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Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349Nusa Cana brings Indonesia back into the rum story

A white rum from Bali is heading over to UK shores, with a mission to remind consumers of Indonesias part in rums long history.

Nusa Cana Rum was created by brand experts Marc Rodrigues, Joe Milner, Andy Gaunt and award-winning bartender Sam Jeveons, with the aim of bringing back one of rums forgotten stories.

Rodrigues has worked for Beam Brands, Constellation Brands and Diageo in Australia and Asia, while British born Jeveons has built up a strong reputation as a leading expert of the Asian bar and cocktail industry. He has had stints working for the Match Bar Group, which includes Trailer Happiness in London, before moving to Asia in 2006.

Rodrigues said: Indonesias part in the story of cane spirits, and therefore rum, is both compelling and valid. We have forgotten that sugar cane originates in SE Asia and was taken from here to the Caribbean and elsewhere. We have forgotten that early explorers visiting what is now Indonesia discovered the locals drinking a distilled sugar cane spirit as far back as the 15th Century, before the word rum was even coined. To bring it back in a serious way, I assembled friends and industry experts from Australia, Asia and the UK to launch Nusa Cana, a tropical island rum with the vision to take the story of Indonesian rum and the Bali lifestyle we love to the rest of the world.

Nusa Cana is made using ancient Indonesian methods: molasses from local sugar cane and forest filtered water are fermented with yeast grown on Javanese red rise, then distilled twice in steel Chinese pot stills before finally being aged in teak casks to five the rum and overall drier finish and blended to create a distinctive but mixable taste.

Jeveons said: Nusa Cana is putting Indonesia firmly back on the rum map. Blended for modern tastes it is a vibrant and fruity white rum full of character. It is great on the rocks, in shots and a fantastic addition to citrus or tropical-led cocktails  it is one for mixing drinks not to keep sitting on the back bar.

Nusa Cana is distributed in the UK through sales, marketing and distribution agency, Craftwork.

Related articles:Owner and four senior managers sentenced to prison over Louisiana military explosives conspiracy

A US court has sentenced five senior personnel of Explo Systems Inc. to between two and five years in prison for a criminal conspiracy involving military explosives. The company, which won a contract for munitions disposal, improperly stored them at the Camp Minden Louisiana National Guard facility. This led to a huge explosion in 2012 that caused the evacuation of the nearby town of Doyline.

Stock image

Explo Systems had won an $8.6 million Army contract in 2010 to disassemble, empty, and recycle 1.35 million propelling charges of the explosive material M6 at Camp Minden. The company then leased an underground bunker and land at Camp Minden where it stored the explosives, much of it in bags in the open, according to state police.



On October 15, 2012, the munitions exploded. The blast shattered windows within a four mile radius, derailed 11 rail cars, and caused the evacuation of the nearby town of Doyline, Louisiana. National Weather Service radar showed a 7,200-foot smoke plume above the site.



Explo Systems filed for bankruptcy in 2013, abandoning 7,800 tons of M6 at Camp Minden. The National Guard subsequently hired another company to remove the leftover waste at a cost of $38 million.



US District Judge Elizabeth Foote ruled that the men misled the Army about their ability to properly dispose of the materials. This included falsifying documents and certificates, and preventing authorities from inspecting their operations.



Explo Systems co-owner David Alan Smith was sentenced to 55 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and a payment of $34,798,761 in restitution to the federal government.



The othersvice president of operations William Terry Wright; program manager Kenneth Wayne Lampkin; traffic and inventory control manager Lionel Wayne Koons; and director of support technology Charles Ferris Callihanwill all serve between 2 and 5 years in prison, paying a combined total of $598,000 in restitution.



All of the defendants pleaded guilty. The second co-owner of Explo Systems, David Fincher, died before the trial could start.



The Environmental Protection Agency joined the US Attorney's Office for the Western District of Louisiana, the Department of Defense, the US Army, the Department of Transportation, the FBI, and Louisiana State Police in bringing the case to court.

Statistics Finland on Friday reported that the countrys output volume grew only by 0.4 per cent from the previous quarter between July and September.

The Finnish economy must re-discover its growth momentum in the fourth quarter if it is to meet expectations and expand by roughly 2.5 per cent year-on-year in 2018, says Timo Vesala, the chief economist at Savings Bank Finland.

The statistical institution also published its revised statistics for the second half of the year, revealing that the volume of the gross domestic product grew by 0.3 per cent quarter-on-quarter and by 2.3 per cent year-on-year between April and June.

Statistics on foreign trade, investment activity and private consumption have similarly begun showing signs of a slowdown.

Finnish exports decreased by 1.8 per cent quarter-on-quarter and 1.3 per cent year-on-year in the third quarter of the year. Investments fell by 1.4 per cent from the previous quarter and 1.0 per cent from the previous year. Private consumption, in turn, decreased by 0.5 per cent from the previous quarter but increased by 0.4 per cent from the corresponding period one year earlier.

The appeal of factors affecting demand evidently became subdued around the halfway point of the year, summarised Vesala. It is particularly concerning that exports have started to decline rather noticeably over the two most recent quarters. Also investments are slowing down.

He also reminded that the slowdown was expected and, as a result, many forecasting agencies may have been excessively optimistic about private consumption.

The pace has slowed down unfortunately also in that respect, and it seems obvious that the expectations that private consumption would increase were overstated, said Vesala.

Jukka Appelqvist, the chief economist at Danske Bank, has similarly voiced his concern about the latest economic statistics.

Exports and industrial investments both decreased, and also private consumption did not develop as positively as one could have assumed amidst an environment of such positive employment and wage developments, he commented.

He pointed out that some forecasting agencies have already had to downgrade their highest forecasts, adding that others will have to follow suit unless the pace picks up.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT

Source: Uusi SuomiThe Green League has thus seen its popularity creep up for two consecutive months, from 12.3 to 12.9 per cent in SeptemberOctober and from 12.9 to 13.6 per cent in OctoberNovember.

The Green League and the Finns Party have both witnessed an up-tick in popular support with no more than some four-and-a-half months to go until the next parliamentary elections, indicates the latest opinion poll commissioned by Alma Media.

The Finns Party, in turn, rebounded with an equal increase of 0.7 percentage points to 8.4 per cent after haemorrhaging support for two consecutive months in polls commissioned by the media company based in Helsinki. The opposition party is consequently polling no more than 0.9 percentage points behind the Left Alliance.

The poll also found that the differences between the three most supported parties have remained largely unchanged, with the Social Democrats polling at 21.4 per cent (-0.6pps), the National Coalition at 19.8 per cent (-0.1pps) and the Centre Party at 15.1 per cent (-0.1pps).

Tietoykkonen interviewed 1,505 people for the poll between 14 and 23 November. Over three-quarters (77.3%) of the people surveyed were able and willing to disclose which party they would vote for if the elections were held today.

The timing of the poll may have had an impact on both the resurgent popularity of the Green League and the hit taken by the Social Democrats, according to Alma Media.

The Green League had had a few weeks to bask in the media limelight following the appointment of its new chairperson, Pekka Haavisto. The Social Democrats, in turn, may have taken a step back after the government and trade unions settled their heated and long-running dispute over means to encourage hiring by small businesses.

The poll also delivered a bit of bad news for the Green League: only 23 per cent of people who would case their vote for the opposition party said they are entirely sure about their party of preference. The corresponding shares were noticeably higher for other parties  47 per cent for the Social Democrats, 59 per cent for the Centre Party and 62 per cent for the National Coalition.

Uncertainty was common particularly among students and low-income people.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT

Source: Uusi SuomiCountry

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Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of ZimbabweNew Zealand wine sales grow in UK despite challenging conditions

New Zealand has emerged as the only major wine producing nation to enjoy volume sales growth in the UK off-trade, according to Nielsen data.

It has enjoyed 6.3% volume growth and 6.6% value growth value growth in the year to October 2018, despite challenging conditions that have seen its rivals falter.

Australia, Italy, Chile and Argentina have all grown value over the past year, but New Zealand is the only one of the UKs top 10 countries of origin to grow in volume.

It has also overtaken Germany and Argentina to become the eighth largest supplier to the UK off-trade by value, as it commands a far higher average price point than any other top 10 country apart from France.

Chris Stroud, marketing manager at New Zealand Winegrowers, urged the trade to attend the generic bodys London tasting at County Hall on January 16.

The New Zealand Annual Tasting in the UK has been going since the 1980s and is the biggest showcase of New Zealand wine globally, he said. The UK is a very strong market for New Zealand and its popularity is not waning as we are celebrating over 20 years of consecutive growth in sales.

This tasting should be a must attend event for anyone with any interest in New Zealand wine.

Next year will mark 200 years since Yorkshireman Samuel Marsden planted the first vines in New Zealand.

To celebrate, the countrys leading winegrowers will pour 400 wines for UK buyers at the big tasting.

Master Sommelier Ronan Sayburn will be shine a light on Marlborough in his seminar Digging Deeper and Rebecca Gibb MW will explore the many faces of Hawkes Bay and Central Otago in separate masterclasses.

New Zealand is primarily known for Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, and it now accounts for 47% of all Sauvignon Blanc sales in the UK (Nielsen), but Stroud pointed out that it has much to offer beyond its flagship grape.

Pinot Noir now accounts for 71% of red wine produced in New Zealand and a bottle of New Zealand red wine fetches 9.43 in the off-trade, over 3 more than any other country.

Related articles:First flown in 1952, the venerable Boeing B-52 could well be the first military aircraft to remain in service for a century.

Were it not for a 32-year-old U.S. Air Force colonel who happened to be an MIT-degreed engineer, the B-52 Stratofortress would have been a Tupolev Tu-95 Bear lookalikea big, sweptwing bomber with four massive turboprops driving eight contrarotating propellers. That was the configuration Boeings engineers had settled on when they proposed to build the B-52. They pitched it to Colonel Pete Warden during an October 1948 meeting at a hotel in Dayton, Ohio, near the development and testing center at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Get rid of those props or your proposal will be rejected, Warden said, in what was in fact an overstepping of his authority. But Warden was a fan of turbojets and realized that despite fuel consumption problems and low power output numbers, jets were the future. He knew Pratt & Whitney was developing the J57 turbojet, which would change aviation history by powering both the Stratofortress and, as the civil JT3D, the 707.

It was a remarkable engine. Pratt had been excluded from jet engine development during World War II, since their piston radials were crucial to the war effort, but they had done enough fiddling on their own to come up with the 10,000-hp T45 turboprop, designed to be easily convertible into a pure jet. That conversion resulted in the J57/JT3D, one of the great turbojet engines of all time. Adding a fan to the J57 produced the TF-33, the low-bypass engine that ushered in the age of the fanjet. The ancient TF-33 would become the B-52Hs engine, today powering the only Stratofortresses that are still flying.

During a weekend thrash, the Boeing engineers reconfigured their proposal. Presented to the Air Force on Monday, the design featured eight turbojets paired in pods hung beneath swept wings. The proposal was buttressed by a silver-painted balsa model carved by Boeing chief aerodynamicist George Schairer. We didnt know what George was up to, one of the engineers later said. While we were running the numbers all weekend, George was off in a corner whittling away on his damn model.



Only Boeings second jet powered design, the YB-52 combined 1940s and 50s technology. (Boeing) Only Boeings second jet powered design, the YB-52 combined 1940s and 50s technology. (Boeing)

The B-52 first flew in April 1952, followed seven months later by the Soviet Tu-95. Both bombers are still in service, but the B-52 is currently scheduled to remain an active part of the U.S. Air Force inventory until 2050. No doubt at least one will continue to fly until April 15, 2052, if only on a ceremonial basis, to potentially make it the first aircraft, military or civil, to stay in active service for a full century.

Dont count out the Bear. The Tu-95 is currently scheduled to remain in service until at least 2040, and if the Russians can find the spare parts to extend that, we have a horse race.

At one point, the Air Force began to doubt there was a need for the long-range, high-altitude B-52 bomber. Perhaps the Stratofortress should be developed purely as a reconnaissance airplanean RB-52leaving the offensive missions to Boeings never-built B-47Z Super Stratojet or a proposed sweptwing, eight-jet version of the Convair B-36. As it turned out, Boeing built 27 RB-52s, but they were basically just B-52Bs with bomb-bay fittings to accept a pressurized recon pod filled with electronics and a pair of lonely operators. Few would ever be flown with recon pods. All 35 B-52Cs were also pod-capable.

Development of the B-52 was a high-risk endeavor. Though the airplane was based in part on the roughly concurrent B-47 medium bomber, it was still an all-new airframe with an all-new engine, its operation dependent in large part on Boeings all-new flying-boom aerial refueling system. Yet incredibly Boeing, using 1940s and early 50s technology and in only its second attempt to actually produce a jet, ended up designing one that nobody has yet been able to beat except in terms of largely useless speed and equally pointless stealth. Not the B-58 Hustler, the XB-70 Valkyrie, the FB-111, the B-1 or the B-2B. All are either out of business or soon will be, while the BUFF (Big Ugly Fat Fer, as its commonly known to its crews) soldiers on. Curtis LeMay famously said of the B-58 Hustler, Its a great airplane, if youre going to war with Canada.

So how did Boeing do it? By building a remarkably light yet simple and durable airframe with an enormous volume of internal space, allowing for continual upgrades through creative electronics, ordnance and equipment improvements. The B-52 began life carrying relatively primitive, high-maintenance, vacuum-tube navigation and bomb-aiming equipment. Some initially flew with no electronics at all, since the equipment was largely useless. Today, the BUFF carries the most sophisticated, computerized, 21st-century military gear available.

A fatal flaw of early B-52sA through D modelswas the airplanes four big alternators. They were driven by turbines spun by engine bleed air and were inside the fuselage, directly under a fuel tank. Relief valves were supposed to vent overpressure in the bleed-air supply, but when they failed the alternators would overspeed and grenade, sending shrapnel into the fuel tank. Three BUFFs exploded in flight before this was corrected by installing straightforward shaft-drive alternators directly on the engines.



The B-52 proved to be a supremely capable conventional bomber. This B-52D displays auxiliary fuel tanks and external pylons loaded with additional bombs. (U.S. Air Force) The B-52 proved to be a supremely capable conventional bomber. This B-52D displays auxiliary fuel tanks and external pylons loaded with additional bombs. (U.S. Air Force)

The B-52 was designed with a minimal rudder and small elevators, perhaps to prevent overstressing a somewhat delicate airframe (the bomber is limited to +2 Gs). The rudder constitutes just 10 percent of the vertical tails total area. Its ability to counter a crosswind is limited, thus the BUFFs castering bicycle main gear: The airplane needs to be landed in a crab in a crosswind. Steerable through 20 degrees to each side, the gear angle is set during the approach. It works just fine, steering down the centerline while the fuselage is pointed at hangar row. B-52 pilots need to get used to landing while looking out the side windows.

Another B-52 unusual attitude is its takeoff performance. The BUFFs wing is mounted at an eight-degree angle of incidence, in order to place the fuselage at a dead-level attitude during high-altitude nuclear dropsthe types original mission. This also obviates the need for rotation on takeoff, which would be difficult with so much low-to-the-ground fuselage aft of the rear main landing gear. When a B-52s up-canted wing generates enough lift for takeoff, the airplane simply levitates, initially climbing out with a slight nose-down attitude. This is the source, perhaps, of the claim that a B-52 doesnt take off, it scares the earth away.

Landings are made equally flat and flare-free. With its huge Fowler flaps deployed, a B-52s attitude on approach is virtually the same as in cruise.

Elevator power didnt become a problem until the B-52G and H went to wet wings rather than fuel cells. The new TF-33 engines spooled up rapidly enough that a firm push on all eight power levers, particularly on takeoff with partial fuel, sloshed the fuel load aft and there wasnt enough elevator power to counteract the resultant nose-up pitch. The horizontal stabilizers were trimmablethe first to be used on an aircraft of this sizebut several B-52s were lost to this flaw when pilots forgot to countertrim in advance against the pitch-up.

The B-52 turned out to be supremely capable in a role for which it was never intended: as a conventional bomber able to drop dumb bombs from high level or low. If not for that capability, the Stratofortress might have gone out of business by the mid-1960s, by which time the Soviets had developed anti-aircraft defensessurface-to-air missiles (SAMs), interceptors, radar and other sensorsthat made penetration of its borders by an enormous, unstealthy, subsonic bomber a fools errand.

As a result, the B-52 went to war for the first time against a tiny Southeast Asian country most Americans had never heard of, dropping World War IIstyle iron bombs on Vietnam and evoking comparisons to killing gnats with a sledgehammer. (B-52s have since seen action over the Balkans, Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria.)

The BUFFs combat debut in June 1965 was as awkward, ineffective and snakebit as that of any American airplane ever. Thirty B-52Fs took off from Guam in 10 three-aircraft cells on the first raid of Operation Arc Light. Twenty-six actually flew the mission, two of which collided while holding for aerial refueling, with the loss of both aircraft and their crews, and a third was lost when it was unable to find its tanker. The Viet Cong knew they were coming and had left for parts unknown.

Strategic Air Command was furious, for Curtis LeMays air force felt the BUFFs belonged to them, and not the USAF. SAC had seen its B-52s modified to carry cruise missiles, most notably the 5-ton, air-breathing Hound Dog, and this kept them in the role of nuclear deterrent. To use their airplane for what was considered close air support was ludicrous, some believed. What a strange role reversal: Tactical F-105 and F-4 fighter-bombers were attacking Hanoi on strategic missions while the worlds finest strategic bomber was flying tactical missions.

Many B-52 strikes over Vietnam were considered matchstick missions, good for nothing but converting jungles to splinters. Still, the North Vietnamese who did find themselves under a rain of 500- and 750-pound bombs found the experience to be terrifying. Each B-52 could carry up to 108 bombs, most of them internally but a substantial portion hung from the two underwing pylons. Each mission was on the one hand stunningly expensivetypically costing $20 million to mountyet on the other performed by machines so completely amortized that the B-52 is one of the all-time weaponry bargains. Today, the B-52 is much like a used car that runs perfectly but is worthless for resale: reliable, cheap, efficient, familiar to both its drivers and maintainers, and with lots of spare parts available.

The B-52s most prominent missions over Vietnam were part of Operation Linebacker II, when the bombers were unleashed for 11 days in December 1972 to crush Hanoi and the seaport of Haiphong. The devastation they wrought convinced the North Vietnamese to return to the negotiating table. Though the North ultimately won the war, at least the negotiations brought Americas POWs home and gave the politicians an excuse to withdraw and abandon South Vietnam to fight on its own.



John Batchelor/All Rights Reserved John Batchelor/All Rights Reserved

Resistance to employing B-52s over Vietnam was initially based on the feeling that having a Stratofort shot down by the primitive North Vietnamese would be a PR disaster. By the time Linebacker II was over, the Air Force had lost 15 to SAMs (though the North Vietnamese claimed at least one fell victim to a MiG-21). Today, Northrop Grumman B-2s suffer a similar problem. Valued at roughly $2 billion apiece, the USAFs 20 stealthy Spirits are simply too expensive to risk in operations against any enemy with sophisticated air defenses. The last of the B-2Bs will be retired by 2030and the crews that deliver them to the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base boneyard may ride home in B-52s. Which is why some call the B-52 the Stratosaurus.

There have been B-52 models ranging from A to H, with plans currently being considered for a B-52J. (The Air Force doesnt use the letter I, since it can be confused with the numeral 1.) But basically, there are two generations of Stratofortresses: the tall-tail B-52A through F, and the bobtail Super BUFF G and H, with a vertical fin a good eight feet shorter, in part as a weight-saving measure. The tall tail also reportedly caused induced turbulence at very low altitudes and reduced stability at high altitudes.

While other manufacturers were working on high-tech B-52 successors, Boeing refined the Stratofort to create the G model, armed with two Hound Dogs. Cruise missiles were an important addition to the B-52s ordnance. Mounted on big external pylons under the wings, they allowed the bomber to stand off and launch its weapons from beyond the reach of SAMs and high-altitude Soviet interceptorsthe weapons that had slammed the door on the BUFFs access to Soviet airspace.

The Hound Dogs could also be fired up for takeoff assist, temporarily turning the B-52 into a 10-engine bomber. Their fuel supply could then be topped off from the BUFFs own tanks.

Remarkably, the G model had both a lower empty weight and substantially higher takeoff weight488,000 pounds, which is not even the most a B-52 can lift but simply the load limit of its landing gear and associated bulkheads.

Following in the propwash of the Boeing B-29 that toted Chuck Yeager and Glamorous Glennis to altitude for their Mach 1 dash, the B-52 enjoyed a storied half-century career as a mothership, carrying and launching a variety of experimental aircraft. Best known of these heavy lifters was NASAs NB-52B Balls Eight, so nicknamed for its tail number, 52-008. Balls Eight and sister ship The High and Mighty One were modified to carry the North American X-15 rocket plane on a pylon outboard of the right wing root and also dropped a variety of other manned and unmanned lifting bodies and rockets.

Today all the early B-52s are gone, boneyarded or crushed for scrap, save for those sent to museums. No B-52Gs are flying either. They were all sacrificed to the provisions of the 1991 Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START), which called for the scrapping of the entire B-52G fleet. This was done at Davis-Monthan, with the Gs clearly guillotined into pieces so that the destruction could be verified by Soviet satellites.

All that remains are 76 B-52Hs. At 240 tons apiece, they are the heaviest bombers of any air force ever to go into production. They have also carried the greatest-ever weapons load over the greatest range, and when a hypersonic cruise missile is finally ready for production, the H will carry it. A B-52H has already launched several scramjet-engine Boeing X-51A Waveriders, at least one of which achieved Mach 5.

The B-52 was the last American bomber to carry gunsfour .50-caliber tail guns, succeeded by a multi-barrel 20mm Vulcan cannon in the B-52H. The Vulcans were removed from all of the Hs during the early 1990s. The tail guns had a limited cone of fire, but BUFF gunners supposedly shot down five MiG-21s over North Vietnam, though only two claims were ultimately confirmed.

Proposals to re-engine the B-52 stretch back to the late 1970s, when Rolls-Royce, Pratt & Whitney and GE suggested replacing its eight turbojets with four more powerful and fuel-efficient RB-211s, PW2000s or CF34s. The Air Force discounted the fuel-efficiency argument, saying that jet fuel was cheap enough that the cost was irrelevant. They forgot to allow for the fact that by the time a gallon of JP-4 is flowing out of a tankers boom, it has cost 15 times its original expense to get it there.

Re-engining a Boeing airliner is relatively easy: Find a carrier that wants Rolls, GE or Pratt engines; do the necessary engineering; flight test and youre good to go. The military poses an entirely different problem: By the time you have convinced Congress to fund the re-engining of a bomber and then jumped through the required bureaucratic hoops, the engine youre finally bolting in place is already two generations old. And bolting far more powerful engines onto a B-52 is not a trivial matter. Losing an individually podded, 60,000-pound-thrust outboard engine on takeoff would require far greater control authority than a Stratofortress vertical tail could currently provide, for one thing. For another, ground-clearance issues would have to be dealt with, as would the added stresses imposed on the wings.



Although Strategic Air Command originally envisioned the B-52 as a strictly nuclear bomber, its operational weaponry ranged from iron bombs to cruise missiles like this conventional AGM-86C being loaded on a B-52H during Operation Allied Force in 1999. (U.S. Air Force) Although Strategic Air Command originally envisioned the B-52 as a strictly nuclear bomber, its operational weaponry ranged from iron bombs to cruise missiles like this conventional AGM-86C being loaded on a B-52H during Operation Allied Force in 1999. (U.S. Air Force)

Americas B-1s and B-2s are boutique bombers: expensive and limited in number. They are undeniably faster and far stealthier than the BUFF, but the B-52 can carry more weapons and is much cheaper and more reliable to operate. The Stratoforts are funded through 2050, at which point they will be anachronisms as baffling as seeing Lafayette Escadrille Spads on a flight line chocked next to F-22s and F-35s today.

The B-52s secret is its flexibility. It has always managed to find a role to play no matter how many times the script is rewritten, whether as a nuclear deterrent, carpet bomber, cruise-missile platform, low-level penetrator, smart-bomb dispenser, close air supporter, Terror of the Taliban or, soon, an arsenal aircraft. And it can still carry nukes. B-52s are like tanks: They do their best work where neither speed nor stealth is required. Once the fast movers establish air superiority, the B-52 can do its job quite comfortably.

The B-52J arsenal aircraft will be a high-capacity magazine, a missile caddy, for its companion F-22s and F-35s. In order to stay stealthy, those fighters wont be able to carry external ordnance. The J, however, will have external stores galore, and will use them to blast a path through enemy defenses for the attack aircraft to follow. The arsenal aircraft will also be able to use those fighters as forward sensors and targeting nodes, so it can do the attacking itself. The big bombers enormous internal capacity will allow it to carry a war rooms worth of moving maps, next-generation avionics and a full suite of radar-jamming electronics plus digital datalinks to all other aircraft in its strike package. Itll also be loaded with Mach 4, fire-and-forget AMRAAMs (advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles), making it in effect an offensively and defensively armed AWACS (airborne warning and control system).

In the words of ex-B-52 command pilot and Aviation History contributing editor Walter Boyne, the B-52 is the single most important aerial weapon ever developed by any air force.Never in the history of modern warfare has a major element of national defense been so long-lived. (Boyne wrote this when the B-52 was a mere 39 years old, not even middle-aged yet.) It is also one of the very few American weapons that has never been provided to any ally.

The BUFF, neither ugly nor fat, will forever stand amid the pantheon of truly great aircraft, its vast wings sheltering the Wright Flyer, DC-3, Spitfire and a few other all-time classics. None, however, will outlive it.

Contributing editor Stephan Wilkinson recommends for further reading: Boeing B-52: A Documentary History, by Walter J. Boyne; B-52 Stratofortress, by Robert F. Dorr and Lindsay Peacock; B-52 Stratofortress, by Bill Yenne; and Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, by Peter E. Davies and Tony Thornborough.

This feature originally appeared in the January 2019 issue of Aviation History. Subscribe here!Hearse, not horses, took former president to lie in state in Capitol

Few Americans lie in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol, an honor steeped in protocol and automatically accorded only presidents, members of Congress, and select military personnel. Others have received the honor by an act of Congress. Former President George H.W. Bush will lie in state in the Capitol Monday evening, December 3, through Wednesday morning, December 5.

The nation has extended the tradition, begun with President Abraham Lincoln in 1865, to 31 individuals, including 11 presidents and four Unknown Soldiers. Procedures and protocols developed for Lincolns funeral have guided many aspects of these rituals. One near-constant has been the catafalque, a platform whose design dates to medieval days, that holds the deceaseds casket for viewing by the public. The rough pine catafalque built for Lincoln and covered with black cloth has seen duty in every presidential funeral since. Two days after an assassin killed President John F. Kennedy, more than 250,000 people filed through the Rotunda. The most recent recipient of the honor, Senator John McCain (R-Arizona) lay in the Rotunda Friday, August 31. Four Americans have lain in honor at the Rotunda: U.S. Capitol Police officers Jacob J. Chestnut and John M. Gibson, gunned down in 1998, civil rights heroine Rosa Parks in 2005, and, earlier this year, the Reverend Billy Graham.

Air Force One, temporarily re-designated Special Air Mission 41, arrived at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland at about 3:25 p.m. Wednesday after flying to Houston Monday morning to transport President Bushs casket to Washington. A military honor guard placed President Bushs flag-draped casket in a hearse to begin its journey to the U.S. Capitol.

Historically, when presidents have lain in state at the Capitol, the deceased has been transported ceremonially past the White House and on to the Capitol by way of Constitution Avenue NW in a horse-drawn caisson. In a break from tradition, the hearse and the line of limousines drove directly to the Capitol, where ceremonial units from all branches of the armed service mustered in precise lines in expectation of the arrival of the funeral party. Inside the Capitol, members of Congress and other dignitaries gathered for a welcoming ceremony in the Rotunda.

In accordance with President Bushs wishes, spelled out in detail long before his death, no funeral cortege marched ahead of the flag-draped casket on a World War I vintage gun carriage designed to carry a 75mm cannon. Nor was there a riderless horse, with a pair of boots inserted backwards in the stirrups, such as was used in previous presidential funerals, so memorably during the procession for slain President Kennedy in 1963. Instead, onlookers including 43rd President George W. Bush, his wife, Laura, and other members of the Bush family watched as the sun set over the plaza and the order Present Arms echoed from unit to unit. A military band placed Hail to the Chief as a 21-gun salute was rendered. A Mighty Fortress Is Our God was played as the pallbearers representing all branches of the armed forces carried the casket up the Capitol steps followed by the family. The casket was placed under the Capitol dome to be guarded through its stay by military personnel facing

inward at the position of order armsstanding at attention with their rifles in their right hands, rifle butts resting on the floor. After the service Monday evening, thousands of mourners are expected to file by the casket between 7:30 p.m. Monday and 7 a.m. Wednesday. President Donald Trump has ordered the lowering of flags at government buildings and military installations to half-staff for 30 days. Many federal agencies will close Wednesday, a national day of mourning.

The official funeral, at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Washington National Cathedral, is expected to draw former presidents and dozens of world leaders. President Bushs remains will return to Texas for a service Thursday in Houston, after which a special train will take the casket to College Station for private burial at the George H.W. Bush Library. A family gravesite already holds the remains of former first lady Barbara Bush and the couples daughter, Pauline Robinson Robin Bush, who died of leukemia in 1953. Nancy Tappan is senior editor of American History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.Subscribing to our services is a three step process. First you have to create an account and then you have to pick if you want to subscribe to digital and or print.

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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.The mayor presented certificates Tuesday to those who participated.

Pittsfield Honors Inaugural Citizens Academy Class



The mayor said the city is likely to hold another academy next year. PITTSFIELD, Mass.  The mayor's office believes the first citizen's academy was a success.

Executive Assistant Catherine Van Bramer headed the effort to connect local residents more closely with city government . The inaugural class attended weekly seminars throughout the summer, meeting with various departments to get a closer look at the depth and breadth of how the municipal government works.

"This academy opened a new door to connect with the residents," Van Bramer said. "Over 10 weeks, 15 participants dedicated their Thursday evenings to learn about the many aspects of municipal government."

The class started meeting with the mayor to give a broad overview of city operations. They then met with department heads in the Police Department, Community Development, Fire Department, Building, Health, Airport, Cultural Development, Public Services, Library, Veterans, Finance, Personnel, and the City Clerk's office.

The department heads of each prepared presentations of their work.

"We know our department heads very much enjoyed this kind of community engagement," Mayor Linda Tyer said.

Van Bramer crafted the program after hearing about such classes being held elsewhere when she attended a Massachusetts Municipal Association conference. She saw it as a way to help increase participation in government and enhance the community's understanding of how services are provided.

Van Bramer didn't know if there would be interest when she first started but was ultimately glad when 15 spots were filled.

Tyer and Van Bramer presented the first class with certificates to recognize their efforts at the start of Tuesday's City Council meeting.

"We will likely run this citizens academy a second time. It was really well received," Tyer said.Drew Zuckerman, 9, lights the menorah on Sunday evening. PreviousNext

North Adams Celebrates Lighting of First Menorah



Mayor Thomas Bernard, Rabbi Rachel Barenblat, Paul Marino and Drew Zuckerman on Sunday. NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  Young Drew Zuckerman confidently climbed the ladder Sunday evening and reached out to take part in a major historical event: lighting the city's first menorah.

"It's time to do something we've never done, that's to celebrate Hanukkah here," the 9-year-old declared, and threw his arms into the air to applause. "To Hanukkah."

The Jewish community has been an integral part of North Adams for more than a century, but not until Sunday, the start of the eight nights of the Festival of Lights, did Hanukkah become part of the city's holiday celebrations.

"It will stand here in the city, a symbol of light in a time of darkness, and as we gaze upon its light, may our hearts be lightened in this year and in years come, may we feel the joy of knowing that this is a city that welcomes all of its inhabitants and celebrates with all of its inhabitants," said Rabbi Rachel Barenblat of Congregation Beth Israel and Drew's mother. "What a tremendous gift this is, what a remarkable place we are in."

Mayor Thomas Bernard said the question had arisen about recognizing Hanukkah. City Hall has had a small menorah in the lobby for a number of years but after speaking with Barenblat about what would be appropriate, the decision made to order a large public menorah.

"This is the first and we didn't know what to expect and I was thrilled with the turnout and the energy," he said.

Some three dozen people attended the lighting at Dr. Arthur O. Rosenthal Square near City Hall. Local historian Paul Marino described it as a "major historic event."

The smaller Jewish community had been respectable but looked down upon, he said, but it was the House of Israel, the precursor to Beth Israel, that had been the first to "extend the hand of community friendship" to the Methodists when their church burned down in 1929. Not the Baptists, nor the Catholics, nor the Episcopalians, but rather the temple had offered its sanctuary for as long as the Methodists needed it.

"This is the very first time ever that North Adams is coming together as a community in saying to its Jewish population, 'you are our neighbors, you are our friends and we are so happy and proud of that fact that in the middle of celebrating our holiday, Christmas, we want to help you celebrate your holiday, Hanukkah."

Christmas celebrations can be somewhat overwhelming, said Barenblat. "It's easy to feel like people don't see us ... having this menorah right here in the middle of town says to me, North Adams cares about the Jewish community and wants us to feel welcome."

Hanukkah is not a major Jewish holiday although it has become more prominent because of its proximity to Christmas. It marks the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after a revolt led by the Macabees against Seleucid Empire control around 165 B.C.E. The legend is that there was only enough oil to light the menorah for one day but it lasted eight. There are nine candles on a menorah, including one to light the others. Each night during Hanukkah, one candle is lit.

"It is a holiday about light in the darkness and hope even when it seems all hope should be lost and I think that resonates with our neighbors of other faiths as well," the rabbi said.

The congregation's President Christina Kelly thanked the mayor and said the event was "very meaningful to our community."

"I feel like we've gotten a lot of support from the wider community with all the anti-Semitism that's been happening around the country and the world," she said. "It just means so much that we have the support of those who are not Jewish."US: UN Cannot Take Away Jerusalem

The Fellowship | December 3, 2018 US: UN Cannot Take Away Jerusalem

This year, the United States affirmed its friendship with Israel by recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of the Jewish state. However, the United Nations still will not recognize the Jewish peoples eternal Holy City. But Israel Hayom tells us that both Donald Trump and the American Ambassador to Israel has reaffirmed this recognition on Hanukkah:

U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman lambasted the United Nations on Monday over its anti-Israel bias, using the occasion of Hanukkah to highlight Israels legitimate claim to Jerusalem.

Friedman, the first U.S. envoy to serve in the recently opened embassy in Jerusalem, tweeted: More than 2,000 years ago, Jewish patriots (Maccabees) captured Jerusalem, purified the Holy Temple and rededicated it as a house of Jewish worship. The U.N. cant vote away the facts: Jerusalem is the ancient and modern capital of Israel. Happy Hanukkah from this blessed city!

Friedman, who is Jewish, is among U.S. President Donald Trumps close associates and is considered very pro-Israel. He served as Trumps adviser on Israeli-related matters during his presidential campaign

On Sunday, Trump sent out a Hanukkah greeting in which he vowed to defend the Jews and their traditions. Melania and I send our warmest greetings to our Jewish brothers and sisters in the United States, in Israel, and around the world celebrating Hanukkah, Trump wrote.

For eight nights, Jewish families and friends will come together to engage in the lighting of the menorah. This special tradition started more than 2,000 years ago during the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, which followed a trying period when Jews were persecuted for practicing their faith.Arsenal will be hoping to preserve their unbeaten streak when they visit Manchester United at Old Trafford on Wednesday in the domestic league. Their Old Trafford ground seems to have lost the fear factor associated with it as they have been struggling badly there.

They have won only four of their 10 matches at Old Trafford this term in all competitions, the various uninspiring result including a 3-0 drubbing by Tottenham, the Carabao Cup elimination by Frank Lampards Derby County and 269 minutes without a Champions League goal.

As a result of these inconsistencies and their inability to keep a clean sheet until recently when they recorded their first back to back match without conceding, we back the encountered to produce over 2.5 goals.The opposition Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) campaign has said debunked reports that its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar cant travel to the U.S.

The party said the smear campaign is allegedly being sponsored by the Muhammadu Buhari Presidency against its candidate, noting that to tarnish Atikus image.

PDP says the presidency has abandoned its statutory duties and turned itself into a lying, monitoring spirit on Atiku and his movement. In a statement by the party on Sunday, said Buharis excess focus on Atiku, has caused him to sponsor fabrications in a section of the media.

See full statementBabajide Sanwo-Olu, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos state, has dismissed suggestions that he is suffering from mental illness.

The APC governorship candidate made the clarification during a chat with some persons on Twitter on Sunday, December 2, as part of his campaign ahead of the 2019 Lagos state governorship election.

During the chat session, a Twitter user with the handle @Frizzy asked: Is it true that youre mad, Sir?

In reply, Sanwo-Olu said:

I can guarantee you Im not, Sir. 

See the chat between Sanwo-Olu and the Twitter user below:President Muhammadu Buhari during the 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), otherwise known as COP24, in Poland, answered the question, whether he is, Jubril from Sudan or the real Buhari.

In his response to the question of being cloned, Buhari said; A lot of people hoped that I died during my ill health. It is real me I will soon celebrate my 76th birthday and I will still go strong. Osinbajo, even he had to deal with the rumours  Some people reached out to him to consider them to be his Vice President because they assumed I was dead.

The Jubril subject has been a serious source of debate among Nigerians  As some, have called on the government to clear the controversies concerning the subject.

We took a look at Twitter, and heres are the opinions of some Nigerian Twitter users on the issue of Buhari having a double from Sudan, now ruling in his stead.

See reactions

Not true

The 'Jubril of Sudan' narrative does not in anyway help our cause to send PMB back to Daura. It actually solidifies the notion that hatred for PMB has driven some people into near lunacy & unexplainable Stupidity. Let's end this now~I'll block any MF that propagates it on my TL  Prof Stanley Nwabia (@MrStanleyNwabia) November 26, 2018

I have thus far refrained from talking about Jubril al-Sudani, because it is bunkum, and I was quite glad that @MBuhari had also ignored it, or, appeared to have. Until yesterday. Now he has spoken, and the cat has been set amongst the pigeons as it were.  Chxta (@Chxta) December 3, 2018

Nnamdi Kanu created many idiots in Nigeria. Those who believed that @MBuhari was replaced by one Jubril from Sudan became voluntary idiots. If you believe a PRESIDENT can die in LONDON and the corpse smuggled out; then , it is clear your cerebral gyri may not be complete.  Adebodun FaKayode (@drdebodun) December 3, 2018

Not literately

https://twitter.com/Ambrosia_Ijebu/status/1069477108278325248

Its a PDP propaganda

https://twitter.com/miss_ayomide/status/1069500512523948032

Oh yes! He is Jubril

Here we have a supposed old man between 76-85 yrs that suddenly switched his writing hand from left to right. Could the @AsoRock handlers of Jubril clarify this mix-up? We are patiently waiting for answers and I believe millions of people deserve an explanation.@NGRPresident pic.twitter.com/y0o63ApY5I  Mazi Nnamdi Kanu (@MaziNnamdiKanu) November 25, 2018

What do you think? Drop your comment here in the section belowVanguard

Ibadan HUNTERS Association in the South West zone of the country has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to involve them in the fight against Boko Haram insurgents in the North East.

ThisDay

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has faulted the call by the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Prince Uche Secondus, for the resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Yakubu Mahmoud, and the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Idris Ibrahim.

The Sun

The Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed that 214 new cases of Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) was reported from across states in Nigeria, except in Anambra State.

Guardian

Buhari, who was in the country for the Conference of the Parties (COP24) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), described the rumour as ignorant and irreligious.

Daily Times

To further consolidate its campaign strategies, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar has appointed three youths and a woman as aides.

Daily Trust

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) said it has traced property worth N500 million to former Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang.

LeadershipSon-in-law of Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State, Uche Nwosu, some aides and members of the State House of Assembly dumped the All Progressives Congress, APC, for the Democratic Peoples Party, DPP, a few days ago.

Mr Nwosu, left the ruling party after failing to emerge as its governorship candidate, although his father-in-law, Okorocha had put up a good fight with the National Working Committee.

Although, Nwosu marched out of the party, it appears he is still an ardent supporter of the APCs presidential candidate, president Muhammadu Buhari, if the content of the above billboard is anything to go by.

Meanwhile, his father in-law,during a media parley in Owerri recently, said Nwosu has his full support no matter what platform he runs on. he described Senator Hope Uzodinmas emergence as the APC guber candidate for the state, as the worst imposition in Nigerian political history.

As for president Buhari, Okorocha assured him of his supports to coast victory in the coming presidential election.Director-general of the president Muhammadu campaign organisation, Festus Keyamo(SAN) has said the only way the Peoples Democratic party(PDP) can be at peace with any chairman of the Independent national Electoral Commission(INEC) is if, the chairman is from PDP.

Keyamo said this, while reacting to report by the PDP that the Inspector General of Police, IGP Ibrahim Idris and Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, should resign, ahead of the next general elections.

According to the Buhari campaign DG, while speaking via Twitter on Monday, the PDP, then the ruling party in 2015, lost faith in INEC Chairman that was appointed by them  And the party is also doing the same for the forthcoming 2019 elections.

In his words:

Before 2015 elections, PDP (as ruling party) lost faith in INEC Chairman they appointed themselves. Now, before the 2019 elections, the same PDP says they have lost faith in a new INEC Chairman. I guess whatll satisfy them is when d PDP National Chairman becomes d INEC Chairman

See tweetPresidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic party(PDP), Atiku Abubakar kicked off his campaign today in Sokoto state. The former vice president, who would be locking horns with the incumbent president, Muhammadu Buhari in the forthcoming presidential election, was welcomed by a huge cheering crowd.

Atiku, who hopes to get Nigeria working, if he wins the 2019 presidential election, has expressed optimism, that he would coast victory come 2019.

Speaking at the campaign rally, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara said Atiku, the coming election in 2019 is about the future of our younger generations. Today, we have a man that can put food on our table and make life better. We must all work hard and vote out the failed government of All Progressives Congress(APC) in 2019.

More photosSmall Doctor, whose real name is Adekunle Temitope was today arrested by the Lagos State Police Command has arrested Adekunle Temitope, for unlawfully possessing firearms and allegedly threatening to shoot a police officer.

The incidence was confirmed by Edgal Imohimi, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, while speaking to the press on Monday in Lagos, as he paraded Small Doctor alongside three other persons.

The police boss stated that the musician was arrestedalong Oshodi, Lagos, on allegations that he threatened a Police officer who was on traffic duty.

More details to followArsenal unbeaten streak stretched to 15 across all competitions with their victory over Tottenham at the Wembley stadium yesterday during their domestic league clash. The Gunners had to come back from a goal down in the second half to emerge victorious by beating Spurs 4-2.

The now sit in fourth on the league table at the end of match day 14 on the same points with Tottenham but as a result of their superior goal difference.

Gunners defender,Shkodran Mustafi, who has been an integral part of Arsenal team since he moved to London from the German Bundesliga has been reveling in the victory.

The German took to his twitter handle at the end of the clash to celebrate the victory by saying North London is Red.

What he said:

https://twitter.com/MustafiOfficial/status/1069265338297171969Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai,has revealed that the army is yet to access the $1 billion approved by the Federal Government for procurement of arms to fight the raging Boko Haram insurgency in the North East.

Speaking to newsmen in Maiduguri on Sunday, Buratai said you know the process of funding is another major issue. The bureaucracy and so on is (are) another issue. Approvals are given but before you really get the money out is another challenge.

So, the people are talking or the media have been talking of $1 billion that has been approved but I tell you up till today, the fund that is supposed to come from that amount to the army in particular, is still in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Reacting to the revelation, immediate past governof Ekiti state, Ayo Fayose rcalled how he kicked against the Federal Government decision to withdraw $1bn from the Excess Crude Account to fund the fight against Boko Haram. In a post via his Twitter account on Sunday, fayose is therefore asking for the $1bn.

He wrote:

12 months ago, I kicked against the FG decision to withdraw $1bn from the Excess Crude Account to fund the fight against Boko Haram. Three days ago, the military said it was yet to receive the $1bn. So I ask, where is the money? May God save our country.

See tweet5G is the next major milestone for the major wireless carriers in the United States, and they all have their sights set on a wide launch for the network technology in 2019.

Having a network is certainly important, especially with wide availability as quickly as possible, but that only matters so much if there arent phones to take advantage of that improved network. Verizon is starting to straighten out the details here, too, as the big red wireless carrier has just announced that it will be teaming up with Samsung to offer up at least one 5G-enabled smartphone in the first half of 2019.

As one might expect, the details are light. We do know that the unnamed Samsung smartphone will take advantage of Qualcomms Snapdragon Mobile Platform, and that it will have an X50 5G NR modem underneath the hood. And Verizon says that the new smartphone will launch in the first half of 2019, but wont go into any detail in that regard. The network expects its 5G rollout to kick off in early 2019, and expand quite quickly after that.

Verizon and Samsung announced their plan to bring one of the first commercial 5G smartphones to market in the first half of 2019. The companies will unveil a proof of concept, powered by the upcoming flagship Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile Platform with the Snapdragon X50 5G NR modem and antenna modules with integrated RF transceiver, RF front-end and antenna elements, at the annual Qualcomm Snapdragon Technology Summit in Maui this week. This is the result of years of collaboration to deploy an end-to-end solution for commercial 5G services using Samsung network equipment and personal devices.

This announcement comes at a time when were hearing that Apple is planning on waiting to launch its first 5G-capable smartphone until 2020. The company has never been all that beholden to network technologies, as it hasnt aimed to be first in adoption of 3G or 4G LTE in the past, so its not surprising to hear the company wont be racing out of the gate to support 5G, either. Will a lead by companies like Samsung this time actually matter? Some think it will, if for no other reason than 5G is a significant network improvement.

And which device is Samsung likely going to launch with 5G connectivity? Word on the street is that its going to be a specific variant of the upcoming flagship, the Galaxy S10.

There is always the possibility that 5G wont have a smooth rollout, though. And its hard to argue that by 2020, when Apple is rumored to launch its first 5G iPhone, the network technology will be more widely available and stable.

What do you think? Should Apple wait until 2020, or should the company be trying to support 5G as soon as possible  like in 2019?

[via Android BeatThe cultural exchange in Ho Chi Minh city (Source: VNA)

The delegates and 500 young people from Ho Chi Minh city enjoyed cultural exchange showing the specific culture of each country. They will take part in a range of cultural exchange activities, visit schools, interact with the citys students and youths and live with local residents to experience the daily life of Vietnamese families until December 5th.

The SSEAYP is an annual youth exchange program sponsored by the Japanese Government and supported by the members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) since 1974, during which participants have an opportunity to live together on board the Nippon Maru Ship for over 50 days.

It aims to promote friendship among the youth of participating countries, broaden their perspectives of the world and strengthen their spirit and skills for international cooperation./.CMH Mardan Cantt Jobs 2019 for Medical Asst & Labor

Latest Combined Military Hospital CMH Medical Posts Mardan 2021 Combined Military Hospital CMH Mardan Cantt, Pakistan Army, Government of Pakistan required applications from experienced candidates for the posts of Medical Assistant, Sanitary Worker, Labor.

Skills Required Medical

How to Apply on Combined Military Hospital CMH 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 an employer asks to pay money for any purpose, do not pay at all and report us at contact us form. Apply as per instuctions & dates mentioned in official job ad. Govt jobs may not be applied online here. Human typing error is possible. Error & omissions excepted.POL Hospital Attock Jobs 2019 for Female Staff Nurses

Latest Pakistan Oilfields Ltd Medical Posts Attock 2021 POL Hospital District Attock, Pakistan Oilfields Limited, Pakistan required applications from experienced and motivated candidates to fill the posts of Female Staff Nurses.

Skills Required Medical

How to Apply on Pakistan Oilfields Ltd 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 an employer asks to pay money for any purpose, do not pay at all and report us at contact us form. Apply as per instuctions & dates mentioned in official job ad. Govt jobs may not be applied online here. Human typing error is possible. Error & omissions excepted.Ambassador Tuyen with members of the Turkey - Vietnam Business Council (Photo: VOV)





From November 26-28, Vietnamese Ambassador to Turkey Tran Quang Tuyen paid a working visit to Istanbul to reinforce and promote relationships with Turkish businesses, and increase investment attraction among these businesses.

Meeting with over 10 businesses that intend to invest in Vietnam in energy, construction, trade, exhibition, telecommunications, real estate, interior and health equipment, on November 26th, the Vietnamese Ambassador expressed his thanks to the Turkey - Vietnam Business Council and its member businesses for promoting bilateral economics and trade relationship, especially its contributions to the success of the Vietnam - Turkey Business and Investment Forum during the Vietnamese National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngans visit to Turkey in October.



According to Mr. Tuyen, the two-way trade turnover rapidly increased recent years, multiplying 13 times and reaching nearly USD3 billion in 2017.

Adding that the Vietnamese Government will always stand side by side with foreign investors by creating most favourable business environment, the Vietnamese Ambassador said he hoped that Turkey will come to Vietnam for experience and have more profound understanding about the domestic businesses environment, thus pouring investment in different areas, especially in infrastructure, sustainable development, green energy, public health, tourism and high technology.

During the meeting, Turkish businesses said that Vietnam is a large market with great potential, and it is also a central destination for them to go further to other East Asian markets.

Working with Travelshop business working in the tourism sector and Repkaucuk business working in the rubber industry and Turkish Airlines on November 27th-28th, Ambassador Tuyen confirmed that the Vietnamese Embassy in Turkey will be willing to work with travel agencies in promote the two countries attractive destinations.

Bilal Eksi, Turkish Airlines General Director, said that the group plans to double the number of flight from Istanbul to Ho Chi Minh city and Hanoi, from 7 to 14 per week by next September and to 28 flights per week in the near future.

He also expressed his hope to cooperate with Vietnam Airlines for flights to Europe./.The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut Oleg KononenkoAe and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily!

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Today

Mainly sunny. High around 55F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low 36F. Winds light and variable.Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc receives

Foreign Minister of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) Ri Yong-ho (L)



He discussed with FM Ri Yong-ho the Doi Moi (Renewal) policy of Vietnam and measures to carry out the policy under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) over the past more than three decades, including the building of the socialist-oriented market economy and improvement of the peoples living conditions.

Vietnam stays ready to share experience with the DPRK in the expansion of external economic ties, investment attraction and tourism development, he told his guest.

Regarding the Korean peninsula issue, the Vietnamese government leader hailed the positive developments on the Korean Peninsula, particularly the outcomes of summits between the DPRK and the US and the Republic of Korea (RoK) in the recent past. He said he hopes that the DPRK and concerned parties will take full advantage of opportunities for dialogue and be flexible in realizing reached agreements so as to achieve substantial progress in the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

PM Phuc emphasized that Vietnam is ready to make active contributions to the dialogue process between the DPRK and related parties.

For his part, FM Ri Yong-ho affirmed the consistent stance of the Party and Government of the DPRK on continuing to consolidate and develop the traditional friendship with Vietnam, which is a valuable asset fostered by President Kim Il-sung and President Ho Chi Minh.



He assured his nations wish to intensify exchanges and cooperation with Vietnam in fields that meet each sides needs and strength and in conformity with the development trend of the new situation.



The FM said the DPK is exerting more efforts to popularise the new strategic guideline set by President Kim Jong-un and adopted by the 3rd meeting of the 7th Central Committee of the Workers Party of Korea with a major focus on economic development.

In order to build a peaceful environment for economic development, President Kim Jong-un has recently step up external activities with related countries, the diplomat emphasized.

He also informed PM Phuc on the positive outcomes of his talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh, including specific measures to enhance bilateral traditional friendship in the coming time.

He wished the Vietnamese people greater achievements in carrying out the guidelines of the 12th Party National Congress./.



Scenes from tvN's new fantasy drama "Memories of the Alhambra" / Courtesy of CJ ENM



By Park Jin-hai



In tvN's new fantasy romance "Memories of the Alhambra," players wearing smart lenses, a fictional augmented reality (AR) gaming device, see the city around them turn into a fantasy gaming world.



Once you log in, the cobblestone streets seem real and you are on a mission to find a weapon hidden within the city of Granada, Spain.



The AR gaming craze, which took off with the popular "Pokemon Go" in 2016, is now a technology people can find easily in many games. "Memories," starring hallyu stars Hyun Bin and Park Shin-hye, makes use of this widely available gaming technology for its much anticipated fantasy romance drama.



It is penned by Song Jae-jung, who went back and forth between the real world and the webtoon world in her previous work "W," and directed by Ahn Gil-ho of award-winning thriller "Stranger." The new weekend drama tells the story of Yoo Jin-woo, an investment company CEO played by Hyun, who goes on a business trip to Granada to meet game developer Jung Se-ju. He happens to meet Jung Hee-ju, the developer's elder sister and his legal representative.



The first episode, which premiered Saturday, opens with the fleeing Se-ju boarding a train bound for Granada. Yet suddenly the sky darkens with storm clouds and someone shoots at him. But when the train arrives in Granada it bears no traces of bullet holes or the programmer, and only his backpack is left behind. The rest of the episode shows Yoo playing the demo game and finding how enchanting and realistic the AR gaming world can be.



Although the drama has all the potential to become a hit, with its AR gaming story, big name hallyu stars and the acclaimed writer and director duo, there have been initial worries how drama fans of diverse age groups will react to this unconventional format. MBC's much-hyped "Dunia: Into a New World" introduced viewers to a virtual world setting, but exited with low viewership. Given the shorter production time of TV dramas compared with film, fans have criticized its rushed computer graphics.



Defying all those concerns, "Memories" succeeded in its first two episodes in inviting drama aficionados into the experimental world of AR with high-end computer graphics, cinematography and fast-paced storytelling.

The most interesting point of the drama has been that the AR gaming world has been depicted so realistically, suggesting the technology will be possible in the not too distant future.



Director Ahn said he made the show imagining what could become reality in the near future. "Though the show depicts a more exaggerated picture than reality, I tried my best to make it more realistic by imagining what we feature in the show might become reality in the near future," he said during a recent press conference.



Its first episode, reflecting all the attention it has received, posted a 7.5 percent viewer rating, the third-highest opening record for its broadcaster, following "Encounter" at 9.4 percent and "Mr. Sunshine" at 8.5 percent.



The second episode finished with Yoo on the same train dodging bullets. Yoo narrated that "For the future I predicted to Hee-ju a year ago, I was right about half of it and I was completely wrong about the other half," leaving viewers curious what has happened in the year since he painted a rosy picture imagining what the AR game can bring.



Hyundai Motor and Hyundai Capital operate ride-sharing app, "Delivery Car." Courtesy of Hyundai Capital



Auto group eyes ASEAN mobility starting in Singapore



By Park Hyong-ki



Hyundai Motor could consider getting Hyundai Capital to set up an auto credit financing unit in Vietnam as part of its long-term expansion strategy in Southeast Asia, according to the country's largest automaker.



This comes after the Hyundai Motor Group launched a joint venture with Vietnam's Thanh Cong Group early 2018.



As seen in previous Hyundai cases, Hyundai Capital has followed Hyundai Motor globally in places where the auto giant has been expanding such as Brazil, the United Kingdom, China and the United States.



Hyundai Capital has entered these markets as a wholly-owned entity or as a joint venture  in the U.K., it set up one with Santander Consumer.



Also, Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors announced Nov. 7 that they will invest $250 million in Grab, a Singapore-based ride-sharing platform. In January, Hyundai Motor invested $25 million in Grab, which is Southeast Asia's biggest ride-hailing tech company.



"In this sense, we could have Hyundai Capital set up its base in Vietnam after Hyundai Motor builds its brand there, like it did in other countries," said a Hyundai Motor spokesman.



"Given the company's nascent stage in Singapore, Hyundai Motor and Hyundai Capital are not yet ready to establish their regional bases there."



The car company has a dealer in Singapore, he noted.



But he added it would be a challenge to build the Hyundai and Kia brands in Singapore or other Southeast Asian markets as Japanese automakers hold more than an 80 percent market share.



A person familiar with the situation said Hyundai Capital is considering dispatching one of its employees to Singapore in January 2019 to "open a representative office and study the Southeast Asian market."





Grab's Hyundai Ioniq EV. Courtesy of Hyundai MotorArdian, one of Europe's largest private equity investment firms, said Monday it has opened an office in South Korea as part of its global expansion strategy.



The branch, located in central Seoul, will tap into the growing appetite for its funds and private-equity by Korean investors, according to the firm.



It is the Paris-based firm's fourth office in Asia, after Singapore, Beijing and Tokyo, the company said, noting that the advance into the South Korean market will serve as a "major growth opportunity."



Ardian has $82 billion in assets across the globe with around 10 offices across Europe and the United States. (Yonhap)





By Jhoo Dong-chan







Hanwha Life executive Kim Dong-won, the group Chairman Kim Seung-youn's second son, has been appointed head of the insurer's innovation and overseas operations.







Kim has been head of Hanwha Life's fintech and innovation center since 2016, and industry insiders say the promotion shows that the group's succession process is underway as Kim's brother, Dong-kwan, is also involved in key businesses.







Hanwha Life created four new departments in the insurer's latest reshuffle. Of them, the firm said the second son will head two  the overseas and innovation units.







"Kim will be in charge of creating new business opportunities and expanding overseas networks. They are Hanwha Life's key businesses establishing the firm's future growth engines," a Hanwha Life official said.







A graduate of Yale University, Kim joined Hanwha Advanced Materials Corp. in March, 2014. He was then transferred to the group's planning division to supervise its fintech business.







In August 2015, he joined Hanwha Life, and was promoted to head of the fintech department in April 2016.







Kim is said to have contributed to Hanwha Life's efforts in merging IT into traditional insurance business. He has also been very active in creating business opportunities by forming partnerships with Chinese firms.







Under Kim's leadership, the insurer established a joint venture with Chinese peer-to-peer lender Dianrong in the fintech business in February 2016.







He has participated in the Boao Forum, which is also known as the "Davos Forum of Asia," as one of the nation's young leaders for years.















By Jung Min-ho







A Korean tourist in Myanmar has been missing for 10 days after being swept away in a swift current.





According to Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Myanmar's media reports, the tourist, 45, surnamed Heo, went missing on Nov. 21 while floating on inner tubes in the Namtu River.





She was on a group tour at Hsipaw Township, Shan State, with four other travelers and a local guide.





Citing witnesses, a police sergeant said Heo suddenly "disappeared beneath the water." An Italian man tried to rescue her multiple times but to no avail.





The guide told police that he had suggested several times that all tourists wear lifejackets, but Heo refused.





"The water surface is rough in that river as there are hard-to-see rocks in the riverbed that cause unexpected waves," the police sergeant said.





Local police and tour agency employees have been searching for her since.





According to the Tourism Ministry's website, foreigners are not allowed to travel outside the Hsipaw downtown. But tour agencies offer travel to restricted areas such as the Namtu River and the Nam Hu Nwe waterfall.





In a bid to attract more tourists from Asia, Myanmar recently started offering visa-free travel to tourists from South Korean, Japan, Hong Kong and Macau.



By Yi Whan-woo



North Korea took a low-key approach last week to the first anniversary of what it claimed was the country's completion of its nuclear armament.



Analysts and officials speculated that Pyongyang is trying to keep dialogue on course following leader Kim Jong-un's summits with South Korean President Moon Jae-in and U.S. President Donald Trump this year.



On Nov. 29 last year, Kim's regime said it had completed the development of "the state nuclear force," after test-firing the "Hwasong-15" intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).



It was believed to be capable of striking the continental U.S. and the announcement escalated tensions on the Korean Peninsula.



A year later, however, there was no anniversary celebration.



The official Rodong Sinmun newspaper did not publish any articles on ICBMs and also refrained from criticizing the U.S.



Its front page was filled with economic stories while most of the other pages were also about the economy and technology.



The only article about the U.S. was a commentary criticizing the U.S. and South Korea for joining a United Nations resolution on Pyongyang's human rights record.



Only a propaganda website mentioned the November 2017 nuclear armament declaration.



"November's epochal event, which elevated the DPRK's strategic status higher, put a final end to the history of imperialist aggression and nuclear threats and enabled our people to focus all strength on building a socialist economy," it said.



It said the North's demonstration of its power led to sweeping changes in the situation on the Korean Peninsula, such as three inter-Korean summits and the first summit between the North and the U.S.



The outlet also said no sanctions or pressure on the North will work.



Pyongyang has not carried out any missile or nuclear tests since November last year.



Kim offered talks with South Korea in his New Year's address, and the South forged ahead with his charm offensive.



Meanwhile, denuclearization negotiations between Washington and Pyongyang have stalled as the North wants a reward from the U.S.



It wants sanctions relief for the steps it has taken so far, such as blowing up its nuclear testing site. But the U.S. wants Pyongyang to take more denuclearization measures.



The U.S. also has been stepping up pressure on the North over its human rights situation.



On Nov. 29, Trump blacklisted North Korea again for human trafficking and extended a symbolic ban on U.S. funding to the regime for another year.



The designation bans the U.S. government from providing "non-humanitarian, nontrade-related assistance" to those governments for fiscal year 2019, until they comply with the act's minimum standards or "make significant efforts to bring themselves into compliance" with the act.



In the case of North Korea, Eritrea, Russia and Syria, the U.S. will also not provide funding for participation in educational and cultural exchange programs by officials or employees of their governments.



In June, the U.S. State Department designated North Korea as one of the worst human trafficking nations for the 16th consecutive year, citing the regime's use of forced labor.

Workers discuss a project at a rock-drilling tools factory in Pyongyang in this photo taken in April. More North Koreans, especially Pyongyang's upper class, are seeking work abroad despite sanctions on the North. / Korea Times file



By Yi Whan-woo



More North Koreans, including Pyongyang's upper class, are seeking jobs outside the country amid prolonged international sanctions on the North, according to sources.



The move is expected to stir controversy because the sanctions prohibit the export of North Korean labor.



Against this backdrop, North Koreans are even willing to take menial jobs in China and Russia that are not detectable by the United Nations and the West.



"The people are looking to enhance their careers by becoming cooks, waiters, tailors or construction workers abroad," a source told Radio Free Asia (RFA) recently. "They think they will be able to make more money overseas."



The screening process is strict because authorities only send those who are loyal to the regime.



"People who want to go abroad for work have to go through a very strict selection process, so the authorities mainly choose residents of Pyongyang, because their backgrounds have already been verified," the source said.



It said many living in Pyongyang are loyal to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Among them are members of the ruling Workers' Party, the country's main youth league and housewives.



The source said younger generations are especially interested in finding jobs abroad.



"Factories under the jurisdiction of the External Construction Bureau are the most popular, because factory workers are a big priority abroad," it said, adding the hopeful workers are even willing to pay bribes.



The preferred jobs are cooks, waiters and tailors because they get paid $150 a month, which is much more than other overseas jobs.



"Even though the Kim regime takes its cut, they will still be making more money than ordinary people, so everyone wants to do it," the source said.



Another source said the people are interested in working abroad because learning a foreign language is becoming a trend.



"The Pyongyang citizens are taking classes at Pyongyang University of Foreign Studies and the library or even taking private lesions," the source said.



In December 2017, the U.N. Security Council approved sanctions aimed at depriving the Kim Jong-un regime of $500 million a year from the wages of an estimated 93,000 North Koreans working overseas.



The measures are to prevent the flow of foreign cash into the North for its nuclear program. The sanctions also call for a freeze on new work permits and require host countries to send North Korean workers back by the end of 2019.



More North Koreans are still seeking jobs abroad as relations with China are warming, a third source said.



"There are more and more brokers appearing to help place people, in exchange for a fee, so the authorities are trying to find ways to regulate illegal activities like this," the source said.



"However, the whole operation is dependent on bribes pocketed by officials, so there's no way that we can expect the government to do anything about it."





By Jung Min-ho







Police are clamping down on seatbelt violations throughout this month.





As announced in September, police across the country have started an intense crackdown on drivers who violate the new seatbelt rule.





On Sept. 28, an enforcement ordinance came into force to require all car passengers to wear seatbelts on all roads.





A driver will be fined 30,000 won ($27) if any passenger does not wear a seatbelt. If a rule violator is 13 or younger, the fine will be 60,000 won. Passengers six or younger have to be in protective seating.

At the MoU signing ceremony (Photo: VGP)





Recently, Vietnamese Minister of Labor, War-Invalids and Social Affairs Dao Ngoc Dung and Romanian Minister of Labor and Social Justice Marius Constatin Budai signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on labour and social welfare cooperation which will last five years.

Under the MoU, the two sides commit to expand bilateral cooperation in labour, employment and social welfare for joint benefit.

According to the Vietnamese Minister, Romania is a potential market for Vietnamese as it has great demand for laborers in industries and income suitable for them.

The Vietnamese Ministry will urge the Overseas Labor Management Department to instruct labor export businesses to select skilled ones for sending to Romania, said Mr. Dung. Romania has high demand for labourers working in welding, construction, production and processing of agricultural products.

Vietnamese laborers in Romania will enjoy good working environment and salary of USD600-1,200 per month.

Around 100 Vietnamese guest laborers were sent to Romania each year between 2008 and 2016. The figure rose from 800 in 2017 to 1,400 during the eleven months of 2018./.The flags of Argentina, right, and South Korea flutter atop the plane carrying South Korea's President Moon Jae-in on his arrival to the Ministro Pistarini international airport for the G20 Summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina. AP



South Korea and Argentina have agreed to exchange visits by their young citizens as part of a work and pay program, Seoul's foreign ministry said Monday.



The two sides signed the "working holiday" agreement last week, which allows South Koreans, aged 18-30, to work, study and travel in Argentina for up to a year. The yearly quote is 200. Argentine youth will be able to do so in South Korea as well.



The accord was signed by Argentine Foreign Minister Jorge Faurie and Seoul's Ambassador to Buenos Aires, Lim Ki-mo, on Tuesday (local time). It's to take effect 60 days after the signing.



South Korea has working holiday agreements with a total of 23 countries. As of 2017, around 40,000 South Koreans had benefited from the program. (Yonhap)Park Byong-dae, left, and Ko Young-han / Yonhap



Prosecutors filed for arrest warrants for two former Supreme Court justices on Monday over their alleged involvement in the ballooning power abuse case involving previous top court leadership.



The Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office requested the writs against Ko Young-han and Park Byong-dae, it said. They face charges of abuse of power and obstruction of justice, among others.



They are accused of working at the behest of then Supreme Court Chief Justice Yang Sung-tae to interfere in trials in order to lobby the presidential office of then President Park Geun-hye for the establishment of a separate court of appeals, Yang's pet project.



They were interrogated by the prosecution last month.



Prosecutors suspect that Yang instructed his officials to exert pressure on judges in charge to deliver a verdict in Park's favor.



Ko served as the NCA chief from February 2016 to May 2017 and retired in August this year. Park was his predecessor. Ko is also accused of covering up an appeals court judge's wrongdoing in the southeastern city of Busan in 2016 because he had close ties with a then presidential secretary and Yang needed their connection to lobby the Cheong Wa Dae.



They both have denied any wrongdoing.



Prosecutors have indicted a former NCA deputy head for being the key man in carrying out Yang's schemes. With the two ex-top court justices facing possible arrests, it is likely that the prosecution's next move will eventually target Yang. (Yonhap)The offices of Kim & Chang law firm in Jongno, central Seoul / Korea Times file



By Lee Suh-yoon



Kim & Chang, the country's biggest law firm, was searched last month on suspicion of coordinating the deliberate delay of forced labor rulings by the Supreme Court with Cheong Wa Dae under the former Park Geun-hye administration, which is at the center of a growing judiciary power abuse scandal, prosecutors said Monday.



This is the first time the law firm has been raided by prosecutors. It is currently representing Japanese firms in around 10 ongoing wartime forced labor cases.



Prosecutors searched the offices of two Kim & Chang lawyers: Kwak Byung-hun, a former presidential secretary for legal affairs, and another lawyer who was identified only by his surname Han, who was assigned to represent Japanese firms in forced labor cases, Nov. 12. Kwak has already been summoned for questioning multiple times in relation to the allegation.



The files obtained from the raid show the two lawyers frequently lobbied top court officials regarding the forced labor cases, acting as the main communication channel between the National Court Administration, Cheong Wa Dae and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.



Kwak was working at Cheong Wa Dae at the time of this illicit coordination between 2015 and 2016. He moved to Kim & Chang shortly afterward.



The prosecution's evidence shows Han, a former top court official who moved to Kim & Chang in 1998, met with former Supreme Court Chief Justice Yang Sung-tae at his office multiple times to discuss wartime forced labor cases in 2015  just before the ministry submitted an "opinion" letter claiming forced labor rulings would negatively impact diplomatic ties between Korea and Japan.



The National Court Administration, needing a formal excuse for the delay, pressed the ministry to submit an opinion letter through Han and Kwak, prosecutors claim. President Park also allegedly ordered the ministry to submit the letter in May 2016, shortly before Japan sent 1 billion yen for a foundation to support former sex slaves, in accordance with a 2015 deal.



If the allegations are true, Yang can be charged with the unauthorized passing on of official secrets as he disclosed the Supreme Court's stance on the forced labor cases to Kim & Chang and their Japanese firm clients, which should have been kept confidential until a ruling was made.President Moon Jae-in speaks to reporters on the presidential flight en route to Auckland, New Zealand, for a three-day state visit, Sunday (KST). Yonhap





Moon said U.S. President Donald Trump is ready to give North Korean leader Kim Jong-un "everything he hopes to get" in return for the North's complete denuclearization. Yonhap



By Kim Yoo-chul



KOREAN PRESIDENTIAL PLANE  President Moon Jae-in said Sunday (KST) that U.S. President Donald Trump is prepared to ensure North Korea gets help in nurturing its economy if it takes concrete and verifiable steps toward complete denuclearization.



"If North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's planned visit to Seoul happens as he promised earlier, then that would be a huge step in advancing the stalled denuclearization talks. I shared this idea with Trump and he endorsed and welcome it," Moon told reporters on the presidential flight during a flight to Auckland, New Zealand, for a three-day state visit.



"Once North Korean leader Kim's visit to Seoul materializes, then I will give him messages from Trump. For example, Trump told me he is ready to provide everything that Kim Jong-un hopes to get," Moon said.



Moon met with Trump last week on the sidelines of their participation in this year's G20 summit held in the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires. Moon's sixth meeting with Trump was informal as the format was changed to a "pull-aside." The two agreed to leave the ongoing economic sanctions on Pyongyang unchanged until its complete denuclearization.



"Trump also told me he likes Kim Jong-un and is hoping to keep ongoing efforts toward denuclearization, which the United States and North Korea agreed to at their June summit in Singapore, alive" Moon told reporters accompanying him on his visits to the Czech Republic, Argentina and New Zealand.



South Korea is working to get Kim to visit Seoul this year. "The decision will be Kim's alone based on his determination," the President said, adding he and Trump agreed to approach the issue of Kim's visit to Seoul and a second summit with the U.S. president, separate.





President Moon Jae-in, right, shakes hands with New Zealand Associate Minister of Health Jenny Salesa upon his arrival at Auckland International Airport for a three-day state visit late Sunday (KST). YonhapPresident Moon Jae-in pays tribute at the Auckland Memorial Museum in Auckland, New Zealand, Monday (KST), Dec. 3. Moon kicked off his three-day state visit, here. Yonhap



By Kim Yoo-chul



AUCKLAND, New Zealand _ President Moon Jae-in kicked off an official visit here Monday (KST) during which he will meet with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Foreign Minister Winston Peters, today, to discuss trade, cooperation and efforts to denuclearize North Korea.



Moon and first lady Kim Jung-sook arrived in New Zealand late Sunday for a three-day state visit after participating in the G20 summit held in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Moon visited New Zealand before he became president in 2006 and again in 2015.



A senior presidential aide told The Korea Times that Moon's agenda here will include thorough discussions on expanding bilateral ties. The President will also talk about links between South Korea's New Southern Policy and New Zealand's Pacific reset policy, aimed at countering the growing presence of China in the Asia-Pacific region.



"Moon will ask New Zealand to support his engagement-centric North Korean policy. As the four stakeholders in the North's denuclearization talks  the United States, China, Japan and Russia  hold different positions on the stalled negotiations, winning backing from other countries matters," the presidential aide said asking not to be identified.



Moon will also discuss results of the G20 talks with his New Zealand counterpart. At the summit, the leaders of 20 advanced economies signed off on an agreement reaffirming a commitment to multilateral trade and a "rules-based international order."







President Moon Jae-in shakes hands with New Zealand's opposition leader Simon Bridges at the start of an afternoon tea meeting held in the Cordis Hotel, Auckland, New Zealand, Monday (KST). YonhapBy Lee Min-hyung



South Korea and the United States have not yet made a decision on whether to continue suspending their joint military exercises next year despite an earlier pledge to finalize the schedules for the drills no later than Dec. 1.



The pledge was made on the sidelines of the annual Security Consultative Meeting in Washington in October. South Korean Defense Minister Jeong Kyeong-doo said he would announce the 2019 joint exercise plans under close consultation with U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, but no specific timelines or schedules have been confirmed.



"The announcement was expected to be made before the aforementioned deadline, but both defense leaders are still narrowing their differences on the agenda," the South's defense ministry spokeswoman Choi Hyun-soo said. "We will announce the details at the earliest possible date."



This came at a time when the allies are scaling down their joint military drills in reflection of the ongoing peace momentum on the Korean Peninsula.



On Monday, South Korea started an independent air drill replacing the Vigilant Ace joint aerial exercise with the United States, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said Monday.



The Republic of Korea Air Force plans to conduct its own drill for five days from Monday, which the aerospace force says is aimed at maintaining combat readiness in the air and improving pilots' abilities to carry out military missions.



But concerns have surfaced that Seoul may remain more vulnerable to possible security threats from Pyongyang, as the drill is smaller in scale compared with last year's Seoul-Washington joint air drill.



"The aerial forces of the South and the U.S. believe there is no stumbling block for the allies to maintain joint combat readiness, as both sides have continuously worked closely with each other by verifying bilateral networking and command systems (despite the lack of the Vigilant Ace)," an official from the JCS said.



This is not the first time this year the allies have shown signs of scaling down their joint military exercises. In June, they suspended their large-scale Ulchi Freedom Guardian annual command post exercise.



The move falls in line with the ongoing peace gestures towards North Korea, which expressed anger whenever the South and the U.S. carried out their annual joint military exercises.



Pyongyang wants Seoul and Washington to make what the regime calls a "reciprocal" gesture in exchange for its ongoing steps for denuclearization. The steps include the dismantlement of the Punggye-ri nuclear test site in May and a part of the Tongchang-ri missile facility in July.



In exchange, the North wants Seoul and Washington to suspend all military exercises.



But the U.S. wants the regime to offer a more specific timeline for its planned denuclearization. For this reason, calls have grown for the leaders of the U.S. and the North to hold their second summit as soon as possible to resolve the ongoing deadlock in their bilateral denuclearization talks.



Rep. Lee Hae-chan, the chairman of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea, speaks during a press conference held to mark the 100th day of his inauguration at the National Assembly, Monday. / Yonhap



By Park Ji-won



Rep. Lee Hae-chan, the chairman of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), pledged Monday to focus on economic growth and establishing peace to reboot the country's sluggish economy.



"First, I will focus on stabilizing people's lives and sustainable economic growth. In order to create an inclusive country where people can live well together, we need to have a bold social debate beyond boundaries among companies, labor sector and civil society," Lee said during a press conference held in the National Assembly, Monday, to mark his 100th day as DPK chairman.



"Once we can achieve denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula and end the Korean War through inter-Korean summits and North-U.S. summits, we will be able to share the outcomes of the achievement of peace and economy."



His remarks came after the ruling party's approval rate fell to 38 percent Monday. It marked the ninth consecutive weekly fall and the lowest figure in about two years. The government and ruling party have been criticized by opposition parties for poor economic and job creation performance. Also, Lee's move is in line with the government's economic principles: income-led growth, innovative growth and a fair economy and peace momentum.



He said, "We need to come up with creative welfare and labor programs as well as an innovative growth model through a compromise in the society to invest in the future industry." He highlighted he will develop a government measure, "Gwangju job," which aims to provide welfare programs to make up for salary cuts, and expand it into different regions and create more jobs.



Regarding North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's visit to Seoul, Lee said "he promised to visit Seoul within this year and we expect him to do so."



"I think it is desirable that the visit will take place and it is dependent on Kim's decision. If he makes up his mind (to come), ruling and opposition parties at the Assembly will discuss it and prepare for it."



Regarding the question over the opposition parties' request to call for the resignation of Cho Kuk, the senior presidential secretary for civil affairs, for alleged mismanagement of his staff, Lee defended him and criticized it as being the opposition parties' "political action." "As far as I know, Cho is not related to the case."



Last month, an officer on the inspection team under the authority of the civil affairs secretary at Cheong Wa Dae intervened in a police case, allegedly using his influence as staff of the presidential office. Political parties went all-out to call for Cho's resignation citing lax discipline under his leadership.



On Sunday, the DPK apologized in a statement for the people's disappointment over the alleged misconduct by the presidential officer saying "we will get rid of what is wrong and take a concrete measure in order not to repeat the mistakes." The presidential spokesman said Monday that "(Cheong Wa Dae) is not in the position to comment on the issue."



Meanwhile, he also pledged to come up with objective rules by April to nominate candidates to win general elections in 2020.



"It is important to come up with the rule as fast as possible. Also, it is desirable to minimize the political nomination."



He emphasized that he has a limitless responsibility for the 2020 general elections and the success of Moon Jae-in government.





North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, President Moon Jae-in



By Kim Bo-eun



The government is expected to step up efforts for a possible visit to Seoul this month by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. President Moon Jae-in said this possibility was still open following his summit with U.S. President Donald Trump.



Expectations are high in certain circles that Moon may send a special envoy to Pyongyang soon to arrange the visit. Trump also said he is aiming for a summit with Kim early next year, something that could be helpful in reviving stalled denuclearization talks, according to some analysts.



"The possibility of Kim's visit within the month is open," President Moon told reporters in the presidential plane flying from Buenos Aires, Argentina, following the G20 summit, to New Zealand.



A week ago, Cheong Wa Dae had hinted that things might not go as planned, considering the stalemate in the denuclearization negotiations.



However, the presidential office has since gone back to its previous stance and is preparing for the possible summit between Moon and Kim to take place this month, despite the lack of time remaining.



Unification ministry spokesman Baik Tae-hyun said Monday, "The North Korean leader's visit to Seoul within this month is possible and necessary."





Seen above is the U.S. 7th Fleet's USS Blue Ridge amphibious command ship docked at Japan's Yokosuka naval base on Nov. 26. / Korea Times photo by Lee Min-hyung



By Lee Min-hyung



TOKYO/OKINAWA  The United States naval base in Tokyo was busy, continuing readiness preparations to counter possible military provocations by North Korea despite the ongoing peace momentum on the Korean Peninsula.



This does not mean that the U.S. and Japanese navies were holding a joint exercise by the time this reporter visited the base in Yokosuka, Tokyo on Nov. 26. Even if North Korea has not staged provocations this year, military officials from the U.S. and Japan were still working on the maintenance of their exceptionally large ships.



In the case of a contingency on the peninsula, the Yokosuka base will send its warships to Korea, including the nuclear-powered supercarrier the USS Ronald Reagan and the 19,600-ton USS Blue Ridge from the U.S. 7th Fleet.



Taking advantage of the absence of North Korean provocations, the navies of the U.S. and Japan were busy repairing damaged warships and vessels in use for non-combat purposes, such as networking and transportation.



The Yokosuka base is equipped with the world's most-efficient repair and maintenance facilities for military vessels.



The six enormous dry docks located inside the base were most interesting. When this reporter visited the base, the destroyer USS John S. McCain was also being repaired by skilled Japanese workers.



The vessel was damaged in August last year after colliding with a commercial vessel in the territorial waters of Singapore.



Aerial readiness for Korean Peninsula



Aside from the naval readiness, the 5th Fleet Air Wing in Futenma Marine Corps in Okinawa expressed confidence in its aerial readiness in the case of a contingency on the peninsula.



"The U.S. Marine Corps has enough capability to carry out joint military missions with about 20 countries in the Pacific area and conduct 200 annual drills with them," said a U.S. Marine Corps official on Nov. 30.



In particular, he underlined the strong security alliance between Seoul, Tokyo and Washington, saying that the base is serving as "strong war deterrence" for potential contingency on the peninsula.



The base can deploy combat forces in less than 12 hours in case of emergencies across the globe.



The military official also shared his views on the suspension of major joint military exercises on the peninsula.



"Even if Seoul and Washington suspend or cancel joint military drills due to North Korea's rare gesture for peace, the U.S. forces are maintaining a strong military readiness here in close alliance with Japan," he said.





By Arthur I. Cyr





"Fog in channel, Continent cut off," is an old British joke about a newspaper headline about weather over the English Channel. Current developments regarding the European Union (EU) underscore the enduring reality that Britain is "in" but not "of" Europe.



On Nov. 25, at a summit in Brussels, Belgium, EU representatives formally confirmed the negotiated departure of Britain, known as "Brexit." President Jean-Claude Juncker of the European Commission expressed diplomatic "sadness" at the prospect.



Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands spoke favorably of the Brexit agreement as "the best we can get." Historically, the smaller nations of the EU have been most committed to ambitious supranational integration.



The withdrawal agreement reached between the British government and the EU is both long and complex. The 599-page document is guaranteed to keep lawyers, diplomats and political staff (and politicians who do their own reading) up late.



The main elements include concessions by Prime Minister Theresa May's government in Britain, reflecting understanding the reality that the nation is part of Europe. The new treaty guarantees EU citizens free movement within the United Kingdom (i.e. England, Scotland and Wales  the regions comprising Britain, plus Northern Ireland). Likewise, UK citizens will have the same rights within the EU.



There is explicit agreement that Britain will leave the EU on March 29, 2019, but with flexible conditions. The nation will remain inside the important customs union that was the initial basis of European integration.



This transition period will last until December 2020, and longer if both sides agree that is necessary. Additionally, Britain has agreed to pay approximately 39 billion pounds to cover employee pension costs and other financial commitments already made to the EU.



Northern Ireland is especially important, and the agreement includes a guarantee to avoid any hard border separating that volatile region from the rest of Ireland. Imposition of any restrictive border controls could spark renewed violence by the Irish Republican Army.



Now Britain's beleaguered, dedicated Prime Minister May must persuade her nation's Parliament to accept the agreement, and that may prove impossible. Some members of her own Conservative Party as well as the other parties in the House of Commons oppose the terms.



Brexit has been at the center of the nation's political debate for two-and-a-half years. In June 2016, a referendum initiated by Prime Minister David Cameron resulted in a narrow 51.9 percent of those voting opting to leave the union.



In the face of this surprise result, Cameron resigned as head of the government. Successor Theresa May called a general election for early June 2017. In another surprise, the Conservatives lost their narrow House of Commons majority. The party has governed since by cooperating with the right-wing Democratic Unionist Party of Northern Ireland, also opposed to the Brexit accord.



In recent decades the Conservative Party, which led Britain into the European community, has shifted position. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher was famously a Eurosceptic. The 1997 general election brought into Parliament a younger generation of Conservative politicians who reflected her views, including Theresa May.



Britain stayed aloof from the original European Economic Community, founded in the 1950s. However, since World War II the nation's trade and investment have become heavily concentrated in Europe.



That fact of life will not change, inside or outside the EU. British pragmatism and the importance of that economy to the rest of Europe likely will result in a workable agreement  eventually.



Arthur I. Cyr (acyr@carthage.edu) is Clausen Distinguished Professor at Carthage College and author of "After the Cold War."

Their message was addressed to General Secretary of the Lao Peoples Revolutionary Party (LPRP) and President Bounnhang Vorachith, Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith and National Assembly Chairwoman Pany Yathotou.



In the message, the Vietnamese leaders expressed joy at the great achievements that the Lao people have recorded in their cause of national construction and defence under the clear-sighted leadership of the LPRP.



They noted that after nearly three years implementing the resolution of the 10th National Congress of the LPRP, the socio-political situation in Laos has been kept stable, national defence and security has been maintained, the Lao economy has continued to grow and social, cultural and educational affairs have made progress, while the Lao peoples living conditions have constantly been improved and the countrys prestige and position in the international and regional arena have been enhanced.



Congratulations on your important accomplishments. We wish the Lao people, under the clear-sighted leadership of the LPRP headed by General Secretary and President Bounnhang Vorachith, greater achievements in implementing the Resolution of the 10th National Congress of the LPRP and the 8th Five-year Socio-Economic Development Plan for 2016-2020, and in preparing for the successful organisation of Party congresses at all levels towards the 11th Party National Congress, the message read.



The same day, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh extended his greetings to Lao Foreign Minister Saleumxay Kommasith.



Head of the CPV Central Committees Commission for External Relations Hoang Binh Quan also sent a congratulatory message to his Lao counterpart Sunthon Xayachack./.

Dozens of countries have enacted laws against female genital cutting, a procedure in which parts of young girls' genitalia are surgically altered or removed for nonmedical reasons.



For more than 20 years, the United States was one of them. That changed earlier last month, when a federal judge in Michigan struck down the longstanding U.S. ban on the practice, which is sometimes called female genital mutilation, or female circumcision.



In his ruling, U.S. District Judge Bernard Friedman said the cutting of young girls' genitals is a local criminal matter that must be regulated by the states, not by Congress.



"As despicable as this practice may be, it is essentially a criminal assault," Friedman wrote. Female genital mutilation "is not part of a larger market and it has no demonstrated effect on interstate commerce. The Commerce Clause does not permit Congress to regulate a crime of this nature."



For now, that leaves states to decide whether to criminalize this procedure, which is typically performed on girls age 15 and younger for social, cultural or religious reasons.



While 27 U.S. states already ban female genital cutting, Washington State does not. Washington state legislators should not hesitate to pass their own law this coming session making it a crime to perform female genital cutting on children under 18.



An estimated 200 million women worldwide have undergone some form of female genital cutting, which often includes removing all or part of the clitoris and sometimes parts of the labia. In severe cases, it can include sewing together the vaginal opening to leave only a small hole for urination and menstruation.



Reasons for the practice vary. Some social groups view it as a rite of passage into womanhood, or a means of controlling women's sexuality. Others consider it a way of making women more clean, or as a prerequisite for marriage.



While female genital cutting is common in several countries in Africa, as well as certain places in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, some instances have also been reported in the United States. In the Michigan case, the lead defendant was a local doctor accused of performing female genital mutilation on nine girls between the ages of 8 and 13.



While there is no data tracking how many girls have been subjected to this in Washington state, that doesn't mean it doesn't happen, including during trips back to their home countries, says Isatou Jallow, a survivor of female genital cutting who lives in Seattle. In most cases, it is not something that families will discuss openly, says Jallow, who emigrated from The Gambia and now is completing postgraduate work at the University of Washington.



"I just want people to know that it is happening," says Jallow, who underwent a severe version of the procedure when she was 8. "There are American citizens and kids who came here with their parents, who will be taken back to their countries to be cut.



"Lawmakers are oblivious to this, so having a law in place to protect these kids is very important."



The federal ban that was struck down included a prohibition on "vacation cutting," in which girls are transported to other countries for the purpose of having their genitals cut.



The painful procedure provides no health benefits but can cause lingering problems, including complications in childbirth, painful sexual intercourse and urinary infections. The practice is broadly condemned by the United Nations and the World Health Organization, who call it a violation of women's rights.



Yet both organizations say the practice remains a pressing issue worldwide, both due to rising populations in countries where it occurs and increased emigration from those areas to other parts of the world.



Jallow says she worries that people who believe in the procedure will feel emboldened by the recent ruling.



As a countermeasure, Washington should join the other states that already have banned this practice. Doing so would send a clear message in support of women's rights, while ensuring a strong legal deterrent remains in place against a practice that can cause irreversible damage to women and girls.





The above article appeared in the Seattle Times. It was distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.



By Mark Peterson





I have a proposal.



In recent weeks, I have documented the birth of sijo in English in America. And I've contrasted the rise of sijo in English with the death of sijo in Korean. Today, I am proposing a way to revive sijo in Korean.



I think the reason sijo is taught as a dead art form in Korea is because of the college entrance exam, the all-important exam students take their senior year in high school. Because the exam can only test for knowledge of old poems, and cannot include a poem the student might write, the only thing taught is the old poems, the classics.



The common criticism of education is "teach to the exam" lets exams control what is taught. Can the student write a sijo? No! It's a waste of time  one must study for the exam. And thus, the creativity of writing one's own poem is forsaken in order to teach what someone else did, creatively, 500 years ago.



Don't misunderstand me. I think the Korean education system is one of the best in the world. All the evaluations say so  it's ranked No.1, or No.2, or in the top five  depending on which survey you are looking at. And it's true from my own experience. I've taught Korean yuhaksaeng (overseas students) in my classes in America every year, and they are always among the top students in the class.



But the one criticism that the Korean public makes of the education system is that it does not foster creativity. And the most damning evidence cited is often that a Korean scholar has yet to win a Nobel Prize. Kim Dae-jung got the Peace Prize, but the scholarly prizes in economics, physics, medicine, literature, etc., have eluded the Koreans.



Maybe, it is said, Korea needs to foster creativity more in the education system, and not rely on a "cookie-cutter" result  that is, where everyone takes the same test and everyone is supposed to come out the same. And system, it is said, stifles creativity and individual expression.



The solution:



Hold a sijo contest  as is done in America  to reward creative students. I think the contest can be held at each high school, and the judges can evaluate the students' poems without names attached so it will be objective  as objective as the college entrance exam itself. And points can be given for the top 10 sijo writers, which will count toward the college entrance exam.



This would, in effect, put the students' sijo on the exam! In the current system, the only sijo that can appear on the exam are the famous ones, the masterpieces. And the student can only study those masterworks. There is no incentive to write a new one because there is no way to test for it. But if students can be rewarded for their own creative work, it is virtually the same as putting their own sijo on the exam  and they get points for it.



Korea overemphasizes the exam process and the objective measure of testing because of the great emphasis Korea places on education and because of corrupt practices in the past, where wealthy or influential people could get their students admitted to universities regardless of ability. So, over the years Korea has created a bribe-proof, influence-proof, corruption-proof system. But to allow points for creative learning that are determined in an objective way will not in any way diminish the objectivity and the standards of the college entrance exam.



And if it works for a sijo contest, then Korea could reward creative efforts with other poems, and with similar contests for other poems. And points could be given toward the college entrance exam for winning the high school science fair. And one of the most creative of activities that has connections to multiple fields is music; the winner of a high school piano competition, or violin competition should have points applicable to college admissions.



The anonymity of the student and the absolute objectivity of the competition can easily be maintained by having "double-blind" competitions  the judges do not know the names of the students, and the students do not know the names of the judges. Judges can easily be recruited from other schools, asked to serve as ad hoc committees that would vary in composition from year to year.



This proposal will open the door to a whole new approach to learning in Korea. A more creative learning experience, and a step away from the cookie-cutter rote memorization system that stifles, rather than encourages, creativity.



And it can all start with using sijo as the test case.





Mark Peterson (markpeterson@byu.edu) is professor emeritus of Korean, Asian and Near Eastern languages at Brigham Young University in Utah.

Chung-Ang University Prof. James D. Jung speaks during a recent interview with The Korea Times about ways to incentivize corporations and banks to get more involved in tackling important social issues. Korea Times photo by Choi Won-suk



By Oh Young-jin



Corporations and banks should get more involved in solving the problems facing the communities they belong to in order to gain more of the public's acceptance and therefore grow on a sustainable basis.



One way to encourage them to do that is to describe their social contributions in dollar terms to help the investors decide which firm they will put their money into, a scholar argues.



"If the businesses are scored for their social value-improving work, it would be a great incentive for them to make bigger contributions," Chung-Ang University Prof. James D. Jung told The Korea Times during a recent interview. "For that, a standardized system for calculation should be made to give consumers and investors additional criteria by which to make purchasing and investing decisions.



Prof. Chung, an accounting specialist, has been trying to establish his formula. There have been some attempts before but so far they remain half done or a work in progress.



Jed Emerson, a prominent activist, is pushing for "impact investing" and promoting double or triple bottom lines. His extra bottom lines are aimed at reflecting corporate efforts in numerical terms to address social and environmental issues as in the conventional income statement but he expressed some skepticism for its complete success during an interview in October.



"I diverge from Mr. Emerson's stance because I am relying more on accounting methods," the professor said. "And it is quite possible to accommodate the extra bottom lines within the current accounting practices."



He talked about his step-by-step approach: "The first is what SK Group is doing  double bottom line. It uses a relative base line to accommodate a variety of factors. Say there is an 'underpaid' group, compared with the average wage. If their pay is raised, it would mean the increased portion would be regarded as additional social value. As such, it employs a variety of ways so there are many different ways to express them."



"What I suggest is a sense of absolutism. Besides the conventional bottom line showing operating profit by subtracting expenses from the income, we will identify expense-created social value and income-created social value in one line," he said.



He said a radical change of consciousness is needed on the part of both firms and investors to help his formula take root but it is plain to see that change as being inevitable.



"Investors would ask the management why it would care to invest in doing good for society with the money that can boost their dividends," he said. "Profit -making is the ultimate goal of businesses after all."



But that is where sustainable growth comes in. "If the companies work against common values  contaminating rivers, burning trees and supporting disrespectful politicians, the investors would keep them at a distance because of the risks they carry," he said. "Now, not doing a disservice to society is not enough. Rather, promoting those values actively is required."



That explains why some companies have a P/B ratio below 1 despite sizable tangible assets, he said. "Intangible reputation is a big corporate asset."



Jung said that some extra incentives would help the firms take on a greater social role in their economic activities.



"We need more firms to make declarations to the investors about their commitment to social and environmental issues," he said. "The government may offer these firms tax benefits."



He said that once big firms take the lead, small ones will follow, which will create a virtuous cycle.



"The consumers and investors have a role to play by letting people know their preferences for firms and banks that are actively seeking to address the social issues," he said.

By Jun Ji-hye



The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) will export its research and education programs to Kenya to hand down its innovative models to the African country that is striving to modernize itself based on science and technology, the university said Monday.





KAIST has exported parts of its programs related to research and education to China and the Middle East, but this marks the first time that it has exported its entire program to another country.



A KAIST official said the university has signed a final deal with the Kenyan government, Nov. 30, for a project to establish Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (Kenya KAIST).



The African country plans to open Kenya KAIST in 2021 to nurture high-skilled manpower in the natural sciences and engineering sectors as part of its mid- and long-term national development plans to join the ranks of developed countries by the end of 2030.



"The kick-off event for the project will take place in January in Kenya," the KAIST official said.



Under the deal, KAIST will do consulting work for 36 months in designing basic science curricula and establishing management systems, the official added.

A site for a Henan Mingtai Aluminum Industrial factory in Gwangyang Bay Area Free Economic Zone's Sepoong Industrial Complex in South Jeolla Province / Courtesy of Gwangyang Bay Area Free Economic Zone Authority



By Park Jae-hyuk



Gwangyang Bay Area Free Economic Zone Authority (GFEZ) is in the hot seat for its attempt to attract the China-based Henan Mingtai Aluminum Industrial to build a factory at its industrial complex in South Jeolla Province, according to industry officials Monday.



Since the Chinese aluminum giant and GFEZ agreed to establish an aluminum factory on an 82,644-square-meter plot of land in the zone, aluminum producers here have been expressing concerns over the investment's adverse effects on their sales.



The Korea Nonferrous Metal Association issued a press release, Saturday, claiming Mingtai's entry may cause severe damage to Korean aluminum makers within the next couple of years.



"Items that Mingtai seeks to produce in Korea are those that Korean manufacturers have produced. Moreover, Korea lacks laws that can regulate the Chinese firm's business expansion in the future," the association said in the press release. "The Chinese aluminum giant is highly expected to encroach on the Korean market with lower production costs."



Gwangyang residents have also raised concerns over pollution the factory may emit.



On Nov. 22, a petitioner, who claimed to be a Gwangyang citizen, posted a petition on the Cheong Wa Dae website, urging the President to prevent the Chinese company from building the aluminum factory in the city.



"China mentioned aluminum factories as the main reason for smog, and it stopped producing aluminum last year," the petitioner said. "I want to live with my children in a clean environment with clean air."



As of Monday, more than 180,000 people had signed the petition.





Gwangyang Bay Area Free Economic Zone Authority (GFEZ) Commissioner Kim Kap-sup / Courtesy of GFEZSeen is a screen capture of an online article about an interview between columnist Choi Tae-sup and YES24 about his recently published book, "Korean Man." / Courtesy of YES24



By Park Jae-hyuk



YES24 has been facing a growing backlash from male customers since Sunday when the online bookstore operator sent an email to advertise a recently published feminist book, according to industry officials Monday.



The email titled "How could you be like a Korean man?" includes the derogatory term, "han-nam," which refers to a Korean man. Members of radical feminist websites, such as "Megalia" and "Womad," have used the internet term to insult Korean men.



According to male members of YES24, the email the company sent to them had an attachment featuring an interview between the company and columnist Choi Tae-sup, the author of the book.



"Among those who try to protect their masculinity, marginalized people become victims, while core people survive," Choi said in the interview. "At the same time, the victims become those who commit violence against others."



The author also said he dealt with gender-related issues in the book, focusing on the masculinity of men who have seized hegemony.



After reading his interview, angry male customers began posting screen shots on various online forums to advertise their withdrawal from YES24.



The word "withdrawal" is also among the most-searched words of the online bookstore operator's website.



Amid the growing criticism, Choi wrote on social media Sunday night that those who use Japanese anime characters for their profile pictures were leaving YES24, after reading his interview.



His remarks have gone viral, provoking more male members of the online bookstore.



The company, which blocked access to the email after the controversy, later apologized for causing inconvenience to its customers.



"The title of the email was based on what the author said during the interview. We did not use the word han-nam to support a certain side," a YES24 official said. "We apologize for giving an improper title to the email."



Industry analysts say the boycott may affect the company's performance, citing the precedent of Lezhin Comics.



When cartoonists of Lezhin supported Megalia in July 2016, many members left the online comic platform and it turned a loss in the following year. According to a regulatory filing, the company, which posted 800 million won ($718,794) in operating profits in 2016, suffered a 12.5 billion won loss in 2017.



As for YES24, female members in their 40s have accounted for the largest proportion of buyers.



However, the proportion of books that male customers in their 30s purchased rose to 21.5 percent in 2017 from 12.3 percent in 2016, due to the increasing sales of socio-political books following the impeachment of former President Park Geun-hye and the presidential election that year.



The popularity of comics and Japanese light novels also boosted the number of men who bought books from YES24.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia Ngo Duc Manh

addresses the opening of the first Russia-Vietnam Youth Forum in Saint-Petersburg on November 30th (Photo: VNA)



The forum saw the attendance of Acting Governor of Saint Petersburg Alexander Beglov and Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia Ngo Duc Manh.



The Vietnamese delegation to the forum was led by Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City chapter of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union Pham Hong Son.



Opening the event, Alexander Beglov said that young people are one of the key forces in promoting the relationship between Russia and Vietnam. Therefore, it is necessary to engage young people from both countries in international dialogues, he said.



He called on the two sides to step up exchanges and meetings between young people and students of the two sides as one of the best ways to consolidate the cooperative relations between the two nations.



Ambassador Ngo Duc Manh expressed his belief that the forum will help the youth of both sides affirm their important role in the cause of national building and development of both Vietnam and Russia.



He stressed the need for youngsters to equip themselves with comprehensive knowledge and skills to master new technology and apply them in production amidst the Fourth Industrial Revolution.



Meanwhile, the HCM City youth leader Pham Hong Son hailed the idea to hold the forum of St Petersburg, describing it as the first important event in the exchange of youth between the two twinning cities. He expressed his belief that the forum will convey positive messages to young people of both countries, paving the way for the organisation of the second forum in Ho Chi Minh City in 2019.



The three-day forum includes discussions and talks on various issues of youngsters concern such as e-governments, smart cities, Russia-Vietnam cooperation in the digital economy, and digital culture in civil society development.



A contest on the Vietnamese culture and the history of the Russia-Vietnam friendship will also be launched, with the 10 winners to attend the second edition of the forum in Ho Chi Minh City in 2019.



On the sidelines of the forum, Ambassador Ngo Duc Manh had a meeting with Governor Alexander Beglov to discuss specific cooperation orientations in the Vietnam Year in Russia and Russia Year in Vietnam. The diplomat also delivered a lecture on the Russia-Vietnam relations in the North-West Institute of Managements Faculty of International Affairs./.Such efforts can be seen in the promulgation of Resolution 19 on improving the business climate and enhancing competitiveness in 2014 and Resolution 35 on supporting business development in 2016.

Stamp of reform

Five years after implementing Resolution 19 and two years after Resolution 35, the business environment in Vietnam has seen marked improvements, as the procedures to participate in the market have been simplified and businesses are now able to save a great deal of time and costs.

A wave of new businesses has been triggered. In 2016 more than 110,000 enterprises were established, followed by 126,000 in 2017 and 121,000 in the first eleven months of 2018.

Over the past five years, Vietnams position on the World Banks Doing Business rankings has improved remarkably, ranked at 78th position in 2014, 90th in 2015, 82nd in 2016, 68th in 2017 and 69th in 2018. Although Vietnam dropped one notch in 2018, eight out of ten indicators recorded higher scores, such as starting a business and access to electricity.

As part of the efforts to cut costs for businesses, a number of provinces have built public service centres where all administrative procedures are handled in a single place and closely monitored in order to minimise civil servants dishonest behaviour. The model has become a good practice to be replicated and create a transparent and effective mechanism for citizens and businesses to file their complaints on the responsibilities of administrative officers. Meanwhile, dialogues are regularly being held between government agencies and businesses.

To guarantee equal business opportunities and access to resources, as soon as the Law on Support for Small and Medium Enterprises took effect on January 1, 2018, the government took aggressive actions and urged the relevant ministries and agencies to formulate documents guiding the implementation of the law. Furthermore, the legal framework and procedures concerning investment in agriculture have also been fine-tuned and simplified, helping to boost credit to this sector.

According to Nguyen Dinh Cung, Director of the Central Institute of Economic Management, the governments reforms are going in the right direction and becoming more substantive.

He added that the largest difference in this term is the aggressiveness of the Prime Minister and his deputies in directing ministries and agencies to implement the resolutions on improving the business environment, which has bolstered the confidence of enterprises and the market.

A breakthrough needed

Despite the encouraging results, there remain a number of drawbacks in the business climate which are hindering the operation of enterprises.

According to experts, Vietnam still has a lot of room for further reform because the situation in which the higher levels are full of determination while the lower levels show little determination is still prevalent.

In the future, it is necessary for the government, ministries, agencies and local authorities to take bolder actions in the common effort to improve the business climate and enhance the competitiveness of the country.

In order to better implement the tasks outlined in Resolutions 19 and 35, those concerned need to understand the methodology and measures to improve the indicators, make feasible plans, assign clear duties, and apply IT in a substantive manner. In addition, the implementation of these tasks should be aligned with personnel affairs, especially the role of those in leadership positions in making decisions and cooperating with other agencies. The results must be measured subjectively and have the feedback of enterprises.

Although challenges abound, the goal of having one million active enterprises by 2020 could still be realised if ministries and agencies make bold efforts to remove the obstacles.The delegation, led by First Mayor Torsten Bonew, took the opportunity to give technical assistance on the management of wastewater quality, worth EUR100,000 to Hanoi.

Chairman Chung briefed the guest on the capital citys recent socio-economic development, saying that Hanoi is a large city with an area of over 3,000sq.m and a population of 7.6 million. With rapid urbanisation, Hanoi is facing significant challenges like water and air pollution, as well as traffic congestion.

In its five-year socio-economic development plan (2016-2020), the city has taken on numerous programmes focused on urban development, water resource improvement, and clean water supply, including the Duong River Surface Water Treatment Plant project using German technology. The plant was put into operation last October, supplying 150,000cu.m of water per day.

Furthermore, Hanoi has partnered with Germanys Watch Water company to produce Redocy 3C to treat pollution in rivers and lakes, while also installing more than 100 air monitoring stations to take appropriate measures, and using vacuum sweepers of Germanys Hako group, Chung said.

First Mayor Bonew said during its development, Leipzig experienced challenges similar to Hanoi at present. With its experience in environmental pollution treatment and climate change adaptation, Leipzig wants to cooperate with Hanoi to overcome the difficulties, towards achieving sustainable development.

Bonew said that during the visit, the Leipzig delegation focuses on fields like wastewater treatment and clean water supply via solar-powered machines, tertiary training cooperation, and the exchange of vocational training teachers.

First Mayor Torsten Bonew invited Hanoi Chairman Nguyen Duc Chung, along with other city leaders and representatives of Hanoi companies and businesses to attend the Leipzig Fair in 2019.The PM said the Vietnamese Government and people are ready to conduct exchanges and cooperate with the DPRK Government and people in all aspects for the interests of both countries people and in line with international law and the eras general trend, thus contributing to peace, stability and development in the region and the world.

He discussed with the guest the Doi Moi policy of Vietnam and measures to implement the policy under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) over the past more than 30 years, including the building of the socialist-oriented market economy and improvement of the peoples living conditions. He added that Vietnam is willing to share experience with the DPRK in expanding external economic ties, attracting investment and developing tourism.

The PM welcomed the positive developments in the Korean Peninsula, particularly outcomes of summits between the DPRK and the US and the Republic of Korea in the recent past. He expressed the wish that the DPRK and concerned parties will make the best use of opportunities for dialogue and be flexible in implementing reached agreements so as to achieve substantial progress in the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

PM Phuc stressed that Vietnam is ready to make active contributions to the dialogue process between the DPRK and related parties

FM Ri Yong-ho affirmed the consistent stance of the Party and Government of the DPRK on continuing to strengthen and develop the traditional friendship with Vietnam, which is a valuable asset fostered by President Kim Il-sung and President Ho Chi Minh.

He said the DPRK wants to bolster exchanges and cooperation with Vietnam in fields that meet each countrys needs and strength and in accordance with the development trend of the new situation.

The FM said the DPK is working to popularise the new strategic guideline set by President Kim Jong-un and adopted by the 3rd meeting of the 7th Central Committee of the Workers Party of Korea, which focuses on economic development.

According to the minister, in order to build a peaceful environment for economic development, President Kim Jong-un has recently intensified external activities with related countries.

He reported to PM Phuc the good outcomes of his talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh, including specific measures to boost bilateral traditional friendship in the time ahead.

He wished the Vietnamese people greater achievements in implementing the guidelines of the 12th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam.The enterprises have invested or plan to invest in Vietnam in energy, construction, trade, exhibition, telecommunications, real estate, interior decoration and medical equipment.

At the meeting, the ambassador thanked the DEIK and its members for their support in promoting economic-trade ties between the two sides, especially in the success of the Vietnam-Turkey Business and Investment Forum in Istanbul during the visit of National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan in October this year.

Ambassador Tuyen said that over the past 10 years, trade between the two countries has grown 13 times to nearly US$3 billion in 2017.

He said cooperation potential between the two sides is high, stressing that the Vietnamese Government always works with foreign investors, including those from Turkey, to facilitate their projects.

He expressed his hope that Turkish firms will visit Vietnam to explore the market, while calling for the businesses engagement in areas of Vietnams priorities, including infrastructure, agriculture, green energy, public heath, tourism and high technology.

The Turkish firms described Vietnam as a broad and promising market, and a gateway for them to reach Southeast Asian markets. They expressed their hope to receive more support in applying for visas to Vietnam.

During his stay in Istanbul, Ambassador Tuyen also met with Travelshop, Rep Kaucuk and Turkish Airlines to explore their plans to invest in Vietnam.

Bilal Eksi, Deputy Chairman and CEO of Turkish Airlines said due to rising demand, the firm plans to double the number of flights from Istanbul to Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to 14 flights per week after September 2019, and to 28 flights per week in the future.Granting an interview to Vietnam News Agency correspondents in Seoul on the threshold of an official visit to the RoK by National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan from December 4-7, Hahn Choong-hee said that since the bilateral diplomatic ties were set up in 1992, the two countries have witnessed rapid development in their relations, from trade, investment and economics to culture and people-to-people exchanges.

For the RoK, the diplomatic relationship with Vietnam is one of the most important relations in the region at the strategic level, he affirmed, recalling the Vietnam visit by RoK President Moon Jae-in last March as another important milestone in the bilateral ties.

Agreeing with Vietnamese Ambassador to the RoK Nguyen Vu Tus remark on the family relationship between Vietnam and the RoK in his recent meeting with the RoKs NA Speaker Moon Hee-sang, the advisor noted that tens of thousands of Vietnamese people are working and living in the RoK, while many Koreans, including politicians and entrepreneurs, also want to visit Vietnam to seek cooperation and business opportunities.

Hahn Choong-hee suggested both sides continue taking advantage of similarities in their traditions and cultures to develop the strategic cooperation and high-level dialogue, as well as collaborating with each other to invest in a third partner in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

He proposed intensifying cultural cooperation to bring the two countries young generations closer together and enhance mutual understanding so as to further foster the bilateral relations.

He also expressed his hope that more and more universities in Vietnam will open Korean-language classes and vice versa.

Regarding the role of the two legislative bodies in strengthening the bilateral ties, the advisor took note of the exchange of many visits recently, notably the Vietnam visit by the RoK top legislator last year and the upcoming visit by the Vietnamese NA Chairwoman.

Many RoK parliamentarians hope to meet and work with Vietnamese NA deputies, politicians, entrepreneurs, and researchers, he stated, suggesting both sides organise visits more regularly to offer chances for the two legislatures to tighten cooperation in issues of shared concern such as sustainable development, climate change response, institution building, and the implementation of millennium development goals.They reached the consensus during their meeting on December 3 as part of Deputy PM Dungs visit to the RoK from December 2-6.

The two sides consented to maintain regular high-level visits and meetings, and step up result-oriented cooperation in such areas as diplomacy, national defence, and security.

They will also strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties, aiming to bring two-way trade to US$100 billion by 2020.

Deputy PM Dung highly appreciated the RoKs consideration of Vietnam as the top priority in its New Southern Policy and affirmed that Vietnam will continue to treasure its relations with the RoK.

He suggested the two sides bolster their coordination in order to create conditions for Vietnamese agricultural products to access and gain a firm foothold in the RoK; improve the competitiveness of Vietnamese goods; support Vietnamese startups; intensify technological transfer; and develop Vietnams support industry in an effort to reduce its trade deficit with the RoK.

The official called on the RoK to continue with its non-refundable aid as well as development and preferential credits to Vietnam, while effectively implementing labour agreements between the two sides.

Deputy PM Dung lauded the RoKs investment projects in Vietnam, as well as Korean businesses increased investment in Vietnam in spheres like the support industry, auto manufacturing, electronics and semi-conducting, energy and renewable energy, infrastructure development in industrial parks, smart city building, and agricultural modernisation.

The Vietnamese Government stands ready to create the best possible conditions for RoK enterprises to invest in large-scale infrastructure projects through the public-private partnership (PPP) model, such as the North-South Expressway, and participate in the equitisation and divestment of state-owned enterprises, he stressed.

On this occasion, the deputy PM applauded the RoK Governments facilitation of visa grants to Vietnamese citizens and appealed to the Korean side to pay more attention and provide further support towards ensuring the rights and interests of Vietnamese in the country, especially Vietnamese nationals married to local spouses.

For his part, PM Lee Nak-yon said Dungs visit is crucial to promoting the bilateral relationship and praised the cooperation achievements the two countries have recorded in the 26 years since diplomatic ties were set up.

The RoK Government attaches importance to the strategic cooperative partnership with Vietnam, he said, noting that he will instruct relevant ministries and agencies of the RoK to successfully realise agreements reached by the two countries, in order to elevate the bilateral relationship to a new height.

The same day, Deputy PM Dung hosted a reception for Chairman of the RoKs ruling Democratic Party (DP) Lee Hae-chan, during which he thanked the Korean party for supporting the development of the win-win relations with Vietnam. He hoped that the party will continue its assistance in bolstering Vietnam-RoK ties, with a focus on enhancing cooperation between the two parties and considering the signing of collaboration deals.

Deputy PM Trinh Dinh Dung (third from right) meets with Chairman of the RoKs ruling Democratic Party (DP) Lee Hae-chan. (Photo: VNA)

Lee stressed that he and the DP have always treasured and will further their relations with the Communist Party of Vietnam, contributing to strengthening bonds between the two nations.

Receiving President of the Korea Foundation Lee Si-hyung, Dung spoke highly of the foundations implementation of the Next Generation Leaders Programme and several other cultural exchange programmes. He suggested the organisation expand its cooperation with Vietnam in the time ahead.

Lee, for his part, said that he will maintain and design more programmes for Vietnamese officials at all levels to study and exchange development experience in the East Asian country.

Dung also visited the Vietnamese Embassy and met with the Vietnamese community in the RoK. Lauding the contributions made by Vietnamese nationals towards developing relations with the RoK, he underlined that the Vietnamese Party and Government always see overseas Vietnamese as an integral part of Vietnam, who have played an important part in fostering cooperation and friendship between Vietnam and foreign countries across the five continents, including the RoK.

Working with Vietnamese scientists who are working and studying in the RoK, Dung said that the scientists have played a starring role in helping the homeland catch up with the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

He noted that the Party and Government have worked to complete the legal framework, facilitate Vietnamese scientists activities in foreign countries and attract international experts to join sci-tech activities in Vietnam.

The Party and Government want to work alongside young scientists who not only hold the potential of the future, but are the best resources at present and the prospective owners of the country, he added.Berlin wont scrap the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project after the latest conflict between Moscow and Kiev, says German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, adding it would reduce Germany's ability to allocate gas supplies to Ukraine.

Ukraine has demanded Germany quit the project, accusing Russia of seizing its ships off the coast of Crimea. Moscow accuses Kiev of provocation after Ukrainian warships illegally entered its territorial waters. The conflict has given opponents of the Russia-led gas pipeline fresh grounds for slamming the project.

Read more

Earlier, some German conservatives urged the government to reconsider the countrys approach towards the gas pipeline in connection with the maritime incident that occurred over the previous weekend. On November 25, three Ukrainian Navy vessels violated Russias maritime border in the Black Sea. The ships and their crew were detained by Russias coastguard.

Maas stressed that even if German firms abandon the project, Russia will press on with building the pipeline.

It would still be built, but there would not be anyone advocating for alternative gas transit through Ukraine. That is why we consider it important to remain engaged politically, Maas told journalists.

Separately, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, who is reportedly a top candidate to replace Chancellor Angela Merkel as leader of the Christian Democrats, said that pulling Germany out of the project would be too radical. However, the politician stressed that Berlin may reduce the amount of gas to flow through the new pipeline.

The Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, which is expected to double the existing pipelines capacity of 55 billion cubic meters annually, will run from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea. It is expected to provide transit for 70 percent of Russian gas sales to the EU.

The pipeline, controlled by a subsidiary of Russian energy giant Gazprom, is built in cooperation with German energy firms Wintershall and Uniper, French multinational Engie, Anglo-Dutch Royal Dutch Shell, as well as Austrias OMV.

The project has been constantly criticized by the Baltic countries, the Ukrainian government and Washington. According to Kiev, the future pipeline would bypass Ukraine and deprive its budget of transit fees. The US government accuses Brussels of strengthening the blocs dependence on Russian gas, and Moscow of monopoly abuse on the European energy market.

Both Moscow and Berlin have stressed that the project is all about business and have assured Kiev that Russian gas transit through Ukraine will continue after the pipeline is built.

For more stories on economy & finance visit RT's business sectionThe head of MI6, the UK's intelligence service, hopes to recruit a new generation of tech-savvy spies, with a passionate speech urging graduates to protect the homeland against the arch nemesis who subverts the UK way of life.

The era of the fourth industrial revolution calls for a fourth generation of espionage, Alex Younger will say at St. Andrews University on Monday.

If you want to make a difference and you think you might have what it takes...we hope you will step forward.

To lure young Brits into the spy agency who otherwise might not have seen themselves in MI6, Younger paints an image of a clever arch nemesis Russia which can only be stopped with the help of brilliant young minds from all sorts of backgrounds, not just by the snobbish Oxbridge graduates typically associated with the service.

Also on rt.com A Russian? Must be a spy! UK military, media accuse Russian reporter of snooping

Fresh blood is needed to defend UK web domains against cyber-attacks, the spread of fake news and interference in domestic politics, Alex Younger will say, at the same time praising the old guard for exposing Russia in the highly-controversial Salisbury attack.

Read more

Russia, or any other UK adversary, better not underestimate our determination and our capabilities, or those of our allies, Youngers speech warns.

Hardly historic friends and bitter Cold War rivals, the UK and Russia have seen their relations slip to new lows in March, following the poisoning of ex-Russian double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia. London immediately pinned the blame for the Salisbury incident directly on the Kremlin, and rejected any idea of an open joint investigation with Russia, insisting its own probe would suffice to make the case and then punishing Moscow with sanctions.

Moscow is also perpetually facing accusations of cyberwarfare against other states and attempts to undermine democracy and to influence the political process within those countries. And despite multiple reassurances that Moscow could not care less about the internal political struggles in foreign states, London and British mass media continue to vilify Russia with bizarre reports, like half of London's Russian community are spies for the Kremlin.

Also on rt.com In Her Majesty's service: How UK reportedly pushes anti-Russian propaganda in EU

Claims of Russian meddling look particularly hypocritical in the wake of a leak that exposed the Integrity Initiative  a group that claims to be fighting back against 'Russian misinformation  being a clandestine network of influencers that manipulate European politics with the British government's backing.

The anti-Russia paranoia in the UK arguably reached its peak over the weekend, when military bases across the nation issued security alerts after a Russian TV crew was accused of spying outside the army's secret cyber warfare headquarters.

If you like this story, share it with a friend!One of the worlds key energy producers, Qatar, is quitting the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) on January 1, Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi said. Qatar has been an OPEC member for 57 years.

Qatar has decided to withdraw its membership form OPEC effective January 2019 and this decision was communicated to OPEC this morning, the minister said on Monday at a news conference.

The announcement comes just days before a crucial meeting between the cartels members and its non-OPEC allies. Qatar, the worlds largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), is still planning to take part in the meeting scheduled for December 6 in Vienna.

Read more

Saad al-Kaabi said the countrys impact on OPEC production decisions would be small, as the tiny Gulf state doesnt produce as much crude as other members. According him, Doha will stick to all its commitments like any other non-OPEC oil producer.

The decision is reportedly connected to Qatars plans to concentrate on developing its natural gas sector. It is expected to boost its annual LNG output from 77 million to 110 million tons.

OPEC and its partners have to summon another meeting to reportedly discuss further output caps for 2019. The step is prompted by the recent crash in oil prices. Since reaching its four-year peak in early October, global prices for crude have dropped more than 25 percent.

According to the energy minister, the decision is not connected to the political and economic boycott of Qatar pushed by its powerful neighbor Saudi Arabia since June 2017 and supported by three other Arab nations.

Saudi Arabia and its allies, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Egypt, imposed an economic blockade against Qatar, accusing the Gulf state of backing terrorists and destabilizing the region. The Saudi-led group issued an ultimatum, threatening to maintain the economic pressure unless the country agreed to shut down its state broadcaster, Al Jazeera, expel Turkish troops from its territory, scale back ties with Iran, and end relations with Egypts Muslim Brotherhood movement. Doha rejected the accusations and the list of demands.

For more stories on economy & finance visit RT's business sectionRussias first liquefied natural gas (LNG) import facility in the exclave Kaliningrad on the Baltic Sea is close to start-up, S&P Global Platts reported on Friday, citing vessel tracking data and Asia-based traders.

The region of Kaliningrad, a Russian exclave squeezed in between Poland and Lithuania and without a land or maritime border with Russia, has been receiving natural gas supplies via the Minsk  Vilnius  Kaunas  Kaliningrad transit gas pipeline. Due to the regions location, Russias gas giant Gazprom has been building the Kaliningrad LNG import, storage, and regasification terminal. LNG regasification will be carried out with a floating LNG unit (FLNG), according to Gazproms plans.

Also on rt.com First LNG shipment from Russia's Arctic to arrive in Northern Europe

According to S&P Global Platts vessel tracking and to shipping data provider VesselsValue, a newly built Floating Storage Regasification Unit (FSRU), named Marshal Vasilevskiy, loaded a cargo of LNG at Singapore earlier in November and is heading for delivery.

This Asia-Europe LNG trade flow is a reversal of the typical Atlantic basin-Asia LNG flows. Gazprom must have procured the LNG cargo at an attractive price in order to make the arbitrage from Asia to Europe viable, traders based in Singapore told Platts.

Platts Analytics assumes that the Kaliningrad FSRU will begin operations in January 2019, senior gas analyst Andre Lambine said.

According to Gazprom, the Kaliningrad Region will be able to receive up to 2.7 billion cubic meters of gas per year thanks to the LNG import terminal, which will bolster the regions energy security and make it self-sufficient with natural gas if need be.

Also on rt.com Russia outmaneuvers US on gas supplies to Europe

Ironically, Kaliningrads two land neighborsPoland and Lithuaniaare striving for their own energy security by lessening their dependence on Gazproms pipeline gas. Poland and Lithuania are among the European Unions (EU) most vocal opponents to the Gazprom-led pipeline project Nord Stream 2 from Russia to Germany via the Baltic Sea, and have signed LNG supply deals to import LNG from the United States.

This article was originally published on Oilprice.comTrump seeks Pakistans help with Afghan peace talks, writes letter to PM Khan  minister

Trump seeks Pakistans help with Afghan peace talks, writes letter to PM Khan  minister

US President Donald Trump has sought Pakistans help with Afghan peace talks in a letter to Prime Minister Imran Khan, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said in Islamabad on Monday. Trump wants to end a 17-year-old war between Afghan security forces and the Afghan Taliban militants, who are fighting to drive out international forces. US officials have long been pushing Pakistan to lean on the Taliban leadership, which Washington says is based in the country. Trump has written a letter, Reuters quoted Chaudhry as saying. He has asked for Pakistans cooperation to bring the Taliban into talks. The US embassy in Islamabad has not commented on the letter. Last month, Trump said Pakistan doesnt do a damn thing for the US despite billions of dollars in US aid. Last week, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani formed a 12-strong team to negotiate peace with the Taliban. Ghani warned that implementation of any deal would take at least five years.Source : RT - Daily newsThe global importance of the Chinese yuan seems destined to rise, according to strategists and economists who say flows in the currency will grow over the long term if Beijing continues to gradually open its financial system.

The yuan will become more globally important as China further allows foreign capital into the country through selective financial opening and pursues its Belt and Road Initiative trade, said Chi Lo, senior economist for Greater China at BNP Paribas Asset Management in Hong Kong.

Also on rt.com Ditching dollars: China seals currency swap deal with Indonesia

So if you look along that direction theres no way the yuan can be a weak currency, otherwise people wont accept it and it cannot be a global currency if its a weak currency in the long term, Lo told CNBC on Monday.

Global financial transfer system SWIFT said in its recent monthly report on the yuan that it was the sixth most used currency in domestic and international payments value in October, just behind the Canadian dollar.

According to HSBC, markets have been focused on the trade war between China and the United States as the main factor affecting the yuan. However, Chinas opening of its financial markets is probably the more important and enduring influence on the currency, the bank stated.

The [yuan] will be increasingly driven by capital account flows, and not just trade-related flows, said HSBC.

It pointed out that Chinas financial opening accelerated this year, with portfolio investments by foreigners reaching an all-time high.

The bank expects a significant shift coming as China opens the door further: We believe this is only the beginning of a multi-year trend for portfolio investment rebalancing, globally.

Also on rt.com Chinas yuan strengthens as reserve currency despite trade war while US dollar weakens

The policy of reform and opening up to the outside world was been introduced by the Communist Party 40 years ago. The process has been quite gradual and tightly controlled and that is likely to continue, according to Lo. He called Chinas capital account opening asymmetric, meaning it allows more capital in than that going out.

Chinese authorities clearly want the yuan to play a bigger global role, Qinwei Wang, senior economist at Amundi Asset Management, told reporters in Hong Kong. He cited currency swap arrangements the Peoples Bank of China has reached with other central banks as an example. They can be seen as part of Chinas efforts to improve, increase the acceptance of the [yuans] internationalization, he said.

For more stories on economy & finance visit RT's business section[December 03, 2018] Texas A&M University-San Antonio Adopts SafeZone Indoor Positioning Solution DENVER, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas A&M University-San Antonio (A&M-SA) has become the first university in the world to deploy an Indoor Positioning Solution across its entire campus for the purpose of providing the safest possible environment. The SafeZone indoor positioning solution, provided by CriticalArc, provides the campus police with an unprecedented three-dimensional view of multi-story buildings. For example, instead of receiving an alert about 'an incident somewhere in the student union building', they get pinpoint specifics, such as 'it's on the fourth floor, west wing, outside room 410.' "With indoor positioning and SafeZone, we're able to provide a faster response time, whether it's a medical emergency or an active shooter," says Roger Stearns, A&M-SA's assistant chief of police, featured in this video. The university's Chief of Police Ron Davidson wanted to innovate with this full-coverage system because the campus was expanding, including a newly completed residence hall, which meant having students around the clock for the first time in A&M-SA's history. He was committed to ensuring a safer environment for students, staff and visitors. In addition, Chief Davidson was in search of a common operating view that would provide the Emergency Operations Center and all officers on patrol a real-time locations of all available officers and volunteers, as well as showing the location of all incidents ? essential for coordinating first responders and the Campus Community Emergency Response Team (CCERT). "SafeZone is essential technology to position your organization on the cutting edge of campus law enforcement. The real-time common operating view both enhances officer safety and acts a force multiplier. Plus, the entire police department benefits from advanced features such as heat mapping and incident playback to optimize performance," Davidson said. Texas A&M-San Antonio has adopted the indoor positioning solution as a standard and will deploy it in all future buildings on campus. The solution is fully supported by the University's Information Technology Department and has been assessed for additional applications to enhance the student experience including wayfinding and research by academics in the newly completed Science and Technology Building. SafeZone was easy to deliver with no disruption to the campus. It was deployed in a matter of weeks during the summer break. "The process to get the SafeZone indoor positioning solution deployed is a simple one, as it's a wireless installation and easy to maintain," added Stearns. In addition, organizations can install wireless, wearable duress alarms able to pinpoint anyone anywhere on campus as an alternative to fixed, expensive, wired panic alarms. Among other capabilities, SafeZone allows users to get the most rapid help simply by activating an alert, using an app or a wearable duress alarm. As soon as the alert i triggered, the location and details of the user are streamed to the monitoring team, allowing officers to coordinate a smarter, more targeted response. By enabling responders to visualize the precise location of an incident, anywhere on campus, SafeZone is much more powerful than traditional, fixed panic alarms and blue light telephones, which are more expensive to install and less accurate in operation. Glenn Farrant, Chief Executive Officer, CriticalArc, notes; "I'm delighted by the close partnership between A&M-SA and CriticalArc resulting in this ground-breaking implementation of the SafeZone public safety solution. Chief Davidson and his team are at the forefront of using this technology and we are pleased to be helping them improve the quality of life, and the learning experience, for everyone on their campus." SafeZone is operational in more than 80 countries worldwide, and the indoor positioning solution is commercially available worldwide for a range of university, hospital, enterprise and finance applications. CriticalArc Media Contact: Gerard Laurain

Global Director of Marketing Gerard@CriticalArc.com | 1-720-234-2794 Texas A&M University-San Antonio Media contact: LaMarriol Smith (210) 784-1103 About CriticalArc CriticalArc is a global technology innovator and the creator of the distributed command and control solution, SafeZone, which is used in over 80 countries around the world by dozens of universities and enterprises to help ensure the fastest possible emergency and safety support for students and staff by providing easy, direct access to responders. SafeZone fundamentally changes the way businesses manage safety and security operations across multi-site organizations and dispersed campuses, allowing proactive response that positively impacts the outcome of any incident. Headquartered in Sydney, Australia, CriticalArc has offices and operations in North America and the United Kingdom, providing an international delivery capability and reach. For more information on CriticalArc and SafeZone, please go to www.criticalarc.com, email contact@criticalarc.com or telephone +1 800 985 9402. About Texas A&M University-San Antonio

Established as a standalone university in 2009, Texas A&M University-San Antonio (A&M-SA) is a comprehensive four-year public university that reflects the culturally diverse, heritage-rich community it serves. Situated on nearly 700 acres in South San Antonio, A&M-SA is a Military EmbracingTM institution offering more than 40 undergraduate programs to 6,600 students. Visit tamusa.edu for more information. Social Media Links: CriticalArc Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/safezoneapp LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/criticalarc Twitter: @CriticalArc Texas A&M University-San Antonio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TAMUSanAntonio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/tamusanantonio/ Twitter: @TAMUSanAntonio Related Files CriticalArc Corporate Brochure_North America_220.9 X 284.4mm - FULL copy.pdf CriticalArc-Higher-Education-Solution-Sheet.pdf Related Images ron-davidson-chief-of-police.jpg

Ron Davidson, Chief of Police

Chief Ron Davidson, Texas A&M University-San Antonio texas-a-m-university-san-antonio.jpg

Texas A&M University-San Antonio glenn-farrant-ceo-founder.jpg

Glenn Farrant, CEO & Founder

Glenn Farrant, CEO & Founder, CriticalArc criticalarc.jpg

CriticalArc

Official company logo Related Links Indoor Positioning Solution Video Related Video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ndmRGf3BbI View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/texas-am-university-san-antonio-adopts-safezone-indoor-positioning-solution-300758668.html SOURCE CriticalArc

[ Back To www.mobilitytechzone.com\LTE's Homepage ]The Vietnamese satellite, weighing 50 kilograms, will be launched into orbit along with six other satellites aboard Japans Epsilon rocket, from the Uchinoura Space Centre in Kagoshima Prefecture.

MicroDragon will be separated from the rocket at an altitude of 511 kilometres, according to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

MicroDragon was developed by 36 Vietnamese engineers from the VNSC who studied at Tokyo University, Keio University, Hokkaido University, Tohoku University and the Kyushu Institute of Technology, under the guidance of experts from these institutions, from 2013 to 2017.

The satellite will be used to monitor the quality of coastal seawater for the fishery industry, as well as providing imagery for natural disaster response and climate change mitigation.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.NORRISTOWN  Nearly all results from the 2021 general election were certified Monday by members of the Montgomery County Board of Elections. Several races were on the Nov. 2 ballot including councils, school boards and judgeships. There were a total...Welcome to Morningstar.co.uk!

You have been redirected here from Hemscott.com as we are merging our websites to provide you with a one-stop shop for all your investment research needs.To search for a security, type the name or ticker in the search box at the top of the page and select from the dropdown results.Registered Hemscott users can log in to Morningstar using the same login details. Similarly, if you are a Hemscott Premium user, you now have a Morningstar Premium account which you can access using the same login details.* International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Christine Lagarde on December 1 said there is "an urgent need" to de-escalate trade tensions, reverse recent tariff increases and modernize the rules-based multilateral trade system.

* Chinese President Xi Jinping and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, on December 1 agreed to bring the bilateral ties to a higher level and renewed their pledges to safeguard multilateralism.

* China, France and the United Nations reiterated their firm commitments to working together in combating climate change in a press statement released here on November 30 following a three-party meeting on the sidelines of the Group of 20 (G20) summit.

* Iranian defense minister on December 1 denied that the Islamic republic is supplying arms to Yemen Houthi militants.

* Russian President Vladimir Putin and US leader Donald Trump are unlikely to hold talks in the near future after the latter canceled their scheduled meeting in Argentina, the Kremlin said on December 1.

* US President Donald Trump has had "informal" conversation with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on November 30, said the White House on December 1.

* President Tayyip Erdogan said on December 1 that Turkey's insistence on finding the truth behind the recent killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi was not aimed at damaging the Saudi royal family.

* Russian President Vladimir Putin said on December 1 he had no concrete figures on possible oil output cuts, though his country would continue with its contribution to reducing global production.

* Russian President Vladimir Putin said on December 1 there had been no discussion with Ukraine about the possible release of the Ukrainian sailors who were seized along with their ships by Russia last month.

* US President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel on December 1 exchanged views on trade and security on the sidelines of the Group of 20 (G20) summit in Buenos Aires, according to a statement released by the White House.

* Thousands of people took to the streets in the Irish capital Dublin on December 1 afternoon to protest over the deteriorating housing issue in the country.

* Bahrain has successfully conducted "free and fair" elections, Justice, Islamic, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa said on December 1and is ready of starting (e-voting) in the next elections," said Khalifa in a press conference as polling stations across Bahrain closed on December 1.

* French Interior Minister Christophe Castaner on December 1 said 110 people were injured after a third weekend nationwide social movement, opposing higher tax and poor revenue, turned violent and plunged the world's top tourist destination into chaos.

*Nigeria's electoral body on November 30 green-lighted 73 presidential candidates to run for the February presidency against incumbent President Muhammodu Buhari.

* Indian Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on December 1 granted approval for the acquisition of defense equipment worth INR30 billion (around US$451 million), including indigenous BrahMos missiles for two Indian Navy ships to be built in Russia, said defense sources.Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan are warmly welcomed by Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela and his wife Lorena Castillo Garcia in Panama City Dec. 2, 2018. President Xi Jinping arrived here on Sunday for a state visit to Panama. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

PANAMA CITY, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived here on Sunday for a state visit to Panama, the first of its kind since China and the Central American country established diplomatic relations in June 2017.

Upon their arrival at the airport, Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan were warmly received by Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela and his wife Lorena Castillo Garcia with a grand welcoming ceremony.

Accompanied by Varela, Xi reviewed the guard of honor.

To greet the honored Chinese guests, a group of local people performed dances with distinctive ethnic features. Children waved flowers and national flags of the two countries.

Xi said this is his first visit to Panama, and also the very first time a president of the People's Republic of China to visit the country in history.

On behalf of the Chinese people, he expressed sincere greetings and good wishes to the Panamanian people.

He said with the establishment of diplomatic relations one and a half years ago on the basis of the one-China principle, the two countries' interactions lasting more than 160 years have "turned over a new chapter."

China-Panama relations have started strong with fruitful results in cooperation in various fields, he noted.

Facts have proven that forging diplomatic relations fits the fundamental and long-term interests of the two peoples, he said, adding that there is great potential for future cooperation.

He voiced the expectation that his upcoming talks with Varela will draw blueprint for the development of bilateral relations in the long run, boost mutually beneficial cooperation, promote common development, and benefit the two countries and their people.

Xi arrived in Panama City after wrapping up a trip to Argentina, where he attended the 13th Group of 20 (G20) summit and paid a state visit.

Xi's four-nation trip has also brought him to Spain. He will visit Portugal after Panama.You have made us proud; but ...By UNI

MUMBAI: Adani Transmission Ltd (ATL), the largest private sector power transmission company in India has received the letter of intent (LOI) from PFC Consulting Limited (A wholly owned subsidiary of PFC Corporation Limited) to build, own, operate and maintain the transmission project in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

The project ''Obra-C Badaun Transmission Limited ''has approximately 625 ckt kms of line at voltage levels of 765 kV and 400 kV.

This project is primarily being constructed to establish Transmission System for Evacuation of Power from 2x660MW Obra-C Thermal Power Project with associated transmission lines, company said in a filing with BSE.

This project has been awarded to ATL through Tariff Based Competitive Bidding Process.

With this win, the cumulative transmission network of ATL will reach around 13,548 ckt kms, out of which approximately 9,350 ckt kms are under operation and distribution network of 3 Mn customer.

This is the second win for ATL in the state of Uttar Pradesh and will help the Company reinforce its position as a pan India player and is also expected to bring in the benefits of economies of scale to the business in India.By PTI

MUMBAI: India Ratings and Research Monday affirmed state-run Bank of Baroda's long-term issuer rating at 'AAA', with a stable outlook.

It has also affirmed the lender's short-term issuer rating at 'A1+'.

The long-term issuer rating reflects Bank of Baroda's high systemically important position, and hence, a high probability of support from the government if required, the rating agency said in a note.

The lender continues to be among the better capitalised public sector banks (PSBs), with a common equity tier 1 of 9.05 per cent in the first half of the current fiscal, against 9.23 per cent in FY18.

The agency said its capitalisation could strengthen further if it manages its risk weights and growth, and increases its profitability.

The bank also has an option to raise capital by monetising non-core assets, planned over FY19-FY20, to support its capital requirements, it added.

"The bank is well-placed to gain market share in the current environment, where a sizeable proportion of banks and non-banking financial companies are struggling," the note said.

The lender's asset quality is modest with high delinquencies than similar rated banks, the agency said.

Its gross non-performing assets (NPAs) marginally declined to 11.78 per cent in the first half of FY19, compared with 12.26 per cent in FY18.

The provision coverage excluding technical write-offs was about 62 per cent in the first half of FY19.

The rating agency further said the Bank of Baroda-Dena Bank-Vijaya Bank merger could result in harmonisation of asset recognition.

The bank's had a total deposit market share of 5.3 per cent as on March 31, 2018.

The note said the share would further expand with the proposed merger with Dena Bank and Vijaya Bank.Mihir Sharma By

Bloomberg

Anyone puzzled by how the Indian economy manages to grow swiftly while somehow failing to be prosperous could do worse than look at its airlines. Over the past four years, passenger growth in India has been rapid: The number of flights taken has increased between 15 and 20 per cent per year. Demand growth this year is likely to be the worlds highest. Yet, almost every Indian airline is struggling.

Consider Jet Airways Ltd., Indias oldest private airline. Its suffered losses for three consecutive quarters now; its cumulative current liabilities have climbed to $2.2 billion. It is struggling to pay pilots and has reportedly failed to make payments to the owners of its leased aircraft. Its even been difficult for it to pay airport fees. Another airline, SpiceJet Ltd., has been in the red for two quarters and is also delaying payments to the Airports Authority of India. And even the market leader, the much admired IndiGo, declared a quarterly loss recently for the first time since going public in 2015.

It is easy, perhaps, to blame the sectors fragility on variables beyond airlines control. When the price of fuel goes up, Indian airlines make losses; when the rupee depreciates, Indian airlines make losses. And, of course, aviation worldwide is famously crisis-prone. But theres something special, surely, about Indian aviation, which seems to be in a nosedive even as demand is growing faster than anywhere else.

The truth is that the sector has also been weakened thanks to a combination of errors by both the private sector and, crucially, the government. Companies have lobbied as if their lives depended on it; governments have intervened as if their reelections depended on it. The consequence is that, for decades now, market forces have been stifled in the sector.

Even Jet Airways has profited in the past off government action. 24 per cent owned by Abu Dhabi-based Etihad PJSC, it benefited hugely from a controversial decision by the government to multiply the number of seats permitted between Indian airports, and Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This gentle treatment was notably different than that handed out to Jets biggest domestic rival for a decade, Vijay Mallyas Kingfisher Airlines, which was denied the right to stop and refuel its long-haul flights in the Gulf  something that would have sharply reduced fuel bills and perhaps kept it flying longer.

Government intervention is also stifling the future of the sector. Connecting smaller towns and making short-haul flights profitable is central to its hopes. Yet the government has insisted on a populist and uneconomic $35 price cap for such flights. Few airlines have been interested  and those that were discovered that metropolitan airports would prefer to give their scarce landing slots to bigger and more remunerative jets. Unsurprisingly, the new scheme to connect smaller airports seems to have crashed before it took off, with airline licenses cancelled left and right.

And then, of course, theres the elephant in the sky: state-owned Air India, which lumbers along adding to losses. Every year, the airline puts taxpayers deeper in debt. Worse is its malign influence on the sector as a whole. After all, its tough for any private airline to raise fares when one of its competitors seems to have no real budget constraint and can keep fares at whatever seems politically acceptable.

Jet is looking for investors now. Etihad  which is bleeding cash itself  might have to step up. Nobody else looks really interested, and definitely not unless they win a controlling stake; nobody was interested in buying Air India either when the government put it up for sale this year. The Tata Group, which already runs one airline  Vistara  has reportedly been interested in both, but thats because it has had an obsession ever since Tata Airlines was nationalised in the 1950s and turned into Air India. Unless you are a little obsessed or already invested in the sector, whos going to want to run an airline in India?

The troubles of its aviation business are a microcosm of how the Indian economy works. From the outside, everything should be going its way  strong demand, smart companies, sound fundamentals. But a combination of private sector overconfidence and government intervention means that its just too difficult to make sustained profits here. (The writer is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. Views expressed are personal)

Jet Airways to opt out of seven Gulf routes

Jet Airways is withdrawing its flight services on as many as seven Gulf routes from this month, news agency PTI reported sources as saying on Sunday. The airline is expected to halt operations of as many as 39 services per week to Doha, Muscat, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the report added.Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) meets with his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Dec. 1, 2018. President Xi attended a working dinner with President Trump in Buenos Aires on Saturday. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

BUENOS AIRES, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump held a "highly successful meeting" here Saturday, reaching important consensus and agreeing not to impose new additional tariffs.

The two heads of state had an in-depth exchange of views on China-U.S. relations and international issues of common concern in a friendly and candid atmosphere at a working dinner after the conclusion of the 13th summit of the Group of 20 in Argentina.

Sound China-U.S. relations, Xi said, are in line with the fundamental interests of the two peoples and the broad-based expectations of the international community.

He called on both China and the United States to handle the development of bilateral relations from an overall perspective and push for long-term, healthy and stable development of bilateral ties.

Trump said that he agrees with Xi on his evaluation of U.S.-China relations.

U.S.-China relations are very special and important, Trump said, adding that it is in the interest of the two countries as well as the world that the United States and China, both countries of significant influence, maintain a good cooperative relationship.

The U.S. side, he added, is ready to increase cooperation with China through consultations and actively seek mutually beneficial solutions to their problems.

The two leaders agreed to expand cooperation based on reciprocity and mutual benefit and manage differences based on mutual respect, so as to jointly advance China-U.S. relations with coordination, cooperation and stability as the defining features.

They also agreed to maintain exchanges in various forms to jointly chart the course for the development of China-U.S. relations, and pledged to hold further exchanges of visits at an appropriate time.

It was the first meeting between Xi and Trump since the U.S. president paid a state visit to China in November last year. The world, Xi said, has witnessed a lot of changes since then.

As two major countries with great influence, China and the United States shoulder important responsibilities in promoting world peace and prosperity, Xi told Trump.

Cooperation is the best choice for China and the United States, he said.

On economic and trade issues, Xi said that it is very normal that the two countries have some disagreements in the fields of economy and trade, adding that the key is to manage their differences properly and work out a solution acceptable to both sides in the spirit of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit.

They agreed not to impose new additional tariffs, and instructed the economic teams of both sides to step up negotiations toward the removal of all additional tariffs and reach a concrete deal that is mutually beneficial and win-win.

Xi also reiterated China's stance on the Taiwan issue and the U.S. side pledged to continue to adhere to the one-China policy.

The two leaders also exchanged views on the Korean Peninsula situation and other major international and regional issues.

The meeting lasted for two and a half hours, much longer than planned, said Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi at a briefing on the ly-watched Xi-Trump meeting.

"The meeting was very successful and produced important consensus. It provides direction for China-U.S. relations in the time to come," Wang said.

In a White House press release, Trump was quoted as saying that this was an amazing and productive meeting with unlimited possibilities for both the United States and China.

"It is my great honor to be working with President Xi," Trump said.

Experts said that the important meeting sends a positive signal in the development of China-U.S. relations, one of the most important bilateral ties in the world.

It suggests that cooperation is the key to the solution of problems, said Zhu Feng, a professor with the School of International Studies at Peking University, adding that given the differences between China and the United States in institutions, industrial policies and markets, Xi and Trump have demonstrated strategic courage and resolution at the dinner table.

Berthold Kuhn, a China expert with the Free University of Berlin, noted that the meeting was "a first step" toward the settlement of China-U.S. trade disputes and more time is still needed for negotiation.

"I am ... slightly optimistic," he said.SV Krishna Chaitanya By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: IIT Madras was in the centre of a raging controversy after a hostel office allegedly put the details of a student caught with used condoms inside his room on the notice board.

The incident, which took place last week, has irked students, who are up-in-arms calling it a violation of their privacy and dignity.

During a vigilance check at Brahmaputra men's hostel, authorities stumbled upon several banned items like iron boxes, egg boiler, electric kettle, water cooler, mini fridge, water heater rod, etc. But in one room, the squad found 20 cigarette butts, matchboxes and used condoms in the dustbin.

The hotel office, besides imposing a fine of Rs 5,000, has allegedly chosen to publicly shame the student for possessing condoms. Express accessed the hostel notice where the name of the student, details of items found in his hostel room, were mentioned.

Students alleged that the vigilance officers barged into their rooms, clicked pictures without consent and insulted them. A female student told the Express that there has been rampant harassment and moral policing prevalant in the campus. A student survey conducted last year, which documented moral policing revealed harrowing tales. "A vigilance security officer asked if the room and bed was comfortable enough when I was at a boy's hostel during their visit," a student said in her testimony.

Meanwhile, Sriram K Kompella, Student General Secretary, has appealed to the students to bring grievances, if any, before the Student Legislative Council (SLC). "Vigilance staff have been sensitised about being polite and to make sure the privacy and dignity of the student are maintained. Photos, if taken, are only for proof of violation. At no cost, Dean, Students Office, or hostel management office has and would indulge in insulting any student," he said.

The Dean Students' office refuting allegations, said, "No hostel office has done this act of publishing student details on the notice board. The institute will enquire further about this deviation, if any at all."By Online Desk

CHENNAI: A 57-year-old policeman, who was attached to city's Madhavaram Milk Colony police station, has been arrested under POCSO after he was caught flashing at a 10-year-old schoolgirl in Villivakkam. He is yet to be suspended.

Special Sub Inspector K Vasu, who was to retire in 4 months, would stand near a government school in Villivakkam every evening and make lewd gestures at students when they leave school. A 10-year-old girl recently complained about him to her parents, when she saw him making obscene gestures towards her on Saturday, as per TNIE inputs.

However, her parents ignored her complaints. On Sunday, a group of youngsters caught Vasu in the act and chased him. The policeman managed to flee the spot in his bike. Later, the youths caught him at SIDCO Nagar and thrashed him. Some of the local residents then alerted the police who took the youths along with the accused to the nearby police station.

After questioning, the cops transferred the case to Villivakkam All Womens Police Station. Meanwhile, the girls parents lodged a complaint and approached senior police officers alleging that cops at Villivakkam police station had let off the accused.

"Vasu will be suspended soon after a report which is expected by Monday evening," said C Kalaiselvan, Deputy Commissioner of Police under whose jurisdiction Madhavaram Milk Colony falls.

The women cops have registered a case under relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO). They remanded the accused to judicial custody. Further investigation is on.Ritwika Mitra By

Express News Service

DELHI: The Delhi police has failed to register an FIR or act on complaints filed by EDMC AAP councillors against their BJP counterparts who allegedly assaulted them and made anti-Dalit remarks at a house meeting on November 29, said AAP leader Atishi on Sunday.

The AAP claimed this exposed the anti-Dalit face of the BJP.

The party also claimed that the East Delhi Municipal Corporation was one of the most corrupt institutions. She also alleged the BJP was extorting money when people tried to avail any service and was engaged in the embezzlement of the corporation funds, alleged Atishi. In case of any civic issue like constructing a house, or getting death certificates, the BJP would not let people access any service without having them to pay a bribe for it, she alleged.

She also accused the EDMC of poor maintenance of areas under its jurisdiction and said that they have not taken up any cleaning drives.

The AAP leader said the BJP members started verbally abusing AAP councillor when they were questioned by the latter on different scandals in the House. They apparently later beat the councillor up too, AAP claimed. They alleged the police has refused to act on the complaint so far as AAP members are at the receiving end of it.

They claimed there were repeated attempts to abuse AAP members. The party has also demanded that action should be taken on the party member who made anti-Dalit remarks.By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The HRD Ministry has informed all schools in India that expenses incurred on books, uniform and transport for children with disabilities will be reimbursed by the government. Minister of State for HRD Satyapal Singh, while speaking at an award ceremony on Sunday, said that just one per cent of all disabled children go to school and the way forward was to empower them.

Specially challenged people just do not need courtesy and compassion, but real empowerment which would come through education. How to ensure it is a big challenge, he said at the Helen Keller Awards, 2018. The event was organised by the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People and Mindtree.

Singh said the Centre had given directions to all schools in the country that all expenditure incurred on books, uniform and transport will be reimbursed by the government.

He said that a girl child will be given J200 per month. Also, a minimum of 5 per cent seats will be reserved for children with disabilities from this academic session, added Singh. He reiterated that its a priority for the government to make sure that the rights of the specially challenged people are ensured.

In my capacity as minister for higher education, I commit my support to ensure accessibility, in all respects across all our institutes of higher education, so that more and more people with disabilities will break the glass ceiling as employees, employers and entrepreneurs, said Singh.By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: An fir was lodged against an aide to an AAP MLA on Sunday after a video showing him beating up a young boy with a police baton went viral, police said.

In the video, Saurabh Jha, an associate of Aam Aadmi Party MLA Rituraj Govind, is seen thrashing a boy named Vikas, who was allegedly involved in molesting a woman on the occasion of Chhath Puja. A policeman is seen asking Jha to stop, but two other cops stand as mute spectators.

Jha, who runs an NGO in the Kirari area and has been associated with the AAP since its inception in 2012, said that Vikas and other boys in the locality had created a ruckus.

According to police, several criminal cases have been registered against Vikas in the past. Two years ago, his brother Judi was named in a gang-rape case. He is out on parole, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Rajender Singh Sagar said.

The officer said that the incident captured in the video had occurred two weeks ago.

On November 14, Vikas, his brother Judi and Monu, along with their friends, had molested a lady at the Chhath Puja Sthal of Hind Vihar Colony.

Vikas tried to flee when he saw policemen approaching. He was chased until he reached a pool of dirty water near a rail track. A mob of 40 to 50 persons started beating him. The police saved him from the mob and took him to the police station, the officer said.

A case under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code was registered against Vikas, Monu and others on the basis of allegations made by the lady.

Jha said that his NGO works to create awareness about womens safety. A bunch of boys had created a ruckus in the area. On the sacred occasion of Chhath also they were involved in harassing a girl. I was compelled to take action. Having said that, I would stress that it wasnt correct on my part to take the law in my hands, the AAP worker told this newspaper.

Rituraj Govind supported what his aide had done but said he shouldnt have taken the law into his own hands.

No mercy shown

In the clip which was widely circulated, Vikas is seen without his shirt. He is heard begging Jha to stop his suffering. But, Jha continues to mercilessly thrash him



Counter charges

The family members of Vikas claimed that he was a victim to personal enmity. They went to allege that the AAP workers had demanded Rs 25 lakh from them to clear Vikass brothers name in a gang-rape case, registered two years ago. Since they refused to comply with his demand, Jha thrashed Vikas.By Express News Service

HYDERABAD: Owing to the Western part of Hyderabad getting extensively cluttered due to the booming of IT industry, TRS leader and IT minister in the caretaker government KT Rama Rao said that they have planned to extend the corporate corridor to other parts of the city after the elections. Rama Rao was addressing chief executive officers, business persons and IT employees from various IT and corporate firms at the Spirit of Hyderabad programme organised by CEO Clubs India in Madhapur on Saturday.

The State government has begun to look East. We intend to decentralise the IT growth centres and spread them across the city, especially, in Uppal, Pocharam, and LB Nagar. In fact, we are providing incentives to companies so that they are encouraged to start their businesses in these regions, he said.

The leader added that this growth would not only be directed towards the Eastern part of the city but also to parts of Kompally. We are going to build something huge and substantial in Kompally, he said.Rama Rao, while acknowledging the crumbling roads, traffic snarls, and rising pollution levels in the city, said that the government has envisioned Hyderabad as the first city in India to bring down pollution levels  both vehicular and industrial  by replacing pollutant vehicles with electric ones.

We want to replace more than 3800 Telangana State Road Transport Corporation buses that currently spit out thick smoke all over the place.Listing out his plans for Hyderabad, KTR said that they want to pave way for better roads by improving the drainage and sewerage system, bring down the citys pollution levels, and provide better public transportation system.

Further, he said that the government intends to open more Metro lines from Chandanagar to Lakdikapul.

Admitting that he was not a huge fan of conducting road shows and causing traffic jams across the city, the leader said that people would not take note of what he was saying unless he did it at the top of his voice standing atop a vehicle. I dont really enjoy getting on top of a vehicle and shouting at the top of my voice. In fact, I find it very inconvenient, he added.Aathira Haridas By

Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: David Alexandru from Romania made his first trip to Kerala four years ago. He spent nine days exploring northern Kerala. At that time, he had arrived after participating in the painting competition held in memory of child prodigy Edmund Thomas Clint. There he was so smitten by the sights he encountered, that once home, he filled his canvas with the different facets of the state. Ever since, he has been painting about Kerala and promoting Kerala Tourism's International Children's Painting Competition (held in honour of Clint) through his social media page. He has become a poster boy of sorts for the International Children's Painting Competition and was here in the city.

For David, who started drawing at the age of six, Clint is an enigma. I was wondering what would it be like if Clint were alive now. Clint drew all these pictures in just three years. He had very huge talent. I feel special to promote the competition in memory of Clint, he says.

13-year-old David, who resides at Lasi in Romania, has won many awards and has held several exhibitions. This time, he spent eight days in the state, making memories and sketching. But the dearest of all memories is his visit to Clint's parents. The young artist was so captivated by Clint's work, that he wanted to visit Clint's parents.

The house was full of the paintings made by Clint. I was really impressed, of how a six-year-old could draw this good. He had big talent, says David, who spent half a day at Clint's place, interacting with the parents, watching the works of Clint.

"Clint's parents gifted me a book about Clint. I gave them a drawing about a boy who put a heart in a backpack and who went to see the world. I wanted to give them something and I thought this was the perfect gift I could give. I drew that on the plane while coming here, says David. David also visited Clint's resting place and offered flowers. David says Kerala is so different from all the places he has seen. Once he reached home after the last trip, his canvas burst with the exotic landscapes of Kerala. He shared them through his social media page.

Those who saw these paintings liked it because what was pictured in them was different, he says. This time, he says he intends to do sketches about the sights he encountered while here in the state.David says that he also intends to reproduce one of Clint's work and then gift it to Clint's parents. Kerala has enamoured the Romanian kid to such lengths that he says, "If I can just empty all other memories to fill my heart with the memories of Kerala, I would do that".By Express News Service

BHOPAL: Controversy over alleged lapses in handling electronic voting machines (EVMs) during and after the November 28 assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh doesnt seem to be ending.

Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) chief Kamal Nath on Monday questioned the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s silence over these alleged lapses.

Slamming the BJP for criticising the Congress over raising the issue over the last two days, Nath asked why the BJP was silent over the recent developments. The recently alleged lapses include poll staff staying at a hotel along with EVMs in Shujalpur town just a few hours before the start of voting, EVMs reaching strong-rooms/warehouses 48 hours after polling in Sagar and Khargone districts, a difference of 56 votes detected after voting at a polling booth in Anuppur and an electrical issue causing CCTV cameras and LED display screen outside the strong room in Bhopal to stop functioning.

READ| Madhya Pradesh Election HIGHLIGHTS: Amidst EVM snag, polling concludes with 75 per cent turn out till 6 pm

We question the deliberate silence of the BJP over these developments. Let the BJP remain deliberately silent over it, well continue to raise the developments, said Nath.

His response came a day after the BJP slammed the Congress for raising the issue. The BJP had attacked the Congress, saying that apprehending defeat in the polls, the opposition party was making baseless allegations about EVM tampering and lapses in handling of EVMs.

Senior Congress leaders, including Nath and Jyotiraditya Scindia have been asking party workers and candidates to maintain vigils outside strong rooms and warehouses in all the 51 districts, where the used and unutilized EVMs have been stored.

Rajkumar Mev, sitting BJP MLA who contested as an Independent on the Maheshwar seat in Khargone district has also been keeping guard outside the strong room in Khargone district along with his supporters.

Mev was expelled from the ruling party for six years after he filed his nomination as an Independent.

Meanwhile, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO-MP) VL Kantha Rao allayed all apprehensions regarding the safety of both used and unutilized EVMs. All safety protocols, including three-tier security at strong rooms and warehouses is being ensured in all the districts. Also, arrangements of tents have been made outside the strong rooms to render comfort to all candidates and their workers if they wish to stay there till the machines are actually opened on the December 11 morning for counting of votes, the CEO MP said on Monday.

The CEO also ordered a probe after a video of Rewa district collector Preeti Maithil emerged on social media. In the video, the collector is reportedly heard saying shoot anyone found moving around the strong room to CRPF forces guarding the strong room went viral over social media.Santwana Bhattacharya By

Express News Service

TONK: Ironies abound in this town, an unusual one in Rajasthan for its more Muslim townscape. The paradoxes run much deeper than the symbolism of the Congress fielding Sachin Pilot, its state chief and first non-Muslim candidate here, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) fielding its lone Muslim face, Yunus Khan, minister in Vasundhara Raje Cabinet.

Thanks to the clash of these heavyweights, both outsiders, the excitement is palpable in the assembly seat, abutting the Aravali hills. Had anyone  from the civic authorities to any past member of the assembly  had any imagination or funding, Tonk could easily be turned into a lovely little nook of a holiday getaway. But, at present, the debate is over the Rs 2,000 crore that was apparently sanctioned to do up the roads.

Nothing of that is visible though  its dusty, derelict, dirty and waiting breathlessly for someone to put it back on the map of reckoning. A train to a future Tonk.

Its around these dreams of a train line and also hope of the reopening of the small industrial units here that the ironies play out. The Muslim majority seat, with roughly 55,000 votes of the community, followed by 42,000 Scheduled Caste (SC) votes and 24,000 Gujjars, is witnessing what can be called the most unique contest and campaigning this election.

The Muslim community, particularly the youngsters, are rooting for a Hindu candidate. Sachin bhaiyya aage badho, hum tumhare saath hai (Sachin, lead us, we are with you), and the BJP karyakartas (workers), the now-famous panna pramukhs  Amit Shahs foot soldiers  included, are campaigning for a Muslim candidate, Tonk ka neta, tumhaara neta, Yunus Khan, Yunus Khan (Tonks leader is your leader).

Hum toh kattar Congress hain. Hamara vote aur kisi ko nahi milne wala (We are diehard Congress supporters. Our vote will not go to anyone else), say a group of Ansari boys, working for a tyre-cum-motor mechanic outlet. Kattar (diehard) is not a word usually associated with the Congress or its supporters, but in Tonk, ironically, the word is being used for a rather public pledging of votes to Pilot against the BJPs tactical fielding of Khan.

The owner of the outlet, Sharmaji, laughingly waves off the contention of his boys to assert nahin nahin Yunus Khan hi jeetega, inka sunna nahin (dont listen to them, only Khan will win).

BJP district general secretary Deepak Sangat, anchoring the campaign, is far more candid about the voters dilemma. All our lives, weve worked and campaigned for a certain ideology, a worldview, to build the party here. Now, we are telling our people to take a different view, to vote differently, keeping 2019, Modiji and the seat of power in Jaipur in view. During the time of voting, our hearts will certainly tremble.

But so would theirs (Muslims). What do you think, they are not unhappy? Unka ticket cut ho gaya, Sachin Pilot bahar se aa gaye (an outsider has been foisted on them, instead of a Muslim). Just as the Muslims in Tonk are seen to be pro-Congress, because the Nawab of Tonk had joined the party in the pre-Independence days, the Mahajans, particularly in the villages, are seen as the ruling partys backbone.

From the Valmiki community, Sangat claims the BJP would make up for not getting more than 20,000 Muslim votes (the general consensus though, is that Khan wont be able to break away more than 15,000, because of his last-minute entry into the fray) with the Dalit votes. Weve most of them in our fold, except for the Berwars (the Jatavs). Our strategy is to get them also...



As Khan mounts a door-to-door campaign in the villages, his party banks on its past record. The sitting BJP MLA, Ajit Singh Mehta, won by a margin of 35,000 votes in 2013.

But the Congresss Rajeev Shukla, holding fort while Pilot campaigns in the rest of the state, brushes aside such calculations. He says the Gujjars (Sachins community)  plus the Muslims, in fact most of the community, are solidly behind the Congress.

A police officer, who did not want to be named, claims that the Congress is being aided by the voters aspiration for change, plus the Pilot factor. However, its a tough contest. Not a walkover for either of the candidates. One of the reasons: the rumour mill has it that Pilot was given the seat so as to tie him down in a bitter contest.

Well, one thing is beyond conjecture  theres no communal tension in Tonk this time, because of the nature of the contest. Ironies never cease.By PTI

JODHPUR: Launching a stinging attack against the Congress for questioning his knowledge on Hinduism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday used the dynast-worker analogy to ask the opposition party where it got its expertise on the religion.

Addressing an election rally in this Rajasthan town, the Prime Minister said in a sarcastic jibe that he was a small "kaamdar" (worker) who never claimed to have full knowledge of Hinduism but the "naamdar" (dynast) has the right to speak.

Modi has often referred to Congress president Rahul Gandhi as "naamdar".

He also brought up India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and first president Rajendra Prasad.

ALSO READ | Ram Bhakt Rahul Gandhi unveils Congresss Hindutva poll plan in Madhya Pradesh

Nehru objected to Prasad's visit for the consecration of Somnath temple, which was destroyed by foreign invaders and renovated by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the prime minister told the gathering ahead of elections in the state on December 7.

The country, he said, was celebrating Prasad's birth anniversary.

The Congress, Modi alleged, has become a university for spreading lies.

People who lie more get new posts in the party, he said.

Rahul Gandhi, he asserted, has great capacity for speaking lies.

"The Congress' dreams have been crushed in all states. This will happen in Rajasthan also," he said.

The opposition party thinks it can come to power because of the trend in Rajasthan of alternate parties forming a government but this will be proved wrong in the upcoming state elections, Modi declared.Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) meets with his Argentine counterpart Mauricio Macri in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Dec. 2, 2018. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

BUENOS AIRES, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with his Argentine counterpart Mauricio Macri here Sunday, and the two leaders agreed to jointly open up a new era of the comprehensive strategic partnership between their countries.

Xi arrived here Thursday to attend the 13th Group of 20 (G20) summit and pay a state visit to the South American country.

Xi said that he and Macri, meeting five times in less than three years, created a record in the history of bilateral ties, and that China-Argentina relations are witnessing unprecedented breadth and depth.

Under the current complicated and rapidly-changing international circumstances, the two countries should chart the course of their relations with a broader vision, and work together to open up a new era of their comprehensive strategic partnership and make new contributions to peace, stability and prosperity in both countries and the world at large, he added.

The two sides should support each other on issues concerning their core interests and on their independent choices of development paths, said Xi.

China has taken concrete actions this year to support Argentina maintaining financial stability and has faith in Argentina's growth prospects, he added.

He suggested that the two sides strengthen communication and cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and synergize their development plans.

The two sides should also strengthen cooperation in such areas as infrastructure, agriculture, energy and finance and enhance people-to-people exchanges, Xi said.

Both China and Argentina are major developing countries and emerging-market economies, and they should work jointly to support multilateralism and an open, inclusive global economy, he added.

China, he said, is ready to work with Argentina to strengthen coordination within multilateral frameworks, deepen South-South cooperation, enable more developing countries to enjoy the benefits of economic globalization, and build a community with a shared future for mankind.

Despite the current challenges facing Latin America, China is full of confidence in the growth prospects of the region and will work with partners in the region, including Argentina, to foster a China-Latin America relationship for the new era featuring equality, mutual benefit, innovation, openness and tangible benefits for the people, said Xi.

Xi also congratulated Macri on the successful G20 summit, saying that the event was of great significance as it sent a strong signal on upholding multilateralism.

The consensus reached at the convention is conducive to efforts in safeguarding the multilateral trading system and building an open global economy, and also helps inject confidence and vitality into the global market, said Xi.

Macri warmly welcomed Xi for his visit to Argentina and thanked China for its long-term assistance and support to his country.

He congratulated China, upon the 40th anniversary of its reform and opening-up, on its enormous achievements in social and economic development, poverty alleviation and other fields.

Calling China a major engine driving the world economy, Macri said China's development and the realization of the Chinese Dream bear major significance to the development of Argentina and Latin America, and carry profound meaning to world peace, stability and prosperity.

Argentina is firmly committed to deepening its comprehensive strategic partnership with China and strengthening cooperation within the Belt and Road framework, Macri said.

In recent years, Argentina and China have enhanced mutual trust, with frequent exchanges in various fields, Macri said, stressing that bilateral cooperation has entered a new stage of mutual benefits and win-win results.

Recalling Argentina's successful participation in the first China International Import Expo in Shanghai, the president said his country looks forward to further exploring the Chinese market.

Argentina, he said, hopes to take the signing of a joint action plan for the next five years as an opportunity to expand cooperation in such fields as agriculture, finance, aviation and infrastructure construction, and promote exchanges in cultural and people-to-people fields such as tourism and sports.

Argentina also welcomes Chinese companies to expand investment in the country, he added.

Macri said he appreciates Xi's support for the just concluded G20 summit, adding that it is critical to the success of the summit.

Argentina is willing to carry out r coordination and cooperation with China on multilateral affairs, he said.

The two leaders witnessed the signing of a joint action plan as well as multiple bilateral cooperation documents.

The two sides also issued a joint declaration, in which they reviewed the development of bilateral relations and set out priorities for future cooperation.By Express News Service

HYDERABAD: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi had to give a lesson in history for Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who claimed that the Nizam was chased out of Hyderabad. He is weak in history and his statements reflect PM Narendra Modis thought, Owaisi said while reacting to Adityanaths statements that Owaisi would be chased out of Hyderabad when BJP comes to power.

If you dont read... If you are bad in history... you should have asked someone who is well read. Then, you would have known that Nizam did not leave. He was made the Rajpramukh. When India went into war with China, Nizam donated his golds to fund the Army,

If you are willing, then I can take you to the Nizams grave. But who knows, you might change its name too, he mocked at Adityanaths efforts to rename places in Uttar Pradesh.Responding to personal attacks, Owaisi said: It is my religious belief that when Prophet Adam descended on Earth from Paradise, he came to India. Thus, Hindustan is my fathers country. I am and will remain a Hindustani Muslim. Nobody can chase me out of here. He asked Adityanath to address issues in his own State first. Every year hundreds of children die in Adityanaths constituency of encephalitis. There is no oxygen in the hospitals of Gorakhpur. Instead of addressing these issues, you are here... he mocked.

Earlier too, the duo had heated exchanges. Yogi Adityanaths recent statement that the Congress needs just the votes of Muslims, had irked Owaisi.You keep your Ali, for us Bajrang Bali will be enough, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister had reportedly said. Owaisi hit back then saying: Ali is a successor of the Prophet Muhammad.Naveen Kumar Tallam By

Express News Service

KARIMNAGAR: THE TRS, BJP and Congress candidates contesting in Karimnagar have a lot at stake. With the fight tighter than ever, for TRS Gangula Kamalakar, BJPs Bandi Sanjay Kumar and Congress Ponnam Prabhakar the elections are not only about winning the seat but also about making or breaking their political futures.

Considering that Bandi Sanjay Kumar has never held a position of power in any government so far, it is highly likely that his future in politics would become unstable if loses this years polls.

TRS MLA Gangula Kamalakarwho had won the 2009 and 2014 Assembly electionson the other hand, has much to lose if he gets toppled off his seat. In addition to losing his credibility as an MLA, Kamalakar would most likely face friction from within the party as well. Meanwhile, some are claiming that Congress candidate Ponnam Prabhakar has not been employing proper strategies towards winning votes.By PTI

GADWAL: Congress president Rahul Gandhi Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and caretaker Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao of striking a "partnership" to ensure the continuation of the BJP and TRS rule at the Centre and in the state respectively.

"The TRS's aim is to ensure that Narendra Modi remains the prime minister of India, the BJP continues to rule the country and KCR (as Rao is referred to by many) rules in Telangana," he said at an election rally here.

Over the last four-and-a-half years, KCR had supported the Modi government on various occasions, Gandhi said, referring to the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) backing the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) nominees in the presidential and vice-presidential elections.

Besides, Rao had also praised demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) "under pressure", he claimed.

ALSO READ | Modi, KCR, Owaisi are one, don't be fooled by them: Rahul Gandhi to people of Telangana

"You have to remember that there is a partnership between the TRS and Narendra Modi and they are working together," the Congress chief said, adding, "We will ensure the defeat of the TRS in Telangana and Modi's BJP in Delhi (in the 2019 Lok Sabha election)."

He also accused KCR of redesigning the Rs 10,000-crore Palamuru-Ranga Reddy Lift Irrigation scheme into a Rs 60,000-crore project to benefit his friends and family, adding that the people of the state did not get water.

"Thousands of crores of rupees went to his (Rao's) contractor friends and his family.

"KCR has been redesigning one project after another in the last five years and the people have given him a new name. Every child knows his new name. It is 'Khao Commission Rao," Gandhi alleged.

When the state was formed five years ago, people had a dream of a new Telangana and a brighter future of "neelu" (water), "nidhulu" (funds) and "niyamakalu" (appointments) and of a "Bangaru Telangana" (Golden Telangana), he said.

"KCR became the chief minister and only one family ruled the state. Your dreams were shattered. KCR betrayed you on (the promise of) water," the Congress chief said, adding that under the TRS rule, the "Golden Telangana" dream had led to a "golden kutumbam" (golden family).

The Congress is contesting the Telangana Assembly polls, leading a four-party "People's Front", while the TRS and the BJP are going it alone.

The 119-member Telangana Assembly will go to polls on December 7 and the results will be announced on December 11.Ranjan Das Gupta By

Express News Service

Dev Anands last words to me in November, 2011 were, London Ja Raha Hun. Ake Tujh Se Milta Hun. Hearing the news of his sad demise seven years ago, I broke down. Even today he remains my Dev Anand, my hero who created the journalist in me. Today, I share with you, some of my experiences with him on the occasion of his seventh death anniversary.

Nattily dressed Dev Anand walked briskly into his Khira Nagar office at Santacruz, Mumbai. Mr. Gupta what can I do for you. How do I know you are a journalist? These were his first words to me. I showed him my identity proof of the film weekly I just joined. I received the first interview of my journalists career. My job knew no bounds as I interviewed my favourite hero.

I still have fresh reminiscences of Dev Anand shooting Awal Number at National Park, Borivali. He was disciplined, involved in his work yet caring. In the days to come he was my Devsaab and I his Ranjan. Through work we developed an emotional relation. Devsaab personally asked me to interact with his illustrious brothers, Chetan and Vijay. He genuinely felt they would enlighten me.

My rapport with the Anand brothers helped the journalist in me to grow. I learnt many aspects of their films and also came in personal contact with Devsaabs reclusive wife Kalpana Kartik. Devsaab admitted late Guru Dutt and Rajkhosla were his true friends.

Our discussions varied from cinema to literature to music. I cried remembering his lip synching to Sawan Ke Mahine Mein in Sharabi. Devsaab said, Are Are. Tu Ro Diya. Dont be silly. There were occasions when Debvsaab helped me come out of crisis. There were times when we strongly differed. He was rude and even banged the phone at times. Yet the next day he was his usual self."

The author writes on films, among other things.

A Sharadhaa By

Express News Service

A known name in south India and Bollywood, Ravi Varma will be marking his directorial debut with Rustum. And coming with decades of experience as stunt master, its no surprise that Ravi is working on bringing the best stunts in his first-ever directorial.

The film starring Shivarajkumar is in the last leg of shoot, and will resume the last schedule in Bihar from today. Sharing the latest photographs from the film with us, Ravi says that the first week or so of the last schedule will solely focus on getting the fight sequence right, the cost of which is estimated to be over a crore. We also hear that the director plans to blow up a few high octane chase sequences with the lead actor.

This particular sequence, which is slotted for the first part of the second half of the film, involves heavy vehicles  cars and tempo travellers  and will be shot with four cameras from different angles. We are also making use of drones. With this we will be done with the films shoot. This for sure, will be one of the best stunt sequences of Shivarajkumar in his career, he further reveals.

In addition to Shivarajkumar, Vivek Oberoi, Ganesh Yadav and 25 other artistes will participate in the shoot. They will be joined by a few stuntmen from Bihar. In Rustum, Shivarajkumar plays a cop, while Vivek is seen in a pivotal role. Actors from across different statesincluding Ganesh Yadav from B-Town, Mahendran from Kollywood, Harish Uthaman from Telugu and our very own actor-director Shivamani  will be spotted in the film.

Made under Jayanna Productions, with music by Anoop Seelin and cinematography by Mahendra Simha, the ensemble also consists of three heroines - Shraddha Srinath, Mayuri and Rachita Ram.By ANI

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday decided to hear actor Dileep's plea on December 11; he had approached the top court seeking a copy of the digital evidence of the alleged assault of a noted south Indian actress, in which he is facing trial.

A bench of Justices AM Khanwilkar and Hemant Gupta said they will see if the memory card, containing the clip, is "material or document" which is part of police report under the Evidence Act. The bench said it will also consider provisions under the Information and Technology Act.

ALSO READ: Court releases actor Dileeps passport

During the hearing, the apex court asked senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the Malayalam actor, whether the memory card of a mobile is "document" under section 207 of Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and if it can be supplied to Dileep.

Rohatgi sought time to prove that the memory card is a document under section 207 of CrPC, after which the court posted the matter for December 11.

The top court also expressed agreement with Kerala High Court's observations, that the video of the alleged assault is too sensitive to be let out. The actor claimed that he has the right to access the memory card, which is considered as crucial evidence in the case.

ALSO READ: Mohanlal under fire from WCC over handling of Malayalam actress abduction case

In defence of his client, Rohatgi told the court that the actor was not named in the original charge sheet and was framed by the alleged victim as an afterthought, due to enmity. He added that his client has the right to obtain the clip.

Earlier, the actor had moved a lower court in Kerala and the state's High Court seeking access to the memory card, but did not get a favourable outcome. The courts had agreed with the police contention that evidence cannot be handed over to the accused.

As per the police, the conspiracy to abduct and assault the actress in a moving car was hatched by Dileep. The actor was arrested on July 10, 2017 and was granted bail on October 3.

The actress, who has worked in Tamil and Telugu films, was abducted and allegedly molested inside her car by a group of men, who had forced their way into the vehicle on the night of February 17, 2017 and later escaped.Harpreet Singh Bajwa By

Express News Service

CHANDIGARH: After being ticked off by the Congress high command over his "Rahul is my Captain" remark, Punjab Local Bodies Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu has said that he will call on Chief Minister Amarinder Singh soon and sort out "the issue".

Amid the raging storm over Sidhu's remark, banners have already gone up across the state saying Amarinder is 'Punjab Da Kaptan' and more than a dozen ministers have demanded his resignation from the state cabinet.

Sidhu, who did not attend Monday's cabinet meeting as he is busy campaigning for party candidates in Rajasthan, said, "You do not wash your dirty linen in public. I will soon sort out the issue with the chief minister. He (Amarinder) is a father figure to me. I love him and respect him."

Sources said Sidhu's statement came after he was told by the party high command that Amarinder's writ is important and he should refrain from speaking out against him. The party top brass also advised all state cabinet minister not to escalate the issue any further.

At the cabinet meeting on Monday, state Housing and Urban Development minister Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa, who is considered an Amarinder loyalist, tried to raise the issue was asked to remain quiet.

It is reliably learnt that Punjab party affairs in-charge Asha Kumari intervened to prevent the issue from being raised during the cabinet meet. It was learnt that she had already spoken to the CM and his cabinet colleague in a bid to call a truce.

prevent the matter from escalating and she has reportedly spoken to both Amarinder and Sidhu and has also watched the video clip of the press conference in Hyderabad where Sidhu called Congress president Raul Gandhi his captain and Amarinder an Army Captain. His remarks had come a day after he returned from Pakistan after attending the ground-breaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor.

Also senior Congress leader and one of the most powerful functionaries in the party Ahmed Patel and Punjab Congress President Sunil Jakhar intervened to defuse the present crises in the party said party insiders.

Sources pointed out that after Sidhu's statement Amarinder's loyalists had taken the fight to the streets. It is time for the party to take credit for opening of the Kartarpur corridor and not for its leaders to fight with one another much to the embarrassment of the party leadership.

After Sidhu's 'captain' jibe, Member oament from Ludhiana Ravneet Singh Bittu and Punjab Food and Civil Supplies Minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu have put up hoardings across Ludhiana, 'Punjab da captain, sadda captain'.

Trying to play down the controversy, former MLA Navjot Kaur Sidhu wife of Navjot Singh Sidhu had said that Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh was like a father-figure to her husband. `` Sidhu's heart is clean. He has not committed any mistake that he should resign. He has already said Capt sahib (Amarinder) is a father-figure to him. If outside Punjab, he said Rahul is the captain, what is wrong on that?'' she said.Prasanta Mazumdar By

Express News Service

GUWAHATI: The popularity of BJP, which heads Assams three-party coalition government, will be up for a test during two-phase panchayat elections, the first phase of which will be held on December 5.



Riding on Narendra Modi wave, the BJP had grabbed 60 of the 126 seats in the 2016 Assembly elections. By winning the polls in Assam, the party had virtually opened the gateway to the Northeast as it went on to capture power in several states of the Northeast such as Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and Tripura.



However, in the past year or so, the BJPs image took a beating, particularly in Assam, following the Modi governments bid to get the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 passed in the Parliament. The Bill seeks to legitimize the stay of non-Muslim immigrants of Bangladesh besides Pakistan and Afghanistan.



Seventy organisations, opposition parties and even Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), which is an ally of BJP and constituent in the Sarbananda Sonowal government, stand opposed to the controversial Bill. They say the Assamese identity will be threatened if lakhs of Hindu Bangladeshis (read Bengali Hindus) are dumped in the state through the Bills passage.



The panchayat elections are being held amidst widespread protests in the state against the Bill. Several organisations have already warned that the BJP will be taught a lesson or two in the polls for going against the wishes of indigenous communities.



Despite being allies, BJP and AGP are fighting the polls separately. Blame it on the straining of ties between the two over the Citizenship Bill. The two of them have been very critical of each other during campaigning in the first phase which ended on Monday.



There are 2,200 Gaon Panchayats in Assam. According to the State Election Commission, altogether 78,571 candidates are contesting for 26,808 seats. Of them, 1,512 are contesting for 420 Zila Parishad member seats, 7,004 for 2,199 Anchalik Panchayat member seats, 7,667 for 2,199 Gaon Panchayat president seats and 62,388 for 21,990 Gaon Panchayat member seats.



Official sources said 734 candidates were declared elected unopposed. A total of 380 were from BJP, 193 from Congress, 28 from AGP, 10 from All India United Democratic Front, one from CPM, five from Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF) and 117 Independents.

Amit Agnihotri By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The Congress on Monday renewed its attack on PM Modi and former CJI Dipak Misra and reiterated its concerns over the independence of the judiciary as it demanded a probe into the issues arising out of former Supreme Court judge Kurien Joseph's remarks that his ex-boss was being remote controlled.

Before it got busy with the Assembly elections in five states, the Congress had been regularly raising the issue of independence of judiciary and even moved a motion for Misra's impeachment before Rajya Sabha chairman Venkaiah Naidu who rejected the Opposition's plea.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi had also slammed the Centre citing the public appearance of four senior SC judges, including Joseph, who had expressed concern over Misra's style of functioning.

"A retired judge of the SC has clearly said that voice was raised against interference from outside. The country demands answers from the PM and the head of the ruling party as to who was interfering and what was the manner in which it was done," Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi said.

"We demand an independent judicial probe into the matter. There could be a separate parliamentary action also," he said.

He, however, clarified that the apex court was able to deal with the issue on its own and that it was flagging the issue as a political party.

Noting that the party's apprehensions over judicial independence had been proved right, Singhvi asked the government "which were cases where these initiatives were taken by the government and how many times."

"We have been highlighting the downgrade of institutions like CIC and Lokpal. Now it turns out that even the SC was not left untouched," said Singhvi, adding "it shows how the government acts and thinks and establishes that there is a lack of commitment towards pillars of nation in the ruling party."

He alleged people did not matter in the ruling party's scheme of things.Ramananda Sengupta By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: India will host the G20 summit in 2022, to coincide with the 75th anniversary of its Independence.

Announcing this just before leaving Buenos Aires, Argentina, where the 2018 G20 summit ended Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said: It is Indias 75th Independence Day in 2022 and we had requested Italy if we can get 2022 instead of 2021. They accepted our request, and everyone else also accepted it. Im grateful and I invite leadership from across the world to come to India in 2022.

The G20, which comprises 19 countries and the EU, groups the countries into four blocs of four and one of three, and the nations in each group bid for the summit when their turn comes. Japan will host the 2019 summit, Saudi Arabia in 2020, and Italy in 2021 before India hosts it in 2022.

Modi had wanted to host the summit in 2018, but Argentina had refused to swap.

Besides, India lacks the convention and other infrastructure like enough hotels and services required for such a massive exercise, said an official.

The summit involves hosting heads of State and government from 19 nations simultaneously, which is a logistical and security nightmare. Apart from that, the host nation is usually also expected to hold the meetings of finance ministers and central bank governors of the member states over the year, he pointed out.

We do have some world-class convention centres being built at Pragati Maidan and another at Dwarka, but apart from the fact that their progress has been tardy, we need all the other infrastructure in place before we can host such a mammoth event, he said.

Will we have them in place by 2022? Well, only time can tell.Li Zhanshu, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, speaks with deputies to people's congresses at various levels and grass-roots cadres on their opinions about the law draft at Huyu Village of Ruili City of Dai-Jingpo Autonomous Prefecture of Dehong, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Nov. 30, 2018. Li made a research on how to better make a law on basic medical care and health promotion during his four-day tour to Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Shen Hong)

KUNMING, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- China's top legislator Li Zhanshu has underlined the need to expedite legislation on health care.

Li, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, made the remarks during a four-day research tour in southwestern province of Yunnan that ended Saturday.

"It is imperative to safeguard people's rights and interests and improve people's wellbeing with a well-conceived rule of law," Li said during the research on how to better make a law on basic medical care and health promotion. The draft of the law has been deliberated twice by the NPC and made public for comments.

Li spoke with 10 deputies to people's congresses at various levels on their opinions about the law draft. Their discussions focused on ensuring a balanced, rational and scientific allocation and distribution of medical resources.

"Medical resources of all levels and all types should be used and shared, serving as a legal guarantee for maintaining people's lifecycle health," Li said.

Li also visited community healthcare centers, pharmaceutical company, and rural clinics.Mukesh Ranjan By

Express News Service

RANCHI: The Opposition parties in Jharkhand have failed to reach on consensus for fielding a common candidate for the bypolls to be held for Kolebira Assembly seat on December 20.

Despite by Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) Chief Shibu Soren's call to support Jharkhand Party candidate Menon Ekka, Congress candidate Bixel Kongadi filed his nomination on the last day of nomination on Monday.

Kolebira seat had fallen vacant after former minister in Madhu Koda government and the sitting MLA of Kolebira - Anosh Ekka, was convicted and sentenced life imprisonment by a Simdega Court on July 3 in a case related to the murder of a para-teacher in 2014.

Though the JMM has assured that Kolebira will not have any impact on the grand alliance, but at the same time expressed dissatisfaction over last minute decision taken by the Congress party to filed its candidate despite making it clear by the Party Chief that they were supporting Menon Ekka from there.

"If the Opposition leaders have chosen JMM Executive President and leader of Opposition Hemant Soren, they must honour his decision. All the parties must have gone his decision to support Jharkhand Party candidate Menon Ekka, without raising any question," said JMM General Secretary and Spokesperson Vinod Panday.

There should not have any confusion as the Jharkhand Party has already cleared its intentions to join the grand alliance, he added. "Moreover, Kolebira being natural claim of JMM, if looked in terms of mass base, the decision was to be taken by us whether to filed our own candidate or support someone else," said Pandey.

And if the Party had supported Jharkhand Party, all the opposition parties must have supported her, he added. Congress, on the other hand, claimed that since none of the parties in the grand alliance gave their candidate, it was the duty of the Congress party to field its candidate from Kolebira.

"We have acted on the demand of the masses in Kolebira which is completely against the outrage of Enosh Ekka's Jharkhand Party. Moreover, it was JMM's personal decision to support Jharkhand Party, without taking any consent from any other party in the grand alliance," said Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee Spokesperson Lal Kishore Nath Shahdeo.

The Congress Party has been working on it strategically and senior party leaders have been camping in Kolebira regularly to win the seat, he added. Surprisingly, Shahdeo also claimed that it will not have any impact on the grand alliance, as Hemant Soren has given his consent to participate in a meeting organized by UPA taking place at New Delhi on December 10.

There might be some compulsion behind JMM extending its support to Jharkhand Party, he added. Meanwhile, Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (JVM) is in a fix, whether to support Congress candidate or JMM supported Jharkhand Party. Party leaders, however, avoided speaking on the issue. "We are still to take any decision on Kolebira as the Party Chief Babulal Marandi is out of station and we will wait till he comes back and give any direction on it," said a senior JVM leader requesting anonymity.

Probably we will play a neutral role in Kolebira bi-elections for the sake of grand alliance, he added. BJP has fielded 28-year-old Basant Soreng from Kolebira. EoMAnand ST Das By

Express News Service

PATNA: Jailed RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav's elder son and MLA Tej Pratap Yadav, who has filed for divorce from his wife of six months against his parents' wishes, no longer wants to live with them. He has asked the state government to allot him a separate bungalow.

Tej Pratap, 30, who returned to Patna six days ago after spending nearly a month at undisclosed locations outside Bihar, has refused to visit his parents' official residence at 10, Circular Road, where he had been living with his mother, former chief minister Rabri Devi and his wife Aishwarya Rai.

He has been spending time at a hotel and also at the houses of some of his close friends."A formal request has been received from Tej Pratap Yadav for allotment of a bungalow to him as an MLA. The request would be processed soon," said an official of Bihar's building construction department.

The first-time RJD legislator has reportedly asked for the 2, Strand Road bungalow. He is likely to get the building as it is currently lying vacant. Tej Pratap, who had served as Bihar's health minister for 20 months as part of the state's erstwhile grand alliance government led by CM Nitish Kumar, had vacated his 3, Deshratna Marg ministerial bungalow after the new NDA government sent him notices.

His younger brother and Opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav, who had served as deputy chief minister in the same government, is yet to vacate the bungalow despite pressures from the government. He has challenged a recent Patna High Court order to vacate the bungalow.

All efforts by Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi and their large family to persuade Tej Pratap to withdraw his divorce petition have failed. Tej Pratap had married Aishwarya Rai, daughter of RJD leader Chandrika Rai and granddaughter of former CM Daroga Rai, in a grand ceremony on May 12. He filed for divorce on November 2.

In the first hearing of the case at a family court in Patna on November 29, he said he is determined to divorce her. Sources said Lalu Prasad Yadav, whose health turned more delicate after Tej Pratap refused to change his mind on the divorce petition, has asked his aides to identify the people who have allegedly been financing Tej Pratap's hotel stays and visits to religious sites outside Bihar.By PTI

NEW DELHI: Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao and AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi were "one" and urged the people of Telangana to not be "fooled by them".

He also claimed the Telangana Rashtra Samithi was the BJP's "B team" and its chief K Chandrasekhar Rao "operates" as Prime Minister Modi's "Telangana Rubber Stamp".

"Owaisi's, AIMIM is the BJP's 'C' team, whose role is to split the anti BJP/KCR vote," Gandhi tweeted.

TRS is the BJP's "B" team & KCR operates as Mr Modi's, Telangana Rubber Stamp.



Owaisi's, AIMIM is the BJP's "C" team, whose role is to split the anti BJP/ KCR vote.



Great people of Telangana, Modi, KCR & Owaisi are one. They speak in twisted tongues. Do not be fooled by them! pic.twitter.com/yIt6vlC6Wh  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 3, 2018

"Great people of Telangana, Modi, KCR & Owaisi are one. They speak in twisted tongues. Do not be fooled by them!" he said.

Earlier, in another tweet, he said Telangana was "born of idealism and great dreams", but four years of "TRS/BJP incompetence, arrogance and corruption" has made the people cynical.By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Enforcement Directorate has attached a plot of land in Panchkula allotted to the Associated Journals Limited (AJL) by the Haryana government in 2005, the agency said on Monday.

It has done saw under the anti-money laundering law, the agency said.

The AJL is reportedly controlled by senior Congress leaders, including members of the Gandhi family.

The group runs the National Herald newspaper.

A provisional attachment order was issued on December 1, the day CBI filed a charge sheet against former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and others for allegedly using fraudulent means to allot land to AJL, the agency said in a statement.

"Since, the value of plot fraudulently alloted to AJL has represented proceeds of crime, the ED has attached plot under PMLA act," the statement said.

The plot has been attached under Section 5 of PMLA (Attachment of property involved in money-laundering) and further investigation is in the process, officials said.

The CBI charge sheet named Congress leader Motilal Vora besides Hooda in connection with the alleged irregularities in the re-allotment of an institutional plot in Panchkula, Haryana, to the AJL.By Express News Service

SRINAGAR: Pakistan-based terror groups are honey trapping Indian youths and encouraging them to join militancy. Officials said that the youths are being used as human carriers to ferry arms and to act as guides for terrorists.

Syed Shazia, a woman in her 30s, was arrested from Bandipore a fortnight ago, under the Ranbir Penal Code (the equivalent of IPC) and Arms Act, by officials from the central security agencies. Investigators found that she had various accounts on social networking sites, such as Facebook and Instagram, and was being followed by many youths in the Valley.

Not only youths, Shazia was also in touch with a few officials in the police department. Officials said that it is a usual double-cross tactic and that she used to inform about the movement of troops to her handlers in Pakistan.

For months officials had been keeping an eye on the IP address used by Shazia. During interrogation, she said that there were more women like her who were luring youths to pick up arms.

Shazia has been on the radar of investigating agencies since September last year when police killed Abu Ismail, a top Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist operating in Kashmir, and Chotta Qassim in an encounter.

The police had recovered some documents and materials from the encounter site which indicated that an unidentified woman from North Kashmir was involved in supplying arms and ammunition to the two.

The woman was identified as Shazia in April this year. Officials monitoring her social media accounts found that she was luring youths on orders from across the border.

Shazia later started working as an overground worker from Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and was delivering weapons in the Valley.

Before her arrest, a special police officer from Handwara was picked up by police for informing Shazia that her phone was being monitored.

The police officer, identified as Irfan, had been passing information to Shaiza, they said. The Jammu and Kashmir Police had also arrested a 28-year-old Aysia Jan on November 17 after receiving a tip-off about the movent of arms and ammunition. They recovered 20 grenades and some ammunition from her.

Missing Kashmir youth, who embraced militancy gives up gun, returns home

A Kashmiri youth, who went missing in October from a university in Uttar Pradesh and was believed to have joined militant group Islamic State J&K, returned home on Sunday. Ehtisham Bilal Sofi, 17, who had gone missing from Sharda University in Greater Noida on October 28 and reportedly joined the terror group after pledging his allegiance to IS chief Abu Bakar Al Baghdadi, returned home at Khanyar in downtown Srinagar on Sunday. On his return, a police contingent reached the spot and whisked him away. There were some effort from his family and our side to make him come back and these bore, DIG, central Kashmir, B K Virdi said.

He said the police officials are questioning him. Sources said police officials are quizzing Ehtisham on what prompted him to join militancy and how he got in touch with militants inspired by the IS in the state. He had released a video in which he was shown holding an AK-47 rifle. It also carried an audio message where he is heard pledging his allegiance to Baghdadi. The boys father said he had returned home bleeding and was taken away by police. Before going missing from university and joining militancy, Ehtisham was assaulted by a group of students in the varsity campus at Greater Noida during a clash between students of India and Afghanistan.Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: Two persons, including a police inspector and a 21-year-old villager, were killed in Bulandshahr district of western Uttar Pradesh on Monday, when violence broke out over an alleged incident of cow slaughter.

Family of Police inspector Subodh Kumar in mourning. Kumar lost his life yesterday after being attacked by people protesting against alleged cattle slaughter in the area #BulandshaharViolence pic.twitter.com/rlm2TNOLe1  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 4, 2018

Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh died after being pelted with stones, and Sumit, a local, succumbed to a gunshot wound, said ADG (law and Order) Anand Kumar.

Residents of three villages went on a rampage while protesting against illegal slaughterhouses and slaughtering of cows in the district, police sources said. The state government has set up probes by a Special Investigative Team and a magisterial probe, besides an inquiry by the Additional Director General, Intelligence, to ascertain the reasons for the violence and to identify those who opened fire during the chaos.

According to ADG Meerut range Prashant Kumar, residents of Mahaw village spotted the carcass of a cow in the fields at 10:30 am on Monday. They reported it to the local police and demanded action against the culprits.

Despite the assurance by the police, the villagers of three adjoining villages loaded the carcass on a trolley to take it to the Chingarwathi police outpost, and blocked main road. The protest took a violent turn when they pelted stones at policemen and the forces retaliated with lathi charge.

Police outpost set ablaze, vehicles torched

Agitated protestors set the Chingarwathi police outpost on fire along with the vehicles, including a police van parked near it. They indulged in vandalism and firing as well.Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: In a major crackdown on power bill defaulters, the state power authorities disconnected power supply to VVIP airstrip in Saifai village, the pocket borough of Samajwadi Party (SP) leaders 

Akhilesh and Mulayam Singh Yadav, in Etawah district.

The action was taken on Sunday to ensure payment of pending electricity dues on Safai airstrip to the tune of over Rs 1 crore, said a senior official of UP power department. As per the sources in UP Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL), the power bill of Safais airstrip, which availed load of 230 kilowatt, had a

pending power bill for the last four and a half years.

Notably, one among the VVIP airstrips in the country came into being during the regime of SP patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav.

Surrounded by a boundary wall, Saifai airstrip has just a VIP lounge. As per international standards, the

airstrip falls in the category of private aerodrome. It is basically used only for landing VVIP aircrafts and chartered planes during the visits of Akhilesh Yadav, his family members an those bigwigs who are close Yadav family.

The power disconnection was done following the directives of UPPCL chairman, said a senior officer of power department. Managing director, power distribution company -- Dakshiananchal Vidyut Vitaran Nigam limited (DVVNL) -- SK Verma claimed that the supply was snapped as the bill amount was huge. "Despite various reminders to the authorities concerned, the bill was not cleared by them, he added.

The disconnection was carried out twice earlier also but the bills were not cleared.

"Now the connection will be restored only after clearance of the pending dues," said the MD. The crackdown is part of the drive under which UPPCL chairman had allegedly directed all the senior officials of the corporation and MDs of all the four DISCOMS -- to crack down on top 20 defaulters in their respective jurisdictions.

Till two years back, the airstrip, which has the night landing facility, was used for landing aircrafts and chartered planes carrying VVIPs and Bollywood stars for annual upscale extravaganza  Safai

mahotsav -- organised by SP bosses.By Express News Service

Days after demitting his office, former Supreme Court judge Kurian Joseph claimed that former Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra was remote-controlled by an external source which impacted the administration of justice.

Justice Joseph was among the four senior judges of the apex court who convened an unprecedented January 12 press conference this year to flag their concerns about preferential allocation of sensitive cases to judges low down on the top courts hierarchy.

The then CJI was working under some influence of some external source. He was remote-controlled by an external source that was impacting the administration of justice, Justice Joseph said adding that the issues which were highlighted in the press conference have started showing some positive changes. Justice Joseph added that former CJI wasnt taking decisions independently.

CJI Ranjan Gogoi during Justice Kurian Josephs farewell at the Supreme Court on Thursday. (Photo | Parveen Negi/ EPS)

The allocation of petitions seeking a re-investigation into the death of judge Loya  as is commonly perceived  was not the only reason for the press conference, he said.

READ: When Justice Kurian Joseph reunites families with firm words and a smile

The Supreme Court on April 19 rejected the PILs seeking probe into the death of special CBI judge B H Loya, ruling he had died of natural causes. Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, died of cardiac arrest in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend a wedding.

Assembly polls diverted party

Before it got busy with the Assembly elections in five states, the Congress had been regularly raising the issue of independence of judiciary and even moved a motion for Misras impeachment before Rajya Sabha Chairman who rejected the plea.By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The 12th India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting for Economic and Technical Cooperation will be co-chaired by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj along with her counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi during her official visit to the Gulf country from December 3-4.

With nearly USD 50 billion bilateral trade, the two countries are one of the largest trade partners for each other.

The Emirates is the sixth-largest source of Indias oil imports and hosts a 3.3 million-strong Indian community.

Along with the UAE Foreign Minister, Swaraj would inaugurate a Gandhi-Zayed Digital Museum in Abu Dhabi to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the birth centenary of Shaikh Zayed, founder of the modern UAE.Fayaz Wani By

Express News Service

SRINAGAR: Police on Monday claimed to have busted two modules of Jaish-e-Mohammad in south Kashmir by arresting 10 members of the militant group.

They also said they foiled a plan by militants in north Kashmir to snatch weapons and rescued five young missing boys from Srinagar. A police official said in view of a surge in militant attacks in Tral in south Kashmir's Pulwama district, a special team was constituted to investigate these attacks.

ALSO READ | Pakistan terror groups use women to 'honey trap' Jammu & Kashmir youths: Officials

"On the basis of evidence gathered, Younis Nabi Naik, Fayaz Ahmad Wani, Riyaz Ahmad Ganaie and Bilal Ahmad Rather, all locals, were taken into custody for questioning," he said.

On being questioned, they admitted to their complicity in militant attacks in Tral area and said they were associates of Jaish militants, the officer said. The official said another Jaish module was busted in Khrew area of Pampore in Pulwama district and six associates of the outfit were arrested.

The arrested JeM associates were identified as Javaid Ahmad Parray, Yasir Bashir Wani, Tahir Yousuf Lone, Rafiq Ahmad Bhat, Javaid Ahmad Khanday and Imran Nazir, all locals.

"Huge quantity of incriminating material was recovered from the module, including gelatin sticks, detonators and materials for making IEDs and grenades," the official said.

He said police in north Kashmir foiled the militants' plan to snatch weapons by arresting eight militant accomplices from Baramulla, Tangmarg in north Kashmir and Srinagar in central Kashmir.

"Further questioning of those arrested was on," the official said, adding that the police also rescued five missing boys from Srinagar.

"Parents of some boys in Srinagar had told police that they received phone calls from their children, who had left for their school in the morning, informing that they are going to join militant ranks," the official said. He said to ensure quick and timely action, a special police team was constituted.

"The strenuous efforts of the team, with the help of the families of these missing boys, resulted in five of them being rescued. They were brought back safely," he said.

The official said though these boys had threatened to embrace militancy, the police haven't found any evidence to suggest their active association with any militant group.

"All five boys were counselled before being handed over to their parents," the officer said.Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) meets with his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Dec. 1, 2018. President Xi attended a working dinner with President Trump in Buenos Aires on Saturday. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

BUENOS AIRES, Dec. 1 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump held a "very successful" meeting here Saturday and agreed to continue to maintain contact.

At the working dinner after the conclusion of the 13th Group of 20 summit, Xi and Trump had an in-depth exchange of views on China-U.S. relations and international affairs of mutual concern in a friendly and candid atmosphere, reaching important consensus and agreeing not to impose new additional tariffs.

The two sides agreed to expand cooperation based on reciprocity and mutual benefit and manage differences based on mutual respect so as to jointly advance China-U.S. relations with coordination, cooperation and stability as the defining features.

Xi pointed out that China and the United States shoulder important responsibilities in promoting world peace and prosperity.

Sound China-U.S. relations, Xi said, are in line with the fundamental interests of the two peoples and the general expectation of the international community.

Cooperation is the best option for the two countries, Xi said.

Xi called on both China and the United States to handle the development of bilateral relations from an overall perspective and push for long-term, healthy and stable development, delivering more and better benefits to the two nations and people around the world.

Trump said he agrees with Xi on his evaluation of bilateral relations.

U.S.-China relations are very special and important, Trump said, adding that it is in the interest of the two countries as well as the world that the United States and China, both countries of significant influence, maintain a good cooperative relationship.

The U.S. side, he added, is ready to increase cooperation with China through consultations and actively seek mutually beneficial solutions to their problems.

The two heads of state are willing to maintain exchanges in various forms to jointly chart the course of the development of China-U.S. relations.

They also pledged to hold further exchanges of visits at an appropriate time.

The two sides agreed to strengthen dialogue and cooperation in various areas and increase communication in education as well as cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

Trump said the U.S. side welcomes Chinese students to study in his country.

The two sides also agreed to take proactive steps to strengthen cooperation on law enforcement and combating illicit drugs, including the synthetic drug fentanyl. The measures adopted in this respect by China so far have been applauded by the international community including the United States. China has decided to list all the fentanyl-like substances as controlled substances and start working to adjust related regulations.

Xi stressed that the exchanges in trade and economy between China and the United States, the world's two largest economies, have been very and interdependent.

It is very normal that the two countries disagree on economy and trade, Xi said, adding that the key is that the two countries manage their differences properly and work out a solution acceptable to both in the spirit of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit.

The two heads of state had proactive and fruitful discussions on trade and economy. They reached consensus not to impose new additional tariffs and agreed to instruct the economic teams of the two sides to step up negotiations toward the removal of all additional tariffs and reach a concrete agreement that would result in win-win results.

The Chinese side said it will work to open its market, expand imports and resolve economy- and trade-related issues in China-U.S. relations in the process of a new round of reform and opening-up and in line with the needs of its domestic market and people.

It added that a concrete agreement featuring mutually beneficial and win-win results is the foundation and premise of any positive moves from the Chinese side directed toward the U.S. side.

The Chinese side also called on the two sides to make joint efforts to bring bilateral economic and trade relations back on the right track and realize cooperation for win-win results.

Xi reiterated China's stance on the Taiwan issue and the U.S. side pledged to continue to adhere to the one-China policy.

Xi and Trump also compared notes on the Korean Peninsula situation and other major international and regional affairs.

The Chinese side said China supports a second summit between the United States and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), and hopes the two sides could meet each other half way, address each other's legitimate concerns and advance the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula in parallel with building a mechanism for peace on the peninsula.

The U.S. side said that in this respect, it appreciates China's positive role and hopes to maintain communication and coordination with China.Manish Anand By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Ahead of the December 9 Ramlila ground rally to press for legislative route for the construction of Ram temple at Ayodhya, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) said that the outfit was enlisting support of all members of the Parliament cutting across party lines, and would also seek an appointment with Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

"A number of Congress MPs whose names couldn't be divulged currently, have expressed support for the construction of the temple and the legislative bill, though stating that they will be bound by the party whip. We will also like to meet the Congress president for which time would be sought soon," said VJP joint secretary Surendra Jain, while speaking to reporters.

The VHP leader expressed hope that the government would bring a bill in the winter session of Parliament commencing from December 11. "Those who are still sceptical about the bill would soon change their opinions, as five km radius of the Ramlila ground on December 9 would be full of Ram bhakts," said Jain.

He added that RSS joint general secretary Suresh (Bhaiyyaji) Joshi would be the main speaker at the Ramlila ground rally for which month-long preparations have been going on. "Three lakh food packets are being arranged for the rally," said Jain and added that the outfit has so far met all the state Governors, besides scores of members of Parliament cutting across party lines in the drive to enlist support for the legislative solution to the issue.

Jain reiterated that the VHP would abide by the decision of the 'Dharam Sansad of saints' to be held on January 31 at Prayag in the event the legislative bill is not passed by the Parliament to pave the way for the construction of a grand Ram temple at Ayodhya. He refuted the perception that the saffron outfits have spurred the Ram temple issue on the poll eve saying that the campaign has been launched as former Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dipak Mishra couldn't take up the hearings on the pending case.Harpreet Bajwa By

Express News Service

CHANDIGARH: Stubble burning has reduced by as much as 50 per cent this year in 14 of 22 districts in Punjab, mainly in Majha and Doaba and the issue is likely to solve by 90 per cent next year.

This was stated by KS Pannu, Secretary Agriculture and Soil Conservation Punjab at a conference on 'Stubble Burning: Viable and Sustainable Solutions' as part of CII Agro Tech India 2018.

"In Punjab, we have used Super Straw Management (SMS). The system needs to be attached to a combine harvester. The farmers were offered 50 per cent subsidy for using this system and the SMS in now in use in 5,000 of 7,500 combine harvesters in the state," informed Pannu.

He added that the government also worked hard to create awareness of the issue among farmers, using social media as well as through one-on-one interactions. Pannu shared that a German organisation has evinced interest to make Bio-CNG from straw in Punjab.

He mentioned that from November 15 this year, the state had already started a survey of farmers to know about the reason for not adopting the machines that could reduce the problem of stubble burning. Based on the response, the State Government will devise our strategy for the next year.

Pannu clarified that the reduction in paddy yield and the higher moisture content in paddy had no relation with the delayed sowing. Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has published a paper which concludes that rainfall has led to such problems, he explained.

"With 4 million tonnes of paddy residue in the soil, wheat productivity is bound to increase next year. Pesticide use should also drop by around 30 per cent," remarked Pannu, adding that Punjab Government along with the farmers were working hard to ensure that the problem vanishes from the state at the earliest.

He concluded, "Punjab farmers believe in the adage of 'Till more to grow more'. Here, we are telling them to embrace. This would be a major cultural and psychological change for the farmers. We are handholding them in this entire process."

Farmers present from districts of Sangrur, Mohali, Ludhiana, Patiala said that they should not be pressurized to adopt only one method for handling the crop residue. "First of all various options should be made available to us and then we should be given the authority to decide which method to go for. Also, human efforts should be recognized and not only machine use should be promoted," said Tejinder Singh, a farmer from Mohali.

Other farmers also raised their concerns about the machinery provided of not being at par with international standards, costs going up on using additional tools, lack of information on decomposing the stubble, and information on schemes not reaching them. Vikram Ahuja, Owner, Zamindara Farm Solutions Private Limited brought forth the point of rising prices of machinery as and when the subsidy is announced.

"The farmers should be made aware of the solutions available for straw management and given some time to handle the issue over the next three to four years," he said. While Manmohan Kalia, Joint Director, Agri-Engineering, Punjab Agriculture Department said, " The farmers should use machines like happy seeder, combine with super SMS, ploughers, bailers etc to manage straw and mix it in the fields.''Harpreet Bajwa By

Express News Service

CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Cabinet on Monday approved the setting up of a new international civil terminal at Indian Air Force (IAF) Station, Halwara near Ludhiana.

The state already has two intentional airports at Mohali and Amritsar. The Cabinet, at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, gave go-ahead for signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for the same.'

The Civil Terminal would be developed jointly by the AAI and the Punjab Government through a Joint Venture Company (JVC) to be constituted for the purpose. While AAI would have majority stake of 51 per cent, the Punjab Government, through the Greater Ludhiana Development Authority (GLADA), will have 49 per cent stake in the project. The state Government would provide 135. 54 acres of land free of cost to the JVC by way of its equity in the project.

The capital expenditure on development of the new airport would be borne by AAI, whereas the expenditure on the operation, maintenance and repairs would be taken care of by the JVC. The first phase of the project, which will include the development of a new international civil enclave over an area of 135.

54 acres for full-fledged operations up to Code-4C type aircraft, is likely to be completed within three years. The project, aimed at giving a fillip to the economic development of Punjab's business and industrial hub Ludhiana, also fulfills a long-pending demand of the Ludhiana-based industry, which the Chief Minister has now acceded, said an official.

Notably, Ludhiana is Punjab's largest industrial and business city with a population of nearly two million, which is presently serviced by a small airport at Sahnewal under the operational control of AAI, which runs RCS-UDAN flights to Delhi.

Ludhiana also has the advantage of being at the geographical centre of Punjab. With the length of the runway at the present airport being limited, it only allows for operation of small aircraft which severely limits air connectivity.

Moreover, as the city has grown significantly around the airport, acquisition of additional land and expansion of the existing airport at Sahnewal is not feasible. Further, Ludhiana has substantial export potential, which could be exploited with the growth of cargo traffic.

An official said that the decision fulfils an old demand of the state, which was first taken up by Capt Amarinder Singh with the central government during his previous tenure as chief minister. The matter, however, remained in abeyance pending clearances from the Centre.Vinod Mathew By

The last time Kerala offered a slice of itself by opening a window to the world was on June 10, 1999 when the Cochin International Airport opened shop. Now, when the Kannur International Airport Ltd throws open another window in the sky for those venturing to reach the northern parts of the state, it comes after an almost-two-decade gap. Given the huge expatriate population of Keralites in West Asia as also the US and many European countries, there is no doubt Kannur too would function more as a window to the world than to the rest of the country.

Try this for size: during the last fiscal, Kerala, through its three airports, accounted for approximately 17.5 million air passengers, and, of this, 10.35 million were international travellers. In other words, 60% of those travelling into and out of Kerala by air belong to the international category. Against this, the busiest airport in the country, Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi accounted for about 26% (65.7 million passengers, 17.4 million international) while the second busiest destination Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai fetched up at 28% (48.4 million passengers, 13.6 million international).

If some stray international traveller to Kochi from that first flight in 1999 were to return after 19 years and land in Kannur next month, he will find the alchemy of the state has completely changed.

The much-wonted greenery stands considerably diluted, the once celebrated villages with their landmark tea shops have disappeared, tolerance, not only in religious matters, but also at the societal level, is at an all-time low. Sadly, it would be no different if he were to fly into the Kozhikode, Kochi or Thiruvananthapuram.And the states economy is not exactly rocking. Keralas flagship tourism sector, for long battered by a series of events, lies in tatters. While overseas remittances continue to remain the leading income source, major infrastructure projects continue to drag their feet compared to the pace at which that is happening elsewhere.

Yes, operation Rebuild Kerala can bring in the much hankered after impetus as injecting Rs 31,000 crore into the economy would have a multiplier effect. But the billion dollar question is where is the money going to come from? The oft heard refrain, Money is the least of our problems is no longer finding too many buyers as suddenly money is in short supply with almost all sure-fire sources suddenly running dry.

But how do you explain away what can only be described as inertia on executing many critical projects? In most cases fund shortage was not the overriding reason for the traction. Do the math and what emerges is a not-so-pretty picture of key infrastructure projects adding up to around Rs 23,300 crore caught at various stages of flux.

And the Seaport-Airport road is in a state of neglect especially near the main installation points of the three PSU oil companies  BPCL, IOCL and HPCL  quite close to the Ernakulam district headquarters and the highly-populated InfoPark and Smart City. The busy zone from where over 1,000 oil tankers set off every day ferrying over 20,000 kilo litres of petrol and diesel to the nooks and crannies of the state makes it the most unsafe road in Kerala. Each day the state government keeps turning a blind eye to this danger, it ticks like a bomb with a short fuse.

Surely, the low priority accorded by the state government on these multiple fronts would keep sending out smoke signals of despair to the wannabe investors in Destination Kerala. The impetus for the making of Nava Keralam has to come from within and asking outside agencies to pump in money with so many dead horses in our stable well past the flogging stage simply cannot be the right calling card we keep flaunting to the outside world. And no new airport, international or domestic, will help change this stark ground reality. If anything, Kerala runs the risk of its multiple claims remaining a pie in the sky.

Vinod Mathew

Resident Editor, Kerala

vinodmathew@newindianexpress.comDr Ravi Nayar By

Medicine is an applied science and benefits from advances in basic and other applied sciences. In todays world, technology itself is an applied science benefitting from basic scientific advances, defining our world and determining our world view of the present and future.

The need for a healthy relationship between technology and medicine is paramount, and so we need to look at the current status of this relationship in India. This relationship is determined by the interaction between tech companies and the medical profession.

For instance the oft-quoted WHO statistic regarding the relative lack of medical professionals to cover Indias large population is frequently used to justify the entry of technology to help close this gap. The logic that e-health and phone advice can address this lacuna appears to be persuasive. But on deeper reflection, we can see it is flawed.

The problem is this statistic overlooks the fact that the number of medical professionals for the able-to-pay populace (as against the total population) is far too many as it is, far more than in developed nations. So the majority of Indians, who cannot pay, are unable to access the level of medical care available to the favoured few. Tech companies, being corporate bodies and profit-seeking, are driven to focus on the patients who can pay, the same favoured few served by medical professionals. The logic they want to serve the unattended many is hence contrived.

The unattended majority serve as a vote bank for the politicians, and their dissatisfaction impacts on this group. The dissatisfaction is made more acute, as the media and internet make them aware of the availability of better options. Instead of working to elevate the earning capacity or improving the health standards of the people or improving the quality of public hospitals, politicians find it easier to blame the medical community for the lack of facilities. Witness the recent diatribes claiming medical conferences are acts of collective sin in the sun and sands of foreign climes. (This would be a better description of the fact-finding committees of Legislative Assemblies in India that visit foreign shores. But I digress.)

So politicians and tech companies have a common interest, a common enemy. Having named and shamed the professionals, the politicians have to continue doing so, especially when they recognise this makes good sense at the hustings. Many people are only too willing to follow the logic: Somebody has to be blamed for this mess (it cant be us). Here is somebody  so he is to blame.

For the tech companies, it is an imperative to somehow break the monopoly which medical professionals have on their paying patients. Their strategy is predictable. Since humans are flawed, anecdotal errors of medical judgement abound. This can be used as justification for introducing devices using machine learning, artificial intelligence and other awe-inspiring advances. Never mind there is no evidence of benefit from these technologies, even if one ignores the humongous costs involved in acquiring them.

The attempts to play up human error are unfair.

For instance anybody in the field of education will tell you that the human brain does not work like a binary computer, but reaches conclusions by a complicated process of inference and logic. Yet it usually outperforms computers. One may make many individual errors of calculation but get the overall answer correct, more often than the computer that would never make an individual error but can get the overall picture really wrong.

But it is not my intention to cast a slur upon the advances of technology to which we owe so much these days (though not all to the good).

I only wish to point to the misuse of tech to enable corporate greed to disrupt a profession.

The medical profession used to be a part of the solution to the problem of ill health, but now, almost overnight, it is being derided as a part of the problem. This is solely because tech companies smell profits and big profits at that, the legal system smells profit from any mishap real or imagined, and the politicians smell votes. If I may add, the medical professionals also are guilty of the cardinal sin of not paying a regular contribution to political campaign chests.

In fact Indias medical community has made a good name for itself globally, both in the developing and the developed worldwitness the acceptance of articles of scientific studies from India in international forums, the increasing number of live surgical broadcasts beamed from India, the growing number of exchange visitors, and the vast numbers of patients from abroad seeking high quality, value-for-money treatment here.

The denigration of the profession creates many real problems, such as that of needless defensive medicine, lack of risk-taking on behalf of the patient, impediments to healthy doctor-patient relationship, and an increasing number of good intelligent students opting to choose less risky, more highly paying and less arduous professions. Even within the profession, the number of people contributing actively to patient care is outnumbered by those who manage and control this group. This cannot be good for any society and it is my duty as an academic and medical professional with over 30 years of experience to sound a warning.

The aim of technology should be to help the underserved receive the same quality of care available to the fortunate few, and to improve the ability of professionals to do their assigned tasks. Anything else is a travesty.

Dr Ravi Nayar

Consultant otolaryngologist and Dean, Centre for Academic Research, HCG Hospitals, Bengaluru

Email: ravi-nayar-ent@hotmail.comG Ramesh Babu By

Express News Service

SRIKAKULAM: More than 300 people are stuffed in a small room throughout the night, where sitting itself is nearly impossible leave alone sleeping. Added to it, there is no provision for adequate food and proper clothing for Indian prisoners. This was the plight of Indian fishermen who strayed into the territorial waters of Pakistan and got caught.

If this spine-chilling story, which was recalled by Chodipilli Musalayya, a fisherman from the remote Kunduvanipeta village of Srikakulam district, is to be believed, the fear among the families of the 22 fishermen arrested by Pakistan for inadvertently straying into its territorial waters, about their safety is not misplaced. Musalayya had spent one year in Karachi prison.

About 320 prisoners were stuffed in a small room in the prison during night. We did not have the space even to sit in the room, said Musalayya, recounting the ordeal he suffered for one year after he was captured by Pak Coast Guards, while fishing near Okha in Gujarat in November 2000. I was not given any clothes in the prison. I had to wear one pair of clothes for the whole year. The prison authorities did not even give us toothbrush for the entire period. It was a real hell in Karachi prison where I suffered for one year, he said.

Musalayya was among the 25 Indian fishermen who spent one year in Karachi prison. With no alternative livelihood, the fishermen resumed fishing after they were released from Pak jail.

Musalayya migrated to Okha in Gujarat in August 2000 in search of livelihood, just one year after his marriage. At that time, he was 21-year-old. Those were the days when the fishermen were not equipped with GPS technology to avoid straying into the territorial waters of neighbouring country while fishing.

In November 2000, we (about 31 fishermen) went into the deep sea in six boats for fishing. Around 3 am, we woke up in the anchored boats after hearing loud noise and found ourselves surrounded by Pakistan Coast Guards.

They took 25 fishermen into their custody and the drivers of the boats were asked to follow them. However, the boat drivers managed to escape from the Pakistan Coast Guards, he said.During the 24-hour journey to the Pakistani coast, they tied us and kept on slapping us. We were not given food and water. After reaching the coast, they put us in local jail for one day. After completing the necessary legal procedures, we were shifted to Karachi prison, he said.

The food for the prisoners included a chapathi with curry and tea as breakfast, two chapathis each as lunch and dinner. Due to inadequate food, majority of the fishermen became sick in the prison. It was only after the release of some Pakistani prisoners from the jail, we used their clothes. Spending night in a packed room with little space even to move was an every day ordeal we suffered in Karachi prison for one year. However, we were allowed to move freely in the open space in the prison in daytime, he said.

Musalayya and other fishermen were released from Karachi prison in February 2002. He continued to go to Gujarat for livelihood during lean fishing season in the Bay of Bengal. Five fishermen from Kunduvanipeta with a population 1,500, had served sentence in Pakistani prisons for straying into the territorial waters.By Express News Service

SRIKAKULAM: Family members of fishermen who were captured by the Pakistan Coast Guard in Arabian Sea met Leader of the Opposition YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Sunday. About 17 people from the fishing villages, including women, met the Opposition leader near Tokavalasa cross in Rajam segment and urged him to pressure the centre into taking measures for early release of their breadwinners.

While taking an 8.2 km walkathon, Jagan assured them that he would make all possible efforts to bring them back to the country. Moogi Gurumurthy, the Sea Coast Fishermen Union district general secretary, MPTC Sairamulu and 15 others met him and poured out their woes. Jagans Praja Sankalpa Yatra began at Ungaradametta of Rajam assembly segment and covered Kummara Agraharam, Lingalavalasa cross, Reddypeta cross, Tokavalasa cross, Chinna Sirlam, Lachannavalasa cross, Lacharayapuram and Burada villages. People of Ambakandi in Regidi mandal met Jagan and said that several villagers had been suffering from kidney diseases for the past few years and asked him to bring the issue to the governments notice.

Similarly, several riverside villagers complained about illegal sand mining and sought his help in stopping it. Jagan spent a few minutes with the brick kiln workers at Lacharayapuram village during his walkathon. Farmers of Buditipeta met Jagan and said that irrigation water was not reaching their fields. Several other people met Jagan and shared their grievances with him.

Ambakandis Kidney Problem

People of Ambakandi in Regidi mandal met Jagan and said that several villagers had been suffering from kidney diseases for the past few years and asked him to bring the issue to the notice of the government and push for a solutionBy Express News Service

MANDYA: Former MP from Mandya and actor Ramya (also known as Divya Spandana), who recently faced the wrath of fans of actor M H Ambareesh for not attending his funeral, has started to vacate her house at Vidya Nagar in Mandya. Speculations are rife in this regard with household articles from the actor's house shifted in two trucks on Sunday night.

Ramya, who is also heading the AICC social media wing, had stayed away from the funeral of Ambareesh only to earn the ire of the latter's fans who had trolled her on social media. While Ramya did post a heartfelt tweet on Saturday, but, for the people of Mandya  from where she had been elected as a Member of Parliament before  her absence spoke louder than her tweet could.

She later posted a photo on Instagram of her bandaged foot, stating that she had a tumour of the bone. Thats me for the next few weeks, What a bummer! but at least my foot is now tumour and cancer free (awaiting biopsy). If any of you feel pain in your body go see a doctor, dont ignore it like I did. Giant cell tumour of the tendon sheath is one in in million and mostly affects women, its benign and can turn malignant. Early detection is key. And my biggest lessonto always listen to my body, Ramya posted on Instagram.

Ramya who had rented a house at Vidya Nagar in the sugar town a year ago, had been aspiring to contest the recently concluded by-elections to Lok Sabha. However, the Congress paved the way for its coalition partner in the State Government JDS to win the seat.

The JDS had fielded L R Shivarame Gowda who won. Ramya had won the same seat on Congress ticket during the by-election held in August 2013.

There was a long-standing cold war between the two who both belonged to the Congress, were elected from Mandya constituency (except from Ambareesh's brief stint at Ramanagara) and hailed from the dominant Vokkaliga community. Ambareesh was Ramya's political mentor before they grew apart due to infighting between their camps.

(With online desk inputs)By Express News Service

BENGALURU: An Ola cab driver who went to pick up a passenger was in for a rude shock when he was taken captive by his passengers. Whats worse is that the captors forced him to make a video call to his wife, threatened her to strip and planned to use the screen grabs to extort a ransom from him. He, however, managed to escape and finally lodged a complaint with Adugodi police in the city after the Channapatna police allegedly turned him away.

The cabbies ordeal began on Friday night when he received a booking from Bommasandra, asking him to come to a particular location mentioned in the booking order for pickup. There were four men. When the driver asked them what their destination would be, they started assaulting him without provocation. They allegedly attacked him with a screwdriver before abducting him. They forced him to sit in the rear seat with two men on either side while one of them took the steering wheel to drive towards Ramanagara, while another man sat in the co-driver seat. Seeing that I had only Rs 9,009 in my online wallet, the gang forced me to call my nephew to ask him to transfer more money to my account, the cabbie said.

My nephew transferred Rs 22,000. Then they withdrew the money from an ATM and continued driving towards Mysuru on the highway. They booked a room in a lodge at Channapatna and locked me up for around five hours, he said in his complaint. Later, the 38-year-old cabbie was asked to make a video call to his wife. When he did so, they snatched the mobile from him and told her to completely strip while threatening to kill her husband. Fearing for her husbands life, the hapless woman obliged, only to learn they were taking a video of her. They threatened the cab driver that they would upload his wifes pictures on social media platforms to socially humiliate him if he failed to pay up more ransom.

However, the driver, whose name has been withheld, managed to escape from the lodge on Saturday afternoon through the toilet window. Upon realising that he had escaped, his captors immediately checked out of the lodge fearing a police raid. But the cabbies troubles didnt end there. Speaking to TNIE, the cabbie said, When I approached Channapatna police, they declined to file an FIR but sent a policeman with me to reach the city. The staff at the station insisted that since the incident took place in Bengaluru City police limits, I should file a complaint with Adugodi police. Then I filed a case with Adugodi police narrating my ordeal. When I mentioned that the kidnappers made a video call to my wife and took obscene photos of her, the police told me not to mention that in the complaint as it is a question of my familys reputation. Thus, I did not mention it on their advice.

However, Ramanagara district Superintendent of Police Ramesh Kumar Banoth said, I dont think Channapatna police did not act in the case. They sent a policeman along with the cab driver to the city because they were concerned about his safety. Since it is a transferable case, they escorted him to the Bengaluru police so that immediate action could be taken.

A senior police officer from Madiwala sub-division said the police must include IPC Sec 354C (any man who watches or captures an image of a woman engaging in a private act in circumstances) in the FIR as the gang made a video call to the wife of the cab driver and captured screenshots. If the accused misused the photo of the woman or circulated, they should be booked under Sec 66 of the IT Act. These sections can be added in the FIR with the permission of the court, he said.

Additional Commissioner of Police (East) Seemanth Kumar Singh said, I am not aware that the drivers wife was forced to strip by the gang. I will verify if the relevant section is not mentioned in the FIR. If any dereliction is found, I will take action against the officer concerned.

Based on the complaint, police have registered a case of kidnapping, robbery and blackmail. The cabbie has told the police that the names of two of the culprits were Robin and Arun Bethni. Police have formed a special team to trace the gang. They have collected the cab booking details as well as the description of the four kidnappers.

Ola says customer blacklisted

A spokesperson for Ola told TNIE, This is extremely unfortunate and we deeply regret the horrific experience the driver-partner and his family have undergone. We strongly condemn such acts of assault. The company blacklisted the customers Ola account immediately soon after the incident came to light. Meanwhile, we are in touch with the driver-partner to extend support to him and have been assisting the investigating authorities with all necessary information. We hold our driver-partners in high regard for the work they do as entrepreneurs and stand by them against humiliation or intimidation of any kind.By Express News Service

BENGALURU/HUBBALLI: Not convinced by assurances of the state Congress leaders, a group of ministerial aspirants in the party is planning to meet Congress veteran Mallikarjun Kharge to bring pressure on the party high command to expand the cabinet before the start of the winter session of the state legislature on December 10.

Though former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and KPCC president Dinesh Gundu Rao have assured to complete the process before December 10, the ministerial aspirants see no hope of it happening. Siddaramaiah, who is the chairman of the coalition coordination committee, has convened a meeting of the committee on December 5 to discuss the issue.

A senior Congress MLA from northern Karnataka, who is one of the prominent ministerial aspirants, told The New Indian Express, "The party leadership has failed to keep its word on ministry expansion repeatedly over the last six months. AICC president Rahul Gandhi is expected to be free from assembly elections in northern states only after December 7. We see no hope of expansion happening before December 10.

Some of us are planning to meet our senior leader Mallikarjun Kharge to convey our demand, the MLA said. Some of the disgruntled Congress MLAs are even contemplating to meet Rahul Gandhi before December 10 for cabinet expansion.

Former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has said that the coalition governments coordination committee will meet on December 5 to decide over the long pending cabinet expansion.

Speaking at Hubballi airport on Sunday, Siddaramaiah said that the BJP is daydreaming by stating that the coalition government would fall after cabinet expansion. A decision on expansion will be taken during December 5 meeting, he said. The coalition government is strong, and there is no complaint against me from anyone. Our own MLAs are not as worried as the BJP is over cabinet expansion. Dreams of BS Yeddyurappa and K Eshwarappa of becoming CM will not be fulfilled, he said.

He also took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and questioned why the Central government was not implementing the Lokpal Bill. Prime Minister Modi gives long speeches abroad, but has failed to implement Lokpal Bill, he said. District minister R V Deshpande said that the BJP is doing politics over Indira Canteen issue.The 13th summit of the Group of 20 (G20) is held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Nov. 30, 2018. Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a speech titled "Look Beyond the Horizon and Steer the World Economy in the Right Direction" at the first session of the summit. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

BUENOS AIRES, Dec. 1 (Xinhua) -- Leaders of the Group of 20 (G20) major economies wrapped up a two-day summit here on Saturday amid a strong call for work in tandem to "steer the world economy in the right direction."

Addressing the 13th G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Chinese President Xi Jinping spelled out the risks facing the world economy, and the steps the developed and emerging economies can take to bolster global growth.

Given the various challenges and profound changes in the world landscape, Xi called on G20 members to "have a stronger sense of urgency, be rational in approach and look beyond the horizon."

OPENNESS AND MULTILATERALISM

Titled "Look Beyond the Horizon and Steer the World Economy in the Right Direction," Xi's brief but pertinent speech on Friday highlighted the danger of unilateralism and protectionism.

He offered a four-point solution that begins by calling on G20 members to "stay committed to openness and cooperation, and uphold the multilateral trading system."

His remarks were echoed by other G20 leaders, who also warned that the world economy is facing increasing risks as protectionism and unilateralism are on the rise.

"This is a time when we as world leaders have an opportunity to come together to address challenges head on and work through our differences for the common good," said Argentine President Mauricio Macri, the host.

"The spirit of the G20 is to promote a dialogue that is respectful of differences and to foster actions based on common interests," Macri added.

Echoing Xi's proposal, Brazilian economist Julio Miragaya said that the importance of multilateralism is "phenomenal" because without it the law of the jungle prevails.

Argentine political observer and columnist Jorge Castro said that by stressing the importance of the multilateral system, Xi "put the reality of today's trade into words."

"Multilateralism reflects the reality of today's global system," he said.

CLEAR VISION

In addition to openness and multilateralism, Xi's four-pronged solution also includes partnership, innovation and inclusiveness.

The Chinese president has a clear vision of how things are and need to be, said Castro.

"President Xi told his G20 colleagues that the world has entered a process of transformation, an era of a new industrial revolution, which is a challenge and an opportunity for the countries of the world," he added.

Argentine public policy expert Patricio Giusto also underscored Xi's ability to hone in on the issue.

"The speech was a strong and clear message, spotlighting the importance of opening-up and cooperation within the framework of the G20, for the sake of safeguarding the multilateral trading system," said Giusto, also a professor with the Catholic University of Argentina.

"The path China points to, of open cooperation to protect the multilateral system, is the path that the majority of G20 powers are betting on," he said.

CHINA ENGINE

Embracing the concept of an open economy and free trade is what helped China speed up development, enabling it to lift millions out of poverty, Xi noted.

"This year marks the 40th anniversary of China's reform and opening-up. During the past 40 years, with the support of the international community, we in China have forged ahead with perseverance and made historic achievements in development," said Xi.

According to Gonzalo Tordini, an Argentine expert in international economic cooperation, "China's most significant contribution" since launching its reform and opening-up has been reducing poverty.

Economic consultant Giusto described China's contribution to the global economy in recent decades as "enormous" as well as multifaceted.

"With expanding trade, investment and loans made through its financial agencies, China today accounts for about a third of global growth. In Latin America, China has become a strategic partner, based on a natural economic complementarity," said Giusto.

Castro, also head of the Institute of Strategic Planning in Argentina, believes China will continue to play a vital role in driving global growth as the engine of the world economy.

"China is the fundamental factor of global economic growth, and that trend is increasingly stronger. It's not for nothing that China is the main trade partner of 145 countries around the globe. That trend is going to hold," Castro said.By Express News Service

KOCHI: In a move to quell the criticism that its Sabarimala agitation was losing steam, an eight- member BJP delegation led by national general secretary Saroj Pandey MP met Governor P Sathasivam in Kochi on Sunday and submitted a petition demanding the lifting of prohibitory order (Sec 144) in and around the hill shrine.

The delegation, which also included MPs Pralhad Joshi, Vinod Sonkar, Nalin Kumar Kateel and V Muraleedharan, told the Governor that imposing Sec 144 in Sabarimala, where pilgrims usually arrive in groups, was not justified. They demanded that buses be allowed to ply up to Pampa.

The delegation alleged the police were harassing the pilgrims in the name of prohibitory order. They asked to provide pilgrims more water and also set up more facilities like toilets and rest rooms at Nilakkal, Pampa and on the way to Sannidhanam.

The BJP delegation alleged a number of false cases has been slapped on the partys state general secretary K Surendran. Sathasivam was in Kochi to attend the Operational Demonstration of the Naval Command as part of the Navy Day.

A press communique from the Governors office said he patiently heard them (the delegation members) and assured them their grievances would be urgently brought to the attention of the Chief Minister and Minister for Devaswom for necessary action.

Three BJP state leaders  president P S Sreedharan Pillai, general secretary A N Radhakrishnan and leader Sobha Surendran  were also part of the delegation.

Observers panel to visit Sabarimala

Kochi: The three-member panel of observers appointed by the Kerala High Court to ensure a smooth Sabarimala pilgrimage will conduct a two-day visit to the hill shrine from Monday. Meanwhile, the state government has decided to move the Supreme Court against the order.

At a glance

Tension prevails at Nilakkal on Sunday after eight BJP activists led by state spokesman B Gopalakrishnan violated the prohibitory order. Police arrest them and later release on bail

Yuvamorcha workers wave black flag at the Chief Minister on MC Road at Mulakkuzha, near Chengannur

NSS allege the government is trying to re-establish a caste divide in the state

The human wall is nothing but poison with a sugar coating, says Opposition leader Ramesh ChennithalaBy Express News Service

KOCHI: The three-member panel of observers appointed by the Kerala High Court to ensure a smooth Sabarimala pilgrimage will conduct a two-day visit to the hill shrine from Monday. The panel will visit Nilakkal and Pampa on Monday and will visit Sannidhanam on Tuesday.

Besides, talks with the erstwhile royal family of Pandalam, members of the Thantri family and other outfits also will be held on Tuesday. The visit is intended to ensure whether there are adequate facilities, including food, drinking water and toilet facilities.

The first meeting of the panel held at the government guest house, Aluva, on Sunday decided to ensure whether there were adequate infrastructure facilities for the pilgrims.

Our objective is to implement the direction of the High Court. The top priority is to ensure adequate facilities to the devotees, including drinking water and toilets, said Justice P R Rajan, member of the panel, adding all these issues will be looked into during its visit to Sannidhanam. The High Court has directed to lift the restrictions imposed on Sabarimala and hence it is also the view of the panel, he said. According to him, the lifting of the prohibitory orders imposed at Sabarimala did not come under for the consideration of the panel.

Besides, Justice P R Raman, Ombudsman for the Travancore and Cochin Devaswom Boards; Justice S Siri Jagan, chairman of the High Power Committee, Sabarimala; and DGP A Hemachandran are the other members of the panel.

TDB president A Padmakumar, member K P Sankaradas, Sabarimala Special Commissioner and District Judge M Manoj and senior officers of the Travancore Devaswam Board also attended the meeting.



The High court on Friday made it clear the observers shall have overall supervision and powers to take on-the-spot decisions or to give proper instructions to all concerned to give effect to the High Court order and ensure smooth pilgrimage is facilitated and there occurs no excess from any corner (whether from the part of the police/ Devaswom/ Forest/ PWD/ KWA/ or any such other bodies, if any).

If there occurs any difficulty in implementing the order or if further clarification is required, it was open for the team of observers or the stakeholders, as the case may be to bring it to the notice of the court for appropriate orders.

Kerala may move Supreme Court today

TPuram: The state government has decided to move the Supreme Court against the High Court order appointing a three-member body, comprising two retired High Court judges and a DGP, to oversee the activities in Sabarimala. A division bench of the High Court had appointed Judges P R Raman and S Sirijagan along with DGP A Hemachandran to oversee the proceedings at Sabarimala and take on-the-spot decisions to ensure the smooth progress of the pilgrim season. The state government is likely to move the Supreme Court on Monday and the state will be arguing the High Court order was against the Constitution.

Government sources said two senior advocates will plead the case before the apex court. The locus standi of the government will be the appointment of the observers is an infringement on the right of the executive and by doing so the court has created an administrative vacuum. Government sources said the right to manage Sabarimala rests with the government and by appointing a panel of observers who will report to the court, the judiciary has overlooked the governments responsibilities and right. The government is of the opinion that by roping in observers, the High Court has intruded into the jurisdiction of the executive and hence the decision is tantamount to violation of constitutional values. The government decision comes at a time when the panel of observers is set to visit Sabarimala to take stock of the prevailing situation.Sindu Choodan By

Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even after several orders from the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) to fill the post of provisional conductors in KSRTC based on the candidates rank list, the corporation has not considered it and it has been giving chances to their empanelled workers for regularising the vacant posts. A few candidates whose names were in the rank list of reserve conductors published in 2013 have filed a case in the High Court (HC) for not considering them for the job. Based on which the PSC has issued an interim order to the corporation to post these candidates by setting aside the persons who were regularised based on the 2011 Government Order (GO).

ALSO READ | OMR sheets to disappear from PSC examinations

As per the GO, the service of 1,353 conductors who were provisional employees in the KSRTC have been ordered to be regularised. Based on the order only those empanel workers who have completed 10 years of their service in KSRTC were permitted to be regularised. But here the employees were regularised based on the priority of various administration officials and the union leaders irrespective of their seniority and service, said Jude Joseph, KSRTC vehicle supervisor.

The staffs also alleged the PSC rank list candidates were avoided and the empanel workers were considered as the corporation need not have to give them the extra provisions of a permanent worker.

Even after the candidates under PSC rank lists were accorded sanction for the post, the corporation used to select candidates from the employment lists rather than PSC lists. Such steps were taken based on the interest of the corporation administration, said a corporation staff.

The High Court has issued an order on 2011, to regularise the provisional conductors in KSRTC who are engaged from the rank list of PSC. Due to the financial crisis faced by the corporation it resorted to post provisional conductors on daily wages to avoid the contingency.

As per the interim order, the petition was filed to set aside the Ext. P38 GO no 78/2011/TRAN dated 22.12.2011. Notice has been issued to all persons who are likely to be affected by the decision of the HC in the case. They have been directed to appear in person or through counsel before the court on or after December 17 else the petition will be decided in their absence.By PTI

BHUBANESWAR: An NGO-run shelter home has been sealed in Odisha's Dhenkanal district and two people, including its managing director, arrested following allegations that the minor inmates there were sexually abused, police said.

The action was taken two days after District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) Anuradha Goswami and members of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) raided the shelter home, acting on media reports which stated that girls were being allegedly abused at the facility.

ALSO READ | Odisha shelter home girls allege sexual abuse, in-charge arrested

The in-charge of the home, Simanchal Nayak, was apprehended on Saturday.

"The private shelter home, which has been operating illegally at Beltikiri area, was shut down by the police Sunday in presence of Dhenkanal Sadar Tehsildar U K Mohapatra and the DCPO," a district official said.

The girls at the home had alleged that they were harassed sexually, physically and mentally by Nayak over the past two years.

Nayak had, however, denied the allegations and said he was being framed for trying to enforce discipline at the shelter home.

Dhenkanal Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Sk Abdul Karim said the managing director of the shelter home, Fayaz Rahman, and another employee, Udit Lima, were arrested Sunday and the case was being investigated.

Describing the centre as "unregistered and illegal", Odisha Women and Child Development Minister (WCD) Prafulla Samal ordered its immediate closure Saturday.

She said district collectors across the state have been asked to shut down all 22 branches of the shelter home, operated by NGO Good News India.

Dhenkanal District Collector Nikhil Pavan Kalyan said appropriate action would be taken against offenders after a thorough investigation.

Senior officials of the district administration visited the shelter home and examined certain documents, besides questioning the staff Sunday.

ALSO READ | Muzaffarpur shelter home scandal: Court remands Manju Verma to one-day police custody

The inmates of the Dhenkanal shelter home -- 47 girls and 34 boys aged between 5 and 16 years -- have been shifted to another childcare institution nearby, the Dhenkanal Sadar Tehsildar said.

The incident has triggered sharp reaction from different quarters with opposition political parties coming down heavily on the BJD government.

Union Petroleum Minister and BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan demanded the resignation of Samal for the government's "failure" in preventing illegal functioning by an unregistered shelter home.

Senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Srikant Jena said the BJD government has "failed miserably in discharging" its responsibility.

The WCD minister, however, said the issue should not be politicised and asserted that the state government will leave no stone unturned to punish the guilty.

Meanwhile, a fact-finding team of the state BJP, led by its women's wing president Prabhati Parida, visited Beltikiri Sunday to assess the situation.

The team interacted with locals to find out the conditions at the shelter home, sources in the party said.

Hitting out at the state government, Parida alleged that the administration, local police and WCD minister had "knowledge about the illegal home".

Earlier this year, the central government had directed all states to inspect shelter homes in the aftermath of two alleged sexual abuse cases in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.By Express News Service

NEW DELHI/CHENNAI: With India keeping up its pressure to ferret out black money stashed abroad, Switzerland is learnt to have agreed to provide information on two more companies, one of which has a Chennai address.

While Geodesic Ltd is already under market regulator Sebis radar for multiple violations, Aadhi Enterprises Private Ltd is said to be politically well connected. The Swiss federal tax department has also agreed to share information on three individuals associated with Geodesic - Pankajkumar Onkar Srivastava, Prashant Sharad Mulekar and Kiran Kulkarni.

Incorporated in Chennai in November 2014, Aadhi is into real estate and other businesses. Income Tax raids earlier this year on the premises of Sunil Khetpalia and Maneesh Parmar, promoters of Aadhi, allegedly uncovered its money laundering footprint and benami holdings of people linked to politicians in Tamil Nadu.

Though Aadhi did not have any history of big business transactions, it received Rs 250 crore from Pacatolous Investments Ltd, a Mauritius firm, as foreign direct investment with RBI clearance for land acquisition. However, the Enforcement Directorate is yet to file any case against Aadhi under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

Aadhis name first popped up during I-T raids on the premises of Edison Energy India Private Ltd in Chennai, sources said.

Gazette notifications issued by Switzerland said its federal tax department would provide administrative assistance - jargon for sharing data - to India on Aadhi and Geodesic.

Dirty money footprintBy Express News Service

CHENNAI: A man was arrested by the Chennai city police after he assaulted a television channel reporter at Guindy on Monday. A protest was staged at Saidapet collectively by the members of DMK, MDMK, DK and VCK on Monday. During the protest, some DMK members allegedly got into nearby tea shops and demanded the owners to close them, said a police officer. One of the workers broke the glass jars of the shop and created a ruckus, said a police officer.

Meanwhile, Pramod, a reporter from an English television news channel, went on to shoot the video on his mobile camera and a man in the shop assaulted him. In the video that was circulated around social media, the man is seen pushing the camera down and hitting Pramod on his face. Pramod later lodged a complaint at the Guindy police station.

The police registered a case against the man identified as Suresh Babu on four sections - IPC 341 (wrongful restraint), IPC 294(b) (using obscene words), IPC 307 (attempt to murder) and IPC 506(ii) (criminal intimidation). He was arrested and remanded under judicial custody. Meanwhile, some party workers told the police that Suresh Babu was not a DMK member.By Associated Press

BUENOS AIRES: US President Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping agreed Saturday to suspend any new tariffs in the escalating trade war between the world's two largest economies, even if huge existing duties will remain in place.

Following more than two hours of dinner talks between the two leaders, the White House said an increase of tariffs from 10 to 25 per cent due to kick in on January 1 would now be put on hold, providing room for intense negotiations.

The agreement hashed out over steak in the Argentine capital Buenos Aires lowers the temperature in a conflict that has spooked world markets.

ALSO READ: US-China trade war: IMF warns tariffs could come at 'significant economic cost'

The two leaders, who were in Buenos Aires for a summit of the G20 countries, called it "a highly successful meeting," the White House said.

"The principal agreement has effectively prevented further expansion of economic friction between the two countries and has opened up new space for win-win cooperation," said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Partial truce

Under the agreement, Trump is shelving a plan to raise existing tariffs of 10 per cent to 25 per cent from the start of next year.

Xi avoids further immediate pressure on China's slowing economy, while Trump -- hit by the US Democrats' congressional win in last month's mid-term elections -- can ease damage to agricultural US states that export to China, particularly the key soybean crop.

"This was a rare opportunity for China because (the mid-terms) made Trump a lame president," said Beijing-based political consultant Hua Po.

ALSO READ: US-China trade row not a threat to world economy

"So at this time it was acceptable for China to maintain some bottom lines while making some major concessions."

But Brad Setser, a former Treasury official and now a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington, told Bloomberg much remains to be done.

"The hard part is finding the basis for a real deal that settles the broader issues rather than agreeing on a pause," Setser said. The truce is only partial.

Some $50 billion worth of Chinese imports already faces 25 per cent tariffs, while the 10 per cent tariffs -- which target a massive $200 billion in goods -- will also remain in effect.

Meanwhile, China has targeted $110 billion worth of US imports for tariffs. If there is any further retaliation, Trump has warned, he will slap punitive duties on the remaining $267 billion in Chinese goods coming to the United States.

And Saturday's truce also contained an ultimatum. The White House made clear that the 10 per cent tariffs would still leap up to 25 per cent if China doesn't meet US demands in 90 days.

These include China stopping a host of trade barriers, intellectual property theft and other actions that Washington say make fair trade impossible. Tough negotiations lie ahead, but Trump was upbeat.

"This was an amazing and productive meeting with unlimited possibilities for both the United States and China," he said in a statement.

Steaks and high stakes

The meeting -- featuring a menu of sirloin steak, caramel rolled pancakes and Argentine wine -- went on longer than scheduled. And while it may have been tacked on to the end of two days of G20 diplomacy, it was in many ways the main event of the weekend.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who was also attending the G20, spoke for many when she urged progress. "We all realize that we are indirectly influenced by the fact that Sino-American economic relations are not running as smoothly as a world order needs," she said.

Personal chemistry factor

On the US side at the dinner, Trump was accompanied by advisers such as Larry Kudlow and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who are widely seen as wanting a deal.

But hawkish advisers like Peter Navarro and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer were also present.

Trump, as often in his diplomatic dealings, appears to consider his personal chemistry with Xi the most important factor in the success of the negotiations.

He has prided himself on building a good relationship with the Chinese leader, even though he acknowledges it may have trouble surviving the growing crisis.

At the dinner, Trump said his ties to Xi were "a very primary reason" for considering a deal possible.By Associated Press

BUENOS AIRES: Leaders of the world's largest economic powers have agreed to overhaul the global body that regulates trade disputes, but they faced resistance from President Donald Trump over the Paris accord on climate change.

Here are some of the main developments at the Group of 20 summit, which wrapped up Saturday:

WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION

All G-20 leaders called for reforming the World Trade Organization and the issue will be discussed during the group's next summit in Osaka, Japan, in June. The gathering's final statement, however, did not mention protectionism after negotiators said the U.S. objected to the wording. Trump has criticized the WTO and taken aggressive trade policies targeting China and the European Union.

US-CHINA TRADE WAR

Financial markets will be cheered by the U.S. announcement that Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed at a dinner after the summit to have a 90-day truce in their trade battle.

Trump agreed to hold off on plans to raise tariffs Jan. 1 on $200 billion in Chinese goods. Xi agreed to buy a "not yet agreed upon, but very substantial amount of agricultural, energy, industrial" and other products from the United States to reduce America's huge trade deficit with China, the White House said.

The cease-fire will buy time for the two countries to work out their differences in a dispute over Beijing's aggressive drive to supplant U.S. technological dominance.

PRINCE UNDER PRESSURE: THE KHASHOGGI MURDER

There were some awkward moments for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as some leaders called him out over the gruesome October killing of dissident Saudi newspaper columnist Jamal Khashoggi at the country's consulate in Istanbul.

French President Emmanuel Macron was captured on video seemingly lecturing bin Salman, at one point being heard saying "I am worried," ''you never listen to me," and "I am a man of my word." Macron said the crown prince only "took note" of his concerns.

British Prime Minister Theresa May also said she pressed bin Salman.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey said Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was the only G-20 leader to raise the issue during the official session. Erdogan called bin Salman's response  that the crime had not been proven  "unbelievable" and complained that Saudi authorities have been uncooperative.

But it wasn't all bad for bin Salman. He was not shunned, and on the gathering's first day, he and Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in a hearty grip-and-grin as the two seemingly reveled in their shared status as relative outcasts.

U.S. intelligence agencies concluded the Saudi prince was behind the killing. Saudi Arabia denies he played a role.

UKRAINE CONFLICT

Western leaders confronted Putin over Russia's recent seizure of Ukrainian naval vessels and crews, but the diplomatic pressure didn't seem to bring either side closer to solving the conflict. Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of being responsible for the standoff.

Trump cited Russia's actions as the reason that he canceled a planned meeting with Putin on the sidelines of the summit. EU Council President Donald Tusk sharply criticized "Russia's aggression" against Ukraine.

Putin tried to convince Trump and the leaders of France and Germany that Russia's actions were justified  even pulling out a piece of paper and drawing a map of the disputed area to make his point.

CLIMATE CHANGE

The final communique signed by all 20 member nations said 19 of them reaffirmed their commitment to the Paris climate accord. The only holdout was the U.S., which has withdrawn from the pact under Trump.

Still, environmental groups praised the statement as welcome news.

"That G20 leaders signed up to the Paris Agreement reaffirmed their commitment to its full implementation in the resulting communique is important," the World Wildlife Fund said. "It is also a reflection of the Argentinian government rightly making climate an important topic on the agenda."

Greenpeace said that "the necessity of the U.S. being part of the effort to fight climate change cannot be denied, but this is a demonstration that the U.S. is still the odd one out."

NAFTA

After two years of negotiations, Trump signed a revised North American trade pact with the leaders of Canada and Mexico on the sidelines of the summit. The deal is meant to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement, which Trump long denigrated as a "disaster."

The new pact won't take effect unless approved by the legislatures of all three nations, and there are questions about the pact's prospects in the U.S. Congress, especially now that Democrats will control the House. Democrats and their allies in the labor movement are already demanding changes.

But Trump said on the way back to Washington that he plans to formally terminate NAFTA, so Congress will have to choose between accepting the new pact or going without a trade accord.

LOW EXPECTATIONS_LOW OUTPUT

Even the host country had lowered expectations ahead of the summit, saying before the gathering started that it might not be possible to reach a consensus for a final statement.

After sleepless days of round-the-clock talks by diplomats, a communique was produced, but analysts said leaders merely signed a watered down statement that skirted trade and other contentious issues.

"The G20 veered all over the road" at the summit and the leaders failed to fix trade, which is widely seen as a priority for boosting growth in jobs and economies, said Thomas Bernes, a distinguished fellow at the Centre for International Governance Innovation who has held leading roles with the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and Canada's government.

"Leaders buried their differences in obscure language and dropped language to fight protectionism, which had been included in every G-20 communique since the leaders' first summit. This is clearly a retrograde step forced by United States intransigence," Bernes said.By IANS

SAN FRANSISCO: Democrat Kamala Harris, the first Indian-American to serve in the US Senate, said she will make a decision about a potential 2020 presidential bid during the upcoming holiday season.

"It will ultimately be a family decision," Harris, who represents the state of California, told MSNBC during an event in San Francisco.

"And over the holiday, I will make that decision with my family."

Harris, 54, was elected to the Senate in 2016.

This cover image released by Philomel Books, an imprint of Penguin Young Readers, shows "Superheroes Are Everywhere," a book by Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif. Harris'. (Photo | AP)

She ranked fifth in a November poll of Democratic voters' preferred nominee to take on President Donald Trump's re-election bid, Politico news reported on Sunday.

Harris has sent $25,000 to the Democratic parties in four early nominating states: Iowa, South Carolina, Nevada and New Hampshire.

In October, she visited Iowa, South Carolina and Wisconsin to campaign for Democratic candidates ahead of the midterm elections.By PTI

COLOMBO: A Sri Lankan court Monday barred Mahinda Rajapaksa from acting as Prime Minister, in a major set back to President Maithripala Sirisena who had installed his former rival in place of Ranil Wickremesinghe in a controversial decision.

The Appeal Court issued notice and an interim order against Rajapaksa and his Government, preventing them from acting as Prime Minister, Cabinet and Deputy Ministers, Colombo Gazette reported.

The order was issued in a Quo Warranto case filed by 122 MPs against Rajapaksa and his Government.

Lanka is witnessing a political crisis since October 26 when President Sirisena sacked Wickeremesinghe and replaced him with Rajapaksa.

ALSO READ: Sri Lanka MPs boycott parliament as crisis drags on

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election.

The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls.

Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers.

Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.

The UNF has moved three no trust motions against Rajapaksa, who has refused to step down.A young lady from Argentina plays lion dancing. (Photo by Guan Kejiang from Peoples Daily)

China is a country where every place is full of development vitality. Seeing is believing, said Jorge Moletti, an Argentine student from the Confucius Institute at the University of Buenos Aires (UBA), who was impressed by Shenzhens modern development when he went to China last year.

I like China very much! said the 45-year-old man who can make daily conversation in fluent Chinese though he started to learn Mandarin not so long ago.

Moletti started learning Chinese because the company hes working for has cooperation with Chinas tech giant Huawei Technologies. Now, he has fallen in love with Chinese culture.

Locals in Buenos Aires dress in Hanfu, or Han-style clothing, to promote Chinese culture. (Photo by Guan Kejiang from Peoples Daily)

Moletti is one of the increasing number of Chinese learners in Argentina, whose closer ties with China in recent years have given a boost to their people-to-people and cultural exchanges.

The Confucius Institute at UBA in the center of Buenos Aires, capital of Argentina, has become a major platform to spread Chinese language and culture, and to enhance the connection between peoples of China and Argentina, since it was established in 2009.

The institute now offers Chinese courses to about 1,800 local students, and provides over 20 students with scholarships from Confucius Institute Headquarters each year.

In addition, the institute also established Chinese classes at the Argentine Chamber of Deputies and local enterprises, and provided 27 courses, including calligraphy, paper cutting, traditional Chinese painting and martial arts, for both students and other citizens.

Argentine people have great admiration for Chinas development achievements, and many of them believe that learning Chinese and knowing more about China will bring opportunities for a better self-development, Zhang Xiwen, a Chinese teacher of the Confucius Institute, told Peoples Daily.

A large number of students come to Chinese classes at night after finishing their work at daytime, said Zhang. She planned to launch online Chinese courses to meet the demands of learners living outside of the capital city.

I love Chinese culture very much, said Tamara Arellano, Molettis classmate who works for local tourism department and has learned Chinese for one year and a half.

Chinese people are diligent and courageous people with a spirit of innovation. I think its the spirit that drives Chinas development. Argentine people should have a deep understanding of Chinese culture and learn from China, she said.

Welcome President Xi Jinping to Argentina! Moletti and his classmates were all excited about Xis state visit to their country.

Its hoped that President Xis visit can bring strong Chinese elements to Argentina and upgrade the economic and trade cooperation and people-to-people exchanges between both countries to a higher level, Arellano said.By UNI

MOSCOW: A commander of the Taliban movement was killed in a US airstrike in the southern Afghan province of Helmand, media reported on Monday.

According to 1TV Afghanistan broadcaster, "a shadow Taliban governor in Helmand," Abdul Manan Akhund was killed on Saturday evening near the town of Nawzad along with four other Taliban militants.

Taliban called the killing of the commander a great loss for the movement, the broadcaster said.

Afghanistan has long been in a state of turmoil, with the government fighting the Taliban radical movement, which has been holding vast territories in rural areas under its control and regularly launches offensives in key big cities.

The situation has been exacerbated by the activities of the Islamic State terrorist group (IS, banned in Russia), which has been operating in Afghanistan since 2015.By PTI

PESHAWAR: A journalist was shot dead by unidentified men on Monday in northwest Pakistan, police said.

Noor-ul Hassan, who was working for a news agency and a private news channel, was shot dead by two motorcycle-borne gunmen who opened fire on his car in Peshawar's Sarband, they said.

He died on the spot while his cameraman sustained critical injuries. Police officials believe it was a "target killing".

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack. The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Union of Journalists condemned the attack. Five journalists have been killed in the restive province this year.Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. High around 35F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. Low 28F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.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).Chief Executive Carrie Lam met Secretary of the CPC Shanxi Provincial Committee Luo Huining at Government House today.

Mrs Lam welcomed his visit to Hong Kong to attend an event on attracting investment in the province.

During the meeting, Mrs Lam said exchanges between Shanxi and Hong Kong have become more frequent, adding the two places have close economic and trade ties.

She noted Shanxi has rich energy resources and a strong industrial base while Hong Kong has the unique advantage of "one country, two systems" with a well-established legal and judicial system, efficient professional services and a large pool of professional and management talents.

Mrs Lam said Hong Kongs advantages can provide a platform for Shanxi enterprises to attract foreign investment and go global and welcomed Shanxi firms to list in the city.

On people-to-people exchanges, Mrs Lam said Shanxi has rich heritage and hopes the province can arrange heritage exhibitions in the city to deepen Hong Kong people's understanding of it.

She also briefed Mr Luo on the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government's enhanced internship programmes in the Mainland for places including the Palace Museum, the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Wolong National Nature Reserve in Sichuan.

Mrs Lam said she hopes the Shanxi Government could provide similar internships for young Hong Kong people.Tieguanyin is a premium variety of Chinese oolong tea originated in Anxi County, Fujian Province. 50 years in deep storage has strengthened one particular jar of Anxi Tieguanyin's earthy notes. The Fujian Anxi Tieguanyin Group has brought it as a gift to the Palace Museum at a Chinese tea culture themed activity held on Nov 16. As part of the display, two ancient imperial tea relics were also unveiled, tracing back the traditional Chinese culture and promoting the spirit of tea makers through the ages.

"For thousands of years, Chinese society has evolved thanks to craftsmanship being passed down from generation to generation, particularly in tea making." said Liu Jiheng, Chairman of Fujian Anxi Tieguanyin Group. He further explained: "Craftsmen in tea making all have certain characteristics in common: perseverance, tenacity and a sense of inner peace. Making tea is not just about the technique, but more importantly about a combination of spirit and technique."

Tea farmers pick tea leaves in Anxi, Fujian Province.

"For Anxi Tieguanyin, we have a strong will to make it a better industry and export it to the world," Liu added.

There are over 1.8 million items stored and on display in the Palace Museum, of which more than 480 are tea relics. Hundreds of years ago, oolong tea from what is now Fujian province was sent as a tribute to the emperor.

"Tea is part of the Palace Museum collection, so the area from which the tea originates has an excellent opportunity to popularize its tea culture and industry through the platform," said Liang Jinsheng, a former director of the Department of Cultural Relics Administration at the Palace Museum.

Today, four tea masters from Anxi county took a solemn oath in front of the historical tea: "To make great tea, to never forget why we started, to inherit and to pass on, to protect Chinese tea, to carry forward the spirit of craftsmanship, and to devote our wisdom and strength to help the Chinese tea industry thrive."

They were selected by the Anxi Tieguanyin Tea Masters Competition to spread the spirit of craftsmanship around China.

50 years in deep storage has strengthened this jar of Anxi Tieguanyin's earthy notes. (Photo/Liu Ning)

Wang Qinghai, one of the tea masters explained: "The great cup of Anxi Tieguanyin tea comes from Anxi's unique climate, geographic location, craftsmanship and the particular tea leaves used. "

"Anxi has over a thousand years of history in making tea. We will continue to lead the tea farmers in Anxi to make great tea, to bring the pure fragrance of Guanyin leaves and flowers to the tea lovers," Wang added.

Tieguanyin is a premium variety of Chinese oolong tea originated in Anxi County, Fujian Province.

Echoing Wang's thought, Li Jindeng, another tea master who took the oath in front of the tea relics, said: "I feel very proud to see the extensive and profound culture of our tea featured and showcased here. What touches me the most is that our ancestors have left us with the craftsmanship of making tea. Of course, we will continue to carry it forward."Hong Kong will stay vigilant over market volatilities that may arise from uncertainties in negotiations between the Mainland and the US, despite the trade truce reached by the two countries.

Returning from the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Financial Secretary Paul Chan told reporters today the agreement reached between President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump over the weekend should help ease market worries and tensions.

However, he cautioned future negotiations between the two sides will not resolve their disputes immediately.

The Government will keep monitoring the market situation, he added.Chief Executive Carrie Lam today expressed her sorrow over the passing of former Under Secretary for Home Affairs Florence Hui.

She extended her deepest condolences to Ms Huis family.

Ms Hui was appointed Under Secretary for Home Affairs in 2008 and was among the first batch of Under Secretaries of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. She served until June 30, 2017.

Mrs Lam said Ms Hui was dedicated to serving the Hong Kong community and had promoted civic education, district and community relations, culture, recreation and sport.

Ms Hui was sincere and passionate about arts and culture and attached importance to communication with the industry, earning the respect of those who had worked with her inside and outside the Government, Mrs Lam added.

After leaving the Government, Ms Hui continued to serve the community and was appointed board member of the Hong Kong Palace Museum Limited in March.

I am deeply saddened by her passing away at such a young age, Mrs Lam said.

Secretary for Home Affairs Lau Kong-wah also expressed deep sorrow over Ms Huis passing.

He said she made immense contributions during her service, adding that she served with zeal, performed brilliantly and was friendly to fellow colleagues.

The Home Affairs Bureau is deeply saddened over her passing and she will be remembered fondly.President Emmerson Mnangagwa in his capacity as the Head of State and Government is the sole recipient of the report by the Commission of Inquiry into the August 1 post-election violence that left six people dead and destroyed property worth millions of dollars in Harare, Presidential spokesperson Mr George Charamba has said.





At law, Mr Charamba said, there was nothing that obligated the President to share the report with anyone or not to do so if he so wished. Mr Charamba explained the processes which are followed by the Commission in submitting its report to the President.



He said the day on which the report is submitted is not the same day that it finds its way into the public domain, if the President decides to share it with the public.







Mr Charamba said so far, the Commission had only submitted an executive summary of the report to the President and was yet to submit the main report which contained the observations and recommendations of the Commission.





He said it was surprising that the narrative forming in some sections of the media suggested that both the executive summary and the main report were already released.

There is nothing at law that compels the President to release the report to the public or not to release it to the public, said Mr Charamba.





The discretion is his. Where he has a bit of a limit is in respect of how the Commission conducts its hearings in terms of the law.





He is required by the Act to spell out that the Commission must conduct its hearings in camera otherwise the presumption of the law is that its through a public hearing and as you notice, the President in the interest of openness, of transparency and to ensure that the Commission itself operates in a way that shows integrity, he decided to make the hearings public, which is why they were televised.





There are certain things that dont make sense in terms of the way this matter has been handled and reported. Firstly, neither the executive summary nor the main report has been released. In other words, neither document is in the public domain, yet reading reports that are in the media one gets the sense that the executive summary or the main report has been released.





I am in charge of Presidential communication and in spite of my nearness, I have not seen both reports, so I am just wondering how those that are speaking eloquently about both the executive summary and the main report are doing it and from what authority.





The Act is very clear. The appointing authority of the Commission is the President and in terms of the Act, he is expected to provide terms of references and the President did both and in terms of the letter, he gave eight terms of reference to the Commission, all of which are very clear.

Mr Charamba said everything was set out clear for the commission.





Interestingly, term of reference number eight states very clear who the consumer of that report is. The report is for the President of Zimbabwe.





The Commission is required to tender that report to the President and in their wisdom they have chosen to do it in two stages, firstly by way of an executive summary and secondly by way of the main report.





I can confirm that last week the President received the only copy of the executive summary which was put under lock and key soon after he had gone through it. I have not been made aware that the Commission has submitted the main report and in any case, the Commission still has up to the 19th of December to meet its deadline.





Mr Charamba, who is also the Deputy Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet responsible for Presidential Communications continued: We took a deliberate decision not to publicise the executive report because definitionally that was for the Presidents eyes and in any case, the main report is what matters to the extent that it handles substantively the observations of the Commission as well as the recommendations.





So, in the absence of the main report it will be completely wrong and in fact misleading to try and submit to public view what is only an executive summary.





Its important to disabuse the members of the public, including those political groups that have been agitating around the Commissions actions  that the report is for the President who must receive it, read it and on the basis of his own judgement decides how it will be used.





Mr Charamba tackled some issues peddled by opposition activists claiming that some of the commissioners were biased. The Commission has international commissioners, he said.





It also has local commissioners and the locals are three and out of the three locals one was a presidential candidate (Professor Lovemore Madhuku) in the just ended elections, the other was a past president of the Law Society of Zimbabwe (Mrs Vimbai Nyemba) and the third is a Zanu-PF supporter (Professor Charity Manyeruke).





When you look at the first and the third, it is clear that the criteria for appointing commissioners was not restrained by political considerations because if they were, then certainly a 2018 presidential candidate would have been disqualified on those grounds.





Its rank dishonest to slit a commissioner merely for being a member of Zanu-PF who is not even an office holder, while turning a blind eye on another commissioner who was not just a politician, but a candidate in the 2018 elections.





What this all means is that least of the Presidents worry was the political choices or identities of the commissioners. His concern was the expertise which these commissioners would bring to the inquiry. Madhuku is a constitutional professor and Manyeruke is a political science professor. That is what makes them appointable and not their politics.





Really, this idea of rubbishing the Commission on the basis of who the commissioners are simply betrays a certain anxiety which is traceable to the role played by individuals and parties in the run-up to the August 1 conflict.





With regards to personnel who served as secretariat to the Commission, Mr Charamba said: The Commission has to work with staffers and to emphasise the importance of this inquiry the President decided that the Secretary to the Commission is no less than the person of the Secretary for Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs (Mrs Virginia Mabhiza) who automatically became the head of secretariat.





So, everyone else falls under the Secretary for Justice. The attempts to try and pit Secretary Mabhiza against Mr John Masuku, who is the spokesperson of the Commission, is preposterous. Mr Masuku is an employee of the Commission and a part of the secretariat which means he falls under Secretary Mabhiza and more importantly, he doesnt have a mind of his own or shouldnt in that capacity.





He speaks the mind of the Commission as expressed by the Commission through its Secretary. So lets not create false conflicts.





Mr Charamba said it was amazing that some political figures who submitted their evidence at the last minute wanted it to be prioritised and privileged.





He said there was nothing special about those political figures that warranted any special treatment of their evidence. What is more, bereaved families and injured persons found the Commission inspiring enough to enlist their participation, said Mr Charamba.





The Commission was not meant for opposition parties or activists. It was meant to provide facts and also to help affected families cope with the tragedies.





Really, for people to keep away from the Commission after the invitations and then present themselves at the last hour or even after the closure of hearings is to vainly seek to create some stupid drama which no one pays attention to.





They had all the time to do the submissions which they fluffed, but it also suggests a not so hidden agenda of trying to upstage the Commission by suggesting that their particular evidence should have been privileged. On what basis?





If the bereaved families came forward, who are you with your little ill-will to claim any privilege? We disregard that with the contempt it deserves.





Commenting on how the report is submitted to the President, Mr Charamba said: Procedurally, there is a process which is followed. For as long as the Commission is in session and before they have submitted their report to the President, the Commission keeps the public informed using its various instruments.





Once the report is formally submitted to the President, the next process comes under the auspices of the President through his machinery led by the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, but also after submission, the President reads the report that is the first stage. Two, he takes it to Cabinet for deliberation by Cabinet and on the basis of the outcome of that deliberation, decides on the appropriate course of action.





There are many other processes which follow the submission of the report and its debate in Cabinet.





For instance, if Government or the President is unclear on a recommendation from the Commission, the law allows the President to summon the commissioners to explain themselves or to avail more documents on the basis of which the recommendation was made, which means really its still an active document until its adopted by Government.





The President has to decide on its status, will it be released to the public or will it not be. That is a decision that the President still has to make and because of the anteceding processes, its illogical for anyone to suggest that the day and moment of presentation of the report is the day and moment of its release into the public domain.





The presentation of the report and its release to the public, assuming it goes that way, cannot be contemporaneous because the President still has to read, Cabinet still has to deliberate and feedback still has to be given to the Commission.





There is yet another step. Out of the set of recommendations which are made by the Commission, Government will still have to decide which warrants to accept which warrants to discard. But more critically, it has to decide which recommendations require further follow up action and follow up action takes many forms. HeraldFrance Decides

on Third Shots

but Not More

Restrictions(Newser)  The British royal family rarely responds to gossip, so mark the day. Rumor has it Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton aren't exactly pals, and Middleton may have barked at Markle for being rude to the Duchess of Cambridge's staff, per Town & Country. With similar gossip mounting in the UK press, a Kensington Palace rep actually spoke up: "This never happened," he tells the Sun.

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Other palace prattle has Markle making Middleton cry during a bridesmaid dress fitting for Princess Charlotte, and some royal staff calling Markle "dictatorial" over her alleged rudeness. Not exactly squelching rumors: Markle and hubby Prince Harry are moving into their own "grand" cottage. (Markle was accused of telling an "unconscionable lie.")(Newser)  Dick Cheney, an "iron ass"? Yep, he admits he was. On Fox News Sunday, the former vice president addressed the notion of "a fundamental break" between him and the late George HW Bush after Bush accused him of being "just iron ass," USA Today reports. Quoted in the 2015 John Meacham book Destiny and Power, Bush criticized Cheney's "seeming knuckling under to the real hard-charging guys who want to fight about everything" and said Cheney "had his own empire." Cheney's response: "I was more, I guess, of an 'iron ass' when I was vice president. ... [But] we'd had 3,000 of our people killed on 9/11, more people than we lost at Pearl Harbor and we moved, I think legitimately, into a war-time setting rather than simple law enforcement." For more Sunday talk:



GM Plants: "And clearly General Motors' decisions are in part based upon the tariff issue, so yes it has an impact, and it costs us jobs here in America," says Sen. Ben Cardin on Fox News Sunday about tariffs pushing GM to shutter five facilities, per Fox News.

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Mueller probe : "If you lie to Congress, we're going to go after you. We're going to make sure that gets referred," says Sen. Mark Warner on CBS' Face the Nation, per CBS News. "And we've made a number of referrals."

: "If you lie to Congress, we're going to go after you. We're going to make sure that gets referred," says Sen. Mark Warner on CBS' Face the Nation, per CBS News. "And we've made a number of referrals." The Kremlin : "The fact that [Michael Cohen] was lying to the American people about doing business in Russia, and that the Kremlin knew he was lying, gave the Kremlin a hold over [President Trump]," says Rep. Jerrold Nadler on NBC's Meet the Press about Cohen's latest admission of lying, per NBC News. "...Does the Kremlin still have a hold over [Trump] because of other lies they know about?"

: "The fact that [Michael Cohen] was lying to the American people about doing business in Russia, and that the Kremlin knew he was lying, gave the Kremlin a hold over [President Trump]," says Rep. Jerrold Nadler on NBC's Meet the Press about Cohen's latest admission of lying, per NBC News. "...Does the Kremlin still have a hold over [Trump] because of other lies they know about?" Stone pardon : "There's no circumstance under which I would testify against the president because I'd have to bear false witness against him," says Trump confidant Roger Stone on ABC's This Week, per the Guardian. "I'd have to make things up. ... I've had no discussion regarding a pardon."

: "There's no circumstance under which I would testify against the president because I'd have to bear false witness against him," says Trump confidant Roger Stone on ABC's This Week, per the Guardian. "I'd have to make things up. ... I've had no discussion regarding a pardon." Manafort pardon : "The president continues to dangle a pardon for Paul Manafort, which only adds to growing body of evidence that the president is engaged in obstructing justice," says Rep. Adam Schiff on This Week, per the Hill. Trump says he won't take a possible Manafort pardon "off the table."

: "The president continues to dangle a pardon for Paul Manafort, which only adds to growing body of evidence that the president is engaged in obstructing justice," says Rep. Adam Schiff on This Week, per the Hill. Trump says he won't take a possible Manafort pardon "off the table." George HW Bush: "He was the most qualified person, with respect to foreign policy, ever to serve as president of the United States of America," says Colin Powell of the late former president on This Week, per ABC News.

Meanwhile, Alec Baldwin reprised his Trump role on Saturday Night Live . (Read more Sunday morning talk shows stories.)(Newser)  When texting with a friend, Jamal Khashoggi didn't hold back in his assessment of Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman. He called the prince a "beast 'pac man,'" because "the more victims he eats, the more he wants." The friend, a fellow dissident named Omar Abdulaziz who now lives in Canada, showed months of similar texts to CNN, and they went beyond mere insults. The two men were organizing an online movement against the prince on Twitter, and Abdulaziz says the Saudis found out about it by hacking his phone. When he informed Khashoggi of this, the journalist replied, "God help us." Two months later, Khashoggi was killed by Saudi operatives.

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"The hacking of my phone played a major role in what happened to Jamal, I am really sorry to say," Abdulaziz tells CNN. "The guilt is killing me." On Sunday, Abdulaziz sued an Israeli surveillance company called the NSO Group for selling software to Saudi Arabia used in the hacking, reports the AP. The company insists that its product is used only by governments to fight terrorism and crime, but dissidents and journalists in other nations, including Qatar and Mexico, say repressive governments are increasingly using it to rein in opposition figures. The software works by sending a link to a victim; once clicked, the person's texts become exposed. (The prince himself sent at least 11 messages to his top security aide in the hours before and after Khashoggi's murder.)(Newser)  A North Dakota man has admitted stealing a forklift as part of a bizarre plot to kill President Trump last year. US Assistant State's Attorney Brandi Sasse Russell says Gregory Lee Leingang, 42, stole the forklift and made his way to the motorcade route before Trump arrived to speak at a refinery in Mandan on Sept. 6, 2017, the Grand Forks Herald reports. "The intent was to basically try to get to the limo, flip the limo and get to the president and he wanted to kill the president," Sasse Russell told a federal court Friday. As part of a plea deal, Leingang admitted attempting to damage government property and "attempting to enter or remain in a restricted building and on grounds while using a dangerous weapon."

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Leingang was arrested after the forklift became stuck in a gated area. Public defender Michelle Monteiro told the court the Bismarck resident was "suffering a serious psychiatric crisis during this incident" and his mental health has improved after seeing a psychiatrist and a therapist in prison. She said Leingang pleaded guilty in state court to stealing the forklift and setting two fires the same morning. He received 15 years for those crimes and five years for an unrelated burglary charge. Leingang will be sentenced on the federal charges Feb. 15, and Sasse Russell says she is considering making the federal sentence concurrent to the time he is serving on the state charges. (In 2016, a British man who admitted plotting to kill Trump was sentenced to a year and a day in federal custody.)(Newser)  The "childhood innocence of the holiday season" has been snatched away from a bunch of elementary school students, a New Jersey principal lamentsand it's all because of a substitute teacher gone rogue. Not since the Elf Foreman told Hermey that elves couldn't be dentists has there been such a "bah humbug" moment, per CBS News, which reports on the incident at Montville's Cedar Hill School, where a sub told first-graders that Santa wasn't real and their parents are the ones putting presents under the tree. But she wasn't done there, adding that "reindeer can't fly," "elves are not real," and "Elf on the Shelf is just a pretend doll that your parents move around," distressed mom Lisa Simek wrote on Facebook, noting that the teacher tried to "crush our 6-year-old's spirit."

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The Tooth Fairy and Easter Bunny also had their covers blown, and the sub told kids that "magic does not exist," Simek adds, noting she and fellow parents had to do "damage control." The substitute was reprimanded for her "poor judgment," Principal Michael Raj says, per CBS, while the district's superintendent said in a statement she was "troubled" and "disheartened" by what had transpired. The Christmas spirit, however, still abounds: A high school teacher in Toms River has recruited her class to write letters from the North Pole to the first-graders, per Simek, who adds she doesn't want anyone being mean to the sub. "We don't know her situation and perspective, and no matter how unfortunate a situation, we must all learn from this that Christmas magic is real," she writes. (An orchestra conductor pulled a similar stunt after a performance of Frozen.)YINCHUAN, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- Hadina, from Egypt, was surprised to find her painting included in the "Art Travel" program by Yinchuan Han Meilin Art Museum and displayed at the museum in northwest China.

"It's really exciting that visitors from all over the world can see my painting," said Hadina, 32.

Yinchuan Han Meilin Art Museum, located in the Helan Mountains Rock Art Heritage Park in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, is currently exhibiting the fine arts of Chinese artist Han Meilin. Beginning this summer, the museum has a new installation: a 4 meter-high, 7 meter-long "picture wall" made of 560 paintings by 560 ordinary people from around the world, including Hadina's.

"This 'picture wall' is a result of our 'Art Travel' program," said Zhang Xu, responsible for the program. "It was designed for ordinary people who have an artistic dream."

The program began last September. Authorities divided a big picture of the panoramic view of the museum and the Helan Mountains behind it into 560 pieces, and mailed the pieces, a picture of the panoramic view, and a small blank canvas to each participant. The participants were required to paint the canvas within a month. They needed to make sure that the museum's outline was visible after painting the canvases, so that when the pieces were put together, the image of the museum and the mountains was still visible.

"The participants had various occupations, ages, and even nationalities," Zhang said. "As long as they left their addresses, our canvases would reach them and have their stories recorded in their paintings," Zhang said, adding that the canvases had traveled to almost every corner of the country, and even some foreigners in China, such as Hadina, had signed up.

"The moment I opened the parcel and saw the picture of the museum, I was quite curious what it would be like if my painting were part of it," said Hadina. "Blue sky, green leaves and red dates are typical in my country, so I drew my homesickness into a date palm."

Months ago, she paid a visit to the museum, and was more than happy to find her painting included in the final "picture wall."

"It's amazing to see hundreds of different paintings combined so perfectly in one picture, and I'm proud that one of them belongs to me," she said.

Xie Huihua, 23, from south China's Guangdong Province, felt rather thrilled to find that not only her painting but also her pupils' paintings were included in the "picture wall."

Last year, Xie volunteered to teach art in a remote Tibetan primary school. She said it was hard for local children to get in touch with the outside world, so when told that their paintings would be displayed in a museum thousands of miles away, some jumped at the chance.

"Children may lack painting skills, but they are rich in imagination," Xie said. "Their images, like houses and flowers, were mostly drawn with simple lines, but these things indicate their childhood, carefree attitude, and passion for color."

Xie also drew a picture, in which her students were running and playing under a tree by a river. A distant snow mountain was reflected in the clear water.

"Sometimes I feel that life is all about wonderful encounters, like my experience with those Tibetan kids, as well as theirs with the 'Art Travel' program," said Xie.

Most participants wrote down their stories on the paintings to make themselves understood.

Yang Huichao, a guide in the museum, said she was deeply touched when memorizing the art stories.

"Art is usually regarded as untouchable for ordinary people, but their paintings made art more real," Yang said. "Some people painted to pray for ill family members, to realize a childhood dream, or to show their inner world."

The final "picture wall" has been on display for half a year, attracting many visitors who not only took photos but also explored the stories behind. Some 100 participants came to see the exhibition themselves.

"Some kids were so excited that they jumped to point out their own paintings and kept saying 'Look! This is mine!'" Yang said. "Introducing 560 paintings to the public may have increased my workload, but I quite enjoy it."

According to Yang, the museum plans to upload all the paintings and their related stories on a digital screen, allowing visitors to touch the screen to read the stories.

"Currently, we are printing 1,000 albums, and each participant will get one as a way to cherish their contribution," Yang said.(Newser)  Central European University is said to be the best graduate school in Hungary, but it just became the first university to get kicked out of an EU nation. The Washington Post calls it "one of the surest signals to date of autocracy's return to the country," and it's apparently tied to the ongoing "grudge match" between Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Hungarian-American philanthropist George Soros, who founded the CEU. The school has been a target since at least spring 2017, when Hungary pushed through legislation that mandated foreign schools establish academic programs in their home countries. CEU set up a program at New York's Bard College, but Hungary refuses to recognize it. "Arbitrary eviction of a reputable university is a flagrant violation of academic freedom," CEU announced. "It is a dark day for Europe and a dark day for Hungary."

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Orban has long gone after the liberal Soros, a feud that escalated in 2015 after the Orban-led right-wing government took issue with Soros calling for the humane treatment of refugees, per the Guardian. BuzzFeed also paints the development as a "defeat for the Trump administration," as US officials had lobbied to keep the school where it is, and Trump has tried to curry favor with Orban rather than isolating him, as previous US presidents had done. Al Jazeera notes the university had set a Dec. 1 deadline for a deal to be struck with Hungary and that its decision to leave wasn't by choice. "CEU has been forced out," says the school's president, Michael Ignatieff, per Euronews. "This is unprecedented." The university will relocate to Vienna. (Facebook admits it conducted opposition research on Soros.)(Newser)  Nice try, Emile Ratelband. A Dutch court has ruled that the 69-year-old must remain 69, rejecting his request to be officially recognized as 49, reports the AP. The motivational speaker's legal gambit drew international attention, but the court in Arnhem wasn't having it. "Mr. Ratelband is at liberty to feel 20 years younger than his real age and to act accordingly," the court in a statement. "But amending his date of birth would cause 20 years of records to vanish from the register of births, deaths, marriages, and registered partnerships. This would have a variety of undesirable legal and societal implications."

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The silver lining for Ratelband is that he has gotten loads of publicity, which should help him as a self-titled "positivity trainer." Ratelband had said he suffered age discrimination and argued that if people could change their name and gender, he should be allowed to change his age, per the BBC. Nope, said the court, deciding that the precedent would be too confusing. "Rights and obligations are also attached to age," said the court. "For example, the right to vote, the right to marry, the opportunity to drink alcohol and to drive a car." Among other things, the judges worried about the implications of younger people deciding they'd like to be considered older. (Maybe he can console himself with porcini mushrooms.)(Newser)  Putting the word "exotic" in front of "tick" doesn't make the arachnid any more appealing, especially since one type is now proliferating across the US and bringing potential sicknesses with them. USA Today reports on a new warning from the CDC, which notes that the "fast-multiplying" Asian longhorned tick first made an appearance in August 2017 on a New Jersey sheep (one had previously been found there, in 2013 on a dog), and has since spread to at least eight other statesNew York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, and Arkansas. The ticks have dug in not just on livestock, but also on pets, animals in the wild, and humans, and they've been spotted as well in environmental samples. "We are concerned that this tick, which can cause massive infestations ... is spreading in the United States," a CDC director notes.

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What makes the tick particularly concerning is that a female can shoot out up to 2,000 eggs at a time without mating help from a malemeaning one person or animal can end up as an unfortunate host to thousands of ticks. An unfed Asian longhorned tick can survive for up to a year. Health officials aren't sure whether the Asian longhorned tick can spread Lyme disease, but what it can spread is bad enough. Forbes notes those sicknesses have included a trio of "nasty" viruses, including the SFTS and Heartland viruses, as well as other disease-carrying microbes, though there've been no reports yet of any of those illnesses being transmitted in the US by the tick. Livestock in particular has been affected by this critter in Australia and New Zealand, where it's been capable of reducing dairy production by 25%. (An insecticide that can give ticks "hot feet" so they fall off of you.)(Newser)  George HW Bush was known for his colorful socks, so it's only fitting he will be buried in a special pair. Spokesman Jim McGrath tweeted the image Monday: The socks feature planes flying in formation, a nod to Bush's own history as a young Navy pilot, reports Fox News. The former president will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda beginning Monday, and his service dog, Sully, will accompany his casket from Texas to DC. After a funeral service Wednesday in Washington, Bush's casket will go back to Texas for burial. (Bush's last words were to son George.)(Newser)  Two Minneapolis police officers are on leave due to their ill-advised Christmas ornament choices. A photo of the Fourth Precinct's Christmas tree made headlines after being shared on social media last week; the tree was decorated with items including a Newport cigarette pack, a can of Steel Reserve malt liquor, police tape, bags of Takis and Flamin' Hot Funyuns, and a Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen soda cup in what longtime civil rights activist Ron Edwards called a "wink wink" to racist tropes. "Its a modern-day version of a dog whistle," he says, per the Minneapolis Star Tribune. The items were placed on the tree as a prank after it was decorated, CBS Minnesota reports.

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The Star Tribune notes that the North Side precinct has "struggled to rebuild community trust" since the fatal 2015 shooting of Jamar Clark, an unarmed black man, which sparked major protests. More protests have been launched since the Christmas tree, which has since been taken down entirely, came to light. Mayor Jacob Frey said an internal investigation has been opened into the "racist display," and Police Chief Medaria Arradondo said he was "ashamed and appalled." A police rep says the officers involved have been "relieved of duty" but are still being paid pending the results of the investigation, KARE reports. (A hospital worker lost her job over a racist Election Day outfit.)(Newser)  Sir David Attenborough was holding no punches during an address Monday at a summit hosted by the United Nations. Per BBC, the beloved British naturalist used his time at the podium to issue a dire warning to humanity regarding climate change: "If we don't take action, the collapse of our civilizations and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizon." Attenborough, known worldwide for his uniquely passionate nature documentary narrations, was invited to the COP24 UN climate conference in the city of Katowice as a representative of the people of the world, many of who sent in messages that Attenborough reportedly used to inform his speech.

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"The world's people have spoken," Attenborough said, per CNN. "Their message is clear. Time is running out." Attenborough went on to issue a call to world leaders to take decisive action now. "The continuation of our civilizations and the natural world on which we depend is in your hands," he said. The 92-year-old specifically addressed the US after he was questioned about the Trump administration's decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. "Join the rest of the world," he urged the US. (Meanwhile, several US cities and at least one state have opted themselves into the worldwide accord regardless of the president's intentions.)(Newser)  Jacquelyn Smith's husband was driving, with the Maryland woman in the passenger seat and her stepdaughter in the back, when Smith rolled down her window to give money to a panhandler standing near a Baltimore intersection early Saturday as the trio returned home from celebrating a birthday. The young woman appeared to be holding a swaddled infant and had a sign reading, "Please help me feed my baby," the AP reports. But as Smith was handing her money, a man approached the car and started struggling with Smith over her wallet. He ultimately stabbed her in the torso, then ran off with the panhandler, police say. Smith's husband, Keith, rushed her to the emergency room, but she died hours later, the Baltimore Sun reports.

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Police are still searching for the suspects, who made off with Smith's pocketbook and necklace. The man who approached the car asked Keith Smith if he could thank his wife before the struggle ensued, and after the stabbing, Smith says, the woman posing as a panhandler paused before running off: "This girl actually said 'God bless you,'" he says. Jacquelyn Smith, 54, leaves behind two sons, WMAR reports. Her 19-year-old son says she was always looking for ways to be kind to others. "I think it was a split second decision of wanting to help somebody else. She really cared for everybody. She loved everyone and was very compassionate." (Another Good Samaritan was killed after pulling over to help someone.)A spokesman for the Chinese military on Thursday said that China's standby peacekeeping force had passed an assessment by the United Nations.

The result was announced by UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix, according to Ren Guoqiang, spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense.

Ren said at a regular press conference that China has also offered training for more than 1,500 peacekeepers from dozens of countries.

China will actively consider the UN's invitation to send more types of peacekeepers to fulfill missions, make more contributions to the cause of UN peacekeeping and safeguard world and regional peace and stability, Ren said.

Ren also said that the seventh China-India Hand-in-hand Army Joint Training Exercise will be held in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province, from Dec. 10 to 23. Both sides will send 100 participants, Ren said.

"The joint drill will increase mutual understanding and trust between the Chinese and Indian militaries, deepen pragmatic communication and cooperation and enhance capacity of responding to terrorist threats," Ren said.

The spokesperson said that Chinese and Pakistani air forces will stage a joint training exercise from Nov. 30 to Dec. 23 in Pakistan. Code-named "Shaheen VII," the exercise is the seventh such drill between the two countries.A ceremony was held yesterday at the Bahrain National Museum marking the 47th UAE National Day. The UAE Embassy hosted the celebratory event in the presence of senior officials, members of the diplomatic corps, artists and other figures. UAE Ambassador Shaikh Sultan bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan hailed his countrys landmark strides, paying tribute to UAE founder and development architect late Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

In a statement to Bahrain News Agency (BNA), he said that the 47th National Day coincides with the Year of Zayed tribute. He commended strong historic relations binding the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, based on historic fraternal ties, which went down generations. Shura Council Chairman Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh extended deepest congratulations to the UAE leaders and its people on the 47th National Day, wishing them further progress and prosperity.His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa paid a visit yesterday to the UAE Ambassadors residence to attend the UAEs celebration of its 47th National Day.

He was received by the UAE Ambassador to Bahrain Shaikh Sultan bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan. HRH the Premier expressed happiness about attending the UAE National Day festivities, stressing deep-rooted fraternal ties binding both countries. He congratulated the UAE leadership and people, lauding the UAEs continuous achievements in various fields.The newly-elected parliament will have an entirely new look like only three incumbents won the electoral battle this time. The strong youth representation will also make the new parliament look different from the previous ones. The number of women lawmakers have doubled to six when compared to the last parliament. Adel Al Asoomi who won the first constituency of the Capital Governorate, Isa Al Kooheji representing the fourth constituency of Muharraq Governorate and Ghazi Al Rahmah who emerged winner in the fourth constituency of Northern Governorate are the only incumbents who have made it to the new parliament.

Many existing lawmakers lost the electoral battle this time. MP Rua Al Haiki was ousted in the first round of voting while other incumbents including Mohammed Al Maarifi, Mohammed Al Ammadi, Abdulrahman Bumjaid, Nasser Al Qaseer, Ali Al Atish, Ibrahim Al Hammadi, Mohammed Al Ahmed and Abdulrahman Bu Ali were defeated in the second round of the elections. Former MPs who won the seats include Ali Ahmed Al Zayed, Isa Al Qadhi, Yousif Zainal and Abdulnabi Salman.

Political analysis group Citizens for Bahrain said in its commentary the Bahraini public was frustrated with the performance of the outgoing parliament members. Nevertheless, the 2018 elections sent an even more decisive message from Bahrainis regarding their frustration over the performance of existing MPs. In the first round, Adel Al Asoomi and Isa Al Kooheji once again proved their local popularity by winning their seats outright.An election monitor has released a report detailing the intimidation tactics used by extremist organisations during the recent parliamentary and municipal elections to prevent people from voting. A number of extremist organisations attempted to influence the elections with the use of intimidation techniques against voters, according to a new report by the Bahrain Human Rights Watch Society who monitored the polls.

Extremist organisations operating out of the United Kingdom, Lebanon, Iran and Iraq, all with the support of Iran were responsible for the intimidation campaign, according to the report. The report stated that the campaigns were a form of Iranian interference in Bahrains internal affairs. The campaigns included spreading rumours, holding press conferences, holding illegal rallies and exploiting of social media.

The report stated that the most affected was the northern governorate which was targeted with numerous intimidation campaigns. One of the campaigns included sending misleading messages to voters. Voters received messages stating that they are ineligible to vote as their names were removed from the voters' list. The malicious hackers sent the messages disguised as Bahraini authorities.US Special Representative for Iran, Brian Hook, has praised the continuous partnership between Bahrain and the US, and commended the tremendous efforts exerted by the Kingdom to expose the malicious activities of the Iranian regime in the region. Speaking during a press conference in which he displayed Iran-made weapons that are used to destabilise the region and the world, Hook stressed that Bahrain exerts tremendous efforts to face extremism and terrorism through which the Iranian regime seeks to subvert the stability of the kingdom and the region.

The US envoys statements come at a time when Bahrain succeeded, through its ongoing security efforts, in countering many interference attempts by Iran and in thwarting the Iran-backed schemes in recent years. He said that there is a range of Iran-made weapons, such as sniper weapons, explosives, RPGs and others, that had been supplied to the US by the Kingdom of Bahrain, noting that Iran had provided these weapons to extremist groups with the aim of carrying out terrorist attacks targeting Bahrain. Hook extended sincere thanks to the Foreign Affairs Minister, Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, for his full commitment to uncovering Irans malevolent activities.

The US envoy highlighted the Iranian regimes approach in destabilising the region, whose countries, he said, have suffered a lot from such a regime over the past years, which should be faced openly, he stressed. Hook lauded the efforts of the Bahraini Embassy in Washington, and its constant cooperation with the US Administration, stressing that his country backs Bahrain and appreciates its efforts in dealing with extremist groups, and affirming that cooperation between the two countries is essential in achieving security and stability in the region.Canada said Saturday it will send a delegation to Cuba next week to reevaluate its presence there after another diplomat was diagnosed with a mysterious brain injury that has affected several dozen North American envoys to the island. Since 2016, 13 Canadians and 25 Americans have all reported similar unexplained symptoms, including dizziness, fatigue, headaches, hearing and vision complications, a loss of balance, nausea and an inability to concentrate.

A delegation of senior officials will return to Cuba next week to review Canadas current operations and determine how we can further reduce the risks to our diplomatic staff, foreign ministry spokesman Richard Walker said. He said Canada was considering all options, without offering details. The Canadian government said it had allowed employees currently in Cuba to return home, if they wanted to.

Canadian and US initially suspected an attack using some sort of acoustic weapon, which led to heightened diplomatic tensions between Washington and the Caribbean nation.National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with KP Real Estate SPC, a leading Bahrain based real estate developer, to provide home financing for the companys Janayin Al Hamala project. With this agreement, NBB will offer to finance for the purchase of villas in the project which includes 148 readyfor-sale residential villas.

Bank staff will work closely with applicants providing personalized services to guide them through all requirements and documentation and can tailor mortgage financing options to the requirements of eligible customers. Commenting, Abdulaziz Al Ahmad, Chief Executive  Retail, Commercial & SMEs at NBB, said, We look forward to working closely with KP Real Estate to help customers select and finance the purchase of their dream home in this unique and high-quality residential complex.American Express Middle East in partnership with Nest concluded its first Accelerator programme the ACCELERATE ME by hosting its first annual Demo Day. At the event, the six participating start-ups presented their business solutions to Bahrains business and Fintech community.

The Demo Day follows the eight weeks ACCELERATE ME programme, which aims at connecting the next generation of startups and newly established SMEs from around the world with Bahrain and the Middle East region in general. ACCELERATE ME start-ups focused on a range of innovative technologies in areas such as delivering differentiated service experiences, automated payment solutions, and alternative physical and digital platforms to drive the move to a cashless society using secured and progressive technologies.

Speaking on this occasion, Mazin Khoury, CEO of American Express Middle East said: Through this initiative, we are backing new partnerships to be formed, bridging the gap between corporate organisations and the fintech community in Bahrain and the region to enable the move to a cashless society and make a difference in community we live in. CEO of Nest, Lawrence Morgan also commented: This is the start-up frontier and we are excited to partner with American Express Middle East on innovation and digital transformation.Tw enty graduates from Tahleeq 1 Programme got hired by the Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) on a full-time basis, who will now work in specialised fields that will support the development of the Kingdoms aviation sector. This was announced during a graduation ceremony held to mark the official completion of Tahleeq 1 Programme, an ambitious capacity building and development initiative aimed at shaping the future leaders of Bahrains aviation industry.

The event also marked the launch of Tahleeq 3, which is the biggest in the series to date. To meet the increased demand, the number of placements this year has doubled, bringing the total to 40. The launch of Tahleeq 2 last year saw 20 new Bahraini graduates enter the capacity building programme. Held under the patronage of Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications and BAC Chairman, Kamal Ahmed, the ceremony was attended by Tamkeen Chief Executive Officer Dr Ebrahim Mohammed Janahi, BAC Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah, and officials from the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, Tamkeen, BIA Partners and BAC.

Speaking at the event, the Minister said: Over the past four years, they have shown dedication, commitment, and high levels of competence in all areas. Working alongside the Airport Modernisation Programmes (AMP) international consultants and contractors, they have gained the required knowledge, expertise, and competencies to work in various disciplines within in the aviation sector. Highlighting the programmes key role in supporting, training, and developing local Bahraini talent, Dr Janahi said: It creates valuable opportunities that enable Bahrainis to play an active role in the countrys various development projects, including the AMP.

Tahleeq 1 Programme runs in parallel with the AMP, which is nearing an advanced stage of completion. In February 2019, the new Passenger Terminal Building will undergo the next phase of testing, providing an opportunity for the new trainees to gain experience working alongside specialised international consultants. BAC launched the initiative in 2014 in association with Tamkeen and the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications. Through both theoretical and practical training, it equips participants with advanced skill sets required as part of the AMP.Chinas dance drama To Meet Grand Canal was presented in Panama on November 18, marking the biggest cultural and artistic exchange between the two countries since the establishment of diplomatic ties.

With a record-setting attendance of over 6,000 people, the dance drama, featuring the long history and enduring culture of the Chinas Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, deeply moved the Panamanian audience, who applauded and cheered after the show ended.

An official with the Panamanian Ministry of Culture surnamed Alexandra said she felt touched by the scene of garbage-picking residents trying to protect the canal, saying that protecting grand canals is like protecting the mother river of all human beings.

Though the two countries have a different history and culture, China and Panama share the same feeling for their respective canal. The Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, listed as a world heritage site in 2014, has witnessed the development of China and nourished one generation of Chinese after another. To Panamanians, the Panama Canal plays the same role. This shared feeling not only creates a connection between Chinese performers and Panamanian audiences, but also between China and Panama.

This year marks the first anniversary of China-Panama diplomatic ties, thus the drama was more of a cultural exchange than a regular stage performance.

The performance will strengthen the friendship between our two peoples and promote cooperation between the two countries, said Wei Qiang, the Chinese ambassador to Panama.

Juan Francisco, an official with the Panamanian Ministry of Culture, said that culture and art are the best two bridges of communication.

To Meet Grand Canal, the first Chinese dance drama made by Hangzhou Opera and Dance Theatre for introducing Chinese cultural heritage, integrates action art and theatrics to depict the history of the Grand Canal and its cultural value by mixing tradition with the modern, history, and the future. The dance drama started its world tour in 2017 and has been performed in France, Germany, Egypt, and other countries.Mrs. Naomi Fanto, a woman activist and Action Democratic Party (ADP), candidate for the Plateau South senate seat, has advised rural voters to look beyond the two leading political parties in 2019.Fanto, a lawyer, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Monday in Jos that the two parties  the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the All Progressives Congress (APC)  had disappointed the rural dwellers over the years.The 2019 elections provide an opportunity for the rural voters to test new leaders outside the PDP and APC.The PDP led Plateau for 16 years. Some of its leaders moved to the APC in 2014 and formed the state government in 2015, but nothing has changed for the rural dwellers.They still suffer utter neglect. There are no roads, no health facilities and electricity. The schools are an eyesore. We cannot continue like this, Fanto said.The lawyer, who said that she had been a member of the PDP, and also worked hard to ensure it was defeated by the APC in 2015, said that the insecurity, bad economy, nepotism and poor leadership that killed PDP were even worse under the APC administration.Plateau needs another platform that is based on honesty and trust. We need a new foundation which neither the PDP nor the APC can offer.We must show those two political parties that we are tired of their lies and deceit. It is not about me or my aspiration to be senator. It is about our children and their tomorrow, she said.Fanto regretted that the rural dwellers had continued to live without good water, saying that most villages in Plateau South had boreholes that were not functional.The current Plateau governor is from that zone, just like the water resources commissioner, but we do not have water. It is a big shame, but that is the unfortunate truth, she said.She also decried the lack of good roads in the area, saying that agricultural produce from the rural settlements hardly reach the right market because there was no access to the urban centres.The worst road in Plateau today is the Garkawa-Yelwa road. It is one of the most dangerous paths on the Plateau, yet we have a sitting governor from that area, she lamented.Fanto promised to make a huge difference if voted into the senate, and called on the voters to give their mandate to a woman because women, as mothers, rarely make promises that they will not keep.The candidate also decried the massive poverty among the rural areas, and promised to mobilise them to form cooperative societies through which they could access facilities offered by international organisations concerned with poverty reduction.Fanto also expressed deep regrets over the conduct of the Oct. 10, 2018 local government elections in Plateau.The local government elections were the worst thing that has ever happened to Plateau.People were asked to go and vote, but their votes were not even collated before the `results were announced. The funniest aspect is that the `results were announced without scores.In my own local government and ward, the agents are still holding to the results from the election venues. No one has asked them for them, she said.She advised INEC to do what is right in 2019, warning that the security agencies might not be able to contain the confusion that an unacceptable election could throw the nation into.As lawyers, we have advised INEC to be fair to all and avoid playing games. We have also advised INEC to ensure that peoples wishes were not subverted, she said.Fanto advised Nigerians to get their Permanent Voters Cards and use them to decide who should govern them, saying that it was not right to refuse to participate only to criticise leaders voted in by others.No fewer than 26 loyalists of Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun, on Monday, announced their defection from the All Progressives Congress to the Allied Peoples Movement.The defectors were the aggrieved members of the APC who claimed to have won the legislative primaries of the APC conducted by the state election committee, appointed by the National Working Committee held October 8, 2018, in the state.Addressing journalists on behalf of other members, the spokesperson of the group, Lamidi Olatunji said, they were declared winners by the committee Chairman, Col. Ali Ciroma,(retd), but, were refused the Independent National Electoral Commissions forms for the nomination of the party as candidates for the election till it closed December 2.Olatunji in his speech titled, Why we are leaving APC for APM, said after extensive and due consultations with our elders, members and stakeholders in the APC in Ogun State, we have come to the inevitable conclusion to seek the general mandate of our people in the 2019 elections on the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement.We wish to state that this is without prejudice to the progressive ideals which have endeared our candidature and our political group to the good people of Ogun StateHe, however, said, We regret that Mr. Presidents efforts were frustrated by the forces that are hell-bent in taking the South West back to the dark age of slavery where unelected kingpins direct the affairs of the people.We are committed to the second term of President Muhammadu Buhari and we are determined to deliver Ogun State to him in the Presidential election, come February 16, 2019, by the grace of God.We are going to work tirelessly for the election of Adekunle Akinlade who was overwhelmingly elected as the governorship candidate of the APC, but, denied the ticket by the same forces that hijacked our tickets.Speaking on the roles of governor Amosun on their defection, the groups spokesperson exonerated the governor, saying, they were old enough to take decisions without the input of their boss.He said, Governor Amosun is still in APC while we have moved to APM. Governor Amosun has nothing to do with our decision to defect to APM.As the campaigns for the 2019 general elections kick off, the governorship candidate for the All Progressive Congress, APC, in Akwa Ibom...

As the campaigns for the 2019 general elections kick off, the governorship candidate for the All Progressive Congress, APC, in Akwa Ibom state, Obong Nsima Ekere has called on the party faithfuls to eschew violence, thuggery and breakdown of law.





The APC governorship standard bearer stated this on Sunday during a solemn assembly to kick-start the partys governorship campaign held at his campaign ground at Four Lanes in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state capital.





Ekere said the party decided to acknowledge God first in its dealings believing that whatever what is committed into Gods hands would be successful.





He added that thuggery and violence can never be part of Gods agenda therefore, APC supporters should not allow themselves to be induced or used to perpetuate violence as they tour the 31 local government areas in the state for campaigns.





His words, APC family has come to seek the face of God as we commence the campaign for elections because we know that all powers belong to God.





We want peaceful and violent free election. We want the safety of God as we move in entire 31 LGAs in the state. There shall be no loss in all spheres in APC.





We are in a new dawn, as we go out for campaigns from the 1st to the last day of the campaign, make sure you maintain peace, respect the law and the rule of law and do not allow anybody to lead you to violence.





Ekere, however, condemned in strong terms the recent siege of the state Assembly Complex, saying that the act of invading the house with thugs by a sitting governor (Gov. Udom Emmanuel) was a rape to democracy and an abuse to separation of powers.





According to him, It was the first time, we have seen a sitting governor lead thugs to invade the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly to cause mayhem. Akwa Ibom people are saying no to this, it was totally unnecessary and uncalled for, it was against everything that democracy represents and separation of powers should be respected by everyone irrespective of how you are highly placed.





He urged the people to vote APC at all levels enmasse, promising to run a truthful and transparent government if elected in the 2019 general polls as governor of the state.





The State Party chairman, Mr. Ini Okopido thanked those that came out for the solemn assembly, especially those aspirants who failed at the primaries for not decamping to other parties but joined hands to make the party stronger in the state.





He said one of the foremost aspirants, Senator John James Akpanudoedehe has been appointed by the party as the chairman of reconciliation committee, stressing that, none of those who could not make it at the primaries from the house of assembly, house of representatives has left the party.





As we flag-off our campaigns in the next few days, God will surely see us through, the turn out of party members is a testimony of good thing to come to the state, as we go on, dont allow anyone to deceive you, he said.



From inter-city bullet trains to a China-backed mega solar power plant, high quality Made in China products and services are shining in Argentina, as Chinas cooperation with the Latin American country in trade, investment, and many other areas continues to strengthen.

In its capital city Buenos Aires, a Chinese made inter-city bullet train and a technical service system set up by China are serving millions of Argentine people every day with a 97% satisfaction rate.

In early 2013, CRRC Sifang, a unit of Chinas state-owned rolling stock firm CRRC Corp., won two contracts for the supply of 709 inter-city electric multiple units (EMUs) to renew Argentinas commuter system. It was Chinas biggest overseas order for inter-city EMUs, totaling nearly $1 billion.

All of the 709 carriages were delivered by 2015 and are already in service on the Sarmiento, Matt, and Roca lines of Buenos Aires, serving millions of Argentine people every day.

With its high quality products and services, CRRC Sifang has won its third train deal from the country in April this year, securing a $278 million deal for 200 railcars and related parts from Argentina.

In Argentinas northern Jujuy province, Chinese companies are helping to build the Cauchari #Photovoltaic (PV) Plant, the first PV plant in the country and an example of the two countries cooperation in new and clean energy.

Located in the heart of Argentinas high plains at more than 4,000 meters above sea level, Cauchari will boost the countrys clean energy supply and cut down harmful carbon dioxide emissions by no less than 325,000 tons.

Moreover, once the plant is in full swing, it is expected to generate some 1,500 direct and indirect local jobs.

At the construction site of Argentinas Variante Bridge, two D1500 large-sized tower cranes from Zoomlion, Chinas top construction machinery manufacturer, are ensuring the smooth construction of the bridge and are being used to help cut across to the new highway under construction, drawing great attention from local media, which dubbed them the amazing tower cranes.

The Variante Bridge, with a span of 320 meters, is an important part of the renovation project of Argentinas Ruta Provincial A073 (Highway 73). Once completed, it will provide faster travel on the new Highway 73 by directly connecting both sides of the Lago San Roque Lake, greatly reducing the driving distance and thus providing convenience to the economy, life, and transport in the northern part of Argentina.

Located some 200 kilometers downstream of the rich water resources originating from the Perito Moreno Glacier, a Chinese company is helping to build the worlds southernmost hydropower project, which is also the largest energy project in Argentina.

Jointly constructed by a consortium led by Energy Chinas China Gezhouba (Group) Co. Ltd. and the Argentine firms Electroingenieria S.A. and Hidrocuyo S.A., the Hydroelectric Exploitation Rio Santa Cruz Condor Cliff and La Barrancosa dam project is the largest overseas power project investment by a Chinese company, boasting a huge investment of around $5.3 billion.

Upon completion, it will be able to boost the nations power supply by 6.5% with an estimated annual electricity production of 4.95 billion kilowatts per hour, which will meet the energy demands of 1.5 million local households. The project will also help Argentina save about $1.1 billion in oil imports.

In addition to the potential power supply boost, the construction has also helped spur employment, with nearly 20,000 posts available during construction peak seasons. Some 80% of the employees are local residents and they enjoy good pay and vocational training.Hunters Association in the South West zone of the country has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to involve them in the fight against Boko Haram insurgents in the North East.The call was made by the National President of Soludero Hunters Association of Nigeria, Oba Nureni Ajijola Idris Anabi while speaking with Vanguard in an exclusive interview.The hunters who flaunted local charms said getting rid of the insurgents should not have been this difficult if they had been involved by the federal government.Oba Ajijola said the incessant attacks on innocent people and soldiers in the North should not be left for the army or security agents alone but should be a combination of the security agents and local hunters.Making particular reference to the recent attack by the insurgents which recorded heavy casualties on the side of the military, Ajijola maintained that the dimension the attack was assuming was too dangerous.While acknowledging the significant achievement the President Buhari led administration had made in pushing the insurgents far away, he said more achievements would be recorded if the hunters were empowered with vehicles and other logistics.He said, I want to tell you that we have charms that can demobilize armoured tanks and rifles of all kinds. Their weapons will just not work. When invited, we can also give the soldiers some protection that would not make them vulnerable to attacks.President Buhari has done tremendously well in the fight against Book Haram. Except for those who dont want to face facts, this administration has given hope to ordinary Nigerians. The insecurity issue has been tackled though much still needs to be done.The president should just try us and see if we can help. But, I assure you that Nigerians including the army will see how much we can do. There are still charms that can render weapons of war of the insurgents useless and we will be catching them(Book Haram) like chickens.We sympathise with the soldiers on the unnecessary attacks. The way we can contribute our quota is not only by sympathising with them. Thats why we are calling on the president to include us (south-west hunters) in the fight against the insurgents,, he noted.Ahead of the 2019 general elections, President Muhammadu Buhari, weekend, advised Nigerians against playing the politics of hate and v...





Ahead of the 2019 general elections, President Muhammadu Buhari, weekend, advised Nigerians against playing the politics of hate and violence.





President Buhari He spoke at the combined 29th and 30th convocation ceremonies of the Federal University of Technology, FUTA, in Akure.





Represented by the Director of Accreditation, National University Commission, NUC, Dr. Noel Saliu Biodun, the President urged Nigerians to eschew violence as the country prepares for the 2019 year elections.





He said: We must not ignite the fire of discord, religious bigotry and ethnicity which will be difficult to put out after the elections have been won and lost.





Peace and peaceful coexistence are certain essential for individual and national progress and we all must work to attain peace in our nation.





President Buhari urged tertiary institutions in the country to intensify efforts on the actualization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for economic growth and national development.





He said: In this age of ICT, we believe that our universities of technology are pivotal to the actualization of our national development agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations.





The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Fuwape, who listed the laurels won by the nationally and internationally, implored the graduands to be worthy ambassadors and give back to their Alma Mater.



A federal capital territory (FCT) high court, Apo, has granted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) leave to arraign Di...





former petroleum minister, and Olajide Omokore, a former chairman of Atlantic Energy Drilling company, on February 25. A federal capital territory (FCT) high court, Apo, has granted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) leave to arraign Diezani Alison-Madueke,former petroleum minister, and Olajide Omokore, a former chairman of Atlantic Energy Drilling company, on February 25.





Alison-Madueke and Omokore are to be arraigned on five counts bordering on conspiracy and illegal act of accepting and giving gratifications.





The trial judge, Valentine Ashi, granted the EFCC leave, after the prosecution counsel, Faruk Abdullahi, told the court that while investigations were ongoing, the former minister left the country and is currently in the UK.





Ashi also ordered the EFCC to put its house in order.





The suspects are to be arraigned for allegedly accepting and giving a gift of properties described as penthouse 22, Block B, Admiralty Estate, Ikoyi, and penthouse 21, building 5, block C, Banana Island, Lagos.





The EFCC said the alleged offence contravened the provisions of sections 26(1) and 17 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.





The prosecutor, Faruk Abdullahi, told the court that while investigations were ongoing, the former minister left the country and is currently in the United Kingdom.





He also said that upon invitation by the EFCC, Alison-Madueke refused to honour the invitation. He said there is a process in place to ensure she comes back to face trial.





The counsel to the second defendant, Tayo Adeniyo, told the court that his client was not served with the charges and his client was ready to clear his name.





On November 11, the EFCC confirmed that the process to bring back Alison-Madueke from the United Kingdom had begun.





Alison-Madueke, who is being investigated in the UK, had urged the federal government to have her repatriated to Nigeria to face corruption charges against her.



Leader of Free The Sheeple Movement, Daddy Freeze has invited the General Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor E.A Adebo...

Leader of Free The Sheeple Movement, Daddy Freeze has invited the General Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor E.A Adeboye to come sit over a beer with him to discus the scriptures for turning down his debate challenge.





Daddy Freeze made this call on Instagram after Pastor Adeboye turned down his debate challenge to discus about tithing in the church.





I have challenged their GO Enoch, to a debate on this several times to no avail. if he is doesnt want a debate, we can sit over a beer and discuss the scriptures.





He added that pastors hold guns to members heads to make them pay tithe. He described tithing as a false doctrine and that Christ NEVER collected tithes, neither did his disciples.





His Instagram post reads:



The fiery Catholic Priest and the Spiritual Director of the Adoration Catholic Prayer Ministry, Enugu Nigeria, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka ha...





The fiery Catholic Priest and the Spiritual Director of the Adoration Catholic Prayer Ministry, Enugu Nigeria, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka has predicted dooms day for President Muhammadu Buhari and the Presidential candidate of the PDP, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku, saying that none of them would win, without mentioning the eventual winner.





Fr. Mbaka Speaking during the 2018 harvest and bazaar celebration at his Adoration Ground in Emene, he said it was bad and scandalous before the Holy Spirit that after their prayers on Adoration altar made Buhari the President, he had refused to come and do a project for his ministry as a way of thanking God.





Mbaka further narrated how his ministrys prayers saved Buhari from deadly sickness in 2015 and said anybody with Buharis ears should warn him that no one cheats God, that after he thinks he is healthy, his sickness may come in another form. AngryMbaka further narrated how his ministrys prayers saved Buhari from deadly sickness in 2015 and said anybody with Buharis ears should warn him that no one cheats God, that after he thinks he is healthy, his sickness may come in another form.





Speaking on Alhaji Abubakar Atiku, Fr. Mbaka said that if he continued on the same trajectory, he and his running mate would end in shame.





Speaking in Igbo, Mbaka said: Ask Atiku if it is these steps that the cow will take to reach Umuahia. Mbaka concluded by requesting that Atiku should reach out to Igbo leaders like Hon. Ike Ekweremadu and also come personally to adoration ground and do a project for them.





He also berated Atikus running mate, Mr. Peter Obi. Though he said they had always supported Obi, he stated that Obi had not done anything for his church.





He said God would bless Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State and grant them second term for what they had done for him.





Fr. Mbaka curiously withheld Obis blessing and said he would only release it after Obi had done a project for them. Using Umahi as an example, Mbaka said: Umahi donated 1,000 bags of rice and 1,000 tubers of yam to us, but it meant nothing to me until he handed N10 million cheque to me and promised to build a project for the ministry. This is the type of gesture we require from Obi, he said.





While acknowledging the donation of N500,000 from Obi as his money for breaking of kolanut, he said  stinginess is not a virtue.











In his own remarks, the representative of President Buhari, Sen. Hope Uzodinma was warmly embraced the moment he announced N2 million for breaking of kolanut by Buhari and the announcement that Buhari will build a hospital in adoration ground for him. The elated Mbaka said that such was the type of gesture he needed from Buhari.

Uzodimna would become the next governor by the grace of God. Responding to Hope Uzodinmas donation of N20 million to him, he saidUzodimna would become the next governor by the grace of God.





On Imo State and Abia State, he said the case of the two states were beyond redemption and that the two states were possessed by the devil and needed to be exorcised.









However, Mbaka reiterated the unflinching support of his ministry for the re-election of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State for a second term in office in 2019.











The outspoken priest stressed that the ministry has 100 per cent support for Gburugburu (Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi) saying: It is unquestionable; Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria stands for him; he is a good man; a man of peace; a perfect genius; humble and ever patient.

The thanksgiving mass was also celebrated for Gov. Ugwuanyi, other candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Enugu State, members of the State Assembly, State Executive Council and PDP campaign organization, among others, to herald the commencement of campaigns for the 2019 general election as well as entrust the activities to the hands of God.





Extolling the leadership qualities of Gov. Ugwuanyi, Fr. Mbaka applauded him for uniting all political parties and ensuring equitable development across the three senatorial districts in the state, stating that Enugu State has not had a leader like him.



Former Governor of Plateau State, Jonah David Jang, on Monday, denied owning a N500 million property in Kaduna State allegedly traced to him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.Jang also said he would not honour an invitation extended to him by the anti-graft agency over the matter.It was learnt on Monday that the anti-graft agency had invited the Senator representing Plateau North to report to its Kano office on December 5th to answer questions following the discovery of a N500 million property in Kaduna State allegedly owned by the former Governor.In a statement in JOS on Monday, JANG said his decision to turn down the invitation was based on the fact that the matter was already before the court and that he had written to the commission about his decision over the matter.The statement signed by his Media Consultant, Mr Clinton GARUBA reads in part:The decision to turn down the invitation was an easy one because the Senator is under trial in Jos the Plateau State Capital having been charged to court by the same commission, and the matter is expected to commence definite hearing around the date of the invitation. To be sure, it is baffling how the EFCC expects the serving Senator to be in two places at the same time since he does not possess any psychic abilities.To be exact, the invitation is not unconnected with the story in the news alleging that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has traced a mansion worth N500million to Senator Jonah Jang. The property located at No. 8 and 9 Gobarau Road, Unguwan Rimi GRA, Kaduna State does not belong to Senator Jang, and this is not the first time the commission would investigate its ownership.The property formerly belonging to Northern Nigerian Development Company, Kaduna, was allocated to the Senator while he was the executive Governor of Plateau State but eventually lost interest and did not continue with the acquisition.EFCC has this information and it knows the actual owners of the said property. Unfortunately, but deliberately EFCC continues to harass the Senator in its usual media trials aimed at tarnishing his glowing name and reputation.To his numerous friends, supporters, and admirers of his transformational work in Plateau State, the Senator wishes to admonish them to be calm and steadfast no matter the odds, as the recent allegation is nothing new, but one of the endless attempts at dealing with him by the powers that be. The Senator is in high spirit, and fervently ready to face his accusers in court, and not in the pages of newspapers.The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has kicked off its 2019 presidential campaign at the Shehu Kangiwa Stadium, Sokoto, in the presence...





The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has kicked off its 2019 presidential campaign at the Shehu Kangiwa Stadium, Sokoto, in the presence of a mammoth crowd.





The campaign is being moderated by Dino Melaye, the senator representing Kogi west senatorial district, who was recently appointed as one of the eight spokespersons of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) campaign.





A number of former and current governors of northern states have addressed the crowd, asking them to vote out the current administration, led by President Muhammadu Buhari.





Taraba state; Ahmed Makarfi, former governor of Kaduna state. The governors include; Sule Lamido, former governor of Jigawa; Babangida Aliyu, former governor of Niger state; Rabiu Kwankwanso, former governor of Kano state; Aminu Tambuwal, governor of Sokoto state; Darius Ishaku, governor ofTaraba state; Ahmed Makarfi, former governor of Kaduna state.





Also present at the rally is former president Goodluck Jonathan; former vice-president Namadi Sambo; and Uche Secondus, the PDP national chairman; Senate President Bukola Saraki; Yakubu Dogara, speaker of the house of representatives.





While giving his address, Dogara said Nigeria is not safer today than it was in 2015, and that the economy has since deteriorated, asking the people to kick out the Buhari administration.



The lawmaker representing Lagos Central Senatorial District in the upper chamber of the National Assembly, Oluremi Tinubu, has stated ...





The lawmaker representing Lagos Central Senatorial District in the upper chamber of the National Assembly, Oluremi Tinubu, has stated her stand on the lingering issue of new minimum wage for Nigerian workers.





Tinubu said she is in support that workers should be taken care of, adding that President Muhammadu Buhari is also in support of the proposed N30,000 minimum wage.





Speaking with Vanguard at the weekend, Tinubu also said that Lagos State was always ready to pay any amount agreed by the President Buhari administration.





Asked about her position on the new minimum wage, Mrs. Tinubu said, My antecedents will tell you that I was in the trenches with my husband and I have been through a lot. I am with the people and relate well with the boys and girls on the streets.





These are the people that will show you their voters cards. I owe them much. I speak their language. At times when they come home to tell my husband and he says my wife doesnt talk like that, I just look!





Sometimes when I speak their language, they will say, why are you talking like us? Like yesterday. I will speak truth to them like a mum and they listen! I was there, I asked why are you all smoking weeds here?





The audacity with which crime is being perpetuated in our society is alarming. Am I scared? No! And that is the soul and heart of a comrade. Whatever I wear, they all trust me and believe that I am with their cause, I understand their pain and do the bit that I can for them.





On the minimum wage, I will say that I support people to be taken care of. Leadership is about sacrifice and I believe that the president too supports the minimum wage.





If all of the big executives can cut down on their allowances, we can make it. You know Lagos does not have such problem, they will pay and that was why I said even my Work Experience Programme, I am going to pay even more than the monthly minimum wage and this will come through my salaries and allowances.





If I am going to take like 100 youths, I will look for good corporate organizations that can employ them, they dont have to pay them, but they will just come in as interns and I could pay them about N40,000 for lunch and transport and to dress well to go.



The Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele, has said that Nigerias monthly food import bill fell from $665.4m in January 2015 to $160.4m as of October 2018.He said the reductions in food import were recorded on rice, fish, milk, sugar and wheat, adding that the policy would be maintained.He said, Noticeable declines were steadily recorded in our monthly food import bill from $665.4m in January 2015 to $160.4m as at October 2018; A cumulative fall of 75.9 per cent and an implied savings of over $21bn on food imports alone over that period.Most evident were the 97.3 per cent cumulative reduction in monthly rice import bills, 99.6 per cent in fish, 81.3 per cent in milk, 63.7 per cent in sugar, and 60.5 per cent in wheat.We are glad with the accomplishments recorded so far. Accordingly, this policy is expected to continue with vigour until the underlying imbalances within the Nigerian economy have been fully resolved.While speaking on development finance, he said that in continued recognition of its role as an agent of development and aimed at ensuring self-sufficiency to reduce Nigerias excessive dependence on imports, the CBN invigorated its development finance activities.We have maintained a particular focus on supporting farmers, entrepreneurs as well as small and medium scale businesses, through our various intervention programmes such as the Anchor Borrowers Program, Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending and the National Collateral Registry, he added.According to him, the CBN recently introduced the Real Sector Support fund; a facility meant to provide cheap funding at no more than nine per cent to new projects in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors; aimed at boosting output and creating jobs.In the agriculture sector, he added that the Anchor Borrower Programme, had ensured that Nigeria emerged from being a net importer of rice to becoming a major producer of rice, supplying key markets in neighbouring countries.As of October 2018, he said, a total number of 862,069 farmers cultivating about 835,239 hectares, across 16 different commodities, had so far benefited from the Anchor Borrowers programme, which had generated 2,502,675 jobs across the country.It is in light of the success of the Anchor Borrowers Program with regards to cultivation of rice and maize that the Monetary Policy Committee in its last meeting on the 21st of November, 2018 recommended that the Anchor Borrowers program be applied to other areas such as palm oil, tomatoes and fisheries to mention a few, Emefiele said.Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart Chief Femi Fani-Kayode has urged Nigerians to go on their knees, pray for Nigeria just as he asked who bewitched Nigeria?He lamented that he went to the top of the mountain (prayer ground) and what he saw was savage, frightful and heart-breaking.He said: if only people knew what may happen in the next few weeks and months they would not spend too much energy on elections but would instead get on their knees and pray for Nigeria.I have been to the top of the mountain and sadly what I saw was savage, frightful and heart-breaking.He also asked who bewitched Nigeria, saying: 115 soldiers slaughtered in Borno by Boko Haram last week yet no outrage from the people and Buhari could not care less.'50 policemen slaughtered in Zamfara by Malian terrorists a few days ago yet no outrage from the people and Buhari could not care less. Who bewitched Nigeria?'More people beyond China are gaining knowledge about Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and as TCM goes global some are also enjoying the benefits provided by the ancient medical treatment. In Spain, for example, Chinese acupuncture is a growing bridge that connects the country and China.

Spain was one of the first European countries to welcome TCM when in the 1980s the traditional medicine entered into some universities in countries like France and Germany.

In Spain, the University of Seville, University of Granada, and Complutense University of Madrid were the first three universities to embrace acupuncture, creating a three-year postgraduate program on TCM treatments. More than 10 Spanish universities now have acupuncture study programs.

As early as 1990, Yunnan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in southwest China launched a TCM school with local authorities of Catalonia to open postgraduate courses on acupuncture and TCM massage. The school also provides a 5-year undergraduate TCM program.

According to 2017 data from Madrid Acupuncture Medical Doctor Association, some 1,200 acupuncture specialists have gained medical practice in Spain and another 1,500 specialists have gained qualifications in China.

TCM, with its cheaper price and more convenient treatment options, is gradually gaining popularity in many regions of the world. The ancient Chinese medical treatment has reached to 183 countries and regions so far and the Chinese government has signed TCM cooperation deals with over 40 foreign state or regional governments and international organizations, according to the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xinhua reported.President Muhammadu Buhari, Monday in Katowice, Poland, said no country can confront climate change alone, urging UN-member countries to rededicate themselves to the task of rebuilding and restoring a healthy environment for future generations.In an address to the opening session of United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP24), President Buhari warned that the challenges of climate change, including rising temperatures, desertification, floods, low agricultural yields and drying up of water bodies, are enormous and evident to all.Citing the receding Lake Chad, the President noted that the effects of climate change are felt more on the vulnerable communities who lacked the capacity and technology to properly address such challenges.Obviously, no country can confront the phenomenon alone. In this regard, Nigeria believes in joint and cooperative efforts to tackle the problem.We urge that efforts to address the challenges of climate change be pursued within multilateral frameworks. Concerted efforts should be made to strengthen sub-regional and regional organizations, to serve as hubs for Climate Action and partnership, the Nigerian leader said at the International Conference Centre, Katowice.Speaking specifically on Lake Chad, the President reaffirmed that Nigeria remains committed to saving the Lake, which is a source of livelihood to 40 million people, from extinction.He said Nigeria would build on the success of an International Conference held earlier in February this year in Abuja to create additional awareness globally on the serious environmental and security challenges facing the Lake Chad region.The President told COP 24 Summit, attended by world leaders and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, that a consensus was reached at the Abuja Conference that an inter-basin water transfer from the Congo Basin remains the most sustainable option available to resuscitate and safeguard this precious water body that was once the 6th largest fresh water Lake in the world.On behalf of the Member Countries of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, the President thanked the Italian Government for donating 1.5 million Euros towards completion of the feasibility studies on the proposed inter-basin water transfer project.I once again call on the international community to support this worthy project, for the benefit of nearly 40 million people that depend on the Lake for their livelihood, and to guarantee future security of the region.I would like to reiterate Nigerias commitment to constructively supporting multilateral action aimed at addressing climate change.We must rededicate ourselves to the task of rebuilding and restoring the healthy environment we inherited for future generations, he said.President Buhari also used the occasion to highlight what Nigeria had done and is doing on climate change after the adoption of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change in 2015.We in Nigeria have commenced the implementation of our Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.In the next 15 years, we aim to achieve 20% emissions reduction below Business as Usual (BAU) and 45% emissions reduction with the support of our international partners by 2030.Our efforts include the review and introduction of new responsive Legislation/policies, strengthening institutional and manpower capacities, and encouraging gradual transition to low carbon economy.Nigeria has also recently ratified the Doha Amendment and will soon deposit the instrument for ratification, he said.The President pledged that Nigeria will continue to pursue industrialization and economic development, with sound environmental management and best practices.He added that Nigeria has unlocked the potential of its sovereign green bond to galvanize private capital to finance environmentally sustainable projects.In support of our NDC aspiration, we have embraced the issuance of green bond as an innovative and alternative source of funding projects that would reduce emissions and provide robust climate infrastructure like renewable energy, low carbon transport, water infrastructure and sustainable agriculture that our country needs, he said.Furthermore, the President told the summit Nigeria believes that technology can be a powerful solution for simultaneously addressing climate change and advancing development, stressing the need for developed countries to accelerate the finance for research and development, in addition to promoting access to climate-friendly technologies.In addition, there is the need to raise global climate action in the pre-2020 period, in terms of mitigation, adaptation and means of implementation.Boko Haram Killings: Buhari sends Defence Minister to Chad for emergency security meetingFor us in Nigeria, we are promoting technologies and practices such as sustainable land management, climate resilient agriculture, water efficiency and clean energy.We have also developed insurance-based initiatives to deal with loss and damage, as well as adaptation to internally acceptable practices, he said.The President commended the Government and People of Poland for hosting the 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in the beautiful city of Katowice.At the formal opening of COP24, President Andrzej Duda of Poland had told delegates that the conference is taking place on the exact location where a coal mine was once operated, adding that Katowice is now one of the greenest cities in Poland.Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State says he will remain in the All Progressives Congress to contest the senatorial election in 2019 wh...

Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State says he will remain in the All Progressives Congress to contest the senatorial election in 2019 while ensuring the re-election of President Muhammadu Buhari.He, however, said aggrieved party members who defected to the Allied Peoples Movement have his blessings.Amosun spoke on Monday in Abeokuta at a stakeholders meeting of the APC which was attended by his preferred governorship candidate and the candidate of APM, Adekunle Akinlade.The governor s declaration came as 26 aggrieved candidates of the APC loyal to the governor announced their defection to the APM.Amosun said he had tried his best to stop the defection of Akinlade and other aggrieved candidates.He vowed to use everything within his capacity to ensure the success of Akinlade and other aggrieved members in their new party.Amosun also said that he would not support the governorship candidate of the APC, Dapo Abiodun.When these people came, they told me they are leaving the APC, I said no but I couldnt stop them. In fact, Akinlade has my full support. I am not going to stop him. Everything I have, I will use to support him. Let them try whatever they want to try, we also have our strategies and I am not going to hide behind one finger.I remain in APC because thats what those people want, they want us to leave APC but they are joking. I will stay in APC to ensure that Buhari wins in Ogun State and to let them know that they cant subvert the will of the state.Every day, I will campaign for President Muhammdu Buhari. We will do everything possible to ensure Buhari wins massively in Ogun, but they should not miss it. I, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun, will not support anyone they are bringing, he said.Amosun, who vowed to resist rigging in the state, also pledged to check violence in the electoral process.(NAN)Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, says traditional rulers deserve legal and constitutional role as they play vital roles in ensuring peace, security, stability and justice in the country.Osinbajo who spoke during a courtesy visit at the palace of the Emir of Keffi, Nasarawa State, Dr Shehu Yamusu III, on Sunday urged traditional rulers to continue playing such roles.Laolu Akande, Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Publicity, said in a statement that Osinbajo was in the town as a special guest of honour at the Keffi Polo tournament.Osinbajo said that traditional rulers had earned their place as mediators in many aspects of national life and proved that they were important in the scheme of things.Regarding the matter of the constitutional role of traditional rulers, l happened to take the view also that there should be a much more defined role, whether that law is constitutional or merely by legislation.But l believe that traditional rulership in our country have earned their place as arbiters in so many different ways, in security and justice at the local level and even politically.I think it is an issue we ought to deliberate more upon and reach some kind of acceptable conclusion.And l feel very strongly that there should be a role, legal and constitutional role, for traditional rulers when it comes to that.I think it is a very good idea and l believe that for the peace and security of our country; the respect and regards for traditional institutions must continue, and that has accounted for the stability of our polity for so many years, he said.The vice president thanked the Emir for the warm reception and assured him of Federal Governments support in ensuring stability in the state.Osinbajo said that Abuja and Keffi had maintained good neighbourliness by ensuring peace and security at all times.He assured the traditional ruler of governments willingness to address all the issues he raised.Later at the polo game at the Keffi Polo Ranch, the vice president presented the Presidents Cup to the winners of the Keffi Polo Ranch Open Tournament, Imani club.The theme of the tournament was In support of Education.Osinbajo was accompanied to the Emir of Keffis palace by the Governor of Nasarawa State, Umar Tanko Al- Makura and Deputy Governor of Kano State, Dr Nasiru Yusuf Guwuna.Others were Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi and spokesperson of Buhari Campaign Organisation, Festus Keyamo.Former governor of Anambra State, now vice presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Mr Peter Obi, has called on hi...





Former governor of Anambra State, now vice presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Mr Peter Obi, has called on his supporters not to attack Father Ejike Mbaka over prophesies that the Atiku election project would fail.





Obi, who spoke through his media aide, Val Obienyem, rather called on his supporters to pray for Mbaka as that was what was expected of them.





Reverend Father Mbaka had on Sunday at his adoration ground, Enugu, warned that the Atiku campaign project may fail if he failed to come to Enugu to confer with him.





In a video of the programme, which is widely circulating on the internet, Mbaka was seen urging Obi to make donation to the church, while warning him that God hates stingy people.





Obi, had while speaking at the bazaar and thanksgiving ceremony, promised to confer privately with the priest on what he would donate, but Mbaka insisted that it was deceit for Obi to come to his church and fail to part with any money.





Speaking in Igbo, the priest kept urging the vice presidential candidate, if his principal, Atiku Abubakar did not give him anything to bring to the church.





Supporters of Peter Obi had been infuriated by the priests comments, leading to torrent of attacks on him on social media.





But Obienyem, while speaking for Obi, said, I have personally reached out to many people restraining them from attacking Fr. Ejike Mbaka because of their love for Peter Obi.





If you truly respect Obi, please and please, do not attack Fr. Mbaka. In the first instance, His Excellency does not interpret the comments of Fr. Mbaka the way several observers do. While one may disagree with him, we should always acknowledge that he speaks and acts from the higher perspective of wisdom.





His Excellency believes that every situation, however unpleasant, has positive lessons for us. Please let us leave Fr. Mbaka alone, our duty to him is prayers for God to lead him aright.





Obi regretted that the spat at the adoration ground in Enugu cost his younger brother, who is also a Catholic priest, some engagements both in Onitsha and Lagos, the same day.



Senator Shehu Sani has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to name those who asked Yemi Osinbajo to name them as vice president when he (Buhari) was sick.Sani, who was reacting to a claim by President Buhari that some people thought he was dead during his sickness in 2017, said he is afraid if the culprits can't be named now then Nigerians have to wait several years to find out the culprits through the president's memoir.The senator, representing Kaduna central senatorial district, made this call on his Twitter page on Monday, December 3.Sani said" "The president and the vice should have the courage to reveal the name of that very person who was desperate to be vice president, When the president went on health Vacation in the UK. Else, Nigerians will have to wait for memoirs in years to come, when the nation had moved on."See his tweet below:Earlier, Legit.ng reported that President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday, December 2, finally reacted to insinuations that he may have been cloned and that he is not the actual person in Aso Rock as the nations leader.Buhari, who is in Poland for an official engagement, said that he is alive and would soon celebrate his 76th birthday.NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We keep evolving to serve our readers better.President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday said those who felt he had died during his medical vacation in the UK in 2017, asked Vice-Preside...





President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday said those who felt he had died during his medical vacation in the UK in 2017, asked Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo to make them his deputy.





Osinbajo took over in acting capacity when the president was away.





Speaking on Sunday in Krakow, Poland, during an interactive session with the Nigerian community in the country, he said his deputy, Buhari said Osinbajo received a lot of embarrassment.





The president said he and Osinbajo discussed the issue when the acting president at the time visited him in London.





One of the questions that came up today in my meeting with Nigerians in Poland was on the issue of whether Ive been cloned or not, he said.





The ignorant rumours are not surprising. When I was away on medical vacation last year, a lot of people hoped I was dead.





Poor Professor Yemi Osinbajo, even he had to deal with the rumours. Some people reached out to him to consider them to be his vice-president because they assumed I was dead. That embarrassed him a lot; we discussed it when he visited me while I was convalescing.



The National Assembly has summoned the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Stuart Symington, over the alleged high rate of visa denial of Nigerians.The invitation was said to be at the instance of an activist, Kayode Bello, who petitioned the House over the matter.The PUNCH had done an investigation into how many Nigerian students seeking to study in US schools were denied visas despite spending a lot of money on different fees.Some of the fees, our correspondent learnt, were application fees, evaluation fees, courier fees, service fees, visa fees, school fees.The fees were said to be non-refundable.While some of the students claimed that they were denied visas because they were not married, others said they were denied because only one of their parents was their sponsor.A parent claimed that his daughters interview was cut short because she asked the interviewer to speak up.Our correspondent was further told that the embassy usually issued preprinted blue papers to those it rejected without giving a specific reason for the decision.More than three weeks after enquiries were sent to the embassy, no response had been got by The PUNCH.A former ambassador to the US, John Campbell had, however, told our correspondent that visas were given by consular officers on a case by case basis, adding that the refusal of many people to return home after finishing their programmes made the process difficult.The activist, Bello, petitioned the National Assembly through a member representing the Ede and Ejigbo Federal Constituency, Prof. Mojeed Alabi, after suffering a similar fate of denial.The summon, titled, Indiscriminate denial of United States of America visa and illegal increment of exchange rate of visa fee by the American embassy was signed by the House Committee Chairman on Public Petitions, Uzo Azubuike.The two-page document, dated November 27, 2018, and a copy of which was received by our correspondent, said the hearing would hold on Tuesday, December 4 at 2pm at the House of Representatives Room 429.The House asked the ambassador to present 20 copies of his defence.The Clerk of the House, Mr Omale Adoyi, confirmed the development to our correspondent on Monday.He, however, said the US embassy rejected the summon.But we will go on with the hearing and may have to adjourn if they fail to show up, he added.The Academic Staff Union of Universities said on Sunday that its members were not losing any sleep over the Federal Governments decision to enforce no-work-no-pay policy against the striking lecturers, noting that the union would be rather surprised if such directive did not come.The ASUU President, Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi, stated this in an interview with our correspondent, noting that the next meeting between the union leaders and the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, and other government officials had been scheduled for Tuesday.Ogunyemi said lecturers were not concerned about bread and butter but we are making sacrifices for the future of our children and of our childrens children.The Federal Government had on Friday directed vice-chancellors of public universities and inter-varsity centres to enforce the no-work-no-pay rule against the lecturers who are on strike.The directive had been communicated to the universities VCs in a memo by the National Universities Commission.In the memo, reportedly signed by the Director, Research, Information and Technology, Dr Ramon Yusuf, the government stated that payment of salaries from any other sources would be viewed as a violation of extant rules and governments directive.But the ASUU President, Ogunyemi, said on Sunday that the union was not intimidated by the directive, noting that their negotiations with the government usually followed such pattern of threats.Ogunyemi said, It is not a big issue really. We are not losing sleep over such a directive. This has been a recurring threat since the military era. We are making sacrifices for our children and for our childrens children. This struggle, for us, is not about bread and butter. If they want to sack us, we encourage them to go ahead and they will have the consequences.The meeting last week Thursday was not too significant, but for the first time, the government was able to tell us what it will put on the table. We have another meeting on Tuesday and we are looking forward to it.We saw the memo on no-work-no-pay as something that was bound to come. In fact, we would have been surprised if it didnt come. The government has always been predictable in their handling of negotiations with us. But we are not deterred; we are fighting for quality education and for the interests of our children.The ASUU president said that it also got to his notice that the Federal Government had withdrawn the memo, even though the NUC had yet to confirm the withdrawal.Meanwhile, human rights lawyer, Mr Femi Falana (SAN), on Sunday described as illegal the circular issued by the Federal Government threatening to enforce no-work-no-pay policy against the striking members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities.Falana asked the government to withdraw the illegal circular which he said was in violation of various judgments of the Supreme Court.He said the Federal Government was not properly advised.Otherwise, it would have realised that even under the defunct military junta the application of no-work-no-pay rule, threat to eject lecturers living in official quarters, promulgation of a decree which made strike in schools a treasonable offence and the proscription of ASUU did not collapse any of the strikes called by ASUU, the senior lawyer added.Falana said going by the decision of the apex court in Olufeagba & Ors v Abdul-Raheem in 2010, the vice-chancellors lacked the power to seize the salaries of the striking university teachers as directed by the Federal Government.He said, The implication of the judgment is that a university lecturer whose employment enjoys statutory flavour cannot be disciplined or sanctioned without being afforded the right of fair hearing by the governing council.With respect to the current ASUU strike, no university governing council has accused any lecturer of misconduct to warrant the seizure of salaries and allowances.Therefore, the Federal Government, acting through the National Universities Commission, lacks the vires to direct vice-chancellors to seize the salaries and allowances of striking lecturers.He added, That is a decision which can only be taken by the Governing Council of each university after due process must have been observed. If the Federal Government disagrees with our position, it is at liberty to pray the National Industrial Court for an interpretation of the application of the no-work-no-pay rule to lecturers for participating in the ASUU strike.He argued that the latest strike embarked upon by ASUU has complied with the provisions of Section 31 (6) of the Trade Disputes (Amendment) Act, 2005.The military has said it has yet to receive the $1bn promised by the Federal Government to fight insurgency in the North-East.President Muhammadu Buhari in December 2017 promised to take the money from the Excess Crude Account, a decision which became a subject of controversy and debate in the country.Speaking on a news programme on the Nigerian Television Authority, the Director, Army Public Relations, Brig. Gen. Sani Usman, said the defence ministry had been working towards receiving the money from the government.Usman said, People should understand also that this is a democratic system in which the procurement, and of course, the funding of defence-related issues take such a long time. Take for instance the issue of the $1bn approved recently by Mr President, up till now the process is ongoing.The Ministry of Defence is still pursuing the matter to the point that when it is done, the armed forces will definitely get more equipment, more arms and ammunition.To the best of our abilities, all the necessary equipment, ammunition and arms are being given. It is so sad and unfortunate that our troops came under enemy attacks on November 18, and we suffered causalities as we mentioned. Sadly, we lost 23 soldiers, and of course, some of them sustained injuries.In respect of the effort, we are trying as much as possible to make sure that first and foremost we give timely and accurate information on all our activities and operations, bearing national security concern.The Ministry of Defence said it could not confirm the receipt of the money.The Director of Press at the ministry, Charles Nwodo, told our correspondent on Friday, I have to check with the Department of Finance if the money has come. But I dont have any information about such funds yet. Unfortunately, the man at the department in charge is not around yet.With less than three months to the 2019 polls, indications have emerged that President Muhammadu Buhari may still not append his signature to the Electoral Bill, which the National Assembly has since transmitted to him for assent.It was learned last night that the President was uncomfortable with some aspects of the law, which he had severally rejected and returned to the NASS and which the lawmakers had also bent backwards many times to adjust to meet the remit of the President for assent.It was gathered that the Presidency was finding it difficult to openly reject the bill and return it to the NASS, knowing that with the mass of opposition in the legislature against him, the lawmakers would easily veto him.However, it was understood that some other political parties were aware of the dilemma of the President and had already started complaining against the bill, with a view to stopping the use of the law for next years elections.The political parties opposed to the signing into law of the Electoral Act, have come under the aegis of Forum of Presidential Candidates to raise alarm over some defects in the bill and threaten to sue President Buhari if he signs it into law.Already, the presidential candidate of Advanced Peoples Democratic Alliance, APDA, Alhaji Shitu Mohammed Kabir, who is the Chairman of Forum of Presidential Candidates, has raised alarm on deliberate hurdles capable of derailing the 2019 general elections.Kabirs grouse is informed by what he termed the stumbling blocks against a free and fair election next year.Specifically, he said the new Act, which stipulates electronic verification of voters and transmission of results would deliberately disenfranchise many voters, especially in the rural and remote areas of the country, due to obvious constraints of power supply and internet connectivity.Kabir said: We dont see INEC responding fast enough in cases where their devices malfunction. The constraints and impediments of time and resources in difficult terrains will deliberately deny many local communities the opportunity to vote.He spoke shortly after the 40 presidential candidates under the group rose from a meeting at the weekend.The Forum threatened to drag President Muhammadu Buhari and INEC to court to abort assent to the amended bill.Kabir argued that the time was rather too close to the election to enable INEC train its staff, especially its ad hoc staff, on how to handle the electronic devices, adding that we shouldnt give INEC any excuse to postpone the elections.The APDA presidential candidate argued that those pushing Buhari to assent to the new bill might unwittingly derail the electoral calendar if the electoral umpire was forced to adjust its programme to accommodate the personnel, budget and other logistics under the guise of abiding by the provisions of the new law.The peace-loving people of China and Argentina have rendered each other mutual understanding and support, the geographical distance between us notwithstanding. Chinese President Xi Jinping wrote in a signed article published on Argentine newspaper Clarin several days ago, in which he also mentioned Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges.

The literary legend Jorge Luis Borges used Chinese allusions such as the butterfly dream of the philosopher Chuang Tzu and the Great Wall in his works, including The Paint Cane. And he indeed had a cherished Chinese paint cane in his possession. read Xis article.

Traversing the geographical distance between the two countries, Borges and his works left shared memory for both peoples, and constituted the bond of friendship drawing them closer.

Something, however, binds us. It is not impossible that someone has premeditated this link. It is not impossible that the universe needs this link. he wrote in the poem The Paint Cane.

Over the 40-plus years, I collected more than 25,000 books, manuscripts and letters related to Borges for studies, and found that he had been crazy for the distant Chinese culture for a long time.

I visited China in 2013 and 2017. To my surprise, I saw in a Chinese bookstore that a lot of Borges works were translated into Chinese. A friend told me that Borges is the Latin American writer who has the most translation works in China.

The two trips to China also allowed me to see for myself the progress made by this great country in various fields, especially in the cultural sector of my interest.

Todays China is active in book publication and literary communication. The two trips made me aware more about the importance of enhancing our friendship by strengthening cultural connections, to which end we should never stint our efforts.

Its encouraging for us that President Xi quoted Borges and his works in the signed article. Both Argentina and China have splendid culture. Argentina has Borges, Julio Cortazar and many other preeminent writers, while a lot of philosophers and poets also emerged in China over its centuries-long history course.

They and their works build a bridge for bilateral people-to-people and cultural exchanges, enabling the two peoples to deepen understanding and appreciate the beauties of different cultures.

We are eager to an intensified people-to-people and cultural exchanges between Argentina and China, and have already proposed to list Beijing as a guest city of the Buenos Aires International Book Fair in 2021. We hope more Chinese writers can come to Argentina to share the Chinese stories with Argentine readers.

(By Alejandro Vaccaro, the head of the Argentine Society of Writers and author of a Spanish-edition biography for Jorge Luis Borges)RIO DE JANEIRO, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- Brazil-China relations will continue to advance after Jair Bolsonaro takes office as Brazil's new president on Jan. 1, a Brazilian expert told Xinhua.

Though Bolsonaro made some controversial statements during the presidential campaign, his actions during the presidency are likely to be more prudent, said Professor Severino Cabral, chairman of the Brazilian Institute for China and Asia Pacific Studies.

"The controversies before and after the election are different. It is one thing to make a controversial statement in the campaign to take a stance and win votes; it is another thing entirely to actually sit in the presidential chair and rule," Cabral said.

The professor believes that Brazil's relations with China are solid and that no government would wish to upset them.

"Brazil has great relations with both China and the United States, and that cannot change. It is structural. No Brazilian government would confront either China or the U.S., it would not be beneficial for the country," he added.

China is Brazil's largest trade partner and Brazil is China's major partner in Latin America. Cabral said that as the Brazil-China relationship is important for both sides, Bolsonaro's administration will not jeopardize it.

"If to us the relationship with China is vital, because of our trade balance, for China it is also important to keep a good relationship with Brazil," Cabral said. "If the relations are important to both sides, things must be carried on with prudence."

NATIONALIST DIRECTIONS

Cabral recalled that Bolsonaro's campaign motto "Brazil Above All" is likely to set the tone for his administration's foreign relations, with a centralized and nationalist direction.

"As (U.S. President Donald) Trump said 'America First,' Bolsonaro sets the tone with 'Brazil Above All.' It gives a direction to his foreign policy," he said. "It shows a need to take a proactive stance in the relations with all countries, to privilege Brazil's interests in all directions."

However, thinking of Brazil's interests first does not mean the China-Brazil relations will suffer a blow, he said. An evidence of the continued closeness between the two countries is the fact that the first diplomat to meet with the president-elect, just after the election, was China's Ambassador to Brazil Li Jinzhang.

"Just after the election, the president-elect's first diplomatic act was to meet with the Chinese ambassador. That showed that campaign rhetoric was one thing and the position of a president-elect was another," Cabral said.

About the approximation with the United States and the European Union (EU), which has been in effect in the current administration and is likely to be maintained by the Bolsonaro government, Cabral stressed that tightening relations with the Western powers does not mean the relations with China or with blocs like BRICS and Mercosur will be left unattended.

Bolsonaro will have many internal challenges to deal with, from the problematic finances to industrial restructuring, and collaboration with China can be a great assistance to the handling of these challenges.

"Brazil needs to integrate its region and create new development areas in the country ... China is a country of continental dimensions, just like Brazil, and also faces the challenge of spreading its economic development through the entire country," he stressed.

"It is more or less like our own challenge, to elevate the standards of life and development over the next decades," he said.

Brazil could build new, innovative ties not only with China, but also with its neighbors, facing the challenges of globalization and domestic development, Cabral said.

There are competent people in the new administration, such as those from the Foreign Ministry and trade organizations, who are very experienced about relations with China and can help advise the president on this front, he noted.

In addition, Vice President-elect General Hamilton Mourao has showed more pragmatic views in a recently published interview. He said the Bolsonaro government does not intend to cause any conflicts with China, while stressing the importance of the Asian country and its weight on Brazil's foreign trade.

Cabral advised Brazil's government to be inspired by China and build long-term plans, like the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, to develop and advance the country.

"Brazil must have a vision for its future and that does not represent a conflict with China's interests," he said.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.Gan Lin, a postdoctoral graduate from Chinas prestigious Tsinghua University, recently won the IEEE-CS TCHPC Award for Excellence for Early Career Researchers in High Performance Computing for his outstanding achievements in supercomputing, making him the first Chinese recipient of such an award, China Youth Daily reported on Nov. 30.

Gan was recommended to further his masters degree at Tsinghua University, and in 2011 started his journey in supercomputing.

During his Ph.D. studies, Gan joined the research and development team for "Sunway Taihu Light," going on to receive the 2016 Gordon Bell Award in High-Performance Computing, a top award in the supercomputing field.

I've always been lucky, said Gan Lin, after he received the IEEE award.

Today, Gan works at the National Supercomputing Center in Wuxi, mainly focusing on how to apply supercomputer technology in earthquake prevention and disaster reduction, and says he wants to contribute to Chinas chip development.Israeli PM to meet U.S. Secretary of State Pompeo in Brussels

JERUSALEM, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that he will meet U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels on Monday evening to discuss regional issues.

A statement issued by the Israeli Prime Minister's Office said Netanyahu will depart to Belgium later in the day, adding that the meeting was set last week.

The statement said that the prime minister and the secretary of state will discuss "regional developments," and that Netanyahu will be accompanied by the head of Israel's Mossad national intelligence agency, the head of the National Security Council, and the government's Military Secretary.

Pompeo visited Israel last April, shortly after his appointment.

In a meeting between him and Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Pompeo referred to U.S. President Donald Trump's unpublished plan for Israeli-Palestinian conflict, saying that the United States is committed to a lasting peace.

They also discussed the ongoing war in Syria and Israel's demand that Iran will not establish permanent military bases in Israel's northern neighbor.

Israeli media widely reported that these issues are expected to be discussed in their meeting today.CHANGSHA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- A senior Communist Party of China (CPC) official has called for more efforts to fight criminal gangs and improve the work of political and legal organs at the primary level.

Guo Shengkun, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the Commission for the Political and Legal Affairs of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks during a two-day inspection in central China's Hunan Province, which concluded Sunday.

Guo called for thorough research on the new trends of gang crime, noting that the crackdown should target criminal activities both online and offline and the capability to investigate gang crime should be enhanced.

He asked for an in-depth study of relevant laws and policies, more detailed standards for law enforcement and closer cooperation between the police and other departments.

During the inspection, Guo also urged more efforts to solve conflicts and disputes between people at the primary level and provide more convenient services for them.

Judicial power should be put under stricter supervision to ensure the administration of justice is impartial, he added.On August 11, 2020, the Hochiminh Stock Exchange issued Announcement No.1397/TB-SGDHCM about the record date of An Gia Real Estate Investment and Development Corporation as follows:

- Ex-right date: August 27, 2020

- Record date: August 28, 2020

1) Reason & Purpose: to pay stock dividend for 2019.

2) Content:

- Exercise ratio: 10% (shareholder who owns 100shares will receive 01 new share.)

- Expected issue volume: 7,492,525 shares

- Plan to deal with fractional shares: The distributed shares will not be rounded down to dozen, the fractional shares due to rounding down will be cancelled.

- For example: at the record date, shareholder A owned 13 shares. With 10% performing ratio, the shareholder A will receive: 13 *10/100 =1.3 shares. According to rounding policy, the shareholder A receives 01 new share and fractional shares of 0.3 will be cancelled.

- Place to receive subscription:

+ Shareholders whose shares have been deposited: at the securities firms where shares have been deposited.

+ Shareholders whose shares have not been deposited: at An Gia Real Estate Investment and Development Corporation (Address: 30 Nguyen Thi Dieu, ward 6, district 3, Hochiminh).The Board resolution No.38 dated August 11, 2020, the BOD of Imexpharm Corporation (IMP) approved the following issues:

1) Approving the business result in first six months of 2020:

- Total revenue & other: 597.3 billion dongs

- Net revenue: 592.4 billion dongs

- Profit before tax: 110.7 billion dongs

- Profit after tax: 88.4 billion dongs.

2) Approving the business plan in last six months of 2020:

No. Content 2020 (F) % plan in 2020 2019 % Growth 1 Total revenue & other 1,575.0 90.0% 1,420.7 10.9% 2 Profit before tax and to distribute Science & Technology Development Fund 260.0 222.4 16.9% 3 Profit before tax 260.0 100% 202.4 28.5%

3) Approving the establishment of Functional Food Factory and Resting Center at No.04 Street 30/4, ward 1, Cao Lanh City, Dong Thap Province.Nicola Andreatta was born in Italy in 1973, and found himself immersed in the watchmaking world from an early age through his father, who was head of Timeo SA, a well-known watchmaking outsourcing company.

Nicola Andreatta has spent the entirety of his professional career in watchmaking. In 1997 he graduated from the Catholic University of Milan with a qualification in Business Administration and Economics, and began his career in Asia, where he worked for a number of luxury watch brands in design and merchandising. On his return to Europe in 2001 he consulted for several prestigious watch brands.

In 2003 Nicola Andreatta took over the management of Timeo SA and created his own watch brand, N.O.A. Watches, acting as President and CEO until 2013, when he was appointed Vice President and General Manager of Tiffany & Co. Swiss Watches SAGL. Under Nicola Andreattas direction, Tiffany & Co. has developed and marketed several new watch collections, including the iconic Tiffany CT60.

On December 1st, 2018, Nicola Andreatta takes over the management of Roger Dubuis as CEO.Egyptian prosecutors have rejected a request made by Italian prosecutors during a Wednesday meeting that a number of Egyptian national security agents be named as suspects in the murder of Italian student Giulio Regeni in 2016.

In exclusive statements to MENA news agency, an Egyptian judicial source has said that Italy had made a similar request in December 2017, which Egyptian prosecutors had also turned down.

The source said that Egyptian prosecutors had refused the request in 2017 because the Egyptian legal system does not include the existence of a "suspect registry," and that there was not enough evidence to name the agents as suspects in the case.

The source added that the Italian prosecution considers the policemen suspects because they conducted surveillance on Regeni, which the source said falls under their normal work as security agents.

Egyptian and Italian authorities have been cooperating in the ongoing investigation into the murder of the Italian student, who was conducting research on independent trade unions when he went missing on the fifth anniversary of Egypts 2011 Revolution, before he was found dead 10 days later bearing signs of torture.

During the Wednesday meeting, Egyptian prosecutors asked that Italy investigate Regeni's entry into Egypt with a tourist visa, even though he was in the country to conduct academic research, which requires a student visa.

Following Wednesday's meeting, Italian News Agency ANSA said that Italian prosecutor Sergio Colaiocco will officially name the agents as suspects early next week.

On Friday, Roberto Fico, speaker of the Italian parliament, announced that Italy's parliament decided to suspend parliamentary relations with Egypt until the ongoing investigation into Regeni's death reaches a conclusive result.

Egypt's parliament released a statement later on Friday expressing regret over the statements by the Italian parliament speaker, which it described as "premature" and "unilateral."

Regeni's killing led to a brief diplomatic rift in 2016, when Italy's ambassador to Cairo was recalled in protest of Egypt's handling of the case. The ambassador returned in September 2017.

Egypt has repeatedly rejected suggestions that members of its security forces are behind the killing, and President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi has promised to bring the killers to justice.

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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.Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi on Monday inaugurated Egypt's first defence expo, EDEX 2018, which will see the participation of 373 major defence companies from 41 countries.

EDEX 2018 will run from 3 to 5 December and is expected to draw at least 10,000 visitors to Egypt's International Exhibition Centre in New Cairo.

The opening ceremony was attended by the defence ministers of the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Sudan, France, Greece, Cyprus South Sudan, Cameroon, South Korea, and Somalia.

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Defence Minister Mohamed Zaki and a number of other ministers were also among the attendees.

Seven chiefs of staff and as many military production ministers are also attending the exhibition, MENA reported.

Organised by Egypt's armed forces under the auspices of President El-Sisi, the fair will showcase the latest military and security technology, equipment and systems.

The event is in cooperation with the UK's Clarion Events, which organises defence and security exhibitions.

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AF&PA Statement on Signing of Trilateral Trade Agreement Donna Harman Nov. 29, 2018 - American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Donna Harman issued the following statement regarding the signing of the trilateral trade agreement between the United States, Mexico and Canada: AF&PA welcomes the signing of the trilateral trade agreement as a step in the right direction toward strengthening access for our industry's products in the North American market. We are one the largest manufacturing sectors in the U.S. with exports to Canada and Mexico of $9.6 billion (45 percent of global exports), supporting 52,000 direct and many more indirect American jobs. We look forward to working with Congress to ensure the agreement preserves and improves the market access and investor protections such as investor state dispute settlement procedures that have long benefitted our industry and its workers. The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance a sustainable U.S. pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products manufacturing industry through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. AF&PA member companies make products essential for everyday life from renewable and recyclable resources and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry's sustainability initiative  Better Practices, Better Planet 2020 . The forest products industry accounts for approximately four percent of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures approximately $300 billion in products annually, and employs nearly 950,000 men and women. The industry meets a payroll of approximately $55 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 45 states. Visit AF&PA online at www.afandpa.org or follow us on Twitter @ForestandPaper . SOURCE: AF&PAAccording to Instagram, Blake Saint David is a "Nonbinary Internet Superstar," who is out to make an unforgettable impression.

At 18, the Chicago native uses their love of filmmaking and music to inspire a current and future generation of queer youth searching for their place in the world. In the song "My Name," premiering exclusively with PAPER, Saint David chronicles their loneliness, borne from growing up fast and feeling misunderstood.

On a delirious and melancholy arrangement co-produced by Ghost Boy Sora, Saint David addresses it all in their lyrics, from needing a therapist to get through day-to-day trials to seeking solace in a significant other, or occasionally, weed. "Only this lonely road, don't know where to go," they sing, as twinkling, synths and trip-hop beats swirl around them. One can't help but feel as if Saint David is drowning in the soundscapes inspired by their isolation, a sonic structure not totally unlike the work of PC Music artists like SOPHIE and Hannah Diamond.

"It's funny, I made songs about being alone to cope with the idea of being alone... it's very counterintuitive," Saint David tells PAPER.

Our bet, though, is that soon enough, they will find themselves with a captive (and growing) audience. Admittedly having only been "taking music seriously for about a year," Saint David says that "My Name" is part two in a "12-month series," leading up to the release of what will be their full-length debut, a project entitled Cairo, Illinois  the album art for the song and project are both below.

Listen to the premiere of "My Name" below, and come to understand just how Saint David will make themselves visible, for the good of all who see them.

Images courtesy of Xander Owls and Jackson Fabiyi

After the horrific use of tear gas at the Mexican border in the United States, French police have decided to deploy the same tactic on Paris protesters at Champs-Elysees who were rallying against gas tax hikes.

The authorities bombed the famed iconic avenue as the hundreds of the so-called "Yellow Jackets," who were against President Emmanuel Macron's economic reforms, attempted to force their way through official lines. And while there were some peaceful protesters, NBC reports that Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said on Twitter that "1,500 others outside the perimeter were causing more serious disruptions." The demonstrators "set fires in the soaked streets and formed human barricades against officers."

Paris police has declared that at least 20 people were injured, "including six officers, and more than 120 people were arrested." Still, it seems like there are a lot of people in France who support the Yellow Jackets. According to a poll published by Le Figaro, eight in ten people support the uprising.

The whole violent turn of events, and the fear of more violent protests and dissent, has led to France's government being on the brink of declaring a state of emergency. Still, the question remains as to whether the dangerous use of tear gas was necessary to pacify protesters.Iraq Continues To Face Hurdles Due To Its Relations With Iran

12/03/18

Source: Radio Farda

Amid U.S. sanctions on Iran, Iraq is currently facing a challenge in addressing energy needs and supply of other vital goods, as its chief supplier of natural resources and a key trading partner grapples with its own isolation.





Following the imposition of U.S. sanctions on Iran, particularly on oil and gas exports, Iraq was given 45 days by the U.S. to stop importing Iranian gas. Yet this deadline was clearly not enough, as the Iraqi government has called for an extension, citing difficulties with replacing Iranian supplies.

As a result of the 2003 invasion of Iraq, as well as ongoing instability, Iraq depends on Iranian gas as a source of electricity. With some estimates claiming that up to 39 million Iraqis depend on Iran's gas, it is clear that Iraq faces an immensely difficult challenge in satisfying the increasing demand for electricity.

This issue becomes even more pressing due to frequent power cuts, which have resulted in widespread protests last summer.



Iran-Iraq gas pipeline



With that in mind, it is clear that Iraq must quickly address its economic problems. Iraq's central government has managed to land a key deal with the Kurdish forces in North Iraq, allowing it to resume oil exports from Kirkuk, one of the centers of oil production in Iraq. While this deal allows the Iraqi government to export oil through the pipeline in Kurdish territories to Turkey and earn more money, the issue for Baghdad has been how to use its already big oil income to build a viable economy.

Iraqi businesses currently have an immense opportunity in meeting the demand for basic goods such as milk, which were often imported from Iran. Indeed, the southern city of Basra has recently witnessed the opening of a dairy plant, which can produce up to 10 tonnes of packaged milk per hour, thus meeting the demand in Basra and its surroundings.

With its oil income largely spent on government operations, Iraq is in a desperate need of foreign investment to rebuild its still damaged infrastructure. Indeed, the 10 million dollar dairy plant itself was the product of Lebanese investment. In this sense, Iraq needs to diversify its portfolio of foreign investors to avoid potential backlash due to the Iranian sanctions.

It comes as little surprise that the new Iraqi president Barham Saleh visited Saudi Arabia where he was received by King Salman. In what was described as a "thawing of ties" the two leaders "discussed regional developments". Although Iraqis might wish for Saudi Arabia to be a top investor in their country, Iran's influence in Iraq can easily dissuade their arch-rivals from risking any money in a country full of Shiite militias.

Nevertheless, Saleh's visit to Saudi Arabia was preceded by his trip to Tehran. Meeting the Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on November 17, Saleh voiced his desire to further strengthen ties between the two counties, despite the short period of exemptions from US sanctions. Indeed, while trade between the two countries wasestimated to be worth roughly 7 billion dollars in 2017, the leaders have vowed to increase it to 8.5 billion this year.

The promise of trade was equally followed with the desire to further strengthen strategic ties, with Salih calling for the formation of a "new regional system", which Iraq and Iran would be part of. Moreover, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei asked Salih to preserve the Iran-backed Shia militia known as Hashd al-Sha'bi, which was recognised by the Iraqi government as a reserve force in December 2016.

Knowing that this militia is vehemently opposed by the United States government, it seems that Iraq faces a much greater challenge in addressing its connections to Iran. Indeed, while the temporary exemption from US sanctions is still in place, Iraq is quite likely to experience the impact of the sanctions in the near future. Moreover, while president Salih has said that Iraq should not be "a field for struggle between conflicting demands and wills", it seems that the recent talks with both Iran and Saudi Arabia highlight the complicated position of Iraq in Middle Eastern geopolitics, potentially giving way to future issues.The government of the United States of America has issued a warning to Ghana and five African countries, to be wary of two cryptocurrency fraudsters who are using investment mechanisms to defraud innocent people.



The Head of the United States Cyber Crime Unit, John P. Hooks, in a communique, warned thus: I would like to inform the public, especially in the following African countries and their government: Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana, DRC Congo that one Mr. Junior Capputti and Mr. Emerson Pires in the name of president and vice-president respectively, in one programme that they call a company that is known as Mining Capital Coin (MCC).



The above-mentioned names are con artists running a non-existence company to lure the public into investing their hard-earned money in the cryptocurrency market, which they promise unrealistic ROI and other benefits.



Our intelligence have information that the named persons in question have been, for a long time, working alongside a fugitive known as Mr. Danillo Santana, the owner of D9 clube one of the deadliest organised scam of all time.



If you see them in your countries, report to your nearest police station or call our hotline Interpol number below. 33472447163.



The warning comes just a few days after Ghanas state-owned Daily Graphic reported that exactly 109, 259 Ghanaian investors have been scammed by Global Coin Community Help (GCCH), a cryptocurrency investment syndicate.



The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has questioned the two directors of GCCH for allegedly swindling the investors of GHS135 million.



Mr Kwaku Damete Kumi and Mr David Opatey were released on bail by the state investigative body after several hours of interrogation last Tuesday.



The Executive Director of EOCO, Mr K. K. Amoah, confirmed their arrest in an interview with the Daily Graphic on Tuesday, 27 November.



Yes, we have arrested them and released them after thorough interrogations and we have asked them to report again next week to continue with them, the EOCO boss said.



We get a fresh list of depositors who have been swindled one way or another every day and so the 110,000 figure is likely to go up by the end of the week and the amount of deposits would likely go up.



There are several other syndicates of this type we have arrested and they are being questioned and very soon they will be arraigned, he added.



Mr Amoah said the directors were accepting deposits from the public without a licence from the Bank of Ghana.



Background checks on the tall list of some depositors seen by the Daily Graphic showed that majority of them were military personnel, medical doctors, policemen, immigration officials, teachers and traders.



Some of the depositors have formed pressure groups to pile pressure on the government to assist them to retrieve their locked-up lifetime savings.

















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Featured VideoTelecommunications giant, Vodafone Ghana has donated cash and products worth Ghc40,000 to the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) towards this years National Farmers Day event which takes place on Friday, 7th December.



The package includes Ghc 20,000 for the organisation of this years event, Vodafone souvenirs, Vodafone Farmers Club SIMs with 12 months airtime and data as well as free access to farmers helpline and useful information on crop and agric for all the Regional and National winners.



Additionally, the telco has announced a unique package of Ghc 10, 000 cash, a Vodafone tablet, VIP access to Farmers Club with extra airtime and data for the Best National Female Farmer, in line with its continuous commitment to empowering females in agriculture.



Speaking to a cross-section of the media during the presentation, Director of Enterprise Business Unit (EBU) at Vodafone Ghana, Angela Mensah-Poku said:



Vodafone is excited to join in the celebration of our national heroes and heroines within the agricultural sector. We are committed to driving innovation in agriculture whilst bridging the gap between farmers and critical farming information. Through our Farmers Club initiative, we have been connecting farms, agribusinesses and rural communities to drive productivity, profitability and innovation. This initiative provides farmers with access to relevant information on improved farming practices, crop information, prices of commodities and expert advice, in their preferred language.



In collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, we will from next year, reward and celebrate farmers who among other things use innovative and new technology in their operations. The category, to be titled National Digital Farmer of the Year, will encourage and drive innovation within the sector, she added.



The 34th edition of the National Farmers Day celebration will be held in Tamale, Northern Region.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Featured VideoThe Ghana Palaver newspaper, which is affiliated to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has appealed to an Accra High Court to grant it permission to apologize to nephew of President Akufo-Addo, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, for publishing libelous story about him.



DAILY GUIDE has sighted court documents in which Ghana Palaver that is published by Revalap Publishers has agreed to pay the filing fees and other costs associated with the suit in question.



It would be recalled that in one of its lead stories, the paper inaccurately stated that the controversial Finance Minister and cousin of President Akufo-Addo, Ken Ofori-Atta, has packaged a juicy contract and given it to a law firm founded by his equally controversial nephew, Asare Otchere Darko, popularly called Gabby.



The story was headlined: Revealed: Ken Ofori-Atta gives Gabby Otchere-Darko $20m Review Contract.



It subsequently described the purported contract as another example of the obscene form of nepotism and cronyism that have characterised the Akufo-Addo government



Mr. Otchere-Darko, a legal practitioner, who was dissatisfied with the publication which was intended to tarnish his reputation and that of the Finance Minister, decided to sue the newspaper.



The prayer to the court to be allowed to apologize to Mr. Otchere-Darko has exposed the diabolic agenda of the newspaper.



Publishers and editors of Ghana Palaver Newspaper, represented by Revalap Publishers and Suppliers and Eric Amedjoe, agreed to render an unqualified apology and full retraction of the story that gave rise to this suit, giving it front-page banner headline in the Ghana Palaver within 14 days of the consent judgement.



The unqualified apology and retraction shall be carried by the defendants on the website of the Ghana Palaver on the same day of its publication in the Ghana Palaver, DAILY GUIDE has gathered.



The defendants shall reimburse the plaintiff of the filing fees for all the processes filed so far in the suit within 30 days of entry of this settlement as consent judgement.



Per the agreement, supervised by Justice Eric Kyei Baffuor, High Court Judge, and signed on 20th November, 2018, the plaintiff fully reserves the right to move against the defendants should they default.

Source: Daily Guide









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Featured VideoThe Ghana Book Publishers Association (GBPA), led by its President Mr Elliot Agyare has called for renewed and deepened partnership with Ghana Library Authority to collectively address systematic issues affecting the progress of both institutions.



Mr Agyare made the call during a courtesy call on the Chief Executive Officer (Ag) of Ghana Library Authority, Hayford Siaw.



The President intimated on the critical role of the Ghana Library Authority in the development of Ghana, and though, they are aware of some of the challenges, the association is confident of a turnaround under the new leadership. The Ghana Library Authority with its network of libraries and professionals, is the right organization to lead the promotion of reading and the GBPA supports the declaration of 2019 as the Year of Reading Mr Agyare added. He assured the Associations readiness to support the GhLA in its planned activities.



Mr Siaw on his part assured the Association of GhLAs readiness to collaborate with GBPA to increase local book collections in our libraries in Ghana. To ensure systematic acquisition process, we have introduced an Acquisition and Distribution Unit which will work closely with all publishers to ensure, books conform to approved standards and qualifies to be on the shelves. He stated.



Over the past few months, we have deployed and currently testing the automation system in compilation of the Ghana National Bibliography. This provides a detailed list of all books and other published materials in Ghana. This will inform acquisition decisions of all special, school and academic libraries in Ghana and provide business for GBPA members He narrated.



Both parties agreed to work together on the annual Ghana International Book Fair and introduce the National Reading Conference to develop a vibrant ecosystem.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Featured VideoChiefs and opinion leaders have been cautioned against settling domestic and sexual violence cases in their palaces and at home but to swiftly report to the Police for appropriate action to be taken.



Superintendent of Police, Mr. George Appiah-Sakyi, Central Regional Co-ordinator of the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU), issued the warning at a days sensitisation workshop on the Domestic Violence Act at Assin Adadientem in the Assin South District of the Central Region.



He explained that domestic and sexual violence cases were criminal offences that must not be adjudicated at home and that perpetrators will not be spared by the long arm of the law.



The public must report cases of domestic violence and sexual abuse to the appropriate authorities whilst relatives and family members must not condone acts of incest because it was a criminal offence to engage in blood relationship in Ghana, he added.



Supt. Appiah-Sakyi noted that acts such as denying ones partner sex in marriage, starving ones husband, refusing to eat ones wifes food and verbal abuses were all forms of psychological abuses which were against the law.



Superintendent Appiah Sakyi proposed a periodic and constant education to upgrade the knowledge of traditional leaders on the Domestic Violence Act to enable them appreciate the issues involved.



Mrs Matilda Jennifer Buckman, a Community Development Officer at the Assin South Municipal Assembly expressed worry about the rate of divorce in the area which was negatively affecting children.



She said many of the children were going wayward and appealed to couples to try as much as possible to stay together.



Nii Lantei Tuaka II, Odikro of Adadientem expressed gratitude to DOVVSU for the sensitisation saying they were now aware of some of the laws they had no knowledge about.



The participants were taken through acts that constitute domestic violence, sexual and psychological abuses.

Source: GNA









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Featured VideoHuawei has launched the Huawei ICT Training Center, an ICT Talent Ecosystem Program for Ghana at the Customer Service Innovation Center (CSIC) of the Huawei Ghana Headquarters.



The training which will run from the 3rd to 19th of December, 2018 will seek to develop Ghanas ICT Talent pool while giving industry the opportunity to enhance and polish their ICT skills to meet the increasing domestic and global demand.



The first class will commence with 21 trainees from Huaweis local partners in Ghana including MTN Ghana, Vodafone Ghana, AirtelTigo Ghana, IPMC and National Identification Authority (NIA). The trainees will be taking the IP (Internet Protocol) HCNP (Huawei Certified Network Professional) Certification course which will see them become certified Huawei IP HCNP professional.



As part of this program, Huawei will be carrying vout several ICT certification programs including the Huawei ICT Academy for university students and industry practitioners, providing industry recognized certification HCNA, HCNP, HCIE, across extensive ICT technologies, such as Routing; Switching, Storage, Cloud Computing, Security, etc.



In order to further develop the ICT Talent pool, the Huawei ICT Training Center and the Certification Program is opened to all students from Ghanaian universities as well as industry players in the ICT ecosystem. In addition, to the initiative Huawei is also planning to organize events including an IP Competition and IP Club for tertiary students to promote a greater understanding of and interest in ICT while providing career defining opportunities to the students and professionals alike.



Mr. Tommy Zhou, Huawei Ghana MD said, Huawei is launching this platform to demonstrate that the young ICT talents in Ghana have the potential to become world-class experts. Today, Huawei is reiterating our commitment to working even more closely with partners across the continent to better equip the next generation of technology leaders. By enhancing industry-academic cooperation, Huawei as an international ICT Company, hope to make their contribution to the ICT development in Ghana to pave way to achieving a Smart Ghana.  He added



Mr. Vincent Sowah Odotei Deputy Minister of Communications who joined Mr. Tommy Zhou to officially unveil the Huawei ICT Training Center also added that the Government is keen on ICT development and commended Huawei for the initiative. He also urged the trainees to take the program seriously to enable them use whatever they learn to add up to the ICT development in Ghana.



Ghana just finished the National Finals of the 2018-2019 Huawei ICT Skill Competition last weekend (1st December) with selected ICT and Engineering students from KNUST, University of Ghana, Ghana Technology University and Accra Technical University taking part.





Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Featured VideoSeveral high-profile figures in Nigeria, including a former government minister, have claimed that President Muhammadu Buhari has died and been replaced by a lookalike from Sudan. Tweets, Facebook posts and YouTube videos repeating claims that the leader of Africas most populous nation is an imposter called Jubril have been shared and viewed over 500,000 times.

But there is no evidence to back up the claim and the government has not commented.  What are we verifying?  Former military ruler Buhari, 75, has made several trips to London for medical treatment since mid-2016. Initially, the presidency claimed he had a persistent ear infection. But concern mounted from early last year about his prolonged absences, prompting speculation the condition was more serious and might affect his ability to stay in power.

A lack of information about the exact nature of his illness, his gaunt features and a reduction in public appearances have fed speculation about his well-being. Claims about Buharis identity emerged a month after Buhari returned from another lengthy medical trip to the British capital. The earliest online mention of the claim found by AFP was in a video posted by Twitter user @sam_ezeh on September 3, 2017.

The video has since been shared more than 5,000 times on Facebook and Twitter. In it, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) movement, Nnamdi Kanu, speaks to his supporters and says Buhari had actually died. The man you are looking at in the television is not Buhari His name is Jubril, hes from Sudan. After extensive surgery they brought him back, he says. In separate broadcasts on the outlawed pirate radio station Radio Biafra, Kanu has called Buhari Jubril Al-Sudani. But on each occasion, he gave no evidence for the claim. The IPOB leader is a fervent critic of Buhari and the Nigerian government. His movement wants a separate independent state for the Igbo people who dominate southeast Nigeria.

On April 5, 2018, Femi Fani-Kayode, a former government special advisor and minister under president Olusegun Obasanjo, repeated the claim on Twitter (1). A similar post on his Facebook page was shared more than 400 times. Press releases and statements by IPOB and its sympathisers have repeated the claim (2). The rumour appears to have been fuelled further by a real-life event in May this year, when a Nigerian diplomat  Habibu Almu  was found dead in the Sudanese capital, Khartoum. Nigerias foreign ministry said on May 14 that Almu had been stabbed to death and that a Sudanese woman of Nigerian origin had been arrested. Sudanese police said the killing did not appear to be politically motivated but Kanu and others have claimed the death was linked to an apparent cover-up of Buharis death (3).





But analysis indicates the image of the right-handed Buhari had been reversed. One video even speculates on how a dead Buhari could have been operated on to transfer his appearance to Jubril from Sudan, showing a scene from the 1997 film Face/Off (4).  What conclusion can we draw?  The rumour has been stoked by Buharis illness, which saw him receive treatment abroad for a large part of 2017, and the killing of a Nigerian diplomat in Khartoum earlier this year. Those pushing the claim are known critics of Buhari and his government but have provided no concrete evidence to back up their assertion.





Source: vanguardngr.com









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Featured VideoPresident Akufo-Addo will from Tuesday commence a three-day tour of the Greater Accra Region in accordance with his commitment to pay working visits to all regions every year.



Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Information minister said the President will use his Greater Accra tour to commission and inspect 10 major projects.



On this tour like 20 other such visits since his assumption of office, President Akufo-Addo will make time to interact with chiefs and people, key stakeholders in the region as well as the Regional Security Councils, he told journalist at a press briefing on Sunday.



He disclosed that the President on his final tour of the year will use the opportunity to inspect on-going works across various sectors and commissions completed projects.



Mr Oppong Nkrumah disclosed that the President will inspect ongoing works on the Eastern Railway line in Accra, cut the sod for the construction of the James Town Fishing Harbour, a 25,000 Affordable Housing project at Amasaman as well as inspect the Abossey Okairoads construction.



He will also commission a multipurpose Astro-Turf and community centre in Ablekuma Central, the New Ultra Modern Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) office complex and a new Assembly Building and School Complex at Anyaa Sowutuom.



President Akufo-Addo will also inspect ongoing construction works on Tema Motorway Interchange, works of concrete roads at Tema Industrial Area, construction works on the Madina-Adenta Highway footbridges, and a Sunda Ltd 1D1F Factory at Bortianor / Ngleshi / Amanfrom.



According to the Offoase Ayeribi MP, the President will be using the opportunity to apprise himself of the status of work as well as urge agencies and contractors to ensure diligence and value for money.



These and the many other projects that the President has inspected or commissioned on the other 9 tours have been funded even in the midst of the limited fiscal space and huge arrears inherited by the Akufo-Addo administration, he said.



The Minister said the President expects that as outlined in the 2019 budget, the improving fiscal environment and a significant reduction in arrears will afford the administration the opportunity to ramp up more economic infrastructure projects nationwide.









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President Akufo-Addo has instructed the Ministry of Information to take steps to publish the 398 full report of the Brobbey Commission that inquired into the creation of new regions in 2018 under the chairmanship of Justice S.A. Brobbey.



It will be recalled that the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the constitutionality of the process initiated by the President upon receipt of petitions for the creation of six (6) new regions.



Minister of Information Kojo Oppong Nkrumah who made the revelation at a briefing in Accra on Sunday said the process of creating the new regions was initiated in accordance with Article 5 of the 1992 constitution which does not provide for the publication of the report of the report of commission of Inquiry.



He said this should not be confused with Article 278 commissions which require a mandatory publication of the report of the commission.



Mr. Oppong Nkrumah said President Akufo-Addo has however instructed that in accordance with his firm views on transparency the report should be published in full.



In an instruction note to the Ministry of Information, President Akufo-Addo states...that the dictates of good governance and transparency in the public space of a functioning democracy should lead me to authorize, prior to the planned referenda by the Electoral Commission on 27th December 2018, the publication of the Report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Creation of New Regions the minister revealed.



He said the Ministry of Information in accordance with the Presidents instructions will publish the report in full on the government online portal www.ghana.gov.gh as well as on our social media handles in the coming week.



It will also be made available at the Ghana Publishing Company for hard copy purchase.



Copies of the report will also be available to Parliament and subsequently disseminated across key stakeholder groups nationwide.





Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Featured VideoAs former President Mahama marked his 60th birthday last week Thursday, he has been advised by the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party to stop telling petty lies.



Mr. Bernard Antwi-Boasiako posited that it was unbefitting of Mr. John Mahama to still hold firmly to the practice of politics of deceit as he reaches the new age God has blessed him with.



The NPP chairman popularly known as Chairman Wontumi explained that it would be proper for former President Mahama to turn over a new leaf in his political career.



He was however quick to add that it would be difficult for former President Mahama to be as clean and truthful as President Nana Akufo-Addo.



JM is now 60, it is time for him to stop telling lies. It wont help him; he has done it in the past and it never worked for him so he must come clean now. I dont really believe his new age would change him in addressing issues truthfully, Chairman Wontumi said.



In pointing out some of the deceit being peddled by the former president as he seeks to be elected as Flagbearer of the NDC, Chairman Wontumi started that it was unfair for him (Mahama) to ever say that the hardship that Ghanaians are going through under the Akufo-Addo government is beyond imagination.



He added that comparing the economy Mr. John Mahama left behind, it was disgraceful  for him to accuse President Akufo-Addo of not performing to expectations.



Mahama failed as President and he must think about as he hit 60 years. The lies made him fail and he should be thankful to God his successor fears God and speaks the truth, Chairman Wontumi said.





Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Featured VideoEgypt's Defence Minister Mohamed Zaki told military officials at the opening ceremony of the countrys EDEX 2018 military expo that "those who have the keys to power can make peace."

Zaki saluted and expressed his deep appreciation of President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi for sponsoring EDEX 2018, which he said was the first international defence and security industry exhibition in north and central Africa.

The defence minister said that President El-Sisi's sponsorship of the exhibition aims at delivering a message to the world that the defence and armament systems are the main pillars of peace and security and the fortress of stability for nations and peoples.

He explained that this international gathering will provide an opportunity for countries and companies producing armament systems and defense systems to present the latest developments in the field of production and military manufacturing of modern technologies.

"The current situation around the world necessitates a power which can protect and sustain peace," said Zaki in his speech at the opening, adding that Egypt's ability to organise such events affirms its capability to maintain security and stability.

"The Egyptian armed forces have been and still are the faithful bastions of this nation's capabilities, and we have sought to acquire the elements of power only in order to maintain its security and safety in a world beset by conflicts."

This international exhibition is a great opportunity for countries and companies manufacturing defence and armament systems to present the leading-edge military technology, exchange expertise and develop ties in the area of military production, the defence minister added.

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From all indications, the largest opposition political party in the country, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is cash-strapped barely two years after the party was voted out of office by the electorate.



If the recent comments of the national officers of the party are anything to go by, then the NDC is in dire need of financial bailout to organize its programmes.



Even though the GH420,000 filing fee announced by the party has been described as outrageous, NDC General-Secretary, Johnson Asiedu-Nketia, says that is the surest way to go.



According to him, somebody has to pay the organization of the congress to elect a flagbearer on January 19, 2019.



The cost of living is high but somebody must pay the cost of running the elections; who is going to pay? he asked.



Its not clear how many of the 13 presidential candidates will be able to pay the GH400,000 filing fee and GH20,000 nomination fee.



But Alban S.K. Bagbin, one of the flagbearer aspirants, described the filling fee as opulent and elitist and called on the party leadership to reverse it because its against the tenets of social democracy  the partys ideology.



However, Mr. Asiedu-Nketia said, Social democracy is not povertyI have not declared to be a presidential candidate so those who have declared to be presidential candidates must pay the cost.



DAILY GUIDE learnt that since the NDC was voted out of office, former President John Mahama has been the sole financier of the partys programmes, including the recent national delegates congress held at the Ghana Trade Fair Centre in Accra to elect the national officers.



But this time round, the former president believes all the people challenging him must bear the cost of organizing the presidential contest, hence the imposition of the excessively high fees on the presidential candidates by the party.



Mr. Mahama is said to have raised the money through some admirers, but the other aspirants are threatening to petition the founder of the party, Jerry John Rawlings, and elders of the party for downward review of the fees.



Lalasula



The newly elected National Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, also hinted that the NDC is not financially sound presently.



Mr. Gyamfi stated that the NDC would rely heavily on donations by its teeming members across the country to organize the upcoming NDC presidential primaries.



The NDC executives will be organizing fundraising and other events to solicit money from our party members to help the NDC to organize the presidential primaries, he told Kumasi-based Nhyira FM.



Even though Sammy Gyamfi did not make an emphatic statement about the financial status, his recent statement on radio clearly shows that the party is not financially sound.



In 2015, whilst in power, the NDC charged its aspirants GH50,000 at that time when ex-President John Mahama was the sole candidate.



Thus, the current GH420,000 for filing fees and nomination forms represent a GH370,000 increase, representing 700 per cent.



According to Sammy Gyamfi, the party members should be ready to assist the party through other donations to ensure successful NDC presidential primaries.



It is significant to note that the NDC was able to construct an expensive and ultra-modern party head office at the cost of $20 million in Accra a few years ago when the party was in political office.



The party cannot also pay electricity bills in the new edifice.



Interestingly, the same political party, which displayed opulence when it was in political office, is now depending on contributions to even organize its primaries.



The National Communications Officer also justified the partys decision to charge a staggering GH420,000 as nomination and filing fees from the NDC presidential aspirants, noting that the party needs money to make the event successful.



He disclosed that about 400,000 NDC members across the 10 regions of the country and beyond will be voting in all the 275 constituencies on the day and this is a huge number; therefore, we need money to organize it.

Source: Daily Guide









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Featured VideoThe Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon Alban S.K Bagbin says presidential aspirants of the National Democratic Congress will advise themselves if the partys Council of Elders fail to impress on the national executives to reduce the GH400,000 filing fee.



He said it is not the nature of the party; which is 'socially democratic' to impose such huge fee on its members just because they want to serve their country.



Hon Bagbin is one of the flagbearer hopefuls of the NDC; except former President John Mahama who have teamed up to fight a decision by the party to charge a whopping GHS 400,000 as filing fees for candidates who wish to lead the party into the 2020 general elections.



Speaking in an interview with Kwami Sefa-Kayi on Peace FM morning show 'Kokrokoo', Hon Bagbin said it is the responsibility of the party to help in organisation of events and not aspirants.



If you may recall, the General Secretary of the party, Johnson Asiedu Nketia had said the reason for imposing such huge amount of money on the aspirants is for the party to be able to organise the upcoming presidential primary.



However, Bagbin says: that is not NDC at allThe responsibility to organize primaries is for the party. It is not to be put on the shoulders of those aspiring to serve the nationyou cannot isolate the aspirants and then go for the kill. Until we do what is right, on principle, we will not be part of what is happening"



According to him, "the cost of the form should not be less than GHC5000 while filing fees go for GHC100,000" apart from that, "the 10 days (for filing of forms) is also not enough"



Background



The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the NDC had announced that all male flagbearer aspirants of the party will pay GHc400,000 as filing fee while female flagbearer aspirants will pay GHc200,000.



Persons with disability who wish to contest the position are expected to pay GHc150, 000.



In addition, the nomination form for the NDC flagbearer slot has also been pegged at GHS20, 000, with all aspirants having 10 days to officially file.









Source: Rebecca Addo Tetteh/Peacefmonline.com/[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Former president John Dramani Mahama on Monday, 3 November 2018, picked a nomination form to contest as the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).



Some executives from the Asawase Constituency of the NDC picked the forms on behalf of Mr Mahama at the partys headquarters in Accra.



The nomination forms is being sold for GHS20,000.



The filing fee has been pegged at GHS400,000.



So far, Mr Mahama is the only candidate to pick the forms.



The NDCs presidential primary is slated for 19 January 2019.



Meanwhile, MPs4Mahama, a group of 96 Minority Members of Parliament who have declared their support for Mr Mahama's bid to run for the NDC flag bearer slot ahead of the 2020 general elections, has so far mobilised 603 pledges of GHS1,000 each towards footing the filing fees of Mr Mahama.



Sources close to MPs4Mahama says the group has so far raised GHS600,000 through its "Operation 420 people willing to contribute GHS1,000 for JM" campaign.



Apart from the 603, the immediate-past Ashaiman Constituency Chairman of the NDC, Shaddad Umar Jallo, has also promised to pay half of the GHS400,000 filing fee for former president John Mahama.



According to Mr Jallo, his decision to support the former president is borne out of love for him coupled with his ability to win political power for the NDC in the 2020 elections.



In an interview with Class News, Mr Jallo refuted an assertion that the flag bearer race is now for the highest bidder.



Explaining further, Mr Jallo argued that all aspirants who cannot raise the GHS400,000 filing fee are not eligible to lead the NDC to be president.



When I heard about it, I said its good because the party needs money to run the party. If somebody likes John Mahama in this country, Im the first person because I used my 4 x 4 car and branded it John Mahama because I want John Mahama to come back so we can take power from the NPP in 2020.



Nobody can take power for the party in 2020 than John Mahama. Because of that, this GHS400,000, I Shaddad Jallo, Ill make sure that Ill pay half of that money for John Mahama because I love him, I want him to come back to take power for us in 2020.



Furthermore, a group of spare parts dealers at Abossey Okai has also pledged to pay half of the amount for Mr Mahama.



The NDC at its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Thursday, 29 November at the partys headquarters in Accra, resolved that all male flag bearer aspirants are expected to pay GHS400,000 as filing fee while female flag bearer aspirants are to pay GHS200,000 and persons with disability aspiring to the same position are to pay GHS150,000.



Critics, including some of the flag bearer aspirants, have slammed the exorbitant filing fee.

Source: Class News









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We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

Go to formRussian officials said the problem was caused by a faulty sensor that was bent during the rockets assembly process. They did not offer more specifics.

"I just remember this very poignant realization that 'wow,' we just had a failure of the booster,'" said Nick Hague, the NASA astronaut aboard the flight, in a later Q&A. "There was a little bit of disbelief, because it hasn't happened in 35 years."

In 1983, a fire on the launch pad triggered the Soyuz tower escape system, blasting two cosmonauts away to safety. Prior to that, there had been only one other Soyuz launch accident: a 1975 in-flight abort late in the ascent, which sent the capsule on an emergency landing path that ended near the Chinese border.

Analysts and space historians say Russia's current rocket woes can be traced back to the fall of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, which caused a major upheaval in most Russian industries  including aerospace. In a recent article for The Space Review, Dwayne Day, a senior program officer at the National Academy of Sciences, writes that a lack of new government-sponsored missions led to an exodus of talented scientists and engineers from the Russian space program.

"The lucky ones moved to the West, some finding jobs in European scientific institutions and a few even ending up in the United States," Day said. "Many others simply left their fields entirely. By the turn of the century, there were few experienced space scientists left in the country."

At the same time, as I've previously reported, Russia's population has declined. Larger economic pressures have forced the country to slash education funding and minimize space investments. Not enough young, well-trained rocket scientists are available to replace retiring space veterans. In an article for Aerospace America by James Oberg, a space writer and retired NASA engineer, former cosmonauts are quoted as agreeing with this assessment.

"The staff employed are either over 60 or under 30," said Georgy Grechko, who died in 2017. "There is no intermediate age group. A generation was lost for the space industry, when it was struggling to survive.

The overall effect has been a sharp decline in labor quality  and that has led to accidents. From 2011 through 2018, The Planetary Society has tracked 17 launch failures (table below), equaling an average of 2.1 per year. This is the same window of time that the U.S. has been relying on Russia for crew transportation to the ISS in the wake of the space shuttle's retirement.

SpaceX and Boeing are both scheduled to begin crew flights to the ISS next year, but that timeline continues to slip. NASA recently announced the uncrewed test flight of SpaceX's Crew Dragon would occur on 7 January 2019, but NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine recently said that date was unlikely, predicting a vague window for the first half of 2019.

With McClain, Saint-Jacques, and Kononenko safely in orbit, ISS program managers hope to return to normal operations. First on the docket: the arrival of a SpaceX cargo vehicle, which is scheduled to blast off tomorrow, 4 December, from Cape Canaveral at 13:38 EST (18:38 UTC). On 11 December, both Russian cosmonauts are scheduled to take a spacewalk to inspect a mysterious hole found in the orbital module of the Soyuz that carried Gerst, Aunon-Chancellor, and Prokopyev to the station. The cause of the hole, which is now patched, is still under investigation by Russian officials.

17 Russian launch failures in 8 yearsKIGALI  For millions of ordinary travellers, inter-African travel is often a nightmare.

Be it border hassles, lack of road or air routes linking key cities, or the frustrations of being refused entry to a country because of visas, the end result is to curtail the free movement of people, viewed by the African Development Bank as one of the pillars of regional integration.

That freedom of movement is inextricably tied to the Banks vision to create the next global market in Africa.

As the Africa Economic Conference opens in Rwandas capital Kigali, the theme this year: Regional and continental integration for Africas development, also aligns with another major Bank priority  placing infrastructure development at the centre of Africas regional integration efforts.

Host nation Rwanda has taken bold leadership steps to champion regional integration, announcing at the beginning of this year an entry visa on arrival for travellers from all African countries.

The third edition of the Banks Visa Openess Index, to be launched on day two of the meeting, will be an important opportunity to measure which countries are making improvements that support free movement of people across Africa.

The Index has helped raise awareness and drive visa policy reforms across the continent to ease movement of people, unlocking opportunities for intra-African tourism, trade and investment. In so doing, the Bank is directly contributing to the objectives of the AU initiative for a Single African passport, Gabriel Negatu, Bank Director General, East Africa Regional Development and Business Delivery Office said in his remarks during the opening plenary.

Speaking on behalf of Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Hon. Claudine Uwera, Minister of State in charge of Economic Planning said the conference addressed a theme close to our hearts.

This conference is important to charting the way for inclusive integrationthat would benefit all, Uwera said.

Governance will determine the development path for our countries, Uwera added, noting the equally important role of political will and commitment from African leaders.

The annual Africa Economic Conference is the continents leading forum fostering dialogue and knowledge exchange in the search for solutions to the development challenges of Africa. It brings together leading academics, high ranking government representatives and development practitioners from across the globe.

AEC 2018 will highlight transformative initiatives for accelerating progress in infrastructure integration that is inclusive and promotes equity, including the removal of barriers for movement of people, goods, and services across borders.

The government of Rwanda is walking the talk and continues to set the pace, Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant Administrator, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Regional Bureau for Africa, said.

Also speaking at the plenary, Giovanie Biha, Deputy Executive Secretary, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), said while there were still major steps ahead, we are moving in the right direction.

Highlighting the Banks emphasis on research and knowledge management as important drivers of policy dialogue, good policy planning, and implementation, participation this years AEC is being organized under the leadership of the Banks Research Department and Regional Integration Complex.

Sessions over the three-day meeting will examine the social, cultural and political frameworks for successful integration, building on the landmark signing this year of the Africa Free Trade Agreement the worlds potentially biggest free trade agreement, which aims to create a single continental market for goods and services, with free movement of business persons and investments across Africa.

Participants will also look at the role of the private sector and civil society institutions.

Given the urgency of regional integration  no longer a choice, according to its organizers, this years meeting is a must attend for those interested in Africas Development Agenda.

Important pages of our continents development history are being written, Uwera said. Lets take this opportunity to move the continent ahead.

The 2018 Africa Economic Conference is taking place at the Marriot Hotel in Kigali, from 3-5 December.

RelatedFrench Minister of the Armed Forces Florence Parly arrived in Egypt on Monday as part of a foreign tour.

Parly headed a military delegation which attended Egypt's first military expo EDEX 2018 which kicked off on Monday and is expected to last until Wednesday. The French defense minister toured the exhibition with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.

A total of 373 major defense companies from 41 countries are participating in EDEX which is organized by Egypt's Armed Forces under the auspices of President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, the fair  the first of its kind in Africa  will showcase the latest military and security technology, equipment and systems.

Parly's visit to Egypt comes within the framework of strategic partnerships of France and the Middle East.

In a statement, the French Ministry of the Armed Forces said that, during the visit, Parly will confer with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and Defense Minister Mohamed Zaki on means of boosting cooperation between Egypt and France along with the latest regional developments, especially the Libyan crisis.

Parly will meet with French industrialists who have cooperation ties in Egypt.

After visiting Egypt, Parly will head for Kuwait where she will discuss with Emir Sheikh Sabah al Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah and Defense Minister Sheikh Naser Sabah al Ahmad the situation in the Middle East and the important role of Kuwait in the region.

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The agency said on Facebook on Friday, "So far we've counted over $20,000 and over 12,000 pounds of food!" Image courtesy of Lakewood PD / Facebook.

On Thursday, community members in Lakewood, WA, marked the nine-year anniversary of the ambush murder of four of their police officersOfficers Mark Renninger, Greg Richards, Tina Griswold, and Ronald Owens.

The four officers were at a local coffee shop when Maurice Clemmons entered the establishment and ambushed them.

Every year, community members raise flags at the memorial, according to Fox News. In addition, community members can donate food at the police department.

This year, 70 soldiers from nearby Joint Base LewisMcChord marched three miles to drop off more than 2,000 pounds of food.

The agency said on Facebook on Friday, "So far we've counted over $20,000 and over 12,000 pounds of food!"

The department also said, "We are so thrilled to report that we had 55 blood donor registrations yesterday."Officers with the Orlando (FL) Police Department visited the home of Officer Kevin Valencia to deliver some Christmas Cheer. Image courtesy of Orlando PD / Facebook.

Officers with the Orlando (FL) Police Department visited the home of Officer Kevin Valencia to deliver some Christmas Cheer.

According to WFTV News, the officers spent their day off decorating Valencia's home with lights

Valencia remains in a coma after being shot in June while responding to a domestic disturbance call.A deputy with the Ouachita Parish (LA) Sheriff's Office was shot in his patrol vehicle as he was responding to a call of a theft of an ATV, according to KNOE-TV.

Sheriff Jay Russell said that the bullet struck the deputy in his body armor, then ricocheted into the back seat of the squad car.

Russell said that the deputy's partner took him to the hospital to undergo a precautionary x-ray. Russell said that the deputy should be okay.Over the weekend, the East Pittsburgh (PA) Police Department disbanded, less than six months after the fatal officer-involved shooting of 17-year-old Antwon Rose.

Rose was shot by an East Pittsburgh police officer June 19 while running away from a car that had been pulled over after an earlier shooting in North Braddock.

Officer Michael Rosfeld is awaiting trial on a charge of criminal homicide, and Rose's family has filed a lawsuit that names the borough, its police chief and the mayor as defendants.

The Pennsylvania State Police immediately took over patrolling the borough, according to WTAE-TV News.

In a statement, the PSP said that the agency will "provide full police services for political subdivisions that are without the protection of an organized police department and will respond to all calls for police assistance. In the event that the citizens of any political subdivision find themselves without police protection, for any reason, the PSP are obligated by law to provide the necessary police service."Andrzej Duda pointed out that COP24 is taking place in the year when Poland celebrates the centenary of regaining its independence.

President Andrzej Duda and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres are attending Monday's official opening of the COP24 climate summit, which has started in Katowice, south Poland.

The opening was accompanied by a so-called High Level Panel, whose speakers included Andrzej Duda, Antonio Guterres, COP23 President and Fijian state head Frank Bainimarama, UN General Assembly head Maria Fernanda Espinosa, COP24 President Micha Kurtyka, Polish Environment Minister Henryk Kowalczyk and Katowice Mayor Marcin Krupa.

Poland is ready today to take its share of responsibility for international security, including in the sphere of climate policy, President Andrzej Duda said at the official opening.

Andrzej Duda pointed out that COP24 is taking place in the year when Poland celebrates the centenary of regaining its independence.

"The organisation of the climate summit proves that, just like the Poland reborn 100 years ago, our country is today actively working for peaceful cooperation between states, based on the principles of: observance of international law, equality, solidarity and mutual respect," the President stressed.

The Polish President also said that Poland is ready to support the negotiations "of key importance for the future of our and future generations" to be conducted during the summit.

On Monday, heads of state will be asked to adopt the Declaration on Just Transition, drafted by the Polish government, dedicated to ensuring a fair and solidarity-based transformation that will help to protect the climate while maintaining economic development and jobs.

Also on Monday in Katowice, Andrzej Duda will also meet Slovenian President Borut Pahor, Vatican State Secretary Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Swiss President Alain Berset, Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, Montenegrin President Milo Djukanovic, Fijian President Josaia Voreque Bainimarama (Frank Bainimarama), and Macedonian President Gjorge Ivanov.

The COP24 summit will continue until December 14, its main objective is the passage of legislation implementing the Paris Agreement. (PAP/MK)Statement by the President of the Republic of Poland, Mr. Andrzej Duda

at the official opening of the Climate Summit and the COP24 Leaders' Summit

Excellency, Mr Secretary-General of the United Nations,

Honourable Prime Minister of Fiji, COP23 President,

Honourable Presidents and Heads of Government,

Honourable President of the United Nations General Assembly,

Honourable COP24 President,

Honourable Madam Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change,

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

All Distinguished Guests,

Dear Friends!

I am delighted to welcome you, the world leaders, at the opening of the COP24 Climate Summit and the at accompanying Leaders' Summit, taking place here in Katowice, in my home country: Poland.

The 24th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, inaugurated in the year which marks centenary of Poland's regaining independence and of its resurgence in international arena, has a double significance for me. First, because the organising the Climate Summit is proof that today our country is actively working for peaceful cooperation between states, based on the principles of respect of international law, equality, solidarity and mutual respect, very much the same way as the reborn Poland did one hundred years ago.

Second, as it was the case a hundred years ago, also nowadays Poland is ready to take its share of responsibility for international security, including also climate dimension of the latter. We are ready to support the negotiations scheduled for the next two weeks, ahead of adoption of decisions of key importance to our own future and to that of next generations to come.

It would probably be difficult to celebrate this great anniversary in a more concrete and meaningful way. Using this opportunity, I would therefore like to thank you that through decision of the 22nd Session of the Conference of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change: COP22, hosted in November 2016 in Marrakech, it is Poland that can host this year's climate summit.

Poland, like few others, has considerable experience in this area. It is for the fourth time that we chair the Conference, and the third time that we host it. The previous Climate Summits that have been organised in Poland are: COP14 in Poznan in 2008, and COP19 in Warsaw in 2013. This year in turn, we meet in the heart of the Upper Silesia: in Katowice. This city is a model example of how a consistent policy of transformation, albeit sensitive to the human factor, helps to create favourable conditions for the development of innovative enterprises in a place which is hub of heavy industry and mining. What is more, Katowice is currently one of the greenest cities in Poland, where forests occupy over 40% of the total urban area.

Is it not surprising, but concurrently symbolic, that this year's COP24 conference will take place precisely in a venue of an old coal mine?

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The guiding principle of COP24 is: Changing together. It has a double dimension. First, negative consequences of climate change are being felt in all regions of the world, albeit to varying degrees. To halt them requires coordinated action and cooperation by all parties to the Climate Convention, undertaken in the spirit of the Paris Accord.

The second dimension of the Conferences motto has a positive aspect to it: through international, solidarity-based cooperation, through positive multilateralism, economic, scientific and social development can be achieved at global level. In other words: I am convinced that technological progress, which translates into pollution of our planet, and thus climate change, can at the same time serve the purpose of cleansing natural environment, improving living conditions of people all over the world and providing opportunities for sustainable development.

However, I would like us to recall how we have reached the point in which we are now, how long and sometimes bumpy the road has been. For global climate policy, the first moment of key importance was the Kyoto conference in December 1997. It was there that the first global agreement on emissions was reached, which took into account the asymmetry existing between developed and developing countries.

Poland is a good example of a country which proceeds in line with sustainable development: over the years our economy's carbon footprint has declined while our GDP continues to grow. Poland managed to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 30% compared to the base year 1988 (the Kyoto Protocol requirement being 6%), ensuring energy security and the development of industry based on efficient coal technologies.

Therefore, the use of a countrys own natural resources, i.e. of hard coal in the case of Poland, and dependence on such resources for the sake of ones own energy security does not clash with climate protection and progress achieved in this vein.

I would like to emphasise once again that in Poland, greenhouse gas emissions are constantly falling, and that Polish economy is reducing its emissions, while at the same time it keeps developing at a dynamic pace.

The second milestone, which ushered in a qualitative change, was the Paris conference of 2015: COP21, which provided that all countries would pursue their climate policies in the spirit of Common But Differentiated Responsibility.

Today, three years after Paris and one year ahead of next year's autumn Climate Summit to be convened by the UN Secretary-General, the world is facing another historic test. Here in Katowice, we the world leaders, must prove our readiness to fully implement the plan we designed back in 2015.

The Paris Agreement was a political document that defined the fundamental tenets of world climate policy. In Katowice, we are confronted with an undertaking which is much more complicated. We have to create a kind of "instruction manual" - the Katowice rule book - which will tell us how to implement the principles of the Paris Agreement. Without success in Katowice, the Paris agreement will not meet the hopes and expectations that were placed in it.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am convinced that, as members of the international community, we all want the Katowice package to be comprehensive and embracing all areas of the Paris Agreement, but also be in line with Sustainable Development Goals to be achieved. According to the latter, climate policies and actions must take full account of the interdependence between all elements of the climate system - atmosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere, as they were defined in the Convention.

The particular role of synergies between the UNFCC (The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change), the UNCBD (The United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity) and the UNCCD (The United Nations Convention on Combating Desertification) should be highlighted. It is important to take joint actions with the view of mitigating of emissions, securing CO2 sequestration by natural resources, halting soil degradation and achieving climate neutrality, as well as effective and efficient adaptation to climate change.

Actions aimed at halting negative climate change, understood in such a way, will also contribute, among other things, to combating poverty and eradicating hunger. The modern world, despite its technological progress, is still struggling to satisfy mankinds most basic needs. Millions of people live without safe access to water, food, energy or education. Elimination of these injustices and giving everyone a chance for sustainable development is one of the most important challenges we have to face. The full implementation of the Paris Agreement is not only the responsibility that has been vested in all of us; it is, above all, an opportunity for peaceful and sustainable development in the world.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

According to the concept advocated by the Polish Presidency, the responsible climate policy is the one built on a solid foundation, underpinned by balance between nature and technology, and that with due recognition of human dignity as a superior value. Poland as a country would like to point out that, on the one hand, natural resources management cannot clash with protection of nature, and on the other hand, it must not cause harm to the community.

Poland translated this concept, contained in the triad: man-nature-technology, into the language of international documents, to be an input to the climate policy in the global dimension.

The three complementary declarations that we have prepared include:

Solidarity and Just Transition Silesia Declaration, in which its signatories reaffirm that the social aspect of the transition to a low-carbon economy is key to achieving broad public acceptance of the changes taking place; The Silesian Ministerial Declaration "Forests for Climate" - whose parties pledge to take action to preserve and improve the condition of greenhouse gas absorbers and tanks, including primarily forests. In other words, our aim is to create the conditions for CO2 emissions which will be balanced out with their absorption by ecosystems, so as to curb its growth, to stabilise it, and then reduce its concentration in the atmosphere. Sustainable and multifunctional forest management is of key importance in this respect. And the Polish experience in forest management can be cited as an example to be followed world-wide. Driving Change Together - Katowice Partnership for Electromobility - which draws attention to the significant challenge related to emissions caused by transport. This sector is responsible for around 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The Electromobility Partnership focuses on technological and organisational change, steering the world towards zero emission transport.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

The Paris Agreement has united us in the fight against a common threat. While here in Katowice, let us recall how back in 2015, without major exceptions, we adopted a global climate agreement based on autonomously defined national contributions - Nationally Determined Contributions; NDCs.

It is my profound deep conviction that there is no other option available to our countries than to implement the Katowice rule book package. Our presence here demonstrates that there is an actual political will to implement them.

Over the next few days, negotiators from all over the world, gathered here in Katowice, will be facing a great challenge. Let me assure you that Poland, as the host of COP24, is very much counting on our common success. The success that in the future may determine security, quality of life and development prospects for all countries of our globe.

I am convinced that it will be the case, and I wish we could all see this happen.

Thank you for your attention.Crypto Traders Expect Growth, NordFX

The balance of powers in the Forex market depends on a number of factors. Getting familiar with an unbiased forecast helps market players figure out what to do next and what to expect in the market. Such information hits an the most probable market scenarios that may manifest themselves in the near future, which in its turn may give them a decent opportunity to increase the potential profit.

Roman Boutko, an expert from NordFX has released another forecast for the current trading week. For starters, he offers to take a look at the previous trading week to evaluate how precise it eventually turned out to be. When creating this consensus forecast, they expert analysed the forecasts made by a number of experts, who make use of different analytical methods and techniques. This is what the current consensus forecast looks like:

Studying the EUR/USD chart shows that the price created a pennant in November, with a tendency to consolidate around 1.1315-1.1350. While prediting the next price move of EUR/USD, 60% of the experts, and more than 90% of the technical indicators (H4 and D1) taken into account during the process of making the consensus forecast, assume that the most probable scenario is another round of strengthening of the U.S. Dollar against the Euro, with testing this year's low at 1.1215.

.

The nearest market trends will probably be determined by the G20 summit as well as the Fed chairman's speeches on Wednesday and Friday. On top of that, the end of the week is the time when the U.S. Department of Labor is expected to release another report on the American labor market. According to numerous forecasts, the so-called Non-Farm Payrolls may drop some 15-20% against the previous stats. If that's the case, the American national currency may weaken a bit. It should also be noted that when widening the scope of the forecast from weekly to monthly one, 605 of the experts are bullish on the currency pair. In particular, they expect a recovery up to the 1.1400-1.1500 area.

As for GBP/USD, the currency pair is currently close to the area of local lows of 1.2670-1.2695. The graphical analysis of the H4 chart (which is supported by 90% of trending indicators and oscillators) predicts a move down below the area, with a chance of entering the 1.2600-1.2620 area.

Still, having considered a number of major factors, unlike the indicators, the experts are not in a hurry to make specific predictions. Only 55% of them are clearly bearish on the currency pair. The others are sure that the currency pair won't be able to break below the mentioned lows and will head for 1.2900 instead.

Also, the experts aren't clear about the near-term prospects fo the Japanese Yen. The experts are divided 50/50 on the direction in which USDJPY is expected to move over the trading week. Apparently, they are waiting for the results of the G20 summit, which set a lot of controversial expectations

When it comes to cryptocurrencies, making specific predictions is even more difficult given the fact that the true value fo digital currencies is next to impossible to figure out. Indeed, they are purely digital, which is why they don't actually have any intrinsic value, thus making those forecast differ from each other quite a lot. Mining costs are not something that international experts have been focused on in this case.

Still, 60% of the experts expect Bitcoin to continue its way down to 3000 dollars per coin. 30% belive the world's first cryptocurrency will manage to stay in the range between 4000 and 4500 dollars per coin. The remaining 10% are convinced that the current market situation is nothing but big players' attempt to manipulate the market and force the crowd into selling them the coin at a discount.

You are free to discuss this article here: forum for traders and investorsIf you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found hereEgyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi met on Monday with both the Cypriot and French defence ministers on the sidelines of the first Egyptian defence expo, El-Sisis spokesman said.

During his meetings with French Defence Minister Florence Parly, El-Sisi highlighted the importance of the strategic relations between Egypt and France, praising the cooperation between them in various fields, especially in the military field.

El-Sisi expressed his hopes of developing bilateral cooperation in a way that serves the common interests of both countries, his spokesman, Bassam Rady, said.

Parly confirmed her keenness to attend EDEX 2018, and said that her country is proud of the participation of 31 French companies in the exhibition, according to El-Sisis spokesman.

EDEX 2018 is the first such defence expo in Egypt, and is being organised this week by the Egyptian armed forces under the auspices of the President El-Sisi.

The meeting on Monday was attended by a number of French and Egyptian officials, including Egyptian Defence Minister Mohamed Zaki.

Officials also discussed ways to enhance military cooperation between the two countries as well as the latest developments in regional and international issues of common interest, such as ways to combat terrorism.

The French and the Egyptian officials also discussed the latest on the Libyan crisis, with a focus on the Egyptian efforts to support the Libyan army in its pivotal role in imposing security and stability in Libya.

Rady added that the meeting dealt with the exchange of views on ways of tripartite cooperation between Egypt and France on the African continent, in light of Egypt's assumption of the presidency of the African Union next year.

El-Sisi also met with Cypriot Defence Minister Savvas Angelides on Monday, who is also participating in EDEX 2018; El-Sisi hailed the distinguished relations between both countries, Rady said, and expressed his hope to continue to develop military cooperation and joint exercises between the two countries.

Egypt

The president stressed the importance of the exhibition as the first of its kind in northern and central Africa, Rady said, with the participation of the most important companies specialised in this field from around the world.

For his part, Angelides expressed his admiration for the distinguished participation of the world's leading companies in this field, which confirms the prestige and weight that Egypt enjoys and its pivotal role in the Middle East and the Mediterranean.

He also stressed the aspiration of his country to continue to open new horizons for cooperation to serve the interests of both countries.

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Focusing on the works of four different artistsMikhail Vrubel, Vasily Kandinsky, Kazimir Malevich, and Vladimir TatlinTaroutina shows how engagement with medieval pictorial traditions drove each artist to transform his own practice, pushing beyond the established boundaries of his respective artistic and intellectual milieu. She also contextualizes and complements her study of the work of these artists with an examination of the activities of a number of important cultural associations and institutions over the course of several decades. As a result, The Icon and the Square gives a more complete picture of Russian modernism: one that attends to the dialogue between generations of artists, curators, collectors, critics, and theorists.

From the Introduction

In 1910 the Russian artist, critic, and art historian Alexander Benois (18701960) proclaimed that one way or another, all new artists are guilty of Byzantinisma trend that, according to him, was neither isolated nor localized, but signaled a widespread turning point in the artistic culture of the early twentieth century. Singling out Henri Matisse as one of the most important pioneers of Byzantinism, Benois wrote: Matisse develops mistakes and blunders into a system, a theory. . . . A return to correct design, to accurate coloration, is no longer possible for him. Any such return would be a compromise. For Benois, the term Byzantinism signified not only a particular set of modernist pictorial values, which he identified as a simplified style, monumentality, and primitive decorativeness, but also a new theory of art that firmly rejected the slightest hints of representational illusionism as an aesthetic compromise. Benoiss deployment of the word Byzantinism can be interpreted in two ways: either as a convenient metaphor or historical analogy for modernism or as a genuine (mis)reading of Byzantine goals and aesthetics as anachronistically protomodern. In any case, he was not alone in equating Byzantinism with modernist painting. Only two years before him, Roger Fry had similarly described the Postimpressionist works of Signac, Gauguin, Van Gogh, and Cezanne as proto- Byzantine, articulating a cyclicalrather than a teleologicaltheory of artistic development. He argued that Impressionism has existed before, in the Roman art of the Empire, and it too was followed, as I believe inevitably, by a movement similar to that observable in the Neo-Impressionistswe may call it for convenience Byzantinism. In the mosaics of Sta Maria Maggiore . . . one can see something of this transformation from Impressionism in the original work to Byzantinism in subsequent restorations. It is probably a mistake to suppose, as is usually done, that Byzantinism was due to a loss of the technical ability to be realistic, consequent upon barbarian invasions. In the Eastern Empire there was never any loss of technical skill; indeed, nothing could surpass the perfection of some Byzantine craftsmanship. Byzantinism was the necessary outcome of Impressionism, a necessary and inevitable reaction from it.Modern art was thus understood by Benois and Fry as an essentially Byzantine revival, one that had

intentionally shifted the representational paradigm, much like Byzantine art had done centuries before. This definition of modernism significantly departs from conventional accounts of the subject, which have largely prevailed to this day. According to these narratives, Edouard Manet and the Impressionists inaugurated a distinctive new style in painting in the 1860s and 1870s as a direct response to the changing fabric of everyday life and especially to transformations in the urban landscape and in middle- class leisure. The defining characteristic of this novel modern art was a progressively selfconscious emphasis on its own materiality and the two-dimensionality of the canvas. Clement Greenberg famously professed thatManets became the first Modernist pictures by virtue of the frankness with which they declared the flat surfaces on which they were painted. The Impressionists, in Manets wake, abjured underpainting and glazes, to leave the eye under no doubt as to the fact that the colors they used were made of paint that came from tubes or pots. . . . It was the stressing of the ineluctable flatness of the surface that remained, however, more fundamental than anything else to the processes by which pictorial art criticized and defined itself under Modernism.By contrast, the early twentieth- century Russian theorists Nikolai Punin (18881953) and Nikolai Tarabukin (18891956) argued that Manet and the Impressionists marked the end of the whole tradition of European art, instead of a new beginning, since their practice was still essentially rooted in the naturalist transcription of external reality, a project that began during the Italian Renaissance. For them, Manets Olympia was nothing more than a modernist revision of Titians Venus of Urbino, rather than a complete rejection of that representational paradigm tout court. Describing the Renaissance as a bankrupt tradition, Punin pessimistically observed in 1913 that since the fall of the Byzantine Empire . . . European painting had slowly and gradually edged toward its demise. . . . Manet, Monet, Degas, Renoir . . . this entire mass of international artists, this entire school of followers[is] an enormous procession of the dead. One explanation for this negative view was the absence of a historical Renaissance in Russia, which meant that the nations artists and critics had to identify a different artistic golden age that they could claim as their cultural patrimony. Furthermore, the external markers of modernity that were so ubiquitous in Paris in the aftermath of Haussmannization were much less pronounced in Moscow and St. Petersburg. By the close of the nineteenth century, Russia was significantly underindustrialized in comparison to the other Great Powers. The countrys population was still largely agrarian, and despite increasing urban development, the growth in Moscow and St. Petersburg could not compete with the dizzying proliferation of arcades, department stores, street cafes, bars, and cabarets that were so prevalent in other European capitals.As a consequence, several scholars have characterized Russian modernism as an exemplary case of alternative modernity, which neither protested nor retreated from the modern world, but instead recast it as a new, spiritual age. Thus, for example, in her study of Silver Age poetry, Martha M. F. Kelly astutely observes that, in Russias case, modernism often takes on the aspect of a neo- religious model of modernity, and the writings of poets such as Alexander Blok, Mikhail Kuzmin, and Anna Akhmatova actively fuse the legacy of the Western humanities with the ritual and insight of Russian Orthodoxya combination that the authors believed could restore the fractured body of modern society. In the realm of the visual arts, critics such as Benois, Punin, and Tarabukin looked equally to Byzantium and to Russias Orthodox heritage as models of visuality and systems of thought alternative to and distinct from the cultural heritage of western Europe, models that they believed possessed the capacity to revitalize the hackneyed image world of modernity. For young Russian artists, not only did Byzantine and medieval Russian art provide a pictorial alternative to the pervasive salon painting still propagated by the European academies, but it also offered a formal and conceptual genealogy different from that of ascending French modernism, which in turn allowed the emergent Russian avant- garde to lay claim to complete originality and independence from its European contemporaries andby extensionto avoid the damning accusation of derivativeness. Indeed, following Matisses visit to Moscow in 1911, Russian commentators repeatedly claimed that the Frenchman had come to Russia to learn about modernismespecially from the countrys medieval artrather than to explain or expound on modernist practices to Russian audiences. More importantly, the Byzantine visual tradition offered artists, beyond purely pictorial affinities, new ontological, phenomenological, and philosophical possibilities for refiguring the modern artwork.Accordingly, moving beyond the examination of strictly stylistic influence or art- historical tendencies,The Icon and the Square: Russian Modernism and the Russo- Byzantine Revival analyzes a dense network of theological, political, aesthetic, and revivalist ideas and motivations, as well as the discursive spaces and artistic praxes that they engendered.

The term Russo- Byzantine is itself a cultural construction and for that reason is a fluid and multivalent designation. In the late nineteenth century scholars such as Nikodim Kondakov (18441925) and Dmitrii Ainalov (18621939) used this term with reference to a type of medieval art and architecture that was produced on Russian soil but manifested complete subjection to the Byzantine style. Accordingly, in his various publications, Kondakov went to great lengths to distinguish between Byzantine, Russo- Byzantine, and purely Russian pictorial languages, carefully attending to the minute variations in style and iconography.By contrast, during Nicholas Is reign (182555), the term Russo- Byzantine was applied to a hybrid

revivalist style, in nineteenth- century architecture and design, that drew on both Byzantine and medieval Russian prototypes. Popularized by architects such as Constantine Thon (17941881) and artists such as Timofei Neff and Fedor Solntsev (18011892), this style was interchangeably referred to as Byzantine, Neo- Byzantine, Russo- Byzantine, and even Neo- Russian throughout the second half of the nineteenth century, thus demonstrating the porous nature of these categories. More generally, the rediscoveries of Byzantium and medieval Rus could be said to constitute two sides of the same coin, which fit into the broader transnational category of romantic medieval revivalism that spread through Europe in the wake of the Napoleonic Wars. As a result, in multiple instances interest in Byzantium tended to stimulate and perpetuate interest in medieval Rus and vice versa.However, by the opening decades of the twentieth century and in no small part thanks to the pioneering work of Kondakov and his students, commentators began increasingly to differentiate between the Byzantine and ancient Russian, and the Neo- Byzantine and Neo- Russian classifications as discrete cultural, art- historical, and aesthetic categories. In addition to advances in archaeological and art- historical knowledge, rising nationalism played a significant role in the ideological recasting of the icon as a medieval masterpiece and a manifestation of a purely Russian artistic genius, especially in the wake of the Russo- Japanese War (19045) and as a response to the rising international tensions on the eve of World War I.Over the past forty years, the word Russo-Byzantine has been applied both to the early medieval Russian art and architecture produced under Byzantine tutelage and to the subsequent revivalist projects of the mid to late nineteenth century. More importantly, this designation has also come to be used as a broader signifier or shorthand for the Eastern Orthodox aesthetic canon, which comprises a multiplicity of different styles, schools, and iconographies but ultimately derives from medieval Byzantium and expresses similar spiritual, material, and ornamental values. In the present book, I employ the term Russo- Byzantine in this final, more expansive way to signify a discrete aesthetic, theological, and philosophical tradition that began in Byzantium and was subsequently elaborated in Russia and its neighboring territories and stood apart from the mainstream practices of western Europe. In doing so, I take my cue both from a number of early twentieth- century theorists such as Nikolai Tarabukin and from contemporary scholars such as Jane Sharp, who have all used the Russo- Byzantine designation similarly. Having said that, I nevertheless maintain a distinction between Byzantine and ancient Russian in instances where period commentators have made a conscious decision to emphasize these as separate artistic categories.

Also wanting definition as I use it is the term revival. Needless to say, the revivalist Russo-Byzantine cathedrals, erected in the nineteenth century, were not strictly speaking reconstructions of the medieval prototypes. Instead, they were heavily mediated by the aesthetics, tastes, and ideas of the period. Even ostensibly historically responsible restoration projects often tended toward a fictional reimagining of medieval monuments in their own nineteenth- century image. As such, the Russo- Byzantine revival was not simply an innocent recovery of a lost artistic tradition but an invested,purposeful, and contingent phenomenon. This is hardly surprising, given the broader pan- European

interest in resurrecting the artistic achievements of past epochs in the service of new aesthetic goals,

cultural needs, and political demands. In many ways, the long nineteenth century can be characterized as a succession of revivalist movements in art and architecture, the most well known of which include Jacques- Louis David and neoclassicism, the German and English Romantics and the Gothic Revival, and finally the Aesthetic and Symbolist movements and a renewed interest in Hellenism. However, many of these movements were not conservative or retrograde returns to past traditions and styles but radical protests against the prevailing tastes and artistic practices of a particular period. To state it slightly differently, revivalism was often deployed as a vanguard strategy for bringing about change and innovation in the visual and decorative arts.

[Excerpt ends here.]RBI panel favours hiking the minimum holding of promoters in pvt banks to 26 pc after 15 years from the present 15 pc.Egypt's Defence and Military Production Minister Mohamed Zaki met with his French, Greek and Cypriot counterparts Florence Parly, Panos Kammenos and Savvas Angelides, respectively, on the sidelines of the Egypt Defence Expo (EDEX 2018) in Cairo.

Zaki discussed the latest regional and international developments as well as enhancing military cooperation with the three countries.

The ministers hailed the well-organised exhibition, which is considered one of the most important military events in the Middle East, stressing the depth of the historical ties between Egypt and the countries participating in the event.

Meanwhile, the Chief-of-Staff of the Egyptian Armed Forces Mohamed Farid met with the chiefs-of-staff of the Jordanian, Greek, and Saudi armed forces during their visit to EDEX 2018.

The meetings were attended by a number of top brass and the military delegations accompanying the defence ministers and chiefs-of-staff.

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An Egyptian criminal court upheld on Monday an earlier court order to release well-known activist and blogger Wael Abbas and two others, turning down an appeal by the prosecution against the release order.

The court upheld the order to release Abbas, Walid El-Shobaky, and Momen Hassan under probationary measures, months after their arrest for "publishing false news and inciting against the state."

Abbas, 43, was arrested last May and charged by prosecutors of "publishing false news, information and statements with the aim of disturbing public peace and undermining trust in state institutions.

Abbas was one of the pioneering bloggers in Egypt in the 2000s with his 'Egyptian Awareness' blog, which fiercely criticised government policies during the rule of former Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak.

He was also a strong critic of the Muslim Brotherhood during the rule of ousted Islamist president Mohamed Morsi, and has also been a heavy critic of the current government.

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Dallas, TX -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/03/2018 --Complete Overhead Door Inc. is a renowned name when it comes to offering top quality products and installation services. The company provides sales, installation, and repair of electric openers and garage doors. Complete Overhead Door Inc. has quite a few years of experience in this field and is a family- operated and owned, completely insured and licensed company. The company is often considered as the first and last stop for class commercial and residential truck, garage, and roll-up doors and openers.



The garage door repair in Richardson and Rockwall Texas services offered by Complete Overhead Door Inc. is known to be of top quality. All the services are provided by workers who are highly trained, certified, experienced. Also, the company dispatches round the clock emergency service every day of the week; and they accept both Mastercard and Visa to make the life of people more suitable. Besides, the technicians are dispatched in completely stocked trucks, so that they can conclude most repairs immediately then and there.



At present, Complete Overhead Door Inc. serves the entire Dallas area together with Fort Worth, Richardson, Garland, Mesquite, Rowlett, Balch Springs, Highland Park, Rockwall, Allen, Plano, Addison, McKinney, Farmers Branch, Carrollton, Irving, North Dallas, Lewisville, Frisco, Lancaster, DeSoto and many other places.



The most interesting thing about Complete Overhead Door Inc. is that the professionals of this company can be reached easily on their phone numbers which are 817-482-1957 and on 972-412-6069. All the professionals here go through training and are experienced enough to offer the right guidance to the customers. To get a quote for garage door replacement in Carrollton and Coppell Texas, one has to either call on the phone numbers or can also visit their website. The customer care representatives here are always ready to assist the customers.



About Complete Overhead Door

Complete Overhead Door is a principal company that offers garage door replacement and repairing services for residential, industrial and commercial clients and offers sales and installation services too.South Korea slammed on Monday statements by Egyptian officials who suggested exporting stray dogs to the Asian country, describing the statements as displaying "major ignorance" about the countrys culture.

In an official press release, the South Korean embassy in Cairo responded to statements made in October by leading Egyptian MP Margaret Azer.

Azer had suggested that Egypt export stray dogs for meat consumption to countries like South Korea as a solution to the problem of stray dogs in Egypt.

Azer, the deputy of the human rights committee in parliament, told Ahram Online in a phone call following her controversial statements  which sparked anger by animal activists  that her suggestion was an alternative to shooting dogs or castrating them.

She said the idea of exporting the animals for consumption was made after discussion with a few South Koreans, and that this would be an investment opportunity for Egypt.

The embassy described the statements by Azer as defamatory of the South Korean people, and that the country has never imported dogs for meat consumption.

The statement added that the practice of eating dogs is declining in the country amid pressure from animal rights activists in South Korea.

Eating dog meat is not part of the countrys popular food culture, the statement said, urging the media not to publish news related to exporting stray dogs to the country.

Stray dogs and cats are common in Egypt, and many of the animals are often hit by cars or subjected to various forms of abuse.

The state has been attempting to find a solution in recent years, often resorting to killing the animals

The response from South Korea also comes nearly two weeks after a number of Egyptian officials claimed that the country would start exporting thousands of stray dogs and cats, without specifying which countries would be importing them. However, the agriculture ministry later released a statement denying the claims.

While there is no official data on the number of stray dogs in the country, Al-Watan newspaper said on Tuesday that the country is home to 22 million stray dogs, according to a study by Hamdy Arafa, a professor in local development and a consultancy expert on slums.

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GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK) announced the sale of Horlicks and other consumer healthcare nutrition brands to Unilever plc (UN, ULVR.L) and the merger of GSK Consumer Healthcare Limited with Hindustan Unilever Limited for a total consideration valued at approximately 3.1 billion.

GlaxoSmithKline expects net proceeds are estimated to be approximately 2.4 billion on the same basis. In India, Horlicks and other nutrition products are sold by GSK India, in which GSK holds a 72.5% stake. The merger values GSK India at INR317 billion in total, or INR7,540 per share.

Following proposed transaction, GSK will own approximately 5.7% of HUL. Following completion of the transaction, currently expected by the end of 2019, GSK plans to sell down its holding in HUL.

GSK expects to use proceeds to support its strategic priorities and reduce debt. The company expects this to be neutral to earnings.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business NewsOil prices rose over 4 percent on Monday as trade tensions eased and investors pinned hopes that crude exporters would agree to cut output at OPEC's policy meeting on December 6.

Global benchmark Brent crude jumped a little over 4 percent to $61.87 per barrel while U.S. crude futures traded higher by 4.4 percent at $53.17 per barrel.

U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to a 90-day truce on their escalating trade war during a weekend meeting in Argentina, helping ease investor concerns over slowing global growth.

Trump promised to suspend new tariffs on Chinese products, meaning that no additional tariffs will be imposed after January 1.

As part of the deal, China will increase its purchase of American farm produce, energy and some industrial goods so as to reduce the trade deficit between the two countries.

Producer club OPEC meets this week, with analysts expecting an output cut by 500,000 barrels a day amid concerns of a supply glut and demand slowdown.

Oil prices also found support from an announcement by the Canadian province of Alberta that there would be an industrywide 8.7 percent cut in oil output to deal with the supply glut.

Meanwhile, the tiny, wealthy Persian Gulf state of Qatar said today it would pull out of Saudi-dominated OPEC in January and focus on its gas industry.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Market AnalysisCanadian shares look headed for buoyant start on Monday, with investors reacting to news about the U.S. and China agreeing to a 90-day truce on their escalating trade war. Higher crude oil and gold prices are expected to further boost investor sentiment.

The U.S. and China agreed on Sunday to refrain from increasing tariffs. Accordingly, the U.S. will not raise tariffs on Chinese goods to 25%, from the existing 10%. China, for its part, has agreed to buy more agricultural, energy, industrial and other products from the U.S. to narrow its trade gap with the U.S.

At 9:30 AM ET, a report on manufacturing activity in Canada in the month of November will be out.

On Friday, the benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index ended up 3.78 points, or 0.02%, at 15,197.82. The index scaled a low of 15,125.42 and a high of 15,214.25 in the session.

In company news, Canopy Growth Corporation (WEED.TO) announced today that it has entered into two agreements with 48North Cannabis Corp. (TSXV: NRTH) a strategic investment financing and partnership and a supply agreement. Under the Supply Agreement, 48North will supply Canopy Growth with dried cannabis grown at 48North's wholly-owned facility, DelShen Therapeutics Corp.

Equitable Group Inc. (EQB.TO) announced it has reached an agreement to acquire Bennington Financial Services Corp, a profitable and growing privately owned company serving the brokered equipment leasing market in Canada.

Canadian Pacific (CP.TO) announced that it has reached a tentative, four-year agreement with Unifor.

Markets in Asia ended on a high note and European were surging higher as well, as trade tension eased and worries about global economic growth subsided a bit after U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to a 90-day truce on their escalating trade war.

Investors now look ahead to the debate on the Brexit deal before a final vote in Parliament on December 11.

In economic releases from Eurozone, a report from IHS markit showed eurozone's manufacturing growth slowed less-than-expected in November, amid marginal growth in output and weak confidence. The manufacturing purchasing managers' index fell to 51.8, the lowest since August 2016, from 52 in October. The flash reading was 51.5.

Meanwhile, U.K. manufacturing growth recovered from a 27-month low in November on the back of a rise in domestic new orders and stock-building, a survey showed. IHS Markit's Purchasing Managers Index for the industry rose to 53.1 from 51.1 in October.

On U.S. economic data front, a report on construction spending for the month of October, the ISM Manufacturing survey report for November and manufacturing prices for November are due at 10 AM ET.

Markets will also react to speeches from Federal Reserve Governor Randal Quaries and Fed New York President John Williams.

In commodities, crude oil futures for January were rising $2.02, or nearly 4%, at $52.95 a barrel.

Natural gas futures for January were declining by $0.271, or 5.90%, at $4.342 per million btu.

Gold futures for February were up $8.50, or 0.7%, at $1,234.50 an ounce.

Silver futures for March were rising $0.273, or 1.9%, at $14.490 an ounce, while Copper futures for March were up $0.0.47, or 1.7%, at $2.834 per pound.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business NewsThe Smashing Pumpkins performed a cover of The Cars' "Dangerous Type" with Rise Against frontman Tim McIlrath Friday evening.

Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan supported McIlrath by playing guitar and singing the chorus to the classic track.

The Smashing Pumpkins played in their hometown of Chicago Friday night as part of their ongoing 30th anniversary tour in support of the new album Shiny and Oh So Bright, Vol. 1.

The band already dropped three singles from the album -- "Silvery Sometimes (Ghosts)," "Solara," and "Knights of Malta."

Meanwhile, Billy Corgan announced that he plans to record a Christmas album with the Smashing Pumpkins after the conclusion of their US tour.

"I also have an inkling to try and get us to do a Christmas record one day, so I might try to use the Christmas spirit to put the record together in concept, even if we're not ready to record it," he told USA Today recently.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Entertainment NewsThe European ended the first session of the new trading week firmly in positive territory. Traders reacted positively to the news that U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to a 90-day truce in the escalating trade war between the two countries over the weekend.

The news sparked a rally in shares of bank stocks, miners and automakers. Luxury goods companies also climbed on the news.

A White House statement said Trump agreed not to raise the tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to 25 percent from 10 percent on January 1st as planned.

In return, China agreed to purchase a "not yet agreed upon, but very substantial, amount" of agricultural, energy, industrial, and other product from the U.S.

The White House said the U.S. and China will use the next 90 days to attempt to reach an agreement on issues such as forced transfer, intellectual property protection, and non-tariff barriers.

The pan-European Stoxx Europe 600 index advanced 1.04 percent. The Euro Stoxx 50 index of eurozone blue chip stocks increased 1.33 percent, while the Stoxx Europe 50 index, which includes some major U.K. companies, added 0.73 percent.

The DAX of Germany climbed 1.85 percent and the CAC of France rose 1.00 percent. The FTSE 100 of the U.K. gained 1.18 percent and the SMI of Switzerland finished higher by 0.76 percent.

In Frankfurt, BMW climbed 4.83 percent, Daimler rose 4.36 percent and Volkswagen advanced 2.60 percent after China agreed to slash auto import tariffs.

In London, Standard Chartered jumped 3.15 percent on a Bloomberg report that the bank is cutting jobs in Dubai and key markets including Singapore as it looks to curb expenses.

Drug major Novartis advanced 0.40 percent in Zurich after the U.S. FDA accepted its Biologics License Application for AVXS-101, now known as ZOLGENSMA, an investigational gene replacement therapy for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy.

Eurozone's manufacturing growth slowed less-than-expected in November, amid marginal growth in output and weak confidence, and was the lowest since August 2016, final data from IHS Markit showed on Monday.

The manufacturing purchasing managers' index fell to 51.8 from 52 in October. The flash reading was 51.5.

UK manufacturing growth improved in November, but activity remained subdued amid a second consecutive month of decline in export orders, though domestic demand increased as Brexit worries prompted clients to stock up on supplies.

The CIPS manufacturing purchasing managers index rose to 53.1 from October's 27-month low of 51.1, survey data from IHS Markit showed on Monday. Economists had forecast a score of 51.7.

The manufacturing sector in China accelerated slightly in November, the latest survey from Caixin revealed on Monday with a manufacturing PMI score of 50.2. That exceeded expectations for a score of 50.1, which would have been unchanged from the October reading.

Manufacturing activity in the U.S. unexpectedly grew at a faster rate in the month of November, according to a report released by the Institute for Supply Management on Monday.

The ISM said its purchasing managers index climbed to 59.3 in November after falling to 57.7 in October, with a reading above 50 indicating growth in manufacturing activity. Economists had expected the index to edge down to 57.5.

With a drop in spending on private construction more than offsetting an increase in spending on public construction, the Commerce Department released a report on Monday showing an unexpected dip in U.S. construction spending in the month of October.

The Commerce Department said construction spending edged down by 0.1 percent to an annual rate of $1.309 trillion in October after slipping by 0.1 percent to a downwardly revised rate of $1.311 trillion in September.

The modest decrease came as surprise to economists, who had expected construction spending to rise by 0.3 percent compared to the nearly unchanged reading originally reported for the previous month.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Market AnalysisShares of Cirrus Logic Inc. (CRUS) slipped 6% on Monday's extended session after the company lowered its revenue outlook for the third quarter due to "recent weaknesses in the smartphone market."

The company now expects third-quarter revenues of $300 million and $340 million, down from previous forecast of $360 million and $400 million. Analysts polled by Thomson Reuters expected revenues of $368.34 million.

The company expects gross margin is expected to be between 49 and 51% and combined R&D and SG&A expenses are expected to range between $118 million and $124 million.

CRUS closed Monday's trading at $38.67, up $1.23 or 3.29%, on the Nasdaq. The stock, however, slipped $2.32 or 6.00% in the after-hours trade.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business NewsPresident discusses with Communications Minister challenges facing communication sector [03/December/2018] SANAA, Dec. 3 (Saba) - President Mehdi Al-Mashat discussed on Monday with Minister of Communications and Information Technology Eng. Mesfer Al-Nimair the workflow in the telecommunications sector and the difficulties facing this sector as a result of the aggression and siege imposed by the Saudi aggression coalition war waged on Yemen.



The meeting touched on the plans of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, its institutions and bodies for the coming period to upgrade telecommunications services.



The meeting also touched on the achievements of the Ministry during the past period and efforts to overcome the difficulties caused by the targeting of the Saudi-led aggression coalition to the infrastructure of telecommunications sector.





AA

SabaThe Saudi-led coalition said it approved evacuating wounded Houthi fighters for treatment on Monday, meeting a key condition for the group to attend U.N.-sponsored peace talks in Sweden this week aimed at ending Yemens nearly four-year-old war.

Prospects for convening talks have increased as Western allies press Saudi Arabia, leader of the Sunni Muslim alliance battling the Iranian-aligned Houthis, over a war that has killed more than 10,000 people and pushed Yemen to the brink of famine.

The talks could start on Wednesday, two sources familiar with the matter said, after U.N. special envoy Martin Griffiths shuttled between the parties to salvage a previous round that collapsed in September after the Houthis failed to show up.

The coalition agreed to a U.N. request to facilitate the evacuation of 50 wounded Houthis for humanitarian considerations and as part of confidence-building measures ahead of the talks, spokesman Turki al-Malki said.

A U.N. commercial plane would land in the Houthi-held capital Sanaa on Monday to transport them to Oman, along with three doctors, he said in a statement.

The Houthis have said they would head to Sweden once the wounded were evacuated and if their delegations plane was not inspected by the coalition. The group has agreed to travel on a plane provided by Kuwait, a source familiar with the talks said.

The Saudi-backed government has said it would follow the Houthis for the consultations, the first since 2016, which are also due to focus on a transitional governing body.

If the parties actually turn up in Sweden ... that in itself must be considered progress, even if there are no concrete outcomes, said Elisabeth Kendall, a senior research fellow in Arabic and Islamic Studies at Oxford University.

Neither side wishes to be blamed for the dire consequences of the looming famine, which is starting to become a reality, she said. But it remains to be seen whether the political will is really there to make the necessary concessions for peace.

Some 8.4 million Yemenis are facing starvation, although the United Nations has warned that will likely rise to 14 million. Three-quarters of impoverished Yemens population, or 22 million people, require aid.

The alliance intervened in the war in 2015 to restore the internationally recognized government of Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi but has faced military stalemate, despite superior air power, since seizing the southern port city of Aden that year.

The Houthis, who are more adept at guerrilla warfare, hold most population centers including Sanaa and the port city of Hodeidah, a lifeline for millions that is now a focus of the war.

Griffiths hopes to reach a deal on reopening Sanaa airport and securing a prisoner swap and a ceasefire in Hodeidah as a foundation for a wider truce, including a halt to coalition air strikes that have killed thousands of civilians and Houthi missile attacks on Saudi cities.

The group had agreed to hand over management of Hodeidah port, the entry point for most of Yemens commercial imports and vital aid supplies, to the United Nations but both sides are at odds over who should control the Red Sea city.

The coalition, which has previously called on the Houthis to entirely quit Hodeidah, last month renewed an offensive on the city to weaken the movement by severing their main supply line.

Fighting has abated amid renewed U.N. peace efforts and as aid groups warn that a full-scale assault may trigger a famine.

A British push for the U.N. Security Council to take action on the humanitarian crisis has slowed because several member states are wary of impeding the peace talks.

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President al-Mashat discusses with Civil Service Minister improving administrative work [03/December/2018] SANAA, Dec. 3 (Saba) - President Mahdi al-Mashat met on Monday with Minister of Civil Service and Insurance Talal Aklan.



During the meeting, they discussed the workflow in the ministry and efforts exerted to improve the administrative performance of the government as well as the mechanism to strengthen the functional discipline in the state institutions to ensure implementation of the tasks entrusted to them.



The meeting touched on the results of the field visits paid by teams of control and inspection to the central and local authority units and the evaluation of the level of performance and compliance with the regulations and laws in this regard.



The President stressed the importance of sensing the employees of the public sector and mixed for their role in this extraordinary stage through of which goes the country, of continue providing of services to citizens and strengthen steadfastness in the face of attack launched by the US-backed Saudi-led aggression coalition on Yemen.



He pointed out that the presence of employees in their work represents a picture of steadfastness, which foiled the schemes of aggression aiming to disrupt the state institutions.



He stressed the support of the Political leadership and Government for the Ministry and its efforts to implement its current and future plans, especially in improving the level of job performance at different levels as well as developing the capacities of cadres in the state institutions



Aklan said t that his ministry and its offices aim ,through the field visits of theirs teams, to assess the level of discipline in all the institutions of state.



He referred to the measures aimed at raising the efficiency of performance, improving administrative work, addressing problems in some departments, in addition to continuing training programs and job qualification.





AA

Saba

A police inspector was killed in Bulandshahr district in Uttar Pradesh on Monday after violence broke out in the aftermath of an alleged case of cow slaughter, police said. Senior police officials have rushed to the crime scene to contain the violence, which threatens peace in the entire region.



According to information here, members of several Hindu groups with an alleged cow carcass gathered on the Bulandshahr-Syana road and pelted stones at the police personnel.



The Hindu Yuva Vahini and Bajrang Dal activists also vandalized vehicles and attacked police officials. They torched several passing vehicles.



In the violence, Inspector Subodh Singh of Syana police station and four constables were injured. The profusely bleeding inspector was rushed to the Aurangabad community health centre (CHC) where he was pronounced dead on arrival.



District Magistrate Anuj Jha confirmed the death of the police officer.



Cabinet has given approval for the Governments investment arm Unit Trust of Samoa (UTOS) to fund the building of a new High Commission chancery for Samoa in Wellington, New Zealand.

The building project will start next year and will cost UTOS approximately $25 million.

The Cabinets decision was announced by the Minister for Finance, Sili Epa Tuioti, when he gave the keynote address at the annual general meeting of the State-owned investment arm last Friday.

Sili also spoke on Governments plans to provide opportunities to ensure that UTOS continues to grow for the benefit of Samoans. Some of these opportunities included the investment in shares of the Samoa Submarine Cable Company Ltd and the financing of the Malo Samoa Centre in Auckland, New Zealand.

The Minister said the Government is keen to grow the number of overseas and local-based Samoan investors at UTOS. The total number of unit holders at the UTOS is currently 2263 with those present at the AGM urged to encourage families and friends to invest and reap the benefits for the families.

He also stressed to the unit holders, the importance of investing funds in UTOS for a term of three or more years to get the maximum return on their funds. These returns include dividends that are paid annually to the unit holders and capital gains. The initial unit price in 2010 was .97 sene and it has grown steadily over the years with a current prevailing price of $1.61. The main aim of the Unit Trust is to build economic growth for a better future; focusing on long term investments in order to realise a high return to unit holders on their investments.

A tribute was also made to the former UTOS Chief Executive Officer, late Sau Justina Sau-Lam, with the Minister describing her as a valuable leader who contributed immensely to the organisation as the founding CEO.German cruise ship AIDAaura docked at Matautu wharf in Apia yesterday morning.

The visit of the ship to Samoa makes it four in the last month, confirming Samoa as a population destination for cruise tourism operators around the world.

Passengers from the vessel disembarked and filled the streets of Apia town to sightsee, while the adventurous ones booked tours to explore more of Upolu.

The ship had 1100 passengers and a 500-strong crew member with most of the tourists from Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.

AIDAaura departed Hamburg city in Germany on October 8 for a 117-days around-the-world cruise, and is scheduled to visit 41 ports in 20 countries on four continents, and concludes the tour on February 2 next year.

Apart from Germany the cruise ship has also visited Spain, Portugal, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina and Samoa in the Pacific Islands. The ship left Samoa around 6pm yesterday for its next Pacific Islands destination, Fiji.

AIDA is Europe's largest German cruise line company and targets younger and more active travelers.Supreme Court Judge Mata Tuatagaloa has asked whether the Samoa Law Society (SLS) can show compassion to a lawyer whose practicing license has been suspended.

Pau Mulitalo had his practicing license suspended seven months ago for allegedly breaching the Lawyers and Legal Practitioners Act. But he has challenged the decision by the society in Court.

Appearing before the Court recently, the societys lawyer Sala Josephine Stowers advised that the SLS has two requirementswhich Pau will need to meetin order to get a restricted practicing license. The first requirement is that the appellant should provide proof that he is able to work for a law firm. However, the second requirement was not divulged during the Court proceeding and remains unclear.

However, Pau submitted that there is a conflict of interest on the part of the societys lawyer Sala.

Justice Tuatagaloa then told Pau that the society has asked the suspended lawyer to present the information needed in order for them to consider his application for a restricted practicing license.

When the Judge asked Sala whether the delay by the society is due to the lack of the required information, Sala agreed and advised that the appellant is yet to provide the information required.

If Mulitalo is finding difficulty to provide that information, someone to supervise him or a firm to work for. How else will the Samoa Law Society be handing this case, does the Samoa Law Society have compassion for this member?

He is seeking a restricted license to practice and just so happen that he cannot find a law firm that can employ him. Are there any conditions for such cases? the Judge added.

Justice Tuatagaloa told Sala that he should go back to the committee of the Samoa Law Society and ask them to reconsider and also urged Mulitalo to consider providing the required information sought.

The committee to look still waiting for you to provide the information they are seeking for, the process is still there and meanwhile you should consider the information they are asking for, she said.

The Judge reserved her decision on the matter and will hand down a ruling at a later date.New Zealand has joined Australia in rejecting Huaweis bid to build a 5G network.

The Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB) blocked Huaweis offer to provide the technology to Spark in a decision revealed last Wednesday.

According to Andrew Little, the New Zealand minster for the GCSB, any installation of 5G technology has potential security implications, according to a report by stuff.co.nz and would not elaborate further.

When Australia made a similar decision earlier this year, it was attributed to national security concerns.

CNBC reports Mike Burgess, director general of the Australian Signals Directorate (Australias intelligence agency) said Chinese telecommunications carriers are high-risk vendors.

"5G technology will underpin the communications that Australians rely on every day, from our health systems and the potential applications of remote surgery, to self-driving cars and through to the operation of our power and water supply. The stakes could not be higher," Burgess said.

Here in Samoa, Huawei has partnerships with Bluesky and Digicel, deploying 4 and 4.5G networks across the country.

Chief executive officer Toleafoa Tiafau Douglas Creevey said so far, Huawei is fully compliant with Samoas regulations and its technology is industry leading, so Bluesky will continue to work with it.

As far as we know, we dont have the required evidence or information on those national security concerns.

We are listening closely for further information and to see what comes out of those blocks in New Zealand and Australia, Toleafoa said.

As to whether Bluesky would consider investing in, or blocking an offer to develop a 5G network, Toleafoa said that is still too far away.

5G is still in its design phases, and that decision would have to be made in conjunction with the regulator, he said.

At this stage, we are fully satisfied with our network.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Dr Sailele Malielegaoi would not confirm whether he would follow New Zealand and Australias lead.

We already have Huawei here, which was behind a project we built and they are very good.

Responding to whether he would consider stopping the Chinese telecom from building a 5G network, Tuilaepa said he would respond when the situation arose.

The United States has also banned Huawei from selling equipment for security reasons.

Samoas regulator, Lefaoali'i Unutoa Auelua-Fonoti also said she had not seen evidence to back up the concerns expressed by the other countries.

I would be very concerned if I did see evidence, but I havent seen it yet, she said.

Its certainly something to look into.

Digicel chief executive officer Farid Mohammed said he would seek responses to questions from his global leadership team.HONG KONG (AP)  Early last year, a little-known Chinese researcher turned up at an elite meeting in Berkeley, California, where scientists and ethicists were discussing a technology that had shaken the field to its core  an emerging tool for "editing" genes, the strings of DNA that form the blueprint of life.

The young scientist, He Jiankui, saw the power of this tool, called CRISPR, to transform not only genes, but also his own career.

In visits to the United States, he sought out CRISPR pioneers such as Jennifer Doudna of the University of California, Berkeley, and Stanford University's Dr. Matthew Porteus, and big thinkers on its use, like Stanford ethicist Dr. William Hurlbut.

Last week, those shocked researchers watched as He hijacked an international conference they helped organize with an astonishing claim: He said he helped make the world's first gene-edited babies , despite clear scientific consensus that making genetic changes that could be passed to future generations should not be attempted at this point .

U.S. National Institutes of Health Director Francis Collins called He's experiment "a misadventure of a major sort"  starring "a scientist who apparently believed that he was a hero. In fact, he crossed every line, scientifically and ethically."

But nobody stopped him. How can that be?

To be fair, scientists say there's no certain way to stop someone intent on monkeying with DNA, no matter what laws or standards are in place. CRISPR is cheap and easy to use  which is why scientists began to worry almost as soon as the technology was invented that something like this would happen.

And there is a long history in science and medicine of researchers launching experiments prematurely that were met with scorn or horror  some of which led to what are now common practices, such as in-vitro fertilization.

Gene-editing for reproductive purposes is effectively banned in the U.S. and most of Europe. In China, ministerial guidelines prohibit embryo research that "violates ethical or moral principles."

It turns out He wasn't exactly tight-lipped about his goals . He pursued international experts at Stanford and Rice Universities, where he had done graduate studies work, and elsewhere, seeking advice before and during the experiment.

Should scientists who knew of He's plans have spoken up? Could they have dissuaded him?

The answers aren't clear.

"It doesn't fall into the category of legal responsibility, but ethical responsibility," said Collins. He said that not speaking up "doesn't seem like a scientist taking responsibility."

China's National Commission of Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences and He's own university have said they were in dark and have since condemned him .

But three Stanford scientists  Hurlbut, Porteus and He's former fellowship adviser, Stephen Quake  had extensive contact with him over the last few years. They and other scientists knew or strongly suspected that He intended to try to make genetically edited babies.

Some confidantes didn't think He would follow through; others raised concerns that were never heeded.

Stanford has not responded to an interview request.

Quake, a bioengineering professor, was one of the first to know about He's ambition. Quake said he had met with He through the years whenever his former student was in town, and that He confided his interest a few years ago in editing embryos for live births to try to make them resistant to the AIDS virus.

Quake said he gave He only general advice and encouraged him to talk with mainstream scientists, to choose situations where there's consensus that the risks are justified, to meet the highest ethics standards and to publish his results in a peer-reviewed journal.

"My advice was very broad," Quake said.

Hurlbut thinks he first met He in early 2017, when he and Doudna, co-inventor of CRISPR, held the first of three meetings with leading scientists and ethicists to discuss the technology.

"Somehow, he ended up at our meeting," Hurlbut said.

Since then, He returned several times to Stanford, and Hurlbut said he "spent many hours" talking with He about situations where gene editing might be appropriate.

Four or five weeks ago, Hurlbut said He came to see him again and discussed embryo gene editing to try to prevent HIV. Hurlbut said he suspected He had tried to implant a modified embryo in a woman's womb.

"I admonished him," he said. "I didn't green-light his work. I challenged him on it. I didn't approve of what he was doing."

Porteus said he knew that He had been talking with Hurlbut and assumed Hurlbut discouraged the Chinese scientist. In February, He asked to meet with Porteus and told him he had gotten approval from a hospital ethics board to move forward.

"I think he was expecting me to be more receptive, and I was very negative," Porteus said. "I was angry at his naivete, I was angry at his recklessness."

Porteus said he urged He "to go talk to your senior Chinese colleagues."

After that meeting, "I didn't hear from him and assumed he would not proceed," Porteus said. "In retrospect, I could have raised a hue and cry."

In a draft article about the gene-edited twin girls, which He planned to submit to journals, he thanked UC Berkeley biophysicist Mark DeWitt for "editing the manuscript." DeWitt said he tried to dissuade He and disputed that he edited the paper. He said he saw the paper, but the feedback he offered was "pretty general."

He's claims, including that his work has resulted in a second pregnancy , cannot be independently confirmed and his work has not been published. He defended his actions last week at a gene editing summit in Hong Kong.

In contrast, another U.S. scientist said he not only encouraged He but played a large role in the project.

Michael Deem, a bioengineering professor at Rice University and He's doctoral degree adviser, said he had worked with He since the scientist returned to China around 2012, and that he sits on the advisory boards and holds "a small stake" in He's two genetics companies in Shenzhen. Deem defended He's actions, saying the research team did earlier experiments on animals.

"We have multiple generations of animals that were genetically edited and produced viable offspring," and a lot of research on unintended effects on other genes, Deem said. Deem also said he was present in China when some study participants gave their consent to try embryo gene editing.

Rice said it had no knowledge of Deem's involvement and is now investigating.

So far most of the attention has focused on regulatory gaps in China.

But that's not the whole story, said Rosario Isasi, an expert on genomics law in the U.S. and China at the University of Miami.

"Let's focus on how it happened and why it happened, and the way it happened," said Isasi. "How can we establish a system that has better transparency?"

There's no international governing body to enforce bioethics rules, but scientific bodies and universities can use other tools.

"If someone breaks those rules, scientists can ostracize, journals can refuse to publish, employers can refuse to employ, funders can refuse to fund," said Hank Greely, a professor of law and genetics at Stanford.

Greely expects He's experiment will have ripple effects in academia, whether or not regulators act. "Universities are going to take a harder look at what's going on. This incident will put everyone on alert about any related research."

Of course, sometimes bad beginnings can turn into better endings.

In 1980, University of California, Los Angeles, professor Martin Cline was sanctioned for performing the first gene therapy on two women in Israel and Italy because he hadn't gotten approval to try it at UCLA.

Cline announced his work rather than publishing it in a scientific journal, and faced criticism for trying "genetic engineering" on people when its safety and effectiveness hadn't yet been established in animals. Now gene therapy is an established, although still fairly novel, treatment method.

Two years earlier, in 1978, Dr. Robert Edwards was similarly denounced when he announced through the press the world's first "test tube baby," Louise Brown. The work later earned a Nobel Prize, and IFV has helped millions to have a child.

And this year, Louise Brown  mother of two sons, conceived in the old-fashioned way  turned 40.ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP)  The magnitude 7.0 earthquake that rattled Alaska's largest city cracked roads and collapsed highway ramps, but there were no reports of widespread catastrophic damage or collapsed buildings.

There's a good reason for that.

A devastating 1964 Alaska earthquake  the most powerful on record in the United States  led to stricter building codes that helped structures withstand the shifting earth Friday.

"Congratulations to the people of Alaska for being really prepared for this earthquake," U.S. Geological Survey Geophysicist Paul Caruso said Saturday. "Because a magnitude 7.0 in a city like that, you know, it could have been significantly worse."

Gov. Bill Walker said sometimes people, including himself, grouse about stringent building codes. But he's "really glad" they were in place as he only had minor water damage at his home.

"Building codes mean something," he said Friday.

The quake was centered about 7 miles (12 kilometers) north of Anchorage, which has a population of about 300,000. People ran from their offices or took cover under desks. A 5.7 aftershock arrived within minutes, followed by a series of smaller quakes.

The two big back-to-back quakes knocked items off shelves, disrupted power, broke store windows and briefly triggered a tsunami warning for islands and coastal areas south of the city. Walker issued a disaster declaration, and President Donald Trump declared an emergency, allowing the Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate disaster relief.

There were no reports of deaths or serious injuries.

Still, aftershocks Saturday continued to fray nerves, with people worrying about being caught in more massive shakers.

"They're disturbing, and I'm not putting anything away that could fall until they calm down," Randall Cavanugh, an Anchorage attorney, said following a restless night at home. "I kept waking up."

By mid-morning, there had been about 550 aftershocks, including 11 with magnitudes of 4.5 or greater, Caruso said.

The aftershocks should be weaker and less frequent in the coming days, but officials can't say for sure when they'll stop, he said.

Anchorage Mayor Ethan Berkowitz said the extent of damage was "relatively small" considering the scale of Friday's earthquake. He also credited building codes for minimizing structure damage.

"In terms of a disaster, I think it says more about who we are than what we suffered," he said Saturday at a press briefing, adding that Anchorage was prepared for such an emergency.

"People pulled together. We followed the plans that were in place. We looked after one another. And when people around the country and around the world look at this, they're going to say, 'We want to do things in the Anchorage way because Anchorage did this right," Berkowitz said.

After the first earthquake, Alaska's largest hospital activated its incident command center, but the trickle of patients into the emergency room at Providence Alaska Medical Center in Anchorage was more like a normal workday and not a mass casualty event. The injuries were described as minor, and there were no patients with life-threatening conditions.

"The flow of patients into the emergency department was similar to a typical Monday," hospital spokesman Mikal Canfield said Saturday. "It wasn't a situation where there was a mass rush of people."

Roads didn't fare so well, as reports of extensive damage came in. The Alaska Department of Transportation counted about 50 sites with damage, including eight considered major. Most of the damage was to highways north of Anchorage. The agency also was planning to conduct bridge inspections Saturday.

Transportation officials said in a release that the aftershocks continue to contribute to settling and additional cracking. Rock falls exacerbated by the aftershocks were causing some problems on the Seward Highway south of Anchorage.

Normal operations resumed at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport after flight operations were suspended Friday, Transportation Department spokesman Meadow Bailey told The Associated Press.

The 800-mile (1,287-kilometer) trans Alaska oil pipeline was shut down for hours while crews were sent to inspect it for damage. Michelle Egan with Alyeska Pipeline Service Co., the pipeline operator, said the line was restarted at 3:30 p.m. Friday. She said there are no obvious signs of damage and no operational impact on the pipeline, whose closest section is 120 miles (193 kilometers) from the epicenter.

Anchorage's school system canceled classes through Tuesday while it examined buildings for damage.

Alaska's 1964 earthquake, with a 9.2 magnitude, was centered about 75 miles (120 kilometers) east of Anchorage. It and the tsunami it triggered claimed about 130 lives.

The state averages 40,000 earthquakes a year, with more large quakes than the 49 other states combined. Southern Alaska has a high risk of earthquakes because the Earth's plates slide past each other under the region, but it is rare for major quakes to strike so close heavily populated areas.It is only Tuesday but the week has got off to a flurry, thanks to the school and college graduations which kicked off yesterday to usher in the last month of the year.

Not sure if readers have seen a trend in our coverage of school and college graduations since last week, some of Samoas top performing students come from families that went through challenging times. But that did not hold back the students, who used the tough times as a springboard to academic success.

Early last week the dux of Chanel College, Talalupelele Tolovaa, dedicated her academic success to her mother, who raised her singlehandedly with the support of her family. Towards the end of last week, Daniel Koria from the village of Lalovaea was announced the 2018 Year 13 valedictorian of the Seventh Day Adventist College. His father Eteuati Koria, who was the principal of the same college, died in September this year.

In the other side of town, Talitakumi Faletolu Fiti was announced the dux of Wesley College, and she dedicated her award to her parents, especially her father who was ill.

In todays edition we read the story of 19-year-old Lalotea Maggie Bernard, who was announced the Year 13 dux at Maluafou College. She dedicated her achievement to her late father Peter Bernard, her mother Antonina Bernard and her extended family members.

And what about the story of Janola Muriel Tofilau, also in todays edition of the Samoa Observer, who is the Year 13 valedictorian for the St Mary College. Her father was diagnosed with a heart condition, compelling her mother to become the familys sole provider to the family.

There are other students that we could have missed in this years school and college graduation ceremonies, who have also risen above adversity and used their family challenges to push themselves to succeed.

We can only take off our hats to the strong-willed mother or father or both for pushing their children to excel academicallyright there are the building blocks of Samoas next generation being put in place, and molded and nurtured to prepare them for the future.

We can all draw inspiration from the work ethic of these young people, and perhaps be thankful that here is a group of Samoans, who feel and see the pain of their loved ones and are determined to succeed in life.

To those who did not make the cut in terms of academic excellence at the end of the academic year, well, it is not the end of the road. Often, champions are born out of the many stops they have to make in life, in order to arrive at their final destination.

It is finishing students, who are in the middle to the bottom rung of the academic performance tree, that should become the focus of the Governments education policy. Where do they fit in the national education policy and how does the Government plan to address the increasing number of students in the formal education system dropping out without any further educational opportunities?

It is a phenomenon that is not only affecting Samoa but other Pacific Island nations. We note the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat endorsing the Pacific Regional Education Framework, Moving Towards Education 2030 (PacREF) which prioritises actions in four key policy areas; Quality and Relevance, Learning Pathways, Student Outcomes and Wellbeing, and Teacher Professionalism. These policy areas lie at the core of the challenges currently being experienced in the region.

The PacREF promotes a human rights approach to education and seeks to empower Pacific Islanders to fully enjoy, without barriers, the benefits of education. It recognises the disadvantages faced by some groups and communities in accessing opportunities to education. Some of these vulnerable groups include girls, young women, youth, persons with disabilities, rural and outer island communities and minority groups.

The above regional framework augurs well for a region, where there are more young people under the age of 25, becoming more disenfranchised and frustrated at the lack of educational opportunities, and full-time employment in their respective countries.

With a population of less than 200,000 people coupled with a good track record in human development indicators, Samoa is perhaps in a better position to address some of these growing concernsunlike some of their Pacific Island nation neighbours.

What do you think? Have a wonderful Tuesday Samoa and God bless.The Chinese medical team currently working in Samoa have performed medical procedures that were never done before.

The complicated life-saving medical procedures include craniotomythe surgical removal of part of the bone from the skull to expose the brainin order to save the life of a young Samoan boy who was fatally injured in an accident.

Chinese Ambassador to Samoa, Wang Xuefeng, said it was the first time for the medical procedure to be done in Samoa.

For example, Dr. Hong Xinyu, a neurosurgeon, successfully conducted the first ever craniotomy in medical history in Samoa, saving the life of a young boy who was fatally injured in an accident, he said after officiating recently at a ceremony, where his government donated $500,000 tala worth of medicines and equipment, to the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Wang Jinguo, a urologist, also did transurethral resection of prostate surgeries for a number of male patients, which the Chinese Ambassador said freed them of urinary problems.

Dr. Wang Jinguo, a urologist, conducted transurethral Resection of Prostate surgeries so that many patients who had to live on indwelling urinary catheter can now live a normal life without the burden of that condition.

Mr. Xuefeng said the others such as cardiologist Dr. Zhang Zhiguo, ophthalmologist Dr. Wang Le, endocrinologist Dr. Gang Xiaokun and orthopedist Dr. Qi Baochang were also doing a good job as medical professionals, which has led to them attending to many patients in Samoa. He said the objective behind the engagement of the Chinese medical team is to build capacity, exchange, share and transfer knowledge and skills to Samoa medical professionals at major departments in the hospital.

An agreement currently exists between the Governments of Samoa and China, where China will provide a certain amount of medicine, equipment and a medical team to the Samoan Government.

Since 1980s, the Chinese government has started sending medical teams to Samoa to provide voluntary medical services to Samoan people. Up to now, altogether nearly 100 medical professionals of 15 medical teams have worked in various hospitals and clinics in Samoa.

The current group of the 15th Medical team comprises of six medical professionals respectively from the Department of Neurosurgery, Urology, Traumatic Orthopedics, Cardiology, Ophthalmology and Endocrinology, he said.

In the past four months, members of the Chinese medical team have worked in collaboration with Samoan doctors and nurses to provide medical services to Samoan patients.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels later on Monday, the prime ministers office said in a statement.

It said the meeting was arranged last week and that developments in the region would be discussed, although it did not provide details. Pompeo is an outspoken critic of Irans nuclear program and he condemned on Saturday the latest missile test by the Islamic republic.

Netanyahu often uses meetings with international officials to push his agenda of halting Irans nuclear ambitions. Israel also sees Tehrans moves to set up bases in neighboring Syria as a regional threat.

Netanyahu will be accompanied by the head of the Mossad spy agency, the Israeli national security adviser and his military attache, the statement said.

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Lalotea Maggie Bernard is the Year 13 dux at Maluafou College in the 2018 academic year.

The 19-year-old from Saleaumua, Aleipata currently studies science and took first place in Samoan studies, religious knowledge, mathematics and chemistry.

She dedicated her achievement to her late father Peter Bernard, mother Antonina Bernard and her extended family members.

I cannot seem to find the right words to explain how happy and proud I am. Living a life without a father was hard but a loving mother on my side was more than enough.

I cannot thank my family enough as well for all the love and care that they have shown me since day one until this very special day of life she said.

Lalotea told Samoa Observer that every battles had its own challenges.

The passing away of my father was my greatest challenge in life and not only that, but also the technology that most of us students cannot resist.

As a secondary student, it was hard to ignore the distractions of social media and devices such as mobile phone. It was hard fighting my weakness every day of my life but after all thank God I made my family proud, she added.

Mrs. Bernard was emotional yesterday, as she witnessed her daughter getting recognised for her achievement as the colleges top Year 13 student.

I am thankful that after all the days of praying and uplifting my daughter in the hands of God, he has heard and answered my prayers.

And I cannot thank God enough for the blessings he has blessed me and our family with. Even though my husband has passed away, but there is still hope in me that my children will succeed in the future.

No words can explain how happy and proud I am seeing my little girl walking the stage she added.

Taking on the responsibility of being a single parent to Lalotea and her six other siblings was not easy for Mrs. Bernard, but she did not throw in the towel.

With her secondary school now over, Lalotea said she is looking forward to the next chapter of her life and hopes she will be successful in the future to provide for her family.Living with HIV is no longer a death sentence if a person is tested positive with the virus.

Doctor Sarah Brown-Ah Kau of the National Health Services (N.H.S.) said this yesterday when discussing the work of the N.H.S. and the Ministry of Health in addressing HIV and AIDS over the last 28 years.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, she said the N.H.S. has played a key role in offering blood tests and screening blood donations for sexually transmitted infections.

We conduct a lot of testing among key populations: people who are at a higher risk of getting HIV or STIs such as men who have sex with men, faafafines and sex workers.

We also do a lot with prevention about safe sex practices and distributing condoms, she said.

A key component of the HIV awareness is to emphasise that HIV is treatable and treatment is free and available in Samoa, Dr. Brown said.

HIV is no longer a death sentence. Just because youre infected does not mean you will have a poor quality of life. In fact its quite the opposite these days, its similar to having diabetes or high blood pressure, where you take tablets daily and you can live a normal life.

According to Dr. Brown-Ah Kau, men or women who test positive to HIV can still live a normal life after they are put on treatment.

You can have children, have a family, go to work and we shouldnt discriminate people just because of their status, she added.Christmas has come early for Lemoa Emosi Tufue and his family from Afega, when they were the recipients of gift hampers from local company Island Rock yesterday.

Kicking off their 25 Days of the Spirit of Christmas Campaign yesterday, company staff and members of the local media visited some of the familieswhose daily challenges were featured in the Village Voice weekly column of the Samoa Observerand made the presentations.

Emosi, 66, and his family were one of four lucky families who received food hampers containing a box of chicken, tinned fish, noodles, box of crackers, bags of rice together with toys for the children.

I am truly humbled by such generosity. I am shocked that our family could receive this blessing.

As you can see, me and my family are not rich and we have nothing to repay you all with, but I pray that God will bless Island Rock for having a kind heart to give to those in need.

We also acknowledge the programme by the Samoa Observer in giving a voice for those that need assistance, he said.

His familys daily challenges were featured in this newspapers Village Voice column, where they requested assistance due to the deteriorating condition of their house.

Island Rock representative, Maiava Iosia, told the family that they were working in partnership with the Samoa Observer to assist families that are in need.

We are working in partnership with Samoa Observer because we are currently running a campaign that spreads the spirit of giving to those in great need of help that are featured in the Village Voice.

Our company is spreading the spirit of love as well by gifting families with food supplies and toys to put smiles on kids faces.

We also thank the Samoa Observer for finding people who are in need so that assistance can be given to them, he said.

Being confined to a wheelchair was an added challenge for Emosi and his four children, but he was delighted when Island Rock representatives and the media arrived to do the presentation.KATOWICE, Poland (AP)  U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a dramatic appeal to world leaders Monday to take the threat of global warming seriously and to act boldly to avert a catastrophic rise in temperatures before the end of the century.

Guterres, who spoke at the opening of the U.N. climate conference in Poland, called climate change "the most important issue we face."

"Even as we witness devastating climate impacts causing havoc across the world, we are still not doing enough, nor moving fast enough, to prevent irreversible and catastrophic climate disruption," Guterres told delegates from almost 200 countries who gathered in the city of Katowice.

Famed British naturalist Sir David Attenborough echoed his warnings, telling the gathering that the "collapse of our civilizations and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizons" if no urgent action is taking against global warming.

The 92-year-old TV presenter blamed humans for the "disaster of global scale, our greatest threat in thousands of years."

The U.N. chief chided countries, particularly those most responsible for greenhouse gas emissions, for failing to do enough to back the 2015 Paris climate accord, which set a goal of keeping global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit)  ideally 1.5 degrees C (2.7 degrees F)  by the end of the century.

Citing a recent scientific report on the dire consequences of letting average global temperatures rise beyond 1.5 degrees, Guterres urged countries to cut their emissions 45 percent from 2010 levels by 2030 and aim for net zero emissions by 2050.

Net zero emissions mean that any greenhouse gases emitted need to be soaked up by forest or new technologies that can remove carbon from the atmosphere.

Such cuts, which experts say are the only way to achieve the 1.5-degree goal, would require a radical overhaul of the global economy and a move away from using fossil fuels.

"In short, we need a complete transformation of our global energy economy, as well as how we manage land and forest resources," Guterres said.

He said governments should embrace the opportunities rather than cling to fossil fuels such as coal, which are blamed for a significant share of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions.

The U.N. chief's remark was directed at conference host Poland, which relies on coal for 80 percent of its energy. Polish President Andrzej Duda said during a news conference later Monday that the coal-rich country would work to reduce its reliance on coal but never entirely give up its "strategic fossil fuel."

Guterres also urged negotiators not to forget that the challenges they face pale in comparison to the difficulties climate change already is causing millions of people around the world whose homes and livelihoods are threatened by rising sea levels, drought and more powerful storms.

A 15-year-old Swedish activist who takes time out of school to highlight the danger of global warming echoed his appeal. sentiment. old Greta Thunberg said world leaders who skip the climate summit are "very irresponsible."

Thunberg, who protests outside Sweden's parliament each week and has inspired students in other countries, said absent leaders such as U.S. President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel "don't realize how much power they have."

"I think that in the future we will look back and we will either laugh at them or we will hate them," she told The Associated Press. "It's very sad, but if they don't do anything right now that is the truth."

A goal of the two-week conference in Poland's southern coal mining region of Silesia is finalizing how governments report on their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and keep global warming within the limits of the Paris climate deal.

Guterres called for a "huge increase in ambitions" during the negotiations in Poland, adding "we cannot afford to fail in Katowice."

"This is the challenge on which this generation's leaders will be judged," he said.

He told reporters that the reality of global climate change has been "worse than expected, but the political will is relatively faded after Paris" and not matching the current challenges.

Arnold Schwarzenegger, the action film star and former governor of California, insisted the United States is "still in" the Paris accord to curb global warming despite Trump's decision to walk away from it.

"America is more than just Washington or one leader," he said, adding that he wished he could travel back in time  like the cyborg he portrayed in "The Terminator"  to stop fossil fuels from being used.

Calling Trump "meshugge"  Yiddish for "crazy"  for deciding to withdraw from the Paris accord, Schwarzenegger insisted that the climate deal has widespread support at local and state levels in the U.S.

Duda, the Polish leader, said participants at the conference have backed his country's proposal that governments should ensure a "just transition" for workers in fossil fuel industries who stand to their jobs as the world shifts to renewable energy.

But Fiji's prime minister, Frank Bainimarama said any "just transition" should consider the fate of all the people around the world whose lives are affected by climate change.

Residents of the world's smaller islands, many of whom face catastrophic flooding from higher sea levels in a warming world, have been among the world's most vocal backers of measures to combat climate change.KIEV, Ukraine (AP)  Ukraine's president announced a partial call-up of reservists for training amid tensions with Russia, saying Monday that the country needs to beef up its defenses to counter the threat of a Russian invasion.

The Kremlin dismissed the Ukrainian leader's statement as an "absurd" attempt to inflame tensions.

Ukraine has also accused Russia of blockading its ports on the Sea of Azov and urged Germany and other Western allies to boost their naval presence in the Black Sea to help deter Russia from further aggression.

Relations between the two neighbors have been strained following a Nov. 25 clash in which the Russian coast guard fired upon and seized three Ukrainian naval vessels and their crews off the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014 from Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko responded by introducing martial law for 30 days in the country's border areas and barring all Russian males aged 16 to 60 from entering the country, a move he said was needed to prevent Russia from assembling destabilizing forces in Ukraine.

Poroshenko said Monday that some reservists will be summoned for training as part of martial law and some military units will be redeployed.

"Ukraine is taking its own steps in response to the threat of a large-scale Russian invasion," he said.

Over the weekend, Poroshenko said Russia has deployed a large number of troops along its border with Ukraine and alleged that the Kremlin intends to push inland into Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, dismissed Poroshenko's claims as an "absurd attempt to foment tensions."

"The accusations against Russia have no basis whatsoever," he said.

Peskov also rejected Kiev's claim that Russia was blocking traffic to and from Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov, saying navigation has continued normally except for occasional breaks because of bad weather.

The separatist conflict in Ukraine's eastern industrial heartland against Russia-backed rebels has taken a toll on the nation's economy, reducing the cargo flow through the Ukrainian ports of Mariupol and Berdyansk on the Sea of Azov. The naval clash further stoked tensions  and 24 Ukrainian seamen are still in Russian custody in Moscow.

Vitaliy Sinhur, a dock worker in Berdyansk, said the movement of ships has significantly ebbed.

Amid the tensions, the Russian military said its forces in occupied Crimea were conducting drills involving Bal and Bastion long-range anti-ship missile systems.

Ukraine's deputy defense minister, Anatoliy Petrenko, said the country is talking to its Western partners to respond to Russia's "escalatory actions."

The U.S. and its NATO allies have strongly urged Russia to free the Ukrainian vessels and the crews.

"There is no justification for this use of force," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters Monday. "Russia must release the Ukrainian sailors and ships. It must also allow freedom of navigation and unhindered access to Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov."

NATO foreign ministers are to discuss the incident later this week.

Stoltenberg added that NATO allies have helped modernize Ukraine's armed forces and have boosted their presence in the Black Sea over the last year.

Russia is adamant that the Ukrainian ships had entered its waters without permission, while Ukraine says its ships were operating in line with a 2003 treaty with Russia that gives both nations free movement in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait.

In the Ukrainian port of Mariupol, Ukrainian border guard spokesman Artem Polyakov said tensions in the area were boiling.

"The Russian Federation is building up military forces in the Sea of Azov," he said.

Poroshenko said he tried to arrange a phone call with Putin to discuss the standoff but the Kremlin has refused.

Peskov said Monday that "no such conversation is planned."December 3, 1906 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.

Monday, December 3, 1906

In 1906 two men and a woman were killed in a bloody land dispute between two families over a homestead claim in Hellhole Canyon, near Valley Center. The tragedy was reported in newspapers across the nation.

Here are the first few paragraphs of the story:

THREE KILLED; FAMILY FEUD

Terrible Tragedy is Enacted in Field Near Escondido Early This Morning

Edward F. Brady Shot and Killed By Howard Gore  Heroic Wife Fatally Wounds Husbands Slayer and is in Turn Show Down  Residents of Valley Center.

THE DEAD:

BRADY, EDWARD F., a farmer of Valley Center

BRADY, MRS. MARY ANN, wife of Brady

GORE, HOWARD, a rancher of Valley Center

One of the most terrible tragedies ever enacted in San Diego County occurred early this morning when Edward F. Brady, his wife and Howard Gore were killed.

For the past few months there had been a family feud between the Bradys and Gore, starting over the claim of Brady that Gore had jumped a claim belonging to Brady.

Early this morning Brady and his wife went out into the field at their place about ten miles from Valley Center. There the couple met Gore who was armed with a rifle; Brady and his wife were unarmed.

Immediately upon sighting the Bradys, Gore opened fire with his rifle. The first two shots took effect in Bradys body but failed to stun the man. Brady ran back to a ditch and attempted to shelter himself from Gores fire.

Gore followed closely after Brady and upon reaching the rim of the ditch fired directly down into Brady, killing him. In the meantime Mrs. Brady had made a dash for her home, a short distance away. She did not succeed in reaching the house however before Gore had fired twice upon her, both balls taking effect.

Mrs. Brady continued her flight until she reached her home. Virgil Wood, a young man of Valley Center was in the house and with his help Mrs. Brady secured a rifle, broke open a window sash and fired twice at Gore, who was running towards her, firing as he ran.

The second shot that Mrs. Brady fired was sent simultaneously with one from Gores rifle. Both shots hit the mark and both Mrs. Brady and Gore fell dead.

According to reports received from Escondido, Brady has a divorced wife living at Escondido, Mrs. E. N. Able, also a daughter Miss Bertie Brady who lives with her mother.

The bitter feeling between the two men was started some time ago when Gore is said to have jumped a claim owned by Brady.

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.A 23-year-old Los Angeles man has been arrested and accused of child abuse in connection with his daughters death, police said.

Charles Richard Lee is being held on suspicion of felony child abuse after his 4-year-old daughter was pronounced dead at Los Angeles County USC Medical Center on Sunday night, according to a news release issued by the Los Angeles Police Department.

Detectives launched an investigation about 11 a.m. Sunday after they were contacted by hospital staff about a 4-year-old girl who was brought in by ambulance, police said. The girl had been rushed to the hospital from a home in the 1500 block of East 42nd Street, authorities said.

Los Angeles County coroners officials on Monday identified the girl as Zaraellia Thompson. She was pronounced dead at the hospital at 11:34 a.m. Her cause of death has not yet been determined.

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Investigators have submitted a case to the Los Angeles County district attorneys office for review. Lee was booked around 9:30 a.m. Monday and is being held in lieu of $1-million bail, according to online jail records.

Detectives told KABC-TV Channel 7 that the girl was found in a bathroom, but it didnt appear that she had drowned.

hannah.fry@latimes.com

james.queally@latimes.com

Follow @Hannahnfry and @JamesQueallyLAT on Twitter for breaking news in Southern California.

UPDATES:

2:35 p.m.: This article was updated with details about the arrest of Charles Richard Lee.

This article was originally published at 11:40 a.m.For 25 years, a painting by the Impressionist master Camille Pissarro has hung on a museum wall in Spain.

The artworks dark past is no secret: In 1939, months before the start of the Second World War, Nazi officials forced a Jewish woman to trade it for her freedom as she tried to flee Germany.

But despite committing to international agreements that call on nations to work toward returning artwork looted by the Nazi state, Spain has waged a relentless legal battle in U.S. courts against descendants of the woman, Lilly Cassirer, to keep the masterpiece, which is valued at $30 million.

The fight has stretched well into its second decade as attorneys for Madrids Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza spent years first trying to have the case thrown out of the U.S. courts and then arguing the museum is the lawful owner of the painting.

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Claude Cassirer, Lilly Cassirers grandson, filed the lawsuit in 2005, but died several years ago. His daughter then died this year, leaving his son, David, to carry on the case.

Now, a federal judge in Los Angeles is set to decide who has the rightful claim to the painting.

On Tuesday, high-profile attorneys for the museum and Cassirer are scheduled to begin trial before U.S. District Judge John F. Walter in a downtown courtroom. Walter, who will hear the case without a jury, must interpret the intricacies of Spains property laws to decide the paintings owner. Whichever side prevails, an appeal is almost certain.

The case is one of several filed in U.S. courts by American descendants of European Jews. In perhaps the most well-known legal skirmish, the U.S. Supreme Court in 2004 ruled Austria could not use sovereign immunity to avoid a lawsuit by a Maria Altmann, a Los Angeles woman seeking the return of a few Gustav Klimt paintings valued at $150 million.

And earlier this year, an appeals court brought an apparent end to an 11-year legal saga when it upheld a ruling by Walter in a case involving Renaissance paintings of Adam and Eve seized by the Nazis from a Dutch Jewish art dealer. Walter ruled the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena should keep the artwork because the Dutch government had been the valid owner when it sold the paintings.

The current trial is playing out as European nations, the U.S. and others around the world take stock of the uneven effort to rectify the cultural damage the Third Reich inflicted with its organized campaign to plunder art and other valuables from families and museums. Last week, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the signing of the first major international agreement on the importance of locating Nazi-looted art and quickly reaching just and fair solutions with its owners, experts gathered in Berlin to measure the work that remains.

Of the roughly 600,000 paintings thought to have been stolen, about 100,000 remain missing, Stuart E. Eizenstat, a State Department advisor on Holocaust-era issues and leading figure in the campaign to return looted art, said in an address at the conference.

Spain, Eizenstat said, was one of a handful of key countries that have made virtually no effort to comply with the principles in the agreement, despite signing it and subsequent declarations. In criticizing Spain for its recalcitrance, he highlighted its refusal to return the Pissarro to the Cassirer family.

At stake is Rue Saint-Honore in the Afternoon. Effect of Rain, one in a series of oil paintings Pissarro made of the street scene he saw from his room in a Paris hotel at the end of 1897 and 1898. Shortly after completing it, Pissarro sold the painting, which is about 2.5 feet tall, to Lilly Cassirers father, who eventually passed it on to his daughter.

Claude Cassirer as a young boy with his grandmother, Lilly Cassirer, who was forced by Nazis to surrender the painting in exchange for a visa to flee Germany. (The Cassirer Family Trust)

In 2010, shortly before his death, Claude Cassirer recalled in a Times interview memories of growing up in Berlin in the 1920s and how his grandmother raised him after his mother died. He had vivid memories of the Pissarro painting on the wall of her lavishly furnished parlor, where he used to sit on a plush Oriental carpet playing with wooden trucks and trains.

As Adolf Hitler rose to power, members of the family of industrialists and art collectors fled Germany. Claude Cassirer parted ways with his grandmother, going first with his father to Prague, in what was then Czechoslovakia, then to a boarding school in Britain, where classmates and teachers relied on him to translate Hitlers speeches as they were broadcast on the radio. Cassirer later moved to France, but had to escape to Morocco after the Nazis occupied the country, and eventually made his way to the United States.

Lilly Cassirer was among the last of the family to flee the coming terror of the Holocaust. As she tried to leave Germany, a Nazi official forced her to surrender the painting in exchange for the exit visa she needed. Her sister, who remained, was later killed in the death camp of Theresienstadt.

At the end of the war, Lilly Cassirer joined many other Jews in seeking help from Allied officials who were working to locate looted art. A search for the painting turned up nothing. Years later, the German government paid Cassirer about $13,000 as restitution and, afterward, she gave up her search. .

My grandmother never knew what happened to the painting, Claude Cassirer said in 2010.

When Lilly Cassirer died, she left the rights to the painting to Claude. In a house outside San Diego, where Claude and his wife had retired, the couple kept a copy of the lost Pissarro on the wall.

Then, in 2000, Cassirer received a phone call from an old acquaintance: The painting had been found.

I was in shock, he told The Times in 2010.

The painting had ended up in Spain after changing hands among private owners several times. In 1976, an art dealer in New York City negotiated a sale of the painting to Baron Hans-Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza, a Swiss art collector and scion of a German steel empire. Years later, the Spanish government elected to buy the barons entire art collection of hundreds of paintings for nearly $340 million. The museum in Madrid became the Pissarros new home.

Cassirer contacted Spanish authorities and asked for the Pissarro to be returned. When the requests were rebuffed, he sued.

Lawyers for the museum tried for years to get the lawsuit tossed out on the grounds that Spains sovereignty gave it immunity from such legal proceedings in a U.S. court. When an appeals court found otherwise, the museum tried a new tack, arguing that the statute of limitations on the familys right to claim the artwork had expired. A judge sided with the museum, but was overturned by an appeals court.

The case was transferred to Walters, who again ruled in favor of the museum in 2016 when he concluded that under that the peculiarities of Spanish law, Spain legally owned the painting because the museum had possessed it for a legally binding period of time and displayed it publicly. But an appeals court once again reversed the decision and sent the case back, setting the stage for a trial.

The fight over the painting now hinges on the question of whether the artworks tainted provenance should have been clear to the baron and Spanish officials.

David Boies, a litigator who, among other cases, represented Al Gore in the fight over the 2000 presidential election and argued on behalf of gay marriage before the Supreme Court, is representing David Cassirer. In an interview, he said he will argue at trial that the failure on the part of the baron and Spanish officials to heed clues pointing to the paintings history amounted to willful blindness.

Most telling, Boies said, are the remains of labels on the back of the painting, which have been torn or fallen off over the years. One of the partial labels, which are typically affixed to track ownership as a painting changes hands, is from an art gallery Lilly Cassirers father and another relative ran in Berlin. Boies also highlighted records from the barons archives that, he said, show the baron deliberately falsified where he bought the painting in an effort to conceal its history.

To win the case, Boies must convince the judge the baron or museum officials were so negligent that under Spanish law they amount to being accessories, however distant, to the Nazis theft of the painting.

Through a spokeswoman, attorneys for the museum declined to comment. But in court filings, they reject Boies claims, saying both the baron and museum bought the painting in good faith. While in hindsight the small piece of the gallery label could raise a red flag, experts hired by the museum said in written testimony that at the time each bought it, there would have been no reason for the baron or museum officials to be wary of the paintings past or to link it to the Cassirer family.

On its website, the museum in making its case points to the fact that the painting has been on public display as proof it has nothing to hide. They also claim the money Lilly Cassirer accepted from the German government ended her claim on the painting  a point Boies disputes.

For David Cassirers part, a chance to make his familys case before a judge has been a long time coming.

Weve waited so many years for a trial and are looking forward to our day in court, he said in a statement.

joel.rubin@latimes.com

Follow @joelrubin on TwitterTrial for Rep. Duncan Hunter, R-Alpine, and his wife and former campaign manager, Margaret, was set during a hearing on Monday for Sept. 10.

Duncan and Margaret Hunter appeared in federal court in downtown San Diego for a planning hearing stemming for their Aug. 21 indictment. The two face 60 counts of crimes including conspiracy wire fraud and making false reports to the Federal Election Commission.

The couple has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and Rep. Hunter says the prosecution is a political witch hunt.

The couples next appearance in court, also scheduled during Mondays hearing, was set for July 29.

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The parties in the case agreed to set dates far in advance because of the complexity of the case and hang-ups caused by technical difficulties in the discovery process.

Prosecutors allege Margaret and Duncan Hunter used Hunters campaign coffers like a personal bank account, frequently dipping into it to subsidize a lifestyle they could not afford. The couple allegedly spent $250,000 of campaign money on family trips to Italy and Hawaii, tequila shots, oral surgery, tuition for their childrens private school and scores of other personal expenses.

Hunter, 41, has denied that he was responsible for the charges in question and suggested his wife, 43, was to blame.

Personal use of campaign money is against the law to prevent undue influence by donors such as defense contractors who do business with the federal government.

Margaret and Duncan Hunter arrived separately for their hearing Monday. They did not sit together or interact. On his way out of the courthouse, a handful of protesters followed Hunter to his car, some of them chanting, Shame.

Hunter, who was elected in November to a sixth term in Congress, stepped down from his committee assignments after he was indicted this summer.

William Johnson of San Diego was among the small crowd of protesters who came out for the hearing Monday. There were about 10 of them, a small group compared to the dozens of demonstrators who showed up to protest outside Hunters previous court hearings.

Since the election is over, theres not as much enthusiasm around this and also its hard to get here, Johnson said.

Johnson said he hoped Hunter would resign and that there would be a special election to replace him.

morgan.cook@sduniontribune.comThough many adhere to the old adage its easier to get a job if you already have one, that was definitely not the approach of Chris Howard, Sharp HealthCares incoming chief executive officer.

In a recent telephone interview, the St. Louis career medical administrator said he felt compelled to resign when he saw that the top spot at Sharp was coming open with the retirement of long-time leader, Mike Murphy.

As soon as I heard Mike Murphy was going to enjoy a well-deserved retirement, I knew that it was time for me to branch out on my own, and I understood that this would be a well-challenged competition if you will, Howard said.

Howard, 54, was about one year into his most recent job as chief operations officer for St. Louis-based SSM Health, the St. Louis-based Catholic health system that owns 24 hospitals in four states, when he saw Sharps job announcement.

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His decision to quit what he was doing and become a full-time job applicant paid off. Last week, Sharps board announced Howard as Murphys successor starting Jan. 31. Murphys last day will be March 1.

Richard Freeman, past president of Sharps board of directors and chair of its CEO search committee, said that the nationwide recruiting effort received well in excess of 100 resumes. That pile was winnowed to a dozen for the board to scrutinize, eventually producing a top five for face-to-face interviews. Three finalists returned for a second round of interviews before Howard came out on top.

In the end, Freeman said, the breadth of Howards experience, which ranges from running doctor practices early in his career to serving as chief executive in SSMs Oklahoma and St. Louis markets, was persuasive as was his apparent knowledge of Sharps operations.

We were trying to find somebody with extensive quality experience but, at the same time, somebody who understands what our culture is all about, Freeman said.

Sharp has received a fair bit of attention in health care management circles for the Sharp Experience, a credo of volunteerism and personal connection to patients drilled into each of the organizations 18,000 employees and 2,600 affiliated doctors.

It probably didnt hurt that Howard is quite familiar with this concept.

During my years at SSM, I shamelessly tried to emulate the finer qualities of the Sharp Experience, trying to create an exceptional experience for the patients and creating an environment where people want to work, Howard said. Sharp has put every ounce of its energy into that quest, and I can tell you that it has a reputation for creating an environment where that does in fact happen.

It will be the executives first stint as CEO of a large health care system. While Sharps four all-purpose and three specialty hospitals make it significantly smaller than SSM, the not-for-profit does have the full range of components, from affiliated doctor groups to its own health plan, that allow it to operate as a fully-integrated health care system.

Keeping the bottom line in the black these days increasingly involves the ability to accept financial responsibility for a patients entire course of care, and Sharp has invested heavily in vertical integration toward that end over the last decade.

Of late, the organization has been doing quite well at marrying these different pieces, at least according to the National Committee for Quality Assurance, which has awarded Sharp Health Plan an excellent designation, naming it the highest rated among its peers in California four years running. In its latest hospital safety grades report, the Leapfrog Group, a nonprofit health care quality analysis firm, awarded Sharps primary hospitals three As and one B.

By comparison, SSM hospitals range from As to Cs in the latest Leapfrog report.

In an environment where many health care systems across the nation are laying off employees citing shrinking reimbursement, Sharp has continued to grow.

According to its most recent quarterly statement to bond holders, Sharp has so far slightly exceeded its projected 8.5 percent profit margin during the current fiscal year while spending $12.6 million to acquire a 5.4 acre parcel in Santee that will become a new Sharp Rees-Stealy medical office building. It also is spending $27.5 million to buy the building that houses the Douglas & Nancy Barnhart Cancer Center on the Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center campus.

There is a lot at stake, then, in the boards choice of a new leader. He must keep up with industry trends without upsetting a system that has remained afloat in a time of turbulent change.

Freeman said directors are confident that Howard can navigate the disparate demands of doctors, employees, the public and patients.

We feel he definitely has a good grasp of the big picture. He had wonderful references, and that leadership ability really came through when we talked to him one-on-one, Freeman said, noting that the boards confidence is reinforced by the fact that Dan Gross, Murphys long-time administrative juggernaut, remains in place as Howards seasoned second. Gross was thought to be a clear choice as Murphys successor, but decided he was too close to retirement to seek the appointment.

Howard said he has formulated no big plan for change. Whats necessary out of the gate, he said, is an open pair of ears.

I will embark on a strong and diligent listening tour across Sharp and across San Diego to understand what good things have been achieved but also what opportunities for improvement exist, Howard said.

Howard said he and his wife, Linda, are starting a San Diego house search. The couple, married 27 years, has two children, twins, who are currently seniors at the University of Missouri.

Health Playlist On Now Video: Why aren't Americans getting flu shots? 0:37 On Now Video: Leaders urge public to help extinguish hepatitis outbreak On Now San Diego starts cleansing sidewalks, streets to combat hepatitis A On Now Video: Scripps to shutter its hospice service On Now Video: Scripps La Jolla hospitals nab top local spot in annual hospital rankings On Now Video: Does a parent's Alzheimer's doom their children? On Now Video: Vaccine can prevent human papillomavirus, which can cause cancer 0:31 On Now 23 local doctors have already faced state discipline in 2017 0:48 On Now EpiPen recall expands On Now Kids can add years to your life

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Twitter: @paulsissonIsraeli police on Sunday recommended indicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on bribery charges related to a corruption case involving Israel's telecom giant, prompting immediate calls for his resignation.

Police say their investigation has established an evidentiary foundation to charge Netanyahu and his wife Sara with accepting bribes, fraud and breach of trust. The case revolves around suspicions that confidants of Netanyahu promoted regulations worth hundreds of millions of dollars to the Bezeq telecom company in exchange for positive coverage of the prime minister on Bezeq's subsidiary news website, Walla.

Police have already recommended indicting Netanyahu on corruption charges in two other cases. One involves accepting gifts from billionaire friends, and the second revolves around alleged offers of advantageous legislation for a newspaper in return for positive coverage.

The prime minister has denied any wrongdoing, dismissing the accusations as a witch hunt orchestrated by the media.

"The police recommendations regarding me and my wife don't surprise anyone," Netanyahu said in a statement. "These recommendations were decided upon and leaked even before the investigation began."

The Bezeq case, known as Case 4000, is the most serious of all those of which Netanyahu has been accused. Two of his top confidants have turned state witnesses and are believed to have provided police with incriminating evidence. Netanyahu held the government's communications portfolio until last year and oversaw regulation in the field. Former journalists at the Walla news site have attested to being pressured to refrain from negative reporting of Netanyahu.

Police say the investigation, which included the testimony of 60 witnesses, revealed that Netanyahu and Bezeq boss Shaul Elovitch engaged in a "bribe-based relationship."

From 2012 to 2017 the prime minister and his associates "blatantly intervened" on a near-daily basis in the Walla news site, using the connections with Elovitch to influence appointments there and to promote flattering articles and pictures while quelling critical stories of the prime minister and his family, police said.

Police are also recommending charges be brought against Elovitch and members of his family.

"The most serious bribery case yet leaves no room for doubt: a prime minister who is accused of the most serious offense for a public servant in the Israeli rule book cannot keep serving one minute longer," said Tamar Zandberg, head of the dovish opposition Meretz party.

"The prime minister has no moral mandate to keep his seat and must resign today. Israel must go to elections."

Other opposition figures, including head of the opposition Labour party, Avi Gabbay, quickly joined in the call for Netanyahu to resign.

Netanyahu's colleagues in the ruling Likud party have lined up behind him, attacking outgoing Police Commissioner Roni Alsheikh for releasing the recommendation on his last day on the job. The appointment of Alsheikh's potential successor is being held up after a government-appointed committee rejected his candidacy.

The other coalition partners have previously deferred bolting, saying they would await a formal decision by Israel's attorney general to press charges. But the latest development further threatens the wobbly government, already weakened by the recent departure of Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman and his party. Netanyahu's coalition currently enjoys only the slimmest of parliamentary majorities.

Elections are currently scheduled for November 2019.

Police are also recommending that charges be brought against Netanyahu's wife, Sara, who has been at the center of much of the corruption allegations surrounding the longtime Israeli leader. Reports have surfaced of Sara Netanyahu relaying requests to Bezeq officials.

She has already been charged with fraud and breach of trust for allegedly overspending roughly $100,000 on private meals at the prime minister's official residence, even as there was a full-time chef on staff.

Sara Netanyahu has long faced allegations of extravagant living and abusive behavior. In 2016, a court ruled she abused an employee and awarded the man $42,000 in damages. Other former employees have accused her of mistreatment, charges the Netanyahus have vehemently denied, and of excessive spending and charging the state for her private, expensive tastes.

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The San Diego region has no shortage of homes next to fire-prone hillsides covered in highly flammable chaparral and grasslands. The undulating, arid topography has carried flames at mind-boggling speeds in some of the states most destructive blazes.

Now elected officials in the county want to add another roughly 10,000 homes in areas largely labeled by Cal Fire as posing a very-high fire hazard.

Those units would come in the form of eight new sprawling housing projects, which have drawn widespread opposition and even lawsuits.

The development, county supervisors have said, is badly needed and in each case, developers have laid out exhaustive fire-prevention blueprints.

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Elected officials have stressed that those plans are reviewed and approved by local fire districts or Cal Fire.

I take every decision I make very seriously and always rely heavily on the feedback provided by our fire experts, the firefighters, said board chair Kristin Gaspar in an email.

Environmental groups, who have opposed the projects on a number of grounds, renewed their attacks in November following what became the states most deadly and destructive blaze, Northern Californias Camp Fire.

Its a huge risk putting thousands of lives in these areas where we know fire is going to happen, said Tiffany Yap, an advocate with the Center for Biological Diversity, which estimates the projects would put as many as 40,000 people in danger of wildfire.

County staff declined several requests for interviews on the topic, citing ongoing litigation against the projects that have already received needed amendments to the countys 2011 general plan  Newland Sierra, Valiano, Harmony Grove Village South and Otay 250 Sunroad.

Supervisor Dianne Jacob, being absent for the votes in question, is the only member of the board not to vote to approve the projects. She said that changes to established zoning rules must be weighed against wildfire risk.

The countys general plan, our guiding document on land-use issues, was overhauled a few years ago and now steers future development to existing communities with well-established services, she said in an email. It guards against sprawl in remote areas and aims to minimize losses in any disaster.

According to experts, Californias building codes and planning strategies have come a long way in recent years to protect homes from wildfire. Specifically, homes built since 2008 in fire-prone areas have been required to include features, such as vents designed to stop embers, dual-paned and tempered windows, as well as fire-resident roofs, walls and doors.

The state also requires residents to maintain defensible space around a homes perimeter by removing flammable materials, including brush and other vegetation. Exact rules can vary as some municipalities, such as San Diego County, have stricter provisions.

Many communities, notably in Rancho Santa Fe, Ramona and Julian, have been able to stave off the worst impacts of wildfire thanks to these upgrades and practices, said Christopher Dicus, a professor of wildland fires and fuels management at California Polytechnic State University.

You can reduce the heat exposure to the home, but more important is preparing the homes for the ember attacks that are going to ensure under Santa Ana winds, he said. All it takes it one ember that can travel literally miles in front of the make fire front.

He said the research community doesnt fully understand how to prevent embers from burning down the house.

When these embers are coming out its not like little embers, theyre like softballs blowing at 60 miles an hour slamming against homes, literally billions looking for any sort of nook and cranny they can get into, he said.

At the same time, experts said that too often homeowners become complacent about chopping back fast-growing vegetation or leave flammable items resting against their homes. Enforcing the rules consistently over time can be difficult given limited resources and sprawling housing conditions.

Cal Fire San Diego declined interview requests for this story.

What these building codes and other rules dont take into account is whether a particular project should be built at all, said Max Moritz, a cooperative extension specialist in wildfire at the Bren School at UC Santa Barbara.

Theres all these hazards that we use to guide our building and our zoning from floods to landslides, and fire is not one of them, Moritz said.

In the end, the taxpayer is left holding the bill for all this, he added. The developer may do a really good job at designing and convincing everybody that its the right thing to do, but after they walk away, the public is left doing fuels maintenance for decades, and the public picks up the bill when theres a disaster.

Many of the fire-protection plans for the proposed developments in San Diego County include sophisticated measures, including large swathes of defensible space, walls to block potential flames and strategically irrigated landscapes.

Michael Huff, a principal senior urban forester with Dudek, said his company has designed several of the blueprints for the current projects, including Newland Sierra and Harmony Grove Village South.

He said he goes so far as to model wind conditions on a localized scale when designing a fire plan.

Every site that we work on in San Diego is different, he said. Its based on everything from the location to the fuel types to the exposure to the winds.

Huff said that in some cases he has turned down work because a project could not be built safely. However, he declined to call out any such developments in particular because they are likely still seeking approval.

Id rather not say too much about them because they may still be active trying to get through, and I dont want to put any attention on them, he said.

In an email, county staff said the agency has denied about 20 proposed subdivisions since 2009 based on wildfire concerns related to building codes.

Twitter: @jemersmith

Phone: (619) 293-2234

Email: joshua.smith@sduniontribune.comSage filled the air, colorful costumes adorned the crowd and traditional Mexican music blasted over speakers downtown Sunday as more than 1,000 people filled the streets in the annual procession to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe.

For more than 40 years, the procession has been a fixture in San Diego, although the routes often change. This year, the participants started at San Diego City College, walked down B Street and up Third Avenue to Saint Joseph Cathedral.

Participants were a mix of Catholics of Mexican heritage and indigenous groups, both citing their connection to Mary, mother of Jesus, and the tale of her appearing in Villa de Guadalupe (a suburb of Mexico City) in the 1500s.

Mexican flags were wrapped around vehicles and most participants wore colorful clothing, especially women with embroidered traditional Mexican dresses.

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Theres a lot of the churches and dioceses throughout San Diego County participating, said Beatriz Zamora Aguilar, walking with a group of dancers. With our Danza Azteca we have have groups as from as far north as San Fernando Valley.

On the back of pick-up trucks, children depicted the meeting, according to Catholic history, of Mary appearing to Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin in Mexico City in 1531. The story says Mary, called Our Lady of Guadalupe, appeared to Cuauhtlatoatzin four times.

In the back of a pick-up trick hosted by Saint Patrick Catholic Parish in North Park, a display featured the image most associated with Our Lady of Guadalupe that is said to have appeared on Cuauhtlatoatzins cloak. The framed image sat on top of fake dirt and cacti meant to portray the Hill of Tepeyac where Mary first appeared.

Were trying to make it look like when the first apparition happened, said Eneida Scoby, youth ministry coordinator at Saint Patrick.

Cuauhtlatoatzin was a native Mexican and it is said Mary spoke to him in his native language of Nahuatl, which at the time made the story a unifying element among native peoples and the Spanish.

Lily Esparza of National City marching with Programa Misionero De San Diego said the procession is about more than just the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

We are here for unity, we are here to celebrate life and humans, she said.

Azteca dancers led the procession downtown Sunday to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe (Phillip Molnar/San Diego Union-Tribune)

Beatriz Zamora Aguilar, of Chula Vista, marching with an Aztec dance group Mexicayotl to honor Virgin Mary pic.twitter.com/ooGLV1jxQW  Phillip Molnar (@PhillipMolnar) December 2, 2018

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San Diegos new single-family homes are pricey, modern and in short supply

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Last years housing market broke recordsA bumper crop of Democrats convened Monday in the California Legislature, the largest group in the states modern history, swept into office by an electoral flood that could create a significant change on big-ticket issues including healthcare and child poverty.

Sixty Democrats joined the Assembly, making up three-quarters of the lower houses membership and the partys largest caucus in the chamber since 1883. In the 40-member Senate, 29 lawmakers are Democrats, a high-water mark reached just once before in more than half a century.

Leaders of both houses urged their colleagues to move away from campaigning and toward governing, with a number of pressing issues to tackle in the two-year legislative session ahead.

I challenge each of you to search within yourselves this session, to find the urgency we will need to match the tasks before us, Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) said in opening remarks.

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How the historically large contingent of Democrats will govern alongside Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom, who takes office in January, is likely to depend on which issues they prioritize among the scores of bills formally introduced on Monday. Although some lawmakers represent decidedly liberal communities in Californias sprawling urban landscape, others won in districts that were represented by Republicans as recently as the summer  in some cases, that GOP dominance spanned decades.

For Republicans, whose total legislative representation in the new session could fit inside a couple of passenger vans, the path forward could be challenging.

Id like to say that I surfed the blue wave and I landed on the shore, and Im here to continue my work, Senate Minority Leader Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel) said in remarks during the swearing-in session, drawing laughter from her colleagues.

Practically speaking, their small numbers will require each member to take on extra work to fill the GOPs allotted spots on legislative committees. More broadly, however, Republican legislators must search for relevance in policy debates where their votes arent needed.

Im still going through the 12 steps of grief, Sen. John Moorlach (R-Costa Mesa) quipped.

Republicans must also decide how to interpret the election results  either as the product of a nationalized midterm election under an unpopular GOP president, or as a deeper repudiation of the partys brand and platform. One Republican, San Diego Assemblyman Brian Maienschein, took the oath of office without yet knowing whether he had retained his seat, his lead shrinking as votes continue to be counted.

Still, Mondays ceremonial kickoff to the legislative session  after which lawmakers adjourned until Jan. 7  was marked by camaraderie, not confrontation. New lawmakers family members mingled and hugged, posing for photos. Assemblyman Kevin Mullin (D-South San Francisco) brought his twin infants with him, wearing matching sweater vests; Sen. Benjamin Allen (D-Santa Monica) took the oath of office while holding a carrier with his newborn inside. Later, a number of lawmakers gathered with friends for private parties across downtown Sacramento.

One small change to Californias wildfire prevention law could spark a huge political fight in Sacramento 

It was also an emotional day given the hardships many Californians are facing. Both houses acknowledged a number of deadly events in recent months. Newsom, presiding over the Senate for the final time as lieutenant governor, led the chamber in a moment of silence for those killed in the Camp and Woolsey fires.

Emotional, too, was the call for action in setting the agenda for the year ahead. Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) took aim at the oft-repeated maxim of Californias exceptionalism, telling lawmakers that poverty and the affordable housing crisis have tarnished the states reputation.

We cannot make housing affordable for the masses when the 1% are earning hundreds and thousands of times what the average worker makes, Rendon said to applause.

Two Democratic senators announced an early effort on that front, introducing a bill to restore affordable housing funding for local governments that was lost when the state abolished redevelopment agencies in 2011.

We have an opportunity to establish a renewed partnership between the state and cities, with strict accountability measures, to ensure more affordable housing gets built, state Sen. James Beall Jr. (D-San Jose) said in a written statement.

Others urged lawmakers to embrace the results of a far-reaching study released last month that called for $1.6 billion in additional spending to combat child poverty. A Fresno assemblyman, Democrat Joaquin Arambula, pledged to reintroduce a plan to extend Medi-Cal coverage to all California residents without legal immigration status. Both efforts would be expensive and could test the boundaries of a state budget that has ample cash reserves but has largely avoided the kinds of program expansions that would continue even in the presence of a recession and budget shortfalls.

I think working peoples issues have to be what we address, newly elected Sen. Maria Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) said, adding later that the resounding win for Democrats was a call for government to fill human needs  and human needs means shelter, a place to live; it means that from a job you can do everything that you aspire to do.

Lawmakers also introduced bills to implement universal preschool and new mental health services in the state, and to extend the time to file workplace harassment claims. Another new proposal aims to bolster a spring ruling by the California Supreme Court that limited the power of companies to classify workers as independent contractors, ensuring a heated battle with the business industry.

And new gun-related laws were proposed a month after a mass shooting in Thousand Oaks, including a bill to tax the sale of semiautomatic firearms  the revenue would fund violence prevention programs in California. A second bill, vetoed in the prior session by Gov. Jerry Brown, would allow teachers, employers and co-workers to ask judges to remove guns from people they believe to be a danger to the public.

National politics were not completely absent during the opening events, though not as dominant a presence as it was in 2016 when Democrats were visibly shaken by the election of President Trump. Rendon chastised Trump during his speech Monday for the decision to send troops to the U.S.-Mexico border in response to immigration fears  what he said was an assignment to do nothing but posture.

My worst fears have not yet materialized, but the federal reality has been quite bad enough, Rendon said of Trump.

Members of the Asian Pacific Islander, Latino and Jewish legislative caucuses introduced a resolution that denounced a Trump administration proposal to restrict green cards for those likely to receive public assistance, calling it classist and racist. Assemblyman David Chiu (D-San Francisco), chairman of the Asian Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus, said it would force immigrant families to make impossible choices.

The newly elected members of the Legislature marked a few milestones just by winning office. Twenty-three women  more than one-quarter of the house  now serve in the Assembly, and all but two of them are Democrats. The Legislature, where brothers have served at the same time, now has its first sister act: Baldwin Park Democrats Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio and Sen. Susan Rubio. And with members now eligible to serve longer in a single house  a change brought about by a 2012 ballot measure  the Legislature is welcoming its smallest freshman class since after the 1988 election cycle.

Newsom, who will find himself sparring with many of the new members when he becomes governor, urged lawmakers to move quickly to the work at hand.

Let us not forget why you are here. And thats not to be something, but to do something, he said.

Times staff writer Melanie Mason contributed to this report.

john.myers@latimes.com

jazmine.ulloa@latimes.com

patrick.mcgreevy@latimes.com

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UPDATES:

4:40 p.m.: This article was updated with additional quotes from lawmakers and details about proposed legislation.

This article was originally published at 2:15 p.m.One of the most pressing questions about a plan to expand the California power grid to as many as 14 states was how much it would cost to transfer oversight of the poles and wires from a state-run nonprofit to a regional board of appointees.

The California Public Utilities Commission told lawmakers the plan to redefine the way electricity is regulated would cost the agency $700,000.

But according to internal documents obtained by The San Diego Union-Tribune, the price tag for the so-called regional power grid was $2.4 million when it was developed by rank-and-file analysts. Utilities commission President Michael Picker rejected that finding as too high.

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Im having a hard time swallowing it, Picker wrote July 16 in response to the multimillion-dollar estimate. A fulltime judge? 3 full time attorneys just on what will mostly be policy development in the early years? This seems way overboard to me.

Then this: Im sorry, but I cant let us go forward with this document.

Commission spokeswoman Terrie Prosper declined to respond to questions about the email and dozens of others that shed light on behind-the-scenes input from Picker and others regarding the estimate for how much it would cost to transition to a multi-state grid.

The plan has been proposed -- and rejected -- by state lawmakers in each of the past three years. The cost issue remains pertinent because the idea is expected to be reintroduced in the new legislative session that begins next month.

The regional grid idea was included in a 1990s energy-deregulation effort but abandoned after the experiement cost ratepayers tens of billions of dollars. The plan is controversial because it does away with state controls that were won after litigation that advanced all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Under existing rules, most of the state electric grid is managed by the California Independent System Operator, or CAISO, a Folsom-based nonprofit whose board of directors is appointed by the California governor.

A regional, multistate system would be run by an industry-appointed board that would answer to federal regulators, which concerns many environmentalists and other activists.

Supporters say an expanded power grid could eventually save consumers $1 billion or more a year and allow the sale of excess wind or solar electricity to other states. Critics are afraid it would prevent California from meeting its goal of generating 100 percent of its power from renewable sources rather than natural gas or other fossil fuels.

According to the newly obtained emails, utilities commission officials knew that Assembly Bill 813 would have far-reaching impacts across the state and its economy.

In the end, we are talking about billions of dollars of impact here, Energy Division Director Edward Randolph responded to Picker and others. This is not about the right policy outcome with regionalization, it is about having the right resources in place if it happens.

The cost estimates performed by department analysts are critical to helping lawmakers decide the merits of significant bills they must consider.

Normally, the estimates are prepared by state agencies affected by a bill and those findings are presented to the state Department of Finance, which adds up the combined costs and offers the fiscal analysis to Appropriations Committees in the Assembly or Senate.

Thats not what happened in August, when the Senate Appropriations panel considered AB 813.

Even though the utilities commission publicly pegged the bills costs at $700,000 -- and the California Energy Commission said it would cost that agency $37,000 -- a Finance official told committee members at the August hearing that she had no file on the legislation.

A spokesman for the Department of Finance, which was later sued in San Diego Superior Court for failing to publicly produce a fiscal analysis of the regional-grid bill, declined to discuss the Picker emails Friday.

Apologies for the delayed response, spokesman H.D. Palmer wrote in an email. Well respectfully decline to weigh in on this one.

The emails also show that commission officials consulted closely with the Governors Office throughout the summer as the fiscal analysis was coming due -- and that Brown wanted to make sure the public cost estimate was as low as possible.

I just spoke with the G.O. on this fiscal. I want to provide additional feedback, Hazel Miranda, the commissions director of government affairs, wrote to Picker and Randolph later in July. The G.O. reminded me that the fiscal should only focus on the implementation of AB 813 and not the resources we would need IF the ISO was to become a regionalized entity.

Brown spokesman Evan Westrup said there was nothing untoward about the Governors Office contributing to the development of the Department of Finance analysis.

Our focus was on ensuring the accuracy of the fiscal assessment, he said.

Loretta Lynch, a former utilities commission president, said the emails demonstrate that regulators intentionally minimized the cost to California.

It is disturbing to see agencies deliberately misleading the Legislature, she said. These emails show that the result was decided first, and then the agencies worked backward to support that result. That process leads to undermining the peoples trust in government.

Lynch, who presided over the commission during the 2000-01 energy crisis in California that resulted from the 1990s deregulation bill, has been a vocal critic of the regional grid idea. She also was among the regulators who sued federal regulators to preserve CAISO authority.

San Diego attorney Michael Aguirre sued the Department of Finance in October for failing to release any fiscal analysis of the multistate grid bill. He said the emails suggest that Picker improperly intervened in the legislative process.

Concealing from the public what the California Public Utilities Commission would have to pay is a serious breach of trust, said Aguirre, whose lawsuit is pending. Even worse is concealing the costs from the Department of Finance.

The regional grid proposal is expected to be reintroduced as soon as January. It was a top priority for Brown but it is not yet clear whether Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom will embrace the plan. His campaign did not respond to inquiries about his position when he was running for governor this past fall.

jeff.mcdonald@sduniontribune.com (619) 293-1708 @sdutMcDonaldWith medical use of marijuana now legal in 33 states and recreational use legal for adults in 10 states, the normalization of cannabis is well under way  especially with the resignation of Attorney General Jeff Sessions, who saw the drug through a reefer madness prism and who often hinted at the crackdowns to come against states which allowed the use of a drug thats illegal under federal law.

Now its time for Congress to pass a law making it explicit that the marijuana industry has legal access to the U.S. banking system. While a new Treasury Department report shows more and more banks and credit unions are accepting marijuana business customers  486 as of Sept. 30  far more remain leery because of the potential for federal fines from government regulators with views like Sessions.

The industry needs help after a rough first year in California. Ending doubts about the legality of marijuana banking is crucial because the state is expected to generate much less tax revenue than the $630 million projected for fiscal 2018-2019. A more certain change, as the Southern California News Group reported last week, is that the state will crack down in 2019 on the illegal marijuana sellers that dont pay taxes  just as it would with unauthorized sellers of tobacco or alcohol. Both steps are crucial.

Twitter: @sdutIdeas

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Facebook: San Diego Union-Tribune Ideas & OpinionSol Kumin is a man of numbers and hes done the research. He cant find evidence of any owners in horse racing history having the kind of year he and his partners enjoyed in 2018.

The Triple Crown with Justify. The Kentucky Oaks and Breeders Cup Distaff with Monomoy Girl. The Travers with Catholic Boy.

Kumin also had a part-stake in Lady Eli, the Eclipse Award-winning mare who sold in November at the Keeneland breeding stock sale for $4.2 million.

The 43-year-old hedge fund owner from Boston was basking in the light of the winners circle again on Sundays closing day of the fall meet at Del Mar.

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Uni, a 4-year-old filly trained by Chad Brown and ridden by Joel Rosario, charged from 10th at the top of the stretch to overcome 27-1 long shot Daddy Is a Legend in the final strides to win the $300,000 Grade I Matriarch.

Uni was the third choice by bettors at 5-1 and paid $13.20. Grade I winner Vasilika, the 4-year-old filly with owners that include Olivenhains Dan Gatto, was going for her ninth straight win. But she never truly challenged and missed a third-place finish by a neck to another Brown starter, Quidura.

The fourth straight triumph for the East Coast-based Uni on a fourth different track delivered to Kumin his 24th Grade I stakes score of the year.

Its a year that will never be replicated, Kumin said. Weve tried to look it up, but the data isnt that good. I dont think anyones won more than 12 to 14 (Grade I stakes) ever.

We had a year where everything came together. It will never happen against  as least the way we do it.

Listen, he added, we work hard at this. We spend time. We spend our money. Its a different attitude. We bring our friends and family and kids into it. Its been fantastic.

It has been an excellent year, too, for Brown, who ranked as the top-earning trainer in the country ($27 million) going into the weekend, and he padded that with Grade I victories on back-to-back days at Del Mar. Brown and Rosario won the Hollywood Derby on Saturday with Raging Bull.

The Matriarch victory was the second straight for trainer and jockey, coming off last years win with Off Limits.

Though Del Mar Thoroughbred Club CEO Joe Harper loves his bread-and-butter local conditioners, he cant help but smile to see the success in big races here for importing trainers such as Brown.

Six of the 13 starters in the Matriarch were horses who had done most or all of their racing outside of California.

I think one of the things were seeing is that more of the Eastern horsemen are realizing its here, Harper said. The last two days have been terrific, really good stuff out here. You look at (the Matriarch), and it was a mini Breeders Cup race.

Del Mar reported that all-sources wagering for the 16-day meet was $165,289,183, compared to the 2017 total handle of $154,069,710, an increase of 7.3 percent.

Van Dyke tops riders

With neither of the top two jockeys getting a win on closing day, Drayden Van Dyke won the fall riding title with 17 victories to Flavien Prats 16. It was the second straight Del Mar title for Van Dyke after he took his first meet crown in the summer at Del Mar.

Prat had a chance to tie, but his Peter Miller mount in the eighth race, Captain Scotty, was overtaken and lost by a head to Calexman.

Miller bags third straight

Miller, who added another victory to his total with Go Ghetto ($4.40) in the fourth race, won the training honors for a third consecutive year. He captured 15 races in the meet, six better than Jerry Hollendorfer.

It was the second time Miller swept the summer-fall titles at Del Mar. He had a 10-win margin (31-21) over Doug ONeill in this years summer meeting. Miller also pulled off the double in 2014 while sharing the summer lead with Hollendorfer.

The meet saw Miller reach a milestone of 1,000 career wins, and he had a four-win day on Nov. 24. Miller notched one stakes victory with Solid Wager in the Cary Grant.

Among Hollendorfers wins were two Grade IIIs: Flying Scotsman in the Cecil B. DeMille and Battle of Midway in the Native Diver.

Bob Baffert was third in the trainer standings with seven wins among only 14 starters. Baffert sent out seven first-time starters and won three times. He took the Grade III Bob Hope Stakes with Mucho Gusto and Desi Arnaz with Chasing Yesterday.

John Sadler, who won 15 times in the summer and triumphed in the Breeders Cup Classic with Accelerate, did not have a win in the meet. He was 0-for-23 after winning twice with 32 starters last fall.

Safe track

The trend of fewer horse fatalities at Del Mar continued since the overhaul of the track before the 2017 summer meet. One horse, trainer Lloyd Wickers 4-year-old filly Tribal Anne, had to be euthanized with catastrophic injuries suffered in Saturdays second race. It was the horses second career start.

That was the only fatality in training or races, according to Del Mar officials. Last fall, two horses had to be euthanized after five died in 2016.

tod.leonard@sduniontribune.com

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tod.leonard@sduniontribune.com; Twitter: @sdutleonardA cold front moved through San Diego County before dawn Monday, dropping temperatures into the 30s across some inland areas and into the 40s and 50s at and near the coast, says the National Weather Service.

San Diego International Airport fell to 50 before dawn, Montgomery Field dropped to 45, Oceanside and Imperial Beach dropped to 48, Julian hit 37.

The temperatures were actually about average, but this is one of the first cold mornings weve had this fall, said Mark Moede, a weather service forecaster.

Mondays daytime highs will reach the mid-60s and low 70s along the coast temperatures will dip sharply Tuesday, and warm further Thursday.

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But then a major storm out of the north-central Pacific will bring heavy rain to San Diego County, particularly on Wednesday and Thursday. The rain could cause flash flooding across the region.

Forecasters say the system could drop up to 1.5 to 2 of precipitation, especially in southern coastal areas, according to the latest computer modeling. Similar figures are projected for inland areas.

Moede said the rain is likely to begin on Wednesday afternoon and evening, affecting the late rush hour. The rain will last well into Thursday. He said strong winds out of the south-southeast also will hit the coast, with the strongest gusts hitting 25 mph on Wednesday night.

This will be a good sized winter storm that well have to watch closely, Moede said.

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.Members of disabled groups from around Greece _ some wearing white gloves to protest in sign language _ have staged rallies in Athens and other cities to call for expanded exemptions from bailout-era taxes.

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Chanting ``the disabled won't bow their heads,'' the protesters marched through central Athens Monday and delivered a petition to the prime minister's office, marking the United Nations' Day for Persons with Disabilities.

2

Greece's third successive international bailout ended in August but austerity measures are set to continue for several more years.

3

Disabled groups say their members have been disproportionately hurt by state spending cuts, creating higher poverty rates than the national average and an unemployment rate roughly double the general level of 18.9 percent in August.

4

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Philadelphia, PA -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/03/2018 -- Now that the winter season has arrived, residents will be relying more heavily on their furnaces to keep them and their families safe and healthy. Guaranteed Plumbing & Heating, Inc. is encouraging homeowners to inspect their furnaces before the new year arrives to ensure that their systems are in good working condition before the temperatures start to drop.



Many homeowners are not aware that their furnaces need repairs until it's too late and they're stuck in a shivering-cold home or they're left trying to figure out how they'll cover an astronomically high heating bill. Guaranteed Plumbing & Heating, Inc. doesn't just provide heating repair in Montgomery Countythey also pride themselves on empowering residents to learn more about the signs that their heating systems may be headed for a breakdown. Some of the most common symptoms of an inefficiently operating furnace include a thermostat that does not display the correct temperature, a burner flame that is yellow instead of blue, or air that feels stuffy or stale. Additionally, a furnace that is breaking down more and more frequently may be reaching the end of its lifespan and require a replacement.



With over three decades of experience serving the residents of Pennsylvania, Guaranteed Plumbing & Heating, Inc. is the reliable choice for scheduled and emergency furnace repair. By providing quality and reliable service, the team at Guaranteed Plumbing & Heating, Inc. is helping to heat up the Keystone State, one home at a time.



When it comes time to call for heating repair in PA, homeowners' first stops should be to Guaranteed Plumbing & Heating, Inc. Interested parties can reach their team by calling 215-240-8610 or by paying them a visit online at https://www.guaranteedplumbingandheating.com and filling out a contact form.



About Guaranteed Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

Guaranteed Plumbing & Heating, Inc. has been serving the Philadelphia area for more than 30 years. They offer all plumbing services in order to make sure that their clients get the best Philadelphia plumbing services. Together they have trained and expanded their team allowing us to build relationships with the clients.



To learn more, visit http://www.guaranteedplumbingandheating.com.Astronomers using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) have spotted comet-like stars in a young star cluster called Westerlund 1.

Discovered by Swedish astronomer Bengt Westerlund in 1961, Westerlund 1 is located approximately 15,000 light-years away toward the southern constellation Ara.

Also known as Ara Cluster and ESO 277-12, this object is one of the most massive young star clusters in our Milky Way Galaxy.

It is made up of around 200,000 stars and is relatively young in astronomical terms  at around 3 million years old it is a baby compared to our own Sun, which is some 4.6 billion years old.

Westerlund 1 is known to host a large amount of massive stars, many of them intriguing and rare types.

It is headlined by one of the largest stars ever discovered, named Westerlund 1-26.

This star is a red supergiant  although sometimes classified as a hypergiant  with a radius over 1,500 times that of our Sun. If Westerlund 1-26 were placed where our Sun is in our Solar System, it would extend out beyond the orbit of Jupiter.

The new observations of Westerlund 1  led by University College London radio astronomer Danielle Marie Fenech  revealed comet-like tails of material stretching away from some of the giant stars in the cluster.

Such tails are formed in the thick, relentless winds that pour from the clusters stellar residents, carrying material outwards.

This phenomenon is similar to how comets get their famous and beautiful tails.

Comet tails in the Solar System are driven away from the nucleus of their parent comet by a wind of particles that streams out from the Sun. Consequently comet tails always point away from our Sun, the astronomers said.

Similarly, the tails of the huge red stars shown in the ALMA image point away from the core of the cluster, likely the result of powerful cluster winds generated by the hundreds of hot and massive stars found towards the center of Westerlund 1.

These massive structures cover large distances and indicate the dramatic effect the environment can have on how the stars form and evolve.

The new ALMA observations are reported in a paper published in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics.

_____

D.M. Fenech et al. 2018. An ALMA 3 mm continuum census of Westerlund 1. A&A 617, A137; doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/201832754Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika has been unable to receive the Saudi crown prince during his visit as planned due to acute flu, the Algerian presidency said on Monday.

The Saudi heir, Mohammed bin Salman, had arrived late on Sunday for a two-day visit to Algeria. He wished Bouteflika a speedy recovery, the presidency said in statement carried by the official APS news agency.

The cancellation of the meeting is likely to fuel speculation over whether Bouteflika will run for a fifth next in presidential elections next year.

Bouteflika, in office since 1999, has rarely appeared in public since suffering a stroke in 2013 which has bound him to a wheelchair. His last meeting with a senior foreign official was during a visit by German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sept. 17.

The ruling party and trade unions have urged him to run but intellectuals and the opposition have said his health makes him unfit for another term.

The Saudi heir met Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia, who had also received him at the airport.

Prince Mohammed was visiting Algeria as part of a tour of Arab countries he has resumed after attending the G20 summit in Argentina on the weekend.

*The story has been edited by Ahram Online.

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A plane carrying wounded members of Yemen's Houthi movement arrived in Oman's capital Muscat on Monday, the Houthi spokesman said on Twitter, fulfilling a demand the Houthis had made before they would attend peace talks in Sweden.

Yemeni Houthi officials are expected to travel to Sweden shortly for talks as early as Wednesday to end the nearly four-year-old war, after a Saudi-led Arab coalition fighting against the Houthis allowed the evacuation flight.

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Spain's Socialist prime minister says he will defend the constitution and democracy against fear following a major setback to his party in a regional election that marked an awakening of the far-right.

Pedro Sanchez tweeted Monday that ``my government will continue working on a regenerating and pro-European project for Spain.'' The anti-migrant, euroskeptic Vox party won 12 seats in the 109-member regional parliament of Andalusia, in southern Spain on Sunday.

Sanchez added that the result will ``strengthen our pledge to defend the Constitution and Democracy against fear.''

The Socialists won an election marked by a low participation, but face losing the regional government for the first time in 36 years if the center-right, conservative and extreme right opposition strike a deal to assemble a 59-seat majority.

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This will be the fifteenth FCS 5009 to join the Naviera Integral fleet and has been ordered in anticipation of international oil majors commencing operations in the Gulf of Mexico following the recent opening of the area to competition by the outgoing government.

The 50-metre FCS 5009 has been a workhorse for Naviera Integral. The axe-bow design has enabled the company to deliver crews and cargos to offshore installations out in the Gulf rapidly yet in a wide range of weather conditions. Navieras newest addition will come with all the latest updates to the class and will also feature DP2 and FiFi1 capability and Damens connected ship technology, which will ensure maximum efficiency and minimum downtime.

Following a difficult period for the offshore oil sector in the Gulf of Mexico, as elsewhere, Naviera Integrals fleet ends 2018 once again fully contracte. With the energy reforms initiated by the outgoing government, Naviera Integral anticipates international oil companies entering the local market and bringing with them new sources of demand for reliable, high-quality support services.

Damen and Naviera Integral have worked together for over twenty years and the new vessel will bring the number of Damen vessels flying the Naviera flag to twenty-four. Both companies are family-owned and they share the same values and long-term perspective. In recognition of the close relationship, the contract-signing ceremony was attended by Kommer Damen as well as Josien Damen, Rene Berkvens and Arnout Damen.

The rapid delivery of the FCS 5009 is the result of a stock vessel being available at Damens Song Cam shipyard in Vietnam. Following the final fitting out she will depart Vietnam and make the passage to Mexico on her own keel via Hawaii and the Panama Canal.The NYK Nebula rescued a Canadian-French sailor on board a yacht in the North Atlantic Ocean that had suffered a torn sail.

The containership reached the yacht within two and half hours of receiving a distress call requesting urgent assistance and successfully rescued the sailor on board the vessel.

ONE said that on completion of the rescue the NYK Nebula continued on her voyage to Southampton, and no delay in its schedule resulted from the rescue.Unlike other successful trials involving degrees of shipboard automation, the passage was completed fully autonomously, using sensor fusion and artificial intelligence to avoid potential collision hazards en route and the meticulous docking of the vessel, all without human intervention.

Pointing out that this was the first time that a fully autonomous vessel had navigated around obstacles using its own systems, Makinen said that the voyage was a clear demonstration of shippings direction of travel. Contrasting the successful passage with vehicle automation, Makinen noted key differences: this was not merely cruise control, park assist, or driving from A to B. This was complete autonomy on a real-time voyage, addressing potential hazards en route.

Oskar Levander, Rolls-Royces ship autonomy guru, said that the successful voyage demonstrated that new guidelines from the IMO on autonomous operation were now needed as a matter of urgency. His earlier prediction that the first successful autonomous voyage would be completed by 2020 had been beaten, he said, demonstrating the accelerating speed of development.

Read more: A commercial reality check for autonomous shipping in 2018

He pointed out that autonomous operation on deep-sea routes using wind-assisted bulk carriers sailing more slowly, for example, could potentially yield fuel savings of 50-60%. This could make the IMOs 2050 carbon reduction targets potentially achievable, he said.

Details of the guest list were not revealed but representatives of key maritime sectors were known to be present. They included ship operators, designers and builders, ports, cargo owners, regulators, marine technologists and seagoing personnel. Rolls-Royce Marine is working with a number of key industry partners in the development of autonomous technology.

Levander remarked specifically on the interest shown by cargo owners. If the shipowners customer wants it, then the shipowner wants it, he said, adding that some of shippings end users were interested in having more control over cargo movement.Prime Minister Pedro Sanchezs Socialists may lose control of the southern Spanish region of Andalusia after the center-right Ciudadanos party on Monday ruled out any coalition with them after an inconclusive election.

Although the Socialists topped the poll, their position severely weakened in a region that they have governed since the end of Francisco Francos dictatorship while far-right Vox party won 12 seats, the first far-right electoral success since Francos death.

Ciudadanos candidate Juan Marin rejected a coalition with the Socialists and said during an interview on national radio that he would present himself to lead the region after his party won 21 seats in the 109 seat parliament.

We wont support a government of (regional Socialist leader) Susana Diaz or with the Socialist party. Theyve lost the confidence of the Andalusia people and so that possibility doesnt exist, Marin said.

The Socialists took national leadership in June after a winning a vote of no-confidence against the previous conservative Peoples Party (PP) government following a slew of corruption charges.

However, Prime Minister Sanchez rules the country with a minority government that has struggled to garner opposition party support to pass any meaningful laws since taking power, including next years budget.

Sanchez has said he aims to take the legislature through to 2020, though Sundays upset will fuel calls for him to call an early national election.

In Andalusia, the Socialists took 33 seats - not enough to form a government without a coalition - the conservative Peoples Party (PP) 26 while the left-wing Adelante Andalusia won 17 seats.

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Press Release

December 3, 2018 SPEECH OF AKBAYAN SENATOR RISA HONTIVEROS ON THE SENATE'S

RATIFICATION OF THE POSITIVE DISCIPLINE ACT Mr. President, honored colleagues. It is my honor to submit to this honorable chamber the Bicameral Conference Committee Report on the disagreeing provisions of Senate Bill No. 1477 and House Bill No. 8239, on the positive and nonviolent discipline of children. With the agreed version between the Senate and House panels, we seek to protect children from all forms of physical and mental abuse, and injury, maltreatment or exploitation as they are used in the context of discipline. Mr. President, it is in this light that I would like to move that the entire joint explanatory statement of the Bicameral Conference Committee be put into the records. May I present some of its important features: 1. It recognizes and upholds the right of children as human beings to equal protection of the law, and ensures their protection from all forms of physical and mental violence; 2. It promotes positive and nonviolent discipline of children at home, in schools, in workplaces, and alternative care systems by encouraging behavior change in adults which shall be complemented with the necessary structural support such as social programs that will provide necessary support for the child, parents, and other child caregivers; 3. It respects the responsibilities, rights and duties of parents and other persons responsible for the child, and provides support and an enabling environment for parents to fulfill their parental responsibilities in a manner consistent with the evolving capacities of children; 4. It ensures the observance of international standards of child protection, especially those found in international conventions and treaties to which the Philippines is a party to. Mr. President, with the ratification of this Bicameral Report we look forward to raising our children in a manner that is both loving and caring, as it is nonviolent. Maraming salamat, Mr. President.PGG Wrightson's $434 million sale of its seeds business to Danish cooperative DLF Seeds has hit a hurdle with the Commerce Commission uneasy about the potential concentration of power in the ryegrass seeds market.

The antitrust regulator has issued a letter of issues outlining its concerns about the proposed deal. At this stage it's not satisfied the transaction wouldn't let DLF raise prices or reduce the quality to customers by taking out a competitor in the production and supply of ryegrass seeds. The letter isn't the final say and the regulator wants submissions from interested parties this month. A decision is due by Feb. 14.

The commission said the analysis of current market shares probably understates the importance of DLF's research and development programme, which has successfully developed novel ryegrass endophytes and high-performing ryegrass cultivars specifically for New Zealand conditions.

"Our preliminary view is that DLF is a close competitor to PGW Seeds in the market for the production and supply of ryegrass and is generating competitive tension which may not be replicated by other competitors that have relatively small market shares," Commerce Commission senior investigator Andy Gallagher said in the letter.

Because it takes 10 to 15 years to get a product ready for commercial release, the regulator said it was unlikely a new entrant could constrain the enlarged entity.

The commission said it's also assessing whether imported turf seeds are a viable competitor to the combined business.

DLF cited its research capability as making it a strong potential suitor of the New Zealand firm in its application for clearance of the deal. It said that scientific focus made it a better buyer than rival bidders because it was in a stronger position to take advantage of opportunities in genomic selection and endophyte technology.

Wrightson shareholders overwhelmingly backed the sale of the seeds division, of which $292 million is set to be returned to investors through a share buyback if it goes ahead.

The deal was judged fair to minority shareholders, although the New Zealand Shareholders' Association opposed it saying the short-term gain for investors was offset by the remaining business being half the size of, and inferior to, the seeds unit.

Wrightson has retained First NZ Capital to review options for the remaining businesses, capital requirements and shareholding structure.

The firm's cornerstone shareholder Agria Corp owns 50.2 percent of the rural services firm. That stake became problematic when the Overseas Investment Office said it was reviewing the company's 'good character' status due to an ongoing probe by the US Securities and Exchange Commission over the accuracy of disclosures and accusations of share price manipulation.

Agria's principal Alan Lai stepped down as chair of Wrightson ahead of the Oct. 30 annual meeting, with Joo Hai Lee appointed as interim chair.

Wrightson shares were unchanged at 57 cents.

(BusinessDesk)

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A2 Milk is confident it will meet all new Chinese cross-border e-commerce requirements affecting the sale of its Platinum infant formula in that country on or before March 31 next year.

Chinas government has extended the grace period for foreign companies to meet these new requirements to that date from Jan. 1.

The new requirements include English label products that comply with country of origin regulations can continue to be sold in China through e-commerce channels if they provide the consumer access to an electronic Chinese translation of the packaging label as well as notification that the products comply with regulations in the country of origin but not necessarily with those of China.

Consumers will be required to electronically acknowledge their understanding of these notifications before placing an order.

Such products must have adequate traceability systems, return and exchange services, product recall systems, product quality and safety risk prevention and control mechanisms and consumer dispute handling processes.

They must have real-time reporting of transaction, payment and logistics information electronically to China Customs.

The company welcomes this further guidance, which continues to demonstrate the Chinese governments support of this channel with a strong focus on improving channel transparency and protecting the rights and safety of consumers, A2 said in a statement.

The detailed implementation policy guidelines issued on Nov. 30 are consistent with the A2 Milk Companys market interpretations expressed in market announcements on Sept. 3 and Nov. 22, it said.

In the year ended June, 25.3 percent, or $233.6 million, of A2 Milks total sales were directly into China and other Asian countries through bricks-and-mortar mother and baby stores as well as through e-commerce channels such as Alibabas Tmall.

However, a fair chunk  the exact numbers arent disclosed  of A2s sales in Australia and New Zealand, which totalled $656.6 million in the year ended June, were destined for China through the Daigou or grey-market trade.

The majority of A2s $724.2 million Platinum sales are ultimately in China.

The shares rose 3.9 percent to $10.75 in early trading today.

(BusinessDesk)

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New Zealand shares were led higher by exporter A2 Milk as cooling trade tensions between China and the US allayed fears of slowing global growth and boosted stock markets across Asia.

The S&P/NZX 50 index gained 52.55 points, or 0.6 percent, to 8,876.09. Within the index, 22 stocks rose, 24 fell and four were unchanged. Turnover was $96 million.

Stocks across Asia rose, with New Zealand the first market to open after Chinese and US presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump agreed to refrain from escalating their trade dispute and tried to find common ground. The gains were broad-based, including growth-orientated stocks, firms typically held for reliable dividends, and the largest and most actively traded companies.

"There was good strength generally across the market based on the progress seen out of China and the US trade negotiations," said James Lindsay, a portfolio manager at Nikko Asset Management. "That's good news to see some progress."

Exporter A2 Milk rose 5.4 percent to $10.91 on slightly higher than average volumes after saying it will meet China's new cross-border e-commerce requirements affecting its sales of Platinum infant formula. Government officials extended the grace period to let foreign firms comply by March 31 next year.

Pushpay Holdings, which relies on North American markets, increased 0.6 percent to $3.32 on average volumes, although exporter Fisher & Paykel Healthcare fell 0.4 percent to $13.25 in light trading.

Courier and document management firm Freightways increased 2.3 percent on light volumes to $7.16.

Global logistics firm Mainfreight rose 1 percent to $30.60 in typically light trading, while national carrier Air New Zealand increased 0.7 percent to $3.10 on a quarter of its average volumes.

Spark New Zealand advanced 1.1 percent to a record close $4.275. It was the most traded stock with 2.5 million shares changing hands, below its 90-day average of 2.9 million. Meridian Energy slipped 0.2 percent to $3.30 on 1.8 million shares and Kiwi Property Group declined 1.8 percent to $1.36 on volume of 1.5 million shares.

Argosy Property rose 0.9 percent to $1.17 on bigger than normal volume of 1.1 million shares. Genesis Energy fell 2.2 percent to $2.505 on 1.1 million shares - more than three times its average volume.

Tourism Holdings rose 1.4 percent to $5 in light trading after negotiations for a potential sale of some New Zealand assets ended when the suitor unsuccessfully tried to get a lower price.

Z Energy fell 0.5 percent $5.72 on half its average volume after the government confirmed it will order the Commerce Commission to investigate the retail fuel market.

Gentrack Group fell 2.8 percent to $5.83 in light trading while Sky Network Television declined 2.1 percent to $2.30, also on smaller volumes than usual.

Outside the benchmark index, TIL Logistics was unchanged at $1.62 after acknowledging potential strike action at its petrol tanker unit.

Hallenstein Glasson fell 2.9 percent after the retailer said it faced tough trading conditions. Seventeen-week sales rose 4.8 percent from a year earlier, down from the 7.2 percent growth the firm reported after eight weeks.

PGG Wrightson dropped 3.5 percent to 55 cents after the Commerce Commission outlined competition concerns over the sale of its seeds unit to Danish cooperative DLF Seeds.

(BusinessDesk)

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Egypt's Finance Minister Mohamed Mait has said that the government has managed to achieve an initial surplus of EGP 2 billion in the fiscal year 2017/18, adding that the state is targeting an initial surplus of 2 percent during the current fiscal year.

Mait said that Egypt has been registering a deficit for the past 15 years, while borrowing to provide food and drink and to cover essential expenses.

The minister also said that he expects the issuance of new sovereign bonds in the first quarter of 2019/20, pointing out that the ministry is working to diversify markets covered by the new offerings.

He added that the ministry issued sovereign bonds in USD and euros last February and April, and that it is studying the issuance of sovereign bonds in other currencies, although no decision has been taken yet in this regard.

Mait affirmed that the ministry has paid EGP 1.2 billion from the state treasury to the Export Development Fund during the past weeks, including EGP 500 million in the last week.

Mait also said that the ministry is prepared to release the portfolio of state companies, whose stakes will be offered on the stock exchange; however, the current state of the companies on the market does not fulfil requirements set by the cabinet.

Mait said that foreign exchange reserves have increased to cover nine months of imports, a rate that has not been achieved in the history of Egypt.

Last July, Egypt's finance ministry announced that the general budget achieved an initial surplus for the first time in more than 10 years, compared to a deficit of EGP 47 billion during the same period in the previous fiscal year.

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The United Arab Emirates said on Monday Doha's decision to leave OPEC was a reflection of the decline of its influence.

"The political aspect of Qatar's decision to quit OPEC is an admission of the decline of its role and influence in light of its political isolation," Anwar Gargash, UAE minister of state for foreign affairs, said in a tweet.

Doha, one of OPEC's smallest oil producers but the world's biggest liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter, said earlier on Monday it was quitting OPEC from January to focus on its gas ambitions.

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Trump says US-China ties make 'BIG leap forward'



Washington, Dec 3 (AFP) Dec 03, 2018



US President Donald Trump boasted Monday that US relations have taken a "BIG leap forward" with his meeting in Argentina with President Xi Jinping.

"Very good things will happen. We are dealing from great strength, but China likewise has much to gain if and when a deal is completed. Level the field!" he said in an early morning tweet.

Trump, who joined Xi in calling a truce on an intensifying trade war between their two powerhouse countries, touted a roll-back in Chinese tariffs on US-made cars.

At their dinner meeting in Buenos Aires, the two leaders agreed to suspend any new tariffs and give negotiators 90 days to strike a deal, sending stock markets soaring.

"My meeting in Argentina with President Xi of China was an extraordinary one. Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward!" Trump said.

"Farmers will be a very BIG and FAST beneficiary of our deal with China. They intend to start purchasing agricultural product immediately. We make the finest and cleanest product in the World, and that is what China wants. Farmers, I LOVE YOU!" he said.Chinese, Russian diplomats expand spying in Czech Republic: agency



Prague, Dec 3 (AFP) Dec 03, 2018



The Czech intelligence agency said Monday that Russian and Chinese diplomats intensified their espionage activities on Czech soil in 2017 thanks to Russia's large embassy in Prague and China's hefty financial resources.

"The intensity of intelligence activities by Chinese spies with a diplomatic cover in the Czech Republic and intelligence activities against Czech targets managed from China has grown remarkably," the Czech Security Information Service (BIS) said in its 2017 annual report published on Monday.

Chinese spies are seeking to disrupt the European Union through Czech entities, it added, saying they also focused on the defence and interior ministries and on economic and scientific espionage.

"China has almost unlimited capital which it is able to offer to foreign companies in exchange for access to intellectual property," the report said.

As for Russia, its strategy was designed to undermine NATO and the EU by weakening their individual members.

"The size of the Russian diplomatic mission and its high infiltration by people with links to Russian intelligence services increases the risk linked with the indiscretion of Czech citizens, namely politicians and civil servants," the report said.

The report singled out disinformation websites and acquisitions of Czech companies by Russian investors as tools that the Kremlin uses for espionage.

Czechs elected the pro-Russian, pro-Chinese veteran leftwinger Milos Zeman for president for a second term in January.

Part of communist Czechoslovakia before 1989, the Czech Republic, which has a population of 10.6 million people, joined NATO in 1999 and the EU in 2004.W.House: Expect China to roll back punitive farm tariffs 'quickly'



Washington, Dec 3 (AFP) Dec 03, 2018



The United States expects China will remove retaliatory tariffs on US farm products "quickly" as part of the trade truce reached over the weekend, White House economic advisor Larry Kudlow said Monday.

Beijing retaliated with steep duties on US crops in the trade war which has seen President Donald Trump hit $250 billion in Chinese goods with tariffs of 10-25 percent.

As a result, soybean exports to China have plunged, harming US farmers.

"My expectation is that China will roll back those tariffs quickly," Kudlow told reporters.

Kudlow stressed that Chinese officials repeatedly said the trade commitments announced after Trump's dinner with China's President Xi Jinping would be implemented "immediately." But he acknowledged that it was unclear what that would mean.

He said it would give the weekend deal "more credibility" if Beijing followed through with some immediate steps.

"Let's get rolling folks. Today is Monday. The dinner was Saturday," Kudlow said.

Likewise he said there was a commitment to remove China's punitive tariffs on US auto exports, and while there was no agreement on the final level "I expect those tariffs to go to zero."

The leaders committed to a 90-day truce in the trade confrontation, and while Kudlow said the "history is not great" with China on trade, he was optimistic.

"We've never been close to this."Page Content

During the meeting, it is expected that the Management of Scotiabank will elucidate and share pertinent information based on the announcement of the sale of its operations on Sint Maarten and eight other Caribbean territories to the Republic Financial Holdings Limited (Republic Bank).

Representatives of the Central Bank of Curacao & Sint Maarten (CBCS) are also invited to attend the meeting. On the website of the Central Bank of Curacao & Sint Maarten it states, that one of its key functions is, to supervise banking and other credit institutions to primarily promote the stability, integrity, efficiency, safety, and soundness of the financial sectors of the countries Curacao and Sint Maarten in general and to safeguard the interest of the depositors and other creditors of the banking and other credit institutions in particular.

Prime Minister Leona Romeo Marlin on behalf of the Council of Ministers said, I am confident that the Central Bank will execute its function with respect to this matter, to ensure that the interests and wellbeing of all stakeholders including the employees and clients of Scotiabank are fully adhered to base on the laws that govern Sint Maarten.

PHILIPSBURG  On Sunday December 2 nd Prime Minister Leona Romeo Marlin made it known that a meeting between the Management of the Bank of Nova Scotia and the Council of Ministers is schedule to take place on December 7 th at the Government Administration Building in Philipsburg.The competition is organised in cooperation with Radio and Television magazine and China Today magazine

General Director of the Chinese Cultural Centre in Cairo and Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy Shi Yuewen handed out the awards of the first edition of the I and China journalism competition at the Chinese Cultural Centre on Saturday.

The competition is organised in cooperation with Radio and Television magazine and China Today magazine. The number of competitors reached 279 people, with 30 winners.

The Chinese cultural counsellor had suggested the idea of the competition after its great success in Algeria.

During the ceremony, Ismail El-Shashtawi, representing the National Media Council, and Liu Yongfeng, deputising for Chinese Ambassador Song Aiqua, presented the first prize  a trip to China -- to Ahmed Zaref Daif and Sabry Nasra.

The head of the Ministry of Cultures Cultural Development Fund, Fathi Abdel-Wahab, presented the second prize to three winners, worth $2,000, as well as 20 other smaller prizes.

Essam Sharaf

Members of the jury were also given honorary shields of recognition by Essam Sharaf, former prime minister, and included Hussein Ismail, editor-in-chief of China Today magazine, Khaled Hanafi, editor-in-chief of Radio and Television magazine, writer and novelist Youssef El-Qaaid, head of the Journalists Syndicate and chairman of the Al-Ahram board Abdel-Mohsen Salama, Chinese cultural advisor Shi Yuewen, and Mohamed El-Baz, chairman of the board and editor of Al-Dostor newspaper.

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System error

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context: ... 21: </%method> 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: </%perl> 28: <table width="90%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> 29: <tr> ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25

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context: ... 21: </%method> 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: </%perl> 28: <table width="90%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> 29: <tr> ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25

/usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:951

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Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 129 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 160 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fe09eddb8)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe0907c48)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 138 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fe09eddb8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1305 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1295 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 958 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe0907c48)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 138 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fe0a3de18)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1303 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1295 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 484 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 484 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 436 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe0907c48)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe0907c48)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fe0517f10)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe05172b0)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fe05172b0)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0The exhibition showcases the senior projects of the graphic design programme

The American University in Cairo's Sharjah Gallery will host an exhibition titled Zoom in Keda! showcasing the work of the graphic design programmes senior students.

The projects include branding, way-finding systems, social awareness campaigns, fashion product designs, and technology and site specific designs.

It is curated by artist Haytham Nawar, the graphic design programme director at AUC, and founder of Cairotronica digital art festival.

"As with the previous three exhibitions, the title builds on graphic design in Egyptian vernacular culture. Many of their projects highlight solutions for social and educational problems," Nawar commented on the exhibition.

Programme:

The exhibition opens on 2 December at 5pm and will run until 20 December

Open daily from 9am to 5pm

Sharjah Art Gallery, AUC New Campus, Road 90, New Cairo

For more arts and culture news and updates, follow Ahram Online Arts and Culture on Twitter at @AhramOnlineArts and on Facebook at Ahram Online: Arts & Culture

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SpaceX launches 64 satellites at once



Washington, Dec 3 (AFP) Dec 03, 2018



SpaceX launched its Falcon 9 rocket on Monday, sending an unusual payload into space -- 64 satellites at the same time, a US record.

And the company headed by US tech billionaire Elon Musk marked another milestone in its bid to make rockets more re-usable, like airplanes: the blast-off used a recycled booster for the third time.

California-based SpaceX has landed more than 30 of these boosters back on Earth, and has begun re-using them on subsequent missions.

In the past, companies have typically allowed rocket parts costing many millions of dollars to fall like junk into the ocean.

Monday's landing of the first stage was flawless, like many before it.

Several minutes after liftoff, the tall, white portion of the rocket -- known formally as the first stage -- separated from the second stage.

The booster then fired its engines and made a controlled, upright landing on a platform in the Pacific Ocean, video from SpaceX's live webcast showed.

Meanwhile, the second stage pressed deeper into space, carrying 15 micro-satellites and 49 CubeSats belonging to 34 different clients including public, private and university sources from 17 different countries including South Korea, France and Kazakhstan.

The launch was chartered by a company called Spaceflight, which specializes in space "rideshares," or putting multiple satellites on the same rocket.

Microsatellites weigh a few dozen pounds (kilograms) and CubeSats are even smaller.

The satellites will be placed into orbit over the next several hours.

Not all the clients have scientific missions.

The Nevada Museum of Art sent up a sculpture called "Orbital Reflector" by artist Trevor Paglen.

The reflective, inflatable sculpture is designed to eject from its satellite and orbit the earth "for several weeks before disintegrating upon re-entry into Earth's atmosphere," the museum said.

ico/ksh/ftTrump to grant Kim Jong Un's wishes after denuclearisation: S. Korea president



Hong Kong, Dec 2 (AFP) Dec 02, 2018



US President Donald Trump will grant North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un his wishes if he delivers on denuclearisation, the South Korean president said Sunday, following talks on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

As officials work to arrange a second meeting between Trump and Kim, South Korea's Moon Jae-in relayed a message to reporters given to him by the US president to pass on to the North's leader.

"And the message was that President Trump has a very friendly view of Chairman Kim and that he likes him, and so he wishes Chairman Kim would implement the rest of their agreement and that he would make what Chairman Kim wants come true," Moon told the Yonhap news agency while en route to New Zealand.

Speaking in Buenos Aires, where he discussed the situation on the Korean peninsula with Moon, Trump said he hoped to organize a follow-up meeting with Kim for early 2019.

"We're getting along very well. We have a good relationship," he said.

When asked Saturday if he would ever host the North Korean leader in the United States, Trump replied: "At some point, yeah."

Trump and Kim held a historic summit in Singapore earlier this year, signing a vaguely worded deal on denuclearisation.

But progress has generally been slow, with the two countries sparring over the exact meaning of the agreement.

US officials insist on the complete, verified and irreversible denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula before sanctions are lifted.

The North has rejected demands for what it calls "unilateral" disarmament, and has instead sought unspecified reciprocal US measures in a gradual process.

Differences also remain between Washington and Seoul on how to proceed with Kim, as the dovish Moon favors more robust engagement with the North.

North and South Korea have begun to remove landmines and destroy military bunkers at parts of their common border as part of efforts to improve long-strained relations.Syria accuses coalition of missile strikes on its army positions: state media



Damascus, Dec 2 (AFP) Dec 02, 2018



Syria on Sunday accused the anti-jihadist international coalition, led by the United States, of launching missiles against Syrian army positions in the centre of the country, the official Sana news agency said.

"The American coalition forces launched around 8:00 pm (1800 GMT) this evening several missiles against some positions of our forces in the Ghorab mountains south of Sukhna," causing only "damage to equipment," Sana said, citing a military source.

According to the monitoring Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, coalition forces positioned in the Al-Tanf region fired "more than 14 missiles" at a Syrian army convoy as it was passing through the desert in the far east of Homs province.

"The group was lost in the middle of the desert around 35 kilometres from the Al-Tanf base" of US and British troops, the Observatory's director Rami Abdel Rahmane told AFP.

The United States generally uses this base to launch its strikes against the Islamic State (IS) jihadists. It has also been used in the past to train Syrian opposition fighters.

Last year there were clashes in the region between Syrian regime forces and those supported by the coalition.

Damascus has called for the US forces to leave this area of Syria near the border with Iraq and Jordan.Air Force One collects Bush casket for days-long homage



Houston, Dec 3 (AFP) Dec 03, 2018



America's national farewell to George H.W. Bush begins Monday with the transfer of his casket aboard the presidential plane from Texas to Washington, where he will lie in state in the rotunda of the US Capitol.

The 41st US president died Friday at age 94, at his home in Houston -- "a very gentle and peaceful passing," his lifelong friend and advisor James Baker said Sunday on ABC's "This Week."

Bush -- only the second president to see his son follow him to the Oval Office -- will be honored with four days of services and tributes in Washington and in Texas, where he will be buried on Thursday.

The high point of the commemorations will come Wednesday with a state funeral at Washington National Cathedral -- the first presidential funeral since Gerald Ford died in 2006.

Bush was a decorated World War II fighter pilot, former head of the Central Intelligence Agency, and vice president to Ronald Reagan before winning the White House.

President Donald Trump -- who has often clashed with the Bush family -- has declared Wednesday a national day of mourning, and said he will attend the funeral.



- Lying in state -



The week's events begin at 1630 GMT Monday, when Bush's remains are to be flown aboard the presidential Boeing 747 -- made available at Trump's direction -- from Houston to Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.

By tradition, the plane is only known as Air Force One when the sitting president is on board.

Family spokesman Jim McGrath said the flights to carry Bush are being dubbed "Special Air Mission 41."

"A beautiful day In Texas -- 'ceiling and visibility unlimited,' Mr. President," he wrote -- using a phrase that Bush held dear from his time in the Navy, and one used by his family and friends to discreetly spread the news of his death.

Bush's son George -- the 43rd president of the United States -- and other loved ones are expected to travel on the presidential jet.

Also reportedly expected to make the trip is his service dog Sully -- McGrath posted a touching photo of the yellow Labrador near Bush's casket on Sunday with the phrase "Mission Complete."

After a speech from Vice President Mike Pence, Bush will lie in state in the US Capitol from Monday evening until Wednesday morning, under the watchful gaze of an around-the-clock honor guard.

Thousands are expected to pay their respects.

The casket will then be transported to the cathedral for Wednesday's funeral service -- the fourth held there for a former president.

Dozens of foreign leaders and US luminaries are expected.

Former Canadian prime minister Brian Mulroney told Politico he will deliver one of several eulogies, at Bush's request.

The casket will then be flown back to Houston, where the former head of state will lie in repose at St Martin's Episcopal Church -- where the Bushes worshipped for decades -- until Thursday's funeral service.

The remains will then be transported by train for interment at the George Bush Presidential Library in College Station, Texas.

Bush will be buried next to his wife Barbara, who died in April, and their daughter Robin, who died of leukemia at age three.



- Tributes from friends -



Baker, who served Bush as secretary of state, joined others in paying warm tribute on Sunday television talk shows.

Baker called him "far and away the best one-term president we have ever had," alluding to Bush's single biggest political failure -- his loss in the 1992 election to Bill Clinton.

Baker instead emphasized his friend's foreign policy successes: navigating the end of the Cold War, negotiating two nuclear arms reduction treaties, and summoning a global coalition to eject Iraqi troops from Kuwait in the first Gulf War.

Colin Powell, who was chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during that war, said he was confident in Bush's leadership because "he knew what combat was all about. He knew it meant the death of people... He wanted to avoid a war."

The former president had struggled for years with Parkinson's disease, which left him wheelchair-bound and often hospitalized -- including after Barbara's death.

Last week, things took a decided turn for the worse, Baker said on ABC.

When an aide told Bush that Baker was visiting Friday, "he perked up. He opened his eyes. He looked at me, he says, 'Hey, Bake. Where we going?'"

"We're going to heaven," Baker said.

Bush replied: "Good, that's where I want to go."

Baker said Bush's last words, in a phone conversation with son George, were: "I love you, too."Egyptian band Massar Egbari have released their anticipated album 'El-Album' on Thursday after weeks of an ad campaign sponsored by a prominent telecom company.

"Congratulations for you and us, most beautiful fans. We walked together in the journey of [making] this album. It was a long process [because we wanted] to please you with good songs you would like and we continue our road together with it. Thanks for your support all the way," Massar Egbari wrote on their official Facebook page.

With all its music videos directed by Taimour Taimour, El-Album, which comes out three years after their latest 'Touaa w Teoum', features collaborations with many other well-known artists including MTM, Sary Hany, Mohamed Sakr, Amir Hedayah, Shergo Mikawi, Hesham Galal and Ahmed Saleh.

Many poets wrote the lyrics in 'El-Album,' including Amaar Mostafa, Mohamed Ibrahim, Doaa Abdel-Wahab, Mamduh Fawzy, and Hazem Gamal.

The band was founded in 2005 by members Ayman Massoud (keyboards), Hani El-Dakkak (guitar and lead vocal), Ahmed Hafez (bass guitar) and Tamer Attallah (drums), before Mahmoud Siam (guitar) joined in 2008.

Massar Egbari  as written in their bio  plays a form of alternative Egyptian music, mixing rock, jazz and blues with some Oriental music. The band is developing regional and international fame.

The band will perform in two successive concerts at Bibliotheca Alexandrina's Arts Centre on 7 December. Both concerts have been sold out in advance, according to the band.

For more arts and culture news and updates, follow Ahram Online Arts and Culture on Twitter at @AhramOnlineArts and on Facebook at Ahram Online: Arts & Culture

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Egypt president opens first arms exhibition in Cairo



Cairo, Dec 3 (AFP) Dec 03, 2018



Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi inaugurated Monday the first arms fair organised in Cairo, where hundreds of companies are exhibiting, state TV footage showed.

Sisi was shown cutting the ribbon along with French Defence Minister Florence Parly to open the exhibition, held on the outskirts of Cairo.

The three-day show by one of the region's top military powers will be attended by officials from 40 countries, according to Egyptian authorities.

After the opening, Sisi was taken on a guided tour along with military officials of the massive fair, where according to authorities around 400 companies are exhibiting.

"The army... seeks to acquire strength from its cooperation with countries that value security and peace to roll back all forms of aggression on Egyptian soil," Defence Minister Mohamed Ahmed Zaki said at the opening ceremony.

He was due to hold talks with his French counterpart and the Egyptian president later on Monday, according to a statement by the French defence ministry.

Military cooperation between Cairo and Paris has significantly increased since Sisi took office in 2014.

The following year Egypt signed deals worth six billion euros to purchase 24 Rafale fighter jets from France, as well as other military hardware such as Mistral warships and missiles.

International human rights organisations have long accused Egypt of using weapons originated in Europe against civilians to suppress opposition and activists, accusations Cairo has systemically denied.NATO treads carefully in Ukraine-Russia sea spat



Brussels, Dec 3 (AFP) Dec 03, 2018



NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Monday demanded Russia end its naval standoff with Ukraine, but refused to pledge new support for Kiev, as the alliance sought to avoid escalating the crisis.

Foreign ministers from the 29 allies will meet Ukraine's foreign minister on Tuesday to discuss last week's incident in the Sea of Azov, in which the Russian navy seized three Ukrainian ships and 24 sailors.

Ministers will also tackle the Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty, which Washington has announced it will abandon in response to Russian violations, with Stoltenberg promising a "measured, proportionate" response.

European leaders used weekend G20 meetings in Buenos Aires to press Russian President Vladimir Putin over the Ukraine spat, but Western powers are wary of taking steps that might inflame the situation.

Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko looks likely to be disappointed in his call for NATO to deploy naval vessels to the Sea of Azov, an offshoot of the Black Sea.

Stoltenberg repeated a call for Russia to release the sailors and ships and allow unhindered access to Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov.

He said he expected ministers to "convey a very clear message to Russia" but refused to offer any fresh practical support measures for Kiev, simply outlining the ways NATO has raised its profile in the Black Sea.

"NATO has already increased our presence in the Black Sea -- significantly more days with NATO ships at sea this year than last year, and we have more air policing... more presences in the Black Sea in general," Stoltenberg told reporters.

"We will of course closely monitor the situation in that region also in light of what we saw a few days ago."

Last week's incident was the first open military confrontation between Russia and Ukraine since 2014, when Moscow annexed the Crimea peninsula and pro-Kremlin separatists in the east entered into conflict with Ukrainian forces.NATO treads carefully in Ukraine-Russia sea spat



Brussels, Dec 3 (AFP) Dec 03, 2018



NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Monday demanded Russia end its naval standoff with Ukraine, but refused to pledge new support for Kiev as the alliance seeks to avoid escalating the crisis.

Foreign ministers from the 29 allies will meet Ukraine's foreign minister on Tuesday to discuss last week's incident in the Sea of Azov, in which Russian forces seized three Ukrainian ships and 24 sailors.

Ministers will also tackle the Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty, a major Cold War accord which Washington has announced it will abandon in response to Russian violations, with Stoltenberg promising a "measured, proportionate" response.

European leaders used weekend G20 meetings in Buenos Aires to press Russian President Vladimir Putin over the Ukraine spat, but Western powers are wary of taking steps that might inflame the situation.

Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko looks likely to be disappointed in his call for NATO to deploy naval vessels to the Sea of Azov, a gulf of the Black Sea between Crimea and the Ukrainian and Russian mainlands.

Stoltenberg repeated a call for Russia to release the sailors and ships and allow unhindered access to Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov.

He said he expected ministers to "convey a very clear message to Russia" but refused to offer any fresh practical support measures for Kiev, simply outlining the ways NATO has raised its profile in the Black Sea.

"NATO has already increased our presence in the Black Sea -- significantly more days with NATO ships at sea this year than last year, and we have more air policing... more presences in the Black Sea in general," Stoltenberg told reporters.

"We will of course closely monitor the situation in that region also in light of what we saw a few days ago."

A European diplomat said that no boats would be sent in response to the Ukrainian request and that the idea had not even been formally suggested at NATO. Ukraine is a "partner country" for NATO but not a full member.

Last week's incident was the first open military confrontation between Russia and Ukraine since 2014, when Moscow annexed the Crimea peninsula and pro-Kremlin separatists in the east entered into conflict with Ukrainian forces.



- More time on INF? -



Western powers say Russia has developed and deployed a missile system that breaches the 1987 accord, which banned ground-launched missiles with a range of 500 and 5,500 kilometres.

Stoltenberg said the mobile, nuclear-capable Russian missiles could hit European cities "with little or no warning". He said NATO would not "mirror what Russia does plane by plane, missile by missile" but would respond in its own way to assure the defence of the alliance.

There have been suggestions that US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo may use the NATO meeting to formally end Washington's involvement in the INF, but on Monday his boss, President Donald Trump, proposed talks with Russia and China to halt what he called an "uncontrollable" arms race.

And diplomats said they may give Russia more time to come back into compliance with the INF treaty -- though the US has been fruitlessly pressing Moscow to do so for several years.

"The Russians must understand that they must respect their commitments and that they have very little time left to get back in line," one diplomat said.

Another diplomat said the ministerial meeting would likely agree an "exit schedule" for the US to quit the INF treaty, indicating that it "won't be abrupt".Afghan blast claims life of fourth US soldier



Washington, Dec 3 (AFP) Dec 03, 2018



A fourth US soldier has died as a result of a roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan last week, the Pentagon said Monday.

Sergeant Jason Mitchell McClary, 24, from Pennsylvania, died on Sunday, after being treated in a US military hospital in Germany, the Pentagon said in a statement.

His death takes the number of American military personnel to have been killed in Afghanistan this year to 13.

The November 27 attack saw an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated near Ghazni city in central Afghanistan.

Two other US troops and an American contractor were wounded in what was the deadliest single incident for US forces so far this year.US calls for EU sanctions on Iranian ballistic program



Washington, Dec 3 (AFP) Dec 03, 2018



The United States urged the European Union on Monday to apply sanctions targeting Iran's ballistic missile program, calling it a "grave and escalating threat."

Over the weekend, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo charged that Iran tested a medium-range missile capable of carrying multiple warheads and striking parts of Europe and the entire Middle East.

He said the test violated UN Security Council Resolution 2231, which endorsed the Iran nuclear deal signed by world powers with the Islamic republic.

In Paris, the French foreign ministry also condemned the Iranian missile test as "provocative and destabilizing," and noted that it was not in compliance with the UN resolution.

France "calls on Iran to immediately cease all activity linked to ballistic missiles conceived to carry nuclear weapons, including all launches using ballistic missile technology," it said.

Washington's Iran special envoy Brian Hook insisted that despite Tehran's assertions to the contrary, Iran's missile tests were not defensive in nature.

"We would like to see the European Union move sanctions that target Iran's missile program," Hook told reporters aboard Pompeo's plane as he traveled to Brussels for a NATO meeting.

Hook said President Donald Trump's campaign of "maximum pressure" on Tehran since withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal "can be effective if more nations can join us in those (sanctions)."

"It is a grave and escalating threat, and nations around the world, not just Europe, need to do everything they can to be targeting Iran's missile program," he added.

Hook said "progress" was being made on getting NATO allies to consider a proposal to target individuals and entities that play key roles in Iran's missile program.

The United States decided in May to withdraw from the 2015 nuclear deal and reimpose sanctions on Iran.

EU countries have denounced the move and are working to preserve the nuclear deal, even though they have also criticized Iranian positions on other matters.Optimization

Are you frustrated with a slow pc or a hard disk not performing as it should?

Try SLOW-PCfighter to speed up boot time on a slow PC, or try a free scan of FULL-DISKfighter to recover space on a full disk. The latest offering is DRIVERfighter to update your driver updater. Get complete PC optimization and extend the life of your PC with these must-have software tools.Havana, December 3, 2018 (SPS) - President of the Republic, Secretary General of the Polisario Front, Brahim Ghali, arrived Sunday evening in the Republic of Cuba for a three-day official visit, during which he will meet his Cuban counterpart and the highest authorities of this country.



The President of the Republic was received by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of CubaRogelio Sierra Diaz, accompanied by senior officials of the Cuban Government and the Ambassador of Cuba to the Sahrawi Republic, Clara Bolido.



On the agenda of the visit of the President of the Republic, official talks with the Cuban authorities and a visit in tribute to Jose Marti, the Cuban national hero.



The President of the Republic is accompanied by a delegation composed of Mansour Omar, Minister Delegate to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Latin America, Malainin Tghana, Ambassador to Cuba, and Abdati Breika, Counselor to the Presidency of the Republic.



Cuba and the Saharawi Republic have been establishing diplomatic relations since January 1980 and are bound by cooperation ties, particularly in the fields of health and education.



Thousands of young Sahrawis are trained in Cuba as technicians and specialists in various fields. (SPS)



062/SPS/TRAShares is the leading weekly publication for retail investors. It is packed with investment ideas, news and educational material to help build and run portfolios and get more from your money.

Shares puts on free Investor Events throughout the year across the country. They provide an opportunity for investors to learn more about companies on the stock market and hear from a range of investment experts including fund managers and Shares journalists.No-confidence votes: Why the Speaker was right By Priyanee Wijesekera View(s): View(s):

On November 14, 2018, Sri Lankas Parliament was summoned to meet pursuant to a summons issued by the President. The proclamation dissolving Parliament which was issued a few days earlier was suspended by the Supreme Court, making it mandatory for the House to meet on Novembet 14, as previously decreed.

The start of the session was preceded by a meeting of party representatives where they were informed of the proposed motion of no-confidence against the President and the Government of new Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.

No-confidence motions are admitted as no- date motions which are always given priority over other motions in the order paper. The challenge of a no-confidence is always met by a confident government in order to prove its legitimacy to govern the country.

By convention at the beginning of a new session of Parliament, the President would usually attend as the head of state and, had he done so, he would have been presiding and had full control of the proceedings. However, on this occasion, the President did not attend the session.

Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, who presided on this day, allowed a request for Standing Orders to be suspended and for the no-confidence motion to be moved and passed with a voice vote.

For those who argue that a voice vote is invalid, I quote below the relevant Standing Order, S.O.47:

(1) The question shall be put by the Speaker and the votes may be taken by voices ,Ayes and Noes and the result may be declared by the Speaker.

(2) Any member who is not agreeable with the decision of the Speaker may call for a division for a vote to be taken in any of the following methods as may be determined by the Speaker. In such case, the division bells shall be rung for five minutes and thereafter-

(a) a division shall be taken by counting the members, row by row, rising in their places in support or against the motion before the House;

(b) a division shall be taken by the use of the electronic vote recorder. The members shall press the appropriate button to indicate the decision of such member within the time period allowed by the Speaker

(c) a division shall be taken by the Secretary General asking each member separately as to how that member desires to vote and shall record the votes accordingly.

Therefore, the voice vote is the first type of vote to be taken in Parliament. If anyone challenges a voice vote, he should ask for a division and any other method of voting would take place. The Hansard and video recordings on this day do not indicate that any member challenged the voice vote.

This shows that the Speaker acted well within the Standing Orders. The orgy of hooliganism and thuggery as well as the damage caused to public property by some members are ample indication of the fact that the Government could not face a valid vote and was hell bent on disrupting the proceedings of the House.

Worse happenings were yet to come!

On November 19, when the House took up an amended motion of no-confidence at the request of the President, the government members were planning to prevent the session. While one member forcibly occupied the Speakers chair, others had come armed with chilli powder and other crude weapons. The Speaker had to be escorted to the chamber under heavy police cover. While members of the government physically attacked the Speaker and the police with chilli powder, water and furniture, the Sergeant-at-arms and the police officers guarded the Speaker at grave risk to themselves.

The Speaker then proceeded to suspend the Standing Orders and passed the amended no-confidence motion by a majority of votes with the government party once again not voting  and this time, too, no one challenged the voice vote.

On both occasions the Speaker adhered to the Standing Orders even under the most frightening circumstances and he is being abused for following the rules. If the Speakers ruling is disputed, a motion of no-confidence could be brought against him. Violence and bawdy behaviour is the resort of those who are short of arguments and is the method of the gutter.

(The writer is a retired Secretary General of Parliament and former Ambassador to Austria)S. Asian festival promotes rights through art View(s):

Art for Rights, the South Asia Human Rights Festival featuring several leading artistes from the region will be held from December 5 to 9 at the National Film Corporation premises in Colombo. The festival organised by Amnesty Intentional South Asia will include movies from the region, art installations that speak of human rights and a discussion forum wherein academics from anthropological and history disciplines will initiate a dialogue with youth participants on local footprint in human rights.

Another objective of the festival is to amplify the discussion on regional identity and human rights. An objective of the discussion is to encourage anthropologists, historians, artistes and academics to take the stage and initiate the conversation on human rights, not law and policy makers.

Through the festival, Amnesty will also build partnerships with local artistes in the country, and it will lay a foundation for the university students to engage with key human rights mechanisms.

In summary, the South Asian Human Rights Festival aims to achieve the following objectives:

Provide a platform for an academic discussion on local footprint in human rights.

Positively contribute to the youths engagement in human rights, and actively engage them in the discussion towards local footprint in human rights

Create artistic platforms to discuss human rights issues in South Asia

Demonstrate to the youth practical applications of human rights and its relevance

Build collaborative working partnerships with youth groups and activists and artistes in the region.

Several film screenings, too, will be held, with selected films from Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Nepal. Short films from Sri Lanka will be among them.Indielab Accelerator, the programme aimed at helping small and mid size indies develop and grow, has opened its 2019 applications round.

Indielab Accelerator offers 15 early and mid-stage indies a programme to grow their businesses, made up of growth masterclasses, global market insight and investment-readiness.

Along with the core accelerator programme from Indielab, there will be a separate pitching for investment event, all of which will be announced throughout the coming year.

As in previous years, Indielab Accelerator has pledged 50% of participants will be operating in the UKs nations and regions.

The BBC has increased its support to become a full sponsor. Channel 4 has also renewed its commitment to the 2019 programme, investing specifically from its Growth Fund and Nations and Regions departments.

Indielab Accelerator 2019 is also again being supported by the Mayor of Londons office through Film London.

The BBC, Channel 4 and Film London join Indielab Accelerators returning sponsors. These include independent distributor Banijay Rights, Barclays, law firm Harbottle & Lewis, media-investment specialist Ingenious and accounting consultants Ecovis Wingrave Yeats and Nyman Libson Paul.

Victoria Powell founder and CEO of Indielab said Now more than ever the content market is changing rapidly, with domestic spending generally accepted as flat and marked increases in global spend expected. The UK sector continues to look like a very good place for indies to do business, albeit under a somewhat changing set of rules. No matter which corner of the UK you are based in, there are significant opportunities out the for indies who want to grow. At Indielab we aim to give UK indies the edge by connecting them to the right insight, intel and network to achieve these successes.

Nadine Marsh-Edwards, co-founder of Greenacre Films and a 2018 Indielab participant, said: Indielab gives you time out to think about who you are as a company, what your ambitions are, and what you need to do to achieve them and when. It has changed the way I think about us as a business, rather than just a company that makes projects. It was six days very well spent. Greenacres film Been So Long, starring Micheala Coel and Arinze Kene, premiered on Netflix last month. It was produced in association the BFI and Channel 4.



As a result of the 2018 investment-readiness process, superindie all3media invested in TV and branded content indie Bullion Productions. In 2017, Indielab helped to guide three companies  Antidote Productions, Midnight Oil Pictures and Awesome Media & Investment  into investment and first-look distribution deals.

Share this storyYellow Bird UK, part of the Banijay Group, has optioned the TV rights to John Nivens novel Straight White Male.

Niven (Kill Your Friends, The Second Coming, The Sunshine Cruise Company) is to adapt the book himself.



The book tells the story of Irish writer Kennedy Marr who for years has lived the high life in L.A., womanising, writing movies, and spending every dollar he earns. Then a huge unpaid tax bill forces him to return to England, to accept a lucrative prize from the English department of a red brick university in deepest Warwickshire.



The series will be executive produced by Yellow Bird UKs Berna Levin (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Hidden and upcoming The Girl in the Spiders Web) and Luke Franklin (The Man in the High Castle, Ransom, Parades End).



John Niven said: Ive long thought that Straight White Male had all the ingredients for a great TV series, and that Kennedy Marrs singular approach to life and love is more relevant than ever. Getting the chance to develop the show with Yellow Bird UK, who share my passion for this character, feels ridiculously fortunate.



Berna Levin, Creative Director for Yellow Bird said: In his brilliant novel, John Niven not only skewers the crisis of contemporary masculinity in a compassionate, comic, and provocative way, but hes created one of the most memorable fictional anti-heroes of our time, Kennedy Marr. Kennedy often says what we all wish we could say, and his undeniable flaws mask a compelling, emotionally engaging character, who Im thrilled were bringing to life on screen.



Straight White Male is the second project from Yellow Bird UK following its recent announcement of Young Wallander, which has been commissioned by Netflix.

Share this storyTable of Contents

Introduction

Choosing a method for feeding their babies is one of the most important decisions expectant and new parents make. This decision can be even more complicated when the birthing parent is living with HIV. For those who may want to explore breastfeeding as an option, the information available to mothers living with HIV can be confusing.

When a woman has an undetectable viral load (not enough HIV in the blood for tests to measure), the chance that she will transmit HIV to her sexual partners is zero, and the chance that she will transmit HIV to her baby during pregnancy or birth is very low. However, while the risk of HIV transmission through breastfeeding when the mother's viral load is undetectable is also low, the level of risk is not zero as is the case with sexual transmission when the person with HIV has an undetectable viral load.

If you are a woman living with HIV in an area of the world where access to resources like clean water, refrigeration, and medical care are limited, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that you breastfeed if you are taking HIV drugs. A course of HIV drugs may also be recommended for the baby during breastfeeding. The reason for this recommendation is that, in such resource-limited settings (for instance, many areas of Africa or India), infants are more likely to develop diarrhea and other illnesses, and may die from these. Breast milk contains substances that protect and strengthen a child's immune system, even after they stop breastfeeding. Because of this, breast milk may help children to survive these health conditions. Furthermore, formula feeding may not be an option in these areas due to lack of funds to purchase it, clean water to mix it with (if the formula is powdered), or refrigeration to keep it fresh. Health authorities have determined that the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh the risks of HIV in areas where resources are constrained in this way.

If you are a woman living with HIV in a resource-rich region of the globe, such as the United States or Europe, you have likely been advised not to breastfeed your babies. HIV treatment guidelines written by health organizations like the US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), European AIDS Clinical Society (EACS), and the British HIV Association (BHIVA) all recommend that women living with HIV avoid breastfeeding. Infant formula (as well as clean water and refrigeration) tend to be readily available in these areas, and the chances of a baby dying from illnesses for which breast milk can provide protection is much lower. Therefore, these guidelines are based on the belief that the risk of a baby getting HIV from breast milk is not justified when parents can access safe alternatives.

However, parents in resource-rich areas may be aware of extensive research showing that breast milk is the best food for most babies, protecting a growing baby's health while satisfying all of their nutritional needs. There may also be emotional and cultural reasons why women may want to consider breastfeeding, even if they live in an area where formula is easily accessible. They may experience pressure from their families to breastfeed. Not breastfeeding may become a matter of unwanted disclosure of their HIV status if members of their communities question why they are using formula. If a woman has moved from a resource-limited country to a resource-rich area, she may wonder why she is being given a different set of instructions and potential restrictions in her new country.

The process of deciding how to feed your infant can be overwhelming for parents who are living with HIV. This fact sheet provides some of the information you may want to consider in that process.

HIV Transmission and Breastfeeding: What Do We Know (and Not Know)?

Breast milk is one of the body fluids -- along with blood, semen ("cum"), vaginal or rectal fluids -- that transmit HIV. While the risk of transmission through breast milk decreases if you are on HIV drugs and your viral load is undetectable, there may still be some risk. Having an undetectable viral load in blood may not guarantee an undetectable viral load in breast milk. More research is needed into how HIV drugs affect the cells in breast milk, as well as breastfed infants.

A study among more than 2,000 women and their infants in Africa and India, called the PROMISE trial, compared results when either a breastfeeding mother or her infant took HIV drugs. In both parts of the study, HIV transmission rates to babies were found to be very low -- less than 1 percent a year after birth. However, two infants in this study acquired HIV from their mothers even though the mothers had undetectable viral loads.

Breast milk also transfers the mother's antibodies to her baby. This can protect an infant against common illnesses and allergies. Like other medications, the HIV drugs a woman takes are passed on to her baby through breast milk. Research in resource-limited areas shows that this transfer of a mother's antibodies and HIV drugs may protect her child from acquiring HIV. However, we do not know how much HIV drug is passed on to breastfed infants, whether that amount changes throughout the period they are breastfeeding, or what long-term effects HIV drugs may have on the child.

In the US and other resource-rich countries, pregnant women are often told that "breast is best," but women living with HIV are also told that they should not breastfeed. With modern HIV drugs, women's viral loads may be below detectable levels for a long time. This has many women living with HIV wondering whether the advice not to breastfeed is still true for them.

What information we have on HIV and breastfeeding comes from resource-limited settings, where breastfeeding is recommended and older HIV drugs are common. Women in resource-rich countries usually take newer HIV drugs and are more likely to have access to enough food and clean water. Therefore, breastfeeding may affect the health of both mother and child differently than in resource-limited settings.

Because the risk of HIV transmission to the baby is considered to outweigh the benefits of breastfeeding, guidelines in most resource-rich countries recommend against breastfeeding if the mother is living with HIV. That is why no studies on breastfeeding have been conducted in such countries. However, it is important to point out that in recent years, the DHHS, BHIVA, and EACS HIV treatment guidelines, which all recommend against breastfeeding when formula is available, have all included updates that acknowledge the desire of some women living with HIV in resource-rich countries to breastfeed. While not a recommendation, these guidelines suggest ways for providers to support the health of women who make that choice, as well as their babies. BHIVA's guidelines stress informed decision-making and support for parents considering breastfeeding. In the US, advocates and clinicians are working to update the US guidelines to reflect these principles.

What Factors Can Affect HIV Transmission Risk During Breastfeeding?

Adherence challenges for new moms: Taking care of a newborn is exhausting work. New mothers may forget to take some of their HIV drugs, and often forego their own care as they care for their new babies. Infants also need to see a health care provider often. The mother may not have time to get the baby to all their appointments and go to all of her own HIV-related appointments. Not taking all drugs as prescribed or forgetting a health care appointment may lead to the mother's viral load going up, increasing the risk for passing HIV on to her baby.

Taking care of a newborn is exhausting work. New mothers may forget to take some of their HIV drugs, and often forego their own care as they care for their new babies. Infants also need to see a health care provider often. The mother may not have time to get the baby to all their appointments and go to all of her own HIV-related appointments. Not taking all drugs as prescribed or forgetting a health care appointment may lead to the mother's viral load going up, increasing the risk for passing HIV on to her baby. Inflammation in a baby's gut: This can happen when the baby is vomiting or has diarrhea. Gut irritation has been shown to be a risk factor for HIV transmission through breast milk, because the virus can more easily pass into the baby's bloodstream through an irritated gut.

This can happen when the baby is vomiting or has diarrhea. Gut irritation has been shown to be a risk factor for HIV transmission through breast milk, because the virus can more easily pass into the baby's bloodstream through an irritated gut. Breast infections: A breast infection called mastitis -- which is common among breastfeeding mothers whether they are living with HIV or not -- can increase HIV viral load even before a woman has symptoms or knows that she has mastitis.

A breast infection called mastitis -- which is common among breastfeeding mothers whether they are living with HIV or not -- can increase HIV viral load even before a woman has symptoms or knows that she has mastitis. Nipple health: Many women's nipples become sore or cracked during breastfeeding, whether they are new to parenthood or experienced with breastfeeding. Cracked nipples may expose the baby to some of their mother's blood, again increasing the risk for transmitting HIV during feeding.

Many women's nipples become sore or cracked during breastfeeding, whether they are new to parenthood or experienced with breastfeeding. Cracked nipples may expose the baby to some of their mother's blood, again increasing the risk for transmitting HIV during feeding. **Breast engorgement: **A new mother's breasts can sometimes become engorged (painfully overfilled with milk), which may also increase the viral load in breast milk and the risk of transmitting HIV during feeding.

Is U Equals U True for Breastfeeding?

"Undetectable Equals Untransmittable," or "U=U," refers to the large and growing body of research that has shown that a person living with HIV who takes HIV drugs and whose viral load is undetectable cannot pass the virus on to their sexual partners. But the amount of HIV in a woman's breast milk can be different from the amount in her blood. We do not know whether that is also true if a woman's viral load has been undetectable for a while and she continues to take HIV drugs.

While the risk of HIV transmission through breastfeeding is low when the mother's viral load is undetectable, the level of risk is not zero as is the case with U=U and sexual transmission of HIV. While research into this issue continues, it is important for care providers and other community health professionals to help women make informed choices based on the information we have today, and to provide support to those who choose to breastfeed their babies.

What Are the Benefits and Risks of Breastfeeding?

Benefits

Nutrition and protection for baby: Breast milk is the most nutritious food for babies and young children. It also carries the mother's antibodies, which protect babies from some illnesses and allergies.

Breast milk is the most nutritious food for babies and young children. It also carries the mother's antibodies, which protect babies from some illnesses and allergies. Health beyond infancy: Breastfed babies also have lower risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity later in life.

Breastfed babies also have lower risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity later in life. Cost, availability, and convenience: Breast milk is free and readily available whenever the mother is with the baby. It can be expressed (pumped) and fed to the baby in a bottle when the mother is not nearby.

Breast milk is free and readily available whenever the mother is with the baby. It can be expressed (pumped) and fed to the baby in a bottle when the mother is not nearby. For the breastfeeding parent: Bonding: Breastfeeding may help new mothers to feel close to their infants. Mental health: Breastfeeding can also help new mothers avoid postpartum depression, which can be serious and make it harder to care for a new baby. Maternal blood loss: Breastfeeding lowers the risk of blood loss after delivery. Overall maternal health: Breastfeeding has also been shown to reduce risk of breast and ovarian cancers, high blood pressure, and diabetes.



Potential Risks and Challenges

Transmission: HIV can be transmitted through breast milk, which could mean that a baby born HIV-negative acquires the virus from their mother's milk. This risk increases if a child is fed breast milk along with other forms of nourishment, such as commercial formula or solid food. That is why the WHO recommends that women in resource-limited countries only feed their babies breast milk for the first six months of their lives. Breastfeeding also sometimes leaves nipples sore or cracked, or breasts can become engorged -- which are not only uncomfortable conditions for the mother, but may increase the risk of transmitting HIV to the infant.

HIV can be transmitted through breast milk, which could mean that a baby born HIV-negative acquires the virus from their mother's milk. This risk increases if a child is fed breast milk along with other forms of nourishment, such as commercial formula or solid food. That is why the WHO recommends that women in resource-limited countries only feed their babies breast milk for the first six months of their lives. Breastfeeding also sometimes leaves nipples sore or cracked, or breasts can become engorged -- which are not only uncomfortable conditions for the mother, but may increase the risk of transmitting HIV to the infant. Breastfeeding difficulties: Numerous mothers, regardless of their HIV status, struggle with breastfeeding while they work outside the home or take care of other children and a household. Add to this HIV drugs that must be taken on a schedule -- or given to the baby on a schedule -- and additional appointments with health care providers, and finding the time and space to breastfeed may become even more difficult.

Numerous mothers, regardless of their HIV status, struggle with breastfeeding while they work outside the home or take care of other children and a household. Add to this HIV drugs that must be taken on a schedule -- or given to the baby on a schedule -- and additional appointments with health care providers, and finding the time and space to breastfeed may become even more difficult. Legal considerations: In countries where clinical recommendations discourage women living with HIV from breastfeeding, there is the chance that a woman who chooses to breastfeed her child may be forced to face child protection authorities, or even criminal charges. According to the HIV Justice Network, prosecutions of women living with HIV for alleged HIV exposure through pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding are known to have happened in several high-income countries, including the US.

In countries where clinical recommendations discourage women living with HIV from breastfeeding, there is the chance that a woman who chooses to breastfeed her child may be forced to face child protection authorities, or even criminal charges. According to the HIV Justice Network, prosecutions of women living with HIV for alleged HIV exposure through pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding are known to have happened in several high-income countries, including the US. Disclosure: In communities where everyone breastfeeds, choosing not to do so may signal to others that a mother is living with HIV, even though she has not disclosed her status (told others that she is living with the virus). This is especially true if infant formula is provided for free to women living with HIV, but not to other new mothers.

In communities where everyone breastfeeds, choosing not to do so may signal to others that a mother is living with HIV, even though she has not disclosed her status (told others that she is living with the virus). This is especially true if infant formula is provided for free to women living with HIV, but not to other new mothers. Family coercion: Women may also face pressure from their families to breastfeed. In particular, women have reported being pushed to breastfeed their babies by their mothers-in-law -- the paternal grandmothers of their babies.

Women may also face pressure from their families to breastfeed. In particular, women have reported being pushed to breastfeed their babies by their mothers-in-law -- the paternal grandmothers of their babies. Overall lack of support for breastfeeding: In some countries, such as the US, women find it difficult to breastfeed, independent of HIV status. Breastfeeding in public places is stigmatized and new mothers are expected to return to work outside the home soon after birth. If "breast is best," women who breastfeed must get the support they need, whether or not they are living with HIV.

How Can Women Living with HIV Feed Their Babies Safely?

There are ways to get your baby breast milk without feeding them your own milk (see below). If you choose to breastfeed yourself, here are some tips to help you do so safely:

Take your HIV drugs exactly as prescribed (adherence). This will keep the amount of virus in your blood low and make it far less likely that your baby will acquire HIV. Your health care provider may conduct additional viral load testing while you are breastfeeding.

Make sure your infant gets their doses of HIV drugs as well. If you are breastfeeding, additional drugs may be prescribed for the baby, and additional testing may be recommended.

Do your best to breastfeed exclusively (no other forms of nutrition for the baby) for six months. Mixing breastfeeding and infant formula (for example, breastfeeding in the morning and evening and using formula during the day) has been shown to increase the chance of transmitting HIV.

Take good care of your breasts. Try to avoid engorgement, mastitis, and cracked nipples.

Find people who will help you to manage the stress of taking care of an infant, healing your own body after birth, breastfeeding, and dealing with your HIV.

Some women also feel very sad after having a baby (called "postpartum blues" or, in more severe cases, postpartum depression). Seek help if you feel this way.

Ask knowledgeable people in your community or professionals, such as lactation consultants, for advice on some of the challenges you may experience while breastfeeding, including cracked or sore nipples, or a baby who has difficulty nursing.

Take good care of your own health. Make sure you get enough healthy food and drink plenty of (clean) water. Breastfeeding is tiring, so get enough rest.

In the United Kingdom, a clinic that serves women living with HIV has developed a tool called the "safer triangle" to help parents understand the risks of breastfeeding, and how to manage those risks. The points on the triangle are:

No virus: only breastfeeding if the mother's viral load is undetectable;

only breastfeeding if the mother's viral load is undetectable; Happy tums: only breastfeeding when the mother and baby both have healthy guts and are not having diarrhea or vomiting, and can both absorb HIV drugs properly; and

only breastfeeding when the mother and baby both have healthy guts and are not having diarrhea or vomiting, and can both absorb HIV drugs properly; and Healthy breasts for mums: only breastfeeding when breasts and nipples are free of cracks, bleeding, mastitis, thrush (a common infection in breastfeeding mothers and babies), or other infections.

If one "point" on the triangle is broken, stop breastfeeding, according the clinic's information leaflet. The resource also provides advice for how to pause or stop breastfeeding when necessary.

What Are Other Options for Infant Feeding?

Infant Formula

Feeding a baby formula is the safest option from the perspective of HIV, because it is the only way to guarantee absolutely no risk of HIV transmission. Formula is modified cow's (or goat or soy) milk. It is available as a powder (must be mixed with clean water) or liquid (must be refrigerated after the container has been opened). The modifications to the milk make it similar to human breast milk. However, formula does not carry any antibodies and therefore does not provide the protective effects of breast milk. Unlike your own breast milk, formula is (usually) not free.

Milk Bank

Women who produce more breast milk than they need for their own baby may give the extra milk to a milk bank. Women with milk to donate go through a screening process and blood tests before donating their milk. The milk bank then gives that milk (often for a cost, depending on the circumstances and the milk bank) to babies who for whatever reason cannot be breastfed. In theory this is a good solution for women living with HIV who want to be sure that there is no way they can transmit the virus to their infant. However, since milk banks depend on donated breast milk, they may not always have enough milk to give away. Also, your baby may get milk from different women who pass on different antibodies. This means they may not get as much of a specific antibody as they would if they were always fed by the same woman who passes on only one particular set of antibodies.

Wet Nurse or Cross-Feeding

One option is for another woman to breastfeed your baby. Before baby bottles became widely available, wet nurses were common. Today, there are some paid wet nurses, or you can have an informal arrangement with a friend. Again, this solution depends on a woman producing more breast milk than she needs. Unlike a milk bank, the woman providing the milk must be in the same place that your baby is, and available whenever your baby needs to be fed. The woman would also need to be screened for health conditions that affect breastfeeding, including HIV.

Flash Heating

You can express your breast milk by using a breast pump, then quickly heat the milk to destroy any germs or viruses in it. This process also kills most of the HIV that may be in your breast milk. However, it also destroys some other components of the milk that are good for your baby. It is also an extremely time-consuming process. Flash heating was developed for people in resource-limited countries who do not have access to any of the other options listed here.

What Choice Should I Make?

You are the only person who should decide how your baby will be fed. If you choose to breastfeed, it is important to take your HIV drugs, and keep up with health care visits and viral load testing, exactly as prescribed and recommended by your provider. It is also very important to find a support network, including a provider -- and other allies -- whom you trust, and who can be good sources for information without judgment.

Making this decision can be a challenging process. You may feel fear, stress, or even some sadness over any of the choices you are considering. It is also important to remember to take care of yourself during this process. It may be helpful for you to connect with a group of women or others who can offer support, to write about your thoughts and concerns, or to engage in some other activity that helps you feel supported as you prepare to make the best possible decision for you and your growing family.

Special thanks to Shannon Weber, M.S.W., from HIVE and Lena Serghides, Ph.D., from University of Toronto for their special consultation for this fact sheet.

[Note from TheBody: This article was originally published by The Well Project on Nov. 26, 2018. We have cross-posted it with their permission.]Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Inforial (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta, Indonesia  Mon, December 3, 2018 18:37 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e04c7b8 4 Inforial Free

Indonesias peatland forests are some of the most sensitive and biodiversity-rich ecosystems in the world. The Kampar Peninsula in Sumatra represents one of the last remaining Sundaic lowland tropical peat forests, providing forest habitat for various endangered species, while protecting significant reserves of carbon.

Five years ago, Restorasi Ekosistem Riau (Riau Ecosystem Restoration, RER) was set up as a collaborative project to bring together private and public sector organizations to protect and restore forest in this unique environment through numerous programs.

Located on Sumatras eastern coastline, RER comprises 150,000 hectares of peatland forest, of which 130,000 hectares sits on the Kampar Peninsula - an area about twice the size of Singapore. A further 20,000 hectares are located on the nearby Padang Island.

Restoration: Forest restoration at RER involves growing seedlings of native tree species from the forests it manages (Courtesy of RER/.)

Set-up by APRIL Group, a leading producer of fiber, pulp and paper, RER is managed under 60-year ecosystem restoration licenses issued by the government of Indonesia. A key element of the program is the use of an integrated production protection ring landscape model, where plantation operations on the perimeter of the restoration area not only provide protection from fire and encroachment, but also support ecosystem restoration and forest protection.

The RER program has achieved some extraordinary results since work began, including the documenting of the presence of hundreds of species of fauna and flora and the total absence of fire from the concessions. As of June 2018, there are now 757 recorded plants and animal species resident in the RER area, ranging from birds, reptiles to diversify trees and plants.

Rare bird: A male scarlet-rumped trogon, one of the resident species at RER Kampar Peninsula, is largely limited to closed-canopy lowland forest. (Courtesy of RER/.)

This builds on RERs initial biodiversity count following field studies conducted by RER partner Fauna & Flora International (FFI) in 2015. With the help of FFI and two social NGOs, BIDARA and Laskar Alam, RER has established sound working relationships with the communities surrounding the area.

Speaking recently at a reception in Singapore hosted by APRIL to mark the RERs fifth anniversary, APRIL Group Chairman and RER Advisory Board Chairman, Bey Soo Khiang, explained the motivation behind the companys support for the program.

We support the RER because it is in line with our business philosophy that whatever we do must be good for the community, the country, the climate and our customers and only then will it be good for company, he said.

RER contributes to APRILs commitment to conserve one hectare of forest for every hectare of plantation. The RER programs are supported by a US$100 million investment by APRIL to support and secure long-term conservation and restoration initiatives, which was announced in 2015.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Inforial (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta, Indonesia  Tue, December 4, 2018 00:08 1088 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e05391f 4 Inforial Free

Indonesia expressed its support for the campaign for environmentally friendly jobs at the 25th ASEAN Labor Ministers Meeting (ALMM) themed Promoting Green Jobs for Equity and Inclusive Growth of ASEAN Community from Nov. 28 to 29 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Indonesia is supporting the green job campaign and will cooperate with ASEAN to take part in the campaign, Manpower Minister Hanif Dhakiri said at the meeting. The green job campaign will be in accordance with the fourth industrial revolution, in which jobs are not only about bringing prosperity but also ensuring environmental preservation for the future.

. (./.)

There has been an economic shift, Hanif said, from an industry that exploited natural resources to an industry that emphasizes innovation, workplace skill improvement, and collaboration. This shift came from awareness of the threat of shortage and destruction of natural resources. Innovations and knowledge-based skills, meanwhile, will keep developing.

In this meeting, Indonesian delegates presented a number of green job programs by the government, such as holding a vocational training session with green skill elements, green productivity, occupational health and safety in the training curriculum of the Vocational Training Center.

. (./.)

Through the Manpower Ministry, the government will also cooperate with higher education institutions to develop subjects on green productivity and green accounting.

On the agenda of the 25th ALMM was to collaborate and to share our experiences among the ASEAN countries on green job issues. Previously, the ASEAN leaders signed the ASEAN Declaration on Promoting Green Jobs For Equity and Inclusive Growth of ASEAN Community, which aims to create proper jobs and reduce their negative impacts on the environment.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 07:01 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e0285be 1 Health smartphone,health,#health Free

Oily fingerprints, dust and crumbs that end up on the screens of mobile phones are the least of our worries.

They are exposed to all forms of environments and bacteria and were found to have 140 units per swab of staphylococcus, better known as staph, in comparison to a toilet seat, which had less than 20 units, according to Readers Digest.

A phone screen has become a common breeding ground for germs, which can lead to conditions such as acne and blackheads, due to it being pressed against the face.

Your mobile device is something you want to clean regularly, said Dubert Guerrero, an infectious disease specialist at Sanford Health in Fargo, North Dakota, as quoted by The New York Times.

Phone screens are not the only screens that provide germs with a place to stay -- tablets and other devices are also prone to infestations.

Read also: A how-to guide to fixing a water-damaged phone

Guerrero said cleaning your mobile devices screen regularly with a damp microfiber cloth was enough to rid it of common bacteria, though he recommended alcohol and bleach to rid it of more dangerous and hardy bacteria such as Clostridium difficile, which can cause diarrhea and inflammation of the colon.

That devices can be a source of disease transmission is not a subject of debate anymore, he added.

The report suggested that alcoholic wipes were effective enough to clean marks, dirt, fingerprints and all other conspicuous and inconspicuous substances that have accumulated on your devices screen, whilst at the same time, disinfecting the area. (acr/kes)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Michelle Gumede (Agence France-Presse) Johannesburg, South Africa  Mon, December 3, 2018 12:05 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e0371a6 2 Entertainment Beyonce,Jay-Z,Global-Citizen-Festival,nelson-mandela,tribute,South-Africa Free

Beyonce led an all-star line-up including Ed Sheeran, Jay-Z and Usher in Johannesburg at a concert to honor the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela on Sunday.

The concert was the climax of a year of events celebrating the centennial of Mandela's birth in 1918, and part of a campaign to tackle poverty, child malnutrition and boost gender equality.

This year's Global Citizen Festival was held at Johannesburg's 94,736-capacity FNB stadium and saw Beyonce perform several of her hits as well as a duet with Sheeran.

Thank you to all of those around the world who joined us tonight by watching our live stream. We hope you will take action and answer Nelson Mandela's call to #BeTheGeneration to end extreme poverty. #DemandFreedom #DefeatPoverty #GlobalCitizenFestivalSA pic.twitter.com/vOjjU2PbAa  Global Citizen (@GlblCtzn) December 2, 2018

Thousands of music fans, many of whom had received free tickets to reward their activism and campaigning work, flocked to the stadium hours before the concert began.

"I'm proud to be part of the global citizen movement because they are trying to make a positive impact on people's lives -- especially women's and children's issues," said Nokthula Khuzwayo, 23, from Soweto.

"I loved Dbanj's performance and of course Queen B and Jay-Z, even though it was a brief one."

As well as a constellation of global stars that also included Pharrell Williams and Coldplay's Chris Martin, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted fellow heads of state from Ghana, Rwanda and Sierra Leone.

"We are here to act in one voice," said Ramaphosa.

Beyonce's performance of her smash hit XO, during which she wore a flowing pink-red dress and paid tribute to Mandela, drew an outpouring of emotion from the crowd.

Read also: Beyonce buys out clothing venture from UK's Philip Green

'Take action'

South African stars Trevor Noah, who was the host, and Bonang Matheba also made appearances, as the largely local crowd braved heavy downpours to attend.

Ahead of the concert co-host Oprah Winfrey hailed Mandela's "goodness and integrity", describing him as her "favourite mentor".

Mandela was imprisoned for decades under South Africa's apartheid regime. After being released in 1990, he led the country's transformation into a multi-racial democracy and was elected its first president. He died on December 5, 2013, aged 95.

Earlier on Sunday, Mandela's widow Graca Machel, draped in a bright yellow and blue dress, took to the stage to honour her late husband in front of the near-capacity crowd.

And Mandela's grandson Ndaba Mandela told festival-goers: "Today it is a privilege and choice for us to take action on behalf of the hundreds of millions of people trapped in the cycle of poverty.

"So I plead with you, don't think of this as just a music festival, this is a call to the hearts and minds of humanity all across the world."

The Global Citizen initiative aims to help eradicate extreme poverty by 2030 and has staged events in other world cities including London, Brussels, and New York.

According to the initiative's founder Hugh Evans, more than $2 billion have been pledged to good causes following the Johannesburg gig, beating the $1 billion goal.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted ahead of the event pledging $50 million to women's and girl's education projects.

Event organisers earlier paid tribute to a rigger who died following a fall while helping to prepare the stage on Saturday.

"The circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated," Global Citizen said in a statement.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Song Su-hyun (The Korea Herald/Asia News Network)  Mon, December 3, 2018 14:00 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e03ae64 2 Science & Tech 5G,South-Korea,Samsung,mobile-network Free

To mark the official launch of the fifth-generation of mobile network, South Korean mobile carriers held various celebrations on Saturday, and vowed to aggressively expand their 5G infrastructure across the country in preparation for launch on smartphones in March, according to the telcos on Sunday.

SK Telecom CEO Park Jung-ho made a video call from the mobile operators network control center in Bundang, Gyeonggi Province to a staff manager in the companys Myeong-dong office in central Seoul, using a pilot 5G smartphone made by Samsung Electronics.

I feel deeply moved by this first video call on a 5G smartphone, Park said. It was much clearer than on LTE and the response was quick.

Calls were subsequently made to Haeundae in Busan, Dunsan-dong in Daejeon and Geumnam-ro in Gwangju, some of the 13 cities and counties that are covered by SKTs 5G network.

SKTs first 5G client Myunghwa Ind kick-started the 5G-AI machine vision solution that that collects and sends 24 high-definition photos from the production line to a cloud server, where they are judged for defects via artificially intelligent algorithms.

The mobile carriers self-driving car had test-runs in Hwaseong K-City and ordinary roads in Siheung as it was communicating with SKTs 5G control center.

Despite a fire from its branch in northern district in Seoul and subsequent network blackout last week, KT also celebrated its commercial 5G launch at the 123-floor Lotte World Tower in Jamsil, southern Seoul.

The towers guide robot Lota is the first client of KTs 5G service that provides 10 gigabytes of data at 49,500 won ($44.20) per month.

Read also: Verizon planning launch of 5G internet, TV service in October

We chose Lota as our first 5G client in order to highlight that 5G doesnt just mean a replacement of the mobile network, a company official said. 5G robot Lota will be a platform that innovates our daily lives and industries altogether.

KT said it has deployed 5G infrastructure in Seoul and six other metropolitan cities across the country. The KT network even covers Jeju, Ulleungdo and Dokdo.

The mobile carrier plans to expand the coverage to 24 major cities, including subway and bullet train KTX stations with large floating populations.

LG Uplus also held a video call ceremony in Magok, northwestern Seoul, using a laptop that is connected to a 5G router.

The third player in the Korean telecom market has established around 4,100 5G base stations  the largest number so far among the three telcos  and plans to set up more than 7,000 stations by the end of December, the company said.

LG Uplus is the only carrier that has deployed Chinas Huawei 5G equipment.

LGs first 5G client is tractor maker LS Mtron. The company has collaborated with LG Uplus to develop the countrys first 5G-enabled tractor that can be remotely controlled.

Topics :

This article appeared on The Korea Herald newspaper website, which is a member of Asia News Network and a media partner of The Jakarta PostShare this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) Washington  Mon, December 3, 2018 18:08 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e04b106 2 People Neil-deGrasse-Tyson,scientists,author,sexual-misconduct,#MeToo Free

Well-known author and astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson on Sunday denied allegations by three women of sexual misconduct spanning several decades.

Tyson, 60, who has built a successful career on television and in his books explaining and popularizing science, had remained largely silent as three different women lodged complaints dating as far back as 1984.

But on Sunday, in a lengthy Facebook post, he responded.

"For a variety of reasons," he wrote, "most justified, some unjustified, men accused of sexual impropriety in today's 'me-too' climate are presumed to be guilty by the court of public opinion."

While calling himself a "loving husband... a scientist and educator," he wrote that "accusations can damage a reputation and a marriage. Sometimes irreversibly."

In the first case, a woman alleged that Tyson drugged and raped her when both were graduate students at the University of Texas in 1984. She has said she remembered passing out after he gave her a drink and waking up later, naked, on his bed.

Tyson, in his Facebook post, said he remembered "being intimate only a few times, all at her apartment, but the chemistry wasn't there... There was nothing otherwise odd or unusual about this friendship."

The scientist said he was stunned more than 30 years later to read that he was being accused "of drugging and raping a woman I did not recognize by either photo or name" (she had since married).

Tyson said the allegation stemmed "from an assumption of what happened to her during a night that she cannot remember... as though a false memory had been implanted."

In 2009, he said, a colleague approached him at a conference to ask for a photograph.

Read also: Buddhist monk master in China resigns after sexual misconduct allegations

She had a tattoo of the solar system that reached up her arm. Tyson admits he likely "search(ed) for Pluto at the top of her shoulder," but said that he was surprised to hear later that she thought he had been "creepy" and had "groped" her.

"That was never my intent and I'm deeply sorry to have made her feel that way," he wrote.

The third allegation dates from this summer. After spending many hours on a project working with a female production assistant, he said, he had invited her to his place for wine and cheese.

Later, "she came into my office to told(sic) me she was creeped out by the wine & cheese evening. She viewed the invite as an attempt to seduce her."

Tyson also admitted having "clumsily" told her more than once that "if I hug you I might just want more." And Tyson said he had offered her a "special" handshake -- which she said seemed overly intimate -- that he said he had learned "from a Native elder on reservation land at the edge of the Grand Canyon."

Fox Broadcasting and National Geographic, which air Tyson's popular show "Cosmos," have said they are investigating his conduct.

The American Museum of Natural History in New York is also looking into the accusations, The New York Times reported. Tyson directs the Hayden Planetarium there.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Hikmat Darmawan (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 08:17 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e02a369 4 Books Sabrina,post-truth,Internet,fake-news,#books,#bookreview,graphic-novel,book-review Free

Halfway through the graphic novel, I was reminded of the tragic impact of a mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in the United States on Dec. 14, 2012.

A conspiracy theory spread over the internet alleging that the Sandy Hook shooting was a hoax perpetrated to campaign for gun control, which would weaken the US. Parents and families of victims, as well as surviving teachers and children of the tragedy, were seen as actors.

Radio broadcaster Alex Jones from Austin, Texas, fervently aired the conspiracy theory and in April 2018 was sued by three families of Sandy Hook survivors.

In Sabrina, one of its lead characters, Teddy, seems obsessed with a radio broadcast talking about the Masters, about a global conspiracy thats enslaving listeners.

So they manufactured tragedy [] they staged massacres and murdered civilians. This is a smoke screen, says the broadcaster on page 88.

Are they creating global dictatorship? Does it already exist? I dont know that it matters. The haves already have it all. Keeping us in place is their only goal.

Teddy is apparently all ears. The broadcaster is described by Nick Drnaso only in the voice coming out of the radio, which narrates another version of the daily world. It is a version filled with anger, suspicion and suppressed war.

Drnaso uses so many panels to meticulously convey the voices and thoughts of the broadcaster. So goes the narrative style of the entire graphic novel: serene, flowing slowly, calmly presenting outbursts in imperceptible parts.

Drnaso focuses his visual narratives on the effect of such outbursts, an aftermath that is often quiet but sometimes is felt to be even more terrifying than tumultuous frenzies.

This graphic novel begins with the daily life of a woman in Chicago; she looks for a cat, is visited by her younger sister named Sandra, fills out crossword puzzles, chats in the kitchen and in bed.

Sandra asks her sister to vacation out of town. They part later in the evening. The next morning the woman starts the day normally. The sky is a bit cloudy and she goes out.

A while after the first part, the woman turns out to be Sabrina. She is Teddys girlfriend. Sabrina becomes missing. The loss gradually enters the awareness of readers.

Post truth: Sabrina depicts the dark side of the internet where conspiracy theorists and trolls regularly post hoaxes and fake news. (Courtesy of Granta Publication/-)

Teddy feels depressed and visits a childhood friend he has not seen for a long time, Calvin, in a small town in Colorado. Still with its creeping pace, the novel presents the worst possibility in the modern world and things get even more awful.

Without revealing what happens, it is enough to mention the presence of a horrifying video on the internet and its impact on Teddy, Sandra and Calvin.

As the story goes, the Sandy Hook tragedy is brought up, leading in a direction that makes it resemble the real-world tragedy.

Teddy, Sandra and Calvin are carried away by the internet, which can be very vicious.

Paranoia, cluelessness, helplessness and concealed anger that leave them prone to occasional outbursts haunt the three.

Drnaso is very proficient in building his storyline.

Conversations on the internet, some childrens games and spaces for the characters are illustrated in great detail.

Consequently, readers seemingly enter a very real world, one thats closely and intimately involved with us every day. This makes what happens to Sabrina, Teddy, Sandra and Calvin even more terrifying as it invokes real sensations.

The ostensibly real world is built by compositions of words and pictures. This gives Drnaso freedom to both hide and express many things. Without being mediated by words, various things can be felt from the mute scenes and silent landscapes drawn by Drnaso. If prose relies on words to describe situations, a medium like a graphic novel can focus on the role of words for something different and let pictures or images speak.

In Sabrina, Drnaso optimizes words to serve as voices  an analogical term in the study of novels to portray personal uniqueness, either than of the novelist or the characters in a novel.

The voices in a novel are formed by uniqueness of the perspective and speech pattern.

Drnaso skillfully manifests the voices in radio broadcasts, online articles, various emails and gossip among employees that form a stream of tension that always poses threats behind this novels quiet pictures.

It is interesting that at the same time Drnaso manages to depict the difficulty of the main characters  Sabrina, Teddy, Calvin and Sandra  to express their own voices amid the tsunami of words in the media and social

media.

Gradually and terribly, the four figures are robbed of their identities and shaped according to the wishes of hoax mongers, fanatics and troll makers, without being able to voice a response to the public.

Calvin, for instance, who at first only offers a chance to Teddy, steadily obtains a new identity on the internet as a fake actor, a participant of the conspiracy around the case of Sabrina. The new identity turns his personal life upside down, his ties with his family living separately and his working relations.

Sandra reads a series of emails she has received after the Sabrina cases public exposure, seemingly incapable of uttering her own voice.

Teddy is immersed in his room and unbearable loneliness. When he finally becomes obsessed with searching for Calvins lost cat, one can sense it as a kind of self-liberation thats expensive in this world filled with prejudice.

Sabrina is on the long list of candidates for a 2018 Man Booker Prize, one of the most prestigious literary awards in the world, based in Britain.

The significance of Sabrinas Man Booker Prize listing is the recognition that graphic novels constitute a valid literary medium.

Sabrina is discussed by literary critics and displayed at general bookstores rather than just at comic bookshops all over London. Thats where I bought the book at Housmans Bookshop, which claims to have been a radical bookseller since 1945.

The recognition is important as it opens a big chance for comics to contribute to public discourse in an effort to understand todays complex world by means of a medium of visual narration.

Sabrina is the best book  in any medium  I have read about our current moment, said Zadie Smith, a brilliant contemporary novelist.

Chris Wares comment in The Guardian describes Sabrina as A clever and chilling analysis of the nature of trust and truth and the erosion of both in the age of the internet.

Chris Ware is a graphic novelist considered capable of voicing the brutal silence of modern men in his comics.

This potential also needs to be explored in Indonesias literary and comic spheres, not merely because of our long graphic novel tradition from the 1940s to the 1980s.

More than that, the world is currently plagued by tension resulting from widespread prejudice, persecution, hoaxes and expressions of hatred that are apparently expanding in the era of the internet.

Sabrina is a gripping meditation of how frightening the dark side of the present-day internet is.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Marchio Irfan Gorbiano (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 10:23 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e032518 1 Business cigarette-smoking,cigarette,tobacco-control,tobacco-industry,foreign-investment,small-and-medium-enterprises Free

The government has insisted that its plan to liberalize the tobacco industry will trickle down positively in terms of job creation and export outputs despite the product being largely consumed inside the country, prompting criticism from tobacco control activists.



Aside from creating jobs and boosting exports, the proposed plan, which is part of a government effort to revise the negative investment list (DNI), would be put in place to reinvigorate small and medium business players, a ministry official said.



By opening up the industry to foreign investment, small-scale producers, who had been hurt by high excise rates, would have a new capital injection to improve their businesses and hire more workers, said Abdul Rochim, the Industry Ministrys director of beverages, tobacco and refreshments.



Small and medium businesses in the tobacco industry shrank from 2,540 in 2011 to 487 last year, according to government data, as tobacco excise rates were gradually increased.



Exports of tobacco and its derivative products were recorded at US$906.2 million during January to September this year, according to Trade Ministry data, up by 7.11 percent from $846 million over the same period last year.



Abdul said the Industry Ministry had also proposed that new investments from big cigarette producers should be made in the bonded logistics zone to boost exports.



Clove and white cigarettes, along with cigars and other tobacco products, are among 49 business sectors that are to be opened up to foreign investment in the upcoming DNI relaxation.



The proposal comes from the Industry Ministry, which hopes that new investments in the tobacco industry, both foreign or domestic, will free big companies from the requirement to partner with small and medium businesses. Abdul said this requirement discouraged new investments in the industry.



However, the Indonesian Tobacco Society Alliance, an industry group whose membership ranged from tobacco farmer associations to cigarette producers, declined to comment as the DNI relaxation for the industry was still in the proposal stages.



Tobacco farmers, meanwhile, lauded the governments move as it would trigger competition among producers that would, eventually, allow farmers to sell their product to the highest bidders.



If they [foreign investors] come and compete to buy tobacco from farmers, I think it will benefit the farmers, said Soeseno, the chairman of Indonesian Tobacco Growers Association.



He, however, added that local tobacco farmers might struggle to cope with the increasing demand as the governments attention to the upstream sector in the tobacco industry remained limited.



Soeseno said most farmers lacked access to adequate capital and their crop yields could not compete with neighboring countries, such as Vietnam, where farms have higher productivity rates.



Tobacco control activists criticized the governments move as it could be seen as supporting an industry many saw as being harmful to people.



Prijo Sidipratomo, the chairman of the National Commission on Tobacco Control, said liberalizing the cigarette industry was equal to handing over the overall domestic market to the tobacco industry.



Prijo added that the move was contradictory to the governments National Medium-Term Development Plan 2015-2019, whose goal was to reduce smoking among people below the age of 18 from 7.2 percent in 2013 to 5.4 percent next year.



A study released in September by the National Planning Development Board projected that without strict control, the prevalence of Indonesian smokers aged under 18 would grow to 10.7 percent by next year, 15 percent by 2024 and 16 percent by 2030.



Indonesia is the only ASEAN member country that has yet to sign the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, a global framework from the World Health Organization that mandates strict rules regarding tobacco production, advertising and taxation that aim to reduce tobacco consumption.

This article was originally published in The Jakarta Post's print edition on Dec. 3, 2018, with the title "Cigarette industry plan under scrutiny".Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) Washington, United States  Mon, December 3, 2018 12:34 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e03866e 2 World #USA,#China,Trade,tariff-exemption,US,cars Free

China has agreed to scale back tariffs on imported US cars, President Donald Trump said Sunday, one day after agreeing with Xi Jinping to a ceasefire in the trade war between the world's top two economies.

Asia stocks had rallied on the news that Washington and Beijing would not impose any new tariffs during a three-month grace period, during which the two sides are meant to finalize a more detailed agreement.

"China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40 percent," Trump said on Twitter.

On Saturday, Trump and Xi agreed to put a stop to their tit-for-tat tariffs row, which had roiled world markets for months.

The Republican president called their agreement -- which Washington hopes will help close a yawning trade gap with the Asian giant and help protect US intellectual property -- an "incredible" deal.

Trump agreed to hold off on his threat to slap 25 percent tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from January 1, leaving them at the current 10 percent rate.

In return, China is to purchase "very substantial" amount of agricultural, energy, industrial and other product from the US

The US president did not send any subsequent tweets Sunday explaining which auto tariffs would be removed, and which would be reduced.

In July, China reduced auto import duties from 25 percent to 15 percent, a boon for international carmakers keen to grow sales in the world's largest auto market.

But as trade tensions ratcheted up with the US this summer, Beijing retaliated by slapping vehicles imported from the US with an extra 25 percent tariff, bringing the total tariff rate to 40 percent.

Many US automakers build their cars in China, but for some the tariff hikes have hit sales.

US company Tesla saw its sales drop with the higher prices this fall and recently said it would absorb some of the higher tariff costs and no longer pass them on to consumers.

German carmaker BMW and Fords Lincoln brand have also been hit hard by the tariffs with some of their cars made in the US for the Chinese market.

The news comes as Trump mulls a tariff hike on vehicles imported from the European Union.

Top executives from German carmakers Volkswagen, Daimler and BMW are to meet Tuesday with senior US officials at the White House to discuss the situation, the German news agency DPA reported, citing unnamed sources.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Depok  Mon, December 3, 2018 10:27 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e0330b5 1 City Depok,mortar,weapon,police Free

A mortar shell has been confiscated from a junkyard on Jl. Raya Curug in Depok, West Java, after a worker reported finding the explosive weapon to the local police, the Depok Police spokesman has said.

We received information about the mortar shell on Saturday morning at around 8 a.m., said Depok Police spokesman, Adj. Comr. Firdaus on Sunday, as quoted by tempo.co.

Firdaus said junkyard worker M. Syarif reported to police that an unknown person had delivered a sack to the junkyard owner about two weeks ago.

He continued that Syarif said junkyard workers were surprised on Nov. 29, when they discovered what appeared to be a mortar shell measuring 30 centimeters long and 7 cm in diameter inside the sack.

The object was placed in a bucket filled with water [by the workers], Firdaus said.

The police sealed the junkyard and contacted Jakarta's bomb squad to check the mortar shell to determined whether it was live.

[The Depok Police] have communicated with the Gegana bomb squad of the Jakarta Police to secure the mortar shell, he said. Were also gathering information from witnesses.

Last month, about 60 live mortar shells were seized from a scrap metal trader in Cipondoh district of Tangerang, Banten. The trader apparently received the mortar shells from two unidentified men in the black uniforms of construction workers. (sau)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 12:40 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e03962a 1 City drown,child,jakarta,Fire-and-Rescue-Agency Free

The West Jakarta Fire and Rescue Agency recovered on Sunday the body of a child who had reportedly drowned in the Batang Hari River, near Jl. Gajah Mada, in West Jakarta.

The victim was found at 6:06 pm by the Subdistrict Military Command and has been taken to Tarakan Hospital, said Rompis Romli, head of the West Jakarta Fire and Rescue Agency, as quoted by tempo.co on Monday.

The child was identified as Bagir, 10, a resident of Petojo in Gambir, Central Jakarta.

According to Rompis, the victim decided to join his friends and play in the 2-meter-deep river, despite not knowing how to swim.

[He] immediately drowned. His friends reported the incident to nearby residents straightaway, Rompis added.

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI), Health Ministry officials, public order officers of Pamong Praja, the police and the Subdistrict Military Command helped the Fire and Rescue Agency in its search and subsequent recovery of the childs body. (Mai)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 10:16 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e031d10 4 Business Garuda,bandung,Singapore,routes Free

Flag carrier Garuda Indonesia started on Sunday its Bandung-Singapore route, which will be available four days a week: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

The route will use the B737-8000NG aircraft with the capacity of 150 seats for economy class and 12 seats for business class, said Garuda Indonesia commerce director Pikri Ilham Kurniansyah on Monday as reported by kontan.co.id.

Pikri said the opening of the Bandung-Singapore route was expected to help boost West Javas economy, particularly the trade investment sector and tourism, by bringing more tourists to the province, particularly Bandung, the provincial capital.

This international service is expected to facilitate international tourists to enjoy the diverse cultures in Bandung, he added.

The GA 544 flight is scheduled to take off from Husein Sastranegara International Airport at 12:50 p.m. and arrive at Changi International Airport in Singapore at 3:55 p.m.

Meanwhile, the GA 845 flight is scheduled to take off from Changi International Airport at 11 a.m. and arrive in Bandung at 12 p.m. (bbn)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Bogor  Mon, December 3 2018

The Bogor Polices narcotics division in West Java has seized hundreds of cannabis and khat plants, a flowering shrub classified as a drug, on land owned by state-owned forestry firm Perhutani in North Tugu village in Cisarua, Bogor regency, West Java.

Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Andi Mochamad Dicky said the discovery on Friday came about through an operation code-named Antik Lodaya, which was carried out since Nov. 23.

From the operation, we have uncovered 29 cases and arrested 40 suspected drug dealers. We have seized various evidence, ranging from crystal methamphetamine and ecstasy to marijuana. An interesting finding is the farming of cannabis and khat, Dicky said on Friday.

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Linkedin Glenda Kwek (Agence France-Presse) Sydney, Australia  Mon, December 3, 2018 16:44 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e046edc 2 World #Australia,#Crime,mafia,convicts,lawyers,informant,police Free

Hundreds of criminal convictions -- including those meted out to some of Australia's most notorious gangland figures -- hang in the balance, after their defence lawyer was revealed as a police informant Monday.

Court documents disclosed that a high-profile Melbourne barrister had for years been giving information to Victoria Police, while representing clients like crime boss Tony Mokbel and six of his associates.

The revelation came after court injunctions were lifted Monday, blowing the lid off one of the biggest legal scandals to hit the country in years and prompting the authorities to immediately announce a public inquiry.

In a secret court battle spanning more than two years, police had tried to stop state prosecutors from informing the seven people about their barrister's supergrass role.

They were finally knocked back by Australia's highest court last month.

The High Court blasted police as being "guilty of reprehensible conduct" and said they were "involved in sanctioning atrocious breaches of the sworn duty of every police officer".

"The prosecution of each convicted person was corrupted in a manner which debased fundamental premises of the criminal justice system," the High Court added in a scathing judgement.

The lawyer -- given the code name 3838 by police when she was working as an informant between 2005-2009 -- kept in daily contact with her handlers, who passed on information provided by her to various police taskforces, court documents stated.

While the courts only mentioned Mokbel and his associates, more than 600 cases could be tainted, according to Melbourne's Herald Sun.

Mokbel was jailed in 2012 for a minimum of 22 years for masterminding a drug trafficking empire.

The High Court decision means criminals would be notified that their barrister, who still cannot be named, was a police informant, thus possibly affecting their cases.

It would mean these criminals could then appeal their convictions.

- 'Gangland wars' -

Victoria's Director of Public Prosecutions Kerri Judd said she has written to 20 individuals about their cases, and was assessing others.

"If appropriate, I will also write to those affected individuals," she said in a statement.

Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews meanwhile announced a royal commission into the scandal, saying the public had a "right to know that every part of the justice system acts fairly and lawfully at all times".

Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton said the force changed how it managed informants in 2009, so such incidents cannot be repeated today.

Ashton said while police would cooperate with the probe, what was happening in the underworld at that time should be taken into account.

"Melbourne was in the grip of what is now rightly known as the gangland wars," he told reporters. "The risk to the community at this time was significant."

Legal advocacy group The Human Rights Law Centre said an independent investigative body should also be established to probe all allegations of police misconduct.

"This case touches the highest levels of Victoria Police. While this is an extreme case it's not an isolated example of police misconduct," said the centre's Ruth Barson in a statement.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Karina M. Tehusijarana (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 09:06 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e02c529 1 Politics #2019GeneralElections,#2019PresidentialElection,2019-elections,2019-presidential-election,2019-legislative-election,identity-politics,Indonesian-politics Free

Sectarianism is looming large over the 2019 general elections, with the Islamist groups behind the downfall of former Jakarta governor Basuki Ahok Tjahaja Purnama calling on Muslims to vote against the presidential candidate and political parties that backed the citys first Chinese and second Christian governor.



In a big rally that shows the growing clout of the Islamists in Indonesian politics, hundreds of thousands of conservative Muslims flocked to the National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta on Sunday to commemorate the second anniversary of the 2016 anti-Ahok rally that led to his imprisonment for blasphemy.



Ahok, a close ally and deputy of President Joko Jokowi Widodo when the latter served as Jakarta governor, was found guilty of insulting the Quran in a blasphemy case that was widely condemned as flawed and politically charged.



The rally, organized by a group calling itself the 212 Rally Alumni, was billed as a reunion for those who participated in the 2016 protest, although it quickly turned into a political stage for opposition leaders and outspoken critics of the Jokowi administration.



Other than calling on Muslims to boycott candidates backed by political parties that had supported Ahok, they also endorsed the anti-Jokowi movement bearing the moniker #2019GantiPresiden ( 2019ChangePresident ).



Protesters brought thousands of flags of various colors bearing the Islamic creed There is no God but Allah, also known as the tauhid, and chanted slogans in defense of the flag, which they called the Prophets banner.



The flag seems to have served as a unifying symbol for the various Islamist groups joining the 212 movement in the wake of a controversy surrounding the burning of one by members of Banser, a paramilitary group under the Nahdlatul Ulamas youth wing, GP Anshor, which is considered to be pro-Jokowi.



A report released in April 2018 by the Institute of Policy Analysis of Conflict (IPAC) highlighted fractures in the 212 Movement following Ahoks conviction, but analysts said the upcoming elections might prove to be a unifying factor among sympathizers of the political-religious movement.



Gerindra Party chairman Prabowo Subianto, who is challenging Jokowi in the presidential race for the second time, made a brief appearance at the rally together with Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan, who beat Ahok in the 2017 regional elections.



Other opposition coalition politicians were also in attendance, including National Mandate Party (PAN) founder Amien Rais, Peoples Consultative Assembly (MPR) Speaker Zulkifli Hasan and Gerindra deputy chairman and House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Fadli Zon.



Id like to thank the committee for inviting me today. Im proud at seeing millions of Indonesians, millions of Muslims, gathering here peacefully, Prabowo said in his speech at the rally. I am proud to be an Indonesian

Muslim.



Jokowi, who appeared at the 2016 rally, was not invited to this latest event and neither was his running mate and Indonesian Ulema Council chairman Maruf Amin, once an influential figure among the 212 activists.



Maruf had previously signed a fatwa declaring that Ahoks remarks were blasphemous, which was considered a trigger for the 2016 rallies.



Islam Defenders Front (FPI) leader Rizieq Shihab took part in the rally through a phone call from Saudi Arabia, where he lives. He called on his supporters to continue the fight against Ahok during the 2019 presidential and legislative elections.



During the 2019 elections, it is haram for us to vote for presidential and legislative candidates backed by parties supporting the blasphemer, he said, in a reference to Ahok. Lets vote for presidential and vice presidential candidates based on the decision of ijtima ulama [the consensus of the ulema].



Prabowo had been recommended as a presidential candidate at a gathering organized by the National Movement to Safeguard the Ulema Fatwa (GNPF) in August, while all the parties that backed Ahok in 2017 are now supporting Jokowi.



ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute research fellow Quinton Temby said the upcoming elections and the flag-burning incident contributed to the scale of Sundays rally. I think the approaching election is focusing the views of a certain constituency that the government is in some sense against Islam, he told The Jakarta Post.



Theres a sense of the movement building momentum and small incidents like a flag burning in a regional town take on national significance.

This article was originally published in The Jakarta Post's print edition on Dec. 3, 2018, with the title "Identity politics haunts 2019 race ".Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 12:17 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e037e27 4 Business indef,economy,2019,comments Free

The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) has underlined three major economic issues the government should address in 2019  the current account deficit, low-quality human resources and heavy dependency on natural resources for export.

Indef economist Bhima Yudhistira Adhinegara said the government needed to narrow the current account deficit to US$8.8 billion or 3.37 percent to the gross domestic product (GDP) in the third quarter from $8 billion in the second quarter.

The solution is to narrow the oil and gas trade deficit by boosting oil and gas lifting and expanding the use of biodiesel, said Bhima as reported by tribunnews.com on Monday, adding that the government should also expand its trade to non-traditional markets.

He said the dependency on the United States market would endanger the sustainability of Indonesias exports because of trade policy uncertainty under the President Donald Tramp administration.

Second, Bhima said 60 percent of employed manpower were only graduates of senior high schools and elementary schools, while many graduates of vocational schools could not be absorbed by the manufacturing industry.

He called on the government to overhaul the curriculum of vocational schools by intensifying internship programs.

Bhima stressed that Indonesia needed to reduce its export dependency on natural resources (70 percent). Without any improvement in the manufacturing sector, Indonesia will be stuck in the middle income trap, he added. (bbn)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Kharishar Kahfi and Agnes Anya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, December 4, 2018 08:48 1088 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e04fe7a 1 World Saudi-Arabia,Indonesia,NahdlatulUlama,Nahdlatul-ulama,NU,212-Alumni,Twitter Free

Indonesias largest Islamic organization, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), has demanded the Kingdom of Saudi Arabias ambassador to Indonesia be recalled from the country following his controversial tweet about a rally organized in Jakarta on Sunday by Islamists groups.

[We] urge the Indonesian government to send a diplomatic note to the Saudi Arabian government to recall the ambassador, Usamah Muhammad Al-Syuaiby, as punishment for his reckless move to interfere in a matter of national politics, NU chairman Said Aqil Siradj said in a press briefing on Monday.

On Sunday, a group calling itself the 212 Rally Alumni organized a mass rally at the National Monument (Monas) in Jakarta to commemorate the second anniversary of the 2016 rally that demanded then Jakarta governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama be prosecuted for blasphemy. Ahok was subsequently convicted and imprisoned.

Hours after the rally on Sunday, Ambassador Usamah posted photos of the rally on his Twitter account, @Os_alshuibi, accompanied by a caption in Arabic, which could be translated as: The action of millions of Muslims as a reaction to the burning of a flag bearing the tawhid text by a deviant organization.

The tweet referred to an incident in October, in which members of the NU's youth wing, Banser, burned a flag that had an Islamic text on it.

Read also: Uproar over flag burning reaches new heights

The tweet had been deleted on Monday afternoon but it sparked protests from the central board of the NU, the parent organization of Banser.

The NUs Said also accused the ambassador of intentionally spreading slander in alleging the flag burning was done by members of a "jamaah al-muharifah", which means deviant organization. The NU chairman said the rogue members of the organization had been duly punished. We also have regretted the burning.

Said lambasted the ambassador, saying he had committed a "serious diplomatic violation" by getting involved in internal Indonesian affairs, in violation of his authority. "This clearly undermines Indonesia-Saudi Arabia relations," he went on.

Ahmad Suryana, a communication staffer at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Jakarta, told journalists on Monday that the embassy had yet to make any comment about the ambassador's tweet. "We will let you know tomorrow," he said. (evi)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Karo  Mon, December 3 2018

Seven university students were killed and nine others were injured in a landslide at a hot springs resort in Semangat Gunung village in Merdeka district, Karo regency, North Sumatra, on Sunday.

The bodies of all the victims were moved to Amanda Hospital in Berastagi, Karo, where seven of the injured students are also being treated. The remaining two injured students were sent to Efarina Hospital.

Karo Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) head Martin Sitepu said five of the seven deceased victims had been identified. They were Emelita Ginting, Mones, Emiya Tarigan, Sartika Teresia Pinem and Sindy Simamora. All were students of Prima Indonesia University (Unpri) in Medan.

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 15:56 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e044546 1 City ETLE,ticket,police,Trafficcontrols,TrafficAuthorities Free

The Jakarta Police traffic unit is set to expand its Electronic Traffic Law Enforcement (E-TLE) system to cover more areas in the capital starting next year.

The system is currently applied to Jl. Sudirman and Jl. MH Thamrin in Central Jakarta, which are monitored by four cameras.

The police are set to 81 cameras at 25 intersections, such as in the National Monument (Monas) park area, Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat, Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan, Jl. MH Thamrin, Jl. Sudirman and the Gelora Bung Karno area.

Jakarta Police traffic unit chief Sr. Comr. Yusuf said a request has been made to the Jakarta administration to support the program by providing 50 cameras.

"A lot of people only obey traffic regulations when they see police officers are around. Later, they will comply with the regulations because they will be monitored by the cameras," Yusuf said as quoted by tempo.co.

He added that during the one-month trial run of the system, cameras detected 3,774 vehicles violating traffic regulations.

Of that number, 2,074 violators have been confirmed and 465 have paid the mandatory fine.

The police have also blocked 81 vehicle registration certificates (STNK) of traffic violators who could not be contacted. They must pay the fine to reactivate their STNK. (cal)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Fachrul Sidiq (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 09:41 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e02f653 1 City Jakarta-administration,gender-based-violence,violence-against-children,violence-against-women,safe-house,Komnas-Perempuan,child-protection Free

The Jakarta administration has earned praise for issuing Gubernatorial Regulation No. 48/2018 on safe houses for children and women who are victims of violence.



The safe houses, whose locations are confidential, allow victims to get maximum protection from perpetrators. They also offer counseling and legal assistance.



Since being launched in May, two safe houses administered by the city have housed 79 victims out of 1,510 residents who reported their cases to the administration.



Once the reports are examined, the authorities will decide whether to send victims to a safe house, which is guarded 24 hours a day, or not.



Not all of the women and children, who are victims violence, will be automatically housed in the safe houses. It depends on their need, Tuty Kusumawati, the head of the citys Child Protection and Empowerment and Population Control Agency (PPAPP), told The Jakarta Post on Saturday, adding that 52 percent of the 1,510 victims were children and the rest were adults.



This years figure is an increase from last year, when 1,217 cases were reported.



Tuty, however, said violence against children and women had not increased in Jakarta as the spike could be due to the victims becoming more courageous and speaking out.



The city plans to add more safe houses in five municipalities across the capital next year.



Jakarta was ranked the worlds ninth-worst megacity for women in a survey released by the Thomson Reuters Foundation last year, which measured the prevalence of sexual violence, harmful cultural practices and access to health care and economic opportunities.



A study commissioned by the United Nations Women Asia Pacific in three municipalities South, East and West Jakarta  found that women were vulnerable to street crime and sexual violence in public spaces.



According to the National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan), the prevalence of sexual harassment in Jakarta was among the highest in Indonesia. Throughout 2016, the commission reported 13,602 cases of violence against women nationwide, 2,552 of which occurred in Jakarta.



Komnas Perempuan commissioner Indriyati Suparno said victims of sexual or domestic violence were often reluctant to report cases to law enforcement officials because of bureaucratic red tape or the inappropriate treatment they have to endure.



For example, investigators would often ask them whether they went out at night or what type of dress they wore at the time of the incident instead of focusing on the case, Indriyati added.



The presence of safe houses should be appreciated. But what is more important is the legal assistance and counselling the victims get from the administration, she said, adding that similar houses were already present in several other provinces, including Central Java and Yogyakarta.



Tuty said the PPAPP was working on integrating the reports it received from the Jakarta Police, which would enable them to be used by the police to investigate cases without having to ask the victims the same questions.



Since September, we have also cooperated with the Ancol Recreational Park in [North Jakarta] to allow victims to visit the site as part of an attempt to help them overcome their trauma, she added.



In May last year, the administration issued a regulation that allows women who are victims of sexual violence to be examined for free at hospitals.



The exam is a crucial element for victims to file police reports.

This article was originally published in The Jakarta Post's print edition on Dec. 3, 2018, with the title "Jakarta steps up efforts to protect women, children".Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Fachrul Sidiq (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3 2018

The Jakarta administration has earned praise for issuing Gubernatorial Regulation No. 48/2018 on safe houses for children and women who are victims of violence.

The safe houses, whose locations are confidential, allow victims to get maximum protection from perpetrators. They also offer counseling and legal assistance.

Since being launched in May, two safe houses administered by the city have housed 79 victims out of 1,510 residents who reported their cases to the administration.

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Linkedin Gisela Swaragita (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 09:52 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e030b43 1 City durian-festival,durian,jakarta,blok-m-square,blok-m,fruit,culinary-business,food,#food Free

You either hate it or love it when it comes to durian. The spiky fruit known for its pungent smell and gooey flesh may turn some people off, but it has won over the palates and hearts of many, like those who gathered at Blok M Square in South Jakarta on Saturday for their love of the the king of fruit.



Hundreds of people, both sellers and visitors, flocked to the Durian World Festival held in the front yard of the shopping center.



Rodhi, a durian seller from Semarang, Central Java, enthusiastically took part in the festival, which was held the second time this year, on Saturday. He and two of his employees tended to their booth, offering visitors free samples of his best-selling durian variety called otak udang. It is a special breed from Central Kalimantan known for its sweet and tender flesh.



They are farmed organically by the Dayak tribespeople in the forests of Central Kalimantan, he told The Jakarta Post.



Rodhi had driven 13 hours to take part in the festival. He brought along 600 durian of other varieties as well, such as petruk and monthong.



Another durian seller, Wardy, who hails from Bogor, West Java, was also hopeful that his 120 durian would sell well.



I have the best of durian matahari, which are from a local farm in Bogor, and durian Medan, Wardy said.



Fransica Merlina, the owner of Natasha Event Organizer, which organizes the festival, said she initiated the festival for her personal love of the petruk variety, in particular.



Durian is like a national trademark of Indonesia, she said.



Also, according to my experience in organizing food festivals, durian never fails to attract its lovers so the festival is also good for the sellers.



Twenty-six durian sellers are partaking in the festival, held from Nov. 30 to Dec. 9. They have come from various regions, such as Banyuwangi in East Java, Padang in West Sumatra and several areas in Kalimantan.



All have brought along their special durian varieties to offer visitors, she said.



With this festival, I hope all durian lovers can enjoy the richness of various durian breeds from all over Indonesia only by visiting Blok M Square, she said, adding that the organizer expected to welcome around 40,000 visitors over the weekend.



Besides the fruit, some sellers are also offering durian-based food and beverages such as ketan durian (sweet sticky rice with durian flesh), es cendol durian (durian infused rice jelly with fresh coconut milk) and durian pancake. Meanwhile, some stalls are offering ready-to-plant fruit trees like mango, jackfruit and durian as well as the home farming equipment.



Visitors can devour the delicacy at tables lined up among rows of durian stalls.



Charlaeni, 56, who came with her husband, said she had always been a durian enthusiast.



We drove from our home in Bintaro, South Tangerang just to eat durian here. It is a fun way to spend the weekend, she said.



She said she had spent more than Rp 600,000 (US$41.95) on various kinds of durian to eat on site as well as to bring home.



Three best friends, Armita, Nida, and Sari, all 19 years old, visited the event to tryout the delicacies offered, as they claimed to be food festival enthusiasts.



These two like durian, but I actually cant stand the smell. Fortunately, this festival also has non-durian foods here, Nida said as she enjoyed a portion of mango es teler (an iced desert with sweet fermented cassava, ripe mango flesh and coconut milk.

This article was originally published in The Jakarta Post's print edition on Dec. 3, 2018, with the title "King of fruit reigns as durian festival gathers crowd".Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 15:27 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e042688 1 National #Riau,#died,bodies,floating,Malaysia,waters Free

The Riau Police are investigating the death of eight people, whose bodies were found floating in the Strait of Malacca off the coast of Bengkalis Island, Riau, bordering with neighboring Malaysia, recently.



Authorities and fishermen in Bantan subdistrict discovered three of the bodies in late November, while the rest were retrieved gradually until Sunday. The bodies have been taken to Bhayangkara Police Hospital in Pekanbaru, Riau, for identification.



"Based on our probe, we estimate that the bodies had been floating in the waters for more than a month," Comr. Supriyanto, the head of the medical service division at Bhayangkara Police Hospital, said on Monday as quoted by Antara news agency.



While most of the bodies were no longer intact, Supriyanto said the bodies showed no apparent signs of violence.



Personnel from the disaster victim identification (DVI) unit , however, faced difficulties in identifying the bodies, including through fingerprint identification, because most of the corpses had started to decay, Supriyanto said.



Bengkalis Police in Riau are coordinating with the Royal Malaysian Police to investigate the deaths, Bengkalis Police criminal investigation division head Adj. Comr. Andrie Setiawan said.



Three of the eight bodies have been identified as Ujang Chaniago, 48, from Pesisir Selatan regency, West Sumatra; Mimi Dewi, 32, from Pesisir Selatan regency; West Sumatra, and Maya Karina, 37, from Mojokerto regency, East Java. (afr)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 16:49 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e047c4a 4 Business Bekasi,karawang,Purwakarta,National-Strategic-Projects,Luhut-Binsar-Panjaitan Free

The government plans to develop West Javas Bekasi, Karawang and Purwakarta integrated economic and industry zone (KEIT) into a national strategic area (KSN) to further facilitate the opening of more factories in the region.

Coordinating Maritime Affairs Minister Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan said the government had implemented a study and planned to establish a special public service agency (BLU) to manage the new strategic area (KSN Bekapur).

The project will soon be taken into a limited Cabinet meeting attended by President Joko [Jokowi] Widodo, Luhut told journalists at his office over the weekend.

He said the BLU was aimed at increasing productivity in the three citys industrial areas, which currently host 23 industrial estates, involving 4,154 industries, employing some 1.6 million workers and contributing 14 percent to the gross domestic product (GDP) of the national industry.

Luhut said the areas would be connected to the Patimban Seaport in Subang, West Java, which is still under construction, as well as the newly launched Kertajati International Airport in Majalengka, also in West Java.

We will concentrate our industry in the area because 60 percent of our industries are already there. We expect our exports to improve, said Luhut as reported by kontan.co.id.

Several issues were addressed before expanding the areas manufacturing activities, including a better water supply, better waste treatment facilities, better road access within the industrial areas and better integration of the licensing arrangement. (bbn)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Vela Andapita (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 09:28 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e02e89a 1 City Seashells,Kampung-Kerang-Ijo,North-Jakarta,Penjaringan-North-Jakarta,tidal-floods Free

It was 3 p.m. on Saturday when Beti, Umi Kulsum and five other women were busy shelling green mussels in front of a house facing North Jakarta Bay in Kampung Kerang Ijo (Green Mussel Village) in Pluit subdistrict in Penjaringan, North Jakarta.



The fetidness of large, old shells mixed with the smell of the ocean did not seem to bother them, as they talked non-stop and threw jokes at each other while skillfully shucking mussels before throwing them into a plastic container and discarding the shells onto a pile beside the container. They had been working since 9 a.m. and would finish at 5 p.m.



Here is your payment for today, the owner of the house and green mussels business owner, Arti Tati Astati, said, handing out Rp 30,000 (US$2) to each of the women. That day, they shucked around 30 kilograms of mussels, which were collected by Tatis husband, a fisherman, on the same day.



When the mussels are thick, we can get more than this. But this is also fine, Beti said as she folded and put the money into a small pouch.



She said that, on a good day, they could shuck up to 40 kg of mussels, which could increase their earnings to Rp 35,000.



Soon after Beti and Umi Kulsum completed their job, Tati laid the empty shells alongside older shells in her front yard.



Tatis house, along with dozens of other houses in Kampung Blok Empang, Tembok Bolong and Blok Eceng, the three areas of which were recently recognized as part of community unit (RW) 22 by the city administration, sits on piles of mussel shells. RW 22 comprises 12 neighborhood units (RT).



Many homes in the area, including Tatis, used to be stilt houses that stood above empang (fish ponds).



Six years ago, when I started living in this house, this place was surrounded by water. Now, after years of piling up the shells and stacking them all over the place, our house stands over a solid surface, Tati explained.



There are currently around 20 green mussel businesses in the kampung, including mine. Each of the businesses employ up to 15 workers and we treat the shells the same way, Tati, who also is the head of RT 6, said.



Thanks to the mussel shells, residents do not need to spend money to buy sand to elevate the surface around their houses to prevent tidal floods from affecting them.



Many of my neighbors take [the shells] for free. Those who dont have time to do it by themselves and need my help can pay Rp 2,000 per sack, the 37-year-old woman said.



Head of RW 22 Arpani said there were over 1,000 families residing in the four kampungs. Since the RW and RT were established, as officiated by the Pluit subdistrict heads instructions in December 2017 and April this year respectively, many residents are now eligible to receive social assistance and facilities all Jakartans are entitled to, such as Jakarta Smart Card Plus (KJP Plus).



Wearing a sleeveless shirt and sarong in his modest house, Arpani told The Jakarta Post that he was among the first wave of people to move to Muara Angke in the 1970s. He and many other men created empang along the shore and lived above them, developing one of the first kampungs in Muara Angke as a result.



An eviction that took place in Kapuk, North Jakarta, in 1995 led hundreds of families to seek refuge along the northern edge of the kampung. Other waves of evictees came in 2003 from Kali Adem and Kali Asin.



It was during the era of the late governor Sutiyoso. People came, reclaimed the fish ponds using mussel shells, piled them up and built houses on them, he said.



But thats OK, now were living here together as residents of RW 22, the 74-year-old added.



Arpani, however, said that, although they lived in an area recognized as a RW, many were still hesitant to update their address on their ID cards.



Many of them are still borrowing addresses from other RWs for their ID cards. But now that RW 22 is established, its their loss, he said.

This article was originally published in The Jakarta Post's print edition on Dec. 3, 2018, with the title "Seashells make up land for city kampung".Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Apriadi Gunawan (The Jakarta Post) Medan  Mon, December 3, 2018 16:24 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e045f1d 1 Business Taman-Simalem-Resort,sustainable-tourism,award,Tourism-Ministry Free

Taman Simalem Resort (TSR) in Merek district, Karo regency, North Sumatra, has won a 2018 Indonesia Sustainable Tourism Award (ISTA) from the Tourism Ministry.

The resort won the Wonderful Indonesia Tourism Award from the ministry in 2017.

TSR operational director Bernard Tay expressed his appreciation to the local community, the municipal administration, provincial administration and the North Sumatra Tourism Academy for their support.

Meanwhile, TSR general manager Eddy Tanoto said as the recipient of the ISTA, TSR would be included in a similar competition organized by ASEAN.

Karo Tourism Agency head Mulia Barus congratulated TSR for the award, saying that it recognized the seriousness of TSRs management in implementing the principles of sustainable tourism.

Barus said the 200-hectare park had become an international tourist destination (bbn)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 15:48 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e043617 1 National plastic-waste,plastic-ban,plastic-bottle,Tjahjo-Kumolo,Home-Minister Free

Home Minister Tjahjo Kumolo has begun a battle against plastic waste, ordering all officials under the ministry, including canteens in the building in Central Jakarta, to refrain from using single-use water bottles, cups and straws.

He made the call for all officials within the Home Ministry and the National Border Management Agency (BNPP) on Jl. Medan Merdeka Utara to support the eco-friendly movement on Monday.



"Starting today, let's stop drinking water in [single-use plastic bottles] and stop using plastic straws both during official events and every day at the office," Tjahjo said as quoted by Antara.



The minister also asked his staff to install posters and banners around the ministry to promote the green movement.

"Counters that sell food within the office compound also have to stop using plastic. They have to serve water with a glass," he said.



The movement to reduce plastic waste in the country has gained more attention following the recent discovery of 5.9 kilograms of garbage inside the stomach of a dead sperm whale on Kapota Island, Southeast Sulawesi.



At least 115 plastic cups, 19 hard plastic pieces, four plastic bottles and 25 plastic bags were found among the garbage inside the animal's stomach.



Vice President Jusuf Kalla previously said that the government was mulling over measures to reduce plastic waste, including disincentive for consumers who use plastic bags. (evi)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) Washington, United States  Mon, December 3, 2018 09:41 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e0302a3 2 World #USA,#DonaldTrump,advisor,pardon-offer,Russia,probe,Wikileaks Free

Roger Stone, an informal adviser to US President Donald Trump, denied Sunday that the two had discussed a possible presidential pardon at a time when Stone is said to be under mounting scrutiny from prosecutors investigating Russian interference.

Stone also denied having had any contact during the 2016 presidential campaign with Julian Assange, the creator of WikiLeaks, the site that published hacked messages from Trump's Democratic opponents in an apparent bid to influence the election.

"I had no contact with Assange," Stone told ABC's "This Week" program. "We have had no communication with (Assange) whatsoever."

He said he had not been contacted by Robert Mueller, the special prosecutor investigating possible collusion or coordination between Trump's campaign team and Russia.

Asked whether he would expect a pardon from the president if indicted by Mueller, Stone replied, "I've had no discussion regarding a pardon."

But Stone insisted that he would never testify against his longtime friend.

"There's no circumstance under which I would testify against the president, because I'd have to bear false witness against him," he said. "I'd have to make things up, and I'm not going to do that."

Mueller has negotiated cooperation deals with several key witnesses, notably Trump's former lawyer Michael Cohen, in exchange for reduced prison sentences for various charges.

Stone and one of his contacts, Jerome Corsi, are suspected of having had advance knowledge that WikiLeaks would, in the summer of 2016, publish a trove of hacked Democratic emails that would prove damaging to Trump's presidential rival, Hillary Clinton.

The ABC interviewer, George Stephanopoulos, asked Stone about emails in which he reportedly instructed Corsi in mid-2016 to "get to Assange at the Ecuadoran embassy in London and get the pending WikiLeaks email."

But Stone insisted he had broken no law.

"I'm certainly guilty of bluffing and posturing and punking the Democrats," he said, before adding, "Where is the crime?

"I engaged in politics."Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Krissy Aguilar (Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN) Manila  Mon, December 3, 2018 13:03 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e039e95 2 SE Asia #SoutheastAsia,#Media,Philippines,Rappler,arrest,warrants Free

Rappler chief executive officer and executive editor Maria Ressa confirmed that an arrest warrant had already been issued against her.

Our lawyers have verified. A warrant of arrest was issued. Im ready to post bail. I will do what our lawyers advise, Ressa told reporters at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 as she arrived in Manila on Sunday.

She added: It is easier to navigate a conflict zone, a war zone than it is to navigate the social media world and the legal weaponization of laws in our country. But we hold the line.

Ressa and Rappler face four tax evasion cases filed by the Department of Justice (DOJ). Three of the cases were filed before the Court of Tax Appeals and the other one was filed at the Pasig City Regional Trial Court.

Based on the complaint, Ressa and Rappler Holdings Corporation failed to indicate in the companys 2015 tax returns the total gain of almost P162.5 million, which was due to the issuance of Philippine Depositary Receipts to Washington DC-based NBM Rappler LP, a unit of North Base Media and Omidyar Network Find LLC.

Ressa had been mostly out of the country to receive several awards for Rappler including, including the 2018 Knight International Journalism award given in Washington, DC by the International Center for Journalists and the Gwen Ifill Press Freedom Award given in New York City by the Committee to Protect Journalists.

Ressa reiterated that she legally raised money for Rappler, saying I successfully and legally raised money to make an idea a reality.

Even as the government filed these tax cases, they continue to send tax agents to our office looking for documentation to beef it up, she said.

Ressa also maintained that the cases have no basis: We have multiple cases and we will continue to fight every one of these cases, each of these cases have no real basis.

Im personally under attack. Rappler as a company is under attack. I think we all know that the line has been moved, she addedShare this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 16:35 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e046861 1 News AirAsia,#AirAsia,Airlines,low-cost-carrier,#airlines,travel,#travel,award,#awards,cabin-crew Free

Low-cost airline AirAsia has been named the worlds Leading Low-Cost Carrier at the grand final of the 2018 Travel Awards for six consecutive years, according to a statement.

Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards is said to be one of the most prestigious and comprehensive awards program in the tourist industry.

This year, AirAsia received the most votes from travelers and industry executives in the category, putting it ahead of similar airlines, such as Southwest Airlines, JetBlue, Ryanair, easyJet, Jetstar Airways, Norwegian Air, West Air, flydubai, Air Arabia, flynas and fastjet.

In addition to winning the Worlds Best Low-Cost Carrier category, AirAsia also won the Worlds Leading Low-Cost Airline Cabin Crew for two consecutive years, beating Southwest Airlines, JetBlue, Ryanair, easyJet, Jetstar Airways, Norwegian Air, West Air, flydubai, Air Arabia, flynas, fastjet, Kulula dan Mango.

Read also: West Nusa Tenggara, AirAsia team up to open Lombok-Perth route

AirAsia deputy group CEO Bo Lingam thanked those who voted for the airline.

Over the past year, we have worked hard to improve customer experience to make travel more convenient and fun, while also personalizing the end-to-end journey, and its incredibly rewarding to see our work pay off like this, said Lingam.

In addition to a slew of digital initiatives, such as our Fast Airport Clearance Experience System [FACES] facial recognition boarding system and Freedom Flyer Programme, weve built up our Customer Happiness team to ensure we continue to improve on our ability to serve and amaze our guests, who demand frictionless, responsive customer support at a touch of the button on the go, and we are working hard to deliver that, added Lingam. (jes/kes)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, December 3, 2018 19:32 1088 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e04f72e 4 News Banyuwangi,geopark,ecotourism,travel Free

Banyuwangi regency in East Java has been declared a taman bumi (earth park), or national geological park (geopark), by the National Geopark Community. A certificate on the status of the regency was presented in Bogor on Friday.

Banyuwangi Regent Abdullah Azwar Anas said the declaration encouraged the regency to optimize nature-based tourism, kompas.com reported.

The geopark status [for Banyuwangi] will complement the Ijen Blue Fire and the Alas Purwo National Park that have been declared biosphere reserves under the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves. It also strengthen Banyuwangis position for ecotourism, said Anas.

The regent said he was also aiming for Banyuwangi to be listed as a UNESCO Global Geopark following an evaluation next year.

We will soon follow up on the committees recommendations, Anas went on to say.

Banyuwangi is proposing three sites as geoparks, namely Blue Fire at Mount Ijen, Pulau Merah (Red Island) and the Alas Purwo National Park. The former is among the most prominent blue flame phenomena and most acidic craters in the world.

Meanwhile, Red Island and the cave complex of the Alas Purwo National Park are listed as areas of high mineralization, as the former is a residual from magma circulating under an ancient volcano.

Read also: A closer look at Indonesia's four UNESCO-recognized Global Geoparks

The discovery of stones at Red Island makes for an ideal geology laboratory to study the alteration and mineralization of copper gold. Moreover, geological traces at the Istana cave in the Alas Purwo National Park reveal that the area was once a shallow sea that transformed into land.

The Banyuwangi geopark also features diverse biodiversity and cultural diversity. Fourteen flora and 27 fauna species, including six mammals, are found in the Ijen area, while the Alas Purwo National Park is home to 700 plants, 50 mammals, 320 birds, 48 reptiles and 15 amphibious species.

With all the particularities of geology, flora, fauna and cultural heritage that we [Banyuwangi] possess, we have promoted ecotourism as the base of developing tourism from the outset, Anas was quoted as saying.

Indonesia now has four UNESCO global geoparks and 15 national geoparks. All these geoparks contribute some 35 percent to total ecotourism revenue in Indonesia. (mut)Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Sonia Logre and Charles Onians (Agence France-Presse) Pisa, Italy  Mon, December 3, 2018 11:08 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e033bc3 2 News Tower-of-Pisa,Italy,travel,destination,tourism Free

"It's still straightening," said engineer Roberto Cela, gazing at the Leaning Tower of Pisa gleaming in the autumn sunshine of northern Italy. "And many years will have to pass before it stops."

The gravitationally-challenged landmark is leaning less after years of ambitious engineering work. Fortunately for the millions of tourists who come here every year, the 57-metre (186-feet) tower remains beautifully askance.

The medieval bell tower, a symbol of the power of the maritime republic of Pisa in the Middle Ages, has leaned to one side ever since building started in 1173 on ground that proved a little too soft.

The tower was closed to the public in January 1990 for 11 years over safety fears, as its tilt reached 4.5 meters (15 feet) from the vertical, threatening to turn it into a pile of rubble.

"We installed a number of tubes underground, on the side that the Tower leans away from," said Cela, technical director at the OPA, which looks after Pisa's main monuments.

"We removed soil by drilling very carefully. Thanks to this system, we recovered half a degree of lean," he said.

Michele Jamiolkowski, an engineer of Polish origin who adopted Italian nationality, coordinated an international committee to rescue the landmark between 1993 and 2001.

Engineering lecturer Nunziante Squeglia of Pisa University, who works with the Surveillance Group that was set up after the rescue work, has been studying and measuring the tower for 25 years.

He says that the tower straightened by 41 centimetres (16 inches) until 2001, and another four centimetres since then.

Read also: Not-so-Leaning Tower of Pisa as landmark straightens

Still mysterious

To understand how the 14,500-tonne building is moving, measurements are made as often as once an hour, some automatically using pendulums, some manually using a surveyor's optical level.

"The tower tends to deform and reduce its lean in the summer, when it's hot, because the tower leans to the south, so its southern side is warmed, and the stone expands. And by expanding, the tower straightens," said Squeglia.

He explains that there are three pendulums, one dating back to 1935, when systematic measurements began, although annual measurements began as far back as 1911.

"The tower was much more mysterious when I arrived, it wasn't clear why it was leaning, and increasingly leaning," said Squeglia.

"It is a building that has been extensively studied for over 100 years but there are still so many things to know," he said, including the remains of what looks like a domed roof inside the tower that is still unexplained.

Meanwhile, Cela predicted that the tower "will never be completely straight".

"When they were building it, there were attempts to straighten it (by adding stone on one side), so it has a slight banana shape."

Singaporean tourist Alvin, who like many visitors is taking photos of friends 'holding up' the tower in the background, said he didn't know about the decreased lean.

"Oh I didn't notice, is it because like everyone's pushing against it?" he said, promising to try to push the tower back if it straightens too much.Share this article Whatsapp

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Linkedin Sohn Ji-young (The Korea Herald/Asia News Network) Seoul  Mon, December 3, 2018 17:36 1089 75e76da2d15e495661b6357e2e0498af 2 News Kakao,taxi,travel,travelers,Japan,JapanTaxi Free

Beginning later this week, South Korean travelers in Japan will be able to use the Kakao T taxi-hailing app to fetch taxis locally. The app is set to be interlinked with JapanTaxi, the biggest taxi-hailing company in Japan.

Starting Thursday, the option will become available on the Kakao T app, enabling users to hail taxis in Japan without additional registration procedures, said Kakao Mobility, the mobility business unit of Koreas mobile-messaging giant Kakao.

The service is not free -- a call fee will automatically be paid via the credit card registered on the app, on top of the regular taxi fare paid to the driver. Kakao is still determining the appropriate fee to charge, it said.

The new service, equipped with a Korean-Japanese translation function, is expected to benefit the large number of Korean tourists who visit Japan every year, Kakao said.

Read also: Autonomous taxi trial carrying passengers begins in Tokyo

To access the new feature, users will need to download the updated version of the Kakao T app Thursday.

Kakao plans to further interlink its services with the JapanTaxi app so that Japanese tourists in Korea can likewise call up taxis in Korea using the JapanTaxi app.



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This article appeared on The Korea Herald newspaper website, which is a member of Asia News Network and a media partner of The Jakarta PostWhat a lovely and kind thing to do.well done Mrs McLaughlan! Not only is it a very thoughtful thing to do but a great example to our kids as well Share away people Posted by Linsey Milloy on Thursday, November 29, 2018

Kate McLaughlan (back row right) with her pupils at the school in Port Glasgow. The teacher has asked her pupils not to buy her any Christmas presents this year, but to help her donate to a local foodbank instead  (Photo courtesy of Newark Primary School)

URGENT APPEALCan you help The i58 Project this Christmas!Please watch the following video message.See below for the links to sign up for supermarket collections either Greenock, Port Glasgow or both!Greenock Collection Sign up:https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0848AAA92AA6FD0-inverclydePort Glasgow Collection Sign up:https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0848AAA92AA6FD0-inverclyde1Crowdfunder Link for donationshttps://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/the-i58-project-at-christmas Posted by The i58 Project on Wednesday, November 28, 2018

Kate McLaughlan, from Newark Primary School in Port Glasgow, Scotland, explained in a letter to parents and carers that the donations to Inverclyde Foodbank will teach the children the spirit of giving and kindness. She will send blank envelopes home with the pupils into which donations can be placed, before the students will gather together on December 17 to count the money and write a shopping list for the foodbank.Please do not feel you have to donate and if you do choose to, then 1 is plenty, wrote Mrs McLaughlan. This is about teaching the children about the spirit of giving and kindness, not about raising record breaking amounts. Parent to seven-year-old pupil Sofia, Linsey Milloy posted the letter to Facebook where it has been shared thousands of times. I was really touched by the generosity of Mrs McLaughlan, the 37-year-old told the Press Association. I think this shows everyone the true spirit of Christmas and am proud that my daughters class will be part of this. Doing all of this gives them great experience in social learning and its an excellent example to set to our children. Mrs McLaughlan said in the letter she had been overwhelmed by the kind and thoughtful gifts given to her by her pupils last year, which included chocolates, jewellery, and bath products.The staff at Newark Primary are incredibly nurturing and work hard to support the local community, Mrs McLaughlan told the Press Association. This year we are not swapping Secret Santa gifts or cards, but sharing the money between three different charities: Rosies Rascals, Inverclyde Foodbank and Compassionate Inverclyde, and we are asking for a food donation for the food bank on entrance to our Christmas fair. I work in a fantastic community with many unsung heroes. I would love the result of this to be that lots of charities benefit, the true spirit of Christmas is shared, and teacher presents become a thing of the past. There are teachers in my school who donate to the foodbank with every weekly shop and also volunteer. They really are the people who need the recognition. The i58 Project, who run Inverclyde Foodbank, recently shared a video to social media explaining it had been unable to open due to a shortage of food on its shelves, an issue they explained is now a weekly occurrence. The video called for help with the incoming high demand of winter and Christmas.My daughter and the rest of her class are really keen to help with this, said Mrs Milloy. To me if other people followed suit with Mrs McLaughlan this would help greatly. Not only does it help those in need of assistance from the food bank, it also take financial pressure of if parents. I guess youll see it in every schools where some of the presents given to teachers are just taken too far and may make other pupils feel that their gifts are inadequate. By gifting a couple of pounds in an anonymous envelope or even handing an empty envelope there is no judgment either way.

remaining of

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.Peter Gay is the executive director of North Attleboro Community Television Inc.  North TV. The views expressed in his column are not necessarily those of North TV. Reach him at at pgay@northtv.net.MBABANE -What was meant to be a perfect farewell celebration for Grade VII pupils of SOS Hermann Gmeiner School has left a bitter taste in the mouths of their parents.



This is because the parents are aggrieved that their children ate what they have termed cheap food despite that they had paid so much money for the party.

About E200 was paid by each parent for the 98 pupils who attended the party three weeks ago.



The parents, after seeing photos of the food that was served to the pupils were disappointed as they felt it was not worth the money they paid.

It has been gathered that the parents then discussed the issue and agreed that a delegation, comprising about three of them, should be sent to the school to demand answers on what exactly happened. The agreement was that if the response from the administration was not satisfactory, the delegation should just ask for a refund.



Last week, the delegation did meet with the Head teacher, Linda Thwala, to demand answers.

One parent interviewed by this newspaper minced no words saying what the school had done was shocking.

The female parent, who asked not to be named, said the school promised them a lot including proper food for their children.



It is not fair. The takeaways that were given to our children were just not up to standard. They looked cheap with no curry or vegetables. Since nothing has happened so far in terms of getting a refund, we are ready to take the matter to the Ministry of Education and Training, she said. This newspaper gathered that the takeaways for the pupils were provided by a popular restaurant which operates in the capital city and that each takeaway cost E110.

Another parent stated that there was no way that the food given to their children would cost E110.



I have been to the restaurant countless times to buy food and from what I have seen the most expensive cost between E35 or E40, which is usually the mutton curry. My child only ate rice, one piece of chicken and two types of salads and that cannot cost so much, she said.

When asked if they had visited the restaurant, the parents said they saw no need since they were not its clients.



The restaurants client is the school and not us so that is why we approached the administration. I want my money because I believe what my child was given is not worth what I paid, a parent said.

Payment slips in this newspapers possession reveal that the school paid about E15 000 just for the food at the popular eatery.



Called for comment, the head teacher confirmed that he had been visited by some of the aggrieved parents.

They came to me and I explained to them. We agreed that perhaps the committee that was tasked with organising the event was still to compile a report.

When such an event is organised, it is the class teachers that do most of the job and my task is to just approve, Thwala said. He mentioned that he had a problem with the fact that he was now being blamed when in actual fact he was not the one who cooked the food.



Right now we are in disagreement because the food that was delivered was not up to standard. I have presented the parents with all receipts so that they can see that everything was done openly. So I would suggest that if they are aggrieved, we can come together collectively and go to the restaurant to get the answers that they want, he said.

Thwala highlighted that the parents were welcome to visit him again in the event that they were still not convinced.MBABANE - EmaSwati have taken the ruling that makes corporal punishment illegal in the home negatively.



This follows that the Constitutional Court of South Africa prohibited corporal punishment in the home last Thursday.

As it stands in Eswatini, parents are allowed to hit their children with the justification of corporal punishment being a form of discipline. According to ENCA, a South African news network, the South Gauteng High Court ruled that the common law defence of reasonable chastisement was not in line with the Constitution and no longer applied in their law.



The judgment arose from an appeal by a father who had been found guilty of assault because he beat his 13-year-old son in a manner that exceeded the bounds of reasonable punishment.

The court emphasised that the intention was not to charge parents with a crime, but rather to guide and support parents in finding more positive and effective ways of disciplining children.

Meanwhile, Traditionalist Bongani Sigcokosiyancinca Dlamini was of the assertion that prohibiting corporal punishment would be sparing the rod and spoiling the child.



He maintained that the ban of corporal punishment was a deprivation of childrens rights and privileges.

It is wrong to deprive children the rights and privileges that we once received and banning punishment in children would be just that, said Dlamini.

He said if children were not to be beaten, they would be spoiled and their future would be ruined.



The traditionalist stated that a child should be punished in a responsible manner, to make him aware that he or her is wrong. Dlamini, however, mentioned that the passing of such laws was done to govern situations which were offside in an environment.

He explained that the laws were to circumvent the damages caused by teachers and parents who went overboard in punishing children. Dlamini however also stated that this law would have to be reviewed and discussed before we even started contemplating to implement it in the kingdom.

EmaSwati were also not keen on the idea of the prohibition of corporal punishment.MBABANE - It would be a big mistake for Parliament to do away with the vote of no confidence.



This is the feeling of former Members of Parliament, who shared their views following a statement by Senators to the effect that the vote of no confidence should be avoided.

The senators made their feeling known during their workshop which was held at the Royal Swazi Sun last week.



By definition, a motion of no-confidence, alternatively vote of no confidence, or (unsuccessful) confidence motion, is a statement or vote which states that a person(s) in a position of responsibility (government, managerial, etc.) is no longer deemed fit to hold that position, perhaps because they are inadequate in some respect, are failing to carry out obligations, or are making decisions that other members feel are detrimental.

As a parliamentary motion, it demonstrates to the head of state that the elected parliament no longer has confidence in (one or more members of) the appointed government.



Vocal about the vote of no confidence was former National Commissioner of Police Senator Isaac Magagula, who said he felt like it was some sort of humiliation, especially when passed on Cabinet ministers.

I do understand that we all have privileges and in these days where people have rights to freedom of speech, some of them can just pass a vote of no confidence just for the public gallery. There is a need for both Houses to work in harmony, said Magagula.

He was supported by the Deputy Prime Minister ,Themba Masuku, who told the members to stay away from passing a vote of no confidence on government.



However, the former MPs have said that the vote of no confidence should always apply in Parliament as it was the perfect way of holding government accountable.

In separate interviews, the former legislators said doing away with the vote of no confidence would lead to a situation where government would do things willy-nilly and forget about its mandate of service delivery to the nation.

Furthermore, the former MPs said doing away with such an instrument would put the country in bad light.



Other former legislators said doing away with the instrument would mean that the country had no respect for the Constitution, which provided for a vote of no confidence to be passed on the prime minister and his or her Cabinet.

Section 68 of the Constitution of Eswatini, 2005 stipulates clearly that the office of the Prime Minister shall become vacant where a resolution of no confidence is passed on him or hereby at least two thirds majority of all members of the House.

The supreme law of the land allows His Majesty King Mswati III to dissolve Cabinet in the event that a vote of no confidence has been passed on it. Where a resolution of no confidence is passed on the Cabinet by a three-fifths majority of all members of the House the King shall dissolve the Cabinet, the Constitution stipulates.MANZINI  Two Zionists have died after the unroadworthy Toyota Hilux LDV they were travelling in overturned.



The accident took place at Maphopheni in Mafutseni along Hhelehhele/Ngogola Public Road on Saturday at around 2:10am.

Information gathered from a well placed source was that there were 14 Zionists travelling in the car and they were going to a funeral around Siteki and five of them were fighting for their lives in hospital.



The source said Clifford Howard Mndzebele (30) of Mahlangatsha, who was driving the Toyota Hilux LDV with registration numbers HSD 842 BM, lost control of the car after one of its tyres burst and it overturned, injuring the 14 Zion church members.

The source said one of the Zion church members died on the spot while the other died while undergoing treatment at the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial (RFM) Hospital yesterday.



All the passengers were injured and despite the two who died, five of them are in critical condition in hospital, the source said.

Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Phindile Vilakati confirmed the accident and said the driver had been arrested and charged with culpable homicide and driving an unroadworthy car on a public road.

Later yesterday, the driver of the car, who had a bandage around his head, appeared before Manzini Senior Magistrate Sindisile Zwane where he was officially slapped with two counts.



According to the charge sheet, on the first count, Mndzebele was charged with culpable homicide in that on December 2, 2018 at 2:10am near Maphopheni along Mafutseni-Ngogola MR 3 Public Road, the accused person drove the car negligently and lost control of it before it overturned.



Passengers



Two passengers; Jabu Mathunjwa, a 31-year-old woman of Ngculwini and Thabisile Ngomane, a 38-year-old woman of Mahlanya were certified dead upon arrival at RFM Hospital, read part of the charge sheet.

In the particulars of the negligent driving, the charge sheet stated that the accused person allegedly drove the car without due care and attention and failed to apply brakes on time. It was also alleged that Mndzebele failed to avoid an accident which a reasonable driver could have avoided.



In count two, the accused person was charged for contravening Section 50 (1) as read with 122 (4) of the Road Traffic Act 6 of 2007. It was said that on Saturday morning, the driver allegedly drove the aforementioned car on public road while it was unroadworthy. In the particulars of the unroadworthiness, the charge sheet alleged that all the four car tyres were worn out, had defective handbrake and worn out shock absorbers.MBABANE  Even before the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence could finish, cases of passionate killings continue to occur in the Kingdom of Eswatini.



The latest crime of passion is that of a 21-year-old woman who was brutally murdered by the father of her two children.

The incident happened at an area called Sibovu, which is situated a few kilometres from Mankayane.



It has been gathered that Sincedile Bhembe of Mambatfweni area was brutally murdered allegedly by her baby daddy.

The suspect, who worked in Emerlo, South Africa, is said to have allegedly committed the crime last Saturday.



The suspects name is known to this newspaper, but has been deliberately withheld, pending his appearance in court.

A family member who asked not to be named, said the young woman took her children, aged four and two years, to their fathers home and that it was the last time they saw her.



The family member said they were shocked to get a call from people informing them that she had been found murdered.

What we gathered was that he stabbed her three times next to one of her breasts and this occurred just a few metres from his home, the family member said.



She alleged that her relative had always stated that they were having arguments following alleged suspicions of cheating but that she never thought it would get to a point where she would lose her life.



We are saddened by this, especially because we thought they had sorted whatever problems they had. Just two weeks ago, she had visited him and everything seemed fine, she highlighted.



Humble



She described her relative as one person who was humble and did not talk much.

In her view, her death was not just a sad moment for the family but her two young children as they would now grow up without a father.

Confirming the incident was Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Phindile Vilakati.



Vilakati stated that the suspect was arrested by the police on Sunday in connection with the crime.

We can confirm that a mother of two was brutally murdered by the father of her children. The man has been arrested and the police are investigating, she said.



It seems like the Manzini Region has become a fertile ground for gender-based violent.

This is because in the past month there were several cases where men killed their lovers.

In one of the incidents, a baby mama was stabbed 20 times allegedly by her lover.



This was followed by another incident where a woman, identified by the police as Ellan Du pont (27), was strangled to death by her lover while she was headed home, Malkerns, from her place of employment.



Information gathered was that the suspect had been hiding in the nearby bushes situated near his lovers homestead when she was dropped off by a stranger who had been driving a sedan.



After the car had dropped her off, he allegedly emerged from the forest and tried conversing with her.

The two were no longer seeing eye-to-eye and suspicions were that he had come to meet with her over their issues.

However, an argument ensued and she was strangled and died a few metres from her homestead.

She was certified dead upon arrival in hospital.A recent survey from Eurostat, the European Statistics Authority, shows how Europeans in major cities feel about their their quality of life, according to greekreporter.com

There is some surprising good news for Greece, as Athenians overall satisfaction with their city rose compared to the last study.

Factors Eurostat took into account were transportation, educational and health infrastructure, the ability to find a job and ease in renting a house. The inclusion of migrants into society, the effectiveness of public services and the levels of noise, air pollution and city cleanliness were also measured.

In sixty-three European cities, the health infrastructure was considered to be one of the top three factors in their inhabitants quality of life, with people in twenty-seven of those cities considering it the most important issue.

In fifty-two cities the problem of unemployment was among the top three worries. Residents from a total of fifty-nine cities named their educational institutions in the top three contributors to the quality of their lives.

In some good news for Greece, Athens recorded the highest increase of positive answers compared to the last survey, conducted in 2012. In an answer to a general question about how happy they are living in their own city, 71% of Athenians said they were satisfied.

Still, seventy-one percent ranks low in life-quality approval among all the European cities studied, with Vilnius, Lithuania recording an impressive 98 percent satisfied residents.

Nevertheless, Athens ranks quite high regarding public transportation, with 72 percent being satisfied, compared to an abysmal thirty percent of neighboring Rome, Italy.

Things were understandably gloomier for the Greek capital on issues such as household economic health, with only one out of three Athenians being satisfied with the money they make. Meanwhile, ninety percent of the population in Stockholm, Sweden said they were satisfied with their economic situation.

Similar low percentages are recorded on the issue of the cleanliness of public spaces in Southern Europe, with Athens scoring only 30 percent. In Rome less than one out of ten people described their city as clean.

Cities in Portugal, Spain, Italy and Greece continued to rank low among European cities on the ease of finding a job. The European south has historically lagged behind northern Europe, with chronically high rates of joblessness.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: A.Savin License: CC-BY-SASeries of initiatives promoting the switch to Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and to electric power for the transport sector

Minister of Environment and Energy Giorgos Stathakis, addressing a conference organized by the National Committee for Energy and Climate, announced on Thursday a series of initiatives promoting the switch to Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and to electric power for the transport sector, ANA reports.

He then presented the main aspects of the Greek National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP), which is currently under public consultation. These are:

- A target to save energy by a yearly improvement rate of at least 1.5 pct

- A long-term reconfiguration of the energy mixture, to include more RES and less lignite

- Measures against energy poverty.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Mstyslav Chernov License: CC-BY-SAGFH Properties, the real estate arm of Bahrain-based GFH Financial Group, said it has signed a strategic partnership agreement with BBK to provide mortgage financing services for its Harbour Row project.

A new residential and commercial destination in the heart of capital city Manama, Harbour Row is located on the waterfront of the iconic Bahrain Financial Harbour.

As a new destination in the heart of Bahrains capital city, The Harbour Row will bring world-class amenities, prestigious lifestyle brands and global citizens together in a vibrant new downtown development.

With design influences from New York to Dubai, the vision behind the creation of The Harbour Row has always been to build one of the worlds great waterside developments, said the developer.

Aiming to provide a global destination that combines the best of business and leisure, it stated.

It is set directly in front of GFH Properties previously developed and internationally renowned project, Bahrain Financial Harbour.



The partnership agreement was signed by Haitham Fekry, the managing director of Real Estate and Mohammed Malik, the deputy chief executive at BBK in the presence of senior officials.



"Aiming to provide a global destination that offers the best of modern living, The Harbour Row provides world class residences for people with the desire to live an urban lifestyle, but who cant imagine life without the simple pleasure only a stroll along a quayside in the mid afternoon sun can bring," the officials said.-TraderArabia News ServiceAl Madina Logistics Duqm Company, a leading Omani logistics services provider, and Duqm Port Company recently signed a land investment agreement at the Logistics Complex of Duqm Port in Oman's Al Wusta Governorate, said a report.



The agreement includes lease and investment of logistics land with future expansions in the logistics complex located near the Port of Duqm, where an integrated logistics centre will be established to manage logistics operations in Duqm, added the Oman Daily Observer report.



The agreement was signed at the headquarters of Sezad in Muscat. The agreement was signed by Mahmood bin Sakhi al Balushi, chief executive officer of Al Madina Logistics Duqm; and Reggy Vermeulen, chief executive officer of Duqm Port, in the presence of a number of board members and the executive team, it said.



The signing was held under the auspices of Yahya bin Saeed al Jabri, chairman of the Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm (Sezad) and was attended by Major-General (Retd) Hassan Ihsan al Naseeb, chairman of Al Madina Logistics Duqm Company and a number of officials.



The first phase of the project includes construction of a main office building with offices for management, freight services inclusive of air, land and sea, specialised project logistics for the oil and gas sector, customs clearance as well as open yard storage for large structures and a container yard.



The second phase of the project includes the establishment of an integrated distribution centre for management of supply chain and distribution with storage zones at different temperatures and highest quality standards, added the report.Bahrain-based TechoSmart for IT Services, a professional ICT services and solutions provider, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Fame Technology to explore deeper co-operation in the kingdom.



The wide-ranging deal covers scope to delivering ICT solutions in the country, as well as to promote new and enhanced technologies in Bahrains market, enabling the companies with the needed technologies to enhance their daily operations and monitor their success, said a statement.



This agreement represents a model of cooperation and integration between ICT companies in Bahrain, which will contribute to enhancing the great potential that the kingdom possesses in this field such as qualified cadres, advanced legislative structure and proximity to the Saudi market that accords $53 billion in the ICT industry, it said.



Mohammed Al Hujairi, general manager of TechoSmart, said: TechoSmart being a sub company under Gulf Future Business (GFB Holdings) has been providing ICT consultancy and services for more than 15 Years.



Providing cloud services and technology development targeting specific vertical in the region, he said.



Our company has been doing a lot of market research concerning enablement of SMEs and enterprises in Bahrain and GCC, the right technology and training are the number one factor of organisations uplifting their services and being more productive. Jointly with Fame we seek to do so, he added.



Dr Ranjit M K, chief executive officer, Fame Technology, said: Through this partnership, our company will further enhance capabilities to provide innovative solutions to business development challenges.



Delivering advanced and integrated ICT solutions aimed at cutting operating costs while increasing revenues by increasing productivity, introducing technology into business and establishing a sustainable information infrastructure for various public and private sector institutions, he said.



We have a large team of in-house developers in the kingdom. We have seen lots of potential in Bahrains market in terms of utilising technology is a key object for the day to day operations and communication, he added.  TradeArabia News ServiceMindshare, a global media agency, has announced an agreement with Ikea for its flagship Middle East store in Bahrain.

The media partnership strengthens the Mindshare  Ikea global partnership, a statement said. Ikea Bahrain is the biggest Ikea in the region.

Omar Mugharbel, chief brand officer of Ikea, said: We are excited about our new partnership with Mindshare, we believe that together we will be reaching out to the many people of Bahrain in an engaging and creative way.

As Ikeas media partner, Mindshare will be focusing on initiating excitement for this already well-known brand and driving footfall and ensuring the Ikea experience is brought to life across all mainstream media and consumers continue to make Ikea their first choice for their home furnishing needs, said Mindshare.

Vikram, deputy managing director at Mindshare Bahrain, said: We are excited to add Ikea Bahrain to our client portfolio, as it not only does further strengthen Mindshares No. 1 position in the Bahrain market but also as brands we share very similar values about teamwork and striving for innovation.

Mindshare was born in Asia in 1997 as a startup with a desire to change the media world. Mindshare today is a global agency with 116 offices in 86 countries and billings of $35 billion. It is part of GroupM, the media investment management arm of WPP, the worlds leading communications services group. - TradeArabia News ServiceAlgerian govt arrests 20 illegal immigrants

Algiers, Dec 2 (UNI) The Algerian Ministry of Defence announced on Sunday that it has arrested 20 illegal immigrants in two different regions of the country.

The ministry said in a statement here that the army forces arrested 20 illegal immigrants of different nationalities in the states of Bordj Badji Mokhtar border with Mali and Ain Temouchent, north of the country.

On the other hand, the statement pointed out that a "terrorist" handed himself to the military authorities in Tamanrasset city, far south of the country, possessing weapons and ammunition.Allowing US humanitarian work in North Korea may revive Nuclear Talks - S Korean Official

MOSCOW, Dec 3 (Sputnik) - The stalled denuclearisation talks between the United States and Pyongyang could be revived if US humanitarian businesses are allowed to operate in North Korea, Moon Chung-in, a special South Korean presidential adviser for unification, foreign and security affairs, said on Monday.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in has said earlier that it was possible to reward Pyongyang's denuclearisation efforts without sanctions relief.

"Many American citizens wish to conduct humanitarian businesses in North Korea, but cannot due to government restrictions. Relieving those restrictions could send a fairly positive message to North Korea," the adviser said as quoted by Yonhap News Agency.Chinese FM sends condolences message to Ugandan counterpart on boat accident

BEIJING, Dec 3 (Xinhua) Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi has sent a message of condolences to Uganda's Foreign Minister Sam Kutesa on a recent shipwreck accident which caused severe casualties.

In the message dated on Nov 30, Wang said he is shocked to learn about the accident. He expressed sadness for the loss of life and conveyed his deep condolences to the families of the victims as well as the injured and the foreign minister himself.

An overloaded boat reportedly carried 120 people capsized on Lake Victoria in Uganda last month. Statistics from the country's search and rescue team show that 32 bodies were retrieved.Naveen extends financial assistance to a student to take admission in NIT Warangal 26 Nov 2021 | 4:32 PM Bhubaneswar, Nov 26 (UNI) Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today extended financial

assistance to a student of Bolangir to fulfill his dream of becoming an Engineer. see more..

Bodies of four students drown in Mahanadi river recover by fire brigade personnel 26 Nov 2021 | 4:22 PM Bhubaneswar, Nov 26 (UNI) The Fire Brigade personnel have recovered the bodies of all

the four students who were swept away and drowned in the river Mahanadi. see more..

Security in Indian border solid, govt policies reaching people: Nadda 26 Nov 2021 | 3:50 PM Imphal, Nov 26 (UNI) BJP National president JP Nadda today said that

India has become a strong nation, its border well protected and

government policies reaching every individual. see more..

Three motorcyclists die after their two-wheeler hits a roadside three in S 24 Parganas 26 Nov 2021 | 2:43 PM Kolkata, Nov 26 (UNI) Three motorcyclists were killed when their

two-wheeler on a high speed hit a roadside tree while turning home

from a market in South 24 Parganas on Thursday night, police said today. see more..Mongolian opposition party expels lawmaker for cross-voting in parliament vote

ULAN BATOR, Dec 3 (Xinhua) Mongolia's opposition Democratic Party (DP) has expelled lawmaker Jalbasuren Batzandan for cross-voting in a parliamentary no-confidence motion against the state government, the party said Monday.

"The DP has expelled Batzandan for four years as he defied the party whip and cross-voted," the party said in a statement.

Other two lawmakers, namely Luvsanvandan Bold and Dakyei Murat, have been banned for four years to compete in elections for the same reason.Gender-based violence:Actress Danai Gurira joins fight

United Nations, Dec 3 (UNI) Actress and Activist Danai Gurira, one of the stars of hit movies 'Black Panther' and 'Avengers: Infinity War,' in her role as General Okoye, has been named a Goodwill Ambassador for UN Women, for dedicating her support to gender equality and womens rights.

UN Women is delighted to welcome Danai Gurira in her new role as Goodwill Ambassador to support our work on gender equality, said Under-Secretary-General and UN Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, adding as an author, playwright, actor and activist in pursuit of womens empowerment and gender equality with her sharp human rights lens, she is uniquely qualified to communicate and inspire.

The UN Women chief described Ms Gurira as an influential role model in both her personal and professional lives, and said that she is looking forward to her driving action on gender equality in communities across the world.

I am honoured to join the UN Women family, said Ms Gurira. My passion for women and girls has been my focus in the narratives I create as well as the roles I have been able to play. I have always sought to push the boundaries and tell the stories of those, who are often marginalised and unheard. I am delighted to partner with UN Women to amplify many more stories from around the world, and give a voice to those, who are working relentlessly to make gender equality a reality.

On Sunday, Ms Gurira was introduced as the newest UN Women Goodwill Ambassador at the Global Citizen Festival Mandela 100 in Johannesburg, South Africa, where she and Ms Mlambo-Ngcuka will also engage with over 200 young women leaders at the African Leadership Academy, discussing their challenges and experiences within academia and the work force, and in ending violence against women.

The announcement of Ms Guriras new role comes during UN Womens 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence advocacy campaign, which seeks to broaden the global conversation and highlight the voices and activism of all survivors of violence and advocates around the world, many of whom are often missing from the media headlines and social media discussions.

UNI XC RSU 0831Russian Ambassador Lauds Sides in Yemeni Conflict for Agreeing to Partake in Sweden Talks

MOSCOW, Dec 3 (Sputnik) Russian Ambassador to Yemen Vladimir Dedushkin on Monday commended the parties to Yemeni conflict for agreeing to take part in the upcoming peace talks in Sweden.

"It is gratifying that both parties to the conflict confirmed their readiness to arrive in Sweden at the set time and take part in the negotiation process. [UN] Special Envoy [Martin Griffiths] has managed to organize preparatory events," Dedushkin told reporters.

The ambassador noted that the meeting will "approximately" take place on December 5-14 and will be held near the town of Uppsala, which is not far from Stockholm.S. Korean Ambassador Says Hopes Parliament to Endorse Initiative for FTA With Russia Soon

MOSCOW, Dec 3 (Sputnik) South Korean Ambassador to Russia Woo Yoon-keun expressed hope on Monday that the country's parliament would soon endorse the initiative to sign a free trade agreement with Russia in order to launch negotiations with Moscow in early 2019.

"We, in our country, are completing discussions on signing a free trade agreement in the areas of investments and services. We expect that our parliament will soon endorse such a project so that we could discuss signing such an agreement with the Russian side early next year," Woo told reporters.

Relations between South Korea and Russia have developed significantly since South Korean President Moon Jae-in took office last year, Woo added.51 rare Royal Turtles freed into natural habitat in SW Cambodia: Conservationist group 26 Nov 2021 | 5:10 PM Phnom Penh, Nov 26 (UNI/Xinhua) Fifty-one of Cambodia's nearly-extinct Royal Turtles were released on Friday into their natural habitat in the Sre Ambel River in southwestern Preah Sihanouk province, a conservationist group said in a press release. see more..

Russia, India, China summit demonstrates genuine multilateral relations: Wang Yi 26 Nov 2021 | 5:09 PM Beijing, Nov 26 (UNI/Sputnik) The RIC Grouping (Russia, India, China) demonstrates genuine multilateralism in relations to the world, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Friday. see more..

Malaysia's inflation rate rises 2 9pc in Oct due to rising fuel, utilities prices 26 Nov 2021 | 5:08 PM Kuala Lumpur, Nov 26 (UNI/Xinhua) Malaysia's inflation rate, as measured by Consumer Price Index (CPI), rose 2.9 percent in October 2021 from a year earlier due to rising fuel and utilities prices, official data showed Friday. see more..

Japanese government will press ahead with relocation of US airbase in Okinawa 26 Nov 2021 | 5:07 PM Tokyo, Nov 26 (UNI/Sputnik) The Japanese government will not change its plans to relocate the United States Marine Corps Air Station Futenma (MCAS Futenma) in Okinawa, as the current location poses a threat to the base, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said on Friday. see more..Moscow, Dec 3 (UNI) The US military carried out an airstrike against al-Shabaab militants in Somalia killing nine terrorists, US Africa Command (AFRICOM) said in a statement.

"To support the Federal Government of Somalias continued efforts to degrade al-Shabaab, US forces conducted an airstrike targeting al-Shabaab militants near Lebede, Somalia on November 30, 2018. We currently assess this airstrike killed nine militants with no civilians involved," the statement said.

AFRICOM added that the US forces would continue to use 'all effective and appropriate methods' to protect the Somali people, by conducting joint counter-terror operations with the Somali government, Africa Union Mission in Somalia and Somali National Army forces.

UNI XC RSU 0854Yemeni Government, Houthis will not have direct talks in Sweden - official

MOSCOW, Dec 3 (Sputnik) The delegations of the Yemeni government and of the Houthi movement will hold "individual" consultations at the peace talks in Sweden rather than direct negotiations, and will focus on "building confidence," Mukhtar Rahbi, an adviser to the Yemeni minister of information, told Sputnik.

"The consultations will be individual. [The government and the Houthis] are not going to meet at one negotiating table, and the consultations will concentrate on building confidence," Rahbi said.

Rahbi added that he expected the consultations to be on schedule, "if there is no emergency or obstruction by the Houthis."UW in the News

State, national and international media frequently feature the University of Wyoming and members of its community in stories. Here is a summary of some of the recent articles:

UW Assistant Professor Linda Thunstroms study was cited in a Bloomberg article, titled Does Prayer Help Disaster Victims? Her mixed reaction findings indicate that thoughts do not affect what people do in response to disasters and tragedies, but prayers make pro-social action less likely.

Sheridan Media published UWs release noting that UW researchers and their colleagues have developed a computer model that has demonstrated remarkable accuracy and efficiency in identifying images of wild animals from camera-trap photographs in North America. International Society of Bionic Engineering, Science, Technology and Research News, Science Daily and Engineering and Technology Magazine also published UWs release.

UW economist Jason Shogren told The Casper Star-Tribune that climate change will most directly affect the states energy industry, and state leaders must face that reality. Shogren was commenting on how the Fourth National Climate Assessment, required every four years by Congress, will affect Wyoming.

The Archery Wire interviewed Matt Kauffman and Greg Nickerson with the Wyoming Migration Initiative at UW about their research on ungulate migrations and their new Wild Migrations atlas. goHUNT and Around the O published a similar article.

UW Professors Anne Guzzo and Jeff Lockwood were interviewed by Science News to discuss how locust ecology inspired their original music piece Locust: The Opera.

The Jackson Hole News and Guide interviewed UW Professor Jim King about political candidates spending. He said the general leaning of the constituency is more important than what the candidate spends. King also told The Jackson Hole News and Guide that gender bias does play a role when male and female candidates square off in an election.

The Laramie Boomerang reported that implementing a law to create a common college transcript system for UW and the states community colleges will cost $1.5 million in initial funding, according to a Joint Education Committee report.

Bethann Garramon Merkle, a UW associate research scientist, was interviewed by Wyoming Public Radio about her research paper that details how poetry can be used in the classroom to better understand science.

Sheridan Media published UWs release announcing a three-year, $306,000 federal suicide prevention grant. Among other UW releases published include: UW geology Professor Mike Cheadles oceanic crust international research and a groundbreaking ceremony for UWs Science Initiative facility.

UW College of Engineering and Applied Science Dean Michael Pishko told the Legislatures Minerals, Business and Economic Development Committee that UW is on track in meeting Tier-1 Initiative goals, reported The Boomerang.

Wyoming Public Radio reported that College of Education Dean Ray Reutzel recently updated the Legislatures Joint Education Committee on UWs efforts to better prepare teachers for the states classrooms.The Nandao Island of Xisha Xuande Islands. [Photo by Guo Cheng/Xinhua]

Chinese military monitored a US warship that entered Chinese territorial waters without permission and warned it to leave on Monday, a spokesman said on Friday.

Navy and Air Force of the People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command will continue to watch closely Chinese waters and air to prevent any incident that may harm China's national security and to safeguard national sovereignty, senior colonel Li Huamin, spokesman of the command, said in a statement.

On Monday, USS Chancellorsville entered the territorial waters off the Xisha Islands in the South China Sea without China's permission. The command, according to relevant laws and regulations, deployed air and navy forces to monitor and verify the ship, and warned it to leave, he said.

The United States should better manage its ships and aircraft to prevent unexpected events, the spokesman said.

The PLA has five theater commands, and the Southern Theater Command oversees military personnel and hardware in six southern provincial-level regions: Guangdong, Hunan, Hainan, Yunnan and Guizhou provinces and the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region. It also operates the PLA South Sea Fleet, which is responsible for maintaining peace and security in the South China Sea.A US spy plane photographed during a reconnaissance near the Strait of Kertch

The international media has not presented us with an accurate picture of what went down in the Strait of Kertch. The media has been trying to make us think that it was an act by Russia to limit international maritime traffic. In my opinion, this incident can have serious military consequences for Russia and could lead to the loss of Crimea.

The ground troops do not always have enough information on the enemy and therefore turn to a process known as reconnaissance to gather more information. For example, a reconnaissance group, which moves about in very mobile vehicles, engages in combat against the enemy for a few minutes. Then, if it is not captured, the group withdraws ever so quickly.

At the time of the incident that occurred on 25 November 2018 in the Strait of Kertch, two small Ukrainian armed battleships (Berdyansk and Nikopol), class Gyurza-M, executed a reconnaissance mission. Their aim was not to cross the Kertch Strait but to kick off a reaction of the Russian combat set up, tasked with defending a bridge, running above the strait. The two ships were ideally suited for this type of mission. This is because they are the fastest and far easier to manuvre than the very well armed ships belonging to the Coast Guard and Navy.

This is the visible part of the incident. There was another aspect, which in contrast, was invisible, and yet far more important than the media made it out to be.

In fact, the information the fruit of the reconnaissance operation was not collected by the reconnaissance group that is in contact with the enemy, which in this case is, the small ships (Berdyansk and Nikopol) belonging to the Ukrainian military navy. The information was gathered by another reconnaissance structure which acts in secret. This secretive structure, is specialised in putting in place for surveillance the enemy reaction (that is, the defence set up of the Russian bridge and the Strait of Kertch) thanks to points of land observations, air resources, naval resources, systems for intercepting radio frequency emissions, radar/infrared detection systems, etc. The Ukrainian army has not deployed as complex a reconnaissance set up near the Strait of Kertch, because it does not have the resources to do so. But as we have already demonstrated in a previous article published a little while before the incident, the United States and Israel have become very active in the region.

5 November 2018: a Su-27 Russian plane intercepted a US plane ELINT EP-3E, series 157316, indicator AS17. This Russian plane had taken off from the base of Souda on the island of Crete, flying close to Crimeas territorial waters. On 19 November, an Israeli reconnaissance plane Gulfstream G-550 Nachshon Aitam (indicator of flight 537) flew over the Black Sea around the Strait of Kertch.

The incident that took place in the Strait of Kertch was closely observed for an entire day by US reconnaissance planes, SIGINT. One of them, type RC-135V, series 64-14841, indicator JONAS 21, based in the Souda Bay, on the island of Crete, flew over the coast looking onto the Black Sea, near Crimea. A second US aircraft, a drone of high altitude, type RQ-4B, series 11-2047, indicator FORTE10, flew to the east of Ukraine near the Azov Sea. This drone, the RQ-4B. is controlled from the US naval base at Sigonella, which is located on the island of Sicily.

On 27 November another reconnaissance plane P-8A, series 168859, executed a reconnaissance flight in the Strait of Kerch and Crimea from the base at Sigonella.

Signals intelligence (SIG-INT) is a system of surveillance that includes the interception of the following:

 Communications Intelligence (also known as COM-INT): radio, mobile phone, channels of data transmission and Internet;

 Electronic intelligence (also known as EL-INT): radar signals and other devices for navigation, detection or disturbance: infrared, laser, etc.

Thanks to these devices, which are fitted in the reconnaissance planes, the incident sparked off by the Ukrainian planes in the Strait of Kertch has enabled the US to have a detailed grasp of the following:

 Composition and location of the Russian land and maritime set up destined to protect the strait.

 Management structure of the situation and the radio frequencies used

 Stages of the procedure for intervention

 Responsibilities of the different Russian air, land and naval sub-units, under the Cooperation Plan.

 Sectors that are badly defended or vulnerable.

Thus, whilst the small Ukrainian boats and their crews have been arrested by the Russian forces, they have done what they were supposed to do. A mission that could only have come from the United States.Building Consensus for Fair and Sustainable Development

1. Ten years since the first G20 Leaders Summit we met in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 30 November- 1 December 2018 to build consensus for fair and sustainable development through an agenda that is people-centred, inclusive and forward-looking.

2. This year we have focused on the following pillars: the future of work, infrastructure for development, a sustainable food future and a gender mainstreaming strategy across the G20 agenda.

3. We have addressed our agenda promoting dialogue and the search for common ground. Building consensus requires the commitment of the society as a whole. Our discussions have been enriched by our engagement with stakeholder communities.

4. We welcome the strong global economic growth while recognizing it has been increasingly less synchronized between countries and some of the key risks, including financial vulnerabilities and geopolitical concerns, have partially materialized. We also note current trade issues. We reaffirm our pledge to use all policy tools to achieve strong, sustainable, balanced and inclusive growth, and safeguard against downside risks, by stepping up our dialogue and actions to enhance confidence. Monetary policy will continue to support economic activity and ensure price stability, consistent with central banks mandates. Fiscal policy should rebuild buffers where needed, be used flexibly and be growth-friendly, while ensuring public debt is on a sustainable path. Continued implementation of structural reforms will enhance our growth potential. We reaffirm the exchange rate commitments made by the Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors last March. We endorse the Buenos Aires Action Plan.

5. We renew our commitment to work together to improve a rules-based international order that is capable of effectively responding to a rapidly changing world.

6. Transformative technologies are expected to bring immense economic opportunities, including new and better jobs, and higher living standards. The transition, however, will create challenges for individuals, businesses and governments. Policy responses and international cooperation will help ensure that the benefits of the technological transformation are widely shared. We endorse the Menu of Policy Options for the Future of Work which we will draw on, considering individual country circumstances, to: harness technology to strengthen growth and productivity; support people during transitions and address distributional challenges; secure sustainable tax systems; and ensure that the best possible evidence informs our decision-making.

7. We remain committed to building an inclusive, fair and sustainable Future of Work by promoting decent work, vocational training and skills development, including reskilling workers and improving labour conditions in all forms of employment, recognizing the importance of social dialogue in this area, including work delivered through digital platforms, with a focus on promoting labour formalization and making social protection systems strong and portable, subject to national law and circumstances. We will continue to foster cognitive, digital and entrepreneurship skills, and encourage the collection and exchange of good practices. We will promote increasing labour force participation of underrepresented as well as vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities. We will implement policies to improve the employment situation of young people, consistent with the G20 Antalya Youth Goal. We will take actions to eradicate child labour, forced labour, human trafficking and modern slavery in the world of work, including through fostering sustainable supply chains. We will endeavor to further create enabling conditions for resource mobilization from public, private and multilateral resources, including innovative financial mechanisms and partnerships, such as impact investment for inclusive and sustainable growth, in line with the G20 Call on Financing for Inclusive Business.

8. Access to education is a human right and a strategic public policy area for the development of more inclusive, prosperous, and peaceful societies. We underline the importance of girls education. To equip our citizens to reap the benefits of societal and technological innovations we will promote coordination between employment and equitable quality education policies, so we can develop comprehensive strategies that promote key competences such as learning to learn, foundation and digital skills, in a lifelong learning perspective from early childhood. We acknowledge the need to foster evidence-based innovative pedagogies and methods for all levels of education.

9. To maximize the benefits of digitalization and emerging technologies for innovative growth and productivity, we will promote measures to boost micro, small and medium enterprises and entrepreneurs, bridge the digital gender divide and further digital inclusion, support consumer protection, and improve digital government, digital infrastructure and measurement of the digital economy. We reaffirm the importance of addressing issues of security in the use of ICTs. We support the free flow of information, ideas and knowledge, while respecting applicable legal frameworks, and working to build consumer trust, privacy, data protection and intellectual property rights protection. We welcome the G20 Repository of Digital Policies to share and promote the adoption of innovative digital economy business models. We recognize the importance of the interface between trade and the digital economy. We will continue our work on artificial intelligence, emerging technologies and new business platforms.

10. Infrastructure is a key driver of economic prosperity, sustainable development and inclusive growth. To address the persistent infrastructure financing gap, we reaffirm our commitment to attract more private capital to infrastructure investment. To achieve this, we endorse the Roadmap to Infrastructure as an Asset Class and the G20 Principles for the Infrastructure Project Preparation Phase. We are taking actions to achieve greater contractual standardization, address data gaps and improve risk mitigation instruments. In line with the Roadmap, we look forward to progress in 2019 on quality infrastructure.

11. Building on the G20 Food Security and Nutrition Framework, we reaffirm our commitment to tackling the challenges of food security, which is crucial to achieving a world free of hunger and all forms of malnutrition. We will promote dynamism in rural areas and sustainable agriculture, conscious of the importance of sustainable soil, water and riverbanks management supported by individual countries voluntarily, taking into consideration the specific needs of family and small-holder farmers. We encourage the voluntary use and sharing of innovative as well as traditional agricultural practices and technologies. We highlight the importance of collaboration among public and private stakeholders to strengthen risk management, facilitate adaptation to a changing environment, protect biodiversity and provide effective responses to reduce the impacts of extreme weather on agriculture. We will increase efforts to engage with the private sector, the scientific community and all other relevant stakeholders to enhance value addition, productivity, efficiency, sustainability and upgrading in Agro-Food Global Value Chains and encourage initiatives to reduce food loss and waste.

12. Gender equality is crucial for economic growth and fair and sustainable development. We are making progress in achieving our Brisbane commitment to reduce the gender gap in labour force participation rates by 25% by 2025 but affirm that more needs to be done. We will continue to promote initiatives aimed at ending all forms of discrimination against women and girls and gender- based violence. We commit to promoting womens economic empowerment, including by working with the private sector, to improve labour conditions for all, such as through access to quality and affordable care infrastructure and parental leave, and reducing the gender pay gap. We also commit to promote womens access to leadership and decision-making positions, the development of women and girls digital skills and increasing their participation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and high-tech sectors. We welcome the continued implementation of the Women Entrepreneurs Financing Initiative (We-Fi), and we thank the Business Women Leaders Taskforce for its work. Drawing from this experience, we will consider how to better engage with women entrepreneurs.

13. Mobilizing sustainable finance and strengthening financial inclusion are important for global growth. We welcome the Sustainable Finance Synthesis Report 2018, which presents voluntary options to support deployment of sustainable private capital. We endorse the G20 Financial Inclusion Policy Guide, which provides voluntary policy recommendations to facilitate digital financial services, taking into account country contexts and the Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion Roadmap which outlines a process to streamline its work program and structure.

14. We launch the G20 Initiative for Early Childhood Development and stand ready to join all stakeholders in enhancing quality and sustainably financed early childhood programs that consider as means of building human capital to break the cycle of intergenerational and structural poverty, and of reducing inequalities, specially where young children are most vulnerable.

15. We encourage the activities of World Health Organization (WHO), together with all relevant actors, to develop an action plan for implementation of health-related aspects of SDGs by 2030. We commend the progress made by the international community in developing and implementing National and Regional Action Plans on Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) based on One-Health approach. We recognize the need for further multi-sectoral action to reduce the spread of AMR, as it is increasingly becoming a global responsibility. We note the work done by the Global AMR R&D Hub and, drawing on this, we look forward to further examine practical market incentives. We will tackle malnutrition, with a special focus on childhood overweight and obesity, through national, community-based and collaborative multi-stakeholder approaches. We reaffirm the need for stronger health systems providing cost effective and evidence-based intervention to achieve better access to health care and to improve its quality and affordability to move towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC), in line with their national contexts and priorities. This may encompass, where appropriate, scientifically proven traditional and complementary medicine, assuring the safety, quality and effectiveness of health services. We will continue to strengthen core capacities required by International Health Regulations (IHR, 2005) for prevention, detection and response to public health emergencies, while recognizing the critical role played by WHO in this regard. We are committed to ending HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, and look forward to a successful 6 replenishment of the Global Fund in 2019.

16. We note the 2018 G20 Annual International Migration and Displacement Trends and Policies Report prepared by the OECD in cooperation with ILO, IOM and UNHCR. We will consider how to continue the dialogue on these issues under the next presidency.

17. Large movements of refugees are a global concern with humanitarian, political, social and economic consequences. We emphasize the importance of shared actions to address the root causes of displacement and to respond to growing humanitarian needs.

18. We reaffirm our commitment to leading the transformation towards sustainable development and support the 2030 Agenda as the framework for advancing this goal and the G20 Action Plan. The Buenos Aires Update outlines the G20 current collective and concrete actions towards achieving that Agenda, recognizing that South-South and triangular cooperation have an important role to implement it. We underline our continued support to the G20 Africa Partnership, including the Compact with Africa, and other relevant initiatives. We reaffirm our commitment to addressing illicit financial flows that have a detrimental effect on domestic resources mobilization and will continue to take stock of progress. We endorse the G20 High Level Principles on Sustainable Habitat through Regional Planning.

19. A strong economy and a healthy planet are mutually reinforcing. We note the latest IPCC Special Report on the Impacts of Global Warming of 1.5 degrees centigrade. We recognize the importance of comprehensive adaptation strategies, including investment in infrastructure that is resilient to extreme weather events and disasters. In this sense, we support actions and cooperation in developing countries, especially those that are particularly vulnerable, including small island states such as those in the Caribbean. We discussed long-term low greenhouse gas emission development strategies and alignment of international finance flows. We also shared countries experiences and considered the 2018-2019 work program on adaptation, acknowledging that each country may chart its own path to achieving a low emission future. We look forward to successful outcomes of the UNFCCC COP24, and to engage in the Talanoa Dialogue.

20. Signatories to the Paris Agreement, who have also joined the Hamburg Action Plan, reaffirm that the Paris Agreement is irreversible and commit to its full implementation, reflecting common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in light of different national circumstances. We will continue to tackle climate change, while promoting sustainable development and economic growth.

21. The United States reiterates its decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, and affirms its strong commitment to economic growth and energy access and security, utilizing all energy sources and technologies, while protecting the environment.

22. We recognize the crucial role of energy in helping shape our shared future and we encourage energy transitions that combine growth with decreasing greenhouse gas emissions towards cleaner, more flexible and transparent systems, and cooperation in energy efficiency. We recognize the opportunities for innovation, growth, and job creation through increased investment into cleaner and sustainable energy sources -including renewables-, technologies and infrastructure. We acknowledge the role of all energy sources and technologies in the energy mix and different possible national paths to achieve cleaner energy systems under the term transitions. We will promote energy security, sustainability, resilience, efficiency, affordability and stability, acknowledging that there are varied sources of energy and technological advances to achieve a low emissions future. We continue to promote universal energy access by eradicating energy poverty, cooperating to provide displaced people and disaster-impacted and remote areas with access to it, and through enhanced implementation of G20 regional plans.

23. Strong and effective international financial institutions help underpin growth and sustainable development. We reaffirm our commitment to further strengthening the global financial safety net with a strong, quota-based, and adequately resourced IMF at its centre. We are committed to concluding the 15th General Review of Quotas including a new quota formula by the Spring Meetings and no later than the Annual Meetings of 2019. We call on the IMF and World Bank to work with borrowers and creditors to improve the recording, monitoring and transparent reporting of public and private debt obligations. We look forward to the IMF review of programme conditionality and the review of its debt limits policy.

24. We will continue to monitor cross border capital flows and deepen our understanding of the available tools, so we can harness their benefits while also managing the risks and enhancing resilience. We will continue to take steps to address debt vulnerabilities in low income countries by supporting capacity building in public debt and financial management, and strengthening domestic policy frameworks. We will work towards enhancing debt transparency and sustainability, and improving sustainable financing practices by borrowers and creditors, both official and private, including infrastructure financing. We support ongoing work by the IMF, WBG and Paris Club on LICs debt and the continued efforts of the Paris Club towards the broader inclusion of emerging creditors. We welcome the final report of the G20 Eminent Persons Group on Global Financial Governance.

25. An open and resilient financial system, grounded in agreed international standards, is crucial to support sustainable growth. We remain committed to the full, timely and consistent implementation and finalization of the agreed financial reform agenda, and the evaluation of its effects. We will continue to monitor and, if necessary, tackle emerging risks and vulnerabilities in the financial system; and, through continued regulatory and supervisory cooperation, address fragmentation. We look forward to continued progress on achieving resilient non-bank financial intermediation. We will step up efforts to ensure that the potential benefits of technology in the financial sector can be realized while risks are mitigated. We will regulate crypto-assets for anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism in line with FATF standards and we will consider other responses as needed. We thank Mr. Mark Carney for his service as FSB Chair and we welcome the appointment of Mr. Randal K Quarles, as Chair of the FSB and of Mr. Klaas Knot, as Vice Chair.

26. We will continue our work for a globally fair, sustainable, and modern international tax system based, in particular on tax treaties and transfer pricing rules, and welcome international cooperation to advance pro-growth tax policies. Worldwide implementation of the OECD/G20 Base Erosion and Profit Shifting package remains essential. We will continue to work together to seek a consensus- based solution to address the impacts of the digitalization of the economy on the international tax system with an update in 2019 and a final report by 2020. We welcome the commencement of the automatic exchange of financial account information and acknowledge the strengthened criteria developed by the OECD to identify jurisdictions that have not satisfactorily implemented the tax transparency standards. Defensive measures will be considered against listed jurisdictions. All jurisdictions should sign and ratify the multilateral Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters. We continue to support enhanced tax certainty and tax capacity building in developing countries, including through the Platform for Collaboration on Tax.

27. International trade and investment are important engines of growth, productivity, innovation, job creation and development. We recognize the contribution that the multilateral trading system has made to that end. The system is currently falling short of its objectives and there is room for improvement. We therefore support the necessary reform of the WTO to improve its functioning. We will review progress at our next Summit.

28. Recalling our commitments from Hangzhou and Hamburg, we welcome the concrete policy solutions developed by the Global Forum on Steel Excess Capacity (GFSEC), facilitated by the OECD. We call on all members to implement the Berlin and Paris GFSEC Ministerial recommendations and commitments. We look forward to a substantive report by June 2019.

29. We remain committed to prevent and fight corruption and lead by example. We agree on the new action plan 2019-2021 and endorse Principles on Preventing Corruption and Ensuring Integrity in State-Owned Enterprises and on Preventing and Managing Conflicts of Interest in the Public Sector. These will foster transparency and integrity in the public and private sectors. We will continue practical cooperation to fight corruption including in line with our G20 commitments. We will further explore the links between corruption and other economic crimes and ways to tackle them, including through cooperation on the return of persons sought for such offences and stolen assets, consistent with international obligations and domestic legal systems. We ask relevant international organizations to report back to us on those issues during the next presidency. We call for the effective implementation by all G20 countries of the UN Convention Against Corruption, including the criminalization of the bribery of foreign public officials, and note the work towards possible adherence to the OECD Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials in International Business Transactions.

30. We reaffirm our strong condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We commit to the full implementation of The Hamburg G20 Leaders Statement on Countering Terrorism. We will step up our efforts in fighting terrorist and proliferation financing, and money laundering. We urge the digital industry to work together to fight exploitation of the internet and social media for terrorist purposes.

31. We thank Argentina for its G20 Presidency and for hosting the successful Buenos Aires Summit and we look forward to our next meetings in Japan in 2019 and in Saudi Arabia in 2020.Legislation in the Fight Against Terrorism and Cross Border Crime

The Minister for Health, Care and Justice, the Honourable Neil F. Costa MP has published legislation implementing 3 European Council Decisions, which seek to intensify cross-border cooperation between Member States, particularly in combating terrorism and cross-border crime.

These European Council Decisions are commonly referred to as the Prum Decisions, as they adopted some of the 2005 Prum Convention measures into EU Law. The first two of these decisions are:

- Council Decision 2008/615/JHA (on the stepping up of cross-border cooperation, particularly in combating terrorism and cross-border crime), and

- Council Decision 2008/616/JHA (on the implementation of the above measures on stepping up of cross-border cooperation regarding terrorism and cross-border crime).

The enhanced cross-border cooperation measures are achieved through specialised equipment that facilitates the remote automated and digital sharing of fingerprints, DNA data and vehicle data. Since May 2016, the UK has been involved in trials with some EU Member States in order to set up the required IT infrastructure. Gibraltar has also, for some time now, been taking the necessary steps to connect via the United Kingdom in order to participate in this testing process.

Further and importantly, the third Council Framework Decision 2009/905/JHA sets the level of accreditation required for the provision of DNA profiles and fingerprints, when relying on these cross-border measures.

Commenting on the publication of the new legislation, the Minister for Health, Care and Justice, the Honourable Neil F. Costa MP stated: These legal measures are vital in the fight against terrorism and cross-border crime. The exchange of data and police cooperation, generally,in the fight against crime cannot be underestimated, and I am sure our community will be all the safer for it. I would like to thank our excellent Government lawyers for their hard work in ensuring that this legislative architecture is now in place.MOSCOW, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- The presidents of Russia and Turkey agreed on further steps to implement the agreement over a demilitarized zone in Syria's Idlib province, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Sunday.

According to the ministry, Lavrov said that, during their meeting in Argentina, the leaders agreed on further steps to honor the agreement on the creation of a demilitarized zone while taking measures to prevent the extremists from sabotaging "the vital agreement" welcomed by all.

The minister added that, despite the consistent actions of the Turkish side, still not all extremists have obeyed the demand to leave the 20-km demilitarized zone.

On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of the Group of 20 (G20) summit held in Argentina and discussed bilateral cooperation and issues on the regional and international agenda, according to the Kremlin.

In September at a bilateral meeting held in Russia's coastal city of Sochi, the two countries agreed to establish a demilitarized zone in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, the last rebel stronghold in Syria, urging rebel groups to evacuate.

Under the deal, Russia and Turkey decided to carry out joint patrols in the area to prevent further fighting.The World Customs Organization (WCO), with the financial support of CCF Japan, organized a National Train the Trainer Workshop on Rules of Origin for Indonesia Customs. This Workshop, conducted in Bandung from 26 to 30 November 2018, was attended by 38 officials.

Indonesia is part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) which has concluded Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with a number of partner countries. In order for Indonesia to benefit to the maximum extent possible from the FTAs while securing revenue collection, participants have been equipped with international tools and technical know on how to ensure a sustainable ability to maintain and pass on international standards in relation to rules of origin. During the Workshop they have become more familiar with instructional materials and international capacity building standards.

Topics discussed during the Workshop included the key concepts for proper origin determination, related operational and procedural issues, the establishment of an efficient origin management and provision of effective training and private sector outreach.

Participants discussed specific areas of concern, including the low level of knowledge and use of the FTAs and challenges linked to origin procedures. Discussions also emphasized the importance of verifying the originating status of goods, rather than merely checking the authenticity of the certificate of origin.

The knowledge and experience gained from the Workshop will assist the Administration in the correct application of the Free Trade Agreements and will help Indonesia benefit from the regional economic integration, promote exports of originating products and ensure the correct application of preferential treatments for importations.If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now!

SubmitBy West Kentucky Star Staff Dec. 03, 2018 | 05:42 AM | PADUCAH

Ray Taliaferro, an outspoken liberal who from 1977 through 2011 hosted an overnight talk radio program in San Francisco, has been found dead in Paducah.According to the Paducah Police Department, two teenagers found Taliaferro's body Sunday afternoon in a wooded area behind Brooks Stadium. Further details surrounding his death are not clear at this time. More details will reportedly be released following an autopsy, which is pending.Taliaferro, 79, was reported missing Nov. 10, according to the Massac County Sheriff's Department.

His son released the following statement confirming his death:



"It is with great sadness that the Taliaferro family has to announce the passing of Ray Taliaferro. His body was found in Paducah, Kentucky in a wooded area approximately a mile from where he was last seen. The family appreciates the support and help we received in our search for Ray. This is a devastating ending to our search for him over these past weeks. The family is in the process of working with the police to learn the matters surrounding his death. At this time, we are processing this turn of events and ask for privacy as we work through our loss."



Before he went missing, the onetime San Francisco radio host had last been seen in Paducah on Nov. 10. A flier put out by the Paducah Police Department stated that "Ray was last seen talking with the manager of the Mellow Mushroom pizza restaurant in Paducah. He may be experiencing disorientation and signs of dementia."



Taliaferro has a long professional resume, which includes leading the San Francisco chapter of the NAACP. He also is credited as being the first Black talk-show host in a major market radio station (New York City) and being named San Francisco's first Black member of the Arts Commission.



Anyone with info about his death or disappearance is asked to contact the Massac County Sheriff's Department at 618-524-2912 or the Paducah Police Department at 270-444-8550.Source: Daily Pakistan

ISLAMABAD-The air forces of Pakistan and China launched seventh joint drills, dubbed Shaheen VII, at an operational airbase in Pakistan on Sunday.

According to a PAF spokesperson, a contingent of Chinese Air Force has reached Pakistan which includes pilots and air defense controllers.

Apart from technical crew, fighter, bomber and early warning AWACS airplanes of China are also part of the military exercise, state media reported.

The sixth joint exercise was held at a Chinese airbase last year.

Pakistan has a long and strong relationship with China. The long-standing ties between the two countries have been mutually beneficial. A close identity of views and mutual interests remain the centre-point of bilateral ties.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Imran Khan visited Chian, renewing the strategic ties with the all-weather friend.

During the visit, China also pledged bailout economic packages to support the crumbling economy of Pakistan. Around 15 agreements were inked by both countries to boost the bilateral ties.

The two sides also agreed to strengthen bilateral economic, trade and strategic relations, while they also decided to promote cooperation of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor projects.

Disclaimer: This article was originally produced and published by Daily Pakistan. View the original article at Daily Pakistan.Email To : Multiple e-mail addresses must be separated with a comma character(maximum 200 characters) Email To is required.

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A Marshall County man is facing burglary and theft charges.

The Marshall County Sheriff's Office says a deputy was dispatched to Fly Away Drive on Friday in reference to a burglary. Deputies say an unknown man had entered the home, stolen a change of clothing and a cellular phone. The man then reportedly stole a set of keys and stole the victim's pick-up truck.

A detective was on his way to the home to assist with the investigation when he saw the stolen pick-up truck in Draffenville. Police were able to stop the truck and identified the suspect as Charles Rich of Benton.

Rich reportedly admitted to the burglary and was arrested. He's charged with 2nd degree burglary and theft by unlawful taking over $10,000. He was lodged in the Marshall County Detention Center.Advertisement

By The Associated Press

Nov. 30, 2018 | ANCHORAGE

By The Associated Press Nov. 30, 2018 | 02:22 PM | ANCHORAGE

Back-to-back earthquakes measuring 7.0 and 5.7 rocked buildings and shattered roads Friday morning in Anchorage, sending people running into the streets and briefly triggering a warning to residents in Kodiak to flee to higher ground for fear of a tsunami.



The tsunami warning was lifted without incident a short time later. There were no immediate reports of any deaths or serious injuries.



The U.S. Geological Survey said the first and more powerful quake was centered about 7 miles (12 kilometers) north of Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, with a population of about 300,000. People ran from their offices or took cover under desks.



A large section of road near the Anchorage airport collapsed, marooning a car on a narrow island of pavement surrounded by deep chasms in the concrete.



The shaking broke store windows, opened cracks in a two-story building downtown, disrupted electrical service and disabled traffic lights, snarling traffic. It also threw a full-grown man out of his bathtub.



All flights were halted at the airport after the quake knocked out telephones and forced the evacuation of the control tower, and the 800-mile Alaska oil pipeline was shut down while crews were sent to inspect it for damage.



Anchorage's school system canceled classes and asked parents to pick up their children while it examined buildings for gas leaks or other damage.



Officials opened an Anchorage convention center as an emergency shelter. Gov. Bill Walker issued a disaster declaration.



Cereal boxes and packages of batteries littered the floor of a grocery store, and picture frames and mirrors were knocked from living room walls.



People went back inside after the first earthquake struck, but the 5.7 aftershock about five minutes later sent them running back into the streets. A series of smaller aftershocks followed.



A tsunami warning was issued for the southern Alaska coastal areas of Cook's Inlet and part of the Kenai peninsula. Kodiak police on Kodiak Island warned people in the city of 6,100 to "evacuate to higher ground immediately" because of "wave estimated 10 minutes."



Michael Burgy, a senior technician with the National Tsunami Warning Center in Palmer, Alaska, said the tsunami warning was automatically generated based on the quake's size and proximity to shore. Scientists monitored gauges to see if the quake generated big waves. Because there were none, they canceled the warning.



In Kenai, southwest of Anchorage, Brandon Slaton was alone at home and soaking in the bathtub when the earthquake struck. Slaton, who weighs 209 pounds, said it created a powerful back-and-forth sloshing in the bath, and before he knew it, he was thrown out of the tub by the waves.



His 120-pound mastiff panicked and tried to run down the stairs, but the house was swaying so much that the dog was thrown off its feet and into a wall and tumbled to the base of the stairs, Slaton said.



Slaton ran into his son's room after the shaking stopped and found his fish tank shattered and the fish on the floor, gasping for breath. He grabbed it and put it in another bowl.



"It was anarchy," he said. "There's no pictures left on the walls, there's no power, there's no fish tank left. Everything that's not tied down is broke."



Alaska averages 40,000 earthquakes per year, with more large quakes than the 49 other states combined. Southern Alaska has a high risk of earthquakes because of tectonic plates sliding past each other under the region.



Alaska has been hit by a number of powerful quakes over 7.0 magnitude in recent decades, including a 7.9 that hit last January southeast of Kodiak Island. But it is rare for a quake this big to strike so close such a heavily populated area.



David Harper was getting some coffee at a store when the low rumble began and intensified into something that sounded "like the building was just going to fall apart." Harper ran to the exit with other patrons.



"The main thought that was going through my head as I was trying to get out the door was, 'I want this to stop,'" he said. Harper said the quake was "significant enough that the people who were outside were actively hugging each other. You could tell that it was a bad one."



On March 27, 1964, Alaska was hit by a 9.2 earthquake, the strongest recorded in U.S. history, centered about 75 miles (120 kilometers) east of Anchorage. The quake, which lasted about 4 minutes, and the tsunami it triggered claimed about 130 lives.Newly inaugurated Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador received a traditional cleansing during an indigenous ceremony Saturday in Mexico Citys central plaza, or zocalo.At one point, Lopez Obrador, who was sworn into office Saturday for a six-year term, dropped to his knees in a cloud of incense as indigenous healers performed a rite of purification, brushing him with bunches of herbs.The ceremony  involving representatives of dozens of Mexicos indigenous groups, many donning traditional clothing  was a highlight of the inauguration day, with tens of thousands of people in attendance.We are going to give special attention to the indigenous people of Mexico, Lopez Obrador vowed, addressing thousands of people gathered at a stage set up in the plaza. It is a disgrace that our original communities live with oppression and racism, with poverty and marginalization.Indigenous people represent about 10% of Mexicos population, concentrated in certain areas, such as the poverty-stricken southern states of Oaxaca and Chiapas.Lopez Obrador and his wife, Beatriz Gutierrez Muller, were both enveloped in incense as indigenous healers performed the cleansing of the first couple.Lopez Obrador received a traditional baston de mando  a wooden staff representing leadership and respect  and later said indigenous people would have priority in various new social programs.After receiving the baston de mando, I reaffirm my vow not to lie, not to rob and not to betray the people of Mexico, declared Lopez Obrador, who held the ribbon-bedecked staff in his left hand as he spoke.Bouquets of flowers and the indigenous guests provided a backdrop as Lopez Obrador addressed the crowd.The presidents speech was meant to be a direct message to the Mexican people, following his afternoon address to Mexican lawmakers and dignitaries at the congressional palace.Observers said it was the first time in memory that such an indigenous rite had been incorporated into a Mexican presidential inaugural event.A festive atmosphere pervaded the square as supporters of AMLO  the presidents nickname, after his initials  praised the new chief of states expansive plans to shrink poverty and provide jobs, scholarships, improved pensions and other aid for needy Mexicans.He gives us hope that things will change, said Arnuldo Beltran, 54, who said he traveled from the Gulf state of Veracruz to witness the inauguration festivities. Hope that Mexico will be a country in which we, the poor, are listened to. Its a historic day, thats why I came.Medical staffs of the secondary hospital of Chinese peacekeeping force to Congo (DRC) conduct ward round to the Egyptian patients. (military.cnr.cn)

BEIJING, Dec. 03 (ChinaMil) -- The recent outbreak of malaria in Africa is affecting many UN peacekeeping mission areas. In Bukavu, a city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), 35 peacekeepers of the advance force of the Egypt special operations company were infected with malaria for being bitten by poisonous mosquitoes during their patrol in primitive jungles. They were in a serious condition.

Upon receiving the rescue assignment, the secondary hospital of Chinese peacekeeping force to Congo (DRC) took immediate action. 21 patients were admitted to the hospital; nine patients remained on observation status; and the remaining five patients were treated with antimalarial medicine in the primary hospital.

November, the rainy season in Bukavu, is the peak malaria transmission period. The stagnant water in the lower ground around the peacekeeping camps is the suitable larval habitats that increase the spread of malaria.

Malaria is a febrile illness with an incubation period, characterized by fever and related symptoms. Patients commonly suffer from flu-like symptoms such as feeling hot or shivery. Some of the infected Egyptian officers and soldiers experienced severe headaches and vomiting; some experienced shaking chills; some experienced symptoms of high fever and anxiety.

When the medical staffs were treating the patients, the other personnel of the Chinese peacekeeping secondary hospital were working around the clock to set up isolation areas and clean areas. They reinforced automatic curtains, placed extra anti-mosquito device and conducted disinfection operations in each ward.

After the meticulous treatment, all the Egyptian peacekeepers recovered and were discharged from the hospital. Every time a patient left the hospital, they shook hands and had group photos with the medical personnel to show their gratitude. The commander of Egypts special operations company also paid a special trip to the Chinese secondary hospital to express his sincere gratitude.

Thanks the Chinese secondary hospital to Congo (DRC) for your great contributions to the UN peacekeeping mission areas! You provide us with high-quality medical services and professional anti-malaria knowledge. Your practices shall be promoted in all sectors, said the commander of Sector South of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). He added, Peacekeepers in the Bukavu mission area will always remember your generous and selfless contributions!Alumni in the news November 2018

Round-up of newsmakers and ideas

Wits University installed its ninth Chancellor, Dr Judy Dlamini, on 1 December 2018. Dr Dlamini is a Wits alumna, with an MBA among her qualifications. Read more and listen to the audio: http://www.wits.ac.za/news/latest-news/general-news/2018/2018-12/new-chancellor-praises-lionesses-of-africa-and-calls-for-greater-recognition-of-female-leadership.html

The previous Chancellor, Justice Dikgang Moseneke, spoke at his farewell ceremony about being radical and still being thoughtful. Read more and hear his speech: http://www.wits.ac.za/news/latest-news/general-news/2018/2018-11/protect-and-safeguard-wits.html

Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan spoke at the annual Founders Tea: https://soundcloud.com/wits-university-official/pravin-gordhan-wits-founders-tea

Nobel laureate (chemistry, 1982) and Wits alumnus Sir Aaron Klug passed away on 20 November 2018. Read more: https://www2.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/aaron-klug-1926-2018/

Not even Wits palaeontologist Professor Lee Berger has been into the Dinaledi chamber of the Rising Star cave system where Homo naledi was found. The entrance is just too tiny. But a new virtual reality app means anyone can have the experience. This video explains it: https://youtu.be/ni8DcvvlDEw. The app is available in English, Spanish, Sesotho, Setswana and isiZulu.

The 50th anniversary edition of The Wits Business School Journal has been launched. The special edition reflects on both the past and the future, spotlighting some trailblazing WBS alumni. Hard copies are available from jane.balnaves@wits.ac.za or alison.gaylard@wits.ac.za.

Dr Shakira Choonara (BHSc 2010, BA Hons 2012, MA 2013, PhD 2017) is one of eight young leaders from across the African continent who will be on the inaugural African Union Youth Advisory Council. Dr Choonara is a youth activist with experience on the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation Youth Leadership Programme, One Young World, Emerging Voices for Global Health and the Obama Foundation Leaders: Africa programme. She has also been listed as one of Destiny magazines most powerful women under the age of 40 and one of News 24s 100 Young Mandelas of the Future.

Specialist physician and nephrologist Dr Nolubabalo Unathi Nqebelele (MMed 2014) is the first black woman to earn a PhD in internal medicine at Wits. Read more: https://www.wits.ac.za/news/latest-news/our-people/2018/2018-11/a-nephrologist-with-a-vision-for-justice-in-health-care.html

Roberto Leonardi (BCom 1986) is the Regional Officer for Asia of Italian insurance firm Generali HK. He talks about innovation in this interview with The CEO Magazine: https://www.theceomagazine.com/executive-interviews/finance-banking/roberto-leonardi/

Wits Emeritus Professor in Music Jeanne Zaidel-Rudolph won a United Nations Women in Music competition for her Human Rights Oratorio, a composition celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. See the performance here: https://youtu.be/XkYdrXFxL50

Wits Emeritus Professor Beric Skews (BSc Eng 1958, MSc Eng 1961, PhD 1967, DSc Eng honoris causa 2016) is still a highly productive A-rated researcher. Read more: http://www.wits.ac.za/news/latest-news/research-news/2018/2018-11/fifth-a-rating-for-82-year-old-engineer-.html

Geosciences graduate Tim Marais (BSc 2010, BSc Hons 2011) was travelling in Madagascar when he heard about a meteorite that had recently fallen nearby. Read more: http://www.wits.ac.za/news/latest-news/research-news/2018/2018-11/detective-mission-to-characterise-and-trace-the-history-of-a-new-african-meteorite.html

Dr Mavhungu Tracy Nelwamondo (MBBCh 2011) sells heritage and indigenous food at the Bryanston Organic Market. Read more: https://winemag.co.za/review-modern-traditions-at-the-bryanston-organic-market/

Retired Springbok rugby player Ashwin Willemse graduated from Wits this year with the degree of Master of Management in Entrepreneurship  cum laude. Audio: https://iono.fm/e/624019

Nicola Hayward (BSc 1985, BSc Hons 1986) won the Best of the Best Award at the SA Independent Publishers Awards for her novel Master Jack.

The old Rembrandt Gallery on West Campus is now the Commerce, Law and Management Postgraduate Centre. The Heritage Portal explains the refurbishment project: http://www.theheritageportal.co.za/article/conversation-jan-van-wijk-refurbishment-rembrandt-gallery-wits-university

A new group of student leaders has joined the Management Committee of the South African Student Solidarity Foundation for Education (SASSFE).

Revisit an interview with Professor Phillip Tobias, on the Heritage Portal website: http://www.theheritageportal.co.za/article/phillip-tobias-mensch

The Heritage Portal also has a review by Witsie Kathy Munro of the book Johannesburg, Then and Now by Marc Latilla.

The First World War ended 100 years ago. Read on The Conversation about how alumni William Kentridge and Martin Plaut reflected on this milestone.South China Sea (File Photo)

BEIJING, Dec. 3 (ChinaMil) -- A spokesperson for the Southern Theater Command of Chinas Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) recently made his debut public appearance.

According to a message released by the WeChat Official Account of the PLAs Southern Theater Command on November 30, Senior Colonel Li Huamin, spokesperson for the PLA Southern Theater Command, recently said that USS cruiser Chancellorsville trespassed into the territorial waters off Chinas Xisha Islands on November 26 without authorization from Chinese government. He added that the Southern Theater Command then organized relevant air and sea forces to track, monitor, verify, and identify the US warship in accordance with relevant laws and regulations, and warned it to leave the area.

In addition, Senior Colonel Li said that the troops of the Southern Theater Command will continue to closely monitor the air and sea situation, prevent accidents that endanger the security of China, firmly perform their duties and responsibilities, and resolutely defend Chinas national sovereignty and security. The Chinese side urged the US to strengthen the management of its ships and aircraft passing by China to prevent unexpected events.

Senior Colonel Li Huamin is the first spokesperson at the theater command level who has made an official debut appearance since the establishment of the five theater commands on February 1, 2016. This signifies the further improvement of the PLA military spokesperson system.

he regular press conference system of the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) was officially established on April 27, 2011. Since then, the MND has been holding a regular press conference every month, at which the spokesperson for the MND introduces relevant situation and answers media inquiries.

On the basis of the MND spokesperson system, seven units of the PLA, namely the former General Political Department, the former General Logistics Department, the former General Equipment Department, the Navy, the Air Force, the former Second Artillery Force, and the Armed Police Force (APF), set up their own spokesperson system with the approval of Chinas Central Military Commission (CMC) in November 2013.

The PLA Army held a pre-match press conference for subjects of the International Army Games (IAG) 2018 in Korla, northwest Chinas Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, on July 27, 2018, at which Senior Colonel Liao Yanling, the first spokesperson for the PLA Army, made a public appearance.



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Some of the details were echoed by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who confirmed that both countries will step up negotiations. The news is likely to bring cheer Monday to global financial markets, which have been sensitive to the escalating trade battles between China and the United States.

Trump and Xi also "agreed to immediately begin negotiations on structural changes with respect to forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and cyber theft, services and agriculture," according to the White House statement. "Both parties agree that they will endeavor to have this transaction completed within the next 90 days. If at the end of this period of time, the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the 10 percent tariffs will be raised to 25 percent."

"China will agree to purchase a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial, amount of agricultural, energy, industrial and other product from the United States to reduce the trade imbalance between our two countries," said White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders. "China has agreed to start purchasing agricultural product from our farmers immediately."

Trump agreed that he will leave the tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese products at the 10 percent rate, and not raise it to 25 percent, for now, as he has threatened to do come Jan. 1, according to a White House statement.

Trump, speaking to reporters on Air Force One after the plane departed Argentina, said his agreement made over dinner with Xi, will go down "as one of the largest deals ever made. And it'll have an incredibly positive impact on farming, meaning agriculture, industrial products, computers -- every type of product."

The world's two largest economies, the U.S. and China, have agreed to a small truce in their escalating trade war after a meeting between presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping following the G20 summit.

 Fentanyl Designation

At the dinner, Xi also agreed to designate fentanyl as a controlled substance, meaning that people selling the powerful opioid to the United States will be subject to China's maximum penalty under the law.

The White House is calling the Chinese president's decision a "wonderful humanitarian gesture." Trump, sitting across from Xi at a long banquet table, described their relationship as "incredible" and predicted that would mean "we'll probably end up getting something that's good for China and good for the United States."

In his remarks, the Chinese president noted, "it's been a long time since our previous meeting and a lot of things have taken place." Xi added, "Only with cooperation between us can we serve the interest of world peace and prosperity."

 G20 Summit Concludes

The 2.5-hour meal, which was moved up an hour earlier than its original start time following the conclusion of the G20 leaders' meeting here, included a group of top officials from both sides.

Among those at the table for the United States: Trade policy adviser Peter Navarro, seen as the most hawkish member of Trump's team when it comes to economic issues with China. The other key attendees for the U.S., according to the White House, were Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, White House Chief of Staff John Kelly, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, National Security Adviser John Bolton, the president's son-in-law Jared Kushner (who is a senior adviser) and Larry Kudlow, assistant to the president for economic policy.

 Fears of No Progress

Many major business leaders in both the United States and China had hoped for some sort of truce or partial deal in what is seen as an escalating trade dispute between the world's two largest economies.

Despite months of complaints by the United States and the U.S. imposing tariffs on about $250 billion worth of Chinese goods, Beijing "has not fundamentally alerted its unfair, unreasonable, and market-distorting practices," according to a report issued last week by Lighthizer.

Observers feared that if no progress was made at the Trump-Xi dinner, the U.S. president would make good on his threat to double the amount of Chinese goods facing punitive taxes, and escalate tariffs to a 25 percent level at the start of the new year. China, in response, had been threatening to impose taxes on an additional 5,000 types of American imports worth about $60 billion.

 WTO Reform

"I think the worst of it is that the conflict between China and the U.S. is again showing the limits of multilateral institutions, in particular the World Trade Organization," Roberto Bouzas, an international relations and economics professor at the Universidad de San Andres, told VOA.

In its communique Saturday at the conclusion of the leaders' summit, the G20 called for reform of the WTO to improve its functioning and said the group would review progress made by the trade organization at next year's summit in Japan.

"For the first time ever, the G20 recognized the WTO is currently falling short of meeting its objectives and that it's in need of reform," a U.S. official, speaking on condition of not being named, told reporters.

"We'll see what reactions we get in the next few months," to the WTO reform call in the communique, G20 host Mauricio Macri, the president of Argentina, told reporters, adding, "there is clearly a need for dispute mechanisms that are more agile."

 No Press Conference

Earlier in the day, Trump canceled a planned news conference, saying the timing was not right because of the death of former U.S. President George H.W. Bush at the age of 94. "He was a terrific guy and he'll be missed. He lived a full life and an exemplary life," Trump said of the late president. He did not respond to a reporter's question about whether he regrets his past criticism of the 41st president, and his son, George W. Bush, who was the 43rd president.

"The fact that we lost a president really puts a damper on it," Trump said of Saturday evening's dinner. At the table, Trump announced his plane would fly to Houston, in the state of Texas, after the return of Air Force One from Argentina, to transport Bush's casket to Washington.

During the meal, Xi also expressed sympathies for the passing of the former president, saying Bush, who also was once the U.S. envoy to China, had "made many contributions to U.S.-China friendship."

Xi, according to the White House, also told Trump he is open to approving the previously unapproved $44 billion bid by American semiconductor and telecommunication equipment manufacturer Qualcomm to purchase Dutch semiconductor maker NXP should the deal again be presented to him. The acquisition collapsed four months ago after Chinese regulators expressed anti-trust concerns.Concerns uniform has become sexualised leads school to consult over changes

This article is old - Published: Monday, Dec 3rd, 2018

Concerns that a schools uniform has become increasingly sexualised have led to a consultation being launched over proposed changes.

Ysgol Clywedog in Wrexham is asking for views on what pupils should wear as a result of a number of issues being highlighted, including skirt lengths and youngsters dressing in leggings.

The secondary school said some students had also complained that the current uniform was not mature or aspirational enough.

The move follows a recent report which shows that more than one in three girls in the UK have received unwanted sexual attention while wearing their uniform in public.

Girls rights charity Plan International said incidents brought to its attention included cases of youngsters being groped, followed or wolf-whistled.

In a newsletter, the school said: For some time, many concerns have been raised by a range of stakeholders regarding the current school uniform that has culminated in this decision to undertake a review.

The most significant issues surround inappropriate and increasingly sexualised dress amongst some students, which includes skirt length, trouser length, leggings and jeggings as well as the increasing incidence of embellishments such as gold zips.

General feedback from staff, governors, parents and students indicates a clear desire to retain the traditional blue colour scheme, however the current uniform is not sufficiently aspirational or smart.

Concerns have been raised on many occasions by parents and staff regarding the overall appearance of students, being particularly evident in school events and most notably during external events when students go out into the community.

Feedback from some students indicates that the current uniform is often likened to that of a primary school and is perceived to be insufficiently mature or aspirational.

The Ruthin Road-based school has now planning to follow in the footsteps of several others in the area by replacing sweatshirts with blazers.

Parents have also indicated that the affordability and durability of uniform remains a key factor.

The school added: On the basis of this initial discussions we have published an initial survey for students, parents, staff and governors.

We hope to ascertain the initial views of all stakeholders in order that they are active participants in deciding if there is a need to change, and if so, in shaping the uniform of the future.

A link to the survey can be found on the schools website.

It intends to put formal proposals forward in September next year, once all feedback has been considered.

By Liam Randall  BBC Local Democracy Reporter (more here on the LDR scheme).

Top pic Kapila AnuruddhaTwo assaults on police over weekend in Wrexham  nine overall in North Wales

This article is old - Published: Monday, Dec 3rd, 2018

Police in North Wales were assaulted nine times over the weekend, including an assault on a Wrexham Officer at the FA Cup clash.

The incidents happened in Wrexham, Deiniolen, Bangor, Prestatyn, Rhyl and Llandudno.

In Wrexham a police officer was assaulted at the Wrexham v Newport County match on Saturday and a Wrexham PCSO was also assaulted over the weekend.

An officer was assaulted while making an arrest in Deiniolen on Saturday afternoon, but did not need medical treatment and remained on duty.

Two PCSOs were assaulted in Bangor on Friday night also while making an arrest. Members of the public came to their assistance and one of the officers received treatment for minor injuries at Ysbyty Gwynedd.

The offenders were charged using the new protect the protectors law introduced in November which allows courts to impose stiffer sentences on those who assault members of the emergency services.

Meanwhile an officer was assaulted in Llandudno and another in Prestatyn while two more were assaulted in Rhyl when dealing with a person arrested for being drunk and disorderly.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Neill Anderson said; A number of times this year we have expressed our concern about the readiness of some individuals to assault police officers and PCSOs while carrying out their lawful duties.

The shocking incidents over the weekend across North Wales are completely unacceptable. Our officers are working hard to protect the most vulnerable and to keep people safe. An assault of any kind should never be considered part of the job and offenders need to understand that North Wales Police will not tolerate such behaviour.

Officers are well trained and equipped and we seek to ensure that welfare arrangements are available when they become victims of an assault. These attacks leave their mark physically and mentally on the officers and in some cases their families.

Fortunately no one was seriously injured this weekend and as seasonal celebrations get underway the public will see officers out and about endeavouring to keep our communities safe.

We want people to enjoy themselves, but we will not tolerate any violence towards officers doing their duty and we will take firm action against offenders.WASHINGTON (AP) - The Latest on events related to late former President George H.W. Bush (all times local):

10:45 a.m.

A hearse carrying the casket of former President George H.W. Bush has left a Houston funeral home.

The casket was draped in an American flag and was carried by six pallbearers on Monday morning. It was placed into a hearse headed to Houston's Ellington Field, where a presidential aircraft waited to carry Bush's body to Washington for a state funeral.

The hearse was part of a motorcade escorted by Houston police officers on motorcycles.

Bush died Friday in Houston at age 94.

___

10:35 a.m.

A spokeswoman confirms former President Jimmy Carter plans to attend the state funeral for former President George H.W. Bush.

Rosalynn Carter will not attend. The 91-year-old former first lady has limited her travels in recent months.

With Bush's death, Jimmy Carter becomes the oldest living former president, at age 94. Both men were born in 1924, Bush on June 12, Carter on Oct. 1.

Bush served as CIA director when Carter first ran for president 1976. Carter replaced Bush with Stansfield Turner.

Four years later, Bush joined the Ronald Reagan Republican ticket that routed Carter in the 1980 presidential election.

Bush died Friday in Houston at age 94. An invitation-only funeral service is set for Wednesday at Washington National Cathedral.

___

10:20 a.m.

Secret Service personnel who had been assigned to protecting George H.W. Bush are serving as honorary pallbearers as his remains begin making their way from Houston to a state funeral in Washington.

The former president's spokesman, Jim McGrath, tweeted Monday that for "this first movement in Houston" members of "the current SecretService Bush Protective Division will serve as honorary pallbearers."

Bush died at his Houston home on Friday at age 94. His remains are scheduled to arrive at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland on Monday afternoon and later will begin lying in state at the U.S. Capitol.

On Wednesday morning, a motorcade will take the remains to a state funeral at the National Cathedral.

___

9:20 a.m.

Houston is honoring George H.W. Bush with a City Hall tribute and urging people who attend to dress in colorful socks, a nod to one of the former president's favorite fashion accessories.

Mayor Sylvester Turner is hosting Monday evening's event featuring music and community leaders in front of City Hall. Turner tweeted that those in attendance should "wear their own colorful socks."

Bush often sported bright socks, sometimes with loud, unusual patterns. He died Friday at his Houston home at age 94, and his body is heading to Washington for a state funeral.

Spokesman Jim McGrath tweeted Monday that Bush "will be carried to his final rest" wearing gray socks saluting the Armed Forces and paying "tribute to his lifetime of service," starting as an 18-year-old "naval aviator in war."

___

1:35 a.m.

George H.W. Bush is set to embark on his final tour of Washington as a nation prepares to bid farewell to its 41st president.

His remains will arrive in Washington on Monday, and he will lie in state at the Capitol through Wednesday. An invitation-only funeral service is set for Wednesday at Washington National Cathedral, to be attended by President Donald Trump and other dignitaries.

Bush will then be returned to Houston for burial Thursday at his presidential library at Texas A&M University.

He will be laid to rest alongside Barbara Bush, his wife of 73 years who died in April, and Robin Bush, the daughter who died of leukemia at age 3.

Bush was president from 1989 to 1993. He died Friday in Houston at age 94.

(Copyright 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL)  Sunday was the start of Hanukkah and a Tallahassee group celebrated by hosting a Jewish festival at Lake Ella on Sunday evening.

This was the 19th annual Jewish community Hanukkah Celebration for Chabad of Tallahassee.

Mayor John Dailey and City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow helped light a six-foot menorah made out of Legos.

People also built dreidels and enjoyed traditional Jewish foods.

"You could be proud to be a Jew and you can come out and celebrate and the government, not only is not going to prevent you but help you. And the focus and the message of Hanukkah is the message that a little bit of light overcome much darkness," said Rabbi Schneur Oirechman.

Hanukkah celebrations continue Monday in Tallahassee.

A 9 foot menorah will be lit at Florida State tomorrow on Landis Green.

That event starts at 5:30 p.m.TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for north central Madison County in the Big Bend of Florida, southwestern Lowndes County in south central Georgia and southeastern Brooks County in south central Georgia.

A later warning also was issued for the Georgia counties of Echols and Clinch.

The weather service issued the first warning at 2:38 a.m. Monday saying that a severe thunderstorm was found that was capable of producing a tornado.

NWS says the warning will last until 3:15 a.m. Monday for the counties except for Lowndes, which lasts until 3:30 a.m.

The weather service says the storm will be near Lake Park and I-75 at Exit 16 around 2:50 a.m. Other locations impacted by this tornadic thunderstorm include I-75 at Exit 5, Nankin, Twin Lakes, Empress, Remerton, Clyattville, Cherry Lake, Dasher, Pinetta and I-75 at Exit 11.

Take cover now, the weather service advises. Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.(WTXL) - A suspect in the death of a 40-year-old man found in a parking lot has been arrested in Melbourne, Fla., according to the Valdosta Police Department.

Police say Ian Rashad Henry, 23, was arrested Saturday by the Melbourne Police Department and is being held pending extradition back to Lowndes County.

Henry was wanted in the slaying of Stephen Styles, who was prononced dead on the scene on Nov. 12, 2018.

We greatly appreciate the work of the Melbourne Police Department in their persistent hard work, to ensure that this dangerous individual was taken off of the streets," said Interim Chief Leslie Manahan.

Valdosta police seek suspect in slaying of 40-year-old man

VALDOSTA, Ga. (WTXL) - The Valdosta Police Department is looking for a suspect in the death of a 40-year-old man found in a parking lot.

Police are seeking Ian Rashad Henry, 23, who they say should be considered armed and dangerous.

Stephen Styles was found shot on Nov. 12, 2018, in Blanton Commons in the 1500 block of Lankford Drive. He was pronounced dead there.

Police responded to that scene in response to a call for emergency assistance.

The VPD is asking that anyone who knows Henry's location to telephone them.

Police investigate slaying of 40-year-old man in Valdosta

VALDOSTA, Ga. (WTXL) - Police are investigating after a 40-year-old man was found dead in the parking lot of a local apartment complex.

The Valdosta Police Department says that they were called to Blanton Commons in 1500 block of Lankford Drive around 12:44 a.m. on Monday. The caller reported that a victim had been shot.

When police and Lowndes County deputies arrived, they found an unresponsive victim, later identified as 40-year-old Stephen Styles, in the parking lot of the apartment complex.

Styles was pronounced dead on scene.

VPD detectives are continuing to investigate the homicide and crime scene technicians with the Valdosta/Lowndes Regional Crime Lab are also processing the scene for evidence.

Police report the incident appears to be isolated, though the motive is unclear. The investigation is still active.

If you have any information about the case, you are asked to call the Valdosta Police Department at 229-242-2606.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 05:36:04|Editor: Chengcheng

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WASHINGTON, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said late Saturday that he would quickly withdraw the United States from the 24-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), in an attempt to force Congress to approve a revised version of the pact.

"I will be formally terminating NAFTA shortly," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One en route from the Group of Twenty (G20) summit in Argentina, according to a White House press release.

"Congress will have a choice of approving the USMCA, which is a phenomenal deal, much, much better than NAFTA," said Trump, who has repeatedly threatened to pull out of NAFTA entirely.

The U.S. president, along with Canadian and Mexican leaders, signed the new deal, the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), on Friday after more than a year of intense negotiations.

Hailing the deal as "modern and balanced," the president said at the signing ceremony that it has been "well-reviewed" and he doesn't expect to have much problem in Congress.

The new deal has, however, generated a groundswell of opposition from lawmakers especially the Democrats, who will take control of the House in January, making a smooth passage unlikely.

"It's disappointing but not surprising" that the U.S. president would try to force Congress to reinstate the status quo of #NAFTA, instead of working constructively with Congress to improve his proposed agreement, Henry Connelly, a spokesman for House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, said on Twitter Sunday morning.

Pelosi, who is expected to take the role of House Speaker in January, has repeatedly expressed deep concerns over the deal's enforceability.

"We are waiting to see enforcement provisions relating to workers and the environment," Pelosi said Friday in a statement, describing the deal as a "work in progress." The USMCA requires at least 40 percent of car production to come from factories with an average wage of 16 U.S. dollars per hour.

"I think we should see if we can get it passed first," Republican Senator John Barrasso said on NBC News' Meet the Press Sunday. "I want to see how many Democratic votes come on board for this."

U.S. Congress can suggest small changes to be made to the legislation, and many lawmakers have been waiting for an economic impact study from the U.S. International Trade Commission before making their final decision. The commission has up to 105 days, or by mid-March to complete a report.

In a hearing held mid-November, John Bozzella, president of the Association of Global Automakers, said the new agreement could hurt the industry. The USMCA would raise the requirement for North American content in cars to a whopping 75 percent from 62.5 percent, among other things. Bozzella said automakers will need to invest in "elaborate processes" to ensure compliance with such rules, and suppliers will have to establish similar "costly processes."

Meanwhile, a number of lawmakers and business groups are trying to push for the removal of U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada and Mexico, which have inflicted harm upon American manufacturers and consumers, raising costs for a wide array of industries.

"While there's a lot to like in this new agreement, I'm disappointed that the Section 232 tariffs on Canada and Mexico still remain in place," Republican Senator Rob Portman said in a statement on Friday.

Business Roundtable, an influential association of leading U.S. companies' executives, also called for a "prompt resolution" of the tariff issue between all three countries while reviewing the final text of the new trade agreement.Moon said, "We need to offer water-tight guarantees" for Kim's safety during any visit. "The public must understand any inconveniences that may arise like traffic jams."

Speaking to reporters aboard his plane en route to New Zealand, Moon said, "Although we cannot be certain, the issue is up to Chairman Kim."

U.S. President Donald Trump supports a visit from North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to South Korea, President Moon Jae-in said Sunday. Moon and Trump met on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina.

Kim had been expected to visit Seoul in mid-December but the North asked for a delay citing internal affairs. The government here has been trying to rearrange the visit after discussing it with the U.S.

Cheong Wa Dae said Moon and Trump met for about 30 minutes in Argentina on Friday and discussed Kim's visit to Seoul as well as sanctions against North Korea. The two leaders saw eye to eye "on the fact that Kim's visit to Seoul will add momentum to establishing peace on the Korean Peninsula," a spokesman said.

But at the moment Kim has little to gain since South Korea and the U.S. are unwilling to ease sanctions before North Korea scraps its nuclear weapons.

Meanwhile, Trump said a second summit with Kim could take place in January or February. Trump said he is considering three different places for the meeting, but did not elaborate.U.S. President Donald Trump, Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexico's President Enrique Pena Nieto sign documents during the USMCA signing ceremony before the G20 leaders summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina November 30, 2018. (REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque)

WASHINGTON, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said late Saturday that he would quickly withdraw the United States from the 24-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), in an attempt to force Congress to approve a revised version of the pact.

"I will be formally terminating NAFTA shortly," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One en route from the Group of Twenty (G20) summit in Argentina, according to a White House press release.

"Congress will have a choice of approving the USMCA, which is a phenomenal deal, much, much better than NAFTA," said Trump, who has repeatedly threatened to pull out of NAFTA entirely.

The U.S. president, along with Canadian and Mexican leaders, signed the new deal, the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), on Friday after more than a year of intense negotiations.

Hailing the deal as "modern and balanced," the president said at the signing ceremony that it has been "well-reviewed" and he doesn't expect to have much problem in Congress.

The new deal has, however, generated a groundswell of opposition from lawmakers especially the Democrats, who will take control of the House in January, making a smooth passage unlikely.

"It's disappointing but not surprising" that the U.S. president would try to force Congress to reinstate the status quo of #NAFTA, instead of working constructively with Congress to improve his proposed agreement, Henry Connelly, a spokesman for House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, said on Twitter Sunday morning.

Pelosi, who is expected to take the role of House Speaker in January, has repeatedly expressed deep concerns over the deal's enforceability.

"We are waiting to see enforcement provisions relating to workers and the environment," Pelosi said Friday in a statement, describing the deal as a "work in progress." The USMCA requires at least 40 percent of car production to come from factories with an average wage of 16 U.S. dollars per hour.

"I think we should see if we can get it passed first," Republican Senator John Barrasso said on NBC News' Meet the Press Sunday. "I want to see how many Democratic votes come on board for this."

U.S. Congress can suggest small changes to be made to the legislation, and many lawmakers have been waiting for an economic impact study from the U.S. International Trade Commission before making their final decision. The commission has up to 105 days, or by mid-March to complete a report.

In a hearing held mid-November, John Bozzella, president of the Association of Global Automakers, said the new agreement could hurt the industry. The USMCA would raise the requirement for North American content in cars to a whopping 75 percent from 62.5 percent, among other things. Bozzella said automakers will need to invest in "elaborate processes" to ensure compliance with such rules, and suppliers will have to establish similar "costly processes."

Meanwhile, a number of lawmakers and business groups are trying to push for the removal of U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada and Mexico, which have inflicted harm upon American manufacturers and consumers, raising costs for a wide array of industries.

"While there's a lot to like in this new agreement, I'm disappointed that the Section 232 tariffs on Canada and Mexico still remain in place," Republican Senator Rob Portman said in a statement on Friday.

Business Roundtable, an influential association of leading U.S. companies' executives, also called for a "prompt resolution" of the tariff issue between all three countries while reviewing the final text of the new trade agreement.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 05:56:08|Editor: yan

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HOUSTON, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- Oil prices have stopped dropping after a continual sixth-week loss. The price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) for January delivery increased 1.01 percent, while Brent crude for January delivery lost 0.15 percent, during the week ending Nov. 30.

In the previous week ending Nov. 23, WTI and Brent lost 10.7 percent and 11.9 percent, respectively. WTI and Brent settled at 50.42 U.S. dollars and 58.8 dollars per barrel, respectively, at the end of the week.

On Monday, oil prices jumped as U.S. largest online shopping day boosted stock markets and investors anticipated the upcoming meeting by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to cut output worldwide. WTI was up 1.21 U.S. dollars to settle at 51.63 dollars a barrel, while Brent rose 1.68 dollars to close at 60.48 dollars a barrel.

Oil prices tumbled to the lowest level since last October due to overwhelming fears of oversupply. Yet, crude futures were driven up by the rallying equities market, as Cyber Monday kicked off.

Besides, investors widely expected output cut as OPEC, led by Saudi Arabia, plans to hold a meeting on Dec. 6 to reverse falling oil prices amid possible supply surplus and softening demand.

On Tuesday, oil prices dropped slightly ahead of the scheduled OPEC meeting. WTI was down 7 U.S. cents to settle at 51.56 dollars a barrel, while Brent dipped 0.27 dollar to close at 60.21 dollars a barrel.

Investors remained doubtful over potential supply cuts, which tops the agenda of a meeting between Saudi-led OPEC and its allies in Vienna.

U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly called on OPEC not to cut output as he thought oil prices should continue to fall. Analysts said that Saudi Arabia would possibly not confront with Washington over oil prices.

On Wednesday, oil prices dipped as the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) recorded a continuous rise in U.S. crude inventories, exceeding market expectations. WTI fell 1.27 U.S. dollars to settle at 50.29 dollars a barrel, while Brent fell 1.72 dollars to close at 58.76 dollars a barrel.

U.S. crude stockpiles went through a 10th straight week of increase, up 3.6 million barrels in the week ending on Nov. 23, piling concerns over supply surplus and sagging demand growth.

According to EIA, U.S. crude oil imports and exports both increased in the week ending Nov. 23. U.S. crude oil imports averaged 8.2 million barrels per day, up by 608,000 barrels per day from the previous week. U.S. crude oil exports averaged 2.4 million barrels per day, up by 473,000 barrels per day from the previous week.

On Thursday, oil prices bounced as Russia President Vladimir Putin said that his country was in contact with OPEC and willing to continue cooperation with the Saudi-led oil cartel. WTI rose 1.16 U.S. dollars to settle at 51.45 dollars a barrel, while Brent rose 0.81 dollar to close at 59.57 dollars a barrel.

On Friday, oil prices extended losses as piling stockpiles further dampened entrenched concerns over supply surplus, offsetting to some extent market expectations on potential output cut from OPEC and its allies. WTI decreased 0.52 U.S. dollar to settle at 50.93 dollars a barrel, while Brent decreased 0.8 dollar to close at 58.71 dollars a barrel.

Both U.S. WTI and Brent, two global crude oil benchmarks, recorded their weakest month in November for over a decade, losing more than 20 percent.

Investors remained worried over the outlook for global oil policy, as Russia's energy minister Alexander Novak said Friday that Russia was expected to keep its oil output in 2019 at the same level as this year.

He did not rule out the possibility that Russia could adjust its future production, yet that would depend on what deal to be reached between OPEC and non-OPEC producers.

Meanwhile, the number of active drilling rigs in the United States decreased by three to 1,076 in the week ending Nov. 30.

The market is closely watching the planned OPEC meeting which is scheduled to hold on Thursday. Attending countries would agree some form of production cut in the meeting.

What's more, the market is focusing on the news of any meeting between officials from China and the United States aiming at seeking solution to the trade tensions after the Group of 20 (G20) Summit, held in Buenos Aires, Argentina from Friday to Saturday.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 07:16:16|Editor: Chengcheng

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MADRID, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- The Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) on Sunday won the most votes in the elections for the Andalusian Regional Parliament (Junta de Andalusia) but at the same time suffered a historic setback which means they will almost certainly relinquish their hold on power in the region in the south of Spain for the first time since 1978.

The PSOE claimed just under 28 percent of the votes to take 33 seats in the 109 seat assembly - 14 less than in the last elections held in 2015.

This result means that the PSOE, which has been badly damaged by the long running ERE corruption scandal, would not be able to form a coalition government even if it reached an agreement with the leftist coalition Adelante Andalusia (forward Andalusia), which won 17 seats, or the center-right party Ciudadanos, which won 21 seats.

Ciudadanos were one of the big winners on Sunday night, seeing their number of seats rise from 9 seats in 2015 to seriously challenge the right wing People's Party (PP).

The PP saw their representation in Andalusia fall from 33 seats down to 26 in what was viewed as the first big test for new PP leader Pablo Casado, who replaced Mariano Rajoy at the head of the party in July this year.

The PP has now seen its support halved since 2012 when they won 50 seats in the Andalusian assembly.

The biggest surprise of the night was the eruption of the extreme right wing party VOX, which received just 18,422 votes three years ago and claimed almost 400,000 on Sunday to win 12 seats in the regional parliament.

The results mean that the PP, Ciudadanos and VOX could in theory form a coalition government in the region. However, that would depend on whether the PP and Ciudadanos would be willing to reach an agreement with a party which campaigned with an openly xenophobic agenda and which on Sunday received the congratulations of French far-right leader Marie Le Pen.

The Andalusian elections are significant as they come just six months before Spain is due to celebrate elections for regional assemblies and town halls, as well as elections for the European Parliament.

The result is a setback for Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who has been in power in Madrid for six months and the PSOE's poor performance in its traditional stronghold will almost certainly convince him to try and see out his mandate until 2020 rather than call a general election to coincide with the European, regional and local elections next May.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 08:11:21|Editor: Yang Yi

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BEIJING, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping's upcoming visit to Panama will further accelerate the development of bilateral ties which has already got off to a strong start.

The bond between Chinese and Panamanians was forged over 160 years ago, when the first group of Chinese laborers arrived in Panama and made indelible contributions to the construction of the Panama Canal. But it was not until in 2017 that the old acquaintances were declared as formal friends based on the one-China policy.

According to Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela, establishing diplomatic ties with China was "the right thing to do." The decision was lauded by Xi as "a feat of a hero."

Bilateral cooperation has been efficient since then and initial achievements were made in the past a year and half.

Direct flight, with a stopover in Houston, has linked Beijing and Panama City. Feasibility studies are underway for building a rail line connecting the Panamanian capital with the west coast province of Chiriqui, to facilitate cargo shipments.

The two sides are negotiating on a free trade agreement, and stepping up efforts to both grease the wheels for the flow of goods, and ease visa application process in a reciprocal way to promote tourism.

Panama was also the first Latin American country to have signed a memorandum of understanding with China to promote the Belt and Road Initiative.

The driving force behind such a strong partnership is not only market demands, but also the common will for win-win development. Under such circumstances, Xi's historic visit to Panama is expected to further consolidate the political mutual trust between the two countries and inject fresh impetus into the bilateral relationship.

The year of 2018 carries a significant symbolic meaning for China as it marks the 40th anniversary of its reform and opening up endeavor. China now seeks deepened economic reform and is launching more measures to further open up to the world.

Both staunch supporters of free trade, China and Panama are eyeing a more prolific future.

Currently, dozens of Chinese companies are investing in Panama in areas such as ports and highway construction, energy, retail sales and automobiles.

Panama also expressed its willingness to play an ambitious role in expanding the Belt and Road Initiative -- which originally envisioned developing a modern time Silk Road to bolster trade between Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Europe -- to Latin America.

Xi's visit at this moment will create an opportunity for the two sides to nail down more practical cooperation plans under the framework of the initiative and beyond.

It is also expected that the two leaders will map out a clear blueprint for cooperation between the two countries.

With such proactive efforts and goodwill gesture, the China-Panama friendship will set off on a new course and usher in an even brighter new chapter.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 10:01:48|Editor: Chengcheng

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SYDNEY, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Sydney property values have fallen 9.5 percent since they peaked in July of last year, according to the latest figures from property-information group CoreLogic.

November represented the weakest monthly result for Sydney property since the global financial crisis with a 1.4 percent decline, ahead of 1 percent drop in Melbourne, the Australian Financial Review (AFR) reported on Monday.

"For Sydney, 1.4 percent is the biggest monthly fall we've seen so far this downturn," Corelogic head of research Tim Lawless told AFR.

"The last time we saw a bigger monthly fall was back in 2004 but that was only one month and otherwise you'd have to go back to 1989 to see values falling faster than this."

The city's largest downturn on record was in the recession between 1989 and 1991 and Lawless says it is likely that Sydney will "set a new record in terms of the magnitude of price decline and the length of decline."

A tighter lending environment is contributing to price declines with investor home loans growing at their slowest annual pace on record according to recent Reserve Bank of Australia figures.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 10:36:56|Editor: Chengcheng

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by Fone Ying Kyu

YANGON, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi's official visit to Nepal, which lasted from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1, has enhanced bilateral cooperation between Myanmar and Nepal, said a press release of the Myanmar Foreign Ministry issued late on Sunday after Suu Kyi returned from the visit.

During her Nepal visit, Aung San Suu Kyi met with Nepalese President Bidya Devi Bhandari and Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli.

Witnessed by the two countries' leaders, a memorandum of understanding was signed, according to which Myanmar and Nepal agreed to promote sustainable development of bilateral cooperation of trade and investment and to take steps for promoting strategic cooperation in potential sectors such as tourism, agro-tourism, agriculture, livestock and transport.

Bilateral talks between Aung San Suu Kyi and the two Nepalese leaders called for promotion of existing friendly relations and cooperation, enhancing bilateral high-level visit, sharing experiences on democratic transition and peace process, cooperation in tourism, setting up of direct air link to promote pilgrimage tour in 2020 Visit Nepal Year.

Suu Kyi extended an invitation to the Nepalese prime minister to pay an official visit to Myanmar.

The two countries also agreed to establish a Joint Consultative Mechanism at the level of secretary.

Besides attending the Nepal Chamber Expo-2018, which was organized with Myanmar as a partner country, Suu Kyi also attended th opening session of the Asia-Pacific Summit-2018 in Kathmandu which was jointly organized by the Government of Nepal and the Universal Peace Federation.

With the theme of "Addressing the Critical Challenges of Our Time: Interdependence, Mutual Prosperity and Universal Values" , the summit gathered 1,500 participants from 45 countries or regions from Asia-Pacific including heads of states and governments, lawmakers, eminent leaders, businessmen and leaders of civil society.

The summit concluded with the Kathmandu Declaration for Peace and Cooperation calling for tolerance, mutual understanding, accommodation and dialogue to resolve conflicts and ensure a more peaceful, equitable and inclusive world order.

At the invitation of the Nepalese Prime Minister, Suu Kyi made the first trip to Nepal in her capacity as state counselor since June 2014 when she visited Kathmandu as then opposition leader.

Suu Kyi's trip also followed that of President U Win Myint to Nepal in August this year on the occasion of the 4th Summit of Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) in the Nepalese capital.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 10:41:57|Editor: Chengcheng

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CANBERRA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Australia's leading business and energy groups have joined force to urge the government to abandon its proposed signature energy policy.

The Australian Energy Council (AEC), Australian Industry Group (AIG) and Business Council of Australia (BCA) have warned against the government's proposed "big stick" approach to energy legislation, saying it will "specifically discourage badly needed investment in the energy sector.

Under the policy, which was designed by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Energy Minister Angus Taylor, Australia's Treasurer would have the power to break up Australia's energy companies if they were found to have engaged in price gouging.

"The signatories to this statement are robustly opposed to the creation of unilateral divestment powers for the treasurer. Such discretionary and quasi-judicial powers represent deep and genuine sovereign risk," the lobby groups wrote in an open letter to the government on Monday.

"They are inconsistent with best practice for a modern economy, such as Australia's, and were specifically considered and rejected by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

"If enacted, these powers would cast a pall over investment in all sectors of the Australian economy and threaten the economic attractiveness of a country highly reliant on foreign investment."

They said that the proposed law would set "a dangerous precedent."

"Driving down prices for any market requires investment. Investors require clear, stable and predictable rules so that they have the necessary confidence to make those investment decisions," the group said.

"This legislation will only lead to increased investment uncertainty and prices."

Energy policy has been a major issue for the governing Liberal National Party (LNP) in this term of government.

Former PM Malcolm Turnbull was deposed by the party's conservative wing in August over his plan to embed an emissions reduction target within his own signature energy policy, the National Energy Guarantee (NEG).

Responding to the open letter, Taylor said on Monday that the "big stick" was necessary to "stop the bad behavior" of energy companies.

"It is no wonder the big energy companies are pushing back against the big stick legislation we are introducing to parliament," he said on Monday.

"They have been taking record profits from the wallets of hardworking Australians for years, and they don't want it to end."

"We hope we won't have to use them (the powers) but believe they're necessary to stop the bad behavior.

"It squarely focuses on pricing and supply, making sure there isn't price gouging and withdrawing of supply to drive up prices."

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, the man who would possess the new powers if the laws are passed by the parliament, said they would only be used in a way that benefits consumers.

The opposition Australian Labor Party (ALP) has ruled out support for the policy, making it unlikely that it will be passed through parliament.

ALP leader Bill Shorten in November announced his own signature energy policy, a 15 billion Australian dollar (11.03 billion U.S. dollar) program that included ambitious emissions and renewable energy targets.

Under the ALP plan, Australia would be committed to a 45-percent emissions reduction targets from 2005 levels and 50-percent renewable energy target by 2030.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 10:47:01|Editor: Chengcheng

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CANBERRA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has been urged to call an early election to mitigate his party's losses by his predecessor.

Former PM Malcolm Turnbull, who was deposed by the governing Liberal Party in August, on Monday launched his most significant intervention into party affairs since his downfall.

"My view is that it would be manifestly in the best interests and prospects of the Morrison government to go to the polls as soon as it can after the summer break," he told Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) radio.

"In fact my intention, and Scott's intention, prior to my removal, was to go to the polls on March 2."

Morrison announced in November that the federal budget would be delivered on April 2 and that a general election would follow soon afterwards.

However, Turnbull said that holding the federal election earlier could save the Liberal Party from losing the state election in New South Wales (NSW).

Opinion polls have revealed that the incumbent Liberal Party is headed towards defeat to the Australian Labor Party (ALP) in the NSW state election, which will take place on March 23, with voters citing the federal leadership crisis as a key reason for abandoning the party at the state level.

"There's a lot of concern in NSW Liberal circles that a very good, outstanding government led by (NSW Premier) Gladys Berejiklian is going to have its prospects of success diminished because of the brand damage to the Liberal Party caused by the leadership change in August," Turnbull said.

His warning came only one week after the ALP won a second term in a landslide election defeat of the Liberal Party in Victoria.

Morrison's Liberal-National Party Coalition (LNP), the governing coalition consisting of the Liberal Party and National Party, is trailing the ALP 45-55 on a two-party preferred basis and could win as few as 56 of 150 seats in the lower house of the Australian parliament at the general election.

Comparatively, the LNP trailed the ALP 49-51 on a two-party preferred basis when Turnbull was deposed and Morrison installed as leader, a decision the party said would give it a better chance of winning a third term in government.

Turnbull, who quit politics in August, on Monday said he would continue to be outspoken on party matters and refused to take the blame for his successor's "electoral woes."

"I am an Australian citizen, I'm a member of the Liberal Party, I am entitled to express my views," he said.

"If you get to the point where you're saying to me that I should never discuss political matters with anybody because they could be leaked to the media, that's a ridiculous proposition."

Responding to Turnbull's comments, Energy Minister Angus Taylor said he was unaware of the plan for a March federal election.

"Australians want governments to serve their term," he told Sky News Australia.

"What they want most of all is for us to unite and fight against a potential Labor government."

Morrison was set to return from the G20 summit in Buenos Aires on Monday afternoon.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 10:52:05|Editor: Chengcheng

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WASHINGTON, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- Democratic Senator Kamala Harris said she will make a decision about a potential 2020 U.S. presidential bid during this year's holiday season, Politico reported Sunday.

"It will ultimately be a family decision," Harris, who represents state of California, told MSNBC's "Morning Joe" co-host Mika Brzezinski during an event in San Francisco Saturday morning, according to Politico.

"And over the holiday," Harris said, "I will make that decision with my family."

Harris, 54, is the nation's first African-American woman to represent California in the U.S. Senate. She was elected in 2016.

Harris ranked fifth in a November POLITICO/Morning Consult poll of Democratic voters' preferred nominee to take on U.S. President Donald Trump's reelection bid.

Former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden ranked first, followed in order by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, Texas Representative Beto O'Rourke and Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 11:17:09|Editor: Chengcheng

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CANBERRA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- A ban on single-use plastic bags by Australia's two biggest supermarket chains has prevented 1.5 billion bags from entering the environment in less than half a year.

The National Retail Association (NRA) on Monday revealed that the consumption of single-use plastic bags has dropped 80 percent since Coles and Woolworths stopped distributing the bags in late July.

The decision was met with anger from some Australian shoppers, but David Stout, the manager of industry policy at the NRA, said the new figures justified the "brave" decision by the major chains.

According to the manager, Woolworths and Coles, whose parent companies Woolworths Limited and Wesfarmers are Australia's two biggest companies by revenue, had paved the way for small businesses to follow their lead.

"They're obviously seen as the product stewards so a lot of people will come back to them," the manager told the Australian Associated Press (AAP).

"Obviously the best thing for smaller businesses is to either engineer out the bag completely or have the customer pay. They should be able to consider that strategy without fear of backlash," the manager said.

"Everyone delivering things in a package need to take responsibility for what they deliver it in. I think there's going to be a lot more pressure on all of us to be more aware of what we consume," the manager added.

Rather than giving out single-use plastic bags for free, the two supermarkets now advise shoppers to bring their own reusable bags or make them purchase reusable bags.

Australia has legislated to phase out single-use plastic bags in every state and territory, except for New South Wales, the nation's most populous state.Samsung Group will donate W50 billion to help people in need as part of its year-end campaign (US$1=W1,122).

"Our seven affiliates will join forces to donate W50 billion to the Community Chest of Korea," a spokesman at Samsung said on Sunday.

The money will be used to support underprivileged youth, disabled people and other low-income families. Samsung has so far donated a total of W570 billion since 1999.

Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 13:02:26|Editor: mmm

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by Bruna Gama

RIO DE JANEIRO, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- Brazil-China relations will continue to advance after Jair Bolsonaro takes office as Brazil's new president on Jan. 1, a Brazilian expert told Xinhua.

Though Bolsonaro made some controversial statements during the presidential campaign, his actions during the presidency are likely to be more prudent, said Professor Severino Cabral, chairman of the Brazilian Institute for China and Asia Pacific Studies.

"The controversies before and after the election are different. It is one thing to make a controversial statement in the campaign to take a stance and win votes; it is another thing entirely to actually sit in the presidential chair and rule," Cabral said.

The professor believes that Brazil's relations with China are solid and that no government would wish to upset them.

"Brazil has great relations with both China and the United States, and that cannot change. It is structural. No Brazilian government would confront either China or the U.S., it would not be beneficial for the country," he added.

China is Brazil's largest trade partner and Brazil is China's major partner in Latin America. Cabral said that as the Brazil-China relationship is important for both sides, Bolsonaro's administration will not jeopardize it.

"If to us the relationship with China is vital, because of our trade balance, for China it is also important to keep a good relationship with Brazil," Cabral said. "If the relations are important to both sides, things must be carried on with prudence."

NATIONALIST DIRECTIONS

Cabral recalled that Bolsonaro's campaign motto "Brazil Above All" is likely to set the tone for his administration's foreign relations, with a centralized and nationalist direction.

"As (U.S. President Donald) Trump said 'America First,' Bolsonaro sets the tone with 'Brazil Above All.' It gives a direction to his foreign policy," he said. "It shows a need to take a proactive stance in the relations with all countries, to privilege Brazil's interests in all directions."

However, thinking of Brazil's interests first does not mean the China-Brazil relations will suffer a blow, he said. An evidence of the continued closeness between the two countries is the fact that the first diplomat to meet with the president-elect, just after the election, was China's Ambassador to Brazil Li Jinzhang.

"Just after the election, the president-elect's first diplomatic act was to meet with the Chinese ambassador. That showed that campaign rhetoric was one thing and the position of a president-elect was another," Cabral said.

About the approximation with the United States and the European Union (EU), which has been in effect in the current administration and is likely to be maintained by the Bolsonaro government, Cabral stressed that tightening relations with the Western powers does not mean the relations with China or with blocs like BRICS and Mercosur will be left unattended.

Bolsonaro will have many internal challenges to deal with, from the problematic finances to industrial restructuring, and collaboration with China can be a great assistance to the handling of these challenges.

"Brazil needs to integrate its region and create new development areas in the country ... China is a country of continental dimensions, just like Brazil, and also faces the challenge of spreading its economic development through the entire country," he stressed.

"It is more or less like our own challenge, to elevate the standards of life and development over the next decades," he said.

Brazil could build new, innovative ties not only with China, but also with its neighbors, facing the challenges of globalization and domestic development, Cabral said.

There are competent people in the new administration, such as those from the Foreign Ministry and trade organizations, who are very experienced about relations with China and can help advise the president on this front, he noted.

In addition, Vice President-elect General Hamilton Mourao has showed more pragmatic views in a recently published interview. He said the Bolsonaro government does not intend to cause any conflicts with China, while stressing the importance of the Asian country and its weight on Brazil's foreign trade.

Cabral advised Brazil's government to be inspired by China and build long-term plans, like the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, to develop and advance the country.

"Brazil must have a vision for its future and that does not represent a conflict with China's interests," he said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 13:12:27|Editor: Li Xia

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Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan are warmly welcomed by Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela and his wife Lorena Castillo Garcia in Panama City Dec. 2, 2018. President Xi Jinping arrived here on Sunday for a state visit to Panama. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

PANAMA CITY, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived here on Sunday for a state visit to Panama, the first of its kind since China and the Central American country established diplomatic relations in June 2017.

Upon their arrival at the airport, Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan were warmly received by Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela and his wife Lorena Castillo Garcia with a grand welcoming ceremony.

Accompanied by Varela, Xi reviewed the guard of honor.

To greet the honored Chinese guests, a group of local people performed dances with distinctive ethnic features. Children waved flowers and national flags of the two countries.

Xi said this is his first visit to Panama, and also the very first time a president of the People's Republic of China to visit the country in history.

On behalf of the Chinese people, he expressed sincere greetings and good wishes to the Panamanian people.

He said with the establishment of diplomatic relations one and a half years ago on the basis of the one-China principle, the two countries' interactions lasting more than 160 years have "turned over a new chapter."

China-Panama relations have started strong with fruitful results in cooperation in various fields, he noted.

Facts have proven that forging diplomatic relations fits the fundamental and long-term interests of the two peoples, he said, adding that there is great potential for future cooperation.

He voiced the expectation that his upcoming talks with Varela will draw blueprint for the development of bilateral relations in the long run, boost mutually beneficial cooperation, promote common development, and benefit the two countries and their people.

Xi arrived in Panama City after wrapping up a trip to Argentina, where he attended the 13th Group of 20 (G20) summit and paid a state visit.

Xi's four-nation trip has also brought him to Spain. He will visit Portugal after Panama.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 13:47:31|Editor: Yang Yi

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PANAMA CITY, Dec. 2 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Panama will mark a milestone in bilateral ties, Panamanian Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Luis Miguel Hincapie has said.

The visit is the first by a Chinese head of state since the two countries established diplomatic ties in June 2017.

In a recent interview with Xinhua, Hincapie said the visit, which started Sunday, shows China attaches importance to its ties with the Central American country.

Xi's visit will put Panama "on the map," he added.

"What we want is ... to serve as the gateway to Latin America for China ... to make the most of our air and maritime connections to the rest of the region so ... Chinese companies can set up shops here and distribute their products and cater to the Latin American market," said Hincapie.

Xi arrived in Panama City late Sunday as part of his ongoing European and Latin American tour from Nov. 27 to Dec. 5, which also includes visits to Spain, Argentina and Portugal.

The president's visit to Panama will help cement the relatively new ties between the two countries, said Hincapie.

Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela paid a state visit to China in November last year.

"We have to see it (the relationship with China) as a benefit to all, to the country," said Hincapie.

Since establishing diplomatic ties, Panama and China have signed a series of cooperation agreements in diverse fields.

"We needed to get closer. The country (Panama) had been awaiting it for many years and now that we are there. We should look ahead," said Hincapie.

Establishing ties with China was a strategic political move that provided Panama with another important cooperation partner, especially in multilateral fora, he said.

While it is still too early to see the bilateral ties yielding results in the economic sectors, the relationship has already had a positive impact, including the first direct flight between China and Panama, with a technical stopover in Houston, and the arrival of Chinese companies in Panama, said Hincapie.

Panama is not so much a producer country as it is a service provider, said Hincapie. Its location between North and South America has made it a hub for airlines, while the Panama Canal serves global trade by offering a shortcut connecting the Pacific Ocean with the Atlantic Ocean.

Panama is also keen on making its geographic advantages part of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative.

Such an initiative, along with China's vision of a community with a shared future for mankind, "shows China wants to be part of the integration of the world," the Panamanian official said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 14:02:34|Editor: mmm

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BEIJING, Dec.3 (Xinhua) -- Some 286 overseas institutions have received quotas amounting to 100.56 billion U.S. dollars in the end of November under China's Qualified Foreign Institutional Investors (QFII) program, up 300 million U.S. dollars from the end of October, official data showed.

As of the end of November, the quota in the RMB Qualified Foreign Institutional Investors (RQFII) program came in at 642.67 billion yuan (about 92.56 billion U.S. dollars), according to the State Administration of Foreign Exchange.

China's currency, the yuan, is convertible for trade purposes under the current account, while the capital account, which covers portfolio investment and borrowing, is largely run by the state in an effort to manage capital flows in and out of the country.

The QFII and RQFII programs, introduced in 2003 and 2011 respectively, allow overseas institutional investors to move money into China's capital account to encourage controlled flows.

The RQFII program is currently open to countries and regions including the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Britain, Singapore, France, the Republic of Korea, Germany, Qatar, Canada, Australia and Luxembourg.

The Qualified Domestic Institutional Investor program, a scheme that allows domestic investors to access overseas assets, remained at 103.2 billion U.S. dollars. No new quotas have been granted for five months in a row. (1 U.S. dollar = 6.9431 yuan)Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 14:22:37|Editor: Chengcheng

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SEOUL, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- South Korean prosecutors sought warrants Monday to arrest two former top court justices over allegations that they were involved in a judiciary power abuse scandal believed to implicate a former Supreme Court chief justice.

The Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office requested writs against Park Byong-dae and Ko Young-han who were interrogated by prosecutors last month, according to local media.

It was the first time in the country's history that arrest warrants were sought against former top court judges. The decision on whether to arrest them was forecast to be made Wednesday.

Park and Ko faced multiple criminal charges, including abuse of power and obstruction of justice. They both allegedly denied any wrongdoing.

Park, 61, served as the chief of the top court's administrative affairs body for two years through February 2016. He was accused of having engaged in the so-called "trial dealings," in which the Supreme Court ruled in the politically and diplomatically sensitive trials in favor of the policy directions of impeached President Park Geun-hye.

In return for it, then Supreme Court Chief Justice Yang Sung-tae allegedly sought to win the Park Geun-hye's approval for the establishment of a separate court of appeals, known to have been a long dream of Yang.

Ko, 63, who succeeded Park as the chief of the Supreme Court's administrative body from February 2016 to May 2017, was also charged with abusing judiciary power to intervene in the rulings by lower courts.

The trials, which were used as bargaining chips in the dealings with Park Geun-hye's Blue House, included the damages lawsuit filed by four South Korean victims against a Japanese steelmaker for their forced labor during World War II.

A South Korean high court judged in 2013 that Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corp. should pay 100 million won (88,000 U.S. dollars) per plaintiff in compensation for the forced labor.

However, the final ruling by the Supreme Court had been delayed amid allegations that Park's Blue House called for the delay on concern about frayed ties between Seoul and Tokyo.

The Supreme Court under a new chief justice, who was named by incumbent President Moon Jae-in, resumed hearings on the damages suit in August this year, delivering the final verdict in late October to order the Japanese steel firm to pay the 100-million-won compensation to the forced labor victims.

The highest court ruled in favor of another forced labor victims late last month, ordering Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to pay reparations of 80 million won (71,000 U.S. dollars) to 120 million won (109,000 U.S. dollars) to each of 10 victims, who were forced into labor by Japan, and a victim's family member.

Lim Jong-hun, who served as deputy chief of the top court's administrative body for two years through August last year, was put under custody and indicted by prosecutors last month for his involvement in the judicial power abuse scandal.

Prosecutors were expected to summon the former Supreme Court chief justice for questioning later this month.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 14:32:40|Editor: Chengcheng

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GHAZNI, Afghanistan, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Up to 30 militants have been killed and several injured as cleanup operations are underway in Rasana area of Jaghori district in Afghanistan's eastern Ghazni province, said a statement of national army on Monday.

According to the statement, the cleanup operations were launched Sunday and so far, the government forces have recaptured several villages.

Taliban militants who captured vast areas in Jaghori district early November, have not commented on the report.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 14:52:48|Editor: Chengcheng

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HANOI, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- A vice chairwoman of a ward in Vietnam's central highlands Gia Lai province was shot dead by a military officer on Monday, local media reported.

The vice head of a military board of the ward used an AK rifle to kill the vice chairwoman of the ward's People's Council, before shooting himself, online newspaper VnExpress reported.

At a national flag-saluting ceremony at the office of Doan Ket ward in Ayun Pa town, the vice head of the military board of the ward fired several shots into the sky, controlled the 31-year-old vice chairwoman, shot her in the dead, and shot himself, the report said.

The shooter was seriously injured. Before the incident, the shooter and the victim got along well with each other, the provincial police said.

At the shooting scene, local police found the rifle and a handgun, and concluded that six bullets had been fired.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 14:57:51|Editor: xuxin

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KABUL, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Afghan government forces' crackdown on insurgents have left 80 Taliban fighters dead in the northern Balkh and eastern Ghazni provinces over the past two days, officials said Monday.

A total of 50 militants have been killed in the restive districts of Chamtal, Charbolak and Dawlat Abad in the northern Balkh province and more than 70 others injured, provincial government spokesman Munir Ahmad Farhad said.

Several bunkers and weapon caches of the insurgents have also been destroyed, the official said.

Without hinting at possible casualties of the security forces, the official said the operations would last until the insurgents are wiped out from the area.

Meanwhile, up to 30 militants have been killed and several injured as cleanup operations are underway in Rasana area of Jaghori district in the eastern Ghazni province, said a statement of national army released on Monday.

According to the statement, the cleanup operations were launched Sunday and so far, the government forces have also recaptured several villages.

Taliban militants intensified activities over the past couple of months and claimed to have gained grounds in some places. They have yet to make comment on the claims made by the officials.

Afghan observers believe that the warring sides in Afghanistan would do their best to gain more grounds and consolidate positions ahead of snowfall and chilly winter in the mountainous country.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 15:12:53|Editor: xuxin

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SEOUL, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's air force on Monday launched a five-day air combat readiness drill after the halt of the joint air combat training with the United States this year, local media reported citing Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS).

According to JCS, the air drill was aimed at maintaining the air force's combat readiness and enhance the operational capability of pilots.

Details on the drill were not known, including the number of soldiers and aircraft to be mobilized.

It came as South Korea and the United States decided to skip the Vigilant Ace joint air combat training this year in a bid to help talks to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula go smoothly.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 15:27:56|Editor: xuxin

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JERUSALEM, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that he will meet U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels on Monday evening to discuss regional issues.

A statement issued by the Israeli Prime Minister's Office said Netanyahu will depart to Belgium later in the day, adding that the meeting was set last week.

The statement said that the prime minister and the secretary of state will discuss "regional developments," and that Netanyahu will be accompanied by the head of Israel's Mossad national intelligence agency, the head of the National Security Council, and the government's Military Secretary.

Pompeo visited Israel last April, shortly after his appointment.

In a meeting between him and Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Pompeo referred to U.S. President Donald Trump's unpublished plan for Israeli-Palestinian conflict, saying that the United States is committed to a lasting peace.

They also discussed the ongoing war in Syria and Israel's demand that Iran will not establish permanent military bases in Israel's northern neighbor.

Israeli media widely reported that these issues are expected to be discussed in their meeting today.Korea managed to post a seventh month of export growth in November to top US$50 billion, but the pace slowed.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy on Saturday said exports in November totaled $51.9 billion, the third highest ever. But shipments to China fell 2.5 percent on-year to $13.7 billion, the first time in 25 months that exports to China fell.

Semiconductor exports totaled $10.7 billion, up 11.6 percent compared to November 2017, but that was the lowest growth rate in 24 months. Car exports dwindled after rising temporarily in October.

Korea's cumulative exports from January to November stood at $557.2 billion, up 6.2 percent on-year, but the increase was slower than the 16.5-percent growth last year.

Joo Won at the Hyundai Research Institute said, "China's economic slowdown is more serious than expected, which raises the possibility of exports declining even further next year."Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 16:33:09|Editor: xuxin

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MANILA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is likely to extend martial law in the entire Mindanao island in the southern Philippines, his chief legal counsel said on Monday.

Philippine Chief Presidential Legal Counsel and Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte "may be persuaded to go on to approve the recommendation" of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to place Mindanao under martial rule until Dec. 31, 2019.

In December last year, Duterte formally requested the Congress to extend the martial law in the entire Mindanao until Dec. 31, 2018 for the government to "quell completely" the threat of terrorism in the southern Philippine region.

Panelo said Duterte will consider the safety of the people in Mindanao in deciding whether to extend martial law for another year.

"If the threat remains and there is still an ongoing rebellion, then, constitutionally, the basis would be valid for the continuation of martial law," Panelo said in a news briefing at the presidential palace.

On Monday, AFP Chief of Staff Carlito Galvez said the AFP is strongly recommending the extension of martial law "so that we can substantially make a significant dent on terrorists."

"There is really a clamor for the extension considering the terrorists are still lurking in the area," Galvez told reporters, stressing the need "to constrict and limit the maneuver space of the terrorist to the maximum."

"We have a very weak terrorism law so martial law is needed to completely defeat terrorism," Galvez added.

Duterte declared on May 23, 2017 the whole Mindanao region under martial law after the ISIS-inspired Maute Group and Abu Sayyaf Group attacked Marawi City, sparking a bitter fighting that killed more than 1,200 people.

The Philippine Congress approved in December 2017 the one-year extension of martial law, which would expire on Dec. 31, 2018.

The Marawi conflict in May 2017 caused large numbers of people to flee, with at least 360,000 people displaced, their homes destroyed and no means of livelihood.

As of October 2018, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in the Philippines said over 73,000 people remain displaced, a majority coming from Marawi City's most affected areas.

According to Philippine government projections, it will take three to five years to reconstruct this part of the city.

The Philippine Department of Social Welfare and Development estimates that over 230,000 people have so far returned to Marawi City in 72 villages that were partially damaged by the conflict.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 17:35:37|Editor: xuxin

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Freshly painted mikes are kept in the sun for drying in Dhaka, capital of Bangladesh, on Dec. 2, 2018. Workers have been putting in overtime to make mikes ahead of the general elections slated for Dec. 30. (Xinhua)A file photo taken on February 6, 2017 shows the Ras Laffan Industrial City, Qatar's principal site for production of liquefied natural gas and gas-to-liquid, administrated by Qatar Petroleum, some 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of the capital Doha. (AFP photo)

DOHA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Qatar will withdraw from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) as of January 2019, said a report by Qatar-based English newspaper Gulf Times on Monday.

The decision came after Qatar reviewed ways to enhance its role internationally and plan long-term strategy, said the report, quoting Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi.

"Qatar has decided to withdraw its membership from OPEC effective January 2019 and this decision was communicated to OPEC this morning," he said at a press conference.

Qatar will still attend an OPEC meeting in Vienna this week, he added.

A file photo taken on February 6, 2017 shows the Ras Laffan Industrial City, Qatar's principal site for production of liquefied natural gas and gas-to-liquid, administrated by Qatar Petroleum, some 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of the capital Doha. (AFP photo)

He stressed that Doha will continue to abide by all its commitments like any other non-OPEC oil producer.

The decision was not linked to a political and economic boycott of Qatar imposed since June 2017 by OPEC's de facto leader Saudi Arabia and three other Arab states, he added.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 17:23:25|Editor: Li Xia

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GUANGZHOU, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The two-story Western-style buildings along a country road give Rulin village in south China's Guangdong Province an exotic taste.

Its nickname, "Panama Village," exemplifies the ties between it and the Latin American country oceans away.

Rulin, along with several other villages in Huadu District of Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong, has been the major source of Chinese laborers sent to Panama to work on railroad and canal construction projects since the mid-1850s.

Today, around 7 percent of Panama's population of 4.3 million has Chinese ancestry, and many can trace their origin to villages in southern China.

With diplomatic ties between China and Panama established in June 2017, and a free trade agreement (FTA) currently under negotiation, exchanges are continuing to grow between Chinese Panamanians and their ancestral homes.

"Ask anyone here, it's almost certain they'll tell you they have relatives in Panama," said Liao Yundong, former head of Rulin village, "Both my daughters went to Panama after graduating high school and have settled down there."

Enrique Lau Cortes, whose father arrived in Panama more than a century ago when the Panama Canal started operation, set foot on his ancestral home in Huadu District in September for the first time.

"The Chinese cultural values taught by my father and the Panamanian characteristics inherited from my mother both run in my blood," said Cortes, who is president of the International Affairs Research Association of Panama.

"Traditions are never lost, and cultural connections bring us closer together," said Cortes during a tour of his ancestral temple in the district.

Some Chinese couples in Panama choose to send their children back to study in their home villages.

Zhu Bingshen from Rulin Village now looks after his grandson who studies at a local elementary school. His son went to Panama at 17, settled down and runs a supermarket there.

"They want their children to go to a primary school here and learn about China and Chinese culture first, and then go to school in Panama," said Zhu.

Rulin Elementary School was first set up in 1948 and was rebuilt at the original site with the support of overseas Chinese in Panama in 1995.

"The parents send their children here to study because they don't want them to forget their roots," said Zhuo Weiliang, deputy head of the school.

Eight overseas children now study in the school. Zhuo said the school has offered flexible program durations ranging from two or three months to a whole semester for children from Panama.

Local children have partnered with their overseas peers to help each other learn Chinese and English, said Li Jinlong, a teacher in the school.

Unlike their ancestors who were mainly laborers in Panama, most overseas Chinese in the country today run businesses, contributing to and benefiting from stronger bilateral trade ties in recent years.

China is the world's second largest user of the Panama Canal, and Chinese companies like Huawei and China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd. have set up their Latin American headquarters in the country.

The FTA between both sides is expected to further enhance cooperation in areas such as goods trade, service trade, financial services, investment, rules of origin, and customs procedures, according to China's Ministry of Commerce.

"Latin America and the Caribbean play an important role in boosting global connectivity under China's Belt and Road Initiative," said Wang Yiwei, head of the International Affairs Institute of Renmin University of China. "There is a lot for both sides to work on."Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 17:28:27|Editor: Yamei

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ANKARA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Turkish Foreign Ministry on Sunday issued a travel advisory for citizens traveling to France, citing the ongoing violent "Yellow Vests" protests in Paris and other cities.

In a warning published on its official website, the ministry advised Turkish citizens who live in France or will travel to the country to avoid areas of demonstrations and stay away from dangerous places.

The movement "Yellow Vests," which aims to express the anger of the people against rising fuel prices, launched the third day of mobilization on Saturday in Paris and several areas in France.

The planned peaceful demonstration evolved into an act of unprecedented violence in Paris, causing many casualties in the conflict.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 17:48:31|Editor: Yamei

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WELLINGTON, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The retail fuel market will be the first Commerce Commission market study, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday.

"I have previously voiced my concern about the high cost of fuel, because it is a core expense for consumers and businesses," Ardern said in a statement, adding the government is committed to easing financial pressure on families.

"New Zealanders deserve peace of mind that the price they are paying at the pump is fair," the prime minister said, adding, "At the moment we can't definitively say whether that is in fact the case across New Zealand so this is a market that most certainly warrants a full investigation."

Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Kris Faafoi said that while there were several possible markets mooted for consideration, the retail fuel market clearly met the test for investigations.

"Simply, it's in the public interest to ensure people and business aren't paying too much for fuel. There are existing indications of competition problems in the retail fuel market that are of concern to me, such as the more than doubling of petrol and diesel importer margins over the past decade," Faafoi said.

It is also a market that is hugely important to consumers and to the economy, given the extent to which people rely on fuel and the size of the market, with around 6 billion liters of petrol and diesel consumed for land transport use annually, he said.

The Commerce Commission will be undertaking a full and thorough analysis into competition in the retail fuel market so as to better understand the market conditions and determine whether consumers' interests are being protected at present, the minister said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 18:03:36|Editor: Yamei

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SYDNEY, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Two armed men have surrendered after barricading themselves inside a unit and firing a shot at the police in Brisbane, Australia on Monday.

The six-hour siege ended as the armed men handed themselves over to the police with no other shots fired.

The unit was located close to central Brisbane, causing major traffic disruption as police locked down the area.

Inspector Tony Ridge said the police were fired on when they first attended the scene on a routine investigation at 11:00 a.m. local time, causing them to declare an emergency and shut down traffic in the area.

Several people were evacuated and ferry travel on the nearby Brisbane River was suspended.

The men were reportedly only renting the unit overnight and police said they have recovered several firearms from the property.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 18:13:44|Editor: Li Xia

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Survivor of the Nanjing Massacre Shi Xiuying, 92, pays tribute to the victims of the Nanjing Massacre before the memorial hall wall where the victims' names are engraved during commemoration activities in Nanjing, capital of east China's Jiangsu Province, Dec. 3, 2018. The Nanjing Massacre took place when Japanese troops captured the city on Dec. 13, 1937. Over six weeks, they killed 300,000 Chinese civilians and unarmed soldiers. In February 2014, China's top legislature designated December 13 as the national memorial day for victims of the Nanjing Massacre. Starting Monday, family members of the victims began a series of commemoration activities such as laying flowers, burning incense and reading letters in front of the Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders. (Xinhua/Sun Can)

NANJING, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Standing in front of the Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders, Shi Xiuying sobbed and read a letter dedicated to the family members she lost in the atrocity.

"Dear dad, brother, it's been 81 years since we've been apart, but I have been talking to you in my heart, can you hear me?" Shi read.

Starting Monday, family members of the victims of the massacre began a series of commemoration activities such as laying flowers, burning incense and reading letters before the memorial hall wall where the victims' names are engraved in Nanjing, capital of east China's Jiangsu Province.

Shi, 92, said her father was killed by Japanese invaders 81 years ago.

Another survivor, Yu Changxiang, 91, said his father was killed, but his body was never found.

"The name on the wall is the only way we can mourn him," Yu said.

"My father always says we should tell the history of the Nanjing Massacre to young people so we will remember the past and cherish our present life," said Yu Huiru, daughter of Yu Changxiang.

"So many people lost their lives, relatives, and families in the Nanjing Massacre. We must remember the trauma the Chinese people suffered, and cherish the hard-won peace," said Lu Jinghan, a student from No.1 primary school affiliated to Nanjing Xiaozhuang University.

The Nanjing Massacre took place when Japanese troops captured the city on Dec. 13, 1937. Over six weeks, they killed 300,000 Chinese civilians and unarmed soldiers.

In February 2014, China's top legislature designated December 13 as the national memorial day for victims of the Nanjing Massacre. Family members of the victims also started to hold commemoration activities at the memorial hall in December the same year.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 18:53:52|Editor: xuxin

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PHNOM PENH, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia is reviewing its law in order to allow banned opposition politicians to return to politics, the government said in a statement on Monday.

A total of 118 former Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) senior leaders have been barred from joining politics for five years since November 2017 after the CNRP was dissolved by the Supreme Court following the arrest of party leader Kem Sokha over "treason" charges.

The Phnom Penh Municipal Court granted bail to Sokha in September, allowing him to be transferred from the prison to his house in Phnom Penh on health reasons. However, the 65-year-old former opposition leader was put under court surveillance with some conditions.

"In order to further promote democracy and the rule of law, the National Assembly is reviewing legal provisions to enable individuals who were banned from politics to resume their political activities," the statement said.

It once again defended the July 29 general election that saw the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) of Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen won all 125 National Assembly seats.

"The election of the sixth legislature of the National Assembly on 29 July 2018 was conducted in a free, fair, peaceful and transparent manner," the statement said.

It added that 20 registered political parties contested in the voting, and 83.02 percent of the registered voters cast their ballots.Kenyan students receive scholarships awarded by Chinese company KEDA. (Photo by KEDA)

NAIROBI, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Shirleen Leyian grew up in Kenya's semi-arid Kajiado County where nomadic lifestyle that has been practiced by her community for centuries placed enormous hurdles on children and youth yearning for education.

The 22-year-old information technology (IT) student at a private university in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, was among 35 young learners from the nomadic Maasai community who were on November 30 awarded scholarships by Chinese tiles manufacturing firm, Twyford Ceramics Ltd, to enable them to complete their studies.

Leyian was in buoyant mood as she joined her peers at the podium to receive cheques from Twyford ceramics Ltd executives to cater for tuition fees and other incidentals during the forthcoming semester.

"We are grateful to Twyford Ceramics Ltd for helping us realize our dreams. The company has catered for a huge portion of tuition fees for two consecutive years since I joined the university. It feels good," said Leyian.

She defied entrenched negative stereotypes to pursue post-secondary education at a private university and is determined to sharpen her skills in information technology as a means to secure gainful employment in the near future.

"I look forward to becoming an accomplished IT professional and promise to give back to the community I come from by mentoring young girls. These girls will be happy to have a role model who has broken the glass ceiling in a profession that has traditionally been reserved for the male gender," said Leyian.

Twyford ceramics Ltd, through its local subsidiary KEDA (Kenya) Ceramics Co Ltd, in 2017 launched the Maisha Bora (Healthy Life) scholarship to help cater for tuition fees for under-privileged young learners from villages adjacent to the company's manufacturing plant, which is located about 60 kilometers southeast of the Kenyan capital, Nairobi.

Johnstone Mpuki, community liaison at KEDA Ceramics Ltd, said that the scholarship program has transformed the lives of young learners from a community that place little premium on education due to outdated beliefs, poverty and ignorance.

"Our target has been children from poor families whose dream for quality education has often been shattered due to abject poverty and sometimes harmful cultural practices like early marriages," said Mpuki.

"The financial assistance has inspired these children to study with zeal in the hope that they will become successful individuals later in life," he added.

In the last two years, KEDA ceramics Ltd has awarded 100 U.S dollars to each scholarship beneficiary enrolled in high school while the ones in mid-level colleges and universities have been receiving 200 U.S dollars and 300 U.S dollars respectively.

Stanley Sipoi, an 18 years old high school graduate who aspires to pursue law in the university, said the financial support from the largest tiles manufacturing company in east and central Africa has been a game changer.

"My parents struggled hard to educate me and my siblings until Twyford ceramics Ltd came on board to ease that burden. I will be forever grateful for the company for supporting my high school education for two years and I promise to deliver positive results," Sipoi told Xinhua.

He vowed to utilize his success in school to mentor young boys in his native village.

KEDA Ceramics Ltd, like other Chinese enterprises based in Kenya, has been at the forefront of transforming livelihoods of communities at its backyard through provision of clean water, tarmacking of roads and award of scholarships to bright but needy young learners.

Li Ruiqin, managing director of KEDA Ceramics Co Ltd, said that the aim of the two years old scholarship program is to help financially constrained children and youth from Kajiado County realize their dreams through formal education.

Elected leaders from Kajiado County who attended the award ceremony for scholarships to help cater for tuition fees for students from poor families hailed the gesture saying it will help alleviate high illiteracy levels in the community.

"We are ready to partner with both local and foreign investors to ensure no child is denied education because of poverty," said Francis Kaesha, minority leader in the county government of Kajiado.

Silantoi Teto, a 16 years old form three student in a local high school whose parents are herders, said the financial support from KEDA Ceramics Ltd has motivated her to put more effort in her school work and hopefully join university where she aspires to pursue civil engineering.

"Having a philanthropic organization cater for a significant portion of my school fees in the last two years has been refreshing and I'm determined to pass my final exams and join the university to study civil engineering," said Silantoi.

The bubbly youngster said her ultimate goal is to utilize skills learnt in school to mentor girls from remote outposts who often lack a role model in the world of academia, careers and business whom they can emulate.A North Korean soldier on Saturday morning defected to the South by crossing the military demarcation line on the eastern frontline by sauntering past an unmanned guard post.

It was the first defection by a North Korean soldier since the two sides demolished or removed 11 guard posts each in the demilitarized zone under a September military agreement to ease tensions.

The defection took place near Goseong, Gangwon Province where the North demolished its guard post but the South decided to preserve one for its historical value but left it unmanned.

The South Korean military "found a North Korean soldier heading south after crossing the MDL... around 7:56 a.m. Saturday," the Joint Chiefs of Staff here said Sunday.

No shots were fired, nor was any unusual North Korean activity reported. The soldier "is presumed to be in late teens or early 20s," a government official here said.

A source said, "Border guards first spotted the defector in an area south of the guard post just a few hundreds of meters north of the wire fence." "If the post had been manned we could have spotted him much sooner," a military officer said.

In October 2012, a North Korean soldier crossed the three-layered barbed wire fence along the border and knocked on the door of South Korean border guards' barracks. Last year, 15 North Koreans defected to the South on different occasions across the MDL.

Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 18:58:53|Editor: Yamei

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CHANGSHA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- An exhibition showcasing the works of Chen Xichuan, a 90-year-old Chinese art teacher, and 227 of his students is ongoing in the Li Zijian Art Museum in Changsha, Hunan Province.

A total of 679 selective pieces are on display at the exhibition, including 28 drawings by Master Chen Xichuan. The exhibits cover a great variety of genres ranging from Chinese traditional ink-and-wash painting, oil painting, printmaking and sculpture, to audiovisual art, industrial and architectural design as well as installation art.

The exhibition aims to showcase China's artistic development over the past 40 years, and pay tribute to Chen Xichuan, the art teacher who has been "working on the front line of art education," said Li Zijian, U.S.-based Chinese painter and organizer of the exhibition. Li, also one of Master Chen's students, has won fame for his oil painting "The Nanjing Massacre."

Chen Xichuan began his artistic career at the Luxun Academy of Fine Arts and the Central Academy of Fine Arts in the 1950s, where he pursued studies under the guidance of master painters at the time, such as Wu Zuoren and Ai Zhongxin.

Upon graduation, Chen taught at Inner Mongolia Normal University, where he is regarded as a pioneer and leading promoter of Inner Mongolia's art education. He later returned to his hometown in Shaoyang, Hunan, to work as an art tutor.

Chen is said to have taught more than 10,000 students in his teaching career, of whom more than 3,000 were admitted to prestigious art academies in the country and worldwide.

"Although I am not rich, I feel like the wealthiest man in the world. My greatest treasure is my students," said the nonagenarian at the opening ceremony of the exhibition on Dec. 1. "It is to my great joy that many village boys and girls who used to work in the farm fields or on the back of water buffalos have now become college professors, painters, designers, entrepreneurs... I feel immensely gratified and proud when I think of them."

The exhibition, titled "Master Xichuan and His Students," will last until Jan. 6, 2019.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 19:13:59|Editor: Li Xia

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BEIJING, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping's speech at the symposium to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the birth of Liu Shaoqi has been published by the People's Publishing House.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivered the speech in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Nov. 23.

The booklet is available at Xinhua Bookstore outlets across the country from Monday.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 19:19:00|Editor: xuxin

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PHNOM PENH, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen will pay an official visit to neighboring Laos from Dec. 5 to 6 to further strengthen bilateral ties and cooperation, said a foreign ministry's statement on Monday.

During the visit, the Cambodian prime minister will hold official talks with Lao Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith to explore the possibilities to further strengthen and expand the existing bilateral cooperation for tangible benefits of the peoples of the two countries, the statement said.

It added that the two leaders will also exchange views on regional and international issues of common concerns and mutual interests.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 19:34:04|Editor: Li Xia

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Chinese Ambassador to Portugal Cai Run(L) receives an interview with Xinhua in Lisbon, Portugal, on Nov. 28, 2018. The upcoming state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Portugal is historic and a milestone in the development of China-Portugal relations, which will open a new chapter for bilateral ties, said Cai Run. (Xinhua/Zhang Liyun)

LISBON, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The upcoming state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Portugal is historic and a milestone in the development of China-Portugal relations, which will open a new chapter for bilateral ties, said Chinese Ambassador to Portugal Cai Run.

It will be the first state visit by a Chinese head of state to Portugal in eight years and also the first visit to Portugal since Xi took office as Chinese president, Cai said in an interview with Xinhua.

The friendship between China and Portugal has a long history with more than 500 years of exchanges, Cai said.

The ancient Maritime Silk Road linked the people of China and Portugal closely, which helped them understand each other and deepen friendship, the Chinese envoy said.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1979, the friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two countries in various fields have maintained a steady and healthy development, he said.

Sino-Portuguese relations are at their best in history, he said, adding that high-level exchanges between the two countries have been frequent and mutual political trust has deepened continuously.

In recent years, China-Portugal economic and trade cooperation has continued to deepen and achieved fruitful results. China is Portugal's largest trading partner in Asia, while Portugal is one of the main destinations for Chinese investment within the European Union (EU).

Chinese and Portuguese companies have joined hands to develop markets in Portuguese-speaking countries, as well as in Europe and America, Cai said, adding there are great potential and broad prospect for them to further cooperation in third-party markets.

Bilateral trade value between China and Portugal reached about 5.6 billion U.S. dollars in 2017.

Preliminary figures show that China's investment in Portugal has exceeded 9 billion euros (about 10.2 billion U.S. dollars), involving sectors such as energy, electricity, banking, insurance and health care.

Portugal's investment in China is also growing steadily. At present, the Portuguese government is actively preparing for the issuance of renminbi-denominated bonds in China. Portugal is expected to become the first euro zone country to issue such bonds.

Cultural exchange and education cooperation between China and Portugal have also been flourishing.

More than 250,000 Chinese tourists visited Portugal last year, an increase of over 40 percent year-on-year. At the same time, the Portuguese people's interest in Chinese and Chinese culture has become increasingly stronger. The number of Portuguese tourists visiting China so far this year has increased by 16 percent compared with the same period last year.

The number of students studying Chinese in Portugal has increased year by year, while the number of Chinese students studying in Portugal is also on the rise, according to Cai.

The pragmatic cooperation between China and Portugal is in full swing and is becoming a model for countries that seek mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation in bilateral ties, Cai said.

The cooperation between China and Portugal under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has continuously made new progress, he said.

Portugal is an important partner in the construction of BRI and one of the founding members of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

Both Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Prime Minister Antonio Costa made it clear that Portugal supports the BRI and hopes that China and Portugal could expand pragmatic cooperation in various fields under the BRI framework, Cai said.

Portugal is an important member of the EU and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries. It has always played a positive role in promoting China-EU relations and the relations between China and Portuguese-speaking countries, Cai said.

The Chinese ambassador believes that President Xi's state visit to Portugal will certainly inject new impetus to the development of China-EU relations and will expand new space for the cooperations under BRI.

"Bosom friends make distance disappear," Cai said, quoting a Chinese poem. He said that even though China and Portugal are located far apart, the two peoples love peace, hold dear friendship, value family, and share many common pursuits.

To strengthen China-Portugal relations on a friendly and mutually beneficial basis is the common aspiration of the two peoples, Cai said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 20:04:09|Editor: Chengcheng

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United Nations Envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths (C) arrives at Sanaa International Airport in Sanaa, capital of Yemen, on Dec. 3, 2018. Martin Griffiths arrived in Yemen's rebel-held capital Sanaa on Monday, in a brief stop to get Houthi delegates to Sweden. (Xinhua/Mohammed Mohammed)

SANAA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- United Nations Envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths arrived in the rebel-held capital Sanaa on Monday, in a brief stop to get Houthi delegates to Sweden.

Griffiths refused to talk to reporters upon his arrival and rushed to meet Houthi officials.

Griffiths office said the talks in Sweden would more likely start on Wednesday.

The Houthi delegation was set to depart along with the UN envoy shortly after the 50 wounded rebel fighters boarded another UN plane for further treatment in Oman.

However, the injured have been waiting at the airport for more than six hours as their plane has not yet arrived.

Spokesman of the coalition forces Turki al-Maliki said in a press conference in Riyadh that the move came upon a "request of the UN envoy Griffiths to facilitate the evacuation of injured to Muscat for humanitarian reasons."

"The facilitation comes within the confidence-building framework between the Yemeni parties to prepare for the upcoming peace talks in Sweden," al-Maliki said.

The blocking of Houthi injured fighters from getting further medical treatment was a key reason behind the collapse of previous round of talks in Geneva in September.

Monday's apparent breakthrough would pave the way for fresh negotiations in Sweden in next few days.

Meanwhile, Houthi negotiating delegates said they have received guarantees from the United Nations for a safe depart and return to Sanaa, but insist the group's injured should be evacuated first.

On Nov. 13, the British Foreign Office said its foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt has given an "upbeat assessment" of the chances of political talks and a cease-fire in the four-year Yemen civil war after his visit to Riyadh, ended with Saudi Arabia agreeing to allow the evacuation of some wounded Houthi fighters.

Saudi Arabia is leading the Arab military coalition that intervened in Yemen in March 2015 to support the government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi after the Houthi rebels forced him into exile.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 20:14:11|Editor: Li Xia

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BEIJING, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Innovative practices of helping people with disabilities better integrate into society were shared at the China Disability Policy Dialogue held in Beijing Monday, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

More than 80 government officials, experts, representatives of companies and organizations and people with disabilities attended the dialogue, which is part of the United Nations Partnership on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD) China Program.

UN Resident Coordinator in China Nicholas Rosellini highlighted China's progress in upholding equal rights of disabled people, and said "it is our objective that persons with disabilities are empowered to fully and equally participate in China's development process, so that the Sustainable Development Goals are realized not only for persons with disabilities but also by and with persons with disabilities."

The dialogue also promoted the Global Business and Disability Network China Chapter, a platform where the disabled can apply for jobs at international and national companies.

The network, launched in July, currently offers job positions at 16 companies including Airbus, IBM, J.P. Morgan and Standard Chartered.

Li Weixing, a manager of Chinese tech firm Xiaomi, elaborated on the company's information accessibility technology that enables a visually-impaired person to use cell phones using just their voice.

He also announced that the company would share with others the experience of developing the technology and work with others to further optimize it.

You Liang, director general of International Affairs Department of China Disabled Persons' Federation, summarized China's work in promoting disability inclusion and introduced a database that has collected the names, education and employment background of around 34 million disabled people.

"Through this database, we can better help those who registered to find jobs or apply for schools," You said.

Problems were also discussed at the dialogue, including discrimination and exclusion by individuals and employers, and institutions and companies failing to implement disability inclusion policies.

"The awareness of disability inclusion has been increasing around the world, and it requires China to respond in a more positive and robust way," said Marielza Oliveira, director and representative of the UNESCO Beijing Cluster Office and chair of the UN Sub-group on Disability.

China has 85 million disabled people.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 20:14:12|Editor: xuxin

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COLOMBO, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- A Sri Lankan court on Monday issued an interim order to prevent Mahinda Rajapaksa and his party members from acting as prime minister and the government till the case is heard on Dec. 12.

The Court of Appeal issued the order after 122 parliamentarians filed a petition challenging Rajapaksa and his government from holding office.

"The Court considered the arguments of both sides and says that irreversible damage could be caused if persons not entitled to do so sit as prime minister and the cabinet of ministers," lawyers arguing the case said.

The court has also issued notices to the 49 government ministers and Rajapaksa to appear before the court on Dec. 12 for the hearing, local media reports said,

Sri Lanka has been embroiled in a political turmoil since President Maithripala Sirisena surprisingly sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, and appointed former president Mahinda Rajapaksa as the prime minister as well as a new caretaker government in late October.

Since his appointment, Rajapaksa and his government have faced two no confidence motions.

President Sirisena has rejected the results of the two votes, saying they were not conducted in a legal manner and has requested Parliament to call for a vote again on Dec. 5.

Rajapaksa and his party have boycotted Parliament sessions since last month, saying that Speaker Karu Jayasuriya was acting in favor of Ranil Wickremesinghe and his party.

They also said they would continue to boycott sessions untill they are recognized as the government.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 20:19:13|Editor: xuxin

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NAIROBI, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Kenya's tourism authority said Monday it has kicked off a promotion campaign in the United States to woo more visitors in light of Kenya Airways' direct flight between New York City and Nairobi.

"The roadshow, which comes against the backdrop of the launch of non-stop, direct flights between Kenya and the U.S. on Oct. 28, 2018, provides KTB and the private sector with an opportunity to promote destination Kenya to travel and tour operators from the North American region," Betty Radier, CEO of Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) said in a statement issued in Nairobi.

"Our goal is to increase tourist arrivals from the U.S. by 15 percent during the current fiscal year 2018/19," said Radier.

KTB has teamed up with more than 10 private sector companies drawn from across the Kenya's tourism sector to line up promotional city roadshow campaigns in the United States that run on Dec. 3-7.

The cities that will be covered during the roadshow include New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C.

According to KTB, the United States market is currently Kenya's top market, accounting for 12.2 percent of total international arrivals to Kenya.

Radier said the event will provide a platform for the promotion of Kenya's top and signature experiences in the United States which include its world-renowned wildlife safari, culture and heritage, adventure, and special occasions.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 20:49:17|Editor: xuxin

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GAZA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- A military court run by Islamic Hamas movement in the Gaza Strip on Monday sentenced to death six Palestinians, including a woman, convicted for allegedly being collaborators with Israel, officials said.

The Hamas-run ministry of interior and the military judiciary corporation officials said in a news briefing held in Gaza that the military court sentenced 13 Palestinians, allegedly convicted for being collaborators with Israel.

Nasser Suleiman of the Hamas-run military judiciary corporation told reporters that six were sentenced to death, including a woman, and seven others were sentenced from 6 to 15 years of imprisonments and hard labor.

He said that their ages are between 26 and 55 years old, warning that "collaboration with the Israeli occupation is dangerous and the punishment of collaboration is high."

Nasser called on those who are still collaborating with Israel and haven't been unveiled, "can hand themselves over to the authorities and request forgiveness, otherwise, they will end up facing execution."

Meanwhile, Eyad al-Bozzom, spokesman of the Hamas-run ministry of interior, told reporters "the issued sentences are a clear message sent to collaborators that this is the end of everyone that betrays his people and his cause."

Since Hamas movement had violently taken control of the Gaza Strip in 2007, 20 Palestinians were executed after being convicted for being collaborators with Israel.

However, according to the Palestinian law, any court verdict, mainly death sentences, has to get the approval of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. Hamas doesn't request Abbas approval due to an internal Palestinian division.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 21:09:22|Editor: Li Xia

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NANJING, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- In the face of all kinds of challenges at home and abroad and increasing uncertainties, Premier Li Keqiang has called for efforts to expand reform and opening-up with firmness of purpose, build up growth momentum and stamina, and push forward high-quality development.

Li made the remarks at a recent meeting held in Nanjing, capital of east China's Jiangsu Province, with leading officials of some provinces and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region on current economic trends and development for next year.

China has taken multiple, targeted measures to ensure a stable economy, with full-year targets expected to be fulfilled, Li said, but still cautioning against rising downward pressures amid complicated circumstances at home and abroad.More foreign airlines have taken routes passing through North Korea's flight information region since August.

Until July, only Russia sent airplanes through the area due to missile and other military threats from the North. But now Germany, the Netherlands and Taiwan also used the route when traveling to and from South Korean airports, according to data from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.

The International Civil Aviation Organization designated the sky over the North Korean side of the East Sea as a "danger area" and advised aircraft not to fly through it if at all possible.

German airplanes resumed flights through the North Korean FIR in August, followed by Dutch aircraft in September and Taiwanese in October. Other countries are more cautious. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration bans civil aviation in the Pyongyang FIR unless otherwise notified until September 2020.

Seoul has also banned flight through the region for fear of attacks from the North since it slapped sanctions on the regime in May 2010.

The UN Security Council bans UN member countries from handing out cash to the North Korean regime, so flights through actual North Korean airspace remain impossible because they would incur fees.

South Korean airlines could save W20.4 billion and 3,898 flight hours a year by passing through North Korean airspace on their way to the U.S. or Europe, but they would have to pay Pyongyang W8 billion a year (US$1=W1,122).

Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 21:09:22|Editor: Li Xia

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Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan (R, center) and South African Minister of Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa (L, center) co-chair the second meeting of the China-South Africa High-Level People-to-People Exchange Mechanism (PPEM) in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 3, 2018. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

BEIJING, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Sun Chunlan and South African Minister of Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa on Monday co-chaired the second meeting of the China-South Africa High-Level People-to-People Exchange Mechanism (PPEM).

Sun said that since the launch of the PPEM more than a year ago, cooperation between the two sides in various fields has achieved fruitful results and continuously injected new impetus into the development of bilateral relations.

"China-South Africa relations are at a new historical starting point," she said, noting the two sides should implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state during their visit, boost people-to-people exchanges, and enhance exchange of students studying in each other country.

Sun also called on the two sides to promote the construction of joint research centers in fields including minerals and forestry, and strengthen cooperation on cultural and creative industries, cultural heritage protection, traditional medicine, public health, health management and other fields.

The two sides should also promote cooperation in fields including media, sports, tourism, youth, women, think tanks, localities and archives, make the results of people-to-people exchanges better benefit the common people, and work together to create a new era of China-South Africa friendship, Sun said.

Mthethwa said that the South Africa-China relations were consolidating and developing in recent years.

The two sides should give full play to the PPEM, deepen pragmatic cooperation in various fields so as to lay the social foundation for deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, Mthethwa said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 21:19:25|Editor: xuxin

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THIMPHU, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Bhutan received 71,417 international visitors last year, the highest number of visitors since 2012, according to Bhutan Tourism Monitor 2017 report.

The international tourists arrival in 2017 contributed revenue earning of 79 million U.S. dollars, which is also the highest since 2012, according to the report released by Bhutan Tourism Council Sunday.

According to the report, a total of 254,704 tourists visited Bhutan in 2017, an increase of 21.5 percent over 2016. The international tourists arrivals grew by 13.8 percent as compared with 2016, while arrivals from the regional market, including India and Bangladesh, grew by 25 percent.

Tourism officials said Bhutan continues to be an attractive destination and was awarded destination's earth award at the International Tourismus-Borse Berlin, Germany.

While India continues to be the main source market of tourists in terms of regional visitors, for the international segment the United States, Britain, Germany, China, Japan, Singapore and Thailand continue to be Bhutan's consistent market sources.

Religious festivals such as Tshechus remained among the highest attractions of Bhutan, according to the report.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 21:19:25|Editor: Li Xia

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NAIROBI, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- China over the years has contributed to Kenya's human capacity building as bilateral economic and trade cooperation has reached an "unprecedented" level, a Chinese official has said.

In a signed article published by Kenya's biggest newspaper Nation Daily on Monday, Guo Ce, the economic counselor of Chinese Embassy in Kenya said human resource training has always been an important area of bilateral cooperation.

According to Guo, nearly 10,000 Kenyan government officials have been to China to participate in training seminars since the launch of China-sponsored Human Resources Training Program in 2001.

He said vocational training projects, which is aimed at building the capacity of technical talents in Kenya, has made impressive progress. From 2015 to this year, Chinese enterprises have offered 60,000 training opportunities for managers, skilled workers, doctors, teachers, and industry personnel.

Guo said that China has assisted in the completion of the Sino-Africa Joint Research Centre and will help to expand the Kenya Railway Training Institute and establish the China-Africa Teachers College of Vocational Education. "This will help to equip Kenyans with advanced acknowledge and technical skills," he said.

According to him, the Chinese government has also funded more than 1,000 Kenyan students to study in China. This year alone, more than 100 students have won the Ambassador Scholarship, Chinese Government Scholarship and Ministry of Commerce Scholarship.

In addition, hundreds of students have obtained scholarships from Confucius Institutes and other Chinese enterprises and organizations based in the Kenya.

He said that China will increase foreign aid in training to meet the needs of Kenya's economic and social development. "We hope to continuously develop the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between our countries." said Guo.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 21:19:25|Editor: xuxin

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DAMASCUS, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- People with physical impairments need opportunities to be an active part in the society, not sympathy, said Roa Hamzeh, who is on a wheelchair.

The Syrian woman expressed her belief that this group of people can do great things if they were granted opportunities to show their real strength.

Hamzeh moves outside her house on a wheelchair while she manages to stand up with the help of her mother. She suffers a post-birth situation that put her under the knife in countless surgeries, but without a solid treatment to make her walk independently so far.

Unlike many girls who prefer to stay inside their bedrooms, Hamzeh said her favorite part of the house is the kitchen, where she spends times writing volunteering pieces about disabled people online.

Aside from her volunteer work, the woman has a day job at a government institution near the house in the Sehnaya suburb of the capital Damascus.

She has also participated in many events held for the people with special needs and was a supervisor once on a humanitarian project for such people in her neighborhood.

In spite of the fact that her mobility is a problem for her, the woman has a special glow in her eyes, which are beaming with a mix of determination and hope.

For her, the International Day for Disabled Persons is an occasion on which she wants to deliver a message to the community and the world that she and other people in her situation have unique powers and that they could do a lot more than being patronized or marginalized.

Wearing her brown hair simple and sliding over her shoulder-less fashionable pink sweater over a pair of sky-blue jeans and sneakers, Hamzeh told Xinhua that one of her dreams is to become a media person to be able to have her voice heard.

"My dream never ends because I want to be a role model for every person with a disability," she said.

The woman elaborated that "my dream of becoming a media person is to deliver the message of every person with a disability. My biggest dream is to have a center to help the people with impairments and to see their demands and needs."

Hamzeh said that she always feels challenging due to her situation, which gives her the power to pursue her dreams.

"Nothing for me is impossible. I want to break the barrier between me and my situation as I am now in a competition and challenge between my aspiration and my situation," she said.

"The disability is not the impairment of the brain or body. It's the disability of the morals, and the impairment of the society, which is hindering us through its perspectives, treatment and rejection of us," she stressed.

As Syria's prolonged war has affected her determination to a point, she was left discouraged for some time.

She said many projects about the people with special needs have been postponed during the war and many health centers have been either destroyed or closed, which affected those who were receiving medical treatment.

Hamzeh added that "I personally had lost hope for some time that I could ever move on in my education or work. My dreams during that time dwindled to the hope of just being safe along with my family."

On the occasion of the International Day for Disabled Persons, the woman hoped for all the disabled people to have bright futures.

"I wish good for all the people with disabilities and may all the doors of life and roads be open for them because truly we deserve to be in a suitable place for us," she hoped.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 21:29:29|Editor: Li Xia

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HARBIN, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- China imported 23.37 million tonnes of crude oil from Russia through the China-Russia oil pipeline in the first ten months of 2018, up 71.35 percent year on year, authorities said Monday.

According to Harbin customs, the main impetus behind the increase is the second line for the China-Russia oil pipeline that began commercial operation in January, raising China's annual import capacity of Russian crude oil through the pipeline from 15 million to 30 million tonnes.

The second line starts from Mohe, which borders Russia, to the city of Daqing in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, passing north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. The first line was put into use on Jan. 1, 2011, with an annual capacity of 15 million tonnes, starting from the Russian city of Skovorodino to Daqing.

The China-Russian oil pipeline has reduced costs and raised the efficiency of China's oil imports from Russia, which had previously relied on rail transport.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 21:49:33|Editor: xuxin

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MOSCOW, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Kremlin denied allegations by Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko Monday that the recent seizure of Ukrainian naval ships proved Russia's plans to take Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov.

"This is an absolutely absurd statement. Actually it is another attempt to somehow provoke tensions," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Last week, Poroshenko told German Funke Media Group that Moscow was allegedly planning to seize two Ukrainian ports to build a land corridor between the insurgent Ukrainian region of Donbass and Crimea, which was incorporated into Russia in 2014 following a local referendum.

Peskov said Poroshenko used this statement to boost his ratings ahead of the presidential election in March 2019.

The spokesman also rejected Kiev's allegations that Russia was blocking traffic to and from Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov, saying that navigation has continued as normal except for occasional suspensions because of bad weather.

He also commented on Poroshenko's statement that he could not reach Russian President Vladimir Putin during and after the Kerch Strait incident on Nov. 25, when Russian forces shot and seized three Ukrainian naval ships citing their violation of the Russian border in the Black Sea.

"I can only confirm that there really has not been a telephone conversation between Putin and Poroshenko since the incident. Currently, as far as I know, no such a conversation is planned for days to come," he said.

U.S. President Donald Trump canceled his meeting with Putin, initially scheduled for Saturday during Group of 20 (G20) summit in Argentina, due to the Kerch Strait incident.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 22:09:36|Editor: xuxin

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NEW DELHI, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Japanese Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) is in India for a bilateral air exercise "SHINYUU Maitri-18" with the Indian Air Force (IAF) from December 3-7, said official sources on Monday.

The theme of the exercise, held at the Air Force station in Agra in northern state of Uttar Pradesh, is joint mobility and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) on transport aircraft.

The JASDF's 'C2' aircraft along with aircrew and observers are part of this first air exercise between the two air forces.

The IAF is participating with 'AN-32' and 'C-17' aircraft with aircrew and observers.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 22:34:42|Editor: yan

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LISBON, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Portugal's relationship with China is "exceptional," Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa said in a recent interview with Chinese media.

Speaking ahead of a state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Portugal, Rebelo de Sousa said not only have the Portuguese and Chinese known each other for some 500 years, but also relations between the two countries have grown rapidly in recent decades.

"In the last 40 years, and especially in the last 20 years, relations have grown" in the fields of education, culture and "above all in economic and financial terms," said the Portuguese president.

China and Portugal established diplomatic relations in 1979. In 2005, they elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Bilateral trade in 2017 was worth 5.58 billion U.S. dollars.

Chinese companies now have a presence in banking, insurance, infrastructure and energy sectors in Portugal, while Portuguese companies of all sizes have entered the Chinese market and partnered with Chinese companies in trade, industry and civil engineering, Rebelo de Sousa said.

In addition, companies of the two countries have taken advantage of their respective strengths to cooperate in third-party markets.

"We could do more. We should do more, because a good relationship is a relationship that goes in two directions, meaning a Chinese presence in Portugal and a Portuguese presence in China," he said.

The upcoming state visit by Xi is the first by a Chinese head of state to Portugal in eight years.

Rebelo de Sousa said that he is in favor of more cooperation between the two countries in education, which "represents the future, the next generation."

Portugal is an important partner in the Belt and Road Initiative and one of the founding members of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

The Portuguese president said he thinks the Belt and Road Initiative is a long-term plan that holds relevance for Portugal.

"I think we have enabled convergence in this regard," Rebelo de Sousa said, citing the strategic location of Portugal as a gateway to Europe on the sea.

In 2017, the two countries signed documents on cementing a "blue partnership" to strengthen maritime cooperation, which has become a new bright spot in bilateral ties.

There's plenty of room for maritime cooperation, Rebelo de Sousa said.

The Portuguese president said there is trust between Portugal and China due to their diplomatic relations and strong cooperation.

"The visit of President Xi will reinforce and strengthen this trust, which is not only trust, but trust and friendship," he said. "That's why I said relations are excellent, or exceptional, and the outcome of the visit will inevitably be very positive."Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 22:34:42|Editor: yan

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KIGALI, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The current Chinese investment in Africa, most especially in infrastructure development, is good for the continent to achieve economic and social transformation on the continent, an official of African Development Bank (AfDB) said here Monday.

"Chinese investments are highly welcome to Africa," Gabriel Negatu, director general of AfDB East Africa regional development and business delivery office, told Xinhua in an interview on the sidelines of the ongoing African Economic Conference that opened on Monday.

Private investment from China, especially in transport, energy and industrial development, would help Africa to speed up the implementation of a continental free trade area, said Negatu.

"China has become Africa's great development partner, because the Chinese government has been able to support heavy infrastructure projects like the Kenya Standard Gauge Railway, among others," he said.

"It is us Africans who need to decide what it is that we want China to invest in. Today the west is not able to support that kind of big infrastructure developments in Africa," he added.

The 13th edition of the annual conference, organized by the United Nations Development Program and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa is held under the theme "Regional and Continental Integration for Africa's Development."

The conference that runs to Wednesday, focuses, among others, on initiatives for accelerating progress in infrastructure integration, including the removal of barriers for movement of people and goods and services across borders.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 22:44:45|Editor: yan

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MADRID, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Spanish Liga Santander side Atletico Madrid confirmed on Monday that the club's Spanish international striker Diego Costa will have an operation in an attempt to clear up a long-standing foot injury.

The operation is likely to leave the Brazilian-born forward out of action for around two months.

The foot problem has so far meant that Costa's second spell at the club has been disappointing, with just four goals from 26 league appearances and just one goal in 11 games this season, which was against FC Barcelona nine days ago.

"Diego Costa is to be operated on in Brazil this week due to ongoing pain in his left foot."

"After considering all the possible options, the decision has been made to undertake the operation in Brazil, supervised by Atletico Madrid's medical services," confirmed a statement on the club's website.

Atletico added that Costa "who had an operation on the fifth metatarsal of his left foot 12 years ago, has been enduring ongoing pain due to foot trauma suffered three weeks ago."

By operating on Costa now, Atletico hope to assure that he will be fit for the knockout stages of the Champions League, which this season will be celebrated in the club's Wanda Metropolitano stadium.President Moon Jae-in and U.S. President Donald Trump met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Argentina last week and agreed that a visit to Seoul by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un would "offer additional momentum" to establishing peace on the Korean Peninsula. A high-ranking Cheong Wa Dae official said, "Kim has always lived up to his personal promises, and a visit to Seoul will take place, even if it does not happen this year."

Kim spent about 12 hours on the South Korean side of the border truce village of Panmunjom during his summit with Moon in April of this year, but that was it. A visit to Seoul would be of tremendous historical significance since it would be the first proper visit by a North Korean leader. For Kim just to see the sparkling reality of present-day Seoul could trigger a degree of openness in the North, and of course frequent exchange visits by the leaders of the two Koreas will contribute to easing tensions on the Korean Peninsula. But Kim will have to face protests from the public here if he comes while the North's nuclear threat looms overhead, and if he is touchy such a visit could end up making the situation worse. Seoul too could be seen as an appeaser in the international community or even condoning the North's nuclear armament.

The only way to make sure the trip is a success is to achieve concrete progress in denuclearization. But at present North Korea is merely pretending. Pyongyang has rejected all proposed meetings to initiate the process and continues to bolster its nuclear weapons and missiles. At the same time, it is intent on publicity events like another summit with Trump. Kim probably hopes to sign another hollow joint statement like the one that came out of their first summit, while benefiting from more concessions. Trump is also addicted to photo ops and told reporters that a second summit could take place in January or February of next year. It is fortunate that Trump is so far continuing sanctions, but there is no telling how things will change. A repeat of the Singapore fiasco is not impossible.

Kim should only visit when that could contribute significantly to the scrapping of the North's fissile materials, nuclear warheads and highly-enriched uranium. But there has to be an end to these publicity events and hollow joint statements of sunshine and apple pie. If Seoul keeps wasting time, the isolated state may end up becoming a nuclear power in plain sight. That is what happened with India and Pakistan. A crossroads will soon be reached that determines whether South Korea becomes a permanent hostage to North Korea's nukes.

Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 22:49:48|Editor: Chengcheng

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ISLAMABAD, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump has sought Pakistan's support in negotiated settlement of the conflict in Afghanistan, the Pakistani Foreign Ministry said on Monday.

"U.S. President Donald Trump, in his letter addressed to Prime Minister Imran Khan, has stated that his most important regional priority was achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war. In this regard, he has sought Pakistan's support and facilitation," the foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement.

The spokesman said Trump has also acknowledged that the war had cost both the United States and Pakistan.

"He (President Trump) has emphasized that Pakistan and USA should explore opportunities to work together and renew partnership," the spokesman said.

The spokesman welcomed the U.S. decision and said Pakistan has always advocated a political settlement to end the war in Afghanistan.

"Pakistan reiterates its commitment to play a facilitation role in good faith. Peace and stability in Afghanistan remains a shared responsibility," he said.

Trump was seeking Pakistan's help in Afghan reconciliation at a time when the U.S. had held a series of meetings with the Taliban in Qatar, where the Afghan insurgents have political office.

U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad held three-day talks with the Taliban political envoys last month and more talks are expected to be held this month.

A Pakistani official told Xinhua on Monday that the U.S. special envoy is likely to arrive in Pakistan on Tuesday for talks on Pakistan's role in the Afghan peace process.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 22:49:49|Editor: yan

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BEIJING, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- A reform plan of the Red Cross Society of China (RCSC), approved recently, is expected to make the organization more effective, an RCSC official told Xinhua Monday.

Under new circumstances, the mission and targets of the RCSC have undergone profound changes, and demand and approaches for humanitarian services are bound to transform, the official said.

The world also places more expectation on China to play a bigger role in global affairs, and building of a community with a shared future for humanity offers the RCSC a broader field to play a role in, and places higher demands on its capacity and vigor, according to the official.

Only through exploring mechanisms of more efficiency, transparency and standardization, as well as solving problems that affect the Red Cross work can the RCSC better perform its duties, the unidentified official said.

The reforms include pushing forward innovation in administrative organizations, human resources and operation of the RCSC, in order to led Red Cross societies at all levels become more closely linked to the public and have more transparency and credibility, the official said.

"All sectors of the society will be encouraged to take part in our activities," said the official.

The official said the RCSC would stay people-focused as it worked on emergency rescue, humanitarian aid, voluntary blood donation and organ donation.

The RCSC has also agreed to improve its information disclosure by posting receipts and disbursements of funds and goods on a unified information platform, accepting public supervision.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 22:54:50|Editor: yan

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NEW DELHI, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will provide India's eastern state of Odisha a loan of 85 million U.S. dollars to improve the skill development eco-system, and establish an advanced skill training center - the "World Skill Center (WSC)" in the state capital Bhubaneswar.

An agreement to this effect was signed between the ADB and the Indian government on Monday, said an official statement.

The project will help over 150,000 people learn skills in priority sectors, including manufacturing, construction and services for formal employment.

WSC will deliver eight training courses for as many as 13,000 full-time students, provide training for 5,000 teachers, and train 1,000 assessors. It will improve the overall eco-system of skill development in Odisha by providing integrated services through an entrepreneurship incubation center, a career counseling and placement center, a curriculum design and development center, and education technology deployment center.

These important functions of WSC will support a network of government industrial training institutes (ITIs), and develop skills and capacity of polytechnics, college of engineering, and other private skilling centers.

The project will engage Singapore's Institute of Technical Education Services (ITEES) to support Odisha Skill Development Authority in setting-up and operationalizing WSC which would offer internationally bench marked advanced training programs for the working age population of Odisha, the official statement quoted ADB Country Director Kenichi Yokoyama as saying.

Besides, the ADB will also administer a two million U.S. dollar technical assistance grant from the "Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction", financed by the government of Japan, that will support capacity development activities under the project.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 22:54:50|Editor: yan

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KATHMANDU, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Nepal marked the 27th International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Monday with a commitment to making the state more inclusive for persons with disabilities.

Though the global theme for this year is "Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality," Nepal marked the celebrations with "Count me, include me."

A special gathering including rally was organized by Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizen in Kathmandu with the participation of over 500 people with different forms of disabilities.

Addressing the function, Minister for Women, Children and Senior Citizen Tham Maya Thapa said that the government is sensitive and committed to ensuring all the rights are protected for people with disabilities.

"Our constitution has treated the persons with disabilities as equal to other people with an aim to respect them and their contributions. We have been formulating acts and best policies for the effective implementation," the minister said

Noting that the government is forming a special mechanism to address the demands of persons with disabilities, she said that discussions are also going on to change the name of ministry to make it more inclusive.

In 2017, the Nepali parliament endorsed the Disability Rights Bill, adopting a human rights-based approach to disability. The new law incorporates some crucial features to safeguard rights of persons with disabilities, though it remains to be implemented.

Sudarshan Subedi, Chairman of National Federation of the Disabled, a national umbrella body of persons with disabilities, told Xinhua, "We need to identify the necessities of disabled people in various sectors like education, health and employment first. Then, we need to address their demands to support their overall development. "

As per the Census 2011, 1.94 percent of total population of Nepal has some kind of disability.

According to National Federation of the Disabled, there are more than three hundred member organizations working against all kinds of discriminations, marginalization, isolation and barriers against persons with disabilities.

On the occasion, representatives of different disabled persons' organizations demanded inclusion of disabled persons at every level of the government and equal access in every sector.

Bharat BC, a wheelchair user who is also engaged in sports, shared with Xinhua, "There are many people with disabilities who are limited within the domestic sphere. They are not being counted and are deprived of opportunities. Everyone should be counted as productive member of society and included in state mechanisms."

Recently, National Federation of the Disabled has also launched campaign #CountMeIncludeMe to include the persons with disabilities in data and statistics, decision making process, development initiatives and state mechanism as competent and eligible persons for the labor market.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 22:59:50|Editor: yan

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ALGIERS, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Saudi and Algerian businessmen met here on Monday as part of a business forum co-chaired by Algerian Minister of Industry and Mines, Youcef Yousfi, and Saudi Minister of Investment, Majid bin Abdullah al Qassabi.

The forum is held on the sidelines of the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who arrived in the North African nation late on Sunday.

The forum discusses investment opportunities between the two countries.

According to a statement of Algerian President Office, the visit of the Saudi crown prince aims at "consolidating distinguished bilateral relations, and giving a new impetus to bilateral cooperation, as well as boosting partnership and investment projects and opening new horizons for businessmen in a bid to increase trade exchange and expand economic partnership."Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 23:04:52|Editor: yan

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GAZA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Islamic Hamas movement called on Monday for an international intervention to thwart a U.S. draft resolution condemning Hamas in the United Nations General Assembly.

Sami Abu Zuhri, a Gaza Hamas leader, said in a statement that "the international community is standing in front of a real test to prevent the U.S. administration from violating the international laws."

He said that the U.S. draft resolution "turns facts and overcomes the real problem," and "all international laws are calling for ending it."

Meanwhile, Hamas announced on Sunday night that its politburo chief Ismail Haniyeh made phone calls with Arab and foreign leaders to thwart the U.S. decision.

"Haniyeh sent letters to the UN Secretary General and urged them to seriously act in order to thwart the draft resolution that the U.S. intends to present before the UN General Assembly soon," said a statement issued by Haniyeh's office in Gaza.

The UN General Assembly is scheduled to vote on Thursday to a U.S. draft resolution that condemns Hamas movement for firing rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel.

The resolution would call on Hamas and Islamic Jihad to stop firing rockets from the coastal enclave that is under a tight Israeli blockade and stop releasing arson kites and balloons as part of a popular protest called the "Great March of Return."Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 23:29:55|Editor: yan

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MOSCOW, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The visa-free regime for trips to the Chinese island of Hainan may boost the number of Russian tourists by up to one third this year, a Russian official said Monday.

"Any visa breaks give us 10 to 30 percent of growth," Yury Barzykin, vice president of the Russian Union of Travel Industry, said in an interview with Xinhua.

China put a visa-free policy into force on May 1 this year, which allows visitors from 59 countries to enter Hainan Province and stay there for 30 days visa-free.

Barzykin said Hainan is one of the most promising destinations for Russian tourists.

He said the developed infrastructure, various levels of hotels, comprehensive travel packages, picturesque beaches, sophisticated cuisine, original culture and cordiality make Hainan very attractive.

In 2017, more than 280,000 Russians visited Hainan during the winter holiday, including the New Year and Orthodox Christmas on Jan. 7, Barzykin said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 23:29:55|Editor: Chengcheng

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KIEV, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Monday submitted to parliament a draft law on ending the Treaty on Friendship, Cooperation and Partnership between Ukraine and Russia, the parliament's press service said.

The text of the legislation has yet to be published.

In September, Poroshenko signed a decree to enforce a decision by the National Security and Defense Council to terminate the friendship treaty with Russia signed in 1997.

Under the agreement, Kiev and Moscow pledged to respect each other's borders and to peacefully settle disputes.

Relations between Kiev and Moscow, which have been deteriorating since early 2014 over Crimea and eastern Ukraine, escalated last month.

On Nov. 25, three Ukrainian ships attempting to sail through the Kerch Strait from the Black Sea to the Sea of Azov were seized by Russian forces for allegedly violating the Russian border.

The Ukrainian Navy said that it had informed Russia in advance of the passage, while Russia said it had received no such report and the ships ignored multiple warnings by the Russian border guards.

In the wake of the tensions, Ukraine imposed martial law in 10 regions mainly bordering Russia for 30 days starting from last Wednesday.

Poroshenko emphasized that "martial law does not mean the declaration of war," but a step toward strengthening Ukraine's defense.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-03 23:34:56|Editor: yan

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Chinese Premier Li Keqiang presides over a meeting with leading officials of some provinces and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region on current economic trends and development for next year in Nanjing, capital of east China's Jiangsu Province, Nov. 30, 2018. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

NANJING, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- In the face of challenges at home and abroad, Premier Li Keqiang has called for firmer, bolder efforts to expand reform and opening-up, build up growth momentum and push forward high-quality development.

Li made the remarks at a meeting about current economic trends and development for next year, held recently in Nanjing, capital of east China's Jiangsu Province. It was attended by a number of leading provincial-level officials.

China has taken multiple, targeted measures to ensure a stable economy, with major full-year targets expected to be fulfilled, Li said. However, he warned of rising downward pressures amid complicated circumstances at home and abroad.

China will maintain the continuity and stability of policies, with measures to "ensure the proper intensity and tempo and improve the fine-tuning, and guide the market to form stable expectations," he said.

The supply-side structural reform will remain as a major task, and the government will step up support for manufacturing, services and other forms of the real economy, in particular small and private enterprises, according to Li.

China will moderately expand domestic demand and propel consumption upgrades, Li said.

He said China will improve the efficiency of government funds, grant private capital easier market access and accelerate building major projects.

He urged governments of all levels to give priority to employment and build a business environment that is convenient, stable, transparent and fair.

The premier also promised lower taxes and fees, and stressed the role of the labor force in sustainable development.

Li also called on governments to take differentiated measures and make use of the country's economic advantages to ensure the economy will perform well.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 00:05:01|Editor: yan

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MANILA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Multilateral development banks (MDBs), including the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), announced on Monday a joint framework for reinforcing their commitment to combating climate change.

In a two-paged joint declaration, the MDBs committed to working together in six key areas considered central to meeting the goals of the agreement, which aims to limit the increase in global temperatures to well below 2 Celsius degree, pursuing efforts for 1.5 Celesius degree.

The declaration was issued at the start of the 24th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP24) in Katowice, Poland.

"The global development agenda is at a pivotal point," the joint declaration says. "There is international consensus on the urgent need to ensure that policy engagements and financial flows are consistent with a pathway towards low greenhouse gas emissions and climate-resilient development."

The MDBs and the International Development Finance Club (IDFC) had already pledged in December 2017 to align financial flows with the objectives of the Paris Agreement.

"To realize this vision, we are working together to develop a dedicated approach," the joint MDB declaration adds.

The Manila-based ADB said in a statement that this approach builds on the ongoing MDB contribution to climate finance, which, in 2017, amounted to 35 billion U.S. dollars to tackle climate change in developing and emerging economies, while mobilizing an additional 52 billion dollars from private and public sector sources.

Aside from AIIB and ADB, the other MDBs include the African Development Bank Group, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the European Investment Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank Group, the Islamic Development Bank, the New Development Bank and the World Bank Group.Growing taste for quality seafood lifts businesses

From:ChinaDaily | 2018-12-03 07:41

By making the most of its geographical location and China's opening-up policies, Hunchun has become a major hub for fresh seafood imports from Russia, as local appetites for top-quality products continue to grow.

"Little do people know that 90 percent of the king crabs sold in China pass through Hunchun after being imported from Russia," said Lang Hui, deputy director of economic cooperation for the Hunchun International Cooperation Demonstration Zone.

Many people are surprised to hear Hunchun is a hub for seafood distribution because it has no seaport, but they soon see the reason why after learning about its location in Jilin province, he said.

Hunchun, which borders Russia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is 63 kilometers from the Port of Zarubino in Russia's Far East. The port has become a short cut for importing unpolluted, deep-sea marine products from the Kamchatka Peninsula.

"As Chinese people's lives have been improved, more and more people can afford to treat themselves to quality seafood at higher prices, such as king crabs," Lang said. "As a result, the city decided to develop its seafood industry in 2010."

That year, Hunchun could process only 1,000 metric tons of marine products, but in 2017 that had increased to 200,000 tons, with 116 companies specializing in seafood imports.

However, companies importing DPRK products, such as squid, have been greatly affected by the UN sanctions imposed on Pyongyang last year in the wake of the country's missile test.

"Some have seafood processing factories in the DPRK that have had to stop operation," Lang said. "Also, many raw materials waiting to be processed in Hunchun now can't be exported, causing an economic loss of 300 million yuan ($43.1 million)."

To cushion the blow, companies have shifted focus to Russia. According to the Hunchun government, in the first eight months of this year, the trade volume of king crabs imported from Russia increased more than threefold year-on-year.

Importing seafood from Zarubino is much faster than using Dalian Port, the largest multipurpose port in Liaoning province and a traditional point of entry for Russian marine products, according to Zhao Kuizheng, manager of Hunchun Xinhe Aquatic Products and International Trade.

"When we first set up a processing factory here in 2013, few of our international partners had heard of Hunchun. Now the city is a well-known name in seafood trade," he said, adding that his company plans to expand its facility next year.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 00:10:02|Editor: yan

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VILNIUS, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Three ministers of the Lithuanian government will be replaced in order to ensure bigger reform breakthrough, prime minister Saulius Skvernelis said on Monday.

"There are some areas in which as a head of government I would like to see bigger progress, more dynamics and more determination. I want to announce that I decided today to replace three ministers currently working at the government," Skvernelis told reporters.

Proposals to dismiss ministers of education and science, environment and culture will be submitted to the country's President Dalia Grybauskaite on Wednesday, Skvernelis added.

His decision was announced amid protracted walkout by Lithuanian teachers who have been protesting against recently introduced changes to the teachers' remuneration system.

"There are many things to be fixed, and it is not only up to the Ministry of Education and Science", Skvernelis underlined.

He did not have any potential replacements at the moment, the PM claimed.

Jurgita Petrauskiene, minister of education, said the PM's decision was not a surprise as she had been facing "a lot of questions on this subject recently". Last week, Grybauskaite questioned the possibility of Petrauskiene to proceed at the office. According to the president, the government's education system reform had shortages and was being implemented in an "arrogant" way.

Liana Ruokyte-Jonsson, minister of culture, and Kestutis Navickas, minister of environment, admitted in their comments to the local media that they lacked support for their work at the parliament.

President Grybauskaite said she agreed with the decision to dismiss Petrauskiene, however she will wait for the prime minister's explanation why the other two ministers should be fired as well.

"When it comes to the education and science minister, the president agrees. However, she will want to hear some arguments and reasons regarding the other ministers," presidential adviser Daiva Ulbinaite told the news agency Elta.

As the fourth week of strikes began on Monday, around 1,400 teachers were taking part in the protests. Based on preliminary data of the Ministry of Education and Science, 60 schools out of nearly 2,000 schools were on strike Monday.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 00:10:02|Editor: yan

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ADDIS ABABA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The first Africa-China business forum kicked off here on Monday as Ethiopian and Chinese businesses aspire to create partnership in various sectors.

The China-Africa business forum, which is underway in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa from Dec. 3 to 5 with a theme of "China-Ethiopia Industrial Capacity Cooperation Exposition," also hosts various other side events, including the a high-level business expo, industrial capacity cooperation forum, investment promotion conference, and visit to some of Ethiopia's industrial parks.

Some 46 Chinese companies are currently showcasing their products and services at the first edition of the high-level Africa-China business forum.

Speaking at the opening session of the forum on Monday, Melaku Ezezew, President of the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations (ECCSA), emphasized the strong business and investment ties between Ethiopia and China, both at government as well as business level.

Ezezew also noted that the business forum and the expo will help companies to forge "strong working partnership."

The event, which is scheduled to be held on annual basis in the future, is co-hosted by ECCSA and the China International Exhibition Center (CIEC).

According to Deputy Manager of CIEC, Liu Jian, the visiting high-level Chinese companies have planned to utilize the opportunity to create business partnership and joint venture with Ethiopian and other African businesses.

The expo, sponsored by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade in partnership with the China-Africa Development Fund, will serve as a platform in creating linkage among African and Chinese business people, Liu said.

The event is aimed at deepening the comprehensive partnership of Ethiopia and China so as to encourage the operation of industry and commerce of the two countries, according to ECCSA.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 00:15:04|Editor: Xiang Bo

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Li Zhanshu (R), chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, holds talks with Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey Binali Yildirim at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 3, 2018. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

BEIJING, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- China and Turkey on Monday vowed to strengthen parliamentary exchanges and cooperation to strengthen bilateral ties.

The pledge came as China's top legislator Li Zhanshu held talks with Binali Yildirim, speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, in Beijing.

Bonded by the ancient Silk Road in the past, China and Turkey are more closely connected today by the Belt and Road Initiative, said Li, chairman of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee, adding that the two countries were at a similar development stage, shared common interests, and had great cooperation potential.

Li said the leaders of the two countries had met twice this year, reaching important consensus on developing bilateral relations and on major international and regional issues, and making strategic planning and top-level design for promoting bilateral ties in a new era.

He said that China had always viewed the two countries' strategic cooperative relationship from a strategic and long-term perspective, and hoped to deepen mutual trust and beneficial cooperation to lift bilateral ties to a new level.

"The Chinese NPC is ready to work with the Grand National Assembly of Turkey to enhance exchanges and cooperation, and make it a priority to implement the consensus reached by the two countries' leaders," Li said.

Li suggested the two sides carry out friendly exchanges and provide legal protection for bilateral cooperation, to improve the development of the China-Turkey strategic cooperative relationship.

Yildirim said the two countries had broad prospects for cooperation in many areas, including on co-building the Belt and Road, as well as in trade, railways, tourism and anti-terrorism.

"Turkey firmly adheres to the one-China policy and supports China in combating terrorism," he said. "The two parliaments should strengthen friendly exchanges, support pragmatic cooperation in all fields, and add impetus to the development of bilateral ties."Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 00:25:06|Editor: yan

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BANGKOK, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Twenty Palestinian nationals were rounded up at a Bangkok hotel and faced with overstaying charges, said Thai police on Monday.

The 20 Palestinians, including seven children, have allegedly overstayed since they entered Thailand and called on the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees' office in Bangkok in bid to seek asylum in a third country several years ago, said Immigration Bureau commissioner Pol. Maj. Gen. SurachateHakparn.

The police raided the hotel in Khlong Chan area of Bang Kapi district and found the Palestinians and Iraqis in five hotel rooms, which have been illegally provided as temporary shelter where they have overstayed against the law, according to the Immigration Bureau chief.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Surachate commented that any refugees who may have sought asylum in a third country under care of the UNHCR are supposed to be easily reached at any given time by authorities, but those Middle Eastern nationals have allegedly remained in hiding and failed to notify the authorities of their whereabouts.

Over 2,000 refugees have managed to enter Thailand with intent to seek asylum in third countries yearly, Pol. Maj. Gen. Surachate said.

An unidentified Thai citizen was charged with illegally providing the hotel rooms for the Palestinian and Iraqi refugees, he said.

Besides, two Somalian nationals were also found at that hotel and charged with illegal entry.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 00:30:07|Editor: yan

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SANAA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- A United Nations-chartered plane carrying 50 wounded Houthi rebel fighters on Monday left Yemen's rebel-held capital Sanaa for Omani capital Muscat for treatment, a Xinhua photographer witnessed.

The flight also carried 50 accompanying persons and three Yemeni doctors, a Houthi official told Xinhua.

Earlier the day, Turki al-Maliki, spokesman of the coalition forces, said in a press conference in Riyadh that the move came upon a "request" of the UN Special Envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths "to facilitate the evacuation of the injured to Muscat for humanitarian reasons."

"The facilitation comes within the confidence-building framework between the Yemeni parties to prepare for the upcoming peace talks in Sweden," al-Maliki said.

The plane took off just few hours after Griffiths arrived in Sanaa.

Griffiths' office in Jordanian capital Amman told Xinhua by phone that the talks in Sweden would likely start in next few days.

"The UN envoy was expected to accompany Houthi rebel delegation from Sanaa to Sweden. But there was no exact information about the next movements of Griffiths," his office said.

The apparent breakthrough would pave the way for the upcoming negotiations in Stockholm.

Meanwhile, Houthi negotiating delegation has received guarantees from the UN for a safe depart and return to Sanaa, a Houthi official said on anonymity.

Saudi Arabia is leading the Arab military coalition that intervened in Yemen in March 2015 to support the government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi after the Houthi rebels forced him into exile.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 01:05:12|Editor: yan

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JUBA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan's army said on Monday it is ready to probe the authenticity of reported allegations of brutal sexual violence against women and girls traveling from their villages to the town of Bentiu in the northern Unity region.

Lul Ruai Koang, spokesperson for the South Sudan People's Defense Forces (SSPDF), told Xinhua in Juba that the army's top echelon will verify a report by the international medical NGO Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) with its Southern Central Division Command.

"The effort is underway to verify the authenticity of these grave sexual violence alleged to have been committed by men in military uniforms with the command of the southern central division," Koang said.

According to the MSF report, about 125 women and girls have sought medical treatment after having been raped or otherwise sexually assaulted in a 10-day period as they walked along roads near Nhialdu and Guit on their way to Bentiu.

In a statement released on Friday, the MSF said the attacks were reported to have been perpetrated by young men in civilian clothing or military uniforms, saying besides the sexual assaults, they were also brutally beaten and robbed.

"Women and young girls have been coming to the MSF clinic in Bentiu over the past week after surviving horrific episodes of sexual violence," Ruth Okello, a midwife from MSF, said in the statement.

"Some girls are under 10 years old and others are women older than 65. Even pregnant women have not been spared from these brutal attacks," she added.

On Sunday, David Shearer, head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), condemned the alleged attacks and called on armed forces in the area to guarantee command and control over their troops to ensure rogue elements within their ranks are not involved in these type of criminal acts.

South Sudan descended into civil war in late 2013, and the conflict has created one of the worst refugee crises in Africa, as some 4 million South Sudanese are displaced internally and externally, according to UN estimates.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 01:10:14|Editor: Chengcheng

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WASHINGTON, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. State Department said on Monday that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo would participate in NATO foreign ministers' meetings in Brussels during Dec. 3-5.

According to a statement issued by State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert, Pompeo would participate in this semi-annual meeting to review progress made in implementing the agenda agreed by NATO heads of state and government at the Brussels Summit in July.

"Pompeo would renew our call that Allies shoulder a fair share of the burden of responsibility to protect against common threats," said the statement.

"This means living up to the pledge that all Allies made in 2014 and reaffirmed at the 2018 Brussels Summit to spend 2 percent of their GDP on defense by 2024 and to invest 20 percent of that in major equipment," it added.

Transatlantic security issues would also be discussed in this meeting, as well as NATO operations and partnerships, including NATO's deepening relationship with Georgia and Ukraine, according to the statement.

The statement noted that Pompeo would also meet with Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel to discuss how to cooperate on areas of mutual concern.

The U.S. administration has been criticizing European nations for failing to meet the official annual defense spending target of 2 percent of GDP set by NATO.

French President Emmanuel Macron said last month that he wanted "a real European army" to protect the Europeans from the United States and other nations, which U.S. President Donald Trump described as "very insulting."

"But perhaps Europe should first pay its fair share of NATO, which the U.S. subsidizes greatly!" Trump responded on his Twitter.

According to NATO figures, only five of 29 members met their defense spending targets this year -- Estonia, Greece, Latvia, Britain and the United States.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 01:15:18|Editor: yan

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KIEV, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has increased its presence in the Black Sea since Crimea crisis started in 2014, the Ukrainian government-run Ukrinform news agency said on Monday, citing NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

"NATO has built up its military presence in the Black Sea region. We also have a greater naval presence. Last year, the number of NATO warships in the Black Sea increased from 80 to 120," Stoltenberg was quoted as saying.

He said that the alliance would also continue to closely monitor the situation in the Sea of Azov.

Last week, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko urged NATO to deploy ships in the Sea of Azov amid Ukraine's tensions with Russia in the Kerch Strait near Crimea.

On Nov. 25, three Ukrainian naval ships attempting to sail through the Kerch Strait from the Black Sea to the Sea of Azov were seized by Russian forces for allegedly violating the Russian border.

The Ukrainian Navy said that it had informed Russia in advance of the passage, while Russia said it had received no such report and the ships ignored multiple warnings by the Russian border guards.

The standoff marked the latest incident in relations between Ukraine and Russia, which have been deteriorating since Crimea was incorporated into Russia in March 2014 following a local referendum, which was rejected by Ukraine.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 01:15:20|Editor: yan

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ADDIS ABABA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Ethiopian Ministry of Health on Monday launched a national Human Papilloma-Virus (HPV) vaccination program with an aim to protect some 1.1 million Ethiopian girls from cervical cancer during the current Ethiopian fiscal year.

Speaking at the lauch of the program, Ethiopia's Minister of Health Amir Aman stressed that "cervical cancer is preventable" if young girls are properly vaccinated.

The national HPV vaccination campaign targets to address some 1.1 million young girls during the current Ethiopian 2018/19 fiscal year so as to protect them from cervical cancer caused by HPV infection, Aman said.

The UN World Health Organization (WHO) identifies HPV infection as the major cause of approximately 68,000 cases of cervical cancer each year in Africa.

WHO, however, indicated that the figure most likely represents a conservative estimate due to the health challenges in health information systems and cancer registries in the African continent.

Despite cervical cancer is a preventable disease, it is the most common cause of cancer in the African continent where it accounts for 22 percent of all female cancers and 12 percent of all newly diagnosed cancer in both men and women every year, according to WHO.

Some 34 out of every 100,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in Africa, while 23 out of every 100,000 women die from cervical cancer every year in the continent.

Cervical cancer, which is caused by the sexually transmitted Human Papilloma-Virus (HPV), affects younger age groups as a result of early sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, and exposure to other sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, according to WHO.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 01:20:21|Editor: yan

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TEHRAN, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Iran is against a U.S.-drafted resolution seeking to condemn the Palestinian Hamas movement in the United Nations, Press TV reported on Monday.

In a telephone conversation with Ismail Haniyeh, head of the political bureau of the Islamic Hamas movement, on Monday, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif reaffirmed Iran's full support for the Palestinian people's rights.

Iran would do its utmost to prevent the ratification of the resolution at the UN General Assembly meeting, Zarif said.

Reportedly, the UN General Assembly plans to vote on Tuesday for the U.S. draft resolution to condemn Hamas "for repeatedly firing rockets into Israel and for inciting violence."Major Nepali and English broadsheet dailies published from Kathmandu on Monday have given the top priority to the conclusion of the Asia Pacific Summit in Kathmandu. They have given the utmost attention to the Good Governance Award given to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli by the controversial Universal Peace Federation that organised the event.

On the other hand, two police officials who were sacked for their alleged involvement in destroying the evidence that could be helpful in the investigation of Nirmala Pant rape and murder case have appealed for their reinstatement. Some major newspapers have published reports about their request on the front pages.

Few other issues from political, sociocultural and economic spheres have been featured on the front pages of daily newspapers today.

Important

The cost of PMs 0.1 million dollar award

The Himalayan Times reports in its lead story that Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli received USD 100,000 in the award from the controversial Universal Peace Federation, but it has also raised a serious ethical question.

Kantipur says many leaders of his Nepal Communist Party have expressed their dissatisfaction over the PMs decision to accept the award. Naya Patrika reports that the award cannot be evidence of his good governance as it was decided just after around four weeks of his appointment as the PM.

Rajdhani claims the organisers of the two-day event have also called the PM to make Nepal a Christian country. It also adds that the main opposition party, Nepali Congress, has vented ire over the issue.

Sacked Kanchanpur police officials demand reinstatement

Rajdhani, The Himalayan Times and The Kathmandu Post inform that sacked SP Dilli Raj Bista and Inspector Jagadish Prasad Bhatta have demanded that they get their job back. The two were sacked few weeks ago after investigations alleged them of destroying evidence of the Nirmala Pant murder case.

The two have sent their appeal to the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers through the Ministry of Home Affairs, according to the newspapers.

Meanwhile, Republica reports that medical education reform activist Dr Govinda KC has demanded that those involved in destroying the evidence be indicted in criminal cases.

Ignored

Mishras vested interest exposed weeks before retirement

Kantipur reports in a four column box story that Prime Minister OM Prakash Mishra has been accused of taking significant cases related to trade and finance controversies to his bench as he is heading towards retirement early next month.

The rate of business cases being featured on the daily cause lists has significantly increased in past few weeks, according to the report.

Madhav Kumar Nepal objects to NCP provincial panels

Though the ruling Nepal Communist Party was scheduled to make public the names of leaders included in its newly formed provincial committees on Sunday, it could not do so as the senior leader Madhav Kumar Nepal expressed his objections, Naya Patrika reports in a snippet.

Names of the members in provinces 1, 2, and 3 have been finalised so far, according to the day.

PM locks horns with four constitutional bodies

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli recently initiated a dispute with four constitutional bodiesthe Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority, the Election Commission, the Public Service Commission and the Office of Auditor Generalas he ordered them to report to him about pending issues, The Kathmandu Post reports.

The constitutional bodies, however, have decided to defy the all.

Govt lacks plan for Gautam Buddha International Airport

The Himalayan Times reports in a two column story that the government does not have any business plan for the operation of Gautam Buddha International Airport which it aims to open within next one year.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal is yet to estimate income and expenses of the airport, and it is likely to hit the business, according to the report.

Interesting

Single entity has 42 bank accounts

The Social Welfare Council, the government body formed to regulate national and international nongovernment organisations in the country, has as many as 42 bank accounts under its name, Annapurna Post reports in its anchor story.

The Councils officials have claimed that its funds are kept in separate accounts in order to ensure misuse of the funds.Russian tourists enjoy sunshine at a beach in Sanya, a coastal resort of south China's island province of Hainan, Jan. 4, 2007. (Xinhua/Huang Ju)

MOSCOW, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The visa-free regime for trips to the Chinese island of Hainan may boost the number of Russian tourists by up to one third this year, a Russian official said Monday.

"Any visa breaks give us 10 to 30 percent of growth," Yury Barzykin, vice president of the Russian Union of Travel Industry, said in an interview with Xinhua.

China put a visa-free policy into force on May 1 this year, which allows visitors from 59 countries to enter Hainan Province and stay there for 30 days visa-free.

Barzykin said Hainan is one of the most promising destinations for Russian tourists.

He said the developed infrastructure, various levels of hotels, comprehensive travel packages, picturesque beaches, sophisticated cuisine, original culture and cordiality make Hainan very attractive.

In 2017, more than 280,000 Russians visited Hainan during the winter holiday, including the New Year and Orthodox Christmas on Jan. 7, Barzykin said.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 02:20:33|Editor: yan

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RIGA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Latvian government will formulate its decision on the UN Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration after the parliament has voted on the proposed agreement, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics told reporters on Monday.

If lawmakers vote against its adoption, Latvia will not join the pact, the minister said.

Rinkevics voiced hope, though, that parliamentarians will give a serious thought to the document and agree on its adoption.

Rinkevics emphasized that Latvia would still be able to decide on its migration policy after joining the UN migration compact, and that the agreement would help combat crimes like human trafficking and smuggling.

"Today we agreed that the government would wait for the parliament's vote," Rinkevics said, adding that he personally believes that it would not be right for Latvia to reject the migration agreement and thus depart from the stance taken by most other countries in northern Europe. The foreign minister also fears that the refusal to join the document might hurt Latvia's reputation.

The Latvian parliament is scheduled to vote on the UN migration compact on Dec. 6.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 02:30:35|Editor: yan

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ZAGREB, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Workers from the biggest Croatian shipbuilding group Uljanik started yet another mass strike on Monday.

This is the fourth major strike this year in the company that is facing financial problems and uncertain future. The latest strike by Uljanik's workers, which began on October 20, was put on halt on November 19 after the new management of the company was elected. The workers were paid just a minimum wage for September and now they are demanding the rest of the pay, as well as unpaid salaries for October.

Boris Cerovac, president of the strike committee, told reporters on Monday that workers are aware that the strike could mean the end of the company.

"I hope that someone is willing to find a solution in a short time. Nevertheless, the problem is quite large and significant. We are approaching the bankruptcy," Cerovec said, N1 television reported. The workers, he said, no longer have the patience nor the strength to believe in the salvation of the shipyard.

For the first time the strike committee has decided to close all work in the shipyard. That means that the sub-contractors who were working in the shipyard are also forbidden to continue their work.

Currently, Uljanik is building the world's first polar discovery cruise ship, Scenic Eclipse. The new strike might fully stop the building which was already slowed down due to the previous strikes and it could have serious financial effects on the company.

Some Uljanik's clients have already terminated construction contracts of ships worth millions of euros due to the recent strikes.

Uljanik is the oldest shipyard in Croatia that has been in financial difficulties for several years. In the last 17 years, Croatia spent over 30 billion kuna (4.7 billion U.S. dollars) to save its shipyards, but state help is no longer possible after joining the European Union in 2013 since the EU rules don't allow state financial help.

The Croatian government and Uljanik's management still hope to restructure the company with a new partner who would cover the company's debts and invest money in the shipyard.

Minister of Economy Darko Horvat said on Monday that he doesn't support the new strike. "This strike was not supposed to happen because I believe that it will not solve Uljanik's problem," Horvat told reporters on Monday. He stressed that the financial burden of the fallen shipyard is on the government and that the government is searching for new partners who are willing to invest in Uljanik.

At the government session in October, Finance Minister Zdravko Maric said that from 2010 to September 2018, the government has issued 7.5 billion kuna (1.15 billion U.S. dollars) worth of guarantees for the Uljanik shipbuilding group. By the end of this year, at least 2.35 billion kuna (360 million U.S. dollars) would be paid from the state budget and that the amount could be even bigger.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 03:00:42|Editor: yan

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WASHINGTON, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Department of Defense on Monday confirmed the death of a U.S. soldier who was supporting U.S. military operation in Afghanistan.

A statement released by Pentagon said that a sergeant of U.S. Army died on Sunday in Germany, as a result of injuries sustained from a bomb attack last week in Ghazni Province, Afghanistan.

His death brought the death toll of U.S. service members in that attack to four.

Pentagon said last Wednesday that three service members, two soldiers and one airman, died on Nov. 27 when an improvised explosive device struck their vehicle in Andar, Ghazni Province, Afghanistan.

This attack also wounded three other U.S. service members and a U.S. military contractor, according to the official website of NATO Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan.

Taliban had claimed responsibility for the attack, saying a U.S. tank was completely destroyed, according to media reports.

The attack came after a U.S. service member was killed on Nov. 24 during an operation in Afghanistan, according to the official website of NATO Resolute Support Mission.

In November, a major of U.S. Army National Guard was killed in an insider attack launched by a member of the Afghan security forces.

The death toll of U.S. service members has surpassed 2,400 since the United States invaded Afghanistan in 2001.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 03:00:44|Editor: yan

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RABAT, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Moroccan King Mohammed VI on Monday visited Gabonese President Ali Bongo Ondimba at the military hospital of Rabat, official MAP news agency reported.

Bongo was hospitalized in Saudi Arabia in late October after suffering a stroke. On Wednesday, Moroccan Foreign Ministry said Bongo will receive treatment in Morocco.

During the visit, the king was informed about the health status of Bongo who is staying in Morocco for rehabilitation and recovery, MAP said.

The king wished swift recovery to Bongo.

Bongo has been president of Gabon since 2009. He was re-elected in 2016.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 03:20:48|Editor: yan

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LONDON, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- British Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday refused twice to say her much criticised Brexit deal would ensure that Britain will be better off after the departure from the European Union (EU), but predicted she will still be in her job in a fortnight, when the House of Commons will vote on the Britain-EU agreement.

Her prediction is seen as a possible sign she is planning a second Commons vote on her Brexit deal if it is defeated in eight days.

Asked on ITV's This Morning to assure the nation that it would be more prosperous under her leaving deal, the prime minister replied: "We can be better off."

UNCERTAIN WORDS

Asked to say again "we will be" better off, May just said: "That's up to us."

May's uncertain words came with just over a week to go before the vote in the Commons on whether to endorse her agreement on the terms Britain will leave the large trading bloc, plus an outline declaration on possible future trade terms.

At present, the prime minister faces growing political pressure in the run-up to the historic Commons vote on the Brexit withdrawal agreement on Dec. 11. The parliament will kick off a five-day debate on the controversial deal starting Tuesday.

The British government and the Bank of England both said in their separate reports last week that the country will be worse off after leaving the regional bloc on March 29 next year, in contrast to public expectations that the country will be able to take back its control and prosperous after the divorce.

Her uncertain and certain words came in both situations when she avoided giving direct answers to questions by the TV presenter.

Meanwhile, the prime minster was pressed by Phillip Schofield on the TV programme who asked: "In two weeks time, will you be booking a holiday, do you think you'll still have a job in two weeks time?"

Laughing, she assured him that she would still be in her post, adding: "My job is to ensure we do what the public asked us to."

"I will still have a job in two weeks' time," she said, calling on members of parliament to "hold our nerve."

The prime minister ducked direct questions if she would resign if her deal fell through, saying: "I'm focusing on, you know, getting that vote, and getting the vote over the line."

"This is not a, sort of 'oh, well, it's just any old vote'," she said. "Actually, this is about delivering for what people voted for when they voted in that referendum to leave the EU."

Ever since taking office in 2016 shortly after the Brexit referendum, the prime minister repeatedly pledged that her government will work very hard to deliver Brexit in accordance with the referendum outcome.

She dismissed calls for a second referendum, but left the door open for a possible change of mind. She also ruled out any possible amendment to the Brexit deal put to vote in the parliament.

GROWING PRESSURE

Also on Monday, senior Labour member of parliament, Yvette Cooper, appealed in the Standard Evening newspaper for the members of parliament on all sides to unite to prevent a no-deal Brexit.

Cooper said the parliament had to take control because May had "done so little to build trust or confidence so far."

Cooper also backed an extension of Article 50 to postpone Brexit, saying that "this is a mess and we are going to need enough time to sort it out."

The prime minister appeared to have given up attempting to unveil a tough clampdown on low-skilled immigration ahead of the Brexit vote.

British Home Secretary Sajid Javid on Monday admitted it was "very unlikely" that the long-delayed White Paper setting out a future immigration system would be revealed before it.

May is being defied by at least three cabinet members including Javid, who want low-skilled workers from overseas to be allowed in to prevent gaps in the workforce for sectors like social care and hospitality, according to the widely read newspaper.

"It's unlikely, actually very unlikely, to be published before the vote," Javid told Radio 4's Today programme. "It will be published soon."

Previously, the home secretary has said he thought it would come in time for members of parliament to weigh it up before voting on Brexit.

Downing Street on Monday defied warnings it will be held in contempt of Parliament by refusing to publish full legal advice about May's Brexit deal.

Labour, the Scottish National Party, the Liberal Democratics and the Democratic Unionists have signed a joint letter to John Bercow, the Commons speaker, suggesting the government was in contempt of parliament for failing to publish the full Brexit legal advice from British Attorney General Geoffrey Cox.

On Monday afternoon, Cox gave the Commons a pared-down statement setting out only what the government was prepared to reveal it was told.

But pressure rose after a new apparent leak in the Daily Telegraph, which said May's Brexit adviser Olly Robbins warned the backstop risked a "bad outcome" in which regulatory checks would be needed across the Irish Sea and security co-operation would be at risk.

In her statement to brief the parliament on her trip to the just concluded Group of 20 (G20) summit on Monday afternoon, the prime minister said that Britain will seek to set up new markets after Brexit.

Members of Parliament will vote on Dec.11 on the deal with British Environment Secretary Michael Gove warning on Sunday that if the deal did not get enough support "there is a chance of no Brexit at all or a second referendum."

May said, "When it comes to the vote, I hope MPs (members of parliament) will put the national interest first and recognise that we have a duty to do what the people asked us to."

She insisted that the Brexit deal is in the best interest of the country, including job and security.

During her appearance on ITV she was asked about her testing role as prime minister. She said, "Politics is tough. It's the same as any other job."

Responding to questions over a possible second referendum, she said, "People are talking on a second vote when we haven't even delivered on a first vote. We asked people to vote and we said please decide. People voted to leave and I think there is a democratic duty to deliver on it. So let's deliver on the first vote."

She was also asked about a television debate with Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn on Brexit which is penned for Dec.9.

Downing Street accused Corbyn on Sunday of "running scared" of a Brexit TV debate.

Corbyn said on Saturday that he was prepared to accept Downing Street's preferred option of the BBC, provided it was a straight head to head discussion between the two leaders.

The Labour leader had previously indicated his support for a rival ITV proposal based on a simple one-on-one format, in contrast to the BBC offer which also involves the leaders taking questions from a wider panel.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 03:20:49|Editor: yan

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PANAMA CITY, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday reached extensive consensus with his Panamanian counterpart, Juan Carlos Varela, on further promoting bilateral relations.

The two countries also issued a joint press communique to advance the development of their ties.

Xi arrived here on Sunday for a state visit to Panama, the first of its kind since China and the Central American country established diplomatic relations in June 2017.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 03:35:51|Editor: yan

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BERLIN, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- China's Kunqu opera (also as Kunju opera) classic "The Four Dreams of Linchuan" was staged in the theater of Berliner Festspiele in Berlin over the weekend, prompting a surge in the number of interested and even enthusiastic viewers.

"The Four Dreams of Linchuan", a masterpiece by Tang Xianzu (1550-1616) during the Ming Dynasty, is a collection of four major dramas including the most renowned "The Peony Pavilion" and others.

The four "dreams" were brought onto the stage of Berliner Festspiele in four separate performances on Saturday and Sunday by the Shanghai Kunju Opera Troupe. To help audience better understand the storylines and the artistic styles of Kunqu, Berliner Festspiele hosted many introduction sessions as well as workshops.

When the last drama, "The Peony Pavilion" ended, wild applauses and cheers turned into a standing ovation as the curtain dropped and raised again for several times and the actor and actress saluting the audience in Kunqu-style figures.

"The Peony Pavilion" depicts a love story that transcends time and space, life and death, and it became classic.

Lara Messante, a local viewer, told Xinhua that "It's a human story, a story that may happen everywhere." She said, the only difference between the East and the West lies in the artistic presentation. While European operas are more "expressionist" in revealing people's feelings, Chinese operas use many styles.

Thomas Oberender, director of Berliner Festspiele, told Xinhua that such a sophisticated art form, including its music, visuals and acrobatics, is inspiring for western contemporary art. Germany audience liked this art form of talking with symbols.

Commenting on the opera "The Four Dreams of Linchuan", Oberender said, "It's very close to our western narration of 'life is dream', and for me it's very interesting to get to learn this artistic language which is close to our silent film tradition. "

Gu Haohao, director of the Shanghai Kunju Opera Troupe and also an award-winning Kunqu artist, said she has been observing the audience throughout the four shows, and the enthusiasm of local audience is never seen before since she first stepped onto the European stage 17 years ago.

"Now more and more people appreciate the aesthetics of traditional Chinese operas," she said.

Kunqu opera combines literary texts, music, costume designs and performances, and was listed as a world intangible cultural heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2001.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 03:45:54|Editor: yan

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MADRID, Dec.3 (Xinhua) -- Spain has received a total of 73.9 million international tourists in the first 10 months of the year, Spain's Statistical Office (INE) reported on Monday.

The figure is 0.5 percent higher than that of the same period in 2017. Visitors from Britain reached 16.7 million, followed by French and the Germans, the INE said, while pointing out that Spain's northeastern region of Catalonia had been chosen as the main destination, receiving more than 17.1 million international tourists from January to October.

The INE also reported that in the first 10 months of the year, international tourists spent 79.92 billion euros (90.71 billion US dollars) in the country, which meant a 2.7 percent rise when compared with the same period of a year earlier.

As for October, Spain received 7.6 million international visitors, which meant a 5 percent rise year-on-year. They spent 8.15 billion euros, meaning a 4.6 percent increase when compare with October, 2017.

Spain's State Secretary for Tourism Isabel Oliver said in a statement that this data was "excellent news". (1 euro = 1.14 U.S. dollars)Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 03:50:56|Editor: yan

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JOHANNESBURG, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- South Africa's ruling party African National Congress (ANC) will host a three-day BRICS political parties plus dialogue starting Tuesday, the party's chairperson of International Relations subcommittee Lindiwe Zulu said on Monday at a media briefing in Johannesburg.

Zulu said the meeting will be attended by more than 200 delegates from the political parties of the BRICS, which groups Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, and other fraternal parties from Africa.

"The objective of the dialogue is to come up with a possible common approach to deal with economic and political challenges to strengthen multilateralism and fourth industrial revolution. It is envisaged that the dialogue will reach an agreement encapsulated in the Johannesburg Declaration," Zulu said.

Zulu said they will discuss threats to the BRICS members and seek solutions against rising nationalism, isolationism, and reiterate South Africa's call to embrace multilateralism.

The political parties will affirm their support for the rules based on multilateral trading system as embodied in the World Trade Organization to ensure global trade flows, transparency, non-discriminatory practice, and open and inclusive international trade, she said.

Zulu emphasized that they will learn from each other's best practices in governance issues. "The ANC as South Africa's governing party hopes that the engagement will lead to ground breaking measures which will translate into tangible programs to tackle poverty and economy challenges through the African continent."Home  Just In  President Bhandari urges NRNs to help bring capital and technology home

Warsaw, December 3

President Bidya Devi Bhandari has called on Nepalis outside the country to support Nepal in its journey towards peace and prosperity.

President Bhandari, who was speaking at a programme organised by NRNA Poland and the Nepali Embassy in Germany, urged the non-resident Nepali community transfer capital and technology to Nepal for its development.

Bhandari, who will participate in the formal ceremony of the UNFCC COP24 Climate Change Summit later in the day, underlined the need to expand Nepal-Poland relations to the peoples level. Minister for Forests and Environment Shakti Bahadur Basnet sought support from all in Nepals march towards prosperity.

According to NRNA Poland, there are around 9,000 Nepalis living in Poland.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 03:55:59|Editor: yan

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RABAT, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Morocco's navy have rescued 133 migrants since Saturday off the country's northern and southern coasts, the Moroccan army said Monday.

The rescue came when the migrants' boats ran into trouble while heading to Spanish southern coasts and Canary Islands, the army said.

The rescued migrants were provided with necessary medical care and carried safely to neighboring ports, it added.

Morocco has witnessed a significant hike in illegal immigration attempts in 2018.

According to the Interior Ministry, Morocco has foiled more than 76,000 illegal immigration attempts between January and November.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 04:16:04|Editor: yan

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WASHINGTON, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- U.S. State Department said on Monday it was disappointed that Central European University (CEU) could not continue its U.S.-accredited programs in Hungary.

The U.S. government was disappointed that the Hungarian government and CEU failed to reach the agreement that would allow the university to continue its U.S.-accredited programs in Hungary, according to a statement issued by the State Department.

"Since the Hungarian government amended its law on higher education in April 2017, we have worked diligently with both parties to find a solution that would allow CEU to preserve these programs in Hungary," said State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert in a statement.

CEU, founded by Hungarian-American businessman George Soros, said on Monday it was forced to announce that it would launch all U.S.-accredited degree programs in Vienna in September 2019, according to the official website of CEU.

"The departure of these U.S.-accredited programs from Hungary will be a loss for the CEU community, for the United States, and for Hungary," Nauert said.

CEU's departure was reportedly the reflection of conflict between Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and George Soros.

The Hungarian government accused Soros of interference in domestic affairs through non-governmental organizations (NGOs) funded by the billionaire, according to media reports.

Last week, U.S. State Department said it was disappointed in Hungary's recent decision to extradite two suspected Russian arms dealers required by the U.S. side to Russia.

A spokesman for the Hungarian government was quoted by Reuters as saying that his country made the extradition decision based on international laws.

He also noted that Washington had rejected eight of nine extradition requests from the European nation in the past five years.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 04:21:06|Editor: yan

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KIEV, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Kiev has lodged a protest at the International Maritime Organization over the seizure of Ukrainian ships and sailors by Russia in the Kerch Strait, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said on Monday.

"The delegation of Ukraine expressed its strong protest to the Russian Federation in connection with the armed attack and capture of the three Ukrainian Navy ships as well as capturing of members of their crews," the ministry said on Facebook.

Kiev also condemned the inspection of commercial vessels heading to Ukrainian ports through the Kerch Strait, it said.

On Nov. 25, three Ukrainian naval ships and more than 20 sailors attempting to sail through the Kerch Strait from the Black Sea to the Sea of Azov were seized by Russian forces for allegedly violating the Russian border.

The Ukrainian Navy said that it had informed Russia in advance of the passage, while Russia said it had received no such report and the ships ignored multiple warnings by the Russian border guards.

Ukraine has accused Moscow of "aggressive actions" in the Sea of Azov after Russia inaugurated a bridge over the Kerch Strait in May this year and started inspecting commercial ships sailing through the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait.

Russia said the inspections of ships are aimed at ensuring security in the waters of the Azov Sea and the Kerch Strait and do not violate international law.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 04:26:07|Editor: yan

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KIGALI, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- At least 197 Rwandan companies have been suspended recently from doing business with the Rwandan government over breach of contracts and falsification during the bidding process of government tenders, Rwanda Public Procurement Authority said on Monday.

These companies will no longer be eligible to do business with the government during the period of suspension ranging between six months to five years, Augustus Seminega, director general of the procurement agency told the state radio, Radio Rwanda.

All procuring entities will not award contracts to the suspended companies, invite bids from them or enter into any business with them during their suspension, he said.

The blacklisted companies, which can challenge the decision in courts, will be posted on the portal of the agency, he added.

A report of Office of the Auditor General of Rwanda on government expenditure during the 2016/2017 fiscal year shows that contractors had delayed or abandoned a total of 109 projects worth over 235 million U.S. dollars.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 04:26:07|Editor: yan

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ATHENS, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Greece has entered the final stretch towards the start of hydrocarbons exploration drilling in the Ionian sea in western Greece in 2019, while at least 500 million euros (567.6 million U.S. dollars) are expected to be invested on the entire project over the next seven to eight years.

The announcement was made by Yannis Bassias, president of Hellenic Hydrocarbon Resources Management (HHRM) during a recent Eastern Mediterranean Forum on energy law in Athens.

The countdown to the beginning of oil exploration drillings in the Gulf of the city port of Patras and off Katakolo town in western Peloponnese peninsula has commenced, local daily "To Vima" (The Tribune) reported on Monday, citing officials of the HHRM, the state-run company which since its establishment in 2011 has negotiated exploration licenses to exploit Greece's hydrocarbon resources.

Greece consumes 330,000 barrels of oil on average every day, while 4,000 barrels of oil are produced at Prinos village in northern Greece and it is about time to act and close the gap, Yannis Grigoriou, CEO of HHRM Upstream, an HHRM subsidiary, told " To Vima".

The consortium of Hellenic Petroleum and Italy's Edison is planning the first exploration drilling in 2019 in the West Patras Gulf, where it is estimated that there are reserves of up to 140 million barrels of oil, according to Bassias.

In Katakolo, which has been assigned to Energean, some 10.5 million barrels have been confirmed and production is expected to start in 2020 , he told the forum in Athens.

Bassias emphasized that few companies have the technology and know-how to search in the great depths of the Ionian and Cretan Seas in southern Greece, while the technology that will allow drilling at depths greater than 3,000 meters is expected to be available at the time when it will be decided if oil and gas production is actually feasible.

Therefore, Greece will serve as a proving ground for the new technology, he said.

The Greek parliament is expected to ratify in coming weeks the licensing contracts for hydrocarbon exploration in the Ionian Sea off the shores of Corfu island(a consortium of Hellenic Petroleum and REPSOL), west and northwest of Crete (a Total/Exxon/Hellenic Petroleum Consortium) and Block 10 (Hellenic Petroleum) , Greek national news agency AMNA reported. (1 euro= 1.13 U.S. dollars)Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 04:41:09|Editor: Chengcheng

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Palestinian medics carry a wounded man during clashes with Israeli troops on a beach near the maritime border with Israel, in the northern Gaza Strip, Dec. 3, 2018. Four Palestinians were shot and injured on Monday evening during clashes with Israeli soldiers in the northern Gaza Strip close to the border with Israel, the health ministry said. (Xinhua/Stringer)

GAZA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Four Palestinians were shot and injured on Monday evening during clashes with Israeli soldiers in the northern Gaza Strip close to the border with Israel, the health ministry said.

Ashraf al-Qedra, spokesman of the Health Ministry in Gaza, told reporters that the four moderately injured were transferred to a hospital in the northern Gaza Strip.

Meanwhile, local media and eyewitnesses said dozens of people suffered suffocation after inhaling the tear gas fired by the Israeli soldiers stationed on the border with the Gaza Strip.

Protests have been organized every Monday and Friday since the beginning of the Great March of Return rally on March 30, calling for the end of Israeli blockade imposed on Gaza since 2007.

According to the Health Ministry, at least 223 Palestinians have been killed and about 24,000 others injured since the Palestinian mass rally.

Leaders of the Palestinian factions, including Hamas which rules the Gaza Strip, insist that anti-Israel marches, rallies and protests will go on until the goal of ending the Israeli siege is achieved.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 05:01:13|Editor: Chengcheng

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SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Marriott-affiliated hotel and hospitality workers in San Francisco reached a tentative agreement with the Marriott management to end a 61-day lengthy strike on Monday, organizers announced.

UNITE HERE Local 2, a union of hospitality workers in San Francisco and San Mateo counties in northern California, said Monday they had struck the agreement with Marriott to end the city's largest hotel strike in decades.

"Through two months on #MarriottStrike, our resolve never wavered. When we fight, we win!" UNITE HERE Local 2@UniteHereLocal2 tweeted.

The union said the strike, which started on Oct. 4 and spanned seven San Francisco Marriott hotels, entered its third month before the agreement was signed on Monday morning.

"This hard-fought contract sets a new and transformative standard for SF's hotel industry," said the union.

Nearly 2,500 Marriott employees participated in the massive demonstrations, who camped in front of the Palace Hotel in the city's downtown area and other hotels including the Courtyard Marriott Downtown and the Marriott Marquis.

The workers had demanded higher pay, better health benefits and less strenuous workload.

Details of the agreement were not disclosed immediately, but the workers would return to work on Wednesday if they voted in favor of the accord, a union leader said.

San Francisco Mayor London Breed praised the workers and Marriott for reaching a settlement of the months-long industrial action.

"In this time of rising inequality, it is crucial that our workers are able to earn a fair wage that allows them to live and support their families in the increasingly expensive Bay Area," she tweeted.

She said she supported the workers to fight for "better wages, healthcare, and job security."

The San Francisco protest was part of a national strike that had spread earlier this year to eight cities such as Boston in Massachusetts, San Diego in southern California, Oakland and San Jose in northern California, as well as Detroit in Michigan.

Strikes in other locations have ended after the protesters reached agreements with the hotel management in the past few weeks.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 05:01:13|Editor: Chengcheng

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Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic (R) meets with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in Zagreb, Croatia, on Dec. 3, 2018. The two-day summit of the Central European Initiative (CEI) started here on Monday. Prime ministers of six European nations and other high representatives came to discuss security issues and economy. (Xinhua/Patrik Macek)

ZAGREB, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The prime ministers of Hungary and Croatia agreed on Monday that the main problem in the relations between the two countries is the management of the Croatian oil company INA of which Hungary's MOL is the biggest shareholder.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban was among the leaders who arrived here on Monday for a two-day summit of the Central European Initiative (CEI) which started here on Monday. Prime ministers of six European nations and other high representatives came to discuss security issues and economy.

In 2003, MOL acquired 25 percent plus one share in INA and it became the largest shareholder of the company in 2008, after raising its stake to 47.16 percent via voluntary public offer.

"Decisions need to be made at the company level," Orban said, adding that if the two sides cannot cooperate in the company, then they have to go separate ways. "In this case, that means that Croatia could buy MOL's shares in the company," said Orban.

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic confirmed on Monday that the government's position has not changed. Croatia still wants to buy MOL shares, but the key issue is to agree on the price.

It was Orban's first visit to Croatia in the last seven years. On Monday, he said that no economic issue could be more important than centuries of common history between two neighboring states. He stressed that he hopes to bring the relations back to the normal.

The CEI is a forum of regional cooperation in central, eastern and southeastern Europe which sums 18 members. As the chair of the CEI this year, Croatia is hosting a meeting where the prime ministers are expected to exchange views on the role of the CEI members in "building security, boosting economy, enabling prosperity".Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 05:11:16|Editor: yan

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Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) holds talks with his Panamanian counterpart Juan Carlos Varela in Panama City, Panama, on Dec. 3, 2018. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

PANAMA CITY, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday reached extensive consensus with his Panamanian counterpart, Juan Carlos Varela, on further promoting bilateral relations.

Xi arrived here on Sunday for a state visit to Panama, the first of its kind since China and the Central American country established diplomatic relations in June 2017.

During their talks on Monday, the two leaders spoke highly of the momentum of bilateral relations and cooperation results since the forging of diplomatic ties.

Xi hailed the strong start of bilateral relations highlighted by the exchange of visits of the two presidents and the deepening of mutual political trust.

He also lauded the rapid development of bilateral cooperation in various fields and the achievements made so far led by the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative.

Facts have proven and will continue to prove that the establishment of diplomatic relations is an absolutely correct decision and will benefit the two peoples.

Cementing and developing the China-Panama friendly relations is China's unwavering diplomatic principle regardless of the changes in international situations, the Chinese president stressed.

China supports Panama's efforts in safeguarding the country's security and stability, improving its people's livelihood and increasing its international influence, and in playing a bigger role in promoting regional economic integrity and connectivity, Xi said.

The two countries also issued a joint press communique on Monday to advance the development of their ties.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 05:16:17|Editor: yan

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TIRANA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Parliament in Albania approved on Monday with 76 votes pro and no vote against the Budget and Fiscal Package for 2019.

The budget was approved only with the votes of the majority because the opposition boycotted the session.

According to the Albanian Minister of Finance and Economy, Arben Ahmetaj, the 2019 budget will enable the country's economy to grow in all categories, with direct impact on citizens, from wage increase to Value Added Tax deduction for agricultural inputs.

During the discussion, Ahmetaj explained that the 2019 budget will finance over 2 billion Albanian lek (about 18.2 million U.S. dollars) to increase salaries for over 60,000 employees in the country.

The increase, according to Ahmetaj, will go the employees in health care by 7 percent, in the education field to teachers and pre-university staff by 7 percent, for the defense sector that will benefit from a growth of 10 to 19 percent and to the employees of diplomatic missions that will receive an increase of 20 percent.

"I am proud of a budget that next year will enable the further reduction of public debt and the continuation of fiscal consolidation, investments in large public works in favor of citizens, for improving infrastructure," added the minister after the approval of 2019 budget.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 05:21:19|Editor: ZD

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Saudi Minister of Commerce and Investment Majid bin Abdullah al Qassabi (4th L) and Algerian Minister of Industry and Mines Youcef Yousfi (3rd R) attend the 12th Algerian-Saudi Business Forum in Algiers, Algeria, Dec. 3, 2018. Algeria and Saudi Arabia on Monday agreed to launch five economic projects during the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. The five projects were agreed upon at the 12th Algerian-Saudi Business Forum held in the capital Algiers earlier in the day. (Xinhua)

ALGIERS, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Algeria and Saudi Arabia on Monday agreed to launch five economic projects during the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud.

The five projects, due to be launched in 2019, were agreed upon at the 12th Algerian-Saudi Business Forum held in the capital Algiers earlier in the day.

These projects are about the manufacture of inorganic chemicals, chlorine and caustic soda used for water purification, which include a pharmaceutical industry project worth 10 million U.S. dollars, a healthy-paper plant worth 20 million dollars, and a project for the production of juices.

Algerian Minister of Industry and Mines Youcef Yousfi, co-chair of the forum, said these projects are part of his country's will to develop partnership with Saudi Arabia.

The industrial sector is on the top list of the partnership with Saudi Arabia with 12 projects worth about 100 million dollars, involving the fields of chemicals, construction, food industry, as well as iron and steel, he added.

During his meeting with Algerian and Saudi media, writers and intellectuals, Saudi Information Minister Awad bin Saleh al-Awad urged the strengthening of relations between the two countries with more cooperation, mutual visits and programs.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud wrapped up a two-day official visit to Algeria on Monday.

During the visit, the Saudi crown prince met with Algerian Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia to discuss bilateral relations, developments of the oil market, and international and regional issues of common interest including the situation in Palestine, Libya, Syria and Yemen.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 05:46:26|Editor: Lu Hui

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A visitor reads exhibition materials at Mater Dei Hospital in Msida, Malta, Nov. 21, 2018. People showed interest in the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as they visited the "Benevolence and Healing Art" TCM exhibition at Malta's main hospital Mater Dei. The exhibition showed the TCM history, its specific characteristics, healing techniques, achievements and worldwide application with pictures and posters to publicize the traditional Chinese medicine in Malta. (Xinhua/Yuan Yun)

VALLETTA, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- People have showed great interest as they filled the vast entrance hall of Malta's main hospital Mater Dei to visit the exhibition of traditional Chinese medicine "Benevolence and Healing Art".

The recent exhibition showed the history of traditional Chinese medicine, its specific characteristics, techniques, achievements and world-wide application with pictures and posters to help raise awareness about traditional Chinese medicine in Malta.

It "is the first large-scale traditional Chinese medicine exhibition " hosted by China's medical team to Malta. "It has marks the extension from Traditional Chinese Medicine services to cultural exchanges," said Shi Jiangfeng, leader of the team right now.

Some of the visitors have experienced the benefits of traditional Chinese medicine.

Suncica Brajkovic and Jelena Maksovis, both nurses of St. James' Hospital, came to the exhibition after a night shift. Despite the fatigue, they were still interested in the show.

49-year-old Brajkovic started acupuncture treatment more than two months ago for back pain. After the first treatment, Brajkovic felt her condition had improved. As the pain eased, she felt much better and could do yoga again.

"Acupuncture is the best treatment I have ever received. I want to introduce traditional Chinese Medicine to everyone I know!"said Brajkovic. She had recommended acupuncture to her family, colleagues and friends.

Maksovis, Brajkovic's best friend, had also been plagued by shoulder and neck pain. The pain returned after a surgery.

After receiving four acupuncture treatments, Maksovis felt her pain was alleviated a lot."I have more energy, and my mood is much better," she said.

As medical professionals, they hoped to further understand the theory and principles of traditional Chinese medicine.

"The traditional Chinese medicine exhibition is very interesting and very educational," said Maksovis. "Traditional Chinese medicine is a very special and very good treatment, but there are still many people who don't know (it)..., we should let more people know about it."

Many people wrote down their feelings and suggestions on the visitor's book.

Francesca Gaggio from the University of Bologna in Italy wrote: "I think it's a fantastic event. I never saw it in Italy and I wish it would happen!"

The exhibition will last until December 10.Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 06:06:32|Editor: yan

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BUCHAREST, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- "Charming Beijing", a tourism promotion event, kicked off on Monday at the Promenada Mall in northern Bucharest, the capital of Romania, and was attended by officials from both China and Romania.

"Beijing wants to serve as a window. Through this window, people in Romania can see more about Beijing and China," said Zhao Li, Chinese cultural counselor in Romania, at the opening ceremony.

Iulia Dangulea, an counsellor from Romania's Ministry of Tourism, also said on the occasion that "Romania is committed to strengthening cooperation with China and attaches great importance to developing relations with China in various fields."

According to her, there is a lot of space for promoting tourism between Romania and China, and the Belt and Road Initiative can be a way of boosting tourism in both countries.

In a symbolic gesture, officials from the Beijing Municipal Commission of Tourism Development, the Romanian Ministry of Tourism and the Chinese Embassy cut a ribbon, meaning the event is open to the public.

During the promotion event, visitors can watch a documentary film about Beijing and enjoy the splendid view of the Chinese capital city, its buildings and beautiful landmarks, including the Great Wall.

People can also enjoy the Beijing tourism photo exhibition, see Chinese calligraphy and take pictures dressed in traditional Chinese costumes. Besides, they can taste some of the best Chinese traditional foods.

Official statistics showed that in 2017 over 33,000 Chinese tourists came to Romania, an increase of more than 30 percent over the previous year. In the same year, 12,000 Romanians visited China.

"Charming Beijing" is part of the events with the theme "2018 EU-China Tourism Year."Source: Xinhua| 2018-12-04 06:06:35|Editor: Lu Hui

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NEW YORK, Dec. 3 (Xinhua) -- Oil prices rose on Monday, as the world's two largest economies agreed not to impose new additional tariffs and Doha decided to end its 57-year membership in OPEC.

The U.S. and China agreed not to impose new additional tariffs, and instructed the economic teams of both sides to step up negotiations toward the removal of all additional tariffs and reach a concrete deal that's mutually beneficial and win-win.

Analysts say investors sentiment has been lifted because oil markets were also driven by optimism following the talks between the two leaders, which exceeded market expectations.

Qatar announced on Monday that it was set to withdraw from OPEC on Jan. 1, 2019, wrapping up its 57-year membership of the oil cartel.

The announcement came three days ahead of a meeting of the Saudi-led OPEC and its allies to reshape global oil policy amid persistent concerns over a supply glut.

Qatar's Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad al-Kaabi said Doha would attend OPEC's upcoming meeting on Thursday in Vienna, yet made an implicit criticism against Riyadh.

"We are not saying we are going to get out of the oil business but it is controlled by an organization managed by a country," Kaabi said in a press conference.

The decision "does come at a time when OPEC needs to hammer out a deal in the face of market skepticism in the cartel's ability to control production," said Ann-Louise Hittle, head of macro oils service at Wood Mackenzie, an Edinburgh-based global energy research and consultancy firm, in a press release.

Although Qatar is OPEC's smallest Middle East oil producer, it's currently the world's biggest liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter.

"Within the complex geo-politics inside OPEC and the focus on oil, the Qatari position is not a surprise. Their stated position is to focus on expanding their LNG portfolio. This makes sense," Albert Helmig, CEO of Grey House, a private consulting firm focused on market structure, risk management and price models, told Xinhua.

Helmig note that despite investors' anticipation of an OPEC announcement of a production cut, adding that the market has been very cautious and "awaiting more details of size and timing of a production change."

The West Texas Intermediate for January delivery rose 2.02 U.S. dollars to settle at 52.95 dollars a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange, while Brent crude for January delivery increased 2.23 dollars to close at 61.69 dollars a barrel on the London ICE Futures Exchange.Deputatii PAS au votat legea majorarii varstei de pensionare

Incepand cu 1 ianuarie 2022, varsta standard de pensionare pentru barbati va fi de 63 de ani, iar stagiul complet de cotizare  34 de ani. Pentru femei, varsta standard de pensionare de 63 de ani se va aplica incepand cu 1 iulie 2028, iar stagiul complet de cotizare, de 34 [citeste mai departe]Unluckily for the Redskins, their playoff future rests on Colt McCoy's arm. Read more

Its better to be in the NFC than good. Thats the takeaway from a wild Sunday that left the Eagles as one of the few winners in a playoff race that seems destined to come down to Week 17. Just three days ago, it would have sounded silly to even consider this sort of thing. The Cowboys win over the Saints on Thursday night left the Eagles looking like they would need to win out to make the playoffs. But after a Sunday that saw the Bears, Panthers, Vikings, and Packers all lose, a new path to the postseason has suddenly emerged.

Here is what it looks like:

1. Eagles beat the Redskins twice, the Cowboys, and the Texans to finish at 9-7.

2. Panthers lose twice to the Saints or split with the Saints and lose one to the Falcons. Panthers finish at 8-8

3. Vikings lose at Seattle in Week 14 and home against the Bears in Week 17. Vikings finish at 8-7-1.

4. The Seahawks win in San Francisco and at home against the Cardinals, in addition to the win over the Vikings at home. They finish at 10-6.

If all four of those hypotheticals occur, and the Cowboys did not lose another game, the four division winners would be the Rams, Saints, Cowboys, and Bears. The Seahawks would take home the first wild card at 10-6, and the Eagles would finish a half game ahead of Minnesota. Even if the Redskins won the rest of their games, they would finish at 9-7 and lose the tiebreaker to the Eagles by virtue of the Eagles season sweep of the series. The Panthers and Packers would finish with no more than eight wins apiece.

Heres what it looks like on a team-by-team basis:

Rams (11-1)

Likely wins remaining: at Cardinals (Week 16), vs. 49ers (17)

Decisive games: at Bears (14), vs. Eagles (15)

Likeliest outcome: 14-2

Worst outcome: 13-3

Analysis: The Rams are getting one of the conferences two byes. The Eagles path to the playoffs still largely depends on them beating the Rams in Week 15.

Saints (10-2)

Likely wins remaining: at Bucs (14)

Decisive games: at Panthers (15), vs. Steelers (16), vs. Panthers (17)

Likely outcome: 13-3

Worst outcome: 11-5

Analysis: Crazier things have happened than the Saints losing three out of four, but the odds still say New Orleans is a heavy favorite to finish as one of the top two seeds in the conference.

Bears (8-4)

Likely wins remaining: at 49ers (16)

Decisive games: vs. Rams (14), vs. Packers (15), at Vikings (17)

Likeliest outcome: 10-6

Worst outcome: 8-8

Analysis: Chicago has beaten just two teams with a winning record this season, one of them way back in Week 2, against the Seahawks. The Bears have played, by far, the easiest schedule in the NFC to date, with their eight victories coming against teams that entered Sunday with an average of 4.1 wins.

Cowboys (7-5)

Likely wins remaining: vs. Bucs (16)

Decisive games: vs. Eagles (14), at Colts (15), at Giants (17)

Likeliest outcome: 9-7

Worst outcome: 8-8

Analysis: If the Eagles win in Dallas, theres a decent chance the Cowboys are heading into MetLife Stadium in Week 17 with an 8-7 record, the assumption being that the Colts take care of business at home in Week 15. The Eagles would own a head-to-head tiebreaker over the Cowboys based on their division record.

Seahawks (6-5)

Likely wins remaining: vs. 49ers (13), at 49ers (15), vs. Cardinals (17)

Decisive games: vs. Vikings (14), vs. Chiefs (16)

Likeliest outcome: 10-6

Worst outcome: 9-7

Analysis: Things could get really interesting if Seattle loses one of their gimmes or at home to the Vikings next week.

Panthers (6-6)

Likely wins remaining: at Browns (14)

Decisive games: vs. Saints (15), vs. Falcons (16), at Saints (17)

Likeliest outcome: 9-7

Worst outcome: 7-9

Analysis: The Eagles could end up having a lot riding on a Week 17 game in which the Saints might not have anything to play for.

Redskins (6-5)

Likely wins remaining: None.

Decisive games: at Eagles (13), vs. Giants (14), at Jaguars (15), at Titans (16), vs. Eagles (17)

Likeliest outcome: 8-8

Worst outcome: 6-10

Analysis: If the Eagles take care of business in their two games against Washington, that should take care of the Redskins.

Vikings (6-5-1)

Likely wins remaining: vs. Dolphins (15), at Lions (16)

Decisive games: at Seahawks (14), vs. Bears (17)

Likeliest outcome: 9-6-1

Worst outcome: 8-7-1

Analysis: Minnesotas loss to the Patriots on Sunday was a near-necessity for the Eagles. Next up is a loss in Seattle, which would likely leave them heading into a Week 17 matchup with the Bears needing a win to finish ahead of a 9-7 Eagles team.

Packers (4-7-1)

Likely wins remaining: at Jets (16), vs. Lions (17)

Decisive games: vs. Falcons (14), at Bears (15)

Likeliest outcome: 78-1

Worst outcome: 6-9-1

Analysis: The Packers loss to the Cardinals on Sunday marked the end of the Mike McCarthy era in Green Bay.

For the Eagles, the likeliest outcome remains a Week 17 that will leave everybodys nails gnawed down to the cuticles, and, afterward, a sickening realization that their come-from-ahead loss to the Panthers in Week 7 ended up being the difference between participating in the playoffs and watching from home. Then again, if there is one thing that Week 13 has taught us, its that, apart from the Rams, none of these teams deserves the benefit of the doubt.A demonstrator holds a placard which reads 'climate first, politics second' during a 'Claim the Climate' march in Brussels, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018. The climate change conference, COP24, will take place in Poland from Dec. 2-14. (AP Photo/Geert Vanden Wijngaert) Read more

KATOWICE, Poland (AP)  Negotiators from around the world began two weeks of talks on curbing climate change Sunday, three years after sealing a landmark deal in Paris that set a goal of keeping global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit).

Envoys from almost 200 nations gathered in Poland's southern city of Katowice, a day earlier than originally planned because of the large number of issues that need to be resolved by Dec. 14.

"We are here to enable the world to act together on climate change," said Poland's environmental envoy, Michal Kurtyka, who is presiding over the U.N. meeting, known as COP24.

With further meetings next year meant to build on what's decided in Katowice, he urged all countries to "show creativity and flexibility."

"The United Nations secretary-general is counting on us, all of us to deliver," Kurtyka said. "There is no Plan B."

Ministers and some heads of government plan to join the discussion Monday, when host Poland is expected to push for a declaration ensuring a "just transition" for fossil fuel industries that face cuts and closures amid efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The meeting received a boost over the weekend when 19 major economies at the G-20 summit affirmed their commitment to the 2015 Paris climate accord. The only holdout was the United States, which announced under President Donald Trump that it is withdrawing from the climate pact.

"Despite geopolitical instability, the climate consensus is proving highly resilient," said Christiana Figueres, a former head of the U.N. climate office.

"It is sad that the federal administration of the United States, a country that is increasingly feeling the full force of climate impacts, continues to refuse to listen to the objective voice of science when it comes to climate change," Figures said.

She cited a recent expert report warning of the consequences of letting average global temperatures rise beyond 1.5 degrees C (2.7 degrees F).

"The rest of the G-20 have not only understood the science, they are taking actions to both prevent the major impacts and strengthen their economies," said Figueres, who now works with Mission 2020, a group that campaigns to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The meeting in Katowice is regarded as a key test of countries' willingness to back their lofty but distant goals with concrete measures, some of which are already drawing fierce protests . At the top of the agenda is the so-called Paris rulebook , which will determine how governments record and report their greenhouse emissions and efforts to cut them.

Separately, negotiators will discuss ramping up countries' national emissions targets after 2020, and financial support for poor nations that are struggling to adapt to climate change.

The shift away from fossil fuels, which scientists say has to happen by 2050, is expected to require a major overhaul of world economies.

"The good news is that we do know a lot of what we need to be able to do to get there," said David Waskow of the World Resources Institute.

Waskow, who has followed climate talks for years, said despite the Trump administration's refusal to back this global effort the momentum is going in the right direction.

"It's not one or two players anymore in the international arena," he said. "It's what I think you could call a distributed leadership, where you have a number of countries  some of them small or medium-sized  really making headway and doing it in tandem with cities and states and businesses."

Not far from the meeting venue, environmental activists held a small protest Sunday to call for an end to coal mining in Poland, which gets some 80 percent of its energy from coal. Katowice is in the heart of Poland's coal mining region of Silesia, and there are several active mines in and around the city.

Marches aimed at showing support for ending the use of coal-fired power plants and other efforts to limit climate change drew thousands of people over the weekend in Brussels, Berlin and Cologne.

But the governor of Germany's most populous state said Sunday it was premature to set a firm date for phasing out the use of coal-fired power plants. Armin Laschet, the governor of North Rhine-Westphalia state, said Germany's decision to stop mining and burning lignite coal "must be considered seriously and decided with broad consensus."

German officials had hoped to present a blueprint for the country's exit from coal at the meeting in Katowice but an expert committee has delayed issuing its recommendations until next year.

___

Follow Frank Jordans on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/wirereporter

___

Read more stories on climate issues by The Associated Press at https://www.apnews.com/ClimateCecilia, an undocumented immigrant living in Mercer County, says she drives scared for the 15 minutes it takes her to get to work. But her commute would be difficult any other way.

"You dont have options unless you take two or three buses to get to a job, said the 50-year-old woman, who has lived in the United States for more than a decade. You always feel when you go out of your house, you pray to God the police doesnt stop you for any reason or you are not involved in any accident.

Cecilia, who asked that her last name not be disclosed, is one of an estimated nearly half-million undocumented immigrants of driving age in New Jersey who arent eligible to get drivers licenses, according to New Jersey Policy Perspective, a liberal think tank.

State lawmakers are again pushing a plan that would allow them to drive legally.

Thats my dream, Cecilia said. Thats been my dream for years."

Similar bills have appeared in the New Jersey Legislature on and off for the last dozen years, but advocates said they are hopeful about their chances with the one introduced in the Senate last week  and with one-party control of state government. Gov. Murphy and Senate President Steve Sweeney (D., Gloucester) have both said they support the proposal.

If the bill passes, New Jersey would join 12 other states, including Delaware and Maryland, and the District of Columbia in giving drivers licenses to undocumented immigrants, who often drive without them or find other means to get around.

Besides allowing people to drive legally, the licenses also act as identification for residents looking for jobs, housing, and health care. The bill would not allow undocumented immigrants to receive state services or use the licenses to vote, since they are not citizens.

The bills sponsors said the legislation also will benefit others who lack or have lost key identification documents.

Supporters say giving drivers licenses to undocumented immigrants will make all residents safer, since some immigrants are already driving without licenses and car insurance. Opponents decry extending the privilege to people who are in the country illegally.

In addition to the license provisions, the bill includes language to implement REAL IDs, the identification cards that must meet post-9/11 federal security standards. As of Oct. 1, 2020, any U.S. resident who wants to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings must either have a REAL ID-compliant card or a passport. Both types of licenses require proof of age and New Jersey residency. Residents need to have Social Security numbers or other proof of legal U.S. residency to get REAL IDs.

The proposed licenses would look different in design or color from the REAL IDs.

Early next year, Philadelphia officials plan to begin issuing municipal identification cards, for which all Philadelphia residents  including undocumented immigrants  will be eligible. Cities such as Newark, N.J., New York, and Chicago offer municipal IDs, which city officials say also benefit low-income residents and youth who cant get state identification.

New Jersey Senate President Pro Tempore M. Teresa Ruiz, a cosponsor of the bill who has also supported past versions, said in a statement that the countless undocumented immigrants who pay taxes and go to work every day in New Jersey are mothers and fathers striving to make a better life for their children and contributing to the economic growth of their communities.

Offering undocumented immigrants a pathway to a legal drivers license would reduce their chances of encountering legal troubles while trying to make a living, while also making the roads safer for all New Jerseyans, said Ruiz (D., Essex).

Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, a Union County Democrat and that chambers deputy majority leader, is expected to sponsor a companion bill in the coming weeks.

Delaware has issued about 6,500 drivers licenses to undocumented immigrants since the Division of Motor Vehicles began disregarding citizenship status in 2015. Of those, about 5,900 are current.

In May, Republican state lawmakers in New Jersey who represent parts of Burlington, Atlantic, and Ocean Counties issued a statement decrying any effort to give drivers licenses to undocumented immigrants, after, they said, they received complaints from outraged constituents.

Notwithstanding that this is an inappropriate use of limited public resources, there are the serious homeland security issues at stake which simply cannot be disregarded for the sake of political expediency," said Sen. Christopher J. Connors, Assemblyman Brian E. Rumpf and Assemblywoman DiAnne C. Gove. "No, not every person in the country illegally is a security threat. Regardless, it would be completely irresponsible and negligent for New Jersey to circumvent proven, effective policies instituted to protect public safety.

Camden Councilman and former Assemblyman Angel Fuentes said he is developing a council resolution to support the bill, which council members have done in the past. He said he knows of undocumented immigrants who have no choice but to walk their children to school in brutal weather.

I think this is a humane way to handle this situation," Fuentes said.John Muldrow was shot and paralyzed in 1999. Before he was able to get help from a city program, he dragged himself, and his wheelchair, up and down the stairs of his South Philadelphia home. Read more

Victoria Wylie wants the kids on her youth commission to understand the reality of gun violence, because she worries they don't see the full picture.

They know gunfire is routine in many of their neighborhoods.

They hear about nameless victims who either live or die.

And that's where their understanding of the possibilities ends.

Except, as the story by my colleague David Gambacorta and me shows, for many of the estimated 116,255 people who are shot in the United States every year, the shell casings from the bullets that tear into their flesh and shatter their spines aren't the only things that end up in the cracks and shadows of the gun violence epidemic.

Cracks and shadows like the ones John Muldrow, 39, invited Wylie's kids into recently as he spoke to them about life after being shot. Muldrow was shot and paralyzed when he was 19. He prepared to die that night, he said. What he was never prepared for was the daily struggle of a lifelong disability. Or the emotional and financial burden as he and his mother embarked on a bureaucratic scavenger hunt for resources.

It wasn't until 2013, after 14 years of dragging his body, and his wheelchair, up and down the front steps of his South Philadelphia home and into the living room, that he was able to get a ramp and a chair lift. After nearly two decades with few to no services, a city program his mother helped him find finally allowed him to go upstairs in the home they share.

"If there are programs that can help you faster, they're not putting it out there," he said.

Exactly.

And yet the messages came rolling in as soon as I posted a preview online of our story about this country's forgotten paralyzed gunshot survivors: Had we heard of this program over here, that program over there? How could we not know about this program over here and that program over there?

Here's how. For our story, we spoke to more than a dozen paralyzed gunshot victims. Over many years, I've talked to countless more  and almost unanimously they've echoed Muldrow's experience:

If there is help beyond the handful of government programs with long waits and limited funds, that is news to those who need them most. And no matter how fantastic your intentions or your program, if the people you aim (and are paid) to help don't know about you, there is a problem.

After 20 years of being a Columbine survivor, Richard Castaldo's mom, Connie Michalik, had a simple, almost incredulous question: Are there programs that could help us?

There are some, but not nearly enough. In the last few days, I've learned of a few more: A couple of crowdsourcing programs that help survivors, Gun Violence Survivors Foundation and Help Hope Live, which started more than 30 years ago as a way to help organ transplant patients but has grown to include spinal cord injuries. Temple Occupational Therapy students have provided volunteer support to some families. On Dec. 11, the Special Olympics is hosting an "Inclusion Forum" in Philadelphia that the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities said will address some of the access issues we brought up in the story, But (deep breath, y'all) it's not open to the public.

There are a lot of things that need to happen for this forgotten population. Hospitals need to start tracking these types of injuries. Only the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania could provide us with the number of gunshot paralysis cases it has had: at least 85 since 2012.

The best suggestion I've heard to help the victims in a meaningful way is Columbine survivor Jami Amo's idea of taxing guns.

A national clearinghouse with services and resources available is beyond long overdue.

But at the very least, the people and programs that aim to help this population need to do a much better job at reaching and helping them, past handing them a booklet with programs that might be able to help.

During our reporting, I heard more than once that you can only hold people's hands so much through the process. I heard that from people whose jobs should be exactly that.

We have a whole population that we owe more to. Some hand-holding to the few options they now have is the absolute least we can do.

Because, as Muldrow said, "There are plenty more people like me out there." And with more than 1,250 people in Philadelphia shot this year alone, there are only going to be more.Cathedral Kitchen incoming executive director Carrie Kitchen-Santiago (left) and outgoing executive director Karen Talarico share a hug in the East Camden dining room of the respected nonprofit. ELIZABETH ROBERTSON / Staff Photographer Read more

On her first day as Cathedral Kitchen's first-ever executive director, in 2003, Karen Talarico discovered that her makeshift office had neither a phone nor a computer. There wasn't an electrical outlet, either.

Cathedral Kitchen nevertheless managed to serve dinner to several hundred needy people that day, as it had long done five days a week in the gymnasium of the former Camden Catholic High School in downtown Camden, where the beloved duo of Clyde "Pop" Jones (may he rest in peace) and his wife, Theresa, made it all happen with volunteers and a shoestring budget.

Fifteen years later, Talarico is poised to retire at the end of December from a bigger, more sustainable, and far more ambitious organization, where a state-of-the-art East Camden headquarters serves 100,000 dinners annually and offers culinary training, a commercial kitchen, and a popular lunch spot called the CK Cafe.

There's also a seasonal pop-up restaurant, the Lunch Box, at Roosevelt Park in downtown Camden, and a free dental clinic in East Camden that treats 1,000 adults annually.

"While it's wonderful to feed people, they need to be healthy. They need to have teeth," Talarico said one afternoon last week, standing in the dining room alongside her successor, Carrie Kitchen-Santiago.

Cathedral Kitchen was founded in 1976. I wrote about it for the first time in the 1980s, coming away impressed by the strength, grit and goodness of those who served  and those who were being served as well.

"Carrie will be a great fit  based on her skills, her commitment to working to help those in poverty, and her compassionate personality," board president Glenn Giveans said in a statement, adding that the organization "is thrilled to have her as our new executive director."

A veteran of leadership positions at Philadelphia nonprofits, Kitchen-Santiago was selected from among 100 applicants during a six-month search. She began work five weeks ago, with Talarico staying on to help until the end of the year to help ensure a smooth transition.

"You don't come up with a strategic plan after five weeks," the new executive director said. "We already touch a lot of people, and generally speaking, I'd like to deepen the impact we have on some of the folks we serve, especially the meal guests. To help them stabilize their lives so they don't have to come for a meal."

Taking on the top job, a newcomer often finds herself "almost starting from nothing, or in a turnaround situation," said Kitchen-Santiago, 44, a mother of two who lives in Haddon Township. "Cathedral Kitchen is not that. This is a stable, well-funded and very diversified organization in a good position."

Said Talarico, a mother of two and grandmother of two who lives in Vineland: "Carrie doesn't have to worry about putting out a lot of fires."

There's plenty enough to do already in an organization with 47 employees and a $3.2 million annual budget.

From Monday through Saturday, more than 300 men, women and children line up outside the kitchen's dining room on the slowly reviving 1500 block of Federal Street.

They come for a hot, healthy, "home-cooked"-style meal prepared under the direction of longtime chef Jonathan Jernigan and served with the help of a dozen or more volunteers among the hundreds who have committed to help the organization.

Seven days a week, a separate commercial kitchen behind the cafe produces 1,600 meals for schools, shelters, halfway houses and other facilities in the city. And twice annually, training classes in the culinary and baking arts  students include people re-entering the community after incarceration  are offered for 17 weeks.

Since that program began in 2010, 330 have graduated, and 22 of them have been hired by the kitchen.

Among them is Mark Woodall, 54, who lives in the city's Centerville section and has been cooking at Cathedral Kitchen for seven years. Before that, he was in a Camden halfway house completing a 36-month state prison sentence for selling drugs, and was a volunteer at the kitchen.

There, he witnessed an act of generosity by Jernigan that touched him. The chef gave his coat to a dinner guest who was going to spend the winter night outdoors, Woodall said, "and that made me want to be a part of Cathedral Kitchen."

"This place literally saved my life," he said.

Success stories notwithstanding, Cathedral Kitchen and programs like it are seen by some as enabling, rather than helping, people in need. Kitchen-Santiago noted that polls suggest many Americans blame low-income people for being low-income.

"If you are willing to wait outside in the freezing cold before we open, you must be hungry. You must really need that meal," Talarico said. "Who am I to deny you a meal? We're not here to judge. We're just here to meet people where they're at."

Leaving Cathedral Kitchen is "bittersweet," she said. "I work with wonderful people. You can see the heart that's in this place.

"But it's time. It's time for a younger person to take over. And I think Carrie is going to do a great job."For decades now, Bob Dylan has been shadowed by The Bootleg Series.

The live cuts and collections of unreleased tracks have done deep dives into prolific periods of his illustrious past, pulling the curtain back for fresh perspectives on revered albums and reassessments of less highly regarded works.

Now at long last, we've arrived at Blood on the Tracks. The 14th volume in the series takes on the heartrending 1975 album that is the quintessential masterwork of the mature Dylan  who will bring his Never Ending Tour to the Met Philadelphia on Dec. 3.

More Blood, More Tracks (Columbia / Legacy *** ) digs into the archetypal breakup album that gave the world "Tangled Up in Blue," written while Dylan's marriage to Sara Lownds was falling apart. A decade after he had reshaped popular culture as a young man with a mind of fire, it captures Dylan still at the height of his powers, weary with the ache that comes with the passage of time.

This volume doesn't arrive with a treasure trove of previously unheard songs, like such recent Bootleg editions as 2013's Another Self Portrait, 2014's The Basement Tapes Raw, or last year's Trouble No More, which opened up the vaults on Dylan's late '70s-early '80s Christian period.

Instead, More Blood delivers alternative versions of the original's 10 songs, with 87 tracks in a six-disc deluxe box, all recorded over six days in sessions first held in New York, and then with different musicians in Minnesota when Dylan was dissatisfied with the initial results.

Only three songs on the set are not heard on the original. The strummy "Up to Me" proudly reaches for the artistic brass ring rather that settling for the mundane. A tender take on the traditional "Spanish Is a Lover's Tongue" is the lone nonoriginal. And the bitter and bereft "Call Letter Blues," has the same musical arrangement as Blood's 12-bar blues "Meet Me in the Morning" with entirely different, harsher lyrics.

More Blood shines light on Dylan's creative and decision-making process. There are multiple versions of beloved songs like the pained "You're a Big Girl Now" and agitated "Idiot Wind," often with alternative rhymes and slightly different arrangements.

What's remarkable about the set is how varied and excellent all the tracks are, almost without exception. Emptying-the-vaults projects with multiple takes are often maddening, with only slight variations rewarding to obsessives.

But if Dylan wanted to do another Blood take, it was because he had a worthwhile idea to try. And in this instance anyway, he was fully committed to each performance. Another reason to hear More Blood: On the original, tracks were speeded up slightly to give songs added sting. Shorn of that effect, Dylan sounds deeply relaxed and self-confident as a vocalist, with many versions arguably superior to the originals.

That said, six discs of alternative takes is a bit much. More Blood is arranged chronologically in the order the tracks were recorded, so two or three versions of "Buckets of Rain" or "Simple Twist of Fate" are often strung together. It can get repetitive and annoying. Happily, there's also a single-volume edition that consists of single alternative takes of the original album, plus "Up to Me." If you're not really deep into Dylan, get that one.Ken Smukler walks outside the federal courthouse in Philadelphia Monday after a jury found him guilty in a campaign-finance case. Read more

A federal jury Monday found U.S. Rep. Bob Brady's top political strategist, Ken Smukler, guilty of nine of 11 counts of repeatedly flouting campaign finance laws in a case that once threatened to ensnare the congressman himself.

Smukler, 58, who has helped dozens of Democrats win public office over the last 30 years, was convicted of coordinating multiple unlawful contributions and falsifying finance reports for candidates in back-to-back congressional races.

One of those campaigns  Brady's 2012 primary bid for reelection  ended with the abrupt withdrawal of his opponent after he was promised a $90,000 payoff, which jurors concluded that Smukler helped to pay.

The Villanova-based campaign strategist bowed his head and wiped his eyes as the jury of six men and six women announced its decision after about 12 hours of deliberation in federal court in Philadelphia.

The Justice Department now has won convictions and guilty pleas against four key players in the 2012 campaign  but, notably, Brady himself was not charged.

Smukler, walking from the courthouse after the verdict, declined to discuss the jury's decision. He was acquitted of two charges involving false statements made to the Federal Election Commission  one by Brady's campaign and one by Brady's campaign rival in the 2012 Democratic primary, Jimmie Moore, a former Municipal Court judge.

Smukler faces the possibility of a prison sentence at a hearing that U.S. District Judge Jan. E. DuBois set for March 13.

"The message here is if you have no regard for the election laws as a candidate or as an officeholder, then you should stay out of the arena," Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Gibson said outside the courthouse. "And political hired guns should follow the rules."

Monday's verdict came after a three-week trial and months of legal wrangling between Smukler  a political brawler who got his start serving as press secretary to Mayor W. Wilson Goode Sr. in his 1987 reelection campaign  and prosecutors, who described him as a "confident and cocky" operative who hoped to use his skills at spin and manipulation to escape his reckoning in court.

"Mr. Smukler's process is to admit what he has to, deny what he can," Gibson told jurors in his closing arguments Thursday. "When he's confronted with an inconvenient fact, he simply spins and spins and spins."

Smukler took the stand to defend himself and, in hours of combative testimony, repeatedly challenged the tactics of FBI investigators whom he described as desperate to find a crime where one did not exist. His lawyer, Brian McMonagle, asked again and again how Smukler could face charges for the 2012 primary transaction when Brady, the man who set up the deal, was never charged.

"Conspiracy my eye," McMonagle said in his closing pitch to the jury. "There was never any intention here to commit a crime. This wasn't some grand conspiracy. If there was, Brady would be sitting here."

Brady, who did not testify at the trial, has maintained since the investigation burst into public view last summer that the $90,000 he paid Moore was not an unlawful contribution. Instead, he described the funds as money deployed for legitimate campaign purchases  including to buy a poll Moore had commissioned before dropping out that exposed some of Brady's political weaknesses within his district.

The payment exceeded the $2,000 limit one campaign could give to another in a primary campaign that year.

Prosecutors described the congressman in court papers as having engaged in a conspiracy to commit campaign finance fraud. But while they ultimately secured Smukler's conviction Monday and wrung guilty pleas from Moore, Moore's former campaign manager, and another Brady aide  Donald "D.A." Jones  they quietly allowed the statute of limitations run out on charges the congressman could have faced last year.

The jury foreman, who would only give his first name, Paul, said Brady was not pertinent to jurors' deliberations. "I hope that out of this, all campaign managers and operatives will take away the message, you obey the law at all times," he said.

Brady's lawyer, Jim Eisenhower, declined to comment Monday.

Asked why Brady wasn't charged, Gibson told reporters that he could not "speak to internal deliberations for the department."

Months after investigators announced their first indictments in the case, Brady announced that he would not seek reelection. The congressman said at the time that he wanted to spend more time with family after two decades in Congress. He remains chairman of the powerful Philadelphia Democratic City Committee.

Smukler also was found guilty of charges tied to the campaign he managed after Brady's race against Moore  a 2014 bid by former U.S. Rep. Marjorie Margolies to reclaim a seat she held in the '90s representing parts of Philadelphia and Montgomery County.

Although Margolies, mother-in-law to Chelsea Clinton, was seen as an early front-runner  largely thanks to anticipated support from the Clintons  she ran out of money in a brutal four-way primary, and her campaign, witnesses said, illegally tapped donations earmarked for the general election in the hope of pushing her across the finish line.

Margolies lost the primary vote to U.S. Rep. Brendan Boyle, leaving her with insufficient funds to pay back those general election donors as required by law.

To hide the illegal spending and raise enough cash to refund contributors, witnesses said, Smukler solicited hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal donations from his companies, his brother, and a friend  and then recruited straw donors, including Margolies herself, to hide the source of the money.

Jurors also found that Smukler obstructed a later investigation by the Federal Election Commission into those transactions.

Margolies  who testified against her former campaign manager under a grant of immunity from prosecution  maintained that at the time she didn't believe that she was doing anything illegal. Smukler said he did everything on the advice of the campaign's lawyer.

Gibson, the prosecutor, ultimately proved more persuasive.

"For two consecutive election cycles, this defendant's falsehoods took flight, making a mockery of the nation's election rules," he told jurors in his closing arguments. "Kenneth Smukler  a 30-year vet of high-stakes political wars  crossed the line."Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro, seen here during a news conference at the Pennsylvania Capitol on Aug. 14, 2018 to announce the grand jury report on Catholic clergy sexual abuse. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) Read more

HARRISBURG  The Pennsylvania Supreme Court on Monday ruled that it would not release the identities of 11 Roman Catholic clerics implicated in a high-profile grand jury investigation of child sexual abuse, an inquiry that has shaken Catholics and fueled an international reckoning for the church.

In its majority opinion, the high court sided with a group of former and current priests who claimed that they were denied due process because they were not given adequate opportunity to defend themselves against passages in a scathing grand jury report they believed were inaccurate or unfairly harmed their reputations. The report was made public earlier this year with temporary court-ordered redactions to mask the identities of those priests.

The justices on Monday made that order permanent, saying in a 6-1 decision, with Chief Justice Thomas G. Saylor dissenting, that releasing the priests' names to the public would unjustly taint their reputations. A person's reputation, they noted, is a "fundamental individual human right" protected by the state constitution.

But the justices left open the possibility that the priests could be investigated by a new state grand jury, so long as it granted due process rights to those accused of wrongdoing. The document of more than 1,000 pages chronicled seven decades worth of abuse in six out of the state's eight dioceses, sparking a wave of similar state and federal investigations across the country as well as the resignation of one of the nation's top Catholic leaders.

"We acknowledge that this outcome may be unsatisfying to the public and to the victims of the abuse detailed in the report," Justice Debra Todd wrote for the majority. "While we understand and empathize with these perspectives, constitutional rights are of the highest order, and even alleged sexual abusers, or those abetting them, are guaranteed by our commonwealth's constitution the rights of due process."

In a statement shortly after the high court released its opinion, state Attorney General Josh Shapiro said the justices' decision "allows predator priests to remain in the shadows and permits the church to continue concealing their identities."

He noted that while he is now barred from revealing the clergy members' names in relation to the report, he believes the dioceses can and should share those names with their parishioners and the public.

"I call on the bishops to do so immediately, consistent with their recent calls for transparency," Shapiro said.

Justin Danilewitz, the Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr lawyer who represented many of the priests, called the court's decision "a victory for all Pennsylvanians."

"There is no vindication in a wrongful accusation," Danilewitz said, "so we think that victims can take comfort in  that their voices were heard, but not at the expense of innocent individuals."

The case before the high court centered on a contention that the state investigation trampled on the due-process rights of those under scrutiny.

Lawyers for the clergy argued that their clients were denied an opportunity to appear before the grand jury to defend themselves, question witnesses, or provide contradictory evidence. They later argued that the report received so much publicity that it poisoned public opinion against their clients. The only solution, they contended, was to permanently block the names.

They also took aim at the right under the law for statewide grand juries to issue critical reports even in cases when criminal charges are not filed.

State prosecutors had countered that those named in the report  which singled out more than 300 priests who preyed on more than 1,000 victims over 70 years  were given the chance to respond in writing. They noted that the allegations in the report were supported by the church's own internal records, which prosecutors drew on heavily during their inquiry. They did not bring charges in the vast majority of the priest-abuse cases because the criminal statute of limitations had lapsed, they said.

The Attorney General's Office also argued that there were other remedies  aside from permanently redacting the report  including taking the case back to the grand jury or convening a new one to hear evidence about the abuse.

But the majority of the justices on Monday said they believed ordering such remedies would require changes to state law and thus fell outside the scope of their authority. Those issues, they said, must be addressed by the legislature  although Saylor last year convened a task force to examine the power of the investigating grand jury and make recommendations on whether to tweak or change the law.

"We conclude that we may not employ any of the remedies offered by the parties," Todd wrote, "and, thus, that we must make permanent the redaction of petitioners' identifying information  as this is the only viable due process remedy we may now afford to petitioners to protect their constitutional rights to reputation."

Saylor, in a dissenting opinion, said he believed there were workable alternatives available. He said a judge supervising the grand jury could hold a hearing on the priests' arguments and decide whether to release the portions of the report pertaining to them.Jenna Burleigh (left) was a Temple student when she was allegedly killed by Joshua Hupperterz in his North Philadelphia apartment. Read more

The man accused of killing 22-year-old Temple University student Jenna Burleigh in his off-campus apartment last year rejected on Monday an offer by prosecutors to plead guilty to third-degree murder and be sentenced to 30 to 60 years in state prison.

Instead, Joshua Hupperterz told Common Pleas Court Judge Glenn Bronson that he wanted to proceed to trial, now scheduled for Jan. 7, 2019. If convicted of first- or second-degree murder, Hupperterz would face a mandatory sentence of life in prison.

Assistant District Attorney Jason Grenell had told the judge on Friday that the District Attorney's Office had conveyed the plea offer to Hupperterz's attorneys. Defense attorney David Nenner said he wanted to give Hupperterz time over the weekend to think about it.

During a courtroom break on Monday, Nenner said Hupperterz maintained that he did not kill Burleigh.

Authorities have said that Hupperterz, then a 29-year-old former Temple student, met Burleigh early on Aug. 31, 2017, at Pub Webb, a bar near 16th Street and Cecil B. Moore Avenue. The two were seen on surveillance video sitting together and chatting at the bar, then leaving the bar together shortly after 2 a.m. They were then seen on surveillance video walking toward his apartment building on 16th Street.

Authorities believe that Hupperterz killed Burleigh in his apartment about 4 a.m., around the time an upstairs neighbor heard screaming. A coroner later ruled that Burleigh died of blunt-force trauma and strangulation.

Burleigh had just started her first week of classes as a junior at Temple after transferring from Montgomery County Community College. She lived with her parents in Harleysville.

Monday was the fifth day of a pretrial motions hearing for Hupperterz, in which his lawyers argued that statements the defendant gave to police should not be admissible at his trial because detectives questioned Hupperterz even after he told them that he had a lawyer. Prosecutors contend that Hupperterz willingly spoke to police.

According to testimony from witnesses at Hupperterz's preliminary hearing last year, Hupperterz put Burleigh's body in a blue plastic storage container and had a cousin drive him and the container to the home of his mother in Jenkintown, where the bin was placed inside a detached garage.

The next day, Sept. 1, Hupperterz allegedly hired a Lyft driver to take him to Jenkintown to retrieve the container and then had the driver take him and the container to the home of his grandmother outside Hawley, about 45 miles east of Scranton. Both the cousin and the Lyft driver testified at Hupperterz's preliminary hearing that they had not known that a body was inside the bin.

In limited questioning Monday, Hupperterz said he recalled taking a Lyft car from the Philadelphia area to his grandmother's house. But when Grenell asked whether he knew that Burleigh's body was also in the car, Hupperterz said: "I don't remember."

He also testified that while at the state police barracks in Dunmore on the night of Sept. 1, 2017, he told police that he had a lawyer, Tom Munley, and had expected the police to set up a meeting with him.

Instead, he contended that he was surprised when Philadelphia detectives arrived at the barracks about 1 a.m. Sept. 2 to return him to the city.

Hupperterz's mother, Gina, was in court Friday and Monday for the motions hearing.

Burleigh's family members were also in the courtroom. Her parents, Ed and Jaqui, said in a statement Saturday that while they "would obviously prefer life in prison without parole" for Hupperterz, they supported the plea offer to avoid a multi-day trial that would include painful details of their daughter's death.

The judge did not immediately rule on the motion to suppress Hupperterz's statements.This November 2018 photo provided by the Burlington County Prosecutors office shows Johnny Bobbitt. A feel-good tale of Bobbitt, a homeless man using his last $20 to help Katelyn McClure, a stranded New Jersey woman, buy gas, was actually a complete lie, a prosecutor said Thursday, Nov. 15, 2018. A GoFundMe that was set up by McClure and her boyfriend Mark D'Amico raised more than $400,000 to help Bobbitt. Read more

Johnny Bobbitt Jr. settled outstanding drug charges in Philadelphia on Monday, the last hurdle before he is extradited to New Jersey to face charges of defrauding more than 14,000 donors who contributed over $400,000 to the fabricated GoFundMe campaign.

Bobbitt, 35, who appeared before Municipal Court Judge Wendy L. Pew wearing a T-shirt reading "Explore the Outdoors," was found in violation of probation on three misdemeanor drug-possession convictions from July 2017. If not for those cases, he would have been sent to New Jersey last week, when he waived his right to a hearing.

Pew resentenced Bobbitt to one year's probation, combining his punishment in the three cases into one sentence. While on probation, he must prove that he is staying off drugs.

The formerly homeless Bobbitt, who said he now rents an apartment blocks from Frankford Avenue's trendy bar-and-restaurant corridor in Fishtown, has been held at the Detention Center on State Road since his Nov. 14 arrest on charges of fraud, theft by deception, and conspiracy. He was expected to be transferred to Burlington County as early as Monday afternoon.

The other two defendants in the fraud case, Katelyn McClure and Mark D'Amico, are free on bail while awaiting trial. Their next court appearance is Dec. 24 in Superior Court in Mount Holly.

McClure, D'Amico, and Bobbitt are accused of fabricating a narrative that Bobbitt spent his last $20 to help McClure after she ran out of gas on I-95 in Philadelphia. McClure and D'Amico in turn set up the GoFundMe campaign to raise money to get Bobbitt off the streets. The effort, which had an initial goal of $10,000, was wildly successful, attracting thousands of donations from across the country and beyond. And the Good Samaritan story went viral, as Bobbitt and the couple appeared on national television.

But in the end, prosecutors say, it was all a scam. The three concocted the story to prey on the sympathy of donors, authorities said. McClure and D'Amico spent much of the money on vacations, gambling excursions, and luxury handbags, authorities said. Bobbitt, too, spent tens of thousands, prosecutors say, some of it on drugs.

All donations to the GoFundMe campaign, created in November 2017, have since been refunded, a GoFundMe spokesman said.PA American Water says a boil water advisory affecting 12,600 customers will remain in effect until at least Tuesday. Read more

Pennsylvania American Water Co. says a boil-water advisory affecting 12,600 Bucks County customers will remain in effect until at least Tuesday, but Pennsbury schools served by the water company plan to reopen Monday.

The water company said that customers in Yardley Borough, Lower Makefield Township, and parts of Falls Township served by a treatment plant that experienced mechanical problems Thursday night should continue to boil water before drinking it.

State environmental regulators allowed Pennsylvania American to begin testing water samples on Sunday evening to establish the water's purity, but regulations require two consecutive days of test results with no signs of bacteria before the advisory can be lifted.

The Pennsbury School District, which suspended classes Friday as a precaution at all 15 of its properties, announced Sunday that classes will resume Monday at all its schools. Pennsylvania American will supply pallets of bottled water for students and employees at the eight schools it serves, the district said.

The schools that will receive bottled water are Afton, Eleanor Roosevelt, Edgewood, Makefield and Quarry Hill Elementary Schools, as well as Charles Boehm, Pennwood and William Penn Middle Schools.

Pennsylvania American has stabilized the treatment plant in Lower Makefield and "is continuing to analyze the plant operations to ensure there is not a repeat of the mechanical control issues that caused the increased turbidity level last Thursday," spokesman Terry Maenza said in a statement. Turbidity, or cloudiness, could be an indication of the presence of bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can cause nausea, diarrhea, or headaches, the company has said.

Water tankers are available for customers  who are urged to bring their own containers  from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Yardley-Makefield Fire Company locations, Gas Light Village, Big Oak Shopping Center, and Village Market in Lower Makefield.The office of Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro, pictured above at the podium, conducted a nearly two-year investigation into allegations of clergy sexual abuse at nearly every Catholic diocese in the state. JESSICA GRIFFIN / Staff Photographer Read more

HARRISBURG  Nearly two dozen current and former members of the clergy are among those seeking to block the release of a highly anticipated grand jury report outlining decades of alleged sexual abuse by clergy in Catholic dioceses across the state, according to a court document filed Thursday.

The revelation that clergy members are behind the fierce secret legal battle came in response to a push by the Inquirer and Daily News, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, and seven other news organizations, which have together asked the state Supreme Court to lift its stay on the report's release.

News organizations have called the report a "matter of extraordinary public importance." The more than 800-page grand jury report, which was expected to have been released last month, details alleged clergy abuse in all of the state's Catholic dioceses except for Philadelphia and Altoona-Johnstown, which already were the subject of similar investigations.

The documents filed Thursday offered a glimpse into the intense legal maneuvering that could result in the report's being permanently shielded from the public. They also offered the most detail to date about the people who have fought for months to keep their names out of the public realm.

That fight has occurred almost entirely under court seal, in part because it involves a two-year-long investigation by the Attorney General's Office during which dozens of victims testified before a grand jury.

Officials in the six affected dioceses had said in recent months that they would not stand in the way of the report's release. But abuse victims have nevertheless fretted that their voices will again be silenced.

Attorneys for those pushing to block the report say there is much at stake on their side, too.

Attorney Justin Danilewitz of Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr LLP on Thursday wrote on behalf of the nearly two dozen current and former clergy members who are seeking to block the report's public release. He said the report is full of inaccuracies that would unfairly tarnish the reputations of the clergy, whose names were redacted.

Danilewitz presented examples of four priests whose stories, he argued, represent wider factual problems with the report. Those priests' names, and specifics of their stories, were outlined in roughly two pages of court documents that were blacked out from the public file.

"Of particular relevance here, grand jury secrecy protects those, like the Clergy Petitioners, whose reputations may be unjustly harmed, including the innocent wrongly accused," he wrote.

Attorney General Josh Shapiro, whose office led the investigation that produced the grand jury report, on Thursday called the clergy members' legal filing "nothing more than a desperate attempt to stop the public from learning the truth about their abhorrent conduct."

In a statement, he called the report accurate and said, "The airing of these facts should happen in public  not hidden behind redacted, meritless legal motions designed to further cover up decades of abuse and reprehensible conduct."

A small group of priests separately filed court documents saying they would not object if the court released a redacted version of the report that blacked out references to them.

Yet another filing was almost entirely redacted. Efrem Grail of the Grail Law Firm argued that his client had "a unique issue" that the state Supreme Court must still consider. Releasing the report ahead of that, he said, would be an "injustice."

"There is simply no reason why speed in this entire proceeding will lead to anything other than injustice and confusion," Grail wrote.

The filings came in response to the effort by the nine media organizations that asked the state Supreme Court to lift its stay blocking the release of the report.

The high court was asked by a group of unnamed individuals and organizations to block the report's public dissemination. At the heart of their objections is that they have a right under the Pennsylvania Constitution to protect their reputations and should be allowed to rebut portions of the report before it is released.

The justices agreed to temporarily block the report while they weighed those issues. The high court has not publicly established a timeline for making a decision in that matter, which could have far-reaching implications for the grand jury system in Pennsylvania.

While lawyers for the media organizations have advocated for release of the full report, they have said that if the justices need more time to consider other legal challenges, they should order that a redacted version be released in the interim.

Shapiro's office said in a filing Thursday that it supports the public release of the report and does not oppose the media organizations' attempts to see it.

In its filing, Senior Deputy Attorney General Daniel J. Dye, who led the sweeping investigation into clergy abuse, said the people named in the report have had an opportunity to respond in writing. They have been given portions that are relevant to them and any written response will be attached to the report before release, he said. The six dioceses that came under scrutiny have copies of the full report.

"They are free to go further  to make any statements they wish, to appear in any forum, to go before any camera or microphone," Dye said of the individuals named in the report. "That is not true for the grand jury. The report itself is their last word."Cutting back the infamous DROP program, which showers retiring city workers with windfalls, is proving to be nearly impossible with an election year approaching.

City Councilman Allan Domb introduced legislation in September that would eliminate the controversial pension perk for any new hire who is not represented by one of the major unions. But three months later, Councilwoman Cherelle L. Parker, who is in charge of the Committee on Labor and Civil Service, has not held a required hearing on the bill.

The Deferred Retirement Option Plan allows city employees to collect a paycheck and a pension at the same time during their last four years of employment. The pension payments are deposited into an interest-bearing account and paid in a lump sum when the employee retires. The perk, introduced as a pilot program in 1999, has been estimated to have cost taxpayers at least $237 million as of 2015.

Domb says he is worried about the future of the pension fund, which only has 45 percent of the money it needs to fully pay the pensions of 66,000 city retirees and employees.

"I want to make sure we live up to our promise to those 66,000," Domb said last week.

Introduced by then-Mayor Ed Rendell, DROP was designed to keep top employees on the job longer and allow the city to better plan staffing in critical areas. Eventually the program was opened to nearly everyone in government, including elected officials, and costs mushroomed.

Previous attempts to get rid of DROP, which were supported by Mayor Kenney when he was a councilman, were fruitless. And with both the mayor and Council members up for re-election in 2019, the political power of municipal unions makes it unlikely that Domb will succeed.

Since Domb introduced his bill to eliminate DROP for nonunionized city workers hired after Jan. 1, the city's two municipal-worker unions, AFSCME District Councils 33 and 47, have put on a full-court press against the bill. The Kenney administration has also raised concerns with Domb during two closed-door meetings.

At first, Kenney's top finance, pension and labor deputies told Domb that his bill wouldn't have much of a fiscal impact. It would save about $5.5 million to $7 million over the next 10 years. In less than three years, the city has hired 1,140 nonunionized workers, but the Kenney administration says that number doesn't take into account that people have left city government and that since 2016, the net number of nonunionized employees is only 410.

Still, the longer employees stay, the fatter their pensions and DROP payments get. Domb said he's thinking about the long term.

"I do think in 20, 30 years it will make a difference," he said. "I'm trying to avoid a major crisis."

(Kenney's chief of staff, Jim Engler, said negotiations for the current AFSCME contracts led to creation of a hybrid pension plan that would cap defined benefits at $65,000 for all new non-uniformed union and non-union workers. That change, in addition to increased contributions by all employees, is expected to provide some savings to the pension fund.)

In a three-page letter Pete Matthews, president of D.C. 33, called Domb's bill "anti-worker, anti-union."

"It also sets the stage to take benefits away from new union workers and, eventually, all workers," Matthews said in the Oct. 30 letter.

Once the nonrepresented employees no longer have DROP, union leaders fear the city will use the issue of fairness to try to bargain DROP off the table in contract negotiations.

In a second meeting on Nov. 9 arranged by Parker, Kenney's team and union representatives told Domb that his bill is contrary to the city's tradition of negotiating with unions first and then giving the nonrepresented employees the same benefits.

Domb said he would be OK with police officers and firefighters keeping DROP but doesn't think the nonuniformed employees should have it.

The city's pension plan allows those employees not only to take DROP but also to include overtime in their pension and DROP calculations. Once they retire, they, along with retired police officers and firefighters, are also eligible for another pension bonus that comes from the Pension Adjustment Fund. The city's fiscal watchdog, PICA, has recommended that the city get rid of both DROP and the adjustment fund, seen as drains on a starved pension fund.

"It is a Rolls-Royce plan and we are on a Buick budget," Domb said. "I think to the residents of the city  many who don't get a pension  it's a slap in their faces."

The public, however, is not likely to hear both sides of the argument on this bill. Parker is not scheduling a hearing for the bill any time soon, or perhaps ever.

"During and after the briefing, it became obvious that there were significant questions and concerns with Councilman Domb's bill, significant enough for me to realize that I need to do more work with the sponsor of the bill and all affected parties to ensure that these questions and concerns are addressed," Parker said.

Parker received substantial labor support, including from municipal unions, during her successful run for City Council in 2015.

Domb, who acknowledged he has no support from his fellow Council colleagues on the bill, said dropping DROP might be an easier conversation after the May primary election.

Correction: An earlier version of this story inaccurately reported the pension cap for new non-uniformed employees.A serial home invader and gang member with a penchant for cursing at court officials was sentenced Monday in federal court in Philadelphia to life plus 85 years in prison for his involvement in a series of violent home invasions and carjackings. True to form, he lashed out at the judge and a federal agent.

Robert Hartley, 47, was part of a 20-member gang involved in a number of violent crimes in Philadelphia between 2012 and 2014. He and 15 other members were indicted in 2015, with some facing life in prison. One of the leaders, Khalil Smith, was sentenced Nov. 19 to life plus 207 years in federal prison; other members have trials coming up in the next few weeks.

Among the more serious charges against Hartley involved his participation in a home invasion in Southwest Philadelphia in April 2014 in which he and other defendants mistakenly identified a man as a drug trafficker. The victim was waterboarded and stripped naked, and boiling water was poured on his groin. The attackers threatened to sodomize his wife while his 4-year-old daughter watched. After realizing their target was not a drug trafficker, they stole his car.

"He has no regard for human suffering," U.S. District Judge Mitchell S. Goldberg said of Hartley in court Monday. "He has no empathy. He has zero respect for anybody."

At his conviction in April 2017, after the verdicts were read, Hartley had called out to Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeanine Linehan: "I'm going to bust you in your fing face, you white b."

At Monday's sentencing hearing, Hartley first refused to be present if restraints were required. But eventually he agreed to wear restraints, and entered the courtroom 15 minutes later, staring down others in the room.

When the defense and prosecution stepped forward to speak with the judge, Hartley took the opportunity to hurl degrading remarks to Special Agent Charles Doerrer of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, calling him a "homo" at least five times.

"I think his disrespect for this whole process is small and pales in comparison to the pain he inflicted to his completely innocent victims," Goldberg said in court.

As the prosecution prepared to begin its presentation, Hartley said he was done and was escorted back to his cell. He did not leave quietly, directing an expletive at the judge.

The sentence was read without Hartley in the room.

"As harsh and extreme as the sentencing seems, it appropriately reflects the horrible crimes that he committed against these victims," Linehan said afterward.On June 27, 2018, in Vatican City, Pope Francis during his Wednesday General audience in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican. (Evandro Inetti/Zuma Press/TNS) Read more

The statement released Thursday by the Holy See:

Regarding the report made public in Pennsylvania this week, there are two words that can express the feelings faced with these horrible crimes: shame and sorrow.

The Holy See treats with great seriousness the work of the Investigating Grand Jury of Pennsylvania and the lengthy Interim Report it has produced. The Holy See condemns unequivocally the sexual abuse of minors.

The abuses described in the report are criminal and morally reprehensible. Those acts were betrayals of trust that robbed survivors of their dignity and their faith. The Church must learn hard lessons from its past, and there should be accountability for both abusers and those who permitted abuse to occur.

Most of the discussion in the report concerns abuses before the early 2000s. By finding almost no cases after 2002, the Grand Jury's conclusions are consistent with previous studies showing that Catholic Church reforms in the United States drastically reduced the incidence of clergy child abuse.

The Holy See encourages continued reform and vigilance at all levels of the Catholic Church, to help ensure the protection of minors and vulnerable adults from harm. The Holy See also wants to underscore the need to comply with the civil law, including mandatory child abuse reporting requirements.

The Holy Father understands well how much these crimes can shake the faith and the spirt of believers and reiterates the call to make every effort to create a safe environment for minors and vulnerable adults in the Church and in all of society. Victims should know that the Pope is on their side.

Those who have suffered are his priority, and the Church wants to listen to them to root out this tragic horror that destroys the lives of the innocent.Let's imagine that Temple University professor Marc Lamont Hill's controversial comments on Israel last week took place in a college classroom, not at the United Nations. Let's further imagine that the college had a Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT), which allows students to submit anonymous complaints and empowers administrators to take action about them.

Would Jewish students have filed an objection to Hill's call for a "free Palestine from the river to the sea"? And what would the university have done after that?

It's anyone's guess. And that's precisely the problem with the increasingly popular BIRTs and the other efforts on campuses to fight bias and prejudice, including policies that bar or discourage "microaggressions." Bias is almost always in the eye of the beholder: one person's compelling argument will be another's gratuitous insult. And I don't want university administrators  or anyone else  telling us which is which.

>> READ MORE: Temple should take action after Marc Lamont Hill's Israel comments | Opinion

Consider the speech by Hill, who appeared before a U.N. panel called the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People. Hill blasted restrictions on Palestinians' rights in Israeli courts and on their ability to travel. And he argued that violent resistance against Israeli authorities could be justified as self-defense.

He concluded with his "river to sea" remark, which some listeners interpreted as a call to wipe out Israel. The remark cost him his position as a commentator on CNN, which told him that his speech "didn't reflect their values," Hill said. Across social media, meanwhile, critics called on Temple to fire him as well.

Hill has tenure, which makes dismissing him a very hard thing to do. But board chairman Patrick O'Connor seemed eager to do just that, noting that if Hill worked for a private company he would be fired immediately. "No one at Temple is happy with his comments," O'Connor said. "Free speech is one thing. Hate speech is entirely different."

>> READ MORE: U.N. speech by Temple prof draws fire from university's board chair

Again, though, which is which? Hill's "river to sea" comment echoed the rhetoric of Hamas and some other groups that seek Israel's elimination, so I can understand why some people called the remark hateful. But I also take seriously Hill's claim that he was simply demanding freedom for everyone who lives within Israel's borders.

Most of all, I don't want university officials deciding the matter for us. More than 100 colleges and universities had established BIRTs by 2016, seeking to police offensive language and behavior. The University of Utah encouraged reporting incidents that involved "objectifying women"; Syracuse University's BIRT flagged "name calling"; and at the University of Oregon, tabooed comments included "I don't see skin color."

The last remark is often offered as an example of a microggression, a subtle or indirect statement that harms minority groups. Hundreds of colleges and universities have staged training around microggressions, which allegedly stigmatize minorities by underscoring their difference ("Asians are good at math") or erasing it ("America is a melting pot").

>> READ MORE: From Tel Aviv, Marc Lamont Hill's Palestine comments don't sound so wrong to me | Opinion

Again, I can imagine many circumstances in which listeners might be offended by such comments; depending on who is speaking, I might be offended myself. But I simply cannot understand how an educational institution can assume a unilateral position on a matter like the melting pot, which is one of the most contested concepts in American history. That's not education; it's indoctrination.

For his own part, Hill apologized for his choice of words, which he said had caused "confusion, anger, fear, and other sorts of harm." Likewise, Temple president Richard M. Englert acknowledged that Hill's comments had "sparked strong responses from those who were offended by his language" and that Hill's river-to-sea remark especially was seen by some as a "perceived threat."

But all meaningful speech offends or threatens someone. So we should leave it up to the involved parties to work things out, which is exactly what has happened in this case. Temple officials spoke about Hill's comments, as is their right, but no official body told him what he should or shouldn't say. Nor was he charged with violating a university policy about bias, microaggression, or any other form of speech.

And if you think these policies only target white racists, think again. The next time, the censors might be coming for Marc Lamont Hill. Or for you.

Jonathan Zimmerman teaches education and history at the University of Pennsylvania. He is the author of "Campus Politics: What Everyone Needs to Know" (Oxford University Press).George H.W. Bush, the 41st president of the United States and father of the 43rd, died Friday at his home in Houston. His passing has prompted nationwide reflection on his single-term presidency, his most controversial decisions, and his service legacy. Like many other commentators, cartoonists are celebrating Bush especially for his reputation of decency and his family life.

Bushs points of light

A big piece of Bushs legacy was volunteerism, or his promotion of Americas service volunteers who he said improved the country as a thousand points of light  spread like stars throughout the nation.



A simpler time

Tom Brokaw called him "the last president of the Greatest Generation," a reference to those who grew up during the Great Depression and fought World War II, or whose labor helped win it.

An officer and a gentleman

Bush served in World War II and became an officer in the Naval Reserve just shy of his 19th birthday, making him one of the Navy's youngest flying officers.

Barbara and George

When a young Barbara Pierce first met her future husband George, she "thought he was the most beautiful creature [she] had ever laid eyes on." They raised six children together, and Barbara passed away in April.Gold chains for men are uniquely designed, preserving in mind the durability. The excellent gold chain for men that are...

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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Former Chief Election Commissioner OP Rawat on Monday said that there was no impact of demonetisation on the misuse of money in elections. "After demonestisation, it was thought that misuse of money during the election will be brought down. But it couldn't be proved on basis of the data of the seizures. Compared to previous elections, there were more seizures in the same states," he said.

The former Chief Election Commissioner also said that there was no check on black money that has been used in the elections. "It seems political class and their financiers have no dearth of money. Money used in this manner is generally black money. As far as black money used in elections is concerned, there was no check on it," he said.

Rawat, who retired as the CEC last week, had said that his "only regret" as head of the poll panel is that the EC was unable to recommend to the Law Ministry a fresh "legal framework" in tune with the changing times vis-a-vis the use of money and social media.

Responding to a question on transparency in funding of political parties, Rawat had said that it is "a long-term reform". "... All political party meeting in August (this year) had recommended that there should be a ceiling on party expenditure and commensurately there should be transparency in funding. I think it will see the light of day in time to come. Almost all parties agreed to a cap on expenditure, he said.

The election watchdog has been pushing for greater transparency in election-related expenditure by parties and candidates. Like individuals, there should be a ceiling on expenditure by political parties during polls, according to the Election Commission, which has referred the matter to the Law Ministry for legislative action.

At present, there is a ceiling on campaigning funds for individual candidates in the electoral fray but no cap on the money political parties can spend for electioneering.New Delhi: Global rating agency Moody's gave a stable (Baa2) outlook to Indias banking system, driven by the ongoing progress on asset quality front and better operating environment.

The stable outlook is based on Moody's assessment of six drivers, all of which Moody's assesses at stable. The six drivers are: operating environment; asset quality, capital; funding and liquidity; profitability and efficiency; and government support, the rating agency said in its report.

Moody's rates 16 banks in India, 15 commercial and one policy bank. The 15 banks rated by Moodys in the country together account for about 70 percent of assets in the system. Of the 15, 11 are state-owned, with weaker standalone fundamentals than private sector banks.

In its annual Banking System Outlook on India, the agency said that the environment will stay stable, supported by robust economic growth. Moody's expects that real GDP in India will grow 7.2 percent in the year ending March 2019 and 7.4 percent in the following year, driven by investment growth and strong consumption.

On asset quality, Moody's said that this factor will remain stable but weak, as the clean-up of legacy problem loans nears completion and corporate health improves.

In particular, the banks have recognized the bulk of legacy problem loans and will start making recoveries from large resolved nonperforming loans (NPLs). This will help shore up asset quality, although the degree of success in the resolution of large NPLs will determine the extent of asset quality improvements, the report said.

It said the government support for public sector banks will stay strong. Capital infusions over the past few years for all public sector banks facing capital shortfalls, as well as other government measures, provide strong support for Moody's assumption of very strong government support for public sector banks.

The banks' funding and liquidity will stay strong. Indian banks are largely deposit funded and their liquidity coverage ratios are all above 100%. The funding and liquidity profiles of public sector banks, in particular, will remain resilient, despite their solvency challenges, the report added.NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned a plea filed by Zakia Jafri challenging the report of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) which gave a clean chit to PM Narendra Modi in the 2002 Gujarat riots case. Petitioners have asked for time to file convenience volumes consisting direct evidence to establish a conspiracy. The matter will now be heard in the third week of January.

Modi was cleared of complicity in the violence by a Supreme Court-appointed SIT which had questioned him for over 9 hours in the post-Godhra Gulberg society massacre case.

Zakia, the wife of Ehsan Jafri, an ex-MP who was killed in one of the worst incidents during the riots, has challenged the Gujarat High Court's October 5, 2017 order rejecting her plea against the SIT's decision. The petition was earlier filed in the Gujarat High Court but after it was rejected there, the petitioners challenged the HCdecision in the apex court.

A bench of Justices AM Khanwilkar and Hemant Gupta posted the matter for hearing in the third week of January.

During a previous hearing, Jafri's counsel had said that notice needs to be issued in the plea as it pertains to the aspect of alleged "larger conspiracy" during the period from February 27, 2002 and May 2002 and had also maintained that after the SIT gave a clean chit in its closure report in the case before a trial judge, a protest was filed by the petitioner which was dismissed by the magistrate without considering "substantiated merits".

On February 8, 2012, the SIT filed a closure report, giving the clean chit to Modi and 63 others, including senior government officials, saying there was "no prosecutable evidence" against them.

The plea had further said the high court "failed to appreciate" the petitioner's complaint which was independent of the Gulberg case registered at Meghaninagar Police Station.

Zakia had sought an interim order to the SIT to carry out further investigation with regard to her complaint and the evidence provided by her before the magistrate through the protest petition. The high court in its October 5, 2017, order had said that the SIT probe was monitored by the Supreme Court but had partly allowed Zakia's petition as far as its demand of a further investigation was concerned.

New Delhi: The National Green Tribunal on Monday imposed a fine of Rs 25 crore on the Delhi government for failing to check the menace of air pollution in the city.

The NGT came down hard on the Delhi government for being unable to check the consistently polluted air quality here. The NGT, according to news agency ANI, also said that the fine has to be paid by deducting it from salaries of Delhi government officials and from people polluting the environment.

In a stern warning, the NGT also said that a fine of Rs 10 crore would be imposed every month if the Delhi government fails to pay the initial amount of Rs 25 crore.

Locals in Delhi, as well as in adjoining areas of Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Ghaziabad, have been breathing air that is several times over the safe limit prescribed by the World Health Organisation. PM 2.5 levels have hovered above 300 in most parts of the National Capital Region (NCR) for several weeks. This is far higher than the 'Safe' level of 60.

While meetings, discussions and analysis have been aplenty, many say that no work has been done at the ground level to address the problem. What has taken place, however, are political mudslinging and blame games galore. While BJP Delhi chief Manoj Tiwari has hit out at the Arvind Kejriwal government over the air quality here, Kejriwal has previously said stubble farm burnings in adjoining states are to be blamed. Now, with the stubble burning season over, people have begun questioning the Delhi CM on his claim.

Meanwhile, government agencies have said that prevailing weather conditions - falling temperatures, lack of strong winds and a low ventilation index - could ensure Delhi and adjoining areas continue to choke on invisible poison.JAMMU: Pakistan-based terror groups are using women to 'honey trap' to woo Kashmiri youths towards terrorism and use them as human carriers for delivering arms from one place to another or acting as guides to infiltrating terrorists, intelligence officials have warned.

An intelligence-based operation had led to the arrest of Syed Shazia, a woman in her early 30s from Bandipore, a fortnight ago. It was seen that she had many accounts on social networking sites such as Facebook and Instagram which many youths in the Kashmir Valley followed, they said.

Officials from the central security agencies had been keeping a watch on the Internet Protocol (IP) address used by Shazia for several months. She used to converse with youths and would promise to meet them only if a certain "consignment" was delivered from one place to another, the officials said.

Shazia had been in touch with some officials in the J&K Police department as well, but the officials termed it a usual tactic of "double-cross" as she used to report the movement of troops and "not so sensitive" information to her handlers across the border.

During interrogation, she told the investigators about the presence of some more women in militants ranks who had been tasked with luring youths into terrorism, they said.

A week before her arrest on November 17, the Jammu and Kashmir Police had arrested Aysia Jan (28) for carrying 20 grenades in Lawaypora on the city outskirts, after receiving inputs about terrorists trying to smuggle arms and ammunition into the city.

Besides grenades, the police had also seized ammunition from her possession, they said.

The officials began to monitor her while probing a case in September last year when the police killed Abu Ismail, the Lashkar-e-Toiba terror chief in the Valley, and Chotta Qassim.

Both were involved in last year's gunning down of Amarnath pilgrims in which eight people were killed.

Some documents and materials were seized from the encounter site in the outskirts of Srinagar city which indicated that an unidentified woman hailing from North Kashmir was involved in supplying arms and ammunition to the two terrorists.

It was in April this year, the woman was identified as Syed Shazia. Continuous monitoring of her social media presence showed that she was getting diktats from across the border for honey trapping and luring youths into militancy from across the border, they said.

She was in constant touch with Sherwan alias Ali of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror outfit who introduced her to Pakistan-based terrorists Sufiyan and Qasim Khan Gauri.

Later, she started working as an overground worker from Jaish terror group and was acting as the main conduit for ensuring delivery of weapons to other parts of the Valley.

Before her arrest, a special police officer hailing from Handwara was picked up by police for informing Shazia that her phone had been kept on monitoring.

It was found that the special police officer identified as Irfan had been passing information to Shaiza, they said.

She was arrested under various sections of Ranbir Penal Code (the equivalent of IPC) and Arms Act.Violence erupted, reportedly over alleged rumours of cow slaughter, in Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh on Monday. According to Bulandshahr district magistrate Anuj Jha, one police inspector was killed during clash between protesters and cops, reported news agency ANI.

One police inspector dead during a clash with people protesting against illegal slaughterhouses in Bulandshahr pic.twitter.com/Ugts7FDtsI  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 3, 2018

The clashes broke out when some local residents were protesting against alleged cow slaughter at illegal slaughterhouses. The protesters pelted stones and set several motorcycle on fire.

According to news agency IANS, members of several Hindu groups with an alleged cow carcass gathered on the Bulandshahr-Syana road and pelted stones at the police personnel.

Hindu Yuva Vahini and Bajrang Dal activists also vandalised vehicles and attacked police officials. They torched several passing vehicles.

In the violence, inspector Subodh Singh of Syana police station and four constables were injured. The profusely bleeding inspector was rushed to the Aurangabad community health centre (CHC) where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

As tension prevailed in the area, policemen from several police stations have been rushed along with senior officials to take control of the situation, police told news agency PTI.

There was report of a youth succumbing to injuries received in police firing, but there was no official confirmation.Doha: Qatar is withdrawing from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) as of January 2019, Saad al-Kaabi, the country`s energy minister said on Monday.

The decision came after Qatar, one of OPEC`s smallest producers but the world`s largest liquefied natural gas exporter, reviewed ways to enhance its role internationally and plan long-term strategy, including focusing on its gas industry, he said.

"Qatar has decided to withdraw its membership from OPEC effective January 2019 and this decision was communicated to OPEC this morning," he told a news conference, adding that Qatar would still attend an OPEC meeting in Vienna this week.

The announcement comes ahead of the meeting by OPEC and its allies including Russia on Dec. 6-7 to discuss cutting supply.

The minister said the decision was not easy as Qatar has been in OPEC for 57 years, but that the country`s impact on OPEC production decisions was small.

He stressed that Doha would continue to abide by all its commitments like any other non-OPEC oil producer.

The withdrawal decision reflects Qatar`s intent to focus its efforts on developing its natural gas industry, the minister said, as the Gulf Arab state moves to increase LNG production from 77 million to 110 million tonnes annually.

He said the decision was not linked to a political and economic boycott of Qatar imposed since June 2017 by OPEC`s de facto leader Saudi Arabia and three other Arab states.JAMMU: In a significant development, five 'missing' Kashmiri teenagers were reportedly prevented from joining terrorism and handed over to their respective families in Jammu and Kashmir.

These five teenagers in question were reportedly missing from some time. They had received phone calls threatening them to join the terror groups.

News agency ANI quoted J&K Police as saying that five boys were successfully rescued after they had gone missing. The children were threatened to join terrorism on a call, it said.

The J&K Police successfully counselled the boys and later handed them over to their parents, the ANI reported.

J&K Police: 5 boys were successfully rescued after they had gone missing. The children threatened to join militancy on a call. Police successfully counselled the boys and handed them over to the parents. #JammuAndKashmir  ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2018

This comes after it was reported that passionate appeals by the family members of a missing Jammu and Kashmir student, who was pursuing engineering at a Noida-based university and had reportedly joined the banned Islamic State of Jammu and Kashmir (ISJK) terror outfit, returned home on Sunday afternoon.

The identity of the student was not disclosed due to security reasons.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police, without mentioning the name of any individual, tweeted, "With the help of family and #police an individual (name withheld) has been brought back to the mainstream. Further details shall follow."

A resident of Khanyar in downtown Srinagar city, the 20-year-old showed up on social networking sites wearing a black turban and black pathan suit with ammunition pouch tied to his chest amid an Islamic State flag on his back.

He disappeared from his university in Noida in the middle of October.

The news of his disappearance had left the family shell-shocked and they knocked every door possible to convince him to return. The police, as a goodwill gesture, had assured every possible assistance to ensure the return of their son.

Pictures of family members with folded hands splashed in local newspapers with a request for him to return home "at least to shoulder the coffin of his parents" earlier last month had motivated the young man to approach his family.

His parents made passionate appeals to the terror groups to send home their son, who was studying B.Tech at the Sharda University in Noida.

They stated, "he is the only son in entire Sofi clan and should be allowed to join back his family."

His father was quoted in the appeal as saying "My son, you used to say heaven lies beneath the feet of parents, so come and live with us again."

These appeals and back-channel negotiations finally yielded results when he returned to his house this afternoon. Immediately, a police team took him to an undisclosed location for providing medical help.

A senior police official rubbished the claims that he had been detained.

"We are human too. We support the parents of the young man. There is no case registered against him and he has been taken only for medical assistance required. The family members are with him," the official said.San Francisco: Microsoft's much talked-about foldable Surface device, codenamed "Andromeda", may hit the market in 2019, according to a new book titled "Beneath a Surface".

The book by journalist and tech blog Thurrot.com collaborator Brad Sams, which started shipping on November 29, covers how Microsoft built the Surface brand and also details some of the upcoming Surface products.

"Beneath a Surface" tells how the Redmond, Washington-headquartered software giant made its hardware dreams a reality by turning "a failure into a fortune".

Surface Phone enthusiasts earlier this year ran a petition on "Change.org" to persuade Microsoft to reverse its reported decision to cancel the dual-screen computing device.

But the new book suggests that "Andromeda", a foldable device that is a phone and a tablet, could be in the hands of the people next year itself.

The book suggests that Andromeda could be a bit larger that the "pocketable" design seen in the patents.

"Again, this device will ship when it's ready and there is justification for it but the company sees it as a visionary device and it is currently slated for a Q4 (of 2019) release," the author wrote in a blog post.

South Korean smartphone maker Samsung last month unveiled a foldable smartphone and announced that it would release the device in the first half of 2019. Chinese giant Huawei is also reportedly working on a similar device.

"And the device that started the entire book, the Surface Pro will get heavily updated in Q4 of 2019 with thinner bezels, new colour options, USB-C, and a few other enhancements," Sams added.New Delhi: Former Indian cricketer Sreesanth was rushed to hospital after he banged his head inside the Bigg Boss 12 house. He reportedly injured himself on Saturday. Soon he was discharged from the hospital, his wife Bhuvneshwari took to Twitter to thank the fans for their prayers and wishes.

"Hi guys When I read about Sree being taken 2 hospitals I got very worried. Spoke to the team. He had severe pain so was taken to hospital for checkup and X-ray. He's back in BB house now. Nothing to worry. Thank you so much for ur love and concerns????????#SreeFam #Sreesanth, "Bhuvneshwari's tweet read.

On the recent Weekend Ka Vaar, host Salman Khan had reprimanded Sreesanth for badmouthing Surbhi Rana and slut-shaming her. While the episode was still on Sree locked himself in the bathroom and sobbed inconsolably. He also banged his head and kept crying while the other housemates tried to pacify him.New Delhi: Bollywood actress Sonali Bendre has returned to Mumbai after undergoing treatment for cancer in New York. Sonali was spotted with her husband Goldie Behl by her side. The actress was diagnosed with high-grade cancer which had metastasized. Bendre took to social media to talk about her illness. Since then the actress has been inspiring posts about her battle with cancer.

Sonali was time and again visited by her Bollywood friends Priyanka Chopra, Sussanne Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Akshay Kumar and Neetu Kapoor among others.

Check out the pictures:

Earlier, Sonali shared excitement about returning to India on Instagram. However, she also revealed that her battle with cancer is not over yet but she is looking forward to embracing a normal life that awaits her in India.

Sonali wrote, "They say "Distance makes the heart grow fonder". It sure does. But let's never underestimate what distance teaches you. Being away from home in the city of New York, I realized I was walking amongst so many stories. Each trying to write their own chapter in different ways. Each struggling to do it but never giving up. Each taking it #OneDayAtATime.

And now I'm on my way back to where my heart is. It's a feeling I can't describe in words but I'm going to try - it's the joy to see my family and friends again, the excitement to do what I love and mainly the gratitude for the journey I've had up until this moment. The fight is not yet over...but I'm happy and looking forward to this happy interval :) It's time to learn that there is a new normal out there and I can't to embrace it. And as my adventure with life continues these words by Chris Martin hit home, "Everything you want is a dream away. Under this pressure, under this weight We are diamonds taking shape..."

Sonali regularly updates about her condition on social media and often shares pictures and videos. She has documented each phase of braving the disease and has emerged as a really strong person.

Here's wishing Sonali a speedy recovery!New Delhi: Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas' Jodhpur wedding is the talk of the town. The couple got married on December 1, in a Christain style ceremony. A day later, on December 2, 'Nickyanka' solemnized their wedding as per Hindu tradition. The couple's wedding was an amalgmation of two cultures and was a grand affair.

As per a Filmfare report, Priyanka's mother in law, Denise Jonas gifted her a pair of earrings from Van Cleef & Arpels. The cost of the earrings is $79,500 i.e. Rs 55 Lakhs, the report reveals.

Pee Cee's wedding venue was well guarded and guests weren't allowed to carry smartphones with them. This is why no pics or videos from the wedding had made their way on the internet.

Reports were that Priyanka's wedding pics rights have been sold to an International magazine.

Pee Cee and Nick's wedding photographer, Jose Villa took to Instagram stories and shared the details of the wedding pics. As per his post, the wedding pics will be available in People magazine.

'Nickyanka' is now gearing up for the big reception in Delhi which will take place on December 4, 2018.

Pee Cee and Nick made their relationship as well as engagement official by sharing pictures from their roka ceremony in August this year. Things have escalated quickly for the two as it was only last year that reports of them dating each other had surfaced.

By tying the knot this December, the two have entered the 'newly-wedded' club and we couldn't be more thrilled.

Here's extending heartfelt wishes to the couple!ISLAMABAD: US President Donald Trump has sought Pakistan`s help with Afghan peace talks in a letter to Prime Minister Imran Khan, the South Asian nation`s information minister, Fawad Chaudhry, said on Monday.

Trump wants to end a 17-year-old war between Afghan security forces and the Afghan Taliban militants, who are fighting to drive out international forces and establish their version of strict Islamic law. US officials have long been pushing Pakistan to lean on the Taliban leadership, which Washington says is based in the country, to bring them to the negotiating table.

"President Trump has written a letter," Chaudhry told Reuters. "He has asked for Pakistans cooperation to bring the Taliban into talks."

Trump told Khan the Pakistan relationship was very important to the United States and to finding a solution to the Afghanistan conflict, Chaudhry added.

The US embassy in Islamabad had no immediate comment on the letter.

Last month, Trump said in an interview Pakistan doesn`t "do a damn thing" for the United States despite billions of dollars in U.S. aid, adding that Pakistani officials knew of former al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden`s location before his killing by U.S. troops in a 2011 raid inside Pakistan.

Last week, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said he had formed a 12-strong team to negotiate peace with the Taliban, but warned that implementation of any deal would take at least five years.

Dubai: Iran said on Sunday it would continue missile tests to build up its defences and denied this was in breach of UN resolutions following US allegations that Tehran had tested a new missile capable of carrying multiple warheads.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Saturday condemned what he called Iran`s testing of a medium-range ballistic missile in violation of the 2015 international agreement on the Iranian nuclear programme, from which Washington has withdrawn.

"Missile tests ... are carried out for defence and the country`s deterrence, and we will continue this," Brigadier- General Abolfazl Shekarchi, spokesman for Iran`s armed forces, was quoted as saying by the semi-official Tasnim news agency.

"We will continue to both develop and test missiles. This is outside the framework of (nuclear) negotiations and part of our national security, for which we will not ask any country`s permission," Shekarchi said.

He did not confirm or deny Iran had tested a new missile.

Earlier, US National Security Adviser John Bolton tweeted: "Iran just test-fired a ... ballistic missile capable of reaching Israel and Europe. This provocative behaviour cannot be tolerated."

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi also said Iranian missiles were purely defensive and added: "There is no Security Council resolution prohibiting missile programme and missile tests by Iran."

UN Security Council resolution 2231 enshrined Iran`s 2015 nuclear deal with Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States in which Tehran curbed its disputed uranium enrichment programme in exchange for an end to international sanctions.

The resolution says Iran is "called upon" to refrain for up to eight years from work on ballistic missiles designed to deliver nuclear weapons.

"SURREALISM IN FOREIGN AFFAIRS"

Iran has repeatedly said its missile programme is purely defensive and denied that its missiles are capable of being tipped with nuclear warheads, or that it has any intent of developing nuclear weapons through uranium enrichment.

In May, President Donald Trump pulled Washington out of the nuclear deal, approved before he took office, and reimposed sanctions on Tehran. Trump said the deal was flawed as it did not include curbs on Iran`s development of ballistic missiles or its support for armed proxies in Syria, Yemen, Lebanon and Iraq.

"Surrealism is now the US` modus operandi in its foreign affairs," Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted.

"While (the United States) itself violates (U.N. Security Council resolution) 2231  and even threatens to punish those who don`t wish to violate it in abiding with illegal US sanctions  it now falsely accuses Iran of violating the very SAME resolution," Zarif added.

Separately, Zarif accused Washington of arming militant groups that fight against the Tehran-backed Syrian government and the Iranian-aligned Houthi movement in Yemen.

"US (is) proliferating advanced weapons to extremists incl Al Qaeda & ISIS (Islamic State)," Zarif tweeted, referring to a British newspaper report that said many arms supplied by Britain and the United States had ended up in the hands of militias fighting in the Yemen war.

British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt tweeted that he was deeply concerned by "Iran`s test-firing of a medium range ballistic missile. Provocative, threatening and inconsistent with UNSCR 2231".

"Our support for (the Iran nuclear accord) in no way lessens our concern at Iran`s destabilising missile programme and determination that it should cease," Hunt added.ABUJA: Nigeria`s President Buhari on Sunday denied claims that he had died and been replaced by a Sudanese impostor, breaking his silence on a rumour that has circulated on social media for months.

Buhari, who is running for re-election in February, spent five months in Britain last year being treated for an undisclosed illness. One theory widely aired on social media - and by some political opponents - was that he had been replaced by a lookalike from Sudan called Jubril.

No evidence has been presented, but videos making the claim have still been viewed thousands of times on YouTube and Facebook.

"It`s real me, I assure you. I will soon celebrate my 76th birthday and I will still go strong," Buhari told Nigerians in a town hall session in Poland, where he was attending a conference, when asked about Jubril.

"A lot of people hoped that I died during my ill health," he said, adding that those who spread the rumour were "ignorant and irreligious".

The presidency circulated Buhari`s comments in an emailed statement entitled "It`s Real Me, President Buhari Responds to Cloning Allegation".

PATRIARCH BARTHOLOMEW I (pictured), the first among equals in the stormy world of Orthodox Christianity, seemed like a model of composure as he prepared this week for what promises to be one of the most turbulent months in the recent history of the eastern church.

During a three-day meeting in Istanbul of the bishops under Bartholomews immediate sway, it was confirmed that a unification council will be convened in Ukraine in December in order to establish a new Ukrainian Orthodox church that will duly receive a formal grant of independence from the Patriarch. This will further enrage the ecclesiastical and worldly authorities in Moscow who insist that a church subject to the Moscow Patriarchate is the only legitimate Orthodox body in Ukraine. There is clearly some concern in Moscow that some clergy now under Muscovite authority may peel off and join the new Ukrainian body. But it remains very unclear who will lead the new Ukrainian church and what its exact status will be.

Related: Constantinople approves draft project of Ukrainian Church statute

The drama is unfolding against a background of looming crisis in the earthly relations between Moscow and Kiev, after Russian forces seized three Ukrainian boats between the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea; Ukraine, in a move that will have consequences for church affairs, has just banned Russian men from entering the country except in exceptional humanitarian circumstances.

Addressing visitors to his Istanbul headquarters last night, Patriarch Bartholomew said:

We believe we are doing the correct thing. It is a right of the Ukrainian Orthodox to have their own autocephalous, independent churchjust as all the peoples of the Balkans, starting with Greece, acquired their own churcheswe knew that our fraternal church in Russia would be upset, but we could not act any different.

Related: Russia loses battle for the Orthodox Church with Ukraine

The Patriarchate of Moscow, which is the largest of the 14 churches that make up world Orthodoxy, on October 15th severed communion with the Patriarchate of Constantinople headed by Bartholomew I and told its faithful not to participate in communion or other sacramental rites in churches under Bartholomews authority. Any Russian believer who ignored this order would have to confess this transgression and seek forgiveness, the Muscovite decree proclaimed.

The standoff between Constantinople, which commands the prestige of antiquity and historical continuity, and the worldly heft of Moscow has forced the other Orthodox churches to take sides. Many of the Slavic Orthodox, including the Poles and Serbs, have leaned towards Moscows view that Constantinople cannot act unilaterally over Ukraine. However, Patriarch Bartholomew received a warm welcome from the Orthodox hierarchy in Romania, an overwhelmingly Orthodox country, when he went there on November 24th to inaugurate a new cathedral.

One of the most nuanced responses has come from the 89-year-old leader of the Orthodox church in Albania, Archbishop Anastasios, who is an internationally respected scholar of comparative religion. On the one hand, he said, the latest developments confirmed his fears that granting ecclesiastical independence to Ukraine might be a march in a minefield, but on the other, he felt that the Patriarchate of Moscow was at fault in using the Eucharist, Christianitys holiest rite, as an instrument of power.

Related: Churches collected 16 mln euros for Donbas victims as part of Pope for Ukraine project

In a letter to Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, Archbishop Anastasios declared:

It is unthinkable that the Divine Eucharist, the mystery par excellence of the infinite love and the utter humiliation of Christ, could be used as a weapon against another Church. Is it possible that the decision and order of the hierarchy of the Church of Russia may cancel the energy of the Holy Spirit in the holy Orthodox churches that operate under the jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate [of Constantinople]?

In other words, down with the weaponisation of the chalice. Things have moved on since 1208 when a medieval pope punished Englands King John by declaring most of the church sacraments in his land invalid.

Related: Ukrainian Orthodox Church denies appointment of bishops council on November 22

Read the original text at The Economist.Recently, the leaders of Greece, Cyprus, Italy, and Israel have agreed on the implementation of an ambitious project - the EastMed gas pipeline (abbreviated from the Eastern Mediterranean region). The pipeline is planned to be built until 2025. EastMed could become the deepest pipeline in the world and connect the Israeli gas fields Leviathan and Tamar on the shelf with the European market. The capacity of the new gas pipeline would be 20 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year and it will stretch for 2.2 thousand km, 170 km from the southern coast of Cyprus under the Mediterranean Sea, across the territory of Crete and continental Greece to the Otranto port in southern Italy. EastMed could become a panacea for reducing the EUs dependence on the Russian gas and create competition for Gazproms offshore pipelines. Nevertheless, constructing a pipeline at the great depths of the Mediterranean Sea is a very complex process. Most importantly, there are pitfalls of a political nature for the supply of Israeli gas to Europe, due to the interests of third parties.

Attempt to kick Russian gas habit

At first glance, the EastMed project might seem too fantastic. It significantly exceeds the length of Nord Stream 2 Russian gas pipelines along the bottom of the Baltic Sea (1,224 km) and the TurkStream through the Black Sea (1,090 km). The average depth of the Mediterranean Sea is 1,500 meters, and the maximum depth is over 5 thousand meters. The most difficult part of the TurkStream is at a depth of 2,200 kilometers. Nevertheless, the leaders of Israel and Greece are quite optimistic about the construction of the EastMed gas pipeline.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras called the project a landmark moment in his country's cooperation with Cyprus and Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the construction of a "big alliance" of the three democracies, stressing that EastMed would reduce the influence of Arab countries that supply energy to Europe. According to Israels Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz, the project is estimated at $ 7.36 billion; marginally more than the declared cost of TurkStream ($ 7 billion) and significantly less than the price of the Nord Stream 2 ($ 11 billion).

Surely, Brussels has a great interest to the EastMed project. According to the Israeli Hadashot TV channel, the EU agreed to invest $ 100 million in justifying the feasibility of the project even before an agreement on its implementation was reached. It is obvious that supporters of reducing the EUs energy dependence on Russia and diversifying energy import destinations are interested in supplying Israeli gas. Russian natural gas accounts for 38% of EU gas imports. By 2030, natural gas imports to the EU could increase by 100 billion cubic meters. Last year, the Europeans imported more than 400 cubic meters. The interests of Germany, which wants to receive income from the transit of Russian gas, and investors, contractors from 9 EU member countries participating in the implementation of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline project, should not be extrapolated on the entire European Union.

President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker believes that there is no consensus on the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline in the EU, and some countries are opposed to the project because of the unwillingness of Russia's increasing influence on European policy. According to him, no one should take a dominant position that damages competitors, and all countries of Central and Eastern Europe should have equal access to the energy supplies. Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, and Denmark oppose the construction of the Nord Stream - 2. The European Parliament supports amendments to the gas directive on the regulation of offshore pipelines from third countries, such as Nord Stream 2 and TurkStream, prohibiting one legal entity to act as a supplier and seller of gas (namely, Gazprom). European Council President Donald Tusk is convinced that Nord Stream 2 is a mistake and does not meet the EU interests.

Perhaps, supporters of reducing gas dependence on Russia create obstacles to the construction of the second branch of the TurkStream to Europe with the help of the EastMed. In late November, the construction of the TurkStream offshore section was completed. Both branches are designed for the supply of 15.75 cubic meters of natural gas annually: first, to the Turkish gas market, and second, to Europe (through the territory of Greece and Italy). Earlier, Italy participated in the implementation of the Russian South Stream gas pipeline project canceled in 2014. Even the project of Poseidon Italian-Greek gas pipeline was developed, supposed to pass along the seabed to the port of Otranto thus transiting Russian gas.

Side effects

The construction of the EastMed gas pipeline is at odds with the interests of Russia and Turkey, which might lose their source of profits from the supply of natural gas to Europe. Israel, Cyprus, and Greece should prepare for the provocations of the Turkish Navy in the Eastern Mediterranean, aimed at disrupting the project. In October, Turkish President Recep Erdogan announced that his country intends to assert its sovereign rights in the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean, where it has territorial disputes with Greece and Cyprus. Turkey opposes the exploration of natural gas reserves by the Republic of Cyprus in its exclusive economic zone on the shelf of the island since it allegedly violates the rights of Turkish separatists from the unrecognized state of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The other day, Erdogan carried out another anti-Israeli demarche: he called on Muslims to protect mosques in Jerusalem and support Palestine.

Turkish Minister of Defense Hulusi Akar believes that his country will not tolerate the intervention of Greece in the Eastern Mediterranean. In February 2018, Turkish warships blocked the access of a research vessel of the Italian oil and gas company ENI to gas fields on the Cyprus shelf. Although the Israeli fields Leviathan and Tamar are not subject to the Greek-Turkish contradictions, the EastMed gas pipeline will run close to a potential zone of escalation of tension. Turkey might carry out military provocations at the coast of Cyprus in order to increase the risks of project implementation.

Ambiguous consequences for the US

It is doubtful that US President Donald Trump would be pleased with the prospect of exporting natural gas from the Israeli shelf will. Former President Barack Obama and the Democrats supported initiatives like EastMed, such as the idea of building the Qatari gas pipeline or the Trans-Adriatic pipeline to reduce the dependence of the EUs energy dependence on Russia. Trump is not just interested in the reduction of the supply of Russian natural gas to Europe, but also in taking this vacated niche.

Nord Stream 2 and TurkStream gas pipelines are perceived in the White House as competitors to US natural gas. The EastMed project creates competition for Republican gas interests in Southern Europe. Last year, American suppliers exported liquefied gas to Italy, Spain, Portugal, and also to Israel.

The states are not interested in their old military-political ally taking away their profits in the European Union. On the other hand, reducing the volume of Russian natural gas supplies to southern Europe in the case of the EastMed project implementation will allow Russia to stop Russia's efforts to gain a foothold in this region. Russia flirts with the ruling parties in Italy, the League of the North and the Five Star Movement. The Kremlin can increase influence in the Balkans. One of the routes for supplying natural gas to Europe via the TurkStream is the territory of Macedonia and Serbia. The Israeli-European gas pipeline might be disadvantageous to the United States due to the economic reasons, but it might have some political interest.

Ukrainian dilemma

The emergence of Israeli gas in Europe might have ambiguous consequences for Ukraine. On the one hand, the transit of natural gas from Russia replenishes the treasury. Last year, 93.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas were supplied to Europe through the gas transmission system of Ukraine. Ukraines revenues from the transit of Russian natural gas amounted to $ 3 billion. Regardless of whether Russian gas pipelines are built to bypass our gas transportation system or projects aimed at ousting Russian gas from the European market, transit through Ukraine will be reduced. According to the expert in the field of energy Leonid Unigovsky, the transit of natural gas through the territory of Ukraine will be reduced by 12 billion cubic meters, and the annual loss in monetary terms will amount to $ 500 million.

On the other hand, we would prefer the implementation of the EastMed project purely for political reasons. In the event of a reduction in the share of Russian gas in the European market, if Gazprom gets new competitors, the inflow of funds into the Russian economy will decrease, which will increase the effect of anti-Russian sanctions. The oil and gas industry remains one of the most profitable for the Russian Federation. Energy exports are one of the main sources of replenishment of the Russian treasury.

Read the original text at 112.ua.Disagreements between the European Union and the new Italian authorities have reached its peak. At a meeting of the Economic and Finance Committee of the Council of the EU, representatives of the governments of the member states approved the proposal of the European Commission to introduce restrictive measures against Italy if the government of populists and Eurosceptics refuses to amend the budget for the 2019 year. The European Commission believes that the Italian authorities are moving away from solving the problem of the budget deficit. Brussels is afraid of worsening of the situation in the Eurozone amid increasing government spending and the debt burden of Italy. However, official Rome is confident that the new budget would contribute to the economic growth of the country. If it comes to sanctions, then intervention in the internal affairs of Italy in order to save the EU may entail undesirable consequences for the European Union and Ukraine.

Open source

Luigi di Maio, Giuseppe Cont, and Matteo Salvini

Italy violated the rules of the EU game

A reason for imposing sanctions against Italy could be the refusal of the coalition of the far-right party Northern League of Matteo Salvini and the populist Five Star Movement of Luigi Di Maio to follow the rules of the EU game. The Maastricht agreements of 1993 require from the EU member countries that the budget deficit does not exceed 3% of GDP, and the level of public debt should be at no more than 60% of GDP. The budget deficit in Italy reached the upper limit (2.4% in 2017), and debt burden indicators are going off the scale. The state debt is 2.3 billion euros or 133.1% of GDP. The situation is aggravated by the slow growth of the Italian economy, which was 0.8% in the third quarter of 2018 (the lowest figures since 2015). Negative trends are observed in the Italian labor market. In September, the unemployment rate among Italian youth reached 30.60%, while in the EU this figure is 16.80%.

The new government of Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, formed by Northern League and Five Stars Movement parties in June 2018, has developed a draft budget with an increase in government spending. The prime minister believes that it is necessary to increase the flow of investment in order to promote economic growth after several years of austerity. The Conte government plans to keep the budget deficit at 2.4% next year, reduce the retirement age, and spend 10 billion euros to increase pensions and minimum wages to improve the welfare of 6.5 million poor Italians.

The Italian authorities hope to solve the problem of youth unemployment. According to the Minister of Economy Giovanni Tria people will be able to retire early, and firms will employ young professionals who meet the modern needs of the market.

EU tough response

The European Commission has long been talking about sanctions against Italy because of the reluctance to solve the problem of the budget deficit. European Commissioner for Economic and Financial Affairs, Taxation and Customs Pierre Moscovici considers them a necessary measure in response to the unwillingness of the Italian authorities to change their policies. Eurozone finance ministers plan to hold a meeting on December 3-4 on the Italian issue and would certainly discuss the sanctions. Official Brussels does not specify what kind of restrictive measures might affect Rome. Penalties might include a ban on the supply of arms, export and import, financial restrictions, restriction of freedom of movement for individuals. However, all these measures concern the third countries and are currently applied to Russia, Venezuela, Belarus, North Korea, Syria, Afghanistan, and more than 30 countries of the world. The European Commission might cut the financing of Italy from European funds or else deprive the country of its voice in the supranational bodies of the EU. Similar measures had to be applied to Poland and Hungary, which refused to host Muslim refugees.

Back in October, European Commission Vice-President for the Euro and Social Dialogue Valdis Dombrovskis rejected the draft budget of Italy for the 2019th year and gave the government three weeks to adjust to the interests of the Eurozone. He believes that the situation in Italy is a matter of collective concern since the steps taken by the Conte government could lead to even greater savings and budget cuts in the future. Brussels fears that the expenses of the Conte government could lead to an increase in the Italian budget deficit by 1.4%. According to estimates by the consulting firm Capital Economics, the planned expenses of the Italian government in 2019 could cost 67 billion euros and might lead to an increase in the budget deficit to 6.2% of GDP.

The bitter harvest sowed towards the war with Eurosceptics

It seems that the Italian authorities are looking at the threat of Brussels sanctions. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said that if the European Commission decides to impose sanctions against Italy, let them act longer so that his government has time to promote economic growth and reduce the budget deficit. The Minister of the Interior and one of Deputy Prime Ministers, Matteo Salvini, who is almost the shadow cardinal of the Italian government, ironically perceived the information about possible European Commission sanctions, compared them with the gift from Santa Claus for the New Year and confirmed his intention to continue the unpopular in Brussels pension reform. Another Deputy Prime Minister, Luigi Di Maio, indignantly stressed that the EU cannot do this to Italy after several years of "massacre," which implies austerity measures.

Italian Eurosceptics might drag out austerity measures until the next elections to the European Parliament and the formation of a new European Commission thus hoping to secure some concessions. They might even blackmail Brussels by an exit from the EU or the eurozone if the pressure on their country continues. In February 2018, Salvini allowed Italy to withdraw from the EU if it fails to agree on returning European integration to the European Economic Community stage that existed before the signing of the 1993 Maastricht Agreement.

If Brussels imposes sanctions against Italy, then Northern League and Five Star Movement will accuse the EU of interfering in the internal affairs of a sovereign state and further shake the unity within the EU on various issues, including anti-Russian sanctions. Conte advocates a dialogue with Russia, the restoration of the G8 format, and suggested that the sanctions be made temporary. Salvini openly advocates their abolition. Against the background of growing contradictions with the European Commission, Italian Eurosceptics might play the Russian card, which is not beneficial for Ukraine.

Read the original text at 112.ua.On December 2, militants opened fire on Ukrainian positions in Donbas seven times. The Ukrainian troops took no casualties over the said period, the HQ of the Joint Forces Operation reported.

The enemy attacked outposts near Stanytsia Luhanska, Krasnohorivka, Novomykhailivka, Slavne, Taramchuk and Lebedynske. No heavy weaponry use was observed.

Heavy machine guns and grenade launchers were used during attacks on Taramchuk. Near Stanytsia Luhanska, the Russian mercenaries fired heavy machine guns.

82 mm mines hit the vicinities of Krymske.

Ukraine's military intelligence reported that three militants were killed, and five more sustained wounds in action.A Bellingcat probe has found that Russia fired on at least one Ukrainian naval boat in neutral waters, and aimed to hit the Ukrainian seamen, not their boats. It also looks likely that none of this act of war was in any way spontaneous

Confrontation between Russian and Ukrainian military vessels, November 25, 2018 TASS

Russias President Vladimir Putin is in a bad position, and needs a fourth war to save him. This assessment, by Russian political analyst Dmitry Oreshkin, was published on 23 November, just two days before Russian FSB border guards rammed and then opened fire on Ukrainian naval boats in the Azov Sea. If the link between wars leashed by the Kremlin and Putins popularity is easily traced, so too are other indications from the Russian Foreign Ministry and propaganda media that there was nothing spontaneous about Russias unconcealed act of aggression against Ukraine on 25 November.

The Hybrid Warfare Analytical Groups monitoring of Russian media noted that Leonid Kalashnikov, head of the Duma Committee on CIS Eurasian Relations, had already talked of possible provocation in the Azov Sea by Ukraine three days before the attack. Kalashnikov was talking a day after the Foreign Ministry issued a statement expressing concern over continuing efforts by Ukraine to exacerbate the situation in the Azov Sea.

This would not be the first time that Russia had set the stage in advance for supposed acts of provocation or sabotage by Ukraine. At the beginning of August 2016, Russia tried to convince the world that Ukraine had tried to encroach upon its own territory, and that Russias FSB had captured Ukrainian saboteurs working for Ukraines Defence Ministry. One of the multiple problems with this story was that the occupation regime had blocked most Ukrainian Internet channels immediately prior to this alleged Ukrainian incursion.

Kalashnikovs prediction had not come in a vacuum, since Russias attempts to block the Kerch Strait and seize full control of the Azov Sea had begun back in May 2018. The immediate shouts of provocation were also hardly surprising. It would be difficult to talk of an attack or similar, when it was a Ukrainian naval boat that was rammed, three boats that were fired upon and then seized, with 24 Ukrainian sailors taken prisoner.

It seems likely that the provocation was all on the Russian side, hoping that Ukraine would react inadequately, either by itself opening fire, or by later imposing measures that were excessive. By the evening of 25 November, one of the versions being especially pushed was that Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko had orchestrated the events to justify martial law and the cancellation of presidential elections he looks likely, at the moment, to lose.

Moscow is still pushing this and related versions, claiming that Ukraine did not warn of the boats passage through the Kerch Strait and that it had been shot at while in Russian territorial waters.

Even if such claims were true, they would not have warranted Russias behaviour and the narrative seems mainly for local consumption. So too are the angry cries of Russophobia when the rest of the world condemns Russias effective act of war and demands that the imprisoned sailors be released.

The assertions are not, in any case, true. While it may be a matter of whom you believe when it comes to whether Ukraine gave prior warning, other aspects of the events can be geolocated and checked.

Bellingcat has played an invaluable role in the investigation into the downing by a Russian BUK missile of Malaysian airliner MH17 over occupied Crimea on 17 July 2014. Here too they have carried out an extensive probe of all available video footage, etc. and compared this with the conflicting accounts given of the events. The believe that the Russian Don rammed the Ukrainian towboat Yany Kapu twice, and certainly the video released shortly afterwards makes it quite clear that at least one occasion was quite deliberate.

The Ukrainian vessels were later pursued and fired on after they tried to leave the area, having been prevented from passing under the illegal Crimean Bridge. One particularly disturbing conclusion that Bellingcat reaches (confirming all previous Ukrainian reports) is that the damage to the boats shows that the FSB border guards fired to hit the vessels Ukrainian crew, not to cause damage to the ships themselves.

Bellingcats investigation found also that the FSBs own information suggests that the shooting of the Berdyansk, one of the three boats, was indisputably in neutral waters.

Obviously Russia is, in any case, illegally annexing Crimea and its conscription of the Kerch Bridge which enables it to block both Ukrainian and international vehicles is in violation of the bilateral 2003 agreement with Ukraine and international legislation.

It should not be forgotten that none of the Russian claims would justify chasing and firing at Ukrainian boats attempting to leave the area, and then taking their crew prisoner. The video confessions forced out of three men and other information that the captured men have managed to pass on via lawyers make it clear also that Russia is in grave breach of the Geneva Convention in its treatment of the 24 prisoners of war it seized.

In his 23 November article: Putins in a bad situation: hell be saved by a fourth war, Oreshkin noted that Putin had had three surges of popularity  after the war in Chechnya, then the war against Georgia and, finally the war against Ukraine. His popularity is now at 58%, as against 86-87% at the peak of the Crimea is ours [""] euphoria.

In order to achieve a second wave of popularity, Putin would need to organize yet another small victorious war or campaign.

Oreshkin, in fact, does not see any option for carrying this off, though he is certainly not alone in assuming that Russias open aggression against Ukraine has a great deal to do with Putins waning popularity and the mounting economic woes in the country.

James Sherr from the authoritative Chatham House think tank believes that Constantinoples recognition of autocephalic status for a united Ukrainian Orthodox Church and its independence from the Moscow Patriarchate was a major geopolitical defeat for Moscow. It was no accident that Putin reacted by calling a meeting of the Russian Security Council. He had, he says, been expecting something like what happened in the Azov Sea since that time.

He also assumes that another reason could have been Putins wish to provoke Poroshenko into imposing a harsh form of martial law, with resulting rights restrictions and cancellation of the elections. Whether this would, as Sherr suggests, have led to another Maidan is probably in question, but it would certainly have been in Russias favour.

Most western analysts and politicians are clear that Moscow is seeking to destabilize Ukraine, with this achieved directly by the economic effects of blocking the Azov Sea, as well as other negative consequences if this effective annexing of the Kerch Strait does not meet with real opposition and painful consequences from western countries.

The West has thus far made a lot of statements, but has done little. In the light of the apparent unwillingness to add new sanctions, Sherrs suggestion warrants attention. He proposes that the European Union and USA announce a strict review of all current sanctions over Crimea  determine whether they are adequate, who is affected by them, with what consequences, and what steps are needed to ensure that the sanctions are more effective.

The Russian politicians and others named in the USAs first list of sanctions laughed and pretended to be flattered. While subsequent sanctions hit harder, they are still easily bypassed, as Siemens most shamefully demonstrated in 2017, and are clearly not hurting enough. Russia has now committed an act of open warfare, and is holding 24 Ukrainian prisoners of war. If the West continues to wax indignant in words alone, Putin alone will be laughing.

Read the original text at Human Rights in Ukraine.

Related video:Poland insists that Russia should be responsible for its aggression in the Kerch Strait and the European Union should impose sanctions

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko (on the left) shakes hand with Polish Foreign Minister Jacek Czaputowicz (on the right) during their meeting in Kyiv, Ukraine, 01 December 2018 EPA

President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko met with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland Jacek Czaputowicz on Saturday to exchange views on important issues of bilateral relations and the international agenda, the website of the Ukrainian president has reported.

"They discussed the issue of maintaining an intensive political dialogue at the highest level, expanding cooperation in the areas of trade and economy, defense, energy security and cross-border cooperation," the message reads.

Poroshenko thanked the Polish side for the active support of Ukraine in the context of the act of armed aggression of the Russian Federation in the Kerch Strait. The parties emphasized the importance of the immediate and unconditional release of Ukrainian sailors and the return of three Ukrainian ships.

The Polish foreign minister conveyed words of solidarity and support to Ukraine in its struggle for the restoration of sovereignty and territorial integrity from all EU member-states.

The parties also exchanged views on important issues of bilateral relations and international agenda.

Particular attention was paid to the interaction of the two countries in the Euro-integration and Euro-Atlantic directions, as well as in the framework of international organizations.

The parties coordinated steps to use authoritative international platforms (the UN Security Council, the Council of Ministers of the OSCE, the Council of the EU) for the immediate restoration of freedom of navigation in the Azov-Kerch water area and de-escalation of the situation in the region.The president emphasized that Ukraine will defend the rights of all hostages of the Russian regime

The Russian Federation aims to destroy the indigenous people of Crimea, the Crimean Tatars. President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko emphasized this during his speech at the forum 70 years of common declaration of human rights: agenda for Ukraine, as 112 Ukraine reported.

If I have to turn briefly to the situation with human rights at the territory of Crimea it is arbitrariness, powerlessness, and total militarization. However, one more crime takes place there, the whole nation, the Crimean Tatars are destroyed. The occupation authority aims to do the thing that Stalin failed to, to destroy the leaders, announcing Mejlis the extremist organization, to ruin identity and dissolve the indigenous people of Crimea in the Russian melting pot, he noted.

Besides, Poroshenko reminded that UN General Assembly has adopted the resolution on the violation of human rights in occupied Crimea.

I want to emphasize that Ukraine will continue to do everything possible for the early return of all hostages from occupied Donbas and illegally annexed Crimea, political prisoners, who illegally detained in the Russian prisons to Ukraine, he added.

Earlier the Russian law enforcers searched the house of Halyna Balaban, the civil activist who works for the Ukrainian Culture Centre located on the occupied peninsula.Spokesperson of Russian President Peskov stated that Russia has never seized anything and has not paved any corridor anywhere

Open source

Spokesperson of Russian President Dmitry Peskov states that the Russian Federation does not intend to seize Ukrainian cities Mariupol and Berdyansk to penetrate a corridor to Crimea. He made such a statement commenting President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko as Interfax reported.

It is a completely absurd statement. It is one more attempt to provoke the tension in some way, Peskov said.

According to him, such statements are directly connected with the upcoming presidential elections in Crimea. It is clear that, probably, such attempts, to our regret, will continue in the run-up to the elections in Ukraine, he noted.

Peskov also assured that Russia has never seized anything and has not paved any corridor anywhere.

Earlier President Petro Poroshenko and Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin assume that Russia is preparing for the seizure of two Ukrainian seaside cities Mariupol and Berdyansk through the attack at the Ukrainian ships in Kerch Strait.

As we reported earlier, the coast guard ships of the Russian Navy acted aggressively against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, which have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov.

Given the tough situation in the area of Kerch Strait in the Sea of Azov, President Petro Poroshenko supported the offer of Ukraine's national security and defense council; it stipulates that the Ukrainian Parliament should consider the option to impose the martial law in Ukraine.

On November 28, the Uriadovy Kurier, the official outlet of the Ukrainian Cabinet, published the presidential decree No.392, which activates the decision of the National Security and Defense Council in Ukraine about the 30-days-long martial law in Ukraine.

Related video:According to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Polish consuls issued 1.2 million visas to Ukrainians in 2017

Open source

There are two million Ukrainians in Poland, who work for the Polish economy. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Poland Jacek Czaputowicz claimed this at the session of Ukranian-Polish partnership forum, Interfax-Ukraine reports.

Related: Ukrainians could teach Europe real European values

According to different assessments, there are almost two million Ukrainians in Poland, who work in our key areas of the economy: construction, agriculture and services. We appreciate their efforts and contribution to the development of our country, the Minister said.

In addition, according to Czaputowicz, 40,000 students from Ukraine are studying in Polish universities.

Related: Ukrainians protest against Russian aggression near UN main office in New York

The Polish Minister added that the Polish consuls issued 1.2 million visas to Ukrainians in 2017.

Earlier, the international organization for migration reported that Ukrainians mostly fall into labor slavery in Poland and the Russian Federation.December 4, the personnel of the Consulate will figure out information about domestic accounts, allegedly opened for Ukranian sailors, and about the transfer of funds

Personnel of Ukrainian Consulate in Moscow sent official inquiries to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia and the administration of the remand centers of Lefortovo and Matrosskaya Tishina regarding the possibility of visiting the prisoners of war, Lyudmila Denisova, Ukraine's Ombudsman, reports.

I have received information from the Consular office of Ukraine in Moscow that its personnel directed official inquires to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation and the administration of remand centers of Lefortovo and Matrosskaya Tishina regarding the possibility of visiting the prisoners of war by Ukrainian consuls, including the wounded. I will immediately report on their answer, the Ombudsman said.

Related: Russias Azov Sea attack on Ukraine planned in advance?

She has also added that the personnel of the Consulate will figure out information about domestic accounts, which were allegedly opened for Ukranian sailors, and about the transfer of funds. The relevant information will be told to the families of the prisoners of war.

As we reported earlier, the coast guard ships of the Russian Navy acted aggressively against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, which have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov.

Related: Ukrainian diaspora in London protests against Russian aggression in Sea of Azov

Today, November 25, the ships of the Ukrainian Navy with two armored gunboats and a sea mule tugboat have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov. The intention to make the transition was informed in advance in accordance with international standards in order to ensure the safety of navigation. However, contrary to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Treaty between Ukraine and the Russian Federation on cooperation in the use of the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait, the Russian coast guard ships - Sobol class patrol boat, Don border guard cruiser, Mangust class patrol boat and Suzdalets anti-submarine warfare ship performed blatantly aggressive acts against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, reads the message.

Related: Putin not responded to Poroshenko's request regarding telephone conversation on Azov crisis

It is specified that Don border guard cruiser rammed the Ukrainian armored artillery boat, which led to the damage of the main engine.

The Ukrainian Navy states that "the dispatcher service of the occupiers refuses to ensure the right of freedom of navigation, guaranteed by international agreements." Thus, according to the Ukrainian side, Russia has once again demonstrated its aggressive nature and complete disregard for the norms of international law.There's still no information about the investigator in this case, Nikolai Polozov says

The Russian prosecutors officially accused Ukrainian sailors with the 'illegal crossing of the state border' during the Kerch Strait incident. The respective charges were filed yet on November 27. Nikolai Polozov, the Russian lawyer and human rights defender posted this on Monday.

Polozov said he asked the detention center's chief to visit Denys Hrytsenko, his defendant and one of the detained sailors.

'The system works in the unilateral mode. You file the documents... they can either call you and inform you on their decision - or not, and then they send you the answer via mail, a month after that', Polozov said.

There's still no information about the investigator in this case - or whether the case was handed over to the court, he added.

As we reported earlier the coast guard ships of the Russian Navy acted aggressively against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, which have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov.

Today, November 25, the ships of the Ukrainian Navy with two armored gunboats and a sea mule tugboat have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov. The intention to make the transition was informed in advance in accordance with international standards in order to ensure the safety of navigation. However, contrary to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Treaty between Ukraine and the Russian Federation on cooperation in the use of the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait, the Russian coast guard ships - Sobol class patrol boat, Don border guard cruiser, Mangust class patrol boat and Suzdalets anti-submarine warfare ship performed blatantly aggressive acts against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, reads the message.

It is specified that Don border guard cruiser rammed the Ukrainian armored artillery boat, which led to the damage of the main engine, planting and accommodation rail, life float is lost. The Ukrainian Navy states that "the dispatcher service of the occupiers refuses to ensure the right of freedom of navigation, guaranteed by international agreements.

The Ukrainian Navy states that "the dispatcher service of the occupiers refuses to ensure the right of freedom of navigation, guaranteed by international agreements." Thus, according to the Ukrainian side, Russia has once again demonstrated its aggressive nature and complete disregard for the norms of international law.

Related: Issue of exchange of detained Ukranian sailors is not on agenda, - Putin

Related: Moscow public monitoring commission visits Ukrainian sailors in remand center

Related: Trudeau urges Putin to release Ukrainian sailorsCzech Republic, flag Open source

Yaroslav Kuberta, the Chairman of Czech Republic Senate, and Radek Vondracek, the Chairman of the House of Representatives, support the preservation of the current anti-Russian sanctions, yet they do not consider their tightening, as Radio Praha reports.

I support anti-Russian sanctions, as, unfortunately, we dont have any other opportunity to manifest our disagreement with Russias actions, Kuberta said.

In addition, the representatives of the Senate stated that due to the Azov crisis, now the main goal is to bring both of the sides to the negotiating table.

At the same time, he stated that he did not support the tightening of the sanctions due to uncertainty of the interests, which each side of the conflict pursuits. Kuberta pointed at a negative influence of the pension reform on Putins reputation and Poroshenkos interests in terms of mobilizing the voters before the presidential elections.

In his turn, Radek Vondracek stated that he did not see any reasons to cancel anti-Russian sanctions as the reasons they have been imposed have never disappeared.

As we reported earlier, the coast guard ships of the Russian Navy acted aggressively against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, which have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov.

Related: Waterplane of Sea of Azov increases, rescuers warn of natural disaster

Today, November 25, the ships of the Ukrainian Navy with two armored gunboats and a sea mule tugboat have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov. The intention to make the transition was informed in advance in accordance with international standards in order to ensure the safety of navigation. However, contrary to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Treaty between Ukraine and the Russian Federation on cooperation in the use of the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait, the Russian coast guard ships - Sobol class patrol boat, Don border guard cruiser, Mangust class patrol boat and Suzdalets anti-submarine warfare ship performed blatantly aggressive acts against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, reads the message.

Related: Germany offers U.S., EU to close ports for Russian vessels coming from Sea of Azov

It is specified that Don border guard cruiser rammed the Ukrainian armored artillery boat, which led to the damage of the main engine, planting and accommodation rail, life float is lost. The Ukrainian Navy states that "the dispatcher service of the occupiers refuses to ensure the right of freedom of navigation, guaranteed by international agreements.

The Ukrainian Navy states that "the dispatcher service of the occupiers refuses to ensure the right of freedom of navigation, guaranteed by international agreements." Thus, according to the Ukrainian side, Russia has once again demonstrated its aggressive nature and complete disregard for the norms of international law.

Related: EU may extend sanctions against Russia in December, - Tusk

Related video:According to Dmitry Peskov, Putin's press secretary, it means Moscow is interested in effective cooperation on a mutually beneficial basis

Russian President Putin and Saudi Arabia crown prince Mohammed bin Salman at G20 Summit in Argentina Reuters

President of Russia Vladimir Putin and Mohammed bin Salman, crown prince of Saudi Arabia, have greeted each other informally at G20 Summit. Russia explained such Putins actions with an interest in a further development of bilateral relationships, as Dmitry Peskov, the press-secretary of the Russian President, said, RBK reported.

This is good personal relationships. In fact, it is a recipe for effective cooperation on a mutually beneficial basis, the press-secretary stressed.

It should be noted that within G20 Summit, held in Argentina on November 30  December 1, Putin and Mohammed bin Salman had a meeting. They agreed to prolong OPEC+ agreement. The Russian President noted that no final decision on specific amounts of oil production was made.

In addition, Putin agreed to visit Saudi Arabia in 2019, as Peskov said.

Besides, after their meeting, Brent oil price went up by 5%, which is $62,48 per barrel.

After this, the rouble rate against dollar and euro increased as well.

It was reported that on November 29, Trump announced that he had canceled the planned meeting with President Putin at the G20 summit in Argentina until Ukrainian sailors captured by Russians near the Kerch Strait are returned to Ukraine.

OPEC (The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) is a cartel created by the oil producer states to stabilize the prizes for petroleum. Countries which economy depends on the incomes from oil export are the member of the organization. Russia is an OPEC observer since 1998.

In summer 2018, OPEC member states and exporting countries signed an agreement on increase of oil production for 1 million barrels per day. Russia and Saudi Arabia presented this initiative.The speaker of the State Duma claimed that Russian border officers solved the tasks of protecting the border and complied with international norms and rules

The Committee of the State Duma of Russia has been commissioned to prepare awards for border guards, who captured Ukrainian ships in the Black Sea, as Interfax reports, citing speaker of the State Duma Vyacheslav Volodin.

From our side, we have commissioned the Security and Anti-Corruption Committee to consider the issue of awarding the border officers involved in preventing violations of our border and protecting the rule of law, Volodin said.

Related: Russias Azov Sea attack on Ukraine planned in advance?

According to him, chairman of the Committee Vasiliy Piskarev is tasked with elaborating this issue together with the relevant agency until the next meeting of the Council of the Duma. December 5, Piskarev will have to make proposals for awarding border guards. Volodin said that the Russian border guards acted perfectly, they courageously and effectively solved the border protection tasks that they faced with and complied with all international norms and rules.

Related: Ukrainian diaspora in London protests against Russian aggression in Sea of Azov

As we reported earlier, the coast guard ships of the Russian Navy acted aggressively against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, which have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov.

Today, November 25, the ships of the Ukrainian Navy with two armored gunboats and a sea mule tugboat have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov. The intention to make the transition was informed in advance in accordance with international standards in order to ensure the safety of navigation. However, contrary to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Treaty between Ukraine and the Russian Federation on cooperation in the use of the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait, the Russian coast guard ships - Sobol class patrol boat, Don border guard cruiser, Mangust class patrol boat and Suzdalets anti-submarine warfare ship performed blatantly aggressive acts against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, reads the message.

Related: Putin not responded to Poroshenko's request regarding telephone conversation on Azov crisis

It is specified that Don border guard cruiser rammed the Ukrainian armored artillery boat, which led to the damage of the main engine.

The Ukrainian Navy states that "the dispatcher service of the occupiers refuses to ensure the right of freedom of navigation, guaranteed by international agreements." Thus, according to the Ukrainian side, Russia has once again demonstrated its aggressive nature and complete disregard for the norms of international law.The Head of Ukraine expressed hope that this would happen and unlawful acts against our sailors will be finally suspended

According to the decision of the European Court of Human Rights, Russia has to provide information about capturing the Ukrainian sailors in neutral waters of Azov Sea, as President Poroshenko said opening the forum 70th anniversary of the Declaration of Human Rights: agenda for Ukraine, 112 Ukraine reported.

As a reaction to Ukraines appeal, the ECHR made an urgent and important decision: the organization obligated Russia to provide information about the capturing of the Ukrainian sailors, the legal reasons for the detention, the place of their detention, caused injuries, the medical care they receive. Russia has to provide this information today, he noted.

The Head of Ukraine expressed hope that this would happen and unlawful acts against our sailors will be finally suspended.

Its a lie, they are not criminals. According to the international law and Geneva Convention, they have a POW status and we demand to release them immediately and return sailors and vessels to Ukraine, he stressed.

As we reported earlier the coast guard ships of the Russian Navy acted aggressively against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, which have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov.

Today, November 25, the ships of the Ukrainian Navy with two armored gunboats and a sea mule tugboat have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov. The intention to make the transition was informed in advance in accordance with international standards in order to ensure the safety of navigation. However, contrary to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Treaty between Ukraine and the Russian Federation on cooperation in the use of the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait, the Russian coast guard ships - Sobol class patrol boat, Don border guard cruiser, Mangust class patrol boat and Suzdalets anti-submarine warfare ship performed blatantly aggressive acts against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, reads the message.

Related: Moscow public monitoring commission visits Ukrainian sailors in remand center

It is specified that Don border guard cruiser rammed the Ukrainian armored artillery boat, which led to the damage of the main engine, planting and accommodation rail, life float is lost. The Ukrainian Navy states that "the dispatcher service of the occupiers refuses to ensure the right of freedom of navigation, guaranteed by international agreements.

The Ukrainian Navy states that "the dispatcher service of the occupiers refuses to ensure the right of freedom of navigation, guaranteed by international agreements." Thus, according to the Ukrainian side, Russia has once again demonstrated its aggressive nature and complete disregard for the norms of international law.

Related: Trudeau urges Putin to release Ukrainian sailors

Related video:It is connected with the imposing martial law in Ukraine

Open source

Bulgaria Air Company made a decision to cease the flights from Sofia to Odesa until December 16 amid the imposing martial law in Ukraine to provide the security of the passengers as the official website of the company reported.

It is noted that the decision on the renewal of the flights after December 16 will be made depending on the normalization of the situation in Ukraine.

The air company advises the passengers to appeal to Customer Service Centre to get the relevant information and consultation on purchased tickets.

Foreign Ministry of Bulgaria reports on the advanced threat level in Ukraine and recommends not to perform flights to particular regions of Ukraine without necessity.

As we reported, the Hungarian Air Company Wizz Air considers a possibility to renew the activity of its subsidiary in Ukraine, Wizz Air Ukraine Company.

Besides, Ukraine's city of Kharkiv and London are now linked via the direct international connection between the airports, according to the decision of Wizz Air.

Moreover, Wizz Air company opened the direct flight from Kyiv to Vienna.Open source

A Ukranian citizen was killed in Naples, Italy, Il Giornale outlet reports.

According to this source, the 36-year-old man was killed at about 10:30 p.m. on December 2. As the witnesses report, the Ukrainian started fighting a with another man to defend a girl near the club, which is popular among Eastern European migrants.

He was stabbed several times during the fight, the arrived medics weren't able to save his life. The other participants of the fight managed to escape.

Related: Is dual citizenship punishable in Ukraine?

It was noted that the fighters were under the influence of alcohol.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine confirmed that the deceased is a Ukrainian citizen Yuriy Busuiok, who has been living in Italy for nine years together with his parents. Yuriy was a construction worker.

Currently, a criminal proceeding is initiated upon the murder and the circumstances are being investigated.Earlier, President Poroshenko said that calling of several NATO ships would be one of the possible ways to help Ukraine in this situation

Open source

NATO is monitoring situation in the Black Sea and increases its military presence in the region, as Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of the Alliance, said at the press conference in Brussels, Eurointegration reported.

NATO has increased its presence in Black Sea region. Last year we have increased the presence of NATO vessels in Black Sea from 80 to 120 says. We have a mission of air police in the region, and there is also a multinational brigade in Romania, Stoltenberg said.

He noted that the Alliance will support Ukraines territorial integrity and sovereignty and will provide political and practical aid.

We provide support in various forms: we help to modernize the armed forces, command system, counter the cyber threats. Some allies also provide assistance on a bilateral basis by equipment and training, Stoltenberg stated.

NATO Secretary General announced the Alliances intentions to increase the military presence in Black Sea region in June 2018. Earlier, President Poroshenko said that calling of several NATO ships would be one of the possible ways to help Ukraine in this situation.

Related video:Metropolitan Nikodym, Head of Zhytomyr eparchy of Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Moscow Patriarchate 112 Agency

Police in Zhytomyr region conduct searches in eight buildings of several eparchies of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate), Police in Zhytomyr region reports on December 3.

Some eight searches are being conducted within the framework of the investigation of criminal proceedings under Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, police press service reported.

Police added that the local office of Ukraine's Security Service also participated.

Searches are conducted within the framework of the investigation of criminal proceedings under Article 161 (violation of equality of citizens depending on their racial, nationality, religious beliefs, disability and other grounds) of Ukraine's Criminal Code in Zhytomyr, Korosten, Ovruch and Kyiv, the police said.

The searches are being conducted within the framework of an investigation involving Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra archpriest Pavlo.

As we reported earlier, Ukraines Security Service conducted searches at the place of residence of Pavlo, the archpriest of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra within the probe of stirring up religious hatred, which is a subject to Criminal Code of Ukraine on November 3.

The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Kyiv Patriarchate struggled for the autocephaly since the country gained independence in 1991. For his firm stance in this regard, Patriarch Filaret, the current leader of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Kyiv Patriarchate was stripped of his orders in 1992, as the Russian Orthodox Church imposed the anathema on him. Most recently, the Ecumenical Patriarchate lifted it from him. This decision, and the subsequent decision to grant Ukraine Tomos outraged the Russian Orthodox Church, which already promised 'a tough and decisive response.'

On Thursday, November 29, the Synodus of Ecumenical Patriarchate released a communique about the preliminary draft project of the statute of the future Ukrainian Church.Ukraines president Petro Poroshenko Open source

The protection of the state border with Russia and the administrative border with occupied Crimea will be strengthened during the martial law state. One of such measures will be conducted on November 3. This was announced by President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko during a speech at the forum 70 years of the UN Universal Declaration on Human Rights: an Agenda for Ukraine, broadcasted by 112 Ukraine TV channel.

All the opportunities martial law gives to the authorities will be used to strengthen the state border with Russia and the administrative border with Crimea. The combat coordination of the brigades in camps will be shortened. Today, I will be present as the President and the Commander-In-Chief at one of these events. There will be drills and redeployment of units to strengthen border defense, and training of the immediate reserve forces will be held in regions under martial law, he said.

At the same time, Poroshenko added that the protection of critical infrastructure, primarily nuclear and hydroelectric power stations, will also be enhanced; all necessary measures on strengthening the air defense were taken.

The president once again reminded that the martial law is a preventive measure for a period of 30 days, and it was introduced to prevent aggression and minimize its consequences "for the sake of protection of the most important right  the human right to life".

Poroshenko expressed hope that Ukraine will be able to cope using the listed measures and will not prolong the martial law.

As we reported earlier, the coast guard ships of the Russian Navy acted aggressively against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, which have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov.

Given the tough situation in the area of Kerch Strait in the Sea of Azov, President Petro Poroshenko supported the offer of Ukraine's national security and defense council; it stipulates that the Ukrainian Parliament should consider the option to impose the martial law in Ukraine.Ukrainian sailors cannot be exchanged for criminals, according to Geneva Convention on Prisoners of War

Open source

The status of Ukrainian sailors as prisoners of war, according to the Geneva Convention, does not allow exchanging them for criminals, according to Ukraines Ombudsman Lyudmyla Denisova. It was reported by Interfax-Ukraine agency.

"The Geneva Convention on Prisoners of War, to which Ukraine is a signatory, has been in effect since 1955. It clearly defines: prisoners of war cannot be exchanged for criminals," she said.

The Ombudsman said the status of sailors as prisoners of war does not allow it for their case to be considered in a regular court. They cannot be placed in pretrial detention facilities, including the Lefortovo prison, where they are currently kept.

"This is a special status, and a special model of their release," Denisova said.

As we reported earlier the coast guard ships of the Russian Navy acted aggressively against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, which have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov.

Today, November 25, the ships of the Ukrainian Navy with two armored gunboats and a sea mule tugboat have been carrying out a scheduled transition from Odesa port to Mariupol port in the Sea of Azov. The intention to make the transition was informed in advance in accordance with international standards in order to ensure the safety of navigation. However, contrary to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Treaty between Ukraine and the Russian Federation on cooperation in the use of the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait, the Russian coast guard ships - Sobol class patrol boat, Don border guard cruiser, Mangust class patrol boat and Suzdalets anti-submarine warfare ship performed blatantly aggressive acts against the ships of the Ukrainian Navy, reads the message.

On November 25, Russian border guards captured the Yanu Kapu tugboat and small armored artillery boats of Ukraine's Naval Forces. The prisoners of war were transported to Moscow on November 29.

Ukraines Security Service intercepted the radio communications one of the Russian Security Service officers and the captain of Don, which rammed the Ukrainian tugboat Yanu Kapu.A meditation and sharing support group focused on the practice of Buddhist teachings and the 12 steps of recovery while integrating the Dharma and the basic goodness of meditation.

The Heart of Recovery is a meditation and sharing support group with the purpose of bringing together the practice of meditation, the Shambhala and Buddhist teachings, and the Twelve Steps of Recovery with the goal of integrating the basic sanity of the Dharma and the basic goodness of meditation with our commitment to abstinence. We welcome all those who wish to share in these common interests.

The Heart of Recovery is a meditation and sharing support group with the purpose of bringing together the practice of meditation, the Shambhala and Buddhist teachings, and the Twelve Steps of Recovery with the goal of integrating the basic sanity of the Dharma and the basic goodness of meditation with our commitment to abstinence. We welcome all those who wish to share in these common interests.PLEASE NOTE!

Due to the March 23, 2020 NM DOH Public Health Order, These Event Listings Are Not Accurate!

All non-essential businesses are closed, public gatherings are prohibited!

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According to Uruguay-based newspaper El Pais , Vazquez gave a press conference this morning to comment on the request. He was joined by Foreign Affairs Minister Rodolfo Nin Novoa.YEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un might visit South Korea until yearend, a South Korean government official told reporters in Seoul on December 3.

The ministry believes that the visit might take place until yearend, and it is continuing work in order for inter-Korean agreements to be fulfilled without any issues, an official from the Ministry of Unification said.

Earlier local media reported that the visit will likely take place December 13-14.

Edited and translated by Stepan KocharyanYEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. One of the Taliban's most senior commanders has been killed in a US airstrike in Afghanistan, BBC reports.

The killed commander, Mullah Abdul Manan Akhund, was the Talibans governor and military leader for the countrys province of Helmand.

Local authorities said that he was killed Saturday night in the Nawzad district of Helmand.

The Taliban said his death was a "major loss" but it would not deter them in their efforts to take back control of Afghanistan.

But the Afghanistan interior ministry said that Mullah Abdul Manan Akhunds death is a major blow and will lower the moral of Taliban fighters in southern Afghanistan.

Edited and translated by Stepan KocharyanYEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The Office of the Human Rights Defender of Armenia issued a statement on the International Day of Disabled Persons on December 3.

Armenpress presents the full statement:

December 3 is celebrated as the International Day of Disabled Persons. The day declared by the UN is one more occasion to state that disabled persons are sometimes not viewed as bearers of right, full members of the society due to the existing stereotypes in our country. The problem is that due to the medical model of disabled which was applied for years the disabled people were not viewed as full subjects of a right, and no importance was attached to the right to live independently. Therefore, the shift from the medical model to the social one, also it is called a human rights model, is very important thanks to which all stereotypes will be broken.

The issue of protection of rights of disabled persons is always under the spotlight of the Human Rights Defender.

In his annual reports, as well as during public discussions with the public authorities, representatives of NGOs and international structures, the Ombudsman always raises the issues existing in the protection of rights of disabled people.

Today there are still state structures, educational facilities, cultural objects which do not provide appropriate conditions for the disabled persons. The state must create equal opportunities and conditions so that these persons will exercise their rights independently as a full subject of right.

It is necessary to guarantee the active engagement of disabled persons in political, cultural and economic life.

The availability of information is also very important for disabled people as it contributes to the independent decision-making, being aware of rights and opportunities and full integration to the society.

The issues of disabled children also require special attention. As of now the free services for early detection and rehabilitation of the disability, inclusive education are not available yet or are partially available for the children.

Joint and dedicated work is necessary for finding solutions to the issues existing in the field of exercising the rights of the disabled persons.

Edited and translated by Aneta HarutyunyanYEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Caretaker Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has commented on the Prosecutor Generals motion submitted to parliament that is requesting to strip lawmaker Aram Harutyunyan of immunity for criminal proceedings.

Speaking at a campaigning rally for My Step bloc in the town of Ararat in the eponymous province ahead of the general election, Pashinyan mentioned about the developments over Harutyunyan. Aram Harutyunyan is a former minister of nature protection, and he is suspected in taking a 14 million dollar bribe. This is yet another manifestation and proof that we will be coherent in the anti-corruption combat, Pashinyan said.

He said he wants to present on the example of this case as to why the combat against corruption takes long time in many cases. I know that there are questions, and it is very important that we all imagine the details of the process. Regarding this case, If my memory serves me right, the citizen had filed a report approximately four months ago, maybe even five. And since these actions, according to preliminary information, were committed through foreign banks, the investigation couldnt resume as long as an official response to the inquiry of our investigative bodies wasnt received from a foreign state, which was sent through the foreign ministry. When I was delivering a speech in parliament as a candidate for prime minister, I said that the procedures of our foreign partners are such that this couldnt have happened quicker, based on objective and subjective reasons. This response, that our investigative bodies were waiting for, lasted for approximately four months. And when this response was to arrive, the actions that our investigative bodies were to take would last from a week to ten days. But our investigative bodies had to wait four months only for this inquiry. Moreover, the investigative bodies had already non-officially gathered all information required for launching a criminal case. They knew in advance what response will be received, but as long as this response isnt official, no such information can be put at the basis for pressing charges, Pashinyan said.

He stressed that many instances have taken place when a criminal case is launched and then the court has freed the suspect on bail etc. And rumors began, or certain people attempted on social media to make the impression alleging that the authorities are making a show, theyve caught someone, then agreed something and released them. I want to directly say this by looking you in the eyes, that no unprincipled compromise will take place in the anti-corruption combat. It is ruled out for us to make some kind of a deal behind the back of the people on any issue, moreover on issues that had principled significance in carrying out the non-violent, velvet, peoples revolution in Armenia. I want us to note this  there wont be any deal behind the back of the people. The looted money must be returned penny by penny, Pashinyan said.

Prosecutor General of Armenia Arthur Davtyan has submitted a motion to parliament requesting to strip MP Aram Harutyunyan of immunity and enable the prosecution to launch criminal prosecution and arrest him.

In a statement, the prosecutors office said that an investigation has gathered sufficient evidence to incriminate Aram Harutyunyan of bribery. The prosecutors office said that back in 2008, when the lawmaker was serving as minister of nature protection, and also as chairman of a commission granting mining-related permits , Harutyunyan demanded a person, whose identity hasnt been disclosed, to pay him 14,000,000 USD in a bribe in order to get a license for exploration and exploitation of 10 non-ferrous metal ore locations in four different provinces of Armenia. According to the prosecution, Harutyunyan received the bribe.

6,000,000 dollars was given to the then-minister in cash from 2008 January to November, while the remainder was transferred to his bank account, the prosecution said. All transcations were made through mediation.

Harutyunyan later laundered the money through fraudulent bank accounts, the prosecution said.

Two people have been charged for assisting bribery. Two others are wanted for the same charges and an arrest warrant has been issued.

At the same time, the prosecution said that the investigation has revealed that Aram Harutyunyan is the shadowy owner of major real estate in Yerevan, including homes, apartments, a 7-storey building, a restaurant complex, a public-significance building worth 427 million drams. He also owns more than 10 farming land areas in the province of Kotayk, the prosecution said.

The prosecution said it has sufficient evidence and grounds to believe that the lawmaker might attempt to obstruct the investigation and that there is a risk that he may try to hide from justice.

Prosecutor General Arthur Davtyan filed a motion to Speaker of Parliament Ara Babloyan to strip Harutyunyan of immunity.

Edited and translated by Stepan KocharyanYEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The hearing of the complaint against former President of Armenia Robert Kocharyan from pre-trial detention is underway at the Court of Appeals. The complaint is contesting that Kocharyan was released based on immunity.

The presiding judge is Ruben Mkhitaryan.

Kocharyans attorney Hayk Alumyan told reporters outside the courtroom that both the defense and prosecution are expected to make their speeches today.

He said he will also address new circumstances during his speech today.

Alumyan didnt rule out the possibility that today the examination of the complaint will be completed.

Edited and translated by Stepan KocharyanYEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian received Konstantin Zatulin - First Deputy Chairman of the Russian State Duma Committee for CIS Affairs, Eurasian Integration and Relations with Compatriots, Director of the Institute of CIS Countries and a group of members of the newly-established Lazaryan Club who attended the first session of the Club in Yerevan, the Presidential Office told Armenpress.

During the meeting President Sarkissian said the Club can become a productive platform for different discussions. He said the Armenian-Russian relations are developing steadily, but they need update and expansion in accordance with the time by including new directions and programs, as well as the young generation. The President highlighted the great potential existing in education, culture and science sectors and the importance of maximally using it.

Edited and translated by Aneta HarutyunyanYEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. The inauguration of Georgias President-elect Salome Zurabishvili might not take place in Tbilisi, IPN reported.

According to the report, several cities are under consideration for the event.

Zurabishvili will be sworn in on December 16. Meanwhile, Grigol Vashadze, the candidate for president from the opposition union Unity Makes Strength who lost the election, demanded the government to create a task force for fulfilling their demands in a protest rally on December 2 in Rustaveli Avenue of Tbilisi. One of the main demands of the opposition is calling early election of parliament through the proportional representation method.

The opposition also doesnt acknowledge the results of the presidential election.

Edited and translated by Stepan KocharyanYEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. In 2018, Russia has harvested 110 million tons of grain, agriculture minister Dmitry Patrushev told President Vladimir Putin during a meeting, according to RIA Novosti.

According to him, the indicator is 11% more than the average annual harvest of the past five years.

Patrushev said that agricultural exports of Russia might reach 26 billion dollars this year.

Edited and translated by Stepan KocharyanYEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. A motion honouring the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide (UN Genocide Convention) will be debated by Australia's House of Representatives on Monday, 3rd December 2018, ARMENPRESS reports, citing the official website of the Armenian National Committee of Australia (ANC-AU) .

The private member's motion, which will be moved by Member for Goldstein Tim Wilson  who is of Armenian ancestry  calls on the House of Representatives to acknowledge "the need for eternal vigilance of all countries, including Australia, to act to acknowledge past genocides as essential to stopping future genocides".



The motion honours the author of the UN Genocide Convention, Dr. Raphael Lemkin, noting that the Armenian Genocide and Jewish Holocaust were motivating factors for his coining of a legal term for race-based mass killings. The motion states: "[The House] honours the primary initiator and author of the United Nations Genocide Convention, Dr Raphael Lemkin, a lawyer of Polish-Jewish descent, who coined the word 'genocide', informed by his study of the systematic extermination of the Armenians during World War I and the Jews during World War II."



The motion also acknowledges Australia's significant role in the UN's adoption of the motion 70 years ago, on 9th December, 1948. As is typical with private members' motions, this bill will be debated by a selection of government and non-government Members of Parliament without going to a vote.



The majority's view of the debate will reflect the will of Australia's House of Representatives, explained ANC-AU Executive Director, Haig Kayserian.



"Australia was instrumental in the adoption of the UN Genocide Convention and ratified it in 1949, yet it still needs to get on the right side of history by recognising the Armenian Genocide and continue what is a proud tradition of standing up for such important human rights issues," said Kayserian.



"A positive outcome in the debate of this motion will ensure the House of Representatives recognises that there is no more room for word games. This motion clearly articulates that the word Genocide and what happened to the Armenians are undeniably linked since the creation of the word itself."



Not to mention the controversial boulevard consisting of a six-lane road, outside the National Parliament.

One can see this clean-up in Port Moresby via newly sealed roads, the K145 million upgrade of Jacksons International Airport, and the extravagant APEC Haus and Convention Centre.

In preparation for the summit, the PNG government stretched its expenditure to clean up the nations capital of Port Moresby  a move to improve international perceptions that will eventually translate into investment opportunities.

Papua New Guineas trajectory to this monumental event has been one involving great strides from the moment it secured the bid to host APEC in 2013.

AUCKLAND - It has only been two weeks since the conclusion of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, yet much has transpired  to the dismay of host country Papua New Guinea.

Prior to the 21 member states two-day meeting, Prime Minister Peter ONeill described the event as one that would place PNG on the world map by boosting tourism and lucrative resource project agreements.

These advantages could lead to more employment, especially in an economy where only 15 percent of the population are employed in the formal sector.

Additionally, there is an opportunity to tackle skills shortages within PNG.

Yet for all the economic advantages that await PNG, a myriad of issues continue to beset the country and this has been magnified through APEC.

The cost of rehabilitating PNGs waning image has ultimately placed the peoples needs on the backburner, even after Australias donation of $100 million and China giving $35 million.

Currently, polio has re-emerged with three new cases having been reported just last week, now bringing the total to 25 and one death so far.

Apart from polio, tuberculosis continues to be a formidable challenge for PNGs health system.

This is the bitter reality for most Papua New Guineans who lack access to basic health services.

While Port Moresby has new roads, much of the rural areas in PNG remain disconnected with services nowhere to be found.

Granted, if there are aid posts and clinics, it is likely that medicine is unavailable, as exemplified by prominent journalist Scott Waide.

Apart from exacerbating health issues, PNGs media freedom faces barriers which have been amplified throughout the APEC summit coverage.

Case in point: PNG journalists were not allowed to cover Chinese President Xi Jinpings dinner with colleagues from eight Pacific nations.

The suspension-turned-reinstatement of Scott Waide amid his airing of a report on the governments spending, particularly about the controversial 40 Maseratis.

His reinstatement, however, is a compelling testament to many Papua New Guineans frustration with the state of governance, particularly at the grassroots level.

A Maserati luxury sedan as portrayed in the controversial news item shown in EMTV. Image: EMTV screenshot

While Port Moresby came to a standstill for the 2018 APEC Summit, villages throughout PNG were occupied with their own routines.

Life is not as simple as it used to be and this rings true for villages like Efogi.

Nestled on the slopes of the Owen Stanley Ranges, Efogi receives trekking tourists embarking on the Kokoda Trail.

In all its years of participating in the Kokoda experience, Efogi seems untouched from the hustle and bustle in Port Moresby.

Papua New Guinean writer Rashmii Bell, who also has a background in psychology and criminology, recently trekked along the Kokoda where she was able to observe the state of development in rural areas such as Efogi.

Whats being developed in Moresby is not translating to the rural population  there is a huge difference. We want to wait and see what happens after [APEC], but we have valid reason to pre-empt based on the development that has happened in the past 18 months where Moresby has transformed whereas the rest of PNG has not.

Although acting as a campsite for trekkers, Efogi had no access to electricity despite being home to the main airstrip for the Kokoda Track.

The only semblance of electricity is a newly donated generator that is rarely used due to the difficulty in purchasing and transporting fuel.

Aside from that, the health centre still relies on the donation of medical supplies.

With the summits closure, Rashmiis interaction with communities like Efogi point out the problematic nature of the PNG governments sound bites on a stronger economy.

This is where little attention has concentrated on empowering the majority of Papua New Guineans in informal sectors like trek tourism.

For example, most men from villages like Efogi and others along the trail turn to trekking carriers as a form of employment but are often exploited in terms of their safety and wellbeing.

Your life is in your carriers hand  that is how the tourism operation is running at the moment. Because we are putting that pressure on the carriers, you can see by their demeanour that they are very stoic.

For them, it is a huge ask to be putting your life in someones hands. And as much as they say that is our job, at the end of the day we want to have a tourism industry where we are promoting ethical tourism, said Rashmii.

As for women, they are excluded from gaining the financial rewards that this informal economy has to offer, which reiterates the resounding gender inequity in communities around PNG.

While PNGs participation in APEC hopes to garner digital breakthroughs, it is debatable as to how rural communities can be included when technological infrastructure is absent, literacy is low and policies that protect and empower the people are void.

For communities like Efogi, life remains the same without any inkling of APEC.

Although the carriers who trekked with Rashmii did not utter one word on APEC, the same cannot be said for those in Port Moresby.

When the 21 APEC member countries completed their intergovernmental talks, people like Cathy Smith felt anxious about what would transpire.

She described the lead up to the event as one of confusion.

The 28-year-old said she could not see any positive changes taking place anytime soon.

Life is already hard as it is, even with her cleaning job of five years where she earns only K3.50 an hour  a rate that barely supports a normal standard of living in PNG.

For my community, we will just listen and follow what they say Im seeing all the changes in the city but my own village has no services.

Although the opportunities for development remain to be seen, Papua New Guineans like Cathy will go through the usual struggle to make a living in an economy that is already waning.

High living conditions, health budget cuts and the re-emergence of diseases such as polio and leprosy are just some of the many challenges being faced.

Hopefully, the PNG government will tackle these and other prevalent issues, particularly with the aim of development for its people.

Perhaps a good reference point to take from the APEC summit is human resource development, as stated by Rashmii Bell.

For development to take place, you need that interaction. My understanding is that APEC is technology-driven and I did not even have reception along the Kokoda trail until we climbed up to the highest point Technology will hopefully improve the economy but only for those who have access to it.

Pauline Mago-King is a masters student based at Auckland University of Technology and is researching gender-based violence in PNGThe public has a right to know certain information such as the purchase price paid for each item, details of the supplier, invoices, proof of payment and the documents authorising procurement.

When the public tender goes ahead, it should be on the basis of a list and other vital details confirmed by an audit by the auditor-general.

The problem is not confined to the sale of assets. It encompasses almost all aspects of the APEC Authority and government involvement in it. Indeed, the decision to hold a public auction of assets is only a small first step of many that need to be taken to lift the clouds of suspicion.

PORT MORESBY - I welcome finance secretary Ken Ngangans announcement of a public tender for APEC Authority assets, which is a step in the right direction after years of ONeill government deception and deceit about APEC, but is not enough.

This is especially important in relation to the purchase of the Bentleys and Maseratis. Full disclosure is required by prime minister Peter ONeill, APEC minister Justin Tkatchenko and APEC Authority CEO Christopher Hawkins.

They must provide evidence of official authorisation of these purchases, by whom and whether a public tender was called as required by the APEC Authority Act.

Documentation for the sale of these cars should include evidence of the overseas remittances made for the purchases, as well as details of any commissions paid. Mr ONeill must table the NEC submissions and decisions on all APEC-related purchases.

The Bentleys were bought from a Kuala Lumpur company associated with Borneo Pacific and the prime ministers brewery venture, and the Maseratis were bought from a Sri Lankan company said to be associated with a government official.

Mr Tkatchenko publicly boasted that they were being sold to cover the APEC Authoritys costs, and that they are selling like hot cakes. Has money been paid to the APEC Authority to buy any of the Maseratis? Who by? Has the Malaysian associate paid for one of the Bentleys?

If full disclosure is not made, potential buyers cannot be sure of the legitimacy of their proposed purchases. Lack of clear title could put any purchases at risk of legal challenge. Without full disclosure the people cannot be sure they are getting full value for money from the sale of their assets.

There has been too much hanky-panky going on. Complete honesty and openness are required if the public auction is not going to descend into more corruption, waste and mismanagement.

I commend the ombudsman commission for issuing a constitutional direction relating to APEC assets in which it said they could not be disposed of without its approval.

The direction, including to Mr O'Neill, Mr Hawkins, chief secretary Isaac Lupari and Mr Ngangan, was issued to protect and preserve the integrity of leaders who were involved in the event.

The ombudsman commission said the direction was to ensure that before any assets are dealt with, all relevant laws, policies and guidelines for dealing with them are complied with, including requirements under the Public Finance (Management) Act.

This is a timely and appropriate intervention by the ombudsman commission, given what we know about government activities in relation to APEC, and the way in which the APEC Authority has itself carried out its duties.

There are other issues that the ombudsman commission and other authorities should be concerned about, which need to be settled prior to any asset disposal:

According to the Public Finances (Management) Act, Section 47K, the APEC Authority must be audited by the auditor-general, but there is no record of any audit. The report of the auditor-general on the APEC Authority must be tabled in parliament. This has not happened. Mr ONeill has promised to table the APEC budget and expenditure report in parliament but has never done so. Even if he does table it, the document will be meaningless if there has been no audit.

These irregularities, which are in addition to possible breaches of the constitution and other laws, show the prime minister, Mr Hawkins and Mr Tkatchenko have a lot of explaining to do.

The disposal of assets should not go ahead without the prime minister, Mr Tkatchenko, Mr Hawkins and APEC-related agencies covered by the ombudsman commission direction complying with the laws of the land.KEITH JACKSON

NOOSA - Two months from now, Ill have been publishing this blog for 13 years. According to the statistics, thats about one-fifth of my life expectancy.

During that 20% of my life, Ive wanted no reward from PNG Attitude except to keep it serving its main purpose, which is to maintain the links between Papua New Guineans and Australians. Thats a good reason and enough reward.

And when this blog is no longer required, when its replaced by something better, or when I tire, Ill draw the curtains and slip away.

But for now there are thousands of people who value this small space on the internet. I value them and they constantly motivate me to continue this project.

One thing PNG Attitude does from time to time is to ask readers to assist with small but important activities in PNG. We began doing this even before the term crowd-funding entered the dictionary and when our readership was tiny. We saw it as a means by which readers could give some money and contribute to the relationship this blog seeks to maintain.Australian home prices fell by the most since the GFC in November.

Median prices fell by 1.4% in Sydney and 1% in Melbourne. Apart from Perth where prices slipped by a smaller 0.7%, values increased in all other capital city markets.

CoreLogic says there are several factors that have contributed to the divergence in price movements across the country this year, including the impact of tighter lending standards.

The group expects recent trends will continue "for the foreseeable future".

Australia's housing downturn gathered pace in November, driven by an acceleration in price declines being reported in Sydney and Melbourne.

CoreLogic's Home Value Index fell by 0.7% in average weighted terms, leaving the national decline over the past year at 4.1%.

The percentage fall last month was the largest since December 2008.

The pace of price declines were even larger in the capital cities with median values falling 0.9% from October in weighted terms, extending the drop over the past 12 months to 5.3%.

The median price for capital city homes fell by 1% over the month, faster than the 0.7% decline in apartment values over the same period. In the past year, capital city home prices have now fallen 5.9% in average weighted terms, significantly faster than the 3.7% drop in unit values.

In contrast, home prices in regional areas fell by a smaller 0.1% last month, trimming the gain over the past year to 0.3%.

"Nationally, dwelling values are down 4.2% since peaking in October last year, with dwelling values retracing back to levels last seen in December 2016," said Tim Lawless, Head of Research at CoreLogic.

Helping to explain the acceleration in national price decline last month, median values in Sydney and Melbourne fell by 1.4% and 1% respectively from October, a noticeable increase from the levels seen earlier in the year.

The decline in Sydney was the fastest since May 2004, leaving the nominal fall in prices over the past year at 8.1%, the steepest since May 1983.

Story continues

"The downwards pressure on national dwelling values is largely confined to Sydney and Melbourne which, together, comprise approximately 55% of the value of Australias housing asset class, Lawless said.

"Since peaking in July last year, Sydneys housing market is down 9.5% which is on track to eclipse the previous record peak-to-trough decline set during the last recession when values fell 9.6% between 1989 and 1991.

"Melbourne dwelling values peaked four months later than Sydney, in November 2017, and have since fallen by 5.8% through to the end of November 2018."

Rather than being driven by one specific factor, Lawless says there are several reasons contributing to the recent acceleration in price declines being seen in Sydney and Melbourne.

"The tightening in finance conditions has been more pronounced across the investor segment of the market, where Sydney and Melbourne have recorded much higher concentrations of investment demand," he said.

Additionally, housing affordability constraints are more pronounced in these markets and rental yields are substantially lower, indicating an imbalance between rental values and dwelling values.

"The ramp up in housing supply has been more pronounced in these markets against a backdrop of slowing demand, and Sydney and Melbourne have also been more affected by the reduction in foreign buying activity.

And with demand softer and new supply continuing to increase, Lawless says total property listings now sit at elevated levels compared to levels seen in the past.

"Advertised listings have surged higher, providing buyers with ample choice which provides for a strong negotiation position on price" he said.

The rebalancing towards buyers over sellers in Sydney and Melbourne is clear across CoreLogics vendor metrics, with clearance rates tracking in the low 40% range while private treaty sales are showing substantially longer selling times and larger rates of discounting than they have over recent years.

With so many homes currently up for sale in these cities, the recent pickup in price declines suggests some vendors are choosing to lower their price expectations in order to secure a sale before a seasonal slowdown in market activity over summer months.

However, while median prices also fell in Perth last month, declining 0.7%, Lawless says the weakness in Australia's largest and most expensive cities masked far more resilient performances from Australia's smaller capital city markets in November.

"Conditions across the Australian housing market are increasingly diverse," he said.

"Dwelling values are trending higher across five of the eight capital cities, albeit at a relatively slow pace compared with the previous surge in Sydney and Melbourne."

So while the national price measure is continuing to weaken, that is largely reflective of price falls in Sydney and Melbourne, rather than declines across the broader country.

Lawless says these trends are likely to be repeated in the short-to-medium term.

"We expect headwinds for tighter credit will continue for the foreseeable future and will continue to temper housing market activity," he said.

"This will be especially the case for those markets where investment demand is most concentrated, and where housing costs are high relative to incomes, such as Sydney and Melbourne."

However, in the absence of an unexpected sharp slowdown in the economy, leading to the potential for weaker employment growth, higher unemployment and potential softening in migration levels, or a spike in mortgage rates, Lawless says the current economic backdrop should act to support home prices in the period ahead.

"Despite the recent out-of-cycle 15 basis point rise in mortgage rates, the cost of debt remains at the lowest level since the 1960s," he said.

"From an economic perspective, GDP is tracking above expectations, unemployment is at the lowest level since 2012, population growth is strong and wage growth is slowly lifting from a low base.

"The factors should help to support housing demand and offset a more material decline in dwelling values."

For those looking for more granular details on price movements over the past month, quarter and year, this table from CoreLogic has plenty of information for those across the country.Image: Getty

Strap yourself in, Sydney and Melbourne. According to experts and economists, youre in for a bumpy ride.

House prices in Australias two largest cities are set to plummet 15-20 per cent from their peak, according to an ANZ Bank November forecast.

Its a bold prediction, but theyre not alone. The majority (71 per cent) of Finder.com.aus suite of experts and economists agree with the assessment.

I have not been expecting a rate hike next year and have been forecasting a 20 per cent decline in Sydney and Melbourne property prices top to bottom, AMP Capital chief economist, Shane Oliver said.

Olivers dire prediction is indicative of economists increasingly dramatic assessments, Finders insights manager, Graham Cooke observed.

ANZs suggested 15 per cent drop would see $145,500 and $118,500 wiped off the average house price in Sydney and Melbourne respectively, he added.

A 20 per cent drop would see nearly $200,000 disappear from the equity of Sydney homeowners, Cooke said.

Whats a 15-20 per cent fall in real terms?

Source: Finder analysis of RBA and CoreLogic data

Its particularly concerning for recent home buyers, Cooke said.

If we do see these types of price drops in the market, recent home buyers who laid down a 20 per cent deposit could see themselves in negative equity by the end of the year.

Since its peak in July last year, Sydneys housing market has slumped 9.5 per cent  in line with a similar decline seen during the 1989-91 recession, the latest CoreLogic figures reveal.

Melbournes market peaked in November last year and has since fallen 5.8 per cent.

Make your money work with Yahoo Finances daily newsletter. Sign up here and stay on top of the latest money, news and tech news.

Now read: The economies of these major Aussie cities are pulling ahead

Now read: Australias most unaffordable city for renters named

Now read: Sydneys house price falls accelerate in November, expert tips 15% fall in totalCGU Insurance has been backing ambitious Aussies for over 165 years. Visit CGU.com.au to find out how we can back you.



Running a small business is tough. Although there are currently more than two million small businesses in Australia, the survival rate for first three years is still below 40%.

But this stat is nothing compared to the number of Australians harbouring the ambition to start their own business, or "side hustle", but are too scared to take the leap.

According to the CGU Ambition Index, more than half of all Australians (53%) have considered starting their own business but are yet to act on their ambition.

The inaugural CGU Ambition Index spoke to 2,000 Australians  including 1,000 small business owners  to find out why a lucky country like Australia isnt more comfortable chasing its dreams.

Its easy to think that the fear of failing  like two thirds of businesses before them have experienced  is the greatest deterrent. But the Ambition Index uncovered a factor with a greater impact than the fear of failure: tall poppy syndrome, or the fear of voicing our ambitions and being labelled a bragger.

While 44% of respondents said a fear of failure stopped them from chasing their dreams, a staggering 70% were afraid to even talk about them, believing Australia has a culture of negativity towards ambition, according to the report.

The cost of fear

This fear of either failing to reach your business goals or being judged negatively for your success is having a huge impact on the potential growth of Australias small business sector.

So while 53% of Australians are considering starting their own business, only 6% have gone ahead and done it.

Yet if just 10% more took the leap and started a business in the next two years, it would result in the creation of 250,000 more Australian businesses, which could contribute more than $1.7 billion to Australian GDP in the next 12 months alone.

Its not just the GDP contribution thats an important upside of changing the culture of negativity around ambition  we need the boost to innovation too.

Story continues

Australia recently ranked 19th in the Global Innovation Index and was labelled a "stall out" nation  a country that previously achieved a high level of innovative evolution but has lost momentum and risks falling behind.

The view from the other side

The outlook isnt all bad though. The Ambition Index found that the view of business owners is significantly more positive than non-business owners, implying that a lot of the fear of failure or judgement is in their heads, and may not materialise once they take a chance.

Only 5% of business owners said tall poppy syndrome had been a barrier for them, and less then one in four were too worried about failing to chase their dreams  compared to almost half of all people surveyed.

All of us have a role to play in better supporting those who have the courage to be ambitious and to chase their dreams, the CGU Ambition Index report says.

This includes being more comfortable talking about ambition, as well as failure, and calling out tall poppy syndrome when we see it.

The report also found that people believe established businesses have a greater role to play, with 90% thinking large Australian businesses should be more ambitious.

But leading by example is one thing. Throwing your support behind ambitious Australians is another.

Jessie Porteus, founder of The Learned Crew, has been lucky enough to enjoy the continued support of her employer while she started her own business.

The Learned Crew is a legal training and law student incubator business, which aims to bridge the gap between what students learn at law school, and the practical (and human) skills they require in their legal career.

Porteus spent years thinking about how to address this gap in the industry, before deciding to take the risk and launch her business.

I looked at the legal industry, which is currently undergoing a spectacular transformation, and saw this unfilled gap coupled with a willingness to change... [but] I also didn't want to live with regret, she told Business Insider.

Porteus agrees that the grass is greener on her side; and that while she did have concerns before leaving her traditional legal career and starting her business, the risk has been worth it.

For other Australians considering acting on their ambitions, Porteus advises them to do their due diligence on the risks but not let fear stop them from following their passion.

Understand your customer first to see whether your business has legs ask questions, run lean experimentation, and use design thinking to assess your customer's pain points. Spend most of your time thinking about the problem your business is out there to solve. As Einstein said, 'If I had an hour to solve a problem I'd spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and 5 minutes thinking about solutions.'

The star-studded guest list from Karl Stefanovics wedding to Jasmine Yarbrough was leaked weeks ago.

But as the wedding party begin to touch down in the US en-route to Mexico, there was a surprising family member among them.

The Today Shows oldest son Jackson was spotted strolling through LAs airport with his dad and his soon-to-be stepmum yesterday.

Karl Stefanovics eldest son Jackson has been spotted in LA with his dad and soon-to-be wife Jasmine Yarbrough, putting to bed rumours he was missing their December 8 wedding. Source: Instagram/KarlStefanovic

His shock appearance comes after multiple reports the 19-year-old would be missing the wedding over claims of growing tension surrounding Karls divorce from mum Cassandra Thorburn after 21 years of marriage.

However the sighting of the teen heading to the luxury resort where theyre set to tie the knot on December 8 appears to put those rumours to bed for good.

Jackson joined his younger siblings, Ava and River, along with other members of the family as they begun the 13,000km journey to the exotic destination.

As the party strolled through the airport they were all smiles, dispelling additional claims he was skipping the wedding in favour of continuing a backpacking adventure through Europe.

The Today Show host is getting married to Jasmine in Mexico over the weekend and have a star-studded guest list. Source: Getty

Karl split from his wife-of-21-years, Cassandra Thorburn, in late 2016 and it was claimed he was unhappy about his dad moving on so quickly.

The rumours went up a notch when Jackson reportedly missed Karls commitment ceremony to Jasmine in March  then later changed his Instagram name from Jackson Stefanovic to Jackson Thorburn.

However the family looked unified as they collected luggage in LA, presumably to enjoy a stopover before heading onto Mexico.

This is the luxury One&Only Resort in Los Cabos where the wedding will host 60 guests. Source: One&Only

Karl and his shoe designer fiancee are marrying this Saturday at the glamorous One&Only Palmilla Resort, a spot loved by many A-listers.

The pair have invited just 60 guests to the lavish nuptials, including billionaire James Packer and PR maven Roxy Jacenko.

Got a story tip? Send it to tips@oath.com

Want more lifestyle and celebrity news? Follow Yahoo Lifestyle on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.



Or sign up to our daily newsletter here.South Africa's police minister defended officers on Monday after revellers at a weekend concert dedicated to Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg headlined by Beyonce endured chaos and robberies following the event. Concert-goers had to wait several hours for transport to leave the nearly 95,000-capacity FNB stadium in Soweto Sunday and there were reports of several muggings and assaults. Beyonce led an all-star line-up including Ed Sheeran, Jay-Z and Usher for the climax of a year of events celebrating the centennial of Mandela's birth in 1918, and to raise money for charity. "There is no need to blame South African police that there was no Uber, there was no transport and all that -- that should be asked from the organisers," said police minister Bheki Cele who called on victims of crime to come forward. One man has been arrested in connection with incidents following the event, added Cele who spoke to journalists at an event in the southern city of Port Elizabeth. Concert-goer and witness Catherine Constantinides, director of the Miss Earth SA programme, said "it was more than mugging and taking phones". "You prayed with your life not to be stabbed, punched or brutally attacked, all of which I witnessed," she wrote on her verified Twitter account. Fellow concert-goer Ano Shonhiwa, 23, told AFP "there was so much chaos when the concert ended and people wanted to leave". "I heard that several people were mugged while they were waiting for transport or to call a cab," he said. Global Citizen, which organised the event, said in a statement that "after such an inspiring evening, we are saddened to hear the challenges people had while leaving the venue". "We have been working to support people getting home safely," it said. Beyonce (C) led an all-star line-up including Ed Sheeran, Jay-Z and Usher for the climax of a year of events celebrating the centennial of Mandela's birthAn Australian was among hundreds of pro-Papuan independence activists arrested across Indonesia at the weekend, police and rights groups said Monday. Some 233 activists, including Australian Ronda Amy Harman, were detained late Saturday in Indonesia's second-largest city Surabaya, East Java police spokesman Frans Barung Mangera told AFP. The arrests were made at a student dormitory, said lawyer Veronica Koman, who represented some of the detainees. They were among more than 500 activists swept up in a nationwide police crackdown that coincided with rallies on December 1, a date many Papuans consider should be the anniversary of their independence from the Dutch. Papua declared itself an independent nation on that date in 1961, but neighbouring Indonesia took control of the region by force in 1963. It officially annexed Papua in 1969 with a UN-backed vote, widely seen as a sham. No one was formally charged in the Surabaya arrests including Harman, but the 35-year-old woman was reported to immigration officials, Mangera said. The mass arrests followed a rally in which counter protestors threw stones at around 300 Papuans, injuring 16 people, Amnesty International said. Jakarta keeps a tight grip on resource-rich Papua, which has been the scene of a low-level independence insurgency since the late Sixties. Some of the violence has been centred on protests against a huge gold and copper mine operated by US-based firm Freeport McMoRan -- a frequent flashpoint in the local struggle for independence and a bigger share of the region's rich resources. A spokesperson for Australia?s department of foreign affairs and trade said it was aware of reports that Harman had been detained in Indonesia and said it was ready to offer consular assistance. Lawyer Koman -- who was with the activists in Surabaya -- said the Australian was at the dormitory with her boyfriend, one of the Papuan students. She is now being kept at a hotel and it was likely she would be deported, Koman added. Rights groups have blasted authorities for the mass detentions, saying it was an assault on Papuans? right to freedom of expression and assembly. "These people did nothing but peacefully attend public events," Amnesty International Indonesia's executive director Usman Hamid said in a statement. "These arbitrary arrests add to the long list of acts of harassment, intimidation and arrests faced by Papuans." In August, authorities arrested Pole Jakub Skrzypski in Papua for alleged links to separatists and he could face life in prison if convicted. His trial date has not yet been set. Hundreds gathered in Surabaya in Indonesia to commemorate Papua's liberation from Dutch colonial ruleBeyonce led an all-star line-up including Ed Sheeran, Jay-Z and Usher in Johannesburg at a concert to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela on Sunday. The concert was the climax of a year of events celebrating the centennial of Mandela's birth in 1918, and part of a campaign to tackle poverty, child malnutrition and boost gender equality. This year's Global Citizen Festival was held at Johannesburg's 94,736-capacity FNB staium and saw Beyonce perform several of her hits as well as a duet with Sheeran. Thousands of music fans, many of whom had received free tickets to reward their activism and campaigning work, flocked to the stadium hours before the concert began. "I'm proud to be part of the global citizen movement because they are trying to make a positive impact on people's lives -- especially women's and children's issues," said Nokthula Khuzwayo, 23, from Soweto. "I loved Dbanj's performance and of course Queen B and Jay-Z, even though it was a brief one." As well as a constellation of global stars that also included Pharrell Williams and Coldplay's Chris Martin, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted fellow heads of state from Ghana, Rwanda and Sierra Leone. "We are here to act in one voice," said Ramaphosa. Beyonce's performance of her smash hit XO, during which she wore a flowing pink-red dress and paid tribute to Mandela, drew an outpouring of emotion from the crowd. - 'Take action' - South African stars Trevor Noah, who was the host, and Bonang Matheba also made appearances, as the largely local crowd braved heavy downpours to attend. Ahead of the concert co-host Oprah Winfrey hailed Mandela's "goodness and integrity", describing him as her "favourite mentor". Mandela was imprisoned for decades under South Africa's apartheid regime. After being released in 1990, he led the country's transformation into a multi-racial democracy and was elected its first president. He died on December 5, 2013, aged 95. Earlier on Sunday, Mandela's widow Graca Machel, draped in a bright yellow and blue dress, took to the stage to honour her late husband in front of the near-capacity crowd. And Mandela's grandson Ndaba Mandela told festival-goers: "Today it is a privilege and choice for us to take action on behalf of the hundreds of millions of people trapped in the cycle of poverty. "So I plead with you, don't think of this as just a music festival, this is a call to the hearts and minds of humanity all across the world." The Global Citizen initiative aims to help eradicate extreme poverty by 2030 and has staged events in other world cities including London, Brussels, and New York. According to the initiative's founder Hugh Evans, more than $2 billion have been pledged to good causes following the Johannesburg gig, beating the $1 billion goal. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted ahead of the event pledging $50 million to women's and girl's education projects. Event organisers earlier paid tribute to a rigger who died following a fall while helping to prepare the stage on Saturday. "The circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated," Global Citizen said in a statement. Beyonc Knowles and Jay Z, pictured with their daughter in 2017, were a part of an all-star line-up at a concert in Johannesburg to honour the life and legacy of Nelson MandelaCambodia said Monday that banned opposition members may be allowed back into political life and shuttered media outlets could reopen as the EU considers pulling a trade deal the country is loath to lose. Numerous activists, journalists and government critics were released from jail in the months after strongman Hun Sen's Cambodian People's Party won all parliamentary seats in July elections held without the main opposition party. But the concessions did not deter the European Union from threatening in October to suspend trade benefits in the wake of the vote -- a move that would cripple the country's billion-dollar garment industry, its largest formal employer. Though Hun Sen has balked at the idea that international pressure can force his hand, analysts say the Cambodian leader is in a tough spot with the EU and has to ease up on dissent to avoid losing the preferences. The Supreme Court dissolved the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) in a ruling a year ago as Hun Sen homed in on critics before the vote, accusing the party's leader of attempting to overthrow the government. More than 100 CNRP members were banned for five years from politics, and many fled the country or retreated from public affairs. But Cambodia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that parliament was reviewing legislation allowing "individuals who were banned from politics to resume their political activities". The decision was made in the spirit of national reconciliation and to broaden democratic space, it said. The statement did not mention the EU deal but said court cases involving unions could be expedited and news outlets like the feisty English-language Cambodia Daily could be allowed to return if it paid errant tax bills. It added that US-backed Radio Free Asia, which also shut during escalating pressure on the media, was welcome to reopen its office. Cambodia "cherishes promotion of freedom of press and freedom of expression", the ministry said. Media advocates contend audits were used to pressure outlets to cease operations last year and plug up independent reporting before the election. Reacting to all the proposed changes CNRP member Mu Sochua told AFP that she "welcomes the news with caution". Rights groups fear Cambodia is sliding towards authoritarianism with the help of China, which showers the government with loans and infrastructure while asking few questions about how Hun Sen runs the country. The leader has been in power for 33 years using a mix of wily political gambits and networks of alliances in the army and police. Monday's statement did not bring up Kem Sokha, the co-founder of the CNRP who was accused of treason during the crackdown and is now living under conditions that resemble house arrest. National Assembly spokesperson Leng Peng Long told reporters he was not sure whether all 118 banned opposition members, including Kem Sokha, would be granted the right to come back to politics. Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Sen, pictured here in August, has been in power for 33 years using a mix of wily political gambits and networks of alliances in the army and policeChina will roll back tariffs on US-made cars, US President Donald Trump said, unveiling another potential breakthrough in a trade war truce that cheered stock markets on Monday. Trump's surprise announcement late Sunday came a day after he and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to suspend any new tariffs and give negotiators 90 days to strike a deal. The ceasefire follows months of tensions and tit-for-tat custom duties on hundreds of billions of dollars worth of goods that raised fears of an escalation harmful to the global economy. Both sides gained from hitting the pause button, with Trump securing a Chinese pledge to import more US goods and Xi staving off the further pressure that higher tariffs would place on his country's slowing economy. Trump tweeted that China had agreed to "reduce and remove" tariffs of 40 percent on cars, though Beijing has yet to confirm the move. China's foreign ministry declined to confirm Trump's assertion on Monday, instead saying: "On December 1 President Xi and President Trump reached an important consensus on trade issues." "They agreed to hold off on the imposition of new tariffs and came up with a series of constructive arrangements on how to address the existing differences and problems," spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters. Trump's tweet did not explain which tariffs would be reduced or removed, or when China would act. William Zarit, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, said the car announcement, if confirmed, was "certainly movement in the right direction, and hopefully a sign of more things to come". Beijing had reduced auto import duties from 25 percent to 15 percent in July. But it later added a 25 percent tariff on US-made cars as trade tensions soared, bringing them to 40 percent. Many US automakers build their cars in China for the local market, but the tariff hikes have hit sales and profits for some companies including electric car-maker Tesla and US-made models from BMW and Ford. - IP theft - One expert said China would have to address US complaints about China's forced transfer of intellectual property rights -- a major issue at the core of a US "301" trade investigation -- for Washington to drop its tariffs. "Any action which increases market access or better ensures a level playing field will certainly be welcomed and could lead to continued discussions," Steven Okun, a Singapore-based senior advisor at strategic advisory firm McLarty Associates, told AFP. "Still, one must presume that as the existing and proposed tariffs are to spur China to address the US' IPR concerns, only action directly related to that would ultimately impact the 301 tariffs," he said. The White House said Saturday the two sides would "immediately" begin talks on "structural changes" affecting forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection and cyber theft. China reaffirmed that the agreement held "great significance". "It prevents the economic and trade frictions from expanding and opens new prospects for cooperation," Geng said. - 'No magic wand' - Asian and European stock markets jumped on Monday, with Hong Kong and Shanghai closing sharply higher and the yuan strengthening after months of trade-war turbulence. After being spooked by the conflict, investors returned to buying following the long-awaited meeting between the two presidents. But observers warned there were still major issues that needed to be resolved, including access for US companies and intellectual property protection. "In order to really make a difference, China needs to enact more sweeping comprehensive reforms in the short term," Zarit said. China's state-run media cautiously welcomed the Buenos Aires agreement. The nationalist Global Times tabloid called it a "momentous step forward" that brings "huge potential for fair trade". "It is hoped that the trade teams from both countries will reach as many practical agreements as possible and as quickly as possible to hasten China-US cooperation," the daily said. Under the agreement, Trump is shelving a plan to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10 percent to 25 percent from the start of next year -- but the hike will kick in if negotiators fail to reach a final deal within 90 days. The United States has imposed 25 percent tariffs on another $50 billion worth of Chinese imports and they remain in effect despite the truce. China has hit back with similar tariffs on $110 billion worth of goods made in the US. "No magic wand has been waved to make the differences between the United States and China vanish overnight," the state-run China Daily warned. "Given the complexity of interactions between the two economies, the rest of the world will still be holding its collective breath while it waits to see if the series of constructive plans that are in the works can put bilateral relations back on a cooperative rather than confrontational track," it said. Trump's surprise announcement came a day after he and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to suspend any new tariffs and give negotiators 90 days to strike a deal US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping met on sidelines of a G20 summit in Argentina at the weekend The ceasefire follows months of tensions and punitive custom duties on hundreds of billions of dollars worth of goods that raisedfears of an escalation harmful to the global economy Trump tweeted on Sunday that China had agreed to scale back tariffs on cars, but he did not explain which would be removed and which would be reducedChina's President Xi Jinping and his Panamanian counterpart Juan Carlos Varela signed a string of cooperation agreements Monday as Beijing aims to extend its political and economic influence in Latin America. Xi arrived in the Central American country late Sunday, fresh from striking a 90-day truce deal in the trade war with US President Donald Trump at the G20 summit in Argentina. Xi and Varela signed a score of infrastructure, tourism and development cooperation agreements as Panama became the first Latin American country to partner with Beijing's giant multi-billion dollar global investment initiative known as "Belt and Road." Xi's visit comes after Panama broke ties with Taiwan last year and switched its allegiance to Beijing. Since Panama's move, two other Central American countries -- the Dominican Republic and El Salvador -- have made the switch. "Our bilateral relations have had a strong start after only a year and a half," Xi said. Varela said Xi's visit -- and the investment it brought -- meant Panama would become "the gateway of China to Latin America." The two countries are also negotiating a free trade agreement. Xi also met with business leaders and visited the Panama Canal's new Cocoli Locks. China is the canal's second biggest user after the United States. In a column written for local newspaper Estrella de Panama, Xi said he had "high expectations" for the visit, the first ever by a Chinese leader to the country. "We must be cooperative partners of mutual benefit and shared profits," wrote Xi. - Logistics hub - Beijing hopes Panama can be a logistics hub for the expansion of trade in Latin America and the Caribbean -- an idea the local business community has fully embraced. "Panama usually generates a lot of interest because of its strategic location in the region and because of the canal," Severo Sousa, president of the National Business Council (Conep), told AFP. These factors -- along with Panama's political stability, growing economy and deep financial network -- are "very attractive" to China, Sousa added. "What the Chinese want is very clear, they want to take advantage of the geographical position for their expansion and development in the region," said economist Francisco Bustamante. "A strong Chinese presence in Panama reaffirms to the world China's rise in the global hierarchy at the expense of the United States," said Carlos Guevara Mann, professor of international relations at Florida State University in Panama. "Being caught in the rivalry between China and the United States would be extremely problematic for Panama," because "it could lead to reprisals by Washington," warned Mann. During a visit to the Central American country last month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Varela about China's growing influence in the region. - Tug of war over Taiwan - China and Taiwan have been governed separately since the end of a civil war on the mainland in 1949, but Beijing sees the island as part of its territory awaiting reunification. Beijing and Taipei have been engaged for years in a diplomatic tug-of-war in developing countries, with aid and economic support often used as bargaining chips to gain diplomatic recognition. Washington, which has accused the Chinese of trying to use aid to drive a wedge between Taipei and its Western Hemisphere partners, recalled its envoy to Panama City in September this year. Varela, who visited China last year, promptly asked the US to respect his country's sovereignty. Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) and his Panamanian counterpart Juan Carlos Varela (R) signed a score of infrastructure, tourism and development cooperation agreements Beijing hopes Panama can be a logistics hub for the expansion of trade in Latin America and the Caribbean

Its well-known that dogs have acute senses, but one pooch has an extra special ability  to sniff out when her owner is ill.

Stephanie Herfel, from Wisconsin in the US, had been suffering from abdominal pain when her newly-acquired Siberian Husky, Sierra, did something unusual.

She put her nose on my lower belly and sniffed so intently that I thought I spilled something on my clothes, Ms Herfel told news outlet Journal Sentinel.

She did it a second and then a third time. After the third time, Sierra went and hid. I mean hid!

Stephanie Herfel and her Siberian Husky, Sierra. Source: Facebook/Stephanie Herfel

A doctor told Ms Herfel she had an ovarian cyst and sent her home with pain medication. When she came home, her dog acted strangely again, rolling up in a tight ball inside a closet.

Unnerved, Ms Herfel decided to get a second opinion. Several weeks later, a gynaecologist confirmed she had stage three ovarian cancer.

She underwent a full hysterectomy and had chemotherapy, but that wasnt the end of the story.

After the first diagnosis in 2014, Sierra performed the same unusual ritual, once in 2015 and again a year later.

Each time, it was confirmed that cancer had returned  first to Ms Herfels liver, then her pelvis.

Sierra with Stephanie Herfels husband Jim. Source: Facebook/Stephanie Herfel

Sierra is not the only dog who seems to have an ability to detect illness in her owner.

Other dogs have been reported to be able to detect the presence of cancer.

Its almost like the dog knows whats going on and is scared, Ashley Wagner, from the Wisconsin Ovarian Cancer Alliance, told the Journal Sentinel.

The dog didnt want to be near her.

Sierra reacted similarly when a friend with cancer visited Ms Herfel, who is now cancer-free and working to raise funds for women with ovarian cancer.

Ms Herfel is also planning to write a book about the special relationship she has with her dog.Egypt refuses to accuse police officers suspected by Italy of involvement in the grisly murder of an Italian student because of a lack of evidence, the authorities said. Giulio Regeni, a 28-year-old doctoral researcher at Britain's Cambridge University, disappeared in Cairo in January 2016. His body was found by a roadside bearing extensive marks of torture in a case that strained the traditionally close relations between Cairo and Rome, which accused Egypt of insufficient cooperation in the probe. According to Italian media, Italian prosecutors could open a formal investigation into several Egyptian secret service agents. Egypt has always denied suggestions that its security services were involved in the death of Regeni, who was researching trade unions in Egypt. "Charges should be based on evidence and not suspicions," Egypt's State Information Service said in a statement released late on Sunday. Egyptian and Italian public prosecutors met in Cairo on Wednesday to discuss the investigations into Regeni's case, it said, quoting a judicial source. The Italian prosecutors asked their Egyptian counterparts "to approve the inclusion of a number of Egyptian policemen on its register of suspects in Italy", it added. The policemen are suspected by Italian prosecutors of gathering information about Regeni, according to the source. Frustrated at the slow pace of the probe, Italy withdrew its ambassador to Egypt in April 2016, but sent a new envoy to Cairo the following year. Egyptian authorities initially suggested Regeni died in a traffic accident, but later said he was killed by a criminal gang that was subsequently wiped out in a shootout with police. Activists demonstrate in front the Italian Parliament on January 25, 2017 to mark the first anniversary since the disappearance in Egypt of Italian student Giulio RegeniA far-right party won seats in a Spanish regional parliament for the first time since the country returned to democracy following the death of longtime dictator Francisco Franco in 1975, results in Andalusia's election showed. With more than 99 percent of the votes counted late Sunday, the small Vox party took 12 seats, handing a majority to right-wing parties in the southern Spanish region governed by the Socialists for more than three decades. The result means that Vox, which opposes illegal immigration and Catalan independence, has exceeded even the most optimistic poll predictions which had forecast a possible five seat win. "The Andalusians have made history... and got rid of 36 years of socialist rule," said Vox leader Santiago Abascal. The Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) scored the worst result in its history winning 33 seats. Its potential ally on the left Adelante Andalusia (Forward Andalusia) picked up only 17 seats, depriving the left of a majority, while the conservative Popular Party (PP) won 26 seats and the Ciudadanos liberals took 21 seats. French far-right leader Marine Le Pen sent "warm congratulations" in a tweet to her "Vox friends". The poll had been seen as the first of a series of tests for Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. It was Sanchez's first electoral test since taking office in June after winning a surprise vote of no-confidence in parliament against the previous PP government of Mariano Rajoy over a corruption scandal. His Socialists had ruled Andalusia since 1982. The vote, however, is a mere foretaste of the coming 'super election year': 2019 will see municipal, regional and European elections and perhaps even an early general election to coincide with the other May polls. All eyes will now be on Vox which can try to use Andalusia as a springboard in next year's elections. If it did win a seat in the next general election, it would be the first time a far-right party had had a presence in Spain's lower house of parliament since 1982. In all, 6.5 million were eligible to vote in the ballot in Andalusia, the country's most populous region and among its poorest. The PSOE's Susana Diaz -- who last year unsuccessfully challenged Sanchez for the party leadership -- had been seeking to retain the regional presidency while also giving Sanchez and the national party a fillip. But Vox sought to throw a spoke in their wheels by adding its voice to traditional conservative forces led by the PP and market-friendly Ciudadanos, which has in recent years challenged the PP for the mantle of Spain's dominant liberal force. "These elections are key as a first step in the removal of Pedro Sanchez" and the PSOE from the government, PP leader Pablo Casado told Radio COPE on Friday. - 'Unsustainable' - Casado said a defeat in its traditional southern fiefdom would render the PSOE's attempt to retain power nationally "unsustainable." The Socialists are already walking a tightrope given they hold just 84 seats in the 350-seat national assembly. Both the PP and Ciudadanos had said during the campaign that if rightwing forces together won a majority of seats they would not rule out accepting support in the regional chamber from Vox. Vox's campaigning had mainly been against illegal immigration and any decentralisation of powers from Madrid. Pablo Iglesias, leader of the far-left Podemos party, called on all leftist groups to mobilise "to defend liberties, social justice, fraternity and ultimately democracy". Diaz meanwhile called for "stability" as she ended her campaign, warning voters against forces of the right and far-right that "want to take us backwards". Andalusia's regional election has given a majority to right-wing parties in its parliament after 36 years of control by the Socialists During a Spanish regional election women placed slices of chorizo inside ballots to protest against corrupt politicians Spanish far-right party Vox exceeded even the most optimistic poll predictionsWhat do you give the world's most literate country for its 100th birthday? For Finland's politicians and public, the answer was simple: a vast, state-of-the-art library, a new "living room for the nation". Twenty years in the planning, Helsinki's central library officially opens on December 5 at the end of a year of festivities marking the centenary of Finland's independence after breaking with Russia in 1917 following six centuries under Swedish rule. It is a huge, flowing structure of wood and glass sitting on a prime spot in the city centre, directly opposite the Finnish parliament. But whereas the parliament building is an austere and imposing hunk of granite, the new library was designed by Finnish firm ALA Architects as a welcoming, undulating structure, clad in 160 kilometres' worth (99 miles) of Finnish spruce, drawing people inside with a "warm hug". Named Oodi -- "ode" in Finnish -- it is intended as a paean to knowledge, learning and equality in what was ranked the world's most literate country by a 2016 report based on official statistics. As the grand opening approaches, workers are frantically trying to finish the outside of the building. Installing the flowing wood panelling has proven harder than expected in Helsinki's freezing climate. The interior, however, is largely ready. While books will feature heavily -- 100,000 of them -- the cutting-edge facility also boasts studios for music and video production, a cinema, and workshops containing 3D printers and laser cutters, all free of charge for the public. It will also house an EU-funded visitor centre, offering information on the 28-member bloc's work and its impact on people's daily lives. "Oodi gives a new modern idea of what it means to be a library," Tommi Laitio, Helsinki's executive director of culture and leisure, told AFP. "It is a house of literature but it's also a house of technology, it's a house of music, it's a house of cinema, it's a house of the European Union. "And I think all of these come together to this idea of hope and progress," Laitio said. - Robot librarians - One sign of such progress is the building's fleet of book-carrying robots -- small grey waggons which navigate themselves in and out of lifts, avoiding people and furniture, in order to bring returned books up from the basement and drop them off at the correct bookcase. There, a human member of staff will place the books on the shelf. Oodi's planners believe the robot librarians are the first instance in the world of self-driving technology being used in this way inside a public library. The robots will become a familiar sight to the library's expected 10,000 visitors a day. - Silence is not golden - Oodi will have areas walled off for quiet studying, but for everywhere else, there will not be a "silence" rule in force, as is common in libraries. In fact, making a mess and noise are positively encouraged inside the "nerd loft" -- a place to inspire people of all ages to come together and create. Users can build things in workshops equipped with cutting-edge tools, borrow musical instruments or play games consoles. "We are prepared to constantly have discussions with the users and the staff about what behaviour is welcome in the library, but it's definitely a place of noise and all sorts of improvised activities," Helsinki's head of library services, Katri Vanttinen, said. She is particularly proud of the library's decision not to separate the children's section from the adult books. All are housed on the library's panoramic top floor: a sweeping 50-metre long space, with glass walls on all sides supporting a billowing, cloudlike roof. "We think that the noise the children bring into this floor is positive noise, we hear the future, and we enjoy that we have children's and adult literature on the same floor with no walls in between," Vanttinen said. "Acoustics have been planned really well, so even if people are shouting at one end you can hardly hear them at the other end," she added. - As vital as drinking water - Although many countries have been cutting back on library services, Laitio said there were no problems winning political and public backing for the 98-million-euro ($110-million) project, thanks to the value that many Finns place on libraries. Some 68 million books a year are borrowed by the country's 5.5 million people, named the happiest in the world by the UN earlier this year. "Libraries in Helsinki are the second highest-rated public service after drinking water," Laitio said. "So libraries are really loved in Finland. And if I look at this project, a 100-million-euro investment, I hear zero to minimal protest. Actually people are really joyful and proud." Named Oodi -- "ode" in Finnish -- the library is intended as a paean to knowledge, learning and equality Some 68 million books a year are borrowed by the country's 5.5 million people, named the happiest in the world by the UN earlier this year The new library will open its doors to the public on December 5, 2018Germany and France will on Monday seek to revive the long-delayed EU financial transaction tax by proposing that member states be allowed to use the revenues to reduce their EU budget contributions, a German newspaper reported. Germany's Olaf Scholz and his French counterpart Bruno Le Maire will present their proposal on the sidelines of a meeting of eurozone finance ministers in Brussels, the Sueddeutsche Zeitung wrote in an article to appear in its Monday edition. According to their joint proposal paper, seen by the daily, the financial transaction tax (FTT) could be "an important element" to strengthen the European Union. The money generated by the tax "could contribute to a eurozone budget", they write, and participating countries would be allowed to deduct their FTT contributions from their wider EU budget bill. The proposed tax would be similar to the system currently used in France, which levies a tax on stock transactions in listed companies with a market capitalisation of more than one billion euros. The Sueddeutsche daily said Paris would like to see the entirety of the FTT funds flow into the proposed 19-nation eurozone budget, while Berlin believes the tax could also be used to benefit the 27-member EU budget. Both countries also reportedly intend to come up with a plan to make sure member states who can't expect to generate much revenue from the FTT aren't left behind. Brussels has been discussing an EU-wide financial transaction tax in some form or another for the past eight years. As well boosting public coffers, the FTT was seen as a way to encourage prudence and rein in the excesses of the financial markets that contributed to the 2008 global crisis. But the project has been mired in disagreements ever since, with quibbles about which financial products would be affected and at what rate. Some member states also fear it could harm market activity. German Finance Minister Olaf Scholz (R) and his French counterpart Bruno Le Maire will present their tax proposal on MondayAn elderly couples travel plans have been placed on hiatus after one of them mistakenly declared himself a terrorist on a visa form.

Grandfather John Stevenson, 70, and his wife Marion from Scotland spent more than A$3400 on flights and accommodation for a trip to New York on December 3, The Independent reports.

But Mr Stevenson incorrectly filled out his ESTA form, which is used by US Customs and Border Protection on entering the United States, declaring he was a terrorist.

The couple had been filling out their forms online and the grandfather said he was having issues with the site timing out before we could tick all the boxes.

Grandfather John Stevenson accidentally ticked a box on his ESTA form ahead of a trip to New York declaring he was a terrorist. Source: Getty Images (File pic)

One of the questions asks if you are a terrorist and it must have jumped from No to Yes without me knowing, he said.

The couple now fear the 70-year-old might never be able to travel to the US.

Mr Stevenson claims he tried to explain to border protection over the phone.

They looked up my ESTA number and said youre a terrorist, he said.

I told them that I was 70 years old and I dont even recognise what that means.

The grandfather called US Customs and Border Protection to explain himself but the situation hasnt been resolved. Source: Getty Images (File pic)

Adding to the couples woes theyve been told their flights via United Airlines cant be refunded.

They now plan on arranging an appointment at the US embassy in London to explain the mistake.

Its not the first time someones filled in the ESTA form incorrectly either.

In September, 29-year-old Scottish woman Mandie Stevenson accidentally ticked a box in her online application claiming she was a terrorist, the BBC reported.

Luckily, after a number of interviews she was able to travel to the US with her boyfriend at a later date.Hundreds protested in Bratislava on Monday against the detention without bail of 12 Greenpeace activists who staged a protest at Slovakia's largest brown coal mine, a move that the EU country's president and premier have both criticised. Protesters gathered in the city centre touted banners saying "Activism is not a crime" and "Don't imprison people who want to save your life", among others. The 12 activists were detained last week after hoisting a banner saying "End coal age!" on the tower of a lignite mine in Novaky, central Slovakia. A regional court on Sunday denied them bail. The activists -- from Belgium, Czech Republic, Finland, Germany and Slovakia -- are accused of criminal acts and face up to five years in prison if found guilty. Slovakia's liberal President Andrej Kiska, in a statement Monday, was sympathetic to the plight of the detained Greenpeace activists. "I don't understand the court's decision and I don't understand how can we put activists into the role of criminals," he said. His words were echoed by populist left Prime Minister Peter Pellegrini. "We should really consider whether it is the best solution to keep 12 young people in custody," he wrote on his Facebook page on Monday. Asked by AFP, Justice Minister Gabor Gal said that alternative ways of monitoring, such as electronic ankle bracelets, could be more appropriate in such cases. "Our laws allow using these devices. I believe that the attitudes of prosecutors, policemen and judges have to change in this respect," Gal said. The environment ministry also criticised the pre-trial detention of the activists on Monday, saying on its Facebook page that "they were always decent, constructive and pointing out specific issues regarding environmental protection." "It's the first time in the history of the Slovak Republic, that environmental activists are being held in pre-trial custody," Ivana Kohutkova, president of Greenpeace Slovakia, told AFP on Monday referring to the court's decision. "No one was injured, there was no harm done to any property, this was a non-violent action," Kohutkova said, adding that pre-trial custody is "usually used for extremely dangerous criminals." Hundreds of protesters took to the streets in BratislavaA female journalist has alleged she was kicked out of question time in parliament for showing too much skin.

ABC journalist Patricia Karvelas tweeted about the incident on Monday afternoon.

I have just been kicked out of #QT because you can allegedly see too much skin, she tweeted.

Ms Karvelas posted a photograph of herself wearing a short-sleeved white pant suit with lace detailing.

I politely put my case that these are short sleeves, she wrote on Twitter.

I left when the attendant insisted.

I think the rule is out of step with contemporary standards.

Journalist Patricia Karvelas was asked to leave Parliament because of her outfit (pictured). Source: Twitter/PatsKarvelas

Ms Karvelas spoke to the ABC on Monday night and said that she was asked to leave by a female attendant in parliament for showing too much shoulder.

Journalists in the press gallery are expected to maintain the standards of dress adopted by the majority of Senators and Members when attending in the chambers, the rule states.

Appropriate attire in the House of Representatives may include a shirt with collar, jacket and trousers for men, and a similar standard of formality for women.

The incident has prompted much comment on Twitter, with Australian politicians weighing in.

Greens MP Adam Bandt commented on the post, saying that he unsuccessfully tried to have the dress code changed in March 2017.

I tried to get this ridiculous bare arms rule changed last year, Mr Bandt posted.

Ms Karvelas was asked to leave the Press Gallery during question time (pictured). Source: Getty

Labor MP Tanya Plibersek joked about the incident.

You would be OK in America, she tweeted to Ms Karvelas on Monday.

They have the second amendment. Your right to bare arms protected.A man has been charged with murder after the grisly discovery of a decomposing body in a wheelie bin in Brisbane.

The 30-year-old Yeronga man will front the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday on one count of murder.

The victim, a man, was found in a bin outside a unit complex in Yeronga on Saturday night, after residents complained of a terrible smell.

Detective Inspector Mark Thompson said officers who attended the crime scene described it as harrowing, with the body believed to have been there for up to 10 days.

A man has been charged with murder, following the discovery of a body in a wheelie bin in the Brisbane suburb of Yeronga. Image: 7 News

I cant go into what looked like or its condition  I have spoken (to the officers who found the body and) as you can imagine its fairly horrific, he told reporters on Sunday.

After making the grim find, police said they were looking for two men, aged aged 38 and 30, and two women, aged 27 and 23, warning members of the public not to approach them.

All four were located, but only the 30-year-old man has been charged so far.

The other man, and the youngest woman are still being questioned.

The 27-year-old woman has been released without charge.A Brisbane man has revealed details of a pungent smell wafting into his friends apartment complex that ultimately led to a horrific crime scene.

Joel Rivett was staying at his mates place on Yeronga Street, in Yeronga in Brisbanes south when they were confronted by the overwhelming odour. At the time he was unaware it was being caused by a decomposing body stuffed into a a wheelie bin.

I noticed the smell for a day or two and we had to block everything up, Mr Rivett told the Courier Mail.

After going to investigate the cause, Mr Rivett said he found a red-lidded wheelie bin that was overstuffed with black bin bags.

Joel Rivett was staying at his friends apartment in Yeronga when he investigated the smell coming from the red wheelie bin. Images: 7 News

I only lifted the lid (a tiny amount) before a whole heap of flies hit me in the face and I was done, he said, adding that he opted to call the real estate agent to inform them of the stench.

Ive worked out in the bush before and smelled dead roos in the sun and it couldnt even compare. Id rather stick my nose in a carcass of that.

He said he didnt know at the time that there was dead body inside.

Detective Inspector Mark Thompson says officers who responded to the scene at 7pm on Saturday said the victim has been identified but they are yet to contact his family.

I cant go into what looked like or its condition  I have spoken (to the officers who found the body and) as you can imagine its fairly horrific, he told reporters on Sunday.

A mans decomposing body was found stuffed into a Brisbane rubbish bin in what police are calling a horrific and harrowing crime scene. Image: 7 News

Officers were later called to the unit complex on Yeronga Street at 7pm on Saturday, where a crime scene was established.

Police have since released photographs of two men, aged 38 and 30, and two women, aged 27 and 23, they would like to speak to about the death.

Members of the public are advised not to approach the people but to call triple-0 if they spotted them.

Det Inspector Thompson also called for any members of the public who had seen suspicious activity on Yeronga Street, Cowper Street, Shottery Street or at the Yeronga train station to contact Crime Stoppers.

The investigation continues.On Friday night, Mexico's presidential residence was the scene of a gala reception for the king of Spain. Hours later, its doors were thrown open so tens of thousands of ordinary people could stare slack-jawed at its opulent rooms. Welcome to the new Mexico of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Mexico's new leader is an anti-establishment leftist who has made it his trademark to reject the trappings of power. He has cut his own salary by 60 percent, put the presidential jet up for sale, eliminated the presidential security detail and forsaken the presidential residence, Los Pinos, opting to stay in his own modest home. But he didn't stop there. Within hours of officially starting his six-year term at midnight on Saturday -- even before taking the oath of office -- Lopez Obrador, 65, had opened up the sprawling residence to the public. In scenes reminiscent of the fall of Moamer Kadhafi in Libya, Saddam Hussein in Iraq or Viktor Yanukovych in Ukraine, huge crowds of ordinary Mexicans were suddenly meandering through the lavish rooms and leafy grounds of what had hours earlier been the country's most heavily guarded seat of power. The difference is that Lopez Obrador did not replace some reviled dictator in a bloody regime change: he won a democratic election to replace Enrique Pena Nieto. But he is using Los Pinos to hammer home his message that Mexico -- which had been governed by the same two parties for 89 years until his landslide victory -- has been ruled by a "mafia of power" that lived like kings by stealing the nation's resources and the hard-earned taxes of ordinary people. - 'Very ostentatious' - Judging by the reactions at Los Pinos -- which received 85,000 visitors in the first two days -- that public relations coup appears to be working. "This is very ostentatious. I never imagined a place like this," said Alejandra Barreto, 50, a shopkeeper from the central state of Puebla who was visiting Mexico City. "The rooms are frankly enormous. Why would one family need all this?" After waiting in long lines, visitors were able to stroll up a stone avenue lined with statues of the presidents who have lived at Los Pinos since 1935 and wander through the series of mansions that form the compound. The first stop is the plush office suites used by the three most recent presidents. Then visitors arrive at the second-story presidential bedroom, complete with a dressing room of some 30 square meters (325 square feet) and a palatial TV room. On the first floor, there is a dining room with a 28-seat table, where Pena Nieto's family ate daily. In the basement, there is a private movie theater with 35 reclining leather armchairs. - 'Breaking paradigms' - Officially, the residence is now a cultural center. But besides a scattering of musicians playing in the halls, there was not much culture on display the first day. The culture ministry, which now controls the complex, had no time to revamp it. Instead, the objective appeared to be to show Mexicans just how large their leaders had been living while the rooms were still practically warm with their presence. "This is a pharaonic situation. It's completely unreal for any Mexican," said Gilberto Gutierrez, 30, from the northern state of Aguascalientes and a local leader in Lopez Obrador's party, Morena -- now Mexico's largest party, with majorities in both houses of Congress for its coalition. With 56,000 square meters in all, Los Pinos is 14 times the size of the White House. "It's a place that marks the enormous distance between (Mexican leaders) and the rest of the population, and also the ostentatious way that the country's politicians have lived," said political analyst Hernan Gomez, who visited on the first day. Ileana Ramirez, a 43-year-old domestic worker, agreed after sitting on the lawn at Los Pinos to watch a huge screen broadcasting Lopez Obrador's inaugural address, in which the new president promised a "deep and radical transformation." "He is breaking the paradigms of everything we've lived our entire lives. For as long as I can remember, I'd never felt like power was in the hands of the people," she said. People line up to visit Los Pinos, Mexico's official presidential residence, after new leftist President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador opened it to the public as a cultural center Ordinary Mexicans wandered through the lavish rooms of Los Pinos, which new President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador sees as a symbol of the "mafia of power" that ruled the country for nearly 90 years A woman walks past a painting of Mexico's former president Enrique Pena Nieto as she visits Los Pinos One of the stops on the Los Pinos tour are the plush offices used by the last three Mexican presidents Officially, the Los Pinos presidential residence in Mexico City is now a cultural centerMichelle Obama on Monday returned to a London school she had visited as US first lady encouraging students to "practice sisterhood" as she presented a new memoir of her life. Obama is in the British capital to promote her hotly anticipated book, "Becoming", which has already sold more copies than any other book published in the United States this year. She told some 300 students -- mostly girls aged between 11 and 18 -- at a north London school that her past visit there as first lady in 2009 had inspired her to work for better education. "I was moved, touched and inspired as I always am by young people I meet around the world," said the 54-year-old mother of two and first African American first lady. "You reminded me of me, all the fears, the challenges you face. You guys gave me a sense of comfort." Obama confessed to facing numerous hurdles and confronting teachers who "underestimated me at every step". "I was told: 'I don't think you are Princeton material'. My dreams were too high." But Obama graduated from the select Ivy League university and went on to Harvard Law School before joining a Chicago law firm where she met her future husband and president Barack Obama. She urged the London students to find strength in each other as they overcome their own doubters and naysayers. "Practice that kind of sisterhood," Michelle Obama said. "There are enough obstacles around." The students seemed amazed that such a famous speaker came to their school. "It did not really sink in that it was her," 11-year-old Emma said. Michelle Obama has however cancelled book tour stops in Paris and Berlin to attend the funeral of former US president George H.W. Bush, who died Friday aged 94. Later at the capital's Southbank Centre, where she discussed her book with author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, she was asked what message she wanted to give to young black women. "What happens to black women, you become a caricature ... the size of her hips, her style... We are demonised," she said. "We are angry, too loud, too everything. My advice: start by getting those demons out of your head and tell yourself 'I'm good enough'." Former US first lady Michelle Obama is on a tour of European capitals to promote her memoir 'Becoming' Michelle Obama (2nd L) gave a talk at a north London school to an audience of mostly girls aged 11 to 18. Michelle Obama told the audience at London's Southbank Centre that black women are 'demonised'

A mother has been reunited with her son after a life-changing accident left him stranded in an overseas hospital.

Daniel Westwood was left paralysed, and with more than $100,000 in medical bills, after a drifting accident in Japan.

His holiday has changed his life forever  he may never walk again and he can no longer use his arms.

Itll always be a hope he walks again, but hes just determined to live the best possible life he can with what hes got, his mother Karen Triffett said.

Daniel Westwood, who was left paralysed after a drifting accident in Japan, is reunited with his mother back in Perth. Source: 7News

Daniel was stranded in Japan for a month, but hes now finally back in Perth, reunited with his mother and facing a long period of rehabilitation.

The thrill-seeker went to Japan for a drift racing event, but lost control of his car.

While he had medical insurance, it didnt cover motorsports.

Daniel lost control of his car during an event in Japan. Source: 7News

After a fundraising page was launched, the people of Perth pitched in for his bills.

Asked how he felt about being back home as he left Perth Airport, he simply said: Yeah, it is good to be back home, thank you.

What is drifting?

Daniel Westwood had gone to the source of drifting as a motorsport  it was first popularised in Japan in the early 1970s.

Decades on, and drifting competitions have sprung up across the globe.

Drifting is a driving technique where the driver intentionally oversteers, allowing the car to slide, or drift, at speed.

In 2006, the motorsport reached mainstream culture with the release of the Hollywood film The Fast and The Furious: Tokyo Drift.The Trans Iowa v13 start line moments before the start. Image by Matt Gersib. "Trans Iowa Stories" is an every Sunday post which...Decades after polio was eradicated from Papua New Guinea, the crippling and sometimes deadly disease has returned, leaving doctors scrambling to revive long-lapsed vaccination programmes. Until earlier this year, the polio virus was endemic in only three countries in the world: Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan. But a relatively rare strain is now spreading throughout rugged, jungle-cloaked Papua New Guinea, one of the world's poorest countries. Since the first case was detected in April -- paralysing a six-year-old boy named Gafo near the northern coast -- polio has infected dozens more nationwide, prompting the government to declare a national emergency. Papua New Guinea, which today has a population of around eight million people, thought it had eradicated the wild variant of the virus in 1996, and was certified polio-free in 2000. But since then, experts say, lapsed vaccination programmes and poor sanitation have left an open invitation for the prehistoric disease to return. "It's not a sudden surprise," said Monjur Hossain, a UNICEF expert living in Port Moresby. "The government knew about it," he told AFP. "We all knew about it." In a cruel twist, the virus afflicting Papua New Guineans today -- clinically known as VDPV1 -- started life as a vaccine. The much-weakened version of the polio virus was first ingested as an oral vaccine, before spreading throughout the community via feces. Because of low-levels of immunisation, the harmless attenuated virus continued to circulate person-to-person for a long period of time, allowing it to mutate into a more virulent strain. Similar localised outbreaks of vaccine-derived polio have been previously detected in the Horn of Africa, Syria and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Still, healthcare workers are adamant that the benefits of vaccination programmes massively outweigh the risk of vaccine-derived polio. World Health Organization experts estimate well over 10 million cases of polio have been averted worldwide since widespread vaccination began two decades ago, a 99 percent reduction. But even with modern treatment, an estimated one in 100 cases of polio results in irreversible paralysis. A fraction of those who are paralysed die. - 'Very expensive, very tough' - Doctors in Papua New Guinea are trying to respond to the crisis by providing countrywide immunisation -- with at least three oral doses for each child. Hundreds of thousands have already been vaccinated. Despite government and international support, the country's lack of roads and unforgiving terrain -- particularly in the central highlands -- have made that task difficult. Many villages can only be reached by air, or by day-long river trips. Throw into the mix tribal violence, malnutrition, drought, multiple outbreaks of other diseases like measles and the aftermath of a massive February earthquake and things become more difficult still. "It's really challenging in terms of access, in terms of logistics," said Hossain. "It's very expensive and very tough." One answer has been to create mobile clinics that travel to villages far from populous areas like Mount Hagen -- which itself has very few paved roads. At one such clinic near Mount Hagen's rough-and-tumble market, health worker Margaret Akima is virtually dragging mothers and their children into her barebones trailer. In the first few days after setting up, she administered more than 100 doses of polio vaccine a day. By the final day of the two week stint, it is down to around 50. From amid the throngs of bored men -- fighting, shouting and playing darts -- Akima picks out 37-year-old Maria Ponde. She has travelled to Mount Hagen with her six-year-old daughter Warapnong to buy a spade head. "I was not expecting her to get vaccinated," Ponde said as the dose was administered to her daughter. Warapnong has already missed a few courses of the vaccine and only received this one by fluke, underscoring how scattershot the response still is. Six-year-old Warapnong Ponde is given a polio vaccination in a mobile clinic in rural Papua New Guinea, as the impoverished country fights a new outbreak of a disease which had previously been eradicated Papua New Guinea's poor roads and unforgiving terrain -- particularly in the central highlands -- are major obstacles for the nationwide vaccination programme Maria Ponde and her daughter Warapnong wait to recieve a polio vaccine. Warapnong has already missed a few courses of the vaccine and only received this one by fluke, underscoring the scattershot response Mount Hagen is the Western Highlands is a challenging location for health workers to access Basic mobile trailers are used by health workers in the vaccination programme which is backed by the WHO

Police have released images of two people they wish to speak to as a man remains fighting for his life in hospital following an assault at a Sydney train station.

The man, 36, remains in a critical condition after he was attacked at Clyde Railway Station in Sydneys west on Saturday at about 6pm.

The 36-year-old was with another man, 32, when they were approached by a woman.

The woman slapped the 32-year-old man in the face and he attempted to grab her hand to stop her, police said.

Images of two people police wish to speak to have been released as a 36-year-old man remains fighting for life in hospital following an assault at Clyde Railway Station. Source: NSW Police

However, another man became involved and allegedly punched the 32-year-old man, knocking him over.

The man then allegedly punched the 36-year-old to the ground unconscious. He then was seen running from the station with the woman along William Street, Granville.

The victim was treated for head injuries and is expected to remain in Westmead Hospital for a number of days.

These two people at Clyde Railway Station can assist police with their inquiries. Source: NSW Police

His alleged assailant is described by police as being Caucasian in appearance, aged mid to late 20s, bald, and with a beard.

The woman is described as being of Caucasian in appearance, mid to late 20s, and with long brown hair.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stopper on 1800 333 000 or use the online reporting page.Nations facing imminent environmental disaster on Monday called on rich polluters to help them back from the brink, as the UN warned the world's plan to avoid climate catastrophe was "way off course". From glaciers melting in Nepal to the rising seas threatening to engulf small island states, the world is already experiencing the damage lying in wait if global warming runs unchecked. Nearly 200 nations gathered in Poland Monday for the start of the COP24 summit, where they must agree on a universal rulebook to make good on the promises they made in the 2015 Paris climate deal. "Nepal is a country comprised of mountains and plains," president Bidhya Devi Bhandari told delegates. "We have been bearing the brunt of disproportionate impact of climate change despite being a low carbon-emitting country." The Paris agreement vowed to limit global temperature rises to under two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) and to the safer cap of 1.5C if at all possible. For this, richer nations must provide funding -- $100 billion per year by 2020 -- to steer developing countries towards greener energy while drastically drawing down their own emissions. But developing nations have complained that richer states -- responsible for the vast majority of historic fossil fuel use -- aren't doing enough to help them adapt to our warming planet. "We feel as if we have been penalised for the mistakes we never made," said Bhandari. "It is incumbent on the international community to ensure that justice is done." Trust in the Paris process has been hit by US President Donald Trump's decision to renege on his country's commitment, and there are fears the political will to act is waning as negotiations drag on. Not a single G20 nation sent a top-level representative to the COP on Monday. - 12 years to halve emissions - With just one degree Celsius of warming so far, Earth is already being subjected to raging forest fires, flooding and superstorms made worse by rising seas. A string of UN reports have sounded the alarm: levels of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere are the highest in 3 million years and the last four years were the four hottest in history. In October a team of more than 90 independent scientists said mankind must reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by half within the next 12 years to avoid heat rises that could tear at the fabric of society. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned nations that their plan to chart a route away from runaway global warming was "way off course". "Even as we witness devastating climate impacts causing havoc across the world, we are still not doing enough, nor moving fast enough, to prevent irreversible and catastrophic climate disruption," Guterres said. President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria used his address to call for more stringent guidelines on financing "from developed countries to developing economies for climate change action." As developing nations begged for vastly quicker action, host Poland was pushing its own agenda: a so-called "just transition" to greener energy which critics fear would allow it to continue burning coal for decades. - 'Generation that betrayed humanity' - Eighty percent of Polish energy comes from coal, and the COP24 itself is being held on the site of a decommissioned plant in the mining city of Katowice. Proceedings were injected with a shot of glamour as former California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and veteran wildlife documentary maker Sir David Attenborough both addressed delegates. At a roundtable event later Monday, Schwarzenegger was asked what he would most wish for. "I wish that I could be The Terminator in real life to be able to travel back in time and to stop all fossil fuels when they were discovered," said the former movie tough guy. Attenborough issued a plea for action on behalf of humanity: "If we don't take action the collapse of our civilisations and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizon". Frank Bainimarama, prime minister of Fiji and president of last year's COP, said developed nations must act before countries such has his are consumed by the waves. "Or, God forbid, (we) ignore the irrefutable evidence and become the generation that betrayed humanity," he said. Developing nations have complained that richer states -- responsible for the vast majority of historic fossil fuel use -- aren't doing enough to help them adapt Arnold Schwarzenegger made a surprise address UN chief Antonio Guterres warned nations that their plan to chart a route away from runaway global warming was "way off course" The world's top 10 greenhouse gas emitting countries.A court in Sri Lanka suspended Mahinda Rajapakse's powers as prime minister on Monday and ruled his disputed cabinet could not govern the strife-torn island until it proved its legitimacy. The decision casts further legal doubt over Rajapakse's claim to lead Sri Lanka, which has been in turmoil since his controversial appointment a month ago. Rajapakse, who was installed after the country's president sacked Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister on October 26, has twice been voted out by parliament but has refused to step down. Rajapakse said he did not agree with the court's decision and would appeal on Tuesday, but cancelled a meeting with bankers in compliance with the ruling. "We do not agree with the interim order of the Court of Appeal," he said in a statement, referring to himself and his party. "We are preparing papers to go to the Supreme Court first thing in the morning tomorrow." He urged supporters to remain calm and join his struggle to press for a general election nearly two years ahead of schedule. President Maithripala Sirisena has been under pressure to prove his appointee Rajapakse -- a divisive but charismatic strongman who twice ruled Sri Lanka -- commands support. But the president acknowledged that he was left without a government following the sudden court ruling. Minority Tamil legislators who held talks with Sirisena on Monday evening said the leader had told them he would resolve the political vacuum "within 24 hours". The lawmakers, who command 14 seats and hold the balance of power in the legislature, met Sirisena to discuss the release of more than 100 Tamil detainees held in custody for several years without trial. However, there was no breakthrough in securing the release of the detainees, the Tamil MPs said. The Tamil MPs last week pledged support to sacked premier Wickremesinghe, further weakening the position of the Sirisena-Rajapakse coalition. - 'Irreparable damage' - Rajapakse has ignored parliament and doubled down, naming a cabinet and assuming duties at the helm of a disputed government even as his rivals frustrate his attempts. A majority of legislators asked the Court of Appeal last week to intervene, saying Rajapakse should not have remained in office after parliament passed motions against him. Their position "was that Rajapakse had no legitimacy after losing two no-confidence motions", lawyer and legislator M. A. Sumanthiran told reporters after the decision. The court gave Rajapakse until December 12 to prove to its judges his legitimacy to lead and the authority of his cabinet. Until then, it agreed that "irreparable or irremediable damage" could be done to Sri Lanka if Rajapakse was allowed to remain prime minister, said court chairman Padman Surasena. Wickremesinghe -- who was unceremoniously dumped by his former ally Sirisena in a late-night power swap -- says his sacking was illegal, and parliament supports his stake to lead the country. The two rivals had been neck and neck trying to cobble together enough backing, negotiating with key legislators and trying to lure defectors. The contest spilled over into outright brawling on the floor of parliament last month when Rajapakse loyalists broke furniture and attacked rivals with chilli powder. Rajapakse loyalists have since boycotted the legislature, accusing the speaker of bias. After Rajapakse lost his first no-trust vote on November 14, the speaker declared that the country was left without a government. Wickremesinghe's party described Rajapakse as an usurper. The latest court ruling is yet another setback for Rajapakse, who ruled with an iron fist for a decade before being defeated by none other than Sirisena in a 2015 election. Parliament last week voted to block Rajapakse's "rogue government" from spending any money, meaning he cannot finance his administration or present a budget for 2019. The Supreme Court this week is also expected to rule on whether Sirisena's decision to dissolve parliament in November was constitutional. The court intervened and restored parliament in November when Sirisena -- seeking to stave off a challenge to his new appointee -- suspended the legislature. President Maithripala Sirisena (R) has been under pressure to prove his appointee Mahinda Rajapakse (L) -- a divisive but charismatic strongman who twice ruled Sri Lanka -- commands supportA school has apologised after a substitute teacher told Year 1 students Santa Claus isnt real.

Michael Raj, the principal of Cedar Hill School in New Jersey, sent a letter to parents following the incident on Thursday.

Mr Raj, whos also a parent, said he understands the sensitive nature of the topic.

Montville Schools Superintendent Rene Rovtar said in a statement that she was troubled and disheartened by this incident.

Ms Rovtar explained that childhood wonder associated with all holidays and traditions is special to her.

A school has apologised after a substitute teacher told Year 1 students Santa Claus isnt real. Source: Getty Images (File pic)

Mr Raj said hes spoken with the teacher about her poor judgment.

Lisa Simek, a parent of one of the students, claims children were told parents just buy presents and put them under their tree.

She told them reindeer cant fly and elves are not real, elf on the shelf is just a pretend doll that your parents move around, the mum wrote on Facebook.

Ms Simek also claims the teacher told students the tooth fairy isnt real and the Easter Bunny is made up.

She told them magic does not exist, she wrote.

There is no such thing as magic anything.

A grown woman tried to crush our six-year-olds spirit, along with the spirits of the other 22 kids in Cedar Hills first grade class.

She added parents have been in damage control since the children came home from school.

However, journalism students at Toms River High East have offered to write personalised letters to students from the North Pole as part of a creative writing assignment.

Ms Simek said she didnt want the teacher blamed as no one knows her situation or perspective.

Administrators havent released the teachers name or said if she would be allowed to work again in the district.

With Associated PressThe US-led coalition against the Islamic State group said Monday it killed a senior jihadist involved in the executions of an American aid worker and other Western hostages. Abu al-Umarayn was accused of involvement in the November 2014 beheading of Peter Kassig, a former US ranger who was doing volunteer humanitarian work when captured in 2013. "He was killed and more information will be available after a full assessment," Sean Ryan, spokesman for the US-led coalition, said in a statement issued after the Sunday strikes. "Al Umarayn had given indications of posing an imminent threat to coalition forces and he was involved in the killing of American citizen and former US Army Ranger, Peter Kassig," he said. Ryan said the jihadist had also been involved in the execution of several other prisoners. It is the first time the coalition, which has been hunting down IS fighters in Iraq and Syria since 2014, has announced the killing of a jihadist leader linked to Kassig's death. At the time of the execution, IS released a video showing Kassig's severed head but did not publish footage of the decapitation, as it had done for other hostages. Syria's official SANA news agency had earlier Sunday accused the US-led coalition of firing on Syrian army positions in remote eastern regions. - Regime targeted? - "The American coalition forces launched around 8:00 pm (1800 GMT) this evening several missiles against some positions of our forces in the Ghorab mountains south of Sukhna," it said. Quoting a military source, it said the bombardment had caused only material damage. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said coalition forces fired "more than 14 missiles" at a Syrian army convoy as it was passing through the desert. "The group was lost in the middle of the desert around 35 kilometres from the Al-Tanf base", the Observatory's director Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP. The United States often uses this base to launch its strikes against IS jihadists. Ryan, the coalition spokesman, denied any strikes targeted the Syrian army. "False, the strikes were as the report stated and directed at ISIS," he said, using another acronym for the jihadist organisation. Kassig founded a humanitarian organisation in 2012 that trained some 150 civilians to provide medical aid to people in Syria. His group also gave food, cooking supplies, clothing and medicine to the needy. He took the name Abdul Rahman after converting to Islam. His execution was part of a gruesome series of Western hostage beheadings that IS filmed and published to shock the world as it attempted to expand across the region. - 2014 executions - Before Kassig's decapitation, which IS announced on November 16, four other hostages were executed by IS: - British aid worker Alan Henning (video released on October 3) - British aid worker David Haines (video released on September 13) - US journalist Steven Sotloff (video released on September 2) - US journalist James Foley (video released on August 19) Another hostage held at the time and whose execution was threatened was British journalist John Cantlie. He later appeared in videos in which he uttered IS propaganda but, more than six years after his kidnapping, his fate remains unclear. The leader of the cell which was responsible for the executions and became known as "The Beatles" was believed to be Mohammed Emwazi, a British jihadist nicknamed "Jihadi John" who was killed in a drone strike in 2015. After expanding to control a self-styled "caliphate" straddling Syria and Iraq which was larger than Britain, IS suffered a string of military setbacks. It has virtually no fixed positions left in Iraq and is now defending a few pockets in desert areas of Syria, including the region where Sunday's strikes were carried out. The other is the jihadists' main active front in the Hajin area of Deir Ezzor province, where coalition-backed Kurdish-led fighters have been struggling to flush out a group of jihadists making a fierce last stand. The coalition has estimated around 2,000 jihadists remain inside that pocket. The international alliance, as well as the Syrian government and its Russian backers, have all repeatedly vowed to carry on the fight until achieving a full victory over IS. But analysts have warned that fully eradicating the jihadists from those desert hideouts, where the state has a very limited footprint, could prove almost impossible. Peter Kassig, pictured here in a photo shared by his family, foundeda humanitarian organisation in 2012 that trained some 150 civilians to provide medical aid to people in SyriaAn Islamic State group leader involved in the execution of American aid worker Peter Kassig and other Western prisoners was targeted in a strike Sunday by the US-led anti-jihadist coalition in Syria. Kassig, aged 26 at the time of his death, was among a group of prisoners decapitated by jihadists in November 2014. The mass execution was shown in a video released by the group. "Coalition forces conducted precision strikes against a senior ISIS member, Abu al Umarayn, and several other ISIS members in the Badiyah Desert, Syria," said Sean Ryan, spokesman for the US-led coalition, in a statement in English. "Al Umarayn had given indications of posing an imminent threat to coalition forces and he was involved in the killing of American citizen and former U.S. Army Ranger, Peter Kassig", kidnapped in Syria in 2013, he added. Ryan said he had been also been involved in the execution of several other prisoners. "Coalition airstrikes continue to disrupt ISIS command and control on the battlefield as we remove key figures from their ranks," he said. Damascus had earlier Sunday accused the coalition of launching missiles against Syrian army positions, according to the official Sana news agency. "The American coalition forces launched around 8:00 pm (1800 GMT) this evening several missiles against some positions of our forces in the Ghorab mountains south of Sukhna," causing only "damage to equipment," Sana said, citing a military source. According to the monitoring Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, coalition forces positioned in the Al-Tanf region fired "more than 14 missiles" at a Syrian army convoy as it was passing through the desert in the far east of Homs province. "The group was lost in the middle of the desert around 35 kilometres from the Al-Tanf base" of US and British troops, the Observatory's director Rami Abdel Rahmane told AFP. The United States generally uses this base to launch its strikes against IS jihadists. It has also been used in the past to train Syrian opposition fighters. Peter Kassig founded a humanitarian organisation in 2012 that trained some 150 civilians to provide medical aid to people in Syria. His group also gave food, cooking supplies, clothing and medicine to the needy. He took the name Abdul-Rahman after converting to Islam. Before Kassig's death, his life had been threatened in an earlier video showing the beheading of another aid worker, Briton Alan Henning. Kassig's mother Paula reached out directly to IS militants to plead for her son's life. The international coalition intervened in Syria and Iraq in 2014 to fight the expansion of IS after it had taken control of vast swathes of territory straddling the two countries. Defeated in Iraq, the group still retains territory in some parts of the Syrian desert, particularly in the east of the country, where the coalition continues to fight the jihadists with the support of an alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters. Peter Kassig, pictured here in a photo shared by his family, foundeda humanitarian organisation in 2012 that trained some 150 civilians to provide medical aid to people in SyriaEnglish French

The LeddarTech Pavilion at CES will showcase how the company sets itself apart within the LiDAR industry with its automotive LiDAR development platform and mobility solutions. In addition to unveiling solutions that redefine the typical LiDAR technology for ADAS and autonomous vehicles, the pavilion located at CP-16 will also showcase the technology of Leddar Ecosystem partners.



QUEBEC CITY, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LeddarTech, an industry leader providing the most versatile and scalable automotive LiDAR development platform, announces its participation in the world-renowned CES 2019. From January 8 to 11, in Las Vegas, Nevada, LeddarTech will feature next-gen LiDAR solutions based on its LeddarEgine with ranges exceeding 200m at 10% target reflectivity, demonstrating market-leading performances for a solid-state LiDAR using near-infrared (NIR) light. CES 2019 also marks the official unveiling of the LeddarCore LCA2 System-on-chip production samples, the first LiDAR SoC available for use in the design and manufacturing of LiDAR solutions for ADAS and AD applications will be presented at the LeddarTech Pavilion, alongside multiple Leddar Ecosystem partners showcasing components and software supporting LiDAR development based on the LeddarEngine.

The LiDAR development platform we will present at CES is truly a disruptive technology as it allows our customers to design and mass produce customized LiDAR solutions that meet the specific application requirements of OEMs, optimizing performance and costs for all levels of autonomy, stated Charles Boulanger, CEO of LeddarTech. This is a win-win model for all stakeholders, from the component supplier to the automaker, which explains its significant traction with multiple Tier-1 manufacturers already developing with the LCA2 LeddarEngine, as well as with our growing ecosystem, concluded Mr. Boulanger

The LeddarTech Pavilion at CES 2019 will appeal to those involved in active safety and autonomous driving technologies, with a focus on LiDAR solutions for mobility applications in passenger vehicles, robotaxis, autonomous shuttles, trucks and delivery vehicles. The 30 delegates from LeddarTech will be available to welcome visitors, analysts and members of the press and to demonstrate the companys automotive solid-state LiDAR technology, as well as the new long-range Leddar M16-LSR, an off-the-shelf 16 segment solid-state LiDAR module for mobility applications.

LeddarTechs innovative LiDAR technology will also be demonstrated in several other locations at CES 2019, including with the Government of Canada, OSRAM, and TriLumina.

Leddar Ecosystem Showcase Zone

Leddar Ecosystem members who supply various specialized components, software and systems for use in the design of SSLs based on the LeddarEngine will also be on-site at the pavilion:

AutonomouStuff (integrator)

(integrator) Clarion, Malaysia (manufacturing)

(manufacturing) dlhBOWLES (sensor cleaning system)

(sensor cleaning system) Excelitas Technologies (opto-electronics components)

(opto-electronics components) Hamamatsu (opto-electronics components)

(opto-electronics components) Integrated Device Technology (integrated circuits)

(integrated circuits) Lasertel (integrated laser sources and drive electronics)

(integrated laser sources and drive electronics) ANSYS (pervasive simulation tools)

(pervasive simulation tools) OSRAM (opto-electronics components and LiDAR developer)

(opto-electronics components and LiDAR developer) Renesas Electronics (system-on-chip devices)

(system-on-chip devices) TriLumina (NIR illumination modules)

These industry tech leaders will not only demonstrate their products but will also lead technical seminars throughout the week at the pavilions Ecosystem Classroom.

About the CES 2019 Exhibition

The Consumer Electronics Show, which occurs annually in Las Vegas, showcases more than 3,900 exhibiting companies, including manufacturers, developers and suppliers of consumer technology hardware, content, technology delivery systems and more. It features a conference program with more than 300 conference sessions and more than 170K attendees from 150 countries.

About LeddarTech

LeddarTech is an industry leader providing the most versatile and scalable automotive LiDAR development platform based on the unique LeddarEngine, which consists of a suite of automotive-grade, functional safety certified SoCs working in tandem with LeddarSP signal processing software. The company is responsible for several innovations in cutting-edge mobility remote-sensing applications, its patented technologies enhancing ADAS and autonomous driving capabilities for automobiles, trucks, buses, delivery vehicles, robotaxis, shuttles, and more. Additional information about LeddarTech is accessible at www.LeddarTech.com, and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

LeddarTech, Leddar, LeddarEngine, LeddarSP, and LeddarTech logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeddarTech Inc. All other brands, product names and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners.

LeddarTech Contact: Daniel Aitken, VP Marketing and Communications

+1-418-653-9000 ext. 232 | Daniel.Aitken@Leddartech.comA UN plane will evacuate 50 wounded Huthi militants from Yemen's rebel-held capital Sanaa on Monday as a "confidence building measure" ahead of planned peace talks in Sweden, a Saudi-led military coalition said. "A UN chartered plane will arrive at Sanaa international airport Monday to evacuate 50 wounded combatants... three Yemeni doctors and a UN doctor, from Sanaa to Muscat," a coalition spokesman said in a statement carried by the official Saudi Press Agency. The fate of wounded rebels had been a stumbling block to the start of a previous round of aborted peace talks in September. The coalition agreed to facilitate the medical evacuations at the request of UN envoy Martin Griffiths for "humanitarian reasons" and as a "confidence building measure", the spokesman added. Huthi rebels on Thursday said they will attend UN-brokered peace talks in Sweden this week if guarantees to ensure they can leave home and return back are maintained. Yemen's internationally recognised government, which is also backed by a Saudi-led coalition, has already said it would attend the planned talks in Sweden. Griffiths has held talks separately in the past few days with officials from both sides as part of efforts to lay the ground work for the peace talks. In September, a previous round of UN-led talks failed when the Huthis refused to travel to Geneva, accusing the world body of failing to guarantee their delegation's return to Sanaa or secure the evacuation of wounded rebels to Oman. Previous talks broke down in 2016, when 108 days of negotiations in Kuwait failed to yield a deal and left rebel delegates stranded in Oman for three months. According to UN figures, nearly 10,000 people have been killed since the coalition joined the conflict in 2015 to bolster Hadi, triggering what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Rights groups fear the actual toll is far higher. A Yemeni soldier loyal to the Shiite Huthi rebels mans a turret in the back of a pickup truck as others ride during a military parade in the capital Sanaa on October 16, 2018 to show support against the Saudi-led intervention in the countryThe UN's Yemen envoy visited rebel-held Sanaa on Monday as wounded insurgents were flown out of the capital for medical treatment, a key step towards bringing warring parties to the negotiating table in Sweden. A UN source said efforts were being made to reopen Sanaa International Airport, closed for the past three years because of the war between the Iran-aligned Huthis and the Yemeni government backed by a Saudi-led coalition. A UN-chartered flight left Sanaa with 50 wounded rebels on board and landed in Muscat, Oman's official ONA news agency reported. The transfer was "in support of the efforts of the UN to prepare the ground for the negotiations planned in Sweden", ONA said on Twitter. A UN source said the wounded had been evacuated in a "confidence-building measure" aimed at pushing ahead with negotiations between the Huthis and the Saudi-led coalition this month. Huthi spokesman Mohamed Abdalsalam tweeted the rebels' appreciation of UN envoy Martin Griffiths for his "humanitarian effort that treats a small part of the Yemeni suffering caused by the closure of the airport and blockade". Griffiths was "pleased to confirm" 50 injured Yemenis were to be treated on neutral ground in Muscat and "urged all Yemenis to work together in pursuit of peace and stability", according to the envoy's Twitter account. The evacuation marked a key step in kickstarting stalled negotiations as world powers press for an end to the devastating conflict that has pushed Yemen to the brink of famine. Saudi Arabia and its allies, who back Yemen's embattled President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, had agreed to allow for the 50 wounded combatants, 50 escorts and a team of Yemeni and UN doctors to be flown out to Muscat -- a condition set by the Huthis for negotiations. Kuwait's Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled al-Jarallah told reporters that a Huthi delegation was set to leave Sanaa for Stockholm on Tuesday morning together with his country's ambassador to Yemen. The oil-rich Gulf emirate, which has been a mediator in the devastating conflict, hosted Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom for talks in Kuwait City on Monday. - Talks to include airport - The fate of wounded rebels had been a stumbling block to the start of a previous round of aborted peace talks in Geneva in September. The rebels had said they would attend the talks in Sweden if they were guaranteed safe passage and the evacuations. Journalists were banned from Sanaa airport in the hours leading up to the departure of the UN evacuation flight. Wounded rebels were transported across the capital, controlled by the insurgents since 2014, in ambulances as they made their way to the long-defunct airport. The proposed UN-brokered peace talks have been backed by both the rebels and the government and were expected to take place in Sweden this week. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, however, has played down the early December schedule and said he hoped talks would start "this year". A UN source said the reopening of Sanaa airport was a priority at the next talks. A UN panel of experts this year said the "effective closure" of Sanaa airport since 2015, when the Saudi-led alliance intervened in the Yemen war, constituted a violation of international humanitarian law. - 'No excuses' - The opposing sides have cautiously reiterated their willingness to attend negotiations. Yemen's information minister, Moammer al-Eryani, said the government had agreed to the Sweden talks as a first step towards "facilitating negotiations" and to end "all excuses invoked by the coupists (rebels) to evade finding peace". Huthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said the rebels were ready to hold talks "starting with a ceasefire" by the rival coalition, at a press conference broadcast on the insurgents' Al-Masirah television. Iran also offered support on Monday, saying it was ready to cooperate with the international community to resolve the crisis. Previous talks planned for September in Geneva failed to get under way as the Huthi delegation never left Sanaa, saying the United Nations could not guarantee their safe return. Talks initially broke down in 2016, when 108 days of negotiations in Kuwait failed to yield a deal and left rebel delegates stranded in Oman for three months. UN aid chief Mark Lowcock warned last week that Yemen was "on the brink of a major catastrophe". His comments followed renewed deadly clashes between Huthi rebels and pro-government forces in the Red Sea port city of Hodeida, which is vital for the flow of humanitarian aid and controlled by the rebels. The coalition spokesman said military operations in Hodeida were "ongoing" on Monday. The UN has described Yemen as the world's worst humanitarian disaster, with at least 10,000 people killed since the coalition intervened. Rights groups fear the actual toll is far higher. A wounded Yemeni rebel waits at Sanaa International Airport to be evacuated to Oman on December 3, 2018 A wounded Yemeni rebel is transported by ambulance to Sanaa International Airport, before being evacuated to the Omani capital Muscat for treatment, on December 3, 2018 A wounded Yemeni rebel waits at Sanaa International Airport to be evacuated to Oman on December 3, 2018 A Yemeni mother sits next to her severely malnourished five-year-old son in Khokha, Hodeida province on November 22, 2018Mexico deported scores of Central American migrants arrested after hundreds forced their way through a Mexican police blockade and headed for the United States but were met with tear gas and rubber bullets. Around 500 men, women and children, part of a caravan of roughly 5,000 mainly Hondurans who have been trekking toward the US for weeks, scrambled over a rusted metal fence and surged into a concrete riverbed toward San Diego on Sunday. The group was stopped by a chain-link fence topped with barbed wire and US Border Patrol agents firing tear gas and rubber bullets. At least one man was wounded. Chief Patrol Agent Rodney Scott told CNN that "numerous" migrants -- mainly men -- had made it across, however, and 42 of them were arrested. Mexico's National Institute of Migration Commissioner Gerardo Garcia confirmed the 98 arrests on his country's side, saying there were "instigators" in the migrant caravan pushing people to illegally cross the border. The incident was the most serious flashpoint in a weeks-long crisis that US President Donald Trump used to drum up support in this month's midterm elections. Trump hit out again by threatening a permanent closure of the frontier, and defended the use of tear gas by US border patrol, saying it was "very safe." "They had to use (it) because they were being rushed by some very tough people and they used tear gas and here's the bottom line: nobody's coming into our country unless they come in legally," Trump told reporters. "The tear gas is a very minor form of the tear gas itself. It's very safe," he later added. Mexico sent a diplomatic note requesting that US authorities "conduct a thorough investigation of the events during which non-lethal US weapons were used in Mexico." Trump also claimed, without providing evidence, that some people at the border he dubbed "grabbers" clutch unrelated children to make it safer for themselves and increase their chances of getting into the US. "They grab a child because they think they'll have a certain status by having a child. You know, you have certain advantages in terms of our crazy laws that frankly Congress should be changing," he said. - 'Broken hearts and hopes' - Most of the migrants stumbled back into camp in the northwestern Mexican city of Tijuana, dirty, scared and with ripped clothes. "We're here with broken hearts and hopes," said Andy Colon, a 20-year-old woman who traveled from Honduras with her sister and two children. "We were deluded into believing that we had already reached the United States, and that they would grant us asylum," Colon told AFP. The San Ysidro border post across from Tijuana -- the busiest crossing on the US-Mexico border -- was closed to traffic and pedestrians for several hours following the incident. Trump, who for weeks has been condemning the caravan, lashed out once more. "Mexico should move the flag waving migrants, many of whom are stone cold criminals, back to their countries," he tweeted. "Do it by plane, do it by bus, do it anyway you want, but they are NOT coming into the U.S.A. We will close the border permanently if need be. Congress, fund the WALL!" Trump said, referring to his central election pledge to build a wall across the US-Mexico border. - 'Lots of kids fainted' - Many of the migrants say they are fleeing violence and poverty in Honduras in search of asylum north of the border. Around 1,000 migrants, including women and young children, had been holding a peaceful midday demonstration in Tijuana when half of the group bolted toward the border. The sudden rush overwhelmed the Mexican police, who were deployed with full riot gear. Several hundred made it over the first barrier, with video clips posted on Twitter showing crowds of people dashing across a shallow concrete riverbed toward the United States. When they neared the second fence, US border agents fired tear gas and rubber bullets at them as helicopters buzzed overhead. People covered their faces to protect themselves from the acrid gas, as mothers clutched their young children and fled back to Mexico for safety. "We were told that if we crossed (the first barrier) they would give us asylum, because we were already in the United States," said Flor Jimenez, a 32-year-old Honduran woman who was among those who turned back along with her husband, sister and young daughter. "But now it seems that they want to kill us, and we got very scared." US Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen accused the migrants of seeking to harm US border patrol personnel "by throwing projectiles at them." But one Honduran man, who did not give his name, told AFP that American officers had "got upset because we were close to the border." "The alarm went off and they began throwing tear gas at us. A lot of people started to go down. A person got hit and lots of kids fainted. So some people got rocks and threw them because many kids were fainting," he said. Another Honduran who gave his name as Wilmer said "they started throwing tear gas and they hit a journalist in the head." A third man, who requested anonymity, showed AFP what he described as injuries from rubber bullets. He had two fresh round bruises in his abdomen. - Asylum demands - Trump has deployed nearly 6,000 troops to the border, on top of more than 2,000 members of the National Guard, but Scott said the Department of Defense was not involved in Sunday's engagement. To enter the US legally, migrants must apply for asylum, but the wait for those requests to be processed can last up to a year. The Washington Post reported Saturday that the Trump administration had gained the support of Mexico's incoming government for a plan to require asylum seekers to wait in Mexico for their applications to be processed. A Central American migrant seeking to reach the United States, while holding a child, walks next to a line of police officers outside of a temporary shelter in Tijuana, Mexico near the US border on November 26, 2018 A family from Honduras poses outside a temporary shelter in Tijuana, Mexico Map locating Tijuana, where US border officials temporarily closed a busy border crossing point on November 25, 2018 US border forces drove the migrants back with tear gas A group of Central American migrants -- mostly from Honduras -- cross the almost dry riverbed of the Tijuana River in an attempt to get to El Chaparral port of entry, in Tijuana, Mexico, on November 25, 2018 US security personnel guard the United States-Mexico border at the San Ysidro border crossing point on November 25, 2018Twenty Yemeni children huddle together outside Khokha hospital, hoping to be let into a clinic that serves as a lifeline for tens of thousands. On the narrow pavement, a boy dressed in purple leans limply against his mother. In her lap is a baby with expressionless eyes. The hospital, located in a government-controlled western province, is one of the war-torn country's better-resourced clinics. It receives supplies and aid from the United Nations and donors including the United Arab Emirates, a main ally of the internationally recognised Yemeni authorities. But nearly four years into a war that has pushed 14 million Yemenis to the brink of starvation, even Khokha hospital cannot meet the needs of all the malnourished children who arrive daily. "We take the phone numbers of the patients when there aren't enough beds for them, and when a case is discharged, we call them back for treatment," says Abdullah Zuhair, a doctor in the children's ward. - Too weak to chew - The United Nations calls Yemen the world's worst humanitarian crisis. The long-impoverished country has been crippled by a blockade, economic collapse and the war between Iran-backed rebels and government forces propped up by a Saudi-led coalition. Khokha hospital is located just 100 kilometres -- a two-hour drive -- south of port city Hodeida, the target of a pro-government offensive against Yemen's Huthi rebels which has sparked fears of a fresh humanitarian collapse. The hospital serves as the main facility for health services in the district, home to 30,000 people, as well as Yemenis in neighbouring areas. And every day, without fail, new cases of acutely malnourished children turn up for the doctors to treat. Inside the hospital, staff work around the clock, weighing children, taking measurements and injecting nutrients for those too weak to chew. One-year-old Yahia weighs in at 5.5 kilograms (12 pounds) -- nearly half the average weight of children his age. As the baby waits for emergency treatment, he cries inconsolably in his mother's arms. - 'Appeal to everyone' - Cartoon characters adorn the walls of one hospital room that is painted pink and blue. Three mothers wearing niqabs, a veil that covers the face, sit on beds with their malnourished babies. "We receive a large number of cases regularly, most of them suffering severe malnutrition," says hospital director Yahia Zuheir. But the hospital's seven rooms "are not enough to meet demand". "We appeal to everyone... to intervene urgently," Zuheir says. UN agencies say half of Yemen's population of more than 28 million is at risk of starvation. Twenty-two million Yemenis are dependent on aid for basic survival, the world body says, and the battle for Hodeida threatens to close the country's most important port. Yemen's airspace and maritime borders are controlled by the Saudi-led alliance, which accuses the Huthi rebels of smuggling arms from Iran through the country's ports. According to UN figures, nearly 10,000 people have been killed since Saudi Arabia and its allies joined the conflict in 2015 to bolster the government against the Huthis. After multiple failed rounds of negotiations between the warring parties, the UN aims to host peace talks in Sweden this month. Yemeni mother Nadia Nahari holds her five-year-old son who is suffering from severe malnutrition The war has pushed 14 million Yemenis to the brink of starvation Kokha hospital receives supplies and aid from the United Nations and donors including the United Arab Emirates According to UN figures, nearly 10,000 people have been killed since Saudi Arabia and its allies joined the conflict in 2015 to bolster the government against the HuthisAUBURN  Holiday shopping was a success at this year's 45th Holiday Craft Fair at Cayuga County Community College.

Over 150 vendors from the Northeast pitched tables, claiming the space in CCC's main entrance, gym and student lounge for the weekend

An especially hearty turnout stopped by the fair Saturday. Ginny Kent, associate director of development and director of alumni affairs for the Cayuga Community College Foundation, said she couldn't see the table across the aisle because there were so many people.

Live music and food trucks  additions to this year's fair  also welcomed craft lovers.

"I think having the food trucks here is a great idea," said Ted Howles of Auburn, one of Sunday's visitors. "Maybe next year there will be more."

Ornaments, wreaths and other holiday essentials left the fair in light of the holidays approaching.

Carrying a stocking and a wreath, Nora Schmitt, of Weedsport, said she was waiting for the fair before she did the rest of her big shopping.

"I know there's always good finds here. I'd rather get a few things at places like these than going to the store," Schmitt said.

Sale proceeds from the fair support the Cayuga Community College Foundation's work for students, staff and faculty.

Staff writer Dan Orzechowski can be reached at (315) 282-2239 or dan.orzechowski@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @OrzechowskiDan

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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.Tumblr, the social media platform founded in 2007 that has long provided a safe haven for porn fans, and people who share their own homemade porn content, will be porn-friendly no longer. The change starts on December 17, according to a statement by Tumblr CEO Jeff DOnofrio issued Monday titled A better, more positive Tumblr.

Posts that contain adult content will no longer be allowed on Tumblr, and weve updated our Community Guidelines to reflect this policy change, DOnofrio wrote. We recognize Tumblr is also a place to speak freely about topics like art, sex positivity, your relationships, your sexuality, and your personal journey. We want to make sure that we continue to foster this type of diversity of expression in the community, so our new policy strives to strike a balance.

But Free Speech Coalition Executive Director Eric Paul Leue called the Tumblr announcement "extremely concerning."

"Corporations have become the arbiters of free speech, deciding with their shareholders what is and isnt acceptable," Leue wrote on his Twitter account. "Sexual health content will get wrapped into this."

The new policy appears to define adult content as "photos, videos, or GIFs that show real-life human genitals or female-presenting nipples, and any contentincluding photos, videos, GIFs and illustrationsthat depicts sex acts."

The new blanket ban on porn or any images of real-life human genitals apparently comes in response to the sudden deletion of Tumblrs app from the Apple iTunes store just last month, a removal that happened because illegal images of children were slipping through the apps content filters, according to a report by Apple Insider.

But while the company said that it had been working on a fix to the content filter that would stop the illegal images from being upload to the microblogging platform, Tumblr finally took the step of simply issuing a blanket ban on all porn.

The country of Indonesia, a predominantly Muslim country of 260 million, banned Tumblr in 2016 over the platforms liberal approach to porn. In 2017 the platform added a safe mode, making it harder for users to access adult material on the site, according to Engadget.

Posts that include nudity in the context of breastfeeding or as part of erotic art or newsworthy events will continue to be permitted by Tumblr, though the company has not made clear how its automatic content filtering tools will determine what counts as newsworthy or art.

"We know there will be mistakes, but we've done our best to create and enforce a policy that acknowledges the breadth of expression we see in the community, the companys statement said.

Users whose previously posted adult content is removed by Tumblr will be allowed to appeal the deletions, according to the company.

Photo by Today Testing / Wikimedia CommonsAn open letter to Michelle Dunne

Ms. Dunne,

In a long-winded 2800-word article, you continue your deliberate and calculated smearing of Egypt, its military, judicial system, leader, and authorities. You also continue your indiscriminate deeply faulted assumptions on what is happening in Egypt.

The criticism had started even before you were barred from entering Egypt. In fact, your bashing style then, and now, is behind why you were refused entry. Lets start at that phase.

In all your writings and interviews, you ignored the will and wishes of the masses on June 30th. You then told yourself, Thats it. A military coup is underway. Egypts democratic opening might very well be over, when, in the eyes of Egyptians, their regaining of Egypt was the most democratic of all eventualities.

You never once mentioned the chaos and the partisanship that the Muslim Brotherhood created when you know that the Muslim Brotherhood did and is still doing its best to regain power. You assumed, better yet, you hoped that the prospect for things to quiet down after June 30th was unlikely, when indeed, much to your annoyance, it did.

Even before the presidential election in 2014, you cast an element of doubt on its validity. You assumed that election rigging would be predominant. You made fun of the appreciation Egyptians had towards the military for ousting Morsi. You also said, With no democratic transition really underway, what are we to make of the upcoming presidential vote? Is it a total sham, a mirage from start to finish? And Will Egyptians really be able to cast their votes freely? You concluded emphatically that the situation doesnt allow much room for hope.

This is a miniscule of how you think of Egypt. Then you wonder why you were asked not to enter Egypt.

Since then, your original animosity to Egypt has turned into a fierce vendetta. Not only do you intentionally instill doubt, fear, and suspicion in Egyptians, but you also spoke before the US Congress demanding it stop aid to Egypt. You are actually on a mission to leave the worst impression of Egypt with the world.

I found your faulted assumptions offensive then, and they still are; and much to your chagrin, your hopes for a chaotic Egypt will not materialize.

The above is a preface to your article on November 27th, 2018, in the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace titled, Sisi builds a green zone for Egypt, where you have managed to find every fault in the book with the New Capital.

You start off by saying that the New Capital is where Sisi will rule indefinitely behind a security cordon, and the echoing emptiness at the Capital today symbolizes the fact that most Egyptian citizens have no place in Sisis vision.

The hideous insinuations you draw on are farcical and illusionary. You assume that President Sisi will remain president forever, which is a fabrication on your part, but more importantly, you imply that Egyptians are disregarded in the large scheme of things.

You refuse to see the effort made to improve the lives of Egyptians. When two million Egyptians are cured from Hepatitis C in two years free of charge, how many families lives wouldve improved? When a massive road network is built to connect dozens of new cities to have millions of Egyptians move from congested cities, isnt this one way of improving lives? When thousands of new apartment buildings are erected to replace dilapidated falling down ones, do Egyptian citizens have no place in Sisis vision?

You also say that the New Capital will be a controlled-access city separating citizens from the state, again a bizarre assumption on your part since anyone and everyone can buy and live there.

As it happens, President El Sisi doesnt think of anyone but Egyptians. This may be why you fault him that much.

In a flashback to earlier times, you gloat as you cite how demonstrators burned down the headquarters of the National Democratic Party, ransacked state security offices as though these were brilliant efforts, but then Sisi brought the whole democratic experiment to a crashing halt with a military coup on July 3, 2013.

Ill sidetrack for a moment, Ms. Dunne. How do you feel about the anarchy that is about to engulf Europe, France and Belgium in particular? Are you enjoying the sights? Does it make you proud and wish for more? Well, we Egyptians werent proud of similar sights, and breathed a deep sigh of relief when Fridays became holidays again, when we could walk anywhere without hitting mayhem and mess.

You continue. You say that Sisi incarcerated 60,000 political prisoners from across the ideological spectrum, many of them subjected to torture, sexual abuse, dangerous overcrowding, and denial of routine care, assuming that anyone who played important roles in public life since mid-2000s and 2013 were either in prison or in exile abroad.

The first step in any objective journalistic effort is to verify, verify, and verify. None of what you state is validated or corroborated. In essence, it is built on sweeping generalization and shoddy journalistic tactics.

Had you mentioned that the majority of those imprisoned are members of the Muslim Brotherhood organization that initiates most of the terrorism in Egypt today, you wouldve sounded more authentic. Had you said that all those in exile reside in Qatar and Turkey, the two countries that continue to shield Muslim Brotherhood members, and had you mentioned the TV channels that continue to batter Egypt from abroad, I wouldve accepted your fallacies as partially true.

You say that those who chose to remain in the country have chosen to keep their heads and voices down. Just as a note; Egyptians dont keep their heads down. They stand straight and upright and hold their head high.

What you dont understand is that Egyptians are fed up of protests and demonstrations. They want to move on with their lives and improve them. Egyptians want to focus on working, feeding their children, and changing the morbid standstill situation that you want to recreate.

In the last little while, several imbeciles called on Egyptians to return to Tahrir and demonstrate, and the calls fell on deaf ears because Egyptians are wary of such calls.

Almost sadly, you say that the army has stopped fighting regional wars, as though this isnt a good thing. It is by the way. Then you continue; Sisi is reorienting Egypts economy to serve the interests of the army. It is as though the army is the soul winner of all endeavours; it is as though all projects of profound outcomes on the nation such as infrastructure, road network, renewable energy, and job creation is for the benefit of the army.

Had you mentioned the effort made to improve the economy rather than clamping on delusionary misconception, I wouldve accepted your words, so let me remind you that Egypt is on the right track, and the economical decisions implemented, though harsh, had to be taken to set Egypt on the right course. Like you, El Sisi is on a mission, too, but for a by far better cause: to get Egypt on track soon.

Your finding fault continues. According to you, the new Coptic Cathedral in the New Capital, built as the largest in the Middle East, is bad. Why? Because, one, Copts will be compelled to troop out to the New Capital, and, two, it will become a target for terrorists.

Your thinking is bizarre, Ms. Dunne. For once, Copts are given equal opportunities to shine in the bright limelight only for you to discredit the effort. And fear of terrorism will not stop us from building our country and improving it. Would you ask anyone else around the world to stop developing their cities just in case terrorists will target such improvements? I beg to differ; the new Cathedral is yet another opportunity for Copts to live side by side and equally with Muslims in Egypt.

According to you, foreign diplomats are being pressed to move to the new capital, that their safety may not be guaranteed elsewhere. Even if your sources confirm these fallacies, isnt it logical that the new capital would have better and more secured facilities?

The venom continues. Sisis regime bullying approach to diplomacy, led Foreign Minister, Sameh Shoukry, to threaten that Egypt would unleash a flood of migrants across the Mediterranean should European leaders not support Sisi.

I suggest you word it more succinctly and respectfully. Egypts efforts to curb the flow of migrants from its shores has been extremely successful as many European leaders have deemed. This requires vigilance, financial support, and will, so please dont belittle the effort made.

On another note, Sisis regime does not bully. In fact, this president has never slandered, defamed, or insulted even the worst enemies, so please stop embellishing stories or imagining them. We leave such rhetoric and such manners for other countries to utilize.

Ill stop here though your vindictive style continues for yet another few pages. I may pursue the rebuttal in a sequel later if my fury persists.

Ms. Dunne, stop going after Egypt. Let this vendetta be. It doesnt become a scholar like you.Tucker Carlson giving his insight into politics, governing and the media in March, 2012 at a NACo (National Association of Counties): Above. photo by Stan Deatherage

On Thursday, Washington Post media critic Erik Wemple attacked Fox News' Tucker Carlson as a "neo-Nazi favorite." To support this controversial contention, he cited research from BuzzFeed, which found that The Daily Stormer, a neo-Nazi website run by Andrew Anglin, featured articles about Carlson some 265 times, as opposed to 27 about Sean Hannity, four about Laura Ingraham, and two about Lou Dobbs. Wemple explained:Whereas a host like Hannity, for example, forever parrots Trump's talking points - the Robert S. Mueller III investigation is a "witch hunt"; the "fake news" media is out to get the president - Carlson has consistently pursued storylines and polemical themes that please racists. Carlson hypes alleged crimes and dislocation caused by immigration; he demands that U.S. elites defend the cliche that diversity is our greatest strength; he circulates bogus material about South Africa's alleged injustices against white farmers; and he cheers on Trump's hard-line immigration policies.... Anglin, who runs the site, has issued a number of boosterish statements about Carlson, including describing him as a "machine of ultimate destruction" and "a one-man HOLOCAUST!"This is pretty despicable stuff from Wemple. Instead of arguing with Carlson's opinions (which he doesn't), or convincingly linking them to neo-Nazism (which he can't), he doesn't even bother to make an argument: instead, he simply says that Andrew Anglin likes Carlson, so Carlson must be a neo-Nazi. This isn't even guilt by association. It's guilt by proxy. Carlson hasn't said anything remotely resembling neo-Nazism, so instead, Wemple and BuzzFeed just glom onto the fact that The Daily Stormer likes him.That's precisely what Carlson says when asked about such linkages: that just because he's popular and some bad people like him does not lead to a conclusion about the merit of his viewpoint. But according to Wemple, that response is insufficient:Wemple didn't like Carlson's answer. Therefore Carlson is a neo-Nazi fellow-traveler.This tactical dismissal of Carlson by proxy attack is not only logically insufficient and morally odious, it's wildly counterproductive. It's a way of lumping together those outside the normal range of conversation and those within it, thus shrinking the Overton Window even further. And unfortunately, it's becoming common practice for many on the political Left. Take, for example, this article about billionaire Marc Andreessen: he's labeled an alt-right fellow traveler because he visits the heterodox publication Quillette. Or take this idiotic study linking me with Richard Spencer through four degrees of separation.If you can't argue with ideas, smear popular people with those who follow them. It's an easy tactic. It's also dishonest, polarizing, and stupid.It's admittedly quite confusing to follow the machinations and complexities of the current round of updates regarding the Mueller special investigation on alleged 2016 campaign meddling by the Russian government. Still, an enormous amount of news has been breaking over the past 48 hours.So, let's try to separate the strands.On Thursday, Michael Cohen, President Trump's personal lawyer, pled guilty to lying to Congress about the Russian investigation in a plea deal with Robert Mueller. Cohen already pled guilty in a Southern District of New York case regarding alleged campaign finance violations in making payments to former Trump paramour Stormy Daniels earlier this year. According to ABC News, Cohen admitted he lied to Congress when he said that the Trump Organization's attempts to set up a Trump Tower in Moscow ended in January 2016. Cohen stated that he made the false statements "to be consistent with Individual 1's political messaging and to be loyal to Individual 1," presumably Trump. Cohen also admitted that the Moscow project was discussed all the way through June 2016, and that he communicated with the office of Vladimir Putin in January 2016. In September 2017, Cohen had explained that he "had nothing to do with any Russian involvement in our electoral process," and "never saw anything - not a hint of anything - that demonstrated [Trump's] involvement in Russian interference in our election or any other form of Russian collusion." Trump, for his part, denies working on the Moscow deal, stating, "That was a project that we didn't do, I didn't do. That was a project that wasn't done for a lot of reasons ... I was focused on running for president. I wanted that to be my primary focus. Not running or building a building." Ongoing business relationships with Russia, it should be pointed out, does not amount to collusion to affect an election outcome.According to The Washington Post, infamous dirty trickster and Trump confidante Roger Stone spoke routinely with President Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign. Stone was also corresponding with conspiracy theorist and Trump friend Jerome Corsi, who had told Stone that he heard WikiLeaks, a Russian front organization, was planning to release "very damaging" material regarding Hillary Clinton and John Podesta. Stone reached out to Corsi during the campaign, emailing, "Get to (Assange) (a)t Ecaudorian Embassy in London and get the pending emails...they deal with the Foundation, allegedly." Stone went on Twitter and claimed that it would soon be Podesta's "time in the box." Stone denies that any of his email conversations with Corsi came up with Trump, explaining, "I am able to say we never discussed WikiLeaks. I'm not sure what I would have said to him anyway because it's all speculation. I just didn't know if it's true or not."Prosecutors now say that the plea arrangement with former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort has fallen apart. Manafort pled guilty earlier this year to crimes in connection with lobbying on behalf of a foreign government and avoiding taxes; that plea deal was contingent on him giving Mueller useful information. Now Mueller says Manafort lied to him. Furthermore, Manafort's lawyers have been coordinating with Trump's lawyers. This may, according to former prosecutor Ken White, open up to scrutiny conversations between Trump's lawyers and Manafort's, if Manafort's plea agreement contained a provision destroying any joint defense agreement.So, what does all of this mean? The original accusation was that Trump colluded with the Russian government to affect the election. That accusation has narrowed to the accusation that Trump coordinated with WikiLeaks to weaponize Hillary Clinton's emails. To that end, the story about Roger Stone is the most damaging - and there are a few more dots that must be connected. We don't know what Manafort told Mueller - and by the looks of it, it isn't much, or Mueller would be happier with him. What of Trump's business relationships with Russia? Mueller would presumably have to show a quid pro quo here - and that will be a lot harder to prove, although Trump's constant refrain that he didn't do business with Russia looks more suspicious if Cohen isn't lying.The speculation has been rampant that President Trump will pardon Manafort, Corsi, or Stone. That would look a lot like obstruction of justice - an overt attempt to hinder an ongoing investigation. Also, as Ken White explains, if Cohen isn't lying, "The conclusion that the President of the United States knew that his personal counsel was repeatedly lying to the Congress of the United States about the President's business is inescapable under these circumstances." But all of this has yet to be proven - and Trump knowing about his personal attorney's lies doesn't mean that Trump was responsible for those lies, either.German French English

MCH Group updates its forecast for 2018

The MCH Group has updated its projection for the 2018 financial result. It expects a negative result prior to special measures of at least CHF 14 million. The prime reasons for the deterioration in the expected result compared with the forecast made in September 2018 are declines in the consumer fairs of Zuspa and Comptoir Suisse and the final accounts for Grand Basel, which are further below the expectations.

In the context of the restructuring and transformation process that has been launched, the MCH Group is expecting provisions for restructuring costs in the range of CHF 30  40 million in the 2018 financial year. These provisions are planned primarily for structural measures and organisational optimisations.

As announced at the beginning of September, the MCH Group also has to undertake further special depreciations for the value impairment of the exhibition halls in Basel in a three-digit million range.

The negative 2018 financial result prior to special measures is due first and foremost to the declines in Baselworld, the launch of Grand Basel and a further downward trend in the national exhibition and event business  namely for the general consumer fairs. By contrast to this, Swissbau, Art Basel and Masterpiece London were highly successful and were able to further strengthen their position. The MCH Group also registered a positive development in the "Live Marketing Solutions" division in 2018.

At the start of November, the MCH Group announced how it was approaching the necessary stabilisation and transformation of the company. In addition to the savings measures already introduced, it has launched further measures aimed at reducing costs, focusing the strategic initiatives and investments and streamlining the organisation.





Media release online: https://www.mch-group.com/en-US/news/medienmitteilungen.aspx



Media contact:



MCH Group Ltd.

Corporate Communications

Christian Jecker

+41 58 206 22 52

christian.jecker@mch-group.com







AttachmentHere is a 16" x 20" oil painting of the corner of Dauphine and Spain, in the Marigny, New Orleans completed on site. I did this to capture the contrast of warm and cool light.

The best way to easily see most of my paintings for sale is to go to my Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/bill.ives2 - and look at Photos and albums within Photos. I have three photo albums covering my art. One is for discounted pairings under $100. The other is for most of the rest (over $100). The third is for paintings that I have either sold or ones that are not for sale. However, if anyone is interested in them I will paint another version for them on commission. I will ship anywhere and have shipped art works as far as Australia.

In New Orleans there are currently paintings hanging at two of my favorite New Orleans restaurants. One is Riccobono's Panola Street Cafe. Here is a post describing the showing at Riccobono's. It is located at 7801 Panola Street (504 314-1810). You can also contact me to see more of them. You can also find my work at the Salvadorian restaurant, La Macarena located at 8120 Hampson St, New Orleans, just off Carrolton Ave. at Riverbend. Here is a post on it: New Paintings Are for Sale at La Macarena, New Orleans.

My paintings are also for sale at the Community Commitment Center on Leonidas and Spruce. Part of the center is Stella's Cafe seen below where you can get delicious drinks and food for very reasonable prices. The proceeds go to support the excellent work of Community Commitment Center, run by Nicole Bouie, as do a portion of the sales of the paintings. The center provides classes for children and adults and other programs including a summer camp. Here is post on the show - Paintings for Sale at Community Commitment Center New Orleans.

There are also two paintings as part of the permanent collection at Red Gravy, a wonderful downtown Italian restaurant at 125 Camp Street. (504) 561-8844. Here is a post about them: Red Gravy: Great New Orleans Brunch. Our friend, Spider Murphy, plays banjo at their weekend brunches.English Norwegian

Press Release

(Oslo, 03 December 2018) Schibsted, a global family of digital consumer brands leading the way across media, online marketplaces and technology ventures, today welcomes Skogen Lund as its new Chief Executive Officer.

"Schibsted is deeply embedded in the daily lives of consumers in the Nordic region, and has an increasingly important role in society. The many talented people and Schibsted`s willingness and ability to continuously innovate, to offer the best content and services, is why I am humble and proud to take on this role," says Skogen Lund and adds; "Creating a leading digital Nordic powerhouse, in one of the most tech savvy regions of the world will be challenging, but something I am confident we can achieve."

In September, the Board of Directors at Schibsted ASA announced that the company`s Marketplaces operations outside of the Nordics will be spun off and established as an independent, listed company (currently named Marketplace International/MPI). Schibsted will continue to be a company of leading digital consumer brands in the Nordics, comprising our media houses and growth companies in Norway and Sweden as well as the marketplaces FINN, Blocket, and Tori.

Combining forces in the Nordics

Kristin Skogen Lund has worked for Schibsted for twelve years until 2010 when she became EVP at Telenor with the responsibility for Telenor Nordic, a business with a turnover of EUR 6 billion. She was an important contributor to Telenor's digital transformation, initiating and leading Telenor Digital Services. For the last six years, she has been a skillful and prominent leader of the Norwegian Business Confederation of Enterprise. During this period, she also served on the Board of Ericsson, the Swedish technology company.

"Schibsted will continue to deepen its customer relationships through leading consumer brands and leverage its ability to collect and process data to develop its consumer and advertising offerings. We will build on the combined forces of FINN/Blocket/Tori, personal finance-assets like Lendo, and the publishing activities, and believe developing these assets closely coordinated is the best way to maximize the potential of each one of them," she adds and continues; "As an integral part of this move, Schibsted`s dedication to develop independent and trusted editorial content will be stronger than ever."



Ryssdal stays on as CEO for MPI (Marketplaces International)

Rolv Erik Ryssdal, CEO of Schibsted Media Group since 2009, continues as CEO for the new company MPI, that will be a publicly listed stand-alone company. First day of trading targeted in April 2019. Schibsted plans to retain a 60 percent ownership in MPI at the time of the listing, after selling down up to five percent in the market and distributing 35 percent of the MPI shares to Schibsted's shareholders.





Contact information:



For the media:

Nathalie Kavin, Director of Communications. Schibsted Media Group, Tel: +47 934 01 363, e-mail: nathalie.kavin@schibsted.com



For investors/analysts:

Jo Christian Steigedal, VP Head of IR, Schibsted Media Group, Tel: +47 415 08 733, email: jcs@schibsted.com



About Schibsted

Schibsted Media Group is an international media group with 8000 employees in 22 countries. 200 million people around the world interact with Schibsted's popular digital services through our media houses, our digital marketplaces and our growth companies. In 2019, our Marketplaces operations outside of the Nordics will be spun off and established as an independent, listed company. Schibsted will continue to be a company of leading digital consumer brands with footprint in the Nordics. For more information, check out our website www.schibsted.com.Richmond, British Columbia, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tourism Richmond has won the Accor Hotels Marketing Campaign of the Year Award from The Canadian Tourism Awards, presented by the Toronto Star.

The awards recognize people, places, organizations and events that have gone above and beyond to offer a superior tourism experience to travelers in Canada. Tourism Richmonds Pacific. Authentic. Richmond, BC destination brand and marketing campaign launched in 2018.

The need for a new destination brand was clear. Capitalizing on our strengths  food, history, diversity and culture  gave us a new focus. Pacific. Authentic. really captures it all, said Nancy Small, CEO for Tourism Richmond.

The Pacific. Authentic. Richmond, BC destination brand came to life through stakeholder research sessions, interviews with industry and hundreds of visitor intercepts conducted in 2017. Inspired by the dynamic convergence of Pacific cultures and authentic Canadian coastal experiences, Tourism Richmond developed the Pacific. Authentic. destination brand to give the city a distinct image and visitors a compelling reason to visit.

Tourism Richmond answered the challenge with a variety of different creative pieces. Professional videography was shot and edited in a unique and authentic style to capture quick, intense moments. Still photography captured visuals emphasizing serenity and bliss. The resulting work encapsulated the emotional energy of the destination, focusing on the people, activities, adventures and moments combined to create Richmonds unique culture and beauty.

The region-defining campaign is an exploration of Richmonds activities and cultural influences, Small remarked. Tourism Richmond continues to work extensively to outline the innumerable activities available in the city and its truly exciting, because were only getting started.

See the Pacific. Authentic. Richmond, BC brand in action at www.visitrichmondbc.com.

-30-

About Tourism Richmond: Tourism Richmond is a non-profit destination marketing organization (DMO). The primary mandate of Tourism Richmond is to enhance awareness about the destination through sales and marketing initiatives and by providing excellent visitor and member services. Ultimately, the organizations goal is to increase economic activity related to tourism for the City of Richmond and all stakeholders. Tourism Richmond is British Columbias 4th largest DMO.

About the Canadian Tourism Awards: The Canadian Tourism Awards were established in 2003 to recognize success, leadership and innovation in Canada's tourism industry, and to honour those people,

places, organizations and events that have gone above and beyond to offer superior visitor experiences to travelers in Canada. Showcasing the nation's best tourism products, services and experiences, the Canadian Tourism Awards ceremony has become an annual highlight of the Tourism Congress, TIAC's annual convention.

About the Tourism Industry Association of Canada: The Tourism Industry Association of Canada is the only national organization representing the full cross-section of Canada's $91.6 billion tourism industry. TIAC's members include air and passenger rail services, airport authorities, local and provincial destination authorities, hotels, attractions and tour operators.

AttachmentsAustralia just passed into law one of the world's most censoring copyright law, which allows the country's media giants like Village Roadshow to use one-sided administrative process to get court orders to censor any website whose "primary effect" is infringement, then use those orders to force search engines to delist any site so blocked, and then recycle those orders to block for any site or service that "provides access" to a blocked site or service.



In other words, Village Roadshow can now censor any site it doesn't like, without the site's operators being present to argue their side, and then block search engines from displaying that site's contents, making it virtually impossible for everyday Australians to learn that the site has been blocked  and they get to block tools like VPNs that might allow people to get outside this censoring national firewall that they get to run.





The pricetag for this is a secret: thought Village Roadshow gave AUD1.2 million to pass the precursor to this bill, Village Roadshow refuses to say how much it spent in this cycle, and Australia's backwards election-spending transparency rules mean we won't find out for months, after this has faded from the news cycle (prior to this bill, Village Roadshow's all-time lobbying spend topped AUD6.7 million).



Village, one of the bill's key backers, refused to tell Guardian Australia how much it donated to the parties in the months leading up to debate. Australia's weak and sluggish donation disclosure requirements mean their contributions for 2017-18 will remain secret until at least February. The Queensland University of Technology intellectual property and innovation law expert Matthew Rimmer said that made it impossible for the public to tell how Village may have attempted to influence the process. "We should have real-time disclosure of donations," Rimmer, a critic of the bill, said. "We don't know at the moment whether Roadshow or other copyright owners contributed to the Coalition, ALP, Centre Alliance and the Greens. We don't know whether ISPs and search engines made political donations to try to stop the bill.



Village Roadshow donates millions to major parties while lobbying on piracy

[Christopher Knaus/The Guardian]

Forbes's Steven Salzberg rejects the claims of those who say that the House of Representatives will be made more responsive by increasing the number of reps to 593 (or so), this being the cube-root of the number of Americans, and this ratio being considered desirable by some political scientists.



The cube-root guideline may or may not work in less populous countries, but in the US, it yields a ratio of one rep per 550,000 represented people (the framers envisioned a 1 rep:30,000 people ratio, which would produce a gigantic Congress.

Instead, Salzberg proposes that each Congressional district should send two members to Congress, each casting a fractional vote proportional to the fraction of the electorate whose votes they won: if Rep Dingleberry (R) gets 20% of the votes, and Rep Cheetham (D) gets 80%, then Dingleberry casts 20% of an Aye vote, and Cheetham casts 80% of a Nay (or vice-versa).





This has a certain attractiveness to it: if you're one of the voters who casts a ballot for a loser who garners 30% of the vote, you still get represented in Congress.

But there are some obvious problems with this. Salzberg handwaves the idea of third-party candidates ("We could divide the single House vote proportionally among the top two vote-getters, ignoring the third parties" and possibly "States could also use ranked-choice voting to re-apportion the votes of the losing candidates"). The idea that there are only two possible political "sides" is viewed by many (including me) as a problem as great as the number of seats in Congress.

Also, Salzberg argues that this makes gerrymandering useless (because the fractional Congressional votes would add up to a "fair" apportionment), but I'm not convinced there isn't a way to gerrymander that would avoid this  if Congressional districts had significantly different populations, or populations of "likely voters," you could pack and crack your way to a very nonrepresentative outcome.

But still, it's a provocative and compelling idea, and as Salzberg says, "My system is perfectly legal, and Congress could create it with a simple bill, just as they increased the size of the House in the past. No Constitutional amendment is necessary."



Of course, this would make counting votes in the House a bit more complicated. The majority and minority whips wouldn't be able to simply count integers; instead, they'd have to add up the fractional votes of their 435 members. But why should we limit ourselves to a voting system that only uses first grade math? In the U.S., fractions and decimals are covered by the fourth grade. I think Congress can handle that. There. I've now fixed our democracy. Time to get back to science.

The Problem With Our Democracy Isn't Gerrymandering. It's Integers [Steven Salzberg/Forbes]High ranking German government officials were outed this year for secretly supplying advice and assistance to the xenophobic, violent, far-right extremist Alternative For Germany (AfD) party.

Now, information about the party's secret financial backers is emerging: according to sworn affidavits reviewed by Spiegel, the party has long been backed by reclusive billionaire August von Finck through his trusted lieutenant Ernst Knut Stahl, who, in 2017, courted a publisher with an offer to work on a new anti-Merkel newspaper called Deutschland Kurier, aimed at countering the influence of "a street in New York with lots of investment bankers, lawyers and so forththey are all JewsThey control everything. Merkel and also Ralf Stegner from the SPD."

Deutschland Kurier is now a going concern, and hundreds of thousands of copies of it were mailed to voters in the runup to the last German federal elections, warning of "exploding migrant crime" and briefing against Merkel, while throwing heavy support behind AfD.

The Kurier's parent organization is the "Association for the Preservation of the Rule of Law and Citizen Freedoms," whose PAC has provided generous support to the AfD  at least 10,000,000 worth of posters, and free newspapers.





AfD won seats in all 16 German state Parliaments in that election.

The AfD campaigns as an anti-establishment party that says it rejects corporate money and calls for restrictions on big money donations in politics, and accuses the established parties of being creatures of "big money."

The revelations about Stahl and von Finck's possible financial links to AfD come amidst a scandal about huge pools of dark money flowing into AfD campaign coffers through dodgy Swiss bank accounts and cutout "foundations" in the Netherlands.

Secret money is critical to the establishment of autocracy and the weakening of democracy. Democracies depend on good knowledge about how everyone feels, which tells you whether a given political compromise reflects a good-faith effort to broker a deal that everyone can live with. Autocracies rely on confusion about the true political views in a society: if you don't know that other people feel as discontented with the ruling elites as you do, you feel isolated and helpless. That's why autocrats spend so much effort propping up astroturf groups (including groups that oppose them, at least in Russia): the harder it is to sort genuine grassroots movements from dark-money funded sock-puppets, the harder it is to figure out whether you sense that everything is fucked up is legitimate or just a personal delusion.





As wealth inequality worsens and billionaires have to go to further and further lengths to keep reforms at bay, expect more of this kind of thing. Extremist, violent nativist movements aren't a natural outgrowth of a shift in sentiment: rather, they represent the cynical manipulation of disaffected, frightened, angry people by the billionaire class who see them as disavowable brownshirts to roil the political arena and keep change at bay.



But now, this party that claims to be so squeaky-clean finds itself neck deep in a debate about its corruptibility. The beginning of that debate came two weeks ago, with revelations from the reporting network made up of the two public broadcasters NDR and WDR along with the influential German daily S uddeutsche Zeitung. The media outlets reported on a large donor in Switzerland who had sent significant amounts of money to the local AfD chapter in Alice Weidel's electoral district on Lake Constance in southwestern Germany. Additional reports soon followed about support for Weidel from a dubious foundation in the Netherlands. Prosecutors in Konstanz have since launched an investigation into Weidel and three other AfD members to determine if party finance laws were broken. More recently, there have been new revelations that a confidante of Weidel's was in close touch with David Bendels, head of the pro-AfD group Association for the Preservation of the Rule of Law and Citizen Freedoms. The reporting by WOZ and DER SPIEGEL now make it clear that Weidel's apparent network is not an exception in the party. There are plenty of indicators that the party has been dependent on the beneficence of wealthy donors from the very beginning. The AfD is aware of how dangerous the revelations are for the party, and nerves are raw. That was on full display in the most recent general debate in the German parliament, with floor leader Alice Weidel stepping up to the microphone to hold a fiery speech. But it wasn't an invective against government policy. Instead, she held a monologue about the donation affairs that other parties have fallen victim to over the years. The AfD, Weidel insisted, had "not tried to cover anything up," adding that careful records had been kept about all AfD bank accounts. "No suitcases full of money were carried back and forth about whose whereabouts nobody can, or wants to, remember," she said, a reference to the party donation scandal that shook the CDU at the end of Chancellor Helmut Kohl's tenure and about which he remained silent until the end of his life. At the conclusion of her speech, Weidel said: "We don't need any moral expostulations from you!" Really?



A Billionaire Backer and the Murky Finances of the AfD [Melanie Amann, Sven Becker and Sven Robel/Der Spiegel]

Later this week, China plans to launch its Chang'e-4 spacecraft to the far side of the lunar surface. The aim is to land a rover on the dark side of the moon for the first time. Blocked from direct communication with the Earth, the lander and rover will depend on China's Queqiao communication satellite launched in May. From Scientific American:



The lander will also conduct the first radio astronomy experiments from the far side of the Moonand the first investigations to see whether plants will grow in the low-gravity lunar environment



The ultimate goal of the China National Space Administration (CNSA) is to create a Moon base for future human exploration there, although it has not announced when that might happen.



One of (the experiments) will test whether potato and thale-cress (Arabidopsis) seeds sprout and photosynthesize in a sealed, climate-controlled environment in the low gravity on the lunar surface.





"When we take the step towards long-term human habitation on the Moon or Mars, we will need greenhouse facilities to support us, and will need to live in something like a biosphere," says Anna-Lisa Paul, a horticultural scientist at the University of Florida in Gainesville."For God's sake, fund it as a mainline program. Don't put it in yet another competition with science," Russell "Rusty" Schweickart insisted. "This is a public safety program."

While some elements of the US government seek to establish the "Space Force," one former Apollo astronaut believes an asteroid spotting telescope is what we need.

Business Insider:Peter Brown was born in Philly, but he made the mistake of visiting Jamaica for one day, years ago on a cruise. But that gave U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Sheriff of Monroe County, Florida a good enough reason to detain Brown and attempt to deport him to Jamaica, even though he has never lived there and doesn't know a single person there.

From Mr Brown's lawsuit, as reported in CNN:

"Despite his repeated protests to multiple jail officers, his offer to produce proof, and the jail's own records, the Sheriff's Office held Mr. Brown so that ICE could deport him to Jamaica  a country where he has never lived and knows no one," the lawsuit says. The Sheriff's Office ignored all the indications that it was illegally detaining Mr. Brown. It did nothing to investigate his citizenship. It did not contact ICE to pass along this urgent information, or ask for a review of Mr. Brown's files. It did not seek any further information from Mr. Brown or anyone else. It simply held Mr. Brown, in violation of his constitutional rights and after he was entitled to release under state law, so that he could be picked up by ICE and deported from the country."

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office and ICE couldn't be bothered to comment on the case. They are probably too busy rounding up people born in Cleveland and shipping them off to Haiti.

Image: Shutterstock/Jonathan WeissThere's a lot of controversy surrounding the use of police body cameras. Some privacy advocates argue that the video captured by the always-on cameras has little effect on the behavior of police officers : the statistics surrounding use of force and citizen complaints barely budged before and after the tech was introduced. The police don't much care for them either. The NYPD's police union, for example, says that the footage captured by a body cam shouldn't be able to be used in open court as it could be considered to be part of a police officer's personnel record, which is protected from public disclosure. Then there's the middle ground: by having cops wear body cams while on duty, provided they're not covering them or turning them off during an incident, they're being held accountable for every action they take.

No matter where you sit on this spectrum, it's likely safe to say that using the tech to capture video of someone's ass and balls is likely not a great idea.

From The New York Daily News:

An NYPD detective has been suspended for using another cop's body camera to shoot an X-rated video of his privates, the Daily News has learned. Detective Specialist Raymond Williams, a neighborhood coordination officer at the 79th Precinct, was suspended Thursday, law enforcement sources said. Williams waited until unsuspecting cop Michael Devonish  another neighborhood coordination officer  went to the men's room in their Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, stationhouse before he snatched Devonish's body camera and put it to anatomical abuse.

Apparently, Williams thought it would be hilarious to film his junk, including a quick on-screen massage of his penis for Devonish to find. Devonish didn't report the footage once he discovered it.

But you know what? An employee working for the NYPD's Legal bureau did. She spotting it while conducting a routine review of body cam footage near the end of November. A complaint was sent up the ladder, eventually ending up in the lap of the NYPD's Internal Affairs Bureau. According to a departmental source, the 32 seconds of ill-advised video that Detective Williams shot cost him his Police ID, badge and department-issued weapons: he's on suspension until the conclusion of the Internal Affairs investigation.

Image by Ryan Johnson  https://www.flickr.com/photos/northcharleston/25763393046, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=52373022, CC BY-SA 2.0, LinkWhen Rudy Giuliani went to Twitter over the weekend to whine about the Mueller investigation, he somehow, accidentally, created a website link in his post.

Mueller filed an indictment just as the President left for https://t.co/8ZNrQ6X29a July he indicted the Russians who will never come here just before he left for Helsinki.Either could have been done earlier or later. Out of control!Supervision please?  Rudy Giuliani (@RudyGiuliani) November 30, 2018

And of course a prankster couldn't help but have some fun with it, creating this simple but spot-on message about Trump that people reading Giuliani's tweet would be linked to:

Via Daily Kos:

On a more serious note, it remains a mystery as to why Donald Trump would name Rudy Giuliani to a cybersecurity role, a job he is most assuredly unqualified to hold, especially in light of the serious, dangerous hacking efforts of Russia, China and other foreign agents. Roughly eight months after Trump named Giuliani to the job, the cyber security wonks at cyberscoop noted the advisory committee was doing nothing at all. Giuliani's so-called "cyber working group," a vague advisory committee officially announced by Trump's presidential transition team in early January, is rarely in contact with White House staff. It is absent and disconnected from significant decisions, said a U.S. official with knowledge of White House affairs who spoke to CyberScoop on condition of anonymity. The source, like others in this story, declined to speak on the record citing the potential for blowback from Giuliani's allies in government. "From what I saw, it didn't exist," said one former senior U.S. official. Here was Rudy touting his role as the chief cyber connector between Silicon Valley and the White House back in January 2017.

EXCLUSIVE: Rudy Giuliani announces he's forming a cyber security group on behalf of Trump administration pic.twitter.com/LC20pYW02d  FOX & friends (@foxandfriends) January 12, 2017

Image: Marc Nozell/FlickrRicky Jay  magician, sleight-of-hand artist extraordinaire, actor, author, scholar of weirdness and oddities, Guinness award winner for throwing playing cards  passed away on November 24th at age 72.

Ricky Jay's life and legacy have been dutifully celebrated in the feature documentary Deceptive Practice, an enduring 1993 profile in The New Yorker, and lately by David Mamet's eulogy. The man indeed left a dent in the magic community.

A personal note should say enough for my love of this man's work. I have only one object hanging on my studio walls: an original print of Ricky Jay's book cover "Cards as Weapons."

I was a teenage kid when I stumbled upon the card-magic bible "The Expert At The Card Table" by S.W.Erdnase. This book became an obsession of mine for a few years; eventually I translated and published the work in my native Italian. One day I got my paws on a VHS tape of a man who took Erdnase's century-old presentation "The Exclusive Coterie" and brought it back to life  with humor, a charming style, and a never-before-seen flair. I was completely enraptured. That performance set the bar for artistry and excellence for years to come.

Ricky Jay's long time friend, collaborator and co-conspirator Michael Weber said, "The real mark of an artist is not becoming known as the finest exponent of their art. It's when the only way to describe what they do is to name them."

Well, Ricky Jay's name is set in stone: an artist in a league by himself.

Image: by David Shankbone  David Shankbone, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Command Alkon , the global leader in integrated supply chain technology solutions for the Heavy Building Materials industry, is pleased to announce the launch of new customer-focused, mobile-friendly websites for our Latin American customers and partners.



We are thrilled to debut our new websites to audiences across Latin America who are looking to understand evolving industry practices and assess the breadth of best-in-class technology solutions available for the heavy building materials industry, said Lori Allen, Solutions Marketing Manager at Command Alkon. This digital experience redesign further demonstrates our commitment to be the most trusted partner in helping leaders achieve optimal results.

The redesigned websites provide a dynamic user experience, with navigation organized around customers most pressing business and technology issues. Spanish is available at latam.commandalkon.com and Portuguese at brazil.commandalkon.com.

Mastery by Command Alkon, the heavy building materials resource hub for industry knowledge, is available on each site. Daily information updates are made; including customer accomplishments, company products, and events as well as industry developments and news. Visitors are encouraged to explore the new website and keep up with Command Alkon on LinkedIn and Facebook .

ABOUT COMMAND ALKON

At Command Alkon, we believe in building an amazing world with solutions that deliver automation, visibility, collaboration and simplification to the Heavy Building Materials industry. Our integrated, digital supply chain solutions create an ecosystem for producers, suppliers and haulers of ready-mixed concrete, aggregates, asphalt, cement, and manufactured concrete, where operational transparency and efficiency drive profits. For over 40 years, our people, software and automation have kept clients moving to build the things that matter. Command Alkon is headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama and has offices in locations around the globe. For more information, visit commandalkon.com .

For More Information, Contact:

Becky Boyd

MediaFirst PR

(770) 642-2080 x 214

becky@mediafirst.net

Karli Langner

Command Alkon

(205) 879-3282 x 3968

klangner@commandalkon.comIf you want an example of how big of a problem Chinese espionage is, you needn't look any further than the warnings that Canada and the United States have been throwing at corporations and governmental organizations about the use of gear built by tech companies with ties to the Chinese government.

Apparently, the issue extends beyond the use of smartphones and cellular networking hardware built by Huawei and ZTE: the US Government is thinking about conducting deep background checks on Chinese nationals coming to the United States in pursuit of their education. Spies! They're everywhere!

From IntelNews.Org:

the Trump administration is reportedly considering the possibility of imposing deeper background checks and additional vetting on all Chinese nationals wishing to study in the US. Citing "a US official and three congressional and university sources", Reuters said on Thursday that the measures would apply to all Chinese students wishing to register in undergraduate and graduate academic programs in the US. The news agency quoted a "senior US official" as saying that "no Chinese student who's coming [to the US] is untethered from the state [. They all have] to go through a party and government approval process". Reuters reported that the proposed plan includes a comprehensive examination of the applicants' phone records and their presence on social media platforms. The goal would be to verify that the applicants are not connected with Chinese government agencies. As part of the proposed plan, US law enforcement and intelligence agencies would provide counterintelligence training to university officials.

The big question is whether this additional vetting is warranted or if it's just another way to keep foreign nationals that the Trump Administration doesn't fancy out of the United States. The smaller question: how much money would the loss of the thousands of Chinese students who look to American universities each year translate into? Would universities rally against the federal government to bring the ban to a halt?

Image by Daderot  Own work, Public Domain, LinkWhat a week! Mzansi got excited as AKA and Zinhle was yet again seen together, without little Kairo, a student received a new car as reward for studying hard, we were stunned by Uzalos Nokuthula's stunning coming-of-age pics, a man calmly faced his wife's lover, and HHP's ex passed away.

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1. Awesome pics of Uzalos Nokuthula Mabika celebrating her coming of age

Nokuthula, also knows as Thobile in the TV series Uzalo, recently shared photos of her coming of age ceremony and she looked gorgeous.

The young lady was surrounded by her friends and her family as she took part in the ceremony, which was held in Ndumo in KwaZulu-Natal. She looked stunning in her ceremonial wear, and was absolutely glowing with happiness.

Nokuthula was happy to share the experience with her fans and said it was surreal.

2. Student gifted brand new whip for her upcoming graduation as a doctor

Thato Mosehle will be graduating as a doctor from the University of Free State on 6 December and her parents gifted her a brand new car as a reward for her hard work.

Thato's Facebook friends praised her for the achievement. The student, from the North West, shared photos of herself posing next to her Hyundai hatchback on Facebook. Her parents, who had apparently gifted her the car, also appeared in the heartwarming snaps.

As Briefly.co.za earlier reported, 23-year-old Thato is among 7 friends who overcame a host of challenges during their studies. She and her friends are keen to make a difference in South Africa's health system. They said they are prepared to work long hours in public hospitals and to be role models.

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3. Viral video shows man catching wife red-handed in bed with student

Few men will react as calmly as this Zambian man who caught his wife in bed with a student. According to reports, the man caught his wife, who also is a student, romancing with a male student at her dormitory in Solwezi, the capital of the North-Western Province of Zambia.

A video, which has gone viral, saw the student crying while the well-built man stood calmly as he questioned him.

What was more shocking about the entire incident, was the adulterous woman. As if she is lifeless, she was seen lying on the bed unconcerned, appearing to have absolutely nothing to do with the scandal.

READ ALSO: Shona Fergusons sweet message to Connie: 'You still give me butterflies'

4. Could it be? AKA and Zinhle spotted together in the Mother City

AKA and Zinhle have been spotted together in Cape Town, where they are reportedly on holiday, together, and their daughter is nowhere to be seen.

They were seen together on AKA's Insta feed and they can't use the co-parenting excuse on this one. Could this really mean what we are all thinking? There have been multiple times this year where AKA and Zinhle have gotten our hopes up of them getting back together. However, nothing ever came of it. So, when we see things like this, we have to protect our peace.

No comment from the two yet...

5. HHP's baby momma, Lerato Khanye's alleged cause of death revealed

Lerato Khanye's death has come as a shock to many South Africans, and came only a month after the sudden passing of HHP. Their son, Leano, has been left with no parents.

It has come to light that Lerato passed away at the Helen Joseph hospital on 26 November due to natural causes, according to a Sowetan Live source.

The source told the publication that she had been ill for some time. When the news surfaced, the family was not willing to give any information. They just wanted their privacy to be respected. Leano is receiving counselling and was taking some time off from school to process everything.

Enjoyed reading our story? Download BRIEFLY's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major South African news!

Source: Briefly.co.zaAn Argentinian young barber is a "cut above the rest" as he gives amazing, intricate haircuts despite being born without both his hands. Gabriel is truly an inspiration that goes to show that by staying strong, a person can really do anything.

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If you want to be a successful barber, you need to be precise. One mistake and your clients will leave, fuming, and never return.

Gabriel Heredia knows this all too well, he grew up with a mom who did hair for a living. But she never expected that he would follow in her footsteps. He doesn't have hands, after all!

However, Gabriel did not let his 'disability' stop him from becoming a highly successful barber.

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Gabriel's dexterity is better than that of many barbers with two hands and ten fingers, and he has become very popular thanks to his talents.

The young barber says support from his family and friends is what kept him motivated, but we know his own inner strength played a big role as well.

For Gabriel, it has gone from a hobby to a passion. He is grateful for how he was born because having no hands has taught him to live without limits.

What an inspiring young man!

READ ALSO: Man reminds SA what Ubuntu looks like by reaching out to fellow South African

Enjoyed reading our story? Download BRIEFLY's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major South African news!

Source: Briefly.co.za- South African businessman and billionaire, Patrice Motsepe, has promised to donate R3.5 billion towards the country's land reform issues

- Motsepe made this promise at the Global Citizen Festival, where millions were pledged to various causes

- The millionaire wishes to help the process of land reform and give hope to the rainbow nation

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SA billionaire, Patrice Motsepe, has pledged to donate a whopping R3.5 billion towards the country's land reform goals.

The money will go towards sustainable development and the issue of land reform. Motsepe made the promise at FNB Stadium during the Global Citizen Festival.

This comes after millions have been pledged for various causes during the festival, as reported on by The Citizen.

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Motsepe wishes to give hope to South Africans with his donation.

What we are going to do, as the Motsepe family, is we are going to contribute R3.5 billion rand to help with the process of land reform in this country. We want to give a moment of hope, we want to give a moment of inspiration for all of the people of this rainbow nation.

We are coming together as leaders in South Africa. We are coming together in unity as leaders and are committed to working together to ensure that the current land reform process will result in land with the requisite support and skills being made available to black people living in rural areas.

The festival worked with many organisations to bring the event to SA, including Motsepe's Motsepe Foundation.

READ ALSO: COPE aims to secure 'white vote' by speaking out on Land Reform, farm murders

Enjoyed reading our story? Download BRIEFLY's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major South African news!

Source: Briefly.co.zaSouth Africans watching the Global Citizen Festival at home were left disappointed when the Beyonce-Jay Z performance was cut short. This while Fikile Mbalula fainted after seeing Queen Bey.

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South Africans who couldn't get tickets to the Global Citizen Festival were set to enjoy the performances at home, but that led to bitter disappointment.

The most anticipated performance did not live up to the hype. First, Beyonce and Jay-z disappeared after 2 songs - the diva had to change her outfit. Then the couple did 3 songs before being replaced by Trevor Noah.

That was it, South Africans at home didn't see the rest of Beyonce or Jay-Z's performance.

The Citizen reports that the couple wanted the rest of their performance to be exclusive for those who were at the stadium. No one was impressed.

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Even EFF leader Julius Malema took to social media to voice a complaint about the abrupt end:

Meanwhile, Fikile Mbalula, who we all know is a huge fan of Beyonce, admitted that he fainted a little bit when he saw her. He later claimed he was doing the idibala, but we don't buy it.

READ ALSO: Political drama: EFF accused of physical attacks on Vodacom stores

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Source: Briefly.co.za- COPE has been enjoying a comeback after suffering a loss of support after infighting between its leader, Mosiuoa Lekota and a former deputy

- The party has received approval from the Afrikaaner community by speaking out against Land Expropriation without compensation as well as farm murders

- Lekota aims to calm racial tensions in the country and bring the nation back together by appealing to the otherwise excluded community

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The Congress of the People (COPE) seems to have become a beacon of hope for Afrikaner communities that have been feeling like they dont have a political party that represents them.

According to the Citizen Mosiuoa Lekota ( leader of COPE) has become a messiah after voicing issues facing the Afrikaner identity. He has been vocal about his disapproval of Land Expropriation without Compensation and has been calling for farm attacks to be addressed.

Lekota has been reaching out to the Afrikaners, taking part in a recent march organised by AfriForum to protest farm murders as well as another march by ToekomVonk.

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Political analyst Andre Duvenhage has said that Lekotas strategy will benefit his party by appealing to the group, which has been excluded from the narratives of other parties.

At the moment, the bigger Afrikaner communities do not have any leader to follow and they feel they have no political home anymore. They are looking for alternatives, and that alternative is the Freedom Front Plus and any party that would take up their issues. Lekota is doing exactly that, Duvenhage explained.

The analyst says that there are clear indications that this is winning some votes for COPE from the Afrikaans community, who identify with his narrative and appreciate a voice for their concerns.

READ ALSO: Malema Joburg home in exclusive estate is owned by Adriano Mazzotti

Generally, the Afrikaner people like Lekota because they see him as a moderate leader and a realist. He is pursuing the right strategies in terms of the African communities, Duvenhage said.

This serves as a much-needed comeback for COPE who had lost support after infighting between its leader and former deputy Mbhazima Shilowa. This saw the parties National Assembly seats dropping drastically from 37 MPs to only 3 in 2014.

The partys national chairperson, Pakes Dikgetsi, said that the feud had contributed largely to the damage the party has endured.

It damaged us. You can say it was the bad season, but we have been working really hard with determination to revive this party. Now there is a positive mood about Cope among people, our task is to translate this into votes, he said.

Lekota has justified his inclusion of the Afrikaaners as an effort to unite the nation and bring blacks and whites together, a sentiment the late former president Nelson Mandela had stood for.

All of us are South Africans and South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in diversity. Many people who had been voting for the DA and the Freedom Front Plus said they had no understanding of our constitution. We have been winning the verbal support of many whites and we believe they will vote for us, Lekota said.

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Source: Briefly.co.zaKelly Khumalo and Chad Da Don's romance has been steaming for some time and now the gorgeous couple made it clear how they feel: they are officially engaged. Kelly and Chad both got tattoos with each other's names as symbols of their love.

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Fans of the two musicians knew their romance was intense and passionate, but they didn't expect it to be this serious.

Chad Da Don and Kelly Khumalo are officially engaged. They both shared the same snap on social media, announcing the happy news.

Kelly and Chad opted for alternative symbols of their undying love: matching tattoos. We're sure Kelly will soon be walking around with a stunning ring, the tattoos are as unique as the couple who chose it.

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Their decision to get married shouldn't really come as such a big surprise. Things were getting serious for a while now.

Briefly.co.za reported earlier that Chad recently introduced Kelly to his mother. Thats a big deal. Chad shared a snap with the words "Family over everything" and his mom's reply made it clear that his family accepts Kelly. She said, "Kelly is loved by the family".

We wish this couple the very best and many happy years together!

READ ALSO: Malema's Joburg home in exclusive estate is owned by Adriano Mazzotti

Enjoyed reading our story? Download BRIEFLY's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major South African news!

Source: Briefly.co.zaNews / National

by Staf reporter

The Zimbabwe Defence Forces has dismissed a story being peddled by some privately-owned publications alleging that Elliot Piki, a senior officer dishonourably discharged from the army for having an affair with his subordinate's wife, was kidnapped from his home on Sunday last week.Zimbabwe Defence Forces spokesperson Colonel Overson Mugwisi said Piki was working with unscrupulous political opposition voices to denigrate the Zimbabwe Defence Forces through the private media.He said it was a question of sour grapes and desperate efforts to tarnish the image of ZDF."We are disturbed by false allegations peddled in some sections of the private media insinuating that Elliot Piki, a former member of the Zimbabwe National Army, was abducted by masked armed men suspected to be State security agents using a vehicle similar to those allocated for use by senior Zimbabwe National Army officers," said Col Mugwisi."While it is true that Elliot Piki once served in the Zimbabwe National Army as a senior officer, he is not a retired colonel."He became an ordinary citizen after losing his commission when he was tried, convicted and cashiered by a General Court Martial for scandalous conduct of an officer on August 8, 2013."Piki had involved himself in an illicit love affair with his subordinate's wife who was also his junior serving member of the Zimbabwe National Army. Sadly, Piki was aware of the drastic consequences of such an illicit affair for serving members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces."Piki's lawyers now claim he escaped from his kidnappers in Rushinga, in Mashonaland Central.According to the articles in the private newspapers, Piki was allegedly abducted by armed masked men, amid claims at the time that he was due to testify before the Commission of Inquiry into the August 1 post-election violence that resulted in the death of six people.On Tuesday last week, according to the newspapers report, Piki pitched up at the commission of inquiry where he was allegedly barred from testifying.The Commission has denied that Piki was listed to testify before it.News / National

by Staff reporter

FINANCE minister Mthuli Ncube has urged banks to diversify and develop business models tailored to meet special requirements of the unbanked and underserved segments of the population.Ncube was speaking at the launch of the Zimbabwe Independent's Banks and Banking Survey in Harare on Thursday, where he was the key speaker.The survey was carried under the theme Financial Inclusion: Banking the Unbanked."Financial inclusion serves as a critical pathway for uplifting the lives of under-served and marginalised people in our country, through unlocking opportunities for stakeholders that include women and youth by expanding access to savings, credit, insurance, capital markets and payment systems," he said."An inclusive financial sector has the catalytic effect of helping the nation to diversify the economy and boost sectors such as agriculture, tourism and manufacturing.When more people save and transact through formal financial institutions, the country will have more resources to invest in various sectors of the economy and, in turn, create the much-needed jobs as well as reduce poverty. Access to financial services is often the first step in allowing the poor and marginalised to flourish."Ncube added that government, in collaboration with financial sector regulators, would continue to promote an enabling environment that allows financial institutions to be innovative, while ensuring that the financial system remains safe and sound.CABS emerged the top-performing bank with, CBZ coming in second position followed by First Capital Bank (formerly Barclays Bank).The survey showed that the banks performed reasonably well under the prevailing economic conditions, as most indicators were positive.Balance sheets were stronger, profits were up and there was a healthy relationship between expenditure and income.An analysis of key ratios as well as the balance sheet size and profitability was used to determine the ranking. Up to 27 categories were analysed and only hard data was used for this purpose to avoid undue subjectivity.Steward Bank won the award for mobilising the most deposits during the period under review.The bank's liabilities amounted to $10,473 billion, with deposits making up 80,3% of the amount.Deposits from customers have been growing steadily over the years when compared to those from other banks. Customers' deposits peaked at $8,4 billion in the half-year period, while the ones from banks were only $1,2bn.Deposits consist largely of demand funds at 64,47%, while time deposits contribute 24,34%. Savings only constitute 4,76%, as people would rather spend than save.It remains to be seen whether the saving culture will change with the advent of the foreign current accounts, as value is better preserved in hard currency.CBZ, Stanbic and CABS collectively account for 46,12% of all deposits. The building societies anchor the bottom of the rankings in terms of deposit size, with FBC Building Society at $113,86 million, National Building Society $67,72m and lastly ZB Building Society with a modest $22,29m.Lines of credit improved from $241,7m last year to $278m in the six months under review, a sign of growing confidence by foreign entities. NMB was voted the people's choice in a poll conducted online.Cumulatively, the banks hold $1,5bn in equity compared to $1,3bn last year.More than 60% of the loans were issued for productive purposes, with the agricultural sector accounting for 15,68%, while the mortgage sector took up 14,68%, followed by distribution at 12,89%.CABS has the biggest loan book with an amount of $904,69m, followed by CBZ with $639,49m.Stanbic and FBC Bank follow in third and fourth place with $384,5m and $307,58m respectively.Smaller banks by deposit size anchor the bottom of the list, with FBC Building Society at $64,45m and ZB Building Society with $20,72m.Ecobank won the award for the most cost-efficient bank.The CBZ loan book accounts for 23,72% of the total loans on the market, followed with 14,5%. Stanbic comes in third place with 9,13% the First Capital 5,83% coming second and BancABC 5,69% third.CBZ has the largest holding of government securities at 31,12%, followed by StanChart at 9,48%. Entities with smaller deposits naturally account for less in terms of their investment in Treasury Bills (TBs).ZB Building Society does not invest in TBs, while the other building societies weigh in marginally: FBC Building Society (1,94%) and National Building Society (0,63%).The proportion of loans to deposits dipped from 49,5% in the first half of the year in 2017 to 40,2%. This invariably means that either banks are reluctant to lend or customers do not want to borrow.On the other hand, government securities have seen a surge in their claim on deposits, rising from 31,9% last year to 39,63% in the first half of the year.Overall, banks are lending on average about 77% of their deposits and, with some even including their equity in the lending matrix, the ratio settles around 66%.Total income increased from $391m in the first half last year to close the year at $920m. In the six months to June, the banks have already registered $547m in total income and are likely to breach the $1bn mark in the full year.Net profit has also seen a steady increase from 20,4% in the first half last year to 33,8% this year.Almost all entities under review made a profit, save for ZB Building Society, which incurred a nominal loss of $234 337.The most profitable entities are FBC Building Society and Ecobank, with margins of 59,2% and 52,8% respectively, while CBZ and CABS follow at 43,8% and 43,7%.The banks cumulatively operated within acceptable limits of income-to-expenditure ratios that ensured profitability and going concern of the firms.Non-interest income constituted 60,42% compared to 56,29% last year. The biggest component of non-interest income was fees and commissions.Staff costs account for less than half of the total expenses and less than 30% of total income.News / National

by Staff reporter

MDC founding member and former Senator Sibangilizwe Msipha has died.Msipha (53) died in a traffic accident early Thursday morning along N1 highway in Limpopo Province on his way to Johannesburg, South Africa. Five people, including Msipha died on the spot."The party has lost a giant of a man, a loyal cadre who was committed to free people of Zimbabwe from Zanu-PF slavery. We blame the loss of Msipha on Zanu-PF which only knows how to fix elections and not the economy forcing our brothers and sisters to cross the borders to other countries in search for food for their families," MDC Bulawayo deputy spokesperson Edwin Ndlovu said."Msipha was a cross-border transporter who was trying to provide for his family. Had the Zimbabwe economy been good, Senator Msipha would be alive today working here at home or running a business here in Zimbabwe, but because of this government, our colleague is no more. We mourn with the Msipha family."Mourners are gathered at house number 389, 9th street Makokoba, Bulawayo.Ndlovu said Msipha's body will be repatriated back home on Thursday.Msipha was the MDC senator for Makokoba from 2006 to 2008 and is survived by his wife Debra and five children. He will be buried at Bulawayo's Lady Stanley cemetery on Saturday.Milledgeville, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

Think Independently. Lead Creatively.

For Immediate Release:

DATE: Monday, Dec. 3, 2018

CONTACT: Cindy ODonnell

Media Relations Specialist

University Communications

cindy.odonnell@gcsu.edu



Georgia College graduate wins coveted Marshall Scholarship

A Georgia College alumnus recently won the prestigious Marshall Scholarshipa nationally-competitive award that includes past winners who went on to earn Pulitzer and Nobel prizes, take seats as U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justices and receive MacArthur Genius Grants.

Kevin Morris of Savannah, a 2017 graduate, now joins those ranksthe first Georgia College student or alum to achieve this award.

As an undergraduate, he excelled academically, won a Fulbright Scholarship to Macedonia and earned a dual degree in economics and history. Morris currently works as a project assistant, doing Macedonian and Serbian programming for the Central and Eastern European Team at the National Democratic Institute in Washington, D.C.

I have a community of people and organizations at Georgia College which made this moment possible, Morris said. My involvement in the Honors Program played a huge role in providing me with the community of brilliant and perspicacious people who inspired me to work harder, dream bigger and push myself to produce my best work.

Up to 40 Marshall Scholarships are awarded annually from about 1,000 university-endorsed applications. The competition identifies young Americans of high-abilitypossible future leadersand finances their study for a degree in the United Kingdom. The goal is to foster relations between both countries, as U.S. recipients act as ambassadors.

Morris hopes to use his two-year award to pursue a masters degree at the School of Slavonic and Eastern European Studies at University College London (UCL). Hed like to enhance his research skills there and learn more about regional histories.

I am eager to begin my own research at UCL, with the help of its excellent resources, Morris said. I want to contribute to our understanding of how economic policy can mitigate the obstacles faced by people and groups with marginalized identities and establish more cooperative, inclusive relationships between different communities.

I am incredibly excited for this next chapter in my life, he said.

Morris worked months on his Marshall application, while traveling back to the U.S. from his Fulbright year in Macedonia, moving to Washington D.C. and beginning a new job. He interviewed with Georgia College faculty and staff for a university endorsement. When he became a regional finalist, Morris also interviewed at the British Consul Generals regional office in Atlanta. Knowing Germana language he studied intensively at Georgia Collegewas a key factor. The Marshall Scholarship Committee questioned him at length about his command of German, a regionally-important language in Europe and the Balkans.

My background in German played a huge role in the success of my application, Morris said. A command of European and Asian languages seems to be a common feature among Marshall Scholars, and I am indebted to the German faculty at Georgia College for preparing me for this opportunity.

Morris called the interview with the Marshall Scholarship Committee one of the most intense experiences of his life.

He drew upon leadership skills learned in college. Morris was a member of the Georgia College Council of Student Ambassadors. He facilitated public forums with the American Democracy Project. He also acted in plays, which he said gave him extensive practice in thinking on his feet.

Kevin excelled as a leader through his work with 4-H and the Georgia Education Mentorship program, said Anna Whiteside, assistant director of the Honors Program and coordinator of the universitys National Scholarships Office.

As a Marshall Scholar, she said, Kevin will learn about ways he can work with the United Kingdom to facilitate U.S./U.K. relations, as they pertain to Central and Eastern European affairs.

Please see attached photos and Front Page for more information.

For additional information and scheduling interviews, please call: 478-445-8668 / 478-508-2599. Or email: cindy.odonnell@gcsu.edu.

AttachmentsNews / National

by Staff reporter

Zimbabwe's telecoms sector generated revenue in excess of $1 billion and contributed 7,2 % to the country's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2017, the industry regulator has said.Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) director-general Gift Machengete told the Parliamentary Committee on Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) and Courier Services that the sector was on a growth path."The telecommunications sector is now one of the fastest growing sectors in the economy, contributing 7,8% to national GDP in 2017. The sector has been experiencing growth in revenues owing to the continued growth in consumption of voice, mobile money and internet and data services. The sector has surpassed the US$1 billion mark in terms of revenues in 2017. Growth has also been realised by the increase in the mobile penetration rate which currently stands at 92% from 25% in 2009," he said."The performance of the postal sector, however, remains in the doldrums both in terms of revenue performance and volumes. The authority is making frantic efforts to revive the sector through projects such as the modern Post Office project, which will leverage on ICTs through e- commerce and e-government to ensure postal sector survival".However, the emergence of new technologies has seen a slump in the uptake of postal services in Zimbabwe, threatening viability of traditional courier services provider such as the State-owned Zimpost.The company remains constrained by limited working capital, and an ever growing debtor's book, which made it difficult for it to compete with privately-owned courier service providers.Commenting on claims that the country has some of the highest data tariffs in the region, Machengete said the charges were reflective of a cost environment."The general notion is that tariffs in Zimbabwe are the highest in the region, but you will have to appreciate that our circumstances are different when compared to our neighbours in the region. You cannot compare apples with oranges. You have to compare like for like," he said."Indeed, we appreciate that the tariffs are high, but the prevailing telecommunications and internet tariffs were reached after extensive cost studies using the long-run incremental costing models. These studies essentially evaluated the cost of operating a network or rolling out a service and came up with fair tariffs that would ensure business viability and affordability by consumers".Potraz is in the process of finalising a strategic plan for the period 2019-2023, which seeks to ensure that government fully leverages on ICT as a key enabler to economic growth.The strategy is characterised by universal and affordable access to ICT services, profitability of the sector postal, fair completion, high innovation and high cyber security.News / National

by Mandla Ndlovu

Presidential Spokesperson George Charamba has issued a contradictory statement to that of August 1 killings Commission chairperson Kgalema Motlanthe regarding the publicity of the commission report."There is nothing at law that compels the President to release the report to the public or not to release it to the public," said Mr Charamba. "The discretion is his. Where he has a bit of a limit is in respect of how the Commission conducts its hearings in terms of the law."But on Friday Motlanthe appeared live on ZTV in an interview with Rueben Barwe and said the commission of Inquiry into the 1 August violence will set up a website where it will post all the material submitted to it for the public to access for themselves.The former South African President said he was happy with the way the hearings had been conducted because even those who had given evidence under protest had ended opening up.The Commission has since submitted an Executive summary to President Emmerson Mnangagwa.With Mr Motlanthe on the Commission are international law expert Mr Rodney Dixon (UK), former Commonwealth Secretary-General Chief Emeka Anyaoku (Nigeria), former Tanzania People's Defence Forces Commander General (Retired) Davis Mwamunyange, University of Zimbabwe lecturers professors Lovemore Madhuku and Charity Manyeruke, and former Law Society of Zimbabwe president Mrs Vimbai Nyemba.News / Religion

by Staff Reporter

The church has also waded into the economic debate with United Family International Church leader Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa weighing into the growing calls for government to consider the option of using the rand as a solution to solving the currency crisis that has become a burden for both business and consumers.Divergent solutions have been proffered on how government can deal with the current fiscal challenges, including the wider usage of the rand as the functional currency given the already strong connection between Zimbabwe and South Africa in terms of trade and FDI.UFIC leader Prophet Makandiwa, the latest voice to wade into this debate, this Sunday advised monetary authorities to urgently address the currency distortions that have become an albatross for both business and consumers.Industry leaders such as the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) and the Bankers Association of Zimbabwe are on record pushing fiscal authorities to adopt the rand as a currency of reference which would ease the pressure on the country as it had become an easy target to access the green back.According to the industrial body's past president Mr Busisa Moyo, the rand link presents a strong option for Zimbabwe considering the already strong relationship between the two countries.The government is currently implementing a number of reforms to revive the economy implemented through a raft of cost cutting measures, but has approached the currency crisis issue with saliency leaving room for arbitrage opportunities.Despite the growing calls, treasury maintains a lot of issues need to be considered before taking such a route.The debate on the use of the rand ahead of the US dollar to resolve the country's currency challenges escalated last year, with arguments centered on the trade statistics where the country's economic activity is already quoted at 95 percent with Pretoria.Opinion / Columnist

On Friday President Mnangagwa 'broke ground' for a new parliament building. Coming a time when Zimbabwe is in economic meltdown it shows a bizarre choice of priorities. Mnangagwa will protest that China is paying for this white elephant but it will be naive to think it will not come at a price. And, anyway, is it necessary?If the current building is too small why not reduce the number of parliamentarians? This is what the UK is doing. Apparently 350 legislators are too many to be accommodated by the current parliament in the heart of the capital. So now we are to have 650-seater at Mount Hamden, nearly 20 kilometres north west of Harare. When will the government get the message that Zimbabwe is broke? Out of the blue it was announced that the state is to build a luxurious new home in Borrowdale for Mnangagwa. It is not as if he is short of places to lay his head. After all he is one of the richest men in Zimbabwe. And how much is it costing the state to hire luxurious aircraft from abroad to fly him off on his insatiable travels? Just because Mugabe did it it is no reason for him to follow suit.Public anger at the state of the economy was evident on Thursday when thousands turned out in Harare for a demonstration called by the MDC, which accused Mnangagwa of a 'cocktail of lies'. It said he had broken countless promises  from promising that bank queues would disappear in less that 100 days to promising to create tens of thousands of jobs as foreign investment flooded in.MDC leader Nelson Chamisa and Alliance Vice Chairman Tendai Biti called for a political dialogue with President Mnangagwa to end the economic turmoil. Speaking at the Commission of Inquiry into the post-election army shootings in Harare, they said the political crisis was suffocating the ordinary citizen and a dialogue was needed to move the country forward.A spanking new parliament building at this time is a folly but a refusal to talk to the opposition would be an even bigger one.Opinion / Columnist

"SADC Executive Secretary Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax has advised the opposition MDC Alliance that President Emmerson Mnangagwa's legitimacy is indisputable, underscoring that the regional bloc is preparing for Zimbabwe's Head of State and Government to take over as Chair of its influential Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Co-operation," reported Zimpaper."In terms of the petition, I have not received the petition. What should be recognised is that Zimbabwe is a sovereign country, Zimbabwe has a Constitution and Zimbabwe is guided by a number of legislations. Our advice is that let those be observed, elections took place, elections were contested, the Constitutional Court also judged. So all those were processes and instruments to ensure that there is democracy," said Dr Tax.No one should be surprised with the dismissal of the MDC Alliance's petition for one very good reasons: SADC gave MDC leaders the chance to implement the same democratic reforms Chamisa is now saying he wants to implement. MDC had five years to implement the reforms during the 2008 to 2013 GNU and they failed to get even one reform implemented. Not even one!Still, not even one SADC leader out there will deny that Mnangagwa rigged the recent elections and, more urgently, none of them can deny that the rigged elections has brought Zimbabwe ever closer to the dreaded failed state and political and economic chaos.An upheaval in Zimbabwe will spill over into other countries in the region and beyond. This is a political reality every SADC leader has been warned of and must now accept.Other than accepting MDC's petition, is there anything else SADC can do?There is no doubt that SADC's decision to accept the election results was born out of the regional leaders' disappointment with MDC leaders' past performance. This was a big mistake on the part of SADC leaders because they boxed themselves into accepting Mnangagwa as legitimate when we all know he rigged the elections.What SADC leaders should have done is judge the elections purely on the basis of the evidence and ignore MDC's antics. This is what the EU, the Americans and all the other nations and organisation who observed the recent elections did.What SADC leaders can do now is use the report of the other nation condemning the elections as having failed to meet international standards and the worsen economic situation in Zimbabwe to put pressure on President Mnangagwa to accept the need for meaningful political change in Zimbabwe. The economic situation in Zimbabwe is so bad doing nothing is a luxury SADC leaders do not have.With unemployment now a nauseating 90%, all the basic services such as supply of clean water and health care all but collapsed, the economy in turmoil because of shortages of foreign currency, food, fuel, medicine, etc.; there is no doubt that Zimbabwe is on the edge of the precipice."Zimbabwe is a sovereign country!" Sure, but so too is Libya, Somalia, Sudan, DRC, etc. but clearly that was not enough to stop these country sliding into political and economic chaos and dragging other nation along with them!Opinion / Columnist

George Bush senior died this morning. I met him once, when as Vice President he visited Harare and I was invited to a reception for him. My other indelible memory of the man was watching the GOP Convention where he was confirmed as the Presidential candidate for the Republcans - going on to win the election and lead his country through perhaps one of the most turbulent periods of global history.The whole family was on stage and he was standing slightly to one side with a small boy at his side, holding his hand. The camera zoomed in on him as the crowd roared his arrival on stage to acknowledge becoming their candidate. In doing so I got a good look at the little boy, he was mongoloid. Hair slicked back and in a suit with black shoes, he was watching the crowd with more curiosity than awe. He turned to his Grandfather, who was one of the most powerful figures on the world stage and said something to him, George leaned down to hear him better and smiled at him.If I had been in that hall and a Republican, I was sold. It was not so much what George did, it was the attitude of that boy. There was no sense of him being any different or inferior, no sense that he should not be there, no sense that this tall man standing next to him was anything other than his Grandfather. In a family that is leadership - real leadership. That he raised his family while being so busy with his public and business life, never accused of any misdemeanours, no scandal, married to one wife for over 70 years, his progeny all going on to make their mark in life, that is leadership in the family, something that is missing in so many families today.But more than real leadership of an exemplary manner in the family, George Bush was the consummate socially caring Conservative politician. A decent man who cared for people from all walks of life. His Presidency was characterised by something that is missing today in the USA - a vision of America in the world, caring, compassionate but supremely powerful. He knew how to wield power and understood, better than many the limits of power and when to step back.A year after he assumed the Presidency - the Berlin Wall collapsed and the Soviet Empire disintegrated. Instead of gloating over these events and the success of Democracy and individual freedom over Marxist authoritarianism, he reached out and supported the individual countries as they struggled to find their feet in a turbulent and unstable Europe. He built up a friendship with the leaders of Russia, he moved swiftly to support the efforts of the German Government to integrate their fractured society and economy. No grand gestures, just quiet diplomacy and support. Largely because of his leadership and the selective use of power, the transition from the Soviet era to something else was much less turbulent than might have been expected. I often wonder how many of us appreciate just how dangerous those days were?Almost at the same time - April 1989 we had the uprising in China exemplified by Tiananmen Square. Hundreds of thousands of young people swarmed over the most famous square in China, demanding change. It was over a decade since Mao had died and China was still finding its way. Economic liberalisation had not been followed by political freedoms. The rising tide of prosperity and an increasingly educated and mobile new generation was asking why was the Communist Party still supreme in every aspect of their lives? Legitimate question, wrong time. President Bush watched these events from Washington, a world away and recognised the dilemma of the Chinese leadership. Alone among world leaders he recognised that if the uprising was encouraged and funded it would lead to chaos in the largest country in the world in population terms. He recognised the wisdom of the Chinese leadership in prioritising the economy over politics and wanting to gradually allow greater people participation in decision making. He quietly signalled his support to the Chinese leadership achieving two things - an era of cooperation with the USA and the maintenance of a more open society to the West. I breathed a sigh of relief and this event further strengthened my admiration for the President as one of the truly great leaders of our time.Then the War over Kuwait. The Iraq leadership decided that the wealth of Kuwait was just too much of a temptation for one of the great power brokers in the region. They invaded the tiny State where they pump wealth out of the ground at a dollar a barrel and sell at a 100 times this on the world market. If ever there was a money machine, this was it. Kuwait was no pansy, but when the armed forces of Iraq invaded it was all over. I remember asking a Danish friend of mine what they would do if their neighbour, the Soviet Union invaded? He said they would put up welcome signs in Russian!This contest was much the same. The political and moral options were simple, but who was going to do it. The United States stepped up to the podium and said the invasion was a gross violation of international law and had to be reversed. No other State had the resources. The President again showed another side of his character. A former fighter pilot in the US Navy, he appreciated that when you decide to go to war, you have to apply adequate force. The result, a contest in which the American armed forces in three months, simple crushed the Iraq army. They demonstrated the capacity of technology and destructive targeted power in a way that had not been seen before or since.But it did not stop there, he knew the limits of military power and once he had driven the Iraq army out of Kuwait and reinstalled the leadership and control of that country, he instructed his forces to stop operations and allowed what was left of a defeated army, to limp back to their homes. Many hawks in his own Party howled for blood and argued that they should have finished the job by taking the fight to the leadership of Iraq and the capital city. Bush stood firm, they had done their job, the US armed forces went home earning the massive respect of every Arab State and the lifetime gratitude of the Kuwait leadership.Statecraft is not easy or simple, leadership at times like these requires massive wisdom and courage. President Bush exhibited all of these and left behind him a more decent, stable and progressive world. When his term of office came to an end and he had to stand again, he did so, but for me watching his campaign and the tide of time, I thought that this man did not want a second term. He wanted to go home and spend the rest of his days with friends and family. Like Mandela he stepped back from power and authority and retreated with his memories and legacy.This event - the passing of George H Bush into eternity - brings to my mind the importance of leadership in the modern world. We have leaders - Trump in the USA, May in the UK, Merkel in Germany, Mnangagwa here. They are all struggling with local and global problems and must make decisions every day. I have no doubt that Trump will not leave a legacy that anyone will be proud of - the whole world will celebrate his passing; his own family will certainly have mixed feelings. Mrs May is trying to achieve the impossible - withdrawal from the EU without damage to the British economy and its people. Mrs Merkel has stayed on too long after a great period of leading Germany as the heart of Europe and restoring Berlin to the heart and soul of Germany.Then there is tiny Zimbabwe, Mugabe is history, celebrated in the passing and without a legacy except that he was the man who brought us independence in 1980 and gave all Zimbabweans freedom and opportunity. But his leadership was disastrous, especially after Sally died - somehow she was a guide and mentor. Millions have died an early death under his leadership, further millions have fled as economic and political refugees, we are poorer and less educated and most see little prospect of a better future. We have been failed by our post-independence leadership, the challenge is, can our new leadership rise to the occasion and do what is required to unlock our future with all its potential.Opinion / Columnist

Enos Denhere is an Entrepreneur and Leadership Success Speaker . He is seeking for Start ups forums/ business organizations/Seed capital/Angel business/Equity Capital/Venture Capital to be your Sole Representative in Zimbabwe and Surrounding Countries . Email enosdenhere@gamil.com Call / app +263773894975

A startup or start-up is started by individual founders or entrepreneurs to search for a repeatable and scalable business model. More specifically, a startup is a newly emerged business venture that aims to develop a viable business model to meet a marketplace need or problem. Founders design startups to effectively develop and validate a scalable business model . Hence, the concepts of startups and entrepreneurship are similar. However, entrepreneurship refers all new businesses, including self-employment and businesses that never intend to grow big or become registered, while startups refer to new businesses that intend to grow beyond the solo founder, have employees, and intend to grow large . Start-ups face high uncertainty and do have high rates of failure, but the minority that go on to be successful companies have to potential to become large and influential."A startup is a human institution designed to create a new product or service under conditions of extreme uncertainty." Africa need to spearhead and empower start ups to solve problems in our continent . Investors usually don't buy idea before execution of the plan ."Startup is a state of mind," says Adora Cheung, cofounder and CEO of Homejoy, one of the Hottest US start ups of 2013. "It's when people join your company and are still making the explicit decision to forgo stability in exchange for the promise of tremendous growth and the excitement of making immediate impact." A startup is the living embodiment of a founder's dream . It represents the journey from concept to reality. It is one of the few times when you can take something that is only a dream and make it a reality, not just for yourself, but for the entire world.Compared to other types of more traditional companies, startups also represent a big change in terms of the economic component linked to the creation of a new company. Given that initial development costs are much more modest than the ones traditional businesses require, funding needs are also going to be lower. Although these companies attract a broader variety of investors, these are some of the typical players that startups tap to fund their projects: FFF (Family, friends and fools)Although some don't see them as actual investors, they play a key role in the earliest stages of a company. These are people that are close to the entrepreneur, that contribute with a limited amount of capital at the beginning when the idea is not developed enough to convince anybody else to investBusiness angels These angels are people that decide to back the project and invest their own money to get involved in a new business. With capital contributions that rarely exceed $60,000, these investors usually become involved in the project at other levels, contributing with their experience, connections or customers.Seed capital Seed capital usually appears in the early stages of a company's funding cycle, before it becomes profitable. The more seeds the company attracts, the more likely to succeed it will be. According to seed capital expert Carlos Guerrero, investments usually range from $200,000 to $700,000. The decision to invest, in this case, is not based on the company's current profits, but more on the potential of the idea and the team behind it.Venture capital - This type of investor normally appears when the startup is in a more advanced stage, but still is considered a risky investment. However, in contrast with business angels, venture capital does not come from individuals, but from specialized investment funds that invest much larger amounts, usually in different funding rounds, to ensure that the company does not run out of money in covering its future needs Private equity - As a general rule, this type of funding is reserved for already or nearly established companies that need a substantial amount of money to continue growing their business.Google, Facebook ,Twitter these are all hugely successful corporations that have become household names. These companies, once startups, outgrew their 'emerging business' label a long time ago. While there is no rule of thumb to determine when a startup can be said to have become a conventional company, there are several factors that can give an indication the company has completed, or is on the verge of, making this transition. A startup becomes a conventional business if: It goes public. It is seen as an inspiration by other companies and starts having competitors in the market. Employees no longer need to work more than 8.5 hours per day. Employee leave (vacations, medical..) doesn't affect the running of the company. It is no longer an independent entity, but has merged or been acquired with/by another company.Opinion / Columnist

Iphithule T. Maphosa

ZAPU Information and Publicity Secretary

Devolution of power has been the flagship policy of ZAPU for a long time. ZAPU recognises and acknowledges the vast contribution of all who came on board the principle of devolved governance. The results of the Constitutional Parliamentary Committee (COPAC) public consultation confirmed the popularity of devolution. The inclusion of Devolution in the 2013 Constitution Chapter 14 ignited in many people the hope of transferring power from the centralised and corrupt system of government to the people to manage their own affairs in their localities. Following five years of ZANU government's dithering and even threats to scrap the devolution provision by amending the constitution, Mr E.D. Mnangagwa took advantage of devolution sentiments in his 2018 election campaign trail with a promise to enact legislation to establish and operationalise Constitutional provisions if he won the elections. Now his government is quickly moving to fulfill their promise by introducing the Devolution Bill in Parliament.There has been mixed reactions to the Bill and confusion about the final shape of the proposed devolution. The public seems to be taken in by the rhetoric of "Power to the People" and the dream of having communities take control over their local affairs and resources. There is no doubt that the Bill will sail through Parliament without much scrutiny as the parties in Parliament were the crafters of the constitutional provision that is being aligned. There is no strong public agitation for democratic public consultation on the devolution process, albeit a few civil society groups have made submissions calling for public consultation. We can only hope that somebody is listening.ZAPU is concerned that the government intention is to keep power rooted within the central government while giving only the impression of empowering people to manage and benefit from economic development in their provinces. Vice President Constantino Chiwenga told ZANU supporters in Kuwadzana, Harare during the election campaign that provinces will be competing with each other to contribute to the Central Government GDP while developing their provinces. There is no doubt that the government will manage the competition and assign development plans to each province.We are told that the Devolution Bill seeks to facilitate the devolution of government powers and responsibilities to the Provincial and Local Authorities. It also seeks to facilitate and enhance coordination between Central Government, Provincial Councils and Local Authorities, within the context of decentralization and devolution programme. The "context of decentralization and devolution programme" needs unpacking to get clarity between decentralization and devolution and how the programme will be implemented.The former finance Minister, Patrick Chinamasa warned that funding of devolution as set out in Chapter 14 of the Constitution would be unsustainable. Mr. Chinamasa had a point because as long as we maintain the current bloated governmental structures that gobble up the fiscus it would be impossible to finance the bloated National Assembly, central government ministerial structure and the required provincial structures to achieve meaningful devolution. The government is keen to amend the constitution to avoid a situation in which the MPs who also sit in the Provincial Councils as provided for in Section 268 of Chapter 14 would have a conflict of interest. This will not solve the challenge of sustaining unnecessarily bloated structuresUnder the ZAPU model of governance, the governmental structures would be streamlined to reduce public expenditure. The country cannot afford to maintain the current bloated system which is destroying the future of our children and grandchildren. ZAPU proposes the abolition of the Senate and reduction of the number of the National Assembly members by approximately one third. This would require the amendment of the Constitution, following due consultation with the citizens. There would be a delimitation of constituencies to reduce the number of MPs.The provincial councils would have their own assemblies whose members are elected by the people in the province while the government plans are to have Ministers of State who would be responsible for ensuring that the growth of the provincial economies are in line with the national economic plan. This means the central government will appoint ministers to supervise the provincial economic development and growth of local GDPs and monitor compliance with National Government requirements. There appears to be a thin line between a local government administrator and the role of minister of state in adevolved governance. According to the government plans the minister's role will shift from political to economic activities of the province, particularly on how to grow the economy of the province.The ZAPU model of devolution is based on political accountability to provincial residents and economic viability of the resource endowment of a geographical area. Five provinces would be both politically and economically viable (Manicaland, Mashonaland, Matebeleland, Masvingo and Midlands) than the current ten small provincial and metropolitan councils. Such configuration of the provinces would ensure that each province has enough resources to be exploited to sustain its infrastructure, further development and service delivery to its population as well as to bring in foreign currency through export, tourism attractions which are in each of the five provinces and other activities. The local elected members will be drivers of the development programs rather than a government minister. Natural resources would be processed locally to provide employment for locals. Taxes would be collected to finance service delivery within the provincial jurisdiction and a specific agreed proportion of revenue would go to support central government functions and shared national requirements. This way the grotesque public spending by central government that we have become accustomed to will be curtailed.Opinion / Columnist

There is a saying which goes; "We are our own worst enemy". The statement is pregnant to our everyday life as it points to issues to do with development. The statement simply put means that you cannot get anywhere in life, because you keep getting in your own way. All of the troubles you are encountering arise from your own actions.The above statement speaks volume of the current Zimbabwean fuel situation crisis in which winding long queues have re-appeared barely weeks after the status quo has shown signs of improving.The Minister of Energy and Power Development, Dr Joram Gumbo has proved to be one of the Cabinet Ministers in this dispensation who has received the largest chunk of criticism due to the fuel status quo. Why?The Minister in his attempt to bring sanity to the fuel situation in the country which has turned to be an eyesore, he advocated for the banning of fuel jerry cans and or close monitoring to curb unscrupulous activities that would give a good breeding ground for fuel black-market deals. He received a tirade of criticism but it seems the Minister was right.He had a long term vision.Jerry-cans have pumped life into the black market operation in the country and as per the Minister's fears, instead of the jerry-cans being used in terms of emergency, they are now feeding into the black-market.Metaphorically expressing, the country shot at the messenger who was giving them warning of bad times ahead.Not only should the prevailing status quo in the fuel industry be shouldered and blamed on Government alone. Citizens are to blame as well.The use of jerry-cans have exposed a syndicate of corrupt dealings where one person hoard fuel using jerry-cans for black-market operations and fuel attendants are involved in this racket which has grounded and inflicted so much pain on the motorists.An investigation has revealed that service stations as per Minister Gumbo's sentiments are getting their daily supply amounts but tend to withhold it. One wonders why would they withhold it.A clandestine survey was done in most service stations in and around Harare assessing the fuel situation and the survey revealed that black-market operations are being fed by these stations under the guise of genuine motorists but all with makeshift tanks and jerry cans inside.On the black market exorbitant pricing is the order of the day. A 5 litre of petrol is going for a price between $30-$40. One wonders how this operates. Tired and impatient motorists in the queues are emotionally pushed to fall for these prices because anytime the station can close citing that they no longer have fuel but alas, it is done to finance their operation for profiteering purposes.President Emmerson Mnangagwa whenever he addresses the nation, he urges Zimbabweans to unite, bury their differences and work towards the development of the nation for there are brighter moments ahead but alas, it appears there is a concerted effort put by a section to push forward a destructive narrative in the country.The law should pounce on the illegal underhand dealings in the fuel industry in which it appears there is an effort to create a bad image of Government thereby tainting President Mnangagwa's administration.Of course, Government has acknowledged to challenges of foreign currency availability in the country but it is putting a never ending effort to provide for its people but corruption and selfishness by our own is inflicting so much pain to the ordinary person.Opinion / Columnist

The fierce encounter at Lalaphansi and a little later at the Shangani River in October, 1893, between Imbizo gallant Forces of King Lobengula and the Imperialist Forces were initial incidents that marked the deep-seated Whiteman's and their vassals' desire to destroy the Ndebele Kingdom. The KoGadade battle on the 2nd November, 2018 was a decider as to whether the King would continue staying at Emahlabathini Palace or He would move towards the North. Indeed, He moved up North after instructing his inner Indunas Sivalo Mahlangu and Mabhena to burn down the Palace. KoBulawayo was no-more. The fall of the Palace was a combination of the Imperialist Forces using heavy machine guns against Imbizo, Insukamini and other Ndebele regiments and a betrayal of one African by another to the Whites when some small hearted non-visionary Africans sided with the Colonialists. This is the point at which Whites colonized Africans in Ebudlamnondo and when Africans colonized other Africans by being part of a Whiteman's plan to exterminate the Ndebeles.There were skirmishes between the colonial forces and the mighty Ndebele regiments North of Bulawayo that culminated on the final Pupu Battle. At this battle the Allan Wilson group on horseback were all wiped out by the very tactical Ndebele Forces. Commander in Chief, Mtshana Khumalo would not allow the King to be captured. Some high ranking personalities sacrificed their lives to save the King and the dignity of the Kingdom. Both morally and militarily polished Ndebele army decently buried the dead White soldiers in a typical Ndebele round shaped grave at which the follow-up White forces found their bones that they reburied at the Matopos Hills. Heavy rains had fallen and the King disappeared. The King had not been captured. The Ndebele Forces won that battle and therefore the Ndebele were never defeated militarily by the British Imperialist Forces. Darkness fell on the Umthwakazi nation when their King disappeared on the 4th. December, 1893.This marked the collapse of the Ndebele Kingdom that the White colonialist would never allow to be revived. To this day we continue to suffer the effects of the divide and rule that the Colonialists used to destroy the Monarch system and the Kingdom.What followed the 4th. December, 2018, is very painful to imagine. The well orchestrated colonial mastery was used to destroy the Kingdom and subject the Ndebele people and other Africans in this country to oppression of immeasurable proportions. New laws were enacted that brought misery to Africans. The Land Apportionment act was one of such bad and oppressive laws that removed Africans from fertile land which was later allocated to Whites. The Ndebele people of King Lobengula were themselves violently 'redistributed' to infertile lands. The human inhumane redistribution destroyed the family structures and it increased the vulnerability to droughts and famine as it also destroyed their resiliencies to such disasters. If one travels wide in this country, traces of the Ndebele people are found in small pockets. That is evidence of the cruelty with which colonialists put in place measures to destroy what the Ndebele cherished most, their identity, resources and the collective ethic. There are Ndebele people in Mondoro, Chegutu, Chikombedzi, Gutu to name a few that have never met their brothers and sisters in Tsholotsho, Nkayi, Filabusi, Gwanda and many other areas in Matabeleland and Midlands since the 1950s and 1960s.This was intended to reduce the Ndebele, and indeed other Africans, to living organisms that could not determine their destiny.Africans were not allowed to walk on corridors or pavements in the City of Bulawayo. When they came out of lifts they were forced to walk along isles behind high rise buildings. Many of us will recall the incarceration of people like Masotsha Ndlovu, Tafi Moyo for walking on pavements and dropping sweet wrappers. This was resistance by the Ndebeles against a system pregnant with discrimination and oppression. Impi yehloka elibomvu, 1896 in which the Ndebele, on their side, fought battles against the Whites led by Nyamande Khumalo, who was on the 25thJune 1896, made King of the Ndebele, assisted spiritually by Queen Lozikeyi, was a strong expression of the dissatisfaction of the oppressive nature of the White colonial rule. The Home Society that Nyamande Khumalo formed and led was one such instrument of bringing the Ndebele together to resist the oppressive nature of colonialism. This was very organised resistance, but once again colonialism had been stronger in other areas of the country. The Whites were supported by other Africans. This betrayal of African by African failed the resistance program. As Africans all were in a hopeless situation to an extent that we failed to realize that colonialism against Africans in Zimbabwe was going to be collective issue.Independence came in 1980 after a protracted war led by Joshua Nkomo and Robert Mugabe against Rhodesians. The ZPRA and ZANLA Forces fought guerilla wars against the Rhodesian Forces and won the independence for the Zimbabweans. The conventional war battles on the banks of the Zambezi Escapement between the Rhodesian Forces and the ZPRA Forces in 1980 under the command of Madliwa Khumalo forced the Rhodesians to sign the Lancaster Agreement. The Lacanster Agreement failed the Ndebele people in that it completely ignored how the Whites had taken this country from the Africans and that there had been official borders in the country. Even if this would not have recognised certain aspects of the demarcations, the issue needed to have been addressed and ironed out then, that there is another on land border line called The Jameson Line that divided this country into two. This existed. The political arguments for and against this are not subject of this write up today. The other issue that needed to have been sorted out was the issue of majority and minority ethnic groups that has kept the tribalism card prime in the politics and governance of this country. It's an infectious disease that has made government struggle to create nationhood. It's as bad as corruption and probably worse because it zeros down to affecting inter-tribal relationships. Government seems not to have an idea of how to stamp it out. The route to building nationhood is the acknowledgement that tribalism exists and that minority tribes have suffered more due to its oppressive nature. The way out is for government to come up with value systems that all of us can cherish. The foundation for nationhood would have been set.These issues have remained a thorn in the flesh for the Ndebele people to an extent that the African led Government since independence, to the Ndebele eyes, has sustained colonial conditions. Incidents such as the Gukurahundi, allocation of land and local resources to people from other regions at the expense of the locals, poor or lack of educational, health, road and transport development and various tactics of creating unemployment and poverty in Matabeleland and Midlands that government has failed to address can only be seen by the Ndebele as discriminatory. How does our government explain how along the tarred road from Chivu to Mutare almost every ten(10)km. there is a Secondary school and two Primary schools. The students walk from the homes crossing roads to nearby schools. In Matabeleland students run along the main roads to Beitbridge, Plumtree, Filabusi and Hwange side by-side with vehicles, with hardly any school visible within 30km from Bulawayo for instance. Most politicians from Matabeleland have not assisted, either, in being frank at government level as to what areas need urgent addressing. The politics of food and survival, that is called patronage has shadowed focus on development needs of the people of this region. Government is not a human being with blood that has feelings, emotions and perceptions like the people that compose it. As a government, it should be looking at issues objectively and sharing the development cake equitably. This country, thirty eight(38) years since independence, needs peace, love and commitment to ensuring that everybody in the majority tribes or minority tribes enjoy life. That is what prevails in neighbouring independent countries. Leadership should stand up and be accountable with a positive political will to transform for the better.The Ndebele people are aware of the role politicians play and despite their failures to represent the interests of the people in government, the people respect the democratic system of voting the people into power. The people of this region and in this region, the Umthwakazi nation in particular, need to consider today, the 4th.December, 2018 to remember the day King Lobengula disappeared and our Kingdom collapsed, 4thDecember, 1893, into the hands of the imperialists. To give meaning to this incident:TO: Remember King Lobengula - the Umthwakazi nation, a public call is being made that the Umthwakazi nation retire from active political Parties activities from today, 4 December, 2018 to the month, January, (He was coronated in January, 1870) of his ascension to power and beyond by another three months to the end of April, 2018.It is a normal cultural withdrawal from some activities when something that is a major cultural event occurs or is being observed(Siyazila).This should allow the Ndebele people where ever they are to voluntarily and peacefully come together and reconsider who they are; what they exist for in this country and what legacy they intend to leave for generations to come. This virtual platform, that will culminate in an invigorated positioning of the people of and in this region should sum up with a Commemoration of King Lobengula's ascension to Power that is already being arranged for Old Bulawayo on a date to be agreed upon and announced. This will be purely cultural event that is inclusive.Government is struggling trying to sort its house politically, economically and in development issues. The Ndebele people need to support this endeavour by not interfering with government programs, but just focus for a short time on their identity that was destroyed during the history of events, some of which are outlined above; and the political Party activities and politicians that have done their part in dividing us. People are encouraged to keep their political Party cards and positions during this period of reckoning. The current Government is telling people that Devolution is coming to Provinces. The people of this region need to take time-off to prepare themselves for the devolution that is said to be coming. However, the definition of the type of devolution needs to be spelt out clearly to the people so that each Province prepares itself to make sure this Government Program succeeds. There could be serious issues that need to be done for people in our Province to own, control and exploit the resources for the benefit of the people of and in Matabeleland and Midlands. It might assist Government to engage people to hear their expectations and prepare them to embrace this.The memorial for the disappearance of King Lobengula and his Ascension to Power should be seen as a contribution to turning things around for the positive welfare of the people of this Umthwakazi nation and a clear expression that this region can contribute positively to nation building. The backbone to the national transformation should be Ubuntu and built in should be the unfettered practice of our culture, traditions and unity of purpose.Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market (Type: 0.5g, 1.0g, Others; Application: Congenital Fibrinogen Deficiency, Surgical Procedures) - Global Industry Analysis, Market Size, Opportunities and Forecast, 2018 - 2025



LOS ANGELES, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Acumen Research and Consulting, a global provider of market research studies, in a recently published report titled  Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market (Type: 0.5g, 1.0g, Others; Application: Congenital Fibrinogen Deficiency, Surgical Procedures)  Global Industry Analysis, Market Size, Opportunities and Forecast, 2018 - 2025, estimates that global human fibrinogen concentrate market is expected to reach the market value of around $1.4 billion by 2025 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of around 5.8% in terms of revenue during the period 2018  2025.

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The market will be driven by growing events where fibrinogen tests are encouraged, namely, consolidate stroke, liver ailments, hemophilia, flammable illnesses, and others. As demonstrated by National Hemophilia Foundation, New York, U.S., factor I deficiency, which fuses afibrinogenemia, dysfibrinogenemia, or hypofibrinogenemia has visible occurrence in 2 individuals for every million in the U.S. On the other hand, liver threatening development also assembles the risk of hemostasis, as it conveys a huge part of coagulating segments and inhibitors. Furthermore, it similarly makes diverse proteins related with fibrinolysis. In 2012, it has been assessed that around 120,000 people were encountering liver threat and unsurprising to rise exponentially. This exponential development of liver malady will in turn expand the market growth of human fibrinogen concentrate market globally. Notwithstanding, certain antagonistic responses to be specific as dyspnea, blood vessel thrombosis, regurgitating, chills, queasiness, and pneumonic embolism hamper the market development. Diagnostics industry is driven by a noteworthy suppliers and traders over the globe. This has helped in tremendous market infiltration of fibrinogen tests, especially in small and rising economies where the prevalence of couple of afflictions, for example, are threatening the development. The fibrinogen test is anticipated to lessen up cost in the light of making development, and extending opportunities which ultimately act as a boosting aspect for human fibrinogen concentrate market in near future.

Although factor I is documented for its mechanisms concerned in each primary and secondary homeostasis, its function area is way more extensive. So far, human factor I level has been rumored to be related to several factors, together with patient characteristics like sex, age and BMI, similarly as indicators like cancer presence, surgical intumescence, large hemorrhage, intromission, plasma transfusion, and administration of hemocoagulase [717]. The current study analyzed attainable predictors of plasma factor I level to spot risk factors for surgical factor I deficiency which could curb the growth of the market.

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Regional Analysis

The study by Acumen Research shows that North America, most noticeably the United States, held the prime position in human fibrinogen concentrate market in 2017, followed by the Europe which is slightly behind NA in terms of volume and value. China, India, and Japan additionally hold a conspicuous share and are relied upon to proceed with its development through the determining time range. Southeast Asia is foreseen to quicken its pace over the coming time because of more technological progression in rising economies. Additionally, emerged economies comprise of latest diagnostics machines which is a significant aspect that they will keep on administering the market all through the assessed years.

Insights on Market Segments

Global human fibrinogen concentrate market is segmented by type, application and geography. Based on different types, the market is segmented into 0.5g, 1.0g, and other. Also, application is further bifurcated into congenital fibrinogen deficiency and surgical procedures. Based on geography market is further classified into North America, Europe, China, India, Japan, Southeast Asia, ROW.

Congenital Fibrinogen Deficiency Held Largest Share In Human Market in 2017

Congenital fibrinogen deficiency segment held the most notable share in human fibrinogen market in 2017, owing to the factors such as occurrences of afibrinogenemia which at present is 1 in a million. Hypo-and dysfibrinogenemia are most probably found in both genders and are more consecutive. Moreover, in any age, fibrinogen deficiency can be detected but youths are more prone to these diseases consistently in the neonatal period. Due to the use of fibrinogen in treatment of hemorrhages it is always recommended utilizing toughened plasma if fibrinogen is not available. Routine prophylaxis is exercise to disenchant in case of premature births if fibrinogen detected in early phase in pregnancy. Consequently, holding the prime piece of the overall industry and is foreseen to keep up its predominance over the forecasting period.

Key Players

The market is focused with various principle players working in comparable geographies, with modest item separation. Moreover the foreign players need to fight with domestic players who offer practically identical things at more affordable rates. The domestic players furthermore approach a strong dissemination channel which causes them compete with global players.

Some of the important players operating in the global human fibrinogen concentrate market, profiled in the report include, LFB Group, Shanghai RAAS, CSL Behring, Greencross, Hualan Biological Engineering, Shanghai RAAS, Harbin Pacific Biopharmaceutical, Shanghai XinXing Medical, Boya among others.

Besides, Human fibrinogen concentrate, produced by CSL Behring, is a very purified, lyophilized fibrinogen (coagulation factor I) powder produced from human plasma.

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Table of Content

Chapter 1. Industry Overview of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate

1.1 Definition and Specifications of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate

1.1.1 Definition of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate

1.1.2 Specifications of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate

1.2 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Segment by Types

1.2.1 Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Production and Growth Rate Comparison by Types (2013-2025)

1.2.2 Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Production Market Share by Types in 2017

1.2.3 0.5g

1.2.4 1.0g

1.2.5 1.5g

1.2.6 2.0g

1.3 Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Segment by Applications

1.3.1 Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Consumption Comparison by Applications (2013-2025)

1.3.2 Congenital Fibrinogen Deficiency

1.3.3 Surgical Procedures

1.4 Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market by Regions

1.4.1 Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Size and Growth Rate Comparison by Regions (2013-2025)

1.4.2 North America Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Status and Prospect (2013-2025)

1.4.3 China Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Status and Prospect (2013-2025)

1.4.4 Europe Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Status and Prospect (2013-2025)

1.4.5 Japan Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Status and Prospect (2013-2025)

1.4.6 India Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Status and Prospect (2013-2025)

1.4.7 Southeast Asia Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Status and Prospect (2013-2025)

1.5 Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Size

1.5.1 Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Revenue Status and Outlook (2013-2025)

1.5.2 Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Capacity, Production Status and Outlook (2013-2025)

Chapter 2. Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate

2.1 Raw Material and Suppliers

2.1.1 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate

2.1.2 Raw Materials

2.1.2.1 Labor Cost

2.1.3 Manufacturing Expenses

2.2 Manufacturing Process Analysis of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate

2.3 Industry Chain Structure of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate

Chapter 3. Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate

3.1 Capacity and Commercial Production Date of Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Major Manufacturers in 2017

3.2 Manufacturing Plants Distribution of Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Major Manufacturers in 2017

3.3 R&D Status and Technology Source of Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Major Manufacturers in 2017

3.4 Raw Materials Sources Analysis of Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Major Manufacturers in 2017

Chapter 4. Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Overall Market

4.1 2013-2018E Overall Market Analysis

4.2 Capacity Analysis

4.2.1 2013-2018E Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Capacity and Growth Rate Analysis

4.2.2 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Capacity Analysis (Company Segment)

4.3 Sales Analysis

4.3.1 2013-2018E Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales and Growth Rate Analysis

4.3.2 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales Analysis (Company Segment)

4.4 Sales Price Analysis

4.4.1 2013-2018E Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales Price

4.4.2 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales Price Analysis (Company Segment)

Chapter 5. Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Regional Market Analysis

5.1 North America Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Analysis

5.1.1 North America Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Overview

5.1.2 North America 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Local Supply, Import, Export, Local Consumption Analysis

5.1.3 North America 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales Price Analysis

5.1.4 North America 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Share Analysis

5.2 China Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Analysis

5.2.1 China Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Overview

5.2.2 China 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Local Supply, Import, Export, Local Consumption Analysis

5.2.3 China 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales Price Analysis

5.2.4 China 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Share Analysis

5.3 Europe Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Analysis

5.3.1 Europe Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Overview

5.3.2 Europe 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Local Supply, Import, Export, Local Consumption Analysis

5.3.3 Europe 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales Price Analysis

5.3.4 Europe 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Share Analysis

5.4 Southeast Asia Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Analysis

5.4.1 Southeast Asia Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Overview

5.4.2 Southeast Asia 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Local Supply, Import, Export, Local Consumption Analysis

5.4.3 Southeast Asia 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales Price Analysis

5.4.4 Southeast Asia 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Share Analysis

5.5 Japan Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Analysis

5.5.1 Japan Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Overview

5.5.2 Japan 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Local Supply, Import, Export, Local Consumption Analysis

5.5.3 Japan 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales Price Analysis

5.5.4 Japan 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Share Analysis

5.6 India Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Analysis

5.6.1 India Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Overview

5.6.2 India 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Local Supply, Import, Export, Local Consumption Analysis

5.6.3 India 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales Price Analysis

5.6.4 India 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Share Analysis

Chapter 6. Global 2013-2018Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Segment Market Analysis (by Type)

6.1 Global 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales by Type

6.2 Different Types Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Product Interview Price Analysis

6.3 Different Types Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Product Driving Factors Analysis

6.3.1 0.5gHuman Fibrinogen Concentrate Growth Driving Factor Analysis

6.3.1.1.1 Driving Factors-

6.3.2 1.0gHuman Fibrinogen Concentrate Growth Driving Factor Analysis

6.3.2.1.1 Driving Factors-

6.3.3 Other Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Growth Driving Factor Analysis

6.3.3.1.1 Driving Factors-

Chapter 7. Global 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Segment Market Analysis (by Application)

7.1 Global 2013-2018E Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Consumption by Application

7.1.1 Different Application Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Product Interview Price Analysis

7.2 Different Application Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Product Driving Factors Analysis

7.2.1 Congenital Fibrinogen Deficiency Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Growth Driving Factor Analysis

7.2.1.1.1 Driving Factors-

7.2.2 Surgical Procedures Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Growth Driving Factor Analysis

7.2.2.1.1 Driving Factors-

Chapter 8. Major Manufacturers Analysis of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate

8.1 CSL Behring

8.1.1 Company Profile

8.1.2 Product Picture and Specifications

8.1.3 CSL Behring 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales, Ex-factory Price(USD/vile), Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis

8.1.4 CSL Behring 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Business Region Distribution Analysis

8.2 LFB Group

8.2.1 Company Profile

8.2.2 Product Picture and Specifications

8.2.3 LFB Group 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis

8.2.4 LFB Group 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Business Region Distribution Analysis

8.3 Shanghai RAAS

8.3.1 Company Profile

8.3.2 Product Picture and Specifications

8.3.3 Shanghai RAAS 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis

8.3.4 Shanghai RAAS 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Business Region Distribution Analysis

8.4 Hualan Biological Engineering

8.4.1 Company Profile

8.4.2 Product Picture and Specifications

8.4.3 Hualan Biological Engineering 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis

8.4.4 Hualan Biological Engineering 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Business Region Distribution Analysis

8.5 Octapharma AG

8.5.1 Company Profile

8.5.2 Product Picture and Specifications

8.5.3 Octapharma AG 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis

8.5.4 Octapharma AG 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Business Region Distribution Analysis

8.6 Greencross

8.6.1 Company Profile

8.6.2 Product Picture and Specifications

8.6.3 Greencross 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis

8.6.4 Greencross2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Business Region Distribution Analysis

8.7 Shanghai XinXing Medical

8.7.1 Company Profile

8.7.2 Product Picture and Specifications

8.7.3 Shanghai XinXing Medical 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis

8.7.4 Shanghai XinXing Medical 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Business Region Distribution Analysis

8.8 Boya

8.8.1 Company Profile

8.8.2 Product Picture and Specifications

8.8.3 Boya 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis

8.8.4 Boya 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Business Region Distribution Analysis

8.9 Harbin Pacific Biopharmaceutical

8.9.1 Company Profile

8.9.2 Product Picture and Specifications

8.9.3 Harbin Pacific Biopharmaceutical 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales, Ex-factory Price, Revenue, Gross Margin Analysis

8.9.4 Harbin Pacific Biopharmaceutical 2017 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Business Region Distribution Analysis

Chapter 9. Development Trend of Analysis of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market

9.1 Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Trend Analysis

9.1.1 Global 2018-2025Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Size (Volume and Value) Forecast

9.1.2 Global 2018-2025Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Sales Price Forecast

9.2 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Regional Market Trend

9.2.1 North America 2018-2025Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Consumption Forecast

9.2.2 China 2018-2025Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Consumption Forecast

9.2.3 Europe 2018-2025Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Consumption Forecast

9.2.4 Southeast Asia 2018-2025Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Consumption Forecast

9.2.5 Japan 2018-2025Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Consumption Forecast

9.2.6 India 2018-2025Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Consumption Forecast

9.3 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Trend (Product Type)

9.4 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Trend (Application)

Chapter 10. Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Marketing Type Analysis

10.1 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Regional Marketing Type Analysis

10.1.1 Marketing Channel

10.1.2 Direct Marketing

10.1.3 Indirect Marketing

10.1.4 Marketing Channel Development Trend

10.1.5 Market Positioning

10.1.6 Pricing Strategy

10.1.7 Brand Strategy

10.2 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate International Trade Type Analysis

10.3 Traders or Distributors with Contact Information of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate by Regions

10.4 Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Supply Chain Analysis

10.4.1 Raw material suppliers

10.4.2 Human fibrinogen concentrates manufacturers

10.4.3 Distribution channel

10.4.4 End-use industries

Chapter 11. Consumers Analysis of Human Fibrinogen Concentrate

11.1 Consumer 1 Analysis

Chapter 12. Conclusion of the Global Human Fibrinogen Concentrate Market Professional Survey Report 2016

Chapter 13. Methodology and Data Source

13.1 Methodology/Research Approach

13.1.1 Research Programs/Design

13.1.2 Market Size Estimation

13.1.3 Market Breakdown and Data Triangulation

13.2 Data Source

13.2.1 Secondary Sources

13.2.2 Primary Sources

13.3 Disclaimer

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Would like to place an order or any question, please feel free to contact at sales@acumenresearchandconsulting.com | +1 407 915 4157(Bloomberg) -- Russias space program took a step toward repairing its reputation for reliability after a failed launch added to concern over unprecedented foreign competition for getting into orbit.

On Monday, the Roscosmos agency sent the first crew into space on a Soyuz rocket since a booster failure on a similar model forced Russian Alexey Ovchinin and American Nick Hague to abandon their mission minutes after liftoff in October. They made the first emergency landing in the craft since 1975.

NASA Associate Administrator William Gerstenmaier was on hand for the launch at Kazakhstans Baikonur Cosmodrome to ferry Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, U.S. astronaut Anne McClain and Canadian David Saint-Jacques to the International Space Station. The crew confirmed that it safely reached orbit according to a live feed on NASAs website, and plans to link up to the ISS early Tuesday in Moscow.

The successful mission wont dispel the storm clouds on the horizon for Russias space program, however. Recent setbacks at Roscosmos, including a series of failed launches and accusations of misspending, have tarnished its Soviet legacy as the first manned space program. Adding to the woes, the program now faces the prospect of reduced revenue as a seven-year monopoly on ferrying people to the space station comes to an end.

They are obviously concerned about losing income from sending U.S. astronauts into orbit, Gerstenmaier said in an interview in Moscow before traveling to Baikonur. They share some of the same problems we do -- theres a finite amount in the budget in our countries and space flight is part of the discretionary budget.

Cheaper Rockets

Billionaire Elon Musks Space Explorations Technologies Corp. and Boeing Co. have contracts to deliver astronauts to the ISS starting next year under NASAs Commercial Crew project. A raft of start-ups around the world also use cheaper rockets to put slimmed-down satellites into space, presenting a challenge to Roscosmoss lucrative launch business.

Story continues

Roscosmoss press service declined to comment on the potential loss of revenue from NASA. It has earned some $2.6 billion from the U.S. for carrying astronauts and equipment to the ISS since NASA retired its fleet of space shuttles in 2011.

Russias market share for rocket technology worldwide fell slightly in 2017, which Roscosmos blamed on sanctions, the weak ruble and increased competition, according to its annual report published on Friday. It singled out SpaceX for allegedly undercutting the market thanks to U.S. government assistance.

Reliant on Soviet technology developed decades ago, Russia may find its increasingly overtaken in the new space race. While NASA has a contract to send astronauts to the ISS with Roscosmos until February 2020, it will stop paying for seats on the Soyuz after that if the Commercial Crew program goes to plan, Gerstenmaier said.

Basically Stolen

The windfall funding from the U.S. hasnt always been spent wisely. Alexei Kudrin, the head of the countrys Audit Chamber, told Russias lower house of parliament in June that he found 760 billion rubles ($11.4 billion) of financial violations in Roscosmoss books.

Several billion have been spent, basically stolen, that we are currently investigating, Kudrin said in an interview aired Nov. 25 on state-run Rossiya 24 TV. Roscosmos is the champion in terms of the scale of such violations.

Kudrins criticism related to a 2017 audit, Roscosmos told the Tass news service. President Vladimir Putin appointed Dmitry Rogozin, a former deputy prime minister, as the new head of Roscosmos in May this year.

The agency has faced a series of other problems. A critical defect was discovered on a launchpad of its newest cosmodrome, Vostochny, in Russias Far East, RBC newspaper reported. Separately, a commission is still studying the cause of a mysterious hole found on a Russian module of the ISS. A spacewalk is planned for Dec. 11 to investigate the issue further, though a final report isnt expected until February, according to Gerstenmaier.

Even so, the Soyuz remains the most-used launch vehicle in history and Roscosmos has had successful unmanned launches since the failure in October, which it blamed on a sensor that was damaged during assembly.

We see tremendous advantages in us working together and cooperating, Gerstenmaier said. If the two agencies also pursue dissimilar capabilities, or theres even a little competition in some areas, thats healthy too, he said.

(Updates with launch details from second paragraph.)

--With assistance from Stepan Kravchenko.

To contact the reporter on this story: Jake Rudnitsky in Moscow at jrudnitsky@bloomberg.net

To contact the editors responsible for this story: Torrey Clark at tclark8@bloomberg.net, Tony Halpin

For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com

2018 Bloomberg L.P.Noted short-seller Gabriel Grego, the founder of long-short hedge fund Quintessential Capital, revealed a scathing short of cannabis company Aphria (APHA).

This presentation is not about cannabis, Grego said, before adding, We believe theres something sinister happening in this company.

Gabriel Grego shorts Aphria, a cannabis company, at the Kase Learning Shorting Conference.

At the Kase Learning Shorting Conference, Grego delivered a 129-slide presentation entitled The Black Hole. His thesis is that Aphria is a scheme to funnel money from retail investors into the pocket of shareholders.

Grego presented a case of a company thats gone on a $700 million-plus Canadian dollars acquisition spree in the last year. During his research, he found that the company has acquired other companies with almost worthless value, little or no sales, with registered offices in dilapidated buildings, and with some of the licenses that are only conditional.

They seem to have bought themselves an amount of value for that $700-plus million thats a fraction of that value, Grego told Yahoo Finance. But more worryingly, we found what seems to be like a systemic approach to try and hide the involvement of people who are insiders of the company. In other words, these acquisitions get made from shell companies that are theoretically at arms length, but we can see very clearly there was the presence of some of the companys insiders.

Shares of Aphria dropped a much as 20% in the pre-market.

Allegations that have been made by the short seller Quintessential Capital in the report that they published this morning are false and defamatory. The Company is preparing a comprehensive response to provide shareholders with the facts and is also pursuing all available legal options against Quintessential Capital, Aphria said in a statement to Yahoo Finance.

At the conference in May, Grego made a name for himself with his short of Folli Follie on the Athens Exchange. After exposing the company as a fraud, regulators halted the stock in less than two weeks and it hasnt traded since.



Julia La Roche is a finance reporter at Yahoo Finance. Follow her on Twitter.Any relief Canadian officials felt over Friday's signing of NAFTA may fade away, as U.S. President Donald Trump announced he's taking a risky all-or-nothing approach to getting the new trade pact ratified by Congress.

As he left the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Trump told reporters on board Air Force One that he plans to terminate the current NAFTA agreement, meaning Congress will be forced to make a choice: either ratify the new agreement, or have no agreement with Canada and Mexico at all.

"I'll be terminating it within a relatively short period of time. We get rid of NAFTA. It's been a disaster for the United States," Trump told reporters.

Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty Images

If Trump follows through on his plan, once he starts the formal termination process it will give U.S. lawmakers a six-month window to approve the deal.

"That'll be terminated so Congress will have a choice of the USMCA or pre-NAFTA, which worked very well," he said.

The news broke as Canada's prime minister and foreign affairs minister were on board an overnight flight with Canadian diplomats and reporters, also leaving the G20 summit.

When the plane landed in Miami to refuel at 4:30 a.m. Sunday, a senior Canadian official downplayed any concern about the move, saying this is "no surprise."

"The U.S. domestic process is their own, and it would be inappropriate for Canada to intervene," the official said, speaking on background.

Getting the new NAFTA through Congress may be an uphill battle for the Trump administration, as Democrats won control of the House of Representatives in the fall midterm elections.

The Canadian delegation's departure from Buenos Aires was delayed Saturday night, with the prime minister's plane forced to wait on the tarmac, so that Air Force One could depart first.

Justin Trudeau returns home amid domestic criticism that he signed the new trade deal, while U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum remain in place.Delegates sang and danced after it was announced on November 29 that the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization would inscribe reggae into its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The Jamaican delegation, led by Jamaicas Minister of Culture, Olivia Grange, thanked UNESCO for the inscription before inviting the room to sing along with Bob Marleys song One Love.

Georgian wrestling, Jordanian singing and Irish hurling were also inscribed onto UNESCOs intangible heritage list, along with rituals from Japan and Kazakhstan. Credit: UNESCO via StoryfulJERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels on Monday to discuss Iran and other regional issues. Pompeo, like Netanyahu, is an outspoken critic of Iran's nuclear program and he condemned on Saturday the latest missile test by the Islamic republic. "I look forward to discussing with you how we can together curb Iran's aggression in the region, in Syria, in Iraq, in Lebanon and elsewhere and to continue our efforts to achieve peace and security for everyone," Netanyahu said at the start of the meeting, according to a statement from his office. Netanyahu often uses meetings with international officials to push his agenda of halting what he describes as Iran's nuclear ambitions. Israel also sees Tehran's moves to set up bases in neighboring Syria as a regional threat, along with the heavily armed Iran-backed militia Hezbollah in Lebanon. The meeting was arranged last week, his office said. (Writing by Ori Lewis; Editing by Paul Tait and Peter Graff)An internal Transport Canada document warns of the safety risks posed by exhausted crew members on trains, even as Alberta pursues a plan to ratchet up already-booming shipments of oil-by-rail.

Federal work rules in the rail industry, dating from 2002, "are not effective in preventing fatigue due to work schedules and do not adequately mitigate the risks of fatigue," says the May 2018 memo.

" fatigue is managed by a patchwork of approaches, most of which are outside TC's [Transport Canada's] control."

The memo, obtained by CBC News under the Access to Information Act, says current regulations on mandatory work-rest periods in the rail industry fail to account for major advances in the science of fatigue over the last 15 years.

Jacques Boissinot/Canadian Press

And it notes sleep-related fatigue has been cited by the Transportation Safety Board as a contributing factor in 19 major freight train accidents since 1994.

The board said the lone crew member assigned to the oil train that exploded in Lac-Megantic, Que., in July 2013  killing 47 people  had been awake for over 17 hours when he parked the train, and that fatigue undermined his judgment in dealing with a troublesome locomotive.

The board has been so concerned about the persistent threat of train crew fatigue that in 2016 it placed the issue for the first time on its watch list of safety risks left unresolved by Transport Canada, where it remains today.

The amount of oil shipped by rail has doubled since the Lac-Megantic tragedy  from an average of 135,658 barrels a day in July 2013 to a record 269,829 barrels a day in September 2018. That's putting pressure on railways to find enough crews, locomotives and tracks to do the work, when most are already committed to moving grain and other freight.

Mobile pipelines

Alberta Premier Rachel Notley recently announced her government plans to buy two new unit trains that together can eventually transport an additional 120,000 barrels a day. A lack of pipeline capacity, which has squeezed Western Canadian crude shipments and pushed down prices, has pressed railways into a growing role as mobile pipelines.

Story continues

"Effective fatigue management is difficult in the rail industry due to the challenges posed by the 24/7 operating environment and the remoteness of work locations," says the Transport Canada memo, written by Jacqueline Booth of the rail safety division.

The long periods of wakefulness are compounded by night shifts, crew availability, unpredictable schedules and emergency situations that very often extend the duty day and limit the operating crew's ability to obtain adequate rest. - Internal Transport Canada memo on fatigue in the rail industry

"It is often problematic to replace a fatigued crew and the work has to continue until the train reaches a rail yard or station.

"The long periods of wakefulness are compounded by night shifts, crew availability, unpredictable schedules and emergency situations that very often extend the duty day and limit the operating crew's ability to obtain adequate rest."

The document suggests the problem won't be fixed soon.

The department has hired an outside consultant, Circadian Inc., to conduct an $88,000 study of how fatigue affects rail workers, but the report is not due until next February.

Transport Canada also says it plans stakeholder consultations over the coming winter to consider an updated regulatory framework to manage fatigue risks, even as booming oil-by-rail shipments are headed to new highs.

Under the current safety regime, railways themselves must manage their own work-rest scheduling for crews by taking into account fatigue science. (They are specifically exempt from Canada Labour Code rules that set maximum hours of work.)

Steve Callaghan, an industry expert who testified as a witness at the Lac-Megantic trial arising from the crash, has called the regime a "farce," which allows cost considerations to trump safety. He was cited in a new book about the disaster by Bruce Campbell  The Lac-Megantic Rail Disaster: Public Betrayal, Justice Denied.

Workers raise concerns

The Transportation Safety Board itself says that, since 2011, it has formally notified Transport Canada 16 times after railway employees raised concerns about fatigue on the job.

An industry group, the Railway Association of Canada (RAC), says it works with its members to promote a safety culture, which includes addressing fatigue.

The association's "medical advisory group  works with members to better understand the factors that may contribute to fatigue and mitigate any risks to operations and employees," said spokesman Michael Gullo.

"RAC believes that fatigue is a matter requiring empirical evidence and a scientific approach to identifying and delivering effective solutions to address fatigue in the workplace."

CBC

Transport Canada declined to indicate when Canadians can expect to see beefed-up regulations governing fatigue in the rail industry.

"Pending regulatory changes, the department will continue to manage fatigue and fitness for duty through its ongoing oversight activities," said spokesperson Sau Sau Liu.

"We will not hesitate to take enforcement action or any other measures to address risks between now and when regulatory changes are made."CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via OTC PR WIRE -- Following multiple presentations from Mobicard, Inc. to Think Latitude Inc. and multiple rounds of negotiations, the two parties have come to an agreement that will (once executed) provide a path forward to pursue a continued relationship and advance the technology of Mobicard together.



The strategic plan to build a cross-functional application, that places an emphasis on creating digital business cards to share and network with other individuals, uses the newest technology strategies for the future of the Mobicard platform. The total cost for the enterprise application will be $145,000 and Think Latitude will become an equity partner upon completion of the Statement of Work. In accordance with your success is our success philosophy, Think Latitude will be issued shares of Mobicard (PTOP), which equates to 15% of the Mobicard equity with an anti-dilution clause. This partnership ensures that Think Latitude will work towards Mobicards success with a vested interest in Mobicard, Inc.s business.

Misha Shah, COO of Think Latitude states, Our executive team is both honored and invested in moving the current landscape of Mobicard to the next level. Throughout the course of the year, we have had numerous meetings and design discussions to truly understand the essence of how the platform is envisioned and what our development team is going to achieve in the coming months. With a significant equity partnership with Mobicard, Think Latitude can help cater the enterprise platform to realize scalable milestones over the course of the coming months. Think Latitude will also be granted a Technology Advisory role on Mobicards Advisory Board to provide advice on current technology, new technology insights, advancements, and general climate of technology as it relates to the Mobicard landscape of business.

Andy Sajnani, CEO of Think Latitude Inc. added, Im excited to serve as the Technology Advisor on the Mobicard advisory board. Being thoroughly involved from the early discussions to the present state of this project has enabled me to take an active role in understanding the business model, and potential of Mobicard which in turn allowed me to assist in choosing the proper technologies to develop their future vision and new platform. While we are taking a phase-based approach to releasing the beta and first version of the platform, our goal is to create a strong landscape that can support many advanced features in future versions to come. As our companies have completed negotiations, we believe this ongoing partnership will continue to foster the Think Latitude-Mobicard relationship while we are progressing through the development phase. I strongly believe that the alignment of our goals will allow the Mobicard platform to experience much success in the coming release.

The Statement of Work and Agreement (SOW) will be executed upon an upfront payment of $25,000 and the signed agreement from Mobicard to Think Latitude. Another $25,000 will be due within the following 60 days of the project kick off date. The remainder of the payments can be made in three subsequent equal installments after 5 weeks, 10 weeks, and 15 weeks of the project.

Through application development, Think Latitude will be responsible for the design and implementation of Mobicard applications new platform with the newest coding languages on six major levels once the SOW is executed. The six major levels include; one iOS application, one Android application, one web application, one master admin portal, one organizational admin portal, and one individual analytics portal, which will be tied into the interface of the user application. Additionally, Think Latitude will cover the landing webpage, quality assurance testing and inherent services such as server architecture setup, scaling, load balancing, database setup, application deployment, and bug fix support.

The period of performance and first beta release of the new platform is projected for approximate March release, with the start date contingent upon the day Joshua Sodaitis, CEO of Mobicard (PTOP), accepts the Statement of work and sends the first payment to Think Latitude. While this timeframe is too short to complete the entire enterprise-level platform, the Think Latitude Development team will complete the majority of the features within this timeframe as a beta application that can be released to the market. Some features may continue to be worked on and releases will still be loaded as enhancements are made until full completion. Any modifications or extensions will be requested through Think Latitude and Mobicard for review and discussion. Extension guidelines may occur due to resource allocation issues, scope requirement changes, additional services needed, and or QA testing delays from the client releases, which will need to be amended into the existing SOW. Extensions due to scope changes may also incur an additional cost payable by Mobicard.

CEO of Mobicard Joshua Sodaitis said, I am excited for a partnership with Think Latitude and believe the final conclusion to the negotiation process will be advantageous for both companies in the long term, specifically the equity stake gives the core businesses product developers an added incentive to add value and ideas to differentiate and elevate Mobicard from our competitors. I chose Think Latitude after extensive research and I think they are exactly the right partner to make Mobicard the superior choice in our market. Josh went on to say, Even though we have not executed final documents or sent the 1st payment, Think Latitude is excited to get started and already have their senior architect developers laying out the framing of the project. They expressed to me they know its not a matter of if but when we return the SOW. Disclosing the terms of this agreement so that I can communicate to shareholders the use of proceeds to accredited investors that we will seek new funding from. I will be hosting a conference call for a number of interested parties with the intention to obtain funding that will ensure the project is financed through completion as well as aid the company in operating capital and completing the financials to bring them current. The idea will be that each interested party can contribute part of the total so that Mobicard does not have to take on any toxic debt. Our goal is to have the final agreement and first payment executed after our corporate council securities attorney structures the equity and anti-dilution clause and get the project started by Monday of next week.

In Addition, Mobicards CFO James Bento giving a financials progress report told the CEO that it has been progressing according to the proper GAAP & PCAOB accredited standards and that the audit review firm was going through a confirmation phase for fiscal year ending 9/30/2015.

The accountants have turned a corner and as per the agreement with Mobicard have completed phase one. Mobicard in compliance with the terms of their agreement with the accountants has sent an additional payment to cover completion of work associated with the fiscal year ending 9/30/2016 to be delivered to the auditors for review upon completion. A conference call between the accountants and Mobicard discussing multiple topics including, but not limited to, the Code2Action note in (PTOP) detailed in an 8(k) filing with the SEC in 2015 for valuation purposes necessary for the auditors is scheduled for today (Monday 12/3/2018).

The implementation of the vision of the future growth of Mobicard and the terms of the SOW should pave the way for long term shareholder profitability.

Safe Harbor Statement:

This release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Company invokes the protections of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements regarding our expected future financial position, results of operations, cash flows, financing plans, business strategies, products and services, competitive positions, growth opportunities, plans and objectives of management for future operations, as well as statements that include words such as "anticipate," "if," "believe," "plan," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "could," "should," "will," and other similar expressions are forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control, which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from anticipated results, performance, or achievements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include those set forth in our filings at www.sec.gov . The company is no longer a fully reporting SEC filing company. We are under no obligation to (and expressly disclaim any such obligation to) update or alter our forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.This week, representatives from more than 150 countries are meeting in Katowice, Poland, for COP 24, or the 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate.

Their goal: to find ways to reduce carbon emissions in order to combat the effects of climate change.

Last week, the United States released its National Climate Assessment, which was largely buried in the news as a result of its release over the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday. Its conclusions were in line with those of the UN and other climate organizations: global climate is changing, and "the global warming of the past 50 years is primarily due to human activities, predominantly the burning of fossil fuels."

That same day, U.S. President Donald Trump said he doesn't believe the report.

On Thursday, the UN World Meteorological Organization said global temperatures are headed for a rise of 3 to 5 C this century, far above the target of 1.5 to 2 C.

The message seems to be clear: Earth's climate is rapidly changing as a result of human activity. So how is it that some people are still reluctant to acknowledge it?

David Gray/Reuters

According to some psychologists, there are a number of reasons, including the prevalence of deceptive or erroneous information about the topic.

"But you're also getting a lot of misinformation, what we call agnotology  misleading information and false information  from vested interests," said Michael Ranney, professor of education at the University of California, Berkeley's Department of Psychology. "And the internet, for decades, has been offering information that is misleading."

And some recent studies suggest that false news spreads faster than true or objective news.

One of the reasons people might be sharing that information  which they may not recognize as false  is that it represents their worldview  a phenomenon called confirmation bias.

'Information deficit'

Another important thing to consider, Ranney says, is decreasing "information deficit," or lack of knowledge. To this end, he created the website How Global Warming Works, which provides short videos explaining the mechanisms of global warming. And that, he believes, makes a difference with some people.

Story continues

"Even in places like Berkeley, we almost tripled their understanding of the mechanisms of global warming, and that increased their acceptance of global warming," Ranney says of one study conducted at his university.

"One high school, the students knew so little about global warming, we increased their knowledge 17 times  and they also increased their acceptance."

But Canadian Matto Mildenberger, an assistant professor of political science at the University of California, Santa Barbara, doesn't place that much faith in the "information deficit" theory.

"Information deficit may matter at the margins," says Mildenberger, who also who contributes to Yale University's Program on Climate Change Communication.

"It's not that information doesn't matter, but it strikes me that the way in which we need to solve the problem of climate communication is primarily by having trusted individuals  and by that, I don't mean scientists. I mean people in local communities  be climate advocates and climate messengers to their communities."

What motivates denial?

There's something else that may be at play at the subconscious level that allows us to disregard the evidence that's in front of us.

"A big part isn't the experience; it's the motivation," said Paul Thagard, professor emeritus at the University of Waterloo's Department of Philosophy, who specializes in cognitive science.

"Psychologists talk a lot about 'motivated inference'  when people have strong motivations, they're very selective in the sort of evidence they look for."

Even though there is consensus that climate change is occurring and that humans are exacerbating it, there are still people  including politicians  who refuse to acknowledge the evidence.

Shizuo Kambayashi/Associated Press

"The motivations vary depending on who you are," says Thagard. "If you're a conservative politician, you just don't want to believe [in climate change], because if there really is climate change caused by human activity, then there has to be government actions to stop the disastrous results that are probably going to come down the line in 20 or 30 years."

There are other fears: people whose livelihood is dependent on, say, the oil industry, might fear acknowledging climate change will threaten their jobs. Others might resent government taking money out of their pockets in the form of public spending on carbon mitigation efforts.

"But that gets in the way of appreciating the overwhelming scientific evidence that really bad times are coming," Thagard said.

Changing communication

Mildenberger say that, while there is a lot of climate change information out there, communicating it in an effective way is key.

And it's not about painting a doom-and-gloom scenario.

"If you overwhelm people, there's some evidence that they can end up in some fatalistic mindset and feel unempowered," Mildenberger said.

"The trick is to communicate the seriousness of the climate threat  with a sense of empowering people to take action."

A sense of empowerment is something that Ranney cites as well when it comes to acceptance of climate change.

"It's going to become more and more obvious to everyone that global warming is occurring and that it's scary and yet something that we can fix, and should," he said.

"This is not a time to be passive and allow this calamity to happen to us. We can fix this, and we can fix this now."Leading producer-turned-educator and lobbyist, Lord David Puttnam has once again called for a shortening of theatrical release windows. As recently as May this year, Puttnam had suggested a six-week exclusive period for theatrical releases. He now says that 30 days is ideal.

Puttnam was in conversation on Sunday with Singaporean filmmaker Boo Junfeng (Apprentice) at the ongoing Singapore International Film Festival.

There is this ridiculous holdback on product, said Puttnam. Ideally, we should, very rapidly, move towards a 30-day holdback. After which (films) should be available on whatever medium people want.

Puttnam was scornful of the idea of a film being available in cinemas for just three weeks, before making way for newer releases, but then not being available to audiences for the next 12-14 weeks when they need to be re-launched in other formats. All that people want to see, has disappeared. Then, youre surprised when people pirate it, said Puttnam. They cant get it in the cinema, they still cant get it on the mobile, theyve to wait for three months to watch it. Its ridiculous. So, the industry has a lot of thinking to do.

Puttnam has film producer credits including The Duellists, Midnight Express, Chariots of Fire, Local Hero, and The Killing Fields. After hanging up his producing boots, he has been involved in a range of activities, including being the U.K.s cultural envoy to Southeast Asia. He has close ties with Singapore  the film school at Lasalle is named after him, and he regularly delivers masterclasses there.

Talking about the current state of the Singapore film industry, Puttnam said, I think there is just a sense of success is possible, but it now needs a push. I really think its taken too long to come to the party. The moment is now. Actually, the moment is past now, the moment was two years ago.

Puttnam said that the Singapore industry needs to grow in self-confidence, and that neighboring Southeast Asian nations like Vietnam are making faster progress.

Story continues

Puttnam also spoke out against red carpet events. As an industry, Im very worried that weve become red carpet obsessed, Puttnam said. Its got nothing to do with making movies. Puttnam said that making cinema is a lengthy and painful process and the red carpet is fleeting. He described red carpet pageants as 90-second thrills.

Related stories

Silver Screen Winner Imtiaz Ahmed Cuts in Razor for Bangladesh 'Paradise'

SGIFF: Shorts Panorama Showcases Diversity of Singapore Talent

'Crazy Rich Asians' Stars Kick Off Singapore Film Festival

Subscribe to Variety Newsletters and Email Alerts!Updates throughout the day at http://calevbenyefuneh. blogspot.com. If you enjoy "Love of the Land", please be a subscriber. Just put your email address in the "Subscribe" box on the upper right-hand corner of the page.Twitter updates at LoveoftheLand as well as our Love of the Land page at Facebook which has additional pieces of interest besides that which is posted on the blog. Also check-out This Ongoing War by Frimet and Arnold Roth. An excellent blog, very important work.

.

..The Warped Mirror..03 December '18..Its often said that Israel is a divisive issue  but Israel-haters from the far-right and the far-left actually find a lot of common ground when it comes to the worlds only Jewish state.So David Duke  described by the ADL as perhaps Americas most well-known racist and anti-Semite  has decreed that no decent person can disagree with Marc Lamont Hills views on Israel. Hill is a far-left anti-Israel activist who thinks the Jewish state too evil to exist and wants it eliminated in favor of a free Palestine from the river to the sea.And while Duke doesnt think too much of Womens March leader and prominent activist Linda Sarsour, he does think shes absolutely right to believe Israel exerts undue influence on US politiciansPhoto - John Sandeman editor of Eternity and Rev Bob Thomas editor of New Life

Initially, Around the Tables one of the Well-Being Australia mission endeavours way back in 2001 held at the Sydney Airport Mercure was bringing six couples mission together for a three day weekend.

Well-Being Australias sponsor Mr Basil Sellers AM met the costs in order that the mission couples might enjoy this weekend.

The consultants for these six couples were Rev Harry Munro missions executive, Rowland Croucher the Pastors Pastor, the late Tom and Laurel Scotland retired missionaries and Sydney lawyer Dr Clive OConnor for a session on mission work and the law.

The key note speaker was Rev Harry Munro who emphasised Never touch the Glory, it belong exclusively to Him.

One of the mission couples was Darren and Rosemary Lawson who at that time were missionaries in Russia and now the Headmaster at the Rockhampton Christian School. Darren was a 1992 Barcelona Olympic road cyclist.

Darren has also become one of the young writer ministry 2019 panellists  these are people who mark the young writers over the first six months to determine the annual awards.

Photo - Community mission art showing

Community

That Around the Tables model which ran for a number of years in Sydney before we relocated from Moruya to Tweed Heads was again reproduced after we established the Laguna Quays Respite for mission respite on the Whitsundays mainland in 2011.

Having established the respite cottage and with Mr Basil Sellers AM assistance we initiated the Basil Sellers Midge Point Art Prize in 2013 which continues to this day and in 2014, an annual business luncheon.

As a member of the Moruya and then the Tweed Heads Chamber of Commerce, the value as a Minister being part of the business community chamber has proven beneficial over all these years.

Midge Point and Bloomsbury areas are not big business areas  rather businessmen and women of local small business and the way to see this happen was to establish it along the lines of Around the Tables.

This proved to be on the money (as it were) and it has now expanded to include a Fancy Dress afternoon and other similar functions.

Photo - Business luncheon

One Day in Melbourne

With the Laguna Quays Respite ministry up and running since 2011 for mission people, it became obvious from discussions with them after their visits, that a very different missions day might be possible specialising in practical mission IT.

2016 the inaugural One Day in Melbourne was held at the Salvation Army Headquarters where we had a series of speakers address:

Platforms

Design

Editing

Social Media

Marketing

Blogging

Again this based on the Around the Tables model established way back in 2001 and its strength into the lives of those attending led to it being held again in 2017 and 2018. The two movers and shakers Rev Bob Thomas and Dr Mark Tronson of One Day in Melbourne have now handed it over to three new leadership people  Peter Brookshaw, John Lemmon and David Goodwin.

The model

Sometimes, just sometimes, good models turn up and following the philosophy of the model produces remarkable outcomes. The Lord touches the hearts of the receivers and a good model provides a welcoming spirit.

Photo - Small group

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LOS ANGELES, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Schall Law Firm , a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces the filing of a class action lawsuit against China Zenix Auto International Limited (China Zenix or the Company) (OTC: ZXAIY NYSE: ZX) for violations of 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.



Investors who purchased the Company's American depositary receipts between October 2, 2015 and June 14, 2018, inclusive (the ''Class Period''), are encouraged to contact the firm before December 31, 2018.

If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate .

We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall, or Sherin Mahdavian, of the Schall Law Firm, 1880 Century Park East, Suite 404, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 424-303-1964, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com , or by email at brian@schallfirm.com .

The class, in this case, has not yet been certified, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member.

According to the Complaint, the Company made false and misleading statements to the market. China Zenixs trading actions in relation to the NYSE Continued Listing Requirements went against its public policy. The Company had inadequate controls over financial reporting. Based on these facts, the Companys public comments were false and materially misleading throughout the class period. When the market learned the truth about China Zenix, investors suffered damages.

Join the case to recover your losses.

The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.

CONTACT:

The Schall Law Firm

Brian Schall, Esq.,

Sherin Mahdavian, Esq.,

www.schallfirm.com

310-301-3335

info@schallfirm.com

SOURCE:

The Schall Law FirmI told Richard, a trader at our daughters farmers market that my wife and I would not be there next Saturday. We were going whale watching, they being on their annual northerly migration from Antarctica.

Richard answered: Isnt evolution fantastic?

Is it? Did it even happen?

The conversation went like this:-

Him: Isnt evolution fantastic?

Me: No but creation is.

Him: Dont know about that.

Me: Richard, evolutionists start with the conclusion that there is no Creator-god and work backwards to find the supporting evidence. Have you heard of Socrates?

Him: Yes.

Me: The Socratic principle states that you follow the evidence to wherever it leads. Court cases follow that path. The admissible evidence leads to the conclusion: eg did he or didnt he do it?

Him: That may be so in court cases but science doesnt work that way.

Me: Oh yes it does. Good science works exactly the same way. It doesnt start with a conclusion although a line of inquiry may begin with an idea, a thought or hunch, a possible explanation. Research then tests that idea seeking to determine whether it is the explanation, the conclusion.

Conversation over

The brief conversation was over. Richard had another commitment.

The Bible clearly says Gods followers should always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. (1 Peter chapter 3 verse 15).

Our hope for what?

True, Richard did not ask me anything about my Jesus-based hope or my creationist worldview. He asked: Isnt evolution fantastic? implying it was an established indisputable fact.

The Christian hope is not: I hope its true, like the small child who says to Mum: I hope Miss Smith is at school today, not knowing whether or not she will be.

Rather, its like the drowning man with a lifesaver swimming through the swell to rescue him. As that lifesaver is the drowning mans only hope, so Jesus is our only hope.

Our hope for what? To spare us from hell, to save us to heaven, and to give us a full life till then.

Richards error

Richard had casually stated in question form what is widely accepted as fact. As if: because it is widely believed therefore its true. In courtroom language that is a non sequitur: it does not follow.

A journalist wrote about US President Trumps second Supreme Court nominee that a view existed that because a woman alleged historical sexual misconduct by the nominee, therefore it was true. That too is an obvious non sequitur.

Neither a widespread belief nor an allegation makes that belief or allegation true.

There is a time for everythinga time to be silent and a time to speak

(Ecclesiastes chapter 3 verses 1 & 7)

Intellectually I could not let Richards blind acceptance silently pass by, there being NO evidence to support the evolutionary mindset. A mountain of speculation, inference and opinion (including supposed expert opinion) is not evidence.

Even staunch evolutionist Oxford University Emeritus Professor Richard Dawkins frankly concedes this is his book The Greatest Show On Earth: The Evidence For Evolution.

Further, adaptation (eg by animals) to a change of environmental conditions does not support the mindset envisaging the transformation of one creature into another distinct animal. Adaptation is just that: not evidence for what it is regularly preached as vis proof.

The Creator

Richards question brought the issue of creation -v- evolution into the conversation, which quickly widens into the origin of everything.

Accordingly, it was legitimate for me to give an answer about the origin of all things although this huge topic was not going to be resolved during a brief chance conversation.

Nevertheless, God tells us to always be prepared to grab the moment.

Ready, willing and able

To be prepared involves being ready, willing and able to give an answer. Prepared is not a religious word but rather one of everyday language.

At the very least, to be ready involves being alert or vigilant to seize the opportunity that presents itself and not lamely say: I wish I had said something. I just stood there.

To be willing at least means to be inclined or disposed, to not shy away from that opportunity to say something meaningful.

And to be able at least involves being sufficiently equipped with adequate knowledge to make a reasonable attempt to respond.

This does not mean we have to be able to argue expertly on every topic. We may have to do some research and get back to that person if possible.

Not good enough

But it is simply not good enough to excuse ourselves by saying: I simply didnt know what to say. We should be able to make a reasonable response rather than simply let obvious error in thinking pass us by.

Do we owe God anything?

We are to: make every effort to add to our faithknowledgeIf we possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep us from being ineffective and unproductive in our knowledge of our LORD Jesus Christ. (2 Peter chapter 1 verses 5-8).

You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be My witnessesto the ends of the earth. (Acts chapter 1 verse 8). We areChrists ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. (2 Corinthians chapter 5 verse 20).

A soft landing

As unworthy as we are, its a very satisfying destination dont you think?

Gavin Lawrie is a retired Barrister and Solicitor from Tweed Heads NSW Australia and author of the book: 'THE EVIDENCE OF EVOLUTION: Uncovering The Faulty Science Of Dawkins' Attack On Creationism'. He is married to Jan with two adult children and they are grandparents.

Gavin Lawrie's previous articles may be viewed at http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/gavin-lawrie.htmlWhere whales are legends.

In her article The Power of Compassion, Elin Kelsey writes about a surprising aspect of one of Earths largest creatures, the humpback whale.

While whales are stereotypically known for being protective of their own, Elin documents a more surprising element of compassion among humpbacks:

They protect other animals.

Numerous photographs and footage showcase the incredible efforts of humpbacks to save the lives of other whales, dolphins and even seals.

While orcas, or killer whales, are notorious mafia of the ocean, the Captain America antics of the humpbacks are just as famous.

Interestingly, the humpbacks use their keen sonar to listen, not for the sound of a victim, but for the sound of an impending attack. As soon as the signal of a hunting pack of orcas reaches their radar, the whales surge to find the battle act.

The vigilante humpbacks will barrel into any fray, and they have been known to surround a victim in a protective circle or to lift a struggling creature onto their chests or backs for safety.

Often, they take disciplinary measures into their own flippers, actively circling, shoving and intimidating the perpetrators for hours.

Moral of the story: the humpback has your back. Every time.

Where witches are myths.

Meanwhile, on the island nation that is home to the diversely beautiful people of Papua New Guinea, orcas are the least of their concerns.

Theres something deeply disturbing about knife and burn wounds on a tiny childs body  a child who was cruelly tortured for supposedly conjuring up a bout of malaria.

If you dont know about the Sanguma Accusation Related Violence (SARV) that is sweeping PNG, then you need to educate yourself. I lived there for three years, and one cant be there without knowing. I also know that this childs horrific story was one of the lucky ones.

She survived.

The reports of SARV are increasingly tragic and terrifying, but whats worse is this chilling and common thread:

The victim is always an innocent suspect of sorcery.

Witches more real than whales?

Its important to note that the issue in PNG is not witchcraft, sorcery or any such thing at all.

There are no spells, wands, werewolves under the moon or whatever else youd like to imagine. Nor are these killings occurring because actual magic has been legitimately recorded. In fact, sorcery (or sanguma as it is known in PNG) is so much a non-issue in this saga that its almost laughable.

Almost.

The real issue is ignorance and fear. The real evil is hatred and greed.

Combined, they are a heady and destructive potion all on their own.

They cause the sufferer of measles to blame his neighbour for looking at him wrongly and making his illness materialize out of thin air. They cause a man whose son is in a coma, to blame his sister for eating the boys heart and thus removing the real life from his still-breathing body.

The alleged sanguma are tortured to death. The sick die anyway.

The nation is drowning.

The wave of myth and terror around supposed sanguma has grown rapidly, and suddenly the mutilations and killings are everywhere.

Yet even more concerning is the countrys response.

Social media praises the murderers for blotting out a plague. Churches shake holy fingers of condemnation at the victims for their hypothetical association with black magic.

And the innocents  the ones who glanced up at the wrong moment or happened to walk past the wrong house  are systematically and gruesomely tortured for supposed crimes so bizarre, that the pious can only sniff that sorcery is evil.

As if that was ever the problem in the first place.

But the worst part about PNGs endemic and senseless violence is this:

There are precious few humpbacks in these waters.

As I write this article from the safety of New Zealand, a post pops up on Facebook from one of my friends who lives and works in PNG: Tonight we hear the report that three young men are accused and being tortured for "magically killing" another boy who died of TB. The next report from this village may well be that the boys have been beheaded. Raise up champions, advocates, leaders who wield truth and wisdom. Bring down the lightning and rain, a flood of zeal that lasts a generation. (Anton Lutz)

He writes with the righteous anger of the humpback whale.

He also writes from a painfully small pod. Only a tiny handful of switched on human beings are standing against this ocean of mass hysteria and brainwashed brutality that is flooding PNG in waves.

Where are the whales for PNG?

Shame on the powerful who listen to the ringing cries of the hunters, yet see no reason to interfere in a playground of lies and murder.

Shame on the prestigious who hold means and money, yet stand by like a slippery octopus  multiple arms, yet never reaching out to help.

Its time to be humpback whale angry.

Its time for the powers-that-be to push back against the rumours and accusations; to halt the swelling of a frantic tide.

Its time for the hysteria to be slapped down; for the hunters to be stopped short on their misguided bloodlust.

Its time for the masses to protect not only their own, but to preserve the sacred breath of humanity itself.

Its time for the leaders to lead their own people.

Its time for the warriors to fight for every life.

Its time for the humpback whales to rise again.

Sorcery National Action Plan: http://www.stopsorceryviolence.org/the-sorcery-national-action-plan/

Full power of compassion article: https://www.hakaimagazine.com/features/power-compassion/

Further reading:

https://thediplomat.com/2018/01/why-is-papua-new-guinea-still-hunting-witches/

https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/papua-new-guinea-sorcery-killings_us_5a3a70a7e4b06d1621b0ebd0

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-29/png-upsurge-in-sorcery-related-violence/9095894

Emma is an Italian-South African with a New Zealand passport and an international heart. She spent years running a puppet ministry and directing student choirs, before going on to serve with Mission Aviation Fellowship in New Zealand (7 years) and Papua New Guinea (3 years). Currently a nomad living between various countries and towns, Emma's deep joy is in writing, music, hearing peoples stories and finding God in unexpected places.

Read Emma's creative expressions at http://www.girlkaleidoscope.wordpress.com or follow her PNG adventures at www.pngponderings.wordpress.com

Emmas previous articles may be viewed at www.pressserviceinternational.org/emma-mcgeorge.htmlFollowing the recent passing of Marvel Comics legend, Stan Lee, the world has honoured him with tributes, kind words and gratitude but most importantly sharing his life story and the many aspects that have almost been overlooked until recently. Lees characters undoubtedly inspired people with their very relevant and relatable lives, though many have noted Stan Lees greatest creation was himself.

I have to agree with this statement, (though Spiderman is pretty cool) but for a slightly different reason to what most people would expect. Yes, he was a great man for building the Marvel universe we all know and love, being the fun energetic face of the industry and for making his way into every good Marvel film to engage with his loving fans, but there is more to the man which should inspire us just as his creation has.

His origin story

Born on 28th December 1922 in Manhattan to Jack and Celia Lieber who were Jewish immigrants, his father Jack worked as a dress cutter when work was available. Lee, was encouraged by his parents to read, and pursue creativity, which at the time was different to other families whose children were encouraged to work to help support their families, especially during the great depression.

At age 17 Lee became an assistant at Timely Comics, running errands, cleaning, re-filling ink and other fun stuff. At the time, comic book writers weren't taken very seriously and when Lee was given his first shot at being published he decided to write under the name Stan Lee rather than his birth name, Stanley Lieber, to avoid being associated with comic books when he wrote the great American novel (his goal).

In 1942 at age 20, Lee enlisted in the United States Army Signal Corps Division, repairing communication equipment such as telegraph poles. This role led him to be transferred to the Training Film Division where his official classification was play-write, only nine men were given that title one of which was Dr Seuss. After the army, Lee continued working for Timely Comics which was now re-branded as Atlas Comics and began building a solid reputation as one of the creative drivers behind the business that would eventually become Marvel Comics.

His creation

As major competitor, DC Comics, gained traction after releasing the Justice League of America, Marvel Comics asked Lee to come up with a super hero team of his own. At this point in time he was considering a career change so, his wife encouraged him not to hold back and create whatever he wanted, as it wouldnt matter once he had left.

As a result of this freedom, Lee created characters with human flaws who were incredibly relatable and experienced nothing different to what a teenager would with the obvious exception of having super-natural abilities (The Fantastic Four).

These stories generated huge popularity and kept readers engaged through their teenage years and beyond. Most heroes before this were portrayed as perfect, flawless beings. Lee and Jack Kirby went on to make some of the most popular characters of all time including The Hulk, Iron-Man and Spiderman.

Stans hard work and creativity continues to impact the modern world, even though at age 20 he couldnt possibly have known that his time in the army would contribute to his career. Or that the small comic book company that he ran errands and swept floors for would end up honouring him as one of the sole contributors of their multi-million-dollar success. Theres something to be said about his perseverance.

His impact

Stan Lee inspired good values and integrity in the minds of children in a similar way that Jesus explained heavenly concepts using parables for human understanding. I couldnt tell you Stans religious views or relationship with God because I genuinely dont know but, although he might not have been a man of God, he was certainly Gods man.

As a kid, I remembered the quote with great power, comes great responsibility from the Spiderman movies and with the legacy that Lee left behind, it has become evident that this was just as much Stan Lees motto as it was Spidermans when it came to the weight of his influence.

Jesse Moore draws from the Bible and classical literature for insight into lifes tough questions. He is currently studying at university to become a film-maker.

Jesse Moores previous articles can be viewed at: https://www.pressserviceinternational.org/jesse-moore.htmlMONDAY, Dec. 3, 2018 (HealthDay News) -- More than one-quarter of people with diabetes have skimped on needed insulin because of the drug's soaring price tag, according to a new small study.

Surveying nearly 200 Americans with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, researchers found 26 percent had underused insulin because of cost.

But insulin isn't a drug you can safely ration, doctors warn.

"For people with type 1 diabetes, insulin is a lifesaving drug. Without it, people can die within days," said the study's lead author, Dr. Kasia Lipska, an assistant professor of medicine at the Yale School of Medicine.

"About 1 in 5 people with type 2 need insulin to prevent short-term and long-term complications, like blindness, kidney failure and dialysis and heart disease," Lipska explained.

Dr. LaShawn McIver is senior vice president of government affairs and advocacy for the American Diabetes Association (ADA).

"People are struggling to afford insulin, and it truly is a life-and-death situation," she said.

A recent survey by the diabetes association found a similar number of people -- 27 percent in their study -- said cost had affected their use or purchase of insulin. Many of them were regularly taking less than their doctor prescribed, were missing doses or switching to a different insulin.

Insulin costs have gone up dramatically, said Dr. Elisabeth Rosenthal, author of a journal editorial. Both the new study and editorial were published Dec. 3 in JAMA Internal Medicine.

"Between 2007 and 2017, the average wholesale price of four of the most popular insulins has more than tripled in price," wrote Rosenthal, editor-in-chief of Kaiser Health News.

"Between 2010 and 2015, the monthly wholesale price of Humulin, the most popular insulin, rose to nearly $1,100, up from $258 for the average patient," she added.

These skyrocketing prices put a considerable strain on people with type 1 diabetes, who are often young people just getting started in their lives, Rosenthal said.

Lipska said it's important to be able to quantify the extent of the problem, hence the study.

The researchers surveyed 199 people with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. All had been prescribed insulin in the past six months.

Because of cost, 32 percent of those between ages 18 and 44 reported underusing insulin, as did 24 percent of those 44 to 64 years old. Among those 64 and older, 21 percent had underused insulin due to cost.

Moreover, more than one-third of those who underused insulin never spoke to their physician about it.

Insulin underuse based on cost wasn't limited to low-wage earners. While nearly 20 percent of people making under $10,000 a year reported skimping on insulin due to cost, so did more than 38 percent of those making between $50,000 and $99,000 a year, the study reported.

"People are struggling to afford insulin across all incomes," McIver said.

"When an unexpected bill lands in your mailbox, it's a crisis, and we hear a lot about the $200,000 bills. But insulin and insulin pump costs, and blood sugar test strips, these costs are persistent, and they're for life," Rosenthal said. "Imagine if your rent suddenly went up $600 a month. It's really unfair to people who have type 1 diabetes."

The new study also found that more than half of people surveyed said they were also having trouble paying for diabetes devices, such as insulin pumps, blood sugar meters and continuous glucose monitors.

And those cost issues made a difference. People who reported cost-related insulin underuse had three times higher odds of having poor blood sugar control, the study found.

Lipska and her colleagues agreed said this problem is too big for patients to tackle on their own.

"Regulators and the medical community need to intervene to ensure that insulin is affordable to patients who need it," they wrote.

McIver said the ADA is pushing for more transparency across the supply chain to help figure out why costs have gotten so high. She encouraged patients to call their elected officials and share their stories and concerns.

Lipska said physicians need to be aware that pricing is an issue for their patients. "Doctors need to talk to their patients and ask them. Patients feel that this isn't a medical issue per se, and may not bring it up. But if you can't afford your medicine, that's part of your care."

More information

If you can't afford your insulin, the American Diabetes Association suggests possible resources.WATERTOWN, Mass. and GRONINGEN, The Netherlands, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- University Medical Centre Groningen has decided to standardize on the TAT-5000 thermometer of Exergen Medical. The well-known university hospital - based in Groningen, The Netherlands - will buy several hundreds of the temporal scanner from the Dutch distributor, Van Vliet Medical Products. UMC Groningen will transition from invasive to non-invasive temperature measurement.

Accurate and non-invasive

The TAT-5000 has many advantages over more traditional methods of determining a patients body temperature:

highly accurate temperature measurement

fast, safe and comfortable for the patient

quick and easy to use for both doctors and nurses

low costs, resulting in an average payback period of less than 1 year

the TAT-5000 is durable and can be used without throw-awayvsensor caps to avoid unnecessary waste and costs

due to its industrial design the TAT-5000 is covered by a Lifetime Guarantee

the housing of the thermometer is resistant to aggressive disinfectants

the TAT-5000 is supported by more than 70 peer-reviewed and published clinical studies



Research



Jan Bos, special consultant Medical Tooling at the University Medical Centre Groningen explains: Comparative scientific research shows that the Exergen TAT-5000 offers a very reliable and accurate method of measuring body temperature. Because the thermometer displays the core temperature and is very accurate due to a 2-point measurement, the thermometer shows a constant realistic temperature. A research project carried out on behalf of the UMCG by a student of the Human Technology study programme of Hanze University showed that the use of this thermometer by nurses in particular was very comfortable in using the new thermometer.



Both doctors and nurses find the TAT-5000 thermometer easy to use. They have confidence in this thermometer, adds Theo Huigen, director of Van Vliet Medical Products.



Durable



A non-invasive thermometer is ideal for patients, says Dr. Marybeth Pompei, Senior Vice President & Chief Clinical Scientist, Exergen Corporation. The TAT-5000 is comfortable and very accurate. In addition, the use of the TAT-5000 is in line with hospitals efforts to make them more sustainable. Since the TAT-5000 does not require the use of disposable caps to protect the measuring sensor no unnecessary waste is generated. This is a very important advantage for both the University Medical Centre Groningen and Exergen Medical.

About Exergen Corporation

Exergen Corporation, the leader in non-contact temperature measurement technologies for industrial and medical applications, delivers non-invasive temperature meters at lower costs, with higher accuracy, less process control and higher reliability than previously possible. With its award-winning arterial thermometer, Exergen is known in both the healthcare and consumer markets. The company was founded by Harvard researcher Dr. Francesco Pompei, who owns more than 70 patents. Exergen Corporation is headquartered in Watertown, Massachusetts, United States.

Media contact

Ellen Minkels

Director Global Business Development

Exergen Corporation

eminkels@exergen.com

+31653226285

www.exergen.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/39f2d8c8-d93b-434a-8788-e535a75c6ab8Union Government has constituted six-member committee to look at selling as many as 149 small and marginal oil and gas fields of state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) and Oil India Ltd (OIL) to private and foreign companies to boost domestic output.

The committee will be headed by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar and includes Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha, Oil Secretary M M Kutty, Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg, NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant and ONGC Chairman and Managing Director Shashi Shanker as members.

Background

Constitution of this committee is follow up of October 2018meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to review domestic production profile of oil and gas and the roadmap for cutting import dependence by 10% by 2022. In this meeting, Union Oil Ministry had made presentation showing that 149 smaller fields of ONGC, OIL and other explorers accounted for just 5% of domestic crude oil production. It was suggested at the meeting that these smaller fields could be given out to private and foreign firms, so that ONGC could concentrate on big ones where it could rope in technology partners through production enhancement contracts (PEC) or technical service arrangements. This was mainly large ONGC fields as contribute to 95% of its production and leave out the rest for private firms.According to index of eight core industries released by Ministry of Commerce and Industry, growth rate of eight infrastructure sectors slowed down to 4.8 per cent in October 2018. This was mainly due to contraction in production of crude oil, natural gas and fertilizer. It had recorded growth rate of 5% in October 2017. During April-October 2018-19, eight sectors recorded a growth rate of 5.4% against 3.5 per cent in the same period last year.

Key Facts

In October 2018, fertiliser production dropped sharply by 11.5%, crude oil by 5% and natural gas by 0.9% over the year-ago month. The production of coal, cement and electricity, on other hand, expanded in month under review. The growth rate of refinery products declined to 1.3% in October as against 7.5% in the same month last year. Similarly, steel sector growth too dipped to 2.2% against 8.6% in October 2017. The growth rate of eight core sectors, however, is more than 4.3 per cent expansion in September 2018.

Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI)

It is monthly production volume index considered as lead indicator of monthly industrial performance. It is calculated by using Laspeyres formula of weighted arithmetic mean of quantity relatives. It measures collective and individual performance of production in selected eight core industries viz. Natural Gas, Coal, Crude Oil, Fertilizers, Petroleum Refinery Products, Steel, Cement and Electricity.

It is compiled and released by Office of Economic Adviser (OEA), Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce & Industry. The eight infrastructure sectors, constitute 40.27% of total index of industrial production (IIP). These eight core industries have impact on general economic activities as well as industrial activities. (Base year for ICI is 2011-12).

Components and weightages covered in ICIThe first India-ASEAN InnoTech Summit was held in New Delhi. It was organized by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) in association with Department of Science & Technology (DST) and Ministry of External Affairs.

Objectives of this summit were

Explore avenues of cross country partnerships with Indian R&D-based enterprises.

Capture global trends in technology management and strategy

Advance progressive ideas for policy reforms and regulatory environment

Create avenues for industry-academia-government partnerships

Build capacities for market assessment and rapid commercialization of research

Promote best practices in financing, strategy, and leadership

Connect local and global research & development community for collaborative engagement

Highlights

Participating ASEAN member countries in this summit were Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam. On sidelines of this summit, an exhibition to showcase best Indian Innovative Technologies, with potential implementation in ASEAN region was also organized. Besides this summit also provided platform for B2G meetings i.e. one to one meeting with ASEAN delegation of ministers, advisors, and other dignitaries.

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

ASEAN is regional intergovernmental organisation comprising 10 Southeast Asian countries, which promotes intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic, political, security, military, educational, and sociocultural integration. 10-member ASEAN comprise of Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Brunei and Laos. India is a full dialogue partner of the ASEAN.South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be chief guest at Indias 70th Republic Day celebrations on 26 January 2019. Mr Ramaphosa was invited to be chief guest by Prime Minister Narendra Modi when two leaders met on sidelines of G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The announcement comes month after US President Donald Trump declined Indias invitation to be chief guest. The reason citied was scheduling constraints of President.

Significacne of Republic Day

It honours date on which Constitution of India came into effect on 26 January 1950 replacing Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of India. Constitution was adopted by Indian Constituent Assembly on 26 November 1949 and came into effect on 26 January 1950, completing the countrys transition towards becoming an independent republic. 26 January was chosen as Republic day because it was on this day in 1930 when Purna Swaraj (Declaration of Indian Independence) was proclaimed by Indian National Congress (INC) at Lahore session 1929 as opposed to Dominion status offered by British Regime.

Republic Day parade

On 26 January every year, Republic Day parade is held at Rajpath, New Delhi. It is largest and most important of the parades in India. The parade showcases Indias defence capability and its cultural and social heritage. It is conducted under control Union Defence Ministry

2018 Republic Day

For first time in history of Republic Day celebrations, 10 heads of state were chief guest at a time. They were from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a regional grouping of 10 Southeast Asian countries comprising of Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos and Brunei. The chief guest at Indias first Republic Day on January 26, 1950 was President of Indonesia and since then five other Southeast Asian leaders have chief guests at Republic Day parades.

Earlier Chief guests of Republic Day parades

2017- Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (Crown prince of Abu Dhabi), 2016- Francois Hollande (President of France), 2015-Barack Obama (US President), 2014- Shinzo Abe (Japanese Prime Minister), 2013-Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck (King of Bhutan), 2012-Yingluck Shinawatra (Then Prime Minister of Thailand), 2011- Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (Then President of Indonesia).About Documentation Centre

The Documentation Centre of ICSF was initiated in 1999, in Chennai, India. The main aims behind the setting up of the Centre were to disseminate relevant information pertinent to small-scale fisheries and fishworkers in a format that would be easily available. The focus areas of information collection of the DC has been: artisanal fisheries, working conditions of fishworkers, fishworkers unions, fishworker movements, social security, women in fisheries, fisheries statistics, fishing technology, fishing communities, aquaculture, fisheries trade, fisheries management, coastal ecosystems and legal instruments, from different parts of the world.A model weeped in court after being charged with trying to smuggle 1.1million ( 1.2M; US$ 1.4 M) worth of heroin on a flight to Ireland in a suitcase.





Tereza Hluskova, 22, from the Czech Republic, was stopped at Lahore airport in Pakistan as she attempted to board a flight to Dublin via Abu Dhabi.





Almost nine kilograms of the Class A drug were found stashed in statues in the model's luggage in January.





Miss Hluskova broke down in tears at a hearing after she was told her trial would be postponed yet again.





The model says she was in Pakistan for a modelling contract and told authorities she did not know how the heroin ended up in her suitcase.





Two other men were also arrested and are facing drug trafficking charges after police went through the model's phone.





Miss Hluskova could face up to ten years in prison if she is convicted. The death penalty in Pakistan applies to those caught with over 10 kilograms of drugs.





Authorities allege that Miss Kluskova had met a man in Manchester who had set up a 'fake' photography studio.





A customs spokesman told local media that the man asked Miss Hukslova to visit Pakistan to promote a leading fashion brand in return for a big payout, according to The Sun.





A customs spokesman said: 'She came to Pakistan and resided in Gujranwala for a few days before coming to Lahore airport to fly for Abu Dhabi with the heroin bag given to her.'





The story gained attention when Miss Hluskova was captured smiling and posing for photos with Pakistani investigators after she was arrested at the airport.





In a video, released online, a Pakistani customs official is shown 'discovering' the drugs hidden in the suitcase while Miss Hluskova looks on. She then puts her head in her hands.





She says in the video: 'They gave me something for luggage, three statues or something. They said it was gifts. I didn't know there was something inside'.





Miss Kluskova's trial has repeatedly been delayed and she has been on bail in Pakistan.





Last month, a man was jailed for three years after he threatened to terrorist attacks on Pakistan if Miss Kluskova was not released.





Nikolai Simeonov Ivanov, 21, from Bulgaria, sent threatening emails and text messages to a news website in Pakistan.





Ivanov admitted that he did not realise the consequences of sending the threats, a court heard.

 | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com



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"One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed,

but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar WildeA majority of legislators asked the court last week to intervene, saying Rajapakse remained in office despite parliament passing motions against him. (Photo: File)

Colombo: A Sri Lanka court on Monday suspended Mahinda Rajapakse's powers as prime minister and ruled that his cabinet could not function until its legitimacy was established.

The court of appeal said "irreparable damage" could be done to Sri Lanka if Rajapakse, whose controversial appointment as prime minister a month ago sparked a political crisis, was allowed to remain as head of government.

Sri Lanka has been in crisis since October 26 when the president sacked Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister and appointed Rajapakse -- who was voted out twice by parliament last month but refuses to step down.

A majority of legislators asked the court last week to intervene, saying Rajapakse remained in office despite parliament passing motions against him.

"The position of the 122 MPs who filed the case was that Rajapakse had no legitimacy after losing two no-confidence motions," lawyer and legislator MA Sumanthiran told reporters.

It further undermines Rajapakse's ability to govern after parliament cut off his ability to spend any state finances.

President Maithripala Sirisena, who appointed Rajapakse, dismissed parliament last month but the Supreme Court intervened to restore it.

The decision by the Court of Appeal on Monday is the latest setback to Sirisena and Rajapakse, whose attempt to take power nearly two years ahead of the next elections plunged Sri Lanka into crisis.But I dont want to go among mad people," Alice remarked.

"Oh, you cant help that," said the Cat: "were all mad here. Im mad. Youre mad."

"How do you know Im mad?" said Alice.

"You must be," said the Cat, "or you wouldnt have come here.

 Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland





With freedom comes responsibility.

 Eleanor Roosevelt



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Le Hoang Diep Thao said that Trung Nguyen Group has forged signatures to remove her from the company. Photo from Thaos Facebook page

The estranged wife of Vietnams Coffee King has accused her husbands company of forging signatures to remove her.

Le Hoang Diep Thao, wife of Trung Nguyen founder Dang Le Nguyen Vu, has claimed in court that the coffee company has faked two documents.

Her accusation prompted a court in the southern province of Binh Duong to postpone its verdict in a case until the said documents are verified.

The documents in question are meeting minutes and a decision taken at a general meeting of shareholders in December 2011, authorizing Vu as a legal representative of Trung Nguyen Instant Coffee Corporation (Trung Nguyen IC) and the manager of the Trung Nguyen IC plant in Binh Duong.

Until then, Thao was the legal representative of Trung Nguyen IC, known for its G7 packaged coffee.

She said that the documents, which Trung Nguyen submitted to the Binh Duong court as requested, were only photocopies and did not have a specific date.

The content of the documents contradict each other and there are signs that signatures have been forged, Thao said. She has asked for these documents to be verified three times.

In May 2006, Thao was appointed Trung Nguyen's deputy general director, allowing her to manage the company under Vu's authorization.

She claims that under her management, Trung Nguyen's charter capital increased from VND150 billion ($6.5 million) to VND2.5 trillion ($108.7 million) and both the company's annual revenue and profit grew significantly.

However, in July 2014, Vu signed a decision to dismiss Thao as deputy general director without the board of directors' approval. He also instructed his employees to demolish her office and block her from entering the company's headquarters, Thao alleged.

Furthermore, he prevented Thao from performing her rights and responsibilities as Trung Nguyen's shareholder and a board member, prompting her to file the lawsuit.

The court of Ho Chi Minh City on September 20 reinstated Thao as the deputy general director, co-owner and co-founder of Trung Nguyen Group, but on the very next day Vu dismissed her for the second time, accusing Thao of threatening Vu's partners during the couple's struggles over property and rights to manage and run the company.

In addition to the lawsuit on deputy general directorship, Thao and Vu are also involved in several other legal disputes including their divorce, management rights over Trung Nguyen Instant Coffee Company and a case filed against the head of the Business Registration Office under Binh Duong Province's Department of Planning and Investment.Hotel is a particularly dynamic sector in Vietnam's major cities, driven by flourishing tourism. Photo by Shutterstock/Saigoneer

The golden age of tourism in Vietnam presents robust hotel development opportunities in Vietnams biggest cities.

Troy Griffiths, deputy managing director of real estate consultant Savills, said Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi are "under-hoteled per population, per travel and per airlift capacity".

"Hotel is a particularly dynamic sector at the moment as Vietnam is experiencing a golden age of tourism, with international tourism rising 20-30 percent year-on-year and more Vietnamese travelling than any time before," Griffiths told VnExpress International.

"Theres a demand for five-star hotels which will be really a strong asset class for the future," he added.

As of November, 14.12 million foreigners visited the country, up 21.3 per cent year-on-year and exceeding last years 12.9 million, according to the General Statistics Office.

South Koreans dominated the surge at 46.5 percent, followed by Hong Kong (32.8 percent), Finland (29.6 percent), mainland China (26.9 percent), Taiwan (15.6 percent), and Denmark (15.4 percent).

In the same period, domestic travelers rose 20.91 percent.

"Hanoi and HCMC had been pretty quiet in the past as they went through a bit of a bad phase, when international visitors would pass and go straight to Da Nang, Phu Quoc and Nha Trang.

"Now we see they are actually coming to Hanoi and HCMC because they are both very charming cities for international tourists," Griffiths said.

"And their stay is lengthening. That means more five-star demand."

Vo Quoc Phuong Trang, head of hotel investment consultancy at real estate service firm Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), also told VnExpress in a recent interview that Hanoi and HCMC, with their steady economic and tourism growth, would continue to draw foreign investors in the high-end hotel segment, which Trang said has low risk but offers steady revenue.

A report released in July this year by global consulting firm Grant Thornton stated that increasing numbers of well-to-do Vietnamese citizens are choosing to stay in five-star hotels and spend lavishly when they travel within the country.

Vietnamese citizens accounted for 19.2 percent of 4-star and 5-star hotels guests in 2017, according to the report. Although this is a slight decrease from last years figure of 20.8 percent, the number of domestic guests staying at upscale hotels had increased for three consecutive years from 2014 to 2016.

The country has seen a strong influx of international hotel brands and hotel management companies in the last few years. From 30 hotels with international brand names in 2010, the number had increased to 79 at the end of last year, according to Savills.

There has been a particularly big jump this year with recent announcements by Mandarin Oriental and Movenpick in HCMC and Best Western Premier in the central province of Quang Binh, it said.

The emergence of Vietnamese hotel operators is also a highlight in the local hospitality landscape.

"Vietnamese hotel developers are also getting mature. They are acquiring international knowledge and becoming a really strong force in their own right as we have already seen across the resort cities with Vingroup, FLC, BIM and Sun Group," Griffiths noted.

Savills' third-quarter report shows that the 5-star segment in Hanoi continued its strong performance in Q3 though the high travel season for foreign tourists lasts from the beginning of Q4 to April.

Occupancy rate of five-star hotels in the capital city was highest, at about 80 percent, followed by four-star hotels (65 percent) and three-star hotels (59 percent).

Average revenue of five-star hotels was $100/room/night, double that of four-star and three times that of three-star properties, the report said.

According to VnExpress data, ten out of 19 high-end hotels in the best locations in HCMC have foreign owners. These include Sheraton, Caravelle, InterContinental, Asiana Saigon, and Sofitel.

In Hanoi, nine of 16 high-end hotels have foreign firms as major owners such as Melia, Sheraton, Sofitel Metropole, Nikko, and Pan Pacific being the major names.Vietnams new feed-in tariffs are attracting great interest in wind power, but investors are concerned about grid connection and purchase agreements.

The new feed-in tariffs (FIT) are expected to be attractive to domestic and foreign investors, Tommaso Rovatti Studihard, South East Asia sales director for wind power developer Vestas Asia Pacific, told VnExpress International.

The government recently approved tariff revisions under Decision 39 on support mechanisms for the development of wind power.

The decision, effective from November 1 this year, raises the tariffs from 7.8 US cents per kWh to 8.5 US cents for onshore and 9.8 US cents for offshore generation respectively.

"Electricity demand will grow at an estimated 8 - 10 percent a year from now to 2030. This represents realistic opportunities for investors," Studihard said.

Conjecturing that the national plan envisages adding 1,000 MW of wind power by 2020 and 6,000 MW by 2030, he said the targets are achievable.

"Vestas is excited about the Vietnamese market, probably this is the most promising market in the Asian region with very good wind resources," he said.

Vestas has so far put three wind power projects into operation in Vietnam and plans to have another project come online by 2019 and "do a lot more in the future."

Studihard noted that over the next three to five years there are huge opportunities in Vietnam to have some gigawatts of wind power, but the bankability of the power purchase agreement (PPA) remains an issue with many investors, especially international investors, and banks finding it a little difficult to be comfortable with.

There are no clear termination and force majeure clauses in the PPA, which hinders the attraction of foreign investment, especially from banks and credit institutions, he explained.

"One more problem is Vietnams weak grid capacity, which would become a bottleneck for developing wind and other renewables. The grid needs to be upgraded to tap the great potential Vietnam has for offerable, sustainable and reliable wind power."

Bui Van Thinh, CEO of the Thuan Binh Wind Power JSC (TBW), said having gained success in developing the 24MW Phu Lac wind power project in the central province of Binh Thuan, TBW is completing procedures to start construction of a 30MW wind power project in neighboring Ninh Thuan Province.

But the weak grid capacity is the biggest challenge to expanding renewables like wind and solar power, he said.

The transmission line near Phu Lac site could handle 100MW, compatible with two 50MW wind power projects.

Overload capacity is imminent once a solar power project connects with the transmission line, Thinh noted, citing the concerning fact that there are eight solar power projects in the locality approved to connect with the grid.

"The government should instruct the state-run Electricity of Vietnam (EVN) to install transmission lines to cope with the renewable power projects across the country, especially those in Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan."

Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan are central provinces that have the greatest potential for renewable energy in the country.

While 2,000 MW of solar power are proposed to be generated in Ninh Thuan, the local transmission line can only handle a few hundred megawatts. Thus, 110 kV or 220 kV transmission lines need to be installed before pushing the power to the 500kV transmission line and sending it to Ho Chi Minh City or Danang City, Thinh added.

Nguyen Van Thanh, deputy head of the Ministry of Industry and Trades Electricity and Renewable Energy Authority, said demand for energy, wind power in particular, has been growing rapidly.

The need for ensuring energy security but also sustainable development has changed Vietnam from an energy seller to buyer, with the countrys dependence on imported energy sources also rising, he said.

Vietnam also faces a shortage of primary energy, with coal imports posing many risks related to supply, price and transportation, he noted.

"Given that, efficient exploitation of new and renewable sources would play a key role in the countrys socio-economic development, energy security and sustainable development.

"The country is working diligently to draft policies for the efficient and economical use of energy, diversification of energy sources and increasing application of new and eco-friendly technologies," Thanh added.

Under the revised Power Development Plan VII, power stations in the country are expected to generate a total of 60,000 MW by 2020. Of these, coal-fired stations would make the largest proportion of 42.7 percent, followed by hydropower (30.1 percent), gas-fired plants (14.9 percent) and renewable energy sources (9.9 percent).

By 2030, the total capacity would soar to 129,500 MW, with coal and gas-fired plants accounting for 42.6 percent and 14.7 percent respectively, similar to the figures set for 2020. But the ratio of renewable energy sources is set to double to 21 percent by then.Closeup of a young man with a simulated PrEP pill in his hand. Photo by Shutterstock/nito

Vietnam has launched national program for providing HIV prevention pills to high-risk groups to mark World AIDS Day, December 1.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (or PrEP) can stop HIV from taking hold and spreading throughout one's body and is highly effective for preventing HIV if used as prescribed, said the U.S. governments Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The program in Vietnam has been launched by the Ministry of Health, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and global health non-profit PATH.

PrEP services would be provided in 11 provinces by 2020 and aim to get 7,300 registrants.

In Hanoi, the Institute for Development and Community Health, Light, has launched PrEP at the cost of VND550,000 ($21.35) for an individual per month.

In the U.S., an HIV-prevention drug called Truvada costs close to $2,000 for a months supply.

PrEP was trialled in Vietnam from June last year through the USAID Market Growth Facility project carried out by PATH.

The project worked with high-risk groups, the private sector and public and private outpatient clinics to assist 1,895 people in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

The high-risk groups included MSM (men who have sex with men) and transgender people and HIV-negative partners of infected people who are not viral load suppressed.

Vietnam is the second country in Asia after Thailand to deploy PrEP nationwide.

Mary Tarnowka, the U.S. consul general in HCMC, said the program will bring Vietnam one step closer to its goal of eliminating HIV by 2030.

There are 209,000 HIV patients in Vietnam. The government has only managed to keep track of 175,000 people and provided antiretroviral (ARV) drugs to 130,000 of these.Vietnam to open first direct flights to Israel

Vietnam could have its first direct flights to Israel starting next September, Walla reported Thursday.

National carrier Vietnam Airlines plans to launch two flights weekly between Hanoi and Israels coastal Tel Aviv City and test its economical viability.

Vietnam Airlines CEO Thanh Tri Duong had visited Israel in early November to discuss the flights inauguration and sign a code-sharing agreement with Israels flag carrier El Al Israel Airlines Ltd, said Walla, a Tel Aviv-based web portal.

Nadav Eshcar, Israels ambassador to Vietnam, was cited as saying that his embassy had been contacted by Vietnam Airlines representatives regarding takeoff and landing time slots allowed by Israels Civil Aviation Authority.

Founded in 1956, Vietnam Airlines operates 93 planes, including the new top-end Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and the long-haul Airbus 350-900.

Vietnam's aviation industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years. The country served more than 53 million air passengers in the first half of this year, up 14 percent from a year ago.Curious people watch as police block roads outside a ward office in Gia Lai Province after a deadly shooting Monday. Photo by VnExpress/Nhat Ha

A Central Highlands military official shot and killed a ward chairwoman Monday morning for reasons yet to be ascertained.

Bui Hieu, deputy military commander of Doan Ket Ward in Ayun Pa Town in Gia Lai, showed up at the flag salutation ceremony held at government offices every Monday, ordered people to freeze and fired several shots.

Many people fled, but Hieu managed to catch Kpa H'Ven, 31, vice chairwoman of the ward.

Informed police rushed to the ward office and tried to save the woman but Hieu shot her dead.

He then shot himself with the gun and was rushed to hospital in critical condition.

Two military guns were seized at the scene. Investigation shows that six bullets had been fired.

Hieu, 32, who is married and has two daughters, had just returned from a military training course. His family said they were not aware that he had any conflict with anyone at work.

Police are investigating the case further.HCMC luxury bus to run from airport to resort city

A new luxury bus service will connect HCMCs Tan Son Nhat airport with Vung Tau City, facilitating holiday travel.

The HCMC People's Committee has asked the municipal transport department to introduce a new bus service from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to the southern resort city. Vung Tau is about 110 km east of HCMC.

The bus will start operating this month, from 12 a.m. to 11 p.m., making it match flight schedules, and provide a timely service for the upcoming New Year holiday.

The wi-fi equipped air-conditioned bus can be booked by both domestic and foreign tourists. Airport services will support passengers in booking and depositing luggage.

The ticket price, including insurance, is expected to be VND180,000 ($7.72) per person.

Ho Chi Minh City has five bus routes to different places within and outside the city from the Tan Son Nhat Airport. Photo by VnExpress/Huu Nguyen.

With the new bus service, Ho Chi Minh City authorities aim to redress the chaotic scenes that happen as transport businesses pick up passengers at the airport.

After the piloting period, the Transport Department will consider a proposal to add more bus routes from the airport to other provinces and vice versa.

Ho Chi Minh City currently has five bus routes operating from Tan Son Nhat airport.

Vung Tau in Ba Ria  Vung Tau Province is considered one of the most beautiful resort cities in southern Vietnam. The city is a notable tourist attraction with famous beaches and delicious cuisine.

In the first nine months of 2018, Ba Ria- Vung Tau welcomed 10.3 million visitors, according to the province's official data.A yellow vest hangs inside a vandalized store front the morning after clashes with protesters wearing yellow vests, a symbol of a French drivers' protest against higher diesel fuel taxes, in Paris, France, December 2, 2018.

Workmen cleared away burned hulks of cars in Paris on Sunday after the worst riots in the capital in half a century.

Several thousand riot police were overwhelmed on Saturday as they fought running battles with protesters in the shadows of some of Paris fabled landmarks and through its fanciest shopping districts. More than 400 people were arrested and more than 100 injured, shocking Parisians and tourists alike.

At the base of the 19th-century Arc de Triomphe, police kept the public back as cleanup crews set about erasing graffiti, much of it targeting President Emmanuel Macron and some exuding anarchist sentiment such as, "Overthrow the bourgeoisie!"

"Ive worked on monuments around Paris for 20 years and Ive never seen anything like this at the Arc de Triomphe. It was carnage," a Paris City Hall official overseeing the cleanup said as his team worked on a graffito reading "Macron resign".

Lasting damage might be caused if crews are forced to erode the archs stonework to render it clean, he said.

Authorities were caught off-guard by the escalation in violence after two weeks of nationwide unrest against fuel taxes and high living costs, known as the "yellow vest" movement after the fluorescent jackets worn by the protesters.

On the Rue Royale in the heart of Paris, half a dozen laborers gingerly replaced glass panes on the front of a Dior store. Next door, a Chanel employee vacuumed shards of glass from the floor, while carpenters removed the plywood panels that had been protecting a Gucci shop.

The government said it would consider a state of emergency in the face of unrest across the country.

The violence in Paris was the worst in the elegant center of the capital since the May 1968 student uprising that brought France to its knees.

Cleanup operations continue under the message, "The Yellow Vests will Triumph" written on the Arc de Triomphe, the morning after clashes with protesters wearing yellow vests, a symbol of a French drivers' protest against higher diesel taxes, in Paris, France, December 2, 2018. Photo by Reuters

"Maybe the army should intervene"

"Were already afraid of whats going to happen next week. The violence is escalating at an exponential rate," said Claude, a well-heeled woman who lives next to the Belle Armee brasserie that was set ablaze. "The state is losing control. They cannot let this happen. Maybe the army should intervene."

Parisians and tourists surveyed the aftermath, capturing the moment on smartphones as the capital digested the chaos that now poses a serious challenge to Macrons presidency.

"Macron has a problem on his hands. Everyones fed up. Hes got to listen more," said Amaya Fuster, eyeing graffiti daubed on a Printemps department store window that read: "Theres enough money in the coffers of businessmen. Share the riches!"

Authorities said violent groups from the far right and far left as well as "thugs" from the suburbs had infiltrated the yellow vests movement in Paris on Saturday.

There were signs that some of the hardcore troublemakers were part of the anarchist and anti-capitalist movement: banks, insurance companies, upmarket private homes and cafes and glitzy boutiques were among the properties smashed up and looted.

The protests are taking a toll on the economy. On Saturday, boulevards that should have been packed with tourists and Christmas shoppers resembled battle zones, as smoke and tear gas hung in the air and debris littered the ground. Hotels and department stores in the capital stand to lose millions.

"We thought, Oh, thats our holiday over," said Yao Lei, a Chinese tourist from Shanghai who arrived in Paris at dawn and had received video images of the chaos on his flight.

"Were here to shop but we wondered if wed have to go straight to Milan instead."PM Groysman sees Nord Stream 2 as Russia's covert war against Europe

Ukraine offered its Western partners to jointly manage the Ukrainian gas transmission system.

If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+EnterKyiv-Boryspil Express breakdown: Passenger gets compensation for missed flight

The man missed one working day as a result of the incident.

If you see a spelling error on our site, select it and press Ctrl+EnterWhat do you think about our new website?

Share your opinionThere is no information so far as to where the armored boats are being transferred.

Two small-sized armored artillery boats of the Ukrainian Navy, 'Berdiansk' and 'Nikopol', that were seized by the Russian FSB's coast guards on Nov 25, are being moved from the Kerch sea port where they had been taken following their capture.

"Two Ukrainian small artillery boats previously detained by FSB are reported to be redeployed to unknown location," the Ukrainian Military Portal tweeted on Monday, Dec 3.

#_



Two Ukrainian small artillery boats previously detained by FSB are reported to be redeployed to unknown location. pic.twitter.com/b3h46COqQc  Ukrainian Military Portal (@mil_in_ua_en) December 3, 2018

As UNIAN reported earlier, Ukrainian Navy vessels  two small-sized 'Berdiansk' and 'Nikopol' armored artillery boats and the 'Yany Kapu' tugboat  that had been captured by Russia's coast guards in the Sea of Azov were tugged to the port of Kerch in the occupied Crimea after they were attacked, rammed and fired upon and seized by Russia's coast guards with aviation and spec-ops support near the Kerch Strait November 25.

All 24 sailors of the said three vessels have been captured. The Russian-controlled "court" in the occupied Crimea ruled to remand the men in custody. They are charged with "illegal border crossing." All crew were later transferred to Moscow-based pre-trial detention centers.

Ukrainian chief prosecutor for the Autonomous Republic of Crimea Gunduz Mamedov states that the captives must be treated as prisoners of war.

Ukraine's delegation expressed its strong protest to Russian at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in connection with the Nov 25 armed attack on the Ukrainian Navy vessels near the Kerch Strait.In the largest union town in America, the arrival of a virulently anti-union company has riled up plenty of progressives. There have been rallies and protests over Amazons decision to plop a new campus, with as much as $3 billion worth of city and state subsidies, in Queens, and leading the way has been the influential Retail, Wholesale and Department Store union [RWDSU] and their voluble president, Stuart Appelbaum.

Amazon has a record of routinely mistreating and exploiting its workers at all levels, Appelbaum said at a Wednesday press conference near City Hall, held to promote a new report summarizing Amazons labor abuses. Amazons disturbing record as an anti-worker, union-busting company should be scrutinized more closely by our city and state leaders.

At first glance, the coalition mobilizing against Amazon looks similar to the one that coalesced in the last decade around stopping Walmart from bringing a superstore to New York City. Labor unions, including RWDSU, were strongly opposed, and Democratic politicians took turns bashing the Arkansas retail giant as a job-killer.

But Amazon wont be landing in New York without labor help. One of the states most prominent unions, 32BJ SEIU, is in support of the deal, as is the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, a close ally of Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Other leading unions not impacted by the deal, like the United Federation of Teachers and 1199 SEIU, the states largest union, have been silent. As in past labor battles, the unions affected most are left to fend for themselves while others watch on the sidelinesor pursue a course that puts them in direct conflict with their allies in the labor world.

Solidarity among unions remains, at best, a theoretical premise.

Its a divide and conquer strategy, said Jonathan Westin, the director of New York Communities for Change, a left-leaning community organization opposing the Amazon deal.

Unlike Walmart, which had merely a large store of underpaid workers to offer the five boroughs, Amazon is promising much more: up to 25,000 jobs, many of them white collar, and potentially eight million square feet of office space. While Amazon has aggressively fought any efforts to organize among its lower-paid warehouse workers, there will be union construction jobs, according to Mayor Bill de Blasio, who hashed out the agreement in secret with Cuomo. The public does not precisely know how many union construction jobs were promised.

But the Building Trades union has never billed itself as particularly leftistby nature of the people it represents, it is always pro-development, partnering often with a real estate lobby that, in other contexts, works to block pro-tenant bills in Albany that likely benefit the rank-and-file union members who struggle, like everyone else, to find an affordable apartment in New York City.

Gary LaBarbera, the president of Building Trades, declined to be interviewed for this story. In a statement sent through a spokesman, he said Amazon will be a historic boom for our economy and will result in thousands of middle-class construction jobs with benefits for residents of all five boroughs.



An Amazon fulfillment center. (Terry Harris/Shutterstock)

32BJ, the union representing building and service workers like doormen and janitors, has taken on a much larger role in the progressive movement. With its large, Spanish-speaking constituency, the union has long denounced President Donald Trumps anti-immigrant rhetoric and helped organize against the White Houses attempts to deport the undocumented.

And unlike other unions in Albany that tolerated or enabled the Independent Democratic Conference, a breakaway group of Democrats who for years formed a power-sharing alliance with State Senate Republicans, 32BJ heavily backed Alessandra Biaggi, the insurgent Democrat who defeated Jeff Klein, the IDCs ringleader.

Yet 32BJ went all-in for Amazon because the trillion dollar tech and retail behemoth worked out a deal for union labor to provide security and maintenance at the headquarters. The union could see as many as 3,000 jobs.

Hector Figueroa, the president of 32BJ SEIU, also told Gothamist he sees Amazons arrival as an opportunity to show a notoriously anti-union company that an organized workforce could be beneficialand he hopes that within a decade, all of Amazons employees will be unionized.

Amazon is already here in New York City. I see packages going everywhere in our neighborhood. Amazon exists in New York City. They employ 4,000 people here, he said, referring to existing warehouses in the five boroughs. This is an expansion of Amazons presence in New York. This an opportunity for us to change this company and organize it.

Much of the opposition to the Amazon deal has revolved around the use of subsidies to lure a supremely wealthy company to a city it might have been attracted to anyway. Politicians who signed a letter in 2017 urging Amazon to come to New York now oppose the Queens campus on these grounds.

Figueroa said he was sympathetic to those concerns.

The real way we end the race to the bottom, which city and states have engaged in for decades, is to really act at the federal level, he said, citing laws in the Europe Union that heavily regulate public subsidies to corporations.

In a sense, the cleaving of organized labor is nothing new to New York. In his first term as governor, when he had won office campaigning as a centrist new Democrat, Cuomo warred with public sector unions while forming close alliances with certain private sector unions, including the building and construction trades.

This very same dynamic32BJ and Building Trades opposing the RWDSUplayed out a decade ago. When the long-defunct Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx was targeted for development that included a shopping mall, RWDSU and local elected officials helped kill the deal over a failure to mandate higher retail wages at the city-subsidized project.

Campaigning in favor of the project was LaBarbera. 32BJ abandoned a coalition opposing the shopping mall to side with the building trades union, which viewed the project as a jobs-creator.

There is a history of this kind of disagreement and a kind of lack of solidarity, if you want to call it that, said Joshua Freeman, a labor historian at CUNY. The building trades in part, have a different situation. Most of their members work on jobs with a limited time span. These unions have an acute sensitivity for the need for the next job without paying a whole lot of attention to what the broader social impact would be.

In an interview with Gothamist, Appelbaum said he had not asked allies in the labor movement to build a broader coalition to combat Amazon. He called 32BJ SEIU good friends but charged they were defending Amazon out of their own self-interest and not for the greater good of working people and the labor movement in New York.

I think there are people who have made the argument that by osmosis, somehow, Amazon is going to come here and see the light of operating in New York City, a union town, and change its ways, he said. Its nonsense.Andalusian PM Susana Diaz on Sunday. Alejandro Ruesga

The ballot boxes in Andalusia have yielded an outcome that makes governing the region an extraordinarily complicated affair. It also turns the political system on its head: the rise of a fifth party, the far-right group Vox, not only means an even greater fragmentation of the right, but also transforms the balance of political power across Spain, where there is now a five-party scenario in place.

Simple math makes it impossible for Susana Diaz to seek the same support that has allowed her to lead the region until now; and if we view the Andalusian results from a national perspective, it is very hard to imagine Ciudadanos and Adelante Andalucia  the regional branch of Podemos  joining forces to let Diaz get reinstated into power.

The worst thing that could happen is for Voxs success to make others think that they should follow down the same road

After 36 years of uninterrupted Socialist Party (PSOE) rule in Andalusia, a long era has come to an end in Spains most-populous region (8.4 million), which had also been a prime constituency for the PSOE. Even though the PSOE has won the election again, the overall result represents a debacle that cannot be concealed: Susana Diazs party has tumbled from 47 seats to just 33. Considering the fact that the PSOE had been heading the regional government since Spains transition to democracy, the party itself is to be held accountable for these results, as Andalusians have turned their backs on they way their region is being run.

Additionally, the turnout rate was the second lowest ever seen in an Andalusian election, indicating voter apathy in the political left and a rise in right-wing voters. If this election showcases anything, it is the very significant rise of the conservative vote, a fact that will have an impact across the Spanish territory. Andalusia, and by extension all of Spain, is no longer different from its main neighboring countries: a far-right party has entered the democratic institutions with no fewer than 12 seats and nearly 11% of the vote.

Voxs performance will influence the upcoming local, regional, European and possibly even national elections in Spain next year

While its profile is still a little hazy, Vox can be linked to radical Spanish nationalism and also to the European rise of eccentric groups such as Marine Le Pens National Front  its leader has rushed to congratulate Vox  or Matteo Salvini in Italy and Alternative for Germany. Vox is not an Andalusian party: its ambitions are national, and its performance on Sunday will influence the upcoming local, regional, European and possibly even national elections in Spain next year. The question remains whether Voxs support comes exclusively from the most extreme nationalists who have been moved to action by the Catalan crisis, or whether the party has also made inroads in other constituencies who are sensitive to the challenges posed by the Catalan separatist drive. If so, it would be the most radical symptom of the effects of the Catalan crisis on Spains party system.

The Popular Party (PP) has managed to hold on to second position and keep Ciudadanos in check, but this latter party is now breathing down the PPs neck: the conservatives have lost a large amount of votes, while Albert Riveras party has taken third spot after increasing its seats from nine to 21. There is still room for strategic moves within the political right.

The Popular Party (PP) has managed to hold on to second position and keep Ciudadanos in check

Adelante Andalucia has met with disappointing results compared with its leaders ambitions and with the expectations that had built up around the regional branch of Podemos. Based on Sundays outcome, it can no longer hope to play the role of kingmaker in the regional assembly.

The outcome also complicates any nationwide calculations for Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, himself of the PSOE, who comes out weaker from the Andalusia vote. Voters have shown a clear tendency to lean towards the right, and in some cases toward the far right. Conservative parties are facing increasingly fragmented constituencies, yet they should not treat Vox like one more party within the system, but as a group that defends an ideology that shows disdain for democratic institutions.

The worst thing that could happen is for Voxs success to make others think that they should follow down the same road. That would represent the greatest debacle of all following the electoral earthquake in Andalusia.

English version by Susana Urra.Vox supporters celebrate the election results. Juan Carlos Toro

The election of far-right party Vox to the Andalusian regional government on Sunday has shown that the extreme right is no longer a political phantom. Since Blas Pinar, a far-right politician linked to former dictator Francisco Franco, lost his seat in Congress in 1982, no political party with this ideology has set foot in any of the countrys parliaments.

But this 36-year-long tradition came to an end on December 2 at the regional elections in Andalusia. With 98.9% of ballots counted, Vox received more than 391,000 votes (10.9%) which gives the far-right party 12 deputies  a result that far exceeded expectations.

This is a historic day, not only for Andalusia but for all of Spain

Vox leader Santiago Abascal

Long live the resistance! they shouted from the hotel where the party was following the results. Journalists from Spanish online daily Contexto and the television station La Sexta were not allowed to access the function.

Vox built its campaign along clear lines: Spanish nationalism, the fight against the independence movement in Catalonia, messages against immigration, the Historical Memory Law (which formally condemns the Franco regime and is being used to legally exhume the body of the dictator from the Valley of the Fallen monument), the Law against Sexist Violence, as well as constant praise for Spains security forces and the army.

French far-right leader Marine Le Pen, the head of the National Rally (formerly named National Front), congratulated Vox on Sundays results, writing on Twitter: My warmest congratulations to our friends at Vox, who tonight won a very significant result for a young and dynamic movement.

Spain's far-right VOX party leader Santiago Abascal and regional candidate Francisco Serrano. MARCELO DEL POZO (REUTERS)

More information Electoral earthquake in Andalusia

Vox gained seats in every province but its best result was in Almeria, where it emerged as the third-strongest political force. With two deputies in the province, it received more than 40,000 votes (16.8%). Whats more, in the town of El Ejido, where the far-right group focused its efforts, it was the top political force, winning 8,000 votes (29.5%). Vox also picked up two deputies in Cadiz (55,000 votes, 11.2%), Malaga (70,000, 11%) and Seville (92,000, 10%), and one in Cordoba (34,000, 9%), Granada (45,000, 11%), Huelva (17,000, 8%) and Jaen (27,000, 8%).

We have the key to throw out the corrupt Socialists, yelled Vox leader Santiago Abascal to a crowded hall in the hotel, after the election results were announced. The Socialist Party (PSOE), which has been in power in Andalusia for the past 36 years, has been accused of using public funds for personal gain.

Vox has spoken of putting up an impassable wall in Melilla and Ceuta to keep out migrants

At the hotel, Abascal also attacked the conservative Popular Party (PP) as being useless and said the group had done nothing in the years the PSOE was in government.

We are going to lead the reconquest, said Francisco Serrano, Voxs candidate for Andalusia. Thanks to Vox, groundhog day in Andalusia is over, he added, in reference to the fact that the PSOE has lost its absolute majority.

Since the beginning of the campaign, Vox has talked up the national significance of the Andalusian regional elections. The far-right party is convinced that a strong result on Sunday can be repeated at next years municipal, regional and European Parliament elections  and potentially at a national level if early general elections are called.

We want to encourage all Andalusian people to participate. The ballots could change everything. This is a historic day, not only for Andalusia but for all of Spain, Abascal said on Sunday morning ahead of the vote. Voters should think of Andalusia and of Spain. Here we are all for one and for Spain, Serrano repeated.

Vox has been voted into power without a government plan for the region. Only recently did the far-right group present a 100-point program for Spain, a plan that includes criminalizing illegal immigrants and suppressing the Andalusian regional assembly, the same one that it is now joining and which will give it funds as a member of the legislature.

Members of Vox say the success of the party is due to the fact that it has connected with a very important part of the Andalusian electorate. We have touched on points that truly interest them.

Vox believes that their strong result can be repeated at next years municipal, regional and European Parliament elections

Vox has been the party that has marked the political debate of these elections. We have put border control and stopping the invasion of illegal immigration on the table, said Javier Ortega, Vox secretary general, after the first projected results were announced.

The party is against same-sex marriage and abortion, and has centered many of its attacks on migrants and the Muslim community. Vox wants undocumented migrants to be denied medical attention in Spain and has also spoken of putting up an impassable wall in the Spanish exclave cities of Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa  a measure similar to US President Donald Trumps border wall with Mexico.

The party has also spoken about suspending the Schengen Area while there are Catalan independence leaders  such as former Catalan premier Carles Puigdemont  hiding from justice in other European countries, shutting down regional television networks, lowering taxes, especially for those in the highest income bracket, freeing up land, promoting a law to protect bullfighting and suppressing the law against sexist violence.

English version by Melissa Kitson.Vox has swept its way into the Andalusian regional parliament on a national platform that includes no specific plans for the region. The far-right party rejects Spains highly decentralized system granting devolved powers to the regions (known in Spanish as the Estado autonomico), even though this system is encoded in the Spanish Constitution. Vox also does not believe in the electoral system that has just earned it nearly 400,000 votes and 12 seats in the regional legislature.

With a populist 100-point program that smacks of Donald Trump (including calls for an insurmountable wall along the borders of the Spanish exclave cities of Ceuta and Melilla), Voxs Andalusian candidate, Francisco Serrano, aims to begin the reconquest of Spain, alluding to the Reconquista period when Christian kingdoms reclaimed Muslim-held territory across the Iberian peninsula.

Vox wants to increase awareness about Spains contribution to civilization and to universal history

The following are the main ideas guiding the 100-point program defended by Vox, whose leaders will now take aim at local, regional and possibly national elections in Spain next year.

The structure of power. Vox rejects Spains current system of devolved regional powers. Point 6 of the program clearly states as a goal: Transforming the Estado autonomico into a state with a single set of laws that will promote equality and solidarity instead of privilege and division. One single government and one single parliament for all of Spain. As a preliminary step, [we want] the immediate devolution of powers over education, health, security and justice, and to curtail regional legislative power as much as possible.

National heroes. The party wants to introduce an integral plan to encourage knowledge, awareness and protection of the national identity and of Spains contribution to civilization and to universal history, with a special focus on the achievements and deeds of our own national heroes. Vox wants to put the needs of Spain and Spaniards ahead of the needs of oligarchies, chieftains, lobbies or supranational groups.

Celebrating the outcome of the election in Seville on Sunday. Felipe Guzman (GTRES)

No to the gender violence law. Another one of Voxs goals is repealing the gender violence law and any other law that discriminates against one of the sexes, and replace it with a family violence law that will afford the same protection to the elderly, men, women and children who suffer from abuse. Eliminating subsidized radical feminist groups, and effectively prosecuting phony complaints. Protecting minors during divorce proceedings. Vox also wants to create a Family Ministry and introduce an organic law protecting the natural family, which shall be recognized as an institution that came before the State.

No to immigration. The party plans to control immigration flows depending on the needs of our national economy and of the new arrivals ability to integrate into Spanish society and accept our values. There will be country quotas with favorable treatment for nationalities who share our language and who have significant cultural and friendship ties with Spain. As for illegal immigrants, Vox wants to deport them all and to go after non-profit groups that help them get to Spain. If a migrant still manages to enter the country illegally, he or she will be permanently ineligible for legal status, and thus ineligible for any form of state aid. Years of residency will not be considered an acceptable cause for naturalization.

Voxs position on taxes is the less, the better

Eliminating wasteful spending. Vox wants to cut back on wasteful spending, although few details are provided. Overall, the party wants no more regional authorities, political spending, arbitrary appointments, advisors, official cars, or subsidies for political parties, unions and business associations. The Constitutional Court would be eliminated altogether and its tasks assigned to the Supreme Court. The Senate would also be axed.

Education and health. The party proposes one single system of public healthcare and education for the entire national territory in order to guarantee that all Spaniards are free and equal in terms of their right to public services. Vox also wants to introduce Spanish language examinations at the end of each mandatory school cycle, and to request express parental authorization before children receive an education in ethical, social, civic, moral or sexual values.

Vox president Santiago Abascal celebrating at a hotel in Seville. Rafa Alcaide (EFE)

Taxes? What taxes? Voxs position on taxes is the lower, the better. The party is proposing a single income tax rate of 21%, with an exemption for the first 12,000 of earnings plus a 3,000 deduction for every child or dependent relative in the household. This will represent 250 a month more in paychecks and pensions, says the party. Vox wants lower corporate and property taxes, and it plans to lift all taxes on electricity bills. The party is also proposing doing away entirely with estate tax, inheritance tax and capital gains tax. Finally, Vox wants lower social security contributions for self-employed workers.

Fight against corruption. Vox wants to eliminate government pardons, to establish tougher punishment for corruption-related crimes, and a judicial power that is national in scope, independent, and professional. The program adds that Vox would include wasteful spending by elected officials as a new offense in the criminal code.

Islamic fundamentalism. Vox wants to shut down fundamentalist mosques, to regain control of our borders, and to arrest and deport extremist imams. The party also opposes the idea of Turkey joining the European Union. Spain should participate in military combat missions against the Jihadist threat and build an insurmountable wall in Ceuta and Melilla. Vox also wants to reclaim Gibraltar and to recover our sway in Europe and the world  the sway that our people, our economy and our history deserve.

English version by Susana Urra.Rescued migrants on board Nuestra Madre Loreto. Javier Fergo (AP)

Spain will accept at least 11 of the 12 migrants rescued several weeks ago by the Spanish fishing vessel Nuestra Madre Loreto off the coast of Libya, according to Maltese authorities. The migrants were rescued by the fishermen while fleeing the Libyan Coast Guard on a rubber dinghy. Three of them scrambled on board while another eight threw themselves into the water and were picked up by the ship.

Malta did not have an obligation to take them in because they were not rescued in Maltese waters and Malta was not the closest port

Maltese Interior Minister Kurt Farrugia

At the time of the rescue, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez claimed that the migrants should be returned to Libya as it was the nearest point and therefore the safest. Humanitarian organizations, including the UNs Refugee Agency UNHCR, criticized Spains decision to leave the migrants fate in the hands of Libya, which is known to auction off and torture migrants.

Pascual Dura, the fisherman in charge of the ship, was also concerned about the danger and set course instead for Spain on Saturday.

[The migrants] are fleeing from these barbarities. They jumped into the water precisely because they were trying to escape the Libyan [Coast Guard]. Also it could be dangerous for us because if they realize we are getting closer, they could stage a mutiny, explains Dura from a satellite phone on his boat.

On the way back to Spain, the 29-year-old was informed that Malta had given the ship authorization to bring the migrants to shore. The deal included the 12th migrant, who was brought to Malta last Friday for health problems.

We couldnt leave them there. It was our duty to rescue them. I wont leave anyone to drown in front of me

Fishing vessel captain Pascual Dura

Maltas interior minister and head of national security, Kurt Farrugia, told Reuters this was a temporary solution for humanitarian reasons.

According to Farrugia, the rescued migrants will be taken to Spain once they receive medical attention and recover. Malta did not have an obligation to take them in because they were not rescued in Maltese waters and Malta was not the closest port, said Farrugia in a message on Twitter.

When asked about the situation on Sunday morning, Spains Deputy Prime Minister Carmen Calvo did not want to provide any information on the conditions of the negotiations or confirm whether or not Spain would accept the migrants.

Malta refused to opens its ports until the very last minute and it was not until midnight on Sunday that Nuestra Madre Loreto was given authorization. The ship, however, was not allowed to dock in Malta but was instead met by another boat 12 miles off the coast, said Dura.

The Spanish fishing family that refused to look the other way Natalia Junquera "They threw themselves into the water, they were desperate to flee the Libyan patrol. We couldn't leave them there. It was our duty to rescue them. I won't leave anyone to drown in front of me," says Pascual Dura. Unsure how to handle the dramatic situation, Dura called his boss and father Jose Dura and they decided it was best not to move the boat "because the propeller could suck them in." In 2006, his father rescued 51 migrants and another 26 in 2007. Almost 100 migrants have been rescued by the family from Santa Pola in Alicante. Pascual is a keen supporter of the conservative Popular Party (PP) and was on the group's electoral list in Santa Pola. But he disagrees with the party's theory that rescuing migrants creates a so-called "magnet effect" that encourages more people to make the dangerous journey. "Governments of whatever nation should be worried about their own people but also about human rights. Here neither of these things has been addressed," says Pascual. His father agrees: "Countries have to agree to a protocol but they should first imagine what it would be like if they had a car accident, they were bleeding and lots of cars were passing by, looking at them and driving on. You have to put yourself in these people's shoes." Despite the language barrier, Pascual understood that the migrants did not want to be handed over to Libya. "One boy made a huge impact on me. He climbed onto the boat, raised his arms, celebrating that he had escaped then fell like a sack to the floor. They were destroyed," he explains. The boy was evacuated by helicopter with convulsions to a hospital in Malta. When asked whether he would do it again, Pascual doesn't think twice: "Of course," comes his reply.

English version by Melissa Kitson.Finance Minister Maria Jesus Montero announced on Monday that parents who received paternity or maternity payments in the last four years from the Spanish Social Security system will be able to reclaim the income tax (known in Spain as IRPF) they paid on those benefits from this afternoon onward. The minister added that by April of next year, all of the rebates should have been paid out.

The total cost to the public coffers will be around 1.2 billion

On October 5, a Supreme Court ruling put paid to a legal debate that had been on the table for years: whether or not maternity and paternity benefits should be subject to IRPF. While the Tax Agency argued that they should, some courts had ruled the other way. The Supreme Court eventually found in favor of the taxpayer  albeit referring only to maternity benefits, raising doubts as to whether fathers would be able to put in a claim. But last week the finance minister confirmed that men would also be eligible for the rebate.

Taxpayers will only be able to claim in the years back to 2014, given that the Tax Agency only allows for revisions to returns filed in the last four years.

Applicants will have to fill out a form to make their claims, stating merely the years during which they received said payments, and supplying their bank account details. The process can be either done online or in person at one of Spains tax offices.

The rebates can be applied for in two phases, with parents of children born in 2014 and 2015 able to reclaim their taxes from today onward, and those who had children in 2016 and 2017 from January onwards. The process will be staggered in this way to avoid an overload of the Tax Agency website and administration.

Last week the finance minister confirmed that men would also be eligible for the rebate

The total cost to the public coffers will be around 1.2 billion, with the average rebate for mothers coming in at around 1,600 and fathers 383. This is due to the differing duration of leave allowed for men and women when they have a child.

Applicants will not need to supply a certificate proving that the taxpayer has received maternity or paternity benefits, given that the Spanish Tax Agency will crosscheck applications against Social Security records.

In the case of benefits received during the current tax year (starting January 1, 2018), there will be no need to make any such application, as the amounts received will be treated as exempt from IRPF and any withholding will be deductible on tax returns when filed next year.

English version by Simon Hunter.National Energy Company Ukrenergo has launched second 750/330 kV 999 MVA autotransformer at the Kyivska 750 kV substation, the press service of the enterprise has reported.

The press service said that the new AT-1 has the SERGI modern monitoring and fire protection system. The monitoring system allows remotely monitoring the main modes of operation of the AT-1, generates warning and alarm signals regarding the limiting modes of its operation, allows tracking the technical condition of the autotransformer and, if necessary, taking measures in a timely manner.

The project to install the second autotransformer at the Kyivska substation was implemented by Ukrenergo together with the Croatian company Dalekovod at the expense of loan funds from the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

According to Deputy Director for Operational Management, Chief Dispatcher of Ukrenergo Vitaliy Zaichenko, the establishment of the second autotransformer reduced the load on the existing 750/330 kV autotransformers in Kyiv region, which, in turn, increases the reliability of power supply to Kyiv region and city.

"After the completion of the construction of diversions of the Chornobyl NPP-Kyivska and Pivnichna-Kyivska 330 kV transmission lines, which will connect the Kyivska 750 kV substation to the 330 kV networks of the Kyiv energy complex, this substation will provide 1 GW of additional power to the Rivne and Khmelnytsky NPPs. This will reduce the dependence of consumer power on the generation of Kyiv's combined heat and power plant five (CHPP) and CHPP six, which burn gas. It will increase the reliability of energy supply and give a new impetus to the industrial and economic development of Kyiv region," he said.

Ukrenergo operates trunk and interstate transmission lines, as well as centralized dispatching of the country's integrated power grids. Ukrenergo is a state-owned enterprise under Ukraine's Ministry of Energy and Coal Industry, but it will be transformed into a private joint-stock company soon.Bulgaria Air has annulled direct flights Odesa-Sofia until December 16 inclusively.

"Due to the declared military situation in Ukraine and the recommendations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and for the safety of the passengers, the national carrier Bulgaria Air suspended its flights between Sofia and Odessa until 16 December 2018 inclusive," the airline said on its website.

Depending on the normalization of the situation in Ukraine it will be determined whether flights that are due after December 16 can be executed, Bulgaria Air said.

Earlier, ex-head of the State Aviation Service of Ukraine Denys Antoniuk said that the introduction of martial law in Ukraine would not affect operation of civil aviation.Ukraine in January-November 2018 reduced import of natural gas by 22.8% (by 2.983 billion cubic meters) compared to the same period in 2017, to 10.113 billion cubic meters, according to data from JSC Ukrtransgaz.

According to Interfax-Ukraine calculations, in particular imports from the Slovak side during the period amounted to 6.232 billion cubic meters (32.6% less compared to January-November 2017), Hungary some 3.224 billion cubic meters (19.3% more), and from Poland some 657.1 million cubic meters (43% less).

In November 2018, imports amounted to 971.2 million cubic meters of gas, which is 26.2% less than in November 2017.

At the same time, Ukraine for more than three years (from November 26, 2015) has not been importing natural gas under the contract with PJSC Gazprom, purchasing resources exclusively at its western border.

Ukrtransgaz, 100% of which belongs to NJSC Naftogaz Ukrainy, operates a system of trunk gas pipelines and 12 underground gas storage facilities of the country.President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko met with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland Jacek Czaputowicz on Saturday to exchange views on important issues of bilateral relations and the international agenda, the website of the Ukrainian president has reported.

"They discussed the issue of maintaining an intensive political dialogue at the highest level, expanding cooperation in the areas of trade and economy, defense, energy security and cross-border cooperation," the message reads.

Poroshenko thanked the Polish side for the active support of Ukraine in the context of the act of armed aggression of the Russian Federation in the Kerch Strait. The parties emphasized the importance of immediate and unconditional release of Ukrainian sailors and the return of three Ukrainian ships.

The Polish foreign minister conveyed words of solidarity and support to Ukraine in its struggle for the restoration of sovereignty and territorial integrity from all EU member-states.

The parties also exchanged views on important issues of bilateral relations and international agenda.

The parties coordinated steps to use authoritative international platforms (the UN Security Council, the Council of Ministers of the OSCE, the Council of the EU) for the immediate restoration of freedom of navigation in the Azov-Kerch water area and de-escalation of the situation in the region.Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has given new military equipment to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the press service of the Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council said.

"President Petro Poroshenko gave powerful military equipment at an airfield near Kyiv. MiG-29 multirole jet fighters, Su-27 heavy highly maneuverable all-weather jet fighters, combat and transport helicopters, L-39 training aircraft and unmanned aerial systems were given," the press service said in a statement.

Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council Secretary Oleksandr Turchynov, Ukrainian Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak and Ukrainian General Staff Chief Viktor Muzhenko, who were present at the ceremony, looked over An-77, Ukraine's new military transport aircraft.

The aircraft is "one of the best in its class and fully complies with NATO standards," Turchynov said.

"The aircraft needs just 800 meters of unprepared strip for taking-off and landing, which makes it unique. It is capable of transporting large and heavy hardware, helicopters and 300 paratroopers and should become the main aircraft of the Ukrainian Air Assault Forces," he said.Immigrant rights groups gathered on the steps of City Hall with elected officials to push for a long-awaited progressive cause: drivers licenses for any adult residing in the state, regardless of their immigration status.

Activists are newly emboldened by the results of the midterm elections, which saw significant Democratic gains in the State Senate.

Right now were looking at over 700,000 people who would benefit from this, said Javier Valdes, the co-executive director of Make the Road NY. So this is a huge impact, not only with people in the city but in Long Island and all throughout the state.

Valdes said that prior to the 9/11 attacks, immigrants in New York could get drivers licenses regardless of their status.

In 2007, Governor Eliot Spitzer attempted to re-introduce licenses for immigrants, via executive order, legislation and administrative measure, but each time he encountered fierce opposition from Republican legislators. The intensity of the backlash was encapsulated by the title of a legislative report they issued at the time, "Fiasco: The Governors Plan to Grant Illegal Aliens Drivers Licenses in New York State."

New Yorkers cannot and should not forget that 18 of the 19 hijackers involved in the 9-11 attack obtained drivers licenses to get through security points and kill Americans, State Senator Kenneth LaValle, who represents Long Island, said at the time.

Despite repeated attempts by Spitzer, and in the face of pushback from Lou Dobbs and other conservative media figures, the proposal went down.

But a slew of newly-elected Latino legislators have raised advocates' hopes. These include Senator Jessica Ramos, who represents Jackson Heights, Corona and Elmhurst, in Queens.

Ramos recounted the story of her own father, an immigrant who reported to work in Secaucus, New Jersey, and was detained by immigration officers.

And my mom and sister couldnt find him for three days, she said.

Making sure that we can keep our diversity and ensure that theres economic opportunity for our diversity is very, very important, said Ramos.

According to State Assemblywoman Carmen De La Rosa, 90 percent of the people held at one immigration detention facility, in Orange County, were detained because of traffic violations.

These are not the criminals that the conservative media sometimes wants to portray, she said. These are people who are going to work, have no other method of going to work.

Twelve states, including Connecticut, as well as Washington D.C., allow immigrants to acquire drivers licenses, according to advocates. Governor Andrew Cuomo has indicated he would sign a bill, if it comes to his desk.

Saima Anjam of the New York Immigration Coalition predicted that the measure would pass by the end of March.

Were still waiting to hear on who will be assigned which committee chairs, but given the widespread support that weve seen for this bill to date, were really hopeful that itll move.

In New Jersey, immigrant rights advocates are making a similar push for drivers licenses, and Anjam said its possible they would succeed before activists in New York.

Its just time for New York to catch up, she said.

Arun Venugopal is a reporter who focuses on issues of race and immigration. You can follow him on Twitter at @arunNYC.It is important to increase the naval presence of Germany and the allies in the Black Sea, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said, according to his press service.

"We need increase naval presence of Germany and the allies in the Black Sea as a deterring factor for Russia," Poroshenko said in an interview with German Funke Media Group.

"Russia's aggressive actions are unacceptable. The international community and the unified Europe should increase the pressure on Russia," he said.

"We need a strong, unified, clear reaction to Russia's aggressive behavior. We need to stop Nord Stream II. We need to think about new sanctions now," Poroshenko said.

"I believe that the European Union meeting in Brussels in December will become a timely opportunity to consider the situation based on the principle of solidarity and unity with Ukraine," Poroshenko said.President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko has said that Russia is preparing to establish air control over the territory where gas and oil pipelines to Europe pass. He said specific steps are needed to stop Russian aggression.

"I am convinced that the time of general political declarations has already passed and the aggression against Europe is unacceptable," he said in an interview with the Italian daily Corriere della Sera, the presidential press service reported on Saturday.

The president stressed that concrete steps should be taken to stop Russian aggression, such as "blocking the Nord Stream 2 project, strengthening NATO's presence in the Black Sea, introducing new sanctions against those responsible for the crisis in the Azov Sea, forbidding Russian ships from entering the European ports, supporting Ukraine in the political, economic and military spheres."

According to the president, attempts by some to charm the Russian President Vladimir Putin will only provoke a new attack by Russia on world order, freedom, and core values of democracy.

The president also stressed that there are two million people in Crimea who are terrorized by repressions, in Donbas there are more than 11,000 dead over the past four years and 1.5 million displaced persons.

He emphasized that Ukrainians never wanted to intensify the crisis.

"The clashes in the Kerch Strait were planned in Moscow. After the invasion of Donbas and aggression in Crimea, now they want to take the Azov Sea, force us out and take more our territories. Those who allow themselves to be misled by Kremlin propaganda are naive," the president stressed.

According to him, at present the tension in the Sea of Azov has attracted the attention of the international community, but at the same time Russian fighter planes violate Ukrainian airspace in different parts of the border and in the Baltic States.

"They are also preparing to take air control of the territory where gas and oil pipelines pass through delivering hydrocarbons to Europe. Putin threatens NATO's eastern borders. If you remain silent, Putin will know that he can continue to expand and gain new benefits," he stressed.

At the same time, he noted the joint European position and the requirement for the Kremlin to observe international law. In particular, the requirement for Russia to free Ukrainian sailors and to guarantee free navigation in the waters of the Kerch Strait.

He thanked U.S. President Donald Trump for his decision not to meet with Putin at the G20 summit.

"Now the Russian leader is in isolation. I am also grateful for the actions of Mrs. Merkel [German Chancellor Angela Merkel] to curb the expansion of Moscow. But this does not mean that Russians will not continue their invasion policy," he added.Klimkin: Russian ships could be banned from entering some ports due to aggression in Kerch Strait

Various options of international sanctions in the Kerch Strait are being considered, including banning Russian ships from calling at some ports from the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea due to Russia's aggression against Ukraine, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin has said.

"Sanctions are different. One of the ideas we are talking about is to ban Russian ships from entering some ports from the Sea of Azov or the Black Sea. Or ban some of them. And to limit all possible contacts," he said on the air of the Inter TV Channel.

The minister noted that there are many ideas of sanctions against the Russian Federation, and they are not exclusively economic.

According to him, the work on preparation of sanctions is underway, but he found it difficult to specify when they will be introduced.

He expressed hope that the United States' sanctions against Russia will be strengthened.Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Pavlo Klimkin has reported on a large-scale disinformation campaign in the eastern and southern regions of Ukraine regarding the circumstances and details of the attack of Russian security forces on the ships of Ukraine's Armed Forces' Navy near the Kerch Strait on November 25 and the capture of Ukrainian sailors.

Russian "fakes" are being spread in the eastern and southern regions of Ukraine via social networks saying that "sailors planned large-scale provocations to stir up the situation before the elections, in particular, to blow up the bridge across the Kerch Strait," the minister said on his Facebook page on Friday.

"I am convinced that the main thing in any situation is people. And you need to talk with them. You need to go to the regions that are the target of this large-scale disinformation campaign. In the near future I plan to do this," wrote Klimkin on Facebook on Friday.Ukraine has denied entry to 189 Russian citizens traveling by air through the Minsk airport over the past week, and they had to return to Minsk, Belarusian State Border Committee spokesperson Anton Bychkovsky told Interfax.

"A total of 228 Russian citizens traveling via Belarus have been denied entry [by Ukraine] since last Monday, including 189 traveling by air to various Ukrainian airports, mostly to Kyiv (nearly 170 people)," Bychkovsky said.

"Ukraine has also denied entry to another 39 people [traveling by land], mostly those crossing road checkpoints," he said.Russian authorities must provide information about the seizure of Ukrainian sailors and the legal grounds for their detention, their place of detention, injuries and medical assistance, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has said, citing the decision of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) on Monday, December 3. Poroshenko said he hopes Russia would comply with the ruling.

"The ECHR in response to the appeal of Ukraine has already issued an urgent and important decision - obliged Russia to provide information about the captured seamen and the legal grounds for their retention, the place of their retention, the injuries caused and the provision of medical care. This information, in accordance with the court decision, Russia should provide today," Poroshenko said at the forum "Seventy Years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: Agenda for Ukraine" in Kyiv on Monday.The status of Ukrainian sailors as prisoners of war, according to the Geneva Convention, does not allow exchanging them for criminals, Liudmyla Denisova, Verkhovna Rada's Commissioner for Human Rights, has said.

"The Geneva Convention on Prisoners of War, to which Ukraine is a signatory, has been in effect since 1955. It is clearly defined: if they are prisoners of war, there can be no exchange for criminals," she said in Kyiv on Monday.

The ombudswoman said the status of seafarers as prisoners of war does not allow their case to be considered in a regular court. They cannot be kept in pretrial confinement facilities, including the Lefortovo prison, where they are currently kept.

"This is a special status, and a special model of their release," Denisova said.

As earlier reported, on November 25, Russian border guards captured the Yani Kapu tugboat and small armored artillery boats of Ukraine's Naval Forces. The prisoners of war were transported to Moscow on November 29.

On December 3, Nikolai Polozov, a lawyer for one of the sailors, said Russia would charge the seamen with illegally crossing Russia's border.Combat actions in Donbas, corruption in government agencies, and a low production level are among the major problems of Ukraine, a poll conducted by Sociological Group Rating has revealed.

According to the result of a recent poll, when asked "which three problems from among the following are the most pressing for Ukraine," 57% of the people polled said it was combat actions in Donbas, 49% said it was corruption and 26% said it was too low a production level.

Among the other problems mentioned were price hikes (24%,) unemployment (22%,) incompetence of authorities (21%.)

The peopled polled also mentioned political instability (16%,) social protection of poor people (13%,) relations with Russia (11%,) and hryvnia's depreciation (11%) as problems for the nation.

At the same time, arrears of wages and pensions, environmental issues, troubled supplies of gas, electricity, and water were of concern only to 3% of the people polled for each option. Only 2% of the people polled said the land ownership rights were of a problem, as well as the status of the Russian language.

At the same time, when asked which problems were the most pressing ones for themselves, the people polled said it was price hikes (68%,) combat actions in Donbas (29%,) hryvnia's depreciation (27%,) unemployment (24%,) health care system (22%,) and social protection of poor people (20%.)

Only 1% of those polled said the status of the Russian language in Ukraine was of great concern to them.

At the same time, relations with Russia was a big personal issue for 4% of Ukrainians, and another 2% of the people polled were concerned about Russia's presence in Crimea.

The poll entitled "The Dynamics of Socio-Political Views in Ukraine" was conducted from September 28 to October 14, 2018, by Sociological Group Rating by order of the International Republican Institute (IRI.)

A total of 2,400 people aged 18 and above were polled across Ukraine in formal face-to-face interviews. The non-sampling error is no more than 2%.Police conduct searches of eight buildings associated with UOC-MP in Zhytomyr region

Police in Zhytomyr region have said several buildings involving the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate) have been searched.

Some eight searches are being conducted within the framework of the investigation of criminal proceedings under Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, the regional police told the Kyiv-based Interfax-Ukraine news agency on December 3. Police added that the local office of Ukraine's SBU State Security Service participated.

Searches are conducted within the framework of the investigation of criminal proceedings initiated under Article 161 (violation of equality of citizens depending on their racial, nationality, religious beliefs, disability and other grounds) of Ukraine's Criminal Code in Zhytomyr, Korosten, Ovruch and Kyiv, the police said.

The searches are being conducted within the framework of an investigation involving Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra locum Pavlo, a source told Interfax-Ukraine. In addition, the UOC-MP's information department said SBU agents in three buses arrived in Voronky, Boryspil district, Kyiv region on November 30, 2018 to conduct a search.Russia is a follower of the Soviet Union in its defiance of human rights, and Ukraine will continue to stand for the protection of human rights and freedoms even in times of greatest challenges, Verkhovna Rada Chairman Andriy Parubiy has said.

"Even during the times of greatest challenges, we will continue to stand for the development of democratic processes and protection of human rights and freedoms. This is a fundamental difference between Ukraine and the Evil Empire, the Russian Federation," he said in his address to a forum in Kyiv, which was called to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Ukrainian parliament's speaker said Ukraine's adherence to the protection of human rights can also be confirmed by the fact that after martial law was introduced in part of Ukraine, the Verkhovna Rada did not hesitate to schedule the presidential elections for March 31, 2019.

Parubiy recalled the delegation from the Soviet Union had not voted for the Declaration of Human Rights.

"It is worth noting that according to the tradition of the Evil Empire, which in 1948 opposed signing that document, the Kremlin today continues the same policy as in the times back then," he said.

The speaker recalled that the Russian president called the collapse of the Soviet Union the greatest tragedy of the 20th century.

"Today [Russian president] Putin is obsessed with the idea of restoring the influence and traditions of the Soviet Union, the Evil Empire, which showed to the entire world at that time that it did not wish to and would not respect human rights. Therefore, today's regime [in Russia] are ideological followers of the Soviet Union," Parubiy said.Swarms of impatient shoppers, all clamoring for Poang chairs and sheepskins probably, will soon descend on Midtown: IKEA has announced that it plans to open its first U.S. "city center" outpost in Manhattan this spring. According to a press release issued Monday, the IKEA Planning Studio will occupy 999 Third Avenue, a space opposite the original Bloomingdale's at 59th Street. (The location was previously occupied by Urban Outfitters.)

"We recognize that we are in a rapidly changing retail environment, and to be fit for long-term growth, IKEA is transforming in a way that lets us meet our customers where they are," said Lars Petersson, Country Manager of IKEA Retail U.S. "New York City is the natural choice to open the first city center storethe most vibrant, dynamic city in the U.S., and the epicenter of retail, business, and culture."

According to the Wall Street Journal, the announcement comes as the Scandinavian furniture giant reconsiders its retail approach across the board. Although IKEA has mostly avoided the fate of its brick and mortar peers, whichparticularly in New York, where rents continue to rise at untenable rates that hit small operations particularly hardhave been vanishing as e-commerce consumes their business. IKEA will reportedly eliminate 7,500 jobs, primarily corporate roles, as it reconfigures its stores to better fit customers' buying habits.

The Journal reports that 80 percent of IKEA consumers investigate their selections online before purchasing them in-store; although that would seem to suggest that the company's display rooms have become less relevant to the IKEA retail experience, it reportedly aims to drive store traffic by paring down the products stocked on site, while also expanding "space for more mocked up living rooms and bedrooms." In other words, it plans to open outposts where customers can view bigger purchases in person, without navigating a labyrinthine warehouse full of incidentals. IKEA anticipates that this scheme will result in 30 new urban-centered stores and 11,500 jobs in the next two years.

An IKEA spokesperson told Curbed that the Manhattan Planning Studio won't carry the wide range of smaller decorative objects available at the Red Hook site. Don't expect meatballs, either: This location will be a showroom, where people can buy larger furniture items like beds and sofas for delivery only. So at least we're not looking at exhausted hordes attempting to wrestle boxed bed frames onto the narrow escalators at the 59th Street - Lexington Avenue subway station.

According to the press release, the company incorporated input from New Yorkers in conceptualizing the coming storefront, which it says "will focus smart solutions for urban living and small spaces"i.e., innovative new ways for you to build more storage into the fridge bed cannibalizing all 140 square feet of your microstudio.

Funding for the state targeted program for the development of the defense industry of Ukraine until 2022, approved by the country's leadership in 2017, should be more than UAH 1 billion, according to Ukroboronprom state concern.

The press service of the state concern said, with reference to the data voiced during a meeting on the defense industry development in Shostka (Sumy region) with the participation of the interested agencies, the state program exceeding UAH 1 billion, implemented under the supervision of the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, provides for a phased upgrade of the industry's production capacity to ensure the mass production of ammunition in the interests of the Armored Forces of Ukraine.

The first stage of the state program in 2019 includes technical re-equipment of the leading Ukrainian manufacturer of special powder, Shostka State Plant Zirka. Today the company has already signed the first contracts with the Ministry of Defense for a total of about UAH 80 million for production of cellulose nitrate smokeless powder within the framework of the state defense order for 152 mm large-caliber artillery ammunition, Ukroboronprom said.

According to the report, since 2014 more than UAH 40 million has been invested in the development of the state-owned enterprise. The issue of organizing the uninterrupted operation of Shostka State Plant Zirka is today also under the control of local authorities, the press service reports.On Wednesday, December 5, at 11.00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a press conference entitled "The State Wants to Complicate Lives of Labor Migrants," where a draft amendment to the Law of Ukraine "On Employment and Compulsory State Social Insurance against Unemployment," the government is currently preparing, which will lead to a shadowing of the international employment market, will be revealed.

Participants include President of the All-Ukrainian Association of International Employment Companies Vasyl Voskoboynyk; Vice President for Crewing of the All-Ukrainian Association of International Employment Companies Viacheslav Kyslovsky; Lawyer, Chairman of the Law Association "Voichenko and Dulsky" Serhiy Voichenko (8/5a Reitarska Street). Press registration and additional information by phone: (050) 630 5097 (Mykola Oleksandrov).The Iranian embassy in Georgia has confirmed reports on December 2 about the deportation or entry ban of dozens of Iranian citizens from the Caucasus country.

Georgia is one of the countries in Irans vicinity that has visa free travel for Iranians and many visit the country or even choose to obtain residence permits and live in the Georgian capital Tbilisi.

Earlier Fars news agency had reported that Georgia has been stopping Iranian travelers at its airport or ports of entry in the last few weeks, but the trend has accelerated in recent days, reaching 46 deportations.

Fars said 18 Iranians, with return tickets and travel insurance, were not allowed to enter Georgia on November 30 and were put on a flight back to Iran.

The report also says that the new tough policy towards Iranians might be the result of Salome Zurabishvilis election as Georgias new president who has a tough immigration policy.

Fars quotes witnesses who say Georgian border security officers randomly pick out visitors arriving on flights from Iran and after an interview tell them they are not allowed to enter Georgia and must return.

The Iranian embassy in Tbilisi says that it is pursuing the issue with Georgian authorities and asking for clarification of immigration laws and regulations and satisfactory explanation for the deportations.Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said during a lecture at Chatham House in London in February that "Iran will leave the nuclear deal if there are no benefits for Tehran in staying in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and if the banks continue to refuse cooperating with the Islamic Republic of Iran."

Just days ago Araqchi reiterated, "The benefits of JCPOA for Iran are next to nil."

Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had also said in an interview: "We have a right to leave the JCPOA, but there are other options too, and we should see how those options can meet the interests of our people."

In this case, it is not illogical to think that if Iran withdraws from the nuclear deal with the West, one needs to stress that in non-democratic regimes, serving the people's interests do not appear to be the government's priority. So, Zarif is probably talking about the interests of the Iranian government. The Iranian political establishment's priority is "surviving" at any price.

Furthermore, Zarif represents the government or what he calls the political system, rather than representing the people.

Other Iranian officials have spoken about leaving JCPOA in more radical terms. For instance, Iran's Security Chief Ali Shamkhani said in May that "If Trump fails to continue implementing the JCPOA for any reason, this would be tantamount to the deal's collapse, and we should not restrain ourselves any longer."

The course of events, however have proven so far that Iran will restrain itself because it does not have a defined and stable strategy in its foreign relations and would react differently to various events depending on how powerful the other side is.

Iran's nuclear Chief Ali Akbar Salehi has warned that Europe's inability to fulfil its commitments will have undesirable consequences. However, he did not explain whether this means that Iran would return to the Pre-JCPOA level of uranium enrichment, or would continue its ambitious missile program with renewed rigor? Or maybe Tehran's reaction would be a combination of the two measures.

Iran's diplomacy is currently in a deadlock, waiting for Europe's action to save the JCPOA. The regime lacks the people's trust and at the same time its "terrorist acts" have disappointed even its European supporters. In such a situation, and considering the state of Iran's economy Tehran is facing two different scenarios.

First Scenario

Iran's first choice is accepting the status quo and the benefits that are "next to nil." Europe's action to stop the impact of US sanctions have not been fruitful so far. European banks and financial institutions are not interested in working with Iran. Meanwhile, there is still no clear prospect for exchanging Iran's oil and gas with European manufactured goods.

Although Iran does not favour such a scenario, yet it is inevitable while Europe has not come up with a tangible initiative, and there is nothing else Iran could do.

The Second Scenario(s)

Iran's second choice is leaving the JCPOA. But if it does so, it will lose more support from Europe, although in an optimistic scenario Europe might still not support U.S. sanctions against Iran. Even so, the situation would still have repercussions for Iran's foreign and economic relations.

But in a pessimistic scenario, Europe may join the U.S. in imposing sanctions, especially if Iran resumes a full-fledged nuclear effort.

Also, challenges between Iran and Europe over Tehran's missile program, regional ambitions and terror plans in Europe could justify such an action.

Some Iranian hardliners might welcome this scenario. They can take advantage of the Rouhani administration's weakness and control the government and claim the lion's share of political and executive power. However, this will lead to more isolation and provide no tangible benefits.

It appears that the "next to nil benefits" scenario is Tehran's favorite option, and it will accept the same, regardless of all of the complains we hear from Tehran.

The views expressed in this analysis are the author's own and do not necessarily represent those of Radio Farda.JERUSALEM, Dec 3 (Reuters)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels later on Monday, the prime minister's office said in a statement.

It said the meeting was arranged last week and that "developments in the region" would be discussed, although it did not provide details. Pompeo is an outspoken critic of Iran's nuclear program and he condemned on Saturday the latest missile test by the Islamic republic.

Netanyahu often uses meetings with international officials to push his agenda of halting Iran's nuclear ambitions. Israel also sees Tehran's moves to set up bases in neighboring Syria as a regional threat.

Netanyahu will be accompanied by the head of the Mossad spy agency, the Israeli national security adviser and his military attache, the statement said.

(Writing by Ori Lewis Editing by Paul Tait)Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

Trend:

The Office of the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, in accordance with its mandate, plans to conduct the next ceasefire monitoring on the line of contact (LOC) between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops Dec. 4 in the Fuzuli district, the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan said in a message on Dec. 3.

The Personal Representatives field assistants Ognjen Jovic and Simon Tiller will carry out the monitoring from the territory of Azerbaijan.

The Personal Representatives field assistants Michael Olaru, Ghenadie Petrica and Martin Schuster will carry out the monitoring on the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan occupied and controlled by the armed forces of Armenia.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts.

The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Rashid Shirinov  Trend:

The European Union should be involved in the negotiations on the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Honorary Consul of Azerbaijan in Stuttgart Otto Hauser told Trend.

Azerbaijan is an important partner for Europe, and partnership is not a one way street. After all, Azerbaijan supplies us with oil and in the future also with gas, he noted.

Hauser further said that the right of Azerbaijanis to return to Nagorno-Karabakh and other occupied territories should be the first step in the settlement of the conflict.

Nagorno-Karabakh is a territory of Azerbaijan and there is no doubt about that. Azerbaijani IDPs should be able to return to their homes, he stressed.

The honorary consul also noted the importance of implementation of the four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of the Armenian armed forces from Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.

This is the will of the international community, he said.

Hauser also stressed that confidence building steps have to be taken as they help to intensify the negotiation process.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts.

The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @ShirinovRashidBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Matanat Nasibova  Trend:

The OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs must be more active in forcing Armenia into holding substantive negotiations with Azerbaijan for the problem to be resolved through a constructive dialogue of the sides, well-known Azerbaijani political analyst, former diplomat Fikret Sadikhov told Trend.

Sadikhov was commenting on the upcoming meeting of Azerbaijani and Armenian ministers mediated by co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group.

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov and Acting Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan mediated by the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France and Andrew Schofer of the US) will meet on December 5 on the sidelines of the 25th OSCE Ministerial Council in Milan.

Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk will also participate in the meeting devoted to the discussion of the negotiation process on the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

One of the reasons for the stagnation in the negotiation process is the crisis of the OSCE Minsk Group format, which for many years has demonstrated passivity in a mediation mission in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement, Sadikhov said.

"None of the mediating countries in the OSCE Minsk Group format shows sufficient activity in the negotiation process, Sadikhov said. The results of visits of international mediators to the region, in particular to Armenia, Azerbaijan and the occupied Nagorno-Karabakh region testify to that.

None of the mediating countries exert sufficient pressure on Armenia to force it to implement the resolutions of the UN Security Council, he said. I think that along with calls for the need for holding substantive negotiations, international mediators must come up with a specific package of proposals aimed at resolving the conflict.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts.

The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @MatanatNasibovaBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

There are strong relations between Azerbaijan and the UAE, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Azerbaijan Mohamed Ahmed Hamel Alqubaisi said.

Alqubaisi made the remarks at an event in Baku on Dec. 3 dedicated to the 47th anniversary of the creation of UAE.

Bilateral relations based on the principles of respect and cooperation, visits of the presidents, trade, economic and cultural relations, increasing tourist flow from the UAE to Azerbaijan testify to strong relations in various areas, the diplomat said.

The ambassador also stressed that an event dedicated to the three-year anniversary of the establishment of the Chamber of Commerce between Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates, which contributed to the expansion of ties, was held two weeks ago.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_ZeynBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

Trend:

Presdent of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has received Minister of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of the Russian Federation Konstantin Noskov.

Minister of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of the Russian Federation Konstantin Noskov thanked for inviting him to attend Bakutel 2018, the 24th Azerbaijan International Telecommunications, Innovations and High Technologies Exhibition in Baku. He highlighted a parallel meeting of the ministers of communications of the regional countries as part of the Regional Communication Union in Baku. The minister noted that this meeting and Bakutel exhibition will contribute to the expansion of international cooperation. Konstantin Noskov also hailed the successful cooperation between the relevant ministries of Russia and Azerbaijan. He said that the postal services of the two countries enjoy mutually beneficial collaboration, which allows to send large volumes of electronic trade products from China to Russia through Azerbaijan. Konstantin Noskov also pointed out ongoing talks on cooperation between mobile network operators of Azerbaijan and Russia.

President Ilham Aliyev praised the participation of Minister of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of the Russian Federation Konstantin Noskov in the 24th Bakutel exhibition, and stressed the importance of the gathering of communications ministers as part of the Regional Communication Union in expanding international cooperation. Emphasizing the growing international interest and the number of participating countries in Bakutel, which is traditionally held in Baku, the head of state underlined that this event creates good opportunity to get acquainted with achievements in the fields of telecommunications and technologies and conduct the exchange of experience.

It was noted that bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Russia are successfully developing in all areas, including in the field of communications. The sides expressed confidence that the visit of the Russian minister of digital development, communications and mass media will contribute to the strengthening of the bilateral ties.

The sides also exchanged views on cooperation in cyber security between the two countries` relevant authorities, exchange of experience and prospects for implementation of joint projects with neighboring countries.Thousands of NYCHA residents were left without running water in their apartments this weekend, forcing some tenants to collect their own from a fire hydrant on Sunday night.

A video posted to Facebook by Clarisa Alayeto (a resident of Patterson Houses in the Bronx) shows dozens of exasperated tenants lined up with buckets and trash cans around a hydrant. According to the city's tracker, the entire developmenthome to 4,131 New Yorkersexperienced a disruption in water service on Sunday afternoon. Residents said the problems, including heat outages, persisted throughout the entire weekend.

"If you take the train 15 minutes down, you're in the richest part of the country," Alayeto said in a subsequent video, in which she called on Patterson residents to protest the outages. "There's no reason our people in Patterson Houses don't have water, and no reason why they have to come to the fire hydrant. It's demoralizing."

A spokesperson for the New York City Housing Authority blamed the reports on broken water pumps, and said crews were working to provide temporary pumps in the meantime. "This is yet another example of the problems we face given our aging infrastructure, but we must do better providing basic services despite these challenges," the spokesperson added.

As of Monday morning, however, pressure from the new pumps wasn't strong enough to make it to the top floors, and many are still without water, including seniors and children, CBS reports. According to Alayeto, running water problems have beset Patterson tenants over and over again, with unplanned disruptions as recently as two weeks ago.

Tenants also say they were left in the cold for months last wintera period in which 80 percent of citywide NYCHA apartments had heat and hot water outages, affecting more than 300,0000 tenants. A class action lawsuit filed earlier this year describes the way NYCHA residents were left to fend for themselves, with one Patterson Houses tenant creating their own "heating bus" outside the development by plugging in three space heaters.

On Monday, NYCHA tenants will rally alongside Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. outside the Patterson Houses. In a statement to Gothamist, Diaz Jr. said: This is entirely unacceptable. NYCHA tenants should not be forced to go without basic necessities and live in third-world conditions."Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Jani Babayeva, Sara Israfilbayova Trend:

Azerbaijan Gymnastics Federation is very strong both technically and economically, Naomi Valenzo, president of the Pan-American Gymnastics Union and member of the Executive Committee of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG), told Trend.

We appreciate the work the Federation has done, because not every federation can organize such events, she said.

Valenzo went on to say that the Congress is going very well and many important issues have been addressed.

She stressed that one of the important issues was inclusion of parkour in the list of disciplines.

Speaking of President of the European Union of Gymnastics (UEG) Farid Gayibov, she noted that he is doing a very good job.

I want to take an opportunity and to congratulate him with this job, and for bringing the Congress to Baku, Valenzo underlined.

Baku hosts the 82nd Congress of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG), which kicked off on Dec. 3.

About 300 representatives from more than 115 countries are taking part in the Congress, which, according to the FIG Charter, is the highest body of the FIG.Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

Trend:

Azerbaijans share in Germanys trade with the South Caucasus countries accounted for more than 70 percent, and during the first nine months of this year, it rose to 80 percent, Azerbaijani Deputy Economy Minister Rufat Mammadov said.

He was speaking as part of the first German-Azerbaijani Business Dialogue in Berlin, Azerbaijan's Economy Ministry said in a message.

Mammadov said that over 200 companies with German capital are registered in Azerbaijan, and Germany invested $560 million in Azerbaijan, 96 percent of which accounted for the non-oil sector.

He reminded that Azerbaijan successfully cooperates with the German organization GIZ, the KfW Development Bank.

There are great opportunities between the two countries for expanding cooperation in the fields of energy, agriculture, transport, education, pharmaceuticals, mechanical engineering, Mammadov said.

He noted that the EU Business Climate Report Azerbaijan 2018 prepared on the basis of the conclusion of EU companies of the German-Azerbaijani Foreign Trade Chamber highlighted top five business climate indicators  political stability, labor cost, infrastructure, productivity and qualification.

The event was held with the participation of more than 100 Azerbaijani and German companies. The meeting participants discussed issues of expanding cooperation between the business circles of the two countries, establishing bilateral relations with potential partners and business opportunities.

The speakers emphasized the importance of mutual high-level visits in expanding cooperation, the development of trade and economic relations between the two countries and the role of Azerbaijan in ensuring Europe's energy security.

During the visit, Mammadov met with co-chairman of the Azerbaijan-Germany High-Level Working Group, head of the external economic policy division at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy Eckhard Franz.

At the meeting, the sides highlighted broad possibilities for cooperation in the fields of energy, agriculture, transport, education, pharmaceuticals, mechanical engineering, etc., and an exchange of views on the expansion of economic ties took place.Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec.3

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

Hungary is interested in connecting to Baku-Tbilisi-Kars (BTK) railway, Hungarian Ambassador to Azerbaijan Viktor Szederkenyi told Trend.

For Hungary every infrastructural project is important, which connects Europe and Asia, said the envoy, adding that in this regard, the country attaches great importance to Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway.

"We consider that the BTK is a global, open project, and of course Hungarian side is interested in participating and connecting to it, because this railway line will shorten the transportation distance and time to and from Asia. This issue is regularly on the agenda of our political meetings," said Szederkenyi.

Further, the diplomat pointed out that the Alat Sea Trade Port project is examined by the Hungarian side, as well as the operating conditions of the free trade zone established in the port.

As the Alat harbor is operating at the intersection of the North-South and East-West transport corridors, Hungary sees that it is becoming the multimodal hub of the Caspian region, noted Szederkenyi.

"In general, we want Hungary to become Azerbaijans gateway to the EU markets, we also believe that Azerbaijan  through its multi-vectoral infrastructure projects  may become our gateway to the larger region," said the ambassador.

On October 30, 2017, a solemn ceremony on the occasion of the opening of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway was held at the Baku International Sea Trade Port.

The BTK railway is built on the basis of the Azerbaijani-Georgian-Turkish intergovernmental agreement. At the initial stage, the volume of freight traffic will be at the level of 6.5 million tons of cargo, as well as up to one million passengers will be transported through this railway.

The Port in Alat, which will become the biggest port on the Caspian Sea, is an important part of Azerbaijan's transport infrastructure.

The free economic zone is being created in Alat settlement upon the Azerbaijani presidents order signed in March 2016. The territory of the new Baku International Sea Trade Port is also included in the free economic zone.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_ZeynBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Fikret Dolukhanov  Trend:

Uzbekistan's passport ranked 68th in "The Passport Index 2018", from the Global Passport PowerRank, which compares the passports of different countries according to the principle of access of their citizens to other countries.

Citizens of Uzbekistan can visit 26 countries without a visa and receive a visa upon arrival in 37 countries. To travel to 135 states, Uzbek citizens will need to get a visa in advance.

In 2017, Uzbekistans passport was at 72-nd place.

In drawing up the ranking, the experts took into account the number of countries in which holders of a particular passport can enter without a visa. Authors of the Passport Index divided all passports into 93 groups.

The passport of the United Arab Emirates ranked first. Citizens of the UAE can visit 113 countries without a visa, and receive a visa upon arrival in 54 countries. They'll need to get a visa in advance when traveling to 31 countries.

The passport of Afghanistan took the last (93rd) place in the ranking. Citizens of this country are allowed visa-free entry only to five countries of the world, and can get a visa upon arrival at 24 countries. In 129 countries they need to apply for a visa in advance.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @FDolukhanovBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Rashid Shirinov  Trend:

A plant for the production of high-quality cement was launched In the city of Rudny in Kazakhstans Kostanay region, which will meet the needs of the construction industry of Kazakhstan and the southern regions of Russia, Kazakh media reported.

A total of $100 million of investments was spent on the implementation of the project.

Governor of the Kostanay region Arkhimed Mukhambetov, who attended the plant launch ceremony, noted that the state rendered support for its construction.

Director of the enterprise Artem Maklasov, in turn, spoke about the future plans.

"We plan to get the first products within 5 days. There is already a buyer for cement  from Ufa (Russia). They are ready to purchase about 200,000-300,000 tons of cement, that is 50 percent of the design capacity of the plant, the director said.

He also noted that the plant plans to produce 17,200 tons of cement by the end of the year.

According to Maklasov, now the plant employs 190 people, and with a maximum load of the plant, the number of workers will reach 304 people.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @ShirinovRashidBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Elnur Baghishov - Trend:

In the eight months of this Iranian year (started March 21, 2018), imports of goods via the customs of Irans Kermanshah province decreased by 37 percent in terms of weight and value compared with the same period last year, Khalil Heydari, director general of the Kermanshah Customs Administration, said in an interview with IRNA.

He said that 10,139 tons of goods worth $17.802 million were imported during eight months by the customs of the province.

He added that customs in Kermanshah district with 2,950 tons of imported goods worth $14.292 million has become the biggest importer of goods among other customs of the province.

He said that during the reporting period, 6,565 tons of goods worth $3.231 million were imported through Parvizkhan Customs.

This is a 39 percent decrease in terms of weight and a 77 percent decrease in terms of value compared with the same period last year, he noted.

He said that goods from 13 countries are imported to the province, noting that 914 tons of goods worth $7.459 million were imported from China through the Kermanshah customs.

During this period, 6,241 tons of goods worth $3.266 million were imported from Iraq, while 372 tons of goods worth $2.216 million were imported from Italy via the Kermanshah customs, he noted.

Chemical products, agricultural machinery and spare parts for various types of equipment were the main import items, he said.Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Azad Hasanli - Trend:

Amendments to the tax legislation in Azerbaijan, which will come into force Jan. 1, 2019, consider the interests of the business sector and have been developed in accordance with the strategic road maps, Samira Musayeva, director general of the Tax Policy Department of Azerbaijans Ministry of Taxes, said at a briefing Dec. 3.

She noted that the amendments are aimed at the implementation of the tasks set before the ministry in the strategic road maps.

In the process of their development, meetings with entrepreneurs were held and international trends were studied, she said.

Musayeva noted that the amendments can be divided into five areas: ensuring transparency of taxation, expanding the taxable base, improving tax administration, supporting the development of entrepreneurship, increasing the economic efficiency of benefits and exemptions.

She noted that one of the significant changes was the exemption of employees with a monthly income of up to 8,000 manats from income tax.

Another important amendment is the return to taxpayers of 15 percent of the goods value when implementing non-cash payments and 10 percent on the basis of a cash register check for cash payments, she said.

The changes also affect the articles on tax administration, she added.

In order to improve it, for example, next generation cash registers will be installed, and taxpayers will be registered in the area where they carry out economic activities, Musayeva said.

The issue of expanding the rights of taxpayers and supporting entrepreneurship was also discussed.

Musayeva said that according to the changes, simplified tax throughout Azerbaijan will be 2 percent (presently, it amounts to 4 percent for Baku and 2 percent for districts).

At the same time, in case of administrative complaints, the tax authorities will no longer withdraw funds from the deposit, but freeze them, she noted.

Entrepreneurs who will operate in clusters of small and medium businesses will be exempted from income tax, land tax and profit tax for a period of seven years, startups in the small and medium businesses segment will also receive benefits in the form of exemption from profit tax and income tax for a period of three years, she added.Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Fikret Dolukhanov  Trend:

A controlling interest in the Uzbek leasing company Alliance Leasing has been acquired by the UK-based hedge fund Sturgeon Central Asia Balanced Fund Ltd., the press service of the Toshkent Republican Stock Exchange, where the deal took place, told Trend.

It was earlier announced on the exchanges website that on Nov. 27 at 10:55, 26.67 million shares of Alliance Leasing worth 8 billion soums were sold.

According to the press service, the transaction on the acquisition of 72.21 percent of the shares of the Uzbek company was concluded with Sturgeon Central Asia Balanced Fund Ltd.

The press service of the exchange reminded that Alliance-Leasings securities have been included in category "C" of Tashkent RSEs exchange quotation list from Nov. 13, 2018 by the decision of the exchange board in accordance with the regulations on the exchange quotation list, as well as on the basis of the Listing Commissions conclusion.

Alliance Leasing was founded on Dec. 29, 2007.

Sturgeon Central Asia Balanced Fund Ltd is a hedge fund launched by Compass Asset Management. The fund is managed by Sturgeon Capital LLP. It invests in public equity and hedging markets. It was formerly known as Kazakh Compass Fund, Ltd.

Earlier, Sturgeon Central Asia Balanced Fund Ltd. also acquired shares of the Uzbek insurance company Universal Sugurta. Share of Sturgeon Central Asia Balanced Fund Ltd. in the authorized capital of Universal Sugurta is 39.6 percent.

(8299,20 UZS = 1 USD on Nov. 29)

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Follow the author on Twitter: @FDolukhanovBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

Azerbaijan will send trade delegations to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Dec. 8-11, Azerbaijani Economy Minister Shahin Mustafayev said.

Mustafayev made the remarks at an event in Baku on Dec. 3 dedicated to the 47th anniversary of the creation of the UAE.

"To promote our products under the 'Made in Azerbaijan' brand, we will organize the visits of trade delegations to Abu Dhabi and Sharjah on Dec. 8-11, the minister said. I would like to stress that Azerbaijans trade office launched its activity in UAE in 2017 and the establishment of Azerbaijans Trade House in Dubai is under completion."

He said UAE invested $2.1 billion in Azerbaijan, of which $1.3 billion was invested in the oil sector, while $806 million in the non-oil sector of the country.

Azerbaijan has invested $330 million in the UAE, the minister said, adding that about 300 UAE companies operate in Azerbaijan.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_ZeynBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Taleh Mursagulov - Trend:

Qatars withdrawal from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) may aggravate the downtrend in the oil market, Sabit Baghirov, ex-head of Azerbaijan's State Oil Company (SOCAR), well-known economist, told Trend on Dec. 3 commenting on the news of Qatars withdrawal in 2019.

"As you know, oil prices are very volatile and political factors play a role in this. I do not believe that Qatars withdrawal from the OPEC will lead to a domino effect and that OPEC countries are ready for this trend. But it can serve as a certain impetus in this direction, since Qatar is quite an influential country in the energy market," Bagirov said.

Qatari Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi has earlier stated that Qatar is withdrawing from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) as of January 2019.

Commenting on the decision, the minister noted that Qatar wants to focus on the production of natural and liquefied gas.

OPEC is an international intergovernmental association created by oil producing states to control crude production quotas. OPEC includes Algeria, Angola, Venezuela, Gabon, Iran, Iraq, Congo, Kuwait, Qatar, Libya, the UAE, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Equatorial Guinea and Ecuador. Members of the organization control about two thirds of world oil reserves and they account for up to 45 percent of all world production and half of exports.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @TalehMursagulovA British couple has come forward to claim the engagement ring that became a New York City legend after it fell through a sidewalk utility grate after a marriage proposal. Apparently the ring that John Drennan gave Daniella Anthony during a Central Park proposal was a little loose and fell off her finger when they were in Times Square.

The couple were in front of 2 Times Square when the ring fell off on Friday night, and they asked police officers for help.

WANTED for dropping his fiancees ring in @TimesSquareNYC!

She said Yes - but he was so excited that he dropped the ring in a grate. Our @NYPDSpecialops officers rescued it & would like to return it to the happy couple. Help us find them?  call 800-577-TIPS @NYPDTIPS @NYPDMTN pic.twitter.com/tPWg8OE0MQ  NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 1, 2018

Emergency Services Unit officers weren't able to retrieve the ring until Saturday morningbut at that point, the couple had gone.

The NY Times reports, "By that point, John Drennan and Daniella Anthony had already returned to the United Kingdom, where they purchased another ring shortly after landing, the groom-to-be said in an interview on Sunday."

The NYPD turned to social media, and, after a friend passed along the Tweet, Anthony replied:

Thank you so much @NYPDnews and everyone for sharing and reuniting me with my ring! Proposal was in Central Park and fell off over the drain! Thought was gone forever! Cant thank officers enough!  Daniella (@Daniell09311533) December 2, 2018

Drennan told BBC News that he "had carried the ring around in his pocket for two days before finding the right moment."

"I want to clarify that I did not propose over a grate in Times Squarethat's where we lost it," he said. He picked Central Park because "The time was right. There were autumn leaves everywhere and not many people."

"I tried to tell John it was too big, but he insisted I wear it," Anthony explained. She added, "We don't use Twitterwe had absolutely no idea this was going on. But we are so happy.... We are so thankful to everyoneespecially the New York Police Department and everyone who shared our story."

According to the Times, they are going to return the replacement ring and may "use the refund money to return to New York and buy a round for the officers who went 'above and beyond' to save it."Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Dec. 3

By Huseyn Hasanov  Trend:

A meeting with Regional Director of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) for Central Asia Neil McKain was held in Turkmenistan, the Turkmen Foreign Ministry said in a message.

According to the message, the sides reviewed the draft strategy for Turkmenistan for 2019-2024 proposed by EBRD.

Moreover, the representatives of the delegations exchanged views on the issues and regional cooperation between Turkmenistan and EBRD, the message said.

As of June, EBRD invested more than 250 million euros in various sectors of the Turkmen economy within 65 investment projects throughout the country and supported more than 200 enterprises within consulting projects.Details added (first version posted on 11:38)

Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Azad Hasanli - Trend:

Amendments to the tax legislation in Azerbaijan, which will come into force Jan. 1, 2019, consider the interests of the business sector and have been developed in accordance with the strategic road maps, Samira Musayeva, director general of the Tax Policy Department of Azerbaijans Ministry of Taxes, said at a briefing Dec. 3.

She noted that the amendments are aimed at the implementation of the tasks set before the ministry in the strategic road maps.

In the process of their development, meetings with entrepreneurs were held and international trends were studied, she said.

Musayeva noted that the amendments can be divided into five areas: ensuring transparency of taxation, expanding the taxable base, improving tax administration, supporting the development of entrepreneurship, increasing the economic efficiency of benefits and exemptions.

She noted that one of the significant changes was the exemption of employees with a monthly income of up to 8,000 manats from income tax.

Another important amendment is the return to taxpayers of 15 percent of the goods value when implementing non-cash payments and 10 percent on the basis of a cash register check for cash payments, she said.

The changes also affect the articles on tax administration, she added.

In order to improve it, for example, next generation cash registers will be installed, and taxpayers will be registered in the area where they carry out economic activities, Musayeva said.

The issue of expanding the rights of taxpayers and supporting entrepreneurship was also discussed.

Musayeva said that according to the changes, simplified tax throughout Azerbaijan will be 2 percent (presently, it amounts to 4 percent for Baku and 2 percent for districts).

At the same time, in case of administrative complaints, the tax authorities will no longer withdraw funds from the deposit, but freeze them, she noted.

Entrepreneurs who will operate in clusters of small and medium businesses will be exempted from income tax, land tax and profit tax for a period of seven years, startups in the small and medium businesses segment will also receive benefits in the form of exemption from profit tax and income tax for a period of three years, she added.Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Elnur Baghishov  Trend:

The investments made in Irans Hormozgan province to improve the industry has increased by 312 percent during eight months of this Iranian year (started on March 21, 2018), Shata news agency cited Khalil Qasimi, chairman of the Industry, Mine and Trade Organization of Hormozgan province, as saying.

He said that 14 percent of all investments in Iran accounted for Hormozgan province in the first eight months of this Iranian year and this province ranks second in the country in terms of investments.

Qasimi added that during eight months, licenses were issued for the implementation of 329 industrial projects.

Meanwhile, 11,700 jobs will be created within these projects and three percent of the jobs in the country will account for Hormozgan province, he said.

Qasimi added that the number of licenses issued for the creation of industrial projects in Hormozgan province increased by 56 percent, amount of investments - by 312 percent, the number of jobs - by 62 percent compared to the same period of last Iranian year.

This shows that the province has a big potential, he said.Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Huseyn Valiyev  Trend:

The 4th Azerbaijan-Belarus Forum on Information and Communication Technologies will be held in Baku, Azerbaijani Deputy Minister of Transport, Communications and High Technologies Elmir Velizade said.

Velizade made the remarks at the conference in Baku organized on the eve of the opening of Bakutel 2018, the 24th Azerbaijan International Telecommunications, Innovations and High Technologies Exhibition and Conference.

He said that the forum will be held within the Bakutel exhibition.

"The prospects for cooperation will be discussed within the ICT forum," Velizade added.

The list of events to be held at the exhibition includes a meeting of the heads of communication administrations of the regional communication community, a meeting of the ICT ministers of the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation, the Caspian innovation conference and the Azerbaijan-Israel forum.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @h_veliyevBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Huseyn Veliyev - Trend:

The Data Processing Center (DPC) of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and High Technologies of Azerbaijan has signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation with Samsung, the DPC told Trend.

The memorandum was signed by the head of Samsung's local office, Jae Hun Lee and the director of the DPC, Elnar Asadov.

The DPC noted that according to the agreement, the parties will cooperate in innovation and software development for Samsung mobile devices.

The memorandum also provides for the development and implementation of an electronic document management system in Samsung mobile devices, the development of mobile security platforms, a platform for using electronic signatures, etc.

"Presently, as part of cooperation, work has begun to develop a special platform for the Azdoc electronic document management system, developed by local specialists. This solution is currently used within the Ministry of Transport, Communications and High Technologies, and in the future it can be used in all government agencies. It is possible to certify electronic documents using Azdoc," the DPC added.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @h_veliyevBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

Turkey has reached record indicators in tourism, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said commenting on the 2018 results in the tourism sector, Turkish media reported on Dec. 3.

Erdogan stressed that about 40 million people visited Turkey in the first 10 months of 2018.

"Possibly, by the end of the year this figure will reach 50 million people," the president said.

As of January-October 2018, 35,571,419 tourists visited Turkey, which is 22.43 percent more than in January-October 2017.

In October 2018, 1,359,212 tourists visited Antalya, while Istanbul's visitors amounted to 1,230,070 tourists.

In January-October 2018, Antalya and Istanbul were visited by 12,008,939 and 11,340,081 tourists, respectively.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizogluA meeting with representatives of the World Bank mission is held in the Ministry of Economy of Kyrgyzstan on the completion of the implementation and results of the project Implementation of the National Strategy for the Development of Statistics of the Kyrgyz Republic, kabar.kg reports.

The purpose of the visit of the WB mission was to discuss the results of the project, as well as further cooperation of the Ministry for the modernization of the statistical system.

During the meeting, the sides exchanged views and touched upon a number of issues of interaction between the Ministry of Economy and the National Statistics Committee. The WB mission, noting the significant role of the ministry as a key user of statistical data, entrusted to conduct a review of key issues requiring special attention.

The Ministry proposed a number of proposals to improve the organization of statistics and the modernization of production and dissemination of statistical data in order to include in the partnership framework for the upcoming period.Director of the State Agency for Environment Protection and Forestry Abdykalyk Rustamov received Director of the UN World Food Program in Kyrgyzstan (UN WFP), Mr. Andrea Bagnoli, kabar.kg reports referring to the press service of the State Agency.

The UN WFP in Kyrgyzstan will support the fight against natural disasters and climate change in the country.

For the first time the Green Climate Fund (GCF) provides a grant of $ 10 million for climate change adaptation measures to improve food security and nutrition in Kyrgyzstan.

Abdykalyk Rustamov, head of the the State Agency for Environment Protection noted that achieving sustainable food security is one of the top priorities in implementing the Decree of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic on announcing 2018 the Year of Regional Development, as well as the government program Unity, Trust and Creation.

Thanks to the funds of the GCF, we will strengthen the support of residents of remote rural regions in adapting to climate change, grazing land management, proper land use and other areas, Rustamov said.

In turn, the country director of the UN WFP in Kyrgyzstan, Mr. Andrea Bagnoli, thanked Rustamov for the warm welcome and expressed hope for further fruitful cooperation and that the project will be successfully implemented in full.

Food systems of the Kyrgyz Republic are highly susceptible to climate change, which negatively affects the food security of poor families. The GCF grant will allow us to work with small farmers and vulnerable communities and improve farming practices in order to ensure the food security of every citizen in the country, added Bagnoli.

The funds will be directed to the implementation of joint projects of the UN WFP in Kyrgyzstan and the State Agency for Environmental Protection and Forestry during 2019-2022.

Project participants will be more than 100 thousand villagers in Batken, Osh and Naryn regions. WFP UN and the State Agency will implement projects in collaboration with the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the Ministry of Labor and Social Development, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Industry and Land Reclamation.

Grant funds will be used for the development of irrigation infrastructure, protection of farmland from floods and mudflows due to the construction of dams and strengthening of river banks.

In addition, the project will help farmers to explore and use innovative agricultural technologies for sustainable income in the face of climate change, including the processing of agricultural products.

The allocated funds will also be directed, in particular, for the technical equipment of the Kyrgyz Meteorological Service. It is planned to establish eight weather stations for collecting, analyzing climate data - changes in temperature, precipitation, etc., as well as disseminating information among farmers. This will allow farmers to more effectively plan agricultural work to increase productivity.

The WFP is the largest humanitarian organization in the world that fights hunger throughout the world, supplies food in emergency situations and works with local communities to increase their resilience and nutrition. Annually, WFP helps about 80 million people in 80 countries of the world.Nationals of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan now may get places in resorts, sanatoriums and summer caps of the two countries without any difficulty, news.tj reports.

An agreement on this subject was reportedly reached in the Uzbek capital of Tashkent at the end of last week during a working visit of a delegation of Tajikistans Federation of Independent Trade Unions to Uzbekistan

Tajik nationals wishing to get places in resorts and sanatoriums of Uzbekistan can apply to the representative offices of Tajikistans Federation of Independent Trade Unions, Ismoll Faizizoda, the deputy head of Tajikistans Federation of Independent Trade Unions, told Asia-Plus in an interview.

Besides, nationals of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan will also be able to get places for their children in summer camps of the two countries, Faizizoda said.

He further added that the Federations of Trade Unions of both countries had also agreed to expand cooperation between the trade unions of workers of health sector, educational sector and metallurgy.A 12-day action to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was launched in Tajikistan on December 3, news.tj reports.

The action includes a number of activities being carried out by the Civil Society Coalition against Torture and Impunity in Tajikistan (Coalition).

Beginning on December 3 during 12 days, the Coalition will cite one article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights a day on its social network pages a day and post two comments by a government official and a human rights activist.

The action is being held in three languages  Tajik, English and Russian.

The action is organized under financial support of the Branch of the Open Society Institute/Assistance Foundation in Tajikistan (OSI/AF-Tajikistan), UNOCHA office in Tajikistan, UNDP Office in Tajikistan, the European Union Delegation to Tajikistan and Sigrid Rausing Trust.

The Civil Society Coalition against Torture and Impunity in Tajikistan was established in September 2011 to consolidate the efforts of civil society to combat torture and impunity in Tajikistan. The Coalition facilitated opening of the public debate about torture in Tajikistan and influenced positive changes within legislation policy and practice with regards to prevention and investigation of this crime, as well as provision of reparation to the victims. .

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a milestone document in the history of human rights. Drafted by representatives with different legal and cultural backgrounds from all regions of the world, the Declaration was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on December 10, 1948 (General Assembly resolution 217 A) as a common standard of achievements for all peoples and all nations. It sets out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to be universally protected and it has been translated into over 500 languages.Opinion

The updates are driving us nuts

In the olden days if you wanted to upgrade your toaster or washing machine, or any appliance for that matter, the simplest and uncomplicated solution was to go out and buy a new model that came with the improvements you were looking for. Your toaster

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Dec. 3

By Huseyn Hasanov Trend:

The Turkmen parliament has ratified the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea, the Turkmen government said in a message on Dec. 3.

In addition, draft resolutions "On Ratification of the Agreement on the Prevention of Incidents in the Caspian Sea", "On Ratification of the Agreement between the Governments of the Caspian States on Trade and Economic Cooperation" and "On Ratification of the Agreement between the Governments of the Caspian States on Cooperation in the Field of Transport" were adopted.

On Aug. 12, the heads of five Caspian states signed the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea at the 5th Summit of the Heads of Caspian States in Aktau. The Convention is a historic document for the region, the work on which has been carried out for two decades since 1996.

According to the document, it is possible to lay submarine cables and pipelines along the bottom of the Caspian Sea "provided that their designs comply with environmental requirements and standards enshrined in international treaties to which they are parties".

The signing of the Caspian Convention is a historic step towards global energy security. The relevant negotiations have been conducted since 2011 between the interested parties-the EU, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. In particular, the project of laying the Trans-Caspian gas pipeline to the shores of Azerbaijan, from where the Turkmen raw material can be delivered to Turkey and further to Europe, is being promoted.

The Trans-Caspian project can be implemented as part of the EU-lobbied Southern Gas Corridor project. The Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP project in which Turkey and Azerbaijan are involved) or the AGRI (Azerbaijan-Georgia-Romania Interconnector) projects may be useful in this direction.

At the same time, Turkmenistan declared its readiness to supply Europe with up to 40 billion cubic meters of gas annually, of which 10 billion can be provided by the company Petronas (Malaysia), operating in the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea. The rest of the volume can be provided through the East-West gas pipeline, which begins on the largest Turkmen field Galkynysh and ends in the shores of the Caspian Sea.Tehran, Iran, Dec. 3

Trend:

Austrian ambassador to Tehran Stefan Schulz has said the European Union will support and follow Irans interests according to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

We are trying to develop cooperation between Iran and the European Union, Schulz said during his trip to the Iranian city of Hamadan, IRNA reported.

In addition to finding potential partners, we will follow the political goals as well, Schulz, who calls himself an EU representative in Iran, stated.

The ambassador had meetings during his two-day trip to Hamadan to discuss cooperation in tourism, culture and economy.

The province of Hamadan is on the route of the Silk Road; we will introduce this province to Austrian and European investors, he said.

Austria tends to establish small and medium-sized companies in green tourism, develop cultural cooperation and private sector, Schulz added. Austria lacks oil and mineral resources, and its only capital is the human resources that create 90 percent of its revenues. We stand as a partner beside Iran and are trying to develop private sector in this country.Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Elnur Baghishov  Trend:

The Iranian Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade has instructed to issue a permit for the registration of rice, given that the ban period of rice import was over, IRNA cited the Iran Customs Administration.

Rice harvesting started in Iran in June of this Iranian year.

The Iran Trade Promotion Organization has announced the deadline for the ban period of rice import on September 22.

About 3.2 million tons of rice are annually consumed in Iran. Meanwhile, 1.7-2 million tons of rice are produced in the country. Rice import reaches 1.2-1.5 million tons for the year. India mainly provides Iran with rice, as do Pakistan, Thailand and Uruguay.

According to the Iran Customs Administrations statistics, 958,241 tons of rice worth $985,388, 853 were imported to Iran in the first seven months of this Iranian year (started on March 21, 2018).Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Elnur Baghishov - Trend:

Irans Minister of Communications and Information Technology Mohammad Javad Azari Jahrami will visit Azerbaijan Dec. 3 to attend the 24th Azerbaijan International Telecommunications, Innovations and High Technologies Exhibition and Conference Bakutel 2018, Iranian Embassy in Azerbaijan told Trend.

The Iranian minister is expected to visit the exhibition and make speech at the Caspian Innovation Conference.

He is also expected to participate in a four-party meeting of communication ministers of Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia and Iran.

Jahrami will also hold bilateral meetings with these ministers to discuss relations with these countries and exchange views on the development of bilateral cooperation.

Fourteen Iranian companies will participate in the 24th Azerbaijan International Telecommunications, Innovations and High Technologies Exhibition and Conference.Iran will not talk with any party on defense or domestic issues, the country's Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Monday, IRNA reports.

'Our policy is clear as the issues have to do with our domestic policies, and the outsiders are not allowed to enter the sphere,' Bahram Qasemi said at his weekly press conference.

'Iran has repeatedly rejected West's suggestions about negotiation on missile and defensive issues, describing them as 'non-negotiable' affairs,' added Qasemi.

Echoing the recent statement by the Iranian ministry on the coming intra-Yemeni talks in Sweden, he also said that Tehran would welcome any effort to relieve suffering of the Yemeni people.

Yemeni warring parties have said they were ready to go to the negotiating table which was proposed by the United Nations. The talks are expected to be held in Sweden next week.

'We still believe that the four-article plan proposed by Iran's foreign minister will be a clear solution,' Qasemi said.

Iran supports any solution for ending the century big humanitarian plight that can turn into a black mark remembered in the history, Qasemi said.A Georgian delegation has participated in a forum of trade-economic relations in China, held to boost cooperation between the southeast Chinese province of Jiangxi and Georgia, Agenda.ge reports.

The Director of Georgias Partnership Fund Davit Saganelidze headed the Georgian delegation.

In addition to 15 Georgian companies, official delegations from more than 30 countries attended the forum of the China Chamber of International Commerce, where about 500 multinational companies and 3,000 delegates participated.

At the forum the Georgian pavilion showcased Georgian tea, hazelnuts, mineral water, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Within the forum a Green Finance Summit was also held where Saganelidze delivered his speech and talked about Georgias investment environment and highlighted the countrys competitive advantages.A source from Syrian military reported that the US-led coalition attacked Syrian army positions in country's east, Syrian media reported.

A Syrian military source reported that the US-led coalition fired several missiles at Syrian positions and caused limited materiel damage, Syrian SANA news agency reported. The missiles hit the positions south of Al-Sukhnah in eastern Syria, the source told the agency.

"Forces of the US-led coalition fired several missiles toward the positions of our units in the area of Al-Ghurab mount, to the south of the city of Al-Sukhnah at around 8:00 p.m. [18:00 GMT]," the source told the Al-Ikhbariya television channel.

Previous month, Syrian state television reported that over 30 civilians had been killed as a result of a US-led coalition airstrike on a village in the Deir ez-Zor province, which came just two days after Syrian media accused the US-led coalition of killing at least 6 civilians in the town of Hajin in the same area.

Syrian government has repeatedly accused the US-led coalition of causing civilian casualties while conducting aerial operations in Syria.

The US-led coalition of more than 70 countries is conducting counter-terror military operations in Syria and Iraq. The coalition's operations in Iraq are conducted in cooperation with the Iraqi government, but those in Syria are neither authorized by the government of President Bashar Assad nor the UN Security Council.At least 57 people, including 48 police officers, were injured during the riots caused by the "yellow vests" protests in the city of Toulouse in southwestern France, the prefecture said on Sunday according to Sputnik.

"This Saturday, December 1, serious incidents happened in the center of Toulouse as part of the unsanctioned rallies. The security forces were attacked by the demonstrators. The last updated report indicates that 57 people were injured, including 48 police officers," the Haute-Garonne prefecture said in a statement.

Five out of 48 injured police officers were hospitalized, according to the statement.

The "yellow vests" protests, named after the obligatory attribute of French drivers, a yellow light-reflective vest, have been held in France since November 17. The demonstrators protest against the fuel prices increase.

In late 2017, the French government approved the decision to raise direct tax on diesel fuel, which is the most popular type of fuel in the country. The diesel prices in France have risen by around 23 percent since the beginning of the year, while the gasoline prices have gone up by 15 percent. Prices are set to increase further in January.

French President Emmanuel Macron, on his part, stressed, commenting on the protests, that the country's authorities would not revise their decision on fuel prices hike. He strongly condemned the violence and stressed that those responsible for it would be revealed and brought to justice.French President Emmanuel Macron will urge a visiting group of top Silicon Valley venture capitalists this week to invest in the nations start-ups while calling on them not to steal the best creations, Reuters reports..

The discreet event, not mentioned in Macrons official schedule, comes at a tough time for the French leader after rioters looted and ransacked boutiques and businesses in central Paris, chaotic images beamed around the world.

Executives from some of the biggest names in U.S. tech funding, including Andreessen Horowitz, Sequoia Capital and General Atlantic, are among the 40 expected in Paris on Wednesday and Thursday for a tour of the French startup scene.

The two-day roadshow includes presentations from what sources called tech superstars already investing in France as well as visits to hubs such as the Station F tech incubator in eastern Paris.

But instead of simply urging them to invest in France, Macron, who is scheduled to host the investors at the Elysee palace on Thursday evening, will also tell the U.S. funds to help French businesses to flourish rather than pushing the best French entrepreneurs to move to the United States.

Today, many French companies raise money in the U.S., and the usual reflex of U.S venture capitalists is to tell them: come to the United States then, a source at Macrons office told Reuters.

We will tell them: its an ecosystem, your best interest is to do like in Britain and Israel: invest here and dont move everything (to the U.S.), the source said.

The event was scheduled before the nationwide protests that turned the French capital into a battle zone and the format of Macrons appearance has yet to be finalised, sources said.

With his authority challenged by the yellow vest protesters, who sprawled anti-capitalist slogans on banks and luxury boutiques on Saturday, Macron has his work cut out to counter the damage done to Frances image.A cache of rare gold coins and a 900-year-old gold earring were discovered at the port of Caesarea in Israel. The lucky find during an excavation is said to be evidence of the Crusaders conquest of the port city, The Jerusalem Post reports.

A small bronze pot was found a few days ago at the Caesarea National Park, and inside it were 24 gold coins and a gold earring, according to the Antiquities Authority. The cache was found hidden between two stones in the side of a wall, located in a house in a neighborhood that dated from the Abbasid and Fatimid periods (909-1171 CE).

The coins are dated to the end of the 11th century, which would link the cache to the Crusader conquest of the city in the year 1101, one of the more critical events in the citys medieval history.

According to the Antiquities Authority, most inhabitants of the city were massacred by Baldwin Is army between 1100 to 1118 CE. Baldwin I served as the king of the Crusader kingdom of Jerusalem. The authority said it can be presumed that the treasures owner and his family likely died in the massacre or were sold into slavery. They would have been unable to return to the site of the cache and retrieve their hidden gold.

The cache is of a unique combination of coins not yet seen in Israel consisting of two types of coins: 18 Fatimid dinars, well known from previous excavations in Caesarea, where it was the standard local currency of the time, said Dr. Robert Kool, coin expert at the authority. And a small and extremely rare group of six Byzantine imperial gold coins. Five of the coins are concave and belong to the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Michael VII Doukas (1071-1079 CE).

Kool said that the coins did not circulate locally and may hint at trade relations between Caesarea and Constantinople during the time. One coin would be equal to a farmers annual salary, so whoever owned the cache was likely wealthy or involved in trade, Kool said.

The discovery was found in a location where two other treasures of the same period have been found. A golden pot that held silver jewelry was found there in the 1960s, and a collection of bronze vessels was found in the 1990s. Both finds are displayed at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem.

The multi-year Caesarea project is sponsored by the Edmond de Rothschild Foundation to the tune of NIS 150 million, in cooperation with the Caesarea Development Corp., the Antiquities Authority and the Israel Nature and Parks Authority.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels later on Monday, the prime minister's office said in a statement, The Jerusalem Post reports.

It said the meeting was arranged last week and that "developments in the region" would be discussed, although it did not provide details. Pompeo is an outspoken critic of Iran's nuclear program and he condemned on Saturday the latest missile test by the Islamic republic.

Netanyahu often uses meetings with international officials to push his agenda of halting Iran's nuclear ambitions. Israel also sees Tehran's moves to set up bases in neighboring Syria as a regional threat.

Netanyahu will be accompanied by the head of the Mossad spy agency, the Israeli national security adviser and his military attache, the statement said.

On Saturday, Pompeo said Iran launched a medium-range ballistic missile capable of carrying multiple warheads.

Pompeo said that the test launch violates UN Security Council resolution 2231, which bans Iran from undertaking any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to carry nuclear weapons.

As we have been warning for some time, Irans missile testing and missile proliferation is growing. We are accumulating risk of escalation in the region if we fail to restore deterrence, Pompeo said. We condemn these activities, and call upon Iran to cease immediately all activities related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons.Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov and his Japanese counterpart Takeo Mori have become special envoys of the two countries leaders at the negotiations on a peace treaty, TASS reports referring to the press service of the Japanese Foreign Ministry.

"The Japanese and Russian leaders agreed at the talks in Buenos Aires to further accelerate the negotiations on a peace treaty, with the two countries top diplomats Taro Kono and Sergey Lavrov tasked with supervising work on it," the press service said. "Deputy Foreign Ministers Takeo Mori and Igor Morgulov will conduct these negotiations. Igor Morgulov will be the Russian presidents special representative, and Takeo Mori - the Japanese prime ministers special representative."

"It was also decided to agree on the meeting between the two countries foreign ministers in the run-up to Prime Minister Abes visit to Russia at the beginning of next year," the spokesman said. "During the talks in Buenos Aires, Prime Minister Abe also spoke out in favor of developing cooperation aimed at the implementation of the joint economic activities in the four Northern Islands (the southern islands of the Kuril archipelago - TASS) and humanitarian measures for the benefit of former residents of these islands, including air travel to visit their ancestors graves."

On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said following talks on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Buenos Aires that an agreement had been reached with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on a new mechanism for resolving the peace treaty issue. According to the Russian president, the two countries leaders will appoint special envoys, while the top diplomats will oversee that work.

At the meeting in Singapore on November 14, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe agreed to intensify Russian-Japanese talks on concluding a peace treaty based on the Joint Declaration signed on October 19, 1956, on ceasing the state of war. The two countries resumed diplomatic and consular relations, but no peace treaty has been signed so far.

Under Article 9 of the declaration, the Soviet Union agreed to hand over Shikotan and Habomai as a gesture of good will after the peace treaty is ultimately signed. The declaration was ratified by the two countries parliaments in December 1956.

However, in response to Japans signing a security treaty with the United States in 1960, the Soviet Union revoked its liabilities concerning the transfer of the islands. The Soviet government said back then that the islands would be handed over to Japan only when all foreign forces were withdrawn from its territory.Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud shared a hearty handshake at the G20 summit in Argentina because they have good personal relations, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, TASS reports.

"These are good personal relations," Peskov said commenting on the exuberant handshake before the summits plenary session, which came under the spotlight. Putin and Prince Salman shook hands as good friends, in a much more informal way than it usually happens at world leaders meetings.

According to the Kremlin, these good relations are a ground for "rather effective and mutually beneficial cooperation."

Putin earlier greeted other leaders in the same way, Peskov said, declining to give further details.

Moscow highlights that Saudi Arabia is ready to take part in an investigation into the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who went missing after visiting the consulate general of Saudi Arabia in Istanbul on October 2. Saudi Arabia later announced that the journalist had been killed in a fight in the diplomatic mission. The international community has strongly condemned the murder and urged Riyadh to carry out a transparent investigation.

"We seek to continue fostering bilateral Russian-Saudi relations," Peskov noted. "President Putin and the Crown Prince held a rather fruitful and substantive discussion on the sidelines of the summit." He recalled that at the talks the sides discussed cooperation in the framework of OPEC plus.The Russian and Vietnamese military departments will intensify their cooperation, Defense Minister Army General Sergei Shoigu said at a meeting with Vietnamese Deputy Defense Minister Senior Lieutenant General, Nguyen Chi Vinh, which took place in Moscow on Monday, TASS reports.

"We are ready to continue to closely coordinate joint actions for the development of Russian-Vietnamese relations, especially given that 2019 will be the Russian-Vietnamese cross year. I am confident that our meeting will contribute to the further strengthening of amicable ties between the defense ministries of both countries in the spirit of strategic partnership," Shoigu stressed.

He also noted that he was glad to meet with his Vietnamese counterpart. "Vietnam is our long-standing partner, with whom we have special, trustworthy relations. We would like to emphasize an upward dynamic of bilateral political dialogue at the highest level," he added.

The Russian defense ministry emphasized that it attaches the utmost importance to the implementation of the agreements reached by Russian President Vladimir Putin and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Nguyen Phu Trong (Vietnamese President from October 23, 2018), in Sochi in September, as well as those reached during Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedevs visit to Hanoi in November.

"Recently, we have stepped up an exchange of delegations between our ministries," Shoigu stated, pointing out that the Russian defense ministry considers regular strategic dialogue on defense issues at the level of deputy heads of the military departments to be important.Baku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

Turkey is planning to create a naval base in Northern Cyprus, Turkish media reported Dec. 3.

The reports note that the issue was discussed against the backdrop of tensions between Greece and Turkey in the Mediterranean.

The naval base is expected to be established in early 2019, the reports said.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has earlier said that Turkey can establish a naval base in Northern Cyprus, if necessary.

He noted that the presence of the Turkish armed forces in the territory is very important.

"Turkey does not intend to reduce its military contingent in Northern Cyprus," Erdogan said.

He noted that the plan of the West to solve the problem of Cyprus has not justified itself.

"The EU has also attempted to apply double standards in relation to the Turkish Cyprus," he said.

Earlier, foreign media also reported that Turkey intends to establish a military base in Northern Cyprus.

Turkey has military bases in Somalia and Qatar currently.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizogluBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

Turkey and NATO will discuss regional issues, Turkish ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a message on Dec. 3.

The message noted that in order to discuss regional issues, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu will visit Brussels on December 4-5, 2018.

"Chavusoglu will also take part in the meeting of the foreign ministers of the NATO countries," the message said.

The message noted that the meeting will discuss the decisions taken during the previous NATO foreign ministers' meeting, which took place on July 11-12, 2018.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizogluBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

As part of the operations conducted by the Turkish Air Force against the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) terrorists in northern Iraq, five PKK militants were killed, the Turkish General Staff said in a message on Dec. 3.

The operations were carried out in Hakurk and Metina districts, the message reads.

Meanwhile, Turkish Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu stated that from early 2018, 87,838 operations have been carried out against the PKK terrorist organization in Turkey.

"In 2017, 380 PKK terrorists and in 2018, 343 terrorists surrendered to Turkish law enforcement agencies," Soylu said.

The conflict between Turkey and the PKK, which demands the creation of an independent Kurdish state, has lasted more than 25 years, claiming more than 40,000 lives. PKK is recognized as a terrorist organization by the UN and the EU.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizogluBaku, Azerbaijan, Dec. 3

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

The process of dismantling and removal of equipment from Istanbul's Ataturk Airport to the new airport in Istanbul will begin on December 30, 2018, Minister of Transport and Infrastructure of Turkey Mehmet Cahit Turhan said, Turkish media reported on Dec. 3.

The minister noted that the removal of equipment from Ataturk Airport will end on December 31, 2018.

The minister also noted that the transportation of equipment from Ataturk Airport to Istanbul's new airport will not affect the operation of the new airport.

The Ataturk Airport in Istanbul will end operating flights at 00:00 (GMT +3) on Dec. 31, the General Directorate of State Airports of Turkey (DHMI) had earlier said in a statement.

Beginning from 00:00 (GMT +3) on Dec. 31, all passenger and cargo flights will be operated from the third airport of Istanbul, DHMI added.

The third airport was built near the Lake Terkos in northern Istanbul.

The first airport in Turkey was built in 1912 and was used for military purposes.

In 1953, Istanbul airport was opened for international flights for the first time, and in 1985 it was renamed in honor of the founder of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizogluKYODO NEWS - Dec 3, 2018 - 16:13 | Urgent, All, Japan

Forty-six Chinese construction workers in Japan's northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido have gone missing after 11 compatriots were arrested over their eligibility to stay in the country, sources related to their work said Monday.

The 11 Chinese workers, aged between 27 and 62, were arrested in the early hours of Nov. 26 near JR Kikonai Station on suspicion of violating the immigration control law. Two were allegedly not carrying passports and nine are believed to have overstayed their visas.

(File photo)

It was not immediately clear under which visas they entered Japan.

Of the 11, 10 men were working at the same construction site in the town of Shiriuchi, southern Hokkaido, as the 46 workers who have disappeared.

According to the sources, the arrested Chinese workers and others were dispatched to Hokkaido from a company in Chiba Prefecture, east of Tokyo, around September to build a mega solar power plant.

A total of 58 people were living in the town of Kikonai, some 17 kilometers away from the construction site. One of them died due to illness on Nov. 25, while 11 were arrested.

After their arrest, a related official visited where the workers had been living and discovered the remaining 46 were gone, according to the sources.

The Hokkaido prefectural police are investigating whether the employers were aware that the workers were overstaying their visas.City-Cost - Dec 3, 2018 - 15:43 | Feature

The Japanese Green Tea Award held its annual Tokyo Tea Party over the weekend in the Japan capitals Shibuya Ward, an event that goes against the grain to champion the variety, taste, and appeal of Japanese green tea.

The 2018 Nihoncha Award (AWARD) saw nearly 400 teas submitted by producers across Japan whittled down to a shortlist of 19 by industry experts.

During the Tokyo Tea Party, held at an event space in retail complex Shibuya Hikarie across three days from November 30 to December 2, the shortlisted teas were served to consumers and tea enthusiasts who voted for their favorite.

Top honors this year went to Asatsuyu, a tamaryokucha tea from grower Chayu, based in Nagasaki Prefecture, southwestern Japan, which took out the Nihoncha Grand Prize, also known as the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award.

Over 1,000 tea enthusiasts placed their votes during the competition which, including the weekends event in Shibuya, incorporated votes from eight tasting events held across Japan as well as one held in Paris, France in October.

2018 was the fifth outing for an award and event through which organizers aim to showcase the variety of tea produced across Japan, and more importantly, its taste.

The most basic factor is that green tea is something to drink, not just something to look at. But tea today has become something to look at, Hideki Kuwabara, chairperson of the awards executive committee, told City-Cost during the event in Shibuya.

When it comes to drinking tea, taking in the fragrance and discovering the taste, this is the most important thing, but in many reviews the best ratings are afforded as a result of looking at the leaves and picking out those with the most beautiful shape, or that produce the best color, he continued.

So, the excellent teas are decided upon before drinking, and those teas that are actually delicious are being neglected.

According to Kuwabara, this is a habit that extends back the Meiji era when sales of Japanese green tea to markets in America saw form and color take priority. Even after demand for Japanese green tea in the States dropped and industry focus turned to the domestic market, its a habit that continues to this day.

Japanese tea is capable of greater variety than this, but even though it can deliver variety in fragrance, and products that can be completely different depending on production area, everything has become the same. Japanese tea has been losing its appeal.

To address this issue then, the Nihoncha Award and events like the Tokyo Tea Party bring this variety in Japanese tea directly to the consumer, not only through the tasting and voting process, but also through sampling and sales of previous award-winning teas at the event venue where enthusiasts and members of the public have the chance to rub shoulders with experts.

If we only offer, say five or 10 teas to taste, it would be a much easier process, but this kind of sample is too small for the consumer, explains Kuwabara of the events structure that sees sessions of tasters, chosen by application, try each of the shortlisted teas (19 for this year's award) one after the other, marked by a number only.

(Tea is readied to be served at the Tokyo Tea Party, held in Shibuya over the weekend)

Japanese people are the type that typically, if one person goes in a particular direction, the others will follow. To avoid this situation we have to offer a wider range (of teas), to show that tea can take a variety of forms, that production areas can produce a variety of teas.

The award carries plenty of significance for the producers themselves, often resulting in a significant increase in both profile and sales, domestic and international, for the winners who, in some cases, have sold out of their product as a result of the increased recognition.

Recognition resulting from the Nihoncha Award perhaps carries greater weight for the industry in Japan as whole, which, according to Kuwabara, has seen a decline in tea production over the last 40 years or so, falling from around 115,000 tons to 80,000 tons, as of 2017. Set against a backdrop of global tea production that, as a whole, has increased over the same time period, Kuwabara reflects that, perhaps Japan has been traveling, a little bit, in the wrong direction.

While Kuwabara recognizes that the achievements of the Nihoncha Award may be small when viewed against the industry at large, he hopes that, through the award, Japanese tea can be set back onto a path towards expansion, something which starts with connecting the consumer to the teas they like.

This is the fifth year of the award and I think that people have come to know and trust that the teas we introduce will be delicious.

For more content like this visit www.city-cost.comKYODO NEWS - Dec 3, 2018 - 22:06 | All, Japan

Japan will soon be out of pagers after its only provider said Monday it will terminate its service in September next year, with the device, first introduced in the country half a century ago, made redundant by mobile phones.

Around 1,500 customers have remained subscribers to Tokyo Telemessage Inc., including those working at hospitals who favor the device because it emits no electromagnetic waves. The company only operates in the capital and surrounding prefectures.

(A pager featuring Hello Kitty that Tokyo Telemessage offered in 1997)

Tokyo Telemessage is planning to start a new radio service using frequencies allocated for pagers. President Hidetoshi Seino said it will provide regional governments with information to help them manage natural-disaster relief efficiently.

Beeper services in Japan begun in 1968 with Telephone Public Corp., predecessor of Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp. They aroused strong demand from hospitals, business and government offices, with the number of subscribers topping 10 million in 1996.

The popularity of pagers grew in the 1990s with female high school students becoming frequent users, combining numbers to exchange messages. The wireless devices were also featured in TV series and songs at the time, becoming a symbol of the age.

NTT Docomo Inc., mobile unit of NTT, terminated its pager service in 2007, leaving only regional service operators such as Tokyo Telemessage in the business.

[Tokyo Telemessage Inc.]Anupama's protest will begin on December 10, World Human Rights Day, and will continue till the people responsible for separating her from her child are brought to book.Fridays-Sundays, 5-9 p.m., Dec. 20-23, 5-9 p.m. and Dec. 26-30, 5-9 p.m. Continues through Dec. 19

Henson Robinson Zoo 1100 E. Lake Shore Dr., Springfield Lake Springfield Area

Adults $7, kids 3-12 $5, ages 2 and under are free

Holiday Happenings

Take a stroll through the zoo and enjoy thousands of lights and displays. Enjoy the hot cocoa bar or roast a marshmallow over the fire pit for a delicious s'more. Grab the family and gather at one of the photo opportunities for your holiday pics! See the Zoo animals as they enjoy the lights too; red wolves, arctic fox, eagles, barnyard, cougars, birds of prey and many others that are all out on the grounds or viewable still this time of year! There will be bonus features scheduled for certain dates, so keep an eye on our schedule for all. 217-585-1821Description

Sunday  Thursday, 11:00am  7:00pm  Friday  Saturday, 11:00am  8:00pm

Woman-owned MarieBelle New York is a world-renowned luxurious global bean-to-bar chocolate company. The fine art edibles are produced in the Brooklyn factory with retail locations throughout New York City, Japan and Dubai. MarieBelles flagship store in New Yorks famous Soho District offers chocolate lovers a sumptuous shopping experience. MarieBelle has a rustic-style Cacao Market in trendy Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and a new retail shoppe located in Midtown Manhattans stunning Japanese Kitano Hotel. Each location pairs perfectly with the lavish and decadent chocolate designs. For almost two decades, MarieBelle New York has been tantalizing both the eyes and the palate with sophisticated chocolate expressions.

For more information, visit www.mariebelle.comHealthcare labs are increasingly using AI tools to develop treatments and in medical research. Photo: Cole Burston/Bloomberg via Getty Images

A healthcare startup that uses data from Apple Watches and Fitbits to improve the outcomes of chronically ill patients has raised $6.75m (5.26m), and is set to announce major new deals with US healthcare providers.

Myia, the San Francisco-based health monitoring firm that has partnered with the American College of Cardiology, said on Friday that the seed funding would help it expand its preventative healthcare platform.

The firm will soon announce two partnerships with large-scale US healthcare providers, its CEO, Simon MacGibbon, told Yahoo Finance.

The funding round was led by BootstrapLabs and Zetta Venture Partners, two Silicon Valley-based artificial intelligence funds.

Myia uses the streams of personal and health data from wearable devices like Apple Watch and Fitbit to monitor chronically ill patients and, by applying machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques, tries to predict relapses before they happen.

We think that remote patient monitoring is going to be a big deal, MacGibbon said in an interview, noting that thus far the data collected by wearables has provided little value for patients and healthcare providers. How on earth can healthcare providers be successful if they dont know whats happening to their patients 99.9% of the time?

Myia aims to reduce the number of emergency hospital visits for patients with chronic and post-operative conditions, and said its platform sets a new bar on quality of life for those who are ageing or homebound.

The company declined to disclose its valuation, but co-founder Alex Gold told Yahoo Finance that it was commensurate with that of other seed funding rounds within the AI space.

The American College of Cardiology and the Boston Consulting Group also participated in the funding round. It is quite a big advantage to have the American College of Cardiology behind us  not just as a financial backer, but as an adviser and for the credibility that they lend, MacGibbon said.

Story continues

Through our collaboration with Myia, we are developing tools for clinical teams to monitor and improve their patients health status, said cardiologist Dr John Rumsfeld, the chief innovation officer of the American College of Cardiology, in a statement.

Some 6.5 million Americans suffer from advanced cardiovascular disease, making it one of the largest drivers of hospital admissions in the US. Many of these visits are preventable by a proactive lifestyle and medication adjustments, Myia noted in a statement, and just 1% of heart failure patients today are on the correct dose of medication  something the firm hopes its technology will help change.

The firms funding announcement comes in the same week that Amazon announced it is working with groups within the healthcare industry to make use of unstructured medical data.

Myia employs 12 people in the US, and does not plan on increasing its headcount dramatically until its next funding round, MacGibbon said.

Though Myias brain trust, which includes its chief technology officer Bryan Smith and chief medical officer Dr Farzad Azimpour, is based in the US, the company also uses an off-shore engineering team from Eastern Europe.

The funding gives us two years of runway, MacGibbon said. It will also allow Myia to acquire enough healthcare data to build out its platform. Acquiring the data in healthcare and capturing the requisite endpoints to train algorithms is not straightforward or cheap, he said.

Myia is truly exciting, said Nicolai Wadstrom, the CEO of BootstrapLabs. Myia has the potential to both mitigate some of the most critical illnesses we are facing in our society as well as empower patients to take charge of their own health data.israel ehud barak bitcoin crypto

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak praised blockchain as an important technology but thinks bitcoin is a Ponzi scheme that should be avoided.

Barak  who was prime minister from 1999 to 2001  made the remarks at the Globes Most Promising Startups event in Tel Aviv, Israel.

Barak recently invested in, and became chairman of, the medical cannabis company InterCure Ltd. He was responding to a question about whether medical marijuana  like bitcoin  is a bubble. He said no.

Blockchain, Not Bitcoin

Blockchain itself is a mathematical technological concept and an interesting and important methodology, the tech investor said. Cryptocurrencies  bitcoin and all the others  thats a Ponzi scheme.

Barak said he doesnt believe that its possible to make a currency in this way in the current generation. Accordingly, he will not invest in crypto. I wouldnt invest in anything thats related to cryptocurrencies, he said.

However, like many crypto skeptics, Barak thinks blockchain is a potentially game-changing innovation that could disrupt many different sectors, including business, healthcare, banking, and supply-chain management.

Whoever has the patience and understands blockchain deeply can find a lot of uses for it, from keeping sensitive medical information through to contracts, he noted.

Wall Street Veteran is Shorting Bitcoin

Ehud Baraks anti-crypto stance mirrors that of Wall Street financial analyst Gary Shilling, who also dismissed bitcoin as a grand Ponzi scheme, as CCN reported.

Story continues

And Shilling is putting his money where his mouth is: His eponymous New Jersey investment firm, A. Gary Shilling & Co., is shorting bitcoin.

Shilling said bitcoin is a scam that fails as a currency because it lacks three fundamental requirements of a legitimate currency:

Its not a store of value. Its not a medium of exchange. Its not universally accepted.

A currency has to have a store of value, he reasoned. With the volatility in bitcoin prices, I dont think it has a store of value.

Baraks Foe Benjamin Netanyahu Is a Crypto Fan

Meanwhile, Ehud Baraks political nemesis, current Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is a fan of cryptocurrencies who thinks bitcoin and blockchain could render banks obsolete.

In December 2017, Netanyahu  who has been prime minister since 2009  said he believes traditional banks will eventually disappear.

Is the fate of banks that they will eventually disappear? Yes. The answer is Yes, Netanyahu said in Hebrew. Does it need to happen tomorrow, and do we need to do it through bitcoin? Thats a question mark.

Netanyahu, an MIT graduate who was previously a consultant with the Boston Consulting Group, said blockchain could easily become a decentralized alternative to the current centralized banking system.

The truth behind what I just said is whats propelling bitcoin upwards, Netanyahu said in December 2017, when the bitcoin price approached a record $20,000.

Netanyahu said blockchain can perform all the functions of a bank without the need for an inefficient central institution that charges transaction fees.

Featured Image from Shutterstock



The post Bitcoin is a Ponzi Scheme, Says Former Israel Prime Minister Ehud Barak appeared first on CCN.

BHC tag_1K

Plan recommends a balanced mix of generation resources to meet future customer needs

CHEYENNE, Wyo. - Dec. 3, 2018 - Black Hills Corp. (BKH) today announced that its Wyoming electric utility subsidiary, Cheyenne Light, Fuel and Power Co., doing business as Black Hills Energy, submitted its 2018 Integrated Resource Plan to the Wyoming Public Service Commission. The plan recommends that Cheyenne Light`s long-term electric capacity and energy needs be met utilizing a balanced mix of generation resources, including coal, natural gas and renewable resources, including wind and solar. The plan also recommends that Cheyenne Light`s near term electric energy and capacity needs be met through the purchase of the Wygen I power plant, located near Gillette, Wyoming, as the least cost resource.

"The IRP is a comprehensive road map outlining our planning and preparation to meet our electric utility customers` long-term energy needs over the next 20 to 30 years," said Linn Evans, president and chief operating officer of Black Hills. "The IRP incorporates the forecasting of customer demand for energy and economic modeling of a variety of generation resource options to ensure our ability to continue to serve our customers with safe, reliable and cost-effective energy."

The IRP process and evaluation for Cheyenne Light identified a near-term baseload generation capacity shortfall of 60 megawatts stemming from the 2022 expiration of a power purchase agreement for energy produced at the Wygen I power plant, which is owned by Black Hills Wyoming, an affiliate company.

"This shortfall represents approximately 25 percent of the current capacity and energy needs of our Wyoming customers. Our plan recommends that Cheyenne Light exercise its long-standing option to permanently acquire Wygen I as the preferred, least-cost alternative to replace the energy currently made available to Cheyenne Light through the power purchase agreement," said Evans. "The Wygen I power plant has been an extremely reliable and low-cost source of electric capacity and energy for Cheyenne Light since the plant was placed in service in February 2003, which was prior to the acquisition of Cheyenne Light by Black Hills Corp. in January 2005."

Story continues

"Wygen I is the best long-term choice to cost-effectively meet our customers` current and future baseload capacity and energy needs," continued Evans. "As part of our fleet of owned generating facilities, Wygen I would continue to provide our customers with safe and reliable energy, ensure the long-term price-stability afforded by a low-cost, local Wyoming energy resource, and continue to provide stable, long-term mining and plant operations jobs within Wyoming," added Evans.

Review of Cheyenne Light`s 2018 IRP is subject to an open public process governed by the WPSC. In addition, any future purchase of Wygen I by Cheyenne Light would require approval of a certificate of public convenience and necessity by the WPSC and approval by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. This process is expected to be completed by year-end 2019.

###

Black Hills Corporation

Black Hills Corp. (BKH) is a customer focused, growth-oriented utility company with a tradition of improving life with energy and a vision to be the energy partner of choice. Based in Rapid City, South Dakota, the company serves 1.25 million natural gas and electric utility customers in eight states: Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming. More information is available at www.blackhillscorp.com, www.blackhillscorp.com/corporateresponsibility and www.blackhillsenergy.com.

Investor Relations

Jerome E. Nichols

605-721-1171

jerome.nichols@blackhillscorp.com

24-Hour Media Relations Line

888-242-3969

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Statement

This news release includes "forward-looking statements" as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC. We make these forward-looking statements in reliance on the safe harbor protections provided under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this news release that address activities, events or developments that we expect, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward looking statements. This includes Cheyenne Light`s ability to purchase the Wygen I power plant and receive the required approvals from the WPSC and FERC. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions which we believe are reasonable based on current expectations and projections about future events and industry conditions and trends affecting our business. However, whether actual results and developments will conform to our expectations and predictions is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that, among other things, could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements, the risk factors described in Item 1A of Part I of our 2017 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC, and other reports that we file with the SEC from time to time.

New factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in forward looking statements emerge from time-to-time, and it is not possible for us to predict all such factors, or the extent to which any such factor or combination of factors may cause actual results to differ from those contained in any forward-looking statement. We assume no obligation to update publicly any such forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.







This announcement is distributed by West Corporation on behalf of West Corporation clients.



The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: Black Hills Corporation via GlobeNewswire

HUG#2227518

By Marcelo Rochabrun

SAO PAULO, Dec 3 (Reuters) - Two Brazilian airlines, Azul SA and Avianca Brasil, are targets for expansion in the wide-ranging alliance between United Continental Holdings Inc , Colombia's Avianca Holdings and Panama's Copa Airlines on U.S.-Latin America routes, Avianca Holdings' Chief Financial Officer, Gerardo Grajales, told Reuters on Monday.

There was little reference to Brazil, by far the region's largest market, when the alliance was announced on Friday, but Grajales said the parties to the agreement already had in mind Azul and Avianca Brasil, which operates independently of Colombia-based Avianca Holdings.

"The two airlines complement each other in the Brazilian market," Grajales said. "From the beginning we thought that Brazil should be covered by our agreement, however, no partnership would be authorized if it did not have an Open Skies agreement."

The Open Skies agreement between Brazil and the United States was signed into law in May, when discussions among the three airlines were already advanced, he explained.

The airline agreement mimics a partnership between American Airlines and Chile's Latam Airlines which has been mired in regulatory scrutiny.

The announcement between the United Airlines parent, Avianca and Copa capped off almost two years of negotiations. United will loan Avianca's majority shareholder almost $500 million to be spent on ventures outside of the airline.

Depending on how it is repaid, United could end up owning a large chunk of the Colombian carrier. United is making no monetary investment in Copa or its affiliates.

United already owns an 8 percent stake in Azul, and has a codesharing agreement with Avianca Brasil, formerly known as Ocean Air.

Shares in Azul were down almost 5 percent on Monday afternoon in Sao Paulo. The world's largest asset manager BlackRock disclosed late on Friday that it had sold an almost 10 percent stake in Azul's preferred shares. Hours earlier, the carrier disclosed in another securities filing that it sought to double in size in the next five years.

Azul did not immediately respond to a request for comment. (Reporting by Marcelo Rochabrun; Editing by David Gregorio)Donald Trump, Xi Jinping, G20 summit, buenos aires

Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping have agreed to a 90-day ceasefire in their trade war at the G20 summit. But the deal to hold tariffs at current levels fails to address longer-term tensions and may simply prove a pause in escalating tariffs.

At Saturdays dinner US President Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping agreed to a 90-day truce in the trade war that has rattled the worlds two superpowers and sent shockwaves across global markets.

The US has agreed to leave existing tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods at 10% and refrain from raising that rate to 25% on 1 January as previously threatened. China agreed to boost purchases of farm and industrial goods to reduce the trade imbalance.

Forced technology transfer for US companies operating in China, and key tenets of the Chinese Governments' Made in China programme, are among points of difference between the two.

Following Saturdays much anticipated dinner between Trump and Xi, the White House touted the meeting as a "breakthrough" in the trade dispute. Beijing agreed to buy an unspecified but "very substantial" amount of agricultural, energy and industrial products, the White House said in a statement.

Xi said he was "is open to approving the previously unapproved" deal for US company Qualcomm to acquire Netherlands-based NXP Semiconductors "should it again be presented".

In July, Qualcomm, the world's biggest smartphone-chip maker, walked away from a $44 billion deal to buy NXP Semiconductors after failing to secure Chinese regulatory approval, becoming a high-profile victim of the Sino-US trade dispute.

Speaking to reporters on Presidental aircraft Air Force One, Trump hailed his agreement with Xi an "incredible deal". He added: "What I'll be doing is holding back on tariffs. China will be opening up. China will be getting rid of tariffs."

He said under the deal China would buy a "tremendous amount of agricultural and other product" from the US. "It'll have an incredibly positive impact on farming."

Story continues

Xi also agreed to designate the drug fentanyl as a controlled substance, the White House said. For more than a year, Trump has raised concerns about the synthetic opioid being sent from China to the US, which is experiencing an epidemic of opioid-related deaths.

The meeting in Buenos Aires was a change in tack in the trade dispute that has clouded global markets all year. Prior to the meeting Trump had threatened to add tariffs on another $267 billion of Chinese imports.

US companies and consumers have been bearing part of the cost of the US tariffs on China by paying higher prices, and many companies have hiked prices on imported goods.

Both Parties Suffer 'Promise Fatigue'

Reactions to the talks in Buenos Aires were mixed. Some market analysts see the talks as offering a first step towards more meaningful detente; others, however, are less sanguine.

Morningstar Investment Management's Brad Bugg, head of multi-asset income, says financial markets will likely respond positively to news that the prospect of "imminent trade war between the US and China is fading, having been a primary concern for most of 2018".

"However, while we watch these developments closely, our most recent focus has been on those companies, countries and regions that have been most negatively impacted by these headlines, and looked to add exposure given many assets look to have been oversold.

"It is these types of opportunities which we think investors benefit from most over the longer term, as opposed to trying to predict what Present Xi or Trump will do next," he says.

BNY Mellon's Singapore-based senior sovereign analyst, Aninda Mitra, hailed the meeting as an "interlude" that hopefully sets the scene for a "a stronger effort to set a framework for more talks and quid-pro quos".

"The three-month extension must therefore be seen in the context of the 'promise fatigue' of the US authorities and Chinese wariness about eventual conflict  if not outright hostility  becoming inevitable.

"The best one can hope for in three months time is a trade and geopolitical deal in which we see a road-map for China to materially raise oil and agriculture imports from the US to cut the bilateral surplus by more than 50 per cent in about one to two years time.

Mitras concerns are twofold: on one hand, the US becoming aggrieved amid the promise fatigue, and on the other, fears that China will feel it has been shortchanged.

"China may feel the US pockets the tactical concessions and does not make much effort to understand their different development model, which limits the degree to which they can totally alter their growth model simply to satisfy the US," Mitra says.

Management of fellow global fund manager, J.P. Morgan, suggested that the outcome in Buenos Aires will be a positive for risk sentiment.

"Investors were roughly anticipating a three-to six-month ceasefire, and the two sides wound up agreeing on 90 days, so the low-end of expectations," the fund management firm said in a statement. "The rest of G20 was largely uneventful for markets."

Rabobank analysts struck a more pessimistic note. They doubt that "anything substantive" will be achieved from the meeting in the longer term.

While "neither side is ready for the war, neither side will budge, said Rabobank's Michael Avery.

Stock markets across Asia and Australiasia traded higher on Monday following the news.PRAGUE (AP)  A Czech spy agency says it's "obvious" that Russia was behind cyberattacks against the country's foreign ministry, calling them the most serious case of cyberespionage to hit the European country.

The agency known as BIS said in its annual report Monday the attacks were part of the Turla campaign by Russia's FSB intelligence agency and APT28 campaign by GRU military intelligence agency.

Other European countries have faced similar attacks.

BIS says 150 email accounts were hacked in an attack that began in early 2016 and was discovered last year. The Czechs then said it was a sophisticated attack and experts believed it was done by a foreign state. BIS says a separate cyberattack started in December 2016.

Prime Minister Andrej Babis says his government will discuss the agency's findings in January.Its been 17 months in the making but  barring a last-minute hitch  the U.K. and the European Union will agree to the terms of Brexit at a special summit in Brussels on Sunday.

Yet for British Prime Minister Theresa May, whos battled opposition from all sides on her way to a deal, the hardest part is still to come  winning over critics in her own Conservative Party.

Her next task is to take the deal back to London and try to get it through a vote in Parliament. Euroskeptic Tories hate the plan to keep close to the EUs trade rules and are vowing to oppose it. If the agreement fails to win approval from the House of Commons, the U.K. will be on course to crash out of the EU in a chaotic no deal split on March 29.

Mays search for parliamentary votes became even more complicated when an 11th hour clash with Spain over the future of the disputed territory of Gibraltar erupted into a crisis that threatened to torpedo Sundays summit.

On Saturday, May backed down, agreeing to demands for a legal declaration that any new trade pact between Gibraltar and the EU would need to be separate from the deal that the U.K. strikes. May insisted that her stance hadnt changed, as the U.K. had already agreed that Gibraltar would be treated differently last year.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez had threatened to boycott Sundays Brexit deal summit if she didnt comply.

While Sanchez claimed victory, Mays compromise outraged euroskeptics in her Tory party, for whom the sovereignty of the 2.6 square-mile strip of British land adjoining the Spanish coast is a totemic issue.

Owen Paterson, a former minister and pro-Brexit campaigner, said Mays concession was utterly shameful. Gibraltar should be free to enjoy the benefits of any new trade deals signed by a newly independent U.K., he told Bloomberg.

Another Tory Nadine Dorries said May had abandoned Gibraltar and capitulated to every single EU demand.

May defended her decision, insisting the U.K.s policy hadnt changed.

Story continues

We will always negotiate on behalf of the whole U.K. family including Gibraltar, she said, arriving in Brussels for talks with Tusk on Saturday. Im proud that Gibraltar is British and I will always stand by Gibraltar.

On Sunday May will be hoping for some respite. Shell sit down with the leaders of the 27 remaining EU member countries and sign off on both the divorce deal and an outline for a future trade negotiation, which will start once the U.K. has left.

I will recommend that we approve on Sunday the outcome of the #Brexit negotiations, European Council President Donald Tusk tweeted. No one has reasons to be happy. But at least at this critical time, the EU27 has passed the test of unity and solidarity.Blockchain

A recent article in Barrons describes Angus Champion de Crespigny, who spent ten years at professional services firm Ernst and Young and led the blockchain financial services division for years and was the subject of the article entitled This Blockchain Believer Turned Heretic Is Still Bullish On Bitcoin, as a major skeptic. Champion de Crespigny describes himself as an experienced executive with 11 years in financial services, evangelist for bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, and a pragmatist for distributed and decentralized systems.

Through the course of the interview, Champion de Crespigny speaks on his learned experience regarding the blockchain and how it transformed him from a believer to his present state as a pessimist regarding the blockchain and what it can actually do for businesses. The article is quick to note that the former employee does not speak for EY  in a statement to the publication they said blockchains really can provide value.

On its website, Ernst & Young claims an even more positive outlook on blockchain:

Blockchain technology has the potential to universally reshape the way business transacts across nearly every industry in the global economy.

They note that their clients collectively have more than 50 blockchain-enabled products around the world. And as we recently reported here at CCN, EY and several other firms of similar nature have an insatiable need for blockchain experts. EY also very recently launched its own blockchain product.

But Angus Champion de Crespigny, who was down in the trenches with the blockchain, isnt so positive on it. He left college the very year Bitcoin was finishing up development and was a very junior associate at EY when the Bitcoin blockchain first launched. EY obviously had no blockchain division at that time, and Champion de Crespigny took an interest in Bitcoin well in advance of the company taking an interest. As he told Barrons:

Story continues

I got very involved in the community then, which was quite small. [] I started advising on regulatory considerations, which are now kind of commonplace. Over time at EY, as more and more clients were asking about it, I was more and more the go-to guy. We eventually formed a group. So while I was actively working on it starting in 2014, the group was really formalized in 2015.

He says he had a very optimistic view of the blockchain before and after the formal creation of a job advising on the financial aspects of it. It would be silly for me to say otherwise. My views were aligned with a lot of the common views at the time. 

Champion de Crespigny describes the problematic nature of a public blockchain as regards the needs of private enterprise. In his view, from his experience, the usual problem was that of coordination on standards for a given blockchain product.

[] if everyone agrees on the standardsthen it would be a great setup. In reality the process to get there is just incredibly, incredibly complicated. Typically, as it evolves, you end up having to coordinate everyone. And if you can coordinate everyone, then there is often a better technology to use than a blockchain.

Legal Contracts Over Smart Contracts

The rules of advanced, permissioned blockchains become very, very complicated when multiple entities need to make demands of them. Champion de Crespigny says that usually a central trusted entity is resorted to anyway, thereby defeating the purpose of trustless ledgers. He points out a known fact: centralized distributed ledgers are faster, and the reason they are faster is because it is all built around a central controlling entity. The obvious counter-argument is that the central entity in charge of a centralized distributed ledger becomes an attack vector. But Champion de Crespigny addresses this as well, saying:

You want a blockchain when you dont know who you can trust, because you dont want any one party being able to arbitrarily change those things. The thing is that in the business world, we have legal contracts to do that.

Perhaps the most pessimistic statement comes next: People are now being sold a dream that a blockchain is going to be easier to do all of this, and I just dont think thats accurate. 

Headline Chasers and A Lack of Added Value

Champion de Crispigny says that some businesses would go with a blockchain even when he bluntly told them it was unnecessary or less efficient than traditional options such as Oracle. Companies would reportedly want to explore the technology, and EY would help them do so. Then there is the hype factor  plenty of companies have dabbled in blockchain just to enter the current news cycle, which hardly does a full spin without some mention of crypto, blockchain, et cetera. As he says, I wont comment on specific companies, but there is a certain amount of headline chasing.

As to cryptocurrencies themselves and the persistent view of many in traditional finance  blockchain not Bitcoin  Champion de Crispigny believes that Westerners discount the valuable role cryptos can play in the lives of people who dont necessarily trust their local fiat currency. Venezuela comes to mind.

But as far as the blockchain fully revolutionizing every sector of business, Champion de Crispigny just doesnt see it. I didnt see where private blockchains could create any value to business, he says.

Featured image from Shutterstock



The post Former Ernst & Young Analyst Disillusioned by the Blockchain appeared first on CCN.

* Macron has promised to fight climate change

* President faces protests over fuel tax increase

* Leaders elsewhere wary of backlash over such taxes

* Climate change summit being held in Poland

By Bate Felix

PARIS, Dec 2 (Reuters) - When Emmanuel Macron rose to power, he put the environment at the heart of his agenda. Eighteen months later, anger over those policies has stoked protests that are a huge challenge for the French president.

Rioters torched cars and buildings in central Paris on Saturday following two weeks of protests caused partly by higher fuel taxes which Macron says are needed to fight climate change. Some protesters called for him to resign.

Macron's plight illustrates a conundrum: How do political leaders' introduce policies that will do long-term good for the environment without inflicting extra costs on voters that may damage their chances of re-election?

It is a question facing leaders across the world as delegates hold talks in the Polish city of Katowice this week to try to produce a "rule book" to flesh out details of the 2015 Paris Agreement on fighting climate change.

"Clearly, countries where inequalities are the highest are the ones where these kinds of push-backs are mostly likely," Francois Gemenne, a specialist in environmental geopolitics at SciencesPo university in Paris, said of the political risks.

Naming Italy, the United States and Britain as countries where environmental moves could risk a voter backlash, he said: "I guess it's one of the reasons why populist leaders tend to be very sceptical about climate change and environmental measures."

The protests in France have inspired a similar movement in neighbouring Belgium, where protesters took to the streets on Friday.

There have also been small-scale protests in Canada over Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's plan to impose a federal carbon tax on provinces unwilling to combat climate change.

What was once widely seen by governments as a win-win transition to cleaner energies now looks more like causing short-term costs with huge social disruption, followed by possible long-run gains.

Story continues

Another challenge facing leaders is over how they use the proceeds from policies intended to help the environment: Should money raised from carbon taxes be used directly to combat climate change, or to plug holes in national accounts?

CARBON TAXES

Macron said after the latest protests in Paris that he would convene ministers to discuss the crisis on his return from a G20 summit in Argentina. Prime Minister Edouard Philippe cancelled plans to go to Katowice for the climate change summit.

Macron introduced new carbon taxes to urge motorists to change behaviour and protect the environment.

Macron has watered down some of his campaign pledges on the environment since he took office, and his popular environment minister quit in August over the sluggishness of progress. But he has shown little willingness to compromise in the face of the protests.

The fuel tax is accompanied by other measures including incentives to encourage people to buy electric vehicles.

Unveiling a medium-term energy plan for France last week, he held out an olive branch by saying he would review fuel prices each quarter, but said the carbon taxes would stay.

His goal is for France to cut carbon emissions by 40 percent by 2030 and boost the use of cleaner energies at the same time. Emissions are currently rising and 75 percent of energy use in France originates from fossil fuels.

"When we talk about the actions of the nation in response to the challenges of climate change, we have to say that we have done little," he said.

Macron has also said he will fight to try to save the Paris climate agreement, which aims to keep global temperature rises to between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius, a critical threshold.

Scientists are increasingly concerned that countries are falling short on their targets and must be more ambitious. Yet citizens are worried about their immediate lives.

"POLICIES OF TRANSITION"

In Canada, addressing the question of how governments use the money raised from carbon taxes, Trudeau's government has promised to return the money collected from the provinces directly to taxpayers.

But in France most of the revenue generated will be used to tackle the national budget deficit, increasing anger at Macron, who left-wing opponents call the "president of the rich".

Of the 34 billion euros ($38.71 billion) the French government will raise on fuel taxes in 2018, a sum of only 7.2 billion euros is earmarked for environmental measures.

Simon Dalby, a specialist in the political economy of climate change at Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada, says carbon taxes should be part of wider measures to alter how people live, including better, greener transport and buildings.

"It is all about policies for transition to a post-fossil-fuel world, something that needs to be done quickly if the worst of the predicted climate disruptions are to be avoided in the coming decades," he said.

Gemenne said the protests in France were unlikely to go away soon, and may emerge in other countries as they take more determined action on emissions.

The danger, he said, was inaction, or acting too late to prevent global warming. At the same time, politicians need to be able to show they were acting fairly and equitably. (Reporting by Bate Felix, Additional reporting by Michel Rose, Editing by Luke Baker and Timothy Heritage)We issued an updated research report on Illinois Tool Works Inc. ITW on Nov 30, 2018.



This machinery company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Its market capitalization is approximately $46.1 billion.



A few growth drivers and certain headwinds, which might influence Illinois Tool Works, have been discussed below.



Factors Favoring Illinois Tool



Financial Performance & Bottom-Line Outlook: Illinois Tool pulled off a positive average earnings surprise of 1.92% in the last four quarters. This includes the impact of 0.53% earnings beat recorded in the third quarter of 2018. In this quarter, the companys earnings grew 11.1% year over year on the back of benefits realized from enterprise initiatives.



For 2018, Illinois Tool anticipates gaining from solid product demand in North America and margin expansion. Further, lower taxes and decrease in share count will be advantageous. It predicts earnings per share (GAAP) of $7.55-$7.65, with the mid-point reflecting year-over-year growth of 15%.



Moreover, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings per share on the stock is pegged at $7.60 for 2018 and $8.10 for 2019, reflecting year-over-year growth of 15.3% and 6.5%, respectively. In the next three to five years, the companys earnings are predicted to grow 9.9%.



In the past month, Illinois Tools shares have yielded 6.2%, outperforming 2.9% increase recorded by the industry.









Tactical Initiatives: Over time, Illinois Tool gained from its Enterprise Strategy. These initiatives  including Business Structure Simplification, Portfolio Management and Strategic Sourcing  were introduced in 2012. While Business Structure Simplification and Portfolio Management strategies strengthened the companys organic sales, Strategic Sourcing helped in managing costs and improving margins.



In the third quarter of 2018, the companys operating margin improved 30 basis points (bps) year over year. Enterprise Strategy in the quarter contributed 100 bps to margins.



For 2018, Illinois Tool anticipates Enterprise Strategy to add roughly 100 bps to operating margin in 2018.



Impressive Capital-Allocation Strategy: Illinois Tool effectively uses its cash flow to augment growth opportunities as well as reward shareholders handsomely. The company rewards its shareholders through dividend payments and share buybacks. In the first nine months of 2018, it used $792 million for paying dividends and $1,500 million for buying back shares. Its worth mentioning here that the company hiked its quarterly dividend rate by 28% and got approval for $3-billion share buyback program in August 2018.



For 2018, the company anticipates buying back approximately $2 billion worth of its shares.



Factors Working Against Illinois Tool



Top-Line Weakness: In the third quarter of 2018, Illinois Tools organic sales suffered from poor performance in the European, Chinese and the Asia-Pacific end markets. New emission regulations and lower exports to China hurt European auto production while lack of financing and poor consumer sentiments impacted Chinese auto production.



We believe that continuance of such headwinds might deter top-line growth in the quarters ahead. For 2018, the company anticipates top line to grow 3-4%, down from 4-5% mentioned earlier.



Rising Costs and Expenses: In the first nine months of 2018, Illinois Tool recorded 5.3% increase in the cost of sales and 0.6% hike in operating expenses. The company believes that tariffs imposed on import of various items have inflated its raw material costs and has been escalating its cost of sales lately.



The company believes that pricing actions are likely to mitigate $30 million of adverse impacts related to tariffs in 2018. Tariff woes are predicted to amount to $60 million in 2019.



Headwinds From Currency Translation: Geographical diversification is reflective of a flourishing business of Illinois Tool. However, this diversity exposed the company to headwinds arising from geopolitical issues and unfavorable movements in foreign currencies. In the third quarter of 2018, forex woes adversely impacted earnings by 3 cents.



Stocks to Consider



Some better-ranked stocks in the industry are DXP Enterprises, Inc. DXPE, EnPro Industries, Inc. NPO and Luxfer Holdings PLC LXFR. All these stocks currently sport a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.



In the past 60 days, earnings estimates for all these three stocks improved for the current year. Further, positive earnings surprise for the last quarter was 17.95% for DXP Enterprises, 23.64% for EnPro Industries and 60.61% for Luxfer.



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Zacks Investment ResearchKATOWICE, Poland (AP)  The Latest on the U.N. climate talks taking place in Katowice, Poland (all times local):

2 a.m.

The World Bank Group says it is doubling funding for poor countries preparing for climate change to $200 billion over five years.

The Washington-based organization said Monday that about half would come from the World Bank itself, while the rest would be sourced from other institutions within the group and private capital.

The bank said some $50 billion will be earmarked for climate adaptation, a recognition that some adverse effects of global warming can't be avoided anymore but require a change in practice.

This includes building homes that can withstand more extreme weather and finding new sources of freshwater as rising seas contaminate existing supplies.

The announcement comes as leaders are meeting in Poland for U.N. talks on tackling global warming.

___

4:15 p.m.

Dozens of environmentalists have picketed the site of a former coal mine in Poland that is located near to where a global climate summit is being held.

Polish group Action Democracy said on Sunday that its supporters were protesting Poland's continued reliance on coal, a particularly dirty fossil fuel.

The summit taking place Dec. 2-14 in Katowice is intended to build on the 2015 Paris climate accord, which set a goal of limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) by the end of the century.

Host country Poland still gets most of its electricity from burning coal. The government's current plans put it far off course from achieving climate neutrality by 2050, a goal scientists say must be reached to prevent catastrophic climate change.

___

3:35 p.m.

At least 65,000 people marched on the European Union's headquarters in Belgium to show support for the bloc's proposed curbs on climate change.

Braving rain and wind, demonstrators thronged the main road in central Brussels where the EU headquarters are located. Police said the peaceful march, held as a global climate conference got underway in Poland on Sunday, was the biggest climate demonstration in Belgium's history.

The EU has proposed cutting greenhouse gas emissions from member countries to net zero by 2050. Scientists say that target needs to be adopted worldwide to avoid catastrophic global warming.

Story continues

The EU has traditionally been among the most ambitious climate advocates.

___

3:10 p.m.

Greenpeace is condemning a court in Slovakia for ordering the continued detention of activists who protested a lignite mining company.

A county court in Prievidza ruled on Sunday that the 12 Greenpeace activists would have to remain in custody until they are put on trial, saying they might continue illegal activity if they are released.

The activists from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Finland and Belgium were arrested for displaying anti-coal mining banners on a mining tower in Novaky. The Slovakian court's order came as negotiators from around the world assembled in neighboring Poland for two weeks of talks on curbing climate change.

Greenpeace says the 12 face unfounded criminal charges and could face prison terms of up to five years if they are convicted. It called their detention "unacceptable."

___

2:35 p.m.

The governor of Germany's most populous state says it's premature to set a firm date for phasing out the use of coal-fired power plants, as environmental campaigners are demanding.

North Rhine-Westphalia state governor Armin Laschet told Germany's Funke media group that such a move shouldn't be tied to the global climate conference starting in Katowice, Poland, on Sunday.

German officials had hoped to present a blueprint for the country's exit from coal at the Dec. 2-14 meeting, but an expert committee postponed issuing its recommendations until next year.

Laschet says Germany's decision to stop mining and burning lignite coal "must be considered seriously and decided with broad consensus."

Laschet, whose state has large lignite mines, warned that even if a date for exiting coal is set, it should be reviewed in the 2030s to avoid jeopardizing electricity supplies.

___

10 a.m.

Negotiators from around the world began two weeks of talks on curbing climate change Sunday, three years after sealing a landmark deal in Paris that set a goal of keeping global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit).

Envoys from almost 200 nations gathered in Poland's southern city of Katowice, a day earlier than originally planned, for the U.N. meeting that's scheduled to run until Dec. 14.

Ministers and some heads of government are joining in Monday, when host Poland will push for a joint declaration to ensure a "just transition" for fossil fuel industries like coal producers who are facing closures as part of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The meeting received a boost over the weekend, after 19 major economies at the G-20 summit affirmed their commitment to the 2015 Paris climate accord. The only holdout was the United States, which announced under President Donald Trump that it is withdrawing from the climate pact.

___

Follow Frank Jordans on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/wirereporter

___

Read more stories on climate issues by The Associated Press at https://www.apnews.com/ClimateBy Dave Graham

MEXICO CITY, Dec 1 (Reuters) - Veteran leftist Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador assumes the Mexican presidency on Saturday vowing to champion the poor and contain business elites he says have conspired with politicians for years to fuel corruption and lawlessness.

After a busy five-month transition that has spooked financial markets, Lopez Obrador will take responsibility for fixing escalating gang violence, chronic poverty and widespread discontent with the political class in Mexico.

To do that, the anti-establishment former Mexico City mayor plans to increase pensions, create a militarized Guardia Nacional nationwide police force, change the penal code to amnesty lesser criminals, and hold referendums to back his policies.

An admirer of Mexican President Lazaro Cardenas, who nationalized Mexico's oil industry in 1938, Lopez Obrador will be the first leftist to run the country since it began moving from one-party rule towards democracy in the 1980s.

Thanks to a landslide victory and a coalition that controls both houses of Congress, he enters office as one of the most powerful presidents in decades.

The 65-year-old took a conciliatory approach to investors during the campaign, but has struggled to reconcile deeply-held personal ideals with his pragmatic acknowledgment that he needs a stable economy and investment to achieve his goals.

He also wants to improve ties with U.S. President Donald Trump by crafting a deal to contain migration from Central America in exchange for U.S. aid to help develop the violent, impoverished region.

"Mexico is going to be a safe country, a country that really encourages investment," he said in a video address this week, promising his inauguration speech would be business-friendly.

But also this week, he stepped up threats to unpick outgoing President Enrique Pena Nieto's agenda, slamming the latter's "neo-liberal" opening of the oil industry to foreign capital.

ROLLER-COASTER

The months since the election have been a white-knuckle ride for investors. Markets gyrated to abrupt decisions backed by what Lopez Obrador calls participatory democracy, but what critics see as autocratic populism.

Story continues

On Oct. 29, he canceled a $13 billion new Mexico City airport, alleging a taint of corruption, leading investors to dump shares, bonds and the peso currency.

Though it has since pared some of those losses, the Mexican bourse is still close to three-year lows.

Lopez Obrador, who long opposed the airport, justified the decision with an opaque referendum his party organized in which barely one percent of the electorate voted. He said the cancellation sent a message there would be a clear division between political and economic power in Mexico.

He has since doubled down on referendums, while reacting sharply to criticism, fueling concerns in some corners he may push the country in a more partisan direction.

Juan Carlos Romero Hicks, lower house leader of the opposition center-right National Action Party (PAN), said Mexico needed to brace for uncertainty in months ahead, arguing Lopez Obrador had "lost touch with reality."

Some of the toughest problems Lopez Obrador faces are more severe than when Pena Nieto took office in 2012 vowing to tackle unprecedented violence. Like his predecessor, the new president says security will be his top priority.

More than 25,000 murders, a record, were logged in 2017. But over 10,000 were registered between July and October, the bloodiest four-month period since modern records began in 1997.

Lopez Obrador enters office with more support than Pena Nieto, according to a Nov. 23-25 survey by polling firm Consulta Mitofsky published on Friday.

Mitofsky said 62.6 percent approved of his performance as president-elect compared with 56.4 percent for Pena Nieto, whose popularity later plunged to record lows after a series of corruption scandals and his failure to curb gang violence.

But the poll also hinted at divisions.

Some 34.7 percent disapproved of the job Lopez Obrador had done in the transition, a more skeptical assessment than Mexicans gave the three previous presidents.

A clash with a G20 summit in Buenos Aires means few leaders from major powers will attend Lopez Obrador's inauguration.

Latin American left-wing presidents, including Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro, Cuba's Miguel Diaz-Canel and Bolivia's Evo Morales, feature prominently. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and Trump's daughter Ivanka will also attend. (Reporting by Dave Graham Editing by Frank Jack Daniel and Sonya Hepinstall)MEXICO CITY (AP)  President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador used his first full day in office Sunday to double down on promises to deploy Mexico's military for public security to address a key concern: stemming rampant violence and rising murders.

Speaking before rows of generals at a sun-drenched military installation in one of Mexico City's toniest neighborhoods, Lopez Obrador said the retooling of the military is "indispensable" to tackle the daunting task of making Mexico safer.

The plan requires a constitutional reform that would allow the marines and army to form a National Guard to police much of the country. Mexico's Supreme Court last month struck down a controversial law signed last year that created a similar legal framework, ruling the measure was an unconstitutional attempt to normalize the use of the armed forces in public safety.

Deep-rooted corruption and ineffectiveness among police forces has led Mexico to rely heavily for years on the military to combat drug cartels in parts of the country. But both human rights groups and military commanders have long expressed uneasiness about this open-ended policing mission.

Erika Guevara Rosas, the Americas director for Amnesty International, has called militarized security a "failed model" that has led to "serious human rights violations at the hands of the armed forces."

Hopes for change are running high among the more than 30 million Mexicans who voted for Lopez Obrador in a sweeping July 1 election victory that also gave his party a majority in Congress. At the same time, worries are mounting among critics who see an expanding authoritarian streak.

If three or four more legislators defect to his Morena party, it would have a super-majority needed to pass constitutional reforms.

Gustavo Madero, a leading senator with the opposition National Action Party, told The Associated Press that he is very concerned that bills could quickly make their way through Congress with little input from affected parties or public debate.

"We are going to raise attention to the political costs of the democratic abuses, and that is where we are going to be able to achieve some concessions," said Madero, whose great-uncle was a martyred Mexican president who Lopez Obrador admires and mentions almost daily.

Story continues

Lopez Obrador says he will put the question of creating a National Guard to a referendum so that the people can weigh in on the decision, as they did with the question of whether to continue with construction of a $13 billion airport for the capital that was a third built.

Little more than 1 percent of registered voters participated in the airport referendum, with a majority calling to halt the project. The peso and Mexican stocks plunged in response.

Valeria Moy, director of the Mexico, Como Vamos? think tank, called such referendums "authoritarianism in disguise" because the questionnaires can be tailored to validate executive proposals.

Madero described the referendums as "simulations of direct democracy" to legitimize decisions that the executive branch has already taken.

Lopez Obrador vowed on the campaign trail to return troops to the barracks rather than to continue deploying the military in domestic matters. He has since backtracked on that promise, saying he didn't realize how hopelessly corrupt civilian law enforcement agencies were.

Plus, the mission is critical: The national statistics institute logged 31,174 slayings in 2017, the most since comparable records began being kept in 1997, including the peak year of Mexico's drug war in 2011. The homicide rate last year broke down to 25 per 100,000 inhabitants  near the levels of Brazil and Colombia at 27 per 100,000.

Lopez Obrador pledged Sunday to strengthen the armed forces while promoting programs to get more young people to study or work rather than succumbing to the temptation of joining criminal groups. And he praised the generals for having climbed the ranks from working-class beginnings, noting that several were sons of shopkeepers and farmers.

"The soldier, the marine, is the people in uniform," the president said, repeating an oft-used refrain.

Lopez Obrador has steamed ahead on other priorities, such as evaluating options for the thousands of Central American migrants seeking U.S. asylum who are currently camped out in border towns such as Tijuana and Mexicali. Andrew Selee, president of the Migration Policy Institute, told The Associated Press that migration is likely to be the most pressing issue in the U.S.-Mexico relationship for some time.

Lopez Obrador signed an agreement Saturday with his counterparts from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras to work on a development plan to stem migration north. On Sunday, Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard traveled to Washington to meet with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

Mexico's presidential jet will depart for San Bernardino, California, on Monday to be reconditioned for sale as part of Lopez Obrador's austerity push.

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner with beds, shower and stone bathroom countertops was purchased for $368 million in November 2012, just before Enrique Pena Nieto took office as president for a six-year term that ended Saturday. The finished plane was delivered in February 2016.

Finance Minister Carlos Urzua said Sunday that Mexico will also sell 60 smaller planes and 70 helicopters now in use by the federal government.

Lopez Obrador says he will fly coach in commercial planes.Morgan Stanley's auto analyst Adam Jonas has been leading a steady research effort at the Wall Street firm.

"Folks I think were saying 'alright Adam, we're used to this kind of stuff. But what are you trying to get out of this?" Jonas told CNBC in a recent interview.

Morgan Stanley has a space team made up of 11 analysts covering sectors from aerospace to the internet.

Adam Jonas became famous  and to some, infamous  on Wall Street when he called for Tesla's TSLA stock to more than double to $70 a share.

He made that call in 2011 as Morgan Stanley's auto analyst, saying Tesla was set to "shake-up" the "complacent" auto industry. He continued to follow up with bullish price target increases as the electric automaker's shares rose. While Tesla has been a volatile stock in the years since, it now trades at around $350 a share.

The prediction earned Jonas a reputation inside Morgan Stanley as "kind of a mad scientist," he said in a recent interview. Now he's doing it again  but with the space industry.

His interest in Tesla naturally led him to SpaceX, Elon Musk's other ambitious transportation venture, which Jonas believes is bound to affect the future of the electric car maker. SpaceX is getting into broadband technologies at the same time the auto industry and Tesla are pushing into advanced technologies like autonomous driving.

"We didn't start out one day thinking 'hey, let's do space,' necessarily," Jonas said. While visiting Tesla in 2010, Jonas stopped by SpaceX. After that, Jonas started gathering other Morgan Stanley analysts to help him research the space industry.

His early efforts may be about to pay off. This year has been "very, very active in terms of capital formation and then technological advancement" in the space industry, he said. And Morgan Stanley has been talking to many of the new space companies, including: OneWeb , Rocket Lab , Vector , FireFly Aerospace , Spaceflight Industries , Planet Labs , Spire Global , BridgeSat and NanoRacks  to name a few.

Story continues

'Auto boy' discovers space

Jonas told CNBC "they called me auto boy" when he joined the Wall Street firm. Raised in the Rust Belt of northern Ohio, Jonas says he was surrounded by auto industry: His uncles worked at car businesses, his classes at the University of Michigan were taught be retired auto executives, and his first job at brokerage Dean Witter focused on industrial clients in Chicago.

Jonas shifted into equity research after Dean Witter was acquired by Morgan Stanley in the late 1990s and spent a dozen years in London as a European auto analyst.

Read more: Morgan Stanley predicts space industry will triple in size: Here's how to invest

His more recent shift to space came after "[We started] realizing there's a hell of a lot going on," Jonas said. But there was an early disconnect: Investors didn't seem to care. Jonas said he and the firm's space team were looking at "dozens and dozens of companies" but when they talk to the bank's clients about it "they giggle.'"

Jonas wanted to dive deeper. Higher-ups at Morgan Stanley were "open-minded but needed to be sold on the idea" of putting time and resources behind assembling a team of space analysts, Jonas said. He paired up with Armintas Sinkevicius, who has a background in telecommunications.

Sinkevicius remembers "the constant delays" and, in some cases, bankruptcies of satellite communication and broadband networks over the last 20 years. And that experience is a good foil to Jonas.

"Adam is the much more exciting storyteller and I'm the much more dry, sort of 'in the numbers' person," Sinkevicius told CNBC. "I played more of the role of reeling Adam in a bit and saying, 'you know, there's a lot of people that have scars from things like Iridium and Teledesic and Globalstar.'"

The Elon Musk connection: Tesla to SpaceX

"Our work on Tesla brought us into the Elon Musk sphere," Jonas said.

Morgan Stanley's autos team was "very early and quite aggressive" in researching how autonomous technologies could change the auto industry, Jonas said. But six years ago, before nearly every major tech company and automaker was pouring billions of dollars into the field, Jonas said Morgan Stanley's "clients didn't care" about autonomous.

"They said it's a science project and there's nothing in the market to play," Jonas said. That has changed, and now the space industry is poised for similar growth, Jonas believes.

Read more: Morgan Stanley sees 'a pattern forming' of the space industry developing like self-driving cars

Musk's many projects, notably SpaceX, fueled Morgan Stanley's interest in the space industry, for several reasons.

"First, we think that the future of SpaceX will affect the future of Tesla," Jonas said. "A potential combination of Tesla and SpaceX is something we've written about many, many times."

"[Second,] SpaceX is getting into broadband" satellite technologies, Jonas said.

SpaceX is currently testing its first two of more than 4,425 small satellites for the planned Starlink network. The plan puts SpaceX on a collision course with the world's biggest telecom and satellite manufacturing companies, as Starlink aims to cheaply offer broadband speeds comparable to fiber optic networks. This could quintuple SpaceX's valuation , as the network would be able to provide bandwidth to under-served , and even unserved, parts of the globe.

Morgan Stanley has not met with SpaceX since Jonas has been publishing near-monthly notes about space, he said. "That's not because we haven't tried," Jonas added.

Deploying Morgan Stanley resources for space

Jonas emphasized the collaborative nature of Morgan Stanley's space team, which is made up of 11 analysts covering sectors from aerospace to the internet. As the the firm speaks to different company boards, Jonas said the team has found that space has been one of the industries "deeply important to various members" of companies such as Alphabet GOOGL , Facebook FB , Amazon AMZN and Honeywell HON .

Along with the firm's October 2017 report, Morgan Stanley released a "Space 20" list of stocks best poised to benefit from exponential growth in the space industry.

Beyond Morgan Stanley's existing contacts, Jonas said his firm's wealth management division has also helped them get to know the companies in the industry. "So we would ask people involved wealth management 'Hey, you know anyone that has as an astronaut?' Next thing I knew we had tons of different astronaut clients," Jonas said.

"The [Morgan Stanley] network allowed us to sort of learn from our research and have conversations with people in the industry," Sinkevicius said.

The billionaire effect

Many within the space industry view the 21st century as a rebirth: Companies building rockets, satellites and more are flush with cash from private wealth and venture capital . Several billionaires are responsible for a large part of that private space revolution, such as Jeff Bezos' establishment of Blue Origin in 2000, Musk's founding of SpaceX in 2002 or the group of companies Sir Richard Branson owns as a part of his Virgin Group, including The Spaceship Company, Virgin Galactic and Virgin Orbit .

Bezos ranks highly in Jonas' view, as the Amazon founder accelerates his investments in Blue Origin. The company has quietly expanded its breadth of capabilities, from space tourism to massive rockets to propulsion to lunar landers.

"You have a company led by a guy who folks like Warren Buffett hugely respect," Jonas said.

Read more: Amazon's rising stock gives Jeff Bezos 'financial muscle' in outer space equal to whole countries

"Bezos has a very aggressive and spirited philanthropic approach to space," Jonas said. "He's willing to go in and not be worried about making a profit right away."

Bezos is playing a necessary role in building the industry's growth, according to Jonas, and has the ability to rally Americans around space like they did during the Space Race in the 20th century.

"I think [Blue Origin is] his way of trying to help the country have an Apollo effect, create a sense to have more second graders want to do math and sciences, with a view on sustainability and advancement of civilization and technology  rather than just allocating capital and doing bitcoin or other things that might be slightly less noble," Jonas said.

"Jeff could really influence lawmakers, budget allocators, the president himself, to help accelerate what maybe without him would have taken 15 years but with him maybe takes five."

Additionally, there are few with more credibility than Bezos on both Capitol Hill and Wall Street, in Jonas' view.

"It's who he is and his ability to change thinking and maybe accelerate what are necessary collaborations between private industry and regulatory bodies," Jonas said.

Tackling the space industry means not being afraid to be wrong

While Morgan Stanley's clients are slow to embrace space as a place to invest, the group has pressed forward.

Read more: Morgan Stanley can't get clients to care but it thinks investing in space will be a very big deal

"We're just not afraid to take views. We're not afraid to be wrong," Jonas said. "And if we're wrong then maybe you derive some value from the conversation. But if we're right  and we're the only ones talking about that topic or one of the only ones  then we [own] the market."

Even Morgan Stanley's sales team is beginning to grasp the change happening in the space industry, Jonas said. He says the firm's sales representatives told him "listen, when you published this stuff a year ago we were thinking: 'What's going on here?' But we see it. We see it forming and we're with you.'"

The prioritization of space among "competing economic superpowers" is a common theme according to the national security experts who Morgan Stanley talks to regularly, Jonas said. He said the space team has asked Morgan Stanley's intelligence contacts whether the U.S. or China "is more likely to put boots on the moon the next time."

"We usually hear China," Jonas said.

Jonas laid out a thought experiment for what the U.S. response might be "if China went to the moon in five years, planted a flag and said 'we're staying and we're mining water to make fuel.'" He doubts the U.S. would just brush it off, saying "you guys are slow."

More likely, China putting astronauts on the moon would be "Sputnik on steroids," Jonas said, a reference to the U.S.'s 1950s-era competition in space against the Soviets.

Read more : Air Force general says China is advancing in space five times as fast as the US

The space industry needs a catalyst or two if it is going to become the exponential growth driver Morgan Stanley thinks it will be. A well-executed China lunar mission would be one such inflection point, Jonas thinks. Additionally, the launch of a satellite constellation by "an Apple or an Alphabet or an Amazon" would also "go a long way to accelerating the market's appreciation of this stuff," Jonas said.

"Space is more real than autonomous right now," Jonas said. "It exists, it functions, it generates revenue."

The multiple broadband satellite constellations in development could have a massive second order impact for the industry, according to Sinkevicius.

"If you get more eyeballs on the internet then you know what happens to the likes of Amazon," Sinkevicius said. "When you start attaching the Amazon, Facebook, Google effect to putting more eyeballs on to the Internet you know that was roughly a third of our $1 trillion-plus-based economy."

Overall, there's a steady realization that the space business is "very interesting and frankly fun," Jonas said.

"When we published the piece [in October 2017] we had some folks internally say 'do you realize what you've just done' but they said that in a way like 'this is phenomenal, you've just opened Pandora's Box here," Jonas said.

"It was almost like the more we looked, the more we found." Jonas added.

Read more: Morgan Stanley says 2019 could 'be the year for space,' led by the likes of SpaceX and Blue Origin







More From CNBC

Qatar quitting OPEC means the oil cartel is now just a 'two-member organization,' oil analyst says

The future of OPEC is on shaky ground, an analyst has told CNBC, after Qatar abruptly announced it would sever ties with the oil cartel.

Qatar's Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi said Monday that Doha would leave OPEC on January 1.

The decision comes just days before OPEC and its allies are scheduled to hold a meeting in Vienna.

The future of OPEC is on shaky ground, an analyst told CNBC on Monday, after Qatar abruptly announced it would sever ties with the influential oil cartel after almost six decades.

Qatar's Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi said at a news conference Monday that Doha would leave OPEC on January 1, 2019. The decision comes just days before OPEC and its allies are scheduled to hold a much-anticipated meeting in Vienna, Austria.

"This is big," Andy Critchlow, head of EMEA energy content at S&P Global Platts, told CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe."

"In the 20 years that I've been covering OPEC , I can't think of anything that is bigger than this (and) that is a more systemic risk to the future of OPEC."

'OPEC doesn't really exist anymore'

Qatar's energy minister said the country would leave OPEC and focus on gas production. He denied the move was linked to an 18-month political and economic boycott of the country.

Since June 2017, OPEC kingpin Saudi Arabia  along with three other Arab states  has cut trade and transport ties with Qatar , accusing the country of supporting terrorism and its regional rival Iran. Qatar denies the claims, saying the boycott hampers its national sovereignty.

The Middle East-dominated group's final meeting of the calendar year is now expected to be Qatar's last. It has been an official OPEC member since 1961.

Qatar is not a major oil producer when compared to other OPEC members. But, Critchlow said, when looking at the small Gulf country's total energy output, it is on course to produce more than 6 million barrels of oil equivalent per day by 2022.

Story continues

"This is a major supplier of energy to the world," Critchlow said, highlighting Qatar's status as one of the world's largest producers of liquified natural gas (LNG).

He also underlined the importance of Qatar's tactful approach to negotiating energy policy with regional rivals in recent years, saying the country had often acted as a "diplomatic bridge" in the Middle East-dominated group.

"OPEC really doesn't exist anymore, it is a two-member organization  Russia and Saudi Arabia," Critchlow said.

WATCH: Here's what drives the price of oil

Crucial meeting

Expectations are high that OPEC and non-OPEC members will orchestrate a fresh round of supply cuts later this week. It comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin said he and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman "agreed to extend" a deal to limit production.

"I think OPEC is still alive," Ayham Kamel, head of Eurasia Group's Middle East and North Africa research team, told CNBC on Monday.

"(But) I think it has become a different club. Does it become a less effective diplomatic bridge? It has been. The Iranians are not consulted, the Saudis act on their own with the Russians and try to bring everyone along," he added.

Russia is not a member of OPEC but it is the biggest crude producer allied to the cartel.

Oil prices have fallen more than 25 percent since climbing to a four-year peak in early October, amid intensifying concerns of oversupply and worries over slowing economic growth.

However, the prospect of a fresh round of production cuts later this week and a temporary trade truce between the U.S. and China has helped crude futures pare some of their recent losses.

International benchmark Brent crude was trading at $61.79 a barrel at around 10:35 a.m. London time (5:35 a.m. ET), up around 3.9 percent, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) stood at $53.08, more than 4 percent higher.

WATCH: How Qatar may cause headaches for President Trump





More From CNBC

* Doha locked in political row with OPEC's Saudi Arabia

* Qatari minister says decision not political

* OPEC "managed by a country", Qatar's Al-Kaabi says

* OPEC expected to agree oil supply cut this week

* Qatar charts more independent policies since regional rift (Adds UAE comment)

By Eric Knecht

DOHA, Dec 3 (Reuters) - Qatar said it will quit OPEC to focus on gas in a swipe at Saudi Arabia, the de facto leader of the oil exporting group which is trying to show unity in tackling an oil price slide.

Doha, one of OPEC's smallest oil producers but the world's biggest liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter, is embroiled in a row with OPEC members Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

It said the surprise decision to exit OPEC, which has 15 members including Qatar, in January was not driven by politics and it did not name Saudi Arabia, but Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad al-Kaabi said:

"We are not saying we are going to get out of the oil business but it is controlled by an organisation managed by a country," al-Kaabi said.

Qatar would attend an OPEC meeting scheduled for Thursday and Friday in Vienna and would abide by its commitments, he said, adding that Doha would focus on its gas potential.

This was because it was not practical "to put efforts and resources and time in an organisation that we are a very small player in and I don't have a say in what happens," he added.

OPEC members Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, and fellow Arab states Bahrain and Egypt, have imposed a political and economic boycott on Qatar since June 2017, accusing it of supporting terrorism, which Doha denies.

Qatar's former prime minister, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani, said on Twitter that OPEC "is only used for purposes that hurt our national interests".

The United Arab Emirates said Doha's decision was a reflection of its declining influence.

"The political aspect of Qatar's decision to quit OPEC is an admission of the decline of its role and influence in light of its political isolation," Anwar Gargash, UAE minister of state for foreign affairs, said on Twitter.

OPEC's loss of a long-standing member undermines a bid to show a united front before a meeting that is expected to back a supply cut to shore up prices. Benchmark Brent is trading at around $62 a barrel, down from more than $86 in October.

Story continues

"They are not a big producer, but have played a big part in (OPEC's) history," one OPEC source said.

It highlights the growing dominance over policy making in the oil market of Saudi Arabia, Russia and the United States, the world's top three oil producers which together account for more than a third of global output.

Riyadh and Moscow have been increasingly deciding output policies together, under pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump on OPEC to bring down prices.

"It could signal a historic turning point of the organisation towards Russia, Saudi Arabia and the United States," said Algeria's former energy minister and OPEC chairman, Chakib Khelil, commenting on Qatar's move.

"UNILATERAL DECISIONS"

He said Doha's exit would have a "psychological impact" because of the row with Riyadh and could prove "an example to be followed by other members in the wake of unilateral decisions of Saudi Arabia in the recent past."

Qatar, which Al-Kaabi said had been a member of OPEC for 57 years, has oil output of just 600,000 barrels per day (bpd), compared with Saudi Arabia's 11 million bpd.

But Doha is an influential player in the global LNG market with annual production of 77 million tonnes per year, based on its huge reserves in the Gulf.

Al-Kaabi, who is heading Qatar's OPEC delegation, said the decision was part of a long-term strategy and the country's plans to develop its gas industry and increase LNG output to 110 million tonnes by 2024.

"I assure you this purely was a decision on what's right for Qatar long term. It's a strategy decision," Al-Kaabi said.

The exit is the latest example of Qatar charting a course away from its Gulf neighbours since the rift began last year. It comes before an annual summit of Gulf Arab states expected to grapple with the roughly 18-month standoff.

Once close partners with Saudi Arabia and the UAE on trade and security, Qatar has struck scores of new trade deals with countries further afield while investing heavily to scale up local food production and ramp up military power.

"There is a sentiment in Qatar that Saudi Arabia's dominance in the region and the region's many institutions has been counterproductive to Qatar," said Andreas Krieg, a political risk analyst at King's College London. "It is about Qatar breaking free as an independent market and state from external interference."

Oil surged about 5 percent on Monday after the United States and China agreed to a 90-day truce in their trade war, but prices remain well off October's peak.

Asked if Qatar's withdrawal would complicate OPEC's decision on output this week, a non-Gulf OPEC source said: "Not really, even if it's a regrettable and sad decision."

Al-Kaabi said state oil company Qatar Petroleum planned to raise its production capability from 4.8 million barrels of oil equivalent per day to 6.5 million barrels in the next decade.

Doha also plans to build the largest ethane cracker in the Middle East and it would still look to expand its oil investments abroad, Al-Kaabi added.

(Additional reporting by Florence Tan in Singapore, Rania El Gamal and Nafisa Eltahir in Dubai, Ahmed Ghaddar in Vienna and Lamine Chikhi in Algiers Writing by Saeed Azhar and Ghaida Ghantous Editing by Michael Georgy/Edmund Blair/Alexander Smith)By Eric Knecht

DOHA (Reuters) - Qatar said it will quit OPEC to focus on gas in a swipe at Saudi Arabia, the de facto leader of the oil exporting group which is trying to show unity in tackling an oil price slide.

Doha, one of OPEC's smallest oil producers but the world's biggest liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter, is embroiled in a row with OPEC members Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

It said the surprise decision to exit OPEC, which has 15 members including Qatar, in January was not driven by politics and it did not name Saudi Arabia, but Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad al-Kaabi said:

"We are not saying we are going to get out of the oil business but it is controlled by an organization managed by a country," al-Kaabi said.

Qatar would attend an OPEC meeting scheduled for Thursday and Friday in Vienna and would abide by its commitments, he said, adding that Doha would focus on its gas potential.

This was because it was not practical "to put efforts and resources and time in an organization that we are a very small player in and I don't have a say in what happens," he added.

Graphic: Qatar's LNG and oil exports - https://tmsnrt.rs/2QbsLNgOPEC members Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, and fellow Arab states Bahrain and Egypt, have imposed a political and economic boycott on Qatar since June 2017, accusing it of supporting terrorism, which Doha denies.

Qatar's former prime minister, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani, said on Twitter that OPEC "is only used for purposes that hurt our national interests".

The United Arab Emirates said Doha's decision was a reflection of its declining influence.

"The political aspect of Qatar's decision to quit OPEC is an admission of the decline of its role and influence in light of its political isolation," Anwar Gargash, UAE minister of state for foreign affairs, said on Twitter.

OPEC's loss of a long-standing member undermines a bid to show a united front before a meeting that is expected to back a supply cut to shore up prices. Benchmark Brent is trading at around $62 a barrel, down from more than $86 in October. <LCOc1>

Story continues

"They are not a big producer, but have played a big part in (OPEC's) history," one OPEC source said.

It highlights the growing dominance over policy making in the oil market of Saudi Arabia, Russia and the United States, the world's top three oil producers which together account for more than a third of global output.

Riyadh and Moscow have been increasingly deciding output policies together, under pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump on OPEC to bring down prices.

"It could signal a historic turning point of the organization towards Russia, Saudi Arabia and the United States," said Algeria's former energy minister and OPEC chairman, Chakib Khelil, commenting on Qatar's move.

Graphic: Who produces what within OPEC? https://tmsnrt.rs/2RxkhwC

"UNILATERAL DECISIONS"

He said Doha's exit would have a "psychological impact" because of the row with Riyadh and could prove "an example to be followed by other members in the wake of unilateral decisions of Saudi Arabia in the recent past."

Qatar, which Al-Kaabi said had been a member of OPEC for 57 years, has oil output of just 600,000 barrels per day (bpd), compared with Saudi Arabia's 11 million bpd.

But Doha is an influential player in the global LNG market with annual production of 77 million tonnes per year, based on its huge reserves in the Gulf.

Graphic: The world's biggest LNG exporters - https://tmsnrt.rs/2RvFB5zAl-Kaabi, who is heading Qatar's OPEC delegation, said the decision was part of a long-term strategy and the country's plans to develop its gas industry and increase LNG output to 110 million tonnes by 2024.

"I assure you this purely was a decision on what's right for Qatar long term. It's a strategy decision," Al-Kaabi said.

The exit is the latest example of Qatar charting a course away from its Gulf neighbors since the rift began last year. It comes before an annual summit of Gulf Arab states expected to grapple with the roughly 18-month standoff.

Once close partners with Saudi Arabia and the UAE on trade and security, Qatar has struck scores of new trade deals with countries further afield while investing heavily to scale up local food production and ramp up military power.

"There is a sentiment in Qatar that Saudi Arabia's dominance in the region and the region's many institutions has been counterproductive to Qatar," said Andreas Krieg, a political risk analyst at King's College London. "It is about Qatar breaking free as an independent market and state from external interference."

Oil surged about 5 percent on Monday after the United States and China agreed to a 90-day truce in their trade war, but prices remain well off October's peak.

Asked if Qatar's withdrawal would complicate OPEC's decision on output this week, a non-Gulf OPEC source said: "Not really, even if it's a regrettable and sad decision."

Al-Kaabi said state oil company Qatar Petroleum planned to raise its production capability from 4.8 million barrels of oil equivalent per day to 6.5 million barrels in the next decade.

Doha also plans to build the largest ethane cracker in the Middle East and it would still look to expand its oil investments abroad, Al-Kaabi added.

(Additional reporting by Florence Tan in Singapore, Rania El Gamal and Nafisa Eltahir in Dubai, Ahmed Ghaddar in Vienna and Lamine Chikhi in Algiers; Writing by Saeed Azhar and Ghaida Ghantous; Editing by Michael Georgy/Edmund Blair/Alexander Smith)Considering the recent cross-border tension between Russia and Ukraine, Ukraine may seek assistance. Considering Trump administration's recent initiatives, we may conclude that the current U.S. government is willing to do so.

Over the last few days, cross-border tensions between Ukraine and Russia have escalated significantly after Russia fired on three Ukrainian vessels in the Kerch Strait off the Crimean Peninsula on Nov 25. President Putins army seized the vessels, along with its crew members, alleging that those vessels violated Russias territorial waters.

In retaliation, Ukraine has decided to ban Russian men of combat age from entering the country, following the imposition of the nations latest martial law. Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko justified this move, indicating that it was made to prevent the formation of any more Russian-backed separatists groups, such as the ones formed in April 2014 to fight Ukrainian government forces in eastern Ukraine.

How did U.S. React?

The U.S. administration has taken very strong stance against this atrocious action of Russia. In particular, the U.S. Senate strongly condemned the provocative actions in the Kerch Strait against the Ukrainian navy and urged the government of Russia to immediately release all Ukrainian crew members and vessels. United Nations ambassador, Nikki Haley also strongly criticized Russia's outrageous actions against Ukraine and made requests of release. U.S. Senate, President Trump as well as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also condemned Russia's actions in the Black Sea.

U.S.- Ukraine Relation

In December 2017, news released by the Washington Post confirmed that the U.S. State Department approved a commercial license authorizing the export of Model M107A1 Sniper Systems, ammunition, and associated parts and accessories to Ukraine, a sale valued at $41.5 million. This can be marked as the largest U.S. commercial sale of lethal defensive weapons to Ukraine since 2014. In May 2018, Congress approved military assistance worth $250 million to Ukraine in 2019, including lethal weaponry.

In September 2018, Kurt Volker, the U.S. special envoy for Ukraine, indicated that Washington is ready to expand arms supplies to Ukraine, to boost the countrys naval and air defense forces in the face of continuing Russian support for eastern separatists (per the Guardian). Volker also added that in self-defense, Ukraine may seek assistance and considering the Trump administrations recent initiatives, we may conclude that the current U.S. government is willing to do so.

Story continues

Defense Stocks to Keep an Eye on

The U.S. administration has not made any indication so far regarding ramping up sanctions against Russia for its "violation under international law". However, considering the current situation, it is possible that Ukraine may turn to the United States, seeking immediate military assistance in terms of arms supply. In fact, the country has urged NATO to deploy naval ships to the Sea of Azov amid a standoff with Russia.

Therefore, we believe that investors would be better off adding the following defense players to their portfolio. Each of the stocks carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Being prominent missile makers, these companies are expected to be the preferred contractors of the U.S. administration, if Ukraine comes for help, as the adoption of missiles is more common in cross-border clashes.

The Boeing Company BA: This renowned jet maker also manufactures missile defense systems like Ground-Based Midcourse Defense and a family of Laser & Electro-Optical Systems. It also produces the Missile Seeker for PAC-3 missiles.

Raytheon Company RTN: It is a prominent missile maker in the United States. It manufactures a handful of notable missiles like Patriot, ESSM, the AMRAAM air-to-air missile and many more.

Lockheed Martin Corp LMT: This military jet maker manufactures some of the prominent missile defense systems of the United States like THAAD missile, PAC-3 MSE, Aegis Combat System, MEADS and a few more.

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To read this article on Zacks.com click here.- By John Engle





Elon Musk, CEO of electric car company Tesla (TSLA), has spent a long time cultivating his image with the press and the public. These efforts have clearly paid off. While Musk has many cheerleaders in the media, it is reporters connected on technology and popular science beats who seem most besotted with him. To hear some of them tell it, Musk is a new age "blue-eyed child of destiny" fighting to change the world, one industry at a time.





SpaceX, Musk''s private space launch business, has certainly contributed to the reinvigoration of a moribund industry. The company and its celebrity CEO have captured the public's imagination with its ambitious -- and highly publicized -- plans to carry humans to other planets.

But fame can be a double-edged sword. Public attention means publicity when mistakes are made. Musk learned this firsthand following his appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast in September. During the show, the SpaceX CEO was filmed smoking marijuana. This action resulted in an immediate media firestorm . But that was just the beginning.

Let's discuss the fallout from Musk's ill-judged toke, and how such actions could jeopardize the survival of his $25 billion company.

Golden boy of commercial spaceflight

SpaceX is just one of a growing number of contenders for the government's favor. Established aerospace firms such as Boeing (BA) and Lockheed Martin (LMT) have been working to rejuvenate their capabilities in order to capture the juicy rewards of government largesse. At the same time, a host of new companies have emerged. Blue Origin, the brainchild of Amazon Inc. (AMZN) boss Jeff Bezos, is just one well-publicized example of firms aiming to compete head-to-head with SpaceX.

SpaceX had something of a first mover advantage, being the first viable commercial space launch startup to emerge in a long time. For the several years, SpaceX was NASA's golden boy. But it is now clear that the space agency, despite its cozy relationship with Musk and his company, has no intention of letting any private firm flaunt its rules.

Story continues

The podcast fiasco may seem like small potatoes in the grand scheme of things, but a company that subsists almost exclusively on government contracts cannot afford to bite the hand that feeds.

Rules are for everyone

It seems like everyone has an opinion when it comes to the legalization of cannabis. But our opinion, or that of the American public, matters little in this particular context. What matters is the strict rules governing federal contractors, which state that contractors must observe the same drug policies as apply to federal employees. That means no smoking pot -- especially when cameras are rolling.

The Air Force reportedly opened a probe within days of the podcast incident. NASA was slower to react and seemed at first to be extremely reticent about going after one of its important contractors. For a while it appeared that the agency's higher-ups might try to let the whole affair slide. This opinion was reinforced when NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine publicly lauded SpaceX on Twitter , just days after Musk's Joe Rogan faux pas:





"Our partnership with @SpaceX is crucial for our return to launching American astronauts from American soil on American rockets. I'm looking forward to SpaceX's first @Commercial_Crew launch next year!"







NASA takes a belated stand

While it seemed NASA might be hoping for the controversy to blow over, the agency did eventually act, announcing a far-reaching safety review of SpaceX on Nov. 20. The review will also involve Boeing, the other company contracted to transport astronauts to the International Space Station.

While ostensibly a review of all safety aspects of this business, a NASA spokesman made it clear that the recent controversy was the proximate cause , stating that the review would "ensure the companies are meeting NASA's requirements for workplace safety, including the adherence to a drug-free environment."

At first, it was unclear as to who was responsible for galvanizing a meaningful aggressive response from NASA. Administrator Bridenstine seemed an unlikely prime mover, given his apparent desire to give Musk a pass. Other influential power centers in the federal government were mooted as possible sources. It was even suggested that the push might have come from mid-level employees disturbed by the potential of setting a precedent of double-standards for influential and famous contractors.

Bridenstine stands up

Surprisingly enough, it now appears that Administrator Bridenstine was indeed responsible for launching the review. The NASA administrator came out strongly on Nov. 29 to explain his decision, citing Musk's recent behavior explicitly:





"I will tell you that was not helpful, and that did not inspire confidence, and the leaders of these organizations need to take that as an example of what to do when you lead an organization that's going to launch American astronauts. I will tell you, he [Musk] is as committed to safety as anybody, and he understands that that was not appropriate behavior, and you won't be seeing that again."







While still expressing confidence in, and admiration for, Musk and SpaceX, Bridenstine clearly understands the responsibility of his office to uphold the rules.

Competition gets fiercer

The forthcoming comprehensive safety review will begin in the new year and promises to be highly rigorous, perhaps even invasive. But it may not be the only consequence SpaceX will suffer for the folly of its CEO.

As part of a broader federal effort to promote a viable commercial space industry, NASA is cultivating serious competition for big contracts. SpaceX's easiest days are behind it, thanks to the growing horde of hungry competitors eager for a spot at the government trough.

Elbows are liable to get a lot sharper over the next couple years and SpaceX cannot rely on its established relationship with NASA to protect it. The company can ill afford further incidents like Musk's Joe Rogan appearance.

Since October, two big government space contract were announced. Notably absent from both contracts: SpaceX.

Frozen out by the Air Force

Both contracts included big financial awards. The first, awarded on Oct. 10, was for the development of the Air Force's Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle, or EELV. While SpaceX was viewed as the frontrunner in advance of the award announcement, it ended up getting nothing. Instead, the Air Force opted to partner with the United Launch Alliance, Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems, and Blue Origin, awarding them $967 million, $792 million, and $500 million, respectively.

But SpaceX is not be completely bereft. According to an Air Force spokesman, Musk's company will be able to compete for the role of final developer of the EELV:





"Beyond the offerors selected for award, the Air Force cannot comment on specific offeror's proposal or whether the Air Force chose not to award to a specific company. It is important to note that SpaceX is a valuable partner to the launch service community and the Phase 2 solicitation will be a full and open competition for all launch providers who have a low-risk proposal to achieve Air Force certification prior to initial launch."







While SpaceX still has a shot at the EELV when it comes to a final bid, it is not a great sign to be left on the sideline at this stage of development. While the Air Force has made no comment as to whether the decision was made in response to Musk's ill-advised podcast appearance, it is not hard to imagine that it influenced the decision to a degree.

Jilted on the way to the Moon

Last month, SpaceX was once again absent from the list of participants in a lucrative government space contract. This time was doubly surprising, given that the awarder was NASA.

NASA announced that contracts worth up to $2.6 billion over 10 years, had been divvied up between nine companies that will be developing the Commercial Lunar Payload Services program that aims to send unmanned landers and transport craft to the Moon's surface. The list of awardees included established NASA contractors, as well as a few young and promising space startups:

Astrobotic Technology

Deep Space Systems

Draper

Firefly Aerospace

Intuitive Machines

Lockheed Martin

Masten Space Systems

Moon Express

Orbit Beyond







SpaceX is no stranger to this particular challenge. Indeed, it is currently supporting SpaceIL, an Israeli company that plans to send a robotic lander to the moon early next year. Yet, while SpaceX may get to the Moon by other means, not participating in this stage of NASA's program may prove problematic for it down the line. This is because the $2.6 billion moon lander contract is part of NASA's Moon to Mars Program. While SpaceX is still a major player in NASA's manned spacecraft development program, competition to lead humanity from the Moon to Mars -- a primary component of SpaceX's mission -- is liable to get increasingly fierce in the next couple years.

Verdict

SpaceX has a number of remarkable achievements to its name. While it enjoyed an open field for a few years, while established aerospace giants recalibrated to a new competitive reality, the company is faced with an ever growing cast of competitors. The old school aerospace industry is back in action, investing heavily in rebuilding its old technological moat. At the same time, an explosion of new players, some of which clearly aim to make a play for the spaceflight crown, is imperilling SpaceX's current position. A proliferation of reliable launch platforms would certainly cause satellite launch prices to fall even further.

In light of all this, SpaceX cannot afford to lose focus or to alienate the federal government, which could be called something akin to the space industry's monopsonistic buyer. Musk's behavior on The Joe Rogan Experience was intolerable for the CEO of a company that lives and dies by federal contract. Obviously, SpaceX was going to survive that leadership crisis, but it can ill afford another similar incident.

Disclosure: Short Tesla via long-dated put options.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.





TOTAL S.A. TOT announced that its 50/50 joint venture, Hanwha Total Petrochemical, with Hanwha will invest $500 million in Daesan integrated refining and petrochemical complex in South Korea.



The investment in this complex will increase polypropylene capacity by nearly 60% to 1.1 million tons per year by the end of 2020. Simultaneously, ethylene capacity will also increase 10% to 1.5 million tons. The increase in production volumes will allow the company to meet local demand and supply the fast-growing Asian market.



Rising Usage of Polypropylene



Polypropylene is being widely utilized in different industries across the globe, due to its lightweight nature and high performance. Per a Zion Market Research report, the Polypropylene global market is expected to improve at a 6% CAGR between 2018 and 2024. The report also indicates that the total global market of Polypropylene is expected to touch $1.61 billion in 2024, with the increasing usage of polypropylene in automotive and packaging industries.



The demand for polypropylene is also showing an improvement in the Asian countries. Hence, TOTALs decision to improve the production of polypropylene is a very well thought-out move by the company.



Petrochemical Strategy



TOTAL continues to focus and expand its presence in the petrochemical space. In this regard, it has launched a major project in Saudi Arabia with Saudi Aramco.



The company has decided to improve Polyethylene production capacity in the United States through its JV, Bayport Polymers, LLC. (Read more: TOTAL to Increase Polyethylene Production Capacity in US)



TOTALs decision to expand its petrochemical operation will help to diversify its presence in the global petrochemical market, which already has key players like Exxon Mobil Corp XOM and Royal Dutch Shell plc RDS.A.



Price Movement



Year to date, shares of the company have gained nearly 0.6% against its industry's decline of 5.7%.





Zacks Rank and A Key Pick



TOTAL currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). A better-ranked stock from the same industry is Premier Oil PLC PMOIY, carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see tthe complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Story continues

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Zacks Investment ResearchChinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump put their trade war on pause momentarily, striking an agreement to hold off on slapping additional tariffs on each other's goods for 90 days.

The agreement was a "non-escalation rather than a ceasefire," said Paul Kitney, chief equity strategist of Asia Pacific research at Daiwa Capital Markets.

That means China's continued economic growth is still set to be impacted by the U.S. tariffs.

China President Xi Jinping and United States President Donald Trump may have agreed to put their bilateral trade war on pause , but that move is merely a "non-escalation rather than a ceasefire" between two of the world's largest economies, according to one strategist.

The agreement between the world leaders over dinner at the G-20 summit in Argentina does not address existing tariffs already set in motion, and that means continued pressure on China's economic growth, said Paul Kitney, chief equity strategist of Asia Pacific research at Daiwa Capital Markets.

The U.S. agreed to leave tariffs on more than $200 billion worth of Chinese products at 10 percent. If after 90 days the two countries are unable to reach an agreement, that rate will be raised to 25 percent, according to the White House. Trade negotiations will address forced technology transfer and intellectual property.

Until now, Washington had threatened to more than double the tariffs it has already slapped on $250 billion worth of Chinese imports, while Beijing has put targeted tariffs on $110 billion in U.S. goods.

"We still have tariffs imposed on a, you know, very large quantum, the impact of another three months of 10 percent tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods ... equates to around 0.2, 0.3 percentage points of GDP in China," Kitney told CNBC on Monday.

The continuation of such tariffs could bring "real economic consequences" to China, he said.

Chinese economic data releases have shown slowing growth and experts have pointed to Sino-American trade tensions and domestic challenges as possible causes. China's economic expansion slowed more than expected to the weakest pace since the first quarter of 2009, according to official data released in October this year .

Story continues

China said its economy grew 6.5 percent year-over-year in the third quarter of 2018. That missed expectations for a 6.6 percent growth, according to analysts polled by Reuters.

"There does need to be some sort of resolution on here to get any sort of real economic relief," Kitney said.

WATCH: Is China's growth story over?

- CNBC's John Melloy, Huileng Tan, Yen Nee Lee, Kevin Breuninger and Javier E. David contributed to this article





More From CNBC

* Unilever sees double-digit growth prospects for business

* Beats off competition from Nestle and Coca-Cola

* To pay 3.3 billion euros in cash and shares in India unit (Adds segment performance, background)

By Ben Hirschler

LONDON, Dec 3 (Reuters) - Unilever is to buy GlaxoSmithKline's Horlicks nutrition business for $3.8 billion, boosting the Anglo-Dutch group's position in India by adding the popular malted drink.

The deal, announced on Monday, increases the consumer goods giant's reach in one of the world's fastest-growing economies and marks a notable addition to the portfolio by outgoing Chief Executive Paul Polman, who steps down in January.

Even though many of Unilever's recent acquisitions have focused on beauty and personal care products, buying Horlicks is a rare opportunity for Unilever to increase its scale in India, particularly in food and drinks.

For GSK boss Emma Walmsley, it is a chance to further streamline operations and generate cash for increased investment in pharmaceuticals. A few hours later, GSK announced it had agreed to buy U.S. cancer drug specialist Tesaro for $5.1 billion, marking a major biotech investment by the drugmaker.

The Horlicks deal follows a competitive auction in which Unilever saw off rival Nestle, as well as earlier interest from Coca-Cola.

The transaction covers GSK's health food and drinks portfolio in India, Bangladesh and 20 other predominantly Asian markets. The business has annual sales of around 550 million euros, primarily through the malt-based Horlicks and Boost brands.

Horlicks comfortably dominates the health-drinks market in India and Unilever is expected to try to give it a fresh lease of life, following a slowdown in recent years as urban Indian consumers turn to healthier, less-sugary alternatives.

Bernstein analysts have said the business's growth slowed from 15 percent to 4 percent between 2013 and 2017, leading to lost market share, though management has indicated that performance has started to pick up in recent quarters.

Story continues

Srinivas Phatak, finance head of Unilever's Indian unit, told reporters on Monday he expected the business to grow at a double-digit percentage rate in the medium term, boosting both earnings and profit margins. That would be well beyond Unilever's overall sales growth, this year forecast at the bottom end of a 3-5 percent range.

"Growth has been a challenge in the recent periods," Liberum analyst Robert Waldschmidt said. "They're clearly expanding their emerging market footprint further and buying growth."

Unilever will seek to leverage its formidable distribution network to boost sales of Horlicks in smaller cities and rural areas.

The price is broadly in line with expectations. People familiar with the process had told Reuters it was likely to be sold for less than $4 billion.

INDIAN MARKET

GSK's decision to sell the business follows its $13 billion acquisition of Novartis's stake in the two groups' consumer health joint venture this year. GSK said at the time that selling Horlicks could support the funding of the Novartis buyout.

The main asset being sold is GSK's 72.5 percent stake in Indian-listed GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare.

Unilever said its 3.3 billion euros ($3.75 billion) consideration would be paid in cash and shares in its subsidiary in India, Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL).

Shares in both Indian companies rose more than 4 percent on Monday, highlighting a "win-win" deal for both sides, according to Anand Shah, senior vice-president, consumer at Axis Capital.

"GSK's portfolio gives HUL a strong foothold in foods and beverages, a space which it has been clearly lagging," he said.

It also gives the company greater access to India's middle-class parents who increasingly have more discretionary wealth and are willing to pay a premium for children's products.

But it may need to refresh Horlicks' traditional brand image and slogan, which promises that the drink makes children "Taller, Stronger, Sharper," marketing and brand experts said.

GSK said its net proceeds from the sale, after tax and hedging costs, were expected to be around 2.4 billion pounds ($3.1 billion).

Following the closure of the deal, which is expected in around 12 months, GSK will own approximately 5.7 percent of HUL and the British drugmaker intends to sell this down in tranches.

As part of the agreement, HUL will also distribute GSKs over-the-counter and oral health brands for an initial period of five years.

The deal comes a day before Unilever hosts a two-day investor event in Mumbai.

GSK was advised by Morgan Stanley and Greenhill, while BofA Merrill Lynch worked with Unilever.

(Additional reporting by Martinne Geller in London, Tanvi Mehta, Noor Zainab Hussain and Sayantani Ghosh in Bengaluru and Rahul Singh in New Delhi Additional reporting by Martinne Geller in London Editing by Keith Weir and Edmund Blair)The topic of marijuana stocks seems to have entered the mainstream in 2018, with chatter about these stocks popping up much more frequently among individual investors this year than in the past.

Below are four key (and somewhat overlapping) reasons many investors are talking about marijuana stocks -- and one notable reason the topic of hemp stocks should soon be crossing many more investors' lips.

Marijuana leaf with a hazy blue and orange background of a body of water and a sunrise or sunset.

Image source: Getty Images.

1. Strong recent performance of many marijuana stocks

There's nothing that attracts investor attention to a particular stock or group of stocks more than powerful performance. As the following one-year chart shows, many marijuana stocks went ballistic in late summer in advance of Canada's legalization of marijuana for adult recreational use -- a topic we'll get to in a moment -- though most of the group has pulled back since then.

CGC Chart

Data by YCharts.

Over the last year, for instance, Canadian marijuana growers Canopy Growth (NYSE: CGC), which is the largest marijuana stock by market cap and worth watching, and Cronos Group are up 148% and 192%, respectively. Shares of Canadian grower Tilray, the second-largest marijuana stock by market cap, have gained 344% since the company began trading on a U.S. stock exchange in July.

2. Torrid marijuana market growth projections

Growth projections for the burgeoning legal global marijuana market vary by source, but it seems universally predicted that this space will experience torrid growth.

Chart showing 2017 worldwide marijuana sales at $9.5 billion and expected to grow to $32 billion in 2022.

Data source: ArcView Market Research and BDS Analytics. Chart by author.

ArcView Market Research and BDS Analytics project the market to grow from $9.5 billion in 2017 to $32 billion in 2022. That's a 27.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR).

3. Canada's legalization of recreational marijuana

One big reason the topic of marijuana stocks has exploded onto the scene in 2018 stems from Canada's legalization of adult recreational use of cannabis on Oct. 17. This historic event made our neighbor to the north the first industrialized country where recreational marijuana use is legal across the land and only the second country (behind Uruguay) in the world where this is so. Once the recreational market is up to speed, it's projected to be worth $5 billion per year or more.

Story continues

Only dried flower and cannabis oils became legal in October. Other products, such as cannabis-infused beverages, edibles, and other consumer products, are expected to get the green light from Canada next year.

4. U.S. marijuana legalization momentum

Canada is garnering much attention, but the big prize is the U.S. market. This country's legal marijuana market size was pegged at $8.5 billion in 2017 -- or 89% of the total global market -- by ArcView Market Research and BDS Analytics. While that percentage is projected to shrink as legalization gains momentum around the globe, the U.S. market still will account for a large portion of 2022's projected legal global marijuana revenue, according to the same source. The U.S. cannabis market will grow at a CAGR of 22% over the next five years, to $23.4 billion, according to ArcView and BDS.

The marijuana legalization movement in the U.S. gained speed in 2018. Notably, on Jan. 1, California -- which in 1996 became the first state to give the green thumbs up to medical marijuana -- legalized cannabis for recreational use. This move has huge financial implications since the Golden State has the fifth-largest economy in the world.

More recently, in November's midterm elections, voters in Missouri and Utah gave the green light to marijuana for treating medical conditions, and folks in Michigan voted to legalize cannabis for recreational use. There are now 32 states where medical marijuana is (or soon will be) legal, and 11 states plus Washington, D.C where recreational use won't (or soon won't) run afoul of the law.

Cannabis plant on right side and "CBD" written on left side with its molecular formula underneath it.

Images source: Getty Images.

5. U.S. hemp-derived CBD market on verge of exploding in size

On Wednesday, leaders of the U.S. Senate and House agricultural committees reached a tentative agreement on the 2018 Farm Bill, according to the Washington Post. This legislation has huge implications for the cannabis industry because there are provisions in it that would make it legal across the U.S. to grow industrial hemp -- and cannabidiol (CBD) can be derived from hemp.

CBD is a chemical substance found in the cannabis species -- both marijuana and hemp -- which has various wellness benefits associated with it. The key difference between marijuana and hemp is that hemp has negligible concentrations of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the substance in marijuana that's responsible for its psychotropic effects.

If the bill makes it through Congress and is signed by President Trump, as widely expected, industrial hemp should be legal on Jan. 1, 2019. If this occurs, the U.S. market for hemp -- and its derivatives -- is expected to soar. The hemp-derived CBD market is projected to rocket from about $591 million this year to $22 billion by 2022, according to the Brightfield Group. That's a whopping 37-fold increase in just four years!

Canopy Growth is a company to watch in the hemp space. It's been positioning itself to hit the ground running when the farm bill passes. Once hemp is legal on a federal level in the U.S., Canopy will be able to enter the U.S. market with CBD products derived from hemp.

More From The Motley Fool

Beth McKenna 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.KABUL, Potential contenders for Afghanistans presidency are working overtime to win support as the countrys presidential field takes shape.

With the April 20 presidential vote still months away, some candidates have announced their intention to run for the presidency while others are jockeying hard to form the most formidable coalition or come up with a strong ticket.

Afghanistans incumbent President Ashraf Ghani is widely expected to seek a second term. But it is not clear whether he will be able to gather a formidable and diverse coalition similar to the one he put together in 2014.

Many of his key former confidants have embarked on a new political course.

Mohammad Hanif Atmar, Ghanis former powerful national security adviser, is one of the first to announce his decision to run for the presidency as Kabul grapples with rising Taliban violence and a U.S. push for swift peace negotiations between the insurgents and the Afghan government.

We are in negotiations with the various [political] currents in the country and, God willing, we will join the electoral contest with a truly national and trustworthy team, his spokesman, Tawab Ghorzang, told Radio Free Afghanistan on November 30. Our aim is to make sure that all political movements and our diverse population can feel that they are represented on the presidential ticket.

In Afghanistans presidential republic, the president heads the executive branch of the government and is elected for a five-year term. Two vice presidents are part of the presidential ticket and follow the president in the line of succession.

To attract support from Afghanistans diverse population, most presidential contenders have put together multiethnic tickets since the first presidential election in 2004. Atmars confidants hope that ethnic Tajik leader Younus Qanuni and Hazara leader and current second deputy of Afghan chief executive Mohammad Mohaqiq will share his ticket.

Radio Free Afghanistan couldnt reach Qanuni or Mohaqiq for immediate comment. But Ismail Khan, a former minister and senior leader of Qanunis Jamiat-e Islami, says the two leaders have not yet decided to join Atmar.

Khan told Radio Free Afghanistan that Jamiat-e Islami and Mohaqiqs Hizbi Wahdat-e Islami are part of the Grand National Coalition of Afghanistan, which also includes Vice President Abdul Rashid Dostums Junbish-e Milli Islami.

If Jamiat-e Islami fails to reach an agreement to support a single candidate with other parties of the Grand National Coalition of Afghanistan and fails to unite with another presidential contender, then our party will announce its own candidate, he said. So far, we are of the view that we should support a joint candidate from within the Grand National Coalition of Afghanistan. As far as I know, Qanuni and Mohaqiq have not decided on a course separate from the coalition.

It is still not clear whether Afghan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah, a key leader of Jamiat-e Islami, will be running.

Omid Maisam, a spokesman for Abdullah, says the chief executive is still engaged in wide-ranging consultations before deciding on his future political direction.

Other major political players are also still undecided. The reconciliation of Hizb-e-Islami leader Gulbuddin Hikmatyar this year might change the dynamics of the Afghan presidential election. As one of the countrys largest political organizations, Hizb-e Islami has yet to announce its decision.

Hashmatullah Arshad, a spokesman for Hizb-e Islami, says they will announce their course soon. We are engaged in some serious consultations and hope to announce our candidate or declare our support for one within the next week, he told Radio Free Afghanistan on November 30.

Many former officials, however, have been touting their credentials for a long time. Mohammad Omar Daudzai, a former minister and chief of staff for former Afghan President Hamid Karzai, is expected to contest the 2019 presidential polls.

His spokesman, Sayed Maisam Ehsani, says they are engaged in consultations with various political parties and personalities to put together a strong election for a Daudzai ticket.

Abubakar Siddique wrote this story based on reporting by Radio Free Afghanistan correspondents Nusrat Parsa and Najia Safi from Kabul, Afghanistan.On November 22-23, Uzbekistan hosted the Asian Forum on Human Rights in the city of Samarkand.

It was a sign of how Uzbekistan is trying to change its image since President Shavkat Mirziyoev came to power at the end of 2016. Prior to that, Uzbekistan was considered a rights abuser, not a host nation for a rights conference.

RFE/RL's media relations manager, Muhammad Tahir, moderated a discussion on the conference -- and what it did and did not do to help change Uzbekistans dismal international image.

Two people who attended the forum were on the podcast this week: Brigitte Dufour, the president of the Brussels-based International Partnership for Human Rights, and longtime Majlis friend Steve Swerdlow, the researcher for Central Asia at Human Rights Watch.

Alisher Ilkhamov from the London-based School of Oriental and African Studies also took part in the discussion.

As usual, I had a few things to say also.

Listen to the podcast above or subscribe to the Majlis on iTunes.Pakistan says U.S. President Donald Trump has written a letter to Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan to ask for help with Afghan peace talks.

Pakistani Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said on December 3 that President Trump has asked for Pakistans cooperation to bring the Taliban into talks.

Chaudhry said Trump's letter asked Pakistan to play a role in peace talks seeking to end the 17-year war in Afghanistan.

There was no immediate confirmation from the White House about Trump writing such a letter, which would be the first direct communication between the two leaders since Imran Khan came into power in August.

The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad also would not comment on Chaudhry's announcement.

Trump has consistently criticized Pakistan since he launched his South Asia and Afghanistan strategy, despite attempts by the two governments to fix problems that have damaged their relations.

In November, Trump said in an interview that Pakistan doesn't "do a damn thing" for the United States, despite billions of dollars in U.S. aid.

He also charged that Pakistani officials knew of former Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden's location in Abbottabad, Pakistan, before he was killed there in 2011 during a raid by U.S. special forces.

The Taliban has refused to deal directly with Afghanistans government, saying they would negotiate only with the United States.

The militants have also said NATO forces must withdraw from Afghanistan before negotiations can begin.

U.S. diplomats in the past week have called for the Taliban to seize a moment of opportunity to begin formal peace talks with the Western-backed Afghan government and negotiate a settlement to end the fighting.

Zalmay Khalilzad, an Afghan-born former U.S. ambassador to Kabul and Iraq, was appointed in September to the U.S. State Department team that is pushing for reconciliation efforts and peace talks with the Taliban.

Khalilzad, who has held several rounds of preliminary talks with Taliban officials in Qatar, told reporters in Kabul in November that he was optimistic a peace deal with the militants could be reached before Afghanistans next presidential election in April 2019.

Although contacts have started between Khalilzad and Taliban representatives, there has been no pause in fighting.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said last week that his government had formed a 12-member team to negotiate peace with the Taliban. But he warned that implementation of any deal would take at least five years.

He also said any deal must meet certain conditions, including respecting the constitutional rights of women.

With reporting by Reuters, AP, Dawn.com, AFP, and dpaA top commander of the Afghan Taliban has been killed in the southern province of Helmand.

Provincial Governor Mohammad Yasin Khan told RFE/RL that Mullah Abdulmanan was killed along with four other militants in an air strike in the Nawzad district on December 1.

Mullah Abdulmanan was in charge of Helmand Province for the militants group.

His death was confirmed by Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid and by the U.S. military.

"They're going to have trouble intensifying the fight when their fighters and leaders are under constant assault, Colonel Dave Butler, spokesman for U.S. Forces in Afghanistan, said in an e-mailed statement.

Talks to end the 17-year war in Afghanistan are the only solution," Butler added.

Mullah Abdulmanan "was the most senior Taliban commander in the south and his death will have an overall impact on security," a senior security official in Kabul was quoted as saying.

Taliban fighters increased their control over Helmand Province in the years following the withdrawal of most NATO combat troops in 2014.

Last month, U.S. special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad held talks with the Taliban in Qatar as the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump stepped up efforts to settle the Afghan conflict.

The militants have long refused U.S. demands to directly negotiate with the Western-backed government in Kabul, which has struggled to counter attacks from the militant group since 2014.

With reporting by ReutersUkrainian border guards patrol an area Sunday along the Ukrainian side of the Ukraine-Russia border in Milove town, eastern Ukraine.State and local officials are begging Congress and federal agencies to spend more money to halt an alarming rise in sexually transmitted diseases, which have climbed steadily in Colorado and elsewhere over recent years.

We are basically all expressing the same concern and expressing the need for urgent action, said Dr. Nate Smith, president-elect for the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials. This is something that is not going to go away on its own.

More than 2.3 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis were reported in 2017, say preliminary data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Thats nearly a 9 percent increase from 2016 and a higher rate than those reported in other developed nations.

Even more worrisome, syphilis last year caused nearly 1,000 babies to be born with deformities or severe health problems  a 20-year high and a doubling in four years. If untreated, chlamydia and gonorrhea can make women sterile.

Colorado chlamydia rates increased steadily from 2007 to 2016, with two dips in 2010 and 2013, reported the state Department of Public Health and Environment.

As of 2016, the most recent year with available data, 25,569 chlamydia cases were reported in the state. Thats a rate of 461.7 cases per 100,000 people, compared with 497.3 per 100,000 people nationwide that year.

By county, Colorado chlamydia case rates are highest in Denver  908.7 cases per 100,000. El Paso, Adams and Arapahoe counties are among seven others with chlamydia rates higher than 500 per 100,000 people.

Gonorrhea and syphilis rates also have increased in Colorado in recent years. Denver has the highest gonorrhea and second-highest syphilis rates.

We know what we have to do to respond, Daniel Shodell, deputy director for disease control at the CDPHE, told The Gazette in May.

And were really focused on testing, treating and encouraging people to protect themselves.

Dr. Chris Nevin-Woods, medical director for El Paso County Public Health, has said public health funding to address STDs has not kept up with the outbreak.

Over the past 15 years, the purchasing power of federal funding devoted to fighting STDs, which goes to state and local public health programs, has fallen by 40 percent. But because STDs have risen so dramatically so quickly, officials say its time to invest more federal money to fight it.

The National Coalition of STD Directors has asked for a $70 million annual increase in STD prevention and treatment and for the Trump administration to come up with a federal plan to coordinate the work of health agencies.

The group also would like the administration to declare a public health emergency for STDs, as it did for opioids. Such a designation would free federal funds that help officials respond faster.

The money would go to STD clinics, to protect babies from syphilis effects and to combat drug-resistant gonorrhea, which can lead to long hospital stays, disability or death. The CDC estimates STDs cost the U.S. $16 billion a year.

Smith, who is also director of the Arkansas health department, said with more money, his state would hire more health-care workers who reach out to sexual partners of infected people and bring STD testing and education to vulnerable communities. Such interactions help people get treated and talk about protection, he said.

State and local officials are meeting with top federal health officials regularly and have found discussions encouraging, said David Harvey, executive director of the National Coalition of STD Directors.

Before 2013, STDs were on the decline. Now even more common STDs, including herpes and human papillomavirus, which can lead to cervical cancer, arent tracked by the federal government. HIV rates are reported separately.

More people are using drugs to prevent HIV transmission, and more women are using long-term contraceptives. But condom use appears to be falling by the wayside, raising STD rates.

Gonorrhea diagnoses increased by 67 percent from 2013 to 2017, nearly doubling among men and increasing by nearly a fifth among women, the CDC reports. Syphilis diagnoses nearly doubled, mostly among men who have sex with men. Chlamydia was the most common condition reported to the CDC in 2017, accounting for 1.7 million diagnoses.

This is the continuation of a persistent and troubling trend, said Kyle Bernstein, chief of the Epidemiology and Statistics Branch in the CDCs Division of STD preventionl.

Some politicians are taking note. U.S. Sen. Patty Murray of Washington state, top Democrat on the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, wrote to to Surgeon General Jerome Adams in October, saying: I write to ask that you take immediate action to raise public awareness of the problem and engage all relevant federal agencies in taking evidence-based steps to address the problem, with particular focus on prevention amongst populations most at risk of contracting STDs.

Ahead of budget deliberations this year, 10 Democratic senators and 36 Democratic representatives asked their appropriations leaders for more money to fight STDs. They didnt get it, but Harvey said advocates hope the money will be in President Trumps budget request in February. The federal government now spends about $157 million a year to fight STDs.

Experts say the 2.1 million people addicted to opioids, such as heroin and prescription painkillers, contribute to the rise in STD rates, because people are trading sex for drugs.

Meanwhile, the Food and Drug Administration has rolled out a few proposals to deal with drug-resistant bacteria. The CDC has urged doctors to test women for syphilis not only when they learn they are pregnant, but also a couple of times throughout their pregnancies.

The opioid crisis, which claimed 40,000 lives last year, and other public health issues such as obesity and nicotine addiction have pushed the STD surge into the shadows, Smith said.

If you look at the numbers, its really pretty bad You cant look at that kind of increase for any transmissible disease and not be very, very alarmed, he said.

Colorado Politics contributed to this story.It was a great ride.

Actually, it was a great walk. Or run. Or occasionally an all-out sprint. That all depended on me, because he always wanted to go. And go he did, legs churning and tail wagging.

Nothing could slow him, or so it seemed. But in recent months, the legs that were so reliable started to fail. That tail that appeared to supply propulsion to his gait now often fell limp. And while his will remained strong, his body betrayed him.

I said a tearful goodbye to my dog last week after more than 14 wonderful years.

He was my reliable companion on mountains big and small, the best hiking partner a guy could want. He was a regular at Section 16, Waldo Canyon and Fountain Creek Regional Park. He happily, and easily embraced the challenge of the Manitou Incline in the years before the trail became legal. (In fairness, he had no knowledge of his trespassing, and his owner pleads the fifth).

He made multiple treks up Elbert, Massive, Harvard, Yale, Grays, Torreys and Americas Mountain. In all, he bagged nearly 30 fourteeners. And the summits were a special place for him; not because of the awe-inspiring views but because of what was waiting in the backpack. Pringles, crackers, trail mix and the last bites of a PB&J.

Any time of day. Any type of climb. And any conditions. Cheyenne was always by my side.

We had a sunny November morning to ourselves outside Alma, and we trudged through the snow on a loop that included Mounts Democrat, Lincoln and Bross. Joined by my brother on a July afternoon, we descended Mount Massive in pouring rain with thunder rumbling overhead. Any idea of running back to the trailhead was dampened by the fact that we had hiked Mount Elbert that morning. (Im not sure my dog forgave me for that day, even though Im pretty sure he knew my brother was to blame.)

I adopted Cheyenne as a puppy in July 2004 from the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region. The good folks at the rescue almost didnt let me take him home after I refused to guarantee he would live under my roof. Id never had a dog stay inside the house, so the idea seemed strange to me. But I did promise to love him and care for him.

Turns out, Cheyenne never spent a night outside unless it was curled up under a blanket at the end of my oversized cot. He seemed to enjoy camping. (Admittedly, trading dry dog food for grilled meat might have had something to do with that.) And, selfishly, he did keep my feet nice and toasty on cool summer evenings outside Aspen, Buena Vista and Estes Park.

He supplied much more than warmth, however. He brought smiles, laughter, inspiration and loads of memories that wont soon fade. (Seriously, buddy, did you really devour 2 pounds of peanut butter sandwich cookies?! And its still hard to fathom how you, as a puppy, peed on my uncles face.)

He was one very special dog. And hiking Colorados trails just wont be the same without him.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.Mark Hillman was elected to the Colorado State Senate in 1998. He served as Majority Leader from 2003 to 2004 and Minority Leader in 2005 before serving as State Treasurer from 2005 to 2006. To read more about how UAV votes were calculated, go to www.MarkHillman.com.The leaders of Fort Carsons 4th Infantry Division boarded a plane Sunday night for Afghanistan, where they will lead the fighting in Americas longest war.

Maj. Gen. Randy George, the divisions commander, will be the top operations officer in Afghanistan, managing Americas war effort on a day-to-day basis. Its Georges fifth deployment overseas since 9/11.

We have been training hard, and we are ready for this mission, George said in brief remarks to his staff before heading into a C-17 cargo jet.

George was a colonel in 2009 when he led Fort Carsons 4th Brigade Combat Team on a yearlong tour in Afghanistan. That deployment saw his soldiers fight in the legendary battle of Combat Outpost Keating. Eight men died, and two survivors of the battle were awarded the Medal of Honor, the nations highest decoration for battlefield valor.

Being overseas for the holidays is nothing out of the ordinary for George.

Its probably harder on the families, he said. Once we get over there, we get focused on the mission, and its another day.

George takes over command in Afghanistan as America again battles a resurgent Taliban, which has launched a rare fall offensive in recent days that has killed four U.S. troops in two weeks.

To prepare for the battle, George has met with U.S. and North Atlantic Treaty Organization leaders amid months of careful study of the state of the war.

George had no great proclamations of plans or strategies, but hes eager to get started.

We are anxious to get over there, he said.

George is headed over with another experienced Afghanistan hand, Command Sgt. Maj. T.J. Holland, the divisions top enlisted soldier.

Holland said experience is good but can also be deceiving in the ever-changing battlefields of Afghanistan.

Its a complex, new environment now, Holland said.

Th U.S. spent years working to destroy the Taliban insurgency that now grips significant portions of the Afghanistan countryside. Now, the push is on to broker a peace deal between Taliban fighters and the government in Kabul.

The peace talks have been marked by periodic ceasefires interrupted with flurries of fighting. In recent days, the U.S, has stepped up airstrikes against Taliban targets in an effort that some say could spur peace talks.

George will have familiar forces at hand when he arrives overseas  Fort Carsons 1st Brigade Combat Team is in Afghanistan.

The deployment of George and his headquarters troops is the latest in a series for Fort Carson.

Its been very busy, George said.

As they prepared to board a plane, the last elements of the posts 2nd Brigade Combat Team was returning from nine months in Afghanistan.

The posts 4th Combat Aviation Brigade is deployed, too, with its helicopters split between Europe and the Middle East.

The posts 3rd Brigade Combat Team is preparing for duty in Kuwait next year. The post also has dozens of soldiers at the U.S.-Mexico border as part of President Donald Trumps decision to use the military to keep a caravan of immigrants and asylum seekers from Central America from entering the country.

Georges last pep talk to his troops was a brief one, with a businesslike ending.

OK, lets load up, George said.

Contact Tom Roeder: 636-0240 Twitter: @xroederxMore information

The South Canon trail system near Canon City is good for year-round hiking and biking. For more information, visit joinfar.org.

To comment on the BLM's review of a gas and oil lease sale involving portions of the system, go to the agency's eplanning site and follow instructions: https://eplanning.blm.gov/epl-front-office/eplanning/planAndProjectSite.do?methodName=renderDefaultPlanOrProjectSite&projectId=115103&dctmId=0b0003e88121ae05Empty milk refrigerators are shown at a grocery store Sunday in Anchorage, Alaska, two days after a magnitude 7.0 earthquake was centered about 7 miles north of the city. Anchorage officials urged residents not to stock up and hoard supplies because the supply chain of goods was not interrupted.You have permission to edit this article.

Edit Close(FORNEBU, NORWAY / SINGAPORE, 03 December 2018) - Seven technology trends stand to reshape how we consume, how we connect and even how we perceive the world around us in 2019, says Telenor Research.

After a breakneck year of tech world advancements, setbacks and successes, Telenor Group's research arm, Telenor Research, identifies seven tech trends to study up on for 2019. While there is no shortage of staggering high-tech feats identified for the coming year, the notion of "responsibility" resonates through many of 2019's trends.

"The world of technology is constantly on the go. With exciting innovation - which we point to for next year in greater scale than ever - comes the need for reflection, pragmatism and perspective. We think that the tech pendulum is swinging in that direction in 2019. People are taking a step back and assessing 'what do these deeper developments in technology and connectivity mean to me, to my family, my community?'" reflects Bjrn Taale Sandberg, Head of Telenor Research.

"In the end, we all want the assurance that technology - no matter how many steps ahead of us it might seem - can fit into our lives safely, sensibly and positively," he added.

Here are the seven tech trends we see making a big impact in 2019:

DEEPFAKE: TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE?

Masks, shades and filters have been all the rage on social media and messaging apps. The iPhone X took the idea further with facial recognition, but as the technology makes even more advances, why stop there? Remember Tom Cruise's masks in Mission Impossible? Well, doing this in cyberspace is no longer "mission impossible". It's made very much possible by something the tech world has coined "deepfake". It's when Deep Learning meets Fake News (or doctored photos and videos, for that matter).

2019 will bring us more deepfake content because a large amount of work is going into algorithms called generative adversarial networks (GANs*). A plethora of variants is emerging, and the systems as a whole are learning a lot faster. It is these algorithms that will enable the creation of deepfake content so advanced that we could have a difficult time differentiating between what's real and what's fake in the digital world. If people had trouble telling fake news posts apart from real news on social media between 2016 and 2018, it's very possible that the boundaries will be blurred even more in 2019.

The world's largest democracy, India, will hold general elections in 2019, while the world's second largest democracy, the US, will begin the lead up to its 2020 presidential campaign. These elections are likely to trigger the production of sophisticated deepfake content made to manipulate and misinform the public. The good news is that they could also trigger intensified development of media forensic tools and techniques to safeguard democratic processes. 2019 will see internet service providers, operators and regulators look seriously into mitigating deepfake content, and widespread public awareness campaigns against deepfake.

AN EYE ON AI

In 2017, we predicted that AI ethics would one day be up for discussion. That time has come. The fact that AI will impact nearly every industry and society at large is no longer questionable. As people increasingly tune in to how technology affects their lives, AI is one of those technologies that will receive more public scrutiny in 2019. In the coming year, we will see public and private bodies setting AI governance frameworks and adopting new codes of conduct to ensure that they operate with high ethical standards. This will be done in order to ensure that AI systems are non-discriminatory, transparent, traceable and secure, and that there are always humans in the loop who are accountable for its design, development and adoption. Enabling this, we will also see new venues for AI dialogues happening at all levels of politics, new platforms for education and training in AI, as well as investments in tools and systems that enable ethical AI development**.

"High ethical scrutiny may inhibit innovation," some might say, and in the absence of such oversight, most thriving AI ecosystems in the US and China might be able to grow and innovate faster than more regulated regions, such as Europe. Yet, we see AI governance as vital to sustainable innovation and uptake and acceleration of AI in business. In the end, these autonomous systems need to solve problems for people in a secure, robust and reliable way; proactive monitoring and governance structures for ethical use of AI will aim to ensure that.

5G ISLANDS EMERGE

In 2017, it was all about 5G testing: could a computer a few metres away connect to a signal station running a 5G frequency. In 2018, we saw pioneering uses of 5G - like the 5G drone coverage of the Winter Olympics in South Korea. And coming in 2019, we'll see "5G islands" emerge across the world as large-scale pilots and trials - from Europe to North America and northeast Asia - connect selected communities and business networks. Digitising societies has been a buzzword among operators, industry bodies and governments over the past few years, but 2019 will be the first year when communities will experience what this actually means, taking towns like Norway's Kongsberg, a 5G pilot town, as a first example.

Though 2020 is the year that 5G's global standard will release, 2019 will see commercial advances in 5G, which we see in the United States and areas of Asia already. We'll also see some of the first marketing campaigns based on 5G. From the first self-driving, 5G-steered buses to automated fisheries, from 5G-driven TV and fixed broadband to potential applications of 5G-powered remote surgery - the 5G floodgates will open in 2019, paving the way for commercial services to hit the market in 2020.

IOT USHERS IN INDUSTRIAL AGE 2.0?

We think 2019 will be the year when industrial IoT customers crack the transition from proof-of-concepts, which we've seen in recent years and months, to large scale commercial deployments in low-power wide-area (LPWA)*** ecosystems. We expect the LPWA ecosystem to blossom this year in particular, enabling larger industrial applications which to date haven't matured quickly. As the LPWA ecosystem matures and as developers have vetted much of its tech stack, we can expect to see industries roll out large scale IoT, particularly within the arenas of smart cities, industrial manufacturing and process industries, such as shipping, traffic and transport monitoring and fisheries. In short, IoT is going industrial in 2019.

On the backend, it is becoming clearer how different connectivity technologies serve different use cases. Examples include LTE networks for CCTV and automotive, which are already widespread; LTE-M for logistics; NB-IoT for metering - and many more use cases for each. Though the question on which IoT technologies will scale furthest and fastest remains, one thing is clear - LPWA IoT networks will get more than their share of the spotlight in 2019 and beyond.

CHATBOTS JOIN THE FAMILY

The sobering reality of how hard it's been to work with text-based chatbots has killed a lot of large-scale attempts. We see voice-activated chatbots doing better in 2019 - mainly in household devices. They aren't the most clever systems yet, but as they advance, we can expect more chatbots helping us in our homes than we have before. We think 2019 will see huge growth of voice-controlled chatbots, leading to smarter voice-recognition applications, since they will be limited to a narrow skill-set in which they will perform well." It's possible that by this time next year, domestic chatbots will be at the top of 2019's holiday wish lists in many markets around the world.

SCREENING SCREEN TIME, FLIPPING TO FLIP PHONES

Awareness of screen time and its effects on us is becoming widespread. Following some early movers, people will increasingly use screen time tracking apps, night-time and do-not-disturb modes on phones, as developers tune the smartphone experience to enable us to manage our use of these devices. Developments in the marketplace as a result of increased screen time awareness and discipline will snowball in 2019.

Beyond new apps and software, we could see more stringent limits on screen time in various social and professional settings. Mobile-free meals with family and friends, and mobile-free meetings are certainly becoming more common. Whatever the case, this latest burst of screen time products and campaigns by private industry go a long way to raise awareness.

Moreover, people concerned with their own personal screen time but don't want to disconnect altogether could opt for simpler connectivity. We could see this in the form of wearables, other small connected devices and even flip phones.

GREENTECH CATCHES FIRE

A virtuous cycle in green consumption, awareness and green tech development will take shape in 2019, given a boost in large part by mobile technology. The UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's late 2018 report came as a wake-up call to those not already paying attention. As climate change worries and awareness of consumption both skyrocket in society, a wave of mobile-driven green technology will help people live and consume more smartly than ever. In 2019, this wave will reach its much needed crest.

Oslo is becoming a bellwether of greentech's ability to reach scale. The increasing popularity of products and services like Too Good To Go, which cuts down on food waste, car-sharing platforms, bicycle-only food delivery services, Tesla and electric cars (close to 30 percent of new cars in Norway are electric in 2018) prove that consumers are highly receptive to greentech, if not outright demanding it. And aggressive disincentives -taxes and tolls on environmentally unfriendly transport and consumption provide the knock-out punch to environmental apathy in Norway. On a holistic level, credit goes to government policies, developer enthusiasm for greentech, consumer receptivity and social pressure; four effective cogs churning out greener tech and greener habits - in Norway and beyond in 2019.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

* Generative adversarial networks are a class of artificial intelligence algorithms used in unsupervised learning.

** The European Commission plans to release ethical guidelines of AI in mid-2019, with the ambition to create a global standard for ethical AI. We expect to see recommendations on implementation of Trusted AI in business and on red lines of AI that are subject to strict ethical rules about what should not happen on the European territory (including but not limited to lethal autonomous weapon systems, normative credit scoring, artificial moral agents and similar).

*** Low-power wide-area (LPWA) technology allows connected devices such as sensors, meters or even things like shipping containers to communicate over large geographical areas at a low bit rate.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Media Contact

Jonathan Higgins, Telenor Group Communications

+47 9011 0606

Jonathan.Higgins@telenor.comLONDON and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mkango Resources Ltd. (AIM / TSXV: MKA) (the "Company" or "Mkango"), the rare earths exploration and development company focused on Malawi, is pleased to announce results for the final twenty one drill holes from the recently completed 10,900 metre diamond drill programme at the Songwe Hill Rare Earths Project (Songwe). The process to complete an updated Mineral Resource Estimate has commenced. Nineteen of the latest twenty one drill holes intersected significant zones of rare earths mineralisation grading above 1% total rare earth oxides (TREO), including the highest grade intersections of the current phase of drilling in PX112.



Highlights from the results include the following:

PX070 46.6 m grading 1.8% TREO (5.0  51.6 m) and 123.0 m grading 1.8% TREO (78.4  201.3 m End of Hole (EoH)) including 43.7 m grading 2.7% TREO (78.4  122.0 m). Inclined hole (70 degrees east). PX078 22.3 m grading 1.3% TREO (6.0  28.3 m) and 68.3 m grading 1.8% TREO (76.2  144.4 m) including 19.4 m grading 3.0% TREO (125.1  144.4 m). Inclined hole (60 degrees west). PX081 53.3m1 grading 2.2% TREO (3.7  57.0 m) including 26.8 m grading 3.1% TREO (3.7  30.5 m). Inclined hole (60 degrees east). PX086 73.3 m grading 1.9% TREO (21.5  94.8 m). Inclined hole (60 degrees west). PX087 74.4 m2 grading 2.1% TREO (16.2  90.6 m). Inclined hole (60 degrees west). PX092 74.9 m grading 1.9% TREO (10.1  84.9 m) and 51.9 m grading 1.5% TREO (97.6  149.5 m EoH). Inclined hole (60 degrees south). PX093 83.9 m grading 1.9% TREO (1.5  85.4 m) including 18.0 m grading 3.0% TREO (21.0  39.0 m). Inclined hole (60 degrees west). PX109 53.0 m grading 2.1% TREO (22.0  75.0 m) including 22.0 m grading 3.0% TREO (24.0  46.0 m). Inclined hole (60 degrees east). PX112 100.9 m grading 3.3% TREO (5.9  106.8 m EoH) including 20.5 m grading 4.2% TREO (5.9  26.4 m) and 22.2 m grading 4.1% TREO (36.0  58.2 m). Inclined hole (60 degrees south). PX125 104.5 m grading 1.5% TREO (3.5  108.0 m) including 51.5 m grading 1.9% TREO (3.5  55.0 m). Inclined hole (60 degrees south). 1 Includes 3.8m cavity not sampled. 2 Includes a 2.7m cavity not sampled. TREO: total rare earth oxides based on total La 2 O 3 , Ce 2 O 3 , Pr 2 O 3 , Nd 2 O 3 , Sm 2 O 3 , Eu 2 O 3 , Gd 2 O 3 , Tb 2 O 3 , Dy 2 O 3 , Ho 2 O 3 , Er 2 O 3 , Tm 2 O 3 , Yb 2 O 3 , Lu 2 O 3 , Y 2 O 3 . These intersections are reported as down hole widths and do not necessarily represent true thicknesses and attitude of the mineralised zones, the estimation of which will require further refining of the geological model.

Following the resource update and on subsequent publication of the related NI 43-101 technical report, anticipated in first quarter 2019, Talaxis will invest a further 7 million to fund completion of the Feasibility Study for Songwe, which will be the main focus for 2019.



William Dawes, Chief Executive Officer, commented: This rounds off what has been a highly successful drill programme with another excellent set of results. Metallurgical optimisation and work relating to the Environmental, Social and Health Impact Assessment is also progressing well and we look forward to updating the market as we progress the feasibility study through 2019, starting with the resource update in the first quarter.

The drill programme comprised infill drilling to confirm and upgrade the existing Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resource Estimates, step out drilling to test extensions to the mineralisation, and geotechnical drilling.

Drill holes PX081, PX086, PX087, PX112 and PX125 successfully targeted the higher grade black carbonatite zone, located in the north-east, as indicated on the accompanying geological map on the Companys website. PX054 PX070, PX092 and PX117 were additional infill drill holes.

PX078, PX080, PX083, PX089, PX093, PX109, PX114, PX118, PX122, PX123 and PX124 were step-out holes focused on testing north-west extensions of the mineralisation, all of which intersected broad zones of mineralisation.

The drilling database and geological model has been provided to The MSA Group, which has commenced the process to update the Mineral Resource Estimates.

A schematic geological map illustrating the location of the drill hole collars and estimated drill hole traces is available on the Companys website ( www.mkango.ca ). The full set results and breakdown of TREO values are as follows:

Drill Hole From To Interval La 2 O 3 Ce 2 O 3 Pr 2 O 3 Nd 2 O 3 Sm 2 O 3 Eu 2 O 3 Gd 2 O 3 Tb 2 O 3 Dy 2 O 3 Ho 2 O 3 Er 2 O 3 Tm 2 O 3 Yb 2 O 3 Lu 2 O 3 Y 2 O 3 TREO m m m ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm % PX054 23.4 182.0 158.7 2,733 5,233 582 2,097 322 86 205 24 113 18 44 6 34 5 521 1.2 % PX070 5.0 51.6 46.6 5,228 8,218 785 2,502 318 83 192 21 93 14 30 3 19 3 364 1.8 % 78.4 201.3 123.0 5,186 8,463 824 2,587 305 77 173 19 82 12 27 3 18 2 330 1.8 % including 78.4 122.0 43.7 8,194 12,954 1,212 3,596 350 81 173 17 75 11 25 3 18 2 303 2.7 % PX078 6.0 28.3 22.3 3,214 5,866 621 2,144 332 86 207 24 117 19 44 5 29 4 517 1.3 % 76.2 144.4 68.3 5,114 8,386 832 2,745 366 90 205 22 103 17 39 5 27 3 482 1.8 % including 125.1 144.4 19.4 9,581 14,066 1,306 4,063 500 119 250 24 98 14 32 4 20 3 403 3.0 % PX080 5.7 109.8 104.1 (i) 3,118 5,426 578 2,018 316 82 189 21 94 15 34 4 25 3 406 1.2 % (i) Includes 2.1m of core loss not sampled. PX081 3.7 57.0 53.3 (i) 6,530 10,274 979 3,058 377 97 243 29 137 22 52 6 36 4 638 2.2 % including 3.7 30.5 26.8 9,531 14,108 1,290 3,863 440 108 269 32 144 24 56 7 39 5 684 3.1 % (i) Includes 3.8m cavity not sampled. PX083 31.0 73.2 42.2 2,338 4,551 521 1,961 330 92 228 28 134 21 49 6 31 4 619 1.1 % PX086 21.5 94.8 73.3 4,503 8,452 903 3,098 431 115 272 32 158 26 61 7 43 5 731 1.9 % PX087 16.2 90.6 74.4 (i) 5,731 9,603 981 3,234 410 107 247 30 143 23 53 6 36 4 630 2.1 % (i) Includes 2.7m cavity not sampled. Drill Hole From To Interval La 2 O 3 Ce 2 O 3 Pr 2 O 3 Nd 2 O 3 Sm 2 O 3 Eu 2 O 3 Gd 2 O 3 Tb 2 O 3 Dy 2 O 3 Ho 2 O 3 Er 2 O 3 Tm 2 O 3 Yb 2 O 3 Lu 2 O 3 Y 2 O 3 TREO m m m ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm ppm % PX089 54.3 88.5 34.2 2,215 4,270 465 1,694 285 80 195 23 110 18 42 5 29 4 491 1.0 % PX092 10.1 84.9 74.9 5,133 8,693 859 2,749 374 97 229 26 116 17 39 5 28 4 482 1.9 % 97.6 149.5 51.9 3,376 6,493 708 2,472 375 99 232 26 120 19 49 7 46 6 576 1.5 % PX093 1.5 85.4 83.9 5,070 8,720 892 2,948 394 104 243 29 132 21 51 7 40 5 592 1.9 % including 21.0 39.0 18.0 8,914 14,033 1,348 4,171 472 115 255 28 118 18 41 5 33 5 474 3.0 % PX109 22.0 75.0 53.0 6,078 9,518 896 2,790 348 88 204 23 97 15 33 4 22 3 391 2.1 % including 24.0 46.0 22.0 8,845 13,770 1,285 3,962 477 121 280 31 130 19 41 5 27 3 512 3.0 % PX112 5.9 106.8 100.9 10,530 15,038 1,357 4,067 455 114 279 32 137 22 49 6 35 4 606 3.3 % including 5.9 26.4 20.5 14,172 19,387 1,698 4,949 518 131 323 37 160 25 58 7 39 5 719 4.2 % including 36.0 58.2 22.2 13,856 19,053 1,655 4,776 495 121 289 31 128 19 41 5 28 4 522 4.1 % PX114 56.0 100.7 44.7 (i) 3,762 6,498 663 2,194 319 80 186 21 98 15 34 4 22 3 409 1.4 % (i) Includes two cavities totaling 9.3m not sampled. PX118 4.4 91.0 86.6 3,236 5,889 595 1,919 304 81 192 23 107 18 42 5 31 4 509 1.3 % 120.9 151.6 30.7 (i) 2,248 4,667 497 1,842 346 95 228 27 133 22 52 6 33 4 640 1.1 % (i) Includes 2.2m cavity not sampled. PX122 84.0 106.8 22.8 (i) 3,639 5,899 586 1,934 273 74 172 21 100 16 37 5 27 3 431 1.3 % (i) Includes two cavities totaling 4.2m not sampled. PX123 75.9 100.8 24.9 2,304 4,657 513 1,807 248 61 135 15 67 11 28 4 19 3 331 1.0 % PX124 24.7 58.8 34.1 2,748 5,520 604 2,120 279 73 166 21 107 19 51 7 40 5 556 1.2 % PX125 3.5 108.0 104.5 4,244 6,599 630 1,989 272 77 187 24 113 18 40 5 26 3 475 1.5 % including 3.5 55.0 51.5 5,416 8,469 807 2,505 313 85 205 27 135 22 51 6 34 4 609 1.9 % Drill holes PX044 and PX117 did not intersect significant zones of mineralisation grading above 1% TREO

Scientific and technical information contained in this release including sampling, analytical, and test data underlying the information has been approved and verified by Dr. Scott Swinden PGeo of Swinden Geoscience Consultants Ltd, who is a "Qualified Person" in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Sample preparation and analytical work for the drilling and channel sampling programmes are being provided by Intertek-Genalysis Laboratories (Perth, Australia), employing ICP-MS techniques suitable for rare earth element (REE) analyses and following strict internal QAQC procedures, inserting duplicates, blanks and standards. Internal Laboratory QAQC was also completed to include blanks, standards and duplicates.

About Mkango Resources Limited

Mkango's primary business is exploration for rare earth elements and associated minerals in the Republic of Malawi, a country whose hospitable people have earned it a reputation as the warm heart of Africa. The Company holds interests in three exclusive prospecting licenses in Malawi: the Phalombe licence, the Thambani licence and the Chimimbe Hill licence.

The main exploration target in the 80% held Phalombe licence is the Songwe Hill rare earths deposit. This features carbonatite-hosted rare earth mineralisation and was subject to previous exploration in the late 1980s. Mkango completed an updated Pre-Feasibility Study for the project in November 2015 and a Feasibility Study is currently underway, the initial phases of which include the recently completed 10,900 metre drilling programme.

Under the terms of an agreement with Talaxis, Talaxis will fully fund the Feasibility Study for Songwe by investing 12 million for a 49% interest in the project (via Mkango subsidiary Lancaster Exploration Ltd). Talaxis will also have the option to acquire a further 26% interest by arranging funding for project development including funding the equity component thereof. If Talaxis exercises its option, Mkango will retain a 25% interest, free carried to production. To-date, Talaxis has invested 5 million, which is funding the initial phase of the Feasibility Study, for a 20% interest in the project, with Mkango holding 80%.

By investing a further 2 million, Talaxis will acquire a 49% interest in Maginito Ltd, a new subsidiary of Mkango focused on neodymium alloy powders, magnets and other technologies. This includes the collaboration with Metalysis Ltd announced in September 2017, which is focused on advanced alloys using neodymium or praseodymium with other elements for permanent magnet manufacturing. Permanent magnets are critical materials for most electric vehicles, direct drive wind turbines and many other high growth applications. Neodymium is a key rare earth component at Songwe. To date, Talaxis has invested 1 million for a 24.5% interest in Maginito with Mkango holding 75.5%.

The main exploration targets in Mkangos remaining two 100% held licences are, in the Thambani licence, uranium, niobium, tantalum and zircon and, in the Chimimbe Hill licence, nickel and cobalt.

For more information, please visit www.mkango.ca .

Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) Disclosure



Certain information contained in this announcement may have been deemed inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 until the release of this announcement.



Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements (within the meaning of that term under applicable securities laws) with respect to Mkango, its business and the Project. Generally, forward looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as plans, expects or is expected, scheduled, estimates intends, anticipates, believes, or variations of such words and phrases, or statements that certain actions, events or results can, may, could, would, should, might or will, occur or be achieved, or the negative connotations thereof. Forward looking statements in this news release include statements with respect to the global market for products using the rare earth metals the Company is exploring for, completion of the feasibility study and of the transactions contemplated in the agreement with Talaxis, as well as the use of proceeds from the investments into the Company by Talaxis and the timing of such expenditures. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are based will occur. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not occur, which may cause actual performance and results in future periods to differ materially from any estimates or projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors and risks include, without limiting the foregoing, market demand for the metals and associated downstream products for which Mkango is exploring, researching and developing, the positive results of a feasibility study on the Project, delays in obtaining financing or governmental or stock exchange approvals. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Additionally, the Company undertakes no obligation to comment on the expectations of, or statements made by, third parties in respect of the matters discussed above.

For further information on Mkango, please contact:

Mkango Resources Limited

William Dawes Alexander Lemon Chief Executive Officer President will@mkango.ca alex@mkango.ca UK: +44 207 3722 744 Canada: +1 403 444 5979 www.mkango.ca @MkangoResources

Blytheweigh Financial Public Relations Tim Blythe, Camilla Horsfall, Julia Tilley UK: +44 207 138 3204 SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP Nominated Adviser and Joint Broker Jeff Keating, Caroline Rowe UK: +44 20 3470 0470 Alternative Resource Capital Joint Broker Alex Wood, Rob Collins UK: +44 20 7186 9004; +44 20 7186 9001

The TSX Venture Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any equity or other securities of the Company in the United States. The securities of the Company will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act) and may not be offered or sold within the United States to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons except in certain transactions exempt from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act.



VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In an effort to create a more inclusive cannabis industry, Vancouver-based Grow Tech Labs (GTL) has established a dedicated program for Indigenous entrepreneurs, as part of an Accelerating Cannabis Innovation Program starting this January.



To help reaffirm BCs status as a global cannabis capital for excellence and innovation, GTL will provide direct investment, access to capital, mentorship and licensed space to locate innovative cannabis start-ups in BC. In addition to delivering world-class programs for participants and attracting international investment, a dedicated programming stream will be established for Indigenous founded and/or owned companies.

We want to help create a more diverse, inclusive and, ultimately, stronger cannabis industry. We are looking for innovative solutions and believe that Indigenous entrepreneurs are an important resource to help us achieve our goals of creating a more prosperous and sustainable industry, said GTL CEO Barinder Rasode.

To help foster and promote diversity, the Grow Tech Labs Accelerating Cannabis Innovation Program will:



ensure at least 20 per cent of program participants in the first year are either founded or owned by Indigenous entrepreneurs

include housing and child care allowances in the cannabis accelerator program package for participants who require assistance

require program participants to sign a code of conduct that promotes diversity and inclusion

support recruitment and procurement strategies to advance diversity goals

build on partnerships with community, government, business and education organizations that assist Indigenous entrepreneurs

establish Indigenous representation on GTLs Project Advisory Group



We want to connect with Indigenous entrepreneurs across the country. One of our primary goals is to create diversity in the early stages of the cannabis industry, to create equal opportunity for everyone in our community, says Rasode.

Earlier this month, GTL announced a dedicated funding stream for women entrepreneurs and theyve been extremely successful with receiving female applicants.

For more information about GTL, please visit www.growtechlabs.com .

Contact Information:

Nicole Murphy

Public Relations

778 378 8707

nicole@growtechlabs.comNEW YORK, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Columbia Care LLC (Columbia Care), the nations leading medical cannabis company, announces the opening of an additional medical cannabis dispensary in Pennsylvania. The new dispensary, located at 765 Kidder Street in Wilkes-Barre, opened today, December 3, 2018. The location is Columbia Cares second dispensary serving qualifying patients in Pennsylvania, following the Scranton dispensary which opened in April 2018, giving Columbia Care a leadership position in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

The opening of this new Pennsylvania dispensary underscores Columbia Cares continued commitment to the Commonwealth and its patients. It highlights the rapid growth we are experiencing across the country as patients and providers nationally adopt our high-quality cannabis-based medicines to address significant unmet medical needs, said Nicholas Vita, chief executive officer of Columbia Care. At Columbia Care, we commit ourselves every day to the communities we serve. We are thrilled that we can now improve even more lives throughout Pennsylvania with the opening of our location in Wilkes-Barre. We are thankful for the ongoing support that we have received from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Wilkes-Barre community, and we look forward to serving all stakeholders with the quality of products and service they expect and deserve.

Consistent with the Companys vision and mission, the Pennsylvania dispensaries are designed with patient access, safety and comfort in mind. The Wilkes-Barre location will be staffed by a dedicated team, including a licensed pharmacist, trained to provide the highest level of professionalism, compassion, confidentiality, security and respect to the patients they serve. Leveraging its operating experience and the nations largest repository of patient data gathered from its national dispensary network, Columbia Care pharmacists provide educational resources and counseling to help patients understand the various formulations and delivery applications to determine an optimal dosing regimen, improving efficacy and outcomes.

To access Columbia Care Pennsylvanias state-licensed dispensaries, patients must be deemed eligible by a certified practitioner and be registered with the Pennsylvania Department of Health. State certified patients are encouraged to schedule an appointment at any Columbia Care Pennsylvania location during business hours and are welcome to visit our website ( https://col-carepa.com ) for additional information. Patients can also speak to a Columbia Care Pennsylvania representative at (570) 309-6098 during business hours.

About Columbia Care Pennsylvania

Columbia Care Pennsylvania currently has dispensaries in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, which offer a comprehensive assortment of sublingual tinctures, capsules, concentrates, pain creams, transdermal patches and vaporization pens and cartridges in high THC, high CBD and equal THC:CBD doses as well as cured cannabis flowers. Columbia Care Pennsylvania expects to open a third dispensary in Allentown before year end 2018. By mid-2019, all three dispensaries are expected to provide access to Columbia Cares proprietary portfolio of formulated pharmaceutical-quality cannabis-based medicines. Columbia Care Pennsylvania provides discounts to veterans, seniors and those on social security disability insurance, Medicaid or Medicare. For more information on Columbia Care Pennsylvania and current product offerings, please visit https://col-carepa.com.

About Columbia Care

Columbia Care is the nations largest and most experienced manufacturer and provider of medical cannabis products and services. The Company is licensed in highly selective and regulated jurisdictions and has completed more than 750,000 successful patient interactions since its inception. Working in collaboration with some of the most renowned and innovative teaching hospitals and medical centers in the world, Columbia Care is a patient-centered healthcare company setting the standard for compassion, professionalism, quality, caring and innovation for a rapidly expanding industry. For more information on Columbia Care, please visit www.col-care.com.

Media Contact:

Josephine Belluardo, Ph.D.

LifeSci Public Relations

+1.646.751.4361

jo@lifescipublicrelations.comWASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) applauds North American leadership for signing the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) at the G-20 Summit last Friday, November 30th, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. We further encourage the governments of each country to ratify the new trilateral trade deal.

The USMCA promises to strengthen economic ties in North America and boost the economy of the region. In particular, key provisions are likely to help minority-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) access international markets. Under the USMCA, de minimis value levels are raised, allowing SMEs to export more goods without facing burdensome fees. In addition, Chapter 25 of the agreement establishes a Committee on SME Issues, designed to help SMEs take advantage of commercial opportunities resulting from the USMCA. The USHCC applauds this chapter, which contains a provision specifically for minority business owners, as a trilateral commitment to support small and mid-sized Hispanic Business Enterprises.

Tri-lateral trade is crucial for companies that have supply chains spanning North America. Those supply chains are often comprised of the small and mid-sized businesses that are the backbone of our American economy, said USHCC President & CEO Ramiro Cavazos. The USMCA, like NAFTA, may not be perfect, but it will have a sizeable economic impact with tangible benefits. On behalf of the USHCC, I encourage our members of Congress to ratify this agreement.

About USHCC

The USHCC actively promotes the economic growth, development, and interests of more than 4.37 million Hispanic-owned businesses, that combined, contribute over $700 billion to the American economy every year. It also advocates on behalf of 260 major American corporations and serves as the umbrella organization for more than 200 local chambers and business associations nationwide. For more information, please visit ushcc.com. Follow us on Twitter @USHCC.TORONTO, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wayland Group (CSE:WAYL) (FRANKFURT: 75M) (OTCQB:MRRCF) (Wayland or the Company) is pleased to announce its expansion into Australia, through entering into an agreement to acquire 50.1% of Tropicann Pty Ltd. (Tropicann), a newly formed, privately owned Australian company located in Darwin, Northern Territory, to partner with industry leaders in Australias expanding cannabis industry. With this acquisition Wayland has positioned itself in the important and burgeoning Asia-Pacific market.



Globalization of cannabis continues, and we are present in relevant markets, with Asia-Pacific now added to our international footprint. The Northern Territory is the ideal location for our new Asia Pacific hub. The location provides Wayland with ideal climate conditions in a globally respected and sovereign country with a large and fast emerging market of over 250MM people just 4 hours north. This acquisition accelerates Waylands growth strategy in becoming a truly global cannabis company, stated Wayland Chief Executive Officer Ben Ward.

Michael Gunner, the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, declared, We have a plan to diversify our economy and create jobs. Medicinal cannabis is a growth industry for the Northern Territory, particularly after its legalization by the Australian Government. The Northern Territory Government, Tropicann, and Wayland are in discussions about Major Project Status. Major Project Status ensures priority Ministerial oversight to assist with ongoing project coordination and facilitation across different government agencies to secure timely project delivery.

This is a very real and exciting opportunity for the people of the Northern Territory to enter and participate in a new growth sector in the global economy. It also offers the possibility of creating value-added products through processing here in the Northern Territory, stated Ken Vowles, Minister for Primary Industry and Resources.

Pursuant to the terms of the agreement the Company has agreed to make an initial payment of $4,800,000 Canadian dollars (CAD) followed by a second payment of $24,000,000 CAD following certain milestones being achieved, including issuance to Tropicann of a license to cultivate cannabis in Australia.

Both payments will be satisfied by the issuance of common shares of the Company based on then-current market prices, but subject to a floor issue price of $1.65 per common share.

The payments are conditional on receipt of applicable stock exchange approval, approval of holders of at least two-thirds of the Company's outstanding debentures and any other applicable approvals.

Maricann Group Inc., through its subsidiaries, is operating under the Wayland Group name. For further details see the press release dated September 24, 2018.

About Wayland Group

Wayland is a vertically integrated cultivator and processor of cannabis. The Company was founded in 2013 and is based in Burlington, Ontario, Canada and Munich, Germany, with production facilities in Langton, Ontario where it operates a cannabis cultivation, extraction, formulation, and distribution business under federal licenses from the Government of Canada. The Company also has production operations in Dresden, Saxony, Germany, Regensdorf, Switzerland and Ibague, Colombia. Wayland has also announced transactions that will expand its global footprint to include operations in Italy, the UK and Australia. Wayland will continue to pursue new opportunities globally in its effort to enhance lives through cannabis.

Forward Looking Information

This news release includes forward-looking information and statements, which may include, but are not limited to, information and statements regarding or inferring the future business, operations, financial performance, prospects, and other plans, intentions, expectations, estimates, and beliefs of the Company. Such statements include statements regarding the Company's plans for the Asia Pacific market and the Company's continued global expansion, including with respect to the terms of the proposed transaction, its effect on the Companys global platform and the number and price at which common shares are expected to be issued. Forward-looking information and statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information and statements herein. Such assumptions, risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but are not limited to, that the proposed transaction will be completed on the terms and timelines anticipated by the Company or at all, that Tropicann will obtain the applicable licenses in Australia on the terms and timelines anticipated or at all, the effect that the proposed acquisition, when completed, will have on the Companys global platform, that all necessary stock exchange, securityholder, regulatory and other approvals will be received in connection with the proposed or potential issuances of Common Shares under the proposed transaction on the timelines anticipated or at all and that all other conditions to closing will be satisfied in the manner and on the timelines anticipated. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking information and statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such information and statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking information and statements. Any forward-looking information and statements herein are made as of the date hereof, and except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking information and statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward looking information and statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the content of this news release

For more information about Wayland, please visit our website at www.waylandgroup.com

Contact Information:

Investor Relations

Graham Farrell

VP, Communications

Graham.Farrell@waylandgroup.com

647-643-7665

Media Inquiries: media@waylandgroup.com

Corporate Headquarters (Canada)

Wayland Group Corp. (Toronto)

845 Harrington Court, Unit 3

Burlington Ontario L7N 3P3

Canada

289-288-6274

European Headquarters (Germany)

Maricann GmbH

Thierschstrasse 3, 80538 Munchen, Deutschland







Recognizing the Importance of Partnerships

ATLANTA, GA, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE GeoVax Labs, Inc . (OTCQB: GOVX), a biotechnology company developing human vaccines, today noted its observance of World AIDS Day 2018. World AIDS Day is a global initiative to raise awareness, fight prejudice, and improve education about HIV and AIDS.

The U.S. federal theme for the 2018 World AIDS Day observance is Saving Lives through Leadership and Partnerships, commented David Dodd, President & CEO of GeoVax. GeoVax is committed to an AIDS-free generation through vaccine development, and today we would like to recognize and thank our many collaborators and partners, both current and past, who have helped advance our vaccine candidates. We remain vigilant and focused on our efforts to provide a successful vaccine that prevents HIV, while also pursuing the use of our vaccine technology towards a cure for those with this dreaded disease.

First of all, our HIV vaccines would not even exist without technology contributions from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Emory University. Many years of development, led by our scientific founder, Dr. Harriet Robinson, yielded our vaccine candidate (GOVX-B11) that is currently progressing in human clinical trials.

Our vaccine development has been financially supported by grants from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of NIH. These grants have totaled nearly $47 million during the course of our vaccines progress in the university setting and then at GeoVax. This is a substantial commitment on the part of the NIH for which we are grateful.

The HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) with support from NIAID, has conducted multiple human clinical trials of our preventive HIV vaccine candidates, and continues advancing our vaccine in clinical studies. Most recently, GeoVax announced plans for the next clinical trial (HVTN 132) of GOVX-B11 expected to begin in mid-2019. The HVTN, headquartered at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, Washington, is the worlds largest publicly funded collaboration bringing together global study participants, communities and acclaimed scientific leadership on a journey to find a safe and effective HIV vaccine to prevent new HIV infections in the future.

In addition to our preventive vaccine, our efforts toward development of an immunotherapy treatment for those already infected with HIV are currently centered on our collaboration with American Gene Technologies International, Inc. (AGT), which we hope will yield a functional cure for HIV infection. AGT is using our vaccine in combination with their own gene therapy technology and plans to begin a Phase 1 clinical trial in early 2019. But it is important to recognize that this partnership would not be possible without the groundwork laid by an earlier pilot clinical trial conducted by the AIDS Research Consortium of Atlanta, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the AIDS Research Alliance in Los Angeles.

In addition to the institutions which have played pivotal roles in our vaccines development, there are countless individuals whose hard work and dedication have made substantial contributions to our progress. These include individuals who work for these institutions, our vendors and service providers, GeoVaxs current and former employees, and (most importantly) the patient volunteers who have participated in our clinical trials.

Around the world, about 37 million people are living with HIV, 2.1 million of which are children. In the United States, more than 1.1 million people are living with HIV, and 1 in 7 of them dont know it. These figures are unacceptable, and GeoVax will not be satisfied until there exists an effective vaccine solution to address this continued major healthcare issue. To learn more about our work to fight HIV and other diseases, visit www.geovax.com .

About GeoVax

GeoVax Labs, Inc., is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing human vaccines against infectious diseases using its MVA-VLP vaccine platform. GeoVax was the winner of the 2018 Best Biotech Vaccine Industry Excellence Awards, a finalist for the 2018 Best Prophylactic Vaccine Award for its Zika vaccine at the World Vaccine Congress, as well as a finalist for Pipelines of Promise at Buzz of Bio 2018. The Companys development programs are focused on vaccines against HIV, Zika, hemorrhagic fever viruses (Ebola, Sudan, Marburg, Lassa) and malaria. GeoVax also is evaluating the use of its MVA-VLP platform in cancer immunotherapy, and for therapeutic use in chronic Hepatitis B infections. GeoVaxs vaccine platform supports in vivo production of non-infectious VLPs from the cells of the very person receiving the vaccine. The production of VLPs in the person being vaccinated mimics virus production in a natural infection, stimulating both the humoral and cellular arms of the immune system to recognize, prevent, and control the target infection. For more information, visit www.geovax.com .





AttachmentEnglish Finnish

SRV GROUP PLC STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE 3 DECEMBER 2018 16.45 EET



SRV Group Plc to change its segment reporting and renew Corporate Executive Team

SRV Group Plc will introduce new reporting segments. As of 1 January 2019, SRV will report on two business areas: Construction and Investments. SRVs current reporting segments are Operations in Finland, International Operations, and Other Operations. A new business area, Investments, will largely be formed from the operations currently classified as International Operations, while business operations now reported under Other Operations will primarily be transferred to Construction. The segment change does not entail personnel reduction needs. In the same context, the composition of the SRV Corporate Executive Team is renewed.

We believe that the new segments will result in sharper leadership, enhance capital management, and increase transparency in SRV. In Construction, we are focusing on efficient project management and implementation, as well as high-quality construction and an excellent customer experience. We are bringing all of our property investment expertise together under Investments. This will improve our competitive position in changing market conditions, says CEO Juha Pekka Ojala.

Construction business area comprises all construction business as well as the capital and plots required for developer-contracted housing production. Housing construction, business construction, technical departments, procurement, and internal services are part of the Construction business area. As of 1 January 2019, M.Sc. (Eng.) Juha Toimela has been appointed Senior Vice President, Construction. Toimela is currently heading Operations in Finland. The annual revenue of the Construction business is approximately EUR 1 billion and capital employed amounted to EUR 337 million at the end of September 2018. Construction employs approximately 900 people, which is most of the SRVs employees.

Investments business area consists of both complete and incomplete properties and sites in which SRV is a long-term investor. Plots that SRV will develop itself, and whose expected profits will be generated through development, will also be reported on under Investments. The segment focuses on the management and realisation of the group's real estate investments and the creation and ownership of new collective investment structures.

Initially, the capital employed of the Investments business area is EUR 330 million. It includes SRVs ownership in the shopping centres in both Finland and Russia and the Tampere Central Deck and Arena project. In addition, the portfolio includes land and smaller holdings in the office and logistics real estates in St. Petersburg and Moscow. The Investments segment will employ about 140 people, of which most work in the shopping centre management and in SRV Russia and SRV Estonia. As of 1 January 2019, M.Sc. (Econ.) Jarkko Rantala has been appointed Senior Vice President, Investments. Rantala has held various finance and real estate development roles in SRV since 2012. Veli-Matti Kullas continues to be in charge of operations in Russia and Estonia and shopping centre management. Kullas will report to CEO Juha Pekka Ojala.

SRV group services comprise the following functions in the new structure: project development, finance, HR, legal, communications and marketing and business development.

SRV first-quarter 2019 interim report will follow the new segment structure and SRV is planning to publish comparison figures in March.

SRV Corporate Executive Team as of 1 January 2019

In the same context, the composition of the SRV Corporate Executive Team changes. Veli-Matti Kullas, Senior Vice President, International Operations, and Pirjo Ahanen, Senior Vice President Human Resources, will step down from the Executive Team.

SRV Corporate Executive Team as of 1 January 2019:

Juha Pekka Ojala, President and CEO Timo Nieminen, Executive Vice President, Deputy CEO, Senior Vice President, Property Development Juha Toimela, Executive Vice President, Senior Vice President, Construction Jarkko Rantala, Senior Vice President, Investments Antero Nuutinen, Senior Vice President, Housing and Regional Offices Ilkka Pitkanen, CFO Johanna Metsa-Tokila, Senior Vice President, General Counsel Maija Karhusaari, Senior Vice President, Communications and Marketing







For further information, please contact:

Juha Pekka Ojala, CEO, tel. +35840 733 4173, jp.ojala@srv.fi

Ilkka Pitkanen, CFO, tel. +358 40 667 0906, ilkka.pitkanen@srv.fi







www.srv.fi

You can also find us on the social media:

Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Instagram

SRV - Building for life



VENICE, Fla., Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Zilber Residential Group is proud to announce that construction is well underway on the 272 well-appointed rental residences with all buildings and clubhouse in varying stages of completion. Located near the corner of Laurel Road and Knights Trail Road as part of the Mirasol mixed-use development, the first residents of the Treviso Grand community are expected to move into their new homes around the beginning of April, 2019.



This pet-friendly community is comprised of one, two and three-bedroom residences that range in size from 574 to 1,252 square feet. Interiors offer modern kitchens complete with stainless steel appliance packages, quartz countertops, and designer cabinetry. Each residence will feature sleek fixtures and finishes including wood-style plank flooring, 9-foot ceilings and a screened-in patio or balcony.

Residents will be provided with a variety of modern amenities including access to a 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center with on-demand system to access and participate in aerobics, Pilates, yoga and other fitness classes. A large pool deck with built-in grilling stations will overlook a saltwater pool. A large clubhouse with game table, cyber cafe computer stations and daily coffee service for residents will be available for community events and will be available to reserve when hosting larger groups of friends or family. This smoke-free community also includes a central lake with walking path, two bocce ball courts, tot-lot, off-leash fenced in dog park, fire pit and outdoor pavilion.

The community is located within a short drive to Historic Downtown Venice with a large variety of shopping and dining options, farmers markets, and a variety of regular neighborhood events. With the perfect location, you are just minutes to work and play - the best of both worlds.

To join the VIP information list please visit: www.TrevisoGrand.com or contact the property manager, Lincoln Property Company at (941) 303-4221.

About:

Zilber Residential Group:

Zilber Ltd., headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a nationally acclaimed real estate and asset management company that is majority-owned by the Joseph and Vera Zilber Charitable Foundation, Inc., a private, not-for-profit grant-making institution that seeks to improve the well-being of individuals, families and neighborhoods. Zilber Ltd. develops residential, commercial and light industrial properties as well as interval ownership resorts located in premier locations across the United States. Distinguished by nearly 70 years of innovative thinking and uncompromising quality, the Zilber philosophy remains the same today as it was in 1949: provide outstanding quality, value and customer care.

Lincoln Property Company:

Lincoln Property Company was founded in 1965 as a builder and operator of high-quality residential communities. In the early 1970's, Lincoln expanded its product mix to include commercial, build-to-suit, office, hotel, industrial, and other mixed-use assets. In 1972, Lincoln took this expertise within the United States to Western Europe and the Middle East.

In 2001, Lincoln joined forces with the U.S. Department of Defense to renovate and redevelop family housing at selected bases for the Navy, the Marine Corps, and the Army. Through innovative management, property rehabilitation and award-winning new construction designs, Lincoln is now one of the largest operators of military housing in the country.

Headquartered in Dallas, TX, Lincoln focuses on real estate investment, construction and development, in addition to property management. Their national reputation has enabled Lincoln to attract a large client base of owners and investors who count on their ability to deliver quality results and continually serve as a market leader.

For more information about Lincoln Property Company, please visit www.lincolnapts.com/about/client-services or www.lincolnapts.com/communities for apartment listings in your area.

Media Contact:

Sheri Sandefur Killingsworth, Vice President - Marketing & Communications

214-740-3300 | corporate@lpsi.com

SOURCE Lincoln Property Company

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e2dd442c-ca5f-4f6f-a2ec-f225c4e023b3

http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a867f6ef-80c1-403c-a32a-c9bc2f627ec1

http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/850b8967-1fda-45ad-90b1-79987910f913



HONOLULU, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Honolulu Pet Clinic is earning recognition for practicing the gold standard of veterinary medicine for 25 consecutive years.



Since 1993, The Honolulu Pet Clinic has voluntarily submitted itself to the American Animal Hospital Associations (AAHA) Standards of Accreditation. Achieving accreditation by AAHA is an important milestone to delivering quality pet care.

I would like to congratulate The Honolulu Pet Clinic on their 25th anniversary of being accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association, said Michael Cavanaugh, DVM, DABVP (C/F), AAHA chief executive officer. Choosing to be AAHA accredited and maintaining that for a quarter century demonstrates true commitment to veterinary excellence by the entire practice team. Pets and their people receiving care from an AAHA-accredited hospital can rest assured they are receiving the highest quality veterinary care from a practice team dedicated to delivering their very best each and every day.

AAHA is the only organization in the United States and Canada that accredits companion animal hospitals based on standards that go above and beyond state and provincial regulations. Accredited hospitals are the only veterinary practices that choose to be evaluated on approximately 900 quality standards ranging from patient care and pain management to staff training and advanced diagnostic services. AAHA-accredited hospitals are recognized among the finest in the industry, and are consistently at the forefront of advanced veterinary medicine. AAHA standards are continuously reviewed and updated to keep accredited practices on the cutting edge of veterinary excellence.

Pet owners look for AAHA-accredited hospitals because they value their pets health and trust the consistent, expert care provided by the entire health care team. At AAHA-accredited practices, pet owners can expect to receive the highest quality care from well-trained, professional veterinary teams.

Only the top small animal hospitals in the United States and Canada have achieved accreditation by the Association. To maintain accredited status, The Honolulu Pet Clinic must continue to be evaluated regularly by AAHA.

For more information about accreditation, visit aaha.org or connect on Facebook and like the American Animal Hospital Association.



TORONTO, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Galane Gold Ltd. (Galane Gold or the Company) (TSX-V: GG) is pleased to announce that it has placed the material orders required for the processing plant upgrade according to its plan to recommence production at its Galaxy Project by April 2019.



Galane has already refurbished the existing 15,000 tonnes per month (tpm) processing plant at Galaxy and the upgrade will increase the plant capacity to 30,000 tpm.

The Company advises that it is not basing its decision to expand the throughput capacity of the Galaxy mines processing plant to 30,000 tpm on a feasibility study of mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability of production at such levels and as a result there is increased uncertainty. These risks, among others, include areas that are analyzed in more detail in a feasibility study, such as applying economic analysis to resources and reserves and environmental and community impacts.

The processing plant upgrade allows for the refurbishment of the Galaxy crushing plant and includes the installation of a new jaw and cone crusher which will be able to crush up to 90 tonnes per hour (tph). This will provide for ample maintenance time, even at maximum mill throughput, and also accommodate future expansion. The consistency of the mineralized feed to the plant will be improved by the installation of an apron feeder under the ROM bin.(1)

Initially the existing mill and a single stream flotation will be used to operate up to 15,000 tpm while the new 3.6m x 6.7m ball mill and second flotation stream are being erected. Once the new mill is completed both flotation streams will be brought on line to produce concentrate. In addition, a new reagent makeup and dosing plant will be installed to accurately mix and dose flotation chemicals into the circuit.(1)

The concentrate will then be thickened, initially in one 4.2m high rate thickener, while a second unit is installed to cater for a 30,000 tpm throughput. Two 1250mm x1250mm automatic side bar hydraulic filter presses will be installed to dewater the concentrate to approximately 10% moisture prior to bagging, containerization and dispatch.(1)

The following material orders have been made:

Jaw crusher - NMS JC850 jaw crusher, feed intake 850mm x 510mm, max feed size 450mm, expected discharge size 0mm to 75mm, throughput 65 to 95 tph.

Cone crusher - NMS CC 100 EC cone crusher, maximum feed size 135mm, close size setting 10mm to 13mm, product size 80% minus 16mm, throughput 48 to 89 tph.

Reconditioned ball mill - Size 3.6m x 6.7m, motor size 1700kW, feed size 80% at minus 16mm, product size 80% passing 106 micron, design throughput 50 tph.

Concentrate filtration - 2 side bar hydraulic filter press units, 1250mm x 1250mm, automated electric operation, 200 m2 filter area, 76 filter chambers, design tonnage 8.5 tph, product moisture 10-11%.

Furthermore, preparations for mining have commenced with the contractor having mobilised to site to start the development and first fit work required to recommence underground operations in the new year.

Galane Gold CEO, Nick Brodie commented: With the completion of the funding requirements for our facility with Barak, Galane is now in a position that it can progress to the restarting of the operations at Galaxy.

The work done by Galane while Galaxy was in care and maintenance has resulted in a detailed scope of work for the plant upgrade which we have had verified by independent third parties. Galane has also followed the same process for the restart of underground operations.

This represents only the first step of our resurrection of the Galaxy mine and we will shortly commence a study with the aim being to double production and lower the all-in cost as a result of increased economies of scale.

About Galane Gold

Galane Gold is an un-hedged gold producer and explorer with mining operations and exploration tenements in Botswana and South Africa. Galane Gold is a public company and its shares are quoted on the TSX Venture Exchange and the Botswana Stock Exchange under the symbol GG. Galane Golds management team is comprised of senior mining professionals with extensive experience in managing mining and processing operations and large-scale exploration programmes. Galane Gold is committed to operating at world-class standards and is focused on the safety of its employees, respecting the environment, and contributing to the communities in which it operates.

Notes:

(1) This is forward-looking information and is based on a number of assumptions. See Cautionary Notes.

Cautionary Notes

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this press release, including, without limitation, those regarding the Companys future financial position and results of operations, strategy, proposed acquisitions, plans, objectives, goals and targets, and any statements preceded by, followed by or that include the words believe, expect, aim, intend, plan, continue, will, may, would, anticipate, estimate, forecast, predict, project, seek, should or similar expressions or the negative thereof, are forward-looking statements. These statements are not historical facts but instead represent only the Companys expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual results may differ materially from what is expressed, implied or forecasted in such forward-looking statements.

Additional factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially include, but are not limited to: the Companys dependence on two mineral projects; gold price volatility; risks associated with the conduct of the Companys mining activities in Botswana and South Africa; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to the Companys exploration, development and mining activities being situated in Botswana and South Africa; risks relating to reliance on the Companys management team and outside contractors; risks regarding mineral resources and reserves; the Companys inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks arising from the Companys fair value estimates with respect to the carrying amount of mineral interests; mining tax regimes; risks arising from holding derivative instruments; the Companys need to replace reserves depleted by production; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; lack of infrastructure; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; health risks in Africa; the Companys interactions with surrounding communities and artisanal miners; the Companys ability to successfully integrate acquired assets; risks related to restarting production; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; development of the Companys exploration properties into commercially viable mines; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; lack of liquidity for shareholders of the Company; risks related to the market perception of junior gold companies; and litigation risk.Management provides forward-looking statements because it believes they provide useful information to investors when considering their investment objectives and cautions investors not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors contained herein, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect subsequent information, events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by law.

Information of a technical and scientific nature that forms the basis of the disclosure in the press release has been approved by Kevin Crossling Pr. Sci. Nat., MAusIMM., SACNASP and Business Development Manager for Galane Gold, and a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For further information please contact:

Nick Brodie

CEO, Galane Gold Ltd.

+ 44 7905089878

Nick.Brodie@GalaneGold.com

www.GalaneGold.comFinancier wrote:

The hognose snake puts on an impressive bluff, hissing and rearing back, broadens the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does, feigning repeated strikes, but having no dangerous fangs and no venom , eventually, if its pursuer is not cowered by the performance, will fall over and play dead.



- broadens the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does, feigning repeated strikes, but having no dangerous fangs and no venom,

- broadens the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does and feigns repeated strikes, but with no dangerous fangs and no venom,

- broadening the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does and feigning repeated strikes, but it has no dangerous fangs and no venom, and

- broadening the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does and feigns repeated strikes, but with no dangerous fangs and no venom, and

- broadening the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does, feigning repeated strikes, but with no dangerous fangs and no venom, and





The question has been discussed many times, but one point is unclear for me:

instructor said that the meaning of the sentence clearly indicates that the forms of broaden and feign should be parallel to "hissing and rearing", since all of those things are actions that occur during the "impressive bluff". But why? How these 2 words define parallelism? For me, these 2 words should be paralleled to each other, without influencing other words, which have their own parallelism story... And it's way better to say broadens ... So, for me structure in B is preferrable... Please anybody explain.





Thanks!

Jozu wrote:

The hognose snake puts on an impressive bluff, hissing and rearing back, broadens the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does, feigning repeated strikes, but, having no dangerous fangs and no venom, eventually, if its pursuer is not cowed by the performance, will fall over and play dead.



(A) broadens the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does, feigning repeated strikes, but, having no dangerous fangs and no venom,

(B) broadens the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does and feigns repeated strikes, but with no dangerous fangs and no venom,

(C) broadening the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does and feigning repeated strikes, but it has no dangerous fangs and no venom, and

(D) broadening the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does and feigns repeated strikes, but with no dangerous fangs and no venom, and

(E) broadening the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does, feigning repeated strikes, but with no dangerous fangs and no venom, and

FIRST OF ALL THIS IS NOT A TEST OF PARALLELISM. FORGET ABOUT MAKING PHRASES OR CLAUSES PARALLEL. YOU CANNOT DO IT FROM ANY GIVEN OPTION. EITHER A,B,C,D,E.





PUTS

hissing and rearing back

BROADENS the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does, FEIGNS repeated strikes, but, having no dangerous fangs and no venom,

hissing and rearing back

hissing and rearing back

(Correct option C uses these verb forms)

PARALLELISM is NOT BEING TESTED

In this sentence knowledge of conjunctions and their rules is being tested.

Every option except option C is incorrect because they do not have a clear subject after the conjunction "but"



but

WRONG:- subject missing.

after "but" there is no subject in the second clause



but

WRONG:- subject missing.

after "but" there is no subject in the second clause



but

it

CORRECT:-Has a proper subject "it" in the second clause. "it" refers to the hognose snake



but

WRONG:- subject missing.

after "but" there is no subject in the second clause



but

WRONG:- subject missing.

after "but" there is no subject in the second clause



Posting an answer without an explanation is "GOD COMPLEX". The world doesn't need any more gods. Please explain you answers properly .

FINAL GOODBYE :- 17th SEPTEMBER 2016. .. 16 March 2017 - I am back but for all purposes please consider me semi-retired. Signature Read More

This one is quite a funky one, Checking for parallelism is a forlorn exercise in this sentence.The hognose snakeon an impressive bluff,eventually, if its pursuer is not cowed by the performance, will fall over and play dead.Sinceis bound by commas on either side therefore it is used to provide extra information, it can be seen as a parenthetical term and can be ignored.NOW If this was a test of parallelism then PUTS, BROADENS, FEIGNS have better parallelism.BUT ifare included then in that case PUTS, HISSING, BROADENING, FEIGNING cannot be parallel.Soin this sentence.(A) broadens the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does, feigning repeated strikes,, having no dangerous fangs and no venom, eventually, if its pursuer is not cowed by the performance, will fall over and play dead.(B) broadens the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does and feigns repeated strikes,with no dangerous fangs and no venom, eventually, if its pursuer is not cowed by the performance, will fall over and play dead.(C) broadening the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does and feigning repeated strikes,has no dangerous fangs and no venom, and eventually, if its pursuer is not cowed by the performance, will fall over and play dead.(D) broadening the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does and feigns repeated strikes,with no dangerous fangs and no venom, and eventually, if its pursuer is not cowed by the performance, will fall over and play dead.(E) broadening the flesh behind its head the way a cobra does, feigning repeated strikes,with no dangerous fangs and no venom, and eventually, if its pursuer is not cowed by the performance, will fall over and play dead.THE CORRECT ANSWER IS C_________________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- Just days after President Duterte criticized the Catholic Church, Pope Francis had praised the Philippines

- He said that the country is one of the great Catholic nations in the world

- The Pope also think that governments have the duty to combat against drug traffickers

PAY ATTENTION: Click "See First" under the "Following" tab to see KAMI news on your News Feed

According to a Pope Francis, the Philippines is one of the great Catholic nations in the world. KAMI learned that the Pope stated it in a letter of appointment to Osaka Archbishop Cardinal Thomas Manyo Maeda.

In the letter, Pope Francis appointed the Japanese cardinal to attend the 60th anniversary of the Manila Cathedral. He also praised the Philippines in the said letter as reported by CNN Philippines.

"Indeed, the noble Church in the Philippines now stands among the great Catholic nations in the entire world. Hence, no wonder, she continuously sends missionaries to other regions, said the Pope.

Pope Francis also called the Manila Cathedral as mother and head of churches in the country.

PAY ATTENTION: Using free basics app to access internet for free? Now you can read KAMI news there too. Use the search option to find us. Read KAMI news while saving your data!

In a report by Inquirer, Pope Francis believed that governments are the ones in charge of fighting against drug traffickers. According to the Pope, he condemns pathological forms derived from a secularized cultural climate, marked by the capitalism of consumption.

The Pope also said that the governments should face with courage this fight against the traffickers of death.

As previously reported by KAMI, President Rodrigo Duterte threw tirades against the Catholic Church once again. He said that the teachings of the church are archaic. He also urged Catholic members not to go to church and pay for those idiots and build their own chapel at home instead.

POPULAR: Read more news about President Duterte!

Enjoyed reading our story? Download KAMI's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major Filipino news!

HumanMeter team is tricking Filipinos in the street with the second part of our famous Beggar With A Twist prank.  on KAMI HumanMeter YouTube channel!

Source: Kami.com.phFreely accessible local news is vital. Please power our reporters and help keep us independent with a donation today.

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Food and music events rule the week. The L.A. Times' 101 Restaurants event takes place, for the first time without Jonathan Gold. A Hanukkah celebration features latkes and laughter. Magic Bronson, Echo & The Bunnymen and She & Him perform. Love Actually Live, a theatrical adaptation of the popular Christmas movie, debuts. And KPCC In Person tackles immigration in the Inland Empire.

MONDAY, DEC. 3 - TUESDAY, DEC. 18; 7:30 p.m.

MoMA Contenders 2018

Hammer Museum -- 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood

The Museum of Modern Art in New York selects a handful of films made in the last 12 months that they will stand the test of time -- or earn awards and cult status. Each screening is followed by conversations with directors and actors. The L.A. edition of the series begins Monday with Cold War with director Pawel Pawlikowski. Other screenings this week include: Black Panther, Widows and Free Solo.

COST: $20 per screening; MORE INFO



MONDAY, DEC. 3 - TUESDAY, DEC. 4

Feasting with Friends / Chefs Stand Up Dinner

The Standard Downtown -- 550 S. Flower St., downtown L.A.

On Monday at Croft Alley (and again on Dec. 10 and 17) at the hotel, chef Phuong brings past and current collaborators for a holiday feast including Maddi Bragg (of Croft Alley on Melrose) and Amanda Lanza (of Cash Only). Each week features new holiday-themed dishes available alongside the restaurant's winter cocktail menu. On Tuesday, the last installment of the guest chef fundraising dinner series features Alex Raij and Eder Montero (from La Vara, Txikito, El Quinto Pino and Saint Julivert in NY) creating a prix fixe meal to support the ACLU's Immigrant Rights Project.

COST: $95 for Chefs Stand Up, varies for Croft Alley specials; MORE INFO

MONDAY, DEC. 3; 8:30 p.m. doors

Magic Bronson Residency

The Satellite -- 1717 Silver Lake Blvd., Silver Lake

The L.A.-based electro duo takes over Monday nights in December. The first night's lineup starts at 9 p.m. with The Time Travelers, Bone Acre, Magic Bronson and EasyFriend. DJ sets by SLUGS. The residency features The Wild Riot Inksquad doing $10 flash tattoos, live art, pop-up vendors and drink specials.

COST: FREE with RSVP; MORE INFO

MONDAY, DEC. 3; 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Los Angeles Times 101 Restaurants We Love

The MacArthur -- 607 South Park View St., Westlake

The all-inclusive sipping and tasting event continues without late restaurant critic Jonathan Gold. Try small plates from some of the city's best restaurants including Bestia, Broken Spanish, CUT, Ma'am Sir, Majordomo, Sichuan Impression, Taco Maria and Trois Mec. This event is 21+.

COST: $135; MORE INFO

The 'MONUMENTALity' exhibition opens this week at the Getty and includes works like Mikhail Karasik 's 'Table 3, Palace of Soviets Project.' (Getty Research Institute, Los Angeles (2732-729)  Mikhail Karasik, 2006)

TUESDAY, DEC. 4 - SUNDAY, APRIL 21, 2019

MONUMENTality

Getty Center -- 1200 Getty Center Dr., Brentwood

This exhibition asks viewers to think about why certain monuments endure and others fall and how the meanings behind them change over time. The exhibition features rare books, ephemera, photos and contemporary art about or inspired by monuments throughout history. Among the oldest monuments explored are the Nazca lines, geoglyphs drawn into the southern desert of Peru.

COST: FREE admission; MORE INFO

TUESDAY, DEC. 4; 7 p.m.

Tales from The Strip: A Century in the Fast Lane

Council Chambers at West Hollywood Library -- 625 N. San Vicente Blvd., West Hollywood

The WeHo Reads series presents authors Van Gordon Sauter, Robert Landau and Frans Evenhuis as they discuss and sign their book from Angel City Press. The stories take readers on a journey from Doheny to Crescent Heights on the (in)famous Sunset Strip.

COST: FREE, but RSVP requested; MORE INFO

TUESDAY, DEC. 4; 7:30 - 9 p.m.

Inland opportunities - Immigration and a Changing Region

Glenn Wallichs Theater at the University of Redlands -- 1200 E. Colton Ave., Redlands

The Inland Empire is changing and growing, thanks to affordable housing and economic opportunities. Now, one in five IE residents is foreign-born, according to a study by UC Riverside. KPCC's A Martinez leads the discussion on the surge in immigration and its implications for the region's politics at this KPCC In Person event. He's joined by Nathaniel Cline of the University of Redlands, Juan De Lara of USC and Karthick Ramakrishnan at UC Riverside.

COST: FREE with RSVP; MORE INFO

TUESDAY, DEC. 4 - WEDNESDAY, DEC. 5; 8 p.m.

Echo & The Bunnymen

The Cathedral Sanctuary at Immanuel Presbyterian -- 3300 Wilshire Blvd., Koreatown

Ian McCulloch and Will Sergeant -- two-thirds of the OG Bunnymen -- play two nights to celebrate the Liverpool band's 40th(!) anniversary and its latest release, The Stars, The Oceans & The Moon. The indie rock trio Enation opens both nights.

COST: Tickets start at $49; MORE INFO

TUESDAY, DEC. 4; 7:30 p.m.

Meet the Critics of The Times Movie Beat

Aero Theatre -- 1328 Montana Ave., Santa Monica

Know what to watch in time for Hollywood's award season as New York Times writers Kyle Buchanan, A.O. Scott, Wesley Morris and Aisha Harris discuss the year in film. They'll talk the good, the bad and the ugly as well as who's in the running for an Oscar.

COST: FREE with RSVP; MORE INFO

Ruby Lewis and Ty Taylor star in 'Love Actually Live,' which opens at the Wallis this week. (Photo: Abel Armas)

TUESDAY, DEC. 4 - MONDAY, DEC. 31

Love Actually Live

Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts -- 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd.,

Beverly Hills

For The Record presents a multimedia concert of the soundtrack to Richard Curtis' 2003 romantic dramedy. The production includes songs from the movie, including "Christmas Is All Around," "The Trouble with Love Is" and "Both Sides Now," sung by a star-studded cast accompanied by a 15-piece orchestra. Among the performers: Rumer Willis, Steve Kazee, Kelley Jakle, B. Slade and Rex Smith. The show is recommended for ages 13+.

COST: $35 - $125; MORE INFO



WEDNESDAY, DEC. 5; 8 p.m.

The Moth Mainstage

Avalon Hollywood -- 1735 N. Vine St., Hollywood

Five storytellers explore the theme "Between Worlds," telling tales of neither here nor there and the space between. Hosted by Dame Wilburn, yarn spinners include Leo Balayon, Eva Santiago and Leonard Lee Smith. This event is 21+.

COST: $39 - $79; MORE INFO



WEDNESDAY, DEC. 5 - SUNDAY, DEC. 9

29Rooms

The Reef -- 1933 S. Broadway, downtown L.A.

Refinery29 revives its artsy funhouse, which houses 29 original interactive spaces: "Travel blindfolded through a multi-sensory ASMR tunnel, dance it out with performers in a reimagined nightclub, write an intimate letter to your inner child and work side by side with Artists in a dedicated studio space."

COST: $39.99 - $69.99; MORE INFO



WEDNESDAY, DEC. 5; 8 - 9:30 p.m.

Fool's Gold: A Free Comedy Show

The Nickel Mine -- 11363 Santa Monica Blvd., Sawtelle

Hosts Salma Zaky and Katie Green host a monthly stand-up show. The lineup features Matthew Duckett, Austin Blaylock, Julia Austin, Eddie Della Siepe and Quincy Jones (of HBO, not the producer). The now not-so-secret show is located behind a hidden bookshelf at the West L.A. bar.

COST: FREE; MORE INFO

THURSDAY, DEC. 6 - FRIDAY, DEC. 7; 7 p.m. doors

A Very She & Him Christmas Party

The Wiltern -- 3790 Wilshire Blvd., Koreatown

She & Him -- the duo known as Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward -- have released six albums, including two Yuletide records: A Very She & Him Christmas and A Christmas Party. This marks their first live show since 2013. Comic Alice Wetterlund warms up the crowd.

COST: Tickets start at $40; MORE INFO

THURSDAY, DEC. 6; 8 p.m.

Latkes and Laughs

Skirball Cultural Center -- 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Brentwood

Celebrate Hanukkah with food and laughter, courtesy of some of L.A.'s funniest young Jewish comedians -- Dan Ahdoot, Matt Lieb, Robby Hoffman, Heather Pasternak and host Ester Steinberg. Nosh on latkes from Freedman's L.A. while you laugh.

COST: $10 - $15; MORE INFO



THURSDAY, DEC. 6; 6 - 8 p.m.

Veterans' Storytelling at Hotel Shangri-La

Hotel Shangri-La -- 1301 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica

During WWII, the seaside hotel was used by the United States Army Air Forces as a rehabilitation home for soldiers preparing to re-enter civilian life or redeploy. Nearly 70 years later, the hotel hosts an evening of storytelling from local veterans, celebrating those who have served, in honor of Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. The event also includes appearances from pin-up models and happy hour specials to benefit the nonprofit organization Pin-Ups for Vets.

COST: FREE; MORE INFO

THURSDAY, DEC. 6; 7 p.m.

Reel To Reel: Green Book

The Grammy Museum -- 800 W. Olympic Blvd., downtown L.A.

The museum screens the Peter Farrelly-directed film, which stars Viggo Mortensen as a Bronx bouncer who drives pianist Don Shirley (Mahershala Ali) on a concert tour of the deep south in 1962. They rely on The Green Book to guide them to the few establishments that were safe for African-Americans. The event features a post-screening conversation with Farrelly.

COST: $15; MORE INFO



THURSDAY, DEC. 6

Platicas y Pruebas: The History of Chocolate

LA Plaza De Culturas y Artes -- 501 N. Main St., downtown L.A.

Chef and historian Maite Gomez-Rejon traces the origins of chocolate. Learn about "the food of the gods" while sampling Aztec hot chocolate and champurrado (thick Mexican hot chocolate).Now, that's is a history class!

COST: $20; MORE INFO

THURSDAY, DEC. 6; 8 - 10 p.m.

One for the Books

Stories Books and Cafe --1716 W. Sunset Blvd., Echo Park

At this storytelling show, performers tell tales about life-changing events that affect them forever. Hosted by Sarah Klegman ( "What's Wrong With You?" on Comedy Central) and Oscar Sagastume (Multiple Moth winner), performers include:

Scott Thompson (Kids in the Hall), Helen Hong ("Inside Llewyn Davis"), Mike Bridenstine ("The Hungry Wolf Hunts Best"); Scott Schultz ("L.A. Times") and Erika Brooks Adickman ( "2 Jews Talking").

COST: FREE; MORE INFO

Composer Nicholas Britell joins John Horn at KPCC's Crawford Family Forum. (Photo: Dominic Nicholls)

THURSDAY, DEC. 6; 5 - 6 p.m.

Nicholas Britell in Concert and Conversation

The Crawford Family Forum -- 474 South Raymond Ave., Pasadena

"The Frame" presents the Academy Award-nominated composer, pianist and producer Nicholas Britell talking with host John Horn about his work onthe films If Beale Street Could Talk, an adaptation of a James Baldwin novel directed by Barry Jenkins, and Vice, directed by Adam McKay. Britell will also play selections. There's a cash bar with adult and nonalcoholic beverages available before and after the program.

COST: FREE with RSVP; MORE INFO

THURSDAY, DEC. 6; 5 - 11 p.m.

NoMad Los Angeles: The Holiday Spectacular Returns

The NoMad Hotel -- 649 S. Olive St., downtown L.A.

The hotel's cocktail pop-up opens this week and runs Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 29 at the Coffee Bar. Taste the holiday menu including a Partridge in a Pear Tree with spiced pear, sherry, ver jus, honey and pommeau or the boozy Egg Nog. Guest bartenders and friends around town will show up to make other festive drinks throughout the month.

COST: $16 holiday cocktails; MORE INFO

How are you spending your week? Let us know on Twitter @christineziemba and @LeoHasACat.

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Alex Villanueva has been sworn in as Los Angeles County's 33rd sheriff. He replaces now-former Sheriff Jim McDonnell, whom he defeated in a surprise upset in the November election.

The swearing-in ceremony is being streamed live on Facebook, with L.A. County's Board of Supervisors, former state Sen. Kevin de Leon and other local politicians in attendance.

In remarks at swearing-in, new #LASD Sheriff Alex Villanueva says he had "a career of speaking truth to power" & that wife Vivian, who was also a deputy "suffered brunt of retaliation" from superiors. "Viv I love you & I couldn't have done this w/o you by my side." @KPCC @LAist  Frank Stoltze (@StoltzeFrankly) December 3, 2018

Villanueva, 55, spoke from the podium after taking the oath of office, promising to "empower communities of color" and focus on community-based policing. He pledged deputies will work for the communities and not the "powers that be."

"Those days are over," he said.

Swearing-in ceremony under way @eastlacollege for new LA County Sheriff @LASD Alex Villanueva @alex4sheriff. County Supervisor Janice Hahn pledged the 5-member bd of supes, which decides his budget, will support him - even tho all endorsed the incumbent in the race. @KPCC @LAist  Frank Stoltze (@StoltzeFrankly) December 3, 2018

Villanueva will be in charge of the largest sheriff's department in the nation, with nearly 10,000 deputies and 8,500 civilian personnel. It's a crowning achievement in a career that has often seen Villanueva take on daunting challenges.

When he joined the L.A. County Sheriff's Department in 1986, his first assignment -- like that of every new deputy -- was as a jail guard.

Before long, he demonstrated that he wasn't your typical deputy. He started pushing for a ban on smoking in all county jails, arguing that second hand smoke was bad for inmates and staff.

"The smoke was so thick in there, you could hardly see in front of you," he quipped dryly.

Villanueva's idea was not universally embraced. Many inmates and deputies smoked, and some deputies feared jail violence would spike if inmates didn't get their cigarettes.

Villanueva says a captain threw him out of his office when he first suggested the ban.

He says his efforts eventually prompted former Sheriff Sherman Block to prohibit smoking in the jails in 1991. The ban was something Villanueva often mentioned on the campaign trail - an early example, he says, of how he's pushed for positive change at the department.

It's also an example of his maverick ways.

New L.A. County Sheriff Alex Villanueva. (Photo by KPCC)

DAVID TAKING ON GOLIATH

Friends and colleagues say Villanueva speaks up about issues others ignore or consider too tough to tackle.

He's accustomed to being the little guy fighting the powers that be. That's how he describes his campaign for sheriff.

When he was considering running, "we were a little ragtag army," he told a Democratic club that supported him. "Literally, it was my wife and myself and she said, 'Let's do it.'"

Villanueva, who retired as a lieutenant after 32 years in the department, presents a low key image. In conversation, he's apt to stop himself mid-sentence if he perceives the other person wants to say something.

At the same time, because he's always seen himself as David taking on Goliath, he's had a certain disdain for those in power.

In 1999, he became angry with how the deputies union, the Association for Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriffs, was conducting its business. So Villanueva helped start an alternative union, the Los Angeles Sheriff's Professional Association. He remains its founding president.

The Sheriff's Professional Association provides attorneys for deputies in labor disputes but doesn't have the right to negotiate contracts - a significant disadvantage. That means almost all of its members are also members of the main deputies union. But Villanueva maintains his group is an important alternative voice for deputies.

"What counts is leadership," Villanueva told LAist. "Throughout my career I've stepped up to the plate."

Others describe it another way.

"He kind of did his own thing," said friend and retired Sheriff's Sergeant Danny Batanero. He said Villanueva wasn't known for hanging out with colleagues after work and going out for drinks.

"He didn't have to hang around a bunch of guys," Batanero said. "He stood on his own."

Villanueva did find his wife at the sheriff's department. She was in training to be a deputy at the East L.A. Station when they met. She, too, is retired from the department.

Alex Villanueva during his stint in the Air Force. (Courtesy of Alex Villanueva)

"A GOOD STREET COP"

Born in Chicago to a Puerto Rican father and a Polish-American mother, Villanueva ended up in Southern California when he was serving in the U.S. Air Force and got assigned to San Bernardino's now closed Norton Air Force Base.

He joined the sheriff's department after leaving the Air Force in 1986.

Batanero called Villanueva a "good street cop," someone who would follow up on radio calls to make sure residents' questions were answered. He said Villanueva wasn't one of the department's hard-chargers, that he often tried to talk suspects into custody.

One call stands out, said Batanero. It was in the 1990s and Villanueva was in a foot pursuit of a stolen car suspect through an extremely hilly area called the Alps in City Terrace. Gangsters were known to change street signs to confuse cops chasing them on the winding roads.

"He did an excellent job with the radio traffic - conveying where he was and what he was doing. And he was calm," Batanero said.

PASSED OVER FOR PROMOTION

Lt. Villanueva had sought to rise higher in the ranks but was passed over for captain.

He says it's because he spoke out against the corruption under former Sheriff Lee Baca and his Undersheriff Paul Tanaka. Many at the department have said Tanaka, who ran the day-to-day operations, often promoted based on loyalty, not merit.

"When Baca and Tanaka decided to do unethical things in terms of promotional decision-making ... I stood up and said, you can't do that," Villanueva said. "And that is basically what destroyed my career in that framework."

In 2005, he sued the department, claiming he and other Latinos were denied promotions because of racial discrimination, and that he was retaliated against because he had "spoken out repeatedly" about the department's "racially discriminatory policies and practices."

Villanueva got on Tanaka's bad side when he spoke out about a superior mistreating a deputy when Villanueva was a sergeant at the old Lennox station in South L.A., according to Joaquin Herran, a retired sheriff's captain.

Baca and Tanaka were eventually convicted of various corruption charges and of trying to cover up deputies' abuse of jail inmates.

Villanueva never served in a high-profile position, such as media relations or policy development. Among his jobs: He was a watch commander at the women's jail in Lynwood, an instructor at the training academy, and at the time of his retirement, the watch commander over about 35 deputies at the Pico Rivera Sheriff's Station.

A DOCTORAL DISSERTATION ON PROMOTIONS, DIVERSITY

Villanueva has said at first he was excited when Baca was elected in 1998 and encouraged deputies to engage in continuing education. Villanueva took that to heart and in 2005 earned a PhD in Public Administration from La Verne University.

His dissertation examined how the 10 largest law enforcement organizations in the country promote their personnel and how those policies affect diversity at senior levels. Villanueva's paper ranked the L.A. sheriff's department as having the least diverse leadership of the 10 agencies.

"I went back and looked at what he did and it was a great piece of work," said La Verne Professor of Public Administration Jack Meek. "He gathered data from each of the agencies and created a framework for evaluating them."

Last week, Villanueva announced the removal of more than a dozen of the department's top leaders. He described the move as a combination of bringing in his own team and getting rid of what he perceived as corrupt leaders connected to Baca and Tanaka. It's unclear how he determined who was corrupt.

In a highly unusual move, the sheriff-elect directed last week that Lt. LaJuana Haselrig, whom Villanueva worked with at the training academy long ago, leapfrog over four ranks to become one of four assistant sheriffs. Haselrig, who is African-American, will oversee some of the most sensitive countywide functions of the department -- including homeland security, SWAT and detectives.

Captain Tim Murakami, a Japanese-American who currently commands the Industry sheriff's station, was promoted three ranks to be assistant sheriff in charge of street patrols in unincorporated L.A. County and 44 contract cities.

Villanueva says his experience in the lower ranks will serve him well as sheriff, as will his doctorate. But he's never dealt with a $3.3 billion budget and never commanded so many people. And he's never had to deal with the members of the L.A. County Board of Supervisors, who control his budget.

One key question is how Villanueva will handle the agendas and no doubt the pressure of two very different constituencies that got him elected.

The L.A. County Democratic Party, police watchdogs and immigrant rights groups endorsed him largely on promises he would kick ICE out of the jails, find alternatives to incarceration for people with mental illnesses and be more transparent.

But Villanueva is also close with the deputies union, which spent more than $1.3 million on his behalf during the campaign. The union's agenda is about reversing discipline meted out to deputies Sheriff McDonnell saw as corrupt, relaxing restrictions on deputies' use of force in the jails (where assaults against deputies are up) and addressing a deputy shortage that has resulted in mandatory overtime.

Villanueva says he'll set up a "Truth and Reconciliation Commission" to examine deputies' claims that they were unfairly disciplined or fired by McDonnell.

UPDATES:

12:25 p.m.: This article was updated to reflect Villanueva's swearing in as L.A. County Sheriff.

This article was originally published at 6 a.m.

Hey, thanks. You read the entire story. And we love you for that. Here at LAist, our goal is to cover the stories that matter to you, not advertisers. We don't have paywalls, but we do have payments (aka bills). So if you love independent, local journalism, join us. Let's make the world a better place, together. Donate now.Freely accessible local news is vital. Please power our reporters and help keep us independent with a donation today.

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For the past five months, parents of the Los Angeles Unified School District's 480,000 students have nervously watched the drawn-out, halting and -- so far -- unsuccessful effort to head off a strike by the district's teachers union.

That effort is now very short on time.

On Monday, a panel of fact-finders will meet with LAUSD administrators and representatives for the union, United Teachers Los Angeles. Spokespeople for both organizations say it's possible the panel could ask the parties to meet again on Tuesday and Wednesday. (If you want to know exactly what "fact-finding" is, we break that down for you here.)

This all comes just ahead of a Dec. 14 deadline for the fact-finders to release a report outlining their recommendations for resolving the contract dispute. After that, nothing would legally prevent UTLA from asking its 30,000 members to walk off the job.

But the deadline isn't exactly firm. The two sides could agree to give the fact-finders more time or even return to the bargaining table after the report comes out.

As for those nervous parents, they can relax a bit: Dec. 14 is the Friday before LAUSD's three-week winter break -- meaning even if UTLA were to call for a work stoppage after the fact-finder's report comes out, a strike would not affect students until January 2019.

Then again, there are reasons to be skeptical. Teachers have been working without a contract for more than a year, and negotiations failed in June after a year and a half of talks.

For a complete breakdown of the dispute -- how the contract talks played out, the issues at hand and what parents can expect if a strike actually happens -- check out our explainer here.

Hey, thanks. You read the entire story. And we love you for that. Here at LAist, our goal is to cover the stories that matter to you, not advertisers. We don't have paywalls, but we do have payments (aka bills). So if you love independent, local journalism, join us. Let's make the world a better place, together. Donate now.Lauren Underwood Set to be Sworn In as the Youngest Black Women Elected to Congress

Part of the blue wave that hit Republicans in the 2018 mid-terms came from young women and one of those women came from Illinois. Lauren Underwood defeated Republican incumbent Randy Hultgren for Illinois 14th Congressional District.

Underwood is a longtime healthcare advocate. As a registered nurse and lifelong health care advocate, Lauren Underwood has a tremendous record of service to her community and a deep understanding of the challenges they face, House Majority PAC Executive Director Charlie Kelly said in a news release. Shell bring that needed perspective and experience to Congress.

Underwood has said she would fight to keep the Affordable Care Act intact after having worked on it in her role as a senior advisor in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Underwood who is 32 years of age, is set to be sworn in on January 3. Before Underwood, Barbara Jordan of Texas was the youngest black woman elected to Congress at the age of 36 on January 3, 1973.

Lauren Underwood, winner in Illinois' 14th congressional district, says her victory over her four-term GOP opponent happened because "the voters were interested in a new generation of leadership" https://t.co/CevF0n93uW #CNNElection pic.twitter.com/qOsQv1ycpz  CNN (@CNN) November 14, 2018

ADVERTISEMENTLos Angeles County Begins Hazardous Waste Removal Following Woolsey Fire

The L.A. County Fire Department alongside teams from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) will begin assessing and removing household hazardous waste from properties burned by the Woolsey Fire.

The assessment and removal of hazardous waste from homes burned by the Woolsey Fire is an important first step towards reducing potential threats to public safety and health, said L.A. County Fire Department Chief Daryl L.Osby. Remains of everyday products like paints, cleaners, batteries and pesticides are toxic after a fire. Our hazardous waste removal teams will work thoroughly and quickly to clear the way so that the rebuilding process can begin.

We know people are anxious to return home after the fire. Safely removing the remains of everyday hazardous products from damaged properties before people return helps keep them and their environments safe and healthy, said Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, Health Officer for Los Angeles County. Safety is our primary concern as people work to get their lives back to normal.

ADVERTISEMENT

Hazardous waste removal work, completed jointly by the L.A. County Fire Department, EPA and DTSC, is authorized by federal and state disaster declarations and a subsequent executive order given by the Governor of California. The hazardous waste removal work does not require property-owner consent. Property owners cannot opt out of hazardous materials assessment and removal activities, and do not need to schedule an appointment. We kindly request property owners assist by unlocking and opening gates to accommodate the inspections and hazardous waste removals.

Specifically, the L.A. County Fire Department, EPA and DTSC activities include:

Door-to-door assessment, survey and collection of household hazardous waste at approximately 1,500 properties in L.A. County at no-cost to property owners;

Safe removal, transport and disposal of hazardous waste materials; and

Posting of yellow clearance placards on each property that have been cleared of hazardous waste.

Property owners impacted by the Woolsey Fire who have questions about the hazardous waste removal process can contact the Los Angeles County Fire Department at (323) 890-4000, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Additional information can be found at www.lacounty.gov/WoolseyFire.Rev. Jesse Jackson Delivers the Eulogy for Emantic EJ Fitzgerald Bradford Jr, Young Black Man Shot in Birmingham Mall

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP)  The Rev. Jesse Jackson delivered the eulogy Saturday for an African-American man shot to death by a police officer following a shooting at a crowded Alabama shopping mall.

Jackson said the Hoover police officer who shot Emantic EJ Fitzgerald Bradford Jr., 21, must face justice and urged authorities to release tapes of the shooting. No one is above the law, Jackson said.

The officer killed Bradford on Thanksgiving night while responding to a shooting at the Riverchase Galleria Mall. Authorities initially identified Bradford as the gunman, but later retracted that allegation and searched for the real shooter who wounded two people that night.

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Bradfords relatives have said he had a permit to carry a gun legally, and their attorney has quoted witnesses as saying Bradford was trying to help when he was gunned down.

Bradfords death sparked a week of protests in Hoover and calls for the release of surveillance videos of the shooting.

We will have the tape made public, Jackson said to rousing applause. We want transparency, not cover-up. Tell the whole story, tell it now. We want justice now. We want fairness now.

The Hoover Police Department has turned over footage of the shooting to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, which is investigating. The city has not released any information about the officers involved, but did say the person who fired the fatal shot has been placed on inactive duty during the investigation.

Jackson said Bradford would not be forgotten, and pledged to keep fighting for more information about the shooting.





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Rev. Jesse Jackson

Innocent blood has power, he said.

Jackson invoked the long history of civil rights in Birmingham and Alabama, and the recent Black Lives Matter movement. He preached about Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr. and the four little girls killed in a bombing at Birminghams 16th Street Baptist Church. He also listed some of the black men killed by police in more recent high-profile incidents, including Michael Brown, Freddie Gray and Philando Castile.

In the images of those battles and the shedding of blood, E.J. Bradford joins those ranks, Jackson said.

Prior to the eulogy, many of Bradfords friends paid tribute to him, remembering him as a generous and loyal person, who always thought of others.

Everybody called E.J., said one friend. He was always on call.

His father, Emantic Bradford Sr., who is fighting cancer said when he got diagnosed, he saw a change in his son.

When I got sick, I knew then my son turned the corner and started being responsible, he said. The shoe was on the other foot. He started checking on me. My child was a good child.

He broke down in tears when he spoke about losing his son who he hadnt realized had touched so many lives.

The years that I had with him were 21 good years, his father said. To this day, hes always going to be my hero. I miss my baby and his mama miss him too.

The funeral was held at Boutwell Auditorium in Birmingham on an overcast Saturday morning. Mourners wept as they stopped in front of Bradfords open casket. More than 1,000 people filed into the facility to honor his life and memory.Riverside County Jury Awards $2.5 Million for Wrongful Death in Fatal Shooting of Mentally-ill Anthonie Smith by Sheriffs Deputies

Attorney Herbert Hayden, Sybil Davis (Mother), Attorney John Harris Photo credit: Chaz Hall Photography

A Riverside County jury awarded a $2.5 million wrongful death verdict on Wednesday to the family of a mentally-ill African-American man fatally shot nine times by Riverside Sheriffs on July 16, 2015. Sybil Davis, the mother of now deceased, Anthonie Smith, has further expressed her hope that law enforcement will be required to obtain adequate training on the appropriate handling of citizens with mental illness.

In a statement following the verdict, Ms. Davis expressed,Im very relieved that my son got justice today. Its been three years and Im happy that the jury found the officers excessive force unnecessary. I hope that this will serve as an example for families who struggle with mental illness. My son didnt deserve to lose his life. I trusted the police, and Im really glad the verdict ruled in our favor.

Anthonie Smith Source: Go Fund Me

The case centered around the use of excessive force and wrongful death in the detention of Anthonie Smith, who was having a schizophrenic episode. Deputies were notified of his mental illness, and upon locating Anthonie near the corner of Perris and Sunnymead boulevard, shot him eight times causing him to fall to the ground. A severely wounded Anthonie managed to stumble back to his feet, and after several seconds elapsed, Deputies shot him a ninth and final time.

The deceaseds mother, Sybil Davis won justice for her son against Deputy Deylan Kennedy, Sergeant Sheree Anthony, and the County of Riverside. Plaintiff attorney John Harris of Harris & Associates commented on the victory saying, We are pleased with the jurys verdict today of 2.5 million dollars. Justice was served on behalf of the decedent, Anthonie Smith, and his mom, Sybil Davis. Were pleased that this three-year journey has now come to a close.

ADVERTISEMENTMonday, December 3, 2018

The Illinois Review Board proposes that an attorney not admitted in the jurisdiction be disbarred for unauthorized practice

In a four-count amended complaint, the Administrator charged Respondent with engaging in the unauthorized practice of law in Illinois and other misconduct in connection with Respondent's handling of eight matters for his former landlord. After the Court rejected a petition to impose discipline on consent, the matter was scheduled for a contested hearing.

Respondent, who represented himself throughout his disciplinary proceedings, brought a motion to appear at the hearing remotely, arguing that financial and medical issues prevented him from traveling to Chicago from Florida for the hearing. The hearing panel chair denied Respondent's motion, and held the hearing on the scheduled date. Respondent did not appear. The hearing panel chair therefore struck Respondent's answer and deemed the allegations of the complaint admitted, and the hearing proceeded as a default.

The Hearing Board found that Respondent handled eight matters while he was living in Illinois even though he was never admitted to practice in Illinois; knowingly did not appear for his sworn statement; sought to have his client execute an agreement granting Respondent an interest in his client's business without advising the client in writing that he may seek the advice of independent counsel; and did not reduce a contingent fee agreement to writing in connection with one of the eight matters. The Hearing Board found significant aggravation, and recommended that Respondent be suspended for one year and until further order.

Respondent filed exceptions, arguing that the Hearing Board erred in denying his motion to appear at his hearing remotely, and that the disciplinary proceedings against him violated his right to due process because the hearing panel relied on misinformation in reaching its decisions. He asked this Board to vacate the Hearing Board's report and recommendation and remand the matter for a new hearing.

The Review Board found no error in the Hearing Board's pre-hearing rulings or findings of misconduct, and therefore affirmed them. It recommended that Respondent be disbarred from practice in Illinois.

(Mike Frisch)

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2018/12/the-illinois-review-board-proposes-that-an-attorney-not-admitted-in-the-jurisdiction-be-disbarred-for-unauthorized-practice.htmlThe United States Congress is responsible for making and approving federal laws  rules that everyone in the country must follow. But exactly how do those laws get made? The process is not easy, and it takes a long time.

A law begins when someone proposes an idea. The idea can come from anyone, but it has to get to a U.S. lawmaker who wants it to become legislation. In time, the idea is further developed into a written proposal, called a bill.

Then, a member of Congress  that is, a senator or a member of the House of Representatives  officially proposes the bill. In other words, a lawmaker sponsors it. Lawmakers usually sponsor bills that are important to them or the people who live in the area they represent.

After the bill is introduced, it is sent to a small group of lawmakers, called a committee. Committees are responsible for a specific public policy or area of government. For example, both the Senate and the House have committees that deal with agriculture, education, and international relations.

Sometimes committee members seek more information about the proposal by holding hearings. Sometimes the committee changes the bill. Sometimes it decides not to take any action. In that case, we say lawmakers table the bill, or let it die in committee.

But now and then, they offer the bill to lawmakers not on the committee. Those lawmakers debate the bill further. They might change the bill again.

Finally, the full House or Senate votes on the bill. If it does not earn the majority of votes, the bill does not advance.

But if it does get approved, the bill goes to the other chamber of Congress. So, bills approved by the House go to the Senate; bills approved by the Senate go to the House.

Lawmakers in the second chamber repeat the process. If the second chamber also approves the bill, lawmakers from both the House and the Senate may have to discuss it again to settle any differences.

Finally, the agreed-upon bill is sent to the president. The president has a few choices about what to do.

If the president signs it, the bill becomes a law.

If the president does nothing and Congress is officially meeting, the bill becomes a law.

But if the president does nothing and Congress is not in session, the bill does not pass.

Or the president can officially reject  or veto  the bill. If that happens, the bill is not stopped. Instead, it is returned to both the Senate and the House.

If two-thirds of the senators and two-thirds of the House members approve the bill once again, they override the veto. That is, even with the president objecting, they turn the bill into a law.

Im Kelly Jean Kelly.

Kelly Jean Kelly wrote this story for Learning English. George Grow was the editor.

________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

sponsor - v. to take the responsibility for someone or something

advance - v. to go forward; to make progress

chamber - n. a group of people who form part of a government

session - n. a period of time that is used to do a particular activity

override - v. to make something no longer validMost people would do anything to get out of jail. Some prisoners risk their lives in attempts to escape and regain their freedom.

But some South Koreans actually pay money to spend time in a mock jail to escape the pressures of daily life.

The detention center, called Prison Inside Me, opened in the South Korean city of Hongcheon in 2013. Since then, more than 2,000 people have put themselves through the prison-like experience.

Many of them are tired, overworked office workers or students. Some say the complete isolation of a jail environment can help them break free from day-to-day pressures.

The building looks like a real prison. Inside, individuals are kept alone in small cells. There is no bed in the room, so many sleep on the floor on a yoga mat.

These prisoners receive only a blue uniform to wear, a tea set, as well as a pen and paper for keeping notes. Prison rules are strongly enforced. Electronic devices, clocks and other personal belongings are banned. Talking among the prisoners is not permitted.

Food served is simple. It includes rice porridge in the morning, and steamed sweet potato and a banana drink for dinner.

Park Hye-ri is a 28-year-old office worker. She paid $90 to spend 24 hours at the Prison Inside Me. She says the experience gave her a sense of freedom that she really needed.

I was too busy, Park told the Reuters news agency as she sat in her five square meter cell. I shouldnt be here right now, given the work I need to do. But I decided to pause and look back at myself for a better life.

Noh Ji-Hyang is one of the founders of the mock prison. She told Reuters she got the idea from her husband, a government lawyer who often put in 100-hour work weeks. She said her husband once told her he would like to take a break from work and go into solitary confinement for a week to rest and feel better.

Noh said that some people are not sure what to expect when they first arrive to take part in the unusual prison experience. But after their stay, they say this isnt a prison. The real prison is (the life) they return to, she said.

South Korea is known for its demanding work culture and schooling. The suicide rate is two times as high as the United States, and one of the highest in the world.

An international study showed that on average, South Koreans worked 2,024 hours in 2017. This was the third longest after Mexico and Costa Rica, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development reported.

Experts say a downturn in recent years in South Koreas export-driven economy has made employment and school competition more intense. This could lead even more people to temporarily escape real life in a prison-like environment.

Im Bryan Lynn.

The Reuters news agency reported on this story. Bryan Lynn adapted the report for VOA Learning English. George Grow was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page.

_______________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

mock  adj. not real but appearing or pretending to be exactly like something

isolation  n. the state of being separate from other people, places, or things

cell  n. small room in a prison or police station where a prisoner is kept

solitary confinement  n. punishment in which a prisoner is kept in a room aloneThe administration of American President Donald Trump is considering new restrictions on Chinese students entering the U.S.

U.S. officials say increased concerns over spying and the loss of new technologies are among the reasons.

In June, the U.S. State Department shortened the length of stay for visas given to Chinese graduate students studying in several fields. The fields include flight, robotics and some kinds of manufacturing. Visas were shortened from five years to one.

At the time, the officials said the goal was to limit the risk of spying and of the loss of intellectual property that is important to national security.

Now, the Trump administration is considering whether to carry out additional investigations of Chinese students attending U.S. schools.

Reuters news agency reported that officials want to examine student phone calls. They also are considering looking at students personal accounts on Chinese and U.S. social media sites.

Security officials are expected to train education officials on how to uncover spying, as they now do for people in the government, a U.S. official said.

The U.S. State Department said, The department helps to ensure that those who receive U.S. visas are eligible and pose no risk to national interests.

The Chinese government has said that the U.S. overstates the problem for political reasons.

Chinas ambassador to the U.S., Cui Tiankai, said Why should anybody accuse them as spies?

However, a closer watch on Chinese students would be part of a bigger effort to deal with the loss of new technologies. U.S. officials are concerned about unlawful methods China may use to make quick technological gains.

China wants to be among the leaders in technologies such as electric cars and robots, as called for in its Made in China 2025 plan.

In addition, China and the U.S. are currently in a trade war. The U.S. has placed import taxes on Chinese steel and aluminum and billions of dollars in other goods. China has answered with its own import taxes on U.S. products.

American officials told Reuters that any policy changes would need to balance security with the needs of schools and development.

Universities and colleges need talented students in important technological fields. They also depend financially on students tuition and the economic activity they support. About 360,000 Chinese students who are attending U.S. schools bring in an estimated $14 billion to local economies.

Research schools such as Harvard, Yale and Princeton universities campaigned against efforts to change visa policies this summer and are concerned about other possible restrictions.

U.S. officials say there are reasons for a closer look at Chinese students. They note recently reported spying cases against former students from Louisiana State University, Duke University and the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago.

Christopher Wray is the director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. In February, he told a Senate committee that he is concerned about non-traditional collectors seeking intelligence.

Opposition to a ban

Media reports say White House adviser Stephen Miller has proposed a ban on student visas for Chinese nationals.

However, Reuters reports that new measures will not include a ban. Terry Branstad, a former governor of Iowa and U.S. ambassador to China has told officials that a ban would hurt universities across America.

Terry Hartle is a vice president at the American Council on Education in Washington, D.C. He said Chinese students are at risk of becoming, in his words, pawns in the U.S.-China dispute.

Im Mario Ritter Jr.

Reuters reported this story. Mario Ritter Jr. adapted it for VOA Learning English. Caty Weaver was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page.

_________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

intellectual property n. something (such as an idea, invention, or process) that comes from a person's mind

eligible adj. able to be chose for something

pose v. to be or create some situation

tuition n. the money paid to a school for the right to study there

pawns n. a person or group that does not have much power and that is controlled by a more powerful groupA Chinese researchers claim of creating the worlds first genetically edited babies is considered irresponsible by many scientists.

The researchers employer, Southern University of Science and Technology of China, said it did not know about the activities. Chinas government ordered a halt to the work on Thursday.

The researcher, He Jiankui, said he had edited the genetic material, or DNA, of two girls born recently. He said he had performed the gene editing to help protect the babies from infection with HIV, the virus responsible for the disease AIDS. He said the process had worked safely and the two girls were as healthy as any other babies.

There has been no independent confirmation of Hes work, and he did not provide written documentation of his research.

On Wednesday, He defended his work at an international conference in Hong Kong. He also announced a possible second pregnancy using the same process.

Scientists condemn the experiment

Scientists have been quick to condemn the experiments.

David Baltimore is with the California Institute of Technology and a leader of the conference. He received the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1975. He called the experiment irresponsible. Baltimore said it did not meet the guidelines many scientists have agreed on before gene editing could be considered.

Jennifer Doudna is a University of California-Berkeley scientist and one of the inventors of the CRISPR gene-editing tool used in the experiment. She called it truly unacceptable. She told the Associated Press, I dont think that we heard answers. We still need to understand the motivation for this.

I feel more disturbed now, said David Liu of Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technologys Broad Institute. He is the inventor of a version of the gene-editing tool. Liu said the experiment is an example of what not to do about a promising technology. He said he hopes that: it never happens again.

In China, Vice Minister of Science and Technology Xu Nanping said the experiment crossed the line of morality and ethics adhered to by the academic community and was shocking and unacceptable.

Why is Hes action in dispute?

In 2017, the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine released a report about human gene editing. The group said gene editing should be used for research only in a laboratory to learn how to change embryos.

The Academies also said the measure is not ready for human pregnancies. And if it is ever permitted, it should be used to treat or prevent serious diseases with no better choices available.

Federal money cannot be used for gene editing of human embryos in the United States. Other countries also have restrictions.

People who oppose such experiments say changes to a persons DNA can pass to future generations. They say gene editing risks harming other genes and affects people who did not accept the treatment.

Others fear that the experiment will lead rich parents to seek genetic improvement to produce, what are called, designer babies.

Is there room for gene editing?

The Academies, however, support gene editing to improve food production in order to feed the worlds growing population.

Researchers are using the technology to produce several new kinds of crops. They include high-fiber wheat, mushrooms that keep their color and highly productive tomatoes. They also are trying to develop corn that resists dry weather conditions and rice that resists pollution.

Other scientists hope to use gene editing to end crop diseases such as citrus greening that affects fruits like oranges.

In the U.S., a company called Recombinetics is looking to raise new kinds of cows and pigs.

However, many governments are still considering how to oversee gene-edited foods. It also is unclear whether people will be willing to buy gene-edited foods.

Im Mario Ritter Jr.

Hai Do adapted this story for VOA Learning English based on Associated Press reports. Mario Ritter Jr. was the editor.

Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

_______________________________________________________________

Quiz

Quiz - Why Is Gene Editing in Dispute? Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

edit v. to prepare something by making changes or corrections of mistakes

motivation n. a force or influence that causes someone to do something

disturbed adj. worried and unhappy

adhere to v. to act in a way that is requiredThe memory of a beloved pet inspires one couple's fight against injustice.Please enable cookies on your web browser in order to continue.

The new European data protection law requires us to inform you of the following before you use our website:

We use cookies and other technologies to customize your experience, perform analytics and deliver personalized advertising on our sites, apps and newsletters and across the Internet based on your interests. By clicking I agree below, you consent to the use by us and our third-party partners of cookies and data gathered from your use of our platforms. See our Privacy Policy and Third Party Partners to learn more about the use of data and your rights. You also agree to our Terms of Service.A display featuring missiles and a portrait of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is seen at Baharestan Square in Tehran, Iran on September 27, 2017. (Nazanin Tabatabaee Yazdi/TIMA via Reuters)

Iran Tests Medium-Range Ballistic Missile Capable of Multiple Warheads: Pompeo

Iran has test-fired a medium-range ballistic missile capable of carrying multiple warheads, Secretary of State Michael Pompeo said on Saturday, Dec. 1.

The missile has a range that allows it to strike parts of Europe and anywhere in the Middle East, he said.

Its unclear when and where Iran conducted the test.

Pompeo said Irans new missile testing violated UN Security Council Resolution 2231.

He condemned the test and called upon Iran to cease immediately all activities related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons.

Irans missile testing and missile proliferation are growing. We are accumulating risk of escalation in the region if we fail to restore deterrence, he warned.

Pompeos statement came just days after a top Iranian general warned that U.S. military personnel and assets in the Middle East are within range of the countrys missiles.

On Nov. 21, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards commander claimed that American aircraft carriers in the Gulf and military bases in Qatar, Afghanistan, and the United Arab Emirates are within range of Iranian missiles.

They are within our reach and we can hit them if they (Americans) make a move, Amirali Hajizadeh, head of the Revolutionary Guards airspace division, told a local state-run news outlet, according to Reuters. He described the American bases around Iran as easy meat for us, reported Iranian state-run mouthpiece Press TV.

Hajizadeh also claimed the Revolutionary Guard has improved the precision of its missiles, saying it could specifically hit the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the Kandahar base in Afghanistan, and the Al Dhafra base in the United Arab Emirates.

The comments came amid mounting tension between the United States and Iran.

President Trump pulled out of a 2015 deal on Irans nuclear program in May and recently restored sanctions that were lifted under the agreement, which was partially brokered by former President Barack Obama.

The Treasury Department said on Nov. 5 that the sanctions are the harshest ever imposed on Iran, and will target critical sectors of Irans economy, such as the energy, shipping and shipbuilding, and financial sectors.

Pompeo Defends US-Saudi Partnership

In a Nov. 28 op-ed, Pompeo defended the alliance with Saudi Arabia and warned that degrading U.S.-Saudi ties would be a grave mistake for the national security of the U.S. and its allies.

He cited the threat from Iran as one reason for the US-Saudi partnership.

[Irans] objectives are to spread the Islamic revolution from Tehran to Damascus, to destroy Israel, and to subjugate anyone who refuses to submit, starting with the Iranian people. An emboldened Iran would spread even more death and destruction in the Middle East, spark a regional nuclear-arms race, threaten trade routes, and foment terrorism around the world, Pompeo wrote.

Pompeo has also affirmed theres no evidence of a direct link between the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman and journalist Jamal Khashoggis murder.

He made the statement during an interview with Wolf Blitzer of CNN.

I have read every piece of intelligence that is in the possession of the United States government, and when it is done, when you complete that analysis, theres no direct evidence linking him to the murder of Jamal Khashoggi. That is an accurate statement, it is an important statement, and it is the statement that we are making publicly today, he said.

Reuters contributed to this report.Abdul Huda Farouki (R) with wife Samia (L) and daughter Dana in New York City, on Oct. 30, 2009. (Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for W Magazine)

Major Democrat, Clinton Donor Indicted for Fraud, Violating Iran Sanctions

Three executives connected to a defense contractor were charged for allegedly defrauding the United States military and for breaking U.S. sanctions on Iran. One of them was a significant contributor to the Democratic party, former State Secretary Hillary Clinton, and former President Bill Clinton.

The contractor, the Dubai-based Anham corporation, lied to the military in order to get an $8 billion 10-year contract in 2012 to supply food for U.S. troops in Afghanistan. It also had materials and equipment shipped through Iranin violation of U.S. sanctionsto cut costs, the prosecutors said.

One of the defendants, former Anham chief executive Abdul Huda Farouki, is a prominent Democratic donor. He and his wife Samia gave the party and its candidates over $320,000 since the 1990s, including over $13,000 to the various campaigns of the Clintons, according to OpenSecrets.org. Farouki was also a member of the Clinton Global Initiative project.

The other defendants are Faroukis brother Mazen, who headed a logistics company closely tied to Anham, and Salah Maarouf, who ran a company that procured goods and services for Anham.

Fake Construction

The massive supply contract required the contractor to have large warehouses to store food in Afghanistan. Anham claimed that the process of constructing such warehouses would be done well before the contract was to be awarded. But that was a lie, according to the indictment (pdf). The construction had barely started months after the company submitted its bid. To get the contract, the company arranged equipment and machinery to create the false appearance of an active construction site, the indictment alleges.

Sanctions

As the company finally progressed with the construction, it shipped major components of the warehouses through Iran in violation of sanctions placed on Iran by the Obama administration.

When the violation was reported in 2013 by The Wall Street Journal, Farouki lied to the Defense Department, saying Anhams senior leadership didnt know about the plan to ship through Iran. The defendants, in fact, routinely discussed in internal communications the transshipment of warehouse components through Iran, for the purpose of saving time and decreasing the need to expend costs for the project prior to the awarding of the  contract, the indictment reads.

Trucks Through Iran

In 2012, Anham also received at least $423 million in a Defense Department contract for trucking services in Afghanistan.

Similarly to the warehouse components, the company shipped trucks through Iran, rather than ship trucks to Afghanistan using legal but relatively expensive routes, the Justice Department stated in a Nov. 29 release.

The defendants were each charged with two counts of major fraud, one count of conspiracy to violate the restrictions on doing business with Iran, four counts of substantive violations of those restrictions, and one count of conspiracy to commit international money laundering.

They made their initial appearance on Nov. 29, before D.C. Magistrate Judge Michael Harvey. All were arraigned and pleaded not guilty. The next hearing is scheduled for Dec. 6, before D.C. District Judge Trevor McFadden, an appointee of President Donald Trump.

The case was investigated by the Immigration and Customs Enforcements Homeland Security Investigations in Washington, and by investigators at the office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction.The authorization process of Banco Sino-Atlantico, owned by Macau businessman David Chow, has yet to be analyzed and decided upon because the application is incomplete, the Bank of Cape Verde (BCV) said in a statement released on Tuesday.

The Cape Verdean central bank has disputed claims published in the press last week that the BCV is at present making itself an insurmountable obstacle to the founding of the Banco Sino-Atlantico.

In a statement, the BVC said, Unlike what was said in the report, the authorization process of Banco Sino-Atlantico is incomplete, as it does not contain all the legally required elements, which is why, to date, it has not been possible to analyze it or for a decision to be made by the Banco de Cabo Verde.

The BCV said that the original application was submitted by the promoter on February 16, 2017, with numerous official and material shortcomings and that, after a quick examination, the bank replied to the interested party on March 2, informing them of the incomplete state of the documentation.

The shortcomings of a strategic, economic, operational and prudential nature that do not make it possible to assess the sustainability of Banco Sino-Atlantico project were pointed out, the central bank said.

About five months later, the promoter provided some of the missing elements, pledging later to add the others, which are essential for the conclusion of the analysis. This never occurred, despite the BCV reiterating the need to send the missing items in November 2017.

This is not an issue of obstruction, as Bank of Cabo Verde is simply carrying out its responsibilities and functions as a regulator and supervisor, it said.

The statement further clarified that the BCV reserves the right to refuse authorization when an extensive set of requirements is not met, particularly when the application for authorization is not accompanied by all necessary information and documents. MDT/MacauhubMotivational speaker and entrepreneur Brian Cha conducted a workshop on sales and consumer behavior last week at The Venetian Macao, as part of the Celebrity Mentor Workshop Series, co-organized by the Macao Government Tourism Office and Sands China Ltd.

Launched last month, the new training program invites celebrity mentors to conduct customer service workshops for retailers in Macau, including

employees of the retail outlets at Sands Shoppes.

According to a statement issued by the gaming operator, the workshops give retail employees a chance to learn from experts in their respective fields.

Around 120 retail professionals attended Chas session at The Venetians Adelson Advanced Education Center, where he covered topics such as using the latest sales techniques and attracting customers to take a proactive approach while shopping.

Four workshops have been planned for the Celebrity Mentor project and each session intends to train around 120 participants. The first workshop in

the series was conducted last month by Hong Kong actress and UK-accredited

trainer Astrid Chan on the topic of personal branding.

Wynn donates MOP 600,000 to Tung Sin Tong

To support Tung Sin Tongs annual fundraising campaign, Wynn has contributed MOP 600,000 this year to support its charitable efforts and nourish the spirit of local philanthropy.

The gaming operator organized for 1,300 team members and their families to take part in the annual charity walk Walk for a Million.

This donation is made to support the expansion of Tung Sin Tongs social welfare services, providing much-needed assistance to the underprivileged in the community.

Several of the gaming operators executives led by Ian Michael Coughlan, president and executive director of Wynn Macau, held a cheque presentation ceremony at Wynn Palace.

According to the gaming operator, it has been actively encouraging its team members to participate in the fundraising campaigns of the Charity Fund.The Philippine Consulate General has ushered in the month by holding its annual Christmas Party for the members of the Filipino community, attracting over 500 migrant workers.

Held yesterday at Chan Meng Kam Theater, the event, Paskong Pinoy, which means Filipino Christmas, featured a series of performances, games, raffle draws and food sharing.

The event is held annually every first Sunday of December. Consul general Lilybeth Deapera explained that the consulate aims to gather the Filipino community to feel the spirit of Christmas, as the date is heavily celebrated in the Philippines.

Paskong Pinoy is an annual event for the members of the Filipino community where we celebrate Christmas for them. [] We hold it in the first week of December because a lot of members of the Filipino community will go back home before Christmas day, the official explained.

Although several migrant groups and associations are also set to hold their own Christmas events, the official noted that the event held by the consulate shows the cooperation between the several migrant groups in the city.

According to Deapera, the annual event is recording a yearly increase.

When I first welcomed the participants, [I noticed] there were a lot of first timers and I liked it especially because it means that there are more and more members of the community who get to know their compatriots, said the official.

Its a good testimony of the unity amongst the members of the community, she added.

Meanwhile, several members of the community recalled how they celebrate Christmas in the Philippines, noting that the event is the closest to home this festive season.

We are far from our families so we want to experience the spirit of Christmas and experience Christmas with [our fellow compatriots] in Macau. We feel happy because we are gathered today, said a worker who attended the event for the first time.

Its important for us because we usually feel sad [during this season] being away from our families, so these kinds of events help to remove our homesickness, she added.

Echoing the same sentiments, another migrant worker said, We miss Christmas back home but we feel it here too during these kinds of gatherings, so we really appreciate this event as a way for us to gather and to show unity.

Held from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., the event also attracted a growing number of sponsors from the Filipino businesses in the city and in Hong Kong. LVAbout 300 West Papuan demonstrators calling for independence for the restive Indonesian region faced off with counterprotesters Saturday in the countrys second-largest city.

The demonstrators in Surabaya chanted Freedom Papua and held banners demanding a referendum for independence to mark Dec. 1, which many West Papuans consider the anniversary of what they say should have been their independence.

We are demanding the truth of our history, a speaker shouted at the crowd at the rally, which was organized by the Papua Students Alliance. Referendum for independence is the right solution for the people of Papua.

The crowd, including many wearing headbands with the morning star flag as a separatist group symbol, was blocked from marching to the city center by scores of counterprotesters from several youth organizations in Surabaya, the capital of East Java province. Some confronted the pro-independence protesters with sharpened bamboos.

You may rally to voice your aspiration, but dont bring the separatist issue, said a speaker from the rival group. Papua is a part of Indonesia forever, and we are willing to die to defend the unitary state of Indonesia.

Members of the two camps pushed each other, but several hundred anti- riot police prevented the two groups from clashing, said East Java police spokesman Frans Barung Mangera.

The protest ended after about two hours. No one was detained by police, Mangera said.

The Free Papua Movement, a separatist group in Indonesias restive Papua province, declared independence from Dutch rule on Dec. 1, 1961. That was rejected by the Dutch and later by Indonesia.

Papua, a former Dutch colony in the western part of New Guinea, was incorporated into Indonesia in 1969 after a U.N.-sponsored ballot that was seen as a sham by many. A small, poorly armed separatist group has been battling for independence since then.

For years, a low-level insurgency has plagued the mineral-rich region, which is ethnically and culturally distinct from much of Indonesia.

Indonesias government, which for decades had a policy of sending Javanese and other Indonesians to settle in Papua, is now also trying to spur economic development to dampen the separatist movement. APA number of migrant groups were disappointed with lawmaker Sulu Sous new minimum wage proposal.

The bill does not address some of the most vulnerable groups among Macaus working population  domestic workers and workers with disabilities  citing a lack of consensus on this matter.

The migrant groups described the move as unfair, noting that they are upset with his decision, recalling that Sou had previously showed support to migrant workers  particularly domestic workers.

Chairperson of the Green Philippines Migrant Workers Union, Nedie Taberdo, explained, When Sou won as a legislator, he mentioned his support to the domestic workers so we were expecting that he was with us on this fight for migrant workers rights.

So when he created this proposal that did not include domestic workers and the disabled, we were very disappointed. Its upsetting and disappointing because we expected that he will also fight for our rights, Taberdo added.

Several migrant groups in the city have been fighting for protection rights, along with an established minimum wage law for domestic workers.

Yet for them, the region has no progress towards this matter, recalling that even the housing allowance, which currently stands at MOP500, has not changed for over a decade.

Although the decision not to include domestic workers on the bill was based on public consultation, Taberdo argued that those who participated from the public are likely to be employers only, noting that they are not permitted to participate in such consultations.

Maybe the consultation should be from people from all walks of life, even migrant workers, who are also a part of the growing society, Taberdo said.

Meanwhile, president of the Progressive Labour Union of Domestic Workers, Jasmine Santos, echoed the same sentiments, stressing that they are still looking for ways to be heard by the government in a bid to establish a minimum wage law for the vulnerable groups.

We were expecting that Sou would include the domestic workers in the proposed bill. When we werent included, along with the disabled, we were dismayed but we will keep on looking for ways to speak with the government, said Santos.

Both Taberdo and Santos, along with other groups and individuals, are working on ways to create dialogues with the Labour Affairs Bureau, which they are hoping to occur in January.

Just so they can hear our side and were really hoping that something would come out of this, said Santos.

I know theyve been hearing our complaints because they themselves have their helpers, so we just need to continually call on them and remind them of the actions that should be taken, she added.

The groups are calling for changes to their standard contracts, minimum wage law and the removal of the six month ban when workers are fired.Nordic Innovation House, an organization of Nordic countries aiming to promote cross-border cooperation on innovation, launched its branch in Hong Kong last week, hoping to tap business opportunities in the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area.

Nordic Innovation House aims to combine Nordic companies innovations in life science, clean-tech, EdTech and smart cities with Hong Hongs strategy of being a world-class innovation hub and smart city. It will also encourage more Nordic innovative startups to seek opportunities in the Greater Bay area.

Nordic Innovation House operates under the Nordic Council of Ministers, the official body for inter-governmental cooperation in the Nordic region. We see Hong Kong as a special blend of the West and the East and a good platform for Nordic companies. And its a good time [to establish a Nordic Innovation House branch in Hong Kong] because of the development of the Greater Bay region, Secretary General of the Nordic Council of Ministers Dagfinn Hoybraten told Xinhua after the opening ceremony for the Hong Kong branch.

Our doors are wide open and welcoming to entrepreneurs and startups from Nordic countries. Nordic Innovation House can only enhance your connections to Hong Kong opportunity, Carrie Lam, chief executive of Chinas Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, said at the ceremony.

The opportunity has been brought by the fast-emerging Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area and Lam affirmed that Hong Kong the Nordic companies that connect with Hong Kong will be at the heart of the Greater Bay Area. I am confident that we wll excel working together. MDT/XinhuaThe two women in the photograph were smiling, but Halmurat Idris knew something was terribly wrong. One was his 39-year-old sister; standing at her side was an elderly woman Idris did not know. Their grins were tight-lipped, mirthless. Her sister had posted the picture on a social media account along with a caption punctuated by a smiley-face.

Look, I have a Han Chinese mother now! his sister wrote. Idris knew instantly: The old woman was a spy, sent by the Chinese government to infiltrate his family.

There are many like her. According to the ruling Communist Partys official newspaper, as of the end of September, 1.1 million local government workers have been deployed to ethnic minorities living rooms, dining areas and Muslim prayer spaces, not to mention at weddings, funerals and other occasions once considered intimate and private.

All this is taking place in Chinas far west region of Xinjiang, home to the predominantly Muslim, Turkic-speaking Uighurs, who have long reported discrimination at the hands of the countrys majority Han Chinese.

While government notices about the Pair Up and Become Family program portray it as an affectionate cultural exchange, Uighurs living in exile in Turkey said their loved ones saw the campaign as a chilling intrusion into the only place that they once felt safe.

They believe the program is aimed at coercing Uighurs into living secular lives like the Han majority. Anything diverging from the partys prescribed lifestyle can be viewed by authorities as a sign of potential extremism.

Under Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Uighur homeland has been blanketed with stifling surveillance, from armed checkpoints on street corners to facial-recognition-equipped CCTV cameras steadily surveying passers-by. Now, Uighurs say, they must live under the watchful eye of the ruling Communist Party even inside their own homes.

The government is trying to destroy that last protected space in which Uighurs have been able to maintain their identity, said Joanne Smith Finley, an ethnographer at Englands Newcastle University.

The Associated Press spoke to five Uighurs living in Istanbul who shared the experiences of their family members in Xinjiang who have had to host Han Chinese civil servants. These accounts are based on prior communications with their family members, the majority of whom have since cut off contact because Uighurs can be punished for speaking to people abroad.

Uighurs abroad said their loved ones were constantly on edge in their own homes, knowing that any misstep  a misplaced Quran, a carelessly spoken word  could lead to detention or worse. In the presence of these faux relatives, their family members could not pray or wear religious garbs, and the cadres were privy to their every move.

The thought of it  and the sight of his sister, the old woman and their false smiles  made Idris queasy.

I wanted to throw up, said the 49-year-old petroleum engineer, shaking his head in disgust.

The moment I saw the old woman, I thought, Ugh, this person is our enemy. If your enemy became your mother, think about it  how would you feel?

Tensions between Muslim minorities and Han Chinese have bubbled over in recent years, resulting in violent attacks pegged to Uighur separatists and a fierce government crackdown on broadly defined extremism that has placed as many as 1 million Muslims in internment camps, according to estimates by experts and a human rights group.

Uighurs say the omnipresent threat of being sent to one of these centers, which are described as political indoctrination camps by former detainees, looms large in their relatives minds when they are forced to welcome party members into their homes.

Last December, Xinjiang authorities organized a Becoming Family Week which placed more than 1 million cadres in minority households. Government reports on the program gushed about the warm family reunions, as public servants and Uighurs shared meals and even beds.

Becoming Family Week turned out to be a test run for a standardized homestay program. The Xinjiang United Front Work Department said in February that government workers should live with their assigned families every two months, for five days at a time.

Not all Become Family pairings involve Han Chinese visitors. A Uighur cadre named Gu Li said she regularly pays visits to a Uighur household, staying three to five days at a time.

Weve already started calling each other family, she said in a telephone interview from Xinjiang. Chinas 56 ethnic groups are all one family.

Gu said civil servants of many ethnicities  Uighur, Han and Kazakh  participate in the program.

All government employees in the region are required to conduct such visits in order to better understand villagers needs, according to Gu: Because were always sitting in our offices, we dont know what they really need. Only through penetrating the masses can we truly serve them. Dake Kang, Yanan Wang, APLawmaker Au Kam San had a round of face-to-face discussions with Secretary for Security, Wong Sio Chak, regarding the former being accused of slander by the police.

During the second day of the police address presentation for the security sector, Au indicated that if the police wants to stop other people from accusing the police authority of illegal interception by filing a lawsuit against them, then he is not afraid of threats. Au believes that the polices accusation will lead to more people paying attention to police interception practices.

If a lawmaker can get himself in lawsuit trouble because he openly expressed doubts, then how can the ordinary residents and journalists, or professional people speak more? Au questioned.

Au pointed out that, in reality, there are quite a few people who are not criminals yet have a strong feeling that they are being intercepted. Au remarked that there were even people from the Chief Executives office who had to move the phone to another room before they could talk freely about social issues.

Au also pointed out that some of the public fiercely opposes illegal interceptions, while others believe that if the police do not conduct illegal interceptions, then they could not figure out a single case.

However, regardless of what kind of opinion people have, they are not having a single doubt about part of the police actions involving illegal interceptions.

The veteran lawmaker believes that if the government wants to extend interceptions, the police force has to build a mechanism to increase transparency.

Responding to Au, Wong started by saying that he does not understand why there are people complaining about interceptions having to be conducted by the police authority. He also said that, while in the middle of a meeting, he would also move to another room to answer his phone call.

Should I claim the Judiciary Police intercepted me? Wong asked.

Regarding Aus case, Wong noted that everybody should be responsible for their behavior and words.

Even if you do not need to be responsible today, you cannot shoot your mouth off, said Wong.

If you would do such thing on purpose, and then you tell people that you are not afraid of threats, and that you are not afraid of lawsuits, [then that person would be] actually telling people deliberately in order to become famous. I dont know if this is true. I am not daring to say it. But if it really is true, and the person doing it is a lawmaker, I feel I will be so unhappy deep in my heart, said Wong.

Wong noted that the Judiciary Police has already handed out prosecution letters to the prosecution office. He believes that the prosecution authority will handle the case fairly.

Wong further noted that he feels something is amiss about Au having received information about the arson but not reporting it to the police, yet still accusing the police of interception. Wong said that he is really uncomfortable with this.

Actually, if you dont mention it, I will not mention it. But you mentioned it. Therefore, if I dont mention it, I feel like I should say sorry to you []. These two days, my handshakes with you have all been sincere, said Wong.

Two months ago, the Judiciary Police urged lawmaker Au to apologize to the police authority over a false accusation.

According to the PJs statement, Au accused the police of illegal interception of a resident who had planned to burn himself inside a police station while he was being interviewed by a local Chinese newspaper. Eventually, the lawmaker did not apologize, and the police filed the lawsuit against Au.

Secretary wants to establish national security educational facility

Secretary for Security, Wong Sio Chak, said that national security education within the security forces will become a trend in Macau.

During Fridays debate at the Legislative Assembly, lawmakers Angela Leong, Lam Lon Wai and Chui Sai Peng asked about national security matters.

Leong focused on the training of talented people for collecting information on national security.

Chui suggested using part of the Pac On ferry terminal, or the old information bureau located at R. de Sao Domingos, for the opening of a national security education complex. Chui also proposed providing national security training courses to prisoners and police to inform them of their responsibilities in terms of protecting national security.

Lam proposed the establishment of a permanent and regular national security education system aimed at residents and young people.

Replying to the lawmakers, Wong agreed with their proposal regarding the opening of a permanent national security education facility. However, the Secretary worried that the difficulty lies in finding a proper location. He declared that the topic is worth discussing once the city has met the conditions to open such a facility.

Furthermore, Wong said that, in the past, although national security exhibitions were actively attended, and exhibitions could be reviewed online, having a physical entity can provide a more vivid image to students while teaching them important matters about national security, and deems a permanent facility to be vital. Most noticeably, having a permanent facility featuring national security will allow local schools to better distribute students during visits.

As for the location at the Pac On ferry terminal, Wong said that the issue needs to be discussed between the security forces and other governmental departments, and it has to be coordinated by the Chief Executive.

In addition, Wong said that including national security within the police forces education must become the trend in the future.

Regarding the education of prisoners on national security, Wong believes it is unnecessary at the current stage. JZ

Ng Kuok Cheong calls for new department

Ng Kuok Cheong suggested that a new department should be established to accept specific complaints and to conduct disciplinary investigations. Secretary Wong disagreed, explaining that such work will result in the incomplete leadership of security force leaders. Wong voiced that it is impossible in the entire world for a person in charge to lack the rights of disciplinary supervision and investigation. In addition, he pointed out that if such a department had the right to investigate, then it could only be led by the Chief Executive. This, in turn, would harm the concerned partys right of appeal. According to Wong, in the first month of this year, 268 disciplinary investigations were recorded and involved the punishment of 295 people. Wong explained that if half of these people appeal, then the administration court, which only has two judges, will not be capable of handling the large number of cases.Singapore, which is increasingly using technology to combat money laundering and terrorism financing, faces a shortage of skilled data analysts who can help banks track down illicit cash flows.

The skills gap could be addressed by importing foreign talent and training locals, according to a report released last week by a partnership of banks, the financial regulator and police. Lenders in Singapore have been looking at using data analytics to detect suspicious transactions because current systems yield too many false alerts and manual processes are vulnerable to human error, it found.

On a national level, the relevant talent pool in Singapore needs to be grown significantly to meet this demand, the report said. This can be achieved through the importing of talent from outside Singapore as well as through the upskilling of Singapores existing workforce.

Singapore is stepping up efforts to tackle white-collar crime as it seeks to build on its status as one of Asias biggest financial centers. High-profile cases such as the 1MDB embezzlement scandal are increasingly involving large networks of sophisticated cross-

border fund transfers, underscoring the challenge for banks and regulators dealing with thousands of dubious transactions each year.

The Singapore government has recently signaled that its willing to ease some restrictions on importing labor for the financial-technology industry and other sectors where its facing talent shortages. The city-state tightened its immigration policy following 2011 elections, when residents voiced worries that an influx of foreign workers in the past decade had strained services, driven up competition for real estate and threatened jobs.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore strongly encourages the use of data analytics in anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism, said Ho Hern Shin, assistant managing director, banking and insurance, at MAS. It has the potential for bringing about transformative change in our approach to combating financial crime, she said.

Singapores three major banks  DBS Group Holdings Ltd., Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp. and United Overseas Bank Ltd.  have started using artificial intelligence and data analytics to help enhance their detection of illicit flows. According to the report, one bank reported a 50 percent to 60 percent reduction in so-called false positives in a test that used AI.

Any option that improves detection yield from the current situation  where often, nine out of 10 cases is a false positive  should be explored, said Lam Chee Kin, DBSs head of legal, compliance and secretariat. While we are in early days and making marginal improvements, there is promise, said Lam, who also heads the data analytics working group that wrote the report.

The working group was set up by a government-industry partnership aimed at fighting money laundering and terrorism financing. Formed last year, the partnership includes banks and is co-chaired by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and the Commercial Affairs Department, the white-collar crime unit of the nations police force. Chanyaporn Chanjaroen, BloombergThe leaders of the two world superpowers, the USA and the USSR, have declared an end to the Cold War after two days of storm-lashed talks at the Malta summit.

At a joint news conference held on board the Soviet cruise ship, Maxim Gorky, the two men announced they had set the stage for big reductions in troops and weapons in Europe.

The Soviet leader, Mikhail Gorbachev, also said: I assured the President of the United States that I will never start a hot war against the USA.

For his part, US President George Bush said: We can realise a lasting peace and transform the East-West relationship to one of enduring co-operation. That is the future that Chairman Gorbachev and I began right here in Malta.

The Malta summit is being hailed as the most important since 1945 when Churchill, Stalin and Roosevelt agreed a post-war plan for Europe at Yalta.

The two men have met face-to-face for the first time against a backdrop of fast-moving change in Eastern Europe.

In the past few weeks Hungary has opened its borders with the West, the Berlin Wall has fallen, followed by the government of Czechoslovakia. Only yesterday the fledgling East German government of only seven weeks was also forced to resign.

Both leaders spoke hopefully of the changes sweeping Eastern Europe  but they also spoke of the need for caution, particularly with regard to the future of Germany and the prospect of reunification.

Mr Bush said: It is not for the United States to dictate the pace of change in Germany or anywhere else.

Mr Gorbachev said: The world is leaving one epoch and entering another. We are at the beginning of a long road to a lasting, peaceful era.

The threat of force, mistrust, psychological and ideological struggle should all be things of the past.

The summit was not all plain sailing. High winds and heavy seas yesterday left the American president stranded aboard his cruiser in Marsaxlokk Bay.

An afternoon session of talks had to be abandoned while the Russians waited in vain for Mr Bush to arrive on their ship, the Maxim Gorky, which was moored in a calmer position.

A joint dinner was also cancelled as the president remained marooned.

A final eight-hour round of talks was held today aboard the Maxim Gorky, during which differences emerged over policy on Central America and cuts in naval forces.

Mr Bush is due to brief NATO leaders in Brussels, where he will fly tonight. Mr Gorbachev will address members of the Warsaw Pact tomorrow.

The two men have agreed to hold another summit in June next year.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

The Malta summit is regarded by many as the official end of the Cold War, although little of substance was actually agreed.

The summit followed a series of arms-reduction treaties between the two superpowers, including Salt II in 1979 and the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces treaty in 1987.

Presidents Bush and Gorbachev went on to sign a treaty on Conventional Forces in Europe in November 1990, establishing parity between East and West, and the first of the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaties (Start) in December 1991.

The collapse of Communism in Eastern Europe continued with the fall of the Romanian government and the reunification of Germany in 1990.

Although Mikhail Gorbachev was seen as a hero by the outside world, within the Soviet Union the slow progress of reform and declining economic conditions eventually led to the break-up of the union and his resignation in December 1991.The United States and China reached a 90-day cease-fire in a trade dispute that has rattled financial markets and threatened world economic growth. The breakthrough came after a dinner meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the Group of 20 summit in Buenos Aires.

Trump agreed to hold off on plans to raise tariffs Jan. 1 on USD200 billion in Chinese goods. The Chinese agreed to buy a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial amount of agricultural, energy, industrial and other products from the United States to reduce Americas huge trade deficit with China, the White House said.

The truce, reached after a dinner of more than two hours Saturday, buys time for the two countries to work out their differences in a dispute over Beijings aggressive drive to supplant U.S. technological dominance.

Its an incredible deal, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, adding, if it happens it goes down as one of the largest deals ever made.

Trump said: What Ill be doing is holding back on tariffs. China will be opening up, China will be getting rid of tariffs.  China will be buying massive amounts of products from us.

In a long-sought concession to the U.S., China agreed to label fentanyl, the deadly synthetic opioid responsible for tens of thousands of American drug deaths annually, as a controlled substance. And Beijing agreed to reconsider a takeover by U.S. chipmaker Qualcomm that it had previously blocked.

The White House announcement framed a victory for Trump and his unflinching negotiating tactics, securing a commitment from China to engage in talks on key U.S. economic priorities, with little obvious concession by the U.S. Notably, however, the White House appears to be reversing course on its previous threats to tie trade discussions to security concerns, like Chinas attempted territorial expansion in the South China Sea.

Its great the two sides took advantage of this opportunity to call a truce, said Andy Rothman, investment strategist at Matthews Asia. The two sides appear to have had a major change of heart to move away from confrontation toward engagement. This changes the tone and direction of the bilateral conversation.

The Trump-Xi meeting was the marquee event of Trumps whirlwind two-day trip to Argentina for the G-20 summit after the president canceled a sit-down with Russian President Vladimir Putin over mounting tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Trump also canceled a Saturday news conference, citing respect for the Bush family following the death of former President George H.W. Bush.

Trump said Bushs death put a damper on what he described as a very important meeting with Xi.

The United States and China are locked in a dispute over their trade imbalance and Beijings tech policies. Washington accuses China of deploying predatory tactics in its tech drive, including stealing trade secrets and forcing American firms to hand over technology in exchange for access to the Chinese market.

Trump has imposed import taxes on $250 billion in Chinese products  25 percent on $50 billion worth and 10 percent on the other $200 billion. Trump had planned to raise the tariffs on the $200 billion to 25 percent if he couldnt get a deal with Xi.

China has already slapped tariffs on $110 billion in U.S. goods.

Under the agreement reached in Buenos Aires, the two countries have 90 days to resolve their differences over Beijings tech policies. If they cant, the higher U.S. tariffs will go into effect on the $200 billion in Chinese imports.

U.S. officials insist that the American economy is more resilient to the tumult than Chinas, but they remain anxious of the economic effects of a prolonged showdown  as Trump has made economic growth the benchmark by which he wants his administration judged.

A full-blown resolution was not expected to be reached in Buenos Aires; the issues that divide them are just too difficult.

Growing concerns that the trade war will increasingly hurt corporate earnings and the U.S. economy are a key reason why U.S. stock prices have been sinking this fall.

Joining other forecasters, economists at the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development last week downgraded their outlook for global economic growth next year to 3.5 percent from a previous 3.7 percent. In doing so, they cited the trade conflict as well as political uncertainty.

The U.S. and China also made progress on the regulation of fentanyl, which is 50 times more powerful than heroin. U.S. officials for years have been pressing the Chinese government to take a tougher stance against fentanyl, and most U.S. supply of the drug is manufactured in China.

White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said Chinas decision to label the drug as a controlled substance means that people selling Fentanyl to the United States will be subject to Chinas maximum penalty under the law.

The White House also said that Chinas government is open to approving the purchase of Dutch semiconductor manufacturer NXP by American chipmaker Qualcomm.

China nixed the proposed takeover earlier this year, citing antitrust concerns, after U.S. and European regulators approved the deal. Chinas decision came amid a period of heightening tensions between the U.S. and China over trade and intellectual property issues.

Qualcomm announced it was dropping plans to proceed with the deal after it failed to receive Chinese government approval. It is unclear whether the transaction could be revived even with Chinas acquiescence.

In other developments, Trump announced aboard Air Force One on his return to Washington from Buenos Aires that his next meeting with North Koreas Kim Jong Un would likely happen in January or February. He said there were three sites under consideration, but he declined to name them.

Trump also said he would shortly be providing formal notice to Congress that he will terminate the North American Free Trade Agreement, giving lawmakers six months to approve the replacement he signed Friday. He said lawmakers can choose between the replacement, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or nothing. APA court in northern Vietnam on Friday jailed two former police generals for protecting a multimillion-dollar online gambling ring as the Communist government steps up its crackdown on graft.

Former national police chief Phan Van Vinh and former head of hi-tech crimes police department Nguyen Thanh Hoa were sentenced to nine and 10 years respectively after being convicted of abuse of power at the end of the three- week trial by the Peoples Court in Phu Tho province.

Two gambling ring leaders, Nguyen Van Duong, former chairman of the private company CNC, and Phan San Nam, former chairman of VTC Online joint stock company, were sentenced to 10 and five years respectively for organizing gambling and money laundering.

The ring had operated from April 2015 until it was broken up in August last year with some USD425 million having been gambled online. The ring made $200 million in illegal profits, according to the government.

They were among 92 defendants involved in the case.

Vinhs acts have caused discontent among the public, reduced the reputation of the police force and peoples trust, state-run Tuoi Tre newspaper quoted the verdict as saying. Vinh had intentionally covered up the crimes committed by Duong and his accomplices.

Vinh, who was general director of the General Department of Police under the Ministry of Public Security until his retirement two years ago, was arrested in July while Hoa was arrested a month earlier. Following their arrests, the ministry stripped both men of their ranks.

The two allowed CNC company to rent an office from the General Department of Police, which indirectly facilitated the crimes and hindered their staff and other agencies in investigating the gambling ring, the verdict said.

During the hearing, prosecutors quoted Duong as telling police investigators that he bribed Vinh with $2.8 million, a $7,000 Rolex watch and gave Hoa $936,000, state media reported.

The verdict, however, said there has been no evidence to prove the two former police generals were involved in bribery.

The foreign media were not allowed to cover the trial.

Vietnams unprecedented crackdown on graft had previously focused on corruption at the state energy giant PetroVietnam and the banking sector but appears to be spreading to the police force.

Scores of PetroVietnam senior officials and bankers have been brought to trial, the most high-ranking of them being Dinh La Thang, a former Politburo member who was sentenced to a total of 31 years in prison for mismanagement in two separate cases earlier this year dating to his time leading PetroVietnam.

He was the first Politburo member to be jailed in decades. APFrom left: Pinaki Bose and Lubaba (Aurna) Khan sourced big data to try to explain why some cancer patients respond to immunotherapy while others do not. The findings are published in Nature Communications. Credit: Riley Brandt, University of Calgary

It's a popular question: What did you do over the summer? For Lubaba (Aurna) Khan, the summer of 2018 will be one she will never forget.

It started on a high note and ended on an even higher one. In June, Khan walked across the stage to accept her degree as a University of Calgary Bachelor of Health Sciences graduate. She received an O'Brien Centre Summer Studentships award, landing a research job with Dr. Pinaki Bose, Ph.D. Then, unexpectedly, she made a discovery that could help cancer patients throughout the world.

Khan spent the summer hunched over a computer interpreting free, publicly accessible health and genomics data. "Bioinformatics is the new frontier of medical science," says Khan. "I started my medical education as a biomedical student, looking at cells through a microscope, but looking at cancer biology with the assistance of a computer opens up a new way of thinking about research."

Khan was comparing the differences between genes found in cancer cells and those found in normal cells. Working under the guidance of Bose, Khan learned how to construct questions and hypotheses. It was a bumpy start.

"We wanted to find out how immune genes in cancer cells might be associated with immunotherapy response. There was nothing there, and we were disappointed," says Bose, who is an adjunct assistant professor in the departments of biochemistry and molecular biology, and oncology, and is a member of the Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute at the Cumming School of Medicine.

"We adjusted our focus, and discovered that another set of genes, those associated with the extracellular matrix, had a direct connection to how cancer patients respond to immunotherapy."

Immunotherapy has become a popular treatment for some cancers. It uses the body's own immune system to attack and kill cancer cells. The treatment is effective, but only for a select few, around 20 to 30 per cent of patients. There is not a clear understanding as to why some people respond better to immunotherapy than others.

The extracellular matrix may hold some of the answers; it grows within and around both healthy and cancerous cells.

"We found that genes associated with the extracellular matrix are overly produced in patients who do not respond to immunotherapy," says Bose, who is also the director of translational research for the Ohlson Research Initiative. "These genes are produced by cells surrounding the tumour, and they form a barrier which helps cancer cells evade detection by the immune system."

The UCalgary team shared the discovery with researchers at the University of Toronto who have validated the findings, now published in Nature Communications. "I was like, wow, I'm a student. I didn't realize how important this was until Dr. Bose pointed out how significant this discovery could be in cancer treatment. It kind of threw me off, but I was extremely excited at the same time," says Khan, who is a co-first author on the study.

The researchers looked more deeply at their findings and discovered a gene signature, which could lead to the development of a simple test that could help determine which patients would benefit from immunotherapy. The next step will be to prove the findings in a lab.

"Analyzing big data won't replace bench science, but it a great tool for hypothesis-building and leading to new insights," says Bose.

For Khan, this experience has changed the course of her future studies. She always planned to pursue a master's degree in public health, and now sees a future focused on data analysis rather than data collection.

Explore further Gene signature discovery may predict response to immune therapy

More information: TGF--associated extracellular matrix genes link cancer-associated fibroblasts to immune evasion and immunotherapy failure, Nature Communications (2018). www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-06654-8 Journal information: Nature Communications TGF--associated extracellular matrix genes link cancer-associated fibroblasts to immune evasion and immunotherapy failure,(2018). DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.1410639(HealthDay)More than 15 million homes in the United States get their water from private wells, according to federal estimates.

While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulates public drinking water, people with private wells need to check their water themselves, along with other maintenance steps.

This is especially important if you're thinking about having a baby. Many studies over the past 15 years have found a greater risk of birth defects in babies whose mothers drank well water with concentrations of certain contaminants.

You can't rely on how your water looks coming out of the faucet to evaluate its safety. That's because dangerous contaminants don't always affect color or smell. One example is nitrate, a chemical found in many fertilizers that can leech into the water table. It's long been linked to birth defects like limb deformities and cleft palates.

A 2016 study done at the Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Public Health and published in the journal Current Environmental Health Reports linked two other common substances to birth defects: atrazine and arsenic. Atrazine is an herbicide that can get into soil and groundwater. Arsenic most often leeches into water naturally, from bedrock, but that doesn't make it less dangerous.

Various types of birth defects have been seen when two or more of these contaminants are present at the same time.

If a private well is your primary source of drinking water, ask your local health department how to find a water testing facility near you, or call the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.

Explore further Checking water quality at the tap

More information: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has detailed information on The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has detailed information on well testing , along with other topics concerning private wells.

Copyright  2018 HealthDay. All rights reserved.A follow-up analysis of patients enrolled in a Phase I/II multi-center trial for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) reported 51 percent of patients receiving an anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR T) called axi-cel were still alive two years post-treatment. Axi-cel was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treatment of DLBCL in October 2017 and by the European Commission in August 2018.

The study, co-led by Sattva Neelapu, M.D., professor of Lymphoma & Myeloma at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, reported its findings in the Dec. 2 online issue of The Lancet Oncology and during a presentation at the 60th American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting & Exposition in San Diego.

"This two-year assessment demonstrates that axi-cel can induce durable remissions in a substantial proportion of patients with an acceptable long-term safety profile," said Neelapu. "There also is evidence of gradual B-cell recovery in most patients with refractory large B-cell lymphoma who otherwise have limited treatment options."

With a median follow-up of 27.1 months for 101 patients enrolled in Phase II, the study found that 83 percent of patients achieved a reduction in cancer activity tied to treatment, known as an objective response; 58 percent had no detectable cancer or a complete response, and 39 percent reported ongoing responses. Median overall survival was not reached, and no axi-cel related adverse effects were reported after the 12-month period.

The results mirrored findings of a previously reported median follow up of 15.4 months at which time objective response rate was 82 percent, complete response rate was 58 percent, with 42 percent of patients reporting ongoing responses.

In addition, exploratory analyses were performed to assess CAR T-cell persistence and B-cell recovery in patients with ongoing remission, and at 24 months, persisting CAR gene-marked cells were observed in 66 percent of patients with evaluable biomarker samples. Peripheral blood B-cells were measurable in 75 percent of patients.

'Real-world' outcomes support ZUMA-1 findings

A subsequent "real-world" assessment of 274 patients who received axi-cel, post FDA-approval of the therapy revealed similar results to the overall ZUMA-1 study. The real-world retrospective study included 17 centers that contributed data independent from the manufacturer-funded trial.

Findings from the study, led by Loretta Nastoupil, M.D., assistant professor of Lymphoma & Myeloma, were presented Dec. 1 at the ASH Annual Meeting & Exposition. By day 90, the real-world assessment reported 81 percent of patients had an objective response and 57 percent had a complete response.

"Although limited by a relatively short follow up, 90-day responses in the real-world setting are comparable to the best responses observed in the pivotal ZUMA-1 clinical trial," said Nastoupil. "Importantly, safety appears comparable to the ZUMA-1 trial despite nearly half of patients failing to meet ZUMA-1 eligibility criteria."

Explore further Global trial shows CAR T therapy can lead to durable remissions in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma(HealthDay)Among patients with employer-sponsored insurance, there was a decline in visits to primary care physicians (PCPs) from 2012 to 2016, according to a brief released Nov. 15 by the Health Care Cost Institute (HCCI).

Amanda Frost, Ph.D., and John Hargraves, M.P.P., from HCCI, used deidentified commercial health insurance claim lines from four major insurers (Aetna, Humana, Kaiser Permanente, and United Healthcare) to assess trends in primary care visits.

The researchers found that office visits to PCPs declined 18 percent from 2012 to 2016. However, visits to nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) increased 129 percent. The rise in visits to NPs and PAs accounted for 42 percent of the decline in PCP visits. Between 2012 and 2016, every state saw a decline in PCP office visits, with the biggest cumulative declines seen in North Dakota, Minnesota, and Kentucky. North Dakota, Minnesota, and Nebraska saw the largest cumulative increases in office visits to NPs and PAs from 2012 to 2016.

"Our work demonstrates that there is geographic variation in office visit utilization, which is likely influenced by differences in these laws [governing scope of practice], but more research is needed on those relationships," the authors write.

More information: More Information

Copyright  2018 HealthDay. All rights reserved.Credit: rawpixel via Unsplash

Why do we remain in romantic relationships that leave us unhappy and unfulfilled? The answer in two new studies co-authored by a University of Toronto researcher might surprise you.

Research published in the November issue of the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that people are less likely to initiate a breakup when they believe that their romantic partners are dependent on the relationship. Participants in the studies, even people who had been close to breaking up, were motivated to remain in unsatisfying situations because they considered not only their own desires but also how much their partners wanted and needed the relationship to continue.

"People stay in relationships for the sake of their partners, even if they feel unappreciated by them," says Emily Impett, an associate professor of psychology and director of the Relationship and Well-Being (RAW) Laboratory at U of T Mississauga. She says that there are "self-focused" reasons why people choose to remain in a relationship  because of the time, resources and emotions they've invested in it, or because they don't have good alternatives  but the research shows they also make "pro-social" altruistic decisions to stay because they feel their mates are committed.

The studies, headed by Samantha Joel, a former graduate student of Impett's who is now at Western University, with additional co-authors Geoff MacDonald, a professor of psychology at U of T, and Stephanie S. Spielmann, a U of T alumna now at Wayne State University, used online questionnaires and followup interviews to track thousands of participants.

In the first study, which looked at people in romantic relationships in general, 18 per cent of participants broke up after 10 weeks, while in the second study, 29 per cent of people who'd been contemplating breakups called it quits after two months, Impett says. Across the two studies, she says that many of those who stayed did so because "they felt that a breakup would be distressing to their partners."

Impett (pictured left) is a social personality psychologist who specializes in "giving" in close relationships  the "enormous daily sacrifices we make"  such as romantic partners who aren't in the mood "in the bedroom" to parents who unfailingly care for their children.

For example, she says the RAW Lab is looking for 200 couples who know that they will soon be moving to a new city to accommodate one partner's career ambitions, in order to investigate how they cope with the situation and challenges over time.

There's a wide range of research continuing in the field, she says, such as a large breakup study looking at why people bail in relationships and a "sex-with-an-ex" study that has so far found that sleeping with a former partner isn't harmful to people and increases positive emotions.

Impett says the next step for the research on partners' "pro-social" motivations is to get "dyadic data" that includes the second partner, for example, to see whether the perception that a breakup might be traumatic to the partner is correct.

"Also, if you're staying in a relationship and you're unhappy and your partner is able to pick up on that, that's got to have an effect on the partner," Impett says.

The goal of such studies is to eventually partner with clinical psychologists to reach couples dealing with these challenging issues, says Impett, who notes that "everyone can relatethis is people's lives," but her research is statistics-based. For example, she teaches a large undergraduate course at U of T Mississauga on interpersonal relationships where students "come in with their own lay beliefs about relationships and how they work," she says. "I ask them, 'What is the science?'"

Impett herself can appreciate the "giving" issues that she researchesshe's the mother of three children and her husband moved from San Francisco to Mississauga when she got her job in 2010.

"Life is full, and you get what you give," she says.

More information: Samantha Joel et al. How interdependent are stay/leave decisions? On staying in the relationship for the sake of the romantic partner., Journal of Personality and Social Psychology (2018). Journal information: Journal of Personality and Social Psychology Samantha Joel et al. How interdependent are stay/leave decisions? On staying in the relationship for the sake of the romantic partner.,(2018). DOI: 10.1037/pspi0000139Women in hospital medicine face major obstacles during pregnancy, parental leave and returning to work, prompting a discussion about gender equity in medicine, according to a new study from researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.

The study, published recently in the Journal of Hospital Medicine, includes wide-ranging interviews with 10 female academic hospitalists from institutions around the country. They were asked about their experiences during pregnancy, parental leave and the challenges of returning to work including barriers to breastfeeding and diminished career opportunities.

"It is commonly thought that the medical profession is more enlightened around parental support than other professions, but it really isn't," said the study's lead author Emily Gottenborg, MD, assistant professor in the division of Hospital Medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. "We found a lack of paid leave policies in academic settings, difficulty in support for breastfeeding, and loss of career opportunities when new parents return to work."

Gottenborg said hospital medicine is unique in that 47 percent of practitioners are women and 80 percent are under age 40, indicative of a large proportion of women entering the profession during a time in life when many want to start a family.

"The field poses known challenges to this population, including shift work, atypical schedules and unpredictable hours," Gottenborg said. "Our goal was to both explore the challenges to undergoing this experience and discovering solutions to support female academic hospitalists."

Most participants described inadequate paid parental leave that resulted in haggling with managers, human resources and administrative staff for time away from work with their newborns.

"All of my leave was unpaid...managed to finagle short-term disability into paying for it...the system was otherwise set up to screw me financially," one research participant said.

All of the women described significant physical challenges when working during pregnancy.

"I used to lie on the floor of my office, take a little nap, wake up, write some notes, go home, take another nap, wake up, write some more notes," a doctor reported.

Breastfeeding, extolled by the medical community for its long-term benefits to children, was an endless challenge, the study said. Privacy was often elusive.

"It's two chairs that are behind a curtain in a women's locker room in the basement of the hospital, that are tiny and gross," said one physician.

Another said this:

"I would get to work, set up, and pump while chart reviewing. Then I would go and see people...and come back to my office and pump and write a few notes. And go out and see more patients, and then pump. I was like a cow."

Some stopped breastfeeding early because of these difficulties.

Many of the physicians interviewed faced serious career challenges during this period. Sometimes they were left out of projects or not asked to participate.

"People feel they are missing out and their career suffers," Gottenborg said. "One of the reasons women are not in more leadership positions in medicine is because of these big breaks in their lives."

The study calls for a more generous paid leave policy that not only includes maternity leave but a flexible scheduling period before and after the leave to account for the challenges of pregnancy and new motherhood.

"Paid parental leave is rare in academic settings, but studies from other industries show that when women take paid leave, they are more likely to remain in the workforce 9-12 months afterward, work more weekly hours and feel more loyal to the organization," the study said.

Ultimately, Gottenborg said, if academic medicine wants to continue to attract and retain women it needs to reexamine work-life policies that often feel antiquated."As medical professionals we should be in the forefront of this kind of change," she said, "not lagging behind."

Explore further California and New Jersey family leave policies improve breastfeeding rates for some women

More information: Emily Gottenborg et al, You Can't Have It All: The Experience of Academic Hospitalists During Pregnancy, Parental Leave, and Return to Work, Journal of Hospital Medicine (2018). Journal information: Journal of Hospital Medicine Emily Gottenborg et al, You Can't Have It All: The Experience of Academic Hospitalists During Pregnancy, Parental Leave, and Return to Work,(2018). DOI: 10.12788/jhm.3076In some societies, kids are taught that theyre in control of their own happiness  which makes them more indulgent. Credit: Oleksii Synelnykov/Shutterstock.com

As early as the fifth century, the Greek philosopher Thucydides contrasted the self-control and stoicism of Spartans with the more indulgent and free-thinking citizens of Athens.

Today, unique behaviors and characteristics seem ingrained in certain cultures.

Italians wildly gesticulate when they talk. Dutch children are notably easygoing and less fussy. Russians rarely smile in public.

As developmental psychologists, we're fascinated by these differences, how they take shape and how they get passed along from one generation to the next.

Our new book, "Toddlers, Parents and Culture," explores the way a society's values influences the choices parents make  and how this, in turn, influences who their kids become.

The enduring influence of cultural values

Although genetics certainly matter, the way you behave isn't hardwired.

Over the past two decades, researchers have shown how culture can shape your personality.

In 2005, psychologist Robert McCrae and his colleagues were able to document pronounced differences in the personalities of people living in different parts of the world. For example, adults from European cultures tended to be more outgoing and open to new experiences than those from Asian cultures. Within Europe, they found that people from Northern Europe were more conscientious than their peers in Southern Europe.

Recently, we've been able to trace some of these differences to early childhood.

Parenting  perhaps not surprisingly  played a role.

Working with colleagues from 14 countries, we looked at the way broad societal values influenced how parents raise their children. We then studied how these different parenting styles shaped the behavior and personality of kids.

We did this primarily by administering questionnaires to parents around the world, asking them to describe their daily routines, hopes for their kids and methods of discipline. We then asked them to detail the behaviors of their children.

We also relied on the work of Dutch social psychologist Geert Hofstede, who, in the 1970s, asked IBM employees around the world about factors that led to work satisfaction.

We were able to compare his findings to ours, and we were surprised to see that his results correlated with our own. The cultural values that were revealed through work preferences in the 1970s could be seen in parenting practices and child temperament 40 years later.

This is important: It shows cultural values are relatively enduring, and seem to have an effect on how kids develop over time.

To think about yourself, or to think of others?

Perhaps the most well-known of these broad cultural values are individualism and collectivism.

In some societies, such as the U.S. and Netherlands, people are largely driven by pursuits that benefit themselves. They're expected to seek personal recognition and boost their own social or financial status.

In more collectivist societies, such as South Korea and Chile, high value is placed on the well-being of the larger group  typically their family, but also their workplace or country.

We found that the way parents discipline their children is strongly influenced by these social values, and likely serves to perpetuate these values from one generation to the next.

For example, compared to parents in individualist cultures, collectivist parents are much more likely, when reprimanding their kids, to direct them to "think about" their misbehavior, and how it might negatively impact those around them.

This seems to promote group harmony and prepare a child to thrive in a collectivist society. At the same time, if you're constantly being told to think about how your actions impact others, you might also be more likely to feel anxiety, guilt and shame.

Indeed, we've found that kids in collectivist cultures tend to express higher levels of sadness, fear and discomfort than children growing up in individualist societies.

Free to pursue happiness?

A second set of values we studied was indulgence versus restraint.

Some cultures, such as the U.S., Mexico and Chile, tend to permit and promote self-gratification. Others  like South Korea, Belgium and Russia  encourage restraint in the face of temptation.

These values seem to be connected to a specific set of parenting goals.

In particular, parents in indulgent societies tend to emphasize the importance of developing self-esteem and independence. For example, they expect children to entertain themselves and fall asleep on their own. When one of their kids misbehaves, they'll often suggest ways he or she can make amends and try to repair the damage.

The message kids may get from this kind of treatment is that they're the ones in control of their happiness, and that they should be able to fix their own mistakes. At the same time, when kids are expected to pursue gratification, they may be more likely to impulsively seek immediate rewards  whether it's eating candy before dinner or grabbing a toy off a shelf at a store  before getting permission.

Meanwhile, in societies that prioritize restraint, parents were more likely to shout or swear when disciplining their children.

This might make them more obedient. But it might also cause children to be less optimistic and less likely to enjoy themselves.

Is individualism the future?

Parents seem to be motivated to best prepare their kids for the world they're likely to inhabit, and what works in one culture might not necessarily work well in another.

But as our world becomes more interconnected, this diversity of parenting approaches may dwindle. In fact, most countries have become more individualistic over the last 50 years  a shift that's most pronounced in countries that have experienced the most economic development.

Nonetheless, there's still a huge difference in parenting styles and childhood development across cultures  a testament to the enduring influence of societal values.

Explore further What your kids want to tell you about social media

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.NOTICE:

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Daniela Sulbaran, 37, and Victor Bernal, 44, were busted earlier this month after undercover cops busted the alleged illicit business when they posed as new patients that needed a dental check-up, Miami-Dade Police revealed Thursday.

The alleged dental duo was charged with practicing health care without a license and Bernal got an additional charge of prescription possession with intent to sell or deliver. The pair were not licensed as dentists in the state of Florida.

According to the arrest report, undercover detectives with the Florida Department of Health and Miami-Dade police made a Nov. 15 appointment for a dental cleaning and tooth extraction, the Miami Herald reported.

When they arrived at Davco Storage & Propane  where the bus was parked  Bernal reportedly met them at the gate and then drove them to the bus

Once on the bus, he directed one of the undercover agents to sit in the dental chair inside.

Once youre there, and youre in that chair, and you dont know what hands youve landed, it could cost you your life, Miami-Dade Police Detective Alvaro Zabaleta told WSVN. Within those walls, those red walls or the red wrapping of that bus, was a fully operational dentistry.

Once inside, Sulbaran reportedly put a dental bib on the seated agent, before putting on a face mask and surgical latex gloves. After she diagnosed and offered a service to the undercover agent, she and Bernal were arrested, police said.

These types of incidents are something that the community needs to take seriously, Zabaleta said.

The property manager at Davco Storage & Propane told CBSMiami he had no idea the bus parked there was the home of an alleged criminal dentistry business.

It was surprising. I had no idea what was going on, no idea that drugs were being sold, Joseph Hunton said. My understanding about what they were doing is taking the bus to fundraisers, to schools, to blood drives. I thought they were doing something like that.

On the bus, police also confiscated a bag of prescription drugs including lidocaine, mepivacaine, ibuprofen 600 and other dental products.

Zabaleta said he hopes this incident serves as a lesson for people to do their homework when seeking medical care.

Make sure they have insurance, look for permits of the county, all of these little things that you need to do, Zabaleta said.ARCHIVED - Brits boost October foreign tourist numbers and spending figures in Spain



4.6 per cent more visitors from the UK, spending 7.5 per cent more while in Spain!

Data released by the central government on Monday show that the number of visitors to Spain from abroad in October reached 7.64 million, registering a slight 5 per cent increase over the same month in 2017 due largely to a recovery in the figures for the largest single market, the UK.

The increase was the most significant in the last 7 months, and can be attributed to a large extent to the number of British visitors rising by 4.6 per cent to 1.73 million. The second largest source of visitors, Germany, saw an increase of just 0.1 per cent to 1.22 million, while France provided 913,000 tourists (8.6 per cent more than in October 2017) and Scandinavia another 556 million (5 per cent fewer).

This means that the UK supplied 22.7 per cent of all visitors during the month, a similar proportion to that which is found in the year-to-date figures after 10 months of 2018. The overall total has reached 73.86 million, just 0.5 per cent higher than at the same point last year, while the figure for the UK stands at 16.7 million after a fall of 2.2 per cent, and the data for Germany also point to a decrease in the market (of 2.5 per cent), although totals are higher than in 2017 for France (up by 5.3 per cent) and Scandinavia (2.3 per cent).

This continued reliance on British visitors was illustrated in October by the fact that the UK provided the largest share of the market in three of the major tourist destinations (27.9 per cent in Andalucia, 38.2 per cent in the Canaries and 31.6 per cent in the Comunidad Valenciana, as well as being the second largest source of visitors in the Balearics (26.1 per cent).

But the relative stagnation in terms of visitor numbers to Spain this year does not mean that there is no growth in the international tourism sector of the Spanish economy, although expansion in 2018 has been modest so far. Spending by foreign visitors is calculated to have been 4.6 per cent higher in October at 8,148 million euros and has risen by 2.7 per cent in the year so far to 79,921 million euros, with the UK contributing 16,237 million euros (20.3 per cent of the total) following a rise of 2.5 per cent.

In other words, there may have been slightly fewer tourists coming from the UK so far this year, but they have spent more while in Spain, and in October a shorter average length of stay (7.3 days) was counteracted by higher average daily spending (128 euros) and the simple fact that there were more people contributing to the total!

Follow Murcia Today on Facebook to keep up to date with all the latest news, events and information in the Region of Murcia and the rest of Spain: https://www.facebook.com/MurciaToday/

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-->On 29 November, the SA Post Office (SAPO) announced it had cleared the backlog in its depots that affected the delivery of items to customers.

Domestic deliveries have been normalised to fall within regulated standards in the past week and these services are back to predictable daily conveyances to their destinations, it said.

SA Post Office CEO Mark Barnes praised the tireless work done to resolve the factors causing the backlog.

It is pleasing to report that these issues have now been addressed and the backlog is resolved, Barnes said.

What MyBroadbands real-world test says

Over the last 4 months MyBroadband ran an experiment to test the SA Post Offices delivery times.

For the test, MyBroadband members sent letters from across South Africa to the Lyttelton Post Office, and we tracked how long these letters took to arrive.

The results showed that the SA Post Office failed to deliver any of the ordinary mail letters within five days, as required by its licence conditions.

In fact, many of the letters took weeks to deliver instead of the days which the Post Office claims on its website.

The SA Post Offices claim to have cleared its backlog also needs further scrutiny, as two of the letters which were sent to MyBroadband have still not been delivered.

This means that either the backlog has not been cleared, or that the two letters were lost

The graphic below provides an overview of the results of MyBroadbands Post Office Test.

Post Offices email claims

MyBroadband asked the SA Post Office for comment on its poor service levels, but it failed to respond to any of the queries  some from months ago.

Barnes recently told Radio 702 that every email that gets sent to me or the business gets followed up on. Every single email.

This claim by Barnes is also questionable, as MyBroadband sent multiple emails to his address over the last few months without any response.

Here are the emails which were sent to Barnes and the SA Post Office media team, and the results from these emails.

22 March 2018  No response

21 May 2018  No response

1 August 2018  No response

14 August 2018  No response

29 November 2018  No response

MyBroadband asked the SA Post Office for comment regarding its latest statements and the delivery tests, but there was no feedback by the time of publication.Vodacom Group Ltd. is keeping some of its South African franchise stores shut after members of opposition party Economic Freedom Fighters allegedly vandalized outlets in protest of an image of their leaders at an event hosted by the wireless carrier.

In one incident, at its Mall of The North franchise store in Johannesburg, women were assaulted and goods stolen, the company said in an email. The EFF may have been responding to an image used by Corruption Watch Chairman Mavuso Msimang, Vodacom said, in which he depicted an image of the partys leaders Julius Malema and Floyd Shivambu, as abusers of democracy during a keynote address at an awards ceremony.

Vodacom respects the right of every South African to freedom of expression and to hold legal and peaceful protests, but condemns any form of violent behavior, the mobile-phone operator said in emailed comments on Monday. Vodacom is against discrimination and bigotry in all their manifestations.

Images on Twitter showed people dressed in the EFFs signature red berets and clothing entering stores or the damage caused in the aftermath of their leaving. The EFF is known for being involved in scuffles in parliament with the ruling African National Congress and other opposition parties.

There has been no official mandate, request or statement from the EFF to go to Vodacom shops and protest, said Jossey Buthane, EFF Secretary in the Limpopo province. This is being done independently by unhappy South Africans. We do understand that the Vodacom stores are owned by individual franchisees, and would therefore look for alternative recourse in this matter.

Now read: Vodacom store ransacked after comment made about EFFSome leases can be tricky to understand. Here are a few tips so that, even though some leases can last longer than some marriages, you will understand them better.

Do not be caught in a lease you do not understand, a property that does not fit your needs, a landlord that does not seem to take care of their property or a tenant who does not pass your qualifications.

I am currently working with a property owner of an industrial property and a winery tenant who wants to lease it for 15 years.

Both parties are concerned with the terms in the lease and are investigating it and the property thoroughly.

In Part 1 of this series of articles, you learned how a lease is a contract that creates a relationship that gives the tenant a right to use a property owned by the landlord.

We specifically started our discussions on the 10-page CAR (California Association of Realtors) residential lease or month-to-month rental agreement because this lease is less complex than the commercial lease we will highlight next.

Lets dive in and discuss a few of the highlights in the residential lease or month-to-month rental agreement.

When does the lease begin, and when do I get the keys?

A lease can begin on any day of the month; it is called the commencement date.

Usually, rent starts on the same day and can be prorated if not for a full month.

Possession should be given to the tenant only when the lease is signed by all parties, delivered to all parties and all amounts due paid to the landlord.

A lease is a contract and is ratified when all the parties of the contract sign, an executed copy of the agreement is provided to all the parties, and money is paid from the tenant to the landlord.

My explanation is overly simplified, but keep in mind that if a tenant does not pay the first months rent and a security deposit, which is usually required, there is no lease or rental agreement.

Pay your rent early.

The monthly rent is usually due on the first of each month and, in most cases, delinquent the next day.

Many leases allow for a grace period when rent payments can be made up to a certain number of days without incurring late fees.

A little-known fact  all tenants on the lease are each responsible individually and collectively for the entire rental amount due each month.

In most cases, unless the landlord made other arrangements if the rent is $2,000 a month and there are four tenants on the lease the landlord may take four $500 checks even though it is not smart to do so.

The problem arises when one of the tenants is unable to pay their $500, the landlord is under no obligation to accept the $1,500 and pursue collections with the one tenant.

Each tenant is individually responsible for the $2,000 payment due as well as collectively. The landlord can pursue legal action against all four tenants for the rent.

In Part 3, we will continue with our discussions on the residential lease or month-to-month rental agreement as it pertains to security deposits, the condition of the premises, maintenance and damage.

Burt M. Polson, CCIM, is an active commercial real estate broker. Reach him at 707-254-8000, or burt@acresinfo.com. Sign up for his email newsletter at BurtPolson.com.An opportunity dropped into my lap when friends called and said,Donna, pack your bags. Were on our way to Indonesia!

Indonesia is an archipelago nation made up of more than 17,500 islands with over 300 ethnic groups and 700 spoken languages. As one of the largest countries in the world, and heavily populated, it still contains many islands that remain unexplored. It is populated with indigenous villages, awe-inspiring vistas, erupting volcanoes, thousands of traditions, and people who smile, welcome strangers, and live in harmony.

After flying into Pangkalan Bun on the Indonesian part of the island of Borneo, our small group boarded a klotok, a traditional style of riverboat, for the next few days, cruising the Sekonyer River until we entered the Tanjung Putting National Park. This park protects a 140-million-year-old tropical forest that is home to an outstanding diversity of plant and animal life, including orangutans.

After a long, hot and steamy walk, we began to get up close and personal with these magnificent beasts. I was so excited. Because forests are cut down at a rapid pace to plant palm trees (illegally) for extracting palm oil, which is their liquid gold, the food for the orangutans and the habitat is shrinking. To protect the animals, the national park provides feeding stations, alternating milk and bananas or other fruit every couple of days.

Ninety percent of the worlds orangutans are in Borneo and the other 10 percent are in Sumatra. There is a huge repatriation of captured or orphaned orangutans in this park. Borneo is trying to work with Malaysia and Japan not to kill orangutan mothers for their babies. Also, they are trying to reduce the palm tree plantation encroachment.

Through our many hikes into the interior of the park to find the orangutans, I was fascinated by their amazingly long arms that enabled them to swing from tree to tree over and over as well as to stretch widely, hanging between two distant trees. As the animals would drop down for the feedings, they were constantly vigilant for the big daddy or other aggressors who might appear. They were nervously looking over their shoulder, listening for the rustling in the bushes and trees, and they scurried away with babies attached to their breasts when a more dominant orangutan was imminent. At times, a youngster would run by me, knocking against me. They were on their own, unpredictable and capricious. When they stood, leaning on a tree, they were taller than me.

After the orangutan viewings, we trolled lazily down the Sekonyer River, entertained by the activities of the Jimmy Durante-like proboscis monkeys and bearded pigs. There is a symbiotic relationship between the large-snouted boars, scavenging the dropped food of the hanging orangutan eating coconuts inches above), long-tail macaque monkeys, and mischievous, silver langur monkeys.

We were ready to enjoy Jakarta, the capital and largest city of Indonesia, which used to be the colonial capital under Dutch rule. Independent since 1945, Jakarta, Indonesia re-emerged with its diverse cultural heritage still intact. We arrived to the full force of Ramadan, heralded with calls to prayer seven times a day. We took three-wheeled scooters to Fathahillah Square where we fell in love with the puppet museum and purchased puppers from a puppet master. On a trip to Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, we quietly observed 200,000 Muslims preparation rituals and prayers. (Indonesia is 85 percent Muslim.)

Three of us volunteered to go on the most eye-opening walk of the trip. Our guide, Em, wanted us to see the community/slum underneath the bridge over the Gondokusuman River, Jogja. A wonderful man has donated money to clean up the slum so the people could live with cleaner water and more sanitary conditions. The three of us talked to the group in the communal living area, as they were very naturally picking lice out of the heads of others sitting next to them. It was a defining moment for me to see how this group has created a functioning, communal existence with so little.

Another truly moving couple of hours transpired when Em introduced a woman who had been in prison when she was 10. She was accused of being a Communist back in 1965, when a coup failed. She shared her story, describing a purge in Indonesia of anyone even remotely suspected of being a member of the Communist party. Thousands of innocent people disappeared, were murdered, and horribly abused for years. Her father was one of the victims who was killed. Even today, this era has still changed the lives of the people who were suspected. We learned that this is a period in Indonesian history never discussed in public.

Ready for our next adventure, we flew to Bali, with its rain forest covered volcanic peaks and white sand beaches. It is a Hindu enclave that stands alone in the middle of the rest of largely Muslim Indonesia. We arrived in the middle of an exciting, twice-a-year Galungan celebration. And celebrate they did. I was speechless as I observed the number of temples and shrines (10) each family has in their lives: inside their home, in their office, in the local park, everywhere. At each one of these, someone places a basket of offerings twice a day.

We became students of Balinese dancing at a chidrens dance school, where we joined the skilled dancers as they performed. As we watched and tried to emulate the finger-bending hands, and eyes going up and down, we quickly realized how difficult it was, and laughed at our attempts. We also giggled all the way through a batik design lesson, where the Sekar Renounce Batilk Foundation, dedicated to conserving batik, which is a disappearing art.

In Kusamba, a coastal village known for its black sand beach, we watched a man make hundreds of trips a day, carrying salt water from the ocean, and with his homemade processing invention, he provides salt to the entire community. He is the only extant, ancient, skilled salt maker, and his agility and strength were awe-inspiring. He asked me, a volunteer, to work the mechanism and cull the salt from the sand. I never say no.

A bag of his salt is now sitting in my kitchen.

Since the aim of Overseas Adventure Travel is to meet local people, we spent this day getting to know what life on the island of Flores is like, with a visit to Cecer village, where the clan-based Manggarai speak their own dialect. Their numbers have dwindled in recent years, and the elders are working hard to preserve their culture.

Our group voted that I would be their representative to the chief. In a formal ceremony outside the ceremonial hut, I presented our group, and gave him the ceremonial money. Unbeknownst to our guide, they handed me a live, squirming chicken. The chicken was not happy, and he covered me with scratches. Not knowing what to do, I didnt want to offend the tribal council. I shoved out my arms, handing the recalcitrant chicken back to the chief. The ceremony ensued in their dialect. Traditional songs and arak (a distilled spirit) sharing ensued, with me cross-legged on the mat floors, facing the chief and the tribal council, while the others respectfully observed. I felt like I was in a scene from a movie, and the director was going to yell cut at any moment.

We witnessed Caci dancing, a sport in which masked men wield whips in stylized combat that is meant to symbolize the unity of men and women in creation. We were all pulled into the dances and to participate in the pounding of homegrown coffee beans into powder. I took a turn with two other village women as they surrounded the wooden barrel, wielding their 9 foot heavy pounding poles. We had to work in a 1-2-3 tandem rhythm, which I could not master quickly. They were laughing so hard that not much coffee bean powder was made.

As we continued our walk through the village, we stopped and explored the inside of villagers homes, we talked to them about their cultural practices, and seasonal crops. Through these interactions and talks with the locals, we enjoyed a richer understanding of village life and Manggarai culture.

The highlight of my trip was yet to come. We traveled to Sudamaia Purification Temple, where a Hindu priest conducted a purification ceremony using ice-cold rushing water from the temples holy springs. This was especially spiritual because of the significance of the Galungan holiday. Some of us jumped in, and fully engaged in the wet purification experience. The roar and power of the rushing water was frightening, but I felt serene and personally fulfilled. Finally, the priest gently placed rice on our chest and forehead after receiving his blessing. We all climbed out and glided over to another temple, where we all partook in a dry purification ceremony, where the Hindu priest tied a ceremonial bracelet around each one of our wrists. Although raggedy, I still have mine on.

Onto a dragon quest

We actually saved the best for last, if anything could compete with free-running orangutans and non-stop Bali festivals: the storied Komodo dragons residing on Komodo Island, Indonesia.

After landing in Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores, boats were ready to whisk us to Komodo Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Like Australia, Komodo was first settled as a penal colony, but the descendants of its first settlers are now avid fishermen.

The existence of the islands dragons was first reported 200 years ago, but naysayers denied their existence until the 20th century. In actuality, they are more accurately the longest lizards on Earth, often growing to a length of 10 feet.

As the dragons are protected by law, a ranger must accompany groups in their quest to see the mighty creatures. They are not confined; the island is theirs. Their hearing is acute, so we had to tread softly and not talk. Led by a ranger through the islands flora and fauna, we silently tiptoed, constantly on the lookout for the dragons.

All of a sudden, the first scaly giant waddled across our path. Scared out of my wits, I got as close as allowed and ran along side him to video-tape his movements and sounds as he lumbered down the road. The adept ranger/guide helped us find many more, with each one more thrilling than the other. The only weapon he had to protect us was a long forked stick to distract them from getting too close.

Our final adventurous day began on a large, handsome wooden boat, where we lazily motored for hours to Rinca, an island few Americans visit. Smaller than Komodo Island and even more unspoiled, this is the best locale for having a chance to witness Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Some of them were indolently laying on the ground with bulging stomachs, recently fed. They will remain motionless for days until their hunger returns. They were still scary, so we gave them a wide berth. They have killed villagers on the island, in surprise attacks.

The Komodo dragons do not swim, but they sometimes either enter streams or fall into them and they are carried by the current to other islands. Recently villagers have reported that their animals are being killed and that they are seeing dragons in places they have never been before. They appear to be on the move, still in Indonesia, but outside of the islands where their known existence has been up until now.

An intriguing moment was when we watched a baby dragon run away from a pack of monkeys. When the Komodo dragons are young (1-3 years), they are vulnerable to monkey attacks, especially when the monkeys are in groups. When the dragons are older, they eat the monkeys. It was amazing to watch the monkeys trying to surround the young Komodo, and his strategy to outsmart their plan.

Komodo dragons live a solitary existence. They lay their eggs and then leave when the eggs are almost ready to hatch. They never see the babies born. They do not know their progeny. Theyve never seen them; theyve never smelled them, and they are strangers to each other. So sometimes, when they capture a baby dragon, they do not realize that it might be theirs and will eat it.

This travel adventure to Borneo and the entertaining orangutans, to Java with its spewing volcano, to Bali and the never-ending festival celebrations, to the Komodo Islands, with the incomparable giant dragons, was a truly inspiring, multi-faceted foray into the islands of Indonesia.

Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.Jennifer LeeDemocrats return to the California Capitol on Monday with their strongest political advantage in decades poised to fulfill a huge item on their list of pent-up demands: Vastly expanded access to preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds.

Their plan comes with a big price tag, a problem that has doomed past proposals, most recently with outgoing Gov. Jerry Brown. But with huge legislative majorities and Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom, who called for more spending on early education in his campaign, they see an opportunity.

"There's no better place to invest... There's undisputed evidence that shows this is a fantastic remedy," said Democratic Assemblyman Kevin McCarty of Sacramento. He plans to introduce a nearly $2 billion package of bills Monday to give access to preschool to all low-income 4-year-olds and more 3-year-olds.

Early childhood education has been linked to myriad positive outcomes, from lower rates of incarceration to higher pay.

"We know that the first 2,000 days build the critical foundation for a child's readiness for school and life," said Donna Hoffman Cullinan, campaign director at Moms Rising, which promotes economic security for families. "Focusing on those early days has such an essential return."

California has increased the capacity of its publicly-funded preschool program in recent years, but McCarty says it's still behind other states. The National Institute for Early Education Research at Rutgers University ranks California 13th in state spending on preschool and 21st in total preschool spending, which also includes local and federal money.

Lawmakers have been working to expand preschool access dramatically for years, but Brown's interest in saving for an impending recession curtailed their efforts. Less than half of children from low-income families in California are in high-quality preschool programs largely because there are many eligible children but not enough space available, Cullinan said.

McCarty's proposal is not universal preschool, which many advocates have sought.

McCarty's main bill would expand the state's existing preschool program by about 50 percent to serve roughly 250,000 low-income kids. It will likely cost about $1.3 billion dollars over three years, McCarty said. He's also introducing bills to fund preschool construction and increase pay for preschool teachers.

McCarty said he and Newsom have talked about the issue generally, but not the specifics of his McCarty's plan. Newsom characterized preschool as a priority, but told McCarty proposals must be affordable.

"He said we need to be reasonable," McCarty said. "We need to live within our means, so I think this approach is really doable because it is targeted."

Under the proposal, children would be eligible if they live in an area where at least 70 percent of students fall below a certain income level, generally less than $47,000 per year for a family of four. Children whose families make less than 85 percent of the state's median income are already eligible for the program.

Targeting low-income families will expand access for the kids who face the biggest barriers to attending preschool, he said. The proposal would also create spots for some children from middle-income families who live in high-poverty areas.

The money would go to preschools run by school districts and nonprofits.

Seventy percent of young mothers are in the workforce but 35 percent of them leave after having kids because they can't afford childcare or preschool, Cullinan said. Supporters of early education say affordable childcare and preschool are ultimately important steps in establishing economic security for all families in California.

"This is a direct impact on our economy and on the success of the future of our state," Cullinan said.

Stanford University Professor Deborah Stipek, an early childhood education expert, thinks more investment in preschool is essential, but said she worries targeting only low-income families could have negative effects.

The state preschools' income requirements effectively segregate low-income children, she said. A better approach would be to provide financial assistance to families on a sliding scale, so children attending preschool together come from a range of backgrounds, Stipek said.

Research that has shown high-quality preschool can have dramatic benefits for children, but low-quality programs can have little to no effect, she said. Some schools provide nurturing programs that foster basic reading and math knowledge and keep children engaged, Stipek said. But others are lacking and have high staff turnover because they pay teachers so little.

For parents looking for a good preschool to send their children, Stipek recommends looking for programs with experienced staff and clear methods to help children learn, such as reading to them. When visiting schools, parents should see that teachers get down at children's eye level and listen to them, Stipek said.

"I have seen some absolutely outstanding programs, and I have seen some very mediocre programs," she said. "My concern is that while we expand access, we need to also expand quality."

One of the bills McCarty is introducing would increase the amount of money the state provides preschools per pupil and raise the standards required for preschools to participate in the program. McCarty said the additional money would help schools pay teachers more than the very low rates most currently make and fund more training for them. The average preschool worker earns $13.94 an hour, according to a recent University of California, Berkeley report that cites the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

McCarty also hopes to secure $500 million to construct and improve preschool buildings to accommodate additional children. He's proposing putting bond measure to voters in 2020 or using money from the expected budget surplus.FAIRFIELD  A Solano County Superior Court jury has convicted a staff psychologist at a medical facility at Travis Air Force Base of sexual assaulting three of his patients, according to the Solano County District Attorney's Office.

Heath Jacob Sommer, 42, was convicted of seven sexual assault charges after a six-week jury trial that ended Friday. His sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 25.

Sommer was a staff psychologist at David Grant USAF Medical Center. He gained the trust of victims during treatment and subsequently induced the victims to engage in sex acts with him under the guise of "exposure therapy," prosecutors said.

Two of the victims sought therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder for previous sexual trauma they had experienced and one victim sought treatment for a violent sexual assault in Afghanistan, according to the district attorney's office.

The sexual assaults occurred between 2014 and 2016. Each of the victim testified at the trial. Some of the counts included battery, rape and oral copulation by fraud.Mac Taylor, the Legislatures soon-to-retire budget analyst, generally takes a very conservative, glass-half-empty approach to the states finances.

However, the report his office issued last month was downright exuberant, citing Californias strong economy, growing revenues and a historically large rainy day fund created by outgoing Gov. Jerry Brown.

It is difficult to overstate how good the budgets condition is today, Taylor said. Under our estimates of revenues and spending, the states constitutional reserve would reach $14.5 billion by the end of 2019-20. In addition, we project the Legislature will have an additional $14.8 billion in resources available to allocate in the 2019-20 budget process.

The Legislature can use these funds to build more budget reserves or make new one-time and/or ongoing budget commitments. By historical standards, this surplus is extraordinary.

Taylors optimism assumes, as he cautions, that the states economy does not drift into recession. Nevertheless, the report is very good news for Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom as he and Browns budget staff work on a proposed 2019-20 budget that he must deliver to the Legislature just three days after his Jan. 7 inauguration.

It would be surprising if Newsom doesnt propose some initial spending on the priorities he stated during his campaign, such as expanding early childhood education, thereby assuring his left-of-center voter base that he means what he said.

In addition to his overall review of state finances, Taylor also issued a special report on kindergarten-12th grade schools and community colleges, which are dependent on the state budget, and it contained a not-so-rosy projection of their finances.

Enrollment in both systems has been declining, thanks to related demographic and economic factors, while their costs have been rising, thanks to higher salaries for their teachers and employees and, most disturbingly, fast-growing pension costs.

State aid to both is largely tied to enrollment, which means that their revenues are flattening as their costs spike upwards, leading to severe income/outgo squeezes.

Taylor estimates that the minimum guarantee of K-12 and community college revenues under state law will increase by $2.4 billion in 2019-20 over the current year. However, mandatory payments to the California State Teachers Retirement System and the California Public Retirement System will increase by $1.35 billion, thus consuming more than half of the revenue boost.

The numbers confirm what Jessica Calefati, a writer for CALmatters, reported last July in a lengthy article about the financial dilemma facing school districts, even with a healthy economy. And, as Calefati wrote, The situation could become even more bleak if Californias economy doesnt keep growing.

School enrollment will continue to drift downwards, due to Californias declining immigration and birth rates, but pension costs will continue to increase as retirement systems shore up their shaky finances.

School districts are required by law to increase their contributions to CalSTRS from 8.3 percent of payrolls of teachers and other certificated employees prior to 2014 to 19.1 percent by 2020. CalPERS is boosting payments for other school staff, as it is for workers in cities and other local governments.

More money for pensions means less for salary increases, building maintenance and other operating costs and as the squeeze intensifies, school officials and school unions will be pressing Newsom and the Legislature to allocate more state aid.

Brown has not been receptive to a state pension fix for schools. Were Newsom to bail schools out of their pension problem, other local governments facing similar squeezes, especially cities, will demand relief as well.

CALmatters is a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how Californias state Capitol works and why it matters. For more stories by Dan Walters, go to calmatters.org/commentary.Unless I am in a particularly peaceful mood, I tend to scoff at the idea of building bridges between Democrats and Republicans in the United States. This is not an attitude I picked up post-election day 2016; I have felt this way since the Bush era  as I watched liberals capitulate to mindless War on Terror politics post 9/11. My inspiration for this seemingly bellicose attitude, ironically, comes from a Nobel Peace Prize laureate whose name is synonymous with nonviolence and social justice.

Martin Luther King, Jr. once said that a genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus. I believe he meant that a leader should not simply follow the trends of public opinion and shape his or her views accordingly  a leader should instead seek to change public opinion. Thus, Democratic candidates such as Andrew Gillum, Stacey Abrams, and Beto ORourke are true leaders whether they win or lose elections. To call them idealistic or divisive would be offering thinly veiled support for the status quo, yet too often such critiques pass as impartial analysis.

If these same candidates had led more moderate campaigns, they would have been mere followers of public opinion  or at least of what public opinion was assumed to be in 2018 based on (imperfect) polling data. Therefore, they would not represent social change but a changing of the guard.

While acting as a molder of consensus does not imply competing to win at all costs, it implies a lot less compromise than what the Democrats, particularly post-Lyndon B. Johnson, are known for. Obama, whose memory often serves to unite the left, was branded the compromiser-in-chief for his willingness to cave to uncompromising Republicans on issues near and dear to progressives.

Hillary Clinton, for her part, leans more conservative than Obama and is such a hawk on foreign policy that she drew comparisons to Dick Cheney from Republicans. Despite the deep rightward descent of the Republican party, which began far before anyone took Trump seriously as a political actor, the best foil the Democrats have put forward is Bernie Sanders, who has still not embraced the party label.

The Democratic Party establishment, for its part, has not only failed to anoint Sanders but also remains uncomfortable with labels, such as socialism and welfare, which are treated as advantageous straw men for conservative pundits and policymakers while their true meanings are not only representative of popular ideals but also existing, mainstream policies and programs.

In short, the Democrats have too often allowed conservatives to shape the terms of the political debate and neglect furthering their own agenda when it runs contrary to what conservatives and perceived moderates deem acceptable. They have searched for consensus when they needed to mold it.

Matthew Johnson, syndicated by PeaceVoice, is co-author of Trumpism.Fire gutted a godown where seized illegal Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) were stored at Hanjanglangso in Karbi Anglong district under Bokajan Police Station on Saturday night.

It has been suspected that miscreants caused the fire who were there to steal the bottles of beer and IMFL.

In another incident of fire that took place at noon on Sunday, a fire burnt down two houses at Khatkhati in Karbi Anglong district under Khatkhati Police Station.

Also read: Assam: Fire engulfs 2 oil tankers at Khatkhati in Karbi Anglong

The fire originated from the place where oil tankers used to be parked.

It has been suspected that the fire was caused by a motor while oil was illegally being pumped out from a tanker.

Fire tenders from Bokajan and Dimapur doused the fire and prevented it from doing further damage in the area.

Earlier also, on November 11. similar incident of fire took place at Khatkhati where oil is transferred from oil tankers.

In that incident, two oil tankers were burnt.

The place located along the Assam-Nagaland border is suspected to be a hub of inter-State oil pilfering racket.

Locals allege that some corrupt police and administrative officials are in league with mafias in running several illegal operations including bootlegging, smuggling of IMFL into neighboring Nagaland which is a dry state, gun running, drug peddling and transit point for stolen vehicles from all over India.YEREVAN.  In line with the preliminary investigation of a criminal case which the Special Investigation Service had filed on September 11, 2015 into an official taking a large bribe, it was substantiated that National Assembly (NA) deputy Aram Harutyunyan, in his capacity as Minister of Nature Protection in 2008, had requested from a person and receivedthrough mediationa $14mn bribe in order to issue special licenses for the study and operation of ten non-ferrous metal ores in Syunik, Gegharkunik, Lori, and Kotayk Provinces, the Prosecutor Generals Office informed Armenian News-NEWS.am.

Subsequently, Aram Harutyunyan committed money laundering by way of making remittances to bank accounts that were opened in other peoples names in another country.

Under this criminal case, criminal charges have been brought against two people, and on the count of aiding an official in taking a large bribe.

Two mere people have been included in this criminal case as an accused for committing this crime. An order for their arrest has been issued, and a search for them has been declared.

Also, information has been obtained that a house, apartments, a building, a restaurant complex, and a public building in capital city Yerevan, as well as more than a dozen agricultural land plots in Getamej community of Kotayk Province belong to Aram Harutyunyan. He had declared over $1.5 million.

As per the Prosecutor Generals Office, the evidence obtained in the criminal case investigation gives sufficient grounds for including MP Aram Harutyunyan in this case as an accused, and bringing charges against him for taking a large bribe and money laundering.

Several individuals who are involved in committing this crime are either Harutyunyans close circles or are people working at state-run organizations and private companies headed by him. This fact makes it possible to believe that he may exert unlawful influence on the persons involved in the respective judicial proceedings.

Based on the above-said, Prosecutor General Artur Davtyan has submitted a petition to the NAin the person of the NA speakerto give its consent for launching a criminal prosecution against NA deputy Aram Harutyunyan, and for remanding him in custody.The My Step alliances MP candidates, led by acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, on Monday are meeting with voters in Ararat town of Ararat Province, and within the framework of their campaign rallies for the upcoming snap parliamentary election in Armenia.

Subsequently, the My Step campaign team will continue their campaigning in Vedi, Artashat, and Masis towns of this province.

Pashinyan has taken a leave until Wednesday, to take part in the election campaign of this alliance.

Nikol Pashinyan, acting First Deputy Prime Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, and National Assembly Way Out (Yelk) Faction Head Lena Nazaryan are the top three, respectively, on the electoral list of My Step alliance.

Campaign season for the upcoming snap National Assembly (NA) election has gotten underway in Armenia on November 26.

The campaign season will conclude on Friday, whereas Saturday is election silence day, and Sundayelection day

Eleven political forcestwo alliances and nine partiesare running for parliament.

As a result of this election, the NA seats will be distributed proportionally among the political forces that have passed the respective minimum thresholds: 5% for parties, and 7% for alliances.Putin talks Russian-Azerbaijan strategic partnership development

Karabakh President sends condolence telegram to Russia President

Armenia Parliament Deputy Speaker receives China Ambassador

Putin: Russian peacekeepers play a positive role in Nagorno-Karabakh

Peskov: Putin-Aliyev talks underway in Sochi

Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia leaders' meeting kicks off in Sochi

Sochi: Moscow expects it will be possible to outline directions to normalize Yerevan-Baku relations

Six people were apprehended during Yerevan protests

Nikol Pashinyan arrives in Sochi

Armenia confirms reports that Azerbaijan transferred 2 POWs

Putin highlights importance of Russia-China cooperation in science

Pashinyan's second negotiator with Azerbaijan was Hrachya Tashchyan

Aliyev arrives to Sochi for talks with Putin and Pashinyan

Azerbaijan informs about transfer of 2 POWs to Armenia

675 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Armenia per day

PM Pashinyan leaves for Russia on a working visit

Zatulin: Last year's war in Karabakh caused tremendous damage to not only Armenia, but also Russia

Alexander Rahr: In regard to Karabakh conflict, West will support territorial integrity

Russian political scientist: Moscow not concerned about Pashinyan-Aliyev meeting in Brussels

Armenia acting commander of battalion arrested under criminal case of regarding Nov. 16 attack

Turkish aggressor declares that Armenia 'needs to assess extended hand for peace as a chance'

Armenian analyst says Iran is not interested in transfer of any sector of Armenia

Armenian official: MFA hasn't raised issue to review CEPA with regard to Karabakh

Deputy mayor of Armenia's Goris: I have deeper concerns after meeting with PM

Matviyenko: Borders between Armenia and Azerbaijan are precise on Soviet maps

Armenian analyst: Part of Armenia's Goris-Kapan motorway does not pass through Azerbaijani territory

Zatulin: Opening or closure of this or that corridor is the sovereign right of Armenia, not Baku

Zakharova: Russia sees good prospects for agreement on unblocking of transport links in South Caucasus

Russian MFA: Conversation of experts of Moscow, Yerevan and Baku is important

Azerbaijani planes still flying through Armenia's airspace (PHOTOS)

NEWS.am daily digest: 25.11.21

Armenia 2nd President: I have decided not to attend 30th session of Hayastan All-Armenian Fund's Board of Trustees

Armenian-Russian joint military exercise held, air force used (PHOTOS)

Czech President Milos Zeman discharged from military hospital

Armenian opposition party leader calls on people to free state institutions of 'Turks'

Beijing protested over US sanctions against Chinese companies

European Commissioner says EU will soon change its border crossing rules due to COVID-19

Armenian army's General Staff ex-deputy chief: War is very likely, but it is rare that there will be corridor

Armenian political party leader: There is a need for a national unity committee in Armenia

Armenian MFA: Coronavirus has decelerated course of implementation of Armenia-EU CEPA

Armenia Parliament Speaker meets with IFRC Europe Regional Director in St. Petersburg

Armenia Constitutional Court ex-chief of staff proposes to hold parliamentary hearings under non-stop regime

Armenia high-tech industry minister: There is no need to wiretap opposition members

Aram Vardevanyan: Armenia health minister was obliged to attend session of Constitutional Court today

Zakharova says she has no comment on upcoming meeting of Russian, Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders

Zakharova: Russia is interested in normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations

Latest developments in Artsakh among issues to be discussed during Turkish National Security Council's session

Armenian FM holds phone talk with Israeli counterpart

Protests continue in Turkey with demand for Erdogan's resignation

Armenia allocates AMD 1.44 billion to Karabakh

COVID-19 in Armenia: 42 new deaths

Russian peacekeepers ensure control in Nagorno-Karabakh

Parliamentary hearings on demarcation and delimitation being held in Yerevan

Ambartsum Matevosyan appointed Armenian deputy PM

EU, WHO provide Yerevan's Surb Grigor Lusavorich Medical Center with state-of-the-art X-ray machine

Armenian soldier found dead on Armenia's border in Tavush Province had been drafted in February (PHOTO)

What Speaker of the Parliament of Armenia really said in response to Russian journalist's question

Analyst: Iran's accession to EEU will create serious counterbalance to Turkey and strengthen Armenia's positions

Armenia FM holds phone talks with Iranian counterpart

Firefighters put out fire in Range Rover Sport near night club in Yerevan

Putin discusses current situation in Karabakh during phone talks with European Council President

Armenia's Liberation Movement holding march after rally, calling on citizens to join

Greek City Times: Azeri military captured the historic Armenian city of Shushi

Georgia says it's not considering possibility of joining '3+3' regional format

Union of Armenia National Security Service's Reserve Officers in favor of fulfillment of Liberation Movement's demands

Armenia, Russia FMs hold phone talks

Karabakh emergency situations service: Remains of another serviceman found in Mataghis

Armenia's ex-Ambassador to Iran appointed Advisor to PM

Armenia's Pashinyan receives Russia Deputy PM, unblocking of communications discussed

Armenia FM presents situation created after Azerbaijani aggression during phone talks with Tajik counterpart

Armenia convict dies from COVID-19 at medical center

Armenia Syunik Province's community heads: Nikol Pashinyan said there won't be corridor

NEWS.am daily digest: 24.11.21

Newly appointed Ambassador of Germany to Armenia presents credentials to Armen Sarkissian

Armenia Armavir Province governor sacked

Armenia MOD: Conscript's body found at combat position, with lethal firearm injury in head area

US has invited 110 countries to Summit for Democracy in December, including Armenia

Requiem Service for Armenian statesman Vano Siradeghyan to be held on Dec. 3

Armenia Parliament Deputy Speaker meets with Argentina Ambassador

Armenia FM presents situation created as a result of Azerbaijan's aggression to Germany's new AmbassadorYEREVAN.  The main Christmas tree at Republic Square, the heart of Armenias capital city of Yerevan, will be a completely new one this year.

At present, the new Christmas tree is being installed at the square.

A Russian companys representatives, who have brought this Christmas tree, are coordinating the installation.

The representatives of this organization told Armenian News-NEWS.am that the new Christmas tree will be 35m high, which is 3m higher than the Christmas tree that was installed at Republic Square for the past seven years.

We have brought the Christmas tree from Russia; the Armenian Government has ordered [it], they said. It will have bright lighting (). There will be many toys [on it]. It will be very beautiful.

The Russian companys representatives added that this same Christmas tree is installed in several other places in the world, including in Russia.YEREVAN.  The Republican Party of Armenia has good chances to win seats in the parliament, political analyst Karen Kocharyan told reporters on Monday.

The RPA has all necessary resources that suggest we can expect good results, Kocharyan believes.

Twenty years of experience in Armenias political life, financial resources, as well as qualitative personnel speak about stable social background and electorate of the Republican Party, he added.

RPA can poll five percent taking into account their professional actions on describing themselves as a consolidated power of the dark, that is all those opposing Nikol Pashinyan.

Karen Kocharyan believes that We alliance has good chances to be the third, just as Bright Armenia party.

Prosperous Armenia will most likely be the second, with its stable but weakening voters, he said.President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan denied the Armenian Genocide after a question from a journalist of Armenian origin during a press conference at the G20 summit in Argentina.

When asked about the rights of minorities in Turkey, the journalist added: I am one of the descendants of the families that suffered the Armenian Genocide, Prensa Armenia reported.

Turkey cannot be blamed of having committed a genocide against the Armenians," said Erdogan. "On the question of genocide, please let's leave the discussions to the Historians and let's listen to what the Historians have to say. This is not a part of our history and I can very confidently say that and we are ready to get involved in any discussion whatsoever, added Erdogan.

"Do you know how many Armenians live in my country right now? Hundred of thousands. About 30,000 of them are citizens and the rest are undocumented. They have fled Armenia only to settle in Turkey. And we allow them to do so. A total of 100,000 Armenians live in our country. They were never discriminated on the basis of citizenship, we have never deported any Armenians on those grounds. We are very humane in our conduct and we will keep on doing so, said the Turkish President.

The response is cynical for several reasons, including the validity of Article 301 of the Turkish Criminal Code, which under the figure of 'denigrating Turkish identity' has allowed prosecuting and imprisoning intellectuals, including Historians, for speaking explicitly about the Armenian Genocide, replied the Armenian National Committee of South America.

Before the arrival of the Turkish President to Argentina, the Armenian community held a demonstration in front of the residence of the Turkish Ambassador on Monday, November 26.APARAN.  The Prosperous Armenia Party (PAP) members and activists on Monday are campaigning in Aragatsotn Province, and within the framework of their campaign rallies for the upcoming snap parliamentary election in the country.

The PAP campaign team, led by party chairmanand tycoon MPGagik Tsarukyan who heads the respective electoral list of this political force, arrived in Aparan town, the Armenian News-NEWS.am correspondent reported from the scene.

During his talk with voters in Aparan, Tsarukyan noted, in particular, that one of the key problems of Aragatsotn Province and of Armenia, in general, was the large-scale emigration from the country.

In his words, the lack of work further exacerbates the already complicated socioeconomic situation of the population.It has been found out that, from 2009 to 2018, several officials who were engaged in the implementation of the North-South Road Corridor construction project in Armenia, have used their official position in contrast to the interests of this service, or have not fulfilled their respective obligations, in an attempt to conceal the ineffective management of this project.

In particular, in violation of the specified deadlines, construction of the North-South Highway was not completed. As a result, the respective damage caused to the Armenian state has made up AMD 23,553,817,000 (approx. $48,439,720).

On September 4, the Prosecutor Generals Office filed a criminal case into the aforesaid cases.

The ensuing investigation has revealed that the manager of the project team of a joint French enterprise that conducts technical supervision during construction of Tranche 1 of this road construction project had reached prior consent with persons in charge of a Spanish contractor company carrying out the construction, as well as with some officials from the Ministry of Transport, Communication and Information Technologies of Armenia, and had included false information and recorded additional expenditures in the intermediate payment documents for January to June 2016, and with respect to the extent of the work. As a result, this project manager had stolen $1.9 million by fraudulent means.

A signature bond to not leave Armenia has been enforced as the preventive measure for this foreign manager of the project team of the said French organization, and this person has been included as a suspect in the aforementioned criminal case.

The investigation is still in progress.The Armenian National Committee of Australia (ANC-AU) reports that a motion honouring the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide (UN Genocide Convention) will be debated by Australia's House of Representatives on Monday, 3rd December 2018.

The private member's motion, which will be moved by Member for Goldstein Tim Wilson  who is of Armenian ancestry  calls on the House of Representatives to acknowledge the need for eternal vigilance of all countries, including Australia, to act to acknowledge past genocides as essential to stopping future genocides.

The motion honours the author of the UN Genocide Convention, Dr. Raphael Lemkin, noting that the Armenian Genocide and Jewish Holocaust were motivating factors for his coining of a legal term for race-based mass killings. The motion states: "[The House] honours the primary initiator and author of the United Nations Genocide Convention, Dr Raphael Lemkin, a lawyer of Polish-Jewish descent, who coined the word 'genocide', informed by his study of the systematic extermination of the Armenians during World War I and the Jews during World War II."

The motion also acknowledges Australia's significant role in the UN's adoption of the motion 70 years ago, on 9th December, 1948. As is typical with private members' motions, this bill will be debated by a selection of government and non-government Members of Parliament without going to a vote.

The majority's view of the debate will reflect the will of Australia's House of Representatives, explained ANC-AU Executive Director, Haig Kayserian.

Australia was instrumental in the adoption of the UN Genocide Convention and ratified it in 1949, yet it still needs to get on the right side of history by recognising the Armenian Genocide and continue what is a proud tradition of standing up for such important human rights issues, said Kayserian.

"A positive outcome in the debate of this motion will ensure the House of Representatives recognises that there is no more room for word games. This motion clearly articulates that the word Genocide and what happened to the Armenians are undeniably linked since the creation of the word itself."

This is the second motion to be debated in 2018, after the House of Representatives unanimously debated in favour of a bill recognising Australia's first major international humanitarian relief effort to aid survivors of the Genocide of Armenians, Greeks and Assyrians on 25th June, 2018.The country's participation as an observer in the meeting of the Council of the Eurasian Economic Union opens up prospects for deepening economic, social and humanitarian cooperation with the EEU member states, said Moldovan President Igor Dodon.

The meeting of the Eurasian Union leaders will be held on December 6 in St. Petersburg, he said.

According to him, in 2017, the EEU countries imported food products and agricultural raw materials in the amount of $ 30.2 billion from third countries.

Moldova exported $1.1 billion worth of food products and agricultural raw materials to all countries of the world and could significantly increase supplies to the EEU member states by increasing production volumes and export potential of products.Aliyev to Putin: It is important to work on a comprehensive settlement of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations

Putin talks Russian-Azerbaijan strategic partnership development

Karabakh President sends condolence telegram to Russia President

Armenia Parliament Deputy Speaker receives China Ambassador

Putin: Russian peacekeepers play a positive role in Nagorno-Karabakh

Peskov: Putin-Aliyev talks underway in Sochi

Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia leaders' meeting kicks off in Sochi

Sochi: Moscow expects it will be possible to outline directions to normalize Yerevan-Baku relations

Six people were apprehended during Yerevan protests

Nikol Pashinyan arrives in Sochi

Armenia confirms reports that Azerbaijan transferred 2 POWs

Putin highlights importance of Russia-China cooperation in science

Pashinyan's second negotiator with Azerbaijan was Hrachya Tashchyan

Aliyev arrives to Sochi for talks with Putin and Pashinyan

Azerbaijan informs about transfer of 2 POWs to Armenia

675 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Armenia per day

PM Pashinyan leaves for Russia on a working visit

Zatulin: Last year's war in Karabakh caused tremendous damage to not only Armenia, but also Russia

Alexander Rahr: In regard to Karabakh conflict, West will support territorial integrity

Russian political scientist: Moscow not concerned about Pashinyan-Aliyev meeting in Brussels

Armenia acting commander of battalion arrested under criminal case of regarding Nov. 16 attack

Turkish aggressor declares that Armenia 'needs to assess extended hand for peace as a chance'

Armenian analyst says Iran is not interested in transfer of any sector of Armenia

Armenian official: MFA hasn't raised issue to review CEPA with regard to Karabakh

Deputy mayor of Armenia's Goris: I have deeper concerns after meeting with PM

Matviyenko: Borders between Armenia and Azerbaijan are precise on Soviet maps

Armenian analyst: Part of Armenia's Goris-Kapan motorway does not pass through Azerbaijani territory

Zatulin: Opening or closure of this or that corridor is the sovereign right of Armenia, not Baku

Zakharova: Russia sees good prospects for agreement on unblocking of transport links in South Caucasus

Russian MFA: Conversation of experts of Moscow, Yerevan and Baku is important

Azerbaijani planes still flying through Armenia's airspace (PHOTOS)

NEWS.am daily digest: 25.11.21

Armenia 2nd President: I have decided not to attend 30th session of Hayastan All-Armenian Fund's Board of Trustees

Armenian-Russian joint military exercise held, air force used (PHOTOS)

Czech President Milos Zeman discharged from military hospital

Armenian opposition party leader calls on people to free state institutions of 'Turks'

Beijing protested over US sanctions against Chinese companies

European Commissioner says EU will soon change its border crossing rules due to COVID-19

Armenian army's General Staff ex-deputy chief: War is very likely, but it is rare that there will be corridor

Armenian political party leader: There is a need for a national unity committee in Armenia

Armenian MFA: Coronavirus has decelerated course of implementation of Armenia-EU CEPA

Armenia Parliament Speaker meets with IFRC Europe Regional Director in St. Petersburg

Armenia Constitutional Court ex-chief of staff proposes to hold parliamentary hearings under non-stop regime

Armenia high-tech industry minister: There is no need to wiretap opposition members

Aram Vardevanyan: Armenia health minister was obliged to attend session of Constitutional Court today

Zakharova says she has no comment on upcoming meeting of Russian, Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders

Zakharova: Russia is interested in normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations

Latest developments in Artsakh among issues to be discussed during Turkish National Security Council's session

Armenian FM holds phone talk with Israeli counterpart

Protests continue in Turkey with demand for Erdogan's resignation

Armenia allocates AMD 1.44 billion to Karabakh

COVID-19 in Armenia: 42 new deaths

Russian peacekeepers ensure control in Nagorno-Karabakh

Parliamentary hearings on demarcation and delimitation being held in Yerevan

Ambartsum Matevosyan appointed Armenian deputy PM

EU, WHO provide Yerevan's Surb Grigor Lusavorich Medical Center with state-of-the-art X-ray machine

Armenian soldier found dead on Armenia's border in Tavush Province had been drafted in February (PHOTO)

What Speaker of the Parliament of Armenia really said in response to Russian journalist's question

Analyst: Iran's accession to EEU will create serious counterbalance to Turkey and strengthen Armenia's positions

Armenia FM holds phone talks with Iranian counterpart

Firefighters put out fire in Range Rover Sport near night club in Yerevan

Putin discusses current situation in Karabakh during phone talks with European Council President

Armenia's Liberation Movement holding march after rally, calling on citizens to join

Greek City Times: Azeri military captured the historic Armenian city of Shushi

Georgia says it's not considering possibility of joining '3+3' regional format

Union of Armenia National Security Service's Reserve Officers in favor of fulfillment of Liberation Movement's demands

Armenia, Russia FMs hold phone talks

Karabakh emergency situations service: Remains of another serviceman found in Mataghis

Armenia's ex-Ambassador to Iran appointed Advisor to PM

Armenia's Pashinyan receives Russia Deputy PM, unblocking of communications discussed

Armenia FM presents situation created after Azerbaijani aggression during phone talks with Tajik counterpart

Armenia convict dies from COVID-19 at medical center

Armenia Syunik Province's community heads: Nikol Pashinyan said there won't be corridor

NEWS.am daily digest: 24.11.21

Newly appointed Ambassador of Germany to Armenia presents credentials to Armen Sarkissian

Armenia Armavir Province governor sacked

Armenia MOD: Conscript's body found at combat position, with lethal firearm injury in head area

US has invited 110 countries to Summit for Democracy in December, including Armenia

Requiem Service for Armenian statesman Vano Siradeghyan to be held on Dec. 3

Armenia Parliament Deputy Speaker meets with Argentina Ambassador

Armenia FM presents situation created as a result of Azerbaijan's aggression to Germany's new Ambassador

Armenia PM receives community heads of Syunik Province

Armenia ex-deputy economy minister appointed member of Eurasian Economic Commission's Advisory Board

Exchange rates in Armenia

Another plane heads to Baku through Armenian airspace

Ambassador: Armenia may play major role in development of Iran-Eurasian Economic Union cooperation

Details of Overchuk-Aliyev meeting reported

3 children hospitalized in Yerevan with symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

UAE-Iran-Turkey corridor to officially start functioning after visit of Emirates officials to Tehran

Sweden elected a female PM for the 1st time in history

Konstantin Ishkhanov: EUFSC determined to continue presenting very best in classical music

Trade Representative of Russia in Armenia: Eurasian Union and Iran are interested in using North-South direction

Human Rights Watch calls on Poland to end violence against migrants

Apple confirms: Eavesdropping is carried out by Pegasus spy program in Armenia

WTI crude oil prices rise by close of trading in US

COVID-19 in Armenia: 28 new deaths

Policemen apprehend protesters who close Yerevan subway entrances

Apple suspends sales of devices in Turkey due to collapse of local currency

Court session kicks off as Serzh Sargsyan sues Khachatur Sukiasyan

Russian peacekeepers clear nearly 2 hectares of land in Nagorno-KarabakhSome 40 members of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly from 19 countries are arriving this week in Yerevan to observe the 9 December Armenian parliamentary elections.

Led by Special Co-ordinator of the OSCE short-term observer mission Peter Osusky (MP, Slovak Republic) and Head of the OSCE PA delegation Nahima Lanjri (MP, Belgium), the observers will participate in several days of meetings and briefings in Yerevan before deploying around the country for election day observation.

Osusky, who serves as the Head of the Delegation of the Slovak Republic to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, has observed numerous elections, including as Head of the OSCE PA observer delegation to the early presidential and parliamentary elections in Turkey, in June 2018.

I cannot overstate the importance for the country of holding democratic elections that enjoy the trust of the Armenian people, said Osusky. As international observers we aim to contribute through a thorough assessment as to whether the elections are held in accordance with Armenia's democratic commitments.

Lanjri is Head of the Delegation of Belgium to the OSCE PA and serves as Chair of the OSCE PAs Ad Hoc Committee on Migration.

The dramatic events and change of power earlier this year set an important backdrop to these elections, and I'm pleased that the political arena will now move from the street to the ballot box, said Lanjri.

OSCE PA observers will be deploying throughout Armenia, along with OSCE/ODIHR observers, observers from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) and the European Parliament (EP). ODIHR has requested 250 short-term observers for the election.

It is the 11th time the OSCE PA has deployed an election observation mission to Armenia since 1995. The elections will be assessed for their adherence to democratic commitments laid out in the OSCEs Copenhagen Document of 1990.

Preliminary findings and conclusions of the election observation mission will be presented at a press conference in Yerevan on 10 December.JNIM Reportedly Rejects Claim that Victims of U.S. Airstrike in Libya were AQIM MembersANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP)  The magnitude 7.0 earthquake that rattled Alaska's largest city cracked roads and collapsed highway ramps, but there were no reports of widespread catastrophic damage or collapsed buildings.

There's a good reason for that.

A devastating 1964 Alaska earthquake  the most powerful on record in the United States  led to stricter building codes that helped structures withstand the shifting earth Friday.

"Congratulations to the people of Alaska for being really prepared for this earthquake," U.S. Geological Survey Geophysicist Paul Caruso said Saturday. "Because a magnitude 7.0 in a city like that, you know, it could have been significantly worse."

Gov. Bill Walker said sometimes people, including himself, grouse about stringent building codes. But he's "really glad" they were in place as he only had minor water damage at his home.

"Building codes mean something," he said Friday.

The quake was centered about 7 miles (12 kilometers) north of Anchorage, which has a population of about 300,000. People ran from their offices or took cover under desks. A 5.7 aftershock arrived within minutes, followed by a series of smaller quakes.

The two big back-to-back quakes knocked items off shelves, disrupted power, broke store windows and briefly triggered a tsunami warning for islands and coastal areas south of the city. Walker issued a disaster declaration, and President Donald Trump declared an emergency, allowing the Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate disaster relief.

There were no reports of deaths or serious injuries.

Still, aftershocks Saturday continued to fray nerves, with people worrying about being caught in more massive shakers.

"They're disturbing, and I'm not putting anything away that could fall until they calm down," Randall Cavanugh, an Anchorage attorney, said following a restless night at home. "I kept waking up."

Story continues

By mid-morning, there had been about 550 aftershocks, including 11 with magnitudes of 4.5 or greater, Caruso said.

The aftershocks should be weaker and less frequent in the coming days, but officials can't say for sure when they'll stop, he said.

Anchorage Mayor Ethan Berkowitz said the extent of damage was "relatively small" considering the scale of Friday's earthquake. He also credited building codes for minimizing structure damage.

"In terms of a disaster, I think it says more about who we are than what we suffered," he said Saturday at a press briefing, adding that Anchorage was prepared for such an emergency.

"People pulled together. We followed the plans that were in place. We looked after one another. And when people around the country and around the world look at this, they're going to say, 'We want to do things in the Anchorage way because Anchorage did this right," Berkowitz said.

After the first earthquake, Alaska's largest hospital activated its incident command center, but the trickle of patients into the emergency room at Providence Alaska Medical Center in Anchorage was more like a normal workday and not a mass casualty event. The injuries were described as minor, and there were no patients with life-threatening conditions.

"The flow of patients into the emergency department was similar to a typical Monday," hospital spokesman Mikal Canfield said Saturday. "It wasn't a situation where there was a mass rush of people."

Roads didn't fare so well, as reports of extensive damage came in. The Alaska Department of Transportation counted about 50 sites with damage, including eight considered major. Most of the damage was to highways north of Anchorage. The agency also was planning to conduct bridge inspections Saturday.

Transportation officials said in a release that the aftershocks continue to contribute to settling and additional cracking. Rock falls exacerbated by the aftershocks were causing some problems on the Seward Highway south of Anchorage.

Normal operations resumed at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport after flight operations were suspended Friday, Transportation Department spokesman Meadow Bailey told The Associated Press.

The 800-mile (1,287-kilometer) trans Alaska oil pipeline was shut down for hours while crews were sent to inspect it for damage.

Anchorage's school system canceled classes through Tuesday while it examined buildings for damage.

Alaska's 1964 earthquake, with a 9.2 magnitude, was centered about 75 miles (120 kilometers) east of Anchorage. It and the tsunami it triggered claimed about 130 lives.

The state averages 40,000 earthquakes a year, with more large quakes than the 49 other states combined. Southern Alaska has a high risk of earthquakes because the Earth's plates slide past each other under the region, but it is rare for major quakes to strike so close heavily populated areas.

___

Associated Press writers Becky Bohrer in Juneau, Alaska; Dan Joling in Anchorage; Gillian Flaccus in Portland, Oregon; Gene Johnson in Seattle; Jennifer Kelleher, Audrey McAvoy and Caleb Jones in Honolulu; Rachel La Corte in Olympia, Washington; and John Antczak in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

___

Follow Rachel D'Oro at https://twitter.com/rdoroAlexandria Ocasio-Cortez is meeting criticism of her policies head-on, and has hit back at former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee for taking shots at her and her election.

Ms Ocasio-Cortez responded after Mr Huckabee  the father of White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders  called her election looney and mocked her suggestion that her surprise victory was comparable to the moon landing.

Moon landing was LUNAR, not LOONEY; Moon landing done by ppl who knew what they were doing  those who elected someone who thought there were 3 branches of Congress did NOT, Mr Huckabee wrote on Twitter, sharing a Daily Mail article and referencing a gaffe of Ms Ocasio-Cortezs in which she mischaracterised the divisions of the US federal government.

But Ms Ocasio-Cortez hit back, and noted that her moon landing comments came while she was campaigning for an ambitious Green New Deal that would see the US transition to a carbon free, 100 per cent renewable energy system.

A Green New Deal will take a level of ambition + innovation on the scale of the moon landing. Weve been done it before, and can do it again, Ms Ocasio-Cortez tweeted in response to Mr Huckabee. Leave the false statements to Sarah Huckabee. Shes much better at it.

Ms Ocasio-Cortez has been the focus of frequent right wing ridicule since her surprise primary victory earlier this year, with her critics mocking her for gaffes as she prepares to be sworn into office next month.

Ocasio-Cortez compares her election to moon landing. Huh? Big difference. Moon landing was LUNAR, not LOONEY; Moon landing done by ppl who knew what they were doing...those who elected someone who thought there were 3 branches of Congress did NOT. https://t.co/Kc3nvvByN3

 Gov. Mike Huckabee (@GovMikeHuckabee) December 2, 2018

A Green New Deal will take a level of ambition + innovation on the scale of the moon landing. Weve been done it before, and can do it again.



Leave the false statements to Sarah Huckabee. Shes much better at it.



Also, you havent been a Governor of any state for 10+ years now. https://t.co/R7q5CkMw8Y

 Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@Ocasio2018) December 3, 2018

But the representative-elect has proven to be resilient in the face of those criticisms, and often hits back when ridiculed, using the opportunity to continue to promote her Democratic socialist political platform and policies.

Of those policies she has championed is the Green New Deal, as well as a proposal for Medicare for All that would effective give health insurance to all Americans.George HW Bushs body has made its final journey to Washington DC, where the former president lies in state at the US Capitol ahead of funeral services later this week.

Bushs loved ones  including former President George W Bush, the late president's Secret Service detail, and a service dog named Sully  boarded a plane normally reserved for transporting sitting American presidents to accompany the body on its flight from Texas to Maryland, where the plane arrived at Joint Base Andrews at 3.22pm before the late president was transported to the Capitol rotunda in Washington.

Members of the US Military presented a 21-gun salute and an air force band played solemn tributes after the one-term president arrived back in the nation's capital for the final time, accompanied by a brilliant sunset of orange and magenta that framed the Capitol building as the flag-draped casket was carried up the steps to the rotunda by Marines.

In the Capitol Rotunda, several members of Bush's administration sat behind the junior former President Bush and former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, the late president's other son as the late president was brought in and placed on a pedestal in the centre of a throng of mourners. During the ceremony that followed, the president's memory was honoured in speeches by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Speaker of the House Paul Ryan, and Vice President Mike Pence.

"The Greatest Generation achieved all-American accomplishments and exhibited all-American virtues," Mr McConnell said in his remarks. "And it may just be that no one did that as fully as our forty-first president. Even in the ranks of his remarkable generation, he will stand out forever as one of its most especially remarkable sons. George Bush was the best  of the best".

Mr Pence, who this week said he views that the late president was a role model, gave the longest remarks in the Capitol. Like many in the wake of Bush's death on Friday, he remembered him as a man of principle and kindness.

Story continues

"While he was known as the quiet man, it was not for lack of nerve or daring," Mr Pence said. "For in all of his 94 years, President Bush never lost his love of adventure and he never failed to answer the call to serve his country".

Bush served as America's 41st president from 1988 until 1992, and served before that as vice president during Ronald Reagan's administration. Before then, Bush served in the Navy during the Second World War.

He was married to his wife Barbara from 1945 until her death just a few months ago. He had five children with her.

Bush will be eulogized in a funeral service at the National Cathedral in Washington on Wednesday morning before his body will be brought back to his home state of Texas to be buried.

Rev Michael Curry, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church, will lead the funeral. The surviving Bush president is set to eulogise his father, alongside three other individuals close to the late president including former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, former Senator Alan Simpson, and Bush's biographer Jon Meacham, who also eulogised Barbara Bush.

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump are expected to attend the funeral, though Mr Trump has not been invited to speak during the ceremony in a break from tradition that has seen sitting presidents give remarks on their deceases predecessors previously. Mr Trump will be joined by every living former president at the funeral  Mr Bush, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and Jimmy Carter  as well as all but one former first lady of the US.

In response to Bush's death, the nation has seen an outpouring of respect and mourning, with Mr Bush saying that his late father  whose last words were reportedly "I love you" after a call with his son  will be remembered as a great president.

I think he's going to go down as the greatest one-term president ever, George W. Bush, the late former presidents son, said of his father in an interview in 60 Minutes that aired over the weekend.

The casket will go by train to the Texas A&M University in College Station in a glass car, through which onlookers can see. After that, Mr Bushs body will be buried next to his wife and daughter.

The former president died at the age of 91 after suffering with a variety of health problems, including Parkinsons. The day after his wife died, he was hospitalised for a blood infection. This will be the first funeral for a former US president in 12 years.As the 30th anniversary of the Lockerbie disaster approaches  this is the resting place of doomed flight Pan Am 103.

The remains of the flight from Detroit to Frankfurt which was bombed as it flew over the Scottish town on December 21 1988 lie almost forgotten, in a scrap yard near Boston, in Lincolnshire.

The terror attack killed all 243 passengers and 16 crew members on board, along with 11 Lockerbie residents on the ground.

The 325 tons of aluminium alloy, including part of the fuselage bearing the identification number N739PA, are fenced off in a scrapyard next to a go-kart track, and cannot be moved until all investigations into the atrocity have been concluded, and as yet their fate remains unclear.

The wreckage of Pan Am flight 103 lays in a scrap yard in Lincolnshire, 30 years on from the disaster. (SWNS)

Following the atrocity, parts of the plane were taken over the English border for examination to an army base near Carlisle.

The fuselage, where the bomb exploded, remains under wraps at the HQ of the Air Accidents Investigation Branch in Farnborough, Hants.

Though the rest of the wreckage, which includes engine parts and pieces of the Boeing 747 nose cone, was transported to Windleys Salvage in Tattershall, near Boston, Lincs, where it has remained ever since.

In August 2017, the family of Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset al-Megrahi, who was convicted of the attack, lodged a new bid to appeal against his conviction  five years after his death.

The scene in Lockerbie on December 21 1988 after flight Pan Am 103 exploded over the Borders town. (PA Archive)

According to a BBC report in May 2018, a review of al-Megrahis conviction was to be carried out by the Scottish Criminal Cases Review Commission.

The commission said it would examine the case to decide whether it would be appropriate to refer the matter for a fresh appeal.

It is believed the new appeal bid is based on concerns over the evidence that convicted the Libyan, including that given by Maltese shopkeeper Tony Gauci, who died last year.Paris (AFP) - The French government has backed down on planned fuel tax hikes in a bid to draw the heat out of fierce protests that have escalated into the deepest crisis of Emmanuel Macron's presidency.

The concessions, coming after an earlier 500-million-euro ($570 million) relief package for poorer households, mark the first time 40-year-old Macron has given ground in the face of public opposition.

Prime Minister Edouard Philippe announced Tuesday rollbacks on fuel taxes and electricity price increases in a rare televised address after France was rocked by intense street clashes and vandalism in Paris over the weekend.

"This anger, you would have to be deaf and blind not to see it, nor hear it," Philippe said after more than a fortnight of demonstrations by so-called "yellow vest" protesters.

"No tax merits putting the unity of the nation in danger," he said.

Planned tax increases on petrol and diesel on January 1 will be suspended for six months, while hikes in regulated electricity and gas prices will be frozen during the winter.

Pressure has been mounting on the government after protests degenerated into the worst street clashes in central Paris for decades.

Across France, four people have been killed in accidents linked to the demonstrations and road blockades, and hundreds injured.

For weeks Macron held his ground on the fuel taxes, which are meant to finance anti-pollution policies but critics say unfairly weigh on drivers in rural and small-town France.

Rescinding the January increase -- three euro cents for unleaded and six cents for diesel -- was a core demand of the demonstrators, alongside a higher minimum wage and the return of a wealth tax on high earners that Macron abolished.

Two groups blockading petrol depots in Brittany said they would stand down following the announcement of the measures, which will cost public coffers some two billion euros ($2.3 billion).

- Praise from Trump -

Story continues

Yet many others said they had no intention of stopping the demonstrations.

"They hope we'll now go home but we're not going to move," said Lionel Rambeaux, a 41-year-old welder manning a fuel depot blockade outside Le Mans in western France.

"We want Macron and his entire government to resign."

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Macron's retreat vindicated his rejection of the 2015 Paris Agreement on combating climate change.

"I am glad that my friend @EmmanuelMacron and the protestors in Paris have agreed with the conclusion I reached two years ago," Trump tweeted.

"The Paris Agreement is fatally flawed because it raises the price of energy for responsible countries while whitewashing some of the worst polluters...in the world."

Trump also retweeted a false claim from American conservative student activist Charlie Kirk that said: "'We want Trump' being chanted through the streets of Paris."

The French government is hoping to stave off another day of running riots and burning cars like on Saturday, when more than 400 people were arrested in the capital.

Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said extra police would be deployed next Saturday on top of the 65,000 out in force last weekend, urging "reasonable" members of the movement to stay at home.

Paris Saint-Germain's home Ligue 1 football match against Montpellier on Saturday has already been called off, as has an electro music festival in the city centre.

Mass protests have repeatedly forced French presidents into U-turns, something Macron had vowed to avoid in his quest to "transform" the French economy and state.

A new poll by the Ifop-Fiducial survey group on Tuesday showed the former investment banker's approval rating at a record low of 23 percent.

"Eventually he backed down, which is going to divide the (yellow vest) movement, but it also risks dividing his own political base," said Jerome Sainte-Marie of the PollingVox survey group.

- 'Original sin' -

Macron's office said he would not speak publicly about the violence "for the time being", though he met briefly with a protester at his office Tuesday.

He also visited local government offices in the central town of Puy-en-Velay, which were torched during a protest last weekend -- and was booed upon leaving.

The "yellow vest" movement, named after the high-visibility jackets worn by supporters, emerged on social media in October after months of swelling anger over rising fuel prices.

It quickly grew into wider protests against Macron, whom many accuse of representing a Parisian elite with little understanding of their monthly struggle to make ends meet.

Immediately after coming to power in 2017, Macron pushed through tax cuts for entrepreneurs and high-earners -- an "original sin" for his critics.

The "yellow vest" protests have blocked highways and fuel depots around the country, causing headaches for businesses and fuel shortages in some regions.By Doina Chiacu and Jan Wolfe WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump on Monday called for a "full and complete" sentence for his former lawyer Michael Cohen, accusing him of lying about Trump's business dealings with Russia during the 2016 presidential campaign to get reduced jail time. Cohen, who is cooperating with a federal probe into whether Trump's campaign worked with Russia to sway the election, is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 12 after pleading guilty to tax evasion, making false statements to a bank, campaign finance violations, and lying to Congress. In a court filing last week, Cohen said he had pursued a proposed Trump Organization real estate project in Moscow with Russian government officials well into the presidential campaign, with Trump's knowledge. Cohen, once Trump's self-described "fixer," admitted he lied to Congress when he said efforts to pursue the Moscow project ended in January 2016, when they actually continued until June 2016, after Trump had clinched the Republican presidential nomination. Lawyers for Cohen asked a federal judge in New York on Friday not to sentence him to prison. After the plea deal, Trump described Cohen as weak and a liar and said he himself did nothing wrong in relation to the Moscow project. In a series of tweets on Monday, the president accused Cohen of cooperating with Special Counsel Robert Mueller's Russia probe in exchange for a reduced sentence on the unrelated tax fraud and campaign finance charges. "'Michael Cohen asks judge for no Prison Time'. You mean he can do all of the TERRIBLE, unrelated to Trump, things having to do with fraud, big loans, Taxis, etc., and not serve a long prison term?" Trump said. "He lied for this outcome and should, in my opinion, serve a full and complete sentence." Trump has described Mueller's probe as a political witch hunt. Russia denies interfering in the U.S. election. It is unusual for a U.S. president or any senior government official to comment on court proceedings. Trump has regularly opined on sensitive judicial proceedings from the special counsel's case to federal appeals court rulings. Several lawyers said Trump's tweet amounted to witness tampering. PARDON ROULETTE Trump's comments about Cohen contrasted with his expressions of sympathy for former associates caught in the web of Mueller's investigation, including former 2016 campaign chairman Paul Manafort, who faces sentencing after being convicted of tax and bank fraud charges. The Republican president has refused to rule out a pardon for Manafort. On Monday, Trump praised longtime associate and Republican operative Roger Stone, who has been under scrutiny by investigators over his comments about leaked Democratic emails during the 2016 presidential campaign. Stone told ABC News on Sunday he would not testify against Trump and has not discussed a pardon with the president. "Nice to know that some people still have 'guts!'" Trump said in another Twitter post on Monday. There was a strong case against the president for witness tampering because of his prior acts and statements, like dangling the possibility of a pardon for his Manafort, legal experts said. George Conway, who is married to senior Trump adviser Kellyanne Conway, retweeted Trump's tweet with a reference to a U.S. statute on witness tampering and obstruction of justice: "File under '18 U.S.C.  1503, 1512.'" "I think it is both obstruction and witness tampering," said Lisa Kern Griffin, a former federal prosecutor and law professor at Duke University. "He (Trump) is attempting to influence an ongoing investigation in an overt way." Federal law makes it a crime to knowingly intimidate, threaten, or persuade another person to withhold testimony in an investigation. It is highly inappropriate for a president to insert himself into a judicial process, said Jens Ohlin, a professor at Cornell Law School. "Hes not just a regular person. Hes the head of the executive branch." (Reporting by Doina Chiacu; Additional reporting by Brendan Pierson and Karen Freifeld in New York; Editing by Grant McCool and Paul Simao)Best Life

Whether you're playing football with your friends or participating in an intense trivia night, you might be someone who's always in it to win it. There are also times where a little competition can be good for you. Some people thrive on competition, which helps them perform better both in the workplace and in their personal lives. But while everyone behaves differently in a contest, some competitors are much more ruthless than others. Research conducted by RunRepeata review and ranking site thaohio bitcoin tax crypto

Well, heres something we didnt expect this early in the century. Ohios state government is now accepting Bitcoin and Bitcoin Cash via its payment portal, serviced by BitPay.

As CCN reported:

Ohio will become the first state in the US to officially accept tax payments in bitcoin, according to a Wall Street Journal report. Beginning this week, businesses who plan to make settlements for their taxes with bitcoin can visit OhioCrypto.com and register to pay all their corporate taxes to the government in BTC. The state government has partnered with crypto payment processor BitPay to handle the payment in crypto and conversion to dollars for the tax office.

Now, lets talk terminology.

Throughout its history, Bitcoin was not truly a currency, even though it had most properties of currency, because it could not be used to pay taxes. This was one of the first things we come to understand about it, and is at the heart of why it had been regulated as a security or investment asset class. In the same way that you cant take a few pounds of gold or a dozen Walmart gift cards to the tax office, you previously could not pay your taxes using Bitcoin.

Is Bitcoin a Real Currency?

bitcoin price

Except now you can, in at least one state, which happens to be where the most proactive congressman on the issue of cryptocurrencies and blockchain, Warren Davidson, comes from.

Which raises the question: is Bitcoin now to be considered a real-deal currency?

Well, its hard to argue that the ecosystem is fully matured enough. While Bitcoiners in Ohio now have a convenient way to turn over precious coinage to BitPay, wholl convert it to dollars for the state, how many landlords in the region are accepting Bitcoin for rent? Can they pay their utilities with it? These are important metrics. Because if people can stay completely within the crypto economy, from getting paid in BTC all the way to paying their taxes in it, then weve essentially got a competing currency. If we get that far along, this author for one expects some backlash. Violent backlash, even.

Story continues

Bitcoin fails the means test if the definition of currency requires that it be issued or controlled by a central authority, this much is true. While Ohio and other states, as well as countries in the EU, definitively want to attract Bitcoiners with moves like this, the fact is that were only getting started. There will be plenty to go around, and it seems that if blockchain is truly as transformative as it promises to be, then eventually the primary purpose of fiat money will, in fact, be to simply pay taxes, while most of daily life is transacted by other means, be they cryptocurrencies or notes pinned to them.

At this point, the safest route of interpretation is that Bitcoin remains a cryptocurrency. After all, the Ohio government didnt announce any plans to stockpile it.

However, on that note, the move does demonstrate the essential payments superiority of cryptocurrency: fees are much smaller here. Anyone whos dealt with state governments knows they dont like to pay processing fees, and often enough theres a $2-3 charge, sometimes more (sometimes even a percentage), when trying to pay debts and fees to the government. Well have to watch Ohio for other developments which might transform the rust belt state into a true haven for cryptocurrencies and development.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not represent those of, nor should they be attributed to, CCN.

Images from Shutterstock



The post Op-Ed: Ohios Crypto Play Proves Bitcoin is Becoming a Currency appeared first on CCN.

Does he still have that husband on the sunken place?

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A husband was definitely mentioned.

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On page nine Milo states that he had to return his wedding ring to Cartier to pay off the outstanding debt he owed them. I'd like to think his husband would take this opportunity to leave, but probably not.

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Sucks to suck you piece of shit!

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perfection

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More fun stuff. Three running debt spreadsheets! pic.twitter.com/Tb0rhfiaVp  K. Thor Jensen (@kthorjensen) December 2, 2018





deplatfoming them is truly the way to go. once they can't grift on twitter they're forgotten lmao all of these assholes deserve to never see a cent!deplatfoming them is truly the way to go. once they can't grift on twitter they're forgotten

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i saw these docs on twitter earlier and let out the loudest witch cackle



you know when the lawyers start sending you these delicately polite letters you are FUCKED hahaha

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Thank you for adding this quality content.

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Milo inc.



lmao

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i love this song

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ONTD, I'm not even going to ask about your debts



Well mine sure ain't good, but they're better than THAT. Maybe he can sell another Nazi plate to Chris Cooper to make a little scratch.



jk not actually Chris Cooper, I'm sure he's nice

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haha this was my actual thought, my debts are bad, but not millions bad.

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lol ikr i'm suddenly pretty chill about the 3k I owe



Edited at 2018-12-03 04:47 pm (UTC)

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this nasty, facially unharmonic trash deserves all this and more

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My aunt stopped talking to me because she was up his ass and I was telling her what a pos of shit he is. Good riddance!

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Good. Milo is a terrible human



I saw an article on NPR last week that said something like why arent Millennials spending more?: theyre poorer and laughed





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love this song!

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Suffer some more please. Hoping his creditors sue the hell out of him.



I just forked over more money to the dentist today. Have to give him more on Friday for my final filling. Did I mention that I still have 2 extractions and a mouthguard to worry about as well? Also spent a copious amounts on groceries and toiletries, but a few were on special, so I got a few discounts. Still, seeing my bank balance hurts. Did I mention I'm a student living off a scholarship?

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Fuck you Milo!! SUFFER HA

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I have soul crushing student loan debt and come from a family with horrible financial decisions so I usually take no pleasure in other peoples debt, but this gave me a little smile on this shitty Monday morning lol

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LinkIs it me and that I'm old or is (mainstream) music these days kind of shit?

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it's complete shit

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It's not just you

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It's all about moods rather than actual musical talent or style. Everything is a commoditized flash in the pan.

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it's just so male dominated that I don't even really bother with the radio anymore

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Its u

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it's not just you

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Its frightening the state music is in right now.



I never thought chirping like a bird and making the noise, skkkkrt, or muttering repeatedly, yuh, could get you a top 10 hit. I mean, its unreal the songs that chart and succeed. Talents out the door, and were stuck in a music genre rut.



I just look at Lil Pump & Kanyes, I Love It song. These award worthy, artistic lyrics, that basically make up the entire song, Youre such a f****** hoe, I love it..., garned it a Top 10 hit. The beat is underwhelmingly basic. How is a song with no soul or reason, the new standard of being a hit. The younger generation (Im 28, so I say younger gen is 14-25) truly missed out on epic musical periods.



Songs are starting to blend and sound alike. I mean, at a point you can only compose a certain amount of notes, chords, octaves, whatever.



Streaming has branched out the selectiveness that was forced upon us prior to streaming, but now that the gates are open, it becomes exhausting to listen to music when people are throwing out tracks left and right, and an overexcess of options. Its a blessing and a curse because now were exposed to genres we never knew existed, but when you listen across the board, you start to hear the simularities, and it all starts to sound the same.



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talent wins or whatever yall say lol

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Lindsay Calls Paris A "Cunt"/ I never said that tease.



Edited at 2018-12-03 07:35 pm (UTC)

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She and Scooter must be pissed skaksslajd

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Oh god its only one week why would they be livid? lol Itll go number 1 again next week because of the video unless Travis or someone like Drake/Bieber/Abel/Taylor/Rihanna does something

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What does this even mean? lol

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2018 has been the year artists are salty about travis having the aoty

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who the hell keeps playing girls like u like thats enough

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My gym haha

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kohls

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Literally any public space that wants to play ~inoffensive sounding~ music



i.e. literally the reason for the careers of Maroon 5, Imagine Dragons, Coldplay, Shawn Mendes, Selena Gomes, Marshmallow, Hailee Steinfeld, etc.

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I haven't even played it once lmao

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Sicko Mode slaps, Im not mad. Scab Scott also has the number one album this week due to bundles.

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SYMPATHY AND PAYOLA.



nicki v stormi round 2

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Holy shit, PATD has a hit song in 2018???????????? Im shook

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The thread for it on the Pulse music boards has been wild because the past three weeks it started getting RIDICULOUS levels of increased radio play (+spins comparable to Taylor at her peak). Chart watchers are as shook as you are. Basically, it has excellent call outs and its ratings on RateTheMusic have been super high. If the projections hold, I think it should hit #1 at Top 40 radioplay, possibly this week...



Gotta say, I didn't see this coming.

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my nephew did that tbh.

He's been streaming and sending links to everyone. On very device.

PATD and Fallout Boy are his hs favorites - he'll stan til he dies.

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Stormis dad did that I guess

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'girls like you' shouldnt even exist. it is such a non entity of a song.

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That top 10 list is dreadful, my god.

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Just burn the industry down and start from scratch tbh

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high hopes is a bop

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Listen to Lil Baby sis, he slaps.

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Lil Baby does kinda slap

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Yes

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I'm 20 and honestly same but I just know Thank U, next lol

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ariana will be #1 again next week



the top 10 stays awful

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I like the top 5 to varying degrees lol :/

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Yeah, it's not too bad

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Halsey deserved a number 1

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travis scott deserves it. sicko mode is amazing

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LinkQatar will leave the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries as of next month, its energy minister told media today, adding that the decision was part of a long-term strategy for growing its international presence on energy markets with a focus on gas.

Qatar is the worlds largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, but it has Australia breathing down its neck as well as emerging competition from the United States and other, smaller, producers.

Qatar has decided to withdraw its membership from OPEC effective January 2019 and this decision was communicated to OPEC this morning, Saad al-Kaabi said, as quoted by Reuters, at a news conference. He said the decision had been hard to make since Qatar had been a member of the cartel for almost six decades, but it had very little influence on OPEC decisions. Qatar produces about 600,000 bpd, which ranks it among the smaller OPEC producers.

While the minister said the decision to quit had no relation to a Saudi-led blockade by neighbors Qatar has been subjected to for a year and a half now, tense relations with the biggest producer in the region must have had an effect on the final decision.

The group that initiated the blockade, which also includes Egypt, the UAE, and Bahrain, accused Qatar of supporting terrorist groups and being too close to Iran. Qatar has denied the accusations and launched counter-accusations against the leader, Saudi Arabia, of trying for a regime change in the Gulf state.

Qatar has plans to boost its liquefied natural gas production to as much as 100 million tons annually, from a current rate of 77 million tons. It exports gas at a daily rate of about 11 billion cu ft and accounts for almost a third of the global LNG market. The countrys proven gas reserves are estimated at 880 trillion cu ft.



By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:News broke on Saturday that the U.S. and China had reached a ceasefire in its ongoing trade war after President Trump met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Argentina.

According to the White House, the U.S. will still keep in place $200 billion of tariffs on Chinese imports but will not increase those tariffs from 10 percent to 25 percent after the start of the year as originally planned. The deal will also keep, at least for now, Trump from placing another $267 billion worth of Chinese goods under tariffs.

Both sides will immediately hold talks on structural changes concerning forced technology transfers made by Chinese firms on U.S. companies, intellectual property rights protection, non-tariff trade barriers, cyber intrusion concerns, cyber theft and agricultural, the White House added.

Washington and Beijing said they will try to achieve a permanent deal within the next 90 days, however the U.S. still has significant leverage, stating that if a formal deal cant be reached then it will hike tariffs from 10 percent to 25 percent, which could roil global stock markets, stagnate global economic growth, dampen oil demand growth and possibly lead to a recession across the globe, particularly in emerging economies.

Chinese State Councilor Wang Yi told reporters, The two presidents agreed that the two sides can and must get bilateral relations right. He added that negotiations were held in a friendly and candid atmosphere.

China, for its part, also agreed to offset its massive trade imbalance with the U.S. by buying more, but not yet specified amounts, of energy products, agricultural, industrial and other products. China is willing to increase imports in accordance with the needs of its domestic markets and the peoples needs, Wang said, including marketable products from the United States, to gradually ease the imbalance in two-way trade.

Significant take-aways

There are several significant take-aways from this development, including the argument that Trumps hard line, even at times belligerent stance with Beijing, has caused them to blink first, particularly since economic growth in China has already started to feel the brunt of U.S. tariffs, while U.S. economic growth, though not as robust as a few months ago, is still strong.

Another significant take-away from the preliminary agreement could be its impact on energy markets, both U.S. oil import to China and perhaps even more importantly from a development perspective liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports. While neither of these two energy products were mentioned by name, its likely that China would not only appease the U.S. by removing tariffs on U.S. LNG imports but would also help itself since Beijing needs the diversity of supply that growing U.S. shale oil and gas exports offer. Related: LNG Prices Are In A Tailspin Due To Warmer Weather

Yet, LNG is the energy development to watch as the two sides try to hammer out an agreement. China has placed a 10 percent tariff on U.S.-LNG imports with the threat of increasing that figure in the future, resulting in China having to find alternate sources of the super-cooled fuel on the spot market. The downside for China is that it also needs U.S. sourced LNG as its insatiable gas demand expands amid Beijing's mandate that gas make up at least 10 percent of its power generation energy mix by 2020, with further earmarks set for 2030.

LNG is the prize

The U.S. LNG sector also needs Chinese participation, however. Many of the so-called second wave of U.S. LNG projects that are now being planned and/or receiving federal approval will have a difficult time reaching the all-important final investment decision (FID) needed to go forward without Chinese assistance. These projects not only need to sign long-term off-take agreements with Chinese entities, but many of them, particularly newcomers not backed by more experienced oil and gas majors, will need Chinese financing to go ahead.

While it remains to be seen if Washington and Beijing can iron out their trade differences, it would be beneficial for both sides energy sectors to at least reach some sort of deal that would allow the free trade of energy between the two super powers. At the end of the day, two realities remain: the U.S. is now an energy (oil and gas) producing super power alongside the ranks of Russia and Saudi Arabia, while China, conversely, is the worlds largest energy consumer, which gives it less leverage in ongoing trade and even geopolitical negotiations and developments.

By Tim Daiss for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:Qatars withdrawal from OPEC is a surprise for Omans oil minister Mohammed bin Hamad Al Rumhi, who said in an interview with S&P Global Platts on Monday that Qatar might face retaliation from other members that could pull out of a similar organization of gas exporting countries.

Earlier on Monday, Qatar announced that it was withdrawing from OPEC effective January 1, 2019, and had informed OPEC of this decision, Qatar Petroleum said.

Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, Qatars Minister of State for Energy Affairs, said that the decision for the withdrawal reflects Qatars desire to focus its efforts on plans to develop and increase its natural gas production from 77 million tons per year to 110 million tons in the coming years.

However, the motives probably run much deeper than prioritizing natural gas at the worlds top exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG).

OPECs de facto leader and largest producer Saudi Arabia, as well as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Egypt, and several other states cut ties with Qatar in June last year, accusing it of supporting terrorism and destabilizing the region.

Oman, whose oil minister spoke to Platts in Vienna on Monday, is not a member of OPEC but is part of the Russia-led group of non-OPEC producers part of the production cut deal, which has been in place for nearly two years now. Oman is also a member of the six-member Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) alongside Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, and Bahrain.

Omans Al Rumhi warned that Qatar could face retaliation for its withdrawal from OPEC from countries that could withdraw from the Doha-based Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF).

A number of countries could pull out because of Qatars position, Al Rumhi told Platts. I can tell you for sure the UAE will pull out of that organization, I dont think they will continue, and who knows other countries like Algeria that are members of OPEC, Omans oil minister noted.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:CEBU Archbishop Jose Palma has urged the faithful to pray for the blessings they received in 2018 and for President Rodrigo Duterte.He appealed to the public not to cheer on the chief executives unflattering

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) have recommended the extension of martial law in Mindanao for another year.

AFP Chief-of-Staff General Carlito Galvez Jr. said Monday, Dec. 3, that there is a clamor for the extension considering that terrorism is still lurking in the area.

Ang nakikita namin, lahat ng RTOC (Regional Tactical Operations Center), LGU (local government units) and even Comelec (Commission on Elections) and other agencies have recommended for at least one year (extension), he said in an interview with reporters in Camp Aguinaldo.

There is really a need to constrict and limit the maneuver space of the terrorist to the maximum; we have a very weak terrorism law so with that, martial law is needed to completely defeat the terrorism, he added.

PNP Chief Director General Oscar Albayalde said his agency has also sought the martial law extension in Mindanao.

Galvez said the recommendation will be presented to President Rodrigo Duterte through Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana during the AFP change of command on Dec. 12 in Camp Aguinaldo.

Galvez is set to retire on Dec. 12 as he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Sought for comment, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte may be persuaded to extend the martial law implementation for another period of time.

Of course, the President will always evaluate whatever recommendations that the AFP and the PNP will give him... But given the support of martial law in Mindanao, even by a Catholic [archbishop] and the citizens there, the President may be persuaded to go on to approve the recommendation. But of course, again, that is the prerogative of the President, he said.

Duterte declared a 60-day martial law in Mindanao in May 2017 following the attack staged by the Maute terror group in Marawi City.

The attack lasted for five months. It also displaced thousands of families, killed and injured hundreds of people, including soldiers and policemen, and almost flattened the entire city.

Story continues

After the expiration of the 60-day martial law period, government sought the extension of martial law until Dec. 31, 2017 to give way to the ongoing clearing and rehabilitation of Marawi.

In another joint session in December 2017, the Senate and House of Representatives granted Dutertes request for the extension of martial law and the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus until Dec. 31, 2018.

Panelo said Duterte would consider the peoples safety as basis for the possible extension of martial rule.

If the threat remains and there is still an ongoing rebellion, then, constitutionally, the basis would be valid for continuation of martial law, he said.

Under Section 18, Article 7 of the 1987 Constitution, a president can declare martial law and suspend the writ of habeas corpus in any part of the country for a period not exceeding 60 days, in case of invasion or rebellion.

The same provision also provides that such proclamation of martial law or suspension of the privilege of writ of habeas corpus can either be revoked or extended for a period determined by Congress through joint voting.

Some senators earlier expressed opposition to the possible martial law extension in Mindanao, saying that its current implementation has failed to counter insurgency in the region.

Asked if the Palace was confident that it could convince Congress to extend the implementation of martial law in Mindanao, Panelo said: Again, the Constitution grants them the authority to decide whether or not it will extend martial law. So well leave it to them. (TPM, RAG of SunStar Philippines)Beijing steps up naval patrols in Taiwan Strait in pushback at US warships

Taiwans defence ministry confirmed on Monday that naval vessels from the mainland have stepped up patrols in the western part of the Taiwan Strait this year in what analysts say is a reaction to the increased number of US warships sent into the waters to test Beijing.

The ministry was responding to reports in the Taipei-based China Times on Sunday that irregular patrols by Peoples Liberation Army Navy warships in the western side of the strait this year had become routine.

The ministry said the islands forces had effectively monitored the situations and movements around the Taiwan Strait by means of its air and naval mechanisms to ensure national security and regional stability.

Beijing, which considers Taiwan a wayward province awaiting reunification by force if necessary, has suspended official exchanges with Taipei since President Tsai Ing-wen took office on the island in 2016 and refused to accept the one-China principle, which Beijing insists as a political foundation for cross-strait relations.

To try to force Tsai to accept the principle, Beijing has stepped up its military posturing against Taipei with a series of exercises around the island, in addition to poaching five of its allies.

A Taiwanese military source told the South China Morning Post that the PLA used to hold its patrols in waters close to the mainland side, but in recent years had moved closer to the midline of the strait.

Each time the US sent warships through the Taiwan Strait, the PLA has also dispatched its fleets to track the US movements, the source said, adding that the Taiwanese military also shadowed the mainland vessels.

Since July 7, the US has sent three batches of warships past Taiwan in freedom of navigation exercises in the strait and the South China Sea, where Beijing is building on disputed islands.

The first, on July 7, included two destroyers; the second, on October 22, involved a frigate and destroyer. On Wednesday, soon after the islands local elections, the US sent a guided missile destroyer and an oiler through the strait ahead of the meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump at the G20 summit in Argentina.

Story continues

Beijing says US playing Taiwan card after warships sail through strait

Beijing reacted strongly each time. After last weeks action, both the mainland defence and foreign ministries expressed concerns and repeated Beijings stand on protecting Chinas sovereignty in relation to Taiwan.

This article Beijing steps up naval patrols in Taiwan Strait in pushback at US warships first appeared on South China Morning Post

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018.Beyonce led an all-star line-up including Ed Sheeran, Jay-Z and Usher in Johannesburg at a concert to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela on Sunday. The concert was the climax of a year of events celebrating the centennial of Mandela's birth in 1918, and part of a campaign to tackle poverty, child malnutrition and boost gender equality. This year's Global Citizen Festival was held at Johannesburg's 94,736-capacity FNB staium and saw Beyonce perform several of her hits as well as a duet with Sheeran. Thousands of music fans, many of whom had received free tickets to reward their activism and campaigning work, flocked to the stadium hours before the concert began. "I'm proud to be part of the global citizen movement because they are trying to make a positive impact on people's lives -- especially women's and children's issues," said Nokthula Khuzwayo, 23, from Soweto. "I loved Dbanj's performance and of course Queen B and Jay-Z, even though it was a brief one." As well as a constellation of global stars that also included Pharrell Williams and Coldplay's Chris Martin, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted fellow heads of state from Ghana, Rwanda and Sierra Leone. "We are here to act in one voice," said Ramaphosa. Beyonce's performance of her smash hit XO, during which she wore a flowing pink-red dress and paid tribute to Mandela, drew an outpouring of emotion from the crowd. - 'Take action' - South African stars Trevor Noah, who was the host, and Bonang Matheba also made appearances, as the largely local crowd braved heavy downpours to attend. Ahead of the concert co-host Oprah Winfrey hailed Mandela's "goodness and integrity", describing him as her "favourite mentor". Mandela was imprisoned for decades under South Africa's apartheid regime. After being released in 1990, he led the country's transformation into a multi-racial democracy and was elected its first president. He died on December 5, 2013, aged 95. Earlier on Sunday, Mandela's widow Graca Machel, draped in a bright yellow and blue dress, took to the stage to honour her late husband in front of the near-capacity crowd. And Mandela's grandson Ndaba Mandela told festival-goers: "Today it is a privilege and choice for us to take action on behalf of the hundreds of millions of people trapped in the cycle of poverty. "So I plead with you, don't think of this as just a music festival, this is a call to the hearts and minds of humanity all across the world." The Global Citizen initiative aims to help eradicate extreme poverty by 2030 and has staged events in other world cities including London, Brussels, and New York. According to the initiative's founder Hugh Evans, more than $2 billion have been pledged to good causes following the Johannesburg gig, beating the $1 billion goal. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted ahead of the event pledging $50 million to women's and girl's education projects. Event organisers earlier paid tribute to a rigger who died following a fall while helping to prepare the stage on Saturday. "The circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated," Global Citizen said in a statement.FIRST, what people are talking about:'LOOMING' ARREST OF MARIA RESSA. Rappler's chief executive officer Maria Ressa herself said Sunday (December 2) an arrest warrant has been issued against

FIRST, what people are talking about:

'LOOMING' ARREST OF MARIA RESSA. Rappler's chief executive officer Maria Ressa herself said Sunday (December 2) an arrest warrant has been issued against her due to multiple tax evasion cases. The arrest won't keep her long in detention; the charges are bailable. Malacanang has denied it is persecution against Rappler, the digital news site, but much of the country and the world won't believe the denial.

COMELEC ON SOCIAL MEDIA. The poll body will regulate and monitor candidates' use of social media but "only to determine cost" or the money they spend on the propaganda platform. How would that be and would they succeed when even on traditional platforms Comelec has failed?

Ex-senator on police control

Senate would-be returnee Sergio Osmena III thinks his brother Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmena was wrong in freeing three butane canister vendors from police custody last August 24 was not right. "Mali (a mistake)," he said, "(President) Duterte was right there."

Serge, who is running for a Senate seat in 2019, did not say though if the President was right in publicly shaming his brother at least three times. Duterte in each occasion threatened he would slap the mayor if they would meet.

Serge told Eric S. Manait on dyCM radio Friday (November 30) that mayors have no control over the police. Local government leaders are supposed to have supervision over the police but that has not been clearly defined and often they operate without direction from mayors or the governor. In Cebu City, particularly, the police and the mayor are at odds with each other. LGUs, Serge said, help the police by providing gas and allowances but, he indicated, they don't submit to control.

Serge also did not say in the Manait interview that even if the police had control over the police, the power would not include release suspects of a crime from police detention.

Tomas's formal defense

Story continues

Did Serge know that his brother the mayor last November 1, in his formal answer to the police charges against him, said the arrest was illegal, the reason he meddled and ordered the release of the three butane canister vendors.

An unlike Serge, the brother Tomas believes the mayor has control and supervision over the police and can order the arrest or release of a suspect "if justified."

Anyway, Serge's published belief cannot affect Tomas's ombudsman case. The former senator is not a lawyer but an economist. But it shows that even Tomas's sibling thinks what the mayor did was wrong. "Mali."

His pitch: I'm an economist

How much has Serge been campaigning, compared with the likes of Ilocos Norte Governor Imee Marcos or former presidential "go-for" Bong Go?

Serge was asked if he started visiting Cebu. "Wa pa," he said. But then even in his 2013 bid, which he lost, he had not been seen in his native province, maybe relying on his brod Tomas to deliver the votes.

How is he messaging the young voters, the "millennials"? By Facebook.

Even his pitch is not aggressive. He said he is an economist and "if you think the Senate needs an economist, then maybe you will vote for me."

***

Tell us about it.

[paseares@gmail.com]ON exhibit at the third floor of Ayala Center Cebu are Celso Pepitos sketches made during his recent trip to Peru and the United States. The exhibit displays the artists skill in drawing what he

ON exhibit at the third floor of Ayala Center Cebu are Celso Pepitos sketches made during his recent trip to Peru and the United States. The exhibit displays the artists skill in drawing what he sawfive, 30 or so minutesas he went through these two places. Thus, it is a different kind of Celso Pepito one sees here; not his trademark paintings showing love of God, family and country. Though in some of the sketches, there are those, too.

The artist considers this a minor exhibit but it is his 42nd solo show. He said he did it not only to celebrate his 62nd birthday but also to inspire my viewers to value the importance of time. To be productive even in a limited time and space. To encourage my fellow artists to embrace the importance of sketching and to transform any travel into an opportunity of creative undertakings. Thus, he calls the exhibit The Creative Journey.

My trip to Trujillo and Miraflores in Peru had given me the opportunity to create nine pieces in pen and pencil sketches. In Stockton and Sacramento, I finished six sketches in pen, pencil and two acrylic paintings. In Florida, I finished 19 sketches in pen and pencil, eight watercolors and four acrylic paintings.

Pepitos creative journey did not stop in Peru or the United States.

In line with the theme of this exhibit, I also initiated a collaborative artistic endeavor with Dexter Alazas. The objective is for me to discover another venue for my creative undertakings. It has also given me the opportunity to inject art with for Atelier Alazas fashion design. Above all, it will be an opportunity for the local hablon industry to be introduced to the Cebuano community through the art of fashion and the art of painting. The title of the painting I did on this dress is Enhancing the Heritage. The medium I used was acrylic.

Pepitos The Creative Journey opened not with a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony but by the unveiling of a Dexter Alazas black evening gown, revealing the painting of Pepito on the gowns skirt.

Story continues

For the longest time, Pepitos works showed love of family, God and country. This was because, he explained, someone early in his career had asked him what the purpose was for his paintings. Coming up with the answer, he set out to paint in his distinctive manner. But as The Creative Journey shows, his art is not limited to that, nor is his vision for himself and for others like him whom he wants to inspire to create.

Life is short. Time is golden.

The Creative Journey will be up until Dec. 22.PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte assured the public on Monday, December 3, that he will not grant pardon to three Caloocan policemen who were found guilty of murdering 17-year-old Kian Lloyd delos Santos during

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte assured the public on Monday, December 3, that he will not grant pardon to three Caloocan policemen who were found guilty of murdering 17-year-old Kian Lloyd delos Santos during an anti-drug operation in August 2017.

"No, of course not. Maybe one million years from now. Kung one billion years, okay na (Or one billion years, that would be fine)," Duterte said when asked if he would pardon the three Caloocan cops involved in Delos Santos's killing.

Delos Santos, a Grade 11 student, was shot to death after allegedly resisting arrest during a "One time, Big Time" anti-drug operation conducted by the Caloocan City police on August 16, 2017.

A closed-circuit television camera footage, however, showed that Delos Santos did not resist arrest.

Caloocan Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 125 has sentenced Police Officer (PO) 3 Arnel Oares, PO1 Jeremias Pereda, and PO1 Jerwin Cruz to 40-year imprisonment without parole.

The Caloocan court also ordered Oares, Pereda, and Cruz to pay civil indemnity, as well as moral, actual, and exemplary damages amounting to P345,000 to Delos Santos's family.

The three Caloocan cops, however, were not found guilty of planting illegal drugs and a gun "for failure of the prosecution to prove the guilt beyond reasonable doubts."

Duterte maintained that he would only protect police officers whose lives are in danger during arrest of resisting drug suspects.

"Look, ang sinabi ko, I will defend to death my soldier and my policemen if they commit some acts which can be considered criminal, but done in the performance of their duty. Hindi ko iiwanan iyan kasi kung hindi, papatayin ako ng mga sundalo ko pati pulis, kasi ako ang nag-utos sa kanila ng ganoon," he said.

(Look, what I said is I will defend to death my soldier and my policemen if they commit some acts which can be considered criminal, but done in the performance of their duty. I will not leave them because soldiers and policemen will kill me since I was the one who gave the order.)

"Pero for you to murder, hindi kasali iyan (But murder is not included). There's only one way that it can happen -- that you are in the performance of your duty, or duty-connected, then there is an event there that's happening and your life is in danger, then you can kill your opponent. That is what the law says," he added. (SunStar Philippines)China will host a state visit by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier this week as Beijing seeks to lock up economic ties with major European powers amid a trade war with the United States.

Steinmeiers six-day visit from Wednesday, his first to China since becoming Germanys president in March 2017, will include meetings with Chinese leaders and a trip to the provinces of Guangdong and Sichuan in the countrys south.

Steinmeier was German Chancellor Angela Merkels foreign minister from 2005-09 and 2013-17, and advocated greater engagement with China.

But he attracted criticism in the West in 2007 when he refused to meet the Dalai Lama, leading to accusations that he was putting business interests ahead of human rights.

Beijing views the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader as a dangerous separatist and has lobbied foreign leaders against meeting him. Ties between China and Germany were strained for months after Merkel met the Dalai Lama following her first official trip to China in 2007.

Steinmeiers trip comes as trade between the countries is on track to reach an all-time high this year, foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said last week.

Lu said he hoped the upcoming China trip would further cement political ties and increase the countries strategic mutual trust.

Beijing is seeking to build economic ties with major European countries amid tensions with Washington over trade and technology.

Even though Chinese President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump reached a 90-day truce on the two countries trade war late on Saturday in Buenos Aires, analysts warned that Washington could continue to try to block Chinas attempts to close the technology gap with the US through its Made in China 2025 initiative.

The programme is at the forefront of Beijings plan to transform itself into an innovative hi-tech powerhouse by 2025. And when the US started implementing 25 per cent tariffs on US$34 billion worth of Chinese goods in July, it targeted 818 products central to the programme, particularly technological parts.

Story continues

In the meantime, Germany, like other European Union members, must be careful to avoid alienating either China or the US.

Germany and China share an interest in opposing unilateralism and defending the multilateral trading system based on rules enforced by the World Trade Organisation.

German firms will invest more in China despite trade war, slow reform

Over the weekend on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Xi told Merkel that China was ready to make joint efforts with Germany to safeguard multilateralism and an open world economy, according to state news agency Xinhua.

Merkel said Germany appreciated Chinas commitment to multilateral cooperation and resolved to uphold the Paris Agreement on climate change.

But there is common ground between Germany and the US  for years both have been aggrieved at Chinas slow progress in lifting market barriers to foreign investment and cutting the subsidies it gives state enterprises.

Wang Yiwei, a European studies professor at Renmin University, said China and Germany needed each another to withstand the US trade friction and to explore the market potential for Chinas artificial intelligence advances, among other things.

Donald Trumps threat to levy 25 per cent tariffs on European carmakers has been the sword of Damocles for Germany, he said.

Xi reaches out to Europe as US trade showdown at G20 looms

Chinese analysts have urged Beijing to fix its relations with its trading partners to counter the pressure from Washington.

A source close to the Chinese government said that pressure being exerted by the US, the EU and Japan on China over its trade practices and industrial policies had Beijing worried that its standing in the world could deteriorate.

The source said the central government must take quick, concrete action to create a level playing field for foreign investment and reduce the subsidies it unnecessarily gives its state firms.

Although China has risen to become the worlds second-biggest economy, it did not move towards more opening up as it pledged or [had been] expected in the West, the source said. Its rise should not deviate from the mainstream society of Europe and the US.

After Merkels visit to China in July, Beijing approved German chemical giant BASFs plans to build a wholly owned plant in Guangdong. It also allowed German carmaker BMW to raise its stake in its joint venture with Chinas Brilliance Automotive to 75 per cent from half, making BMW the first company in Chinas vehicle sector to take advantage of Beijings removal of foreign-ownership limits.

Business insiders called the moves goodwill gestures aimed at cementing the trading alliance with Germany. But they still called for a wider opening up of Chinas markets.

Chinese Vice-Premier Liu He said last week in Hamburg that China was willing to promote deeper cooperation with Germany in finance, trade and investment, and work closely with it to defend free trade.

Exit the Dragon? Germany gets tough on Chinese investment

When German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas visited China in November, he said talks with Chinese leaders focused not only on trade, but on the human rights issues related to the reported massive detention of Uygur Muslims in Xinjiang. The Uygurs talks, however, were free of controversy, Reuters reported.

China has overtaken the US in the past two years as Germanys largest trading partner, according to German and Chinese statistics. Germany has long been Chinas biggest trading partner in the EU. Chinas trade volume with Germany alone is equivalent to its total combined trade volume with Britain, France and Italy.

But despite its close trade interaction with China, Germany is still wary of the impact of Chinas state capitalism on market competition and its potential to erode the competitiveness of German partners. Germany also has voiced its concern about the effects of an increased Chinese presence on centralEuropean countries.

While Germany has said it welcomes Chinas ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, a trade plan to link economies from Europe to Asia and Africa into a China-centred trading network, it has not fully embraced the concept.

As China pours investment into its belt and road countries, the German government has tightened its investment scrutiny because of national security concerns and blocked a Chinese proposal to acquire German machine equipment maker Leifeld Metal Spinning.

But Gavakel Dragonomics economist Xie Yanmei said Germany was far more reluctant than the US to confront China and remains committed to engagement, so it will not sign up for a cross-Atlantic alliance to contain China.

Beijing is unlikely to covert Berlin into an ally, but doesnt need to worry about it turning into an open foe either, Xie said in a research note.

In a business confidence survey released on Tuesday, the German Chamber of Commerce in China called for the establishment of a reliable and transparent regulation environment.

US-China decoupling is already under way, says author

It also said that while half of the companies in its survey believed in Beijings commitment to further opening its markets, the results have fallen short of the expectations of German companies in China.

In addition, the chamber called Made in China 2025 a good opportunity for joint business development, but it said non-transparent framework and subsidy conditions as well as the preferential treatment of Chinese companies hamper the dynamic cooperation between German and Chinese partners.

This article German president heads to China as Beijing courts European economic ties first appeared on South China Morning Post

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018.

More from South China Morning Post:China and the United States took a big step forward in relations to reach a trade war truce, US President Donald Trump said on Monday, as China prepared to send a big delegation to America for further talks.

In a series of tweets, Trump said his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Buenos Aires on the weekend was an extraordinary one.

Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward! Very good things will happen. We are dealing from great strength, but China likewise has much to gain if and when a deal is completed. Level the field! Trump said in the tweet, adding that he and Xi had a very strong and personal relationship.

He and I are the only two people that can bring about massive and very positive change, on trade and far beyond, between our two great Nations. A solution for North Korea is a great thing for China and ALL!

Trump also said US farmers would benefit from Chinas agreement to buy more American agricultural products, and Beijing had agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on US cars.

Beijing raised tariffs on American cars to 40 per cent over the summer as the tit-for-tat trade war escalated. But the Chinese ministries of foreign affairs, commerce and finance offered no comment on whether China had agreed to cut the duties.

Trumps tweets followed an agreement between the US and China on the weekend to hold off on imposing new tariffs for 90 days.

A source familiar with the trade talks said China was expected to send about 30 officials to Washington for discussions next but it was not known who would be in the delegation.

In an interview with US news outlet National Public Radio on Monday, White House adviser Peter Navarro said US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer would be in charge of negotiations with China over the next 90 days.

My meeting in Argentina with President Xi of China was an extraordinary one. Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward! Very good things will happen. We are dealing from great strength, but China likewise has much to gain if and when a deal is completed. Level the field!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 3, 2018

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said on Monday that officials from both sides were working hard towards the goals set out by the presidents of China and the US in their meeting.

Story continues

As the next step, both sides will speed up negotiations based on the consensus reached between the two countries leaders, Geng said.

China is keenly watching the political environment in Washington  they know that Trump needs a deal to brag about

James Zimmerman, former chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China

China is willing to open up its market and expand imports according to the progress of its new round of reform and opening up, as well as the needs of its people and domestic market, and to ease concerns on issues surrounding China-US trade relations.

The two sides have three months to tackle their differences over forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariffs barriers and cyber intrusions. If there is no progress, the US has said it will go ahead with increases in duties that it had threatened to apply from January 1.

The agreement was a shot in the arm for markets, with the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index rising 2.57 per cent to end Monday at 2654.8, and Hong Kongs Hang Seng Index closing up 2.44 per cent at 27,182.04.

But US business executives and analysts warned that the overall momentum may be short-lived because the weekend meeting did not address fundamental or structural trade issues.

Jake Parker, US-China Business Council vice-president for China operations, said the ceasefire delayed further escalation but this is where the hard work begins.

It is unreasonable to assume that all challenges in the relationship can be resolved in 90 days. Both sides should instead aim for substantive, measurable and commercially meaningful outcomes and a long-term engagement framework, Parker said.

Setting targets that can be fully implemented by the end of 90 days, medium-term goals by the end of 2019, and longer-term goals that can be realised in the following three-to-five years would be ideal.

Our economic team [says] that this needs to be a real agreement

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin

He said China should fully deliver on the commitments to opening up it made earlier, including to allow foreign majority control of life insurance joint ventures and to start taking applications for foreign bank card clearing institutions and credit rating agencies.

There should also be an ongoing dialogue to ensure any gains achieved are not one-time, but instead are permanent, positive changes in how foreign companies are treated in China, Parker said.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin also warned that Beijing should avoid soft commitments in talks, according to the Financial Times. There is a 100 per cent unanimous view on our economic team that this needs to be a real agreement, Mnuchin was quoted as saying.

The White House said in a statement that both countries would talk to address non-tariff market barriers, cyber theft and forced technology transfer  the latter two of which Beijing denies take place.

It also said China agreed to buy US agricultural and energy products  after suspending purchases of US soybeans and crude oil for months.

James Zimmerman, a former chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, said Chinas agreement to buy more US goods was non-binding and based upon market demand.

And Xi knows that Trump is anxious for a deal, any deal. Well see what happens in 90 days, Zimmerman said.

Once the dust settles and pundits pick apart the deal, we will all realise that the deliverables were drivel and the mighty trade war was for naught

James Zimmerman

China is keenly watching the political environment in Washington, with all its toxicity and gloom, and for a lot of reasons they know that Trump needs a deal to brag about. Any resolution with China will have more to do with Trumps political fortunes than something intended to support American business, workers and consumers.

He expected that China would offer the US essentially what was in the Bilateral Investment Treaty negotiated by the previous US administration but abandoned by Trump.

[There] may be a bit more to sweeten the pot but not much more, Zimmerman said.

The deal will be superficial and packed with imprecision and distant deadlines, but enough to allow Trump to run a victory lap. Then, once the dust settles and pundits pick apart the deal, we will all realise that the deliverables were drivel and the mighty trade war was for naught.

Everbright Sun Hung Kai, a Hong Kong-based financial services agency, said the outcome from Buenos Aires was short-term positive and it remained to be seen what the lasting impact would be.

Goldman Sachs warned that the pause would prolong the period of uncertainty of bilateral trade tensions and the three-month negotiation period would mean there would be limited concrete outcomes to address thorny issues.

Additional reporting by Catherine Wong and Teddy Ng

This article A big leap forward: Donald Trump praises talks with Xi Jinping as China readies for trade mission first appeared on South China Morning Post

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018.

More from South China Morning Post:A series of attacks against Chinese people and institutions overseas have exposed a weak link in the countrys efforts to expand its presence overseas

Industry insiders and analysts, speaking in the wake of last months attack on the Chinese consulate in Karachi, said the country needed to be more aware of the risks from terrorism and improve security for its citizens and businesses.

The Karachi attack, in which two civilians and two police officers died along with the three attackers, was carried out by the Balochistan Liberation Army, which has accused Beijing of destroying the future of the province.

Balochistan is at the heart of the US$63 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and is home to the port of Gwadar, where Beijing is said to be developing its second overseas military base.

The attack was the second targeting Chinese nationals in Balochistan in just four months. In August, six people, three of them Chinese nationals, were injured when a bus carrying Chinese engineers was attacked in the area.

Industry insiders and analysts said Chinese people overseas now face a higher risk of attack as the country expands its influence overseas.

Some 30,000 Chinese-headquartered firms have overseas operations and over 100 million Chinese citizens travel abroad annually, according to the foreign ministry.

Last year, Chinas outward direct investment stood at US$158.29 billion, according to the commerce ministry, and the country is working on a number of international infrastructure projects under its Belt and Road Initiative.

Roy Yang, vice general manager from Beijing-based China Overseas Security Group, has been providing protection to Chinese nationals in Pakistan for more than three years.

He said China was not well equipped to handle the security threat associated with its overseas initiatives.

Some of the Chinese workers here are not aware of the security risks here, Yang said.

China has to build up a security network which involves both private and government efforts, and Chinese people need to learn more about security problems in foreign countries.

Story continues

The Chinese foreign ministry said that diplomats had to deal with more 86,000 cases last year in which citizens needed help from consular staff, an increase of 45 per cent compared with the previous year.

But in total it has just 6,500 diplomatic staff stationed overseas, which works out as one for every 190,000 citizens. By contrast the US has around one consular official for every 6,000 citizens, according to a study by Peking University academic Wang Yizhou.

The number of foreign ministry staff for consular protection is definitely not enough, Yang said.

A report by US think tank Rand released in March highlighted Chinas reliance on other countries to provide security for its citizens and businesses.

The Pakistani government has promised to deploy 10,000 soldiers to protect a port development that forms part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

It also relies heavily on private firms to supply security guards.

The Chinese government passed legislation authorising and regulating the establishment of commercial security firms in 2010, and there are now around 3,000 private security personnel working abroad.

But the report said Chinas security measures are lagging behind its massive overseas investment, and it has to be more alert to the level of risk in some of the countries in which it is expanding its presence.

Chinas current measures are inadequate. China relies heavily on security contractors, but these are unarmed. To protect its overseas interests effectively, China should seek a stronger PLA capable of diverse missions and tasks overseas, said Timothy Heath, senior international defence research analyst at US think tank Rand.

China can also expand joint security partnerships so that the Peoples Liberation Army and Peoples Armed Police forces can tackle threats with the cooperation and support of host nation governments.

One example of the risks faced came in February 2011 when the Chinese government had to charter planes and ships to evacuate thousands of workers from Libya after staff from the China National Petroleum Corporation and other businesses were attacked during the fighting that swept the country during the downfall of Muammar Gaddafi.

However, China is beginning to expand its capabilities, changing the law to authorise the military to send personnel abroad on counterterrorism missions and opening its first foreign base in Djibouti.

The navy also took part in anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden, deploying more than 16,000 sailors between December 2008 and early 2015.

It is also stepping up its cooperation with other countries in the fight against terrorism.

China is now helping Afghanistan to set up a mountain brigade in the countrys north to boost counterterrorism efforts.

It has also given Nigeria armed drones and intelligence to help fight Boko Haram and offered US$60 million to help build up the African Unions standby force.

Ling Shengli, an international relations expert from China Foreign Affairs University, said China could also dispatch police officers abroad to work with their foreign counterparts, highlighting the example of joint patrols that are conducted along the Mekong.

But Heath warned that Western countries might become concerned if China steps up its efforts to shape international law enforcement or cooperate more closely with other forces.

There is a risk that tensions could increase in certain areas, especially if Chinese-backed militaries attack or threaten the interests of the US and its allies, said Heath.

This article Pakistan attacks expose Chinas Achilles heel on international stage first appeared on South China Morning Post

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018.MALACANANG denied Monday, December 3, that President Rodrigo Duterte had a hand in the arrest warrant issued against journalist Maria Ressa for tax evasion.Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said

MALACANANG denied Monday, December 3, that President Rodrigo Duterte had a hand in the arrest warrant issued against journalist Maria Ressa for tax evasion.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Duterte is too busy to allow himself to dip his hands into the matter.

"He has too many obligations to fulfill. As we said, we can hardly cope up with this man. He's always working. We are amazed at how industrious he is," Panelo told reporters.

Ressa, chief executive officer and executive editor of Rappler, posted a P60,000 bail on Monday, December 3, after the Pasig Regional Trial Court Branch 265 issued a warrant for her arrest for violation of Section 255 of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997. The order was issued on November 28.

READ: Pasig City court's arrest warrant vs. Rappler's Maria Ressa due to tax charges | via Daniel Manalastas pic.twitter.com/wFZ5NTdZ4c

 People's Television (@PTVph) December 3, 2018

The Justice department earlier filed four separate tax evasion cases against Ressa and Rappler's holding firm before the Court of Appeals and another one before the Pasig City RTC Branch 265.

In a statement, Ressa slammed the "politically-motivated" charges against her to ensure her arrest.

"I surrendered to the court this morning, went through the process of what a criminal would go through, and filed bail without surrendering my right to question the Pasig court's jurisdiction over this tax case. This is a clear case of harassment," she said.

Panelo, however, denied that there was political persecution against Ressa on the part of the Duterte government.

He stressed that Ressa is entitled to legal remedies under the law, maintaining that the executive branch "never and will never" meddle in the judiciary's functions.

"How can they be persecuted? It's a question of tax evasion. You violate tax laws, and then you will be prosecuted. If you have a justifiable reason for so-doing or will introduce evidence to show that it's not true, then you will be acquitted," the Palace official said.

Story continues

"If the judiciary finds probable cause for an information filed, then we have to respect the law on the matter. Everyone is entitled to the presumption of innocence and that includes everybody, including Ms. Ressa," he added.

In his previous speeches, Duterte repeatedly slammed Rappler for allegedly peddling "fake" news about his administration.

Asked if the Palace fears the arrest will create a negative impact to the Duterte government, Panelo said No.

"The stand of Malacanang is always: You violate the law, you will have to account for it. And the Constitution also says every person charged with the crime is presumed innocent, unless proven otherwise by competent evidence beyond a reasonable doubt. That has been the policy and will always be the policy of the Duterte administration," he said.

The National Union of Journalists, in a statement on December 2, warned government that arresting Ressa will send a clear signal that the countrys democracy is fast receding under a feckless administration that cannot abide criticism and free expression and will go to ridiculous lengths to muzzle all those it does not agree with.

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On the possible arrest of Maria Ressa The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines warns government against...

Posted by National Union of Journalists of the Philippines on Sunday, December 2, 2018

International human rights watchdog Human Rights Watch (HRW) said this recent act of the Duterte administration against Ressa and Rappler is not a surprising behavior by the administration, but is nonetheless abominable.

Carlos Conde, HRW Philippines Researcher, said these acts are politically motivated and part of the governments strategy to harass, threaten and intimidate critics. (With VLA/SunStar Philippines)The UN's Yemen envoy visited rebel-held Sanaa on Monday as wounded insurgents were flown out of the capital for medical treatment, a key step towards bringing warring parties to the negotiating table in Sweden. A UN source said efforts were being made to reopen Sanaa International Airport, closed for the past three years because of the war between the Iran-aligned Huthis and the Yemeni government backed by a Saudi-led coalition. A UN-chartered flight left Sanaa with 50 wounded rebels on board and landed in Muscat, Oman's official ONA news agency reported. The transfer was "in support of the efforts of the UN to prepare the ground for the negotiations planned in Sweden", ONA said on Twitter. A UN source said the wounded had been evacuated in a "confidence-building measure" aimed at pushing ahead with negotiations between the Huthis and the Saudi-led coalition this month. Huthi spokesman Mohamed Abdalsalam tweeted the rebels' appreciation of UN envoy Martin Griffiths for his "humanitarian effort that treats a small part of the Yemeni suffering caused by the closure of the airport and blockade". Griffiths was "pleased to confirm" 50 injured Yemenis were to be treated on neutral ground in Muscat and "urged all Yemenis to work together in pursuit of peace and stability", according to the envoy's Twitter account. The evacuation marked a key step in kickstarting stalled negotiations as world powers press for an end to the devastating conflict that has pushed Yemen to the brink of famine. Saudi Arabia and its allies, who back Yemen's embattled President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, had agreed to allow for the 50 wounded combatants, 50 escorts and a team of Yemeni and UN doctors to be flown out to Muscat -- a condition set by the Huthis for negotiations. Kuwait's Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled al-Jarallah told reporters that a Huthi delegation was set to leave Sanaa for Stockholm on Tuesday morning together with his country's ambassador to Yemen. The oil-rich Gulf emirate, which has been a mediator in the devastating conflict, hosted Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom for talks in Kuwait City on Monday. - Talks to include airport - The fate of wounded rebels had been a stumbling block to the start of a previous round of aborted peace talks in Geneva in September. The rebels had said they would attend the talks in Sweden if they were guaranteed safe passage and the evacuations. Journalists were banned from Sanaa airport in the hours leading up to the departure of the UN evacuation flight. Wounded rebels were transported across the capital, controlled by the insurgents since 2014, in ambulances as they made their way to the long-defunct airport. The proposed UN-brokered peace talks have been backed by both the rebels and the government and were expected to take place in Sweden this week. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, however, has played down the early December schedule and said he hoped talks would start "this year". A UN source said the reopening of Sanaa airport was a priority at the next talks. A UN panel of experts this year said the "effective closure" of Sanaa airport since 2015, when the Saudi-led alliance intervened in the Yemen war, constituted a violation of international humanitarian law. - 'No excuses' - The opposing sides have cautiously reiterated their willingness to attend negotiations. Yemen's information minister, Moammer al-Eryani, said the government had agreed to the Sweden talks as a first step towards "facilitating negotiations" and to end "all excuses invoked by the coupists (rebels) to evade finding peace". Huthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said the rebels were ready to hold talks "starting with a ceasefire" by the rival coalition, at a press conference broadcast on the insurgents' Al-Masirah television. Iran also offered support on Monday, saying it was ready to cooperate with the international community to resolve the crisis. Previous talks planned for September in Geneva failed to get under way as the Huthi delegation never left Sanaa, saying the United Nations could not guarantee their safe return. Talks initially broke down in 2016, when 108 days of negotiations in Kuwait failed to yield a deal and left rebel delegates stranded in Oman for three months. UN aid chief Mark Lowcock warned last week that Yemen was "on the brink of a major catastrophe". His comments followed renewed deadly clashes between Huthi rebels and pro-government forces in the Red Sea port city of Hodeida, which is vital for the flow of humanitarian aid and controlled by the rebels. The coalition spokesman said military operations in Hodeida were "ongoing" on Monday. The UN has described Yemen as the world's worst humanitarian disaster, with at least 10,000 people killed since the coalition intervened. Rights groups fear the actual toll is far higher.Credit: ESA/Royal Observatory of Belgium

We've sent numerous missions into space to study the Sun; past and present solar explorers include ESA's Proba-2 (PRoject for OnBoard Autonomy 2) and SOHO (SOlar Heliospheric Observatory) probes, NASA's SDO and STEREO missions (the Solar Dynamics Observatory and Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory, respectively), and the joint NASA/ESA Ulysses mission. However, most of these spacecraft have focused mainly on the equatorial regions of the Sun, with the notable exception of Ulysses  this probe observed our star at a wide range of latitudes for nearly two decades, until the mission came to an end in 2009.

Despite Ulysses' insights, this focus on low solar latitudes has left the Sun's poles relatively unexplored. A lack of imaging data means that scientists must get creative in piecing together pictures of the Sun's polar regions  as seen here in this artificial image of the solar north pole.

This image extrapolates low-latitude Proba-2 observations of the Sun to reconstruct a view of the star's pole. While the poles cannot be seen directly, when spacecraft observe the solar atmosphere they gather data on everything along their line of sight, also viewing the atmosphere extending around the disc of the Sun (the apparent glow around the main disc of the Sun, which also extends over the poles). Scientists can use this to infer the appearance of the polar regions. In order to estimate the properties of the solar atmosphere over the poles, they continuously image the main disc of the Sun and take small slivers of data from the outer and upper regions of the star as it rotates, compensating for the fact that the Sun does not rotate at constant speeds at all latitudes. Over time, these small arrays of data can be combined to approximate a view of the pole, as shown in this view. More in-depth information on the process used to create this image can be found here.

Signs of this patchwork approach can be seen in this image, which comprises data from Proba-2's extreme-ultraviolet SWAP imager. The line across the middle is created due to small changes in the solar atmosphere that occurred over the timeframe of creating this image. This image also shows a bright bulge on the upper-right side of the Sun; this is created by a low-latitude coronal hole rotating around the solar disc. The polar coronal hole region, which can be seen as the dark patch in the centre of the solar disc, is a source of fast solar wind. It is seen here to contain a subtle network of light and dark structures, which may cause variations in solar wind speed.

While such views go a way towards revealing the secrets of the Sun's poles  such as how waves propagate across our star, and how it may create phenomena such as coronal holes and ejections that go on to influence space weather around the Earth  direct observations of these regions are needed in order to build on past data gathered by Ulysses. ESA's Solar Orbiter aims to plug this knowledge gap when it launches in 2020. This mission will study the Sun in detail from latitudes high enough to explore its polar regions, also revealing how its magnetic field and particle emissions impact its cosmic environment  including the area of space that we call home.

Explore further Image: Coronal holesRussia's Soyuz rocket successfully launched into orbit

A Soyuz rocket carrying Russian, American and Canadian astronauts took off from Kazakhstan and reached orbit on Monday, the first manned mission since a failed launch in October.

Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, Anne McClain of NASA and David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency blasted off for a six-and-a-half month mission on the International Space Station on schedule at 1131 GMT.

A few minutes after their rocket lifted off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, Russian space agency Roscomos announced that the capsule was "successfully launched into orbit".

NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine confirmed on Twitter that the crew were "safely in orbit" and thanked the US and Russian teams "for their dedication to making this launch a success".

The journey to the orbital lab takes six hours, with docking expected at 1736 GMT.

It was the first manned launch for the Soviet-era Soyuz since October 11, when a rocket carrying Russia's Aleksey Ovchinin and US astronaut Nick Hague failed just minutes after blast-off, forcing the pair to make a harrowing emergency landing.

They escaped unharmed but the failed launchthe first such incident in Russia's post-Soviet historyraised concerns about the state of the Soyuz programme.

Anne McClain, Oleg Kononenko, and David Saint-Jacques say risk is just part of their job

The Soyuz is the only means of reaching the ISS since the United States retired the space shuttle in 2011.

Kononenko, McClain and Saint-Jacques smiled and gave thumbs up to the cheering crowd including relatives as they ascended into the Soyuz capsule.

At a press conference on the eve of the launch, crew commander Kononenko said the astronauts "absolutely" trusted teams preparing for the flight.

Risk 'part of our profession'

"Risk is part of our profession," the 54-year-old said. "We are psychologically and technically prepared for blast-off and any situation which, God forbid, may occur on board."

McClain, a 39-year-old former military pilot, said the crew looked forward to going up.

"We feel very ready for it," she said.

A Soyuz rocket failed just minutes after blast-off in October

Saint-Jacques, 48, described the Soyuz spacecraft as "incredibly safe".

October's accident had highlighted the "smart design of the Soyuz and the incredible work that the search and rescue people here on the ground are ready to do every launch," he said.

In a successful rehearsal for Monday's flight, a Soyuz cargo vessel took off on November 16 from Baikonur and delivered several tonnes of food, fuel and supplies to the ISS.

Russia said last month the October launch had failed because of a sensor damaged during assembly at the Baikonur cosmodrome, but insisted the spacecraft remained reliable.

While flight commander Kononenko is beginning his fourth mission to add to an impressive 533 days in space, both Saint-Jacques and McClain are flying for the first time.

European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst, NASA's Serena Aunon-Chancellor and Sergei Prokopyev of Roscosmos will greet the trio when they arrive at the ISS.

Veteran Kononenko said the crew would conduct a spacewalk on December 11 as part of an investigation into a mysterious hole that has caused an air leak on the ISS.

The astronauts are heading for a six-and-a-half month mission on the International Space Station

Saint-Jacques will be the first Canadian astronaut to visit the space station since Chris Hadfield, who recorded a version of David Bowie's "Space Oddity" on board in 2013.

While on board, Saint-Jacques will be taking part in a Canadian experiment called "At Home in Space" which "takes a closer look at how crew members adapt to living with each other by creating a shared culture," according to the Canadian Space Agency.

Among the dozens of other experiments the new crew members will be involved in is one led by British scientists that will use worms to examine muscle loss in space.

The experiment could pave the way to new treatments for muscular conditions for people on Earth, according to the UK Space Agency.

'Spacewalking like rugby'

McClain served in Iraq and has represented the United States in women's rugby.

She has said that training to spacewalk resembled the sport since it demands "grit, toughness, mental focus, and more".

The launch comes after a failed mission on October 11

Russia-US cooperation in space has remained one of the few areas not affected by a crisis in ties between the former Cold War enemies.

But comments by the combative chief of the Russian space agency, Dmitry Rogozin, have raised eyebrows.

He recently joked Russia would send a mission to the Moon to "verify" whether or not NASA lunar landings ever took place.

In recent years Russia's debt-laden space industry has suffered a number of mishaps including the loss of cargo spacecraft and satellites.

Explore further Russia stages first Soyuz launch since accident

 2018 AFPThe Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut leg Kononenko and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

Three astronauts who were launched into space aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft Monday entered the International Space Station nearly eight hours later, a relief to relatives and scientists months after a rocket failure aborted another mission.

The hatch of the capsule carrying NASA astronaut Anne McClain, David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency and Oleg Kononenko of Russian space agency Roscosmos was opened while the station was flying over the southern coast of Yemen.

The three were greeted upon arrival Monday by the station's current crew members, who had waited outside the hatch after the astronauts' capsule docked and underwent safety checks.

Their Soyuz MS-11 spacecraft launched from the Russian-leased Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on Monday at 5:31 p.m. (1131 GMT; 6:31 a.m. EST) then entered a designated orbit just under nine minutes later. The spacecraft made four orbits over six hours as it chased down the space station for the docking.

The astronauts were the first sent to be sent to the space station since a crewed Soyuz launch was aborted in October after a booster rocket failed to separate properly, crippling the rocket. The families of the crew, other astronauts and space officials from several nations breathed a sigh of relief after observing the flawless launch.

The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

NASA and Roscosmos said all onboard systems operated normally and the astronauts felt fine during the six-hour trip the space station. After two hours waiting in their capsule to confirm their ship was firmly docked to the station, they exited the capsule to join three astronauts already aboard the orbiting outpost at 1:37 a.m. (1940 GMT; 2:40 p.m. EST.)

The station's current crew of NASA's Serena Aunon-Chancellor, Russian Sergei Prokopyev and German Alexander Gerst were waiting to greet the newcomers. They are scheduled to return to Earth on Dec. 20.

McClain, Saint-Jacques and Kononenko will spend more than six months at the space station doing research and experiments in biology, Earth science, physical sciences and technology.

U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, centre, Russian cosmonaut leg Kononenko and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques, top, crew members of the mission to the International Space Station, ISS, wave as they board to the rocket prior to the launch of Soyuz-FG rocket at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Shamil Zhumatov, Pool)

A Soyuz-FG rocket carrying NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos' Alexei Ovchinin failed two minutes into its flight on Oct. 11, activating an automatic rescue system that sent their capsule into a steep ride back to Earth. They managed to emerge safely despite the harrowing ordeal.

A Russian investigation attributed the failure to a sensor that was damaged during the rocket's final assembly.

NASA announced Monday that Hague and Ovchinin will now launch to the space station on Feb. 28, along with NASA astronaut Christina Hammock Koch.

The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut leg Kononenko and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

The Soyuz accident in October was the first aborted crew launch for the Russian space program since 1983, when two Soviet cosmonauts safely jettisoned after a launch pad explosion.

Russian space officials took measures to prevent the repeat of such a rocket failure. Since the October mishap, four successful unmanned Soyuz satellite launches have been conducted to clear the path for the crew's launch on Monday.

After Monday's successful launch, NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine tweeted his thanks to his Russian counterpart Dmitry Rogozin and to NASA and Roscosmos space teams "for their dedication to making this launch a success."

The Soyuz spacecraft is currently the only vehicle that can ferry crews to the space station, but Russia stands to lose that monopoly in the coming years with the arrival of SpaceX's Dragon and Boeing's Starliner crew capsules.

The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut leg Kononenko and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, left, Russian cosmonaut leg Kononenko, centre, and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques, members of the main crew of the expedition to the International Space Station (ISS), report to members of the State Committee prior to the launch of Soyuz MS-11 space ship at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky, Pool)

U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, member of the main crew of the expedition to the International Space Station (ISS), speaks with her relatives through a safety glass prior to the launch of Soyuz MS-11 space ship at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky, Pool)

Russian Space Agency experts help CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques, member of the main crew of the expedition to the International Space Station (ISS), during the inspection of his space suit prior the launch of Soyuz MS-11 space ship at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques, member of the main crew to the International Space Station (ISS), interacts with his children from a bus prior to the launch of Soyuz-FG rocket at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky, Pool)

U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, member of the main crew of the expedition to the International Space Station (ISS), gestures prior to the launch of Soyuz MS-11 space ship at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques, member of the main crew of the expedition to the International Space Station (ISS), during an inspection of his space suit prior to the launch of Soyuz MS-11 space ship at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques, member of the main crew to the International Space Station (ISS), interacts with his children from a bus prior to the launch of Soyuz-FG rocket at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky, Pool)

CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques, member of the main crew of the expedition to the International Space Station (ISS), speaks with his relatives through a safety glass prior to the launch of Soyuz MS-11 space ship at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky, Pool)

U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, crew member of the mission to the International Space Station, ISS, waves as she boards to the rocket prior to the launch of Soyuz-FG rocket at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Shamil Zhumatov, Pool)

U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, member of the main crew to the International Space Station (ISS), interacts with her family from a bus prior to the launch of Soyuz-FG rocket at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky, Pool)

U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, crew member of the mission to the International Space Station, ISS, waves as she boards to the rocket prior to the launch of Soyuz-FG rocket at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Shamil Zhumatov, Pool)

U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, left, Russian cosmonaut leg Kononenko, centre, and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques, members of the main crew of the expedition to the International Space Station (ISS), report to head or Russian space agency Dmitry Rogozin prior to the launch of Soyuz MS-11 space ship at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky, Pool)

CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques, crew members of the mission to the International Space Station, ISS, walks to the rocket prior to the launch of Soyuz-FG rocket at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Shamil Zhumatov, Pool)

The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, flies in the sky at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

In this photo provided by NASA the Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, launches from at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (Aubrey Gemignani/NASA via AP)

A police APC drives prior to the launch of Soyuz MS-11 space ship with U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut leg Kononenko and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques, members of the mission to the International Space Station at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut leg Kononenko and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut leg Kononenko and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

Expedition 58 Flight Engineer David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), top, Flight Engineer Anne McClain of NASA, center, and Soyuz Commander Oleg Kononenko of Roscosmos, bottom, wave farewell prior to boarding the Soyuz MS-11 spacecraft for launch, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018 in Baikonur, Kazakhstan. Kononenko. McClain, and Saint-Jacques will spend the next six and a half months onboard the International Space Station. (Aubrey Gemignani/NASA via AP)

Explore further Three astronauts blast off to International Space Station

 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Almost 90 years ago on a freezing January morning, the keepers of the Stockholm Zoo in Sweden discovered a dead seal pup in their seal pond. The pup was immediately recognized as a bastarda hybrid between species that should not interbreed. Only two grey seal males and one ringed seal female, species belonging to different mammalian genera, were housed in the pond. The hybrid appeared to carry a mixture of features of both the parent species.

The researchers in the University of Helsinki and their international colleagues have located the preserved hybrid in the museum collections, and confirmed genetically that the skull specimen is the hybrid between the grey and ringed seal.

They also examined new genomic data from wild Baltic Sea grey and ringed seals. By comparing these genomic sequences with that of the Saimaa ringed seal, it was possible to examine whether the grey and the ringed seals could have interbred also in the wild. As is the case between many mammalian species, including early humans, the analyses revealed genetic traces of hybridization between the seal species in the Baltic.

"The shape of the skull, and especially the teeth of grey and ringed seals are so different that they could be classified as belonging to different families if discovered as fossils. Yet, the seal hybrid was found to be an almost perfect intermediate between the species with no detectable anomalies. When placed into the context of other hybridizing mammals, the grey and ringed seals provide the extreme bracket of shape difference found between hybridizing species pairs," says Academy Professor Jukka Jernvall from the Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki.

Compared to Neanderthals and modern humans, grey and ringed seals are genetically and dentally at least twice as different, suggesting that there may be more fossil human hybrids to be discovered. The analyses also revealed that landlocked species, such as the Saimaa ringed seals found only in Lake Saimaa, can be genetically quite distinct as they have had no mates other than their own kin.

Explore further Decrease of genetic diversity in the endangered Saimaa ringed seal continues

More information: Yoland Savriama et al, Bracketing phenogenotypic limits of mammalian hybridization, Royal Society Open Science (2018). Journal information: Royal Society Open Science Yoland Savriama et al, Bracketing phenogenotypic limits of mammalian hybridization,(2018). DOI: 10.1098/rsos.180903A scan showing nanoplastic particles accumulated within the scallop's gills (GI), kidney (K), gonad (GO), intestine (I), hepatopancreas (HP) and muscle (M). Credit: University of Plymouth

A ground-breaking study has shown it takes a matter of hours for billions of minute plastic nanoparticles to become embedded throughout the major organs of a marine organism.

The research, led by the University of Plymouth, examined the uptake of nanoparticles by a commercially important mollusc, the great scallop (Pecten maximus).

After six hours exposure in the laboratory, billions of particles measuring 250nm (around 0.00025mm) had accumulated within the scallop's intestines.

However, considerably more even smaller particles measuring 20nm (0.00002mm) had become dispersed throughout the body including the kidney, gill, muscle and other organs.

The study is the first to quantify the uptake of nanoparticles at predicted environmentally relevant conditions, with previous research having been conducted at far higher concentrations than scientists believe are found in our oceans.

Dr. Maya Al Sid Cheikh, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Plymouth, led the study. She said: "For this experiment, we needed to develop an entirely novel scientific approach. We made nanoparticles of plastic in our laboratories and incorporated a label so that we could trace the particles in the body of the scallop at environmentally relevant concentrations. The results of the study show for the first time that nanoparticles can be rapidly taken up by a marine organism, and that in just a few hours they become distributed across most of the major organs."

Some of the scallops used as part of the current research. Credit: University of Plymouth

Professor Richard Thompson OBE, Head of the University's International Marine Litter Research Unit, added: "This is a ground breaking study, in terms of both the scientific approach and the findings. We only exposed the scallops to nanoparticles for a few hours and, despite them being transferred to clean conditions, traces were still present several weeks later. Understanding the dynamics of nanoparticle uptake and release, as well as their distribution in body tissues, is essential if we are to understand any potential effects on organisms. A key next step will be to use this approach to guide research investigating any potential effects of nanoparticles and in particular to consider the consequences of longer term exposures."

Accepted for publication in the Environmental Science and Technology journal, the study also involved scientists from the Charles River Laboratories in Elphinstone, Scotland; the Institute Maurice la Montagne in Canada; and Heriot-Watt University.

It was conducted as part of RealRiskNano, a 1.1million project funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). Led by Heriot-Watt and Plymouth, it is exploring the effects which microscopic plastic particles can have on the marine environment.

In this study, the scallops were exposed to quantities of carbon-radiolabeled nanopolystyrene and after six hours, autoradiography was used to show the number of particles present in organs and tissue.

It was also used to demonstrate that the 20nm particles were no longer detectable after 14 days, whereas 250nm particles took 48 days to disappear.

Ted Henry, Professor of Environmental Toxicology at Heriot-Watt University, said: "Understanding whether plastic particles are absorbed across biological membranes and accumulate within internal organs is critical for assessing the risk these particles pose to both organism and human health. The novel use of radiolabelled plastic particles pioneered in Plymouth provides the most compelling evidence to date on the level of absorption of plastic particles in a marine organism."

Explore further Is there a real risk from nanoparticles of plastic in the environment?Compiling images from real American politicians with the help of the Victoria Police Criminal Identification Unit, the authors built six ideal candidates to test how attractiveness shifts votes. Credit: Rodrigo Praino, Daniel Stockemer/Social Science Quarterly, Author provided

If someone asks you why you chose the election candidate you voted for, you will likely have a good answer. Maybe you agree with the candidate's policy stances. Maybe you support his/her party. Maybe you are tired of the corruption, bad policies, or inaction of the people in power. These are all perfectly acceptable answers. One reason you probably will not mention is that you voted for this person because he or she is good-looking. Certainly not. This is not an acceptable answer.

Yet you probably did.

In a study just published by myself and Daniel Stockemer with the help of Victoria Police in Melbourne, we used data on elections to the US Congress to create the faces of six fictional candidates who were "ideal-looking" in terms of physical appearance. We then used statistical modelling and real election results to simulate what would have happened if the loser of some key races looked like one of our "ideal candidates", but was otherwise identical to the real losing candidate.

In two-thirds of cases, the loser becomes a winner if he/she simply becomes better-looking. To put it simply, we find that if an election is competitive, candidate attractiveness can actually determine the result.

Research shows that candidate appearance travels across cultures, ignoring even racial and ethnic differences. It appears that there is a fairly standard idea around the world of what is an attractive candidate, and voters everywhere prefer good-looking politicians. Research has shown that beautiful politicians are advantaged in Australia, Germany, Finland, the United Kingdom and the United States.

But the story doesn't end there. Scholars are still trying to understand all possible ramifications of the relationship between physical attractiveness and electoral success. But we know that ideology, institutions and voter behaviour all play a role in this fascinating relationship.

When it comes to ideology, recent research shows that conservative politicians benefit more from physical attractiveness. In other words, right-wing politicians are better-looking than left-wing politicians and, therefore, benefit more from the "beauty premium" at the ballot box.

In terms of institutions, a study published by Daniel Stockemer and myself last year shows that the electoral system plays a role in whether or not candidate attractiveness matters in elections.

In brief, candidate attractiveness matters in majoritarian electoral systems  that is, systems where voters cast their vote for a specific candidate. The impact of candidate attractiveness fades in list-based proportional systems, where voters are asked to cast a ballot for a political party.

We find no evidence that attractive candidates are placed higher in party lists, which means that political parties and their structures appear to be immune to the appeal of candidate attractiveness. The conclusion is that institutions play an important role in determining whether or not candidate attractiveness affects voters' decision-making.

Finally, when it comes to voter behaviour, the "beauty premium" doesn't manifest itself only as extra votes gained at the ballot box. In a study published last May, we found that attractive politicians get a "break" when they are involved in scandals. In particular, voters forgive attractive politicians involved in sex scandals, while politicians involved in financial scandals such as bribery or misappropriation of funds have a harder time at the ballot box after the scandal becomes public. Either way, this shows that voters not only generally vote for the most attractive candidate, but also are more willing to forgive those who look better.

So how about Donald Trump? This question pops up a lot, especially from people arguing that Trump is not the most physically attractive candidate to run for office. If we think hard enough, we can all think of numerous unattractive politicians who have been very successful at the ballot box all over the world. The key to understanding how this works is to focus on information.

A few years ago, we ran an experiment using thousands of Canadian students at the University of Ottawa as research subjects. We found that if voters have adequate information about the candidates running for office, they tend to cast their ballot based on this information.

If, on the other hand, voters possess little or no information, then the better-looking candidate wins the election. We concluded that, in high-information elections, candidate attractiveness plays a smaller role than in low-information elections. This answers the Donald Trump question, in the sense that American presidential elections are high-information contests and, therefore, voters know more things about the candidates than their physical appearance, and thus vote accordingly.

The problem is that research also shows that voters all over the world have become less and less informed about politics. For instance, Australians seem to be incapable of answering basic questions about Australian politics; American university graduates in the 2000s knew less about politics than high school graduates in the 1950s; and European citizens do worse than chance in answering true-or-false questions about the European Union.

In other words, we should expect that candidate attractiveness will determine more and more electoral outcomes in the near future. Of course, the major issue with people voting for good-looking candidates is that physical appearance is completely devoid of any policy content. Voters have no guarantee whatsoever that they will end up with policies that they agree with and support if they vote for someone just because that person is attractive.

After years engaged in this line of research, I have never met someone who confessed to having voted for someone else because he/she was good-looking. At the same time, I am also convinced that people do exactly that, even if unconsciously.

The only solution to this problem is to educate voters about politics, institutions and current issues.

Explore further More women running for political office may hurt chances for down-ballot candidates

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.The strain of influenza virus H3M2 strain. This 3D illustration shows surface glycoprotein spikes hemagglutinin (orange) and neuraminidase (green). Credit: Shutterstock

Scientists have known for decades that a flu virus in a human body can be a lot different than viruses grown in a lab. As opposed to the uniform, spherical, textbook-style viruses in a petri dish, in humans they vary in shape and compositionparticularly the abundance of certain proteinseven if they are genetically very similar.

It has been difficult to study the exact number and location of these proteins on any individual virus, however. The go-to method in cell biology would involve attaching a fluorescent protein to the area of interest; the light makes the area easier to image and study.

But trying to attach fluorescent proteins to the molecules that make up a flu virus is like trying to get a third person on a tandem bike: There just isn't room. The fluorescent proteins are about the same size as the flu proteins; introducing such a relatively large element throws the virus out of whack.

A paper by Michael Vahey, assistant professor in the School of Engineering & Applied Science at Washington University in St. Louis and Daniel A. Fletcher, Purnendu Chatterjee Chair in Engineering Biological Systems and Chair of Bioengineering at the University of California, Berkeley, demonstrates that flu proteins can be tagged using a different method. The process has already yielded information that hints to one advantage at minimum for having so many flu phenotypes, that is, various shapes and configurations found in genetically identical flu particles.

The paper was published November 9 in the journal Cell.

"Under what circumstances is it adaptive, and how so?" Vahey asked. "This is a first step toward understanding that. But it's not a complete picture."

In order to move past the labeling difficulties, Vahey adapted a method that is typically used to label a specific area on a protein called, appropriately, "site-specific labeling." Instead of using a fluorescent protein, he inserted sequences five- to 10-amino-acids-long into the proteins that make up Influenza A virus. This is the most common flu virus, and also the most dangerous to humans.

After inserting these short sequences, he introduced enzymes and small amounts of fluorescent dyes. These enzymes take different dye molecules and connect them to the engineered viral proteins, giving researchers the ability to see individual proteins without disrupting how theyor the virus they make upfunctions.

Of particular interest to researchers are the proteins hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). HA is responsible for allowing a flu virus to attach to a cell and NA is responsible for decoupling the virus from the cell so that it can go on to infect others. (This is where designations such as H1N1 or H3N2 come from; the surface of the virus has different types of HA and NA that are referred to by specific numbers, or subtypes).

"Once we have the ability to label individual viruses, we can image them and quantify how much of each protein they have per particle, and what the size of that particle is," Vahey said.

Utilizing site-specific labeling overcomes a longstanding challenge in the study of flu viruses. Now that they could take a more detailed look, Vahey and Fletcher decided to do just that, setting up an experiment that might help them understand whether or not the variation seen in individual flu viruses might be adaptive, helping the virus to spread infection.

The researchers studied individual flu viruses released from cells, some of which were treated with a substance that blocks NA from doing its job, releasing the virus from a cell. (This is how the antiviral drug Tamiflu works. If the virus cannot release itself from the cell, it cannot spread and reproduce).

Then they compared the virus particles that were able to detach from the untreated cells to those that were able to detach from the cells treated with the NA inhibitor.

Hooking up: One way the flu may species-hop

You've heard of avian flu and swine flu. That's because Influenza is zoonotic, it can be transferred from one animal to another. The heterogeneous nature of the virus may help it do this.

"Typically the receptor that the virus binds to in not identical in, say a bird and a human," said Michael Vahey, assistant professor in the School of Engineering & Applied Science but flu virus binds to receptors almost like Velcro. "There are many different hooks, the more you have, the harder it is to peel it off." In the case of Influenza, the "hooks" are hemagglutinin, (HA).

It's possible that a variant animal flu virus with a high number of HA can successfully attach to a human cell, creating new ways to make humans miserable with the flu.

"What we found is that viruses that are smaller, or have more NA, are more resistant to the NA inhibitor," Vahey said. "They were more likely to be able to detach from a cell that has been challenged with Tamiflu." They could then go on to infect more cells.

The results suggest that these two variationsbeing smaller than average, or having more NAcould be beneficial for a virus that found itself in a person who had been treated with Tamiflu. It's one example of how having lots of diversity among individual viruses might be advantageous.

On the other hand, viruses with more HA, or that are larger, can bind more strongly to cells. "Under any particular circumstance, it might be beneficial to be anywhere within that range," Vahey said. "In the case of Tamiflu treatment, you're inhibiting NA such that the viruses that happen to have more NA and also happen to be smaller now have a little bit of a leg up."

More broadly, Vahey said, "If you have an environment that is changing rapidly over time, if you were reliant on genetic adaptations, you might be in some trouble, because it takes a certain amount of time for mutations to accumulate." But phenotypic diversity generates changes relatively quickly. Each time a virus replicates, the next generation displays a host of variation, some of which might be suited to the environment where it finds itself.

Down the line, the importance of phenotype may have implications for the development of new flu vaccines. "Typically in the development of a flu vaccine, you're concerned about how genetic changes in the virus may reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine," Vahey said. "This could be an additional consideration, how variation in viral phenotype may contribute."

The School of Engineering & Applied Science at Washington University in St. Louis focuses intellectual efforts through a new convergence paradigm and builds on strengths, particularly as applied to medicine and health, energy and environment, entrepreneurship and security. With 94 tenured/tenure-track and 28 additional full-time faculty, 1,300 undergraduate students, 1,200 graduate students and 20,000 alumni, we are working to leverage our partnerships with academic and industry partnersacross disciplines and across the worldto contribute to solving the greatest global challenges of the 21st century.

Explore further Researchers identify structural changes that occur in enveloped viruses before invading host

More information: Michael D. Vahey et al, Low-Fidelity Assembly of Influenza A Virus Promotes Escape from Host Cells, Cell (2018). Journal information: Cell Michael D. Vahey et al, Low-Fidelity Assembly of Influenza A Virus Promotes Escape from Host Cells,(2018). DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2018.10.056Artists conception of the progenitor system of a Type Ia supernova. A white dwarf (tiny dot in the center of the disk at right) steals matter from a companion star (left). When it steals too much matter, the white dwarf explodes. This supernova explosion runs into the companion star, causing an increase in brightness for a few days. Credit: NASA

Astronomers at Las Cumbres Observatory (LCO) are part of an international team of scientists who used NASA's Kepler satellite to catch a rare glimpse of a Type Ia supernova minutes after explosion. The supernova, named SN 2018oh, was brighter than expected over the first few days. The increased brightness is an indication that it slammed into a nearby companion star. This adds to the growing body of evidence that some, but not all, of these thermonuclear supernovae have a large companion star that triggers the explosion.

Las Cumbres Observatory (LCO), based in Goleta, California, is a global network of 21 robotic telescopes that obtained some of the best data characterizing the supernova in support of the NASA mission. Wenxiong Li, the lead author of one of three papers published today on the finding, was based at LCO when much of the research was underway. Five other LCO astronomers, who are affiliated with the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB), also contributed to two of the papers.

Understanding the origins of Type Ia supernovae is critical because they are used as standard candles to map out distances in cosmology. They were used to discover Dark Energy, the mysterious force causing the universe to accelerate in its expansion. Astronomers have long known that a supernova is the explosion of a dense white dwarf star (A white dwarf has the mass of the sun, but only the radius of the Earth; one teaspoon of a white dwarf would weigh roughly 23000 pounds) What triggers the explosion is less well understood. One theory holds that the explosions are the merger of two white dwarf stars. Another is that the second star is not a white dwarf at all, but a normal-sized or even giant star that loses only some of its matter to the white dwarf to initiate the explosion. In this theory, the explosion then smashes into the surviving second star, causing the supernova to be exceedingly bright in its early hours.

Testing the theory was deemed so important to NASA that some of the last few months of the life of the Kepler satellite were dedicated to looking for this phenomenon. Kepler's ability to take data over large regions of the sky every few minutes was unique and it allowed scientists to observe this type of supernova at the earliest moments in the explosionthe earliest ever seen.

When the Kepler satellite observed a supernova, it needed support from other instruments. Because the satellite measures just the brightness of light and only sees in black and white, astronomers also used ground-based telescopes to watch the explosion in color and to obtain spectroscopy to reveal its chemical signatures. Regular ground-based telescopes do not have the massive field of view of Kepler and are restricted by the rotation of the Earthobservations are limited to local nighttime. Las Cumbres Observatory, with its network of telescopes all over the Earth, always has telescopes ready in the dark. The LCO network, like Kepler, can stare at the same spot for 24 hours and more.

"Kepler and Las Cumbres Observatory's capabilities are so complementary, I've been dreaming about using them together to address the origins of Type Ia supernovae for years. It is amazing to see it finally happen," said Andy Howell, who is head of the supernova group at LCO, a member of the faculty at UCSB, and a coauthor on two of the papers.

imulation of a supernova explosion (brown) hitting a companion star. This causes some of the supernova ejecta to glow blue, and creates a hole in the ejecta. The result is a bump in brightness of the supernova soon after explosion. Credit: Dan Kasen (Berkely/LBNL)

The Kepler satellite normally points backwards in its orbit, away from Earth. NASA decided that this was necessary both to shield the satellite's optics from debris and to avoid the glare of Earth overwhelming the sensitive detectors. Targets seen in this direction from Kepler are not visible from the ground-based telescopes for very long. With Kepler nearing the end of its life, NASA decided to take the risk of pointing the telescope forward in its orbit. This allowed LCO to simultaneously take data while Kepler was observing the supernova.

Howell added, "It really speaks to their spirit of discovery at NASA that they took a risk in the name of science with Kepler. It paid off."

This is not the first time that distortions in the early light of thermonuclear supernovae have been seen. Similar effects were observed in supernovae in 2012, 2014, and 2017. Las Cumbres Observatory was the only facility to have played a role in all of these studies [see the story here]. The interpretation of the results has not always been straightforward. The event in 2012 had sparse data. The one in 2014 was a very unusual supernova. The one from 2017 failed to match other theoretical predictions associated with a supernova having a large companion star. Even the new supernova is not without controversysome scientists on the large international team think other explanations can account for the strange early behavior of the supernova.

"This was so exciting because it was a rare case that as observers we got to go look for something that had been predicted from computer simulations," said Curtis McCully who is a scientist at LCO and a coauthor on two of the papers.

Further observations of SN 2018oh and other supernovae like it may settle the controversy over its strange behavior in the early days just after its explosion. While NASA's Kepler is out of gas, Las Cumbres Observatory is just getting started.

McCully added, "With new technology like the LCO network of robotic telescopes and Kepler spacecraft, we have moved out of the era of still photographs to motion pictures of the universe: it's such an exciting time to be in astronomy as we search for what really goes bump in the night."

Explore further Study witnesses first moments of star dying in finest detail

More information: K2 Observations of SN 2018oh Reveal a Two-Component Rising Light Curve for a Type Ia Supernova. arXiv:1811.10061 [astro-ph.HE] K2 Observations of SN 2018oh Reveal a Two-Component Rising Light Curve for a Type Ia Supernova. arXiv:1811.10061 [astro-ph.HE] arxiv.org/abs/1811.10061This map shows the predicted levels of risk to more than 150,000 species of plants located worldwide. Using vast amounts of open-access data, the researchers trained a machine learning algorithm to assign a probability that a given species would qualify for at-risk designation on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature's Red List of Threatened Species. Warmer colors denote areas with larger numbers of potentially at-risk species, while cooler colors denote areas with low overall predicted risk. Credit: Anahi Espindola and Tara Pelletier

The International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species is a powerful tool for researchers and policymakers working to stem the tide of species loss across the globe. But adding even a single species to the list is no small task, demanding countless hours of expensive, rigorous and highly specialized research.

As a result of these limitations, a large number of known species have not yet been formally assessed by the IUCN and ranked in one of five categories, from least concern to critically endangered. This deficit is quite apparent in plants: Only about 5 percent of all currently known plant species appear on IUCN's Red List in any capacity.

A new method co-developed by Anahi Espindola, an assistant professor of entomology at the University of Maryland, uses the power of machine learning and open-access data to predict species that could be eligible for at-risk status on the IUCN Red List. The research team created and trained a machine learning algorithm to assess more than 150,000 species of plants from all corners of the world, making their project among the largest assessments of conservation risk to date. According to the results, more than 10 percent of these species are highly likely to qualify for an at-risk IUCN classification.

The algorithm is a predictive model that can be applied to any grouping of species at any scale, from the entire globe to a single city park. Espindola and her colleagues published their findings online in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on December 3, 2018.

"Our method isn't meant to replace formal assessments using IUCN protocols. It's a tool that can help prioritize the process, by calculating the probability that a given species is at risk," Espindola said. "Ultimately, we hope it will help governments and resource managers decide where to devote their limited resources for conservation. This could be especially useful in regions that are understudied."

Espindola and her collaborators built their predictive model using open-access data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and the TRY Plant Trait Database. Lead author Tara Pelletier, an assistant professor of biology at Radford University, worked together with Espindola to perform the machine learning analysis.

Espindola and Pelletier then trained the model using GBIF and TRY data from the relatively small group of plant species already on the IUCN Red List. This allowed the researchers to assess and fine-tune the model's accuracy by checking its predictions against the listed species' known IUCN risk status. The Red List sorts non-extinct species into one of five classification categories: least concern, near-threatened, vulnerable, endangered and critically endangered.

The researchers then applied the model to the many thousands of plant species that remain unlisted by IUCN. According to the results, more than 15,000 of the speciesroughly 10 percent of the total assessed by the teamhave a high probability of qualifying as near-threatened, at a minimum.

Espindola and her colleagues mapped the data and noted several major geographical trends in the model's predictions. At-risk species tended to cluster in areas already known for their high native biodiversity, such as the Central American rainforests and southwestern Australia. The model also flagged regions such as California and the southeastern United States, which are home to a large number of endemic species, meaning that these species do not naturally occur anywhere else on Earth.

"When I first started thinking about this project, I suspected that many regions with high diversity would be well-studied and protected. But we found the opposite to be true," Espindola said. "Many of the high-diversity areas corresponded to regions with the highest probability of risk. When we saw the maps, we were surprised it was that clear. Endemic species also tend to be more at risk because they are usually confined to smaller areas."

The model also flagged a few surprising areas not typically known for their biodiversity, such as the southern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, as having a high number of at-risk species. Some of the most imperiled regions have not received enough attention from researchers, according to Espindola. She hopes that her method can help to fill in some of these knowledge gaps by identifying regions and species in need of further study.

"Let's say you wanted to assess every species of wild bee on one continent. So you do the assessment and find that only one species is at risk. Now you've used all those resources to identify an area with low risk, which is still helpful, but not ideal when resources are limited. We want to help prevent that from happening," Espindola said. "Our analysis was global, but the model can be adapted for use at any geographic scale. Everything we've done is 100 percent open access, highlighting the power of publicly-available data. We hope people will use our modeland we hope they point out errors and help us fix them, to make it better."

The research paper, "Predicting plant conservation priorities on a global scale," Tara Pelletier, Bryan Carstens, David Tank, Jack Sullivan and Anahi Espindola, was published online in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on December 3, 2018.

Explore further Fin whale, mountain gorilla populations rise amid conservation actionIndia has developed a pioneering national agroforestry policy. Credit: Suleman Merchant/Shutterstock

It's now over 50 years since the world was first warned that resources were being used at an unsustainable rate. It has now been estimated that almost one quarter to one third of the world's land is degraded to some extent.

Degradation refers to land that's lost nutrients, or has changed physically, and therefore produces less or supports less life. This is mostly caused by the loss of soil, changes in the quality of the soil, or changes to land cover  like trees being cut down.

About 20% of agricultural land and 40% of forests are degraded. Degradation reduces our capacity to feed a world population that will reach at least 9 billion people by 2050 and it destroys ecosystem services  like the supply of clean water. Also when soil is degraded and trees destroyed, the carbon they contain is released into the atmosphere. Having high levels of carbon in the atmosphere is a major cause of climate change.

Because a great deal of land has been changed to produce food, agroforestry, the practice of deliberately introducing trees into farms, is an important way to restore degraded land. These trees, outside of forests, have tremendous commercial and ecological value.

Because of this, agroforestry is increasingly being recognised as a key practice, supporting nine out of the 17 sustainable development goals  the global action to end poverty and protect the planet.

Unfortunately policymakers have not yet caught up. Very few agricultural policies around the world promote agroforestry and few agricultural universities and training institutes include it in their syllabuses.

This needs to change if agroforestry is going to be widely adopted across all farms to meet local and global challenges of food production, environmental protection and the alleviation of climate change.

Protecting trees and soil

Trees are vital to a healthy and balanced environment as they store carbon  trees hold three quarters of the carbon found in agricultural land  which affects climate change, and protect soil. Soil supports the growth of plants, also stores carbon and is key for nearly all agricultural production.

The international community has recognised this and is in a battle to restore degraded forests. Countries have pledged to restore about 170 million hectares of land worldwide.

These are massive commitments and the question is where the efforts can be placed and land will be found.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature has identified 160 million hectares of land, in 26 countries, with restoration potential.

But most of these areas will be "mosaic" land, where trees would need to grow within managed, mainly agricultural, landscapes. The reason is very simple: most of the forest that has been lost has been transformed into agricultural land, and that land won't be recovered as long as the demand for food continues to grow. If we need more trees, many will have to be introduced into managed agricultural mosaic landscapes.

Fortunately, trees can be valuable and profitable parts of agricultural systems. They provide timber, food and fuel. They make soils more fertile, and protect the ecosystem services that agriculture depends upon. Trees on farms bring immediate benefits to farmers and contribute 17% of gross income in tree-growing households in sub-Saharan Africa.

Slow uptake

Increasing tree cover on farms is more than an ambition, it's already happening around the world, especially on smaller, mixed farms. Recent research shows that 45% of farms worldwide have more than 10% tree cover.

But, for its part, mainstream agriculture  still tends to ignore the need to plant trees and there are two reasons for this.

Firstly, agroforestry as a modern approach to farm production and land management  in contrast to agroforestry as a traditional farming practice  is a relatively new idea, dating back only to the 1970s. Agriculture and forest institutions around the world have been slow to adapt themselves.

Secondly, agroforestry gets lost between agriculture and forestry ministries and departments, often hosted in one institution and ignored by the other. This precludes the joining of forces of different specialists needed to push the agenda of trees on farms.

Some countries are breaking this trend. India, for example, has developed a pioneering national agroforestry policy, supported at federal level, funded down to state level and with incentives for state universities to reform their agricultural syllabuses to include agroforestry.

Explore further Agroforestry systems may play vital role in mitigating climate change

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.Illustration showing the nanotweezers extracting a mitochondrion from a cell. Credit: Imperial College London

Using electrical impulses, the 'tweezers' can extract single DNA, proteins and organelles from living cells without destroying them.

We are continuously expanding our knowledge on how cells function, but many unanswered questions remain. This is especially true for individual cells that are of the same type, such as brain, muscle or fat cells, but have very different compositions at the single-molecule level.

Cataloguing the diversity of seemingly identical cells can help researchers to better understand fundamental cellular processes and design improved models of disease, and even new patient-specific therapies.

However, traditional methods for studying these differences typically involve bursting the cell, resulting in all of its contents getting mixed. This results not only in the loss of spatial informationhow the contents were laid out in relation to each other, but also in dynamic information, such as molecular changes in the cell over time.

A new technique, developed by a team led by Professor Joshua Edel and Dr. Alex Ivanov at Imperial College London, enables researchers to extract single molecules from live cells, without destroying them. The research, published today in the journal Nature Nanotechnology, could help scientists in building up a 'human cell atlas', providing new insights into how healthy cells function and what goes wrong in diseased cells.

Professor Joshua Edel, from the Department of Chemistry at Imperial, said: "With our tweezers, we can extract the minimum number of molecules that we need from a cell in real time, without damaging it. We have demonstrated that we can manipulate and extract several different parts from different regions of the cellincluding mitochondria from the cell body, RNA from different locations in the cytoplasm and even DNA from the nucleus."

The tweezers are formed from a sharp glass rod terminating with a pair of electrodes made from a carbon-based material much like graphite. The tip is less than 50 nanometers (a nanometre is one-millionth of a millimetre) in diameter and is split into two electrodes, with a 10 to 20-nanometre gap between them.

By applying an alternating current voltage, this small gap creates a powerful highly localised electrical field that can trap and extract the small contents of cells such as DNA and transcription factorsmolecules that can change the activity of genes.

The method is based on a phenomenon called dielectrophoresis. The tweezers generate a sufficiently high electric field enabling the trapping of certain objects such as single molecules and particles. The ability to pick out individual molecules form a cell sets it apart from alternative technologies.

The technique could potentially be used to carry out experiments not currently possible. For example, nerve cells require much energy to fire messages around the body, so they contain many mitochondria to help them function. However, by adding or removing mitochondria from individual nerve cells, researchers could better understand their role, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases.

Dr. Alex Ivanov, from the Department of Chemistry at Imperial, said: "These nanoscale tweezers could be a vital addition to the toolbox for manipulating single cells and their parts. By studying living cells at the molecular level, we can extract individual molecules from the same location with unprecedented spatial resolution and over multiple points in time. This may provide a deeper understanding of cellular processes, and in establishing why cells from the same type can be very different to each other."

Professor Edel added: "The whole project was only made possible by the unique know-how and abilities and enthusiasm of the young team members, including Dr. Binoy Paulose Nadappuram and Dr. Paolo Cadinu, amongst others, who all have diverse expertise and backgrounds."

Explore further New way to look at cell membranes could change the way we study disease

More information: Binoy Paulose Nadappuram et al, Nanoscale tweezers for single-cell biopsies, Nature Nanotechnology (2018). Journal information: Nature Nanotechnology Binoy Paulose Nadappuram et al, Nanoscale tweezers for single-cell biopsies,(2018). DOI: 10.1038/s41565-018-0315-8This Nov. 16, 2018, image provide by NASA shows the asteroid Bennu. After a two-year chase, a NASA spacecraft has arrived at the ancient asteroid Bennu, its first visitor in billions of years. The robotic explorer Osiris-Rex pulled within 12 miles (19 kilometers) of the diamond-shaped space rock Monday, Dec. 3. The image, which was taken by the PolyCam camera, shows Bennu at 300 pixels and has been stretched to increase contrast between highlights and shadows. (NASA/Goddard/University of Arizona via AP)

After a two-year chase, a NASA spacecraft arrived Monday at the ancient asteroid Bennu, its first visitor in billions of years.

The robotic explorer Osiris-Rex pulled within 12 miles (19 kilometers) of the diamond-shaped space rock. It will get even closer in the days ahead and go into orbit around Bennu on Dec. 31. No spacecraft has ever orbited such a small cosmic body.

It is the first U.S. attempt to gather asteroid samples for return to Earth, something only Japan has accomplished so far.

Flight controllers applauded and exchanged high-fives once confirmation came through that Osiris-Rex made it to Bennuexactly one week after NASA landed a spacecraft on Mars.

"Relieved, proud, and anxious to start exploring!" tweeted lead scientist Dante Lauretta of the University of Arizona. "To Bennu and back!"

With Bennu some 76 million miles (122 million kilometers) away, it took seven minutes for word to get from the spacecraft to flight controllers at Lockheed Martin in Littleton, Colorado. The company built the spacecraft there.

Bennu is estimated to be just over 1,600 feet (500 meters) across. Researchers will provide a more precise description at a scientific meeting next Monday in Washington.

About the size of an SUV, the spacecraft will shadow the asteroid for a year, before scooping up some gravel for return to Earth in 2023.

Scientists are eager to study material from a carbon-rich asteroid like dark Bennu, which could hold evidence dating back to the beginning of our solar system 4.5 billion years ago. As such, it's an astronomical time capsule.

A Japanese spacecraft, meanwhile, has been hanging out at another near-Earth asteroid since June, also for samples. It is Japan's second asteroid mission. This latest rock is named Ryugu and about double the size of Bennu.

Ryugu's specks should be here by December 2020, but will be far less than Osiris-Rex's promised booty.

Osiris-Rex aims to collect at least 60 grams, or 2 ounces, of dust and gravel. The spacecraft won't land, but rather use a 10-foot (3-meter) mechanical arm in 2020 to momentarily touch down and vacuum up particles. The sample container would break loose and head toward Earth in 2021.

The collectionparachuting down to Utahwould represent the biggest cosmic haul since the Apollo astronauts hand-delivered moon rocks to Earth in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

NASA has brought back comet dust and solar wind particles before, but never asteroid samples. Japan managed to return some tiny particles in 2010 from its first asteroid mission , also named Hayabusa.

Both Bennu and Ryugu are considered potentially hazardous asteroids. That means they could smack Earth years from now. At worst, Bennu would carve out a crater during a projected close call 150 years from now.

Contact with Bennu will not significantly change its orbit or make it more dangerous to us, Lauretta stressed.

Scientists contend the more they learn about asteroids, the better equipped Earth will be in heading off a truly catastrophic strike.

The $800 million Osiris-Rex mission began with a 2016 launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida. Its odometer read 1.2 billion miles (2 billion kilometers) as of Monday.

Both the spacecraft and asteroid's names come from Egyptian mythology. Osiris is the god of the afterlife, while Bennu represents the heron and creation.

Osiris-Rex is actually a NASA acronym for origins, spectral interpretation, resource identification, security-regolith explorer.

 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.30 minutes ago

Do You Need a Financial Advisor Before the End of the Year? Heres How to Know for Sure

Suspect that you might need a financial advisor or financial planner? Deciding whether to add a financial advisor to your "team" might depend on a variety of reasons, both personal and practical. The

Read ArticleIf someone takes part in a photo shoot for the promotion of a clothing line, they consented to his or her image being used online as part of the designers advertising campaign  surely? Similarly, if you blur somebodys face in a film so much so that he or she is no longer recognizable, you have dispensed with your obligation to respect their right to their image  surely? Well, dont be so sure  the Paris Tribunal would reject both assumptions, according to recent judgments on image rights.





16 November 2018 21 November 2018 In two decisions, datedand, respectively, the Paris Tribunal (Tribunal de Grande Instance) clarified the application of image rights in the context of commercial advertising, opting for an interpretation of the law favourable to models and performers.





The contribution of the Tribunals recent jurisprudence declared that:

Taking part in a photo shoot for advertising purposes does not imply consenting to all forms of commercial exploitation, notably if the scale of the marketing campaign using the image is broader than what was expected by the model.

Blurring the face of a model/performer does not put an end to the breach of his/her image rights when the rest of his/her body still features in the film.

In both cases, the claimants were models. In both cases, there was some form of agreement in place between the model and the production company. Yet, in each case the model's image rights was reached. So what went wrong? Read on for more.









A female model, Mrs X, participated in a photo shoot for SARL Denim, a clothes designer and defendant in the case. Mrs had been paid 300 euros for the session. No additional remuneration for the commercialization of the image was negotiated or agreed upon, in part, it would seem, because the model was subsequently hired as an employee in a different department within the same company. commercialization

www.grossiste-en-ligne.com The photos resulting from the photo shoot were then used in a collection catalogue of the company, distributed via the website of an online retail distributor:. The same photos were also posted on the social media accounts of the company.





Cat consent?

Photograph by Michelangelo Cecilia

The model complained that she was not expecting the photos in which she appeared to be part of a marketing campaign of such a scale. She sued the company for infringement of her image rights on the basis that she never consented to her image being exploited in the context of such a wide advertising campaign.





The Paris Tribunal accepted her claims, noting that there was no evidence, written or other, that she had consented to the use of her image the extent described above. This is because the contract of employment signed by the parties for the purpose of the photo shoot made no mention of her consent for the commercial use of her image, on either a small or large scale. For this reason, her consent could not be implied. In particular, her participation in the photo shoot does imply her consent to a large-scale advertising campaign.

The company does not evidence that Mrs X consented, even in an implied manner, to the use of her image via the range of media at issue, the mere fact of agreeing to take part in a photo shoot does not amount to such an agreement; incidentally, authorizations regarding the use of an attribute of ones personality, which do not provide for a time limitation or range of media restrictions, are not valid in light of the rules governing contract law. *









Shot from Umanlife's advertising clip

The claimant, a model by trade, had agreed to the commercialization of his image rights via an advertising video clip produced for the start-up company Umanlife, in which he featured. In a written agreement signed on 24 September 2013, the claimant had agreed to the use of his image on any media for a period of two years. commercialization





here By October 2016, i.e. over three years after the contract was signed, the model noticed that the video featuring his performance was still available on YouTube (seeand below). The start-up considered that it was still their contractual right to use the models image because the release of the video clip had been delayed by a year, therefore, the companys usage of the models image (which took place between the autumn of 2014 and the autumn of 2016) was still within the term prescribed by the agreement. Unfortunately for Umanlife, the contract did not specify the starting point of the contract. On the basis of the evidence submitted by the parties, the Tribunal interpreted the term applicable to the image rights to run from the point of the formation of the contract, and not from the release of the video by the company.





Interestingly, the Tribunal also agreed with the claimants submission that the fact that Umanlife edited the video so as to blur the face of Mr X in the version of clip distributed on YouTube did not put an end to the acts of infringement. It appears that between the time Umanlife was notified of Mr Xs claim for infringement and the date of the hearing, Umanlife edited the video to limit their liability for infringement.





This precaution by Umanlife was not enough in the eye of the Tribunal. Even if the model is no longer identifiable in the edited YouTube video because his image is blurred, the company was still infringing his image rights, this because the video was still showing his body without consent. The decision states:

It does not matter whether or not the claimants face is blurred on the day of the hearing, if the rest of his body, an element of his image right, still features in the film. **

As a result, the claimant was awarded 8,000 euros in damages for breach of Mr Xs image rights (in addition to damages for costs, amounting to 3,500 euros). Nevertheless, the Tribunal refused to grant an injunction to take-down the video from YouTube, the only online platform on which it is available, considering that the damages provided sufficient compensation for the prejudice suffered. The Tribunal also noted that granting the injunction would have been dis-proportionally harmful to the start-up company which had already compensated the model for his work  implying, it seems, that the defendants pockets were not deep enough to require them to produce a new video. The decision does not expand any further on this point.





On a lighter note, this means that the claimants blurred performance is still out there to be enjoyed by all.





Umanlife's advertising clip





* Kats translation. O riginal text reads: la societe ne demontre pas quimplicitement, Mme X. aurait donne son accord a lutilisation de son image sur les multiples supports en cause, le simple fait daccepter des seances photo nimpliquant pas un tel accord ; quau demeurant, ne serait pas valable une autorisation, illimitee dans le temps, sur tout support, sagissant dun attribut de la personnalite et compte tenu des regles regissant le droit des contrat.



This report was compiled by Lisa Andre. You can reach her at landre@leecentralcoastnews.com. Follow her on Twitter @LAndreSYVNews En banc Fifth Circuit overrules multiple precedents to clean up (and expand) its "crime of violence" jurisprudence | Main | The faulty and foul thinking continuing to thwart a vote on the FIRST STEP Act 

Michael Cohen is scheduled to be sentenced by US District Judge William Pauley in New York City on December 12 after his guilty plea to charges including campaign finance fraud and lying to Congress. Late Friday, Cohen's lawyers filed this 30-page sentencing memorandum which makes a substantial plea for leniency. Here are two good accountings of the filing:

From Lawfare, "There's a Lot Going On in Michael Cohen's Sentencing Memo"

From the New York Times, "Michael Cohen, Ex-Trump Lawyer, Asks U.S. Judge for Leniency"

Here are excerpts from the document's notable preliminary statement (with cites removed):

Beginning before the entry of his plea on August 21, 2018, and continuing thereafter through late November, Michael participated in seven voluntary interview meetings with the Special Counsels Office of the Department of Justice (SCO). He intends to continue to make himself available to the SCO as and when needed for additional questioning. He also agreed to plead guilty to an additional count, namely, making false statements to Congress, based in part on information that he voluntarily provided to the SCO in meetings governed by a limited-use immunity proffer agreement. The SCO is expected to submit a letter to the Court describing its assessment of Michaels cooperation, and the Office of the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York (Office) is expected to join with the SCO in presenting Michaels cooperation to the Court as a mitigating sentencing factor under 18 U.S.C.  3553(a). Michaels decision to cooperate and take full responsibility for his own conduct well reflects his personal resolve, notwithstanding past errors, to re-point his internal compass true north toward a productive, ethical and thoroughly law abiding life.

For what it says about Michaels fortitude and fundamental character, the significance of his cooperation with the SCO falls outside of the ordinary framework in which courts routinely assess cooperation in criminal cases. It states the obvious to observe that this matter is unique. Michael is cooperating in a setting in which the legitimacy of the SCOs investigation  and the rationale for its very existence  is regularly questioned publicly and stridently by the President of the United States.... The President routinely denounces the SCO investigation as politically biased and reliant on excessively aggressive prosecutorial tactics....

In the context of this raw, full-bore attack by the most powerful person in the United States, Michael, formerly a confidante and adviser to Mr. Trump, resolved to cooperate, and voluntarily took the first steps toward doing so even before he was charged in this District. He took these steps, moreover, despite regular public reports referring to the Presidents consideration of pardons and pre-pardons in the SCOs investigation.... And, he acted knowing that the result would be personal attacks on him by the President, a bevy of advisers and public relations specialists, and political supporters of the President, as well as threats to him. Although it is true that any decision to cooperate in an investigation directly or indirectly touching a sitting President would be weighty and fraught for any former confidante and associate, here, in the circumstances of this case, at this time, in this climate, Michaels decision to cooperate required and requires singular determination and personal conviction. He could have fought the government and continued to hold to the party line, positioning himself perhaps for a pardon or clemency, but, instead  for himself, his family, and his country  he took personal responsibility for his own wrongdoing and contributed, and is prepared to continue to contribute, to an investigation that he views as thoroughly legitimate and vital....

For the reasons set forth below, we respectfully request that the Court, based on (1) the cooperation Michael has provided, (2) his commitment to continue to cooperate, and (3) all of the remaining sentencing factors required to be considered under 18 U.S.C.  3553(a), impose a sentence of time-served and restitution to the IRS. Michael Cohen makes pitch for "time-served and restitution to the IRS" based largely on his continuing cooperation | Main | "21 Principles for the 21st Century Prosecutor" 

December 3, 2018

The faulty and foul thinking continuing to thwart a vote on the FIRST STEP Act

A new week bring a new round of stories about the status of the debate over the FIRST STEP Act. For example, this morning's Politico piece, headlined "Trump lays off McConnell as criminal justice reform stalls: Advocates fear the president isnt fully invested in the fight for the bill," is focused on whether Prez Trump should be trying to do more to get the legislation through Congress. Given that Prez Trump does not work in Congress, I would rather these days to see stories about whether he will ever make good on all his prior clemency talk, but that it a topic for a coming post.

Of course, I understand why Politico and others are inclined to focus on Prez Trump 's role in this process, but I have long been wondering why nobody is talking about whether Senate Judiciary Chair Charles Grassley would be willing to stall/block any and all votes on judicial nominees  not only now in lame duck, but also in the next Congress  until a Senate floor vote is scheduled on criminal justice reform bills. As this AP story notes, outgoing GOP Senator Jeff Flake is using his judiciary power to block votes on judges to seek a floor vote on a bill to provide protections for the special counsel. As a Beltway outsider, I do not see why Senator Grassley  or other big GOP reform supporters on the Judiciary Committee like Mike Lee  are not at least talking up a similar move to try to get Senator McConnell to schedule a vote on the FIRST STEP Act.

Meanwhile, this CNN article discussing the discussion of the FIRST STEP Act among GOP Senators provides this glimpse into the faulty and foul thinking that creates challenges for any and all criminal justice reform efforts:

Sens. John Cornyn of Texas and Dick Durbin of Illinois, the number-two ranking Republican and Democrat respectively, discussed in the Senate gym Thursday morning potential compromises that could get wary Republicans on board. "This is a once in a political lifetime opportunity," Durbin said. In a separate interview, Cornyn said that addressing some of the concerns of one law enforcement group  the National Sheriffs' Association  would "guarantee" the support of some Republicans. Cornyn, the GOP Whip, said his job was to give McConnell "an accurate count of where the votes are," rather than arm-twisting members into voting for it. He also noted that "our time is limited" in getting it done. Many Democrats are in favor of the bill  Durbin, the Democratic whip, said his party's "support for this measure is solid." If the Senate can pass it, the House is expected to easily do so too. This has left the fight to Republican members of the Senate. Sen. Rand Paul, a Republican from Kentucky, told CNN that there's a generational divide within the party on the issue.... "We had one of the senators in the lunch saying, 'You know how you get no recidivism? Don't ever let him out of jail. Zero recidivism!'" added Paul, referring to a closed-door meeting GOP senators held this week.

This contention of "Zero recidivism!" is most obviously faulty because it fails to acknowledge that prisoners can and do commit crimes while in prison, with the most common victims being prison guards and other prisons. This contention is most obviously foul because it entirely disregards the humanity and social meaning of those persons who become federal prisoners (not to mention all their friends and families). Fundamental ignorance about prisons and prisoners, along with a easy willingness to dehumanize and disregard the interests of those in our criminal justice system and those who care about those in our criminal justice system, help account for why it can be so very easy for all to many leaders to talk this way when seeking to thwart thoughtful and balanced criminal justice reform efforts.

Of course, though nobody is really serious about making all federal crimes subject to mandatory LWOP terms in the name of recidivism reduction, there is also a telling revelation in this faulty and foul comment imagining permanent imprisonment for everyone. Opponents of the FIRST STEP Act are fundamentally making the claim that we should fear a bill intended and well-designed to seek to reduce recidivism rates among federal prisoners because the recidivism rates among federal prisoners are currently too high.

Some of the most recent of many prior related posts:

December 3, 2018 at 10:43 AM | Permalink

Comments

At this point, I am not sure that it matters. Last that I saw, the House was still planning to recess on December 13. Given that whatever the Senate passes will be different from what the House passed, it seems unlikely that the House will take up the amended act before it leaves town on December 13. Which means that everything will start over from scratch next year. With the change in composition of both Houses and the presidential campaign, it seems likely that we are in a holding pattern until 2021.

Posted by: tmm | Dec 3, 2018 3:52:24 PM

Post a commentTokyo shares closed higher Monday, as investors breathed a sigh of relief after the US and China agreed to suspend new tariffs in their escalating trade war.

The benchmark Nikkei 225 index, which has ended higher for the past six days, added 1.00 percent or 223.70 points at 22,574.76, while the broader Topix index rose 1.30 percent or 21.60 points at 1,689.05.

Investors returned to buying after the long-awaited meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of weekend G20 talks in Argentina.

The leaders of the world's top two economies agreed not to impose new tariffs and to continue talking, lowering the temperature of a conflict that has spooked world markets.

"In addition to the sense of relief following the US-China summit, the rise of Shanghai and Hong Kong stocks helped investors seek to buy shares in the afternoon trade," Yoshihiro Ito, chief strategist at Okasan Online Securities, said in a commentary.

Under the US-China agreement, Trump shelved a plan to raise existing tariffs of 10 percent to 25 percent from the start of next year.

But the White House said the tariffs would still leap up to 25 percent if China does not meet US demands in 90 days.

In the forex market, the US dollar traded at 113.52 yen against 113.54 yen in New York Friday.

Investors are now looking to the upcoming OPEC meeting as crude prices slump on global markets, Mizuho Securities said in a note.

Among notable gainers in Tokyo on Monday were China-related shares like industrial robot maker Fanuc, which jumped 1.05 percent to 19,595 yen.

Toyota soared 3.36 percent to 7,032 yen and SoftBank added 1.33 percent to 9,653 yen.

Uniqlo-operator Fast Retailing opened higher, but lost 0.77 percent at the close to 58,580 yen.Singapore Police Force (SPF) in a statement on Monday (3 December). The joint operation, which was conducted between 22 October and 23 November this year, saw 23 men and 178 women detained. Officers from the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) coordinated simultaneous anti-vice raids at 83 locations in Singapore and in various parts of China between 22 October and 23 November 2018. PHOTO: Screengrab from SPF video

More than 200 individuals have been arrested in Singapore and China in a joint operation against a transnational vice syndicate, said the Singapore Police Force (SPF) in a statement on Monday (3 December).

The joint operation, which was conducted between 22 October and 23 November this year, saw 23 men and 178 women detained. Officers from the SPF and the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) coordinated simultaneous raids at 83 locations in Singapore and in various parts of China.

173 women and 12 men, aged between 19 and 53, were arrested in the Republic for offences under the Womens Charter, while five women and 11 men, aged between 21 and 48, were arrested in China.

Cash amounting to almost $70,000, laptops and mobile phones were seized as case exhibits in Singapore, while cash amounting to about RMB420,000 ($83,000) was seized in China.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the vice syndicate in China was operating a vice website which advertised the sexual services of Chinese women in Singapore, said an SPF spokesperson.

The syndicate was believed to have arranged for these Chinese women to travel to Singapore to carry out vice activities, and they were operating mainly at private apartments and HDB flats in the heartlands.

House owners play an important role in preventing vice activities, and are reminded to conduct regular checks on their tenants to prevent such activities from proliferating in residential estates, added the spokesperson.

House owners who knowingly rent their premises to any person for vice-related activities will be prosecuted and face imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or a fine not exceeding $3,000, or both.

More Singapore stories

Malaysians up in arms over CNN calling cendol Singaporean

Youth admits to hurling Molotov cocktail at neighbours flat on behalf of loanshark

$366,000 lost to God of Fortune 4D lottery scams between Jan and Oct: policeAn Australian was among hundreds of pro-Papuan independence activists arrested across Indonesia at the weekend, police and rights groups said Monday. Some 233 activists, including Australian Ronda Amy Harman, were detained late Saturday in Indonesia's second-largest city Surabaya, East Java police spokesman Frans Barung Mangera told AFP. The arrests were made at a student dormitory, said lawyer Veronica Koman, who represented some of the detainees. They were among more than 500 activists swept up in a nationwide police crackdown that coincided with rallies on December 1, a date many Papuans consider should be the anniversary of their independence from the Dutch. Papua declared itself an independent nation on that date in 1961, but neighbouring Indonesia took control of the region by force in 1963. It officially annexed Papua in 1969 with a UN-backed vote, widely seen as a sham. No one was formally charged in the Surabaya arrests including Harman, but the 35-year-old woman was reported to immigration officials, Mangera said. The mass arrests followed a rally in which counter protestors threw stones at around 300 Papuans, injuring 16 people, Amnesty International said. Jakarta keeps a tight grip on resource-rich Papua, which has been the scene of a low-level independence insurgency since the late Sixties. Some of the violence has been centred on protests against a huge gold and copper mine operated by US-based firm Freeport McMoRan -- a frequent flashpoint in the local struggle for independence and a bigger share of the region's rich resources. A spokesperson for Australias department of foreign affairs and trade said it was aware of reports that Harman had been detained in Indonesia and said it was ready to offer consular assistance. Lawyer Koman -- who was with the activists in Surabaya -- said the Australian was at the dormitory with her boyfriend, one of the Papuan students. She is now being kept at a hotel and it was likely she would be deported, Koman added. Rights groups have blasted authorities for the mass detentions, saying it was an assault on Papuans right to freedom of expression and assembly. "These people did nothing but peacefully attend public events," Amnesty International Indonesia's executive director Usman Hamid said in a statement. "These arbitrary arrests add to the long list of acts of harassment, intimidation and arrests faced by Papuans." In August, authorities arrested Pole Jakub Skrzypski in Papua for alleged links to separatists and he could face life in prison if convicted. His trial date has not yet been set.Exiled Chinese dissident Wei Jingsheng has lived a good life in the United States for more than 20 years. But the man often called the father of his country's modern democracy movement still welcomes visitors the Chinese way -- by offering them a cigarette. In a lengthy interview with AFP at his home in a Maryland suburb south of the US capital, he lights one for himself -- and starts unleashing harsh criticism of the "one-party dictatorship" in power in Beijing. It's a familiar battle cry: for four decades, Wei has railed against state oppression of the Chinese people's democratic aspirations. That battle cost him 18 years of his life, spent in a series of prison cells. In 1997, after international pressure -- including a plea from then US president Bill Clinton -- he was released, ostensibly on medical grounds, and put on a plane to America. Now 68, Wei is hooked on Gauloises -- strong French cigarettes that are hard to find in the US -- but is otherwise in good shape. He runs his namesake foundation from his home, battling for human rights in China. On Wednesday, he will mark a landmark anniversary -- on December 5, 1978, he posted "The Fifth Modernization" on a wall in Beijing. The essay said that Deng Xiaoping's "Four Modernizations" did not go far enough, and called for democracy to be a goal for China alongside the four Deng cited: the development of industry, agriculture, science and technology, and national defense. Deng is considered the architect of China's opening up to the world. But Wei, whose essay landed him in prison, says that Deng gets too much credit. - Reforms only went 'halfway' - "I should correct a popular saying, both inside China and internationally, which claims that Deng Xiaoping is responsible for the opening-up and the reform," he said, speaking in Mandarin. "This reform only went halfway, economically but not politically," he lamented. "Now, in the Xi Jinping era, politically it is even going further backwards," he added, referring to the ongoing offensive against rights activists. In the post-Mao era that began in the late 1970s, China's opening-up was prompted by a broad popular movement, supported not just by Deng but by other senior Communist Party leaders. In the end, Wei said, "communist China is a mix between a one-party dictatorship and capitalism." "When they suppress the people, it's more severe than anywhere else," he charged. - Famous faces - Sipping black tea from China's southeastern Fujian province, Wei did not hold back in his biting criticism of those who have followed Deng to the heights of power in Beijing. An electrician by trade -- he once worked at the Beijing Zoo -- Wei accused former Chinese leader Jiang Zemin of exploiting cheap labor at home and high prices in the West to reap huge profits that he shared with Western creditors. "During the Mao Zedong years, China was a poor socialist country. Now China is a poor capitalist country. Overall, the average Chinese did not get the benefit," he said. As for Xi, who has a clear path to staying in power longer than the habitual 10 years, now that the ruling party plans to abolish term limits, Wei did not mince words. "Xi Jinping doesn't just want to become emperor after 2023," when his first 10 years in office will end, he said, speaking Mandarin. "He wants to be the emperor now." Wei, who repeatedly said that the Chinese government "never follows the rules," has gained traction in Washington's political circles. On the walls of his home, perched above a tributary of the Potomac River, are huge photographs of him with former US presidents Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush. But Wei, the winner of multiple human rights awards including the Sakharov prize, said he doesn't venture into the US capital too often anymore. "The American government and European governments are concerned over my safety," he said, without further explanation.Stocks listed in mainland China and Hong Kong rose on Monday after Chinese president Xi Jinping and his US counterpart, Donald Trump, reached an agreement over the weekend to de-escalate the US-China trade war.

On the mainland, the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index rose by 2.6 per cent to 2,654.8, recording its biggest daily gain in a month, following a 90-day trade truce agreed by Xi and Trump at the G20 summit in Argentina that will allow time for further talks.

In Hong Kong, the benchmark Hang Seng Index advanced by 2.6 per cent to 27,182.04, after China promised to buy a substantial amount of US goods while the White House will put on hold a scheduled increase in tariffs next month on US$200 billion worth of Chinese imports. Markets also rose in Japan and South Korea.

The 90-day truce has lifted market sentiment significantly, said Louis Tse Ming-kwong, managing director at VC Asset Management. Optimism in the market is likely to go on over the next three months, but we have to watch out for the specific compromises each country will make.

If the two countries fail to strike a deal at the end of the truce period, which starts on January 1, the US said it would go ahead with its tariff increase from 10 per cent to 25 per cent.

The benchmark indices in Shanghai and Hong Kong have dropped by 21 per cent and 11 per cent, respectively, since the beginning of the year, weighed down by the escalating trade war and Chinas slowing economy.

We see the ongoing dialogue between the two sides as an important catalyst for Asian markets to recover lost ground this year, said Tai Hui, strategist at JPMorgan Asset Management in Hong Kong.

The gains on equities were broad-based. Almost all of the 3,600-plus stocks on the Shanghai and Shenzhen exchanges rose, with just 42 falling.

Carmakers and car part producers led the advance, after Trump tweeted China had agreed to reduce and remove the current 40 per cent tariffs on imported cars from the US.

Story continues

Sinomach Automobile, Chinas leading car imports dealer, surged by the daily limit of 10 per cent to 7.7 yuan in Shanghai. ADD Industry (Zhejiang) Corporation, which sells car parts, also rose by the 10 per cent limit to 1.75 yuan. Huayu Automotive Systems climbed by 4.7 per cent to 17.75 yuan.

Macau casino operators also climbed broadly on the back of robust November income data, which shows recovery from months of weakening growth dragged down by Chinas economic slowdown and the trade war. Gaming revenue rose by 8.5 per cent to 25 billion patacas (US$3.1 billion) from a year earlier, Macaus Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau said on Saturday.

MGM China Holdings soared by 13.2 per cent to HK$15.12, Sands China surged by 12 per cent to HK$11.96, and Wynn Macau jumped by 11.1 per cent to HK$19.76.

Technology and consumer stocks also gained. Telecommunications equipment giant ZTE, which was temporarily banned by the US from buying parts from American suppliers for three months this year, rose by 7.9 per cent to HK$21.44. WH Group, the Chinese pork behemoth that owns American meat processing company Smithfield, jumped by 11.7 per cent to HK$6.38. Chinese liquor maker Kweichow Moutai gained by 6.4 per cent to 601.2 yuan.

Brokerages gained after regulator China Financial Futures Exchange eased restrictions on trading derivatives for a third time since a stock rout in 2015. Caitong Securities climbed 4.3 per cent to 8.21 yuan and Everbright Securities rose by 3.1 per cent to 10.29 yuan. Huatai Securities added 4.7 per cent to 17.59 yuan.

Futures contracts on the CSI 300 rose by 2.8 per cent. Required margins for trading these contracts will be lowered to 10 per cent from 15 per cent starting Monday, while those for contracts linked to a mid-cap index will be halved to 15 per cent, the regulator said in a statement on Sunday. Beijing had imposed a barrage of measures to curb the shorting of index futures, which were blamed partly for the stock crash in 2015 that wiped off US$5 trillion in market value.

This article Xi and Trumps 90-day trade war truce pushes up stocks in mainland China, Hong Kong first appeared on South China Morning Post

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018.

More from South China Morning Post:A young woman who feeds morsels of meat to wolves from between her teeth has become Chinas latest online celebrity.

Zhou Xinyue, 20, cares for eight wolves at an eco-tourism destination in Inner Mongolias Chifeng city.

The animals will eventually be available for film and television appearances, as well as tourist photographs, but for now the project is still under development, according to Beijing Youth Daily.

Zhous daily routine includes chopping up all kinds of meat, from chicken to lamb and lamb giblets, which she then feeds to the wolves in a designated hill area.

It takes about an hour to feed them each time, Zhou said.

Sometimes they can be naughty, so I have to hit them while feeding. They dont attack me, but sometimes their sharp claws can scratch me. It is totally unintentional, she told the Daily.

Allowing a wolf to take a piece of meat from her own mouth occasionally helps to build an emotional link between herself and the animals, she said.

Last week a video of Zhou in Mongolian dress feeding the wolves with her mouth attracted plenty of interest among Chinas online community, although her little-known job also sparked controversy over the legitimacy of raising the wildlife as well as safety concerns.

In an interview with the Daily, Zhou said the wolves had all been bought from a breeding centre in northeast China and receive regular vaccine injections and treatment against parasites.

She added that the wolves are kept in pens and fed twice a day, each eating a total of more than 10kg of meat per day.

Zhou is no stranger to wolves, having worked as a breeder of the animals for the past four years. She previously raised four other wolves at her uncles home in Fushun, Liaoning province in northeast China.

She was formally employed at the eco-tourism destination in November, where she makes less than 3,000 yuan (US$435) a month. But its not about the money for Zhou, who said she enjoys being with the wolves.

Story continues

I liked canines when I was little. My family raised a few dogs, and when I visited my uncle and met the wolves, I felt like communicating with them very much, she said.

This article Chinas wolf woman feeds animals from her own mouth first appeared on South China Morning Post

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018.AFP News

It looks like a normal car but the white taxi by the kerb has nobody driving it, and communicates with customers digitally to obtain directions and take payment.China's President Xi Jinping and his Panamanian counterpart Juan Carlos Varela signed a string of cooperation agreements Monday as Beijing aims to extend its political and economic influence in Latin America. Xi arrived in the Central American country late Sunday, fresh from striking a 90-day truce deal in the trade war with US President Donald Trump at the G20 summit in Argentina. Xi and Varela signed a score of infrastructure, tourism and development cooperation agreements as Panama became the first Latin American country to partner with Beijing's giant multi-billion dollar global investment initiative known as "Belt and Road." Xi's visit comes after Panama broke ties with Taiwan last year and switched its allegiance to Beijing. Since Panama's move, two other Central American countries -- the Dominican Republic and El Salvador -- have made the switch. "Our bilateral relations have had a strong start after only a year and a half," Xi said. Varela said Xi's visit -- and the investment it brought -- meant Panama would become "the gateway of China to Latin America." The two countries are also negotiating a free trade agreement. Xi also met with business leaders and visited the Panama Canal's new Cocoli Locks. China is the canal's second biggest user after the United States. In a column written for local newspaper Estrella de Panama, Xi said he had "high expectations" for the visit, the first ever by a Chinese leader to the country. "We must be cooperative partners of mutual benefit and shared profits," wrote Xi. - Logistics hub - Beijing hopes Panama can be a logistics hub for the expansion of trade in Latin America and the Caribbean -- an idea the local business community has fully embraced. "Panama usually generates a lot of interest because of its strategic location in the region and because of the canal," Severo Sousa, president of the National Business Council (Conep), told AFP. These factors -- along with Panama's political stability, growing economy and deep financial network -- are "very attractive" to China, Sousa added. "What the Chinese want is very clear, they want to take advantage of the geographical position for their expansion and development in the region," said economist Francisco Bustamante. "A strong Chinese presence in Panama reaffirms to the world China's rise in the global hierarchy at the expense of the United States," said Carlos Guevara Mann, professor of international relations at Florida State University in Panama. "Being caught in the rivalry between China and the United States would be extremely problematic for Panama," because "it could lead to reprisals by Washington," warned Mann. During a visit to the Central American country last month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Varela about China's growing influence in the region. - Tug of war over Taiwan - China and Taiwan have been governed separately since the end of a civil war on the mainland in 1949, but Beijing sees the island as part of its territory awaiting reunification. Beijing and Taipei have been engaged for years in a diplomatic tug-of-war in developing countries, with aid and economic support often used as bargaining chips to gain diplomatic recognition. Washington, which has accused the Chinese of trying to use aid to drive a wedge between Taipei and its Western Hemisphere partners, recalled its envoy to Panama City in September this year. Varela, who visited China last year, promptly asked the US to respect his country's sovereignty.Alan Garcia, a former president of Peru embroiled in a corruption scandal, left the embassy of Uruguay in Lima on Monday after his request for political asylum was rejected, officials said. "To put it simply, we have not granted the request for asylum," Uruguay's President Tabare Vazquez told a press conference in Montevideo. Vazquez said his government took the decision after reviewing Garcia's request and documentation submitted by the Peruvian government. Peru's Foreign Minister Nestor Popolizio told the RPP radio station in Lima that he had been informed by the Uruguayan ambassador that Garcia had left the embassy. The 69-year-old Garcia took refuge in the Uruguayan embassy on November 17 after a Peruvian court investigating bribes allegedly paid by Brazilian contractor Odebrecht barred the former president from leaving the country. Garcia, a social democrat who served two separate terms as president, maintained he was the target of political persecution, a charge denied by Peru's President Martin Vizcarra. "In Peru, nobody has a crown. Our democracy guarantees the independence of powers and due process," Vizcarra said on Twitter. Garcia had returned to Peru in November to testify in the Odebrecht case when the court issued an order barring him from leaving the country for 18 months. "In Peru, the three powers of state operate autonomously and it is the judicial branch that is carrying out the investigations of possible economic crimes," Vazquez said at a joint press conference with Foreign Minister Rodolfo Nin Novoa. "For strictly legal considerations we are not granting political asylum to Mr Alan Garcia," the Uruguayan president said. The Odebrecht payments were allegedly made during his second term in office, from 2006-2011, to secure a contract to build the Lima metro. He had previously been president from 1985-1990. Odebrecht has admitted to paying $29 million in bribes to Peruvian officials over three administrations. The Peruvian press also has reported that Garcia received a $100,000 payment from an illicit Odebrecht fund for giving a speech to Brazilian business leaders in Sao Paulo in May 2012. Last week, while Garcia was in the Uruguayan embassy, Peruvian prosecutors opened a new investigation into irregularities in another public contract. Prosecutors allege that Garcia and 21 other officials conspired to enable Dutch company ATM Terminals to win a 2011 concession to operate a terminal at the port of Callao, near Lima.Jirnexus existing investor, SBI Group, also participated in the round

2018.05  Jirnexu Founders -(L)C. Vivier, J. Wong, J. Barnes, L. Ooi, H. Liew, YT Siew

Malaysian fintech startup Jirnexu has announced that it has raised a US$10 million Series B follow-on investment led by global consumer crediting reporting agency Experian and existing investor Japan-based SBI Group.

In May this year, the company had clinched a US$11 million Series B funding led by SBI, with participation from SIG Asia Investments.

Experian said that the investment in Jirnexu is in line with the companys strategy to bring financial inclusion to vast numbers of underserved consumers in Asia.

In Asia, more than 1 billion people still have no access to formal financial services  meaning no formal employment, no bank account and no meaningful ability to engage in commerce online or offline, said Ben Elliott, CEO Asia Pacific, Experian.

By working with like-minded partners who share the same values and mission in driving financial access, we have the opportunity to connect more consumers in the region with financial products that better suit their needs, he added.

Experians vision is exemplified by the other investments it has made in similar fintech companies in the region. Last year, it led a US$30 million round in India-based credit marketplace BankBazaar, and this year, it led a US$28 million Series C round in Indonesian financial marketplace C88.

Yuen Tuck Siew, Co-founder and CEO of Jirnexu, said he will use the newly-raised investment to upgrade its financial products comparison website RinggitPlus.

[We will] better match consumers with the right product and bank or lender based on their credit score, [and also] improve access to credit for consumers who are not currently covered or served by existing credit scores or banks, he said.

RinggitPlus will be launching a financial eligibility matching service based on its own credit scoring system.

Jirnexu had previously already stated its intentions to expand its product capabilities in its May funding round when it said it will develop consumer digital identification and eKYC (know-your-customer) automation.

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What is interesting now is Jirnexus expansion into the insurtech space. With the approval of the Central Bank of Malaysia, RinggitPlus will provide a marketplace for Malaysians to research, compare and select a motor, travel, term and medical insurance plan.

Jirnexu will also enhance its chatbot  which currently only caters to banking products  to enable customers to manage their insurance policies via its service.

With Experian on board as a financial and strategic partner, Jirnexu will also be able to tap into its marketplaces solutions, which include demand generation, analytics and digital on-boarding technologies.

Both the investment and partnership will provide Jirnexus existing financial marketplaces with improved performance in demand generation, better eligibility matching through analytics and the ability to deliver more seamless consumer experiences, said Elliott.

This will further enable banks, insurance companies and service providers to think mobile-first and enhance interactions with their consumers and lenders.

Founded in 2012, Jirnexu today has doubled in size, growing from 100 employees in January 2018 to almost 200 employees by the end of the year.

It will also grow client contracts 70 per cent Year-on-Year in 2018 with global and regional FIs such as Citibank, HSBC, Standard Chartered, UOB, Zurich and Allianz as well as local FIs such as RHB, CIMB, Public Bank and Etiqa.

The post Experian leads US$10M funding in Malaysian fintech firm Jirnexu appeared first on e27.A Soyuz spacecraft carrying Russian, American and Canadian astronauts arrived at the International Space Station on Monday, following the first manned launch since a failed launch in October. Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, Anne McClain of NASA and David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency blasted off from Kazakhstan's Baikonur Cosmodrome earlier in the day. They successfully docked at the ISS on schedule at 1736 GMT to begin an expected six and a half months aboard the ISS, the Russian Roscosmos space agency said via Twitter. It was the first manned voyage for the Soviet-era Soyuz since October 11, when a rocket carrying Russia's Aleksey Ovchinin and US astronaut Nick Hague failed just minutes after blast-off, forcing the pair to make a harrowing emergency landing. They escaped unharmed but the failed launch -- the first such incident in Russia's post-Soviet history -- raised concerns about the state of the Soyuz programme. The Soyuz is the only means of reaching the ISS since the United States retired the space shuttle in 2011. Kononenko, McClain and Saint-Jacques smiled and gave thumbs up to the cheering crowd including relatives as they ascended into the Soyuz capsule on Monday morning. Minutes after take off, Roscosmos said the capsule was in orbit. NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine meanwhile thanked the US and Russian teams "for their dedication to making this launch a success". - Risk 'part of our profession' - In a successful rehearsal for Monday's flight, a Soyuz cargo vessel took off on November 16 from Baikonur and delivered several tonnes of food, fuel and supplies to the ISS. Russia said last month the October launch had failed because of a sensor damaged during assembly at the Baikonur cosmodrome, but insisted the spacecraft remained reliable. While flight commander Kononenko is beginning his fourth mission to add to an impressive 533 days in space, both Saint-Jacques and McClain are making their maiden trip. Crew commander Kononenko, 54, said during a press conference on the eve of the launch that "risk is part of our profession". But he added that his team "absolutely" trusted those who had prepared for the flight. European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst, NASA's Serena Aunon-Chancellor and Sergei Prokopyev of Roscosmos were set to greet the trio on arrival at the ISS. Veteran Kononenko said the crew would conduct a spacewalk on December 11 as part of an investigation into a mysterious hole that has caused an air leak on the ISS. While on board, Saint-Jacques will be involved in an experiment called "At Home in Space" which "takes a closer look at how crew members adapt to living with each other by creating a shared culture," according to the Canadian Space Agency. Among the dozens of other experiments the new crew members will take part in is one that will use worms to examine muscle loss in space, led by British scientists. The experiment could pave the way to new treatments for muscular conditions for people on Earth, according to the UK Space Agency. - 'Spacewalking like rugby' - McClain, 39, served in Iraq and has represented the United States in women's rugby. She has said that training to spacewalk resembled the sport since it demands "grit, toughness, mental focus, and more". Russia-US cooperation in space has remained one of the few areas not affected by a crisis in ties between the former Cold War enemies. But comments by the combative chief of the Russian space agency, Dmitry Rogozin, have raised eyebrows. He recently joked Russia would send a mission to the Moon to "verify" whether or not NASA lunar landings ever took place. In recent years Russia's debt-laden space industry has suffered a number of mishaps including the loss of cargo spacecraft and satellites. At a press conference following the successful docking, Rogozin announced March 1, 2019, as the date for the next manned launch to the ISS. He said Ovchinin and Hague would be on board, along with NASA's Christina Koch.Anti-theft locks fail to stop fuel theft

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has started an investigation into the matter of oil theft involving a petroleum tanker that was equipped with an advanced locking system.Former Hong Kong undersecretary for home affairs Florence Hui Hiu-fai, tipped in 2012 to become the citys first culture minister, died on Monday morning aged 44. It was understood she had been suffering from breast cancer and died due to complications from the disease.

Hui, a graduate of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, was appointed undersecretary in 2008 and reappointed in 2012. She left the government last year after a nine-year stint.

Before her public service she was head of business planning and development for northeast Asia at Standard Chartered Bank. During her career in finance she also served as secretary of the Hong Kong Association of Banks.

In 2012 Hui was tipped to become the minister for a new culture bureau proposed by then incoming Hong Kong leader Leung Chun-ying.

Leung had promised in his election manifesto to set up the bureau to promote the development of arts and culture. But his plan failed after filibustering by pan-democrat lawmakers.

In March this year, Hui was appointed a member of the board for the Hong Kong Palace Museum.

Current Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor extended her deepest condolences to Huis family and said she was deeply saddened by her passing away at such a young age.

Hui was dedicated to serving the Hong Kong community, the citys chief executive said. She was sincere and passionate about arts and culture and attached great importance to communication with the industry, earning the respect of those who worked with her both inside and outside the government.

The citys No 2 official, Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung Kin-chung, said he was shocked and saddened at Huis death and had also sent his condolences.

We were like a family in the time we worked together. Florence was a really easy-going and modest person, and as we all know, she was so amiable and dedicated to her work, Cheung said. This is a huge loss.

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Secretary for Home Affairs Lau Kong-wah said: Florence made an immense contribution during her service at the Home Affairs Bureau. Serving with zeal, she performed brilliantly while treating fellow colleagues in a friendly manner. The bureau is deeply saddened at her passing, and she will be remembered fondly.

Lawmaker Ma Fung-kwok, who represents the citys sports, performing arts, culture and publication sector, remembered Hui as friendly and gentle, and said she was always willing to listen.

I feel sad because she was still young, Ma said. When she worked as an undersecretary, she was very responsible.

Breakthrough drug offers hope of longer life to brain cancer patients

Hui was a leading supporter of a campaign to set up an institute inside a historic building in the Mid-Levels in honour of late Chinese scholar Nan Huai-chin, who helped broker talks between mainland China and Taiwan in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

By May this year the initiative had raised HK$20 million (US$2.55 million) towards the cause.

Liza Wang Ming-chun, chairwoman of the Chinese Artists Association of Hong Kong, said Hui had been very proactive in communications with her organisation on developing Cantonese opera.

Its such a pity that the culture bureau didnt materialise, Wang said.

Hui had been a responsible and capable official who sacrificed a great deal of private time for her work, Wang added.

Cultural critic Oliver Chou said: She was one of the few officials who knew culture, high and low, and made unprepared speeches with grace and modesty.

During her home affairs years, she was probably the only official I knew of who facilitated support for many local arts groups, and the absence of a cultural office did not affect her efforts to help the needy.

In a statement issued late on Monday night, Huis family expressed gratitude to those paying tribute.

Hiu-fai left us peacefully this morning. While we feel sad at her passing, lets remember her joyful life, they said.

Her gentle character and willingness to help others will always be on our minds.

Hui is survived by her husband and two daughters.

This article Former Hong Kong undersecretary for home affairs Florence Hui Hiu-fai dies at 44 first appeared on South China Morning Post

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018.Great Wall Motor looks towards Europe with new electric vehicle brand - the Ora

Great Wall Motor, the mainlands largest maker of sport-utility vehicles (SUVs), plans to make inroads into Europe with its electric vehicles in 2020, helped by a new brand expected to bolster its growth --known as Ora.

Ning Shuyong, vice-president of the Baoding-based vehicle maker, said Great Wall had begun studying ways to build out its global distribution system for electric vehicles with the ultimate goal of selling to Europe, part of the companys efforts to go global.

The group unveiled in September the first model by Ora, the iQ crossover. The company has since secured orders for more than 10,000 iQs, which have a range of 360 kilometres between charges, according Ning.

We have the vision to become a market leader in the electric vehicles segment in China, said Ning, who is also general manager of Ora. Our cars are designed and built in compliance with international standards and we definitely set our sights on international markets including Europe.

Trumps trade war tariffs will thwart Chinese carmakers dreams of breaking America, analysts say

Ora will unveil its new model R1, a four-seat mini electric vehicle with a range of up to 350km in mid December.

The R1, which will have a sticker price of about 110,000 yuan (US$15,817), takes on Chery Automobile Companys Ant mini and JAC Motors iEV6 on the mainland. Central and local government subsidies are expected to offset the price to consumers by as much as 50,000 yuan.

Small electric vehicles make up the largest share of Chinas new-energy vehicle market, with sales of 400,000 units a year.

Ning said a market leader in this segment would need to sell about 100,000 units a year.

He would not disclose whether Great Wall would make its Ora vehicles as part of a joint venture with BMW.

In July, Great Wall agreed with BMW, to form a 50-50 venture, Spotlight Automotive, to produce electric vehicles with each party contributing half of the total 5.1 billion yuan investment.

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Under the Made in China 2025 industrial strategy, new-energy vehicles is one of the 10 key sectors that Beijing hopes domestic players can catch up with leading global brands and become self-sufficient.

The central government wants domestic carmakers to produce 3 million electric vehicles a year.

China is the worlds largest new-energy vehicle market with sales of 777,000 units in 2017, up 53 per cent on year.

Unable to compete with premium brands like Tesla, Chinese carmakers are vying for a growing share of the market for small electric vehicles, if they can make their products affordable, said Qian Kang, a Zhejinag-based entrepreneur in the car component business. After all, large production volume can effectively help carmakers reduce manufacturing costs.

Ning said Great Wall planned to have am annual electric vehicle capacity of 450,000 units a year.

Chinas once buoyant auto market hit a speed bump this year as sales in October dropped 11.6 per cent from a year earlier.

Chinas once-buoyant auto sales hits a blip, likely to see the first quarterly decline in 26 years

Chinas carmakers are on track to report their first-ever decline in annual sales since 1992.

Faced with downbeat domestic sales, Chinas automakers are looking to ramp up exports to help take up the demand slack.

Mainland carmakers exported 891,000 vehicles in 2017, reflecting a rise of 25 per cent from the previous year, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers.

In August, Great Wall reported earnings of 3.7 billion yuan for the first half, up 53 per cent from the same period a year earlier.

Great Walls Hong Kong traded shares ended at HK$5 on Friday, sliding 0.4 per cent for the session, bringing its cumulative decline since the start of the year to 42.8 per cent.

This article Great Wall Motor looks towards Europe with new electric vehicle brand - the Ora first appeared on South China Morning Post

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018.Kuala Lumpur City Council (DBKL) has officially given the go-ahead for an anti-ICERD protest planned along Jalan Raja, in the afternoon, on Saturday, December 8. Mayor Nor Hisham Ahmad Dahlan has said that the OK was given on the basis that the gather was to be conducted peacefully.

For those of us in need of a refresher, in September, Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad told a UN General Assembly that his Pakatan Harapan government would ratify the what remained of the UNs International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD).

However, for many groups, including protest organizers Ummah and Sekretariat Kedaulatan Negara, Malay-Muslim NGOs, and for both opposition parties PAS and UMNO, the pledge to end racial discrimination became a hot button issue, where some saw a gateway to erode policies that favor Malaysias majority Malay population. An affirmative action policy for 60% of the population was adopted after deadly race riots in the 1960s, and is protected by the countrys constitution.

After much ado, the PH government announced that they would, in fact, not be ratifying ICERD, but that hasnt stopped the anti-ICERD crew, who quite possibly have nothing better to do on a Saturday afternoon than march on the premise of protesting something that isnt actually happening. Organizers have since said that it will be a celebration [Editors Note: Of the status quo?].

Tawfiq Ismail, a former UMNO MP and son of a former deputy PM, went on the record with Free Malaysia Today stating that he did not agree with the partys anti-ICERD stance, reminding everyone that Malay rights are already protected. It does not make any difference to the rights of the Malays if ICERD is ratified.

Reason, logic, and the rule of law went unheeded, and the sitting government backtracked on their UN promise last week. Malaysia will now join 14 other luminary countries in not having signed on to ICERD, including North Korea, Myanmar and South Sudan.

This article, Mayor gives approval for anti-ICERD protest, slash celebration on Saturday, originally appeared on Coconuts, Asia's leading alternative media company. For more Coconuts stories, you can download our app, sign up for our newsletters, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.A UN envoy is set to host an "initial round-table" in Geneva this week between Morocco and the Polisario Front in a bid to kick-start dialogue on the disputed Western Sahara region. "It is time to open a new chapter in the political process", said UN envoy Horst Koehler in an October invitation letter. Six years after direct talks broke down, the meeting is expected to take place on Wednesday and Thursday, with neighbouring Algeria and Mauritania also attending. A former Spanish colony, phosphate-rich Western Sahara sits on the western edge of the vast eponymous desert, stretching around 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) along the fish-abundant Atlantic coastline. When Spain withdrew from the North African territory in 1975, Rabat sent thousands of people across the border and claimed it was an integral part of Morocco. The following year the Polisario Front declared Western Sahara the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), with support from Algeria and Libya, and demanded a referendum on self-determination to resolve the dispute. But as the stalemate continued, Morocco built razor-wire-topped concentric sand walls in the desert that still ring 80 percent of the territory it controls. A 1991 ceasefire saw the UN deploy a peacekeeping mission which has perpetuated the line of control, but the international community has long intended a referendum be held to decide the territory's status. Rabat currently rejects any vote in which independence is an option, arguing that only granting autonomy is on the table and that this is necessary for regional security. - Living in limbo - Awaiting a settlement, between 100,000 and 200,000 refugees live precariously in camps in western Algeria, near the city of Tindouf. The last round of direct talks were launched by the UN in 2007 but got bogged down 2012, as the opposing sides proved unable to compromise over the territory's status and the proposed referendum. Leading the diplomatic efforts since 2017, Koehler -- a former president of Germany -- has already met the key protagonists several times, albeit separately. His efforts have paved the way for the Polisario, Morocco, Algeria and Mauritania to sit at the same table, even if the format has not been unanimously agreed. Algeria wants to participate only as an "observer country", but Rabat considers it a "stakeholder" in the discussions, since Algiers is the Polisario's main backer. A UN briefing note says the Geneva meeting represents "a first step... with the aim of reaching a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution which will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara". But the itinerary remains vague, outlining the delegations will take "stock of recent developments, address regional issues, and discuss the next steps in the political process on Western Sahara". According to one diplomatic source, the plan is not to put too much pressure on this first meeting. Instead, it should be considered more of a "warming up" exercise aimed at "breaking the ice", especially given still-poor relations between Rabat and Algiers. The situation remains "generally calm" along the line of control, despite tensions that resurfaced in early 2018, according to a UN report. For the Polisario, a recent reduction in the UN peacekeepers' mandate from 12 months to six months is part of a "dynamic" created by Koehler's appointment. The UN Security Council adopted a US-drafted resolution in October to renew the peacekeeping mission and throw its weight behind the planned talks. But ahead of the Geneva meeting, all sides are sticking to their positions, even as they signal their goodwill. While supporting a "durable" political solution marked by a "spirit of compromise", King Mohammed VI said in a recent speech that Morocco will not yield on its "territorial integrity", including control over Western Sahara. Key Polisario official Mhamed Khadad told AFP ahead of attending the Geneva talks "everything can be negotiated except the inalienable and imprescriptible right of our people to self-determination." Reflecting its status as the Polisario's main supporter, Algeria likewise speaks of this "inalienable and imprescriptible" right. In a recent official statement, Algiers said it would head to Geneva favouring "frank and fair" direct negotiations between the Polisario and Morocco aimed at building a definitive solution.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will travel to Brussels on Monday, his office said, for a meeting with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Netanyahu's office said the meeting had been set last week, but provided few other details. "The two will discuss regional developments," a statement from Netanyahu's office said, noting he will be accompanied by the head of Israeli spy agency Mossad, the head of his national security council and his military secretary. He was expected to leave Israel at around midday and meet this evening with Pompeo, who will be in Brussels for a NATO meeting of foreign ministers on Tuesday. Netanyahu's trip comes a day after police recommended indicting him and his wife Sara for bribery and other offences, the third such move against him in recent months. The attorney general must now decide whether to indict Netanyahu, who rejects the accusations against him in all three cases. Israel and the United States have worked closely on a range of issues, particularly regarding Iran. Both have warned of Iran's presence in Syria, which neighbours Israel. Netanyahu has pledged to stop arch foe Iran from entrenching itself militarily in Syria and to keep it from transferring advanced weapons to Hezbollah in Lebanon. President Donald Trump has pledged his unwavering support for Israel and has pushed ahead with controversial policies such as moving the US embassy to Jerusalem.The New York Police Department on December 3 appealed to the public for help identifying a man who punched a Hasidic Jewish man in the back of the head in north Brooklyn on November 30 before fleeing on foot.

The attack occurred five days after a nine-year-old Jewish boy was repeatedly punched in the face just a block away, according to local media citing police.

The suspect in the November 30 attack was described by police as a Hispanic male between 30 and 35 years old wearing a gray hooded sweater and dark jeans. He was estimated to be 510" and weigh 250 lbs. Credit: NYPD via StoryfulConstitutional bodies, PMs Office locked in a dispute

Four constitutional bodies and the Prime Ministers Office are embroiled in a dispute after the latter sought details of their unfinished tasks within 15 days.A bear standing 1.3 metres (4.2 feet) tall and weighing an estimated 50 kilos (110 pounds) attacked and killed a Japanese man who was found inside the animal's cage, police said Monday. Neighbours heard Soichiro Mori, 56, screaming for help at a house northeast of Tokyo on Sunday morning, according to a police spokesman. "When the neighbour went to the house, an injured person was found in the cage," the spokesman told AFP. The 15-year-old Asian black bear was owned by a 70-year-old man who kept the animal in a cage in his house. According to public broadcaster NHK, Mori was the bear's caretaker who had been hired by its owner. Mori was rushed to hospital but pronounced dead later Sunday, the police spokesman said. The owner, who has not been named, had an official permit to keep the bear, which is legal in Japan.The president of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, denied having died and been replaced by a clone while speaking during a visit to Poland on December 2 for a climate change summit.

Buhari spent five months in the UK being treated for a undisclosed illness in February, 2016, the Guardian reported.

Buhari said that rumors he had died and been replaced by a clone or lookalike from Sudan, called Jubril, were put to both him and his vice president.

Buhari arrived in Krakow, Poland, on December 2, ahead of the 24th session of the Conference of the Parties under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. Credit: Muhammadu Buhari via StoryfulAFP News

A health coach from Antigua and Barbuda has won two tickets worth almost $1 million to be among Virgin Galactic's first space tourists -- and plans to take the trip of a lifetime with her teenage daughter.In three weeks, Hong Kongs town planners will scrutinise a huge private housing project in Sai Kung where a developer is seeking to double the number of units to 9,500 flats  more than the government could contribute last year in terms of land supply for such purposes.

The Shap Sze Heung development along Sai Sha Road triggered a debate on land supply after it was reported last November that the government reached a record HK$15.9 billion (US$2 billion) deal with developer Sun Hung Kai Properties to convert farmland for housing.

The project, and others by the private sector involving farmland conversion or redevelopment, amounted to 66 per cent of the annual total land supply for 25,500 private flats last year.

In the past, government-controlled land sources, including land sales, projects along rail lines and those under the Urban Renewal Authority, accounted for more than 80 per cent of the total number of private flats projected each year.

Some people have been alarmed in recent years by what they saw as a reliance on developers for land to build private homes. Concerns centre on companies holding too much land in a space-starved city, in turn allowing them excessive power over the private market.

In lieu of developers dominating supply and sitting on some 1,000 hectares of agricultural land, critics have called for authorities to regain control by building up a land reserve through reclamation. Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor has hailed reclamation as an unavoidable option.

A government-appointed task force on land supply is expected to address the matter in a final report due later this month. All eyes are on what it will reveal about public views on reclamation  particularly on the creation of a massive artificial land mass off Lantau Island  among other options.

Dubbed the Lantau Tomorrow Vision by Lam, the 1,700-hectare development is billed as a new economic and residential hub for Hong Kong.

Story continues

Think tank Our Hong Kong Foundation, which champions the project and had in August floated a similar idea, argued the government should seize back control from developers. The foundations research also stated land supply was increasingly concentrated in the hands of a few major players.

The group pointed out that this was worrying because when the government no longer had enough land to sell and had to rely on developers, supply would drop, driving up prices, and the timetable for available homes would become uncertain.

Developers then had the power to decide when they wanted to develop their reserves, and it could take up to a decade to turn damaged farmland, often unconnected to roads and amenities, into sites ready for development.

Lee Wing-tat, a former lawmaker who now leads research group Land Watch, agreed there might be a change in power between the government and developers if authorities could fall back on a land bank.

Now developers know the government doesnt have many bullets in its pocket, Lee said. They can be difficult to deal with in negotiations, and the process could drag on, slowing down supply.

Now developers know the government doesnt have many bullets in its pocket

Lee Wing-tat, Land Watch

But Lau Chun-kong, chairman of the Institute of Surveyors land policy panel, said the balance between the government and developers over land supply last year was uncommon because a massive project like Shap Sze Heung was rare.

The next project of this scale would be Yau Tong Bay, which would yield 6,000 homes on the former industrial site, but after that the market would have to wait for some years for another boom of this nature from the private sector, Lau added.

Ling Kar-kan, who retired as director of planning in 2016, agreed on the need for the government to build a land bank through reclamation and redeveloping brownfield sites or damaged agricultural plots.

We should not be so short-sighted as to focus on real estate only, Ling said. The government also needs to make sure enough land is provided for different policy needs. The market will not take the initiative to address this.

He added that with a land reserve, authorities could effectively regulate operators of much-needed facilities such as hospitals, retirement homes and international schools by inserting conditions into the land grants.

An official planning study, Hong Kong 2030+, has identified government, institution and community (GIC) zones as the most pressing land use in the coming three decades.

The market will not take the initiative to address [land for policy needs]

Ling Kar-kan, former city planning chief

The shortage of GIC sites  720 hectares  is even higher than the 230-hectare housing shortfall. Even then, officials have been criticised for underestimating demand, and adjustments are being made.

Stewart Leung Chi-kin, chairman of the Real Estate Developers Association executive committee, said developers supported reclamation. The government can sell land more cheaply when it has plenty. Thats good for peoples livelihood, he said.

But, Land Watchs Lee said reclamation should not be seen as the only option. Authorities could invoke the Lands Resumption Ordinance to take back farmland from developers.

The resumption of land is not as much of a legal trouble as officials have said, he added, citing the administrations reply to a question filed by a lawmaker this year.

Since 1997, the government has invoked the ordinance to resume private land for 150 projects, of which 70 projects were for public housing, urban redevelopment and new towns. Only eight judicial review cases were lodged by landowners, with cases spending between one month and 12 months in court.

Peter Cookson Smith, an urban planner who has 40 years of experience in Hong Kong, said massive reclamation was not necessary or desirable because of a slowdown in population growth.

He said resources should be focused on committing to, and pushing ahead with, new town projects in the New Territories, which would adequately address the citys thirst for land.

This article Is reclamation the way to regain control of Hong Kongs land supply from developers? first appeared on South China Morning Post

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018.The US-led coalition against the Islamic State group said Monday it killed a senior jihadist involved in the executions of an American aid worker and other Western hostages. Abu al-Umarayn was accused of involvement in the November 2014 beheading of Peter Kassig, a former US ranger who was doing volunteer humanitarian work when captured in 2013. "He was killed and more information will be available after a full assessment," Sean Ryan, spokesman for the US-led coalition, said in a statement issued after the Sunday strikes. "Al Umarayn had given indications of posing an imminent threat to coalition forces and he was involved in the killing of American citizen and former US Army Ranger, Peter Kassig," he said. Ryan said the jihadist had also been involved in the execution of several other prisoners. It is the first time the coalition, which has been hunting down IS fighters in Iraq and Syria since 2014, has announced the killing of a jihadist leader linked to Kassig's death. At the time of the execution, IS released a video showing Kassig's severed head but did not publish footage of the decapitation, as it had done for other hostages. Syria's official SANA news agency had earlier Sunday accused the US-led coalition of firing on Syrian army positions in remote eastern regions. - Regime targeted? - "The American coalition forces launched around 8:00 pm (1800 GMT) this evening several missiles against some positions of our forces in the Ghorab mountains south of Sukhna," it said. Quoting a military source, it said the bombardment had caused only material damage. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said coalition forces fired "more than 14 missiles" at a Syrian army convoy as it was passing through the desert. "The group was lost in the middle of the desert around 35 kilometres from the Al-Tanf base", the Observatory's director Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP. The United States often uses this base to launch its strikes against IS jihadists. Ryan, the coalition spokesman, denied any strikes targeted the Syrian army. "False, the strikes were as the report stated and directed at ISIS," he said, using another acronym for the jihadist organisation. Kassig founded a humanitarian organisation in 2012 that trained some 150 civilians to provide medical aid to people in Syria. His group also gave food, cooking supplies, clothing and medicine to the needy. He took the name Abdul Rahman after converting to Islam. His execution was part of a gruesome series of Western hostage beheadings that IS filmed and published to shock the world as it attempted to expand across the region. - 2014 executions - Before Kassig's decapitation, which IS announced on November 16, four other hostages were executed by IS: - British aid worker Alan Henning (video released on October 3) - British aid worker David Haines (video released on September 13) - US journalist Steven Sotloff (video released on September 2) - US journalist James Foley (video released on August 19) Another hostage held at the time and whose execution was threatened was British journalist John Cantlie. He later appeared in videos in which he uttered IS propaganda but, more than six years after his kidnapping, his fate remains unclear. The leader of the cell which was responsible for the executions and became known as "The Beatles" was believed to be Mohammed Emwazi, a British jihadist nicknamed "Jihadi John" who was killed in a drone strike in 2015. After expanding to control a self-styled "caliphate" straddling Syria and Iraq which was larger than Britain, IS suffered a string of military setbacks. It has virtually no fixed positions left in Iraq and is now defending a few pockets in desert areas of Syria, including the region where Sunday's strikes were carried out. The other is the jihadists' main active front in the Hajin area of Deir Ezzor province, where coalition-backed Kurdish-led fighters have been struggling to flush out a group of jihadists making a fierce last stand. The coalition has estimated around 2,000 jihadists remain inside that pocket. The international alliance, as well as the Syrian government and its Russian backers, have all repeatedly vowed to carry on the fight until achieving a full victory over IS. But analysts have warned that fully eradicating the jihadists from those desert hideouts, where the state has a very limited footprint, could prove almost impossible.Tencent Holdings is pushing ahead with efforts to sign up schools to use its all-in-one WeChat app as part of a broader shift by the company to go beyond consumers and serve more institutions.

Since WeChat started partnering with public schools and private training centres in 2014, students have been to make purchases at canteens, check test scores and communicate in group chats with their peers, parents and teachers using the app's multiple functions.

Tencent revamped its organisation structure on the eve of its 20th anniversary this year to align the company to compete for the industrial internet. In an open letter last month, chairman Pony Ma Huateng laid out the rationale for the restructuring, saying that digitisation of the economy meant the battle for the internet has moved on from consumers to industry.

WeChat Pay has been a tool to connect people, and is now increasingly connecting industries under the companys new direction to embrace the industrial internet. Lei Maofeng, vice-general manager of WeChat Pay, said in an interview at the Fortune Global Tech Forum 2018 in Guangzhou.

Tencent partners with Line in Japan on mobile payments

As a tool we do not pick certain industries to serve, but to approach them all and those industries with more advanced digital systems, such as retail, were among the first to integrate better with WeChat, Lei said.

Education is among the industries that WeChat is tapping to deploy artificial intelligence tools, with voice and image recognition the most commonly used technology, Lei said.

WeChat, known as Weixin on the mainland, is the countrys dominant messaging app, while it also serves as an all-in-one platform for social networking, mobile payments, ride hailing, food delivery and more. The app has more than over 1 billion monthly active users.

Some 800 million users have linked their bank accounts or credit cards for the apps payment service and usage is still growing, according to WeChat.

Story continues

In the third quarter of 2018, the average daily transaction volume increased by more than 50 per cent year-on-year.

Tencents WeChat Pay competes with Alibaba Group Holding affiliate Ant Financial Services' Alipay. Together, the two payment platforms account for over 90 per cent of Chinas domestic mobile payments market. Alibaba owns the South China Morning Post.

WeChat Pay tests new payment products in bid to catch up with Alipay

WeChat now handles mobile payment processing across 70 to 80 per cent of Chinas universities daily, according to Lei.

Other novel applications that involve mobile payment include picking up and sending packages with unmanned lockers, are gaining popularity among users.

We see this trend in mobile payment use cases that our users are showing stronger interest in experimenting new scenarios with an element of technology, Lei said.

This article Tencents WeChat to deploy AI tools in education in push into industrial internet first appeared on South China Morning Post

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018.Count them in

When the 2011 census was being conducted, one of the major issues faced by persons with disabilities was the lack of sensitivity from the enumerators. Shudarson Subedi,Additionally, Siri Ventures has made over US$9.2 million investment in US-based venture capital firm Fifth Wall Ventures

Siri Ventures CTO Jirapat Janjerdsak

Siri Ventures, a corporate VC firm formed by Sansiri Public Company and Siam Commercial Bank in Thailand, has announced investments in two Singapore-based startups  Techmetics and Neuron.

Techmetics offers service robotics solutions to various industries such as hospitality, healthcare and manufacturing sectors. Its products are currently available in the US, Australia, the UAE, Singapore and Thailand.

For the first time in Thailand, Sansiri has adopted Sandee robots in The Monument Sanampao project. Not only in Thailand, other countries around the world also give a good feedback to Techmeticss delivery robots. Nowadays, Techmetics opens more branches in the US and develops service robots to serve leading hotels such as Marriott in Silicon Valley, Yotel New York and Miami as well as hospitals in Australia and Taiwan. It also plans to expand its branches into Canada and Europe next year, said Jirapat Janjerdsak, CTO of Siri Ventures.

Also Read: Grab in talks to invest US$100M in Indias OYO

Neuron is an e-mobility technology company. Founded in 2016, Neuron operates an electric scooter sharing system with an innovative dock optional service model with an aim to bring benefits to both consumers as well as city governments. Neuron is a developer of e-scooter, which has implemented in Thai property projects for the first time. Now it is on trial at Habito in T77 community and D Condo project in Chiang Mai, he added.

Additionally, Siri Ventures has disclosed over 300 million baht (US$9.2 million) investment in Fifth Wall Ventures, a US-based VC fund. Fifth Wall is focussed on proptech worldwide, which will help Siri Ventures discover potential proptech startups in a faster pace.

Since its inception in 2017, Siri Ventures has invested in startups, funds of funds and R&D, in partnership with other organisations. In 2019, Siri plans to kick off its proptech sandbox and has allocated 600 million baht (US$18.4 million) to scale up its investment in startups by focusing more on Series A rounds and larger.

Story continues

The VC firm has also promoted the startup ecosystem through the partnership with 12 Thai and global technology partners. In 2018, Siri Ventures joined hands with Startup Thailand, Microsoft Thailand, dtac accelerate, Hubba Thailand and Unicef.

Recently, Siri co-invested with China Renaissance in Chinas giant fund Hua Xing. Hua Xing has more than 20 unicorns in the portfolio, which will help Siri Ventures link with high potential proptech startups in China faster.

The post Thai VC firm Siri Ventures invests in Singapore startups Techmetics, Neuron appeared first on e27.SANAA (Reuters) - Authorities in the Houthi-held Yemeni capital Sanaa are sterilizing water supplies at wells, distribution networks and houses to help stem the world's worst outbreak of cholera.

Nearly four years of war between a Saudi-led coalition and the Iranian-aligned Houthi group have crippled healthcare and sanitation systems in Yemen, where some 1.2 million suspected cholera cases have been reported since 2017, with 2,515 deaths.

The World Health Organization (WHO) warned in October that the outbreak is accelerating again with roughly 10,000 suspected cases now reported per week, double the average rate for the first eight months of 2018.

Most cases have been reported in areas held by the Houthi movement, which controls most population centres after ousting the internationally recognized government from Sanaa in 2014.

"We receive information of reported cases of cholera from the Ministry of Health, then the team sterilises the house and 20 houses around it," Nabeel Abdullah al-Wazeer, the Houthis' minister of water, told Reuters in Sanaa.

"We worked from house to house and on sterilising water wells. We also worked on bus-mounted tanks, which transport water in the private sector to the citizens, as well as sterilizing local institutions which distribute water."

Adel Moawada, director general of technical affairs at Sanaa's main water sanitation plant, said there are currently 20 automated chlorination units installed in wells directly linked to the capital's water distribution network.

Cholera, which is spread by consuming contaminated food or water, is a diarrheal disease and can kill within hours. While previous outbreaks may have helped build immunity in the population, other diseases and widespread malnutrition can weaken resilience.

The United Nations says about 14 million people, or half of Yemen's population, could soon face famine. Some 1.8 million children are malnourished, according to UNICEF.

Story continues

Children account for 30 percent of cholera infections.

Pediatrician Mohammed Abdulmughni administers intravenous fluids to children in WHO tents in Sanaa. Their beds rest on gravel and flies circle their faces.

"With winter's arrival we expected the numbers would decrease, yet the cases have been coming in at the same pace," he said. "We expected positive (diagnoses) cases to decrease but the cases remain high."

If caught early, acute diarrhea can be treated with oral hydration salts, but more severe cases require intravenous fluids and antibiotics.

More than 250,000 cases of cholera have been recorded in Yemen since the beginning of 2018, with 358 associated deaths, UNICEF representative Meritxell Relano told Reuters.

"We have prevented an outbreak at the scale of 2017," Relano said. "But the risk is still there."

(Reporting by Reuters team in Yemen, additional reporting by Julie Carriat in Paris; Writing by Tuqa Khalid; Editing by Ghaida Ghantous and Raissa Kasolowsky)Fight to reform health, education still on: Dr KC

Senior Orthopedic Surgeon at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital Dr Govinda KC said his battle to reform the health and education sectors in remote Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces was still on.2018 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming Digest #48

Posted on 2 December 2018 by John Hartz

Story of the Week... Toon of the Week... Coming Soon on SkS... Poster of the Week... SkS Week in Review...

Story of the Week...

G20 told crucial COP24 climate change conference 'must succeed': Guterres

UN News/Natalia Montagna: Delegates to the G20 summit have gathered in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (30 November 2018)

During press briefings at the beginning of the G20 meeting of industrialized nations in Buenos Aires, UN Secretary Antonio Guterres described the event as an essential forum, citing a lack of confidence and high level of confrontation within the international community.

As well as mistrust between nations, and the risk of confrontation and escalation, Mr, Guterres said that there was a lack of trust between peoples in general and institutions everywhere, both at a national level  in the form of governments and parliaments  and internationally; because globalization has divided the world into winners and losers.

Those left out, he said, feel angry, that feel frustrated, that many timesthere was not enough effort from their government, or from international organizations like the UN, in order to attend their problems, to attend their difficulties in the rustbelts of this world. I think it is very important to come together, the different countries around the world, and to have a common strategy for a fair globalization, which means a globalization that leaves no one behind.

For this reason, the worlds largest economies, such as the G20 group, must support the UNs 2030 Agenda for sustainable development, said the UN chief, which was developed precisely to ensure a fair globalization and aims to eradicate poverty and address a wide range of governance problems worldwide.

Mr. Guterres also pointed out that this years G20 meeting is important because it precedes the COP24 climate change conference taking place in Katowice, Poland from 3 December, at which the Work Programme or rule book of the 2015 Paris Agreement  when practically all countries signed up to a pledge to ensure global temperatures do not rise by more than 2 degrees before the end of this century is expected to be agreed.

Addressing the media on Friday, the Secretary-General said that Katowice must succeed. We need to build in Katowice the momentum that is necessary for an increased ambition to be shown by the international communitywhen in 2020 the commitments made in Paris will be renewed in order to make sure that we are able to bring the increase of temperature in the world until the end of the century to clearly below 2 degrees and as close as possible to 1.5 degrees.

Political will is lacking, said the UN chief. That is why its so important to come here and to express to political leaders how important it is for everybody to understand that this is a make it or break it moment in relation to guaranteeing that the Paris Agreement is implemented."

G20 told crucial COP24 climate change conference 'must succeed': Guterres, UN News, Nov 30, 2018

Toon of the Week...

Coming Soon on SkS...

SkS Analogy 16 - Arctic ice, sailboat keels, and wild weather (Evan)

(Evan) Is Methane Worse than CO2?? (Adam Levy)

(Adam Levy) New findings on ocean warming: 5 questions answered (Scott Denning)

(Scott Denning) The Security & Sustainability Guide (John Hartz)

(John Hartz) New research this week (Ari)

(Ari) 2018 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #49 (John Hartz)

(John Hartz) 2018 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming Digest #49 (John Hartz)

Poster of the Week...

SkS Week in Review...COP24: UN climate change conference, whats at stake and what you need to know

Posted on 2 December 2018 by John Hartz

Reprint of article originally posted on UN NEWS on Nov 29, 2018. Click here to access the original.

As global temperatures continue to rise, climate action is lagging and the window of opportunity is closing. On Sunday, the United Nations will kick off critical negotiations on how to address the problem collectively and urgently, during a two-week climate change conference in Katowice, Poland, known as COP24.

IOM/Amanda Nero A boy watches the shore from a boat near Sirajganj, a community affected by severe erosion that has left many displaced. Sirajganj, Bangladesh. October 2016

Thousands of world leaders, experts, activists, creative thinkers, and private sector and local community representatives will gather to work on a collective action plan to realize critical commitments made by all the countries of the world in Paris, three years ago.

UN News put together this guide to COP 24 to answer some of the biggest questions you may have and make sure youre all caught up, with a ringside seat on the action.

1. The basics: UNFCCC, UNEP, WMO, IPCC, COP 24, Kyoto Protocol, Paris Agreement... can someone please make sense of all this?

These acronyms and place names all represent international tools and terms that, under the leadership of the UN, were created to help advance climate action globally. They all play a specific and different role in focussing us all on achieving environmental sustainability. Heres how it fits together:

In 1992, the UN organised a major event in Rio de Janeiro called the Earth Summit, in which the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was adopted.

In this treaty, nations agreed to "stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere to prevent dangerous interference from human activity on the climate system. Today, the treaty has 197 signatories. Every year since the treaty entered into force in 1994, a conference of the parties  a COP  is held to discuss how to move forward and, since there have been 23 COPs so far, this years will be the 24th, or COP 24.

Because the UNFCCC had non-binding limits on greenhouse gas emissions for individual countries and no enforcement mechanism, various extensions to this treaty were negotiated during these COPs, including: the famous Kyoto Protocol in 1997, which defined emission limits for developed nations to be achieved by 2012; and the Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, in which all countries of the world agreed to step up efforts to limit global warming to 1.5C above pre-industrial temperatures and boost climate action financing.

Two agencies support the scientific work of the UN on climate change: the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Together, they set up the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 1988, which is made of hundreds of experts, dedicated to assessing data and providing reliable scientific evidence for the climate action negotiations, including the upcoming ones in Katowice.

2. The UN seems to be having a lot of conferences and summits on this subject Is any of it, well... fruitful?

These meetings have been vital to find a global consensus on an issue that requires a global solution. Although progress has been much slower than needed, the process  which has been as challenging as it is ambitious  has worked to bring all countries with very different circumstances, together. Progress has been made every step of the way. Some of the concrete actions taken so far prove one thing: climate action has a real positive impact and can truly help us prevent the worst.

Here are some notable achievements so far:

- At least 57 countries have managed to bring their greenhouse gas emissions down to the levels required to curb global warming.

- There are at least 51 carbon pricing initiatives in the works; charging those who emit carbon dioxide per tonne emitted.

- In 2015, 18 high-income countries committed to donating US$100 billion a year for climate action in developing countries. So far, over $70 billion have been mobilised.

3. Why is everyone talking about the Paris Agreement?

The Paris document  which provides the world with the only viable option for addressing climate change  has been ratified by 184 parties, and entered into force in November 2016.

The commitments contained in it are significant:

- Limit global average temperature rise to well below 2C and pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5C.

- Ramp up financing for climate action, including the annual $100 billion goal from donor nations for lower-income countries.

- Develop national climate plans by 2020, including their self-determined goals and targets.

- Protect beneficial ecosystems that absorb greenhouse gases, including forests.

- Strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerability to climate change.

- Finalize a work programme to implement the agreement in 2018.

The United States, which joined the Agreement in 2016, announced its intention in July 2017, to withdraw from it. However, the nation remains a party to the Agreement at least until November 2020, which is the earliest that it can legally request to withdraw from it.

4. Why is +1.5C a critical line?

According to scientific research assessed by the IPCC, keeping global warming to no more than 1.5C global average over pre-industrial levels, will help stave off devastating permanent damage to the planet and its people, including: the irreversible loss of habitat for animals in the Arctic and Antarctic; much more frequent instances of deadly extreme heat; water scarcity that could affect over 300 million people; the disappearance of coral reefs which are essential for entire communities and marine life; sea level rise which is threatening the future and economy of entire small island nations, etc.

All in all, the UN estimates that 420 million fewer people could be affected by climate change if we manage to stick to a 1.5C increase, instead of 2C.

We are still far from turning the corner toward a carbon-neutral future, and the need to move forward is greater than ever. The data tells us it is still possible to limit climate change to 1.5C, but the window of opportunity is closing and it will require unprecedented changes in all aspects of society.

5. So why is COP 24 important?

This years COP in Katowice, Poland, is particularly crucial because 2018 is the deadline that the signatories of the Paris Agreement agreed upon in order to adopt a work programme for the implementation of the Paris commitments. This requires the singular most important ingredient: trust between all countries.

Among the many elements that need to be ironed out is the financing of climate action worldwide. Because the clock is ticking on climate change, the world cannot afford to waste more time: we must collectively agree on a bold, decisive, ambitious and accountable way forward.

The discussions will be based on scientific evidence gathered over the years and assessed by experts. Namely and primarily the following reports:

- Octobers wake up call Report on Global Warming of 1.5?C, by the IPCC.

- 2018 Emissions Gap Report, by UNEP.

- 2018 Bulletin on greenhouse gas concentrations, by the WMO.

- 2018 Ozone Depletion Assessment, by the WMO and UNEP.

7. How can you follow the discussions at COP24?

There are many ways you can keep up to speed on the action:

- Subscribe to our Climate Change newsletter topic here so you can receive daily UN News highlights from Poland;

- Check this page regularly, as it will collect all the top stories filed from Katowice.

- Follow the hashtag #ClimateAction on Twitter;

8. How can you participate in the discussion and do your part for climate action?

You can join the Climate Action ActNow.bot which will recommend everyday actions to save the planet and tally up the number of actions taken to measure the impact that collective action can have.

By sharing your climate action efforts on social media, you can help encourage more people to act as well.

In addition, the Peoples Seat initiative, launched by the UNFCCC Secretariat, ensures you can contribute directly to the conversation at COP 24. So make sure to #TakeYourSeat and speak up!

9. What are some examples of initiatives that the UN is supporting to tackle climate change?

As the UN is mainstreaming environmental sustainability across is work, UN News has been highlighting some examples of projects, supported by UNEP or the UN Development Programme (UNDP), that show the pathway to climate action: in rural eastern Europe, farmers and entrepreneurs can cut emissions, one bog at a time; in the Lake Chad region, tens of thousands of drought-resistant trees are being planted; in Guatemala, the reintroduction of smallholder cocoa production in Guatemala is helping address both economic and environmental problems; in Bhutan, the power of traditional knowledge is being harnessed to support livelihoods and nature preservation; in Timor-Leste, a new generation of green infrastructure is being built; in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, small behavioural change is leading to great impact.

10. Why is the UN also planning a Climate Change Summit in 2019?

To build on the outcomes of COP 24, and to strengthen climate action and ambition at the highest possible levels, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterresis convening a Climate Change Summit next September. In advance of the 2020 deadline for countries to finalize their national climate plans, the Summit is designed to focus on practical initiatives to limit emissions and build resilience.

The Summit will focus on driving action in six areas: transition to renewable energy; funding of climate action and carbon pricing; reducing emissions from industry; using nature as a solution; sustainable cities and local action; and climate change resilience.

COP24: UN climate change conference, whats at stake and what you need to know, UN News, Nov 29, 2018

Receive UN daily updates directly in your inbox - Subscribe here to Climate Change topicIf youre not prepared, Barry Jenkins If Beale Street Could Talk can make for a flusteringly intimate experience. In his follow-up to Best Picture winner Moonlight, Jenkins frames his actorsmainly newcomer KiKi Layne and up-and-comer Stephan James, who play the dramas reticent young loversin luminous close-ups, talking to each other not quite at, and not quite through, the camera. The result is to situate us in the warm glow between 19-year-old Tish (Layne) and 22-year-old Fonny (James), cocooned within the lust and trust and devotion and giddiness they share. Even when theyre wrenched apart by a corrupt criminal justice systemwhich happens almost immediatelytheir gazes never let you forget the rawness of their connection.

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But Jenkins also primes his audience for that whispery, hot-breath closeness. As he did in Moonlight, Jenkins disarms with scenes of tenderness and bounty. His characters are eager to give themselves to one another. Jenkins has not hidden his adoration of Wong Kar-wai, and its hard not to feel that Beale Street is his In the Mood for Love: a masterful period romance told in lush colors (here mostly 70s-appropriate mustard and jade) and dancing curlicues of cigarette smoke, a love language rooted in meaningful looks and wordless understandings, and with an extraordinary strings-based score (by Nicholas Britell) that conveys the couples tragic yearning and inner earthquakes.

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Beale Street is also, of course, an adaptation of James Baldwins novelin fact, the first English-language film based on the authors work. Set in Harlem, it crackles with rage at the many racial inequities facing black Americans, including police brutality, mass incarceration, housing discrimination, and limited educational and occupational opportunities. (Jenkins indictments are all the more powerful for exposing the lack of political will to significantly address those problems, which continue to haunt us today.) Beale Street doesnt just put a face to those issues but illustrates how the accumulation of injustices great and small weighs down the soul. In an ensemble that may well be the best of any film this year, Brian Tyree Henry gives one of the standout performances as an unjustly imprisoned recent parolee conveying the disfigurement of his spirit through an unquenchable thirst to forget.

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But thats in a flashbackone of many extended ones that chronicle Tish and Fonnys plans for the future. In the present, Tish is pregnant and Fonnys in jail, awaiting trial for a rape he didnt commit. Like Moonlights Chiron, Fonny is saddled with a monstrous mother (Aunjanue Ellis), a religious fundamentalist who seems unbothered by her sons wrongful stay in prison as long as he can find God there. So its up to Tishs mother (Regina King) to help investigate the facts of Fonnys casea quest that takes her to Puerto Rico and back and to the limits of her compassion.

Beale Street doesnt just put a face to racial inequality but illustrates how the accumulation of injustices great and small weighs down the soul.

Jenkins borrows Baldwins words liberally, lending the dialogue an occasional stiffness. We were a part of each other, flesh of each others flesh, Tish explains in voice-over, unnecessarily, when the filmmaking and performances have already conveyed this no less eloquently. But the films universe is rounded out by the poison-tipped verbal arrows that the characters sling in reaction to their travails, as well as sharp observations about everyday millstones, like the physical toll of pregnancy or Tishs dislike of her perfume counter job, where white male customers act far more proprietarily over her body than Fonny ever does. And the writerly timbre of Tishs words adds to the burden of world-weariness being foisted on this young woman, a teenager wholl never again be afforded the luxury of lightheartedness.

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Jenkins inclination to gamble on unknown actors pays off once again: Laynes natural openness is a perfect fit for this tale of innocence colliding with calamity. The more experienced James is able to demonstrate his range as institutionalized cruelty chips away devastatingly quickly at his equanimity. But its the wondrously understated King who perhaps walks away with the film, revealing ever-new layers of decency and kindness.

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In the movies, love is cheap. Its everywhere and nowhere, too often reduced to a formula or a reward. Beale Street knows better. It restores to love, romantic and familial, its sanctityan ambition that makes it one of the most distinctive love stories in recent memory. Thats never more evident than in the early moment when Tishs mother happily toasts her daughters out-of-wedlock pregnancy, or in the gleaming sex scenes, where Tish and Fonny remove their white clothes and hold themselves defenseless against the other. And its that same love that allows Tish and Fonny to let themselves be pushed into an unknown future, because persisting in hope is the most powerful way they know how to love.The next Wes Anderson movie is now shooting in Angouleme, France, and details about the cast and story have begun to leak out. Indiewire reports that the film, to be called The French Dispatch is a 20th century period piece set in the French bureau of an American newspaper, which they describe as a love letter to journalists. The ensemble cast will include Bill Murray, Frances McDorman, Tilda Swinton, Timothee Chalamet, Benicio del Toro and Jeffrey Wright, and the film will interweave three storylines.

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The 20th century is a pretty long periodnearly 101 years!and a film about journalism in Paris during that era could cover anything from the Dreyfus affair to the Bill Clinton affair. Given Andersons tastes, however, smart money says this will be set in the middle of the 20th century, will strike a few notes from the work of A.J. Liebling and Janet Flanner at the New Yorker, and feature lots and lots of footage of mocked-up front pages featuring astonishingly precise period graphic design.

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There have been a lot of cinematic love letters to journalism recentlySteven Spielberg, Tom McCarthy, Dan Gilroyand, unfortunately, its not hard to suss out why: since The Perils of Pauline, filmmakers and audiences alike have been fascinated by movies about people or things that could die at any moment. Anderson, in contrast, seems to be most interested by things that have died and vanished from the world completelysee, e.g., The Grand Budapest Hotelwhich means his decision to make The French Dispatch at this moment in history is an omen, and not a good one. Probably time to follow his lead and move to France.The costs of polarization are many and they are deep. In a polarized society, politics inspires more hatred than hope. In a polarized society, there is little friendship across partisan divides. And as a result, in a polarized society, the continuation of democratic institutions will always be in doubt because each side will become more and more willing to ignore the key rules and norms of democracy if it helps them win the next battle.

Given the deep costs of polarization, it may seem strange, and perhaps even downright frivolous, to focus on the effect these divisions have on the quality of thought. But for anybody who wants to preserve the space to think about what is actually happening in the world with an open mind, it is difficult to ignore yet another cost of the growing partisan rancor in the United States: It has made many essays published in the pages of the countrys leading publications, and tweets composed by the countrys leading commentators, depressingly predictable.

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Take, for an example, the death of George H. W. Bush. One side of my Twitter feed was respectful but monochrome. The Bush it portrayed was a war hero who had ended the Cold War and faced down Saddam Husseinall the while playing by an imperturbable code of honor encapsulated in the noble letter he left for Bill Clinton in the desk of the Oval Office. The backlash to these remembrances was equally predictable: gleeful attacks on Bushs record and character. Within a few hours of his passing, critics had reduced Bush to the alleged lowlights of his career. To judge by some of the comments, he was little more than an old, white, male patrician who enjoyed race-baiting and seeing gay men die of AIDS.

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What struck me most in this shouting competition was the proud simplicity of it all. Bush was one of the most influential figures of postwar American politics. During his half-century of public service, he acquired both great achievements and serious failings to his name. But instead of struggling to make sense of this multifaceted legacy, the leading intellectual lights of our time immediately pressed his death into the service of our relentless culture war.

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This goes for the many commentators on the right who are unwilling to acknowledge the late presidents shortcomings. Bush rose to prominence in Texan politics in the 1960s by seeking to reach an uneasy truce with the far-right John Birch Society. He is responsible for the Willie Horton ad, one of the nastier pieces of political propaganda produced by a major party presidential candidate prior to the ascendancy of Donald Trump. And he made a serious error in judgment when he encouraged Iraqis to rise up against Saddam Hussein, only to leave the sadistic dictator free to take cruel revenge.

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It is perfectly appropriate to appraise the legacy of a deceased president in a forthright mannerwarts and all. And yet, those on the left who defy the supposed stricture not to speak ill of the dead, with all the glee and subtlety of a 5-year-old playing with his own excrement, miss something even more important: It is intellectually lazy and morally callous to reduce any person to a malicious caricaturewhether they are dead or alive.

This is true of many portrayals of Bushs substantive political legacy. Yes, he was at times troublingly complicit with the Republican Partys most extreme. But this does not erase the fact that he prioritized outreach to minority communities from the start of his career; that he defended a reasonably liberal immigration policy as president; or that he oversaw the peaceful collapse of the Soviet Union.

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It is even more true of many portrayals of Bushs character. Yes, he was an old white man who hailed from a long lineage of privilege. But the all-too-common implication that he never endured real hardship in his life in laughable on its face. Is this sneer a morally considerate way to describe a man who lost his first daughter to leukemia when she was 3 years old? And is it an intellectually respectable way to describe a man who volunteered for dangerous military duties at age 18 because he felt a moraland yes, perhaps patricianduty to contribute in the fight against fascism?

When I first came to the United States in 2005, I was amazed by how freewheeling the public discourse was compared to the staid, consensual debates Id witnessed in France and Germany. There were, of course, very deep political divisions at that time as well. But while the op-ed pages of the New York Times would very rarely laud George W. Bush, and the op-ed pages of the Wall Street Journal would very rarely criticize him, most topics were not infected by the same extent of partisan rancor. If I wanted to know what stance a magazine took on the latest geopolitical development, how a critic felt about the latest movie, or even what thoughts might occur to them on the occasion of a celebritys death, I actually have to, you know, read what they wrote.

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Today, by contrast, the vast majority of both writers and publications have become brands that are always on-message. This leaves depressingly little room over for the inherent complexity of the world. And so, instead of grappling with contradictory facts, too many of us prefer to preach to an ever-more righteous choir.

This is a great shame. For attempting to think through the complexity of the world is not just one of lifes great pleasures; it is also a prerequisite for affording our political adversaries the minimal amount of consideration without which we will, sooner or later, come to think of even the most well-meaning and mild-mannered of political adversaries as an evil enemy to be destroyed.A fourth service member has died from injuries sustained when a Taliban-claimed roadside bomb exploded near U.S. troops in Afghanistans Ghazni province on Nov. 27, the Department of Defense says. Army Sgt. Jason Mitchell McClary of Export, Pennsylvania, passed away Sunday in Landstuhl, Germany. He was 24.

In addition to the three service members killed immediately in the Nov. 27 attack, two other U.S. troops died in Afghanistan earlier in the monthan Army Ranger who was shot to death in western Afghanistan on Nov. 24 and a National Guardsman who was killed in Kabul on Nov. 3. According to the iCasualties database, those five deaths in November proper make the month the deadliest for U.S. forces in the country since December 2015.

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The first deaths related to the U.S. militarys Afghanistan engagement were recorded in October 2001, shortly after 9/11. As Slates Fred Kaplan noted in October 2018, that means that U.S. armed forces can now recruit 17-year-olds (who can enlist with parental consent) who werent yet born when the conflict began. In addition to our original Afghanistan enemies, the Taliban and al-Qaida, the U.S. is now fighting ISIS insurgents in the country as well. Wrote Kaplan: We are no closer than we have ever been to accomplishing our objectives [in Afghanistan], in part because those objectives have been so sketchily, inconsistently, and unrealistically defined.

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Relatedly, heres one memorable paragraph from a memorable piece in the New Yorker earlier this year about a CIA officer who worked in Afghanistan and Iraq, became disillusioned, quit his job, and joined the police force in his hometown of Savannah, Georgia, as a beat cop:

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We write these strategic white papers, saying things like Get the local Sunni population on our side,  Skinner said. Cool. Got it. But, then, if I say, Get the people who live at Thirty-eighth and Bulloch on our side, you realize, man, thats fucking hardand its just a city block. It sounds so stupid when you apply the rhetoric over here. Whos the leader of the white community in Live Oak neighborhood? Or the poor community? Skinner shook his head.  Leader of the Iraqi community. What the fuck does that mean?

Well  anyway  onward to victory!Two Minneapolis police officers have been placed on leave after decorating a Christmas tree in a majority-black community with pieces of trash in what city leaders decried as a racist display by a police force already struggling to rebuild community trust after a 2015 shooting of an unarmed black man sparked more than two weeks of protests.

The tree, erected last week in the Minneapolis Police Department 4th Precinct in the Near North neighborhood, was ornamented by a crumpled can of Steel Reserve malt liquor, empty bags of Takis and Funyuns, a cup from Popeyes, a pack of Newport cigarettes, and a single strip of yellow crime-scene tape.

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After a photo of the tree circulated around the community and on the internet last week, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the tree as racist, despicable, and  well beneath the standards of any person who serves the city of Minneapolis, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. Local civil rights and community leaders led a call for racial sensitivity training for the local police in response, and they called for the two officers responsible to be fired. After Frey pledged on Friday to have the two officers immediately fired, he sent out another statement saying the process takes time, and according to the Star-Tribune, the two officers were placed on paid leave.

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This is a photo of a racist and derogatory Christmas tree at the Minneapolis 4th precinct. @jeremiah4north @CunninghamMPLS @Jacob_Frey We must demand an apology and commitment to build better community relations. This is unacceptable. pic.twitter.com/xNq4CUZUu5  North by Northside (@northxnorthside) November 30, 2018

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City Councilman Phillipe Cunningham, who represents the Near North neighborhood, said on Facebook that a police officer is assigned every year to decorate a tree and that the officers who were handed the task this year decorated it as a prank. According to Cunningham, the police will undergo a cultural sensitivity training and hold a community outreach event.

When we see something like what we saw with the Christmas tree at the 4th Precinct, it is so much more than a racist prank by a single officer. What we see is the ugly racist culture that has been brewing in Minneapolis Police Department throughout its 150-year history, he wrote in a subsequent post. I am still a Black man myself and these outrageous reminders only further my own feeling generally unsafe around police officers.

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He praised the police chief and expressed hope for better police-community relations in the future but emphasized that the incident was another blow to the communitys trust in police. These pieces of trash were deliberately chosen to represent how certain officers feel about the community they serve: that Black people are a stereotype to be mocked and the lives of those they serve may as well be reduced to trash in the gutter, he wrote.

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In 2015, police shot 24-year-old Jamar Clark after a call for an alleged domestic dispute between Clark and his girlfriend. According to police, Clark began disrupting [the paramedics] ability to render aid to Clarks girlfriend. After a struggle with the police, an officer fired his gun, hitting Clark in his head, just above his left eye. According to police, Clark had managed to grab the officers gun. Many witnesses at the scene said Clark had been handcuffed and therefore posed no real threat, but experts later said that none of Clarks DNA was on the handcuffs, and an autopsy found no cuff marks on his wrists. Neither of the two officers involved was indicted, and community organizers held 18 days of protest outside the 4th Precinct station.The University of North Carolina plans to erect a $5 million allegorical structure commemorating the United States continuing inability to resolve the issues that underlay the 186165 war between northern and southern states, its chancellor announced Monday:

Chancellor Carol Folt and the UNC Board of Trustees propose placing Silent Sam in a new, single-purpose building on UNCs Odum Village site where it can be preserved and historically contextualized, the BOT announced Monday morning.

Thats from the Daily Tar Heel, and to actually explain whats going on, what UNC just announced is a proposal for a history and education center that will both securely display and historically contextualize the pro-Confederacy Silent Sam statue that was installed on campus in 1913 and pulled off its outdoor pedestal by protesters this August.

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The proposal faces review by the University of North Carolina systems statewide board of governors, and the local News & Observer newspaper notes that at least one member of the system governing board has spoken out to say the statue should be put back up on its pedestal. Some students and activists, meanwhile, argue that keeping Silent Sam on campus in any context is a concession to white supremacists. A Republican-backed 2015 state law passed specifically with the statue in mind, however, requires that any relocation of monuments on North Carolina public grounds must be approved by a state commission charged with ensuring that said monuments retain positions of visibility and honor.Slates expanded voting rights coverage is made possible by the support of Slate Plus members and readers like you.

In 2016, shortly after North Carolina voted to replace Republican Gov. Pat McCrory with Democrat Roy Cooper, GOP legislators sprang into action. Aided by an unconstitutional gerrymander, Republican legislators passed a raft of measures stripping the incoming governor of power. In a lame-duck special session, the legislature deprived Cooper of his authority over the state elections board, preventing him from restoring voting rights throughout the state. They also denied Cooper the ability to appoint hundreds of employees to the executive branch in an effort to immobilize it, and packed state commissions with allies. Later, they restructured the judiciary to preclude Cooper from appointing judges, attempted to throw state Supreme Court elections, slashed the budget of his attorney general, and barred the governor from suing to block unconstitutional laws.

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Last month, Wisconsin voted to replace Republican Gov. Scott Walker with Democrat Tony Evers. GOP legislators, aided by a grossly partisan gerrymander, have proposed a series of bills to strip Evers of power in the lame-duck session. In other words, Wisconsin Republicans have adopted the North Carolina playbook for a legislative coup to kneecap an incoming Democratic governor before he even takes office.

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The Wisconsin GOPs power grab is best described as a crisis for the rule of law. It transcends mere hardball politics and instead marks an effort to erode the separation of powers prescribed in the state constitution. Republicans seek to accomplish three broad goals: manipulate the 2020 state Supreme Court election; rob the governor and attorney general of their executive authority; and curb voting rights. If passed, these proposals would constitute a sweeping overhaul of the Wisconsin government, illegitimately entrenching Republican control. Here are the three ways Wisconsin Republicans want to rig the system in their favor.

Manipulating Wisconsin Supreme Court Elections

Back in April, voters elected Rebecca Dallet, a progressive, to the Wisconsin Supreme Court, cutting the conservative majority from 52 to 43. In April 2020, voters are set to return to the polls as Republican Justice Daniel Kelly fights for re-election against a Democratic challenger. Currently, that election is scheduled to coincide with the states general election, as well as the Democratic presidential primary. If Kelly loses, liberals will seize control of the court. Republicans are already concerned that high turnout for the primary could result in a progressive victory.

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In response, GOP legislators have proposed moving the state Supreme Court election back one month, to March 2020. There is no plausible reason for the shift except to decrease Democratic turnout. It would cost the state an extra $7 million, and 60 of 72 Wisconsin county election officials have already declared that it would be logistically impossible. Legislative Republicans are plowing ahead anyway, well aware that a progressive Supreme Court could undo the GOP assault on unions, voting rights, gun control, education, and the environment.

Disenfranchising Wisconsinites

Under Walker, Wisconsin attempted to slash early voting, allowing the practice just two weeks before Election Day and only on weekdays. In 2016, U.S. District Judge James Peterson blocked these limitations, ruling that the scheme intentionally discriminates on the basis of race. His decision restored the previous law, under which municipalities can allow voting as early as 47 days before an election. In November, a record number of citizens took advantage of early voting, casting more than 547,000 ballots before Election Day.

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The Wisconsin GOP s power grab is best described as a crisis for the rule of law.

Now Republicans want to revive the two-week limitation, alleging it is necessary for consistency across the state. That rationale is difficult to believe, since no one has credibly claimed that voters are confused by the present regime. As Peterson noted in his ruling, early voting is disproportionately popular among minority voters, who tend to support Democrats. The real motive behind the proposed law, then, likely remains the same: restricting minorities access to the ballot. (Although a lawsuit is inevitable, Donald Trumps judicial appointees are unlikely to halt cuts to early voting.)

Attack on the Executive Branch

Republicans most complex bills are also their most radical. Rather than allow Evers and his Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul to faithfully execute the laws, the GOP wants to divest the executive branch of its constitutional powers.

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Evers and Kaul rode to victory partly on their promise to withdraw from multistate litigation seeking to invalidate the Affordable Care Acts most popular provisions, such as protections against pre-existing conditions. Now Republican legislators seek to prevent this withdrawal by transferring law enforcement authority to the legislature. Special Session Bill 2 would require the governor and attorney general to obtain explicit legislative approval before withdrawal from the suitwhich the legislature is certain to withhold.

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But the bill goes much further than that: It also abolishes the principle that the attorney general represents the state in litigation. The bill authorizes legislative leadership to hire private lawyers, using taxpayer money, to defend state laws in court when legislators do not trust the attorney general to litigate a case. It also makes it difficult for the attorney general to operate by eliminating the office of the solicitor general, which oversees high-profile cases. Finally, the bill bars the attorney general from reaching settlements without legislative consent, while moving settlement and victory funds from the attorney generals purview to the legislatures general fund.

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These provisions are designed to paralyze the attorney general. They also seem designed to stop Kaul from settling cases that the executive branch deems unworthy of appealing after an initial court loss. For instance, under current law, the attorney general could settle lawsuits challenging Wisconsins disenfranchisement measures, including a stringent voter ID rule. Josh Stein, North Carolinas Democratic attorney general, was able to kill the states monster voter suppression law in 2017 by dismissing an appeal after a court found that it target[ed] African Americans with almost surgical precision. Wisconsin Republicans have decided to prevent Kaul from making a similar decision.

Meanwhile, Special Session Bills 2 and 4 limit the governors control over a number of state commissions, including the Group Insurance Board (which oversees state benefits), the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (a controversial Walker initiative that grants loans to businesses), the Department of Administration (which prepares the state budget), the Department of Corrections, and the Department of Transportation. The bills allow the legislature to appoint more members to these boards, curtailing Evers appointment powers. They also restrict state agencies ability to promulgate rules and regulations regarding taxes, infrastructure, transportation, education, health care, and elections. This is another area in which the Wisconsin GOP is copying North Carolina Republicans, who used similar maneuvers to stop Cooper from exercising control over the state government.

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Wisconsins democracy is already on shaky ground. In November, Democrats won 54 percent of the total legislative votebut Republicans won 63 of 99 Assembly seats thanks to a ruthlessly anti-Democratic gerrymander. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to strike down this map in June, allowing Republicans to retain their grasp on the General Assembly. (Following the 2020 census, the legislature will redraw Wisconsins maps, though Evers can veto them.) Now GOP legislators are poised to aggrandize their own authority at the expense of the executive branch to prevent the Democratic governor from carrying out the will of the voters. And Wisconsin is not alone: Michigan Republicans are considering a similar tactic before Democratic Gov.-elect Gretchen Whitmer takes office.

A responsible federal judiciary would have already stepped in to undo the egregious gerrymander that enabled the travesty in Wisconsin. Instead, the U.S. Supreme Court has sat idly by as Republicans entrench their stranglehold on state legislatures through antidemocratic means. And thanks in part to the justices inaction, what began as a shocking abuse of power in North Carolina is quickly becoming standard practice for the GOP.There was no reason for launching a criminal prosecution, according to the investigator.

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The investigator for the Interior Ministrys inspectorate turned down a criminal complaint in the case of the alleged abduction of Vietnamese citizen Trinh Xuan Thanh using a Slovak governmental special plane on October 12.

He reached this decision since there was no reason to launch a criminal prosecution or other actions, the Interior Ministrys press department told the SITA newswire. His decision has been confirmed by the supervising prosecutor who has dismissed the complaint submitted by an informant in this matter.

The decision will be published

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Read also: MFA: Slovak-Vietnamese relations frozen until Hanoi explains abduction Read more

Apart from the informant, the investigator heard 23 people and asked for reports from 15 institutions such as the border control department in Ruzinov, Bratislava airport, the Slovak Information Service (SIS) intelligence agency, and Military Intelligence, SITA reported.

The police inspectorate decided to publish the resolution rejecting the criminal complaint due to the significant interest of the public in this case and because the investigator approved it, the Interior Ministry added, as quoted by SITA.

What is the case about?

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Read also: Vietnamese delegation did not have visa. We gave them exception Read more

The Dennik N daily reported back in October that two police officers told the Slovak investigators that while at the airport, they saw how Thanh, who was kidnapped last summer from Germany, was taken onto the governmental plane.

Then-interior minister Robert Kalinak (Smer) has rejected any notions of the deliberate participation of Slovakia in the abduction, SITA reported.The organisation considers the decision unprecedented. The lawyers have already appealed it and question the potential bias of the courts.

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A group of 12 Greenpeace activists, who were detained following a protest held on the mining tower in Novaky (Trencin Region), will be prosecuted while in custody, according to a ruling issued by the district court in Prievidza on December 2.

The judge explained that if released, the accused could continue in their criminal activities.

However, the activists have challenged the decision, with their lawyers objecting to alleged bias on the part of the court. They are asking for the investigation to be moved outside the region, the TASR newswire reported.

The activists from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Finland and Belgium are facing charges for damaging and threatening the operation of a generally beneficial device in the form of complicity, for which they could spend from one to five years in prison, the Sme daily reported.

The protest was calm and non-violent, Greenpeace says

The court decision to prosecute the activists while they are in custody is unprecedented, according to Greenpeace.

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Read also: Greenpeace activists protest coal mining Read more

Activists are not criminals who should be prosecuted in custody, said Ivana Kohutkova, head of Greenpeace Slovensko, in a statement, stressing that the activists calmly and without any violence protested against Hornonitrianske Bane Prievidza mining company which has been a burden to the region and Slovakia for decades.

Lukas Opett from the Kolikova & Partners law firm said that the previous proceedings had not taken into consideration that by their activities the activists non-violently pursued their constitutional right to freedom of speech, with which they did not endanger any lives or the health of other people.

In his opinion, the current criminal prosecution and actions against the activists could be perceived as giving preference to protecting a private mining companys property rather than the right to express ones opinion.

Hornonitrianske Bane Prievidza informed earlier that the protest endangered 342 miners working underground since after the activists climbed the mining tower, the mining elevator could not move. As a result, a critical state had to be declared. The court says that mining had to be stopped for five hours, Sme wrote.

Greenpeace has rejected the claims that they threatened the lives of miners. The tower is used to transport extracted coal, while miners use other exits to leave the mine, it added.

Prime minister questions the court decision

Although PM Peter Pellegrini (Smer) has a different opinion on the importance of coal mining in the Upper Nitra region and does not like the ways the activists present their opinion, he questions the decision to take them into custody.

Although he respects court decisions, he has questioned this particular one, recalling the case when he considered it absurd to release the murderer of Filipino expat Henry Acorda.

These decisions are only logical if everybody who is obviously dangerous and who commits crimes is in custody, Pellegrini wrote on Facebook.

Greenpeace Slovensko welcomed the statement but stressed that they are not alone in calling for a halt to coal mining in Slovakia.

Up to 64 percent of Slovaks want coal based energy in Slovakia to end, as a poll suggests, said Kohutkova, as quoted in the press release. Moreover, as many as 80 percent of Slovakias citizens want the prime minister to support the transition of Upper Nitra to clean energy and economics.

Though she admits that not everybody can understand this way of protesting, before such actions are taken, there are talks with local and national-level politicians. In this specific case, they carried out a test that revealed alarming values of arsenic in sediment found close to the outfalls of the mine waste-water from Hornonitrianske Bane Prievidza.

The response of the competent bodies, both the mining company and the state, wasnt sufficient, Kohutkova explained. The problems of this region have been linked with the coal industry for decades and arent being solved in a way this region deserves.

Meanwhile, Justice Minister Gabor Gal (Most-Hid) said that it is necessary to respect court decisions. Although he did not want to comment on the ongoing investigation from his position as justice minister, from his point of view as a normal person and lawyer, he said that the decision had surprised him, reported TASR.

General Prosecutor Jaromir Ciznar has asked for the file concerning the prosecution in connection with the request to remove the investigation from the regional prosecutors office in Trencin and to review the steps taken by the law enforcement bodies, TASR wrote.Political representatives expressed their sympathies with the bereaved.

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Five people, including four children, died in a fire that erupted in the village of Richnava (Kosice Region) on November 30.

One house in the local settlement was in flames; close to it five bodies were found, said Lenka Ivanova, spokesperson for the regional police corps headquarters in Kosice, as quoted by the TASR newswire, specifying that one person was aged 28, while the others were aged five, seven, eight and nine years.

The fire started shortly after 0300 in a four-room house, and caused the roof to collapse. Firefighters extinguished it after more than four hours, TASR reported.

Politicians expressed their sympathy

About 2,500 people live in the settlement where the fire erupted, said Richnava Mayor Ivan Dunka, as quoted by TASR. It was a brick house in which a mother and her four children lived. There has never been such a tragedy here.

Meanwhile, several politicians expressed their grief.

Allow me to express my deep sympathy with all the bereaved, said PM Peter Pellegrini (Smer), as quoted by TASR.

President Andrej Kiska issued a similar statement and added that the deaths could have been prevented.

There are thousands of people living in the settlements in poverty, he said, as quoted by TASR. Ive been pointing to the need to discuss this topic since being appointed president. We know the solutions and many have already been tested. But cutting the vicious circle of poverty requires courage and determination.

Speaker of Parliament Andrej Danko (Slovak National Party) expressed his sympathy too, calling it a huge tragedy.The president will present him with gifts from Slovakia.

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President Andrej Kiska is to have an audience with Pope Francis in the Vatican on December 14. He will give a present to the pope that will consist of four Christmas decorations made by people from socially disadvantaged groups, the TASR newswire reported.

The first two gifts are Christmas baubles made by families with handicapped children in the Kosice-based Liberta centre and pupils of the primary school in Spissky Hrhov (Presov Region) where Roma study.

The president visited Kosice on December 3 to personally collect these baubles made for the pope.

The third Christmas decoration was made by children from a childrens home in Turzovka (Zilina Region) and the fourth will be made by the homeless at the Bratislava-based Resoty of Anton Srholec centre.

Kiska will go on a business trip to Italy on December 13. The main part of the trip will be a meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella.Whatever contract was signed, it can be shredded, PM Peter Pellegrini said.

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The Defence Ministry stated on November 30 that it had signed contracts to purchase 14 American F-16 fighter jets.

The ministry has signed the technical contract documents that are needed to start the process of fighter jet renovation in accordance with the government resolution, said Danka Capakova, spokesperson for the ministry, as quoted by the Dennik N daily.

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Read also: The first Slovak F-16 will first remain in the US Read more

However, after PM Peter Pellegrini stated that he considers the contracts to be invalid for now and that whatever the ministry signed can be shredded, the ministry has changed its attitude.

Pellegrini critical

Commenting on the agreement, Pellegrini noted that the governmental resolution clearly stated that the documents could be signed only with the agreement of the Finance Ministry.

The prime minister should be informed about the signing of these contracts by the minister. We are not talking about the purchase of socks here, Pellegrini said in a political talk show broadcast by the TA3 news channel on December 2, referring to the purchase of fighter jets, one of the biggest purchases in the history of Slovakia amounting to more than 1.6 billion.

The Defence Ministry meanwhile corrected its original statement. As Capakova explained, only the drafts were signed in order to start the process of renovation and the American side was also notified. As she stressed, they respect the fact that the agreements need to be approved by the Finance Ministry, and they will take further steps in this respect, the SITA newswire wrote.

The Americans stated that they have not yet received any signed contracts concerning the purchase of F-16 fighter jets, Dennik N reported.French driver Jean Philippe Bazire was the star at Pompano Park on Sunday night (Dec. 2) in the highly anticipated France-USA Challenge.

Bazire, 32, had two wins and a third in the three-race competition as the French team out-slugged the home team 101-82.

The French native kicked off the festivities with a gate-to-wire win with Skyway Priss, a 10-year-old daughter of Cincinnati Kid trained by Dale Gilmour for owner 1940 LLC.

It was the first win on U.S. soil for Bazire, who competed last year at Pompano Park and had a second-place finish and a third-place finish in his only two starts at the southern Florida oval.

"I knew this is a classy mare with a lot of money earned at over 40 wins in her career (46 to be precise coming in to the action), and I thought if I could take the lead early, I would be competitive, Bazire said after the race.

Competitive she was, as she clicked off fractions of :29, 1:00.3 and 1:30.4 before a :29.1 finale sealed the deal.

Love Hunter, driven by Ron Cusimano, finished second while Holiday Spirit, handled by visitor Emmanuel Puniere, was third, which left France with a 37-24 lead after Round One.

Skyway Priss paid $6.00 to win as the second choice in the betting.

Bazire then led Power And Faith, trained by George Coblentz for owner Don Brainard, to a wire-to-wire win in 1:59. The duo held off a determined effort by You Cant Habit, with Carl Garofalo in the bike, by a half length.

Put On The Day, driven by Tony Ciuffetelli, finished third. The French contingent earned a narrow 31-30 decision for the round and an overall lead of 68-54 heading into the finale.

Off at 18-1, Power And Faith paid $38.00 to win.

In the final leg, the French-bred Verdi D Em, driven by Malta's Omar Caucki, who is a relatively new arrival in the U.S., mowed down the favourite, Cantab Lindy, with Brent Davis, in 1:56.

In that dash, Cantab Lindy, who had started from Post 9, ground his way to the front after a swift opening panel in :27.1. The eventual winner was parked every step while the leader carded fractions of :56.3 and 1:26.2.

In the lane, Verdi D Em charged to the front at mid-stretch and on to a two and a half-length win, which was a new lifetime mark for the nine-year-old gelded son of Neoh Jiel.

Trained by Rob Harmon for owner John Campagnuolo, Verdi D Em sent his lifetime bankroll to $296,874 and rewarded his faithful with a $34.80 mutuel.

The final tally was 101-82, with the French team taking home the top honours and Bazire recognized as the leading driver with 38 individual points.

In accepting the recognition for his achievement, Bazire said, "It's an honour to compete here in Florida; I love the hospitality and the weather. Of course, I am happy to pick up the wins here. I was so close last year, so this night will be in my memory forever."

Bazire added, "I guess I got some genes from my relative, Jean-Michel Bazire, who has won many top races, including the Prix d'Amerique with Moni Maker in 1999.

Noted as an all-around horseman throughout the industry worldwide, Jean-Michel has 6,086 career wins  472 of which have come as a jockey.

In Pompano's $10,000 Open I Handicap Pace, Panocchio, driven by Wally Hennessey, put on yet another game performance, as the eight-year-old gelded son of No Pan Intended held off Casimer Richie P, with John MacDonald in the bike, and Dinky Dune, handled by Andy Shetler, by a half length in 1:51.4.

"He (Panocchio) might have a little age on him now, but he hasn't lost one iota of his gameness and will to win, Hennessey said after the dash. He is something else."

Panocchio, a gelded son of No Pan Intended, now has a 63-41-12 scorecard from 166 career starts, good for $563,138.

Off at 6-5 on the tote board, Panocchio paid $4.60 to win.

Pompano racing will continue on Monday night with a guaranteed $10,000 Pick-4 pool, a Pick-6 carryover, and a Super Hi-5 carryover of $41,394.

Post time is set for 7:20 p.m.

(Pompano Park)Horsepeople must remember two important February deadlines for paperwork due in order to maintain eligibility in the Pennsylvania Breeders Fund Award program and Pennsylvania Sire Stakes program.

The State Horse Racing Commission Bureau of Standardbred Horse Racing has announced that owners must register their stallions for the 2019 breeding season with paperwork postmarked by February 1. Additionally, owners looking to register their broodmares for the Breeders Fund Award program must have their mares registered as Pennsylvania residents postmarked by February 15 to ensure their foals of 2019 are eligible for the breeder awards.

A stallion must remain in the state, at a declared facility, from February 15 to July 4. Breeding can take place within a couple of weeks of either date. If a stallion is intended to be used as both a stud and a racehorse in 2019, approval must be gained from the Bureau of Standardbred Horse Racing. If the horse competes out of state, the horse must return to his declared Pennsylvania facility after each of those out-of-state races.

Broodmares whose owners want them to qualify for resident status must submit the registration paperwork postmarked to the Harrisburg Commission office by February 15. Broodmares must reside in Pennsylvania for at least 180 consecutive days, including foaling, and be in foal to a registered Pennsylvania stallion for their offspring to be eligible for the breeder awards. No registered broodmare is authorized to leave the state for any reason during those 180 days, except for a medical emergency. If that occurs, the commission must be notified as soon as possible.

Registration forms are available by contacting Ryan Kell at 717-214-9053 or [email protected].

For more information, visit agriculture.pa.gov and search state horse racing commission.

(PA State Horse Racing Commission)People living in liberated areas are being forced to spend large amounts of money in order to secure passports, register marriages and obtain family record books reports Iqtissad.

Obtaining paperwork to prove an individuals identity is a major problem for residents of liberated northern Syria. The securing of family record books and others personal papers, has led to some being blackmailed by lawyers, given the opportunity for them to profit, as they pay large amounts of money going from one lawyer to another, according to residents of the last area under opposition control.

The regime imposes extremely difficult conditions to obtain these papers, including requiring that the person be present in their region in order to obtain a personal identification papers or a passport, and for one of the two spouses to be present if a marriage is to be registered or to obtain a family record book.

Revolutionary agencies in the north, especially those under the authority of the Interim Government, have tried to find an alternative way of granting residents family record books or passports from their government, but this has not received great interest because these papers are not recognized by anyone except with the northern Syrian institutions.

The prices differ horribly, said Mahmoud, a displaced person from the Damascus countryside living in Idleb city. Mahmoud obtained a family record book from the Interim Government through one of the committees responsible for displaced people, but he needs to establish his marriage in Damascusand this led him through a number of lawyers. One of them asked for 350,000 Syrian pounds to register the marriage and to get the family record book, while another asked for 200,000 pounds.

Mahmoud was able to register the marriage, but the issue of personal ID and the family record book left him angry, as none of the lawyers I contacted could help me.

The lawyers twist and turn, as Abou Saeeda resident of the Idleb countryside put it. Abou Saeed needed an official family book, and one of the lawyers asked for a thousand dollars to obtain the document. Abu Seed told Iqtissad: I dont think about it anymore. One thousand dollars is too much.

With regard to passports, the price of obtaining them can be very high if the individual is not personally present in Damascus. Women who are outside regime-controlled areas, can obtain a passport for 700 to 900 dollars, while obtaining a passport for menespecially those of military service ageis close to impossible, if they are in the liberated areas.

The civil registry document is is considered very easy, although the price of obtaining one is still 20,000 pound for those in Idleb. A baccalaureate or university degree costs between 50,000 to 75,000 pounds.

Residents who do not have personal IDs have resorted to forged IDs which resemble the IDs issued by the regime and the cost of which ranges between 2,000 and 5,000 pounds per ID.

In the northern Aleppo countryside, which is overseen by Turkey, residents obtain special IDs issued by the local councils that administer the area, whereby they are seeking to ban official personal IDs to put the new IDs in their place.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.Im visiting Janakpur as cultural envoy: Uttar Pradesh CM Adityanath

Chief Minister of the Indian State of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath has said that he is visiting Janakpur as a cultural envoy to attend a Hindu religious event on December 12.Around the world, Syrian students conducted sit-ins to protest against the economic sanctions imposed on Syria reports SANA.

On Saturday, branches of the National Union of Syrian Students (NUSS) and Syrian communities abroad staged sit-ins in front of European missions in several world capitals, calling for the lifting of the economic blockade on Syria.

Syrian students and other members of the Syrian community in Austria, as well as members of the Hands off Syria initiative, rejected and condemned all forms of unjust and coercive measures imposed on Syria, in addition to the sending of terrorists to implement expansionist and aggressive policies.

Syrian students and the community in Egypt also condemned the policies of economic blockade, which subjugate people and governments that reject foreign dictates and adhere to independent national decisions.

In New Delhi, a mass of Syrian students and members of the community called on the international community to stand with Syria in their confrontation with terrorism.

During their gathering, Syrian students from the Russian universities in Moscow, in cooperation with their Russian colleagues and members of the Syrian community and Arab Baath Socialist Party, called for the ending of unjust sanctions imposed by EU states on Syria.

In Havana, the NUSS, in cooperation with the Syrian Embassy and the Syrian community, held an event to condemn the Western coercive measures imposed on Syria . The participants carried banners in Arabic and Spanish that condemn the unjust blockade imposed on Syria.

In the Algerian capital, Syrian students arranged a sit-in, organized in coordination with the Syrian Embassy, calling for the need to lift the blockade, sending a letter to the EU Ambassador condemning all the coercive measures burdening the Syrian people.

In Beirut, the NUSS and Syrian Workers Association, in cooperation with Lebanese student organizations, held a sit-in in front of the headquarters of the United Nations ESCWA to condemn the coercive measures.

In Germany, NUSS held a supportive stance, expressing in a statement directed to the European Commission the rejection of the unjust blockade imposed on Syria in coincidence with the war of terrorism.

This article was edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces have been fighting to eliminate the Islamic State from east of the Euphrates reports Zaman Al Wasl.

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) said Sunday it had thwarted an Islamic State (ISIS) car-bomb attack in eastern Deir ez-Zor province, amid the mass displacement of tens of families from battlefield areas.

For weeks, SDF fighters have been attempting to remove ISIS from their last pocket of Syrian territory on the banks of the Euphrates, in an offensive backed by US-led airstrikes.

But the radical group has showed stubbornness and has advanced into SDF areas, killing and wounding dozens.

At least 60 US-backed fighters were killed and ISIS took 30 more captive in Deir ez-Zor, Amaq news agency said.

The SDF captured a senior ISIS leader who served as an assistant to the groups self-declared caliph Abou Bakr al-Baghdadi, they said Friday.

The SDF, a Kurdish-led militia that holds a quarter of Syria, east of the Euphrates, detained Osama al-Awaid last week, it said in a statement.

They captured Awaid in a special operation in a village in eastern Syria, the statement said, adding that he had been a senior security official for ISIS in the country.

More than a year after the Islamic States physical caliphate collapsed in both Syria and Iraq following military attacks, Baghdadis whereabouts remains a mystery.

However, despite its loss of territory, the group has been able to launch guerrilla attacks in areas controlled by both the Syrian and Iraqi governments.

This article was edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.The Syrian-Syrian Dialogue Conference was attended by more than 100 figures from the opposition who discussed a wide range of topics writes Ana Press.

The day before yesterday proceedings closed on the second round of the Syrian-Syrian Dialogue Conference, with participation from a number of Syrian political forces and figures, who were invited by the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC), the political wing of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), backed by the International Coalition led by Washington.

The co-chair of the SDC, Riad Darar, told Ana Press, The conferences main aim was to bring together Syrians. We say Syrians because we do not want to speak only for the opposition alone, but for all Syrians. We invite everyone, because the coming together of Syrians is the path to a solution in Syria, and through that we can developed the main shared principles between the various parties in order to reach an agreement.

Darar said, A number of points were developed during the conference, which could be the basis for future agreements, whether regarding the issue of the constitution, or the meeting of secular democratic opposition forces, or agreeing with the Syrian government on the mechanism for a political solution. The Council is open to dialogue with Damascus, in order to reach an agreement that satisfies everyone.

The SDC co-chair said that, Several themes were developed to discuss the issue of women or humanitarian issues as a whole. Views were given and discussed, and subsequently the Syrian-Syrian dialogue will continue, to arrive at the desired aim.

Darar stressed that, For this meeting we invited the full opposition spectrum and the Interim Government and all actors in the northern countryside. We hope that in the coming stages, there will be broader cooperation between the full spectrum of Syrian society. Invitations will be sent to everyone for the upcoming meeting.

The dialogue lasted for two successive days, in which they discussed the humanitarian issue, the form of the government in democratic decentralization, the model of the Self-Administration, the economic question and its ideal form in the future, the Syrian constitution and its basic principles, the issue of womens rights and their role in the solution and in Syrias stability, and the mechanisms for uniting the secular, democratic opposition.

The conference was attended by more than 100 figures from the internal and external opposition, and the presidency of the SDC, and a number of politicians from Syrian provinces and figures from civil society and women active in public affairs, according to the SDC announcement.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.The young Syrian was walking home from work when he was attacked by two Turkish nationals, who stole his money and phone reports Alsouria Net.

On Saturday, a thief in the Turkish city of Gaziantep stabbed a Syrian child and stole his mobile phone and 400 Turkish lirahis weekly wageswhich caused severe bleeding and resulted in him being rushed to the hospital.

Mohamed Mima,16, was returning from work when three thieves stabbed him in his side and his legs, before fleeing.

A video recording circulated by Syrian activists on Facebook showed Mima after he was stabbed, with a number of Syrians and Turks gathering around him waiting for the ambulance to arrive.

Abdul Hadi Hijazi, the childs uncle, said that Mima underwent surgery, which lasted two hours after one of the blades struck his liver. He said late yesterday night that he was still in the emergency care room.

Hijazi noted that the thieves were of Turkish nationality.

Mohameds incident recalled to minds another similar incident which occurred on Nov. 8, 2018, when a young Syrian woman, Ghani Abou Salah, was killed and her colleague wounded after an attempted robbery in Gaziantep by two young men whom the Turkish security forces were subsequently able to arrest.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.A report by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has said that a former commander from Harasta is now operating as a drug dealer writes Al-Hal.

A report by a rights observatory has revealed that a former leader in the Ahrar al-Sham group, who later joined regime forces, currently relies on drug trafficking in reconciliation and settlement areas in eastern Ghouta, which are now under Bashar al-Assads influence.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that the former leader of the Security Bureau for Ahrar al-Sham in the city of Harasta, Abou Osama al-Shayab, is trading and distributing drugs in the cities and towns of eastern Ghouta with facilitation and participation from regime commanders there.

The Observatory said that Shayab had settled his status when the rebel groups in Ghouta surrendered and headed to the north. He is currently leading a local militia in Harasta under the Fourth Division.

The Observatory said in a report issued today, that the man, had a wide network of dealers, composed of about 100 people, who were former fighters with him in the Fajr al-Umma Brigade within Ahrar al-Sham, who rejected the expulsion and agreed to reconciliations and settlements in eastern Ghouta, and then later became tools for al-Shayab and his shabiha, who trade and sell drugs.

A former report by the Observatory revealed that militants and security figures in Jaish al-Islam, who had the biggest influence in Ghouta, refused to leave and became powerful players in the trade of prohibited substances in the area.

The report said that among the former Jaish al-Islam commanders involved in the drug trade was Abou Mohamed Naji, who was responsible for the Hisbah in the group, and was the righthand of Abou Abdel Rahman al-Kaka, an important sharia judge in Jaish al-Islam.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.Malaysia bans 63,000 foreign workers for breaching rules

In yet another stern move, Malaysia has further tightened its immigration policies. It has barred entry of 63,000 foreigners involved in breaching immigration related rules.Nepal ready to help Pakistan host SAARC Summit

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said that Nepal was willing to play the role of a facilitataor to hold the 19th SAARC summit in Pakistan.Protest hinders classes of Agriculture and Forestry University

The indefinite protest launched by the students and professors of Agriculture and Forestry University in Rampur, Chitwan, has left the academic environment in one of countrys leading technical institutions in chaos.Infrastructure, healthcare and education are among the top sectors for cooperation between the UK and Vietnam, British Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Ian Gibbons has said.

Gibbons talked with Tuoi Tre News on the sidelines of a business reception for major British and Vietnamese companies in the city on Sunday.

The reception was held as part of the GREAT campaign, a series of events jointly launched by the British Embassy in Hanoi and the Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City to celebrate 45 years of diplomatic relations between the UK and Vietnam.

Britain's Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, who is on a December 2-4 visit to Vietnam at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh, also attended the event.

When asked about the key sectors in Vietnam - UK cooperation, Consul General Gibbons said, If I have to narrow them down, I have to say infrastructure, healthcare, creative industry, education and energy.

And if you look into those sectors, you can all break them down into sub-sectors, he added.

Gibbons said the cooperation between the two countries emphasizes just a breath of experience, the talent and the skill that the UK has sent to Vietnam.

Its not just what the UK can do here, but also about partnership and collaboration. And thats why we both succeed as a country, he told Tuoi Tre News.

Speaking of Sundays business reception, Gibbons said the event was another example of how close the relation between the UK and Vietnam is from the political, commercial and bilateral perspectives.

So we have strategic dialogue from government to government, but we also have visits by UK companies and individuals in key sectors, he said.

With the UK set to withdraw from the European Union (EU), Vietnam is considered one of the countrys best choices for alternative markets in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), according to the consul general.

Vietnam is now the UKs third-largest trade partner in ASEAN, accounting for 14.9 percent of the total trade between the European country and the bloc, according to the Future Options for the UK-ASEAN Economic Relationship research.

British Ambassador to Vietnam Gareth Ward speaks at a business reception in Ho Chi Minh City on December 2, 2018. Photo: Tran Phuong / Tuoi Tre News

Newly-arrived British Ambassador to Vietnam Gareth Ward, who also attended Sundays business reception, shared with Tuoi Tre News the three areas that would be crucial to the cooperation between the UK and Vietnam.

The first is in education, and thats not just Vietnamese travelling to the UK to study at British universities, but now it is British universities working with Vietnamese universities to improve research and to offer degree training programs to Vietnam, and that is pretty exciting, he elaborated.

The second area of cooperation, he added, is global cooperation. The British army is working with the Vietnamese military to train peacekeepers who would be working for the United Nations, for instance, in South Sudan and Africa.

Thats alongside with capacity building in maritime law, the ambassador said. Of course we want to work more on climate change and renewable energy. We think whats important is Vietnam moves towards wind and solar energy.

Ambassador Ward said the final area is trade cooperation, with the two countries annual bilateral trade now estimated at US$5 billion.

But we would like that to grow, so we are encouraging more British companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises, to export to Vietnam, he underlined.

Britains Prince Andrew (center), the Duke of York, is seen at a business reception in Ho Chi Minh City on December 2, 2018. Photo: Tran Phuong / Tuoi Tre News

Vietnam  UK relations have recently witnessed several significant developments.

In October, Vietnamese Deputy PM Minh visited the UK and ended his trip in London with a noteworthy joint statement with UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, in which they agreed to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!Here are todays leading news stories:

Society

-- Authorities in Ho Chi Minh City are set to impose harsh punishment upon those littering along local canals, deputy chairman of the municipal Peoples Committee Tran Vinh Tuyen said during a meeting on Sunday morning.

-- The Civil Aviation Authorities of Vietnam (CAAV) has indefinitely revoked the licenses of the Filipino captain and Spanish first officer of Vietjet flight VJ 356, after the plane encountered a serious incident upon landing in the Central Highlands city of Buon Ma Thuot on November 29.

-- Hundreds of people, mainly college and university students, have queued up at the office of IIG Vietnam in District 10, Ho Chi Minh City since early in the morning over the weekend to sign up for a TOEIC test as the structure of the exam will change on February 15 , 2019.

-- Police in the north-central province of Nghe An have arrested and initiated legal proceedings against 33-year-old Le Ngoc Ha for murder, after he had used drugs and carried his two-year-old son along rooftops of several houses before dropping him. The young boy was unharmed as competent authorities were able to catch him.

-- A deputy director of an agricultural company in the Mekong Delta province of Tien Giang has turned himself to the police after stealing belongings from about eight motorbike trunks at a local restaurant on November 28.

-- An 18-year-old woman was killed after a fire broke out at a series of tenanted houses in Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City at around 2:30 am on Sunday.

-- A large amount of fish was found dead at a lake in Vinh, the capital of Nghe An Province over the past day, causing an unpleasant stench that negatively impacted the lives of nearby residents.

-- More than 300 delegates of the Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program (SSEAYP) arrived in Ho Chi Minh City on Sunday afternoon, commencing their visit to Vietnam scheduled from December 2 to 4.

Business

-- Vietnams seafood exports reached US$8 billion as of the end of November, increasing by five percent year-on-year, according to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers.

-- Vietnamese conglomerate Vingroup is expected to introduce its four Vsmart smartphone models to the market on December 14.

Sports

-- Millions of football fans across Vietnam took it to the street on Sunday night to celebrate the countrys victory over the Philippines at the semifinal first leg of the 2018 AFF Championship.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!Residents in neighborhoods across a district in Ho Chi Minh City have been voluntarily contributing parts of their valuable land to help widen local alleys, helping build a better community, and ultimately a better life for themselves.

Multiple narrow alleys across Phu Nhuan District have disappeared over the past years and are now replaced by much more spacious passageways that even automobiles can enter.

The cooperation of local residents played a vital role in the expansion of these alleys, as they agreed to turn a part of their private property into public space.

The alleyway is wider now. It looks great. If it needs to be further enlarged, I am willing to contribute another part of my land, said Le Doan Minh, 71, who lives in an alley at 19 Co Bac Street.

The passage was only six meters wide about six decades ago, Minh stated, adding that people moved here and started building their houses, narrowing the width of the alley to only three meters.

About five months ago, all people living in the alley consented to give up part of their homes to create a 4.5-meter-wide passage.

Local authorities took care of the construction, which was funded by the budget of the ward where the alley is located.

The expanded alley at 162 Phan Dang Luu Street in Phu Nhuan District. Photo: Tuoi Tre

As there is more space, more people will travel by, which will certainly benefit my business, said Nguyen Thi Lien, who runs a small grocery shop at her home down the alley.

Meanwhile, Nguyen Thi Kim Chi, another resident, expressed her relief that ambulances and fire engines can now fit into the alley.

My younger sister had a stroke two years ago and the ambulance could only stop at the entrance of the alleyway. I had to ask other men to carry her out but it was too late, Chi recalled.

Along the alley at 162 Phan Dang Luu Street in Ward 3, about 60 families have also offered some of their land for the expansion, according to the local administration.

The pathway was previously one meter wide and could only fit one motorbike at a time.

It is all for the greater good, said Pham Duc Chinh, who previously handed over 20 square meters of his yard.

Four other alleys in Ward 3, Phu Nhuan District, have also been widened over the past two years, with local residents having given up more than 1,300 square meters of land, which is worth tens of billions of dong (VND10 billion = US$428,535), said Huynh Van Vu, chairman of the wards administration.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!ABC/Randy HolmesNew Deftones music is coming in 2019.

Over the weekend, the Sacramento metallers posted an Instagram photo of their hometown's skyline, along with the hashtags #2019 and #NewMusic.

The new material will follow the 2016 Deftones album, Gore, which features the singles "Prayers/Triangles" and "Phantom Bride."

Last month, Deftones held their inaugural Dia de Los Deftones festival in San Diego. The lineup also featured Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda and rapper Future.

Copyright  2018, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.Small tea factories rue organic certification

Many factories run by small tea growers in the eastern hill districts are making the shift to organic farming as demand continues to grow in the global market but they bemoan the difficulty in getting the organic certification for the product.More than 40 ambassadors of the 45th Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program (SSEAYP) 2018 paid a visit to Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper in Ho Chi Minh City on Monday.

The visit was made after 329 SSEAYP ambassadors, who are young leaders of ten Southeast Asian countries and Japan, on Sunday afternoon disembarked from Japanese cruise ship Nippon Maru onto Cat Lai Port in the southern city, kick-starting their three-day stay in Vietnams economic hub.

As part of their activities in Ho Chi Minh City, a group of 40 young leaders and five SSEAYP officials visited Tuoi Tre at its headquarters in Phu Nhuan District on Monday morning.

Upon arriving at Tuoi Tre, the guests were received by the dailys deputy editor-in-chief Le Xuan Trung and its young journalists.

The delegates tour Tuoi Tre news hub. Photo: Duyen Phan / Tuoi Tre

In his speech after warmly welcoming the SSEAP members, Trung talked of two recent major events involving ASEAN countries - a joint statement on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) and the establishment of the ASEAN Association of Young Entrepreneurs.

On November 14, leaders of ten ASEAN countries and six partner nations expressed their determination to complete the RCEP in 2019, making it the world's largest free trade area, whereas the ASEAN Association of Young Entrepreneurs was established in November after six years of working on regulations and seeking approval from governments in the ASEAN community.

These two important events have emphasized the meaning of exchanges like ours today, in building and maintaining the traditional ties between Vietnam and ASEAN and Japan, Trung underlined.

With the milestones we have reached, we do have grounds to believe that there are many opportunities for those ties to become deeper.

Following the reception, the SSEAYP guests toured Tuoi Tres news hub and its video department, before joining a discussion session.

Tuoi Tre deputy editor-in-chief Le Xuan Trung (left) greets SSEAYP delegates. Photo: Duyen Phan / Tuoi Tre

ASEAN, or the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is a ten-member politico-economic organization whose members include Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Prior to Vietnam, the SSEAYP ship visited Brunei, the Philippines and Thailand.

The young leaders are scheduled to return to Japan on December 12 to wrap up 52 days of activities.

First organized in 1974, SSEAYP is a cooperation program run by the governments of the ten ASEAN nations and Japan with a view to fostering the friendship among their youths.

This year the SSEAYP program lasts from October 23 to December 13.

Vietnam has taken part in the program since 1995.

Below are some photos at the event:

Tuoi Tre deputy editor-in-chief Le Xuan Trung delivers a speech. Photo: Duyen Phan / Tuoi Tre

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!A deputy chairwoman of the decision-making People's Council of a ward in the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai was shot dead by an officer from the local military command, police confirmed on Monday.

The murder took place during the weekly flag ceremony on Monday morning in the auditorium at the headquarters of the People's Council of Doan Ket Ward in the province's Ayun Pa Town.

The gunman, Bui Van Hieu, who is deputy head of the ward's military command, stormed into the venue with an apparent AK assault rifle and opened fire in the air, before shooting at people in the auditorium.

Kpa H'Ven, deputy chairwoman of the ward People's Council, was injured in the shooting and failed to join others as they escaped the room.

Police were able to besiege Hieu when he was holding H'Ven hostage at gunpoint, but the gunman eventually shot her to death before shooting himself in an apparent suicide attempt.

Hieu is receiving treatment for his criticial injuries, according to the police.

Phan Thanh Tam, deputy police chief of Gia Lai Province, said a working team is investigating the case.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!A UK couple, named John and Daniella, was on holiday in New York City when it happened. John proposed to Daniella on Friday in the middle of iconic Times Square. When she said yes, he got so excited he dropped the engagement ring through a grate and into a drain. The couple could be seen trying to retrieve the ring with no success.

As reported by the BBC, the moment was captured on CCTV footage and the New York Police Department (NYPD) went to work to rescue the ring and clean it. They then hit social media in an effort to find the couple. They got lucky and found out it was a couple from the UK, who had since travelled home.

Man loses fiancees ring down a grate

CCTV footage showed the couple in Times Square and while it doesnt show the moment John popped the question, it does show the suitor getting down on one knee  to try and retrieve the engagement ring he had dropped through the grate.

His fiancee, later named as Daniella, can be seen putting her hands to her face as she realises what has happened. She then also gets down on her knees as they both try to retrieve the lost engagement ring through the grate. However, they are unsuccessful in their efforts.

NYPD officers rescue the ring

NYPD officers clearly have a romantic side to their natures and they headed to Times Square. As they had access to open the grate, they were more successful and safely retrieved the ring, taking it for cleaning.

As reported by CBS New York, the NYPD released footage of the pair on Twitter, asking the public to help them in their search for the couple. Their humorous tweet said the man was wanted for dropping his fiancees ring in the grate in Times Square. The tweet said she had said Yes to the proposal, but the man was so excited he dropped the ring.

They went on to say their special ops officers had rescued the ring and wanted to return it to the happy couple, calling on the public to help.

They sent out a further tweet on Sunday with an image of the now clean ring, saying there was a photo of the ring their officers had rescued and cleaned and calling on the public to help find the happy couple, so the ring could be returned to them.

One witty person responded by saying they hoped the couple would be grate-ful.

Heres a photo of the ring our officers recovered (and cleaned!) Call 1-800-577-TIPS or DM @NYPDTips if you know the happy couple so we can return it to them! pic.twitter.com/hzFXxuMVJW  NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 1, 2018

A further tweet included more images of the couple.

We still havent found our almost engaged couple WANTED for dropping their ring in Times Square. Here are some more photos, does anyone recognize them? For a fairy-tale ending, call 800-577-TIPS or DM @NYPDTips.  pic.twitter.com/c2bkJqd7q8  NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 2, 2018

The NYPD eventually found the couple in question, who had since returned home to the UK but sent a further tweet thanking everyone who had shared the story.

It was thanks to retweets that they tracked down the happily engaged couple and are now making arrangements to get the ring back where it belongs  on the fiancees finger.

We would like to thank everyone who shared this story! The (now) happy couple is back in their home country, but thanks to your retweets they heard we were looking for them! Were making arrangements to get them their ring back. Congratulations! https://t.co/rXHxxkwClm  NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 2, 2018

Their final tweet before the case was closed showed  and named  the happy couple while thanking Twitter for the help.Logo Swiss stock exchange operator SIX Group is seen in Zurich The logo Swiss stock exchange operator SIX Group is seen at the entrance hall of the stock exchange in Zurich, Switzerland December 3, 2018. REUTERS/Arnd Wiegmann

By Huw Jones

LONDON (Reuters) - The European Union should allow EU investors to continue trading Swiss shares from January and avoid a stand-off with Switzerland that would harm competition, a senior stock exchange industry official said on Monday.

Alasdair Haynes, CEO of the London-based Aquis exchange <AQX.L>, said the EU should grant a year's extension to allow the SIX Exchange in Zurich to serve investors across the bloc.

If denied this permission known as equivalence, Switzerland, which is not a member of the EU, has said it would retaliate by banning the trading of Swiss shares on platforms in the EU.

"We are lobbying very aggressively for equivalence to be granted, even if extended by another year. It's incredibly disappointing to see that politics is playing a part here," Haynes told Reuters.

The bulk of trading in Swiss shares like heavyweights Nestle, Novartis, Roche and UBS takes place in Zurich, which would lose some business if equivalence was denied.

Significant amounts are also traded on rival platforms in the EU, such as Aquis, Cboe Europe <CBOE.Z> and the London Stock Exchange's (LSE) <LSE.L> Turquoise, meaning they could lose business as well due to the Swiss tit-for-tat ban.

Haynes said equivalence should be granted by the EU's executive European Commission if the Swiss Exchange fulfils all the technical requirements for that, which he believes it does.

Equivalence was only granted for a year so Brussels could work out its future relationship with another financial centre, Britain, which is leaving the EU next March, Haynes said.

Given there is still uncertainty over Brexit, equivalence ought to be granted to the Swiss for another year, he added.

"We are monitoring the situation on a daily basis," Haynes said. Aquis trades 5 percent of Swiss shares in Europe.

Mark Hemsley, president of Cboe Europe, which trades over 20 percent of Swiss shares, said the EU could end up extending permission to Switzerland at the last moment.

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"I am prepared for the fact that we may not be trading Swiss stocks in the first three months of next year, but the way these things have been left, everyone is leaving every possible door open until the last minute," Hemsley told Reuters.

Once Britain has left the EU next March, it and Switzerland could in theory agree that Swiss shares resume trading on platforms in London, Hemsley added.

The LSE declined to comment.

Haynes said if the Swiss ban went ahead, it would mark a return to "monopoly pricing", counter to the EU's securities rules which aim to foster competition and customer choice.

(Reporting by Huw Jones; Editing by Alison Williams and Mark Potter)PARIS (Reuters) - The European Commission has proposed reinstating anti-subsidy duties on imports of Argentine biodiesel after massive shipments of cheap biodiesel from Latin America into the European Union threatened its industry, an EU document seen by Reuters shows.

The plan follows an investigation requested by EU producers of fuels made from vegetable and recycled oil, which have been hit hard by cheap imports since the EU slashed duties last year in response to a ruling by the World Trade Organization.

The proposal needs to be approved by EU member states.

The European Commission decided not to reinstate provisional import tariffs on Argentine biodiesel in September, though it considered imports were subsidised and a threat to the EU industry, saying it needed to collect further information.

"On the basis of the conclusions reached by the Commission...a definitive countervailing duty should be imposed to prevent the materialisation of the imminent threat of material injury caused to the Union industry by the subsidised imports," the Commission said in its proposal.

Proposed duties range from 25.0 percent to 33.4 percent depending on companies, the document showed.

The EU's removal of duties on low-price biodiesel from Argentina, as well as from Indonesia, last September and subsequent surge in imports has forced European producers to cut production.

"Even if this still needs to be confirmed by member states it is good news for the industry," European Biodiesel Board Chairwoman Kristell Guizouarn told Reuters.

(Reporting by Gus Trompiz and Sybille de La Hamaide; Editing by Mark Potter and Peter Graff)If you own shares in Magnolia Colombia Ltd (CVE:MCO) then its worth thinking about how it contributes to the volatility of your portfolio, overall. In finance, Beta is a measure of volatility. Volatility is considered to be a measure of risk in modern finance theory. Investors may think of volatility as falling into two main categories. The first type is company specific volatility. Investors use diversification across uncorrelated stocks to reduce this kind of price volatility across the portfolio. The second type is the broader market volatility, which you cannot diversify away, since it arises from macroeconomic factors which directly affects all the stocks on the market.

Some stocks mimic the volatility of the market quite closely, while others demonstrate muted, exagerrated or uncorrelated price movements. Some investors use beta as a measure of how much a certain stock is impacted by market risk (volatility). While we should keep in mind that Warren Buffett has cautioned that Volatility is far from synonymous with risk, beta is still a useful factor to consider. To make good use of it you must first know that the beta of the overall market is one. A stock with a beta below one is either less volatile than the market, or more volatile but not corellated with the overall market. In comparison a stock with a beta of over one tends to be move in a similar direction to the market in the long term, but with greater changes in price.

Check out our latest analysis for Magnolia Colombia

What MCOs beta value tells investors

Given that it has a beta of 1.47, we can surmise that the Magnolia Colombia share price has been fairly sensitive to market volatility (over the last 5 years). Based on this history, investors should be aware that Magnolia Colombia are likely to rise strongly in times of greed, but sell off in times of fear. Many would argue that beta is useful in position sizing, but fundamental metrics such as revenue and earnings are more important overall. You can see Magnolia Colombias revenue and earnings in the image below.

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TSXV:MCO Income Statement Export December 3rd 18

Does MCOs size influence the expected beta?

Magnolia Colombia is a rather small company. It has a market capitalisation of CA$4.1m, which means it is probably under the radar of most investors. It has a relatively high beta, suggesting it is fairly actively traded for a company of its size. Because it takes less capital to move the share price of a small company like this, when a stock this size is actively traded it is quite often more sensitive to market volatility than similar large companies.

What this means for you:

Since Magnolia Colombia has a reasonably high beta, its worth considering why it is so heavily influenced by broader market sentiment. For example, it might be a high growth stock or have a lot of operating leverage in its business model. In order to fully understand whether MCO is a good investment for you, we also need to consider important company-specific fundamentals such as Magnolia Colombias financial health and performance track record. I highly recommend you dive deeper by considering the following:

Financial Health: Are MCOs operations financially sustainable? Balance sheets can be hard to analyze, which is why weve done it for you. Check out our financial health checks here. Past Track Record: Has MCO been consistently performing well irrespective of the ups and downs in the market? Go into more detail in the past performance analysis and take a look at the free visual representations of MCOs historicals for more clarity. Other High-Performing Stocks: Are there other stocks that provide better prospects with proven track records? Explore 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.Nayak Paudel is a crime reporter for The Kathmandu Post. Since joining the Post in 2018, he has also written on health issues.Astronauts have blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) less than two months after the previous Soyuz mission failed.

Astronauts Anne McClain from American space agency Nasa, David Saint-Jacques from the Canadian Space Agency and Oleg Kononenko of the Russian space agency Roscosmos left aboard the Russian spacecraft from Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan just after 11.31am GMT.

Astronauts Anne McClain, Oleg Kononenko and David Saint-Jacques (NASA/PA)

The latest trip to the ISS comes after two astronauts from the US and Russia were forced to make an emergency landing on October 11, following an emergency shutdown of the three-stage booster at its second stage.

Nasa astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmoss Alexei Ovchinin safely landed back on Earth in an emergency capsule shortly after taking off.

The incident was the first manned launch failure for the Russian space programme since September 1983, when a Soyuz craft exploded on the launch pad. Soviet cosmonauts Vladimir Titov and Gennady Strekalov jettisoned and landed safely near the launch pad.

LIFTOFF! Shooting into the sky at 6:31am ET, the Soyuz rocket carrying @AstroAnnimal, @Astro_DavidS and Oleg Kononenko leaves Earth on six-hour journey to their new home on @Space_Station. Watch: https://t.co/i3hRugl4X4 pic.twitter.com/xrgYvSg8UQ  NASA (@NASA) December 3, 2018

If the launch of Soyuz MS-11 goes to plan on Monday, the trio should arrive at the ISS about six hours later.

We are psychologically and technically prepared for blast-off and any situation which, God forbid, may occur on board, said crew commander Kononenko in a news conference.Zsolt Hernadi, chairman and CEO of the Hungarian oil and gas group MOL, gestures during an interview with Reuters in Budapest, Hungary, November 4, 2016. REUTERS/Laszlo Balogh

ZAGREB (Reuters) - A Croatian court ordered on Monday the detention of the head of Hungarian energy group MOL, Zsolt Hernadi, who is being tried in Croatia in absentia for allegedly bribing the country's former prime minister.

Last month, international police organisation Interpol decided to renew an arrest warrant for Hernadi.

Hungary has so far refused to heed the warrant, which was issued several years ago.

Hernadi has been indicted in Croatia for allegedly bribing former Prime Minister Ivo Sanader in 2008 to allow MOL to become the key decision-maker in Croatian energy company INA, in which MOL is the biggest, but not the majority, shareholder.

The trial of Sanader and Hernadi, who both deny any wrongdoing, began in October.

The detention order announced on Monday was issued by the Zagreb county court, spokesman Kresimir Devcic said.

MOL owns close to 50 percent of INA. Zagreb owns around 45percent. The two have been at odds for years over management rights and investment policy in INA and two years ago the Croatian government announced a plan to buy back INA shares owned by MOL.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met his Croatian counterpart Andrej Plenkovic during a regional summit in Zagreb on Monday. Both agreed the problems related to INA cast a shadow on otherwise good bilateral relations between the countries.

"It's like a thorn under the nail. Not a big issue, but affects the mood. We want to take that thorn out," Orban told a news conference after the meeting.

The two prime ministers agreed the solution should be Croatia buying back INA shares if business cooperation was no longer possible, but there remained the issue of determining a price.

They also said the arrest warrant for Hernadi was a matter for the judicial authorities.

(Reporting by Igor Ilic; Editing by Mark Potter)President Donald Trump has reached out to Pakistans prime minister, sending Imran Khan a letter seeking Islamabads co-operation in bringing the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year war in neighbouring Afghanistan, officials have said.

The development could help ease tension between Washington and Islamabad.

Relations soured after Mr Trump last month alleged that Pakistan harboured al Qaida leader Osama bin Laden despite getting billions of dollars in American aid.

Pakistans foreign ministry quoted Mr Trump as saying in the letter that he considers his most important regional priority achieving a negotiated settlement to the Afghan war and that he was seeking Pakistans support and facilitation toward that goal.

President Donald Trump (Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP)

It said Mr Trump acknowledged the war has cost dearly both the United State and Pakistan.

The ministry also said Mr Trump emphasised Pakistan and Washington should explore opportunities to work together and renew their partnership.

Pakistani authorities did not release the letter, which information minister Fawad Chaudhry said Mr Khan received on Monday morning.

The ministry welcomed the US presidents outreach, saying: Pakistan has always advocated a political settlement to end war in Afghanistan.

Pakistan reiterates its commitment to play the role of facilitator in good faith, the ministry statement said.

Donald Trump had accused Pakistan of harbouring Osama bin Laden (FBI/PA)

Peace and stability in Afghanistan remains a shared responsibility.

Pakistani media outlets, whose reporters met with Mr Khan in Islamabad on Monday, quoted the prime minister as saying that Pakistan would continue its efforts to help peace in Afghanistan.

When Mr Trump levelled his accusation about bin Laden last month, Islamabad said such baseless rhetoric  was totally unacceptable.

Mr Khan at the time stressed the United States had provided what he described as a minuscule 20 billion US dollars in aid to Pakistan.

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Trumps false assertions add insult to the injury Pak has suffered in US WoT in terms of lives lost & destabilised & economic costs. He needs to be informed abt historical facts. Pak has suffered enough fighting US's war. Now we will do what is best for our people & our interests  Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 19, 2018

Bin Laden was killed by US commandos in a surprise raid in May 2011 in the Pakistani garrison city of Abbottabad.

According to Imtiaz Gul, a Pakistani analyst, Mr Trumps letter indicates there is a realisation within the US administration that Pakistans co-operation is vital to ensuring peace in Afghanistan.

Despite near-daily attacks by the Taliban, who now hold sway in about half of Afghanistans territory, the Trump administration has stepped up efforts to find a peaceful solution to the protracted war.

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad was expected to arrive in Pakistan this week during his visit to the region to revive peace talks with the Taliban.

According to the US State Department, Mr Khalilzad will travel to Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Belgium, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar with a delegation from December 2 to December 20.ROME (Reuters) - The Italian government and the European Commission are both committed to reaching a rapid solution to the dispute over Rome's 2019 budget, the economy ministry said on Monday.

Economy Minister Giovanni Tria met Commission Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis ahead of a meeting of euro zone finance ministers in Brussels, Tria's ministry said in a statement.

"Tria and Dombrovskis expressed the common will to find a solution to the dispute over the budget as soon as possible," the ministry said.

The Commission has rejected Italy's expansionary 2019 fiscal package, saying it will not reduce the country's large public debt as EU rules require.

(Reporting By Gavin Jones; Editing by Crispian Balmer)LONDON (Reuters) - Former foreign secretary Boris Johnson said on Sunday that Prime Minister Theresa May should publish the legal advice she was given on her Brexit deal, joining calls by the Labour Party.

In his weekly column in the Telegraph newspaper, Johnson, who quit his role in protest at May's Brexit strategy, said the advice would show that a so-called backstop arrangement for Northern Ireland was "a great steel trap that is about to clamp its jaws around our hind limbs and prevent our escape".

"Yes, of course the public is entitled to see the legal advice from the attorney general to the prime minister," he wrote. "It is outrageous that the public should be prevented from knowing the full legal implications of this appalling deal  when it is their rights, their freedoms, their hard-won suffrage, that are about to be bartered away."

May is battling to prevent an exit deal that she has painstakingly negotiated with the European Union being voted down in parliament on Dec. 11.

(Reporting by Elizabeth Piper; Editing by Kevin Liffey)Wounded Houthi fighters wait at Sanaa airport during his evacuation from Yemen Wounded Houthi fighters wait at Sanaa airport during his evacuation from Yemen December 3, 2018. REUTERS/Mohamed al-Sayaghi

By Mohamed Ghobari and Aziz El Yaakoubi

ADEN/DUBAI (Reuters) - Yemeni Houthi officials are expected to travel to Sweden shortly for talks as early as Wednesday to end the nearly four-year-old war after the Saudi-led coalition allowed the evacuation of some of their wounded for treatment.

Prospects for convening talks have risen as Western allies press Saudi Arabia, leader of the Sunni Muslim alliance battling the Iranian-aligned Houthis, over a war that has killed more than 10,000 people and pushed Yemen to the brink of famine.

U.N. special envoy Martin Griffiths arrived in the Houthi-held capital Sanaa on Monday to escort the Houthi delegation, a U.N. source told Reuters. The Saudi-backed government has said it would follow the Houthis to the talks, the first since 2016.

The peace talks may start on Wednesday, two sources familiar with the matter said. Griffiths shuttled between the parties to salvage a previous round that collapsed in September after the Houthis failed to show up.

Western powers, which provide arms and intelligence to the coalition, may now have greater leverage to demand action on Yemen after outrage over the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Riyadh's consulate in Istanbul led to increased scrutiny of the kingdom's activities in the region.

The U.S. Senate is due to consider this week a resolution to end support for the conflict, seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and its arch-foe in the Middle East, Iran.

Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi politburo, told Reuters their delegation would travel to Sweden Tuesday morning on a plane provided by Kuwait and accompanied by Griffiths.

A post on the U.N. envoy's Twitter account thanked all parties for facilitating the evacuation of the 50 wounded fighters on Monday to Oman for treatment.

British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt tweeted that the evacuation as a "positive 1st step" ahead of the talks.

The coalition said in a statement it had agreed on the evacuation "for humanitarian considerations and as part of confidence-building measures" ahead of the talks, which are also due to focus on a transitional governing body.

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The Iranian Foreign Ministry said it backed the talks and was ready to help find a political solution, Iranian state TV reported on Monday.

LOOMING FAMINE

Analysts said both parties showing up for the talks would be an achievement in itself, even if there are no concrete outcomes as Griffiths tries to overcome deep mistrust on all sides.

"Neither side wishes to be blamed for the dire consequences of the looming famine, which is starting to become a reality," said Elisabeth Kendall, a senior research fellow in Arabic and Islamic Studies at Oxford University.

"But it remains to be seen whether the political will is really there to make the necessary concessions for peace."

Some 8.4 million Yemenis are facing starvation, although the United Nations has warned that will probably rise to 14 million. Three-quarters of impoverished Yemen's population, or 22 million people, require aid.

The Arab alliance intervened in the war in 2015 to restore the internationally recognised government of Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi but has bogged down in military stalemate, despite superior air power, since seizing the southern port of Aden that year.

The Houthis, who are more adept at guerrilla warfare, hold most population centres including Sanaa and the Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, a lifeline for millions that is now the focus of the war.

Griffiths hopes to reach a deal on reopening Sanaa airport and securing a prisoner swap and a ceasefire in Hodeidah as a foundation for a wider ceasefire, which would include a halt to coalition air strikes that have killed thousands of civilians as well as Houthi missile attacks on Saudi cities.

(Additional reporting by Hesham Hajali in CAIRO and Mohammed Ghobari in Aden, Writing by Ghaida Ghantous; Editing by Toby Chopra; Editing by Mark Heinrich)WASHINGTON (AP)  The dinner table diplomacy that Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping of China conducted over the weekend produced something as vague as it was valuable: an agreement to keep talking. Forged over grilled sirloin at the Group of 20 summit Saturday in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the ceasefire Trump and Xi agreed to Saturday night illustrated that the leaders of the world's two largest economies can at least find some common ground, however tentative and ill-defined it might be. The truce pulled the United States and China back from an escalating trade war that was threatening world economic growth and had set global investors on edge.

BEIJING (AP)  Buy more U.S. exports? Done. Tinker with technology tactics that irk Washington and other trading partners? Maybe. But scrap those plans, seen by Beijing as a path to prosperity and influence? Probably never. The agreement by President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on a cease fire on tariffs postpones the threat of more disruption for China's exporters and their Asian suppliers. Some economists said Xi might be ready to negotiate in earnest. Still, Beijing gave no sign of a changed stance on technology ambitions that Washington says violate Chinese market-opening obligations and might threaten U.S.

SHANGHAI (AP)  U.S. President Donald Trump is claiming victory in getting China to designate fentanyl a controlled substance, but China took that step against the deadly opioid years ago. What's actually on the table is a far more sweeping shift in the way China regulates synthetic opioids. The question is how China will follow through on its words. China's stated intention is to expand controls on all varieties of drugs that mimic fentanyl, a step advocated by U.S. officials eager to end the game of regulatory whack-a-mole with chemists who can manufacture novel opioids faster than they can be banned.

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP)  South Korea's president said Tuesday no timeframe has been set for a historic visit to Seoul by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un despite both hoping it will take place this year. President Moon Jae-in said more important than the timing of the visit is that it would accelerate the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and give impetus to talks between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump. "Ever since South and North Korea were divided into two countries, this will be the first time that a North Korean leader will visit South Korea," Moon said through an interpreter.

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PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP)  Pakistani police say gunmen have opened fire on a vehicle carrying a local TV journalist in northwestern Pakistan, killing him and wounding his cameraman. District police chief Qazi Jamil-ur-Rehman said Tuesday that journalist Noor-ul-Hassan was killed in the overnight attack in the northwestern city of Peshawar, the capital of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province which borders Afghanistan. No one has claimed responsibility and authorities say police are still trying to determine the motive for the attack. Hassan worked for a regional TV station and is not known to have any enemies. Such attacks on journalists in Pakistan are common. In some cases the assailants have never been found.

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP)  A Sri Lankan court on Monday ordered disputed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and his ministers to refrain from carrying out their duties as it hears an appeal against them. While the ruling by the Court of Appeal is an interim order, it is yet another setback for Rajapaksa, who has held on to the position of prime minister with President Maithripala Sirisena's backing despite losing two no-confidence votes. The parliamentary speaker announced that Rajapaksa's government was dissolved after the passage of the no-confidence motions. Parliament has also passed resolutions to cut off funds to the offices of Rajapaksa and his ministers.

BAIKONUR, Kazakhstan (AP)  Three astronauts who were launched into space aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft Monday entered the International Space Station nearly eight hours later, a relief to relatives and scientists months after a rocket failure aborted another mission. The hatch of the capsule carrying NASA astronaut Anne McClain, David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency and Oleg Kononenko of Russian space agency Roscosmos was opened while the station was flying over the southern coast of Yemen. The three were greeted upon arrival Monday by the station's current crew members, who had waited outside the hatch after the astronauts' capsule docked and underwent safety checks.

MANILA, Philippines (AP)  Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, whose controversial war on drugs has cost thousands of lives, says he used marijuana to keep awake at a recent regional meeting, but later disavowed his assertion as a joke. Duterte made the comment Monday at an awards ceremony where he talked about attending last month's meeting in Singapore of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and how the schedules of such gatherings that run from morning until late at night is grueling. "I use marijuana to keep me awake," the 73-year-old Duterte said, referring to the Singapore meeting. However, he later told reporters he was joking.

SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  South Korea's president says U.S. President Donald Trump told him he has a "very friendly view" of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and wants to grant his wishes if he denuclearizes. North Korea has sought security guarantees from the U.S. and relief from international sanctions. President Moon Jae-in's office quoted Moon as saying that Trump asked him to convey those messages to the North Korean leader if he visits Seoul this year as he promised. Moon spoke to reporters on Saturday aboard his presidential plane en route to New Zealand from Argentina, where he met Trump on the sidelines of a Group of 20 Nations summit.

HONG KONG (AP)  Early last year, a little-known Chinese researcher turned up at an elite meeting in Berkeley, California, where scientists and ethicists were discussing a technology that had shaken the field to its core  an emerging tool for "editing" genes, the strings of DNA that form the blueprint of life. The young scientist, He Jiankui, saw the power of this tool, called CRISPR, to transform not only genes, but also his own career. In visits to the United States, he sought out CRISPR pioneers such as Jennifer Doudna of the University of California, Berkeley, and Stanford University's Dr.888poker LIVE London: Antoine Labat Builds Wall of Chips, 21 Remain

December 03 2018 Christian Zetzsche

Day 2 of the 2018 888poker LIVE Festival London 1,100 Main Event is in the books, and the field of 656 entries has been whittled down to the final 21 hopefuls after ten levels at the Aspers Casino at Westfield Stratford City. The lion's share of the 649,440 prize pool is still up for grabs, and all remaining finalists already have 6,100 locked up for their efforts.

Leading the field by quite some margin is Antoine Labat with 2,825,000 in chips, well ahead of Christos Xanthopoulos (1,680,000) and Hak-Hyun Lee (1,555,000). Another four players bagged up more than a million in chips including James Williams (1,365,000) and 888poker.es ambassador Fernando Pons (1,050,000). Both Labat and Pons have another seven-figure story in common, as they finished in 9th place at the WSOP Main Event for $1,000,000 in 2018 and 2016 respectively.

Other notables still in contention include Lam Van Trinh (910,000), Philippe Souki (890,000), Antonios Onoufriou (795,000), Christopher Kyriacou (500,000), and Kelly Saxby (365,000). 888poker ambassador Ana Marquez was eliminated in one of the final hands of the night by Labat, 2018 WSOP Main Event champion John Cynn departed in 36th place.

888poker LIVE London 1,100 Main Event Schedule

Day Date Time Entries Survivors Further Information 1a November 29th 2018 18:00 97 23 Play 12 levels of 40 minutes each, re-entry available 1b November 30th 2018 13:00 128 39 Play 12 levels of 40 minutes each, re-entry available 1c November 30th 2018 18:00 140 41 Play 12 levels of 40 minutes each, re-entry available 1d December 1st 2018 13:00 208 64 Play 12 levels of 40 minutes each, re-entry available 1e December 1st 2018 19:00 66 27 Play 12 levels of 20 minutes each, re-entry available 2 December 2nd 2018 14:00 639 194 Registration closes at start; 10 levels of 60 minutes each scheduled 3 December 2nd 2018 14:00 656 21 Play down to a champion; live stream with hole cards

Action of the Day of the 888poker LIVE Penultimate Day

The registration for the Main Event remained open until the first card was dealt and another 17 players entered with 12 big blinds and the hope of early run good. Among them was Charlie Carrel, who had not stepped into a casino for half a year, as well as David Peters and Terry Jordon. There was no happy end for Carrel, but Jordon and Peters both cashed.

Notables that had to leave empty-handed much earlier than they'd hoped for included Fraser MacIntyre, Conor Beresford, Oliver Price, defending champion Tom Hall, Tamer Kamel, Kalidou Sow, Kevin Allen, Chris Da-Silva and Ludovic Geilich. For Da-Silva, there would be a happy end in the early morning hours as he topped a field of 145 entries in the 150 The Whale Side Event. The guaranteed prize pool was more than doubled, and the top 18 spots shared 19,575 with Da-Silva taking home the trophy and 5,070 for his efforts.

For team 888poker, the day started disastrously as Vivian Saliba and Sofia Lovgren both exited in the first level of the day. Saliba lost a flip with pocket queens against ace-king and Lovgren ran with ace-jack suited into pocket aces. Fellow ambassadors Chris Moorman, Dominik Nitsche, and Parker Talbot also busted well before the money spots.

Florence Allera bubbled the 2018 888poker LIVE Festival London 1,100 Main Event

Ultimately, it was Florence Allera that wound up as the bubble. There were two all in and call on separate tables, and Mark Yi doubled with aces against the queens of Orpen Kisacikoglu. Allera had flopped a set of fours, but Fuad Serhan turned a set of queens, the remaining chips only went in after a blank river.

From there on out, the eliminations came at a quick pace and included such notables as Michael Mizrachi (61st place, 2,300), Benny Glaser (56th place, 2,300), Romain Lewis (50th place, 2,600), Eoghan O'Dea (46th place, 2,600) and David Peters (41st place, 3,000). Peters, who came fresh off a trip from the Master Classics of Poker in Amsterdam, had his return flights to the United States booked for Tuesday via London and heard about the event, late registered and that decision paid off. Peters' run came to an end in a three-way all-in with king-queen over on the feature table. Ramon Miquel Munoz won the side pot with ace-queen and online qualifier Martyn Duell flopped quads with pocket sixes to triple up.

In the final break of the night, 36 players remained, and six of them bowed out in quick succession. Among them was also John Cynn, who was left short after paying off the two pair of Christos Xanthopoulos, and Cynn then got it in with seven-trey out of the big blind only for Iaron Lightbourne to deal the final blow holding ace-four.

John Cynn

Among the big names left, Thomas Muehloecker ran up his stack in the early stages of the day but fell short of the final three tables. By then, Antoine Labat had seized control over the outer tables and was seemingly involved in every bigger pot. Despite doubling several short stacks, Labat stayed near the top of the leaderboard, and two late eliminations cemented the status of chip leader for the Frenchman.

In a key hand, Labat turned a wheel with ace-trey suited and check-shoved into Iaron Lightbourne, who called all in with queens only to find himself drawing dead on a seven-high turn. Last but not least, Labat also claimed the stack of 888poker ambassador Ana Marquez when his ace-queen suited flopped best against the ace-king suited of Marquez.

No Day 3 for 888poker ambassador Ana Marquez

All remaining 21 players will return on Monday, December 3rd, 2018, to the poker tables at the Aspers Casino as of 2 p.m. local time to play down to a champion. The blinds recommence at 15,000/25,000 with a big blind ante of 25,000, and the live stream of the feature table kicks off after the first break at approximately 4.15 p.m. local time. The PokerNews live reporting team will be right there until a champion is crowned here in London so check out the 888poker LIVE London Main Event updates.1. Yes. Nonprofit youth organizations are underfunded in the city. Its a good decision.

2. Yes. In conjunction with city-run programs, it will provide needed opportunities.

3. No. The money should be used to benefit all residents, not just the citys youth.

4. No. The funds should be invested in the area where the project is being developed..

5. Unsure. Its hard to say whether its an appropriate use of the money.

Vote

View ResultsThe PlayStation Awards bestowed "Monster Hunter World" with the coveted Quadruple Platinum Prize, an award created solely to honor those elite games that succeed in shipping over four million copies.

While the ceremony permits Japanese and Asian fans to vote for their favorite titles published during a specific period, the PlayStation Awards is chiefly concerned with the commercial side of things. As sales are the primary marker, an argument can be made that Sony's ceremony is among the more legitimate in the business. Subjectivity is simply not part of the equation.

"The Last of Us Remastered" and "Persona 5" secured a Platinum Prize for moving over one million units.

Capcom's best-selling game ever

Published during January 2018, "Monster Hunter: World" drew near-universal praise from critics. Sitting with an impressive aggregate score of 90 percent on Metacritic.com, the Action RPG earned praise for its thrilling gameplay, gorgeous visuals, and accessibility.

Well-known for its crushing difficulty, Capcom's franchise can quickly overwhelm anyone unfamiliar with the series; however, "Monster Hunter: World" is comfortably the least intimidating entry. Selling more than 10 million units across all platforms, Capcom's strategy clearly paid dividends!

Fans vote for 'God of War,' 'Marvel's Spider-Man,' and 'Fortnite'

Any game released between October 2017 and September 2018 was eligible for the PlayStation Awards' User's Choice Awards, with the ten highest voted titles winning the prize. Unsurprisingly, "Monster Hunter World" managed to rank among this list, but some of the other entries are slightly more unexpected.

Discuss this news on Eunomia

As two of Sony's biggest exclusives of the year, "God of War" and "Marvel's Spider-Man" were shoe-ins for the award, while "Fortnite's" inclusion should amaze nobody.

The latest entries in astonishingly popular Japanese franchises, "Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age" and "The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel IV ~The End of Saga~" received enough votes to justify a spot.

The turn-based JRPGs were joined by "Dark Souls Remastered," "Yakuza: Kiwami 2," and "Assassin's Creed Odyssey." Last but certainly not least, "Detroit: Become Human" rounded up the PlayStation Awards' fan-voted segment.

Sony also honored "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim VR," "Gran Turismo Sport," and "No Heroes Allowed! VR" for their contributions to PlayStation VR.past daily news Sep 13 (1) Sep 09 (15) Sep 06 (12) Sep 04 (10) Sep 03 (10) Aug 31 (17) Aug 29 (14) Aug 26 (13) Aug 22 (11) Aug 21 (12) Aug 19 (21) Aug 14 (6) Aug 13 (10) Aug 10 (10) Aug 08 (9) Aug 07 (10) Aug 06 (10) Aug 05 (8) Aug 03 (8) Aug 02 (7) Aug 01 (7) Jul 31 (14) Jul 29 (1) Jul 27 (7) Jul 25 (5) Jul 24 (10) Jul 22 (11) Jul 19 (16) Jul 17 (6) Jul 16 (10) Jul 15 (13) Jul 12 (7) Jul 11 (5) Jul 10 (8) Jul 08 (8) Jul 07 (3) Jul 06 (5) Jul 05 (8) Jul 04 (11) Jul 03 (8) Jul 02 (7) Jul 01 (5) Jun 30 (8) Jun 28 (7) Jun 27 (8) Jun 26 (7) Jun 25 (8) Jun 24 (6) Jun 23 (6) Jun 22 (9) Jun 20 (5) Jun 19 (9) Jun 18 (8) Jun 15 (9) Jun 13 (13) Jun 11 (11) Jun 09 (19) Jun 06 (10) Jun 04 (10) Jun 03 (8) Jun 01 (6) May 31 (5) May 30 (5) May 29 (6) May 28 (7) May 27 (7) May 26 (6) May 25 (4) May 23 (6) May 22 (6) May 21 (4) May 20 (7) May 19 (9) May 18 (4) May 17 (6) May 16 (5) May 15 (7) May 14 (3) May 13 (3) May 12 (9) May 10 (3) May 09 (7) May 08 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I recently rewatched 12 Angry Men with The Philosophy Club at the University of Iowa as part of their Owl of Minerva film series. The 1957 film has the late, great Henry Fonda as the lone holdout on a jury ready to convict a poor, abused 18-year-old boy for allegedly stabbing his father to death. Over one long, tense evening (shown in something close to real-time), juror #8  none of the jurors are identified by name, only number  forces the rest of the jury to methodically reexamined the evidence. Its not a courtroom drama, its a jury-room drama in which only 3 of 1:36 minutes of running time take place outside the sweaty, claustrophobic jury room. The film is intense, moving, and effective. Afterwards, I made the following remarks.

The number of jurors  the 12, as they are starkly described in the 2007 Russian remake of 12 Angry Men  is not entirely random. We have the Marquis de Condorcet, at least in part, to thank for that number. Condorcet was a moderate democrat during the French Revolution. He advocated universal suffrage and was an early advocate of universal primary education. He went into hiding after voting against the death penalty for Louis XVI, but was captured and died in his cell nine months later. Ironically, his warders had lost track of who he was by the time he died and he was identified only by the copy of Horaces Epistles he had been carrying when he was arrested.

Condorcet had studied juries and concluded that, under the right circumstance juries and, by extension voting, is an extremely effective procedure for getting right answers. This was a consequence of his famous Jury Theorem. I wont rehearse the mathematics here. But on an issue with two alternatives, where the decision is made independently by each participant, where there is also an objectively right decision, and each decision-maker has a greater than 50% chance of making that right decision a group of 5 or more people have a high likelihood of making the correct decision, a group of 12 has a higher likelihood of giving the correct verdict, and a group of a 1000 or more is nearly certain  out to several decimal places certain  to make the right call. In other words, if we think of a jury as a kind of procedure to determine the truth of a question, the more the better, but 12 makes a solid, practicable number.

We might even think of Condorcets theorem as an epistemic argument for democracy. Where the 12 might get you to the right verdict in a courtroom, tens of thousands of voters, even millions in some elections, will give you near certainty that you have the right answer. Are democratic procedures a machine for generating answers to difficult questions?

Unfortunately, not. Here are just some of the reasons. For democratic voting its not clear that there is an objectively right answer or that the choices are always binary. Even with juries, where we might think that there is always a binary choice, in that the accused is objectively either guilty or innocent, as we will see later, these assumptions may not hold. More importantly, and sadly, we have no reason to suppose, in most real-life cases, that the decision makers have a better than 50% chance of being right. Indeed, where political ideology systematically distorts decision-making, we have reason to assume that people are, in fact, accurate less than 50% of the time. And, unfortunately, the Jury Theorem works in either direction. Where a large group of people are wrong more often than right, they are nearly certain to be wrong on any given vote. As the Disincentive poster about meetings goes, None of us are as dumb as all of us.

In any case, the Jury Theorem at least highlights one thing we expect from certain kinds of procedures like juries and democracies. We want the right answer. The epistemic value is only one factor, however. We also want procedures to be fair. A jury of your peers, for example, is supposed, without any guarantee of giving the right verdict, to be fair. As for democracy, sometimes, apparently, it leads to Donald Trump. But, anyway, its supposed by many to be a fair way to make a decision  maybe, even the decision about who we eat first once Trump has reduced the country to smoking ruins.

Its going to matter, of course, what fairness means. Suppose you want a fair procedure to decide on guilt or innocence or between policy options, if you believe that juries and voting are epistemically unreliable, say worse than 50%, why vote? As David Estlund has asked, Why not just flip a coin? Coin-flipping will, at least, give you the right answer half the time.

John Rawls introduced a helpful way of thinking about how we balance these demands in A Theory of Justice where he distinguished between three kinds of procedures  perfect, imperfect, and pure. A perfect procedure is one where there is an independently right answer as to what the right outcome should be and a very accurate method for getting to that outcome. Give two kids a candy bar to share and tell one to break it in half and the other to choose which half he wants. Imperfect procedures have an independently right outcome, but only imperfect procedures for reaching that outcome. Think jury trial, at least on the 12 Angry Men model. A pure procedure has no independently right outcome. If the procedure is run and everyone follows the rules, the only right answer is just whatever the outcome is. Think poker or, really, just about any game.

Rawls thinks justice is a kind of pure procedure. If you lay down the right principles and everyone follows them, the outcome just is justice, whatever else it is.

What about democracy? Maybe, its a pure procedure. Maybe, there is no objectively correct outcome. Rawls, at least on one reading, says we have some cluster of political rights, including expression, association, and the right to vote, and, if we all exercise these, the outcome of the political process is fair whatever else it is. Or consider the view that in voting we are not making a judgment about what the right answer to some question or other is, but only expressing our subjective preferences. If democracy is just a matter of aggregating preferences, its some sort of pure procedure. Of course, add that we live in a representative democracy and things get even more complicated.

You may be able to get out of the reverse jury theorem argument, then, by claiming that democracy is a fair pure procedure. But if the procedure has no claim to being right, again, why not just flip a coin? Its faster, cheaper, and just as likely to give you the right answer.

Maybe, though, democracy is an imperfect procedure and if you have the right background social conditions  education, opportunity, nondiscrimination, free press, etc.  it would have a chance of being reasonably epistemically reliable and reasonably fair. You might look around and ask yourself: How are we doing so far? Ill come back to that.

But what about jury trials? Forget bench trials where matters of law are primarily what is at stake. In what positivists like H.L.A. Hart would call hard cases, the law (and so right answers) simply run out and we can only shrug and hope the procedure is a fair one. Surely, this doesnt apply to jury trials, though, where there must always be some right answer or other?

But consider the following case. (They did a whole episode of Radio Lab on it.) A man is arrested for having a huge amount of child pornography on his computer. At trail, the defense doesnt argue that he doesnt have and watch the porn. Instead, they put a neurosurgeon on the stand. The neurosurgeon says the man recently underwent a surgery that inadvertently rendered him unable to control himself when it comes to child porn. He is not guilty not because he didnt do it, but because he was physically incapable of not doing it. The prosecution pushes back. He had some ability to control himself because he hid his habit from everyone around him, including his wife, for over a year. The neurosurgeon has an answer. Thats not how this works. Yes, he had the mental faculties to hide what he was doing, what he lacked was the mental ability to not do it.

Forget the answer to the substantive question for a minute. What is the jury (or judge) deciding here? He did it. They are deciding whether or not he is responsible for what he did. Maybe, that has an objectively right answer too. But, maybe, just maybe, thats really a different sort of question. Maybe, they are deciding what we are going to hold people responsible for going forward. Maybe, even here then the question is whether or not the jury is a fair procedure for deciding a question other than simple guilt or innocence.

As I hinted above, in America today, these philosophical issues seem almost like red herrings. The main problem, for us, with democracy is that we dont have one. The main problem, for us, with jury trials is almost no one gets one.

On democracy, there are constitutionally mandated, counter-majoritarian features baked into our system. Every state gets two Senators regardless of population (Wyoming has just over half a million people, California has thirty-nine million). The electoral college decides Presidential elections in a way that has given us five presidents that lost the popular vote, two in the last eighteen years alone (George W. Bush and Donald J. Trump). Add to that the gerrymandering and voter suppression and we now clearly live in a minority-ruled nation.

If anything, the situation with jury trials is even worse. Something like 97% of federal cases are decided without a trial and 94% of state cases. In one random year I happened to look at, there were three thousand felony drug convictions in East Baton Rouge Parish and one jury trial. I thought that must be an anomaly, so I looked at the prior year. There were no trials. Add to this that the U.S. incarcerates more people than any country in the history of the world and that a disproportion number of prisoners are black and you might conclude we have a problem.

Jury trials and, increasingly, democracy, are not for everyone.

So, lets end on an up note and talk about movies. 12 Angry Men is a very particular type of film that I just happen to be partial to. I love a film with a fairly limited number of characters that plays out in a relatively confined space over more or less real-time. You might say that what I like is actually called a play. But the advantage of a film with these constraints is precisely how up and close and personal you get with the actors. No car chase, or shoot out, not even a Zombie attack holds up, for me, against a heated argument or emotional confrontation shot at close quarters.

So, here are a few of my favorite movies that fit this bill. Bodies, Rest and Motion (1993) features four characters (the great Tim Roth, Bridget Fonda, Phoebe Cates, and Eric Stolz) discussing love and the meaning of life over a long weekend  when two of them are supposed to be moving and one painting the apartment. The film is directed by Roger Hedden and based on a play by Michael Steinberg. (A friend of mine used to show it to his Existentialism classes. Go figure.)

Tape (2001) features Uma Thurman, Ethan Hawke, and Robert Sean Leonard over one long night in dingy hotel room in Lansing, Michigan. I dont want to spoil what its about, since it isnt revealed to late in the film, but lets just say its very timely. Its directed by the multi-faceted Richard Linklater.

One of my favorite movies of all time is Vanya on 42nd Street (1994), featuring the amazing Sean Wallace and his friend Andre Gregory (they made another great film together that fits my criteria, called My Dinner with Andre). Along with Julianna Moore et al, they sit in street clothes in a shuttered and rundown Broadway theatre and do a read-through of a David Mamet adaptation of Chekhovs Uncle Vanya. The film, the last one directed by the great Louis Malle, is luminous and more action packed than The Fast & the Furious.

If you like genre films, also check out Bug (2007) which never leaves the hotel room where Naomi Judd and Michael Shannon are smoking crack, a room which may, or may not, be infested with bugs. Its directed by William Friedkin from a play by Tracy Letts.

Finally, theres a film available right now on Netflix that brings all of my themes together. In Circle (2015), written and directed by Aaron Hann and Mario Miscone, fifty strangers of all different ages, genders, races, etc. wake up standing in two concentric circles in a mysterious room. They quickly discover that if you step out of the circle you are electrocuted to death  and that every two minutes someone is electrocuted whether they move or not. The movie really takes off when they realize that they are voting on who gets electrocuted next. The negotiations begin, the factions form, and this terrifying little democracy  or is it a speed jury?  hurdles towards an unknown endgame. The fun is the journey not the destination, but I found this take on what makes a procedure fair, and whether there is an independently correct outcome, absorbing throughout.

Actually, I cant help mentioning one more film that fits my criteria. Someone handing out Bibles on campus once asked me if I was familiar with the greatest story ever told. I said, Do you mean Die Hard? I hope that doesnt completely discredit me as a film critic.

In any case, if you are more interested in the philosophy, I talked about youll find the best coverage of these issues in David Estlunds excellent book Democratic Authority and John Rawls A Theory of Justice is a must for anyone interested in political philosophy. Finally, for an absorbing, if controversial, introduction to the practical consequences of Americas approach to justice see Michelle Alexanders The New Jim Crow. Unfortunately, in this case, the films  even Bug  are more reassuring than the facts.By Moses Kyeyune.

Embattled former he former Bank of Uganda (BOU) Executive Director for commercial supervision, Justine Bagyenda has apologized for snubbing parliament Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) last week.

Bagyenda is appearing before the probe involving the alleged illegal closure of seven commercial Banks.

The committee had since extended summons twice and had committed to issue a warrant of arrest in case she didnt appear before the committee today.

On appearing, the committee Chairperson, Abdul Katuntu noted that the legislators were over stretched on being patient with her absentia which affected the committee business.

It is then that Bagyenda tendered in an apology appreciating legislators for being very lenient with her and allowed her come back to the country safely as well as appearing before the committee today.by Thomas Manuel



Recently, the BBC published a report on the experience of fake news in India titled Duty, Identity, Credibility: Fake news and the ordinary citizen in India. The report primarily consists of two parts. The first section is based on 40 interviews with Indian citizens and a week-long analysis of their social media habits. The second section is a network analysis of Indias fake news ecosystem on social media. In the former, they included a list of 15 twitter accounts followed by the countrys Prime Minster, Narendra Modi, that were known to have published at least one piece of fake news. This list included OpIndia, arguably the most popular right-wing digital news outlet in India. The websites prompt and vociferous response in the form of factchecks and editorials provides the perfect opportunity to examine how right-wing media in India counteracts criticism.

In his essay in EPW Engage[1], Ajay Gudavarthi describes how the Right appropriates ideas from the Left and retools them to achieve the opposite of their original intention: Right-wing populism has managed to turn the traditional progressive political practices on their head. A critique is absorbed or resignified from its original meaning it is instructive to observe how the left-liberal critique of the class character of democratic institutions is usurped in legitimising an aggressive state that in fact makes institutions further dysfunctional to the peril of the socially and economically weak and in targeting the religious minorities. This resonates with how the right-wing relates to journalism and its subordinate traditions. While there are examples of legitimate factchecks from right-wing media, there is simultaneously a fetishization of the vocabulary of fake news, factchecks and debunking.

These terms gained currency after Brexit and the 2016 US Presidential election where they were used to analyse highly successful disinformation campaigns run by right-wing organisations. Factchecking emerged as the primary tool to combat the explosion of disinformation on social media. But the right-wing has usurped this vocabulary, not to combat disinformation or make facts easier to pin down. Rather they enable the right-wing to perform a kind of public rationality while still defending the irrational actions of the state. (This is not to say the right-wing is the only source of disinformation; the other political parties in India like the Congress are also guilty but its clear that the BJP pioneered the tactic and the rest are rushing to catch up.)

Narrative framing through exaggeration

The keystone of an OpIndia factcheck is the exaggeration of the value of any discrepancies in their target article. Regardless of the extent of their criticism, they compulsively describe targets as being comprehensively debunked when they link back to their factchecks from future articles. For example, in their report[2] on The Wires investigation[3] of Jay Amit Shah, they find no error in the original report except for a single sentence where the writer mistakenly interprets a negative number as a positive one. The error doesnt affect the outcome of the article in any way. Their primary allegation against the article is that is full of innuendo, i.e., suggesting wrongdoing without ever saying it. This isnt a revelatory finding. The writer and the editors consciously chose a pared-down style to restrict the article to facts alone so they have a defence for when they are inevitably sued. (Theyre on their 6th, I believe.) Based on these findings, i.e., innuendo and one meaningless error, OpIndia describes the Wires report as debunked by us comprehensively. In another factcheck[4], they write that The Wire insinuate[s] that Piyush Goyal and his family have business ties till date with a defaulting company. Nothing could be further from the truth if one looks at the facts. The Wire story does insinuate this but despite citing numerous documents and arguing a number of points, the OpIndia factcheckers hardly tackle the basic claim at all. Most of their findings are not debated by the original essay and yet they are presented as evidence of falsity, helping the essay succeed at looking like a legitimate factcheck.

In their factcheck[5] of another story by The Wire[6] on a potential conflict of interest among ministers of the central government, they rephrase the premise. The subtext of this article, they write, clearly attempts to establish guilt by association almost contending that the sons and daughters of serving government officials should not work in institutions that are funded by corporates that might seek contracts from the governmentThis logic doesnt hold water by any ethical or industry standard. This is actually not the conflict of interest that the article describes. Rather, it documents how the Defense Minister was the director of an organisation that solicited sponsorship from corporates for events, explicitly offering the opportunity to meet (and thus lobby) the Defense Minister in return. Much like the previous example, while the article looks structurally like a refutation, no points are actually refuted. Most of the arguments are just flat out wrong.

In their response to the BBC report[7], OpIndia primarily focused on the methodology of the study, hardly engaging with the actual findings. They marshalled three main criticisms: small sample size, reliance on biased sources and two errors. (Of these two errors, one was later shown to be correct while the other was subsequently acknowledged as a mistake.) In their subsequent coverage, the websites claims become more sensationalized. One column[8] reads, the BBC broke every single rule of ethical research, and accused them of cherrypicking their 40 respondents, a baseless allegation. The column also calls for such research to be classified as fake news. While bad research can and should be criticized, there is an attempt here to actively and purposely conflate criticism and debunking  a formulation that would allow all research and journalism to be debunked regardless of its degree of veracity.

Problems of knowledge and expertise

All forms of populism have some tension with the idea of experts. But this is doubly true for right-wing politics, both in India and abroad, where academia (both hard and social sciences) and the media are typically portrayed as hopelessly biased or corrupt. This creates a fundamental contradiction at the heart of right-wing rationality, which needs to lean on institutions of knowledge but none exist that has not been already dismissed. Their only reliable source of information is themselves. (Which is a part of the reason why they compulsively link back to previous articles; each time exaggerating and reinforcing their original claims.)

In their criticism of the BBCs methodologies, OpIndia doesnt seek to rely on the opinion of a reputable social scientist to argue that the sample size is too small or that the ethnographic method is unsuitable for generalization, instead they turn to the support documentation of SurveyMonkey, a reputed survey website. To this they add scientific-sounding gloss, writing, by the law of large numbers and Central Limit Theorem, the bare minimum requirement for sample size is 30 (n=30) to ensure that the sample is equally representative. They finally conclude that the shoddy sample size alone should be grounds to dismiss this report by BBC as bogus, propaganda driven and motivated.

When the BBC responded by saying that the report was qualitative research and not a market survey, they were not impressed: One of the ontological positions of Qualitative Research is that there are multiple realities and that there is no single objective truth. The purpose of Qualitative Research is not to arrive at objective truths that can apply across all situations but to generate hypotheses that could be tested using Quantitative methods. While there is a lot to unpack in this statement, its safe to say that questioning the idea of objective truth is a bit deep for a factcheck.

In a subsequent column[9], they further attack on the reports methodology, calling it qualitatively garbage and bogus. The same column continues, [W]hatever findings the BBC observed from their study can be said to hold true only for those set of 40 people at its worst and maybe, just may [sic], for other groups which bear a close resemblance to that particular group of 40 people. The Qualitative study does not reveal a single thing about the phenomenon of Fake News beyond that which could be generalized for other groups. While it is valid that these findings cannot be generalized too greatly, they are evidence of media exaggeration. The research remains far from being debunked.

Ideological bias and tainted association

As mentioned previously, apart from the sample size, the majority of the original criticism of the BBC report revolved around the use of biased sources. This has two parts. First, the report frames the fake news problem by citing news articles authored by left-leaning journalists. Second, the report uses factcheckers whose neutrality is questioned by OpIndia. The latter is by far the more egregious charge. OpIndia and others were classified (as social media accounts that had shared at least one piece of fake news) based on data received from three factcheckers  BoomLive, Factchecker.in and AltNews. And as OpIndia quite rightly points out, BBCs definition of fake news is so wide (informationnot fully supported by factual evidence) that the majority of Indias media ecosystem would be guilty of sharing at least one, even if by error.

Based on this and a slew of older reports, they argue that AltNews and Factchecker.in are partisan in outlook. Most of these older reports involve them factchecking the factchecks of these factcheckers and labelling their claims of fake news as fake news. While many of these reports suffer from the same flaws as mentioned in the above cases, that analysis will have to wait for a future essay. The claim of the report being tainted by association with incompetent or ideologically-biased factcheckers will rest on the veracity of these older reports.

Footnotes:

[1] How BJP Appropriated the Idea of Equality to Create a Divided India, Economic and Political Weekly, 28th April 2018

[2] The Jay Amit Shah story: Low on Facts, High on innuendo, OpIndia.com, 8th October 2017

[3] The Golden Touch of Jay Amit Shah, The Wire, 8th October 2017

[4] The Wire spins another lying web, this time, to target Piyush Goyal, OpIndia.com, 3rd April 2018

[5] This The Wire hitjob is shoddier than the last, OpIndia.com, 4th November 2017

[6] Exclusive: Think-Tank Run by NSA Ajit Dovals Son Has Conflict of Interest Writ Large, The Wire, 04th November 2017

[7] The BBC research on fake news is shoddy, unethical, dishonest, and actually an example of fake news, OpIndia.com, 15th November 2018

[8] Dear BBC, unscientific research is fake news, OpIndia.com, 21st November 2018

[9] Qualitatively garbage: The bogus methodology employed by BBC in their research on Fake News, OpIndia.com, 16th November 2018by Shadab Zeest Hashmi

You start with a scarfeach 90-by-90-centimeter silk carre, printed in Lyon on twill made from thread created by the labels own silkworms, holds a story. Since 1937, almost 2,500 original artworks have been produced, such as a 19th-century street scene from Ruedu Faubourg St.-Honore, the companys home since 1880. The flora and fauna of Texas. A beach in Spains Basque country - this is a fragment from an advertisement article for Hermes in this months issue of a luxury magazine. The article is called The Silk Road. Does it refer to the Silk Road in any way that justifies the title, beyond the allure of legend? No. Does it mention that the first scarves created for this very label, in 1937, were made with raw silk from China? No. Not necessary, not relevant to the target reader. In fact, the less we mention the East while trying to sell such luxury designer items, the better, aiming as we are for the rich collector, the global consumer of fashion (whether belonging to the East or West) willing to spend hundreds of dollars on a small square of silk, and more likely to associate such status symbols with Western Europe rather than with the underdeveloped, impoverished, overpopulated, conflict-ridden East.

While silk has always been a coveted item, a symbol of wealth and power for millennia in many cultures around the world, the detailed, de-mythologized, accurate history of what we have come to know as the Silk Road is not only of little interest but has been deliberately suppressed in the West. Besides a vague connection with Marco Polo, most people usually draw a blank at its mention. During the many years that I have been working on (and presenting from) a trilogy of poetry manuscripts based on aspects of this history, I have come across few readers (including writers and academics) in the US who have a clear idea of the regions that have been, since antiquity, a part of these trade routes we call the Silk Road (or Seidenstrasse, a term coined by the German historian Ferdinand von Richthofen in 1877) to define a network of land and sea routes of central and continuous importance to global trade as well as civilizational influences and the shifts in geographical borders around the world: a history that has been shaping not only how the world map looks from time to time, but how attitudes, knowledge, goods, technology, weapons, fashions, and even diseases and cures have been spreading across the continents and through the centuries.

Rudyard Kipling, despite his sweeping imagination and gift for lucid description, recycled the worst impulses of Western colonialism in works such The White Mans Burden, George Orwell presented us with complex scenarios of power-play, offering a moving glimpse of what a level playing field might look like in the context of colonialism, Edward Said identified the skewed perceptions of the East (predominant in West) that perpetuate attitudes justifying colonial exploitation, attitudes that have effectively carried over to every facet of postcolonial existence. In his book Silk Roads: A New History of the world, historian Peter Frankopan, delves into the study of world history using a framework, a compass, a timeline hitherto absent in the typical Eurocentric discourse without a dose of which none of us are considered educated by todays standards.

Frankopans premise as a historian of this significant and significantly neglected, erased, history, is itself a critique of modern western historiography. He begins with the personal story of the world map in his room that caught his imagination as a child; finding the evasion of large chunks of history in his school curriculum frustrating, he charted his own scholarly path at a young age; he became an autodidact.

The Silk Roads is quite a revolutionary book; it challenges the prevalent notions of Western Europe being the absolute center of civilization. Published a few years ago, it not only became an international bestseller but is deemed so important in understanding the imminent, tectonic shifts in global economy and power that it has been included in academic courses in many countries worldwide. An illustrated version of the book was released a few days ago by Bloomsbury; it is a summarized version, rich with illustrations that are modern, whimsical interpretations of images recognizable as historical portraits, relics and cultural symbols. The writing style is modified to suit younger readers, the chapters are arranged chronologically but follow certain themes, named by topics such as The Road to the New Worlds, The Road of Slaves, The Road to Chaos, The Road to Disenchantment, The Road to Heaven, etc. The origins of, and interactions between the Huns, the Rus, Sassanians, Khazars, Sogdians, Mongols, as well as the more recent conflicts between world powers such the former Soviet Union and the USA are discussed briefly, all within the framework of the Silk Roads. The last chapter the New Silk Roads deals with the current economic and political developments taking place in the region.

Frankopan begins with the vast Persian empire and the conquests of Alexander: Alexanders advance helped deepen the connections linking east with west. Goods, people and ideasabout religion, literature and educationthat were flowing in each direction began to do so even more rapidly. He takes us through the millennia as they unfolded (in terms of global significance) in the pacific coasts of China and Russia to the Atlantic coasts of Europe and Africa, and from Scandinavia in the north to the Indian Ocean in the south. By the end of the book, the impact of the history of the Silk Roads is apparent on each and every continent.

An important message at the heart of this work is the discussion of cooperation, tolerance, and preserving human values; It was easy to be tolerant and feel comfortable about those with different views, customs, and ways of living when things were going well. But when times were toughperhaps because of climate change, economic upheaval, or military threatminorities were always the first to suffer. Finding a way to cooperate and live harmoniously together could be and still can besurprisingly difficult.

Tolerance is linked with valuing knowledge. In the Chapter The Road to Wisdom, Frankopan describes the Islamic civilization in its renaissance: Great support was given to scholars and their research. Race, religion, and even gender were not barriers for those who were brilliantly clever, and scholars took pride in gathering knowledge from all corners of the world. This was a time that saw major breakthroughs in in sciences and mathematics, medicine and astronomy, literature and philosophy. Comparing the Muslim civilization to Europe of the time, he says: While the Muslim world took delight in innovation and new ideas, much of Christian Europe withered in the gloom, crippled by a lack of resources and curiosity. He goes on to say: in a world of opposites, even the most powerful leaders in Europe could barely read and writeand many could not read or write at all.

The chapter does well to shed light on a remarkable period of intellectual efflorescence that took place in the heart of the Islamic empire of the timeBaghdadbut the preceding chapter The Road to Islam, leaves much to be desired, as it looks at Islam merely as a political and economic vehicle (without any mention of spirituality and human values at its core), followers of which were enticed by the reward of paradise, or the prospect of material gain in military campaigns. I find myself dumbfounded by these gaps and omissions. Knowing how articulately the author speaks of the ethos of Islam in the context of the thriving civilization it generated (its emphasis on knowledge linked directly with the first word revealed to the prophet of Islam: Read!), I think the wording of this short chapter may have resulted from an editorial oversight.

What I find to be the most valuable feature of this book is its clarity and accessibility (considering its enormous scope) as well as how well the illustrations go with the content of each page, and how fascinating and easy to decipher the maps are; thanks to Neil Packer, the illustrator, the authors lifelong fondness for maps is conveyed beautifully. I got to this book before my twelve-year old son did, but Im quite sure hell find it useful, entertaining and memorable; it gives me a sense of peace that he will grow up in a world where there is better awareness of world history, the picture of human civilization is less fuzzy, incomplete, or biased, and the rich, diverse confluence of history along the Silk Road is finally understood beyond the escapades of Marco Polo or the exotic romance of its name.by Jalees Rehman

Why do people endorse political violence such as military attacks even if such violence is detrimental to their own self-interests? The US-led war against Iraq was supported by more than 70% of Americans within days of the invasion in March 2003, and even though the support dwindled over the course of subsequent months and years as it became obvious that Iraq did not possess weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and had not posed a major threat to the US. One could surmise that the US public had simply been misled by its government about Iraqs weapons program and the support was thus based on a rational self-interest calculation. The fear of being eviscerated by the supposed Iraqi WMDs convinced US citizens do approve of the war. The Iraq war came at a tremendous cost: It is estimated that at least two hundred thousand Iraqi civilians have been killed, with even more deaths attributed to the subsequent humanitarian and political crises precipitated by the war. The war also resulted in the deaths of several thousand American soldiers and a far greater number of American soldiers were wounded. From an economic perspective, it is estimated that at least one trillion dollars has been added to the national debt because of the war. This war was clearly against the self-interest of the American people, especially once it became obvious that Iraq did not possess WMDs. It is therefore all the more surprising that 40% of American adults continue to believe the military invasion of Iraq was the correct decision. Is this large segment of American society acting irrationally?

The psychologist Jeremy Ginges at the New School for Social Research in New York has been researching the reasoning behind political violence for more than a decade and recently summarized his work in the paper The Moral Logic of Political Violence. He has carried out psychological experiments enrolling Palestinian refugees and Israeli settlers as well as participants from countries across the world such as Nigeria and the United States, with remarkably similar results.

According to Ginges, support for politically motivated violence is often rooted in the identification with an abstract cause such as a nation, a holy land or an ideology. When making rational choices about how to respond to external threats, humans indeed act out of self-interest, but according to Ginges, abstract ideas can become so important that they fuse with an individuals sense of self, such that threats to these ideas may be processed as existential threats to self. His research suggests that participation in political violence is not necessarily a breakdown of morality but instead a switch towards deontological reasoning in which the violence can be seen as either completely prohibited or morally mandated to protect a sacred abstract idea. Cost-benefit analyses and assessment of the efficacy of violence to achieve ones goals become less important, instead defending the sacred values become paramount.

Ginges research on how defending the sacred helps justify political and military violence is especially important today with the rise of nationalism in many countries. The US president proudly asserted that he was a nationalist, and nationalist movements are on the rise in Europe, Asia and South America. Nationalism fosters the sense of a sacred. George Orwell is his essay Notes on Nationalism written during the last months of World War 2 described the key characteristics of nationalism:

I mean the habit of identifying oneself with a single nation or other unit, placing it beyond good and evil and recognizing no other duty than that of advancing its interests. Nationalism is not to be confused with patriotism. Both words are normally used in so vague a way that any definition is liable to be challenged, but one must draw a distinction between them, since two different and even opposing ideas are involved. By patriotism I mean devotion to a particular place and a particular way of life, which one believes to be the best in the world but has no wish to force on other people. Patriotism is of its nature defensive, both militarily and culturally. Nationalism, on the other hand, is inseparable from the desire for power. The abiding purpose of every nationalist is to secure more power and more prestige, not for himself but for the nation or other unit in which he has chosen to sink his own individuality.

Nationalism inculcates the desire for power and supremacy, it also eviscerates individuality because individuals subscribing to nationalist ideologies fuse their identities with those of the sacred nation. This fusion of individuality with the greater abstract cause and placing the nation beyond traditional morality (thus transforming it into the sacred) is precisely the phenomenon Ginges observed as a justification for political violence.

The rise of nationalism in the US and Britain is manifesting itself with slogans such as America First or Brexit, with broad support among the population. A slim majority in Britain voted for leaving the European Union in 2016, and nationalist sentiments hearkening back to the glory of the British Empire and its sacred sovereignty were frequently alluded to in the campaign. Oddly enough, even though several economic analyses have suggested that Brexit could have a tremendous detrimental impact on the British economy and thus go against British self-interest, more than 40% of voters would still support Britains departure from the European Union. The rise in American and British nationalism have not yet resulted in the initiation of new wars but there is one concerning symptom in both countries: Hate crimes are on the rise at an unprecedented rate in the United Statesand Britain. Although Ginges focused on studying political violence in the form of military strikes, it is possible that the rise in hate crimes which may be politically motivated are dire indicators of a shift in moral reasoning.

Reference

J. Ginges (2018). The Moral Logic of Political Violence. Trends in Cognitive Science, (in press).by Timothy Don

I met Rene Magritte a few weeks ago at the Starline Social Club in Oakland. A surprisingly jolly fellow, it turns out hes working these days as a pedicab driver in San Francisco. Surrealism isnt my jam, but when he offered me a pickup the next morning at the BART and mushrooms and tickets for two to the retrospective of his work at SFMoMA, wellI had to accept.

There are many things one could say about the SFMoMA. Its massive, its powerful, and its complicated. I have a sneaking suspicion that it operates as a kind of Leviathan in the Bay Area that sucks aesthetic energy into its great maw, gobbling up the local, less well-endowed swimmers and forcing an evacuation of the surrounding area that threatens to leave the gallery and studio scene like a bleached-out coral reef bereft of any but the largest predators. The regular reports of artists fleeing the Bay Area and moving to Los Angeles would seem to bear this out, as would the wriggling, lamprey-like presence of a Gagosian outpost since 2016 across the street.

That said, the collection SFMoMA contains is nothing short of incredible. Bracketing for the time being the delicious irony of the Fisher holdingsone of the worlds most extensive collections of post-war and contemporary art, a collection of some of the most sublime works of 20th century art, built from a fortune made by erasing the distinction between high and low culture (The Gap), valued at well over a billion dollarsvisiting SFMoMA is an eye-widening, jaw-dropping experience. It has everything, all of it, and it is informed by a profound and generous curatorial intelligence. Each visit promises new understandings, a renewed interest in old favorites (Heres a room full of Paul Klee!), and a reminder of what art and artists can do: the limitless reach of human creativity. It doesnt engage in easy juxtapositions or cheap didactics. It just quietly and seductively invites you to join the conversation. There are some very smart people working there.

The Magritte exhibit was proof of that. It was exquisitely curated. But whether it was because I didnt eat the mushrooms or because surrealism is a movement that appeared during the hour when the sun casts its shortest shadow, I found the curatorial effort behind the exhibit more compelling than the work itself. Sorry, but I was underwhelmed. Magritte (for my taste) is neither creepy enough, nor playful enough, nor philosophical enough to warrant bathing with. Spending that much time with that much of his work was a lesson in the limits of puns and dreams. Theres a reason that it appeals to children, and we are not living in child-like times. These are ugly, impoverished times. Wounded times. Magritte doesnt help us negotiate them. So at the end of it, I went in search of some art that would explode in my face or deepen my emotions or fill me with awe. Give me some Kara Walker, please, or some William Kentridge. Like I said, SFMoMA has it all. Finally, I found myself looking at a bunch of paintings by Philip Guston.

Guston, I realize now, was a perfect antidote to Magritte, and not because he was an early abstract expressionist where Magritte was a surrealist or because his paintings became cartoonish where Magrittes were almost photorealistic. Its not about where they oppose one another. It has more to do with what they have in common, and the different places in which each of them land in spite of that commonality, and what those places can tell us about where we currently stand.

They both portray private worlds in their paintings, but Magrittes privacy is an interior one of rooms and mundane objects and men in suits. The eros in his paintings is an individualized urge that he inflates to grotesque proportions. Magritte goes after the uncanny nature of individual experience, the weirdness of individual life.

Gustons privacy is one upon which the outside world is constantly encroaching, so that the singular is always already in relationship to the plural, the public oozes and bleeds into the private, and the individual finds herself thrown into an overwhelmingly large and deeply chaotic world. While they both start from the perspective of the individual at sea in the world, Magritte retreats and drills down into the individual psyche while Guston pushes outward and confronts the world that assaults him. Magritte becomes a surrealist; Guston becomes an existentialist.

They both paint from the perspective of a child. But Magritte is a tidy child who paints very tidily and puts his things away. Looking at his paintings, I am reminded of scenes from my own childhood: staring at a window pane in the rain, watching individual droplets become engorged and swollen, trying to catch and freeze that moment just before a single drop bursts and runs down the glass. Or studying an individual object (a teacup, a hairbrush) until I am so familiar with it that takes on gigantic, overwhelming proportions. Guston also paints like a child, but with a raw and primitive immediacy that verges on messiness and is contained only by his cartoonish style. Magritte is the child who keeps his questions to himself and works them out on his own; Guston is the one who asks after every answer, Yes, but why? Magritte takes the terrifying, nightmarish aspects of childhood and paints them into an order that simultaneously deepens those aspects and orders them. Guston presents those horrors in a cartoonish manner, simultaneously recording, confronting, and containing them. Magritte paints dreams and fantasies; Guston paints insults and wounds.

I have always been drawn to Gustons work and felt it to be deeply relevant to our moment but I didnt know why until I saw it in the wake of Magrittes. Even though most of it is almost fifty years old now, it feels absolutely contemporary. These are Gustonian times. The palette is made up primarily of reds, pinks and grays. His paintings are the color of blood (fresh, dried, or stale blood), and each one feels as though something has been torn or ripped in the process of completing it. They are records of insults and crimes and ugly memories, populated by bullies and racists and vulgar tyros, rendered in a style that reveals the juvenile nature of their subjects and the danger they poseprecisely because they are juveniles, boys dressed up as men who have claimed violence as their birthright. Guston painted wounds, personal and political wounds. Looking at them, I feel myself in the presence of a prophet.In late October, I was on the west coast of Oahu with my wife, taking in the view from an oceanfront cabana at the Four Seasons Resort at Ko Olina. The trade wind rustled the palm fronds and the pale green leaves of the beach naupaka, and an endless procession of deep blue swells pounded the rocky shore with a slow, rhythmic beat.

As if from nowhere, a man appeared, cabana-side, with a tray of the most enticing-looking cocktails. Introducing himself as Dr. Mai Tai (an accreditation verified by his name tag), he advised us that our pineapple levels were out of adjustment, a condition for which he had the perfect remedy. Thanking the doctor for the quick diagnosis, we helped ourselves to the elixir, and toasted to a promising new form of tropical medicine.

For almost two decades, Mina had been dreaming of opening a fish restaurant on a beach. (Courtesy of Four Seasons)

The mai tais were excellent and deliciously strong, but as I gazed at the horizon, rather than drifting off into the usual rum-induced daze, I found myself thinking about fishing and farming in the Hawaiian islands, the history thereof, and the question of whether a state that currently imports 90 percent of its food might one day support the kind of vibrant local food system that we enjoyed back at home in the Bay Area. Appropriately enough, this line of inquiry had sprung from the previous night's dinner at the resort's new restaurant, Mina's Fish House, a passion project from the critically acclaimed San Francisco-based chef Michael Mina.

In addition to his eponymous California Street restaurant, which earned a four-star rating from the San Francisco Chronicle's food critic Michael Bauer in September, Mina oversees a group of more than 40 restaurants ranging from an izakaya and sushi bar concept in Boston to an American-style steakhouse in Dubai. One might think his new collaboration with Four Seasons, with whom he has partnered on restaurants in Jackson Hole, Washington D.C. and elsewhere, was simply the product of a restaurateur's economic calculus, but Mina had in fact been dreaming about opening a fish restaurant for nearly two decades.

In the dining room of his Oahu outpost, Mina explained that he fell in love with fish and its versatility at George Morrone's Aqua, where he served as executive chef from 1993 to 2002. "What made Aqua magical," he said, "was that there were no boundaries." The sheer multiplicity of fish, he continued, and the fact that fish and seafood are a part of so many different culinary traditions, somehow liberated the restaurant from the need to hew to a single type of cuisine. "On the menu," said Mina, "we could have a Japanese dish next to a classic French dish, and the media didn't destroy us for it." When he left Aqua to start his own company, he vowed that he would open a fish restaurant at some point. There was a stipulation though. "It's not going to be downtown. I want to have my feet in the sand, looking at the ocean."

Last summer, when Four Seasonswhich opened on Oahu in 2016approached him with just such an opportunity, Mina was beside himself. He knew the island well, having vacationed there religiously for more than 20 years. He also knew that the quality of Hawaii's fish was unsurpassed. "As a chef," said Mina, "you can bring technique anywhere you go. But you can't bring product everywhere you go. Your dream as a chef is opening a restaurant where the very best of that product is right on your doorstep, because you're always going to get first crack at it."

For Mina and his executive chef, Garrick Mendoza, this means wild-caught fish like mahi-mahi, snapper, shutome, opah, opakapaka, and onagahand-selected at the market in Honolulu, or better yet, delivered by fisherman, straight from the boat. Farmed seafood also appears on the menu, including yellowtail, abalone, shrimp, and lobster from aquaculture operations in the Hawaiian islands. The pros and cons of aquaculture are a matter of fierce debate, but it's worth noting that centuries before Europeans arrived in Hawaii, ancient Hawaiians raised fish in a multitude of fishponds called loko i'a, of which there were 100 on Oahu alone. Whether the loko i'a had a superior environmental record to that of contemporary Hawaiian aquaculture, I don't know, but it seems a worthy topic for future research.

The insistence on local food isn't limited to fish alone. Mina's Fish House buys as much produce as it can from Kahumana Farm, an organic farm and non-profit organization in the nearby Lualualei Valley that provides jobs and housing for adults with developmental disabilities, and families transitioning from homelessness. During our stay on Oahu, my wife and I toured the farm (something I'd recommend to anyone visiting the island) and were staggered by the variety and abundance of what they growfrom tropical crops like taro, bananas, papayas and dragon fruit, to vegetables like Swiss chard, Chioggia beets, and carrots. Nibbling on one of the latter, I found myself wondering how much of its own food Oahu might one day produce if farms like Kahumana were as numerous as the taro fields which, prior to European contact, occupied all of the major stream valleys on the island.



(Courtesy of Four Seasons) Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, which opened in June 2016, is situated on Oahu's rugged western coast.

As we learned when we kicked off our al fresco dinner, even the smoke is local, as in a burrata salad with heirloom tomato, basil pesto, and shaved Maui onionserved in a vessel filled with a puff of smoke from smoldering shavings of kiawe, a type of mesquite that grows on Oahu and throughout the islands. The burrata was superb; the tomatoes intensely flavorful; both infused with just the right mesquite-y tang, and complemented by the bite of some wonderfully crisp croutons and fried basil leaves. Another starter was a tasty study in contrasts: creamy-buttery marinated Haas avocado garnished with house-made pickled vegetables, fried walnut, crisp shredded phyllo pastry, and a spicy hit of schug, a Middle Eastern condiment made with hot chiles, in this case jalapenos.

Wine-growing in Hawaii still has a ways to go, so at least for now, Mina's Fish House is relying on the more well-established regions, primarily California, France, and Italy. We began with a refreshingly crisp Simonnet-Febvre Cremant de Bourgogne Brut Rose, and as the balmy night progressed, segued on to an intriguing, tropical-fruit-inflected Bellone from the Lazian winery Casale del Giglio, and an elegantly assertive Beaujolais-Villages from the revered vigneron Jean Foillard.

The restaurant's specialty is whole fish, and somewhat ambitiously, we ordered two. The first, a farm-raised yellowtail from Kona, was prepared in a classic Chinese style. Broiled, with a sauce of black beans, ginger and scallions, and served on a bed of garlic fried rice, mushrooms, and bok choi, the intensely savory-umami flavors were a perfect complement to the fish's rich fattiness.

The second fish, the size of a minor whale, was a moi, a delicacy once reserved for Hawaiian royalty. On this particular evening, it was served a la Punjab: rubbed with a ginger-garlic paste, dipped in egg white, and coated in a blend of chickpea flour, cumin, coriander, and ajwain seed. Deep-fried, the spice blend transformed into a flavorsome, crisp-flaky crust, while the fish inside remained delightfully tender and succulent. Savoring one bite after another, I understood immediately why Hawaii's royals wanted the moi all for themselves, and wondered if it might once again be raised right there on Oahu, if the traditional loko i'a were to come back to the island.

It's a funny thing: In the time leading up to this trip, I'd imagined coming back to San Francisco with no more than the usual volume of dinner notes, and possibly a tan. But on returning from the 50th state, my notebook was packed with enough lines of inquiry to keep me traipsing around Oahu for a month. Clearly, a return trip is in order. And whenever that should happen, I know just where I'll be going for dinner.



// Mina's Fish House, Four Seasons Resort at Ko Olina, Kapolei (Oahu), michaelmina.net; fourseasons.com.

Eight games set for this weekend at Dacotah Bank Classic

This weekend, Wachs Arena will host the Dacotah Bank Thanksgiving Clash. Both the Northern State women's and men's basketball team will be in action.Dennis Garcia has a motto: When opportunity comes knocking, we should open the door.

Its a slogan that has served him well over the years. As an undergraduate business student at the University of New Mexico, a job interviewer with consumer goods behemoth Procter & Gamble told him his skill set was a perfect fit for the banking industry. A few calls and 40 years later, Garcia is a senior vice president at U.S. Bank in Albuquerque.

He was right, no question, Garcia said. Banking has given me the opportunity to travel the country, to see much of the world.

Now Garcia has the opportunity to lead the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce as its chairman over the next year. The chambers 2018 chairwoman, attorney Michelle Hernandez, transferred the gavel to Garcia on Nov. 15. Ernie Cde Baca, the chambers president and CEO, said Garcia has been a tremendous asset on the organizations board for the past four years.

Hes the guy whos always watching the bucks and making sure we do things right, Cde Baca said. He has a great background, and hes got great enthusiasm. Were very excited.

So what are Garcias plans for the largest Hispanic chamber of commerce in the nation? He sat down with the Journal in late November and outlined his strategy.

Four priorities

Ever the numerate, Garcia said he thinks of his priorities in terms of four categories. One of is board engagement, both within the board itself and between the board and the chambers staff. Having sat on several other boards in the past, Garcia said what often makes the difference between a successful organization and an unsuccessful one are the strength of the connections among those at the top. That enthusiasm then filters down through the rest of the organization and throughout the membership.

This is an extremely powerful group of folks, Garcia said. The more everyone is engaged with one another, the stronger everyone is. Very wonderful things can happen.

Garcia is also convinced that the chamber can better leverage its existing contract with the city to bring Hispanic, Latino and Native American-focused conferences and conventions to Albuquerque.

If we bring a group of Hispanic engineers to town, for example, how do we generate opportunities to get them to start and relocate businesses here? he said. We need a little more strategy in that area.

The chambers core mission is economic development, and Garcia said he hopes to accomplish that not only by leveraging the conference contract, but also by expanding the chambers educational programming. The chamber is offering a new set of workshops aimed at showing businesses of all sizes how to participate in the procurement processes run by the national labs, hospitals and other large organizations in New Mexico. Garcia said hed like the chamber to offer additional programming along the same lines, though the team is still working on the details of what such programming would look like.

Finally, Garcia wants the chamber to become a stronger advocate in the public policy arena.

We need to have the chamber step up when needed, on national issues and local ones, he said. We dont want to just say something for the sake of saying something. But weve come out in the past on critical issues, and we need to continue doing that.

As for what the details of a stronger approach to advocacy might look like, Garcia isnt ready to provide additional information. But he says the organization is working on it closely.

Opportunity knocks

Like the banking industry, chambers of commerce have changed significantly in recent years. Garcia says many chambers are shrinking, in part because the networking functions long offered by such organizations are easily replicated online.

Weve been around since 1975, and we constantly have to ask ourselves, What is the role of the chamber today?' Garcia said. We have to dig in so it doesnt lose its mojo. Its a challenge to continually provide a quality product and figure out how to define it.

And yet Garcia said that in many ways, the Hispano chamber is in a different position than many of its more broadly focused counterparts. The organization has grown over the past few years and now totals about 1,200 members. In advance of its annual gala on Feb. 9 next year, the chamber is holding a summit to share its best practices and challenges with several other chambers from across the United States.

Garcia attributes the chambers success to many variables, but one key ingredient is its focus on both the small business community as well as Hispanic, Latino, Native American and other immigrant businesses, in particular those run by women. Those groups are driving significant growth in the national economy, according to Garcia, as well as locally in New Mexico.

When you cater to small businesses, especially those run by Hispanic and Latina women, youre working with one of the largest entrepreneurial groups you can find, Garcia said. People nationally are just beginning to understand that, and to understand the purchasing power of minority groups.

Which brings Garcia to what he believes could be one of New Mexicos biggest opportunities: embracing the fact that the diverse demographics it has today will be reflected by much of the nation in the coming decades. Teaching businesses here and elsewhere how to be successful in a more diverse economy is perhaps the task the state  and by extension, the chamber  is better positioned for than anywhere else in the country, according to Garcia. If we can get it right now, we can lead the nation, he said.Hey, how is the migrant caravan of Central Americans coming north through Mexico affecting you? This is a question I am being asked almost daily by people who dont live here on the U.S.-Mexico border. It relates to the latest wave of migrants who have left countries such as Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador to trek north, partly by foot, partly by hitching rides, to get to what they see as the promised land  the United States.

Estimates of the caravans size range from 4,000 up to 10,000 people. Even though incidents have occurred necessitating the use of force against some more aggressive members of the caravan, the overwhelming majority do not intend to climb the border fence or swarm over agencies such as the Border Patrol. Most want to legally apply for asylum hoping that their stories of death and insecurity at the hands of corrupt officials or gangs will help them gain admittance to the U.S.

Mexico is bearing the brunt of dealing with the migrants as they are ending up in northern cities such as Tijuana and Juarez. The mayor of Tijuana has declared the situation a humanitarian crisis and has reached out to the United Nations for help. Makeshift space has been made for the migrants to sleep in places such as stadiums, and officials are doing their best to feed and provide medical care for the group. How incoming Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador will deal with this situation is still unclear.

The current caravan has been cast as an invasion and infiltrated with bad guys, (presumably gang members) by President Trump. However, similar caravans have come to the U.S. border in recent years and have been efficiently and professionally handled by U.S. federal officials from agencies such as the Border Patrol. This particular caravan was conveniently used by politicians as the poster child to seek money for the border wall or to rant about the need to seal the border with Mexico.

National Guard troops were sent to the border in response, not to physically apprehend immigrants illegally crossing the border, but to assist Border Patrol officers with surveillance. Members from fringe groups calling themselves everything from Minutemen to Freedom Fighters have driven their campers to the border to assist in the effort to seal the border. Most find that they are unwanted in border communities, which have strong familial and personal relationships with sister communities in Mexico.

The migrants reflect the failed economic and security policies of their home nations.

It is heartbreaking to see the terrible desperation of these people who would leave everything they know and walk across Mexico, one of the biggest countries in the Western Hemisphere, with the hope upon reaching the U.S. border, their requests for asylum would be granted and they could start a new life filled with opportunities. Given the anti-immigrant slant that the Trump administration has taken, it is probable that very few of the migrants will ever be granted asylum. Some will stay in Mexico, and many will return home, back to the situations that forced them to leave.

And unfortunately, the caravan couldnt have arrived at a worse time. It is the Christmas season and hundreds of thousands of people are crossing the border to spend time with their families. Lines at the ports of entry traditionally are long this time of year, and crossing times tend to get longer. Having the migrants occupy space around the port crossings and the focus of federal officers will add to the traffic jams and waiting times.

The caravan is also disruptive to commerce. Customs and Border Patrol agents from Texas and New Mexico have been temporarily reassigned to ports of entry in Arizona and California where members of the caravan have arrived. This means that fewer Customs agents will be available to process northbound commercial traffic at the border during the month before Christmas. This in turn will cause delays in shipments due to longer crossing times. For many companies, this is their busiest time of year.

How the migrant caravan situation will finally be resolved is anybodys guess. Previous caravans have seen some members return to their countries, while others have been absorbed into Mexican society.

At minimum, members of the caravan need to question the logic of their leaders that simply marching to the border would buy their entry into the U.S., especially given the isolationist slant of the Trump administration.

Huge manufacturing cities such as Tijuana and Juarez are currently experiencing tight labor markets, and they could do well to utilize migrant labor, even if it is not long-term. This could be a win-win situation for all.

Jerry Pacheco is the executive director of the International Business Accelerator, a nonprofit trade counseling program of the New Mexico Small Business Development Centers Network. He can be reached at 575-589-2200 or at jerry@nmiba.com.PHOENIX  A man convicted of killing two young girls in 1967 and released to home arrest in 2015 is back in prison after violating his parole, according to authorities.

Phoenix TV station KPHO reports William Huffs parole officer found an 8-year-old girl sleeping at Huffs residence this week, in violation of his parole.

Arizona Department of Corrections officials told KPHO that the child is the daughter of Huffs girlfriend, but theres no indication the girl was hurt in any way.

The state Board of Executive Clemency will decide whether Huff, 67, will remain behind bars.

It was unclear Sunday if Huff has an attorney who can speak on his behalf.

Court records show Huff was sentenced to 40 years to life in prison for the murders of 6-year-old Janelle Haines and 7-year-old Cindy Clelland in Sierra Vista.

Clellands body was found in the desert in early May 1967 a few days after she disappeared and authorities said she had been strangled and mutilated. The following month, Haines was found dead on Fort Huachuca and authorities said she was naked and had been bashed in the head with a rock.

The clemency board released Huff to home arrest in December 2015, saying he had a clean record while in prison for nearly 50 years.

I hate to say I told you so, but this is where I told you so falls into play,' Melisa Haines, a relative of Janelle Haines, told KPHO. To hear that it involved another little girl is something that is gut-wrenching.

Its not something that Im happy hes in prison for, because it involved a little girl. But I am happy that hes in prison because I believe that thats where he belongs.

___

Information from: KPHO-TV, http://www.kpho.com/In a guest publication of the Albuquerque Journal (Nov. 28), Scott Glasrud offered an apology that begs further clarification. At the granular level, one must draw expertise from the field of psychology. The five stages of incarceration, outlined by the Prison Fellowship, a Christian non-profit serving prisoners founded by former White House counsel Charles Colson, a former prisoner himself, are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance  he derived these from the stages of grief penned by Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. In the denial stage, most prisoners blame their situation on others. In anger, they express perceived unfair and imagined grievances and therefore find it hard to believe theyre really facing prison.

Glasrud has chosen to blame me as well as others for the path that he alone chose. The federal prosecutors, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Fred J. Federici and Holland S. Kastrin, the Albuquerque Division of the FBI with the assistance of the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Inspector General and even Senior U.S. District Judge James A. Parker presiding over Scott Glasruds sentencing identified me, along with the four schools included in the Southwest Learning Center, the children, and the New Mexico Public Education Department all as victims of Glasruds machinations. I declined the victim restitution offered to my counsel, Robert Gorence, by Judge Parker. I concluded, as I always have, to place our children first, and that any recovered funds would better serve the schools.

After a four-year exhaustive and comprehensive investigation, the results yielded a nine-count plea agreement signed by Glasrud, followed by Judge Parker sentencing him to 60 months in a federal penitentiary for federal theft, fraud and false statements. And he was also ordered to pay $3 million in restitution, forever memorialized in the Department of Justice press release dated Oct. 12. U.S. Attorney John C. Anderson and Special Agent in Charge James C. Langenberg of the Albuquerque Division of the FBI announced his sentence. There are the facts, and they are immutable.The Middle East, like the rest of the world, is a very dangerous place! according to President Trump. The Saudis, with Americas tacit help, made it so.

President Trumps bizarre statement giving Saudi Crown Prince Muhammed bin Salman (MbS) a pass on his involvement in journalist Jamal Khashoggis murder raises a number of serious issues that Trump has cavalierly dismissed. Beyond the lame rationale he has offered in defense of MbS, the president is undermining Americas long-term interests in the region and is putting the lives of American citizens  civilians, diplomats and military  in that part of the world at risk.

By attributing such lofty transactional doctrines as the realpolitik and liberal order paradigm to the statement is to presume that the president had studied the realities of the Middle East, the history and dynamics of American-Saudi relations over the years, the Saudi role in preaching a radical version of Sunni Islam in the past half century, or the emergence of the international order since World War II. The piece failed to show any such analytic depth or informed expertise. Instead, it was no more than an Iran-bashing ode to Arab dictators, including MbS. It takes the presidents dystopian view of the world to another level.

Trumps statement has reduced the American-Saudi strategic partnership, which for decades has been based on states regardless of who is in power in either country, to specific persons  Trump on the American side and MbS on the Saudi side. Saudi kings have guarded the relationship because it served the strategic interests of Saudi Arabia, not any one leader. The partnership has devolved into a series of pronouncements driven by the whims and predilections of two people, Trump and MbS.

Since the beginning of Robert Muellers Russia investigation and the presidents refusal to criticize Putin, people have asked, What does Putin have on Trump? With the recent pro-Saudi statement, one might legitimately ask, What does MbS have on Trump?

Two other dangers loom over the horizon because of Trumps pro-MbS posture. He has undercut the veracity and effectiveness of the U.S. intelligence community and has given a green light to dictators to persecute their opponents at will without accountability. Like the military, American intelligence has been at the front lines in the defense of this country and its citizens. The stars engraved on the main lobby wall at CIA headquarters testify to the ultimate sacrifice that CIA officers have made over the years.

The intelligence community does not make a high confidence judgment lightly. Such a judgment must be based on first-hand information, including intercepts of phone calls, messages and personal conversations. Determining the degree of confidence is based on the facts in question, the source of such facts, and the access and knowledge of the source. If the recent media leak about MbS culpability is accurate, then the CIA judgment that he approved the murder in advance is correct.

Its sad that the president of the United States, the primary consumer of U.S. intelligence, has rejected the CIAs judgment. CIA analysts do not deal with feelings, as the president has claimed, but with corroborated evidence. Equally disturbing is Trumps message to the world that he doesnt trust his own intelligence community. How can intelligence officers function under such a cloud of high-level suspicion? Isnt this the best Thanksgiving gift that Trump is giving to Americas adversaries, including the Saudi autocrat?

Just because the world is a dangerous place, the United States should not disengage from it. To do so is an abandonment of the democratic values it stands for. The world doesnt respect the United States solely because of its military might. The sooner the United States realizes that its spectacular ally MbS has contributed to making the Middle East more dangerous, the sooner Washington will begin to look for solutions. Trumps statement giving MbS a pass on murdering Khashoggi is a step in the wrong direction.

Emile Nakhleh is a retired senior intelligence service office and was awarded the Directors Medal while at CIA. A longer version of this article was originally published on LobeLog.Copyright  2018 Albuquerque Journal

SANTA FE  New Mexico voters this year overwhelmingly backed a constitutional amendment establishing an independent ethics commission.

Now state lawmakers are wrestling with how much of the groups work should be public.

The amendment  which passed with 75 percent of the vote  left it to the Legislature to determine the details of how the seven-member commission would operate.

A working group headed by Democratic Sen. Linda Lopez and Republican Rep. Jim Dines, both of Albuquerque, has already been exploring ways to set up the commission.

But Lopez and Dines say critical questions over transparency and jurisdiction will have to be answered in the upcoming legislative session, which starts Jan. 15. They expect competing proposals to be introduced.

Dines is pushing for lawmakers to make the commissions work as public as possible. Transparency, he said, will help build public confidence in the ethics system.

Ive always believed this ethics commission is a toothless tiger without as much transparency as possible, he said Friday during a meeting of the legislative Courts, Corrections and Justice Committee.

Dines suggested, for example, that ethics complaints could be made public at the same time as the persons formal response to the allegations.

But several lawmakers said Friday that they are struggling with what documents should be public and when.

They fear frivolous complaints will be filed as a political weapon, they said, to damage a public officials reputation.

Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, said professional complaints filed against lawyers and judges in New Mexico are made public only in certain circumstances.

This is the piece that Im weighing; I havent made a decision yet, Wirth, a lawyer, said of the transparency question. But I dont think the Judicial Standards Commission is a toothless tiger.

In New Mexico, complaints against lawyers are confidential unless the state Office of Disciplinary Counsel decides to proceed with allegations of attorney misconduct. Complaints against judges generally become public only if the Judicial Standards Commission files a case for discipline with the Supreme Court.

Dines, a retired lawyer with expertise in public records and open meetings laws, suggested the fears about frivolous complaints are overblown. People already can file public ethics complaints with the Secretary of States Office, he noted.

Furthermore, he said, trust us isnt usually a winning argument by government agencies that want to operate in secrecy.

If youre going to balance something, Dines said, balance it in favor of openness.

Fridays back-and-forth was a preview of what will be some of the Legislatures most critical work in the 2019 session. But Dines may not be part of that next year. He lost his re-election bid in a race so close that it triggered an automatic recount, which was ordered by the State Canvassing Board on Friday.

The constitutional amendment adopted by voters this year broadly outlines the ethics commissions composition, subpoena power and authority to issue advisory opinions. Its also empowered to investigate and decide on complaints alleging ethical misconduct by government officials, candidates, lobbyists, contractors and employees.

But enabling legislation, as its called, is necessary to more specifically outline how the new commission will operate.

Lopez said a variety of decisions must be made  including what sorts of discipline the commission may impose and whether its jurisdiction will extend to school board members.

Other questions include how to fund the commissions work and whether the group would hold hearings in public when evaluating ethics complaints and whether the complaints themselves would be public.

New Mexico has been one of only six states without an ethics commission.

This is a profound change in our state, Lopez said.

The ethics working group, she said, will meet in Albuquerque at the State Bar of New Mexico on 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday.

Passage of the constitutional amendment came after a series of ethics scandals rocked New Mexico in recent years, including the 2017 conviction of a former state senator on corruption charges.Ensuring sick-leave benefits are available for private-sector Albuquerque workers isnt going away  despite a City Council committee killing it for the time being last week.

And it shouldnt, not only because voters rejected an earlier, extremely onerous version of said ordinance by just 718 votes around a year ago, but because sick leave is important.

The message was, and still is: Many city residents believe the right thing for businesses to do is provide some sick-leave benefit. How such a requirement would affect business is a big concern, especially among small-business owners, so it was admirable Council President Ken Sanchez and Councilor Don Harris sought to bring opposing sides together and work out a compromise. Much of their proposal, for businesses with 50 or more employees, were reasonable. They include:

 Accruing one hour of paid sick leave for each 40 hours worked, up to a maximum 40 sick leave hours a calendar year.

 Carrying up to 40 hours of unused sick leave to the next calendar year.

 Using sick leave for medical care for the employee, spouse or family, or if the employee is a victim of family violence.

 Qualifying to use sick leave after working 720 hours.

 Covering employees who work an average of at least 20 hours a week; temporary employees would not qualify.

 Exempting employers with a sick leave/paid-time-off program that meets or exceeds the ordinance.

Sanchez said the proposed ordinance, introduced almost a year ago and set to kick in Jan. 1, was delayed while councilors await a University of New Mexico Bureau of Business and Economic Research report on the proposal. He had asked for a comprehensive report for the business community and sick-leave advocates to look at together. That remains a good idea  especially because taxpayers have already paid for it.

Meanwhile, representatives of Equality New Mexico, New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty and El Centro de Igualdad, who have advocated for a sick-leave ordinance, told committee members they favored deferral and a bill with additional items. For them, this version does not go far enough. And that Harris sent Councilor Pat Davis to the Finance and Government Committee meeting in his stead, only to have Davis help kill his proposal, raises questions.

It is essential any new proposal not revert to the overbroad promises of the 2017 Healthy Workforce Ordinance, which in practice would have delivered pink slips and stifled job growth. And unlike the consensus Sanchez and Harris have built, and the public vetting process they have respected, the 2017 version did not go through any legislative process; it made it to the ballot via a petition drive.

That version would have forced employers, from small mom-and-pops to giant corporations, to offer sick leave to every employee who worked seven days in a year  full time, part time, temporary or seasonal. And to pay for an employees medical appointment if they wanted a doctors note. And to prove they were not retaliating for use of sick time if they disciplined or fired an employee within 90 days of him/her calling in sick. And it barred the council from making any substantive changes, ever.

The concept of not making employees choose between working sick, caring for a family member or sending a sick child to school and losing needed income is easy to understand. So is the concept of business owners needing to be able to meet their bottom line. And while coming up with a workable solution is not easy, Sanchez and Harris made a solid effort and involved stakeholders. It is essential they continue that collaboration to find a solution.

Because things havent changed since voters rejected the 2017 version  or the first City Council attempt at a sick leave ordinance in 2015. Employees and their families still get sick, and employers still have to worry about the cost of doing business.

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.Calling all volunteers.

Mayor Tim Keller last week launched One ABQ Volunteers, a comprehensive initiative designed to encourage Albuquerque residents to address the challenges the city faces.

Coming off the heels of this summers successful One ABQ Challenge, One ABQ Volunteers will connect those interested in getting involved with the city to an opportunity that aligns with their skill set and their interests.

We want to turn government inside out so every person has a role to play in moving our city forward, Keller said in a statement. Theres something for everyone  if youre interested in public safety we have crime data entry; if you care about animals you can foster a pet  we want everyone to be able to find something theyre passionate about and come to the city to help.

The first effort to get the city involved was Keller and first lady Elizabeth Kistin Kellers One ABQ Challenge, which resulted in 109 organizations, businesses and individuals working together to host 74 service projects across the city.

The challenge engaged more than 1,000 volunteers who contributed more than 5,000 hours of service.

In preparation for launching this effort, city departments conducted an assessment of their needs, so that the city could get residents involved in their own government and engaged in finding solutions.

A wide range of volunteer opportunities are available, including working in community centers, serving as ambassadors at the airport, assisting with beautification projects through the Parks and Recreation Department, providing administrative support to the Albuquerque Police Department and volunteering at the New Mexico Veterans Memorial.

For more information, visit www.cabq.gov/abq-volunteers/abq-volunteers.

CALLING ALL SWIMMERS: Families can register for spring swim lessons online or at one of the citys five indoor pools.

Spring swim lessons are offered at West Mesa Aquatic Center, 6705 Fortuna NW; Sandia Pool, 7801 Candelaria NE; Highland Pool, 400 Jackson SE; Los Altos Pool, 10100 Lomas NE; and Valley Pool, 1505 Candelaria NW.

To register for spring swim lessons, go to play.cabq.gov, sign up for a household (or sign in if you have an account), find the lesson that you are interested in, click on Add to Cart, proceed to checkout and bring the receipt to the first day of lessons.

Families can also register in person by visiting one of the indoor pool locations. The cost for each session is $35.

Online registration has begun for all pools except Los Altos, where registration will begin Feb. 1.

For more information, visit www.cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/programs-lessons/recreation/swimming-lessons.

Steve Knight: sknight@abqjournal.comThe pediatric heart doctors made for an odd couple at the Legislatures Health and Human Services Committee: Bill Stein in his conservative gray suit and Jon Love with his blond ponytail, three earrings and shiny blue blazer  both testifying to their desire to work together.

Their respective employers had been in cutthroat competition for years, with the result being a health system in which very sick kids are more likely to be sent out of state than two miles down the road to the competitor.

Stein, 42, who is employed by Presbyterian Healthcare Services, is the states sole pediatric cardiothoracic surgeon. Love, 56, is the lone pediatric interventional cardiologist at the University of New Mexico. Their message of collaboration was one that pediatricians and parents of medically fragile children have been longing to hear.

The two hospitals are the states largest providers of pediatric specialty care and serve one of the countrys most Medicaid-dependent populations of children.

In 2013, their longstanding antagonism boiled over after insurers failed to reach a deal that would have let patients easily access both networks.

New Mexicos relatively small pool of patients means that neither institution has the critical mass it needs to hang onto key pediatric specialists. It has been a nightmare for families whose children require specialized care.

Siah Hemphills son, Nicholas, 22, was born with a rare syndrome that caused abnormal growth and bone cancer and resulted in a leg amputation. Ask what it took to get her son a new wheelchair and you will be met with tears: It took four grueling years.

Theres so much miscommunication and disorganization, said the Silver City mother, recalling the phone calls, lost workdays and the sores her son developed from using an outdated chair.

Last year, the family switched Medicaid providers in order for Nicholas to see the appropriate specialist at UNM. Finally, he got the wheelchair he needed.

I dont know how anyone can navigate this disaster of a health care system, she said.

Joining forces

Nearly a year into joint talks, Presbyterian and UNM leaders are now quietly mapping a collaborative relationship that could benefit New Mexico kids  including taking baby steps that could lead to a unified childrens hospital.

Stein and Love pioneered the initial agreement to link the hospitals pediatric specialties.

Working with UNM is one of the best things we can do for the state, said Presbyterian Chief Medical Officer Jason Mitchell. Making sure we have enough pediatric specialists in our state to take care of our kids is really, really important.

Historically, fierce competition between the two hospitals meant that physicians at one hospital rarely got privileges at the other. Health plans  including the Medicaid plans that cover more than half of all children in New Mexico  would sooner send a sick child to Denver, Dallas or Phoenix to see a specialist than to the other local system.

This tendency worsened five years ago when Presbyterian Health Plan restricted clients to its own hospital system. At the time, Presbyterian cited the high cost of care at UNM, which as an academic institution may charge more than commercial providers.

It drives me crazy as a practitioner when I cant get kids the care they need, because health systems and managed care organizations dont cooperate, said Brian Etheridge, a Silver City pediatrician and past president of the New Mexico Pediatric Society.

An estimated 98,000 New Mexico children have special health care needs, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation study, and 59 percent of them are on Medicaid. For families living near the poverty line, a hospital stay in another state imposes immense hardships  missed days at work, lost jobs, the stress of family separation.

Traveling out of state is the last resort for most families, said Cathy Salazar, a family liaison with Parents Reaching Out, an Albuquerque nonprofit that helps parents navigate their childrens health care, education and other needs.

Lawmakers step in

Convinced that the states population is too small and its families too fragile, the state House in 2018 unanimously approved a memorial instructing the New Mexico Pediatric Society to convene a task force to propose solutions.

First on their list is a single, unified Childrens Hospital, incorporating all pediatric specialties available in New Mexico  not necessarily calling for a new building but advocating for an institutional framework that would eliminate the barriers families face trying to access care at both hospitals.

At the hearing in November, Love told the story of a baby who, over the summer, needed a procedure that Love couldnt safely perform without surgical back-up. Three of his peers at UNM had recently decamped to the University of Iowa. Stein, the pediatric heart surgeon, was less than two miles away, at Presbyterian Hospital  but he didnt have privileges at UNM.

It started the question, Love told legislators, why cant we just be working with one another across institutions?

If both hospitals continue to lose cases to out-of-state childrens hospitals, they will not only lose money; they risk losing some of their most important doctors, who are expensive to recruit and difficult to retain amid a national shortage of pediatric specialists.

Our (pediatric cardiology) program fell apart because the volume just wasnt there, said Frantz Melio, chief strategy officer for the UNM health system. We made the decision to collaborate with Presbyterian so that we both, together, could provide the care that was needed in the state.

With a formal agreement now in place linking their pediatric cardiology units, Presbyterian and UNM are moving specialty by pediatric specialty to build bridges. The next steps are to extend dual hospital privileges, coordinate patient care and convince health plans to pay both systems.

Any consolidation could only benefit the providers and families, said Charlotte McGaughey, who has spent two decades navigating New Mexico health care for her autistic son Matthew, 21, who is nonverbal and has suffered debilitating gastrointestinal problems.

McGaughey, who lives in Silver City, recalled that when Matthew needed psychiatric care as a teenager, she was given a list of five doctors. Three were no longer practicing in the state, and one wasnt taking new patients. That was extremely frustrating, she said.

Besides helping keep physicians in New Mexico, greater collaboration between Presbyterian and UNM could mean that the providers would have more access to each other, and the parents would have more access to support groups, she said. There are a lot of things that make it hard to raise a disabled child in a poor state.Albuquerques Intergovernmental Legislative Relations Committee on Thursday adopted a wish list of significant local and regional projects and programs it hopes will attract state funding next year.

The full City Council could consider the recommended priority resolution that includes the wish list as soon as today, with a goal of finalizing the list in time for the next session of the Legislature.

Coordinating with other governmental entities, the committee, whose members come from Mayor Tim Kellers administration and the council, identified significant projects that they deemed have regional impact and require the joint efforts and resources of the city and state.

The priority regional projects recommended by the committee are:

 LAN radio system: $30 million for modernizing the regional land/mobile radio system for central New Mexico first responders.

 Emergency shelters with crisis triage support: $28 million for construction of shelters with triage support to provide services seven days a week, 24 hours a day, for indigent care, mental health crisis treatment and addiction treatment.

 Law enforcement science technology: $3 million for updating the Albuquerque Police Departments crime firearm analysis capacity and acquiring automated DNA testing and anti-auto theft technologies.

 Public safety capital outlay set-aside: Asking the state to develop and adopt a program that would set aside 1 percent of capital outlay funds for public safety agencies throughout the state.

 Film credits: Asking the state Legislature to adjust the film production rebates program to increase rebate caps with an emphasis on adjusting the rebate for television series to the level in place for television pilot productions.

 Albuquerque Rail Yards: $30 million for redevelopment of the rail yards facility, including site remediation and installation of new roofs, utility lines and connections.

 Balloon Fiesta Park access improvements: $7.5 million to improve Balloon Fiesta Park access, which would include constructing a slip ramp from Interstate 25 to the frontage roads and constructing a rail spur into the park for the purpose of providing Rail Runner Service.

 Paseo del Norte and Unser Boulevard improvements: $2.5 million for improvements to Paseo del Norte from Calle Nortena to Rainbow Boulevard NW and for Unser Boulevard from Kimmick Drive to Paradise Boulevard NW.

 New childhood development centers: $4 million to construct two new childhood development centers on the citys West Side.

The wish list resolution adopted by committee members also includes 57 neighborhood improvement priority projects recommended by councilors for their districts in hopes of receiving state funding. That list could grow as more projects are identified.The reorganized basement in Parish Memorial Library at the University of New Mexico became a little brighter earlier this year, thanks to a freshly unveiled mural on one of the walls.

Arid, Mountainous and Roadrunner was painted over the course of the summer by MFA student Robbin Lou Bates, who submitted the design to the Parish Memorial Library Mural Competition. It was Bates first mural of this size, and she says shes proud of the work and the learning opportunities that came with it.

I planned out my drawing and projected it on the wall, but it didnt fill the whole wall, Bates said. Learning to troubleshoot that and add additional things to fill the space was the biggest challenge.

The mural is situated under a skylight, so the abstract block designs are flooded with natural light. The area works in favor of Bates style because, according to her instructors, she is inspired by space, geographical, historical and personal.

The Parish Mural Competition is the first of several to be held by the library.SANTA FE, N.M.  New Mexico would trade in its Columbus Day holiday for a tribute to Native Americans instead under a bill being drafted in anticipation of next years legislative session.

The proposed legislation to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day from Democratic state Rep. Derrick Lente, a tribal member of Sandia Pueblo, has cleared its first hurdle with an unopposed committee endorsement. The bill cant be introduced until Dec. 15, and it was unclear Monday whether Democratic Gov.-elect Michelle Lujan Grisham supports the proposal to rename the state holiday on the second Monday in October.

At least five states  from Hawaii to Vermont  have done away with Columbus Day celebration in deference to Native Americans, though the federal Columbus holiday remains in place.

I think that this state in particular owes it to the Native people, said Lente, referring to 23 recognized Native American communities in New Mexico. He highlighted the persecutions, the enslavement, the killings of indigenous people that ensued with Christopher Columbus arrival to the Caribbean.

Tributes to European conquerors in many New Mexico communities are being rewritten out of consideration for Native Americans, even amid enduring expressions of pride in the states Spanish colonial history that dates back to the late 16th century.

Indigenous Peoples Day already is celebrated by Albuquerque, New Mexicos largest city, and the state capital of Santa Fe, which this year discontinued a costumed pageant marking the return of Spanish colonists and conqueror Don Diego de Vargas a dozen years after a 1680 Indian revolt. The pageant drew vehement protests.

Conchita Lucero, former president of the New Mexico Hispanic Cultural Preservation League, bristled at the idea of renaming Columbus Day.

I really think that we need to focus on some of the good things that he did too, she said of Columbus.

Javier Sanchez, the Republican mayor of Espanola, said the state remains strongly attached to its colonial history  but less so to Columbus.

Hes an Italian guy that fewer people have a connection with here, Sanchez said.

Sanchez recently helped repeal Espanolas involvement an annual tribute to Spanish conquistador Juan de Onate, who is revered as a Hispanic founding father and reviled for brutality against Native Americans. Sanchez is helping the town develop new cultural celebrations.

Its more important to celebrate who we are now, without either glorifying or vilifying what has happened in the past, Sanchez said.BRIGHTON, Colo.  A Colorado man who told police he shot a teenager in the head after she hired him to kill her via a Craigslist ad pleaded guilty to second-degree murder Monday as part of a plea agreement with prosecutors.

The agreement allowed Joseph Lopez, who had been charged with first-degree murder, to avoid a possible life sentence for 19-year-old Natalie Bollingers death. Bollingers body was found in a wooded area north of Denver in late December, one day after she was reported missing.

Adams County District Judge Roberto Ramirez sentenced Lopez, who is 23, to serve a maximum of 48 years in prison.

According to court records, Lopez told police that he responded to a Craigslist ad titled I want to put a hit on myself and said Bollinger asked him to shoot her. Lopez told police he tried to change Bollingers mind when they met but eventually he parked the car they were driving in and he shot her.

Bollinger provided the gun, Lopez said.

Prosecutors said Lopez should have called 911 or found help for Bollinger after he saw the ad. Bollinger and Lopez texted each other dozens of times before he picked her up and they drove around for an extended period before he killed her, they said.

He didnt respond as a human being, Chief Deputy District Attorney Ally Baber said. He responded as a predator.

An autopsy report found that Bollinger died of a single gunshot wound to the head. KUSA-TV reports that autopsy also found a potentially lethal level of heroin in Bollingers body.

Some of Bollingers family members objected to the plea deal during Lopez sentencing hearing. Bollingers father, Ted, told KMGH-TV that the prosecutors agreement with Lopez felt like spit in my familys face.

Theres no justice in this, Ted Bollinger said.WASHINGTON  White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said the U.S. and China are pretty close to an agreement on stopping intellectual property theft.

The two countries are pretty close on some agreements on IP theft, pretty close to some agreements on the forced transfer of technology from American companies, Kudlow, director of the White House National Economic Council, told reporters Monday in a briefing on trade talks. When I say pretty close, they are kind of on the front burner, hot list that weve developed with them.

U.S. complaints about alleged Chinese theft of intellectual property and forced technology transfers from American companies seeking to do business in China are central issues in President Donald Trumps trade war with Beijing.

Kudlow also said he expects China will bring tariffs on autos imported from the U.S. to zero. China imposes a 15 percent tariff on imported vehicles and raised the levy on U.S. cars to 40 percent in retaliation for tariffs the Trump administration imposed on Chinese products.

Kudlow briefed reporters following talks at the Group of 20 summit over the weekend between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Auto tariffs will be discussed right away in follow-up talks, Kudlow said.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said earlier in the day China has agreed to reduce tariffs on imported automobiles but declined to give details. Trump jolted car stocks by announcing late Sunday on Twitter that a deal had been reached, without any specifics.

Trump said in the tweet that China would reduce and remove tariffs on American-made vehicles, raising more questions about the outcome of his meeting with Xi.



2018 Bloomberg News

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Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

-

PHOTO (for help with images, contact 312-222-4194):WASHINGTON  Facing the nation for the first time as its president, George H.W. Bush vowed to lead with humility, moral principle and a spirit of unity.

Deep successes are made not of gold and silk but of better hearts and finer souls, Bush said in 1989, adding: America is never wholly herself unless she is engaged in high moral principle. We as a people have such a purpose today. It is to make kinder the face of the nation and gentler the face of the world.

Nearly three decades later, Bushs inaugural address stands in sharp contrast with that of President Donald Trump, a fellow Republican whose brand is defined by material success, unrestrained aggression toward his rivals and disdain for traditional coalitions at home and abroad. Their presidencies separated by a single generation, the nations 41st and 45th presidents shared little in personality or worldview.

And beyond personality, the conflicting presidencies underscore just how little remains today of the Grand Old Party that Bush once led. Trumps GOP has undercut long-cherished Republican pillars of free trade, federal spending and environmental protection.

One of Bushs former senior aides, Ron Kaufman, now a Republican national committeeman from Massachusetts, said Bushs death marked the end of a culture  a culture of civility.

Above all, Kaufman and other Republican leaders  many Trump supporters  lamented the partisan divide that dominates modern politics in America, made even starker when compared to the style and substance of Bush.

The Bush family raised the level of public decency in American politics, former South Carolina GOP Chairman Matt Moore said. Theyre just kind and generous. We need more of that, frankly, in American politics.

Public service was the norm for Bush, who held diplomatic posts at the United Nations and in China  along with leading the Republican National Committee and the CIA  before taking office. Bush promoted the value of cooperation as commander in chief, leading the United States into the first Persian Gulf War only after assembling a broad international coalition to help repeal Iraqi forces from Kuwait.

And at home, Bush was a master of smaller gestures that highlighted his belief in the value of personal relationships. He wrote personal notes, sent gifts and stayed in touch with political allies and adversaries alike.

Just two years ago, Bush sent Kaufman what he says may be his favorite Christmas gift of all time: a picture of the five living presidents signed by each of them.

I defy you to find someone now, anywhere, who doesnt like George Herbert Walker Bush, Kaufman said.

By contrast, Trump is best known for a brash style marked by self-promotion and personal attacks against his rivals.

During the 2016 campaign, he lashed out at former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, Bushs son, as low-energy. He continued the rain of insults from the Oval Office. In recent weeks, the president described separate rivals as horseface, a thief, a total lightweight and a crazed and stumbling lunatic.

And while he had little experience on the world stage coming into office, Trump has been equally willing to criticize long-standing international alliances. He has repeatedly heaped praise on autocrats like Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, only to lash out at allies like Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whom Trump in June attacked as very dishonest and weak. The U.S. president has also described NATO as obsolete and suggested that the United Nations might be a waste of time and money.

The conflicting styles of an establishment Republican and a political outsider are easy to see even for veteran GOP operative Henry Barbour, who worked in the Bush administration and supports Trump as a Republican national committeeman from Mississippi.

He was a diplomat, having served in China, so he wasnt rash in his responses. Always thoughtful, deliberate, and I think it served him well, Barbour said of Bush. Complete class act.

Bushs class, of course, wasnt enough to help him win re-election. He is the last sitting president to lose his bid for a second term.

His political downfall, however, was hastened by his willingness to work with others. The 41st president compromised with Democrats to craft a spending package that included higher taxes, a direct violation of his No new taxes campaign pledge.

He told us, Im signing my death warrant for the second term,' Kaufman said. But it was the right thing to do.

Trump has shown no willingness to strike deals with the opposition party. Just the opposite, he has used the power of the presidency to fuel new levels of partisan division.

Among the issues on which he hasnt sought compromise: climate change.

Within days of taking office, Trump signed executive actions to advance the construction of oil pipelines passionately opposed by environmental activists. He said last week that he simply didnt believe an assessment produced by his own administration and scores of scientists warning that climate change posed a profound threat to the health of the nation.

Bush, like the Republican Party of his day, was far more focused on environmental protection. In 1989, his administration penned a memo insisting that we simply cannot wait to address climate change: The costs of inaction will be too high.

Beyond policy, those who knew Bush say he will always be remembered as a family man.

While the current president has been married three times and faces allegations of extramarital affairs, Bush was married to the same woman for more than 70 years. His family affectionately referred to him as Poppy.

Even though in some respects the political direction of the country is off in another direction, well never forget George H.W. Bush and the contributions he made, said Bruce Ash, a Republican national committeeman from Arizona. It wasnt just his patriotism, and it wasnt just his service. It was his decency.

Im glad hes associated with the Republican Party, he said.

___

See APs complete coverage of George H.W. Bush here: https://www.apnews.com/tag/GeorgeHWBushThis is an abridged version of a story published in the Valencia County News-Bulletin. The full story can be found here.

BELEN  A month after the Valencia County commission unanimously voted to enter into a contract with Lovelace Health System for a hospital/24-hour emergency health care facility, the provider has filed an appeal in district court, asking to be released from fulfilling the contract.

Commissioners voted 5-0 on Oct. 25 to award the contract to LHS to build and operate the facility. Lovelace has not signed the contract.

Lovelace, the only provider to respond to a request for proposals for the health care facility put out by the county in late April, filed a notice of appeal in the 13th Judicial District Court last week.

The notice doesnt contain the basis of the appeal, but in a letter dated Oct. 24, Lovelace gave two reasons for its withdrawal.

The provider claims it didnt understand that the commission required it to make cash payments to subsidize the costs of the third-party medical services contract for inmates at the Valencia County Detention Center.

In addition, LHS believed the contract to be for eight years, but after discussion with the commission and county attorneys said it came to understand the commission required a provision to allow for termination of the contract by the county after the third year.

These are requirements with which LHS simply cannot comply, both from a business standpoint and potentially from a legal one  the letter reads.

In a response to Lovelace dated Oct. 25, county purchasing officer Rustin Porter argued that under the conditions of the RFP, responses are considered firm for 90 days after the due date for proposals.

According to the solicitation, LHSs response is considered firm until Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018, Porter wrote.LAS CRUCES  State Police impounded more than 8,000 absentee voter ballots in Dona Ana County on Monday morning so Republican Congressional candidate Yvette Herrells legal team can inspect the material that gave Democrat Xochitl Torres Small the votes she needed to win the election.

The State Police showed up, oh, about 7:30 or so, given instructions by the judge, said Dona Ana County Clerk Amanda Lopez Askin.

Herrells five-member legal team began painstakingly reviewing absentee voter applications and the envelopes that contained the absentee ballots cast in New Mexicos 2nd Congressional District.

State statute allows any candidate the right to inspect ballots and other election material. Herrell filed a lawsuit seeking impoundment after Torres Small came from behind to win the election following a delay in counting Dona Ana County absentee ballots.

Whatever we can do in Dona Ana County to confirm voter confidence, for them to know the process was administered with integrity, we will do it, Lopez Askin said.

The court order from District Judge Manuel Arrieta allowed the ballots to remain at the county elections warehouse rather than be moved to the courthouse. The judge appointed a proxy to remain on site to monitor the inspection process, which also requires protection of voter privacy, including confidential information such as dates of birth and Social Security numbers.

An employee with the County Clerks Office on Monday examined each envelope that contained a ballot and redacted any information that could identify the person casting the ballot before it was given to Herrells team for inspection.

This is just another closer look, said Kate Girard, a legal representative for Torres-Small present during the inspection. She noted during the election observers and challengers dont get to touch material.

Girard said she wholeheartedly supports a candidates right to an inspection and they dont have to have a legal basis for that, just to ensure the process is as transparent as possible.

Torres-Small, meanwhile, is preparing to assume office Jan. 3 as southern New Mexicos first Congresswoman and participated in new member orientation in Washington, D.C.

Herrell has 10 days to review election material. Her representatives involved in the inspection and legal team did not want to comment on the process.

There are certain things I am concerned about, said Joseph Fuller, a Dona Ana County Republican, about the absentee voter count.

Fuller plans to be at the warehouse as an observer during the entire inspection process. My hope is I dont have to take notes and everything runs smooth, said Fuller.

He admitted the process is very boring. If its exciting, something is wrong.ANCHORAGE, Alaska  Life was beginning to return to normal Monday in Alaska following the powerful earthquake near Anchorage, but people nervous about aftershocks were still grappling with damage that closed public buildings and schools, clogged roads and knocked homes off foundations.

Some residents went back to work. But state transportation officials again urged people who live north and south of Anchorage to take the day off or work from home to reduce traffic.

Rockfalls were still occurring along cliff-lined Seward Highway, while major repairs were underway on hard-hit Glenn Highway, the main road leading north of the city, Department of Transportation spokeswoman Meadow Bailey said.

We dont want the commute to be frustrating because people will experience delays, she said.

Residents still jittery from the 7.0 quake on Friday have been rattled even further by more than 1,700 aftershocks. A dozen have had magnitudes of 4.5 or greater.

Anything that moves, youre on your last nerve, said Anchorage resident Lyn Matthews, whose home sustained substantial structural damage, including a sunken foundation.

Matthews, who was back at work at a chiropractors office, and her husband have no earthquake insurance.

Im scared to death, she said.

The earthquake struck 7 miles (11 kilometers) north of Anchorage, swaying buildings, disrupting power and causing heavy damage to Glenn Highway.

There were no reports of deaths, serious injuries or widespread catastrophic damage in the state with strict building codes implemented after a 1964 earthquake with a magnitude of 9.2  the second most powerful of any quake ever recorded.

No outbreaks of disease or other major health problems have been reported.

Still, federal officials declared a public health emergency on Monday, saying the action will ensure that Medicaid funds continue to be issued despite the temporary closure of offices. Mental health aid is also available for people being stressed by the disaster.

Remember, whatever youre feeling right now is valid, Anchorage Health and Human Services director Natasha Pineda said at a weekend briefing.

Earthquake forecasts cited a 4 percent chance of another earthquake with a magnitude of 7.0 or greater in the first week after the first quake.

The chance is very small, but its not impossible, U.S. Geological Survey Geophysicist Paul Caruso said.

The federal courthouse in Anchorage was among structures that remained closed. Officials said the U.S. District Court and the attached federal building in Anchorage will be closed at least through Thursday following a preliminary evaluation by the General Services Administration.

GSA spokesman Chad Hutson said boilers in the federal building were leaking, leaving it without heat.

The nearby Historic Federal Building, where the bankruptcy court is located, also remained closed. Officials said late Monday afternoon a detailed evaluation of the building found no structural deficiencies and the building is set to reopen Tuesday.

Schools in Anchorage have been closed until Dec. 10, which should also reduce traffic. An elementary school in the Anchorage suburb of Eagle River has been deemed unsafe to occupy, while multiple other campuses in the region are undergoing repairs and cleanup, according to the Anchorage School District.

A middle school in the small town of Houston north of Anchorage likely will remain closed through the year.

The supply chain of food and other goods delivered to the Port of Anchorage from the Lower 48 has not been disrupted.

About 90 percent of all the goods sold in Alaska are delivered to the Port of Anchorage, where officials have completed a preliminary damage assessment. There were some structural issues with some trestles, but nothing that should impede operations, according to Municipal Manager Bill Falsey.

___

Associated Press Mark Thiessen in Anchorage, Alaska, contributed to this report.

___

Follow Rachel DOro at https://twitter.com/rdoroOfficials at a preschool in Hawaii have apologized after young children were given Pine-Sol instead of apple juice to drink during a morning snack time, a mix-up that health officials said occurred because the two liquids were the same color.

The incident involving the household cleaning liquid took place on Tuesday at the preschool at Kilohana United Methodist Church in Honolulu.

A classroom assistant prepared the snacks  which should have been crackers and apple juice  in the preschools kitchen, according to an inspection report by the Hawaii State Department of Health.

Instead of juice, however, the assistant reportedly grabbed a container of Pine-Sol, a decades-old brand of household cleaner that comes in a variety of scents, though none particularly reminiscent of apple juice.

The assistant saw the yellow/brown colored liquid container on a cleanup cart in the kitchen and returned to the classroom with the crackers and container with liquid, the inspection report stated. The assistant poured the liquid into cups as the classroom teacher oversaw the students at the restroom.

The report noted that the classroom teacher smelled that it was not apple juice and stopped the students from drinking it.

However, Honolulu Emergency Medical Services confirmed to The Washington Post that paramedics examined three female students, two 5-year-olds and one 4-year-old, who had taken at least a sip from their cups.

We can confirm they were given a substance that was considered poisonous for human consumption, Honolulu EMS spokesman Dustin Malama told The Post. When our paramedics evaluated the children, they seemed perfectly fine and they were laughing and playing. It seemed like nothing had happened.

Malama said that the girls showed no obvious signs of injury, trauma or sickness and that their parents declined transport to the hospital. Poison-control specialists advised them that the girls didnt drink nearly enough to be considered a problem, he added.

As far as the incident goes  aside from the obvious [question of] how do you mistake Pine-Sol and apple juice?  it was fairly unremarkable, Malama said.

Nevertheless, several parents were outraged at the switch-up. According to the inspection report, the Pine-Sol was properly labeled in its original container and the cart on which it had been found did not contain food items, only a trash can and cleaning supplies.

The preschools cleaning supplies are stored below the kitchen sink and in the janitors room, the report stated, while food items are properly stored and labeled in the kitchen cabinets.

I think its extremely terrifying, parent Turina Lovelin told KHON News. Its very, very scary, but its hard for me, or any of the people that Ive spoken to, to understand how it happened in the first place.

Preschool officials emailed parents to inform them about the incident and held a meeting, describing the mix-up as unfortunate and vowing to reexamine its snack preparation process to rule out the smallest possibility of an occurrence like this from happening again, according to Hawaii News Now.

The classroom assistant who served the Pine-Sol no longer works at the preschool, KHON reported.

The preschools director did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday.

There was no food-safety violation noted, according to the health departments inspection report.The combination of a Pacific storm system and a cold front from the northeast could bring rain and snow to New Mexico on Thursday and Friday, meteorologists at the National Weather Service said.

A Pacific storm system expected to affect northern and central New Mexico could bring snow to elevations above 9,000 feet and a mix of rain and snow to the lower elevations.

Ahead of the storm system, however, a cold front will move into the eastern plains late today, setting the stage for a mixed bag of wintry precipitation, including the possibility of sleet and freezing rain, Thursday and Friday.

Daniel Porter, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, said travel could be affected, especially along and south of Interstate 40 in the east-central plains, where a wintry mix of precipitation is forecast.

Its going to be a warmer system, Porter said. Were going to have some precipitation. Some of it will be in the form of winter precipitation, but the finer details of the potential impact  the type of precipitation  are still up for debate. Were going to work those details out as the system gets toward New Mexico.

A chance of rain is in the Albuquerque forecast for Thursday and Friday, at least for now, with rain possibly turning into snow late Friday.

Residents should monitor forecasts, because conditions could change depending on the timing of the arrival of the front and main storm system.

Last weekends snow

Areas of the drought-plagued Four Corners area received much-needed precipitation in the form of snow last weekend. Observers in the Farmington area reported snow amounts between 1.3 and 2.8 inches Saturday and Sunday, and an observer in Bloomfield reported 5 inches of snow.

Preliminary snow reports across Bernalillo County for the 47-hour period that ended at 9:30 a.m. Monday were:

Sandia Peak Ski Area, 5 inches

Sedillo, around 4 inches

Cedro, 4 inches

San Antonito, 3.5 inches

Tijeras, 3 inches

Canoncito, 2.4 inches

Albuquerque, Spain and Imperata NE 2 inches

Sandia Park, 2 inches

Albuquerque, Candelaria and Morris NE 1.7 inches

Albuquerque, Indian School and Chelwood Park NE, 1.6 inches

Four Hills area, 1.5 inches

Albuquerque, Paradise and Unser NW, 1.5 inches.

The Albuquerque International Sunport received 0.3 inch of snow during the two days.Three lawyers confer at the Supreme Court, 1953. Gelatin silver print. New York World-Telegram & Sun Collection, Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress (98)

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and its legal offspring, the Legal Defense and Educational Fund, developed a systematic attack against the doctrine of separate but equal. The campaign started at the graduate and professional educational levels. The attack culminated in five separate cases gathered together under the name of one of themOliver Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas.

Aware of the gravity of the issue and concerned with the possible political and social repercussions, the U.S. Supreme Court heard the case argued on three separate occasions in as many years. The Court weighed carefully considerations involving adherence to legal precedent, social-science findings on the negative effects of segregation, and the marked inferiority of the schools that African Americans were forced to attend.

The Supreme Court announced its unanimous decision on May 17, 1954. It held that school segregation violated the Equal Protection and Due Process clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment. The following year the Court ordered desegregation with all deliberate speed.Thank you for reading!

Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading.CHICO, Calif. - Recology, an employee-owned company, recently donated $100,000 to the Camp Fire Relief Fund at the

Golden Valley Bank Community Foundation.

The check was presented by Dan Shea, General Manager of Recology Butte and Colusa Counties.

"We are proud to be part of this community and the relief efforts for the fire victims," Shea said. "We look forward to helping the Foundation direct this money to where it is needed most."

Recology joined many local companies assisting the Foundations Camp Fire fundraising efforts and their contribution pushed the total to over $2 million.

The Foundation and its fundraising partners are accepting general contributions for Camp Fire Relief.

Checks can be made payable to GVBCF  Camp Fire and dropped off or mailed to the Bank. Donations can also be accepted through PayPal through the Foundations website at www.goldenvalley.bank.

CLICK THIS LINK to see our Camp Fire Donations Page

CLICK THIS LINK to visit our FIRE WATCH section of our website, containing articles including latest information, missing person's information and official re-entry notices.President Donald Trump started Monday by congratulating himself for making direct progress on trade with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping -- but now the work of hammering out a deal will fall to top American trade envoy Robert Lighthizer.

National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow and China trade adviser Peter Navarro said on Monday that Lighthizer would lead negotiations with China for the United States.

Asia Business figures Business, economy and trade China Continents and regions Donald Trump East Asia Government and public administration Government bodies and offices International trade North America Political Figures - US Politics Steven Mnuchin The Americas Trade and development United States US federal government White House Automakers and manufacturing Automotive industry Business and industry sectors Domestic automakers Economic policy Economy and economic indicators International trade law Political Figures - Intl Tariffs and customs Trade regulation and policy Xi Jinping Agriculture Agriculture, forestry, and commercial fishing CNBC Comcast Corp Companies International relations International relations and national security Larry Kudlow Misc people NBCUniversal Peter Navarro Robert Lighthizer

Lighthizer is a China hardliner who has been pressing for more tariffs to build leverage over Beijing, while Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, a former Wall Street investment banker who has been more attuned to the market's jitters, has been trying to encourage a settlement.

On a call with reporters, Kudlow said Mnuchin would continue to be "very involved" in negotiations, including on currency issues, while Lighthizer would be responsible for ensuring that China keeps its commitments and sticks to agreed time frames within the 90-day window set by Trump.

"I don't think it's either or," Kudlow said, referring to Mnuchin and Lighthizer, who he described as the "best trade negotiator in the business." He added: "Mr. Lighthizer will be as vigilant as anybody in the business in monitoring this."

Trump has fostered rivalries among his closest advisers on China, pitting former Wall Streeters such as Mnuchin and Kudlow against China hawks Lighthizer and Navarro.

In an early morning interview on National Public Radio, Navarro -- who has clashed with his White House colleagues on how the US should proceed in its negotiations with China -- first said that Lighthizer would be overseeing negotiations.

Shortly after Navarro's interview, Mnuchin appeared on CNBC, where he made clear there's only one person leading trade negotiations with China, and that's the President.

"It's clear that President Trump is going to be the one who leads the negotiations, and the team will be an inclusive team," said Mnuchin during an interview on CNBC's "Squawk Box."

Mnuchin's message was echoed by the President himself, who boasted on Twitter about his relationship with Xi while his Treasury secretary was still speaking on television.

"He and I are the only two people that can bring about massive and very positive change, on trade and far beyond, between our two great Nations. A solution for North Korea is a great thing for China and ALL!" Trump tweeted.

Over the weekend, the leaders of the world's largest trading partners struck a temporary truce, with Trump agreeing to maintain the 10% tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods, and not raise them to 25% "at this time," ahead of a January 1 deadline.

In exchange, China agreed it was willing to purchase a "very substantial" amount of agriculture, energy and other goods from the United States to help reduce the trade imbalance -- an achievement Trump also touted on Twitter, saying "Farmers, I LOVE YOU!"

It will now be up to US and Chinese negotiators to craft a deal with "real agreement" on "specific action items and deliverables and time frames," said Mnuchin in the interview.

Mnuchin reiterated that the Trump administration was committed to reaching a resolution.

"This is not going to be something where there is soft commitments that get kicked down the road," Mnuchin said on CNBC. He described the President's discussion with Xi as "very, very specific."

Mnuchin told reporters at the White House that both leaders -- Trump and Xi -- have extended invitations to their respective countries, but no specific time or date has been set for the next round of talks.

"My expectation is that with all these issues, they will be meeting in the near future," he said.

Mnuchin added that there would be changes to the US agricultural sector "right away," a signal to US soybean farmers who have been the first to feel pain from Chinese retaliation.

The treasury secretary said on CNBC that the Chinese government had made $1.2 trillion in additional commitments to buy US goods, including on agriculture.

He also said there would be an "immediate focus on reducing auto tariffs," after the President announced China would be willing to "reduce and remove" levies on US automakers from 40%.

Trump didn't specify when the change would happen or what the new tariff level would be.

Kudlow told reporters in a briefing call at lunchtime Monday that the 90-day clock for negotiations would start on January 1, when the tariffs were set to escalate. But on Monday evening, the White House issued a corrected transcript stating that the 90-day clock on trade negotiations with China began December 1, not January 1.

The correction came several hours after CNN asked the White House for clarity on Kudlow's comment, which created a period of confusion because even White House officials were under the impression that the clock had already started ticking on the trade truce between the two countries.

"Well, on the tariff raise, the President has said 90 days beginning January 1, which is when it was going to go -- the 10 to 25 was going to go into effect. So that's his -- that's the policy," Kudlow said on the press call Monday. The White House later crossed through the word January and inserted the word December in the corrected transcript.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on why the correction was made that way.

Kudlow also said a commitment was made by the Chinese government but that no agreement has been reached on what the new tariffs would be. He said he expects auto tariffs to drop to zero.

"This is an area," said Kudlow, "where that word 'immediately' comes in. Let's get rolling folks. Today is Monday. Dinner was Saturday. Feel free to take important steps to give more credibility."

Kudlow told reporters that Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, a key figure in the trade discussions, conveyed at the dinner that Beijing was willing to move ahead to change tariffs and non-tariff barriers "immediately" -- but did not specify particular sectors.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang declined to comment Monday on Trump's statement, referring questions to "the relevant authorities."

Ahead of this weekend's meeting, the President had directed his top trade negotiator to "examine all tools" available to address significantly higher tariffs imposed by China on US automakers.

The secretary said there were several meetings in advance of the leaders' meeting in Buenos Aires and no decisions were made until the two presidents met over a steak dinner. Mnuchin met with He twice along with Kudlow and Navarro ahead of the dinner, according to Kudlow.

Mnuchin signaled there was a big difference in tone on Saturday with a "very genuine offer" by Xi to Trump. The President described the meeting as "extraordinary" and as a "BIG leap forward" in US-China relations in another tweet earlier Monday morning.

The treasury secretary also added pressure on Chinese negotiators to keep their promises to the American President, noting that Trump has ample "tools in the toolbox" to escalate tariffs on Beijing if talks don't proceed as planned.

"I'm taking President Xi at his word on his commitment to President Trump, but they have to deliver on this," Mnuchin told reporters. "The President has been clear he expects to move forward, but he has reserved the ability to do additional tariffs if they're not successful."

The secretary offered some buffer for negotiators on what could be achievable over the next 90 days, noting there could be a "phased-in approach."PLUMAS COUNTY, Calif. - Dominic Potts is 21-years-old and lives in Plumas County. He has been reported missing.

The Plumas County Sheriff's Office says Potts was last seen at a home in Greenville the evening of Nov. 4, 2018, and that he was reported missing on Nov. 6, 2018.

His truck was located near Chester.

Potts worked for Dig It Construction in Chester, California and resided in Greenville.

His mother told Action News Now that his truck was seen at the end of 1st Avenue in Chester near Lake Almanor on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018, but was not reported to the police until Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. They said officers found his phone but no evidence pointing to a reason for his disappearance.

His mother, Sesha Putnam, also said the area where his truck was found has been searched by citizens on foot, local Search and Rescue, and with ATVs and an airplane.

Hat Creek Construction is offering a $5,000 reward for any information about his whereabouts. Dominics father works for the construction company.

If you have any information as to Potts whereabouts, please contact the Plumas County Sheriffs Office at (530) 283-6300.UPDATE 5:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 3, 2018 - Officers have identified the suspect as 20-year-old Jeromy Waybright. They located him in his car away from his residence.

Upon taking him out of his vehicle, they discovered a handgun on the seat that they later discovered was stolen from a residential burglary in Chico.

Waybright was arrested and taken to the Chico Police Department for booking. He was booked for armed robbery, being in possession of a stolen handgun and carrying a concealed firearm. He was transported to Butte County Jail.

---

CHICO, Calif. - Chico Police are now searching for a man who robbed yogurt shop Jon & Bon's, threatening employees at gunpoint.

This happened just after 9:30 p.m. Sunday night at the store on Mangrove Avenue.

Police on scene told Action News Now that they believe the robber is a man, but he was wearing a ski mask, so they have very little information about his identity at this time.

The business does have security cameras that likely captured the robbery.

None of the employees were harmed.

NEWS APP:

DOWNLOAD OUR NEWS APP FOR LATEST UPDATES: iOS | AndroidBUTTE COUNTY, Calif. - Skip Culton is a musician and songwriter who has written and recorded "Another Prayer for Paradise," a sort of lament celebrating the joys experienced growing up in his hometown that was destroyed by the Camp Fire.

(There is more about Skip Culton below the video)

Culton is a single father of two who grew up in the Town of Paradise and has lived there for more than 30 years.

He said he and his family evacuated safely but lost everything in the fire.

This song he has posted on his Facebook page has been shared widely this weekend and has brought people together.

Culton said since the song has been shared he has been invited to Butte College to get "Another Prayer for Paradise" professionally recorded by students in the Recording Arts Department. He also said he will be working with Sacramento's Dynasty Video Productions to produce a music video.

The goal, Culton said, is to use the song and the video to create national awareness and support for those victims who are still homeless during the holidays.

He said he is also working with KZFR 90.1 FM, The Camp Fire Guitar Project and the Camp Fire Musicians Relief Fund to help get donated guitars, instruments and equipment to musicians who lost everything.

Culton works at the Chico Enterprise Record as his day job, and at other times he manages a music group called the Skip Culton Project.

He not only penned and performed this lament, but it appears the song is also serving to rally the community together. "Together we remain #ParadiseStrong," he said.REDDING, Calif. - The annual Redding Lighted Christmas Parade was held Saturday night. The theme of this year's downtown parade was "Christmas Lights, Camera, Action." Every car and float was covered in lights. The parade began at the intersection of California and Tehama. The route then headed south to Sacramento, turning on Pine and ending at Yuba. This year the Redding Fire Department and other first responders led the parade through the streets of Redding.CHICO, Calif.-- Security experts believe the data stolen from the Marriott hotel empire in a massive breach could be used for espionage.

Hackers stole data from about half a billion guests of former Starwood Chain Properties over four years.

The reservation system for the company could attract enemies of the state that want to learn about where military and government officials are going, said Jesse Varsalone, a University of Maryland cybersecurity expert who talked to the Associated Press.

"There are just so many things you can extrapolate from people staying at hotels," Varsalone explained.

That includes credit card and passport numbers, birthdates, phone numbers and hotel arrival and departure dates.

A local ethical hacker from Chico, William Caput, explained why it may have taken so long for the company to detect the breach - and why many in his field suspect it was about more than monetary theft.

"The thought is that they weren't using it for credit card information, but for traveler information, data mining individuals, government officials finding out where they were going, what hotels they were staying at, bugging the rooms if it got to that level," said Caput.

The New York Attorney General is investigating the breach.

Experts say the best way to protect yourself from identity theft and fraud is to change your passwords often.

NEWS APP:

DOWNLOAD OUR NEWS APP FOR LATEST UPDATES: iOS | AndroidPG&E Worker Crashes Into Business

Chico police say a PG&E worker crashed into a building in Chico this morning. Police say a PG&E worker heading home after a long shift fell asleep at the wheel at around 4:50 a.m. Police say he crashed into a traffic light, and then backed into the business Intero. The worker was sent to the hospital with minor injuries.

Student Displaced by Camp Fire Head Back to School

Butte County students displaced by the Camp Fire are going back to school. The fire forced the closure of all 99 Butte County schools, affecting more than 31,000 students. Today, 87 of those schools will re-open. California's superintendent of public instruction, Tom Torlakson will hold a 9:30 a.m. press conference in Oroville.

Chico Police Searching for Armed Robber

Chico police are searching for a masked, armed robber this morning. He threatened Jon and Bon's employees at gunpoint on Mangrove Avenue last night. Investigators are viewing security camera video for leads this morning.

Four Arrested in Home-Invasion Robbery

Four people were arrested following an armed home-invasion robbery in Redding. The Sheriff's Office said these suspects tied up a couple with zip times at their home on Old Oregon Trail. Authorities said a neighbor came to their rescue and tried to block the suspects from getting away, before a reverse 911 was sent out to neighbors while authorities searched. All four were captured, and now face felony charges.

More Camp Fire Evacuation Zones to be Lifted

Butte County Sheriff's Office is lifting some zones in Magalia and Concow and downgraded other evacuations in Yankee Hill. Butte County environmental health is providing re-entry health and safety kits at checkpoints to those returning.

Camp Fire Community Meeting Tuesday

A Camp Fire community meeting is set for Tuesday in Oroville. It will be at the southside community center on lower Wyandotte Road from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. It will be streamed live on the Cal OES facebook page.Would you like to receive breaking news notifications from The Post and Courier?

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US retailers have welcomed news that the US has decided to hold off on implementing tariffs on $200bn worth of Chinese goods due to be implemented in January.

The delay comes after China and US agreed to a 90-day truce on further tariffs hikes to allow talks to take place.

From January 1 tariffs on $200bn worth of Chinese goods were set to be increased from 10% to 25% as part of an ongoing trade war.

US president Donald Trump also declared via Twitter that China would reduce and remove the 40% tariff it places on US car imports.

The US National Retail Federation (NRF) president and chief executive Matthew Shay said: We commend President Trump for his efforts to restore a fair and balanced trade relationship with China. The administrations decision to give diplomacy a chance and at least temporarily avoid the imposition of increased and additional tariffs is an encouraging sign.



It is clear the administration has heard the voices of those negatively impacted by existing tariffs. We hope this 90-day tariff pause will lead to a positive resolution that removes tariffs altogether and improves US-China trade relations. Retailers are pleased by this progress"

NRF and a coalition of nearly 150 organizations representing retailers, farmers, manufacturers and technology companies sent a letter to the White House last week urging the administration to negotiate with China and forgo a January 2019 tariff increase.Air cargo volumes recorded an increase in October following on from the first decline in demand since 2016 in September.

The latest figures from analyst WorldACD show that volumes increased by 2% year on year in October, with three regions recording improvements for imports and exports.

This follows a decrease in demand in September  the first since March 2016  and compares with a 3.1% increase over the first ten months of the year.

Asia Pacific was the best performing region in October with export growth of 4.2% and imports of 2.7%, for Europe, the corresponding percentages were 0.5% and 2.7% and for Middle East and South Asia there was an improvement of 3.4% & 0.1%.

WorldACD said: "In the other areas, the picture was mixed: Africa and North America grew in incoming but contracted in outgoing traffic, whilst Central and South America showed the opposite trend.

"Both In October and in the year to date, the highest region-to-region growth was observed from Central and South America to Asia Pacific (+33% in October), mainly driven by the export of seafood."

In terms of US dollar yields, WorldACD said origin Asia Pacific recorded an increase against last year of 10.4%, mainly "caused by a 14.3% yield growth in the market from Asia Pacific to North America".

For the first ten months, yields are up by 13.4% year on year.

"A remarkable yield development was noticed in the October-market from Hong Kong to the US: the yield increased by 19.5% year on year, whilst it topped the peak yield of November last year by 35 cents."

The analyst also looked at the impact of trade tariffs on the air cargo market, looking at the US-China markets.

"Taking the totals for the [September and October] for both [China-US] directions together, we noted a year-on-year growth of 1.9%, well above the world average of 0.9%.

"As would be expected, the 4.5% year-on-year growth in air cargo from China to the USA [in October], was largely fueled by a rise in the transport of vulnerable /high-tech goods.

"This sector grew by a whopping 30.5% year on year, much more than the usual seasonal upswing, one would say. More likely a case of US businesses stocking up before tariffs really start to bite."

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GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip  Maj. Gen. Ahmed Abdel Khalek, the Egyptian intelligence officer in charge of his government's Palestinian portfolio, made his first visit to Gaza, arriving Nov. 15, and while there he attended a Nov. 16 funeral procession organized by the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas armed wing, to mourn recently slain fighters. Seven Hamas members, including Nour Baraka, a brigade leader, were killed Nov. 11 in southern Gaza, in clashes with Israeli special forces who infiltrated east of Khan Yunis.

Upon arriving at the Hamas event, Abdel Khalek shook the hands of the movement's political and military leaders, among them Yahya al-Sinwar, who leads the group in Gaza. He then kissed the hands of the children of the deceased. Having paid his respects, the Egyptian then left. His brief appearance at a Hamas event was an unprecedented gesture by an Egyptian official, leading many to speculate about the reasons behind it.

After two days of violence, Nov. 11-13, Egypt had successfully brokered a cease-fire between Hamas and Israel, bringing a quick end to the fiercest military confrontation between them since their 2014 war.

An official for the Egyptian General Intelligence Services who spoke to Al-Monitor on the condition of anonymity, said, Abdel Khaleks participation in the funeral was not pre-planned, but he decided to take this step within the framework of Egyptian reactions protesting Israels recent aggression against Gaza. Egypt believes Israel provoked the recent escalation.

He further explained, Egypt considered the undertaking of the Israeli operation an insult to its ongoing efforts to ratify a genuine truce between the resistance and Israel. Egypt sent a written letter of protest that Abdel Khalek carried to Israel shortly before his visit to Gaza, to ensure that such an act would not be repeated.

He added, The letter carried an Egyptian demand to Israel to stop provoking Hamas by targeting its fighters, who do not currently threaten it, and to proceed with the truce efforts.

The Egyptian official claimed that Abdel Khaleks appearance at the funerals was aimed at showing Hamas and other Palestinians that Egypt is playing a transparent role in the truce effort and that it will not side with Israel at the expense of Gaza or lifting the Israeli blockade ongoing since 2007. Egypt and the United Nations have been heading a negotiating effort since July 2018 to establish a truce between Israel and Hamas, at which time the siege would be lifted.

Ismail Radwan, a leading member of Hamas, told the Hamas-affiliated Felesteen newspaper on Nov. 18 that the negotiations are geared at lifting the blockade completely, halting Israeli aggression on Gaza, expanding the fishing [zone], improving power supplies to Gaza, facilitating the movement of citizens and merchandise through the crossings and encouraging the free flow of export products, the reconstruction of Gaza and implementing relief and development projects in the Gaza Strip.

Egypt's efforts have already succeeded in obtaining some relief for Gaza, such as Israel agreeing to the entry of Qatari-supplied fuel on Oct. 9 to operate power plant generators. As a result, residents now have electricity for up to eight continuous hours a day, compared to barely four hours before the shipment. On Oct. 31, Israel expanded the fishing zone off the Gaza coast to nine nautical miles, compared to six previously. In another development, despite the ongoing Great Return March on the Israel-Gaza border, the number of incendiary balloons and kites launched from Gaza into Israel are reported to have dropped significantly in the past few weeks.

According to the Egyptian intelligence official, Egypt will continue its efforts until all Palestinian demands are met. Egypt hopes to instill lasting peace between Gaza and Israel through conciliation.

Another Hamas leader, Yahya Moussa, called Abdel Khaleks gesture proof of the improving relations between us and Egypt, which is playing a decent role as mediator in reaching conciliation with Israel.

Moussa described the Israeli infiltration into Gaza as insidious, adding, Israel has disregarded the Egyptian efforts while we remain committed to refraining from any military act against Israel, out of respect for Egypts endeavors. But, we will break our commitment and defend ourselves, at the first hint of Israeli aggression against Gaza.

Talal Okal, a political analyst and writer for the Palestinian newspaper Al-Ayam, told Al-Monitor, Egypt considered Israels secret infiltration of Gaza and killing of Al-Qassam fighters an insult to its mediation and as undermining its efforts to cement a conciliation. Egypts participation in the funeral procession aims at returning the insult to Israel.

Okal added, [This act] proves Egypts decency as a broker, unlike US mediation between the Palestinian [leadership] and Israel, which repeatedly showed complete bias toward Israel.

Mostafa al-Sawaf, a political writer and analyst for Felesteen, sees Abdel Khaleks visit to the procession as balanced. Sawaf explained to Al-Monitor, He paid his respects to the families, then left without attending the whole ceremony, to avoid angering Israel.

Sawaf also claimed that Abdel Khalek's action heralds a new stage in Hamas-Egyptian relations, which, he said, have been marred by tensions due to unproven Egyptian accusations of Hamas promoting chaos and disorder in Sinai.

Also according to Sawaf, even though Hamas belongs to the Muslim Brotherhood, which the Egyptian regime considers a terrorist group, Cairo is differentiating between the two because it believes Hamas cannot be overlooked in a political solution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.Syria appears to have way too much of a "good" thing. The regime finds itself flooded with numerous paramilitary networks originally created to support its war against the opposition. That yearslong civil war seems to be winding down, though peace talks have been anything but smooth.

The government is working to stabilize security in the areas under its control, in part by reintegrating the paramilitary groups into its forces. These thousands of militants include former rebels who have surrendered. So far, it's been a small-scale effort conducted by superficial means. The regime needs to develop a long-term, institutionalized plan.

At the onset of the Syrian revolution, President Bashar al-Assad's regime was faced with massive manpower problems, with soldiers defecting for political reasons or because they were reluctant to fight outside their home regions as the conflict escalated. Before the war began in 2011, the Syrian army boasted around 300,000 troops, primarily young conscripts. By 2015, that number had dwindled to fewer than 100,000.

Over the years, the regime confronted the problem by outsourcing some of its security needs to militias, which allowed conscripts to fight in local areas. Deserters were able to sort out their military status, meaning they could be granted a kind of amnesty for the time being. Large formations such as the National Defense Forces (NDF), the Local Defense Forces (LDF) and a number of paramilitary groups linked to various intelligence services marked the Syrian security landscape.

The NDF was created by merging local groups, while the LDF, which was considered part of the Syrian army, came under Iran's leadership. The LDF supposedly amounted to 50,000 members, but that figure is believed to be greatly exaggerated, according to Syria expert Aymenn Jawad Tamimi, a fellow at the Philadelphia-based Middle East Forum. Both groups were created about five years ago.

Attempts to bring order to the security sector have taken the form of reintegrating various factions under the 5th and 4th Assault Corps, with some also being folded into Syria's elite Republican Guard.

The regime is focusing on two reintegration mechanisms, first by compelling those who didnt do military service to serve at an individual level in the new auxiliary forces, or by co-opting units to join these formations, Haid Haid, a Syria expert at Chatham House and at the International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation, both in London, told Al-Monitor.

Yet Nawar Shaaban, a Syria expert affiliated with the Istanbul-based Omran Center for Strategic Studies, told Al-Monitor that Russia has led the Syrian paramilitary consolidation.

According to the Russian International Affairs Council, Moscow has been trying since 2015 to minimize the influence of various non-state armed groups and militias fighting for the government."

The 4th Assault Corps in 2015 consisted of different militia and armed groups operating in Latakia and fell under the direct command of the Syrian army, while the 5th Assault Corps united different NDF groups and former Syrian army defectors, according to the council. The 5th Assault Corps includes several volunteer groups  the Assad Shield, Mahardeh Forces, Martyrdom or Victory Groups, ISIS Hunters, Tribal Forces and Baath Brigades  and its weapons are supplied by the Russian army.

Other groups, such as Abu Fadl Abbas, have been integrated into the Republican Guard, Haid explained.

Groups such as the Qalamoun Shield (Dara al-Qalamoun) and Coastal Shield (Dara al-Sahel) have also been placed under the authority of the Republican Guard, according to a recent article published by Carnegie Endowments blog Diwan.

The same article underlined the formation in 2017 of the 30th Division of the Republican Guard, which included all local militias in the area of Aleppo. In 2017, the Middle East Institute estimated pro-regime militias comprised more than 150,000 fighters.

The regime also incorporated rebels who surrendered. According to Haid, the regime has relied on obligatory conscription to integrate former opposition fighters into the official armed forces. Haid believes opposition fighters were lured to join pro-regime auxiliary forces such as the Iran-backed NDF or the Russian-led Fifth Brigade, a process facilitated by local influential figures who acted as intermediaries.

For example, following the 2017 surrender deal in the town of Beit Jann, southwest of Damascus, the former leader of a local rebel group called Liwa Omar bin al-Khattab created a new NDF group called the Beit Jann Battalion, affiliated with the Hermon Regiment, Haid said. Famous rebel commander Ahmad Audeh also joined pro-regime auxiliary groups.

Shaaban said, Moscow has insisted on the reconciliation process in Daraa, Homs and Qalamoun, and on the incorporation of rebel fighters in new structures. They know the regime doesn't have the manpower to fill the void, and they don't want pro-Iranian structures to take over."

While the process appears to have facilitated the integration of a number of militias, it remains riddled with problems.

The integration is incomplete. Structures are keeping their labels and fall under a new security umbrella because the integration is often taking place at a unit level," Shaaban added. "Entities are remaining in the form of parallel structures that operate and exist alongside auxiliary forces, as has been the case of [the] ex-Abu Fadl Abbas forces with the Republican Guard."

Haid said, Militia fighters have been incorporated within auxiliary and emergency forces, rather than regular forces, without any concrete follow-up plans for the future. Likewise, many targeted militias have been co-opted on the unit level rather than on the individual level, which has failed to transfer their loyalty from their backers to the state. The reintegration is still small-scale, with Russia figuring out what to do with all the militants. Another complication is the competition between Russia and Iran, which wants to keep structures such as the LDF independent."

Shaaban concurred, adding that, unlike the NDF, the LDF  which was incorporated officially into the states military apparatus  doesn't require its members to sort out affairs with official military institutions, because the LDF is considered one.

In addition, Iran is also beefing up other parallel structures such as private security companies, which in 2013 amounted to three, a number that has risen to 18. These companies are responsible for managing the security of main highways, oil and gas fields such as the Shaer field, and installations, among them the famous T2 installation, Shaaban said.

There seems to be a struggle between Iran and Russia during the post-war phase in Assads territory. In addition, the process of incorporation is limited in scope and nature. These facts imply that the Syrian state still has a long road ahead to resolve the dilemma it faces.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus political luck may finally be running out after the Israeli police recommended his indictment on bribery charges.

Why it matters: The Israeli police have twice previously recommended indicting the prime minister, so far to no avail. The latest charges, however, offer the most solid and direct case against Netanyahu and have the most potential to spark political change in Israel. The Israeli leader is accused of approving mergers and friendly regulations for telecommunications mogul Shaul Elovitch in exchange for positive coverage in Elovitch's Walla! news site when Netanyahu served as communications minister.

180 million questions: Investigators estimate the value of Netanyahus alleged favorable treatment for Elovitchs business interests at about $180 million. Police say their latest recommendation is backed by solid evidence including tapes and text messages. Netanyahu is also suspected of attempting to disrupt legal proceedings. This is also the first recommendation that connects the prime ministers wife, Sara Netanyahu, to a felony bribery offense. Previously she had only been charged with misdemeanors.

Whats next: Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit is expect to announce his decision on whether to accept the recommendations at some point in 2019. If he proceeds with an indictment, it will be almost impossible for Netanyahu to remain in office even if he wins re-election next year. Already, the cloud of suspicion is making it more difficult for Netanyahus coalition government, which only has a one-seat majority in the Knesset, to remain intact.

Know more: Read Ben Caspits piece today describing the complex political situation arising from the police recommendation.

-Danny ZakenUN Yemen envoy Martin Griffiths arrived in Sanaa today, a major step toward reopening talks to end the war before the end of the year.

Why it matters: Griffiths arrival in Yemens rebel-held capital is a sign that negotiators have made some progress on the confidence-building measures for a peace deal that the UN called for at the General Assembly meeting in September. They include getting Yemeni President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi to pay the salaries of civil servants in Houthi-controlled areas, giving the UN control of the vital port of Hodeidah and exchanging prisoners between the warring groups.

Confidence building: The British diplomat expects to hold talks with the Houthis today, a UN source told the AFP wire service. Meanwhile, 50 wounded rebels will be evacuated from Sanaa, according to the Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen, one of the major precursors to talks.

Griffiths is also pushing to reopen Sanaas airport, a potential step toward preventing a mounting famine that has accelerated amid an uptick in violence in Hodeidah. In August, a UN-backed panel of experts described the severe naval and air restrictions imposed by the Saudi-led coalition, including the effective closure of the airport, as amounting to potential war crimes.

Pyrrhic victory? Griffiths might not eke out a deal to end the war, but his mere presence in Sanaa is a big deal. Houthi rebels forced the last two UN envoys out of the country, even hitting the convoy of Griffiths predecessor, Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, with a barrage of gunfire.

Big questions: Will the Houthis actually show up to the peace talks this time? The Iran-backed rebel group, which practices a unique brand of Shiite Islam, couldnt get off the runway to head to Geneva in September amid divisions in their movement and accusations that the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen wouldnt give them safe passage. And will the Saudis  facing pressure from the US Congress if not from the Donald Trump administration  be willing to come to the table as they try to fend off missile attacks on their cities?

Even if the peace deal succeeds, experts arent convinced it will last. Yemen has a Humpty Dumpty problem, Gregory D. Johnsen, a former member of the UN panel of experts on Yemen, told the Associated Press. Its broken and I dont think anybody, no matter how much money they pour into the country, will be able to put it back together again  and certainly not anytime soon.

Whats next: First, the international community is waiting to see how Griffiths talks with the Houthis go today. The UN is still trying to get Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the Houthis and Yemens exiled government to the table before the end of the month.

On the US side, Christopher Henzel, Trumps nominee to be the next ambassador to Hadis government, will get a hearing in front of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Tuesday afternoon.

Know more: Jack Detsch explains how the Trump administration is trying to put pressure on Iran by calling out arms transfers to the Houthis.

-Jack DetschIran rejected recent United States accusations that the testing of missiles by the country violates a UN resolution and has vowed to continue the tests for the purposes of defense.

Via a statement by the US State Department on Dec. 1, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused Iran of test-firing missiles capable of carrying multiple warheads that could reach Europe. Pompeo said the test violates UN Security Council Resolution 2231, which bans Iran from undertaking any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches using such ballistic missile technology.

Ironically, the UN resolution Pompeo cited is in regard to the Iran nuclear deal, officially called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which the United States itself violated by exiting the deal in May. As noted by analysts, the resolution calls upon Iran to not test missiles specifically designed to carry nuclear weapons rather than just nuclear-capable missiles.

The State Department press release continued: We condemn these activities, and call upon Iran to cease immediately all activities related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons. Pompeo later tweeted the same message. US national security advisor John Bolton followed up with his own tweet warning that the missiles could reach Israel, adding, This provocative behavior cannot be tolerated.

While it is not unexpected that Pomeo and Bolton would take a stand against Iran for allegedly not abiding by a resolution, this time British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt also joined in, tweeting, Deeply concerned by Irans test firing of a medium-range ballistic missile. The tweet said the test firing was inconsistent with UNSCR 2231, and the United Kingdoms support for the JCPOA in no way lessens our concern at Irans destabilizing missile program.

In response to Pompeos claims, spokesman for Irans Ministry of Foreign Affairs Bahram Ghassemi on Dec. 2 neither denied nor confirmed the missile test. He did strike a defiant tone, however, saying, No resolution at the United Nations Security Council has banned Irans missile program or missile tests. He added, Irans missile program has a defensive nature.

Ghassemi noted that the United States is making accusations against Iran by citing a resolution that it has itself violated and is also presently in effect advocating for others to violate as well or otherwise be punished and sanctioned. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted a similar comment, referring to the surrealism in US foreign policy.

Abulfazl Shekarchi, spokesman for Irans armed forces, said Dec. 2, Testing missiles and the missile capabilities of the Islamic Republic is for defense and deterrence, and this will continue. He added that missiles are outside of the framework of negotiations and are related to national security; therefore, we will not seek permission from any country.

According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran has continued to abide by the terms of the nuclear deal. While European countries are attempted to salvage the nuclear deal despite the US exit, most European firms fear the long arm of the US Treasurys ability to apply sanctions.The Israel police has announced its recommendation for Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit to indict Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara for receiving bribes in the so-called Case 4000, concerning Netanyahus ties with telecommunication mogul Shaul Elovitch.

In the coming weeks, Netanyahu will have to make the most important decision in his life. Since he has never really fought for peace but limited himself to maintaining the status quo, his upcoming decision will be a dramatic one; it will determine the way in which the Netanyahu era will come to an end, if indeed it does end. Will he drag Israel into a state of internal chaos? Or will he relax his grip on power and instead try to extricate himself from the imbroglio with minimum damage to all the parties involved? Will Netanyahu try to continue to serve as prime minister during the trial, or will he direct his efforts at a plea bargain?

Anyone who knows Netanyahu knows that he is not capable of giving up or admitting defeat. His nature is to fight to the last bullet, to burn down the house and incite his own people against each other. On the other hand, there is a chance that Netanyahu will at some point understand his situation and realize that he might end his career like former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert: in a prison cell. Perhaps its not too late for him to make a deal with the attorney general that will put an end to his political life but extricate him and his wife from imprisonment.

On Dec. 2, Roni Alsheikhs last day as police commissioner, the police submitted its summation on Case 4000, recommending that Netanyahu and his wife be indicted for bribery and shaking up Israels political and legal system. This is the third recommendation against Netanyahu (similar recommendations were made public on Cases 1000 and 2000 as well), but the current dossier is the strongest of them all. The Case 4000 recommendation is backed by solid evidence including tapes, text messages and includes suspicion of attempting to disrupt legal proceedings. It is also the first recommendation that connects the prime ministers wife to a bribery offense, which is much more serious than her misdemeanor indictment of several months ago. The Hanukkah festival has only started and the Netanyahus find themselves trapped in their harshest circumstances yet.

Outwardly, Netanyahu continues to claim, There will be nothing because there is nothing. But on Nov. 29, he enlarged his already extensive battery of lawyers for the third time. The police recommendations include a chapter on attempts to tamper with evidence in which Nir Hefetz is involved. Hefetz had been a close associate of the Netanyahus and their personal spokesman. The police allegedly have evidence that directly connects Netanyahu to bribery from former billionaire Shaul Elovitch. Elovitch ran the popular Walla! website, but needed regulatory assistance worth billions of dollars from the communications minister.

The communications minister at the time was Netanyahu himself, all according to plan. Now it is already clear that Netanyahus incurable obsession for absolute control of the Israeli media is what instigated the current wave of investigations and recommendations that threaten to destroy his career. Not only did he take the media portfolio for himself, but he also made all of his coalition partners sign a clause that gave him the exclusive right to make final decisions on all media issues. His partners  ministers Moshe Kahlon, Naftali Bennett, Aryeh Deri and Yaakov Litzman  all signed on the dotted line. They were more interested in government portfolios, budgets, stimulus money, the cabinet and public resources. They left the media to Netanyahu; it was his shtick. They didnt know at that stage that the media playground would become the prime ministers political grave. In a sense, they are party to the crime.

Currently, there are three possibilities for the future: The first is Netanyahus dream scenario, in which Mandelblit continues to deliberate, lengthens the procedure, adds more prosecutors to the Netanyahu dossier staff and ultimately decide to close the cases without an indictment. Under such circumstances, Netanyahu would again emerge a great victor. He could claim, as he did after another investigation against him was closed in 2000, that he suffered ongoing persecution, even a coup attempt. It could turn him into Israels version of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The sky would be the limit. But the odds that things will go this way are low: perhaps 10%, maximum15%.

The second possibility is Netanyahus nightmare: The attorney general speeds up the proceedings and announces an indictment against the prime minister on charges of bribery, at least with regard to one dossier (presumably Case 4000), and other minor indictments (fraud and breach of trust) on additional files (probably Case 1000). Netanyahu would have little chance of continuing to serve as prime minister in the course of a bribery trial. True, there is no specific Israeli law that addresses this situation but it has never happened before in the history of the State of Israel and the High Court of Justice will never allow it. Of course, that doesnt mean that Netanyahu wouldnt try his hardest to make it happen.

This second scenario has probably the highest chances. There are no legal experts in Israel who truly think that the stockpile of charges against Netanyahu could be dismissed without an indictment. The vast majority of experts hold that Case 4000 constitutes a clear case of bribery. Mandelblit will face sharp criticism if his decision runs counter to the spirit of the police recommendations, which are also supported by the attorney Mandelblits office assigned to accompany the investigators. Mandelblit conducted the investigation from up close, authorized each action taken and is aware of all the materials. At the moment, this situation seems to be a 50% likelihood.

The third possibility is a middle-of-the-road option: Mandelblit submits a thin indictment against Netanyahu that does not include bribery (a heavy crime in Israel that would prevent the person from holding elected office, at least for some years). Such a situation would be the most dangerous for the Israeli public, because it would allow Netanyahu to conduct a stubborn, house-to-house rearguard fight while continuing to incite against the police. He might even find other entities to attack later on. Netanyahu is still a very popular prime minister with a solid standing in the polls and a right-wing electorate that believes his version of the events: According to Netanyahu, the charges against him are an illegitimate attempt to overthrow the government. Netanyahus followers will stick with their leader through hell or high water. Unfortunately, it will probably be hell.

Often in Israel, the scenario that plays out is one that no one could have predicted. One way or the other, this saga has crossed an additional milestone, a significant breakthrough. Now everything rests on the shoulders of Mandelblit, who was once Netanyahus cabinet secretary. And as far as Mandelblit is concerned, the nightmare scenario has already arrived.A Baldwin County business must pay more than $134,000 in back wages to 22 employees, following a U.S. Department of Labor investigation.

Labors Wage and Hour Division said it determined that Paradise Granite LLC of Elberta, a countertop installation company, paid straight time rates to hourly employees, rather than paying time-and-one-half for overtime when those employees worked more than 40 hours in a workweek.

According to a news release, the company will pay $134,097 in back wages and liquidated damages to 22 employees after investigators determined it violated overtime and recordkeeping provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. The department also assessed the company a civil penalty of $8,097.

The investigation found the employer paid other workers flat salaries, without regard to the number of hours they had worked. This practice created overtime violations when those employees worked more than 40 hours in a workweek but were not paid overtime. Paradise Granite also failed to record the number of hours worked by some employees. A previous investigation of another related business owned by this same employer also disclosed overtime violations, the Labor Department announced.

Employers who fail to comply with federal labor laws and short their workers pay gain an unfair advantage over employers who play by the rules, Wage and Hour Division District Director Kenneth Stripling said.Pamela Cook is Coca-Cola Uniteds new director of multicultural marketing and community affairs for the central region.

A media and promotions manager for Coca-Cola United since 2014, Cook will be responsible for multicultural marketing and community relations initiatives throughout the companys central region, which includes Alabama, the Florida panhandle, the Tennessee Valley and parts of southwest Georgia. Cook will also develop and strengthen partnerships with historically black colleges and universities.

A native of Huntsville, Cook previously worked for Cox Radio and Cumulus Media.

Central Region Vice President Bo Taylor said Cook brings a love of community to the job, as evidenced by her record of volunteering.

Pams vast marketing expertise, strong interpersonal skills, and deep relationships throughout the community will help Coca-Cola United continue to build meaningful partnerships with multicultural consumers and customers throughout our central region, Taylor said.

Active in the Birmingham community, Cook serves on the board of the United Negro College Fund Leadership Council, Workshops Inc. as well as the LifeSkillz Foundation.A Houston priest originally from Birmingham will officiate the funeral Thursday for former President George H.W. Bush.

The Rev. Russell J. Levenson Jr., a close friend of the Bush family and the rector at St. Martins Episcopal Church in Houston, was present when Bush died. There will be a service on Wednesday at Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., and another Thursday at St. Martins Episcopal Church in Houston. Bushs son, former President George W. Bush, will give the eulogy Wednesday during the state funeral at the National Cathedral. Levenson will give the homily. The presidents body will then be transported back to Houston for the service at St. Martins, where Levenson will be the main speaker.

He left this life for the next, and it is the way all of us would want to leave this life: surrounded by the ones you love, completely at peace, and ready for what follows, Levenson said in a TV interview. Bush died Friday. He was 94.

Levenson graduated from Mountain Brook High School in 1980, earned his bachelors degree in 1984 from Birmingham-Southern College and a doctor of ministry degree in 1997 from Beeson Divinity School. He was associate rector at St. Lukes Episcopal Church in Mountain Brook from 1993 to 1997.

Levenson has been the rector at St. Martin's, the nation's largest Episcopal church, since 2007.

Levenson told NPR that George and Barbara, who have been members of St. Martins for more than 50 years, called him to welcome him when he became the rector at St. Martins, and sent hand-written letters to his parents and to his wifes parents.

They personally would be looking after us, making sure we felt welcomed, and we certainly were, and they were a big part of that, Levenson said.

He was a very committed Episcopalian. We live our faith both in our words and our actions. This is not a man who wore his faith on his sleeve. But he was a man who very committed to his church, to God, to the Christian faith. He was a man who was a friend to people of every faith, that was very obvious to everyone.

Levenson has done the eulogy at other high-profile funerals, including that of Barbara Bush earlier this year and astronaut Gene Cernan, the last person to walk on the moon, in 2017.

When Levenson arrived at St. Martins, he took over from the Bushes previous pastor, who also had Birmingham connections.

The Rev. Laurence Gipson was dean of Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham from 1982-1994 before taking over as rector of St. Martins from 1994 to 2007.

The former president took an active role in every aspect of church life, Levenson said.

He was an usher; he served coffee on Sunday morning, Levenson said.

On Bring a Friend to Church Sunday, he brought Margaret Thatcher as his friend.

Bush often took part in interfaith events that the church was involved in, Levenson said.

When we had outreach initiatives for the church they were always behind that, he said.

His avenue to faith was the Christian Church and Jesus Christ, Levenson said. We prayed together very often, we talked about spiritual matters.

Bushs faith was marked by humility, he said.

It was a simple faith, Levenson said. He didnt have to work at it. It wasnt a complicated stretch for him. His family was brought up in the bosom of Christian faith. It was something he accepted and embraced. Its something that he lived. Its something he didnt have to talk about it, he lived it.

Levenson will remember the Bushes not just as parishioners, but friends, he said.

Both Barbara and the president have been very special people in the life of my wife, in my life and the life of our children, Levenson said. Were not only bidding farewell to somebody the world loved, but somebody who was very close and very loving to my family.A state inmate was stabbed to death at William C. Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore, and a second inmate is critical and two others hurt following fights inside the lockup Sunday night.

Alabama Department of Corrections officials said Vaquerro Kinjuan Armstrong, 29, was found about 6:15 p.m. in a housing area with multiple stab wounds received in an altercation with another inmate. Armstrong was taken to the facilitys infirmary for emergency treatment but died from his injuries at around 6:30 p.m.

ADOC spokesman Bob Horton said about 9:30 p.m., correctional staff reported a second incident in a different housing area where a fight broke out among several inmates. Two inmates who were involved in the fight were treated at the facilitys infirmary for non-threatening injuries. A third inmate received multiple stabs wounds and was airlifted to an area hospital where his condition is listed as critical. The inmates name is not being released due to security reasons.

ADOC officials sent investigators and a Correctional Emergency Response Team (CERT) to Holman to assist prison officials with their response to the incidents. The prison is currently locked down while the ADOC conducts its investigation. The prison and all housing areas are secure with no additional incidents reported.

Armstrong was serving a 22-year sentence on a 2009 first-degree robbery conviction in Talladega County. The ADOC has identified an inmate suspect in his death but is not releasing the persons name at this time. The circumstances that led to the fatal stabbing and follow-on incident remain under investigation.The $20 million renovation and rebranding of the University of Alabama at Birminghams flagship hotel is complete, Hilton Hotels & Resorts announced on Monday.

The hotel was converted from a DoubleTree by Hilton property to a Hilton Hotels & Resorts hotel.

The Lab Bar and Kitchen, a new Southern-inspired, locally sourced bar and kitchen is open in the lower lobby of the hotel. The Lab Market Cafe, a quick-service restaurant, is scheduled to open in January.

The UAB Educational Foundation purchased the on-campus hotel for $6.7 million in late 2016. UAB already owned the land where the hotel is located at University Boulevard and 20th Street South.

Renovations on the hotel began in March. Upgrades to the guest rooms, public areas and restaurants were part of the renovations.

The transformation has been extraordinary, said Lisa Castagna, general manager, Hilton Birmingham at UAB. Its been a strategic, collaborative effort between Hilton and UAB to create this flagship Hilton property in the heart of the college campus.

 From the lighting fixtures above to the flooring belowand everything in between, this renovation has been marked by acute attention to detail, she continued. Our associates are proud to welcome new and returning guests to the new Hilton hotel. We have also added two distinctive restaurants to match the hospitality and level of service associated with the Hilton brand. The restaurants provide compellingand deliciousreasons for locals to visit, as well.

Here are a few highlights of the renovations:

Upgraded Common Areas

The hotels lobby features new, original artwork, updated seating, tables, lighting and a sundries shop. A new Connectivity Station was also added, consisting of convenient, complimentary workstations equipped with Wi-Fi enabled computers, printers and ergonomic seating. Guest corridors and public areas were also upgraded with new wall coverings, detailed crown molding and refinished guest room entry doors.

New Guest Rooms

The renovation of the guest rooms includes subtle details that pay homage to the history of Birmingham and UAB while enjoying the latest in technology and comfort. Custom stone desks with USB charging ports were added to the work areas in the guest rooms. Room feature LED lighting. Custom guest room carpets and public areas carpets finish out the upscale look and feel.

Completed in phases throughout 2018, the renovation included upgrading the hotel suites with more luxurious and contemporary furnishing and enhancing the executive room categories, according to Hilton. Each of the 295 modern guest rooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows, king or two queen-sized beds, mini-refrigerators and safes.

The hotels top floor features guest rooms with full balconies and views of Birminghams downtown skyline and UAB campus. Corner king rooms have expanded working and living spaces with sweeping views of downtown.

Executive Lounge

The Executive Lounge on the lobby level of the hotel has also been refurbished with floor to ceiling windows that offer an expansive view of the redesigned pool terrace and cityscape.

New Dining

Two dining options have been introduced with the hotels conversion.

The Lab Bar and Kitchen, now open on the hotels ground floor, is a Southern-inspired, locally sourced bar and kitchen that complements Birminghams thriving culinary scenes. Accessed via an entrance at the corner of University and 20th Street South, as well as directly through the hotel, The Lab Bar and Kitchen is purpose-built to serve the community and UABs campus as well as hotel guests.

At the center of the action is a 27-seat rectangular bar that serves a variety of local craft beers, specialty cocktails and a full menu. The space features large fire pits and open patio seating.

Helmed by Chef Matthew Comarato, the restaurant showcases its Southern roots through locally sourced ingredients prepared with a modern twist.

We are excited to welcome the community to into The Lab, Comarato said. We aim to make a unique contribution to Birminghams culinary scene, particularly here near Five Points. Im eager to complement the citys rich cultural, food and beverage scene while maintaining a focus on Alabama ingredients and sources. Weve worked to create a menu and an experience that will establish The Lab among Birminghams most memorable bars and eateries.

The second restaurant is a quick-serve cafe located next door to the Bar. The Lab Market Cafe, scheduled to open in January 2019, serves customers on the go, with seasonal, locally-sourced pastries and prepared foods. Made to order meals, gourmet salads and sandwiches will also be available, along with Hilton breakfast service and offerings at Blaze Coffee Bar.

Fresh Connection

The Fresh Connection concept is a new takeout and delivery service that was created to cater to hotel guests, who are increasingly looking for greater convenience. Guests who opt for in-room delivery will be greeted by a Fresh Connection runner, who will deliver their order to their door, take-out style. Guests can order favorites from the menu and savor some of the best flavors of Birmingham. Those who want to save the delivery fee and gratuity can opt for pickup in the Lab Market Cafe.

Transformed Conference Facilities

A grand spiral staircase leads from the hotel lobby to two ballrooms and meeting rooms of a variety of sizes. Hilton Birmingham at UAB boasts 17,000 square feet of high-tech meeting and event space. With a full in-house events team including event management, sales and in-house audio-visual services, by PSAV, the hotel is well equipped to host galas, weddings, conferences, reunions and events of all sizes.

We took the opportunity with the transformation to honor some notable UAB graduates who made significant achievements and broke barriers, Castagna said. The ballrooms and a large meeting space are named for early female and African American graduates of the medical program.

Hamilton Ballroom:

 In 1946, Virginia Dare Hamilton was the only female in the Medical College of Alabama (precursor to the UAB School of Medicine) and became the first woman to receive the MD degree from the program.

 In July 1968, Dr. Herschell Lee Hamilton received a clinical appointment in the Department of Surgery and became the first African American board-certified general surgeon at University Hospital.

Skipwith Ballroom:

 In March 1969, Delois Skipwith became the first African American faculty member in the School of Nursing and the first tenure-track African American faculty member at UAB.

Montgomery Room:

 In September 1923, Jimmie Ethel Montgomery entered the medical school in Tuscaloosa as the school's first full-time female student. In May 1925, she received a B.S. degree in Medicine from The University of Alabama, becoming the first female to graduate from the medical school.

The renovation features a completely redesigned guest room and public area experience, said Jodie Mote, UAB Education Foundation. When our visitors choose to stay with us, be it for business or pleasure, with their partner or their family, we want them to be inspired by their surroundings while enjoying all the services the hotel has to offer."A Birmingham-based public accounting firm is relocating from downtown to Cahaba Heights in Vestavia Hills.

Haynes Downard LLP, which was founded in 1995, said its relocating from Second Avenue North to a new office at 3161 Cahaba Heights Road, Suite 203 to be closer to its clients, most of whom live in Homewood, Vestavia Hills and Mountain Brook.

The new office is expected to be open by late December.

We are proud of our long history serving clients in and around Birmingham, and we are eager to begin this next chapter in Cahaba Heights, Lewis Jones, managing partner of Haynes Downard said in a statement. At Haynes Downard, our goal is to help individuals, companies and organizations reach their full potential through a comprehensive mix of accounting and business services. Their success is our success, and we are honored to serve such wonderful clients year after year.

B&B Quality Construction Inc. is building out the 4,500 square feet office space. The space will feature the interior design work of LCS Designs.

Haynes Downard has team of 20 certified public accountants, professionals and administrative staff. The firm also has a location in Jasper.

The firm offers services in the areas of auditing, accounting, tax, regulatory compliance, management consulting and litigation support services. The firm serves manufacturers, retailers, physicians, law firms, private foundations, non-profits and more. Haynes Downard LLP is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Alabama Society of Certified Public Accountants.Alabama drivers may soon have to put their cell phones down in the car.

Sen. Jim McClendon, R-Springville, told ABC 33/40 he plans to introduce a hands-free law that would make it illegal to hold your phone while driving. The law is similar to one passed in Georgia earlier this year.

The Georgia law makes it illegal for drivers to have a phone in their hand or use any part of their body to support the device. Drivers are allowed to make or receive calls but only if they use a speakerphone, earpiece or wireless headphones or if the phone is connected to the vehicle or an electronic watch.

Drivers cannot write, read or send text messages, emails or social media content, according to the Georgia law. Voice text, as well as GPS navigation devices, are allowed.

Violators face a $50 fine for first conviction; $100 for second; and $150 for third and subsequent convictions.

Georgia is the 16th state in the country to enact a hands-free driving law, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. No states ban all cell phone user for drivers, but 38  including Alabama  ban use of the devices by teen drivers. Alabama is one of 47 states with a ban on text messaging by drivers, but doesnt limit phone usage in general.

The penalty in Alabama for text messaging while operating a vehicle is $25 for first violation; $50 for second violation; and $75 for third or subsequent violation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 3,450 people were killed and 391,000 injured in 2016 due to distracted driving, including texting and using a cell phone.Lunaticoutpost.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program , anaffiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.Amazon, the Amazon logo, MYHABIT, and the MYHABIT logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.Don't be a pest to the forum.No profanity in thread-titles or usernamesNo excessive profanity in postsNo Racism, Antisemitism + HateNo calls for violence against anyone..This website exists for fun and discussion only. The reader is responsible for discerning the validity, factuality or implications of information posted here, be it fictional or based on real events. The content of posts on this site, including but not limited to links to other web sites, are the expressed opinion of the original poster and are in no way representative of or endorsed by the owners or administration of this website. The posts on this website are the opinion of the specific author and are not statements of advice, opinion, or factual information on behalf of the owner or administration of LunaticOutPost.Com. The owners or administration of this website can't be hold responsible for content hosted on sites that posters link to in; including, but not limited to, posts, signatures, private messages and such. This site may contain content not suitable for minors and if you feel you might be offended by such content, you should log off immediately.This site may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. Users may make such material available in an effort to advance awareness and understanding of issues relating to civil rights, economics, individual rights, international affairs, liberty, science & technology, etc. We believe this constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material. The material on this site is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the included information for research and educational purposes.In accordance with industry accepted best practices we ask that users limit their copy / paste of copyrighted material to the relevant portions of the article you wish to discuss (no more than 50% of the source material) provide a link back to the original articleIf you are a legal copyright holder or a designated agent for such and you believe a post on this website falls outside the boundaries of "Fair Use" and legitimately infringes on yours or your clients copyright please contact [email protected] This website is owned by :Marco ZwaneveldDrijfriemstraat 522516 XR The HagueNetherlands.I will not rent, sell, share or otherwise disclose your personal information to any third party.We might contact you from time to time regarding your purchases or the services (like forums and announcement lists) you have subscribed to.Some of the 3rd party advertisers on lunaticoutpost.com may use cookiesto track peformance and/or to serve relevant ads.If you wish to read more and/or opt out of such cookies, please visit: http://www.networkadvertising.org/choices/Frank Martin, a veteran transportation executive and former general manager of the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority, will likely become the beleaguered agencys next interim executive director.

Martin was interviewed by the BJCTAs board of directors at a special called Committee of the Whole Meeting on Monday morning. If he and board chair Ted Smith are able to come to a financial agreement, a resolution to retain Martin as a consultant will likely be on the agenda for the regular board meeting on Wednesday.

Martin has 40 years experience in managing and directing transportation projects focusing on multidisciplinary and complex planning, administration, and operations and maintenance, according to his bio.

Hes well respected in the industry, says Rhona Briggins, vice president of transit services for Jacobs. He knows transit.

Martin would replace Christopher Ruffin, who resigned from the position on Friday to return to his former role as director of operations. Ruffin, 44, joined the BJCTA as a bus driver in 2010 and rose through the ranks until being elevated to interim executive director in April when Barbara Murdock was suspended (and later fired) for allegedly using the agency credit card for personal expenses.

Between May 1981 and April 1984, Martin was general manager for the BJCTA, according to his resume, after serving as assistant general manager from July 1980 to May 1981.

During that period, there was a three-month shutdown of the system due to funding issues. Working with various state and local entities, and with then-mayor Richard Arrington, Martin was able to get the system running again. We were able to restore public confidence in transit," he told the board.

Subsequent to working in Birmingham, according to his resume, he held transportation leadership roles at New Orleans Regional Transit (general manager), Miami-Dade (County) Transit (assistant/deputy director of rail services), Santa Clara Valley (CA) Transportation Authority (Chief Operating Officer) and the Atkins North Americas Transportation Group Company, where he served as senior vice president, transportation and in other capacities.

My career has spanned operations initially, as well as administration. Martin said. Ive mentored several young bright energetic staffs whove gone on to do great things.

Martin said he would be available to consult with the board for up to six months and could start in less than two weeks.

I understand the sense of urgency, he said.

Director Martin Weinberg asked Martin is sense of the perception of BJCTA nationwide.

Not very good, quite frankly," he said. "But its not been the last couple of years. Its been a couple of decades. There have been too many heads of the organization, for whatever reasons, Nationally, [the reputations] not very good., and that is something that really needs to be worked on.

I spent three years nine months great years here," Martin continued. Given right person, theyll be impressed with whats going on here [in Birmingham]. Youll have to make sure theres a collective energy to work with that person, whomever he or she may be. Youve got some work to do, in terms of external perception."

Director Don Harwell asked Martin if hes willing to tell micro-managing" board members, Youre not my boss.

No question, he responded. I come to decision having been on both sides, on operating side and serving on a board. I think its very important o have a distinction between policy and operations. no matter who you bring in they cannot to their job if constantly being challenged ... Even during interim phase....If you want me to be that person, Im willing. But Im in charge. I will not hesitate to say to board members who step out of line, 'Let me handle this, Ill report back to you about he action that should be taken.

There has to be an element of trust between board and chief executive officer.

If retained by the board on Wednesday, Martin said one of his first calls would be to the regional representative of the Federal Transportation Association (FTA) to ascertain the status of its relationship with the BJCTA.

Consultant Frank Martin address BJCTA board of directos

In November, the agency published an request for proposal (RFP) to retain a firm to guide its search for permanent executive director.

In September 2016, Martin was inducted into the American Public Transportation Association Hall of Fame, for which he has also served on the board of directors.

Martin currently lives in Clermont, FL, and is an independent consultant.

Ruffin was on vacation with his wife and daughter when he learned he had been named to the interim post. Since then, he intentionally and willfully guided an embattled organization crippled by senior executive resignations, internal strife and a divided board of directors.

Four senior staffers resigned during his tenure, including the finance director, interim director of human resources, head of maintenance and safety director. Last month, Ruffin fired the new finance director and chief of staff.

"Addressing the crisis at hand has been a struggle for me," he said during the turbulent summer months. "I didn't know I would go through all the things I went through. I've been baptized. I've made mistakes. I'm not perfect.

After resigning last week, Ruffin said, I am not a politician. When I came to MAX on October 22, 2010, I came to drive the bus. I just helped. Different people asked me to help. I just tried to answer my civic duty. But you cant operate if you dont have the support and I dont have the support. But I appreciated the opportunity.

"I gave it my best shot.Condominiums are coming to Birminghams Parkside District.

A team, led by Kathy Okrongley of Southpace Properties, is redeveloping a former macaroni factory at 1329 4th Avenue South into a three-story commercial and residential condo project.

The building is within three blocks of Regions Field, Railroad Park, Childrens of Alabama and the University of Alabama at Birmingham campus.

We are excited about this project and the opportunity to contribute to the city of Birminghams revitalization, Okrongley said.

She said the project is called Macaroni Lofts due to its history dating back to 1902 as a macaroni factory.

The development will include 6,000 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor and 20 residential loft condominiums for sale on the upper two floors. The condos will be listed for sale starting at $115,000 for a studio unit and higher for the one-and-two-bedroom units.

Okrongley said the pricing will make the condos affordable for young professionals and graduate students attending UAB. She said these units are one of the few options to buy rather than rent condos in the Parkside District.

The development group, Macaroni Lofts LLC, purchased the property in mid-November, with Shepard Ager of Southpace Properties assisting the purchasers as broker in the transaction.

Construction is expected to start in the spring and be complete by late 2019 or early 2020.

In November, Birmingham-based Corporate Realty and Texas-based student housing developer Parallel Company announced plans for apartments in the Parkside District across the street from Railroad Park.

The seven-story apartment complex is being designed for UAB students and units will be rented by the room.

The Stacy Williams Co. Building, former syrup manufacturing and warehouse facility, at the corner of 14th Street and 1st Avenue South will be demolished to make way for the complex.

Construction has started on the third and largest building in the 20 Midtown development. The third building compasses an entire block bordered by 20th Street South and Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard and Third Avenue South and Second Avenue South.

Plans call for 274 apartments, from studios to three-bedroom units, and at least 38,800 square feet of retail space on the ground floor, said developer Dick Schmalz.Federal agencies will close Wednesday in honor of the late President George H.W. Bush.

Bush died Friday at age 94. Funeral services for the 41st president are planned for throughout this week. On Wednesday, Bush will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda starting Monday and extending through Wednesday. The final day, Dec. 5, has been declared a national day of mourning for Bush, according to an executive order from President Donald Trump.

The national day of mourning means federal offices and agencies will be closed Wednesday. Some employees involved in national security, defense or select other jobs may still have to report for work. The U.S. Post Office will also be closed and there will be no mail delivery on that day.

The closures, the order noted, represents a mark of respect for George Herbert Walker Bush, the forty-first President of the United States."

I call on the American people to assemble on that day in their respective places of worship, there to pay homage to the memory of President George H.W. Bush. I invite the people of the world who share our grief to join us in this solemn observance, Trump said.

The New York Stock Exchange will also close Wednesday. It will observe a moment of silence on Monday in honor of the late president.

Trump ordered the American flag to be lowered to half-staff on all public buildings, military bases and overseas embassies for a period of 30 days.

President Trump and first lady Melania Trump will attend Bushs funeral service planned for the Washington National Cathedral.The Supreme Court this week takes up the case of a small-time Alabama felon, Terance Gamble, who complains that his convictions by state and federal prosecutors for the same gun possession crime violate constitutional protections against double jeopardy.

But likely to be watching the proceedings closely will be those concerned about a big-time felon, Republican consultant and former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, who was prosecuted by Special Counsel Robert Mueller for tax fraud.

With President Donald Trump keeping alive prospects that he might pardon Manafort, Gamble v. United States might be redubbed Manafort v. Mueller, joked Thomas Goldstein, an attorney who regularly argues before the Supreme Court.

The outcome in the case could affect nascent plans by states to prosecute Manafort under their own tax evasion laws - New York, in particular, has expressed interest - should Trump pardon Manafort on his federal convictions.

The Double Jeopardy Clause of the Constitution's 5th Amendment prohibits more than one prosecution or punishment for the same offense. But the Supreme Court since the 1850s has made an exception, allowing successive prosecutions and punishments if one is brought by state prosecutors and the other by the federal government. (One early case from that time involved counterfeiting; another was prosecution of someone harboring a fugitive slave.)

In Gamble, the court is reconsidering these precedents. Almost none of the briefs filed in the case speculate on how a presidential pardon of a federal conviction would affect prosecutors at the state level should the separate sovereigns doctrine be renounced.

But the issue is being debated loudly online. While Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to the Supreme Court was pending, a theory emerged in some circles that the Trump administration was in a hurry to get him on the Supreme Court in time to have him participate in the case.

The reality of Gamble v. United States is more complicated than that. For one, the court accepted the case before Kavanaugh's nomination. And it is unclear how the new justice would vote on the issue or whether he is pivotal to the outcome.

For another, Trump's Justice Department urged the Supreme Court not to take the case. It says the status quo, allowing state and federal prosecutions, should remain in place.

That hasn't stopped the speculation involving Manafort, who was convicted over the summer in Virginia of bank and tax fraud and in September pleaded guilty in the District to two other felonies as part of an agreement to cooperate with Mueller's investigation into the Trump campaign's alleged contacts with Russian operatives. On Monday, the special counsel's office said Manafort had breached his Washington, D.C., plea agreement by lying to investigators.

Speaking to reporters Thursday, Trump reiterated that he had not offered a pardon to Manafort but that he wasn't taking it off the table. "I have never seen anybody treated so poorly," he said of his former campaign chairman.

A spokesman for Manafort declined to comment for this article.

The real motivation for the court to reconsider the separate sovereigns doctrine came from liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who expressed the desire in an opinion two years ago. Her ally in that call? Conservative Justice Clarence Thomas.

"The double jeopardy proscription is intended to shield individuals from the harassment of multiple prosecutions for the same misconduct," Ginsburg wrote in 2016. "Current 'separate sovereigns' doctrine hardly serves that objective."

As the Ginsburg-Thomas alliance shows, concern about the doctrine is shared across the ideological divide.

"You see conservatives and liberals coming together on this issue," said Brianne Gorod, chief counsel at the liberal Constitutional Accountability Center, who filed an amicus brief on Gamble's behalf.

Their agreement reflects "a shared concern among many progressives and conservatives that there are profound problems in our criminal justice system - one manifestation of which is people being sentenced to jail time twice for the same offense, notwithstanding a constitutional provision designed to prevent exactly that," Gorod said.

Because the states and federal government are separate sovereigns, the court has reasoned in the past, each has an interest in prosecuting someone for violating its laws, even for the exact same conduct.

The court recently signaled how seriously it is taking the question of overturning its precedent: It expanded the time allotted for oral argument. Besides hearing from Gamble's lawyer, the court will hear separately from the Justice Department and the state of Texas, which heads a group of 36 states objecting to any change in the law.

Sherrilyn Ifill, president of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, said at a preview of the Supreme Court term this fall that the case raises conflicting issues. On the one hand, successive prosecutions of the same offense seem unfair.

But on the other, it has been a handy tool for enforcing civil rights from the 1960s to more recent times. For instance, federal prosecutors brought charges against the Los Angeles police officers who beat motorist Rodney King in California after state trials ended in acquittals.

"The federal government possesses the solemn obligation to vigorously enforce the nation's civil rights laws, including the relevant federal criminal civil rights laws," says a brief filed by the Thurgood Marshall Civil Rights Center at the Howard University School of Law. "Consequently, any modification or abolition of the dual sovereignty doctrine will necessarily impact the future direction of federal criminal civil rights enforcement."

The federal government and the states argue that they have their own laws to uphold and that they do not abuse the right.

"Each state has a strong interest in its sovereign power to prosecute violations of its laws regardless of the prosecutorial decisions of other sovereigns, whether the federal government or other states," says a brief filed by Texas and 35 other states.

At the same time, more than 20 states have their own restrictions on prosecuting crimes for which an individual has already been prosecuted, as does the Department of Justice.

In its brief, the department says it is better for state and local prosecutors to decide between themselves who should be responsible for a case. There is a federal policy saying federal officials should step in after a state prosecution only where there is a significant national interest.

But Gamble's lawyers say his case proves those protections don't mean much; their client's case held no special significance. "If the government believes that a 'substantial federal interest' is present in a [routine] gun possession case, when will the policy ever bar re-prosecution?" said lawyer Louis Chaiten, who represents Gamble.

The Justice brief notes the power of the president to issue pardons affects only federal convictions. But would a ruling for Gamble make it impossible for states to bring charges against someone who received a pardon?

Not necessarily, said Gorod, as the specific elements of a state and federal case may be different.

As an initial matter, a pardon on federal charges would, if anything, only block state prosecutions for the same offense, she said. But the Supreme Court has explained in a previous case that two offenses are not the same if each requires proof of a fact that the other does not.A man was found dead at the scene of a house fire and police standoff in Tuscumbia today, authorities said.

Colbert County Coroner Justin Gasque told AL.com he took the mans body for autopsy at the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences. The coroner said he couldnt release the mans name Monday afternoon. He said the cause and manner of death havent yet been determined.

Police were at the home on Riverview Drive to serve an arrest warrant Monday morning when the man barricaded himself inside, authorities told AL.com news partner WHNT News-19. About an hour after the standoff began, the house caught fire, the TV station reported.

Tuscumbia police Chief Tony Logan didnt return a call or text message from AL.com seeking comment Monday afternoon.

Along with Tuscumbia police, Colbert County and state authorities were on the scene.

Alabama State Fire Marshal Scott Pilgreen said he couldnt comment on details about the fire, including what might have caused it.

We are there assisting the local officials, Pilgreen said. Its a joint effort with the local authorities.

Further details werent immediately available.Authorities are asking for the publics help identifying a man who robbed a west Birmingham pharmacy Monday morning.

The holdup happened about 9:10 a.m. at CVS Pharmacy on Tuscaloosa Avenue. Sgt. Johnny Williams said West Precinct officers were dispatched to the store and learned the suspect had presented a note demanding various items.

He left the business with an undetermined amount of drugs.

Anyone with information on the suspect is asked to call Birmingham police robbery detectives at 205-254-1753 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. Crime Stoppers offers a reward for tips that lead to an arrest.A suspect in the Thanksgiving night shooting of an 18-year-old at the Riverchase Galleria Mall in Hoover was returned to Jefferson County Monday afternoon.

Jefferson County sheriffs deputies delivered Erron Martez Dequan Brown, 20, to the county jail just before 1:15 p.m.. He is charged with attempted murder in the shooting of Brian Wilson, the friend of Emantic EJ Bradford Jr., 21, who was shot and killed by police after Wilson was shot. He looked at media awaiting his arrival outside the jail but declined to comment.

Browns name quickly surfaced as a suspect in the mall shooting. He was taken into custody by U.S. Marshals on Thursday.

The U.S. Marshals Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force in Georgia was assisted by Alabamas Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency about 9:30 a.m. that day on Highwind Way in South Fulton.

Authorities said Brown was staying at a relatives house when he was arrested. On Friday, in a Georgia courtroom, he waived extradition to Alabama. Authorities have said more charges could be filed against Brown.

District Attorney Danny Carr said while charges have been brought against Brown, the state investigation is not complete and remains ongoing. "We are confident ALEA is working to complete the investigation in a timely manner,'' Carr said previously. However, in light of the fact that so many people were present in the mall that evening, witness interviews are still ongoing.

Court records show Brown previously was arrested in Madison County on May 18, 2017 on a first-degree robbery charge, but that charge was dismissed. Efforts to reach his attorney for comment werent immediately successful.

The shooting happened late Thanksgiving night at the Riverchase Galleria in Hoover. Police said it began when two men got into a physical altercation and one of the men - now identified as Brown - pulled out a handgun and shot the other man - Wilson. Wilson was taken to a nearby hospital where he remains in serious condition. A 12-year-old bystander, Molly Davis, was also shot and taken to Childrens Hospital by a Hoover Fire Department rescue squad. She has since been released. Authorities have not said who fired the shots that injured Molly.

Two officers who were providing security at the mall heard the gunfire and approached the area. They spotted a suspect brandishing a gun. The man, Emantic EJ Bradford Jr., 21, died at the scene after being shot by Hoover officer.

Erron Brown is shown being led into the Jefferson County Jail on Dec. 3. 2018.

Hoover police initially portrayed Bradford as the mall gunman and said officers acted heroically to take out the threat within seconds of shots being fired in the crowded mall. They later retracted the statement, and said while Bradford was seen with a handgun, evidence indicates he was not the person who shot the 18-year-old and 12-year-old bystander.

The death of Bradford has sparked multiple protests in Hoover. Those protests have been held at the mall, Hoover City Hall, outside the home of the mayor and Sunday night outside the AMC Patton Creek movie theater in Hoover. The activists are demanding that police release body cam footage and mall surveillance video of the shooting and said Sunday night they fully expected the video to be released by noon today.

However, Hoover city officials on Monday said they will not release any information  including any video  at the request of state investigators.

Hoover officials are respecting the requests of ALEA to not release any information at the risk of compromising the justice process for everyone involved, Derzis said in a statement released this morning.

Derzis said Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Secretary Hal Taylor communicated with the chief and the mayor over the weekend, reiterating ALEAs stance on the premature release of any critical information regarding the investigation. Its important, Taylor told them, that the integrity of the investigation be maintained.

He has specifically asked that we do not release any potential evidence as it may not only jeopardize the integrity of the case, but also complicate or delay their efforts, Derzis said.

Also Monday, Bradford family attorney Ben Crump said at a news conference Monday that Bradford was shot three times from behind while he was running away. Rev. Jesse Jackson, the national civil rights activist who also spoke at Bradfords funeral, was present at the press conference with Crump and Birmingham-based attorneys Rodney Barganier and Frankie Lee.

The private autopsy was conducted by the chief forensic pathologist for the Washington D.C. area Dr. Roger Mitchell, Crump said. Mitchell met with Chief Medical Examiner of Jefferson County Dr. Gregory Davis and reviewed all death investigation photographs, along with examining the body.

According to the autopsy results provided by Crump and Baraganier, Bradford was shot three times: Once in the head, once in the neck, and once in the back. The bullets all entered the 21-year-olds body from the back, the report showed. Mitchell also noted in the report that each of the three bullets entered the body at a slightly upward angle.Attorneys for a the man killed by police at a Hoover mall on Thanksgiving night released findings of a private medical review on Monday morning at a news conference.

Emantic E.J." Bradford was fatally shot by Hoover police on Nov. 22 just before 10 p.m. Police were responding to gunfire in the Riverchase Galleria mall, where two others were injured. Ben Crump, a civil rights attorney hired by the Bradford family, said at a news conference Monday that 21-year-old Bradford was shot three times from behind while he was running away.

Rev. Jesse Jackson, the national civil rights activist who also spoke at Bradfords funeral, was present at the press conference with Crump and Birmingham-based attorneys Rodney Barganier and Frankie Lee. After an introductory prayer by Jackson, Crump revealed the findings of a private medical examination review and a illustrated version of Bradfords injuries.

The review was conducted by the chief forensic pathologist for the Washington D.C. area Dr. Roger Mitchell, Crump said. Mitchell met with Chief Medical Examiner of Jefferson County Dr. Gregory Davis and reviewed all autopsy photographs and directly observed the body.

The results of that review, as provided by Crump and Baraganier, show Bradford was shot three times: Once in the head, once in the neck, and once in the back. The bullets all entered the 21-year-olds body from the back, the report showed. Mitchell also noted in the report that each of the three bullets entered the body at a slightly upward angle.

There is a laceration of the right side of the face at the eyebrow consistent with falling face forward on the right side of the head, Crump wrote in a document provided at the news conference. The cause of death is gunshot wound of the head. The manner of death is homicide.

Hoover police initially described Bradford as the mall gunman, but later said they were wrong and Bradford was likely not the person who wounded an 18-year-old man and a 12-year-old girl. Police said Bradford was brandishing a handgun moments after the shooting, which increased the threat for officers.

Crump said last week that the family hired a pathologist to perform the independent preliminary anatomical review. The exam was performed on Nov. 30, the report states.

Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis announced Monday morning just before Crumps press conference that details of the deadly shooting, including police body camera footage or mall surveillance video, will not be released by police at this time.

The news from Hoover comes after Hoover city councilor Derrick Murphy last week called for the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to release information and footage of the Galleria incident. Murphy, along with Derzis and Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato, had said the city may release details of the shooting if ALEA did not.

Hoover officials are respecting the requests of ALEA to not release any information at the risk of compromising the justice process for everyone involved, Derzis said in a statement.

Attorney Ben Crump discusses the results of a forensic examination on Emantic "EJ" Bradford Jr., who was fatally shot by police in a shopping mall on Thanksgiving day, during a news conference in Birmingham, Ala., on Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. Crump, who represents Bradford's family, says a report shows the 21-year-old black man suffered three gunshot wounds to the back side of his body. (AP Photo/Jay Reeves)AP

Crump said in response to the statement from Hoover that he and the Bradford family were trying to believe the investigation was remaining transparent. We are trying very hard to take them at their word. But its very difficult for this father and this family after they were lied to before. And so with all the expressions of condolences and sympathy it is still very difficult, Crump said.

He urged Jefferson County District Attorney Danny Carr to, once the investigation is complete, charge the officer who fired the fatal shot.

Bradfords father and uncle also spoke, calling for justice and for the officer who shot Bradford to be charged with murder.

Hoover police responded to Crumps press conference. "We encourage Attorney Benjamin Crump and the Bradford family to submit the Preliminary Anatomical Review to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) so this new information becomes a part of the official investigation.

"We couldnt agree more with Attorney Crumps call for a thorough and complete investigation and for witnesses to come forward to assist in the search for the truth. We also agree with his call to refrain from speculation until the investigation is completed. Our sympathies are with the Bradford family as they, the community, and the City of Hoover, await ALEAs complete investigation.

To ensure the integrity of the ongoing investigation, were continuing to respect ALEAs request to not release further information. We want everyone who lives in, works in or visits Hoover to know that we are committed to the safety of our city, to healing from these tragic events and to the transparency of the ongoing investigation.

AL.com reporter Carol Robinson contributed to this report.This is an opinion column.

David Ludder, a lawyer for a coalition of environmental watchdogs and activists, wants to have a few words with the Alabama Environmental Management Commission.

You see, he and his clients asked for something, and they didnt get it.

No, not a reliable regulator of polluters and heavy industries. That would be crazy.

Rather, Ludder and others asked the AEMC for public records  emails the commissioners sent and received related to their public business.

Ostensibly, under Alabama law, citizens of this state are entitled to inspect public records and take copies upon request. There are statutory exceptions, and sometimes there can be fees involved for copies and whatnot, and I wont waste time getting into how state agencies sometimes charge dollars for the same sorts of copies that cost cents at your local office supply store.

The key thing to understand is this: Public records belong to the public.

But when Ludder and his clients asked the AEMC for those emails, the response they got back was a little light. Dozens of documents  documents Ludder could prove existed  werent there.

Luckily for them, the United States Attorneys office had better luck and we can see some of what the AEMC and its members were hiding. While investigating Balch lawyer Joel Gilbert and Drummond Co. vice president David Roberson  those guys convicted earlier this year of bribing a public official  the Justice Department obtained and put into the court record dozens of emails Ludders information request should have captured.

While he served on the AEMC, commissioner W. Scott Phillips sent at least 23 emails to Drummond Co. or the coal giants representatives regarding a Superfund site in north Birmingham.

At the same time, he received at least 27 emails from those same folks on that same subject.

Ludder submitted the public information request for those emails, among others, in July.

The response the AEMC gave back in August produced none of them.

Compounding this problem is whats also clear from the court record  Phillips was using his personal email for public business. This is a common tactic among public officials to avoid the reach of public records laws and requests like Ludders.

Theres just one problem with that strategy  it doesnt protect the documents from public records laws, or at least it shouldnt.

Under Alabama law, the content of a document is what makes it a public document, not the form and not where its kept. If a probate clerk takes a bundle of property records home and sticks them in a filing cabinet, that doesnt make them any less public records. It just makes them harder to find.

The second problem here is that theres no accountability for public officials who dont turn over public records  no matter where they are kept.

Recently, I sent a public records request to the City of Tarrant for records similar to what Ludder has asked the AEMC to produce. I got a handful back, but like Ludder, I could tell others were missing. As in Ludders request, I had proof of certain documents existence in court files. There were more than three dozen such documents I was looking for. The city produced three.

Maybe youre thinking, Somebody should make a law against that!

Well, the Alabama Legislature already did.

Under existing Alabama law, a public official commits a Class A misdemeanor whenever he or she substantially impairs the verity or availability of any governmental record or refuses to deliver up the record in his possession upon proper request of a person lawfully entitled to receive such record for examination or other purposes.

The problem here is, Ive talked to a few prosecutors and other state authorities about this snippet in the code. Not only could none of them remember it being enforced, but most of them also didnt even know this law existed and seemed surprised and confused when I told them.

Sometimes the solution to our bureaucratic breakdowns isnt further regulation or legislation.

Often its as simple as obeying rules already in place and enforcing the laws that are already on the books.

Kyle Whitmire is the state political columnist for the Alabama Media Group.

Want access to the best analysis and in-depth reporting about Alabama each week? Sign up for the weekly Reckon Report newsletter and follow Reckon on Facebook and Twitter.Originally Posted by Judy Originally Posted by

The 2013 Gang of 8 Bill originated in the Senate and passed the Senate, it was killed by House Republicans. Just pretend it's 2013 and the US House of Representatives is controlled by the Democrats. That's where we are as of January 3, 2018.As some of the key players in Yemens war meet in Sweden, is peace finally within reach?

Stockholm, Sweden  Representatives from the Yemeni government and Houthi rebels are due to meet in Sweden this week for UN-sponsored talks aimed at ending more than three years of war that have ravaged the country.

The UN has refused to reveal the exact date and venue, but the talks are expected to take place on December 5 or 6, close to the capital, Stockholm.

While there have been several international initiatives aimed at bringing the brutal war to a close, sources have told Al Jazeera that the latest round of discussions could yield major breakthroughs.

A source familiar with the talks said that the UN was seeking to introduce a set of confidence-building measures, including a ceasefire in Hodeidah and an end to the air attacks across the country by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

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The source added that the Houthis would cease all rocket and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

The talks are also expected to discuss the reopening of Sanaa international airport, large-scale prisoner swaps and the payment of salaries to civil servants in Houthi-held areas.

Why now?

The war, which has been raging since March 2015, has received considerable media attention following the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a critic of Saudi Arabias foreign policy who was brutally murdered inside the kingdoms consulate in Istanbul on October 2.

Western powers have expressed their anger over the killing and pulled their support from the Saudi-UAE alliance in an attempt to communicate their displeasure.

Germany and Norway suspended arms exports to Riyadh while the US Senate is due to consider a resolution this week to end its support for the conflict.

Under the leadership of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the alliance has launched more than 18,000 air raids on Yemen and imposed a raft of punitive economic measures aimed at undermining the Houthis grip on power.

This has exacerbated Yemens humanitarian crisis, which aid groups have decried as choking civilians.

More than three-quarters of the population, around 22 million people, need humanitarian assistance, while 11 million require urgent help in order to survive.

Who is attending?

According to the UN, the consultations will be only be attended by the main parties to the conflict  representatives from President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadis government and the Houthis.

The Special UN Envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffith, has been hoping to get both sides to agree to a framework that establishes the principles and parameters for UN-led, inclusive Yemeni negotiations to end the war, and restart a political transition.

As part of his efforts to get the warring parties around the negotiating table, Griffith arrived in Sanaa on Monday after spending the previous two weeks shuttling between the two sides.

Shortly after, 50 wounded Houthi fighters were flown on a UN chartered plane from the Yemeni capital to Oman for medical treatment.

British Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt called the evacuation a positive 1st step, adding that it was encouraging to see some of the practical steps I discussed with the Iranian, UAE and Saudi leaders on recent trips come to pass.

The fate of wounded rebels had been a stumbling block to the start of a previous round of aborted peace talks in September.

Efforts to launch peace negotiators in Switzerland failed spectacularly when the Houthis refused to turn up, saying they needed stronger security guarantees from the international community.

Previous talks also broke down in 2016, when 108 days of negotiations in Kuwait failed to yield a deal and delegates from the rebel movement were left stranded outside of Yemen for three months.

Sources in the capital told Al Jazeera that the Houthis were expected to leave Sanaa on Tuesday on a Kuwaiti flight accompanied by Kuwaits Ambassador to Yemen.

Who is not attending?

Despite the lead role the alliance is playing in the war, Saudi Arabia and the UAE will not be present in Sweden.

However, both countries and Iran, which supposedly backs the Houthis, have said they support the UNs scheme.

One powerful group expected to be left out of the talks are the southern secessionists, some of whom are represented by the Southern Transitional Council (STC).

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Financed by the UAE, the STC has been aggressively pursuing independence for southern Yemen, which was an independent country until 1990.

These talks are dealing with somewhat specific measures that dont necessarily involve the STC directly, said Adam Baron, an analyst at the European Council on Foreign Relations.

But any substantive peace process would likely have to involve the STC in some form.

Kawkab al-Thaibani, a Yemeni rights activist and member of the Women4Yemen network, called for women to be given more prominence.

This is not just a call for social equity. For these talks to be successful, women from both camps have to be represented, al-Thaibani said.

We need the effective participation of women, both in terms of numbers and representation. Women are absent and are poorly represented by both sides and unless they are included in future political discussions, the talks will be doomed to fail.

What might come out of these talks?

Getting the warring parties around the negotiating table is in itself a major achievement, according to analysts.

Realistically, a best-case scenario would be to see a set of announcements on confidence-building measures, a set of de-escalation agreements and then some sort of agreement for further talks, said Baron.

But the trust among the various parties is so low at this point that this really is starting off from ground zero.

Maysaa Shuja al-Deen, a non-resident fellow at the Sanaa Center for Strategic Studies, said while this first round of talks would be a trust-building exercise, there could still be several breakthroughs.

Agreeing on a ceasefire is going to be pretty easy, she said. The Houthis have already said they will not fire missiles into Saudi Arabia and the UAE. So while it seems like a big outcome, its actually a pretty simple and straight-forward issue.





The major issues are: What happens with Hodeidah port and the city and will the Houthis transfer control to the UN?

Also, what happens to the thousands of prisoners held by both sides? This is a priority for the government. They have a lot of people who are being held by the Houthis, such as the former Minister of Defence, General Mahmoud Al Subaihi, and one of Hadis relatives, his nephew, Nasser Ahmed Mansour Hadi, she said.

Around 1.2 million civil servants have not been paid since 2016, compounding the countrys humanitarian crisis, and that is something the Houthis would be looking to address, al-Deen said.

Shireen al-Adeimi, a Yemeni political analyst and assistant professor at Michigan State University, said it would be difficult to see the crisis come to a conclusion without the end of foreign intervention.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE have set up military bases in several parts of southern Yemen, and control the countrys airspace and seas.

Before the war, there was a discussion of Yemen becoming a federal state, something akin to the relationship Quebec has with Canada, said Adeimi.

Something like that could be well received and placate some of the grievances we see among southerners, she said. But the people see Hadi as a traitor, someone who has completely failed them  a Saudi puppet.

Unless there is an end to this foreign intervention, unless the Yemenis are given a chance to decide their future for themselves, it will be hard to see the country begin the healing process.



Lalibela, Ethiopia  The Ethiopian town of Lalibela is one of the countrys most famous and serene settings, beloved by tourists and Ethiopian Orthodox Christians alike for its concentration of rock-hewn churches.

But the usual reverence and spiritual tranquillity pervading this beguiling location, remotely perched at an altitude of 2,630 meters in the Ethiopian Highlands, has lately been disturbed by locals protesting what they see as disregard and neglect of one of the countrys most holy institutions.

They were meant to be renovated after five years, but still nothing has happened, 37-year-old Daniel Fethi, who works as a tourist guide, says of giant protective screens erected 10 years ago by international donors to protect churches from the erosive effects of rain and sunshine.

People are worried about them damaging the churches. But the most significant problem is the beauty of the churches being hidden. Its a holy place: instead of going to Jerusalem, people come here, Fethi said.

In the early morning light, white-robed worshippers come to offer prayers, petitions and mournful chants at the imposing churches  several are in excess of 10 metres tall  precisely carved and minutely decorated beneath the ground, amid underground galleries and open trenches, passageways and rooms, all of it excavated out of the rock.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978, the cluster of 13 churches are one of Ethiopias most popular tourist destinations, bringing much-needed revenues and employment opportunities to Lalibela.

Concerns have, however, been raised regarding conservation and management of revenues generated from the monuments, often dubbed as an unofficial eighth wonder of the world.

The role of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, which gains revenue from the churches, has come in for criticism.

Its a bit shocking what they have done, Marie-Laure Derat, who leads an international team researching the origins of the site, says about recent repairs at Bet Mikael and Bet Golgotha churches.

Its not restoration, they havent even used the right colours. The work doesnt look like it will last for long, said Derat, who visited Lalibela last month.On November 23, France announced it was going to return 26 works of art to Benin illegally obtained after the French conquest of the Kingdom of Dahomey (modern-day Benin) in the 19th century. The decision was made after French President Emmanuel Macron reviewed a report by Senegalese economist Felwine Sarr and French art historian Benedicte Savoy recommending the permanent return of cultural artefacts removed from Africa during its colonisation.

The report has been lauded as a potential milestone in the struggle by African countries to recover works of art pillaged by Western colonisers. Others say it might set a tricky precedent that would accelerate demand from other African countries to have their artefacts returned.

The move by the French government followed a decision by the British Museum in October to return temporarily to Nigeria an undisclosed number of artworks stolen from the Kingdom of Benin (modern-day southern Nigeria).

I suppose these two announcements are a step forward  at least we are having a conversation about the return of stolen art  and I applaud Sarr and Savoy for documenting this appalling situation. But I find it difficult to pop the champagne and declare a brave new world on the return of 26 pieces when 70,000 others remain at the Musee du Quai Branly in France, not to mention the 69,000 at the British Museum, the 37,000 at the Weltmuseum in Austria; the 75,000 at the Future Humboldt Forum in Germany and the 180,000 at the Musee Royal de lAfrique Centrale in Belgium  in addition to an unknown number in the hands of private collectors.

I especially cannot celebrate when the paternalistic narratives that keep the majority of the continents cultural artefacts out of the hands of their rightful owners are still alive and well, judging by the significant amount of subsequent comments made rejecting restitution.

Some have expressed superficial regret for the colonial moment, but underscore that the cultural artefacts are better off in Western museums where they are preserved properly in air-conditioned galleries. Many of these objects are made of wood, they say  how would have they survived in Africa with all the heat and humidity if they hadnt been taken?

This is the logic of colonialism, a brutalising enterprise that cloaks its cruelty in benign concern that even fails to stand up to the laws of cause and effect. The question should be, how did the artefacts exist until the moment of capture in the first place, if Africans had not been taking care of them all those years?

We should never imagine that seizure of these objects was incidental or adjacent to the colonising enterprise  it was part and parcel of it.

The type and quantity of the coveted objects  the close attention paid by European museums and libraries, oftentimes far in advance of the movement of the troops, with certain museums already assigned with the housing of specific objects immediately after their acquisition by the armies, shows to what extent the targeted and plundered locations had sometimes much more to do with the museums than [mere] military plundering, Sarr and Savoys report states.

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In any case, fragmentation and enclosure were inherent to the colonial impulse and continue to be perpetuated by a capitalist ethos today. The modus operandi has been, and still is, to destroy the bulk of a resource in order to create scarcity, and then directly control the little that is left, often for a profit.

Furthermore, the argument for proper preservation betrays a carceral ethic that should not be left unchallenged. What makes us believe that sequestration and preservation are unequivocally good? For some of these objects, their circulation in the community, and their inevitable decay and replacement is part of their cultural value.

Another argument is that rich and secure museums around the world are the guardians of culture for those cultures which are not developed enough to reliably preserve and protect their antiquities.



I wonder who appointed those museums (and the white cultures they exist in), guardians of culture, and more importantly, who are they guarding it from?

The tendency for whiteness to universalise itself and elevate its own cultural specificity as a stand-in for humanitys collective heritage has devastating consequences for those who find themselves outside it. It creates the absurd situation we have here, where people are seriously arguing that the cultural artefacts need to be protected from the very cultures that created them. The suggestion that African people have to prove that they are worthy of their own cultural heritage is insulting and absurd.

Ultimately, it is rich for a colonising force to turn around and say the culture they had a hand in destroying no longer has the knowledge to safeguard their own cultural artefacts.

The colonial powers absolutely intended to destroy the cultures that they would come into contact with and to simultaneously monopolise knowledge of these cultures. This impulse to preserve the cultural objects for future generations that western museums are supposedly doing has benefited greatly by managing to alienate cultural objects from the people who created them. As digital heritage specialist Tayiana Chao said on Twitter, it is like saying: we admire your genius, but despise your humanity, and for that, you should be grateful.

As for those arguing that African people do not have the ability or the interest to preserve their own cultural artefacts, they have also been proven wrong. In 2012, for example, as an al-Qaeda-supported conflict raged in northern Mali, local people used donkey carts, boats, and teenage couriers to smuggle out of Timbuktu a priceless collection of manuscripts that were in danger of being destroyed.

These manuscripts were not sequestered in an archive but were kept safe by individual families for centuries  something antithetical to the carceral ethic of Western museums. They were painstakingly smuggled out of the city, one box at a time, in an operation that took months.

This paternalistic view that colonialism was a favour needs to be done away with, categorically. There should be no cooperation, circulation, and long-term loans of these objects: just a clear, unequivocal, restitution. And to restitute  for those in the West who are not aware  literally means to return an item to its legitimate owner.

It doesnt matter how much Western people love and care for these artefacts, the fact remains that they are not theirs. After all, Western cultures have fought wars to defend property rights, pity they seem less concerned when it comes to things that belong to Africans.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance.Khaltmaa Battulga won more than 50 percent of the votes in a scandal-ridden presidential runoff campaign.

A brash businessman with martial arts skills has clinched Mongolias first ever presidential runoff election after his opponent conceded defeat in the scandal-plagued race to take the helm of the resource-rich but debt-laden country.

Khaltmaa Battulga, of the opposition Democratic Party (DP), won with 50.6 percent of the vote on a 60.9 percent turnout, giving him the majority needed to overcome his opponent, parliament speaker Miyeegombo Enkhbold of the ruling Mongolian Peoples Party (MPP).





Election officials are still, however, waiting on a final count of votes from abroad.

Recognising he was down for the count, Enkhbold thanked his supporters in a concession speech broadcast on Facebook, saying that he would respect and accept the presidential results.

Although the MPP couldnt succeed in this election, the cabinet will keep working to complete our agenda of overcoming the financial crisis for the well being of our people, said Enkhbold.

He added that he had spoken to the sitting president about transferring power as well as presidential stamp in the parliament house which also ends the election.

Meanwhile, Battulga promised his supporters in the capital Ulaanbaatars Independence Square he would push the government in order to complete all their work.

We did this thanks to the power of the people, said Battulga.

Al Jazeeras Adrian Brown, reporting from Nalaikh, said Battulgas campaign message of Mongolia First appealed to the younger generation.

More than half of the countrys population is under the age of 30.

READ MORE: Divided Mongolians vote in hotly contested elections

During the election campaign, the main issues for people were the economy, unemployment, China and the fact that Mongolia needs to find other trading partners, he said.

The first priority for the new president will be dealing with the economy.

Battulga, the real estate tycoon, whose company funded a massive $4.1m statue of emperor Genghis Khan, has pledged to tap the countrys mining wealth to get Mongolians out of debt.

The president will inherit a $5.5bn IMF-led bailout designed to stabilise the countrys economy and lessen its dependence on China, which purchases 80 percent of Mongolian exports.

The former Soviet satellites economy grew by a measly one percent last year, a stark contrast from an impressive 17 percent in 2011.

It has been hit hard by a more than 50 percent fall in the price of copper, its main export, over the past five years, while the slowing growth of its biggest customer, China, has hobbled the economy.The decision came after his hearing on November 19, but his lawyer was only made aware of it on Sunday.

Egyptian authorities have renewed the detention of Al Jazeeras journalist Mahmoud Hussein for another 45 days, adding to the 713 days he has already spent in jail without charges.

The decision came after his hearing on November 19, but his lawyer was only made aware of it on Sunday.

Egypt accused the Qatar-based news producer of broadcasting false news and receiving foreign funds to defame state institutions, but he is yet to be formally charged.

Hussein and Al Jazeera strongly deny the allegations, and the move to continue to hold him has drawn international criticism.

Husseins detention has breached Egypts own penal code, since he has been held for more than 620 days, the maximum period permitted for an individual being investigated for a felony, without a trial. Authorities should have either released Hussein or referred him to court.

Hussein was arrested on December 20, 2016, by Egyptian authorities upon his arrival in Cairo for an annual vacation to visit his family.

Since then he has been put in solitary confinement and denied his legal rights.

In February, the United Nations called Husseins jailing arbitrary detention, saying the appropriate remedy would be to release Mr Hussein immediately.





Prisons for journalists

Egypt also imprisoned Al Jazeeras Abdullah Elshamy, Baher Mohamed, Mohamed Fahmy and Peter Greste on charges of spreading false news, in a case that was widely condemned by international media outlets and many politicians.

All have since been released.

Ibrahim Helal, former editor-in-chief of Al Jazeera Arabic, was sentenced to death in absentia for purportedly endangering national security. Several other colleagues have also been charged in absentia, such as journalists Sue Turton and Dominic Kane.

Reporters Without Borders ranked Egypt 161 out of 180 in its 2017 press freedom index, a blacklist of countries considered prisons for journalists.

According to our statistics in 2016, we noticed there were at least 20 journalists behind bars because of their work, says Alexandra El Khazen from Reporters Without Borders.

Theyd find themselves in a group political trial with hundreds of others accused. The accusations against them are political, because of their journalistic work, as if they were activists or terrorists.

Husseins current colleagues describe him as a trustworthy, passionate and experienced journalist.

He did his job objectively. He always maintained balance and professionalism in his reportage, Al Jazeera Arabic presenter Mohammad Krichen said.Sudans Forgotten Films follows the journey of two men as they attempt to rescue the African nations film archive.

Al Jazeeras flagship programme, Witness, has won the prestigious Arts and Culture Story of the Year Award for its documentary Sudans Forgotten Films.

Independent filmmakers Suhaib Gasmelbari and Katharina Von Schroeder received the honour at the Foreign Press Association Media Awards ceremony in London on November 26.

The film, which follows the journey of two men as they attempt to save Sudans film archive of 13,000 films  one of the biggest in Africa  was received with overwhelming acclaim upon release in the African nation and sparked renewed interesting in rescuing the countrys cultural heritage.

The stand-out five-star film told a sweet and lyrical story providing a rare historical perspective, judges said about Sudans Forgotten Films.

Executive Producer Fiona Lawson-Baker said the award is a credit to the excellent work of Al Jazeeras Witness team who are committed to independent filmmaking voices worldwide.

Its an honour to accept this award on behalf of the filmmakers and ultimately it is a tribute to the two main characters, Awad and Benjamin. You have done a beautiful job, Benjamin, said Lawson-Baker.

Al Jazeera English was also nominated for an award in the TV News Story of the Year category for a story about the trafficking of Rohingya women and children by Charles Stratford.

Witnesss Venezuela Smuggling Dreams and The Cut: Exploring FGM were both nominated in the Documentary of the Year Category.

Celebrating its 130th anniversary, the Foreign Press Association have celebrated and supported great international journalism since 1888.

It is the oldest association of foreign journalists in the world and has members from over 65 countries and 250 outlets. The FPA Media Awards are now in their 19th year.UNHCR and Australian doctors criticise policy as more details of trauma of detainees on remote Pacific islands emerge.

The Australian government, under pressure for its harsh migrant detention policy, has received a double blow as the United Nations and a leading doctors group again criticised its harsh treatment of refugees held on remote Pacific islands.

The regional office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on Monday accused bureaucrats and politicians of overruling doctors and putting lives at risk at camps on Nauru and Manus.

Australia sends migrants who try to reach the island continent by boat into offshore detention as part of a years-old policy designed to deter would-be asylum-seekers.

Catherine Stubberfield, a spokeswoman for the UNHCR, was quoted as saying by the AFP news agency that the policy had been sold too simplistically and that changing it was now a matter of basic human treatment and decency.

The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) on Monday also threw its weight behind those calling for the government to change course.





The minority government of Prime Minister Scott Morrison has quietly begun to transfer children off the island of Nauru, but is under immense pressure to close it completely.

Around 160 people, including women and children, remain in Nauru and it is believed as many as 600 men are still in transition centres on Manus after the Australian-run camp there was closed late last year.

Resignation syndrome

Also on Monday, Kerryn Phelps, a doctor and independent member of parliament, put forward legislation requiring the temporary transfer from Nauru or Manus of anyone assessed as needing medical treatment as well as the temporary transfer of all children and their families from Nauru.

In a statement, the UNHCR supported the bill saying it would ensure the fundamental healthcare that is the right of every human being.

Meanwhile, Doctors Without Border, also known by its French initials MSF, said on Monday that almost a third of the people they had treated in Nauru before being expelled by the government in October had reported attempting suicide.

A dozen patients, the organisation said, had been diagnosed with resignation syndrome  a condition that causes people to withdraw into themselves in an almost comatose state.

David Isaacs of the RACP, a paediatrician who treated children in Nauru in 2015, said access to medical care must be determined by a doctor.

There is a medical crisis in offshore detention, Isaacs was quoted as saying by AFP. It is a crisis that is entirely preventable. The government can act to end it.

Polls show that a large number of Australians would like to bring the remaining children off Nauru, but are split on whether the broader population should be brought to Australia.

The tough detention policy is popular with Morrisons right-wing base, which he needs to shore up amid dwindling support in parliament ahead of national elections due to be held by May.

Morrison has argued the policy deters people smugglers and saves lives, but the latest criticism from the UNHCR will only add to the pressure on the government.

Australia retains responsibility for those it has relocated under so-called offshore processing, Stubberfield said.

She suggested the government policy was partly responsible for the death of 24-year-old Hamid Khazaei, who died of sepsis contracted on Manus Island.

Had he been evacuated to Australia within 24 hours of developing severe sepsis, Khazaei would have survived.Coalition forces fighting ISIL say it carried out air raid against a senior leader involved in executing US aid worker.

The United States-led coalition fighting the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) says it carried out air raids in Syria targeting a senior leader involved in the execution of American aid worker Peter Kassig and other prisoners.

Coalition forces spokesman Sean Ryan said on Sunday that they carried out precision strikes against Abu al Umarayn, a senior leader of the ISIL, as well as several other members of the group in Syrias Badiyah Desert.

Al Umarayn has given indications of posing an imminent threat to coalition forces and he was involved in the killing of American citizen and former US Army Ranger, Peter Kassig, Ryan said.

There was no immediate comment from ISILs Amaq news agency.

Ryan said the coalition forces were continuing to remove key figures from ISIL ranks through air raids.

Kassig, aged 26 at the time of his death, was among a group of prisoners decapitated by ISIL in November 2014.





His execution, along with other killings, was shown in a video released by the group.

The footage did not show Kassigs beheading, but showed a masked man with a decapitated head covered in blood at his feet. This is Peter Edward Kassig, a US citizen, the masked man says in the video.

The apparent executioner, British national Mohammed Emwazi, also known as Jihadi John, was killed in a coalition air raid in 2015.

Kassig, also known as Abdul-Rahman, a name he took after converting to Islam in captivity, was abducted on his way to the Syrian city of Deir al-Zor on October 1, 2013.

He founded a humanitarian organisation in 2012 that trained some 150 civilians to provide medical aid to people in Syria. His group also distributed food, cooking supplies, clothing and medicine among the needy.

The international coalition intervened in Syria and Iraq in 2014 to fight the expansion of ISIL after the group took control of vast swaths of territory straddling the two countries.

Defeated in Iraq, the group retains territory in some parts of the Syrian desert, particularly in the east of the country, where the coalition forces continue to fight the ISIL with the support of an alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters.Prosecutors rejected Italys appeal to name policemen suspected of PhD students murder, citing lack of evidence.

Prosecutors in Egypt have rejected an Italian request to name several policemen as suspects in the murder of Giulio Regeni, a 28-year-old PhD student who was killed in Cairo in January 2016, local media reported.

Prosecutors said there was no concrete evidence to convict and incarcerate the policemen, according to Egypts official news agency.

Egyptian authorities previously turned down a similar request by Italy a year ago.

Charges should be based on evidence and not suspicions, Egypts State Information Service said in a statement released late on Sunday.





Egyptian and Italian public prosecutors met in Cairo on Wednesday to discuss the investigations into Regenis case, it said, quoting a judicial source.

The Italian prosecutors asked their Egyptian counterparts to approve the inclusion of a number of Egyptian policemen on its register of suspects in Italy, it added.

The policemen are suspected by Italian prosecutors of gathering information about Regeni, according to the source.

Despite months of cooperation between Egyptian and Italian prosecutors, no one has been arrested or charged over the killing. Italy is pressing Egypt to speed up the investigation.

Regenis body was found, several days after he was killed, bearing signs of extensive torture which activists and rights groups say is common in Egyptian detention facilities.

Egyptian authorities have denied involvement in his death and initially suggested Regeni died in a traffic accident. They later said he was killed by a criminal gang that was subsequently wiped out in a shoot-out with police.

Italys foreign minister on Friday had summoned Egypts ambassador and urged Cairo to respect its commitment to move quickly and bring to justice those responsible for the murder of Regeni, who was researching trade unions in Egypt.

Judicial sources in Italy also said last week that they would soon place under official investigation at least two members of Egypts security forces over their alleged involvement in Regenis disappearance.Move seen as part of wider campaign by Hungarian government targeting billionaire philanthropist.

Budapest, Hungary  Budapests Central European University (CEU), which has fought for 20 months to secure its continued presence in the Hungarian capital despite pressure from the government, announced it has been forced out and will move to Vienna.

The confirmation of CEUs departure came on Monday after the university set a December 1 deadline for the Hungarian government to sign an agreement with the state of New York.

CEUs US-accredited courses are registered in New York, certifying that CEU met the obligations of a law passed last year compelling foreign universities in Hungary to have a campus in their home country.

The university offers diplomas accredited in both the United States and Hungary, but did not offer courses in the US at the time the law was passed.

CEU has been forced out, its president and rector Michael Ignatieff said in a press release on Monday.

This is unprecedented. A United States institution has been driven out of a country that is a NATO ally. A European institution has been ousted from a member state of the EU.

The university hoped to continue offering Hungarian-accredited courses in Budapest, but were in a lawless situation, added Ignatieff.

Only one-fifth of CEUs courses have Hungarian accreditation, officials said.

Responding to the news, US State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said Washington was disappointed the two sides had not come to an agreement.

Since the Hungarian government amended its law on higher education in April 2017, we have worked diligently with both parties to find a solution that would allow CEU to preserve these programs in Hungary, she said in a statement.

The departure of these US-accredited programs from Hungary will be a loss for the CEU community, for the United States, and for Hungary.

Academic freedom

The university has opened a set of courses at Bard College in New York state, which was visited by delegates from the Hungarian government in April.

Saturday saw the deadline expire, despite students of the embattled university occupying Kossuth Lajos Square, where the Hungarian parliament is located.

Students endured sub-zero temperatures in an attempt to force the government to sign the agreement, as well as ensure academic freedom for other Hungarian institutions.

If this isnt an attack on a US institution, I dont know what is, said Ignatieff.

Observers view CEU as a target of the Hungarian government.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who heads the ruling Fidesz party, has stated his desire to create an illiberal democracy and made remarks viewed as racist, xenophobic and anti-Semitic.

CEUs founder, Hungarian-American billionaire George Soros, is known for his support of liberal causes and organisations, including those that assist refugees, which Fidesz has railed against since the height of the 2015 refugee crisis.

The Soros university is leaving but staying. Its common knowledge that a significant number of its courses will still be held in Budapest. This is nothing more than a Soros-style political bluff, which does not merit the attention of the government, a government spokesperson told Al Jazeera.

A spokesperson for the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Hungarian news agency MTI last week: the campus of the Soros university is a wooden shed on the grounds of Bard College that does not meet the requirements of the law.

Members of the universitys community hoped the US would be able to exert pressure on the Hungarian government.

The US Ambassador to Hungary, David Cornstein, spoke in support of CEU, saying in September that a tentative agreement had been made to keep the university in Budapest. That agreement remained unsigned.

The very rude elevator screamers are paid professionals only looking to make Senators look bad. Dont fall for it! Also, look at all of the professionally made identical signs. Paid for by Soros and others. These are not signs made in the basement from love! #Troublemakers  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 5, 2018

The European Parliament voted to initiate punitive measures against Hungary in September. A report named CEUs case as a contributing factor for the vote, as well as an alleged decline in media freedom and the countrys treatment of refugees, among other reasons.

Dutch MEP Judith Sargentini, who helped author the report on the Hungarian governments alleged attacks on rule of law, told Al Jazeera it was a dark day for Hungary and for Europe. Strong and independent academia is the cornerstone of a functioning democracy.

CEUs departure shatters the last illusions that Hungary is anything other than an autocracy, she added.

The universitys administration also expressed concern about the impact the institutions departure will have on Hungary itself.

CEU Provost Liviu Matei said Hungarys moves against CEU are part of an erosion of liberties and the freedom of individuals and institutions in the country.

While CEU is being forced to leave, Matei said he doesnt think everyone will leave, or shut up, and this situation will not last forever.Verdicts are linked to botched Israeli undercover operation in Gaza last month in which seven Palestinians were killed.

A military court in the Gaza Strip has sentenced six Palestinians to death for allegedly collaborating with Israel.

The court sentenced eight other defendants to prison for various periods in addition to hard labour.

Iyad al-Bazm, the spokesperson for Gazas Interior Ministry said that of those eight, four  including a woman  were sentenced to jail terms ranging from six to 10 years.

The court also gave [the other] four people a 15-year jail term each for collaboration with hostile parties, he told a press conference held in Gaza City.

The verdicts are a clear message to spies of the [Israeli] occupation, al-Bazm said.

The verdicts were delivered three weeks after seven Palestinians and one Israeli officer were killed when an alleged Israeli army cell in Gaza was uncovered on November 11, leading to a vicious battle.

The Israeli unit escaped from Gaza under cover of Israeli air raids on the strip, a coastal enclave that has been ruled by the Hamas movement since 2007.

The groups armed wing fired hundreds of rockets at Israel in response, with Israeli forces attacking dozens of targets in Gaza before a November 13 ceasefire agreement.

Crackdown on alleged spies

The botched undercover raid has led to a crackdown on suspected collaborators by Hamas, the group said.

We tell all collaborators to make their own calculations and turn themselves in because sooner or later we will get to them. Our job is to protect the forces of the resistance, and its an important task for us, the group said in a statement.

Hamas had previously published photos of eight alleged Israeli undercover agents but did not identify them.

According to an interview with the British Independent, Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem said the members of the Israeli unit were posing as NGO workers and had used fake Palestinian identity cards based on eight unsuspecting Gaza residents.

The IDs were found in the wreckage of the destroyed military vehicle the Israelis left behind.

They had detailed but fake ID cards of Gaza residents which were found [in the wreckage], Qassem told the Independent.

Those who the Israelis were posing as were detained but they had no idea their names had been used, he added.

Israeli daily Haaretz reported that according to an anonymous Hamas official, the Israeli agents were stopped at a checkpoint in the southern strip and claimed they were returning patients back to their homes.

Qassem said that after questioning the undercover agents at the checkpoint, Palestinian security personnel suspected them because of their accents that didnt match the area they claimed to come from.

The Israeli team then reportedly opened fire after senior Hamas officers were summoned to the scene, which resulted in the killing of a Hamas commander and his deputy.

The Israeli army did not issue comment.

Death penalty always wrong

Hamas has executed 28 Palestinians, the majority on charges of aiding Israel, since 2007.

Security agencies in the blockaded Gaza Strip launch frequent crackdowns on suspected spies.

Such suspects always face trial behind closed doors, while the media is usually prevented from covering the proceedings.

Rights groups accuse Hamas of killing dozens of other suspected collaborators extra-judicially.

Rushing to sentence people to death smacks of militia rule, not the rule of law, said Omar Shakir, the Human Rights Watch director for Israel and the Palestinian territories.

The death penalty is a barbaric practice and always wrong, no matter the circumstance, he told AFP.

It was not clear when the executions of those in custody would take place.Hong Kong authorities have barred a pro-democracy legislator from running in a local election due to his implicit support for Hong Kongs independence from China, in what critics say is another instance of civil rights being eroded in the Beijing-ruled city.

Eddie Chu Hoi-dick, 40, a former journalist and land activist, was democratically elected as one of Hong Kongs 70 legislators in a 2016 election, winning more votes than any other candidate despite running as an independent.

He had planned to contest a separate grassroots poll to represent a village in the rural hinterland of the New Territories.

But an official with Hong Kongs Electoral Affairs Commission, Enoch Yuen, wrote to Eddie on Sunday, disqualifying him as a candidate on the grounds that he had previously expressed support for independence as an option for Hong Kong people to self-determine their future.

While Eddie had written to Enoch stating he didnt support independence, she concluded that Eddies answers when viewed objectively, can be understood as implicitly confirming that he supports independence could be an option for Hong Kong people.

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According to the South China Morning Post, it is the first time a candidate has been barred from running in the rural election because of his political stance.

Eddie said he might challenge the ridiculous decision in court, and that he had been stripped of a fundamental political right at a time when Beijing has tightened its grip on the city.

He pointed out that he was already an elected legislator with strong public backing, whose suitability for public office had never previously been questioned.

I think the incident has revealed this logic  not only must you not advocate independence, you have to oppose it, he told reporters. I have not moved the goalposts. I have not changed.

They need to clearly tell the people of Hong Kong  how they can, without any public consultation or legislative process, change the threshold of political screening, he said.

One country, two systems

Hong Kong, a former British colony, reverted to Chinese rule in 1997 amid guarantees the territory would enjoy a high degree of autonomy and freedoms under a one country, two systems formula.

Over the past year, however, international concern has spread over a series of incidents that have further undermined confidence in the rights situation in Hong Kong, including the de facto expulsion of a British journalist after he hosted a speech by a pro-independence activist at a press club.

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Sundays move adds Eddie to a list of other democrats who have been banned from contesting elections, raising fears of tightening political red lines by Beijing that could deny Hong Kongs disaffected young people any mainstream political careers beyond street protest.

In a statement, a government spokesman said late on Sunday that the government agrees to and supports the decision to ban Eddie. It also denied there had been any political censorship, restriction of the freedom of speech or deprivation of the right to stand for elections.

There will be consequences, be it the public losing hope in the government, or other countries perception of one country, two systems, Eddie said. One day we will fight back again.

Hong Kong authorities say self-determination, or seeking greater autonomy from China, violates the citys mini-constitution, the Basic Law, which states that Hong Kong is an inalienable part of China.Police and a youth killed in clashes in northern state after carcass of a cow was allegedly found on a farm.

Two people, including a police officer, have been killed in northern India during violent protests by villagers over suspicions of cow slaughter, officials said.

Police said a crowd of about 400 people gathered after hearing about the carcasses of animals, including a cow, reportedly being found on a farm on Monday morning.

Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh and a 20-year-old man died after clashes erupted in a village in Uttar Pradesh states Bulandshahr district.

The officer died from gunshot wounds, district magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha told Reuters news agency.

Earlier, police had said the officer was stoned to death while the resident died from gunshot wounds.

After the villagers found a dead cow, they took to the streets. They blocked a road with a tractor and pelted stones, senior police official Anand Kumar said in a televised news conference.

Doctors & #Bulandshahr DM confirmed to me Inspector #SubodhKumarSingh died due to bullet in his skull. Right wing groups protesting against cow slaughter attacked Subodh Kumar with stones & shot him. @myogiadityanath,first deal with terrorists operating from right under your nose  Tanushree Pandey (@TanushreePande) December 3, 2018

Indias Hindu majority regards cows as holy and their slaughter is banned in several Indian states.

We sent police teams to control the crowd after we heard protesters pelted stones and some even opened fire, Jha told DPA news agency by phone.

It is not clear this was firing from the crowd or the police, he said, adding the protests subsided by early evening.

Local news channel NDTV reported the protests erupted after the carcasses of 25 cows were found.

Hindu vigilantes often roam the roads in northern India to protect cows, frequently resulting in assaults against Indias Muslim population  some 14 percent of the countrys 1.3 billion people.





Thirty-nine people have been killed in cow-related violence in India since 2014 when Prime Minister Narendra Modis Bharatiya Janata Party came to power, according to data portal IndiaSpend.

Modi has condemned the attacks and promised tough action against the perpetrators, but opposition leaders accuse the government of indirectly supporting the so-called Hindu cow vigilantes.

In July, Indias Supreme Court requested that the government enact new legislation to end an increase in mob violence and lynchings that have reportedly killed more than two dozen people accused of cattle theft, eating beef, child kidnapping and other crimes in the country this year.Torrential rain inundates streets in northern Iraq, paralysing traffic, and forcing schools and offices to close.

Nearly 85 families have fled their homes in various areas of the northern city of Mosul over the weekend, following two days of flash floods, an Iraqi civil defence official said on Monday.

The heavy rain paralysed traffic, causing widespread disruption, with schools and offices closed.

Six bridges and 300 tents in the Nimrud refugee camp were reportedly damaged as a result of the heavy rainfall.

The floods were an outcome of unusually heavy and early rainfall which has been plaguing the Levant region for a few weeks now.

It has piled pressure on Iraqs new government to provide services and fix infrastructure problems in the provinces hard-hit by the 2014-17 war against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group, and by years of neglect that critics blame on corruption.

Mosul residents blame local and central governments, with one resident calling for the intervention of foreign experts to renovate the citys decaying sewage system.

Heavy rain is expected to return across much of Iraq by the end of the week, with civil defence officials on alert to avoid further damage, officials said.Saudi-UAE coalition says arrangement requested by UN envoy Griffiths as goodwill gesture before Sweden peace talks.

Wounded Houthi rebels have been flown out of the Yemeni capital Sanaa for medical treatment to Oman on a United Nations plane.

The flight for the Omani capital took off at 6pm local time (1500 GMT) and carried 50 rebels, their escorts and a team of doctors, a security source at Sanaas international airport told AFP news agency.

The announcement on Monday came after Martin Griffiths, the UN envoy to Yemen, requested this arrangement as a goodwill gesture in the run-up to planned peace talks in Sweden.

The evacuation marks a key step forward in kickstarting stalled negotiations as world powers press for an end to the devastating four-year war that has pushed Yemen, the worlds worst humanitarian disaster, to the brink of famine.

The fate of wounded rebels had been a stumbling block to the start of a previous round of aborted peace talks in September.

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A UN chartered plane will arrive at Sanaa international airport Monday to evacuate 50 wounded combatants accompanied by  three Yemeni doctors and a UN doctor, from Sanaa to Muscat, Turki al-Maliki, the spokesperson for the Saudi-UAE coalition, said in a statement carried by the official Saudi Press Agency.

The US-backed military alliance agreed to facilitate the medical evacuations at the request of Griffiths for humanitarian reasons and as a confidence-building measure, Maliki added in the statement.

There was no immediate reaction from the Houthi rebels or the UN.

The proposed UN-brokered peace talks have been backed by both the rebels and the Saudi-led government and were expected to take place in Sweden this week.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, however, has played down the early December schedule and said he hoped talks would start this year.

Houthi rebels have said they will attend the talks if they are guaranteed safe passage.

Talks planned for September in Geneva failed to get under way as the Houthi delegation never left Yemens rebel-held capital, arguing that the UN could not guarantee their safe return.

They also accused the world body of failing to secure the evacuation of wounded rebels to Oman.

Previous talks broke down in 2016, when 108 days of negotiations in Kuwait failed to yield a deal and left rebel delegates stranded in Oman for three months.

In recent days, Griffiths has held talks separately with officials from both warring parties as part of efforts to lay the groundwork for talks in Sweden.

Sigurd Neubauer, a non-resident fellow at the Gulf International Forum, called the evacuation announcement a welcome development.

The fact that we are even discussing this issue, which previously was off limits, is in itself a diplomatic victory, he told Al Jazeera.

We should always have cautious optimism because the first results that we would have to look at is whether or not these peace talks take place.

The second aspect is that if they do indeed take place we will expect some sort of resolution between the Houthis and the UN and the Saudis over whether the UN will take over the management of the port of Hodeidah to help bring in humanitarian supplies into Yemen.

If that is achieved, then the rest of the peace process will be on good tracks  but thats the first, if and when the peace talks take place.

UN aid chief Mark Lowcock had warned last week that Yemen was on the brink of a major catastrophe, following a trip to the country.

Yemen has been torn apart by the conflict since 2014, when the Houthis, allied with troops loyal to former President Ali Abdullah Saleh, captured large expanses of the country, including Sanaa.

Saudi Arabia launched a massive aerial campaign against the rebels in March 2015, aimed at restoring the government of exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi.

More than 14 million civilians in Yemen now face starvation, while over three-quarters of the population  some 22 million people  need humanitarian assistance. Aid groups estimate 85,000 children may have died of hunger and cholera while tens of thousands of civilians are believed to have been killed, largely by Saudi-led bombings.The Boeing 787 Dreamliner will be flown to an airport in southern California on Monday, as it awaits a new owner.

The luxurious plane used to transport Mexicos former president around the world is about to fly away permanently, in one of the first moves by the new president to rid the country of what he has derided as a symbol of excess.

We are selling all the planes and helicopters that the corrupt politicians used, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador told a rally in Xalapa, Veracruz, on Sunday.

It will be flown on Monday to the Victorville airport in southern California at Boeings recommendation as it awaits a new owner, according to a statement by the finance ministry.

At the rally, Lopez Obrador ticked off other campaign promises, including ending the pensions for former presidents and a pay cut for senior government officials that he described as significant money savers.

On Saturday morning, just before his formal inauguration, the veteran leftist ordered the doors open at Los Pinos, the opulent residence of Mexican presidents dating back eight decades.

Known for his frugal lifestyle, Lopez Obrador said he will not live at Los Pinos, and instead will convert the sprawling property into a cultural centre.

The luxurious plane used to transport Mexicos former President around the world is about to fly away [Daniel Becerril/Reuters]

A new presidency

The new president inherits a sticky set of problems from his unpopular predecessor, Enrique Pena Nieto, and other administrations.

They include deeply entrenched corruption, violence fueled by the war on drug cartels and the caravan of 6,000 Central American migrants and refugees camped at the US-Mexican border.

Lopez Obrador, a former protest leader and Mexico City mayor, has been short on specifics regarding some of his plans for these problems.

But what he is promising, first and foremost, is a presidency like no other in Mexican history.

Today we begin the fourth political transformation of Mexico, he said during his inauguration on Saturday. It may seem pretentious or exaggerated, but today not only begins a new government, today begins a change of political regime.

We will carry out a peaceful and orderly, but also deep and radical transformation.

After the traditional swearing-in ceremony, he travelled to Mexico Citys Zocalo square for a second ceremony of his own design, with tens of thousands of his supporters in attendance.

Now we are going to be listened to by our president, Maria del Rosario Garcia, a Mexican citizen told Al Jazeera from the square. That is the change I voted for and why Im here. Its the first time in my 46 years that I have come to this type of thing, she added.

Despite the optimism among his supporters, Lopez Obrador has inherited a sticky set of challenges which he has done little to address with specific policies so far.

He has said that everything is going to be pulled off by cutting corruption, but cutting corruption is not only a matter of political will, Marco Fernandez, an anti-corruption expert told Al Jazeera. Its a matter of constructing effective institutions, and so far in the measures, he has announced there is no institution building as a priority of the new government.

Mexicos new President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador gestures during his inauguration ceremony at Congress [Reuters]

Violence, huge challenge

For the past 12 years, the Mexican state has fought violent drug gangs by deploying thousands of police, soldiers and intelligence officers to crack down on cartels and their leaders.

Last year was the deadliest year in two decades, with over 23,000 murders, an increase of 10.7 percent compared with 2016.

In 2018, there were more than 18,000 murders in the first seven months, a 20 percent jump compared with the same period in 2017, according to the Ministry of Public Security.

If the trend continues, 2018 is set to be the most violent year ever in Mexico.

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In response, Obrador has announced the creation of a 60,000 strong national guard force made up of army, navy and other federal police that will battle crime, while a constitutional reform will be pursued to cement the new strategy.

A second phase will add additional military forces to the effort.

The people of Mexico need their armed forces to address this grave problem of insecurity and violence right now, said Lopez Obrador.

In the lead-up to the election, Obrador promised to rewrite the rules of the drug war, suggesting negotiated peace and amnesties for some of those who are currently being targeted by members of the security forces, and by removing the military from the streets.

But later he admitted that the federal police was not ready to replace the armed forces.

They [state and municipal police] are almost not working, to say it with diplomacy  they are not fulfilling their responsibility, Lopez Obrador said in August. This is the bitter reality.

Over the past dozen years, Mexican security forces have toppled some high-profile drug kingpins but more than 200,000 people have been killed and tens of thousands more disappeared since a military-focused approach was initiated in 2006.The head of British foreign intelligence set to deliver speech warning Russia should not underestimate UK capabilities.

The chief of British foreign intelligence agency MI6 is set to deliver a speech warning Russia not to underestimate the UKs capabilities and determination.

Alex Youngers speech comes after a brazen nerve agent attack on a retired double agent in England stoked fears about Russian covert activity abroad.

In only his second public address since becoming the head of MI6 four years ago, Alex Younger will warn Russia or any other state intent on subverting our way of life not to underestimate our determination and our capabilities or those of our allies, the Press Association said.

Younger will outline how, after the attack on Sergei Skripal, a former Russian military intelligence officer who betrayed dozens of agents to MI6, Britains allies in Europe and the United States ordered the biggest expulsion of Russian diplomats since the height of the Cold War.

The 55-year-old is also expected to describe how his agency played a central role in exposing the alleged perpetrators of the Salisbury nerve agent attack and the subsequent expulsion of Russian diplomats.

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Britain identified the nerve agent deployed in the town of Salisbury as Novichok, a highly potent group of nerve agents developed by the Soviet military in the 1970s and 1980s.

Moscow has repeatedly denied involvement and accused British intelligence agencies of staging the attack to stoke anti-Russian hysteria.

Speaking at St Andrews University in Scotland, where he once studied, Younger will say that Britains spies have thwarted multiple Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) plots originating overseas and that it is well equipped to counter adversaries taking advantage of the blurred lines between the cyber and physical worlds.

Earlier this year, Jeremy Fleming, head of Britains Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) spy agency accused Russia of not playing to the same rules and blurring the boundaries between criminal and state activity.

As the UK is due to leave the European Union on March 29, Younger will also say MI6 continues to work with partner agencies to strengthen indispensable security ties in Europe.

MI6 building in London [Matt Dunham/ AP Photo]

Fourth-generation espionage

A career spy who joined MI6 as the Soviet Union was crumbling, Younger will stress the need for fourth-generation espionage.

The era of the fourth industrial revolution calls for a fourth-generation espionage; fusing our traditional human skills with accelerated innovation, new partnerships and a mindset that mobilises diversity and empowers the young, he will say.

His speech aims to encourage students to join the agency: I want to speak to young people who have never seen themselves in MI6  If you want to make a difference and you think you might have what it takes, then the chances are that you do have what it takes, and we hope you will step forward.

An economics graduate and former soldier, Younger has worked for MI6 in Europe, the Middle East and Afghanistan since 1991, according to a short biography released by the government at the time of his appointment as MI6 chief.Nigerian leader refutes claims circulating on social media that he has died and been replaced by a Sudanese lookalike.

Nigerias President Muhammadu Buhari has denied claims that he had died and been replaced by a Sudanese impostor, quashing a rumour that has circulated on social media for months.

Its the real me, I assure you. I will soon celebrate my 76th birthday and I will still go strong, Buhari told Nigerians in a town hall session in Poland on Sunday, where he was attending a conference.

A lot of people hoped that I died during my ill health, he said, adding that those who spread the rumour were ignorant and irreligious.

The Nigerian leader, who is running for re-election in February, spent five months in the United Kingdom last year being treated for an undisclosed illness.

One theory widely aired on social media  and by some political opponents  was that he had been replaced by a lookalike from Sudan called Jubril.

One of the questions that came up today in my meeting with Nigerians in Poland was on the issue of whether Ive been cloned or not. The ignorant rumours are not surprising  when I was away on medical vacation last year a lot of people hoped I was dead. pic.twitter.com/SHTngq6LJU  Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) December 2, 2018

No evidence has been presented, but videos making the claim have still been viewed thousands of times on YouTube and Facebook.

The presidency circulated Buharis comments in an emailed statement entitled Its Real Me, President Buhari Responds to Cloning Allegation.The Philippine president, whose war on drugs has killed nearly 5,000, says he used cannabis but later retracted it.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, whose controversial war on drugs has killed thousands since he took power in 2016, has said he used cannabis to stay awake, but later retracted it, saying he was joking.

The president complained of his tight schedules in previous meetings, saying he could not handle them.

Dont say I told you but [Brunei Sultan Hassanal] Bolkiah always falls asleep, but he has a talent  and you dont notice, he said on Monday.

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Its a killing activity, Duterte said in a speech, talking about the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Singapore last month.

Me, [I dont fall asleep] as much because I was taking marijuana to stay awake, he said. For others, its not possible.

But after his speech, he told reporters he was just joking.

The comment is bound to upset families of the victims of his crackdown on narcotics. cannabis is illegal in the Southeast Asian nation and is not a stimulant.

His controversial war on drugs has killed nearly 5,000 suspected drug dealers and users since taking office in 2016.

This will definitely anger the families even more, Carlos Conde, a Philippines researcher with the New York-based Human Rights Watch, told Reuters.

There is a disconnect between what the president admitted to do and what the president said he will do to those who use drugs.

Duterte also complained about the bad food served during such conferences, adding that his delegation always brought corned beef and dried fish which they cooked in their rooms.

At last months ASEAN summit in Singapore, Duterte missed several meetings and events to catch up on his sleep, according to his spokesman Salvador Panelo.Gulf nations energy minister says withdrawal from 15-nation bloc will come into effect next month.

Qatar will withdraw from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), the Gulf nations Energy Minister Saad Sherida al-Kaabi announced.

The decision to quit the bloc of 15 oil-producing countries that account for a significant percentage of the worlds oil production was confirmed by Qatar Petroleum, the state oil company, on Monday.

Qatar announces it was withdrawing from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries OPEC effective 1 January 2019.  Qatar Petroleum (@qatarpetroleum) December 3, 2018

Speaking at a news conference in the capital Doha, al-Kaabi said: The withdrawal decision reflects Qatars desire to focus its efforts on plans to develop and increase its natural gas production from 77 million tonnes per year to 110 million tonnes in the coming years.

Qatar is the first Gulf country to leave the bloc of oil-producing countries.

Al Jazeeras Charlotte Bellis said that Qatar made the decision just days ahead of a December 6 OPEC meeting.

They say it has nothing to do with the blockade on Qatar and that they have been thinking about it for several months now, Bellis said, referring to a diplomatic blockade on Qatar by Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates ( UAE ), Egypt and Bahrain.

They also said that if you want to withdraw from OPEC it had to be done before the end of the year, she added. They said they wanted to do this now and be transparent ahead of a December 6 OPEC meeting.





Since 2013, the amount of oil Qatar produced has steadily declined from about 728,000 barrels per day in 2013 to about 607,000 barrels per day in 2017, or just under two percent of OPECs total output.

Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani, Qatars former prime minister, called the withdrawal a wise decision.

This organisation has become useless and adds nothing to us, Sheikh Hamad wrote on Twitter. They are used only for purposes that are detrimental to our national interest.

Alex Schindelar, executive editor of Energy Intelligence, told Al Jazeera that Qatar would not leave OPEC if there was no blockade on the country.

The GCC countries meet ahead of OPEC meetings to discuss their policies. It is a small group, where Qatar had a voice, he said.

Post-embargo, obviously Qatar was shut out of that. Now, they have little opportunity to have a say. They are hardly consulted now.

                 .       .       (@hamadjjalthani) December 3, 2018

Meanwhile, total production during the same period increased from 30.7 million barrels per day to 32.4 million barrels per day.

Qatar joined OPEC in 1961, one year after the organisations establishment.

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Earlier this week, OPEC and Russia, who together produce about 40 percent of the worlds oil, said they had agreed on new oil production cuts to ensure the oil price does not drop too much in the coming months.

In October, the oil price reached a four-year high of $86, but since then the price has dropped again to about $60 per barrel.

North Field

Qatar is the worlds biggest supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG), producing almost 30 percent of the world total.

According to Al Jazeeras Bellis, Al-Kaabi said the declaration was purely a business decision.

Al-Kaabi said We are a small player in OPEC, and Im a businessman, it doesnt make sense for me to focus on things that are not our strength, and gas is our strength so that is why weve made this decision, Bellis said.

Al-Kaabi added that the decision to increase the supply of natural gas is to develop a future strategy based on growth and expansion, both in its activities at home and abroad.

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Achieving our ambitious growth strategy will undoubtedly require focused efforts, commitment and dedication to maintain and strengthen Qatars position as the leading natural gas producer, he added.

Qatar shares the worlds largest known natural gas field, the North Field, with Iran.

In September, Qatar announced it would increase its production of natural gas by adding a fourth production line to raise capacity from the North Field to 110 million tonnes a year.

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Most of Qatars almost 80 million tonnes of annual LNG supplies are shipped in tankers to different countries, including the UAE, which is one of the countries imposing the blockade on Qatar.

Following the announcement of the blockade, Qatar said it would not shut down the gas pipeline to its fellow Gulf country.Qatar to focus on natural gas output

The Gulf nation, the worlds leading LNG producer, said it will withdraw from OPEC in January 2019.Colombo, Sri Lanka  A Sri Lankan court has barred former President Mahinda Rajapaksa from acting as prime minister as it hears a petition challenging his refusal to step down despite losing two no-confidence motions last month.

Judge Arjuna Obeyesekere issued the stay order on Monday, saying irreparable damage would be caused if Rajapaksa and ministers of his cabinet continued to hold office.

While the decision would leave Sri Lanka without a government, allowing a set of persons who are not entitled in law to function as the prime minister or the cabinet of ministers or any other minister of government would cause irremediable damage that poses far-reaching consequences to the whole country, the judge said.

The Court of Appeal will sit again on December 12 to deliver a verdict, he added.

Sri Lanka has been in crisis since October 26 when President Maithripala Sirisena sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with Rajapaksa, a controversial but popular leader accused of corruption and grave human rights abuses.

The former president, however, failed to show a majority in parliament, prompting Sirisena to dissolve the 225-member House and call snap elections. But both moves were temporarily blocked by the Supreme Court, which is expected to deliver a verdict in that case on December 7.





Responding to the latest setback, Rajapaksa said he did not agree with Mondays court order.

We will file an appeal at the Supreme Court tomorrow, he said, pledging to continue lobbying for early elections in the Indian Ocean island nation.

Both Rajapaksa and Sirisena have rejected the outcome of the no-confidence motions on November 14 and 16, despite some 122 legislators voting to remove the former president.

The pair claimed the speaker had failed to follow proper procedure by calling a voice vote on the motions.

Wickremesinghe, who heads the United National Party (UNP) and continues to lay claim to the post of prime minister, hailed the stay order as a triumph of democratic institutions over the whims of individuals.

Deadlock

Later on Monday, in a meeting with UNP legislators, Sirisena once again ruled out re-appointing Wickremesinghe, saying he would not do so even if all 225 MPs sign a petition, according to Lakshman Kirielle, a member of parliament.

The president called on the UNP to name another nominee whom he said he would make prime minister within 24 hours, another politician present at the meeting said.

The UNP has previously refused to heed Sirisenas request and put forward another name.

On Friday, the party, which has the backing of more than 100 politicians in parliament, said Wickremesinghe was still its choice for the prime ministers post.

Former allies, Sirisena and Wickremesinghe fell out spectacularly in recent months over economic policy, day to day administration, as well as an alleged assassination plot against the president.

Sirisena claimed Wickremesinghe failed to order a thorough investigation into the alleged plan.

Earlier on Monday, Sirisena promised the Tamil National Alliance, a coalition representing the countrys ethnic Tamil minority, that he would take the necessary action within the next 24 hours, according to leaders of that coalition.

Proud moment

Sagala Ratnayake, a UNP member, welcomed the decision, saying justice has prevailed.

The fake prime minister and his purported government have been thrown out of office by the judiciary. The Court of Appeal has protected parliamentary democracy from an illegal government, the legislator said.

Saliya Peiris, who heads a commission tracing tens of thousands of people who went missing during Sri Lankas 26-year-war with Tamil separatists, described the stay order as a proud moment for all those who value the Rule of Law and the independence of the judiciary in Sri Lanka.

The last several weeks has seen a vibrant judiciary in action-not only the higher courts but also the original courts- in public law cases as well as criminal cases. It is a proud moment for all those who value the Rule of Law and the Independence of the Judiciary in our country  Saliya Pieris (@saliyapieris) December 3, 2018

Others said the judiciary had proved it was strong and called on Rajapaksa to step down immediately.

Judiciary showed today; it is strong enough by giving an interim order first against the president @MaithripalaS & against the prime minister @PresRajapaksa & the cabinet. Reactivation of the judicial commission by the 19th amendment gave judiciary that capability.#lka #SriLanka  Prasad Welikumbura (@Welikumbura) December 3, 2018

Dear Mahinda Rajapaksa, there's the 

Please take Maithripala Sirisena with you and GO! #LKA #SriLanka #CoupLK  Munza Mushtaq (@munza14) December 3, 2018

Rathindra Kuruwita reported from Colombo. Zaheena Rasheed reported and wrote from DohaPakistan information minister says Trump sent letter to PM Imran Khan seeking help with Afghan peace talks.

US President Donald Trump has sought Pakistans help with Afghan peace talks in a letter to Prime Minister Imran Khan, the South Asian nations information minister, Fawad Chaudhry, has said.

President Trump has written a letter, Chaudhry told Reuters news agency on Monday. He has asked for Pakistans cooperation to bring the Taliban into talks.

Trump told Khan the Pakistan relationship was very important to Washington and to finding a solution to the conflict in Afghanistan, Chaudhry added.

The US embassy in Islamabad had no immediate comment on the letter.

Trump wants to end a 17-year war between Afghan security forces and the Taliban, who are fighting to drive out international forces and establish their version of strict Islamic law.

US officials have long been pushing Pakistan to lean on the Taliban leadership, which Washington says is based in the country, to bring them to the negotiating table.

Reporting from Islamabad, Al Jazeeras Kamal Hyder said that Pakistan has some leverage over the Afghan Taliban, who are winning the war in Afghanistan.

They have most of the territory under their control and they are still demanding the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan, he said. It is going to be interesting to see whether they will listen to Pakistan.

Pakistan, of course, are saying they will do whatever is possible, Hyder added. They have said all along that the negotiations in Afghanistan have to be Afghan-owned and Afghan-led.

Last month, Trump said in an interview Pakistan doesnt do a damn thing for the US despite billions of dollars in US aid, adding that Pakistani officials knew of former al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Ladens location before his killing by US troops in a 2011 raid inside Pakistan.

Last week, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said he had formed a 12-strong team to negotiate peace with the Taliban, but warned that implementation of any deal would take at least five years.London, United Kingdom  The United Kingdom government may have contravened parliamentary rules by failing to publish in full legal advice it received regarding British Prime Minister Theresa Mays widely criticised Brexit deal, the House of Commons speaker has ruled.

In a statement to the Commons late on Monday evening, Speaker John Bercow said there was an arguable case that a contempt of Parliament had been committed by the government after it refused to reveal the full extent of counsel it had been given on Mays European Union withdrawal plan.

His decision means parliamentarians will vote on Tuesday whether to refer the case to the cross-party Commons Standards Committee.

If a majority vote in favour of passing the issue up to the committee, it will then be tasked with determining whether a contempt took place and, if deemed necessary, recommending a punishment.

Any sanction suggested would need to be approved by the Commons before being enforced.

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Bercows ruling came just hours after a multi-party alliance headed by the main opposition Labour Party wrote to the speaker alleging the governments actions on Monday violated the result of a binding parliamentary vote carried out last month.

The November 13 vote demanded ministers publish all of the advice they received on the proposed EU withdrawal agreement.

The appeal to Bercow on Monday, announced by Labours Shadow Brexit Secretary Sir Keir Starmer, was backed by five other parties, including the ruling Conservative Partys government partners, the Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP).

It is apparent to us  and we believe the overwhelming majority of the House [of Commons]  that the information released today does not constitute the final and full advice provided by the Attorney General to the Cabinet, a letter jointly signed by representatives from each of the six parties said.

Acute clash of constitutional principle

The furore was kick-started by the governments publication of a 52-page summary of the legal counsel it received regarding Mays Brexit plan.





Addressing parliament on Monday, Attorney General Geoffrey Cox claimed publishing the full extent of legal advice received by the government over the deal would be contrary to the public interest.

I am caught in an acute clash of constitutional principle, he said.

Let us suppose I had given advice  covering all sorts of matters, including our relationships with foreign states  including matters of acute importance to this country, would it be right for the Attorney General, regardless of the harm to the public interest, to divulge his opinion. I say it wouldnt.

May, for her part, has claimed the full extent of advice received by her government over the Brexit deal is confidential under lawyer-client privilege.

Pressure mounts on PM

The British leader is under intense parliamentary and public scrutiny over her Brexit deal, which has drawn the ire of critics across the political spectrum, including from within her own party.

Earlier on Monday, former science and universities minister Sam Gyimah called on May to restore trust in politics ahead of next weeks parliamentary vote on her deal by publishing in full the legal advice received by the government regarding the proposed terms of withdrawal from the 28-member EU.

Levelling with the public and parliament on Brexit is key to restoring trust in politics, healing divisions and unifying the country behind any preferred outcome, he said on Twitter.

Gyimah quit the government last week over the terms of Mays brokered withdrawal agreement with the EU.

Analysts, meanwhile, said the ongoing furore over the publication of the legal advice was a means of undermining Mays embattled government as it seeks to cajole parliament into backing the British leaders EU withdrawal deal.

This is a move to ramp up pressure on May, she is already under attack from so many avenues and this is just another angle to try and attack her administration and undermine her Brexit deal, Pawel Swidlicki, a Brexit analyst at communications firm Edelman UK, told Al Jazeera.

It doesnt really change any of the fundamentals regarding Brexit, however, and when the debate on the substance of Mays deal starts tomorrow [in parliament] that will become the real story, he added.

The House of Commons will hold five days of debate from Tuesday on the governments proposed Brexit deal prior to the December 11 vote.Negotiators from nearly 200 nations have two weeks to agree on details of the 2015 Paris climate accord.

Delegates from around the world have kicked off two weeks of United Nations talks in Poland on tackling climate change, three years after the landmark 2015 Paris deal to shift away from fossil fuels.

The COP24 climate summit opened in the mining city of Katowice on Sunday, a day earlier than originally planned because of the large number of issues that need to be resolved by December 14.

This is a very, very important conference, Patricia Espinosa, the UNs climate chief, said.

It also takes place in a scenario where we have clear signals about the urgency with which we need to address the issues of climate change.

Four former leaders of UN talks, including Laurent Fabius of France, who led negotiations for the Paris agreement, issued a statement urging immediate action.

The world is at a crossroads and decisive action in the next two years will be crucial to tackle these urgent threats, they said in the joint statement.

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However, political divisions were clear from the outset, with Brazil having withdrawn its offer to host the 2019 talks.

The United States, meanwhile, reiterated at the G20 summit in Argentina on Saturday its decision to withdraw from the Paris accord and Its commitment to all energy sources.

The other members of the group of industrialised nations  including the biggest polluter, China  reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the Paris deal, taking into account their national circumstances.

The talks in Katowice  at the heart of Polands coal region  precede an end-of-year deadline to produce a rule book to flesh out the broad details that were agreed to in Paris, on limiting the rise in global temperatures to between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius.

Delegates said that one of the trickiest issues could be monitoring emissions as the US, which cannot quit the pact until 2020, uses the talks to press for a level of detail it perceives as useful to its foreign policy dealings.

But the negotiations got off to a chaotic start, with the opening session delayed by nearly three hours because of a series of last-ditch submissions.

Separately, the World Bank announced on Monday it is doubling funding for poor countries preparing for climate change to $200bn over five years (2021-2025).

The Washington-based organisation said that about half would come from the World Bank itself, while the rest would be sourced from other institutions within the group and private capital.

The bank said some $50bn will be earmarked for climate adaptation, a recognition that some adverse effects of global warming cannot be avoided any more but require a change in practice. This includes building homes that can withstand more extreme weather and finding new sources of freshwater as rising seas contaminate existing supplies.

Tens of thousands took part in the Claim the Climate march in Brussels [Francois Walschaerts/Reuters]

Meanwhile, tens of thousands of people marched on Sunday in Brussels, calling on governments to respect commitments on countering climate change.

Demonstrators marched through the quarter of the Belgian capital that houses the headquarters of the European Union, with banners bearing slogans including There is no planet B and Climate First, Politics Second.

A string of major climate reports have cast doubt over the entire process to avert runaway global warming, suggesting the Paris goals fall well short of what is needed.

Just last week, the UNs environment programme said the voluntary national contributions agreed in Paris would have to triple if the world was to cap global warming below 2C. For 1.5C, they must increase fivefold.

While the data are clear, a global political consensus over how to tackle climate change remains elusive.

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Katowice may show us if there will be any domino effect following the US withdrawal, said Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation and a main architect of the Paris deal.

For his part, Brazils President-elect Jair Bolsonaro vowed to follow Washingtons lead during his campaign.

Many countries are already dealing with the droughts, higher seas and catastrophic storms that climate change is exacerbating.

A failure to act now risks pushing us beyond a point of no return with catastrophic consequences for life as we know it, said Amjad Abdulla, chief negotiator for the Alliance of Small Island States, of the UN talks.

A key issue up for debate is how the fight against climate change is funded, with developed and developing nations still worlds apart in their demands.

Poorer nations argue that rich countries, which are responsible for the vast majority of historic carbon emissions, must help others to fund climate action.

Developed nations led by the US will want to ignore their historic responsibilities and will say the world has changed, said Meena Ramam, from the Third World Network advocacy group.

The question really is: how do you ensure that ambitious actions are done in an equitable way?Final results are expected on Saturday, one day after the voting for 55 seats in parliament.

Swaziland is tallying up results from parliamentary elections that opposition figures and many international observers called a sham process engineered by the countrys king to retain a tight grip on power.

Final results were expected on Saturday, one day after the voting for 55 seats in parliament. Political parties were not allowed to participate, and King Mswati III will select another 10 candidates for the 65-member assembly. Swaziland also has a 30-member senate that is appointed by the king and the assembly.

Mswati has ruled since 1986 following the death of his father, King Sobhuza III. The kingdom of more than 1 million people, about one third of whom were registered to vote, has high rates of unemployment and AIDS.

The people of Swaziland have been voting in elections that opposition figures say are undemocratic and should be boycotted, and therefore unlikely to usher in major changes.

History of harassment

Election candidates are handpicked locally by traditional chiefs, who are loyal to the king.

Mswati has been accused of harassing and jailing pro-democracy activists.

A new constitution was introduced in 2005, but analysts say it did not go far enough in addressing calls for reform.

The parliamentary elections are held every five years.

This monarchal democracy is a marriage between the traditional monarchy and the ballot box, all working together under the monarchy King Mswati III, of Swaziland.

Voting proceeded peacefully on Friday and there were long lines at some polling stations.

It was unclear whether the boycott was having an impact as some pro-reform figures had decided to participate in the election.

Election officials said they would announce the results on Saturday.

Mswati holds ultimate sway over the government: he can veto new laws, dissolve parliament and may not be sued or charged.

Opposition groups including the banned Pudemo party and South Africa-based Swaziland Solidarity Network have called for a boycott of the poll.

Mswati recently described the system as a monarchical democracy.

Its just a name so people can understand, said the monarch, educated at an exclusive English boarding school, to Reuters news agency in a rare interview.

The world really doesnt understand the Tinkhundla system, but everybody can understand monarchal democracy.

Its an English name. This monarchal democracy is a marriage between the traditional monarchy and the ballot box, all working together under the monarchy.

Reformist candidates

US-based rights group Freedom House said in a damning report this month that although the Swazi government boasts trappings of a modern state  the monarch chooses and controls all significant office bearers.

These must obey his commands at all times, the group said.

But the presence of a handful of reform-minded candidates has led some commentators to speculate that Swazilands royals may be preparing a more inclusive government that could bring gradual change.

Locked between Mozambique and South Africa, Swaziland remains one of the worlds poorest countries, though its monarch is said to be worth about $200m.

About 70 percent of the 1.2 million people live below the poverty line, according to the UN. At the same time, 31 percent of adults live with HIV or AIDS, according to a 2012 survey.

Mswati has 13 wives and last weekend announced his engagement to a 14th.

The queens each have their own palaces and are notorious for overseas shopping sprees.James Jeffrey

James Jeffrey is a freelance journalist formerly based in Addis Ababa. He continues to write about Ethiopia, the Horn of Africa and further afield for... more various international media. Follow him at his website: www.jamesjeffreyjournalism.com.Investors are on the edge of their seats waiting to see how much crude major economies will release from their reserves.During lockdown, hundreds of homeless people in Melbourne were moved into hotels. But what will happen to them now?Chad, a small, impoverished, landlocked nation just south of Libya and west of Sudan, at the advice of Libya, broke off relations with Israel 47 years ago. However, that is about to change, as Israels Prime Minister Benjamin (Bibi) Netanyahu will be flying to Chad at which time diplomatic relations will be restored. This is a landmark renewal because Chad is a Muslim majority nation (about 55% Muslim and 45% Christian and animist), and thus this event may be a turning point in the united rejection of Israel by the Muslim world. This trip will come on the heels of a visit to Israel by Chads President Idriss Deby and a month following an invitation for an Israeli diplomatic visit by Omans Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

This small shift in the Muslim galaxy of nations has important consequences for geopolitical realignment, but to understand it, it might be wise to go back to 2015 and the P5+1 Iran deal which the Obama administration underwrote, as well as Bibis speech before Congress in that year. In that speech, Bibi uttered that fascinating and timeless statement, The enemy of my enemy is my enemy. Here, he was referring to the 1000+ year enmity between the Sunni Muslims and the Shiite Muslims, but his statement was taken in the context of repudiating the proposed deal that had been worked out between the U.S. and Iran under the sage negotiations of the pompous, condescending twins President Barack Obama and Secretary of State John Kerry.

Clearly, while Israel was not friends with the Sunni Muslim world (most Muslim states are predominantly Sunni), Bibi announced his enmity towards Shiite Iran, the enemy of his enemy. The Iran deal presented an existential threat to Israel as well as providing Iran with unacceptable economic benefits, which had been denied Iran since 1979. It represented a dangerous and unhealthy rapprochement between the great powers of the world -- especially the U.S. -- and the country backing Israels sworn terrorist enemies, Hamas and Hezballah, not to mention the Revolutionary Guard units of Iran itself.

Despite the claim by the Obama administration that the Iran deal was preventing war with Iran as the sanctions up to that point were failing, Bibi understood that the deal was increasing the likelihood of a war in ten years once Iran could produce the needed nuclear materials. Or, a war might be incentivized even before 10 years as the influx of cash into Iran from Boeing and other multinationals that were denied access under the sanctions would increase Irans ability to produce and/or purchase missiles and other weapons of mass destruction.

At the time of Bibis speech, Faisal J. Abbas of Al-Arabiya, a Saudi-owned news channel, wrote an op-ed calling on U.S. President Obama to listen to Netanyahu on Iran. In the article, he wrote, "It is extremely rare for any reasonable person to ever agree with anything Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says or does However, one must admit, Bibi did get it right, at least when it came to dealing with Iran." It seems that this was a type of virtue signaling to the Sunni Muslim world. Bibi had spoken at the most prestigious platform in the world -- the U.S. Congress -- and repudiated the deal which was perceived in the Sunni Muslim world as an outrageous boon to their eternal enemy, the Shiites.

What happened between 2015 and the present? The most important event was the election of President Donald J. Trump. Trump campaigned hard against the Iran deal, and since he has been in office has restored sanctions against Iran and walked away from the deal. Trump and the electorate that put him in office understood that Obama's deal was not smart compromise, but was simply Munich-style appeasement. Additionally, in his 2017 state visit to Saudi Arabia, Trump concluded a $400 billion trade deal with the Saudis, and in his eight-point speech again lambasted Iran, with its Shiite ayatollahs and mullahs who have led the Saudi religious opposition for more than a millennium. This must have been a matter of great satisfaction to the rigid Sunni mindset so unwilling to live in peaceful accord with the Shiites as Protestants and Roman Catholics have learned to do in the West.

A fallout from this is a greater flexibility in dealing with Israel. Flexibility, not real friendship. Enmity towards any body politic comprised mainly of Christians and Jews is a given throughout Islam with some let up depending on economic circumstances or geography. For example, the Muslims of Indonesia and Malaysia are not as virulently anti-Christian, anti-Semitic, and anti-Israel as the Middle East Islamics, both Sunni and Shiite. Nevertheless, Israel now sees a small opening for building bridges that did not exist before this new rapport with the Sunni world.

During this latest visit to Israel by Chads President Deby, before agreeing to invite Bibi to Chad where Israel would get official recognition, it is reported that his team was very assertive in their demands [for military hardware] and even insinuated that they might link them to their decision on whether to renew diplomatic ties with Israel, the officials tell me. This rumored demand was not decided upon, but the Israeli prime ministers office did not deny that the demand had been made.

On the one hand, there is an incentive for Sunni countries to deal with the U.S. because of Trumps demonstrated greater closeness with the Sunni world via Saudi Arabia than his predecessor. At the same time, Trumps support of Israel has not escaped notice by the Muslim world. Since the Saudis feel comfortable dealing with Trump even though he is so pro-Israel, other Sunni Muslims are likely to feel that they can connect with Israel without losing prestige or honor within the sacred commitments they have towards Allah. Additionally, for countries like Chad that are primarily agricultural, water shortages are a problem, and Israel has developed incredible water technology with ways to enhance this scarce resource.

Further, during the past 15 years Chad has become an oil-producing country and has doubled its per capita GDP, but it is still one of the poorest countries on the face of the Earth. Its president has been in office since 1990. He was repeatedly re-elected to five-year terms, and finally term limits were eliminated which, unless he is assassinated, means that he will be dictator for life if he wants to be. One can only guess the extent of corruption within the government. With this sudden influx of wealth to Deby and the other bad government plutocrats ruling Chad, they also want weapons from Israel to defend their newly found black viscous treasure. One thing is certain, wherever there are wealth-producing resources, especially where access to other sources of wealth are absent, there will be attempts to take that wealth by force. Thus Israels advanced weaponry and technological savvy in many economic sectors are having the effect of dissipating some Islamic enmity. Israels survival as a beacon of Western Civilization in the backward Middle East is definitely enhanced by this development.For those of us who try to follow developments in the Russia Hoax, it's easy to get bogged down in the details and lose sight of the big picture: what I call the "theory of the case." Every investigation needs a guiding theory, even a hoax investigation, and a solid grasp of that overall case theory is a big help in coming to grips with the big picture.

Its useful to look at two aspects together: first, the Carter Page FISA, and second, Rod Rosenstein's memo authorizing the Special Counsel.

We've all heard the criticism of Rosenstein's authorization memo: it fails to cite a criminal violation, and so the appointment of Mueller as Special Counsel is illegitimate because the regulations governing the appointment of a Special Counsel require that a criminal violation be stated. But like so many things we think we know, this turns out not to be true at all.

For starters, the regulations only state that the Attorney General (or, in our case, the Acting AG) has to "determinethat criminal investigation of a person or matter is warranted." It doesn't state that the actual criminal violation has to be named in the memo. Naturally, the subject of an investigation would like to know what he's being investigated for, and just as naturally the investigator would like to keep the subject in the dark about as much as possible. What would be a reasonable sounding explanation for refusing to cite a criminal statute? It's right there in Rosenstein's memo:

The Special Counsel is authorized to conduct the investigation confirmed by then-FBI Director James B. Comey in testimony before the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence on March 20, 2017 .... [emphasis added]

And if we check out Comey's testimony, we discover that the investigation that he confirmed, what we know as Crossfire Hurricane, was a counterintelligence (CI) investigation. That means it's all classified, so nothing can be revealed publicly.

But wait, you say, a CI investigation isn't a criminal investigation, so where's the criminal violation, even if it's not named? This, it turns out, is another one of those things everyone thinks they know.

The classic CI type of investigation is espionage. Is espionage a criminal violation? You betcha. Therefore a CI investigation can simultaneously be a criminal investigation. It doesn't have to be, but it can be. All that's required, really, is a nexus with an intelligence service of a hostile foreign power. Russia, for example.

Well then, do we have any reason to believe that this particular CI investigation also involves a criminal violation. -- a reason, that is, beyond the inherent unlikelihood that Rod Rosenstein would edge out onto a legal limb and then carefully cut it off behind himself by failing to follow the regulatory requirements?

In fact we do have a reason, a good reason. The very existence of the Carter Page FISA is a warning siren that tells us that there is a criminal violation being alleged. We know this because the section of the FISA law that deals with obtaining FISA coverage on a US Person states that the FBI must provide probable cause to the FISA court (FISC) that the US Person

...knowingly engages in clandestine intelligence gathering activities for or on behalf of a foreign power, which activities involve or may involve a violation of the criminal statutes of the United States. [emphasis added]

That's it. There are some possible refinements, but this characterization suffices for our purposes.

The FBI, acting in connection with a Full Investigation, Crossfire Hurricane, obtained a FISA warrant against a US Person. Based on the clear statutory language, whatever the US Person was up to allegedly must have involved: 1) clandestine intelligence activities and 2) possible violations of one or more criminal statutes.

But, you ask, what possible evidence did the FBI have that Carter Page was engaging in "clandestine intelligence activity," much less in violation of some criminal statute? After all, wasn't he an FBI asset in New York working against the Russians?

According to the FBI, Page -- acting as Paul Manafort's intermediary -- flew to Moscow in July, 2016, and conducted secret meetings with movers and shakers in Russia, people like Igor Sechin, known to be well connected to Putin. We already knew that the Trump campaign had agreed to lift sanctions on Russia in exchange for Russia's release of DNC emails through Wikileaks -- a clear quid pro quo! And now it turns out that Page has flown to Moscow to discuss further sanctions concessions in return for "bi-lateral energy cooperation." It was all part of a "well developed conspiracy of cooperation" between Trump and the Russian leadership. That's some kind of clandestine activity!

And how do we know all this? I'm glad you asked. We know this through the good offices of one Christopher Steele, "formerly" of Britain's MI6, who consulted his sources and wrote it all up in report form so that it could later be conveniently compiled into a "dossier". But isn't all this unverified -- isn't that what Comey, Director of the FBI, told the House? Under oath? Well, what's a joke among friends, right? And, anyway, how were the FISC judges to know any better?

The point is, if we accept this narrative, then not only is Trump complicit in the clandestine intelligence activity of his agents, but there's a clear violation of a criminal statute: bribery. I'm not going to hold myself out as an expert on public corruption laws, but let's just take as one possible example 18 US Code 201 - Bribery of public officials and witnesses, 201(b)(2). There we read:

(b) Whoever

...

(2) being a public official or person selected to be a public official, directly or indirectly, corruptly demands, seeks, receives, accepts, or agrees to receive or accept anything of value personally or for any other person or entity, in return for:

(A) being influenced in the performance of any official act;

(B) being influenced to commit or aid in committing, or to collude in, or allow, any fraud, or make opportunity for the commission of any fraud, on the United States; [emphasis added]

It sure looks like the Trump team was conspiring to violate the Bribery law once they were elected. True, they weren't yet public officials, but that's just all the more reason to keep renewing the FISA every three months.

How's that for a theory of the case? Of course, as George Smiley would say, "it's just a theory," but it certainly seems to explain a lot. And there's more.

I've always maintained that the famous Trump Tower meeting on June 9, 2016, was an early attempt to ensnare the Trump campaign in a quid pro quo deal with Russians in which the Russians would supposedly provide "dirt" in exchange for sanction relief -- i.e., a clear exchange of a thing "of value" for action on official policy. Recall, this meeting took place before Carter Page's ill-timed trip to Moscow. It involved the Russian lawyer Natasha Veselnitskaya (who was allowed into the US only on the direct intervention, ultimately, of AG Loretta Lynch) and top Trump aides Jared Kushner, Don Jr., and Paul Manafort. Manafort was supposed to be directing the outreach to the Russian leadership. Veselnitskaya had claimed she could provide "dirt" on Hillary, but then inexplicably -- or maybe not -- began yammering about something called the Magnitsky Act.

Well, it so happens that the Magnitsky Act is actually all about sanctions on Russia. My take is that she was hoping to elicit some inquiry from the Trump aides that would show their willingness to discuss a quid pro quo -- bribery, a criminal violation. This would allow for a Full Investigation of the Trump campaign and even of Trump personally. Fortunately for Trump, Don Jr. cut the whole thing short.

End of story? Actually, no. One thing we keep hearing about with regard to people who are interrogated by Team Mueller is that they are repeatedly asked whether Trump himself knew about the meeting with Veselnitskaya. Did he know, do they think he knew. There are two ways to use this, neither of which add up to a criminal violation but either of which, if included in Mueller's final report (if it ever gets written) could cause serious damage to the Trump presidency.

The first would be that, if Trump can be claimed to have known about the meeting, then the Steele dossier narrative about Carter Page suddenly looks like a mission to sound out the Russians on what Veselnitskaya was talking about -- sanctions, and is there a deal we, the Trump team, could make on that?

The second, leaving Page and the dossier out of it, would be if Mueller can get someone, anyone, (say, Manafort in solitary) to say they even think that Trump was told about the meeting. In combination with Trump's earlier public outright denial (as opposed to the lawyerly written response "to the best of my recollection"), that assertion would be used to create the impression that Trump denied it because of guilty knowledge. That term would mean that he denied it because he really did seriously consider the bribery scheme, even though he may have rejected it. Of course that's why he can't just simply say, Yeah, Don Jr. told me, but so what? He'd soon find out so what, because toying with a bribery scheme is a lot different than toying with a Moscow real estate deal.

And so that brings us to the whole declassification controversy. Like everyone else, I want full declassification sooner rather than later. On the other hand, as Mark Penn has so trenchantly argued, Mueller's strategy seems to be to play this out in the court of public opinion. Viewed from that standpoint, I'd say that Trump deserves the best possible defense -- including in the court of public opinion. Therefore, I'm willing to trust his judgment on the proper timing for declassification, knowing that it's his life on the line and knowing that this could well be the key to an effective counter to the planned smear.

It's all just a theory.

Mark Wauck blogs on religion, philosophy, and FISA at meaning in history. In his earlier life he spent over two decades in the world of counterintelligence.Media madness surrounds us. Like a three-ring circus, Big Media has three main themes. The middle ring is Trump Derangement Syndrome. Everything and anything Trump does or says is outrageous, uncouth, unpresidential, stupid, racist, xenophobic, and any number of additional adjectives you can conjure up. The two side rings are Russia and climate change.

Today, the Trump and Russia rings are intertwined once again  but in a nonsensical way.

Russia, a country with a GDP less than a tenth of the U.S.'s, between the GDPs of Texas and New York, has become public enemy number one in the eyes of the media and the left. Mitt Romney was mocked when he called Russia our greatest geopolitical threat when he unsuccessfully ran for president in 2012. Hillary Clinton was considered a statesman when she called for a Russian reset in 2009.

Since Trump shocked the media and the left by winning the presidency against Madam Reset, an excuse for her second failed presidential campaign and laughable media prognosticating were necessary. This gave birth to the "Trump colluded with Russia to hack and steal the election from Mrs. Clinton" narrative.

Collusion has been a dry well, despite the best efforts of Robert Mueller and his merry band of partisans. Mueller is now reduced to prosecuting Trump associates over process crimes, tripping them up over what they recall saying to whom and when, or whom they might have forwarded an email to several years ago.

The media are quick on their feet, pivoting to a new narrative. According to NBC, "Trump's Russia dealings represented an enormous conflict of interest in 2016." In an article cowritten by hyperpartisan Chuck Todd, the lead sentence is, "Every time special counsel Robert Mueller speaks  through his court filings  he packs a punch."

Mueller's punches have been a bit wimpy. He indicted a bunch of Russian internet trolls who will never see the inside of a U.S. courtroom to face trial. His other indictments have been for process crimes or using tactics applied to Enron and former U.S. Senator Ted Stevens, most of which were overturned by the courts.

Chuck Todd should know about conflicts of interest. His wife earned millions working for the Bernie Sanders campaign and also worked with Jim Webb in his senatorial campaign. We won't hear anything about those conflicts.

The conflict Chuck Todd is worked up about is this: "Trump & Co. were seeking business deals with Russia well into June 2016, right before Trump officially became the GOP's presidential nominee."

That's it? Yet this will be the hot topic of discussion on all the Sunday gab-fests.

Before and while running for president, Donald Trump was a real estate developer  and highly successful. "Based on the financial disclosure report he filed last year, Trump appears to own or control more than 500 businesses in some two-dozen countries around the world," according to Time. Why not Moscow, too?

Remember that none of the smart set in politics and media gave Trump any chance of winning the nomination, much less the presidency. Video montages of such certain predictions, such as this one, are always fun to watch. Despite Trump's confidence and bravado, he must have known he was paddling upstream against a strong establishment current and would likely lose to the anointed Mrs. Clinton.

Why would he not continue running his business, given the likelihood at the time that come November 2016, he would still be private citizen Trump doing real estate deals?

After all, don't representatives, senators, and governors continue in their current roles while running for higher office?

Senator Obama ran for president  as did Senators McCain, Cruz, and Rubio. Governors Walker and Kasich ran for president, too. How many representatives run for senator? If they win, they have a new job. If they lose, they continue their current job.

Members of Congress have immense power at their disposal. Fundraising and allocation of campaign contributions, committee positions, pending legislation  all are potential benefits to them as they run for higher office, and all are potential conflicts if one wants to look hard enough.

Is the new expectation that one needs to officially quit his current job in order to seek a new one? Or does that apply only to outsiders, such as Donald Trump?

NeverTrump David French weighed in. After Trump, in April 2016, called for stronger relations with Russia, something the left was all in favor of during the decades-long Cold War, now it's a problem. French said, "Trump made those comments at the exact time when his team was allegedly trying to secure a business deal that could have netted Trump millions of dollars. This is no small thing. Trump's words mattered."

Again, so what? One can argue the merits of trying to have better relations with Russia. The Obama-Clinton reset button was clearly an effort to improve relations with Russia. Trump was just continuing the policies of his wise predecessors. It's interesting that the left now wants Trump to resurrect the Cold War they were so critical of. Perhaps if Trump presented Putin with a red reset button, all would be well.

But a businessman continuing to work, even as he runs for president, is hardly a criminal activity or a high crime or misdemeanor. It's simply a smart and competent man multitasking and keeping his options open, given the overwhelming consensus that he would never get anywhere near the Oval Office.

Lastly, if Trump wanted to give Putin a penthouse in the proposed, but never built, tower, another so what? Projects frequently comp freebies to VIPs, such as memberships and special privileges. That's called marketing. Give Putin the penthouse and all his wealthy buddies will want apartments in the tower as well. Again, smart business. And if someone objects, it never even happened. It was simply a proposal.

Like everything else in the "Orange Man Bad" theme, this Moscow Trump Tower too is a big nothing burger. But that won't stop the media from chasing their latest shiny object, continuing to make fools of themselves.

Brian C Joondeph, M.D., MPS is a Denver-based physician and writer. Follow him on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.Europe has a neurotic compulsion to repeat the past. This is bad news, because nobody wants to repeat five (count 'em!) East-West wars exploding out of Europe over the last two centuries.

But  the E.U. now has a better idea.

It wants European nations to surrender to the German-French axis without a shot being fired. "Countries must give up their sovereignty and join the one-world government," German chancellor Angela Merkel remarked generously the other day. The E.U. Times, of all places, remarked that "[n]o, this isn't something Adolf Hitler said many years ago."

Everybody in that part of the world knows who runs the E.U.: the Germans, fronted by the French. So when the charming Frau Merkel said that, most of her listeners filled in the rest of the story. But the Brits were not laughing.

Just to keep the historical record straight:

Napoleon beat the German-speaking provinces around 1800, arousing a century of vendetta wars. Otto von Bismarck used Prussian robo-militarism to invade Paris in 1871. WWI started as an enormous German-French meat-grinder, finally ended by the United States entering the war. In the 1920s and '30s, Hitler arose in revenge for WWI, leading to thirteen years of industrialized massacres of innocent human beings and ending with catastrophic Axis aggression in World War II, including the Japanese Rape of Nanking and all the rest. But...Europe's world wars did not end in 1946. They just moved to the Soviet Empire, which included East Germany. Korea and Vietnam were proxies for the U.S.-Soviet struggle.

And now we have Reich Number Six, called the "European Union." But the only "union" in the E.U. is the unelected ruling caste, which rules with an iron hand, while the left-out voters are getting sick and tired of the scam.

This may be why Emmanuel Macron, the German vassal in Paris, just called for an E.U. army  to use against NATO, of course. These little voters can't be allowed to resist Das Sechtse Reich (the sixth! in 200 years!), so we gotta get an army, now. Because both the U.K. and France have nuclear weapons, the E.U. army is bound to inherit nukes.

The European Union arose by pure bureaucratic mendacity, unrelieved autocracy and endless expansionism, taxation without representation, mercantile protectionism, and 17,000 top-down directives without a single popular vote.

The E.U. farce ran under the sucker labels of "peace," "love," and "money for all"  especially for illegal "refugees," who are guaranteed to vote socialist, because they are controlled by Turkey's Erdogan and his German imams.

Jean-Claude Juncker, the recent president of the E.U., justified that Muslim hijra (conquest by migration) as a tool to divide and conquer indigenous Europeans.

This is exactly what the Democrats are trying to do here. A socialist is a socialist is a socialist, and the biggest enemy of the United States is still autocratic Europe. I'm sorry  it's not just China, Russia, and Iranian jihad. This is a world of imperial aggression again, and if those ghostly old empires decide to gang up on us...watch out. They can't help themselves.

Today, Britain is the target of Europe's lust for vainglory and power, but as soon as Britain surrenders on Brexit, Italy, Greece, and Hungary will be next.

Sounds familiar?

Or, as Victor Davis Hanson warned about Monsieur Macron:

The French president suffers from the usual dreams of some sort of European "empire"  Caesar, Napoleon, Hitler ... Brussels? He probably envisions a new Rome steered by French cultural elites whose wisdom, style, and sophistication would substitute for polluting tanks and bombers, and who would play Greece's robed philosophers to Europe's Roman legions: "It's about Europe having to become a kind of empire, as China is. And how the U.S. is."

Two years ago, more than 17 million Brits voted to leave the E.U., but the last two years have been an imperialistic E.U. campaign to stop an independent Britain from ever rising again.

The biggest embarrassment is that Britain has allowed its own swamp to be penetrated and bought off by the Franco-German Axis.

In that process, the voters of the U.K. have been lied to and betrayed many times. The allegedly conservative prime minister, Theresa May, is now seen as the biggest back-stabber in the land, and it looks as though Labor will repeat her betrayal as soon as they get a chance.

I know you did not want to hear this. Neither did I. Welcome to the real world.One way or another, neither the Great State of Illinois nor the City of Chicago is going to be able to pay out all the pensions it has promised to retired and yet-to-retire state workers. As in California and some other jurisdictions, politicians promised future benefits to employees that would have to be paid for after their terms in office ended with no regard to the practicality of paying for it. That day of reckoning is almost upon Illinois and its largest city.

As the Chicago Tribune noted three days ago:

The average Chicago firefighter hired before January 2011 can retire at age 50 with just 20 years on the job. If that firefighter lives to full life expectancy, he or she will receive pension compensation worth more than $1.3 million. That firefighter will have contributed a small fraction of that total. Taxpayer money and investment returns make up the rest of the pension formula.

The problem is that full payment of these pension promises is required by the Illinois Constitution:

Article 13, Section 5: "Membership in any pension or retirement system of the State, any unit of local government or school district, or any agency or instrumentality thereof, shall be an enforceable contractual relationship, the benefits of which shall not be diminished or impaired." That language  drafted at the 1970 Illinois Constitutional Convention and strictly interpreted in 2015 by the Illinois Supreme Court  has been described by critics as a suicide pact. Eventually the inability to reduce benefits will drive the city of Chicago, the state of Illinois and hundreds of municipalities statewide, and their pension funds, into insolvency. The alternative? A tax burden so onerous, residents and businesses will continue to flee.

The Trib wants Mayor Rahm Emanuel to speak in favor of amending the state constitution, but is there political will to do this?

Another approach is that of Illinois state representative Jeanne Ives, R-Wheaton. Via Scott Reeder of the Dispatch-Argus:



Rep. Jeanne Ives.

The state entered into illegal contracts when it signed up employees for pensions over the last 40 years. While the state constitution says pensions of public employees cannot be diminished, the constitution also mandates that state legislators pass a budget they believe to be balanced and the constitution also says Illinois cannot take on more debt unless three-fifths of lawmakers agree. And yet, Ives contends lawmakers have been well aware that the budgets they have passed each year have not adequately covered anticipated pension obligations. Her contention is that this was a deliberate violation of the balanced budget clause of the state constitution and thus its "contract" with pensioners is void. She also says that promising payouts without funding them creates a debt obligation that should have received a super-majority vote each year, but didn't always.

Reeder notes that the Illinois Supreme Court likely would have no appetite for such a finding...

But if the case is somehow argued in the federal courts, this argument might prevail, especially with the conservative majority on the U.S. Supreme Court.

Fans of irony will note that inventive legal theories to find inconvenient laws unconstitutional have been a specialty of the left. This might be a bit of payback.

One way or another, Herbert Stein's famous law will be shown to be true: "If something cannot go on forever, it will stop."

Hat tip: Peter von BuolCivil society group Zero Extreme Poverty is pushing for an ambitious project to uplift one-million Filipino families from extreme poverty to self-sufficiency by 2030. Benjamin Abadiano, ZEP head secretariat, said the project dubbed ZEP Philippines 2030 had now reached 10,000 families nationwide, including informal settlers, farmers, fisherfolk, and indigenous peoples who are considered some of the most marginalized sectors in the Philippines. ZEP operations, which started in 2015, is a coalition of non-government entities aimed to reduce extreme poverty in the country by 2030 and has interventions and programs in 109 cities and municipalities from 33 provinces in 15 regions across the country. To create a sustainable and long-term plan to help extremely poor families become self-sufficient, ZEP pushes for multi-sector collaboration from various public and private organizations. Collective impact from the convergence of initiatives from ZEPs seven clusters helped achieve self-sufficiency and inclusive prosperity in the communities that they assist. The seven clusters are: Health, Education, Livelihood, Environment, Housing and Shelter, Agriculture and Fisheries, and Partnerships for Indigenous Peoples.All the interventions we bring to the communities that we partner with are based from their articulated needs and what they hope to achieve for their families, said Abadiano in a forum held recently in Pasig City. The issue on poverty is multi-dimensional. This is the rationale behind the collaborative aspect of our workbringing together the expertise and resources of different organizations to convey transformational change to these families and break the cycle of poverty, he added. The group is calling for non-government entities, corporate foundations and corporations, and other poverty alleviation advocates to join the different thematic clusters and enroll their programs to be part of the movement, or to bring ZEP to more cities and municipalities as local conveners. Individuals can also help by linking ZEP to potential partners or through pledges and donations. Whether big or small, everyone can help. We can successfully achieve zero poverty through the spirit of collaboration and collective impact. At ZEP, we believe that as Filipinos we can build on our diversity to be more inclusive and ensure that no family is left behind, said Abadiano.California senator Kamala Harris said at the "Know Your Value" conference that she is seriously weighing whether to run for the Democratic nomination for president in 2020 and would make a decision "over the holiday."

Harris has been prominently mentioned as a presidential candidate since her 2016 election.

NBCNews:

Harris, whose husband joined her in the audience, said she is keenly aware of the challenges a barrier-breaking campaign will entail. "Let's be honest. It's going to be ugly," Harris said. "When you break things, it is painful. And you get cut. And you bleed." Harris also expressed frustration over the slow progress of the Secure Elections Act, which she introduced in March, along with co-sponsor Republican Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma. The bipartisan legislation would give the Department of Homeland Security responsibility for ensuring secure elections and shoring up election infrastructure against cyber attacks, and would establish an independent advisory panel of experts to develop guidelines on election cyber security. Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell, who currently serves as the leader of the Senate, has not yet brought the legislation to the floor for a vote. Harris said she has been told that is at the White House's request. "First of all, let's be clear about the fact Russia did interfere in the [2016] election of the president of the United States," Harris told Brzezinski. "Flawed though it may be, we designed a beautiful system of democracy, and one symbol of that is that we have free and open elections. When a foreign government chooses to manipulate our democracy knowing that would compromise our strength and our perception of our strength, you would think leaders would say 'No, we are going to do everything we can to strengthen and to give ourselves the immunity we need to be free from that kind of manipulation.' Yet, it's not happening."

I think we should look carefully at any effort to federalize local elections  even if it's for cyber-security reasons. The bill Harris is talking about would give DHS wide latitude to interfere in state and local election infrastructure.

But what does Harris bring to the table? She certainly checks all the Democratic boxes; she's a woman, she's black with Indian ancestry, she's radically liberal, and she's tough and smart.

On the other hand, she's not one of the septuagenarians who are far better known and will almost certainly be better financed. She is currently considered a "second-tier" candidate along with the likes of Sherrod Brown and Beto O'Rourke.

But she excites many Democrats because of her sex and her race. She is also a pretty good public speaker.

At age 54, she's no spring chicken, but compared to Bernie Sanders, Hillary Clinton, and Joe Biden, she's just a kid. The national press will take her seriously from the start and will give her plenty of doting coverage.

She is an unknown in an already crowded field. How her California politics will play in Iowa and New Hampshire will be critical in determining if she has the staying power to compete for the top prize.The caravan has moved on, with Tijuana authorities now housing the 7,000 Central American migrants in a far more civilized compound than the squalid Superdome after Katrina-style housing they had occupied.

Daily Wire's excellent Ryan Saavedra has a report on what the place looked like, writing:

Caravan migrants from Central America that are stuck in Tijuana, Mexico are reportedly trashing the area, leaving behind bottles of urine and mountains of trash. The news comes as migrants are facing increasing backlash and negative attitudes from local Mexican residents, as the overwhelming majority of Mexican residents  73%  hold negative views towards the migrants, according to a poll from the Mexican newspaper El Universal.

The Fox News video Saavedra cited is here:

Tons of trash and clothes left behind by #caravan #migrants at the #TijuanaBorder shelter this morning. #Mexico police moved most of them about 15 miles away from the border yesterday to a different camp @FoxNews pic.twitter.com/bU6tEyEeo0  Kyle Rothenberg (@kylerothenberg) December 1, 2018

Any surprise the Tijuana people don't like this?

It rather speaks to a lack of social capital to see people unable to clean up after themselves. Tea Party groups always cleaned up after themselves, while Occupy protesters famously didn't. The failure to clean up points to a lack of ownership (even of one's own behavior), and a refusal to care about how one's behavior affects a community's surroundings. When a person just uses resources without caring about how he treats them, that is what early free-market economists called "the tragedy of the commons." People who own things keep them nice and maintained. People who don't and who expect others to bear the cost usually just let them go to hell. You see that a lot in places where people don't have property rights, as economist Hernando de Soto noted in "The Mystery of Capital," which speaks to the reality of being outsiders. And, well, caravan migrants are now Exhibit.

The caravan migrants, however, are guests in Mexico, so what also stands out here is that they don't seem to see themselves as guests, for whom polite behavior or clean habits are de rigueur. They see Mexico as a crossing point to that land where the streets are paved with gold and treat it accordingly. The trash suggests they don't care at all about how they're affecting their neighbors, and the waste is enough to make a greenie scream (if they weren't such hypocrites). Perhaps that's a function of the caravan migrants' arriving uninvited into Mexico, breaking down the southern border gate to enter without papers. Trashing a place you have that much contempt for is about par for the course.

Now let's go back to the waste: the fact that they have so much stuff to litter with suggests they aren't as poor as the press says they are. Based on the pictures, that level of garbage, mounds and mounds piled high, suggests a lot of money among the caravan migrants. What is the story behind leaving behind huge wardrobes of clothing in the mud as one packs up and heads for the bus to nicer quarters in the Tijuana hinterlands to await one's asylum claims? Do you throw away that many clothes in a year? How is it that they had that many clothes, and were able to travel more than 1,000 miles with them? The evidence of wealth, frankly, baffles me, given that these people are supposedly poor.

It underlines that most of the migrants are people who had money for a journey, brought lots of clothes with them, threw them out for unclear reasons, and now left them for the city of Tijuana to clean up. In short, they are from Central America's lower middle class, not its very poor, and that makes them run-of-the-mill migrants, not charity cases the press is insisting we take in for that reason.

Here's the last thing: in this garbage, what I see missing is social capital. Had this scenario happened with a U.S. Tea Party-type group, some of the men and women within would quickly organize a clean-up campaign and institute informal rules about trash disposal. Even the worst slums in Latin America have informal rules; I saw that myself in Caracas. This caravan group didn't, and nobody stepped forward  not the Pueblo Sin Fronteras leaders and not anybody else. Does it suggest they have much social capital, the bonds of trust needed to live with one's neighbors in peace, and the capacity for succeeding in America? Or does it suggest more garbage and mess for illegal alien-filled California cities such as Cudahy and Van Nuys? It sounds like the latter.

With that much trash and that much material to litter with, this group has shown what it's about and seems clearly unfit for assimilation or success in the U.S. The people want someone to take care of them, and the message is as clear as the Honduran flags they wave.

Image credit: Screen grab from Fox News.

Correction: The Superdome, not the Astrodome is where Katria victims were shelteredGoogle is looking to make eSIM more mainstream across carriers and devices through cooperation with OEMs and service provider support, the search giant revealed on Monday. To begin with, the company is expanding eSIM support more directly to US carriers via Pixel 3 and Pixel 3XL devices purchased directly from its web stores and plans to extend it further moving forward. Handsets purchased through either its carrier brand or the hardware store will feature an eSIM that should work with most major carriers in the country. Support for Sprint will be added over the next several months, as well as the UKs EE, Airtel and Reliance Jio for users in India, and Truphone and Gigsky elsewhere. Google is taking matters much further than that too through the creation of a new program that will enable any Android-certified OEMs to build eSIM-capable devices. That doesnt only include smartphones either. Instead, the company is aiming to help get all manner of devices from watches and wearables to laptops and Chromebooks ready for eSIM.

Background: Despite that eSIM can be traced back to 2013 and that the GSMA introduced guidelines for the technology back in 2016, eSIM has suffered relatively severe setbacks in the US. The technology is intended as a digital replacement to accomplish the device, carrier, and user-validation tasks accomplished by the plastic SIM cards phones and other devices currently rely on. Further delays occurred in early 2018 when Verizon and AT&T were both implicated alongside the GSMA in allegations of collusion in the setting of those standards. Sprint and T-Mobile were named in many reports too, as each company involved was effectively accused of ensuring that carriers could lock down eSIMs for devices in order to lock consumers in on a given network. The standards organization released a statement indicating that the decision was meant to help providers keep a handle on leased or subsidized subscriber smartphones. The allegations claimed that it would have allowed carriers to even lock any given customer to a carriers network. More recently yet another delay occurred in November due to uncertainty about how well the technology will work as it stands.

Google has unabashedly pursued the capability regardless of those setbacks and began enabling eSIM with the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. At the time, that capability really only made a difference for Project Fi customers in the US and may have been all but required because the service  now Google Fi  utilizes three different carriers. Two of those, Sprint and T-Mobile, are based on completely different carrier technologies. Googles decision to continue using eSIM with its more recently announced Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL flagships is almost certainly being undertaken for similar reasons.

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Impact: In spite of the delays, the carriers have remained mostly on track with regard to enabling eSIM compatibility and its expected to be turned on at some point this year. Googles own efforts are more likely to be meaningful on the device manufacturer side of the equation than anywhere else. The general approach would be to enable the use of eSIM and then wait for OEMs to get on board and ship devices that include support for the standards. The search giant is actively attempting to get involved in that portion of the process to speed things up and that might be a more effective approach given how widespread the use of Android OS has become.The Chair of the International Anglican Family Network, Bishop David Rossdale, looks back on a recent consultation event in Lusaka.

At the recent International Anglican Family Network (IAFN) consultation in Central Africa, we gathered delegates from Zambia, Malawi, Botswana and Zimbabwe to focus on what is happening to families in our age. It provided an opportunity to understand the pressures on the family which come from increased mobility, the reality of accessible technology and the erosion of past cultural norms in relation to authority, lone parents and divorce. Our time together was enriched by spending a day with 26 young Christians.

IAFN champions the family as the place where we belong, where we are given status and where our sense of identity is nurtured. Family is also where we learn how to live in harmony with others and in harmony with God.

The consultation drew on a theology of Gods searching out of that which is lost with a passion to be part of our future. We reflected on three aspects to Gods character  humility in making himself vulnerable; forbearance when we put our own agenda before his; perseverance in never giving up on us. We also considered how God uses his power to empower others.

This resonated with what we heard from the young people  they want to be able to share their experience and knowledge  particularly of technology  with older generations in the family, rather than their contribution being cast as immature. The consultation reflected that if Gods character is to shape families in todays church and world, then the way God empowers us all  young old, female and male  gives status and a sense of belonging within the family.

The consultation expressed three mains themes in its conclusion:Posted on: December 3, 2018 4:40 PM

[Episcopal News Service, by Lynette Wilson] Wildfires; hurricanes; four straight record-setting years of increasing temperatures; ocean acidification; sea-level rise; species loss; drought: all are made worse by climate change, fueling humanitarian crises as people are forced to flee their homes because of natural disaster or changes in their environment.

Earths climate is now changing faster than at any point in the history of modern civilisation, primarily as a result of human activities, warns the 1,656-page National Climate Assessment released 23 November by President Donald Trumps administration.

On Sunday (2 December), representatives from United Nations member states, including government, non-profit and faith-based organisations, gathered in Katowice, Poland, for the 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)  COP24  to hammer out a framework for implementing the Paris Agreement, which was reached in 2015 at the 21st conference.

Not only have all the nations of the world signed the Paris Agreement, I have seen the great religions of the world and the indigenous spiritual traditions also come together to seek the healing of the planet, said California Bishop Marc Andrus in an email to Episcopal News Service.

During Lambeth 2008 I listened with astonishment as bishops from India, West Africa, Australia, the United States and Sudan talked for just short of two hours about the environmental degradation and climate change effects that were already plaguing the dioceses they served, he said. Only in the last 10 minutes of the two hours allotted for conversation on two of the major issues that have been facing our church for decades did this group of bishops turn their attention to the second issue, so consumed were they by the present danger of climate change.

Andrus is leading an eight-member delegation representing Presiding Bishop Michael Curry at the conference in Poland, which runs to 14 December. This is the fourth delegation from the US-based Episcopal Church to attend the annual conference on climate change. The Episcopal Church began attending the conference in 2015 in France, where the Paris Agreement was reached.

In Paris, the Episcopal delegation made a spiritual case for climate action. At that conference, member countries, including the United States, reached a landmark agreement to set voluntary goals aimed at keeping global warming well below two degrees Celsius, which scientists predicted would be necessary to prevent a spiralling catastrophe of melting glaciers, rising sea levels and related weather extremes.

In Morocco in 2017, nations reaffirmed their commitment to cut carbon emissions. In Germany, in 2018, the process was thrown into doubt by President Trumps pledge to pull the United States out of the Paris Agreement. The US is the worlds largest economy and its second largest emitter of greenhouse gases, which trap heat in the atmosphere and make the planet warmer.

It was in June 2017, as part of his American First strategy, that Trump announced the United States withdrawal from the international agreement, saying it undermines the economy and places the United States at a disadvantage.

Since then, the We Are Still In movement has taken root, with more than 200 faith organisations signing on, including Episcopal churches. Still, the world is far from meeting the Paris Agreements target, which would require reducing the amount of carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere to pre-industrial levels. In fact, emissions continue to rise.

The conference in Poland is intended to finalise the rulebook for how the Paris Agreement will work. . . Thats important because if you dont have rules, it falls apart at this level of bureaucracy, said Lynnaia Main, the Episcopal Churchs representative to the United Nations.

Scientists agree that climate change is a global threat. The World Meteorological Organisation warns that, given current trends, warming could reach between three and five degrees Celsius by the end of the century. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which informs UN policy, issued a similarly dire report.

I have quoted many times in the past decade something that was said by the former archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams: It takes a global body to deal with global problems. An example of how this is true is the increasing crisis of environmental refugees, Andrus said.

Have you wondered what was the engine that drove the closely watched caravan out of Central America? According to a 30 October 2018, Guardian article, in addition to violence, organised crime and systematic corruption, climate change in the region is exacerbating  and sometimes causing  a miasma of other problems, including crop failures and poverty. The caravan comes mainly from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, it crosses Mexico and seeks asylum in the United States. . . The struggle of the people in the caravan is transnational, and I would say cannot be solved by any one country. We must work together for the good of all, Andrus said.

Environmental justice is one of the Episcopal Churchs three main priorities, along with racial reconciliation and evangelism. Over the years, its General Convention has passed numerous resolutions on the issue, whether supporting federal climate action or pledging to mitigate the churchs own impact on the environment.

The churchs 79th General Convention met in July in Austin, Texas, and passed 19 environmental resolutions, including support for a national carbon tax, carbon offsets for church-related travel, ocean health and Episcopalians continued participation in the Paris Agreement.

In 2016, the Episcopal Church was granted UN observer status, which allows members of the delegation to brief UN representatives on the Episcopal Churchs General Convention climate resolutions and to attend meetings in the official zone.

The continuity fostered by our COP delegations attendance at the annual UN Climate Change Conferences has a multiplier effect for our broader Episcopal and Anglican influence at the United Nations, said Main in a press release. Our actions in Katowice will strengthen a broader base of UN ministry that includes eradicating poverty through the Sustainable Development Goals, supporting migrants and refugees, defending indigenous peoples, mainstreaming gender and protecting rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.Posted on: December 3, 2018 4:31 PM

The former Executive Leader of the international Anglican mission agency CMS has been consecrated as a bishop in the Church of England. Bishop Philip Mounstephen will serve the Diocese of Truro in the south west of England. The diocese covers the county of Cornwall, where Philip has significant ancestral roots, as well as the Isles of Scilly and two parishes across the county border in Devon. He was consecrated on Friday at a service led by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, in Londons St Pauls Cathedral.

While now legally the Bishop of Truro, he will not formally take up his role until 12 January, when he will be welcomed to the diocese with a special service at Truro Cathedral.

It was a humbling experience to be there with so many family, friends and colleagues, old and new, Bishop Philip said about his consecration service. It gave me an incredible sense of place and purpose, being consecrated at St Pauls, which is such an iconic and historic cathedral.

I cannot say how excited I am to be moving to Cornwall now, and to follow Gods call to mission as the Bishop of Truro. It is undoubtedly a privilege, and I cannot wait to begin serving the diocese in Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly and our two parishes in Devon.

The Secretary General of the Anglican Communion, Dr Josiah Idowu-Fearon, preached the sermon during the service, in which he described himself as a product of CMS. He spoke of the vision of Truro diocese to grow, and said that his prayer was that its current 300 congregations would grow to many more.

The clues to church growth, he said, were the important of following Jesus  confessing Him [and] being like Him in character and ministry. He urged the new bishop to be like Jesus: be open and let people reach you.Posted on: December 3, 2018 4:50 PM

The Nippon Sei Ko Kai (NSKK)  the Anglican Communion in Japan  is to host an International Forum for a Nuclear-Free World. The forum will be held in Sendai, with field-work in Fukushima  scene of the March 2011 disaster in which a massive earthquake and tsunami caused a number of explosions in the towns coastal nuclear power station, leading to widespread radioactive contamination with serious health and environmental effects.

Every diocese in the NSKK is participating in the conference, and representatives from Anglican Communion provinces with strong ties to Japan are also sending representatives: this includes people from South Korea, the Philippines, Taiwan, the US, Canada, and the UK. All are united in the hope for a world free from nuclear hazards and threats, the NSKKs Executive Committee said in a statement.

Already, eight years have passed since that fateful day in March 2011 when a massive earthquake and tsunami struck Japan, devastating numerous communities in the north-eastern part of the country, the statement said. Today, rebuilding work continues in many of those communities, allowing residents to return and reclaim their hometowns.

As members of the Executive Committee of the International Forum for a Nuclear-Free World, we are deeply grateful for all the aid and assistance provided by so many to facilitate this. The Anglican Communion in Japan has also been active, helping and walking together with those affected by the disaster.

In 2012, the NSKKs General Synod adopted a resolution  In search of a world free of nuclear power  Stance of the Anglican Communion in Japan on nuclear power  in which they called for an end to nuclear power. Since then, the Church has initiated a number of activities to realise its objective. Next years international conference is one such initiative. It was called for at the Churchs 2018 General Synod.

During the Forum, which will run from 27 to 31 May 2019, participants will visit the vicinity of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, and hear a keynote lecture from Professor Miranda Schreurs, a key figure in the German governments shift to free the country of nuclear power. Through discussion and the sharing of ideas and expertise, the participants will talk about specific action they can initiate together to create a nuclear-free world.

The executive committee statement said: We earnestly hope this Forum will launch major, lasting initiatives across national and other borders for a world free from nuclear power!Authorities on Monday reminded foreign and local air travelers to declare their money at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to avoid any inconvenience or prevent their money being confiscated. Government agents late last Friday intercepted a huge amount of undeclared foreign currency brought into the country by Korean tourist Kim Junheon. Kim arrived in Manila on board a Philippine Airlines flight from Hong Kong with an undeclared cash amounting to HK$3.828 million (about P25 million in Philippine peso) in his possession. The foreigner was about to exit the arrival area with his silver carry-on bag when Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service agent Tomas Maranan stopped him. Maranan directed the tourist to place his luggage to the portable X-ray scanning machine. It was then that bundles of Hong Kong dollars were found. Customs officials said bringing in or out of foreign currencies in the Philippines is allowed but must be declared when it exceeded $10,000 using the foreign currency declaration form upon arrival or prior to departure from the countrys airports. NAIA port district collector Carmelita Talusan said Kim violated provisions of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (Republic Act 10863) in relation to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Manual of Regulations on Foreign Exchange. The Korean national could only get what is authorized by law which is $10,000 or its equivalent in local currency while the rest of his money will be seized in favor of the government. Kim, through his lawyer, said he would appeal the authorities decision to the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas.Moreover, Kims unidentified lawyer told Customs officials that his client had declared his money. But the authorities said Kim declared his cash only after he was caught. Three years ago, Customs men also arrested a Japanese businessman for not declaring the 53 million yen found in his possession upon his arrival at the airport. Arrested was Yoshiaki Takahashi, 50, a resident of Chiba, Japan. Customs examiners found the money (P21 million) inside a paper bag inside his luggage upon routine inspection. The government has been consistent in its vigilance in protecting the borders. The NAIA Customs has a record-breaking 27 drug bust in a span of six months and have stopped several attempts of illegal wildlife trade, concealed and misdeclared goods. In October 2017, Customs beefed up its anti-smuggling capacity by adding 19 new X-ray machines in the three terminals of NAIA.Editor-in-chiefThe speed and noise that characterise the times we are living through would seem to prevent it, but whenever you manage to distance yourself a little, you get shivers down your spine. Once again in history, Spain is split between the forces of reaction and the forces of change. Once more, progress and accord seem impossible: both sides are digging their heels and moderates are being hushed up. The stakes are high and Spain is gambling with the downfall of the democratic regime which finally appeared well-established within the European framework. Built on the back of fear and amnesia, the political transition [following Francos death] was a historical exception to violence. But now the Spanish right seems determined to culminate the regression borne out of the court ruling against the Catalan Statute, and progressive Spain has ground to a halt and feels inadequate in the face of the threat posed by the heirs of the Franco regime. A majority of Spains public opinion has yet to decide whether to push aside the historical hurdles unabashedly, and it lacks the courage to take a step forward.

Intransigence, the flat-out refusal to accept diversity and to agree on a stable framework for Catalonia, is about to rattle the entire Spanish constitutional edifice. By blatantly denying many Catalans their right to be heard, Spain is becoming increasingly mired in swampland, with its institutions getting bogged down. The Spanish government dare not talk to Catalonia, Madrids legislature has ground to a halt and is unable to pass the budget, while the judiciary makes decisions that question the countrys legal security and undermine its standing in the eyes of European justice. The image of impartiality and fairness of the courts is also constantly being eroded by those very decisions.

Now the impotence and also the peaceful determination of Catalonias political prisoners is being expressed through their dire decision to start an unlimited hunger strike. Those who believe that dialogue should always prevail over authoritarianism when democratic demands go unheeded are moved and struck by this news. Responding to self-determination demands with violent threats would not be an acceptable recourse for Catalan society, as non-violence is the main asset of the pro-independence camp. That is why a hunger strike is the last resort. Putting your life on the line to get the international community to pay attention to your cause is for Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Turull to decide. Their goal is to denounce the fact that their appeals before Spains Constitutional Court remain unresolved with no date in sight, which means they cannot take their case to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). This prolongs pre-trial detention, which becomes an extended form of revenge whose sole purpose would appear to be breaking the separatist grassroots and political leaders on a psychological and human level. The decision to begin a hunger strike was preceded by a lengthy, intense reflection on the part of the political prisoners in Lledorners and those outside. The latter have implored them not to risk their lives. A hunger strike can have unforeseeable effects on ones mental and physical health. Experts have explained that, after the first few days, you stop feeling hungry and your body becomes weaker as it progressively adapts to the new situation. There are risks from day one, but twenty-one days is generally agreed to be the time beyond which major, permanent effects are experienced.

Internal debate among the prisoners

Sanchez and Turulls decision will get political and human rights groups to focus on Catalonia again. Needless to say, it is a grave, personal choice for both prisoners and Catalonias National Assembly have already announced their support on the streets. A new, far-reaching scenario has opened up.

The internal debate in the Lledoners facility [where the male prisoners are held] and their two female colleagues, Carme Forcadell and Dolors Bassa, has gone through a number of phases. The decision was debated in terms of its seriousness and its power to influence the Constitutional Court and the Spanish government. Some prisoners considered it and then dropped the idea because of the associated physical weakness ahead of the trial. They worry they wouldnt be fit to defend themselves when the trial kicks off, presumably in January next year.

This weeks 40th anniversary of the Spanish Constitution should be a hard pill to swallow for the Spanish State. Two elected MPs, one a grassroots leader (Jordi Sanchez) and the other a politician who was jailed halfway through being voted president in parliament (Jordi Turull), will be on hunger strike to demand guarantees of a fair trial. It is not about expecting favouritism, but pushing their appeals through the Constitutional Court which may drop or dismiss them so they can turn to the European court. What other democracy in Europe could afford to do nothing, faced with such a grave situation? Spain is progressively wiping away the years of democratic progress as part of the European club. So far, justice and the monarchy are in a crisis. Refusing to handle the Catalan issue politically may end up bringing down the entire institutional edifice.When Abdullah Al-Sayed was running the Middle East operations of the worlds largest executive jet company, he had a constant concern: What organisation could provide him with the type of ground-based services to match the quality that his aircraft were providing in the air?

When I was CEO of NetJets Middle East, I was always asking my team: Do we have a company to which we can sub-contract, so we can hand over all the flight operations to them? We couldnt find such a company.

Perhaps no surprise, then, that in 2010, when Al-Sayed left NetJets, he decided to set up Nexus, his own flight services company. People said I was crazy, he admitted. They doubted that any organisation would trust his new company with their flight operations services.

The breakthrough came with a major oil company, which was known to have high standards and against which Nexus benchmarked itself. I said to them: Just give us a try and they gave us the opportunity. The relationship lasted for several years and has recently been renewed.

Jeddah-based Nexus does not own aircraft itself, but it manages them for others and handles every aspect of ground-based flight services, from flight-planning, dispatching and in-flight catering to obtaining visas, arranging ground transportation and maintenance.

It does this with a staff that has grown from seven to 700 in eight years and which now operates from 14 locations in 11 countries. Some are purely representative offices, but seven  Jeddah, Dammam, Mumbai, Kigali, Houston, Chengdu and Manila  provide the full range of services.

One region currently not covered by Nexus is Latin America, and that is something that Al-Sayed hopes to remedy shortly. We are looking at it right now. Weve gone to Mexico, Brazil and Colombia and are still evaluating those, he said.

The challenge is always finding the right local partner who can understand our business and be with us for the long term. All our partners outside the Middle East have been with us for a long time. This is especially important now, as weve built a brand and image, so you become more careful about selecting people and learning about their previous business relationships.

Although the Middle East has an image of high-value individuals flying around in their luxurious privately owned business jets, Al-Sayed believes that this is going to change.

I believe that the trend in private aviation is very strongly into fractional ownership and block charters, rather than individuals owning their aircraft, he said. This follows the path that has been marked out by NetJets: I believe that if companies like NetJets and VistaJet push more aggressively into the Middle East, the needs there are tremendous.

Also, he feels that, whereas Arab executive aircraft owners previously looked for luxury, today there is a move towards the western pattern of using them as business tools, to allow senior personnel to conduct their business more efficiently by travelling faster than the service provided on commercial airlines.

Although Nexus is best known for the flight operations side of the business, it is increasingly focusing on training future aviation professionals at its academies in Saudi Arabia, Africa and China. The academies cover all aspects of the ground services for which Nexus is known, including safety training, crew resource management, maintenance and flight dispatcher and scheduling service.

Simulators for pilot training, meanwhile, are located at Kigali in Rwanda and Chengdu in China.

The academies have become the bread and butter of the groups activities, said Al-Sayed. Not only are their overheads relatively low compared to the flight operations services side of the business, but training and development are becoming priority number one for many regions, such as China and Africa.

One of Nexus advantages over rivals in the field, he believes, is its flexibility in tailoring training courses to the needs of individual clients  commercial organisations, government ministries or air forces: Other companies are too inflexible. They have one training model. If we ever get like that, it will be the beginning of the end.

This flexibility extends to the aircraft under Nexus management. Some rivals have their logo

all over their clients aircraft, even down to the cutlery and the cabin crews uniforms. Passengers in aircraft managed by Al-Sayeds company, however, will find it difficult to locate any trace of Nexus presence. We even tailor the uniforms of staff to the colours of each aircraft  and sometimes to the taste of the owners wife. As one client said: I have to feel that its my aircraft, my home.

Nexus is heavily involved in supporting the Saudi Arabian Governments efforts to diversify its economy by training Saudi nationals in the skills necessary to run its flight operations.

The government has many initiatives. They subsidise your training if youre training Saudis. We request people who would be suitable for certain positions. The government send us CVs, we interview the applicants and choose the most suitable. All we then have to do is tell the government that these individuals are working for us and they will pay their salary for one year. After that year, we have the ability to keep them, or ask them to leave.

Its a very smart initiative; if the individual is good and we keep him, he already understands our system. Its good for him and its good for us.

One added incentive for Saudi nationals paying their own fees at Nexus, rather than having them paid by a company or the government, is that the three best-performing self-funded students are guaranteed jobs. This encourages them to really focus on their studies.

It is also one reason why Nexus exceeds the Saudi Governments requirements for the percentage of Saudi nationals employed.

One of the biggest opportunities open to Nexus, believes Al-Sayed, will be the growth of religious tourism. Numbers of pilgrims coming to Saudi Arabia for the Haj and Umrah have been rising steadily in recent years and this growth is forecast to be maintained, or even accelerate, in coming years.

In 2017, more than 13 million pilgrims came to the kingdom and the Saudi authorities are targeting 30 million by 2030.

This means you need a huge transport system and aircraft will become very important. I believe religious tourism will be one of the biggest contributors to our economy in Saudi Arabia, said Al-Sayed.

Pilgrim traffic is the only sustainable business you will never have to worry about or advertise. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain  they all have to advertise to get you to fly there, but Haj and Umrah is one location where you dont need to persuade anyone to come to.

Nexus is working on its business plan to tap into this stream of traffic. It hopes to submit an application in 2019 to the Saudi aviation regulator, the General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA), for a Part 121 licence for unscheduled air services to allow it to transport pilgrims.

Current plans call for the airline to start operations with four narrow-body jets, with Egypt, Iraq, Nigeria, India and Pakistan the new carriers initial destinations. All five countries are currently under-served by charter providers, said Al-Sayed.

The aircraft will be pre-owned, leased models to reduce operating costs. Nexus is weighing up the merits of Boeing and Airbus models, with financial calculations at present favouring the European manufacturer.

Nexus hopes to start pilgrim flights by late-2019; probably under a name other than that of the parent company.

Consultants who have been analysing Nexus business have said that it will be unusually quick to get into the air, as its existing flight service organisation is already fully staffed and in place. They said: Youre not going to have to spend money to hire staff, because they already exist.

Similarly, the company has prior experience of running an airline in the shape of RwandAir. Talking about commercial aviation in the region more generally, Al-Sayed said that, as with executive aviation, Saudi airline passengers were now adopting many of the same traits as their North American and European counterparts, with ticket prices and timetables becoming increasingly important factors.

That constant flow of business from pilgrims is also one of the factors that Nexus believes will help it launch its initial public offering (IPO) in the near future. Contracts with governments and oil companies can eventually expire, but not the demand for transport to Islams holiest shrines.

An IPO office has been established within Nexus, staffed by a senior member of one of the worlds leading banks, a human resources policies and procedures specialist, and, on the technical side, an aviation specialist.

The purpose-built crew terminal is fitted with cutting-edge baggage handling systems, electronic check-in kiosks and security and customs scanning equipment. Serving the burgeoning requirements of flight crews and Oman Air Operations Team, the Crew Reporting Centre eliminates the need to access the Departure Terminal at the airport.

The airline will provide user-friendly technology and convenience for its 691 pilots and approximately 1757 cabin crew during the check-in and briefing processes prior to boarding their flights. Operating crews will be provided with up-to-date flight information such as flight plans, weather reports, destination information, service protocol and passenger data, for review in dedicated briefing areas within the premises.

Abdulaziz Al Raisi, Oman Airs chief executive officer, said: We are extremely proud to open this spectacular facility, which has been designed and built to provide our operating crew with the latest technological advances and the utmost convenience. Providing Oman Air with a much-needed facility as it caters to the increasing demand for air travel in the region, this Centre will allow us to pursue further opportunities for growth.

The Crew Reporting Centre will allow us to meet the challenges of an ever-transforming business and to meet the phenomenal growth of both Oman Air and Oman well into the future. This is particularly important in the period following the opening of the new Passenger Terminal in Muscat International Airport.Arabian Aerospace - Show Business Daily will be published on all three days of the show with its print version distributed to all visitors, VIPs, exhibitors and sponsors attending the event accompanied by its digital version which is emailed each morning to over 25,000 online readers of Arabian Aerospace.

Show Business Daily is a vibrant, easy to read and intelligently written daily bringing together the highlights from each day, news headlines and stories, deals being signed, exhibitor interviews and features and run by an onsite award winning editorial team of international renowned aerospace journalists and photographers, editors and designers.

Saudi International Airshow, which will open from the 12th to the 14th of March 2019 at Thumamah Airport, Riyadh, will be the first aviation & aerospace exhibition of its kind in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and will welcome exhibitors and delegates from across the world. Thumamah Airport will be dedicated solely to the exhibition.

Saudi Airshow will host a mix of business, general, commercial aviation and aerospace exhibitors on a 100,000 sqm static area which will accommodate more than 100 aircraft ranging in size from single-engine and executive jets to commercial wide-body aircraft.

The show will offer chalets located next to the runway to enable manufacturers to present their entire range of aircraft and to facilitate demonstration flights. In addition, three exhibition halls will host more than 500 booths and international pavilions where exhibitors will showcase a full range of aviation and aerospace services and products.The participating delegation under the United Arab Emirates National Pavilion included officials and members from Tawazun Economic Council and the Emirates Defense Companies Council (EDCC).

Sultan Abdullah Al Samahi, acting general manager of the Emirates Defence Companies Council stated that the nation-wide participation from the United Arab Emirates Pavilion reflects the deep and brotherly relations between the UAE and its sister country, Egypt, under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed President of the UAE and His Excellency President Abdel Fattah Al-Shesisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Al Samahi said that the International Defense Exhibition (IDEX 2018) represents a substantial opportunity for national defense companies to promote their products and services that have become comparable to their international counterparts in terms of quality and prices. Al Samahi additionally stated Tawazun goal of enabling the development of the industrial defense and security sector which in turn, contributes to the development of a suitable economy for the United Arab Emirates.

The National Pavilion of the United Arab Emirates welcomed 17 UAE-based companies specialising in the defence and technology industries, defence and security.The late founding father of the UAE dedicated his life and leadership to unify and shape a better collective future for the nation, and todays formation flight is a soaring display of unity as all four carriers showcase the UAEs aviation success story to the nation and world.

The flypast - a world-first and a UAE civil aviation milestone - involved over 11 aircraft: a flydubai Boeing 737 MAX 8 (Zayed 1), an Air Arabia Airbus A320 (Zayed 2), an Etihad Airways Airbus A380 (Zayed 3) and an Emirates Airline Airbus A380 (Zayed 4), as well as seven Al Fursan aerobatic display jets from the UAE Air Force. All of the commercial aircraft within the formation were emblazoned with Year of Zayed decals. This is also the first time this unique combination of aircraft types fly in formation.

The aircraft were commanded by Captain Adrian Smith from flydubai, Captain Nadhem Al Hamad from Air Arabia, Captain Richard Dyson from Etihad Airways and Captain Abbas Shaban from Emirates Airline. The Al Fursan team was led by Lieutenant Colonel Nasser Al Obaidli.Last November 20, 2018, an anonymous source posted unverified screenshots of an alleged conversation containing various slurs and highly offensive statements against different sectors including women, LG8TQ1A+, Lumads, and Muslims. We the student members of the Upsilon Sigma Phi strongly condemn all acts of discrimination specially against these sectors. Many student leaders who are members of our Fraternity have time and again led and worked with organizations and individuals to fight for equality. We will continue to do so because this is what we stand for. Unfortunately, these postings are being attributed to a few students who are members of the Upsilon Sigma Phi. The student members of the Fraternity take these accusations very seriously and will not tolerate members espousing such backward, misogynistic, and discriminatory views. In light of these recent events, we have conducted an initial investigation on the matter, and we will relay to the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs (OVCSA) all information at our disposal. We will unconditionally cooperate with the efforts of the OVCSA not only in gathering facts but in ensuring accountability consistent with the dictates of due process.We sincerely empathize with everyone affected by the postings. This is why, during the conduct of the investigation, we appeal for sobriety. We wish not to further aggravate any harm that may have been caused by the postings. It is unfortunate that the postings carne in the heels of our Fraternity's Centennial Anniversary last November 18. It appears that there is a concerted effort to besmirch the reputation of our Fraternity during this momentous celebration. In our 100 years of existence as the oldest fraternity in Asia, our members have fought hand in hand with UP students for the rights of women, LGBTQ1A+, Lumads, Muslims, and other oppressed sectors. The doctrines and principles we stand for, including our imperatives of leadership and service, impel us no less than to fight for these rights and not to contribute in any manner to hate and discrimination.YEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Prosecutor General of Armenia Arthur Davtyan has submitted a motion to parliament requesting to strip MP Aram Harutyunyan of immunity and enable the prosecution to launch criminal prosecution and arrest him.

In a statement, the prosecutors office said that an investigation has gathered sufficient evidence to incriminate Aram Harutyunyan of bribery. The prosecutors office said that back in 2008, when the lawmaker was serving as minister of nature protection, and also as chairman of a commission granting mining-related permits , Harutyunyan demanded a person, whose identity hasnt been disclosed, to pay him 14,000,000 USD in a bribe in order to get a license for exploration and exploitation of 10 non-ferrous metal ore locations in four different provinces of Armenia. According to the prosecution, Harutyunyan received the bribe.

6,000,000 dollars was given to the then-minister in cash from 2008 January to November, while the remainder was transferred to his bank account, the prosecution said. All transcations were made through mediation.

Harutyunyan later laundered the money through fraudulent bank accounts, the prosecution said.

Two people have been charged for assisting bribery. Two others are wanted for the same charges and an arrest warrant has been issued.

At the same time, the prosecution said that the investigation has revealed that Aram Harutyunyan is the shadowy owner of major real estate in Yerevan, including homes, apartments, a 7-storey building, a restaurant complex, a public-significance building worth 427 million drams. He also owns more than 10 farming land areas in the province of Kotayk, the prosecution said.

The prosecution said it has sufficient evidence and grounds to believe that the lawmaker might attempt to obstruct the investigation and that there is a risk that he may try to hide from justice.

Prosecutor General Arthur Davtyan filed a motion to Speaker of Parliament Ara Babloyan to strip Harutyunyan of immunity.

Edited and translated by Stepan KocharyanYEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Increasing the export volumes of agricultural goods is going to be one of the key tasks of the Armenian government in 2019, acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said during the pre-election campaign of Im Kayl (My Step) alliance in Vedi town, reports Armenpress.

During 2018 the export of agricultural goods from Armenia increased by 32 million USD. This is also thanks to the work of our compatriots of Vedi, the Ararat province in general. But increase of this volume next year is more important, and this is going to be one of the key tasks of our government. Our agriculture mostly depends on weather conditions, but the technologies of the 21st century enable us to provide certain amount of crop, he said.

The acting PM noted that the local anti-hail stations operate effectively if they are used correctly.

Early parliamentary elections in Armenia will take place on December 9. The election campaign launched on November 26 and will end on December 7. 11 political forces are participating in the elections.

Edited and translated by Aneta HarutyunyanDo it yourself if you can We accept  in principle  that private equity can deliver (somewhat) excess returns over most other asset classes. But there are a lot of qualifications attached to that, and most of them are very relevant to whether and how pension funds should invest in private equity.Newly-appointed Chief Justice Lucas Bersamin on Monday appealed to his colleagues and court officials to help him in instituting reforms in the judiciary. During his first flag-raising ceremony as chief magistrate, Bersamin vowed to address perennial problems in courts, but appealed for cooperation from court workers and personnel. I have no promise to you except that I will continue to serve with all sincerity in my heart. I intend also to address our persistent problems in the lower courts, the new chief justice said. I ask you to welcome me, to love me, to support me, to help me in my 11 months. Its just a short period so just bear with me), Bersamin added. The new top magistrate was greeted by a big banner and colorful balloons during his first flag-raising ceremony after appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte last week vice retired Chief Justice Teresita Leonardo-de Castro. Bersamin branded himself as an accidental chief justice, recognizing that he is not the most senior among the justices and many court personnel were expecting someone else appointed as chief justice. I know that you have expected maybe another individual to be appointed to this office. I am not apologizing for myself, I am not apologizing for the President. I am here because I was appointed, so that should stop all speculations from within and without regarding whether Justicr Bersamin deserved to be chief justice or not, he said. There may be someone more senior than me now sitting in the Court, but at age 69, I can look back and tell you that I have 32 years behind me in this business, Bersamin stressed. He did not name who he was referring to, but was obviously referring to Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, who was bypassed for the chief justice post for the second time. Carpio is the most senior member of the Court, having been appointed as associate justice in 2001. But Bersamin is the longest serving magistrate of SC in the judiciary with 32 years of experience in the courts or since 1986. Malacanang already explained that Carpio was not picked by the President because of his earlier decision not to apply for the chief justice post in deference to his position against the ouster of chief justice Maria Lourdes Sereno via quo warranto last May. Carpio said he did not want to benefit from Serenos ouster, whom he had voted against, but decided to apply for the post after De Castros retirement last October because he believed that the vacancy was no longer questionable. But Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said the President did not buy such explanation from Carpio, saying the vacancy from De Castros retirement also stemmed from Serenos ouster. Carpio was not present during the flag-raising ceremony. After addressing the seniority issue, Bersamin asked court personnel to move forward and help him put up a good image of the judiciary. We shouldnt think of the past anymore because thats irrelevant already). This is a new beginning, I will have continuity, he said. Meanwhile, Bersamin vowed to implement reforms in the judiciary, including the strict implementation of ban on mobile phone use among court personnel during office hours. Let us avoid using cellphones while on duty. Its shameful, cellphones cannot sustain our living. I want to bring back use of telephone and confiscate cellphones. This may be petty, but its a good start), he told Court workers. Bersamin said the issue on the image of judiciary and perception of the SC from the lower courts also remain a serious concern that should be addressed. The biggest problem is the misconception that the SC doesnt care about lower courts and Id like to correct that, he said. Bersamin said he will soon meet judges, officials of the Philippine Judicial Academy, members of the Judicial and Bar Council, employees associations and other officers of the judiciary to discuss other reform matters. As this developed, the Supreme Court has reorganized its three divisions following the appointments of Bersamin and Associate Justice Rosmari Carandang. As chief Justice, Bersamin becomes the chairman of the SCs First Division from his previous post as chairman of the third division. During the brief stint of his predecessor, retired Chief Justice Teresita Leonardo-de Castro, Bersamin had served as working chair of the Courts First Division when he was the fourth most senior magistrate of the 15-member bench. Apart from Bersamin, the Courts First Division will be composed by Associate Justice Mariano del Castillo as working chair, and Associate Justices Francis Jardeleza, Noel Tijam and Alexander Gesmundo as members. As chief justice, Bersamin will also sit as chair of the Presidential Electoral Tribunal that will resolve the election protest of former senator Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. against Vice President Leni Robredo. Carpio, meanwhile, returns to his post as chairman of the SCs second division after serving as acting chief justice and acting chair of the first division during the vacancy in the top judicial post. He is joined this time by Associate Justices Estela Perlas-Bernabe, Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa, Jose Reyes Jr. and Carandang. Carpio has been chairman of the second division and second most senior under three chief justicesthe late Chief Justice Renato Corona, ousted Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno and De Castro.He will also remain as chair of Senate Electoral Tribunal. Associate Justice Diosdado Peralta, meanwhile, will chair the third division, with Associate Justices Marvic Leonen, Andres Reyes Jr. and Ramon Paul Hernando as members and Carandang as acting member. Peralta also remains chairman of the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal. The SC still has one vacancy. In a related development, Bersamin designated Court Administrator Midas Marquez as spokesman of the Supreme Court. Aside from being a spokesman, Marquez will act as chief of the SCs Public Information Office, which he will concurrently serve as court administrator. Ive known Midas for a while now and I need his help to burnish the image of the Supreme Court, he told reporters. In introducing Marquez, Bersamin also appealed to the media to be accurate in reporting and likewise report on positive news in the Court. Bersamin lamented how he himself became subject of attacks in the media by some quarters he did not identity. Marquez previously served as spokesman of the High Court under two former chief justices Reynato Puno and the late Renato Coronaprior to his appointment as SC court administrator. I cannot say no to the Chief Justice, Marquez said, when asked why he decided to again speak for the Court. Marquez takes the place of lawyer Theodore Te, who served as SC spokesman for six years during the term of ousted chief justice Maria Lourdes Sereno. Atty. Te has returned to full-time teaching at the UP College of Law after resigning from his post last Sept. Marquez rose from judicial ranks and has been with the SC for over 27 years. He started his career in the SC in 1991 as a law clerk for several justices, including retired Associate Justice Abraham Sarmiento, Senior Justice and former Philippine Judicial Academy chancellor Ameurfina Melencio-Herrera, and retired Senior Justice Josue Bellosillo, and rose from the ranks and appointed court administrator in 2010. He has since spearheaded many reforms in the judiciary with the constant backing of the SC justices. Marquez has also been nominated several times for associate justice of the High Court. Meanwhile, former Palace spokesman Harry Roque said Bersamin, the 25th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, is bound to demonstrate a strong bias in favor of victims. Our sense is, the new Chief Justice is likely to have a forceful bearing against violent crime and great compassion for victims, considering that his own family suffered of a brutal killing, Roque said. Bersamins older brother, the late Abra Rep. Luis Bersamin, was shot in the head at the Mt. Carmel Church compound in Quezon City after attending the wedding of his niece on Dec. 16, 2006. Once youve been a victim yourself, you tend to have immense sympathy for other victims, Roque said. Citing political rivalry as the motive, a Quezon City regional trial court on Sept. 30, 2015 found former Abra Gov. Vicente Valera and two accomplices guilty of double murder for the killing of the older Bersamin and his security aide, SPO1 Adelfo Ortega. Valera and his co-conspirators were meted out two 20 to 40-year prison terms. Before he was assassinated, the older Bersamin had declared his plans to run against Valera, then the incumbent governor, in the 2007 elections. Roque, meanwhile, vowed to push for improvements in the countrys legal system. Offhand, we favor an eventual shift to an inquisitorial legal system patterned after those in European countries, where the courts are actively involved in investigating the facts of a case, Roque, a lawyer by profession, said. At present, Roque said the countrys legal system is adversarial, where judge merely acts as the passive and neutral arbiter between the prosecution and the defense. Roque recently filed his certificate of candidacy for senator in next years mid-term elections under the late Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiagos Peoples Reform Party.Police in Sao Paolo, Brazil, arrested 43-year-old Jean Paul Ogou last week, after he tried to avoid having his carry-on bag scanned through the staff X-ray machine and a subsequent search revealed it was filled with pure cocaine.The drugs would have been sold on the street in the UK for a profit upwards of 1.5 million. The Sun reports that police found 13 kg (approximately 28 pounds) of the drug inside his case, packed neatly inside plastic bags and hid in pillow cases. The police report doesnt mention whether they acted on a tip, but this kind of find is too impressive to have been an accident. British Airways sources claim that an organized crime syndicate has infiltrated the company, so Ogou might not be the only agent working for them.Whether thats accurate or not, one thing is clear: this was a well-planned move. Anyone buying that amount of cocaine will need to fork out around 150,000, one inside source is quoted as saying. The thinking is the money was smuggled out of the country to Brazil on a BA flight in hard cash. Once cut, and sold for 50 or 60 a gram, this amount of drugs has a UK street value of around 1.5million.Ogou is a married man and has children. He lives in France but commutes to London, and has family links to the Ivory Coast, the British tabloid notes. He remains in prison in Brazil, while the police further investigate the massive find.Because of Ogous arrest, flight BA246 from Sao Paolo to London took off with a considerable delay. BA confirms that Ogou is no longer in their employment: he had been working with the company for 10 years.Were not going to discuss here whether women are truly as bad drivers as they say, but we will say this: this particular woman doesnt deserve any credit for her skills behind the wheel. Because she seems to have none.The footage was captured on the couples CCTV camera mounted on their driveway, at the end of last month. The Daily Mail says it happened in Des Moines, Iowa, as husband and wife were getting ready to go to work, each in his own car.You can see the video at the bottom of the page, too. A red Toyota pickup backs out of the garage first and comes to a full stop before leaving the driveway: the driver is clearly waiting for traffic. A red Toyota Prius then pulls out of the garage almost immediately, but this driver is clearly more in a hurry.In fact, it seems that the second driver is in so much hurry that they wont even check the rear mirror, so the car backs straight into the pickup truck. The husband gets out, pulls a few hairs in frustration and screams at the wife, who, at this point, is also emerging from the second car: Are you f***ing blind?Blind, she is not  only reckless and not paying enough attention. My wife and I were leaving for work, I was waiting for traffic, and she wasnt, the husband is quoted as saying, after footage of the stupid crash went viral.As you can imagine, reactions to the video range from I told you women suck as drivers to Dudes to blame for not backing out sooner and Had this happen to me, no big deal. Whether you choose to see it as proof of womens lack of driving skills or not, you must admit its funny  in a very stupid way.Image: Bell

A law enforcement-configured Bell 505 Jet Ranger X has been delivered to the Sacramento Police Department, Bell announced on Monday. It was the first 505 Jet Ranger X sold to any law-enforcement agency, according to Bell. The aircraft had several modifications to be prepared for police work, including high skid gear, hard points fore and aft for securing equipment, and ergonomic seats for comfort on long flights, such as when searching for suspects or missing people. Bell says the 505 can seat up to five and is designed to be safe and easy to fly.

The Jet Ranger X flies up to 125 knots and can carry up to 1,500 pounds. Other features of the aircraft that appealed to the police mission, according to Bell Senior Vice President Jay Ortiz, include best-in-class visibility, the Garmin G1000H flight deck and the cost of operations. Other additional equipment includes a 15-inch monitor with a moving map system for airborne searches, a megaphone and searchlight, and a video tracking device. The modified helicopter cost the city about $2.7 million.A Florida man says hell try hang gliding again after his first tandem flight left him hanging on for dear life over the Swiss countryside. Chris Gurskys pilot on the flight forgot to attach his harness to the aircraft and as they soared from the takeoff point Gursky grasped the control bar and the pilots leg for more than two minutes as the pilot raced to get them on the ground. As the hang glider approaches the landing field, the pilot places his hand over Gurskys on the control bar to help him hang on for the last few seconds in harrowing video shot from a sport camera mounted behind the duo. For 2 minutes, 14 seconds I had to hang on for my life! Gursky wrote in the text accompanying the video, which he posted Nov. 26.

Gursky seemed upbeat about what he called the Swiss Mishap, noting hed like to try the sport again as I did not get to enjoy my first flight. He suffered a torn bicep tendon and needed surgery on his wrist after the incident. Meanwhile the Swiss Hang Gliding Association says the incident was horrifying and never should have happened. The sort of mistake in the video is what you learn in your first hour of training, Association President Christian Boppart told Swiss media. Its hard to understand what happened. Its not clear if the pilot will face sanctions for his error. In 2012, a woman fell to her death on a British Columbia mountainside when her pilot forgot to attach her harness. The pilot, William Jon Orders, was jailed for five months and given a lifetime ban on hang gliding after pleading guilty for criminal negligence causing death.Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) is consulting with top-tier political strategists in Iowa who worked on both Hillary Clinton's and Barack Obama's presidential campaigns, CNBC reports.

Why it matters: Booker's early Iowa flirtations signal that he is indeed seriously considering launching a 2020 presidential campaign, perhaps wanting to get a head start over the rest of what is sure to be a packed Democratic field ahead of the Iowa caucuses.Alan Dershowitz still provides legal advice to serial pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, he confirmed to Axios.

What he's saying: "He has called me a couple of times about legal issues, because I'm still technically his lawyer," Dershowitz told me in a phone interview on Saturday. "But I haven't had any social, or any other kind of contact. ... You never stop being a person's lawyer."

Background: Dershowitz helped Epstein get a sweetheart plea deal from then-U.S. Attorney Alexander Acosta (now Donald Trump's labor secretary and a rumored long-shot contender for attorney general).

A bombshell Miami Herald investigative series last week highlighted for the first time the extent of Epstein's alleged crimes and the soft treatment he received from federal prosecutors.

The Palm Beach multimillionaire would "serve just 13 months in the county jail, but the deal  called a non-prosecution agreement  essentially shut down an ongoing FBI probe into whether there were more victims and other powerful people who took part in Epsteins sex crimes," according to a Miami Herald examination of thousands of emails, court documents and FBI records.

Dozens of women alleged that Epstein molested and raped them when they were underaged using a sophisticated human trafficking network. A civil trial is scheduled to begin on Tuesday in Palm Beach County that may finally let these women tell their stories in court.

Behind the scenes: While he was allegedly raping teenage girls, Epstein cultivated cozy relationships with America's elites.

Bill Clinton flew on Epstein's plane, nicknamed the "Lolita Express," numerous times, according to flight logs.

And Donald Trump, in a profile with New York magazine written several years before the police caught up with Epstein, praised his friend as a "terrific guy." "It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do," Trump said of Epstein, "and many of them are on the younger side."

Dershowitz was also friendly with Epstein before the broader public knew he was a pedophile.

Dershowitz confirmed to me that he received a massage at Epstein's Palm Beach home, adding that the woman who provided it was of legal age.

"What happened was I, um, he lent us, this was well before any of this thing came out, he lent us his house once. And I was there, my grandchildren were there, my daughter was there, and we all got massages."

"And, um, it was therapeutic. I had a therapeutic massage with an old old Russian, but I never never ... and that was part of when we had his house for about a week during I think it was Christmas vacation."

"Believe me, if I had known that anything improper had ever taken place in that house, I never would have allowed my children, my grandchildren, my wife, my daughter-in-law, my son, to have spent time there. I can tell you categorically there were no inappropriate pictures, no inappropriate anythings. It was like any other house."

One of Epstein's accusers, Virginia Roberts, has claimed Dershowitz had sex with her when she was underage. Dershowitz has denied the allegation and told the Miami Herald "the story was 100 percent flatly categorically made-up" so "she could get money."

Go deeper: Trump defender Dershowitz shunned by Martha's VineyardOne night in Buenos Aires could define Donald Trump's presidency. Within a few hours, Trump telegraphed ambivalence about the two issues that have defined his time in politics: China and the wall.

Why it matters: Trump's comments mean the next three months may define his presidency. His first term is slipping away from him. On the trail, he promised to build a wall. But almost two years into his presidency, he's barely built anything. He also promised to force China to end its abuse of American businesses. But China hasn't changed in any meaningful way.

What happened:

On China, Trump eased free traders' concerns by agreeing to freeze the trade war for 90 days  keeping the tariffs at 10% instead of ratcheting up to 25%  in the hope that the Chinese will crack down on fentanyl exports, buy a "very substantial" amount of U.S. products and, for the first time, earnestly address their bad behavior including theft of American intellectual property.

Trump eased free traders' concerns by agreeing to freeze the trade war for 90 days  keeping the tariffs at 10% instead of ratcheting up to 25%  in the hope that the Chinese will crack down on fentanyl exports, buy a "very substantial" amount of U.S. products and, for the first time, earnestly address their bad behavior including theft of American intellectual property. On the wall, Trump signaled he's prepared to sign a temporary government funding bill to delay a shutdown fight for two weeks.

The Chinese are doing what they always do: making vague promises of reform and seeking to delay confrontation while continuing to steal intellectual property and abuse trade rules.

"The principal agreement has effectively prevented further expansion of economic friction between the two countries" and has opened up "new space for win-win cooperation," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told reporters after the dinner.

In the coming weeks and months, Trump must decide what means he will use to force these two seemingly impossible outcomes: getting Democrats to pay for his wall and getting China to stop stealing from American companies.

Behind the scenes: China hawks may have more reason to be concerned given that stock futures are way up on the G20 news. In the wake of Buenos Aires, I spoke to two sources familiar with Trump's thinking on China, and both said they worry he's too concerned about keeping the stock market buoyant to risk tanking it by hitting China with new tariffs. A stock market boost on Monday could reinforce Trumps instincts. (Which would suit free traders Larry Kudlow and Steven Mnuchin just fine.)

These hawks worry the Chinese can drag the "dialogue" with the Trump administration beyond the 90 days, delaying action from a president hobbled by looming Democratic subpoenas, a special counsel investigation and a wobbly stock market.

"Everything has got to be seen through the prism of the investigation and needing short-term micro tactical wins," said one of these concerned hawks. "And that's why the stock market going up is a win."

"The whole effort with China has been brought to a grinding halt," the source argued, comparing the delay to a short-term continuing resolution to kick the government funding fight down the road.

The bottom line: "Elections have consequences," the source added. "The defeat in November leads to compromises in December on the wall and trade  and we haven't yet begun '19."

Go deeper:Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Monday urged the authorities to treat ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro and former congressman Satur Ocampo with dignity and respect, after the two were arrested on Nov. 28 in Davao del Norte. They entitled to a certain level of dignified and respectful treatment in situations such as this, particularly since our judicial system is based upon the principle of presumption of innocence, Arroyo said in a statement. This is my position regarding any member of the House, regardless of political or ideological alignment. At the same time the House will always uphold the law and its processes. I understand that they have been given 10 days to file their counter affidavits in order to refute the charges against them, and I would urge a speedy resolution of the matter within the framework of our judicial system, she said. I have long known former Rep. Satur Ocampo personally, and I pray that he, Rep. Castro and their co-respondents are well and will continue to be so until this matter is resolved. Arroyo said she learned of their arrest through Gabriela Reps. Arlene Brosas and Emmi de Jesus, who called on her to look into their situation. The leftist Makabayan bloc in the House said they would file charges against Armed Forces chief Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. for accusing Castro of being a member of the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New Peoples Army. We will file a case sa Ombudsman against the military, Anakpawis Party-list Rep. Ariel Casilao, a member of the bloc, said at a news conference. This very dangerous and baseless statement, he added. Casilao said Galvez was quoted as saying that Ocampo was as a propagandist of the CPP-NPA, and that the Salugpongan Tatanu Igkanugon Community Learning Center in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, and the Alternative Learning Center for Agriculture Livelihood Development are breeding grounds of the NPA. Castro denied she is an NPA member. Castro, Ocampo, and 16 others have been charged with kidnapping and human trafficking for allegedly taking custody of minors during their solidarity mission in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, on the evening of Nov. 28. All of them were released from detention on Saturday night after they each posted P80,000 bail for their charges. Philippine National Police chief Oscar Albayalde rejected a challenge from a legislator that he visit the Lumad school that the military and police say is a communist breeding ground. Theres no need to visit them because when you get there, theyll be teaching something else, he said in Filipino. Thats not what our IPs (indigenous people) say. We believe them. You could just imagine, they were exploited there and their minds were poisoned. Even their children. Earlier, Castro dared Abayalde and the police to visit Lumad schools to check on their condition.But Albayalde said he had no interest in visiting a Lumad school, where he said IP students were being brainwashed by the communists. What they are teaching is how to rally and other ways to help the [communist] movement, he added. Albayalde rejected suggestions that Castro and Ocampo were arrested on trumped-up charges. We cannot fabricate charges because that wont stand in court. We can never fabricate charges. If there is no complainant, there are no charges, he said, citing the complaint filed by parents and relatives of the children. Castro said Albayaldes refusal to visit Lumad schools reflects his ignorance. Ocampo, meanwhile, denied allegations that the communists were recruiting minors through the Lumad schools. In an interview with ANC Headstart, Ocampo said the communists had a rule against recruiting minors. The NPA operates in the hinterlands. It so happens that most if not all of the communities of the Lumads are in the hinterlands, so they become battleground areas. It is not surprising that the NPA has its main objective of organizing the people in the struggle for their own welfare, he said. It doesnt deny that there are Lumads who joined the NPA but they are not minors, he added. The military, on the other hand, was recruiting from the community for its paramilitary forces. The consequence is that the people are being divided and fighting among themselves, he said. Also on Monday, the Palace played down as a personal sentiment Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr.s statement that the kidnapping and trafficking charges against Ocampo were bullsh*t. Locsin vouched for Ocampo, stressing that the latter has protected him in Congress against warrants of arrest. We view the comment of SFA Locsin as a personal sentiment given the fact that he and former Congressman Satur Ocampo are friends and were both together in Congress. It is not reflective of the view of the administration, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a Palace press briefing Monday.Until George H.W. Bush's death on Friday, most of my GOP leadership and White House sources expected the government to partially shut down on Dec. 7, as Democrats won't give Trump the $5 billion he wants for his border wall.

But these same sources now say the week of national mourning for George H.W. Bush  his body will lay in state in the Capitol and services will be held in D.C. and Texas  makes it likely Trump signs a short-term funding bill to delay the shutdown by one to two weeks. Trump told reporters this was the case on Air Force One on his way back from Argentina on Saturday.

Behind the scenes: House Republican leadership has privately discussed a "Plan B": sending a dead-on-arrival bill to the Senate that would satisfy Trump's border wall demands, according to sources with direct knowledge. That plan: "Watch it die, and hope that that then generates the discussion that needs to happen," one source said.

What's next? Trump is expected to meet with Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer on Tuesday morning, according to two sources briefed on the plans. Until last week, White House officials and Republican leaders sounded cautiously optimistic about cutting a deal with Schumer to give Trump close to the $5 billion he demands.

Some progressives criticized Schumer for offering Trump $1.6 billion for border security  what Trump's 2019 budget requests. (The White House later asked the Hill for $18 billion for border fencing.)

Schumer made clear in a floor speech this week that he has no intention of moving further toward Trump's $5 billion. And as Pelosi has a floor vote for speaker in January, she isnt about to play ball with Trump and give the few remaining holdouts a reason to vote against her.

The question swirling in GOP circles: If Trump lets the government shut down because Congress wont fund his wall, how would he negotiate its re-opening  especially given his scant leverage over Democrats?

"Politically, both sides probably see benefits," Marc Short, former White House director of legislative affairs, told me.

"But unlike previous shutdowns ... it's hard to see what the pressure is to end the shutdown" given that spending bills passed before the midterms already fund so much of the government, including the military.

It would be a partial shutdown, covering about 25% of federal spending  including Transportation, Interior, Agriculture, Homeland Security, Justice and State.

Go deeper: Trump "totally" willing to shut down government over border wall fightEveryone's waiting for the "Mueller Report." But it turns out that special counsel Robert Mueller is writing a "report" in real time, before our eyes, through his cinematic indictments and plea agreements.

The big picture: One of the least-noticed elements of the special counsel's approach is that all along, he has been making his case bit by bit, in public, since his very first court filing. With his major court filings so far, Mueller has already written more than 290 pages of the "Mueller Report." And there are still lots of loose ends in those documents  breadcrumbs Mueller is apparently leaving for later.

Perhaps the best example is Mueller's oddly specific reference to the Russian hackers targeting Hillary Clinton "for the first time" after candidate Trump's still-unexplained "Russia, if you're listening" comment on July 27, 2016.

Trump said: "I hope youre able to find the 30,000 [Clinton] emails that are missing. I think you will probably be rewarded mightily by our press." (He also said: "I have nothing to do with Russia.")

"I hope youre able to find the 30,000 [Clinton] emails that are missing. I think you will probably be rewarded mightily by our press." (He also said: "I have nothing to do with Russia.") A Mueller indictment in July said that the next day, "the Conspirators ... attempted after hours to spear-phish for the first time email accounts at a domain hosted by a third-party provider and used by Clintons personal office."

in July said that the next day, "the Conspirators ... attempted after hours to spear-phish for the first time email accounts at a domain hosted by a third-party provider and used by Clintons personal office." That shows Mueller has access to much more intelligence than is publicly known. Remember, these are Russian government employees. So Mueller has remarkable and thus far unexplained visibility.

By making such detailed filings, Mueller is actually increasing his burden of proof  suggesting a supreme confidence that he has the goods.

And by making so much public as he goes along, Mueller is also insuring against his probe being shut down or otherwise curtailed by the White House.

Some of his deeply detailed filings raise questions that suggest more is coming:

In a February indictment of officials of the Russian troll factory, he announced that three Internet Research Agency employees traveled to the U.S. in 2014. He indicted two of them, but left unindicted someone from the IRA who evidently traveled to Atlanta as part of the operation for four days in 2014.

of officials of the Russian troll factory, he announced that three Internet Research Agency employees traveled to the U.S. in 2014. He indicted two of them, but left unindicted someone from the IRA who evidently traveled to Atlanta as part of the operation for four days in 2014. Mueller makes clear in the indictment that he knows the precise IRA official to whom this unnamed male traveler filed his Atlanta expenses after the trip.

in the indictment that he knows the precise IRA official to whom this unnamed male traveler filed his Atlanta expenses after the trip. The information could have come from U.S. intelligence or another country. But Mueller leaves the impression he may have a cooperator inside the troll factory.

Other hints at coming attractions:

Mueller said in last week's Michael Cohen plea agreement that a "Moscow Project" meeting about a Trump-branded building in Russia was called off, by Cohen, on the same day that the DNC hack became public.

in last week's Michael Cohen plea agreement that a "Moscow Project" meeting about a Trump-branded building in Russia was called off, by Cohen, on the same day that the DNC hack became public. Based on a court filing last week, Mueller apparently hopes to quickly issue a "report" on Manaforts activities to the court.

Be smart: If its anything like every other document Mueller has filed thus far, it'll be more informed, more knowledgeable, and more detailed than we can imagine.

Go deeper:1 big thing: Going nuclear to help the planet

Three Mile Island, Pa.  Next year will mark 40 years since Americas worst nuclear-energy accident unfolded here in a partial radioactive meltdown. The Pennsylvania reactor still operating next to the defunct one is set to close next year, 15 years sooner than planned.

Why it matters: As we found in a visit for "Axios on HBO," this power plant represents everything good and bad about Americas nuclear power.

As climate change worsens, calls are growing to keep plants like this one open despite the financial strains because they emit no heat-trapping gases.

Yet fears persist about safety and what to do with the radioactive waste.

I think that the climate change problem is now so dire and so immediate that we can't afford to turn away from any technologies that promise to reduce our dependence on fuels that emit carbon dioxide when burned. And nuclear is a part of that portfolio.

 Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), in an interview for "Axios on HBO"

The big picture: Cheap natural gas and increasingly cheap renewables buoyed by government support are financially squeezing this plant and others, which arent compensated for their carbon-free profile like wind and solar.

Nuclear power provides 20% of Americas electricity, more than half of the carbon-free kind. In Pennsylvania, that share is nearly 94%.

Driving the news: Exelon, owner of Three Mile Island, has been losing money for 5 years on this plant. It announced earlier this year it was planning to close the plant in September 2019 unless there's government action, likely through the Pennsylvania legislature, to financially help it remain open.

Context is key. Wind and solar are growing rapidly, but the scale is still far smaller than nuclear power.

Replacing the carbon-free electricity produced by a single reactor would require more than 800 average-sized wind turbines at a cost of $1.3 billion  or 15.8 million solar panels at a cost of nearly $6.6 billion, according to an analysis done by Third Way for this story.

Critics say taxpayers shouldnt have to pay to keep the nuclear power industry afloat. Exelon officials counter that electricity prices would rise regardless of whether plants shut down or remain open with government support  its just a matter of how much.

Outside of the industry, support is waning as worries persist about safety. In 2016, support for nuclear power fell below 50%, and as of March, it was still there.

Whats next: The industry isnt trying to build new big plants, given the prohibitively high costs. The final price tags of the only new U.S. reactors under construction today could exceed $30 billion.

For now, Exelon, its employees here and local support groups are going to be urging state lawmakers to keep it open. The window to reverse course closes this summer.

Go deeper: Read the full column in the Axios stream.THREE MILE ISLAND, Pa.  Next year will mark 40 years since Americas worst nuclear-energy accident unfolded here in a partial radioactive meltdown. The reactor still operating next to the defunct one is set to close next year, 15 years sooner than planned.

Why it matters: As we found during a visit for "Axios on HBO," this power plant represents everything good and bad about Americas nuclear power. With climate change worsening, calls are growing to keep plants like this one open despite financial strains because they emit no heat-trapping gases. Yet fear persists about safety and what to do with the radioactive waste.

I think that the climate change problem is now so dire and so immediate that we can't afford to turn away from any technologies that promise to reduce our dependence on fuels that emit carbon dioxide when burned. And nuclear is a part of that portfolio.

 Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), in interview for "Axios on HBO"

The big picture: Cheap natural gas and increasingly cheap renewables buoyed by government support are financially squeezing this plant and others, which arent compensated for their carbon-free profile like wind and solar. Nuclear power provides 20% of Americas electricity, more than half of the carbon-free kind. In Pennsylvania, that share is nearly 94%.

Driving the news: Exelon, owner of Three Mile Island, has been losing money for five years. It announced earlier this year it was planning to close the plant in September 2019 unless there was government action, likely through the Pennsylvania legislature, to financially help it remain open.

By the numbers:

One-third of Americas nuclear power could be taken offline in the next few years, and as much as two-thirds could be unprofitable in the coming years, according to MIT research

Four reactors have prematurely closed since 2012, and more than a dozen are expected to close in the next six years, according to a report

More than 10 reactors at risk of closing are being kept open after four states  New York, Illinois, New Jersey and Connecticut  approved policies in recent years to subsidize the plants, according to experts at the centrist think tank Third Way.

Context is key. Wind and solar are growing rapidly, but the scale is still far smaller than nuclear power.

Replacing the carbon-free electricity produced by a single reactor would require more than 800 average-sized wind turbines at a cost of $1.3 billion  or 15.8 million solar panels at a cost of nearly $6.6 billion, according to an analysis done by Third Way for this story.

Critics say taxpayers shouldnt have to pay to keep the nuclear power industry afloat. Exelon officials counter that electricity prices would rise regardless of whether plants shut down or remain open with government support  its just a matter of how much.

Exelon says it would cost less to keep nuclear plants open and that they'd help the climate in a way that natural gas  the power that would likely replace them  wouldnt. (Gas produces CO2 emissions.)

At Three Mile Island, many of the 675 employees arent sure of their next steps if the plant closes. Mara Levy, 27, a reactor engineer here, and her fiance both work in the industry.

It is concerning to see nuclear on this shrinking trend because we both have nuclear engineering degrees, we both have spent our entire careers within the industry. So staying in the industry may get harder if these plants start to shut down."

 Mary Levy, reactor engineer

Outside of the industry, support is waning as worries persist about safety. In 2016, support for nuclear power fell below 50%, and as of March, it was still there.

Radioactive waste is stored onsite at the nearly 100 reactors around the country, stoking fears and opposition.

But the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, an independent government agency, says public health has never been affected by the storage or transportation of waste.

That includes when the remains of Three Mile Islands half-melted core were moved from Pennsylvania to storage at the Idaho National Laboratory in the late 1980s.

Whitehouse says reusing spent fuel, something France does successfully, would help resolve peoples concerns. That technology is not as far along in the U.S. as other advanced nuclear technologies, which are designed smaller and produce less waste.

Whats next: The industry isnt trying to build new big plants, given the prohibitively high costs. The final price tags of the only new U.S. reactors under construction today could exceed $30 billion.

For more than a year, the Trump administration has been considering policy measures to keep economically struggling nuclear reactors open, as well as coal plants that face similar problems. It's unclear what, if anything, will come of this.

For now, Exelon, its employees here and local support groups are going to be urging state lawmakers to keep it open. The window to reverse course closes this summer.

Sascha Gardner, producer on the Axios on HBO show, contributed to this reporting.Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian has ordered Armenian security services to deal with some of his harsh critics, saying that their statements made during the ongoing parliamentary election campaign border on high treason.

Campaigning in the southeastern Syunik province at the weekend, Pashinian complained that some representatives of political forces accuse his government of plotting a conspiracy against Nagorno-Karabakh. He also cited false opposition allegations that Russian arms supplies to Armenia stopped after he came to power in May.

Acknowledging their imminent political death, those people have decided to become, through provocative political statements, treacherous warmongers in the hope of provoking a treacherous war and solving their parochial interests, he charged at a campaign rally held in the provincial town of Goris.

The National Security Service (NSS) and military counterintelligence must now deal with my theory and those statements because some people are confidently moving towards high treason, he said. Im not afraid of making such statements. And I want to say that Armenias current government and people have enough levers to root out some forces attempting to take subversive actions in our armys rear.

If anyone tries to suspect the peoples revolution, namely the popularly elected government, of any anti-national or anti-state conspiracy, we will reserve ourselves the right to suspect those people of being agents of foreign influence at the least, he said.

Pashinian made similar statements when he took his campaign to the southern Ararat province on Monday. Those people must go and give explanations to relevant [state] bodies, he said of his detractors.

Although the prime minister again named no names, he most probably referred to senior representatives of former President Serzh Sarkisians Republican Party of Armenian (HHK). They have condemned his allegations last week that senior Karabakh officials are meddling in the Armenian parliamentary race.

The HHK did not immediately react to Pashinians order issued to the NSS.Earlier last week, it accused him of resorting to anti-HHK hate speech on the campaign trail.

On Saturday, the former ruling partys deputy chairman, Armen Ashotian, pledged to sue a close Pashinian associate, First Deputy Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, who branded the Republicans as a gang of criminals.

Ashotian and other HHK figures claim that Pashinian is targeting their party during the election campaign in order to deflect public attention from what they describe as his failure to deliver on his far-reaching promises made to Armenians.A leader of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (Dashnaktsutyun), Armen Rustamian, accused Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian on Monday of abusing administrative resources and trying to stifle dissent ahead of Sundays parliamentary elections.

Rustamian condemned Pashinian for telling the National Security Service (NSS) to deal with politicians accusing him of jeopardizing Armenias and Nagorno-Karabakhs security.

Pashinian decried over the weekend false opposition claims about a government conspiracy against Karabakh and a suspension of Russian arms supplies to Armenia. They may amount to high treason, he declared without naming names.

Rustamian suggested that the premier referred to Dashnaktsutyun as well. If he didnt mean us, I would ask him to elaborate on his statement, he said, adding that the authorities must stop trying to find traitors in any case.

These unaddressed accusations are creating an atmosphere of terror and a situation where we can already speak of unequal conditions and abuse of administrative resources, he told reporters.

Rustamian went as far as to draw parallels between Pashinian and former President Levon Ter-Petrosian, who banned Dashnaktsutyun and had some of its leaders arrested in 1994-1995.

In the 1990s I was accused of high treason, he said. This is Levon Ter-Petrosians style. They arrested me but couldnt prove anything.

Another Dashnaktsutyun leader, Hrant Markarian, is among those critics of the new Armenian government who have claimed that Russian arms deliveries to Armenia stopped after Pashinian came to power in May. The premier angrily denied Markarians claim at the start of his election campaign last week.

For his part, Rustamian said on November 26 that Pashinians government may be trying to replace old political and economic monopolies with new ones.

Dashnaktsutyun was officially allied to former President Serzh Sarkisian during the last two years of his decade-long rule. A power-sharing agreement signed in 2016 gave it three ministerial posts in Sarkisians government.

Dashnaktsutyun reached a similar deal with Pashinian after mass protests led by him forced Sarkisian to resign as prime minister in April. The de facto coalition collapsed in October, with Pashinian accusing Dashnaktsutyun and another partner, the Prosperous Armenia Party, of collaborating with Sarkisians Republican Party.By Trend

Hungary is interested in connecting to Baku-Tbilisi-Kars (BTK) railway, Hungarian Ambassador to Azerbaijan Viktor Szederkenyi told Trend.

For Hungary every infrastructural project is important, which connects Europe and Asia, said the envoy, adding that in this regard, the country attaches great importance to Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway.

"We consider that the BTK is a global, open project, and of course Hungarian side is interested in participating and connecting to it, because this railway line will shorten the transportation distance and time to and from Asia. This issue is regularly on the agenda of our political meetings," said Szederkenyi.

Further, the diplomat pointed out that the Alat Sea Trade Port project is examined by the Hungarian side, as well as the operating conditions of the free trade zone established in the port.

As the Alat harbor is operating at the intersection of the North-South and East-West transport corridors, Hungary sees that it is becoming the multimodal hub of the Caspian region, noted Szederkenyi.

"In general, we want Hungary to become Azerbaijans gateway to the EU markets, we also believe that Azerbaijan  through its multi-vectoral infrastructure projects  may become our gateway to the larger region," said the ambassador.

On October 30, 2017, a solemn ceremony on the occasion of the opening of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway was held at the Baku International Sea Trade Port.

The BTK railway is built on the basis of the Azerbaijani-Georgian-Turkish intergovernmental agreement. At the initial stage, the volume of freight traffic will be at the level of 6.5 million tons of cargo, as well as up to one million passengers will be transported through this railway.

The Port in Alat, which will become the biggest port on the Caspian Sea, is an important part of Azerbaijan's transport infrastructure.

The free economic zone is being created in Alat settlement upon the Azerbaijani presidents order signed in March 2016. The territory of the new Baku International Sea Trade Port is also included in the free economic zone.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Trend

Amendments to the tax legislation in Azerbaijan, which will come into force Jan. 1, 2019, consider the interests of the business sector and have been developed in accordance with the strategic road maps, Samira Musayeva, director general of the Tax Policy Department of Azerbaijans Ministry of Taxes, said at a briefing Dec. 3.

She noted that the amendments are aimed at the implementation of the tasks set before the ministry in the strategic road maps.

In the process of their development, meetings with entrepreneurs were held and international trends were studied, she said.

Musayeva noted that the amendments can be divided into five areas: ensuring transparency of taxation, expanding the taxable base, improving tax administration, supporting the development of entrepreneurship, increasing the economic efficiency of benefits and exemptions.

She noted that one of the significant changes was the exemption of employees with a monthly income of up to 8,000 manats from income tax.

Another important amendment is the return to taxpayers of 15 percent of the goods value when implementing non-cash payments and 10 percent on the basis of a cash register check for cash payments, she said.

The changes also affect the articles on tax administration, she added.

In order to improve it, for example, next generation cash registers will be installed, and taxpayers will be registered in the area where they carry out economic activities, Musayeva said.

The issue of expanding the rights of taxpayers and supporting entrepreneurship was also discussed.

Musayeva said that according to the changes, simplified tax throughout Azerbaijan will be 2 percent (presently, it amounts to 4 percent for Baku and 2 percent for districts).

At the same time, in case of administrative complaints, the tax authorities will no longer withdraw funds from the deposit, but freeze them, she noted.

Entrepreneurs who will operate in clusters of small and medium businesses will be exempted from income tax, land tax and profit tax for a period of seven years, startups in the small and medium businesses segment will also receive benefits in the form of exemption from profit tax and income tax for a period of three years, she added.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Leman Mammadova

First Secretary-Consul of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Azerbaijan Batyr Rejepov held a meeting with Deputy Secretary General of the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs (Employers) Organizations of Azerbaijan Fuad Humbatov.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the opening of a Turkmen trade house in Azerbaijan.

The diplomat said that the trade house to be opened is aimed at the sale of various textile products and handmade carpets from Turkmenistan.

Batyr Rejepov asked the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs Organizations of Azerbaijan to support them on the issues related to their involvement in cooperation, legal registration of the commercial house.

Fuad Humbatov assured that the Confederation will provide appropriate support for the opening of a trading house.

The diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan established in 1992.

Cooperation has been developing rapidly in recent years. The signing of the Strategic Partnership Declaration between the two countries within the framework of the Turkmen President's visit to Azerbaijan in August 2017 raised bilateral relations to a qualitatively new level, particularly in transportation area that will boost the trade-economic relations.

Bilateral relations have gained even more importance after signing Azerbaijani-Turkmen documents in November 2018.

Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan have already simplified visa regime for international transportation between two countries.

Trade turnover between the two countries in 2017 amounted to $ 164.1 million. $ 54.1 million exported to Turkmenistan, and $ 110 million imported from Turkmenistan.

Bilateral relations in transport and trade are expected to further intensify with Turkmenistans joining the Southern Gas Corridor by implementation of the Trans-Caspian gas pipeline aimed at delivery of Turkmen gas to Europe, the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway project to transport Turkmen exports, Lapis Lazuli transport corridor and International North-South Transport Corridor projects.

Signed this year, the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea is a historic moment that further strengthened ties among littoral states, that is hopeful for the realization of energy projects envisaging supply of Turkmen gas to the West, which has been delayed for a long time.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Narmina Mammadova

The introduction of local products to international markets is boosting the non-oil sector of country's economy and strengthens business ties with foreign countries. Therefore, Azerbaijan is organizing a number of export missions to foreign countries in order to promote national products.

The Made in Azerbaijan brand, launched by the decree of President Ilham Aliyev dated November 5, 2016, envisages a large-scale promotion of local non-oil products in foreign markets. The brand is highly successful in regional and world markets, and Azerbaijans local output meets all the necessary standards.

Positive results of the measures taken by the state may be seen even now.

In January-October 2018, the export on non-oil products amounted to $1billion 351 million, that is up $132 up million or 11% from the previous year, Report informs.

According to the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communications, in the reporting period, the most non-oil products worth were exported to Russia - $467.1 million (10 percent more compared to the previous year). Non-oil exports amounted to $293.8 million (21 percent more) to Turkey, $114.4 million- to Switzerland (1 percent more) and $38.4 million to Kazakhstan (48 percent more). Export to Georgia decreased to $106.5 million to (4 percent less).

In October 2018, the export on non-oil products amounted to $144 million. Russia imported products worth $64.9 million, Turkey - $18.2 million, Switzerland - $9.2 million, Georgia - $9.1 million, Ukraine - $7.3 million.

The first place among non-oil sector goods exported in ten months is occupied by tomatoes ($ 149.9 million), second place - gold ($ 99.9 million) and third place - polyethylene in primary form with a specific weight below 0.94 ($ 68.5 million dollars).

The export value of fruits and vegetables in January-October 2018 amounted to $ 405.5 million, plastics and plastic products - $ 103.6 million, aluminum and aluminum products - $ 102.7 million, electricity - $ 60 million, ferrous metals and products from them - $ 72.2 million dollars, cotton fiber - $ 64.5 million dollars, chemical products -$ 63.9million dollars, cotton yarn - $ 19 million dollars.

Persimmon ($ 23.4 million) is at the first place in the structure of exports. Peeled hazelnuts ($ 13.3 million) and apples ($ 7 million) are at the second and third places, respectively.

Export missions (China, Dubai, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Qatar, Germany, Kazakhstan) with the participation of local manufacturers began from November 2016. As a result of the first export missions, the export of red wine to China and food products to the UAE started in November 2016.

Agreements were also reached on the export of honey to Dubai, pomegranate juice to European markets, fruit juices to Afghanistan and Pakistan, pipes, and polyethylene products to Pakistan. The supply of street and city furniture to Qatar has already begun. In addition, at exhibitions in Dubai (Gulfood 2017) and Germany (Prowein), where Azerbaijani companies took part in a single stand, orders for exporting hazelnuts to Spain were received. Negotiations on the export of fruits and vegetables, fruit juices, honey, and powdered milk, meat, tea, nuts to the countries of the Persian Gulf and access to trading networks operating in this region were held.

Negotiations were also held on the supply of lemonade, mineral waters and naphthalan ointment to Kazakhstan.

Agreements were reached on the export of products to Turkey within the mission of 19 companies operating in food, construction and construction materials, chemical industry, furniture manufacturing and tourism in Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic during the visit to Istanbul in October 2018.

On November 6-9, 2018, local companies, that visited Sofia as part of the export mission, reached an agreement to export pomegranates, pomegranate juices, nuts and other products.

The Azerbaijani export mission to the capital of Germany was organized by the support of the Ministry of Economy and Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation (AZPROMO). The export mission took place on November 27-30, 2018.

The export missions of Azerbaijan continue to expand with the aim of promoting country's non-oil products abroad.

As many as 25 export missions are expected to be organized in 2019. Local entrepreneurs will participate in major trade fair in Russia, UAE and Germany in February. The new market at which Azerbaijan aims is South Korea, Azerbaijan will be participating in the food fair there in May 2019.

Export missions to UAE and Saudi Arabia will be organized by the end of this year.

The export of non-oil products will stimulate the expansion of the Azerbaijani products and will further strengthen the non-oil sector's share in the structure of the GDP.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzA Filipino inventor has developed what he claims to be an unsinkable rescue boat that is the only one of its kind in the world.

Ronald Pagsanghan said he thought of developing an unsinkable boat after he witnessed the devastation wrought by Typhoon Ketsana or Ondoy in Luzon, including Metro Manila, in 2009. The typhoon killed 789 people and caused billions of pesos worth of damage to infrastructure and the agricultural sector. And the rescue operations were delayed by the flood waters that flowed in many areas. Rubber boats could not maneuver at the height of the floods, Pagsanghan said. That horrible experience gave me the idea of developing an unsinkable boat designed for rescue operations in flooded areas. It was in 2011 that he came up with a prototype of his unsinkable portable boat that he tested successfully.My portable unsinkable boat is primarily designed for flooded areas in urban areas and rivers, Pagsanghan said, adding it was the only one of its kind in the world. He said in 2012 he received the 2012 award for his invention from the Rotary Club of Manila and the Manila Polo Club. Since then, local government units from Isabela, Bulacan, and Quezon had ordered boats from him. His rescue boat was one of the main attractions during the recent Filipino Inventory Week held at the SM Dome in North EDSA, Quezon City. Pagsanghan said he hoped that the government would fully extend help to promote not only his invention but also other notable inventions by Filipino inventors.By Laman Ismayilova

Days of Azerbaijani cinema will be held in country's higher educational institutions.

The project is co-organized by the Ministry of Culture and the State Film Fund, Trend Life reported.

Days of Azerbaijani cinema will be held at Azerbaijan State Pedagogical University and Azerbaijan State University of Oil and Industry on December 3-6. National films will be also screened at Azerbaijan University of Languages on December 4-7.

The events will include screenings of documentaries made in recent years on the themes of patriotism, national and spiritual values, as well as meetings with famous artists.

Azerbaijani cinematography, rich with eminent events and playing important role in cultural-moral life of Azerbaijani people, has passed for over a century a specific way of development.

When the Lumiere brothers of France premiered their first motion picture footage in 1895, little did they know how rapidly it would ignite a new age of photographic documentation. The brothers invented an apparatus "Cinematographe", patented in February 1895. This apparatus soon showed up in Baku at the turn of the 19th century, when the developing oil industry attracted foreigners eager to invest and to work.

The first short, silent film of Azerbaijani cinematography "You are caught" was shown in Baku on August 2, 1898.

So, the audience witnessed the birth of Azerbaijani cinematography. To honor this historical day, August 2 was declared as professional holiday of cinema workers  Day of Azerbaijani Cinema.

Azerbaijans first feature film "The Reign of Oil and Millions" was produced in 1915. The film is based on M. Musabayovs novel of the same name.

A year later Svetlov directed the first musical comedy "Arshin mal alan" by Uzeir Hajibayli. It was a silent movie and the musical parts were performed by indoor musicians and female roles were played by men.

In 1922, the government of Azerbaijan decided to create the first cinema factory which became the forerunner of today's film studio Azerbaijanfilm.

A State program on developing Azerbaijani cinema for the years 2008-2018 is currently aiding in the expansion of modern national cinema.

Azerbaijani cinema enjoys huge recognition at international film festivals, which frequently award the national films.

This year, Azerbaijan celebrates the 120th anniversary of national cinematography.

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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzOn 26 November 2018, Kyiv welcomed the IV Annual EE Real Estate Forum sponsored by URE Club and Europaproperty.com. For the fourth time in a row, the forum brought together the key players and real estate market experts from all over the world. This years event attracted over 200 participants from Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Moldova, and Poland. The agenda included 3 sections, 2 panel discussions, and 25 speakers.

Residential property as a driving force for the regions economic growth was the key topic at this years discussion. Real estate is the backbone of the European economy, while residential real estate forms the biggest part of the market. We believe that Ukraine has a huge potential for development, and soon enough, our region will be attracting big foreign investors, said Olga Solovey, CEO at URE Club and this years event moderator, in her opening speech.

The first Forum section was focused on Ukraines investment attractiveness and started with the speech given by Tatiana Korotka, Deputy Business Ombudsman. According to Natalia Zaderey, head of financial stability department at the National Bank of Ukraine, the research conducted by the National Bank shows that Ukraine has a good investment environment, based on the analysis of real estate prices and rental rates dynamics.

At the moment, there is no financial bubble in our region that negatively affects the real estate market. Our situation is exactly the opposite, the expert commented. Next speakers were Elena Dmitrieva from Globus Bank supervisory board and Yuriy Khapko, senior partner at TOTUM Law Firm, who focused on a newly-adopted strategic and environmental assessment law requiring developers to submit project documentation for public hearings. In addition, Mr. Khapko told that starting from 1 January 2019, urban-planning feasibility evaluation will be cancelled, which will significantly influence all projects in historical areas and the real estate market in general.

The section ended up with the panel discussion featuring Elena Shulyak, head of construction department at BRDO; Oleksiy Chernyshov, founder at VI2 Partners; and Nick Cotton, managing director at Cushman & Wakefield Ukraine. When responding to questions about specific factors investors are paying attention to, Oleksiy Chernyshov noted that Ukraines geopolitical situation and the lack of capital significantly affect the real estate market: We have a lot of high-quality projects attractive to investors, and our Forum attendees are the perfect example. However, we need to regain investors trust in our country and our economy. Thats when foreign partners will start investing in Ukraines property development industry.

The second Forum section was focused on the legal aspects of the Eastern region, as well as investment attractiveness of Ukraines and Europes regions. Natalia Kochergina, partner at Dla Piper Ukraine, spoke about the major legal models for investing in Ukraine; Lika Kardava (managing partner at Property Georgia) and Irakly Kilauridze (managing director at Colliers Georgia) gave their insights on Georgias real estate market and benefits for investors.

Vitaliy Melnik, partner and vice-president at UTG, spoke about the current trends in Europes real estate market. He noted that the modern construction businesses should stand up to environmental friendliness, energy saving, and urban development. Iryna Skorokhodova, vice-president at Alfa-Bank Ukraine, spoke about the successful investment property sales. The attendees were especially impressed by Andrey Artyushenkos (Artyushenko and Partners) speech, who shared the positive experience of Kazakhstans real estate market. Certain changes in the country had a positive impact on the construction industry. State commissions were completely banned. Therefore, in order to put a project into operation, no matter how complex it is, you need to get signatures only from 4 parties: the customer, the contractor, the on-site designer supervision and technical supervision companies, told Mr Artyushenko.

Volodymyr Mysak (Cushman & Wakefield Ukraine), who moderated the third section, opened the block of regional investment projects presentations. Reports were presented by Oleksandr Kolomoyets, Director at Dnipropetrovsk Regional State Administration Investment and Innovation Center (Dnipro); Sergiy Popovich, Kyiv Investment Agency (Kyiv); Yuri Kuznetsov, Director General at Ecotec Development (Odessa); Igor Balaka, Director General at KRONA Production and Law Firm (Kharkiv); Grygoriy Khodyn, chief architect in Kherson Region; and Volodymyr Khmurych (Bila Tserkva Industrial Park).

The section was followed by the panel discussion moderated by Andrey Mima, co-founder at LUN and Flatfy. According to Andrey, in 2019, urbanization and digitalization will become the main trends in real estate. Forum attendees had the opportunity to see the newest digital technologies allowing to get a detailed view of real estate sites in online mode. Andrey Vavrysh (EO SAGA Development) noted that property development will continue evolving towards high-quality architectural design and meeting the demands of customers. Vitaly Boyko (EO NAI Ukraine) and Arie Schwartz (partner and CEO at Seven Hills International Development) closed the section with their speeches.

Ukraines tense political situation, which is currently the most significant risk-increasing factor for property development and investment projects, was another pressing issue discussed during the Forum. On the very same day the Forum was held, Ukraines Parliament met and voted to impose martial law in 10 Ukrainian regions. The participants discussed the current situation, shared their opinions and tried to assess all possible risks the industry might face. The experts concluded that businesses were aware of all possible consequences this situation could result in. It is expected that with martial law being imposed, investors will temporarily postpone their plans. However, according to property developers representatives, they will continue working on the projects they have already launched. They are not going to shut down construction and will continue working on all current projects. The attendees agreed that this situation will only influence transactions in the discussion and projects that have not yet been launched.

This year, Flatfy global real estate platform has become the Forums title partner. By tradition, media support was provided by numerous partners, including 112.ua, Property Times, Business Ukraine magazine, Pershyi Dilovyi (First Business) Channel, American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine, AllRetail.ua, AzerNews Newspaper, ZIK TV channel, Belretail.by, Caucasus Business Week - CBW, DCH, DENGI.ua, Delovaya Stolitsa, Economy Today, Finance.ua, LuckyUkraine, minfin.com.ua, My-Kiev, NOI.md, Novoe Vremya, RBK-Ukraine, UBR.ua, Leadership Journey, 100realty.ua, Build Portal, Liga. Net, Kyiv Post, Korrespondent magazine.By Leman Mammadova

The long-term energy cooperation with BP has opened its track to alternative energy sector as well as oil and gas.

Memorandum of Understanding between BP and Energy Ministry will be signed by the end of the year, Bakhtiyar Aslanbayli, BP Azerbaijan's Vice President for Communications, External affairs, Strategy, told AZERTAC.

He also noted that a joint working group will be established for cooperation in the development of the renewable energy sources.

Recently, Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov and BP's Regional President Gary Jones discussed cooperation opportunities in renewable energy sources and proposed to sign a Memorandum of Mutual Understanding.

Minister Parviz Shahbazov said that long-term and efficient cooperation with BP in oil and gas field would be useful in alternative energy sector, noting BPs role in the transition to alternative energy sources.

Speaking about BP's commitment to promoting the future of BP, Jones said there is great potential for renewable energy cooperation, thus its realization will contribute to the increase in energy security, diversification of the economy and usage of gas resources in a higher margin.

During a presentation on Alternative energy opportunities in Azerbaijan, BP's responsible for development of alternative energy business, Marco Candeloro and Head of planning and commercial, Neil Henderson mentioned that renewable energy sources are highly strengthening their positions in the global energy balance as the energy of the future.

According to forecasts, up to 40 percent of the energy demands will be met by renewable energy sources by 2040. It was emphasized that Azerbaijan had the obligation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 as the country signed Paris Agreement.

BP has been operating in the renewable energy sector for more than 20 years. Today BP is one of the best wind and solar power producers in the world although its investments in renewable energy resources are less than oil and gas.

Hydrocarbons, which are the traditional source of energy used by the world for many years, are gradually being run out and, thus, make the use of alternative and renewable energy sources urgent. By 2030, energy demand in the world will increase by 45 percent.

The favorable geographic location and climatic conditions allow the widespread use of environmentally friendly alternative energy sources in Azerbaijan.

Aiming to lessen its dependency on oil, Azerbaijan impelments a number of measures for further development of alternative energy sector.

The State Agency for Alternative and Renewable Energy Sources plans to implement 23 projects worth 13 million manats as part of the strategic roadmap for the development of public services in 2018-2020.

The projects cover the construction of 420 megawatt wind, water and biofuel power plants. The capacity of wind power stations will be 350 megawatts, solar power stations will be 50 megawatts, and biofuel power plants will be equal to 20 megawatts.

In January-September 2018, Azerbaijans power plants generated 17.2 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity that is 1.3 percent more than in the same period of 2017, according to the report of the State Statistics Committee.

Currently, the State Agency for Alternative and Renewable Energy Sources negotiates with a number of foreign investors to finance projects for wind power plants in the Caspian Sea to develop renewable energy supply.

Moreover, "green" power station is expected to be created at the Baku International Sea Trade Port.

It should be noted that Energy Ministry and Norway's Equinor plan to cooperate in alternative and renewable energy sources. This was discussed at a meeting on the status of alternative and renewable energy sources and identification of cooperation opportunities in September 2018.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Narmina Mammadova

Kazakhstans container transit traffic through the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) in January-October 2018 increased by 17.5 times to 2,800 TEU, compared to 160 TEU last year, First Vice Minister of Investment and Development of Kazakhstan Roman Sklyar told Trend.

"For the 10 months, export rail transportation through TITR amounted to 537,400 tons, and import rail transportation  to 254,600 tons," he said.

Sklyar also noted that oil products, grain, metals, coal and chemicals constitute the main freight transported by Kazakhstan via TITR.

"In order to develop the transit and export potential of the country, a network of effective transit transcontinental corridors and routes through Kazakhstan, such as the Northern Trans-Asian Railway, route from China to Central Asia and Persian Gulf countries, North-South Corridor and TITR, was formed and is being implemented," the first vice minister added.

Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Georgia and Ukraine decided to apply the competitive feed-in tariffs for cargo transportation via the TITR in January, 2016. The agreement on creation of the TITR was signed in April 2016 in Baku by the railway authorities of Azerbaijan, Georgia and Kazakhstan. Single competitive rate was introduced in the framework of the route starting from June 1, 2016 with the view to reduce the costs of international cargo transportation.

The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) is intended for the supply of goods both from China to Europe through the territories of Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey, and in the opposite direction. Management and development of the route is carried out by a consortium created by the participating countries: China Railway (China), KTZ Express (Kazakhstan), Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company (the Caspian Sea), ADY Express (Azerbaijan) and Trans Caucasus Terminals (Georgia).

By 2020, 7-8 million tons of cargo are expected to be transported via TITR, bringing huge financial profits to Azerbaijan. Growing interest in the transport infrastructures passing through Azerbaijan's territory is expected to make the country a major transport hub in the region.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Trend

A meeting with Regional Director of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) for Central Asia Neil McKain was held in Turkmenistan, the Turkmen Foreign Ministry said in a message.

According to the message, the sides reviewed the draft strategy for Turkmenistan for 2019-2024 proposed by EBRD.

Moreover, the representatives of the delegations exchanged views on the issues and regional cooperation between Turkmenistan and EBRD, the message said.

As of June, EBRD invested more than 250 million euros in various sectors of the Turkmen economy within 65 investment projects throughout the country and supported more than 200 enterprises within consulting projects.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Abdul Kerimkhanov

Qatars withdrawal from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) could lead to a downtrend in the oil market, Sabit Baghirov, ex-head of Azerbaijan's State Oil Company (SOCAR), well-known economist, told Trend on December 3 commenting on the news of Qatars withdrawal in 2019.

"As you know, oil prices are very volatile and political factors play a role in this. I do not believe that Qatars withdrawal from the OPEC will lead to a domino effect and that OPEC countries are ready for this trend. But it can serve as a certain impetus in this direction, since Qatar is quite an influential country in the energy market," Bagirov said.

Earlier, the Minister of Energy of Qatar Saad Bin Srid Al-Kaabi announced the country's intention to leave OPEC in January 2019.

Commenting on this decision, he noted that Qatar wants to focus on gas production and the production of liquefied natural gas.

"The decision to withdraw from OPEC was not political or related to disagreements with other OPEC member countries. This is a technical decision, due to the desire to strengthen the position of Qatar as a reliable energy supplier in the world, as well as based on the volume of Qatar oil production, said al-Kaabi.

The announcement comes ahead of the meeting by OPEC and its allies including Russia on Dec. 6-7 to discuss cutting supply.

The minister said the decision was not easy as Qatar has been in OPEC for 57 years, but that the countrys impact on OPEC production decisions was small.

He stressed that Doha would continue to abide by all its commitments like any other non-OPEC oil producer.

He noted that Qatar is going to remain the largest supplier of liquefied natural gas in the world.

Currently, Qatar produces about 620,000 barrels of oil per day.

The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is an international intergovernmental association established by oil-producing states to control production quotas. OPEC includes Algeria, Angola, Venezuela, Gabon, Iran, Iraq, Congo, Kuwait, Qatar, Libya, the United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Equatorial Guinea and Ecuador. Members of the organization control about two-thirds of world oil reserves, they account for up to 45 percent of all world production and half of the exports.

OPEC and non-OPEC producers reached an agreement in December 2016 to curtail oil output jointly and ease a global glut after more than two years of low prices. OPEC agreed to slash the output by 1.2 million barrels per day from January 1.

Non-OPEC oil producers such as Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Equatorial Guinea, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Russia, Sudan, and South Sudan agreed to reduce output by 558,000 barrels per day starting from January 1, 2017.

OPEC and its partners decided to extend its production cuts till the end of 2018 in Vienna on November 30, as the oil cartel and its allies step up their attempt to end a three-year supply glut that has savaged crude prices and the global energy industry.

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Abdul Kerimkhanov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @AbdulKerim94

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Trend

Turkey and NATO will discuss regional issues, Turkish ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a message on Dec. 3.

The message noted that in order to discuss regional issues, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu will visit Brussels on December 4-5, 2018.

"Chavusoglu will also take part in the meeting of the foreign ministers of the NATO countries," the message said.

The message noted that the meeting will discuss the decisions taken during the previous NATO foreign ministers' meeting, which took place on July 11-12, 2018.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Trend

The Turkmen parliament has ratified the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea, the Turkmen government said in a message on Dec. 3.

In addition, draft resolutions "On Ratification of the Agreement on the Prevention of Incidents in the Caspian Sea", "On Ratification of the Agreement between the Governments of the Caspian States on Trade and Economic Cooperation" and "On Ratification of the Agreement between the Governments of the Caspian States on Cooperation in the Field of Transport" were adopted.

On Aug. 12, the heads of five Caspian states signed the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea at the 5th Summit of the Heads of Caspian States in Aktau. The Convention is a historic document for the region, the work on which has been carried out for two decades since 1996.

According to the document, it is possible to lay submarine cables and pipelines along the bottom of the Caspian Sea "provided that their designs comply with environmental requirements and standards enshrined in international treaties to which they are parties".

The signing of the Caspian Convention is a historic step towards global energy security. The relevant negotiations have been conducted since 2011 between the interested parties-the EU, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. In particular, the project of laying the Trans-Caspian gas pipeline to the shores of Azerbaijan, from where the Turkmen raw material can be delivered to Turkey and further to Europe, is being promoted.

The Trans-Caspian project can be implemented as part of the EU-lobbied Southern Gas Corridor project. The Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP project in which Turkey and Azerbaijan are involved) or the AGRI (Azerbaijan-Georgia-Romania Interconnector) projects may be useful in this direction.

At the same time, Turkmenistan declared its readiness to supply Europe with up to 40 billion cubic meters of gas annually, of which 10 billion can be provided by the company Petronas (Malaysia), operating in the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea. The rest of the volume can be provided through the East-West gas pipeline, which begins on the largest Turkmen field Galkynysh and ends in the shores of the Caspian Sea.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Abdul Kerimkhanov

Uzbekistan plans to attract over $ 1 billion in the form of private investment to construct solar power plants (SPPs), Uzbek media reported.

A conference for potential investors on the construction of the first solar power plant in the format of a public-private partnership (PPP) was held in Tashkent. Representatives of 22 major energy companies and international financial organizations arrived in Uzbekistan to participate in it.

The first pilot power plant under PPP conditions with a capacity of up to 100 MW is planned to be built in the Navoi region. This is only the first phase of the initiative to bring the total capacity of photovoltaic plants to 1,000 MW.

"Potential investors were provided with information on the legal aspects of the project to launch a solar power plant on a PPP basis. It was noted that investors are planned to be selected by a transparent and competitive tender, they will be able to conclude a land lease agreement, as well as a concession agreement, to exploit and use the main assets of the power plant," the State Investment Committee said.

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) signed an agreement with the Government of Uzbekistan to attract private sector investment in the renewable energy sector of Uzbekistan in May 2018.

IFC acts as a consultant to the government and Uzbekenergo on the structuring of PPP, with the aim of mobilizing experience in attracting private investment for the construction and operation of a 100 MW solar power plant in the Navoi region.

The joint project of IFC, the State Committee on Investments and JSC "Uzbekenergo" aim to attract more than $ 1 billion in private investment in the development of solar photovoltaic stations.

This will allow not only to improve the energy supply of the country but also to create a transparent and simplified mechanism for attracting investments, aimed further at the implementation of investment projects in other industries.

Earlier, Uzbekistan announced its plans to build five solar photovoltaic stations with a total capacity of 500 MW and a preliminary cost of more than $1.1 billion by 2021. Experts estimate that the total potential of solar energy in the republic exceeds 51 billion tons of oil equivalent.

Uzbekistan is the largest electricity producer in Central Asia. Total installed capacity of Uzbekistans power plants exceeds 12.4 GW. Twelve thermal power plants, with a combined capacity of over 10.7 GW, and 31 hydro power plants, with a combined capacity of 1.7 GW, belonging to the Uzbekenergo, the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources, the Mining and Metallurgical Company Almalyk and the Uzkhimprom Association, constitute the backbone of the electricity sector.

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Abdul Kerimkhanov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @AbdulKerim94

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAzBy Trend

Austrian ambassador to Tehran Stefan Schulz has said the European Union will support and follow Irans interests according to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

We are trying to develop cooperation between Iran and the European Union, Schulz said during his trip to the Iranian city of Hamadan, IRNA reported.

In addition to finding potential partners, we will follow the political goals as well, Schulz, who calls himself an EU representative in Iran, stated.

The ambassador had meetings during his two-day trip to Hamadan to discuss cooperation in tourism, culture and economy.

The province of Hamadan is on the route of the Silk Road; we will introduce this province to Austrian and European investors, he said.

Austria tends to establish small and medium-sized companies in green tourism, develop cultural cooperation and private sector, Schulz added. Austria lacks oil and mineral resources, and its only capital is the human resources that create 90 percent of its revenues. We stand as a partner beside Iran and are trying to develop private sector in this country.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz"The East Asian Seas Congress broke new ground."

Confidence, optimism and determination reigned in Iloilo City last Thursday, 29 November 2018, as the 2018 East Asian Seas Congress concluded. After three days of events and sessions that brought together various ocean stakeholders from 19 countries across the region, the closing ceremony was attended by ministers and other high-level officials from the partner countries of the Partnership for the Environmental Management of the Seas of East Asia. These included leaders from Cambodia, China, East Timor, Indonesia, Republic of Korea (South Korea), Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (North Korea), Japan, Lao Peoples Democratic Republic, Myanmar, Philippines, and Singapore. On the last day of the EAS Congress, the ministerial representatives from these countries also signed the Iloilo Declaration, entitled East Asian Region Moving As One to Secure Healthy Oceans, People and Economies. Through this declaration, governments in the region committed to intensifying its actions to save our coasts and oceans. Among others, the Iloilo Declaration acknowledges the significant value and critical contribution of coastal and marine ecosystems goods and services to securing food and jobs; helping to eradicate poverty and building resilient coastal communities and blue economies in the East Asian region. It points out that: Juxtaposed against these opportunities is the vulnerability of the region to climate change and other environmental threats such as marine-related disasters, destruction and loss of habitats and natural coastlines, biodiversity loss and degradation, overfishing and lack of food security, pollution from land and sea-based sources, and impairment of water quality, water supply and water security. The ministerial representatives did not hesitate to take responsibility for the environmental management and sustainable development of our seas and oceans, including coastal areas: The biggest threat that we face in the region is ourselves, in the way we live our lives and the way we manage our resources. We therefore strongly urge everyone to shift towards a mindset of responsible stewardship, and pledge to take bold steps to protect, manage and restore our coasts and oceans for our present and future generations. PEMSEA Country Partners are ready to engage citizens in East Asia and peoples in other regions to work together to secure our shared vision of healthy oceans, people and economy. While reiterating commitments made in earlier Congresses, the Iloilo Declaration also broke new ground on addressing issues like marine litter, sustainable tourism, coastal and marine hazards, and climate change. The Ministers stated: We acknowledge the current strong momentum to tackle marine debris globally. We commit to significantly reducing or preventing marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based and sea-based activities, including marine litter and nutrient pollution. We commit to implementing policies and programs for the sustainable management of coastal tourism destinations. If properly planned and managed, coastal tourism will benefit the environment, the people and the economy. Sustainable tourism planning not only considers social, environmental and economic impacts within the tourist area or facility itself, but also the impacts on the host coastal community, including livelihoods, water and food security, solid waste disposal, water pollution and social and environmental factors.We realize the critical importance of regional collaboration in dealing with coastal and marine hazards such as storm surges and tsunamis. We commit to working together to adopt innovative strategies to raise awareness and build regional capacity to monitor, forecast and provide timely early warnings to support safety of life and property at sea, coastal management and minimization of impact of such hazards. We recognize that we are all parties to the Paris Agreement and the UNFCCC and aware of the urgency and seriousness of the threat of climate change to the sustainable development of our countries and region; We commit to implement adaptation and mitigation strategies to respond to climate change. PEMSEA Executive Director Aimee Gonzales said the ministerial declaration was not just an outcome of the Congress. According to her, It is actually our marching orders to move forward and actually develop a work plan. So we will develop a work plan in the next three years and we already have a draft. We just need to refine it a bit so that we could focus on the seven priority areas that are actually also in our shared development strategy for us to fine-tune it also. They will be reporting the progress from the Iloilo Declaration during their next Congress in 2021, Gonzales added. There was also a second Iloilo Declaration, adopted and issued by the newly inaugurated PEMSEA Network of Young Leaders Council. Its elected Captain, John Carl Alonsagay, read the statement declaring that the youth delegates commitment to build a better future for the region. PNYL Council members, representing the PEMSEA country partners, each presented a letter of hope they had written to their countrys respective minister. During the closing ceremony of the EAS Congress, the participants listened to a video message by United Nations Special Envoy for the Oceans, Ambassador Peter Thomson. Thompson emphasized the importance of giving particular attention to the connection between land- based activities and that of the oceans, urging, participants to not be weighed down by the issues discussed, but rather energized by the solutions offered by the EAS Congress. Thompson echoed DENR Secretary Roy A. Cimatus opening speech when he said the EAS Congress is an opportune time to strengthen partnerships in the region through the sharing of initiatives and best practices on integrated coastal and river management (ICM) that will help manage and protect marine life and promote a blue economy. Cimatu added that a blue economy does not only consider business revenues. More importantly, it considers how the proper use and care of marine resources can provide employment and food security to many people. The EAS Congress was also a celebration of PEMSEAs 25 years of good work in the region. The Province and City of Iloilo did not spare any expense to make the conference successful, including hosting a conference dinner and a ministerial banquet, featuring the best of Iloilos dancers and rondalla ensemble. The DENR was also an excellent host. In addition to participating extensively in the substantive work, our colleagues in the department walked an extra mile to make the Congress successful. I was particularly impressed by the quality of the liaison officers they provided to ensure that participants would be guided throughout the three days. As the current Chair of the PEMSEA Partnership Council, I look forward to the work ahead of us to secure healthy oceans, peoples, and economies, in our region. It will not take us another twenty-five years as long as we act and move as one.By Trend

Turkey is planning to create a naval base in Northern Cyprus, Turkish media reported Dec. 3.

The reports note that the issue was discussed against the backdrop of tensions between Greece and Turkey in the Mediterranean.

The naval base is expected to be established in early 2019, the reports said.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has earlier said that Turkey can establish a naval base in Northern Cyprus, if necessary.

He noted that the presence of the Turkish armed forces in the territory is very important.

"Turkey does not intend to reduce its military contingent in Northern Cyprus," Erdogan said.

He noted that the plan of the West to solve the problem of Cyprus has not justified itself.

"The EU has also attempted to apply double standards in relation to the Turkish Cyprus," he said.

Earlier, foreign media also reported that Turkey intends to establish a military base in Northern Cyprus.

Turkey has military bases in Somalia and Qatar currently.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz"President Duterte made promises in 2016. We are still waiting."

Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo, in an effort to defend his boss attacks on the Catholic Church, says Mr. Dutertes words are his personal opinion and not official statements. Panelo forgets that whenever the President opens his mouth, whatever he says is official. Panelo insults our intelligence! Now the President wants to kill all the drug addicts, some 3 million or 4 million of them. Would that not amount to genocide? I am sure Panelo will say that the President was only expressing his frustration at illegal drugs, which does not seem to end. But the Police may take him seriously and pursue all drug addicts as criminals and enemies of the state! So why does the drug problem persist, despite the administrations efforts to end it? Why are illegal shipments still coming in from other countries? Didnt the President promise to end the menace? That promise resonated with the people. He won by a good plurality and his popularity hit the ceiling. But Id like to ask: Has change come? Sadly, no. The problem is that President Duterte considers the drug problem as a peace and order issue, such that whoever is involved in it must be terminated with extreme prejudice. But its the wrong approach. The drug problem is a health issue. And it can be explained simply by the law of supply and demand. I used to be vice president of the DARE Foundation, the rehabilitation center of former priest Bob Garon. I know for a fact that you can only help drug addicts and users by rehabilitating them, and you can only address the problem by cutting the supply of drugs. President Duterte is only now finding out that corruption seems embedded in government, especially at Customs and the Bureau of Internal Revenue. These are agencies where a lot of human discretion and intervention take place. * * * All congressional inquiries should be in aid of legislation. Our lawmakers were not elected by the people to act as investigators.Has anybody counted how many laws have been crafted or amended as a result of congressional probes? This is why I am glad that House Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has clamped down on congressional investigations. First, whoever files a resolution to investigate something must first seek what laws can be drafted as a result of such inquiry. The Speaker knows too well how investigations can be used for harassment and browbeating. For example, what laws were made when the Senate investigated the killing of 44 members of the Special Action Force in Mamasapano, Maguindanao? How about the Dengvaxia controversy? Drug smuggling at Customs? My, its about time that grandstanding members of Congress are stopped from harassing resource persons through probes that lead nowhere. Lets hope that Senate President Tito Sotto agrees with Rep. Arroyo. * * * A recent survey on the Binay-versus-Binay phenomenon in Makati City simply validates what I have been sayingthat Mayor Abby will win because she is doing as excellent job. Sixty-seven percent of those surveyed said they would vote for Abby; just 20 percent will vote for her brother, Junjun. For vice mayor, Monique Lagdameo got 83 percent while Monsour del Rosario, Jun-juns running mate, only got 9 percent of the votes. There are two things that I think Mayor Abby is doing very well. First is her plan to give citizens 90 years old and over a lump sum or P10,000. There will be a P5,000 bonus for Makati residents holding the Blue Card. The other is the 10-kilometer subway around Makati. This is groundbreaking! Project is set to be completed at 2022. * * * Do your Christmas shopping now. My wife, who is always the wise one in the family, has completed her shopping as early as September.Contact The Californians Robert Price at 661-395-7399, rprice@bakersfield.com or on Twitter: @stubblebuzz. His column appears on Sundays, Wednesdays and Saturdays; the views expressed are his own.You can reach Sam Morgen at 661-395-7415 or smorgen@bakersfield.com. You may also follow him on Twitter @smorgenTBC.April Bertrand was holding her daughter's bleeding head with one hand and frantically calling 911 with the other.

"I love you, your mom's here," she said repeatedly to Alexandria, 16, whose body had been ejected from their vehicle during a Feb. 7, 2014, car crash. "Keep breathing, keep fighting," she urged.

Alexandria died that Friday night, and her mother found herself reliving the wreck's "war zone" aftermath on Tuesday morning as she testified in the same Orange County courtroom where Kelvin Lee Roy had been convicted of murder in the case four years ago. It was the same courtroom where a jury sentenced him to 75 years in prison.

Bertrand was back because the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals last spring overturned Roy's conviction on the grounds that the trial judge should have instructed the jury to consider a lesser charge of intoxication manslaughter in addition to murder.

His attorney, Ryan Gertz, asked the jury to consider whether Roy "consciously desired" to cause injury or whether he was acting recklessly.

"There's a word for that," he said. "Manslaughter."

PREVIOUSLY: Court overturns Beaumont man's murder conviction of Vidor teen

Broken glass and debris were everywhere, Bertrand recalled from the witness stand after her 911 call recording played in court. The family's now-crumpled Honda minivan had been "sheared" on the right side by Roy's vehicle when it jumped the railroad tracks at Main Street and Old U.S. 90 in Vidor, court testimony showed. Alexandria, Bertrand's firstborn, had been in the passenger seat.

Orange County prosecutors again are pursuing a murder charge against Roy, 36, of Beaumont. If he is convicted of intoxication manslaughter this time, he could face up to 20 years in prison, though state law also says he could receive 15 to 99 years if it is proven during trial that he had previously been convicted of a felony.

Bertrand died because of Roy's "intent and conscious desire to cause injury to himself and Taralynn Brown," prosecutor Krispen Walker said in her opening statement Tuesday.

Brown, Roy's then-girlfriend and passenger in the white Mercury Sable that hit the Bertrands' vehicle, testified that Roy lit a dipped cigarette as the pair were driving to get food that Friday night.

Roy's blood sample, taken immediately after the accident, tested positive for marijuana, PCP and alcohol. His blood-alcohol content was 0.015, below the legal limit of 0.08, according to a Jefferson County Crime Lab toxicologist.

Brown described Roy's driving slowly along Interstate 10 heading toward the Vidor exit, drifting between lanes and ignoring the honks of passing 18-wheelers.

"I was more scared than mad," she said.

Brown testified that she begged Roy to slow down as their vehicle approached cars stopped at the red light on the other side of the train tracks. Instead, she said, Roy told her that he was "going to kill both of us" as he "mashed on the gas."

"The last thing I remember, we flew over the train tracks and a whole bunch of crashing," Brown said. "That's all I can remember after that."

Witnesses testified on Tuesday that they saw exposed bone in Brown's right leg that night. Brown stayed at a local hospital for two months following the crash.

Roy "intended to cause injury to Taralynn Brown," Walker contended. Therefore, she said, he "not recklessly, but intentionally murdered Alexandria Bertrand."

Gertz acknowledged that the facts of the case are "disturbing and troubling" and that the trial won't be a "whodunit." But he called upon the jury to "set aside the sympathy we feel for the family that my client caused" and urged the eight men and four women jurors "to look at the facts and compare them to what the law says."

Roy, who "has no recollection of accelerating" the vehicle, "doesn't get to walk out of here scot-free because he was on PCP," Gertz said.

Roy's second trial was set to begin in June but state District Judge Dennis Powell declared a mistrial, saying that "there were too many folks that had heard about the case" and had made up their minds about his guilt.

Gertz requested a change of venue on June 11, citing pervasive media coverage and a "shocking" number of jurors who had knowledge of the case.

Prior to the start of testimony, Gertz also argued that "none of the people seated (on the jury) were African-American" and that the all-white jury was "not sufficiently similar to the makeup of Orange County."

Orange County is 87.7 percent white and 8.8 percent African-American, data from the U.S. Census Bureau show.

A larger jury pool, made of 78 potential jurors compared to June's pool of 50, was interviewed throughout the day on Monday, court coordinator Jennifer Fleming said.

Powell denied the change of venue request on Tuesday morning.Members of Congress will soon begin studying the 1,800-page agreement that would replace NAFTA, and we wish them good luck with that dreary holiday read. If the new agreement is worth supporting  and its probably is better than nothing  House and Senate members from Texas should take the lead in getting it approved. Why Texas? Because our state will be affected by this treaty more than virtually any other.

No single state has large volumes of trade with Canada, even though the nation as a whole does. And while our entire country also has a great deal of trade with Mexico, Texas has a significant amount of cross-border commerce that must continue in one form or another.Apple Inc. plans to hold off until at least 2020 before offering an iPhone that can connect to the next generation of high-speed phone services coming next year, according to people familiar with its plans.

The delay may make it easier for rivals like Samsung Electronics Co. to win over consumers to phones that connect to 5G networks, which will provide a leap forward in mobile data speeds when they are introduced in 2019.

As with 3G and 4G, the two previous generations of mobile technology, Apple will wait as long as a year after the initial deployment of the new networks before its main product gets the capability to access them, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing the companys plans.

MARKET CAP: Microsoft surpasses Apple as most valuable public company

Apples previous calculations -- proven correct -- were that the new networks and the first versions of rival smartphones would come with problems such as spotty coverage, making consumers less compelled to immediately make the jump. This time, 5G boosters argue the switch is a much bigger speed upgrade, making Apples decision to wait riskier. The networks will open the floodgates to new types of mobile computing, 5G advocates say.

The decision to sit on the sidelines may be related to the companys feud with Qualcomm Inc., the leader in 5G-enabled chips, and its alliance instead with Intel Corp., which wont have chips available in time to support 2019 phones.

Apple didnt respond to requests for comment.

In the past, it hasnt been a problem for the Cupertino, California-based company to wait a year after much of its competition to release phones compatible with the latest wireless networks. The original iPhone in 2007 was so far ahead of rivals that its slower connection, known as 2G EDGE, wasnt a deal breaker for early adopters. Even the iPhone 4S with its flashy features like a stainless steel frame and the promise of Siri were enough for some to ignore its lack of true 4G LTE speeds.

But going into 2019, the stakes have changed: the leap from 4G to 5G is significant enough that it may become a major selling point for new devices. Samsung plans to have 5G phones in its Galaxy range next year. And in China -- the largest market for smartphones -- major producers Oppo and Huawei Technologies Co. also have indicated they plan to offer 5G phones.

LATEST iPHONES: The iPhone XS and XS Max review: Bigger is definitely better

Apple has always been a laggard in cellular technology, said Mark Hung, an analyst at Gartner Inc. They werent impacted in the past, but 5G is going to be much easier to market. But if they wait beyond 2020, then I think theyll be impacted.

Apple also is under more pressure to keep its iPhone customer base. The company has lost a fifth of its value the past two months amid a tech stock rout and reports of suppliers cutting forecasts, signaling the new models introduced in September arent selling as well as anticipated. While the global smartphone market has declined for four consecutive quarters, according to industry analyst IDC, the iPhone accounts for almost 60 percent of Apples revenue and is the foundation of the companys push for sales in consumer services such as music, video and cloud storage.

Wireless carriers like Verizon Communications Inc. and AT&T Inc. are likely to prioritize the marketing of 5G phones in order to get customers to migrate over as soon as possible. The new networks will take advantage of a greater range of radio frequencies and be capable of carrying much higher-speed data. That provides an incentive to move traffic to the speedier networks because it will lower the costs for the wireless carriers. Think of the difference in the number of cars a multi-lane freeway can accommodate versus a single-lane regular road.

To be sure, for some existing Apple customers, the lack of 5G connectivity next year wont be a deterrent. A portion of consumers upgrade their current iPhones to the new models regardless of the changes to the device. Given that hardware upgrade cycles are slowing overall, a 2020 launch for 5G could create a super cycle of upgrades from iPhone users who would still be using an iPhone X or XS two years from now.

Since 2011, Apple has debuted all major new iPhone models in either September or October. The company, however, has released mid-cycle updates like the Verizon iPhone 4 in February 2011, geared toward specific networks. It also launched a smaller model, the iPhone SE, in March 2016.

Huawei and Samsung can build 5G modems -- not just Intel and Qualcomm. But Apple is unlikely to use chips from competitors, and the companies may also struggle to produce enough supply for the iPhones huge volumes -- more than 200 million a year.

2018 Bloomberg L.P.

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.Former Wisconsin anesthesiologist John Kidd, MD, surrendered his state license in 2012 amid several allegations against him, then moved to New York, where he practices with a clean record, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports.

Here's what happened:

1. Dr. Kidd was an anesthesiologist with Appleton, Wis.-based Association of Hospital Anesthesiologists. He was fired in 2010, after a series of allegations were brought against him.

2. Dr. Kidd allegedly did not help a physician and nurse who rushed to the aid of a pediatric patient having trouble breathing; did not respond to a patient who complained of pain after having a limb amputated; and came to work impaired and smelling of alcohol. He also faces several other allegations.

3. The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services investigated the allegations for 18 months but found no reason to reprimand Dr. Kidd.

4. Despite that, Dr. Kidd surrendered his license and agreed to not reapply for it. The Journal Sentinel called the measure "a step some doctors take to avoid a blemish on their public record."

5. Dr. Kidd was granted a New York state license in September 2011. The Wisconsin allegations are not present anywhere in his record. He is one of about 250 physicians in the country who surrendered a license in one state since 2012 but continue to practice in another state.

For more details, click here.El Paso (Texas) Specialty Hospital, a physician-owned facility, will close at the end of the year for financial and operational reasons, according to a KFOXTV report.

A statement made to the publication says the hospital aims to support employees during the transition and provide severance packages. The hospital is owned by local physicians in partnership with Surgery Partners and provides a variety of orthopedic services as well as emergency care, weight loss surgery and abdominal and gynecological surgery.



The closing may have been unexpected for some providers and staff. As recently as August, the hospital was adding physicians. Orthopedic surgeon Zachary Lovato, DO, joined the hospital in August as a fellowship-trained adult spinal deformity and reconstruction surgeon, according to the El Paso Herald-Post.



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CMS posts payments for ASCs vs. HOPDsMedicare pays ASCs $359 less for colonoscopy, $1,092 less for knee arthroscopy

What Amazon's new language processing service means for coding6 takeaways

Advocate Aurora Health will hike minimum wage to $15 an hour4 insights



The Arcadia Energetics 4-H Club held a toy drive for the pediatric patients of Carroll, Iowa-based St. Anthony Regional Hospital's emergency department, surgery center and clinic, CBC Online reports.

Here's what you should know:

1. The 4-H club collected the toys over a six-week period starting in October.

2. They ended the drive with 145 stuffed animals, 59 coloring books and an array of other toys.

3. The 4-Hers also worked at a local restaurant chain to raise money to purchase additional gifts for the toy drive.

4. Arcadia Energetics Club President Rachel Steinkamp said, "We are proud of the progress we made in only our second year of collecting toys and doing this service project."Despite a stable outlook on the healthcare sector for 2019, Fitch Ratings expects healthcare pricing and profit margins to be under pressure next year, according to the rating agency's 2019 Outlook Report.

"Most disruptive threats to healthcare business models boil down to an attack on pricing power, including outside industry competitive upstarts, government price setting and consumer and employer efforts to force lower pricing," said Megan Neuburger, managing director at Fitch. "Of all of these, the government policy aspect poses the greatest threat since it is the farthest reaching. That said, we think that radical changes to the current system are unlikely."

Fitch said credit rating downgrades outweighed upgrades during 2018, and that pattern is likely to continue next year.

The rating agency highlighted several other trends to watch in 2019, including the ongoing political debate around access to and affordability of care, regulatory efforts to curtail growth in drug pricing, and litigation surrounding the healthcare industry's role in the opioid epidemic.

More articles on healthcare finance:

Tower Health attributes operating loss to Epic install, acquisition costs

New Medicare rates could boost lab costs by $11B, GAO warns

Cleveland Clinic's operating income jumps 76% in Q3The former pharmacy director of Omaha, Neb.-based Children's Hospital and Medical Center is being investigated by the state's attorney general in the embezzlement of over $4.43 million, according to WOWT News.

According to the attorney general's office, beginning in 2012, Lisa Kwapniowski began falsifying invoices for a fake drug called Broxcilam to a company called RxSYnergy, which she created.

2016 and 2017 were Ms. Kwapniowski's most profitable years, as she submitted $1.1 million in false claims during both. Hospital administrators learned of the embezzlement this year and terminated Ms. Kwapniowski while turning the matter over to authorities, WOWT News reported.Four CIOs from hospitals and health systems across the country discuss information they've discovered from their respective patient populations and the most surprising revelations.

Q: What is one thing you've learned about your patient population that's really surprised you?

Christopher Longhurst, MD, MS. CIO and Associate CMO of Quality and Patient Safety at UC San Diego Health: How eager patients are to participate and be fully engaged in their own healthcare. Data from our EHR system has shown that our patients access the system more often every week and every month than our own staff and providers. Patients are an underutilized resource in healthcare today. An emphasis on transparency and access, enabled by health IT, is critical to helping patients take charge of their own health.

For example, we rolled out our Open Notes initiative to provide patients in our ambulatory settings with their provider's visit notes. The initiative, led by Marlene Millen, MD, CMIO of ambulatory and practice affiliations at UC San Diego Health, allows patients to make informed decisions and have better discussions about their healthcare.

To address access, our MyUCSDChart app helps anyone who downloads it to find urgent or express care locations with walk-in access and use our 'Save My Spot' feature at these locations. UC San Diego Health patients can also use the app to communicate with their care team, view test results  including all radiology results  manage prescriptions, view and pay bills and schedule different appointments and screenings, including annual mammograms.

To read the full interview, click here.

Peter Marks, PhD, CIO and Vice President at WakeMed Health & Hospitals (Raleigh, N.C.): In our deployment of electronic patient engagement tools where patients can work more directly with our health system, we found the patients that most often use this technology are over the age of 60. The conventional wisdom is that the younger population will be the primary consumer of patient engagement technology. They certainly use technology to engage. However, people of all ages want a deeper relationship with their healthcare team, and our population of patients over 60 is a prime consumer of electronic methods to engage with us.

To read the full interview, click here.

Philip Loftus, PhD, CIO at SSM Health (St. Louis): For me, what's most surprising about patients is how very interested they are in electronic access to their health record. It began years ago with lab test results. Next was the ability of our patients with chronic conditions to track results of their blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol levels, etc., over time. Today, electronic access enables new functionality that allows our patients to easily schedule or re-schedule appointments, pay their bills or copays and securely message their doctor or other clinical staff. In fact, about half of our patients take advantage of electronic access to their health records, an amount that has exceeded my expectations.

Another surprise is that while you expect the millennials to be primary users of electronic records, which is definitely true, the second largest contingent is our older retired patients. It turns out seniors are much more sophisticated when it comes to technology and more likely to use it than many would suspect, and that's been an eye-opening revelation.

To read the full interview, click here.

Bernie Clement, CIO at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center (Thibodaux, La.): If you make healthy solutions accessible, they will utilize them. Our community is relatively small  14,000 in Thibodaux  but our wellness center, which opened two years ago, has more than 5,000 members. We need to make healthy choices as easy as unhealthy ones.

To read the full interview, click here.

To learn more about clinical and IT leadership, register for the Becker's Hospital Review 2nd Annual Health IT + Clinical Leadership Conference May 2-4, 2019 in Chicago. Click here to learn more and register.



To participate in future Becker's Q&As, contact Jackie Drees at jdrees@beckershealthcare.com.UnityPoint Health's Trinity Regional Medical Center in Fort Dodge, Iowa, selected Leah Glasgo to serve as president and CEO, effective Jan. 28, 2019, according to The Messenger.

Here are five things to know:

1. Ms. Glasgo currently serves as COO of UnityPoint Health's St. Luke's Regional Medical Center in Sioux City, Iowa.

2. She joined West Des Moines, Iowa-based UnityPoint Health in 2013 as vice president of rural development for the Fort Dodge and Sioux City regions.

3. She previously served as president and CEO of Stewart Memorial Community Hospital in Lake City, Iowa.

4. Ms. Glasgo holds a master's degree in healthcare administration from Des Moines (Iowa) University.

5. She succeeds Mike Dewerff, who transitioned into the senior vice president and CFO role at UnityPoint Health-Des Moines (Iowa).As part of a restructuring effort, Boise, Idaho-based St. Luke's Health System will replace top administrators at five facilities with dual COO-CNO roles, according to an internal memo cited by The Idaho Statesman.

St. Luke's Health System eliminated site administrator positions in Nampa, McCall, Mountain Home, Ketchum and Jerome, all based in Idaho. To take their place, the organization will establish a dual COO-CNO role.

The COO-CNO "will be assuming interim responsibility for day-to-day operations, reporting to population health vice presidents," the memo to staff reads.

The dual COO-CNO role will become a staple in every facility, except for St. Luke's hospital in Boise, which will keep split leadership because the facility is much larger and more complex, according to the memo.

The decision to make a dual role comes as the health system transitions from fee-for-service to a population health model.

Transforming means "looking at components of the health system as cost centers, instead of profit centers as they have existed under fee-for-service," the memo states.



Hospital leaders will continue to meet with team members throughout December to discuss the changes and relay information about the new design structure.

St. Luke's Health System CEO David Pate, MD, said he expects the adjustments to be made by the end of January. Fine-tuning the COO-CNO role will continue through spring.Missouri Gov. Mike Parson will begin a tour of the state Dec. 4 to address top healthcare concerns of his constituents, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

The four-day trip will include stops in Jefferson City, Kansas City, St. Louis and the governor's hometown of Bolivar, where he will hold a summit on issues facing rural hospitals. Other topics to be addressed on the tour include opioid abuse and insurance costs.

Though many residents have called for Missouri to expand Medicaid coverage to help rural hospitals, the governor's administration said it is looking for other ways to support the facilities.

"We need to be innovative in our approach to strengthen, improve and support our rural hospitals," said Randall Williams, MD, director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.A former Grand Forks, N.D.-based Altru Health System physician filed a lawsuit against the hospital Nov. 20, claiming the hospital system discriminated against him because he is a Scientologist, according to The Bismarck Tribune.

Here are six things to know:

1. Ralph Highshaw, MD, worked as a urologist at Altru Health System from 2013-16. He filed a complaint against the health system Nov. 20, claiming the system "engaged in unlawful employment practices," violated his civil rights, retaliated against him and forced him to resign because of his religion, the report states.

2. Dr. Highshaw alleged several instances of discrimination by the system and its providers, according to court documents obtained by The Bismarck Tribune. He was placed on five-month review by the system in August 2014 because of complications related to patient surgeries he worked on, according to the lawsuit and documents filed with the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights obtained by the publication.

3. Documents suggest Dr. Highshaw faced additional scrutiny for his surgery practices in July 2015, and his patient list was cut down in 2016. He was placed on administrative leave later that year. Dr. Highshaw also claimed in the Nov. 20 complaint that Altru Health System threatened to fire him if he failed to attend a behavioral health program for "workplace consulting services," despite his claims the program violated his Scientologist beliefs. Dr. Highshaw resigned shortly after.

4. The Nov. 20 complaint comes on the heels of an investigation by the state labor and human rights department, which said in August the agency did not find evidence indicating Altru Health System discriminated against Dr. Highshaw on the basis of religion. Dr. Highshaw filed a complaint with the department in January 2017.

5. Altru Health System denied any discrimination against Dr. Highshaw because of his religion to the labor and human rights department, claiming instead the "concern that Altru Health System had with Dr. Highshaw was with his performance and not with his religious beliefs," the report states. The system claimed Dr. Highshaw had poor organizational skills, made medical errors and "[used] nonstandard and sometimes questionable surgery techniques," among other complaints.

6. Altru Health System has faced other claims of religious discrimination in recent years. A Muslim physician at the institution filed a complaint with the state labor department against Altru Health System in January 2017 claiming the system did not treat foreign-born and Muslim employees as well as its American and Christian staff. The claim was dismissed by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in December 2017.

To access the full report, click here.

Editor's note: Becker's Hospital Review reached out to Altru Health System for comment and will update the report as more information becomes available.Roberto Cavalli Group, one of Italys major fashion houses, has signed a deal to begin business in Bahrain.

Roberto Cavalli will deploy its know-how in luxury interior decoration in the little kingdom where it has been assigned to furnish 247 waterfront apartments located in the Waterbay luxury high-rise. The units will be on sale next month, with one costing up to 2.2 million.

The deal, signed with Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company, makes the Gulf country the second country in the region through the real estate sector where the Italian group will operate.

In October, UAEs DICO International, the strategic investment arm of DAMAC Properties Chairman and founder, Hussain Sajwani, signed a hospitality partnership with Roberto Cavalli Group. The Italian fashion brand will according to the partnership design the interior of DAMAC Properties AYKON Hotels located in Dubai.

Last year, the Italian Fashion House signed with the Emirati group a deal to launch the worlds first villas to feature Roberto Cavalli interiors, marking the renowned brands entry into real estate.A nurse practitioner pleaded guilty Nov. 27 to conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud for her role in a $65.7 million scheme that involved prescribing expensive compounded medications to Tricare beneficiaries, according to the Department of Justice.

As part of her guilty plea, Candace Craven, NP, admitted she conducted sham telemedicine evaluations that resulted in the prescription of the compounded medications to patients she never examined in person.

A team of people allegedly recruited and paid Marines to obtain compounded medications that would be paid for by Tricare. Their information was sent to Choice MD, a medical clinic in Tennessee that employed Ms. Craven. She then conducted phone calls with the Tricare beneficiaries and recommended they be prescribed compounded medications. The prescriptions were signed by physicians and sent directly to pharmacies controlled by co-conspirators, according to the Justice Department.

Ms. Craven was the seventh defendant charged for her role in the fraud scheme. She is scheduled to be sentenced Feb. 8.

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Man used fake name to harass Indiana hospital CEO, criticize CHS on FacebookParadise, Calif.-based Adventist Health Feather River Hospital, a 101-bed facility that sustained significant damage during the deadly California Camp Fire in early November, plans to reopen "no matter what," according to the Chico Enterprise-Record.

The news comes just days after reports surfaced that the $64 million hospital may not reopen after assessing the damages.

The hospital's infrastructure was severely damaged, several units sustained water damage and the lower level offices were destroyed. However, hospital spokesperson Jill Kinney told the Chico Enterprise-Record, "We are reopening."

The hospital's cancer center, outpatient surgery center, emergency department, maternity ward and one large clinic are still standing, she added.

There is still no timeline for when Feather River Hospital will reopen its facilities, but Ms. Kinney said the hospital remains committed to providing healthcare services in Paradise.Broward Sheriff's Office deputies shot and killed a patient at University Hospital in Tamarac, Fla., on Dec. 1.

A spokesperson for the sheriff's office told WPLG deputies were dispatched to the hospital after hospital staff reported that Jarvis Randall, a 30-year-old patient, was violent and threatening other people with a sharp weapon. Deputies said the patient was demonstrating threatening behavior when they arrived.

Deputies used a bean-bag gun to try to subdue Mr. Randall, but they said that did not work. Mr. Randall then charged the deputies, and three of them fired their weapons at the patient, the sheriff's office spokesperson told WPLG.

Mr. Randall was taken to Broward Health North in Deerfield Beach, Fla., where he was pronounced dead, according to the report.

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Cape Valley system to close North Carolina urgent care centerNashville, Tenn.-based HCA Healthcare closed Sister Emmanuel Hospital, a Miami-based long-term care hospital, Dec. 1.

A Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act filed in October said the hospital closure would affect 97 employees. At that time, the hospital said some of the employees could transfer to other HCA facilities.

"There are a number of open positions within our affiliated facilities in the area, and we believe most of our affected employees will find employment opportunities," Sister Emmanuel Hospital said in a letter accompanying its Oct. 3 WARN notice.

Sister Emmanuel Hospital had a 90.1 percent occupancy rate in 2017 and recorded a $152,210 profit on net revenue of $12.1 million, according to the South Florida Business Journal, which cited information from the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration.

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6 recent hospital ward, unit closures and service terminationsRetroactive denial policies for emergency room care, such as the one Anthem rolled out in several states, place a financial burden on patients and prevent them from seeking care, according to a Doctor-Patient Rights Project study.

Here are seven things to know:

1. The study found many patients' claims for ER care are denied retroactively because the insurer deems the visit "avoidable." The report specifically addresses Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield's retroactive denial policy.

2. Anthem denied more than 12,000 emergency care claims from patients in Missouri, Georgia and Kentucky in the second half of 2017 on the grounds they were "avoidable." The denials reflected about 5.8 percent of total ER claims submitted in the three states during this period. However, when patients challenged the denials, Anthem proceeded to reverse itself and pay the claims most of the time.

3. Under Anthem's policy, it may deny claims for ER visits it has deemed unwarranted or nonemergent. However, there are several exceptions to the policy, including ER visits for policyholders under age 14 and patients with physician referrals to the ER. Data from the American College of Emergency Room Physicians provided to The New York Times suggest denials plummeted to nearly zero after the exceptions were added.

4. Emergency care denials leave patients with medical debt that can deter them from seeking care for other health issues, according to the Doctor-Patient Rights Project. The report cited a 2016 Kaiser Family Foundation survey that found 31 percent of households with medical debt failed to properly treat other health problems as a result. The KFF survey also found that families with medical debt are up to three times more likely to delay or skip healthcare than families without medical debt.

5. "By retroactively denying coverage for emergency visits based on a patient's diagnosis and not his or her symptoms, insurers are expecting patients to play doctor and diagnose themselves when they're potentially facing a life-threatening medical event," Vidor Friedman, MD, president of the American College of Emergency Physicians, said in a press release.

6. Dr. Friedman argues the retroactive denial policies violate the "prudent layperson standard," which is part of federal law and requires insurers to cover patients who have symptoms suggestive of an emergency.

7. Anthem continues to stand behind its controversial policy. In a statement to The New York Times in July, Anthem said it remains committed to its avoidable ER policy "because the costs of treating nonemergency ailments in the ER has an impact on the cost of healthcare for consumers, employers and the healthcare system as a whole. Anthem has made, and will continue to make, enhancements to ensure consumers are receiving the right care at the right place and time."

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Northwell Health, Memorial Sloan Kettering, Westmed join Oscar's networkAfter years of seeing employee deductibles rise, employers are looking for novel ways to cut the cost of health insurance, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Only 30 percent of employers plan to solely offer high-deductible health plans next year, a 9 percent dip after increases in each of the last six years. Rather than passing costs on to employees, many employers now are looking to address the drivers of these costs.

"We're seeing a really keen interest in moving away from high deductibles and coinsurance," said Forrest Burke, CEO of national markets at UnitedHealthcare.

Many companies are beginning to directly negotiate with hospitals and are even opening their own clinics in some cases. States are also taking matters into their own hands. Utah's state health plan will pay for employees to travel to Mexico to buy certain cost-effective medications. Employees also get $500 for themselves each time they travel there to fill a three-month prescription.

"There are some drugs where the only way we could find a lower-cost provider was to put them on a plane and send them to Tijuana," said R. Chet Loftis, managing director of PEHP Health and Benefits, the Utah agency.A federal judge in Philadelphia has ruled that Bristol-Myers Squibb must face a whistle-blower lawsuit alleging the drugmaker knowingly underpaid rebates it owed to state Medicaid programs.

Here are four things to know:

1. The lawsuit was brought by whistle-blower Ronald Streck, PharmD, a pharmacist and lawyer who previously served as the CEO of an association of prescription drug manufacturers.

2. The suit contends that from Jan. 1, 2007, to Dec. 31, 2013, Bristol-Myers fraudulently manipulated the calculation of the Medicaid rebate it owed. It is accused of underreporting the average manufacturer price, the price a wholesaler pays per unit. CMS uses this price to determine the amount a manufacturer owes the states.

3. U.S. District Judge Timothy Savage dismissed Bristol-Myer's argument that the company didn't act knowingly because the law mandating how to calculate rebates was ambiguous during the years in question.

4. "We conclude that Dr. Streck has alleged sufficient facts to state a false claims cause of action. He alleges facts which, if proven, will establish that BMS knowingly or, at least, recklessly reported and paid lower rebates than it owed. Therefore, we shall deny BMS' motion to dismiss," the lawsuit reads.

Read the full lawsuit here.Drug giant GlaxoSmithKline agreed to buy cancer treatment company Tesaro for about $5.1 billion including debt, according to CNBC.

The deal gives GlaxoSmithKline access to Tesaro's ovarian cancer drug Zejula, within a new class of drugs known as PARP inhibitors. PARP inhibitors have increased survival rates for women with stubborn ovarian cancer.

"The acquisition of Tesaro will strengthen our pharmaceuticals business by accelerating the build of our oncology pipeline and commercial footprint, along with providing access to new scientific capabilities," GlaxoSmithKline CEO Emma Walmsley told CNBC.

The deal, expected to close in the first quarter of 2019, was unanimously approved by Tesaro's board. The cancer treatment company began exploring the possibility of a sale more than a year ago, according to The Wall Street Journal.

The deal positions GlaxoSmithKline deeper into the highly competitive PARP-inhibitor cancer market. It likely will race market-leading PARP-inhibitor manufacturer AstraZeneca to test the inhibitors on other cancer types, according to WSJ.

Centerview Partners provided financial advice to Tesaro.U.S. pharmaceutical giant McKesson Corp. is moving its headquarters from San Francisco to its existing office in Las Colinas, Texas, in April, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.

"We are excited to strengthen our presence in Texas and make Las Colinas our official global headquarters," McKesson CEO John Hammergren said in a statement. "Making this move will improve efficiency, collaboration and cost-competitiveness, while providing an exceptional work environment for our employees."

Most of the Bay Area jobs will be relocated to Texas, but McKesson said it will keep more than 1,400 workers in California, including those with McKesson Ventures and a tech team for an oncology subsidiary.

The decision to move its headquarters is part of McKesson's goal to cut costs by $300 million to $400 million by the end of fiscal year 2021, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.The Democratic Republic of Congo's Ebola outbreak is creeping southward toward several major cities, which could threaten supplies of the experimental Ebola vaccine health workers are using to contain the outbreak, reports STAT.

Here are four things to know:

1. Merck, which manufactures the vaccine, has committed to maintaining a global stockpile of 300,000 vaccine doses. As of Dec. 2, the Congo has already used more than 42,000 doses this year.

"We are extremely concerned about the size of the vaccine stockpile," Dr. Peter Salama, WHO deputy director-general of emergency preparedness and response, told STAT. "And we're regularly in touch with Merck to discuss what can be done about that."

2. Making the Ebola vaccine is a yearlong process, and the company spends four to five months alone converting the bulk product into vials, a Merck spokesperson told STAT.

3. Health workers are using the vaccine to prevent further disease transmission by vaccinating contacts of known Ebola patients and individuals exposed to those contacts. Dr. Salama said virus transmission appears to be slowing in Beni, the current epicenter of the outbreak. However, if the virus spreads south to cities like Butembo and Goma, the WHO may run out of vaccines to support this outbreak response strategy.

"When you consider that the global  stockpile is 300,000 doses and Beni itself has a population of 400,000 and Butembo a million, you can imagine that when people are proposing large-scale geographical vaccination, that becomes extremely impractical," Dr. Salama told STAT.

4. This outbreak is now Congo's second largest, with the WHO reporting 440 cases and 225 deaths as of Dec. 1.

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Outpatients for influenzalike illness above national baseline: 5 things to knowConditions in Yemen have deteriorated alarmingly, and the country is on the brink of a major catastrophe said Mark Lowcock  Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator  on returning from his mission to Yemen on Saturday.

But it is not too late, he added: In my meetings with officials of the internationally recognized Government of Yemen in Aden and the de facto authorities in Sanaa, I was encouraged to hear strong support for relief operations.

Around 2.3 million people are currently displaced across Yemen, and, since June alone, more than 500,000 people have fled conflict in and around the strategically important port city of Hudaydah, the major port of entry for most of the countys food and humanitarian aid.

The consequences of the Yemen conflict, especially the recent economic crash in the country, have driven major increases in severe hunger and malnutrition, leading to a humanitarian crisis that senior UN officials have called the largest food security crisis in the world.

Mr. Lowcock said that he had witnessed the suffering of Yemeni civilians hit by the failed Yemeni economy, who cant afford food, clean water or transport to a clinic: In Aden, I met emaciated children so malnourished they could barely open their eyes. Humanitarian assistance helps many of these children recover. But I also heard heartbreaking stories of children relapsing again and again because their families simply cant afford food or proper medical care.

The Under-Secretary- General reiterated that only a political solution can end the crisis in Yemen, and welcomed news that the warring parties plan to travel to Sweden for peace talks convened by Martin Griffiths, the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, but he warned that, because of the deteriorating humanitarian situation, a large step-up in funding will be needed for the Yemen aid effort in 2019.More than 6.7 million people contracted measles in 2017, marking a 30 percent increase from the year prior, according to a Nov. 29 report from the World Health Organization.

Here are three things to know:

1. Of the 6.7 million measles cases confirmed last year, most occurred in young children and 110,000 patients died.

2. The mumps, measles and rubella vaccine has saved more than 21 million lives since 2000. However, health officials said gaps in vaccination coverage are quickly undoing this progress.

"The increase in measles cases is deeply concerning, but not surprising," Seth Berkley, MD, CEO of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, said in a press release. "Complacency about the disease and the spread of falsehoods about the vaccine in Europe, a collapsing health system in Venezuela, and pockets of fragility and low immunization coverage in Africa are combining to bring about a global resurgence of measles after years of progress."

3. Two doses of the MMR vaccine protect individuals from the measles. However, global vaccine compliance has lagged at 85 percent for the first dose and 67 percent for the second dose for several years, according to the WHO. Health officials said 95 percent vaccine coverage is required to help prevent outbreaks.

"Without urgent efforts to increase vaccination coverage and identify populations with unacceptable levels of under- or unimmunized children, we risk losing decades of progress in protecting children and communities against this devastating, but entirely preventable disease," Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, the WHO's deputy director general for programs, said in a press release.

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Outpatients for influenzalike illness above national baseline: 5 things to knowResearchers and scientists have been trying to concoct a universal flu vaccine for decades, but hit a wall when trying to target the parts of the flu virus responsible for changing year to year, according to Science.

"Every year we learn that we know less and less about this virus," Martin Friede, PhD, a biochemist who coordinates the Initiative for Vaccine Research at the World Health Organization in Geneva, Switzerland, told Science.

Seasonal vaccines are created to trigger an immune response to make antibodies against the top part of one protein of the influenza virus. Experimental universal flu vaccines instead aim to target the bottom of the protein, but fail to do so successfully.

Funding for continued research and development for a universal influenza vaccine has increased in recent years. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, located in Bethesda, Md., has allocated $160 million for its 2019 research budget. Two years ago the company only allocated $60 million for research. The NIAID will evaluate proposals for studying how influenza affects infants over the span of seven years.

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Measles cases jump 30% worldwide, WHO findsMedtronic CEO Omar Ishrak traveled to Israel, along with other senior executives, days after the company announced it would acquire its third Israel-based company, according to Globes. But this may not be the last of the acquisitions in the region.

Here are five things to know:

1. This year, Medtronic agreed to fully acquire Mazor, Nutrino and Visionsense, all companies based in Israel. Medtronic acquired Mazor for $1.64 billion, Nutrino for around $100 million and Visionsense for $75 million.

2. In addition to the acquisitions, Medtronic signed an agreement to "support the founding of a new R&D center."

3. Medtronic's country director in Israel indicated there will be future acquisitions of Israel-based companies last week, as news broke of the Nutrino acquisition.

4. Mr. Ishrak is scheduled to meet with investors while in Israel, according to the report, and the company has invested in Tri Ventures and Rainbow Investments in the past.

5. Prior to joining Medtronic, Mr. Ishrak worked at Israeli-owned DS-Sonics.Abbas Bahari, MD, is the newest spine surgeon at Toledo, Ohio-based ProMedica Physicians, according to The Monroe News.

The spine surgeon will practice out of the health system's Monroe, Mich., location.

Dr. Bahari specializes in back and neck pain, degenerative spine, spinal stenosis, cervical myelopathy, spine trauma, compression fracture and head injuries.

After earning his medical degree from the University of Belgrade School of Medicine in Serbia, Dr. Bahari completed his residency at Detroit-based Henry Ford Hospital. He underwent fellowship training at the Charlottesville-based University of Virginia.Michael Glover, MD, is an Arizona-based spine surgeon that performs endoscopic spine surgeries.

A board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, Dr. Glover discussed the potential of endoscopic spine surgery in a Flagstaff Business News article.

Dr. Glover makes a less than 0.5-inch incision in a patient's spine to insert a tube to create a safe working channel for the endoscope. "This type of visualization allows for images from 'inside' the spine to be seen by the surgeon as they show [up] on a large screen," Dr. Glover said. "The endoscope also serves to host the specialized instruments to work on the problem area causing the nerve pain."

Patient selection is important for endoscopic spine surgery. "Endoscopic spine surgery is the ideal surgery for the right patient with sciatic-like leg pain due to disc herniations, or other problems that compress nerves and have not responded to nonoperative treatments."

"A typical endoscopic spine surgery is done in an outpatient surgery setting," Dr. Glover wrote in the Flagstaff Business News. "The approach is through a small opening on the side of the spine where the nerves exit and uses a small centimeter-sized skin incision A surgeon can also approach from the back of the spine and in between the lamina."A senior figure in Theresa May's cabinet has called for support to the draft EU Withdrawal Agreement in order to protect Northern Ireland's tech sector.

Digital Secretary Jeremy Wright said the controversial text represents "the best deal possible" for Belfast's 875m a year tech industry, which employs around 9,000 people.

Northern Ireland's business community has largely thrown its weight behind the deal in order to avoid 'crashing out' on March 29, 2019. However, the backstop provision within the agreement, designed to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland, has left the main unionist parties strongly opposed.

With just eight days until MPs vote on the deal, Jeremy Wright warned a no-deal situation could halt the free flow of data "vital" for both the economy and security. The Government's own technical notices suggest that if the UK leaves the EU with no deal, there may not be a legal agreement in place right away on data flowing from the EU to the UK.

The Digital Secretary said three-quarters of the UK's service exports rely on data flows, with many tech-focused companies in Northern Ireland now dependent on cloud computing.

Mr Wright said the draft deal will address issues around personal data, reduce barriers to digital trade, facilitate e-commerce and enable the exchange of information.

"We have secured the best deal possible to protect our businesses and make sure our personal data is processed safely and securely.

"Businesses big and small and in every sector of the economy - from video games makers to hotel and travel companies, mail order firms to manufacturers - want certainty. We now need to back the Prime Minister and get the job done."The Belfast Bikes scheme has said recent attacks on the public transport scheme are "unsustainable"

The Belfast Bikes scheme has said recent attacks on the public transport scheme are "unsustainable".

It comes after nine bikes were "ruined" by vandalism, the scheme operators said, and another three were thought lost or missing from a station at Ormeau Park on Friday night.

On social media there was outrage at the incident, with some calling for CCTV to be installed at the more than 40 stations around the city.

Belfast Bikes said there had been over a dozen acts of vandalism across its network over recent days.

"Unsustainable," it said in a tweet.

The scheme has been beset with vandalism and theft since it began in 2015.

In July it was revealed 44,000 had spent repairing or replacing bikes and stations.

Police said they believed the attacks happened between 6pm and 8pm on Friday and are appealing for information.There's no rush for a hard border as far as the traders in Newry are concerned and that's not surprisng when you see the number of cars that are coming from the Republic.

Individuals are spending between 200 and 900 each on alcohol, books, cat food, coffee and paracetamol when they get here and that could be up to four times a year.

Read More

Gone are the traffic jams and mad queues for the car parks and you don't see too many signs saying 1 equals 1... but it's still a dual currency economy.

Retired stockbroker Dermot Duffy (68), from Dalkey, who spent 290 on alcohol, said he usually does a Newry shop in the summer and at Christmas.

"I always come for the drink; this lot would've cost me 500 at home so it's well worth the trip!"

Dublin couple Monica Brooney, a homemaker, and civil engineer John Brooney, both aged 60, popped up for a three-hour shopping trip during which they shelled out 280. "We've mostly bought alcohol but we picked up some clothes too. The same items would've cost us 700 in the Republic so it makes good economic sense to come."

Margo Connaghan (59), a carer from Drogheda, who has been coming up every three weeks for cheaper groceries for the last decade, spent 200 last Thursday.

"I've saved a fortune on Purina cat food, Hellmans mayonnaise, coffee and toiletries," she said.

"Yellowtail wine is just 7 a bottle here whereas it's 14 at home.

"My mum Betty who's 91 loves her puzzle books and you can get them much cheaper here as well," she said.

Accountants Rita Tracey (48) and Francis Donnelly (56), from Drogheda, said they were up for a look around. "We usually shop in Newry four or five times a year and spend a couple of hundred pounds a time," said Rita.

"Books are good value for money. So is paracetomol - it costs me 9 for (48 tablets) of Iboprufen at home. I can't believe you can get three packets of paracetamol (16 tablets each) for 1 in Newry!"

Hairdresser Leona Keegan (40), from Dublin, who started shopping at 9.30am was heading back home at 3pm having spent almost 200.

"I'm here for Christmas gifts and toiletries," she said.

"There's not much in it in terms of cost but it's only 50 minutes up the road and it's nice to go to Newry for a day out."

Dubliner Megan O'Rourke (36), who is recently unemployed, said she'd spent over 100 on wine, clothes and perfume. "Apart from the alcohol, I'm not sure things are cheaper but I'm just here to shop somewhere different," she said.

Waterstones manager John Fitzpatrick said the store, which is located in The Quays, has been busier than usual this year, with the majority of customers hailing from the Republic. "I'm told it's around 20% cheaper to buy books in Northern Ireland so we've really seen a big increase in the number of southern shoppers," he said.

Dublin couple Therese and Ciaran Coughlan, who are both 64, said they were staying in the area for three nights while they do their Christmas shopping. "We went to The Bouvelard in Banbridge yesterday and now we're here for the day," said Therese, who's retired. "We expect to spend about 500."

Husband Ciaran, who works in a bar, added: "We've been to Sainsbury's, Waterstones and Marks & Spencer and all I need now is to find a shop that sells tyres for my car."

Shannon McMahon who works at the Ciara Daly make-up concession in Newry's Buttercrane shopping centre, said she'd heard a mixture of accents. "There are a lot of people from the Republic as well as loads from Belfast who've come here to get their Primark fix in the aftermath of the Belfast fire," she said. A-level business students at St Mary's College, Grace Cahill, Laura Grant and Sarah Kelly, all aged 17, were manning a bakery stall at Buttercrane as part of their Young Enterprise scheme.

"We've made a lot of sales in euros today because there are so many southern shoppers at the minute," said Grace. "Our target is to reach 350 for charity and we're well on our way to that."

Friends Marie O'Connor (45), a waitress, delivery driver Gerard Hynes (41) and homemaker Sadie Broughall (49), from Portlaoise spent close to 1,000 between them. "Alcohol, hair straighteners and hairdryers are all better value so it makes good economical sense to shop here in the run up to Christmas," said Marie.A new 3m industrial estate in Co Tyrone is to be given the green light after winning the approval of Mid Ulster planning officials. (stock photo)

A new 3m industrial estate in Co Tyrone is to be given the green light after winning the approval of Mid Ulster planning officials.

Dungannon engineering firm Maximus Crushing and Screening launched its bid in 2016 to transform part of the former Tyrone Brick factory in Dungannon into a modern industrial hub.

Two major applications linked to the project have now been approved by planners. Both are expected to be signed off when the Mid Ulster District Council's planning committee meets tomorrow.

Tyrone Brick ceased operating on the Dungannon site in 2009 after almost 120 years of producing its distinctive red-clay product. Set up in 2004, Maximus manufactures crushing and screening equipment. The firm later bought the former factory site and invested 4m in a new facility. In December 2017, it employed 113 people.

The latest company accounts for the Co Tyrone engineering firm confirm that Austrian-based Rubble Master HMH GmbH acquired a majority stake in Maximus on March 12, 2018.

Speaking about the takeover earlier this year, the Austrian company's chief executive Gerald Hanisch said both entities would continue to exist and complement each other.

"The Maximus employees in Northern Ireland, the manufacturing locations and the Maximus sales and service network will all remain as they are," he said.

The latest company accounts released by Maximus showed it increased its turnover by 42% to 14.3m in the year to December 31, 2017. However, the cost of sales also rocketed by 57% to 13.8m over the same period. Coupled with rising administrative costs, the result was a pre-tax loss of 2.7m for 2017.

But the report added that the new owners have since "invested significantly from the date of investment", adding that the Austrians are "committed to the company's long-term future".

Approval for the new Brickworks Business Park has also paved the way for the engineering firm to extend its factory on the Dungannon site, adding new production and office space.

Alongside the new industrial and commercial units, the plan includes a new road linking Coalisland Road to Carland Road.

The new road will necessitate the removal of buildings which planning officials have described as having "an industrial heritage interest".

However, they said the structures are not listed, nor are they classed as historic monuments, concluding: "Overall the proposal will have benefits for Dungannon that outweigh the loss of buildings and increased impact on amenity of dwellings."Northern Ireland's border-based shops are preparing for a bumper Christmas despite Brexit bringing uncertainty to the future of a retail sector currently worth 40m annually.

Southern shoppers are continuing to profit from a pound whose value began to plunge in the aftermath of the 2016 referendum, meaning that goods and services remain much cheaper here than in the Republic.

Read More

Footfall is up, bargains abound and sales of alcohol, sweets, health and childcare products, books, white goods and other big ticket items are currently going through the roof, according to local traders.

Improved roads since the last cross-border boom a decade ago mean less traffic congestion and faster journeys between the Republic and Northern Ireland for euro-tourists coming here to fill their trolleys with gifts and stock their larders and drinks cabinets.

And the influx includes displaced Primark customers visiting its Newry store - now its biggest Northern Ireland branch following the catastrophic fire at the retail giant's Bank Buildings flagship premises in Belfast.

Leading economist John Simpson said his calculations put the benefit for the province of annual cross-border retail at around 40m - but he warned of the fragility of the trade sector in the face of Brexit.

"My guesstimate is that the total magnitude of cross-border trade is around 40 million, spread between Newry, Derry and Enniskillen," he said.

"If Brexit goes wrong there will be a hard border and that means trade across the border will become much more formalised. It would ultimately affect cross border trade negatively."

Cathal Austin, manager at The Quays shopping centre in Newry for 16 years, said cross-border trade represents between 25% and 30% of total retail in the frontier city, which means it's worth around 12m. Sainsbury's and Marks & Spencer are two of the "big draws" to the centre, with overall footfall already up this year "between 30 and 35% on last year".

"On a flat week, 25% of Quays shoppers are from the Republic; in the last quarter of the year it will grow to 45% from now until Christmas," said Mr Austin.

The busiest period is the last two weeks of November and first fortnight in December, and at the weekend six out of ten customers are likely to hail from the Republic, with individuals spending up to 900 each.

Mr Austin also said that the cross-border shopper profile no longer reflects the 'Rip Off Republic' sentiments which drove much of the Newry boom in the late Noughties.

"Southerners felt they were being ripped off and that drove them across the border back then," he said. "The economy was in decline, the Celtic tiger had passed away and people were trying to save money. There was no more lighting cigars with 50 euro notes...

"Now the whole landscape has changed. The southern economy is buoyant, employment is increasing, salaries and wages are increasing so people are crossing for different reasons.

"They're not trying to save money on their groceries or everyday living like they were in 2008. It's more selective, aspirational shopping now."

Mr Austin said the volume of items bought by southern shoppers has decreased, but the spend hasn't diminished, and they're also going further afield, to Banbridge and Belfast. "The value is no better now than it was then but a lot of it was driven by consumer sentiment," he said.

"Back then consumer sentiment in the south was that the north was this Utopia where everything was half price and that drove people across here in great numbers."

He added: "Retailers are doing well. It's all about customer perception and confidence. Brexit is looming over us. It may not keep you up at night but it's always in the back of people's minds."

Peter Murray, manager at the nearby Buttercrane shopping centre for 30 years, said cross-border shopping in 2018 hasn't been "as spectacular" as it was a decade ago.

"There was a spike in shopper numbers after the Brexit referendum, and Christmas 2016 was very good for us," said Mr Murray. "This year has been steady in terms of southern business. Rip Off Ireland has gone.

"The busiest period is the last two weeks of November and the first two weeks of December."

He said over a fifth of Buttercrane's custom over the year came from southern shoppers. "We monitor car registrations... it's a very inexact science," he explained.

He added: "There's no reason that it won't be a bumper Christmas this year. The floodgates will open shortly. It's a pretty positive atmosphere. Numbers are up on this time last year. All the shops take euros. It's a dual currency economy across Newry."

Chief executive of Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade, Colm Shannon, said "cross-border trade becomes more important as Christmas approaches".

"There is an upturn in southern shopper numbers from Halloween onwards.

"Newry's two large shopping centres are vitally important but we've also got a very strong independent sector and the combination of both makes Newry very attractive. The chamber has been at the forefront in terms of lobbying against a hard border Brexit. Cross-border trade is a vital element of the Newry economy and that's why it's so important to avoid a hard border."

Dr Peter Bolan, Ulster University Director of International Travel and Tourism Management, said more people than ever before have been coming across the border in the last two years.

"People are coming up as a result of a number of factors and one of them is certainly the exchange rate," he said.

Dr Bolan added that it would be "a great shame" if one of the ramifications of Brexit was the undoing of the now well established cross-border relationship.Frances leading groups, CMA CGM, EDF Renewables, FIVES and SUEZ have announced plans to pump investment in the Omans Duqm Special Economic Zone, in many sectors including cement, renewable energy and alternative fuel.

The four groups will form a French Business syndicate with the aim of assessing various investment possibilities, Arabia Business reports.

The likely investments of the syndicate would go into the establishment of cement factory ecosystems and related facilities including solar power generation plant, and the production of alternative fuel, the Dubai-based media notes.

The announcement came following a visit to France by Yahya Al Jabri, chairman of the Special Economic Zone Authority of Duqm (SEZAD).

Aside from the investments, the French groups will implement an educational program to enhance the integration of young Omanis in the projects.

Jabri welcomed the move as it spouses the SEZADs vision and futurist plans.Engineering group Babcock has struck a joint venture deal worth 1.5 billion Australian dollars (864 million) to provide services to Australias navy.

Naval Ship Management (NSM), a 50/50 joint venture between Babcock and UGL, has been awarded a 15-year contract by the Australian Defence Force.

The entity will provide support services to the largest vessels in the Australian navy  two flagship Canberra Class Landing Helicopter Docks and their 12 associated amphibious landing craft.

Babcock chief executive Archie Bethel said: Through NSM we will apply Babcocks digitally enabled asset management capabilities to support this strategically important capability over the next decade and beyond.

It comes after Babcock also recently won a 100 million aerial firefighting services contract in Canada, the first such deal the firm has struck outside Europe.

The FTSE 250 company was awarded the Wildfire Suppression Services contract by the government of Manitoba.

The deals come at a sensitive time for the firm, which last month revealed a 64% plunge in half-year profits after charges linked to its overhaul.

Shares tanked after the group  the Ministry of Defences second largest contractor  reported pre-tax profits falling to 65.1 million in the six months to September 30, down from 181.9 million a year earlier.

Profits were pushed lower by a 120 million charge related to the restructuring of its oil and gas business and also including costs such as its decision to sell the Appledore shipyard in Devon.

Babcock also worried investors as it cut its 2019-20 guidance for revenue from its joint venture for decommissioning of Magnox nuclear sites in the UK.

The contract is due to end in August 2019 and Babcock does not now expect any additional revenue after that date.

The results followed a torrid time for Babcock shares, which have been sent tumbling after a highly critical research paper posted last month by a mystery analyst called Boatman Capital.Food giant Mars will begin stockpiling foods in both Ireland and the UK as part of its contingency plans for a hard Brexit, the company's global food and drink president has said. (Philip Toscano/PA)

Food giant Mars will begin stockpiling foods in both Ireland and the UK as part of its contingency plans for a hard Brexit, the company's global food and drink president has said.

But Fiona Dawson, who is originally from Dublin, also ruled out moving the company's production out of the UK even if tariffs and border checks were introduced.

"The good news is this has been coming for years now and irrespective of the final deal we haven't been waiting, we've contingency-planned for a hard Brexit," Ms Dawson explained.

"We'll obviously look at increasing our stocks because there will be a period of uncertainty for people relating to whatever deal is put in place. We'll be stockpiling both in Ireland and the UK."

Ms Dawson, who sits on the board of the Trinity Business School, also dismissed stories that the UK would "run out" of Mars bars after Brexit.

"It is always very humbling when you see the Mars bar is still one of the great icons and people still use it as currency, the price of a Mars bar. We have plans in place to ensure the continuity of supply."Diesel is the bad guy in motoring of late, with manufacturers shunning oil burners as governments crack down on emissions.

In a reflection of this, Honda recently announced it would be dropping the diesel CR-V from its range, leaving just a petrol version and this, the new CR-V Hybrid.

The manufacturer claims it should return the same economy as the recently ditched model, while improving low-speed emissions thanks to the introduction of those electric motors.

We headed to Seville to see if this latest CR-V really can take the place of the well-rounded diesel version.

What's new?

The biggest changes come under the bonnet (we'll get to these shortly) but there have been alterations elsewhere.

It's got a wheelbase that is 30mm longer than the old CR-V, which provides better interior space. Honda has also included active aerodynamics, which allow a shutter to open or close behind the grille, depending on how well the engine is being cooled.

There's even a warning sound when driving in all-electric mode, so that hearing-impaired pedestrians can know it's coming. Plus, Honda has included a wide variety of its latest safety technology to ensure that those inside and outside the CR-V Hybrid are kept as safe as possible.

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What's under the bonnet?

Here's where things get interesting. The CR-V Hybrid uses a far-from-conventional powertrain, but the fundamentals are there. Underneath the bonnet is a 2.0-litre petrol engine and two electric motors, with a lithium-ion battery in the boot. Thanks to what Honda is calling "intelligent multi-mode drive", or i-MMD for short, it can seamlessly switch between power options while on the move.

At low speeds, for instance, the battery powers just the electric motors that drive the wheels - the engine is kept out of the equation. You've got around 1.2 miles of all-electric propulsion, although when switching to hybrid mode the engine supplies power to the electric motors, which then drive the wheels.

Finally, there's Engine Drive, which comes into play at higher speeds. This allows the engine to directly drive the wheels, bypassing both the battery and the electric motors. There's no gearbox, just a lock-up clutch that transfers power depending on need.

What's it like to drive?

On start-up, it's business as usual. There's no noise, and the CR-V silently whisks away in the manner we've come to expect from hybrids. Gain a little pace, and the engine chimes in seamlessly, grumbling away slightly. The overall refinement is very good (it must be in such quiet cars as even the tiniest rattles make their presence known like a swarm of solid-gold bees flying into a desk fan), and it's helped no end by the added sound insulation material installed throughout the car, as well as Honda's innovative new active noise-cancellation system.

Under hard acceleration, the engine does produce a hefty din, but once you're up to speed it settles down. It's quiet and comfortable, and the ride remains composed.

Honda claims a 0-60mph time of nine seconds, and it felt honest to this, as it did to the car's claimed 51.4mpg - we saw around 48mpg on our route, which mixed motorway driving with short country road bursts.

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How does it look?

In a time when manufacturers must create cars to stand out in a heavily saturated market, Honda has done well to make the CR-V look different. It's a chunky-looking thing, with dynamic lines running the length of the car helping to hide its bulk. The front headlamp design is particularly noticeable, as is the large chrome grille. It's also pleasantly 'normal'. Save for a few model badges on the flanks, you'd be hard-pressed to tell that this had a cutting-edge powertrain underneath it, and that'll likely appeal to those who don't want to shout about the fact they're driving a hybrid.

What's it like inside?

The cabin of the CR-V Hybrid is tried-and-tested Honda: solid and well-built. There are harsher plastics, although the rubberised dash and large, chunky buttons help to give it an overall feeling of robustness. The door pockets are sizeable enough for a few bottles of water, and there are cubbies dotted throughout the cabin to help keep it clutter-free.

Rear-seat head and legroom levels are excellent, and there are twin USB sockets for charging devices. Although the boot is smaller in the hybrid than the petrol (497 litres down from 589 litres), the overall area is wide, square and easy to access, thanks to a low floor and minimal load lip.

What's the equipment spec like?

Equipment specifications mirror those available on the petrol version, so buyers can choose from S, SE, SR and EX versions, as well as the option of either two or all-wheel drive. Prices start at 29,105 for the entry-level S model with two-wheel drive, topping out at 37,255 for the all-singing, all-dancing all-wheel drive EX.

Although all cars get cruise control, traffic sign recognition and Honda's full suite of safety assistance systems, the firm expects the range-topping EX to be the best seller. It has a heated steering wheel, head-up display and panoramic sunroof over the other, still comprehensively kitted-out, grades.

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The latest generation of Honda's infotainment system lingers behind rivals' in terms of ease of use and look.

Verdict

Honda believes this hybrid CR-V to be a fair replacement for its popular diesel version, and we'd have to agree.

It's only going to cost around 800 more than the standard petrol version, which makes it excellent value.

All in all, the CR-V Hybrid would be an excellent proposition for those looking to drive down their fuel costs without making too many sacrifices in terms of the overall driving experience.Sinn Fein Vice President Michelle O'Neill has accused the DUP of being out of touch with the population on Brexit.

Mrs O'Neill was speaking after Northern Ireland's four pro-Remain parties met trade unions, university representatives and the community and voluntary sector at Stormont on Monday.

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The Mid Ulster MLA said that there was "unprecedented unity among representatives of civic society, business and the remain supporting parties".

A vote on Theresa May's draft Brexit withdrawal deal is set to take place next Tuesday, December 11.

It faces opposition from the DUP, the Labour Party and a section of MPs within Mrs May's own Conservative Party.

The DUP is unhappy that the deal will see Northern Ireland aligned with EU rules and remain part of the single market with checks on some goods coming in from the UK to Northern Ireland, if the Brexit backstop is implemented.

Mrs O'Neill said that there is "no good to come from Brexit".

There is broad agreement between our parties and the various representatives at todays discussion that we must protect the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts," the Sinn Fein Vice President said.

Brexit presents a major threat to all the sectors represented today in terms of the risk to EU funding for community projects and university research, educational opportunities in the EU and the dilution of workers rights.

This is obviously causing a great deal of concern so I welcome the fact that more and more sectors are making their voices heard. The DUP are clearly on the wrong side of the argument."

Mid Ulster MLA O'Neill accused the DUP of "setting their face against the wishes and best interests of the vast majority of citizens by continuing to push for a hard Brexit and opposing the withdrawal agreement".

That agreement is not perfect and neither is the backstop contained within it. However, it is the least worst option and remains our best insurance policy against the worst excesses of Brexit on the island of Ireland," she said.

But while the DUP still refuse to heed the concerns of citizens, Sinn Fein will continue to stand with all other pro-Remain parties and those sections of society who advocate for citizens' rights, our economic interests and the protection of our agreements.

Whatever transpires over the coming weeks, the Backstop remains the bottom line.Prime Minister Theresa May speaking on the second day of the G20 Leaders Summit in Buenos Aires

DUP MPs were last night preparing for a showdown with Prime Minister Theresa May over her Brexit deal.

Sources at Westminster say that the 10 party representatives could join forces today with Labour and other opposition parties to call for the Government to publish the full legal advice it received on the implications of the Brexit deal.

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The DUP declined to comment, but it is understood a letter to Speaker John Bercow has been drafted for signature by Nigel Dodds, Labour's Shadow Brexit Secretary Sir Keir Starmer, the Lib Dems and the SNP, claiming ministers' refusal to give MPs the legal advice is in contempt of Parliament.

The move, which could spark an historic constitutional row, is to be submitted today unless ministers have a change of heart.

And it would put further strain on the DUP's relationship with Mrs May as she struggles to win backing for her deal in the crucial Commons vote on December 11.

Sir Keir Starmer told Sky News: "If they don't produce it [the legal advice] tomorrow, then we will start contempt proceedings, this will be a collision course between the government and Parliament."

MPs have angrily accused ministers of ignoring the will of the House after they said only they would release a "full reasoned political statement" on the legal position.

It follows a binding Commons vote last month requiring the Government to lay before Parliament "any legal advice in full" - including that given by the Attorney General - relating to the Withdrawal Agreement.

It was reported yesterday that Attorney General Geoffrey Cox - who is due to make a statement to the Commons today - had warned the UK could be tied to the EU customs union "indefinitely" through the "backstop" provision.

The Sunday Times claimed that in a letter sent last month to Cabinet ministers, he advised the only way out of the backstop - designed to prevent the return of a hard border with the Republic - once it was invoked, was to sign a new trade deal, a process which could take years.

"The protocol would endure indefinitely," he is reported to have written.

The letter was said to be so sensitive that ministers were given numbered copies to read which they were not allowed to take from the room afterwards.

Former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab - who quit last month over the withdrawal agreement - said the legal position was clear.

"The backstop will last indefinitely until it is superseded by the treaty setting out our future relationship, unless the EU allows us to exit," he said.

"The EU has a clear veto, even if the future negotiations stretch on for many years, or even if they break down and there is no realistic likelihood of us reaching agreement.

"That's my view as a former international lawyer, but it is consistent if not identical with all of the formal advice I received."

Ministers have argued the legal advice is privileged, in the same way as any advice given by a lawyer to their client, and that Government cannot function if it is required to release such confidential material.

Last night it was reported that Mrs May's chief Brexit adviser secretly warned her the Northern Ireland "backstop" was a "bad outcome" for Britain.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, Oliver Robbins said the backstop, intended to prevent the return of a hard border, would mean the imposition of regulatory checks between the North and the rest of the UK, according to The Daily Telegraph.

He is said to have written: "We should not forget that the backstop world, even with a UK-EU customs union, is a bad outcome with regulatory controls needed somewhere between GB and NI, serious and visible frictions and process between GB and the EU, and no security co-operation provided for."

Meanwhile, Michael Gove has insisted the Government can win the Commons vote on Mrs May's Brexit deal, despite scores of Tory MPs threatening to vote against it.

The Environment Secretary acknowledged it would be "challenging" to get it through the House, but while he accepted the deal was not "perfect", he said the alternative was either "no deal or no Brexit".

Mr Gove, who was one of the leaders of the Leave campaign, said he had reflected "long and hard" before deciding to back the plan.

But while there were aspects of the deal he found "uncomfortable", he believed it was now the right way forward.

"I reflected long and hard about this deal but I concluded, like lots of people, that while it is imperfect it is the right thing to do," he told The Andrew Marr Show.

"One of the things that I hope people will have the chance to do over the next nine days is to recognise that we should not make the perfect the enemy of the good."Theresa May is continuing attempts to win support from MPs for her Brexit deal (PA)

Prime Minister Theresa May has said she would still be in her job in two weeks time, downplaying speculation that she might resign if she loses a key Brexit vote in parliament which is scheduled for December 11.

"I will still have a job in two weeks' time," May said in an interview with ITV television when asked if she would quit if she lost the vote.

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"My job is making sure that we do what the public asked us to: we leave the EU but we do it in a way that's good for them."

Mrs May also said there would be no changes to the Brexit plan she has hammered out with other EU leaders.

She also denied the suggestion that her agreement with Brussels was a "disaster".

Mrs May said MPs would spend five days debating and dissecting it before the December 11 vote, adding: "At the end of the line it is, I think, about holding our nerve and getting this over the line so we can deliver on Brexit and people can have that better future."Commons Speaker John Bercow has told MPs that he believes there is an "arguable case that a contempt has been committed" by the Government over Brexit legal advice.

Mr Bercow gave the ruling after representations from Labour, the DUP and four other opposition parties that ministers were in contempt of Parliament for failing to publish the full Brexit legal advice on Monday.

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Opposition parties complained, after a fractious two-and-a-half-hour debate, that the summary legal advice released by Attorney General Geoffrey Cox did not comply with a Commons resolution agreed on November 13.

Mr Cox, who is the Government's chief legal adviser, had staunchly defended the decision - telling MPs "there is nothing to see here".

The Speaker however, in a statement to the Commons, said he was "satisfied" the matter should be put before MPs to consider on Tuesday morning.

He said: "The letter that I received from the members mentioned at the start of this statement asks me to give precedence to a motion relating to privilege in relation to the failure of ministers to comply with the terms of the resolution of the House of the 13 November."

Mr Bercow stopped his statement to scold Government chief whip Julian Smith, who was talking to ministers on the frontbench, saying: "It would seem courteous if he could just hold off for a moment and allow me to make the statement that would appear to show perhaps a proper politeness."

He added: "I have considered the matter carefully and I am satisfied that there is an arguable case that a contempt has been committed. I'm therefore giving precedence for a motion to be tabled tonight before the House rises and to be taken as first business tomorrow."

Mr Bercow said it was "entirely for the House to decide on that motion".

The Attorney General earlier said that he "fully accepts" MPs may impose a sanction against him or the Government for contempt of Parliament over Brexit legal advice.

He said: "The House has at its disposal the means by which to enforce its will.

"It can bring a motion of contempt and seek to have that motion passed and seek to impose through the committee, or whichever way it is appropriately done, to impose a sanction. I fully accept that.

"I don't set myself up contrary to the House, I simply say that I cannot compromise the public interest."

Mr Cox had asked MPs to suppose the advice included details on relationships with foreign states and arguments that might be deployed in the future, noting: "Would it be right for the Attorney General, regardless of the harm to the public interest, to divulge his opinion.

"I say it wouldn't."

Mr Cox said it would be difficult to ensure information would be redacted, adding: "I cannot take a step that I firmly and truly believe would be contrary to the public interest".

He went on: "I ask the House to understand that it is only that consideration that is motivating me and this Government in declining at this stage to break the convention that applies to both sides of the House when they are in government.

"There is nothing to see here."Detectives are investigating the report of an armed robbery at commercial premises in the Suffolk Road area of west Belfast.

Detective Sergeant McPhillips said: "We received a report around 3:30pm on Sunday, December 2, that a man had entered a shop, grabbed a staff member and threatened them with a knife.

"The suspect - described as being approximately 6' tall, of medium build, aged in his 30s and wearing a red coat, dark-coloured bottoms and a monkey hat  then fled with a sum of money and cigarettes.

"This was a frightening ordeal for this staff member who was doing their job. Thankfully, they were not physically injured, however they have been left badly shaken by this despicable act.

"Police subsequently arrested a 31-year-old man on suspicion of robbery and possession of an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable act. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries. "

Anyone who was in the Suffolk Road area shortly before or around the time of the incident is asked to call detectives at Musgrave Police Station on the non emergency number 101, quoting reference number 892 of 02/12/18.An alleged attack on paramedics by a collapsed man they were treating could have cost lives, an MLA has claimed.

Two ambulance staff came under attack in Bangor town centre when they responded to a 999 call on Friday night.

The crew also endured a tirade of verbal abuse from a hostile crowd who criticised them for stepping back from the injured man who, it is claimed, "lashed out" at them on Quay Street on the town's seafront at around 8.30pm.

A Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) spokesperson said: "The crew withdrew a very short distance to request support from the PSNI but were then subjected to serious verbal abuse by a number of others at the scene."

The crew returned to treat the patient once police arrived and were escorted safely to the Ulster Hospital, Dundonald.

A 24-year-old man was later arrested on suspicion of assault and disorderly behaviour. He has since been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

Despite escaping physical injury, the badly shaken ambulance personnel were unable to complete their shift.

NIAS chief executive Michael Bloomfield condemned the incident which he warned could result in lasting emotional damage for the crew.

"I am sure, and staff have told me, that sometimes the fear for their personal safety is worse than the physical injuries they sustain," he added.

Mr Bloomfield called for the "full rigour of the law to be applied" against all those found guilty of attacking emergency service workers.

North Down MLA Alan Chambers said the attack deprived the area of vital ambulance cover for more than eight hours, significantly restricting the ability of the service to respond to life-threatening emergencies.

"Sometimes there are only two crews operating so this potentially reduced cover by 50% on one of the busiest nights of the week," he said.

The Ulster Unionist representative said he hoped anyone found to have been involved took time to reflect on their "appalling" behaviour.

He said the incident must be strongly condemned and now, in the cold light of day, he hoped people would realise the seriousness of their alleged actions, adding: "Lives could have been lost as a result of this."A Belfast bookshop has banned all DUP representatives from a new cafe they are planning to build on their first floor.

Belfast Books on the York Road has said that DUP elected reps will not be welcome in the new cafe when it opens due to their stance on same-sex marriage.

Same-sex couples are allowed to wed in England, Wales, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland, but it is against the law in Northern Ireland.

DUP oppose same-sex marriage and used a petition of concern to stop it being passed in the Northern Ireland Assembly in 2015.

Belfast Books are hoping to raise 15k through a crowdfunding campaign to open the cafe.

It is not the first time the store has taken a stand, they stopped donating to and purchasing books from Oxfam earlier this year and also refuse to accept Bank of England notes.

In a statement Managing Director John Junk explained the reasons behind the decision.

Ive had a good working relation with some local DUP elected representatives and grassroots members of the party, and work alongside them on various community forums - but the partys stance on equal marriage doesnt sit well with us, so their elected representatives will be banned from the cafe we're planning if we raise the money in our crowdfunder to open it," Mr Junk said.

For the avoidance of doubt, their elected representatives wont be banned from the bookshop as such a ban would have little effect. I think I'm right in saying that in over 4 years of us being open, not one of their elected representatives have darkened our door outside of election time.

The DUP has been contacted for comment.Qatar will pull out from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in January 2019, the tiny Gulfs minister of energy has announced.

Qatar has decided to withdraw its membership from OPEC effective January 2019, Saad al-Kaabi said Monday at a press conference in capital Doha.

The withdrawal decision reflects Qatars desire to focus its efforts on plans to develop and increase its natural gas production from 77 million tons per year to 110 million tons in the coming years, Kaabi said.

Kaabi said the pullout is not linked to political reasons as the small emirate is currently locked into a diplomatic row with Saudi Arabia, OPECs largest oil producer and exporter.

A lot of people will politicize itI assure you this purely was a decision on whats right for Qatar in the long term. Its a strategy decision, Al-Kaabi said.

Saudi Arabia and its allies, namely, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain and Egypt, have severed ties with Qatar, the Worlds largest exporter of liquid natural gas (LNG), over its alleged support for terrorism.

The minister also said leaving the organization will not affect the countrys performance which, he believed, will increase exponentially.

We will make a big splash in the oil and gas business soon, he said.

Qatar currently produces 60,000 barrel of crude oil per day, far below the Saudi 11 million barrel per day.

Qatar, according to Kaabi, will increase its oil production capability to 6.5 million barrels over the next decade.Former DUP mayor of Ballymoney Ian Stevenson was convicted of sexual assault in court yesterday and is due to be sentenced later this month.

A complaint has been made to the local government standards watchdog about a DUP councillor who squeezed a woman's breast at a care home before joking he would "grope anything".

Ian Stevenson, a 49-year-old nurse from Headlands Avenue in Ballymoney, and a previous mayor of the town, will be sentenced later this month after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a nursing colleague.

Mr Stevenson is a serving councillor on Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. He has been suspended by his party.

The Northern Ireland Local Government Commissioner for Standards has confirmed it has received a complaint and it was now "being assessed."

A DUP spokesperson said: "Cllr Stevenson's party membership was suspended in April pending the outcome of the court case.

"The suspension remains in place. Party officers will consider the judgement in due course."

Belfast Magistrates Court heard Mr Stevenson asked for a hug while talking to the woman in a corridor in April 2017.

She claimed that after raising her arms Stevenson grabbed her breast.

During the trial she described responding by pushing him away and telling him "no", adding that the encounter left her shocked and frightened.

"He just basically tried to laugh it off and made the joke: 'You know me, I would grope anything... well, not anything'," the woman claimed.

The court was told she later sent Stevenson a Facebook message expressing her "disgust" at what happened.

Mr Stevenson claimed in court that at no time did he grab or touch her breast, claiming it was the woman who offered him a hug when he told her he was going to lay a wreath on a friend's grave.

District Judge Amanda Henderson said she found the injured party to be credible in her testimoney.

She said Stevenson had failed to provide an explanation for why the woman would fabricate the incident after they had previously been on good terms.Former US Secretary of State, John Kerry, has voiced concerns that the fall-out from Brexit could reignite the Troubles.

Mr Kerry said finding a solution to Brexit was imperative to avoid a "negative impact" on progress made in Northern Ireland since the Good Friday Agreement.

Speaking to the BBC Sunday Politics show, Mr Kerry said: "Under the Stormont agreement the last 20 years has been characterised by a border that people have been able to cross easily.

"The great demarcation points and infrastructure that defined the border 20 years ago have gone.

"You can drive from the Republic of Ireland into Northern Ireland and there is a sign and that's it. If you have a Brexit with a hard border which is unacceptable to certain parties you could see great difficulties as a result of that.

"I have concerns - depending on what kind of Brexit takes place - it could have a negative impact on the progress of the last 20 years.

"It could reheat passions one way or the other or both depending on what it is so I think we have to see how this is resolved.

"The question of Northern Ireland has been a major hurdle to get over in this process and now the rightness of a specific proposal is on the table and I think it is up to you folk (UK) to think that through.

"It is imperative that it is solved in a way that does not reignite the Troubles."

Members of the five main political parties met with Mr Kerry and US Senator George Mitchell, who helped broker the Good Friday Agreement, at Yale University where a way to restore devolution was among topics discussed.

Mr Kerry continued: "They came here to have a conversation which could inform them perhaps a little bit but also us - to explore how governance can resume.

"This was an informal academic meeting where the parties came to explore their dynamics, to be able to have a candid, out of the spotlight, frank conversation with people who know something about the issue and care about the issue.

"Historically we have been privileged to be able to help, according to the wishes of the parties themselves."

The US Democrat added: "I think it is important for dialogue to begin as to how do you begin to take the steps necessary to calm things down a little bit and start to get some concrete steps forward that could get things on track again."Four men were being questioned yesterday after a gang threatened a young woman in her Londonderry home

Four men were being questioned yesterday after a gang threatened a young woman in her Londonderry home.

Two men, one armed with a suspected gun, are understood to have confronted the woman, who is in her 20s, at the house in Hollymount Park before making off in a white Kia Sportage car to the West Bank of the city.

Police intercepted a car in the Cecilia's Walk area of the cityside and arrested four men aged 21, 25, 31 and 34.

Yesterday, Inspector Vince Redmond said: "We received a report shortly after 6.30am this morning that two masked men, one armed with a suspected firearm, forced entry to a house in the area.

"One of the males entered and threatened the female occupant before leaving the house on foot with the second male, then making off from the area in a white vehicle.

"Officers responded immediately to this report and as a result of their enquiries located a white Kia Sportage in the Cecilia's Walk area and arrested four men aged 21, 25, 31 and 34 on suspicion of aggravated burglary.

"All four men are currently in custody where they are assisting officers with their enquiries."

While investigations are still at an early stage, some people living in the area have voiced concern and speculation of dissident republican involvement.

One woman commented: "I was really shocked when I heard about this.

"I know the wee girl who lives there to see but I've never really spoken to her.

"I think she has two young children which makes it all the more frightening to think someone with a gun would go into a house where wee children lived.

"She must have been terrified, imagine finding two men in your home at that time of the morning but I suppose we have to thank God no one was hurt."

"Hollymount is a quiet enough area, I know the police have been warning about houses being broken into but I don't know if this is what this was or if they were looking for someone," the resident speculated.

Another neighbour added: "It takes some kind of big men to go into a house, where a wee girl in her 20s lives, with a gun and threaten her."

"I'm not sure what exactly this was all about, and if she was the person they were looking, for but it's not right either way," they speculated.

The woman who lives at the address wasn't at home yesterday but forensics officers were there, continuing their investigation.

Local SDLP Councillor Martin Reilly asked anyone with information to get in contact with the police. He added: "This must have been a frightening experience for this woman and I would appeal to anyone who has information that would be useful to the police to contact them."

Police are appealing for anyone who was in Hollymount Park or Cecilia's Walk and who noticed a white Kia Sportage car early yesterday morning to contact them on 101 quoting reference number 444 02/12/18 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.A shocked teacher has resorted to buying fleece blankets for patients in Altnagelvin Hospital after his relatives saw an elderly woman "shivering in the cold" as she died.

Frank O'Hagan (60) has slammed managers at the hospital where his sister has been treated for lung cancer.

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She spent a week in a unit due to complications following major surgery and chemotherapy, before being discharged on Friday night.

Mr O'Hagan said: "The room is extremely cold, especially at night, but nothing is being done."

He said he now feels an obligation to fight for dignity on behalf of all the patients.

"They are all at a terribly vulnerable point in their lives and what they are being forced to endure is shocking and unacceptable."

Mr O'Hagan decided to speak out after a member of his family told him how an elderly woman passed away in the bed next to his sister.

He said: "My brother-in-law was visiting and he saw this frail lady lying on her bed wrapped in a scarf.

"She passed away around an hour after she told him: 'I'm so cold'.

"Her last words in those final moments of her life just broke my heart - where was the dignity as she lay shivering in the cold on her deathbed?"

Mr O'Hagan, who stressed that he understands the woman's death was a result of medical complications, said other patients in the unit were "deeply shocked and saddened" by the incident.

But he also said he has no doubt that cold conditions are having a negative impact on patients' health and that it is "not conducive" to their recovery.

The heartbreaking situation prompted the secondary school teacher to buy fleece bed covers for patients who might need extra warmth.

Mr O'Hagan has also raised concerns to staff who, he said, are "sympathetic" but unable to help.

"I was told they have to put a thermometer in the room before they can do anything," he said.

"What is the point in that?

"It's just going to tell them what they already know."

The English teacher even went out and bought a mini-heater after seeing blinds blowing in the wind on stormy evenings last week, despite all the windows being closed.

"I wasn't allowed to switch it on because it hadn't been PAT tested," he said.

Mr O'Hagan said he appreciates managers have procedures to follow, but said he believed that common sense has been abandoned.

He added: "The practical steps needed are obvious and staggeringly simple.

"These patients deserve their fair share of dignity."

While Mr O'Hagan praised nursing staff for their "professionalism and compassion" in the "outstanding" hospital, he said he cannot ignore the failings he had witnessed.

The Western Trust said they cannot comment on individual cases due to patient confidentiality.

It encouraged anyone with concerns to go through its "robust" complaints procedure.

They also said the trust promotes the Patients Advocacy Office to all patients, clients and relatives.Police at Portstewart promenade after reports of a body being found close to the harbour.

The area where the mans body was found in Portstewart yesterday morning

The body of a man was found on rocks close to the harbour in Portstewart yesterday - just metres from the seaside town's popular promenade.

Police are examining the circumstances surrounding the discovery, which happened at around 11.15am yesterday.

A large area of the town was quickly sealed off as police launched their investigation.

Officers wearing masks and a police forensics team examined the scene.

Causeway councillor Mark Fielding said last night that local people were shocked by news of the man's death.

"It's a dreadful tragedy," the councillor told the Belfast Telegraph last night.

"We don't yet know whether the deceased was a local man or not," Mr Fielding said.

"But this is a real tragedy for the poor man's family."Theresa May has told Tory MPs to hold their nerve and back her Brexit deal.

The Prime Minister insisted she would still have a job in two weeks time as she faces a crunch Commons vote on her EU withdrawal agreement on December 11. Mrs May told ITVs This Morning: At the end of the line it is, I think, about holding our nerve and getting this over the line so we can deliver on Brexit and people can have that better future.

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Asked if she would still have a job after the showdown vote, Mrs May said: I will still have a job in two weeks time.

My job is making sure that we do what the public asked us to, we leave the EU but we do it in a way that is good for them.

Pressed on whether she would resign if the Commons rejected her Brexit deal next week, Mrs May said: Im focusing on, you know, getting that vote, and getting the vote over the line.

This is not a, sort of 'oh, well, it's just any old vote'. Actually, this is about delivering for what people voted for when they voted in that referendum to leave the EUPrime Minister Theresa May

Because this is, as I say, its an important moment in our history.

This is not a, sort of oh, well, its just any old vote. Actually, this is about delivering for what people voted for when they voted in that referendum to leave the EU.

I think thats important for us as politicians to remember that.

Referring to calls for a new referendum, the PM said: People are talking about a second vote when we havent even delivered on the first vote.

We asked people to vote. We said please decide whether we should leave or remain.

People voted to leave and I think theres a, sort of, democratic duty on us as politicians, having had that referendum, and having said it is your choice, to actually deliver on it.

Asked if she was knackered after a busy schedule trying to convince the public of the benefits of her deal, Mrs May said: Its a tough time, its a difficult time  an awful lot of work has had to go into this.

But I always think the key thing is just keep focused on what the end point is. The end point is getting a good deal through for the UK and delivering on what people voted for.

That is what drives me.

Mrs May said MPs should reflect on the Brexit deal and back it in the national interest.

The PM said: We can be better off. Thats up to us. Its going to be different from being in the EU. It is a different relationship. But, thats what people voted for.

The comments came as Home Secretary Sajid Javid said it is very unlikely MPs will be able to see the Governments long-awaited immigration white paper ahead of the meaningful vote on the Brexit deal.

He told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: Its unlikely, actually very unlikely, to be published before the vote. It will be published soon.

Mr Javid also insisted the Brexit deal was the right deal for the country and dismissed reports that the vote will be pulled.

'I've got a deal that delivers what people voted for'.



Prime Minister Theresa May on her Brexit vision. pic.twitter.com/L3kUbeInV4  This Morning (@thismorning) December 3, 2018

He said: I dont think there is any chance of pulling the vote  I just dont see that happening.

The remarks came as demands grew for the Government to release the full legal advice on the Withdrawal Agreement in order to avoid a major constitutional battle with Parliament.

Attorney General Geoffrey Cox will on Monday attempt to head off a threat by opposition parties to initiate proceedings against the Government for contempt of Parliament.

Ministers have been accused of ignoring the will of the House after saying they will publish only a full reasoned political statement on the legal position concerning the Withdrawal Agreement.

The Government is to publish a command paper on the legal advice on the Brexit deal, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said.

Asked whether this would contain the full legal advice given to the Government by Mr Cox, the spokesman said: It is a full-reasoned position statement as David Lidington set out in the House a few weeks ago.

Adding to pressure on Mrs May, it was reported that the PMs chief Brexit adviser secretly warned her that the Northern Ireland backstop agreed in her deal with Brussels was a bad outcome for Britain.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, Oliver Robbins said the backstop, intended to prevent the return of a hard border with the Irish Republic, would mean the imposition of regulatory checks between the North and the rest of the UK, according to The Daily Telegraph.The PSNI is investigating 'exploitation and criminality' affecting the Roma community in Belfast and has appealed for those who may have been victims to come forward.

Police issued a statement after the BBC Nolan Show broadcast claims about the exploitation of Roma people in the south Belfast area.

Detective Chief Inspector Gary Reid said: In early August 2018, Criminal Investigations Branch in Belfast commenced an investigation into exploitation and criminality affecting the Roma Community.

The investigation was instigated by the contents of a number of social media posts and a number of posters which were erected in public areas in South Belfast in August. This investigation is ongoing and is being conducted in partnership with a number of agencies.

We would thank the individuals who have come forward so far and we would appeal to anyone in the community who has concerns about this issue to speak to police by contacting us on the non-emergency number 101.

UUP MLA Doug Beattie called for a "full investigation" into the allegations surrounding individuals linked to the Romanian Roma Community Association for Northern Ireland (RRCANI)

Mr Beattie, who is the UUP's justice spokesman, said: Many people will have been very concerned at the reports that have emerged regarding the activities of individuals linked to the RRCANI.

"This includes alleged intimidation and exploitation of the vulnerable Roma community in South Belfast, the very community they receive public funding to support.

Given RRCANI received payment from the Office of the First and Deputy First Minister, the Belfast Trust and Belfast City Council, it is clearly important that an investigation is completed as quickly and as thoroughly as possible without disrupting important support to this vulnerable group.

Exploitation of vulnerable individuals can lead to some very dark places indeed and I am concerned as to what other revelations may emerge."Emergency services at the scene where a man was rescued after falling into the River Lagan in Belfast yesterday

Police officers were praised for their part in a dramatic rescue yesterday on the River Lagan close to Belfast city centre.

Emergency services responded to reports that a man fell into the water close to the Obel Tower.

He was taken to safety and treated at the scene in an operation involving police, ambulance staff and river rescue personnel.

In a Facebook post, the PSNI's tactical support group said that they worked with members of the public to rescue a man who had fallen into the river. "Thankfully due to the quick actions of the public and officers on scene the male was brought to shore, given first aid and is now receiving the treatment required at hospital.

"We would like to thank those members of the public for their assistance in this incident."

One witness who saw the operation responded: "An unmarked car came up and without even thinking three of your officers ran out and did what they could, without any thought of themselves. They are a real credit! Well done."Serial killer Robert Black was a heavy smoker with high cholesterol when he died, a lawyer has told his inquest.

Black, 68, murdered four schoolgirls between 1981 and 1986.

He was a Scottish delivery driver who ranged across the UK in the 1980s and his victims were often found hundreds of miles from where they were abducted.

His inquest is being held in the same courtroom in Armagh city where he was convicted of the murder of Northern Irish schoolgirl Jennifer Cardy in 2011.

Black died at Maghaberry high-security prison in Co Antrim in January 2016.

Nobody from his family was present at his inquest and the Coroners Service was unable to trace anybody, coroner Paddy McGurgan said.

He was in his late sixties, a heavy smoker, with diabetes and high cholesterolStephen Ritchie, Coroners Service barrister

Stephen Ritchie, a barrister for the Coroners Service, said medics believed Black died from a heart attack after having a stroke 20 years earlier.

He said: He was in his late sixties, a heavy smoker, with diabetes and high cholesterol.

Black, from Falkirk in Scotland, was serving a number of life imprisonment sentences.

In May 1994 he was convicted of kidnapping, raping and murdering three girls.

Susan Maxwell was aged 11 when abducted in 1982 near the border between Scotland and England.

Her body was gagged and bound and she was found 250 miles away, in England.

The former delivery driver travelled extensively, Mr Ritchie noted.

His next victim was a girl aged five, Caroline Hogg, who was abducted from Portobello in Edinburgh in 1983 and her body was found 300 miles away.

Sarah Harper, aged 10, was abducted in 1986 and found dead in the River Trent near Nottingham.

In 1981 Black abducted and sexually assaulted Jennifer Cardy, nine, from Co Antrim.

He was convicted in 2011.Assessment of Activities of Parliament of Georgia of the Ninth Convocation

In the framework of the parliamentary monitoring program, Transparency International Georgia presents the Assessment of Activities of the Parliament of Georgia of the Ninth Convocations First Year, which covers the time period from November 18, 2016 till December 31, 2017.The following positive trends have been observed during the reporting period:Legislative process Unlike previous convocations, no plenary session was thwarted due to the absence of a Quorum. The government presented the legislative plan twice Unlike Parliament of the previous convocations, the Gender Equality Council is more activeExercising oversight Representatives of the executive branch attend committee sessions and present periodic reports on their activities. Committees held 133 sessions in this regard. Deputy Ministries mostly attended the sessions Parliament started reviewing the government reports on the state of enforcement of the decisions/resolutions made against Georgia by the corresponding committee of the United Nations Organization and the European Court of Human Rights The involvement of civil society in the election of public officials has been strengthened:for example, the candidacy for the post of the Public Defender was selected based on consultations with the civil society representatives.Exercising oversight During the first year of Parliament of the Ninth Convocation, MPs were more active in proposing legislative initiatives. During the period covered by the report, 92 MPs exercised this right[2] Parliamentary opposition (minority, Faction National Movement) boycotted the work of the Parliament five times and did not participate in the plenary sessions seven times. The President returned the legislative initiative five times back to the Parliament with motivated remarks. In all cases, the Parliament overrode the vetoTransparency Parliaments activities to increase transparency carried out during the period covered by the report deserve a positive assessment. Specifically, the implementation of the obligations envisaged by Open Parliament Action Plan 2017 increased the number of types of information subject to proactive disclosure, namely, various information categories were added,The following challenges were observed during the reporting period:Legislative process The situation has worsened with regard to the systematically speeding up the hearing of draft laws without good reason. Parliament fast-tracked the hearing of 111 draft laws of great importance as they concerned government changes Postponing the entry into force of the initiatives, specifically, during the period covered by the report, Parliament discussed by a simplified procedure and adopted 77 draft laws[3] The activities of working groups in some cases were formal and group members were not involved in the process of elaboration of draft lawsExercise of oversight MPs do not make a proper use of the possibilities of oversight over the executive branch; in addition, the Ninth Convocation has introduced a practice of holding working meetings with the executive agencies. During the period covered by the study, no investigative commission was established, even with regard to the issues as important as the abduction of Azerbaijani journalist Afgan Mukhtarli or the beating of former Auditor General Lasha Tordia Requests for statistical information continued to constitute a large part of questions posed by MPs. The use of this mechanism of oversight by MPs is not related to the oversight over the fulfilment of the government programme by the executive branch or other important issues of public policy For almost a year, Parliament was unable to staff the Group of Trust which has a power of special oversight over the [defence and security] sector Parliament does not monitor the legislative plan presented by the governmentAccountability of MPs During the very first year of Parliament of the Ninth Convocation, 2,119 instances of missing plenary sessions with provision of admissible excuse were recorded  of these, MPs indicated family circumstances as an excuse in 1,430 instances, which amounts to 68 percent of absences with provision of admissible excuses; Like in Parliament of the previous convocation, there were many instances during the period covered by the study when MPs violated the norms of ethics, including with participation of representatives of the executive branch and yet Parliament has not adopted a Code of Ethics for MPs to this day; MPs fill out asset declarations incorrectly, failing, in some cases, to indicate company shares that they own. Several MPs also hold positions of company directors.Important legislative amendments adopted by the ParliamentThe report assesses the legislation adopted by the Parliament. Laws that were assessed as positive are the following: Amendments Resulting from Ratification of Istanbul Convention, Changes in The Procedure of Submitting Asset Declarations, Amendments to Imprisonment Code, Abolition of Simplified Electronic Tenders, Initiative On Banning Smoking Tobacco. Legislative amendments, which require improvement, are the Third Wave of Judicial Reform, Road Safety Reform, New Regulations Concerning Remuneration in Civil Service. The report also negatively assesses several legislative amendments, such as creation of operative-technical agency, moratorium on selling of land, abolition of self-government entities, new rule for staffing election commissions, changes to the rule of debating legislative proposal.A serial robber who twice targeted the same pharmacy has won a legal battle over his continued imprisonment.

The High Court ruled that Parole Commissioners applied the wrong test in dealing with Mark Patrick Toal's latest bid to be released from prison.

Toal's case is now set to be considered again by a further panel later this month.

In 2012 the 34-year-old, was jailed for eight years for an armed raid on the pharmacy at Carrick Hill in north Belfast the previous year.

He had entered brandishing a bread knife and demanding the chemist hand over cash and pills.

Toal left the shop with a quantity of tablets and cash, but was arrested by police a short distance away.

He was convicted of robbery, possessing a bladed article in public, criminal damage, attempted criminal damage and assaulting police.

His criminal record dates from the age of 13 and contains more than 100 further convictions, including an earlier robbery at the pharmacy in 2004.

Earlier this year Parole Commissioners concluded that he still poses a risk of serious harm to the public.

On that basis they were not satisfied that his continued confinement was no longer necessary.

Toal's lawyers sought a judicial review of the decision, arguing that the Commissioners had failed to apply the correct legal test.

Central to proceedings was the assessment of dangerousness, and any reference to a "significant" risk of serious harm.

Mr Justice McCloskey held that there had been an error or law surrounding the Commissioner's decision.

"There has been a failure, readily demonstrated, to formulate the correct legal test," he said.

"I conclude that the applicant's challenge succeeds."

The judge added: "As there is an imminent further listing before a panel of Commissioners, a declaratory, rather than quashing, order would seem the appropriate remedy."The Belfast public have had their saying following the opening of a temporary walkway around the fire damaged Primark building in the city centre.

The walkway, bookended by separate tunnels - one 20m long by 2.6m wide at McDonalds, while the other mini tunnel at Spar measures 25m x 2.6m - will allow pedestrians to walk past fire-damaged Primark for the first time since the catastrophic blaze in August.

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Argento, McDonald's and Skechers reopened on Monday, and Spar will reopen on Tuesday with reduced hours.

Zara, Tesco Metro and British Heart Fountain remain closed while works continue to secure Bank Buildings, and City Picnic (extra market stalls in Donegall Place) and Abacus Beads (Queen's Arcade) will continue to trade from their temporary premises.

A new Primark store will open at Commonwealth House, on Castle Street, next Saturday December 8.

The Belfast Telegraph took to the streets on Monday to see how shoppers were finding the new walkway.

William Dale said that the new walkway was a "marvellous improvement".

"It makes all the difference just to have it open again. Hopefully they will keep the building from falling over" he said.

Sandra Fisher told us that the cordon had left her unable to visit one of her favourite shops.

Fred Dyer said that he didn't believe the walkway would change much, but that it was good to be able to get about the city centre more easily.

Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Aerial views showing the aftermath of the fire in the Bank Buildings - Primark Belfast - August 29th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Kevin Scott Aerial views showing the aftermath of the fire in the Bank Buildings - Primark Belfast - August 29th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Kevin Scott Aerial views showing the aftermath of the fire in the Bank Buildings - Primark Belfast - August 29th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Kevin Scott Aerial views showing the aftermath of the fire in the Bank Buildings - Primark Belfast - August 29th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Kevin Scott Aerial views showing the aftermath of the fire in the Bank Buildings - Primark Belfast - August 29th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Kevin Scott Aerial views showing the aftermath of the fire in the Bank Buildings - Primark Belfast - August 29th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Kevin Scott Aerial views showing the aftermath of the fire in the Bank Buildings - Primark Belfast - August 29th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Kevin Scott Aerial views showing the aftermath of the fire in the Bank Buildings - Primark Belfast - August 29th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Kevin Scott Aerial views showing the aftermath of the fire in the Bank Buildings - Primark Belfast - August 29th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Kevin Scott Aerial views showing the aftermath of the fire in the Bank Buildings - Primark Belfast - August 29th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Kevin Scott Aerial view over Bank Buildings following Tuesdays fire. Photo by Gregory Weeks. Photo by Gregory Weeks. Aerial view over Bank Buildings following Tuesdays fire.. Photo by Gregory Weeks. Aerial view over Bank Buildings following Tuesdays fire.. Aerial view over Bank Buildings following Tuesdays fire. Photo by Gregory Weeks. Photo by Gregory Weeks. Aerial view over Bank Buildings following Tuesdays fire.. Photo by Gregory Weeks. Aerial view over Bank Buildings following Tuesdays fire.. Photo by Gregory Weeks. Aerial view over Bank Buildings following Tuesdays fire.. Photo by Gregory Weeks. Aerial view over Bank Buildings following Tuesdays fire.. / Facebook

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Whatsapp Aerial views showing the aftermath of the fire in the Bank Buildings - Primark Belfast - August 29th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

"They should have done it ages ago, they should have done it the week after it happened," he said.

Carol and Allison McBride said that they had noticed an increase in the amount of shoppers since the walkway was opened.

John McDonald told us that the cordon hadn't changed his habits and had allowed him to see different parts of Belfast.

"Its been an interesting exploration tour," he said.

Susan Johnston said she thought the walkway was "fantastic" while Deborah Caskey and Lisa McMullan said that there was an immediate improvement as many of their favourite shops had been shut by the cordon.

Joan Ford and Susan Morrow said that it was good to see the work progressing and all the people out shopping.

Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Compsite showing the fire from 11:06 am to 4:35 pm Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service are attending an incident in Belfast city centre. The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service are attending an incident in Belfast city centre. Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Firefighters deal with a major blaze at Primark in Belfast on August 28th 2018 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph / Facebook

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Pedestrian access to other previously off-limits parts of the city close to the currently unsafe Primark building is expected to be restored in the coming weeks once support structures are put in place.

The August blaze left 14 businesses unable to trade and compensation money has been distributed to help those affected.

Earlier this month, it emerged the fire had caused a 30% drop in footfall in the city centre and a city council report found a reduction of almost 50% in some areas close to Bank Buildings.Anti Brexit billboards on the northern side of the border between Newry in Northern Ireland and Dundalk in the Republic of Ireland (Niall Carson/PA)

The Irish border question has been central to the Brexit negotiations ahead of next months Commons vote on the EU withdrawal treaty.

Here are a few questions answered:

 What has been agreed?

A protocol setting out details of a backstop solution to prevent the establishment of a hard border on the island after Brexit.

The backstop is an insurance policy, only to be implemented if no better permanent solution is found.

 How will it work?

Once the Brexit transition period ends in December 2020, the EU and the UK have agreed the backstop would apply until such a time as a subsequent agreement is in place.

This would create a single EU-UK customs territory avoiding the need for tariffs, quotas or checks on rules of origin between the EU and the UK.

Northern Irish businesses will not face restrictions when placing products on the EUs Single Market.

 What is the single customs territory?

Expand Close A lorry stops at a mock customs post set up at Ravensdale, Co Louth (Niall Carson/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook

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The UK will align the tariffs and rules applicable to its customs territory to the European Unions external tariffs and rules of origin.

There will therefore be no tariffs, quotas and checks on rules of origin between the EU and the UK, with the exception of fishery products;

 Will Northern Ireland remain aligned to the rules and regulations of the EU?

The UK, in respect of Northern Ireland, will remain aligned to a limited set of rules related to the EUs Single Market which are indispensable for avoiding a hard border: legislation on goods, sanitary rules for veterinary controls, rules on agricultural production/marketing, VAT and excise duty on goods.

-Will there need to be checks between Northern Ireland and Ireland?

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Not on goods or people crossing the land border.

 What else does the Protocol contain?

The UK will ensure that there will be no diminution of rights, safeguards and equality of opportunity enshrined in the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.

The Single Electricity Market will be maintained on the island.

North-South cooperation will continue in areas like environment, health, agriculture, transport, education, tourism, energy, telecommunications, broadcasting, inland fisheries, justice and security, higher education and sport.

 What have Brexiteers said?

Expand Close Boris Johnson called for the backstop to be junked as he warned that the draft Brexit deal was in danger of turning Northern Ireland into an economic semi-colony of the EU (Michael Cooper/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Boris Johnson called for the backstop to be junked as he warned that the draft Brexit deal was in danger of turning Northern Ireland into an economic semi-colony of the EU (Michael Cooper/PA)

Boris Johnson called for the backstop to be junked as he warned that the draft Brexit deal was in danger of turning Northern Ireland into an economic semi-colony of the EU.

The former Foreign Secretary said the UK was on the verge of making a historic mistake and Johnson said the EU had achieved a very clever trick by making Northern Ireland an indispensable bargaining chip in future negotiations.

 What does the DUP say?

A short clip of my interview with @AndrewMarr9

- Withdrawal Agreement is a bad deal for the UK.

- Does not let us take back control.

- Very little enthusiasm for the Withdrawal Agreement across the House of Commons.

- Time for a better deal. https://t.co/mHBCYQXuDS  Arlene Foster #WeWillMeetAgain (@ArleneFosterUK) November 25, 2018

Leader Arlene Foster urged the Government to look beyond the draft Withdrawal Agreement and work for an improved outcome.

Her partys 10 MPs are set to vote against the deal on December 11 over opposition to the backstop and concerns it could separate Northern Ireland from its main market  the rest of the UK.

 What do pro-Remain voices in Northern Ireland say?

Sinn Fein president Mary-Lou McDonald has said there should be no re-negotiation of the deal and the backstop represented the least worst option.

Business leaders have said the package on offer is better than a no-deal alternative, in which Northern Ireland would be one of the hardest-hit parts of the UK.The police probe into alleged abuse suffered by residents at a Belfast care home is to be extended, it can be revealed today.

Detectives investigating a litany of alleged abuse and neglect at Dunmurry Manor have said they are widening their work to follow new lines of enquiry.

Julieann McNally, whose grandmother lived at the home, said she had been contacted by officers last week with an update on their investigation.

"We got a phone call from the police who told us that their investigation into Dunmurry Manor is widening as a result of information they have gathered so far. It seems that they are going to be investigating more people than they originally expected," she said.

"As a family we are obviously delighted at this development and we hope the police are able to progress their investigation swiftly."

In August, the PSNI launched the investigation into allegations of mistreatment of residents at Dunmurry Manor.

It came after an explosive report into conditions at the home by the Commissioner for Older People in Northern Ireland, Eddie Lynch. He made a damning assessment of the conditions at the facility in which he outlined inhumane and degrading treatment of residents.

Findings included residents going without medication for weeks at a time, resident on resident sex attacks, unexplained injuries and shocking weight loss.

One resident had a bed sore so deep that her bone was exposed, while family members were forced to buy incontinence pads for their loved ones as the ones provided by the home were of such poor quality.

Mr Lynch also revealed that staff members bought their own blood pressure monitors because the ones in the home were broken.

He launched his investigation into the facility after concerns were repeatedly raised by health trusts, the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) and relatives of residents at the home.

When the Commissioner published his findings in June, he said: "My investigation found that many of these terrible incidents occurred during periods of time when the regulator, the RQIA, reported the home to be meeting the required standards of care.

"Despite the regulator carrying out 23 inspections in a 39 month period, they did not find the extent of the problems experienced by many residents.

"There was a failure by Dunmurry Manor and its parent company, Runwood Homes Ltd, to respond to the concerns identified by staff, relatives, and some inspections.

"This was compounded by a failure of statutory agencies to act to protect the basic human rights of residents and their families."

A PSNI spokeswoman said: "Detectives from PSNI Public Protection Branch continue to investigate allegations concerning the treatment and care provided to residents at Dunmurry Manor Care Home.

"As the investigation has progressed, naturally new lines of enquiry have been identified and more families are coming forward to speak to us about their loved ones' experience.

"From the outset we have been clear that the investigation will go wherever the evidence takes us."Former Sinn Fein member Peadar Toibin has taken another swipe at the party, saying that a "diversity of views is not tolerated".

In leaflets issued to his constituents, Mr Toibin described the role of TDs in major parties as "clones".

The Meath West TD left Sinn Fein last month after being suspended because his strong pro-life views went against the pro-choice mandate of the party.

The suspension was activated after he defied the party and voted against the legislation to allow abortion services in Ireland.

Mr Toibin is now looking to ramp up support for his new political movement - with his first public meeting in Navan tonight.

"Over the last two years I was held back and significantly prevented in fighting for the people of Meath," he said.

"It has become increasingly clear that on a whole range of issues all the main political parties seek to inhabit the same space in time.

"Diversity of views is not tolerated and TDs are forced to become clones simply reading press statements and not thinking for themselves.

"I ask you to join with me to build a new movement throughout Ireland, one that fights for unity, economic justice and protecting the vulnerable."

On November 1, Mr Toibin was handed a six-month suspension by Sinn Fein, and two weeks later he announced he would be leaving the party.

At the time, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said it was "with regret" that she heard of Mr Toibin's resignation, adding he was "a valued member of the party".

"Sinn Fein is home to a diversity of views.

"We debate and our members vote on policy at our ard fheis," she said.

"All Sinn Fein elected representatives are bound by the decisions of the ard fheis," she added.Marketing English In Ireland has said arrangements will be made to ensure all students can complete their studies (Ben Birchall/PA)

More than 20 teachers have been told they will not be paid their salaries following the snap closure of a Dublin English-language school, a trade union has claimed.

Grafton College did not open as expected on Monday leaving students and teachers in limbo in the lead up to Christmas.

A meeting between management and teachers took place on Monday morning to discuss the abrupt closure of the school in Portobello.

Unite said 23 teachers, of which many are union members, have been left unpaid and more than 500 international students have been affected.

Regional organiser Roy Hassey said: Its official the school is closing.

Teachers were told [at the meeting] that the school is closing and that a liquidator is going to be appointed, he said.

Mr Hassey added: Teachers were told by one of the directors of the college that they will not be paid the months salary that they are owed.

The issue came to light on Saturday when teachers contacted Unite to say that they had not been paid their monthly salary on Friday.

A protest took place outside the school on Monday evening demanding the protection of teachers rights.

It's horrendous, I don't know what we're going to doAffected teacher, Robert Dunlop

The teachers occupied the Portobello premises demanding that Education and Skills Minister Joe McHugh visit the college and speak to staff.

The union is calling for a commitment from the owners and the directors that the staff will be paid whats owed to them.

Robert Dunlop, one of the teachers affected, said that he had got married on Saturday and now he was without a job.

His wife Gisela is due with their first child at the end of December.

Its horrendous, I dont know what were going to do, Mr Dunlop said.

A message posted on the Grafton College Facebook page said teachers had been overwhelmed by the level of support from the students.

Thank you so much for all your kind words, hugs and tears, it read.

Were all in shock at the sudden closure of the school.

Students have said that they paid fees of up to 2,000 euro to study at the college.

Its expected that they will be able to finish their courses at other colleges.

In a statement Marketing English In Ireland (MEI), which represents accredited English-language colleges in Ireland, said management of Grafton College had informed them of trading difficulties at the college and the likely impact on students.

In the event of a closure of an MEI school, it is common practice for other MEI schools to offer places to displaced students to ensure they can complete their studies.

Arrangements will be put in place by MEI to ensure all students are enabled to complete their studies, the statement read.

Mr Hassey added that the closure reinforced the need for legislation to protect the interests of both teachers and students in the highly-profitable English language sector.

Now: #UniteELT #GraftonTeachers protesting outside Grafton College, which has closed down leaving teachers owed a month's wages. We need legislation to protect ELTs! pic.twitter.com/YDqclB6PP2  UNITE union Ireland (@UniteunionROI) December 3, 2018

Proposed legislation aimed at ensuring compliance with minimum labour standards is making its way through the Oireachtas.

Its expected to be debated in the Seanad on Wednesday.

It is not in the interests of teachers, students or the wider economy that rogue employers be allowed to continue operating in the English language teaching sector, he said.

I would appeal to all Senators to look at what is happening in Portobello and support amendments designed to ensure minimum employment standards for English language teachers, he said.

This legislation, with the amendments, needs to be fast-tracked in the interests of the sector as a whole, Mr Hassey concluded.

Attempts to contact Grafton College on Monday were not successful.Sir David Attenborough has issued a stark warning that the collapse of civilisations and extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizon without action to tackle climate change.

The naturalist and TV presenter delivered a message from people around the world to United Nations climate talks in Katowice, Poland, calling for leaders and decision-makers to take charge on driving down greenhouse gas emissions.

Sir David was speaking on behalf of the UNs Peoples Seat initiative to give ordinary people a voice at the international talks by gathering their thoughts, ideas and concerns through social media and polling in the past two weeks.

He said the world is facing its greatest threat in thousands of years: climate change.

If we dont take action, the collapse of our civilisations and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizon.

And he said: The worlds people have spoken, their message is clear, time is running out, they want you, the decision-makers, to act now.

Theyre supporting you in making tough decisions but theyre also willing to make sacrifices in their daily lives.

People from all over the  have taken part in creating this address, answering polls, creating videos & voicing their opinions about #climatechange in advance of #COP24> https://t.co/FdtFD5znxY The Peoples Seat enables people to take personal #climateaction. #TakeYourSeat pic.twitter.com/zR4qqtex7Y  UN Climate Change (@UNFCCC) December 3, 2018

The UN has launched an ActNow.bot which helps people discover simple everyday actions they can take to tackle climate change.

Sir David said: The people have spoken: leaders of the world, you must lead, the continuation of our civilisations and the natural world upon which we depend are in your hands.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned negotiators at the meeting that the world was in deep trouble with climate change.

Climate change is running faster than we are and we must catch up sooner rather than later, before its too late.

For many people, regions and even countries, this is already a matter of life and death.

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He also said that climate action is not just the right thing to do, it makes social and economic sense, pointing to how action to cut emissions will curb air pollution deaths and generate millions of jobs and trillions of dollars.

The speeches come after four former presidents of the annual UN climate talks warned the world is at a crossroads and decisive action in the next two years would be crucial to tackle the threat of climate change.

In a joint statement, Frances Laurent Fabius, Frank Bainimarama, from Fiji, Salaheddine Mezouar, from Morocco, and Perus Manuel Pulgar Vidal said: The challenges are there, as are the solutions.

We require deep transformations of our economies and societies to build a better world for all. This must be powered by multilateral co-operation.

They called for ambitious decisions which are sufficiently detailed and comprehensive to enable the effective operation of the Paris Agreement, secured three years ago in the French capital to curb global warming.

A process to enable countries to announce efforts by 2020 to ramp up their domestic ambition on cutting greenhouse gas emissions must be launched, they said, as current efforts are not enough to prevent dangerous temperature rises.

And there needs to be progress on the goal of mobilising 100 billion US dollars (78 billion) a year for poorer countries to drive clean growth, they urged.

The World Bank has announced it is doubling investments in climate action with 200 billion US dollars (157 billion) for 2021-2025, including 50 billion US dollars (39 billion) towards helping countries adapt to the impacts of global warming.

Negotiators at the talks will hear details of a global review on climate change-tackling efforts, and the pressure is on to work towards increasing commitments from countries by 2020.

The talks in Poland also aim to draw up the rulebook for making the Paris deal operational, and poorer countries will be looking for a boost to the finance being made available to help them develop cleanly.Qabid the rhino at Edinburgh Zoo who had to freed by firefighters after getting stuck in a tyre (RZSS Edinburgh Zoo/PA)

Firefighters have used cutting gear to free a rhino stuck in a tyre for more than an hour.

Keepers at Edinburgh Zoo called out the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service as their last hope after failing to free the juvenile male rhino, which had its head and leg through the tyre.

Firefighters from Sighthill attended at around 5.45pm on Sunday and used specialised cutting equipment to free the stricken animal.

After the tyre was removed the rhino was left in the care of zookeepers and vets.Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

A spokeswoman for the fire service said: Crews from sighthill fire station attended and freed the rhino using e-hydraulic cutting equipment.

The male juvenile rhino had been trapped with his leg and neck stuck in the tyre since 4pm.

After the tyre was removed the rhino was left in the care of zookeepers and vets.

One zookeeper said the fire service were their last hope since the zoo had been trying to free the rhino since 4pm.

The rhino was not injured.

Darren McGarry, head of living collections at Edinburgh Zoo, said: Our greater one horned rhino Qabid loves to play with his tyre, its one of his favourite things to do.

On Sunday, he managed to get his head and a leg stuck while playing and we had to contact the fire service for assistance to use their specialist cutting equipment.

The tyre was safely removed and Qabid is doing fine. We would like to thank the fire service for their help.

Qabid arrived at the zoo in July.

John Hanlin, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service group manager, said: The crew did a great job in a very unusual situation.

The rhino was stuck tight in the tyre and had to be sedated by the Zoo vets as he was becoming distressed.

Edinburgh Zoo staff informed me that this event wasnt the first time he had got himself stuck but he usually manages to get himself out  he very clearly wasnt so nimble or lucky on this occasion.

Our crew used specialist cutting equipment which is normally used for the extraction of persons involved in road traffic collisions.

He added: Once the firefighters managed to cut the tyre and free Qabid, the zoo vets gave him a drug to counteract the sedative and bring him round  and he was quickly back to his mischievous self.

Its not every day that our crews come into contact with such a beautiful animal.The engagement ring was recovered by the NYPD below a Times Square utility grate (NYPD via AP)

A groom-to-be at the centre of an online appeal after his fiancees engagement ring dropped down a New York City grate has said he is absolutely ecstatic that the jewellery has been found.

The newly engaged pair, named by police as John and Daniella and said to be from the UK, were the subject of a mass Twitter search after New York Police Department (NYPD) shared footage of them desperately trying to retrieve the ring from a pavement grate.

The force said officers had managed to recover the jewellery and appealed for help in tracking the couple down after they left the area without leaving any contact details.

NYPD later revealed they had found John and Daniella, and that arrangements were being made to reunite the bride and groom-to-be with the ring.

Speaking to the New York Times, John said: Were absolutely ecstatic. We just cannot believe it.

The newspaper reported that the couple had become engaged in Central Park just hours earlier, but the ring was too big and later slipped off in Times Square, falling down the grate.

I just thought it was gone forever, Daniella told the paper.

I was devastated, she added. I was literally crying. It was the worst moment of my life.

The original appeal was re-tweeted more than 25,000 times and NYPD tweeted its thanks on Sunday.

Thank you, Twitter. Case closed!



Love,

John, Daniella, and the NYPD. pic.twitter.com/G7eB1Ds7vP  NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 2, 2018

They said: We would like to thank everyone who shared this story! The (now) happy couple is back in their home country, but thanks to your retweets they heard we were looking for them! Were making arrangements to get them their ring back. Congratulations!

The force followed up with a picture of the happy couple holding a celebratory drink, with the words: Thank you, Twitter. Case closed! Love, John, Daniella, and the NYPD.A disastrous no-deal Brexit is the most-likely outcome if Theresa Mays deal is rejected by MPs, the Scottish Secretary has warned.

The Secretary of State for Scotland David Mundell urged MPs to back the Prime Minister and vote for the Brexit deal.

Speaking after giving a Brexit briefing to Scotlands leading financial service companies in Edinburgh, Mr Mundell said: The financial services industry is very clear: we need a deal, we need an orderly exit from the EU and we need certainty.

Like business more generally  and I think the public  they want to see MPs reducing uncertainty, stopping chaos and further division, concluding a deal and allowing business to move forward.

I'm confident, still, that we can get the deal through next weekDavid Mundell

Dismissing the possibility of renegotiating the deal, he said: No deal is the most-likely alternative to there being a deal.

Anyone who votes against the deal is increasing the prospect of there being a no deal and I cant understand how anyone can contemplate that given the disastrous impact it would have on Scotland.

Asked about First Minister Nicola Sturgeons calls for extending the length of Article 50, Mr Mundell replied: I dont see any circumstances where Article 50 should be extended, its just extending the uncertainty, the division and the confusion.

I can see quite clearly thats something that would appeal to Nicola Sturgeon because shes now promoting a no-deal scenario because she believes that chaos and division is the best backdrop for having another independence referendum.

After the event with Mr Mundell, Scottish Financial Enterprise chief executive Graeme Jones said: An orderly withdrawal from the European Union is essential to enable Scottish financial services to serve clients and customers without disruption.

The Withdrawal Agreement represents progress towards this as it provides clarity on a transition period which will allow our sector additional time to prepare for the complex process of the UK leaving the EU.

However, there is more hard work to be done including securing the necessary regulatory cooperation and SFE will continue to seek assurances from the UK Government in this regard.

With pressure mounting on the Prime Minister ahead of next Tuesdays vote, Mr Mundell refused to be drawn on whether Theresa Mays premiership would survive if the deal was rejected in Parliament.

Wider speculation isnt in any way helpful, he said. Its a big week, theres going to be five full days of debate.

Im confident, still, that we can get the deal through next week.

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With eight days to go until the vote, 20 Conservative MPs have said publicly they will vote against Mrs Mays deal, 45 Cons MPs have said they will not vote in favour while 26 another Tory MPs have declared they are unhappy with the deal.

The Prime Minister will need the support of at least 320 MPs to win the vote, but faces an uphill task with Labour, the SNP, Plaid Cymru and the DUP all coming out against the deal.

The Scottish Secretarys warning comes after Mrs May told Tory MPs to hold their nerve and back her Brexit deal.

Mrs May told ITVs This Morning: At the end of the line it is, I think, about holding our nerve and getting this over the line so we can deliver on Brexit and people can have that better future.

The PM added: We can be better off. Thats up to us. Its going to be different from being in the EU.

It is a different relationship. But, thats what people voted for.Police at the scene after a man was shot during a police operation in Wimbledon, south-west London.

A 23-year-old man has been shot as armed police swooped to foil the robbery of a cash van.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police Flying Squad along with marksmen were lying in wait to stop the cash-in-transit raid outside a supermarket in Wimbledon, south-west London on Monday.

The man was shot at around 8.10am in Lacock Close after officers confronted suspected robbers outside a branch of Sainsburys in nearby Haydons Road.

He was taken to hospital where his condition was not life-threatening.

The man was later arrested for conspiracy to rob, as was a second man.

A suspected stolen car was also found at the scene.

A man has been shot during a police operation in #Lacock Close, near #Haydons Road, in Wimbledon https://t.co/SLjr9qs6Uj pic.twitter.com/EeAlLHvtoT  Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) December 3, 2018

One witness who was working in the street at the time of the shooting told the Press Association undercover police had tried to catch two armed robbers.

The man, who did not want to be named, said the two men were seen trying to rob a large white van parked outside the Sainsburys Local.

When watching officers swarmed out of bushes and into the street the two men fled, he said.

He added: The cops were waiting for them. We were just working here and were on the street when it happened. We heard commotion and then there was silence.

Then we saw a guy running up the street. When he saw he was turning into a cul de sac he turned and fired on the cops, then they returned fire.

The guy who was running for sure had a gun. The cops came after him and must have cornered him here (in Lacock Close).

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The Flying Squads main focus is robbery and it is known for staging dramatic takedowns of armed robbers as they try to flee the scene of a crime.

It is rare for British armed police to actually fire their guns during operations.

In the year to March 2018, there were 12 incidents in which police firearms were discharged out of 18,746 armed operations.

A Sainsburys spokeswoman said: We can confirm an incident took place outside our Haydons Road Local. Were supporting the police with their investigation.

Watchdog the Independent Office for Police Conduct is carrying out its own investigation into the shooting.

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One resident told local news website GetWestLondon that they had seen lots of undercover police cars and lots of police with guns around.

They added: Someone was put into an ambulance with a large bandage wrapped around their arm.

Heard police radioing for ambulance, saying that someone had been shot.Americans will begin saying goodbye to former President George HW Bush on Monday when his body arrives in Washington for public viewing in the Capitol Rotunda.

The public viewing will kick off four days of events that will include a state funeral at Washingtons National Cathedral on Wednesday and a private service at Mr Bushs longtime church in Houston on Thursday.

But tributes from leaders around the world have been pouring in since his death Friday night.

Former Secretary of State Colin Powell called him a perfect American for how he served the country in so many capacities.

He never forgot who he was, Mr Powell, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during Bushs presidency, told ABCs This Week on Sunday.

He never let it all go to his head. He was a man of great humility.

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Mr Bush, who died at his Houston home at age 94, will be buried on Thursday on the grounds of his presidential library at Texas A&M University.

In Washington DC, he will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda from Monday to Wednesday.

President Donald Trump, who ordered federal offices closed for a national day of mourning on Wednesday, is to attend with first lady Melania Trump and other high-ranking officials.

On Sunday, Mr Bushs spokesman posted a photo of the late presidents service dog lying in front of a flag-draped casket.

Jim McGrath posted the picture of the yellow Labrador retriever named Sully on Twitter with the caption, Mission complete. #Remembering41.

Mr Bush received Sully in June from Americas VetDogs non-profit organisation. The president had a form of Parkinsons disease, and Sully could open doors, pick up items and summon help.

KTRK-TV in Houston reported that Sully will return to Americas VetDogs in New York before joining the Water Reed National Military Medical Centres Facility Dog Programme.

James Baker, Bushs former chief of staff and secretary of state, called his boss tenure in office a consequential presidency because of his foreign policy achievements.

Yes, hes a one-term president but he is going to be and was a very consequential one-term president. And I would argue far and away the best one-term president weve ever had, Mr Baker told ABCs This Week.

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Mr Bushs crowning achievement as president was assembling the international military coalition that liberated the tiny, oil-rich nation of Kuwait from invading Iraq in 1991 in a war that lasted just 100 hours.

He also presided over the end of the Cold War between the United States and the former Soviet Union.

At the G20 summit in Argentina, German chancellor Angela Merkel, who was raised in East Germany, told reporters she likely would never have become her countrys leader had Mr Bush not pressed for the nations reunification in 1990.

A humble hero of the Second World War, Mr Bush was just 20 when he survived being shot down during a bombing run over Japan. He enlisted in the Navy on his 18th birthday.

Shortly before leaving the service, he married his 19-year-old sweetheart, Barbara Pierce, in a union that lasted until her death earlier this year.

He knew what combat was all about, Mr Powell said on This Week.

He knew that combat meant the death of people, people on your side and people on the other side. And so he wanted to avoid a war.

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Mr Bush turned his attention to politics in the 1960s, being elected to his first of two terms in Congress in 1967. He would go on to serve as ambassador to the United Nations and China, head of the CIA and chairman of the Republican National Committee before being elected to two terms as Ronald Reagans vice president.

Soon after he reached the zenith of his political popularity following the liberation of Kuwait, the US economy began to sour and voters began to believe that Mr Bush, never a great orator, was out of touch with ordinary people. He lost his bid for re-election to then-Arkansas governor Bill Clinton, who would later become a close friend.

It was not only former political rivals Bush found easy to befriend.

cMolina, whose family owns Molinas Cantina, one of Bushs favourite Tex-Mex restaurants in Houston, said he remembers Mr Bushs kindness to his staff whenever he would stop by to eat.

No matter which party youre affiliated with, everybody seemed to say the same things about President Bush, Mr Molina said. He was a down-to-earth person, approachable, and just a good man.President Donald Trump has reached out to Pakistans prime minister, sending Imran Khan a letter seeking Islamabads co-operation in bringing the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year war in neighbouring Afghanistan, officials have said.

The development could help ease tension between Washington and Islamabad.

Relations soured after Mr Trump last month alleged that Pakistan harboured al Qaida leader Osama bin Laden despite getting billions of dollars in American aid.

Pakistans foreign ministry quoted Mr Trump as saying in the letter that he considers his most important regional priority achieving a negotiated settlement to the Afghan war and that he was seeking Pakistans support and facilitation toward that goal.

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It said Mr Trump acknowledged the war has cost dearly both the United State and Pakistan.

The ministry also said Mr Trump emphasised Pakistan and Washington should explore opportunities to work together and renew their partnership.

Pakistani authorities did not release the letter, which information minister Fawad Chaudhry said Mr Khan received on Monday morning.

The ministry welcomed the US presidents outreach, saying: Pakistan has always advocated a political settlement to end war in Afghanistan.

Pakistan reiterates its commitment to play the role of facilitator in good faith, the ministry statement said.

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Peace and stability in Afghanistan remains a shared responsibility.

Pakistani media outlets, whose reporters met with Mr Khan in Islamabad on Monday, quoted the prime minister as saying that Pakistan would continue its efforts to help peace in Afghanistan.

When Mr Trump levelled his accusation about bin Laden last month, Islamabad said such baseless rhetoric  was totally unacceptable.

Mr Khan at the time stressed the United States had provided what he described as a minuscule 20 billion US dollars in aid to Pakistan.

Trumps false assertions add insult to the injury Pak has suffered in US WoT in terms of lives lost & destabilised & economic costs. He needs to be informed abt historical facts. Pak has suffered enough fighting US's war. Now we will do what is best for our people & our interests  Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 19, 2018

Bin Laden was killed by US commandos in a surprise raid in May 2011 in the Pakistani garrison city of Abbottabad.

According to Imtiaz Gul, a Pakistani analyst, Mr Trumps letter indicates there is a realisation within the US administration that Pakistans co-operation is vital to ensuring peace in Afghanistan.

Despite near-daily attacks by the Taliban, who now hold sway in about half of Afghanistans territory, the Trump administration has stepped up efforts to find a peaceful solution to the protracted war.

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad was expected to arrive in Pakistan this week during his visit to the region to revive peace talks with the Taliban.

According to the US State Department, Mr Khalilzad will travel to Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Belgium, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar with a delegation from December 2 to December 20.The US flag flies at half-staff in honour of former president George HW Bush at Walkers Point, the Bushs summer home in Maine

Donald Trump will attend the state funeral for George HW Bush, despite his past criticism of the former president.

Mr Trump declared a period of national mourning and ordered American flags to be flown at half-mast for 30 days to honour a man of "sound judgment, common sense and unflappable leadership".

Congressional leaders announced Mr Bush will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda from this evening until the funeral Wednesday morning. Mr Trump also said he will send Air Force One to Texas to transport the coffin to Washington.

While Mr Trump spoke graciously of Mr Bush, he has not always been so kind to the former president or his family.

He ran against one of Mr Bush's sons, Jeb, in the Republican presidential primaries in 2016, and was sharply critical of the two-term presidency of his other son George W Bush.

Mr Trump shattered the unwritten norms of the small fraternity of Oval Office occupants by keeping up criticism of the Bushes from the West Wing.

The White House announced on Saturday that the Trumps would attend the funeral at Washington's National Cathedral. The announcement marked a reversal from earlier this year when the president was not invited to the funeral of former First Lady Barbara Bush, the family matriarch and the late president's wife of 73 years. Melania Trump attended instead.

Mr and Mrs Trump said Mr Bush had "inspired generations of his fellow Americans to public service".

The 25 years since Mr Bush left office featured his Republican Party's steady march away from his steely pragmatism and international partnership, culminating in the dramatic break from long-held Republican principles ushered in by Mr Trump's election. It coincided with a swing in the nation as a whole toward more tribal politics.

Mr Trump also said he spoke with George W and Jeb to express his sympathies.

Sitting alongside German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the G20, he refused to answer whether he had any regrets over his past criticism of the Bushes. He did say that Mr Bush's death "really puts a dampener" on his participation at the summit.

Mr Trump cancelled a planned news conference, tweeting that "out of respect for the Bush Family and former President George H.W. Bush we will wait until after the funeral" to hold one.

He designated Wednesday as a national day of mourning and encouraged Americans to gather in places of worship "to pay homage" to Mr Bush's memory, adding: "I invite the people of the world who share our grief to join us in this solemn observance."I see loyalist ex-paramilitaries are unhappy with Mrs May's deal. We are told by the chairman of the Loyalist Communities Council (LCC), which is supported by the Red Hand Commando, the UDA and the UFF, that recently they met the Permanent Secretary of the Northern Ireland Office to explain their objections.

"The members, some of whom voted to remain," said David Campbell, an ex-chairman of the UUP, "were extremely hostile about the deal, and were urging the official to convey to the Prime Minister the real need to get a definitive power for the UK to end the backstop unilaterally, if need be."

I don't doubt Mr Campbell's good intentions , but he keeps dodgy company, by which I mean not just people linked to paramilitary organisations that are involved with crime, but also Jonathan Powell, who until they both resigned in 2007 was Tony Blair's Chief of Staff and a prime mover in the peace process.

Since he retired from public office, Mr Powell has given much time to his self-appointed role as an international peace-maker.

Not only is he prepared to talk to anyone, but he wants governments to do the same.

He was no sooner out of office than he was calling for talks with Al Qaeda and the Taliban.

Mr Powell - who famously became so fond of Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness that he asked them to his wedding - seems to have no moral scruples about giving terrorists an inflated idea of their own importance and a status they don't deserve.

He's been happy in his mediator activities to team up with, among others, Gerry Kelly.

That's the Gerry Kelly who's been participating proudly in a roadshow dedicated to glorifying a 1983 prison escape during which, an official inquiry later found, he shot a prison officer in the head.

So it was no surprise that the LCC turned out to be a brainchild of Mr Powell.

To be fair, the organisation has the commendable objective of tackling criminality, educational under-achievement and the failure of politics to bring loyalists in from the cold.

When in October 2015 Mr Powell spoke to the media about it, he described this as "the one issue we never addressed successfully".

Actually there are plenty of issues he and Mr Blair never addressed successfully.

It was on their watch that infamously the political centre ground was destroyed and - to placate the IRA - a disgraceful legacy deal was done that slants the justice system away from pursuing terrorists and towards hounding the agents of the state.

All murder is wrong and all murderers should be brought to justice, but we've had millions spent on investigating the murder of Pat Finucane - who was named as a member of the Provisionals by IRA double-agent Sean O'Callaghan - while virtually nothing has been done to pursue hundreds of equally foul murders of members of the security forces that saved Northern Ireland from civil war.

I understand why loyalist paramilitaries look at the success of Sinn Fein and are jealous that republican terrorists get into government and their loyalist equivalents don't.

That's because unionists don't vote for paramilitaries and republicans do, largely because of a twisted but brilliantly presented republican narrative of victimhood about MOPE (the Most Oppressed People Ever).

My heroes of the Troubles apart from brave servants of the state are the ordinary people of Northern Ireland who respected the rule of law, rejected violence and refused to vote for criminals.

They have been, and still are, consistently let down by weak and amoral London and Dublin politicians who give in to those who threaten the most and shout the loudest.

I understand the importance of pragmatism, and another time I'll be more constructive, but just for now I want to endorse a tweet I came across that responded to the news item about the LCC's views on the backstop.

"Don't give a f*** what the UVF, UDA, UFF, PIRA, CIRA, RIRA, People's Front of Judea, Judean People's Front or any other irrelevant organisation thinks."

Sometimes all we can do is publicly declare our contempt for the people who brought misery to the province and expect to be rewarded for it.If you have *Turkey Leftovers from Thanksgiving dinner, make Turkey Mole*! According to common legend *mole was originally created for turkey*. At the Con...

18 hours agoThe walkway outside Primark in Belfast is due to open today

the good news today is that a new walkway is opening to connect Royal Avenue to Donegall Place, and a number of shops in the area will re-open.

The fire which destroyed the Bank Buildings in Belfast has cast a cloud over the business and social life of the city centre over the last few months.

However, there is more encouraging news of large crowds attending the Christmas market at City Hall.

Belfast is a city of resilient people, and after the recent turmoil it is encouraging to see the light that is emerging, literally and symbolically, from the darkness. Christmas is a time for hope. It is badly needed in the heart of our city.Chris Mc Clelland from Brewbot at the Web Summit in Dublin.

A bust pub and brewing machine firm has left debts of nearly 2million which cannot be repaid, Sunday Life can reveal.

The firm, Brewbot, set up by Chris McClelland in 2015, operated a popular bar of the same name on the Ormeau Road in south Belfast and produced computerised beer brewing machines.

Read More

But it collapsed last year despite having raised nearly 150,000 from a public crowd fund and 82,000 in funding from taxpayer-backed Invest NI.

Documents published on the Companies House website last week state there are no assets left to repay any of those owed money by the firm.

They say there were hopes debts could be paid from the sale of "intellectual property inherent in the brewing equipment" but no investors could be found to fund further development.

insufficient

The lease of the bar on the Ormeau Road was also transferred, to Galway Bay Brewery "at a very small premium", which now operates the Northern Lights bar in the building.

It also states the creditors are owed 1.8m but "there will be insufficient realisations to enable a dividend to any class of creditor".

The supervisor of the company voluntary arrangement concludes by recommending the company be wound up. In the year before it collapsed, the company went through tough times with developers for their "smart" beer-making machines let go and just bar staff being retained to operate the pub.

Among those owed money by the firm include Techstart NI SME, which is a part-taxpayer funded equity scheme launched by Invest NI, which gave it nearly 200,000.

Also out of pocket to the tune of over 43,000 is Brewbot's former landlord, North Down Leisure, which is run by the children of Merchant Hotel magnate Bill Wolsey.

The Dublin-based public relations firm Beach Hut is also owed nearly 20,000.

Mr McClelland could not be reached for comment.Bangladeshi police escort suspects in the Holey Artisan terrorist plot during their trial in Dhaka, Dec. 3, 2018.

Updated at 1:45 p.m. ET on 2018-12-04

A policeman said he heard grenades explode after militants took over a Dhaka cafe in Bangladeshs deadliest terrorist attack, as testimony began Monday in the trial of eight men accused of being connected to the July 2016 siege.

Sub-Inspector Ripon Kumar Das, who was the first witness to take the stand before a special anti-terrorist court, was one of the first responders to reach the Holey Artisan Bakery, where militants took hostages and killed 20 of them  nine Italians, seven Japanese, and one Indian and three Bangladeshis.

After receiving a message on the wireless set, I reached the spot in 10 minutes. I saw the militants firing and throwing grenades while shouting Allahu Akbar, Das testified about the early moments of the July 1, 2016 attack, using the Arabic for God is Great.

He said two on-duty police officers were killed after he reached the cafe, adding that at least 30 other people were injured.

The militants carried out the attack to mar Bangladeshs solidarity, public safety and sovereignty, and to tarnish the state image overseas. They attempted to create panic among people, Das testified.

They took over 50 people hostages and killed 22 people, including two police officers, by stabbing, slaughtering and shooting in cold blood, he said.

The extremist group Islamic State claimed that five of its Bengali members carried out the attack, but Bangladeshi authorities blamed it on Neo-JMB, a faction of a home-grown militant group.

The trial began on Nov. 26, when the tribunal indicted eight suspected militants including two fugitives on charges of conspiring and aiding in a deadly terrorist act. The prosecution submitted names of 211 witnesses of the Holey Artisan attack.

Six defendants  Jahangir Hossain (alias Rajib Gandhi), Aslam Islam (alias Rashed alias Rash), Sohel Mahfuz, Raqibul Islam Regan, Hadisur Rahman Sagor and Mizanur Rahman (alias Boro Mizan)  were brought to court from Kashimpur prison. The other two defendants, Mamunur Rashid Ripon and Shariful Islam (alias Khalid), have absconded.

They could face the death penalty, if convicted, although none were in the cafe at the time of the attack.

Faruque Ahmed, a lawyer for two of the suspects, Aslam Islam and Raqibul Islam, cross examined Das.

My clients names were included in the charge-sheet as scapegoats, Ahmed told journalists.

Police, lawyers, journalists and other people crowded the courtroom to hear the testimony.

Abdus Salam, the father of defendant Aslam Islam, attended the trial and said his family had lost contact with his son.

I live in Naogaon. My son used to study in Rajshahi. We had no contact for one year before the Holey Artisan attack. I went to the police station to report it, but the police did not record my complaint, Salam said.

An earlier version reported incorrectly that the prosecution had submitted names of 111 witnesses.A burned car sits outside the office of property developer MCT Berhad in Subang, a town in Malaysias Selangor state, after rioting broke out amid a dispute over the relocation of an Indian temple, Nov. 27, 2018.

Conservative Muslim groups pressed Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamads government Monday to further protect privileges for the ethnic Malay majority after he renounced his pledge to ratify a U.N. treaty against racial discrimination.

On Nov. 23, Mahathir backpedaled on a campaign promise to support the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), amid a backlash from critics who expressed fears that it could undermine privileges enshrined in Malaysias constitution for Malays.



Mahathirs office, in a brief statement 10 days ago, confirmed that his government would abandon the U.N. convention and continue to uphold the constitution. It did not provide a reason for that decision.

After the Kuala Lumpur City government announced on Monday that it had given a green light for conservative groups to stage a demonstration against the U.N. convention on Dec. 8, rally organizers said it was not enough for Mahathir to make the announcement through a simple press release.

We want the government to make a firm statement through parliament  in the presence of all lawmakers, Aminuddin Yahaya, chairman of the Ummah Defenders Movement, a Muslim NGO, told BenarNews. Because as it stands, they can simply U-turn the decision.

Aminuddin was referring to Mahathirs speech before the United Nations General Assembly in September, in which he said that Malaysia would ratify all rights-related conventions left for it to adopt, including ICERD.

Mahathir made his recent reversal against the backdrop of Malaysias race-based politics, raising doubts about the ratification of other treaties.

The multi-ethnic nation has ratified just three of the nine core U.N. rights-related conventions: the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women; the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Last week, Mahathir told news website Free Malaysia Today that he remembered clearly what he said in his speech at the U.N. in New York, rejecting comments that his announcement about ICERD was an about-turn.

When I spoke in the U.N., I remember exactly, I said we will ratify all the conventions of the U.N. But I pointed out that we are a multiracial and multireligious country. We will have problems with that, he said. So now the problem that we predicted has happened, and we have to react to that.

Mahathir, 93, gave the interview a day after Malaysian police arrested 17 suspects after violence broke out at a Hindu temple in Subang Jaya township near Kuala Lumpur, in what authorities described as an escalation of a dispute over the relocation of the house of worship.

Seven people suffered injuries after a group of men attacked devotees and several vehicles were destroyed, police said.

Diplomats and analysts said that Mahathirs statement reneging on his vow to ratify the convention would impact the nations image on the global stage over its willingness to combat racism.

The nation must be consistent to become a global role model. Human rights commitments and compliance will be a game changer on the global stage, Denison Jayasooria, a member of the Foreign Affairs Ministrys Consultative Council on Foreign Policy, told the South China Morning Post.

The Pakatan Harapan government did promise reform but now its faced with a strong Malay-Muslim push towards a narrow understanding and approach, Denison said. It is imperative for Pakatan Harapan  especially Malay-Muslim lawmakers  to engage with the Malay grass roots on how compliance with human rights is consistent with Islam and good governance.

ICERD, which commits its members to the elimination of racial discrimination and the promotion of understanding among all races, was adopted and opened for signature by the United Nations General Assembly on Dec. 21, 1965 and entered into force on Jan. 4, 1969.

As of January this year, the convention has 88 signatories and 179 parties. Malaysia, Myanmar and Brunei are the three Southeast Asian nations that havent signed the convention.

Religion and race are often political soft spots in Malaysia, half of whose population of about 33 million people is made up of Malays.

UMMAH and other similar Malay-based NGOs argue that certain provision of the convention, which seeks to eliminate racial discrimination, goes against the provision of the Malaysian constitution that provides special positions and incentives for ethnic Malays and other indigenous races, including provisions to allow quotas in public institutions.

Those incentives are not available for the ethnic Chinese and Indians who make up 27 percent of Malaysias population.

Thanksgiving gathering

The Dec. 8 rally, initially planned by the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) to pressure the government to not ratify the U.N. convention, had been changed into a thanksgiving gathering after Mahathirs announcement, organizers said, emphasizing that more than 3,000 volunteers had registered to help maintain order.

The road between Kuala Lumpurs iconic colonial Sultan Abdul Samad Building and the historic Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square) will be cordoned-off from Friday to prepare for the event.

Despite reassurances given on the peaceful nature of the rally, its close timeline with the Subang Jaya Hindu temple riot raises alarm even among anti-ICERD supporters, said Teo Kok Seong, a principal research fellow at the Institute of Ethnic Studies at the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).



Teo, an ethnic Chinese who speaks fluent Malay and reads Arabic, told BenarNews that the situation was still tense after the riot at the temple last week.

I feel that the rally should not take place, he said. One provocative word can send the whole crowd wild.Maria Ressa, CEO of the news portal Rappler, shows documents after posting bail at the Pasig Regional Trial Court in metropolitan Manila, Dec. 3, 2018.

The head of Rappler, a popular online news portal that has criticized President Rodrigo Duterte's war on illegal drugs, posted bail on Monday for a tax evasion case, which she described as government harassment.

Maria Ressa, president and CEO of Rappler Holdings Corporation, posted bail of up 60,000 pesos (U.S. $1,154) after a local court issued an arrest warrant against her last week.

The warrant against Ressa, a veteran journalist who formerly worked for Cable News Network (CNN), came after the government accused Rappler of violating the countrys tax code when the company allegedly misrepresented its tax returns when it issued Philippine Depository Receipts (PDR) for some of its former U.S.-based investors.

The government had moved earlier to shut down the website, saying it violated a constitutional provision that all media entities based in the country should be fully owned by Filipinos. Rapplers American investors subsequently let go of their PDRs.

The case would have ended there, but the government said she failed to properly pay taxes on the sale or transfer of the PDRs.

I surrendered to the court this morning, went through the process of what a criminal would go through, and filed bail without surrendering my right to question the Pasig court's jurisdiction over this tax case. This is a clear case of harassment, said Ressa, who confirmed there was an arrest warrant released on the basis of what she described as politically-motivated charges.

I think it is a way of sending a signal that we have to be careful. That's part of what they want to do, she told reporters. But the more they do things like this, these ridiculous things, the more we're going to continue to do investigative reporting.

Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo rejected Ressas statement, saying the Rappler chief executive was entitled to the presumption of innocence and could avail of legal remedies.

How can they be prosecuted? Its a question of tax evasion, you violate tax laws then you will be prosecuted, Panelo told reporters.

If you have a justifiable reason for so doing or have  evidence to show that its not true, then you will be acquitted, he said.

We have repeatedly said that we have never and well never interfere with the function of the judiciary. If the judiciary finds probable cause for an information filed, then we have to respect the law on the matter, Panelo said.

Thousands of students from various Philippine universities and colleges join a protest in northern Baguio city to denounce the state's alleged suppression of press freedom and accusing the government of harassment targeting online news portal Rappler, Feb. 23, 2018. [Karl Romano/BenarNews]

Chilling message

Brad Adams, Asia director of New York-based Human Rights Watch, said the Duterte governments move had "sent a chilling message to journalists and human-rights activists that they will be targeted for exposing his murderous campaign.

Friends of the Philippines should make it clear to the president that the case against Ressa and Rappler should be dropped or there will be serious diplomatic consequences, Adams said.

The World Editors Forum also condemned Ressas arrest warrant, saying it was an attempt to intimidate journalists in the Southeast Asian country.

She vows to #holdtheline. Editors around the world are with her on this, the group said on Twitter.

The Brussels-based International Federation of Journalists issued a similar statement defending Ressa, citing the ongoing crackdown by the Duterte administration against critical voices as a violation of the Filipinos constitutionally-guaranteed right to a free press.

Duterte has also banned Rappler reporters from covering official presidential functions, arguing that they were not real journalists.

The governments moves sparked widespread protests, with media groups saying it was a vendetta by Duterte for Rapplers stories about his drug war that rights groups say has killed thousands. The president once accused Rappler of being controlled by the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency without giving any proof.

The owner of Rapplers PDRs  the U.S.-based Omidyar Network and North Base Media  later divested their shares and transferred them to Rappler employees.

According to police, almost 5,000 suspects have been killed in counter-narcotics operations between June 2016, when Duterte took office, and December 2017. But international and local rights groups have estimated a higher figure of about 12,000 deaths.Eleven undergraduate and graduate students were honored Nov. 26 for their presentations about their education abroad experiences at the fifth annual Embracing Global Engagement symposium in October. Sponsored by the Bowling Green State University Center for Undergraduate Research and Scholarship (CURS), the symposium provides a venue for students to share what they learned, through oral, poster and video presentations.

Joined for the occasion by their faculty mentors and family members, the winners received a handmade glass award by former BGSU art faculty Austin Littenberg, depicting a blue globe embraced by BGSU orange. The symposium participants did encircle the globe, having studied in Europe, Asia and Africa. Dr. Cordula Mora, CURS director, noted that this years symposium was the first to include graduate and international students, adding additional perspectives to the event.

They may not have thought about it before, but the 11 students honored have benefited not only themselves through their activities but the University community as well, Interim Provost John Fischer told them at the ceremony.

Fischer said, Your role on campus is incredibly important, as we welcome international students here and encourage other students to go abroad. The whole process of internationalizing the campus is important if we are to understand our universitys role in the world.

Fischer referred to BGSUs maxim to belong, stand out, go far, telling the students that going far is just the first step. Then they must come back and help change us. They can have a large impact on students who may never have left the country or even Ohio, he said, especially in raising awareness about cultural assumptions and our own self-awareness.

That theme was echoed in undergraduate poster presentation winners Kayla DeMuth and Justin Newcombs project Intercultural Wonderment. Under the mentorship of Dr. Laura Landry-Meyer, an associate professor of family and consumer sciences, as part of their Cultural Explorations class traveling across Italy, DeMuth and Newcomb conducted a qualitative analysis of student reflections on study abroad experiences in the country. Landry-Meyer said they did find intercultural wonderment, or the process of becoming comfortable with being uncomfortable  a key gain from either going abroad or living in a different environment in ones own country. DeMuth and Newcomb both graduated in May and are employed as certified family life educators.

In the graduate division of the poster presentations, the team of Alex Bakhaus, Ivy Keen, Kiara Vance and Jody Kunk-Czaplicki won the glass award for their analysis of Student Democracy in Scottish and English Higher Education, which took them on a study tour of eight universities and several organizations to observe how student affairs functions there. Their mentor was Dr. Ellen Broido, a professor of higher education and student affairs.

In oral presentations, the undergraduate winners were Olivia Henderson and Bryant Kuhlman, who shared their educational experiences in Thailand. Their mentor, Dr. Gabriel Matney, professor of teaching and learning, praised them for their insightful efforts to engage students in a culture theyve never met, and understand the role and impact of Buddhism in Thailands philosophy of education and its classrooms.

Ellen Broido with students (left to right) Ivy Keen, Jody Kunk-Czaplicki, Alex Bakhaus and Kiara Vance

Hoskins Global Scholar Ashley Mitchell, a mentee of Akiko Kawano Jones, director of the Asian Studies Program, also won for sharing her study Cities, Shrines and Their Coexistence in Japan. Mitchell spent a full year in Japan, during which she traveled the country visiting and learning about the meaning of the many shrines and their role in the religious and cultural life of the nation and its people.

The graduate winner of the oral presentations division was Amelia Amedela Amemate, an American culture studies

major from Ghana, for her work on Challenging Toxic Gender Norms in Hostile Spaces: Observations from Ghanaian Culture. Her mentor, Dr. Timothy Messer-Kruse, professor of ethnic studies, praised her for her integration of activism and scholarship and her courage in standing up for her beliefs. Amemate has challenged the patriarchal restrictions upon women of her home country and said she appreciated being in the United States, which has come farther in those terms than have some other places.

The Nature of Samurai was the winning video presentation, by undergraduate Laura Eitel, an Asian studies major who also worked with Kawano Jones. Her video explored the impact of the philosophy and social rules of the samurai and their impact on the Japanese way of life. As part of her study abroad, Eitel also participated in BGSUs Peace Studies 10-day stay in Hiroshima.- The decision was pending due to Aravinds injuries

- Other three riders include Michael Metge, Adrien Metge and Lorenzo Santalino

- Dakar 2019 will take place in Peru from 6 to 17 January

Sherco TVS Factory Rally Team announced that Arvind KP has been finalised as its fourth rider to compete in the Dakar 2019 rally raid. He will be joining the team of Michael Metge and Adrien Metge from France and Lorenzo Santalino from Spain, to battle it out in the worlds most treacherous rally event.

As we had reported earlier, TVS Sherco had already selected Michael, Adrien and Lorenzo as its first three riders based on their performances in the Baja Aragon, PanAfrica Rally and the Rally of Morocco. However, the decision on the fourth Indian rider was pending as TVS couldnt confirm Aravind owing to his injuries sustained in PanAfrica rally. The announcement has been finally made after Aravind cleared his fitness test. This is the third time Aravind will be participating in the iconic rally event. The riders will be competing astride the RTR 450 rally motorcycle configured specially for Dakar.

Set to take place from 6 January to 17 January 2019, this will be the 41st edition of Dakar Rally. Unlike every year, only one country  Peru will be hosting the grand rally event. The riders will start from Lima, will be crossing through tough terrains of Pisco, San Juan De Marcona and Arequipa to reach the finishing point in Moquegua. The rally course spans across 5000km along the borders of Peru.For Immediate Release, December 3, 2018 Contacts: Aaron Klemz, Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy, aklemz@mncenter.org , (763) 788-0282

Pete Marshall, Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness, pete@friends-bwca.org , (612) 332-9630

Paula Maccabee, WaterLegacy, paula@waterlegacy.org , (651) 775-7128

Marc Fink, Center for Biological Diversity, (218) 464-0539, mfink@biologicaldiversity.org Appeals Challenge Minnesota's PolyMet Copper Mine Permits, Mining Rules ST. PAUL, Minn. Conservation and clean-water groups today appealed state permits issued for the PolyMet open-pit copper mine in northern Minnesota and filed a separate appeal challenging the states mining rules. The groups appeal, filed in the Minnesota Court of Appeals, challenges permits issued by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources allowing PolyMet to operate the 528-acre copper-nickel mine and appropriate 6 billion gallons of water per year. In addition to the permit appeals, a separate filing asks the same court to overturn Minnesotas non-ferrous mining rules, saying they are too vague to be adequately enforced by courts and regulatory agencies. The courts must hold the DNR accountable to the law or PolyMets permits will be a blank check, paid for by the clean water, health, and pocketbooks of Minnesotans, said Kathryn Hoffman, chief executive officer of the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy. The department ignored tens of thousands of Minnesotans who asked it to protect people and the environment from PolyMets proposed mine, and instead issued permission slips. The permits for PolyMets proposed mine do not protect people downstream from pollution the mine would create. The department arbitrarily rejected less risky alternatives for managing mine waste. The permits allow PolyMet to threaten water downstream for hundreds of years after mining ends, fail to address concerns of engineers who fear the mines proposed waste dam is dangerous and fails to protect Minnesota taxpayers from being stuck with up to $1 billion in cleanup costs. Taxpayers fund Minnesota DNR believing the agency will responsibly manage our natural resources, said Chris Knopf, executive director of Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness. With PolyMet, they put mining interests first and gave judicial review, popular opinion, and environmental considerations the back seat. The state permits also fail to define how long PolyMet will be allowed to mine or describe PolyMets exact mining and closure plans. Minnesota rules require final design plans to be submitted before permits are issued, but the state agencys permits allow PolyMet to develop the open-pit mine and submit plans for closure later. The permits do not establish any standards for the approval of these future plans, and the public will not be able to comment on them. There is a myth in Minnesota that we have tough regulators. Just the opposite, said Paula Maccabee, advocacy director and counsel for WaterLegacy. The DNR has granted PolyMet a permit to mine admitting that its design and operational details are not firmly in place. At the very least, with Minnesotas first proposed sulfide mine, we should demand that no permits be issued unless and until PolyMet shows us  and an unbiased administrative judge  that they know what theyre doing. The appeals also challenge the state agencys decision to deny requests for a contested case hearing. The hearing would allow the case to be reviewed by a neutral administrative law judge, which is common for large and complex projects. The groups argue that the department was required to grant a contested case hearing before it issued the permits. With over 1,300 signatures and a majority of its elected officials, Duluthians openly requested a contested case hearing on this permit, said JT Haines, an attorney and organizer with Duluth for Clean Water. That hearing should have been ordered. The process fails all the time with sulfide mining, and we don't want to be the next example of communities harmed by downstream pollution. Its reckless for the state to allow an open-pit copper mine at the precious headwaters of Lake Superior, said Marc Fink, a Duluth attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity. State officials are abdicating their responsibility to protect public health and the environment. Theyre moving forward with unproven, incomplete mine plans even though they know PolyMet would destroy thousands of acres of wetlands and require water treatment for generations to come. Todays appeals are in addition to separate requests the groups made to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. The groups have asked those agencies to suspend all permits for PolyMet until the Minnesota Court of Appeals rules on whether the department should prepare an environmental impact statement for larger versions of the proposed mine that PolyMet has described to their investors. The groups appealing the permits are the Center for Biological Diversity, Duluth for Clean Water, Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness, Friends of the Cloquet Valley State Forest, Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy, Save Our Sky Blue Waters and WaterLegacy. They are represented by attorneys from Maslon LLP, Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy and WaterLegacy. VIDEO AVAILABLE: High resolution video of the PolyMet mine and plant sites are available for use with proper credit.Yoga has a relaxing effect on the body, making it far more suitable for those undergoing powerful medication and radiation therapy.

Lung cancer is the most common type of cancer world-wide with over 2,093,000 cases reported in 2018. This accounts for 12.3% of all diagnosed cases of cancer during the same period internationally. Statistically speaking, it is considerably more likely to afflict men than women. However, with changes in womens lifestyle, coupled with the deteriorating air quality in many metropolitan areas, its only a matter of time before the gender gap reduces. Hence lung cancer is a growing concern for both genders.

There are four main types of lung cancers, of which the two most common are Adenocarcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma which account for 40% and 30% of all cases respectively. While lung cancer is treatable to a much greater degree than in even the recent past, detecting the ailment in its early stages is vital to achieving a positive outcome. Symptoms of the disease include, but are not limited to, persistent coughing for more than two weeks, aches in the arms, shoulder, neck and back, shortness of breath, weight loss, blood in the sputum, and general lethargy. The fight against cancer has led allopathic researchers to look to a rather unexpected form of alternative healthcare, one that is thousands of years old and originated right here in India; called yoga.

This begs the question, what possible value could an ancient therapy like yoga add to lung cancer treatment that the current system lacks? The answer, rather surprising; is a lot, at least according to a test conducted by the U.S. National Institutes of Health on 26 patients (treated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy) and caregivers. The study observed that those subjects who regularly practiced yoga i.e. 15 sessions of yoga lasting one hour each, especially exercises which stretched the chest area and emphasised on taking deep breaths, performed better in a walking and endurance test than those subjects in the control group i.e. those who did not practice yoga. Many of the participants were so satisfied with their results that they continued to practice yoga upon the completion of the experiment and 96% rated the programme as very useful.

Another study conducted in 2017 by University of Texas analysed the effect of Yoga therapy on 32 patients with lung cancer. The study included administering physical, breathing and stretching exercises along with meditation. The findings revealed that yoga therapy not only improved the physical functioning of the patients but also improved their mental health.

Yoga has a relaxing effect on the body, making it far more suitable for those undergoing powerful medication and radiation therapy. In the fight against cancer every tool in our arsenal is a blessing, and that is precisely what yoga is. It has absolutely no negative side effects and contributes immensely to the patients quality of life; furthermore, it can be highly customised to accommodate each patients unique personal requirements. When coupled with light exercise such as brisk walking, yoga is without a doubt an excellent, effective, and quite possibly the ultimate form of therapeutic healing. As a non-medicinal therapy, Yoga offers various benefits to lung cancer patients; it improves the mental, physical and spiritual well-being of the patients going through a tough battle against lung cancer.

Gulshan Kapadia, Yoga Therapist, Saifee HospitalNACO has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 16 key Ministries to augment a comprehensive AIDS response.

Government is not only fully funding the HIV/AIDS programme but also increasing the resource envelope in accordance with the programme needs. This was stated by Anupriya Patel, Minister of State (Health & Family Welfare) at a function to mark World AIDS Day, 2018 organised by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, recently in New Delhi. At the function, Anupriya Patel also released the Operational Guidelines on HIV/TB Intervention in Prisons and NACO Calendar for 2019.

Sanjeeva Kumar, AS & DG (NACO), Alok Saxena, JS (NACO), Dr. Billali Camara, Country Coordinator, UNAIDS and Dr. Benk Henkedam, WHO Country Representative to India also graced the occasion.

Speaking at the event, Anupriya Patel informed that the HIV/AIDS Programme has focused on more than one million people from high risk group and kept the infection of HIV in control through comprehensive and intense targeted interventions services. The Programme has also given attention to eliminating mother to child transmission of HIV and Syphilis by 2020. Under the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan complete ante-natal check up facility is provided to all pregnant women across the country, including HIV testing. In 2017-18 more than 2 Crore HIV testing among pregnant women was undertaken, she added.

Reiterating the commitment to end the epidemic by 2030, Anupriya Patel stated that the National programme has laid a great emphasis on counseling and testing among general clients and NACO has initiated community based screening of HIV to reach first 90 out of the target 90:90:90 by 2020. She further said that with the launch of Test and Treat in 2017, every PLHIV is eligible to be put on ART as soon as he/she is detected HIV positive irrespective of the CD4 count and today 70% of PLHIV who know their HIV status are on ART. The Viral Load testing for all PLHIV who are on ART has been launched. More than 12 Lakh PLHIV have already benefitted from it. Viral load testing is of immense importance to monitor the effectiveness of treatment of patients taking lifelong Antiretroviral therapy, she mentioned.

The Minister further said that in a historic move, the HIV/AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017 was unanimously passed by the Government and it has also come into force. This Act provides an enabling environment to HIV affected and infected population where they get a seamless access to services and a comprehensive grievance redressal mechanism with ombudsman at the Centre and Complaints Officer at establishments, she added.

Stressing on the need for multi-faceted and multi-sectoral response, Anupriya Patel stated that NACO has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 16 key Ministries to augment a comprehensive AIDS response. In addition to this NACO has signed MoUs with more than 250 industries of public and private sectors to mobilize their support.

Anupriya Patel also paid tributes to all the lives lost to HIV/AIDS not just in India but globally. The event concluded on the note of renewed commitment to the cause of HIV by the government and each and every partner who have contributed to the successful halting of the HIV epidemic in the country.The company's wholly-owned subsidiary has entered into a stock purchase agreement to acquire 534,194 shares of common stock of biotechnology firm Inipharm Inc USA, for a cash consideration of USD 534.20 per share, Jubilant Life Sciences said in a filing to BSE.

Drug firm Jubilant Life Sciences has said that its subsidiary Drug Discovery and Development Solutions Ltd Singapore has entered into an agreement to acquire 10 per cent stake in Inipharm Inc USA for around USD 28.5 million (over Rs 199 crore).

The company's wholly-owned subsidiary has entered into a stock purchase agreement to acquire 534,194 shares of common stock of biotechnology firm Inipharm Inc USA, for a cash consideration of USD 534.20 per share, Jubilant Life Sciences said in a filing to BSE.

The indicative time period for completion of the acquisition is three months, it added.The Conference will lay emphasis on the emerging trends in fetal imaging, managing high risk pregnancies, new diagnostic screening techniques for genetic disorders, improving preterm outcomes and early interventions in critical settings.

Apollo Hospitals, Apollo Cradle and Apollo Fertility in partnership with National Neonatology Foundation (NNF), Paediatric Academy of Telangana State (PATS) and Obstetrics & Gynaecological Society of Hyderabad (OGSH) will host National Cradle Conference 2018 a two-day conference on December 08 and 09 at Park Hyatt, Hyderabad. The Conference will focus on advances in field of Fertility, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Paediatrics and Neonatology with eminent faculties from across India and other countries showcasing the latest trends. This is an effort to bring multi-disciplinary focus on these specialties in an endeavour to make all aware about the team effort and multi-disciplinary approach required to ensure that optimal clinical outcomes for both mother and child are achieved. Dr Prathap C. Reddy, Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group will inaugurate the event with over 600+ delegates are expected to attend across the country.

The Conference will lay emphasis on the emerging trends in fetal imaging, managing high risk pregnancies, new diagnostic screening techniques for genetic disorders, improving preterm outcomes and early interventions in critical settings along with latest technological advancements in NICU, optimizing better outcomes in IVF and medico-legal aspects. This is an effort to bring multi-disciplinary focus on these specialties in an endeavour to make all aware about the team effort and multi-disciplinary approach required to ensure that optimal clinical outcomes for both mother and child are achieved.

The distinguished faculty for the Conference comprises of internationally renowned faculties from USA, UK, Canada, Australia like Dr. Seang Lin Tan, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Founding Medical Director at Originelle Fertility Clinic & Womens Health Centre, Canada. One of the world's outstanding neuroscientists Dr. Wise Young, Founding Director, W. M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, New Jersey, USA and a distinguished professor. Prof. Sailesh Kumar, Head of the Mothers, Babies and Women Health research and head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology department at University of Queensland, Australia. Dr. Sandeep Sharma Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Yorkshire Hospitals, UK. He has a special interest in management of menopause and prevention of osteoporosis. Dr. Hima Bindu Avatapalle, Consultant Paediatric Endocrinologist in Leeds Teaching Hospitals, UK with a special interest in childhood hypoglycaemia, gender dysphoria and transition endocrinology.Sonali Bendre Opts For An All-black Look As She Returns To India Bollywood Wardrobe Devika Tripathi

Sonali Bendre returns to India after Cancer Treatment, spotted at Mumbai airport; Watch | FilmiBeat

Sonali Bendre returned to India with her husband Goldie Behl. The prolific actress had earlier gone to the USA for the cancer treatment. We were happy to see her back and she happily posed for the shutterbugs and gave thumbs up. Well, Sonali you are certainly strong and inspiring. We absolutely liked her fashion statement.

The actress wore an all-black outfit that consisted of a long kurta and matching pants. Sonali's fashion was about comfort and she gave us one of the best and easy-to-ace airport looks. Sonali also wore a long jacket that we thought was a wonderful addition and a warm goal for this winter. It was a smart full-sleeved jacket that went well with her ensemble.

She paired her attire with black-hued flat sandals, which perfectly complemented her outfit. Her makeup was light and highlighted by a pink lip shade. So, how did you find Sonali's airport outfit? Feel free to share opinions in the comment section.Reciba en su email: noticias de ultima hora, analisis tecnicos o el cierre de mercado

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A 30-year-old man from Virden was arrested on Saturday as part of an ongoing investigation. Brandon police assisted Natural Resources in investigating a complaint of the man poaching a deer late last month. However, the pursuit was abandoned as it entered city limits and became to dangerous for the public.

The suspect was seen by police again on Saturday morning, and arrested without incident in the parking lot of a business on 18th Street. Police say a loaded hunting rifle with ammunition and a partial deer carcass was found inside the vehicle.

The man was charged with dangerous driving, flight from police; possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized, unauthorized possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle and theft.

He was released from custody and will appear in court in January.

Natural Resource officers will also be following up with their own investigation working with Brandon police

 The Brandon Sun

A 30-year-old man from Virden was arrested on Saturday as part of an ongoing investigation.

Brandon police assisted Natural Resources in investigating a complaint of the man poaching a deer late last month. However, the pursuit was abandoned as it entered city limits and became to dangerous for the public.

The suspect was seen by police again on Saturday morning, and arrested without incident in the parking lot of a business on 18th Street. Police say a loaded hunting rifle with ammunition and a partial deer carcass was found inside the vehicle.

The man was charged with dangerous driving, flight from police; possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized, unauthorized possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle and theft.

He was released from custody and will appear in court in January. Natural Resource officers will also be following up with their own investigation working with Brandon police.

 The Brandon SunMeet the superfoods of the future

Tomorrows superfoods might be more than a fad  they hold promise for feeding a world whose favorite crops could be threatened by climate change.

If you think about what we eat currently, much of it relies on just a few crops: wheat, rice or corn, says Soo Ahn, assistant professor of food science at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. As climate change begins to affect what we can grow and where, those crops may shift or become less available, so people are looking at alternatives.

Ahn points to these foods as potential superfoods of the future:

Teff

Along with its high iron and protein content, this tiny grain from Ethiopia is gluten free and has more calcium and vitamin C than other grains.

Fonio

Another African grain, fonio (FON-yo) has been cultivated for more than 5,000 years.

Boasting a nutty flavor and amino acids not found in wheat, rice or corn it could be the next quinoa, Ahn says. And as Senegalese chef and fonio proponent Pierre Thiam describes in his TED talk about the grain, its easier to say than quinoa.

Breadfruit

Edible in three different stages  as immature green fruit, as a potato-like mature fruit, or when its fully ripe, breadfruit can be made into a gluten-free flour. In areas with hunger, breadfruit could be a good solution as its very nutritious, Ahn says. Stateside, you might start to see it in snack foods such as chips, where it can gain acceptance and name recognition.

Insects

Maybe youd only eat bugs on a dare, but nutrient-packed insects and their larvae are slowly making inroads on restaurant menus. It might start out of curiosity, Ahn says. It will probably take a long time before bugs are as popular as other superfoods.

Ahn also predicts that American shoppers will get more familiar with several exotic fruits in years to come. Think you know them? Find out with our quiz:EDMONTON - Premier Rachel Notley is ordering a mandatory cut to oil production to deal with a price crisis she says threatens to gut Alberta's bedrock industry.

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Alberta Premier Rachel Notley speaks during an announcement of a mandatory cut in oil production to deal with a price crisis that is costing Canada an estimated $80 million a day, in Edmonton on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson

EDMONTON - Premier Rachel Notley is ordering a mandatory cut to oil production to deal with a price crisis she says threatens to gut Alberta's bedrock industry.

Notley announced the province will impose across-the-board cuts amounting to 8.7 per cent of output to reduce a growing glut of oil that is forcing Alberta oil to sell at steep discounts compared with the North American benchmark.

"In the last few weeks, this price gap has reached historic highs," Notley said Sunday in a speech timed to run live on supper-hour newscasts in Alberta.

Roughly speaking, Notley said, while the rest of the world sells its oil at about $50 per barrel, Alberta fetches only $10.

"We are essentially giving our oil away for free."

Fire-sale prices have led to concerns the oilpatch will have to find savings elsewhere in the coming weeks and months by slashing capital spending or jobs.

Notley said the 8.7 per cent reduction begins in January, with the expectation that figure will gradually decrease until the cuts are scheduled to end on Dec. 31, 2019.

"This is a short term measure," she said.

Output of raw crude oil and bitumen will be reduced initially by 325,000 barrels per day. As the excess storage clears, the reduction is expected to drop to 95,000 barrels a day.

There will be a 10,000-barrel-per-day exemption to ensure small producers are not hurt disproportionately. The province estimates 25 producers will have to impose cuts.

About 35 million barrels of oil are in storage  about twice the normal levels.

The announcement is expected to narrow the differential by at least $4 per barrel and add an estimated $1.1 billion to government revenues in 2019-2020.

The move is not unprecedented  in 1980, Tory premier Peter Lougheed forced oil production cuts to protest the federal Liberals' national energy program.

The current glut is due in part to pipeline bottlenecks.

The Trans-Mountain line to the B.C. coast is now in legal limbo despite being approved two years ago.

The Enbridge Line 3 project, shipping more oil from Alberta to the U.S. Midwest is expected to come online late next year.

The premier has already said the province will buy as many as 80 locomotives and 7,000 rail tankers  expected to cost hundreds of millions of dollars  to move the province's excess oil to markets, with the first shipments expected in late 2019.

The Opposition United Conservatives and the centrist Alberta Party had already called for the production cut. Notley thanked them both in her speech.

Opposition United Conservative Leader Jason Kenney said Notley made the right decision.

But he said Notley's government has played a role in creating the problem by not pushing back as the federal government cancelled the Northern Gateway pipeline to B.C. and introduced legislation that industry leaders say will make it more difficult to get oil megaprojects approved.

"Many of these policies (were) supported either by acquiescence or actively by the NDP government," said Kenney. "That's one of the reasons why in the past week we've been giving away our oil."

Alberta Party Leader Stephen Mandel said the government was warned in the spring that this crisis was coming, and should have acted sooner.

"They dragged their feet. They had an opportunity early to do something and they didn't," said Mandel.

"It's frustrating to me to see so many people losing their jobs as a result of this incompetence."

Industry feelings prior to the announcement had been mixed.

Cenovus Energy proposed the idea of a production cut last month. However, Imperial and Husky said Friday they remain opposed to involuntary production cuts.FREDERICTON - People who fell for a website hyping a too-good-to-be-true investment opportunity for New Brunswick's coastline got lucky: The scam wasn't intended to trap potential investors, but to teach them.

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This article was published 3/12/2018 (1088 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A woman uses her computer keyboard to type while surfing the internet in North Vancouver, B.C., on Wednesday, December, 19, 2012. New Brunswick's Financial and Consumer Services Commission decided that a good way to educate people about fake investment schemes was to launch their own fake investment scheme. The commission created TydeCoyn.ca, a fake website hyping a too-good-to-be-true investment opportunity in New Brunswick???s coastline. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jonathan Hayward

FREDERICTON - People who fell for a website hyping a too-good-to-be-true investment opportunity for New Brunswick's coastline got lucky: The scam wasn't intended to trap potential investors, but to teach them.

The site was created by New Brunswick's Financial and Consumer Services Commission, who decided that a good way to educate people about real investment scams was to launch their own fake investment scheme.

The commission created TydeCoyn.ca, a website boasting a chance to invest in "Atlantic Canada's first cryptocurrency token that marries tourism promotion and environmental activism."

Erin King, FCNB's senior education and website officer, says the website was launched during Investor Education Month in October.

"Cryptocurrencies, crypto assets and digital assets are new and are emerging technologies. There is legitimate Initial Coin Offering (ICO) fundraising (similar to crowdfunding) out there but there are also fraudsters and even the legitimate offerings have a high degree of risk. Ultimately we believe the best defence is knowledge," she said.

She said it's very easy for fraudsters to build very attractive websites intended to lure investors.

King said their website was created the same way to show potential investors all the "red flags" they should watch for to avoid scams, such as vague wording, false testimonials and a countdown clock.

"Fraudsters always like to instill in victims a sense of urgency or panic. They say it is a limited time investment offer. The goal is always to get the victims to act quickly without thinking or involving other people."

Anyone clicking on links on the website to invest or find more information, are automatically redirected to FCNB's education page to point out all the red flags.

"We had more than 4,500 people visit TydeCoyn.ca since October, and by the end of November 222 people had clicked through from the TydeCoyn site to read our education pages. We consider those 222 potential victims," King said.

She said it's unknown if anyone in New Brunswick has been scammed in an Initial Coin Offering (ICO) fundraising scheme involving cryptocurrencies, but only about five per cent of fraud victims ever report it because they get embarrassed that they've been duped.

FCNB got the idea for the fake ICO from a campaign launched by Canadian Securities Administrators four years ago.

King said the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission also ran a similar education program this summer.

"Unlike Initial Public Offerings, most ICOs are without any formal disclosure requirements and it's often difficult to find out who is behind the ICO and how the money raised will be spent. These types of investments are risky in the first place, but then you have these fraudsters trying to capitalize on all these interesting crypto assets," she said.

"Even with the legitimate ones there's a high degree of risk with them and a lot of them do fail."LONGUEUIL, Que. - Canadian astronaut David Saint-Jacques boarded the International Space Station Monday afternoon, declaring himself "astounded" by the journey and excited for the discoveries ahead of him.

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This article was published 3/12/2018 (1089 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The Russian rocket carries U.S. astronaut Anne McClain, Russian cosmonaut Oleg KononenkoAe and CSA astronaut David Saint Jacques. (AP Photo/Dmitri Lovetsky)

LONGUEUIL, Que. - Canadian astronaut David Saint-Jacques boarded the International Space Station Monday afternoon, declaring himself "astounded" by the journey and excited for the discoveries ahead of him.

After the hatch opened at 2:37 p.m. Eastern, Saint-Jacques and his two crewmates floated in from the docked Soyuz capsule, embracing the astronauts who have been at the space station since June.

"I am completely astounded by everything I have seen," Saint-Jacques said during a brief conversation with family members on the ground at the Baikonur Cosmodrome launch site in Kazakhstan.

Speaking in French, he described his first sunrise seen from space as "breathtaking." He said "it's just the beginning" of the discoveries ahead of him.

Canadian Space Agency president Sylvain Laporte told the crew members there was "a lot of relief" when the astronauts entered the space station about two hours after docking.

"Although we knew that you were safe and sound, there was nothing like seeing you come through the hatch," Laporte said.

Gov. Gen. Julie Payette, herself a former astronaut, was also among those watching the launch in Kazakhstan. She offered Saint-Jacques a "Bravo, bravo, bravo" and told the space station crew they were an inspiration for humanity.

"The teamwork that you demonstrate today is exactly what we should replicate on Earth more often," she said. "As the African proverb says, if we choose to go alone, we might go fast, but if we go together we go farther."

The launch of the Soyuz MS-11 spacecraft carrying Saint-Jacques, Anne McClain of NASA and Oleg Kononenko of the Russian space agency, Roscosmos, appeared to go exactly as planned, lifting off at precisely 6:31 a.m. Eastern.

"We have liftoff," a NASA television commentator said as the rocket roared into the sky under 930 pounds of thrust and at a speed of 1,770 kilometres per hour. "Everything looking good, vehicle is stable  good first stage performance."

The crew reported that all went well in the critical initial minutes after liftoff.

Back on Canadian soil, a crowd monitored the launch from the Canadian Space Agency in Longueuil, Que., as the rocket began its trip to the space station.

Innovation Minister Navdeep Bains praised the successful takeoff and said the mission offers an exciting opportunity for scientific research and developments that could have broad applications, in such things as robotics and aging.

"Space represents a lot of opportunities for a lot of Canadians," he said at the agency office. "It really is inspirational what David represents...today is an incredible day in space."

Astronaut Jenni Sidey-Gibbons echoed the message, saying Saint-Jacques was a special role model for her and other young people who may be considering a future in space.

"That was particularly important for me when I was growing up and I certainly wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for Canada's early space program and, kind of, the heroes that pushed that forward," she said. "It's incredible."

It was the first manned Russian launch since a Soyuz rocket carrying NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos' Alexei Ovchinin failed two minutes into its flight on Oct. 11. They managed to emerge safely despite a harrowing descent back to Earth.

A Russian investigation attributed the failure to a sensor that was damaged during the rocket's final assembly.

On Monday, NASA announced Hague and Ovchinin will now launch to the space station on Feb. 28, along with NASA astronaut Christina Hammock Koch.

Saint-Jacques, 48, has spent years training for the six-month mission, which was originally scheduled for Dec. 20 but was moved up after the aborted Soyuz launch.

Aboard the station, he will conduct a number of science experiments, with some focusing on the physical effects of the weak gravity astronauts experience in orbit.

Former astronaut Robert Thirsk said the schedule will be especially busy for the trio.

"Every five-minute increment of our life is scheduled, and that will be the same for David also," he said at the space agency office. "The challenge for him will be to pace himself to accomplish the work that's expected of him."

The arrival of the three astronauts restores the space stations crew to six as they join Serena Aunon-Chancellor of NASA, Alexander Gerst of the European Space Agency and Sergey Prokopyev of Roscosmos, who are scheduled to remain aboard until Dec. 20.

The last Canadian astronaut to visit the space station was Chris Hadfield, who was on a five-month mission that ended in May 2013.

 With files from The Associated PressST. JOHN'S, N.L. - Patients across the country may have missed seeing timely medical results because of a software issue involving an electronic medical record program.

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This article was published 3/12/2018 (1088 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

John Haggie, Newfoundland and Labrador Minister of Health and Community Services responds to a reporter's questions at a press conference during the Conferences of Provincial-Territorial Ministers of Health in Winnipeg on June 28, 2018. Patients across the country may have missed seeing timely medical results because of a software issue involving an electronic medical record program. The Newfoundland and Labrador government says medical test results for 615 patients between November 2017 and last month may have been delayed from reaching health care providers, and therefore their patients. Telus Health has identified the same software issue affecting other provinces but Health Minister John Haggie said Newfoundland and Labrador has the widest pool of affected patients. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - Patients across the country may have missed seeing timely medical results because of a software issue involving an electronic medical record program.

Most of the patients were in Newfoundland and Labrador, where medical test results for 615 patients between November 2017 and last month were delivered late to health care providers, who may have been delayed in bringing the results to patients.

The province uses Telus Health's Med Access software, which is also used in Nova Scotia, British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan.

In a statement, Ohad Arazi of Telus Health said the error affected a total of 876 patients across the six provinces.

Health Minister John Haggie said Newfoundland and Labrador has the widest pool of affected patients, accounting for almost three-quarters of the total, because the province's healthcare system has integrated the program more extensively.

Arazi said Telus Health has contacted "all applicable physicians" to communicate with their patients about the error, which was related to software coding.

"During a software update of our Med Access Electronic Medical Record (EMR) solution, we became aware of a coding issue that prevented some physicians from viewing select clinical reports," Arazi wrote.

"We apologize for this situation and will work diligently to prevent this unique workflow issue from recurring."

The issue did not impact the accuracy or privacy of the results, Arazi said.

A case-by-case investigation has begun to make sure all affected patients in Newfoundland and Labrador are accounted for, but so far Haggie said his department has not heard of any direct patient harm arising from the issue.

"I'm sorry it happened and I think it's not an acceptable situation," Haggie said in a news conference on Monday.

"The important thing from our point of view is to identify if there's been any harm and try and remediate that."

Haggie said many of the cases likely involve blood work, diagnostic imaging or medical consultations but critical results were not affected because the physician would be contacted by phone about urgent findings.

It's still unclear how many patients actually missed getting timely information, Haggie said.

The records would still have been available on paper or online through the province's own medical records viewing service, but Haggie said communication gaps could have arisen if a physician primarily used the electronic medical record program to keep track of files.

"It was simply that a physician who is used to using the EMR may have simply focused on that as the source of their information," Haggie said.

Notices have been sent by mail or courier to the patients affected and Haggie encouraged people to follow up with their own doctors.

Haggie said the province is now receiving a daily report from Telus Health to cross-reference with reports from the Newfoundland and Labrador Centre for Health Information to prevent future issues.LONGUEUIL, Que. - As David Saint-Jacques blasted off into space Monday, retired astronaut Robert Thirsk clinically explained the process to a packed crowd of Canadian Space Agency staff and guests.

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This article was published 3/12/2018 (1088 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

LONGUEUIL, Que. - As David Saint-Jacques blasted off into space Monday, retired astronaut Robert Thirsk clinically explained the process to a packed crowd of Canadian Space Agency staff and guests.

It was only after the spacecraft safely entered orbit about nine minutes later, drawing the first applause from an audience watching a live NASA feed, that Thirsk admitted to some pre-launch jitters about the Canadian astronaut's mission.

Canadian astronauts Bob Thirsk and Jenni Sidey-Gibbons watche the launch of astronaut David Saint-Jacques for the international space station from Kazakhstan at the Canadian Space Agency headquarters Monday, December 3, 2018 in St. Hubert, Que. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz

His former colleague was on the first manned launch since a rocket failure forced a Soyuz capsule carrying two astronauts to abort and make an emergency landing in October. Russia briefly suspended launches to investigate before giving the mission the all-clear Nov. 1.

"I think I was more anxious today than on a typical Soyuz launch because of the launch abort in October," Thirsk, the first Canadian to fly aboard a Soyuz capsule, said in an interview.

"But I do trust the Russian colleagues ... and they made the right decisions. And we saw today, complete success."

As Saint-Jacques became just the ninth Canadian to head into space, people across the country connected with the Canadian Space Agency to watch Saint-Jacques' historic flight.

Former astronaut Dave Williams took part in a launch party at the Ontario Science Centre in Toronto, while in Halifax, Mi'kmaq students, educators, and families gathered at the Discovery Centre to watch. Saint-Jacques holds a special place in the community: He has adopted the Mi'kmaq name, Tapit, and he is carrying into space what the Mi'kmaq describe as spiritual gifts.

By the end of his 6 1/2-month space mission, Saint-Jacques, 48, will have set a record for longest space trip for a Canadian  a record currently held by Thirsk.

But he won't have much time to dwell on that feat. Aboard the station, Saint-Jacques will be conducting a number of science experiments, including research on the provision of remote medical care and on the effects of microgravity on the body.

Thirsk is no stranger to long-duration space flight. He embarked on his own six-month trip to the space station in 2009, just a few weeks after Saint-Jacques joined the astronaut corps, and he has spent more time in space than any other Canadian, with 206 days under his belt.

Thirsk, 65, said he advised Saint-Jacques not to forget to take some time for himself.

"What he's doing right now is incredible  very few people have ever done it. So take time to stop and think about what you're doing for Canada, for humanity," Thirsk said. "Look out the window, without a camera, just look down at the planet and think about what the big picture is."

One of Canada's newest astronauts, Jenni Sidey-Gibbons, grinned broadly as the rocket carrying Saint-Jacques launched. She later said she was caught off guard by her own reaction watching her colleague fulfil a lifelong dream.

"I know that it's something that means a lot to him and his family and the team that got him there," she said.

But Sidey-Gibbons, selected for the space program in 2017, is excited about the prospect for what the future of exploration may hold  moving beyond the lower-Earth orbit and into deep space missions.

"Space is changing so quickly and my hope is Canada's as much a participant as it has ever been in international programs moving forward," she said. "We don't know where we're going to go or what we're going to find, but it's going to be interesting."OTTAWA - Canada will contribute $50 million to a global charity for children's education, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted to comedian Trevor Noah, a pledge that quickly drew criticism both for its content and its form.

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This article was published 3/12/2018 (1088 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau holds a closing press conference at the G20 Summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

OTTAWA - Canada will contribute $50 million to a global charity for children's education, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted to comedian Trevor Noah, a pledge that quickly drew criticism both for its content and its form.

Celebrities gathered in Johannesburg, South Africa on Sunday for the Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100, a charity concert honouring Nelson Mandela a century after he was born.

Trudeau tweeted to Noah, who is hosting the festival, that Canada would give the money to Education Cannot Wait, an organization that funds education for children affected by conflicts, natural disasters and other crises.

Global Citizen is an organization that wants to end extreme poverty by 2030. Its Mandela 100 campaign sought to bring in US$1 billion in donations, and Global Citizen tweeted that the campaign surpassed that goal, bringing in over $7 billion.

"Hey @Trevornoah - thanks for everything youre doing to celebrate Nelson Mandelas legacy at the @GlblCtzn festival. Sorry I can't be with you - but how about Canada pledges $50M to @EduCannotWait to support education for women & girls around the world? Work for you? Let's do it," Trudeau tweeted to the South African comedian and "The Daily Show" host.

Noah said "This is amazing!" as Trudeaus tweet was shown on a big screen at the concert.

But back in Canada critics were less enthusiastic. Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer accused Trudeau of pledging $50 million in a tweet to impress a TV personality.

"A lot of politicians like to be liked. He likes to have his tweets liked and he likes to have his messages retweeted and shared and it seems to be singularly focused on adulation from celebrities, whereas our party and our caucus is focused on doing what's right by Canadian taxpayers," Scheer said at an appearance in Winnipeg.

Similarly, Conservative MP Michelle Rempel tweeted that Trudeau's message was "tone deaf" and also accused him of trying to get noticed by a TV star and said the money had not been budgeted for.

Louis Belanger, the director of communications for International Development Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau, said the $50 million is part of $400 million in aid previously announced during the G7 Summit in Charlevoix, Que., near Quebec City, in June.

Belanger said Education Cannot Wait is one of the only funds that specifically helps girls' education in places such as refugee camps and war zones.

"This is the type of funding that we had our eye on since we announced it in Quebec City," he said.

Belanger said the decision to announce the $50 million was made three weeks ago but officials had been talking about giving to Education Cannot Wait for months.

He said the organization operates in Jordan, Lebanon and South Sudan and in camps where people have been displaced by the west African terrorist group Boko Haram, for example.

"We think it's important for girls to continue their education and that's why we're moving forward," he said.

Trudeau's principal secretary Gerald Butts took to Twitter to defend the move.

"This money is going to educate women and girls in the developing world, in commemoration of Nelson Mandelas 100th birthday," he tweeted, adding, "And the Leader of the Conservative Party of Canadas reaction..." and included a link to Scheer's tweet.

Toronto-based lawyer and former Liberal staffer Warren Kinsella tweeted that Education Cannot Wait is a worthy cause, but called Trudeau's tweet an "appalling" way for the decision to be communicated, "to a American-based TV host, no less."

With files from The Associated PressTORONTO - Two of the country's largest unions say they will be working together in an effort to stop what they describe as Ontario Premier Doug Ford's "destructive agenda."

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 3/12/2018 (1089 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Two of Canada's biggest unions plan to join forces against what they call Ontario Premier Doug Ford's "destructive agenda." President of Unifor Canada Jerry Dias, left, and Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) president Warren (Smokey) Thomas wait outside Ontario Premier Doug Ford's office to request a meeting about the "back-to-work" legislation by the Ontario PC government, at Queen's Park, in Toronto, Monday, July 16, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Mark Blinch

TORONTO - Two of the country's largest unions say they will be working together in an effort to stop what they describe as Ontario Premier Doug Ford's "destructive agenda."

The heads of Unifor and the Ontario Public Service Employees Union announced their alliance in the wake of Ford's reaction to General Motors' planned plant closure in Oshawa, Ont., saying the premier's comments last week indicate his priorities do not lie with everyday workers.

Ford has said there's nothing his government can do to convince the automaker to change course, adding the company's president had told him "the ship has already left the dock."

The union leaders contend that Ford and his Progressive Conservative government are more focused on corporate interests than the concerns of frontline workers and vow the two unions, with a combined membership of about 470,000 people, will be fighting back.

"Ontario's most prominent public and private sector unions are teaming up to block Premier Doug Ford's destructive agenda," OPSEU said in a statement on the collaboration Sunday night. "The solidarity of their members is a powerful force against Ford's anti-people, pro-corporate and pro-privatization agenda."

OPSEU President Warren "Smokey" Thomas said a weakened private sector will limit any government's ability to collect taxes and fund public services, adding pushing back against Ford would benefit all Ontario residents.

"We understand that public services are the great equalizer in society," Thomas said in a telephone interview. "It's in both our best interests, for our members and for society, to work together and co-ordinate our efforts and see if we can't back Mr. Ford up in some of his policies and encourage him to reinvest in public services."

The alliance, announced at Unifor's Ontario Regional Council meeting held over the weekend, was prompted largely by Ford's reaction to news that GM planned to shutter its Oshawa plant next year, taking at least 2,500 jobs with it, Thomas said.

Ford has said union leaders and politicians who talk about saving the Oshawa plant are selling "false hope" and said his government would help the affected workers find new jobs.

Both Thomas and Unifor National President Jerry Dias said Ford's reaction wasn't good enough. Thomas also criticized the premier for giving $34.5 million to Maple Leaf Foods for the construction of a consolidated plant in London, Ont., despite the fact the company will be shedding 300 net jobs by closing three other facilities in the province.

Dias said Ford has given the two unions even more reasons to push back against his plans.

"Doug Ford has clearly shown his playbook," Dias said in a statement. "It's one attack after another against working people and our families."

Ford spokesman Simon Jefferies said the government has been focused on helping workers, emphasizing tax cuts for low-income residents and enacting measures meant to attract business to Ontario.

"While life was good for Jerry Dias, Smokey Thomas, and their insider friends under (former premier) Kathleen Wynne and the Liberals, the government for the people's priority will be fighting for the little guy not the union bosses," Jefferies said in a statement on Monday.

Thomas said the two unions would be co-ordinating in efforts to lobby legislators and speak up against government moves that the unions feel could jeopardize workers.

He said the unions will also push to reinstate some labour-related measures introduced by the former Liberal regime that have been reversed by the Ford government, including a $15 minimum wage that was planned for next year and more lenient sick day policies.

 with files from Adam BurnsThe political machinations that have recently forced an American university to cease operations in Hungary should serve as a warning about the growing global threat of authoritarian regimes, current school president and former Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff said Monday.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 3/12/2018 (1088 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

President and Rector of the Central European University, CEU, Michael Ignatieff speaks during a press conference in Budapest, Hungary, Tuesday, May 30, 2017. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP, Zoltan Balogh/MTI

The political machinations that have recently forced an American university to cease operations in Hungary should serve as a warning about the growing global threat of authoritarian regimes, current school president and former Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff said Monday.

Ignatieff said that the Central European University, a graduate institution founded by billionaire George Soros in 1991, has been "forced out" of the country by the current far-right government of Victor Orban, who has joined other like-minded politicians in blaming the U.S. philanthropist for Europe's migrant crisis.

The university, which serves about 1,400 international students, has decided to move its U.S.-accredited degree programs from Hungary to neighbouring Austria next September after meeting with ongoing resistance from the Orban regime, said Ignatieff, the school's president and rector since 2016.

Ignatieff, who spent a turbulent three-year tenure as leader of Canada's federal opposition between 2008 and 2011, said the fate of CEU should serve as a warning sign to all democratic countries including Canada.

"This is a regime that...has gone after the courts, it's gone after the press, it's changed the constitution, it's gerrymandered the political system," Ignatieff said in a telephone interview. "There's a clear direction to what it's doing, and the attack on the university is just another stage in that process. I think Canadians should be concerned that democracy is under threat in Hungary."

Ignatieff said fears for CEU's future in Hungary emerged last year during Orban's re-election campaign in which the four-time prime minister frequently levied attacks at the Hungarian-born Soros.

Orban's government has conducted massive billboard and media campaigns against Soros blaming him for Europe's migrant crisis, a charge that Soros denies. In June, the parliament approved the "Stop Soros" law, which allows criminal penalties of up to a year in prison for those convicted of aiding asylum-seekers.

The pro-democracy philanthropist has also been criticized by U.S. President Donald Trump and vilified by right-wing conspiracy theorists.

Ignatieff said the Orban government imposed a host of new requirements for the university to meet in order to keep operating as an international graduate school in Budapest.

One new rule, for instance, required CEU to prove it had a campus in place in the U.S. Ignatieff said the school established educational programs with New York's Bard College to comply with the rule.

But he said the Orban government would not accept CEU's moves and ultimately refused to sign an agreement necessary to let it continue as a U.S.-accredited institution in Budapest.

Ignatieff noted a certain irony in the situation given CEU's origins as an anti-communist university.

"This is an institution founded to assist the society transition out of single-party rule. We're being driven out of Hungary by a government that is consolidating single-party rule," he said. "This is a story about what happened to the transition from communism. It didn't go in the direction that anybody expected."

Hungary's fight with CEU is widely seen as part of a more comprehensive crackdown on academic freedom, including tighter budgetary and research controls over Hungarian universities. In October, for example, the government eliminated gender study programs at public universities.

Ignatieff said Hungary is not the only country to see many democratic rights swept away by the current regime, saying authoritarian governments in other European countries, including Poland, point to an alarming global trend.

It's one he said Canadians should monitor with caution.

"Canadians take their democracy for granted, but they shouldn't," he said. "Democracy is not secure, and it's not secure in this part of Europe. In the 21st century no place is very far away, and what starts in one place can easily spread to many places."

Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland called Monday's announcement "a terrible loss."

"This forced move is a blow to academic freedom, which is a fundamental right, and all the more troubling given that Hungary is a NATO and EU member state," she said.

Incoming students in CEU's masters and doctoral programs will start studying at the Vienna campus in the 2019-2020 academic year, while students already enrolled may remain in Budapest to complete their degrees.

 with files from the Associated PressPopulist parties gaining strength in the European Parliament Elections next May and Brexit may likely keep the pressure on European and Irish banks in 2019, a report by S&P Global Ratings suggests.

Irish bank shares have fallen sharply this year weighed by fears over Brexit and the wider concerns of investors about allocating money into European bank stocks.

Credit conditions remain broadly supportive for banks, but the threats posed by monetary policy normalisation, trade tensions, and ongoing political risk are dragging down investor confidence and weakening economic momentum, says the S&P report, Global Banks 2019 Outlook: Bracing For More Volatility.

Highlighting the significant risk of a no deal Brexit, it assesses UK banks would have the most to lose through their earnings and balance sheets would provide a material cushion, while banks in Ireland, Belgium, or the Netherlands would likely better accommodate its adverse consequences.

Its key assumptions include that Brexit wont be overly disruptive and that the ECB will hike rates in the second half of next year and continue hiking with two rate rises per year from 2020.

But wider European politics such as the EU and Italian government budget clash may again prove unsettling in 2019.

With their sights set firmly on the European parliamentary elections in May 2019, a sizable vote for nationalist parties could put the brakes on any remaining momentum toward a closer union, says the report.

We expect banks to face more market volatility in 2019 from policy uncertainty and the rollback of monetary easing, helping to put the spotlight on the imbalances that have built up in some developed and emerging markets, even if improved balance sheet soundness in many banking systems should moderate the impact.

The level of Irish non-performing loans will fall but will likely remain among Europes highest, with Italy, though better than Greece, Cyprus, and Portugal, according to the report.Latest: In Dublin teachers at the English language school Grafton College have occupied the building.

They are protesting unpaid wages following the snap closure of the school last Friday.

Trade union Unite has expressed its support.

In a statement they said: "This evening the teachers occupied the Portobello premises demanding that Education and Skills Minister Joe McHugh visit the college and speak to the teachers.

"They are also demanding that the Qualification and Quality Assurance bill designed to regulate the sector, which is currently making its way through the Oireachtas, be fast-tracked and amended to include minimum standards of employment for teachers, and that the owner of the college, Saeed Rehman, engage with them regarding the monies owed."

Digital Desk

420 students face month long wait to resume English classes after Grafton College closure

By Niall Murray, Education Correspondent

Earlier: More than 400 international students will have to wait until next month to resume their English classes after their Dublin language school went into liquidation.

But while students of Grafton College are assisted by a sectoral learner protection scheme, more than 30 teachers and other staff face a less certain future.

They and the 420 students were told by college manager Nicholas Kelly yesterday morning that the college in Portobello was shutting down. But the difficulties facing the college emerged on Friday when around 60,000 of monthly wages were not paid into the 35 staffs bank accounts.

The college opened in 2003 and is a member of the Marketing English in Ireland (MEI) umbrella body for accredited English language schools. MEI said that Grafton College management had informed them in recent days of trading difficulties and the likely impact on students.

But arrangements are being made, under MEIs learner protection process, to ensure that students get to continue and complete their courses with other member colleges.

"We will know those details by the end of the week, but we assured all the students they will have their courses fully delivered. It will be after Christmas [when they can begin again]," said MEI chief executive David O'Grady.

He said that the situation has been discussed with the Department of Justice and that students' visa durations or entitlement to work part time should not be affected by the disruption to their studies. Although any students who have paid a deposit for a future course are not covered, Mr O'Grady said he believes there are relatively few people in that situation as the college was preparing to move to a smaller premises in January.

Around three-quarters of Grafton College's students were from Brazil, with many others from Ecuador and Chile, and also a large group from Mongolia.

The college is managed by one of the company directors of Grafton College of Management Sciences Ltd, Nicholas Kelly. But its financial affairs were said to be strictly controlled by its London-based director and company secretary Saeed Rahman.

The duration and cost of Grafton Colleges courses vary, depending on the qualification or standard required, but most have paid around 1,800 for courses of at least 25 weeks in duration.

Some teachers are represented by the Unite union, whose regional organiser Roy Hassey said the situation reinforces the need for legal protection of the interests of teachers and students in the English language colleges sector.

The union wants amendments to be made to the Qualification and Quality Assurance Bill, which reaches committee stage in the Seanad tomorrow, to ensure minimum employment standards for teachers in the sector.

Unite staged a protest at Grafton College yesterday evening in support of staff left out of work and without last month's wages.

More than 20 teaching staff were among those left unpaid on Friday and local management met with them and their representatives at the college yesterday morning.780,000 people in Ireland are living in poverty, according to the latest report from Social Justice Ireland.

This figure includes 250,000 children as detailed in the think-tank's National Social Monitor for winter 2018.

The group recommends implementing a universal social welfare pension and says increases in expenditure in this area are "barely keeping pace" with demographic changes.

The National Social Monitor is published three times a year by the independent justice advocacy organisation.

It highlights the increasing waiting times for treatment in Irelands hospitals and care centres and says the number of people on lists now stands at more than 700,000.

"Ireland has a hospital bed occupancy rate of almost 95%, almost 20 percentage points above the OECD average," said Michelle Murphy, Research and Policy Analyst at Social Justice Ireland.

"Such high occupancy rates are associated with an increased risk of healthcare-associated infections, increased mortality and no capacity within the hospital system to cope with unforeseen events.

"Government must roll out the 96 primary care networks as a matter of urgency and fully resource the implementation of the SlainteCare strategy," she said.

The group also recommends establishing a scheme to provide homecare services for the elderly, people with disabilities and with mental health needs. It also says community nursing facilities should be established to provide additional capacity.

With regard to housing and homelessness, Social Justice Ireland says a focus on short-term housing solutions provided through the private rented sector, rather than the investment of capital spending in social housing, is having an adverse effect.

It reports that more than 11,000 people are homeless and that almost 110,000 households are in need of social housing.

Government needs to dramatically increase the construction of social and low-cost homes," said Colette Bennett, Research and Policy Analyst at Social Justice Ireland.

Family homelessness increased by over 350% between September 2014 and September 2018. There is a real risk that current Government policy of promoting Family Hubs will normalise family homelessness.

"Government policy should be directed at providing homes and not hubs. Government should immediately introduce legislation to limit the amount of time families and vulnerable adults spend in hubs, she said.

The lack of progress with the National Broadband Plan is also of "particular concern" as 500,000 homes are still without the service.

"The lack of movement in respect of the National Broadband Plan is impacting on existing businesses, delaying rural development and putting rural communities at a disadvantage at a time of increased digitalisation of basic services," Ms Murphy said.

Dr Sean Healy, Director of Social Justice Ireland, said the numbers were "both unacceptable and unnecessary at a time when resources are available to make a real impact on addressing the causes of these problems".

The mistaken belief that economic growth will trickle down to benefit everyone in a fair and just manner has led to successive Governments implementing policies that give priority to economic growth over all other areas," he said.

While many of those policies have been very successful at generating economic growth, they have not succeeded in having those resources transformed into the levels of service and infrastructure, of equality and inclusion, that most Irish people would support or desire.

"Economic growth alone is not enough. More is required if we are to have a society which addresses the basic needs and promotes the basic rights of its population," he said.Environmental campaigner Peter Sweetman has gone to court in a battle to protect Munster's freshwater pearl mussel.

The campaigner has mounted a legal challenge to a decision of the Minister for Heritage Culture and the Gaeltacht to remove protection for the endangered freshwater pearl mussel from part of Munster's Blackwater River area.

File photo of a freshwater pearl mussel.

The High Court heard the rare pearl mussel in the main channel of the Blackwater through counties Waterford and Cork had been subject of a previous order making it a special protection area.

Today, Mr Justice Seamus Noonan granted Mr Sweetman leave to bring judicial review proceedings following a one-side only represented application.

Ireland hosts approximately 46 per cent of the EU population of the species and has approximately 96 individual populations within 139 rivers as well as in lakes. These populations range in size from hundreds to almost three million.

Mr Sweetman's lawyer told the court the Minister's decision to change that statutory designation removes special protection from 40 per cent of the area previously covered.

The Minister, the court heard, argues less than one per cent of the pearl mussel population is affected.

The Sweetman side said this view is based on out-of-date scientific evidence.

Mr Sweetman says, in an affidavit, the pearl mussels "can't by themselves take court cases" to ensure their protection so the only other option is for interested members of society to do so.

He says he has already been party to three Court of Justice of the EU (CJEU) decisions which, if properly applied by planners and decision-makers, should have the effect of enhancing protection for flora, fauna and conserving species for the enjoyment of future generations.

Evelyn Moorkens, an ecologist on behalf of Mr Sweetman, says in an affidavit she published a paper in 2010 which formed the basis for a National Parks and Wildlife Service conservation strategy in 2011. She has continued to research since then and says the 2011 strategy should be revisited on the basis of findings between then and 2018.

She was surprised to see the Munster Blackwater main channel was selected to be removed from the new freshwater pearl mussel regulations, as it is one of two areas where populations are likely to have more resilience due to flow variation and habitat variety than other areas.

She was also surprised there had been no scientific investigations to back up the changes.

Ms Mookens, who says she is one of the few ecologists specialising in the freshwater pearl mussel, was not contacted by the Department about the change and she was unaware of any other expert being involved. There doesnt seem to have been an opportunity to make submissions before the decision was made, she says.

She disputes the Minister's view that the Blackwater has just 0.08 per cent of the mussel population.

Mr Justice Seamus Noonan, granting permission to bring proceedings, said the matter could return to court in February.Update - 11.57am: Social Democrats co-leader Catherine Murphy has expressed disappointment at the delay in enacting legislation on the expiry dates of gift vouchers.

In June, Minister for Enterprise Heather Humphreys secured the backing of Cabinet for plans to introduce a minimum five-year expiry date on gift vouchers. As part of her Bill, she sought to tackle the issue of gift voucher fees. The process was opened for public consultation in August and more than 100 submissions were received including intense lobbying from the largest gift voucher company in the State.

As a result, changes proposed by Ms Humphreys will not come into effect ahead of the busy Christmas period when vouchers worth tens of millions of euro will be bought and sold.

Ms Murphy, who has long advocated for such legislation, told RTEs Today with Sean ORourke show that it was very disappointing that the legislation would not be in place before Christmas.

She said: It would have been the right thing to do at this time of year when people buy vouchers.

She said there was goodwill across the Dail for the proposed legislation and had been for a number of years since Richard Bruton had proposed changes in 2015, but had been told at the time to wait until there were EU changes in relation to online and distance sales.

We keep coming across excuses. Why cant the legislation be brought in? The system is completely unregulated at present. Companies make up their own rules.

It was outrageous that somebodys hard earned cash would have no value after 12 months. The consumer needs protection.

It is important that the Bill gets into the Dail so it can be enacted and the consumer can be protected, she said.

Earlier: Christmas coming too early for new gift card rules

New rules to protect gift card holders will not be brought in in time for Christmas.

Plans to put a minimum five-year expiry date on gift vouchers were agreed by Cabinet in June.

A public consultation was opened three months ago on whether maintenance fees should also be axed.

The Irish Times reports that more than 100 submissions were received including from One4All, who objected to the proposals.

The Business Minister Heather Humphreys is now seeking legal advice and so no changes will be made before the festive season.

- Digital DeskA Cork man who lifted a 10-year-old girl from her bed while she was sleeping has lost an appeal against sentence for sexual assault.

Sean Garvey, aged 52, of Hartlands Avenue, The Lough, had pleaded not guilty to sexually assaulting the girl at a house in Cork on February 6, 2016.

He was found guilty by a jury and sentenced to seven years imprisonment with the final two years suspended by Judge Gerard OBrien on June 1, 2017.

The victim was not related to Garvey. Her family wanted Garvey named in the media following his sentencing. However, it is not possible to publish any information in relation to the case that would identify the victim.

He lost an appeal against his sentence today with the Court of Appeal unable to identify any error in principle.

President of the Court of Appeal Mr Justice George Birmingham said the 10-year-old girl was awoken around 3am to Garvey lifting her out of bed.

She went to the toilet first, and Garvey attempted to follow her.

She was dragged downstairs by the wrist, according to prosecuting counsel Dermot Sheehan BL, where she was touched in the vagina and chest areas. Garvey also attempted to take down her clothes.

The assault came to an end when the girl managed to kick Garvey and wind him. She ran and alerted an adult.

Mr Justice Birmingham said Garvey had a good work record, though his working career had come to an end for medical reasons. A medical report from Garveys longtime GP referred to him experiencing stress and anxiety.

He had some previous convictions for road traffic and public order matters but none were relevant to this offence.

Mr Justice Birmingham said the offence was clearly a serious one. It had had a very significant affect on the injured party as well as her family.

The fact the case was contested, on a guilty plea, meant the most powerful mitigation that would have been available was not available to Garvey.

Mr Justice Birmingham, who sat with Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, said the court could not identify any error in principle and the appeal was therefore dismissed.A judge has made orders restricting a vulnerable young man's access to social media after being told his misuse of it has lead to deterioration in his situation and may expose him to risk.

The president of the High Court, Mr Justice Peter Kelly, also directed that the man, a ward of court aged in his early twenties and with various behavioural and personality disorders, cannot access Grindr, a gay dating website.

The man, who is detained at a specialist facility, had told care staff that a male on Grindr had sought access to him for sexual relations.

Noting the man had said he did not want a sexual relationship with men, the judge directed there should be no access to Grindr.

Mr Justice Kelly said the "greatest care" must be taken concerning the man's use of social media in the present because that had created such problems for him in the past.

He made specific orders preventing the man accessing social media between 9pm and 9am daily.

The centre would have responsibility to ensure any social media access permitted outside those hours would be reasonable, the judge said. If it was not reasonable, the man's access may be removed, he warned

The man has been detained since early this year at the specialist facility amid concerns including he had made plans, via social media, to travel to Las Vegas for a gig.

A consultant psychiatrist was of the view he lacks capacity to manage his affairs, including his financial affairs and would need ongoing support to deal with risk-taking and other behaviours.

The orders permitted the centre to detain him and manage his rehabilitation in his best interests.

The matter returned to court today when David Leahy BL, for the HSE, supported by the general solicitor for wards of court, sought orders permitting regulation of the man's access to social media.

Mr Leahy said the man had made some progress but, since he was given a smartphone by a relative last summer as a birthday present, his situation has deteriorated.

The man is "up half the night" on his smartphone and this has resulted in his not getting up some days until after 3pm and sometimes as late as 8pm, counsel said.

The man uses the phone to access the dating websites Grindr and Tinder and is in contact with people in the US and Nigeria, he said. He had told staff he was engaging in group chats with people using Snapchat, Facebook and Grindr but would not discuss the content of those.

He had disengaged with activities considered beneficial for him and was sometimes verbally abusive to staff, the court was told.

The judge said surely people who are skilled in looking after children, and who are in the place of parents, did not need a specific court direction to behave as responsible parents would.

Mr Leahy said the centre's concerns about managing the matter arose for reasons including another placement had broken down when the man's phone was taken from him.

The judge said he was "frankly shocked" such phone access was being permitted and he would have thought "common sense would apply".

Matters had clearly worsened since last summer, the man's situation and behaviour had deteriorated and he also denied he was spending a lot of time on the phone and refused to hand it up, he noted. On some occasions, he had also not taken prescribed medication.

A consultant psychiatrist had reported her opinion the man would need the protection of wardship for about another year and to remain in the centre until he learns better coping mechanisms. Otherwise, she feared he might abscond and possibly leave the country.

In the circumstances, the judge said he would make specific orders for regulation of social media access.The family of Anthony O'Mahony, the man killed by a Kerry farmer when he drove the prongs of a teleporter into his car, have reacted angrily to a five year sentence imposed on the man convicted of his manslaughter.

Speaking outside court today Mr O'Mahony's niece, Ann OCarroll, said her family could still not believe Michael Ferris was acquitted of murdering her uncle Anthony OMahony and said the five year sentence handed down today for his manslaughter did not go far enough.

"Our pain has been exacerbated by the lenient sentence impose today ... and as a result we believe it denigrates the value of Anthony's life."

VIDEO Ann OCarroll says family cant believe Michael Ferris was acquitted of murdering her uncle Anthony OMahony and feel the five year sentence handed down for his manslaughter didnt go far enough. pic.twitter.com/UnjvbthutD  Frank Greaney (@FrankGreaney) December 3, 2018

She went on: "Our family strongly believe that justice was not served in this case. The just outcome would have been a conviction for murder given that the crime was clearly deliberate and premeditated as outlined during the trial," she said.

Ms O'Carroll added: "The trial was a deeply distressing and painful ordeal for our family. Our brother, uncle and friend was taken from us in the most brutal and violent way possible. This pain was made worse by the blackening of Anthony's good name and character during the trial when he was not there to defend himself. And now our pain has been exacerbated by the lenient sentence imposed today.

"The defence legal team's use of alleged provocation in this case allowed the jury to return a conviction for the lesser charge of manslaughter. To our family it felt like they were using this for a justification for the killing of Anthony and as a result we believe it denigrates the value of Anthony's life.

"Victim blaming occurs daily in other courts cases in Ireland and this is clearly another example of it in our criminal justice system. We would like to thanks the guards, our neighbours, family and friends for their support during this difficult time. We are devastated at the loss of Anthony and we will never recover from this," she said.

Farmer jailed for five years for 'horrific and horrendous' manslaughter of neighbour in Co Kerry

Kerry farmer Michael Ferris, who drove the prongs of a teleporter into his neighbour after a decades-long row about a noisy bird-scarer, has been jailed for five years at the Central Criminal Court for manslaughter.

Ms Justice Carmel Stewart called the killing "truly gruesome" and said Ferris had inflicted "horrific and horrendous" injuries on the deceased which defied belief and imagination.

I have to say the manner of Mr OMahonys death was unique and particularly gruesome and the effect it has and continues to have on his extended family is difficult to quantify, she stated.

A jury sitting in Tralee found dairy farmer Michael Ferris (aged 63) not guilty of murder but guilty of the manslaughter of his neighbour Anthony OMahony (aged 73) by a majority verdict of 10 to two.

The two-week trial, which ended on October 19, heard evidence that tillage farmer Anthony O Mahony suffered "catastrophic injuries" after he was repeatedly stabbed with the prongs of the teleporter while he sat in his car.

Ferris of Rattoo, Ballyduff, Co Kerry, had denied murdering neighbouring landowner Mr OMahony over the use of a crow-banger for scaring birds at Rattoo on the morning of April 4, 2017. The trial was told that the noise from it would wake the dead".

At a sentence hearing this morning, Ms Justice Stewart sentenced Ferris to six years in prison with one year suspended, backdated to April 4, 2017, when he first went into custody.

Brendan Grehan SC, defending bachelor farmer Ferris, said at last weeks sentence hearing that his client had asked him to express his remorse and sorrow for his actions that day as well as the death of Mr O'Mahony. "Mr Ferris did not want this opportunity to go by without conveying these sentiments," he added.

Sentencing Ferris today, Ms Justice Stewart said she did not propose to cite the lengthy evidence as it had been very poignantly summed up in victim impact statements presented to the court last week.

The judge said Ferris had inflicted horrific and horrendous injuries to Mr OMahony and these had been described in "great and graphic detail" at the trial by Dr Margaret Bolster.

Outlining the facts of the case, Ms Justice Stewart said the only consolation for the O'Mahony family was that his death would have been instantaneous in what was a truly gruesome and horrific attack.

The judge said she was required by law and the Constitution to impose a sentence which meets the particular circumstances of the offence and also of the offender. She said there was no definitive guideline from the appellate court as to what was an appropriate sentence where the verdict is not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter.

Ms Justice Stewart said she wanted to reassure Mr OMahonys family that she had taken account of the obvious grief they had suffered.

The judge said the maximum sentence for this offence was life in prison but she told the court that she had to look at other factors including the fact that the defendant admitted what he had done immediately after the tragic event as well as telling gardai of his actions that morning.

The judge also noted that Ferris had offered a plea of manslaughter prior to the trial which had not been accepted by the DPP. Legal authorities outline he must receive credit in any sentence imposed in respect of his attitude and plea, said Ms Justice Stewart, adding that it can never be denied that he had deprived Mr O'Mahony of his life in terrible circumstances as well as his family of his company.

The judge said in estimating the degree of provocation which resulted in Mr OMahonys death she had to look at the nature of the conduct and its cumulative effect on the offender. Evidence had been heard during the trial of the impact the crow banger had on people in Rattoo and the court could not fail to notice the distress and anguish on those individuals as well as the impact it had on their lives, she said.

Ms Justice Stewart said Ferris's brother was more "sanguine" when he gave evidence that he was not happy about the crow banger but he did not think much could be done about it.

It is a matter of profound regret to the OMahony and Ferris family and other individuals of the area that the matter was not dealt with otherwise, she commented.

However, the judge said provocation was a subjective test and the jury had to consider the impact it had on Ferris at that particular time as the conduct had occurred for 30 years.

Niece of the late Anthony OMahony, Ann OCarroll (centre) speaks to the media outside the Central Criminal Court in Dublin today. Pic: Collins

Ferris defence barrister Brendan Grehan SC, instructed by Frank Buttimer Solicitors, said in his closing speech to the jury of seven men and five women that he made no apology for speaking ill of the dead, which was not a normal thing to do but the community in Rattoo was being "oppressed" by Mr Mahony and living in fear of a "totally unreasonable person".

The defence argued that there had been a cumulative provocation because of the behaviour of the deceased and the fair and just verdict would be manslaughter. Mr Grehan said that Ferris was a good man who did a bad thing.

The judge said she would place the offence at the lower end of the upper range of manslaughter and the headline sentence was 12 years but this was not the end of the matter.

Mitigating factors in sentencing, Ms Justice Stewart said, was the fact Ferris admitted all along that he had unlawfully killed Mr OMahony and there had been prior correspondence to plead guilty to manslaughter which was not acceptable to the DPP. The appellant court had indicated over the years that this is equivalent to a guilty plea and the court must have regard to this, she commented.

Other mitigating factors included the fact Ferris admitted his involvement from the outset and he was otherwise a man of good character with no previous convictions, the court heard.

Referring to the defendant, the judge noted that he had also expressed his extreme remorse to Mr OMahonys family. Some people might think that an apology at this juncture is self-serving but the court must consider it by way of evidence and the overall personality of Mr Ferris, she said, adding that the court accepted the genuine nature of the apology and his remorse.

Before delivering her sentence, Ms Justice Stewart said the court also had to take into account the fact that Ferris would be 64 years of age next January.

The judge said in light of all the mitigating factors she would reduce the headline sentence by one third. And in light of other mitigating factors there will be a further two-year reduction, she said.

Ms Justice Stewart sentenced Ferris to six years imprisonment with the final year suspended, backdated to April 4, 2017, when he first went into custody. The final year was suspended for a period of three years to allow for the prospect of rehabilitation and to allow Ferris back into the society from which he came.

The defendant did not react when the sentence was revealed.

The judge reiterated her sympathies to Mr OMahonys family and told them that the court is constrained by previous cases and authorities. It does not diminish your grief and all I can do is hope you will come to some peace and happiness by way of getting on with your own lives, she concluded.

- Digital Desk"Today I take my life back I am so glad to get this day to be able to stand here in front of my family and friends and say what Ive wanted to say for years to you Batty Prendergast. I have won, I have survived and now my life starts and yours ends lonely and miserable which is just what you deserve. You can never hurt anyone again. From this I take great peace."

That is an extract from a long victim impact statement by one of Bartholomew Prendergast's victims, Stephanie Hickey, which was read to the court last July.

Stephanie Hickey (46) along with her sister, Deirdre Fahy (52), waived their right to anonymity at a sentence hearing last July so their abuser and brother-in-law Bartholomew Prendergast (66) could be named.

Today the former Waterford county council worker was sentenced to 10 years for the sexual abuse and rape of the two sisters and a third woman over the course of 12 years.

Sisters, Deirdre Fahy (left) and Stephanie Hickey speak to the media as they leave the Central Criminal Court today after the sentencing of Bartholomew Prendergast. Prendergast pleaded guilty to the sexual abuse of both women and was sentenced to ten years in jail. Photo: Laura Hutton/Collins.

During her statement last July Stephanie Hickey often spoke directly to her abuser.

"The pain I have carried silently growing up you will never know," she said.

"You took from me everything a child should have as they grow up, while I was supposed to be protected by adults whose care I was in during this time. I lost my virginity because of you and I wasnt even old enough to understand what you were taking from me. For this I will never ever forgive you.

"The fear you put in me of never wanting it to get dark at night time, the fear of going to bed never wanting to go to sleep in case you came to the room as you always did and cause me more pain and fear that I couldnt stop it.

I also hated having to take journeys alone with you in your lorry or van as I knew this always meant I would have to perform all these despicable acts that I hated and feared. I had to watch you full of pleasure and make me feel that this was normal this was good."

She said that when the rapes and sexual abuses took place she would feel like she was going to die.

"I would feel as if I was choking and could not breathe. The fear was and will forever be inside me. This is all down to you."

Ms Hickey said her life had been built around shame, regret, no confidence and hating herself - her body and everything about myself.

"I have missed out on so much happiness as a child through to teenage years. You have robbed me of it all, my body can never heal or recover. You took it all for your pleasure but I will forever be paying the price for an evil sick man."

She said she was led to believe by a family friend, a priest, that in the 1980s he was "fixed".

"I was told that there was proof of this, or so my sister your wife told me just under three years ago," she said. "If you were supposedly fixed why did you continue to abuse me for years after? For this I feel very hurt, and let down by whoever fixed you. I need answers from whom you spoke to help you at this time and, again, why as a child I wasnt protected as this hurt goes on."

The mother of four described how her marriage ended due to her lack of confidence and because her self-worth didnt allow her to stand up for herself and believe she deserved respect and love as her past life was haunting her.

"I will try to stop blaming myself for what you, you monster inflicted on me. I am no longer your victim I have taken back my life. I will never get my past back but now I have a future. You now will be the lonely one, with no friends, no voice, no independence. It was my voice, my sister and (reference to the third woman). You controlled and manipulated us for many years but we are survivors.

"I want you to fear sleep and fear being alone. I want you to forever more feel pain albeit with this you will just feel a little bit of my pain.

"When I started this process the stress and anxiety was made so much worse than I could ever have imagined. But from today I will allow myself to believe in me and stop blaming myself for what I know was not my fault.

Ms Fahy said she went from being a happy innocent child to living in constant fear. She said she felt huge regret that she didn't speak out when it happened to her, especially after she heard that he was doing the same and worse to my sister.

To think I could have stopped her from the hurt, Ms Fahy said before she added that she feels that she can now finally move on.

The last two and half years have been horrendous. I will never shake of the guilt that if I had spoken out at the time..., Ms Fahy said before she thanked the gardai and her family for their support.

The third woman's statement was read into the record. She said she was abused as a child when she was vulnerable and unable to defend herself.

She said the whole legal process took a lot of energy from her, opening old wounds and while Prendergast was innocent until proven guilty, I was guilty until proven innocent.

The woman said it took a long time to realise she was not to blame and described how during the abuse she was paralysed with fear.

I couldn't move or speak, my heart was thumping in my chest and ears. I felt like I was going to have a heart attack, she continued.

She said she was worried that Prendergast might abuse his own daughter and wondered how his wife stayed with him.

The fact that her husband was a paedophile would be one hard drug to swallow, she said.

She said his actions have hurt many people and said their lives have been consumed with it. She described the damage as irreversible and wondered why it was not stopped years ago when it was brought to people's attention.

I wondered why I didn't kick him in the testicles, the woman said before she added that she doesn't blame herself anymore.

The wheel has turned full circle, she said before she concluded that she hopes Prendergast doesn't put the fear of God into a child again".

Former Waterford council worker jailed for 10 years for rape and abuse of three women over 12 years

Earlier: A former Waterford county council worker has been sentenced to 10 years for the sexual abuse and rape of two sisters and a third woman over the course of 12 years.

Stephanie Hickey (46) along with her sister, Deirdre Fahy (52), waived their right to anonymity at a sentence hearing last July so their abuser and brother-in-law Bartholomew Prendergast (66) can be named.

Reading from her victim impact statement Ms Hickey asked how the abuse could have continued when Prendergast was supposedly fixed after a priest directed him to get counselling.

At the Central Criminal Court last July Garda Patricia Lonergan told Michael Delaney SC, prosecuting, that after something was brought to the attention of Stephanie's parents, a local priest was consulted and Prendergast was sent for counselling, but continued to abuse Ms Hickey afterwards.

Bartholomew Prendergast pictured at an earlier court sitting

All three women made statements to gardai in December 2015.

Gda Lonergan said various disclosures had been made to different members of the families involved over the years, but nothing was ever done apart from the meeting with the priest.

Prendergast, of Cruachan, Dungarvan was arrested in April 2016 and interviewed three times. He denied ever raping Stephanie Hickey and said he was both vehement and definite in those denials.

He pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to the offences following a day of legal argument after a jury had been sworn in for his trial.

He has recently retired from Waterford County Council and is also a well known musician in the locality. He has since separated from his wife, has three adult children and has no previous convictions.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of rape and 13 counts of indecent assault of his sister-in-law Stephanie Hickey at locations in Co Waterford and Co Tipperary on dates between 1983 and 1987.

Ms Hickey was aged between 12 and 15 years old at the time of the offences.

Prendergast also pleaded guilty to one count of indecent assault against Ms Fahy on a date between 1979 and 1981, while she was aged between 13 and 14 years old.

He further pleaded guilty to two counts of indecent assault of a third woman, now 39 years old, on dates between 1988 and 1991, while she was aged between nine and 12 years old. This woman is aware that Prendergast will be named in reporting of the case but she does not wish to be identified.

Today Ms Justice Eileen Creedon suspended the final 18 months of a ten year prison sentence on strict conditions, including that Prendergast undergo a sex offenders treatment programme and be under the supervision of The Probation Service for 18 months.

She said it was clear that there was a profound and negative impact on the victims who were all left feeling fear, guilt and shame.

She said Prendergast's crime also impacted the women's family lives and their own relationships.

He was part of the inner family circle, Ms Justice Creedon said before she added that the women were entitled to feel safe in Prendergast's company and equally their parents should have been able to feel that their daughters would be safe with him.

The judge said the offences were a serious breach of trust and the women found difficult to escape from the abuse.

She also noted the evidence that the abuse continued despite a family discussion of it and an intervention from a local priest.

Ms Justice Creedon gave Prendergast credit for his ultimate pleas of guilty, noting that it was an important step in vindicating the victims.

She acknowledged a submission from his legal team that given his profile in the community the publication of his name will represent an additional burden for both Prendergast and his family.

Gda Lonergan said at the previous hearing that Prendergast married Patricia Hickey, Stephanie's and Deirdre's sister in June 1981 and the couple moved into a three storey building in west Waterford.

Patricia set up a hairdressing salon on the ground floor and Stephanie visited most weekends to help out.

Ms Hickey later told gardai that Prendergast first started to abuse her when she was 12 years old, either in his family home or while he was driving her to and from her own family home, which was also in west Waterford.

Gda Lonergan confirmed that Stephanie was mainly made perform oral sex on Prendergast and masturbate him but said that he also raped the teenager on two occasions.

She said on the day of the rape she had asked him to stop because it hurt but he said it would get better. She recalled being about 15 years old at the time.

She said he raped her on at least one other occasion but she was not sure what age she was.

Deirdre Fahy told gardai that she was 13 or 14 years old when she accepted a lift to the local shop from Prendergast. He was not married to her sister at the time. On the way home, he pulled over the car, put his hand inside her blouse, fondled her breast and kissed her.

She said she froze, he backed off and asked her if she had liked it. She said that was the only occasion Prendergast had touched her sexually.

The third woman was first abused by Prendergast in June 1988 when she was nine years old.

This woman said on one occasion Prendergast masturbated in front of her while sitting with her in his truck. When they returned home, her mother came out to greet them and Prendergast continued to masturbate while her mother stood below the cab driver's door talking up to him.

She described on another occasion that he sexually assaulted her in the kitchen of a house full of people after telling her she looked lovely.Update 10.58am: Obstetricians, hospitals and general practitioners are not going to be ready to provide abortion services on January 1, 2019, says a GP who specialises in gynaecology and paediatrics.

There are not enough details available yet on the proposed helpline or the website, Dr Illona Duffy told RTEs Today with Sean ORourke show.

Dr Duffy was responding to a walkout by a number of doctors yesterday at a meeting of GPs to discuss concerns about the provision of abortion.

More than 300 members of the Irish College of General Practitioners attended the three-hour extraordinary general meeting in Malahide, but the group of mostly anti-abortion doctors staged a walkout after half an hour.

Dr Duffy said the meeting was important to allow GPs to express their concerns and was not necessarily for those who were opposed to the provision of abortion services. She had signed the petition calling for the EGM because of her concern about the lack of planning for the introduction of abortion services.

She pointed out that in most other countries such services are provided mainly through clinics.

Dr Duffy said: Ireland is one of the only countries where abortion services will be through GPs, it is usually through clinics. In most countries patients self-refer to clinics.

There is a concern that GPs are already under pressure and this is an attempt to provide the service on the cheap.

She said: GPs will be left dealing with this complicated process. This is being done without consultation and without taking our concerns into consideration.

Another GP, Dr Kirsten Fuller, who was one of those who left the meeting on Sunday, said that she did not believe that general practice was an appropriate setting for abortion services.

Dr Duffy said this was a missed opportunity by the Minister for Health to provide free contraception. He made no effort. We should be trying to prevent unwanted pregnancies so we would not have to perform abortions.

Dr Fuller said that she wanted to be protected by law as a conscientious objector. She said it was sad that the Minister had taken a stance without consulting with GPs.

Earlier: Dept orders HSE to ensure abortions available from January

The Department of Health has told the HSE to make sure abortion services will be available in the country's maternity hospitals from January 1, 2019.

The Times Ireland edition reports training for medical workers will get underway next week ahead of the anticipated rollout.

The Irish College of General Practitioners has said it is sorry that those who walked out of its meeting yesterday did not stay to listen.

They were discussing the abortion legislation that is due to come into force in January.

A number of doctors walked out, some had conscientious objections to providing the service while others had concerns over increasing workloads.

Health Minister Simon Harris has said doctors have a right to object to providing the service but says women also have a right to healthcare.

GP in Kerry, Andrew O'Regan, feels their voices were not heard.

Dr O'Regan said: "This time 650 GPs petitioned the IAGP for an EGM, the IAGP held an EGM but said that the petition was not done properly and to our dismay at the EGM, all calls for a vote, all calls for any sort of democratic process were denied."

A group representing hundreds of nurses and midwives say they are standing with the doctors who are unhappy with the preparations.

Fiona McHugh from Nurses and Midwives 4 Life says there are clinical implications which still have not been addressed.

Ms McHugh said: "We've had no meetings with Minister Harris at all, in fact, we've had no meetings whatsoever.

"This service is to be rolled out in January and any service that is new to healthcare, there would be talk about how this is going to happen, you'd have to work through a process.

"None of this has happened, we're completely and utterly in the dark."

- Digital DeskA Dublin man who left a pensioner lying helpless on the ground after robbing her handbag in a cowardly, exploitative and opportunistic offence has been jailed for one and a half years.

Anthony Graham (28) of Dunsink Road, Finglas, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to robbing then 81-year-old Rita Murphy of her handbag containing her pension money, reading glasses, keys and groceries at St Margaret's Road, Finglas, on January 6, 2018.

His previous convictions include attempted robbery of a 19-year-old woman's purse and robbery of a 48-year-old woman's handbag, for which he received sentences in the District Court.

Judge Martina Baxter said it was a serious robbery of an elderly lady going about her business and that Graham, a father-of-one, had left her helpless on the ground.

The judge described the incident as a cowardly, exploitative and opportunistic offence and said Graham should feel ashamed.

Garda Michael Costello told the court he was driving in the Finglas area with his window down when he heard screaming and looked around to see an elderly lady on the ground.

A male in distinctive clothing passed by his window on a bike and failed to stop when requested.

Gda Costello told Joe Barnes BL, prosecuting, that he pursued the man and caught up with him at Cappagh Avenue, Finglas. The man, Graham, claimed his bike had been in a collision with an elderly woman.

Gda Costello said while he was speaking with Graham, information came over his car radio that an elderly lady had attended Finglas Garda Station complaining about being robbed.

Graham then admitted the robbery and said he had discarded items from the bag. Gda Costello with colleagues went back over the route his bicycle had taken and recovered all property, apart from 100 cash.

Judge Baxter noted that Ms Murphy no longer shops in Finglas, that her weekly pension had been stolen and never recovered, but that fortunately she was alright following the robbery.

The judge said it hasn't helped Graham's predicament that he was employed at the time. She accepted that his family had repaid the robbed cash.

Keith Spencer BL, defending, submitted to Judge Baxter that his client had matured, was regretful and remorseful and had broken with his addiction difficulties. He said Graham would have continued family support on his release from prison.

Judge Baxter took into account Graham's early guilty plea, his co-operation with the investigation and his personal circumstances. She imposed a three-year sentence with the final 18 months suspended for 24 months.By Sarah Slater

James Joyces spectacles worn by him while writing his major work Ulysses are up for auction tomorrow.

The original and iconic pair of pince-nez glasses are conservatively estimated to be worth up to 15,000.

Being auctioned by Fonsie Mealy Auctioneers, the glasses which are in good condition, come with a velvet lined morocco case from a Dublin optician, Yeates & Co. The pair also have a nose clip instead of earpieces, with gilt fittings and chain.

George Mealy auctioneer based in Castlecomer, Co Kilkenny said: The glasses are a tangible link to Joyce and they give the world a vision of what Joyce was seeing while writing Ulysses. Indeed they provide a chance to look through Joyces eyes. To have the glasses back out in public eye is exciting.

"From the collection of close boyhood friend Thomas Pugh, of the famous glassmaking family, who also had eye issues, the glasses have an impeccable provenance and a wonderful item to have.

The glasses are being sold by the Pugh family and there has been significant interest from China, Japan, Australia and the US. Joyces passport from the same era as the glasses sold in Sothebys more than three years ago for 88,000.

Joyce had trouble with his eyes from early adulthood as did Pugh and the spectacles were gifted to him on one of his visits to Joyce in Paris.

The modernist novel, Ulysses, was first serialised in parts in the American journal, The Little Review, from March 1918 to December 1920, and then published in its entirety in Paris by Sylvia Beach on February 2, 1922 on Joyce's 40th birthday.

For years even the most eminent biographers of writer James Joyce have believed he was severely shortsighted.

But evidence in 2011 proves they were wrong he suffered from farsightedness, not shortsightedness. The new diagnosis was revealed in the British Medical Journal after closer inspection of his prescription glasses.

Joyce, who died in 1941 had delicate health and the Spanish and Dutch researchers pointed out that, "in particular, his failing eyesight were a constant liability in his life and continued to affect and complicate the composition of his work".

Two autographed letters sent by Joyce to Pugh both dated 1934 thanking him for sending photographs of Dublin along with requesting he visit his home in Paris are also up for grabs with respective guide prices of 6,000 and 8,000.

The electric mix of rare books and manuscripts auction takes place on in The Talbot Hotel, Stillorgan, Dublin.Efforts by junior ministers to claim more expenses to cover hotel costs have been deemed bananas in the run-up to a possible snap general election.

Government sources have confirmed a number of rural ministers met with Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe last week and pushed him to overhaul their expenses regime.

Their grievance is over the increasing cost of hotel rooms in the capital and the claim that ordinary backbenchers are allowed to claim more in expenses and allowances for less work.

Junior ministers are entitled to a basic TD salary of 94,535 and a ministerial payment of 35,319, pushing their income to 129,854.

A government source familiar with the talks and the identities of the relevant junior ministers labelled the approach as bonkers.

This is bananas, meeting the minister and asking for this ahead of a potential general election.

It is understood the several junior ministers told Mr Donohoe that they were paying as much as 500 a week in Dublin for overnight accommodation in hotels, but were not entitled to claim for this.

They said ordinary non-Dublin TDs can claim accommodation and travel expenses up to some 34,065 in a year while ministers cannot.

The government source added: It is true they [ministers] do more when on the job. But it was the wrong time to look at this, even if it was in the context of after any election.

"Sure, you wouldn't know who would be a junior minister and who would not depending on the government make-up then.

Mr Donohoe declined to comment on last week's meeting, which reportedly also saw the ministers remind him they had foregone salary increases over the past two years under the public pay restoration agreement.

A spokesman for the finance minister told the Irish Examiner: There is no comment in respect of private meetings held by the Minister. Minister Donohoe routinely meets with Ministers of State on various issues.

The demands have emerged at a time of increasing public sector pay demands, including in the health services, and the threat of strike action by nurses in the coming weeks over their income. Teachers are also heading towards industrial action over the pay gap for those who started work since 2011.

Several junior ministers yesterday were staying quiet about the issue and did not return calls from the Irish Examiner.By Fiona Ferguson

A homeless man who handed a threatening note into a shop demanding 20,000 with further weekly money instalments has been jailed for three years.

Aoife O'Leary BL, defending, said her client Brendan Glynn (aged 31) had acted in an impulsive, bizarre and outlandish way to attempt to get money, which was never going to work.

Glynn, of no fixed abode and who is currently in custody, pleaded guilty to demanding money with menaces at Spar, The Stiles Road, Clontarf, Dublin on July 16, 2017. He has 46 previous convictions.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard Glynn had no connection to serious criminality and had no way of carrying out his threats.

Garda Niall McDonnell told Fiona Crawford BL, prosecuting, that Glynn had entered the store with his face partially covered and handed in a typed note for the owner.

The note demanded 20,000 and then 2,000 a week afterwards and contained threats including burning the shop down. It warned the owner not to contact gardai and told him he was being watched.

The owner alerted gardai and Glynn was arrested two days later. Glynn, who had also been begging outside another branch of Spar in the area, identified himself on CCTV.

Gda McDonnell agreed with Aoife O'Leary BL, defending, that it appeared to be a random and bizarre offence which was unlikely to work out for him. He agreed that gardai were able to reassure the victim that Glynn had no connection to serious criminality and he was not in a position to carry out any of his threats.

Ms O'Leary said it was an unusual offence which had been very frightening for the injured party and Glynn had asked her to apologise. She said the fact the note was typed showed some degree of effort but submitted there had been no planning put into bringing it to fruition.

She said Glynn, originally from Sligo, had been staying with family in the Dublin area at one point but they were no longer able to accommodate him and he had been on the street at the time. Ms O'Leary said drugs had been a huge issue for him since the age of 14 years old and he had been using heroin at the time of the offence.

Today, Judge Melanie Greally said: the content of the letter was such that it would instil extreme fear in the most firm of persons by reference to the persons who were mentioned in the correspondence.

She gave Glynn credit for his guilty plea, that it was not a sophisticated or particularly thought out endeavour and that it had been committed while in the throes of addiction and homelessness.

Judge Greally imposed a four-year sentence with the final 12 months suspended for that period. She ordered that Glynn follow all directions from The Probation Service, in particular, to address his addictions.New figures released this evening show the number of people sleeping rough in Dublin has increased to 156.

This is an increase from 110 earlier this year.

It shows a surge of 42% on the spring count, although the numbers are down 15% on last year's record figures.

The count was completed by DCC and homeless NGO's who are again appealing to the Government, that not enough is being done to deal with the current crisis on our streets.

Speaking on the release of the figures, Paula Byrne, CEO of Merchants Quay Ireland said: "These figures are a tragic reminder that, as we head into Christmas, Ireland still faces a housing and homeless crisis. No one should be forced to spend Christmas on the streets.

Rough sleepers are the visible face of homelessness and they are the people we see day-in, day-out at Merchants Quay Ireland. We are open every night, right through Christmas, providing a safe place out of the cold for people who are homeless to rest and eat. Unfortunately, as this crisis continues, we need the support of the generous Irish public more than ever.

Alan, a client of Merchants Quay, said: Christmas time can be the hardest time to be homeless. Youre not around family and youre on your own and on the streets. If youve got somewhere you can come and take your mind off things, get something to eat, you feel like a human being again

Dublin Simon Community said: This figure is concerning and we look forward to the upcoming delivery of 233 extra emergency beds in the capital as part of this years cold weather initiative.

"We are seeing great efforts by the Local Authorities, Approved Housing Bodies and other Agencies to provide solutions for people who are homeless, however, the flow into homelessness means that there is a real challenge to keep up with the need for accommodation."

They continued: Todays figures emphasise the urgent need to provide housing so we can prevent people from becoming homeless in the first place.

"Keeping people in their homes and working with households at risk is an important priority for Dublin Simon Community and everyone involved in tackling the crisis.

Digital DeskDublin could have a new metro service by 2025 completely funded by private investment, according to the CEO of Dublin Metro.

Jed van de Poll says that the format has already worked successfully in Madrid at a fraction of the cost of the Jubilee Line in London.

While plans for a one-line Metro North are still in the pipeline, Mr van de Poll told Newstalk Breakfast that a six-line metro system linking into a central loop and connecting with existing routes and services such as Luas, Dart and Dublin Bus could be built quickly and efficiently using the Madrid model.

The Metro Dublin plan would cost 9bn, which he says is a third of what would normally be considered for a project of this size.

However, he says that no Government funding is required as private funding would be forthcoming for half of the cost while the other half would come from the European Investment Bank which was set up to fund such projects.

The Dublin Metro group has met with Minister for Transport Shane Ross from whom they received a very positive response. They are already in discussions with An Bord Pleanala and are hoping for a meeting with the National Transport Authority.

Mr van de Poll said: I think there is the political will for this, we want to build up the momentum, get people revved up to back the project.

He said he would like Minister Ross to visit Madrid to see for himself how successful the radial metro network is there.A Dublin student has been acquitted of humping a sleeping woman and headbutting her acquaintance.

Patrick Beauchamp (26) of Pembroke Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin, had pleaded not guilty to one count of sexual assault and two counts of assault causing harm at his home in the early hours of May 10, 2015.

A Dublin Circuit Criminal Court jury deliberated for three hours and 14 minutes before returning verdicts of not guilty on the sexual assault and the first allegation of assault causing harm.

They failed to return a verdict on the second assault causing harm charge, in which Mr Beauchamp was alleged to have later punched the other man out on the street.

Judge Patricia Ryan thanked the jurors for their time and asked that they not discuss the second allegation of assault in case of a possible re-trial. She adjourned the matter until December 20 of this year.

During the four-day trial, the woman gave evidence that she, her friend, an acquaintance and Mr Beauchamp all went back to Mr Beauchamp's home after a night club.

She said she had no recollection of the alleged sexual assault, but woke up on Mr Beauchamp's couch to see him and her acquaintance fighting.

This acquaintance told the jury Mr Beauchamp headbutted him after he had seen him humping the woman while she was asleep on the couch. He said Mr Beauchamp later punched him on the street when they were leaving the house.

Mr Beauchamp, a DIT student, denied in evidence that he had humped the woman and told the jury that he had acted in self-defence when the other man became aggressive.The British Prime Minister is being threatened with a "constitutional crisis" if her government does not publish the full legal advice on the Brexit deal.

Theresa May begins a week of debates in the House of Commons today ahead of a crucial vote on the withdrawal agreement next week.Seven people, including four children  one in a serious condition  have been taken to hospital after being exposed to chemicals at a swimming pool near Campbelltown, south-west of Sydney.

Emergency Services were called to the Wollondilly Community Leisure Centre on Argyle Street in Picton to a HAZMAT incident about 10am on Monday.

Twelve ambulance crews were at the scene and treated two adults and nine children, an ambulance spokesman said.

A Fire and Rescue NSW spokesman said crews arrived following reports that premixed chemicals had been added to the pool and formed a gas cloud, with people complaining of respiratory problems.The two men and woman accused of being involved in the killing and dumping of a man's body in a wheelie bin at a Brisbane unit complex will remain behind bars until at least January next year.

Jamie Lee Tarraran, 23, was charged as an accessory overnight and she appeared in Brisbane Arrests Court in person on Tuesday morning.

She sat cross-legged in the dock, dressed in prison green clothing and showed little emotion as the matter was dealt with.

The crime scene at the Yeronga Street unit block. Credit:Felicity Caldwell

Ms Tarraran's case was adjourned until January 21 for a committal callover in Brisbane Magistrates Court.Rob Karam (centre) carrying a blue folder, outside Melbourne Magistrates Court in 2009. Credit:Paul Rovere The DPP can now notify underworld figures, including Mokbel and his shipping industry inside man Rob Karam, that their lawyer had become a police informer and gave up information that puts their convictions at risk. The High Court said the prosecution of each convicted person was corrupted in a manner that "debased fundamental premises of the criminal justice system". "The public interest in preserving EF's anonymity must be subordinated to the integrity of the criminal justice system," the judgment reads. "It is further not without significance that Victoria Police may bear a large measure of responsibility for putting EF in the position in which she now finds herself by encouraging her to inform against her clients as she did.

"Generally speaking, it is of the utmost importance that assurances of anonymity of the kind that were given to EF are honoured. "But where, as here, the agency of police informer has been so abused as to corrupt the criminal justice system, there arises a greater public interest in disclosure to which the public interest in informer anonymity must yield." Hundreds of convictions at risk Informer 3838 claimed her information led to the convictions of hundreds of people.

"There were a total of 386 people arrested and charged that I am specifically aware of based upon information I provided to Victoria Police, but there are probably more because as you would know, I did not always know the value or use of some of the intelligence that I was providing," she wrote in a letter to police command in 2015. The case has been in the courts for years but was largely stifled by suppression orders. Some of those suppression orders were lifted on Monday morning, though Informer 3838's identity remains secret. Loading In a decision released on Monday, the Court of Appeal ruled the public interest in disclosing the lawyers role as an informer outweighed the risks to her, saying the disclosure would reveal the "real likelihood of a serious misdeed of public importance" on the part of the barrister and Victoria Police.

The convictions in question include Mokbel's, but particularly the convictions obtained in one of Australia's largest ecstasy hauls, the infamous "tomato tins" drug case linked with the Calabrian mafia. Federal police seized a container at Melbourne's docks in June 2007 that was filled with 4.4 tonnes of ecstasy hidden inside tomato tins shipped from Italy. Mokbel's shipping industry inside man and former horse racing identity Rob Karam is currently serving more than 35 years jail for his role in the infamous case. Karam's jail term is now in question, as well as that of Pasquale Barbaro, the head of the drug syndicate. Another underworld figure, Frank Madafferi, was also sentenced over the bust.

Why the defence lawyer became Informer 3838 Informer 3838 was registered as an informer in 2005 at the tail end of the gangland war. She had a mix of motivations for turning "supergrass", the Court of Appeal concluded, including "ill health, feeling trapped in the criminal world of her clients and frustrated with the way criminals used the system and wanted to be rid of Tony Mokbel and his associates". Her use as an informer "went right to the top" of Victoria Police, The Age was told. In particular, three senior police officers were on a steering committee that oversaw investigations where Informer 3838 was either used, or detectives attempted to use her to gather information from allegedly corrupt police.

Former chief commissioner Simon Overland, current Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton  who was then at the Office of Police Integrity  and current Assistant Commissioner Luke Cornelius were all on the steering committee. Loading Mr Overland, then a deputy commissioner, is understood to have asked then-Briars taskforce investigator Ron Iddles to take a statement from her. The Briars taskforce was investigating links between police corruption and the murder of self-professed vampire and male prostitute Shane Chartres-Abbott in June 2003. It is understood Mr Iddles refused to get the statement signed, believing the use of the informer was so unethical it could lead to a royal commission."The bipartisan committee has given a pretty clear steer on that question particularly as it relates to State Circle so we'll focus on that particular part of the route where they've given some pretty clear guidance in regards to the next steps for us." Mr Barr said the State Circle route represented a compromise between the two options voted on by the public earlier this year and would be the "path of least resistance" in getting the project fast-tracked. He said it would shave minutes of the journey from Civic to Woden, although there were "risks" involved with the placement of stops. Parliament House architect Harold Guida told the parliamentary committee earlier this year the government had told him in a briefing a stop on the circle would require a lift to carry people up to Federation Mall between old and new Parliament House. The station could have been underground, Mr Guida said, with talk of building a parallel tunnel to the State Circle tunnel, with the lift appearing on Federation Mall on the side of the road, in the area taken up with small parking spots.

However an ACT government spokeswoman said the Barton route was still a live -and preferred - option, based on extensive community consultation, technical analysis and discussions with a range of stakeholders, including the National Capital Authority. Transport Canberra officials also told the committee earlier this year the government had chosen to take light rail through Parkes and Barton as it would pass more employment hubs and cultural institutions, meaning more people would use the system. But Mr Barr said: "In the end there are inevitably compromises between the speed of the service and the amount of people you get a light rail stop close to." The National Capital Authority confirmed the route would not require a change to the National Capital Plan although would still need a heritage impact assessment and consideration by the Department of Environment and Energy and the Parliament as well as meeting design quality, landscape, moral rights and safety requirements.

"The NCA will assess the new proposed route on the provision of the appropriate documentation," a spokeswoman said. Woden Valley Community Council president Fiona Carrick welcomed the news, saying common sense had prevailed. "While the Woden Valley Community Council does not have a position on whether light rail should be be built or not, should it we built we would prefer it to be a direct alignment. The direct alignment will provide better travel times than the dogleg will provide," Ms Carrick said. Inner South Canberra Community Council chair Marea Fatseas said she could understand why the government came to that compromise, given the complexity of the Barton route and that she hoped to see a cost-benefit analysis for the route soon. She also urged government to start work on an integrated transport and land use plan for the Civic to Woden corridor sooner rather than later to avoid the stage one scenario where the light rail project is almost complete but there is still no final City and Gateway Urban Design Framework.

"With the rapid densification of the inner south comes the need also for better public transport and active travel options," Ms Fatseas said. ACT executive director for the Property Council of Australia Adina Cirson stands next to the State Circle, the "compromise" route for light rail stage two. Credit: Dion Georgopoulos ACT Property Council executive director Adina Cirson, who lobbied for a Capital Circle alignment, said developers who'd invested heavily in Woden would also welcome the alignment. "The Property Council believes stage two needs to be done as quickly as possible to provide certainty to developers in the Woden town centre, but also so a north-south public transport connection is in place as soon as possible," Ms Cirson said. "While we understand the importance of connecting Barton, we don't believe compromising the fastest way to Woden is the best way of doing that."Prime Minister Scott Morrison says he has gone one better than Labor's rules aimed at bringing an end to Australia's revolving door prime ministership, declaring that an elected Liberal leader will serve a full term.

Mr Morrison secured the endorsement of his party room at a late-night unscheduled meeting on Monday night for rules that state a Liberal prime minister in their first term cannot be removed unless there is a two-thirds majority of the party room for a change. The rules cannot be changed unless a two-thirds majority of the party room agrees.

Former prime ministers Tony Abbott and Malcolm Turnbull, and current Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen, Dominic Lorrimer

Mr Morrison, a beneficiary of Canberra's coup culture, said he had consulted John Howard, who had previously rejected copying Labor, and Mr Abbott but not Malcolm Turnbull about the changes which he said he had decided were needed some months ago. Monday's announcement follows a voter backlash against the Liberals in the polls since the change in August and the Liberals routing in the Victorian state election.

"They're sick of it and we're sick of it and it has to stop. That's why we've put this rule in place," the Prime Minister told reporters in Canberra on Monday night."Melbourne was in the grip of what is now widely known as the gangland wars," Mr Ashton said. "Over the preceding 12 months, numerous people had been murdered, some in very public locations, and high-profile criminals were vying for control of drug operations that were inflicting serious harm on the Victorian community. Police Commissioner Graham Ashton talks to the media on Monday. Credit:Fairfax "It was, accordingly, a desperate and dangerous time." Mr Ashton said he believed the police involved acted in good faith.

"They can be expected to have my continuing support," he said. Loading The role of Informer 3838 was revealed in a High Court decision on Monday, which blasted Victoria Police for its conduct in the gangland investigations. The government said the High Courts decision threw doubt on whether several convictions occurred fairly and in accordance with the law. "While these events took place many years ago, the Victorian public has a right to know that every part of the justice system acts fairly and lawfully at all times," Mr Andrews said.

He said the royal commission would probe how many convictions could be called into question because of how the police informer was mismanaged. "The integrity of the criminal justice system is paramount, and all people charged with crimes are entitled to a fair trial, no matter who they are," he said. The commission, to be given $7.5 million in funding, is to deliver an interim report by July 1 next year and conclude no later than next December. Mr Andrews said he received a detailed briefing about the matter on November 25, the day after Labor was re-elected.

Given that there is the prospect of some very well-known individuals walking free, we think its appropriate to have this highest and most formal type of inquiry we can have to give us the answers we need and the certainty that this could never ever happen again, he said. It is likely some of the royal commission will be heard in private to protect the safety of witnesses. Mr Andrews said he had confidence in Mr Ashton. The Premier said he was limited in what he could say, because some court suppression orders remain in effect and because the safety of at least one individual is at risk.

Hundreds of convictions at risk Informer 3838 claimed her information led to the convictions of hundreds of people. "There were a total of 386 people arrested and charged that I am specifically aware of based upon information I provided to Victoria Police, but there are probably more because as you would know, I did not always know the value or use of some of the intelligence that I was providing," she wrote in a letter to police command. Loading The convictions in question include Mokbel's, but particularly convictions obtained in one of Australia's largest ecstasy hauls, the infamous "tomato tins" drug case linked with the Calabrian mafia.

Federal police seized a container at Melbourne's docks in June 2007 filled with 4.4 tonnes of ecstasy hidden inside tomato tins shipped from Italy. Mokbel's shipping industry inside man, Rob Karam, a former horse racing identity, is serving more than 35 years jail for his role in the case. Karam's jail term is now in question, as well as that of Pasquale Barbaro, head of the drug syndicate. Why the defence lawyer became Informer 3838 Informer 3838 was registered as an informer in 2005 at the tail end of the gangland war.Latest News CBA hikes fixed rates for third time in six weeks Third rate rise in just six weeks for major lender as market comes to terms with RBA uncertainty

Brokers 'stronger than ever' as trend towards leaving the industry reverses Optimism high in channel going in 2022 as challenges of past year have forced brokers to revisit their careers

A regional bank has named its new head of broker distribution as part of an internal leadership shakeup that has also seen the creation of two new roles.

Adelaide Bank has confirmed that Amanda James, who was previously head of third party banking support, has been appointed head of broker distribution, effective 17 December.

Darren Kasehagen, the current head of distribution for Adelaide Bank will now take on James previous responsibilities in a new role as head of third party banking after Fons Caminiti took on the newly created role of senior manager for mortgage partners, in October. Cosi Lanzoni has been appointed as senior manager of strategic partners, also effective from 17 December 2018.

James said, Im delighted to be able to take up the opportunity to lead our mortgage broker distribution team and work more closely with our valued mortgage broker partners.

At Adelaide Bank, mortgage brokers are the core of our business and a healthy, vibrant and competitive broker industry is fundamental to ensuring a robust home loan market.

"I am keen to work closely together with our partners as we navigate through the present changing environment. As a bank, we are fully committed to the broker industry and have a number of improvements to the interactive process in train for brokers that I look forward to sharing in the coming months, she concluded.

Commenting on his new role, Kasehagen said, Our whole business relies on brokers and the valued relationships we have with brokers. Adelaide Bank is fully committed to growing in this industry.

Amanda has significant experience and a great understanding of the broker market, having been working in and around our broker offering for more than a decade. She is the perfect fit for the role, especially in the landscape of ongoing change currently upon us.

These new appointments will enable Adelaide Bank to further deepen our engagement and improve relationships with our brokers and partners to deliver an even better experience for customers, he concluded.Latest News CBA hikes fixed rates for third time in six weeks Third rate rise in just six weeks for major lender as market comes to terms with RBA uncertainty

Brokers 'stronger than ever' as trend towards leaving the industry reverses Optimism high in channel going in 2022 as challenges of past year have forced brokers to revisit their careers

A non-bank lender has become the first in Australia to issue a Green Bond linked to residential mortgages.

Pepper Money announced it completed the issuance with separate Eur110million and A$75million tranches, totalling $254m, of residential mortgage backed securities backed by energy-efficient homes.

Mortgages included in the Green Bond tranches were over residential properties that complied with Peppers definition of green mortgages as set out in its Green Bond Framework.

The definition is linked to compliance with energy-efficiency ratings issued by state and territory governments in Australia.

The Green Bond issuance was part of a $1.25b issue of Australian mortgage-backed bonds completed on Friday, Peppers largest-ever securitisation transaction.

Pepper Group has completed over $4.4b in public securitisations in 2018, comprising both prime and nonconforming issuances.

According to Pepper, the Green Bond tranche attracted strong interest from both onshore and offshore institutional investors seeking high-quality RMBS assets that met their guidelines or mandates for socially responsible or sustainable investment.

Pepper Groups Australian CEO, Mario Rehayem, said the success of this months green bond issuance demonstrated the strength of international investor appetite for high-quality RMBS assets from Australia.

He added, Some of the investors in the issue were making their first investment in Australia, with a number of investors holding an ESG or SRI mandate.

Looking ahead, we see strong potential for securitising green mortgages that are backed by energy-efficient homes.

Most homes today are designed for a reduced carbon footprint and we sense a growing appetite among borrowers for loan products aligned to these same principles. Green loans will in turn support our future issuance of green bonds, which are an expanding asset class globally.

Pepper continues to support the communities in which we operate by extending home loans to more Australians. The innovative green mortgage scheme we have planned will help Australians achieve both a financial goal and an energy-efficient footprint.

The Green Bond issuance is the first step toward Peppers launch next year of a Green Mortgage scheme, under which it will offer incentives to borrowers taking out loans secured by homes that meet the energy-efficiency criteria in its Green Bond Framework.

Pepper expects to announce details of its Green Mortgage scheme early next year.

Pepper plans to incorporate Green Bond tranches in all future Pepper Residential Securities transactions (Peppers RMBS program).Sign up for our PoliticsNY newsletter for the latest coverage and to stay informed about the 2021 elections in your district and across NYC

Shirley, youre kidding!

Officials on Friday fell over themselves to honor the trail-blazing Brooklyn pol, former Rep. Shirley Chisholm, on her birthday, with two city leaders announcing as many monuments to the nations first black congresswoman on the same day.

The citys First Lady, Chirlane McCray, got a head start on Nov. 30  what would have been Chisholms 94th birthday  making an early morning announcement that a $1-million likeness of the late legislator, who died in 2005, would grace the Parkside Avenue entrance of Brooklyns Backyard sometime in 2020 as part of a mayoral initiative to memorialize New York Citys most distinguished dames.

Congresswoman Shirley Chisholms legacy of leadership and activism has paved the way for thousands of women to seek public office, said McCray. She is exactly the kind of New York woman whose contributions should be honored with representation in our public spaces.

But Crown Heights Councilman Robert Cornegy Jr., not to be outdone, later that day announced he will unveil a scale model of another Chisholm statue at the Brooklyn Childrens Museum on Dec. 3rd. The actual likeness will be installed at nearby Brower Park next year, as part of Cornegys own initiative to honor storied people of color hailing from the 36th Council District, which also includes parts of Bedford-Stuyvesant.

And in announcing his own statue, the councilman took the opportunity to talk smack about Mayor DeBlasios policy of removing city monuments to controversial figures  such as a bust of controversial, early gynecologist J. Marion Sims, which officials shipped from its long-time Central Park home to Green-Wood Cemetery earlier this year  by arguing that leaders should focus on honoring worthy residents, not removing tributes to whom some consider less-deserving.

Its more important to promote the contributions of a wider array of people and cultures, than to tear down statues commemorating those we may not like, Cornegy said. My children benefit from the entire wealth of this countrys history  the good, bad, and indifferent.

Of course, Gov. Cuomo beat everybody to the punch in September, when he announced $20 million in funding for the new Shirely Chisholm State Park coming to East New York as part of his Vital Brooklyn wellness initiative, designs for which should be completed by 2021.

And the former Congresswoman isnt lacking for honors in her home borough, which is already home to such tributes as Fort Greenes Shirley A. Chisholm State Office Building, Shirley Chisholm Circle in Brower Park, Shirely Chisholm Campus in Canarsie, and the forthcoming Shirley A. Chisholm Community Center in East Flatbush.Sign up for our PoliticsNY newsletter for the latest coverage and to stay informed about the 2021 elections in your district and across NYC

Cops are hunting for the hit-and-run driver who killed an oldster after smashing into him on E. 28th Street in Sheepshead Bay on Saturday.

The motorist behind the wheel of a Toyota van fatally struck 65-year-old Iosif Morgenshteyn as the victim changed his cars front drivers side tire on E. 28th Street near Shore Parkway just before 6:30 pm, and then drove away, according to a Police Department spokeswoman.

Officers from the 61st Precinct then rushed to the scene with paramedics, who brought Morgenshteyn, a Staten Islander, to Coney Island Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead, authorities said.

Police later found the white 2014 Toyota Sienna with Pennsylvania plates unoccupied near Emmons Avenue and Bragg Street and took it into custody, according to the spokeswoman, who said authorities are also searching for passengers who were inside the vehicle at the time of the deadly crash as part of the ongoing investigation.Just a few years ago, Microsoft was seen as a lumbering has-been of the technology world. It was big and still quite profitable, but the company had lost its luster, failing or trailing in the markets of the future like mobile, search, online advertising and cloud computing. Its stock price languished, inching up 3 percent in the decade through the end of 2012. Its a very different story today. Microsoft is running neck and neck with Apple for the title of the worlds most valuable company, both worth about $850 billion, thanks to a stock price that has climbed 30 ...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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As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed.



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Digital EditorThe regulator has approved transfer of 100 per cent shareholding in Ovako to Sanyo Steel

Competition watchdog has cleared Japan-based & Sumitomo Metal Corporation's acquisition of 51 per cent shareholding in Sanyo Steel.

Besides, the regulator has approved transfer of 100 per cent shareholding in Ovako to Sanyo Steel.

According to the CCI, is based in Tokyo and is engaged in the business of manufacture and sales of tubes and pipes and auto parts in India and its presence in manufacture of these steel products is limited in the country.

In a tweet on Monday, the said it "approves acquisition of 51 per cent shareholding in Sanyo Special Steel by & Sumitomo Metal; and transfer of 100 per cent shareholding in Ovako AB to Sanyo."

Sanyo manufactures special steel and in India it has presence through its two subsidiaries namely, Sanyo Special Steel India and Mahindra Sanyo Special Steel Pvt Ltd.

Mahindra Sanyo is a joint venture between Sanyo (51 per cent) (29 per cent) and Mitsui and Co Ltd (20 Per cent).

ALSO READ: India will be world's fastest-growing steel market: Nippon Steel Executive

In June, Nippon Steel had announced acquisition of Sweden-based steel maker Ovako and made it a wholly-owned subsidiary.

Deals beyond a certain threshold are required to get clearance from the (CCI).GlaxoSmithKline has agreed to buy US cancer specialist Tesaro for $5.1 billion, marking a major biotech investment by Chief Executive Emma Walmsley as she seeks to rebuild the group's pharmaceuticals business. GSK has lagged rivals in recent years in producing multibillion-dollar blockbusters and it largely sat out a spate of dealmaking by rival drugmakers under previous CEO Andrew Witty. That is a situation Walmsley now wants to change. Britain's biggest drugmaker is paying $75 a share for the business, an 110 percent premium to the 30-day average price. It is also ...Multinational consumer goods major Unilever on Monday confirmed it was acquiring and other health food products in an all-equity merger of Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) with publicly listed GSK consumer Healthcare India.

The merger of HUL with GSK Consumer Health will be on the basis of an exchange ratio of 4.39 HUL shares for each GSK Consumer Health share. The deal also includes the acquisition of certain other commercial operations and assets outside of India.

HUL CMD Sanjiv Mehta said in a statement, With this proposed strategic merger with GSK Consumer Healthcare India, we will be expanding our portfolio with great brands into a new category catering to the nutritional needs of our consumers. Unilever announced the acquisition of an 82 per cent stake in GSK Bangladesh as well. It will also buy commercial operations of GSK in 20 other predominantly Asian markets and intellectual property rights for 470 million euros in cash utilising HUL equity to fund Indian component of the transaction.HUL CMD Sanjiv Mehta said in a statement, With this proposed strategic merger with GSK Consumer Healthcare India, we will be expanding our portfolio with great brands into a new category catering to the nutritional needs of our consumers. The turnover of our F&R (food and refreshment) business will exceed Rs 100 billion and we will become one of the largest F&R businesses in the country.

ALSO READ: HUL hits record high, GSK Consumer gains 7% after board approves merger Unilever's share of the total GSK Consumer Health deal consideration is 3.3 billion euros, payable using cash, and shares in its listed India subsidiary HUL. The deal is aligned with Unilever's stated strategy of increasing its presence in health-food categories and in high-growth emerging markets, and it expects substantial synergies between the merging entities.

Cost synergies are expected from a combination of supply chain efficiencies and operational improvements and implies a total equity value of Rs 317 billion for 100 per cent of GSK Consumer Health.

The deal is expected to be completed in 12 months. Hindustan Unilever CEO Sanjiv Mehta said the turnover of foods & refreshments business would now exceed Rs 100 billion.

The total consideration for the deal is 4.6 billion euros, of which Unilever's implied contribution is through cash and the issue of shares in HUL. Following the issue of new HUL shares, Unilever's holding in HUL will be diluted from 67.2 per cent to 61.9 per cent.

The transaction will be EPS-accretive (earnings per share-accretive), on an underlying basis, immediately after completion.Along the banks of the Godavari River, near the city of Rajahmundry in the eastern India state of Andhra Pradesh, stands a museum built in the memory of Sir Arthur Thomas Cotton. As commissioner for irrigation there in the 1840s, Cotton brought water to Andhras parched lands, turning them into Indias rice bowl. An engineer in the East India Companys army, he did this by restoring and expanding an ancient network of dams and canals along Indias great southern rivers: the Kaveri, the Krishna and the Godavari. Motivated by a belief that science would pave ...The government is likely to announce this week the routes under the international version of air connectivity scheme, with flights expected to operate from Guwahati, a senior official said.

The international version of the scheme, also known as UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik), seeks to provide air connectivity at affordable costs to select overseas destinations.

Proposals for selection of airlines under the International Air Connectivity Scheme -- IACS UDAN -- were invited in October.

An official at the Civil Ministry said that international routes under UDAN are likely to be announced in the first week of December and to begin with, the flights would be from

Bids for the international version of UDAN were invited by the (AAI) on behalf of the Civil Ministry and the government.



ALSO READ: Air Odisha loses contract to fly in 3 states for poor show in UDAN scheme

According to the draft IACS, the scheme is to be made operational only for those states that demonstrate their commitment to implement and provide the requisite support for promoting operations.

Last year, the government offered to provide Rs 1 billion as viability gap funding towards extension of the UDAN for international air connectivity from the state capital



ALSO READ: Govt invites bids from operators for third round of Udan scheme auctions

An International Air Connectivity Fund (IACF) for providing financial support to airlines participating in the scheme will be set up.

The UDAN, announced in October 2016, seeks to connect unserved and under-served airports in the country as well as make flying affordable by capping fares at Rs 2,500 for a one-hour flight.



The ministry has awarded more than 450 domestic routes under the UDAN to various operators in two rounds since March 2017. It is also working on the third round of the scheme.

According to the official cited earlier, routes to be awarded under UDAN 3 are likely to be finalised by the end of this month.Soon after police personnel drove up in a convoy of vehicles that Friday, August 31, 2018, Adani ke log (Adanis people) arrived with earthmoving equipment, recounted Adivasi (tribal) and Dalit villagers in Mali, in this lush eastern corner of Jharkhand. There were eight to 10 police for each of us villagers, said Sita Murmu, a wiry farmer in her 40s from the Santal community, one of Indias largest indigenous tribes, describing the attempt that followed to take over the villagers farmlands, abutting a clutch of mud and brick ...

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Government is planning to give a 'statutory backing' on look-out circulars because without backing, such a notice cannot be issued against an economic offender out on bail, said a report by the Economic Times. The leading daily also said that the government is planning to amend the look-out circular to alert or verification.

The government will take such a step to arm investigative agencies to keep tabs on the accused who may flee the country. With this 'statutory backing' in place, the investigative agency can formally keep an eye on the movements of the accused and ...Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday alleged the caretaker Telangana government is betraying the country and insulting the Constitution architect B R Ambedkar by proposing religion-based reservation with 12 per cent quota for Muslim minority while stealing the rights of Dalits.

Addressing an election rally, he said that great leaders of the country, while framing the Constitution, had decided against religion-based reservation at any cost in the interest of the nation's unity and integrity and for its bright future.

Targeting caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Modi said he was surprised that "these power-hungry people, to save their chair for their family, resorted to such a step".

"Minority ko aarakshan dene ka khel, yeh desh ke saath gaddari hai ki nahi? (Playing this game of promising quota to the minorities, is it not a betrayal to the nation)?" he said and wondered how the promise will be met as the current Supreme Court's order does not permit it.

"Is it not an insult to the Constitution Assembly, is not an insult to B R Ambedkar...?" Modi asked.

"The Supreme Court has put a ceiling (of 50 per cent). You can't go beyond that. Does it mean that you would steal from the rights (quota) of Dalits, STs, and OBCs?," he asked.

"To save your chair, you are conspiring to steal their rights (Dalits, STs and OBCs) from the back door?. Will you allow that sin to happen...should there be religion-based reservation?," he asked the crowd.



Read our full coverage on Telangana Assembly elections 2018

Referring to president Rahul Gandhi's charge that the TRS is a "B" team of the BJP, Modi said it is in fact the KCR-led party which is the "B" team of the

The prime minister pointed out that before the Karnataka Assembly polls, "Naamdar (Gandhi) had described the JDS as 'B' team of the BJP but after the results were declared, they joined hands and formed the government."



"He (Gandhi) speaks so many lies," Modi said, alleging that the was already engaged in "back door talks to somehow stop the BJP (from coming to power in Telangana)".

Modi said that four of the five parties in contention in the Telangana elections -- the TRS, Congress, TDP and AIMIM -- perpetuate dynastic and family rule.

"They (these four parties) are becoming a threat to democracy," he said, adding that "there is only one party...BJP, which is democratic".

He said many people have sacrificed their lives during the struggle for creation of a separate state of Telangana.

Targeting the TRS chief, Modi said "nobody has given one family the right to loot".

ALSO READ: Why this temple town wants to come clean in Telangana elections

The prime minister also recalled that Rao was earlier in the Youth Congress and also had his first "apprenticeship" in the TDP, noting that he was once with that party.

He said that Rao was also a minister in the UPA-I.

TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi were his "Gurus", he said.

Slamming the electoral alliance between the Congress and the TDP, Modi said that NTR founded the latter in the name of "Telugu pride" and fought against the Congress. He claimed that the two parties have come together "only for the sake of power".

The TDP has also become a dynastic and family-ruled party, he said.

Modi said that the Congress and the TRS are "two sides of the same coin".

He said about Rs 300 billion worth of centrally-funded projects and Rs 80 billion worth railway projects are currently being implemented in the state.

The prime minister slammed Rao over his government's decision not to join the PMJAY health insurance scheme.

"He (KCR) says he does not want Ayushman Bharat scheme. If there is a government creating such hurdles, how can there be your (people's) welfare?"



Over 12.5 million families have been handed over keys of their house so far during the NDA regime, Modi said.

Only 5,000 houses were built in Telangana. "When the central government is providing funds, why is the state government not taking it up"? he asked.Yes Bank Ltd, India's fifth largest private-sector lender by assets, has had a rough ride since the country's central bank trimmed its chief executive officer's (CEO) term in September. The tiff with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has caused several top executives to exit Yes Bank's board, and prompted rating cuts. The move by the RBI, which has already clamped down on the financial sector due to rising levels of bad loans, has also hit Yes Bank's share price hard. The developments since Sept. 19 have knocked off about 345 billion rupees ($4.95 billion) ...Apple Inc. plans to hold off until at least 2020 before offering an iPhone that can connect to the next generation of high-speed phone services coming next year, according to people familiar with its plans.

The delay may make it easier for rivals like Samsung Electronics Co. to win over consumers to phones that connect to 5G networks, which will provide a leap forward in mobile data speeds when they are introduced in 2019. ALSO READ: Tech Mahindra looks at upcoming global 5G rollouts as a big opportunity As with 3G and 4G, the two previous generations of mobile ...China's factory activity grew slightly in November, a private survey showed, though new export orders extended their decline in a further blow to the sector already hurt by the Sino-U.S. trade frictions. The Caixin/Markit Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for November, released on Monday, ticked up to 50.2 from 50.1 in October. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast a reading of 50.0, the level that separates expansion from contraction. Domestic orders have been losing momentum in recent quarters as the world's second-largest economy slows. Overall, a ...China will roll back tariffs on US-made cars, US President said, unveiling another potential breakthrough in a truce that cheered stock markets on Monday.

Trump's surprise announcement late Sunday came a day after he and Chinese President agreed to suspend any new tariffs and give negotiators 90 days to strike a deal.

The ceasefire follows months of tensions and tit-for-tat custom duties on hundreds of billions of dollars worth of goods that raised fears of an escalation harmful to the global economy.

Both sides gained from hitting the pause button, with Trump securing a Chinese pledge to import more US goods and Xi staving off the further pressure that higher tariffs would place on his country's slowing economy.

Trump tweeted that China had agreed to "reduce and remove" tariffs of 40 per cent on cars, though Beijing has yet to confirm the move.

China's foreign ministry declined to confirm Trump's assertion on Monday, instead saying: "On December 1 President Xi and President Trump reached an important consensus on trade issues."



"They agreed to hold off on the imposition of new tariffs and came up with a series of constructive arrangements on how to address the existing differences and problems," spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters.

Trump's tweet did not explain which tariffs would be reduced or removed, or when China would act.

William Zarit, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, said the car announcement, if confirmed, was "certainly movement in the right direction, and hopefully a sign of more things to come".

Beijing had reduced auto import duties from 25 per cent to 15 per cent in July.

But it later added a 25 per cent tariff on US-made cars as trade tensions soared, bringing them to 40 per cent.

Many US automakers build their cars in China for the local market, but the tariff hikes have hit sales and profits for some companies including electric car-maker Tesla and US-made models from BMW and Ford.

One expert said China would have to address US complaints about China's forced transfer of intellectual property rights -- a major issue at the core of a US "301" trade investigation -- for Washington to drop its tariffs.

"Any action which increases market access or better ensures a level playing field will certainly be welcomed and could lead to continued discussions," Steven Okun, a Singapore-based senior advisor at strategic advisory firm McLarty Associates, told AFP.

"Still, one must presume that as the existing and proposed tariffs are to spur China to address the US' IPR concerns, only action directly related to that would ultimately impact the 301 tariffs," he said.

The said Saturday the two sides would "immediately" begin talks on "structural changes" affecting forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection and cyber theft.

China reaffirmed that the agreement held "great significance".

"It prevents the economic and trade frictions from expanding and opens new prospects for cooperation," Geng said.

Asian and European stock markets jumped on Monday, with Hong Kong and Shanghai closing sharply higher and the yuan strengthening after months of trade-war turbulence.

After being spooked by the conflict, investors returned to buying following the long-awaited meeting between the two presidents.

But observers warned there were still major issues that needed to be resolved, including access for US companies and intellectual property protection.

"In order to really make a difference, China needs to enact more sweeping comprehensive reforms in the short term," Zarit said.

China's state-run media cautiously welcomed the Buenos Aires agreement.

The nationalist Global Times tabloid called it a "momentous step forward" that brings "huge potential for fair trade".

"It is hoped that the trade teams from both countries will reach as many practical agreements as possible and as quickly as possible to hasten China-US cooperation," the daily said.

Under the agreement, Trump is shelving a plan to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10 per cent to 25 percent from the start of next year -- but the hike will kick in if negotiators fail to reach a final deal within 90 days.

The United States has imposed 25 per cent tariffs on another $50 billion worth of Chinese imports and they remain in effect despite the truce.

China has hit back with similar tariffs on $110 billion worth of goods made in the US.

"No magic wand has been waved to make the differences between the United States and China vanish overnight," the state-run China Daily warned.

"Given the complexity of interactions between the two economies, the rest of the world will still be holding its collective breath while it waits to see if the series of constructive plans that are in the works can put bilateral relations back on a cooperative rather than confrontational track," it said.Many delegates from the world's 20 largest economies arrived at a summit in Argentina this week determined to clinch an agreement to reform the global trade system, pushed to a breaking point by tensions between the United States and China. To do so, they had to bow to U.S. and Chinese demands to drop some of the pledges that have become hallmarks of the Group of 20 industrialized nations, which represents two-thirds of the global population. But they left with a communique committing for the first time to reform the dysfunctional World Trade Organization (WTO), the body ...Kinder. Gentler. Those were words that George HW Bush famously used in his inaugural speech, when he was sworn in as the 41st president of the United States. I say famously not because the verbiage was particularly visionary, but because it evolved, over the years, into a shorthand for his philosophy, for his character, for what the Republican Party needed to be and for what he wanted to make it. The words fell into a passage of the speech that, in relation to the American carnage of the current presidents oratory, seems both quaint and exotic ...Iran has vowed to continue to carry out missile tests despite sanctions imposed by the (US).

Al Jazeera quoted General Abolfazl Shekarchi, a senior spokesman for Iran's armed forces as saying, "Missile tests are carried out for defence and the country's deterrence and we will continue this."

Shekarchi made the remarks after Washington D.C. accused of carrying out a new missile test. However, he neither confirmed nor denied testing of the missile.

On Saturday, US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo condemned Iran's testing of a medium-range ballistic missile capable of carrying multiple warheads as a violation of the agreement on Tehran's nuclear programme.

On November 5, the Trump administration had imposed the "toughest-ever" sanctions on Iran's banking, energy and shipping industries, with an aim to alter the "behaviour" of the country's regime.Sahia got married when she was 15 years old  and saw her husband for the first time on their wedding day. Her sense of humour is apparent as soon as we meet: He is a good husband.

I was lucky, but at the same time he must have exaggerated his status a bit to my parents, she says, laughing. His market value was put up slightly over his actual value. She has agreed to talk to us about the ways climate change and environmental stress are influencing peoples lives. She says that after their wedding, she moved in with her husband and ...Owen Diaz had seen swastikas in the bathrooms at Teslas electric-car plant, and he had tried to ignore racist taunts around the factory. You hear, Hey, boy, come here, N-i-g-g-e-r, you know, all this, said Mr. Diaz, who is African-American. Then, a few hours into his shift running the elevators, he noticed a drawing on a bale of cardboard. It had an oversize mouth, big eyes and a bone stuck in the patch of hair scribbled over a long face, with Booo written underneath. On that winter night in the factory, when, he ...AMRI Hospitals, one of the fastest growing chains of private hospitals in Eastern India, is a name to reckon with when talking about endowments and accomplishments in India's medical sector.

Retaining its position among 'Best Private Hospital' in Kolkata, AMRI took it up by a notch by clinching the second rank as the 'Best Hospital' in Eastern region, besides also ranking 2nd in the 'Best Private Hospital' category also in Bhubaneswar.

AMRI Hospital has been ranked as one of the best private hospitals in The Week-Hansa Survey 2018. With this, the hospital has established yet another benchmark of excellence in its continuous growth and success.

Numerous other awards and accolades bestowed upon AMRI Hospitals hold a testimony to its commitment to medical care and efforts to widen the horizons of the country's healthcare sector.

The group has its super specialty tertiary care units located at Dhakuria, Mukundapur, Salt Lake, and Bhubaneswar, along with a state-of-the-art day care facility - AMRI Medical Centre - at Southern Avenue in Kolkata. "This year has secured great scope for our expansion in the medical industry. Progressing with the same pace, we expect a lot in the years to come," read an official statement by AMRI Hospital, Kolkata.

All the units of AMRI Hospitals are well-equipped with advanced facilities to provide comprehensive solutions for critical and complex clinical situations. They have special multi-disciplinary teams of highly experienced paediatricians, neonatologists, surgeons, therapists and nurses.

The hospital also arranges donations and sanction discounts for the economically less privileged patients through AMRI Patient Welfare Cell. It is always on a lookout for innovations in the field of medicine.

In its attempt to bring about a difference in the field of medicine and science, the hospital is working on various research projects. The year 2018 has proved to be highly crucial in terms of the new achievements by the hospital.

As a robust attempt to bolster the healthcare segment in Odisha, AMRI Hospital, Bhubaneswar, launched a Liver Treatment OPD Clinic in association with Medanta - The Medicity, a leading Gurugram-based multi-specialty medical institute.

Along with various healthcare initiatives, AMRI Hospital organised several social media awareness campaigns for restraining the widening grip of perilous diseases like heart attacks, polio, breast cancer dengue, etc. Certainly, with these robust efforts and laudable achievements, AMRI Hospital stands committed to offer comprehensive tertiary medical care in Eastern India.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)After his foot in mouth comment against the Chief Minister, Punjab cabinet minister Navjot Singh Sidhu took two steps backwards by calling Captain Amrinder Singh a fatherly figure while promising to settle the issue with the senior leader personally.

On November 30, while addressing the media in Hyderabad Sidhu said: "My captain is Congress president Rahul Gandhi, he sent me everywhere (in reference to his Pakistan visit for Kartarpur Corridor groundbreaking ceremony). Rahul is also the captain of our captain (Punjab Chief Minister)."

Realising the gravity of the unsavoury remark, Sidhu said: "You don't want to wash dirty linen in public. He (Capt Amarinder Singh) is a fatherly figure, I love him, I respect him; I will sort it out myself." When asked if he would apologise to the Chief Minister, Sidhu nodded in negative.

Sidhu's response comes close on the heels of two ministers and one Member of Parliament of the state demanding his resignation following his remark against the Chief Minister.

The minister's had derided Captain Amarinder Singh in a tactless manner when reporters asked about his visit to Pakistan despite the Chief Minister disapproving it.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)At least two police personnel got injured after a scuffle broke out between police personnel and locals in the Hakima Gate area in Punjab's Amritsar on Sunday night.

The scuffle broke out after a man, Bittu Shah, arrested in possession of narcotics, allegedly died in police custody.

The family members of Bittu claimed that he died in the police custody and hence they have demanded strict action against the accused.

"We have started investigating the matter. A doctors board will be made which will do a post-mortem of the deceased. The culprit won't be spared," said Superintendent of Police J. S. Walia.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In a joint operation, the Chirang Army of Red Horns Division, Assam Rifles and Jairampur Police have arrested nine cadres of the Democratic Front of Boroland (Songbijit) {NDFB (S)} on Sunday while they were returning to Assam after completing their training in Myanmar.

The security forces also recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition from their possession.

The group was busted while infiltrating into India from their training camp in Myanmar. All nine cadres were nabbed in an ambush on their infiltration route.

The Operation also resulted in the recovery of arms, ammunition including one AK 47 and one AK 56. The cadres along with seized items were handed over to police.

The arrested NDFB (S) cadres include Sulekha Brahma, Sumuriya Narzary, Rajesh Basumatry, Gaodang Mochahary, Rita Swrgary, Rotjona Narzary, Mani Ram Basumatary, Dillp Narzary and Binaram Narzary.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Kim Kardashian West, who returned to Paris two years after being robbed here, said that it was a nerve-cracking experience, but she chose to ignore the negative thoughts.

In October 2016, the beauty mogul was robbed at gunpoint in her hotel room by five men who were dressed as police and stole USD 6.1 million worth of jewellery. She was in the City of Lights to attend a fashion show.

During the recent episode of 'Keeping Up With The Kardashians', Kim, in conversation with her sisters Kourtney Kardashian and Khloe Kardashian explained that she planned to visit Paris for husband Kanye West.

Kanye planned to attend the Louis Vuitton fashion show for his long time friend from Chicago, Virgil Abloh. While the rapper wanted to be there for his "brother," he understood that Kim might have had reservations about going with him.

"I don't wanna put any pressure on you to go to Paris, I know that was really hard the last time you were in Paris," the 'I Love It' rapper told his wife. "Just the world would just really love to see you there.be surprised to see you there and love to see you there. There's no pressure."

Nonetheless, Kimye's presence in Paris made a splash as they were swarmed by paparazzi and fans while heading for the Louis Vuitton show.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Baloch Republican Party (BRP) held protests in London and Germany against the enforced disappearances in Balochistan.

In a statement, the Baloch Republican Party central spokesman, Sher Mohammad Bugti said that the protest in Germany's Chemnitz city was aimed at highlighting the escalation of the military operation and increased enforced disappearances in Balochistan in front of the entire

"Enforced disappearances are once more escalating. College, university Baloch students and those who protest these inhuman atrocities are a specific target of this practice by the armed forces of Pakistan" he added.

Revealing the incidents of disappearances, Bugti stated, "Most recently, Jiyand Baloch, his brother and father were abducted. A similar incident was reported in Kech district, where a student named Dolat Khan was abducted while traveling back home in Gorkop, Kech."

Bugti also said that similar demonstration was held at 10 Downing Street in London to protest against the enforced disappearances in Balochistan and stand in solidarity with the families of the victims. "BRP will continue to raise voice against the illegal abductions in Balochistan at every forum," he added.

Addressing the demonstration in Germany, BRP Germany Chapter president Jawad Mohammad Baloch said that the minorities were being targeted not only in Balochistan but across Pakistan. Meanwhile, Baloch people had been facing Pakistan army's wrath from the last 70 years, he added.

"Thousands of Baloch people detained by Pakistan army in the recent escalation in abductions in Balochistan," Baloch stated.

He further said that BRP will raise awareness about the plight of Baloch people including increased abductions, military operations and other atrocities by the state army at every possible forum.

While addressing the demonstration in London the central leader of BRP, Mansoor Baloch said that human rights situation was worsening in Balochistan.

"Our mothers and sisters have come out in the Quetta Press Club in this cold weather for their abducted loved ones. Some of them have been abducted years back but their families are still kept unaware of their crimes," he asserted.

"There is no law in Balochistan, the State agencies do as they please. They abducted whoever they want, ask for ransom or kill and dump them. Thousands of Baloch people have been victimised by this practice of the state agencies," Baloch revealed.

In a statement, BRP appealed that the human right organisations and the United Nations (UN) should intervene in the case of enforced disappearances in Balochistan and act according to legal laws to bring back those who have been illegally abducted and detained.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Singapore, Dec 3 (ANI): In February this year, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared the world-famous island resort of Boracay a "cesspool". True to his all-action image, shortly after his comments, Duterte ordered the resort island closed for tourists from April 26.

The environment ministry said back then that 195 businesses and 4,000 residential customers were not connected to sewer lines. Many of them were dumping their untreated waste straight into the surrounding turquoise waters. This is on-top of various building-code violations.

Actually, it was worse. In May, out of a total of 1,552 establishments inspected, it was found that only 38 were in compliance with government regulations. Out of this, 500 were hotels.

Tourists and the hospitality industry alike complained about the sudden and drastic action. Others were worried about how this would affect the livelihoods of about 28,000 people employed by the tourism-related services and construction industries. This is not counting the numerous unlicensed vendors and service providers who depended on tourists for income. 2017 tourism receipts in Boracay totalled US$1 billion a year and it had over 2 million visitors.

The shut-down was enforced by suspending flights, ferry services, making beaches off-limits, closing hotels and other businesses that were not complying with environmental, health and safety guidelines.

Boracay is a 10 square kilometres tropical paradise island renowned for its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters as well as its beach party culture. It has won many awards from travel publications for its idyllic serenity juxtaposed against an electrifying nightlife.

As promised, six months after its closure, beginning October 26, a small number of visitors were allowed back onto the island to enjoy its newly restored beaches and water.This number would gradually be increased.

In order to ensure sustainability and preservation of the natural beauty of this stunning island,new measures were introduced by the government. Among them is a limit of no more than 19,000 visitors at any one time. Visitors are also only allowed to book accommodation with accredited hotels. Smoking, drinking, eating and hawking will also be prohibited on the beaches, so visitors are able to relax and enjoy a quiet day in a clean, litter-free environment. Another sustainability measure is the banning of open fires and the use of kerosene and gas lamps.It looks like there will be no more fire dancing and wild partying on the beaches.

As of November 26, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced that they have accredited a total of 243 hotels with a total of 9,248 rooms. Prior to the reopening, only 25 accommodations with 2,063 rooms were accredited.

Tourism accounts for 10 per cent of GDP in the Philippines. Under the National Tourism Development Plan, the government is targeting 12 million inbound visitors in 2022. The number of foreign visitors is projected to reach 7.1 million this year.

Tourism stakeholders in the Philippines have always been keen to increase arrivals from India, saying it's a promising market with huge growth potential and can contribute significantly to country's tourism sector in years to come.

Indians form only the 12th largest group of visitors to the Philippines. The top 3 visitors are from South Korea, China and the United States, respectively. The Chinese are the fastest growing group of visitors with a growth rate of 30-40 per cent in the last two years. At this rate, it will overtake South Korea within 3 years.

Despite the lack of direct air connections between India and Philippines, Indians represent the second fastest growing group ofarrivals with an annual growth rate of around 15-18 per cent in the last two years, albeit with a low base compared with the Chinese. China is projected to have 1.3 million visitors in 2018 whereas India 125,000.

The most common way of getting to the Philippines is to make a transit stop in Singapore. To boost arrivals to the Philippines, in December 2017, the DOT signed a one-year partnership with Singapore Airlines (SIA) to implement joint marketing activities to promote the Philippines to the Indian market. Activities included the use of various marketing platforms such as social media, familiarisation tours and roadshows.

The DOT added that SIA and its sister company, SilkAir, also agreed to bring tourists not only to Manila but also to secondary destinations, in keeping with Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon T. Teo's policy of encouraging tourists to visit key destinations outside Metro Manila.

Although direct flights between major cities in India and the Philippines were expected by the end of this year, this has not materialised. At the moment Indians require a visa to enter the Philippines. However, since 2015 Indian nationals who already have visas from the United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, Singapore, UK and the Schengen area (for Europe) can apply for a visa-on-arrival for an initial stay of 14 days. The DOT continues to appeal to the Department of Justice to grant visa-on-arrival privilege to all Indian tourists without exception.

Boracay is but one of several exciting destinations in the Philippines. The other popular places worth considering a visit are Palawan, Cebu, Luzon and capital city Manila.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)United States President Donald Trump has announced that China has agreed to "reduce and remove" tariffs, which currently stand at 40 per cent, on US-made cars that are exported to China.

"China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%," Trump tweeted on Monday.

Trump made the announcement after he met his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the G-20 Summit in Argentina on Saturday.

Both the leaders agreed to halt the escalating trade war between the nations by agreeing to a temporary truce during their dinner on the G-20's sidelines.

Trump agreed to not raise the current 10 per cent tariffs on the USD 200 billion worth of Chinese goods to 25 per cent following a two-and-a-half hour discussion with Xi in Argentina, CNN quoted White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders as saying.

December 1 was the original deadline for the Trump Administration to go ahead with the plans. However, Trump said the tariffs would not be hiked "at this time."

On the other hand, China agreed to purchase "very substantial" amounts of agriculture, energy and other goods in order to restore trade balances.

The meeting came as a thaw in straining ties between the nations due to an escalating trade war that was seen in the last few months.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Congress councillor got into a heated argument with a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP on Sunday after he allegedly referred to Rahul Gandhi as Pappu (colloquial Hindi word for dumb kid).

Sita Damor, the Banswara councillor from the Congress party, confronted BJP MP Devajibhai publicly after he reportedly called the Congress party president 'Pappu' during a public interaction at a locality in Rajasthan's Banswara.

In an amateur video, which went viral, Damor can be heard shouting at Devajibhai, asking him to apologise for his remark.

Speaking about the confrontation, Damor said, "There was a political meeting going on and I was also in the locality. There was a BJP MP who said 'Pappu ko bulao, Pappu gaddhe bharega' (call Pappu, he will fill up the potholes)."

The councillor, however, clarified that the BJP leader "later apologised before leaving the place."

This is not the first time when the Congress president has been called a name. In December last year, a BJP leader and then Chhattisgarh cabinet minister Brijmohan referred to him as Pappu, adding that the Congress leader would take time to be upgraded.

In June 2017, Gandhi's own party's district president of Meerut, Vinay Pradhan, was sacked from all posts for addressing him, then the party's vice-president as "Pappu" on a party's local WhatsApp group.

"You may call me Pappu, but I don't hate you," Gandhi had said during the no-confidence motion debate in the parliament in July, looking directly at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and then walking across the benches to hug him.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who arrived in Washington D.C. on Sunday for a five-day visit, will hold a bilateral meeting with United States Secretary of Defence James N Mattis at Pentagon on Monday.

She is also scheduled to participate in the wreath-laying ceremony at Cemetery before the meeting.

"@DefenceMinIndia arrives in Washington DC for a 5 day visit. Meets officials, visits Museums of Natural History, Gallery of Art, Air & Space. @nsitharamanoffc will be laying wreath at Cemetery b4 Bilateral meeting with Secy of Def James N Mattis at Pentagon on Day 2," Ministry of Defence tweeted.

On the first day of her visit, Sitharaman met with officials and visited the Museum of Natural History, Gallery of Art, Air, and Space.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Students in France on Monday blocked the entrances of over 100 schools across the nation to protest against reform.

Students showed their support for the 'yellow vest' protests which have brought the country to a standstill, with the President Emmanuel Macron-led government mulling the imposition of an emergency.

Quoting local media, Sputnik reported that the student protests turned violent in Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes region, leading to the students throwing objects at law enforcement officials. The police responded by using tear gas against the protestors to contain the situation.

Student protests have also erupted in regions like Bourgogne-Franche-Comte, Centre-Val de Loire and Corsica, and Paris, amongst others.

A reform in the French system took place in March this year, which changed the rules under which students are accepted into colleges.

The new reform came into effect in September amidst growing criticism against it, with trade unions claiming that it is in direct contradiction with the right and equality in access to higher in the nation.

Hundreds of protesters have been detained across France due to the 'yellow vest' protests against the hike in fuel prices until now. Since January 2018, diesel prices have increased by around 23 per cent, while petrol is retailed at 15 per cent higher costs. The prices are expected to rise further next month.

Macron had earlier ordered French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe to hold talks with political leaders and demonstrators to end the nationwide protests.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Four people were arrested on Monday in connection with the paper leak of police constable recruitment test in Gujarat's Ahmedabad city.

The accused have been identified as Manhar Patel, Roopal Sharma, PV Patel and Mukesh Chaudhary. Patel and Chaudhary are Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers who have been suspended by the party.

Addressing a press conference here, Gandhinagar Superintendent of Police (SP) Mayur Chavda said: "Four people Manhar Patel, Roopal Sharma, PV Patel and Mukesh Chaudhary have been arrested in connection with the paper leak. Mukesh Chaudhary and Manhar Patel are BJP workers and have been suspended by BJP".

"PV Patel is Police sub-inspector in DG office and has been suspended. Roopal Sharma is rector of a hostel," he added.

Chavda further informed that prime conspirator Yashpal Sinh Solanki from Lunavada, who works in Vadodara Municipal Corporation, is absconding.

On Sunday, the Gujarat police recruitment board cancelled a written exam for the recruitment of police constables after the paper leak incident. Lok Rakshak Recruitment Board (LRRB) Chairman and Additional Director General of Police (DGP) Vikas Sahay had informed that the examination was called off after it came to light that the paper had got leaked.

Sahay further said that the whole matter would be investigated and action will be taken against the people involved.

Over 8.76 lakh candidates were scheduled to appear for the exam for 9,713 posts at 2,440 examination centres across the state.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Personnel from the Forest Department here waited inside a cage to tranquilise a man-eating leopard which allegedly killed three people in the area.

It has been learnt that the leopard is yet to be caught yet by the department officials.

This comes after widespread outrage over the killing of tigress Avni in Maharashtra on November 2. She had allegedly killed 14 people.

Following the killing, Union Minister for Women and Child Development and animal rights activist Maneka Gandhi wrote to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, seeking removal of Sudhir Mungantiwar, State Minister of and Forest.

She claimed that Avni could have been saved had the minister in-charge been 'little more sensitive.'

Meanwhile, protests were held in Mumbai against Maharashtra Forest Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar and others over Avni's killing on Sunday.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned till January third week a plea of Zakia Jafri, widow of former Congress MP Ehsan Jafri, challenging the clean chit given by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several others in 2002 Gujarat riots.

A bench headed by Justice AM Khanwilkar adjourned the matter after counsels appearing for Jafri and anther applicant Teesta Setalvad, sought time to file more documents.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Jafri, asked for time to file convenience volumes consisting of direct evidence to establish a conspiracy. Jafri was among 69 people killed in the Gulbarg Society massacre.

The SIT, appointed by the apex court, conducted the investigation into the case and gave a clean chit to then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, other top politicians and bureaucrats. The clean chit was given citing lack of "prosecutable evidence" against them.

Challenging the Gujarat High Court's order dated October 5, 2017 that upheld SIT's clean chit, Zakia approached the Supreme Court alleging a "larger conspiracy" in the riots.

The Gujarat High Court had upheld the magisterial court's order, accepting the SIT's closure report.

Earlier, Zakia had approached the Gujarat High Court in 2014 after the magisterial court rejected the petition challenging the SIT report.

In her petition to the Supreme Court, Zakia has stated: "Grant ad-interim order to Special Investigation Team (SIT) to carry out further investigation under section 173(8) of Code of Criminal Procedure (Cr. P. C.) in regard to the petitioner's complaint dated June 8, 2006 and the evidence placed before the learned through the protest petition dated April 15, 2013.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Delhi High Court on Monday issued notices to Union Finance Ministry, Delhi government and Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to respond to a writ petition filed by a differently-abled person for getting a refund on excess tax paid by him.

Sandeep, a person with benchmark disability, had filed a petition in the High Court after getting no relief from the authorities. He claimed that he made a lot of effort to get a refund of the excess amount paid as Goods and Services Tax (GST) while purchasing a car.

In this regard, the High Court bench headed by Justice S. Ravinder Bhat on Monday asked both Union Ministries to file their response within four weeks. The matter will now be heard on February 14, 2019.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The is keen to have a third aircraft carrier, while being in the process of inducting 56 warships and submarines to augment its maritime capabilities, Naval Chief Admiral said here on Monday.

The navy already has aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya in operation while another carrier , INS Vikrant is under construction in Kochi.

"The third aircraft carrier (AC) is important because if we have three aircraft carriers, it will give us the capability to fight in the war at least with two at any given time. We are in discussion (with the government) and we have worked out the details. We will see a start in three years," Admiral Lanba said.

INS Vikrant, being built indigenously, is in its third and final phase of construction, he added.

Besides INS Vikrant, 32 ships and submarines are presently under construction at different Indian shipyards, he said.

These include P-15B Class Destroyers, P17A class stealth Frigates, P28 ASW Corvettes, Offshore Patrol Vessels and Scorpene class submarines.

The has been at the forefront of self-reliance in defense production, right since Independence, he said at the Indian Navys annual press conference.

He also said that on the aviation front, a long-standing critical shortfall in the naval helicopter fleet has been finally addressed with the accord of AoN (Acceptance of Necessity) for 111 utility helicopters in August this year and issue of LoR (Letter of Request) for 24 multi-role helicopters last month.

Admiral Lanba said that the induction of the new assets and capabilities are being progressed in consonance with the Indian Navys long-term perspective plans.

He also touched upon the Indian Navys thrust on supporting the Make-in- vision and apprised that since 2014, 82 per cent of AoNs on cost basis has been accorded to Indian vendors. Also during the same period, 72 per cent of the cost of contracts concluded is with Indian vendors.

The Naval Chief also stated that more than two-thirds of Navys modernisation budget has been spent on indigenous procurement in the last four years. And that 60 per cent of the naval budget is earmarked for modernisation and capital expenditure.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Israel police have gathered enough evidence to charge Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a third corruption case, a statement confirmed on Sunday.

The statement said that evidence of fraud, bribery and breach of trust was found by the authorities against Netanyahu. Additionally, the police said that there is enough evidence to indict Netanyahu's wife, Sara, with charges of fraud, taking bribes and interference in an investigation.

Dubbed as the 'C4000' the case is the largest faced by the Israeli leader and ones closely connected to him. The case pertains to the ties between the Government's Ministry of Communications and Israel-based telecommunication company Bezeq.

The investigation in the case has revealed that Netanyahu sanctioned regulatory benefits up to the tunes of USD 280 million to Shaul Elovitch, the majority shareholder of Bezeq and a friend of the Prime Minister. Investigators added that Elovitch repaid the favour by publishing pro-Netanyahu biased news in Walla! News, a news website owned by Elovitch.

The police stated that there is enough proof to level charges of bribery, interference with an investigation and financial crimes on Elovitch.

Both Netanyahu and Elovitch have refuted the charges.

"The police recommendations against me and my wife do not surprise anyone. These recommendations were decided and leaked before the investigation had even begun. The police recommendations have no legal standing. There was nothing because there is nothing," Netanyahu said in a statement.

The two previous cases against Netanyahu also involve charges of fraud, bribery and breach of trust, with police claiming to have enough proof to indict the leader.

The first case, Case 1000, involves Netanyahu allegedly receiving gifts worth USD 2, 80, 000 from foreign businessmen from 2007 to 2016. The second case against Netanyahu, Case 2000, pertains to the conversations he held with the owner of one of Israel's leading newspapers Yedioth Ahronoth, Arnon Mozes, who regularly criticises the Prime Minister.

Following the police statement, opposition leaders have called for Netanyahu's resignation.

"Netanyahu has to go before he takes down law enforcement authorities in order to save himself. The people of Israel deserve clean leadership," former Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni said.

Meanwhile, Labor Party chief Avi Gabbay said, "A prime minister with so many criminal cases around him cannot continue in his job and must resign."

The Israeli Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who is reviewing the police evidence, will take the decision on whether to prosecute Nethayahu or not.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In Rajasthan, it is patriots vs Congress, deprived of policies and principles. Expressing the view, Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah on Monday left it to the voters to choose the party, on December 7, they feel should govern the state for the next five years.

Hailing his party as an organisation of patriots, Shah dubbed the Congress led by Rahul Gandhi as a political outfit deprived of policies and principles. Addressing an election rally here, he said: "Rajasthan people have to decide on upcoming December 7 as to who would govern the state for the next five years. On the one hand, there is a party of patriots led by (Narendra) Modi ji. On the other hand, it is the Congress under Rahul baba's leadership, which has no policy or principles. People have to choose between the BJP and the Congress party."

Sharpening his attack, Shah boasted that since 2014 electoral win his party has spread its wings across 70 per cent of the nation while reducing the Congress to the state of extinct.

"Rahul Gandhi should stop daydreaming about winning elections. In 2014 people made Prime Minister of India. The first election after that was held in Maharashtra where Congress lost and BJP won. Thereafter, Congress lost to BJP in Haryana, Jharkhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Goa. Bharatiya Janata Party is ruling over 70 per cent geographical area of India," said the BJP president while underlining the party's achievement.

"When it was former prime minister Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi's government in Rajasthan, what did Rajasthan get? It got Rs.1,09,242 crore in the 13th Finance Commission. The BJP government worked to increase it to Rs.2,63,580 crore for Rajasthan. And they (Congress) are asking us what have we done?" Shah explained while underscoring the central government's commitment towards the state's development and burning the midnight oil to achieve it.

Elections in Rajasthan are being seen as a direct fight between the BJP and the Congress. While BJP is gearing to repeat its 2013 performance, the Congress has pulled out all the stops to bounce back in the state. In 2013, Congress faced a defeat in Rajasthan assembly polls as BJP managed its best ever tally of 163 seats out of 200.

The 200-member Rajasthan Assembly is scheduled to go to polls on December 7 and the counting of votes will take place on December 11.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Police on Monday detained eight terrorists involved in a conspiracy to snatch weapons from police personnel.

The eight terrorists, accomplices from the areas of Baramulla, Tangmarg, and Srinagar, were detained on the basis of credible input that some terrorists were framing a criminal conspiracy by stealing weapons from police personnel.

As per a statement issued by the police, incriminating materials, including arms and ammunition, were recovered from the terrorists.

"We've detained eight persons involved in a conspiracy to snatch weapons from police personnel. An FIR has been registered and the investigation is underway. Incriminating evidence has been found and arms and ammunition were recovered from them," DIG North Kashmir, Atul Kumar Goel told ANI.

Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) under section 18 (criminal evidence) and section 38 UA (P) Act (unlawful activities) in Tangmarg Police Station.

Further investigation is underway in the matter.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Amitabh Mathur, a former adviser on Tibetan Affairs, confirmed that Karmapa Lama's absence is not the reason behind the indefinite postponement of the 13th Tibetan Religious Leaders Conference in Dharamshala.

Mathur, who was, until recently, an adviser on Tibetan Affairs to the Government of India, said the conference has been postponed due to two reasons - the sudden death of Kathok Getse Rinpoche, head of the Nyingma School, and an upcoming annual aspirational prayer season called Monlam.

"There has been unnecessary speculation about his possibility of his (Karmapa Lama) not attending as one of the reasons for postponement of the conference, as reported by Tibetan newspapers about the postponement. But, that is not true at all. I don't think his attendance was an issue in the postponement but purely a mark of respect to the late Getse Rinpoche. However, given his very special place in Tibetan Buddhist hierarchy it would be good if he can attend and contribute to the discussions," he said.

The 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, is out of the country and in the USA since May 2017. He was expected to return to India to participate in 13th Religious Conference on Tibetan Buddhism that was to be organised at Dharamshala from November 29 to December 1.

Mathur added, "Now, from what I hear, he is very keen to return quickly and to preside over his school's Monlam in Bodh Gaya, which will start in Mid December till end January or early February. If it (conference) can be scheduled during that time perhaps, yes, he will attend, but on the issue of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, the Karmapa has reaffirmed his loyalty to him time and again. And he also accepts the authority of the Central Tibetan Administration, as now the political theme of the Tibetans. He also has a great rapport with the Sikyong, Dr Sangay. Dr Sangay, in fact, has a great rapport with all Tibetan senior monks. So, on the issue of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, Karmapa will certainly back whatever is decided by his holiness".

Over 150 invitations had been sent to all lineage holders and heads of monasteries in India and Nepal. Subjects to be discussed during the event included challenges before Tibetan Buddhism including the growing incidence of scandals and misconduct by Tibetan monks.

The issue of reincarnation of the 14th Dalai Lama was also part of the agenda.

Mathur believes that the agenda will not undergo any change with the postponement of the conference. He added, "The whole conference was very carefully planned by Dr Sangay in consultation with the monastic Heads and His Holiness Dalai Lama, who has great trust and confidence in Dr Sangay. So, I don't think it will undergo any change. I haven't heard of any discordant voice about the agenda. So, I think it should remain the same".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Slain Journalist Jamal Khashoggi had labelled Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman a "beast" and a "pac-man" adding that "the more victims he eats, the more he wants".

The revelation was made in over 400 WhatsApp messages Khashoggi had sent to a Canada-based activist and fellow Saudi exile Omar Abdulaziz in the year prior to his killing. CNN was granted exclusive access to the messages.

"Arrests are unjustified and do not serve him (logic says), but tyranny has no logic, but he loves force, oppression and needs to show them off. He is like a beast 'pac man' the more victims he eats, the more he wants. I will not be surprised that the oppression will reach even those who are cheering him, then others and others and so on. God knows," the former Washington Post scribe said in one message to Abdulaziz.

Speaking to CNN, Abdulaziz said that Jamal believed bin Salman, commonly referred to as MBS, was the problem. "MBS is the issue, is the problem and he said this kid should be stopped," Abdulaziz said.

After a number of their conversations were believed to have been intercepted by Saudi officials in August this year, Khashoggi wrote, "God help us" and two months later, he was killed in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.

On Sunday, Abdulaziz pursued legal action against an Israel-based company that created the military-grade spyware he believes was used by Saudi to hack his phone.

According to Bill Marczak, a research fellow at the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab, the software was invented by the NSO group and was used on Abdulaziz's phone following directions from the Saudi government.

"The hacking of my phone played a major role in what happened to Jamal, I am really sorry to say. The guilt is killing me," the Montreal-based activist said.

The messages revealed that the two had initiated plans to start an online movement, hoping to rope in the Saudi youth and disparage the government's propaganda on social media.

Abdulaziz said that their, and the Saudi government's, greatest weapon was Twitter.

"We have no parliament; we just have Twitter. Twitter is the only tool they're (Saudi) using to fight and to spread their rumours. We've been attacked, we've been insulted, we'd been threatened so many times, and we decided to do something," Abdulaziz said.

Khashoggi and Abdulaziz planned to get foreign sim cards into the country, allowing the "cyber bees" to tweet without being traced, and raise money. Abdulaziz said that Khashoggi had committed an initial USD 30, 000 and planned to raise more from donors.

"Once they heard about the bees, they were really worried and disturbed, the officials. They arrested a lot of people and raided many places. I bore the brunt of having the group and communication. I'm glad you're abroad and you are safe," Abdulaziz wrote to Khashoggi following the interception of their messages by Saudi in August.

Abdulaziz also mentioned that two Saudi emissaries, who claimed to have been sent by MBS, had sought to meet him in Montreal in May. The two men, referred to as Malek and Abdullah, said that bin Salman watches him on Twitter and wants to offer him a job.

Abdulaziz recorded over ten hours of their conversations. These recordings are a crucial development in the narrative so far as Saudi Arabia has maintained over the course of the two months since Khashoggi's murder that their Prince had no connections with the plot for the same.

The two men asked Abdulaziz to meet at the Saudi embassy in order for the latter to collect some documents. Abdulaziz further stated that Khashoggi adviced him to not go there, an advice he believes saved his life. "He told me not to go and only to meet them in public places," he said.

However, Khashoggi did not follow his own advice on October 2. He entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul to collect documents for his marriage to fiancee Hatice Cengiz, never to be seen again.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Amid 'Yellow Vest' crisis, the National Rally (NR) leader Marine Le Pen has proposed to dissolve the lower Chamber of French Parliament and hold fresh parliamentary elections.

According to the Sputnik, Le Pen, while citing the only solution to the crisis, said, "It is necessary to implement proportional representation and dissolve the National Assembly in order to hold new proportional elections."

Le Pen further criticised President Emmanuel Macron for his insufficient response to the protest. "We are the best in policing the In this case, we have been very bad," she said on Monday.

The Assembly was last dissolved in 1997 when then President Jacques Chirac dissolved the National Assembly over economic instability in the country and asked the French to elect a new Parliament.

On Saturday, nearly 36,000 Yellow Vest demonstrators took to the streets to protest against the government decision to increase fuel prices. So far, a total of 133 people have been injured during the riot and 412 were arrested.

Speaking on the protests, Macron asserted that his country would not change their decision on the hike in fuel prices. He further condemned the violence and stated that those behind the violence would be brought to justice.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In the wake of 'yellow vest' protests across the country, mainly over the fuel price hike, President Emmanuel Macron here on Monday ordered the Prime Minister Edouard Philippe to hold talks with political leaders, as well as the demonstrators to end the nationwide protests.

Al Jazeera cited a statement, issued by the French President after meeting members of his government on Sunday, stating that Macron has also asked his interior minister to prepare security forces for protests that may erupt in Paris or elsewhere in the country.

A source from the French presidency was quoted as saying that Macron would not speak to the nation despite calls for providing immediate concessions to the demonstrators. The French President, according to the source, even added that the idea of imposing a state of emergency had not been discussed.

The Sunday's meeting was conducted after the French capital was converted into a battle zone by the 'yellow vest' demonstrations for the third consecutive weekend on Sunday.

The French police responded with tear gas, after protesters hurled stones and projectiles towards them, injuring at least 133 people, including 23 members of the security forces, Al Jazeera reported.

The French capital has been witnessing widespread violent protests lately with agitators resorting to looting and vandalising shops, setting cars and buildings ablaze and fighting with the police. Ruckus was also created in several other cities and towns across France including Charleville Mezieres, Nantes and Marseille.

Since January 2018, diesel prices have increased by around 23 per cent, while petrol is retailed at 15 per cent higher costs. The prices are expected to rise further next month.

Speaking on the protests, Macron asserted that his country will not change their decision on the hike in fuel prices. He further condemned the violence and stated that those causing it will be brought to justice.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Seems like, Michelle Obama has a special place in her heart for the Bush family as she cancelled a few dates of her book tour for her autobiography titled 'Becoming', in order to attend former President George H.W. Bush's funeral this week.

The former First Lady recently took to her official Twitter handle to share the news.

"It's important to me to join the Bush family in celebrating President George H.W. Bush's exemplary life. This will, unfortunately, preclude my visits to Paris and Berlin. I've been deeply touched by the enthusiasm for my memoir, and I'm working to reschedule my trip for next year," she wrote in her tweet.

"I hope readers and ticket holders will understand my decision regarding my desire to attend President Bush's funeral, and join me in paying tribute to him and his tremendous contributions to our world," she wrote in another tweet.

She also paid tribute to George H.W. Bush on Saturday by sharing a throwback photo of the late 41st president on her official Instagram account. The photo features Bush giving a sweet kiss to her on her cheek in the Oval Office.

"As a public servant, father, and grandfather, President George H.W. Bush was an extraordinary example for us all. His spirit of service and decency will be missed by many, including our family. I hope his memory will be a guiding light for our country and those around the world," she captioned the picture.

Bush, who served as the 41st President of the United States from 1989 to 1992, passed away at the age of 94 on November 30 in Houston.

On December 5, a state funeral will be held at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. Following, a second memorial service at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Houston on Thursday, reported The Hollywood Reporter.

'Becoming' has become the fastest-selling book and 2 million copies have already been sold in the first 15 days.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that Moscow has noted Riyadh's readiness in participating in the investigation into the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

"The Russian side has its own relations with Saudi Arabia. We note Saudis' readiness to participate in the investigation. We are interested in continuing bilateral Russian-Saudi relations," Peskov told reporters on Monday, when asked to comment on the warm greetings that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) shared on Saturday at the G20 summit amid claims of MBS' possible involvement in the murder.

Peskov added that Putin and MBS had "quite an efficient and meaningful discussion" on the sidelines of the summit.

According to Peskov, the leaders discussed not only Russian-Saudi bilateral relations, but the two countries' cooperation within the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).

"So, contacts on the highest level are being conducted, and this is based on our interest to develop our bilateral relations further," Peskov concluded.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Former Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni and his daughter Ziva created a buzz across the internet, after the daunting father shared an adorable video of them shaking a leg together.

The wicket-keeper batsman posted the video on his official Instagram account with a caption that read, "Even better when we are dancing @zivasinghdhoni006."

While Ziva could be seen leading the dance moves, her father also did a pretty good job in matching the steps.

Dhoni, who was dropped from India's T20I squad against West Indies and Australia, will join the national side in Australia for a three-match ODI series which is slated to be held in January, next year.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday attacked Rahul Gandhi for challenging his Hindu credentials and questioned whether the Congress President wanted to seek votes in Rajasthan over this issue rather than the basic issues like electricity, water and roads.

Prime Minister Modi's comment came two days after Gandhi said that the former "doesn't understand the foundation of Hinduism" and asked "What kind of a Hindu is he?"

Gandhi had made the remarks in Udaipur while addressing a rally as part of campaigning for the upcoming Assembly polls.

"Even the saints have never claimed that they know everything about Hinduism and Hindutva. This is such a mammoth subject that it is not possible for any human to acquire," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing a rally here.

"I can never claim to be possessing this knowledge, only the 'naamdar' can do it," the Prime Minister said in reference to Gandhi, whom he calls by that name.

He went on to add, "During the elections, he (Gandhi) is saying that Modi has no knowledge (about Hinduism). Whether Modi has knowledge or not, will votes be cast in Rajasthan on this issue? Does Rajasthan want voting on electricity, water and roads or whether Modi has knowledge about Hinduism?"

Prime Minister Modi, in his speech, also accused the Congress of spreading lies.

"In spreading lies, the Congress has become such a university where study of PhD starts on every admission. Whoever gets more marks in spreading lies, he gets new post and position," the Prime Minister said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Punjab government has decided to set up the Dera Baba Nanak Development Authority for the development and beautification of the area in and around Dera Baba Nanak ahead of 550th celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev. A decision to this effect was taken at the Cabinet meeting on Monday, which was chaired by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

The Cabinet also passed a resolution, welcoming the opening of Kartarpur corridor as a historic step to mark the auspicious occasion. "With the laying of the foundation stone for the corridor, a long-pending demand of the people in the state was fulfilled, thus paving the way for the opening of the way for devotees to visit the historic Kartarpur Gurdwara, close to the Line of Control," said an official statement issued after the Cabinet meeting.

The Cabinet also approved the draft of Punjab Water Resources (Management and Regulation) Bill, 2018, aimed at ensuring judicious, equitable and sustainable utilisation and management of the state's critical water resources. The proposed Punjab Water Regulation and Development Authority (PWRDA) would have a chairman, besides two members to be appointed by the state government.

The authority would be empowered to take all such measures as it deems necessary or expedient for the objective for which it is to be set up, and would have powers to issue directions and guidelines for the conservation and management of the water resources. It would also be empowered to issue tariff orders specifying the charges to be imposed by entities supplying water for drinking, domestic, commercial or industrial use, added the statement.

The Punjab Cabinet also approved the merger of 20 District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs) with the Punjab State Cooperative Bank (PSCB) to strengthen the state's rural credit system and facilitate farmers taking credit from cooperative banks. With the Cabinet giving the green signal to change the state's three-tier cooperative credit structure into two-tier, by amalgamating the DCCBs with the PSCB, the latter has now become a larger entity bank.

A government spokesperson said the decision had been taken in view of the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) guidelines, which mandate that all DCCBs should have a minimum capital adequacy ratio of 9 per cent. Although at present the DCCBs are adhering to the required Capital to Risk Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of 9 per cent, there is hardly any space for the majority of these DCCBs to enhance their business and to increase their profitability.

To meet the CRAR stipulation mandated by RBI for the cooperative banks, the state government had to infuse capital amounting to Rs 307 crore in the past. With this merger, the cooperative bank in the state will emerge as a financially and structurally stronger entity. After amalgamation, the single entity will have capital adequacy in the range of 13-14 per cent, allowing cooperative banks to increase their business while meeting RBI's stipulation of capital adequacy.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Qatar's Energy Minister Saad Sherida al-Kaabi on Monday announced that Qatar will withdraw from the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in January 2019.

Qatar Petroleum while confirming the withdrawal, tweeted, "Qatar announces it was withdrawing from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries "OPEC" effective 1 January 2019."

Qatar joined the organisation consisting of 15 oil producing countries in 1962.

While addressing a press conference, al-Kaabi stated that the decision was taken as Qatar's wants to focus its efforts to increase its natural gas production, reported Al Jazeera.

"Achieving our ambitious growth strategy will undoubtedly require focused efforts, commitment and dedication to maintain and strengthen Qatar's position as the leading natural gas producer," he added.

The decision comes days before the OPEC meeting which is scheduled to be held on December 6.

OPEC, headquartered in Vienna, Austria, accounted for half of the global oil production and around 80 per cent of the proven oil reserve.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah on Monday said that Congress president Rahul Gandhi did not know if he were campaigning for the BJP as he often used Prime Minister Narendra Modi's name in his speeches.

Addressing an election rally here, Shah said, "Rahul Gandhi uses the name of Modi ji more than the BJP. We don't understand if he is campaigning for the Congress or for the BJP."

Claiming that BJP will win assembly elections of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, Shah said, "Rahul should stop daydreaming of winning these two states because the BJP government is an immovable foot of Angad (a character in Ramayana). Nobody can oust the BJP from the state," he said.

Continuing his tirade attack against the Congress, Shah even questioned the existence of Congress stating, "Time has come that one needs a telescope to find if Congress exists."

Comparing the work of the Congress and BJP in Rajasthan, Shah said, "During the Congress regime, the total budget for Rajasthan was only Rs 1.9 lakh crore. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the charge in Delhi, the state's budget was raised to more than Rs 2.63 lakh crore."

Shah also raked up the issue of surgical strikes, carried out by India against terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in 2016. He said that the Congress was ashamed of saying 'Bharat Mata ki Jai.'

Shah also praised the efforts of Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje. "She provided free electricity to the state farmers, free health check-up under Bhamashah Yojana, loans under Mudra Bank scheme and gas connections and free mobiles to women," he said.

The 200-member Rajasthan Assembly is scheduled to go to polls on December 7. The counting of votes will take place on December 11.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)With campaigning having entered the last leg in Rajasthan, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah on Monday took a potshot at his Congress counterpart Rahul Gandhi saying that in the coming days, Rahul will have to use binoculars to locate Congress-ruled states on Indian map.

"In the coming days, Rahul Gandhi will have to locate Congress on India's map using binoculars. Since 2014, after Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, the BJP has won elections in 19 states and its saffron flag is flying in 70 per cent of the area," Shah said while addressing an election rally at Pratapgarh in poll-bound Rajasthan.

Continuing his tirade against Gandhi scion, Shah claimed that the Congress lacks vision, mission, and policy, and has no leadership. "The four generations of the Gandhi family have done nothing for the poor and downtrodden of the society and Rahul Gandhi has the audacity to ask what the BJP has done for the country," he added.

Shah further said that while the BJP considers common man as the party's "own mother and father, the Congress governments have been mired neck-deep in corruption with scams unearthed in every element of the earth-right from the universe to inferno."

"The Congress party did ISRO and 2G scams in the universe, Westland helicopter scam in the sky, Adarsh Society scam on land, the submarine scam in the sea and coal scam beneath the earth," Shah added.

The assembly elections in Rajasthan are due on December 7 while the counting of votes will take place on December 11.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)As India prepares to launch its maiden human space flight programme, Gaganyan, by 2022, Russian Ambassador to India Nikolay Kudashev on Monday said that his country is ready to assist India in all ways, particularly in the training of its astronauts and in the areas of safety and communications.

Speaking on the sidelines of an event at the Russian Embassy where a painting of India's first astronaut, Wing Cdr (Rtd) Rakesh Sharma was unveiled, Kudashev underlined that India and Russia have a long history of partnership in the field of space and "Russian scientists will be happy to partner with India's space programme."

India's first astronaut, Wing Cdr Rakesh Sharma, travelled to space on April 2, 1984 onboard Soyuz T-11 along with Russian astronauts.

"It is a pleasure to know that India is launching its own project and planning to send its manned mission to space. We have several years of partnership with India. During the Summit talks between President (Vladimir Putin) and Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi, a relevant memorandum was signed between the two sides," he said.

"There are different dimensions of this which include the development of relevant launcher, the exploratory unit, living quarters of the team, safety and communication measures and preparations of cosmonauts for such a long flight. That is where our experience is there for 60 years," Kudashev added while referring to the MoU signed between Roscosmos and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) during the annual summit between Russia and India in October this year.

He added that during External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's visit to Russia in September this year, the possibility of training of Indian astronauts apart from crew module and life support systems was explored.

India's first man in space, Wing Cdr (Retd) Sharma said that ever since he travelled to space in April 1984 a lot has changed in terms of technology and safety. He added that instead of waiting for its own infrastructure to come up, India should start training its astronauts with friendly space-faring nations.

"ISRO has achieved milestones and it is looking ahead at exploration for which the human being has to go into space. ISRO will continue to be as successful in this programme as they have been in the past.Things have become safer now compared to 35 years back. But as far as the challenges are there - physical, physiological--they haven't changed and that will be the same. Whatever training has to be done is going to be as relevant today as it was earlier," said Sharma.

"I am quite sure we will be able to do it, initially perhaps with some consultancy and later by ourselves. It will take a while for the infrastructure to come into place. Rather than wait for infrastructure to be first commissioned and then start the training, we can always take help from friendly space-faring nations and we will be able to crush the time cycle," Sharma added.

He added that India needs to build a full corps of astronauts for a sustainable space programme. "If you are going to have a sustainable manned space programme, and if we are going to be a part of colonising the Moon first and later perhaps the Mars, then obviously we will have to have a full corps of astronauts," Sharma added.

India has set a target of 2022 to put it three astronauts into space for seven days through its own space mission.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday filed a charge sheet against Delhi minister Satyendra Jain and his wife Poonam in connection with an alleged disproportionate assets case.

Along with the Delhi Minister, the CBI's charge sheet mentioned names of his business associates Ajeet Prasad Jain, Vaibhav Jain, Sunil Jain, and Ayush Jain.

The charge-sheet was filed by the CBI in Delhi's Patiala House Court.

Satyendra and Poonam Jain ran a firm named M/S JJ Ideal Estate Pvt Ltd. The investigation has revealed that Jain and his family had a stake and shareholding in Prayas Info Pvt Ltd, Metalimpex Pvt Ltd, Akainchan Developers Pvt Ltd, and Mangala Yatan Projects Pvt Ltd.

Jain was the director in all these companies except Mangala Yatan. He resigned from the directorship of other three companies before the elections in 2013. His family members continued to be shareholders in all the three companies.

The investigation has further revealed that the three companies - Prayas, Mangal Yatna, and Akainchan- have received Rs 1.53 crore as accommodation entries from Kolkata-based shell companies.

Satyendra and Vaibhav allegedly sent money to a Kolkata-based hawala operator Rajendra Bansal, who, in turn, provided accommodation entries in the form of share application money in the said four companies till 2016.

The probe further revealed the active role of Poonam Jain.

After registering the case, the CBI had conducted searches at four places, including residence and company office on August 25, 2017.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a writ petition filed by socio-cultural organisation Jagannath Sena seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry in the Jagannath Puri temple violence on October 3 in which many police personnel allegedly entered the temple premises with shoes and guns.

A bench of the apex court, headed by Justice Madan Bhimrao Lokur, dismissed the writ petition on grounds of not finding any merit in it.

On November 2, Jagannath Sena had filed a writ petition in the top court urging for a probe by the CBI into the matter, more than a month after the Supreme Court had barred police from entering the 12th century Puri Jagannath temple with weapons and shoes.

Earlier, the apex court had also taken note of the violence on October 3 that broke out during a protest against introduction of queue system for devotees. The plea was filed by a practising advocate Debasish Misra, who alleged that the police entered the temple with guns following which clashes broke out in the shrine on that day.

Counsel appearing for the Odisha government had told the court that no violence took place inside the temple premises and it was the office of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), situated around 500 meters from the main temple, which was attacked and ransacked.

As many as 47 people were arrested in connection with the violence, Odisha government said, adding that nine policemen were injured in the attack.

On October 3, Jagannath Sena had called for a 12-hour dawn-to-dusk shutdown to protest against the introduction of the queue system. As per system, devotees were expected to enter the shrine by forming a queue at the Singhadwara which is the main entrance to the temple.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Sindh National Voice (SNV) activists took out a cultural protest rally in Nawabshah against the construction of dams and canals on Indus River and enforced disappearance in Sindh.

Condemning the dam construction campaign, the group of activists also demanded the release of all Sindhi political activists, who became the victim of enforced disappearance in Sindh.

An SNV activist said that Sindh has the rightful claim on the 75 per cent water of Indus River which was agreed upon by Sindh and Punjab under British Rule in the Water Accord of 1945.

He further said, "Punjab has been constructing dams and canals on Indus against the will and interests of Sindh. It has violated all water treaties between the two nations and has stolen the share of Sindh for more than seven decades."

He also demanded the safe release of all missing Sindhi political activists, students, and intellectuals.

"We appeal to the international community, United Nations Organisation, and international human rights bodies to stop Pakistan from persecuting Sindhi political activists, committing grave atrocities, human rights violations against Sindhi people," he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Sri Lankan court here on Monday issued an interim order barring the functioning of the respondents as Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, Cabinet ministers, deputy ministers and state ministers, reported the Daily Mirror.

The order was issued against his Cabinet of ministers, including deputy ministers and state ministers, apart from the former Sri Lankan

President. The respondents were asked to appear in the court on December 12.

On November 23, a petition challenging Rajapaksa's premiership was filed in a Sri Lankan court signed by 122 Parliamentarians after he lost two no-confidence votes. The Parliamentarians who signed the petition included the members of United National Party (UNP), Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and Tamil National Alliance (TNA).

The court decided to hear the petition on November 30 and December 3 before a two-judge bench comprising Justices Preethi Padman Surasena and Arjuna Obeysekera.

On Sunday (December 2), Rajapaksa said that it is imperative to conduct general elections in the country in order to restore democracy and put an end to the ongoing political crisis.

Sri Lanka has been reeling from a turbulent political crisis for almost a month, when President Maithripala Sirisena on October 26 abruptly sacked then-Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and installed the now-ousted Mahinda Rajapaksa, the country's former President, as the new premier.

President Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered a snap election.

The country's Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls. The apex court will hear more arguments and is expected to deliver the verdict next week.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa here on Sunday said that it is imperative to conduct general elections in the country in order to restore democracy and put an end to the ongoing political crisis.

The statement from Rajapaksa comes after he failed to prove majority twice in the Sri Lankan parliament.

Colombo Page quoted a statement released by the Prime Minister's Office, which said, "According to the country's constitution, sovereign power is vested with the people, not the parliament and emphasized that this power is being implemented through universal suffrage."

"The only way to restore stability to a destabilized democracy will be through a general election. If things had gone accordingly stability would soon have been restored to this country," the statement added.

Prime Minister Rajapaksa in his statement further underlined that elections were called early whenever it became necessary for the state to overcome situations of political turbulence.

Sri Lanka has been reeling from a turbulent political crisis for almost a month, when President Maithripala Sirisena on October 26 abruptly sacked then-Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and installed the now-ousted Mahinda Rajapaksa, the country's former President, as the new premier.

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls. The court will hear more arguments and would deliver a verdict next month.

Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Indian Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba on Monday said the process of information sharing among the countries concerned has been accorded renewed impetus at the highest level to enhance collective maritime security in the Indian Ocean region (IOR).

Talking to media persons here, Admiral Lanba said that the Indian navy has inked White Shipping Information Exchange agreements with 19 countries and has operationalised the agreement with 12 countries. "Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) of the Indian Navy has also emerged as a virtual information hub for White Shipping information in the region," he added.

Naval Chief further said that the navy is in the process of setting up an Information Fusion Centre (IFC-IOR) to further its commitment to ensuring security in the IOR.

He denied any lapse of coastal security in connection with the venturing of a 27-year-old American citizen John Allen Chau in Andaman. Chau was killed on the island inhabited by a tribe, which is known to resist outside contact in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Talking about the changes introduced in the Indian Navy after 26/11 attack carried out in Mumbai, the Chief of the Naval Staff said, "Since 26/11 took place, our preparations have improved in the form of ships and aircrafts size. Also, the Navy is now the in-charge of maritime security along with the Indian Coastguard. The intelligence inputs are received and the information is exchanged information at right time."

In reply to a question about Anil Ambani's involvement delaying Navy projects, Admiral Lanba said, "Reliance Natural Resources Limited (RNRL) is undergoing corporate debt restructuring (CDR). They have taken to the court by IDBI Bank.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj arrived in Abu Dhabi late on Monday ahead of the 12th Joint Commission Meeting (JCM), which she will co-chair with UAE's Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Taking to his Twitter handle, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "Hello Abu Dhabi! EAM @SushmaSwaraj arrives in the fascinating city of #AbuDhabi. EAM would be co-chairing the 12th session of India-UAE #JCM, co-inaugurating the Gandhi-Zayed Museum & interacting with the Indian Community."

The EAM is slated to participate in a string of high-level engagements planned during her short trip, from December 3 to December 4. The EAM will call on the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and inaugurate the Gandhi-Zayed Digital Museum in the UAE capital.

She will also hold an interactive session with the Indian diaspora during her two-day visit.

"India and the UAE enjoy strong bonds of friendship, which are founded on millennia-old cultural, religious and economic interaction between the two regions. In the recent past, with the exchange of visits at the highest level, the relationship has been elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," a statement issued by the MEA noted.

The two countries are among the largest trade partners for each other, with bilateral trade amounting to USD 50 billion. Apart from being the sixth-largest source of India's oil imports, the UAE has a 3.3 million strong Indian community.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Sweden - India signed two MoUs in the Renewable Energy sector to enhance the technology and bring in energy efficiency in India. The first MoU was between Swedish solar pump manufactured Spowdi and Bangalore based EMVEE for setting up local manufacturing / assembly in Bangalore.

The second was between Swedish Earth Fault Protection System provider Swedish Neutral and India's leading distribution company Tata Power DDL for setting up pilot for earth fault protection in Delhi.

The MoUs were signed on the sidelines of inauguration of the first of its kind 'Sustainability by Sweden - Showroom India' by Swedish Energy, Agency Sweden and The Embassy of Sweden under the Sweden India Nobel Memorial Programme.

The showroom was inaugurated at Sweden, New Delhi by Mr. A. K. Verma, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Power, Ms. Josa Karre, counsellor and head of Economic Affairs, Embassy of Sweden and Ms. Josephine Bahr Ljungdell - Director of International Affairs, Swedish Energy Agency.

India and Sweden share a long history of collaboration, which is guided by MoU in the fields of energy, environment, science & technology and sustainable urban planning. To further strengthen the collaboration, this showroom has been set up in India as a next step towards bi-lateral program - India Sweden Innovations Accelerator (ISIA). The showroom will present over 20 Swedish innovative technologies, which have been introduced and filtered through the dedicated ISIA program. The program has been recognized as the flagship program to expand research, innovation and cooperation on new innovative energy technologies between India and Sweden.

Arun Kumar Verma, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Power, Government of India, said, "India is a growing country and equally contributing to the global Energy sector. Going further, there is a need to add renewables and sustainability solutions. We are looking forward to stronger India - Sweden association and programs to support innovations and new technologies. I wish this initiative by Sweden a success and look for stronger bond in bringing newer expertise and innovations."

Ludvig Lindstrom, Country Head India, Swedish Energy Agency, said, "India and Sweden share the common objective on the need for innovation to cater to the growing need of sustainable and green energy. The India-Sweden Innovations' Accelerator (ISIA) program is a part of intergovernmental cooperation between India and Sweden in the area of new and renewable energy technology. Sweden is one of the most sustainable countries with growing share of renewables and complete carbon neutrality by 2045. Our aim of the showroom is to initiate talks on sustainability and joint innovation, research, development, and deployment in India."

The first exhibition at the Showroom was themed as "Sustainability is Everybody's Business". It showcases how various innovative Swedish technologies introduced through ISIA program, fit into the Indian context along with projects setup by Swedish companies in India. In addition, different systems based on Swedish technologies to track, power quality, energy savings etc. were on display in the showroom.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Communist Party of India - Marxist (CPI-M) in Tripura brought out a protest procession in Agartala against the alleged organized attack by ruling Bharatiya Janata Party- Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (BJP-IPFT) state government on opposition candidates who wanted to file nomination to contest the vacant seats of Nagar Panchayats and Municipal Council in the upcoming by-election.

The protest march that started from the Paradise Choumhuni area saw protesters with CPI-M party flags raise anti-BJP-IPFT slogans.

Former Deputy Speaker of Tripura Legislative Assembly and Ex-Minister Pabitra Kar, who led the protest, said that at various places in West Tripura District, South Tripura District, Khowai and North Tripura District CPIM candidates were attacked and terrorised by the ruling party's supporters and leaders so they either refrained from filing the nomination or withdrew.

Several vehicles of the Opposition party candidates and leaders were also allegedly attacked and destroyed in various parts of the state including in Jirania of West Tripura as they were being used during the filing of the nomination papers.

Kar expressed that the attack on the Opposition is not a good sign of any healthy democracy and throughout the county, there are voices against the BJP and through such protest rallies in Agartala also they were trying to unite and raise the opposition voice.

The newly formed BJP-IPFT government came to power around nine months back ending the 25 years Left regime in the state.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)United States President Donald Trump, after the meeting with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in Argentina, has hinted at a possible halt to the arms race with China and Russia.

"I am certain that, at some time in the future, President Xi and I, together with President Putin of Russia, will start talking about a meaningful halt to what has become a major and uncontrollable Arms Race. The U.S. spent 716 Billion Dollars this year. Crazy!" Trump tweeted on Monday.

Trump further outlined that his meeting with Xi was "extraordinary". "My meeting in Argentina with President Xi of China was an extraordinary one. Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward! Very good things will happen. We are dealing from great strength, but China likewise has much to gain if and when a deal is completed. Level the field!," he mentioned.

Trump also announced his love for American farmers in a subsequent tweet, where he opined, "Farmers will be a very BIG and FAST beneficiary of our deal with China. They intend to start purchasing agricultural product immediately. We make the finest and cleanest product in the World, and that is what China wants. Farmers, I LOVE YOU!"

"President Xi and I have a very strong and personal relationship. He and I are the only two people that can bring about massive and very positive change, on trade and far beyond, between our two great Nations. A solution for North Korea is a great thing for China and ALL!," the US President noted.

The US President's comments come after he announced that China had agreed to reduce and remove tariffs, which currently stand at 40 per cent, on US-made cars that are exported to China.

Trump met Xi on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Argentina on Saturday, in what was hailed by experts as a thaw in strained relationships between the US and China.

Earlier, Trump had cancelled his pre-planned meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Buenos Aires, citing the Kerch Strait incident in which the US has extended its support to Ukraine.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)United States President Donald Trump reiterated his resolve on the illegal entry of migrants through its southern border with Mexico and reissued threats about closing the border.

"We would save Billions of Dollars if the Democrats would give us the votes to build the Wall. Either way, people will NOT be allowed into our Country illegally! We will close the entire Southern Border if necessary. Also, STOP THE DRUGS!," Trump tweeted on Monday.

Trump has come under a lot of criticism for his handling of the Latin American migrants, including women and children, who tried crossing the border fence on November 25.

He had ordered for tear gas to be used to contain the situation, in a move that was widely criticised by national media and celebrities like Rihanna who labelled the act as "terrorism".

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Iranian-aligned Houthi rebels have captured an employee of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) on Sunday in the port city of Al Hudaydah, Yemeni Minister of Information Moammar Eryani has said.

Sputnik cited Eryani, who personally took to Twitter, saying, "The Houthi militia in the city of Al Hudaydah has detained Muhammad Shaybani, a specialist of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights."

The international community and the UN special envoy for Yemen are calling for a decisive position on the actions of the Houthis, he added.

Yemen has been witnessing a political crisis in recent years, especially between the government forces led by President Abd Rabbuh Mansour Hadi and the Houthi rebels. The Saudi-led coalition has been carrying out airstrikes against the Houthis at Hadi's request since March 2015.

The strife has reportedly claimed around 10,000 lives and displaced a thousand others so far.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A United Nations jet will evacuate as many as 50 wounded Houthi rebels in Yemen following UN ambassador to Yemen Martin Griffiths' request.

According to a Saudi-UAE coalition fighting Yemen's Houthi movement, the rebels will be taken for treatment to Oman's capital Muscat, reported Al Jazeera.

Griffiths requested the arrangement as a goodwill gesture in the run-up to planned peace talks in Sweden.

"A UN chartered plane will arrive at Sanaa international airport Monday to evacuate 50 wounded combatants accompanied by three Yemeni doctors and a UN doctor, from Sanaa to Muscat," stated coalition spokesperson Turki al-Maliki in a statement carried by the official Saudi Press Agency, as quoted by Al Jazeera.

Maliki further said that the United States-backed military alliance agreed to facilitate the medical evacuations at the request of Griffiths for "humanitarian reasons" and as a "confidence-building" measure.

However, no immediate reaction was received from Houthi rebels or the UN.

The strife-torn Middle East country has been engulfed in a conflict since 2015, with regular clashes between US-backed Saudi-led coalition and the Iranian-aligned Houthis that has reportedly claimed around 10,000 lives and displaced a thousand others.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) Antonio Guterres opened the annual UN Climate Change Conference (COP 24) here and pushed all parties to finalise the Paris Agreement Work Programme.

"We are in trouble. We are in deep trouble with climate change. Climate change is running faster than we are and we must catch up sooner rather than later before it is too late. For many, people, regions even countries this is already a matter of life and death," he said during in his opening remarks.

"It is hard to overstate the urgency of our situation," he added.

He further called for reduction in greenhouse emissions and remarked that if we fail, "the Arctic and Antarctic will continue to melt, corals will bleach and die, the oceans will rise, more people will die from air pollution, water scarcity will plague a significant proportion of humanity, and the cost of disasters will skyrocket."

He underlined that the Paris Agreement Work Programme needs to be finalised in Katowice.

"It is our job here in Katowice is to finalize the Paris Agreement Work Programme -- the rule book for implementation. I remind all Parties that this is a deadline you set for yourselves and it is vital you meet it," Guterres said.

"We cannot afford to fail in Katowice," he remarked.

He further mentioned, "We need a unifying implementation vision that sets out clear rules, inspires action and promotes raised ambition, based on the principle of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in light of different national circumstances."

COP24 is the informal name given to the 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Sir David Attenborough also spoke at the event and rallied for a change to curb worsening climatic conditions.

leaders have collected in Poland for the UN conference to discuss ways to tackle climate change, with major outcomes expected from the two-week meet.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Bank Group on Monday announced that it will be doubling its current 5-year investments to around USD 200 billion in support for countries to take ambitious climate action for the year 2021-2025.

"The new plan significantly boosts support for adaptation and resilience, recognizing mounting climate change impacts on lives and livelihoods, especially in the world's poorest countries," stated the Bank Group.

Terming climate change as an "existential threat" to world's poorest and vulnerable, Bank Group President, Jim Yong Kim said, "These new targets demonstrate how seriously we are taking this issue, investing and mobilizing $200 billion over five years to combat climate change. We are pushing ourselves to do more and to go faster on climate and we call on the global community to do the same. This is about putting countries and communities in charge of building a safer, more climate-resilient future."

World Bank also stated that USD 200 billion is made up of approximately USD 100 billion in direct finance from the World Bank (IBRD/IDA), and approximately 100 USD billion of combined direct finance from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) and private capital mobilized by the World Bank.

"By ramping up direct adaptation finance to reach around 50 USD billion over FY21-25, the World Bank will, for the first time, give this equal emphasis alongside investments that reduce emissions," the statement added.

World Bank Chief Executive Officer, Kristaline Georgieva asserted that climate change has led to the loss of lives and livelihoods.

"We must fight the causes, but also adapt to the consequences that are often most dramatic for the world's poorest people. This is why we at the World Bank commit to step up climate finance to $100 billion, half of which will go to build better adapted homes, schools and infrastructure, and invest in climate smart agriculture, sustainable water management and responsive social safety nets," Georgieva said.

It also revealed that the World Bank will develop a new rating system to track and incentivise global progress.

"Actions will include supporting higher-quality forecasts, early warning systems and climate information services to better prepare 250 million people in 30 developing countries for climate risks. In addition, the expected investments will build more climate-responsive social protection systems in 40 countries, and finance climate smart agriculture investments in 20 countries," the press release stated.

"Our job is to go out and proactively find those opportunities, use our de-risking tools, and crowd in private sector investment. We will do much more in helping finance renewable energy, green buildings, climate-smart agribusiness, urban transportation, water, and urban waste management," he emphasised.

According to the press release, in 2018, the World Bank Group provided a record-breaking USD 20.5 billion in finance for climate action, thereby doubling delivery from the year before the Paris Agreement and meeting its 2020 target two years ahead of schedule.

It will also support as many as 20 countries to implement and update Nationally Determined Contributions and increase engagement with Ministries of Finance in the design and implementation of transformative low-carbon policies.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Headline indices of the Australian share market advanced on Monday, 03 December 2018, as appetite for riskier assets underpinned after Donald Trump and Xi Jinping agreed to a temporary truce (90 days) in the US-China trade. All ASX issues inclined, with shares in energy, materials, technology, healthcare, and financial, realty, and consumer staples issues being notable gainers. At closing bell, the benchmark S&P/ASX200 index advanced 104.04 points, or 1.84%, to 5,771.20 points, while the broader All Ordinaries index surged 106.99 points, or 1.86%, to 5,856.30 points.

Risk appetite has returned this morning on the positive Sino-US trade truce struck at the G20 Summit, a relief for the global economic outlook and a tonic for emerging markets. In a much-anticipated meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping at the weekend, the heads of the world's two biggest economies hammered out a deal that will see them hold off on their tit-for-tat tariffs row, which has roiled global equities for most of the year. The leaders called a cease-fire in their trade dispute, to last for at least 90 days, to allow time to smooth out disagreements over Chinese technology policies that the U. S. and other trading partners consider predatory. Trump will hold off on plans to raise tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods, which were supposed to kick in on Jan. 1. In return, Xi agreed to buy a "very substantial amount" of agricultural, energy and industrial products from the U. S. to reduce its large trade deficit with China.

Shares of energy and material issues were top performer in the benchmark.

Santos continued to lead the gains for energy stocks, up more than 5% after announcing gas from its third and final Bayu Undan well, with the project to deliver under budget and ahead of schedule. Origin Energy rose 3.1% and Oil Search rose 3.2%. Among materials, shares of sector giants BHP and Rio extended earlier gains, rising 2.8 and 2.3% respectively, while Fortescue Metals was up 4.5%. South32 rose more than 5% after commencing bedrock testing at its Balladonia nickel project in Western Australia, while BlueScope Steel surged more than 9% higher on launching a new A$250 million buyback after it projected a 10% increase in first-half underlying EBIT compared to the preceding half year.

Shares of banks and financial stocks were also higher. Westpac, Commonwealth Bank and ANZ Banking were higher in a range of 0.2% to 0.8%, while National Australia Bank is down 0.2%.

Among individual stocks, GrainCorp's shares are gaining almost 27% after the grain handler received an all-cash A$2.38 billion buyout offer from asset manager Long-Term Asset Partners.

ECONOMIC NEWS: 1) Australia's total number of building approvals slid a seasonally adjusted 1.5% on month in October, the Australian Bureau of Statistics said on Monday, standing at 17,070 following the 3.3% increase in September. On a yearly basis, approvals tumbled 13.4%, after sliding 14.1% in the previous month.

2) The Australian Industry Group Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI) slumped 7.0 points to 51.3 in November, indicating slower growth in the manufacturing sector. This is the lowest result since October 2017 but still extends the index's period of uninterrupted growth to 26 months.

CURRENCY: Australian Dollar, seen as a proxy for China-related trades, was up against greenback on Monday on trade optimism after U. S. President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping have agreed to a 90-day truce in the escalating trade war between the two countries. The Australian dollar was quoted at 73.51 US cents, up from 73.15 US cents on Friday.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Biocon rose 0.94% to Rs 628.10 at 9:21 IST on BSE after Pegfilgrastim co-developed by Biocon and Mylan received approval in European Union.

The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 30 November 2018.

Meanwhile, the S&P BSE Sensex was up 192.57 points, or 0.53% to 36,386.87.

On the BSE, 18,000 shares were traded in the counter so far compared with average daily volumes of 1.18 shares in the past two weeks. The stock had hit a high of Rs 634 and a low of Rs 626.30 so far during the day. The stock hit a 52-week high of Rs 718.35 on 26 September 2018. The stock hit a 52-week low of Rs 437.80 on 1 December 2017.

Fulphila, a biosimilar Pegfilgrastim jointly developed by Biocon and Mylan, has been approved in EU. The European Commission has granted marketing authorization for Fulphila to Biocon's partner Mylan. The European Medicines Agency's Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) had issued a positive opinion recommending approval of Fulphila as a biosimilar to Amgen's Neulasta, which is indicated for the reduction in the duration of neutropenia and the incidence of febrile neutropenia in adult patients treated with cytotoxic chemotherapy for malignancy, in September 2018. Biosimilar Pegfilgrastim treatment can be used to stimulate bone marrow to produce more neutrophils to fight infection in patients undergoing chemotherapy.

On a consolidated basis, net profit of Biocon rose 415.55% to Rs 354.70 crore on 36.38% rise in net sales to Rs 1321.00 crore in Q2 September 2018 over Q2 September 2017.

Biocon is Asia's premier biopharmaceutical company.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Headline indices of the Mainland China equity market advanced on Monday, 03 December 2018, on relief rally, after the United States and China on the weekend temporary suspended new tariffs and agreed to try reaching a trade deal within 90 days. In late afternoon trades, the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index added 2.7%, or 69.60 points, to 2,657.79, meanwhile the Shenzhen Composite Index, which tracks stocks on China's second exchange, added 3.4%, or 45.54 points, to 1,383.28. The blue-chip CSI300 index rose 2.9%, or 91.75 points, to 3,264.44.

The Mainland market took heart from the positive Sino-US trade truce struck at the G20 Summit. In a much-anticipated meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping at the weekend, the heads of the world's two biggest economies hammered out a deal that will see them hold off on their tit-for-tat tariffs row, which has roiled global equities for most of the year. The leaders called a cease-fire in their trade dispute, to last for at least 90 days, to allow time to smooth out disagreements over Chinese technology policies that the U. S. and other trading partners consider predatory. Trump will hold off on plans to raise tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods, which were supposed to kick in on Jan. 1. In return, Xi agreed to buy a "very substantial amount" of agricultural, energy and industrial products from the U. S. to reduce its large trade deficit with China.

The White House also said the countries would hold additional talks, with an existing 10% tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to be lifted to 25% if no deal was reached within 90 days.

The moves came following a new reading on economic activity in China, the Caixin Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index, which showed factory activity grew slightly in November compared to the previous month. The Caixin/Markit Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index for November rose to 50.2 from 50.1 in October.

Economists polled by Reuters had forecast a reading of 50.0, the level that separates expansion from contraction.

CURRENCY NEWS: China yuan weakened against greenback on Monday, after central bank set softer mid-point rate, after a closely watched meeting between Chinese and U. S. leaders produced a ceasefire in their countries' bruising trade conflict. The deal agreed to in Buenos Aires by China and the United States halts additional tariffs that were due to take effect on Jan. 1 and was lauded by both sides. Prior to market opening, the People Bank of China set central parity rate at 6.9431 per US dollar, weaker by 74 basis points from previous day mid-point rate. In China's spot foreign exchange market, the yuan is allowed to rise or fall by 2% from the central parity rate each trading day.

CRUDE OIL NEWS: Crude oil prices saw strong gains on Monday Asian trading hours. The international benchmark Brent surged 5% to $62.40 per barrel. U. S. crude futures leaped 5.3% to $53.64 per barrel. The moves in the energy markets came after crude saw its worst month in a decade during November, amid concerns of oversupply and global politics. West Texas Intermediate, or U. S. crude, lost 21% in November, tumbling to its lowest level in a year and logging its worst performance since October 2008.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Key indices erased intraday gains and sink in negative zone in early afternoon trade. At 12:24 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was down 53.59 points or 0.15% at 36,140.71. The Nifty 50 index was down 23.80 points or 0.22% at 10,852.95. Shares of index heavyweight Reliance Industries declined. Realty stocks gained. Sentiment was hit by lower-than-expected GDP data.

Domestic stocks opened on a firm note tracking upbeat Asian stocks and US index futures following a cease-fire on tariffs between Beijing and Washington over the weekend. Stocks held firm in morning trade. Key benchmark indices trimmed gains in mid-morning trade.

The S&P BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.44%. The S&P BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.26%.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was positive. On the BSE, 1194 shares rose and 1139 shares fell. A total of 133 shares were unchanged.

Overseas, Asian stocks and US index futures jumped following a cease-fire on tariffs between Beijing and Washington at the Group of 20 meeting in Argentina over the weekend. Trading in US index futures indicated that the Dow could surge 501 points at the opening bell today, 3 December 2018.

US stocks ended higher Friday, as investors turned positive on the outlook for trade ahead of a meeting between the American and Chinese presidents.

President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping approved the deal on Saturday in Buenos Aires. It offers Beijing a reprieve from a planned increase in tariffs, scheduled for 1 January 2019, on $200 billion in Chinese goods exports to the US Tariffs were scheduled to rise to 25% from 10%. The postponement relies on progress in talks that both sides aim to complete in the next 90 days covering broader issues, including intellectual property protection.

On the data front, the MNI Chicago business barometer jumped 8 points to 66.4 in November to a 4 year high, ending a streak of three straight declines. The survey is often seen as a bellwether for the broader US economy.

Back home, index heavyweight Reliance Industries lost 1.41% to Rs 1,151.70.

Realty stocks gained. D B Realty (up 5.46%), Unitech (up 0.48%), Sobha (up 3.3%), Godrej Properties (up 5.21%), DLF (up 0.73%), Indiabulls Real Estate (up 0.57%), Housing Development and Infrastructure (up 0.49%), and Oberoi Realty (up 4.51%) rose. Prestige Estates Projects (down 1.53%) fell.

Sandhar Technologies rose 3.49% after the company said it entered into a 50-50 joint venture with South Korea's Kwangsung Corporation. Sandhar Technologies said the joint venture is being established for manufacturing and selling interior and exterior parts, plastic moulded parts and accessories for the passenger and utility vehicles segment in a phased manner. The joint venture will introduce light-to-ultra-light, illuminated sliding sun visors and manufacture cargo screens used in SUVs and MUVs and also offer customized black out tapes and anti-chipping tapes solutions for automobile exterior protection and aesthetics. The announcement was made on Saturday, 1 December 2018.

On the macro front, manufacturing operating conditions in India strengthened for the third successive month in November, as healthier inflows of new orders encouraged companies to lift production and input buying to greater extents than in October, data released today, 3 December 2018 showed.

The Nikkei India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) rose for the third consecutive month in November to 54 from 53.1 in October. The latest figure signalled the strongest improvement in the health of the sector in almost one year.

India's gross domestic product (GDP) rose 7.1% in July-September, down from 8.2% in the previous quarter though it still marked a comforting uptick compared to the previous year's 6.3% reading in the same quarter. The manufacturing sector expanded 7.4% following 13.5% surge in the previous quarter while the agriculture sector grew 3.8% from 5.3% in the previous quarter. Trade, Hotel, Transport, Communication &Services related to Broadcasting rose 6.80%, almost matching the growth in previous quarter. Financial, Real Estate & Professional Services expanded 6.30%, easing slightly from a 6.52% in previous quarter. The data was released by the government after market hours on Friday, 30 November 2018.

The combined Index of Eight Core Industries stood at 134.8 in October, 2018, which was 4.8% higher as compared to the index of October, 2017. Its cumulative growth during April to October, 2018-19 was 5.4%. The Eight Core Industries comprise 40.27% of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP). The data was released by the government after market hours on Friday, 30 November 2018.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Sandhar Technologies rose 3.58% to Rs 321.20 at 11:27 IST on BSE after the company said it entered into a 50-50 joint venture with South Korea's Kwangsung Corporation.

The announcement was made on Saturday, 1 December 2018.

Meanwhile, the S&P BSE Sensex was up 88.71 points, or 0.25% to 36,283.01.

On the BSE, 740 shares were traded in the counter so far compared with average daily volumes of 782 shares in the past two weeks. The stock had hit a high of Rs 325.10 and a low of Rs 317.90 so far during the day. The stock hit a 52-week high of Rs 451.30 on 15 May 2018. The stock hit a 52-week low of Rs 295.10 on 5 October 2018.

Sandhar Technologies said the joint venture is being established for manufacturing and selling interior and exterior parts, plastic moulded parts and accessories for the passenger and utility vehicles segment in a phased manner. The joint venture will introduce light-to-ultra-light, illuminated sliding sun visors and manufacture cargo screens used in SUVs and MUVs and also offer customized black out tapes and anti-chipping tapes solutions for automobile exterior protection and aesthetics.

Net profit of Sandhar Technologies rose 32.99% to Rs 26.04 crore on 15.83% rise in net sales to Rs 536.63 crore in Q2 September 2018 over Q2 September 2017.

Sandhar Technologies is an automotive components and systems suppliers, engaged in the manufacturing of a diverse range of products, with primary focus on safety and security systems for automobiles across segments.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Stocks held firm in morning trade after an initial upmove triggered by upbeat Asian stocks and US index futures following a cease-fire on tariffs between Beijing and Washington over the weekend. At 10:28 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was up 167.61 points or 0.46% at 36,361.91. The Nifty 50 index was up 41.80 points or 0.38% at 10,918.55.

Domestic stocks opened on a firm note tracking upbeat Asian stocks and US index futures following a cease-fire on tariffs between Beijing and Washington over the weekend.

The S&P BSE Mid-Cap index was up 0.69%. The S&P BSE Small-Cap index was up 0.51%.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was strong. On the BSE, 1228 shares rose and 714 shares fell. A total of 111 shares were unchanged.

Overseas, Asian stocks and US index futures jumped following a cease-fire on tariffs between Beijing and Washington at the Group of 20 meeting in Argentina over the weekend. Trading in US index futures indicated that the Dow could surge 471 points at the opening bell today, 3 December 2018.

US stocks ended higher Friday, as investors turned positive on the outlook for trade ahead of a meeting between the American and Chinese presidents.

President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping approved the deal on Saturday in Buenos Aires. It offers Beijing a reprieve from a planned increase in tariffs, scheduled for 1 January 2019, on $200 billion in Chinese goods exports to the US Tariffs were scheduled to rise to 25% from 10%. The postponement relies on progress in talks that both sides aim to complete in the next 90 days covering broader issues, including intellectual property protection.

On the data front, the MNI Chicago business barometer jumped 8 points to 66.4 in November to a 4 year high, ending a streak of three straight declines. The survey is often seen as a bellwether for the broader US economy.

Back home, Vedanta (up 3.98%), Tata Steel (up 2.64%), Coal India (up 2.42%), Hindustan Unilever (up 1.96%) and Tata Motors (up 1.48%) edged higher from the Sensex pack.

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries (down 7.23%), Hero MotoCorp (down 0.88%) and Reliance Industries (down 0.7%) edged lower from the Sensex pack.

Biocon shed 0.39%. Fulphila, a biosimilar Pegfilgrastim jointly developed by Biocon and Mylan, has been approved in EU. The European Commission has granted marketing authorization for Fulphila to Biocon's partner Mylan. The European Medicines Agency's Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) had issued a positive opinion recommending approval of Fulphila as a biosimilar to Amgen's Neulasta, which is indicated for the reduction in the duration of neutropenia and the incidence of febrile neutropenia in adult patients treated with cytotoxic chemotherapy for malignancy, in September 2018.

Biosimilar Pegfilgrastim treatment can be used to stimulate bone marrow to produce more neutrophils to fight infection in patients undergoing chemotherapy. The announcement was made after market hours on Friday, 30 November 2018.

On the macro front, India's gross domestic product (GDP) rose 7.1% in July-September, down from 8.2% in the previous quarter though it still marked a comforting uptick compared to the previous year's 6.3% reading in the same quarter. The manufacturing sector expanded 7.4% following 13.5% surge in the previous quarter while the agriculture sector grew 3.8% from 5.3% in the previous quarter. Trade, Hotel, Transport, Communication &Services related to Broadcasting rose 6.80%, almost matching the growth in previous quarter. Financial, Real Estate & Professional Services expanded 6.30%, easing slightly from a 6.52% in previous quarter. The data was released by the government after market hours on Friday, 30 November 2018.

The combined Index of Eight Core Industries stood at 134.8 in October, 2018, which was 4.8% higher as compared to the index of October, 2017. Its cumulative growth during April to October, 2018-19 was 5.4%. The Eight Core Industries comprise 40.27% of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP). The data was released by the government after market hours on Friday, 30 November 2018.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Tata Power Company announced that the company welcomes the resolution by the Government of Gujarat to accept the recommendations of the High Power Committee in giving some relief to Mundra Ultra Mega Power Project that meets nearly 15% of Gujarat's requirement of power at a very reasonable cost. This relief will help Coastal Gujarat Power to continue its operations to meet its obligations to all the five beneficiary States. Though the coal cost is now a pass through, the Company would continue to make losses due to rebate on financing cost and coal mines profit is being passed on to the beneficiary States.

The company expects to get the consent of other four procurer States based on the to the recommendations of the High Power Committee's and thereafter amendment to the PPAs so as to seek necessary approvals from CERC as per the directions of the Hon'ble Supreme Court.

This positive step is in the interest of all stakeholders, including the end consumers, who get 24/7 reliable electricity supply from CGPL power plant. In case these projects were shut down, replacing such huge capacity with alternate sources from the market would not be feasible as the short-term market prices are not only much higher and volatile, the availability of power is certain. Also, establishing new imported/indigenous coal-based power plants would have significantly higher fixed and variable costs and high gestation period and hence, would not offer any solution to immediate power requirement.

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Soyuz MS-11, carrying one astronaut each from the US and Canada and a cosmonaut from Russia, has been successfully launched to the International Space Station (ISS) on Monday and has safely reached orbit, the US space agency NASA said in a statement.

The Soyuz MS-11 launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan to the ISS at 6.31 a.m. EST on Monday (5.31 p.m. in Baikonur). At the time of launch, the station was flying about 250 miles over central Kazakhstan southwest of the capital of Astana, 405 miles ahead of the Soyuz as it leaves the launch pad.

NASA astronaut Anne McClain, David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency and Oleg Konenenko of the Russian space agency Roscosmos began their six-hour trip to the orbital laboratory where they will live and work for the next six-and-a-half months.

"The #Exp58 crew is safely in orbit! I'm grateful to Director General Dmitry Rogozin and the entire @NASA and @roscosmos teams for their dedication to making this launch a success. Ad Astra!," Jim Bridenstine, NASA Administrator tweeted on Monday.

The launch came less than two months after a booster failure forced a Soyuz spacecraft carrying Russian cosmonaut Alexey Ovchinin and US astronaut Nick Hague to make an emergency landing.

The incident became the first failure of a manned space launch in modern Russian history.

The crew arrival will briefly restore the station's crew complement to six as they join Serena Aunon-Chancellor of NASA, Expedition 57 Commander Alexander Gerst of ESA (European Space Agency) and Sergey Prokopyev of the Russian space agency Roscosmos, who are scheduled to remain aboard the station till December 20.

The crew members will also receive the SpaceX Dragon cargo resupply spacecraft set to launch on Tuesday from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and deliver more than 5,800 pounds of critical research and supplies.

"Welcome to Space! The trio is now safely in orbit and solar arrays have successfully deployed on their Soyuz spacecraft. They will now embark on six-hour chasedown of the space station and are expected to arrive later today," NASA tweeted.

--IANS

rt/soni/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) busted a syndicate involved in smuggling foreign currency out of the country and seized $80,000 from it at the city airport, an official said on Monday.

Also, three persons were arrested, the official said.

"DRI officers have busted a smuggling syndicate operating at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (NSCBI). Three persons were arrested while they were trying to smuggle it out of the country," an official said.

According to the agency, smuggling of foreign currency from India has seen a spike in the current year.

Crime syndicates smuggle gold and narcotics into the country and consequently, they were sending foreign currency in cash illegally, out of the country as proceeds of sale, DRI official said.

The gang had a unique modus operandi.

With hidden bundles of foreign currency notes in their shoes, two members of the group -- Sheikh Masiruddin and Md Akhtar Moeni -- cleared security check and waited at the domestic departure security hold area. At around the same time, the third member of the gang, Ziaul Mustafa, entered the airport to fly to Bangkok.

After being issued his boarding pass, Mustafa cleared immigration and customs and entered the international departure security hold area before boarding his flight.

A chained glass door separates the domestic departure security hold area from the international departure zone.

Three accused then met together at this point where the two domestic passengers passed on the currency notes to their accomplice waiting at the international departure side through a gap on this glass door, according to the agency.

Two domestic passengers, then intentionally "missed" their flight and approached the airlines as a case of no-show and to cancel their tickets and allow them to leave the airport.

"The DRI officers intercepted all three persons. On being questioned, they admitted to having done it on a number of occasions in the past," the official added.

--IANS

bdc/pgh/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Former Chief Election Commissioner O.P. Rawat, who demitted office on December 1, has said that rising abuse of money power in state elections was the first and foremost challenge he faced during his tenure in Election Commission.

Rawat said money power and fake news on social media are the major cause for concern on the global level.

"The first and foremost challenge for us is the abuse of money power in state elections. When our machinery seized a lot of money in Tamil Nadu elections, we decided to countermand elections in two constituencies invoking our power under Article 324. That really had an impact and people became aware that this kind of shock too can come," Rawat said.

Asked if Election Commission succeeded in controlling or eradicating the use of money power during polls after countermanding elections in two Tamil Nadu constituencies, Rawat said: "No! Not at all. It is on the rise. Money abuse and circulation of fake news on social media are a major concern not only for India's Election Commission but also elections abroad. They are all worried.

"All election management bodies the world over are seized of these threats. We are meeting each other and sharing practices which can effectively deal with these issues... Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act deals with these issues and it is also under review. But, a lot needs to be done.

"Social media is very responsible for all democracies worldwide because fake news can change the voting behaviour of the people and bring an outcome which is detrimental to the governance," he said.

In a tenure of little over three years as Commissioner and Chief Election Commissioner since January 23, 2018, Rawat said he had a very good experience in the commission and that whatever could be done was achieved in his tenure except for "reviewing and reforming the legal work".

Voting in Left Wing Extremist (LWE) areas and unattended complaints are the second and third big challenges, Rawat said, the Election Commission faced.

"On polling day, political parties keep complaining that nobody comes, nobody listens and nobody responds. To address that, the Election Commission brought out c-Vigil (citizen vigilance) application. Now, the power is in the hands of every citizen. The application can be downloaded on the mobile phone. If you see anything wrong happening, take a photo or video and submit it. It will land in the in-box of the authorities responsible for taking action.

"And they are tasked by the Election Commission to immediately verify the veracity of the complaint and act, such as lodging an FIR or arresting people... responding within stipulated time."

He stressed updating the RP Act 1951. "Our Acts are of 1950-51 vintage. Rules under these Acts were formulated in 1960-61. They have served elections very well, but emerging challenges are of different nature. For the comprehensive review of these laws, the Election Commission has set up a committee and submitted a report to the Law Ministry.

"The commission could not take a call on these recommendations because this whole year was full of elections," he said.

Rawat said the failure of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) is not an issue. The issue is with the newly inducted machines, called Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT), introduced at the insistence of all political parties, he said.

"EVMs' failure rate has come down substantially. It is 0.3 and 0.5 per cent. Staff training for VVPAT, an electro-mechanical machine, has started recently. Failure rates are very high in some states.

"Like recently in Madhya Pradesh's Satna district, the failure rate was as high as 12 to 14 per cent. But on an average, the failure rate is around 2 per cent," he said.

Rawat said he never faced any political pressure in his 40-year career.

Asked about Opposition parties' charge that the Commission was doing what the government wants, he said: "That perception was not well founded."

"Very recently, we changed the time of a press conference for announcing the schedule by three hours because I got a call from the Chief Secretary of Tamil Nadu that two constituencies are going for a bypoll. He requested me not to announce this because there was a forecast about a serious cyclonic storm.

"We postponed the conference by three hours. It was interpreted by Opposition parties that it has been done to accommodate Prime Minister's rally which was not the case," he added.

--IANS

rak/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)After the Patidars and Rajputs, it is the Brahmin community that has come out in Gujarat to seek reservations, approached the Other Backward Class (OBC) Commission on Monday asking it to carry out a survey of the community.

The Shree Samast Gujarat Brahm Samaj on Monday approached former high court judge Sugyaben Bhatt, the commissioner of the Gujarat OBC Commission Commissioner Sugnyaben Bhatt, a former high court judge.

A delegation of the Samaj cited the instance of the Maharashtra Government, which recently announced 16 per cent reservations for the 32 per cent Marathas and promised to bring in legislation for the purpose.

According to the community forum, there are about 60 lakh Brahmins in Gujarat, comprising around 15 lakh families, or approximately 9.5 per cent population of the state.

"About 70 per cent of these, that is more than 42 lakh Brahmins, are not well off economically. The Brahmins in rural areas are becoming backward economically, socially and educationally," said Yagnesh Dave, the convener, Shree Samast Gujarat Brahm Samaj.

"Today we met the commission and asked for a survey to be carried out to find out the economically/ educationally backward among us", he said.

Dave said the commission expressed willingness for the survey and "we also assured them of our cooperation."

Main demands by the community to the Commission was inclusion of some sub-castes of Brahmins under the economically backward class category.

There are currently sub-castes such as the Rajgor, Warngar, Madhaik, Teraiya, Raviya, Mandir and Mehta from the community, which has found place among the Scheduled Castes (SC), he said.

The other demands were recruiting Brahmin youth in Sanskrit Universities for courses in 'Karmkand' (rituals).

--IANS

desai/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)With the quality of air oscillating between "poor" and "very poor", the Green Tribunal (NGT) on Monday asked the to deposit Rs 250 million with the Central Control Board (CPCB) for its failure to curb air in the city.

"Despite clear directions by the tribunal, there is hardly any action for compliance of orders and continues unabated in blatant violation of the law and under the nose of the authorities who have hardly done anything concrete except furnishing excuses and helplessness," a bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel said.

The bench also asked the (AAP) government to furnish a performance guarantee of Rs 250 million with the CPCB to ensure that there is no further lapse in this regard.

Meanwhile, the AAP has hit back by saying that the uproar on the issue of air pollution has been restricted to Delhi.

"Pollution has always been made a Delhi-centric issue despite NASA satellite images showing large-scale stubble burning in other parts of the country," AAP's East Delhi Lok Sabha in-charge Atishi told the media here.

She added that the is doing its bit to curb air pollution in the city and "is working on bringing e-vehicles and e-buses for the same".

The green panel, however, said that even after over four-and-a-half years, the complaint of the aggrieved parties is that the pollution caused by the unregulated handling of plastic continues to remain unabated.

The tribunal was hearing pleas filed by Mundka village resident Satish Kumar and Tikri-Kalan native Mahavir Singh, alleging that pollution has been caused by burning of plastic, leather, rubber, motor engine oil and continuous operation of illegal industrial units dealing with such items on agricultural land in Mundka and Neelwal villages.Days after he said that President was his "captain" and not the Punjab Chief Minister, on Monday described Captain a "fatherly figure" and said he will sort out the issue with him.

"You don't wash dirty linen in public. He (Amarinder Singh) is a fatherly figure. I love him. I respect him. I will sort it out myself," Sidhu told reporters when asked if he will apologise to

The controversy erupted when Sidhu in Hyderabad called President his "captain" and Amarinder an "Army Captain". His remarks came a day after he returned from Pakistan after attending the ground-breaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor.

After Sidhu's remarks, many Punjab Ministers sought his dismissal from the Punjab government and asked him to apologise to the Chief Minister.Ahead of his visit to Telangana, President said on Monday that the state was born out of "idealism", but in the last four years the "arrogance and corruption" of the BJP and ruling has made the people "cynical".

"Telangana was born of idealism and great dreams. But, four years of (Telangana Rashtra Samithi) or BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) incompetence, arrogance and corruption has made the people cynical," Gandhi tweeted.

"I am in Telangana today to address public meetings and to assure the great people of this state that the will help fulfil their dreams."



Telangana was born of idealism & great dreams. But, 4 yrs. of TRS/BJP incompetence, arrogance & corruption has made the people cynical.



I am in Telangana today to address public meetings & to assure the great people of this state that the will help fulfil their dreams. pic.twitter.com/Kx5MkPyPcH  (@RahulGandhi) December 3, 2018

is the BJP's "B" team & KCR operates as Mr Modi's, Telangana Rubber Stamp.



Owaisi's, AIMIM is the BJP's "C" team, whose role is to split the anti BJP/ KCR vote.



Great people of Telangana, Modi, KCR & Owaisi are one. They speak in twisted tongues. Do not be fooled by them! pic.twitter.com/yIt6vlC6Wh  (@RahulGandhi) December 3, 2018

With barely two more days left for campaigning to end in Telangana, Gandhi will address two public meetings in the state on Monday.

Elections to the 119-member Assembly are scheduled for December 7. Counting of votes will take place on December 11.No further details about the circumstances of his death were immediately available.

At Mrs Bush's funeral, son and former Florida governor Jeb Bush said he believed the last time his mother got sick that his dad got sick on objective so he could be with her.

Bush's eldest son, George W. Bush, served as governor of Texas and became the 43rd president of the United States - the first father and son presidents since John and John Quincy Adams. Before getting the keys to the White House, he served eight years as the vice president of Republican icon Ronald Reagan.

Clinton, who defeated Bush in the 1992 presidential election, says he was always struck by Bush's "innate and genuine decency" and by his devotion to his wife Barbara and his family.

Former First Lady Barbara Bush died in April, at which time the former president had to bury the love of his life.

Bush Snr, a Second World War veteran, was born George Herbert Walker Bush in Milton, Massachusetts, on June 12 1924.

The Bushes had been regular fixtures in their adopted hometown of Houston after his presidency, but public appearances became more rare because of health problems as they reached their 90s.

At Bush clan gatherings, the two reputedly referred to each other as "Forty-one" and "Forty-three", referencing their respective numbers in the sequence of U.S. presidents.

US President Donald Trump has issued a statement, expressing condolences, and praising late Bush's "unflappable leadership", as well as the Republican politician's "authenticity, disarming wit, and unwavering commitment to faith, family and country".

The proclamation hails Bush as "one of America's greatest points of light", a reference to one of the former leader's signature phrases about the impact of American civic culture.

George H.W. Bush enlisted in the Navy on his 18th birthday in 1942, right out of prep school.

His second son, Jeb, launched his own campaign for the presidency in 2015 before dropping out in February 2016. He joined the Navy at age 18 after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, served as a member of the House of Representatives from Texas, was ambassador to the United Nations and later the senior American envoy to China at a time when there was no US ambassador in Beijing, and he served nearly a year as Central Intelligence Agency director.

As he accepted the Republican Party's nomination for president in 1988, Bush pleaded for a "kinder, gentler nation".

At a summit meeting in Malta in December 1989, Bush and Mikhail Gorbachev, his Soviet counterpart, declared an end to the Cold War and talked of a new era of "lasting peace".

But Bush's foreign affairs victories were overshadowed by a stagnant economy at home. Would be the same old thing (remember "read my lips, no more taxes").

In 1944 Bush was the only survivor among his crew when their plane was shot down over the Pacific during a bombing raid. Bush is expected to lie in state in the US Capitol.

They had six children and were married longer than any presidential couple in American history.

Reaction to the passing of President George H.W. Bush is coming in from around the world. In 2005 he joined forces with Bill Clinton to tour and raise funds for regions devastated by the Asian tsunami and, closer to home in Louisiana, Hurricane Katrina, forming a close friendship with his former adversary.An anti-terrorism tribunal in Bangladesh on Monday began the formal trial in the Holey Artisan cafe attack in Dhaka in 2016 that killed 22 people, including foreign nationals.

On July 23, the police had pressed charges against eight members of the jihadist group Jamaatul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) for their role in the attack, although formal charges were framed by the tribunal on November 26, which had also set December 3 for recording statements of witnesses, prosecutor Jahangir Alam told Efe news.

"On the first day, the complainant of the case, a sub-inspector of Gulshan police, gave his statement and defence lawyers interrogated him. The interrogation will continue tomorrow," he said.

Among the eight accused, six are in jail and two remain on the run.

All the six accused had pleaded not guilty when Judge Mujibur Rahman had read out the charges against them on November 26, said the prosecutor.

On July 1, 2016, five armed men had laid siege to the Holey Artisan Bakery for 12 hours, taking dozens of hostages and killing 22, including nine Italians and seven Japanese nationals.

The Islamic State had claimed responsibility for the attack although the Bangladesh government had maintained the attack was masterminded by the JMB.

Between 2013 and 2016, Bangladesh had witnessed a wave of Islamist attacks against religious minorities, foreigners, gay activists, intellectuals and bloggers critical of fundamentalism.

--IANS

soni/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)As the advent of e-commerce has altered consumer behaviour in terms of buying furniture online, overseas shipping of heavy furniture plays a key role in the success of online firms. Experts suggest some tips which can help deliver a seamless experience.

Raghunandan Saraf, Founder and CEO, Saraf Furniture, gave the following tips:

* Rely on experienced packaging solutions and carriers: As experienced packers offer customised solutions that help the goods to stay safe in transit, it is best to choose them for shipping your furniture as it will benefit from proper storage techniques, including securing furniture in a carrier to avoid movement. Skilled carriers also keep furniture safe in shipping containers through block-and-brace tactics that involve keeping the packages safe and tight with similar goods.

* Offer free and visible shipping process: A lot of online customers overseas prefer free shipping on their furniture purchases. So it will be a smart move to create a certain pricing structure that is inclusive of the shipping charges. This will enable you to offer your customers the desired free-shipping service of the products. Make sure that the experienced carrier solutions provider partnering with you offers tracking services of the packages for both you and your customer. This will also give you the exact idea of the whereabouts of your furniture at any point in the supply chain.

* Measure and check the weight of your furniture package: Considering it's an overseas shipping, you need your packages to reach its destination safe and secure with no extra charges as it will end up being a burden for the customers. Hence, make sure that your large or bulky furniture shipment weighs in line with the carrier's limits. The size and weight measurements will also enable you to determine the shipping costs prior to accepting the order.

* Ensure faster shipping: As same day delivery is becoming the most favoured norm in Indian e-commerce considering the customers' expectations of fast deliveries, give prior attention to faster shipping process orders through multiple options. This will enable you to stay competitive amid rising competition. There is still a lot of hesitation amongst customers opting for international shipping as it is usually slow. By offering faster shipping you can get a clear competitive edge.

* Stay in touch with your customer for efficient delivery: While you might be offering visibility in the entire shipping procedure to your customers through package tracking options, you can improve the customer experience further through the additional service of staying in touch with them via calls, messages or emails. Such initiatives can help the customers in scheduling their package delivery and feeling more reassured about their entire purchase process.

* Offer easy returns: In the absence of a proper and easy return policy, customers may even resist the urge of buying your fabulously designed pieces. So, make sure your return policy is free and easy and that it includes clear refunds and exchange processes.

-*-

Ashish Gupta, Founder - Intrading/Inliving, suggests:

* Bubble wrap is a must: When you know that your pieces are fragile, it is necessary to wrap it with bubble wrap or packing paper. This will surely give a cushioning to the pieces making is less prone to breakage.

* Specialised boxes: Corrugated boxes are highly secured and recommended boxes for international shipping. These boxes have greater stiffness than flat fibreboard boxes and meet the needs of many products being shipped.

* Carton Drop Test: It is a regular part of packaging inspection to evaluate the durability of the box. The procedure involves a series of drops that simulates the shipping environment in which the packed good may be subject to damage. The Carton Drop Test assures the strength of the packaged good through adjusting a certain height with the help of the machine and dropping it from different angles.

* Labelling is Must: It is a must to use a lot of strong packaging tape, labels and markers to clearly identify the content being placed in various boxes.

--IANS

rb/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Poor knowledge of English language of a Bihar Police man almost landed a youth from Jehanabad district in the state behind bars when policeman mistook a family court order for inquiry of asset as an "arrest warrant" and arrested him.

The incident, reported from the Makhdumpur Police Station of the district, has come as a big embarrassment for top police officials in Bihar. The man was released the next morning as soon as the police officials realised their mistake.

Neeraj Kumar, a resident of Makhdumpur Dih, said he was arrested on November 25 from his shop, "thanks to the poor knowledge of local police officials, who can't even differentiate between a normal court order and an arrest warrant".

"I made repeated pleas to the policemen that there wasn't any arrest warrant against me. My lawyer also talked to the police, but they were not ready to listen to anything. I was forced to spend a night in the lockup and produced in the court next day in handcuffs."

Neeraj said when the judge of the court came to know about it after reading the family court order, he slammed the police officials and ordered to released him immediately.

Jahanabad Superintendent of Police Pankaj Kumar said the family court had sent an order to inquire about the assets of Neeraj, but the local police officials mistook it for as arrest warrant.

"A probe is underway into how Neeraj was arrested and action will be taken against those found guilty because this incident has put a question mark on the functioning of police," said SP Kumar.

A senior IPS officer of the rank of IG admitted that poor English is a big problem among lower rung police officials.

--IANS

ik/nir

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)If mining does not restart in Goa soon, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar knows the kind of "political impact" it will have on the BJP, said state Minister for Agriculture Vijai Sardesai in the BJP-led coalition government in Goa on Monday.

Sardesai said his party Goa Forward, which is part of the ruling alliance, would be joining pro-mining protesters in the national capital during the upcoming winter session of Parliament, demanding speedy resumption of mining in the coastal state.

"CM will play a role. He also knows the kind of political impact his party will have to face, if mining in Goa does not resume at the earliest. So, it should resume at the earliest," Sardesai told reporters here.

Sardesai also accused the government of not being transparent with the people of Goa about the exact possibility of mining resumption.

"...but people should be told transparently about what is happening. Until now that has not happened. Goa's Central ministers are responsible for inter-departmental co-ordination (in the Central government). If they can't do it, they should tell the people that they can't do it," Sardesai added.

The mining issue has been hang fire in Goa, ever since the apex court banned extraction and transportation of iron ore from 88 mining leases from March, while also directing the state government to re-issue mining leases.

The is second time in less than a decade that all mining activities in the state have come to a standstill.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has backed renewal of mining leases in favour of existing lease holders instead of choosing the auction route, has repeatedly reassured that the renewal of mining leases would be facilitated by amending the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act in the upcoming winter session of Parliament.

--IANS

maya/nir

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)China has agreed to cut tariffs on cars it imports from the US, President Donald Trump has said, a day after he negotiated a ceasefire in the trade war with Beijing.

"China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the US. Currently the tariff is 40 per cent," Trump tweeted on Sunday.

But the US leader didn't specify when the change would happen or what the new tariff level would be, CNN reported on Monday. Also, the Chinese government made no mention of cutting car tariffs.

Trump's announcement came shortly after he and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping announced a breakthrough during the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires on Saturday, temporarily pausing the trade row between the world's two largest economies that had seen tit-for-tat tariffs imposed on each other's products.

As part of the weekend deal, Trump agreed to hold off on his threat to impose 25 per cent tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from January 1, leaving them at the current 10 per cent rate.

In return, Beijing will purchase "very substantial" amount of agricultural, energy, industrial and other products from Washington.

Earlier this year, China lowered its tariffs on foreign car imports from 25 per cent to 15 per cent. However, it later imposed new additional tariffs of 25 per cent on American-made passenger vehicles in response to Trump raising the tariff on Chinese autos from 2.5 per cent to 27.5 per cent.

The US leader called his deal with Xi as "incredible". "It goes down, certainly - if it happens, it goes down as one of the largest deals ever made," he told reporters.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin had said the tariffs on Chinese goods could be gradually removed if Beijing agreed to certain concessions, according to the New York Times.

The agreement also came as Chinese auto manufacturers are aiming to enter the US market within the next couple of years.

China is currently the world's largest manufacturer of cars and car parts as well as the world's biggest market for cars.

--IANS

soni/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Chinese government has taken aim at the trend of increasingly expensive and pre-wedding pranks which often turn violent or sexualized.

According to China's Ministry of Civil Affairs, modern are extravagant and can sometimes raise moral issues. Instead, it urged people to celebrate their big day in a more traditional and frugal way, the South Morning Post reported on Monday.

The ministry had a number of phenomena in its sights - including "sky-high" monetary gifts, a need to compete with the neighbours and hazings that often lead to assault and violence - reflecting "rampant money worship" and "declining morality", the report said.

People in are more and more indulging in expensive receptions, elaborate outfits and overseas wedding photo shoots.

At a conference on wedding reform last week, officials said should "better reflect" the country's values and goals and implement " Thought," the President's much-touted political ideology.

Those problems "not only hinder growth and poverty alleviation in rural areas, but also affect the harmony of families and healthy development of society", the ministry said.

Ministry official Yang Zongtao said in an interview on Sunday that grass-roots government bodies would be asked to standardise marriage rites to address these issues.

Authorities would set guidelines on the process of weddings and the number of cash gifts, he said.

Meanwhile, the tradition of playing pranks on the bride and groom is going overboard in China, officials said.

There are regular news reports of wedding-goers carrying out humiliating or violent pranks. There have been reports of brides being forced to mime sexual acts or bridesmaids being pursued to the point of sexual harassment.

Last week, a bridegroom was hit by a car while trying to escape the pre-wedding ritual which involved him being tied up and beaten.

One week before, several bridesmaids were injured by broken glass when the groom's party tried to get into the bride's house by breaking the door with an axe.

"Ceremonies should integrate socialist values and Chinese traditional culture to combat negative social trends and wrong values and instead set an example for society," the Ministry of Civil Affairs said.China on Monday said it was glad to see good interaction between India and Pakistan on opening the Kartarpur corridor, allowing Indian Sikhs to visit the holy shrine in Kartarpur.

Beijing also said the stable ties between New Delhi and Islamabad meant a lot to world peace and hoped that both sides could solve their differences through dialogue.

"We are glad to see this good interaction between Pakistan and India. Both countries are important in South Asia and the stability of the relations means a lot to the world peace and development," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang told the media.

"We sincerely hope that these two countries can strengthen coordination and dialogue properly and address their difference and improve their relations for stability and peace," he added.

Last month, Pakistan agreed to India's long-pending demand to open the Kartarpur border to facilitate visa-free pilgrimage by Indian Sikhs to Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara, where Sikhism's founder Guru Nanak Dev spent the last 18 years of his life.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan performed the groundbreaking ceremony on November 28 to develop the Kartarpur corridor to link Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur in India with Kartarpur gurdwara in the presence of Indian Ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Hardeep Puri and Congress party leader Navjot Singh Sidhu.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)China's warships have intensified their patrols through the Taiwan Strait this year, Taiwan's Defence Ministry said on Monday.

Taiwan is continuing to be vigilant and will protect its national security if required, the ministry added.

The announcement came days after several US warships sailed through the Taiwan Strait, following local elections on the island on November 24, Efe news reported.

This was the third time this year that US ships passed through the strait after similar passages on July 7 and October 22.

In addition to intensified naval patrols, China had also been sending airplanes and ships near the eastern coast of Taiwan more frequently as a warning to the island and its growing proximity to the US.

After the pro-democracy Tsai Ing-wen took office as President in 2016, China intensified its diplomatic isolation of Taiwan and escalated military activities near the island's coasts.

--IANS

soni/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Congress on Monday accused the Modi government of "interfering in the judiciary" and demanded an independent separate parliamentary and judicial probes.

Senior Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi said: "The grave apprehensions of the Congress and the country regarding interference with the highest levels of the judiciary have been proved correct."

Referring to the statement of retired judge Kurian Jospeh, the Congress leader said he had in clearly talked about arbitrary bench selection, external influences by implication, remote control and political biases injected into the system by the government.

His remarks came after Joseph on Sunday in an interview to the Times of India said that four judges of the top court suspected that then Chief Justice Dipak Misra was being "controlled" from the outside.

Justice Joseph, who retired on November 29, said he and the three other senior-most Supreme Court judges felt that Justice Misra was allocating cases to judges with a political bias.

Hitting out at the BJP-led government, Singhvi said: "The accountability owed by this government, which it owes as political executive to the nation, we demand an immediate response from the Prime Minister. We further condemn this unconstitutional, invasive and illegal effort by the government."

The Congress leader said the Modi government had become known for its "dirty tricks department".

"Imagine the implications of the categorical statement of Justice Joseph. Which were those cases where these blatant and despicable initiatives were taken by the government? Who took these initiatives, how many times it was done?

"Our attempts to rein in, to check, to warn against such misadventures has now been proved correct," he said.

Singhvi added: "It establishes the way the government and the ruling party mind works. It proves their complete lack of commitment to the nation and the four foundation pillars and institutions of the nation...

"We therefore need separate and distinct parliamentary inquiry and independent separate and distinct judicial inquiry... to bring all these nefarious activities before the nation."

--IANS

aks/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Delhi government on Monday launched a common mobility card with a tagline of 'One Delhi One Ride' which would enable city commuters to access Metro and bus services with a single card at a 10 per cent discount.

Known as 'One', the newly designed card will be available for sale on all Delhi Metro stations and DTC pass counters from Tuesday.

"The existing Metro smartcards will continue to stay valid but any new card or replacement will be through 'ONE' card," Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot said during the launch of the card at Rajghat bus depot here.

The process of recharging these cards at metro stations will also remain the same with Rs 200 as the minimum recharge value and Rs 50 as the security fee on the card, an official from the transport department said, adding that only the basic design has been changed.

Gahlot, meanwhile, said his department is also considering extending the usage of the 'ONE' card to other modes of transport.

"The commuters should be able to travel from home to office on a single card and hence, we are considering coverage of auto-rickshaws, taxis, RTVs and other modes of transport under this card," he said while talking to the reporters.

The card was launched in the presence of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) Managing Director Mangu Singh, Commissioner of Transport Varsha Joshi, Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) Managing Director Manoj Kumar, Dialogue and Development Commission of Delhi (DDC) vice-chairperson Jasmin Shah and other senior officials of the Transport Department.

The newly designed cards will have a background of cubic grid in bright shades of red and yellow. It will also have a circular unit with sketches of Metro trains, DTC buses, auto rickshaws and Delhi's monuments around it. It will now carry the logos of all three transport operators in the city - DMRC, DTC and the Delhi Government.

Gahlot said that initially, the card had some issues with the Electronic Ticketing Machines (ETMs) in DTC buses and hence, "we were unable to roll it out early but after regular meetings and discussions, we have overcome those issues".

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) minister also said the Delhi government will soon be launching a common application through which commuters can plan multi-modal trips including buses and metro from and to any point in the city.

"Commuters will also be able to see live locations of Delhi buses through that application," Gahlot said.

--IANS

sd/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also offered his thoughts on Bush's legacy, saying the former US president's commitment to his country was clear.

They also credited the former president, who was the USA 41st president and served from 1989 to 1993, with "expanding America's promise to new immigrants and people with disabilities".

In April, he was admitted to a hospital intensive care unit with a blood infection, a week after the death of his wife of 73 years, Barbara. "We had the chance to work together during the time of enormous changes", Gorbachev said in comments carried by Interfax news agency.

In this January 7, 2009, photo, then-President-elect Barack Obama is welcomed by then-President George W. Bush for a meeting at the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2009, with former presidents, from left, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter.

A defining moment of Bush's single term in office was spearheading the military intervention against Iraq's invasion of the small, oil-rich nation of Kuwait in 1991. During the stormy October 1971 General Assembly meeting on the question of representation of China at the UN, Ambassador Shahi and his American counterpart Bush were on the opposite sides. The president's casket will lie in state from Monday night until Wednesday morning in the centre of the U.S. Capitol rotunda.

"President Bush guided our nation, and the world, to a peaceful, and victorious conclusion of the Cold War", Trump said in a Twitter post. He also navigated the United States through the end of the Cold War, with the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Soviet Union, and the reunification of Germany.

Former prime minister Stephen Harper tweeted that Bush was "a conservative leader and deeply devoted family man" who leaves behind an incredible legacy.

Despite his success on the worldwide stage, he was denied a second term over a weak economy, losing the 1992 election to upstart Democrat Bill Clinton, a little-known governor from Arkansas.

"On Uganda's and my own behalf, I join the Americans and the rest of the world to mourn the passing of His Excellency George H.W. Bush", Mr. Museveni twitted.

Bush asked to hear Mulroney's acceptance speech, so the former prime minister read it out to him.Worried that your son or daughter sleep more even during final exams week? If so, take heart. According to a study, students who sleep for eight hours are more likely to perform better.

"Better sleep helped in final exam performance, which is contrary to most college students' perceptions that they have to sacrifice either studying or sleeping," said Michael Scullin, Assistant Professor at Baylor University's College of Arts & Sciences.

For improvement in academic performance, a student does not have to be an 'A' grade, the researchers said.

The findings showed that whether a student was an A, B, C, or D student before their final exam, sleeping eight hours was associated with a four-point grade boost.

"It is worth noting that one student who had a D-plus grade before the final but slept more than eight hours for a week during finals week remarked that it was the 'first time my brain worked while taking an exam'," Scullin said.

Poor sleep is common during finals as students cut back on sleep, deal with more stress, use more caffeine and are exposed to more bright light, all of which may disrupt sleep.

Fewer than 10 per cent of undergraduates maintain the recommended average of 8 hours a night or even the recommended minimum of 7 hours, the researchers said.

The study results were published in the Journal of Interior Design; and Teaching of Psychology journal.

In the study, the students were given extra points if they met "the 8-hour Challenge" -- averaging eight hours of sleep for five nights during final exams week.

The participants included undergraduate interior design students and students in upper-level psychology and neuroscience classes.

Those who opted to take the challenge wore sleep-monitoring wristbands for five days to ensure accurate study results.

"Students who showed more consistent sleep performed better than those who had less consistent sleep. And students who achieved the challenge performed as well or better than those who did not take the challenge," the researchers noted.

--IANS

rt/pgh/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A 25-year-old man was beaten and burnt to death in Bihar's Sitamarhi district for eloping with the daughter-in-law of an influential man of the area, marrying her and then returning to the same village to live together, police said on Monday.

Sharavan Mahto was dragged out from his house in Oralhiya village by a group of men on Sunday.

"He was first beaten up badly. When he fell down unconscious, almost half dead, he was taken to a nearby field, doused with petrol and set ablaze," Sahiyara police station officer in-charge Sanjeev Kumar said.

The police said prima facie it appears to be a fallout of a love affair Mahto had with a married woman of the village.

A few months ago Mahto eloped with a married woman belonging to a well known household in the village. The couple returned after solemnising their marriage. They started living together, Kumar said.

It angered the woman's family. A case of kidnapping was also lodged against Mahto by the family members, who threatened him with dire consequences, the police said.

When Mahto's family informed the police about Sunday's attack, they reached the field and recovered his half burnt body and sent it for an autopsy.

According to Kumar, an FIR has been lodged against 14 accused named in the attack on the basis of statements given by Mahto's family. However, no arrest has been made yet.

There is tension in the village and additional forces have been deployed there.

--IANS

ik/in/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Maharashtra government on Monday said it has become "fashion of the day to make hue and cry about personal liberty" as it contended that in the case of Gautan Navlakha, accused of alleged links with outlawed CPI (Maoist), the investigating officer followed every procedure of law in proceeding against him.

Saying the conduct of Gautam Navlakhs required serious consideration, the Maharashtra police said that though the writ of habeas corpus was not maintainable, yet Navlakha filed the one before the High Court.

During the pendency of the habeas corpus petition before the High court, Navlakhs and others moved a petition before the top court.

The court by its September 28 order while rejecting the plea by historian Romila Thapar granted the protection from arrest for four weeks, giving them time to move an appropriate court.

The Maharashtra police said this in its rejoinder to the response by Gautam Navlakha. Maharashtra had moved the top court challenging the Delhi High Court order granting bail to Navlakha.

The top court had on October 29 issued notice to Navlakha on plea by Maharashtra challenging grant of bail to him by the High court.

The matter relates to alleged singing of "objectionable songs" and instigating comments, speeches sloganeering 'Elgar Conference' by accused Sudhir Dhawale and others at 'Bhima Koregaon Shouryadin Prerna Abhiyan' organised by Kabir Kala Manch on December 31, 2017.

Accusing the five activists of their links with CPI(Maoist), the Maharashtra government has alleged that they misled the backward people and spread radical Maoist thoughts.

As a part of their policy, the members of Kabir Kala Manch, Sudhir, Dhavale and others have made such instigating speech, at various places in Maharashtra that would "create enmity and violence in the society", says the Maharashtra petition.

--IANS

pk/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Maharashtra government on Monday said it has become "fashion to make hue and cry about personal liberty" as it contended that in the case of Gautan Navlakha, accused of alleged links with outlawed CPI (Maoist), the investigating officer followed every procedure of law in proceeding against him.

The court today directed the hearing of Navlakha case in January as Maharashtra told the bench headed by the Chief Justices Ranjan Gogoi that he was not in custody.

The court, however, directed that the chargesheet filed against the accused, Surendra Pundlik Gadling, Sudhir Pralhad Dhawale, Rona Jacob Wilson, Dr Soma Sen and Mahesh Sitaram Raut along with "translated copy thereof and a gist of the allegations made therein be filed on or before December 8, 2018."

Saying that the conduct of Gautam Navlakha required serious consideration, the Maharashtra police said though the writ of habeas corpus was not maintainable, Navlakha filed the same before the High Court.

During the pendency of the habeas corpus petition before the High court, Navlakha and others moved a petition before the top court.

The court by its September 28 order while rejecting the plea by historian Romila Thapar granted the protection from arrest to the accused for four weeks giving them time to move an appropriate court.

The Maharashtra police said this in its rejoinder to the response by Gautam Navlakha. Maharashtra had moved the top court challenging Delhi High Court order granting bail to Navlakha.

The top court had on October 29 issued notice to Navlakha on plea by Maharashtra challenging grant of bail to him by the High court.

The matter relates to alleged singing of "objectionable songs" and instigating comments, speeches sloganeering 'Elgar Conference' by accused Sudhir Dhawale and others at Bhima Koregaon 'Shouryadin Prerna Abhiyan' organised by Kabir Kala Manch on December 31, 2017.

Accusing the five activists of their links with CPI(Maoist), Maharashtra government has alleged that they misled the backward people to infuse radical Maoist thoughts in their minds.

As a part of their policy, the members of Kabir Kala Manch Sudhir, Dhavale and others have made such instigating speech, at various places in Maharashtra that would "create enmity and violence in the society", says the Maharashtra petition.

--IANS

pk/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A father in West Bengal's Murshidabad district killed his 6-month-old girl child over a domestic fight, police said on Monday.

"Farha Sultana was the second girl child. Her mother lodged a complaint on Sunday against her husband for throwing their baby girl on the ground while fighting with her," an official of Salar police station said.

The child was admitted in Burdwan Medical College and Hospital in a critical condition.

"The girl was injured on Thursday and was shifted to our hospital, but she succumbed on Saturday," said Amitava Saha, deputy superintendent of the hospital.

The husband has been arrested, police said.

--IANS

bnd/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Actress Genelia Deshmukh, who is coming back on the big screen after four years with a cameo in her actor-husband Riteish Deshmukh's upcoming Marathi film "Mauli", says she did not realise for how long she has been away from facing the cameras.

Genelia shook a leg with Riteish in the film's special Holi track called "Surf laavun dhuvun tak", which released on Sunday.

Talking about her comeback on screen and working with Riteish after a long gap, Genelia wrote on Instagram: "My God it's been four years since I was last on screen... Did not even realise it. Thank you Riteish for 'Dhuvun tak' and for making sure I did it...had such a blast."

Four years ago, the Bollywood couple also did a similar cameo in a festive track in Riteish's debut Marathi film "Lai Bhaari".

"Mauli", directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, written by Kshitij Patwardhan and produced by Genelia is scheduled to release on December 14.

Not only Genelia, Riteish also had fun shooting with his wife for the song.

He said in a statement: "I would never want to leave any opportunity to work with Genelia. I have actually forced her to do this song.

"It felt great to be dancing together after four years and that too on an Ajay-Atul composition. Hopefully the audience enjoys it as much as we did."

Riteish and Genelia, who were seen together in movies like "Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya", "Tujhe Meri Kasam" and "Masti", got married in 2012 and have two sons named Riaan and Rahyl.

--IANS

sim/rb/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Officials of the Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) and the Gujarat Crime Branch on Monday joined hands with the CID (Crime) to investigate the answer-key leak of the Lok Rakshak Dal (LDR) examinations that broke out on Sunday and four persons were arrested late last night.

Virendra Yaadav, the Superintendent of Police of the CID (Crime) in Gandhinagar, registered a complaint with the police in the answer key paper leak, postponing the exams which were to be held on Sunday.

The examinations were scheduled on Sunday for 9,713 posts of fixed pay constables, LDR, and 8,76,356 candidates were to appear for the exams, coming from not only across the state but also from outside.

Moments ahead of the exams, the police postponed it after getting wind of the answer key paper leak. Vikas Sahay, the additional DGP of Police Recruitment Board, who had himself prepared the question paper, declared the exams cancelled.

Police have arrested four persons in the case, including Yashpal Solanki, believed to be the kingpin of the racket, Police Inspector PV Patel of Gandhinagar Wireless control, one Manhar Patel of Arjanvav of Bayad Taluka (Block) from BJP, a BJP taluka panchayat member Mukesh Chaudhari and a woman Rupal Sharma, an examinee.

According to the police complaint, Rupal, a rector of Shree Ram hostel, was known to Bharat Borana, Wireles Police Sub Inspector (PSI) of the Police Recruitment Board (PRB). When she got the leaked answer keys, she wanted to confirm with Borana if it was genuine or not. An alerted Borana denied to Rupal and immediately informed Vikas Sahay, the chairman PRB.

The leak has also created a huge controversy as an accused, Mukesh Chaudhari, is a Taluka panchayat member from BJP while a BJP worker Manhar Patel tempting the opposition Congress to stage protest rallies across all the six Corporations and all 33 district headquarters in Gujarat. The ruling BJP subsequently both from the party.

According to sources, Manhar Paatel is believed to have good connections in the government. While Yashpal Solanki belongs to Lunawada and works in the sanitation division of the Vadodara Municipal Corporation.

The police believe that the answer key paper might have been leaked from its source of getting printed in Gurugram between the point of paper reaching the examination centres. Each staffer in the process is being interrogated. So far 20 persons have been questioned.

--IANS

desai/vc

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday dismissed Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's "googly" remark, saying that the Kartarpur Corridor opening was not a "double game" but a sincere effort in establishing peaceful ties with India.

"The (ground-breaking) ceremony (of Kartarpur) was a peace initiative. It was a sincere effort. So was the invitation extended to the Indian ministers. It was not a googly for sure," Khan was quoted as saying by Geo News during a meeting with TV anchors and reporters in the capital.

The Prime Minister performed the groundbreaking ceremony on November 28 to develop the Kartarpur corridor to link Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur in India with Kartarpur gurdwara in the presence of Indian Ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Hardeep Puri and Congress party leader Navjot Singh Sidhu.

Qureshi made the remark later, saying that Khan had bowled India a "googly" by taking the initiative of opening the Kartarpur border. His jibe came after External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj categorically ruled out any dialogue with Pakistan, saying talks and terror cannot go together.

Later, both foreign ministers accused each other of using the occasion for political gains.

Sushma Swaraj said that Qureshi's remarks had exposed that Pakistan had no respect for the Sikh sentiments and was doing it all for

"Mr Foreign Minister of Pakistan - your 'googly' remarks in a dramatic manner has exposed none but you. This shows that you have no respect for Sikh sentiments. You only play 'googlies'," she tweeted.

Qureshi termed Swaraj's comments a "deliberate attempt" to "mislead" the Sikh community. He said that Pakistan had taken this initiative in "good faith".

In the Monday meeting, Khan also said that Pakistan remained committed to resolution of the Kashmir dispute with India.

--IANS

soni/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The number of smartphone users is expected to double to 829 million by 2022 from 404.1 million in 2017, projects a new Cisco report.

This proliferation of smart devices will propel India's per capita data consumption to nearly 14 gigabytes (GB) by 2022 from 2.4 GB in 2017, according to Cisco's latest "Visual Networking Index (VNI)" report.

"By 2022, the smartphone data consumption will increase by five time in India -- which proves the dominance of smartphones as the communications hub for social media, video consumption, communications, and business applications, as well as traditional voice," Sanjay Kaul, President, Asia-Pacific and Japan, Service Provider Business, Cisco, said in a statement on Monday.

The Internet is made up of thousands of public and private networks around the world. And since it came to life in 1984, more than 4.7 zettabytes of IP traffic have flowed across it.

One zettabyte is approximately equal to a thousand exabytes, a billion terabytes, or a trillion gigabytes.

In India alone, IP networks carried 108 petabytes of data per day in 2017 and are expected to reach 646 petabytes per day by 2022.

This is primarily driven by the growth in the number of smartphone users, said the report.

By 2022, smartphones will account for 44 per cent of total Internet traffic, up from 18 per cent in 2017.

In 2018, PCs accounted for 41 percent of total IP traffic, but by 2022 PCs will account for only 19 per cent of IP traffic, the research showed.

Saying that more traffic will be created in 2022 than in the 32 years since the Internet started, the report added that India will be a major driver of this with the total number of Internet users reaching 840 million (60 per cent of the population) by 2022 from 357 million (27 per cent of the population) in 2017.

--IANS

gb/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Indian Minister Harsh Vardhan on Monday said the high level of greenhouse gas emission was a major concern and reaffirmed that India would play a "positive, constructive and balanced role" in the UN climate summit.

"Our focus is on shifting to renewables," Vardhan told reporters on the sidelines of the two-week-long UN climate negotiations, known as COP24, that saw governments and delegates from nearly 200 countries in this Polish city.

The talks officially began on Monday with the opening address of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Responding to a question on clean coal, the minister said: "We have an ambitious target of 175GW. We use super critical technology which has comparatively less emissions.

"We have also announced stringent emission standards and we are retrofitting existing coal plants with the latest technology. The ones that can't be upgraded are being shutdown. Close to 52GW of old plants have been shutdown till date," Vardhan said.

He added that India wanted to see the UN climate summit as a success.

Ahead of India's second Biennial update report, which was earlier scheduled to be released by Vardhan at the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change or COP24 on Monday, a projection on India's progress by US-based The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) said India was "on track to achieve the majority of its Paris agreement goals".

The Paris agreement urged each country outline, update and communicate their post-2020 climate actions, known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs), reflecting the country's ambition for reducing emissions, taking into account its domestic circumstances and capabilities.

India's progress on two of its three Paris agreement commitments were to achieve 40 per cent of electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel by 2030 and to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 33-35 per cent by 2030 from the 2005 level.

IEEFA found that India was likely to achieve these two goals 10 years before the 2030 deadline.

For the first goal, IEEFA predicted that installed non-fossil fuel capacity in India will exceed 40 per cent by the end of 2019.

And at the current rate of two per cent reduction per year in emission intensity of its GDP, India is likely to achieve 33-35 per cent of emission intensity reduction targets a decade ahead of target.

To a question on the latest assessment on NDCs, Vardhan said: "We are much ahead on delivering our NDCs. We have already achieved 21 per cent emission intensity reduction, including emissions from agriculture, whereas our NDCs exclude agricultural emissions from its scope."

"We believe we will achieve these goals much before 2022," he said.

"We have set a target but are not waiting for the deadline... Our aim is to achieve targets fixed by the Prime Minister at the earliest. We are conscious of the targets but are even more concerned to achieve it ahead of time."

On the forest cover, Vardhan admitted India was slow.

"But you must have seen that the forest cover increased by about one per cent. New strategy has been formulated for afforestation and we will achieve this goal as well."

Questioning developed countries' commitments, he said: "Our sincerity should not be treated as weakness. All the pre-2020 and other commitments made by the developed countries need to be fulfilled."

He said India wanted to see COP24 to be successful and added that New Delhi would play a "positive, constructive and balanced role" in the summit.

Earlier, Vardhan inaugurated an India pavilion along with the Indian delegation. It will have around 20 sessions, covering issues related to sectors important for climate change adaptation and mitigation.

"One World One Sun One Grid," highlighted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during first assembly of International Solar Alliance on October 2, is the theme of India pavilion.

--IANS

vg/soni/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The summit marks a test of the extent to which world leaders will seek to distance themselves from him.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has met Mauritania's President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz at the presidential palace in Nouakchott where they held a bilateral meeting.

Saudi Arabia, while at first denying any role in the journalist's death, has since acknowledged that he was killed inside the consulate.

But the intelligence agency has "medium-to-high" confidence that Prince Mohammed "personally targeted" the journalists and "probably ordered his death".

But Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met with his Saudi counterpart in Buenos Aires, and again defended the U.S. embrace of the crown prince.

The Saudi Crown Prince and the Mauritanian President also witnessed the signing ceremony of three agreements and memorandums of understanding between the two countries.

Salman, who has been accused by the worldwide community of ordering the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, and Putin, who has faced claims he ordered the nerve attack on Sergei Skripal in Britain, were pictured hand-in-hand during the second day in Buenos Aires.

Unfortunately, Saudi Arabia does not support us.

He said solving the killing would be in the Saudi royal family's interests. It's inner workings are opaque, though, so outside observers have to look for signals or past experiences to gauge how Crown Prince Mohammed is faring in the wake of Khashoggi's death.

Asked if he believed the Saudis, he said: "I've spoken about this a lot".

Following the global outcry after Khashoggi's death, all eyes are on the Saudi prince at the G20 summit.

Saudi Arabia has charged 11 people with the murder, but there is no suggestion it is ready to send them to Turkey.

"They have spent decades trying to build themselves up as a respectable worldwide actor, and the crown prince has just destroyed that with one operation", says Bronson.

Bronson says the crown prince has clearly shown he's not ready for the power his father, the king, has given him, and that key members of the royal family are undoubtedly talking about finding a replacement to the crown prince.

At the end, Macron can be heard saying, "I am a man of my word".

The prime minister says he also spoke directly with Saudi Arabia's crown prince on the margins of a dinner last night in which he discussed the diplomatic discord that has been happening between Canada and the kingdom.

At home, Saudi Arabia's media trumpeted Mohammed bin Salman's meetings with world leaders, tweeting pictures of his encounters, which also included the presidents of South Korea, Mexico, and South Africa.

But the latest revelation of intelligence connecting Mohammed and his aide Qahtani to the killing may increase pressure on the administration to take more punitive steps.

Erdogan said Turkey never saw the killing of the journalist as a political issue, adding that the incident is and will remain as "flagrant murder".The Indian Navy is a dominant player in the Indian Ocean region vis-a-vis China though the latter has advantage in the South China sea, Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba said here on Monday.

Asked how prepared the Navy was for a two-front war with Pakistan on one side and China on the other, Admiral Lanba said there were no two fronts for the Navy and that Indian Navy was a dominant player in the Indian Ocean Region.

"As a far as Indian Navy is concerned, there is only one front and that is Indian Ocean. We don't divide it into any fronts. In the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), the balance of power rests in our favour vis-a-vis China.

"But in South China sea, the same advantages lie with China. So, the balance of power would be in China's favour," Lanba said addressing media persons here.

He said that as compared to the Pakistan Navy, the Indian Navy had "overall superiority under all fields and all domains".

On Pakistan acquiring eight submarines from China, the Navy chief said that India had sufficient capabilities to counter any threat emanating from Pakistani submarines.

"Submarines always pose a challenge. But we have the requisite anti-submarine capabilities to take care of this," he said.

He said that at any given time, there are about 6-8 Chinese Navy ships in the IOR. One is anti-piracy escort force which is there in the Gulf of Aden. It generally consists of three ships, two frigates or destroyers with a tanker.

Besides, they have another 3-4 survey vessels, satellite control ships.

Lanba said in October this year, there was deployment of a Chinese submarine in the IOR, which spent about a month in the Indian Ocean and then went back.

He said that for thwarting piracy in the Gulf of Aden, the Indian Navy had deployed a total of 70 warships since 2008, which had safely escorted more than 3,440 (including 413 Indian flagged) ships with over 25,062 mariners embarked.

The Navy thwarted 44 piracy attempts and apprehended 120 pirates.

He announced that the Navy would be conducting its flagship theatre-level operational readiness exercise, TROPEX, from January-end till early March next year.

The exercise will see participation of all our operational ships, submarines and aircraft as well as units from the Indian Coast Guard. It would also see significant participation from the Indian Army and Air Force.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Supreme Court on Monday asked Malayalam actor Dileep if the memory card of a mobile on which an alleged assault on a noted actress was recorded could be treated as a "document".

Seeking his response to its poser whether memory card could be described as a document under Section 207 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, the bench of Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and Justice Hemant Gupta agreed with Kerala High Court order, holding that the video was too sensitive to be made public.

Dileep is one of the accused in the case of assault on the actress.

The court posted the matter for further hearing on December 11 as senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi said he needed time to prove that the memory card of the mobile was a document.

Rohatgi appeared for actor Dileep.

He cited discrepancies in the police claim to buttress his plea for a copy of the original video of the alleged assault. He also sought to cast doubt on the veracity of the video.

The Kerala High Court had on August 14 turned down accused Dileep's demand for a copy of the video of the abduction of an actress and her harassment at the hands of the perpetrators who took her around in a vehicle in Kochi for two hours in February 2017.

A lower court had in February turned down the same request. The assailants had dumped her near a director's house after committing the crime.

While the Angamaly magisterial court rejected his plea on the grounds of the victim's privacy and that it could be misused, the High Court was convinced that this was a delaying tactic as the trial was set to commence soon.

The abduction took place when the actress was on her way to Kochi from her house. A gang of criminals led by Pulsar Suni, who is the prime accused, took her hostage.

Dileep was arrested on July 10, 2017. After 85 days in jail, he got conditional bail.

A total of 12 persons, including Dileep are accused in the case, while his former wife Manju Warrier, is a key witness.

The actor was given over 700 pieces of evidence in the case, but not the video. However, the lower court did allow him and his counsel to view it.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)China on Monday reacted cautiously to the trilateral meet between India, Japan and the US on the sidelines of the just-concluded G20 summit, saying Beijing was okay to such a set-up if it did not disturb peace in the region.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and US President Donald Trump had a meeting in Argentina's Buenos Aires, an event which came against the backdrop of China's rising influence.

The three countries are part of the so-called Quad, the fourth member being Australia.

Modi, Abe and Trump appealed for an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region where the Chinese presence has steadily grown.

Responding to the meeting between the three leaders, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said: "We remain open to normal cooperation among relevant parties.

"We hope such cooperation will promote mutual trust and cooperation in this region and play a constructive role in promoting the development of peace and prosperity in the region," he added.

The first such trilateral was an extension of Japan and US bilateral and was dubbed as "JAI" -- an acronym for Japan, America and India.

"The three leaders reaffirmed the importance of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific vision for global stability, prosperity and pledged to deepen trilateral cooperation," India's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Criminals early on Monday looted jewellery and assets worth more than Rs 1 crore and the idol of the goddess from a temple in Jamtara district in Jharkhand, police said.

Seven to eight young men broke into the Rani Sati temple on Dumka Road around 1 a.m. "They thrashed me, tied me up and dumped me near a pond nearby," said Pujari Balak, the priest, who was rescued by villagers and police.

While two criminals kept watch at the temple gate, the rest looted the idol and valuables, the priest said.

Angry devotes on Monday blocked the Jamatara-Dumka highway demanding the arrest of the criminals.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) will install a statue of Swami Vivekananda in its campus for his "singular" contribution to "India's intellectual and philosophical heritage," the university announced on Monday.

The decision to install the statue was taken at the Executive Council's 268th meeting held on June 30 last year.

"Jawaharlal Nehru University will be celebrating the singular contribution of Swami Vivekananda to India's intellectual and philosophical heritage by installing a statue of this great son of India," the varsity Registrar Pramod Kumar said in his note.

The statue has been funded by one of university's former student "who is voluntarily managing all the expenses involved in making and installation of the status" it read.

University Finance Officer Heeraman Tiwari told IANS that the university is not spending any money on the statue and that it will installed near the administrative block.

-- IANS

vn/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Slain journalist Jamal Khashoggi, in over 400 WhatsApp messages that he sent to a fellow Saudi exile before he was murdered in October, described Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman as a "beast" and a "pac-man" who would devour all in his path, even his supporters, a media report said.

had sent the texts to Montreal-based activist Omar Abdulaziz, the report said on Monday.

The messages shared by Abdulaziz, which include voice recordings, photos and videos, paint a picture of a man deeply troubled by what he regarded as the petulance of the Crown Prince.

"The more victims he eats, the more he wants," says in one message sent in May, just after a group of Saudi activists had been rounded up.

"I will not be surprised if the oppression will reach even those who are cheering him on."

In almost daily exchanges between October 2017 and August 2018, and Abdulaziz conceived plans to form an electronic army to engage young Saudis back home and debunk state propaganda on social media, leveraging Khashoggi's establishment profile and the 27-year-old Abdulaziz's 340,000-strong following.

"(Jamal]) believed that MBS (the Crown Prince) is the issue, is the problem and he said this kid should be stopped," Abdulaziz said in an interview with on Sunday.

But in August, when he believed their conversations may have been intercepted by Saudi authorities, a sense of foreboding descends over Khashoggi.

"God help us," he wrote.

Two months later, he was dead.

Abdulaziz on Sunday launched a lawsuit against an Israeli company that invented the software he believes was used to hack his phone.

"The hacking of my phone played a major role in what happened to Jamal, I am really sorry to say," Abdelaziz told "The guilt is killing me."

Abdulaziz began speaking out against the Saudi regime as a college student in His pointed criticisms of government policies drew the attention of the Saudi state, which cancelled his university scholarship.

granted him asylum in 2014 and made him a permanent resident three years later.

Abdulaziz first spoke publicly about his contact with Khashoggi last month after researchers at the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab reported his phone had been hacked by military-grade spyware.The Maharashtra government on Monday moved a caveat in the Supreme court urging it not to pass any order on any petition challenging its recent law granting 16 per cent reservation in education and jobs to the politically influential community.

"No order be passed in the above mentioned matter without notice to the undersigned. The caveator was the authorized party who issued the Maharashtra Act No. LXII of 2018 dated 30.11.2018," said the brief plea entering caveat.

The Maharashtra Assembly had on November 29 unanimously passed the Bill granting 16 per cent reservation in education and jobs to the politically dominant Marathas.

The Bill was passed unanimously without any discussion.

The State Backward Classes Commission (SBCC) had submitted its report to the state government on November 15, recommending 16 per cent quota for Marathas under the SEBC category, without disturbing other existing quotas.

Accordingly, they became entitled to the quota benefits under Articles 15(4) and 16(4) of the Constitution.

--IANS

pk/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A mentally challenged man was killed in a Jharkhand village after he hacked two men to death in a fit of rage, police said on Monday.

Roshan Oraon, 23, and Shiva Oraon, 50, approached Suka Birsa, 50, at his home in Nagra village, 40 kilometres from here, late on Sunday to complain about his animals entering their field and grazing on their crops.

Birsa, who was receiving treatment from a hospital for the mentally challenged, became enraged. He attacked the Oraons with an axe and hacked both to death.

As news of the murders spread, villagers caught hold of Birsa and beat him to death, a Mandar police station officer said. No arrests have been made yet.

--IANS

ns/in/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)It took just one phone call from Konkan strongman Narayan Rane to make Maharashtra titan Sharad Pawar rush to meet him at his home in Kankavali here on Monday, setting political tongues furiously wagging.

Once a bitter political foe of Pawar, Rane, the Maharashtra Swabhiman Party (MSP) President, is now an ally of the ruling NDA at the Centre and state.

But that didn't stop the aggressive Rajya Sabha MP (Rane) from giving his senior colleague (Pawar) in the Upper House of Parliament a warm welcome at his home here this afternoon and taking him to a closed door rendevouz.

As tense media-persons and party activists of NCP and MSP waited, after nearly half an hour, the two emerged with smiles - but with nothing to report.

"There was no political discussion -- I have nothing to inform the media," said Pawar with a sly grin, while Rane stood beside him without offering comment.

However, Rane Jr, Nitesh was more forthcoming and said all political parties and their leaders know Narayan Rane's power and influence over the entire coastal Konkan region.

"There's no need for any political discussions. What has transpired between them would be for the good of the state and the country. Let's wait and see how things unfold," Nitesh Rane, a Congress legislator, told IANS.

NCP state spokesperson Nawab Malik remained guarded in his response and said, "Anything can happen in "

"The 2019 Parliament elections are coming. It will be crucial for all. Anything can happen in politics," Malik told IANS.

Pawar has been touring Konkan since Sunday and was slated to pass via Kankavali to Ratnagiri, when Rane's call came, inviting him for a tete-a-tete over tea, according to Nitesh Rane.

The meeting assumes significance coming barely days after the Maharashtra government announced 16 per cent quota for the politically-influential Marathas, and the upcoming elections to both Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly in 2019.

A former Shiv Sena Chief Minister, Rane had joined the Congress and was the chairman of a committee which had made recommendations on the Maratha reservation issue in 2014, and in October 2017, he launched the independent MSP political party.

--IANS

qn/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Even as engagement of technology companies in military projects continues to raise eyebrows, Microsoft President Brad Smith has said that the software giant is willing to "provide the US military with access to all the technology" it creates.

Taking part in a panel discussion at the Reagan National Defense Forum at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California on Saturday, Smith acknowledged that "there is some angst" in some workforces, including Microsoft's, about tech companies' involvement in military contracts, the Los Angeles Times reported.

In June, thousands of Google employees raised objections to a contract that allowed the military to use the company's Artificial Intelligence tools to analyse drone footage. Google then decided not to renew the contract.

Smith said Microsoft was open to hearing the concerns of the company's workers.

This is not the first time Microsoft made its position clear on issues related to engagement with the US military.

In late October Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Smith addressed this issue in a conversation with the employees at the company's monthly Q&A session.

"We believe in the strong defence of the United States and we want the people who defend it to have access to the nation's best technology, including from Microsoft," Smith said.

"We don't ask or expect everyone who works at Microsoft to support every position the company takes. We also respect the fact that some employees work in, or may be citizens of, other countries, and they may not want to work on certain projects.

"As is always the case, if our employees want to work on a different project or team - for whatever reason - we want them to know we support talent mobility," he added.

Microsoft has worked with the US Department of Defense (DOD) on a longstanding and reliable basis for four decades.

"You'll find Microsoft technology throughout the American military, helping power its front office, field operations, bases, ships, aircraft and training facilities. We are proud of this relationship, as we are of the many military veterans we employ," the Microsoft President wrote in a blog post.

Recently Microsoft bid on DOD's Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure cloud project -- or "JEDI" -- which will re-engineer the Defense Department's end-to-end IT infrastructure, from the Pentagon to field-level support of the country's servicemen and women.

--IANS

gb/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Hailing the new achievements in bilateral cooperation in various fields this year, Xi said China and Russian Federation will hold grand and colorful activities to celebrate the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations next year and strive for more visible results in bilateral practical cooperation.

Chinese President, Xi Jinping told Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi in the G20 meeting on 30 November that China was looking to boost agricultural exports to India while increasing imports of rapeseed and soymeal.

Addressing issues of economic interest and climate change, the Prime Minister said, "World Trade Organisation's Doha development agenda has been stalled and we have not seen financial commitment for the developing countries from the developed countries at an expected level since the Paris Accords".

During their fourth meeting this year, Modi and Xi on Friday discussed joint efforts to further enhance mutual trust and friendship between the two giant neighbours. "Our arrangement I believe, will play a big role in promoting world peace and prosperity", Modi said.

Modi said, "I am glad both U.S. and Japan are our strategic partners".

While talking to media, foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said the trilateral meet was a "very warm meeting" and also Modi received compliment from both the U.S. and Japan leaders for the "reforms and development" that Modi has done these years.

Prime Minister Modi, in his keynote address at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore in June expounded India's stand on the strategic Indo-Pacific region. "Prime Minister Modi and the other two leaders were pleased with this outcome".

Talking to reporters, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said there was a "complete unanimity" of views both on worldwide political situation and global economic situation.

India's Prime minister also spoke on the ongoing trade wars between world number one and number 2 economy, saying it has a "collateral" impact on emerging economies.

Modi and Xi also said they were looking forward to the first meeting of the high-level mechanism on people-to-people exchanges in New Delhi in December.

He suggested that China, Russia and India advocate a new type of worldwide relations, keep consolidating political mutual trust, establish partnerships instead of alliances, and strive for a virtuous cycle in major-country relations and win-win cooperation.

"Overall, there was a very positive atmosphere and the outcome of this first trilateral has been very encouraging".

Later, Modi joined other world leaders for a "G-20 Argentina Family" photo. His meeting with the French President came amidst the Rafale deal row.As over one billion people -- roughly 15 per cent of the world's population -- grapple with some form of disability, Microsoft has begun unblocking the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve assistive technologies in several ways, the company's India President Anant Maheshwari said on Monday.

Maheshwari, who had a life-altering learning experience in 2008 when he was afflicted with a severe case of labyrinthitis and vertigo, said nearly 200 million people experience significant difficulties in functioning globally.

"Leaving behind a billion people is contrary to our mission of empowering every person on the planet to achieve more. Inclusion is at the heart of everything we create at Microsoft," Maheshwari said in a blog post on the occasion of UN International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

"Take the Seeing AI app, which turns the visual world into an audible experience," he added.

Leveraging AI capabilities in computer vision for the blind and the low-vision community, the Microsoft app uses Optical character recognition (OCR) to read text, scans barcodes and recognises faces, emotions and objects to describe the world.

Microsoft Translator is another example where people who are deaf or hard of hearing derive immense value from the transcriptions and real-time captioning as well.

"Accessibility checker in Office helps one to ensure all content is accessible to all, with the use of alternative text for images or videos. Whether at work, or at home, the Windows 10 cloud-based platform provides built-in assistive technology that's on the move," said Maheshwari.

For people who are hard of hearing or need help focusing, Windows allows to quiet visual distractions, highlight content in Edge and customize visual alerts.

With Narrator, Speech Recognition and Skype Translator, people with vision loss or limited mobility can easily surf the web, collaborate and communicate real time.

Microsoft "AI for Accessibility" is a new, $25 million, five-year programme from Microsoft for developers globally, including in India.

The programme will put AI tools in the hands of developers to accelerate the development of accessible and intelligent AI solutions for people with disabilities.

Jenny Lay-Flurrie, Microsoft's first-ever Chief Accessibility Officer whose deafness set in at a young age, has a mammoth goal ahead -- to utilise AI tools for accessibility and inclusion.

"Accessibility is all about making anything and everything accessible to everyone. We have several programmes for the disabled, like 'Seeing AI' and auto alt-text features that are helping narrate the world for people who are blind or have low vision," Jenny recently told a group of visiting journalists at the company's Redmond headquarters.

--IANS

na/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Taking a dig at Narendra Modi over the fall in crop prices, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday said the Prime Minister was creating two Indias -- one for corporates and the other for farmers.

"Modiji is creating two Indias. One India is of Anil Ambani, in which Modi gives Rs 30,000 crore Rafale contract though they have no experience of building aircraft. The other is of farmers in which just Rs 1,040 is given for 750 kg of onion that is cultivated after four months of hard work," Gandhi tweeted.

A farmer from Maharashtra who received Rs 1,064 for selling 750 kg of onions sent the amount to Modi a few days ago as a mark of protest.

On Friday, Gandhi participated in a protest march organised by farmer organisations in Delhi for loan waiver and remunerative crop prices.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Days after Congress President Rahul Gandhi accused him of not understanding the fundamentals of Hinduism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit back on Monday, saying Rajasthan will vote on the issue of development, not on his knowledge of Hinduism.

Modi added that unlike Gandhi, he never claimed to have entire knowledge of Hinduism "which can't be grasped even in several lifetimes".

Dubbing the Congress President a self-proclaimed "thekedar of Hinduism", Modi said Hinduism is so vast that even the "rishis and munis" (sages and saints) could never claim to know it in its entirety.

Taking a jibe at the Congress, he said it was not interested in issues related to development but on Modi's knowledge of Hinduism, "which is irrelevant in an election".

"Is Rajasthan going to vote on the issue whether Modi has the knowledge of Hinduism or not? Or will it vote on issues of road, electricity and water?" he asked.

"Not even rishis and munis claimed that they had the entire knowledge of Hinduism. It is so vast that one can't grasp it in several lifetimes. I never claimed that I have that entire knowledge. Only 'naamdar' can make that claim," Modi said in a slanted attack on Gandhi.

Gandhi had attacked Modi on Saturday asking what kind of a Hindu he was that he did not understand the fundamentals of Hinduism. "You please study Hinduism. What does Gita say? It says that knowledge is with everybody. Knowledge is all around you. Our Prime Minister says that I am a Hindu but he does not understand the fundamentals of Hinduism. What kind of Hindu he is? That is the contradiction," Gandhi had said.

Attacking the Congress, the Prime Minister asked where was its understanding of Hinduism when its first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru "opposed the reconstruction of Somnath temple in Gujarat or when the UPA government told the Supreme Court in writing that there was no proof of existence of Lord Ram and he was a fictional character?"

Ahead of the December 7 polls in Rajasthan, Modi said Congress would fail like it failed in other states.

"It is not interested in development. It believes in caste and votebank Congress thinks that it doesn't have to do anything to win in Rajasthan, that people of Rajasthan will go with the Congress following the trend of switching between the two parties in consecutive elections.

"But it forgets that it was the people of Rajasthan that gave Bhairon Singh Shekhawat two consecutive terms," he said.

--IANS

vv/nir

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday told the people of Telangana that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi are all "alike" and urged the voters not to be fooled by the lot in the upcoming Assembly polls on December 7.

Gandhi said that the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) and the AIMIM (All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen) are the Bharatiya Janata Party's 'B' and 'C' team, respectively.

"TRS is the BJP's 'B' team and KCR operates as Modi's Telangana Rubber Stamp. Owaisi's AIMIM is the BJP's 'C' team, whose role is to split the anti-BJP or KCR vote.

"Great people of Telangana, Modi, KCR and Owaisi are one. They speak in twisted tongues. Do not be fooled by them," Gandhi said in a tweet.

Earlier in the day, the Congress chief said: "Telangana was born of idealism and great dreams. But, four years of TRS (Telangana Rashtra Samithi) or BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) incompetence, arrogance and corruption has made the people cynical."

"I am in Telangana today to address public meetings and to assure the great people of this state that the Congress will help fulfil their dreams."

There are two more days left for campaigning to end in Telangana.

Elections to the 119-member Assembly are scheduled for Friday. Counting of votes will take place on December 11.

--IANS

aks/in

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A group of retired Army officials on Monday accused the Modi government of spreading lies over the One Rank One Pension (OROP) issue.

Addressing the media, Major General Satbir Singh, Chairman of the Indian Ex-Servicemen Movement and advisor to the United Front of Ex-Servicemen, along with Randeep Singh Surjewala, the Congress spokesperson, accused Modi of lying.

"While pension of Army men has been increased, the issues pertaining to OROP are still pending," he said.

"Modi has been lying in his election speeches about fulfilling all the demands on OROP. However, the grave reality is that the soldiers are still fighting for their rights," he said.

He said the Manmohan Singh government had on February 17, 2014 promised to bring in OROP but the Modi government was yet to fulfil this promise.

The press conference was also addressed by retired Group Captain V.K. Gandhi who accused the Modi government of politicizing the surgical strike on terrorist camps in Pakistan and thus disrespecting the Indian Army.

Surgical strikes have been happening earlier too "but the Modi government is politicizing this", he said.

--IANS

arc/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tribute to the country's first President, Rajendra Prasad on his birth anniversary.

"Tributes to the first President of India, Bharat Ratna Dr Rajendra Prasad. A man of high talent, and symbol of simple life-high thinking Rajendra Babu will always be a source of inspiration for the citizens of the country," Modi tweeted in Hindi.

Prasad was born on December 3, 1884 in Siwan, Bihar.

He held the highest office in the country from January 26, 1950 to May 13, 1962.

--IANS

aks/ksk

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The (AAP) on Monday blamed the BJP for the deletion of the names of about 3 million "anti-BJP voters" from the electoral rolls in Delhi, saying the party was scared of losing its seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi in 2019.

"Upon analyzing the deleted voters' list, we found that names of people from three communities - Baniya, and Purvanchalis - dominated the list of 3 million deleted voters of Delhi," AAP senior leader Atishi told the media.

This, she said, was a clear indicator that the " (BJP) planned the whole conspiracy" to delete those voters who were unhappy with its governance and were most likely to vote against it in 2019.

"After the introduction of GST and demonetisation, we have seen that the trading communities are upset with the BJP and Purvanchalis are being harassed and beaten up on the streets," the AAP's East Delhi Lok Sabha in-charge said.

Atishi said that in East Delhi alone, "375,000 voters have been deleted".

She alleged that the was working at the behest of the BJP and had uploaded an incomplete list containing the list of deleted voters. "The list was on the website until a few days back but now it has been removed."

She said the Election Commission's website was not accepting forms for reapplication to the voters' list in Delhi for the last three days.

"When you open the website, it is clearly written that the form submission for NCT of Delhi is not available. This raises a big question on the Election Commission," Atishi said.

Giving more data on the number of deleted voters from each community, she said that from Jangpura in south Delhi alone 27,443 voters have been deleted from the list. "Of this, 5,300 are Baniyas, 4,900 Muslims and 8,500 are Purvanchalis."

In Okhla, she said 46,700 voters have deleted -- 30,000 Muslims, 11,000 Purvanchalis and 5,700 Baniyas.

"East Delhi's Kondli has seen the maximum number of voter deletion - 61,000 - and the sole reason for this may be is that a lot of Purvanchalis live here," Atishi said.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that he will meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo later in the day in Brussels to discuss regional issues.

A statement issued by Netanyahu's Office said he will depart for Belgium later in the day, adding that the meeting was set last week, the Times of Israel reported.

The statement said that the Prime Minister and Pompeo will discuss "regional developments" and that Netanyahu will be accompanied by the head of Israel's intelligence agency Mossad, the head of the National Security Council and the Military Secretary.

The meeting comes a week after UN Ambassador Danny Danon told reporters that US President Donald Trump's administration officials had alerted Israel that they had finished structuring a peace plan and intend to present it early next year.

Danon said that Washington had discussed with Jerusalem the timing for unveiling the proposal.

Pompeo and Netanyahu last met during the US Secretary of State's visit to Israel in April.

During his meeting with Netanyahu that time, Pompeo referred to Trump's unpublished plan for Israeli-Palestinian peace, saying that Washington was committed to a lasting peace.

The Palestinians severed ties with the Trump administration after its decision to move the US Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and declare the city Israel's capital.

The US administration has cut more than $500 million in Palestinian aid since the start of the Palestinian boycott.

--IANS

soni/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An international group of astronomers have discovered a supernova that sheds unprecedented light on the initial moments of a violent stellar explosion.

The light from the explosion's first hours showed an unexpected pattern, which revealed that the genesis of these phenomena is even more mysterious than previously thought.

This category of supernova called "Type Ia" generates many of the elements around us but the mechanism that sets off a Type Ia supernova explosion has remained elusive, Xinhua news agency reported.

Astronomers have long tried to get details of the initial moments of these explosions, wishing to figure out how these phenomena are triggered.

Finally they succeeded in February with the discovery of a Type Ia supernova called ASASSN-18bt (also known as SN 2018oh).

The astronomers realised that ASASSN-18bt looked unusual during its first couple of days.

"Many supernovae show a gradual increase in the light they put out," said Maria Drout, assistant professor at the University of Toronto. "But for this event, you could clearly see something unusual and exciting happening in the early times, some unexpected additional emission," she added.

Type Ia supernovae are thought to originate from the thermonuclear explosion of a white dwarf star, the dead core left over by a Sun-like star after it exhausts its nuclear fuel.

Therefore, material must be added to the white dwarf from a companion star to trigger the explosion, but the nature of the companion star and how the fuel is transferred has long been debated.

Scientists have presumed that additional light seen during the supernova's early times could be from the exploding white dwarf colliding with the companion star.

However, ASASSN-18bt's early brightness does not quite fit predictions, according to the study, published in the latest The Astrophysical Journal.

The new discovery supported a new hypothesis that there might be two distinct populations of Type Ia supernovae, those that show early emission and those that do not, without the need for a nearby star.

"We are finding that supernova explosions are more complicated than we previously thought," said the study's lead author Ben Shappee with University of Hawaii.

--IANS

rt/in

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A war of words between Pinarayi Vijayan and Leader of Opposition Ramesh Chennithala escalated on Monday when the Kerala Chief Minister told the latter that the Congress' state unit was following the diktats of BJP's national chief Amit Shah, and not party President Rahul Gandhi anymore.

The Chief Minister said that ever since the September 28 verdict of the Supreme Court allowing all women to pray at the Lord Ayyappa shrine, the protests in the state showed "who was Chennithala's leader. It is not Rahul Gandhi, but Amit Shah".

Vijayan was replying to an accusation made by Chennithala that RSS leader Valsan Thillenkary has been given a free hand to run the show on the hallowed 18 steps of Sabarimala temple last month.

The proceedings inside the Assembly turned chaotic within minutes after the session was convened, forcing the Speaker to wrap up the business in less than half an hour.

At the outset of the question hour, Chennithala had said the Congress would cooperate with Speaker P. Sreeramakrishnan, but announced that three of its legislators would commence an indefinite hunger strike in front of the Assembly's main door to protest the Vijayan government's callous attitude by refusing the party's demands in Sabarimala town, where they had been pressing for an end to prohibitory orders.

Vijayan immediately retorted saying that there was no difference between the saffron brigade and the Congress. "While the Bharatiya Janata Party was stationed in front of the state secretariat, you have started it here. This clearly shows the relation you have with the BJP/RSS," Vijayan added.

"One cannot cheat all the people all the time and now you have been exposed, as you have become the closest buddy of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh," said Vijayan, that was greeted with loud thumping by the treasury benches.

To which, Chennithala replied: "Everyone saw how RSS leader Valsan Thillenkary was controlling things standing at the hallowed 18 steps of Sabarimala temple in November."

But Chennithala was prevented from ending his discourse as the Speaker said the question hour cannot be turned into a debating session.

This infuriated the opposition MLAs who immediately rushed towards the Speaker's podium and started shouting slogans.

Angry young legislators from the treasury benches were also up on their feet and started advancing towards the podium. However, timely intervention by State Transport Minister A.K. Saseendran avoided a clash as he pulled his party colleagues back.

When the sloganeering increased, Sreeramakrishnan asked the opposition to return to their benches, warning that he would be forced to adjourn the house.

With things refusing to subside, the Speaker was forced to rush through the listed business of the day in 21 minutes and adjourn the House till Tuesday.

This was a repeat of last week, when for three days in a row, the assembly ended in chaos. The Congress-led opposition's kept repeating its demand of suspension of the question hour allowing adjournment to discuss the "poor facilities" and an end to the prohibitory orders in Sabarimala, which were refused everyday by the Speaker.

As the House was adjourned, V.S. Sivakumar (Congress), Parakal Abdullah (IUML) and N. Jayaraj (Kerala Congress -Mani) began their indefinite hunger strike and the entire opposition joined them.

The prohibitory orders clamped in the temple town were earlier extended till Tuesday midnight, even though they were earlier set to end by November 30 midnight.

The orders were clamped to allow smooth visit to the hilltop temple after the two month long pilgrim session began just days after the apex court on November 13 refused to reconsider its September verdict.

The Kerala government has promised to implement the court's verdict that struck down a hitherto tradition of not allowing girls and women within 10-50 years from visiting the temple.

--IANS

sg/in

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Qatar is withdrawing from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) as of January 2019, Saad al-Kaabi, the country's energy minister said on Monday.

The state petroleum agency that reported the news said that the body had been informed of the move.

The tiny, energy-rich Arab nation of Qatar announced on Monday it would withdraw from OPEC, mixing its aspirations to increase production outside of the cartel's constraints with the politics of slighting the Saudi-dominated group amid the kingdom's boycott of Doha. He also said Qatar wants to raise its oil production from 4.8 million barrels of oil equivalent a day to 6.5 million barrels.

The decision was made after Qatar reviewed ways to enhance its role internationally and plan its long-term strategy, al-Kaabi also said.

The decision to quit the bloc of 15 oil-producing countries that account for nearly half of the world's oil production was confirmed by Qatar Petroleum, the country's state oil company.

Kaabi said Qatar, the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, planned to increase its exports from 77 million tons of gas per year to 110 million tons.

"The nature of the animal as far as Opec is concerned is the bigger production capacity you have then the more weight you carry", said Vandana Hari, founder and chief executive of Vanda Insights.

Quicktake: Why are oil prices plunging?

Qatar has spend the last year-and-a-half battling attempts by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (both of them are members of the Opec) to isolate it in the Middle East.

Qatar has announced that it will leave OPEC next month.The Odisha government on Monday signed a loan agreement of $85 million with Asian Development Bank (ADB) to train 1.5 lakh youths in the state, officials said.

With this assistance, youths in the age group of 15-34 years will be given skill development training to make them competent to get better work and higher paying jobs, a government statement said.

The total cost of the project is $193 million with the Odisha government contributing $108 million, it added.

In addition, the Japanese government will provide technical aid for capacity building through the Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction.

The ADB would also provide $2 million as technical assistance for capacity building component of the project.

In the project, the Odisha Skill Development Authority and ITE Education Services, Singapore will cooperate in the establishment and operation of World Skills Centre (WSC) in Bhubaneswar.

Training programmes at WSC have been designed to cater to the requirement of the industry through experiential learning.

The WSC would also act as a hub for all the Spoke ITIs to train the youths, advising on the curriculum development and developing the infrastructure of the ITIs.

The project aims to significantly reduce unemployment and under-employment rates in Odisha by 2025, it said.

--IANS

cd/pgh/sed

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Preparing the pitch for a 'Mahagatbandhan' (Grand Alliance) ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, opposition parties will meet here on December 10, a day before Parliament opens its winter session and the results of Assembly elections in five states are known.

The driving force behind the gathering is Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, who has been making efforts to put together an anti-BJP front after walking out of the Modi government.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, former Union Minister Sharad Yadav, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah, Samajwadi Party leader Ram Gopal Yadav and leaders of other opposition parties are likely to attend the meeting to be held at Constitution Club in the heart of Delhi.

The meeting will focus on the form and structure of the proposed opposition alliance and a course of action to take forward the initiative.

A plan of action is likely to be drafted to fight the Modi government over its alleged anti-people policies like misuse of institutions like RBI, CBI, CVC and the Income Tax department to settle scores with political rivals, an opposition leader told IANS.

He said the meeting would also discuss on the sidelines how to corner the government in Parliament on issues related to farmers, demonetisation and the controversial Rafale deal.

TDP chief Naidu has met Rahul Gandhi, Nationalist Congress Party's Sharad Pawar, DMK's M.K. Stalin, Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee, Farooq Abdullah, former Prime Minister and Janata Dal-Secular chief H.D. Deve Gowda and Bahujan Samaj Party leader Mayawati.

The meeting comes a day ahead of the vote count of Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Rajasthan and Mizoram.

The elections are being dubbed the semifinal of next year's general elections.

Last week, opposition leaders gathered here at a farmers rally. The Congress President and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal shared the stage together and accused the Modi government of plunging the country into an acute agrarian crisis.

--IANS

aks/bns/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An impressive line-up of 350 artistes and public intellectuals, including the winners of several major literary awards, will participate in the upcoming edition of the Zee Jaipur Literature Festival from January 24 to 28, 2019 in the Pink City, the organisers said on Monday.

The list includes Nobel laureate Venki Ramakrishnan, author of 'Gene Machine: The Race to Decipher the Secrets of the Ribosome' which unlocks the mysteries of the gene-reading molecule; Ben Okri, writer of Man-Booker-winning 'The Famished Road'; Colson Whitehead, author of six novels and winner of the 2016 National Book Award for Fiction and the 2017 Pulitzer for 'Underground Railroad'; and Priyamvada Natarajan, a cosmologist noted for her work in mapping dark matter, dark energy, and black holes, a Professor at Yale.

"JLF has, through the last decade, helped articulate and foster a unique literary and creative culture across the world. Our programme remains determinedly diverse and multilingual, with over 16 Indian languages, 12 international languages, and almost 30 nationalities represented at Jaipur this January," said author and festival co-director Namita Gokhale.

She emphasized that the 2019 edition will bring to fore the importance of science, genetics, astronomy and astrophysics, artificial intelligence, and what the future holds for the planet.

"We also explore music, poetry and the arts, and delve into fiction, short stories, adaptations and translations. We examine different facets of myth, memory and religion. We interrogate rural distress, think aloud about migration and identity, and reflect on the ongoing struggles for gender equity, from the landmark judgement on section 377 to the tumultuous watershed of the #metoo movement," added Gokhale.

Diplomat Navtej Sarna in 'The Post American World' will elaborate on how the growth of India, China, Brazil, Russia and Africa is generating a new landscape and will soon push the West out of its position of complacence and hegemony to one that recognises this seismic power shift.

Sarna will be joined by Kishwar Desai, author of 'Jallianwala Bagh, 1919' to seek the backstory of that fateful day of April 13, 1919 a century after; and Ira Mukhoty, author of 'Daughters of the Sun: Empresses, Queens and Begums of the Mughal Empire', will discuss Nur Jehan and the other indomitable Mughal women who in many ways defined that era.

The annual festival is organized by Teamwork Arts, which is headed by Sanjoy K. Roy, and produces several such festivals in India and abroad. Acclaimed historian and writer William Dalrymple is co-director of the festival along with Gokhale.

--IANS

ss/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A police inspector was killed in Bulandshahr district in Uttar Pradesh on Monday after violence broke out in the aftermath of an alleged case of cow slaughter, police said.

Senior police officials have rushed to the crime scene to contain the violence, which threatens peace in the entire region.

According to information here, members of several Hindu groups with an alleged cow carcass gathered on the Bulandshahr-Syana road and pelted stones at the police personnel.

The Hindu Yuva Vahini and Bajrang Dal activists also vandalized vehicles and attacked police officials. They torched several passing vehicles.

In the violence, Inspector Subodh Singh of Syana police station and four constables were injured. The profusely bleeding inspector was rushed to the Aurangabad community health centre (CHC) where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

District Magistrate Anuj Jha confirmed the death of the police officer.

--IANS

md/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A police officer and a civilian were killed in violence that rocked Bulandshahr district in Uttar Pradesh on Monday after Hindu activists went berserk alleging that a cow had been slaughtered, police said.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to probe the matter and submit a report to the Uttar Pradesh government at the earliest, an official spokesman said.

Additional Director General of Police Anand Kumar said the station house officer of Syana, Subodh Kumar Singh, was attacked and injured critically as Hindu activists brought the alleged carcass of the cow on to the road, jammed traffic and stoned police personnel.

The police officer and some constables were rushed to a medical facility where he was declared dead, District Magistrate Anuj Jha said.

In the police firing that followed, a youth, Sumit Anand, was shot. He succumbed to the gunshot wounds in a hospital.

Senior police officials have reached the crime scene to ensure that the tension abates.

--IANS

md/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A police Inspector was attacked and shot dead by a Hindu mob protesting against alleged cow slaughter while a young man was gunned down in unexplained circumstances here in Uttar Pradesh on Monday.

The violence erupted after Hindu activists went berserk alleging that some cows had been slaughtered by a community, police said. Enraged, they loaded the carcasses on tractor trolleys and jammed traffic on a busy road.

A police team lead by Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh rushed to the scene to pacify the protesters drawn from the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Hindu Yuva Vahini and other right-wing Hindu groups.

He was, however, targeted and the crowd pelted stones at the police personnel, critically wounding the officer. The officer was also shot in the head and was declared dead at a community health centre.

In the melee, the crowd set on fire many police vehicles while passersby were also attacked.

Shots were fired by unidentified assailants in which a local youth, Sumit, was hit and he succumbed to his injuries.

Heavy reinforcements - five companies of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and six companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) - were rushed to the spot.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and directed Additional Director General (Intelligence) S.B. Shiradkar to present a detailed report within two days.

There were conflicting reports on how the inspector was killed.

While some sources said the police officer was attacked by blunt objects and stones, a video doing the rounds on social media showed the slain officer hanging upside down from his official vehicle, apparently shot in the head.

In the same video, apparently shot by locals, youths are seen running around the vehicle and identifying that the SHO has been shot. They run away thereafter and converge on the main road mouthing obscenities.

A post-mortem report later confirmed that the officer suffered both gunshot injuries and was also hit by a hard and blunt object. The officer had probed the lynching of a Muslim man in Dadri, also over allegations of cow slaughter.

--IANS

md/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)From farm loan waiver up to Rs 200,000 to unemployment allowance and from doubling security pensions to free cows, laptops and bicycles, major political parties in debt-ridden Telangana are promising the moon to the voters.

The main contenders of power have made a whole lot of promises like 100,000 jobs in first year, hiking retirement age of government employees from 58 years to 61 years, financial assistance for the marriage of poor girls and grants for women self-help groups.

India's youngest state may be under a huge burden of public debts but this has not deterred the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), the Congress-led People's Front and (BJP) from promising all sorts of freebies to voters for December 7 elections to the Telangana Assembly.

Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao told the Assembly in March that the state's debts stood at Rs 1.42 trillion. The opposition parties, however, claimed during the poll campaign that this was Rs 2.5 trillion.

The TRS, which was already under fire from the opposition for not fulfilling most of the promises made in 2014, was the last party to release its manifesto. KCR released the document at an election rally in Hyderabad on Sunday.

KCR has been claiming that Telangana is number one in the country in terms of welfare. The TRS government claims to be spending a whopping Rs 400 billion annually on social welfare pensions and other

The government is spending Rs 130 billion a year on pensions alone but with all the main parties promising to hike the pension amount, it is estimated that the allocation will have to be doubled.



Read our full coverage on Telangana Assembly elections 2018

The parties have vied with each other in promising the sops to the farm sector. If TRS promised farm loan waiver up to Rs 100,000, both the and BJP promised loan waiver up to Rs 200,000.

The ruling party also assured that financial assistance to farmers as input subsidy under 'Rythu Bandhu' scheme will be increased from Rs 8,000 per acre per year to Rs 10,000.

The promised Market Intervention Fund of Rs 50 billion and minimum guaranteed prices for 17 major crops.

ALSO READ: Muslim votes likely to swing either way in Telangana but odds are with TRS

The BJP has promised free bore-well or well or pump set for each farmer. BJP's promises also include distribution of 100,000 cows annually during festivals, free laptops for all students pursuing under-graduate courses and free cycles to all girl-students from class 7 to 10.

In addition to creation of 100,000 jobs in the first year, the promised unemployment allowance of Rs 3,000 per month to jobless youth. The TRS assured that every unemployed youth will get a dole of Rs 3,016 per month while the BJP promised unemployed stipend of Rs 3,116.

The Congress promised financial assistance of Rs 1,50,116 for the marriage of poor girls against Rs 100,116 being provided by the TRS government under 'Kalyan Lakshmi' scheme. The BJP said each girl will get Rs 100,000 cash and one tola of gold at the time of marriage.

The Congress said that all Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) will be given a grant of Rs 100,000 each. Each SHG will be permitted to get a bank loan of Rs 1 million, for which the interest will be paid by the government.

The BJP declared interest free loans of Rs 500,000 to women SHGs. They will also get free smartphones.

The Congress has pledged free treatment up to Rs 500,000 for all diseases under 'Araogyasri'. A 20-30 bed hospital will be built in each 'mandal' (block).

The BJP assured Rs 50 million health insurance cover for all under Ayushman Bharat Yojna and generic medicines in all mandals.

The TRS promised that double bed-room housing scheme for poor will continue and those who own plots will be provided financial assistance of Rs 5-6 lakh to build the house.

The Congress also promised Rs 500,000 assistance. The BJP promised houses for all eligible people by 2022 and till then, the government would give Rs 5,000 rent every month.The Punjab cabinet on Monday passed a special resolution to set up a Dera Baba Nanak Development Authority to develop and beautify the area in and around Dera Baba Nanak town ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Sikhism's founder, Guru Nanak Dev.

The 550th birth anniversary will take place in November next year and the year-long celebrations were kicked off by the government on 'Gurpurb' on November 23.

The Punjab cabinet, which met under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday, welcomed the opening of the Kartarpur corridor as a historic step to mark the occasion.

The Chief Minister has already announced a slew of development projects to upgrade infrastructure and facilities for the lakhs of pilgrims expected to visit the area during the historic occasion.

With thousands of pilgrims expected to visit the shrine at Kartarpur in Pakistan, the Dera Baba Nanak area is expected to see a lot of development in coming years in terms of infrastructure, transport facilities, hotels, shops, restaurants and related activities.

"The cabinet noted the persistent efforts by Chief MInister Amarinder Singh which culminated in the momentous decision to open the corridor," a spokesperson said here.

It was at the Kartarpur gurdwara in Pakistan, around two to three kilometres from the India-Pakistan border and right opposite the border belt in Dera Baba Nanak in Indian's Punjab's Gurdaspur district, that Guru Nanak Dev (1469-1539) spent 18 years of his life till he died.

The gurdwara has major significance in Sikh religion and history.

For the past over 71 years, even since partition, Sikhs have been offering prayers near the international border while seeing the gurdwara at a distance.

--IANS

js/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Qatar on Monday announced that it intended to withdraw from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in order to focus on its plans to increase natural gas production,.

The planned January 1, 2019, withdrawal was announced at a press conference here earlier in the day and confirmed by Qatar Petroleum, the state-owned corporation responsible for oil-and-gas activities, on Twitter, reports Efe news.

Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, Minister for Energy Affairs, said OPEC had been informed of the decision.

He said the withdrawal decision reflects Qatar's aim to increase its natural gas production from 77 million tonnes a year to 110 million tons in the coming years.

--IANS

ksk

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Taunting the BJP's proposed "Rath Yatra" in West Bengal as "Ravana Yatra", Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Monday said her party is ready to slay the demon king "Ravana" through the political process.

"These are all Ravana yatras. Lord Rama fought to slay Ravana. We are ready to slay Ravana through political process." she said, adding that her party honours saints of religious institutions but "not those who work like agents of them (the BJP)".

The saffron outfit is scheduled to hold three Rath Yatra rallies on December 7, 9 and 14 from north Bengal's Cooch Behar, South 24 Pargana district's Gangasagar and Birbhum district's temple town Tarapith respectively.

The rallies, to be inaugurated by BJP President Amit Shah, will cover all the 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state before converging in Kolkata in the second week of January next year.

Upping the ante against the BJP, Banerjee said the saffron outfit will draw nothing in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and be dethroned from the Centre.

"BJP will become zero. Our resolve is to remove them from power," she said a public rally at Keshiary in West Midnapore district.

She also said that some local leaders of her party had sabotaged in the Panchayat elections and the party had lost to the saffron outfit in some seats.

"Members of a party were elected by you in gram sabhas. But you do not know how dangerous they are. They will evict you and sell your properties." she said.

She also accused the BJP of misleading and dividing people in the name of religion.

"They are comparing Hanuman with Dalits and changing the names of historical places. They are insulting people... One day they may start comparing people or classes with rat, dog, cat... Our government constructed sky-walk at Dakhineswar temple and also developed burial grounds in the state. We do not believe in destructive politics," she said.

Banerjee urged people to keep faith in her party and not support the "divisive forces".

Referring to the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam, the Trinamool supremo said her party would not allow the NRC to be implemented in West Bengal.

--IANS

bdc/ssp/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Donald Trump is to meet China's President Xi Jinping after the G20 summit in their first talks since a trade war erupted earlier this year.

In exchange for Trump pausing the planned increase, China agreed to buy a "not yet agreed upon, but very substantial amount" of USA goods from the agricultural, energy and industrial sectors, according to Sanders' statement.

President Donald Trump has told reporters on Air Force One that a trade deal brokered with China is one of the largest ever made.

The biggest headline is that both sides have agreed to temporarily hold off on the implementation of new tariffs. China will be opening up. USA agreed to postpone the additional tariffs.

Earlier in the day, Trump canceled a planned news conference, saying the timing was not right because of the death of former U.S. President George H.W. Bush at the age of 94.

The two leaders also exchanged views on the Korean Peninsula situation and other major worldwide and regional issues. "This changes the tone and direction of the bilateral conversation".

On Friday Mr Trump briefly met Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the G20, a Russian official told Reuters.

On Saturday, Trump and Xi agreed to put a stop to their tit-for-tat tariffs row, which had roiled world markets for months.

Trump cited Putin's recent provocations against Ukraine, although the optics of him meeting the Russian leader at a time of renewed focus on his business dealings with Moscow were potentially not great. Washington accuses China of deploying predatory tactics in its tech drive, including stealing trade secrets and forcing American firms to hand over technology in exchange for access to the Chinese market.

Trump, sitting across from Xi at a long banquet table, described their relationship as "incredible" and predicted that would mean "we'll probably end up getting something that's good for China and good for the United States".

He said under the deal China would buy a "tremendous amount of agricultural and other product" from the United States.

Under the deal, the Trump administration will hold off boosting tariffs from 10 percent to 25 percent as previously threatened for at least 90 days.

The tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods would have gone from 10 percent to 25 percent in the new year.

Meanwhile, China has targeted $110 billion worth of U.S. imports for tariffs.

A full-blown resolution was not expected to be reached in Buenos Aires; the issues that divide them are just too hard. In doing so, they cited the trade conflict as well as political uncertainty.

As part of the deal, China also agreed to start purchasing agricultural products from USA farmers immediately, the White House said.

"This was an wonderful and productive meeting with unlimited possibilities for both the United States and China", Trump said in a statement released after Saturday's meeting.

China "is open to approving the previously unapproved" deal for US company Qualcomm Inc to acquire Netherlands-based NXP Semiconductors "should it again be presented".

China nixed the proposed takeover earlier this year, citing antitrust concerns, after US and European regulators approved the deal. It is unclear whether the transaction could be revived even with China's acquiescence.

Tensions between Washington and Beijing have increased in recent weeks ahead of the high-stakes meeting between Trump and Xi.

However, Qualcomm said in a statement that it considers the matter closed. He said lawmakers can choose between the replacement, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or nothing.

China has also agreed to purchase "a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial" amount of energy and industrial products, the White House said.

To force China to end its unfair practices, the United States has imposed tariffs on almost $250 billion worth of Chinese goods this year and the levies will be raised to 25 percent from 10 percent on January 1, 2019. China would also buy agricultural products from U.S. farmers immediately.

"It's 90 days. It's nothing and it doesn't really make any difference".

Think your friends would be interested?BJP President Amit Shah on Monday attacked the Congress on its lack of leadership in Rajasthan and asked why the party was not revealing the name of its "captain" in the state.

Attacking Congress President Rahul Gandhi who accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of creating two Indias, Shah told an election rally at Chittorgarh that the political leadership in the country was divided between "patriotic people" led by Modi while "Rahul baba" headed a party that lacked "leadership, policy and principles".

In fact, "every day I question Rahul Baba as to who is the captain of their team but he remains silent", Shah said.

He counted all the developments made by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and mocked at the Congress for questioning the BJP's development model.

--IANS

arc/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A gunfight between militants and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district ended on Monday after the militants managed to escape.

Police sources said the security forces had surrounded Sangran village in Shopian district in the morning following information that two to three militants were hiding there.

"As the security forces closed in, the militants fired at the security forces, triggering an encounter," a police officer said. "The militants finally escaped."

Protests broke out near the site of the gunfight immediately after the gun battle erupted.

--IANS

sq/mr

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The final arguments in the politically-sensitive case of the twin encounters of Sohrabuddin Anwar Shaikh and Tulsiram Prajapati, and the brutal rape-cum-murder of Kausar Bi, started on Monday in a Special CBI Court here.

Special Judge S.J. Sharma had fixed the December 3 date after completing the recording of statements of accused under Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) Section 313, and their lawyers failed to produce any defence witnesses in the case.

The verdict in the high-profile case, which involved 22 other accused is expected by December-end.

The alleged "fake encounters" of gangsters Sohrabuddin and Prajapati, and the disappearance of the former's wife, Kausar Bi, took place in 2005-2006, creating a major political storm in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled Gujarat.

The prosecution's case was that Sohrabuddin was linked with the terror outfit Lashkar-e-Tayiba and was allegedly conspiring to assassinate "an important political leader", presumably, the then state Chief Minister, and now Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A total of 37 people were accused in the case, of which 16 were discharged in 2014, including 15 by the Special CBI Court Mumbai, and one by Bombay High Court.

Among those discharged were the then Gujarat Home Minister and now BJP President Amit Shah, the then Rajasthan Home Minister G.C. Kataria, the 'encounter specialist' and former Deputy Inspector-General from Gujarat D.G. Vanzara, who at the relevant time headed the Anti Terrorism Squad (ATS) in that state, and then IPS officer N.K. Amin and 12 other police officials.

Following a Central Bureau of Investigation plea, the Supreme Court ordered the case to be shifted out of Gujarat to Mumbai in September 2012, and it also clubbed the Sohrabuddin and Prajapati cases.

During the trial in the past over a decade a total 210 prosecution witnesses were examined, of which 92 turned hostile.

"Dreaded criminal" Sohrabuddin, who possessed 40 AK-47 assault rifles, was eliminated in an alleged "staged killing" on November 26, 2005 by the Gujarat ATS near state capital Gandhinagar.

His wife had disappeared and she presumably met the same fate, the investigators later said.

The case shot to prominence for the alleged involvement of several high-profile politicians and IPS officers, making it one of the most politically-sensitive cases.

Later, Sohrabuddin's associate, Prajapati -- who was the prime witness to the alleged "fake encounters" -- was arrested and then gunned down in an encounter in December 2006 near Udaipur in Rajasthan, after the police claimed he attempted to escape from their custody.

Among other things, the two were said to be allegedly linked in various other major crimes, including the killing of former Gujarat Home Minister Haren Pandya in March 2003.

--IANS

qn/in

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)US-based private spaceflight company SpaceX launched Falcon 9 rocket carrying 64 small satellites from Vandenberg Air Force Base in the state of California on Monday.

The mission, dubbed SSO-A, or "SmallSat Express," set a US launch record for most satellites put into space at a single time. It is also SpaceX's first flight to reuse the Falcon 9 first-stage booster a third time.

The rocket blasted off from Space Launch Complex 4 at the air force base at 10:34 a.m. PST (1834 GMT), Xinhua news agency reported.

At about two minutes and 21 seconds after liftoff, SpaceX confirmed first stage main engine cutoff.

Following stage separation, the first stage of the rocket successfully landed on the "Just Read the Instructions" droneship stationed in the Pacific Ocean. It completed Falcon 9's third launch and landing this year.

Later on, SpaceX confirmed second stage engine cutoff and successful deployment of four microsats and the upper and lower free flyer with additional payloads for SSO-A.

The Falcon 9 carried to orbit 64 spacecraft, in particular 15 Micro satellites and 49 cubesats, from 34 different organisations from 17 countries.

The "ride share" mission, SpaceX's 19th mission of 2018, was arranged by a company called Spaceflight Industries.

A series of six deployments will occur approximately 13-43 minutes after liftoff, after which Spaceflight will begin to command its own deployment sequences. Spaceflight's deployments are expected to occur over a period of six hours, according to SpaceX.

"We've developed a deployment sequence that's based off a high-fidelity analysis that we did specifically to make sure our customers don't collide into each other upon deployment, so we're taking our time," said Jeff Roberts, Spaceflight's SSO-A mission manager.

"We make sure that we phase that to maximize the distance in separation between all of our customers," he said.

The mission was previously scheduled for three times, but was postponed to Monday for additional inspections prior to the launch.

--IANS

vc

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Tamil Nadu on Monday urged the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) to withdraw the nod given to Karnataka for preparing a detailed project report (DPR) on Mekedatu reservoir across the Cauvery river.

Addressing reporters after a meeting of the nine-member CWMA, S.K. Prabakar, Principal Secretary to Tamil Nadu government hoped that the Authority will immediately act to direct the Central Water Commission (CWC) to withdraw this permission.

"Permission to grant DPR without consulting the upper and lower state is not correct. We have made this point and urged them to withdraw the permission of preparing the DPR," he said.

The Tamil Nadu government also said that CWC should be advised not to proceed in "haste" without taking the consent of lower and upper states especially in such matter which affect livelihood of millions of farmers in the state.

CWC's approval for the DPR was discussed here at a meeting of the Authority.

The Cauvery Neeravari Nigam Ltd, Karnataka, plans to prepare the DPR for Mekedatu Balancing Reservoir-cum-Drinking Water Project.

On July 2, CWMA Chairman S. Masood Husain had directed Karnataka to release the quantum of water as per the tribunal award for July after adjusting the surplus in the month of June to Tamil Nadu. The tribunal had allotted 34 tmcft and the excess water released in June was more than 3 tmcft.

In the nine-member CWMA chaired by CWC Chairman, Karnataka is represented by its Principal Secretary, Water Resources, Rakesh Singh and Tamil Nadu government by Principal Secretary, Public Works Department, S.K. Prabakar. Kerala Water Resources Secretary Tinku Biswal and Puducherry Development Commissioner-cum-PWD Secretary A. Anbarasu were also present.

--IANS

bns/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Led by Vaiko, the MDMK on Monday staged a protest here demanding that Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit release the seven persons serving life imprisonment in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.

Members of opposition parties like DMK, CPI, CPI-M and others extended support to the protest demanding their release in line with a resolution passed by the Tamil Nadu cabinet.

Addressing the gathering, Vaiko said Purohit should release the seven convicts under Article 161 of the Constitution.

The seven are Perarivalan, Murugan, Nalini, Shanthan, Ravichandran, Jayakumar and Robert Pyas.

Vaiko and others said the seven had been in jail for the past 27 years -- since a suicide bomber blew up former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi at an election rally near here on May 21, 1991.

Later, Vaiko and many others were detained by the police.

Meanwhile, a television journalist was attacked allegedly by a DMK worker who was involved in a dispute at a tea stall near the protest venue. But DMK President M.K. Stalin denied the attacker belonged to his party.

The DMK asked the police to take stringent action against the attacker.

--IANS

vj/mr

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has sought the World Bank financial assistance for upgrading two national highways in Himachal Pradesh, an official said on Monday.

State Additional Chief Secretary Manisha Nanda said the national highways are 124-km long Hamirpur-Mandi section and 97-km long Paonta Sahib-Gumma section with an estimated cost of Rs 909.81 crore and Rs 779.10 crore respectively.

The Hamirpur-Mandi national highway will be developed as a green highway for sustainable environment and inclusive growth.

The official said a team of the World Bank is currently inspecting the roads and will meet state functionaries.

Nanda said the World Bank has also approved the second phase of the State Road Transformation Programme to be executed by the Himachal Pradesh Road and other Infrastructure Development Corp. The total project cost is Rs 770 crore.

--IANS

vg/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Three persons including a disc jockey (DJ) have been arrested here for opening firing at two persons after a fight broke out over song selection and requests to play a song repeatedly, police said on Monday.

According to the police, the incident occurred on Sunday night around 10.24 p.m at a family function in west Delhi's Palam Village.

Shanky Bhardwaj and his cousin brother Tushar Bhardwaj were insisting Akshay, the DJ, to play the song "Tamanche Pe Disco..." repeatedly, which led to a fight between them, a police officer said on the condition of anonymity.

Akshay, 19, later informed his employers, Sanjay Sharma and Ashish Sharma. They came and fired at Shanky, 23, and Tushar, 16.

The accused managed to escape, the officer said, adding that the victims suffered bullet injuries in their abdomen.

The police team reached the spot and found Shanky and Tushar Bhardwaj lying in a pool of blood, Deputy Commissioner of Police Devender Arya said.

"They were taken to a hospital in Dwarka where they are still undergoing treatment. Their condition is out of danger as per the doctors," Arya said.

Akshay and his employers Sanjay, 29, and his brother Ashish, 23, were arrested on Monday from their hideouts in west Delhi in separate police raids, the Joint Commissioner of Police told IANS.

--IANS

sp/pgh/nir

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Globally one billion people live with disabilities, making them the largest minority in the world, said UN Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator Achim Steiner on Monday, while calling on countries and governments to empower them and work for their betterment.

"On this day, let's commit to working together to ensure that persons with disabilities have equal access and voice in society, and can realise their fullest possible potential," Steiner said in a statement.

December 3 is annually celebrated as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

This year's theme is "empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality", and speaks to the heart of UNDP's work to achieve inclusive, equitable and sustainable development as part of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals, the statement said.

The landmark 2006 Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, implemented in 177 countries, demonstrates how countries can come together on an issue and move the needle quickly for change.

But "to realise the promise of the 2030 Agenda and its core pledge to leave no one behind, it is essential that all people, particularly those facing discrimination and exclusion, have access and voice and can participate equally in every aspect of life", Steiner said.

In a bid to support governments and organisations in achieving this, UNDP also launched a guidance note on persons with disabilities which highlights practical ways it is working in countries around the world to support disability inclusion.

"We are also taking forward a number of initiatives within UNDP to help reduce barriers and foster an enabling environment for the employment, retention, and closer collaboration with persons with disabilities," Steiner noted.

--IANS

rt/ksk/bg

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Uttar Pradesh cabinet on Monday approved a proposal which identified 5,125 hectares of land for the ambitious Defence Corridor announced for the Bundelkhand region by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February this year, an official said.

The land has been earmarked in Aligarh, Azamgarh, Jalaun, Jhansi, Kanpur and Chitrakoot districts of the state.

The cabinet clearance now means that the state government would purchase the identified land and hand it over to the companies that have shown interest in building the corridor.

The cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, also okayed a proposal for empanelment of the Indian Institute of Kanpur (IIT-K) and the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) for technical support in the project.

The cabinet also gave a green signal to the allocation of Rs 1,070.65 lakh for running cruise boats in Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Modi.

Officials also said that a Rs 1,400-crore investment has been made for the under-construction Jawahar thermal power plant and the Obra plant. While the former will be constructed by the Power Grid Corporation of India, the Obra one would be built by the Adani group.

Among the 16 proposals cleared by the cabinet, one includes giving performance incentive to the 3.75 lakh "Aanganwadi" workers in the state. Other than this, the state cabinet has also ratified a proposal of Rs 10 lakh financial compensation for the cleaning staff who die while cleaning sewers in the state.

--IANS

md/nir

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)He didn't address Ukraine's accusations of a Russian military buildup.

President Petro Poroshenko says Russian Federation is blockading Ukrainian ports on the nearby Sea of Azov and has deployed a large number of troops along its border with Ukraine. Russia is resisting global calls to release three Ukrainian naval ships that its border patrols fired upon and seized in the strait near Russian-annexed Crimea last weekend.

"I think they could not but hear it [Russia's perspective] because Russian President Vladimir Putin at the meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel personally showed in hand-waving terms how all this happened, how this provocation was plotted and how they tried to carry it out and how responsibly our border guards fulfilled their duty, attempting to avoid any undesirable incidents", Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Russian television on Sunday, referring to conversations Putin had at the G20 Summit in Argentina this weekend. Ukrainian officials say Russia has now imposed a de facto blockade on its two main ports in the Sea of Azov by allowing only ships destined for Russian ports through the strait.

President Vladimir Putin has denounced Western nations" "vicious' use of sanctions against Russian Federation during a speech at the G20 summit in Argentina.

Putin said at the summit that there's been no discussion with Ukraine about releasing the sailors or the ships.

The November 25 incident was the first direct military confrontation between the two countries since Russian Federation annexed Crimea in 2014.

Russian Federation and Ukraine have blamed each other for the November 25 clash in the Kerch Strait, which links the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.

Separately, the Ukrainian border service said Saturday that about 100 Russian citizens had been denied entry since the border restrictions went into effect Friday.

Citing the imminent threat of a Russian offensive, Poroshenko has convinced the Ukrainian parliament to implement 30 days of martial law.

The martial law order included a ban on entry to Ukraine of all Russian males aged 16 to 60, a move Poroshenko said is created to prevent undercover Russian military units from infiltrating the country.

"In the waters of the Black Sea, Sea of Azov, and Aegean Sea, more than 80 ships and 8 submarines are on patrol - including 23 combat vessels and 6 submarines", he declared.

A Ukrainian border guard speaks to a driver of a vehicle from Russian Federation at the checkpoint at the border with Russian Federation in Hoptivka, Ukraine, Friday, Nov. 30, 2018.At the 24th meeting of Conference of Parties (COP-24) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change on Monday, Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan reiterated India's solar and public awareness campaigns like Green Good Deeds.

"This year the theme of India Pavilion is 'One World One Sun One Grid' as highlighted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the first assembly of the International Solar Alliance in October 2018," Vardhan said at the inauguration of Indian Pavilion in COP-24 in Katowice, Poland.

The Minister also stated that Indian leadership resolves to make India plastic-free by 2022.

"I expect that this movement - Green Good Deeds - will soon involve people not only, in India but across the globe. I am receiving positive feedback from all stakeholders for further strengthening this movement," Vardhan said.

He said India is working hard for achieving the 175 GW target for installed Renewable Energy capacity by 2022.

"The effect of increased use of renewable energy is now visible in India. Resultantly, India stands fourth in wind power, fifth in renewable power and solar power installed," the Minister said adding that the government is also working on biomass, biofuel and bio-energy.

Vardhan said that until now, more than 0.26 million Electric Vehicles have been sold, which has led to more than 91 million (in kilogram) CO2 reduction.

Green Good Deeds is a campaign initiated by Vardhan that encourages people towards the by planting trees, power saving, transport and household that can improve the deteriorating environmental conditions.

--IANS

sd/prs

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In recent years, as the World Banks financing role has been eclipsed by the rise of private capital and a surge in money from China, its leaders have been desperately seeking a new mission. And interminable reorganisations, politicised appointments, and the changing priorities of successive presidents have contributed to the perception that the institution is less than functional. But can that change?

The has tried to reinvent itself as a supplier of global public goods and a knowledge bank that provides data, analysis, and research to its developing-country clients. And few would deny the Banks achievements when it comes to gathering indicators of economic activity, measuring poverty, identifying deficiencies in the provision of health and education, and, in earlier years, designing and evaluating development projects.

But many, such as the Nobel laureate economist Angus Deaton, have criticised the World Banks overall performance. One problem is that development outcomes also depend on poor countries external economic environment, which is shaped by the policies of the major economies. And when it comes to promoting sound policies, the has fallen far short in recent decades, exemplified by three major intellectual sins of omission.

The first relates to the World Banks role in the Latin American debt crisis of the early 1980s. As its official history shows, the Bank restricted research on the implications of excessive borrowing during the crisis. Moreover, it did little to make the case for debt write-downs, despite the reckless increase in lending by big banks.

Instead, through its structural-adjustment lending, the World Bank, along with the International Monetary Fund, effectively became a debt collector for creditors. The result was a lost decade for Latin America, but not for the bankers. The resulting moral hazard would encourage another bout of exuberant lending, which led to further financial crises in developing countries in the subsequent decade.

The was also silent when its developing-country clients access to life-saving medications was being restricted. In the late 1980s, the leading industrialised countries  the United States, Europe, and Japan  began to push for stronger patent regimes that would boost their own pharmaceutical companies profits.

In 1995, developing countries were forced to sign the onerous Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights agreement at the World Trade Organization. Moreover, under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974, sanctions were imposed on several developing countries, from Chile to India, accused of failing to strengthen patent protections sufficiently.

Even when the AIDS crisis was ravaging Sub-Saharan Africa in the early 2000s, global patent rules were not just maintained, but actually tightened further, until pressure from civil society finally forced the expansion of access to affordable treatment. The World Bank, however, said little.

This brings us to the World Banks third failure, the consequences of which are unfolding today. During much of the 1980s and 1990s, the Bank oversaw structural adjustment programmes in developing countries that focused on deregulation, privatisation, and economic liberalisation, especially trade opening, all of which helped to enable globalisation. While there were undoubtedly problems with many aspects of such a one-size-fit-all package of policies  the Washington Consensus, as it was known  the trade liberalisation component helped accelerate lower-middle-income and middle-income countries economic convergence with developed countries.

But, today, the United States is rejecting trade openness, imposing unilateral tariffs and other barriers, and renegotiating trade deals on worse terms. And the World Banks silence is deafening. Its senior leadership has said nothing about the serious threat posed by the actions of the US or of other major players. While the Banks annual report, released in September, talks of a commitment to researching todays most pressing topics, trade is not among them.

This is not just some oversight; during all of these episodes, the Bank knew that its responsibility was to act as an advocate for its poor clients. Instead, it decided  every time  to kowtow to its most powerful shareholders and their vested interests (such as Big Pharma and the financial industry), arguably in exchange for additional resources for its soft-loan window (the International Development Association) and, less frequently, capital increases for the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and International Finance Corporation.

For example, this April  after the US had launched its trade war with tariffs on steel and aluminum  the Development Committee of the World Bank Board of Governors endorsed a package that included a $7.5 billion paid-in capital increase for the IBRD. This required the support of President Donald Trumps administration, leading to silence from the Bank until June, when it finally warned of the negative impact of trade protectionism on global growth.

One might wonder whether such a Faustian bargain could be worthwhile if it means that the World Bank has more resources to promote development in poor countries. But while money certainly matters, the evidence suggests that development outcomes are determined more by factors like state capacity and national policies, and crucially, a supportive global environment. Rising trade protectionism, tighter immigration policies, and a lack of action on climate change by the worlds biggest economic players  particularly the US  thus pose serious threats to development, which a little extra money for the World Bank cannot offset. The ends do not justify the means: money may not matter that much, while ideas matter immensely in the broader fight against (as this years Nobel Economics laureate, Paul Romer, has shown).

The World Bank cannot erase its troubling history of silence. But it may be able to redeem itself. Its new chief economist is an expert on trade. The Banks leadership should empower her to lead the charge in making the intellectual case for open markets for goods, services, and people.

The World Bank is well aware that its mission  to reduce poverty, and improve living standards by promoting sustainable growth and investment in people  cannot be achieved without an open global system. If it chooses not to uphold a core tenet of its mission, and instead continues to try ingratiating itself with its largest shareholders, it will not only fail its clients throughout the developing world; it will also lose whatever is left of its raison detre.





Devesh Kapur is a professor at the School of Advanced International Studies at Johns Hopkins University and co-author of The World Bank: Its First Half-Century. Arvind Subramanian is former Chief Economic Adviser in the Indian finance ministry, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics and a visiting lecturer at Harvard University.

Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2018

www.project-syndicate.orgThis refers to Farmers march in Delhi gives Opposition parties common cause against govt (December 1). It is sad that the farmers protest in Delhi has not galvanised the government into taking concrete action to mitigate their distress.

Even their singing and drumming or displaying the skulls and skeletons of deceased farmers seem to have proved futile in waking it up to their plight. It is not just the governments failure to understand the seriousness of the agrarian crisis. The society has also failed to mount pressure on the government to accede to the just ...This refers to India and China resolve key tax issues to facilitate trade (December 3). The growth of industry in India has been stagnating for quite some time.

Therefore, it necessitates a return to international trade. This is also to be seen in the background of a truce in the ongoing trade war between the US and China which is indirectly providing greater flexibility, direction and certainty to the movement of our foreign trade. Although political relations with China are delicate, India has to capitalise on the opportunity to improve business relations with the ...chief on Monday attacked Prime Minister over the issue of agrarian distress, saying he was making "two Hindustans" -- one for and the other for farmers.

He cited a media report which claimed that for 750 kg of onion, a farmer was given Rs 1,040 in Maharashtra.

"Modiji is making two Hindustans. One is the Hindustan for -- who without doing anything, without making an airplane, will get the Rafale contract worth Rs 30,000 crore (Rs 300 billion) from Modiji. The second is the Hindustan for farmers -- whose 750 kg of onion grown after four months of toil will get only Rs 1,040 from Modiji," the president tweeted.

The has been attacking the Modi government over issues concerning the farmers, alleging that the government's policies have left them in distress.

The government has rejected the claims and pointed out the number of steps it has taken for the welfare of farmers.

The Congress party and its chief have also launched an offensive on Modi and his government, alleging corruption and favouritism in the fighter jet deal for purchase of 36 Rafale aircraft from France's Dassault Aviation, a charge the government has strongly denied.Around 150 out of the 400 workers of auto component manufacturer Pricol, who were on strike for 100 days, returned to work Monday.

The 400 workers, affiliated to AICCTU, have been on an indefinite strike from August 21 seeking wage revision thereby affecting productivity by 30 per cent and delaying delivery of the products to the customers, managing director Pricol Vikram Mohan told reporters here.

As there was an impact on business, the customers insisted shiftings the orders from the plant here to other units to ensure continuous supply of products, he said.

The management decided to relocate or transfer 302 workers to its other plants in Pune, Manesar and Sri City where the business was shifted, based on their age, capacity and skills, and started issuing orders, he said.

Asked whether this would not further lead to unrest, he said the company has to wait and watch and that it was willing to let the employees choose voluntary retirement, he said.

Meanwhile, a press release from AICCTU said this was nothing but to break the activities of the union.

The transfer of a large number of employees, including six office-bearers, was an act of revenge against them, the release said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two alleged interstate narcotic smugglers, hailing from Punjab, were arrested after 50-kg poppy straw were recovered from a truck in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district on Monday, police said.

An apple-laden truck coming from Kashmir was subjected to checking at Teethaar in Banihal area along the Jammu-Srinagar national highway, during which the poppy straw was found concealed in five boxes, a police spokesperson said.

The driver, Varinder Singh, and his associate, Gurpal Singh, were arrested and booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. During questioning, the driver revealed that he had bought the consignment from Sangam area of Kashmir and it was meant to be sold in Punjab, the spokesperson said.

The police had foiled several attempts of narcotic-smuggling from the Valley in the past week, resulting in seizure of over 900 kilograms of poppy straw.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Samsung Display controls over 90% of the small-to-medium sized OLED display panel market, whereas LG.Display controls the OLED TV panel segment. They previously sold lamination equipment to Samsung, and then contacted the Chinese company after their sales fell.

South Korean prosecutors say Samsung Display has invested 150 billion won into Samsung flexible display technology over the past six years. Three of the defendants were arrested, including Toptec Chief Executive Officer Lee Jae-hwan, whereas another two who were accused of being complicit but worked for another firm from China avoided having any official charges dropped on them.

Samsung Display's edge panel technology for a curved edge of a smartphone screen has leaked to China.

The Korean giant relies heavily on Chinese manufacturers to produce and supply the company with OLED panels and is sold to other brands as well. That apart, the accused are known to have been using separate phones as well their own personal email addresses to keep their activities under cover.

Intellectual property theft is a national concern for South Korea as it tries to maintain its narrowing technology lead over China. Ltd. for selling information earlier this year about Samsung's OLED panels.

A race has started in the tech world ever since Samsung announced that it plans to introduce the world's first foldable smartphone at the Mobile World Congress stage in 2019.

The curved-edge display technology is used in its much-lauded Galaxy phones, which continue to be well received.

According to prosecutors in Suwon, South Korea, the CEO of Samsung supplier Toptec Co.

Reuters, which named the accused company as Toptec, reported that the business has denied any wrongdoing. The case involves flexible display technology that made several of Samsung's flagship phones including the latest Note 9 extremely popular.Police arrested two people for alleged human trafficking during a raid in Pakur district in Jharkhand on Monday and rescued 14 labourers belonging to the primitive Pahariya tribe, a senior official said.

The people arrested are residents of Kolkata and were arrested near Ambedkar Chowk in Pakur town, Superintendent of Police Shailendra Prasad Burnwal said.

Burnwal said the labourers are residents of Kumarbhaja village under Littipara police station of the district.

During interrogation, the people arrested confessed to police that they had trafficked labourers from Jharkhand to various others states, including Delhi and West Bengal promising them jobs, Burnwal said.

They use to to promise labourers that they would be paid Rs 10,000 monthly for their work in Delhi, he said adding that they had assured the victims to pay 50 per cent of the salary in Pakur after the labourers insisted for it.

A case has been registered under Section 370/34 of the IPC against the two on the basis of a joint complaint lodged by the labourers, Burnwal added.

In an unrelated incident, seven children, who were being taken to Delhi by suspected traffickers two days ago, were set free by railway police from Ghaziabad, said Pakur district coordinator of Childline centre, Kundan Kumar Goswami.

The children have been handed over to Child Welfare Committee, Pakur, on Monday, he said.

Of the seven children, five children hailed from Pakur district and one each from Godda and West Singhbhum district, Goswami said.

A child, who was a native of Aajna village under Pakur Sadar block, has been handed over to his parents and a process to hand over four others, who are residents of Amrapara police station of the district, to their relatives is on, he said.

Two other children were handed over to Childline Centre, Pakur and will be handed over to their parents on Tuesday.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The government has approved induction of 56 new ships and six submarines to augment Indian Navy's overall prowess while the country's first indigenous aircraft carrier Vikrant has entered its final phase of construction, Navy Chief Chief Adm. Sunil Lanba said Monday.

Addressing a press conference on the eve of Navy Day, Adm. Lanba said a "great deal of progress" has been made on ensuring synergy and "jointness" among the three services.

At the same time, he said the Indian Air Force is against theatre commands and noted that a higher defence organisation must be set up before starting actual work in that direction.

In his nearly 70-minute media briefing, the Admiral listed various steps being taken to modernise his force including induction of a large fleet of military jets and choppers, adding the construction of a second indigenous aircraft carrier is expected to start within a period of three years.

On China fast expanding its naval prowess, the Navy Chief said, "By 2050, we will also have 200 ships, 500 aircraft and be a world-class navy."



He said 32 ships and submarines are presently under construction in Indian shipyards and in addition to them, government has accorded approval for 56 ships and six submarines.

Asked about the possibility of the Navy having to deal with a two-front war, the Admiral said his force is overwhelmingly ahead of Pakistan Navy, while the balance of power in the Indian Ocean rests with India compared to China.

"As far as Indian Navy is concerned, we don't have two fronts. We have one and that is the Indian Ocean," he said in the nearly 70-minute press conference.

Asked about delay on the part of Reliance Naval Engineering Ltd in supplying five offshore patrol vehicle, he said the company is undergoing corporate debt restructuring and the bank guarantee for the deal has been encashed.

On whether the government was looking at cancelling the deal, the Navy Chief said the contract is being looked into.

About the long-pending proposal to appoint a chief of defence staff (CDS) as head of the tri-services, he said there was a consensus among the the Army, Navy and Air Force on it and that a proposal on the matter was sent to the defence ministry.

Referring to overall security scenario in the region, Adm. Lanba said, "Our maritime security strategy is aimed at providing a maritime environment that is free from all forms of traditional and non-traditional threats to our national development."



He also talked about a "friendly" government coming to power in Maldives and hoped that maritime cooperation with the island nation will again pick up momentum under the new regime.

Asked about the status of the proposal to set up a naval base at Seychelles' Assumption Island, he said talks were on with the government of the island nation.

To queries on the state of coastal security 10 years after the 26/11 attack, he said the process for installing automated identification transponders on around 2.5 lakh fishing boats has been started and talked about various other measures.

Adm Lanba asserted that the Indian Navy continued to remain "on watch 24 X 7" safeguarding the country's national interests in the maritime domain.

About the strategic nuclear submarine project, he said the Indian Navy has successfully completed the first deterrence patrol of INS Arihant this year, adding, "with this, we have operationalised the third and the most survivable segment of the country's nuclear triad."



He said the second indigenous aircraft carrier has received the necessary impetus and it will be a CATOBAR, 65000 ton ship.

He said the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier, presently in its third and final Phase of construction at Kochi, will undergo sea trials in 2020.

"Induction of Vikrant will provide significant fillip to the Navy's blue water capability, increasing the reach and impact of carrier borne strike forces, both as a means of deterrence as well as during combat operations," he said.

The Navy chief said specific guidelines for construction of submarines as part of the P75I project under the strategic partnership model will be released soon.

To a separate question on Kulbhushan Jadhav, the former Navy staffer who was given death sentence by a Pakistani military court on charges of espionage, the Navy Chief said, "We are in touch with Kulbhushan Jadhav's family and are proving all support.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Students, take note! Getting sufficient sleep during the exam week may help boost your grades, scientists have found.

Researchers from Baylor University in the US invited students to participate in "The 8-hour Challenge", in which participants were given extra points if they completed an average eight hours of sleep for five nights during final exams week.

The study found that those who completed the challenge performed better in exams.

"Better sleep helped rather than harmed final exam performance, which is contrary to most college students' perceptions that they have to sacrifice either studying or sleeping," said Michael Scullin, from Baylor University.

"And you don't have to be an 'A' student or have detailed on sleep for this to work," Scullin said.

While students who successfully met the sleep challenge received extra points, the "mini-incentive" was not included in the analysis of how well they performed on the finals, said Elise King, assistant professor at Baylor.

"Students know that sacrificing sleep to complete school work is not a healthy choice, but they assume they don't have a choice, often remarking that there aren't enough hours in the day for coursework, extracurriculars, jobs, etc," King said.

"This removes that excuse," she said.

Research participants included undergraduate interior design students and students in upper-level psychology and neuroscience classes.

While the psychology classes emphasized about sleep, the interior design students did not receive any formal training in sleep.

Those who opted to take the challenge wore wristband sleep-monitoring devices for five days to ensure accurate study results.

Poor sleep is common during finals as students cut back on sleep, deal with more stress, use more caffeine and are exposed to more bright light, all of which may disrupt sleep.

Fewer than 10 per cent of undergraduates maintain the recommended average of 8 hours a night or even the recommended minimum of seven hours, previous research shows.

However, with incentives, "we can potentially completely reverse the proportion of students meeting minimum sleep recommendations -- seven hours a night -- from fewer than 15 per cent up to 90 per cent," Scullin said.

"Half of students can even meet optimal sleep recommendations of 8 to 9 hours," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A N Jha, Secretary, Expenditure, has been appointed as new Finance Secretary, a government order said Monday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has cleared Jha's appointment to the post after incumbent Hasmukh Adhia, a 1981-batch Gujarat cadre officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), retired on November 30.

Fifty-nine-year old Ajay Narayan Jha, is a 1982-batch IAS officer of Manipur Tripura cadre.

An alumnus of St Stephens College from where he passed with first class in Graduation and post graduation in History, Jha is a recipient of World Bank scholarship to pursue Masters in Economic Policy Management from McGill University in Canada.

He is also an MPhil in public administration from Delhi University.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said it will provide a USD 85 million loan to improve skill development eco-system in Odisha and establish an advanced skill training centre at Bhubaneswar.

The project will help over 1.5 lakh people learn skills in priority sectors, including manufacturing, construction and services for formal employment, ADB said in a release.

World Skill Centre (WSC) at Bhubaneswar will deliver eight training courses for 13,000 full-time students, provide training for 5,000 teachers, and train 1,000 assessors.

It will improve the overall eco-system of skill development in Odisha by providing integrated services through an entrepreneurship incubation centre, a career counselling and placement centre, a curriculum design and development centre, and technology deployment centre, it said.

"These important functions of WSC will support a network of Government ITIs and develop skills and capacity of polytechnics, college of engineering, and other private skilling centres," it added.

ADB will also administer a USD 2 million technical assistance grant from the Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction, financed by the Government of Japan, that will support capacity development activities under the project.

In 2017, ADB operations totalled USD 32.2 billion, including USD 11.9 billion in co-financing.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The BJP's star campaigner, Yogi Adityanath, seems to have emerged as the party's most-sought-after chief minister for campaigning in the high-stakes Assembly election, addressing more than 50 rallies in three states.

In the past month, the saffron-clad leader has addressed several meetings in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, where BJP candidates are seeking his presence to improve their performance, a senior party leader told PTI on Monday.

""So far, the 46-year-old Hindutva poster boy has addressed 53 meetings in the three states. In Chhattisgarh, he addressed the maximum number of 21 meetings, which is far more than those by party president Amit Shah, who addressed nine meetings, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who addressed four rallies," said the BJP leader on condition of anonymity as he is not authorised to speak on it.

Among the leaders outside the state, Adityanath did the maximum number of meetings, showing his growing clout, acceptance and demand among the party cadre, said another senior leader.

In Madhya Pradesh, where Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan is eying a fourth term, Adityanath addressed 15 meetings, while Shah and Modi held 25 and 10 rallies respectively.

Likewise, in poll-bound Rajasthan, the UP chief minister is scheduled to address 17 meetings as against 10 rallies scheduled for Modi.

Previously, in Karnataka, Kerala and Tripura too, Adityanath was the saffron party's star campaigner.

"Under the leadership of Adityanath, UP is progressing and setting an example of development for other states. Investments are coming as law and order has improved drastically as compared to previous regimes," BJP state spokesperson Shalabh Mani Tripathi said.

"The demand for our CM in other states reflect his acceptability among people and our cadre beyond Uttar Pradesh," Tripathi said.

Chhattisgarh went to polls in two phases on November 12 and 20, Madhya Pradesh had elections on November 28 and Rajasthan will go to polls on Friday.

Before the Tripura Assembly election early this year, Adityanath, who belongs to the Nath sect of Shaivite tradition, was deputed as the party's trump card to woo followers of the sect and Gorakhshnath Peeth as they make a considerable chunk of voters in the northeastern state.

He had addressed over half-a-dozen public rallies and conducted a couple of road shows in the northeastern state. Five of seven seats, where the UP chief minister campaigned, was won by the BJP. The party rose from nil in 2013 to an impressive 43 of 59 seats, unseating the 25-year-old Manik Sarkar-led CPM government in Tripura.

Even before the Karnataka Assembly election dates were announced, Adityanath emerged as the main draw in the southern state. He had also campaigned for the BJP during the Gujarat elections in order to appeal to the Hindi-speaking migrants in the western state.

"After Narendra Modi, Adityanath has emerged as the most powerful Hindutva icon," said a BJP leader, adding he was sought after by the BJP state units, wherever elections were being held.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Searching through the mountains of published cancer research could be made easier, thanks to a new AI system developed by scientists.

The system, called LION LBD and developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge in the UK, has been designed to assist scientists in the search for cancer-related discoveries.

It is the first literature-based discovery system aimed at supporting cancer research, according to the study published in the journal Bioinformatics.

Global cancer research attracts massive amounts of funding worldwide, and the scientific literature is now so huge that researchers are struggling to keep up with it: critical hypothesis-generating evidence is now often discovered long after it was published.

Cancer is a complex class of diseases that are not completely understood and are the second-leading cause of death worldwide, researchers said.

Cancer development involves changes in numerous chemical and biochemical molecules, reactions and pathways, and cancer research is being conducted across a wide variety of scientific fields, which have variability in the way that they describe similar concepts.

"As a cancer researcher, even if you knew what you were looking for, there are literally thousands of papers appearing every day," said Professor Anna Korhonen, Co-Director of Cambridge's Language Technology Lab.

"LION LBD uses AI to help scientists keep up-to-date with published discoveries in their field, but could also help them make new discoveries by combining what is already known in the literature by making connections between sources that may appear to be unrelated," Korhonen said.

The 'LBD' in LION LBD stands for Literature-Based Discovery, a concept developed in the 1980s which seeks to make new discoveries by combing pieces of information from disconnected sources.

The key idea behind the original version of LBD is that concepts that are never explicitly linked in the literature may be indirectly linked through intermediate concepts.

The design of the LION LBD system allows real-time search to discover indirect associations between entities in a database of tens of millions of publications while preserving the ability of users to explore each mention in its original context.

"For example, you may know that a cancer drug affects the behaviour of a certain pathway, but with LION LBD, you may find that a drug developed for a totally different disease affects the same pathway," said Korhonen.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A US government plane arrived here on Sunday afternoon to transport the body of former president George H W Bush to Washington for a state funeral.

The 41st US president died Friday, aged 94, at his home in Texas.

According to Jim McGrath, a spokesperson for the Bush family, the aircraft's flights to carry the casket of the former US president will be called "Special Air Mission 41".

United States President Donald Trump had Saturday said he would send his presidential aircraft to carry the casket of his late predecessor to Washington.

The aircraft is called Air Force One when the president is on board.

Officials also held what appeared to be a dry run for moving Bush's casket to Washington.

His body will lay in state at the Capitol Rotunda after an arrival ceremony on Monday. The public is invited and can pay their respects from Monday evening until Wednesday morning.

The casket will be flown back to Houston on Wednesday afternoon. A public viewing will be held from Wednesday evening until 6 am on Thursday.

According to sources in the White House, President Trump and first lady Melania would attend the funeral service in Houston on Thursday.

Bush will be buried in Texas next to his wife, Barbara, and their daughter, Robin, who died in 1953.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)/ -- Today, Norwegian music producer Alan Walker launches a co-branded mask together with award-winning Swedish brand Airinum. The mask is built on Airinum's 2nd generation technology of their global anti-pollution mask success, the Urban Air Mask.

(Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/792074/Airinum_Logo.jpg )



(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/792073/Airinum_Alan_Walker.jpg )



"I've always wanted to use my position and strong 'Walkers community' to make a difference, and when I met the team at Airinum I started to realize how big of an issue polluted air really is today. I felt that the time was about right to stand up for something important as the topic of climate change and the alarming consequences that it brings with it," says Walker, who has built his whole image around wearing a mask and continues:"To me, it's always been a part of my identity to wear a mask and together with Airinum I can now use that to make a bigger impact. Together we bring out a great product and at the same time spread knowledge about problems associated with poor air quality using the strength of my walker community."With air masks becoming the new black, hitting catwalks from Paris to Shanghai, Airinum has become famous for its innovative product design and rapid adoption amongst influencers. Winner of prestigious awards such as the American IDA Gold Design Award and Chinese Hurun Best of the Best Brand Award, the company has in a few years established themselves as the number one fashion-tech mask brand in the world.

"Even though we're frustrated about the need for our product in the first place, we're excited about the Alan Walker collaboration launched today, as we believe we have a perfect product for people to use to collectively help raise awareness about this important topic," says Fredrik Kempe, CMO & Co-founder of Airinum and continues:



"That the simple act of breathing is killing seven million people a year and harming billions more is what made us start this company in the first place. We find this unacceptable. Together with the whole Alan Walker team we now present a campaign dedicated to raise awareness about air pollution and climate change as a whole, while at the same time provide means for immediate protection. This is something we're all very proud of."



For high-resolution images, full campaign video and complete press kit:



bit.ly/Airinum



Airinum is a Swedish company that empowers individuals to breathe clean air by offering innovative products that intersect functionality and design, catered to urban citizens all over the world. It's famous for its Scandinavian product design and high-end brand with prestigious designer awards such as IDA Gold and Hurun Best of the Best Brand awards. The company was founded in June 2015 and the management team consist of the two co-founders: Fredrik Kempe & Alexander Hjertstrm.

Alan Walker is a Norwegian DJ who made his big breakthrough with the song Faded in 2015, today with over 2 billion views only on YouTube. He is certainly one of our most talented musicians of his age and even though he feels at home in every corner of the world, due to his millions of fans called walkers, he is mostly famous for being a pragmatic, present and caring celebrity.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Election Commission is likely to hold Assembly polls in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh with Lok Sabha elections due next year, highly-placed sources in the poll panel have said.

The terms of the four assemblies will end in May and June, 2019.

The sources also said there is a possibility of holding elections to the Jammu and Kashmir assembly, dissolved this month before it completed its tenure, along the general elections.

They pointed out that by holding assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh along with the Lok Sabha polls, the Election Commission (EC) will be following precedents.

Since the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly has been dissolved, the EC is bound to hold fresh polls there within six months.

"The upper limit ends in May. We may hold elections in Jammu and Kashmir along with the Lok Sabha polls. But it can be held before that also. We'll see in the coming days," a functionary said.

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly's six-year term was to end on March 16, 2021. The other state assemblies and the Lok Sabha have a five-year term.

Sources in the government, meanwhile, pointed out that when security forces are deployed for the Lok Sabha polls in the state, it would be convenient for election authorities to hold the assembly polls simultaneously.

While the term of the Sikkim Assembly ends on May 27, 2019, the terms of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Arunachal Pradesh assemblies end on June 18, June 11 and June 1 respectively.

"When arrangements are in place for the Lok Sabha polls and the terms of the assemblies are ending during the same period, it is but natural that all polls are held together," the functionary said.

Another EC official said if Maharashtra and Haryana Assembly elections too are clubbed with polls in the four states and the Lok Sabha, then there would not be any other election in 2019.

"Hypothetically speaking, the two states have BJP governments. If a call is taken by the party to seek dissolution of the two assemblies six months before the schedule, then elections can be clubbed with that of the Lok Sabha and the four states," he said.

The terms of the two assemblies would end in November, 2019.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Supporters of a second referendum on Brexit from all of Britain's main political parties on Monday handed in a petition with more than one million signatures to Prime Minister Theresa May's Downing Street residence.

"It is time that we now leave the choice to the British people and allow them to decide," Justine Greening, a former education minister from May's Conservative Party, told AFP.

May has ruled out holding a second referendum, urging MPs instead to approve the deal she has made with EU leaders.

The deal has proved highly divisive and all the signs point to MPs rejecting in a crucial vote next week.

The second referendum campaign has meanwhile gained momentum, particularly with the resignation of two ministers who have said another vote could be a way out of the current political impasse.

"There are no certainties in and in Westminster at the moment. But I am more positive and confident than I have ever have been since I've got involved in this campaign," said Labour MP Chuka Umunna, a leading supporter.

Around 100 anti-Brexit campaigners turned out for a demonstration near Downing Street on the eve of the start of the parliamentary debate on the Brexit deal.

"This is for my grandchildren," said Glenys Rampley, 74.

"It's unfair for the young people of this country being deprived of the opportunities that the European Union offers," she said.

Campaigners from the pro-Brexit leave means leave also turned out for a demonstration outside the British parliament.

At the protest, Harry Todd told AFP he was representing the 17.5 million people who voted to leave the EU in the 2016 referendum.

"They are trying to sell off a Brexit which isn't a Brexit," he said, calling for a clean break with the EU.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)China's president signed new trade deals with Argentina on Sunday as the Asian giant expands its growing role in Latin American economies.

Presidents Mauricio Macri of Argentina and Xi Jinping of China announced the more than 30 agriculture and investment deals during a state visit following the Group of 20 summit in Buenos Aires.

The deals include an agreement to export Argentine cherries to China and an expansion of a currency swap.

China is among Argentina's top export markets, especially for agricultural commodities that are the engine of its economy.

It is also one of Argentina's biggest lenders, financing about USD 18.2 billion in infrastructure and other projects, according to the Inter-American Dialogue, a Washington-based think tank.

"China's development benefits Argentina, our region and the world," Macri said during a ceremony at the presidential residence in the outskirts of the Argentine capital.

"We have complementary countries. There are few countries in the world that can buy so many of the high-quality products that we're capable of making," Macri said.

The visit comes after US officials said they had reached a 90-day truce in the trade dispute with China that has rattled financial markets and imperiled global economic growth.

That announcement followed a Saturday dinner meeting between Xi and President Donald Trump.

Argentina also granted Xi the top honour awarded to foreign politicians, and the Argentine polo association gave the Chinese leader a polo horse.

The South American country is home to the world's top polo players, and Macri said that he wants the sport to make a comeback in China.

Photos released by Argentina's presidency showed a smiling Xi petting the pony with one hand and holding the reins with the other.

Macri also put a red polo helmet emblazoned with China's flag on Xi's head.

Xi congratulated Macri on a successful summit and said both of their nations believe the G-20 spirit of solidarity must prevail in "the firm defense of multilateralism and free trade to build an open global economy and foment the world's prosperity and stability."



Xi then flew to Panama, which has been negotiating a free-trade deal with China after shifting its diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taiwan last year, a move that led to complaints from US officials.

Chinese companies operate ports on both ends of the Panama Canal, which for most of the 20th Century was seen as a symbol of US influence.

Xi was met at the airport by Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela, and the two leaders planned a private working meeting Monday.

The Chinese leader also planned to visit the Cocoli locks on the Pacific end of the canal.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Hinduja flagship firm Ashok Leyland Monday reported 9 per cent decline in total commercial vehicle sales at 13,121 units in November.

The company had sold 14,457 units in the same month last year, Ashok Leyland said in a regulatory filing.

Medium and heavy commercial vehicle sales last month stood at 8,718 units as against 10,638 units in November 2017, down 18 per cent, it added.

Light commercial vehicle sales were, however, higher by 15 per cent at 4,403 units as against 3,819 units in the corresponding month last year, the company said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An audio-clip containing a purported conversation between a confidant of a former Ballari BJP MP and a Dubai-based businessman has triggered allegations of attempts being made by the saffron party to topple the Congress-JD(S) coalition government in Karnataka.

In the audio, which has gone viral, the confidant is heard saying at least 10 to 11 lawmakers from the Congress and JD(S) were ready to switch sides with specific names being mentioned.

"They have been offered Rs 20 crore to Rs 25 crore and ministership. By the second week it has to happen," the confidant is heard purportedly saying in the audio.

Subsequently, another video surfaced showing Belagavi strongman and Congress MLA Satish Jarkiholi visiting a resort in Belagavi, triggering speculation about a possible move to keep the dissident MLAs there.

When asked, Jarkiholi denied having any plans to shiftloyalties though he conceded that there were at least seven to eight dissidents in Congress, not 25 as has been assumed.

"There are not 25 dissidents. Hardly there are seven to eight people but I am not among them. From the beginning I have been saying I will stay here only (in Congress)," Jarkiholi said.

The Congress MLA insisted that the party must address thegrouse of the seven-eight MLAs though he admitted that even ifthe dissidents left the party, nothing will happen to thegovernment.

Regarding his name featuring in the audio, Jarkiholi said such audio clips have been doing the rounds.

There were many clips doing the rounds where there are messages "calling people to come here and there and also that 'we will make you minister and give you money."



"There is nothing new in it. It's quite natural that attempts were made (to pull down the government). Nobody from our side will go there (in BJP). There are some dissidents but they will also not go away from the party," Jarkiholi said.

When asked about his resort visit, Jarkiholi said, "We are looking for a resort for our future plans. We want to take our MLAs there - not for defection but just for the purpose oftaking them around."



Former Karnataka chief minister and the convener of theCongress-JD(S) coordination committee Siddaramaiah hit out at the BJP for its alleged attempts to dislodge the government.

"These people are trying to come to power through unethical means from day one. Already they failed once. Now they (BJP) are trying again by investing money," Siddaramaiah claimed.

Flaying the BJP, Siddaramaiah said, "Where will they get the money if they are saying that they will pay Rs 25 crore (to each MLA)? Whose money it is? It is corrupt money.

Aren't they ashamed for trying to topple the government? This government will continue despite their attempts," Siddaramaiah said.

BJP general secretary N Ravi Kumar termed the audio "bogus" and said the Congress and JD(S) have been depending upon creating such "fictitious audios" for their survival.

The BJP spokesperson slammed Siddaramaiah for talking about corruption when he has not yet explained from where he got the expensive Hublot watch when he was the chief minister.

Embroiled in a controversy over the diamond-studded Hublot watch in March 2016, Siddaramaiah had handed it over to the assembly speaker, asking him to make it a state asset.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An Australian university is planning to invest AUD 5 million as a part of a collaboration with agricultural universities across India, to leverage research and innovations that may help Indian farmers double their income by 2022, varsity officials said.

Prime Minister has pledged to double the income of farmers of India over the next five years, said Western Sydney University (WSU) Vice Chancellor Barney Glover.

However, he noted that achieving this goal will require innovation and development, as well as grassroot problem solving for farmers.

Australia's WSU has forged a partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and thirteen state agricultural universities as part of a new initiative designed to combat global food security issues presented by climate change.

The university will invest AUD 5 million to leverage new research and developments, which is expected to make a significant contribution towards doubling farmers' income over the long term.

The research will focus on the areas of protected cropping and related aspects of horticulture and agriculture, as well as collaborative teaching and learning.

"India and share some challenges in building a protected cropping industry -- so we will have similar research questions," WSU Vice Chancellor Barney Glover told PTI in an interview here.

The two countries share similar climates. We have monsoonal areas, very arid areas -- the challenges of broad agriculture are similar in many ways, Glover said.

However, Glover points out that India has an added complexity.

"Ninety nine per cent of Indian farmers have less than five hectares of land," he said.

"Work is going on in Pune to identify the range of recommendations to double the income of the small farmers particularly. It is those with small holdings -- less than a hectare -- that are struggling to earn a living," he added.

"To help the farming community diversify their revenue, WSU is working with ICAR on a bee-keeping project that involves women.

"Bees are very important to the environment, to pollination, for crops and biodiversity of the planet. There are ways to develop an economic base from bee-keeping," Glover said.

Certain varieties of bees are crucial to protected cropping -- as pollination inside the greenhouse is challenging. Currently, both India and uses hand pollination, an expensive and time consuming process, Glover said.

"Touching on bee-keeping is one element of bringing a diversification of revenue into the community. By introducing more crops, and adding livestock small farmers can better manage the volatility in the climate and market," he said.

With ICAR and the state universities across the country, WSU will work to upskill industry and train early career academics through joint research training programs in horticulture and agriculture.

"Collaborative research between ICAR and WSU will bring together researchers, academics and students from partnering institutions and provide them with a platform to benefit from mutual expertise," said Trilochan Mohapatra, Director General of ICAR.

The network includes top state agricultural universities of Haryana, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Kashmir, West Bengal, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu ,and Kerala.

According to Glover, support of local agricultural institutes is essential in helping farmers adopt new methods and approaches to farming.

"The students in these universities often come from families involved in agriculture. It provides an opportunity to influence the families to adopt successful agricultural strategies," Glover said.

The collaboration will equip students of various academic backgrounds to bring about new innovations in the field of agriculture and crop protection.Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Monday to take concrete steps toward complete denuclearisation and gain the trust of the international community if he wants sanctions lifted.

Ban, a former South Korean foreign minister, said "this is the time" to achieve North Korea's denuclearisation after nearly a quarter century of unsuccessful efforts, and that the North and the world should not lose this opportunity.

"I'd like to really advise the North Korean leader that the world is ready" to help his country, Ban told The Associated Press, specifically citing South Korea, the US, China, Japan and Russia.

He said denuclearisation is important for a better future for the two Koreas, including reconciliation and reunification.

"I hope this is the time, please do not lose this opportunity," he said.

Kim sharply raised tensions with nuclear and missile tests last year, but suddenly reached out to South Korea and the United States this year with a vague nuclear disarmament pledge.

US President Donald trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in say tensions have eased significantly since then, but Ban, who is in Tokyo for a World Bank event, said the crisis is not over and that North Korea should fully disclose its nuclear weapons inventory to a trusted international organisation such as the International Atomic Energy Agency.

"The crisis is still continuing because of North Korea's development of nuclear, missile and weapons program and materials. It is North Korea which should clearly state and show by taking actions, then I am sure that there will be no reason why the Security Council of the United Nations will continue to impose the sanction on North Korea," Ban said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Former UN Secretary-General urged North Korean leader on Monday to take concrete steps toward complete denuclearisation and gain the trust of the community if he wants sanctions lifted.

Ban, a former South Korean foreign minister, said "this is the time" to achieve North Korea's denuclearisation after nearly a quarter century of unsuccessful efforts, and that the North and the world should not lose this opportunity.

"I'd like to really advise the North Korean leader that the world is ready" to help his country, Ban told The Associated Press, specifically citing South Korea, the US, China, Japan and Russia.

He said denuclearisation is important for a better future for the two Koreas, including reconciliation and reunification.

"I hope this is the time, please do not lose this opportunity," he said.

Kim sharply raised tensions with nuclear and missile tests last year, but suddenly reached out to South Korea and the United States this year with a vague nuclear disarmament pledge.

is seeking security guarantees from the US and relief from sanctions.

US President Donald Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in say tensions have eased significantly since then, but Ban, who is in Tokyo for a World Bank event, said the crisis is not over and that should fully disclose its nuclear weapons inventory to a trusted organisation such as the International Atomic Energy Agency.

"The crisis is still continuing because of North Korea's development of nuclear, missile and weapons program and materials. It is which should clearly state and show by taking actions, then I am sure that there will be no reason why the Security Council of the United Nations will continue to impose the sanction on North Korea," Ban said.

South Korea's Moon has facilitated a series of high-level talks between the US and North Korea, including a summit between Trump and Kim in June, and has met Kim three times this year.

After their third meeting in North Korea's capital of Pyongyang in September, Moon said Kim agreed to make a reciprocal visit to Seoul this year.

If that happens, he would be the first North Korean leader to do so since the end of the 1950-1953 Korean War, though the plan is still unclear.

Trump recently said he is likely to hold a second summit with Kim in January or February.

Ban said he hopes their second summit will occur at a time when the international community feels confident about North Korea's commitment to denuclearisation.An anti-terrorism special tribunal in Bangladesh on Monday recorded the statement of first witness in the 2016 terror attack case, three years after the country's deadliest attack killed 22 people, mostly foreigners, including an Indian national.

Militants of the banned Neo-Jamaatul Mujahideen Bangladesh (Neo-JMB) attacked the posh Holey Artisan restaurant in the Gulshan diplomatic enclave on July 1, 2016 in the Bangladesh capital.

Twenty-two people--an Indian girl, nine Italians, seven Japanese and five Bangladeshis, including two police officers--were killed in the attack.

"Police sub-inspector Ripon Kumar Das testified before the court as the first prosecution witness, being the complainant in the case," a court official said.

Six of the eight accused, who had earlier confessed to their involvement in the attack, appeared before the court on Monday amid heavy police security to face the trial. The other two accused are on the run, but were being tried in absentia.

All the accused belonged to the banned Neo-JMB.

The trial of in the case began on November 26, when the court indicted them after reviewing the police charge sheet.

During investigations, it was found that that 21 people were involved in the assault, but police said 13 of them died in subsequent anti-terrorism clampdown.

They said only five militants staged the carnage and all of them were killed on the July 2 in a raid by the military commandos.

The Neo-JMB, said to be inclined to Islamic State or IS, executed the carnage sparking an uproar globally and signalling the strong presence of militants in the Muslim-majority country.

The outfit emerged as the revived chapter of the radical Islamist group.

Counter terrorism unit chief of Bangladesh Police, Monirul Islam earlier said the police gathered 75 pieces of evidence for the trial and mobilised 211 witnesses to the carnage to testify before the court.

Investigators alleged that the militants staged the attack to announce their strong presence in the Muslim-majority Bangladesh and particularly show their brutality by killing foreigners and draw international attention.

They said since late 2015, the Neo-JMB militants, led by Bangladeshi-origin Canadian Tamim Chowdhury, killed in a subsequent security clampdown, were carrying out small scale attacks on foreigners and non-Muslims.

The victims of the Holey Artisan restaurant were found with their throats slit when the commandos and other security forces entered the scene.

Assailants gunned down two police officers and injured over 20 others when they approached the restaurant.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Followers of spiritual guru Bhaiyyu Maharaj Monday sought a CBI inquiry into his death six months ago even as the Madhya Pradesh police maintained it was a case of suicide and ruled out any foul play.

Bhaiyyu Maharaj, whose original name was Uday Singh Deshmukh, had allegedly fatally shot himself with his licenced revolver at his residence here on June 12.

In the purported suicide note found at the spot, the 50-year-old spiritual leader had written that he was taking the step due to extreme stress in his personal life.

Addressing a press conference here, Shyam Deshmukh, one of his devotees, claimed Bhaiyyu Maharaj was killed.

"We feel that our guru was murdered. We want this case to be investigated by the CBI so that the truth can come out."



Deshmukh expressed lack of faith in the state police which is investigating the case.

"We don't trust MP police. Police are preparing to present their final report in the court," he said.

Devotees of Bhayyu Maharaj, who gathered here from different parts of the country, met with police officers here and handed them a memorandum demanding a CBI inquiry into the case.

Meanwhile, the police are firm in their conclusion, based on the investigation so far, that Bhaiyyu Maharaj had committed suicide for personal reasons.

"We have not found any evidence in the investigation so far to prove that the deceased was killed," Indore Deputy Inspector General Harinarayanachari Mishra told PTI.

"Our investigation in the case of Bhaiyyu Maharaj's suicide is almost complete and the statements of all the people concerned have already been recorded.

"By the way, if his devotees want, they can also record their statements," the senior officer said.

Bhaiyyu Maharaj hailed from a family of landlords in Madhya Pradesh's Shujalpur in Shajapur district.

He set up a charitable trust in 1999 which runs various welfare programmes in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and other states with emphasis in areas of agriculture and water conservation.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Condolence meetings and protest rallies Monday marked the 34th anniversary of the Bhopal gas disaster with survivors pushing for proper rehabilitation, adequate compensation and better medical treatment.

The world's worst industrial disaster, which took place in 1984, left thousands dead.

A large number of survivors marched to the site of the industrial disaster in the state capital to demand proper rehabilitation, adequate compensation and better medical treatment.

They also paid homage to those who died in the tragedy at the memorial built in front of the now-defunct Union Carbide factory.

Residents of the Old City area, which is next to the factory, where the groundwater is said to be contaminated by hazardous chemical waste lying in the factory premises, were also part of the march.

Protesters took out another rally from Bharat Talkies to the disaster site. Another group of protesters held a condolence meeting at Yadgar-e-Shahjahani ground.

The tragedy took place on the intervening night of December 2-3, 1984 when the highly toxic methyl isocyanate (MIC) gas leaked from the pesticide plant of Union Carbide India Ltd (UCIL) here and spread to nearby areas.

Abdul Jabbar, convener of the Bhopal Gas Peedit Mahila Udyog Sanghathan (BGPMUS), an NGO working for the survivors, said over 15,000 people were killed and five lakh others afflicted by the gas leak.

Paying tribute to the victims at Yadgar-e-Shahjahani ground, Jabbar said their struggle would continue till the survivors get justice.

"We are demanding Rs 2,500 per month permanent pension for the survivors. The pittance which was disbursed as compensation in most instances was never enough to take care of their daily needs," he said.

Jabbar said it has been a serious challenge for the survivors to find gainful employment and lead a dignified life.

He alleged the toxic waste generated during UCIL's operation from 1969 to 1984 was dumped in and around the plant, leading to severe soil and water contamination.

"A comprehensive study to estimate the extent and gravity of the damage has not been carried out. Instead, the magnitude of the problem has been grossly underestimated by authorities," Jabbar said.

Other groups representing the survivors, like the Bhopal Gas Peedit Mahila Stationery Karmchari Sangh, Bhopal Gas Peedit Mahila Purush Sangharsh Morcha, Children Against Dow Carbide and the Bhopal Group for Information and Action (BGIA) took out a torch rally Sunday evening.

On Monday morning, these organisations took out another rally to the memorial, where they paid tributes to the victim and also burnt an effigy of Union Carbide (which later merged with US-based Dow Chemicals).

They shouted slogans against Union Carbide and accused the Madhya Pradesh and central governments of neglecting the victims.

Rachna Dhingra of the Bhopal Group for Information and Action said, "The Centre has not taken a single step to stop Union Carbide's disappearance through the trifurcation of Dow-DuPont that will begin two months from now.

"Since May 2014, summonses issued repeatedly by the Bhopal District Court against Dow Chemical, US to produce absconding Union Carbide continued to be ignored."



She alleged, "The Centre has failed to get the US government's Department of Justice serve the summonses to Dow Chemical which it is obliged to do under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty signed between India and USA in 1991."



These organisations alleged recent scientific studies show that Bhopal is still reporting deaths and diseases linked to the gas leak.

Over 80 per cent of the recommendations made by the Supreme Court-appointed monitoring committee for medical rehabilitation of the Bhopal gas victims remain on paper, they have claimed.

The state government organised a separate programme at Barkatullah Bhawan, where Chief Secretary B P Singh and religious leaders paid tribute to the victims.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Bhopal gas tragedy, one of the world's worst industrial disaster, should serve as a grim reminder to people about the perils of using toxic chemicals in factories, including disability suffered by many children post the leak, a top official of a UN body said Monday.

This year marks the 34th anniversary of the disaster that claimed the lives of over 15,000 people after methyl isocyanate leaked on the intervening night of December 2-3, 1984 from the pesticide plant of Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) in that city.

More than five lakh people were affected due to the toxic leak and many children were born with deformities post the disaster.

"As we mark the anniversary of one of the world's worst industrial disaster, let the Bhopal tragedy serve as a grim reminder of the perils of using toxic chemicals in industrial plants, as the leak's ill-effects were also transmitted to the next generation, with children born with congenital deformities," Al-Amin Yusuph, Advisor for Communication and Information, UNESCO India office in New Delhi, told PTI.

He said this on the sidelines of an event held here to mark the International Day of Disabled Persons, a United Nations sanctioned day, which aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of such people.

Thirty-four years after the tragedy, survivors continue to demand proper rehabilitation and adequate compensation, besides proper medical treatment for ailments caused by the toxic leak.

Moulshri Joshi, a Delhi-based architect and an expert on industrial heritage, said the factory site evokes "painful memories" but it needs to be preserved, as the "physicality of the plant" is equally important for the next generation to see, and learn from.

"We won a competition in 2005 to design the Bhopal tragedy memorial to be built by the MP government. We understand the site evokes unpleasant memories, but that is how it should be. Some memorials should make us cry and think, rather than just being a sanitised memorial space," she told PTI.

Joshi, in 2011, was part of a team that gathered in Bhopal near the industrial site fro a conference, including researchers from foreign universities, and documents the disaster and its industrial heritage.

"So, a publication titled -- Landscapes of Memories -- was brought out. UCIL site is equally important to understand the narrative of the tragedy. When we did the workshop, we also involved ex-employees of the factory, survivors and local representatives," she said.

The architect said many people were initially upset, but then the government eventually realised the importance of the factory remnants in telling the tragic story.

"We have submitted an over 600-page detailed project report on bioremediation of the factory site, using special plants that suck toxic elements from soil and water. If we do not want another Bhopal tragedy, we need to tell the next generation what it was," she said.

Joshi said in Hiroshima too the site of the bombing has been preserved through the efforts of many people, including those of the city of Hiroshima.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome), was the only structure left standing in the area where the first atomic bomb exploded on August 6, 1945.

"Not only is it a stark and powerful symbol of the most destructive force ever created by humankind; but also expresses the hope for world peace and the ultimate elimination of all nuclear weapons," according to the UNESCO.

The 1984 Bhopal tragedy and its aftermath are of global importance. The abandoned Union Carbide factory in Bhopal is a repository of history and stories that need to be told and retold, she said.

The factory, spread over 67 acres, was built in 1969 and it is part of India's industrial heritage, she said, adding that the memorial will also talk about the perils of toxic chemical like methyl isocyanate.

"It is of immense importance, globally, as the tragedy prompted different laws on industrial safety in other countries. And, it in fact, should be a UNESCO heritage site. The memorial should tell the next generation about the grim past, as it tells them in Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland. We cannot run away from it," Joshi said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A three-member delegation of the BJP Monday called on Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik here to discuss the prevailing security situation in the state, an official spokesperson said.

Led by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president Ravinder Raina, the delegation that included General secretary (organisation) Ashok Koul and former minister Sunil Sharma Malik met Malik at the Raj Bhavan, the official said.

The leaders of the saffron party shared their views regarding the security situation and the overall development in the state as well as various important matters related to the people, the official said.

Meanwhile, three other delegations including Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh, led by its chairman cum chief executive councillor, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, also met the Governor.

Namgyal led delegation requested the governor to urge centre for granting Union Territory status to Ladakh, opening of Kailash Mansarovar route from Ladakh and inclusion of Bhoti language in the 8th schedule of the constitution, the spokesman said.

The spokesman said Director Sainik Welfare (DSW), Jammu, Brig (Retd) Harcharan Singh briefed the governor about the various ongoing schemes, including the preparation of new target oriented programmes, for promoting the welfare of all serving personnel and ex-servicemen who belong to the state.

Malik stressed the need for ensuring prompt settling of the grievances and problems faced by the serving and retired defence services personnel, their families, widows and dependents, he said.

He said state chief commissioner of Bharat Scouts and Guides I D Soni and commissioner, Bharat Scouts and Guides, J&K, M M Joshi apprised the governor about the ongoing programmes and future plans of the Organisation to strengthen scouts and guides movement in the state.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Launching the second



phase of its agitation on the Sabarimala issue, the Kerala BJP Monday began an indefinite relay fast in front of the Secretariat here.

BJP state General Secretary A N Radhakrishnan began the fast. Party workers from each of the 14 districts in the state will also be participating in the protest.

BJP MP Saroj Pandey, who inaugurated the fast, said the CPI(M)-led LDF government was acting against the will of people.

"We will raise this issue in Parliament," she said.

Describing the protest as a new beginning for the party in the state, Pandey said the state government will have to rethink on what they were doing on the Sabarimala issue.

"The road for discussion should always be open," she said.

The right-wing outfits have been up in arms against the Kerala government's decision to implement the September 28 Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all ages to offer prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala.

The opposition Congress-led UDF had said that they were with the believers on the matter.

A four-member BJP delegation comprising Members of Parliament Pandey, Nalin Kumar Kateel, Pralhad Joshi and Vinod Sonkar have been camping in the state for past two days and spoke to Ayyappa devotees on the problems faced by them.

Pandey alleged the Sabarimala issue had "worsened" due to its "mishandling" by the state government.

BJP state chief P S Sreedharan Pillai said the Communist government had arrested the saffron party leaders and workers in "false" cases.

"It is jungle justice that is happening here," he alleged.

"We just want to say that it is not CPI(M)'s constitution, but India's Constitution that is supreme," Pillai said.

The BJP leader also dismissed media reports which said the party had stopped the protests over the Sabarimala issue.

None of us have said so and truth is God, he said.

BJP MP Prahlad Joshi said the traditions at Sabarimala were being destroyed by the Communist government in Kerala.

"We will study the situation and give a report to BJP national president Amit Shah," he said.

Joshi said even under the British rule, the believers were not targeted and only freedom fighters were arrested.

"This Communist government is harassing the believers and putting them in jail. Communist means those who lack love towards the country," he said.

The BJP MP also warned the police officials who took stern action against protesters in Sabarimala and said an IPS officer "misbehaved" with a Union minister, referring to the spat between IPS officer Yatish Chandra and Union Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance Pon Radhakrishanan when he visited the hill shrine.

"We will ask Pon Radhakrishnan to move a privilege motion against the officer. We warn that police officer, he will be summoned," Joshi said.

He also said if the Communist government continued to do the same, "it will be thrown into the Bay of Bengal".

Joshi said BJP leader K Surendran was arrested "for raising his voice against Pinarayi Vijayan and the latter's corruption".

Earlier, party MPs visited Surendran who is lodged at Poojappura central jail.

Surendran was arrested last month for his alleged involvement in violent protests at Sabarimala.

The BJP MPs, however, alleged he had been falsely implicated in various cases as he raised his voice against the chief minister.

"This is 100 per cent political conspiracy to snub the BJP which is growing in Kerala. The BJP will fight for its workers. We will submit a report to Amit Shah," they said.

The MPs had also met Governor P Sathasivam at Kochi on Sunday and sought his urgent intervention to ensure that peace and tranquillity returns to Sabarimala, where they alleged the situation was akin to an "undeclared emergency" imposed by the state government.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Patidar leader Hardik Patel has said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would become an opposition party in the December 7 elections in Rajasthan where people are keen to "vote out" the party.

During his recent visit to Udaipur, the leader from Gujarat also accused the BJP of "betraying" people, especially youths in the name of job creation.

"I am holding meetings in villages of Rajasthan and the feedback from public is that they want change now. The BJP betrayed people, especially youths in the name of jobs. There is no job creation and posts in large numbers are lying vacant in the state," Patel said.

"The best place for the BJP is in opposition. It is a strong party to be in opposition and people are willing to do that in elections," he said.



Patel said the BJP governments at the centre and in Rajasthan "betrayed people on every front" and did "just vote-bank politics".

"I have held meetings in Bhilwara and Udaipur and will cover Kota and Jhalawar districts before the campaigning gets over. I am trying to understand issues here so that I can take up them more prominently," said Patel, who has been on frequent visits to the state.

He said he was not campaigning in support of Congress candidates but meeting people on behalf of his Kisan Kranti Sena to raise the issues of farmers, tribal and youths.

Polling in Rajasthan will take place on December 7.West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Monday said the BJP will be ousted from power at the Centre like the CPI(M) was removed from the state.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government had only changed the names of historical places in the country, Banerjee, a strident critic of the saffron party, said.

"We are not afraid of the red eyes of Delhi. The BJP will be out of power at the Centre soon. We (TMC) drove away the CPI(M) from Bengal, the BJP will be ousted from power at the Centre by people in the near future. This is is our pledge, our commitment," she said, speaking at a rally here in Paschim Midnapore district.

Banerjee, who is also the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo, has called a mega rally of opposition parties in Kolkata on January 19 next year as part of efforts to stop the BJP from coming back to power in the 2019 Lok Sabha election.

Slamming the saffron party's Hindutva agenda, she said, "I have great respect for the seers of the Ramakrishna Mission. But I do not respect those in the BJP, who only do drama in the name of Hindutva."



In an apparent reference to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's recent statement in poll-bound Rajasthan that Hanuman was a Dalit, Banerjee alleged that the BJP was insulting the Dalits. She, however, did not take any name.

The chief minister accused the BJP of converting institutions like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) into its party offices. "This has never happened before," she said.

Banerjee claimed that the Communist Party of India (Marxist) workers, who used to torment the people of the state during the previous Left Front rule, had now shifted to the BJP and were trying to mislead people.

"They are lying, spreading canards and conspiring against you (people)," she said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)British Industrialist of Indian-origin Sanjeev Gupta's GFG Alliance on Monday announced a binding agreement to purchase all of the outstanding stock in US-based Keystone Consolidated Industries Inc (KCI) from Contran Corporation (Contran).

Under the terms of the deal, GFG Alliance company Liberty Steel USA will acquire KCI, including all its subsidiaries, for USD 320 million in cash, less certain assumed liabilities.

The company said the purchase is expected to close by the end of this month, subject to regulatory review.

"The Keystone acquisition is a core part of GFG's GreenSteel vision to become a leading US producer of high quality, cleanly produced steel," said Gupta, executive chairman of GFG Alliance.

"As we look ahead to the future, GFG will benefit from Keystone's century-long history, its robust operations, and its reputation for producing top quality steel," he said.

According to the GFG Alliance, the acquisition will vault Liberty into position as one of the leading producers of wire rod in the US.

"KCI and its businesses offer Liberty the chance to merge our existing US steel business with one of the country's most productive wire rod operations," said GFG North American CIO Grant Quasha.

"Combined with Liberty Steel Georgetown, KCI will increase our downstream capabilities, create critical synergies, add strong management and provide better value and products for customers as we advance our US steel business to our 5mt pa goal," he said.

GFG said Keystone Steel and Wire, a division of KCI, has an over 100-year-old history in the steel and steel products business and a strong reputation for quality and performance.

KCI recently posted its strongest results in its long history and adds a top-producing wire rod facility with a 1.1 mt capacity electric arc furnace (EAF), the market leading agricultural fence products of RedBrand, industrial wire, an MBQ/SBQ bar mill, three welded wire reinforcement mesh facilities and a PC strand facility to the Liberty Steel USA family.

The deal is financed by two large North American banks, who will be providing an asset backed loan facility and funds managed by BlackRock Financial Management Inc, who will be providing a term loan.

The GFG will contribute equity and its "unencumbered" Liberty Steel Georgetown plant to the transaction.

The GFG acquired Liberty Steel Georgetown, its Georgetown, South Carolina steel plant, at the end of 2017 from Arcelor Mittal, who had mothballed the plant.

The company restarted the plant in June this year and said it has been steadily ramping production to an estimated 400 kt run rate by the first quarter of 2019, with further expansion to follow.

The GFG said it has rehired over 100 employees at the site, recruited over 50 new employees, has revitalised the facility and has re-established its reputation to be the premier producer of high carbon wire rod in the US.

Together, the KCI and the Liberty Steel Georgetown will form the core of the GFG's North American business, which the company is looking to grow further with additional acquisitions in the coming months.

The GFG plans a diverse mix of assets for the US business, ranging from the revitalisation of steel plants that had previously been taken offline, such as Georgetown, to those which are operating and performing very well like KCI.

While the current portfolio is focused on value added long steel products, the company said it is actively pursuing additional acquisitions in flat products and further downstream capabilities to drive towards 5 mt pa of capacity by 2020.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi



Adityanath Monday expressed grief over the deaths in violence in Bulandshahr and sought a probe report into the incident within two days, according to an official statement.

Inspector Subodh Kumar and a 20-year-old man were killed on Monday as a rampaging mob protesting alleged illegal cow slaughter torched a police post in Bulandshahr and clashed with police, which opened fire, officials said.

The statement said Adityanath has directed Additional Director General of Police (Intelligence) S B Shiradkar to immediately reach the spot, and submit a probe report, containing reasons behind the violence and details about the guilty, within two days.

"The chief minister said as soon as the probe report is obtained, a decision will be taken by the state government to provide financial assistance to the affected persons and initiate action against the guilty," it said.

Adityanath also directed the officials of the police and district administration to maintain peace, the statement said.

Meanwhile, Mrityunjay Kumar, the media advisor to the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister told PTI, "The Chief Minister was in constant touch with the senior officials including the DGP over the Bulandshahr incident, while he was campaigning in Rajasthan."



"As soon as, he came to know about the incident, he spoke to the DGP, and directed the ADG (intelligence) to reach the spot immediately."Adityanath addressed election rallies at Bhiilwara in Rajasthan on Monday.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.): The Indian Navy Monday said that the Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean Region has increased in recent years and they were 'cautiously observing' it.

Flag Officer Commanding, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area, Rear Admiral Alok Bhatnagar N M stated this while addressing reporters to announce the celebrations for the Indian Navy Day observed on December 4 every year.

"The Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean Region has increased over the recent years. The good part is that we are aware of it. We know their movements in the region and we are observing it cautiously, he said.

They (Chinese) have the right to be in any part of the world like we have," Bhatnagar said.

Asked if the Navy was equipped to face any threat from the Chinese in the IOR, he said the capabilities of the Indian Navy are mission-based and not targeted against any country.

"Over the years, the Indian Navy has developed its force based on a mission. Our capabilities are mission-based and not targeted against any country. Whenever we are given a mission, we will be able to accomplish it," he said.

On the expansion of the naval base in Chennai, Bhatnagar said the talks with the Tamil Nadu government were in an advanced stage and hoped for complete support from them.

"...we are in the advanced stage of consultation. We are confident of complete support of the state government for alloting us the much-required land for infrastructure augmentation," he said.

On talks with the Sri Lankan Navy and Coast Guard that are likely to be held in May 2019, Bhatnagar said that these are centered around smuggling of contraband goods, counterfeit currency and other illegal activities.

"Besides, we will put forth before Sri Lanka,the concernsc of the Indian fishermen and tell the island nation not to harm them when they cross maritime limits accidentally," he said.

The Navy Day is observed every year to commemorate its victory in the Indo-Pak war in 1971.

The theme for this year is 'Indian Navy, Mission-deployed and Combat-ready.'



As part of the celebration, medical and blood donation camps, wreath-laying ceremony, visits to ships, coastal clean- up activities, among others, are conducted during the month.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The CBI on Monday chargesheeted Delhi minister Satyendar Jain for allegedly amassing assets to the tune of Rs 1.47 crore, which the agency said was "217.20 per cent" above his known sources of income between 2015-17.

In the chargesheet filed in special CBI court at Patiala House, the agency alleged that "ill-gotten money" was routed to four companies controlled by Jain and his relatives through "accommodation entries" a term used for hawala transfers in Kolkata-based shell companies.

It alleged that his wife Poonam Jain was actively involved in the process hence she has been made accused along with Jain's business associates and relatives Ajit Prasad Jain, Vaibhav Jain, Sunil Kumar Jain and Ankush Jain.

The CBI has said Jain and his relatives had stakes in companies Prayas Info Solutions, Akinchan Developers, Mangalyatan Projects and Indo Metal Impex Pvt Ltd.

Jain, the minister for health, home, power, PWD, industries, urban development and flood and irrigation in the Aam Aadmi Party's Delhi government, was director in all but one Mangalyatan Projects, the CBI alleged.

Although he resigned from the directorship before Delhi Assembly elections in 2013, family members continued to hold shares in these companies and his shares were transferred to his wife on February 10, 2015 through whom he kept "effective" control over the firms, the agency has alleged.

It is alleged that three companies Prayas Info Solutions, Akinchan Developers, and Mangalyatan Projects received Rs 1.53 crore as accommodation entries from Kolkata-based shell companies.

The CBI has alleged that there is no explanation for Rs 1.47 crore, which is 217.20 per cent over and above his legitimate income between 2015 and 2017.

The CBI has alleged that Jain was assisted in routing this "ill-gotten money through shell companies" by chartered accountant JP Mohta and a hawala operator Rajendra Bansal.

It has claimed that he and Vaibhav Jain sent money to Bansal, who in turn provided accommodation entries in the form of share application money in the said firms from the shell companies between 2010 and 2016 even after becoming minister in the Aam Aadmi Party government.

Reacting to the development, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Twitter that Jain is being charged because of his scheme to convert unauthorised colonies into regular ones as Prime Minister Narenda Modi is fearful of that.

He said people will give a reply to Modi.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The CBI has filed a charge sheet against Delhi Health minister Satyendar Kumar Jain, his wife and a few others in a disproportionate assets case, officials said Monday.

The move comes days after the Ministry of Home Affairs granted to the CBI the sanction to prosecute Jain in a case registered by the probe agency in August 24 last year for acquiring assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.

The case was registered against Jain, his wife Poonam and a few of his associates.

Four companies -- Prayas Info Solutions, Akinchan Developers, Managalyatan Projects and Indo Metal Impex Pvt Limited -- were also named in the case.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)China on Monday reacted cautiously to the first trilateral summit between the leaders of Japan, America and India, saying it "remained open" to normal cooperation between them, and hoped they will play a constructive role in promoting peace in the region.

The first meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was held on Friday on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires in Argentina.

Modi described the Japan-America-India partnership as JAI.

The meeting assumed importance in the backdrop of China expanding its influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

Asked how China views the meeting between the three leaders, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told the media, "We remain open to the normal cooperation among relevant parties.

"We hope such cooperation will promote mutual trust and cooperation in this region and play a constructive role in promoting the peace, development and prosperity of the region," he said.

Commenting on the meeting, Chinese analysts said it will not lead to an alliance against China as stated by media reports.

"Neither Japan nor India wants to damage their improving relations with China, but admittedly they also want to maintain good ties with the US, which wants to see China in trouble," state-run Global Times quoted a Chinese expert as saying on the trilateral meeting.

Qian Feng, a research fellow at Tsinghua University's National Strategy Institute, told the Global Times that the meeting is more of a symbolic move of the US to manifest that its Indo-Pacific strategy is smoothly moving forward.

Qian said that while China needs to stay vigilant over activities that may harm its interests, it is too soon to conclude that Japan and India will join the US in dealing with China.

However, the three countries have different agendas in the Indo-Pacific, Qian said.

Japan and India are moving toward restoring their relations with China, and it doesn't do any good for them to openly risk damaging ties, Qian said.

China claims sovereignty over all of the South China Sea. Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims.

China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in the East China Sea too with Japan. Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region.

On the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) and Russia, India, China (RIC) leaders meetings held on the sidelines of the G20 meeting, Geng said the meetings while focussing on in-depth cooperation in security and improving global governance and rule-based trading system headed by World Trade Organisation (WTO) called for action against multilateralism and protectionism.

"This reflects that the BRICS belief in the core values and principles of the WTO," Geng said.

China has been calling for international efforts to oppose protectionist policies being pursued by Trump as part of his America first policy.

On the RIC meeting, Geng said the three are important countries as they are also strategic cooperative partners.

"The international situation is complex and volatile with the rising unilateralism and protectionism. We are facing sever challenges.

"The two meetings sent out voice to strengthen multilateralism, strengthen international cooperation for win win and mutually beneficial outcomes. The meetings demonstrated shared will of the developing countries and emerging market for solidarity and cooperation," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)China on Monday welcomed India and Pakistan's efforts to open the Kartarpur Corridor, saying strengthening dialogue between them and properly addressing their differences means a lot to the world peace and development.

The corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district.

Both India and Pakistan last month announced that stretches would be developed in their respective areas to link the two revered places.

"We are glad to see the good interactions between Pakistan and India. Both are important countries in South Asia. The stability of their relations means a lot to the world peace and development," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a media briefing here answering a question on the corridor.

"We sincerely hope that the two countries can strengthen coordination and dialogue, properly address their differences, improve their relations for stability and peace," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Delhi court Monday reserved for December 5 its order on sentencing of former coal secretary H C Gupta, convicted in a corruption case relating to allotment of coal blocks in West Bengal during the previous UPA regime at the Centre.

The court will also award punishment to five others, including one retired and another serving public servant -- K S Kropha and K C Samria -- held guilty for various offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act and Indian Penal Code.

Samria's lawyer informed that court that he has been suspended after he was convicted and taken into custody on November 30.

The CBI sought a maximum of seven years imprisonment for the five convicted persons and imposition of heavy fine on the private firm.

The offences for which they have been convicted entail a minimum punishment of one year in jail, going up to a maximum of seven years.

Special Judge Bharat Parashar heard for over two hours the arguments on quantum of punishment advanced by the counsel for CBI and convicts.

The court had on November 30 convicted Gupta, former joint secretary in Ministry of Coal Kropha and the then director (CA-I) in the ministry Samria.

It had also convicted the firm, Vikash Metals and Power Limited, its managing director Vikash Patni and its authorised signatory Anand Mallick.

The counsel for Gupta and four other convicted persons sought a lenient sentence. The firm's lawyer pleaded that it should not be burdened with fine as it has gone for liquidation and it was yet to meet the liability of debts.

Gupta's counsel B S Mathur pleaded that he was 70 years old and suffering from various ailments. He only had his pension given by the central government to support his family, the lawyer said, adding that he never tried to take law into his hands during the investigation or trial.

The case pertains to alleged irregularities in the allocation of Moira and Madhujore (North and South) coal blocks in West Bengal to VMPL. In September 2012, the CBI registered an FIR in the case.

CBI prosecutors Sanjay Kumar, V K Sharma and A P Singh argued that maximum punishment be awarded to the convicts keeping in view the gravity of the offence and its impact on society at large.

They contended that as per the CAG report, a loss of Rs 1.86 lakh crore was caused to the exchequer overall in the entire coal scam.

The prosecutors claimed that during the trial, attempts were made by the accused to undermine the dignity of the court, prosecutors were targeted and prosecution witnesses were harassed and humiliated by the some of the accused and their counsel.

Kropha's lawyer submitted that he was a senior citizen and his retirement benefits were under cloud. He said Kropha was the one whose efforts lead to dismantling of the screening committee and now coal blocks are allocated through the auction process.

50-year-old Samria's counsel urged the court to show mercy while awarding the punishment as he has to support an ailing wife, aged parents and two sons who are studying.

The counsel for 42-year-old Patni sought leniency saying he was the sole bread earner in the family and after allocation of coal block, his company suffered huge loss and now he was struggling to meet daily expenses.

51-year-old Mallick's advocate also submitted that he was the only earning member in the family and there was no one else to pay for his children's studies and that his conduct during the trial was impeccable.

Gupta, who was the Coal Secretary from December 31, 2005 to November 2008, has already been convicted before this in two other cases of coal block allocation in which he had been sentenced to jail for two and three years respectively. He is out on bail in both the cases.

Kropha, who was then the Joint Secretary, Ministry of coal, retired in December 2017 as the Chief Secretary of Meghalaya. He has also been convicted and sentenced to two years in another coal block allocation scam and has been on bail.

Samria then held the rank of Director in the Ministry of coal and is Joint Secretary in Ministry of Minority Affairs. He has already been convicted and sentenced to two years jail term in another case and was out on bail.

All the convicted persons were taken into judicial custody after pronouncement of the order on the direction of the court.

All have been held guilty for the offences under Prevention of Corruption Act and IPC, including cheating, criminal conspiracy and criminal misconduct.

Gupta has been accused in 12 cases of alleged irregularities in coal block allocation scam, prosecutors had said.

The CBI has filed charge sheets in connection with alleged irregularities in 40 cases of coal block allocations during the UPA-1 and UPA-2 regime.

On July 25, 2014, the Supreme Court had approved appointment of Additional Sessions Judge Parashar as special judge to exclusively deal with all coal scam cases.

Till now the special court has decided six such cases.

In the present case, the court had on August 19, 2016 framed charges, including cheating and criminal conspiracy against Gupta, the two public servants, the firm and its two officials. They all had pleaded not guilty and claimed trial. All the accused were out on bail.

The other two coal scam cases in which Gupta was earlier convicted related to Kamal Sponge Steel and Power Ltd (KSSPL) and Vini Iron and Steel Udyog Ltd(VISUL). Kropha and Samria were also convicted in KSSPL case.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)West Bengal Minister Partha Chatterjee Monday called upon college teachers to be more communicative with the students to understand their issues and not just take classes and leave for home.

The minister's comment came in the backdrop of agitation by students in several colleges of the city in the past few days after they were not allowed to appear for the first semester examination of the Calcutta University due to shortage of attendance.

"Instead of merely entering the institute and leaving for the day, you (teachers) must lisen to their (students) problems.... "I am also asking the students to have faith and trust in the university," Chatterjee told reporters.

Stating that the issue of students' agitation over attendance in colleges was being blown out of proportion, he said it was reported in only seven or eight colleges.

The students were to sit for first semester examination of the Calcutta University but only those with a minimum of 60 per cent attendance were allowed.

Chatterjee unveiled the model test paper for Madhyamik (Class 10 Board examination) students published by the West Bengal Board of Secondary

He alleged that a section of publishers bringing out model Madhyamik answer papers are claiming in their advertisements that they have the seal of approval of the Board.

"This is not fair. It will mislead the people. Such ads should not take the name of any state agency," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Congress on Monday said Justice Kurian Joseph's remarks after demitting office have proved its allegations against the government of interference in the highest levels of judiciary, and demanded separate parliamentary and judicial inquiries into the matter.

The opposition party made the allegation of interference citing the retired Supreme Court judge's sensational claim after demitting office that the previous Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra was working under some influence of an "external source".

Justice Joseph, however, refused to elaborate on who the external source was and the cases where there was a bias and administration of justice affected.

Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi, at a press conference, claimed the grave apprehensions of his party over "interference" in the highest levels of the judiciary have been proved by Justice Joseph's remarks.

"No less than a Supreme Court judge who demitted office a couple of days ago... has expressly articulated the grave threat to India's highest judicial institution," Singhvi said.

"Justice Joseph has in clear and unequivocal terms talked of the arbitrary bench selection, external influences, by implication remote controls, and political biases injected into the system by the government of India, by the ruling party," he alleged.

There was no immediate reaction from the government or the BJP to the allegations.

The Congress was not concerned about how the judicial organ looks at such things because it was fully competent to deal with it, but it was concerned about the accountability owed by the government, Singhvi said.

The Congress, therefore, demands a response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Singhvi said.

It has become clear that the Modi government was using the CJI as its puppet, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala alleged in a tweet.

Singhvi said, "The nation rightfully wants to know the true nature, the true extent, the degree and the subject matter of the interference of the government. We further condemn this unconstitutional, invasive and illegal effort by the government."



"The government has become known for its dirty tricks department and for the abysmal erosion of bodies like the CBI, the Lokpal, the CIC, universities and now the Supreme Court," Singhvi alleged.

He said it was important that it comes to light which were those cases in which "these blatant and despicable initiatives" were taken by the government, who took these initiatives and how many times was it done.

"I would call this a government of the interfering, by those who have much to hide and for cover up of its misdeeds," he said.

"We therefore need independent and separate parliamentary and judicial inquiry," he said.

Asked if the party was demanding a joint parliamentary committee probe, he said: "Ultimately, a parliamentary inquiry will have to be a JPC."



Justice Joseph along with three of the most senior judges of the apex court--Justices J Chelameswar, who has since retired, Ranjan Gogoi, who is the current Chief Justice, and Madan Lokur--staged an open revolt against the then CJI Misra by convening a press conference on January 12 to flag their concerns about alleged preferential allocation of sensitive cases to judges low down on the top court's hierarchy.

"The then CJI was working under some influence of some external source. He was remote-controlled by an external source. There was some influence of some external source that was impacting the administration of justice," Justice Joseph told PTI. Joseph retired on November 29.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In an apparent attack at the Nehru-Gandhi family, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday alleged that those who ruled the country for four generations shattered Mahatma Gandhi's dream of cleanliness as they wanted people to remember their own dynasty.

Addressing an election rally here, Modi said it fell upon him to fulfill Mahatma Gandhi's dreams and also asserted that the country has now been able to realise its tourism potential with foreigners seeing India even as a 'wedding destination'.

"They forgot Mahatma Gandhi's dreams because they knew nobody would remember 'naamdaar (dynast) Gandhi' if the 'fakir Gandhi' remains in people's memory," Modi said.

Modi said the country could not benefit from the tourism industry as much as it should have as cleanliness is the foundation of tourism and the previous Congress governments did not do anything for this.

"The Congress ruled the country for four decades but we never heard them taking the issue of cleanliness. They shattered Mahatma Gandhi's dreams," Modi said.

He said tourism is now giving job to people from roadside hawkers to travel companies and Rajasthan has become one of the most attractive tourist spots in India.

"Were the forts, palaces in Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer built after Modi came to power? Did they not exist during the Congress's rule? Despite the fact, why was the tourism industry in the country not growing?" he asked.

He said the country's tourism has grown at 10-15 per cent annually in the last four years.

"Last year, one crore international tourists visited the country. India is now becoming a famous wedding destination among foreigners," he said.

"Had the country stressed on tourism from the beginning, India would have been on the top. The country could not take the benefit from the industry compared to its potential because it was not promoted well," Modi said.

He said that cleanliness should have been dealt with in the last 70 years, but the Congress did not care.

"I took it upon me to start the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan, which not only cleaned the country, but also gave a boost to tourism and generated employment," he said.

The prime minister said that he did not promise to construct palaces, bridges and hotels after coming to power, but to build toilets.

He said nine crore toilets have been constructed in the last four years in the country, including 80 lakh in Rajasthan alone, so that the women do not have to defecate in open.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Congress on Monday hit out at Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over violence in Buland shahr, saying it was the worst kind of failure of law and order and he should set his own house in order before "gallivanting" around the country for campaigning in elections.

A police inspector and a youth were killed on Monday as a mob protesting over illegal cow slaughter went on a rampage torching a police post and clashing with police, which opened fire.

As tension prevailed in the area following the violence that lasted nearly three hours, the Uttar Pradesh government deployed additional police, including over 1,000 personnel of anti-riot forces, and ordered multiple probes -- by SIT, ADG-Intelligence -- and a magisterial inquiry.

Congress' spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi, at a press conference, said the failure of this nature in a state like UP was the "worst kind of failure of law and order and governance".

Singhvi slammed Adityanath for "telling other people" to follow his example, saying the chief minister is campaigning across the country and such violence is happening in his own backyard.

"Here is the poster boy of the BJP in terms of good governance... He should first set his own house in order before gallivanting across the country campaigning and preaching others. This is an utter failure of the law and order situation," he said.

Singhvi also conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and expressed regret over the damage to property.

Meanwhile, Congress's chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said that after "handing over" Uttar Pradesh to "anti-social" elements, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is busy campaigning for his party.

"Absence of law and order and violence unleashed by mobocracy is the real identity of BJP governments," he tweeted in Hindi.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Congress candidate Avasar Nakiya filed his nomination on Monday for Gujarat's Jasdan Assembly seat bypoll to be held on December 20.

The by-election was necessitated after sitting MLA Kunvarji Bavaliya switched sides from the Congress to join the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and resigned as member of the state Assembly on July 2.

Nakiya's name for the by-election was announced by Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Sunday.

Before submitting his nomination form to the election officer on Monday, Nakiya led a rally of his supporters in Jasdan along with state Congress president Amit Chavda and Leader of Opposition Paresh Dhanani.

"We have the support of people from both rural and urban areas, and the Congress will continue to retain its stronghold in the constituency and fight for people," Nakiya said after filing his nomination.

Chavda said the way people turned up to support Avasar showed that they were with the Congress.

"The party has taken up the issues affecting people due to the BJP's misrule," he said.

Nakiya is the former vice president of the Rajkot district panchayat.

The election will be held on December 20 and counting of votes will take place on December 23.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Piyush Goyal Monday accused the Congress of indulging in politics of religion and caste.

Addressing a press conference in Rajasthan which goes to polls on December 7, the Union Railways Minister said: "Congress has always done politics based on religion and caste whereas the BJP never asks anyone his/her caste or religion. It believes in the motto of 'Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas'."



Defending incumbent chief minister Vasundhara Raje, Goyal said she had inherited the state from the Congress in a poor financial condition but her efforts had pulled it out of 'bimaru' (sick) category.

Various development works were done by the chief minister, Goyal said, adding that BJP would return to power in the state.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Four people, including two Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers and a sub-inspector, were arrested Monday in connection with the police constable's recruitment exam paper leak, an official said.

The exam was cancelled hours before it was scheduled to commence on Sunday after authorities learnt that the paper had got leaked.

As many as 8.75 lakh candidates were scheduled to appear for the exam at 2,440 centres across Gujarat.

Since two of the accused - Manhar Patel and Mukesh Chaudhary - were associated with the ruling BJP, the state party unit ordered their suspension with immediate effect following their arrest.

The other two accused are Rupal Sharma, who worked at a hostel in Gandhinagar and is the daughter of a former police sub-inspector, and sub-inspector V P Patel, posted at the wireless department in Gandhinagar.

Chaudhary and Sharma were also supposed to appear in the examination, Gandhinagar's Superintendent of Police Mayur Chavda told reporters.

He said the main accused, Yashpal Solanki, was still at large and efforts were on to nab him.

The paper was leaked from Delhi by Solanki, a native of Lunawada in Mahisagar district. He worked as an ad-hoc employee of the Vadodara Municipal Corporation, he said.

Solanki allegedly went to Delhi on the night of November 30 and managed to get answers of some of the questions to be asked in the written exam, Chavda said.

"He flew back to Vadodara the next day and passed on answers of the questions to be asked in the paper to some people, including Manhar Patel, who in-turn passed them to Chaudhary," he said.

Manhar Patel was a BJP worker from Bayad taluka in Arvalli district while Chaudhary was an elected member of Vadgam taluka panchayat of Banaskantha.

"As per their plan, Manhar Patel, Chaudhary, Sharma and eight to ten other candidates gathered at Sharma's hostel on Sunday morning to discuss the leaked questions. After going through the answers, they all dispersed," Chavda said.

He said sub-inspector V P Patel, who knew Manhar Patel, also wanted the answers for some candidates who were appearing for the exam.

The sub-inspector has been suspended following his arrest, he added.

Preliminary investigation has revealed that no money was paid to anyone for leaking the question paper, however, things will be clear after Solanki's arrest, Chavda said.

"We have formed teams to nab him. Some other accused are also on our radar," he said.

After the names of the two BJP workers cropped up in connection with the offence, the state party unit chief Jitu Vaghani issued a statement saying that both of them have been suspended from the party.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Delhi court on Monday discharged Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and six others in a case of alleged rioting in front of the house of the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2012.

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal passed the order.

According to the prosecution, on August 26, 2012, Kejriwal and others had held a demonstration against coal scam in front of Singh's house and in order to stop them, water cannons were used following which the volunteers became violent.

Thereafter, police had fired several rounds of tear gas to driving them off. Certain mischievous elements then attacked the police with flag sticks. The barricade was damaged along with certain plants, the police said.

The Delhi Police had booked them for the alleged offences under Sections 147 (rioting), 148 (rioting armed with deadly weapon) and 149 (every member of unlawful assembly guilty of offence committed in prosecution of common object) of the Indian Penal Code.

Kejriwal and other accused persons were represented through advocate Mohd Irshad in the court.

Besides Kejriwal, the court also discharged Ghan Shyam, Mahesh, Deepak Chhabra, Ranjit Bisht, Amit Kumar Singh and Gautam Kumar Singh.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Russian, American and Canadian astronauts will blast off Monday for the first manned Soyuz mission since a frightening failed launch in October, with the three feeling confident despite the risks.

Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, Anne McClain of NASA and David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency will launch at 1131 GMT aboard a Soyuz from Baikonur in Kazakhstan for a six-and-a-half month mission on the International Space Station.

It will be the first manned launch for the Soviet-era Soyuz since October 11, when a rocket carrying Russia's Aleksey Ovchinin and US astronaut Nick Hague failed just minutes after blast-off, forcing the pair to make an emergency landing.

They escaped unharmed but the failed launch -- the first such incident in Russia's post-Soviet history -- raised concerns about the state of the Soyuz programme.

The Soyuz is the only means of reaching the ISS since the United States retired the space shuttle in 2011.

Kononenko, McClain and Saint-Jacques showed no signs of worry as they boarded a bus on Monday to take them to the launch. They smiled and waved, with Saint-Jacques blowing kisses and giving the thumbs-up to a crowd of well-wishers.

At a press conference on the eve of the launch, crew commander Kononenko said the astronauts "absolutely" trusted teams preparing for the flight.

"Risk is part of our profession," the 54-year-old said.

"We are psychologically and technically prepared for blast-off and any situation which, God forbid, may occur on board."



McClain, a 39-year-old former military pilot, said the crew looked forward to going up.

"We feel very ready for it," she said.

Saint-Jacques, 48, described the Soyuz spacecraft as "incredibly safe".

The accident highlighted the "smart design of the Soyuz and the incredible work that the search and rescue people here on the ground are ready to do every launch," he said.

In a successful rehearsal for Monday's flight, a Soyuz cargo vessel took off on November 16 from Baikonur and delivered several tons of food, fuel and supplies to the ISS.

Russia said last month the October launch had failed because of a sensor that was damaged during assembly at the Baikonur cosmodrome but insisted the spacecraft remained reliable.

Ahead of Monday's launch a Russian Orthodox priest blessed the spaceship on its launchpad, in accordance with tradition.

Of the trio set to reach the ISS six hours after blast-off, both Saint-Jacques and McClain will by flying for the first time.

Kononenko is beginning his fourth mission to add to an impressive 533 days in space.

The veteran noted that the crew would conduct a spacewalk on December 11 as part of an investigation into a mysterious hole that has caused an air leak on the ISS.

Saint-Jacques will be the first Canadian astronaut to visit the space station since Chris Hadfield, who recorded a version of David Bowie's "Space Oddity" on board in 2013.

Canada's governor general and former astronaut Julie Payette will be among the dignitaries watching the launch.

Saint-Jacques joked that he had received so much training ahead of the flight "that I felt at the end that I could build a Soyuz in my backyard."



McClain served in Iraq and has represented the United States in women's rugby.

She has said that training to spacewalk resembled the sport since it demands "grit, toughness, mental focus, and more".

Russia-US cooperation in space has remained one of the few areas not affected by a crisis in ties between the former Cold War enemies.

But comments by the combative chief of the Russian space agency, Dmitry Rogozin, have increasingly raised eyebrows.

He recently joked Russia would send a mission to the Moon to "verify" whether or not NASA lunar landings ever took place.

In recent years Russia's debt-laden space industry has suffered a number of mishaps including the loss of cargo spacecraft and satellites.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Delhi government launched a common mobility card which can be used by people for travelling in metro trains, DTC and cluster buses, Transport minister Kailash Gahlot said on Monday.

He said the government will also launch an app through which commuters can plan multi-modal trips, including buses and metro trains in the city.

The minister along with Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) Managing Director Mangu Singh launched the 'rebranded' common mobility card named 'ONE'.

Presently, smart card of the Delhi Metro is being used for the purpose of common mobility.

The 'ONE' cards with tagline 'One Delhi, One Ride' have a background of cubic grid in bright shades of red and yellow. It will also have a circular unit with sketches of metro trains, DTC buses, auto rickshaws and monuments of the city.

"The Delhi government is committed to providing people a seamless, high-quality travel experience of city's public transport system," Gahlot said.

The cards will be available for sale at all metro stations and DTC pass counters from Tuesday.

The existing metro smart cards will continue to stay valid, but any new card or replacement will be through 'ONE' card, an official said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Indian Navy Monday said it has not given "any bill" to the Kerala government after carrying out rescue and relief operations during the deluge in August.

About 17,000 people, caught in the gushing waters in flood-ravaged Kerala, were rescued by the Navy.

"We have not given any bill to the state government," Vice Admiral Anil Kumar Chawla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, told reporters here.

His statement came in response to a question on reports that some agencies involved in rescue efforts during the floods in August this year had given bills worth crores for rupees to the state government.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan recently said the state has to pay Rs 290 crore to the Centre towards the rations received and rescue assistance provided during the floods.

"Air Force has asked the state to pay over Rs 33.79 crore as the charge incurred for the rescue efforts during the deluge," Vijayan said last week.

The vice admiral said according to the policy of the Indian Navy, expenses for humanitarian assistance are borne by the Navy itself.

He said the Navy considers such deployment "as part of our training.... it is part of our mandate and part of our operational deployment."



In all, the Indian Navy had rescued 16,843 people, of which 1,173 were airlifted.

Navy personnel, who were part of the rescue mission code named "Operation Madad" in Kerala, had displayed their skills and courage in rescuing thousands of people from the worst floods experienced by the state in a century.

Responding to another question on Indian Navy's injured sailor Commander Abhilash Tomy's return to his favourite sports, the vice admiral said he was sure that "he will be able to go back to sailing."



Abhilash had suffered severe injury when the main mast of his boat was ripped off in a storm in the high seas while participating in the Golden Globe Race in September.

"He suffered a very unfortunate accident. Fortunately, there was no injury to his spinal chord," the vice admiral added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Just days after retiring, former judge Kurian Joseph has dropped a bombshell claiming ex- was "remote-controlled by an external source", an explosive accusation that, he said, impacted the administration of justice.

Justice(retd) Joseph was among the four senior judges of the apex court who staged an open revolt against justice Misra by convening an unprecedented press conference on January 12 to flag their concerns about preferential allocation of sensitive cases to judges low down on the top court's hierarchy. Justices J Chelameswar, who has since retired, Ranjan Gogoi, the current Chief Justice and Madan Lokur were the other judges.

The Monday said Justice Joseph's remarks proved its allegations against the government of interference in the highest levels of the judiciary, and demanded separate parliamentary and judicial inquiries into the matter. There was no immediate reaction from the government or the to spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi's claims of alleged interference made at a press conference.

"The then CJI was working under some influence of some external source. He was remote-controlled by an external source. There was some influence of some external source that was impacting the administration of justice," Justice Joseph told PTI. Joseph retired on November 29.

There was no immediate reaction from Justice Misra.

Asked about the basis on which he was making his claim, Justice Joseph said this was the perception among the judges, who went public over issues dogging the apex court, as well as among other judges of the court.

He refused to elaborate on who the external source was and the cases where there was a bias and administration of justice affected.

Pressed again on whether the alleged influence was exerted by some political party or the government in any particular case, Justice Joseph said the judges were only of the view that there was some bias by the judge concerned.

He said there was no need to make a reference to any particular case.

"I am sorry. I don't want to take it any forward," he said.

A former CJI, who did not want to be named, said it is for Justice Joseph to come out with the basis on which he has levelled serious allegations against Justice Misra.

He further said the statements made by Justice Joseph does not mean that the entire institution(Supreme Court) has crumbled.

Justice Joseph said the presser had an impact and things started changing for good during the remaining part of Justice Misra's tenure as CJI and is now continuing under the stewardship of Justice Gogoi. Misra retired on October 2.

He said there was an improvement in the quality of the functioning of the court and the perception about the independence of the institution.

"All issues and changes the four senior judges were thinking at the January 12 press conference were started by CJI Misra and since it is the continuous process, the present CJI Ranjan Gogoi is taking it forward."



He also said the issues which have come now in the public domain are in the context of the same press conference.



Justice Joseph said before the presser, the four judges conveyed to Justice Misra about the alleged influence of external sources on him, adding they had also flagged the issue of some cases being adjudicated with a perception of bias.

"Certainly, whatever the facts were with us at that time, we had conveyed it to the then CJI," he added.

Justice Joseph told NDTV that the former CJI wasn't taking decisions independently.

"We are sure that the Chief Justice was not taking decisions on his own," he said.

Justice Joseph said the decision to hold the press conference was taken after being sure that the then CJI was "under an external influence".

Asked about the Judge B H Loya case, Justice Joseph said he cannot comment on it and that this chapter is now closed.

To a query as to who was remote-controlling Justice Misra, Justice Joseph said they "could not pinpoint who was behind". One instance that was pointed out at the press conference itself was the allocation of cases in the apex court.

The allocation of petitions seeking a re-investigation into the death of judge Loya -- as is commonly perceived -- was not the only reason for the press conference, he said.

"That was the issue on that day. Doesn't mean it was the only issue we were disturbed with. There were several issues... in the matter of allocation of cases and governance of the Supreme Court," he said.

The on April 19 rejected the PILs seeking probe into the death of special CBI judge B H Loya, ruling he had died of "natural causes".

Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, died of cardiac arrest in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleague's daughter.

President Amit Shah was among others who were the accused in the case when he was the Minister of State for Home in Gujarat. Shah was subsequently discharged by a trial court.Inspired by Akshay Kumar's film "Padman" which raised awareness about menstrual hygiene, a 13-year-old Dubai-based girl has adopted 250 girls from rural Maharashtra and donated sanitary napkins to them.

Riva Tulpule, whose family hails from Maharashtra, managed to collect funds for the cause in Dubai in the last couple of months.

She flew down to India last week and distributed about one-year stock of sanitary pads to girls from schools in Sahapur taluka on Saturday.

"I saw 'Padman' some months back and came to know about problems faced by girls during the days of their periods. I immediately decided to do something for girls living in villages in India, specially Maharashtra," she said.

The Class 8 student said she also discussed her idea with Konkan Graduate's constituency MLC Niranjan Davkhare during his visit to Dubai, and he encouraged her to take it forward.

Around Diwali time, Riva appealed to people in Dubai to donate money for the cause and within a short span, she managed enough sum to buy sanitary pads for 250 girls, she said.

The napkins were distributed by the teenager at a function organised by Davkhare's NGO 'Samanvay Pratishthan', which works for social causes.

Davkhare appreciated the girl's efforts to raise awareness about menstrual hygiene.

"Riva Tulpule a 8th Standard student from Dubai, this Diwali decided to do something special & took up an initiative to adopt 250 girls from rural Maharashtra and support them with full year of Sanitary Pads....," the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator said in a tweet.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Delhi University Teachers' Association (DUTA) on Monday urged the varsity to promulgate an ordinance on Reservation Roster for teaching positions.

In July, the appointment of academic staff in higher institutions (HEIs) was put on hold by the University Grants Commission till the Supreme Court issued its verdict on the special leave petition filed by the HRD Ministry against a court order curtailing reservation for SC/ST and OBCs.

The UGC had announced in March that an individual department should be considered as the base unit to calculate the number of teaching posts to be reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates following an order by the Allahabad High Court in April last year.

Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Prakash Javadekar has issued statements about the government's proposal to bring an Ordinance to resolve the matter in favour of implementation of the 200-point roster treating college/university as unit, the DUTA said.

While DUTA welcomed the statements when they appeared, it has been forced to initiate protest actions to demand immediate promulgation of the promised Ordinance as several months have passed, it added.

The association has also approached political parties to take up the matter in the upcoming session of Parliament.

"The repeated mistakes/tardiness on the matter point to errors of commission rather than omission on the part of the government. The DUTA reiterates its demand for an immediate promulgation of the promised Ordinance so that appointment/regularisation of teachers can begin on the basis of a just reservation roster without any further delay," they added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Dutch motivational speaker Emile Ratelband may feel like a 49-year-old but according to Dutch law he is still 69.

A Dutch court on Monday rejected Ratelband's request to shave 20 years off his age in a case that drew worldwide attention.

"Ratelband is at liberty to feel 20 years younger than his real age and to act accordingly," Arnhem court said in a press statement.

"But amending his date of birth would cause 20 years of records to vanish from the register of births, deaths, marriages and registered partnerships. This would have a variety of undesirable legal and societal implications."



Ratelband went to court last month, arguing that he didn't feel 69 years and saying his request was consistent with other forms of personal transformation which are gaining acceptance in the Netherlands and around the world, such as the ability to change one's name or gender.

The court rejected that argument, saying that unlike in the case of a name or gender, Dutch law assigns rights and obligations based on age "such as the right to vote and the duty to attend school. If Ratelband's request was allowed, those age requirements would become meaningless."



Ratelband, perhaps unsurprisingly given his background as self-described advocate of positive thinking, was undeterred by the court's rejection and vowed to appeal.

"This is great!" he said. "The rejection of (the) court is great ... because they give all kinds of angles where we can connect when we go in appeal."



He said he was the first of "thousands of people who want to change their age." The court said it acknowledged "a trend in society for people to feel fit and healthy for longer, but did not regard that as a valid argument for amending a person's date of birth."



Ratelband also insisted his case did have parallels with requests for name and gender changes. "I say it's comparable because it has to do with my feeling, with respect about who I think ... I am, my identity," he said.

The court said Ratelband failed to convince the judges that he suffers from age discrimination, adding that "there are other alternatives available for challenging age discrimination, rather than amending a person's date of birth.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An employee of a television channel has been arrested for allegedly raping his colleague in west Delhi's Punjabi Bagh area, police said Monday.

Based on a complaint filed by the victim at the Punjabi Bagh police station, the man was arrested in connection with the incident last week, they said.

Police said the accused heads one of the departments at the channel.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The era of "rani-praja" in Rajasthan is over and no amount of campaigning and propaganda will bring the BJP back to power in the state, says Congress leader Sachin Pilot in a swipe against Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and her 'royal' lineage.

Criss-crossing the desert state in a bid to bring the Congress back to power, Pilot said the BJP's rule in the state has seen corruption being patronised. But this would change with the assembly elections on December 7, he said.

"The regime of rani-praja' (queen-public) is going to be over in Rajasthan and people will vote for Congress on December 7 to bring in positive government.

"The BJP has been exposed and people are counting the days... they have made up their mind to vote out BJP, Pilot told PTI during his campaign through eastern Rajasthan on Sunday.

He started his day from Jaipur, where he boarded a chopper to Raje's home turf Dholpur to address a meeting.

The Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) chief said he is overwhelmed by the response the party is getting and the impact of this will be visible on December 11, when the results are announced.

In Pilot's view, the BJP has touched a new low in by spreading negativity and false propaganda to mislead people and to cover up the failures of its government. The Congress, in contrast, has evolved a positive narrative to usher in a new era of development.

They (the BJP) were until now doing in the name of Ram and have now dragged in Hanuman for I am also a Hanuman 'bhakt' and chant the Hanuman Chalisa, but no one imagined that BJP leaders would make such comments on Hindu gods, Pilot said.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had said in Alwar during a rally last week that Lord Hanuman was a dalit.

According to Pilot, BJP leaders had ignored the plight of people and were absent in the last five years.

"No amount of campaigning will now save the BJP... The people of Rajasthan suffered immensely in five years. Today, when leaders of the BJP are coming to campaign in Rajasthan, they have no answers to questions about the plight of the people," the 41-year-old said, driving himself from the helipad to the site of the rally and acknowledging the waving crowds.

Not one of the BJP's so called stalwarts was there to share the pain and misery of farmers when they were committing suicide... when Dalits and tribals were suffering atrocities. Crimes against women increased under the rule of a woman chief minister. But in these last five years, no one came to share their pain and wipe their tears," he said.

Attacking Raje, who belongs to the erstwhile royal family of Gwalior, he said people were now coming to campaign but voters had made up their minds to show the door to the corrupt and inefficient state government.

When farmers in the field were shedding tears and taking the extreme step of ending their lives, the chief minister was just concerned about giving contracts of 'bajri' (gravel) and liquor to people in her palace," Pilot said.

He said more than 150 farmers had committed suicide in the state but the government was not bothered. And, instead of talking on these issues, BJP leaders were trying to cover up the Raje government's failures.

We are seeking votes not just on the corruption and inefficiency of the Vasundhara government, but on a positive narrative... Our manifesto is very clear, with no jumla or false promises. What we can do is very clearly mentioned. People have hopes from us, specially young people and farmers, Pilot said.

The BJP, on its part, has expressed confidence that it will return to power.

Addressing a rally on Monday, BJP president Amit Shah hailed development works and public welfare schemes implemented by the Vasundhara Raje government in the state. Narendra Modi-led BJP government has worked to make the country secure, he added.

Pilot, a two-time MP, has been tirelessly holding rallies and campaigning in various constituencies of the state, apart from Tonk where he is contesting his first assembly election.

I don't get much time to sleep but I manage to take a nap in the chopper, he said.

From Dholpur, Pilot moved to Kemri village in Todabhim constituency, where he again got behind the wheel to reach the meeting venue.

On Sunday, he covered seven assembly constituencies in Dholpur, Karauli, Dausa and Jaipur districts.

We have seen so many politicians holding rallies but they come straight to the meeting ground from helipad. But Pilot not only drove the vehicle from the narrow lanes but also greeted us with smiling face," Sugar Singh, a resident of Dholpur, said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Days after he retired, Justice Kurian Joseph, one of the four Supreme Court judges who held an unprecedented press conference in January, on Monday made a sensational claim that the previous CJI Dipak Misra was working under some influence of an "external source", adding this impacted the administration of justice.

Justice Joseph along with three of the most senior judges of the apex court--Justices J Chelameswar, who has since retired, Ranjan Gogoi, who is the current Chief Justice, and Madan Lokur--staged an open revolt against justice Misra by convening the press conference on January 12 to flag their concerns about preferential allocation of sensitive cases to judges low down on the top court's hierarchy.

"The then CJI was working under some influence of some external source. He was remote-controlled by an external source. There was some influence of some external source that was impacting the administration of justice," justice Joseph told PTI. Joseph retired on November 29.

Asked about the basis on which he was making his claim, Justice Joseph said this was the perception among the judges, who went public over issues dogging the apex court, as well as among other judges of the court.

He refused to elaborate on who the external source was and the cases where there was a bias and administration of justice affected.

Pressed again on whether the alleged influence was exerted by some political party or the government in any particular case, justice Joseph said the judges were only of the view that there was some bias by the judge concerned.

He said there was no need to make a reference to any particular case.

"I am sorry. I don't want to take it any forward," he said.

The retired judge, however, said the presser had an impact and things started changing for good during the remaining part of justice Misra's tenure as CJI and is now continuing under the stewardship of the justice Gogoi. Misra retired on October 2.

He said there was an improvement in the quality of the functioning of the court and the perception about the independence of the institution.

"All issues and changes the four senior judges were thinking at the January 12 press conference were started by CJI Misra and since it is the continuous process, the present CJI Ranjan Gogoi is taking it forward."



He also said the issues which have come now in the public domain are in the context of the same press conference.

He said before the presser, the four judges conveyed to justice Misra about the alleged influence of external sources on him, adding they had also flagged the issue of some cases being adjudicated with a perception of bias.

"Certainly, whatever the facts were with us at that time, we had conveyed it to the then CJI," he added.

Justice Joseph told NDTV that the former CJI wasn't taking decisions independently.

"We are sure that the Chief Justice was not taking decisions on his own," he said.

Justice Joseph said the decision to hold the press conference was taken after being sure that the then CJI was "under an external influence".

Asked about the Judge B H Loya case, justice Joseph said he cannot comment on it and that this chapter is now closed.

To a query as to who was remote-controlling justice Misra, justice Joseph said they "could not pinpoint who was behind". One instance that was pointed out at the press conference itself was the allocation of cases in the apex court.

The allocation of petitions seeking a re-investigation into the death of judge Loya -- as is commonly perceived -- was not the only reason for the press conference, he said.

"That was the issue on that day. Doesn't mean it was the only issue we were disturbed with. There were several issues... in the matter of allocation of cases and governance of the Supreme Court," he said.

The Supreme Court on April 19 rejected the PILs seeking probe into the death of special CBI judge B H Loya, ruling he had died of "natural causes".

Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, died of cardiac arrest in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleague's daughter.

BJP President Amit Shah was among others who were the accused in the case when he was the Minister of State for Home in Gujarat. Shah was subsequently discharged by a trial court.

On the issue of minority tag being a hindrance to career progression, justice Joseph told PTI, "I am totally talking about my own case as it was perceived that I became the Supreme Court judge only because I belonged to the minority community".

He said, "But this was not the case, as things became clear it was found that my appointment was on the basis of merit".

Justice Joseph also advocated that selection of judges in the higher judiciary be on the basis of merit and nothing else.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)West Bengal minister and TMC candidate Firhad Hakim on Monday secured 121 votes in the 144-member Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) to win the mayoral election.

The result of the mayoral election, conducted through a secret-ballot system, was announced by the civic body's municipal secretary, Harihar Prasad Mondal.

BJP candidate Meena Devi Purohit, who contested the polls against Hakim, bagged five votes. Twelve Left Front and two Congress councillors boycotted the election.

Last week, CPI(M) councillor Bilquis Begum had moved the Calcutta High Court, challenging Hakim's election on the ground that he was not a councillor from any ward of the civic body. The high court on Friday refused to stay the election.

The ruling TMC has 122 seats in the KMC House, the Left Front 14, the BJP five, the Congress two, while one seat remains vacant. Sources said one TMC councillor gave Monday's election a miss due to ill health.

Hakim, who is also the urban development and municipal affairs minister, was chosen as the mayor designate by Trinamool Congress (TMC) councillors, following Sovan Chatterjee's resignation from the post.

Chatterjee visited the KMC headquarters in New Market area of the city to cast his vote.

Talking to media after the announcement of the results, Chatterjee extended his best wishes to Hakim. "I am sure the KMC will function well under the leadership of the new mayor.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Following are the top foreign stories at 2015 hours:



FGN32 PAK-GOOGLY-IMRAN



Imran Khan says Kartarpur corridor's opening was not 'googly'Islamabad: Attempting to do some damage control, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said Monday that the Kartarpur corridor's opening was not a googly but a straight-forward decision, contradicting his Foreign Minister's remarks that led to a war of words with his Indian counterpart.

FGN28 LANKA-COURT-2NDLD RAJAPAKSA



Sri Lankan court bars Rajapaksa from acting as Prime Minister



Colombo: A Sri Lankan court on Monday barred Mahinda Rajapaksa from acting as Prime Minister, in a major setback to President Maithripala Sirisena who installed him after sacking premier Ranil Wickremesinghe that triggered a major constitutional crisis in the country.

FGN26 BUSH-2NDLD PLANE



In rare honour, Air Force One arrives in Houston to carry Bush casket to Washington



Houston: President Donald Trump's Air Force One, which has been redesignated as 'Special Air Mission 41' in a "special tribute" to George H W Bush, arrived here to transport the body of the former president to Washington for a state funeral at National Cathedral on Wednesday. By Seema Hakhu Kachru



FGN35 AFPAK-TRUMP-LD LETTER



Trump writes to Imran Khan; seeks help in bringing Taliban to negotiating table



Islamabad: US President Donald Trump has written to Prime Minister Imran Khan, seeking Pakistan's help with stuttering Afghan peace talks and support in bringing the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year brutal war in the neighbouring country, officials here said. By Sajjad Hussain



FGN20 PAK-KARTARPUR



Pak opens immigration centre at Kartarpur border



Lahore: Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims.

The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community.By M Zulqernain



FGN23 INDONEPAL-MADHAV



Nepal neither used China card against India nor India card against China: Madhav



Kathmandu: Nepal neither used the China card against India nor the India card against China, and wants to develop good relations with its neighbours on the basis of self-respect and sovereignty, a former Nepalese prime minister has said here. By Dipak Ranjan.

FGN19 CHINA-JAI-REAX



China reacts guardedly to first JAI summit



Beijing: China on Monday reacted cautiously to the first trilateral summit between the leaders of Japan, America and India, saying it "remained open" to normal cooperation between them, and hoped they will play a constructive role in promoting peace in the region. By K J M Varma



FGN22 CHINA-US-CARS-2NDLD TARIFF



Trump says China to cut car tariffs in trade truce



Beijing: China will roll back tariffs on US-made cars, US President Donald Trump said, unveiling another potential breakthrough in a trade war truce that cheered stock markets on Monday.(AFP)



FGN18 QATAR-3RDLD OPEC



Qatar will pull out of OPEC amid tension with Saudi Arabia



Dubai: The tiny, energy-rich Arab nation of Qatar announced on Monday it would withdraw from OPEC, mixing its aspirations to increase production outside of the cartel's constraints with the of slighting the Saudi-dominated group amid the kingdom's boycott of Doha. (AP)



FGN15 UN-CLIMATE-LD GUTERRES



World 'way off course' in climate change fight: UN chief



Katowice: The world is "way off course" in its plan to prevent catastrophic climate change, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Monday as the COP24 summit officially opened in Poland. (AFP)



FGN34 US-CHINA-TRADE



US needs to see 'something concrete' from China in 90 days: Mnuchin



Washington: The US will need to see "something concrete" from China on trade in the next 90 days to build a real agreement, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Monday.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Three bike-borne assailants shot dead a former district vice president of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) in the early hours Monday in Ghaziabad's Loni, police said.

Bhagat singh Khari (30) was shot at when he was on his way to collect milk from cattle owners in Chirori town for selling at his shop, they said.

Senior Superintendent of Police Upendra Agarwal said Khari left his home as usual but three bike-borne youths accosted him and opened fire at him barely 200 metres away from his residence.

He was immediately rushed to Mohan Nagar hospital where doctors declared him brought dead.

According to the post-mortem report, the attackers pumped nine bullets into Khari.

The deceased's father, Omkar Khari, who retired as a sub-inspector from the CBI three years ago, said his family does not have any kind of enmity or dispute with anyone.

Three teams of police have been deputed to crack the murder case, the SSP added



The traders of Chirori town downed their shutters to protest the shooting.

Locals blocked the road to express their anguish over the killing.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The French government has no plans currently to impose a state of emergency over the "yellow vest" protests which caused chaos and destruction in Paris over the weekend, junior interior minister Laurent Nunez said Monday.

"It's one option among others, but for now it's not on the table," Nunez told RTL radio, after calls by several police unions for expanded powers to contain the demonstrations.

States of emergency were imposed after nationwide riots in 2005 by youths in poor suburbs, and after the jihadist attacks in Paris in November 2015.

Many of the provisions, including expanded ID checks and restrictions on public gatherings, were incorporated into a new security law pushed through by President Emmanuel Macron when the emergency measures were lifted last year.

Some of the "yellow vest" demonstrators have already called for a third round of protests in Paris on Saturday, despite the violence over the weekend when dozens of vehicles were burned and shops vandalised.

Asked about the possibility that the next protest would be banned, Nunez said: "We'd have to be capable of stopping it, because these are determined people who would come anyway."



He claimed that some of last Saturday's protesters "clearly intended to kill", citing the seizure of hammers and steel marbles among some of the 412 people arrested, and the near-lynching of a police officer near the Arc de Triomphe war memorial.

The government is holding crisis talks Monday with leaders of other political parties on how to respond to the grassroot protests, which erupted last month after months of simmering anger across much of the country over fuel tax increases.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Donald Trump was overheard saying "get me out of here" to an aide as he left the stage before a group photo at the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in the latest gaffe by the US president.

Trump, who was supposed to remain on stage for the group photo with the G20 leaders, shook hands with his Argentine counterpart Mauricio Macri and walked off the stage on Saturday, leaving him alone.

Macri indicated Trump to come back without any success.

Trump was then chased by an aide.

A microphone recorded Trump telling the aide "get me out of here."



Trump eventually returned to pose for the group photo with other G20 leaders, marking the end of the two-day Summit.

It was not the first time Trump committed a gaffe.

In Israel last year, Trump walked in the other direction when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reached out to shake his hand in front of the cameras during a press conference.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)One of the biggest mysteries surrounding the arrest of Nissan's former chairman Carlos Ghosn is over how he allegedly could have underreported his income by millions of dollars for years and why the company is going after the suspected wrongdoing now.

Ghosn, who headed the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Motors auto alliance, was arrested November 19 on suspicion he underreported his income by USD 44 million over five years, or about half of what he was really making.

Nissan Motor Co and Mitsubishi have ousted him as chairman; the board of Renault SA of France says it's waiting for more evidence.

Nissan is among a growing list of top-name Japanese companies whose corporate governance has been found lacking in recent years.

"Wait a minute. Who wrote the financial statements? The accountants. Who audited them? The auditors," Christopher Richter, auto analyst for CLSA Securities Japan Co., said of the case.

"How do you do this without other people being complicit?" Japanese prosecutors say Ghosn and another Nissan executive, Greg Kelly, an American suspected of collaborating with him, were arrested because they are considered flight risks.

But the timing of the scandal, given the length and scale of the alleged wrongdoing, is raising questions.

Why did Nissan choose to come forward now, asks Eric Schiffer, chief executive of Reputation Management Consultants in the Los Angeles, California, area.

"If Nissan knew about this all along and decided to pull the trigger, such Machiavellian tactics will significantly backfire on the brand," Schiffer said.

Japanese media have reported that two other company employees contacted authorities as whistleblowers and sought plea deals.

Ghosn has not made any public statements about the case.

Kelly's American lawyer Aubrey Harwell said his client, who was dismissed as a Nissan executive director after his arrest, did nothing wrong.

Kelly acted "according to the law and according to company policy," Hartwell said.

"He had talked to people in the company and to outsiders, and he believed everything he did was done totally legally," he said in a telephone interview from his office in Nashville, Tennessee.

Prosecutors have released very little information. Neither man has been officially charged.

Under the Japanese system, suspects can be held for weeks for questioning without any charges.

A source familiar with an internal investigation by Nissan said the hidden salary was categorised as "deferred income," meaning it was promised for later on, such as after Ghosn's retirement, and the documents promising the money were kept secret from auditors and others.

He spoke on condition of anonymity as he was not authorised to discuss such details.

One possible motive is that Ghosn was seeking to avoid public criticism over his multi-million dollar paychecks, which are a rarity in Japan even for top executives.

Even the underreported amounts, about 1 billion yen (USD 9 million) each year, drew unwelcome scrutiny and commentary.

Ghosn was forced to defend his salary at shareholders' meetings beginning in 2010, when Japan began requiring the disclosure of individual executive pay.

Executive pay packages in the west tend to be higher Toyota Motor Corp's Chief Executive Akio Toyoda earns less than 400 million yen (USD 3.5 million) a year.

But many Japanese companies lack the sorts of systematic checks required for publicly listed US companies.

That includes periodically changing who checks financial statements instead of having the same people do it for many years. Japan needs independent oversight for executive pay, said corporate governance expert Takuji Saito, who teaches at Keio Business School.

"The problem here was that the pay was significant, in line with global standards, but the way it was decided was still so Japanese," he said of Nissan's lack of transparency.

"Nissan deserves criticism for having allowed this to continue unchecked for so long."



Saito believes that failing to report deferred income is still "a gray area in criminality" in Japan, but a clear problem in corporate governance.

It's certainly turned out to be a big problem for Ghosn, 64.

He is being held at a Tokyo detention center pending his indictment or release and has hired Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP to represent him.

Japanese media say, without citing sources, that Ghosn is asserting his innocence, insisting he always wanted his income reports to be legal and denying he signed secret documents. Prosecutors have refused to comment.

Whether a suspect intended to commit a crime or did it unknowingly is important in determining criminality under Japanese law.

Nissan veteran Hiroto Saikawa, who took over from Ghosn as the automaker's chief executive last year, has harshly criticized his former boss and vowed to instill greater transparency and accountability at Nissan.

The company is setting up a panel of outsiders to come up with recommendations, including reviewing the company's executive compensation system.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The government expects to mop up about Rs 90 billion by selling off land and real estate properties of debt-laden Air India, an official said Monday.

The sale of land, building and other realty assets is part of the government's plan to trim the Rs 550 billion debt burden of Air India as this will make the airline competitive and fetch a better valuation when the government plans strategic sale of national carrier again.

Finance Minister headed ministerial panel had last week approved transferring Rs 290 billion debt to a special purpose vehicle (SPV) -- Air India Asset Holding Company.

ALSO READ: Air India to transfer Rs 290 billion debt to special purpose vehicle

The funds raised through sale of the properties would be used to reduce the Rs 290 billion debt, held in the SPV.

"We are looking to raise about Rs 90 billion from sale of land and property assets of Air India. These include Airlines House in Bombay, realty property in Delhi's Vasant Vihar and land in Baba Kharak Singh Marg, next to Connaught Place," an official told PTI.

Last week the ministerial panel on had cleared strategic sale of Air India ground handling subsidiary Air India Air Transport Services Limited (AIATSL).

The proceeds from sale of AIATSL will also be used to reduce the debt held in the SPV.

AIATSL earned Rs 616.6 million profit in financial year 2016-17.

"We are going step by step to reduce the debt of Air India. When we hit the markets again with strategic sale of Air India, potential investors will find it lucrative to purchase the carrier. These are all steps towards sale of Air India," the official added.

The national carrier had in September invited bids to sell its properties located across India.

The airline had put up for sale 28 flats in Mumbai, seven flats in Ahmedabad, and two flats and an office space in Pune, besides several other properties across the country.

The government had originally proposed to offload 76 per cent equity share capital of the national carrier as well as transfer the management control to private players.

However, the stake sale failed to attract any bidders when the bidding process got completed on May 31. In June, the ministerial panel decided not to go ahead with Air India stake sale in an election year.

It was decided to make Air India competitive by way of cutting down debt and raising resources by selling land assets and other subsidiaries.Singapore-based transportation services provider Grab is in discussions to invest around USD 100 million (over Rs 700 crore) in hospitality firm OYO, according to sources.

Grab is expected to close the deal within this week, people aware of the matter said.

Both OYO and Grab have earmarked Indonesia and Southeast Asia as their key markets.

In October this year, OYO said it had forayed into Indonesia and also confirmed an investment of over USD 100 million in the country as part of its expansion in Southeast Asia.

"We intend to invest over USD 100 million in this high growth market and plan to expand to the top 35 cities in Indonesia, including Yogyakarta, Bandung, Bali, over the next 15 months," OYO Founder and CEO Ritesh Agarwal said earlier.

Indonesia is one of the top choices for both global and Indian travellers and with OYO's market learning and expertise the company is ready to tap this opportunity, he added.

OYO also looks forward to create over 60,000 (direct and indirect) livelihood opportunities in Indonesia, Agarwal said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Delhi High Court on Monday put on hold a practice in the Tihar Jail under which 25 per cent of the salaries of prisoners is deducted for a victim compensation fund.

A bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice V K Rao stayed the deductions till February 8, 2019, the next date of hearing on a PIL which has opposed this practice.

The plea by one Katyayini, filed through advocate Ajay Verma, has sought quashing of an August 2006 notification and the Delhi Prison Rules of 1988 which mandate the deduction.

The Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLSA) has also opposed the deduction for creating a victim compensation fund, saying it was "not reasonable or justified" as the AAP government has now created a scheme for victims.

The DSLSA said the rule for deducting 25 per cent of wages of prisoners was inserted in the Delhi Prison Rules when there was no provision for compensating victims under the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).

However, in 2009, a provision was inserted in CrPC for putting in place a scheme for compensating victims or their dependants, the DSLSA has said in an affidavit and added that subsequently the Delhi Victims Compensation Scheme came into force.

No purpose would be served by maintaining a separate victim welfare fund with the jails, it has said.

"In view of the Delhi Victims Compensation Scheme and Fund, the significance of deduction of wages of prisoners is lost.

"Moreover, the rates of wages which are payable to the prisoners show that they are already on a very low side compared to the minimum wages that are payable in Delhi and further deduction from the same may not be justified or proper. The deduction from the wages of the prisoners for contribution to the victim welfare fund does not appear reasonable and justified," the DSLSA has said.

With regard to utilisation of the money, more than Rs 14 crore, which is presently lying unused in the victim welfare fund in the jail, the DSLSA said it could either be transferred to the Delhi Victim Compensation Fund or be moved into the corpus created in 2014 for providing financial sustenance, education and welfare of children of incarcerated parents.

The authority, however, was not in favour of reimbursing the amounts to the prisoners, saying it would be a "highly tedious task and may not be called for in absence of any prisoner having come forward for the same".

"It is respectfully submitted that there are a number of convicts in the jails whose children need support under the said scheme but the funds available are not sufficient. Moreover, if the funds are transferred to the said scheme (of 2014), it would achieve the objective that the funds are utilized for the benefit of children of the convicts themselves," the DSLSA has said.

The court on the last date had questioned the practice of 25 per cent deduction from prisoners wages for a victim welfare fund, saying it was the government's obligation to set up such a corpus.

It had said the Director General of Prisons of the Delhi government "cannot do something which was not permissible under the law".

The PIL has claimed that of the over Rs 15 crore collected since 2006 from wages of convicts lodged in the Tihar Jail, approximately only Rs 80.73 lakh has been disbursed to 194 eligible victims and the remaining over Rs 14 crore lay unused.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A plea has been filed in the Allahabad High Court seeking a stay on alleged changing of the natural stream of River Ganga by the district administration as part of preparations for Kumbh Mela in February next year.

The court will take up the matter on December 10.

The plea states that at Sangam, a stream of River Ganga is naturally divided into two parts but the administration of Kumbh Mela Prayagraj through machines was digging out the sand in between the two streams to merge them.

It was being done so that a major chunk of land is made available for allotment to seers and religious organisations for setting up their camps during Kumbh mela, it said.

The application filed against the change of natural flow of River Ganga during Kumbh Mela will be heard by a bench comprising Chief Justice Govind Mathur and Justice YK Srivastava.

The plea of the applicant is that during the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, 15-16 crore pilgrims are expected to come and take holy dip in River Ganga.

It has been submitted that because of the change in flow of River Ganga, there is ample possibility of disturbance in ecosystem.

The applicant has also asked the court to direct the state government to release sufficient water in the river during Kumbh Mela. The application is filed in a PIL relating to a matter of Ganga pollution pending in the High Court.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A member in the newly formed State Advisory Board on Disability has urged the Himachal Pradesh government to prepare without any further delay a new state policy for persons with disabilities.

The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPD) Act, 2016, was supposed to be implemented from April 19, 2016 and accordingly, a new state disability policy was to be made but no action has been taken in this regard and the pace of implementation of the Act in Himachal Pradesh is very slow, said Ajai Srivastava, an expert member in the State Advisory Board on Disability.

Talking to PTI Monday on International Day for Persons with disabilities, Srivastava said the new Act included 14 more benchmark disabilities and the total number of types of disabilities has gone to 21.

Despite their inclusion, the persons with newly included benchmark disabilities such as thalassemia, deaf-blind, specific learning disabilities, hemophilia, autism, multiple sclerosis and sickle cell disease are totally deprived of their rights as they are not being issued disability certificates as per the new law, he added.

Srivastava, who is also the Chairman of Umang Foundation, which is supporting the disabled students, said he shot off a letter to Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, urging him to immediately prepare required new policy for the disabled persons.

The Himachal Pradesh High Court had ordered on June 4, 2015 to provide free education to all disabled children up to the university level in all courses on his public interest litigation (PIL), he said, adding the universities implemented it but colleges, Polytechnics and ITIs are still charging fees from the disabled students.

"There is no effective mechanism in place to protect the rights of children with intellectual disabilities who are forced to study the same syllabus in schools which is taught to other children," Srivastava said.

He said, "There is an urgent need to design a separate curriculum for them as per their specific needs and a different certification of their qualification."



Srivastava said computer education and accessibility in all public places including educational institutions are other areas on which the government must focus.

The government should start day-care centers for intellectually disabled at tehsil level and provide grant to NGOs who are running such centres, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The first of the two Indigenous Aircraft Carriers (IAC) is expected to be inducted into the Indian Navy in 2020 and will be based with the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) here, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the ENC, Vice-Admiral Karambir Singh said Monday.

Addressing a press conference onboard the INS Sahyadri on the eve of Navy Day here, Singh said IAC-1 was currently being built in Kochi under the Maritime Capability Perspective Plan.

A MiG-29 squadron would also be positioned at the ENC once the IAC-1 was inducted, he said.

"In keeping with the country's maritime interests, the Navy has a requirement of two operational aircraft carriers. The Maritime Capability Perspective Plan envisages a force level of three aircraft carriers to ensure availability of at least two Carrier Battle Groups at any given time," the Vice-Admiral said.

While INS Vikramaditya has already been inducted in line with this plan, IAC-1 was under construction, he said.

"The case for IAC-2 is being progressed to meet all future requirements without any degradation in force levels," he added.

The Navy was building required infrastructure like berthing facilities and associated services at the ENC for IAC-1.

Plans were also afoot to build a 10,000-ton ship-lift facility at the Naval Dockyard here. Once commissioned, this would be the second such facility in the country after the one at Karwar, he said.

Singh said orders were issued for building 27 warships and submarines under the Make in India initiative that would aid the capability building programme of the Navy.

"On an average, four to five warships, including submarines, are normally inducted in a year. So, the new ones are expected to be inducted in the next five or six years," he said, in reply to a question.

On the increasing positioning of rival warships in the Indian Ocean region, the ENC chief said they too enhanced deployment of ships, submarines and aircrafts.

"We have transitioned to mission-based deployments, aimed at maximising our time at sea with defined outcomes. We also have automatic identification systems in place, specially in 'choke points' like the Malabar Straits," he said.

"Having designated our role in the Indian Ocean Region as the net security provider, the aim of these deployments is to have presence in relevant areas so as to secure our maritime interests and also assure our friends in the region that we are available to assist in the event of a developing situation," the Vice Admiral said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Several research scholars and hostel inmates of here have alleged harassment and violation of their privacy by officers during checks conducted in their rooms, a charge denied by the Dean of students.

The hostel residents, both men and women, say the officers barge into rooms, insult and click pictures without consent and their behaviour violates the students' right to privacy and dignity.

The dean of students, M S Srinivas, said that they had received complaints from students and the officers have been apprised of the issues and told not to click photographs.

He said the charges do not reveal the whole picture, adding checks are conducted by ex-servicemen trained to deal with such issues.

" officers are the ones tasked to enforce hostel rules and check for violations. We don't know if we can call it harassment or enforcement," he told PTI.

A woman research scholar, who did not wish to be named, alleged that vigilance officials barge into rooms, pull things out and call them names for their personal choices.

"We are all adults...it is really demeaning to experience all this. We might have a lot of stuff that we do not want others to see. It need not even be prohibited things. It is a clear violation of our right to privacy and dignity," she said.

An informal report, a compilation of harassment faced by students on campus, initiated by the students last year, had alleged rampant "moral policing" by security personnel, non-academic staff, faculty and fellow students.

The survey had also said students were targeted for the kind of clothes they wore and public display of affection, among others.

A male post-graduate student, who resides in one of the 20 hostels, alleged the fines imposed for violation of rules were "arbitrary" and ranged from Rs 2,000 to Rs 20,000.

"Students have no idea about the slabs and it has not been put up anywhere on the campus," he said.

A woman Ph.D scholar alleged that vigilance teams take note of girl students visiting boys in their hostels and conduct checks even if they go there during permitted hours.

Hostel rules state that girl students are permitted to visit male college mates in their rooms only for academic purposes, provided they deposit their ID cards with the security staff there and sign in the visitor's notebook.

However, Srinivas said vigilance officers do not conduct checks in every room, but only random checks.

"If a girl is found in a boy's room, the officers just check if she is an IIT-M student. Besides, guidelines on fines applicable for violations are available with wardens," he said.

Suggesting specific rules for each section of students, Srinivas said that students at IIT-M range from 17-year-olds to research scholars aged around 35. Perhaps the present rules seem unreasonable to those in the older age bracket, he said.

"It is tough to have one rule for undergraduates and another for Ph.D scholars unless hostels are different. We are yet to be at that level to afford separate hostels for research scholars. When that happens, we will implement rules that are more targeted," he said.The National Company Law Tribunal Monday asked nine former directors, including chairman and vice-chairman, of the crippled IL&FS group to disclose their assets and restrained them from selling or mortgaging their properties till the next date of hearing.

The bankruptcy court gave them three weeks to file response and declare their assets and fixed the next hearing on January 16, 2019. The court however, did not allow the government submission for freezing their accounts.

The Mumbai bench of the NCLT passed the interim order while hearing a fresh affidavit moved by the corporate affairs ministry that sought to freeze the accounts of these former top management of the IL&FS group, which was taken over by the government on October 1, following a string of defaults by its subsidiaries.

In the additional affidavit submitted Monday, the ministry added six more names of past senior management.

The fresh affidavit was necessitated after the Serious Frauds Investigation Office (SFIO) submitted an interim report which cited fraudulent activities by the past management. The ministry demand for freezing their accounts was based on the SFIO findings.

An NCLT bench, headed by judges VP Singh and Ravikumar Duraisamy, passed the interim order against these nine former top executives.

The hearing was slated for pre-noon, but most of these affected parties sought time to go through the papers against them and thus the hearing was conducted in the evening.

The affected parties include the ousted chairman Ravi Parthsarthy, the past vice-chairman and managing director Hari Sankaran; Arun K Saha, the past company secretary; and the ex-managing director Ramesh Chander Bawa.

Others who have been restrained from selling/mortgaging assets and to disclose income include K Ramachandaran, a former vice-president in-charge of administration; an ex-non-executive director Pradeep Puri; S Rangarajan, the past managing director and chief executive of IL&FS Securities Services; Mukund Sapre, who was an executive director at IL&FS Transportation Networks and also the managing director of IL&FS Engineering; and Vaibhav Kapoor, a ex-non-executive director.

The bench asked them to restrain from disposing of or creating any third-party rights on their properties till January 16.

Giving them three weeks to file their replies and two weeks to submit rejoinders if any, the court told the government counsel that it cannot pass any order before giving them an opportunity to respond.

The cash-starved company, which owes over Rs 94,300 crore to dozens of creditors, has been defaulting on bank loans and other debt repayments since the last week of August. So far, the group and its 348 subsidiaries have defaulted on repayments worth Rs 5,000 crore.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)President Donald Trump's Air Force One, which has been redesignated as 'Special Air Mission 41' in a "special tribute" to George H W Bush, arrived here to transport the body of the former president to Washington for a state funeral at National Cathedral on Wednesday.

Bush, the 41st president of the US who led America during the dramatic collapse of the Soviet Union and engineered the defeat of an audacious Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, died in Houston on Friday at the age of 94.

President Trump, who has announced a national day of mourning on Wednesday, said on Saturday that the Air Force One will bring the casket of Bush to Washington, describing it as "a special tribute that the former president deserves very much."



By tradition, the aircraft is called Air Force One when the president is on board. President Trump is not travelling on the aircraft, so the plane has been redesignated as "Special Air Mission 41" to honour Bush.

"Air Force One has arrived in Houston for what will technically be called 'Special Air Mission 41' tomorrow and Wednesday. A beautiful day in Texas -- 'ceiling and visibility unlimited,' Mr. President," Jim McGrath, a spokesperson for the Bush family, tweeted.

McGrath also shared a photo of Bush's service dog Sully, lying in front of the president's casket. The photo has been shared over 14,000 times as of Sunday night.

Bush -- only the second president to see his son follow him to the Oval Office -- will be honoured with four days of services and tributes in Washington and in Texas, where he will be buried on Thursday.

Bush's son George -- the 43rd president of the United States -- and other loved ones are expected to travel on the presidential jet.

The former president will have two funerals -- a state funeral at the National Cathedral and a local funeral at St. Martin's Episcopal Church in Houston.

Officials also held what appeared to be a dry run for moving Bush's casket to Washington.

His body will lay in state at the Capitol Rotunda after an arrival ceremony on Monday. The public is invited and can pay their respects from Monday evening until Wednesday morning.

Bush's office said the state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral will be held on Wednesday morning.

The late president's remains will then be returned to Houston on Wednesday. A public viewing will be held from Wednesday evening until Thursday morning followed by the funeral service at St. Martin's Episcopal Church in Houston.

On Thursday, the president's casket will be taken by train to College Station, Texas, accompanied by the Bush family members and close friends. A funeral procession will then travel on George Bush Drive toward the Bush Library complex.

According to sources in the White House, President Trump and first lady Melania would attend the funeral service in Houston on Thursday. Former presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and Jimmy Carter are also likely to attend the event.

The state funeral for the 41st president, whose death sparked tributes from around the world and across the political aisle, will be the first presidential funeral since Gerald Ford died in 2006.

Bush will be buried in Texas next to his wife, Barbara, and their daughter, Robin, who died in 1953.

President Bush was suffering from Parkinson's disease that forced him to use a wheelchair in recent years, and he had been in and out of hospitals in recent months as his health declined.

The decorated war pilot and former CIA chief was elected president on November 8, 1988. He was sworn in on January 20, 1989, and served until January 20, 1993.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The National Liberation Front of Twipra (NLFT), a banned tribal insurgent outfit, has claimed it is in talks with the Tripura and central governments to solve the state's problems.

The state director general of police (DGP) refused to comment on the claim saying the issue is "confidential", while the pricipal secretary of tribal welfare department said he was not aware of the government being engaged in any dialogue with the NLFT.

"We have recently concluded 4th round of tripartite talks in order to solve problems of the state. The NLFT is looking forward for a permanent solution," the outfit said in a statement on Sunday.

The NLFT was formed in 1989 and the central government banned it under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in 1997 and later under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA). The objective of the NLFT is to establish an independent Twipra (Tripura) through an armed movement.

Asked about the purported tripartite talks, Tripura DGP Akhil Kumar Shukla declined to comment.

"These things are confidential. I will not comment. You have come to know (about the statement), I have also come to know," Shukla said.

Principal Secretary for Home, Kumar Alok, was not available for comments.

Tribal Welfare Principal Secretary L H Darlong said he was not aware of peace talks with the outfit.

"There was a peace talk with the insurgent outfits like NLFT three years back. The talks were held somewhere in Shillong and also in Delhi. A few insurgents surrendered after the peace talks but there was no response from them after that. I am not aware of any peace talk which is in progress with NLFT now," he said.

The NLFT statement also claimed that it has stopped collecting "subscriptions" but some people are collecting money in the name of the organisation.

"We appeal to all the people of the state not to give money to any one since we have not given any instruction in such a matter," self styled NLFT Information and Publicity Secretary D Khasmai said in the statement.

In September this year, NLFT allegedly issued extortion notices in three villages in Gandacherra sub- division bordering Bangladesh in Dhalai district.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)India is doing a "commendable job" in providing accessible environment to disabled people, but a "lot more need to be done" to improve the scenario, especially in providing them education and skills, a top official of the UNESCO said Monday.

Al-Amin Yusuph, Advisor for Communication and Information, UNESCO India office here, said this on the occasion of International Day of Disabled Persons, a United Nations sanctioned day, which aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of such people and celebrate their achievements and contributions.

"We congratulate India for the steps taken, be it political, legislative or social for improving accessibility for them in various public spaces and enhancing their lives in general. But, much more need to be done in India, and around the world," Yusuph said.

This year's theme for the day focuses on empowering persons with disabilities for an inclusive, equitable and sustainable development as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development which pledges to "leave no one behind".

"We need to increase awareness, whether politically, socio-economically or culturally. People with disability are more likely to face adverse socio-economic outcomes than those who do not have any, like less education, poorer health outcomes, high poverty rates," Yusuph said.

The UNESCO official, at an event here, also urged the media and other stakeholders to play a constructive role in improving the scenario.

"I strongly emphasise that many times, including in the media, promoting people with disability in a positive way is often portrayed as charity or sympathy. We all need to work together and it is not a matter of charity but human rights," he said.

In his address, Yusuph also highlighted that besides improving accessible environment, work also needs to be done on education and skill of the disabled people.

If we take the 2011 census of India, one can compare the situation, a large number of those who were disabled were illiterate, and many were not working, he said, adding that training and vocational activities are important activities that need to be taken up.

Yusuph, later interacting with PTI on the sidelines, said, "India has done a commendable job when it comes to working on providing accessible environment to disabled people, but there is still room to do more, including in areas of education and skilling activities."



International Day of Disabled Persons is being observed since 1992 and the UN in a statement said governments, persons with disabilities and their representative organisations, academic institutions and the private sector need to work as a "team" to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Nishtha Dudeja, winner of Miss Deaf India 2018, was among the guests present during the event held at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation Office to mark the day.

"I am very happy to be part of this event. Through my life, I want to bridge the gap between ability and disability," she said.

Four disabled youth from Bangaluru-based Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled did a special dance performance 'Sunadha' during the event and a few short thematic films were also screened.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) has confirmed that eleven al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) terrorists were killed in a precision airstrike, conducted near Al Uwaynat, in southern Libya, last Thursday.

AFRICOM said three vehicles were destroyed.

In coordination with the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA), U.S. Africa Command conducted a precision airstrike near Al Uwaynat, Libya, November 29, 2018, killing eleven (11) al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) terrorists and destroying three (3) vehicles, AFRICOM said in a press release.

At this time, we assess no civilians were injured or killed in this strike.

AFRICOM will use precision strikes to deny terrorists safe haven in Libya. We will keep pressure on their network, and they remain vulnerable wherever they are, said U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Gregg P. Olson, director of operations, U.S. Africa Command.

This is the third U.S. strike against AQIM in Libya. The last strike against AQIM occurred on June 13, 2018, resulting in the death of one terrorist.

The United States will not relent in its mission to degrade, disrupt, and destroy terrorist organizations and bring stability to the region. We are committed to maintaining pressure on the terror network and preventing terrorists from establishing safe haven, the AFRICOM press release said.Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh asserted Monday that India would soon be counted among the top three countries in the world as its economy is poised to expand at a fast rate.

Addressing an election rally in Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje's constituency, Jhalrapatan, Singh said that entire world believes that the day is not far when India will stand among the top countries Russia, China and the US.

"India will replace one of the top three countries of the world," he said.

Singh said India's economy is growing at a fast pace.

"The country was ranked ninth in top 10 countries of the world in 2014 and figures reveal that India became the fastest growing (major) economy after Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led BJP government came into power (that year)," he said.

Singh exuded confidence that the BJP will form the government in Rajasthan for the fourth consecutive term in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

In Jhalrapatan, Raje is contesting against Manvendra Singh, who quit the BJP and joined the Congress ahead of the assembly election.

Raje formed government in the state with a massive majority in 2013.

There are 200 assembly seats in Rajasthan and election for 199 seats would be held on December 7 as polling on one seat has to be postponed following the death of a BSP candidate.

Votes would be counted on December 11.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Ratings and Research Monday affirmed state-run of Baroda's long-term issuer rating at 'AAA', with a stable outlook.

It has also affirmed the lender's short-term issuer rating at 'A1+'.

The long-term issuer rating reflects of Baroda's high systemically important position, and hence, a high probability of support from the government if required, the rating agency said in a note.

The lender continues to be among the better capitalised (PSBs), with a common equity tier 1 of 9.05 per cent in the first half of the current fiscal, against 9.23 per cent in FY18.

The agency said its capitalisation could strengthen further if it manages its risk weights and growth, and increases its profitability.

The also has an option to raise capital by monetising non-core assets, planned over FY19-FY20, to support its capital requirements, it added.

"The bank is well-placed to gain market share in the current environment, where a sizeable proportion of and non-banking financial companies are struggling," the note said.

The lender's asset quality is modest with high delinquencies than similar rated banks, the agency said.

Its gross non-performing assets (NPAs) marginally declined to 11.78 per cent in the first half of FY19, compared with 12.26 per cent in FY18.

The provision coverage excluding technical write-offs was about 62 per cent in the first half of FY19.

The rating agency further said the Bank of Baroda-Dena Bank- merger could result in harmonisation of asset recognition.

The bank's had a total deposit market share of 5.3 per cent as on March 31, 2018.

The note said the share would further expand with the proposed merger with andIndia's containerised trade with the world grew by 10 per cent year-on-year in the July-September quarter, a report by global container shipping company Maersk said Monday.

The demand for India-made goods such as vehicles and mechanical appliances as well as refrigerated cargo such as onions, meat, seafood, and pharmaceuticals have driven exports, the company said.

"Increasing competitiveness of Indian exports, coupled with improved demand in various destination countries, has propelled exports to grow at 10 per cent year-on-year.... Simultaneously, imports have risen 9 per cent year-on-year, largely dominated by a heavy inflow of paper, metal and white goods," the report said.

Overall, the containerised market has displayed strength, with far less fluctuation compared to the previous year.

Commenting on the healthy containerised growth, Steve Felder, Managing Director for Maersk Line South Asia said, "The upward movement in global commodity prices, depreciation of the Indian rupee and recent major shipping-logistics reforms such as liberalised cabotage policy and Direct Port Delivery are instrumental in supporting the export-import trade between India and global markets."



With fast growing trade figures that are significantly higher than the estimated global containerised demand growth, coupled with strategic competitive pricing, India is emerging as a favourable trade destination for both advanced and emerging markets, he said.

The US, the United Arab Emirates and Nigeria have become significant export destinations for exporters from West India, the report said, adding while exports from West India witnessed a contraction of 15 per cent in the third quarter of 2017, exports increased by 10 per cent year-on-year in the same quarter of 2018 on the back of high volume exports of India-made automobiles and machinery.

Rising demand for chemicals, metals, machinery and white goods have also been driving import growth at 9 per cent year-on-year for East India, it said.

Countries like the US, Canada, the UK and South Korea have been the leading import origins for this growing region.

In terms of commodity trade, the high demand for pharmaceutical, vehicles, metals and sea-food have driven the import-export trade in international markets.

The report said the Indian pharma sector witnessed high export growth to North American nations in July-September 2018, doubling in volume.

"Strong demand from regions of Latin America, Africa and surrounding countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have pushed exports of India-made vehicles to grow 36 per cent year-on-year. Metal imports have increased 33 per cent year-on-year, on the back of metal scrap driving this growth into the North and West regions of India," it said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)An Indian national was arrested from Tribhuvan International Airport here Monday for allegedly smuggling nearly half-a-kilogram of gold into the country.

Police arrested Rajesh Govinda Bhai Sagarparia as soon as he landed at Kathmandu airport from Dubai in the afternoon, officials said.

During a security check, a police team stationed at the airport arrested Sagarparia for bringing a gold bracelet and two gold chains, with a combined weight of 417 gram, from Dubai without paying customs duty, sources in the Nepal Police headquarters said.

The police have taken Sagarparia into custody and have initiated further investigation into the matter.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Guided missile frigate INS Betwa, which had suffered a mishap at the Naval dockyard in Mumbai in 2016, is expected to join the fleet in the "third quarter" of 2019 with "improved capacity", Vice Admiral Girish Luthra said here Monday.

One of the key warships of the Western Naval Command, the 3,850-tonne and 126-metre long frigate is armed with Uran anti-ship missiles, Barak 1 surface-to-air missiles and torpedoes.

"INS Betwa is undergoing refit and its capacity is being improved. Machinery as well as other equipment is being refitted. The ship will be fully ready by the third quarter of 2019," vice admiral Luthra told reporters on the eve of Navy Day.

Two crew members were killed when the ship tipped over to its side during a refit at the Naval Dockyard during dry docking in December 2016.

Naval sources had said that repairing of INS Betwa had taken longer than expected.

Responding to another query, the vice admiral said refitting work worth Rs 750 crore of the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya has been completed in a shorter period.

"The refitting work of the aircraft carrier was supposed to be over by November 30, but we completed it 12 days in advance. Now the flying operations on the carrier have commenced," said the vice admiral.

He also underlined the need to induct more aircraft carriers into the naval fleet.

"Shore-based aircraft cannot be sufficient to meet the needs though they may have the capacity to stay in air for a longer time. Having an aircraft carrier in the naval fleet is the philosophy that is going to stay in foreseeable future," the vice admiral said.

Last year, the Ministry of Defence had decided to put on hold the Navy's plan to build the second aircraft carrier due to its high cost.

A committee set up by the ministry in 2016 had recommended investments in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for developing longer runways for fighter aircraft instead of a carrier.

Meanwhile, commenting on the need for amphibious assault ships, also known as Landing Platform Docks (LPDs), the vice admiral said, "Four LPDs are to be acquired by our government. Two companies are in the fray currently but ships will be built in India. The project cost is estimated to be around Rs 20,000 crore".

When asked about the kind of information related to supersonic missile Brahmos that was allegedly leaked by an engineer in October this year, the vice admiral said, "I had not gone into details of the type of information related to Brahmos missiles that was reportedly got leaked. I do not have adequate details to tell you whether any information was compromised or not".

Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squads (ATS) had arrested the BrahMos Aerospace unit engineer Nishant Agrawal from Nagpur in Maharashtra for allegedly leaking the "technical information" to Pakistan.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The player auction ahead of the 2019 Indian Premier League will be held in Jaipur on December 18, the BCCI announced on Monday.

The auction will be a one-day affair and there is also a change in venue with the event moving to the Pink City from Bengaluru.

Only 70 players -- 50 Indians and 20 overseas -- will be up grabs with eight teams left with a total purse of Rs 145.25 crore.

Ahead of the auction, teams announced their retentions last month, while releasing a few big names.

Yuvraj Singh was released by KXIP while Delhi Daredevils let go of Gautam Gambhir.

Rajasthan Royals released Jaydev Unadkat after paying a whopping Rs 11.5 crore for his services at the auction held ahead of the 2018 edition.

Sunrisers Hyderabad dumped injured Wriddhiman Saha along with West Indies T20 captain Carlos Brathwaite.

Mumbai Indians released some top international stars like JP Duminy and fast bowling duo of Pat Cummins and Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh.

The 2019 edition may be held outside India, partially or completely, if it clashes with the general elections.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The West Singhbhum district administration ordered a probe into the alleged selling of two minor girls by their parents three years ago after the incident came to light on Monday.

The incident allegedly happened at Toranghatu village in Jagannathpur sub-division of the district.

A section of the media Monday reported that a poverty striken tribal couple had sold off their two daughters, both minors, for Rs 1,500 each to a brick kiln owner of Howrah in West Bengal.

"Though it is a three-year-old case, the incident came to our notice after a section of the media reported it on Monday," an official of the district administration said.

The block development officer (BDO) concerned and the police have been sent to probe the incident and submit a report soon, the Sub-Divisional Officer of Jagannathpur, Smrita Kumari, said.

"I have also asked the Child Welfare Committee to probe the incident to find out the truth," she said, adding necessary action will be taken against the culprits on the basis of the findings.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)/ -- - JK Laksmipat University has announced admissions for the fresh batch of Pinnacle MBA 2019.

- The Pinnacle MBA programme has been designed in consultation with Industry with a good blend of academics, industry exposure and personal mentoring by industry professionals.

- The founding batch of Pinnacle MBA has set new benchmarks in learning-by-doing

JK Lakshmipat University has announced admissions open for Pinnacle MBA for the year 2019. Pinnacle MBA is a 2-year full-time, residential, post-graduate degree programme, recognized by UGC, Government of India. The Programme provides an opportunity for students to experience industry in their classroom making them job ready once they complete the program.

(Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/654758/JK_Lakshmipat_University_Logo.jpg )



(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/792573/JKLU_Pinnacle_MBA.jpg )



The University exposes its students to a rigorous industry-oriented curriculum designed by industry stalwarts. With the guidance of industry leaders, learn-by-doing approach in pedagogy and mentorship by highly qualified practitioners, it instils the students with 360 experiential learning to undertake the challenges of the professional environment. Students are encouraged to go beyond books and get accepted by the global corporate fraternity, transforming them into leaders of tomorrow. At JKLU, they don't just teach - they bring industry into the classroom. It has a good blend of Management Studies, Personal Growth and Liberal Arts and sciences into its curriculum.

The University believes that every individual should be given the opportunity to develop personally as well as professionally, in domain of their choice. The programme also offers optional certification from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, USA. The programme stands outs from the conventional with a pedagogy that focuses on experiential learning, focused mentorship, multidisciplinary learning, and personal leadership.

The ongoing batch of the Pinnacle MBA finds the experience to be one of the most educating and refreshing experiences of their lifetime. While the students get to work hands-on with the experts from the industry, they also get opportunity to work and explore potential in various fields of their interest. "We are always engaged in different types of activities and each activity gives us a lesson to learn and apply in future. We also get chances to explore ourselves as much as we can," says Vishal Dutt, a student of the ongoing batch of Pinnacle MBA.

The country today needs a new generation of professionals who can efficiently play a key role in moving the development forward, and JKLU is ideally placed to do this. JKLU aims to create future ready professionals, and not just job-ready graduates. Hence, it has not only reimagined the management sphere, but has also reinvented it to suit the needs of the changing trends of the industry.

Elgibility and Admissions process



Graduates and students appearing for final year with minimum 50% marks may apply. Additionally, they must have appeared in CAT/MAT/ATMA/XAT/CMAT or any other national level entrance test. Else, they will have to appear in the JLKU Management Entrance (MET) to qualify for the programme. Further details are available on the University's website: http://www.jklu.edu.in.

About JKLU



Established in 2011, JK Lakshmipat University (JKLU), located in historic city of Jaipur, is part of well-known and widely respected JK group. JKLU's philosophy is grounded in making students ready for not just a job but for their life. It aspires to be India's most innovative higher educational institution focused on a new-age experiential project-based pedagogy. In 2019, the University shall be offering cutting-edge UG programmes in B Tech, B Design, BBA and PG programmes in M Tech, Pinnacle MBA, and PhD.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Tata Motors-owned Monday launched a special edition of its Jaguar XJ model for Rs 1.11 crore in India to commemorate 50 years of the company's flagship luxury saloon.

The special edition, XJ50 will be available in long wheelbase with 3-litre diesel engine option, the company said in a statement.

Commenting on the launch, India President and Managing Director Rohit Suri said, "The Jaguar XJ has always been the epitome of Jaguar's focus on luxury and excellence. With the XJ50, we have raised the bar once again, paying homage to one of the world's most stylish sporting saloons."





Among other features, the anniversary edition will have unique intaglio branding and XJ50-badged illuminated treadplates, alongside anodised gearshift paddles and bright metal pedals.The journalist who leads a site that has battled Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte turned herself in on Monday to face what she termed a "manufactured" tax fraud case that carries the threat of a decade behind bars.

A day after Rappler CEO Maria Ressa flew home to the Philippines under the threat of an arrest warrant, she surrendered at a Manila court and was allowed to remain free after paying a cash bail.

Rappler has been hit by a string of government efforts to shut it down since the site took a critical tone on Duterte, in particular his internationally condemned drug war that has killed thousands.

Ressa now faces the prospect of a trial in an overburdened court system that is notoriously susceptible to influence from powerful elites. "They (the charges) are politically motivated and... they are manufactured," she told journalists outside court.

If found guilty of the charge that Rappler provided false information to tax authorities, she risks up to 10 years behind bars.

She posted a bail equivalent of USD 1,100 (970 euros). Campaigners condemned the charge, which is one of several tax fraud cases the government filed against Rappler and Ressa last week while she was out of the country to attend a series of prominent journalism events.

The charges are "part of the Duterte administration's campaign to harass, threaten and intimidate critics," said Human Rights Watch Philippines researcher Carlos Conde.

"The attacks on Rappler are consistent with the way the Duterte administration has treated other 'drug war' critics," he said.

Duterte bristles at attacks on his signature campaign to rid the nation of drugs, which police say has killed nearly 5,000 alleged dealers and users who resisted arrest.

Some of the crackdown's highest profile critics have wound up behind bars, including Senator Leila de Lima, who was jailed on drug charges she insists were fabricated to silence her.

The government accuses Rappler Holdings Corp, Ressa and the site's accountant of failing to pay taxes on 2015 bond sales that it alleges netted gains of 162.5 million pesos (USD 3 million).

The bonds, called Philippine Depositary Receipts, are at the heart of a case that led the Philippines' corporate watchdog to void the site's corporate license in January.

Duterte has attacked other media outfits that criticise him, including top newspaper, The Philippine Daily Inquirer and major broadcaster ABS-CBN, threatening to also go after their owners over alleged unpaid taxes.

The government said the charges against Ressa were the consequence of wrongdoing, not retribution.

"You violate tax laws, then you will be prosecuted," Duterte's spokesman Salvador Panelo told reporters. When Ressa returned to the Philippines Sunday night she told a crowd of TV cameras at the airport that she would keep fighting.

"I am going to hold my government accountable for publicly calling me a criminal.

I am not a criminal," she said. "I have been a journalist my entire life. I will continue to hold the government accountable," she added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The U.S. State Department has approved the sale to Morocco of 162 enhanced Abrams tanks for an estimated cost of $1.259 billion, says the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

This military sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security and capacity of a major Non-NATO Ally, stresses the DSCA in a press release.

The deal includes support equipment, spares and training. It will contribute to the modernization of Moroccos tank fleet, enhancing its ability to meet current and future threats.

These tanks will contribute to Moroccos goal of updating its military capability while further enhancing interoperability with the United States and other allies, says the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

Moroccos tank inventory is estimated to includes some 48 T-72s, 320 M60s (including 120 M60A3TTS), 184 M-48A5s (in storage) and 116 Austrian SK-105 Kurassier light tanks

According to US Excess Defense database, Morocco received in 2016 vast quantities of excess hardware, including 57 000 M16 assault rifles, 3 700 M240 machineguns, 50 Mk 19 40 mm grenade launchers, 1 828 .50 caliber M2 machineguns, 908 7.62 mm rifles, 17 000 M203 grenade launchers, 4 500 M60 machineguns and 7 000 M249 machineguns.

Vehicle deliveries for 2016 included 400 M113 armored personnel carriers, 100 M915 trucks, 110 M916 trucks as well as dozens of cargo trailers, fuel carriers, recovery and other vehicles.A former Chief Justice of India on Monday said it is for Justice Kurian Joseph to come out with the basis on which he has levelled serious allegations against former Chief Justice of India that he was being "remote controlled" by some external source.

His views was shared by former solicitor general Mohan Parasaran who, while terming the allegations of Justice Joseph as serious, said the retired judge should also come out with the basis on which he had made such statements after his retirement.

Joseph, who retired on November 29, on Monday dropped a bombshell claiming that Justice Misra was "remote-controlled by an external source" and that impacted the administration of justice.

Reacting to the explosive accusation, a former CJI on condition of anonymity said, "I would not like to comment and it would also be not appropriate for me to comment. Ask the person who had made those comments and against whom the comments were made".

He added that statements have been made against an individual and he could be the best person to give his point of view.

Parasaran said the views of Justice Joseph were personal as he was inside the and therefore, it is very difficult for outsiders like us to comment on the issue.

"He has to come out with evidence. I am not concerned about x,y or z. I am concerned about the institution. I have great respect for Justice Joseph. As the thing is over, the Chief Justice knows what to do, he is a disciplinarian and will take a corrective action," Parasaran said.

On being asked if there should be an enquiry on the allegations of Justice Kurian, he said who is going to conduct the enquiry as it is an institutional thing.

"It is a case of washing dirty linen in the public. Who is going to do that," he said.

The former CJI said the statements made by the individual do not mean that entire institution has crumbled.

"It is not like entire institution has come under clout. This institution had very eminent and independent judges who had stood up to any pressure. Those judges would never cow down to any kind of pressure to anybody. I have faith in this institution," he said.

"When it comes to testing times, judges stand up or withstand the pressure. Its not like that. There may be some aberrations within the system but saying like entire system has collapsed or crumbled is not correct", he said.

When asked whether the episode has brought disrepute to the judiciary, the former CJI said, "It has nothing to do with the institution. He (Justice Kurian Joseph) is not telling that institution has crumbled".

He said that Justice Joseph talked about one individual (former CJI Dipak Misra) and the appropriate comment can be given by the concerned individual only.

"It is Justice Kurian, the other three judges or ex-CJI Misra, who can educate the people in the country as what exactly happened and what were the implications. I would not like to comment on this issue," he said.

The ex-CJI said that he has not said anything nor he will like to say anything on the issue.

"Now the debate is going on. Let it happen. One day or other the things come out in the open", he said and added that it was for Justice Joseph to tell about who was the remote control or to whom he was referring to.

"You should ask him about which remote control he is talking about. It's journalists work to cross examine anybody", he said.

"Listen, I don't want to get into this thing. I just want to keep away from this controversy. I have turned my back. I am happy in my own little world," he added.

On the question that as a former Chief Justice of India has he ever heard of any such remote control thing.

"I can't say anything. No one remote controlled me nor anyone dared to remote control me. I cannot comment anything on others being remote controlled or controlled for whatever reasons", he said, adding, "If anyone was being remote controlled, he is accountable to himself".

On the question that under his tenure, did he ever hear of such influence being exercised, the former CJI said, "It's not about my tenure. Nobody said that it was under my tenure. He referred to Justice Misra's time, You cannot dig the history from 1948 and say it did not happen under so and so tenure. He has pointed out to justice Misra. You should ask him. If he will talk about my tenure, then I will give statement on this".

The former solicitor general said that Justice Jospeh was "part and parcel" of the institution and it was not clear what he meant by "remote control".

"He will come out more clearly as to what are external sources he was taking about and that would be beneficial for the institution" the senior lawyer said.

Terming it as very serious charge, the senior lawyer said that nothing of this sort was heard previously.Confident of ousting the government in Telangana, the party's state chief Uttam Kumar Reddy has said Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao's arrogance would be the single-biggest reason for his party's rout in the assembly polls.

Asserting that the opposition alliance 'Praja Kutami' will make a clean sweep in the December 7 polls, Reddy claimed the ruling (Telangana Rashtra Samithi) will be contained to just 35 seats in the 119-member state assembly.

In the last assembly elections in 2014, the had won 63 seats but its tally had risen further to close to 90 before the assembly was dissolved by the chief minister to advance the polls, which would have otherwise happened next year along with the Lok Sabha elections.

The TRS leaders are claiming they will get at least 100 seats this time.

Reddy, who is credited to bringing the opposition alliance together, however said KCR's strategy to advance poll was a "miscalculation" and he could not see the resentment among people against his "misgovernance and autocratic rule".

"The TRS will be decimated. We will defeat KCR decisively. People are waiting to teach it a lesson for using the Telangana struggle for the personal gains. I foresee the KCR's party will be contained at under 35 seats," Reddy told PTI in an interview while campaigning in his home constituency Huzarnagar in Nalgonda district.



Read our full coverage of Telangana Assembly Election 2018

Reddy, who is being seen by some as a chief ministerial candidate of the opposition alliance on account of being the state president and a four-time MLA, refused to comment on post-poll scenario saying it would be decided by the chief in consultation with the elected legislators of the party.

He said he is confident of the Congress victory because the party has worked meticulously from distribution of tickets to forging a workable alliance comprising Telugu Desam Party, Telangana Praja Samithi and CPI.

"KCR dissolved the assembly to be back in power. It was his miscalculation. The moment this happened, I was sure we will be back in power. Our party worked meticulously in the last four years to build the organisation. In last two months, we worked meticulously in bringing together our alliance. Our ticket allotment was much better than ever before. I think we are well set for a landslide win," Reddy said.

The state Congress chief, who was an Indian Air Force pilot, said the 'Praja Kutami' alliance is unlikely to get anything less than 85 seats, while Congress alone will get 75-77 seats.

The Congress had won only 22 seats in the 2014 elections while its tally had gone further down by the time the assembly was dissolved.

Reddy claimed the Congress will sweep south Telangana, especially Mehbubnagar, Nalgonda, Khammam and Rangareddy districts.

Congress has not yet made its assessment about Hyderabad, while it will get 60 per cent seats in north Telangana, where the party was wiped out in 2014, he said.

Asked what he feels would go against KCR in this election, Reddy said, "He has been very arrogant, dictatorial and inaccessible chief minister. He has been inhuman at times and also contemptuous and does not allow anyone to speak in the assembly."



Alleging that KCR has been "consistent about inconsistencies", Reddy said the TRS chief never did what he said and never said what he did.

"People have seen through his game. The separate Telangana cause was a mask for him and his family. He was a power hungry person and has been the most corrupt chief minister since independence India," he alleged.

While the Congress and other opposition leaders have been making similar allegations, the ruling party has been denying all these charges.

Reddy claimed the state had a surplus budget and a high per capita income when KCR took charge, but he never utilised the resources properly for the betterment of the people.

"Instead, the state became poorer and pathetic. His family became among the richest political families in the country," he alleged.

"There is an old proverb that you can fool all people for some time, some people for all time. But people of Telangana have seen through his game," he said, alleging that KCR has failed to deliver his 2014 poll promise and instead focused on "looting" the state.Reacting to a charge sheet filed by the CBI against Delhi minister Satyendar Jain in a disproportionate-assets case, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said Monday residents of unauthorised colonies would give a reply to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the future polls.

Kejriwal reiterated the charge that the case was registered against Jain for making a scheme for regularisation of unauthorised colonies in Delhi.

"This case was registered against Satyendar Jain by Modi ji, for the offence of making scheme to regularise unauthorised colonies in Delhi. Residents of these colonies will give a reply to Modi ji this time," he tweeted in Hindi.

The CBI has filed a charge sheet against the Delhi health minister, his wife and a few others in a disproportionate-assets case, officials said Monday.

The move comes days after the Ministry of Home Affairs granted CBI the sanction to prosecute Jain in a case registered by the central probe agency in August last year for allegedly acquiring assets disproportionate to his known sources of income.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday sought a CBI probe into the mysterious death of Dalit youth inside a police chowki in Jhajjar town of Haryana last week.

Kejriwal visited the family of the deceased, Rajesh Kumar, in Jhajjar and accused the authorities of trying to hush up the case.

Describing the 22-year-old's death as a "cold-blooded" murder, Kejriwal said, "I met his (Kumar's) mother. She told me that the police had picked him up as a witness in some case. He was not at fault, there was no FIR against him. In the police station, in a way, he has been murdered and now they are trying to hush up the matter by saying it was a case of suicide,"



Police maintain that Kumar had committed suicide by hanging himself in the police chowki in Jhajjar.

"How can anyone hang himself inside a police station? We demand that this case be handed over to the CBI and those police personnel, who are behind this, they should be given exemplary punishment," Kejriwal, who was accompanied by AAP's Haryana unit chief, Naveen Jaihind, and a ministerial colleague, told reporters in Jhajjar.

"They (the culprits) should be hanged, they should be given strict punishment so that no one in future dares to commit such a thing with a poor person," the Aam Aadmi Party chief said.

He also alleged that many incidents against Dalits had been reported in Haryana and they should be given security."My demand from (Chief Minister Manohar Lal) Khattar sahab is that Dalits be given security, especially this family. This family should also be given adequate compensation, a job should also be given to one member and they should be given justice."



Kumar's mother was inconsolable and told Kejriwal that her son, who used to ply an e-rickshaw, was the only one who earns in the family. "I have four children, three daughters and he was my only son," she said.

Earlier, Congress leader Geeta Bhukkal and Hisar MP Dushyant Chautala had also visited the family and demanded an independent probe into the case and compensation for the family from the state government.

According to the police on Monday, Kumar had picked up a wire inside the police chowki and hanged himself.

As per law, as the incident had taken place inside a police chowki, an inquiry by a judicial magistrate was already being held, a senior police official said.

"A post-mortem was done, whose report confirms death by hanging. There is no other injury mark on the body," Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shashank Kumar said.

According to the ASP, the youth had been brought to the chowki by some individual, who lodged a complaint stating that he be questioned in connection with his grandson going missing.

When Rajesh was inside the chowki, some policemen who were on duty at that time had gone to clear a traffic congestion in the area, the officer said.

As only a couple of police personnel were inside the station, they failed to notice Rajesh taking the step, the officer added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Leader of the Opposition Ramesh Chennithala were Monday involved in a war of words in the state assembly over the Sabarimala Temple issue, leading to disruption of House proceedings for the fourth day.

Three UDF MLAs also began an indefinite 'Satyagraha' at the entrance of the House on the issue.

As the war of words continued and Congress-led Opposition UDF MLAs began shouting slogans, the House was adjourned for the fourth day by Speaker P Sreeramakrishann.

Unlike previous days, the House even saw CPI(M)-led LDF members standing up from their seats and locking horns with opposition members, prompting the Speaker to warn both sides.

As soon as the Question Hour began, Chennithala informed the Speaker that the opposition was ready to cooperate in conducting House proceedings.

He said three MLAs-V S Sivakumar (Congress), Parakkal Abdullah (IUML) and N Jayaraj (KC-M)-will observe an indefinite 'Satyagraha' at the portals of the Assembly as the government had not withdrawn prohibitory orders at Sabarimala and also demanding more facilities for pilgrims.

The chief minister said he had thought the opposition would make such an announcement earlier itself in the light of the BJP having decided to shift its agitation in front of the Secretariat from Monday.

"This is a collusion between the Congress and BJP-RSS and a belated awakening," Vijayan said.

While the BJP was agitating in front of the secretariat, the Congress-led UDF MLAs were observing a 'Satyagraha' at the Assembly, he said.

Taking a dig at the UDF, Vijayan even said they were following the stand taken by BJP chief Amit Shah rather than that of their leader Rahul Gandhi on the Sabarimala issue.

Hitting back at Vijayan, Chennithala said the opposition does not need the chief minister's permission to decide when to launch their agitation.

He alleged RSS leader Valsan Thillankeri had been "given charge of the home department" at Sabarimala to control the frenzied devotees last month when a 52-year-old woman was attacked at the hill shrine.

The leader also alleged an RSS outfit had been given charge of "Annadanam", the free meal scheme at Sabarimala and C P Sugathan, who had protested against entry of young women, had been made joint convener of the 'Women's Wall', planned by the LDF government on January 1.

Stung by the chief minister's allegations, opposition members trooped to the well of the House and placed a black banner in front of the Speaker's dais blocking his vision.

As they did not heed to the Speaker's repeated requests to go back to their seats and continued to raise slogans against the chief minister, some angry members of the treasury bench even attempted to move to the well of the House but were dissuaded from doing so by the other ruling Front members.

An angry Speaker hurriedly scrapped the submission and calling attention motions, took up other businesses and adjourned the House for the day within 21 minutes.

Opposition members later moved out of the assembly hall raising slogans.

The three MLAs later began the indefinite 'Satyagraha' at the portals of the assembly demanding the withdrawal of prohibitory orders and other restrictions imposed by the police in and around the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala.

Chennithala later told reporters the chief minister had allegedly passed on a chit to the Speaker asking him to stop the House proceedings to prevent the opposition from raising nepotism charges against local administration minister K T Jaleel.

The hill shrine of Lord Ayyappa has been witnessing protests by devotees and right-wing activists against the CPI(M)-led LDF government's decision to implement the Supreme Court's September 28 verdict permitting women of all age groups to offer prayers at the temple.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan Monday dismissed the BJP's charge that its state general secretary K Surendran, who was en route to Sabarimala last month, was put behind bars in false cases.

Surendran, along with two others, was arrested on November 18 from the Nilackal base camp at Sabarimala as he attempted to proceed to the Ayyappa temple, despite being advised by the police against it due to law-and-order issues.

The chief minister, replying to a submission of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA O Rajagopal on Surendran's arrest, said there were 15 cases against the BJP leader, including for unlawful assembly, destroying public property and violating prohibitory orders.

Of these, eight cases were registered before 2016, three were in the investigation stage and the other cases in the trial stage in different courts, Vijayan said in his reply tabled in the state Assembly.

During the "Chitira Attatirunal", a special puja held at the Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala last month, prohibitory orders were in force and a 52-year-old woman, who had come for her grandchild's "chorrunnu" (rice-feeding ceremony), was illegally blocked, assaulted and insulted by frenzied devotees under the leadership of Surendran at Nadapandal, suspecting that she was in the 10-50 age group.

A relative of a woman was also assaulted and a case was lodged by the police at the "sannidhanam" (temple complex), the chief minister said, adding that Surendran was the 13th accused in the case.

Since the September 28 verdict of the Supreme Court, allowing women of all ages to enter the temple, no woman in the 10-50 age group has been able to reach the shrine due to frenzied protests by the devotees.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Union minister Upendra Kushwaha on Monday questioned Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's "Nalanda model" of through which he said the Bihar government has recruited teachers a majority of whom cannot even properly count from 1 to 100.

Kushwaha, the Union minister of state for HRD, also announced that he would sit on fast on December 8 and 9 to press for allotment of land by the state government to open two Kendriya Vidyalayas in Devkund in Aurangabad district and Nawada.

He said he would sit on fast on December 8 in Devkund and the next day in Nawada.

Kushwaha, the president of Rashtriya Lok Samata Party, an NDA ally, has now picked the issue of to attack Kumar with whom he has been at loggerheads over sharing of seats in Bihar among National Democratic Alliance partners for 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

RLSP is holding a two-day brainstorming session in Valmikinagar in West Champaran district from Tuesday over the prevailing political situation in the state.

This would be followed by a public meeting in East Champaran district on December 6 in which Kushwaha said he would make a "big announcement".

He criticised the JD(U), questioning Kumar's governance in the field of

Kushwaha also slammed JD(U)'s attempt to contrast Bihar's development in education sector on Sunday claiming the state had witnessed two models Lalu Prasad's "Charvaha (shepherd) Vidyalaya model and Kumar's "Nalanda model". Nalanda is the home district of Kumar.

"People of the state wants to know from the ruling JD(U) and the state government as what is the 'Nalanda model'? Is it the same model which has recruited majority of teachers who even cannot properly count from 1 to 100," Kushwaha quipped.

"Is it the same model in which teachers are compelled to move around from block headquarters to the apex court for getting their salary? Is it the same model which has turned 'vidyalaya' into 'bhojnalaya'? Is it the same model in which students scoring zero out of 100 are declared toppers?" he said.

He said, "If this is the Nalanda model, it must be demolished in the interest of poor students of the state."



Out of the 200 Kendriya Vidyalayas approved across the country, Bihar government sent only two proposals for Aurangabad and Nawada, he said, adding that the Centre approved both proposals but the state government did not provide land.

"The state government could not even fulfil the formalities of transferring land for opening KVs in two districts of Bihar and is now levelling allegations against me. In the interest of the people of the state, I, as a minister, will sit on a day-long fast on December 8 in Devkund in Aurangabad and again in Nawada to pressure the state government for allotment of land for the two KVs," he said.

The RLSP chief said he would not make seat-sharing an issue if the Bihar government fulfils his 25-point charter of demands to improve education scenario in the state.

He did not speak on the BJP apparently giving a cold shoulder to his ultimatum to finalise seat-sharing by November 30.

The charter of demands includes appointment of school teachers through the Bihar Public Service Commission, re-evaluation of teaching staff appointed since 2003, exempting teachers from non-teaching work, making 75 per cent attendance mandatory, modernisation of madrasas and holding students union elections on time.

Stating that he would take "sanyas" (retirement) from politics if he is proved wrong on the issue of education, Kushwaha dared Kumar for a public debate on the issue.

The Union minister has raised a banner of revolt after BJP and JD(U) announced they would contest equal number of seats out of the total 40 seats in Bihar. They did not give any figures.

However, Kushwaha recently revealed that the BJP had offered him two seats, an offer he said his party rejected and demanded a "respectable" number of seats instead.

In 2014, the RLSP had won all three seats it had contested.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Enforcement Directorate has attached a plot of land in Panchkula allotted to the Associated Journals Limited (AJL) by the Haryana government in 2005, the agency said on Monday.

It has done saw under the anti-money laundering law, the agency said.

The AJL is reportedly controlled by senior Congress leaders, including members of the Gandhi family. The group runs the National Herald newspaper.

A provisional attachment order was issued on December 1, the day CBI filed a charge sheet against former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and others for allegedly using fraudulent means to allot land to AJL, the agency said in a statement.

"... Since, the value of plot fraudulently alloted to AJL has represented proceeds of crime, the ED has attached plot under PMLA act," the statement said.

The plot has been attached under Section 5 of PMLA (Attachment of property involved in money-laundering) and further investigation is in process, officials said.

The CBI charge sheet named Congress leader Motilal Vora besides Hooda in connection with the alleged irregularities in the re-allotment of an institutional plot in Panchkula, Haryana, to the AJL.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Draped in a US flag, a casket carrying the body of former president George H W Bush on Monday was flown to Washington from here for the final time in Air Force One aircraft, which has been redesignated as 'Special Air Mission 41' in a "special tribute" to the American leader.

Bush, the 41st president of the US who led America during the dramatic collapse of the Soviet Union and engineered the defeat of an audacious Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, died in Houston on Friday at the age of 94.

The casket will be flown back to Houston -- where the former head of state will lie in repose at St Martin's Episcopal Church until Thursday's funeral -- after commemoration of a state funeral service at the Washington National Cathedral on Wednesday.

Hundreds of people gathered Monday at the Ellington Air Force Base to witness the body of their beloved leader being carried to the aircraft.

The presidential anthem of the US, "Hail to the Chief", was played and cannons sounded as Bush's casket was removed from the hearse. The Bush family, with hands over their hearts, looked on as the flag-draped casket was loaded onto the presidential plane and the band played "Eternal Father, Strong to Save".

Members of the Bush family -- including son George W Bush, the nation's 43rd president, and former first lady Laura Bush -- boarded Air Force One just before the plane flew to Washington. The late president's service dog, Sully, also boarded the airplane.

President Donald Trump, who has announced a national day of mourning on Wednesday, said on Saturday that the Air Force One will bring the casket of Bush to Washington, describing it as "a special tribute that the former president deserves very much".

By tradition, the aircraft is called Air Force One when the president is on board. Since Trump is not travelling on the aircraft, the plane has been redesignated as "Special Air Mission 41" to honour Bush.

Bush's remains will lie in state in the US Capitol Rotunda till Wednesday, when he will be honoured with state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral.

"Looking forward to being with the Bush Family to pay my respects to President George H.W. Bush," Trump tweeted Monday.

Former presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter will also attend the state funeral.

Bush, who was also a World War II Navy pilot, will be laid to rest wearing socks adorned with an image of squadron of planes, his spokesman Jim McGrath said Monday.

Tweeting a picture of Bush wearing grey socks adorned with images of jets flying in formation, McGrath wrote, "The 41st President will be carried to his final rest wearing socks that pay tribute to his lifetime of service, starting as an 18-year-old naval aviator in war. That legacy is now being carried, in part, by the brave, selfless men and women aboard @CVN77_GHWB."



The former president flew more than 50 combat missions in World War II, and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Earlier, McGrath also shared a photo of Bush's service dog Sully, lying in front of the president's casket, in social media. The photo quickly went viral.

On Thursday, the president's casket will be taken by train to College Station, Texas, accompanied by the Bush family members and close friends. A funeral procession will then travel on George Bush Drive toward the Bush Library complex.

According to sources in the White House, President Trump and first lady Melania would attend the funeral service in Houston. Former presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and Jimmy Carter are also likely to attend the event.

The state funeral for the former president, whose death sparked tributes from around the world and across the political aisle, will be the first presidential funeral since Gerald Ford died in 2006.

Bush will be buried in Texas next to his wife, Barbara, and their daughter, Robin, who died in 1953.

President Bush was suffering from Parkinson's disease that forced him to use a wheelchair in recent years, and he had been in and out of hospitals in recent months as his health declined.

The decorated war pilot and former CIA chief was elected president on November 8, 1988. He was sworn in on January 20, 1989, and served until January 20, 1993.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Green activists in the city Monday recalled the 1984 Bhopal Gas Tragedy and warned that the administration and the public had not learnt lessons as reflected in their callous attitude.

The activists, in particular, slammed the government agencies for allegedly neglecting security concerns and failing to regularly monitor industrial installations.

"From kitchens at home to industries or construction sites, carelessness was widely visible, often leading to avoidable disasters," said activist Mohan Singh.

River Connect Campaign member Devashish Bhattacharya said "the callous neglect of rules and standards, had become part of our national character."



"Fires, blasts, leakages have become so common these days," lamented activists Dev Kushwaha and Rishabh Agarwal.

Toxic gas which leaked from Union Carbide's pesticide factory in Bhopal on the intervening night of December 2-3, 1984 killed over 3,000 people and maimed thousands of others.

The activists advocated that children be taught to follow rules and stay alert.

"Children should be taught early to follow rules and be alert all the time to even minor lapses. Even our kitchens and bathrooms are not safe," activist Akanksha Agarwal said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The former Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and ambassador to Tunisia, Latifa Akharbach, has been appointed by King Mohammed VI as head of the High Authority for Audiovisual Communication (HACA), in replacement of Amina Lamrini El Ouahabi.

Latifa Akharbach, who is also former director of the Institute of Information and Communication (ISIC), was appointed by King Mohammed VI President of the HACA at a ceremony held at the Royal Palace of Rabat this Monday December 3.

The Sovereign also appointed Benaissa Asloun as Director General of the Institution, in replacement of Jamal Eddine Ennaji.

During the ceremony, the Sovereign named Narjiss Reghaye, Jaafar Kansoussi, Ali Bakkali Hassani and Abdelkader Chaoui, as new members of the Higher Council of Audiovisual Communication (CSCA) and this, in application of the provisions of the law reorganizing the HACA, said the Royal Office in a statement.

The king also received Fatima Baroudi, Khalili El Alami Idrissi, Badia Radi and Mohamed El Maazouz who were appointed to the CSCA by the Head of the Government and the speakers of the two houses of the Parliament.

The renewal of the HACAs structures comes after it was promoted as an independent constitutional institution responsible for regulating the national audiovisual sector.

The renewal also reflects the Kings concern to see this Institution fulfil its missions, particularly those concerning the guarantee of the freedom of audiovisual communication, freedom of expression and protection of this freedom of expression, the Royal office statement said.

These missions also include guaranteeing citizens right to information and to the media to give them access to a diversified, pluralist and balanced audiovisual landscape, within the framework of respect for the political, cultural and linguistic pluralism, and the various sheds of opinion and thought in the country.

The HACA likewise sees to the respect of the law, the professionalism and the ethics of the profession, the statement said.

The HACA was established in 2003 to assist in protecting the rights and freedoms recognized in the Constitution, in particular the right to

information, which is necessary for the free communication of thoughts and opinions.Blaming the previous Congress rules for bank defaults, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday alleged the defaulters used to carry the party's name as "taveej" (amulet) as a shield but his government has acted strongly against such people and even "big crorepatis" have been forced to pay up.

Modi alleged that banks were "looted" by "naamdaar" who used to make telephone calls to the lenders to sanction loans.

Addressing an election rally here, he said those shedding "crocodile tears" for farmers should come to Rajasthan "to see" whether lands of farmers were purchased at a throw away price or not by people allegedly close to the Congress party in Delhi.

"Had the farmers known about the future and potential of solar power park, would they have sold their lands," the prime minister said.

Talking about the 'amulet', Modi said it saved people who looted government money.

"Main aapko samjhana chahta hun. Unhone Congress ke naam ka taveej bana rakha tha. Jo log galat kaam karte hai, bura kaam karte hai, sarkaari khajaane se lootte hai, bankon se paise maar lete hai, unkon kuch karne ki jarurat nahin thi. Congress ka taveej bandhon to unkon ek raksha kawach mil jaata tha," he said.

When translated into english, the statement meant, "I want to make you (people) understand. They had made an 'amulet' in the name of Congress, which saved the people doing wrong deeds, looted government funds, take huge bank loans. They had to do nothing but to tie Congress amulet which acted as a shield."



The prime minister said the credit given to people by banks between 2006 and 2014, when Congress was in power at the Centre, was more than the money given to people since Independence.

"Telephone karke bankon ko loota gaya. Naamdaar ke phone jaate the aur bank se paise diye jaate the. (Banks were looted by making phone calls. Banks used to lend money after calls from 'naamdaar'," Modi said.

The prime minister said the BJP government, which came to power in 2014, enacted a law to recover money from defaulters. He said his government made stringent laws such as the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, under which Rs 3 lakh crore were recovered from loan defaulters.

"We brought big crorepatis on roads and recovered money," he said.

The opposition parties have been accusing the government of being soft on big corporates and of doing nothing to recover unpaid loans.

Modi also targeted the Congress for allegedly spreading lies.

"Those travelling with a rose on their shirt had knowledge about parks but not farming. Those who are not able to differentiate between mustard and sesame are giving lessons. Had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the first prime minister,farmers of the country would not have faced misery," Modi said.

He also talked about the Swaminathan Commission, saying the final volume of its report came in 2007 but UPA government did not act on its recommendations on the Minimum Support Price to farmers.

Citing contribution of the Bishnoi community, he said members of the community laid their lives to protect the environment and India received the accolade of 'Champions of Earth' due to their efforts.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Residents of Maharashtra can now inspect government records in district-level offices and local bodies under the Right to Information (RTI) Act for two hours every Monday.

A government resolution (GR) to this effect was issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) last week.

The move is aimed at increasing transparency and to cut down the number of RTI applications and appeals in the government offices.

The GR would not be applicable to Mantralaya, the state secretariat.

"This provision to allow inspection of records will not only ensure transparency, but it will also reduce the number of first and second appeals filed under the Right to Information (RTI) Act," stated the GR dated November 26.

It referred to a similar initiative launched earlier by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).

"Residents can inspect government records in district level offices and local bodies such as municipal corporations and councils between 3 pm to 5 pm every Monday. In case of a public holiday on Monday, the inspection will be allowed on the next working day," it stated.

RTI activists have welcomed this initiative of the government.

"Citizens must use this facility extensively and consistently to ensure its implementation," former chief information commissioner (CIC) Shailesh Gandhi said Monday.

Mumbai-based activist Anil Galgali said they were awaiting such a move.

"Success of this much-awaited initiative depends on its smooth implementation by the state," he said.

Another activist Manoranjan Roy said the order should have applied to all departments of the government.

"Leaving out higher offices like the state secretariat would hardly serve its purpose," he argued.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The South Delhi Municipal Corporation has collected Rs 3.5 lakh as penalties from seven construction companies for "violation" of air pollution control norms in the first three days of December, the civic body said Monday.

Each company has been slapped with a fine of Rs 50,000, the SDMC said in a statement.

"SDMC has taken massive action during first three days of December against seven construction companies involved in generating air pollution and deteriorating pollution level in the city. Each company has been fined with an amount of Rs. 50,000 resulting in recovery of Rs. 3.5 lakh," the statement said.

The companies are NBCC, Shapoorji Pallonji Group, ITPO, L&T Construction Transportation and Infrastructure at Bhairo Road, SJ Kumar for DMRC Sarai Kale Khan, DMRC Okhla, and Spencer ISP Network, Okhla, it said.

The building department of SDMC has said that the action will continue.

Municipal Commissioner Puneet Kumar Goel on Sunday issued directions to the zonal deputy commissioners and other officials to issue challan under the National Green Tribunal rules to discourage people from littering garbage in the city, the SDMC said.

"The DEMS department has been asked to concentrate on social functions like 'bhandaras' (community meals) inside and outside religious places, marriages and birthday parties and other events. The strict instructions issued against spreading wastes of such kind i.e. used plates, paper containers, plastic cups etc. will not be tolerated at all," he was quoted as saying.

On Sunday night, the zonal teams took action against burning of leaves and garbage, littering of streets with used plates, plastic cups, etc, and they issued 180 challans, the civic body said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The man with ties to the Swedish Academy that awards the Nobel Prize in literature lost his appeal Monday to have his rape conviction and a two-year prison sentence reversed and has been convicted of a second rape, an appeals court ruled.

The Svea Court of Appeal on Monday gave Jean-Claude Arnault two-and- a-half years in jail for raping the same woman twice seven years ago.

In October, the 72-year-old Frenchman, who is married to a former member of the Swedish Academy board, was found guilty of one rape in 2011.

He was acquitted of a second rape because the victim said she was asleep at the time and the lower Stockholm District Court said her account wasn't reliable.

But the appeals court made "a different assessment," saying it was "beyond any reasonable doubt that the accused was guilty of rape" in the second case.

The woman's deposition "gave a credible impression," adding that her account "was strongly supported by those of several witnesses," and found them "reliable and sufficient" for a conviction.

The court also said it had taken into consideration Arnault's "relatively high age" and "the unusually long time from the offense committed to the prosecution."



The sex abuse scandal led eight members to either leave or disassociate themselves from the secretive body's 18-member board. Amid the chaos, this year's Nobel literature award has been postponed to 2019.

The charges against Arnault, the husband of Katarina Frostenson, have rocked the prestigious body.

He is also suspected of leaking the name of Nobel Prize literature winners allegedly seven times, starting in 1996. In May, the academy announced that no prize would be awarded this year.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Press Council of India has taken suo-motu cognizance of reports of an Imphal-based journalist being arrested under the National Security Act (NSA) for allegedly uploading videos criticising the BJP-led Manipur government.

Press Council of India (PCI) Chairman Justice Chandramauli Kumar Prasad has directed the chief secretary, home secretary and the director general of police to "take a report on the facts of the case, along with a reply statement", the PCI said in a statement.

Kishorechand Wangkhem is a journalist of a local TV channel and the videos, which he had uploaded on November 19 in both English and Meitei, were not related to his official work, officials had said.

In his video clips, Wangkhem had purportedly said he was saddened and shocked to learn that the state government was observing the birth anniversary of Rani of Jhansi, according to media reports.

He reportedly said Rani of Jhansi's deeds had nothing to do with Manipur and the state was observing her birth anniversary because the Centre had asked it to.

In this context, he had allegedly called Chief Minister N Biren Singh a "puppet of the Centre" and "puppet of Hindutva", the reports said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A 16-year-old rape victim has knocked the doors of the Delhi High Court seeking permission to terminate her 22-week "unwanted" pregnancy.

The court has said the minor needed to be medically evaluated, both physically and psychologically.

According to the minor's plea, she was lured into sexual relationship by a married man for a year, after which she became pregnant.

Justice Vibhu Bakhru after interacting with the minor girl, who insisted that the pregnancy be terminated, said she appeared to be in considerable distress.

It directed the medical superintendent of a government hospital here to constitute a medical board, comprising a gynaecologist and a psychiatrist, to evaluate and give an opinion on medical termination of pregnancy.

The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act prohibits the abortion of a foetus after 20 weeks of pregnancy. An exception to the law is made if a registered medical practitioner certifies to a court that the continued pregnancy is life-threatening for either the mother or the baby.

The court, in its order passed on November 28, asked the girl to appear before the board on November 30 and directed the board to submit its report thereafter.

The victim's counsel relied upon the Supreme Court's orders in which the court, after examining the medical reports, had permitted the termination of pregnancy even after a period of 24 weeks of pregnancy.

The girl, in petition filed through her father, said she was a victim of rape as the 20-year-old man lured her into sexual relations by telling her that he was a divorcee and "they were akin to husband and wife".

This resulted in her conceiving an unwanted pregnancy, the plea said.

The Indian Penal Code says sexual relationship with a girl below 16 years of age is punishable for offence of rape irrespective of her consent.

An FIR was lodged on November 3 for the alleged offence of rape under the IPC and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.

"The minor is a victim of rape who has undergone and is continuing to suffer from deep trauma and anguish both as a result of the rape and the consequent pregnancy and is in no fit mental or physical state to bear a pregnancy to term. The lifelong effect on her as a consequence of such forced pregnancy will be grave and irreversible," the plea said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)North Indian leaders belonging to various parties in Mumbai feel that MNS chief Raj Thackeray's comments on influx of migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar to Mumbai indicate that he has not dropped his hardcore "Marathi manoos" agenda.

Addressing a rally of north Indians Sunday, Thackeray, known for his strident son-of-the-soil rhetoric, had said that migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar should question the leaders in their home states for lack of development.

Former Mumbai Congress president Kripashankar Singh said Thackeray's "oppressive stand" towards the migrants would not change, though he made his speech in Hindi.

"Thackeray should realise at outset that North Indians come here for livelihood and not to take away jobs of the locals," he said.

Mumbai BJP general secretary Amarjeet Mishra said the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief should quit politics, as he has "failed to understand Maharashtra and its people".

"He (Thackeray) dubbed Uttar Pradesh and Bihar as poor states. If that is so, he should answer why the coastal Konkan region in Maharashtra has remained undeveloped despite being rich in natural resources?" asked Mishra.

Mishra dismissed Thackeray's claim that greed of getting flats under slum redevelopment schemes is attracting migrants to Mumbai.

"The concept of providing free homes to slum dwellers was envisaged by late Balasahab Thackeray. (Raj) is criticising his own uncle through his comments," Mishra said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A day after Raj Thackeray appealed to migrants coming to Mumbai in search of livelihood to respect the local culture, the Congress Monday asked the MNS chief to avoid targeting them for furthering his "political agenda".

Addressing a rally of north Indians Sunday, Thackeray, known for his strident son-of-the-soil agenda, had said that migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar should question the leaders in their home states for lack of development.

Hitting out at Thackeray, Mumbai Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam said the statement of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief that north Indians residing in Mumbai have no respect (for local culture and language), is "extremely shameful".

"While he (Thackeray) wants them to ask their leaders about the lack of employment in the northern states, no one gives Thackeray the right to commit any kind of violence against them," Nirupam said, adding that Thackeray should refrain from furthering his political agenda.

In his speech, Thackeray had noted that chunk of migrants come to Mumbai from UP, Bihar, Jharkhand and Bangladesh.

"All I want is if people are coming to Maharashtra in search of livelihood, they should respect the local language and culture," he had said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A criminal offence has been registered against around 25 people, including a local MNS leader, for allegedly ransacking the office of a water amusement park here and assaulting its manager, police said Monday.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) Thane region chief Avinash Jadhav was among the 25 people, including women, booked Sunday for the November 30 incident in Kasarwadavali here, they said.

The incident was triggered by sacking of some employees of the amusement park, the police said.

According to a complaint filed by the amusement park's security supervisor, an irate group, led by Jadhav, barged into the manager's cabin and vandalised it.

Jadhav then allegedly slapped the manager and sought to know the reason for the employees' sacking, the police said, citing the complaint.

The violent group included some of the sacked employees, they said, adding members of the crowd also allegedly abused the manager.

The accused were booked under IPC sections related to criminal intimidation, voluntarily causing hurt, breach of peace and criminal trespass, among others, the police added.

No arrest has been made till now, they said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A police inspector and a youth were killed on Monday as a mob protesting over illegal cow slaughter went on a rampage torching a police post and clashed with police, which opened fire, officials said.

Additional Director General (Meerut zone) Prashant Kumar said the protestors from Mahaw village and nearby areas pelted stones on the police and indulged in arson, setting ablaze several vehicles and Chingarwathi Police Chowki.

Inspector Subodh Kumar, who was posted at the Siana Police Station, died in the violence, he said, but did not elaborate. Police also said a 20-year-old youth, identified as Sumit, died of gunshot wounds.

As tension prevailed in the area following the violence that lasted nearly three hours, the Uttar Pradesh government deployed additional police, including over 1,000 personnel of anti-riot forces and ordered multiple probes -- by SIT, ADG-Intelligence -- and a magisterial inquiry.

Giving details of the incident, ADG Law and Order Anand Kumar said in Lucknow that trouble started after villagers found some body parts of cows in a jungle in Mahaw village.

"This morning carcasses of the cows were found dumped in a forest area outside the village. Activists of right-wing organisations soon gathered at the spot and alleged that people of a community were indulging in cow slaughter," he said.

Angry villagers and members of various Hindu groups brought the animal remains in tractor-trolley to the Chingarwathi Police Chowki and demanded action against the culprits.

They raised slogans against the police administration and blocked the Bulandshahr-Garh State Highway.

Bulandshahr District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha, Sub-divisional Magistrate Avinash Kumar Maurya and other senior officials tried to reason with the protestors but they refused to budge.

The protesters soon turned violent, pelting stones on policemen and indulging in arson, he said, adding that police had to open fire in self-defence.

Kumar said the UP government acted swiftly and ordered an SIT probe, besides an inquiry by the ADG intelligence and a magisterial probe.

He said that additional reinforcements have been rushed to the spot of violence, and described the situation as under control.

"Police inspector Subodh Kumar died in hospital during treatment after being hit by a blunt object, probably stone," he said.

Amid reports that the cop was lynched, the ADG said the exact reason for his death will be known after a post-mortem and the inquiry by the ADG-intelligence who has been asked to submit a report in 48 hours.

The ADG said that security has been bolstered in the area with 500 personnel of Rapid Action Force and 600 personnel of Provincial Armed Constabulary.

DM Jha said, "Some people took the bodies of the animals and tried to block the road. The policemen were attacked when they tried to get the road opened."



Meanwhile, mobile footage from the area, shot by onlookers showed young men attacking policemen with stones.

The violence started at around 10 am in Siana area in the district where a major three-day Islamic congregation had concluded this afternoon. The policemen warned against attempts to spread any misleading information, saying the incident was not related in any way to the congregation.

"The incident occurred 40-50 km away from the congregation site. Some miscreants were behind the violence and action is being taken against them in accordance with law," the Bulandshahr Police tweeted in the evening.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Ahmed Reda Chami, Moroccos current Ambassador to the European Union, has been appointed head of the Economic, Social and Environmental Council (CESE).

King Mohammed VI appointed Ahmed Reda Chami to the position this Monday at a ceremony at the Royal Palace in Rabat.

During the ceremony, the Sovereign emphasized the role and importance of the Council, as a pluralistic constitutional institution with advisory missions to the government and the parliament, said the Royal Office in a statement.

These missions can concern general guidelines of the national economy and sustainable development, various economic, social and environmental issues, or the analysis of the economic juncture and the monitoring of the impact of national, regional and international economic and social policies, the statement said.

In this connection, the King instructed Mr. Chami to see to it that the Council continues to carry out the missions entrusted to it and to reinforce the efficiency of its contribution in terms of proposals and studies in different areas under the scope of its competence, the statement said.

The Sovereign insisted in this vein on the councils mission in the promotion of human and sustainable development projects in the country, the facilitation and consolidation of consultation and cooperation between economic and social stakeholders and the strengthening of the culture of dialogue.

Ahmed Reda Chami, a former trade minister and former chairman of the USFP parliamentary group is replacing Nizar Baraka, who has been elected Secretary General of the Istiqlal party.

King Mohammed VI also appointed Younes Benakki, a former executive of the Ministry of National Education, as Secretary General of the CESE.

The mission of the CESE, set up in 2011, is to conduct studies and research, either at the request of the government, the House of Representatives, the House of Councilors, or at its own initiative.

The Council was first headed by Chakib Benmoussa from 2011 to 2012. After Benmoussa was appointed ambassador to France, he was replaced by Nizar Baraka in August 2013.Mounting a blistering attack on Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday accused the prime minister and the ruling BJP of posing a threat to the country, claiming that they "spread hatred and anger".

Reacting to Gandhi's remarks, BJP spokesperson and Rajya Sabha member GVL Narasimha Rao said, "It is the Congress that has resorted to caste and communal The BJP has spoken on issues of development and people's welfare. The Congress, in its desperation to come back to the electoral race, has been appealing to caste and communal considerations."



Addressing rallies in poll-bound Telangana, Gandhi also lambasted caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, calling him "Khao Commission Rao" for alleged corruption and accusing his Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) of being "the B Team" of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

"Wherever I go, I speak against Narendra Modi, because I know there is a threat to the country from Modi and the BJP. They spread hatred and anger," he said at a rally in Tandur.

The Congress, he asserted, would stand up to it, continue to fight against it and never compromise.

"...in 2019 (Lok Sabha polls), we will see to it that the BJP is defeated and Modi is removed," Gandhi added.

Hitting out at Rao, who is popularly called KCR, he asked the TRS chief why he supported the BJP and wanted to become the "B team" of the saffron party.

"You (KCR) have done so much of corruption that your name is changed. Today, your name KCR stands for 'Khao Commission Rao'.

"Because of this, Modi ran Telangana through a remote control. The fact is that due to your (KCR) corruption, you are not able to stand up to Modi," Gandhi said.

The Congress chief said in every speech, the prime minister attacked him, made fun of him, talked about his family, but never criticised KCR, adding that the real name of KCR's party (TRS) was "T-RSS".

The TRS and the Asaduddin Owaisi-led All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) were actually the "B" and "C" teams of the BJP, he alleged.

Modi and the TRS had struck a "partnership" to ensure the continuation of the BJP and TRS rule at the Centre and in the state respectively, Gandhi said.

"In this election, we will break this partnership. We will defeat the TRS and the AIMIM," he said at a rally in Gadwal.

"The aim of the TRS is to ensure that Modi remains the prime minister, the BJP continues to rule the country and KCR rules in Telangana," Gandhi said.

In the last four-and-a-half years, KCR had supported the Modi government on various occasions, he said, referring to the TRS backing the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) nominees in the presidential and vice-presidential elections.

Besides, Rao had also praised demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) "under pressure", the Congress chief claimed.

"You have to remember that there is a partnership between the TRS and Modi and they are working together," he said, adding, "We will ensure the defeat of the TRS in Telangana and Modi's BJP in Delhi (in the 2019 Lok Sabha election)."



Gandhi also accused KCR of redesigning the Rs 10,000-crore Palamuru-Ranga Reddy Lift Irrigation Scheme into a Rs 60,000-crore project to benefit his friends and family, adding that the people of the state did not get water.

"Thousands of crores of rupees went to his contractor friends and his family," he alleged.

"KCR has been redesigning one project after another in the last five years and the people have given him a new name...every child knows his new name. It is Khao Commission Rao," the Congress chief alleged.

When the state was formed five years ago, people had a dream of a new Telangana and a brighter future -- of "neelu" (water), "nidhulu" (funds) and "niyamakalu" (appointments) and of a "Bangaru Telangana" (Golden Telangana) -- he said.

"KCR became the chief minister and only one family ruled the state....your dreams were shattered. KCR betrayed you on (the promise of) water," he said, adding that under the TRS rule, the dream of a "Golden Telangana" had led to a "golden kutumbam" (golden family).

The Congress is contesting the Telangana Assembly polls, leading a four-party People's Front, while the TRS and the BJP are going it alone.

The 119-member Telangana Assembly will go to polls on December 7 and the results will be announced on December 11.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Mounting a blistering attack on Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday accused the prime minister and the BJP of posing a threat to the country, claiming that they "spread hatred and anger".

Reacting to Gandhi's remark, BJP spokesperson and Rajya Sabha member GVL Narasimha Rao said, "It is the Congress that has resorted to caste and communal The BJP has spoken on issues of development and people's welfare. The Congress, in its desperation to come back to the electoral race, has been appealing to caste and communal considerations."



Addressing rallies in poll-bound Telangana, Gandhi also lambasted caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, calling him "Khao Commission Rao" for alleged corruption and accusing his Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) of being the "B team" of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

"Wherever I go, I speak against Narendra Modi, because I know there is a threat to the country from Modi and the BJP. They spread hatred and anger," he said at a rally in Tandur.

The Congress, he asserted, would stand up to it, continue to fight against it and never compromise.

"...in 2019 (Lok Sabha polls), we will see to it that the BJP is defeated and Modi is removed," Gandhi said.

Hitting out at Rao, who is popularly called KCR, he asked the TRS chief why he supported the BJP and wanted to become the "B team" of the saffron party.

"You (KCR) have done so much of corruption that your name is changed. Today, your name KCR stands for 'Khao Commission Rao'.

"Because of this, Modi ran Telangana through a remote control. The fact is that due to your (KCR) corruption, you are not able to stand up to Modi," Gandhi alleged.

Rao feared Modi as he indulged in corruption, Gandhi claimed, speaking at a rally in Hyderabad in the evening.

"I will tell you the reason. You listen to the speeches of KCRji. In the last five years, (he) did not hurt Narendra Modi, supported him in the Lok Sabha...KCR has indulged in corruption. Modiji has the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate. Because of corruption, KCRji fears Modi," he said.

Telangana's "remote control" was in the hands of Modi, he added.

The Congress chief said in every speech, the prime minister attacked him, made fun of him, talked about his family, but never criticised KCR, adding that the real name of KCR's party (TRS) was "T-RSS".

The TRS and the Asaduddin Owaisi-led All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) were actually the "B" and "C" teams of the BJP, he alleged.

Modi and the TRS had struck a "partnership" to ensure the continuation of the BJP and TRS rule at the Centre and in the state respectively, Gandhi said.

"In this election, we will break this partnership. We will defeat the TRS and the AIMIM...we will ensure the defeat of the TRS in Telangana and Modi's BJP in Delhi (in the 2019 Lok Sabha election)," he said at his first rally of the day in Gadwal.

Gandhi also accused KCR of redesigning the Rs 10,000-crore Palamuru-Ranga Reddy Lift Irrigation Scheme into a Rs 60,000-crore project to benefit his friends and family, adding that the people of the state did not get water.

"Thousands of crores of rupees went to his contractor friends and his family," he alleged.

"KCR has been redesigning one project after another in the last five years and the people have given him a new name...every child knows his new name. It is Khao Commission Rao," the Congress chief said.

When the state was formed five years ago, people had a dream of a new Telangana and a brighter future -- of "neelu" (water), "nidhulu" (funds) and "niyamakalu" (appointments) and of a "Bangaru Telangana" (Golden Telangana) -- he said.

"KCR became the chief minister and only one family ruled the state...your dreams were shattered. KCR betrayed you on (the promise of) water," he said, adding that under the TRS rule, the dream of a "Golden Telangana" had led to a "golden kutumbam" (golden family).

The Congress is contesting the Telangana Assembly polls, leading a four-party People's Front, while the TRS and the BJP are going it alone.

The 119-member Telangana Assembly will go to polls on December 7 and the results will be announced on December 11.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Reiterating India's commitment to fight climate change, Union Minister Harsh Vardhan Monday said it was "crucial" to find ways to combat the issue with the "wisdom of collective cultural tradition" apart from modern technologies.

Inaugurating the Indian Pavilion at the key climate summit here in Poland, the minister said India believes in contribution of citizens, sustainable lifestyles and climate justice provides an alternative means to address climate change which must be "rigorously" pursued.

"India stands committed to fighting climate change. Guided by our Indian culture and ethos, we are dedicated to climate action that will ensure climate justice for all," he said.

The 24th meeting of Conference of Parties (COP-24) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) got underway at Katowice in Poland.

COP-24 is very significant as it is expected to finalise guidelines for the implementation of the Paris Agreement.

"I believe it is crucial that we find ways to combat climate change not just through modern technologies but with the wisdom of our collective cultural tradition," he said.

He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had reminded the whole world of the need for environmental protection and adopting the climate resilient lifestyles.

"We also believe that contribution of citizens, sustainable lifestyles and climate justice provides an alternative means to address climate change which must be rigorously pursued," he said.

The Indian Pavilion reflects the country's ambitious and bold actions on climate change, he said, adding that India would be organising more than 20 sessions, covering issues important for climate change adaptation and mitigation.

This year the theme of India Pavilion is 'One World One Sun One Grid' as highlighted Modi during first assembly of the International Solar Alliance on October 2018.

The prime minister has set an ambitious target that 40 per cent of its installed power capacity will be from non-fossil fuels by 2030, he said.

"Under the visionary leadership of the prime minister, we have launched many policies and set up institutional mechanisms to advance our climate actions," he said.

"These initiatives are a reflection of our commitment towards addressing climate change concern including energy security, food and water security, capacity enhancement at national and state level," he added.

The minister had earlier said that the outcome of the climate summit should be "balanced and inclusive", and asserted that India expected the conference to frame guidelines, which are pragmatic and give due consideration to the challenges and priorities of developing nations.

He also referred to 'Green Good Deeds' movement, a nationwide campaign in preserving and protecting the through people's participation.

The minister said India was working hard to achieve the target of 175 GW for installed renewable energy capacity by 2022.

"The effect of increased use of renewable energy is now visible in India. Resultantly, India stands fourth in wind power, fifth in renewable power and fifth in solar power installed. Besides solar and wind power, we are also working on biomass, biofuel and bio-energy," he said.

"Our aim will always be to leap ahead into the future of energy solutions that make this world a cleaner and greener place," added the minister as he highlighted that in the last few years, India had taken a number of other initiatives.

Till date, more than 310 million LEDs have been installed countrywide while around 58 million households are already covered under Ujjwala scheme, he said.

The Ujjwala scheme will not only contribute to improved health of women and children, but also help in reducing forest degradation, he noted.

"In the last two years, India achieved 1 per cent increase in its forest cover whereas in many countries across the globe, it is depleting," he said, adding that more than 0.26 million electric vehicles have been sold, with more than 91 million CO2 reduction (in kgs).

"Apart from this, we have also pledged to get rid of single-use plastic by 2022



across the country," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)NASA's first-ever mission designed to visit an asteroid and return a sample of its dust back to Earth arrives Monday at its destination, Bennu, two years after launching from Cape Canaveral, Florida.

The USD800 million mission, known as OSIRIS-REx, is targeted for a 12 pm (1700 GMT) rendez-vous with the asteroid, and will use its suite of five science instruments to study the asteroid for the next year and a half.

Then, in 2020, it will reach out with its robotic arm and touch the asteroid in what NASA has described as a "gentle high-five," aiming to collect about two ounces (60 grams) of material from the asteroid's surface, and return it to Earth for further study.

Bennu is a carbon-rich asteroid, chosen from some 500,000 asteroids in the solar system because it orbits close to Earth's path around the Sun, is the right size for scientific study, and is one of the oldest asteroids known to NASA.

Scientists hope it will reveal more about the early formation of the solar system, as well as how to find precious resources like metals and water in asteroids.

Japanese space agency JAXA first proved sample collection from an asteroid was possible.

JAXA's Hayabusa spacecraft crash-landed into the surface of its target asteroid and managed to return a few micrograms of material in 2010.

A live NASA broadcast of the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft's formal arrival begins at 11:45 am (1645 GMT).

OSIRIS-REx stands for Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security-Regolith Explorer.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The is looking at inducting 56 warships and submarines and the process for bringing in a third aircraft carrier has been moved, Navy Chief Admiral said on Monday, vowing to enhance the force's maritime capability.

He also assured the country that the Navy is keeping round-the-clock vigil on India's maritime domain.

"Navy is looking at inducting 56 warships and submarines to enhance its strength. This is apart from 32 warships under construction," he said at his annual press conference.

The process for installing automated identification transponders on around 250,000 fishing boats has been started as part of efforts to enhance coastal security, Admiral Lanba said.



The process for induction of a third aircraft carrier has been moved, he said.

Talking about the contract given to Reliance Naval Engineering limited for five offshore patrol vehicles, he said, "We are looking into the contract."





"Bank guarantee for the deal has been encashed," he added.

Asked about the status of the proposal to set up a base at Seychelles' Assumption Island, he said talks were on with the government of the island nation.

With Maldives now having a favourable government, the two countries are set to strengthen their maritime cooperation, the Navy chief said.A few months after Union Shipping Minister had remarked that his ministry would not give an inch of land to the Navy for housing, the force's Western Naval Command chief Vice Admiral Girish Luthra Monday said land issues with the had been resolved.

Gadkari had made the remark on January 11 this year at a function here while voicing his disappointment at the Navy's objection to a floating jetty plan at Malabar Hill in south Mumbai.

Vice Admiral Luthra was present at the function when Gadkari made the remark.

"Actually, Navy is needed at the borders from where terrorists sneak in. Why does everyone (in the Navy) want to stay in South Mumbai? They (Navy) had come to me, asking for a plot (of land). I will not give even an inch of land. Please don't come to me again," Gadkari had said at the time.

The remark had caused controversy with opposition parties hitting out at Gadkari for belittling the Navy and its services to the nation.

Speaking Monday at the Navy Day conference here, Vice Admiral Luthra said, "A series of discussions on land issues have taken place between the and (MbPT). It has been resolved after discussions took place at the level of Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Shipping."



He added that the Navy had given permission for the construction and completion of a commercial cruise terminal near the Naval Dockyard and security concerns related to it were being solved.

He also said that the Navy had not asked for any land from the MbPT for berthing.

Calling safety and security issues being tackled by the Navy as "challenging", the officer said "unlike land, we cannot build fences in the sea".

"We are in the process of setting up an Automatic Identification System with the help of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). These satellite tracking devices will be fitted onto fishing boats to help the Navy identify registered boats and their movement on the high seas," said another Navy officer.Apex child rights body NCPCR has proposed formation of a system for proper management and monitoring of data related to child care institutions, its chairperson Priyank Kanoongo has said.

He said all state commissions have visited around 1,100 child care institutions recently and proposed that a Management Information System be prepared for proper administration and monitoring of data related to child care institutions (CCIs).

He also said that the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has recently formulated a Quick Response Cell (QRC) to attend emergent complaints and cases of child rights violation in a time-bound manner.

In a workshop organised with state commissions on Sunday, Supreme Court Judge Madan B Lokur has urged the Women and Child Development Ministry and the child rights body NCPCR to ensure physical well being of children at child care institutions.

He raised concern that many state commissions do not have adequate budget and staffing and called upon all state commissions to prepare annual reports and place them before the state legislature.

The annual report should contain the policy objectives of the commission, achievements and also the shortfalls, gaps and constraints. He felt it necessary that each commission should be assisted by legal experts and in this regard he said he would take up the issue with National Legal Services Authority, according to a statement by the NCPCR.

He was speaking at a workshop organised by the NCPCR on functioning of the State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCRs) on Sunday.

The workshop saw the participation of 28 state commissions with a view to strengthen the functioning of the commissions and effective implementation of mandates as provided in the CPCR Act, the statement said.

Lokur urged all participants to ensure physical well being of all children during their visits to child care institutions, the statement said.

Rakesh Srivastav, Secretary at the WCD Ministry, emphasised that the state commissions should promote non-institutional care and also continue



inspections of CCIs.

The state commissions should also look into the fact that orphan and abandoned children residing in such institutions should be linked to CARINGS for their placement in adoption.

He also urged that district education officers may be approached and their services may be effectively used for implementation of the Right to Education Act.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The National Commission for Women (NCW) will support livelihood programmes for the women in the northeast, particularly for those in younger age group, through skill development and specialised training, the DoNER Ministry said Monday.

This was discussed at a meeting between Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jitendra Singh and the newly appointed member of the National Commission for Women, Soso Shaiza.

The NCW will support livelihood programmes for the women in the northeast, particularly for those in younger age group, through skill development and specialised training, which can enable them to earn their living and also empower them as individuals, a DoNER ministry statement said.

During the meeting, it was observed that even though women in the northeast, by and large, are quite emancipated as far as their contribution in outdoor work is concerned, there was a huge scope for raising the levels of among the women in remote and rural areas, and also to impart skill training to make them self-reliant.

The minister said the NCW can supplement its efforts and resources in carrying forward several of the women-oriented projects which have already been undertaken by the DoNER and the North Eastern Council (NEC).

The Self Help Groups (SHGs) of women are doing a commendable work in the region, he told Shaiza.

According to the statement, the issue of young women from the northeast living in metro cities like Bengaluru and Mumbai was also discussed in the meeting.

Singh informed Shaiza that the construction work of a hostel in Bangalore University campus exclusively for girl students from the northeastern state is almost complete and the entire project has been funded by the NEC and the DoNER.

He also said that the upcoming hostel for northeast students in Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, will include accommodation for 200 girl students also.

Shaiza was assured by the minister that the PSUs working under the DoNER will offer their collaboration and cooperation in women-oriented welfare programmes in the region, the statement said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Nepal neither used the China card against India nor the India card against China, and wants to develop good relations with its neighbours on the basis of self-respect and sovereignty, a former Nepalese prime minister has said here.

It is not possible that Nepal's relations are good with one neighbouring country and bad with another, veteran politician Madhav Kumar Nepal said while defending the growing relations between Nepal and China.

His comments came amid China's foray into the land-locked Himalayan nation where Beijing has been investing heavily for the last few years to enhance connectivity and infrastructure.

Nepal neither used the China card against India nor the India card against China, said Madhav, who served as the country's prime minister from May, 2009 to February, 2011.

He also highlighted the importance of strong relations between India and Nepal.

"Nepal and India enjoy good relations. We have to strive continuously to make these relations more warm and more close," the 65-year-old former prime minister told PTI.

One should not consider Nepal as its satellite and never interfere in its internal affairs, Madhav said.

"Nepal-India relations should be like the one which creates a win-win situation for both of them. Nepal can never think against India's interests. What would it gain by doing so? India is a big neighbouring country of Nepal with which we have ancient and emotional ties.

"Today, trade has become an important aspect of the world affairs and Nepal wants to go ahead on the path of progress and looks to make its economy stronger," Madhav said.

He said that India is a big country which can be a source for investments in Nepal.

Nepal wants concession in its trade with India, he said.

When Prime Minister Nerandra Modi addressed Nepal's Parliament during his visit to the country in 2014, it had a positive impact on the people. The relations between the two countries got a positive direction after his address but that did not last long and the blockade on the issue of Madhesis negatively impacted the bilateral relations, Madhav said.

There is a need to move ahead instead of deliberating on such issues, he said.

Madhav believes that after Modi's last visit to Nepal in May, things are getting on the track and there is a need for the two countries' leadership to continue working on this direction.

"If Nepal enhances its relations with China in the areas of trade and connectivity, rail, roads and air, then how come it is a disadvantage to India?" he asked.

The former prime minister said that a direct rail line between India and Nepal will benefit Nepal as its businessmen have to use Kolkata's port to import goods from China's Guangzhou city and often pay extra taxes.

"India can help Nepal in the hydropower sector. There is a great scope of tourism in Nepal and India can help it in developing its infrastructure," he said.

He also expressed concern over delay in completing Indian projects and urged the government to pay attention to it.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)LAKE CITY, FL -- On December 7, 2018 at approximately 9:30 a.m., a caravan of vehicles coming from Georgia will visit the Lake City Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center with donations. This tradition is now on its 6th year and includes various entities from Hahira, Valdosta/Lowndes County, and other Georgia locations.



Those part of the caravan during past visits include Tim Coombs, VA Volunteer; Mayor of Hahira, Georgia; Chief of Police and Crew from Hahira, Georgia; Lowndes County, Georgia Sheriff Department; Lowndes County Sheriff Explorers; Georgia Express Bus representation; Patriot Guards, and many more.

Last year over $10,000 worth of donations were given to include presents and personal care items to the inpatients at the Lake City VAMC.

At 10:00 a.m. both the Sub Base Kings Bay Chaplain and the Camden-Kings Bay Navy League will perform a moment of remembrance for Pearl Harbor Day.

For further information contact Michael at 386-755-3016, extension 2135.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was to hold talks with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels on Monday, a day after police recommended the premier's indictment in a third graft case.

Netanyahu's office said the meeting had been set last week, but provided few other details. US President Donald Trump's top diplomat was to be in Brussels for a NATO meeting of foreign ministers on Tuesday.

"I will discuss with Mike Pompeo a series of regional developments as well as the steps we are taking together to block the aggression of Iran and its proxies in the north," Netanyahu said before departing, referring to Syria and Lebanon.

"Of course we will also discuss other issues." They were to meet on Monday evening, with Netanyahu accompanied by the head of Israeli spy agency Mossad, the head of his national security council and his military secretary.

Trump has pledged unwavering support for Israel and has pushed ahead with controversial policies such as moving the US embassy to Jerusalem. Israel and the United States have also worked closely on a range of issues, particularly related to Iran.

Both have warned of Iran's presence in Syria, which neighbours Israel. Netanyahu has pledged to stop arch-foe Iran from entrenching itself militarily in Syria and to keep it from transferring advanced weapons to its ally Hezbollah in Lebanon.

There has been increased attention in Israel in recent days over Israeli officials' concerns regarding Iranian activity in Lebanon. The Israeli premier has also pursued ties with Arab Gulf nations that have no official diplomatic relations with his country and the United States has backed him in those efforts.

Netanyahu's trip comes a day after police recommended indicting him and his wife Sara for bribery and other offences, the third such move against him in recent months.

The attorney general must now decide whether to indict Netanyahu, who rejects the accusations against him in all three cases.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)British Sikh girls being targeted by Pakistani-origin grooming gangs for sexual abuse and exploitation over the years have not received full attention of the authorities due to political correctness, claims a new report released on Monday.

The 'Religiously Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of Young Sikh Women Across the UK' report, collated by the Sikh Mediation And Rehabilitation Team (SMART) and Sikh Youth UK, received the backing of parliamentarians as it called for an investigation into the pattern of abuse dating back decades.

"Since the early nineteen-eighties, evidence collated by British Sikh organisations has recorded cases of sexual abuse and exploitation against young Sikh females by grooming gangs populated by perpetrators of primarily Pakistani or Muslim heritage," the report noted.

"Although not exclusively, offences are documented as regularly being committed within the structure of networks, including the nuclear and extended family members of offenders. This has in turn prompted questions surrounding whether young Sikh females are victims of opportunists or being targeted due to their religious heritage," it said.

The researchers are keen to highlight that the study was not undertaken as a "witch-hunt against any individual, community, culture or faith" but as a means to provide some "clear understanding and acceptance" of key factors contributing to the risk.

Among the factors influencing the trend, the report flagged that some early Sikh migrants claim the organised targeting of Sikh females was conducted, in part, as "retaliation" for the involvement of Sikh soldiers in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.

It also documents a string of recent high-profile prosecutions of Pakistani-origin grooming gangs who targeted white British schoolgirls in areas such as Rochdale and Rotherham.

"With the emergence of multiple similar cases across the UK, the perceived failure to act has now been attributed to the 'political correctness' that inhibited authorities and agencies from addressing the racial and cultural dimensions understood as causative factors behind the abuse," the report noted.

It added: "Many within the Sikh community have advocated that it is of the utmost importance that British justice operates on a level playing field.

"However, where it is clear that a child is at threat or targeted for abuse due to their race or religion, it is essential that the recording and prosecution of cases reflects all aspects surrounding the abuse."



Veteran Indian-origin Labour Party MP Virendra Sharma welcomed the findings that would help tackle the wider issue of child abuse by ensuring that while police are sensitive, they act "effectively" to prevent any immediate risk.

"Steps to end the stigma of reporting abuse and end the culture of silence, referred to in the report, are key but will require many years of difficult intervention. I will be pleased to support steps to end any systematic targeting and this report is a key step in that fight," said Sharma, who represents the west London constituency of Ealing Southall with a large British Sikh population.

His views were echoed by fellow Labour Party MP Sarah Champion, who has been very vocal over the issue of child sexual grooming as many Pakistani-origin men from her constituency of Rotherham were jailed for sexual abuse and rape of schoolgirls.

She said: "When I first heard about the specific targeting of Sikh girls for abuse I was shocked. Having met survivors, I know the long-term devastation to the girls, their families and the Sikh community as a whole.

"I support the call for an inquiry into this form of sexual exploitation and how it has been able to go on for so long unchallenged by government agencies."



The issue hit the headlines in recent weeks as six British Pakistanis were sentenced to a total of 101 years behind bars last month for sexually grooming and abusing young girls in the northern England town of Rotherham.

UK home secretary Sajid Javid, himself of Pakistani origin, had taken to Twitter to condemn the "sick Asian paedophiles" and attracted some backlash for singling out a particular community.

On Monday, he defended his comments once again, saying: "Any normal person looking at the recent convictions of gangs that abuse children would have noticed that a vast majority are from a Pakistani heritage and we cannot ignore that."



"If you do ignore that, if you sit in a position of power like me and you ignore that, what you actually end up doing is fuelling the voices of extremism that are out there that will then prey on that," he added.

The UK Home Office said that child sexual abuse has been categorised as a "national threat", with the government investing millions of pounds to enable officers to actively seek out and bring offenders to justice.

"Group-based child sexual exploitation is a complex issue and the government is working to improve our understanding of how to prevent this heinous crime," a statement said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The NHRC Monday sent notices to the Uttar Pradesh government and the state's police chief over a married woman being set ablaze allegedly by her tormentors, when she was going to lodge a police complaint against them.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has also directed the Uttar Pradesh police chief to apprise it of action taken in the case.

On November 29, the 26-year-old woman was allegedly molested by two brothers and when she tried to approach the police to get an FIR lodged, the duo allegedly caught hold of her, sprinkled kerosene on her body and set her ablaze.

The victim was admitted to the district hospital with 40-45 per cent burn injuries, Inspector General of Police (IG), Zone, Sujit Pandey said.

"She appears to have fallen prey to police personnel's apathy and sheer negligence," the National Human Rights Commission observed in a statement Monday.

"The NHRC has taken suo motu cognisance of media reports that a woman, victim of molestation, was set ablaze by her tormentors, when she was going to lodge a written complaint with the police station about them as suggested by the Police Control Room van personnel in Sitapur district, Uttar Pradesh on December 1," it said.

Reportedly, in her recorded statement before a magistrate at the hospital, the victim named the two accused and narrated the "inaction of the local police personnel," the NHRC statement said.

The Commission has observed that the content of the media reports, if true, amount to gross violation of human rights of the victim as the public servant appear to have "failed" to execute their duty to safeguard the victim woman from the rowdy elements.

Accordingly, the NHRC has issued notices to the Uttar Pradesh chief secretary and the director general of police, seeking a detailed report, including action taken against the alleged delinquent police officials.

"The Commission would also like to know about present condition of the victim and status of medical treatment being provided to her. The response is expected within four weeks," the rights panel said.

Meanwhile, the NCW termed the incident and the alleged police apathy "deeply disturbing" and sent a notice to the DGP directing him that the matter be fairly investigated and appropriate action be taken to avoid occurrence of similar incidents in future.

"The UP DGP has also been directed to apprise the Commission about condition of the victim and the detailed action taken in the matter," the NCW said in a tweet.

On November 29, the woman, who is married, was allegedly molested by two brothers -- Ramu (32) and Rajesh (28), the police said.

Reportedly, they made lewd remarks and tried to molest the victim on November 29, but she somehow managed to escape and approached the police station, from where the police personnel sent her back without any action, the NHRC said.

The family members of the victim alleged that for two days, her complaint was not accepted by the police at the post concerned and also at the Tambore police station.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Prabhakar Chowdhury said three policemen, including Tambore Station House Officer (SHO) Om Prakash Saroj and outpost in-charge Manoj Kumar were suspended.

Both the brothers were arrested, IG Pandey said.

"Had timely action been taken by them (the police), the woman could have been saved from the brutal attack by the miscreants, who seemingly gathered more courage to attack her due to inaction by the police personnel," the NHRC observed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)In a joint operation by the Army and police officers, nine cadres of outlawed NDFB(S), including a teenager, have been arrested from Jairampur in Arunachal Pradesh.

The rebels were infiltrating into India from their training camp in Myanmar when security forces apprehended them Sunday, Director General of Police SBK Singh said.

A huge cache of arms and ammunition, including pistols and AK- 56 rifles, were recovered from their posession.

"Acting on a tip-off, a joint team of Red Horns Division of Assam Rifles and Jairampur Police ambushed the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (Songbijit) rebels on their infiltration route," Singh said, adding that the operation has dealt a "body blow" to the militant outfit.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Centre Monday told the Supreme Court that it may not be necessary to substitute retired IPS officer Rajdeep Singh who has declined to be a part of three-member SIT supervising further probe into 186 cases of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots citing personal reasons.

The government told a bench of Justices Madan B Lokur and Deepak Gupta that they have no objection if the other two members of the special investigation team (SIT) -- former Delhi High Court judge Justice S N Dhingra and serving IPS officer Abhishek Dular -- continue with the work.

The bench said however that since the January 11 order constituting a three-member SIT was passed by a bench of three-judges, they cannot modify it while sitting in a combination of two judges.

The bench has posted the matter for hearing tomorrow.

Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Pinky Anand, appearing for the Centre, said she has no objection to the suggestions given by the counsel for petitioner that the other two members should continue with the work.

On January 11, the top court had constituted a three-member SIT headed by Justice (retired) Dhingra to supervise further probe into the 186 cases, in which closure reports had been filed earlier.

Large-scale riots had broken out in the national capital in the aftermath of the assassination of the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her two Sikh security guards on the morning of October 31, 1984. The violence had claimed 2,733 lives in Delhi alone.

On February 5, the Centre had moved the court requesting it to include former DG-rank officer Navneet Rajan Wasan, who had earlier served as the Director General of Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), in the SIT to replace Singh.

Wasan, now retired, is a 1980-batch Andhra Pradesh cadre officer and had also served as Special Director General in the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

During the hearing on Monday, the ASG told the bench that they have suggested the name of former IPS officer Wasan to substitute Singh.

"You cannot choose your own judge. Give two-three names," the bench told the ASG, who said that the apex court could appoint anybody to substitute Singh.

Senior advocates R S Suri and H S Phoolka, representing the petitioner, said appointing a third member in the SIT might delay the process and the other two members should continue with their work.

The top court had earlier appointed the three-member SIT after the Ministry of Home Affairs and counsel for petitioner S G S Kahlon arrived at a consensus with regard to the persons who could be appointed in the fresh SIT.

The court had earlier said the previous SIT did not carry out further probe into the 186 cases in which closure reports were filed, and had directed setting up of a fresh SIT comprising a former high court judge and two police officers.

Justice Dhingra, who had retired from Delhi High Court, had dealt with several high-profile cases including the 2001 Parliament Attack case as a trial judge.

As the judge of the trial court, he had dealt with many of the 1984 riot cases, and his verdicts had resulted in conviction in 16 cases.

On August 16 last year, the apex court had appointed a supervisory panel to examine the earlier SIT's decision to close 241 cases.

The Centre had said that out of 250 riots cases which were probed by that SIT, closure reports were filed in 241. It said some cases were still being investigated by the SIT, and two by the CBI.

The earlier SIT was headed by Pramod Asthana, an IPS officer of 1986 batch, and had Rakesh Kapoor, a retired district and sessions judge, and Kumar Gyanesh, an additional deputy commissioner of Delhi Police, as its members.

Petitioner S Gurlad Singh Kahlon had earlier told the bench that a total of 293 riot-related cases were taken up for scrutiny by the earlier SIT which had decided to close 199 of them.

Kahlon, a member of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee, had sought the court's direction for setting up another SIT to ensure speedy justice to the riot victims.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.): Novel schemes to tap the unexplored tourism potential of north Malabar region of Kerala have been evolved by the state-run Bekal Resorts Development Corporation (BRDC).

The corporation facilitated setting up of scores of Small and Medium Industries Leveraging Experiential Tourism (SMiLE) ventures involving aspiring entrepreneurs to set up tourism-related infrastructure facilities.

The BRDC will organise a three-day "SMILE Ambassador Tour" programme involving the country's leading tourist operators from December6, a press release said.

The event is being hosted to introduce experiential tourism destinations and products typical to respective localities, BRDC managing director T K Manzoor said in the release.

The FAM (familiarisation) tour package was being envisaged to disseminate among participating stakeholders firsthand information on 50-odd SMiLE ventures managed by 93 entrepreneurs in northern Kasaragod and Kannur districts of the state, the release said.

While the first two days of the tour programme would focus on tourism hotspots in Kasaragod, during the last leg in Kannur on December 8 it was planned to interact with potential stakeholders in the region.

Also, Bekal Resorts proposed to hold talks with officials of Kannur International Airport, which would be dedicated to the nation on December 9, to seek their support for connectivity development to ensure smooth inflow of foreign and domestic tourists to the region, it said.

The company also planned an interactive meeting with investors associated with North Malabar Chamber of Commerce (NMCC) on December 8 as part of the initiative, it said.

Incidentally, the virtual tour guide (SMiLE VTG), launched by Bekal Resorts recently to guide the tourists to the region, can now be downloaded through Google Play store, the release said.

Bekal Resorts would soon be launching a project to introduce fresh tourism products, which includes 'Suranga,' a traditional water conservation technology, unique to Kasaragod, it said.

The initiatives come against the backdrop of a 2017 report saying the tourist inflow to the region was low despite sustained efforts in that regard, the release said.

According to the report, inflow of international tourists to the region was put at 0.57 per cent while the tally of the domestic visitors was only 6.54 per cent in relation to the tourism destinations in the southern districts of Kerala.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)To achieve 100 per cent ash utilisation on sustainable basis at its coal-based plants, state-run power giant NTPC is organising a contest to invite ideas at pan-India level.

The objective of this competition is to find out innovative methods/ ideas which are commercially viable and practically implementable for achieving 100 per cent ash utilisation at NTPC in environmental-friendly manner, an official statement said.

According to statement the competition is open to Individuals/ Teams/ NGOs/ Professionals/ Researchers/ Scientists/ Institutes/ Organizations/ Business Schools/ Startups etc.

Interested contestants will have to make registration and there is no charges for participation. Winners will be awarded with 1st prize - Rs 5 lakh, 2nd prize - Rs 3 lakh, 3rd prize - Rs 2 lakh and Consolation prizes of Rs 1 lakh each for maximum two entries. The competition is open from December 1 to 24, 2018.

* * * * *



BHEL despatches 40th nuclear steam generator for NPCIL project *



State-run BHEL said Monday it has achieved a major milestone with the despatch of its 40th Nuclear Steam Generator to the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL).

The Steam Generator, to be installed in NPCIL's Rajasthan Atomic Power Project (RAPP), was flagged off Monday from the BHEL's Trichy plant in the presence of senior officials of BHEL and NPCIL. a company statement said.

* * * * * APM Terminal Pipavav gets rail connectivity through ICD Kanpur



*



APM Terminal Pipavav said Monday it has got rail connectivity through ICD Kanpur, established by CONCOR.

The maiden export train started from ICD (Inland Container Depot) Kanpur to Port Pipavav in November.

"APM Terminals Pipavav, one of India's leading multipurpose ports is now connected to ICD Kanpur via train. The new connection, established by CONCOR, gives customers an opportunity to connect to the Gateway Port of Pipavav," the company said in a statement.

APM Terminals Pipavav is one of India's gateway port for containers, Ro/Ro (passenger cars), Liquid Bulk and Dry Bulk cargoes serving customers in Gujarat with road and rail networks to India's hinterland and northwest.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A British couple, whose diamond engagement ring fell down a utility grate in New York's iconic Times Square, will finally get it back, thanks to the NYPD and social media.

John Drennan and Daniella Anthony from Peterborough, UK, was in New York to celebrate their 10-year dating anniversary last week when they lost the precious ring.

The New York Police Department said Saturday the couple sought their for help after the ring fell nearly 8 feet down a utility grate. The NYPD Emergency Services could not immediately recover the ring and the distraught couple left for the UK.

The bride-to-be, Daniella, tweeted on Sunday that her fiancee John proposed in Central Park, but the ring was too big and fell off while they were walking in Times Square on Friday.

"We were walking back to the hotel. I can still visualise the ring. Bouncing once... bouncing twice and then it was gone," Drennan said.

The distraught couple called police straight away and officers were able to jar the grate open with a crow bar.

They looked underneath, with the aid of torches, for at least two hours but could not recover the ring.

After recovering the ring on Saturday, the NYPD launched a manhunt on social media, tweeting several photos of the ring, which they cleaned for the couple, along with security footage of their reaction to its fall.

"WANTED for dropping his fiancee's ring in @TimesSquareNYC!



"She said Yes - but he was so excited that he dropped the ring in a grate. Our @NYPDSpecialops officers rescued it & would like to return it to the happy couple. Help us find them? ??" the tweet said, giving a phone number.

"We are so happy, we can't believe it," the Drennan said after discovering their lost engagement ring has been found.

Speaking to BBC News, Drennan said he had carried the ring around in his pocket for two days before finding the right moment.

"I want to clarify that I did not propose over a grate in Times Square - that's where we lost it," he said.

"The time was right. There were autumn leaves everywhere and not many people."



Daniella said yes straight away but they both knew the ring was not the right size.

"I tried to tell John it was too big, but he insisted I wear it," she said.

"We could not believe it, we really thought it was gone," she said.

Daniella was inconsolable and so they left without leaving their names with police, feeling hopeless.

They arrived home on Sunday and said they were planning on going straight to the jewellery store to buy another ring.

But just moments after they touched down at the airport in the UK, a friend alerted them to the social media campaign being driven by the NYPD.

"We don't use Twitter - we had absolutely no idea this was going on. But we are so happy."



The NYPD said it has now "closed" the case and was working on getting the ring back to the couple in the UK and thanked Twitter users for helping to identify them, CBS reported.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Only "dignified activities" will be permitted on board the Indian Navy's decommissioned aircraft carrier INS Viraat, Western Naval Command chief Vice Admiral Girish Luthra said Monday.

Since its decommissioning, several states have expressed interest to convert the ship into a tourism hub or a museum.

The carrier, built and deployed by the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom in 1959, served the from 1987 till it was formally decommissioned in March, 2017.

The Centaur-Class aircraft carrier operated for 56 years under British and Indian flags, earning itself a Guinness World Records mention for being the oldest serving warship.

"Proposals have been received from several states, including Maharashtra, to convert into some tourism destination. We will be permitting only dignified activities there," Vice Admiral Luthra told reporters here.

He also said the proposal from Maharashtra had been forwarded to the Defence Ministry.

The vice admiral said the ship, in its future avatar, could be a public-private partnership initiative.

"It is going to be a Public Private Partnership (model) which means the state as well as a private company is going to be involved. Whether it will be a convention centre or a museum or a tourism destination will depend on the PPP," he said.

About the Maharashtra government's proposal for INS Viraat, Vice Admiral Luthra said, "It is being examined actively at the highest level."

On the maintenance cost of the decommissioned aircraft carrier, he said about 225 people have been deployed to take care of the ship, but the Navy did not "do any costing" of it.

was commissioned into the on May 12, 1987, and operated Sea Harrier fighter aircraft, Sea King 42B anti-submarine helicopters, Sea King 42C commando carrier helicopters and Chetaks as its main air elements.

The aircraft carrier is reputed for having been out at sea for over six years, covering the globe 27 times.With the arrest of three persons of an NGO for the alleged sexual exploitation of minor girls, the opposition Congress and the BJP Monday demanded a high level inquiry into matter.

The police had Sunday sealed the illegal shelter home, run illegally by the NGO in Odisha's Dhenkanal district, and arrested its managing director.

Following a visit to Dhenkanal, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday alleged that the shelter home was being used as a centre for religious conversions.

BJP Mahila Morcha president Prabhati Parida alleged that the USA based NGO was using its shelter home to convert the inmates, especially boys and girls from the tribal community.

"The head office of the NGO is in the USA and all the governing members of the board are foreigners," Parida claimed questioning the state government for allegedly allowing the NGO to re-open the shelter home in 2017, after it was shut down in 2015.

"The minister should immediately resign on moral grounds owning responsibility," Parida demanded.

Mahila Congress leader Sonali Sahu demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry under supervision of a Supreme Court or High Court judge into the matter.

Women and Child Development Minister Prafulla Samal, meanwhile, refused to resign and said that the state government was taking stringent action against the people involved in the incident.

The ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in a press release accused the BJP of doing cheap politics over a sensitive issue like alleged sexual abuse.

"The BJP is shouting only to gain cheap political publicity. They should desist from indulging in politicisation of a sensitive matter like this especially when it involves children and their well-being," said BJD MP and party spokesperson Prasant Nanda.

Meanwhile, Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) R P Shara has asked the Superintendents of Police (SPs) of all the districts to provide details about the number of shelter homes operating in their respective districts.

He has also asked them to verify whether the shelter homes were registered and details about their modus operandi.

The officials of women and child development department on Monday conducted simultaneous raids at Nandapur in Tihidi block in Bhadrak district, Baliguda in Kandhamal district, Chuliaposi in Udala block and Rairangpur block in Mayurbhanj district.

On the other hand, the inmates of the Dhenkanal shelter home - 47 girls and 34 boys aged between 5 and 16 years - were shifted to another childcare institution.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Photo: Yoan Valat/AFP/Getty Images

In the course of deciding where to put its new headquarters, Amazon learned that Las Vegas has 2,185 students in computer-science programs, that Albany has an exceptionally low uninsured rate, and that three out of four Pittsburghers can afford to buy homes. It also learned about pending real-estate developments and discovered that the governments of Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., dont get along  but Buffalos and Rochesters do. It gathered hundreds of pages worth of other information, too, some of it proprietary, on cities as large as New York and as small as Tewksbury, Massachusetts.

As the company strives to become all things to all people, this trove of information could be the foundation of its strategy, the blueprint for its continuing evolution. In the long run, it could be even more valuable than the few billion dollars worth of tax incentives Amazon is getting in New York and Virginia.

Its hard to get away from thinking of Amazon as a retail company, because thats how most people encounter it: by shopping on its website or app, or by asking Alexa to place an order. But if Amazon specializes in anything now, its infrastructure. It has more than 250 facilities around the country, mostly hidden in plain sight, so that half the population lives within a short drive of one of its warehouses. It has an extensive shipping operation, which has started competing for UPS and FedEx customers in California. And it stores a vast share of corporate Americas data, including that of Netflix and Comcast, with its cloud-computing service. As Stacy Mitchell, an activist with the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, has been arguing for several years, the company is making it increasingly hard for any of its competitors, large or small, to reach customers without going through Amazon channels.

The trove of data Amazon has gathered could guide it in its expansion of the physical footprint, in the kinds of services it rolls out next, and in future negotiations and lobbying with states and municipalities.

The company opened its bidding process late last year, when it announced it was looking for a place to put a second headquarters, since the company already occupied a fifth of the prime office space in Seattle. In exchange for bringing as many as 50,000 jobs, it wanted big incentives  so big that it encouraged states to rewrite their laws on its behalf. But Amazon also requested a great deal of information on each place: on the workforce and wages, cost of living, housing, transit, traffic congestion, crime rates, and education, down to the level of computer-science training in K-12 schools.

Judging from the ones that have been released publicly, most cities gave Amazon even more than it asked for. Reading Bostons 109-page PDF, for instance, the company could have learned a great deal about real-estate developments that were in the works, from a biomed facility in the former Boston Flower Exchange to a 300,000-square-foot shopping and residential project in Allston, along with plans to extend subway lines to accommodate the new businesses.

Once the company had narrowed its list to 20, it asked the final contenders for more information, such as standardized-test scores for local high-school graduates, annual festivals, and weekend travel destinations, plus the average cost of items like a movie ticket, a tall Starbucks coffee, a YMCA membership, and a gallon of gas.

Granted, much of this information was already in the public domain, and now most of the bids are available for download. But in some places, Amazon did receive proprietary information. Thirty cities denied FOIA requests for their bids, and many others redacted theirs heavily before releasing them. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership said it had hundreds of pages of proprietary information that it didnt want to release. Chicago fought an FOIA request in court and won. Amazon also said it would ask applicants to sign nondisclosure agreements in some cases. Unlike local governments, chambers of commerce, which handled many of the bids, dont have to tell the public about their negotiations. Sometimes even city officials werent privy.

Moreover, collecting this amount of information on hundreds of cities would have been a colossal and expensive undertaking, and the company effectively outsourced it. Nevada, for instance, spent more than $31,000 researching and compiling its bid. And even if other companies have access to it now, theyre not positioned to capitalize on it in the same way Amazon is, said Mitchell, the activist. Only Amazon has the scale of expansion where this matters, she said. That gives it this inherent competitive advantage. Essentially, you have cities across the country abetting Amazons monopoly, even as its exerting an incredible undertow on their local economy.

When it announced it was dividing HQ2 between two of the three largest cities on the East Coast, New York City and Greater Washington, D.C., it was obvious that all the other cities had been scammed. The general assumption was that Amazon had used the others to apply competitive pressure and extract the biggest possible tax incentives. But this alone doesnt explain its strategy, because it didnt need dozens, let alone hundreds, of bids to apply that pressure, said Joseph Parilla, an analyst with the Brookings Institution.

In fairness, the company was clear from the start about its preferences: a population of at least 1 million, direct access to public transit, and an international airport within 45 minutes, among other accommodations. This immediately culled the list of eligible cities to about 50, Parilla said. But Amazon didnt discourage cities like Gary, Indiana, or Albany from submitting bids. Some observers, such as the urban theorist Richard Florida, have suggested data collection was the purpose all along.

Not everyone is convinced of the value of the data. Juozas Kaziukenas, founder of the research firm Marketplace Pulse, doubts that the data is consistent or systematic enough among the many applicants to be used by algorithms or artificial intelligence. To do anything with data, you typically need a lot of it, Kaziukenas said in a phone interview. The data they got is disjointed and of varying quality.

However, Parilla thinks the most important material Amazon collected goes beyond mere numbers. Its this soft data  that I, as an analyst, would love to have, he said. For instance, what are the current and planned partnerships or investments that these regions are planning, that will matter to Amazon? He also cited STEM partnerships, plans to increase the supply of housing, concerns about affordability, and the kinds of incentives governments might give when Amazon wants to negotiate future development projects. The bids also gave Amazon clues about competence and efficiency, and about how well local governments cooperate with one another  or dont, as in the case of D.C., Virginia, and Maryland, which submitted separate bids, even though all they touch a single metropolitan area.

Picturing how Amazon might use all this material requires a little imagination. For retail purposes alone, it could help on the marketing front. Scott Galloway, an NYU marketing professor who wrote a book on how the biggest tech companies have embedded themselves into American life, believes the data might even give Amazon a springboard into new industries. Which city has a pipeline of young educated talent earning high salaries and also has affordable housing? he wrote in an email. Introducing Prime mortgages. Where are the top hospitals? Introducing Prime health.

Meanwhile, all that real-estate information will surely help as the companys physical footprint keeps expanding. Amazon has floated a plan to open as many as 3,000 cashierless convenience stores by 2021  a startling number for such a short timeline, given that it took Starbucks several decades to open its 14,000 stores. Its also building more Prime Now hubs, which allow it to deliver items within two hours of when theyre ordered. The city reports could help it choose the best locations, both in terms of which neighborhoods are gentrifying and which cities will give it the best incentives.

And then theres Amazons shipping business, of which its 140 or so warehouses are just the beginning. It announced in the spring that it was building an air-cargo hub at Cincinnatis airport, where it would keep a fleet of 100 Prime-branded planes. On the ground, its increasingly relying on its own vans and drivers instead of paying third parties, like the U.S. Postal Service, to make its deliveries.

In the early 2000s, industry analysts started referring to the Walmart effect, where the company controlled such a big share of the grocery market that it could force its suppliers to lower wholesale rates to levels they could barely afford. Theres a corollary Amazon effect, which goes much farther: Companies as large as Levi Strauss and KitchenAid now have no choice but to sell on its platform, which means communicating with customers only through Amazons messaging service, in most cases using the companys shipping service and warehouses and paying it fees for every sale.

Mitchell and a colleague laid out this pattern in an exhaustive 2016 report. Amazons ultimate vision, they believe, is to situate itself between the public and any other companies that might produce or sell goods. In effect, Amazon is turning an open, public marketplace into a privately controlled one, they wrote. It would be as if Walmart owned most of our malls and Main Streets, decided the terms by which its rivals could rent these spaces, and oversaw every sale they made. So far, Amazon controls about 49 percent of online retail, and 5 percent of all retail  and those figures are inching up every year.

Meanwhile, on its drive to become almost a para-governmental institution, Amazon has always relied on help from actual governments to gain advantages over its competitors, as Mitchells colleague, Olivia LaVecchia, pointed out last year. In the past, that has included getting a pass on sales tax and securing big incentives when it builds new facilities. Outsourcing Amazons reconnaissance was just the latest example.A gang of dacoits have looted ornaments estimated to be valued at Rs 1 crore from the Sri Rani Sati Dadi Mandir here in Jamtara district, police said on Monday.

Around eight armed dacoits confined the temple priest on Sunday night and took away ornaments including gold chains, silver umbrellas, silver padukas, ear rings, nose rings, and gold bangles studded with diamond.

The dacoits, who have hidden some silver ornaments in mud under a road bridge, was recovered, police said adding that a hunt was launched to apprehend the culprits.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Hitting back at Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's "Nizam" barb at him, AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi has said India is his father's country and no one is running away.

Addressing a poll rally here Sunday night, he also said Adityanath was speaking the language of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and that of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and he was ignorant about history.

The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief was reacting to Adityanath's comments at a rally in poll-bound Telangana that he would have to "run away" from Hyderabad, just like the Nizam, if the BJP came to power in the southern state.

"If the BJP forms the government in Telangana, I can tell you that Owaisi will have to run away, just like the Nizam was compelled to run away from Hyderabad.

"The BJP will give security to all, but will not allow those who spread anarchy," Adityanath had said.

Hitting back at him, Asaduddin said, "Yogi says if the BJP comes to power in Telangana, Owaisi will be made to run away like the Nizam. The first thing, you (Adityanath) are zero in history. If you cannot read, ask the literate...

"Had you read (history), you would have known that the Nizam did not leave Hyderabad and Mir Osman Ali Khan was made the 'Raj Pramukh', and when there was a war with China, the same Nizam had given his gold. You are saying the Nizam had run away...he did not run away."



The Hyderabad MP added that if Adityanath was willing, he could come with him to the Nizam's grave and offer flowers.

"But will you come? You may ask to change the name of the grave also," he said, mocking Adityanath's plans to rename places in Uttar Pradesh.

"Yogi, you are a chief minister...speak like a chief minister...In your constituency, hundreds of children are dying every year due to encephalitis...There is no oxygen in the hospitals of Gorakhpur, you are not worried about that. You are coming here and talking about building walls of hatred...This is Narendra Modi and his party's language...and Narendra Modi's mentality, Asaduddin added.

Adityanath is a five-time former MP from Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh. He is currently a member of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council.

The AIMIM chief also asserted that no one was running away.

"You talk about chasing away an MP. It is my religious belief that when Prophet Adam had descended on earth from paradise, he had come to Hindustan. This Hindustan is my father's country and no one can remove me from here.

"Hindustan mere abba ka mulk hai...Hindustan mere daddy ka mulk hai...Hindustan mere papa ka mulk hai...Hindustan mere pitaji ka mulk hai," he said.

"Will you drive me away?," Asaduddin asked.

"Uttar Pradesh chief minister, is this country yours? Not mine? For speaking against the BJP and Modi and criticising their policies, for speaking against the RSS...and for speaking on Yogi, will you throw me away from the country?.

"We feel pride in calling ourselves Hindustanis, but you say you will make Owaisi run away," he said.

"Allah will defeat Modi...Allah will insult Naidu (Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu)...Allah will defeat Rahul (Congress president Rahul Gandhi) and Allah will ensure the Majlis's victory," Asaduddin added.

The AIMIM chief's brother, Akbaruddin Owaisi, also criticised Adityanath over his remarks and said, "One more came...what kind of an attire does he wear...he became a chief minister by luck and he is saying like the Nizam, he will make Owaisi run away.

"Who are you? What is your status? Like you, 56 (a reference to Modi's 56-inch chest remark, made during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls) came and went away. Leave Owaisi...Owaisi's 1,000 (future) generations will stay in this country and fight it out with you. We will drive you away. We are not among those who run away."



"Did I run away? (Vijay) Mallya, Lalit Modi and (Mehul) Choksi ran away to London. If I was to run away, I would not have returned here from London.

"Did I come back from London or not?. Will I run away?...This country is not someone's father's property. This is my country and will always be mine and I will not leave Hyderabad," the MLA from Chandrayangutta said.

"If you have the courage, come to Hyderabad and we will show you how to run away," he added.

The 119-member Telangana Assembly will go to polls on December 7 and the results will be announced on December 11.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims.

The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the

Since the border crossing could be an easy target for "terrorists, human traffickers and drug dealers", a strong mechanism was required to keep the situation under control on both sides of the border, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Deputy Director (Punjab) Mufakhar Adeel said.

"The FIA has set up an immigration office at Kartarpur border in Narowal (some 120 kms from Lahore) in connection with the opening of Kartarpur corridor," Adeel told Dawn news.

"The FIA officers will play the role of boarding officers and check the documents of Sikh pilgrims and identify them through biometric technology. Sikh pilgrims having visas will be allowed to enter the city while those with permits will be given access to Gurudwara Darbar Sahib only," he said.

On November 28, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of the

On November 26, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Sahib corridor in Gurdaspur.

Khan said that his government and the army wanted a "civilised relationship" with India, declaring that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step.

Khan cited examples of France and Germany which fought many wars but eventually came closer for the welfare of their people.

ALSO READ: SAD attacks Sidhu for posing with Khalistani separatist in Kartarpur

assured that it will keep improving the and provide maximum facilities to the pilgrims when they visit in November, 2019 to celebrate Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary.

The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev.

The corridor is expected to be completed within six months.NCP chief Sharad Pawar set tongues wagging Monday after meeting former Congress leader Narayan Rane amid speculation over the latter's possible return to the opposition-fold ahead of the 2019 general elections.

Pawar, who is currently touring Sindhudurg district in the coastal Konkan region of Maharashtra, visited the Kankavli residence of Rane, a Rajya Sabha member backed by the BJP.

Rane, former chief minister, quit the Congress in September last year and floated a new party, the Maharashtra Swabhimani Paksha.

While both Pawar and Rane maintained it was a "courtesy" meeting, sources in the NCP said the party was exploring the option of fielding the Konkan leader from the Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg Lok Sabha constituency.

"Had a courtesy meeting with president of Maharashtra Swabhiman Paksha @MeNarayanRane. Could discuss with him on several issues candidly," Pawar tweeted.

Rane told PTI that the meeting lasted for just over five minutes and suggested no political interference be drawn out of it.

"He (Pawar) just had coconut water...there was no such discussion (on switching to the opposition fold) during the meeting. I am not discussing anything with anyone," Rane said.

However, an NCP source said an "informal discussion" was held during the meeting on the current political scenario. "A few more meetings between the two leaders may follow," the source said.

According to NCP sources, Rane was upset with the BJP extending an olive branch to its alliance partner Shiv Sena ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. Rane had left the Sena on a bitter note in 2005.

They also pointed to Rane's recent criticism of the BJP-led central government over a range of issues.

"The BJP cajoling the Shiv Sena is not something that will go down well with Rane as he does not enjoy a good rapport with the Shiv Sena," a source said.

The Congress, which is in seat-sharing talks (for the Lok Sabha polls) with other like-minded parties, including the NCP, lacks a strong candidate to field from the seat, being represented by Shiv Sena's Vinayak Raut, he added.

"The NCP also does not have a strong candidate there, so fielding Rane is a good option because of his winnability," the source said.

It was unlikely that Rane would go back to the Shiv Sena or the Congress, the source added.

Asked about the meeting, Rane's MLA son Nitesh, who too was present when the two senior leaders met, said, "He (Pawar) was heading towards Ratnagiri from Kankavli. He said he would come for tea, so he did.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)NCP chief Sharad Pawar set tongues wagging Monday after he met former Congress leader Narayan Rane amid the speculation of the latter's possible return to the opposition-fold ahead of the 2019 general election.

Pawar, who is currently touring Sindhudurg district in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, visited former chief minister Rane's residence in Kankavli.

Rane, who has a strong support base in the Konkan region, had quit the Congress in September last year and floated a new party -- the Maharashtra Swabhimani Paksha. He is currently a Rajya Sabha member backed by the ruling BJP.

Asked about the meeting, Rane's MLA son Nitesh, who too was present when the two senior leaders met, called it a "courtesy visit".

"He (Pawar) was heading towards Ratnagiri from Kankavli. He said he would come for tea, so he did," the legislator said, refusing to divulge any details.

However, a source said, "An informal discussion was held during the meeting on the current political scenario. Few more meetings between the two leaders may follow."



According to sources in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), the option of fielding Rane from the Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg Lok Sabha constituency on a party ticket was currently being explored.

They claimed that Rane was upset with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) extending an olive branch to its alliance partner Shiv Sena ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. Rane had left the Sena on a bitter note in 2005.

The sources also referred to Rane's latest criticism of the BJP-led central government over a range of issues.

"The BJP cajoling the Shiv Sena is not something that will go down well with Rane as he does not enjoy a good rapport with the Shiv Sena," a source said.

The Congress, which is in seat-sharing (for the LS polls) talks with other like-minded parties, including the NCP, does not have a strong candidate to field from the Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg seat, currently represented in Parliament by Shiv Sena's Vinayak Raut, he added.

"The NCP too does not have a strong candidate there, but fielding Rane is a good option because of his winnability," the source said.

Given the practical reality, it was unlikely that Rane would go back to the Shiv Sena or the Congress, but could very well join the NCP, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Punjab Cabinet Monday noted the "persistent efforts" of Chief Minister Amarinder Singh in raising the matter pertaining to the opening of the Kartarpur corridor.

The cabinet, in a meeting on Monday, under the chairmanship of Singh, also passed a special resolution hailing the building of the corridor as a "historic step".

The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district.

On November 26, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur corridor at Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur.

A spokesperson said the cabinet noted the "persistent efforts" by Singh, which had culminated in the momentous decision to open the corridor.

After the meeting, state minister for Housing and Rural Development Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa told reporters that it was Amarinder Singh who raised the Kartarpur corridor issue when he went to Pakistan in 2002.

"In 2002, Amarinder Singh went to Nankana Sahib in Pakistan where he raised the issue of Kartarpur corridor," he said.

Bajwa, an Amarinder Singh loyalist, also said then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and his successor Manmohan Singh had also taken up the issue of opening of Kartarpur corridor.

When reporters pointed out that Punjab Cabinet minister Navjot Singh Sidhu too had pitched for the opening of Kartarpur corridor, Bajwa said, "The media is suffering from Sidhu phobia. He (Sidhu) is one of crores of people who used to pray for Kartarpur corridor."



Expressing doubt over the building of corridor by the Pakistan government, he said, "The kind of statements Pakistan ministers, like their foreign minister, are making, it is yet not certain that it (corridor) will become a reality."



Notably, Sidhu had earlier raised the Kartarpur corridor issue with External Affairs minister Sushma Swaraj.

He courted controversy by hugging Pakistan army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa during his visit to Islamabad to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Imran Khan as that country's premier in August. Sidhu had claimed that the Pakistan Army chief had told him about "making efforts to open the Kartarpur corridor."



The spokesperson said the laying of the foundation stone for the corridor paved the way for devotees to visit the historic Kartarpur Gurdwara in Pakistan, a long-pending demand of the Punjabis.

The Punjab council of ministers passed another special resolution to set up a Dera Baba Nanak Development Authority for the development and beautification of the area in and around Dera Baba Nanak ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism.

"For the development of 13 villages of Dera Baba Nanak, a development authority will be set up. This authority will be under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Amarinder Singh with local MLA, MP and the housing minister being the members," Bajwa said.

The chief minister has already announced a slew of development projects to upgrade infrastructure and other facilities for the pilgrims expected to visit the area during the of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, for which year-long celebrations were kicked off by the Punjab government on November 23.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A petition was filed Monday in the Bombay High Court challenging the Maharashtra government's decision to grant 16 per cent reservation in education and government jobs to the Maratha community.

Advocate Gunaratan Sadavarte, appearing for petitioner Jayashree Patil, claimed the state government's decision was violative of Supreme Court orders which says that reservation in any state should not exceed 50 per cent.

Sadavarte is likely to mention the petition before a division bench of Chief Justice N H Patil and Justice M S Karnik on December 6.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government, on December 1, filed a caveat petition in the high court anticipating challenge to the legislation.

The caveat petition has prayed that no order shall be passed in any petition concerning the Maratha reservation legislation without first hearing the state government.

On November 29, the Maharashtra legislature passed a bill granting 16 per cent reservation in education and government jobs for the Maratha community under the socially and educationally backward category (SEBC).

This 16 per cent quota will be in addition to the existing 52 per cent reservation for other groups, taking the total percentage in the state to 68 per cent.

The bill was approved and signed by the Maharashtra governor on November 30.

In June last year, the State Backward Class Commission was asked to study the social, financial and educational status of the Maratha community. The commission submitted its report to the government last month.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Postgraduate Diploma in Business Analytics (PGDBA) programme offered jointly by three premier institutions in West Bengal, including IIT Kharagpur, has been ranked first in the country and the second place in Asia in the business analytics category by a university rating organisation.

The two other institutions are IIM Calcutta and Indian Statistical Institute(ISI).

The course has also been ranked 14th globally in the business analytics category by QS World University Rankings, an IIT Kharagpur statement said Monday.

The QS World University Rankings is an annual publication of university rankings by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS).

The QS system names the world's top universities for the study of 48 subjects and five composite faculty areas, alongside five independent regional tables, including Asia.

The ranking shows how collaboration among the best institutions can really make a top-notch programme, Prof. P P Chakrabarti, Director IIT Kharagpur, was quoted having said in the statement.

PGDBA is a two-year full-time residential diploma programme aimed at creating business analytics professionals, employable by leading Indian and foreign firms.

Dean, Postgraduate Studies and Research at IIT KGP Prof. P K Das, said the programme is designed for those who have an analytical mindset, are interested in tackling challenging business problems and possess an inclination towards mathematics.

"While coursework at IIM Calcutta focuses on the application of analytics in functional areas, ISI brings to the table its expertise in statistical and machine learning theories for analytics



"The faculty at IIT Kharagpur engages with the technology aspects of analytics in addition to offering electives in management domain with focus on application of analytics in functional areas," Dean, Vinod Gupta School of Management, IIT KGP, Prof. Prabina Rajib said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Centre Monday retracted last week's statement to the Supreme Court that it was ready to appoint an independent agency for public hearings in Chhattisgarh and Odisha on the Indira Sagar Polavaram Project on the Godavari river in Andhra Pradesh.

In an affidavit filed before a bench of Justices Madan B Lokur, S Abdul Nazeer and Deepak Gupta, the government has said that statement given on November 29 before the court was "inadvertently communicated" to the counsel appearing on its behalf.

"The inadvertent communication, made without obtaining instructions from senior officers, to the counsel may kindly be considered and condoned," the Centre said in its affidavit.

On November 29, the bench had noted in its order that the "counsel appearing for the Union of India, on instructions received in court today, says that the Union of India is prepared to appoint an independence agency to conduct a public hearing in the above two states (Chhattisgarh and Odisha)".

During the hearing in the matter on Monday, the Centre's counsel told the bench that holding public hearing on the issue was basically the responsibility of states.

"If it is the view of the Union of India, what is to be done," Justice Lokur observed while referring to the affidavit.

When the Centre said Chhattisgarh and Odisha should be asked the conduct public hearings, the bench said, "They (states) are saying they cannot do it unless you disclose all the facts."



The Centre's counsel said Odisha and Chhattisgarh were told repeatedly to hold public hearings but they are not willing to do so.

The advocates appearing for Chhattisgarh and Odisha said they do not even know what were the areas in their respective states which would be submerged due to the Polavaram project.

It is a multi-purpose irrigation project which has been accorded the status of a national project.

The project is under construction in West Godavari District and East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh and its reservoir spreads to parts of Chhattisgarh and Odisha.

The bench asked both Chhattisgarh and Odisha to categorically give a list of information which they want from the Centre.

The bench asked the Centre to inform it whether they would supply the information, as asked by both the states, and posted the matter for hearing in first week of January.

On November 29, the Centre and Andhra Pradesh had told the bench that there were no changes in the Polavaram project.

The clearance of the project was cancelled by the National Appellate Authority in 2007 but the Andhra Pradesh High Court had stayed it as an interim measure.

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change had given a direction to stop the construction work of the project on February 8, 2011, but had later kept its own order in abeyance.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A man has been arrested for allegedly running an illegal arms factory at his house in northeast Delhi's Karwal Nagar, while another person has been held on the charge of buying weapons from him, police said Monday.

The accused have been identified as Iqbal, a native of Bulandshahr district in Uttar Pradesh, and Raj Kartik, a resident of Delhi's Madangir, they said.

Based on a tip-off, the Delhi Police's Crime Branch laid a trap near Ram Prastha crossing bus stand on November 27 arrested Iqbal, a senior police officer said.

A semi-automatic carbine, a sophisticated semi-automatic pistol and seven live cartridges were seized from him, the officer said.

During interrogation, Iqbal said that he used to obtained raw materials from local markets and assembled them at his residence. The accused used to supply those to criminals operating in NCR and adjoining states, Deputy Commissioner of Police (crime) G Ram Gopal Naik said.

Iqbal has, so far, supplied more than 25 carbines, 50 semi-automatic pistols and more than 100 country-made pistols to several criminals in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, he said.

Based on Iqbal's revelation, his residence at Shakti Vihar in Karawal Nagar was raided and the illegal arms factory was busted, the officer said.

Three country-made pistols along with six live rounds and two used rounds were found during the raid. Raw materials including springs, barrels, magazines, several unfinished and semi-finished firearms and instruments used in manufacturing those were seized, he said.

Investigation revealed that Iqbal used to sell semiautomatic carbine for Rs one lakh to Rs 1.5 Lakh, semi-automatic pistol for Rs 30,00 to 40,000 and country made pistols were sold for Rs 5,000 each, the DCP said.

Subsequently, Raj Kartik was apprehended from near Chirag Delhi on December 1 and one semi automatic pistol along with three live cartridges, sold to him by Iqbal, were seized from him, he said.

Kartik was a member of a gang run by his distant relative Shakti Naidu, who along with his accomplices were arrested in connection with a dacoity of Rs 8 crore near Moolchand flyover, the officer said.

After a while, Kartik split from Shakti Naidu gang and joined Rohit Chaudhary gang, he said.

According to police, Iqbal was arrested in 2014 as well and had made contacts with various criminals of Delhi-NCR who demanded weapons from him.

After coming out of jail, he started supplying them weapons as per their demands, police said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Could Kris Kobach Be Trump's Next DHS Secretary? A DHS Secretary as scary as the boss. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images

Its no secret that the president would like to hand an anvil to his current Secretary of Homeland Security, Kirstjen Nielsen, and point her to the nearest cliff. Its unclear whether his beef with her is strictly personal (perhaps she is not tall enough for his approval), is performance-based, or is simply a product of her responsibility to inform him now and then of inconvenient laws and regulations that inhibit him from straddling the U.S.-Mexico border like a colossus. He has famously been abusive towards her in Cabinet meetings. And according to the Washington Post, he could fire her or she could resign almost any day.

Its also pretty clear who Trump would like to put in charge of DHS if he had his druthers. He dropped this pretty big hint at a rally in Kansas in October:

I hated that he ran because I would have loved to have brought him into my administration. In fact, if he loses, Ill bring him into my administration. I hope he loses, because I want him so badly. said the president.

He and him are Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach, the close Trump ally and world-class nativist who turned down earlier Trump job offers in order to run for governor of his state. He did indeed lose, and so is now available for duty in Washington. His two chief qualifications are: clearly established loyalty to Trump (he endorsed him pretty early in 2016, and ran his ill-fated Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity as vice chairman before it was disbanded when states refused to hand over confidential voter data), and a bad attitude about immigration that rivals Trumps own. (Kobach, among other things, was the architect of Arizonas infamous S.B. 1070, the so-called show your papers law mostly struck down by the Supreme Court in 2012.)

Kobachs right-wing fan base has ginned up a White House petition urging Trump to replace Nielsen with Kobach, which Breitbart News is promoting:

Trump is rumored to be replacing Nielsen by the new year, as he and allies of his America First have continuously expressed disappointment and rage [sic!] at her leadership of DHS over the last year, sources have said.

Kobach has dedicated much of his career to combatting illegal immigration, being one of only a handful of elected Republicans who recognize the downward wage pressure on U.S. workers created by the annual importation of more than 1.5 million mostly low-skilled immigrants.

In some of his most recent Breitbart News columns, Kobach has advocated for stopping mass illegal immigration at the southern border and a migrant caravan of 7,000 to 10,000 Central Americans by enlisting state and local police to aid federal immigration officials.

Yes, hes all over the migrant caravan, too. Short of Steve King, theres no major figure in public life Trump can choose for DHS that would more clearly signal he means business on the border, law and constitution be damned.

Trouble is, the very characteristics that make Kobach beloved to Breitbart News (whose former chairman Steve Bannon reportedly got Kobach involved in designing a very controversial citizenship question for the 2020 census) and to Trump make him anathema to most Democrats and a nasty piece of work to many Republicans. He lost the Kansas governors race in part because of conspicuous Republican defections to Democrat Laura Kelly. And FiveThirtyEights Perry Bacon, Jr., suggests that a confirmation vote on Kobach could energize a new Senate rebellion against Trumps more extremist tendencies, encompassing Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski plus new senator Mitt Romney and vulnerable 2020 target Cory Gardner.

Its entirely possible Trump will either learn to live with Nielsen or find a less inflammatory successor, consigning Kobach to an informal advisor role while occasionally making goo-goo eyes at him when an appropriate post comes open. But if hes in the mood to test the loyalty of a Republican Party that has largely surrendered to his arbitrary will, then look out! Secretary Kobach, with 240,000 employees and a $60 billion budget, could be in the wings.Police foiled a weapon snatching bid in Baramulla and Srinagar districts of Jammu and Kashmir by arresting eight over-ground workers (OGWs).

Based on a credible input that some over-ground workers were planning to snatch weapons from policemen on duty, eight OGW were picked up by police from Baramulla, Tangmarg and Srinagar areas, a police official said.

He said a case was registered and an investigation was underway.

"During investigation, some recovery of arms and ammunition has been made with the assistance of other security forces, including the CRPF and Army," the official said without giving further details.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, the first-ever Indian-American woman to be elected to the House of Representatives, has appointed Gautam Raghavan, a former White House official, as her chief of staff.

Jayapal, a national leader of the progressive movement, who has made a mark on immigration and rights-related issues, was last month re-elected to the House of Representatives for her second term from the Washington state.

Raghavan currently serves as executive director of the Indian American Impact Project & Fund. He is also an adviser to the Biden Foundation.

A former Obama White House official and political consultant, Raghavan led IMPACT through a historic election cycle in which an unprecedented number of Indian-Americans ran for office at the federal and state level. He will continue to serve on IMPACT's boards of directors, a media release said.

From 2011 to 2014, Raghavan served as President Barack Obama's liaison to the LGBTQ community as well as the Asian-American & Pacific Islander community.

From 2009 to 2011, he was acting White House Liaison for the US Department of Defense and as outreach lead for the Pentagon's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Working Group.

A first-generation immigrant, Raghavan was born in India, raised in the Seattle area and he graduated from Stanford University.

"Since joining Congress, Jayapal quickly established herself as a bold, unapologetic, national voice for progressive values. With so much at stake, I can think of no better place to fight for a more just, fair, and prosperous future than at her side," Raghavan said.

In a statement, Jayapal said her goals in the 116th Congress would continue to be stand for a bold, progressive agenda that ensures opportunity.

"The progressive movement has never been stronger, and I look forward to translating that into real wins for working people, women, immigrants, those living in poverty and the most marginalised," she said.

"I'm thrilled to have Gautam, a fellow Seattleite, joining our exceptional team. I know his experience and leadership will continue guiding our office as we fight for real progressive change in Washington and across our country in hopes of creating a fairer and more just country," Jayapal said.

"As our founding executive director, Gautam has worked tirelessly to raise the visibility of our organisation, our community, and our leaders," said Raj Goyle, co-founder of IMPACT and chair of the Impact Project.

"While we're sad to lose him, we are thrilled that he will be a top adviser to Congresswoman Jayapal, one of the most prominent Indian-Americans in elected office today. This kind of talent pipeline is why IMPACT exists," Goyle said.

"Under Gautam's leadership, Impact Fund endorsed over 20 candidates and deployed more funds for Indian-American candidates than any political organisation in history," Deepak Raj, co-founder of IMPACT and chair of the Impact Fund, said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The netting of a dead carnivorous fish native to North America in Pavana Dam near Pune has put the state Fisheries department on alert mode as its presence could adversely affect the bio-diversity of the water body.

Officials identified the fish caught in Pavana Dam, about 17 cm in length and weighing 2.5 kg, as the 'alligator gar', which is called so due to its resemblance to the American alligator, particularly the broad snout and long, sharp teeth.

"Upon being alerted about the catch last week by local fishermen, we took the view of fish experts who confirmed that it was the alligator gar. It is carnivorous and kills other fish in the water body it inhabits," said A M Gadwal, a section engineer at Pavana Dam.

"The experts told us that it is an exotic fish found exclusively in North America," Gadwal added.

Fisheries Development Officer Janak Bhosale confirmed the find and said the 'alligator gar' can adversely affect the bio-diversity of the water body as it tends to kill other fish for survival.

He said fishermen have been apprised of the issue and have been told to alert the Fisheries department if they come across these fish again.

Speaking on how the exotic fish might have found its way into Pavana Dam, Bhosale said, "It is possible someone may have brought this fish to keep in an aquarium. He may have later released it into Pavana Dam."



The fish, according to experts, can adapt to water bodies with different levels of salinity and is an ambush predator using stealth and strategy rather than speed to kill other fish.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)As Russia and India prepare to collaborate for Gaganyaan, India's man mission to space, its envoy Nikolay Kudashev said Monday the probability of Indian astronauts getting trained in his country are very high.

He said Russia will cooperate with India in the development of the rocket launcher for the project, the safety measures of the crew, communication and the preparation of the cosmonauts for the flight.

He hoped Russia's "extremely rich" experience in this mission will benefit India.

Responding to a question on whether Russia would train Indian astronauts, Kudashev said, "They are most welcome. I am sure, we will. Such a possibility was explored during the talks. The probability of Indian astronauts going to us and staying with us at the space city is very high."



The Star City is a town in Russia dedicated for training astronauts.

The envoy was interacting with reporters on the sidelines of an event, which was also attended by Rakesh Sharma, the first India to travel to space in 1984 using a Russian spacecraft.

Sharma exuded confidence that ISRO will be successful in the Gaganyaan project as it has in other missions.

He said although going to space has become safer than it was three decades ago, the physiological aspects have not changed and whatever training the astronauts will undergo will be relevant as earlier.

Sharma said the interest in astronomy and space is growing and if India "is going to be part of colonising the Moon first, and later perhaps, the Mars", it will need a corps of astronauts.

"It is a good career option which is now opening up. For this current generation, it is a very exciting future," he said.

India and Russia share a robust cooperation in the area of space. In October, during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India, the Indian Space Research Organisation and Roscosmos signed an agreement for cooperation on the Gaganyaan project.

In his Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India will send three Indians to the space by 2022.

In September, IRSO and French space agency CNES also signed an agreement to cooperate on the Gaganyaan project.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Punjab Cabinet Monday approved the setting up of a new international civil terminal at the Indian Air Force station at Halwara in Ludhiana district.

The civil terminal would be developed jointly by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Punjab government through a Joint Venture Company (JVC) to be constituted for the purpose.

While the AAI would have a majority stake of 51 per cent, the state government, through the Greater Ludhiana Development Authority, will have 49 per cent stake in the project, which is aimed to boost industrial activity in the state, according to an official spokesperson.

The cabinet, at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, also gave go-ahead for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the AAI for the same.

The decision of setting up the terminal fulfils an old demand of the state, which was first taken up by Singh with the central government during his previous tenure as chief minister.

The matter, however, remained in abeyance pending clearances from the Centre, the spokesperson said.

The state government would provide 135.54 acres of land free-of-cost to the JVC by way of its equity in the project.

The capital expenditure on development of the new airport would be borne by the AAI, whereas the expenditure on the operation, maintenance and repairs would be taken care of by the JVC.

According to the spokesperson, the first phase of the project, which will include development of a new international civil enclave over an area of 135.54 acres for full-fledged operations up to Code-4C type aircraft, is likely to be completed within three years.

The project, aimed at giving a fillip to the economic development of Punjab's business and industrial hub Ludhiana, also fulfils a long-pending demand of the Ludhiana-based industry, which the chief minister has now acceded.

Ludhiana is Punjab's largest industrial hub with a population of nearly two million, which is presently serviced by a small airport at Sahnewal under the operational control of the AAI, which runs RCS-UDAN flights to Delhi.

Ludhiana also has the advantage of being at the geographical centre of Punjab.

With the length of the runway at the present airport being limited, it only allows for operation of small aircraft which severely limits air connectivity.

Moreover, as the city has grown significantly around the airport, acquisition of additional land and expansion of the existing airport at Sahnewal is not feasible. Ludhiana has substantial export potential, which could be exploited with the growth of cargo traffic.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Punjab cabinet Monday decided to summon the next state assembly session from December 13 to 15.

A decision to this effect was taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh here, according to an official spokesman.

With the cabinet decision, the Punjab governor has been authorised to convene the sixth session of the 15th Punjab Vidhan Sabha, as per clause (1) of Article 174 of the Constitution of India.

A spokesperson said the session would commence on the afternoon of December 13 with obituary references. Legislative business would be transacted in both the morning and evening sessions on December 14.

The house would adjourn sine-die after the proposed legislative business on December 15, said the spokesperson.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Kerala government Monday moved the Supreme Court seeking transfer of pending pleas relating to the Sabarimala Temple from the High Court to the apex court, alleging that members of "right wing outfits" are obstructing the implementation of its verdict allowing all women inside the shrine.

On September 28, a five-judge Constitution bench, headed by the then Chief Justice Dipak Misra, in a 4:1 verdict had paved the way for entry of women of all ages into the temple, saying the ban amounted to gender discrimination.

The fresh plea has sought transfer of pending petitions and applications to the Supreme Court which is scheduled to hear on January 22 in open court the petitions seeking a review of its judgement.

"When the Sabarimala temple re-opened for 'pujas' for five days from October 17 onwards, the members of various organisations coming under the right-wing outfits, have collected in large numbers from Pampa onwards and they have openly declared that women between 10 to 50 years, who try to enter the Sabarimaala temple or even the Saranapatha that is the hill route from Pampa to Sannidhanam, will be physically obstructed. This declaration is the clear violations of the judgement of this court," the plea said.

The state government said it is "constitutionally bound" to ensure that the law laid down by the apex court is implemented.

It, however, alleged that petitions in the high court have been filed to prevent the state from implementing the judgement.

"At least five women, out of which two are working in media including that of New York Times, were physically obstructed and were threatened with physical danger when they tried to go to Sabarimala from Pampa," it said, while seeking the transfer of cases to the top court.

"When the temple again opened for a day on November 5, at that time, many political parties openly declared that they will not permit the alleged custom of the temple, banning entry of women from 10 to 50 years, to be broken inspite of the court's judgement," it alleged, adding that the attempt have been made to "politicise the entire issue".

Earlier, the Travancore Devaswom Board had moved the top court seeking more time to implement the verdict citing security issues and inadequate amenities.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Mumbai Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam Monday asked Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to sack Maharashtra Co-operation Minister Subhash Deshmukh in an alleged forgery case and sought that an FIR be registered against the minister.

Nirupam has in the past accused the minister of forging documents and fabricating permissions to get a contract for Lokmangal Multistate Co-operative Society's milk processing plant in Solapur. The co-operative society was founded by Deshmukh.

The minister has routinely denied these allegations in the past.

Nirupam had also charged the minister with duping the state of Rs 24 crore.

"Deshmukh's society has engaged in big corruption and I had unravelled it in a press conference. Since the corruption stood proved, the chief minister had ordered the society to return the Rs 5 crore grant," Nirupam claimed in a statement.

"However, the chief minister's order doesn't speak about registering an FIR. The chief minister himself is saving the corrupt minister," Nirupam alleged.

He said an FIR was registered in connection with this issue at Solapur police station on November 27 but it did not name Deshmukh, adding that it mentioned Deshmukh's son Rohan and eight directors of the society.

"We demand that the FIR must include Deshmukh's name as it is under him that the meetings of the society took place. He (Deshmukh) is the main accused and he should be removed from his post," Nirupam said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Maharashtra government to submit before it by December 8 the "gist" of allegations and the charge sheet filed against arrested rights activists in the Koregaon-Bhima violence case.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it wanted to see the "charges" against the accused, who are in jail since their arrest in June this year.

It asked senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the Maharashtra government, to submit the gist of allegations and the translated version of the charge sheet filed by the state police in a special court at Pune on or before December 8.

The bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, took note of the submission of senior lawyer Indira Jaising that the state police has foisted another criminal case on accused Surendra Pundlik Gadling and asked the state government to provide the details of that matter.

It said: "Charge-sheet filed against the accused - respondents along with translated copy thereof and a gist of the allegations made therein be filed on or before Saturday next that is December 8. The matter will be considered on Tuesday next that is December 11.

"Indira Jaising, senior counsel appearing for the accused respondent...Gadling submits that another case has been lodged against the said respondent Gadling. Particulars of the said case including the complaint/FIR, as may be, be also filed."



The top court was hearing an appeal of the state government against a Bombay High Court order refusing to extend the time limit of 90 days by another 90 days for filing the probe report in the violence case.

The apex court had earlier stayed the Bombay High Court order.

At the outset, Rohatgi on Monday assailed the High Court order setting aside the lower court's decision to grant 90 days more time to the police to probe and file the charge sheet in the case.

He said the statutory time limit for filing the charge sheet in heinous offences is 90 days and this period can be extended by another 90 days by the trial court if the investigating officer (IO) and the public Prosecutor move for the same.

"The offences alleged are grave and charges are serious and the High Court cannot reject such cases on technical grounds," Rohatgi said, adding that the accused do have to right to seek bail, but the plea of prosecuting agency and the police cannot be dismissed on technical aspects alone.

He also said in any case, the charge sheet in the matter has already been filed much before the expiry of 180 days.

The Bombay High Court had recently set aside the lower court's order allowing extension of time to police to file its probe report against the rights activists.

The apex court had earlier refused to interfere with the arrest of five rights activists by the Maharashtra Police in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima violence case and declined to appoint a SIT for probe into their arrest.

The Pune Police had arrested lawyer Surendra Gadling, Nagpur University professor Shoma Sen, Dalit activist Sudhir Dhawale, activist Mahesh Raut and Kerala native Rona Wilson in June for their alleged links with Maoists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

The arrests had followed raids at their residences and offices in connection with the Elgar Parishad conclave held in Pune on December 31 last year, which, the police claimed, had led to violence at Bhima Koregaon the next day.

The Maharashtra government had on October 25 moved the apex court challenging the Bombay High Court order by which the extension of time granted to state police to conclude probe in the violence case was set aside.

Earlier, lawyer Nishant Katneshwar, appearing for the Maharashtra government, had told the top court that if the high court order is not stayed then accused in the violence case would become entitled for grant of statutory bail for want of non-filing of charge sheet within the stipulated period.

Under the UAPA, a charge sheet must be filed within 90 days of arrest. However, the prosecutor can file a report before the trial court, explaining the reasons for the delay, and seek more time. If satisfied, the court can extend the time by 90 days.

In the present case, the Pune sessions court had granted the police the additional 90 days, following an application from the investigating officer (IO) and written submissions by an assistant commissioner of police (ACP).

Gadling had challenged this, saying the report and the submissions came from the police, not the prosecutor. Under the Act, the report should be filed by the prosecutor, he said.

The petition filed in the top court by the state government said the investigating officer had filed an application in the trial court under his signature giving reasons for extension of time on August 30, 2018.

"On the very same day, the public prosecutor submitted her report/application carving out the grounds for extension of time.The public prosecutor, by way of abundant precaution, took signature of the investigating officer. But the High Court was carried away by the fact of signature of the investigating officer and arrived at a conclusion that the report/application was not by the public prosecutor," the plea had said.

It had also said that the high court should not have been carried away by the fact of mentioning of names of parties in detail.The Supreme Court Monday dismissed a plea challenging the recent appointment of Justice Subramonium Prasad as an additional judge of the Madras High Court.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi refused to entertain the plea filed by M Radhakrishnan, saying there was no merit in the petition.

"We find no merit in any of the contentions raised in the special leave petition which would require a court to have any further look in the matter. The special leave petition is, accordingly, dismissed," said the bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph.

During the hearing, the bench sarcastically said, "We have made a wrong choice and the wrong choice has been acted upon by the President of India. And the concerned judge is now working. We will not do anything now."



The high court on June 11 had junked the PIL against the appointment of Justice Prasad, saying it cannot sit in an appeal over the decision of collegiums of the High Court or the Supreme Court.

Radhakrishnan, in his PIL, had contended that Justice Prasad has not practiced as an advocate either in the Madras High court or its subordinate courts for a minimum of 10 years as required.

Justice Subramonium Prasad was elevated as the additional judge of the court on June 4, along with six others.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Once and future Republican presidents. Photo: Cynthia Johnson/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty

George H.W. Bush, who died this weekend, was complicated and flawed, like most politicians. The normal pattern for any departed leader is to embrace and magnify their great qualities while learning from and discarding their errors. We admire Franklin Roosevelt primarily for the New Deal and Winston Churchill for World War II, respectively, not Japanese-American internment and imperialism.

Bush is a president whose historical memory is highly significant  probably more significant than his presidency itself. The unusual thing is that Bushs legacy has operated in a reverse of the normal historic pattern. His influence has made itself felt by discarding all his good works and embracing the bad.

The standard historical defense of Bush goes something like this: Bush won the presidency by running a disgraceful campaign of ethnonationalist demagoguery: Willie Horton, flag burning, and requiring the Pledge of Allegiance. But Bush proceeded to govern as a pragmatist, agreeing to a budget deal that included a small tax hike along with spending cuts and prosecuting the Gulf War to a successful resolution without occupying Iraq.

Conservatives have constructed a memory of these events that turns this interpretation on its head. The central figure in Republican mythology is Ronald Reagan, who is misremembered as the perfect orthodox conservative. Bush plays a secondary, but still crucial role, in this morality tale. He is the anti-Reagan, the ideological reprobate who violated the ideological canon by raising taxes and justly suffered as a result.

The factual basis for this myth is terribly confused. In reality, Reagan agreed to numerous tax increases, which were unavoidable as a result of the massive deficits his program of tax cuts and military buildup created. Bushs budget deal locked in the spending cuts that Reagan had tried and failed to obtain. Bush is the president who actually reduced the size of government. But the memory, rather than the reality, is what has guided the party in the decades since. Since the hated 1990 budget deal, zero Republican elected officials at the national level have agreed to support a tax increase, no matter how small and no matter what is offered in return. The whole ethos of compromise and empirically based governance has been comprehensively discredited.

The Wall Street Journal editorial memorializing the elder Bush is a useful summary of the prevailing Republican interpretation of the 41st president. It memorializes Bushs 1988 campaign, led by Lee Atwater and Roger Ailes, as a triumph for which the left never forgave him. On the flip side, in addition to dwelling on the hated tax hike, the Journal scolds Bush for failing to invade and occupy Iraq after the Gulf War  The blot on that victory was that he let Saddam Hussein stay in power  as if nobody has tried that and we have no idea how it would work.

A quarter-century has passed since Bush left office. His presidency represented the midpoint in a transformation that began with the Goldwater movement and has presently culminated in Donald Trump. Bushs opponent, Michael Dukakis, was public servant who respected the Constitution, and as a result opposed forcing schoolchildren to recite the Pledge of Allegiance (the voluntary practice of which he was happy to support) as well as prohibitions on burning the flag. Bush used both these honorable civil-libertarian stands to paint Dukakis as unpatriotic and effete, a product of the Harvard boutique. Likewise, he manipulated fear of rising crime, which was a legitimate policy issue, with the deliberately inflammatory primal symbolism of a black rapist.

Atwater, Bushs campaign manager, eventually apologized on his deathbed for a campaign based on manipulating white racial paranoia and questioning the patriotism of his opponent. Ailes, the unapologetic co-architect of that campaign, went on to create a propaganda network informed by the values of the 1988 campaign, in which white America was under constant siege by an unpatriotic brew of brown criminals and snooty liberal elites. It was Ailes to whom the future would belong.

Todays Republican Party reflects the lessons it has taught itself from the Bush era. Today the Republican Party is led by a man shaped in every way by Ailes. He warns of dark-skinned rapists coming for our women, and demanding compulsory displays of obeisance to the flag and disparaging all foes as weak and soft. His policy agenda is uncompromising anti-tax fanaticism, unrestrained by any sense of responsibility or pragmatism. Bushs legacy shaped his party as a cautionary tale, a leader whose forays into statesmanship constituted an error that would not be repeated.The headmaster of a private school near here allegedly beat a student for coming without wearing slippers as he was observing 'vratham' (austerities) for going on a pilgrimage to the Sabarimala Ayyappa shrine, triggering a protest by some Hindu outfits,police said Monday.

The parents of the ninth standard student were irked by the headmaster's action and complained to the department.

They accused the school head of not understanding the sentiment behind not wearing footwear, police said.

Police held talks with the family members of the student and the outfits, even as some locals supported the headmaster and sought action against those staging a protest.

Activists belonging to the outfits later dispersed.

Meanwhile, the headmaster saidschool rules do not permit students without footwear to enter and that he was following the rule.

department officials said they were looking into the matter.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A court Monday extended the CBI remand of two close aides of Brajesh Thakur, the prime accused in the Muzaffarpur shelter home sex scandal, by three days.

Special judge R P Tiwari, hearing cases filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, extended the CBI remand of Madhu Kumari, who managed many of Thakur's NGOs, newspapers and other businesses, and Ashwini -- a quack attached to the shelter home as a "doctor".

The two were arrested two weeks ago and have been in the custody of the central probe agency since November 21.

Media reports have alleged that Ashwini used to administer injections laced with sedatives to the inmates of the home with the help of Madhu, after which the girls would be subjected to sexual abuse.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which is probing the case, produced both Madhu and Ashwini in the POCSO court after the period of their remand expired Monday.

On the probe agency's request, the court extended their remand by three days.

The alleged sexual abuse of the inmates at the Balika Grih in the Sahu Road locality came to light following a social audit of Bihar's shelter homes by the Mumbai-based Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS).

An FIR was lodged on May 31 against 11 persons, including Thakur, who was running the shelter home.

As the issue rocked the state legislature and Parliament, a CBI inquiry was recommended by the Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government in July.

A fortnight later, state Social Welfare Minister Manju Verma stepped down following reports of close links between her husband Chandrashekhar Verma and Thakur.

Thakur, who was initially shifted to Bhagalpur in view of the fact that he was a "renowned citizen" and his presence in Muzaffarpur could come in the way of a fair probe, is currently lodged in a jail in Punjab's Patiala following a Supreme Court order.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)minister said Monday he would file a defamation case against a television channel for allegedly running a fake video about slogans purportedly in support of during his rally in Rajasthan's Alwar district two days ago.

He said the slogans were of 'jo bole so nihaal' and was shown as in favour of in the video.

"I am going to file a defamation case after consulting with my lawyer. I cannot compromise with the name I have earned," he told reporters at the office here.

Sidhu said he do not need to give any proof for loyalty towards Without clearly blaming the BJP, the minister said such things were done because his campaigning was getting "tremendous response".

Targeting the Narendra Modi government, Sidhu said he had raised questions related to farmers, minimum support price, at the rally.

But, there was no answer to them and instead such videos were broadcast, he added.The CBI on Monday requested a special court hearing the Sohrabuddin Shaikh alleged fake encounter case not to discard entirely the testimonies of prosecution witnesses who have turned hostile, even as the court said the CBI's theory and charge sheet are "riddled with unexplained gaps".

The Central Bureau of Investigation said that the killings of Sohrabuddin, his wife Kausar Bi and his aide Tulsiram Prajapati--in 2005 and 2006--were staged and if some defects exist in the prosecuting agency's probe, it can't be a ground in itself to grant benefit or acquittal to the accused.

A total of 92 out of 200 witnesses examined in the case have turned hostile.

Special public prosecutor BP Raju, who was making his final arguments on behalf of the CBI before Special Court Judge SJ Sharma here, said that it was "unfortunate" that so many important prosecution witnesses had turned hostile and gone back on their statements given to the CBI and the magistrate courts.

He argued that the Supreme Court had ruled in many instances that courts could take cognisance of the testimonies given by those witnesses who eventually turned hostile.

"It is unfortunate that so many witnesses turned hostile (in the Sohrabuddin Shaikh fake encounter case) but the court must not discard their testimonies entirely, especially the statements given to the CBI by Nathuba Jadeja and Gurdayal Singh. They are very important," Raju said.

Jadeja and Singh, both constables of Gujarat police, were the CBI's "star witnesses" in the case who turned hostile during the trial.

As per the CBI charge sheet, which was filed earlier, Sohrabuddin and Kausar Bi were abducted by the Gujarat ATS (Anti-Terrorism Squad) on November 26, 2005 when they were travelling to Sangli in Maharashtra from Hyderabad in a private bus along with Prajapati.

While Sohrabuddin was killed near Ahmedabad some days after abduction, Kausar Bi met the same fate on November 29.

Prajapati, who was a witness to the incident, was allegedly killed by the Rajasthan and Gujarat police a year later (2006) in another fake encounter, as per the chargesheet.

While Raju said that all the three were killed in fake encounters, Judge Sharma said, "The CBI's theory and its charge sheet were riddled with unexplained gaps".

Prajapati's presence on the bus, in which Sohrabuddin and his wife were travelling, was not mentioned by any complainant, witnesses or probe agencies until 2010, when the CBI took over the probe from the Gujarat CID (Crime Investigation Department), the judge said.

"Sohrabuddin Shaikh's brother Rubabuddin wrote a letter to the Supreme Court and filed a writ petition in the Bombay high court in 2006. However, he did not even whisper about Prajapati. The Gujarat police and the CID that initially probed the case made no mention of Prajapati being present at the site, or witnessing the incident.

"So what dots did the CBI join to conclude that he was the third person travelling with Sohrabuddin and his wife on that bus?" the judge asked.

The judge also noted that the CBI chargesheet was "silent" on Prajapati's whereabouts some hours before he was killed in the alleged fake encounter in December 2006.

At this, Raju said he was admitting of some "lacunae" in the CBI probe. "However, these questions were for the Gujarat police to answer as the latter had probed the case initially," he said.

"There are several judgements of the Supreme Court which rule that even if some defects exist in the prosecuting agency's probe, such defects can't be a ground in itself to grant benefit or acquittal to the accused person," the special public prosecutor argued.

He said much of the CBI's case depended on circumstantial evidence and that he will accordingly submit previous rulings of the top court on such evidence, besides "other relevant judgements" before the special court Tuesday.

Defence lawyers for Gujarat police officers ML Parmar, Narsyansing Dabhi and Balkrishna Choubey--who are among the 22 people facing trial in the case--argued that the CBI's case was "not cogent and its evidence was not unimpeachable".

The defence's arguments are likely to continue on Tuesday.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A South Korean boy band, MONT, is set to perform for the first time in India on Tuesday, during the ongoing Hornbill International Music Festival (HIMF), organisers said on Monday.

The Korean band members have arrived at Dimapur, the media coordinator of HIMF, Kallol Dey, said.

Boney M and Kailash Kher performed in 2017 and this year it would be a treat for Korean Pop fans with the MONT set to take centre stage on December 4, he said.

The MONT is being touted as the next big name in the K-Pop world, he said, adding, the band impressed in Mix Nine, a South Korean survival reality show.

The Hornbill International Music Festival (HIMF), kicked off on Saturday, December 1, in Dimapur and it is a part of the Hornbill Festival.

The biggest draw of the music fest, the Hornbill International Rock Contest (HIRC), will be held between December 5 and December 8, the media coordinator of HIMF said.

The event went international in 2013 and with the Nagaland government keen on developing music as an industry, the Hornbill Festival has been promoted as a music destination over the years, with both international and national big names roped in to perform in every edition, Dey said.

The rock contest carries a cash award of Rs 10 lakh for the winner and Rs 5 lakh and Rs 3.5 lakh for the first and second runners-up respectively, he said.

A total of 24 bands, including five from Nagaland, will contest in this edition, he said.

The penultimate day of the festival, December 9, will feature Soulmate, a Shillong-based blues band, he said.

With numerous national and international performances, Soulmate is a household name for fans of the genre, Dey said.

The 10-day music festival will culminate with Ukranian DJ Siana Catherine on the console, he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A Sri Lankan court Monday barred from acting as Prime Minister, in a major set back to President who had installed his former rival in place of in a controversial decision.

The Appeal Court issued notice and an interim order against Rajapaksa and his Government, preventing them from acting as Prime Minister, Cabinet and Deputy Ministers, Colombo Gazette reported.

The order was issued in a Quo Warranto case filed by 122 MPs against Rajapaksa and his Government.

Lanka is witnessing a political crisis since October 26 when President Sirisena sacked Wickeremesinghe and replaced him with Rajapaksa.

ALSO READ: Amid political crisis, Sri Lanka's largest party flags risk of debt default

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls.

ALSO READ: Sri Lankan crisis continues as legislators boycott parliamentary sessions

Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.

The UNF has moved three no trust motions against Rajapaksa, who has refused to step down.Sweden and India Monday signed two MoUs in the Renewable Energy sector to enhance the technology and bring in power efficiency.

The first MoU was signed between Swedish firm Spowdi and EMVEE for setting up local manufacturing and assembly unit in Bangalore.

The second MoU was inked between Swedish Neutral and Tata Power DDL for setting up pilot for earth fault protection in Delhi, Embassy of Sweden said in a statement.

The MoUs were signed on the sidelines of inauguration of the 'Sustainability by Sweden Showroom India' by Swedish Energy, Agency Business Sweden and Embassy of Sweden under the Sweden India Nobel Memorial Programme, it said.

The showroom was inaugurated at Business Sweden here by A K Verma, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Power, Josa Karre, counsellor and head of economic affairs, Embassy of Sweden and Josephine Bahr Ljungdell - Director of International Affairs, Swedish Energy Agency.

India and Sweden share a long history of collaboration, which is guided by MoUs in the fields of energy, environment, science & technology and sustainable urban planning. To further strengthen the collaboration, this showroom has been set up in India as a next step towards bi-lateral programme - India Sweden Innovations Accelerator (ISIA), the statement said.

The showroom will present over 20 Swedish innovative technologies, which have been introduced and filtered through the dedicated ISIA programme. It has been recognised as the flagship programme to expand research, innovation and business cooperation on new energy technologies between India and Sweden.

"India is a growing country and equally contributing to the global Energy sector. Going further, there is a need to add renewables and sustainability solutions. We are looking forward to stronger India- Sweden association and programs to support innovations and new technologies," Verma said in the statement.

India and Sweden share the common objective on the need for innovation to cater to the growing need of sustainable and green energy. The India-Sweden Innovations' Accelerator (ISIA) programme is a part of intergovernmental cooperation between India and Sweden in the area of new and renewable energy technology, Swedish Energy Agency Country Head India Ludvig Lindstrom said.

The first exhibition at the showroom was themed as "Sustainability is Everybody's Business". It showcased how various innovative Swedish technologies introduced through ISIA programme, fit into the Indian context along with projects setup by Swedish companies in India.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The anti-jihadist international coalition in Syria said Sunday it had targeted in a strike an Islamic State group leader involved in the execution of American humanitarian worker Peter Kassig and other Western prisoners.

"The coalition forces carried out specific strikes against a high-ranking IS leader, Abou al Oumarayn... in the desert" in Syria, said Sean Ryan, spokesman for the US-led coalition.

The leader "was implicated in the murder of American citizen... Peter Kassig", kidnapped in Syria in 2013 and executed by decapitation in November 2014, he added.

He was also "directly implicated in the execution of a number of other prisoners", Ryan said, adding that coalition air strikes "continued to disrupt the command and control of IS on the battlefield".

Peter Kassig, aged 26 at the time of his death, founded a humanitarian organisation in 2012 and adopted the name Abdul Rahman after his conversion to Islam.

The international coalition intervened in Syria and Iraq in 2014 to fight the expansion of IS after it had taken control of vast swathes of territory straddling the two countries.

Defeated in Iraq, the group still retains territory in some parts of the Syrian desert, particularly in the east of the country, where the coalition continues to fight the jihadists with the support of an alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Thailand's Education Minister Teerakiat Jareonsettasin has lauded Saibaba's teachings, saying they promote communal harmony and brotherhood among people of different religions.

He offered prayers at the famous Saibaba temple here Sunday evening, and said he hopes more people from his country would get to know about the revered saint and his teachings.

"I came to Shirdi because I know about Saibaba for quite sometime. I watched Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the shrine (in October)...," the minister told PTI.

He said though Saibaba died around 100 years ago, more and more people are visiting the temple to seek his blessings, which means "there is something great about him".

"Saibaba could bring harmony betweenMuslims and Hindus, so we can learn how to live together with different religions. I hope that with this visit, I will be able to bring more Thai people to learn about Saibaba," he said.

During his visit, Shri Saibaba Sansthan's trustee Bipin Kolhe presenting him an idol of the saint and a shawl.

The minister also visited the Saibaba English Medium School and interacted with students there.

Saibaba, a widely revered saint, is believed to have taken samadhi in Shirdi on October 15, 1918.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Bombay High Court will Tuesday pass its order on an anticipatory bail plea filed by a man accused of giving triple talaq to his wife.

Justice Prakash Deu Naik Monday reserved the order on the application filed by Vasai resident Intekhab Alam Munshi seeking anticipatory bail after his wife lodged a case against him for trying to divorce her by resorting to the now banned 'instant talaq' method.

The Centre had on September 19 approved the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights of Marriage) Ordinance, 2018 that makes triple talaq a criminal offence punishable with a jail term of up to three years and a fine.

According to the FIR lodged by Munshi's wife on October 23, he pronounced instant talaq on September 22 by sending her a notice through a lawyer.

Munshi's advocate Vincent D'Silva claimed that he (Munshi) had sent her two notices- first in July and second in August- intimating her for divorce.

"On September 22, he (Munshi) sent her third and final notice of divorce," he said.

The woman's lawyer, Amin Solkar, however, claimed that she did not get the first two notices.

The couple got married in 1998 and have three children.

In May this year, Munshi took his wife to her parents' home and in July filed a suit in a civil court in Vasai seeking decree to divorce.

Even as the suit is pending, on September 22 the woman received a notice claiming that her husband had divorced her through "talaq-e-ahsan", the legal marriage annulment option for Muslims which leaves room for reconciliation.

The woman, on October 23, lodged an FIR against her husband under the new Ordinance and claimed that her husband had not divorced her as per "talaq-e-ahsan" but had actually pronounced the banned "talaq-e-biddat".

In her complaint, the wife said the divorce notice had not specified a reasonable cause and she was also not given an opportunity for compromise and reconciliation with her husband.

Her lawyer Solkar said these were crucial ingredients of "talaq-e-ahsan".

Last month, a sessions court in Palghar had rejected Munshi's pre-arrest bail plea after observing that he had failed to demonstrate that the talaq given by him was "talaq-e-ahsan". Following this, Munshi approached the high court.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)George H.W. Bush is flanked by his sons George W. Bush and Jeb* after completing a parachute jump in Kennebunkport on Friday, June 12, 2009 for his 85th birthday. Photo: Portland Press Herald/Getty Images

The late George Herbert Walker Bush was the patriarch of one of the more successful political dynasties in U.S. history, serving as president, siring another president, and then a second son who at one point looked on course to win the presidency. But Poppy (as he was known from childhood) Bush was also haunted by a problem that eventually felled him, frustrated George W. Bush and thwarted Jeb Bush: a struggle to keep step with a conservative ascendancy in his Republican Party that kept becoming more extreme and deeply mistrusted the familys patrician origins.

Poppy followed in the footsteps of his politician father Prescott Bush, who represented Connecticut for a decade in the U.S. Senate. Prescott was by any measure a moderate  or even liberal  Republican: a despiser of Joseph McCarthy, a close friend of Nelson Rockefeller, and a supporter of civil rights legislation. Even more conspicuously, Poppys father was heavily involved in Planned Parenthood (and its predecessor organization, the Birth Control League), and the quintessentially WASP-y cause of family planning.

Prescotts son, though, began his political career in the very different environment of Texas, where he had moved to get involved (successfully) in the oil business. In his first campaign, a 1964 Senate bid against liberal Democrat Ralph Yarborough, George H.W. Bush was skeptical of federal civil rights legislation. But he also fought John Birch Society efforts to dominate the GOP in Houston, and after being elected to the U.S. House in 1966, struck a more moderate pose. He also resumed his familys mission in supporting Planned Parenthood, as Pema Levy recalled:

As a congressman from Texas from 1967 to 1971, the future president championed federal funding for groups including Planned Parenthood and access to family planning for all Americans. His dedication to the issue earned him the nickname Rubbers.

After another unsuccessful Senate race, Bush remained prominent in the moderate-to-conservative establishment wing of the national Republican Party. He was appointed by Richard Nixon as Ambassador to the United Nations at a time when no self-respecting ideological conservative would have come near that organization; then as chairman of the Republican National Committee; then as envoy to China, even as conservatives were still smarting over Nixons betrayal in recognizing Beijing. When Nixons successor Gerald Ford had to name his own vice president, Bush was reportedly the runner-up to his fathers old ally Nelson Rockefeller.

By the late 1970s, Poppy was ready to run for president himself, but had to accommodate himself to an increasingly conservative party. This meant trading his old devotion to family planning for an alliance with the anti-abortion movement, which had quickly become powerful in the GOP. Still, Bushs lack of credibility with serious conservatives meant active resistance to plans in the Reagan camp to consider Bush (Reagans last surviving rival in the 1980 primaries) as a running-mate, which nearly culminated in a Reagan-Ford ticket (before talk of a co-presidency spooked Reagans advisors).

As Reagans vice president, of course, Bush abandoned all his non-conservative positions (including his devastating description of the supply-side tax-cutting mania as voodoo economics) and became so subordinate that when the time came for the veep to succeed Reagan, his biggest worry was what pundits called the wimp factor. And in a supremely ironic development, given his background, Bushs initially troubled 1988 presidential campaign was rescued by hard-core conservatives such as anti-tax crusader Grover Norquist (who savaged chief rival Bob Dole for refusing to sign a no-new-taxes pledge) and Christian Right figures impressed at his loyalty to Reagan. The fact that Bush showed no squeamishness over the nasty racist tactics of advisors like Lee Atwater indicated that his patrician legacy was disposable.

But like his father and his sons, George H.W. Bush could not come to a comfortable place with an increasingly dogmatic conservative movement. His 1990 violation of his no new taxes pledge in order to reach the deficit reduction deal demanded by panicky stock markets undermined his conservative support in 1992, when his reelection looked momentarily vulnerable to a Pat Buchanan challenge, and he bled considerable support to independent candidate Ross Perot. He also ran afoul of conservatives when his first Supreme Court appointee, the obscure state jurist David Souter, turned out to be pro-choice and generally quite liberal; Bushs effort to make up for that with his 1991 appointment of Clarence Thomas was an ideological concession of great import that nonetheless did not placate his critics on the right.

If Poppys two sons learned anything at all from their fathers experience, it was that establishing a conservative bona fides was critical to a successful career in modern Republican politics. They took two routes to the same goal. Jeb moved to Florida, abandoned the ancestral Episcopalian faith for Catholicism, and married a Latina, while projecting an image as a relatively cerebral ideologue. George W. doubled-down on his Texas background, cultivating an authentic accent, abandoning Episcopalianism for an evangelical-flavored Methodism, and becoming friends and allies with conservative power-brokers like Karl Rove. When both sons ran for governor in 1994, W. won while Jeb lost, which is how the former leap-frogged the latter in the dynastic pecking order.

By 2000, George W. Bush and his allies were letting it be known that while he was the biological son of George H.W. Bush, he was the ideological son of Ronald Reagan. And movement conservatives aligned with the Christian Right did indeed save his bacon when John McCain very nearly ended his presidential candidacy prematurely with a big win in New Hampshire. With an assist from conservative Supreme Court appointees, W. reclaimed the White House his father had lost; And after the tragedy of 9/11, his popularity shot up. With boy genius Rove guiding a domestic policy shop focused on building a durable GOP electoral majority, it looked for a bit like the family curse of fractious relations with conservatives had finally been lifted.

But after sticking with him through a tough 2004 reelection campaign, conservatives became progressively disillusioned with W.s inept management of the Iraq War and homeland calamities like Hurricane Katrina, and with his pursuit of policy heresies like Medicare Part D and comprehensive immigration reform that Rove considered necessary to expand the partys base. As Bush prepared to leave office, the financial sector exploded, the economy lurched into recession, and nobody much regretted his departure. His old rival McCain won the GOP nomination to succeed him, and Democrats won a landslide victory that seemed to usher in a post-conservative era.

But Barack Obamas popularity waned too, and conservatives made a powerful comeback in 2010. As the 2012 election cycle began, there were calls (most notably from Rich Lowry, editor of the flagship conservative publication National Review) for Jeb Bush to at long last to make the move towards the White House he might have made twelve years earlier. Such calls were briefly echoed again when GOP front-runner Mitt Romney stumbled momentarily during the 2012 primaries. Jeb took a pass, but with Obama leaving office in 2016, the time had apparently come for the very true, very blue, True Conservative of the Bush family to harvest all those decades of efforts to win acceptance from the right.

And as we now know, despite vast resources and an immense number of endorsements, Jeb Bush was blown off the stage as the representative of mushy moderate elites out of touch with a new, savage mood in the GOP and the conservative movement, too. Poppys and W.s internationalist credentials, which the Cold War vintage of conservatives deeply appreciated, were treated by conservatisms dark new lord, Donald Trump, as signs of elitist contempt for Americas interests. Reversal of Roves big cause of immigration reform, thought necessary to pull Latinos into a GOP big tent, became job one for the nativists and white identity politicians led by Trump. And Jeb himself, far from being the exciting and hyper-competent ideologue who would finally burnish the Bush brand, became the low energy object of a hundred Trump jibes, and the epitome of tired and empty politics.

We dont know what Poppy thought of the trajectory of the family project in politics in his final days. The only Bush family member now active in statewide politics, Jebs son George P., the Texas Land Commissioner, has made his peace with Trumpism even as the earlier generation of Bushes have kept a disrespectful distance from the 45th president. But it seems likely that the decades-long effort of this family to keep up with American conservatism has ended in exhausted defeat. Maybe theres still room for some of them at Planned Parenthood.Congress president Rahul Gandhi Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and caretaker Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao of striking a "partnership" to ensure the continuation of the BJP and TRS rule at the Centre and in the state respectively.

"The TRS's aim is to ensure that Narendra Modi remains the prime minister of India, the BJP continues to rule the country and KCR (as Rao is referred to by many) rules in Telangana," he said at an election rally here.

Over the last four-and-a-half years, KCR had supported the Modi government on various occasions, Gandhi said, referring to the Telangana Rasthra Samithi (TRS) backing the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) nominees in the presidential and vice-presidential elections.

Besides, Rao had also praised demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) "under pressure", he claimed.

"You have to remember that there is a partnership between the TRS and Narendra Modi and they are working together," the Congress chief said, adding, "We will ensure the defeat of the TRS in Telangana and Modi's BJP in Delhi (in the 2019 Lok Sabha election)."



He also accused KCR of redesigning the Rs 10,000-crore Palamuru-Ranga Reddy Lift Irrigation scheme into a Rs 60,000-crore project to benefit his friends and family, adding that the people of the state did not get water.

"Thousands of crores of rupees went to his (Rao's) contractor friends and his family.

"KCR has been redesigning one project after another in the last five years and the people have given him a new name...every child knows his new name. It is 'Khao Commission Rao," Gandhi alleged.

When the state was formed five years ago, people had a dream of a new Telangana and a brighter future of "neelu" (water), "nidhulu" (funds) and "niyamakalu" (appointments) and of a "Bangaru Telangana" (Golden Telangana), he said.

"KCR became the chief minister and only one family ruled the state...your dreams were shattered. KCR betrayed you on (the promise of) water," the Congress chief said, adding that under the TRS rule, the "Golden Telangana" dream had led to a "golden kutumbam" (golden family).

The Congress is contesting the Telangana Assembly polls, leading a four-party "People's Front", while the TRS and the BJP are going it alone.

The 119-member Telangana Assembly will go to polls on December 7 and the results will be announced on December 11.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Congress President Rahul Gandhi Monday charged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and caretaker Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao have entered into a "partnership" to ensure continuation of the BJP and TRS rule at the central and state level.

"The TRS's aim is to ensure that Narendra Modi remains Prime Minister of India, and BJP continues to rule the country, and KCR (as Rao is referred to by many) rules in Telangana", he alleged at an election rally here.

In the last five years, KCR has supported the Modi Government, he said, noting the TRS backing NDA nominees in the Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections, and that he had praised demonetisation and GST "under pressure".

He also said when Telangana was formed five years ago people had a dream of "bangaru Telangana" (golden Telangana), but after KCR became chief minister only one family was ruling the state.

Under the TRS government, the dream "golden Telangana" had become "Golden 'kutumbam'" (Golden family), he said.

The Congress is contesting the December 7 Telangana Assembly elections leading a four-party 'People's Front', while the TRS and BJP are going it alone.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the TRS, Congress, TDP and AIMIM of perpetuating dynastic and family rule, saying these parties were becoming a "threat to democracy".

Addressing an election rally here, Modi said of the five parties contesting the Telangana Assembly election, only the BJP was being run democratically.

He alleged that the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), Telugu Desam Party (TDP), All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) and the Congress perpetuated dynastic and family rule, adding, "They are becoming a threat to democracy."



The prime minister said many people had sacrificed their lives during the struggle for a separate state of Telangana.

Targeting TRS chief and caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, he said, "Nobody has given one family the right to loot."



Modi recalled that Rao was earlier in the Youth Congress and had his first "apprenticeship" in the TDP, noting that he was also a minister in the UPA-I government.

TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi were his "gurus", he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)US President Donald Trump called for a "a long prison term" after his ex-lawyer Michael Cohen admitted lying to Congress about pursuing a real estate deal with Russia on Trump's behalf during the 2016 election campaign.

"You mean he can do all of the TERRIBLE, unrelated to Trump, things having to do with fraud, big loans, Taxis, etc., and not serve a long prison term?" the president said on Twitter.

"He lied for this outcome and should, in my opinion, serve a full and complete sentence," Trump added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)President Donald Trump Monday said that America's relationship with China has taken a "BIG leap forward" and he was willing to have a trilateral discussion involving Russia to reduce the arms race, a day after his meeting with President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Argentina.

"My meeting in Argentina with President Xi of China was an extraordinary one. Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward!" Trump tweeted.

During the meeting Saturday, Xi and Trump agreed to suspend any new tariffs and take steps to address the trade disputes, which over the past few months had threatened to spill over into a trade war between the world's two largest economies.

Trump agreed that on January 1, 2019, he will leave the tariffs on USD 200 billion worth of product at the 10 per cent rate, and not raise it to 25 per cent at this time.

"Very good things will happen. We are dealing from great strength, but China likewise has much to gain if and when a deal is completed. Level the field! Trump said.

"Farmers will be a a very BIG and FAST beneficiary of our deal with China. They intend to start purchasing agricultural product immediately. We make the finest and cleanest product in the World, and that is what China wants. Farmers, I LOVE YOU!" the US president tweeted.

Trump said he and Xi "have a very strong and personal" relationship.

"He and I are the only two people that can bring about massive and very positive change, on trade and far beyond, between our two great Nations. A solution for North Korea is a great thing for China and ALL!" he asserted.

Trump also talked about reducing arms race between US, China and Russia.

"I am certain that, at some time in the future, President Xi and I, together with President Putin of Russia, will start talking about a meaningful halt to what has become a major and uncontrollable Arms Race. The US spent 716 Billion Dollars this year. Crazy!" Trump tweeted.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)US President Donald Trump has written to Prime Minister Imran Khan, seeking Pakistan's support in bringing the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year brutal war in trouble-torn Afghanistan, officials here said on Monday.

The development came weeks after Trump said Pakistan does not do "a damn thing" for the US, alleging that Islamabad had helped al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden hide near its garrison city of Abbottabad.

The Foreign Office (FO) said that the President, in a letter, has sought Pakistan's cooperation in bringing the Taliban to negotiating table.

In the letter, Trump "stated that his most important regional priority was achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war. In this regard, he has sought Pakistan's support and facilitation," the Foreign Office said.

The President also acknowledged that the war had cost both the US and Pakistan, and emphasised that both the countries "should explore opportunities to work together and renew partnership".

Pakistan welcomes the decision to explore ways for a political settlement of the Afghan issue, the FO said.

"Since Pakistan has always advocated a political settlement to end the war in Afghanistan, US decision is welcomed," it said.

Pakistan also reiterated its commitment to play a facilitation role in good faith, stressing that peace and stability in Afghanistan was a shared responsibility.

Last month, the Pentagon said that the US has suspended USD 1.66 billion in security assistance to Pakistan after President Trump's directive.

Ties between the US and Pakistan strained after Trump, while announcing his Afghanistan and South Asia policy in August last year, hit out at Pakistan for providing safe havens to "agents of chaos" that kill Americans in Afghanistan and warned Islamabad that it has "much to lose" by harbouring terrorists.

In September, the Trump administration cancelled USD 300 million in military aid to Islamabad for not doing enough against terror groups like the Haqqani Network and the Taliban active on its soil.

The Trump administration, in the recent months, has intensified its efforts to seek a negotiated settlement of America's longest war in Afghanistan where the US has lost over 2,400 soldiers since late 2001, when it invaded the country after the 9/11 terror attacks.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A city-based journalist of a national television channel was injured when he was assaulted by a man near the Raj Bhavan here while covering a protest, the police said.

The man has been arrested on charges of attempt to murder, they said.

The journalist, Pramod Madhav, who was covering the protest organised by MDMK founder Vaiko, was attacked near the protest site by Suresh Babu, a city-based driver.

Babu allegedly punched the journalist in the face while he was shooting the video of his purportedly picking a fight with a owner of a tea stall near the protest site after being asked for money for the food consumed, a senior police officer said.

The journalist has been admitted to the government Royapettah hospital, police said.

DMK and other parties had extended support to the protest over the issue of premature release of seven life convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.): Two people, including a functionary of AMMK, have been arrested here for allegedly circulating colour photocopies of Rs 2,000 currency notes, police said Monday.

Saddam Hussain (28) had given a fake Rs 2,000 note to buy a cigarette packet from a shop here, about 185 km from Chennai, the police said.

On suspicion that the note was a counterfeit one, the shopowner raised an alarm and the local people caught Hussain and handed him over to police.

Inquiries revealed that Hussain had procured the note from Alexander, a functionary of TTV Dhinakaran-led Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam, and had circulated it on a commission basis, police said.

Alexander and Hussain were both arrested and remanded in judicial custody, they said.

Alexander had allegedly used a colour photocopying machine toproduce the fake notes, they said.

The two had so far circulated such notes with a total face value of Rs 40,000 in the nearby Vaniyambadi market area, the police said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Putin said he and Trump managed to squeeze in a chat. Photo: Mikhail Svetlov/Getty Images

President Trump had a successful trip to the G20 summit in Buenos Aires  if by successful we mean that his behavior didnt raise the specter of imminent war or generate any other incident that cut into weekend coverage of the death of former president George H.W. Bush. In 2018, that counts as good news.

The summit organizers bragged about reaching an agreement on a joint declaration, but observers differed on whether the document just noted the status quo or actually walked back commitments leaders had made in prior years. For example, the United States succeeded in striking a reference to combating protectionism, and the document dealt with climate change by noting that 19 of the 20 participants reaffirmed their commitment to the Paris climate accord (the U.S. got its own clause reiterating that Trump intends to withdraw).

Unlike the NATO and G7 summits of earlier this year, the president did not immediately undercut his signing of the summit document by trashing the G20, its participants, or the agreement itself. Trump even failed to produce the most-commented-upon moment at the meeting; that belonged to the grinning fist bump between Russian president Vladimir Putin and Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, when the two men met Friday. Twitter marveled at the bro-thoritarian sight of two leaders apparently reveling in their reputations for dismembering journalists and blockading civilian boat traffic.

Its more than a little bit ironic that the G20 treated Trump so well. The forum was created 19 years ago with the explicit purpose of fostering rules-based globalization, more international trade, and more participation of diverse developing countries in the international system. That ethos, driven by center-left politicians from the U.S. and Canada, is pretty much the exact opposite of Trumps desire for bilateral, transactional, anything-goes deals that privilege culturally similar partners.

But with authoritarian and nativist parties and leaders on the rise around the world, the G20 of 2018 turns out to be just Trumps kind of crowd. It provided an opportunity for Trump to talk with Putin and the Saudi crown prince, out of the site of the cameras. While the White House said there was no Trump-Putin meeting, the Russian leader assured reporters that hed spoken to the U.S. president on the sidelines and answered his questions about Russias recent firing on Ukrainian vessels.

Putin and MBS may have been the visual of the conference, but the most-watched leader was certainly Chinas Xi Jinping. His agreement to a 90-day trade cease-fire with Washington drew cheers form global markets. In return for Trump pledging to hold off on a new round of tariffs, Xi gave away nothing but a vague promise to buy unspecified large quantities of unspecified U.S. products. Even that detail was withheld from Chinese audiences.

President Trumps usual foils at international summits were more subdued. French president Emmanuel Macron (in a world of trouble at home after a weekend of violent demonstrations in Paris against his new fuel tax) was caught on a microphone remonstrating MBS, saying, You never listen to me. That could have been the theme for all the democracies in Buenos Aires. It was hard to detect progress on any of the long list of issues they brought to the meeting. Discussion of Ukraine only produced taunts from Putin. There was no movement on peace in Syria, combating climate change, or increasing womens representation in government. Only silence on the humanitarian catastrophes unfolding in Venezuela and Central America, both sparking painful and destabilizing mass migrations.

Like Macron, U.K. prime minister Theresa May likely welcomed the weekend as a respite from domestic upheavals; May has had her career obituary rewritten daily as the real-life consequences of the Brexit vote become more clear, leaving U.K. politics in deadlock. Germanys Angela Merkel, who signaled the beginning of her exit from German politics earlier this fall, almost didnt make it after her plane developed mechanical difficulties. She wound up on a Spanish commercial flight, plopping down in business class at the last minute next to a surprised Argentine traveler.

Trump took advantage of the setting to sign his replacement NAFTA trade agreement with Canada and Mexico and threaten to withdraw from the existing agreement in order to force reluctant congressional Democrats to ratify the new one. He then skipped some events and kept a generally lower-than-normal profile. Fellow leaders were surely wondering what the latest round of indictments and revelations in the Mueller investigation means for his administration and its longevity. But the scene around him should be a reminder that whenever Trump goes, something that looks very much like Trumpism will be sharing the global stage for the foreseeable future  and institutions like the G20, built for the very height of globalization, may not be able to contain it.Two modules of militant outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) were busted in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir in which 10 persons were arrested and huge quantity of incriminating material recovered, police said Monday.

A police spokesperson said a special team was constituted to investigate surge in militant attacks in Tral in which civilians and security forces were targeted and created an atmosphere of panic and fear in the area.

"Police in south Kashmir busted two terror modules of proscribed terror outfit JeM and arrested 10 of its associates in Tral area of Awantipora and Khrew area of Pampore," the spokesperson said.

On the basis of material evidence collected, four persons, identified as Younis Nabi Naik, a resident of Pinglish, Fayaz Ahmad Wani, a resident of Reshipora, Riyaz Ahmad Ganaie, a resident of Nigeenpora and Bilal Ahmad Rather, a resident of Hafoo Nigeenpora were taken into custody, he said.

Investigation into the cases revealed their complicity in the attacks carried out in Tral area of south Kashmir, the spokesperson said.

He said another module was busted in Khrew area of Pampore in which six associates of JeM identified as Javaid Ahmad Parray, Yasir Bashir Wani, Tahir Yousuf Lone, Rafiq Ahmad Bhat, Javaid Ahmad Khanday and Imran Nazir -- all residents of Khrew area -- were arrested on the basis of incriminating materials recovered.

"Huge quantity of incriminating material was recovered from this terror module, including gelatin sticks, detonators, materials for making IEDs and grenades. All the incriminating material has been taken in case records to probe their complicity in other terror crimes," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Two persons were allegedly thrashed and shot at following a brawl over playing music at a function in southwest Delhi's Palam village, police said Monday.

Shanky Bhardwaj (23) and Tushar Bhardwaj (16) received injuries in the incident that took place on Sunday night, they said.

The disc jockey (DJ) Akshay (19), his employer Amit Sharma (29) and his brother Ashish Sharma (23) were arrested for firing at the duo, they added.

The police received a call regarding a quarrel and firing at Choti Chopal in Palam village at 10.24 pm, a senior police officer said.

According to eyewitness Mohit, a friend of the victims, he had insisted the DJ to play a particular song but his request was ignored resulting in a heated argument, the senior officer said.

As Shanky and Tushar too joined in, Akshay informed Amit and Ashish who came there along with an associate Sanjay, the officer added.

In his statement, Mohit alleged that Sanjay and Amit thrashed the trio and even fired at Shanky and Tushar before fleeing the spot, police said, adding that further investigation was underway.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)One of the UK's leading manufacturers of musical instruments, which has bagged a contract worth around 3.4 million pound from the Indian Army to supply military band equipment, is celebrating the export success.

The British Band Instrument Company (BBICO) announced that it has completed the delivery of the export contract involving the supply of all the Indian Army Regimental Centres with new military band, bagpipe band and percussion instruments.

"With this latest announcement of our recent success in India, we are able to demonstrate a positive future for specialist companies such as the British Band Instrument Company in export markets," Alun Hughes, the founder and managing director of the company, said in a statement.

The deal for the supply of around 15,000 instruments to 47 regiments of the Indian armed forces is estimated to be worth around 3.4 million pounds.

The was welcomed by the UK government, celebrating it as an example of Britain's export success to India.

"With their high-quality products reaching all corners of the world, the British Band Instrument Company is a great example of the success that exporting can bring to UK companies," said Baroness Fairhead, Minister of State for Trade and Export Promotion at the UK's Department for International Trade (DIT).

Lord Stephen Green, president of the UK's Institute of Export and International Trade and former trade minister, said he was "delighted" to hear the of the contract with the Indian government.

"This sets an example for all small businesses to follow," he said.

London-based BBICO describes itself as a small business with a prominent position in the global music market, providing world-class music product solutions to a wide-range of global clients.

"This significant new contract heralds ongoing positive for the UK export market, highlighting the company's solid reputation, which has grown progressively since being founded over a decade ago," a company statement said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Unaccounted cash and illegal goods worth about Rs 111 crore have been seized on separate occasions so far in poll-bound Telangana, officials said Monday.

According to an official release, the State has sought 279 companies of central forces and as of now 240 have arrived.

They would assist 30,000 local police personnel on duty for the December 7 Telangana assembly polls.

"Money influence in elections in India is going up. There is no denying of that. If you see the cash and goods' seizure figures, it was Rs 76 crore during 2014 elections in combined Andhra Pradesh.... ," Chief Electoral Officer Rajat Kumar told reporters.

He said any contesting candidate is allowed to spend up to Rs 28 lakh while there is no limit for a party on election expenditure.

Replying to a query, Kumar said there are 38 constituencies in the state under Left wing extremist influence while some are expenditure sensitive according to previous history.

Kodangal, from where state congress working president Revanth Reddy is contesting, is a "politically sensitive" constituency, he said.

"It came to our notice that there are political allegations and counter allegations in Kodangal. There was some cash seizure also from the constituency. We are keeping strict vigil there," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Opposition parties in the Mumbai civic body Monday slammed the Shiv Sena for its bid to de-reserve a 200 square metre plot in suburban Kurla citing difficulty in removing encroachments.

Leaders of the Congress, SP and NCP have accused Sena leaders and city Mayor of "conniving" with builders by seeking to de-reserve the said plot.

However, in an apparent change of stand, the Sena now says that the party wanted the reservation on the plot to continue.

Last week, Sena corporator Anant Nar had moved an amendment against the original proposal to acquire the plot reserved for a public ground, which was passed by a majority in the general body meeting.

The Sena is the ruling party in the 227-member Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

"Moving amendment against reservation was flawed and in contravention to rules, but no senior leader opposed the move. We want an apology from Mayor and reversal of the amendment," opposition leader Ravi Raja of Congress told reporters Monday.

Samajwadi Party (SP) group leader Raees Sheikh said the Sena leaders wanted the plot to be transferred to builders by seeking to de-reserve it.

"It is the duty of the BMC to get rid of squatters from the plot and get it back, but they did nothing," he claimed.

NCP group leader Rakhi Jadhav said, "The Improvement Committee led by Sena's Dilip Lande had passed the proposal to de-reserve the plot. We want him to quit on moral grounds".

When contacted, a Sena leader said the party wanted the reservation to stay.

The BMC had drawn a flak earlier after it failed to acquire a 3.3-acre plot for a recreational ground in suburban Jogeshwari in July this year, prompting civic chief Ajoy Mehta to file FIR against officials for allegedly tampering his remarks on an official file.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Filmmaker Karan Johar, who has produced both Janhvi Kapoor's debut "Dhadak" and Sara Ali Khan's second feature "Simmba", says it is "unfair" to compare the two young actors.

Janhvi, daughter of late actor Sridevi and producer Boney Kapoor made her debut with the "Sairat" Hindi remake, while Sara, daughter of Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh, has two back-to-back releases -- "Kedarnath" and Rohit Shetty's "Simmba", which is co-produced by Karan.

When asked, who between the two would get more awards, Karan told reporters, "Two girls, who are 21-22 years old, if at this stage we start comparisons then it's not fair. Both of them are wonderful, beautiful and they work very hard... Awards will never matter. The work they do, the love they get from people is every award."



Karan was speaking at the trailer launch of "Simmba", which he has co-produced. The cop-action-drama features Ranveer Singh and Sara.

Karan said he has been waiting to collaborate with Rohit for the longest time and feels glad it finally happened with "Simmba."



"Rohit Shetty school of cinema is unabashed, unapologetic and in your face in the best possible fashion. His conviction is paramount and films are universal. I would say he is India's most mainstream filmmaker that there is or there might ever be," he said.

"Simmba" features a special song with the "Golmaal" team and in the track, Karan also makes an appearance.

"I wanted to give one hit film as an actor and I requested if he could take me in his film so that I would get a hit! I just wanted to remove the misconception that my films as an actor don't work," the filmmaker quipped.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Anglo-Dutch FMCG giant Unilever Monday said it will acquire health food and drinks portfolio of GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in India and over 20 other markets predominantly in Asia for a consideration of 3.1 billion pound.

As part of the transaction, Unilever's Indian arm, Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) will acquire GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Ltd (GSK CH India) via an all-equity merger, valuing the total business of the latter at Rs 31,700 crore.

GSK CH India is the market leader in the health food drinks (HFD) category, with popular brands such as Horlicks and Boost.

Announcing the deal that also covers "Bangladesh and 20 other predominantly Asian markets", Unilever said the transaction consists of an all-equity merger of HUL with the publicly-listed GSK Consumer Healthcare India and acquisition of 82 per cent stake in GSK Bangladesh Ltd.

It also includes acquisition of certain other commercial operations and assets outside India, it added.

HUL said its board has given nod for the all-equity merger of GSK CH India, under which with 4.39 shares of HUL will be allotted for every share in GSK CH India.

"The iconic Horlicks brand has a deep heritage, credibility and resonance around the world. The acquisition is transformative for our Foods and Refreshment business allowing us to enter the Health Foods Drinks category, further strengthening our position in health and wellness," Unilever President, Food & Refreshment Nitin Paranjpe said.

Hindustan Unilever Chairman and CEO Sanjiv Mehta said with the strategic merger the company will be expanding its portfolio through "great brands into a new category catering to the nutritional needs of our consumers".

"The turnover of our foods and refreshments (F&R) business will now exceed Rs 10,000 crore and we will become one of the largest F&R businesses in the country," Mehta said.

HUL CFO Srinivas Pathak said at present the company's F&R business is at around Rs 2,400 crore.

"We expect this business to grow in double digit over the mediun term. This would be a significant opportunity," he added.

Stating that "Horlicks has made a significant contribution to GSK and to the health of consumers across India for many decades", GSK CEO Emma Walmsley said: "We believe Unilever is well placed to maximise its future potential".

She further said that proceeds from this transaction will be used to support the group's strategic priorities, including investing in our pharmaceutical business.

GSK said India remained an important market for it and the company will continue to invest in growth opportunities for its OTC and Oral Health brands there, which include Crocin, Eno and Sensodyne.

"Following completion of the transaction, HUL will distribute GSK's OTC and Oral Health brands, that are currently distributed by GSK India," it said, adding this arrangement will be for a period of five years.

GSK said the transaction is conditional on the approval of the merger by the shareholders and creditors of each of GSK India and HUL.

Both GSK and Unilever, which hold 72.5 per cent and 67.2 per cent of the shares in GSK India and HUL, respectively, intend to vote in favour of the merger, it added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The Uttar Pradesh government has announced financial assistance to the kin of Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh who died of gunshot injuries on Monday as a rampaging mob protesting alleged illegal cow slaughter torched a police post in Bulandshahr and clashed with cops.

In a statement issued here, Principal Secretary (Home) Arvind Kumar said, "Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced a financial assistance of Rs 40 lakh to the wife of Subodh Kumar Singh and Rs 10 lakh to his parents."



The chief minister has also announced an extraordinary pension for the dependent family of the deceased inspector and government job for a member of his family, the statement said.

Singh, who had probed the Akhlaq lynching case initially, and a youth died of gunshot injuries in the violence on Monday, officials said.

Additional Director General (Meerut zone) Prashant Kumar said the protestors from Mahaw village and nearby areas pelted stones on the police and indulged in arson, setting ablaze several vehicles and Chingarwathi Police Chowki, after some body parts of cows were found in a jungle near the village, prompting the police to open fire.

Inspector Singh, who was posted at the Siana Police Station, suffered a gunshot injury in addition to wounds from hard and blunt objects, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Anand Kumar said, citing a post-mortem report.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)MDMK founder Vaiko and leaders of some other political parties were detained by police Monday when they tried to picket the Raj Bhavan here over the issue of pre-mature release of seven life convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.

They protested against Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit for not taking a decision so far on the Spetember 9 recommendation of the AIADMK government to him to release the convicts after the state cabinet headed by Chief Minister K Palaniswami adopted a resolution to the effect.

Vaiko lashed out at Purohit for not accepting the state government's recommendation though he had given his nod for the release of three AIADMK men convicted and sentenced to life term in the case related to burning of three women students in 2000.

CPI state secretary R Mutharasan, leaders of DK and VCK, K Veeramani and Thol Thirumavalavan respectively were among the others detained by the police when they staged the protest near the Raj Bhavan, police said.

Vaiko and other carried placards demanding the exit of the Governor.

The MDMK chief warned of intensifying protests against Purohit if the seven people -- Murugan, Santhan, Perarivalan, Ravichandran, Robert Payas, Jayakumar and Nalini -- were not released immediately.

Purohit had last month approved the premature release of three AIADMK men A Nedunchezhian, G Ravindran and C Muniappan under a scheme in commemoration of the birth centenary celebrations of late Chief Minister and ruling AIADMK founder M G Ramachandran, known as MGR.

They were serving life sentence for setting ablaze a bus in Dharmapuri that killed three students of the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University in 2000 while protesting the then conviction of former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa in a corruption case.

On Monday, Vaiko referred to a Tamil saying to imply that the Governor adopted different yardsticks on the two cases.

"The Governor is involved in burying justice and human rights," he alleged said in a statement later.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu Monday asked the corporate sector to contribute to the cause of "inclusion" by creating adequate employment opportunities for the differently abled people, and said it would supplement the government's efforts to empower them.

At an event organised by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, he said India's development story will be incomplete without "inclusion" and harnessing the hidden potential of all people including the differently abled.

Naidu also also asked the corporate and the private entities to include in their Corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities the development of infrastructure accessible to persons with disabilities.

"I urge the corporate sector to contribute to the cause of inclusion by creating adequate employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. This will supplement governmental efforts to reserve positions for persons with disabilities in government establishments," he said.

On the occasion, the vice president conferred National Awards on individuals, institutions, organizations, state/district and others for their outstanding achievements and work done towards empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).

There is a need to develop collaborative efforts among all stakeholders for developing barrier-free environment for the PwDs be it in the physical infrastructure or transportation sector, he said.

Naidu said creating accessible environment for persons with disabilities has been a priority area for the government since the inception of Accessible India Campaign in 2015.

"Increasing access to public facilities is a priority area. Given the size of the existing infrastructure, this is a gigantic task," he said.

The vice president called on the states and Union territories to effectively implement the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which provides for promoting inclusive education, skill development, healthcare, social security, rehabilitation, recreation and sporting activities the differently abled.

Only one-third of India's states have notified rules under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act since it was notified for enforcement in April last year.

The rules for the implementation of the act was notified by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in June last year.

Naidu also pitched for reinventing the education system to create inclusive educational opportunities, and stressed on the use of technology creatively to make this possible.

Societal norms should be changed through intensive awareness campaigns to remove the stigma attached to disability, he said, adding governance system needs fine-tuning to respond to the special needs of the differently abled.

Early identification of disability and effective intervention are important and there is a need to harmonise immunisation and disease-prevention programmes with appropriate rehabilitation models, the vice president said.

Children in the susceptible age groups should be given access to better healthcare and nutrition to prevent occurrence of disability, he said.

"Education is the key to empowerment of every person including persons with disabilities. I strongly believe that the provisions of the Act have to be strictly implemented to ensure that children with disabilities have access to school education with proper pedagogical support," he said.

The PwDs, Naidu said, need appropriate career and life-enhancing policies and programmes to lead a dignified life and measures to boost their self-confidence.

Although the government has taken a number of initiatives to systematically address the challenges that the differently abled face, there is still a long way to go, he said.

"We have to take a number of actions with speed and sincerity to build an inclusive society," the vice president said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The VHP's massive rally on December 9 demanding early construction of Ram temple at the disputed site in Ayodhaya, will change the mind of all those who feel the bill in the upcoming winter session of Parliament is not possible, its Joint Secretary Surendra Jain said Monday.

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) is organising a 'dharam sansad' (congregation of Hindu priests) at the Ramlila ground here next Sunday, just days before the start of the winter session of Parliament.

Addressing a press conference here, Jain said,"There will be a huge rally on December 9 here in the national capital, which will pressurise all the political parties to pass a bill for the construction of Ram temple."



To a question on BJP chief Amit Shah's reportedly hinting that the bill on Ram temple might not be possible in the upcoming winter session of Parliament, Jain said," I will not comment on any specific individual".

He expressed confidence that the upcoming rally will change the minds of all political leaders on the issue of bill for the Ram temple.

He said the VHP is confident that a bill will be tabled in the upcoming winter session of the parliament for paving the way for construction of temple in Ayodhaya.

" If in any case bill does not come in this winter session, then future course of action will be decided at the next dharam sansad, which will be held in Allahabad on sidelines of mahakumbh on January 31 and February 1, next year," Jain said.

RSS general secretary Suresh Joshi, along with VHP's president Vishnu Sadashiv Kokje and its international working president Alok Kumar will address the rally, he informed, adding that various saints will also address the gathering.

Jain maintained that VHP will seek support from all parties including Congress for passage of bill in the winter session.

"He (Rahul Gandhi) is not our enemy, no one is our enemy," the VHP leader said.

The organisation is carrying out to door-to-door campaign in the national capital and its adjoining areas for making this rally a grand success, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan Monday said he was not a person to dance to the "whims and fancies" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and hit out at the Congress state president who had alleged that IPS officer Loknath Behara was made Kerala police chief by the left government at Modi's behest.

Mullappally Ramachandran, congress' Kerala chief, had Saturday alleged that Behara was appointed state DGP at the behest of Modi after he as senior NIA officer gave him and BJP president Amit Shah a "clean chit" in Gujarat riots and Ishrat Jahan alleged fake encounter cases.

Vijayan said those knowing him are aware that he was not a person to dance to the "whims and fancies" of the PM.

"Anyone who knows me will never believe that I am a person who will act according to the whims and fancies of Modi. LDF is not here to sign along Modi's dotted lines," the Chief Minister said.

Ramachandran, who had served as minister of State forHome Affairs for five years in the Manmohan Singh cabinet in 2009, made the allegation at a meeting of the Youth League inVatkara in Kozhikode district.

Lashing out at the congress unit chief, Vijayan said if Ramachandran had come across such an issue, he should have informed the then Home Minister P Chidambaram.

"Why didn't he inform Chidambaram? Why was he waiting for last two and a half years? Why didn't he take necessary action when he was in power?" Vijayan asked.

Vijayan also said the UPA was in power for ten years.

Ramachandran was a minister from 2009, the chief minister said.

"He had five years. Why were they silent for all those years? His sincerity is under clouds of doubt. Why did he hide this information. His words can't be trusted," he said.

Vijayan also said if someone was trying to protect Modi and Shah, they should have taken it up and acted accordingly.

Ramachandran had said as a Union minister for five years, he had gone through several files.

This included "those relating to the biggest riots thecountry has seen-- the Gujarat violence, Ishrat Jahan case (relating to the "encounter" killing of a 19-year-old womanand three others on the outskirts of Ahmedabad) and lots of other cases in which Modi, (who was then Gujarat chiefminister) and Amit Shah, were co-accused," he said.

Modi was accused of asking police to go soft onrioters targeting the Muslims.

In 2012, he was cleared of complicity in the violenceby a Supreme court appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) which had questioned him for over 9 hours in the post-GodhraGulberg society massacre case.

Ramachandran had alleged that Behara was one of theofficers of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), who had prepared the report "giving clean chit" to Modi and Shah.

The congress leader had said the report had "amused all of us."



As a quid pro quo, Ramachandran alleged, that Behara was appointed Kerala DGP on the directions of the Prime minister.

Taking a dig at Vijayan, Ramachandran had alleged Modi had directed his "new found companion" to appoint Behara as DGP and he had obliged.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A police inspector, who had probed the Akhlaq lynching case initially, and a youth died of gunshot injuries on Monday as a rampaging mob protesting alleged illegal cow slaughter torched a police post here and clashed with cops, officials said.

Additional Director General (Meerut zone) Prashant Kumar said the protestors from Mahaw village and nearby areas pelted stones on police and indulged in arson, setting ablaze several vehicles and Chingarwathi Police Chowki, after some body parts of cows were found in a jungle near the village, prompting the police to open fire.

Police said there was firing by miscreants also during the clash.

Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh, who was posted at Siana Police Station, suffered a gunshot injury in addition to wounds from hard and blunt objects, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Anand Kumar said, citing the post-mortem report.

Inspector Singh was investigating officer in the Akhlaq lynching case of Dadri between September 28, 2015 and November 9, 2015, he said, replying to queries from reporters.

The mob lynching of Akhlaq over rumours of cow slaughter and possession of beef in his home had triggered a massive outrage across the country.

Police said Sumit (20) also died of gunshot injuries sustained during the violence.

As tension prevailed in the area following the violence that lasted nearly three hours, the Uttar Pradesh government deployed additional police, including over 1,000 personnel of anti-riot forces, and ordered multiple probes by SIT, ADG-Intelligence and a magisterial inquiry.

Expressing grief over the incident, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who is in Rajasthan for election campaign, said strict action will be taken against the guilty after the probe reports are received.

In Lucknow, the Uttar Pradesh government announced a total of Rs 50-lakh assistance to the kin of Inspector Singh. The government said Rs 40 lakh would be given to his wife and Rs 10 lakh to his parents.

The Congress hit out at the chief minister, saying he should first set his own house in order before "gallivanting" around the country for election campaign.

Giving details of the incident, the ADG (Law and Order) said trouble started this morning when carcasses of the cows were found dumped in a forest area outside Mahaw village.

"Activists of right-wing organisations soon gathered at the spot and alleged that people of a community were indulging in cow slaughter," he said.

Angry villagers and members of various Hindu groups brought the animal remains in a tractor-trolley to the Chingarwathi Police Chowki and demanded action against the culprits.

They raised slogans against the police administration and blocked the Bulandshahr-Garh State Highway.

Bulandshahr District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha, Sub-divisional Magistrate Avinash Kumar Maurya and other senior officials tried to reason with the protestors but they refused to budge.

The protesters soon turned violent, pelting stones on policemen and indulging in arson, Jha said.

Though some officials earlier said the inspector died after he was hit by a blunt object, the post-mortem report said he was hit by a bullet.

"The entry of the bullet is near the left eyebrow. As per PM report it appears to be a .32 bore," the ADG (law and order) said.

"It is clarified that Subodh Kumar Singh was investigating officer of the Akhlaq lynching case of Dadri from September 28, 2015 till November 9, 2015. Charge sheet was filled in the case by a different investigation officer in March 2016," he told reporters.

Kumar said the ADG-intelligence has been asked to submit a report in 48 hours which will throw light on circumstances of his death.

Akhlaq was lynched in 2015 by a mob that had barged into his residence in Dadri following rumour that he stored beef in his house after slaughtering a calf.

A video showing the body of a policeman slumped to ground from the seat of a police vehicle surrounded by some people came to light after the Sunday incident. But the police refused to confirm if it was of inspector Subodh.

However, a senior police official requesting anonymity said, "In all likelihood, it appears to be Subodh Kumar's."



The ADG (law and order) said additional reinforcements -- 500 personnel of Rapid Action Force and 600 personnel of Provincial Armed Constabulary -- were rushed to the spot of violence and the situation was under control.

DM Jha said, "Some people took the bodies of the animals and tried to block the road. The policemen were attacked when they tried to get the road opened."



The violence started at around 10 am in Siana area in the district where a major three-day Islamic congregation had concluded this afternoon. The police warned against attempts to spread any misleading information, saying the incident was not related in any way to the congregation.

"The incident occurred 40-50 km away from the congregation site. Some miscreants were behind the violence and action is being taken against them in accordance with law," the Bulandshahr Police tweeted in the evening.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Actor Freida Pinto has fond memories of Sundays spent in front of the television watching the animation series on 'The Jungle Book' with her family.

This is why when she got to know that Andy Serkis, her co-star from "Planet of the Apes", was working on the story, she picked up the phone and asked him for a role, any role.

"I wanted to be a part of this film, it was not the other way round where I got the offer. I kind of called them to make the offer. It had to do with the childhood memory and how connected I felt to the story," she told PTI in an interview.

"I remember the joy and the thrill I would feel on a Sunday to go back home after Sunday school. I remember so well my sister and I just sitting on the couch waiting for the next episode and my dad would bring these snacks from this local bakery in Malad. That's probably my favourite childhood memory," Pinto added.

The actor plays the role of Messua, a human adopted mother to Mowgli, a role she describes is like 'jaadoo ki jhappi' for the child torn between being a human and a wolf.

"I kind of feel if I have to describe my character I'm one big giant hug for Mowgli in the movie. A hug that he's never got from anybody, so I get to be that special person in his life who makes him feel like he's loved and cared for and that he can heal," she said.

Pinto said all the performance capture roles were already cast except for Cate Blanchett (Indian rock python Kaa) and Naomie Harris (Mowgli's wolf mother Nisha) was the only other female character.

"You know you would not want to play Kaa because she requires this majestic voice and my voice is thinner compared to hers. You need a fuller voice for Kaa.

"I said, 'Okay, there aren't any more performance capture roles left but I will do anything to be in this movie. I'll do like a one-second role just because I wanted to honour my childhood memories but I had actually something even better than a one second role," she added.

Pinto, who shot to international fame with her role in 2008 film "Slumdog Millionaire", says things have changed a lot in the past one decade because stories are acting like a bridge between India and the West.

"What is beautiful that I'm seeing now is that it's not really so much about the bridge with artistes, it's the bridge with stories. I think it's the stories that are now connecting the two worlds.

"People are more interested in knowing what's happening in India with 'Sacred Games' or what other stories can come from here that can translate to the rest of the world and not just America. Whereas before, Indian movies were just made for India, Indian TV series was just made for India and probably a little bit of Middle East and Morocco but not for the globe," she said.

"Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle" features performance capture and voice over by Bale, Serkis, Blanchett, Harris, Benedict Cumberbatch, Tom Hollander and Peter Mullan. The film stars Rohan Chand as the title character.

The film has been dubbed in Hindi by Abhishek Bachchan, Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Madhuri Dixit and Kareena Kapoor.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)George HW Bush is set to embark on his final tour of Washington as a nation prepares to bid farewell to its 41st president.

His remains will arrive in Washington on Monday, and he will lie in state at the Capitol through Wednesday.

An invitation-only funeral service is set for Wednesday at Washington National Cathedral, to be attended by President Donald Trump and other dignitaries.

Bush will then be returned to Houston for burial Thursday at his presidential library at Texas A&M University.

He will be laid to rest alongside Barbara Bush, his wife of 73 years who died in April, and Robin Bush, the daughter who died of leukemia at age 3.

Bush was president from 1989 to 1993. He died Friday in Houston at age 94.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Welspun Enterprises said Monday it has inked a pact with (NHAI) for a Rs 20.05 billion highway project in Tamil Nadu.

" and Welspun Sattanathapuram Nagapattinam Road Private Limited (WSNRPL), a subsidiary of Welspun Enterprises Ltd, have executed the Concession Agreement on December 3, 2018 for four-laning of Sattanathapuram to Nagapattinam section of NH-45A (New NH -332) in Tamil Nadu," the company said in a regulatory filing to the BSE.

ALSO READ: NHAI seeks Sebi nod to raise Rs 100 bn via bonds to finance Bharatmala

It said the project falls under NHDP Phase-IV and will be implemented on hybrid annuity mode (HAM).

"WSNRPL will develop the project at a Bid Project Cost of Rs 20.04 billion and first-year O&M (operation and maintenance) cost of Rs 50 million," the company said.

The construction period is two years and WSNRPL has received a firm sanction letter from lenders for this project, the company said in the filing.New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson hit a fighting half century while BJ Watling batted with patience to delay leg-spinner Yasir Shah's bid to become the fastest to 200 wickets on the first day of the third and final Test in Abu Dhabi on Monday.

Williamson missed out on a 19th Test century but Watling was unbeaten on 42 as New Zealand closed on 229-7, a measured recovery after being reduced to 72-4 by a triple strike from Yasir in the first session.

Yasir began his 33rd Test needing five wickets to become the fastest man to reach the milestone of 200 Test wickets. The record is currently 36 Tests, set 82 years ago by Australian legspinner Clarrie Grimmett.

Yasir managed 3-62 but was then thwarted by the fifth wicket stand of 104 in 249 balls between Williamson and Watling.

He failed to take any more wickets in the last two sessions and still needs another two wickets to hit the 200-mark and claim the record.

Williamson struck seven boundaries but these were the bright points in a day when defence came first.

The normally robust and aggressive Kiwi captain curbed his attacking instinct as he attmpted to carve out a first innings that might give his side some leverage in the match. The scoring rarely got above two an over.

Watling also dug in and the pair batted right through the middle session. Williamson passed 50 in a Test for the 46th time but he was not able to convert his innings into another hundred.

Having reached 89 off 176 balls, he mistimed a clip off Hasan Ali shortly after tea and found a gleeful Asad Shafiq oouching the catch at short midwicket. Off-spinner Bilal Asif took over from Yasir, claiming Colin de Grandhomme for 20 and Tim Southee for two to finish with 2-57.

But Watling kept one end intact through his patient near-four hour batting, hitting only one boundary in his 180-ball display of self-denial.

- Yasir's morning -



===================



With both teams needing a win to seal a series which is currently tied at 1-1, Yasir was the key and the leg-spinner induced a mini-collapse in the morning as the Kiwis slipped from 70-1 to 73-4 at lunch.

Yasir trapped opener Jeet Raval leg before with a faster one for 45. Raval reviewed but ball-tracking showed it would have hit leg stump.

With his next ball, Yasir clean-bowled Ross Taylor as the batsman went back but completely missed the ball.

Henry Nicholls saved the hat-trick but shortly after he attempted to sweep and Yasir flicking the ball as it went through to bowl him around his legs.

Yasir, whose 14 wickets helped Pakistan level the series in Dubai, has 25 wickets in the series so far.

It was teenage left-arm paceman Shaheen Shah Afridi, making his Test debut as a replacement for injured medium pacer Mohammad Abbas, who gave Pakistan their initial breakthrough and claim his first Test victim.

The 18-year-old nipped one back sharply to rap opener Tom Latham on the pads. Pakistan reviewed the on-field not out decision and were rewarded when ball-tracking showed the ball would have cannoned into the stumps.

New Zealand, who won the first Test by four runs in Abu Dhabi, brought in fast bowler Tim Southee and off-spinner Will Somerville in place of Neil Wagner and Ish Sodhi.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A woman police officer in Maharashtra Beed's district has been transferred after she allegedly bragged about thrashing as many as 21 Dalits by "tying their hands and legs" to vent her ire against the SC/ST Atrocities Act, a senior officer said Monday.

In a video that has gone viral, Bhagyashree Navtake, a probationary Indian Police Service (IPS) officer who was posted as an assistant superintendent of police in Majalgaon, over 400 km from here, purportedly said she had also beaten up Muslims in the last six months.

The clip shows the IPS officer seated in front of a group of five-six people in a closed place and talking about the "action" she had taken against Dalits and Muslims.

Looking at a person seated in front of her, the officer says in Marathi, "I hit you just four-five times. But do you know how we beat Dalits? We tie their hands and legs and thrash them.

"By thrashing Dalits, I gave vent to my anger against the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act," she says.

The context in which the officer is talking about "thrashing Dalits and Muslims" is, however, not known.

Navtake can also be heard saying that she was unhappy because she had to become an IPS officer despite ranking 125 in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination.

"I am from the 'open' (general) category... A candidate from the OBC (Other Backward Classes) category became an IAS officer despite scoring 600th rank," she said in the video.

A senior police officer said in Mumbai that the office of the director general of police had transferred Navtake after taking cognisance of the video.

"She was attached to the Aurangabad unit of the state intelligence department (SID) on Monday and an enquiry has been initiated against her," he said, adding that a special inspector general of police (IGP)-level officer would head the probe.

When contacted by PTI for her comments, Navtake sent an SMS saying: "Enquiry is on. Don't want to comment.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A woman Maoist carrying Rs one lakh reward on her head, surrendered before police in Odishas Malkangiri district Monday, a senior police officer said.

Ide Madi (23), who was active in Maoist activities, "decided to surrender as she realised the futility of violence", said Malkangiri Superintendent of Police, Jagmohan Meena.

Madi's surrender was considered a major achievement for police and a jolt for the red rebels as it came during the ongoing PLGA (Peoples Liberation Guerrilla Army) week being observed by the banned CPI (Maoist) from Sunday to December 8, a police officer said.

The SP said Madi, who hailed from Silakota village in Podia area in the district, was involved in many crimes including murder. She carried a reward of Rs one lakh announced by the Odisha government.

Madi had been working in Kalimela Area Committee of Malkangiri Division under Andhra Odisha Border Special Zonal Committee of the outlawed CPI (Maoist), he said.

She decided to give up arms and return to the social mainstream due to various reasons including frequent anti-Maoist operations conducted by the security forces in interior areas of Kalimela, Meena claimed.

She also did not like the activities of some cadres who are involved in brutal killings of innocent people, he said.

Madi would get monetary assistance as per the surrender and rehabilitation scheme of the government. She would also get financial assistance for building house, pursuing studies and getting training in a trade/vocation of her liking, the SP added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)The world is "way off course" in its plan to prevent catastrophic climate change, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Monday as the COP24 summit officially opened in Poland.

After a string of damning environmental reports showing mankind must drastically slash its greenhouse gas emissions to avert runaway global warming, Guterres told delegates "we are still not doing enough, nor moving fast enough".

The nearly 200 nations that signed up to the 2015 Paris climate deal must this month finalise a rulebook to limit global temperature rises to well below two Degrees Celsius, and to the safer cap of 1.5C if possible. But the rate of climate change is rapidly outstripping mankind's response.

With just one Celsius of warming so far, Earth is blighted by raging wildfires, extreme drought and mega-storms made worse by rising sea-levels.

"Even as we witness devastating climate impacts causing havoc across the world, we are still not doing enough, nor moving fast enough, to prevent irreversible and catastrophic climate disruption," Guterres said.

Some of the nations most at risk from climate change will have the chance Monday to plead the case for immediate action. Frank Bainimarama, prime minister of Fiji and president of last year's COP climate talks, said nations must act now to stave off disaster.

"Or, God forbid, (we) ignore the irrefutable evidence and become the generation that betrayed humanity," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)A zonal commander of an ultra outfit was arrested Monday from Lawalong area in Naxal-affected Chatra district of Jharkhand, police said.

Surendra Ganju alias Manish was carrying a reward of Rs 2 lakh on his head, they said, adding he worked with Trutiya Samajik Prastuti Committee (TSPC).

Acting on a tip-off, the police and the CRPF raided a residence of his family members in Lawalong area and made the arrest, Deputy Superintendent of Police Varun Devgan said.

The team has recovered Rs 87,000 and three mobile phones from his possession, he said.

Four ultra-related cases were pending in Chatra district against Ganju, who was also operating in adjoining Latehar district, Devgan added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)HELSINKI (Reuters) - Despite no tunnel and no government or European Union backing, passengers can now buy tickets for trips through what would be the world's longest undersea rail link, between Helsinki and the Estonian capital Tallinn.The 15-20 billion euro project, led by Peter Vesterbacka, a former executive at Angry Birds game maker Rovio, and his FinEst Bay Area company, has raised 100 million euros ($114 million) from Dubai-based construction company ARJ Holding, its first external funding commitment. Tens of thousands of Estonians work in the Helsinki area, making the weekly commute ...BEIJING (Reuters) - China's factory activity grew slightly in November, a private survey showed, though new export orders extended their decline in a further blow to the sector already hurt by the Sino-U.S. trade frictions. The Caixin/Markit Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for November, released on Monday, ticked up to 50.2 from 50.1 in October. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast a reading of 50.0, the level that separates expansion from contraction. Domestic orders have been losing momentum in recent quarters as the world's second-largest economy slows. Overall, a ...By Andrew Galbraith and Noah SinSHANGHAI/HONG KONG (Reuters) - Chinese shares, commodities and the yuan currency jumped on Monday after Chinese and U.S. leaders agreed to a temporary truce in their bitter trade war, but the longer-term outlook for trade relations remains murky.The deal between Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping postponed the most pressing threat to the global and Chinese economies - a sharp hike in U.S. tariffs that had been slated for Jan. 1.But analysts cautioned it has only bought a bit more time for wrangling over deeply divisive trade and policy differences, and said ...By Alastair MacdonaldBRUSSELS (Reuters) - Albert Frere, a veteran dealmaker whose impeccable business timing made him Belgium's richest man, died on Monday at the age of 92, the firm he built, Groupe Bruxelles Lambert (GBL), said.Frere had stepped down as a director of GBL and GBL's Swiss-based shareholder Pargesa three years ago, though he remained one of the controlling shareholders of the group run since 2012 by his son-in-law, Ian Gallienne, who is co-CEO.Frere attained international prominence in the early 1980s, helping divest some of nationalised French bank Paribas' foreign assets and ...By Aditya KalraNEW DELHI (Reuters) - A small Indian non-profit funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies will not be allowed to carry out tobacco-control work in New Delhi after it failed to disclose its funding, according to a city government official and a memo seen by Reuters.Other foreign-funded organizations will need to seek prior approval in the future for anti-tobacco activities in the Indian capital, the official also said.The Delhi city government's decision comes amid similar moves by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's federal administration, which has since 2014 tightened surveillance of ...(Reuters) - China and the United States agreed on Saturday to a truce in their trade war following talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina.The United States expects China to take immediate action to cut tariffs on U.S. car imports and end intellectual property theft and forced technology transfers as the two countries move toward a broader trade deal, a White House official said on Monday.However, there are differences in both countries' official accounts of what was agreed. Here are some of the key ...By David ShepardsonWASHINGTON (Reuters) - General Motors Chief Executive Mary Barra will meet with Ohio's two U.S. senators on Wednesday about the Detroit automaker's plans to idle five North American plants and cut up to 15,000 jobs.The announcement comes as the United Auto Workers union on Monday sent a letter to GM formally objecting to the decision to end production in 2019 at four U.S. plants and said that decision violates commitments made by the company during contract talks in 2015. The decision to close an assembly plant in Ohio has come under fire from President Donald Trump and ...By Rajendra JadhavSEHORE, India (Reuters) - India's wheat production could fall in 2019 from record output this year as lower moisture levels and higher temperatures in key growing regions are threatening yields of the winter-sown crop, farmers and analysts told Reuters. A drop in output could lift local wheat prices and force the world's second-biggest producer to reduce import taxes on the grain to augment supply. Higher imports from India could support global wheat prices, while a local price increase could calm angry farmers in northern India. "Instead of six acres, I planted wheat on ...By Ana Ionova and Marcelo TeixeiraLONDON/SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Brazilian sugar companies are increasing their capacity to produce ethanol in the face of depressed global sugar prices and government policies expected to boost demand for the biofuel.A shift to ethanol in the 2018-19 season slashed Brazil's sugar output by 9 million tonnes to a 12-year low and more switching to the biofuel next season could help to wipe out a global surplus weighing on sugar prices.Brazil could also lose its crown as the world's biggest sugar producer to India for the first time in 16 years, according to the ...By Junko FujitaTOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's relationship with state-backed Japan Investment Corp (JIC) has been damaged by excessive pay demands, an economy ministry official said on Monday.JIC Chief Executive Masaaki Tanaka walked out of a Nov. 24 meeting to discuss remuneration levels at the investment fund, which was formed in September to manage more than $17 billion of public money, ministry official Keisuke Sasaki said.JIC is seeking annual compensation of about 55 million yen ($480,000) for Tanaka and top management, Sasaki said, adding that this is higher than the Bank of Japan ...(Reuters) - Nexstar Media Group Inc said on Monday it agreed to buy Tribune Media Company in a deal valued at $6.4 billion.Nexstar said it would pay $46.50 per share, representing a premium of 15.5 percent to Tribune Media's closing price on Friday.The price per share value of the deal was in line with what Reuters reported on Sunday, citing people familiar with the matter. (Reporting by Arjun Panchadar in Bengaluru)(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)By Eric KnechtDOHA (Reuters) - Qatar said on Monday it was quitting OPEC from January to focus on its gas ambitions, taking a swipe at the group's de facto leader Saudi Arabia and marring efforts to show unity before this week's meeting of exporters to tackle an oil price slide.Doha, one of OPEC's smallest oil producers but the world's biggest liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter, is embroiled in a protracted diplomatic row with Saudi Arabia and some other Arab states.Qatar said its surprise decision was not driven by politics but in an apparent swipe at Riyadh, Minister of State for Energy ...WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday said U.S.-China relations had taken a big step forward over the weekend after he and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to hold off on new tariffs, and urged Beijing to finalize a trade deal with Washington."My meeting in Argentina with President Xi of China was an extraordinary one. Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward! Very good things will happen. We are dealing from great strength, but China likewise has much to gain if and when a deal is completed. Level the field!" Trump tweeted. (Reporting by Susan Heavey and ...WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday that China had agreed to "reduce and remove" tariffs on U.S. cars below the 40 percent level that Beijing is currently charging on American-made vehicles.A day after he and Chinese President Xi Jinping called a 90-day cease-fire in their trade war to allow time for negotiations, Trump said on Twitter: "China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%." (Reporting by David Lawder; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman)(This story has not been edited by Business ...By David Lawder and Christian ShepherdWASHINGTON/BEIJING (Reuters) - China has agreed to "reduce and remove" tariffs below the 40 percent level that Beijing is currently charging on U.S.-made vehicles, U.S. President Donald Trump said, as a trade war truce between the two countries gathers pace, cheering markets.Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to hold off on new tariffs during talks in Argentina on Saturday, declaring a truce following months of escalating tensions on trade and other issues.In a meeting lasting two and a half hours, the United States agreed not to raise tariffs ...The United States expects China to take immediate action to cut tariffs on US car imports and end intellectual property theft and forced technology transfers as the two countries move toward a broader trade deal, a White House official said on Monday. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday agreed to a ceasefire in a trade war that has seen the flow of hundreds of billions of dollars worth of goods between the world's two largest economies disrupted by tariffs. The two leaders agreed to hold off on imposing more tariffs for 90 days starting Dec 1 ...(Reuters) - Verizon Communications Inc and Samsung Electronics Co Ltd on Monday confirmed long-held industry expectations they would seek to steal a march on Apple Inc by launching U.S. 5G smartphones in the first half of 2019.The two companies said in a statement they would unveil a prototype, using Qualcomm Inc's modem chips, at the chipmaker's annual Snapdragon Technology Summit in Maui, Hawaii this week.While Verizon is leading the charge to trial 5G in some cities next year, industry analysts say the higher-speed networks are unlikely to be widely available until the middle of the next ...The benchmark indices ended largely flat on Monday. The S&P BSE Sensex ended at 36,241, up 47 points or 0.13 per cent, while the broader Nifty50 index settled at 10,884, up 7 points or 0.06 per cent.

In sectoral indices, the Nifty Metal index ended 2 per cent higher led by a rise in Jindal Steel & Power and Vedanta.

Among key stocks, shares of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries fell 7.6 per cent to end at Rs 455 per share on the BSE on reports that the market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), has initiated an inquiry into the affairs of pharma major on the basis of a whistle-blower complaint.

The market regulator was in receipt of a 150-page letter in which the whistle-blower accused the company of committing corporate governance and tax-related lapses, besides other securities market-related violations, the Business Standard reported quoting regulatory sources.

Sebi, according to sources, also plans to reopen an insider trading case against the company and its promoters that was settled through the consent mechanism, added report.

Shares of Hindustan Unilever (HUL) and GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare (GSKCH) moved higher on the BSE, after their respective boards approved their merger, subject to obtaining requisite approvals from statutory authorities and shareholders.

HUL settled at Rs 1835, up 4.6 per cent, while the GSKCH ended 3.6 per cent at Rs 7,531 on the BSE.

Multinational consumer goods major Unilever on Monday confirmed it was acquiring Horlicks and other health food products in an all-equity merger of Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) with publicly listed GSK consumer Healthcare India.

The merger of HUL with GSK Consumer Health will be on the basis of an exchange ratio of 4.39 HUL shares for each GSK Consumer Health share. The deal also includes the acquisition of certain other commercial operations and assets outside of India.The government is worried about the state of the telecom and airline companies and has advised them to end the price war and go for a rational hike in rates, a business newspaper reported recently. It has said that telcos and airlines are on a path of self-destruction because of the price war, therefore a reasonable increase is the need of the hour. Let's take a look at some related numbers.

As per existing framework, tariff for mobile services is under forbearance except for National Roaming service and Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD). Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) have flexibility to design and offer tariff as per prevalent market environment, subject to the condition that these tariffs have to be consistent with the regulatory framework and principles. Currently, all TSPs are offering the bundled services which include voice and data at very competitive prices. It is generally a trade-off between monthly fixed charges and variable (call) charges. Therefore, average subscriber outgo per outgoing minute for usage from home service area would be a realistic indicator of average tariff.

Further, led by price cuts, Average Revenue Per User has declined significantly in the past one year

The fall in tariff due to competition has impacted the businesses of all telecom companies. The operating profits of the telecom companies have witnessed significant fall since 2016/17.

Till 2016/17, growth based on aggregate sample of over 100 companies, 2017/18 based on short sample of 18 companies.

It is difficult to compare the tariff levels in different countries. The tariff level in India is generally considered to be amongst the lowest in the world.There could be some bad news in the offing for Indian software engineers looking to land a job in the US. The Trump administration, already well-known for its hard-line anti-immigration stance, recently proposed to further tweak rules for the H-1B visas. And that's a worrying development for Indians, who typically garner more than 60% of these visas.

The US Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) proposal to introduce electronic registration for H-1B visa petitions for the filing season for the 2020 fiscal, which kicks off on April 1, 2019 along with a reverse selection process to include US master's or advanced degree holders within the 65,000-cap will tighten movement for Indian IT services sector, The Economic Times reported.

The H1B visa is a popular non-immigrant work visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations, and American tech companies have long depended on it to hire highly-skilled employees from countries like India and China.

According to NASSCOM , the Indian IT services sector - a major beneficiary of the H-1B visas - sees this as a fresh concern, adding that it may lead to "uncertainties" and could put US jobs at risk. However, the software body made it clear in a statement yesterday that it will carefully review the 139-page proposal and evaluate its implications for US companies and the economy before forming an opinion.

"That said, there is not much time between now and when the next H-1B lottery season opens in April 2019. Companies have already begun assessing their needs and planning their submissions for next year, so we are concerned about the uncertainties that could arise as the government seeks to implement another major change in the H-1B process during that timeframe," said NASSCOM.

Read more: US lawmakers introduce legislation to protect work authorisation of H-1B spouses

The industry body further pointed out that contrary to what is intended, this action could put US jobs at risk and create pressure to send more IT work abroad, rather than performing it in the US. "To the extent US policy makes it more difficult and costlier for global IT service companies to provide their expertise in the United States, it will weaken US companies that depend on them to help fill their skills gap," read the statement.

NASSCOM added that its members are already investing billions of dollars in the US, employing more than 1.5 lakh people, and spending millions of dollars on upskilling programmes. "It is important that they and others continue to have access to the necessary talent," it explained.

The proposed rules not only mandate electronic pre-registration with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the annual visa lottery but also allow the immigration agency to reverse the order by which it selects H-1B petitions under the H-1B cap. The idea reportedly is to introduce a more meritorious selection of beneficiaries by offering US master's degree holders two chances to get lucky.

"A big change that is going to affect direct hires from India is going to be the reverse-selection process whereby all online registrants will be part of the lottery towards the initial 65,000 cap [the general quota for H-1B visas]. Any individual with advanced US degree who is not selected in this lottery will be eligible for the additional 20,000 visas reserved for individuals with advanced US degrees. This means that the odds are against the number of visas that would be granted to applicants from India without this advanced education," Poorvi Chothani, managing partner, LawQuest, an immigration law firm, told the daily.

According to the DHS, the proposed process would result in an estimated increase of up to 16% (or 5,340 workers) in the number of selected H-1B beneficiaries with a master's degree or higher from a US institution of higher education. But companies reportedly expect this to be a fresh hindrance to deployment of employees for projects in the US.

"This is going to be one more point of friction. But it is what it is. We need to learn to live with it. There is nothing much that we can do," Rostow Ravanan, chief executive officer, Mindtree, told the daily.

He added that this was an effort by the US administration to "promote local employment" and "reduce number of visas to the extent these changes can be made administratively" since they have realised anything that requires legislative approval will take time. His company, like many other software services exporters, has already changed its business models in line with US President Donald Trump's Buy American and Hire American executive order.

The latest DHS proposal has already been approved by the US Office of Management and Budget (OMB) unit of the US president's executive office. The public comments on the proposed rule may be submitted starting December 3, when the proposed rule publishes in the Federal Register, and must be received on or before January 2.

This change is expected to result in significant savings of administrative costs as well as time and paperwork for the sponsoring companies - i.e. those hiring foreign employees. Currently, all petitions have to be filed upfront in April, along with all supporting evidence, just for entry into the lottery. In other words, the new rule will spare companies the effort of preparing a complete petition for applicants that don't get lucky in the visa lottery. It will also allow USCIS to manage the intake and selection process for H-1B applications more efficiently. For the 2018-19 season, the agency received 1.9 lakh applications but less than half would be accepted.

But if the proposal is passed, the transition period may bring its own share of woes. "At present I am concerned that that they may not have a robust programme in place for the upcoming H-1B filing season and this might lead to delays and or confusion," said Chothani.

With PTI inputs

Edited by Sushmita Agarwal

Read more: H-1B visa issue: Trump wants only highly skilled people to stay in the US, says White House

'Dramatic increase' in number of H-1B visas being held up: Compete America

Indians hold three-quarters of H-1B visas in 2018, says USCIS reportLess than three months after hospitality company OYO Hotels & Homes raised $1 billion from SoftBank, Sequoia and other existing investors to enter unicorn club, it is reportedly working on another $1 billion funding round.

Singapore-based ride-hailing company Grab -- hailed as Southeast Asia's most valuable startup -- is in advanced discussions to invest $100 million (Rs 697.7 crore) in the Ritesh Agarwal company, The Economic Times reported.

Sources told the daily that Grab, which like OYO is a part of SoftBank's portfolio, is expected to close the deal over the next few days. The proposed investment will be made through A1 Holdings Inc., an entity controlled by Grab, which was valued at $11 billion at the close of its funding round in August. If things go to plan, OYO will be its first India bet.

The ride-hailing giant's interest in the Gurugram-based hospitality chain is not surprising. In September, its co-founder Hooi Ling Tan told Bloomberg that Grab has been expanding rapidly throughout Southeast Asia to leverage its size after the Uber deal -- in March it had acquired Uber's Southeast Asia operation -- and was exploring forays into fields as diverse as grocery delivery and finance to healthcare.

Another unicorn in the making! SoftBank to invest $450 million in Delhivery

The company is also flushed with funds to bankroll its plans. Having already raised $2 billion in the calendar year so far, Grab is reportedly on track to raise another $1 billion before 2019 rolls in. It already has an existing venture investment arm, Grab Ventures, which has made four investments so far, according to its website.

Besides, Grab and OYO have one common interest: Tapping Indonesia. Both companies have identified Indonesia as a key market for growth. According to Tan, Grab's boasts a 65 per cent share in the Indonesian ride-hailing market -- amid intensifying rivalry with Jakarta-based ride-hailing and logistics startup Go-Jek -- and has seen its revenue in this market triple so far this year.

Meanwhile, OYO, which announced the launch of its operations in Indonesia last October, is looking to expand to the top 35 cities in the country, including Yogyakarta, Bandung and Bali, over the next 15 months. It had commenced its Indonesian operations with 30 full-inventory franchised and operated exclusive hotels and over 1,000 rooms in just three cities, namely Jakarta, Surabaya and Palembang.

"Indonesia is one of the top choices for both global and Indian travelers and with our market learnings and expertise we are ready to tap this opportunity," Agarwal had told the daily at the time, adding "We intend to invest over $100 million in this high growth market."

Grab's proposed investment fits in neatly with these plans. The daily added that the talks with the Singapore-based startup are a part of OYO's $1 billion funding round. However, the Grab's entry as a stakeholder is not expected to impact OYO's valuations. The investment would reportedly be at the same valuation -- $5 billion -- that the hospitality chain commanded in its last funding round in September.

If the Grab deal goes through, OYO would have raised $900 million in equity financing, with the final tranche of $100 million expected by the end of the year.

Edited by Sushmita Agarwal

Read more: Oyo appoints former IndiGo president Aditya Ghosh as new CEO for India, South Asia

OYO Hotels to expand its footprint in Odisha

How India's Oyo, Flipkart have made Japan's Softbank richerAll employee unions of BSNL on Sunday, decided to defer their indefinite strike to December 10 if they fail to resolve issues in the proposed meeting with Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha.

The employee unions met Telecom Secretary Aruna Sundararajan Sunday and observed improvement in some of the issues that they have been raising, such as allotment of 4G spectrum, pension revision and payment of pension contribution by BSNL as per the government rule.

All Unions and Associations of BSNL (AUAB), however, said in a statement that they were not convinced with the reply of the secretary in respect to their demand on third pay revision.

The strike was earlier proposed to start from December 3.

"Under these circumstances, with the view to ensure an opportunity for having a discussion with the Hon'ble Minister of State for Communications, the AUAB has decided to defer the indefinite strike for one week," the statement said.

BSNL unions have been demanding allocation of 4G spectrum to the public sector firm so that it is able to compete in the market and keep up the market share.

The employees are also demanding wage revision as per recommendations of 2nd and 3rd pay revision committee.

"In case a fruitful settlement does not arise in the meeting with the Hon'ble Minister of State for Communications, the indefinite strike will start from 00:00 hours on 10-12-2018," AUAB said.Chinese President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump's decision to suspend imposing of any new tariffs for 90 days for talks to address the trade dispute has put brakes on the escalating trade war between the world's two largest economies, a relived China said on Sunday.

At their "highly successful" dinner meeting on the sidelines of the annual G-20 Summit in Argentina's capital Buenos Aires, Trump agreed to postpone for 90 days a scheduled increase in tariffs on USD 200 billion in Chinese imports, while Xi agreed to purchase a very substantial amount of US products so as to reduce the USD 375 billion trade deficit between the two countries.

During the meeting, which had also raised global expectations of an end to the six-month-long trade war, Trump agreed that on January 1, 2019, he will leave the tariffs on USD 200 billion worth of product at the 10 per cent rate, and not raise it to 25 per cent at this time.

If there is no deal at the end of the 90-day grace period, the US will increase the tariffs on the USD 200 billions of goods from 10 per cent to 25 per cent.

Addressing the media, in Buenos Aires, after the talks, Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi acknowledged that China would import more from the US and address Washington's concerns in the 90-day period.

"In a friendly and candid atmosphere, the two presidents had profound discussions that lasted for two-and-a-half hours. The time was much longer than the schedule," the state-run Xinhua news agency quoted Wang as saying.

It was the first face-to-face meeting between the two leaders since Trump's China visit in November last year and since both countries started imposing tit-tat tariffs on each other's exports.

According to Wang, the two presidents reached an important common understanding, and the meeting certainly has "charted the course for China-US relations in some time to come."

During their working dinner, the two leaders had very "positive and constructive" discussions over trade and economic issues and agreed not to impose additional tariffs, he said, adding that China will import more marketable products form the US in efforts to ease imbalances in bilateral trade gradually.

Wang said the two sides also agreed to open market to each other and China will, in the process of its further opening-up, work to resolve the legitimate US concerns gradually.

Trump has been demanding China to drastically reduce the USD 375 billion trade deficit and ensure IPR production for US technology and services. The escalating trade war raised concerns in China as its economy was on the downward trend amid efforts by the government to rejig the export-dependent economy to that of relying more on domestic consumption.

Wang said that working teams on both the sides would follow the guidance of the principled consensus reached between the two leaders, and step up negotiations toward the removal of all additional tariffs so as to reach a mutually-beneficial agreement at an early date.

"The important consensus reached at the meeting not only effectively stopped further escalation of trade tensions but also opened up new prospects for win-win cooperation between the two countries," the Chinese foreign minister said.

Results achieved at the meeting will not only benefit the two countries and the two peoples but also be conducive to the stable growth of the global economy, he said.

The two sides also agreed to enhance cooperation on law enforcement and combating illicit drugs, including the synthetic drug fentanyl, Wang said.

Exports of Fentanyl from China became the latest source of friction between the two countries as it has emerged as a new source of drug abuse in the US in addition to heroin, resulting in large-scale deaths of American youth.

China's efforts to tackle the abuse of fentanyl-like substances have won positive comments from across the globe, and Beijing has decided to list all fentanyl-like substances and their precursors as controlled substances, Wang said.

"Saturday's meeting has put the brakes on escalating trade friction between the two countries. The two sides decided to avoid escalation of restrictive trade measures and will work towards lifting all additionally-imposed tariffs," Xinhua said.

The outcome of the meeting needs to be cherished. The economic teams of the two countries should follow the consensus reached by the two heads of state, it said.

The usually abrasive ruling Communist Party-run Chinese tabloid, Global Times said: "the progress made at the talks in Buenos Aires is of momentous significance since the Sino-US trade friction escalates this year".

"It is hoped the agreement reached on Saturday will be implemented by the two sides and Chinese and American working teams will meet the expectations of their leaders, normalising trade relations between the countries," it said.

Playing down domestic concerns of any compromise by China giving in to Trump's demands, it said "the Chinese public needs to keep in mind that China-US trade negotiations fluctuate. China's reform and opening-up's broad perspective recognises that the rest of the world does things differently."

Meanwhile, the state-run China Daily said in the editorial that "the fact that the two leaders could sit down for candid talks and agree to avoid the looming escalation of trade tariffs to allow for continuing trade negotiations, shows that both sides are aware of how damaging they would be, not just on each other but the global economy as a whole."03 Dec 2018, 7:03 PM

China praises Trump-Xi truce to halt trade war; promises to import more from US

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump's decision to suspend imposing of any new tariffs for 90 days for talks to address the trade dispute has put brakes on the escalating trade war between the world's two largest economies, a relieved China said on Sunday. At their "highly successful" dinner meeting on the sidelines of the annual G-20 Summit in Argentina's capital Buenos Aires, Trump agreed to postpone for 90 days a scheduled increase in tariffs on USD 200 billion in Chinese imports, while Xi agreed to purchase a very substantial amount of US products so as to reduce the USD 375 billion trade deficit between the two countries.

Train 18 crosses 180 kmph speed limit during test run

India's first locomotive-less train, known as Train 18, breached the 180 kmph speed limit during a test run on Sunday, a senior railway official said here. When this Rs 100-crore indigenously designed train is made operational, it will become the country's fastest train. If all things go well, Train 18 will replace the current Shatabdi Express - a day train. Train 18 is capable of touching 200 kmph provided the rest of Indian Railways' system such as tracks and signals permit, officials said. The ICF will roll out one more Train 18 this fiscal and four by the next fiscal.

BSNL employee unions suspend indefinite strike

All employee unions of BSNL on Sunday, decided to defer their indefinite strike to December 10 if they fail to resolve issues in the proposed meeting with Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha. The employee unions met Telecom Secretary Aruna Sundararajan Sunday and observed improvement in some of the issues that they have been raising, such as allotment of 4G spectrum, pension revision and payment of pension contribution by BSNL as per the government rule.

WhatsApp chief seeks RBI nod to expand payment services to all users in India

WhatsApp Chief has written to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), seeking a formal nod to expand payments services to all its 200 million users in India. The messaging app, which has drawn fire from the government over spread of fake messages on its platform, continues to wait for a regulatory clearance to launch full-fledged payments operations in India - months after its 'testing' amassed nearly one million users, and almost two years since it first began discussions with the government on its payments services plans. The development comes at a time when competitors such as Google have forged ahead with their payments offerings.

Jet Airways to close services on seven Gulf routes amid financial woes

Struggling to keep it afloat in the wake of a dismal financial performance in the last three quarters, Jet Airways is withdrawing its flight services on as many as seven Gulf routes from this month, a source said. The Naresh Goyal-controlled airline will not operate as many as 39 services per week to Doha, Muscat, Abu Dhabi and Dubai from various domestic cities. Once a key market for Jet Airways, the lower demand and high competition have made a good number of routes in the Gulf economically unviable, forcing the airline to withdraw operations from there

Indian Railways plans to increase the speed of Kalka-Shimla trains

Next week, the Indian Railways' research and development wing will begin efforts to increase the speed of trains on Kalka-Shimla narrow gauge route from the present 25kmph to 35kmph, officials said. This is the first time the railways is trying to bump up the speed on the route, which will reduce the journey time between the two stations by at least an hour.

Swiss government agrees to share details of two firms, three persons with India

As Switzerland continues to shed its image as a safe haven for alleged black money, the Alpine nation has agreed to share with Indian authorities the details about two companies and three individuals who are facing multiple probes back in India. One of the two Indian companies used to be a publicly-listed entity and has already faced the wrath of capital markets regulator Sebi for multiple violations, while the other firm is said to have political links in Tamil Nadu. Similar requests have also been accepted for three individuals

Nasscom raises concerns over US govt latest proposal on H-1B visas

Nasscom has raised concerns over the US government's latest proposal that will require H-1B visa seeking firms to electronically register their petitions in advance, saying this will lead to "uncertainties" and could put US jobs at risk. The IT industry body, in a statement, said it will carefully review the 139-page proposal and evaluate its implications for US companies and the economy, and then submit comments.Google has confirmed that it will not be shutting down its messaging app, Hangouts. Few days back, 9to5Google, a news site, had said that the search giant would be shutting down the Hangouts by 2020.

Google's Real Time Communication product lead for G Suite - including Hangouts Meet and Chat, and Google Voice - Scott Johnston took to the Twitter to clarify his company's stand and dispel the rumours. According to the tweet, Johnston said that Google has made no decision to shut down Hangouts. Instead Hangouts users will be transitioned to Hangouts Chat and Hangouts Meet, enterprise focussed products that are expected to fill different needs.

Scott also added that as a result of Hangout user migration, the Hangouts classic would eventually shutdown but the company would continue to support the "use case supported by the product: messaging and meetings".

https://t.co/QgYfj03ADn Hey @hallstephenj, I run Hangouts and this is pretty shoddy reporting. No decisions made about when Hangouts will be shut down. Hangouts users will be upgraded to Hangouts Chat and Hangouts Meet. Your source is severely misinformed. You can do better. - Scott Johnston (@happyinwater) December 1, 2018

Google spokesperson issued an official statement again confirming how Chat and Meet will be made available for regular users. The statement said, "In March 2017, we announced plans to evolve classic Hangouts to focus on two experiences that help bring teams together: Hangouts Chat and Hangouts Meet.

Both Chat and Meet are available today for G Suite customers and will be made available for consumer users, too. We have not announced an official timeline for transitioning users from classic Hangouts to Chat and Meet. We are fully committed to supporting classic Hangouts users until everyone is successfully migrated to Chat and Meet."

Earlier it was reported that Google Hangouts, a chat app that was launched back in 2013, would be shut down for the consumers. Google Hangouts was itself a replacement of three Google chat/messaging products. Development of Hangouts too had ceased in 2017 and most users had switched to other messaging platforms.

Edited By: Udit Verma

Also Read: NCPI asks Google, WhatsApp to clarify plans on local payments data storage in IndiaIndian benchmark indices ended higher in choppy trade on Monday, supported by steady buying across realty, power and metal stocks. Early today, the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) Sensex opened 250 points higher, but failed to leverage the early momentum due to selling across pharma and auto stocks.

Extending rally for the sixth straight session, the BSE SENSEX closed at 36,241, up by 46.7 points or by 0.13 per cent, and the NSE Nifty ended at 10883.75, up by 7 points or by 0.06 per cent. During the day's trade, BSE Sensex touched intraday high of 36,446.16 and intraday low of 36,099.68, while the NSE Nifty touched intraday high of 10,941.2 and intraday low of 10,845.35.

Outperforming the benchmark indices, the broader markets, MIDCAP and SMALLCAP rose 0.46 per cent each.

The market breadth, indicating the overall strength of the market, was positive.

On BSE out of total shares traded 2950, 1425 shares advanced, 1349 shares declined, and 176 were unchanged.

YES Bank was the top gainer among the 30-Sensex components and rose nearly 5 per cent as investor remained bullish on stock despite the adverse developments that has rattled the stock to 52-week low last week. Among others, Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (Rs. 1825.90,+4.12%), Vedanta Ltd. (Rs. 203.05,+3.70%), NTPC Ltd. (Rs. 145.10,+3.68%), Bharti Airtel Ltd. (Rs. 322.90,+2.98%), were notable gainers.

On the flip side, shares of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries settled 7.5 per cent lower after media reports suggested that capital market regulator SEBI is likely to reopen the investigation into the insider trading case against the company and its promoters.

Stocks from the realty, power and metal were the major gainers, while pharma and auto stocks were the key losers in today's trading session.

Auto stocks got a bear hug on Monday after their monthly sales data for November failed to impress investors. Ashok Leyland was the top laggard, falling over 4 per cent to Rs 107.55, followed by Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (Rs. 764.00,-3.32%), Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (Rs. 942.00,-1.76%), Apollo Tyres Ltd. (Rs. 234.65,-1.57%) and Hero MotoCorp Ltd. (Rs. 3015.00,-1.41%), among others.

On the economy front, the Nikkei India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) rose for the third consecutive month in November, up from 53.1 in October to 54.0, driven by stronger demand conditions and greater sales, manufacturers increased production. The rise was led by intermediate goods firms, although robust growth was also seen in the consumer and capital goods categories. The latest figure signalled the strongest improvement in the health of the sector in almost one year.

Overseas, Asian stocks closed higher on Monday as investors cheered easing trade tension between the US and China. Following a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Group of 20 summit last week, both the nations announced a temporary halt in trade tariffs.

Edited by Chitranjan KumarSkills shortages, more creative recruitment plans and mounting salary demands are among the top issues currently on employers agendas for next year, according to the new Hays Ireland Salary & Recruiting Trends 2019 guide. The survey interviewed nearly 2,500 employers and employees across Ireland.

The report indicates that while the long-term impact of Brexit remains the great unknown, skills shortages are the most acute challenge for employers, one that cannot be overcome by salary increases alone.

According to the report, 97% of employers have experienced some form of skills shortage within the past 12 months and 61% cite a shortage of suitable candidates as their biggest challenge when recruiting.

Half of businesses say these shortages are impacting upon their ability to deliver important projects, 42% suggest it is hurting employee morale and 37% claim it is impacting on overall business productivity. By extension, 22% of employers believe they do not have the talent to achieve their business objectives.

In response to these shortages, 77% of employers plan to increase salaries in the year ahead. Employee movement remains high but stagnant as 53% of Irish professionals intend to look for a new role, the same as the year prior.

Interestingly, salary rises alone are not enough to encourage employees to look for new opportunities. Nearly a third (32%) of employees state that work-life balance is the most important factor aside from salary when considering changing jobs. Thirty seven percent of those surveyed cite a lack of scope for progression within their current organisation and a further 21% referenced a lack of future opportunities with their current employer.

Commenting on the report, Managing Director Hays Ireland, Mike McDonagh said, "This years findings suggest employers have strong intentions to recruit both permanent and temporary staff in 2019. However, in an already skills-short market, this is set to further exacerbate the competition for talent."

He added, "The challenge for employers is escalated by organisations having to adapt ever-more quickly to the world around them. With political, economic, social and technological changes taking place more rapidly than ever before, employers are under pressure to move fast to capitalise on new opportunities. Of course, to do this they need ready access to a skilled workforce."

Source: www.businessworld.ieUPDATE Dec 15, 2008: Please see Tanta: In Memoriam for photos, remembrances, links to Tanta's writing, Tanta's charities and stories about her.







My dear friend and co-blogger Doris Tanta Dungey passed away early this morning. I would like to express my deepest condolences to her family and friends.



Photo: Tanta in 2004 (from her sister Cathy).

The blogger Tanta, an influential voice on the mortgage collapse, died Sunday morning in Columbus, Ohio.



Tanta, who wrote for Calculated Risk, a finance and economics blog, was a pseudonym for Doris Dungey, 47, who until recently had lived in Upper Marlboro, Md. The cause of death was ovarian cancer, her sister, Cathy Stickelmaier, said.

...

Tanta used her extensive knowledge of the loan industry to comment, castigate and above all instruct. Her fans ranged from the Nobel laureate Paul Krugman, an Op-Ed columnist for The New York Times who cited her in his blog, to analysts at the Federal Reserve, who cited her in a paper on Understanding the Securitization of Subprime Mortgage Credit.



She wrote under a pseudonym because she hoped some day to go back to work in the mortgage industry, and the increasing renown of Tanta in that world might have precluded that. Tanta was Ms. Dungeys longtime family nickname, Ms. Stickelmaier said.

I still havent gotten over the fact that theres a capital management group out there having named itself Cerberus. Those of you who were not asleep in Miss Buttkickers Intro to Western Civ will recognize Cerberus; the rest of you may have picked up the mythological fix from its reprise as Fluffy in the first Harry Potter novel. Wherever you get your culture, Cerberus is the three-headed dog who guards the gates of Hell. It takes three heads to do that of course, because its never clear, in theology or finance, whether the idea is to keep the righteous from falling into the pit or the demons from escaping out of it (the third head is busy meeting with the regulators).

An UberNerd is someone who is compelled to understand how things work in grim detail, even if the things in question are tedious in the extreme 

Tanta is one of the best financial writers in the world, and explains complex ideas with wit and great clarity."

The great thing about this age of blogs is the way people who really know something about a subject can quickly weigh in, without being filtered through Authority.

Several point raised in this section were first raised in a 20 February 2007 post on the blog http://calculatedrisk.blogspot.com/ entitled Mortgage Servicing for Ubernerds.

From David Streitfeld at the NY Times: Doris Dungey, Prescient Finance Blogger, Dies at 47 From CR to Tantas many readers, fans and internet friends: Tanta enjoyed writing for you, chatting with many of you in the comments, and corresponding with you via email. She told me several times over the last few months how much she enjoyed discussing current events with you.Tanta worked as a mortgage banker for 20 years, and we started chatting in early 2005 about the housing bubble and the changes in lending practices. In 2006, Tanta was diagnosed with late stage cancer, and she took an extended medical leave while undergoing treatment. At that time I approached her about writing for this blog, and she declined for a simple reason  her prognosis was grim and she didnt expect to live very long. To her surprise, after aggressive treatment, her health started to improve and she accepted my invitation. When she chose an email address, it reflected her surprise: tanta_vive ... Tanta Lives!Armed with a literary background and extensive knowledge of the mortgage industry, Tanta wrote about current events with deep insight and wit. Here is the introduction to one of her posts in 2006: Let Slip the Dogs of Hell Tanta wrote a number of posts detailing the inner workings of the mortgage industry. These posts covered a wide range of topics, from mortgage servicing, to everything you want to know about mortgage backed securities (MBS), to reverse mortgages. She called these posts  The Compleat UberNerd  and in typical fashion she noted:Tanta liked to ferret out the details. She was inquisitive and had a passion for getting the story right. Sometimes she wouldnt post for a few days, not because she wasnt feeling well, but because she was reading through volumes of court rulings, or industry data, to get the facts correct. She respected her readers, and people noticed.Felix Salmon at Conde Nast Portfolio.com, wrote on Nov 7, 2007 wrote:Paul Krugman at the NY Times complemented Tanta several times, recently writing Even researchers at the Federal Reserve referenced Tantas work: From Adam Ashcraft and Til Schuermann: Understanding the Securitization of Subprime Mortgage Credit , credit on page 13:Tanta was also extremely funny. She introduced the Muddled Index (MMI) and Excel Art featuring the Mortgage Pig , and she was the originator of a number of phrases in use today, like Were all subprime now!This is a very sad day and I know many of you are in shock. Tanta was our teacher. She generously shared her knowledge with all of us. I doubt she knew how many lives she touched; her insights, spirit and passion lives on in her writings  and in all of you.Tanta Vive!comment

Opponents of renewable power and action on climate change will no doubt be hailing the news that the ACT's move to 100 per cent renewable energy by 2020 will cost consumers the princely sum of about $4.90 per household per week ("The price of ACT's green power", December 3, p1 & p3). However, it must be borne in mind that as Australia's ageing coal-fired power stations reach the end of their useful lives, they will be replaced with more renewable energy. This is at least partly because power from renewable sources such as solar and wind will by 2020 be considerably cheaper than new coal-fired power. In fact, as James Allan (Letters, December 3) has pointed out, power from new solar and wind energy sources is already appreciably cheaper than coal-derived power. There will of course be those who claim that solar and wind power are not available 24 hours a day. That situation is also rapidly changing. For example, the huge Tesla battery in South Australia, which cost $90 million, has been responsible for savings of $50 million in its first year of operation. It has also been praised by the Australian Energy Market Operator for its "speed, versatility and accuracy" when stepping in to avert energy-supply crises such as that caused recently by a failure in the Loy Yang A brown-coal power plant in Victoria. The coal age is definitely coming to an end. Douglas Mackenzie, Deakin By canny investments while subsidies were high, the ACT now boasts that by "the end of this year, nearly 78 per cent of Canberra's electricity will come from renewable sources" and that this only caused an increase of "roughly 2 per cent of the total average bill." ("The price of ACT's green power", December 3, p1 & p3). This is encouraging for the total replacement of fossil-fuelled electricity. However the data is incomplete or global generation would be following Mr Rattenbury's idealistic model. Planners need a more complete analysis. As often stated, the claim that x per cent of the ACT's electricity comes from renewables is false. We might produce renewable electricity equal to x per cent of what we consume, but much of that is not available to us at the critical times of peak demand. Much of what we consume comes from fossil fuel. Current costings do not include grid extensions necessitated by new feed-ins on inadequate lines. They do not include parity adjustments to account for subsidies. They do not account for massive demand increases if transport moves online. Much is made of the pollution of fossil fuels but no consideration is given to the whole-of-life toxicity cost of renewable technologies, including the minor detail of chemical run-off from the cleaning agents used on untold square kilometres of solar arrays. The matter of stockpiled reserves has not been mentioned nor the vulnerability of distribution networks, both major strategic considerations. Much new development is needed. G. Wilson, Macgregor In reference to renewable energy, Graham Anderson (Letters, November 30) stated that wind is productive only 50 per cent of the time. More precisely, the Aneroid Energy website that publishes continuous data on wind energy production for all wind farms connected to the grid states that "on average wind farms in south-east Australia operate at a capacity factor of around 30-35 per cent". More to the point, for the seven days from the morning of November 24 to December 1 last, the capacity factor for all wind farms was 21 per cent. The productivity of wind farms in the different states followed similar patterns during that period when an extensive high-pressure weather system covered the region. This highlights the energy storage problems that the large-scale deployment of wind energy will bring. To take the case of Labor's 50 per cent renewables by 2030, and assuming that three quarters of that is attributed to a complement of wind turbines of size determined by the average capacity factor, a simple calculation shows that a back-up energy storage of 240 gigawatt hours would be required to deal with the situation that began on November 24. Further energy storage would be required to deal with the more regular 25 per cent capacity factor of solar panels. The only practical solution in sight is to retain all coal-fired generators for use as back up. Thus, as the conservatives have maintained, the cost of a rapid reduction in emissions will be so significant that there will be much economic pain ahead. J. Smith, Farrer The ongoing dispute about the validity of the ACT's 100 per cent renewable target has been missing some evidence-based statistics. Some claim that because the renewable supply is highly variable, the ACT is mostly relying on fossil fuel back-up. However, now that all the major wind and solar farms contracted to help the ACT meet its goal are at full capacity, we can delve into the data. The ACT has contracts with wind and solar farms from South Australia, NSW, Victoria and the ACT to achieve its renewable target. This diversity of supply has meant that at every instant during November there was significant generation from the contracted renewable generators. Indeed, 88 per cent of the time they were generating more than 100 megawatts, a power level equivalent to the average needs of 120,000 ACT homes. Expressed in a form consistent with the bank deposit analogy, the ACT has deposited 100 units of green electricity into the bank, equivalent to its annual needs. At some times, the wind and solar generation was high, and as a result, 22 of those 100 units were excess to ACT needs, and instead contributed to greening the electricity of other users. At other times, the wind and solar was insufficient to meet ACT demand, and 22 units had to be sourced from other generation. But the remaining 78 units were produced at a time consistent with ACT needs. The data demonstrate that a diverse mixture of wind and solar can meet most of our electricity needs. David Osmond, wind engineer, Dickson Now at 80 years of age and a political follower for the adult years, I have picked the outcome of every Federal election since the 1960s. So a message for PM Morrison: If you are a true Liberal and truly want to win the next election, it's just not going to happen. Shorten, despite personal unpopularity, will win. The only way to stop this is for you to stand down in favour of Julie Bishop. She is the only politician able to bring the Liberals back from the brink with a healthy majority despite their perceived failings. Don Davey, Launceston, Tas The CASA Director of Aviation Safety, Mr Shane Carmody (Letters, November 30) rightly points out that his organisation holds no responsibilities in respect of 'privacy or aviation impacts on general amenity'. CASA's sole remit relates to aviation safety. Directing criticism at CASA over issues outside the organisation's remit amounts to barking up the wrong tree. That said, when it comes to aviation safety, CASA may be found wanting in its stewardship over drone use. Despite having rules where drones can and cannot be flown, there are no protocols in place that guarantee the safe separation of drones in the proximity of residential areas  none. Avoidance of a collision between the drone of an increasing number of recreational users and a large commercial one is solely reliant on risk, which translates to 'chance'. A large commercial drone coming down in one's backyard could have fatal consequences, let alone potential property damage. No doubt, CASA will quote their '30 metre' rule in respect of recreational drone users avoiding property in rebuttal, and by way of mitigation. Two questions: Who polices this on the ground and not in the office? Secondly, if two drones collide at 100m, and the recreational user has obeyed the 30m rule, where is the guarantee that momentum won't bring a large commercial one down on a residential property? While the risk of collision, admittedly, is small, I wonder how many Canberrans would feel comfortable with the proposition that CASA sanctions a regime whereby the avoidance of a collision rests with chance. Over to you Mr Carmody. P. Reynolds, Gilmore The Pentagon is planning to make its soldiers "stronger and more resilient" by giving them personal equipment even more technologically advanced than what they carry now ("Pentagon looks to exoskeletons to build 'super soldiers'", December 3, p26). In Vietnam the US and its allies abandoned the field to an enemy that wore its pyjamas into battle. Currently, like us, they have conceded large swathes of territory in Afghanistan to a foe who apparently favours full-length dresses in combat. I have a feeling there's a moral somewhere in all this but I'm unable to articulate it. Bill Deane, Chapman Gareth Evans wants Australia to distance itself from the US, saying that our interests more closely align with China's. This parallels similar calls from the late PM Malcolm Fraser in his book Dangerous Allies, and more recently from Greens leader Richard Di Natale. Is it time for us to forget World War II Japanese bombing raids on Darwin, and acknowledge how different is the world of 2018? Should we not recognise the strategic importance to the US of its intelligence facilities here (Pine Gap) and the certainty of its determination to protect them against any invader, ANZUS or not. Should we not also recognise the geographic safety of our continent's location and the immense logistic difficulties any invading nation would have. Other neutral nations sharing land borders successfully refuse to rely on "great and powerful friends"  why must we when we have vast oceans as borders? In any case, our determination to over-populate Australia via immigration and baby bonus policies will achieve the same probable outcome any invader would want  the transfer of millions of surplus human beings to our apparently empty land. Vince Patulny, Kambah If you heard Lish Fejer interview Mick Mason on Your ABC 666 (Sunday Brunch, December 2), I hope you picked the crucial mathematical problem. Mick, a professional horse trainer, succeeded in preparing a wild horse, now known as Coolibah, for rehoming at the Australian Brumby Challenge 2016, for which he can be justifiably proud. Lish wanted to know how long it takes to do this, and what price homed-quality horses were sold for. That's two mathematical problems. Mick said it takes 150 days (that is five months), the same as he would spend on a tame horse  at one hour per day so the horse is not overloaded with new learning. Lish went on to mention the horses in the alpine country. Mick was sceptical about the estimates, but seemed to settle on about 3000 (while the official estimates are at least double that number). Problem one: if it takes five months to rehome one wild horse (Lish pointed out that's what they are called in The Man from Snowy River poem), how long would it take to rehome 3000 wild horses? Answer: 15,000 months or 1250 years. Problem two: Mick said the best quality horse at the Challenge sold for $4000, while the prices varied greatly for other horses. Fees for starting and training (online, not quoted by Mick) seem to run at about $60 per day. If one horse costs $60 x 150 Days = $9000 to train for rehoming, and it can be sold  at best  for $4000, who will pay the shortfall of $5000 each to rehome 3000 wild horses over 1250 years? Frank McKone, Holt I agree the Urgent Medical Treatment Bill should be passed, because it is a matter of decency that refugees on Manus and Nauru receive care from the Australian government. The UN High Commission for Refugees recently announced that the number of people forcibly displaced from their homes increased by 2.9 million in 2017, bringing the total to 68.5 million people. More than half are children. Among them are 25.4 million refugees, 40 million internally displaced people and 3.1. million asylum-seekers. In Lebanon, one in six of its residents is a refugee. In Jordan, refugees are 7 per cent of the total population and the government spends one-quarter of its revenues hosting them. Jordan is a good example of onshore processing of refugees that should be emulated by Australia. Treating them as people with medical conditions treatable in Australia would be a good start. Peter Graves, Curtin SELECT LITTLE GROUP I'd love to be a fly on the wall at the NSW Liberal Party supporters Christmas party this year. Oh imagine what the two of them would be squabbling about. Linus Cole, Palmerston KELLY A NAIL IN COFFIN Please preselect Craig Kelly. It would be another nail in the coffin of the climate-denying, inept and misogynistic Morrison-led rabble. Mike Quirk, Garran TAKING THE LEAD Liberal Party dogma: Don't think about what the Liberals did to you; think about what you can do for the Liberals. S.W. Davey, Torrens ROLE PLAY Was Malcolm Turnbull a cast member in that TV series, Revenge? T. Puckett, Ashgrove, Qld NOT A GOOD LOOK If Trump praises Morrison then it should be an absolute signal that Morrison has to go. E. R. Moffat, Weston ODD ALLUSION Say what you want to about Adani, its sense of timing is impeccable. And where did Minister Canavan get the idea that a company owned by an Indian billionaire is a "little Aussie battler"? John Ryan, Griffith MAKING A DIFFERENCE Some Liberal MPs may not be familiar with the fact that environmental education has always included acting for the environment, well beyond picking up litter. Climate change certainly qualifies. Murray May, Cook A TREASURE, OFFICIALLY It's hard to comprehend why UNESCO declared Jamaican reggae music to be an official cultural treasure. Surely all types of music are a cultural treasure? Rod Matthews, Fairfield, Vic DOG OWNERS THE ISSUE Usually the biggest problem with a problem dog is its owner. It is rather a lot like problem children really. H. Hutchins, Chirnside Park, Vic CANAVAN EDUCATIONAL The only lesson striking school students learned from Senator Matt Canavan's comments on their rallies demanding effective political action on global warming is that politicians say stupid things. P. Saunders, Chapman MERKEL MIRTH As our beaming, esteemed PM returns home from the G20 to accolades from his fellow conservatives, is that mocking laughter I hear from Angela Merkel, as she shuffles through her notes on the revolving door of Aussie prime ministers? Phyllis Vespucci, Reservoir, Vic Email: letters.editor@canberratimes.com.au. Send from the message eld, not as an attached le. Fax: 6280 2282. Mail: Letters to the Editor, The Canberra Times, PO Box 7155, Canberra Mail Centre, ACT 2610. Keep your letter to 250 words or less. References to Canberra Times reports should include date and page number. Letters may be edited. Provide phone number and full home address (suburb only published).

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The Barr government is likely to abandon plans to take the second stage of light rail past Old Parliament House, instead opting for a "compromise" route via State Circle. ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr made the announcement during a speech on Monday morning where he outlined the last two years in government and laid out his future priorities. It follows a report from the Joint Standing Committee on the National Capital and External Territories in October, which warned of time delays and cost blowouts in getting the project approved if the government chose to send light rail to Woden via Barton. At the time, Transport Minister Meegan Fitzharris said the government would nevertheless pursue the route, saying they'd always known it would take a more complicated approval process to get the project over the line. But on Monday, Mr Barr said he would not allow "perfect to be the enemy of good" in getting the Civic to Woden route approved, and that the light rail would likely instead go via State Circle. A final decision will be made after next year's federal election when the make-up of the new Parliament becomes clear. "The federal parliamentary committee has given a pretty clear indication of the fast-track to approvals and we'll focus on that as we move through the next stage of the project," Mr Barr said. "Obviously at the moment the priority is getting stage one operational but I'm fairly certain not long after that the community's attention will focus very clear on the next stages for the project given we are in the dying days of this current [federal] Parliament, we need to be ready as we move into a new Parliament after next year's election to get the project through the approval phase. "The bipartisan committee has given a pretty clear steer on that question particularly as it relates to State Circle so we'll focus on that particular part of the route where they've given some pretty clear guidance in regards to the next steps for us." Mr Barr said the State Circle route represented a compromise between the two options voted on by the public earlier this year and would be the "path of least resistance" in getting the project fast-tracked. He said it would shave minutes of the journey from Civic to Woden, although there were "risks" involved with the placement of stops. Parliament House architect Harold Guida told the parliamentary committee earlier this year the government had told him in a briefing a stop on the circle would require a lift to carry people up to Federation Mall between old and new Parliament House. The station could have been underground, Mr Guida said, with talk of building a parallel tunnel to the State Circle tunnel, with the lift appearing on Federation Mall on the side of the road, in the area taken up with small parking spots. However an ACT government spokeswoman said the Barton route was still a live -and preferred - option, based on extensive community consultation, technical analysis and discussions with a range of stakeholders, including the National Capital Authority. Transport Canberra officials also told the committee earlier this year the government had chosen to take light rail through Parkes and Barton as it would pass more employment hubs and cultural institutions, meaning more people would use the system. But Mr Barr said: "In the end there are inevitably compromises between the speed of the service and the amount of people you get a light rail stop close to." The National Capital Authority confirmed the route would not require a change to the National Capital Plan although would still need a heritage impact assessment and consideration by the Department of Environment and Energy and the Parliament as well as meeting design quality, landscape, moral rights and safety requirements. "The NCA will assess the new proposed route on the provision of the appropriate documentation," a spokeswoman said. Woden Valley Community Council president Fiona Carrick welcomed the news, saying common sense had prevailed. "While the Woden Valley Community Council does not have a position on whether light rail should be be built or not, should it we built we would prefer it to be a direct alignment. The direct alignment will provide better travel times than the dogleg will provide," Ms Carrick said. Inner South Canberra Community Council chair Marea Fatseas said she could understand why the government came to that compromise, given the complexity of the Barton route and that she hoped to see a cost-benefit analysis for the route soon. She also urged government to start work on an integrated transport and land use plan for the Civic to Woden corridor sooner rather than later to avoid the stage one scenario where the light rail project is almost complete but there is still no final City and Gateway Urban Design Framework. "With the rapid densification of the inner south comes the need also for better public transport and active travel options," Ms Fatseas said. ACT Property Council executive director Adina Cirson, who lobbied for a Capital Circle alignment, said developers who'd invested heavily in Woden would also welcome the alignment. "The Property Council believes stage two needs to be done as quickly as possible to provide certainty to developers in the Woden town centre, but also so a north-south public transport connection is in place as soon as possible," Ms Cirson said. "While we understand the importance of connecting Barton, we don't believe compromising the fastest way to Woden is the best way of doing that." Ms Cirson also said the new route set up the possibility of using the Parliamentary Triangle as an interchange point to build future public transport between the area and Kingston, Manuka and Canberra Airport. But Public Transport Association of Canberra Damien Haas labelled the announcement as "disappointing", saying the long term benefits of light rail would have been better realised with light rail deviating through Barton. "We understand that this compromise is necessary for the light rail to get to Woden - and eventually Tuggeranong - but the proposal to travel through Barton's national institutions and workplaces had incredible potential to reduce car dependency, ease parking pressures and provide direct access to many national institutions by tourists and Canberrans working there," Mr Haas said. "We agree this is the path of least resistance in attaining Commonwealth approvals for construction to occur, and trust this compromise is matched in spirit with a speedy approvals process to enable a business case to be prepared. We would like to see construction started as soon as possible."

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Jakarta: The high profile editor of a news website critical of controversial Philippines' president Rodrigo Duterte is facing five charges of tax fraud, but has vowed to keep holding the government to account. Maria Ressa, a co-founder and executive editor of Rappler.com was released on bail on Monday after learning a warrant had been issued for her arrest and voluntarily surrendering to the court. She posted 60,000 pesos ($1500) bail, following several hours of questioning, and returned to work. Ressa had just returned to the Philippines from the United States, where she was awarded the Committee to Protect Journalists Gwen Ifill press freedom award, and the International Centre for Journalists' Knight international journalism award. Rappler began life as a startup in 2012 with just a handful of journalists but has rapidly grown to have 100 journalists and a strong presence in the country's media landscape - and it has become a frequent target for criticism by President Duterte, who has accused it of being owned by foreigners, criticised it in his 2017 State of the Union Address, and even alleged it was funded by the CIA. Ressa said her news outlet had made its name through deep reporting on Duterte's hugely controversial drug war and his government's propaganda war that has led to the "weaponisation of social media. Rappler would not, she said, be deterred from its forensic reporting. "The police now admit to killing 5000 in their drug war. But an even larger number, about 20,000, they have been labelled homicide cases being investigated," she said. "We keep track of the death toll. And we point out when the government splits the figures [to give the appearance of a lower death toll]." "This 'special treatment' [of Rappler] only leads me to believe they want us to stop doing the work, the investigations we are doing. But we are not critics of the government, we just call a spade a spade". "We will continue doing what we are doing, holding the government to account including in the cases it has filed against us. These are politically motivated charges, we wont take our eyes off the ball." The government has accused Rappler of five cases of tax evasion and, in Ressa's words, essentially being a "dealer in securities". It has also accused it of earning income and not paying sufficient tax. That's because Rappler has two foreign investors - the Omidyar Network (set up by founder Pierre Omidyar), and North Base Media (set up by journalists Marcus Brauchli, Sasa Vucinic and Stuart Karle) - who have been issued Philippine Depositary Receipts (PDRs) to allow them to invest, but not have a say in, the running of the website. Last week a Philippines' court found three police officers guilty of killing a student they alleged was a drug dealer, in the first known such conviction under the president's deadly crackdown on drugs. President Duterte's crackdown, which has left thousands of suspects dead, reportedly in clashes with the police, has alarmed Western governments and U.N. rights experts and horrified human rights watchdogs. The volatile president has stressed he does not condone extrajudicial killings, although he has repeatedly threatened drug suspects with death and has assured police he would back them up in ways that human rights watchdogs say have encouraged law enforcers to act with impunity.

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The T-Cross SUV will be tailored to look more rugged for the Indian market compared to the global model

smallest SUV till date will rival the Hyundai Creta

Based on the soon-to-be localised MQB-A0 platform, the T-Cross is expected to be introduced here in late 2020

Brazil- and China-spec SUVs are bigger than the Euro-spec model

India-spec SUV is expected to be the same size as the Brazil/China-spec version, albeit with a more rugged look

Will be the first product for Volkswagen under its new India 2.0 product strategy

Pictured: 2016 VW T-Cross Breeze concept

As Volkswagen Group gears up to launch its next set of locally produced products under the 2020 India 2.0 business plan, the group has shed some light on the upcoming MQB-A0-based compact SUV, the T-Cross. The T-Cross, which made its debut simultaneously in Europe, China and Brazil in October, is finally heading to India, most likely by the end of 2020. Its expected to launch soon after Skodas made-for-India compact SUV based on the same platform. The Euro-spec T-Cross is smaller when compared to the Brazil- and China-spec SUV. There are also noticeable differences when it comes to the styling of all the three versions.

Volkswagen T-Cross (Brazil-spec) Volkswagen T-Cross (Euro-spec)

The Brazil-spec SUV looks like an elongated version of the Euro-spec model as they look nearly identical. The China-spec SUV, on the other hand, gets a significantly different front fascia and looks more rugged and muscular when compared to the other two. In fact, the China-spec T-Cross, which has been co-developed with SAIC (owner of MG), takes inspiration from VWs bigger SUVs such as the Altas and the Tharu, a Jeep Compass rival. We believe that the India-spec T-Cross could be inspired by the Chinese version. Irrespective of the top hat, the interior of all three versions are identical and it is likely to be the same case with the India-spec SUV as well.

Pictured: Volkswagen T-Cross (China-spec)

Skoda has been tasked by the VW Group for the India 2.0 plan and VW Groups head in India, Gurpratap Boparai, has given us various hints about India-spec T-Cross. While it is expected to be of the same size as the Brazil-spec SUV, it will be more rugged looking of the two. Boparai said, The Indian version (of the T-Cross) will be significantly different in terms of space, also how the Indian customer wants the SUV to be more rugged and muscular. The Indian T-Cross will be different from the Brazilian T-Cross.Our Promise: Welcome to Care2, the world's largest community for good. Here, you'll find over 45 million like-minded people working towards progress, kindness, and lasting impact.

Care2 Stands Against: bigots, racists, bullies, science deniers, misogynists, gun lobbyists, xenophobes, the willfully ignorant, animal abusers, frackers, and other mean people. If you find yourself aligning with any of those folks, you can move along, nothing to see here.

Care2 Stands With: humanitarians, animal lovers, feminists, rabble-rousers, nature-buffs, creatives, the naturally curious, and people who really love to do the right thing.

You are our people. You Care. We Care2.Sikkim Public Service Commission (SKPSC) has released an employment notification calling out aspirants to apply for the post of Dental Surgeon. Those interested can check out the eligibility, salary scale, how to apply and the complete details of the government job here.

The selection process will comprise a written test for which the syllabus is available online. The application fee costs INR 150. Selected candidates can earn up to industry standards. The last date to apply for this government job is Dec 23, 2018.

Bank Jobs 2018: BOB Recruitment 2018 For Sales Personnel

SKPSC Recruitment 2018 Vacancy Details

CRITERIA DETAILS Name Of The Posts Dental Surgeon Organisation Sikkim Public Service Commission Educational Qualification BDS from a recognised university Experience One year internship Skills Required Dentistry skills Job Location Sikkim Salary Scale Not mentioned Industry Medical Application Start Date November 30, 2018 Application End Date December 23, 2018

Age Limit: 21 to 45 years

Also Read: CMD, Kerala Recruitment 2018: Apply For Various Posts

How To Apply For SKPSC Recruitment 2018

In order to apply for SKPSC Recruitment 2018, follow these steps:

Step 1: Log on to the SKPSC official website.

Step 2: On the left hand side of the home page, click the button that reads, APPLY ONLINE.

Step 3: Click the link that reads, Click Here To Register.

Step 4: The application instructions will open. Read them carefully and click on the registration link.

Step 5: The registration form will be displayed on the screen. Enter your details in the fields provided.

Step 6: Enter the captcha code.

Step 7: Read the declaration and click on the checkbox to agree to it.

Step 8: Click Register and complete the registration process.

Step 9: Log in using your credentials and complete the application process.

Follow the link - http://www.spscskm.gov.in/new%20document/Dental%20Surgeon%20ADD.pdf to read the detailed official notification.Photo: The Canadian Press The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station, ISS, blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.

Canadian astronaut David Saint-Jacques blasted through the skies over Kazakhstan early Monday in what appeared to be a seamless launch of a Russian Soyuz rocket bound for the International Space Station.

The 48-year-old doctor and astronaut lifted off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome with Anne McClain of NASA and Oleg Kononenko of the Russian space agency, Roscosmos.

The launch of the Soyuz MS-11 spacecraft appeared to go exactly as planned at the precise liftoff time of 6:31 a.m. Eastern.

"We have liftoff," a commentator said on NASA television as the rocket roared into the sky under 930 pounds of thrust and a speed of 1,770 kilometres per hour. "Everything looking good, vehicle is stable  good first stage performance."

The crew reported that all went well in those critical initial minutes after liftoff and were safely in orbit.

Back on Canadian soil, a crowd monitored the launch from the Canadian Space Agency in Longueuil, Que., as the rocket began its roughly six-hour transit to the space station.

Innovation Minister Navdeep Bains praised the successful takeoff and said the mission offers an exciting opportunity for scientific research and developments that could have broad applications, in such things as robotics and aging.

"Space represents a lot of opportunities for a lot of Canadians," he said at the agency office. "It really is inspirational what David represents...today is an incredible day in space."

Astronaut Jenni Sidey-Gibbons echoed the message, saying Saint-Jacques was a special role model for her and other young people who may be considering a future in space.

"That was particularly important for me when I was growing up and I certainly wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for Canada's early space program and, kind of, the heroes that pushed that forward," she said. "It's incredible."

It was the first manned Russian rocket launch since a dramatic aborted Soyuz failure in October.

On Oct. 11, a rocket failure forced a Soyuz capsule carrying two astronauts to abort and make an emergency landing.

Russia suspended all manned space launches pending an investigation before giving the green light Nov. 1.

Saint-Jacques has spent years training for the six-month mission, which was originally scheduled for Dec. 20 but was moved up after the aborted Soyuz launch.

Aboard the station, he will conduct a number of science experiments, with some focusing on the physical effects of the weak gravity astronauts experience in orbit as well as how to provide remote medical care.Photo: The Canadian Press

Residents in central Illinois on Sunday assessed the damage after rare December tornadoes, including one the day before that was a half-mile-wide, ripped roofs off homes, downed power lines and injured at least 20 people.

The severe weather in Illinois was part of a line of thunderstorms that raked areas of the central U.S. late Friday and into Saturday, killing one person in Missouri. The National Weather Service confirmed tornadoes in Illinois, Missouri and Oklahoma.

At least three tornadoes were confirmed in northwest and southwest Arkansas, which largely caused property and structural damage. No injuries or fatalities were reported.

Peak months for tornadoes in much of the Midwest are April and June, according to the weather service. But at least 12 tornadoes were reported in Illinois on Saturday, including one in Taylorville which has been confirmed. If the majority are confirmed, that would be the most tornadoes in Illinois in a December storm since Dec. 18-19, 1957, when there were 21.

The weather service sent crews Sunday to survey the hardest-hit areas in Illinois, which included Taylorville, 25 miles southeast of Springfield.

Photographs and video from Taylorville showed several houses flattened, with residents wading into debris to salvage what they could. Some homes remained standing but with gaping holes in the roofs or with no roofs at all.

The tornado was on the ground for around 10 miles before it thundered through Taylorville, and the weather service was able to warn residents of its arrival 41 minutes before it actually struck, Chris Miller, a meteorologist at the service's Lincoln office, said in a phone interview Sunday. That advanced warning gave people critical time to take cover and may have saved lives.

Assistant Fire Chief Andy Goodall, speaking to reporters Saturday night shortly after the storm pounded the city of 11,000, said at least 100 homes had major damage.Are you lost in the wild?

Sorry, but the page you're looking for has not been found

Try checking the URL for errors, goto home or try to search below.CDC Directors Statement on Life of Betty Bumpers

Press Release For Immediate Release: Saturday, December 1, 2018

Contact: CDC Media Relations

(404) 639-3286

CDC today celebrates the life of one of the greatest heroes of public health America has ever known  Betty Bumpersexternal icon.

As First Lady of Arkansas, Mrs. Bumpers was shocked to learn that her state had one of the lowest childhood immunization rates in the Nation. Her Every Child by 74 immunization campaign brought together partners from government, academia, and the private sector. Her state soon had one of the highest immunization rates in the United States.

The program was so successful that CDC used it as the model for a national immunization campaign.

During the Carter presidency, Mrs. Bumpers informed the President that only 17 states required immunization for school entry. Working with First Lady Rosalynn Carter, Mrs. Bumpers tirelessly campaigned in all states in one of the most successful public health campaigns in American history.

Eventually all states adopted this requirement. Because of Mrs. Bumpers efforts, more than 95 percent of American children today are protected against what once were the most dreaded childhood diseases.

We at CDC mourn the passing of this great American. Her accomplishments will continue to be an inspiration to everyone working in public health.

Robert R. Redfield, MD, Director, Centers for Disease Control and PreventionHuaxin Cement seeks funding for US$140m project

03 December 2018

Huaxin Cement Co Ltd is seeking the assistance of international banks to close funding on its US$140m plant in Nepal, after it secured a US$30m loan from the Export-Import Bank of China (EIBC), according to Inside International Industrials.



Nanjing Golden Cement Technology Engineering Co has been confirmed as the project design firm. The design of the 3500tpd facility is expected to be completed before March 2019, with the funding also expected before then.



The company plans to add one or two more plants in Nepal over the next two years, with local infrastructure projects driving demand.

Published underNew Rudny plant to start export to Russia

ICR Newsroom By 03 December 2018

A new US$100m cement plant was launched in Rudny, Kostanay region, Kazakhstan, to meet the requirements of the domestic cement industry as well as Russias southern regions, Kazakh media reported. By the end of the year, the works plans to produce 17,200t of cement.

"We plan to get the first products within five days. There is already a buyer for cement  from Ufa (Russia). They are ready to purchase about 200,000-300,000t of cement, that is 50 per cent of the design capacity of the plant, Artem Maklasov, the plants director said.

The plant employs currently 190 people but will be able to employ 304 when operating at full capacity.









Published underAbdul Razak urged Sialkot exporters to boost national exports

Adviser to Prime Minister for Commerce, Textile, Industries, Production and Investment Abdul Razak Dawood has urged Sialkot exporters to make strategic thinking to boost the national exports.



Addressing a meeting of exporters at the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) on Sunday, he said that the government was making proper planning, evolving effective and positive policies to boost industrial sector, besides taking business community into confidence for ensuring complete implementation on business and investment-friendly policies in the country.



SCCI President Khawaja Masud Akhtar, SVP Waqas Akram Awan, Sialkot exporters leader Riazuddin Sheikh, local senior TDAP and FBR officials and SCCIs former presidents, SVPs and VPs also attended the meeting.



Dawood said that the government was making all out sincere efforts to ensure doing business easy in Pakistan. He added that the government would soon abolish all duties and taxes on import of raw material.



He announced his full support for early establishment of special economic zone in Sialkot, and added that Pakistan should also work on reverse engineering on the module of China and Japan. He asked Sialkot exporters to start their own branding in South Africa and African countries as well.



The PMs aide said that the issue of 5 percent regulatory duty on the import of polyester yarn and seven percent anti-dumping duty would be resolved this month.



He said that the government was fully aware of problems being faced by the business community, adding that the government was making all-out efforts for early solution to these problems.PLAAF arrived in Pakistan

A contingent of Peoples Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) arrived in Pakistan on Sunday to participate in Pak-China Joint International Air Exercise Shaheen-VII being held at an operational air base of the Pakistan Air Force.



The PLAAF contingent comprises combat pilots, air defence controllers and technical ground crew along with fighter jets, bombers and early warning AWACS planes.



According to a statement, the exercise will help enhance close relations between the two countries in general and develop mechanism for interoperability of both air forces in particular. The Pakistan Air Force regularly undertakes exercises with air forces of friendly countries. Shaheen-VII is the seventh in the series of joint air exercises with the PLAAF, which is conducted each year in both countries on alternative basis. A PAF contingent had participated in Shaheen-VI conducted in China last year.Just as Chattanooga had risen from near annihilation after the American Civil War, we were again in need of economic resuscitation following the conclusion of World War I, some 53 years later. Today is a very appropriate time to reflect on that very destructive event - especially, as the centennial celebration of its ending has just passed: November 11th of this year.

Earlier, when the Civil War ended in 1865, Chattanooga was an absolutely broken and destitute city; it would take a lot of money and vision to pull us out of our war-time dilemma.

Vintage photos (as found in John Wilson's many books on Chattanooga) show a city that looked like what we see in movies of the "Old West", where alternately muddy or dusty streets are unpaved, and sidewalks - if any - are crude boardwalks of rough lumber. (Our Market Street was notoriously muddy because of flooding before TVA came into existence around 1940). Formerly thriving family farms all around Chattanooga had been wrecked and stripped of all their edible crops by both Northern and Southern armies as they foraged through the area. Impoverished farm families were left as refugees on their own land.

Slow to recover from its Civil War wounds, Chattanooga was overdue for a good infusion of money and creativity to bring new industries and jobs. For by 1920 the barely surviving local farms found themselves to be too small to compete with the much larger farms of the "wide open spaces" of Texas and Kansas (as witnessed by my own family). The main cash crop was still cheap cotton, as it had been for well over 100 years. My dad, born 1884, had seen his farmer-boy cousins move west to Texas, and later saw himself virtually forced out of farming, deciding instead to follow another cousin into postal work in Chattanooga. Dad gladly gave up the plow (and still un-married at age 29) hustled off to work at the Chattanooga post office (for 41 years!). He remembered that he hired into that job for the grand sum of 30 cents per hour, tripling his 10 cent per hour farm wage! That was in 1913, and a few years later he was delivering mail to all the important businesses around town, including to the brand new town called "Lupton City".

One of our new industries - as of 1920 - which probably came into existence in large part due to the plentiful labor provided by returning World War I veterans, was "Dixie Mercerizing Company", located at that newly created place called Lupton City. Dixie certainly needed "associates", as employees were euphemistically later called, just as much as the returning war vets needed steady work. The very word, "mercerizing" must have had a curious effect on local people of the day, signifying something new and wonderful - much as the words "digital" and "cyber" have had on my own generation. But what did it mean in the first place? As an octogenarian I can remember that original name, "Dixie Mercerizing Company", but had no clue as to what "mercerizing" meant until doing research for this story: it seems that a self-educated British chemist, John Mercer, had taught himself the new process back in Dickensian times. Using a chemistry textbook, he taught himself how to refine the texture of raw cotton from rough to smooth while strengthening the fibers in the process. This treatment also encouraged the fibers to accept permanent dyes more readily than in the past. All these factors were to change the textile industry forever: the new process appropriately became known as "Mercerizing" in honor of its discoverer. Cotton was plentiful and very cheap in the Tennessee Valley of 1920, as was water transportation. These factors, all working together, made Chattanooga an easy candidate for becoming a new industrial hub of textile production. Thanks to both Mercer and Dixie, Milady could now have an expensive looking pair of "silk" stockings, which were in reality made out of much less expensive cotton!

Some well-known local hosiery executives, principal among them the owners of Dixie Spinning Mills, soon joined the Lupton family to form the new company. Luptons provided land for the new plant in its North Chattanooga location. A small town in its own right, it included some 72 homes, a company school with playground, and even a new post office known as "Lupton City". As of December 29th, 1920, Dixie Mercerizing Company, Inc., went online officially in the "Textiles and Apparels" industry. J. Burton Frierson, company treasurer in the 1920's and later company president after World War II, expanded the company and set new goals. One such expansion was into the area of carpet weaving with the purchase of Dalton Candlewick, already one of the country's most advanced manufacturers of yarn for carpets. Candlewick's carpet yarns would ultimately lead Dixie into its most productive years. Other acquisitions were yet to come, and that story alone could supply Hollywood or Netflix with enough new seasons of series-worthy scripts to last for years! When J. Burton Frierson stepped down from his long tenure as CEO, the company leadership was handed off to son, Dan Frierson, who is still at the helm. as Chairman of the Board. The original strategy of these two men seems to have been to simply dress "old" traditional cotton in new clothes - to make it more appealing to both see and touch. Along the way they learned how to make it stretchable, as well - a really great feature in my own personal opinion. (I still prefer the soft feel of slightly stretching cotton material to all other clothing fabrics). But Dixie was gradually creating a totally new new area of expertise for itself: that of floor coverings.

Something I very much like about present Dixie Chairman Frierson is his uncanny ability to tell about the inevitable failures and mistakes the company has suffered through the years. That ability has probably been much to their advantage, however, as they have been able to face adversity with a clear eye. A good amount of creativity also went into both Friersons' work: the ability to see that when Asian markets were threatening, and underselling, Dixie's products they did not try to compete with them in "cheap", but simply promoted their high end products instead, In that process, they also found that they could save 10-15 percent by such useful maneuvers as simply manufacturing their own threads and yarns.

Dixie Mercerizing Company changed its original name to Dixie Yarns in 1964, and later to The Dixie Group. They found profitability more recently in various niche markets such as mats and carpets for mobile homes, RV's, etc. Early acquisitions, such as one with North Carolina's Durham Hosiery Mill (1936), helped Dixie remain afloat during the Great Depression. This new company later experimented with and developed "miracle fibers" which supplied millions of shoe laces to the fighting American soldiers of World War II, and long before Velcro was ever dreamed of! The Dixie Group became so successful through its acquisitions that entire fleets of trucks were needed to make pick-ups and deliveries among all their far-flung locations.

In looking through some of the company's literature I am astounded to learn that in 1980 Dixie Yarns had about 5,000 workers employed in 17 plants scattered through five states. By 1999, the Dixie Group had acquired an army of four powerhouse companies: Masland (of Mobile, Alabama), Carriage Carpets (of Calhoun, Georgia), Bretlin, (also of Calhoun, Georgia) and the already mentioned Candlewick Yarns (of Dalton, Georgia). 1999 was the year, however, that Dixie severed its long association with "textiles" to re-invent itself as a source for quality floor coverings. Long on the way, old ties were broken and the company entered a brand new era........

This story was inspired originally by the re-discovery of an ancient wooden spindle given to my mother by a dear maiden aunt who worked for Dixie in its earliest days. That aunt, "Linnie" Smith, was active as a seamstress, mainly, in both the former Miller Brothers and Lovemans department stores, but was employed for some time at Dixie Mercerizing Company in Lupton City. The old spindle became a fixture in my mom's sewing box as some of the original thread was still in place, and short pieces of it could be used for mending socks, etc. It has endured numerous puncturings as a pin-cushion as well, plus the destructive tendencies of a small boy (me!) many decades ago. That same ancient spindle from "Dixie" might yet inspire another story in the future: who knows? The entire "Dixie" story is so long and so diverse that many another "episode" could be spun off at any time - and I would like to be the one who writes them!

~Chester Martin





When we are each remembered upon our deaths and, oh, we will all be remembered, it may help to know that the deceased, grand or small, has absolutely no say-so, no recourse. No, memories are left to our friends and foe alike and there have been countless times in my existence when the departed would not like what they would hear.

As I gave our departed 41st President an extra brush in my Morning Readings over the weekend, I discovered George H.W. Bush had a very unique and singular attribute when compared to our other presidents, both past and present: He was nice. Imagine that! Who, in their wildest dream, would have thought among the greatest virtues, instead of yesterdays habit, would be kindness to others?

First, that may sound silly, trite in todays increasingly antagonistic society, but  think about this: What could possibly be a better compliment in any eulogy than to laud ones kindness, and the art of being nice. Jon Meachams book, Destiny and Power, shows repeatedly how our 41st president, who will lie in state this week, got more done with kindness as our nations leader than he could have ever hoped otherwise.

He was the last known President who had the ability to successfully navigate the aisle, that no mans land in Washington that for all practical purposes seems to be boarded up these days. Bob Corker said it well: He befriended his political foes, reminding Americans that there is always more that unites us than divides us."

In his book, Rule and Ruin, Geoffrey Kabaservice writes about the nigh-extinct tribe of moderate Republicans and clearly identifies why, through Bushs two terms as Vice President under Ronald Reagan, and then his own Presidency, Congress thrived as it should. A lot of them had fought in World War II and they looked at each other not as partisan enemies, but people who had been comrades in arms."

Following World War II, there was an intense patriotism that demanded country first. Bush, a World War II hero who was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross at age 20, showed his colors early when he enlisted immediately after high school instead of enrolling at Yale. It was a red, white, and blue thing. Your country's attacked, you'd better get in there and try to help," he told Meacham.

The World War II generation had a sense of serving the country together and also shared a belief in professionalism, said Jeremi Suri, a University of Texas historian. "Bush was the last president who believed that people who had knowledge and experience should make decisions based on that and not on their ideological views," he explained.

"It was a businessman's approach to making decisions about leadership. You appoint and promote the person who's most qualified over the person you might agree with more."

Heres an excerpt from NPRs Alan Greenblatts narrative that aired Friday:

* * *

GEORGE H.W. BUSH CAPITALIZED ON KINDNESS TO BUILD RELATIONSHIPS

His 1988 race against Democrat Michael Dukakis became notorious for an ugly ad showcasing rapist and murderer Willie Horton. After questioning the patriotism of Democrat Bill Clinton in 1992, Bush said, "You can call it mud wrestling, but I think it's fair to put it into focus."

He was willing to say what he thought was necessary as a candidate, but in office, Bush maintained a strict sense of patrician decorum.

"He saw himself as a deal-maker, not as someone who had all the right answers," Suri says. "There was a humility about him that's been lost on both sides of the aisle."

The importance of building up relationships was an ethos Bush brought not only to domestic politics, but also to international affairs, which became his major focus as president. He had come to know many foreign leaders through his service as vice president, CIA director, ambassador to the United Nations and envoy to China.

What Bush biographer Tom Wicker called his "matchless personal acquaintance" with world leaders helped him form a large coalition to repel Iraq after its 1990 invasion of Kuwait and also shaped his response to a series of revolutions in Europe that led to the end of the Cold War.

Bush quietly gave space to Mikhail Gorbachev, president of the Soviet Union, to allow that country to adjust to the decline in its fortunes and influence. Bush did not threaten, make grandiose pronouncements or gloat, Robert Gates wrote in his memoir From the Shadows. Gates was Bush's CIA director and later became secretary of defense under Bush's son and President Barack Obama.

* * *

On Sunday an article appeared on The Week website where Matthew Walther wrote: Bush was the last important politician to embody all the old WASP virtues  decency, stoicism, self-denial, gentle wit, skepticism, and courtesy  and, at the time of his death, our greatest living president.

On CNNs State of the Union yesterday, former Secretary of State James A. Baker said, George Bush was possibly the most kind and considerate person Ive ever known in my life.

Host Jake Tapper asked Baker whether the era of civility in politics died with Bush on Friday. I hope it didnt die on Friday, because we badly need to bring some civility back into our public discourse, came the reply. We need to stop yelling at each other and start listening to each other. George Bush had a Congress that was totally controlled by Democrats, and look what he got done.

Precisely. He was nice. He was kind. And while we see some of both fleeting, perhaps the memory of what George the Senior once attained during his remarkable life will one day return to Washington and greatly benefit the American people.

* * *

A COLLECTION OF SOME OF GEORGE H.W. BUSHS BEST QUOTES

* -- There is a God and He is good, and his love, while free, has a self-imposed cost: We must be good to one another.

* - Courage is a terribly important value. It means you dont run away when things are tough. It means you dont turn away from a friend when he or she is in trouble. It means standing up against the majority opinion... Theres a lot of people who wont wear it on their sleeve, or display it through some heroic act. But courage is having the strength to do whats honorable and decent.

* -- We know what works: Freedom works. We know what's right: Freedom is right. We know how to secure a more just and prosperous life for man on Earth: through free markets, free speech, free elections and the exercise of free will unhampered by the state.

* -- America is never wholly herself unless she is engaged in high moral principle. We as a people have such a purpose today. It is to make kinder the face of the Nation and gentler the face of the world.

* -- I'm conservative, but I'm not a nut about it.

* -- I have nothing but contempt and anger for those who betray the trust by exposing the name of [CIA] sources. They are, in my view, the most insidious, of traitors.

* -- Our nation is the enduring dream of every immigrant who ever set foot on these shores, and the millions still struggling to be free. This nation, this idea called America, was and always will be a new world -- our new world.

* -- I don't know that atheists should be considered as citizens, nor should they be considered patriots. This is one nation under God.

* -- I will never apologize for the United States  I don't care what the facts are.... I'm not an apologize-for-America kind of guy.

* -- I do not like broccoli and I haven't liked it since I was a little kid and my mother made me eat it. And I'm President of the United States and I'm not going to eat any more broccoli.

royexum@aol.comFor the 6th consecutive year, Linda Huguelet, co-leader of the Chattanooga Multiple Myeloma Networking Group, is joining over 20,000 hematologists and healthcare professionals from around the world at the 60th American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting and Exposition in San Diego, Ca. Dec. 1-3. Ms. Huguelet was selected by the International Myeloma Foundation from over 150 support group leaders in the United States. She will be one of 12 support group leaders on the IMFs team this year.

While at the conference, Ms. Huguelet is being brought up-to-date on the latest research, therapies, and tools available to myeloma patients. In turn, she is reporting the news to patients back home, using social media tools like blogs, Twitter, and video. You can follow her on Twitter at @LindaMYELOMA.

The IMF is the oldest and largest organization dedicated to improving the life and care of myeloma patients around the world. Myeloma, also called multiple myeloma, is a cancer of cells in the bone marrow that affects production of red cells, white cells and stem cells and can damage bone. Its currently incurable and is being contracted by an increasing number of people and is particularly affecting younger people.

Ms. Huguelet, a Signal Mountain resident, has been dealing with myeloma for over eight years and has taken numerous treatments since her diagnosis. Many myeloma patients, like Ms. Huguelet, are constantly on some type of therapy to keep the cancer under control. She changed treatments earlier this year and is being treated with a relatively new immunotherapy drug that was not even on the horizon in 2010 when she was diagnosed.

She said, I am so thankful for the continued successful research that is bringing additional treatment options to veteran patients like me. There are a number of new methods of attacking myeloma being presented at the conference this year.

She will pass along the highlights of the encouraging research taking place when the Chattanooga Multiple Myeloma Networking Group meets after the first of the year. The Chattanooga Multiple Myeloma Networking Group meets the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. Meetings are held at the Memorial Center for Cancer Support located next to Memorial Hospital.

Visit MyelomaChattanooga.org for more information on the group which provides information and support to patients and caregivers in the Chattanooga area.





Portobello America, Inc. announced Monday that the company will locate its U.S. headquarters and first U.S. production facility in Baxter. The ceramic tile manufacturer will create 220 jobs and invest approximately $150 million in Putnam County, which represents the largest announcement in Baxter during the Governor Bill Haslam administration.

Portobellos decision to locate its new production facility and U.S. headquarters and create more than 200 in Baxter will be transformational for the community, Governor Haslam said. In Tennessee, we have created a business-friendly environment that promotes growth in all of our communities across the state and I appreciate Portobello for seeing what great assets Tennessee and Putnam County have to offer. I look forward to seeing this company succeed in our state and with investments like this, Tennessee will lead in the creation of high-quality jobs.

I appreciate Brazil-based Portobello for selecting Tennessee as the home of its first U.S. production facility and its new U.S. headquarters, Department of Economic and Community Development Bob Rolfe said. Tennessee places a major emphasis on foreign direct investment and Brazilian companies have been a great investment partners in Tennessee. There are 13 Brazilian companies currently located in our state, employing approximately 2,000 Tennesseans. I thank Portobello for making this major announcement in Baxter and for creating 220 new high quality, family-wage jobs in Putnam County.

Portobello, headquartered in Brazil, is the largest tile manufacturer in Brazil. The company serves countries on five continents and internal markets through multi-brand retailers, the Portobello Shop franchise and sales channel for engineering. Portobello has more than 2,600 employees, responsible for the design and innovation of items that launch trends in architecture and interior design in Brazil, said officials.

Growing and developing in the American market, incorporating the local culture, generating job opportunities and investments through an integrated business model, from production to partnership with distributors, is what guides this new challenge, Portobello President Cesar Gomes, Junior said. We are proud to present Portobello America. We believe in the strategy, the market potential and, above all, the combination of our know-how with the American team and culture."

Portobello will locate its new operations on the Tennessee Motor Speedway site in Putnam County, where the company will build a new facility. Construction on the facility is set to be complete by 2021.

Portobello represents the largest capital investment for a manufacturing project in our countys history, and we thank them for becoming our newest economic development partner, Putnam County Mayor Randy Porter said. Im proud of all the work that went into getting us to this point and our team is ready to continue working with Portobello for many years to come.

"I want to thank Portobello for committing to the future of Baxter, Baxter Mayor John Martin said. We have been dedicated to growing our city for a long time and Im so proud that were seeing the fruits of the work that weve put in. We look forward to a long partnership that will create tremendous economic impact for our citizens.

We thank Portobello for committing to investing in our region and for the over 200 jobs they will be creating. Weve had our eye on this market segment for some time and we couldnt think of a better company than Portobello to join our community, Highlands Economic Partnership President and CEO George Halford said.

TVA and Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation congratulate Portobello on its decision to locate its first US manufacturing facility in Putnam County, said TVA Senior Vice President of Economic Development John Bradley. Helping to facilitate job creation if fundamental to TVAs mission of service and we are proud to partner with Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, Highlands Economic Development Partnership, City of Baxter, Putnam County, and Portobello to help further that mission.





Jonathan McKenney, a bus driver for schools on Signal Mountain, received an I Am Hamilton t-shirt for keeping children safe on the bus ride home from school. The district presents the special shirts to individuals for efforts that "positively impact Hamilton County Schools and the children they serve."



A parent wrote Hamilton County Schools to commend Mr. McKenney for his quick thinking that kept her son safe on his way home from school recently. The parent wrote that it was an afternoon like most when it was time for her son to get home from school. The dogs were going nuts because it was time for their boy to get home. On this day, the bus stopped, but a car did not and passed the bus where the child would normally be when getting off the bus.



Mr. McKenney told Charlie to wait because he saw the SUV coming, the parent wrote. If Jonathan McKenney had not been watchful or if he had been too rushed, Charlie would have been in the road when the car passed the bus.



The parent wrote about how Mr. McKenney rewards the children weekly for good behavior and encourages them to look out for each other and to do great things at school. Words are not adequate to express how thankful our family is to have this dedicated man as our bus driver, the parent wrote.



I am Hamilton spotlights the contributions of alumni, teachers, parents, students, support workers and community members, providing opportunities for children in the classrooms of Hamilton County Schools.

"Better opportunities for children today mean a brighter future filled with possibilities for our graduates, their families, and the community," officials said. "If you know someone worthy of recognition in the 'I am Hamilton' series, let us know. Send a short message that describes the difference the person makes in the lives of children each day in Hamilton County Schools. Include the persons name, connection to Hamilton County Schools, your name and your connection to Hamilton County Schools. Send the nomination to communications@hcde.org. Your nomination could be the next 'I am Hamilton.'"





Free flu shots will be given away across Tennessee on Wednesday. The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department will operate a drive-through clinic at the old Bi-Lo, 4825 Dayton Blvd. in Red Bank. Free clinics will also be held in each of the surrounding Southeast TN counties. To find the clinic nearest you, visit the Tennessee Department of Healths website , where you can search by address or by map.Getting a flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself, your family and others from the flu and help keep our community healthy, said Connie Buecker, Hamilton County Health Department manager of Communicable Disease Clinics, The flu can make you very sick, keep you away from work, school and other activities, put you in the hospital or even take your life.We urge everyone who has not received a flu shot yet to get one now, and this event is a great time to do it.The Red Bank drive-through clinic site will operate on Wednesday from noon-6 p.m. It is free and more than one person can be in a vehicle. American Sign Language and Spanish interpreters will be on site. Participants are asked to wear short-sleeves or loose fitting clothing so they can easily access the upper arm. Tents will cover the drive-up lanes in the event of bad weather. People who are ill that day, especially those with a fever or those whose health care provider advised them not to receive a flu vaccination, should not participate in this clinic. Pets other than service animals should be left at home."Seasonal influenza activity is beginning to spread and will continue for months," officials said. "It is important for anyone over six months of age who has not had a flu shot this flu season to get one now. The flu vaccine is especially important for infants, young children, pregnant women, adults over age 50 and those with chronic medical conditions. The flu shot remains the best protection against influenza."The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department is using its emergency preparedness plans to conduct this flu vaccine clinic. Staff will be demonstrating their readiness and capacity to distribute vaccinations, medications, or other supplies in the event of a large-scale health emergency. Staff will be easily marked with vests and ID badges.The Health Department would like to recognize the partner agencies assisting with this operation: B&B Discount Sales for allowing use of the property; Hamilton County Sheriffs Office for providing public safety and traffic control onsite; Chattanooga Fire Department and Hamilton County Hazmat for providing equipment; Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management & Homeland Security for support; and Tennessee Department of Transportation for signage.For additional information about the Hamilton County drive-through flu vaccination clinic only, call 423-209-8340. For information about clinics outside of Hamilton County, visit the map link for phone numbers to the respective counties.Education Commissioner Candice McQueen announced today that Tennessee will award $8.25 million in Priority school grants to 10 schools over the next three years that are among the lowest-performing schools in the state. These grants will provide funding to support specific strategies for school improvement in alignment with both district plans and the states Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) plan.



Schools that were named to the states 2018 Priority school list or identified for comprehensive support and improvement (CSI) were eligible to apply for this competitive grant.



It is imperative that we provide additional support to schools that serve our students who are furthest behind and believe it is important to allow districts the autonomy to leverage what works in their local schools, Comm. McQueen said. With this grant, we are focusing on the areas that are most critical in turning around high-needs schools  strong leadership, talent management, effective instruction, and student support  and investing in schools that show the most promise for improving student outcomes through these areas.



These grants are provided through Title I funds from the U.S. Department of Education and must be used to support the states Priority and CSI schools. Through a competitive application process, 10 schools were selected to receive funding up to $275,000 per year for three years to implement the turnaround plans they outlined in their applications. They are:



 Antioch Middle School, Metro Nashville Public Schools

 Calvin Donaldson Elementary School, Hamilton County Schools

 Georgian Hills Achievement Elementary School, Achievement School District

 Orchard Knob Middle School, Hamilton County Schools

 LEAD Neelys Bend Middle School, Achievement School District

 Libertas at Brookmeade, Achievement School District

 Memphis Scholars Raleigh Egypt, Achievement School District

 McKissack Middle School, Metro Nashville Public Schools

 McMurray Middle School, Metro Nashville Public Schools

 The Howard School, Hamilton County Schools



In addition to the Priority school grant, more than $26 million in funding for Priority and CSI schools has been made available to districts through four other grant opportunities.Governor Bill Haslam on Monday announced TennCare Director Dr. Wendy Long will leave state service in January. The Metropolitan Board of Health of Nashville and Davidson County has selected Dr. Long as the new director of health, pending contract approval by the Metropolitan Council.

Gov. Haslam appointed Dr. Long in June 2016 as the director of TennCare after she previously served in other executive positions within the agency including deputy director and chief medical officer. Dr. Long has 14 years of service to TennCare and more than 30 years to Tennessee State Government. Dr. Longs state service includes working as assistant commissioner at the Tennessee Department of Health where she oversaw a wide variety of programs and services including maternal and child health, communicable disease control, and the operation of local and regional health departments throughout the state.



Wendy has a passion for the work she does and that is evident in her dedication to improving the health care system in our state, Gov.

Haslam said. In a time when health care is constantly changing and health care costs are on the rise, Dr. Long and her team have maintained one of the lowest Medicaid cost trends in the nation. I am grateful for Wendys many years of service and know she will continue to do great things for the citizens of our state in her service to Metro Government.

Under Dr. Longs leadership TennCare has continued to be recognized as one of the top Medicaid programs in the country. Serving 1.3 million Tennesseans, TennCare has been recognized nationally for its innovation and success in utilizing a managed care model while also implementing payment and delivery system reform.



It has been an honor and privilege to serve as TennCares director for these past few years, Dr. Long said. Ive worked alongside some incredibly dedicated and knowledgeable individuals during my tenure with the TennCare program. While I am eager to join Metro Government in my new role as director of health I know that the work of TennCare will continue to provide high-quality, cost effective care to Tennesseans.



Dr. Long and her husband Rick, also a long-time state employee with the Tennessee Department of Health, have two grown children and one grandson.



Dr. Long will continue as the director of TennCare through mid-January.

NAIROBI, Kenya, November 30, 2018 (Morning Star News)  Officers arrested six pastors in eastern Uganda on Saturday (Nov. 24) after hundreds of Muslims, furious over a public talk comparing Christianity with Islam, descended on the local police station, sources said.

Following a series of public events earlier this month at which mosque leaders criticized Christianity in Sironko, about 22 kilometers (14 miles) northeast of Mbale, the local Pastors Fellowship had invited Pastor Moses Wangaia, a popular Christian apologist based in Mbale, to speak at a series of open-air talks defending the faith.

After a week of peaceful debate, Pastor Wangaia, an ex-Muslim sheikh (teacher) formerly known as Hajji Bidongo Byayesu, arrived for the series of talks designed to refute three weeks of Muslim speakers arguments against the designation of Jesus as the Son of God. Tensions began as Pastor Wangaia gave his testimony of how he converted to Christianity and used the Koran, Bible and Hadith (sayings and deeds of Muhammad, the prophet of Islam) to make his case, sources said.

The pastor pointed out the differences between the Korans portrayal of Issa (Jesus) and the Christ of the Bible, and he also pointed out the differences between the koranic Allah and the biblical God, sources said.

Police permitted the 70 pastors and 30 churches that organized the talks to stage them over a three-week period in the predominantly Muslim area, the sources said.

It was unfortunate that later the Muslims influenced the police to act against the Christians because of the uproar by the Muslims in Sironko town, a source said.

By Saturday (Nov. 24), Muslim leaders mobilized 1,800 Muslims from other areas to enter Sironko chanting the jihadist slogan, Allah Akbar, local sources told Morning Star news. Muhammad Wakabi from Jinja and sheikh Ustazi Swaleh from Kadama led the mob, they said.

The previous day mob leaders had gone to the Sironko central police station alleging that the Christian speakers had disrespected the Koran. The Muslim throng arrived at the event venue on Saturday (Nov. 24) with police officers and began dismantling the public address system, sources said. They removed amplifiers, microphones, loudspeakers, keyboards, a generator and the wiring system.

Officers then arrested six pastors identified as Wangaia (formerly Byayesu), Mwanje, Anthony, Palapande Tom, Jowashi and Grace. As police forced the six pastors into the police vehicle, the Muslim mob shouted, Away with these pastors and their families for blaspheming the Koran and Hadith, sources said.

Those arrested spent three cold nights at the Sironko police station, they said.

When Muslims alleged that Jesus is not the son of God, we Christians did not pick up stones to attack the Muslims, and we are shocked that the Muslims and police officers have taken such a wild move to frustrate Christians from propagating the message of the kingdom of Jehovah God, said a church leader who requested anonymity for security reasons.

Uganda has no law against blasphemy, but Muslims adhering to sharia (Islamic law) in several countries try to enforce it by influencing police and courts, fabricating such charges as disturbing the peace, sources said.

A Sironko deputy district police commander identified only as Abantu told Morning Star News that the pastors were released after three days, on Tuesday (Nov. 27), without charges but with a stern warning.

After two weeks of peaceful dialogue between the Muslims and Christians, word reached our police that the Muslims were planning to attack the Christians, Abantu said. On Nov. 23, the Muslims recorded serious allegation at our police station that the Christians were using abusive language, insulting and provoking their religion using the Koran.

He confirmed that the Muslim mob on Saturday marched in the streets of Sironko chanting and shouting, Allah Akbar.

Tensions led to a meeting among Christian and Muslim leaders, along with Local Council 5 and district heads. The Christians were cautioned to stop using provocative language, and the six pastors were released as police continued investigating the allegations against them, Abantu said.

Since the pastors release, they have received threatening messages.

The struggle is not yet over, we will teach you [Christians] a lesson, read a text message to one pastor. Another to Pastor Wangaia read, Know that disrespecting the Koran means a punishable crime, which is death.

Christians in Sironko fear for their lives, sources said, adding that the Pastors Fellowship has asked police to be on high alert.

Ugandas constitution and other laws provide for religious freedom, including the right to propagate ones faith and convert from one faith to another.

Muslims make up no more than 12 percent of Ugandas population.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...In 2020, we were the church on our heels. A global pandemic shut down much of our world. But the church has been on the move since it was birthed; it will continue to be on the move until God makes all things new.Pastor John Gray draws praise, caution after allowing congregants to take cash from offering

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Pastor John Gray's recent move to allow members of his church to take cash from the offering baskets has stirred discussion, with some applauding him for helping those in need and others expressing caution.

Praising Gray, Bishop Alphonza Gadsden of Cummins Memorial Theological Seminary in Summerville, South Carolina, told The Christian Post on Friday that he believes the church should be doing more to help the needy.

Having felt as if he is led by the Spirit of God to do this then I think its a great gesture, Gadsden commented. I believe that the church needs to play a more active role within the community and if it means helping those who are indigent and dont have a means of support then by all means the church should be able to do that.

In his sermon on Sunday, Gray, who leads Relentless Church in South Carolina, reminded his congregation that the role of the church  is not only to receive from the people of God but to meet the needs of the people of God. He then invited members of his church in need to help themselves to only what they need from the cash offerings donated that day.

For too long people have stood in a pulpit and told you to give, give, give. Very rarely have I seen churches stop and said leave the baskets out, let the people get what they need. Weve got too many pulpit pimps who want to get fat off people but dont want to meet the needs of the poor people. And Jesus said thats who you supposed to be taking care of. We got widows, we got orphans, weve got single moms in here. We might not be able to do everything but we can do something. I wish we could do more but its the best we can do right now, Gray said.

While admitting that the church needs money to operate and not every church can afford to help members and their community in all the ways that they would like, Gadsden agrees with Gray that too many churches have abandoned the call to serve those in need.

I realize that the church needs finances to operate but I say this with much reservation because I dont think that churches are designed to build up great bank accounts and build financial empires. What I believe God intends for us to do as a church is not to build empires but to meet the needs of Gods people, he said. Of late, I think the church has relinquished that role to the government or the state and what have you and I believe that we as part of the church should be helping to meet the needs of the people.

Zachary Groff, director of advancement and admissions at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in South Carolina, also praised Grays gesture but cautioned against reckless administration of assistance to the needy.

Here at Greenville Seminary and in the Presbyterian and Reformed theological tradition, we have a very high regard for the diaconal function of the church. We take very seriously the example set by the Apostolic church in caring for widows and orphans and those in need both within the community of faith, but also outside of the church, in our local communities. And so I can applaud the intentions behind what Mr. Gray has done in terms of showing in a very emotionally moving picture of how the church helps those in need, Groff said.

He noted that while he did not know much about Gray or his ministry he would not have advised allowing people to just take money from the offering baskets.

I would seriously caution against doing that kind of distribution method in the church, he said.

It looks like a free for all, and I really think that the example were given in the New Testament and even in the Old Testament in terms of the administration of funds and caring for the flock and those in need is one of orderliness and accountability and responsibility. I dont see any of that in what Mr. Gray has done.

Now there might have been some things behind the scenes where leaders in his church had things planned and knew this was coming but on the face of it, it looks like a pretty reckless move in Relentless Church.

A corporate and nonprofit tax law expert agreed that it would be better for the church to have a more formal process to assist the needy.

In principle, providing support to needy single mothers, widows, etc. is consistent with a church's 501(c)(3) charitable purposes. Applicable Treasury regulations define charitable to include relief of the poor and distressed or of the underprivileged, John Montague, senior associate at leading global international law firm Hogan Lovells, told CP.

However, the practice of allowing church members to simply take money from the offering basket on the basis of self-declared need is, at the least, not consistent with best practices. Instead, churches that want to provide such relief would be well-advised to establish formal procedures for overseeing and directing donations to needy individuals. For instance, such procedures might include a written application for funds, methods to verify and document the individual's need, and a designated body to oversee approval and distribution of the funds. In the absence of formal procedures, the system is open to abuse, and the church has no means of tracking money coming in or going out, he continued.

Many churches have benevolence or deacons' funds that are administered by a committee of deacons or other members of the congregation. These funds might lack the flashiness of allowing congregants to come to the front and take money from the offering basket, but they are able to meet congregational needs while ensuring that the church is acting consistently with its 501(c)(3) purposes."

In explaining his decision on Sunday, Gray said he was simply following what God asked him to do.

These people dont know what it took for me to do this. We are a six-month-old church with no savings account. We believe God every week but the Lord told me to do this because if I trust Him, whatever is left over would have to be enough, he said.

He then explained that as God blesses the church they will make it their mission to continue blessing those in need.

Just know as the Lord keeps blessing us, were going to do it more and more. Were going to start buying cars for women who are catching the bus. Were going to buy houses for people whove been renting. Were going to have more than what we need and Gods going to raise up entrepreneurs and theyre going to have so much that theyre going to sow into the vision. And we wont have to worry about offering. Offering will be extra, he said.

Gadsden said Grays effort to obey the Holy Spirit is a very valid one.

He said while he would not have advised Gray to allow congregants to take money from the offering baskets, if that was what God told him to do it wasnt his place to dispute it.

I dont know how God spoke to him or how God directed him to do this but I feel that if he is led by the Spirit, heard the voice of the Lord telling him to do it then God has a plan and a purpose directing him in that manner, Gadsden said. If God directed him to handle it that way then who am I to say that he did it incorrectly?

Still, he also would advise a different manner of distributing funds. From a personal standpoint, I think  we as human beings have a tendency to legislate too many things. At the same time, I have come to understand that there are people who are needy and there are people who are greedy. So when you look at it from that standpoint, from that perspective, I think that an organized manner of handling it would be far more efficient than just allowing people to come to the basket and take out what they need.Centuries of history blend seamlessly in Floridas St. Augustine

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I knew the city in Florida that claims to be Americas oldest city had history. I just didnt realize how much until I visited.

Despite all the history, the claim by St. Augustine comes with an asterisk. Thats because San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is actually older. On the other hand, Puerto Rico isnt a state (at least not yet). Regardless of which city is actually the oldest, St. Augustine is ancient by American standards.

Spanish explorer Pedro Menendez de Aviles founded the present-day city on the northeast Florida coast in 1565  over 40 years before the English settlement at Jamestown  though his more famous predecessor Juan Ponce de Leon came ashore in 1513 to claim what he called La Florida for Spain.

Spains flag would twice fly above St. Augustine; once from 1565 to 1763 and again from 1784 until U.S. acquisition of Florida in 1821. Between the two Spanish eras, the city was the capital of the British colony East Florida. This period is interesting  and, sadly, overlooked in the annals of history  as the colony remained loyal to George III during the American Revolution.

Perhaps most impressively, everything from Spanish and British colonial heritage to Gilded Age hotels blends together rather seamlessly, making St. Augustine a nice, family-friendly destination. And if you visit before February you can see the citys incredible Christmas lights, which Im told number more than 3 million.

What to see

Roman Catholics will be interested in the local religious history, as the first parish was established here. Unlike the English colonies and even other Spanish colonies, which were driven by commercial interests, the church dominated Spanish-era St. Augustine from the beginning, when converting the indigenous population was arguably job number one.

To get a better understanding of this part of history I visited Government House, which today serves as a museum after centuries of use as an official residence of colonial governors and then a courthouse and post office. Here I explored First Colony: Our Spanish Origins, a free exhibit explaining the history of St. Augustine through the end of the first Spanish period in 1763.

Government House overlooks the Plaza de la Constitucion. The square-cum-park has been at the center of St. Augustine since the late 16th century and takes its name from the short-lived Spanish constitution of 1812, which itself is commemorated by an obelisk that is believed to be the last surviving monument of its kind anywhere in the former Spanish colonial empire.

Flanking the plaza is the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, which traces its lineage as the countrys first Roman Catholic parish to 1565. The present church, which was elevated to the status of a cathedral when the Diocese of St. Augustine was created in 1870, is best explored through the daily behind-the-scenes tour.

Directly opposite the Roman Catholic cathedral is Trinity Episcopal Parish, Floridas oldest extant Protestant congregation. Most of what you see today is from a reconstruction in 1902, which was done in the gothicky style. Only the spire and north transept date to the original circa 1830 edifice.

St. Augustines big draw is its Spanish fort, the Castillo de San Marcos. Built in the late 17th century and under the care of the National Park Service, the remarkably well-preserved fort overlooks Matanzas Bay. Besides historical interpreters, who are authentically dressed as Spanish soldiers from the 1740s, programming and other special events include musket firings, artillery demonstrations, and even the occasional reenactment. (Fort Matanzas National Monument, another Spanish fort, is nearby but visiting can be difficult as getting there requires you to take a ferry.)

Then there is the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park, which admittedly gives off the tourist trap kitsch vibe. Its still worth visiting, if only because purportedly this is where Ponce de Leon landed in search of the fountain of youth and Menendez de Aviles established the first settlement of St. Augustine.

I would be remiss if I didnt mention the legacy of St. Augustines Gilded Age.

Flagler College, which reminds a visitor of a small liberal arts college in New England, is located in the heart of downtown with the circa 1880 former Ponce de Leon Hotel serving as its main building.

The old hotel, an architectural masterpiece, was the passion of railroad baron and oil tycoon Henry Flagler, who not only revived St. Augustine but developed the entire east coast of Florida, putting the state in a position to become what it is today. Guided tours from students occur twice a day.

If you have time, the Lightner Museum, which occupies part of another former Flagler hotel, and Memorial Presbyterian Church, where Flagler is buried, are also interesting to visit.

Where to stay and eat

I stayed three nights at Casa Monica Resort & Spa, which despite its name really isnt a resort as it is located in downtown St. Augustine. Even so the location  kitty-corner from Flagler College  is perfect and within walking distance of everything.

The hotel, part of Marriotts Autograph Collection, also dates to the Gilded Age when wealthy snowbirds from New York City and other cities up north, as locals call the northern states, wintered here. After decades of use as the county courthouse, it reopened as a hotel in 1999.

The exterior architecture, a blend of the Moorish and Spanish revival styles, is fantastically eccentric. I really wanted to like the hotel, but inconsistent service and inattentive management were too much to overlook. It failed to deliver both the consistency one expects with Marriott and the expectations that come with a four-diamond rating from AAA.

You cant go wrong eating at either Meehans Irish Pub & Seafood House or the Raintree Restaurant. Each restaurant has a menu with something for everyone, including locally sourced seafood.

How to get there

I flew into Jacksonville, which is about 50 miles away by car. St. Augustines airport has flights, but commercial service is extremely limited compared to the extensive service to and from Jacksonville.

You could rent a car, but parking in St. Augustine can be an inconvenience. Uber is best and the one-way charge ranged between $50 and $65, depending on traffic and demand.

Spires and Crosses, a travel column exclusive to The Christian Post, is published every week. Follow @dennislennox on Twitter and Instagram.Christian college president accused of plagiarizing Joel Osteen sermon and book

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The president of a historically black Christian college in Tennesee is facing accusations that she plagiarized a sermon from popular televangelist Joel Osteen during a speech to students in October.

Lemoyne-Owen College President Andrea Miller has responded to claims from faculty that she lifted content from Osteen, the pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, whose sermons are seen by millions each week, and used it in a speech that she gave before freshmen at a convocation ceremony.

As reported by LocalMemphis.com, faculty members at the private school affiliated with the United Church of Christ noticed similarities between Millers speech and one of Joel Osteens sermons from last year titled I am still standing.

In a statement provided to WREG, Miller explained that some faculty members have called for her resignation after noticing the similarities. Although she doesnt believe she breached academic standards, Miller admits that she did use material from Joel Osteen but it was within the boundaries of fair use.

[This] means I may not photocopy or print text for distribution, she asserted in her statement. I quoted from the I'm Still Standing chapter of his book Blessed in Darkness. I wanted to offer a message of motivation and encouragement to our students, and offer a reflection on what it means to endure the challenges that are a part of our transformational work at the college.

Miller explained that in the notes for her speech that day, she had a statement giving credit to Osteen. However, she stated that she may have overlooked giving credit to Osteen when delivering her speech.

In that instance, it would be an oversight and does not constitute a serious breach of academic standards that would rise to level of review for faculty or students, she contests. The faculty as a body did not call for my resignation. It is no secret that organizational changes, the pace of change and our new direction at LeMoyne-Owen College has caused consternation among some faculty members. Still, I am committed to ensuring this 156-year-old institution achieves new heights in outcomes for the students and families we serve.

According to LocalMemphis.com, a passage from Osteens 2017 sermon reads:

"What's interesting is the same storm came to both people, the just and the unjust. If the story ended right there, you would think, doesn't make a difference to honor God."

In her October 2018 speech, Miller stated:

"What's interesting is that the same storm came to both people: the just and the unjust. If the story stopped there, you'd think that it doesn't make a difference whether we honor God."

Transcripts of the sermon and speech indicate that Miller did omit parts of Osteens original sermon by leaving out at least three anecdotes told by Osteen, LocalMemphis.com notes.

Although Miller believes her conduct didnt amount to much more than an oversight mistake, Professor Michael Robinson, the president of the Lemoyne-Owen College faculty organization, feels otherwise. "The president is the highest academic and administrative officer at the college and she sets the standard for ethical and moral conduct at the college as well," Robinson told WREG. "I think these are some serious allegations because it impacts the credibility of the college going forward and with the president being the face of the organization that's a serious allegation and a serious infraction."

Robinson also believes that Miller didnt use that portion of the sermon in a scholarly way but rather more in a grudgeful way to send a message to the faculty."

This is not the first time that Miller and the faculty have butted heads.

In 2017, nearly all 51 full-time faculty members voiced their dissatisfaction with the job Miller was doing and accused her of having unfair hiring and firing methods.

Miller has been in office since 2015 and is the schools first female president.

Board of Trustees Chairman Bob Simpson had previously defended Miller by stating that positions and activities needed to be consolidated because of budget concerns facing the school, according to WREG.

[She] probably is the best thing to happen to LeMoyne-Owen in many years," Simpson said last year.

Robinson told WREG that he and other faculty members want the board of trustees to take a stance on the issue of Millers convocation speech. However, the trustees have waited for weeks to respond to the plagiarism allegation.

The college was founded in 1862 and has an undergraduate enrollment of about 863, according to U.S. News & World Report.Christians in Middle East at risk of 'imminent extinction,' warns Anglican head

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Christians in the Middle East are at risk of imminent extinction due to the continued threat of violence, murder, intimidation, prejudice and poverty, the archbishop of Canterbury has warned.

In a recent op-ed for the Sunday Telegraph, Justin Welby described the daily threat of murder Christians are experiencing in the Middle East, calling it the worst situation since the Mongol invasions of the 13th Century.

"In the last few years, they have been slaughtered by so-called Islamic State, and in many countries they find themselves squeezed between the upper and lower millstones of pressure on them within society and of conflicts that afflict the region.

Many have left. Hundreds of thousands have been forced from their homes. Many have been killed, enslaved and persecuted or forcibly converted. Even those who remain ask the question, 'Why stay?' The Christian population of Iraq, for instance, is less than half what it was in 2003 and their churches, houses and businesses have been damaged or destroyed. The Syrian Christian population has halved since 2010. As a result, across the region Christian communities that were the foundation of the universal Church now face the threat of imminent extinction.

In countries like Israel, where Christians are secure in physical terms, tensions nevertheless makes life difficult for them, he added.

Welby urged the international Christian community to remember Christians in the Middle East and pray for them. He also advised against asking Syrian Christians to choose between President Bashar al-Assad, under whom they were tolerated, and the unimaginable horrors and threats of so-called Islamic State," adding: We should not judge too easily.

We must support and help them in every way we can," he underscored. "Where they wish to leave, they will be refugees in need of asylum. Where, courageously and by the grace of God, they choose to remain, they need publicity and external, visible support."

Welbys message was delivered ahead of a special service at Westminster Abbey to celebrate the contribution of Christians in the Middle East. In addition to the archbishop, Prince Charles will give remarks at the upcoming service, which is being held to offer encouragement to Christians throughout the region.

Welby said the prince of Wales will play a leading role in the Dec. 4 event: "We will celebrate and pray for Christians in the region, we will raise their profile and we will publicize their plight," he said.

In his 2017 Christmas address, Charles urged prayers for those "forced to leave their homes in the face of the most brutal persecution on account of their faith" and called on believers in the West to pray and support those facing attacks in the Middle East.

"Indeed, as all of you know only too well, the Christmas story itself ends with the Holy Family fleeing for refuge from persecution; just as in 2017 large numbers of Christians, such as the families that I had the particular pleasure of meeting before this service, are being forced to leave their homes in the face of the most brutal persecution on account of their faith," Charles said in a service at St. Barnabas Church, Pimlico.

While God calls Christians to "love our enemies and to pray for those who persecute," Charles acknowledged it can be "incredibly hard to follow Christ's example" when "confronted with such hatred and oppression."

Referencing his and other Christians' belief that "Christ has come, and that He is present in the world today," Prince Charles urged Christians to pray and "commit to doing what each of us can to help ensure that those who are suffering have a brighter year ahead than the one that has passed.

"It is so vitally important, in this season of Advent and throughout the year, that Christians in this country and elsewhere, who enjoy the rights of freedom of worship and freedom of expression, do not take those rights for granted; and that we remember, and do what we can to support, our fellow Christians for whom the denial of such rights has had such profound and painful consequences."

According to estimates, under 200,000 Christians remain in Iraq when there were over 1.4 million Christians in Iraq in 2002 and 500,000 Christians in Iraq in 2013.

Last week, the U.S. Congress passed a bill that would "provide emergency relief to victims of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in Iraq and Syria and provide accountability for perpetrators of these crimes.David Platt Issues Urgent Call for Evangelism 'While We Still Have Time': 'This Is Not a Game'

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As part of the Rethink Church | Rethink Mission Conference held at McLean Bible Church in Vienna, Virginia, Pastor David Platt challenged Christians to go out into the world and proclaim God's name among the nations, bringing the dead to life "while we still have time."

Platt, who serves as pastor teacher at McLean Bible Church and is the founder and president of Radical, began his message by asking attendees, "How convinced are you that you have been saved solely by God's grace and supremely for God's glory among the nations?"

"The sole ground of salvation is the sovereign grace of God; the supreme aim of salvation is the global glory of God," he said, pointing out that in Ezekiel 36, God repeatedly uses the phrase "I will."

God saves and restores His people  even when they sin against Him  because He wants His name proclaimed among the nations, the pastor contended.

"The reason God saves His people from destruction is because God is zealous for the fame of His name among the nations," he said. "God loves His glory and desires His glory among all the nations. When God saves His people, He doesn't do it ultimately for their sake; He does it ultimately for His sake. God is for them because it brings great glory to Him."

"This is not the way the 21st century Christian in America thinks about God," he added. "We think so highly of what we bring to the table ... The only reason we are here is because of the mercy of God, and He has shown us this mercy for the spread of His glory among the nations."

The pastor acknowledged that such truths can be "uncomfortable" to acknowledge, but it's "more than appropriate for God to be God-centered."

"The moment He were to exalt someone else, He would no longer be worthy of exaltation," Platt explained. "There is no one greater than Him ... If God is completely good and right and loving, all that is love is summed up in God, then what is the greatest gift He could give us? Enjoyment of Himself, worship of Himself, glory in Himself."

Desiring the glory of God more than you love your own life, Platt said, will "change your Christianity."

"God's written a whole book and designed all of His history to end with Him getting glory from all the nations for the grace He has shown," he said.

Second, the Counter Culture author asked listeners: "How confident are you to make disciples and multiply churches without dependence on performances, programs, and professions?"

"How is God going to glorify Himself among the nations? He's going to form a people who are forgiven of their sins," Platt said. However, Christianity doesn't end there, he said, pointing out that when God forgives people of their sins, He then pours His spirit into them.

Every single follower of Christ has the Spirit and Word of God in them, the pastor emphasized, and thus has what it takes to obey the mission of God: Make His glory known as a witness in the world.

"My concern is that we, if we're not careful in our thinking, we become unnecessarily and in some ways unhelpfully dependent on performances, programs, and professionals to do that which God has already equipped us to do," Platt said.

"What might happen if you were suddenly planted in a remote or unreached part of the world where you didn't have a performance and you didn't have programs and you didn't have any professional ministers around you?" he asked. "Could you make disciples and gather them into a church that was focused on making disciples and multiplying that church?"

As a pastor, Platt said he wants to prepare people to "be so confident in the Spirit of God in us and the Word of God in front of us to make disciples and multiply churches wherever God leads us in the world without relying on performances, programs, and professionals."

"When that is the case, I think mission, according to God's design, takes off," he charged. "He is sufficient, so you can be confident."

Finally, Platt asked attendees: "How desperate are you to see dead people come to life?"

The dead come to life, the pastor said, when the people of God speak His word in the power of His spirit.

"Think about where you live right now," he said. "You are not in that neighborhood or that apartment complex by accident. God is sovereign over everything, including the details of your life; He has the whole thing rigged, and He's put you [there] for a reason. There are people who are spiritually dead all around you."

"How will they come to life? They come to life when servants of God are bold enough, desperate enough, to speak His Word to one of those people," he said. "We miss the point if we continue taking about how hard the ground is instead of how great our God is."

When we are truly desperate to see the dead come to life, there will be an "urgency" in us to share the Gospel with others, Platt said.

"Let us not be ignorant," he exhorted listeners. "This is not a game. There is real, eternal, everlasting judgment awaiting those who don't hear and believe this good news ... I plead with us to live with desperation to see the dead come to life."

The pastor urged believers to make disciples, multiply churches, and make the dead come to life "while we still have time."

"And as we do," he concluded, "we will experience the joy of proclaiming His grace and exalting His glory and fulfilling the purpose for which we live."

The Rethink Church | Rethink Mission Conference is a one-day event with the stated aim of "casting a clear vision for every Christian to leverage their life for the church and mission," according to the website.

In addition to Platt, the event featured Francis Chan, author of Crazy Love and founder of We Are Church, and Andrew Scott, author of Scatter and president of OM USA.

For more resources or to access each of the sessions for free, visit crazylove.scatterglobal.com.Grandmother sent to all-male jail after she is misclassified as transgender

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A federal appeals court has reinstated the lawsuit of a grandmother against a doctor and nurse with the Miami-Dade County Corrections Department who misclassified her as transgender and insisted that jail officers book her as a man even though a strip search had already shown she is a woman.

The grandmother, Fior Pichardo de Veloz, now 55, is an attorney and local elected official in the Dominican Republic, according to the Miami Herald.

Pichardo was arrested on an old drug case she did not know was outstanding after she came to Miami in 2013 to witness the birth of her grandchild.

Pichardo previously filed a lawsuit against Dr. Fredesvindo Rodriguez-Garcia and Nurse Fatu Kamara Harris, who insisted to jail officials that she was a man. She alleged she was subjected to cruel and unusual punishment in violation of the U.S. Constitution by county and jail staff. The case was thrown out by a federal judge who argued that jail staffers were protected from a trial for negligence.

The decision was overturned in a unanimous opinion released Nov. 21.

Every reasonable prison officer and medical personnel would have known that wrongfully misclassifying a biological female as a male inmate and placing that female in the male population of a detention facility was unlawful, Judge Frank Hull wrote.

Ryan Marks, a lawyer representing Pichardo, told the Herald that we are pleased with the courts decision.

The opinion correctly held, as we believed, that the defendants could not be so struthious as to ignore the overwhelming evidence in front of them that Mrs. Pichardo was in fact female, Marks said.

All evidence point to Pichardo being a biological woman after she was arrested at Miami International Airport on Nov. 4, 2013. Things took a wild turn during Pichardos medical processing for high blood pressure. Her file indicated that she was taking hormone pills but this was because she was going through menopause.

Nurse Harris told a jailer working with Pichardo that sometimes male inmates take hormone pills to enhance their breasts. She walked over to Pichardo and asked her about her gender and the grandmother asserted that she is indeed female despite being startled by the question.

Harris reportedly led Pichardo to an exam room and left before the doctor saw the grandmother. Dr. Rodriguez-Garcia later asked her medical questions but never made her undress or asked if she was a woman, a man or transgender. He also did not ask why she was taking hormone pills. He would later reclassify her as a man and Harris inexplicably told a jail officer that during an exam everything fell out, referring to Pichardos supposed male genitals.

Despite protest from jail officers, the nurse added a note to Pichardos file that said: Transgender, male parts, female tendencies.

Pichardo was later placed in a cell with about 40 men, where she was jeered and taunted with shouts of mami! mami! She was so scared to use the toilet that she urinated on herself instead, the opinion said.

The appeals court ruled the conduct of the nurse and doctor, in the face of strong evidence that Pichardo was a woman, amounts to deliberate indifference.

Harris was exposed to consistent and repeated information that Mrs. Pichardo was a woman and stubbornly refused to confirm Pichardos gender.

It was further noted that the doctor knew that sending a woman to an all-male prison would pose a risk of serious harm to her safety, however, he took no steps to verify Mrs. Pichardos sex before re-classifying her as male.Hundreds of Uganda Muslims angry over defense of Jesus as Son of God force arrest of 6 pastors

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Hundreds of Muslims in eastern Uganda who were angry following public debates about Jesus, among other things, pressured local police to arrest six pastors last week.

The arrests came after 70 pastors and 30 churches were allowed to hold a series of talks in Sironko, defending Christianity. Speeches included the testimony of Pastor Moses Wangaia, a popular Christian apologist, who explained why he converted from Islam to Christianity.

Christians challenged Muslim speakers, who said that Jesus Christ should not be designated as the Son of God, Morning Star News reported.

Wangaia, meanwhile, sparked tensions after he used the Quran, the Bible and the Hadith, which are the sayings and deeds of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, to make his case as a Christian.

On Saturday, Nov. 24, Muslim leaders led 1,800 other Muslims in the area, chanting the jihadist slogan, Allah Akbar, or "God is great," and accusing the Christian speakers of having disrespected the Quran.

A church leader who asked not to be named explained the situation:

When Muslims alleged that Jesus is not the son of God, we Christians did not pick up stones to attack the Muslims, and we are shocked that the Muslims and police officers have taken such a wild move to frustrate Christians from propagating the message of the kingdom of Jehovah God.

The six pastors that were arrested were released three days later on Tuesday with a stern warning, a police commander identified only as Abantu said.

After two weeks of peaceful dialogue between the Muslims and Christians, word reached our police that the Muslims were planning to attack the Christians, Abantu revealed.

On Nov. 23, the Muslims recorded serious allegation at our police station that the Christians were using abusive language, insulting and provoking their religion using the Quran.

Christians in the area have said that they fear for their safety as they have received threatening texts warning of consequences of disrespecting Islam.

Uganda is a predominantly Christian country, with Muslims making up only 12 percent of the population. Christians have faced attacks for their faith in Muslim-dominated areas.

Earlier this year, a Christian pastor was knocked unconscious by Islamists, also for claiming that Jesus is the Son of God.

Tom Palapande, the 38-year-old pastor in Butaleja District, had previously held a two-week evangelistic campaign in June, which defended the Trinity and Christ as the Son of God.

Islamists were angered by Palapande's claims and began throwing rocks at him, chanting "Allah Akbar."

"A big stone hit the pastor's forehead, and the stones as well injured three other church leaders who were close to the pastor at the podium," a church leader said at the time.Idaho-based Planned Parenthood affiliate cutting down on non-abortion services

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A Planned Parenthood affiliate based in Idaho is ending some of their health care services in order to focus on its main product of providing abortions.

In 2016, the Boise clinic began providing primary care services for treating health issues such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and influenza.

However, this program was recently discontinued, according to a story reported by Boise State Public Radio last Friday.

It was successful, said Kara Cadwallader, vice president of Medical Affairs and senior medical director for Planned Parenthood of the Great Northwest and Hawaiian Islands, to BSPR regarding the services.

Our patients had great reports in terms of the quality and their happiness with the service, our staff could access the care and they loved it.

However, the affiliate opted to discontinue providing the non-abortion services due to their availability elsewhere, according to BSPR

Brandi Swindell, founder and CEO of the pro-life clinic Stanton Healthcare, also located in Boise, told LifeNews in an interview published Monday that she saw the development as further evidence that Planned Parenthood is nothing but an abortion business.

Planned Parenthood likes to portray themselves as critical providers of womens healthcare across the nation yet federally qualified community health centers  which do not provide abortions  offer more comprehensive health care services than those offered by Planned Parenthood, stated Swindell.

By cutting primary health services but continuing to be an abortion vendor, Planned Parenthood has revealed what they truly are. That is, an abortion business which has become the largest abortion provider in the world.

According to Planned Parenthoods latest annual report, the pro-choice organization performed 82 abortions for every one adoption referral. Planned Parenthood clinics performed a total of 321,384 abortion procedures, approximately 878 per day, in fiscal year 2016-2017.

The report further revealed that the number of patients receiving contraceptive services decreased last year, an ongoing trend for the organization since 2009.

Many pro-life activists, among them Americans United for Life President Catherine Glenn Foster, see this decline in non-abortions as proof that Planned Parenthood should lose hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding.

This report demonstrates that truly, we can  and should  provide safe and holistic health care without Planned Parenthood, stated Foster in an email to The Christian Post sent earlier this year.

Planned Parenthood's latest annual report demonstrates that the abortion giant's bottom line is, as always, its 'bottom line.James Dobson: 'Gender identity' social policy doesn't belong in trade agreements

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James Dobson is speaking out against Canada's insistence on attaching "gender identity" to the renegotiated North American trade deal, renamed USMCA.

In a Thursday essay in National Review, together with Jenna Ellis, director of the James Dobson Family Institute, Dobson argued that this is not the realm where social policy should be determined. At issue is language is found in Article 23.9 and Article 23.12, 23 in the chapter on labor which requires the parties to protect workers from discrimination based on sexual orientation and "gender identity."

Canada wanted a whole chapter on gender equality as part of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's "progressive" trade agenda.

"As we have seen in recent years, of course, such edicts often run headlong into the constitutional right of religious business owners not to violate their core beliefs, in addition to raising thorny questions in a variety of areas including bathroom privacy. This stands to take away freedoms from every private business and churches as well," Dobson and Ellis wrote.

Earlier this month, 46 conservative members of Congress delivered a letter to President Donald Trump expressing their concern that such language had been included in a free trade deal. An unprecedented move, they said.

It is especially inappropriate and insulting to our sovereignty to needlessly submit to social policies which the United States Congress has so far explicitly refused to accept, the letter reads.

While a legal question exists as to whether the current language would require the United States to comply, Dobson is concerned that a court might eventually point to the language as an excuse to enshrine these policies in U.S. law.

"On top of that, the language stands in stark contrast to the Trump administrations own approach to the issue, as the president is working to undo Obama-era executive orders that went beyond federal law to implement SOGI protections in certain contexts," he and Ellis wrote.

Shortly after taking office, Trump ordered the Departments of Justice and Education to rescind former President Obama's 2016 Dear Colleague letter which threatened to withhold federal funding from schools that did not allow single-sex bathrooms and locker rooms to be opened to students on the basis of gender identity. A case centering on that issue that the Supreme Court had agreed to hear was also vacated due to the change in administration and new policy direction. In 2014, Obama issued executive orders declaring the amorphous concept of gender identity a protected class in government employment and contracting.

Dobson considers it a problem when a government agency like the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) rewrites anti-discrimination law in a trade agreement. While trade pacts require Congressional approval, they are not given the same level of review as legislation.

"Although trade agreements can contain language relating to human rights and anti-discrimination policy, such as agreeing not to use child or slave labor or to enforce anti-discrimination laws in accordance with a countrys national law, a trade agreement is no place to be advancing an unsettled and controversial new concept," Dobson and Ellis continued.

"There are good reasons for civil-rights laws to be decided by the legislature, not the executive, not the least of which is that the Constitution specifically gives this power to Congress."

That this is part of a trade agreement is also especially at odds in light of the posture the administration continues to take on issues related to transgender ideology, they maintain. A recently leaked memo from the Department of Health and Services clarified that federal law will be returning to the long-held definition of the word sex to mean biological sex and not gender identity.

President Trump signed the trade agreement in Buenos Aires, Argentina Friday morning at the G20 summit. As a presidential candidate, repeatedly throughout the 2016 election cycle, he made renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) a key issue.

Dobson is the founder and president of Family Talk and the James Dobson Family Institute, a nonprofit organization that produces his daily radio program, Dr. James Dobsons Family Talk.Iran's Top Diplomat Attacks Opponents Of Transparency Measures

11/13/18

Source: Radio Farda

Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif says those who profit from money laundering are spending millions of dollars to prevent the passage of legislation requiring more financial transparency.



cartoon by Naeem Tadayyon, Iranian daily Shahrvand



Known collectively in Iran as the Palermo Bills, the legislation would pave the way for the country to meet the requirements of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crimes (UNTOC), Combatting Financing Terrorism (CFT), and the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) -- in the hope of reducing international pressure on Iran's already troubled economy.



Originally proposed by President Hassan Rouhani in November last year, the bills have met staunch resistance from hardliners, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who says the agreements have been "cooked up" by foreign enemies.



"The amount spent for creating an atmosphere against these bills is equal to the Foreign Ministry's budget," Zarif was cited as saying November 11 on the local website Khabar Online.



The foreign minister went on to accuse government agencies, that he refrained from naming, of mounting the campaign against the Palermo Bills.



"We cannot challenge the scenes set by these wealthy and mighty state-organs," he said.



Commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), Friday Prayer Leaders across Iran, and other figures appointed by the Islamic Republic's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have repeatedly opposed the passage of UN sponsored conventions against financing international terrorism and money laundering.



In June, members of parliament discussed Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) accession bill, which is one of the Palermo Bills put forward by Rouhani's government, along with a proposal to adopt the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards. The bill was shelved for two months. Later, it was approved by parliament but rejected by the conservative-dominated Guardian Council.



Parliament did approve a bill on the country's accession to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, also known as the Palermo Convention, but the bill was rejected by the Guardian Council.



Parliament has since referred the bill to the Expediency Council to make the final decision.



An amendment to the anti-money laundering law of the Islamic Republic proposed by Rouhani's government has met a similar fate. It was approved by the parliament but rejected by both the Guardian Council and Expediency Council.



Meanwhile, an amendment to the country's law against financing terrorism was approved by both parliament and the Guardian Council, and signed into law by President Hassan Rouhani, state-run Mehr News Agency (Mehr News Agency) reported.



Those who oppose the bills have argued that passing them is a threat to Iran's security. Analysts say the real fear in circles loyal to the Supreme Leader is that adhering to the financial transparency requirements would prevent Iran from financially supporting the Lebanese Hezbollah and Palestinian Hamas militant groups.



But their opposition can also have more selfish reasons, as many officials and opaque organizations with secret budgets and corrupt dealings would not like to be subjected to more transparency.



The FATF has given Tehran until February to either endorse the UNTOC or be added to its "black list" of countries refusing to cooperate in the fight against money laundering and financing terrorism. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is urging Tehran to endorse the bills before the deadline set by FATF.John MacArthur: Christianity thats inoffensive is not Christianity

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John MacArthur recently said that while his views on hot-button issues like homosexuality are controversial, his goal as a pastor is to offend everyone because any brand of Christianity that is inoffensive isnt Christianity at all.

During an interview, author and conservative personality Ben Shapiro asked MacArthur how he addresses certain difficult Scriptures, pointing in particular to passages addressing homosexuality.

MacArthur, who is leader of Grace Community Church of Sun Valley, California, and president of The Master's College and Seminary, said that while there's no getting around the fact that the Bible clearly identifies homosexuality as a sin, its important to understand its not some kind of sin that leads the parade and is separated by light years from all other sins.

That is a sin to which humanity is susceptible, and some people have more strong desires in regards to that sin than other people do, he said, explaining that same-sex attraction could stem from a number of issues.

The whole purpose of the Christian message is to confront the sinners sin so you can call the sinner to repentance and forgiveness, he continued. The sinner doesnt like that.

Acknowledging that such a perspective is considered offensive by today's standards, the pastor asserted that his goal is to offend everyone.

That is my initial goal: To tell you that you are without God in the world, that theres only one Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, that youre in sin, that sin brings death and punishment, but the good news is that Jesus Christ is the Savior who has provided a way for you to be forgiven by buying your sins with His body on the tree.

I offend people all the time because thats necessary, he added. If you try to develop a kind of Christianity thats inoffensive, thats not Christianity, its not the Gospel.

Earlier in the interview, MacArthur said that while the Bible instructs Christians to speak what edifies, Scripture also tells believers to dissent when the government is asking us to do something that is wrong.

Freedom of speech, for us, is to preach the truth of Christ even when society says its against the law, he said. Christians have always dissented through history ... and inevitably, when persecution of free speech comes it always comes against the people who have the religious absolutes, because thats what threatens peoples freedom to sin. So were always going to be the culprits.

Last year, MacArthur came under fire from supporters of the LGBT community after he stated that "no one is gay" and referred to homosexuality as a "vicious sin.

"People commit adultery, they commit sins of homosexuality, they lie, they steal, they cheat ... That's like saying, 'You know, I keep robbing banks, but I'm a robber. I'm a bank robber. What am I going to do? I'm a bank robber.'"

He added, "That is not an excuse for what you do. Are there certain kind of impulses that lead people in that direction? Yes. But I think one of the really deadly aspects of this is to let people define themselves as gay."

MacArthur contended that people are "not gay any more than an adulterer is hardwired to be forced by his own nature to commit adultery."

"Those are all behavioral sins that are condemned in Scripture," he said. "God didn't hardwire anybody in such a way that they are not responsible for certain behaviors."

During his interview with Shapiro, MacArthur explained that while he is primarily called to preach the Gospel, he cant avoid everything political because hes also biblically required to elevate justice and righteousness in the world. 

Society today is fraught with moral issues, MacArthur said, adding: If you are one who has a moral authority, which would be the Word of the Living God, then your responsibility in any society is to make sure Gods moral standards are heard.

The pastor went on to address the role of Christianity in government, explaining that in recent decades, its become less challenging to pick a political affiliation.

Somebody who advocates for the slaughter of babies, which is murder by any biblical definition, any moral definition, that is not a just ruler, that is not a man of mercy, he explained.

I cant vote for that. I dont care who the other guy is. Youre looking, in some ways, at the lesser of the two evils.

MacArthur pointed out that, when undergoing surgery, the surgeons skill set  not their moral life  is more important. Similarly, the presidency is not a moral job; rather, you choose the best youve got.

Who has the leadership ability? Who can move things in the right direction? And whos closest to a biblical moral standard, without expecting hed be faithful to that, fully.

MacArthur went on to emphasize that U.S. President Donald Trump cant be blamed for the breakdown of the traditional family: He had nothing to do with that, but thats why the fabrics coming apart, he said.

He argued that there are three mechanisms God implemented in society to govern and constrain it, the first being conscience.

Conscience only works if you have a defined belief system, he said. You can tamper with conscience when you alter belief; when you tamper with truth, or when you eliminate truth, the conscience is lost.

Second, God designed parents for the benefit of society: The way to destroy that mechanism is to tear the family to shreds, redefine it, abuse men  turn men into some kind of joke, dispossess them of all moral authority.

Finally, government is a God-given institution developed to constrain human behavior and to honor the good and punish the evildoer," and when these three things are destroyed, you literally have disseminated a culture.

Then you take a guy and stick him in a presidential role  you think hes gonna restore moral authority in a culture? Thats an impossible task, he concluded.NewSpring leaders gutted as lawsuit suggests volunteer molested 14 children in 90 Days

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NewSpring Church remained gutted Monday as a lawsuit suggested that a church volunteer who was recently arrested after he was caught on camera sexually assaulting a 3-year-old child at the South Carolina megachurch may have molested at least 13 other victims in the last 90 days.

Responding to questions about the lawsuit Monday, Suzanne Swift, NewSprings communications director, told The Christian Post that the church had not yet been served with any papers regarding a lawsuit. She provided a statement from the churchs leaders that was shared with the congregation.

We want our NewSpring family to know that as the leaders of this church we are gutted by these events. We know this happened on our watch, and though we have taken great measures over the years to protect our children, evil found a way to breach our best efforts. This devastates us to the core. We are heartbroken for the families directly impacted, our volunteers who serve with KidSpring, and for all of the families who trust us each week to care for their children, the statement said in part.

NewSpring Teaching Pastor Brad Cooper pushed back at the enemy during his sermon on Sunday, according to ABC News 4, and vowed that the abuse will not cause the church to retreat.

We will not let the enemy cause us to back up, to cower, to insulate ourselves. We have done everything we could have possibly do to bring law enforcement along, Cooper said.

"We took a moms accusation, and we were able to corroborate her accusation that this volunteer, in fact, has done some incredibly evil things, he added.

Jacop Hazlett, 28, was arrested on a preliminary charge of sexually assaulting a 3-year-old boy as he watched children during worship services two Sundays ago. The lawsuit, filed Wednesday and cited by the Associated Press, accuses the NewSpring volunteer of attacking at least 13 other children as well.

"There could be countless victims out there. We only know of 14 from the last 90 days," lawyer Joshua Slavin who represents the 3-year-old boys family told the AP.

On Friday, North Charleston police spokesman Spencer Pryor told the news agency that they expect Hazlett to face more charges as the investigation develops.

"We've made one charge so far, and the investigation is ongoing with more charges expected," Pryor said.

Slavin told the AP that Hazlett who only started volunteering at NewSpring in March may have been volunteering at another church in North Carolina and there may be other victims around the state.

"We're concerned that there may be victims in North Carolina as well," he said. "The scope of this is pretty astounding to me."

Hazlett supervised the care of 3- and 4-year-old children in a church room called "the Tree House" at NewSpring.

It is alleged in the lawsuit that Hazlett is shown on video following the 3-year-old toddler into the church bathroom and assaulting him. He also took pictures of the boys genitals.

The lawsuit alleges a lack of oversight at NewSpring. Slavin said a live feed from church security cameras which is supposed to be monitored by a volunteer wasnt checked. It was not until a parent came forward with concerns that they discovered Hazletts actions.

Hazlett "can be seen keeping a lookout for approaching adults and looking toward the security camera," the lawsuit explains. "He was aware of the extraordinary risk he was taking had NewSpring Church simply been monitoring the video feed."

The church only keeps 90 days of video from the camera.

Addressing a question on why it took so long for Hazlett to be caught even with cameras in the room, church leaders did not provide congregants with a clear answer.

We have video cameras in all of our KidSpring rooms at permanent campuses, and they are positioned to make the entire room visible. We monitor these cameras at each campus to provide a level of oversight and quick response if there is a crisis situation in a room. We also have them in place to make sure we can verify anything a parent would have concerns about when talking with their children about being in KidSpring. Somehow, Hazletts independent and individual acts were missed as they happened, the leaders said.

We are thankful that we have 90 days of footage. This has allowed us to provide law enforcement with crucial evidence as they move forward in proving criminal actions by Hazlett. The footage has also allowed us to identify the children directly impacted by Hazlett, quickly reach out to their parents, and begin the process of notification and care, it added.

In an earlier report, NewSpring insisted Hazlett underwent an extensive background check and his criminal record came back clean when he started volunteering at the church in March.

As a part of NewSprings child safety and security program, we perform criminal background checks, interview each potential volunteer candidate one-on-one, and provide detailed training for volunteers serving with children of all ages, the church said.

Our background check includes verification of Social Security number, address history, National Criminal Database Search, National Sex Offender Search, and re-verification of no records of criminal convictions or use of aliases. Hazlett successfully completed our volunteer screening process before he was allowed to volunteer. Also, as part of NewSpring's commitment to safety and security, every KidSpring room contains video cameras.

Leaders said as a result of Hazletts actions they will do more to increase the safety of children at the church.

Our church has and will always be fully committed to the safety and security of children. We have many policies in place that have provided safe environments for children the last 19 years. The events in Charleston, though, have shown us that it was possible for evil to find a way to breach our protection. Hazlett was brazen enough to violate the trust of children and the other volunteers serving at the time but outside of their view, the leaders said. We believe our current policies and procedures are strong, but as we move forward, we will install more measures and do whatever it takes to increase our ability to provide a safe church experience for children.

They also insisted that the churchs KidSpring program is still an extremely safe place for children to learn about Jesus and have a fun church experience and suggested the church move forward by choosing faith over fear.

In short, the way we move forward is to do whatever we can to make sure children are safe at our church, and then to continue to do our best to connect people to Jesus and to others in community. We can only do this if we allow our faith to triumph over any fear we face and if we allow love and compassion to push out hate and indifference. We are committed to doing these things, and we believe our NewSpring family will be as well, the leaders said.Pope Francis tells gay clergy: Better to leave ministry than live double life

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Pope Francis has affirmed that celibacy for Roman Catholic clergy is mandatory, telling gay clergy with romantic affections that it is better to leave the ministry than live a double life.

"The issue of homosexuality is a very serious issue that must be adequately discerned from the beginning with the candidates," the Vatican leader said in a newly released book, AFP reported.

"In our societies it even seems that homosexuality is fashionable and that mentality, in some way, also influences the life of the church," Francis stated in a declaration that was also published in The Strength of a Vocation.

"This is something I am concerned about, because perhaps at one time it did not receive much attention."

Francis went on to say that there is "no room" for romantic affection in the consecrated and priestly life.

He stressed that "homosexual priests, and men and women religious" need to "live celibacy with integrity, and above all, that they be impeccably responsible, trying to never scandalize either their communities or the faithful holy people of God."

As for those who seem unable to carry out their vows, Francis said: "It's better for them to leave the ministry or the consecrated life rather than to live a double life."

The worldwide Catholic church has been plagued by sexual abuse scandals uncovered in many different dioceses, with thousands of young children, both boys and girls, subjected to abuse.

In August, U.S. Bishop Robert Morlino of Madison, Wisconsin, argued in a letter that the "deviant sexual acts by clerics" are "almost exclusively homosexual" in nature.

"It is time to admit that there is a homosexual subculture within the hierarchy of the Catholic Church that is wreaking great devastation in the vineyard of the Lord, Morlino positioned at the time.

The Church's teaching is clear that the homosexual inclination is not in itself sinful, but it is intrinsically disordered in a way that renders any man stably afflicted by it unfit to be a priest.

The bishop's comments came in light of a Pennsylvania grand jury report that found that at least 301 priests had abused over 1,000 children in the state alone over several decades, and were often protected instead of punished by the institution.

Morlino claimed in his letter that "the decision to act upon this disordered inclination is a sin so grave that it cries out to heaven for vengeance, especially when it involves preying upon the young or the vulnerable.

Such wickedness should be hated with a perfect hatred. Christian charity itself demands that we should hate wickedness just as we love goodness, the bishop added.

Other theologians, including Janet E. Smith, a professor at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, have separately warned of a so-called "lavender mafia" of homosexual networks that supposedly pull the strings within church hierarchy.

While Catholic bishops in the U.S. planned to take action against clergy sexual abuse at their meeting last month, they were asked by the Vatican to delay it until a global summit at the Holy See scheduled for February takes place.Prosperity gospel boosts mood, encourages financial risk, weak on theology, study finds

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People who listen to prosperity gospel teachings feel more positive but they're not necessarily learning any theological content, a new study suggests.

The University of Toronto released last month a study in the journal of Psychology of Religion and Spirituality, which named such preachers as Joel Osteen, T.D. Jakes and Creflo Dollar.

The study, a copy of which was shared by author Nicholas M. Hobson of the Department of Psychology at the University of Toronto, noted that the prosperity gospel movement is "one of the fastest growing religious movements in America."

The prosperity gospel grew out of the 1950s grassroots Christian revival scene. The boom in prosperity gospel movements resulted from the popularization of televangelical figures such as Joel Osteen, Creflo Dollar, and T.D. Jakes, it states.

The central doctrine of the prosperity gospel is that God wants a person to be blessed. It says that material blessings are part of Gods will, and to benefit from these blessings, a person must (a) demonstrate positive thought or speech on a regular basis and (b) donate a certain amount of money to the church ministry.

With alternative names like seed faith and health and wealth faith, the majority of the prosperity gospels followers believe that sowing a seed (i.e., investing money in the way of church donations) will help them reap a future harvest.

The study included experiments where both theists and atheists were asked to listen to a prosperity gospel message, with their feelings measured afterward. It tested heightened optimistic bias and effects on financial risk-taking resulting from the teachings.

Specific to positive affect, we found that the prosperity gospel resulted in a boost of high-arousal positive affect, even for the group of atheists. This supports the idea that the prosperity gospels impact may be less about appealing to a persons beliefs and more about making them feel good in the moment, the study's authors found.

Together, the current findings imply that the prosperity gospels growing success as a religious belief system might be attributed to its arousing, positive experiences  not to its theological teachings, they stated.

Indeed, the finding that the prosperity gospel seems to generate a positivity bias even when people agree with it less, is evidence that the prosperity experience might not be about consideration of its teachings, but more about quick, in-the-moment emotional and motivational feel-good states.

In their conclusions, the researchers said that prosperity gospel messages heighten optimistic bias and risky financial behaviors."

They added that mood-boosting effects, rather than the religious content, seem to be more directly responsible for the growth of the prosperity gospel movement.

"Ironically, its success as a growing religious movement might be less about feeling God, and more about feeling good," they said.

The Christian Post has reached out to representatives of Osteen, Jakes and Dollar for a response to the study, and will update the article should any be received.

Lakewood Church spokesman Donald Iloff Jr. told The Houston Chronicle that Osteen's message is not exclusively about financial gain.

"To characterize the message focusing on material wealth is a rather shallow analysis of Joel's message," the spokesman argued. "He has said many times material things are not the focus."

Iloff added that Osteen talks about "a God who wants what's best for you," which could include owning a successful business.

Osteen has rejected the label of prosperity gospel pastor.

He told CP in October, "I think there is only one Gospel and that is the Gospel that Jesus died and rose again. When I think of prosperity, I think of someone asking for money. I don't do that."

"Prosperity is having good health and being able to sleep at night and having good relationships. It's having money to pay our bills and follow your dreams. It is not about wealth and getting rich. That is kind of what I see when I hear 'prosperity,'" he told CP. "I talk about all types of things. On purpose, I stay away from money [in my sermons] because people already think TV pastors are frauds and all that. I try to stay away from that, but I do believe God wants you to be blessed."

He noted, however, that he's not bothered when people call him a motivational speaker more so than a pastor, emphasizing that he wants to motivate people to know God.

"I have friends that are great teachers, I have other ones that speak on prophecy. To me, you got to be who God made you to be. I have been this way before I was a pastor. I was always upbeat and encouraging. That is where your anointing is  is what God made you to be," he said.Two mystery US evangelicals helped John Chau, Indian police say, admit 'no signs' of his body

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Indian police have said that they now believe two American evangelicals helped missionary John Allen Chau reach the North Sentinel island in the Andamans, where he was killed last month.

Chau is believed to have been shot to death by arrows on November 17. He was pursuing his years-long mission of preaching the Gospel with the Sentinelese tribespeople, who have no outside contact with the world and are a protected class.

Dependra Pathak, head of police in the Andaman and Nicobar islands, told AFP on Saturday that there are no signs of Chaus body.

What is more, he revealed that investigaotrs traced two Americans believed to have been helping him through Chaus telephone.

"We are investigating the role of at least two Americans, a man and a woman, who met with the man who went to the island," Pathak said.

"These other two, who have since left the country, were reportedly into evangelical activities and encouraged him to visit the island."

The identities or the organization the two Americans belong to have not been revealed, though the police chief said that they had "local mobile numbers.

Indian police previously arrested seven people, including six fishermen who helped Chau get to the island.

While Restricted Area Permit requirements for foreigners wishing to visit North Sentinel Island were reportedly lifted earlier this year, coming into contact with the tribe required further approval.

All Nations, the missionary team that trained Chau, told The Christian Post in a phone interview last week that it had no contact with Chau since October 16.

Pam Arlund, a member of the International Leadership Team at All Nations, said that the specifics of how he contacted the North Sentinelese were known to him, but not known to us."

Mary Ho, international executive leader of All Nations, separately said that Chau was emotionally, culturally, physically, intellectually very, very well prepared.

He was trained to be prudent, to take certain precautions, to understand culture, to understand languages, to understand what others have done before that may have worked, she told The Kansas City Star.

As for the search to recover Chau's body, which was reportedly suspended by Indian police, Arlund told CP that Chau himself would not want his body retrieved.

I can tell you that John did not want his body being recovered if something were to happen to him, she said.

Chau's grieving family have said that they forgive his killers. Arlund added that All Nations kindly requests that no charges be filed either against the North Sentinelese or against any other Indians that are in the area.

We recognize the tragedy of the circumstance and it has grieved us deeply but we are ready to forgive, the International Leadership Team member said.Former President George HW Bush Dies

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Former Republican President George Herbert Walker Bush, who served a term that saw the collapse of the Soviet Union and the first Gulf War, has died. He was 94 years old.

Former President George W. Bush released a statement through the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library Foundation confirming that the former Commander in Chief passed away on Friday.

Jeb, Neil, Marvin, Doro, and I are saddened to announce that after 94 remarkable years, our dear Dad has died, said W. Bush.

George H.W. Bush was a man of the highest character and the best dad a son or daughter could ask for. The entire Bush family is deeply grateful for 41s life and love, for the compassion of those who have cared and prayed for Dad, and for the condolences of our friends and fellow citizens.

Born in Milton, Massachusetts, in 1924, Bush served as a U.S. Navy pilot during World War II, flying 58 combat missions.

In January 1945, he married Barbara Pierce. The couple had six children, including former President George W. Bush and former Republican presidential hopeful and former governor of Florida Jeb Bush.

Moving to Texas to work in the oil industry, Bush eventually turned to politics, serving two terms in Congress and a series of high level federal posts including ambassador to the United Nations and director of the Central Intelligence Agency.

From 1981 to 1989 he served as vice president under President Ronald Reagan before being elected president in 1988. His administration oversaw the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union with the fall of the Berlin Wall that separated East and West Germany.

The Soviet Union ceased to exist; and reformist President Mikhail Gorbachev, whom Bush had supported, resigned. While Bush hailed the march of democracy, he insisted on restraint in U.S. policy toward the group of new nations, explained the White Houses official website.

In other areas of foreign policy, President Bush sent American troops into Panama to overthrow the corrupt regime of General Manuel Noriega, who was threatening the security of the canal and the Americans living there. Noriega was brought to the United States for trial as a drug trafficker.

In 1991, Bush oversaw Operation Desert Storm, in which a U.S.-led coalition of nations liberated the Middle Eastern nation of Kuwait after Iraq, under dictator Saddam Hussein, invaded.

Despite the foreign policy successes, Bush lost re-election in 1992 to Democrat challenger Bill Clinton due to a poor economy and a strong showing from independent candidate Ross Perot.

After leaving the White House, Bush maintained an active presence in politics and kept an active lifestyle. In 2009, to celebrate his 85th birthday, he went skydiving.

In 2001, Bush became the first president since John Adams to have a child elected commander in chief when his son, George W. Bush, was sworn in for his first term.

Raised in The Episcopal Church, Bush was known to be a devout Christian, according to historian Gary Scott Smith, retired chair of the history department at Grove City College.

Bush saw God as active and all-powerful and the Bible as divinely inspired and authoritative. One cannot be America's President, the Republican frequently asserted, without the strength that your faith gives to you, wrote Smith in a 2017 piece for The Christian Post.

The Bible, which had helped shape America's values and institutions, Bush attested, has always been a great source of comfort to me. He affirmed that Jesus was God's divine Son and frequently referred to Christ as our Savior. Moreover, Bush peppered his speeches with biblical quotations, precepts, and stories to underscore his positions.

In 2012, Bush was diagnosed with vascular Parkinsonism, a condition similar to Parkinsons that left him wheelchair bound.

On April 17, Bushs wife, Barbara, died. According to a family spokesperson, the former president was by her side to the very end.

He held her hand all day today and was at her side when [she] left this good earth, said former chief of staff Jean Becker, as reported by The New York Post.

The day after Barbaras funeral, Bush was sent to intensive care at Houston Methodist Hospital due to a blood infection. A statement released April 23 by the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library Foundation said that the former president was responding to treatments and appears to be recovering.

Bush was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, as well as their daughter, Pauline Robinson Bush, who died of leukemia in 1953 just shy of her 4th birthday.Evangelical leader expresses concern over mother forcing son to identify as a girl

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Many, including evangelical leader Al Mohler, are expressing their concerns over the circumstances surrounding a 6-year-old boy who's being compelled by his mother to identify as a girl.

Recently, it was reported that a Texas man named Jeff Younger, who objects to his ex-wife pushing their 6-year-old son, James, into identifying as a girl, was in danger of losing custody of him after he was accused of abusive behavior.

The charge of abusive behavior reportedly stemmed from his engaging in non-affirming actions with James, namely treating his son like a boy by cutting his hair short and having him wear boys' clothes.

Mohler, president of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, described the custody battle and the possibility of James being forced to undergo gender transition as a truly scary story.

At the base, the story is about the very lie of the transgender revolutionaries who want to tell us that when you're talking about a 6-year-old boy, who at least at times at his mother's house takes on the identity of a girl named Luna, we are told that we are to abandon all concern, said Mohler.

We are to throw away all restraint and under the demands of the new sexual revolutionaries, we are to celebrate this transition and declare that it must be so simply because in every case presented along these lines, it must be so.

Mohler added that he believed this showed that the new mandate is that transgender identity wins over everything else including all reason.

A website named Save James was set up by people identifying themselves as friends of Jeff Younger, with them calling for prayer, awareness and action.

If you are moved by concern to support or take action in some way, I ask that you write our lawmakers and representatives about the great need for the protection of our children, reads an entry on the site.

We love this family and desire in all things to be loving and above reproach. I do hope that you will share my desire for the best for all involved.

According to the father, the sons transgender identity was a decision that was made by his mother when he was 3. Youngers supporters claim that the mother began dressing the twin boy as a girl and calling the child by the name Luna.

The mother then took the child to a therapist, where he was diagnosed with gender dysphoria. The child was then enrolled in social transitioning therapy to prepare him for chemical castration, which is being performed on children as young as 8 years old.

Walt Heyer, who used to identify as a transgender woman but is now an outspoken critic of the push for children to identify as transgender, helped spread greater awareness of the controversy surrounding the 6-year-old boy in an op-ed published by The Federalist.

Younger told Heyer that when his son is not with his mother, he refuses to wear girls' clothes.

According to Heyer, eyewitness accounts from friends have corroborated the fathers claims.

Based on the three occasions Ive spent time with [James], Id say he acts and looks unmistakably like a healthy 6-year-old boy, Heyer quoted Bill Lovell, the senior pastor of Christ Church Carrollton, as saying. I am praying for James, an average 6-year-old boy, a sweet-natured, intelligent, lovable and at this point particularly vulnerable young man, caught up in a titanic clash of worldviews.

Heyer argued that "the glaring disparity between a childs preferred identity when in the presence of one parent versus the other should cause a therapist to reassess, perhaps nullify the diagnosis of gender dysphoria, and terminate any steps toward transition. But in the case of James, this hasnt happened.

James has no idea what he is in for or how his gender journey will play out, but with an incorrect diagnosis it will be ugly. I became very concerned about James because he is not exhibiting the diagnostic attributes of gender dysphoria.Lutherans are the biggest consumers of alcohol among Protestant Christians, poll finds

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Among Protestant Christians in the United States, Lutherans are most likely to say that they consume alcohol while Pentecostals are least likely, a recently released LifeWay Research poll has found.

The poll, which was conducted in August 2017 but released Tuesday, found that over 75 percent of Lutherans surveyed answered yes when asked if they drink alcohol. Meanwhile, 62 percent of Methodist respondents responded with the same answer.

By comparison, just 43 percent of nondenominational Christians, 33 percent of Baptists and 23 percent of Assemblies of God/Pentecostal Christians said that they consume alcohol.

The survey is based on a sample of 1,010 American churchgoers and has a margin of error of 3.1 percent.

In total, 59 percent of Protestant Americans say they do not drink alcohol, while 41 percent said they do. There is not much statistical change from a 2007 LifeWay survey of Protestant laity that found that 39 percent of Protestant churchgoers said they drink alcohol.

Churchgoers perspectives on alcohol are not changing very fast, LifeWay Research Executive Director Scott McConnell said in a statement. The majority believe that biblically they can drink, but they choose not to.

The 2017 poll also found that 23 percent of respondents somewhat or strongly agreed that Scripture indicates that people should never drink alcohol. Seventy-two percent of Protestant churchgoers somewhat or strongly disagreed with that statement. In 2007, 29 percent of respondents agreed with that statement.

Fifty-five percent of respondents in 2017 said that Scripture indicates all beverages, including alcohol, can be consumed without sin. In 2007, 60 percent said the same.

Fifty-four percent of respondents agreed that drinking reasonable amounts is an act of biblical liberty, while 30 percent disagreed and 16 percent were unsure. Sixty-eight percent of Lutherans, 66 percent of nondenominational, 49 percent of Baptists and 44 percent of Assemblies of God/Pentecostals agreed with that statement.

Sixty percent of respondents in the 2017 survey agreed that when a Christian partakes of alcohol in a social setting, they could cause other believers to stumble or be confused. Among those with evangelical beliefs, 74 percent agreed. Less than half (44 percent) of those with nonevangelical beliefs said the same.

While alcohol consumption continues to be seen as mainstream in the United States, churchgoers attitudes about drinking havent changed much in the past decade, McConnell added.

Although most Protestant Christians feel that consuming alcohol is not a sin, 87 percent of respondents said they agree with the statement: Scripture indicates that people should never get drunk. Only eight percent disagreed with that statement.

Hispanics (96 percent) were most likely to agree that Scripture indicates that people should never get drunk. Those attending church services at least once per week are more likely (88 percent to 78 percent) than those attending once or twice per month to agree that Scripture warns against getting drunk, according to the 2017 survey. Additionally, those with evangelical beliefs were more likely (94 percent to 78 percent) to agree that Scripture warns against getting drunk.

While 89 percent of Baptists, 95 percent of nondenominational Protestants and 93 percent of Assemblies of God/Pentecostals agreed that Scripture warns against drunkenness, Lutherans and Methodists were least likely to agree  76 percent of Lutherans and 69 percent of Methodists agreed with that statement.Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

On November 17, 2018, 26-year-old Christian missionary John Allen Chau was killed while attempting to evangelize the native Sentinelese people of North Sentinel Island, India. The wake of the tragedy has seen intense global media interest in the case, with many people dismissing Chau as a fatuous thrillseeker, a dangerous zealot, a subversive colonialist  or all of the above.

However, not all assessments have been negative. In his fascinating article Should Missionaries Just Stay Away?, theologian and professor John Stackhouse offers a very different assessment of Chau as a brave young man doing what brave young Christians should. In this conversation, I spoke with John about his article and the issues it raises.

RR: John, thanks for writing your article Should Missionaries Just Stay Away? Its a very interesting defense of John Chaus evangelistic efforts and one that was well worthy of further reflection. So for starters, what prompted you to write this article?

JS: I read a piece issued by a prominent American medium (Religion News Service) that was really badly written, a hodge-podge of fact, stereotype, and outright falsehood that almost certainly was published only because the author identified herself as both a former evangelical Christian and a Native American wrestling with her own identities as such. I sincerely sympathize with people sorting out such intersectional challenges, but its best if they dont publicly slag whole communities (e.g., evangelicals, missionaries) while they do soand she did. Essentially, because missionaries have often been implicated in colonialism, then John Allen Chau was an imperialist because he was a missionary. Thats a logical problem of a pretty basic order, of course, and its also a wild overstatement about the history of missions. So I thought, since Im something of an authority on evangelicalism and Ive taught the history of missions, I might usefully speak up on these matters.

RR: Thanks, thats helpful. I find the Chau case fascinating because it brings together a broad nexus of complex issues and Id like to pick your brain on some of them. Id like to start with what seems to me to be a shift in the way many evangelical Christians view pioneering missionaries and their work.

Back in 2002 when I was teaching at Briercrest College, I met Bruce Olson during his visit to deliver some guest lectures. Olson was made famous for his work with the Motilone people of Colombia and Venezuela and I had held him in high esteem since Id read his autobiography Bruchko as a kid. Indeed, growing up, people like Olson were the closest thing to an evangelical saint.

In your article, you make reference to another famous evangelical missionary, Jim Elliot, who was martyred in 1956 while attempting to evangelize the Huaorani people of Ecuador. For generations, Christians like Olson and Elliot have represented the noblest expression of the evangelical aspiration to follow Christ.

One thing that struck me about the reaction to Chau was how many Christians, and evangelicalsin particular, seemed to be dismissive of and even hostile toward his efforts. Do you think that there has been a shift in attitude toward the work of the pioneering missionary? And if so, what do you suppose is driving it?

JS: There arent many heroes left outside superhero comics and movies, are there? Not unalloyed saints, thats for sure. And thats okay: No one but Jesus has been perfect, and were right to keep our critical faculties about us even when, and sometimes especially when, someone is presented to us in glorious robes of sanctity.

That said, I agree that its weird, verging on the pathological, the way even fellow Christians have sharply criticized this young man, initially assuming he was a fanatic who knew nothing about diseases (wrong), languages (wrong), tribal cultures (wrong), and the dark history of imperialism (wrong). In fact, he and his sending agency seem to have been impressively responsible on all those counts. So whats the problem?

Then we have evangelical Christians chiding him for breaking the law in preaching the gospel to people the government had said were off limits. Excuse me? Anyone read the Book of Acts recently?

The most serious charge is that the islanders had made it clear they didnt want anyone from the outside to visit. Given what seems to have been their awful experience of British colonialism a generation ago, no wonder they didnt. But does that mean no one ever brings them the benefits of modernity, condemning themand their childrento a life without analgesics, anaesthetics, and antibiotics? Without refrigeration and metal tools and shoes and dentistry and books? Why not attempt to give them positive experiences, rather than just saying, Oh, well, they dont want our help. Thats like leaving a traumatized kid in the basement of his tormentors house while making sure only that the tormentor is gone.

So was Chau foolish to go in alone? Some Christians are criticizing him for breaking the missionary rule they derive from the Bible about going in twos. But that was once or twice in Jesuss own ministry. Jesus himself spoke alone to the woman at the well, Philip was directed by the Spirit to speak alone to the Ethiopian eunuch, Paul presumably spoke alone to his jailers (!), and so on, and so on. Indeed, one might make the case that Chau was so aware of the islanders fear of outsiders that he went to them as non-frighteningly and non-imperialistically as he could: by himself, unarmed, utterly vulnerable. What should he have done? Go in heavy with a commando team? Sheesh.

RR: One of the fragments of Chaus story that has courted controversy is the fact that in the days prior to his death, he wrote in his journal, Lord, is this island Satans last stronghold where none have heard or even had the chance to hear your name? Unfortunately, but not surprisingly, many people seem to have thought that language quite literally demonizes the people to which Chau was ministering. But from the perspective of an evangelical Christian, that is familiar spiritualized language of concern for people who have never heard the Gospel. Youve already touched on the ways that Chau was misunderstood (e.g. weird, imperialistic) but perhaps you could say a bit more about that with an eye to the wider cultural perception of evangelicals.

JS: Biblically speaking, Chaus language is unusualthe Bible doesnt mention Satan very oftenand evangelicals nervous about their public profile might want such language tamped down. But it isnt wrong. In this world, Satan rules where Jesus doesnt. Why Chau is asking that question of the Lord isnt obvious. Maybe he subscribes to the idea that the Lord will return once everyone on earth is evangelized. But hes not wrong to wonder about the islanders, given how few unreached peoples are left on earth, and hes not wrong to phrase it that way.

RR: You say that Satan rules where Jesus doesnt with the implication being that Satan rules in lands where the Gospel has yet to be proclaimed. However, many Christians would push back against this framing of the issue. For example, at Vatican II, the Catholic Church embraced Karl Rahners idea of anonymous Christians, people who are following Christ even prior to having heard the Gospel. If one takes that inclusivist view of salvation, namely that salvation can include those who have not yet heard the Gospel, then one might not be so quick to judge a society as Satans stronghold prior to the verbal proclamation of the Gospel.

What are your thoughts on the exclusivist/inclusivist debate and how it might shape the way we interpret the actions of a missionary like Chau?

JS: Thanks for this push-back. Let me be more clear. Jesus is Lord is the earliest confession of the Christian Church and the foundation of the Christian view of things. Satan rules only to the extent that Jesus allows him toand, indeed, to the extent that we human beings, who were originally supposed to govern the earth under God, allow him to.

When I say that Satan rules where Jesus doesnt, I mean that in situations in which Gods way is not followed, Satan holds sway. (In this locution I am not distinguishing Jesus from God.) But that doesnt mean that Satan rules everywhere that isnt explicitly Christian, and in two respects.

First, I agree with you that there are individuals, families, and even whole tribes that have come under the influence of the Holy Spirit such that they are reconciled to God (through the work of Jesus, to be sure) even though they havent yet heard the actual story of Jesus. (I hold to evangelical inclusivism, to use the theological terminology.) So just because a person, family, or community isnt yet Christian doesnt mean Jesus isnt already ruling there.

Second, there are individuals, families, and whole communities that call themselves Christian and manifestly disobey Jesus and instead pretty clearly follow the way of the Adversary.

What I meant, then, and what I mean is that in the final analysis, we human beings serve one lord or the other. Since the Sentinel Islanders, about whom we know only a little, to be sure, seem not to practice Christianity or anything like it, Chau appropriately wondered about their spiritual status. But it is important to note that he is wondering, he is asking the Lord a question, not pronouncing from afar on their spiritual status.

RR: Much of the negative reaction to Chau has been based on the assumption that his actions were impulsive and unplanned. But that is most certainly not the case. Mary Ho, the head of All Nations, the mission agency that sent Chau, pointed out that Chau had sensed a calling to the North Sentinelese since he was a teenager. She observed: Even as a young man, before we met him, every decision he made, every step he took, was to share the love of God with the North Sentinelese.

Could you say something about the concept of calling and particularly the notion that God might call his children to acts of service that could involve mortal peril?

JS: What John Chau seems definitely not to have been is impulsive. Instead, he was resolute. He might have been wrongany of us can be, even about important things about which we have prayed. But he was following what to him was a path blessed by God: a sense of calling, an opportunity to train properly with a responsible mission, and even fishermen willing to transport him secretly to the island. At any point, God could have put a halt to Chaus dream. And when his first attempt ended with an arrow through his Bible, lots of his critics have said he should have quit then and there. But why? The islanders were behaving exactly as Chau would have expected them to. So why quit?

Missionary history is in fact full of stories of pioneers cut down upon first contact, only to be replaced by more who were inspired by the initial story who then enjoy success. Let me be clear that of course I am not defending any and all missionary endeavours. Some of them have indeed seemed foolish and fruitless. But I am defending the simple point that someone has to be first, and that someone may well pay the ultimate price in order to get the conversation going. Thats what John Chau did, and its way too early to write off his self-sacrifice as foolish and worthless. Lets just see what happens next.

Last point: For Christians, the worst thing in the world isnt dying. Its failing to do the will of God. John Chau, by those principles, made the right choice. Thats why I call him a martyr.Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

Dear Sister,

Youve undoubtedly received backlash for your recent comments on homosexuality. Is this backlash merited? Let me first say that I am your fan. You've ministered to me on multiple occasions, and I trust you will continue to do so. For a while I played "Trust In You" every morning on my way to work. It was my post-devotional habit.

Your recent expedition to public fame had the Body of Christ cheering you on as we watched you perform on Ellen, Jimmy Fallon, and other platforms not routinely frequented by Christian artists. I understand some Christians took issue with your performances, given the worldview that Ellen and others unabashedly affirm. I'm sorry for that. You were taking the opportunity to witness on a platform that few Christians will ever have. Good on you.

But last week you were tested. In an interview on The Domenic Nati Show you were asked a fiercely controversial question that would challenge the delivery process of any publicly-known Christian:

Is homosexuality a sin?

To which you replied:

I can't say one way or the other, Im not God."

Lauren, dear sister in Christ, you failed this test. But look at it this way: These tests are not one-and-done. What you do in the wake of this failure can have a substantially redemptive impact.

I get it. You were in a tight spot. If you explicitly claim homosexuality to be a sin, then you risk losing a large portion of your audience, and thus losing their ear to the gospel message. I get it. Carl Lentz, pastor of Hillsong Church NYC, faced a similar dilemma while appearing on The View. When asked whether he thought abortion is sin, he replied, Before I tell you about what I think sin is, I would like to know your name, without directly providing a yes or no answer.

In the wake of immediate backlash, Lentz did tweet explicitly that he believed abortion to be a sin but that he felt the understandable weight of fear of losing the ear of many non-Christians who he otherwise could minister to.

I encourage you to do likely.

You said:

I cant honestly answer on that, in the sense of I have too many people that I love and they are homosexuals.

How does your love for them logically conclude that their lifestyle is not sin? Your love for them should be manifested in affirming truth and restoration in their lives  not affirming what hurts them. The first and greatest commandment is to love God, then people. But you're honoring neither in this case.

Gods command to love everyone was NOT a call to love their sin. Indeed, our love for people should fuel our hate for sin. Youve been given the chance to be a shining beacon. But dont shine for culture. Shine for Jesus, and shine His light into the very culture that desperately needs Him.

You said:

I dont know, Im not God.

Lauren, you dont have to be God to know what is and isn't sin. You're not God, but you know that as Christians we are called to reach the lost. How do you know this? Because it's written in the Bible  the same Bible that affirms your song "You Say" speaking of Christ's love for us.

Why couldnt you have said yes I do believe its a sin but I love them anyway or even just blamed the Bible and say I do believe that the Bible teaches it to be a sin without making it your personal opinion. Sugar coating the truth only paves the way to deceive a bigger crowd.

This is not a time to fraternize with the enemy. This is a time to free the lost from the enemys grasp.

You said:

Its so sad that people think because Ellens gay shes bad.

Agreed. Well, kind of. I think everyone is bad, per scripture, but to be fair to you I think you mean extra or exclusively bad. Look, the Bible tells us not to judge those outside of the Church since they dont have the Holy Spirit and thus have no reason to believe that they should pursue godly lives. But that's a different topic. I just mentioned it because you brought it up in the interview and it it's an important subtopic to discuss.

Homosexuality is not a super sin. However, the affirmation of any sin is an egregious assault on the cross.

Because of sin, Gods attribute of justice demanded a flawless sacrifice  a role only Jesus could fill. This justice, coupled with Gods attribute of love, demanded that He fill that role. Jesus put Himself on the cross because it was required if He wanted to bridge the sin-caused gap between Him and His beloved creation. Lauren, Im not trying to teach you this. I know you already know it. But I say it to emphasize the point that affirming sin, a primary component to Jesus death on the cross, is nothing to sneeze at.

To be fair to you, I cant say with certainty that youre saying oh well to sin but rather youre wrestling with whether the Bible teaches it to be sin. If so, your transparency about biblical confusion is admirable. Better to say I dont know than to formulate an unsupported position. However, while some issues arent super clear in the Bible, some are certainly clearer than others. This issue, even when hermeneutically dissected, is clear.

Weve seen this narrative before.

In Genesis 3 we see the Fall of Man initiated by a simple question, hath God really said? Im not equating you with the serpent, nor the deceptibility of Eve. But youre advancing an identical narrative by appropriating the same posture towards Gods commands.

In conclusion let me remind you that this letter is a note of love, encouragement, and accountability. If- rather when you receive hateful backlash please remember the Christians like me who are cheering you on and feel compelled to critique you as you serve as an influential ambassador to the Kingdom.

Remember the words of the song that propelled you into this spotlight:

I keep fighting voices in my mind that say Im not enough

Every single lie that tells me I will never measure up

Am I more than just the sum of every high and every low?

Remind me once again just who I am, because I need to know

Lauren, if ever you needed these words, remember them now. This failure, and I unapologetically call it a failure, does not identify you. Your identity is in Christ. This failure does not define you  unless you let it define you.

Originally posted at johnwesleyreid.comJamas nos callaran



Fisica y culturalmente



Nec plus ultra, nec variatur



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Paginas vistas en total

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Sin ellas, no seremos



Deja vu



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Hasta cuando?



Colombia Hoy



Para nunca olvidar



'Parasite' painted on a statue of Queen, Elizabeth in Kent, England



Sin palabras



La UE le apunta a la paz



Cada vez mas solo



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LULA y su Pueblo



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Homenaje al genial Quino



Fueron ellos



Una imagen que resume



Tan bajo ha caido que se deja tocar el trasero?



Porky y el Nene (archiconocido narcotraficante)



Ladrones al poder



Asi mira el perrito a su amo



Crazy



Clamor popular



La nueva inquisicion



Bolivia



Chile Hoy



Eso es todo amigos!



Piensalo!



Pinerachet



No More Trump



Adios Macri, hasta nunca



La Marioneta se desinfla



Asi o mas cinico



Almugre



Mexico en 1794



Mas arrastrado imposible



Hasta cuando!



La pura verdad



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Serie Capitalismo



Espejismos de la clase trabajadora



Asi es!



Comerciantes o delincuentes



No pasaran!



Asi es la vida



USA HOY



01/01/1959



La avaricia no tiene limites



AYUDA HUMANITARIA?



Chile Hoy



Asi son las cosas



Mapa Electoral de Venezuela



Patagonia argentina?



Un aniversario mas del mayor genocidio de la Humanidad



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El Chulo de Madrid



Cuando la policia se roba la democracia



Una imagen dice mas que mil palabras



La purita verdad



Asi gobierna la maldita burguesia



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Como Chavez nadie



Comparte La Colmena via twitter Twittear

Programa de la MUD



Asi o mas clarito



Por que Trump no ataco Corea del Norte?



Hace 15 anos Por que la OEA no se pronuncio?



Una verguenza nacional



La luz que nos guia



La Union Europea Premio Nobel de la Paz?



Feudalismo ayer y hoy



Obama, el mentiroso



Curiosa coincidencia



Un mundo de cerdos



No es extrano?



La Marioneta



Los ricos protestan, los pobres celebran



MARICORI Y OBAMA



Cuantas muertes este ano?



USA TODAY



USA HOY 6



USA HOY 5



USA HOY 4



USA HOY 3



USA HOY 2



USA HOY (1)



Insaciable



Cronologia de un agresor



Guarimbear en USA



Mexico hoy



Bolivar y Chavez



Primero Amargado



Dios los cria y ellos se juntan



USA hoy (III)



USA hoy (II)



USA hoy



Mexico hoy



Mexico hoy



Mexico hoy



Obama



La verdad sea dicha



Los ricos



Que no nos vea Obama



Pobre Obama



SOS PALESTINA



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Chavez Cuanto te queremos!



Por culpa de Chavez



Cerveza Polar







Algun dia Colombia volvera a la ideologia de Bolivar







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LOS REVOLUCIONARIOS NO TOMAN CACA-COLA No se trata solamente de un capricho, sino de una sana actitud en todos los sentidos. Desde la solidaridad con el pueblo colombiano donde la empresa Caca-Cola ha cometido los mas grandes abusos contra sus trabajadores incluyendo el presunto secuestro y asesinato de los dirigentes del sindicato, hasta la proteccion de la salud de nuestros hijos, enviciados por ese jarabe de cola y azucar, que les produce obesidad prematura. Pensemos tambien los revolucionarios, que ese dinero que gastamos en los refrescos es utilizado por esas empresas para financiar el terrorismo en nuestro pais. Es cierto, no se trata solo de la Caca-Cola, sino tambien de la cerveza, de los cigarrillos y todos esos articulos innecesarios y mas que eso, daninos para nuestra salud. Podriamos incluso pensar en un dia de parada para cada uno de ellos. Es cuestion de irnos organizando. Pero para empezar, que tal si dejamos de comprar Caca-Cola y sus similares?



























Cuando lo extraordinario se vuelve cotidiano...



Discurso del Acto de Grado en Barinas en 12 de Febrero del 2005 Queridos Graduandos:



Mas que un discurso, quiero dirigirles algunas palabras que escribi anoche, despues de visitar en las clinicas, a los estudiantes heridos, a consecuencia de los enfrentamientos con la policia de hace apenas dos dias.



Me ha tocado por razones del destino, ser la persona que les otorgue el titulo que bien merecieron con sus estudios. Y me siento sumamente orgulloso de serlo. Me consta que la Universidad de Los Llanos Occidentales Ezequiel Zamora, a pesar de lo dicho por los enemigos de esta universidad, es una universidad de primera.



No tendremos la mejor planta fisica, en los salones hace calor. En el comedor hace calor. Pero no es en lo material que las cosas deben valorarse. El mayor capital es el ser humano. Y en eso, nuestra UNELLEZ, lo digo con conocimiento de causa, esta sobrada. Los llaneros venezolanos son nobles, valientes, de coraje.



En la UNELLEZ hacen vida, en este momento, aproximadamente 67000 personas. El 97% de ellas son estudiantes. Jovenes que, como Ustedes hasta el dia de hoy, buscan ese titulo, que constata los anos de dedicacion y de estudio.



Los jovenes son el rio de la vida, ustedes graduados deben ser los capitanes de esos barcos que naveguen por el rio de la vida.



Nuestra Patria atraviesa momentos muy dificiles porque decidio dejar de ser esa matrona de edad vetusta y complaciente, para ser joven, rebelde y altanera. Nuestra imagen ya no es la de una acaudalada ricachona mayamera. En nuestro rostro brilla ahora la sonrisa del Che Guevara, con su diente delantero torcido, su pelo largo y su boina con la estrella.



Entender esto, a mi me ha tomado practicamente toda la vida. Tengo 53 anos, y ya perdi mi oportunidad de derramar sangre joven a causa de un ideal.



Ustedes son jovenes, estan en la flor de la vida. No cometan por favor el error de renunciar a su instinto de rebelion. El Che Guevara fue Ministro de a Economia en Cuba. Los billetes y las monedas se adornaban con su rostro. Nada de eso le importo. Primero fue a Angola donde paso un penoso ano de combate. Despues se fue a Bolivia, donde encontro la muerte. El Che era el ultimo que comia, el que cargaba la mochila mas pesada. Siempre se sacrificaba por los demas en un estoicismo que mas parecia fervor religioso que ideologia marxista.



Si quieren un modelo de vida. Ahi lo tienen.



Dije hace unos momentos que el 97% de la poblacion de la UNELLEZ es estudiante. Se imaginan Ustedes la Universidad que podriamos tener si todos los estudiantes tuvieran la abnegacion, la combatividad del Che?



Los momentos que se avecinan van a requerir de una gran unidad del pueblo venezolano. La alternativa de continuar siendo libres o regresar a la pobreza se nos planteara en los proximos dias de forma enmascarada, o quizas peor, desenmascarada, vestida con uniforme de soldado del Imperio.



Por nuestra parte podemos esperar lo mejor. La macroeconomia no podria ir mejor, la justicia social ha mejorado notablemente. Las misiones ocupan un papel muy importante en el pago de dicha justicia social. Aqui en Barinas ya hemos cumplido con dos de las misiones, la mision Robinson y la mision Sucre. No hay analfabetismo y no hay exclusion en la educacion superior, en estas tierras de Zamora.



Pero ay malhaya! Son precisamente estos exitos los que nos hacen mas antipaticos al Imperio. Para ellos, somos inclusive un mal ejemplo que se esta contagiando al resto del continente y cuidado sino al resto del mundo.



Nunca venceremos al Imperio. Estara siempre ahi, acechando. Por lo menos hasta que el mismo no se autodestruya. Porque, sepanlo senores, el neoliberalismo es canibal. Cuando le ataque el hambre, se devorara a si mismo.



Ustedes, queridos graduandos, a partir de hoy pasan a conformar la elite profesional que debe sostener este pais en los proximos cuarenta o cincuenta anos. Anos decisivos para el logro de nuestra libertad y del rescate de nuestra Soberania.



No se dejen comprar. No se dejen corromper. No se dejen gritar. No se dejen pisar. Que nadie les diga que comer, o que vestirse, o que leer. Sean siempre autenticos, rebeldes, contestatarios. Pero eso si, profundamente patriotas, dignos de ser hijos de Bolivar.



Muchas gracias y que Dios los bendiga.





Alguna duda?



Medio siglo de Holocausto Palestino



Oscar Zanartu Nacio en Caracas en 1960. Ha realizado exposiciones individuales en las galerias Minotauro, Clave y San Francisco, y en salas de Coro, estado Falcon, y Puerto Ordaz, estado Bolivar. En Paris su obra ha sido exhibida en el Centro Cultural Tanagra, en la Exposicion Cite Internationale des Arts, en las galerias De Mars y Arver Space, al igual que en la Galeria Municipal Levallois, en Levallois Perret (Francia). En muestras colectivas, su obra se ha expuesto en Belgica, Francia, Estados Unidos y Venezuela; en Caracas intervino en la exposicion "Del genesis a la memoria", 1995, organizada por la Fundacion La Previsora. En 1982 obtuvo el Premio Nacional Critven y en 1990 la Mencion de Honor Jose Antonio Paez, en la Embajada de Venezuela en Paris. En 1991 se le concedio el primer premio de Pintura Itinerante, en Levallois Perret, Francia.



OZ1



OZ2



OZ3



OZ4



Homenaje a Jason Galarraga



La Victoria de Samotracia



Odalisca



Mas fotos de la nevada del pasado agosto 2008



























La Sierra Nevada de Merida



Nuestro precioso Churum Meru



Homenaje a Picasso



Autoretrato



Sabes lo que bebes en una Coca-Cola?

La formula de la Pepsi tiene una diferencia basica con la de la Coca-Cola y es intencional, para evitar el proceso judicial. La diferencia es a proposito, pero suficientemente parecida como para atraer a los consumidores de Coca-Cola que prefieren un gusto diferente con menos sal y azucar.

Mi profesion?

Tuve que aprender quimica, entender todo sobre componentes de gaseosas, conservantes, sales, acidos, cafeina, enlatado, produccion, permisos, aprobaciones y muchas otras cosas. Monte mi propio mini-laboratorio de analisis de productos.

Sal en la Coca Cola?

A patadas. El Cloruro de Sodio no solo refresca sino da mas sed, como para pedir otra gaseosa. Y no resulta desagradable porque la sal mata literalmente la sensibilidad al dulce... del que por cierto tambien tiene mucho: 39 gramos de azucar.

De los 350 gramos de producto liquido, mas del 10% es azucar, o sea que en una lata de Coca-Cola mas de un centimetro y medio es puro azucar en polvo. Aproximadamente tres cucharadas soperas llenas de azucar por lata!!La formula de la Coca Cola es muy sencilla:

Concentrado de azucar quemado caramelo- para dar color oscuro y gusto

Acido fosforito (para darle el sabor acido)

azucar (HFCS-jarabe de maiz de alta fructosa)

Extracto de hojas de la planta de Coca (Africa e India) y otros pocos aromatizantes naturales de otras plantas

Mucha Cafeina

Conservante que puede ser Benzoato de Sodio o Potasio

Dioxido de Carbono en cantidad para sentir freir la lengua cuando se bebe

Sal para dar la sensacion de refrigeracion

El uso del acido fosforito y no del acido citrico como en todas las demas gaseosas, es para dar la sensacion de dientes y boca limpia al beber. El acido fosforito literalmente frie todo y dana el esmalte de los dientes, cosa que el acido citrico lo hace en menor grado.Trate de comprar acido fosforito para ver las mil recomendaciones de seguridad que te dan para su manipulacion (quema el cristalino del ojo, quema la piel, etc...). Esta prohibido usar el acido fosforito en cualquier otra gaseosa; solo la Coca Cola tiene permiso. Porque claro, sin el acido fosforico, la Coca Cola sabria a jabon.El extracto de coca y otras hojas casi no cambia en nada el sabor. Es mas bien un efecto cosmetico. El extracto forma parte de la Coca-Cola porque legalmente tiene que ser asi. Pero sin el, no se nota ninguna diferencia en el gusto, que esta dado basicamente por las cantidades diferentes de azucar, azucar quemada, sales, acidos y conservantes.Sabor a que...? ja, ja, ja.

Aqui en Bartow, sur de Orlando, hay una empresa quimica que produce aromatizantes y esencias para zumos. Envian diariamente camionadas de sales concentradas y esencias para las fabricas de helados, gaseosas, jugos, enlatados y comida colorida y aromatizada.Cuando visite por primera vez la fabrica, pedi ver el deposito de concentrados de frutas, que deberia ser inmenso, especialmente los de naranja, pina, fresa y tantos otros. El encargado me miro, se rio y me llevo a visitar los depositos inmensos... pero de colorantes y componentes quimicos.

Las gaseosa de naranja no contiene naranja.

En los zumos dizque de fresa, hasta los puntitos que quedan en suspension estan hechos de goma (una liga quimica que envuelve un semi-polimero).

Pina, es un popurri de acidos y goma.

La esencia para helado de aguacate usa peroxido de hidrogeno (agua oxigenada) para dar la sensacion espumosa tipica del aguacate.

Bebidas Light?

Quieres saber la cantidad de basura que tiene un refresco 'light'? Yo ni siquiera los uso para destapar mi lavaplatos pues temo que danen los tubos de PVC. Los productos endulzantes 'ligth' tienen una vida media muy corta. Por ejemplo el

Despues de toda mi experiencia con la produccion de bebidas embasadas, puedo afirmar sin dudar un segundo: la mejor bebida es el agua, como tambien los jugos exprimidos de naranja o limon. Nada mas, cero azucar y cero sal.



Publicado por loretahur



En realidad, la formula secreta de la Coca-Cola se puede detallar en 18 segundos en cualquier espectrometro optico, y basicamente la conocen hasta los perros. Lo que ocurre es que no se puede fabricar igual, a no ser que uno disponga de unos cuantos millones de dolares para ganarle la demanda que te metera la Coca-Cola ante la justicia (ellos no perderian).La formula de la Pepsi tiene una diferencia basica con la de la Coca-Cola y es intencional, para evitar el proceso judicial. La diferencia es a proposito, pero suficientemente parecida como para atraer a los consumidores de Coca-Cola que prefieren un gusto diferente con menos sal y azucar.Tuve que aprender quimica, entender todo sobre componentes de gaseosas, conservantes, sales, acidos, cafeina, enlatado, produccion, permisos, aprobaciones y muchas otras cosas. Monte mi propio mini-laboratorio de analisis de productos.A patadas. El Cloruro de Sodio no solo refresca sino da mas sed, como para pedir otra gaseosa. Y no resulta desagradable porque la sal mata literalmente la sensibilidad al dulce... del que por cierto tambien tiene mucho: 39 gramos de azucar.De los 350 gramos de producto liquido, mas del 10% es azucar, o sea que en una lata de Coca-Cola mas de un centimetro y medio es puro azucar en polvo. Aproximadamente tres cucharadas soperas llenas de azucar por lata!!La formula de la Coca Cola es muy sencilla:Concentrado de azucar quemado caramelo- para dar color oscuro y gustoAcido fosforito (para darle el sabor acido)azucar (HFCS-jarabe de maiz de alta fructosa)Extracto de hojas de la planta de Coca (Africa e India) y otros pocos aromatizantes naturales de otras plantasMucha CafeinaConservante que puede ser Benzoato de Sodio o PotasioDioxido de Carbono en cantidad para sentir freir la lengua cuando se bebeSal para dar la sensacion de refrigeracionEl uso del acido fosforito y no del acido citrico como en todas las demas gaseosas, es para dar la sensacion de dientes y boca limpia al beber. El acido fosforito literalmente frie todo y dana el esmalte de los dientes, cosa que el acido citrico lo hace en menor grado.Trate de comprar acido fosforito para ver las mil recomendaciones de seguridad que te dan para su manipulacion (quema el cristalino del ojo, quema la piel, etc...). Esta prohibido usar el acido fosforito en cualquier otra gaseosa; solo la Coca Cola tiene permiso. Porque claro, sin el acido fosforico, la Coca Cola sabria a jabon.El extracto de coca y otras hojas casi no cambia en nada el sabor. Es mas bien un efecto cosmetico. El extracto forma parte de la Coca-Cola porque legalmente tiene que ser asi. Pero sin el, no se nota ninguna diferencia en el gusto, que esta dado basicamente por las cantidades diferentes de azucar, azucar quemada, sales, acidos y conservantes.Sabor a que...? ja, ja, ja.Aqui en Bartow, sur de Orlando, hay una empresa quimica que produce aromatizantes y esencias para zumos. Envian diariamente camionadas de sales concentradas y esencias para las fabricas de helados, gaseosas, jugos, enlatados y comida colorida y aromatizada.Cuando visite por primera vez la fabrica, pedi ver el deposito de concentrados de frutas, que deberia ser inmenso, especialmente los de naranja, pina, fresa y tantos otros. El encargado me miro, se rio y me llevo a visitar los depositos inmensos... pero de colorantes y componentes quimicos.Las gaseosa de naranja no contiene naranja.En los zumos dizque de fresa, hasta los puntitos que quedan en suspension estan hechos de goma (una liga quimica que envuelve un semi-polimero).Pina, es un popurri de acidos y goma.La esencia para helado de aguacate usa peroxido de hidrogeno (agua oxigenada) para dar la sensacion espumosa tipica del aguacate.Quieres saber la cantidad de basura que tiene un refresco 'light'? Yo ni siquiera los uso para destapar mi lavaplatos pues temo que danen los tubos de PVC. Los productos endulzantes 'ligth' tienen una vida media muy corta. Por ejemplo el aspartamo , despues de tres semanas mojado, pasa a tener gusto de trapo viejo sucio.Para evitar eso, se agregan una infinidad de otros productos quimicos, uno para alargar la vida del aspartamo, otro para neutralizar el color, otro para mantener el tercer quimico en suspension porque sino el fondo de la gaseosa quedaria oscuro, otro para evitar la cristalizacion del aspartamo, otro para realzar el sabor, dar mas intensidad al acido citrico o fosforito que perderia su sabor por el efecto de los cuatro productos quimicos iniciales... y asi sucesivamente.Un consejo final !!Despues de toda mi experiencia con la produccion de bebidas embasadas, puedo afirmar sin dudar un segundo: la mejor bebida es el agua, como tambien los jugos exprimidos de naranja o limon. Nada mas, cero azucar y cero sal.Publicado por loretahur

MARGARINA o MANTEQUILLA La margarina fue producida originalmente para engordar a los pavos; cuandolo que hizo en realidad fue matarlos.Las personas que habian puesto el dinero para la investigacion quisieronrecobrarlo asi que empezaron a pensar en una forma de hacerlo.Tenian una sustancia blanca, que no tenia ningun atractivo como comestible,asi que le anadieron el color amarillo, para venderselo a lagente en lugar de la mantequilla.Que tal esa?... Ahora han sacado algunos nuevos sabores para vender mas alos incautos como usted y yo.CONOCE USTED la diferencia entre la margarina y la mantequilla?Siga leyendo hasta el final... porque se pone bastante interesante!Comparacion entre mantequilla y margarina:

1.- Ambas tienen la misma cantidad de calorias.

2.- La mantequilla es ligeramente mas alta en grasas saturadas: 8 gramos,comparada con los 5 gramos que tiene la margarina.

3.- Comer margarina en vez de mantequilla puede aumentar en 53% el riesgo deenfermedades coronarias en las mujeres, de acuerdo con un estudiomedico reciente de la Universidad de Harvard.

4.- Comer mantequilla aumenta la absorcion de gran cantidad de nutrientesque se encuentran en otros alimentos.

5.- La mantequilla provee beneficios nutricionales propios mientras lamargarina tiene solo los que le hayan sido anadidos al fabricarla.

6.- La mantequilla sabe mucho mejor que la margarina y mejora el sabor deotros alimentos.7.- La mantequilla ha existido durante siglos mientras que la margarinatiene menos de 100 anos.

Ahora... sobre la margarina:

1.- Es muy alta en acidos grasos trans. (Si, esos que recien ahora loscientificos descubrieron que son malisimos y los gobiernoscomenzaron a prohibirlos) .

2.- Triple riesgo de enfermedades coronarias.

3.- Aumenta el colesterol total y el LDL (el colesterol malo) y disminuye elHDL (el colesterol bueno).

4.- Aumenta en cinco veces el riesgo de cancer.

5.- Disminuye la calidad de la leche materna.

6.- Disminuye la reaccion inmunologica del organismo.

7.- Disminuye la reaccion a la insulina.

Y he aqui el factor mas inquietante (AQUI ESTA LA PARTE MAS INTERESANTE! ):A la margarina le falta UNA MOLECULA para ser PLASTICO...!!Solo este hecho es suficiente para evitar el uso de la margarina de porvida, y de cualquier otra cosa que sea hidrogenada (esto significaque se le anade hidrogeno, lo cual cambia la estructura molecular de lassubstancias).Usted puede ensayar lo siguiente:Compre un poco de margarina y dejela en el garaje o en un sitio sombreado.Dentro de unos dias notara dos cosas:

* No habra moscas; ni siquiera esos molestos bichos se le acercaran (esto yale debe decir a usted algo).

* No se pudre ni huele mal o diferente porque no tiene valor nutritivo; nadacrece en ella. Ni siquiera los diminutos microorganismos puedencrecer en ella.Por que? Porque es casi plastico!!



No a la guerra, Si a la Paz



Misterios de la ciencia...



Los costos de la guerra



medicos y capitalismo...



Capitalismo...



medicos (2)



Quien educa a nuestros hijos?



Los Medios...



Sin Palabras...



Chistes feministas

- Cual es el problema, Eva?

- Se que me has creado, que me has dado este hermoso jardin, todos estos maravillosos animales y esa serpiente con la que me muero de risa... pero no soy del todo feliz...

- Como es eso, Eva? - replico Dios desde las alturas.

- Me encuentro sola, y ademas estoy harta de comer manzanas...

- Bueno Eva, en tal caso, tengo una solucion... creare un hombre para ti.

- Que es un hombre?

- Un hombre sera una criatura imperfecta, con muchas artimanas. Mentira, hara trampas, sera engreido... vamos, que te va a dar problemas... Pero, va a ser mas fuerte y rapido que tu y le gustara cazar y matar cosas... Tendra un aspecto simple, pero como te estas quejando, le creare de tal forma que satisfaga tus... eh... necesidades fisicas... Y tampoco sera muy listo, y destacara en cosas infantiles como pegarse o dar patadas a un balon... Necesitara tu consejo siempre para actuar cuerdamente.

- Suena bien - dijo Eva, mientras levantaba la ceja ironicamente.

- Cual es el truco?.

- Pues... que lo tendras con una condicion.

- Cual?

- Como te decia, sera chulo, arrogante y muy narcisista... asi que le tendras que hacer creer que le hice a el primero... recuerda... es nuestro secreto... de mujer a mujer.





Por que a los hombres no les puede dar la enfermedad de las vacas locas?  Porque todos son unos cerdos

Un dia, en el Paraiso, Eva llamo a Dios: Tengo un problema.- Cual es el problema, Eva?- Se que me has creado, que me has dado este hermoso jardin, todos estos maravillosos animales y esa serpiente con la que me muero de risa... pero no soy del todo feliz... - Como es eso, Eva? - replico Dios desde las alturas.- Me encuentro sola, y ademas estoy harta de comer manzanas...- Bueno Eva, en tal caso, tengo una solucion... creare un hombre para ti.- Que es un hombre?- Un hombre sera una criatura imperfecta, con muchas artimanas. Mentira, hara trampas, sera engreido... vamos, que te va a dar problemas... Pero, va a ser mas fuerte y rapido que tu y le gustara cazar y matar cosas... Tendra un aspecto simple, pero como te estas quejando, le creare de tal forma que satisfaga tus... eh... necesidades fisicas... Y tampoco sera muy listo, y destacara en cosas infantiles como pegarse o dar patadas a un balon... Necesitara tu consejo siempre para actuar cuerdamente.- Suena bien - dijo Eva, mientras levantaba la ceja ironicamente.- Cual es el truco?.- Pues... que lo tendras con una condicion.- Cual?- Como te decia, sera chulo, arrogante y muy narcisista... asi que le tendras que hacer creer que le hice a el primero... recuerda... es nuestro secreto... de mujer a mujer.Por que a los hombres no les puede dar la enfermedad de las vacas locas?  Porque todos son unos cerdos

Ellas...



Ellas (2)...



Tres venganzas femeninas VENGANZA NUMERO 1

Hoy mi hija cumple 21 anos y estoy muy contento porque es el ultimo pago de pension alimenticia que le doy, asi que llame a mi hijita para que viniera a mi casa y cuando llego le dije:

-Hijita, quiero que lleves este cheque a casa de tu mama y que le digas que: Este es el ultimo maldito cheque que va recibir de mi en todo lo que le queda de su puta vida!!! Quiero que me digas la expresion que pone en su rostro.

Asi que mi hija fue a entregar el cheque. Yo estaba ansioso por saber lo que la bruja tenia que decir y que cara pondria.

Cuando mi hijita entro, le pregunte inmediatamente: -Que fue lo que te dijo tu madre?

-Me dijo que justamente estaba esperando este dia para decirte que no eres mi papa!



VENGANZA NUMERO 2

Un hombre que siempre molestaba a su mujer, paso un dia por la casa de unos amigos para que lo acompanaran al aeropuerto a dejar a su esposa que viajaba a Paris.

A la salida de inmigracion, frente a todo el mundo, el le desea buen viaje y en tono burlon le grita:

- Amor, no te olvides de traerme una hermosa francesita Ja ja ja!!

Ella bajo la cabeza y se embarco muy molesta.

La mujer paso quince dias en Francia.

El marido otra vez pidio a sus amigos que lo acompanasen al aeropuerto a recibirla.

Al verla llegar, lo primero que le grita a toda voz es:

- Y amor me trajiste mi francesita??

- Hice todo lo posible, - contesta ella - ahora solo tenemos que rezar para que nazca nina.



VENGANZA NUMERO 3

El marido, en su lecho de muerte, llama a su mujer. Con voz ronca y ya debil, le dice: - Muy bien, llego mi hora, pero antes quiero hacerte una confesion.

- No, no, tranquilo, tu no debes hacer ningun esfuerzo.

- Pero, mujer, es preciso - insiste el marido - Es preciso morir en paz.

Te quiero confesar algo.

- Esta bien, esta bien. Habla!

- He tenido relaciones con tu hermana, tu mama y tu mejor amiga.

- Lo se, lo se Por eso te envenene, hijo de puta!!!



machismo y cibernetica



Chiste machista La NASA ha enviado al espacio una mision experimental tripulada por dos monos y una mujer.Apenas abandona la atmosfera, se establece comunicacion con Houston.

-Atencion, simio 1, verifique sistemas hidraulicos, controle adecuada presion de los propulsores de arranque. A 60.000 pies disminuya un 25% la velocidad.

El simio hace la sena de OK.

-Atencion, simio 2, nivele al cruzar la estratosfera y active sistemas anticongelantes. No olvide monitorear sistemas de comunicacion e indicadores de presion. Comprendido?.

El simio hace la sena de OK.

-Atencion, Houston llamando a mujer: no se olvide.

-Mujer: Si, si, ya se! -interrumpe enojada- que no me olvide darles de comer a estos monos de mierda y que no se me vaya a ocurrir tocar nada!.



.Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti.

Un abogado mantiene un romance con su secretaria.Al poco tiempo, esta queda embarazada y el abogado, que no quiere que su esposa se entere, le da a la secretaria una buena suma de dinero y le pide que se vaya a parir a Italia.Esta pregunta: Y como voy a hacerte saber cuando nazca el bebe ? El abogado responde: Para que mi mujer no se entere, tan solo enviame una postal y escribe por detras: Spaghetti. Y no te preocupes mas, que yo me encargare de todos los gastos.

Pasan los meses y una manana la esposa del abogado lo llama al bufete, algo exaltada: Querido, acabo de recibir el correo y hay una postal muy extrana viene desde Italia. La verdad, no entiendo que significa.El abogado, tratando de ocultar sus nervios, contesta:Espera a que llegue a casa, a ver si yo entiendoCuando el hombre llega a casa y lee la postal, cae al suelo fulminado por un infarto.Llega una ambulancia y se lo lleva. Ya en el hospital, el jefe de cardiologia se queda consolando a la esposa y le pregunta cual ha sido el evento que precipito tan masivo ataque cardiaco.

Entonces la esposa saca la postal y se la muestra diciendole: No me explico, doctor; el solamente leyo esta postal. Vea usted mismo lo que trae escrito.Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti, Spaghetti."Tres con salchicha y albondigas y dos con almejas



Gol !!!!



Chistes de Borrachos Entra un borracho a su casa todo manchado con lapiz labial por todos lados hecho un desastre, y la mujer le pregunta:-Hombre que te paso?Y el borracho le responde:-No me vas a creer, me pelee con un payaso!



Este es un borracho que entra en un bar y le dice al camarero:-Me da cinco copas de whisky?Al rato:-Me da cuatro?Al rato:-Me da tres copas?Despues:-Me da dos copas?Luego le dice:-Me da una copa?Y le dice al camarero:-Ves? Cuanto menos bebo, mas borracho estoy!

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A humanitarian crisis unlike any weve seen in decades is unfolding in Yemen. And its being caused by an ally of the U.S.

The assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi has shone a spotlight on the brutality of the Saudi regime. In particular, it has caused people to revisit their high opinion of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, also known as MbS.

But as bad as the assassination of Khashoggi was, theres a much greater reason for the world, and especially the United States, to rethink its relationship with the House of Saud: Im talking specifically about eight million Yemenis who are waiting to perish from starvation or some less-humane fate.

In 2015, Saudi Arabia intervened in what, until then, had been your standard-issue civil war.

What drove the Saudis was the role of the Houthis, a group MbS and others viewed as an Iranian proxy. As my friend Roberto Rivera pointed out a year ago, reality isnt that tidy. While most Houthis are Shia Muslims like the Iranians, not all Houthis are.

But even if their ties with Iran were as close as the Saudis believe, it wouldnt come close to justifying what is being done to the people of Yemen. Since 2015, the Saudis and their allies have bombarded Yemens cities, blockaded Yemens ports, and prevented humanitarian aid from reaching millions in need.

Their targets have included schools, hospitals, homes, markets, factories, roads, farms, and even historical sites. As a result, tens of thousands of civilians, including thousands of children, have been killed or maimed by Saudi airstrikes.

Thats the red horse. The pale horse is cholera, which has infected an estimated 1.2 million and killed more than 2,500.

Then theres the black horse, famine. As I said at the top, eight million Yemenis are at risk for starvation. As the Financial Times put it a year ago, without a change of heart [on the Saudis part], Yemenis will starve on a scale the 21st century has yet to see.

As Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen and philosopher John Gray have argued, famine in the modern world is inextricably tied to politics. Its not a lack of food. According to a 2017 Johns Hopkins study, the amount of food Americans waste every year alone could easily feed 250 million people.

What turns a bad harvest into a humanitarian catastrophe is the actions of governmentswhen hunger is deployed as a weapon of war, as in the Soviet Union in the 1930s and in Ethiopia in the 1980s.

And in Yemen today.

Making matters worse is American complicity in the suffering of the Yemeni people. The United States has supported the Saudi-led coalition with intelligence sharing, logistical support, and facilitating billions of dollars in arms sales, including a laser-guided bomb that killed forty children on a school bus in August.

While the administration announced it would no longer provide in-flight air refueling, this will likely have little impact on Saudi capabilities, according to the Military Times.

So what can the average American Christian do? A lot, actually. First, we pray for those who are suffering. Then we can demand that our government lean on the Saudis, who need the U.S. more than we need them, to allow relief supplies to enter the country without impediment. And we can support efforts in Congress to pull the plug on fueling the Saudis war against Yemeni civilians.

Resources

How The U.S. Fueled The Saudi War In Yemen [Infographic], Niall McCarthy | Forbes.com | November 21, 2018

Rebuking Trump, senators back effort to suspend U.S. support for Saudi-led war in Yemen, Karoun Demirjian, Carol Morello, John Hudson, Washington Post, November 28, 2018

Originally posted at Breakpoint.Archbishop of Canterbury says plight of Christians in Middle East is 'acute'

The Archbishop of Canterbury has warned of the severity of the situation facing Christians in the Middle East ahead of a special service organised by the Prince of Wales.

The service at Westminster Abbey on Tuesday is taking place to encourage persecuted Christians in the Middle East and celebrate the contributions they make to their communities.

Speaking on the Andrew Marr Show, Archbishop Justin Welby said Prince Charles had 'long been committed to the support of Christians in the Middle East'.

The Archbishop said that although Christians in some parts of the region were flourishing, the situation for others was 'acute'.

In Iraq, he said the Christian population had dropped from 10 per cent to around two or three per cent in recent years.

'The plight of Christians there has become more and more acute as the years have gone by,' he said.

'They have vanished in some areas. They've been driven out or they've been killed.

'So it seems a good time as we approach Christmas, this season of Advent, where we're focused on the Middle East, on Bethlehem, to talk about the reality of the situation today.'

Writing in The Telegraph on Sunday, the Archbishop spoke again about the hardships being experienced by Middle Eastern Christians.

'They need to know they are not forgotten by the world, or treated as an irrelevant minority, a societal optional extra, or even a threat,' he said.

Christians in Iraq have suffered from years of war and conflict, and most recently the Islamic State's assault on the country. Many have fled abroad but although some have returned, fears remain.

Muthanna Yaco, who works in real estate in the northern Iraqi city of Qaraqosh, told Aid to the Church in Need that although around 5,000 families have returned, the exodus has not stopped.

'It is also important to put a halt to the emigration of Christians, which is emptying the Middle East of Christians,' he said.

'We must stop emigration and arrange for the return of Christians in the diaspora.

'That is an essential condition for peace-building and our country's success in the long run.'

He said those who had returned were fearful of discrimination and the return of ISIS.

'There is fear that the ISIS will return to our region, perhaps under a different name,' he said.

'That's because of the lack of political unity in Iraq, and Christians have no confidence in their country's political leadership, with legislators looking out for their own interests and discriminating against Christians.

'These conditions may put us in harm's way again.'Christians tell world leaders to step up climate change action

Over 5,000 people, including 56 Christian leaders, have signed an open letter urging world governments to step up their commitment to tackling climate change.

World leaders are meeting at the UN's COP24 summit in Katowice, Poland, this week to work out the rules and guidelines that will implement the Paris Agreement on climate change reached in 2015.

In an open letter by the Renew Our World campaign, Christian leaders said nations needed to ramp up legally binding and timebound climate commitments as well as implement 'strong' national policies to limit global temperature rises to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

They also challenged wealthy nations to deliver on their 2009 promise to provide $100bn in assistance to poorer nations already experiencing the effects of climate change.

They said the money was needed to help communities transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, and develop more sustainable and low-emission agriculture that is more resilient to the floods and droughts caused by climate change.

The letter reads: 'Climate change is having devastating impacts across the world right now. Rainfall is less reliable, and there are more droughts and more floods.

'That means for some there is no food to eat, homes are being washed away and communities are being completely destroyed, never to be rebuilt again. The poor are being trapped in intergenerational poverty.

'Christians across the world are responding to this urgent issue. From communities already being hit by the changing climate to those who have contributed most to the problem, we are taking action together.'

It adds: 'This is the greatest challenge of our generation. Every fraction of a degree of warming is going to matter.'

Signatories of the letter include Tim Adams, Associate Director of IFES; Christine MacMillan, Senior Advisor at the World Evangelical Alliance; Eva Morales, President of the Latin American Theological Fellowship; and Paul Harcourt, National Leader of New Wine.

Renew Our World campaign partner Tearfund is also supporting the letter. Its Director of Advocacy, Ruth Valerio said there was a 'huge gap' between where countries currently are and where they need to be in their climate commitment if the goal of 1.5 degrees Celsius is to be reached.

'Time is of the essence, it's vital we step up our efforts to tackle climate change,' she said.

'Here at Tearfund we see the devastating daily impact that climate change has on the most vulnerable and poorest people in the world, for many they end up being pushed deeper into poverty.'Pope: Gay priests should be celibate or leave

Men with deep-rooted homosexual tendencies should not be admitted to the Catholic clergy, and it would be better for priests who are actively gay to leave rather than lead a double life, Pope Francis says in a new book.

While he has previously spoken of the need for better screening of candidates for the religious life, his comments suggesting that priests who cannot keep their vows of celibacy should leave are some of his clearest to date.

Francis made the comments in a book-length interview with Spanish priest Fernando Prado called "The Strength of Vocation", in which he discusses the challenges of being a priest or nun today.

Francis said in the book that homosexuality in the Church "is something that worries me". It is due to be published this week in several languages. An advance copy of the Italian version was made available to Reuters.

"The question of homosexuality is a very serious one," he said, adding that those entrusted with training men to be priests must be certain that candidates are "humanly and emotionally mature" before they can be ordained.

This also applied to women who wanted to enter female religious communities to become nuns. In the Catholic Church, priests, nuns and monks all take vows of celibacy.

The Church teaches that homosexual tendencies are not sinful in themselves, but homosexual acts are.

Francis said there was "no room for this" in the lives of priests and nuns, adding that the Church had to be "demanding" in choosing candidates for what is known as the consecrated life.

"For this reason, the Church urges that persons with this rooted tendency not be accepted into (priestly) ministry or consecrated life," he said.

"BETTER TO LEAVE"

He urged homosexuals who are already priests or nuns to be celibate and responsible to avoid creating scandal. "It is better that they leave the priesthood or the consecrated life rather than live a double life," he said.

The interview was conducted in mid-August. Less than two weeks later, on Aug. 26, Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, the Vatican's former ambassador to the Vatican, threw the Church into turmoil with a bombshell statement against the pope and Vatican officials.

Vigano said a "homosexual network" existed in the Vatican, whose members helped promote each other's careers in the Church.

He also accused the pope of having ignored alleged sexual misconduct with adult male seminarians by former American cardinal Theodore McCarrick, 88.

The Vatican said Vigano's accusations were riddled with "calumny and defamation".

The Catholic Church has been haunted for more than two decades by evidence of thousands of cases of sexual abuse of minors by clergy around the world, in countries ranging from the United States to Australia, Ireland, Belgium, Germany and Chile.

In July, McCarrick became the first cardinal to resign in nearly 100 years after U.S. Church officials said allegations made in a separate investigation that he had sexually abused a 16-year-old boy almost 50 years ago were credible and substantiated.

McCarrick has said he had no recollection of the alleged abuse of the minor, but has not commented on the allegations of misconduct with the seminarians, which allegedly took place decades ago.The next time you're lining up for a plate of 18-hour slow-smoked brisket, be grateful that you don't need a plan ride to stand in that line.

Some less fortunate European beef lovers lament that they don't always have access to the fatty barbecue beef that's a staple in Texas.Maggie Gordon/Houston Chronicle

The folks over at Saint Arnold brewery released a new imperial coffee porter Monday, just in time for the holidays.

"It goes in line with creating a celebratory beer," said Aaron Inkrott, brewing operations manager at Saint Arnold. "It's a big, full-bodied imperial porter."The Webb County District Attorney's Office is preparing to present their case before a grand jury Wednesday to request formal charges against the Border Patrol agent accused of fatally shooting four women and kidnapping another.

State law requires that a person who is in jail pending trial of a felony must be released either on a personal bond or by reducing the amount of bail required if the prosecution is not ready for trial within 90 days from the initial arrest. The agent, Juan David Ortiz, 35, has been behind bars since his arrest on Sept. 15, held on a $2.5 million bond. Wednesday will mark his 80th day in jail.

READ MORE: Laredo Border Patrol agent charged as 'serial killer,' accused of killing four

After a bond reduction hearing for Ortiz held in October, District Attorney Isidro Alaniz said his office planned to formally charge Ortiz by Dec. 5. He said he and his office were preparing the case but still needed to wait for all the evidence to come forward before deciding if it merited the death penalty.

"(Right now) we are at felony one," Alaniz said in October. "As we get closer to December, once we have all of the factors, the history of the defendant, the seriousness of the crime, the scheme of all of these things, we need to see if we do in fact meet the elements to go forward on capital murder."

It remains unclear if the District Attorney's Office will be seeking the death penalty.

Alaniz said Friday through his spokesperson that "the evidence has not been received and that we will be reviewing the evidence with the law enforcement agencies next week."

A murder charge is elevated to a capital offense when a homicide occurs under specific circumstances.

State law says that among the ways a capital murder charge can be filed is if a person commits multiple murders during different criminal episodes but they are committed in the same style or pattern.

Ortiz is accused of killing Melissa Ramirez, 29, on Sept. 3, Claudine Ann Luera, 42, on Sept. 6, and Guiselda Alicia Hernandez, 35, and Nikki Enriquez, 28, both around Sept. 14. All four were killed in roughly the same area near North U.S. 83 and I-35 in the northwest part of Webb County. All four were shot in the head.

Erika Pena is the fifth victim who escaped from Ortiz's vehicle and helped law enforcement find him.

Alaniz said all the victims were sex workers.

"If it's something that I decide that this type of case merits, capital murder or capital life, then we will make that decision, but (the date is) coming pretty quickly," Alaniz said in October. "We keep working with law enforcement, federal, state and local, to get our evidence together and we'll be ready to go Dec. 5."

Ortiz was charged with four counts of murder, unlawful restraint and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

If prosecutors do not seek the death penalty, Ortiz could face life in prison without parole if convicted of capital murder.

READ MORE: Laredo police asking public's help in locating wanted individuals on variety of charges

According to affidavits released by law enforcement, the first victim was Ramirez, a mother of two. Her body was found Sept. 4 in the 300 block of Jefferies Road near the intersection of Texas 255, also known as Camino Colombia Road. An affidavit states that Ortiz said he killed her Sept. 3.

The second victim was Luera, a mother of five. She was found barely alive at about 7 a.m. Sept. 6 near mile marker 436 of Texas 255, about a half-mile east of U.S. 83. She died at a hospital later that day.

Ortiz told law enforcement that he picked up Pena on Sept. 14, according to the arrest affidavits.

When they stopped at a gas station, she began talking about Ramirez, the criminal complaint states. Ortiz told investigators that he pulled out a pistol and pointed it at her. They struggled inside his truck and she ran out, making it to another gas station where she found a Department of Public Safety trooper and asked for help, according to the affidavit.

In the five hours between Pena's escape and Ortiz's arrest, he confessed to killing two more victims, the affidavit states.

Ortiz picked up Hernandez on San Bernardo Avenue, drove out of the city limits and told her to get out of the car at the Webb County Interchange overpass, at mile marker 20 on I-35, according to the document. He shot her multiple times in the head and left her body there, the affidavit states.

Ortiz then picked up Enriquez, a transgender woman, also on San Bernardo Avenue, and again left the city limits, stopping near mile marker 15 on I-35. The affidavit states that he shot Enriquez once in the back of her head and left her body behind the gravel pits at the mile marker.

Hernandez's body was found Friday night; the body of Enriquez was found after Ortiz told officers where to look, the affidavit states.

Authorities said Ortiz was off-duty when he killed the women but that he may have used his service weapon in the homicides.

During a news conference on Sept. 17, Carla L. Provost, U.S. Border Patrol chief, said the killings were committed by just one "rogue individual" in her agency.

"I'm here to support my men and women, on whom it obviously has had an extreme impact. I'm sickened and saddened by the events that occurred," she said.

In a statement, Andrew Meehan, assistant commissioner for public affairs for U.S. Customs and Border Protection, said his agency's Office of Professional Responsibility, the U.S. Border Patrol and the Department of Homeland Security Office of the Inspector General are fully cooperating with all investigators.

"Our sincerest condolences go out to the victims' family and friends. While it is CBP policy to not comment on the details of an ongoing investigation, criminal action by our employees is not, and will not be tolerated," Meehan said.

The slayings and arrest of Ortiz rocked the Laredo community this half of the year. The news made national headlines, with reporters from numerous media outlets descending on the Gateway City.

One of the first capital murder cases this decade in Webb County occurred in 2012 when Demond Bluntson killed his ex-girlfriend's two children in a hotel room. In 2016, jurors sentenced him to death. That marked the first time in 25 years that a jury in Webb County had sentenced someone to death row.

Ortiz is the second Border Patrol agent in Laredo to be arrested on murder charges this year.

READ MORE: Woman held key against person's neck, threatened to cut cop's head off, according to LPD

On April 9, suspended Border Patrol Agent Ronald Anthony Burgos-Aviles was accused of fatally stabbing his alleged 27-year-old lover, Grizelda Hernandez, and their 20-month-old son, Dominic Alexander Hernandez. He was indicted on two counts of capital murder June 27.

He was denied bond and remains at the Webb County Jail until the outcome of his case is decided by a jury. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.Burger lovers rejoice; Hopdoddy Burger Bar will open its fifth Houston area location in Clear Lake this December.

Clear Lake residents can expect to find all of the favorite burger creations at the new location off Bay Area Boulevard when it officially opens Dec. 17, as well as a few vegetarian options new to the menu.

The Clear Lake location will boast a monthly rotating "Brew Series" where different featured burgers will be paired with a local craft beer, according to a press release from the restaurant. Houston area breweries like St. Arnold's Brewing Co., SpindleTap Brewery and No Label Brewing Co. will all be available at the restaurant, as well as some domestic beers.

SEE WHAT'S COMING: The most exciting developments coming to Houston's suburbs in 2019

The Austin-based burger chain has four other Houston locations - in Rice Village, River Oaks, Vintage Park and City Centre. According to the release, the chain has been named one of the "The Best Burgers in America" by Food & Wine, and "The 50 best burger joints in America" by Business Insider.

The Clear Lake Hopdoddy will open at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 17 at 820 W Bay Area Boulevard, Suite 700, Webster.

Click through the photos above for the best burgers in Houston, according to readers...

Rebecca Hennes covers community news. Read her on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, houstonchronicle.com. | rebecca.hennes@chron.com | Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message

Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush is encouraging Texans to give the gift of Texas history from the Texas General Land Office archives. Historic map reproductions from the GLO are the perfect gift for friends and family that are proud of their Texas heritage and want to support the conservation of Texas history for future generations.

With more than 45,000 maps to choose from, there is a map perfect for any person who takes pride in our great state. Historic map reproductions are priced from $20-$40.Oil surged the most in more than five months as Saudi Arabia and Russia extended a cooperation pact and U.S.-China trade tensions cooled. Unprecedented supply cuts in Canada also drove prices higher.

Futures in New York advanced 4 percent Monday, bouncing back from the worst monthly loss in a decade. Although Russia and Saudi Arabia have yet to confirm any fresh cuts, their agreement opened the door for a deal when OPEC and allied producers meet this week in Vienna.

Crude prices plunged over the past two months on fears of a global oversupply. This weekend's agreement between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Russian President Vladimir Putin buoyed those hoping for an output cut enough to shrug off more ambiguous signs on Monday, including Qatar's announcement that it would quit OPEC.

"There's going to be a cut, I think it's going to be more than people expected, and I think the market realized that today," said Bob Iaccino, chief market strategist at Chicago-based Path Trading Partners.

OPEC: Qatar will pull out of OPEC amid tension with Saudi Arabia

For a time, oil pared gains on Monday after an OPEC advisory panel was said to make no recommendation for action and people familiar with negotiations said Russia and the Saudis still haven't agreed on details of a cut. Iranian OPEC Governor Hossein Kazempour Ardebili, meanwhile, raised doubts about whether producers can reach unanimity in Vienna.

Over the weekend, U.S. President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping called a pause in their trade dispute after a dinner at the G-20 event. Alberta Premier Rachel Notley followed on Sunday by announcing the Canadian province would order local producers to curb production by 325,000 barrels a day starting next month.

"These are the positive pronouncements that the markets have been waiting for," said Ashley Petersen, an oil analyst at Stratas Advisors LLC in New York. "Now that we're here, we should see a big price correction going through the end of this week. The big question is, will OPEC follow through?"

RELATED: Putin says Russia, Saudi Arabia will extend OPEC+ Oil pact

West Texas Intermediate for January delivery climbed $2.02 to close at $52.95 on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

Brent for February settlement rose 3.8 percent to $61.69 on London's ICE Futures Europe exchange, and was at an $8.82 premium to WTI for the same month.

With the flurry of bullish news, traders largely discounted Qatar's surprise announcement that it will leave the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries to focus on natural gas. Accounting for less than 2 percent of the cartel's output, the exit will have less of an impact on global supplies but could impact OPEC's cohesion, Petersen said.

--With assistance from Jessica Summers, Dan Murtaugh and Alex Longley.





2018 Bloomberg L.P.Russia and Saudi Arabia agreed to extend into 2019 their deal to manage the oil market, known as OPEC+, although Moscow and Riyadh have yet to confirm any fresh output cuts. Futures surged.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the extension after a meeting Saturday on the sidelines of the Group of 20 with Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The comments open the door for a deal at the OPEC meeting next week in Vienna. OPEC delegates said the leaders have given their political blessing for an agreement, but plenty of work is left, including on the size of any potential output cut.

There is no final decision on volumes, but together with Saudi Arabia we will do it, Putin told reporters about extending the agreement in Buenos Aires. And whatever number there will be based on this joint decision, we agreed that we will monitor the market situation and react to it quickly.

RUPTURE: Qatar will pull out of OPEC amid tension with Saudi Arabia

Oil prices in London and New York jumped more than 4 percent on Monday as the pact raised speculation OPEC and its allies will agree to cuts when they meet in Vienna. A decision by Canadas province of Alberta to curtail production gave a further boost to futures.

On Sunday, OPECs president, U.A.E. Energy Minister Suhail Al Mazrouei, said he was optimistic OPEC+ will reach an agreement over a reduction in production for 2019 when they meet. Technical teams are working on the level of the cuts necessary and the reference baseline for the reduction, he said.

I am optimistic that we will reach a good solution and a good agreement to adjust production downward, to cut production, to ensure that we keep the market stability and keep the OPEC and non-OPEC together as well, Al Mazrouei said on his arrival in the Austrian capital.

OPEC MEETING: Why Houston should care about Vienna

Saudi Arabia said through its state-owned press agency that Riyadh and Moscow had held talks in Buenos Aires about rebalancing the oil market. While both talked about progress and extension of the cooperation, neither the Russians nor Saudis made any formal declaration about output volumes.

This might be the critical breakthrough for OPEC and non-OPEC to cut, said Derek Brower, a director at consultant RS Energy Group. But the details are now what matter -- how much will be cut, from when, for how long and, crucially, from what baselines.

The unity Putin and the Saudi crown prince showed at the G-20 meeting amid all the controversies shifted the momentum in favor of a new agreement, said Ildar Davletshin, an oil and gas analyst at Wood & Co. Financial Services AS.

Their personal ties strengthened the probability of a new output-cut deal, he said. Russia now will most likely agree to a cut of 200,000+ barrels per day from a relatively recent baseline, probably levels reached in the last couple of months. Its unclear, though, how fast Russian producers may be willing to deliver the cuts, he added.

Earlier this week, an advisory group to OPEC told ministers the market is oversupplied, with a need to cut about 1.3 million barrels a day from October levels. The advisory groups proposals arent binding, and OPEC ministers often choose a different path. Yet the view that the oil market is oversupplied is a signal the cartel is laying the groundwork for action.

OPEC, which pumps four-in-10 barrels produced worldwide, will convene in Vienna on Dec. 6 to discuss output cuts after oil prices in November suffered the largest monthly drop since the global financial crisis in 2008.

CLIMATE ACCORD: Will leaders follow through on Paris commitment at COP 24?

Brent crude, the global benchmark, is down about a third from an October high due to rising supply from the U.S. shale regions, Saudi Arabia and Russia, slower demand growth and American waivers on oil sanctions on Iran. Brent hit a a four-year high of $86.76 a barrel in early October before slumping to $58.71 on Friday.

Brent jumped as much as 4.6 percent on Monday in London, hitting $62.20 a barrel on the ICE Futures Europe exchange. Oil trading has been volatile over the last week as traders took positions ahead of the OPEC gathering.

Markets think there will be some sort of a cut, said Mike Wittner, head of oil market research at Societe Generale SA. However, theres concern that the cuts will not be big enough and also that the message may be intentionally unclear, in order not to get President Trump upset.

In public and private, Trump has told the Saudis he wants cheaper crude, even disclosing that he berated the crown prince in an October phone call when international benchmark Brent surged above $80. Prior to the collapse in oil prices, the kingdom was responsive to Trumps demands. Its November production surged to an all-time record above 11 million barrels a day as prices swooned, prompting a jubilant response on Twitter from the White House.

Frances President Emmanuel Macron, who has faced intense protests against growing gasoline prices in his country, also called for cheaper oil at the G-20 summit.

For Prince Mohammed, the kingdoms day-to-day ruler, the dilemma between keeping the U.S. president happy and having an oil price that balances the Saudi budget has been sharpened by the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Despite pressure from angry senators and other Washington power players, the Trump administration has maintained its support for the Saudi leader.

Putin and the prince ended years of animosity between the worlds two largest oil exporters in 2016 and have worked together since then in a deal known as the OPEC+ group, that includes the cartel plus non-OPEC members such as Russia, Mexico, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan.

--With assistance from Grant Smith and Dina Khrennikova.

2018 Bloomberg L.P.MANDEL NGAN, Contributor / AFP/Getty Images

President Trump's ongoing political pressure on Saudi Arabia and other foreign nations to keep oil prices low is harming the U.S. energy sector and the Texas economy, according to a new report by the Morningstar investment firm.

Oil prices have cratered since early October because of soaring output from the world's top producers, especially the U.S., but Trump has argued in favor of keeping oil prices low in order to generate cheaper gasoline costs. He's said that the Saudis, other OPEC nations and Russia should resist cutting production - as they're discussing - to push crude oil prices lower.Fort Bend County commissioners have approved a resolution aimed at maintaining the county's high rate of saving shelter animals from euthanization.

For the last two years and every month so far in 2018, the county's animal service agency has kept a 90 percent save rate for dogs. Since August, the agency has also maintained a greater than 90 percent save rate for both dogs and cats, according to the resolution. The court said it will continue to provide budgetary, policy and advocacy resources to maintain the so called "no-kill" policy.

"I am very pleased that the court voted unanimously to sustain the No-Kill status that we've worked so hard to attain," County Judge Bob Hebert said in a written statement Monday. "With the shelter expansion scheduled to complete in February, we should easily be able to continue to save over 90 percent of those companion animals we receive."

The resolution, adopted during the Nov. 27 commissioners court meeting, lays out how commissioners have worked toward establishing this policy. Over the past eight years, they've taken steps like expanding their shelter facility; adding adoption, rescue and foster programs; and partnering with other organizations to help find homes for animals.

Rene Vasquez, director of Fort Bend County Animal Services, said he has seen the shelter transform in recent years bcause of the changes/

"I look at it as night and day," said Vasquez, who started working at the shelter more than 20 years ago. "I'm proud of where the shelter is. I love that we are able to save so many more animals."

In 2017, the Best Friends Animal Society provided several recommendations to the county on how the animal shelter could achieve no-kill status. These included implementing trap-neuter-return and shelter-neuter-return programs, which have since been established. Fort Bend PAWS, a nonprofit, was also created to help with efforts at the animal shelter.

County Commissioner Vincent Morales, who is president of shelter, said he is "passionate" about helping the nonprofit save animals. He himself has two rescue dogs.

"We have rescued other dogs on the side of the road in the past," he said. "It really was natural for me to want to be involved."

Claudine Vass, director of the nonprofit Fort Bend Pets Alive!, said she was pleased with the news of the resolution but acknowledged there remains work to do in the county.

"There are communities that are saving about 95 percent," Vass said. "I want the public to understand that 'no-kill' is not just about the numbers. It's about treating each animal as individual. It's about the kind of humane treatment we give them, each of them."

She pointed to the city of Austin as a model for Fort Bend County. Houston's Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care announced last year that it had momentarily achieved so-called "no-kill" status, but recent data from October show the total live release rate at 82 percent.

Fort Bend's announcement on Monday came amid controversies at other Houston-area animal shelters. A criminal investigation was opened in August at the Montgomery County Animal Shelter after 78 dogs and cats were euthanized.

The Missouri City Animal Shelter also faced issues after an animal shelter volunteer used derogatory language with an animal control officer and after prescription medications were found at the facility last December. Since that incident, city officials hired a shelter manager and announced plans to expand the budget for the shelter.

Vass said she think it's going to take more than a resolution for the county to maintain its high rate of animals that have been saved, including active support from community members and leaders with a vested interest.

"No kill is about working with the community and changing the mindset," Vass said. "No one entity can do it all. It requires a phenomenal amount of community support."

brooke.lewis@chron.comNicholas and Nici Jessett enjoyed their visits to distilleries in Knoxville and Gatlinburg which started them thinking that theyd love to bring that experience to Katy.

Envisioning a family place where people could share drinks and play games, they decided to go ahead and try it, said Nici Jessett. Its been a two-year process for the couple, both of whom are employed full-time in the world of business.

As of Oct. 6, the couple began to share their Tennessee experiences locally with the opening of MKT Distillery LLC in the rice dryers in Katy. MKT Distillery offers whiskey, moonshine and vodka. With a nod to their surroundings and the history of the city, they use locally grown rice in every product they make.

What makes us different is our atmosphere, said Nicholas Jessett. The courtyard between the rice silos creates an ambiance for the distillery. It sets us apart from other distilleries. Other nearby distilleries include Shire Distilling Co. in Brookshire and Toddy Blends Winery & Distillery on Franz Road between N. Fry Road and N. Westgreen Boulevard.

In order to obtain a federal permit, they had to have a space for their distillery, Nici Jessett said. So, they rented room under the American Rice Growers dryers built in 1947. Its at the east end of First Street. The address is 5373 1st St.

Obtaining the federal permit took about six months, they then needed approval from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, which took longer. Besides time, the permitting process took money. They started a Kickstarter campaign to help.

Their tasting room is open noon to 10 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays. Since their opening, theyve made adjustments as they take feedback from customers on what they like and dont like. Visitors can now watch TV while they try the local liquors. Tables, lights and heaters create a homey atmosphere. A food truck is parked nearby for those who want something to eat. More activities for children are in the plans.

Were learning every week, she said. Were a work in progress. We want to be part of the Katy community.

Nicholas said that will include hosting an April 27 car show to benefit Joe Joe Bear Foundation (https://www.joejoebear.org/). Were looking for additional things to do, he added.

That emphasis on the local community also means that all materials used come from the Katy area and when thats not possible, from Texas, said Nici Jessett. For example, they bought furniture for their business from Republic Creations, a Katy-based company.

Their Engineers Texas corn whiskey is among their most popular products. Their vodka is the result of popular demand. Thats what people said they wanted, said Nicholas . Theyd like to expand to include gin, flavored moonshine and absinthe. The distillery also markets its own brand of T-shirts and shot glasses.

Their goal is to expand their customer base and eventually have MKT Distillery products sold in retail stores.

Nicholas is chief executive officer of MKT Distillery and she is the chief operating officer, but the titles are misleading. Nici said shes cooking and mashing all the time; the distillery has a 55-gallon still. In addition to distilling and proofing, she also handles bottling. Both she and her husband have tended bar as well as a brother-in-law. Her husband also conducts tours of the facility and is a four-year partner in a company that helps brand breweries, distilleries and wineries.

Apart from the distillery, Nicholas Jessett, who has more than 24 years in management, is a consulting engineer and has worked for companies such as BP, Shell and Halliburton. Nici Jessett is an executive assistant for a manufacturing company. I have a very demanding job, she said. Add to that the work involved in opening a distillery, and Nici Jessett added, I have not slept much.

The family includes a 12-year-old son, Sebastian, and two stepchildren, Alex and CJ, both in their 20s. She grew up in Katy and then moved away. After Nici and Nicholas got married in 2012, they returned to Katy.With the prospect of Bunker Hill Village losing fire and emergency medical services through the Village Fire Department on Jan. 1, 2020, some concerned residents are working to better inform others about the issue.

Bunker Hill resident Pamela Kersey learned about the situation from someone in Hedwig Village and previously had no idea about the conflict going on between Bunker Hill and the five other Memorial Villages that VFD serves.

I started asking around and realized no one knew what BHV leadership had done and the consequences of their actions to the residents of the six Villages, Kersey said. The more elected officials and fire personnel I spoke to, the more concerned I became, and I started sounding the alarms.

Recently, she has been sending out emails to other residents letting them know about developments. She said 200 to 300 people are now receiving them, with the numbers growing as more people hear about them and want to learn more.

The VFD conflict started in August when Bunker Hill leadership wanted to improve emergency response times to its city by building a second fire station within the citys boundaries.

Each of the Memorial Villages was required under the VFD interlocal agreement to approve the VFD 2019 budget by Sept. 30, but Bunker Hill opted to only approve the operating funds, voting down funds for capital improvements to the fire station, effectively leaving the department, according to the commission (which is a point that Bunker Hill contests).

Bunker Hill has given the commission notice that it wants to continue services with VFD through December 2019 and has been working on plans for alternative services while also trying to restore the relationship with the other Villages and get back in good terms with the department.

Kersey said she has spent more than 100 hours on the issue, speaking with officials, committee chairs and personnel; listening to city council and commissioner meetings; and contacting regulatory and insurance companies and real estate agents to find out how the fire department issue would impact residents.

She said to her, Bunker Hill leadership has not been forthcoming enough about its plans.

I am shocked that BHV is trying to keep the actions that they have taken private and how they keep rewording information to make it seem that the VFD is not doing a great job, Kersey said. Residents deserved to be notified and have their voices heard over this issue as it effects the quality of life we live in the Villages, and if the mayor of BHV will not notify the residents, I will.

Derry Essary serves as Bunker Hills fire commissioner and responded that his citys leadership has been openly talking about its concerns for months.

Bunker Hill Village is not trying to keep this issue a secret, he said. There have been articles in the Memorial Examiner, open discussions in the city council meetings over the past five months and at least three major presentations at council meeting concerning the issue.

To Essary, the problem comes down to geography. He cited that VFD covers 9.5 square miles even though, he said, national standards recommend an area of 4.5 square miles. He suggests adding a second station to the southern and western parts of the coverage area is the solution.

We are concerned that the same superior service provided to all of the villages by the VFD is available to the citizens of Bunker Hill Village in a timely manner, he said.

Jeffrey Halper lives in Bunker Hill and also learned about what was going on through someone in Hedwig Village. Since then, he has attended about four meetings, including the latest fire commissioner meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 28, where he said about 20 Memorial Villages residents joined him.

Upset at what he calls Bunker Hill leaderships attempts to strong-arm the other Villages, Halper said the road for Bunker Hill back into VFD may be a tough one.

The frustration level is palpable. And I just dont see a path forward unless we go to the commission and say, Look, lets just forget about all that stuff and let us back in. Maybe we can get back in, Halper said. Thats what I think. Or we agree to pay for the equipment that we want because this has been going on for three years now and at the meeting last night, they went into great detail about how little Bunker Hill has presented to them in the year past.

Kersey said she hopes the relationship can be restored between Bunker Hill Village and the five other Villages and worries about the costs involved with finding EMS through a private ambulance service and fire suppression services through the Houston Fire Department.

Bunker Hill Villages cost to have VFD is $1.2 million per year. I do not believe the leadership of BHV can provide the same level of fire and EMS for that price, she said.

The next Village Fire Commission meeting is at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 19, at the Village Fire Department at 901 Corbindale Road. If you are interested in receiving Pamela Kerseys update emails, contact her at pskersey318@gmail.com.

tracy.maness@hcnonline.comrPrivate school students from around Houston will pay tribute and remember the legacy of President George H.W. Bush this week at The George and Barbara Bush Center for Scholars and Leaders.

President George H.W. Bush died Friday, Nov. 30, at his home in Houston. The remembrance will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5, at the center at Houston Christian High School, 2700 W. Sam Houston Parkway South.A Katy business owner said he thinks the burglar who robbed his co-owned JINYA Ramen bar near Mason Road last Friday could be connected to a string of other crimes across Houston.

On Nov. 30, the suspect broke into the JINYA Ramen Bar, located at 21788 Katy Freeway Ste. 100, and stole the restaurant's safe. Although he covered his face with a T-shirt, the suspect is seen on surveillance video allegedly using a glass shattering device to break through a door window and enter the store.

"He basically punches a hole into the glass and just punched it in," JINYA Ramen Bar co-owner Keith Huang said. "Then he went straight into the back office, lifted the safe and carried it out to his Tahoe."

Huang said he believes the Chevy Tahoe seen in his store's surveillance video is the same one seen in multiple other burglaries caught on surveillance video in the Heights and Memorial areas.

ALVIN: 15-year-old girl escapes abduction attempt on nightly jog

"Their [Fadi's at Memorial] footage looked like the same guy, same build, I can't confirm for sure if it was him but it looks like him," Huang said. "The idea of bolting [the safe] to the floor or to have a secured door lock on the office door wasn't going to stop this guy. He knew what he was doing. As a one person operation he was pretty efficient, I will say that."

Huang said he estimates the burglar got away with about a few thousand in cash. A police report was filed after the incident, but Huang said this is not the first time his business was targeted.

"We got hit by a potential burglar before we even did the grand opening," Huang said. "It's just unfortunate...it's bad luck."

Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to contact Houston Police.

Rebecca Hennes covers community news. Read her on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, houstonchronicle.com. | rebecca.hennes@chron.com | Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message

Evan Vucci, STF / Associated Press

U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul, who represents Katy in Washington, D.C., will return to Capitol Hill with a different position than the one he held before the elections.

McCaul was selected by the House Republican Conference to serve as the senior member of the GOP on the House Foreign Affairs Committee for the 116th Congress. In a statement released by his office, McCaul said he was honored to be selected and saluted the outgoing chairman, U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R- Calif.) who will retire from Congress.Geffen/UMeThe 1989 Lynyrd Skynyrd best-of compilation Skynyrd's Innyrds: Their Greatest Hits has just been reissued on vinyl. The album is available on standard black vinyl and limited-edition brown vinyl.

The 10-track collection is the Southern rock legends' best-selling album to date, having sold more than five million copies in the U.S. alone. Among the classic tunes from the group's 1970s heyday featured on the record: "Sweet Home Alabama," "Gimme Three Steps," "What's Your Name," "Saturday Night Special," "Don't Ask Me No Questions," "That Smell" and "Free Bird."

The version of "Free Bird" featured on Skynyrd's Innyrds features an extended, unfaded ending that doesn't appear on the originally released version from the band's 1973 debut album, (Pronounced 'Leh-'nerd 'Skin-'nerd).

The current Skynyrd lineup continues its Last of the Street Survivors Farewell Tour with a show this Friday, December 7, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The trek is currently scheduled to run through a 2019 European trek that winds down at the end of June.

Here's the Skynyrd's Innyrds track list:

Side A

"Sweet Home Alabama"

"Swamp Music"

"Gimme Three Steps"

"Double Trouble" (Outtake Version)

"Free Bird" (Outtake Version)

Side B

"Saturday Night Special"

"What's Your Name"

"That Smell"

"Don't Ask Me No Questions"

"Call Me the Breeze"

Copyright  2018, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.The Parma High School Marching Band leads the way as the Parma Christmas parade gets under way on Dec. 2.

PARMA, Ohio -- Sunny weather and mild temperatures helped draw a big crowd for the annual Parma Christmas Parade on Dec. 2.

People lined both sides of Ridge Road along the half-mile parade route from City Hall south to the Stearns Homestead, where the parade disbanded.

Leading the way were Parma police and a Parma Fire Department truck, followed by the Parma High School Marching Band. The band members were attired in their red-and-black uniforms and Santa hats. Some decorated their instruments.

Jennifer Kalnicki, a Parma native who lives in North Royalton, watches the parade with her son, Jonathon, 18 months.

Many other vehicles, church, school, Scout, merchant and other units participated in the annual holiday parade. Children scurried to collect candy tossed by marchers.

The Homestead Hoofers from Stearns Homestead rode in a trailer pulled by a tractor while some members walked with some of the animals, including the mini horses.

Santa Claus waves to the crowd as he rides with a helper on the Parma Area Chamber of Commerce float.

One of the more unique marching groups was a group of people from Krazy Fit, who wore special bounce shoes with spring-like attachments that let them jump along the parade route.

The Valley Forge High School Marching Band was near the end of the parade, providing music as Santa Claus arrived in style with one of his helpers on the Parma Area Chamber of Commerce float, along with his sleigh.

"This was our biggest parade yet," said Mayor Tim DeGeeter. He credited the cooperative weather with helping to increase the crowd size.

After taking office in 2012, DeGeeter said the parade route was changed to mesh with the Holidays at the Homestead festivities that traditionally take place the first weekend in December at Stearns Homestead, which is operated by the Parma Area Historical Society.

Ruth Fay, historical society president, said there was a nice crowd both Dec. 1 and 2 for the special holiday events. Visitors could participate in crafts and seasonal activities, view the animals that live on the working 48-acre farm and visit with Santa Claus.

As dusk arrived, lights at the farm were lit on a tree in front of the Gibbs house, one of two historic homes on the property. The other is the old Stearns farmhouse.

Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter is interviewed by a television reporter after the parade.

The mood was festive despite another loss by the Cleveland Browns, DeGeeter said.

"It's a nice city tradition and I'm glad so many people turned out," he added.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Nearly 20 years ago, while living and working in Montgomery County, a Conroe High School graduate made a reputation for himself by going a bit overboard with his Christmas decorations. That jolly man is now known as "Santa Nate."

"It's an honor, to me it's a calling," said Montgomery County Lifestyle Editor Nathan Arrazate. "A lot of people can try to be Santa Claus but I think only a few people can capture the true spirit of Santa Claus. I think I'm supposed to do it."

All the decorative enthusiasm paid off in 1998 when Arrazate heard the voice of a little girl exclaim to her father about how beautiful the decorations were. It was then that Arrazate said he told himself someday he wanted to be Santa Claus, standing in a suit outside, and waving at the children.

The dream became reality in 2007, when Arrazate stopped by a party store that was going out of business in Jacksonville, Fla., and found a Santa Claus suit on sale.

DAZZLING LIGHTS: The best spots around Houston to see holiday lights in 2018

Soon after, he started "Drive-by Santa" with a goal to encourage a busy society to slow down from their lives to take time for the children and visit with "Santa Nate," in his driveway.

In 2013, Arrazate returned to Montgomery County where he now lives in Conroe. He works as an event promoter and marketer to help increase the visibility of events and community activities. He's involved with the Friends of Conroe, the Conroe Salvation Army and Montgomery County Fair Association, among other groups.

Want to know more? For more information about Santa Nate, call 936-446-9545, find Santa Nate on Facebook or email n.arrazate@gmail.com See More Collapse

However, Arrazate most enjoys his Santa role, where he is able to visit children and families that are often facing hardship and could use a lift with a little holiday spirit.

Arrazate has ordered two new suits and is about to get one more this year. He has dyed his hair and grew a real beard for the first time as well.

This year, Arrazate made a special visit to a family in The Woodlands that is praying for husband and father Jason Stanfield. Despite his diagnoses with a skull-based, life threatening Angiosarcoma cancer that has spread throughout his body, Stanfield remains confident and positive he will defeat cancer. As the fight takes a toll on his body, he has become more homebound, which prevented him and his wife, Kristin, from being able to take their two young children to visit Santa Claus at The Woodlands Mall this year.

The family shared the visit meant everything to them to see the look on the faces of their 4-year-old Maddie and 6-year-old Derek as "Santa Nate" unexpectedly walked through the door of their home, where he sang Christmas songs and read holiday books with the children.

"It makes a world of difference in a place and a time where you have to cherish every moment," Jason Stanfield said.

DECEMBER TO DO LIST: Holiday themed events happening around Houston

Arrazate held hands with the family in prayer with a request for healing. He views his role of Santa is to share love for all.

"These are moments of honor that our hearts can never forget and could only be a gift from God," Arrazate said. "Little ones need the magic and hope that the Santa mystique offers and now more than ever, they need good old fashioned fun and simplicity. Kids are distracted and pulled in too many directions and are asked to grow up too fast. There are so many adults who need a simple Santa hug."

Arrazate is scheduled to be "Santa Nate" at no cost to a few folks such as nonprofits and school organizations, and for his stylist during the inaugural open house at Denise's Salon on Texas 105.

Santa Nate will be at the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce Morning Mingle and Jingle at Incredible Pizza from 7:30-9 a.m. on Dec. 13.

mellsworth@hcnonline.comBalletForte / BalletForte

Pre-professional ballet company BalletForte presents its annual full-length, traditional The Nutcracker ballet at the Stafford Centre Dec. 7-9, featuring a cast of more than 100 dancers from the local area.

Tickets start at $12 and ample and free parking is available at the Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Road in Stafford.A Houston-area teacher admitted to having a long-term sexual relationship with a former Bellaire High School student from May 2014 to June 2018, during which they were caught having sex inside multiple vehicles and briefly lived together, according to charging documents filed last week in Harris County district court.

David Ziesmer, 26, has been charged with having an improper relationship with a student and sexual assault of a child. He has been released from custody after posting $20,000 bonds for each charge, records show.

RELATED: Cy-Springs teacher who had sex with 15-year-old student was off her medication

Houston ISD police filed the charges Nov. 26, more than a month after the victim came forward with information about the relationship.

According to the charging documents, the victim said she had been in a relationship with Ziesmer starting in May 2014, when she was a 15-year-old freshman. Ziesmer taught her world geography class as a student teacher in the 2013-14 school year, police said.

The victim said they had sex inside "several of his vehicles" and started living together with Ziesmer's parents after her 18th birthday, police said.

More recently, Ziesmer had been a teacher at Crosby High School as of August 2018. He was placed on administrative leave Nov. 12 when district officials found out about his charges, and he has since resigned, according to a statement from Crosby ISD.

Crosby ISD officials said they notified the Texas state Board for Educator Certification and conducted their own internal investigation.

"The investigation revealed no misconduct related to Crosby ISD students," the statement read. "During the employment process with Crosby ISD, there had been no information indicating concerns relating to the allegations or any other criminal misconduct. Crosby ISD is committed to student safety and will not tolerate any criminal wrongdoing by educators involving students."

In a separate statement, HISD officials said Ziesmer was never officially employed by the district as a student teacher. Also, district officials didn't find anything when they conducted his initial background check, the statement said.

"HISD's priority is the safety and well-being of all students," they said in the statement.

RELATED: Notable sex scandals involving Houston-area teachers in 2018

According to the charging document, the victim was twice caught with Ziesmer in her home. The first time, in February 2015, the victim's mother arrived home from work early and reportedly found Ziesmer hiding under a blanket with the girl. The victim said they met in her math class.

Then, several months later, the mother caught them sleeping in bed together in the home, charging documents say.

When questioned by police, Ziesmer admitted to the relationship, adding that "nothing was sexual until after her 17th birthday," the document states.

He also admitted they were caught having sex in a car at a "random" apartment complex when she was 17.

His next court hearing is scheduled for Feb. 19.

Julian Gill is a digital reporter in Houston. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, houstonchronicle.com. | julian.gill@chron.com | Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text messageA Harris County jury quickly convicted 20-year-old Philip Battles of capital murder for the 2016 shooting death of 4-year-old girl Ava Castillo during her mothers purse snatching, just one of four armed robberies a violent crew pulled in one evening.

Battles did not react as visiting state District Judge Leslie Yates announced the jurys verdict, which came after only 20 minutes of deliberations. Castillos family members wiped their eyes after an emotional morning of closing arguments that included a photo of the toothy 4-year-old child just days before her death.

In a tearful victim impact statement after the verdict, Castillos mother described losing her daughter.

Theres an emptiness inside me that can never be filled because of Avas death, said Diana Gomez, who was shot seven times during the robbery. I didnt have the chance to say goodbye. She was gone before I knew it.

Gomez broke down on the witness stand as she talked about the girl who was killed almost instantly when she was shot in the head in a hail of 13 shots fired from an assault rifle-style weapon. Avas older sister was shot in the stomach and survived.

My little Ava was always happy and always had this big smile on her face, Gomez said in tears. She could just light up the whole room.

Battles was automatically sentenced to life in prison without parole for his part in the November 14, 2016 robbery with two other men who sprayed an apartment parking lot with 13 bullets, killing the child and wounding her mother and sister.

Throughout the trial, prosecutors have presented evidence to show that on the day Castillo was killed, Battles, along with two other Houston teens, committed a total of four violent armed robberies. Battles acknowledged to Houston police he drove the car during the robberies.

Its because of Philip Battles and his crew that Ava Castillo is no longer with us, prosecutor Shannon Drehner told jurors in closing arguments of the week-long trial. What we know about Philip Battles is that no one is off limits, not even children.

Battles defense team argued that he was guilty of aggravated robbery, not capital murder, because the trio of men were trying to rob Castillos mother, not kill anyone.

There was no conscious objective, other than to rob, defense lawyer Mack Hochglaube argued. Unless there is a conscious objective to kill, its not a capital murder.

After the verdict, Battles attorneys said he is intellectually disabled and made bad choices.

Its a sad situation for everybody, both sides, Jerald Graber said. Its a young kid who is intellectual disabled and had a lot of troubles and burdens for being intellectually disabled, but he made bad decisions and the jury felt that it was sufficient to prove capital murder.

Jurors did not answer questions as they left the courthouse.

Investigators said the three men first pistol-whipped a man and stole his black Honda Accord about 6:45 p.m. near Cypresswood. That car had a set of keys with a Bluetooth GPS locator and a phone, both of which police were later used to plot the vehicles path. Prosecutors said Battles bought the .22 caliber semi-automatic assault style rifle just days before the crime spree.

He acquired the gun, he acquired the bullets, he set this whole thing in motion, Assistant Harris County District Attorney Cameron Calligan said. He acquired that tool of destruction.

After highjacking the car, the group then went to the Greenspoint-area apartment complex where the girl and her family was unloading groceries in the parking lot. Witnesses, including Avas mother, Diana Gomez, said three men tried to take her purse and allegedly opened fire killing the 4-year-old girl about 8:45 p.m. At that crime scene, the robbers left a backpack that had been in the stolen car.

Two hours later, investigators said, the crew was near Crosswinds and Sam Houston Parkway where they allegedly robbed two men who were working on a car, stealing among other things, a credit card later found in the stolen car. While striking one of the robbery victims with a gun, bullets were dropped that later matched the caliber and manufacturer of the bullets in the weapon that killed Castillo.

Minutes after that assault, they allegedly pistol-whipped a man while robbing him. It was during that assault, that the gun was fired again, leaving behind a spent shell casing that matched the casing found at the complex where Castillo was killed.

After he was arrested, Battles told police he was only the driver. Under Texas law, all parties to a crime can be charged with the same crime, whether they fired a shot or even just acted as a lookout.

That defendant is guilty of capital murder and so is every member of his crew, Calligan said.

Battles has also been charged in the 2016 shooting deaths of Ignacio H. Ortega, 62, on Nov. 7 and Melvin Enrique Bonilla-Fuente, 31, on Nov. 8. Officials have also confirmed an eyewitness reported seeing Battles during an unrelated September 2016 fatal shooting.

The killings took place during armed robberies. Battles is considered a suspect in more than 20 armed robberies, sources said after he was charged with Castillos death. The jurors did not hear about those other allegations and heard little about the other two men.

Earlier this year, Ferrell Dardar pleaded guilty to 60 years in prison and will be eligible for parole in 30 years. Marco Anthony Miller is awaiting trial.Bill and Hillary Clinton's speaking event in Sugar Land has been rescheduled for a later date due to former president George H. W. Bush's death, the event organizer announced Monday.

The Clintons, initially scheduled to speak at the Smart Financial Centre Tuesday evening, instead will fly to Washington, D.C., to "pay their respects to President Bush and his family," Live Nation Marketing Director Brian Birr said in an email.

Bush, who Bill Clinton defeated in the 1992 presidential election, died Friday at age 94. His remains are being transported Monday to the U.S. Capitol, ahead of a memorial service Wednesday morning at the National Cathedral.

Live Nation and the Clintons have yet to announce a new date for the Sugar Land event, which was scheduled to be the third stop in a 13-city tour. It kicked off in Toronto, where the duo did not sell out the nearly 20,000-seat Scotiabank Arena.

After Tuesday's event, the Clintons do not have a scheduled tour stop until April, when they will resume at the Beacon Theatre in New York City. The tour wraps up in May 2019.

At initial stops in Toronto and Montreal, the Clintons have rebuked Trump, who defeated Hillary Clinton about two years ago. Before the tour began, Clinton said in an interview she would "like to be president," but has not indicated whether she plans to run again.

Bush and Bill Clinton maintained close ties in the years following the 1992 election, and Clinton in a statement said he was "profoundly grateful for every minute" he spent with Bush and "will always hold our friendship as one of my life's greatest gifts."A 15-year-old girl was reportedly almost abducted in Alvin Sunday after she fought off a male suspect that tried to grab her while she was on an nightly jog, according to police.

According to a press release from the Brazoria County Sheriff's Office, the 15-year-old white female was jogging in the 4800 block of Country Road 392 in Alvin around 9:30pm Sunday when a Hispanic male suspect approached her. The victim told police the male suspect stopped his truck, an early 2000's model Chevrolet Silverado truck described as a tan color 4-door, got out of the vehicle and wrapped his arms around her, according to the release.Fort Bend County Offices will be closed on Wednesday, Dec. 5, to recognize the National Day of Mourning for the passing of President George Herbert Walker Bush.

Bush died Friday, Nov. 30, at his home in Houston.Q: I remarried three years ago, and I have two grown children. My wife has one grown child. None of them resides with us. I owned our house free and clear before we got married. Does a Transfer on Death Deed (in this case to my children) have any effect on the Texas homestead rights of my wife if I die before her?

A: No, it has no effect at all.

Before you die, there are only two ways for your wife to lose her homestead right. One is if she agrees in writing to give it up. The other is if the two of you get divorced.

You could also sell the home and rent a home or apartment, and if you die without a homestead, then there would be no property for her to claim as the marital homestead. But clearly, you would be penalizing yourself, possibly for decades, just to keep your wife from making a homestead claim.

Typically, you would see a waiver of the homestead right contained in a prenuptial agreement. It is much rarer to see it in a postnuptial agreement, which is a marital property agreement signed by two people who are already married, because the spouse without the house would have little reason or motivation to sign.

To persuade your wife to sign such an agreement, you would likely need to give her something valuable in exchange.

Also, for a marital property agreement to be enforceable, it is highly advisable that each spouse be represented by a separate attorney. In your case, the lawyer representing your wife would undoubtedly tell her she shouldnt sign away her homestead right without being adequately compensated. As a consequence, she might demand enough cash or stocks either at the time of signing or at the time of your death to cover the cost of renting or buying a substitute home.

Clearly, that could be a considerable sum. And thats in addition to the fees you would have to pay to the two lawyers.

After you have died, your wife can abandon the home, but no one can force her to move out.

The bottom line is that the homestead right of a surviving spouse is extremely valuable, and you cant get around the law by simply signing a Transfer on Death Deed.

Q: Where can I get a guidebook for a beginner explaining how to settle an estate in Texas that has financial assets, a house, a car and household items? There are no debts, and its under $1 million.

A: You can download a 50-page guidebook from the State Bars website at www.texasbar.com. Once there, click on For the Public then on Free Legal Resources then on Pamphlets and then on Wills and Probate.

There are two guidebooks, one on wills and the other on probate.

The information in this column is intended to provide a general understanding of the law, not legal advice. Readers with legal problems, including those whose questions are addressed here, should consult attorneys for advice on their particular circumstances.

Ronald Lipman of the Houston law firm Lipman & Associates is board-certified in estate planning and probate law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Email questions to stateyourcase@lipmanpc.com.Grief and guilt weighed heavily on Kai Xu as he recounted his wifes troubling behavior leading up to her arrest this weekend in the tragic drowning death of their 5-year-old son.

He mostly blames himself for believing that leaving his wife alone with their child, Jiandong Xu, when he went to work Friday morning could help her recover from a downward spiral of depression that began in March.

She loved my son. Thats why I let my son be together with her, Xu said between sobs from his west Houston home Sunday. My son could make her better and recover. That was my mistake.

The toy-packed living room where Xu sat was quiet. He and his 43-year-old wife, Lihui Liu, bought the home in a gated Energy Corridor community after moving to Texas from Singapore in 2012. Soon after, their second child, Jiandong, was born. The white walls of their home were adorned with his crayon doodles.

SPIKE IN MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES: How Texas schools are dealing

In the kitchen, bags of groceries  dumplings, kiwis, nuts and bread  Xu had bought his wife went untouched in the wake of her arrest. She has been charged with capital murder and held without bail after Xu made the horrifying find Friday night in their garage.

He returned home from work unable to find his son, who stayed home from daycare at Lius request. As he searched the house, Liu revealed that their child was in the trash can, according to police. Xu looked inside the bin and found his sons severed head and body wrapped in a black plastic bag.

After Xu called police, investigators found a blood-spattered bathtub and a bloody knife in the bathroom. Liu refused to talk to police about the decapitation but allegedly told investigators she drowned the child.

Liu is slated to return to court on Thursday. Child Protective Services interacted with the family back in 2015, though the children were never in state custody. It was not immediately known why the agency was involved, or how that involvement ended. Liu, who is now facing an immigration detainer, does not appear to have any prior criminal history in Harris County.

She was being treated for mental health problems after a suicide attempt in August, he said, about a year after she underwent a hysterectomy to remove a mass. She tried drowning herself in a nearby bayou and was rescued, he said. He believes the surgery contributed to her bizarre behavior.

She was prescribed antidepressants from the Harris County Psychiatric Center after she tried to kill herself, but Xu said she refused to take the medication because it left her restless at night and exhausted during the day. He would find her standing outside at odd hours, telling her husband at least once that someone told her to do so.

Xu said she vanished from their home in the middle of the night and was found by police the next morning.

After he sent her on a two-week trip to visit her parents in northeast China, he believed quality time with her children, Jiandong and their 13-year-old daughter, could ease her mind. He said he was alarmed to see that when she returned from China on Nov. 20, she had chopped off her shoulder-length hair. The result of her close crop was visible in a booking photo released Saturday by Houston police.

OPINION: It's not guns. It's not mental health issues. It's both.

He worried for Liu as she began her third night at the Harris County Jail.

I don't like her because she killed my son. I'm very angry, he said. But as her husband, I need to take care of her.

He hopes she has a warm blanket and is eating. In the weeks before her arrest, she was refusing food, save for the occasional orange he bought her.

Every morning I wake up, I feel bad. I think I should take care of her. I call police, maybe I need to send her food, Xu said. If I dont send food, in weeks or a month, she will die.

Over the weekend, he broke the devastating news to his wifes parents that their grandson had died. Soon after, his heartbroken mother-in-law was rushed to a hospital.

I told her parents, She killed my son,  Xu said. Her mother is now in the hospital because she, like her daughter, loved my son.

He doesnt have the heart to make the same call to his own parents, who also live in China, fearing that Jiandongs death could hurt his mother as well.

My son was very loved. I havent told my mother, I think for all my life I wont tell my her until she dies, he said.

nicole.hensley@chron.com

Keri Blakinger contributed to this report.A menorah emerged from a 500-pound block of ice Sunday afternoon as Rolando De La Garza, an ice sculptor, wielded a chainsaw with a flourish to carve out the shape of the candelabrum. Hundreds of people gathered in awe in Discovery Green as a remix of Adam Sandlers The Hanukkah Song pumped in the background.

For the first night of the eight-day celebration, Chabad Outreach of Houston held a free event on the Discovery Green featuring face painting, balloon artists and Hanukkah arts and crafts. Genesis Steakhouse arrived at 8 a.m. to begin smoking $10,000 worth of beef ribs and lamb shanks under the eye of a kosher supervisor; the DLG Ice Factory began preparing the ice blocks for the menorah days in advance.

Rabbi Moishe Traxler, who organized the event, said Hanukkah is the most public facing celebration in the Jewish faith. He added that public celebrations of the holiday are getting bigger and more widespread every year. Traxler sees the festival of light, which celebrates a menorah that miraculously burned for eight days, as particularly meaningful in the wake of the deadliest attack on Jews in American history, which left 11 people dead in late October in Pittsburgh.

When there is tragedy, push away the darkness with light, he said. This is, in a very public way, bringing the message that America was founded on  of freedom to practice ones religion without oppression.

For some people, the menorah lighting in Discovery Green was one of many Hanukkah celebrations theyre planning to attend this week, and others just stumbled upon the event. Ten-year-old Melanie Zendejo said she came to the park because Santa Claus was there that afternoon. And then we walked over here and saw this, she said, as she worked on a picture of a dreidel.

You have people of all faiths celebrating  I think thats nice, said Gittel Francis, who is Jewish. With the events happening in the world today, I think any bit of light that you can add to the world  good light, positive light  is what is needed right now.

After the ice menorah was completed by De La Garza, better known in the ice sculpting world as the Rev. Butter, U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Houston, went on stage to address the crowd.

No one, no one should be denied their faith and their ability to worship without danger, devastation or being harmed. This is a free nation to love your faith, she said.

What does this holiday have to do with someone who is not Jewish? Traxler asked. He saw an answer in the outpouring of support from people of all faiths in the aftermath of the mass shooting in Pittsburgh.

Were one humanity, he said. Every human being has to care for another person.  One candle can push away a lot of darkness. Everybody here is a candle.

And with that, prayers were sung and the candle representing the first night of Hanukkah was lit at sunset. It twinkled brightly in an ice bed, the fire and water coexisting.

rebecca.schuetz@chron.com

twitter.com/raschuetzA couple of hundred people  LGBT activists and KPFT-FM staff, ex-cons and politicians, a few college professors and a lot rabble-rousers  gathered outside City Hall Sunday afternoon to pay respects to the Ray Hill, for decades one of Houstons leading hellraisers.

Black-and-white photos of Hill in his 70s heyday hung behind the speakers: Sexy, bearded young Hill leading some march; and Hill at the AstroArena Town Meeting that he organized, a seminal moment in Houstons LGBT history. Speakers remembered his work with The Prison Show, his Supreme Court decision, the stories he spun, the careers he helped get started. Lots of the stories were funny; a couple were raunchy.

But the most moving was told by Annise Parker  Houstons former mayor, herself a star in the citys LGBT history.

Ray Hill was not my friend, Parker said. I cant tell you how he liked his coffee. He called her Parker not Annise, not Mayor.

He wasnt her mentor, she said. She didnt ask his advice. And they were wildly different human beings: She a policy wonk, he the master of the grand gesture. He wasnt an organization builder, she said. He was a movement builder.

So why did Hill ask her to organize his memorial service? For the life of me, she said, I do not know.

They met in 1975, when Parker was a lesbian feminist undergrad at Rice. Hill was from her parents generation, an elder statesman from a movement we didnt yet know to call a movement. They worked together on causes such as ending police harassment of gays and lesbians in Montrose.

But, Parker said, they butted heads, disagreeing as often as they agreed. Twice they ran against each other for the presidency of Houstons GLBT Political Caucus, and twice, she won  once by a single vote.

Eventually Parker entered not just LGBT politics but mainstream politics. She was elected Montroses representative to City Council, then city controller, and eventually, mayor.

They were sorta-kinda allies, not friends. But Hill basked in Parkers ascension to mainstream power. It was proof of how far the LGBT movement had come. And when he wanted a political favor  for instance, when hed heard that Houston police had turned down an applicant for being gay  he didnt hesitate to call her.

Sometimes the favors were political. Sometimes, more personal.

Remember that time he declared he was retiring from activism? she asked. And he scored a great story in the Chronicle but then didnt retire? She spoke at his retirement roast. And there, he asked her to do his eulogy.

She laughed. She didnt think he was serious.

But years went by, and every time she saw Hill, hed talk about three things. Hed remind her that she was going to do that eulogy. Hed tell her he was proud of her. And hed tell her that he loved her.

The first few times he told her he loved her, Parker says, she rolled her eyes. That wasnt who they were to each other.

But he kept saying it: That he loved her. For a few years, when hed say it, shed pretend she hadnt heard him.

He kept saying it anyway. She began to mumble, Yeah, love you too.

Finally, she said, she got to the right answer: I love you too.

Ray wore me down, she explained. That was a lot of how he accomplished things in life: He wore you down.

In September, as he was nearing death, Hill expanded his request: Not just to do his eulogy, but to organize the entire memorial. He didnt mention to her that he wanted it to be on the steps of City Hall. She found that out, she said, by reading it in an article in the Chronicle: One last time, Hill was using the media to pressure a politician.

Of course she was exasperated. And of course she made the phone calls, used her pull with City Hall.

And there, on that sunny Sunday afternoon, was Ray Hills last victory. He was being remembered as he wanted: on the steps of the City Hall hed so often fought, by the woman hed worn down until she didnt just make the arrangements but loved him. And laughed about it.Dozens of newspapers paid tribute to the death of George H.W. Bush at the age of 94 on Friday. Many of the publications remarked on his tenure as the nation's 41st President, as well as his time as vice president and congressman.

His hometown paper, Houston Chronicle, praised his life of service and said the nation had lost a leader "who represented the best of politics and public service."The hugs NASA astronaut Anne McClain received as she floated through the International Space Station hatch Monday werent unusual greetings for a new crew mate, but theres no doubt they held a little more weight.

The last people who tried to reach the space station in October didnt make it.

Im very proud of this international team and what we did today, said Bill Gerstenmaier, associate administrator for NASA's Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate, during a livestream following the launch. What we got to see is a tribute to the work [the team] put in over these past several weeks  a short amount of time.

Monday marked Russia's first crewed mission to the space station since Oct. 11, when its Soyuz spacecraft transporting American astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Alexey Ovchinin to the orbiting laboratory had to abort its launch after a rocket booster failed, forcing an emergency landing.

RESHUFFLING: NASA astronaut Anne McClain says shes ready for flight to Space Station next month

NASA announced Monday that a mission had been added in February, giving Hague and Ovchinin a second chance to live on the space station. They will be joined by American astronaut Christina Hammock Koch, a member of the 2013 astronaut class who initially was scheduled to fly in April.

The October abort was Russias first in 35 years and many officials deemed it a success: both Hague and Ovchinin were safe and in good condition. But it made some space experts question whether Russias space program was up to snuff, especially because it was preceded by the discovery of an air leak-causing hole in a different Soyuz docked to the space station in late August.

Russian officials in November announced that the failed launch was the result of a malfunctioning sensor, which caused the first and second stages of the rocket launching the Soyuz to crash into each other, breaking the second stage and forcing an emergency landing.

The sensor was damaged, Russian officials said, during the rockets assembly at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, where the Soyuz is launched.

There still is no word on what caused the hole in the space station, but the Russians are conducting a spacewalk Dec. 11 to look at the exterior of the Soyuz, said Kelly Humphries, NASA spokesman. In the meantime, the patch put in place by the crew still is holding.

NASA has relied on the Russians to transport its astronauts to the space station since 2011, when the space shuttle program was shuttered. Commercial vehicles being built by SpaceX and Boeing are meant to alleviate that reliance, but those programs are behind schedule.

The current crew on the station  NASAs Serena Aunon-Chancellor, European Space Agencys Alexander Gerst and Russias Sergey Prokopyev  arrived in June and are scheduled to return to Earth on Dec. 20.

Gerst warmly welcomed McClain, Russias Oleg Kononenko and Canadian Space Agencys David Saint-Jacques to space via Twitter on Monday morning.

Congratulations to the Russian Space Agency @roscosmos and all international partners for a flawless launch of #SoyuzMS11, he wrote.

Octobers aborted flight would have made Hague the first in his 2013 astronaut class to fly. McClain now holds that title.

Because of the abort, NASA had to cancel two spacewalks to upgrade the space stations power systems that were supposed to be conducted by Hague. There is a possibility McClain could conduct those in his stead, though an official decision had not been made as of last month.

In the meantime, Hague and Ovchinin have a path forward for flight. There still are many unknowns, however, about the coming year on the space station.

We know their launch date but we dont know exactly when theyll return, Gerstenmaier said. We dont know exactly the details of 2019.

Alex Stuckey writes about NASA and the environment for the Houston Chronicle. You can reach her at alex.stuckey@chron.com or Twitter.com/alexdstuckey.Documentaries arent journalism, and theres nothing wrong with that, read the headline of an article published in October by Washington Post film critic Ann Hornaday. The journalists mission is to share information, whereas the filmmakers mission is to elicit emotion. As a professor in a school of journalism that prides itself on teaching compelling storytelling and accurate fact-gathering, this struck me as a spurious distinction.

Whatever their medium, reporters arent scribesthey gather and synthesize facts, choose quotes, decide what context is most relevant, and unfold a story to create meaning. Journalism has evolved beyond a very narrow concept of objectivity to include notions of fairness and inclusivity, ideas that have fed a diversity of voices in the current age of documentary. By Hornadays logic, her own work as a critic wouldnt count as journalism, since it incorporates opinion. Nor would about half the articles in any newspaper. Saying all documentaries arent journalism is akin to saying longform magazine writers arent journalists.

ICYMI: Headlines editors probably wish they could take back

Still, Hornadays critique highlights a debate that has raged within the documentary filmmaking community since the form emerged nearly a hundred years ago: What is truth? And when capturing it, what role should filmmakers play? Revisiting the history of the modern documentary in the United States may shed some light.

In 1955, Edward R. Murrow was its undisputed king. Murrow had pioneered the TV news documentary, and he was the host of the popular and critically praised series See It Now. But that year, a former Life magazine photographer named Robert Drew, on a yearlong Nieman Fellowship at Harvard, initiated a revolution in the documentary form.

At Harvard, Drew wrote in a 2001 issue of Nieman Reports, I focused on two questions: Why are documentaries so dull? What would it take for them to become gripping and exciting? Murrows producers, Drew realized, were making what he called lectures with pictures: the audio told the story, but without it, the visuals had no coherence. Hoping to find ways to make viewers experience the news, Drew began studying other narrative formsplays, novels, short storiesand concluded that what builds interest and feeling on television is dramatic logic: As the power of the drama builds, viewers respond emotionally as well as intellectually.

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Drew understood that enhancing the impact and immediacy of documentary storytelling would require cameras to become mobile. In the late 1950s, he and the British filmmaker Richard Leacock, working with other future legends such as D. A. Pennebaker and Al and David Maysles, developed a portable camera that could record picture separately from audio, a significant breakthrough. In 1960, Drew got the chance to apply his new technology to a major national subject. That year, he persuaded Democratic presidential candidates John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey to follow them as they slugged out a tough political fight in Wisconsin. The result, the hour-long documentary Primary, established a new visual vocabulary for documentaries and is widely considered the beginning of American cinema verite.

Drew transformed the dry documentary news of Edward R. Murrow into a medium for narrative filmmaking. Within CBS, Murrows producers took advantage of the new technology to make Harvest of Shame, about migrant workers in Florida. Although considered a benchmark of investigative journalism in 1960, it would now be considered advocacy. Meanwhile, Maysles, Pennebaker, and others were developing a language that bridged reality and cinema, providing the substance for Hornadays assertion. But while they proved that documentaries can sway audiences in ways print journalism cant, that doesnt mean theyre any less journalism.

Im a former network news producer, so I understand the position of Hornaday and others. The revolutions in both technology and newsrooms over the past 30 years have changed the field. Many newsrooms have contracted, putting investigative journalists out of the business; and the news networks produce investigative documentaries only sporadically. Meanwhile, access to filmmaking technology has democratized the documentary form, opening it up to often untrained practitioners.

In some cases, filmmakers intentionally cross the line in ways that can be confusing to audiences. For instance, in 2004, Robert Houston and Robert Hudsons Mighty Times: The Childrens March, a documentary short about a pivotal moment of the civil rights movement in 1963, faked archival footage using child actors. More recently, Liz Garbuss 2015 film What Happened, Miss Simone? inserted footage of a child actor playing eight-year-old Nina Simone so skillfully that it could barely be distinguished from the actual archival material that preceded and followed.

Now, as an independent documentarian, I have no access to the infrastructure of a networktheir standards and practices, their fact-checking procedures, the many discussions with editors over linguistic nuance. And whereas producers and correspondents are taught to draw lines between their personal and professional lives, I might spend years following a single family, which tends to blur boundaries. While my reporting background has trained me to seek out various stakeholders in a story and maintain fairness, some independent filmmakers seem perplexed when I raise these issues.

If a film purports to be journalistic, its got to stand up to scrutiny, says Simon Kilmurry, a former executive producer of PBS POV and the executive director of the International Documentary Association. Kilmurry recently started the Enterprise Documentary Fund, with money from the MacArthur Foundation, to support filmmakers who engage in journalistic practices. To run it, he hired Carrie Lozano, a veteran of the Investigative Reporting Program at UC Berkeleys Graduate School of Journalism. In its three years of existence, the fund has supported 35 films, with $1.9 million. Lozano says the fund emphasizes fairness in its conversations with filmmakers, a mission Lozano sees as especially important given the current public antagonism toward journalism. Films can have a point of view but still be factual, she says.

For most documentarians, cinematic technique becomes another way to convey information. Diana Jean Schemo, a 13-year veteran of The New York Times, reiterates Robert Drews critique of Murrow by noting that many investigative reporters, who trade in facts and anecdotes, arent the best storytellers. Meanwhile, what audiences find intriguing are characters with whom they can empathize. When I read a piece in the New Yorker thats written with a certain creative flair, is that not journalism? asks Kilmurry. If you make a film beautiful, more people will see it. Take the recent hit RBG, about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, directed by my colleagues Betsy West and Julie Cohen and coproduced by CNN Films. Its an example of what the networks can do when they invest in journalistic documentarieseven Hornaday mentions it as a seamless blend of art and journalism.

Some storieslike those about marginalized people who lack the archival and other records upon which traditional documentaries are builtsimply require different narrative forms. When you go into the nonfiction section of the bookstore, theres history, memoir, reportage, says Thom Powers, artistic director of the documentary festival DOC NYC, which screened over 250 documentaries earlier this month. Documentary is the same way.

Schemo, who is the executive editor of the investigative-journalism consortium 100Reporters and founder of the Double Exposure Film Festival, which highlights investigative reporting in film, thinks filmmakers have a lot to teach investigative reporters. She cites A Woman Captured, the story of a woman forced into slavery, which The Guardian called one of the boldest investigative films of recent years. Its director, Bernadett Tuza-Ritter, filmed only close-up shots of her subject, Marish: off-camera voices of her exploiters provide context, while the film itself details the mental and physical exhaustion of slavery.

Tuza-Ritter is transparent about having paid for access to her subject, and also about the role she plays in Marishs eventual escape. No mainstream journalist would have done such a thing, but then no mainstream journalist could have given audiences such a direct experience of the captured womans despair as she futilely seeks help. The film is a perfect example of the cameras unique capacity to observe peoples lives at crucial moments. Like all works of journalism, it offers a form of truththe kind, as Robert Drew described, that can only be gotten by personal experience.

ICYMI: The Associated Press deletes Bush tweet

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June Cross is a professor and founder of the documentary specialization at Columbia Journalism School.Shortly before midnight on Friday, George H.W. Bush died at home in Houston. He was 94. Bushs death set the stage for a weekend of tribute. Although some media coverage of Americas 41st president (mostly in left-leaning outlets) was harshly critical, the majority was glowing and nostalgic. In between, nuanced depictions of a complicated life got crowded out. The tenor of the news cycle felt much as it did in August following the death of John McCain.

As the news filtered through, many outlets published their obituaries of Bush. Obituaries are a strange artmost big news organizations write them in advance then keep them in cold storage, particularly when subjects are advanced in years and/or have a serious medical condition (Bush announced, in 2012, that he was living with vascular parkinsonism, a mobility-limiting disease). Political obituaries, in particular, can thus feel suspended in timeinfusing the historical period they cover with the assumptions and values of when they were written. When finally published, obituaries are updated to mirror the mood of the daysetting a narrative around a dead public figure that subsequent coverage tends to reinforce.

ICYMI: Headlines editors probably wish they could take back

In Bushs case, that coverage has been dominated by favorable comparisons to President Trump. Bushs death, much like McCains before him, became a metaphor for the death of civility in politics. A warm letter Bush wrote his successor, Bill Clinton, was held up as an artifact of bipartisan comity, as BuzzFeeds Anne Helen Petersen noted in an insightful post. Many outlets highlighted Bushs broad public popularityboth during his presidency and nowas an example of rare national consensus. And on cable news, in particular, commentators portrayed Bush as an honorable man who did politics the nice way. On CNN, Colin Powell, chairman of the joint chiefs of staff under Bush, summed up much coverage when he said, Politics need not be mean and nasty, and he lived by that.

Obituaries and the coverage leading off of them are news stories, not historical scholarship, so its understandable that they plug into current events. It is ironic, then, that the press glossed over Bushs failures and flaws when so many of them track closely with recent developments in our politics. Just last month, Bushs racist 1988 Willie Horton spotthe low point of two highly divisive presidential runswas explicitly compared to a Trump campaign ad painting migrants as bloodthirsty criminals. Likewise, the Brett Kavanaugh saga re-upped Bushs appointment of Clarence Thomas to the Supreme CourtBush stuck with Thomas, as Trump stuck with Kavanaugh, despite credible allegations of sexual misconduct against his nominee. And Bushs decision, as he prepared to leave office, to pardon defendants in the IranContra scandal to shield himself from further investigation chimes, at least in some small way, with Trumps reaction to the Mueller probe: just last week, Trump refused to rule out a pardon for Paul Manafort.

None of this is to diminish Bushs many achievements, nor is it to say he was similar to Trump: he was not. But the focus on Bushs comparatively civil styleto the exclusion of almost everything elsemade much coverage of his death feel hagiographic. Even mild negativity was given a wide berth. Bizarrely, the AP said yesterday that it deleted a tweet and revised a story on Bushs death because the tweet and the opening of the story referenced his 1992 electoral defeat and omitted his WWII service. (Its initial tweet had attracted right-wing ire online.)

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As the cliche goes, journalism is the first rough draft of history. In a clear-eyed assessment for Politico on Saturday, historian David Greenberg wrote that in media coverage, respect for the dead must coexist with respect for the historical record. Over the weekend, many obituaries and follow-up stories missed the opportunity to judge Bushs presidency by those standards, rather than the diminished stature of the White Houses current occupant.

Below, more on the life and death of George H.W. Bush:



Other notable stories:

ICYMI: Remembering John McCain and his relationship with the press

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Jon Allsop is a freelance journalist whose work has appeared in the New York Review of Books, Foreign Policy, and The Nation, among other outlets. He writes CJRs newsletter The Media Today. Find him on Twitter @Jon_Allsop.Nineteen people who survived a shooting last year at a Little Rock, Ark., nightclub filed a lawsuit Wednesday against the clubs owners, alleging negligence in security and in staff training.

At a press conference, two survivors and their lawyers said they believed Herman Lewis, who managed the Power Ultra Lounge, and the property owners should have taken more steps to protect patrons before the shooting.

In July 2017, 25 people were shot and three others injured when dozens of rounds were fired during a performance by Tennessee rapper Finese2Tymes, whose real name is Ricky Hampton. At least three suspects have been arrested in the shooting.

The lawsuit alleged Lewis and the property owners should have had tighter security and better crowd control, and said the club was negligent in allowing patrons to bring in guns. The suit also said staff should have been trained to handle the shooting through proper emergency drills.

Victims said they suffered various physical injuries and emotional trauma. Tasheara Slocum, who said she was shot in the side, hoped that the lawsuit would send a message to businesses that they should do everything possible to protect their customers.

Another survivor, Tyrone Jackson, and his younger brother were at the club to perform earlier in the night and said the crowd seemed rowdier than usual. Jackson said he was not physically injured but claimed he suffered emotional trauma from the shooting.

He also said a history of violence in and around the club should have better prepared the owners and staff.

While luckily no one was killed at the Power Ultra Lounge that terrible night, I believe Mr. Lewis and anyone else involved in owning and operating of the club should be held accountable for what happened that night, Jackson said.

Solomon Radner, one of the lawyers representing the victims, said the events promotional material promoted violence. Specifically, he said, a poster for Hamptons performance featured a man pointing what appeared to be a gun at the camera.

This was something that was promoted for violence, Radner said. If youre going to do that, you have to provide adequate security.

Hampton and his bodyguard, Kentrell Gwynn, have both pleaded guilty to unrelated federal charges. Gwynn also face charges from the state for the shooting. Hampton is scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 6, while Gwynns sentencing date has not been set.

Two previous lawsuits from survivors have been filed against Lewis and the property owner, 6th and Center LLC, though one was dropped last October. The plaintiff in that lawsuit is now one of the 19 people currently suing Lewis, while the other lawsuit remains separate and ongoing.

Neither Lewis nor his lawyer could be reached for comment.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.After fleeing a wildfire that came dangerously close to his Northern California home earlier this month, Dale Word evacuated again when flash floods inundated roads and trapped motorists and residents.

Swift water teams used boats to make rescues at three homes and officials told people in about 100 vehicles to stay in place. The rain receded late Thursday afternoon, leaving a mess of sticky mud and debris. Downed trees and power poles littered the landscape.

Word, a firmware engineer, waded through thigh-high water to higher ground in his semi-rural Chico neighborhood  stunned by the disasters that have hit Butte County. The recent fire came within several hundred feet of his home, which is about 140 miles (225 kilometers) northeast of San Francisco.

Everywhere you go youre talking to people who have lost everything and its just tragic, Word said. He jokingly added, It feels like the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are going to come riding over the hill any day now.

Thursdays storm brought 11/2 inches (3.8 centimeters) of rain in an hour, said the National Weather Service.

The sheriffs department ordered evacuations but could not say how many people were affected. The water rescues were in Chico, where many of the fire evacuees from Paradise are staying.

Paradise has been under mandatory evacuation orders for nearly three weeks since the firestorm killed at least 88 people and destroyed nearly 14,000 homes.

Residents could begin returning early next week, but only if the wet weather doesnt hinder efforts to clear roads and restore power, Sheriff Kory Honea said Wednesday.

In Southern California, authorities ordered evacuations in a small Malibu community within a wildfire burn zone where a mudslide blocked streets amid the heavy rains. No major damage was reported by the time flood warnings and watches expired.

The storm knocked out power and flooded roadways across greater Los Angeles. Numerous traffic accidents occurred on slick freeways and most vehicles traveling in the mountains were ordered to put chains on their tires. Mud and rock slides also closed two mountain highways.

Residents were urged to voluntarily evacuate a string of neighborhoods about 45 miles (70 kilometers) southeast of Los Angeles along a flank of the Santa Ana Mountains where a fire burned thousands of acres last summer. Mandatory evacuations were ordered for parts of the city of Lake Elsinore beneath charred hillsides where there were heavy debris flows but no significant damage.

West of Los Angeles, no major problems were reported after rain fell heavily at times in vast areas burned by fires this month and last December  an area where there are strong memories of a January downpour that unleashed devastating debris flows through the community of Montecito that killed 21 people and left two missing.

On the coast near Big Sur, the California Department of Transportation closed a 12-mile (19-kilometer) stretch of Highway 1 because of potential instability.

The weather service also issued a backcountry avalanche warning for most of the central Sierra, including the Lake Tahoe area.

(Associated Press writers Janie Har, Jocelyn Gecker and Juliet Linderman in San Francisco, Christopher Weber and John Antczak in Los Angeles, and Scott Sonner in Reno, Nevada contributed to this report.)

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.CLEVELAND, Ohio  One out of every seven young adults in Cuyahoga County is unemployed, not in school and not on a path to make themselves productive, according to a new report by the Center for Community Solutions in Cleveland.

Thats bad for them and bad for the community: These young people, ages 16 to 24, cost the local economy about $927 million per year.

Research by the Center for Community Solutions estimates there are 21,000 young people in this category in Cuyahoga. It calls them disengaged youth because theyre not employed either full time or part time, and arent in high school or any kind of college or trade school.

Some of them come from upper-income families in the suburbs, but most disengaged youth come from impoverished neighborhoods, attended low-performing schools, have faced challenging family circumstances and may have few positive experiences with education and social service systems, the report said.

Theres a cycle and theyre in it and they dont have anyone to guide them out of it, said Craig Dorn, president and CEO of Youth Opportunities Unlimited in Cleveland, a partner in the report.

Dorn wants the report to be a wake-up call for Northeast Ohio. Theres definitely a problem, he said. And theyre costing society too much money.

With each year that goes by, an unemployed/unengaged young person costs the community $44,200 in missed wages, lost tax revenue and an increased likelihood the person will need public assistance or social services. This population of young people is also more likely to commit crimes and have health issues.

The most significant thing to me is how much our economy is missing out, said Emily Campbell, associate director at Community Solutions.

Dorn, of Youth Opportunities Unlimited, wants people to look in their circles of relatives or friends or neighbors and see whether there are young people who fit in this category of being unemployed and not in school. He said the best thing these youths could do is to visit the Young Adult Resource Center at 1910 Carnegie Ave. in Cleveland. The center is staffed with representatives from Youth Opportunities Unlimited, Towards Employment and other employment offices to help get people on a path to employment. The center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Appointments arent necessary but can made by calling 216-777-8222.

The report found that 60 percent of disengaged youths live in poverty. And black and Hispanic youths make up a disproportionate percentage of disengaged youths. They comprised 43 percent of the youth population in Cuyahoga County from 2012 to 2016, but made up 66 percent of disengaged youths. This disparity could perpetuate generational poverty, lower educational attainment and presents challenges for wealth creation, the report said.

Researchers interviewed 52 young people in this group. Overall, they wanted to get jobs and better themselves, but have obstacles: they may lack money for training or college; they may not have a car; or they may have children and not have access to affordable child care.

Understand that its not just laziness, Campbell said. Every single person has aspirations.

While the report itself is alarming, the gravity is compounded because it finds that the problem of disengaged youth is a bigger problem in Greater Cleveland than in many comparable communities. Researchers looked at the city and suburbs of Cincinnati, Dayton, Pittsburgh, Detroit and Baltimore. Among these, only Detroits Wayne County had a higher percentage of disengaged youth than Cuyahoga County.

Besides the Center for Community Solutions, the report was sponsored by Towards Employment in Cleveland, which focuses on workforce development; and Youth Opportunities Unlimited, a nonprofit workforce development organization in Cleveland that serves young people ages 14 to 24 in Cuyahoga, Lorain, and Lake counties.

People in the community who are interested in supporting the nonprofits can do so by contributing time or money. Dorn said the effort welcomes volunteers who can help young people with resumes or practice interviews. To contact Youth Opportunities Unlimited, call (216) 566-5445 or go to http://www.youthopportunities.org.CHAGRIN FALLS, Ohio -- Theft, Shopping Center: Police are looking for three people who stole six coats -- valued at a total of $3,295 -- at 7:43 p.m. Nov. 23 from Geiger Ski and Sport Haus. Videotape of the theft was obtained.

Found property, North Main Street: A Kentucky driver's license was found and turned over to police at 12:47 p.m. Nov. 25. Officers have been unable to contact the owner.

Disorderly conduct, Philomethian Street: An argument at 1:26 p.m. Nov. 19 between two construction workers at the Intermediate School resulted in one damaging the truck window of the other. Neither the Eastlake man, 40, nor the Mentor man, 49, wanted to press charges.

Civil matter, East Washington Street: An equipment rental company contacted police Nov. 19 when seismograph equipment was not returned per the agreement. Police contacted the person who leased the equipment, and was told it would be shipped back from Maine. UPS tracking information was provided.

Fraud, South Main Street: A business reported Nov. 20 that it had received a fake $100 bill. The business was checking its appointment list to try to determine where it came from.

Noise complaint, Carriage Park Drive: When responding to a complaint at 12:25 a.m. Nov. 21, officers encountered an open apartment door and the smell of marijuana. Two men, both 21 and of Chagrin Falls, were cited for drug possession.CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A security guard at Clevelands East Tech High School has been indicted on charges that accuse him of sexually assaulting a student.

Derrick Dugger, 29, is charged with two counts of rape, two counts of sexual battery and one count of importuning in an indictment handed up Friday.

He is being held in the Cuyahoga County Jail on $300,000 bond. His arraignment is set for Wednesday.

Dugger is accused of forcing a 15-year-old girl to perform oral sex on him, court records say. The incident did not happen at the school, records say.

Police also say Dugger sent several inappropriate messages to multiple students via social media, including photos of his genitals, records say.

A Cleveland police sex crimes detective wrote in court filings that several other students have reached out to the school district to accuse Dugger of sexually assaulting them, and that its anticipated that more will come forward, according to court records.

The district placed Dugger on unpaid administrative leave pending the outcome of the criminal case, CMSD spokeswoman Roseann Canfora said.

To comment on this story, please visit Mondays crime and courts comments page.One man was hurt Sunday afternoon after a shooting that warranted a SWAT team to respond to and clear the scene in Euclid.

Euclid patrol officers responded about 3:10 p.m. to a residence on the 20400 block of Lakeshore Boulevard, Euclid police Sgt. Donna Holden told cleveland.com.

Police scanner traffic indicated that officers discovered a blood trail into the home.

PD was called at 15:11 by persons reporting a sound of shots fired. A blood trail was found in the driveway and bloody handprints on the door to the house. One victim was found at an area hospital. https://t.co/RYhbjdhtGM  NE Ohio Scanner (@NEO_Scan) December 2, 2018

A male shooting victim suffered a gunshot wound to his arm, Holden said. He was treated and released from an area hospital.

The EDGE SWAT team, comprised of officers from six East Side suburbs, assisted patrol officers to clear the house, Holden said. No additional victims were found inside.

The man who was shot was taken into custody after he was released from the hospital, Holden said. He has not been charged with a crime Sunday night.

No further suspects have been identified, police said.

Police did not provide any additional details regarding the shooting Sunday evening. This post will be updated if further information becomes available.

If youd like to comment on this post, please visit the cleveland.com crime and courts comments section.YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio -- Youngstown State University officials lifted a lockdown on the campus Monday, shortly after a man seen with a gun turned himself in to authorities.

No injuries were reported in the incident, which began after someone reported seeing a man with a gun near a recreation center, a university spokesperson said.

Classes will resume at 3 p.m., the university said on social media.

During the lockdown, university officials asked anyone on campus to shelter in place and lock all exterior and office doors.

The campus lockdown has been lifted. The suspect has turned himself in and is in custody. Classes will resume at 3:00 PM. No injuries reported. Thank you for your cooperation.  Youngstown State University (@youngstownstate) December 3, 2018

To comment on this story, visit Mondays crime and courts comments page.CLEVELAND, Ohio  Classic rocker Todd Rundgren has announced two back-to-back Cleveland shows in May 2019.

Rundgren, a solo artist that used to be a member of the band Utopia, has released the songs I Saw The Light and Hello Its Me. As a solo artist, Rundgren has put out 21 albums, including 2017s White Knight.

Hes produced albums like Meatloafs Bat Out Of Hell, Grand Funk Railroads Were An American Band and New York Dolls self-titled album.

Rundgren could possibly also be welcomed into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame; Rundgren is currently up for nomination for the Rock Hall Class of 2019. Hes proven to be popular in the Hall of Fames fan vote  hes ranked third in the fan vote as of Dec. 3, with 330,476 votes on the website, putting him behind just Def Leppard (500,755 votes) and Stevie Nicks (393,073 votes).

Rundgren will perform on May 5 and 6 at the Ohio Theatre at Playhouse Square as a part of his The Individualist world tour. The Individualist a Todd Rundgren album that came out in October of 1995.

Tickets will go on sale on Dec. 10 at 10 a.m. You can find more information at Live Nations website.BOWLING GREEN, Ohio  Bowling Green State University police are seeking information after the family of a student from Michigan says he has not been heard from in about two weeks.

Police say Jacob Bromm, a freshman from Troy, Michigan, has not been in contact with friends or family since Nov. 20, according to a post on the universitys Facebook page.

Bromm, a resident of Kohl Hall on the BGSU campus, had told family members he was not coming home for Thanksgiving. He reportedly told friends he was taking a flight out west and indicated he planned on using an Uber to get a ride to the airport.

Cliff Bromm, the students father, tells the Detroit News his son did not tell him and his wife that he was planning a trip.

Why would he take off? Cliff Bromm tells the News. He had $2 in his bank account. It doesnt make sense.

Police say there are no indications of foul play after investigating and reviewing security video.

The BGSU Facebook post requests anyone with information on Jacob Bromm call university police at 419-372-2346.

If youd like to comment on this post, please visit the cleveland.com crime and courts comments section.SHEFFIELD TOWNSHIP, Ohio  A woman was struck and killed by a vehicle Sunday night while trying to cross a highway, according to the State Highway Patrol.

Roslyn Arroyo, 49, of Lorain, was pronounced dead at University Hospital of Elyria.

A news release from the patrol says Arroyo was walking east along Ohio 254 and tried to cross Ohio 57 when she was hit by an unknown white vehicle traveling north.

The vehicle did not stop and continued north, troopers say.

Anyone with information can contact the Elyria Highway Patrol post at 440-365-5045.

If youd like to comment on this post, please visit the cleveland.com crime and courts comments section.CLEVELAND, Ohio  One of the things you often here in response to criticism over who gets inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is that the powers that be are trying to put on a show.

Ultimately, the annual Induction Ceremony is a concert that has to be sold to TV and draw ratings. If that is truly the case, things were right there for the taking in 2008. Only, they didnt take it.

Our Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Remixed series looks back on every year of Inductions, fixing mistakes and re-evaluating resumes.

[See previous remixed classes: 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007]

The 2008 Inductions offered up four potential first ballot hall of famers. In reality, the Rock Hall chose just one. We went with all four for our Remixed Class of 2008:

Beastie Boys

Janet Jackson

KISS

Madonna

Metallica

Gene Vincent and His Blue Caps*

Fiction vs. Reality: The actual Class of 2008 featured just one first-ballot hall of famer in Madonna. No complaints with the biggest female pop star of all time. But there were three other acts who became eligible that, in retrospect, feel like no-brainers.

Voters waited until 2012 to induct the Beastie Boys (Apparently, artists like The Hollies, ABBA, Jimmy Cliff and Jeff Beck were more worthy). Despite being eligible for the 2008 ceremony, Metallica wasnt nominated until 2009. And, of course, the metal icons walked right in.

Janet Jackson didnt earn her first nomination until 2016, despite being every bit Madonnas equal. Even if you think Jackson isnt quite on Madonnas level, could you really argue she hasnt had a better career than the other acts inducted in 2008? (More on that in a second).

Instead, the Rock Hall inducted Leonard Cohen, the Dave Clark Five, John Mellencamp and the Ventures. We dont have a problem with Cohen or Mellencamp, two worthy artists that well consider at later dates.

What is the legacy of the Dave Clark Five? A poor mans version of the Beatles whose peak run lasted barely two years and is now mostly remembered for Glad All Over (a song few people under the age of 50 care about). Yes, thats hart. Deal with it.

The Ventures are a different story. They were a highly influential surf-rock act. Yet, its a genre where artists find themselves on the bubble (aside from The Beach Boys). Personally, wed take Dick Dale and Jack & Dean over The Ventures (Though, its very close). Were not going to condemn anyone happy the group was inducted in 2008.

Our picks for the Class of 2008 are huge names. And we make that even bigger with the addition of KISS. We get it -- Some people view KISS as a glorified merchandising commodity set to music.

But sometimes you have to give in to something so big with so many fans that its hard to imagine rock and roll without it. And, if were being fair, KISS is one of the great live bands in rock history thats influenced about a dozen other Rock Hall worthy acts.

Biggest debate: Perhaps more than any other artists, Jackson finds herself at the center of the debate over what is rock and roll and what genres should be eligible for induction.

Fortunately, we dont care about that. Weve accepted the Rock Halls scope of what eligible based on who has already been nominated and inducted. After all, similar artists like Madonna and Michael Jackson are already in.

When measuring Janet Jackson under those parameters, youre left with one of the greatest careers in popular music history.

More records sold than Chicago, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, David Bowie, Tina Turner, Donna Summer, The Beach Boys and The Who. More than 25 top-10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including 10 No.1s. Jackson ranks as the seventh best artist in the history of that chart (according to Billboard), a spot ahead of her brother.

Janet Jackson has two albums on Rolling Stones 500 Greatest Albums of All Time" and No.1 albums in three decades, while being one of the greatest touring artists of her generation. Her influence stretches to everyone from Beyonce and Mariah Carey to Usher and Justin Timberlake.

We could go on, but we think you get the point.

*Legends Committee: Gene Vincent was inducted into the Rock Hall in 1998 (His Blue Caps were added later). We dont get around to him until 10 years later, as our latest Legends Committee selection.

We may be underestimating Vincent, who is one of the most important rockabilly artists of all time. In fact, one look at Vincent (and a listen to his songs, specifically his hit Be-Bob-A-Lula) and its easy to see his impact on rock and rolls style from the mid 1950s on.

Whats next: Can 2009 measure up to our Class of 2008?COLUMBUS, Ohio  Ohios medical marijuana Patient and Caregiver Registry went live Monday, as state officials anticipate product will soon be for sale in dispensaries.

The registry is for physicians who have state approval to recommend medical marijuana for patients with any of 21 qualifying ailments, such as cancer, Multiple sclerosis or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Physicians enter patient or caregiver information into the registry. Then the registry sends an email to the patient or caregiver, prompting them to log in, complete their profile and pay for a medical marijuana e-card.

The cost of an annual registration is $50 for patients and $25 for caregivers, although veterans and low-income people may be eligible for fee reductions.

Patients, except for those seeking a fee reduction, will immediately receive a medical marijuana e-card once theyve completed the information online. The card will allow them to purchase product at dispensaries.

The patient card will happen as soon as the payment is made," said Tessie Pollock, spokeswoman for the Ohio State Medical Board, one of the state agencies involved in the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program.

Doctors can recommend medical marijuana in 90-day increments, with three refills, meaning a card can be valid 360 days. Physicians can establish requirements around the patients usage, such as follow-up visits to check on the patients health as theyre using the drug.

Details, such as what patients need to bring to the doctor and other parts of the process can be found in this video.

No dispensaries have actually received certificates of operation to open their doors to patients yet, according to the Ohio Pharmacy Board, which regulates the dispensaries.

Pharmacy Board employees inspected one dispensary Cresco Labs Ohio LLC, in Wintersville in Jefferson County on Nov. 21. Its unclear whether the company failed the inspection or what occurred.

Our compliance team is still working through their assessment with Cresco, said Grant Miller of the Ohio Board of Pharmacy. No further visits have yet been scheduled.

Throughout the state, small and large cultivators are harvesting product -- curing and drying the plants for patient use.

Medical marijuana cannot be smoked, though state law says it can be vaped, used as an oil, tincture and edible.

Ohios medical marijuana program was supposed to be fully operational Sept. 8.CLEVELAND, Ohio  Frank LaRose, a Republican state senator who was elected Ohios Secretary of State in November, has announced his leadership team for when he takes office in January.

LaRose announced the hirings of seven top aides on Monday  five of whom have ties to outgoing Republican Gov. John Kasich.

LaRoses new chief of staff will be Merle Madrid, a political operative who spent five years working in Kasichs administration. Madrid, who most recently worked as a lobbyist for UnitedHealth, also oversaw LaRoses official transition into office.

His director of operations will be Kim Burns, a lawyer who worked in the governors office as Kasichs director of cabinet affairs.

His director of external affairs will be Grant Shaffer, a Republican operative who worked in New Hampshire in 2016 for New Day for America, a Super PAC that supported Kasichs bid for president that year. (LaRose himself campaigned for Kasich in New Hampshire in 2016 too.)

His communications director will be Jon Keeling, who took over as the governors offices press secretary in 2017 after previously working in lower-profile jobs within the Kasich administration. Keeling also is an alum of Kasichs presidential campaign.

And his chief legal counsel will be Patrick Piccini, who currently holds the same job in Kasichs Ohio Department of Transportation.

In an interview, LaRose said he strived to staff his office with top-level political talent who share his vision for state government. It just so happens that many of those people come from Team Kasich, he said.

These folks are folks that are the best at what they do, and it should come as no surprise that some of the most talented folks in state government work at the highest levels, which currently is Gov. Kasichs administration, LaRose said.

LaRose on Monday also announced Amanda Grandjean, an attorney with Bricker & Eckler, will serve as his director of elections. Allison DeSantis, outgoing Secretary of State Jon Husteds director of business services, will hold the same job in LaRoses administration.

LaRose, a state senator whos represented a district includes Wayne County, as well as parts of Canton and Akron suburbs since 2011, defeated Democratic State Rep. Kathleen Clyde in the November election.

LaRose, 39, is considered a political up-and-comer within Republican state circles. The Ohio Secretary of State is responsible for overseeing state elections and maintaining certain state business filings.COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Abortion rights advocates will gather Tuesday at the Ohio Statehouse to protest the proposed Heartbeat Bill -- which largely would ban abortion once a fetal heartbeat is detected -- as an Ohio Senate committee takes up the legislation.

The Ohio House passed the bill in November.

A fetal heartbeat can be detected as early as six weeks into a pregnancy, in some cases, before a woman knows she is pregnant. The bill would ban abortion once an ultrasound picked up a heartbeat, except to prevent the mother from dying or being seriously impaired.

The statehouse sent a similar bill to Gov. John Kasich in 2016, but the governor vetoed the legislation. Kasich believed the measure would almost certainly be halted in court, as has been the case with other heartbeat bills passed in Arkansas, North Dakota and Iowa. Kasich did sign separate legislation banning abortions after 20 weeks.

But unlike the 2016 bill, the House now has the 60 votes needed to override Kasichs veto, if it comes to that.

NARAL Pro Choice Ohio believes the bill would would effectively outlaw abortion and criminalize physicians," according to a news release.

If the bill becomes law, Ohio would become the fourth state to ban abortion once a fetal heartbeat is detected.

The protest is set to begin at noon Tuesday. Speakers include: Rabbi Jessica Shimberg, Sarah Huchinson Ratcliffe, Catholics for Choice and members of the Ohio Senate and House.CLEVELAND, Ohio  Cleveland Fox affiliate WJW Channel 8 is one of 42 Tribune Media stations that the Nexstar Media Group is purchasing in a deal valued at $6.4 billion. If approved by government regulatory agencies, the acquisition announced Monday will make the Texas-based Nexstar the countrys largest owner of TV stations.

Nexstar, which has gradually built a media empire by purchasing small groups of stations, made a big statement by ponying up $4.1 billion in cash to buy the Chicago-based Tribune Media Group stations. Tribune has owned Channel 8 since 2013.

The $6.4 billion figure includes the assumption of Tribune Media debt. The deal will bring Nexstars total to 216 stations in 118 markets, reaching 39 percent of U.S. television households. It also will give Nexstar stations in eight of the nations top-10 TV markets, including New York, Los Angeles and Chicago.

But Nexstar still is a long way off from having the keys to the much-bought-and-sold Channel 8. The deal is so big, it will take many months to be finalized.

Although already approved by the boards of both companies, the purchase needs to be subjected to complex and rigorous examination by the Federal Communications Commission. And this is where the plot easily could thicken regarding Channel 8.

To win FCC approval, Nexstar will need to sell several stations in markets where they now will have multiple ownership. Because Tribune owned many Fox affiliate stations, Nexstar now will own many Fox affiliate stations, and the Fox Television Stations group has made no secret that it will make a strong bid for seven of those stations: KCPQ in Seattle; WSFL in Miami; KDVR in Denver; KTXL in Sacramento, California; KSWB in San Diego; KSTU in San Diego; and WJW.

So industry analysts are fully expecting Fox Television to pressure Nexstar to sell those seven stations. Sources familiar with ongoing plans and negotiations still expect Fox Television Stations, which once owned Channel 8, to again be in possession of the Cleveland station, possibly by the end of next year or early 2020.

Why would Nexstar be inclined to accept a Fox offer? Well, Fox does have an effective bargaining chip.

It has been widely reported that Fox, wanting leverage for purchasing these stations, only made one-year affiliation deals with them. Affiliation deals with local stations typically run for five years or longer, so this certainly got the industrys attention.

This means that Fox could threaten to pull the affiliations, suggesting it would be wiser to sell the stations to, you guessed it, Fox.

But its a volatile industry and anything can happen, as recent events have so forcefully demonstrated.

Nexstar, after all, is trying to succeed where the Maryland-based Sinclair Broadcast Group failed so spectacularly. Sinclair announced in May 2017 that it would be purchasing the Tribune stations for $3.9 billion. Approval of the purchase was expected no later than February, but the process stalled at the FCC, despite the endorsement and urging of President Donald Trump.

Some of the delays undoubtedly were caused by what became an increasingly contentious debate on the merits of the sale. Opponents of the sale argued that Sinclair forces local stations to air must-run content with a conservative, pro-Trump bias.

In what was widely viewed as a move to win FCC approval, Sinclair executives announced in May that they would be selling 23 stations in 18 markets. The plan filed as additional paperwork to the FCC called for Sinclair to sell stations in such markets as Dallas, Houston, Seattle and Salt Lake City.

The 23 stations to be sold included 14 of the 43 Tribune stations. Seven of those stations, including Channel 8, were to be sold to Fox. The acquisition would have increased Fox Television Stations' presence to 19 of the top-20 television markets in the United States.

And that's where things stood, shakily, until, suddenly and unexpectedly, everything collapsed.

Catching most industry watchers and President Trump off-guard in July, the FCC unanimously ruled not to approve the merger. The FCC alleged that Sinclair had misled the agency, referring the case to an administrative law judge.

Nexstar is expected to have a better fix on how to win FCC approval. If so, the acquisition should be approved in the third quarter of 2019.

Nexstar has long viewed the acquisition of Tribune Media as a strategically, financially and operationally compelling opportunity that brings immediate value to shareholders of both companies, Perry Sook, Nexstars chairman, president and CEO, said in a statement released Monday by the company. We have thoughtfully structured the transaction in a manner that positions the combined entity to better compete in todays rapidly transforming industry landscape and better serve the local communities, consumers and businesses where we operate.

No television station in the Cleveland market has been bought and sold more than Channel 8, which signed on the air in December 1949. Storer Broadcasting, which owned the then-CBS affiliate since 1954, was bought out by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts in 1985. KKR sold it to Gillett Communications in 1987, with SCI Television spun off to take over the stations following a Gillett bankruptcy.

New World Communications purchased it in 1993. Fox bought New World, and Channel 8, in 1997, selling the Cleveland station to Local TV in 2008. Local TV sold it to Tribune in 2013.

Now Nexstar looks to be holding the keys, but for how long?Where does the late George H.W. Bush rank in the history of the American presidency? Historical judgments are best left to historians who can appraise a president most accurately, often decades after his death.

There is a convincing case to be made, however, that Bush was one of the greatest global leaders of all our presidents.

I admit to a bias, as I worked for him as an advisor on Soviet affairs at the White House's National Security Council for the last 2 years of his presidency. Yet his achievements on the world stage were the most important of any president during the last half century. In just one term in office, from 1989 to 1993, he was the indispensable leader in ending the Cold War peacefully as the Soviet Union collapsed and 15 new states took its place in December 1991. Bush was the major figure in unifying Germany in the NATO alliance following the fall of the Berlin Wall.

He also organized an extraordinary global coalition to defeat Saddam Hussein in the 1990-91 Gulf War. He then presided over the creation of the modern Middle East peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians later that year. And we shouldn't forget that his administration conceived of the North American Free Trade Agreement and handed it over to President Bill Clinton, who secured congressional approval early in his presidency.

On their own, each of these achievements would be considered consequential for any president. Together, they represent an extraordinary collection of successes that made America and the world more stable and peaceful.

It wasn't a given, however, that the Cold War would end peacefully. In fact, we worried inside the U.S. government about all sorts of crises that might unfold as the Soviet Union neared its eventual collapse on Christmas Day 1991. A cabal of KGB and Red Army leaders actually overthrew Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev for two suspenseful days in August of that year.

We worried there might be another challenge to Gorbachev and Russian Republic President Boris Yeltsin again that autumn which could provoke conflict inside the country or seek to obstruct the freedom of the USSR's former satellites in Eastern Europe. We were also acutely concerned that the USSR's vast collection of nuclear weapons and nuclear material might fall into the hands of a breakaway warlord across that vast country or into the hands of a criminal network.

Bush's singular achievement was in creating a relationship of trust with both Gorbachev and Yeltsin. That reassured them the U.S. would not seek to take advantage in the Cold War's last months.

It was also not a given that West and East Germany would unify peacefully as communism collapsed after the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989. British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and French President Francois Mitterrand, both with clear memories of the Second World War, were initially skeptical as they pondered the reappearance of a powerful German state in the center of Europe. Some German leaders advocated a reunited neutral Germany between Russia and the West.

Bush knew both of those scenarios would be destabilizing. He was looking to the future and so he swung his support behind German Chancellor Helmut Kohl's aim for a united German nation  but one embedded in the NATO alliance.

It was also not a given that a U.S.-led coalition would be able to defeat Saddam Hussein's army without major U.S. and allied casualties. Bush worked the phone for months to persuade an unprecedented collection of Arab, European, Asian and North American countries to pull together over 700,000 allied forces under U.S. and Saudi leadership. Saddam was driven from Kuwait and defeated with a surprisingly low level of allied casualties.Trump and Xi hit pause

The moves in Asia came after Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump agreed to a momentary pause on escalating the ongoing trade war between the two economic powerhouses. "This is probably the best case scenario that markets were hoping for from the meeting of Trump and Xi and we've seen that anticipated 'risk on' rally this morning," said Rakuten Securities Australia in a morning note. They did, however, add that "analysts are already looking at the details and it doesn't take long for doubts to come through on the strength of the agreement." "A simple look at the two press statements from either side shows some quite glaring differences of opinion and this could lead to a relatively short lived lift in investor confidence," said the note. A White House statement about the leaders' dinner at the G-20 summit in Argentina said Xi and Trump discussed a range of nettlesome issues  among them the trade dispute that has left over $200 billion worth of goods hanging in the balance. "President Trump has agreed that on January 1, 2019, he will leave the tariffs on $200 billion worth of product at the 10 percent rate, and not raise it to 25 percent at this time," the statement read. Over the next 90 days, American and Chinese officials will continue to negotiate lingering disagreements on technology transfer, intellectual property and agriculture. "The avoidance of a 25 percent tax is the good news, so that's really what the markets (are) reacting to," David Sokulsky, CEO and CIO of the Concentrated Leaders Fund, told CNBC's "Street Signs" on Monday. "The markets (have) been very concerned that these trade wars would escalate even more into a potential Cold War and what this does, it takes that significant risk, it doesn't eliminate it, but it certainly reduces it," Sokulsky said. On the back of the developments between the U.S. and China, Dow Jones Industrial Average futures jumped 400 points shortly after the start of trading at 6 p.m. in New York on Sunday. As of 2:07 a.m. ET Monday, futures pointed to an implied gain of 477.54 at the open for the Dow.

Oil prices surge after November slump

Oil prices saw strong gains Monday afternoon during Asian trading hours, but pared some of their earlier gains on the back of Qatar announcing its plans to pull out of OPEC days before an anticipated meeting between the cartel and its allies. The international benchmark Brent surged 4.42 percent to $62.09 per barrel. U.S. crude futures leaped 4.81 percent to $53.38 per barrel after earlier seeing gains of more than 5 percent. The crude markets saw their worst month in a decade during November, amid concerns of oversupply and global politics. West Texas Intermediate, or U.S. crude, lost 21 percent in November, tumbling to its lowest level in a year and logging its worst performance since October 2008.

CurrenciesFor many, an MBA seems like a surefire route to a high-powered career with a hefty pay packet to match. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), 89 percent of recent business school graduates secured full-time employment this year. The majority of them were in traditional industries such as services (24 percent), finance and accounting (14 percent) and consulting (13 percent), according to the survey. Almost half of those jobs offered salaries of $125,000 or more, according to a separate study.

Commencement ceremonies at the Harvard Business School campus in front of Baker Library, in Boston, MA. Rick Friedman | Corbis | Getty Images

But that could be where many grads are going wrong, according to Steven Lam, co-founder and CEO of billion-dollar start-up GoGoVan, an on-demand van-hailing app which aims to solve logistical problems in big Asian cities. The 32-year-old, who graduated from the University of California-Berkeley's Haas School of Business, said too many students fall into tried and tested MBA careers  namely finance, accounting and consulting  when they could instead use their skills to shake up the business world. "There are a lot of things out there," Lam told CNBC Make It. "You don't need to be fixated on accounting or finance."

Around the world theres thousands and thousands of companies ... The greatest ones are not accounting firms, financial firms or consulting firms. Steven Lam co-founder and CEO of GoGoVan

It's a realization he reached on his first day at the prestigious business school. Having worked hard to earn his place after dropping out of high school in his native Hong Kong, Lam might have followed a similar route if it weren't for a business ethics class from Professor Alan Ross. "He said: 'We are here to give you guys education. But education means building society, the world, in a lot of different angles,'" Lam recalled the professor saying. By that, Lam said, Ross wanted to open students' eyes to the idea that an MBA can be put toward other avenues that address some of society's biggest issues. According to GMAC's research, in 2018, just 11 percent of MBA grads went into governmental or nonprofit roles, while 6 percent went into healthcare. "That was the first class and I remember it so well," said Lam. "So when I graduated I just wanted to do something meaningful."

For his part, Lam went on to build a multinational on-demand logistics platform, which provides delivery services across six countries in Asia. The company directly employs 2,000 people and supports a network of 8 million drivers. But, he said, working for a major company can also provide a real opportunity to drive forward industry practices and society more generally. "Around the world, there's thousands and thousands of companies out there. The greatest ones are not accounting firms, financial firms or consulting firms. The greatest firms are called Fortune 500. Each of them sell different kinds of stuff, have different types of business," said Lam, citing the likes of Caterpillar, Walmart, Apple and Google.

The world has thousands of problems  poverty, environment  things that need good people, smart students to help to solve. Steven Lam co-founder and CEO of GoGoVanA scientist mixes chemicals inside the lab at the GlaxoSmithKline Plc facility in Collegeville, Pennsylvania.

Tesaro shares surged 58 percent Monday after GlaxoSmithKline agreed to buy the cancer treatment company for $75 per share, or about $5.1 billion.

The deal represents a more than 60 percent premium over Tesaro's closing price on Friday of $46.38 per share. GlaxoSmithKline's stock was 8.2 percent lower Monday.

"The acquisition of Tesaro will strengthen our pharmaceuticals business by accelerating the build of our oncology pipeline and commercial footprint, along with providing access to new scientific capabilities," GlaxoSmithKline CEO Emma Walmsley said in a statement.

Bloomberg reported last month that Tesaro was exploring the opportunity of a sale. Tesaro's shares have suffered losses after it shared disappointing results on Nov. 9 for treatment of small-cell lung cancer.

The deal announced Monday was unanimously approved by Tesaro's board. GlaxoSmithKline expects the deal to close in the first quarter of 2019.It will still be "challenging" to find a compromise that all parties like, Goldman Sachs economist Alec Phillips wrote in a note to clients Sunday. While the truce between President Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping shows that each side is eager to reach an agreement, the brief cease-fire may not give trade representatives much time to discuss fundamental differences in economic policy, he added.

Wall Street traders may be exuberant Monday over the decision to pause the trade war between the U.S. and China, but economists across the marketplace aren't convinced the delay will lead to a permanent solution.

"While the Xi-Trump dinner has clearly improved the tone of the U.S.-China relationship for the time being, and we would expect an initial positive market reaction, the 'pause' prolongs the period of uncertainty around the eventual structure of trade relations between the two countries," Phillips wrote. "The specter of higher and broader U.S. tariffs remains, and the underlying issues clouding the trade relationship are deferred to further negotiations."

"With additional time to pursue negotiations, we think the chance of a comprehensive deal that involves rollback of tariffs is slightly higher than before, but still not our base case  perhaps a 20 percent probability over the next three months," the economist wrote.

Xi and Trump agreed over the weekend to hold off on slapping additional tariffs on each other's goods until March 1, as trade deliberations continue between both countries. In a White House readout of a dinner at the G-20 summit in Argentina, the two world leaders discussed a host of issues, including sanctions on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports to the U.S.

Here's a summary of what Wall Street's economists think of the temporary trade cease-fire.In June, insurance giant Aetna announced it will be leaving its home office in Hartford and moving to Manhattan after 164 years in the Nutmeg State.

A federal judge is considering halting the integration of CVS Health and Aetna  even though the two companies closed their merger last week.

Judge Richard Leon of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia in a hearing Monday floated the idea that CVS and Aetna keep their companies separate until he can determine whether the agreement the Justice Department struck with the companies clears anti-competitive concerns, according to a transcript of the hearing.

The judge pointed to concerns from groups, such as the American Medical Association, that have urged regulators to block the deal, saying the combination would reduce competition and leave consumers worse off.

The Justice Department in October said it would require CVS and Aetna to resolve overlap between their Medicare Part D plans in order to approve their roughly $70 billion deal. To satisfy these concerns, Aetna sold its business to WellCare Health Plans.

When the Justice Department strikes an agreement with companies, the deal must be cleared by a federal judge. This step has become somewhat procedural, with judges rarely questioning or opposing the terms. Companies typically don't wait for a judge to rule before closing a deal. So while it's not unusual for CVS to have already completed its acquisition of Aetna, it is unusual for a judge to consider keeping the companies from integrating while he completes his review.

"Unusual is almost too light of a word," said Andrea Agathoklis Murino, a partner in and co-chair of Goodwin's antitrust and competition law practice. "I can't recall another instance of a judge doing this."

Enacted in 1974, the Tunney Act slows the merger process and adds a layer of oversight in cases where the Justice Department negotiates with the companies seeking to combine. The law created a 60-day comment period and gave judges the final say on whether the agreements made are in the public's best interest.

Under the law, judges can conclude that the remedy proposed does not address anti-competitive concerns outlined in the complaint, said Jim Tierney, a partner in Orrick's antitrust practice. They can't, however, block the entire merger.

That means in the CVS-Aetna case specifically, Leon can decide whether the agreement the Justice Department struck with CVS and Aetna on their Medicare Part D businesses addresses anti-competitive issues, Tierney said. He can find the agreement sufficiently clears these concerns or not. If he finds it does not, the companies can renegotiate with the Justice Department or appeal the ruling.

Leon on Monday said he will order both parties to submit their arguments as to why he should not halt the integration pending his final ruling. He ordered the companies to submit filings by Dec. 14 and called another hearing for Dec. 18.

CVS and Aetna closed their roughly $70 billion deal on Nov. 28.

"CVS Health and Aetna are one company, and our focus is on transforming the consumer health experience," CVS said in a statement.

Correction: This story has been updated to clarify the judge's statement as to what order he will issue.Larry Kudlow, director of the U.S. National Economic Council, speaks to members of the media outside the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2018.

Trade negotiations between the U.S. and China will yield immediate results that will come even during the 90-day negotiation period ahead, National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow said Monday.

Tariffs on agriculture and energy products will be lowered while nontariff barriers on American ownership of companies in China also will come down, Kudlow told the Fox Business Network. In addition, Kudlow expects progress on technology transfers and intellectual property.

"Those things should kick in soon. We should see palpable change on the Chinese side immediately," he said. "I don't want to be too specific, but I think the generic answer is we will see changes very quickly."

The two sides announced over the weekend that they reached an agreement in which further tariff escalation would be halted during the 90-day negotiation period. Earlier in the day, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said he also is optimistic that a deal can be reached after months of tensions between Washington and Beijing.

President Donald Trump has set reducing the trade deficit with China and addressing issues over intellectual property and technology theft as a major priority. He has threatened to level tariffs against all Chinese imports, which have totaled $394.7 billion so far in 2018.

However, Kudlow stressed that the U.S. is eager to keep trade lively with China so long as an agreement is reached.

"If China opens its markets as they promised to do, and they're going to do it fast according to their promises, we will increase our exports substantially for the simple reason that whether it's agriculture or industry, the U.S. is the most competitive economy in the world today as a result of pro-growth measures taken by President Trump, with lower taxes and deregulation and so forth," he said.

Like Mnuchin, Kudlow said he wants to see quick resolution to the differences and "not let let this meander and wander on forever and ever."

"All that needs to start fast, and we will be tracking it," he said. "We will be tracking it, because we have had promises in the past from China and the promises have not worked out."

Later in the day, Kudlow again stressed the importance of getting something done quickly.

"It's all going to be very fast. A lot of this is going to hinge on the speed of the Chinese commitments," he said during a conference all with reporters.



But on Friday Microsoft briefly reclaimed the crown as the world's most valuable publicly traded company, a position it hadn't held since 2002. At close on Monday, it had slipped into third place behind a resurgent Apple and rising Amazon , but all three companies are essentially battling it out for the top spot. Whatever Microsoft's precise position, it's certainly relevant again.

Over the weekend, a 2007 blog post entitled "Microsoft is Dead" from Paul Graham, co-founder of Silicon Valley start-up factory Y Combinator, was recirculated online. Graham argued that while Microsoft was still making money, no one was scared of it anymore.

Amid the renewed discussion of his blog post, including on Y Combinator's Hacker News discussion forum, Graham weighed in on Twitter. He said founders he's spoken with still aren't seeing Microsoft as the competition, but he also acknowledged that the company is in better shape now.

tweet

There are several reasons for Microsoft's resurgence. And a lot of it can be traced back to early 2014, when the company replaced Steve Ballmer with the more soft-spoken Satya Nadella as CEO.

Under Ballmer, Microsoft stock largely went sideways. But under Nadella, who took over in early 2014, Microsoft stock has moved up and to the right, consistently outperforming the S&P 500. On Monday Microsoft stock was trading above $113 per share. It closed at $36.35 on the day Nadella became CEO.

Here are several specific ways that Nadella's leadership has helped Microsoft get back on top.

From Windows-first to Windows-and. The old Microsoft was obsessed with maintaining Windows at the center of all computing experiences, and that sometimes got in the way of what customers wanted.

Under Nadella, Microsoft set aside Windows for smartphones and brought greater capabilities to mobile operating systems controlled by Apple and Google. Its engineers contribute considerably to open-source software projects, and the company regularly makes its own software available under open-source licenses. While it is still the Windows company, it has embraced open-source Linux, in the cloud, in Windows 10 and even in the realm of patent enforcement.

Doubling down on cloud. With Nadella leading Microsoft has gone from being just another provider of public cloud resources to a real challenger to market leader Amazon Web Services.

While Microsoft was active in the cloud under Ballmer, Nadella has made cloud a higher strategic priority and changed compensation for salespeople to ensure that customers ended up using Microsoft's cloud services.

Nadella has drawn investors' attention to a metric Microsoft calls commercial cloud -- which includes the Azure cloud as well as business subscriptions to Office 365 productivity tools, commercial LinkedIn revenue and the Dynamics 365 business software -- by disclosing quarterly revenue for the category.

And he has held steady on capital spending, which has made it possible for the company to open many data centers around the world.

In an October note to clients, Griffin Securities analyst Jay Vleeschhouwer estimated that in Microsoft's 2019 fiscal year, Azure will produce $12.8 billion in revenue -- more than 10 percent of the revenue Vleeschhouwer expects from Microsoft as a whole for the fiscal year.

More open to partnering. While AWS continues to compete with some customers, Microsoft has tried to make itself out to be less of a threat and more of a collaborative partner.

At a Credit Suisse conference last week, Microsoft executive vice president Jason Zander was asked about what makes Microsoft's Azure cloud unique. Zander pointed to the breadth of Azure's portfolio and its ability to work alongside companies' existing on-premises data centers. He also talked about how Microsoft thinks about its own customers.

"One of the key things I always tell potential customers and partners, we're not your competition," he said. "We're here to help support you in a world where I think a lot of customers that I talk to -- they don't want to get technology on one hand from a provider and have that provider turn around and compete with them on another."

With Nadella at the helm, Microsoft has also been willing to put aside longstanding rivalries. It has formed partnerships with competitors like Dropbox, Red Hat, Salesforce and even Amazon.

Less reliant on personal information. As some business executives and public officials talked about regulating big technology companies, Microsoft has largely been insulated from the strongest criticism.

While Microsoft still has an online advertising business through its Bing search engine and MSN family of web sites, its core business is elsewhere. That means Microsoft has less obvious incentive to collect and store data about users.

Facebook, by contrast, has seen its stock fall considerably this year after numerous questions and scandals related to how it uses and secures information about its uses.

"I think that until Microsoft has been caught doing something really bad with data, they have a huge advantage," early Facebook and Google investor Roger McNamee said on CNBC earlier this year.Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin expressed optimism about a trade pact with China, telling CNBC on Monday the U.S. has received commitments for concessions on several key issues.

"This is the first time that we have a commitment from them that this will be a real agreement," Mnuchin told CNBC's "Squawk Box." "I'm very hopeful we can turn this into a real agreement."

Markets rallied strongly Monday morning, with the Dow opening more than 400 points higher, on news that President Donald Trump and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, had reached a truce in the trade battle. They agreed to a 90-day period were no new tariffs would be issued as the leaders hammer out principal differences.

While the administration is optimistic that a lasting deal can get done, Mnuchin emphasized that China has to keep to its word. The White House is looking to reduce the trade deficit with China and to stop it from stealing intellectual property and technology.

"They put on the table an offer of over $1.2 trillion in additional commitments. But the details of that still need to be negotiated," Mnuchin said. "This isn't just about buying things. This is about opening markets to U.S. companies and protecting U.S. technology. Those are very important structural issues to the president."

In the 90-day period ahead, Trump will lead the negotiations with assistance from Agriculture and Energy department leaders. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer also will be a principal, as will Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, Mnuchin said.

The protocol that Mnuchin listed contradicted an earlier statement from White House economic advisor Peter Navarro, who said Lighthizer would take point on the negotiations. However, sources told Dow Jones later in the morning that Trump is putting Lighthizer in charge.

Lighthizer is "the toughest negotiator we've ever had at the USTR. And he's going to go chapter and verse and get tariffs down, nontariff barriers down, and end all these structural practices that prevent market access," Navarro had told NPR.

Among the most important issues Mnuchin listed are a regulating the flow of fentanyl, an opioid linked to thousands of overdoses in the U.S., and the North Korea nuclear issue.

"There is a very strong commitment between the two presidents to work together to make sure we have a nuclear-free Korean peninsula," Mnuchin said.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said Sunday that China agreed to classify fentanyl as a controlled substance, a key step that will result in those selling the substance in the U.S. to be subject to "China's maximum penalty under the law."

As Mnuchin spoke to CNBC, Trump tweeted about his hopes for "massive and very positive change, on trade and far beyond, between our two great Nations."

Trump tweet

Mnuchin added that there needs to be solid progress made and that the administration won't stand for any stalling from China.

"We absolutely need to have something concrete over these 90 days," he said. "There was a very significant commitment from both leaders on what needs to be done over the 90 days and instructions to both teams to negotiate and turn this into a real agreement with specific action items, deliverables and time frames."Netflix is under investigation by the U.K.'s tax authority, according to a report by a British newspaper.

The Times of London reported Monday that Netflix's British accounts were under scrutiny by government tax body HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs).

The most recent accounts for Netflix's British arm showed its London office employed 14 people, the paper said. Netflix reportedly claimed the office only existed to provide support to its main European operation, which is registered in Amsterdam.

According to The Times' calculations, Netflix generates around 863 million ($1.1 billion) from British users every year  but only declared revenues of 23.9 million in 2017, with a profit before tax of around 1.1 million. It was noted, however, that the company received an income tax credit of around 177,000 as an incentive to produce British films and television shows.

A Netflix spokesperson told CNBC via email: "Netflix is contributing to the U.K. economy in many different ways. The provision of our service to U.K. based subscribers results in significant amounts of VAT (value added tax) for the U.K. government: 20 percent of the price of every Netflix U.K. subscription.

"We are also investing hundreds of millions directly in the U.K. entertainment industry, with close to 40 projects underway this year including new seasons of The Crown and Black Mirror and co-productions with British broadcasters. More than 20,000 people are working directly on Netflix original productions in the U.K., with this number set to grow as Netflix continues to invest in creating and licensing U.K. content. HMRC regularly audits the accounts of U.K. companies and we're currently engaged with them on this standard review."

HMRC told CNBC via email that it could not comment on individual cases. However, a spokesperson said: "HMRC has a very strong track record on challenging contrived tax arrangements. We make sure that large businesses, just like everyone else, pay all the taxes due under U.K. law and we don't settle for less. In 2017/18, HMRC secured over 9 billion in additional tax revenue from the largest and most complex businesses."The future of OPEC is on shaky ground, an analyst told CNBC on Monday, after Qatar abruptly announced it would sever ties with the influential oil cartel after almost six decades. Qatar's Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi said at a news conference Monday that Doha would leave OPEC on January 1, 2019. The decision comes just days before OPEC and its allies are scheduled to hold a much-anticipated meeting in Vienna, Austria. "This is big," Andy Critchlow, head of EMEA energy content at S&P Global Platts, told CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe." "In the 20 years that I've been covering OPEC, I can't think of anything that is bigger than this (and) that is a more systemic risk to the future of OPEC."

'OPEC doesn't really exist anymore'

Qatar's energy minister said the country would leave OPEC and focus on gas production. He denied the move was linked to an 18-month political and economic boycott of the country. Since June 2017, OPEC kingpin Saudi Arabia  along with three other Arab states  has cut trade and transport ties with Qatar, accusing the country of supporting terrorism and its regional rival Iran. Qatar denies the claims, saying the boycott hampers its national sovereignty. The Middle East-dominated group's final meeting of the calendar year is now expected to be Qatar's last. It has been an official OPEC member since 1961.

Qatar is not a major oil producer when compared to other OPEC members. But, Critchlow said, when looking at the small Gulf country's total energy output, it is on course to produce more than 6 million barrels of oil equivalent per day by 2022. "This is a major supplier of energy to the world," Critchlow said, highlighting Qatar's status as one of the world's largest producers of liquified natural gas (LNG). He also underlined the importance of Qatar's tactful approach to negotiating energy policy with regional rivals in recent years, saying the country had often acted as a "diplomatic bridge" in the Middle East-dominated group. "OPEC really doesn't exist anymore, it is a two-member organization  Russia and Saudi Arabia," Critchlow said. WATCH: Here's what drives the price of oil

Crucial meeting

Expectations are high that OPEC and non-OPEC members will orchestrate a fresh round of supply cuts later this week. It comes after Russian President Vladimir Putin said he and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman "agreed to extend" a deal to limit production. "I think OPEC is still alive," Ayham Kamel, head of Eurasia Group's Middle East and North Africa research team, told CNBC on Monday. "(But) I think it has become a different club. Does it become a less effective diplomatic bridge? It has been. The Iranians are not consulted, the Saudis act on their own with the Russians and try to bring everyone along," he added.Qatar announced plans to pull out of OPEC on Monday, just days before a crucial meeting between the influential oil cartel and its allies.

Speaking at a news conference, Qatar's Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi said the country would withdraw from OPEC on January 1, 2019, ending a membership which has stood for more than half-a-century.

The decision comes after Qatar reviewed ways in which it could improve its global standing and plan its long-term strategy.

While Qatar is one of OPEC's smallest oil producers, especially when compared to the likes of de facto leader Saudi Arabia, it is one of the world's largest producers of liquefied natural gas (LNG).

The country's energy minister said Monday that the move represents a "technical and strategic" change, Reuters reported, and was not politically motivated.

Qatar's Al-Kaabi also said the decision was not linked to the 18-month political and economic boycott of Doha.

Since June 2017, OPEC kingpin Saudi Arabia  along with three other Arab states  has cut trade and transport ties with Qatar, accusing the country of supporting terrorism and their regional rival, Iran. Qatar denies the claims, saying the boycott hampers its national sovereignty.

The Middle East-dominated group's final meeting of the calendar year is now expected to be Qatar's last. It has been an official OPEC member since 1961.

WATCH: What drives the price of oil?Robert Lighthizer, U.S. trade representative, speaks on the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, as President Donald Trump and Steven Mnuchin look on, in the Rose Garden of the White House, Oct. 1, 2018.

As the Trump administration sets out to strike a trade deal with China, confusion surrounds the role one of the president's more hawkish advisors will play in the talks.

The prominence U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer has in the negotiations could help to determine whether the White House takes a more aggressive or conciliatory approach to China. Top Trump economic advisor Larry Kudlow told reporters Monday that the 90-day timetable will start Jan. 1, but the White House later issued a correction saying the timetable starts Dec. 1. They agreed to a trade war truce on Saturday at the G-20 meeting in Argentina.

Lighthizer, a 71-year-old who joined the Trump administration after decades as an international trade lawyer, leads the agency charged with creating trade deals and resolving disputes. He headed arduous talks with Canadian and Mexican officials that led to a revised North American free trade agreement. Lighthizer also backed the tariffs on Chinese imports that the White House deployed as it pushed Beijing to address alleged trade abuses.

Earlier Monday, confusion reigned as details about the meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, and how any agreement would be managed, dribbled out. China had no such problem. Vice Premier Liu He has headed the talks for Beijing's side during the Trump administration.

Another Trump trade advisor Peter Navarro  a hard-liner who advocates a harsh approach to trade policy with China  said Lighthizer would lead negotiations. But Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow both quashed the idea of a nominal leader, instead casting the negotiations as a group effort led by Trump himself.

However, Kudlow said later Monday that Lighthizer would "take the lead on the negotiations and on the enforcement part" while Mnuchin handles currency manipulation and other topics.

Regardless of whether the trade representative heads the talks, the public contradictions over his role once again reflect the disparate elements of Trump's economic team.

The more free trade wing in Mnuchin and Kudlow is often at odds with the protectionist elements represented by Lighthizer and Navarro.

While Trump appears conciliatory now, his outlook could change when the next round of talks plays out  and that could affect whether he decides to reignite the trade war with increased tariff rates or new duties.Construction crews prepare a set of border wall prototypes along the U.S. border with Mexico on U.S. Customs and Border Protection property near San Diego, California.

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday said it would decline to hear a challenge to the Trump administration's proposed border wall brought by environmental groups who say construction could threaten endangered animals and violate environmental laws.

The groups asked the court to reject a 1996 law signed by President Bill Clinton that provides the executive branch with authority to waive environmental laws if those laws impede construction of barriers and roads near the border.

The law was expanded by Congress in 2005 to give the Department of Homeland Security authority to waive "all legal requirements" that could stand in the way of border construction.

The environmental groups said that the government's ability to waive the laws is unconstitutional. The justices did not issue a ruling on that matter.

But because they will not hear the case, a February ruling by a federal judge in San Diego will remain in place.

That ruling in favor of the government was handed down by U.S. District Court Judge Gonzalo Curiel. In 2016, then-presidential candidate Donald Trump said the Indiana-born judge could not be impartial in a case concerning Trump University because he was "Mexican." But, in February, Trump cheered Curiel's ruling as a legal victory.

Trump tweet

The Animal Legal Defense Fund, Defenders of Wildlife and Center for Biological Diversity were supported in their case by a coalition including nine Democratic members of the House of Representatives and the libertarian think tank The Cato Institute.

Among the Democrats urging the justices to take the case was Rep. Beto O'Rourke, a Texan who has floated the possibility of a 2020 presidential run.

The Center for Biological Diversity has said that construction of a 2,000 mile wall along America's southern border represents a "looming tragedy for the region's diverse wildlife and people, as well as its rugged and spectacular landscapes."

Trump has made construction of the wall a signature element of his agenda, saying it is necessary to enforce the nation's immigration laws.

WATCH: Tech from self-driving cars could solve border security without Trump's $5 billion wallTD Ameritrade is partnering with Tencent as the U.S. brokerage firm looks to tap the massive user base of the Chinese technology company's WeChat messaging app.

The online brokerage announced Monday it's opening a portal on WeChat for U.S. users, following a similar launch in August for Hong Kong users. The move doesn't get TD Ameritrade into mainland China yet, but would allow U.S. users to use the portal to check market data and other features. It gives the company a first-mover advantage in being present on the most popular social messaging app in China, amid a steady push of foreign financial firms into the world's second-largest economy.

"For greater Asia, China, there is obviously a large number of customers here who are interested in investing in U.S. markets," JB Mackenzie, the managing director of TD Ameritrade Asia, said in an interview with CNBC Monday.

WeChat has more than 1 billion monthly active users, according to Tencent. Known in China as Weixin, the mobile app is also used by many overseas Chinese and foreigners. It has evolved from recorded voice messages to a means of paying for store purchases and utility bills. Users can also access third-party services such as SF Express  a delivery company similar to FedEx  through "mini programs" that live within the WeChat app.

TD Ameritrade's portal will be a mini program. The company says users can access market data, investor education materials, account balance information and agent chat services. The bulk of WeChat's users are in mainland China and TD Ameritrade would likely need to work to generate awareness of the mini program for U.S. users.

"WeChat has been expanding its offering globally, and we are very excited that TD Ameritrade is using WeChat to bring our unrivaled convenience and accessibility to its customers," Juliet Zhu, general manager and head of WeChat Marketing at Tencent, said in a release.

TD Ameritrade's push to work with a leading Chinese brand comes as Beijing has stepped up its efforts this year to make good on years-long promises to open up its financial markets to foreign players.

This past Friday, UBS received approval to become the first foreign bank to increase its stake in a Chinese securities joint venture to a majority 51 percent. The news followed an announcement a few days earlier that German insurer Allianz could establish a wholly-owned unit in mainland China. In early November, American Express received preparatory approval from the People's Bank of China for a clearing and settlement license in mainland China, where the company has formed a joint venture with Chinese fintech (financial technology) company LianLian.

"(In the) past six months there's an increasing appetite from the (multinational corporations) to double down and increase their presence in China. That of course was triggered by new regulation (for allowing majority stakes)," Cliff Sheng, financial services partner at consulting firm Oliver Wyman, said in a phone interview Monday.

Sheng noted the ability of foreign financial firms to succeed in China depends on how much they can commit to localizing their services. "This is the primary concern for the foreign players on top of getting the license," he said.

In this case, TD Ameritrade is working with one of the leaders in China's rapidly developing fintech sector. WeChat's mobile pay function vies with Alibaba-affiliate Alipay as one of the primary means of payment in mainland China today, and parent company Tencent is behind the country's first digital bank, WeBank.

"I think there are some amazing ideas ready to burst out of this scene," Mackenzie said. "What you have are innovations from all parts of this world that are working to bring these ideas to customers, and that's an exciting opportunity to us."People walk on November 6, 2018 in front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC. Mandel Ngan | AFP | Getty Images

Global talking forums, such as the G-20, show that unhelpful rhetoric and an allegedly obstructionist behavior in official international organizations are not the way to advance America's interests. Those organizations have been built and underwritten by America at some of its finest hours of enlightened world leadership. Washington neocons, famously seeking a "full-spectrum global dominance," will not be the only people to note, with a tinge of sadness, that a real "program" speech for the G-20 was delivered last Friday at a Buenos Aires summit by Chinese President Xi Jinping. They will also shake their heads in disbelief seeing that the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) summit, on the same day, ripped the West's addiction to indiscriminate sanctions warfare, while urging constructive multilateral relations and a regulatory update of the World Trade Organization. All that is a world away from the first G-20 summit in Washington, D.C., in November 2008 at the height of the global financial crisis that ushered in the Great Recession. The U.S. is still nursing the deep wounds of that epochal debacle.

Come to terms with crisis legacy

The Fed's monetary base (M0) has skyrocketed from $820 billion in early 2008 to $3.5 trillion as of the last reserve reporting date on Nov. 21, 2018. Over the same period, excess reserves in the U.S. banking sector, funds banks can readily lend out, have followed a similar path from monthly averages of $1.5 to $2 billion to an astounding $1.7 trillion. That extraordinary monetary creation is what it took to keep the U.S. economy afloat. America's fiscal picture is even more worrying  and literally getting worse by the day. The price of bailing out the U.S. economy has been a near doubling of the gross public debt from 64 percent of GDP in 2007 to 105.5 percent at this writing. And the debt is on an unstoppable upward trend as the public sector budget deficit continues to widen toward 5 percent of GDP. The U.S. external deficits predate the financial crisis as a problem reflecting America's low savings rates, and free-trade policies in a world of mercantilists free-riding on the American economy. As a result, Washington's net foreign debt at the end of the second quarter of this year shot up to $8.6 trillion, an increase of $891.2 billion from the previous three-month period. By the end of this year, the fresh new liabilities to the rest of the world are likely to rise by an additional half-a-trillion dollars. Clearly, errors of trade policy can't be blamed on the rest of the world. America's trading partners simply took advantage of the country's open markets and its growing purchasing power. Fixing monetary excesses and the twin deficits is a difficult work-in-progress, where screaming and kicking rear ends, as one U.S. official boasted recently, cannot be substitutes for effective economic policies. To start with, leave the Fed alone to operate as it sees fit, but hold it to account for the impact of its policy choices on growth, employment and price stability. Fed officials who believe that solutions lie in allowing higher inflation rates will probably get a briefing by their colleagues, or the central bank's economists, about the wisdom of such a policy option.

Surplus addicts should follow the South Korean example

Price stability is a precious public good  a situation where investment decisions and contractual relationships are made under assumptions of stable prices, because the monetary authorities are trusted to deliver a stable purchasing power of the currency they manage. It's something like the German Bundesbank before the monetary union, where no German politician would dare talk about the monetary policy, and where it would be unthinkable that a Buba official would ever publicly urge higher inflation rates. Fiscal policies are a question of national priorities. The U.S. debt and deficit numbers are clear  and they are not good. Budget constraints must be respected. There is a political and market sanction if they are not. The Fed's independence also means that it should never validate unreasonable fiscal policy choices. Normally, fiscal and monetary policies must be closely coordinated to deliver a noninflationary policy mix for a steady and sustainable growth. A benign neglect of trade deficits is an equally serious policy blunder. Those deficits are a subtraction from American GDP. They are wealth transfers to trade partners and sources of American foreign debt because deficits have to be covered by U.S. debt instruments in exchange for foreign savings. For almost two years, Washington has been in a virtual state of siege because the Chinese, the Japanese and the Europeans don't care about threats and taunts. Those economies are piling on their U.S. trade surpluses with abandon. It should not take a dinner on Argentinian beef and a big delegation to convince the Chinese president to do "something" about his soaring U.S. trade surpluses. Xi knows he has a $400 billion trade problem with the U.S., and he knows that he needs to get that down. But Xi has been given a wonderful grace period because he has to negotiate Washington's requests to stop forced technology transfers, illegal intellectual property acquisitions, illegal export subsidies, etc. The solution here is simple. Washington should ask Beijing for a prompt reduction of its trade deficit. How China does that is its own choice. Think it can't actually be done that way? Well, in the first nine months of this year, South Korea slashed its U.S. trade surplus 22.3 percent, after a 17 percent cut for last year as a whole. That is a respectful gesture of a true friend and ally: A 39.3 percent surplus cut since U.S. President Donald Trump took office. The others can do that too, but the truth is the Chinese, the Japanese and the Europeans don't want to do it. And the U.S. should not leave it to the Chinese to change the structural problems. American companies should be prohibited from allowing forced technology transfers, or other forms of intellectual property thefts. Cyber-enabled thefts should be dealt with appropriate technologies that America has. Bilateral market access and investment practices should be matters of strict reciprocity, or as a Scorsese drama character would put it: "Same to you, fellas."

Investment thoughtsPresident Donald Trump visits the Forbidden City with China's President Xi Jinping in Beijing on November 8, 2017. Jonathan Ernst | Reuters

President Donald Trump's commitment to work toward a sweeping trade deal with China in the next three months sets up a pivotal stretch for one of his top campaign goals: reshaping U.S. trade relationships around the globe. The Trump administration and the Chinese government agreed to a temporary trade truce Saturday night, pledging to delay threatened tariffs for 90 days while they work toward a concrete trade deal. (Top Trump economic advisor Larry Kudlow told reporters Monday that the 90-day timetable will start Jan. 1, but the White House later issued a correction saying the timetable starts December 1.) Washington will push Beijing to address thorny issues such as forced technology transfers and alleged intellectual property theft  which the two sides have failed to resolve despite months of attempts. The commitment to talk throws Trump into the most high-stakes period yet in his yearslong effort to crack down on what he calls unfair trade practices. At the same time as the China talks play out, the president will try to push his revision of the North American Free Trade Agreement through a skeptical and divided Congress. Trump is eager to declare victory on trade after arguing as a candidate and in the White House that China's practices and the pact with Canada and Mexico punished American workers. But to do so, the volatile president will have to navigate delicate talks on two fronts. Failure in either effort could upend U.S. relationships with its three largest trading partners and shake the American and global economies.

Trump showed optimism Monday morning about breaking the impasse with China. In a tweet, he called his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G-20 summit in Argentina "extraordinary." He promised "very good things will happen." "We are dealing from great strength, but China likewise has much to gain if and when a deal is completed," he wrote. Trump tweet Trump moved to declare victory after Washington and Beijing paused a trade war that has led to tariffs on more than $350 billion in Chinese and U.S. goods combined. In separate tweets Monday, he said China has "agreed to reduce and remove" a 40 percent tariff on U.S. car imports and "immediately" purchase more U.S. agricultural products. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin  part of the delegation that met with Chinese officials this weekend  echoed the president's optimism on Monday. "This is the first time that we have a commitment from them that this will be a real agreement," he told CNBC's "Squawk Box." "I'm very hopeful we can turn this into a real agreement." Still, challenges await the Trump administration in all of its trade talks. Competing interests will potentially emerge on the China negotiating team. Mnuchin said Trump himself will lead the talks, but they will include U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and trade advisor Peter Navarro. Mnuchin's description contradicts an earlier statement from Navarro, who said Lighthizer would head the negotiations. Navarro, who among Trump's advisors has called for the most forceful approach to China, called Lighthizer "the toughest negotiator we've ever had at the USTR." Lighthizer is also known to take a harsher line on China. After Mnuchin's and Navarro's remarks, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources, that Trump told Xi that Lighthizer would run the negotiations between the two countries. Monday afternoon, Kudlow confirmed that Lighthizer would be leading the talks, after earlier playing up the notion that it would be more of a team effort.President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Hertz Arena on October 31, 2018.

A so-called "Trump effect" is damaging global progress on climate change by harming international diplomacy, according to a report published Monday.

The report from the Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA) considered the impact President Donald Trump was having on the objectives of the Paris Agreement. Drafted in 2015, the agreement set out targets for international economies to work towards in order to reduce carbon emissions.

Joseph Curtin, senior fellow at the IIEA and the author of the report, said the Trump administration's policies were stalling progress towards those targets.

"The 'Trump effect' has created a powerful countervailing force acting against the momentum (the Paris Agreement) hoped to generate," he said in the report.

Curtin noted three key areas where the Trump effect had "applied a brake" to the worldwide movement. He said federal rollbacks were increasing the attractiveness of fossil fuel investments; U.S. withdrawal from the agreement had created moral and political cover for other nations to follow suit; and goodwill at international negotiations was being damaged.

The U.S. withdrew from the Paris agreement in July, prompting concern of a knock-on effect on the prioritization of tackling climate change.

"At ongoing international climate negotiations, the Trump effect is slowing progress," the report said. "The Trump administration has reneged on a pledge to the Green Climate Fund, leaving an outstanding liability of $2 billion, and has opposed stringent rules for reporting on efforts to scale up financial commitments from rich countries. These decisions have aggravated distrust between developed and developing countries, which is a necessary ingredient for progress."

While the report said it was a mistake to deny the importance of the Trump effect, Curtin wrote that it was also a mistake to suggest that the Paris Agreement was in crisis.

"Major economies, international negotiators and investors have, to some extent, adopted a wait and see posture in advance of the U.S. presidential election on November 3, 2020," the report said.

"However, withdrawal was no aberration. It reflected broader and deeper structural factors within the U.S. political economy, and is consistent with a pattern of Republican administrations extending back nearly four decades

"In the short-run, the Paris Agreement can resist the Trump effect  it was designed to do so; but in the medium and longer-term, it will continue to be assailed by instability and uncertainty until these underlying structural factors can be addressed."

Despite the Trump effect's alleged impact on global attitudes towards climate change, many major economies are still prioritising the issue.

The EU announced Thursday that it was aiming to become the world's first climate neutral economy by 2050, and this week will see thousands of people arrive in Katowice, Poland, for the UN's COP24 summit on climate change.

A spokesperson for the White House was not immediately available for comment when contacted by CNBC.

WATCH: The Ocean Cleanup is launching a giant plastic catcher to sea to clean up 1.8 trillion ponds of trashPresident Donald Trump's former lawyer Michael Cohen exits Federal Court after entering a guilty plea in Manhattan, New York City, November 29, 2018 Andrew Kelly | Reuters

Although Trump's tweet suggested that those crimes are unrelated to the president, the campaign violations that Cohen admitted committing involved hush-money payments the lawyer facilitated to two women, porn star Stormy Daniels and Playboy model Karen McDougal, who claim to have had affairs with the president more than a decade ago. Cohen told a judge that one of those payments was made at the direction of Trump to influence the 2016 election. Last week, Cohen also admitted lying to Congress in 2017 by making a statement that minimized Trump's involvement in an aborted real estate project in Russia and by claiming efforts for that project ended months earlier than they did. In their court filing Friday, Cohen's lawyers noted that he is cooperating with Mueller's ongoing investigation, and that he also has met with New York state tax officials who are also probing the president. WATCH: Trump underreported payments to Cohen in official disclosures, a potential violationAt the time, Trump said the spending bill was the "most significant investment in our military and our war fighters in modern history."

The measure authorized a top-line budget of $717 billion to cover a litany of spending. It provided the largest raise to American troops in nearly a decade.

The statement marks a dramatic reversal for the president, who has championed increased spending on the military and in August signed a colossal defense spending bill.

WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump on Monday said that the U.S., China and Russia would "at some time in the future" begin talks to end what he described as an uncontrollable arms race, and declared U.S. defense spending "crazy!"

In March, after teasing a potential veto, Trump signed a $1.3 trillion omnibus spending package that granted the most significant increase in defense funding in 15 years. The Department of Defense is set to gain $61 billion more than last year's enacted funding for a top line of $700 billion.

The president said at the time that he had "no choice but to fund our military because we have to have by far the strongest military in the world."

In recent months, Trump has escalated his attacks on Russia for its arms program and announced his intention to withdraw from a Cold War-era nuclear weapons treaty. The U.S. and Russia collectively possess more than 90 percent of the world's nuclear weapons.

The Trump administration has repeatedly targeted both China and Russia for attempting to undermine the United States on the world stage.

In its first National Security Strategy, a document that outlines the administration's defense priorities, the administration said in late 2017 that "China and Russia challenge American power, influence, and interests, attempting to erode American security and prosperity."

"They are determined to make economies less free and less fair, to grow their militaries, and to control information and data to repress their societies and expand their influence," the administration added.

But on Monday, the president appeared more wary of the growing portion of America's national budget devoted to defense, and signaled the possibility that the three countries could come together to forge an agreement.

"I am certain that, at some time in the future, President Xi and I, together with President Putin of Russia, will start talking about a meaningful halt to what has become a major and uncontrollable Arms Race," Trump wrote. "The U.S. spent 716 Billion Dollars this year. Crazy!"

The Pentagon did not respond to a request for comment. Defense Secretary James Mattis later told reporters that he hadn't seen the president's tweet.

Trump returned to Washington on Sunday after attending the G-20 summit of world leaders in Argentina. At the summit, Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to a trade war cease-fire, though the details of the agreement reached by the two leaders remain uncertain. Stock markets surged Monday, the first day of trade after the summit.

A Kremlin spokesperson said Monday that Putin expected to discuss the nuclear weapons treaty with Trump during a planned meeting at the summit, according to the state news agency TASS.

"But, regrettably, as you know, the meeting never took place," the spokesperson said.US President Donald Trump (R) and China's President Xi Jinping (L) along with members of their delegations, hold a dinner meeting at the end of the G20 Leaders' Summit in Buenos Aires, on December 01, 2018.

U.S. President Donald Trump said China had agreed to cut import tariffs on American-made cars, buoying shares in BMW and Daimler who manufacture in the United States for export to the world's biggest auto market.

General Motors shares jumped more than 4 percent in premarket trading. Ford and Tesla rose 3 percent each.

Shares of Chinese car dealers also perked up on hopes that such a move could revitalize the domestic auto market that is poised for its first annual sales contraction in decades amid cooling economic growth and a debilitating U.S.-China trade war.

Trump, fresh from agreeing a 90-day cease-fire in his trade war with China at the meeting of the G20, said on Twitter "China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%".

Donald Trump tweet

The move, if realized, would bolster U.S. carmakers who were hit hard when China ramped up levies on U.S.-made cars in July as part of a broad package of retaliatory tariffs amid the sprawling trade war between Washington and Beijing.

"If they cancel the extra 25 percent tariff on U.S.-made cars, then we will see positive signs for imported cars," Wang Cun, director of the China Automobile Dealers Association's import committee, told reporters in Beijing.

Beijing raised tariffs on U.S. auto imports to 40 percent in July, forcing many carmakers to hike prices in a major hit to the roughly $10 billion worth of passenger vehicles the United States sent to China last year.

That put U.S.-made car brands like Tesla and Ford's Lincoln at a major disadvantage as the move came soon after China slashed auto import tariffs for the wider market to 15 percent from 25 percent.

Trump's tweet did not give any further detail about the tariff cuts, such as when the deal had been reached or a new level for the Chinese levies.

The White House and U.S. Trade Representative's (USTR) office did not immediately respond to a request for comment late on Sunday. China's commerce and finance ministries did not respond to requests for comment on Monday.US and Chinese national flags are seen on the motorcade of US Vice President Joe Biden during his meeting with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao during their meeting at the Zhongnanhai leaders' compound in Beijing on August 19, 2011.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump may have agreed to put their bilateral trade war on pause, but that move is merely a "non-escalation rather than a ceasefire" between two of the world's largest economies, according to one strategist.

The agreement between the world leaders over dinner at the G-20 summit in Argentina does not address existing tariffs already set in motion, and that means continued pressure on China's economic growth, said Paul Kitney, chief equity strategist of Asia Pacific research at Daiwa Capital Markets.

The U.S. agreed to leave tariffs on more than $200 billion worth of Chinese products at 10 percent. If after 90 days the two countries are unable to reach an agreement, that rate will be raised to 25 percent, according to the White House. Trade negotiations will address forced technology transfer and intellectual property.

Until now, Washington had threatened to more than double the tariffs it has already slapped on $250 billion worth of Chinese imports, while Beijing has put targeted tariffs on $110 billion in U.S. goods.

"We still have tariffs imposed on a, you know, very large quantum, the impact of another three months of 10 percent tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods ... equates to around 0.2, 0.3 percentage points of GDP in China," Kitney told CNBC on Monday.Chinese President Xi Jinping and members of Chinese delegation attend a working dinner with U.S. President Donald Trump after the G20 leaders summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina December 1, 2018.

Another apparent discrepancy comes from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who remarked that the two countries will work toward eliminating tariffs. A White House Press Secretary statement posted online , for its part, did not include that point.

While it's typical for there to be some daylight between governments' spin about bilateral meetings, a host of differences between the Chinese and the American version of events points to a potentially challenging road ahead for any negotiations.

While both the U.S. and China called this weekend's meeting on trade very successful, many Chinese-language state media left out references to a 90-day condition for both sides to agree on issues such as technology transfer.

The White House did not immediately respond to a CNBC request for comment outside of U.S. business hours. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to a faxed request for comment ahead of a daily afternoon press conference.

U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met over a dinner during the G-20 summit in Argentina after months of increasing trade tensions between the two countries. The U.S. has imposed tariffs on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods, while Beijing has retaliated with duties on $110 billion of U.S. goods.

The White House's latest round of tariffs on $200 billion goods was set to rise to 25 percent from 10 percent on Jan. 1, 2019, but Trump agreed at the G-20 meeting not to do so.

The catch is, however, that Xi and Trump must find resolution on "forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and cyber theft, services and agriculture" within 90 days, according to the White House press secretary's statement.

That gives the leaders until early March  past Christmas, New Year's and Chinese New Year  to find a way to keep tariffs from rising.

However, official online statements about Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's briefing on the meeting did not discuss the technology transfers or the 90-day condition.

The timeframe and details on areas of disagreement also did not appear in online reports from China's state news agency Xinhua, People's Daily  the official Communist Party paper  and CGTN  the English-language version of state broadcaster CCTV.

The articles did note the U.S. and China agreed to work towards mutual benefits, and generally indicated Beijing would increase purchases of U.S. goods. The state media also said the two parties discussed North Korea denuclearization. The Chinese press also said Trump upheld a "One-China Policy" regarding Taiwan  something not mentioned in the White House statement.

On top of that, Trump tweeted late Sunday evening that "China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%."

Prior to that Twitter post, there had not been any mention of such an agreement in Chinese sources.

Trump tweet: China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi's remarks and some articles also discussed how China would move toward controlling fentanyl, which is linked to the opioid crisis in the U.S.

Again, such a remark fell short of the second paragraph in the White House's statement that: "President Xi, in a wonderful humanitarian gesture, has agreed to designate Fentanyl as a Controlled Substance, meaning that people selling Fentanyl to the United States will be subject to China's maximum penalty under the law."

In addition, Chinese state media did not mention the White House's claim that "Xi also stated that he is open to approving the previously unapproved Qualcomm-NXP deal should it again be presented to him."

However, English-language editorials in Global Times did note the 90-day condition, and mentions of the timeframe were scattered throughout private Chinese-language reports and social media discussion.



But WeChat users were unable to share a Chinese and English-language version of the White House Press Secretary's statement from the U.S. embassy's official WeChat account. The post had more than 100,000 views and 5,423 likes as of Monday morning. Users could share other embassy posts.

WeChat, developed by Chinese tech giant Tencent, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

"The U.S. Embassy faces regular and routine blocking of social media posts in China," according to a U.S. embassy spokesperson. "The U.S. believes the free flow of information, including citizens' access to media, plays an important role in fostering mutual understanding."After meeting with China's president Xi Jinping at the G-20 summit, President Donald Trump announced that he and his Chinese counterpart had among other issues, come to an agreement help stem the flow of illegal fentanyl from China to the United States.

The White House said in a statement Saturday that China has agreed to designate fentanyl as a controlled substance, "meaning that people selling Fentanyl to the United States will be subject to China's maximum penalty under the law."

The White House praised the move as "a wonderful humanitarian gesture" by President Xi and the news has been greeted with cautious optimism by lawmakers and experts.

But terms of the so-called agreement are as yet unclear. Chinese state-controlled media outlets on Sunday did not explicitly say that fentanyl would be designated as a controlled substance as per the White House statement, reporting instead that China would only move toward controlling fentanyl.

"My meeting in Argentina with President Xi of China was an extraordinary one," President Trump tweeted on Monday as observers tried to parse how the two giants would actually come to terms on trade and other issues discussed in Argentina. The Trump administration has put a pause on escalating tariffs as the two sides negotiate for the next 90 days.

The fentanyl news comes at a time when lawmakers are scrambling to control the country's growing opioid epidemic.

In a report released last week, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids such as fentanyl increased by 45 percent between 2016 and 2017. Fentanyl, according to the CDC, is up to 100 times more potent than morphine and many times that of heroin.

In October, President Trump signed the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act into law, which aims to expand opioid addiction treatment and fund research on non-opioid painkillers. The law also incorporates the STOP Act, which requires the U.S. Postal Service to send advanced electronic data on international packages to Customs and Border Protection, in an aim to stop fentanyl from entering the country via mail.

Members of Congress from both sides of the aisle applauded the move by President Trump but seemed wary that the the Chinese government would follow through.

Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., said in a statement that the "president deserves great credit for persuading China to make the selling of fentanyl subject to the maximum penalty under Chinese law." Tennessee has a higher rate of opioid-related deaths than the national average.

"We must do all we can to hold China accountable and ensure that they follow through on this commitment," said Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., who also co-sponsored the STOP Act.

Fentanyl is the leading cause of overdose deaths in New Hampshire, said Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., in a statement. She called Trump's announcement "an important breakthrough that will help save lives but this commitment must be followed by diligent implementation by the Chinese government."

Sean O'Connor, policy analyst at the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission and author of a recent report on fentanyl trafficking from China, was skeptical that the move would have a large impact.

"After a new substance is controlled in China, manufacturers modify the chemical structure to create 'new' chemical analogues that aren't controlled in China," O'Connor said in a tweet. "It's essentially a game of chemical whack-a-mole where regulators are always one step behind the manufacturers."

He continued, pointing out that "China has made sweeping agreements on fentanyl in past meetings with the U.S. and failed to follow through."The White House, however, did not back up Trump's claims about China ending tariffs, but referred instead to a temporary agreement not to raise them further . And it gave little indication of China "opening up."

President Donald Trump's assertions about the U.S.-China agreement to pause tariff escalations that emerged over the weekend do not appear to match the White House's official description of the agreement.

The results of the discussions in Buenos Aires are positive, but contrary to President Trump's enthusiastic comments, did not result in a breakthrough.

In a statement, the White House press secretary said Beijing will agree to purchase "a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial" amount of U.S. agricultural, energy, industrial and other products in order "to reduce the trade imbalance between our two countries."

During the talks at the G-20 meeting, the two superpowers agreed to delay additional taxes on each other's goods for the next 90 days  during which time they will try to overcome difficult differences including "forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and cyber theft."

The president's broad conclusions about the trade agreement also didn't mesh with Chinese state media's more measured descriptions.

The White House did not immediately respond to a CNBC request for comment overnight.

Political watchers were quick to highlight the contrast between Trump's lofty proclamations and the official statement from the White House.

Trump's comments "show his number one priority is the appearance of being a great dealmaker," said Mintaro Oba, a former U.S. State Department official who specialized in the Koreas during the Obama administration. "It doesn't matter to him what the details are, as long as he looks strong to his supporters."

"When it comes to anything associated with him, especially deals, things can't just be good, they have to be best," Oba continued.The next crucial date to watch for clues on where the trade war is heading may be just around the corner  way before the end of the 90-day period that U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping have agreed on to withhold further tariffs.

China marks the 40th anniversary of its economic reforms on Dec. 18, which is an occasion Beijing could use to emphasize its commitment to transform its economy, noted Scott Kennedy, deputy director of the Freeman Chair in China Studies and director of the Project on Chinese Business and Political Economy at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

"If that day or week goes by with no major new announcements, then we know that for sure there's not a possibility that the Chinese want to use this as an opportunity to change the direction of their economy and industrial policies," Kennedy told CNBC's "Squawk Box" on Monday.

If that happens, the tariff fight between the U.S. and China will certainly re-escalate at the end of the 90-day period, he added.

Trump over the weekend agreed to not raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10 percent to 25 percent in January as he had previous threatened, according to a White House statement. In exchange, the U.S. and China will work toward a deal within 90 days  a timeline that many experts have said is too short given the complicated issues surrounding the tariff fight.Markets around the world cheered the 90-day ceasefire that U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed on over the weekend, but experts repeatedly expressed doubt that any concrete steps to totally ease tensions between the two economic giants can be achieved in so short a time. "This is not a truce, this is not an armistice," Steve Okun, senior advisor at McLarty Associates, told CNBC's "Street Signs" on Monday. He noted the additional tariffs that the U.S. and China have imposed on each other's products are still in place, so the 90-day withholding of further levies doesn't signal the end of the trade fight. "Sure, it's a good sign that presidents talk, it's a good sign that they've set some kind of 90-day period  even though we don't really know what's expected to occur in that 90 days  but the trade war is on," added Okun, a trade expert and a board member of the American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore. Trump and Xi met at the G-20 summit in Argentina over the weekend. There, the American president agreed to not raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10 percent to 25 percent in January as he had previously threatened, according to a statement from the White House. But, if the two countries fail to reach a deal at the end of 90 days, the threatened tariffs will be implemented, the statement said. Notably, the 90-day period was not emphasized by the Chinese side. Stocks in Asia traded higher on Monday morning after the news, U.S. stock futures jumped, and oil prices soared. But there aren't many reasons for such optimism in markets to continue, some experts said.

The development in Buenos Aires over the weekend was simply a "continuity of the trade policy that the Trump administration has had," said Antonio Fatas, an economics professor at INSEAD. That policy involves the president finding a way to "break" things and then fix them, which results in "a sort of relief that things are back together," he said. "So, it makes sense for the markets to be positive on this development because things look better than a week ago. But there's no sense of direction, it's not clear what battle we're fighting here ... it's very hard to see the endgame when you don't know what the strategy is here," Fatas told CNBC's "Street Signs" on Monday.

Ninety days is too short

Realistically, a trade deal that addresses all the complaints that the U.S. has about China would take years to negotiate, Dutch bank ING wrote in a note on Sunday. Trump has repeatedly attacked Beijing for practices such as intellectual property theft, barriers to American companies that want to operate in China and the massive trade imbalance between the two countries. ING said: "90 days to work out a broad agreement is very short. Especially because the agreement should also encompass a deal on more sensitive issues like the theft of intellectual property and forced technology transfers in joint ventures. Most wide-ranging bilateral trade agreements take years to negotiate." In addition to the short timeline, there are other reasons why the U.S.-China tariff fight would re-escalate, according to political risk consultancy Eurasia Group. "Trump could lose his enthusiasm for a deal if he encounters criticism domestically for a weak agreement, if his fears over a US market downturn fade, and once the theater of his meeting with Xi is over," Eurasia Group said in a note on Saturday.WASHINGTON  India risked U.S. sanctions when it agreed to a $5 billion deal to buy Russian missile systems. But two months after India signed the pact, it's not clear whether the Trump administration will issue a waiver or follow through with any penalties.

India's purchase of the Kremlin's S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile system is subject to potential U.S. sanctions under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, a measure that was signed by President Donald Trump in 2017.

The deal and possible sanctions could come up this week, when India's defense minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, holds talks with Defense Secretary James Mattis. The U.S. Defense chief stressed on Monday that this wouldn't be the first time India has purchased weapons from the Kremlin.

"India has been spent many, many years in its nonaligned status, and it's drawn a lot of weapons from Russia," Mattis told reporters at the Pentagon ahead of Sitharaman's arrival Monday. She is slated to leave Washington on Tuesday.

"We are here today to talk about all the issues that bring us closer together and we'll sort out all those issues here today and in the days ahead," he added, when asked about India's S-400 purchase.

Russia's S-400 system, a mobile long-range surface-to-air missile system, made its debut on the world stage in 2007. The platform rivals Lockheed Martin's THAAD, or terminal high altitude area defense, system and Raytheon's Patriot system.

Compared with U.S. systems, the Russian-made S-400 is capable of engaging a wider array of targets, at longer ranges and against multiple threats simultaneously.

What's more, the Russian-made platform costs approximately $500 million, whereas a Patriot Pac-2 battery costs $1 billion and a THAAD battery rings in at about $3 billion, according to people with firsthand knowledge of a U.S. intelligence assessment.

About 13 countries have expressed interest in buying the S-400. China, India and Turkey have already signed purchase agreements for the missile platform.

China is in the middle of receiving its final shipment of the S-400 system. Turkey, a NATO ally, is slated to receive its S-400 next year and is expected to have the system ready for use by 2020.Italian Prime Minister Guiseppe Conte has agreed to let India host the 2022 G20 meeting on the request of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, The Economic Times reported.

The development shows improvement in bilateral ties between the two nations following a 2012 incident when two Italian marines were accused of killing an Indian fishermen duo off the Kerala coast, the report said.

India was scheduled to host the G20 summit in 2021 and Italy in 2022. But Modi said he had requested Italy to host the summit in 2021 and allow India to host it in 2022, on the occasion of the 75th year of Indias independence, the report said citing people aware of the matter.Employees of Indian company Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services (IL&FS) taken hostage by local staff in Ethiopia say they fear for their safety , with some confined to a company campus north of the capital Addis Ababa.

India has asked the Ethiopian authorities to investigate and help the seven IL&FS employees who were held by local staff due to non-payment of salaries by the debt-laden firm, an Indian government official said on Saturday.

A group of four employees had not been allowed to leave an IL&FS campus in Bure town, 400 km (250 miles) north of Addis Ababa, since Nov. 24, said store manager Nagaraju Bishnu, one of the employees held .

Two other IL&FS employees were detained by local staff in the town of Woliso and one in Nekemte town, both of which are west of the capital, Bishnu told Reuters by telephone.

"The main gate is locked, they are observing our movements," said 26-year-old Bishnu, speaking of the situation at Bure.

"They've told us that until they get their salaries, we can't move from here ... We are facing sleepless nights."

IL&FS late on Saturday said two of its seven employees had been released and were now in Addis Ababa. But it was not clear whether those employees were the ones held at Woliso or Nekemte. Bishnu said he and his colleagues were still trapped at Bure.

The Indian government took control of IL&FS in October after it defaulted on some of its debt, triggering wider concerns about risk to the country's financial system.

The infrastructure financing and development company had over the years developed roads, townships and water-treatment projects in India and abroad.

An official at India's foreign ministry said the government was discussing the matter "on priority" with Ethiopian authorities and the management of IL&FS.

"We are doing our best to ensure a settlement of this matter," said the official, who declined to be identified.

An IL&FS spokesman in India, Sharad Goel, said the company was making efforts, in coordination with the Indian government and the Indian embassy in Addis Ababa, to ensure the safe and early return of its employees .

"We continue to work towards resolving the situation and have been in touch with our employees in Ethiopia," Goel said in a statement.

Ethiopian government officials in Addis Ababa could not be reached for comment.

LOW ON WATER SUPPLIES

With the situation widely reported in the media, Bishnu said he feared the local staff would take away mobile phones or cut online access to restrict those held from talking to colleagues or communicating via e-mails and social media.

For now, Bishnu said, he has been speaking with the IL&FS employees held hostage in different areas, and the movement of employees within the camp has not been restricted.

The employees are cooking their own food, eating potatoes and rice, although drinking water supplies are running low.

"After tomorrow, there will be no drinking water," he said.

Some of the employees being held have been posting messages on Twitter, asking Indian politicians including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the foreign minister to intervene.Bazaar Corporate Radar | Feb 22, 2021, 12:00 AM IST

Bazaar Corporate Radar

Bazaar Corporate Radar is your window into the minds of top CEOs, Boardrooms, global economists, fund managers and sector analysts. If it?s making news, you?ll find it on Bazaar Corporate Radar.U.S. Secretary Education Betsy DeVos has praised the Swiss approach to apprenticeships, which allows students to prepare on the job for careers in health care, finance, and law.

Now the United States has signed an agreement with Switzerland to encourage businesses, policymakers, and educators in both countries to champion apprenticeship programs. (The agreement does not appear to include new financial resources for on-the-job learning.)

The signing ceremony for the agreement at NOVA Woodbridge Regional Center for Workforce Education and Training , in Woodbridge, Va., not far from Washington, featured DeVos; Wilbur Ross, the commerce secretary; Alexander Acosta, the secretary of labor; Ivanka Trump, the presidents eldest daughter and adviser; as well as Swiss government and business officials.

DeVos traveled to Switzerland earlier this year, where she visited career education sites. After the trip, she lauded the sheer number of students participating at some point in their academic careerabout two-thirds according to the secretary. And she said she liked that the Swiss allow students to transfer from apprenticeship programs to higher education

The Swiss approach is one from which we can all learn a great deal, she said in remarks at the event Monday. One important take-away from my visit to Switzerland is that Swiss business leaders didnt ask for a permission slip from government to partner with educators.

She urged U.S. business to follow suit.

Right now, with Americas growing economy, there are over seven million unfilled jobs, DeVos said. So, let me say this to business leaders: instead of calling a legislator, visit an educator! And educators, visit a business leader and see first-hand what is needed for todays and tomorrows opportunities.

She said the agreement would help build on a recent reauthorization of the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education program, the main federal funding vehicle for high schools. Learn more about that new law here.

U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos listens as President Donald Trump speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the White House on March 13. --Andrew Harnik/AP

Follow us on Twitter at @PoliticsK12 .Colorado Politics is published both in print and online. Our website features subscriber-only news stories daily, designed for public policy arena professionals. Member subscribers also receive the weekly print edition of our award-winning newspaper, containing outstanding features and news stories, in their mailboxes every Saturday.The Missourians Opinion section is a public forum for the discussion of ideas. The views presented in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Missourian or the University of Missouri. If you would like to contribute to the Opinion page with a response or an original topic of your own, visit our submission formApple knows how networks work. Think how the company managed to become dominant in mobile technology off the back of iTunes and the iPod. It knows tastes change, and it knows how to surf that change. At its best, this is what the company does.

Apple will go 5G when its ready

It looks like the latest Apple-critic groupthink we are going to endure across the next 12 to 18 months will be: Apple is late to 5G.

The argument will be based on a smattering of hardware manufacturers sticking 5G inside of their devices a little earlier than most in the industry, even though the networks arent ready, 5G services arent really available, and (last time I looked) the standard isnt even complete yet.

[ Further reading: How AR and VR will change enterprise mobility ]

Id argue that manufacturers trying to get into this early are the equivalent of party guests turning up before the invitations go out. Theyll look pretty foolish if they all turn up in togas for what turns out to be a Star Wars theme party.

You know the next chapter

If youve been watching the never-ending AAPL movie, you know what happens next:

The early players in 5G will deliver half-baked services that dont work to a thunder of marketing.

These will be available in certain high-end devices, but only in a very small number of geographies where 5G (is it even 5G?) networks will be available.

Were looking at 2020 at the earliest in most countries. Ericsson predicts 5G will reach 1.5 billion users by 2024.

Many in the media will become breathlessly excited and histrionic, waving expressions like Mobile Broadband or Connect Anywhere, and millions of consumers will buy into their marketing-driven mantra and slap their cash down for a new device only to find either they dont have access to any 5G services in their location or those that do exist are expensive  and everyone will feel pretty cheated.

(Its important to remember that those arguments concerning fake news didnt come from nowhere in a quest for traffic, many media outlets that should know better have been guilty of peddling various concoctions of twisted fantasy, which has helped that perception thrive. Chinese servers, anyone?)

Those seeking a first-to-market advantage in 5G will deliver solutions that dont match the hype. We all know those first-generation Samsung smartwatches failed to set the world on fire. Too little, too early, and too lame.

Thats when Apple comes in

Just when people have given up on the whole 5G dream, Apple will enter the fray with a new device (expected to appear in 2020) equipped with support for the ratified 5G standard.

When it does, the company will look to its existing services, apps, technologies to provide reasons for people to want to use its 5G phones. iCloud, Apple Music, television and movie services, FaceTime AR, and other augmented reality experiences will all be part of this argument. Video will be critical, and video-based services of various kinds will be liberated by 5G speeds. Many people will travel the world using Maps.

Thats not to mention the possibility of creating APIs designed to support CoreML machine intelligence at the edge. Machine-to-machine (M2M) technology means cars that talk to one another. Just like people, machines that speak together are far less likely to collide.

Despite the promise, Apple will enter the industry only when it has figured out three things:

When there are enough 5G networks in place that consumers are justified paying for devices that support it  those 5G radios will not be free. When Apple and its partners have developed a 5G modem thats good enough. When the standard is fully baked  and if it isnt, iPhone users will get a subsequent software upgrade that brings the tech in line with the final 5G specification.

What's next?

The move to 5G will be fundamental, but will take place over the next five to 10 years.

Not only will it enable next-generation services across the entire hardware/software infrastructure from the network center to the edge (think self-healing machines, network-based AI traffic security centers, M2M on a global scale and more), it will also enable innovation in OTT service provision and the introduction of new connected hardware across almost every industry known to man.

Think hundreds of billions of connected devices generating data analytics on a global scale (which is why privacy is essential and law makers who are too compromised or dumb to see that are making the world less secure).

Within this context, being first to market will likely be a disadvantage. In an industry and on a planet about to experience profound change, it seems much, much more essential and (dare I say it?) ethically responsible to get the recipe right.

Please follow me on Twitter, and join me in the AppleHolics bar & grill and Apple Discussions groups on MeWe.Downing Streets migration push hampered by battle between May and Javid

The Home Office refused to let the Prime Minister front a new border announcement  The Times

The stream of ministerial resignations is making government less effective  FT Leader

Brexit is all about bigotry  Matthew dAncona, The Guardian

EU ministers meet to negotiate stronger central finance powers  FT

Home Secretary Sajid Javid is locked in a Brexit row with Theresa May over how quickly to restrict low-skilled immigration, the Sun can reveal. Sources claimed the Home Secretary wants to keep the border open to low skilled workers beyond the end of 2020 in a sop to business. But the PM is said to want to introduce restrictions as soon as the post-Brexit transition phase is over in two years time so firms are forced to train up young Brits. Insiders fear the fresh battle means the Governments flagship Immigration White Paper may not be published in full before the PMs crunch Commons Brexit vote next week. Uncertainty around a new post-Brexit border system has also raised concerns the Home Office would have no way of ending free movement if we leave the EU without a deal in MarchA Whitehall source said: Sajid and the PM are at loggerheads. They agree on main points, but the argument is over how quickly they move to bring down low-skilled migration. Sajid wants to keep the system as it is for a while but she thinks there has to be a date, something to motivate firms to recruit here instead.  The Sun

>Today: George Bridges on Comment: The Prime Ministers Brexit deal. The choice facing Parliament is compromise or chaos.

>Yesterday: ToryDiary: Our survey. Almost seven in ten Party members say that Conservative MPs should vote against Mays deal.

Pressure mounts on the Government to publish Coxs legal advice on the deal

On Monday Theresa May will refuse to publish the full legal advice on the grounds that it is privileged, in defiance of a majority of MPs want it released in full. Geoffrey Cox, the Attorney General, will instead only give a reasoned position statement summarising the legal advice while he takes questions in the Commons. John Bercow, the Commons Speaker, has warned that ministers could face suspension from the Commons for failing to publish the guidance under contempt of Parliament proceedingsIn his speech today, Mr Cox will make a political rather than legal argument about the Prime Ministers Brexit deal. He will argue that the EU does not want to use the backstop either. However Mr Coxs legal advice is far more stark, warning that Britain could be trapped in the customs union indefinitely.  Daily Telegraph

The full advice should be published  The Times Leader

Of course it must  there is no good reason to withhold it  Boris Johnson, Daily Telegraph

The Prime Minister herself urged such advice to be released during the Iraq debate  Daily Telegraph Leader

She will tell MPs today that her deal allows the UK to make free trade deals  The Times

Leaked House of Commons legal analysis warns otherwise  BrexitCentral

Robbins privately warned May that her deal risks a bad outcome for the UK  Daily Telegraph

>Today: ToryDiary: Our survey. The proportion of Party members who want May out now hits over half for the first time.

>Yesterday: WATCH: Lewis says that Cox will deliver on the Governments Brexit deal legal advice commitments tomorrow

Labour will call a no confidence vote if MPs reject the Prime Ministers proposal

Labour announced it will call a no-confidence vote in Theresa May if she loses her crunch Brexit showdown next week. Shadow Brexit Secretary Sir Keir Starmer said his party would inevitably try to collapse the Government after what is expected to be a big defeat for the PM in her December 11 crunch vote. A General Election could follow if Mrs May fails to win a majority in a no-confidence vote in the Commons. Sir Keir told Sky News: It seems to me that if the Prime Minister has lost a vote of that sort of significance then there has to be a question of confidence in the Government.  The Sun

>Today: Nicky Morgans column: The only credible alternative plan is Norway Plus. And that may well be what Parliament ends up supporting.

>Yesterday: WATCH: If the deal is voted down, the Prime Minister should go back to Brussels, says Villiers

Party leaders scrap over television debate format and channel

The Brexit TV debate between Theresa May and Jeremy Corbyn is hanging by a thread after each side accused the other of running scared. Mrs May is at loggerheads with the Labour leader over whether ITV or the BBC should host the debate on Sunday before MPs vote on the Brexit deal. Labour says that the BBCs plans would feature up to 20 extra participants involved in Brexit, possibly including MPs from other parties. Mr Corbyn would prefer the hour-long head-to-head debate suggested by ITV. Mrs May, however, has accepted the BBCs offer and No 10 said last night that she did not intend to budge. She has challenged him to accept her preferred format for a television debate or be seen as running scared.  The Times

The tax burden is at its highest in half a century

The Tories once stood for low taxes. What happened to them?  The Sun Says

Taxes on households and companies have hit their highest level in 50 years, figures reveal. The tax burden has soared to 34.6 per cent of gross domestic product  surpassing the 34.4 per cent recorded in the early Sixties. In its 2017 manifesto, the Government promised to keep taxes as low as possible for businesses and working familiesPriti Patel, a former Cabinet minister, said: Its an embarrassment to this or any government to take so much money from hard-working taxpayers. Lower taxes promote economic freedom which leads to more growth, more jobs and more money in peoples pockets. That is the only  and the Conservative  way forward. Owen Paterson, another former Tory Cabinet minister, added: These figures are shocking. High taxes slow economic growth. The TaxPayers Alliance warned that forecasts indicated tax take is likely to be maintained at the same level over the next five years.  Daily Mail

Thousands more grammar school places get the go-ahead

Grammar schools across the country will today be given the go-ahead to create thousands of new places to meet fierce demand from parents. A total of 16 schools have been given a share of a 50million fund to build new classrooms  accommodating up to 4,000 extra pupils. The schools, across 12 counties, were selected from 39 bidders and make up 10 per cent of the countrys 163 grammars. The money has been granted on the condition the schools carry out ambitious plans to admit more poor pupilsSelection panel insiders said there was a high bar for choosing schools and only those with the most radical plans to help poorer pupils were successful. Announcing the list, Education Secretary Damian Hinds said: I have always been clear that selective schools will only be able to expand if they meet the high bar we have set for increasing access for disadvantaged children, and all of these schools have done that. As a result, countless more children from disadvantaged areas will benefit from places at outstanding schools.  Daily Mail

MI6 chief calls for new generation of intelligence services, based on AI and robotics

He will warn Moscow not to underestimate us  The Times

Russian state journalists accused of acting as surrogate spies  The Times

Home Office warns that new EU law will harm the fight against online paedophilia  Daily Telegraph

The far right wins its first seats in Spain since the 1970s  The Times

Moore: Bush, the last President to believe in duty above all else

The head of MI6 will on Monday highlight the urgent need for a new era of spying in which artificial intelligence and robotics are deployed to combat rogue states hellbent on perpetual confrontation with the UK. In a rare public speech  only his second in four years in the job  Alex Younger, the Chief of MI6, will say that Britain must enter an age of fourth generation espionage to keep the country safe. The MI6 boss  known as C  will also emphasise the importance of strengthening Britains security ties with European allies ahead of Brexit, pointing out that multiple Islamic State-inspired attacks on the Continent have been disrupted thanks to the co-operation of intelligence agencies. The speech to students at St Andrews University, where Mr Younger studied, will also warn of the danger of adversaries who are willing to take advantage of huge leaps in cyber technology to launch attacks on Britain in ways that fall short of traditional warfare.  Daily Telegraph

He was not a passionate crusader, and certainly not a great orator. But he was the leader of the greatest power on earth, who believed in that power, but equally believed in its restraint. He may turn out to have been the last of that kind: Barack Obama believes in American power too little, Donald Trump too much. To understand Bushs psychology, compare him with Edwardian British statesmen  born to wealth, education, and global sway, but also to a sense of public duty that was lifelong. To him, leading the free world was not an ideological mission or an exciting adventure story, but a heavy responsibility.  Charles Moore, Daily Telegraph

He transformed global relations  Robert Zoellick, FT

His special relationship with the Queen  Daily Mail

The Times calls on Osamor to apologise for threatening their reporter

Former standards commissioner questions her fitness to be an MP  The Times

She has been banned from Wikipedia for repeatedly trying to delete awkward facts from her page  The Sun

Her son is still living off the public purse  Daily Mail

How did it become so easy for the powerful to threaten journalists with violence?  Jane Merrick, The Times

Batten backed by UKIP executive  The Guardian

Qatar to quit OPEC

When The Times uncovered evidence which showed that Kate Osamor, the Labour MP for Edmonton, had not only known about her sons arrest for drugs offences  about which she had denied all knowledge until his conviction in October  but had even written a letter to the judge pleading for leniency, our reporter went to Ms Osamors house to ask for her reaction to our story. Ms Osamors response was to tell our reporter that she should have come down here with a bat and smashed your face in. She told him to f*** off, called police after accusing him of stalking her and hurled a bucket of water at him. This was an outrageous way to treat our colleague. Ms Osamor has now rightly resigned from her job as the shadow international development secretary. Yet it is telling that her resignation statement included no acknowledgement that she had lied about her knowledge of her sons drug arrest nor did it contain any word of apology to The Times or our reporter. Similarly the statement by Jeremy Corbyn, the Labour leader, accepting her resignation included no criticism of her behaviour.  The Times Leader

Qatar will quit Opec from next year, a group that it has been a part of since 1961, the countrys energy minister said on Monday. Saad al-Kaabi told reporters the decision to leave the cartel of big oil exporting countries came after Qatar had reviewed the ways it could enhance its role abroad while shifting the focus of the country towards gas. Qatar has decided to withdraw its membership form Opec effective January 2019 and this decision was communicated to Opec this morning, he said. The move comes amid a deteriorating political situation between Qatar and its neighbours. Four Arab states  Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt  have imposed a trade and travel embargo on the country since June last year over allegations that Qatar supports terrorism. The oil price surged on Monday after the US and China agreed to a 90-day truce in their trade war.  FT

Jailed students wife was told to keep quiet by same Foreign Office officials who signed a deal with his captors  Daily Telegraph

Hong Kong under threat  FT

Macron calls crisis summit after rioting across France

News in Brief

Vegans want metaphors rewritten to be harm-free  Daily Mail

Revenge of the Segway  Unherd

Stark evidence of everyday racism  The Guardian

The roots of populism  New Statesman

Nigerian president denies he is a clone who has replaced original version of himself  Huffington Post

Mr Macron summoned senior ministers and police chiefs for an emergency meeting at the Elysee Palace yesterday to discuss the response to protests that have wreaked havoc in French cities. The unrest began as a movement against fuel tax rises but has turned into the most formidable challenge yet to Mr Macrons economic policies, drawing anarchists and far-right thugs into the fray. Police arrested more than 400 people in Paris on Saturday and said that 133 were injured. Security forces used 10,000 tear gas canisters and stun grenades as well as water cannon. Monuments were vandalised and covered with anti-government slogans. While rejecting a return to a state of emergency, the last of which ran for almost two years after the terrorist attacks of November 2015, Mr Macron told Christophe Castaner, the interior minister, to adapt the methods used for maintaining order. This reflected ministers deep concern that Frances two riot police forces had failed to contain protests on successive Saturdays.  The TimesCllr James Hockney represents Bush Hill Park Ward on Enfield Council.

Going into the Bush Hill Park by-election in Edmonton looked to be a challenging prospect. Whilst we won all three seats in May, it was only just, with a 64-vote majority over the nearest Labour candidate. Following our win, one of the Ward Councillors was suspended for comments made in the Council chamber, and the other stood down, triggering the by-election.

In these circumstances the opposition made much of us being down to one councillor from three in such a short space of time. Added to this, Labour re-selected their nearest challenger, who, like me lived in the Ward. Bush Hill Park was also a heavily pro-remain seat. This was going to be an interesting by-election.

Two national election websites predicted a Labour gain also, but this only made us more determined not to allow this to happen.

So how did we win by such a decisive margin? I will cover this in five parts;

Sheer hard work

Running my business from home gave me the added flexibility to fight a very high-profile campaign. Over the six-week campaign, we were out twice a day, six days a week canvassing and delivering across the weekends. In all, we completed 66 campaign sessions, which meant that I was able to see a substantial number of residents.

Keep it local

This was always a local election  for residents to decide who their local Councillor was going to be  not about Brexit or any other national issue. All our material was on local issues, and it was noticeable that as the campaign progressed, we set the narrative. In particular, we focused on the Labour Councils proposals to move from weekly to fortnightly blue and black bin collections.

We also delivered three leaflets, with targeted material in the final stages of the campaign, in addition to utilising social media including three campaign vlogs.

Team effort

In addition to a small team regularly canvassing, we recognised that this would not be enough. Labour had three local MPs and a large team of Councillors, before you even consider the activist base they have. We successfully managed to secure activists visiting from all over Enfield, London (and sometimes further afield). Whilst Labour still had the advantage of activists, it considerably narrowed this and kept us competitive.

Labour issues

The new Labour administration and local Labour MP both experienced adverse headlines in the media during the campaign. Many residents were upset by this, although it is difficult to know how much of a part this played in the overall result.

An experienced campaign team

It was all thanks to Adrian, Reece, Clare, Joanne, and Lee during the campaign. In addition to my own experience of over 18 years, within the team I also had two current Councillors, two former Councillors, and the Borough Campaign Manager all advising on the campaign. This experience meant that we were clear on what our focuses were right through the campaign.

The end result

Well, we won! With the above effort and focus, we turned a majority of under 100 votes (and in difficult circumstances) to a majority of over 700 votes on a lower turnout. To be honest, this is still sinking in. We knew we ran a great campaign, which provided the opportunity to win, but no one in the team expected a result of this magnitude.

The result meant a direct swing in support from Labour to Conservatives of 11 per cent. That meant a two-point win in May, expanding to a twenty-four-point win in November.

Over the next three and a half years, my focus will be on delivering for the residents of Bush Hill Park and building on this result.Lord Bridges of Headley was Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Exiting the European Union until June 2017, when he resigned.

Do you think that Parliament should honour the result of the referendum and withdraw from the European Union? This is the simple question at the heart of the debate over the Governments deal.

If your answer is no, then dont bother reading any further. Obviously you cant support any deal  you want the UK to remain in the EU. If youre a Leaver, I suspect your answer is a resounding, deafening yes. I agree  as a Remainer, and a Conservative whose party was elected on manifesto that clearly stated the United Kingdom is leaving the European Union. (Labour MPs were elected on a manifesto that stated Labour accepts the referendum result.)

This then begs the next question: is it in our national interest to agree to the deal on offer? To answer that you need to examine both the deal itself, and then the consequences of Parliament rejecting it.

There is much to dislike about the deal  especially the vice of the backstop in the Withdrawal Agreement, and the vagueness of much of the Political Declaration. But this outcome should not have come as any surprise to anyone. It is the result of multiple failures. Failure to be honest about the need for compromise. Failure to answer clearly the question what matters more  our sovereignty or access to EU markets?, and then to create a clear consensus in the Cabinet before triggering Article 50. Failure to prepare effectively for no deal. Failure to reject the concept of the Irish backstop. Failure to win a majority in the last general election, making it much more difficult to secure Parliamentary backing for an agreement, or for no deal.

The product of all this is a deal which, once signed, will enshrine the backstop in law, give the EU the divorce cheque, and thereby strip us of much of our negotiating leverage in the next phase of the negotiations. And yes, that could mean us falling into the customs union backstop, from which we could only escape with the EUs permission.

That said, consider what the deal would deliver. The core, fundamental point is we will leave, period. We will enter a transition agreement. We will be out of the EUs political union. Todays payments to the EU will stop. More than that, amidst the verbiage the political declaration, the silhouette of the final deal is becoming clear. It amounts to something that the EU has long resisted: splitting up the four freedoms. We would have complete control over immigration. The UK would  it seems  remain close to the EU on the regulation of goods, but would have more control over our services, which amount to 80 per cent of the economy. The supremacy (but not the entire role) of the ECJ would be over. We would be out of the Common Agricultural Policy and the Common Fisheries Policy.

The scale of criticism directed at this approach reflects an obvious point: like most compromises, people on both sides of the debate dislike it. But if we want to leave with an agreement, compromise between Leave and Remainers, and with the EU, was always going to be inevitable. And this compromise appears to deliver on the priority for Leavers and Conservatives: immigration. YouGov asked Leave voters to say whether trade policy or control over our borders were more important to them in assessing the Brexit negotiation: 55 per cent said immigration, 28 per cent trade. Among Conservative voters, 49 per cent said immigration, 34 per cent trade.

So yes, there is devil in the detail of this agreement. But it is a devil we know. The same cannot be said for what happens if this deal is voted down. The only outcome we can then be certain about is uncertainty.

Option one  asserted by many Leavers  is the UK leaves without a deal. Put aside whether the UK is ready for this outcome (which is highly dubious): the key point is the majority in the Commons appear to oppose a no deal Brexit. True, the Commons cannot pass a motion that binds the Governments hands. But on an issue of this scale, the Government cannot ignore a motion as if it were graffiti. It will need to act.

And so we get to option two: the Government tries to renegotiate the deal with the EU. Some claim the Government could modify the backstop, or get it dropped entirely. Dream on. The EU have always seen the backstop as a solution that cannot be ended by one party  that would defeat its purpose. They are unlikely to scrap it even if we were to say now lets join the EEA: thats our future relationship, which is for the next phase of the negotiation. (And thats before one considers whether the Conservative Party would accept not taking back control of immigration.)

Enter option three: we extend the Article 50 negotiating period and delay Brexit. Parliament and all the EU member states would have to agree to this. Would they? How long would the extension period last? And unless the deal were to be radically revised (unlikely, as Ive said), why would the result not also be rejected by Parliament?

The signals from Brussels suggest that the EU would only extend Article 50 if there were to be a material change in the political situation here. And so that brings us to option four: we have a general election. This still seems unlikely, given the only thing on which there is a Parliamentary majority is a wish to avoid one.

So that leaves option five: a second referendum, now apparently seen as inevitable by Labour if there is no general election. And this is what should really concentrate the mind. For if you agree with the very first point  that we must honour the referendum and leave the EU  then do you want to risk this?

If the answer to that question is yes, and you want a second referendum, is there a majority in Parliamentary to extend Article 50 (as we would need to time to get the legislation through Parliament)? Is there a majority in Parliament to vote for another referendum? What would the questions be? Would voters be asked to support this deal  even though we are not clear on the final destination? And imagine the public voted again to leave: given Parliament does not support leaving without a deal but does not agree on this deal, what is to say we wont land up back precisely where we are now?

This deal is not perfect. Compromises rarely are  and this Government has exacerbated the situation by its handling of the negotiations. But the time for debating preferences and options is over. Now we have to make a decision and choose. The devil you know or the devil you dont. Compromise or chaos. If you want to be sure that Brexit happens, however much you might dislike this deal, there is only one course of action  vote for it.Lord Flight is Chairman of Flight & Partners Recovery Fund, and is a former Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury.

It is extraordinary that the Prime Minister does not appear to pay heed to the advice of legal experts like Martin Howe, or members of her own Cabinet and leading Conservative Party activists. The only rationalisation is that she fears a no deal on WTO terms and has allowed herself to be influenced by the misleading propaganda here. Most of the world trades perfectly happily and effectively on WTO terms. But she has also concluded that she cannot get a better deal from the EU than the one she now has. She has thus ended up with the opposite of what she promised  a bad deal which is worse than no deal.

Under the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement, we would hand over 39 billion with nothing guaranteed in return. We would remain a rule taker over large areas of EU law, such as social, environmental and employment policies. We would be obliged to obey EU laws, but with no further influence on how they are drafted. Potentially worst of all, we would have no exit from a customs union.

A joint committee would be charged with overseeing the UKs ability to proceed to a further trade relationship. If an agreement cannot be reached the UK, would enter a backstop-enabled customs union with the EU, despite manifesto and public assurance commitments to the contrary. We could only leave it with the agreement of the EU and, whilst remaining in it, we could not negotiate our own trade deals without EU permission. Having witnessed the EUs behaviour in the negotiations to date, it is clearly not to be trusted to behave decently in future negotiations under Mays Chequers agreement.

Domestically, the agreement creates internal borders within the UK. Northern Ireland would become a rule taker. This is completely unacceptable to us, and to the Democratic Unionist Party.

The European Court of Justice would remain in control of the agreement and of major areas of EU law, effective in the UK. This Withdrawal Agreement would leave us half in and half out of the EU as a vassal state, bound by many laws over which we have no influence. Such a deal is a denial of the votes of 17.4 million people to leave the EU.Nicky Morgan is Chair of the Treasury Select Committee, a former Education Secretary, and MP for Loughborough.

Getting back to my constituency and away from Westminster is very welcome at the moment. A weekend of Christmas tree festivals, Santa Fun Runs and shop window competitions is a good reminder that life does go on  even if Westminster politics feels as if it is in melt-down. I did wonder for a moment if, for the same reason, the Prime Minister might decide that Argentina is a good place to move to, and that we might not see her again in SW1 after the G20 summit.

But amidst the snow scenes and flashing lights, Brexit is never far away. And it is noticeable this year that constituents who would never normally comment on political events are all wanting reassurances from their MP about where the negotiation and parliamentary process is headed. I wish I could provide more guidance.

This is aside from the hundreds of e-mails Im now receiving from constituents which cover every conceivable shade of opinion on Brexit  confirming just what a divided country we still are on this critical issue. On Friday morning a constituent assailed me with: Are we doomed, Mrs Morgan? I replied that we were not, and that there would be a way through the apparent impasse. He looked unconvinced, and said that he has been explaining Brexit as being like a jam doughnutthe trouble being that at the moment it looks as if we have the half without the jam in.

But wasnt it always going to be the case that a process as significant, polarising and complex as Brexit would result in no one getting what they wanted?

My views on the Prime Ministers proposed Withdrawal Agreement and the draft political declaration havent really changed since my last ConservativeHome column. But I am more alarmed by how definite so many of my fellow MPs are that this is a terrible deal, and that it must be opposed  not because they have an alternative plan, but because they hope to either secure a second referendum or because they would prefer a no deal hard Brexit. For reasons set out by me and others, I believe both courses of action would be supremely damaging to the long-term interests of the United Kingdom.

But, as I previously warned, if the draft agreement is voted down and  as seems more likely now  more Conservative MPs (i.e: Sam Gyimah) speak out in favour of a second referendum, and if the Labour party changes its official views on a poll, the Brexiteers who hate this deal may find they end up with a second vote in which the only options on the table are the deal theyve rejected in the Commons or remaining in the EU.

Indeed, the only credible alternative plan is a Norway Plus option. Nick Boles, its main protagonist on our benches in the Commons, has been open to taking on board comments and criticisms of the optionm and those changes are fully reflected on the website www.betterbrexit.org. This may well be where Parliament ends up  but it may take the ruling out of all other options before we get there. And if Parliament ends up reaching some form of consensus view, then the Government will have to adopt it, too.

And all the time this is going on, there are key debates about issues such as police funding, homelessness, social care funding and immigration which remain in the background when they should be front and centre of our politics. It is all very well for Caroline Lucas (and others) to write about all the issues theyd like to see addressed by the UK Government and politicians. But for as long as she (and those others) keep pushing the option of a second vote and oppose the proposed deal, then the airtime and Whitehall bandwith to deal with these other issues remains completely constrained.

During the next eight days, MPs must prove ourselves worthy of the positions we hold. Our actions will be scrutinised as never before. The stakes are high, and the alternatives need to be weighed very carefully. We cannot know for certain what the consequences of voting the Withdrawal Agreement down would be, but doing so will not provide certainty or stability. This is truly a vote in which, for decades to come, we will be asked to justify how we voted and why we voted the way we did.Brexit is having an electrifying effect on Parliament. The Attorney General, Geoffrey Cox, was by turns trenchant, melodramatic, defiant, humorous, self-important, self-deprecating, penetrating, rueful and unyielding as he upheld the Governments deal.

His rich, deep, sonorous, well-modulated voice makes him sound like one of the great actor managers of Edwardian times, appealing to his listeners emotions and love of spectacle as well as to their understanding. Here is a performer who projects what he wants to say as if he were still in the pre-microphone age, which in many of the courts where he appeared as an advocate was perhaps the case.

Like a stag at bay, the Attorney refused to comply with a Commons motion requiring him to release the legal advice he has given the Government on its Brexit deal, insisting over and over again that to so would not be in the national interest, words to which he imparted a tremulous note of pathos. Only a man deficient in any sense of honour, he implied, would so betray his country as to publish advice which could hinder our negotiators.

But Cox sought to temper his defiance, and render it acceptable to MPs, by answering with uncompromising and rigorous fidelity their questions, and by promising to be as straight with them as he is with ministers. He said that in the end, the question of whether or not to accept the deal is not one of lawfulness but of prudence.

Nick Thomas-Symonds, from the Labour front bench, accused him of showing contempt for Parliament. The Attorney replied that all Thomas-Symonds has to do, on any legal question about Brexit, is to ask and he will receive. Here the cadence was biblical.

Cox agreed there is no unilateral right to terminate the Northern Ireland backstop, admitted he would have preferred to see such a right included in the deal, but contended that the European Union would have no motive to remain in the backstop indefinitely, and would, indeed, find it even more irksome than the United Kingdom did, and highly vulnerable to legal challenge, so would be even keener to bring it to an end.

In other words, the backstop represents a sensible compromise. How fervently David Lidington, Theresa Mays right-hand man in Downing Street, nodded as he said those words.

Nigel Dodds, for the Democratic Unionists, refused to be persuaded by Coxs deeply unattractive, unsatisfactory presentation. Cox replied that he had himself wrestled with the question because I am a Unionist, but had decided the backstop was as much an instrument of pain to the EU as to the UK.

Harriet Harman, from the Labour backbenches, told him the Government could not openly defy the will of the House. Cox replied: I am caught in an acute clash of constitutional principle. So he did not pretend the arguments were all on his side, but said that as Attorney General he could not act regardless of the harm to the public interest.

Jacob Rees-Mogg said it was not for the Government to judge whether or not to release papers which the Commons had demanded. Cox wondered where this doctrine ended. Did it extend to the papers of the Secret Service?

Turning to the Opposition benches, the Attorney said they could bay and shout, but it was time for them to grow up and get real, for the public interest was at stake.

When they shouted at him that he was being arrogant, he replied that on the contrary, he wished he could comply with the request of the House, but he simply couldnt. By this stage one almost felt one was listening to Martin Luther saying I can do no other.

He added that on all points of law I have givenmy starkest judgment about what the situation truly is, and repeated that in his opinion, the backstop will not last indefinitely. For all his histrionics, Cox sounded deeply sincere, in a manner politicians very seldom achieve when they are defending prudence, moderation and compromise.

I apologise for being so slow to file this report. It is hard to tear oneself away from listening to Cox, and hard also to give any proper idea of his forcefulness. I have never heard a more majestic counterblast to all those who think the Governments proposed deal is a sellout.May says Brexit will happen on time. Gove says that it may not happen at all. Which is it?

Theresa May confirmed in the Commons on November 21 that Britain will leave the EU on March 29 next year. I can give [Esther McVey] the assurance that the United Kingdom will leave the European Union on 29 March 2019, she said.

Michael Gove said on Sunday we have got to recognise that if we dont vote for [the Prime Ministers deal], the alternatives are no deal or no Brexit. (Other Ministers have been putting the same point.)

It therefore follows either that what the Prime Minister said is true, or that what the Environment Secretary said is true, but not both  at least, in any government that May leads.

Could the Prime Minister clear the matter up by confirming that her reply to McVey stands? The question is important enough for us to keep asking it daily until there is clarity.We are analyzing the site. Please wait a few seconds..100%

Website unachi.ac.pa 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 250383 by Alexa. It supports HTTPS. The main html page has a size of 44444 bytes (43.40 kb uncompressed).

This CoolSocial report was updated on 2020-11-21, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want.Before it was the global financial crisis, we called it the subprime crisis. The slow, painful recovery, and the ever-widening income and wealth inequality, are the results of policy choices made before and after the crisis. Before 2007, legislators and regulators cheered on risky subprime mortgage lending as the "democratization of credit." High-rate, high-fee mortgages transferred income massively from working- and middle-class buyers and owners of homes to securities investors.

After the crisis, policymakers had a choice, to allocate the trillions in wealth losses to investors, borrowers or taxpayers. U.S. policy was for taxpayers to lend to banks until the borrowers had finished absorbing all the losses. The roughly $400 billion taxpayers lent out to banks via the TARP bailout was mostly repaid, apart from about $30 billion in incentives paid to the mortgage industry to support about 2 million home loan modifications, and $12 billion spent to rescue the US auto industry. The $190 billion Fannie/Freddie bailout has also returned a profit to the US Treasury. Banks recovered quickly and are now earning $200 billion in annual profits. Of course, equity investors, particularly those wiped out by Lehman and many other bankruptcies, or by the global downturn generally, lost trillions as well. The long-term impact, however, was to shift corporate debt to government balance sheets, while leaving households overleveraged.

Thomas Herndon has calculated that 2008-2014 subprime mortgage modifications added $20 billion to homeowner debt (eroding wealth by $20 billion). In other words, all the modification and workout programs of the Bush and Obama administrations did not reduce homeowner debt by a penny. In fact, mortgage lenders added $20 billion (net) fees and interest onto the backs of distressed homeowners. During the same period, $600 billion in foreclosure losses were written off by private mortgage-backed securities investors, implying a similar or greater loss in wealth for foreclosed homeowners. These data include only the private-label side of the housing finance market; adding the debt increase and wealth losses for Fannie and Freddie homeowners could conceivably double the totals.

Nearly 9 million homes were foreclosed from 2007 to 2016. While some were investor-owned, even those often resulted in the eviction of tenant families. Four and one-half million homeowners still remain underwater, i.e. owe more mortgage debt than the value of their home.

While baby boomers' housing wealth was decimated by foreclosures and increasing mortgage debt, millennials piled on student loan debt, closing the door to home buying and asset building. A recovery built on incomplete deleveraging, and new waves of consumer debt buildup, contains the seeds of the next crisis. While various pundits bemoan the resurgent federal fiscal debt, we would do well to address policies that continue to stoke unsustainable household debt.South Americas first local year-round operation is set to start next year as Pampa Cruises will start cruise service in January.

The Argentina-based cruise line has acquired the 1974-built Salamis Filoxenia, which will arrive in South America later this month.

The Salamis Filoxenia, ex-Van Gogh, has just drydocked in Greece and will be renamed Arrecife and will be our vessel, said Milton Sanches, director of operations and sales in Brazil.

Sanches is a veteran of the local cruise industry, having chartered ships before under his own brand, BCR, and having worked for various cruise lines and local operators such as Pullmantur and CVC.

Previous plans to charter the Delphin on a five-year deal were put on hold as the ship is currently laid up in Croatia.

We are planning our first cruise for January 23, Sanches told Cruise Industry News.

The Arrecife will sail 33 cruises from Recife from January to June, ranging from three to six nights, calling on Fernando de Noronha island. Other port stops include Cabedelo, Natal and Maceio. All scheduled port calls are relatively unique when compared to itineraries run by other operators in South America.

Repositioning cruises are set for June, departing from Recife and Santos as the vessel moves to Buenos Aires for her summer program.

Launched in 1975 as the Gruziya, the Arrecife was originally a cruise ferry. In the 1980s the ship was converted to full-time cruising and was last refurbished in 2002. The 800-guest vessel was sold to the Cyprus-based Salamis Cruise Line in 2009. According to Pampa, the vessel is registered in the Bahamas and classified by Lloyds Register.Welcome Guest! You Are Here:

Home Regional News EastTwo of the nations largest owners of local television stations, including stations here in Connecticut, are joining forces, according to a report by Reuters.

Nexstar Media Group is reportedly spending $4.1 billion to acquire Tribune Media, Reuters, Bloomberg and Variety reported on Sunday, citing broadcast industry sources .Nexstar owns television stations WTNH (News 8) and WCTX New Haven while Tribune Media owns WTIC-TV Fox 61 and WCCT in Hartford.

The deal, if approved by regulators, would create the largest local television station operator in the country, according to Reuters, which cited sources it said were close to the deal. The deal is expected to be announced Monday, according to Reuters.

Irving Texas-based Nexstar owns, operates, programs or provides sales and other services to 170 television stations that reach 38.7 percent of all U.S. television households. Tribune Broadcasting has 42 owned or operated stations that reach 50 million households as well as a national cable network, WGN America, which reaches nearly 80 million homes.

More Business On eve of Fox buy, Disney preps big release schedule

Rich Hanley, an associate professor of journalism at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, said he did not expect the Federal Communications Commission to oppose the merger. The FCC oversees the broadcast licenses that television stations use to broadcast on the public airwaves.

The FCC is not unfriendly to duopolies, Hanley said, using a term that refers to when two or more stations in a television market share a common ownership. The Hartford-New Haven television market is the 30th largest in the United States, according to Hanley.

But without seeing the specific terms of the reported merger between the two companies, he said it would be difficult to say whether or not Nexstar would be forced to sell one of the four TV stations in order secure approval of the deal from the FCC.

Its really too soon to say if that would happen, Hanley said. And Nexstar might decide to divest itself of some broadcast properties after a deal is approved.

The deal comes just three months after a $3.9 billion deal by Maryland-based Sinclair Broadcasting to acquire Tribune Media collapsed over regulatory hurdles.

If the FCC approves the Nexstar-Tribune Media merger, Hanley said, outside groups could challenge the deal in court.

They could claim there is not enough diversity in broadcast ownership and tie it up in the courts for a while, he said.

Hanley said he does not expect that Nexstar would try to achieve any cost savings by cutting news gathering functions at either station.

For one thing, both newsrooms are run pretty efficiently, Hanley said. For another, Fox 61 produces a tremendous amount of news programming, which means not having to pay syndication fees or other types of costs.

Local television stations are considered attractive because they are major revenue generators, he said, especially during years when political advertising abounds. But Hanley also said General Motors recent announcement that it is reducing the number of different models of cars it will produce could result in local stations taking a hit in advertising revenue.

luther.turmelle@hearstmediact.comLongtime Greenwich resident Scott Mitchell, a partner at Mitchells Stores, including Richards of Greenwich, has passed the chairmanship of the Stamford-based SoundWaters to Douglas Bora of Darien.

Bora was unanimously elected as the new chairman at SoundWaters by the board of directors during the organizations annual meeting last month.

As board chairman since 2013, Mitchell shepherded SoundWaters through a period of growth in students served, fundraising and awareness. The organization teaches the science of Long Island Sound annually to more than 30,000 students from 150 schools in 65 communities in Connecticut and New York.

Mitchell will remain as a member of the board of directors and chairman of the capital campaign to build the SoundWaters Harbor Academy on Stamford Harbor, projected to open in 2021.

I have been honored to serve on the SoundWaters board since 2004 and especially for the past five years as chairman, he said. I was blessed to grow up sailing small boats on Long Island Sound, but until I started working with SoundWaters, I had no idea how few children get that incredible experience and how critical it is to the preservation of the Sound that we get every child onto the water.

He is most proud that fundraising by SoundWaters has enabled us to work with so many thousands of students regardless of their ability to pay.

As SoundWaters seventh board chair in its 29-year history, Bora will lead a 30-person board of directors to assist SoundWaters president, Leigh Shemitz, and her team, to grow the organization.

An avid sailor and member of the Noroton Yacht Club, Bora is managing director of Norwalk-based Spinnaker Real Estate Partners, a real estate development company engaged in the acquisition, development, ownership and management of commercial and residential properties.

I am honored and excited for the opportunity to work with my fellow directors and with Leigh and her outstanding staff to grow SoundWaters positive impact in our communities, he said. Long Island Sound is our largest and most precious natural resource and the work we do at SoundWaters with so many young people and adults is improving the health of the Sound today and will protect it for generations.

SoundWaters, founded in 1989, is an environmental education organization focused on the protection of Long Island Sound and its watershed. For more information, visit SoundWaters.org.

   

Three new members have been elected to the board of directors at the Community Centers Inc. of Greenwich. They are:

* Stuart Adelberg, who has been serving as the CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County since 2015. He was with the Greenwich United way from 1999 to 2015, with his final role as president. Adelberg, a graduate of Greenwich High School and Connecticut College, lives with his wife, Marilyn, in Old Greenwich; they have one son.

* Ralph Mayo, interim superintendent of the Greenwich Public Schools. Mayo, who has educated students and provided leadership in the Greenwich Public Schools for 41 years, is also an adjunct professor at Mercy College. He received a bachelors degree in secondary education-English from Southern Connecticut State University; a masters degree in special education and a certificate of advanced study in educational administration from Fairfield University; and completed the NEAG School of Educations executive leadership program at the University of Connecticut.

* Nicholas Barile, who after working for one of the largest firms in Westchester County, N.Y., for over 16 years, started his own development firm in Greenwich. His company has earned five industry awards for excellence. Nick also runs BLR Capital Partners, a real estate finance company also based in Greenwich. He lives in Riverside and has been married to his wife, Jill, for 25 years. They have two children.

CCI is a Greenwich-based social service agency dedicated to building skills that empower clients to overcome educational, social and economic barriers. CCI has been serving Greenwich residents for nearly 65 years. For more information, visit ccigreenwich.org.BRIDGEPORT  Count a majority of the city school board in. They want a brand new Bassick High School too.

After a rare Friday evening public hearing, the school board voted 7-2, to approve a lengthy resolution that essentially tells the city school construction committee and States Office of School Construction it prefers and endorses a new Bassick.

It also asks, if possible that the Beau Arts design elements from the original Bassick facade be incorporated into the new structure, as long as the classroom design, finishes, furniture, fixtures, equipment and technology are modern.

Board Chairman John Weldon, along with member Hernan Illingworth, Jessica Martinez, Joe Sokolovic, Sybil Allen, Dennis Bradley and Chris Taylor voted in favor of the motion. Maria Pereira and Ben Walker voted no.

Pereira has led the charge to preserve the 1929 wing of the school that was designed by architect Ernest G. Southey on land donated to the city by the family of industrialist Edmund Chase Bassick. Pereira has been in touch with the families of both.

"The Bassick vote was a tragedy for a variety of reasons, Pereira later said. Those that spoke on behalf of the demolition of the historic and architecturally significant original Bassick (High School) building came from individuals that likely could not spell architecture. Meanwhile, historians, architects, preservationists, and both staff/student alumni articulated sound reasoning for its preservation.

Pereira also criticized Taylor, who during the hearing suggested the Bassick family had been involved in the slave trade.

Bassick never did anything for the people that are in this building now, Taylor said during the meeting on Friday. When he said he would support nothing but a new building, cheers erupted from the audience.

"I am communicating with E. Webb Bassick on next steps, Pereira said, of the oldest known survivor of the Bassick family.

Weldon said motion wasnt either or, because ultimately the decision is not made by the board. He said everyones opinions would be sent to the state.

If they overrule us, they overrule us, Weldon said.

The vote came after the board heard from 18 speakers on both side of the issue, including students who carried signs in support of a brand new Bassick and those who want to preserve the historic nature of the structure.

Bassick is the last of the citys comprehensive high schools to be replaced. The plan was to spend up to $115 million. Depending on the option selected, the state could pay between 69 and 79 percent.

Until recently, officials had been planning on a building large enough to accommodate 1,050 students. A just completed enrollment study by Cooperative Strategies of Ohio, however, found the maximum enrollment projection by the 2023-24 school year will be 911. The calculation took into account birth rates, census data, building permits and historical enrollment data.

Since 2014-15, public school enrollment in the district has declined by 747 students. Bridgeport now has several specialty high schools in addition to its three comprehensives, as well as private schools, charter schools and a technical high school.BRIDGEPORT  A Manchester man was sentenced Monday to 55 years in prison for the Christmas Eve 2016 fatal shooting of a local man during a car show.

Xavier Rivera, who had previously served 12 years in prison in connection with an attempted murder, showed no emotion as he stood before Superior Court Judge John Kavanewsky Jr.

Your disregard for human life tells me you have no moral compass and that society needs to be protected from you, the judge told the 35-year-old Rivera who had been convicted of murder, conspiracy, unlawful restraint and unlawful discharge of a firearm for the death of 28-year-old Miguel Rivera of Bridgeport.

Senior Assistant States Attorney Marc Durso had urged the judge to impose a severe sentence on Rivera.

The sentence should be reflective of the lack of remorse the defendant showed the victim as the victim was begging for his life, Durso said.

Xavier Riveras lawyer, Gary Mastronardi, told the judge that his client maintains his innocence and looks forward to an appeal.

During the two-week trial, Durso presented evidence that on Christmas Eve, the victim had been admiring the Mustangs and Camaros at a weekly gathering of car enthusiasts in the parking lot of AutoZone on North Avenue when a gold Cadillac Deville pulled up.

Xavier Rivera and Moises Pito Contreras got out of the Cadillac and grabbed Miguel Rivera and dragged him into the parking lot next door, according to testimony.

One of the men began yelling, Wheres my (expletive), as they pistol-whipped the victim. They began firing at him and then drove off.

Miguel Rivera, suffering from gunshot wounds to the right leg, left leg, back and torso, managed to stagger down the street before collapsing by the drive-thru window of Popeyes Restaurant. Witnesses testified Xavier Rivera believed the victim had previously burglarized his apartment, stealing cash, sneakers and marijuana.

But the highlight of the trial was when Durso played for the jury a recording of Xavier Rivera admitting to killing the victim that a witness had recorded on his cellphone.

Contreras is awaiting trial in the case.

CORRECTION: The age of Miguel Rivera has been updated to reflect he was 28 at the time of his death, not 33.HARTFORD  Its been more than a year fraught with legal delay tactics by the Insurance Department, but the Freedom of Information Commission is still trying to force the disclosure of documents connected to a pair of separate, multi-billion dollar acquisitions that didnt go through.

Aetna was attempting to buy Humana, and Anthem wanted to purchase Cigna.

Insurance Commissioner Katharine Wade appealed the decision in August 2017 to Superior Court.

The Freedom of Information Commission, which ordered the disclosure of the documents related to the two blocked mergers, expressed its frustration with her teams legal tactics and continued delays in court documents last week.

FOIC Attorney Victor Perpetua said Wade and the Insurance Department have yet to provide any reason the documents related to these proposed mergers should not be made public or at the very least available for an in camera inspection by the commission.

The plaintiffs cannot simply assert that they have placed particular records in a regulatory file, and that by virtue of now being located in that file, the records are categorically exempt from disclosure, Perpetua wrote. It is a defiance of a long-established and well-accepted in camera inspection process

 one that is virtually demanded by our Supreme Court  to refuse to produce records for a confidential inspection based purely on a strained construction of exemption statutes, a construction never formally articulated and never judicially scrutinized.

The documents that a Republican Senator and the Connecticut Campaign for Consumer Choice were trying to obtain were part of an effort to understand why Wade gave the insurance companies her approval.

However, Wade and the Insurance Department argued that she must refuse to confirm or deny even the very fact a confidential insurance filing has occurred. And no matter what is in those records, the FOIC should not be able to inspect the records in camera before making a decision regarding an exemption.

The Insurance Department declined comment Friday on the pending litigation.

Perpetua argues that the FOIC has primary jurisdiction to decide the issue.

But the plaintiffs seek to substitute themselves for the FOI Commission as both factfinder and as the agency responsible to apply the law to those facts, he wrote. And they ask this Court to do the same thing  to make a judgment about what evidence need be produced and what the applicable statutes mean, all without the Commission having an opportunity to apply its construction of the statutes to actual records.

Its last brief filed in September says that it believes its claimed exemptions to the Freedom of Information Act should be determined by a court.

Having never reviewed the documents it has ordered released, FOICs decision is not grounded in substantial evidence, Assistant Attorney General John Langmaid wrote in his brief on behalf of Wade. FOIC has no evidence that release of the documents, as it has ordered, would not result in the disclosure of information the law of this state requires or permits its Insurance Commissioner to keep confidential.

Perpetua argues that Wade could hand over the information for an in camera inspection, which the commissioner has refused to do.

Tom Swan, head of the Connecticut Citizens Action Group and a member of the Connecticut Campaign for Consumer Choice, said the filings might have helped inform the recent CVS acquisition of Aetna.

Commissioner Wades continued unethical behavior stonewalling the publics right to know around the failed Aetna and Humana deal casts a shadow over the subsequent CVS purchase of Aetna, Swan said.

In court documents, Langmaid argued that Humana didnt have any significant market presence in any lines of insurance in Connecticut. He said that means there should be nothing nefarious or surprising in the Insurance Departments decision that it wouldnt impact the insurance market in Connecticut.

The CVS and Aetna merger, which combines CVS pharmacies and Minute Clinics with Aetnas insurance business, was approved last week by regulators.

The process included a three-hour public hearing in October before the determination was made by the Insurance Department to greenlight the merger.

CVS was able to persuade regulators in Connecticut and 27 other states to sign off on the deal after agreeing to a number of conditions like not hiking insurance premiums for the first few years. Aetna also agreed to sell its Medicare Part D business to WellCare Health Plans to ease concerns about market dominance.

By fully integrating Aetnas medical information and analytics with CVS Healths pharmacy data, we can develop new ways to engage consumers in their total health and wellness through personal contacts and deeper collaboration with their primary care physicians, CVS Health President and Chief Executive Officer Larry J. Merlo said last week in a statement. As a result, we expect patients will benefit from earlier interventions and better-connected care, leading to improved health outcomes and lower medical costs.

In October, CVS agreed to keep Aetnas headquarters in Hartford for the next 10 years and will maintain its current staffing level of 5,291 employees in Connecticut for at least the next four years.JERUSALEM - Israeli police on Sunday recommended indicting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on charges of bribery and corruption in a third case - this time on suspicion that the leader eased business regulations for the country's largest telecommunications company in exchange for favorable coverage for him and his wife on a popular news website owned by the firm.

Police have also recommended that media mogul Shaul Elovitch - a close friend of Netanyahu and majority shareholder of Bezeq, the telecoms firm that owns the news site Walla! - be indicted for his role in the affair. Elovitch's wife, Iris, and Netanyahu's wife, Sara, were also implicated in the case, known as Case 4000.

While it is now up to Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit to formally prosecute those involved, Sunday's announcement ramps up pressure on Netanyahu, who faces a raft of legal woes and who, in coming months, could find himself in the throes of early national elections after the departure last month of a key coalition partner left his government teetering on the edge.

His opponents on Sunday called for him to resign as soon as possible in light of the allegations, which follow police recommendations last February to charge him in two other corruption cases, and yet another case against his wife for breach of public trust.

Responding to the most recent charges, Netanyahu questioned the timing and veracity of Sunday's announcement, accusing police of leaking parts of the investigation even before any conclusions were reached.

"Police recommendations have no legal status," he said in a statement. "Only recently, police recommendations in cases against other public figures were rejected by the relevant authorities. I am certain that after considering the matters the same conclusion will be reached in this case as well."

Netanyahu reiterated a phrase he has used since all the investigations against him were launched more than two years ago - "that there was nothing because there is nothing."

When police initially said he should be charged, Netanyahu said it was an attempt by his opponents to unseat him through corruption allegations because they couldn't win at the ballot box. Now he appears to be facing the challenge of both - legal charges and an election.

"The question is what will happen first: Will the attorney general decide to prosecute or will the government collapse?" said Reuven Hazan, a professor of political science at Hebrew University of Jerusalem. "If there is an election first and Netanyahu wins with everyone knowing about his legal issues, then he can say that despite knowledge of the legal battles, the people still want him."

If the indictment comes first, it is unclear how or if Netanyahu will be able to remain prime minister.

In a statement Sunday, police said it had evidence to show that during the time he served as minister of communication from 2014 to 2017 (while he was also prime minister), Netanyahu intervened with regulators to help Bezeq merge with another large Israeli communications company. In exchange, Elovitch instructed journalists at the news website Walla! to provide favorable coverage of the prime minister and his wife.

"Netanyahu and his associates intervened in a blatant and ongoing manner, sometimes even daily, in the content published by the Walla News website and sought to influence the appointment of senior employees (editors and reporters)," police said.

The website was used to promote the prime minister's personal interests by publishing flattering articles and pictures and removing critical content about him and his family, said the police statement.

Netanyahu's manipulation of Walla! has been widely reported by local media, but last week a fuller expose on Israel's Channel 10 featured both former and present employees of the news site describing in detail how stories were changed or completely removed if they did not flatter the prime minister and his wife.

Opposition leader Avi Gabbay, chairman of the Zionist Union party, called for the prime minister to stand down immediately. "A person with such a sickly obsession with what the media says about him must not lead the State of Israel. Every day he continues in his position harm to the citizens of this country."

In the two other cases where the police have recommended indictments, Netanyahu is also suspected of receiving bribes in exchange for favors. The first case, referred to as Case 1000, involves gifts of cigars and jewelry bestowed by billionaire benefactors such as Israeli-born Hollywood producer Arnon Milchan, whose film credits include "Fight Club" and "Pretty Woman," and Australian businessman James Packer.

The other case, 2000, involves deals made between Netanyahu and Arnon Mozes, publisher of the popular Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth. Information leaked to the Israeli media suggested the agreement would have allowed the prime minister to receive more favorable coverage from the newspaper if he agreed to weaken the status of rival daily newspaper Israel Hayom, owned by U.S. casino magnate Sheldon Adelson.

In November, police announced that Netanyahu was not a suspect in an additional case, 3000, involving the dubious purchase of naval vessels from a German shipbuilder. Indictments were recommended, however, against some of the prime minister's close associates, including his cousin and lawyer David Shimron.

Netanyahu's wife charged with misuse of public funds in 'meals-ordering' affair

Sara Netanyahu is also a suspect in a different corruption case. Last June, she was formally charged by state prosecutors with fraud and breach of public trust for ordering meals to the official prime minister's residence worth a total of $99,000, even though a full-time chef was employed there. An initial hearing has already been held in this case.WESTPORT  Three years ago, Carl Scovens was living in a spacious three-bedroom Norwalk duplex with his wife and teenage daughter.

Scovens was used to splitting bills with this wife but after she died in 2015, he could no longer afford the apartment. Shortly after his wifes death, he donated or sold most of his belongings and moved in with a relative, who offered him and his daughter temporary shelter.

The offer brought Scovens, a diabetic, a sense of relief, especially on nights following dialysis treatment.

But soon after, he found himself looking for another place to live after he and his relative had a disagreement. The relative said his daughter could stay, but Scovens had to leave.

For almost two weeks, Scovens lived at a Bridgeport mens shelter that had a curfew and a cellphone ban, an issue for anyone with health problems, he said.

After calling other relatives, who said they couldnt support him, he finally reached a cousin, who mentioned Homes with Hope, a Westport-based nonprofit that provides emergency and supportive housing to people in Fairfield County and beyond.

He asked for a place to stay and after about two weeks, staff found him a room.

I had tears coming down my face because I needed a place to stay, Scovens said. Every day from lunch and dinner, Im here.

Program Director Ryan Soto said he knew stable housing would help Scovens manage his medical condition.

Dialysis works when youre in a stress-free environment, so I did my due diligence and as soon as I found something, I let him know, said Soto, who also works as a certified nurses assistant. I knew what type of situation he was in and thats not something Id want someone to be dealing with.

Homes with Hope has 50 emergency beds and 67 permanent supportive housing beds in 10 locations.

We dont really turn anyone away, Soto said. People have traveled from as far as Armonk, New York, he added.

Homes with Hope formed in December 1983 and opened as a homeless shelter for single men. Over time, it expanded from offering shelter and food  each year they provide about 3,000 bags of food to people in need  to other supports like mentorship, youth education and life skills.

The mission is to prevent homelessness and help those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and we do it through supportive housing, said President and CEO Jeff Wieser. So, our goal is to get everybody in a house and keep them housed.

Many people are one paycheck away from homelessness, Wieser said. Weve had Ph.Ds in here, weve had VPs of companies in here, weve had poor people in here. It could happen to anybody and weve seen it happen to anybody.

Mental illness, a lack of affordable housing, job-related issues and physical health problems are among the top reasons people seek the shelters services, said Paris Looney, vice president and chief operating officer.

She said housing is one of the most basic necessities, something Wieser agreed with.

If you dont have a roof over your head, you cant look for a job, you cant wash your clothes, you cant do anything. Thats the absolute basis to stability, Wieser said. Once you get an apartment, you can start thinking about a job.

Homes with Hope collaborates with Family & Childrens Agency, Mid-Fairfield Aids Project, Open Door Shelter and other organizations. Its funded primarily by private donors and state and town governments.

It is very validating to get financial support from the community. Its a sign that the community wants a homeless shelter in Westport, Wieser said.

Since Scovens doesnt have to worry anymore about immediate housing, hes working on securing subsidized housing, which hes eligible for, due to his medical diagnosis.

Soto said Scovens also hopes to reunite soon with his daughter, who moved in with her grandmother, and theres a chance it could happen by the end of the year.After a quiet, pomp-filled ceremony this morning at Ellington Airport, former President George H. W. Bush's remains arrived at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland aboard "Special Mission 41."

The ceremony at Ellington marked the beginning of a four-day mourning period that will stretch from Houston to Washington D.C. and back to Texas.

In Houston, the city which Bush called home and where he returned after his years in the White House, events began Monday morning with a departure ceremony at the Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home on Bering.

Around 9 a.m., neighbors and mourners began to line up along Bering to pay their respects to the former president. Less than an hour later, a hearse carrying Bush's remains -- escorted by a slew of Houston police motorcycle officers -- led a small convoy of mourners and dignitaries from the funeral home in Tanglewood to Ellington Airport, on the city's southeast side.

Authorities shut down the southbound portion of the West Loop to allow the convoy to travel unimpeded on the 30-mile journey to Ellington. Along the way, numerous northbound motorists could be seen stopping to photograph the convoy as it passed.

At approximately 10:40 a.m., the convoy arrived at the airport, where it was greeted by hundreds of family members, friends and local dignitaries as well as a military honor guard.

A few hundred people lined the streets near the main entrance to Ellington Airport to bid a farewell to the president.

For some, it was a chance to be part of history, while others had personal memories.

Steve Blevins, a 71-year-old retired employee of Kellogg Brown and Root, had met the president while jogging at Memorial Park. As he and his wife, Karen, waited at the corner of Dixie Farm Road for a glimpse of the motorcade, he recalled the former president's kindness and approachability.

"He was kind enough to actually talk to us, so that and all the wonderful things he did, we're here to honor his service," Blevins said.

Josh and Nicole Crippen held onto a large Texas flag, referencing Bush's adopted home state.

"He was our president, he was a standup guy, and he was a Texan," Josh Crippen said.

Nicole Crippen, 33, is a Clear Lake native and grew up aware that most presidents pass through Ellington at some point. She hasn't seen them all, but wanted to be here for Bush.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime thing," she said.

Roseann Garcia Peters stood in the crowd as well. She said her late father, Raul Garcia, was one of the first Latino Republicans in Houston's East end community in the 1960s and later campaigned for Bush. She said her father also attended Bush's presidential inauguration.

When her father became ill in 2002, Bush sent him a letter -- and another to her family when he died.

"I'm here today to honor a kind and loving person who was very kind to my family," she said.

On the tarmac, a military band played four Ruffles and Flourishes and Hail to the Chief, and service members fired a 21-gun salute before Bush's remains were loaded onto the plane. Family and friends stood with hands over hearts as flags fluttered in the wind.

Then, pallbearers moved the casket to the plane as the band played "Eternal Father, Strong to Save," and loaded it into a trailer embellished with the presidential seal and lifted up to the plane.

The president's final flight on Air Force One has been designated "Special Mission 41," according to McGrath.

Traditionally, the presidential Boeing 747-200Bs are only designated Air Force One when carrying a sitting president. Since President Donald J. Trump will not be traveling on the aircraft as it ferries Bush's remains to and from Washington D.C., the plane has been re-designated to honor Bush this week.

READ MORE: George H. W. Bush's life and legacy

Former President George W. Bush and his wife, Laura Bush, boarded the plane first, at approximately 10:50 a.m. Also with them was Sully H.W. Bush, the late president's yellow Labrador service dog.

The two-year-old lab became the late president's service dog just a few months after the death of former first lady Barbara Bush.

The dog will return to service helping other veterans at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, former President George W. Bush wrote Sunday, in an Instagram post capturing the dog lying in front of Bush's casket.

Shortly after 11 a.m., Special Mission 41 took off from Ellington, under a clear blue sky, as hundreds looked on.

The late president's remains were flown to Joint Base Andrews, in Maryland. After arriving in the DC area, Bush's remains will be taken to the U.S. Capitol to lie in state in the rotunda with a guard of honor in attendance. On Wednesday morning, there will be a funeral at the Washington National Cathedral.

RELATED: George H.W. Bush praised in wake of his death from leaders around the world

In a post on Twitter, McGrath wrote that Bush -- famous for his love of whimsical and boldly colored socks -- will be carried to his final rest wearing a pair that pays tribute to his military service, with several jets flying in formation.



After the the Wednesday funeral, Bush's body will be flown back to Houston to lie in repose at St. Martin's Episcopal Church before a service there at 10 a.m. Thursday.

Following the service, Bush's remains will be taken by motorcade to the Union Pacific Railroad Westfield Auto Facility in Spring then taken by train to the George Bush Presidential Library & Museum in College Station, where he will be interred alongside his wife, Barbara Bush, and their daughter Robin.

Olivia Tallet, Robert Downen, and Keri Blakinger contributed.

For more information, visit Bush's official funeral site.

St. John Barned-Smith covers public safety and major breaking news for the Houston Chronicle. Follow him on Twitter and Facebook. Send tips to st.john.smith@chron.com.Kathmandu, Nepal: Nepal-Bangladesh joint steering committee meeting on energy cooperation kicks off in Kathmandu on Monday.





The secretary level meeting is led by Anup Kumar Upadhyay, secretary at the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation (MoEWRI) from the Nepali side while Secretary of the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources of Bangladesh will lead the Bangladeshi delegation.





A 13-member team of the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources of Bangladesh has already arrived in Kathmandu.



You won't find this gorgeous Spanish Revival home in Los Angeles on many lists of Marilyn Monroe's known residences.

However, those who've lived in the neighborhood for decades have tales to tell of America's most glamorous movie star and her second husband, New York Yankees legend Joe DiMaggio. The celebrity couple were seen in the home before and during their brief marriage in 1954.

The scoop comes from listing agent Neal Baddin of Coldwell Banker, who's been selling real estate for decades in the Outpost Estates area, which is known for old Hollywood glamour.

According to Baddin, one neighbor says she remembers the star couple living in the home, which is now on the market for $2.7 million.

Confirming these stories is an authenticated check, written by Monroe herself, for a $237.82 rental payment on the property. That check was auctioned off for $1,000 in 2015 with the following description:

"Marilyn Monroe signed this check in blue ballpoint pen. The check pertained to her lease at 2393 Castilian Drive, a home she shared with Joe DiMaggio. Marilyn moved into the house on December 15, 1952, when she was seeing Joe DiMaggio and he was still married. He became a permanent feature there inviting friends over for meals while Marilyn was beginning to learn to cook, trying to show Joe how she was settling down."

Monroe and DiMaggio married in 1954, but rumors of relationship problems plagued them before they finished their honeymoon in Japan. They divorced in October of that same year, just 274 days after tying the knot.

The kitchen has been remodeled a number of times since Monroe learned to cook there, but the room's stunning views the couple enjoyed still remain.

"You feel like you're living in the Italian Riviera, with vistas of the canyons and hills that are reminiscent of the beautiful Amalfi Coast," says Baddin.

Original features include the vaulted wood-beam ceilings, a tile roof, plaster walls with arched doorways, tile floors, and balconies and terraces. All of those elements contribute to the Mediterranean aesthetic, according to the agent.

The house measures 3,335 square feet and has four bedrooms and 4.5 baths. It sits on almost an acre of land, which is quite sizable for this historic neighborhood in the hills north of Hollywood Boulevard.

Baddin says in the 1970s a grotto-style pool and spa were added out back, positioned to appear wedged into the cliff side , another detail reminiscent of the hills of Italy.

"You won't find a better value for a home in this neighborhood," says Baddin. The sellers, who bought the home in July for $2.2 million, were planning a major renovation, but changed their minds.

"It's quite an enchanting home," says Baddin, who adds that many of the same features that attracted Monroe and DiMaggio in the '50s can still be appreciated by a buyer today.

The post Storied Love Nest of Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio Is Listed for $2.7M appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com.VUCA. This term is frequently thrown around in boardrooms and strategy sessions across the country. Coined by the US Army War College in the late 1990s, VUCA is an acronym that was originally used to describe the combat conditions facing soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq. It stands for volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous.

While the term initially called for vigilance in military environments, it is commonly used today in professional settings to convey a sense of hand-wringing, shoulder-shrugging anxiety. Civilian boards, executives, and consultants tend to use the term VUCA when they feel as though theyre being held hostage by conditions over which they have zero control. Over the years, Ive heard leaders offer it as an excuse for not setting sights higher, not stretching farther, not working harder to retain or regain market share, and not striving for excellence.

Unfortunately, VUCA has strayed far from its military origins and become a civilian excuse for settling for less. This Eeyore oh-bother victim mentality has a negative impact on the decision-making processespecially when it comes to annual business plans and strategy. So, what is the cure for the adverse effects of VUCA thinking? Perspective. With a proper fact-based perspective, leaders can exhibit more control than they realize over the four VUCA realities.

continue reading Japans Cyber Security Minister Admits He Just Doesn't Get It

Japan's cyber security minister, who gained global notoriety recently when he said he doesn't use a computer, has now admitted he's not that familiar with the whole cyber security field either.

Yoshitaka Sakurada, 68, who also serves as minister for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, faced a parliamentary committee Thursday on the country's new cyber security law.

"I, myself, am not that familiar with" cyber security matters, he told the committee, according to the Japan Times.

"My biggest job is to read out written replies without making any mistakes," he said, referring to responses to questions written for him by his ministry's bureaucrats.

The Japan Times reported that Sakurada even struggled with that role. During the meeting, it reported, there were times when Sakurada failed to read such documents correctly, while he also misunderstood questions from lawmakers and made some inappropriate answers.

An opposition lawmaker said he could harm Japan's economy, to which he replied, "I'm here because a Cabinet minister is needed."

Japan is revising its cyber security law ahead of the Olympics, with an amendment approved on Thursday meant to facilitate information sharing between public and private sectors to ward off possible cyber-attacks.

Sakurada, who was appointed in a cabinet reshuffle in October, has a long-standing reputation for gaffes. In 2016 he described the "comfort women" forced into providing sexual services to the occupying Japanese troops in the past century as "professional prostitutes", sparking an angry response from South Korea.

Last week, he told another parliamentary committee he didn't use a computer.

"I've been doing business independently since I was 25 years old, so I have been giving instructions to employees and secretaries," he said, according to Kyodo News. "I never touch my computer myself."

This week, he expanded on that topic.

"I use a smartphone many times a day because it's very useful," he said. "I've never felt any inconvenience from not being able to type by myself."

He is not alone. US President Donald Trump is reported as not using a computer, though he frequently tweets from his phone.

Sydney Morning Herald:

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Japanese Cybersecurity Minister Does Not Use ComputersSomerset area merchants expect good things on Small Business Saturday

Small businesses across Somerset County are hosting events and specials for the annual crowds of Christmas shoppers.WARSAW: President Bidya Devi Bhandari  who is currently in Poland to participate in the 24th session of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 24) in Katowice  visited various monuments of historical, archaeological and cultural importance.





She observed the Royal Castle and the Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw. The Royal Castle is an artistic palace built by King Sigmond II in 1600 AD. Visitors from various countries come to observe this Castle which has come under different types of attacks in the past.No matter how empty their coffers, Tory treasurers are unlikely to seek any cash from property tycoon Christopher Moran after the revelation that an apartment block he owns is rife with prostitution.

Morans Chelsea Cloisters has been called ten floors of whores.

Multi-millionaire Christopher Moran, 70, is pictured alongside Prince Harry in Belfast in 2017

Oleaginous Moran has donated 300,000 to the Tories, but what is less well known is his directorship of the Conservative Party-owned company, C&UCO Properties.

Set up in 1946, it manages the partys property assets. Other directors include Lord Fink, the former Tory Treasurer, billionaire broker Michael Spencer, who has been described as the richest self-made person in the City, and Tory Party chairman, Brandon Lewis.

The Chelsea Cloisters block (pictured) of 670 apartments  where Mr Moran has an office  earns him millions of pounds in rent and service charges every year

Many of the Chelsea Cloisters prostitutes operated from flats rented from Morans company Realreed, although neither he nor the management knew anything about the activities taking place.

Moran  who lives in a 30-room townhouse in Cheyne Walk which was the Thames-side home of Henry VIIIs Chancellor Thomas More  has been censured several times by the Stock Exchange for controversial share purchases, and is the first person to be barred for life by the insurance market Lloyds of London.

Will he keep his C&UCO role? Hes become such an embarrassment, whispers my Tory mole, saying the final straw may be his front-row presence at the DUPs Belfast conference, where leader Arlene Foster shredded Mrs Mays Brexit deal.

Three women listed on the Divas website as being available in rooms at Chelsea Cloisters

First class, Alan

Alan Johnson, the ex-postie and union boss who became a Labour Cabinet minister, has given his support to the Brexit deal and derided Labour MPs for demanding a second referendum.

Alan Johnson is a union boss who became a Cabinet minister in Labour. He campaigned for Remain in 2016

Writing in the Left-wing New Statesman magazine, Johnson declares: Some of the Labour benches see the meaningful vote as being an opportunity to press for either a Peoples Vote  as if the one in June 2016 was for androids  or a General Election, as if the one in June 2017 would have led to a different outcome if only Labour had won. Hear, hear!

A blooming silly answer, Tulip!

There has been a 90 per cent drop in reports of moped crime in the North London borough of Camden since the police went on the offensive by pushing muggers off their bikes in what are described as risk-assessed tactical contact operations.

Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott is not a fan. So what does one of the boroughs Labour MPs, Tulip Siddiq, make of it?

She doesnt have a strong opinion, said one of her spokesmen. Just what you want from your MP!

Trumpington's salute to the Lords

When Lastminute.com founder Martha Lane Fox became the youngest woman to sit in the Lords in 2013, she was invited to tea by the redoubtable Baroness Trumpington, who died last week aged 96.

Baroness Trumpington was caught on camera in the Lords chamber flicking a V-sign at a fellow Tory peer over what she perceived as a rude remark about her age

The wartime code breaker told her: Dont take this lot as seriously as they take themselves. Sound advice from the woman who famously made a V-sign at a fellow peer . . . and who will be much missed.

Labour MP Wes Streeting, targeted by the hard-Left during the anti-Semitism row that engulfed Jeremy Corbyn, revelled at being auctioneer at the winter fundraiser of Blairite group Progress. Im going to take your money off you faster than John McDonnell in Labours next manifesto, he promised.

Lib Dem peer Lord Allan of Hallam, also Facebooks European policy chief, gave evidence to a Commons committee after his boss Mark Zuckerberg snubbed MPs. It was good to hear Hallams voice! He hasnt spoken in a Lords debate for five years.A novelist who was once plagued by crippling anxiety - and turned his brush with suicide into a bestselling book - has shared his tips for parents on talking to children about mental health.

When Matt Haig was in his mid-20s, he struggled with depression and anxiety, and contemplated suicide at his lowest ebb. After fighting his way back from the brink, he went on to turn his experiences into a memoir - Reasons To Stay Alive - that has been widely praised by mental health advocates including Stephen Fry.

Now the author is turning his attention to helping children deal with their struggles in a healthy and productive way.

The Truth Pixie, which started life as a poem Matt wrote to cheer himself up, follows a little girl named Aada as she deals with losing a grandparent and moving house, experiences many kids will relate to.

Over the course of the book, the Truth Pixie is able to teach Aada to accept that life will always have sad parts - but wonderful parts too.

To mark its release, Matt, himself a father of two, has shared his top tips for parents on broaching the topic of mental health with children with FEMAIL...

Scroll down to hear a clip from The Truth Pixie

Author Matt Haig, seen left, battled crippling anxiety and depression in his mid-twenties, a struggle he went on to recount in his memoir Reasons to Stay Alive. Now a father-of-two, Matt has written an audiobook called The Truth Pixie, which is narrated by the actress O

Matt Haig on how to talk to children about mental health Matt Haig, the author of Notes on a Nervous Planet and a new audiobook narrated by Olivia Colman, The Truth Pixie, has shared his tips on broaching the subject of mental health with your children Imagine age ratings when talking to your kids about mental health The way you talk about mental health to a six or seven year old is going to be very different to how you approach a teenager - but that doesn't mean you have to neglect it entirely. To approach a younger child about these topics, it may be easier to say things like 'daddys feeling a bit sad at the moment', or 'daddy had worries about school at your age', or even 'daddy used to be afraid of the dark'. Your kids are still going to be aware that you do not feel happy all the time, and understand that it's natural not to, but in a way that doesn't involve talking about the ins and outs of anxiety disorders and depression. Matt said: 'When Im feeling a bit ill Ill talk about it as I would a physical illness, and its amazing what children can take on board. 'But at the same time I always have almost like a cinema ratings in my mind, I keep it 12 or a PG certificate rather than a 15 certificate. 'Just be aware that they may think that theyre old but theyre still very young.' Treat mental health like you would physical health There's so much stigma around talking about your mental health, but kids need to understand that there's no shame in having problems with it. By talking about your mental health like you would your physical health, your children will realise that things can go wrong with their mind or anyone's mind. That way, if your child is having a problem, they're more likely to come to you about it rather than hide it away because they think nobody else is experiencing the same thing. Be honest about your own mental health Talking openly about your problems and how you're feeling means your kids will too, making it easier for them to deal with bigger issues in the future. Matt added: 'Everybody has mental health, and I think children are more likely to open up about their experiences if youre talking about your own experiences - its a contagious thing.' Point out potential triggers We all know going outside and taking a break from social media can be great for our mental health, and that conversely spending hours on video games can negatively impact it. By signposting these triggers and educating children about them, they will be able to make informed decisions about looking after themselves in the future. Soon enough, making better choices to look after your mind will be as natural as trying to get your five a day. Reasonable restrictions on technology There's no denying that social media can be fantastic, but mindlessly scrolling through Instagram for five hours isn't helping any one. While these platforms can help people who are struggling talk about their problems, often anonymously, reasonable restrictions are important to consider when it comes to your children. You can't control everything they look at, but you can keep an eye on how long they're on social media, or control the kinds of apps they use. 'I had a hard time at school sometimes but 4pm was when the school day ended. Now, the school day potentially never ends, theyre always expected to be on social media in some shape or form, or theyre considered weird and an outcast,' Matt added. 'I feel like were at where [we were with] cigarettes and fast food 50 years ago - where theyve got some of the facts but people arent taking it seriously.' Advertisement

Father-of-two Matt, who lives in Brighton, said: 'We often think that children should just have totally happy stories about happy things where nothing goes wrong, but I actually think its more of a comfort for a child - and for that matter an adult as well - if they have a character in a situation that isnt that perfect and happy.

'If you see someone in a similar situation to yourself whos actually going through that but... finding a way to cope with it in the story, I think thats where the comfort is.

'Its amazing what you can get across in a way that children wont even notice, and they wont feel like theyre being preached to.'

Matt's book, which he designed to be read out loud, has now been turned into an audiobook narrated by Olivia Colman, with the proceeds of sales going to Unicef UK.

He hopes the book will act as a 'comfort blanket in book form' for many - including his own kids - who will read it and take away messages of self acceptance.

Although there are certain things his two children, Lucas, 10, and Pearl, 9, are too young to understand, Matt said he regularly talks to his kids about his own issues, in the hope that it will help them in the future.

Proceeds from the audiobook version of the book, narrated by Olivia Colman, will go to Unicef UK

He added: 'Theyre aware that I went through a really rough time in my twenties and theyve heard me talk about [depression], but I think hopefully theres a comfort in it because my story is essentially one of survival.

'I experienced something terrible, and yes I still get depression, and yes I still get anxiety, yet I thought it was going to kill me - but it didnt.

'I just hope that - God forbid should they go through anything similar in their life - they will at least know that I felt that and I survived that, and I then knew lots and lots of happiness and great things in life despite it, and in some ways even because of it.'

In his darkest moments, Matt has said he felt totally alone and believed no one else in his family had experienced something similar - only later discovering that his mother had experienced post-natal depression.

He believes if he had known more about it, it could have been comforting to him, which is why he is now encouraging others to speak out about their own problems.

The audiobook of Matt Haigs The Truth Pixie read by Olivia Colman is released through Audible on 4 December, and available to pre-order now.

The Truth Pixie is also available in hardback (9.99, Canongate)At 6 foot 6 inches and with a 40 inch waist, Zach Miko doesn't fit the typical mould of a male model.

However the 29-year-old defied expectations in 2016 when he signed to agency IMG as the world's first plus-size male model.

The American spoke to FEMAIL on Monday about the shocking moment he was poached on Instagram by a scout and his thoughts on 'labels' in the modelling industry.

'I thought I was being pranked': The world's first male plus-size model Zach Miko (pictured at The Iconic's swimwear show in Sydney on Thursday) recalled the shocking moment he was poached on Instagram by a stranger

'I never dreamed it was even possible to be a model when I was growing up. I thought I couldn't be a model any more than I could be the Queen of England, it just wasn't an option,' Zach told FEMAIL.

'I had moved to New York to follow my career as an actor when I booked a small print job. I didn't think anything of it at the time, I was just happy to have my rent paid that month,' he added.

However it was a message on Instagram from the President of IMG Models, Ivan Bart, back in 2016, that became a turning point.

Chance encounter: The 29-year-old told FEMAIL on Monday he was approached by President of IMG Models, Ivan Bart, on Instagram in 2016

'Even as a fashion novice at the time, I knew who IMG and Ivan Bart was, so I thought someone was playing a prank on me,' Zach admitted.

Zach said that Ivan sold him on his dream of making fashion a 'diverse and inclusive industry'.

'He brought me in and told me about his dream of fashion, as a diverse, inclusive and ever-evolving industry and how I could be part of it by pushing that message for men,' he explained.

Ever since that pivotal moment, it's been a 'non-stop adventure' for Zach, who recently took to the runway at the Iconic's 2019 swim show in Sydney on Thursday.

Making waves: Zach said that Ivan sold him on his dream of making fashion a 'diverse and inclusive industry'

Labels: Zach admitted to FEMAIL that while he doesn't mind the term 'plus-size' he prefers to be labelled 'brawny'

Making history: Zach made history again last week in Sydney, when he was the first male plus-size model to walk in online retailer The Iconic's swimwear show

The occasion also marked the first time a male plus-size model has been included in an Australian swimwear show.

Zach said that while he doesn't mind the term 'plus-size' he prefers to be labelled 'brawny'.

'There are definitely terms I prefer more, such as 'brawn', 'big and tall' or 'people of size', but in my own personal journey, I don't have an issue with 'plus-size',' he said.

'I have actually found community in the term as it's a gender inclusive term for people of size,' Zach added.A hunky young rocket scientist with an IQ of 181 has put his high-powered job on hold to become a full time male model.

Jack Heslewood, 25, is currently representing the UK in the biggest male modelling contest in Australia.

Aerospace engineering graduate Jack, from Bishops Stortford, had been working as a technical advisor alongside starting his own business in advanced technology.

But the heartthrob has put all this on ice to take part in 'Manhunt International' in Surfers Paradise, Queensland.

Jack Heslewood, 25, is currently representing the UK in the biggest male modelling contest in Australia

What is a normal IQ? An IQ between 90 and 110 is considered average; over 120, superior. Roughly 68% of the population has an IQ between 85 and 115. The range between 70 and 130, and represents about 95% of the population. Advertisement

Jack was around the world of modelling from an early age, as his two sisters were involved in the industry and sister Kirsty Heslewood won Miss England in 2013.

He insists modelling is much more mentally taxing than vapid stereotypes might have you believe.

'In modelling you get to meet lots of diverse people and make new friends, it's a great distraction from science which is very demanding mentally,' he said.

'With modelling you need a whole different type of skill set which I respect, it's not easy.'

Aerospace engineering graduate Jack, from Bishops Stortford, had been working as a technical advisor alongside starting his own business in advanced technology

The heartthrob has put all this on ice to take part in 'Manhunt International' in Surfers Paradise, Queensland

The televised competition features fitness tests and catwalk challenges.

Jack, who was previously crowned Mr Hertfordshire, has also set his sights on becoming Mr England and hopes to model for top brands all over the world.

'I am so proud to be representing the UK in Manhunt International and am delighted to meet men from all over the world,' he said.

'I love to get to know about new cultures and this is a fantastic competition in its 30th year  I am so grateful for this opportunity.'

Jack, who was previously crowned Mr Hertfordshire, has also set his sights on becoming Mr England and hopes to model for top brands all over the world

'I am so proud to be representing the UK in Manhunt International and am delighted to meet men from all over the world,' he said

His mother Kerry said she is proud of all of her children and knows her son is loving the competition.

''I am delighted Jack is making new friends and know he will try his best at everything thrown at him, He is polite, well-mannered and fun,' she said.

Although he is pursuing modelling at the moment, he realised he wanted to study engineering at the age of 15 when he was taken to a talk about the Bloodhound Project, a British supersonic land vehicle.

Although he is pursuing modelling at the moment, he realised he wanted to study engineering at the age of 15

'Jack had a motor bike at age five and was extremely interested in engines and technology,' Kerry said.

'His science work at primary school was very advanced, he was always designing scooters and inventing hover boards  we always jokingly said he would be an inventor one day.'

After leaving school at 16 he pursued his dream of studying at Kingston University and by the age of 21 had gained his degree in Aerospace engineering and was invited to work at leading aerospace and defence company Marshalls Aerospace.

To Vote for Jack to win, visit @manhuntintuk and like and comment on Jack's pictures.The mother of a little boy who's become one of Britain's youngest Instagram influencers aged one has revealed how he's already bagged 10,000 worth of freebies - and modelling work.

Stacey Woodhams, 28, from Brentwood in Essex, initially set up an account for her son Ralphie Waplington to keep their extended family posted on her growing boy, but after getting 1,000 followers in the space of a month, she decided to try her hand at turning it into a business.

Now Ralphie has 14,000 followers, a different pram for every day of the week, has modelled for Next, and can earn hundreds of pounds from a single post - all before he turns two.

Stacey, who styles all of her son's posts, has even banned her relatives from sharing snaps of Ralphie on social media, in case they're not in-keeping with her son's carefully cultivated image.

Stacey, who has taken delivery of freebies including a wardrobe's worth of clothes for Ralphie and all of his bedroom furniture as a result of his popularity online, said she has received backlash from fellow mums, but insists everything she's doing is 'for Ralphie and his future'.

And she and Ralphie's dad Adam Waplington are desperate to have another child - so they can keep up relationships with brands their little boy is getting too old to work with.

At just one, Ralphie Waplington, from Brentwood in Essex, already has 14,000 Instagram followers - and an ever-growing pile of freebies

Ralphie, seen posing for a snap in a bright red bathrobe emblazoned with his initials, has received an entire wardrobe and a set of bedroom furniture from brands, in exchange for mentions on his increasingly popular Instagram account

Ralphie's mother Stacey Woodhams, seen here with her little boy and his father, Adam, has banned relatives from posting snaps of her son online, to protect his carefully cultivated image

Stacey admits that she's received hate mail and threats from fellow mothers online and warns parents that they shouldn't run Instagram accounts for their children unless they're prepared for the gut-wrenching backlash.

The 28-year-old originally set up an Instagram account for Ralphie when he was seven days old so that their family could see him grow.

But within a month, she had amassed more than 1,000 followers and now spends hours every day focusing on Ralphie's account.

She credits the social media giant for giving her the opportunity to work from home as she earns enough from running the account alongside her own business Mummas Prints.

After a slew of adoring comments on his photographs, she realised that her son could become an 'influencer', opening up chances to work with brands and companies.

Ralphie's family can take their pick from one of his five prams any time they want to take him for a stroll - all thanks to his growing influence online

Stacey revealed she's received hate mail from fellow mothers online who disagree with her decision to turn her little boy into an influencer, and warns parents keen to follow in her footsteps to prepare themselves for possible backlash

The family has enough prams to take Ralphie for a stroll in a different one every day of the week - all thanks to his growing influence on social media

According to proud mum Stacey, Ralphie can earn hundreds of pounds from a single Instagram post

As a family, Stacey, Ralphie, and his dad Adam Waplington, 29, have enjoyed free trips to theme parks, posh meals and popular tourist highlights, including Peppa Pig World.

She earns a salary from his posts which she says she spends on family days out and treats for her boy.

On top of his income from Instagram, the tot, who turns two in December, also earns a salary from modelling for brands including Next, which is kept separately in his own bank account.

The mum said she initially set up the account as a way for their extended family to see snaps of her little boy growing up

Ralphie, who turns two next month, has also been poached by brands like Next to star in modelling campaigns as a result of his mother's efforts to boost his social media profile

Stacey said: 'I've worked really hard to achieve what we have achieved and everything I do is for Ralphie and his future.

'If a photo of him in a tracksuit with snot running down his face and his hair is messy gets put on social media, that is not representative of the brands we are representing.

'It sounds awful referring to him a brand because he is a human and a child but essentially, the name that we have created is a business.

'And that's what I'm trying to say to people when they bash me, this is a business.

'It's not different to me leaving the house at 7am and returning at 7pm but instead I have a job where Ralphie reaps the rewards and I get to spend all day with my son.

Pictured: One of one of the images uploaded to Ralphie's instagram account of him posing with toys sent to him for sponsored posts

'So our family aren't allowed to post photos unless it's a photo we've already posted or a photo I've approved.

'And before I take any photographs, we'll make sure his hair is brushed. It's about giving him a bit of dignity, after all I wouldn't post a photo of me not at my best!

'One lady had a go at me saying I was too busy taking photos of him posing as a model.

'Well, he is a model. He's represented by an agency, he does a lot of modelling and he's worked with some really big names.

'So yes, I do take photos where he looks lovely because he is!'

Stacey brushes off criticism of her approach and says 'everything I do is for Ralphie and his future'

'If a photo of him in a tracksuit with snot running down his face... gets put on social media, that's not representative of the brands we are representing,' Stacey says of why she asks relatives not to share pictures of her son

Stacey makes sure she plans ahead so photos of Ralphie are strategically shared when they're likely to receive the most attention.

She says this includes posting photos at 2am when fellow frazzled parents are likely to be scrolling through their phone whilst their children keep them awake.

Overall, Ralphie's received more than 200 free outfits, as well as free bedroom furniture, free designer toys and eight prams sent by baby brands.

And Stacey and Adam have received free meals including a lavish afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason, treatments at salons and gifts including a free set of luggage and a free kingsize mattress.

Stacey said: 'We've been invited to days out at themes parks, we've been offered hotel stays, a furniture company gave us all of Ralphie's bedroom furniture.

'I've been sent handbags, suitcases, Hugo Boss designer clothes. We got a luggage set for all of us.

'Ralphie is really lucky. All of his clothing comes from Forever Sewing, they sponsor his wardrobe, and we love working with small businesses.

But his profile didn't become a viral sensation overnight, as Stacey says she spent months ensuring that regular daily uploads saw her gain followers.

She says she works hard to portray the daily struggles of motherhood rather than presenting a life that many cannot relate too.

However, the effort was worth it, as the mum says Ralphie earns up to 375 per sponsored post.

Stacey grew Ralphie's account to 1,000 followers within the first month of posting, and now devotes several hours a day to perfecting his online image

But while most fans praise the handsome toddler and are quick to praise Stacey for her hard work, others aren't so quick to big the tot's Instagram page up.

In the past, she's received messages accusing of neglecting her son in favour of taking photographs of him.

Stacey said: 'I definitely put on a front so when someone calls you a bad mum, it really does hurt me.

'I just think that if someone was doing what I do but wasn't in the right frame of mind, I wonder what these Instagram trolls could do.

'I think people don't realise the nastiness of what they say and how it could affect someone.'

Although she admits to having spent a lot of time on her phone, she insists that Ralphie never notices.

She says: 'It only take a split second to take a photograph and I do all the editing when he's asleep or Adam is home.

'There's a lot of prep work. You can only photograph him if he's in a good mood and he's happy to play.

'I never force him to sit still, I just snap him in the moment so he's none the wiser and it's just like any other mum capturing a photo.

'He's at that age where we can explain to him what we're doing.

'Obviously it's stressful because you have a brief from some brands to get it from a certain angle and just one shot to do it.

'Once you set it up, if he messes it all up, then you won't get a good image. So we really do have to work as a team.

'I've got Adam running around like a performing monkey distracting him but Ralphie just laughs and thinks its funny.

'We've visited some great places and he's actually having a lot of fun but for me, it's like being at work,

'So I'm filming, editing and doing Instagram stories on my phone and probably looking like I'm having the worst time.

'So it's not all it seems.'

Pictured: One of one of the images uploaded to Ralphie's Instagram account. He receives 375 per post shared to Instagram and boasts 14,000 followrs

Ralphie with his mother Stacey at their home in Essex. Ralphie, age two, is an Instagram influencer thanks to Stacey and is seen having a selfie taken

Pictured of one of the images uploaded to Ralphie's instagram account. Stacey ensures she catches him in natural moments so he does't get fed up with her taking pictures

And as Ralphie's following increases, Stacey says she understands why parents might criticise her.

She said: 'We're exposing Ralphie to a life that's he's not had a choice in. He's not been able to say 'yes mummy', I want to do this.

'Ultimately, we try and understand it from people with a negative opinion.

'How we see it is, yes, there's a lot of views and opinions on what we do and how we could be putting him in danger.

'But at the same time, I know that everything we post is filtered and we want to portray him as the little boy having fun that he is.

'I can see why people would think we are using him as a tool for potentially making a name for our family, and as a form of income but this isn't the case.

'But I post to inspire other people that you can achieve anything. I am an ordinary girl from a really ordinary background.

'I've had ups and downs in my lives but I know you can achieve anything if you work hard at it.

'I feel really grateful to be given the opportunities that we have been given.'

Camera ready: Stacey says she snaps her son when he is 'none the wiser'. She's also longing for baby number two so they can keep up relationships with brands Ralphie worked with when he was smaller

Stacey says that 30 per cent of business comes from brands getting in touch with her, but the rest 'you have to go out and get it'

And as Ralphie gets older, brands are becoming more intrigued by the rest of the family, including Adam, who works in the wholesale restaurant business.

The pair recently set up an Instagram account focused on him and hope that he may be able to quit his full-time job in the future.

Adam said: 'I'm still really new to the whole thing.

'We found that opportunities would come up that involved dads so we thought it was a no-brainer if I got involved.'

But Stacey says that she still spends a lot of time contacting brands to suggest they work with her.

She said: 'It's like any business, You have to go out and get it.

'I'd say seventy per cent of the work we obtain is through me reaching out to source it, and thirty per cent where we get contacted directly.'

Now the 28-year-old has begun running workshops for fellow parents on how to use social media and promote their businesses or their own family influencer accounts.

She said: 'I'm so passionate about what I do

'I think Instagram is quite misunderstood but it can be a really positive place to share your story.

In the near future, the family hope to have another child who they can also share on Instagram.

Stacey said: 'Some of the companies that got in touch when Ralphie was 8 or 9 weeks old, we still are in contact with.

'Unfortunately a lot of products only make things for newborns so we're longing for baby two now so we can carry on!'

Ralphie with his mother Stacey and father Adam at their home in Essex. The pair take most of their pictures of their little boy

Stacey says she only ever takes pictures of Ralphie when he's in a good mood and tries to do it in one snap

Ralphie with his mother Stacey and father Adam at their home in Essex. Ralphie, age two, is an Instagram influencer thanks to Stacey

Ralphie with his mother Stacey and father Adam at their home in Essex. The pair have received countless family days out due to their little boy's rising stardom

Stacey says Ralphie's father Adam runs around to distract him so he doesn't get fed up of her taking pictures

Ralphie with his mother Stacey at their home in Essex. Stacey says she never forces him to sit still and only ever takes pictures when he's in a natural environmentMeghan avoids reading stories about herself as she's a 'believer in karma', a source has claimed.

The Duchess of Sussex, 37, is, however, 'aware' of the negative headlines about her and 'believes the press is out to get her', according to an insider.

It comes amid rumours of a rift between the Sussexes and the Cambridges, following the announcement that Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, are moving away from Kensington Palace.

There have also been suggestions that Meghan is demanding with staff, with claims that her personal assistant Melissa Toubati handed in her notice after being left in tears.

Meghan, 37, (pictured last month visiting the Hubb Community Kitchen in London) avoids reading stories about herself as she's a 'believer in karma', a source has claimed

Speaking to Vanity Fair's Katie Nicholl, a source said: 'Meghan is a believer in karma and she doesnt want to sit there reading negative online stories and comments about herself.

'She feels to a degree the British press is out to get her and while shes aware of the news and whats going on, she tries her best not to read all the stories about her.'

Well-placed royal sources have previously insisted there has been no major falling out between the two couples but confirmed that the two duchesses do not get on particularly well and there have been some tensions behind the scenes.

It had been previously reported that Kate was 'left in tears' after Princess Charlotte's bridesmaid's dress fitting, in the apparently stressful run-up the Harry and Meghan's wedding.

The Duchess of Sussex, 37, is, however, 'aware' of the negative headlines about her, according to the insider. It comes amid rumours of a rift between the Cambridges and the Sussexes (pictured above on Christmas Day last year)

Meanwhile, there have been further reports that Harry and Meghan have not endeared themselves to royal household staff with their somewhat 'dictatorial' behaviour.

The Daily Mail's Rebecca English revealed that the Sussexes and the Cambridges will be spending Christmas together at Sandringham this year, despite previous suggestions that Kate, William and their children would be spending the festive period with the Middletons.

A source said: 'Reports regarding Christmas are wrong. Everyone is in Norfolk this year.'

Over the weekend, the Mail reported that Meghan had wanted air fresheners for the musty odour of St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle.

There have also been suggestions that Meghan (pictured with Harry at the Royal Variety Performance last month) is 'demanding' with staff

Despite the rumours of a rift, the Cambridges and Sussexes (above at a remembrance service at Westminster Abbey last month) will be spending Christmas Day together this year

Insiders said the Duchess's request to use the atomisers did not find favour with Buckingham Palace, which swiftly pointed out that the chapel was a regular place of worship for the Queen  as it had been for successive monarchs since 1475  and if it was good enough for them, it would be good enough for her.

Yesterday the Sunday Mirror reported that Meghan's personal assistant Melissa Toubati resigned after just six months, having broken down in tears over the stress of her job.

A source familiar with the 39-year-old Frenchwoman's time working for the Duchess of Sussex told the newspaper: 'Her job was highly pressurised and in the end it became too much.

'She put up with quite a lot. Meghan put a lot of demands on her and it ended up with her in tears.'An actress and reiki healer has married herself in a 'powerful' ceremony, after experiencing a series of abusive relationships.

Jenilyn Rodriguez, 30, from New York, who was raised Catholic, has distanced herself from organised religion and said she wanted to put her faith in love - and herself.

So much so that, while shopping for jewellery earlier this year, Jenilyn fell in love with a ring that had been handmade in Iceland, and decided to use it to get engaged to herself.

And last month Jenilyn, wearing a 240 gown and a flower crown made by a friend, vowed to love herself in a sologamy ceremony in New York held at 3.33pm exactly - because the number 333 means pure love in angel numerology - watched by 20 guests including her sister, Jessica.

'It is a reminder to always stay grateful and that we are all miracles,' said Jenilyn, who is now planning her honeymoon touring Ireland's ancient celtic sites.

'I have everything I could ever need so I only want a life filled with joy and love.'

Jenilyn Rodriguez, 30, an actress and qualified reiki healer from New York, said she decided to get engaged to herself after experiencing abusive relationships in the past

The bride organised the ceremony to be held at exactly 3.33pm, because 333 is a highly significant number in angel numerology - meaning pure love

Jenilyn sent out invites to friends to witness the marriage between herself and 'her higher self'

The ceremony took place on November 11th, chosen because 1111 is another significant number in angel numerology - meaning angels are in the room with you.

While her sister flew to New York especially for the ceremony, Jenilyn's Catholic parents weren't overjoyed by their daughter going against religious convention.

Jenilyn said marrying herself was a reminder to herself that she already has everything she could ever need in herself, that she can be her own best friend and source of comfort. Now, she is encouraging anyone else to marry themselves and hopes to open a centre where she can marry others.

The bride smiles for a snap with her sister, Jessica, on her wedding day. She says her parents were less thrilled by the prospect of her sologamy ceremony

Jenilyn, who was raised Catholic, says her religion 'never sat right with me'. She says 'I have everything I could ever need so I only want a life filled with joy and love'

'Me and my siblings were raised Catholic, although it never sat right with me,' said Jenilyn.

'I always felt a strong desire to be more open minded and unaffiliated with any organised religion. I wanted to work with love and I wanted to pray in nature, not necessarily in a building.

'I am a certified reiki healer and I love healing people, yet I found that there were always issues around love in my own life as I suffered abusive relationships and toxic work environments.

'One day I decided to buy myself a ring as a gift of love to myself, and when I looked at the sizes I thought to myself 'what size is my ring finger?' and then I smiled and thought I should get engaged to myself.

'I made a promise to treat myself better and to love myself better. The response I got from my closest friends and others was almost overwhelming. So then I realised that I needed to decide if I was going to go through with it, I should go all the way with it.

'I felt very strongly that this was a very positive thing and that it would also make me so much more likely to stick to the promise I made.

'All in all, there were about 20 people who took part in rejoicing with me. My phenomenal baby sister flew in and kept me calm and sane. She also fed me cake just to be cute.

Jenilyn said there were 'always issues' in her love life, and has suffered abusive relationships as well as toxic work environments

Jenilyn is seen with her friend Cheyenne, who made the rustic flower crown she wore to get married to herself in New York last month

The bride wore a 240 wedding gown for the ceremony, teamed with blue and green shoes and her eye-catching headpiece

'My amazing best friend was the officiant and she was incredible - she explained what sologamy was and thanked everyone for being a part of this life changing event. Another best friend did a reading of the Desiderata, my life motto. Then I read my vows to everyone.

'The dress I ordered was about 240 and the shoes I had were green and blue iridescent and so gorgeous. Then my friend made my crown by hand for me which was beautiful.

'The after party was in a room at a low-key bar and it was such a dream. I felt that I truly married my human person to my higher self, so that my body, mind and soul could be one and work together to create the best life I could ever imagine.

'It was all so lovely and so powerful. It was very moving, and it felt so important that I made this choice. For me, the ring is another gift of love to myself because it's the second part of the promise of the engagement ring.

'It completes the gift of love and healing that I am giving to myself for the rest of my life here on Earth as a ring does in a circle, it completes the cycle. It was handmade in Iceland from rare wood and real fern encased in resin.

'Next year I am taking myself to visit the sites of Ancient Celtic Ireland as my honeymoon.'

Happily ever after: Jenilyn, an actress, producer and reiki healer, 30, is seen with some of her 20 wedding guests on her big day

The bride, seen left, got engaged to herself with a ring, seen right, that was handmade in Iceland from a fern set in resin

Jenilyn's friend Cheyenne, seen left, read from the Desiderata, one of the bride's favourite readings, at the 'moving' and 'powerful' ceremony on November 11th

Jenilyn spoke about the importance her ceremony has had for her own outlook on love, and why she hopes more people might go through with a ceremony.

'There's a saying that you only have yourself and you're stuck with yourself forever, so you might as well love yourself. I took that very personally,' said Jenilyn.

'What if I was my own best friend and I was always there for myself? What if I was my own source of comfort, strength and guidance? What if I am amazing and should never be treated badly or harshly?

'It is a reminder to always stay grateful and that we are all miracles. I have everything I could ever need so I only want a life filled with joy and love.

'My parents didn't love it as they are quite religious, and the word 'wedding' disturbed them in a sacramental sense, although they were supportive of the basic idea of commitment to be true to myself.

'There were a lot of people I didn't tell because I didn't want a single person who didn't get it to be there on the day and I didn't want any contrary opinions. This was for me and no other opinions were considered.

'Someone said to me that I will find somebody one day and not to give up which was sweet and came from a loving place, but it missed the point.. Some people didn't take it seriously enough to hold the date and made other commitments, which hurt my feelings just a little bit.

'I welcome love in all forms and a committed relationship is wonderful, but I will never lose sight of myself again or become half of a duo. I would still marry a person in the conventional way if I found a love like that and I'd love to have a family one day.

'I recommend marrying yourself to anyone. It's a vital promise to care for ourselves and it should be binding, whether it's legal or not. My friend and I hope to open a holistic healing centre in New York City to offer a place for self-marriages.'

You can see more from Jenilyn's spiritual ceremony by visiting @jenoele.Sarah Ferguson has revealed how she 'murdered herself' with self-hatred following her divorce to Prince Andrew.

Fergie, 58, explained how she blamed herself for her split with the Duke of York in 1996, following ten years of marriage.

However, she says that her and Andrew's life together is now 'the greatest ever', branding it as 'our fairy tale'.

The Duchess of York also described how she's 'starting my life at 58', after returning to the royal fold earlier this year.

Sarah Ferguson (pictured at a Claridge's event last week) has revealed how she 'murdered herself' with self-hatred following her divorce to Prince Andrew.

Describing her divorce to Modern Hero's Julia Fisher Farbman, Fergie said: 'It was rock bottom. I had completely and utterly destroyed myself. I murdered myself.

'I must have brought that on for myself, hadn't I? That's how I felt about myself, self-hatred at its height. I think that I lived in my ego for a very long time.'

She described how long periods of separation between her and Andrew, when he was away with the Navy, played a factor in their split.

'It was seven years, 40 days a year, I saw him. It was really, really difficult,' she said.

The Duchess of York (pictured on her wedding day) explained how she blamed herself for her split with Andrew, after ten years of marriage

'It played into my abandonment. We both agreed we didn't fight hard enough to keep it together.'

Despite the pain she endured following their divorce, Fergie still insisted that marrying Andrew in 1986 as 'certainly the best thing I've ever done'.

The mother-of-two also explained how she's now happier than ever, commenting: 'I'm starting my life at 58.'

However, she admitted it had been 'long, hard' journey, describing how it had taken 'loads of spiritual work to break through my ego', and adding 'I realise it's all about forgiveness'.

Fergie continued that she and Andrew, who live together at the Royal Lodge in Windsor, are happier than ever.

Fergie, 58, says that her and Andrew's life together is now 'the greatest ever', branding it as 'our fairy tale'. The pair are picture together at Ascot earlier this summer

The Duchess (pictured with Eugenie and Beatrice in 2015) also described herself as the 'mother that I've always wanted', after her own mother Susan Barrantes eloped to Argentina when she was just a child

'Now our life together is the greatest ever,' she said. 'It's so hard to comprehend because we're not normal. This is our fairy tale, and we're telling it our way.'

Speaking about her relationship with daughters Beatrice and Eugenie, Fergie said: '100%, I am a mother that I've always wanted.'

She added: 'Beatrice calls me the most misunderstood woman in the world.'

Fergie's own mother Susan Barrantes caused a stir after eloping to Argentina with a professional polo player when the Duchess was just a child.

The Duchess recently about her divorce with Andrew in an exclusive interview with the Mail last month.

'Were the happiest divorced couple in the world. Were divorced to each other, not from each other,' she explained.

We are completely compatible. Our bywords are communication, compromise and compassion.

July 23, 1986 was the happiest day of my life. Andrew is the best man I know. What he does for Britain is incredible; no one knows how hard he works for his country.'Advertisement

The future Duke of Marlborough and his new wife have revealed details of their lavish society wedding three months after tying the knot.

George, the Marquess of Blandford, 26, married childhood sweetheart Camilla Thorp, 31, now Marchioness of Blandford, at the picturesque St Mary Magdalene Church in Woodstock, before continuing the celebrations at the family seat of Blenheim Palace.

The special day, which took place in early September, saw the guests - a who's who of British society figures - treated to a relaxed reception beneath a marquee in the grounds of the palace before everyone donned black tie for a night in the Great Hall.

Speaking in an interview with Tatler magazine, Camilla, who met George when he was only 16, told how guests did not hold back when it came to the after party, which saw the couple crowd-surf and one enthusiastic guest strip off on stage.

That's not where the antics ended. 'One couple "enjoyed" the cricket pitch, which was played on the next day by the unsuspecting local team,' Camilla added with a smile.

Fairytale day: George, the Marquess of Blandford, 26, married childhood sweetheart Camilla Thorp, 31, now Marchioness of Blandford, at the picturesque St Mary Magdalene Church in Woodstock, before continuing the celebrations at the family seat of Blenheim Palace. Pictured, George with Camilla in her Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda wedding gown with Blenheim behind

Simply stunning: Following the reception in a marquee, guests donned black tie as they continued celebrating into the early hours. Pictured, Camilla changed into a delicate lace gown and statement organza cape for the night-time festivities

Floating on a cloud: Camilla Thorp, 31, now Marchioness of Blandford, shows off the drama of her organza wedding cape as she walks through the halls of the 18th century Blenheim Palace, which her husband George, 26, will one day inherit

Among the highlights for the couple was the speech delivered by George's father, reformed hedonist James Spencer-Churchill, 12th Duke of Marlborough.

Camilla recalled: 'He [the Duke] announced that perhaps he hadnt been the best father, but was making up for it in recent years  and he said how proud he was of both of us.'

Aviation broker and Old Harrovian George, 26, became Marquess of Blandford in 2014, following his grandfather's death and was named last year by Tatler as one of the '10 most eligible people in the land'.

His ties to the biggest names in British society are extensive and date back generations. George's great-great-grandfather, the 9th Duke of Marlborough, was a first cousin of Sir Winston Churchill and was married to Consuelo Vanderbilt, of the prominent American Vanderbilt dynasty. The late Princess Diana was also George's fourth cousin, once removed.

Here comes the bride! Well-wishers turned out to see Camilla arrived in her exquisite Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda couture wedding dress. Her bridesmaids fitted the pink and gold theme in their gowns, designed by Emma Victoria Payne

Just married! The couple, who met while on holiday on the Isle of Wight when George was only 16, tied the knot at nearby St Mary Magdalene Church, pictured, surrounded by friends and family. George proposed at Soho House Istanbul

BLENHEIM PALACE A gift from Queen Anne to John Churchill, the first Duke of Marlborough, in 1704, Blenheim Palace was a reward for his victory over the army of Louis XIV of France in the Spanish War of Succession. Since then the palace has been held in trust for Duke after Duke and is currently the home of the 12th, Jamie Spencer-Churchill. Winston Churchill was born at Blenheim, which became a world heritage site in 1987. The 200,000sq ft estate has 187 rooms, dwarfing Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle,and attracts about 500,000 visitors every year. Advertisement

Well liked, George can often be seen entertaining friends behind the walls of his family's eighteenth-century pile.

The aristocrat and polo player lives in leafy south-west London but will one day preside over the jaw-dropping 187-room Blenheim Palace.

He met Camilla while on holiday in the Isle of Wight 10 years ago.

Recalling how their relationship started, Camilla said: 'One day he just started holding my hand.

'Our parents have been friends for years, which made life much easier. We didnt have to do the whole "meet the parents" thing.'

George, son of James Spencer-Churchill and his first wife Rebecca Mary Few Brown, popped the question at Soho House, Istanbul, and the couple set about planning the wedding.

Camilla, who did not hire a wedding planner, explained she had always thought she would marry at her mother's Hampshire home but that her husband-to-be 'thought it important for us to celebrate Blenheim'.

Mr and Mrs! George and Camilla were the picture of newlywed bliss as they left the church and led guests back to the reception at Blenheim Palace. Camilla, who wore a tiara for her big day, designed the wedding without the help of a planner

Opening up: The couple share details of their big day in the new issue of Tatler magazine, pictured

The couple tied the knot at nearby St Mary Magdalene Church before heading back for a party beneath a marquee on the palace's South Lawn.

Interior designer Camilla was given away by her father James, an architect.

After the ceremony, the couple celebrated with friends and family at the palace, which is set in 2,000 acres.

Sharing details of the day with Tatler, the couple revealed how guests sampled dishes from high-end food stalls before donning their black tie finest for drinks in the historic Great Hall.

A three-course dinner followed, before the festivities continued with a 'full-on dance party' - complete with a fireworks display, a magician and helium balloons over the palace ponds.

Camilla looked simply stunning in a Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda couture wedding dress, featuring a full organza and lace skirt and train and feminine off-shoulder bodice with pearls and flowers.

For the evening, the bride changed into a gorgeous lace gown and organza cape -a perfect princess creation for a fairytale day.

See the full feature in the January 2019 issue of Tatler, available via digital download or on newsstands now http://www.tatler.com/Advertisement

Jenna Bush Hager has paid tribute to her grandfather George HW in a touching open letter that celebrates the close bond he had with his family - and the incredibly special memories they each treasure from throughout his life.

The 37-year-old shared the 'love letter' on the Today show on Monday, explaining in the pre-recorded segment that her 'Gampy' had always written letter to the most important people in his life, before adding that it was now her turn to do the same for him.

'My grandfather wrote letters all his life, to his children, his wife, friends, and even political rivals,' she explained. 'He often wrote about love and family. For me, his words have always been a precious gift. All the more so now.

Tribute: Jenna Bush Hager shared a touching open letter to her late grandfather George HW on Monday morning

Special bond: The 37-year-old mother-of-two expressed her gratitude that her own daughters, Mila, five, and Poppy, three, got the chance to know and love her Gampy before he passed away

Memories: Jenna recalled George HW's first meeting with her eldest daughter Mila when she was just a newborn baby, noting that she will 'always treasure' the time that they spent together at his home at Kennebunkport (pictured)

'It's my turn to write a love letter to my Gampy.'

The show then aired clips of each of Jenna's closest family members sharing tributes to the legacies that George HW left behind, after he passed away at the age of 94 on Friday night at his home in Houston, Texas.

For Jenna's father, and George HW's son, George W, the lessons that the 41st president left for his family will be one of his most long-lasting gifts.

'He showed you and me how to love, he showed you and me the importance of humility,' George W is seen telling his daughter.

Meanwhile Laura - George HW's daughter-in-law - honored his spirit and his love of fun, saying: 'He thought it was very amusing to make people laugh and to come out in some sort of goofy hat. He loved that, he loved being funny.

'A lot of the special times were around the dinner table, the laughs around the table, and that is certainly how he grew up, with everybody at the table and everyone talking and everyone laughing during those meals, they were so much fun.'

Jenna's twin sister Barbara, who was named for her late grandmother, George HW's wife, credited her Gampy with always making his family members feel special, no matter who they were or what they did.

'I'm sure that every one of his grandchildren thinks he loves them the most, he just always makes every person feel so special,' she explained.

Family was, Jenna wrote in her letter, the most important thing in George HW's life, with the mother-of-two noting that he always believed it to be his 'greatest gift'.

'He was blessed with six children, 17 grandchildren, and great-grandchildren too,' she said. 'Whatever demands were placed on him in his professional life, and there were many, we all knew we could count on him. He made each of us feel adored, always. He was our rock.

'Given the gift of time, so rare and so precious, my family has been able to reflect on what he meant to us.'

Family ties: Jenna's closest family members also shared their most enduring memories of George HW, with her twin sister Barbara (left) praising him for always make each grandchild feel so loved, while Laura (right) celebrated his love of fun

'Greatest gift': The former first daughter also wrote about her Gampy's love for his family, explaining that Geroge HW (pictured front row with wife Barbara) always made sure his loved ones knew they were the most important thing in his life

'He was our rock': 'We all knew we could count on him. He made each of us feel adored, always,' Jenna wrote of her granddad

Balance: Jenna noted that her grandfather always made sure he had time to devote to his loved ones, 'no matter what demands' were made to him during his professional life

Jenna did note, however, that getting her grandfather to share his own reflections 'has never been easy', adding that she was incredibly grateful for the rare opportunities when he did open up to her when they were enjoying a close conversation 'on the back porch at his beloved Kennebunkport with the ocean view that meant so much to him in his childhood, and his advancing years too'.

Kennebunkport is an incredibly special place for the Bush family; not only does it hold memories for Jenna of the candid words she shared with her grandfather, it is also the place where he first had the chance to bond with her oldest daughter Mila when she was just a newborn baby.

'I'll always treasure the special days like this one spent with my grandfather in Kennebunkport when my own baby girl Mila got to spend time with Gampy,' she said, before vowing to never let her daughters forget just how special their great-grandfather was.

'My children will always know how special my grandfather is to us, because we will never let them forget,' she pledged. 'And they will cherish too, all those letters [written by] their great grandfather in his own words.'

My children will always know how special my grandfather is to us, because we will never let them forget. Jenna Bush Hager

The devoted mother reiterated this sentiment in a touching post shared on her Instagram account on Monday morning, in which she posted several images of her grandfather with his various family members, before speaking about her gratitude that Mila, five, and Poppy, three, got the chance to know and love George HW before his death.

Jenna actually named her youngest daughter after George HW, calling her Poppy after the affectionate nickname that was used for him when he was growing up.

'What a gift that my girls got to know our Gampy,' she wrote in the caption alongside the images. 'What an honor that we could name our Poppy after such a principled, humble, kind man who we all loved fiercely and who loved us back.

She then went on to quote from a letter that George HW once wrote to his family, explaining that she now reads the poignant words 'with new eyes'.

'Remember the old song, "I'll be there, ready when you are"? Well I'll be there, ready when you are. And if you need me, I'm here. Devotedly, Dad.'

During her Today segment, Jenna also made sure to pay tribute to the incredible bond between George HW and Barbara, his wife of 70 years who died just eight months before he passed away, having spent a lifetime by his side.

'And by his side, devoted for more than 70 years, was my grandmother,' Jenna wrote. 'Through times of triumph and times of loss. Their engagement at my grandfather's beloved Walker's Point is a cherished family tale.

'As they grew older together, my grandfather said every night he would still reach for my grandmother's hand, just to know she was there.'

Enduring memory: 'My children will always know how special my grandfather is to us,' Jenna wrote, while also paying tribute to the special bond between her Gampy and his late wife Barbara (right), who died just eight months before he did

Holding on: Jenna explained that her grandfather has always written letters to those people who matter most in his life, be they friends or family - or even political rivals - having first penned love letters to Barbara while fighting in the Navy (pictured)

Long-lasting love: She wrote of the incredibly close bond between George HW and Barbara, celebrating the love that they had shared over the last 70 years

Poignant: 'As they grew older together, my grandfather said every night he would still reach for my grandmother's hand, just to know she was there,' Jenna revealed

George HW and Barbara spent much of the first few months of their relationship communicating through love letter, because George had been stationed abroad with the Navy.

The sweet tribute that Jenna shared on Monday is just the latest in a line of heartwarming celebrations that the former first daughter has posted in honor of her late grandfather.

On Saturday, Jenna posted a pair of touching tributes to her beloved Gampy, sharing two joyful photos with her grandfather on Instagram with the caption: 'Waking up missing this giant of a man who gave me everything.

'He taught me and my family about service, family, decency, the power of gentle words and a beautiful heart. I will miss him desperately but so happy he and my Grandmother are back together.'

One photo shows Jenna and her twin Barbara, both 37, flanking their grandfather as they all wear giant grins on their faces.

He taught me and my family about service, family, decency, the power of gentle words and a beautiful heart. I will miss him desperately... Jenna Bush Hager

The second photo shows a young Jenna standing beside her cousins saluting a Christmas tree as the then-president smiles alongside them.

Jenna then shared another post with a comic published this morning that showed Bush Snr arriving in heaven via a WWII fighter jet and being greeted by his wife of 73 years Barbara, who passed away eight months ago, and the three-year-old daughter they lost to leukemia in 1953.

A speech bubble above Barbara says: 'We waited for you.'

In the Instagram caption Jenna wrote: 'This brought me such comfort this morning. I had the opportunity to talk with my grandpa about the afterlife. This is what he said: He answered without any hesitation. "Yes, I think about it. I used to be afraid. I used to be scared of dying. I used to worry about death. But now in some ways I look forward to it."'

Jenna continued: 'And I started crying. I managed to choke out, "Well, why? What do you look forward to?" And he said, "Well, when I die I'm going to be reunited with these people that I've lost." And I asked who he hoped to see He replied, 'I hope I see Robin, and I hope I see [Barbara]. I haven't yet figured out if it will be Robin as the three-year-old that she was this kind of chubby, vivacious child or if she'll come as a middle-aged woman, an older woman.

'And then he said, "I hope she's the three-year-old." Robin was the daughter of this giant of a man lost years before to leukemia. The little girl he held tightly, who spoke the phrase I have heard Gampy repeat for my entire life, forever knitting Robin's voice into the tightly woven fabric of our family: "I love you more than tongue can tell."'

The statement announcing Bush Snr's passing did not specify the cause of death, but he had long suffered from a form of Parkinson's disease and had been hospitalized several times for pneumonia and other infections in recent years. Days before his death, Bush Snr was reportedly being treated for low blood pressure.

Opening up: Jenna admitted that it was often difficult to get her grandfather to reflect on his own life, but revealed that they had the chance to enjoy a few candid conversations, during which he opened up about his thoughts on death

Special moments: She explained that many of these conversations took place 'on the back porch at his beloved Kennebunkport with the ocean view that meant so much to him in his childhood, and his advancing years too'

His eldest son George W Bush, the 43rd president, paid tribute to his father and the head of their political dynasty on behalf of his siblings, saying: 'Jeb, Neil, Marvin, Doro and I are saddened to announce that after 94 remarkable years, our dear Dad has died.

'George H.W. Bush was a man of the highest character and the best dad a son or daughter could ask for. The entire Bush family is deeply grateful for 41's life and love, for the compassion of those who have cared for and prayed for Dad, and for the condolences of our friends and fellow citizens,' the younger Bush added.

Brent Scowcroft, the national security adviser during Bush's presidency, said: 'The world has lost a great leader; this country has lost one of its best; and I have lost one of my dearest friends. I am heartbroken.'

Jenna Bush Hager on her grandfather's passing In the Instagram caption of two joyful photos with her grandfather, Jenna wrote: 'Waking up missing this giant of a man who gave me everything. He taught me and my family about service, family, decency, the power of gentle words and a beautiful heart. I will miss him desperately but so happy he and my Grandmother are back together.' In a second post, Jenna shared a comic that depicted her father arriving in heaven to meet his deceased wife and daughter: 'This brought me such comfort this morning. I had the opportunity to talk with my grandpa about the afterlife. This is what he said: He answered without any hesitation. "Yes, I think about it. I used to be afraid. I used to be scared of dying. I used to worry about death. But now in some ways I look forward to it." 'And I started crying. I managed to choke out, "Well, why? What do you look forward to?" And he said, "Well, when I die I'm going to be reunited with these people that I've lost." And I asked who he hoped to see He replied, 'I hope I see Robin, and I hope I see [Barbara]. I haven't yet figured out if it will be Robin as the three-year-old that she was this kind of chubby, vivacious child or if she'll come as a middle-aged woman, an older woman. 'And then he said, "I hope she's the three-year-old." Robin was the daughter of this giant of a man lost years before to leukemia. The little girl he held tightly, who spoke the phrase I have heard Gampy repeat for my entire life, forever knitting Robin's voice into the tightly woven fabric of our family: "I love you more than tongue can tell."' Advertisement

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania also paid tribute to Bush in a statement.

'Through his essential authenticity, disarming wit, and unwavering commitment to faith, family, and country President Bush inspired generations of his fellow Americans to public service - to be, in his words, 'a thousand points of light' illuminating the greatness, hope, and opportunity of America to the world,' the statement said.

'His example lives on, and will continue to stir future Americans to pursue a greater cause.'

First daughter Ivanka Trump retweeted her father's statement, writing: 'As I join a grieving nation in honoring the legacy of our 41st President, George Herbert Walker Bush, we remember with gratitude his lifetime of service and commitment. May he rest in peace reunited with his beloved wife and daughter.'

The White House released a statement on Saturday that said: 'The President and First Lady were notified late last night of President George H.W. Bushs passing. President Trump is scheduled to speak with President George W. Bush this morning and offer his condolences on behalf of himself, the First Lady, and the entire country. A state funeral is being arranged with all of the accompanying support and honors. The President will designate Wednesday, December 5th as a National Day Of Mourning. He and the First Lady will attend the funeral at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C.'

Other former presidents also weighed in with condolences on Bush's death.

Barack Obama said in a statement: 'America has lost a patriot and humble servant in George Herbert Walker Bush.'

'While our hearts are heavy today, they are also filled with gratitude. Our thoughts are with the entire Bush family tonight  and all who were inspired by George and Barbara's example,' he added.

Bill Clinton, who defeated Bush in the 1992 election, said in a statement: 'I will be forever grateful for the friendship we formed. From the moment I met him as a young governor invited to his home in Kennebunkport, I was struck by the kindness he showed to Chelsea, by his innate and genuine decency, and by his devotion to Barbara, his children, and their growing brood.'

'Few Americans have beenor will ever beable to match President Bush's record of service to the United States and the joy he took every day from it; from his military service in World War II, to his work in Congress, the United Nations, China, the Central Intelligence Agency, the Vice Presidency and the Presidency, where he worked to move the post Cold War world toward greater unity, peace, and freedom,' Clinton added.

His wife Hillary Clinton wrote on Twitter: 'George H.W. Bush was a beloved father & grandfather, a war hero, a public servant, & a class act. In my experiences w/ him, I always valued his desire to listen, look at evidence & ask for ideas, even from people w/ different beliefs. My heart goes out to the entire Bush family.'

A number of international leaders have also extended their condolences in the wake of Bush Snr's passing.

Addressing George W, his Holiness the Dalai Lama said: 'I am saddened by the passing away of your father, President George H.W. Bush. I offer my profound condolences to you and your family at this difficult time. He was, in fact, the first American president that I was privileged to meet. I recall being deeply touched by your fathers concern for the Tibetan people and the situation in Tibet.'

From across the pond, Queen Elizabeth said: 'It was with sadness that I learned of the death of President George H.W. Bush last night. President Bush was a great friend and ally of the United Kingdom. He was also a patriot, serving his country with honour and distinction in Office and during the Second World War.

'Prince Philip and I remember our days in Texas in 1991 with great fondness. My thoughts and prayers are with President Bushs family and the American people.'

UK Prime Minister Teresa May reacted in a similar fashion, writing on Twitter: 'President George H.W. Bushs ethos of public service was the guiding thread of his life and an example to us all. It took him from service in World War II to his stewardship of the CIA and his direction of the Gulf War as commander-in-chief. And in navigating a peaceful end to the Cold War, he made the world a safer place for generations to come.

A number of international leaders have also extended their condolences in the wake of Bush Snr's passing

'At each stage of his remarkable career, the President worked side-by-side with his friends, colleagues and counterparts in the United Kingdom. Today, Britain remembers a great statesman and a true friend of our country. We send our deepest condolences to the American people and to the family he leaves behind.'

French President Emanuel Macron tweeted: 'On behalf of the French people, I convey all my condolences to the American nation for the loss of former President George Bush. He was a world leader who strongly supported the alliance with Europe. Our sympathy to his family and beloved ones.'

German Chancellor Angela Merkel wrote a letter to President Trump saying America had lost 'a great patriot and statesman'.

'The German people had in him a true friend who recognized the significance of this historic hour and gave us his trust and support,' Merkel wrote, adding that 'the courageous and peaceful revolution by people east of the Iron Curtain met with the courage and skill and of a statesman who, together with others, led Europe and the trans-Atlantic partnership through this upheaval and ushered in a new era.'

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also tweeted: 'George H. W. Bushs exemplary service and deep commitment to his country informed everything he accomplished over his decades in public life. Sophie and I offer our condolences to his family and the American people on his passing.'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: 'On behalf of the people of Israel, I send heartfelt condolences to the Bush family and the American people on the passing of a great American patriot, President George H.W. Bush.

'His wise leadership at the end of the Cold War helped steer the world to a peaceful transition and the spread of democracy. The people of Israel will always remember his commitment to Israels security, his important contribution to the liberation of Soviet Jewry, and his efforts to achieve peace in the Middle East at the Madrid Conference.'

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed his condolences to the former president's son, writing in a statement on the Kremlin's website: 'Dear George, please accept my deepest condolences over the passing of your father, former U.S. President, George Herbert Walker Bush.

'An outstanding politician, he devoted his entire life to serving his country, both as a serviceman during wartime and in high-ranking public posts in peacetime. As U.S. president during one of the most important periods of world history, he showed political wisdom and foresight, and always sought balanced decisions even in the most difficult situations.

'George Bush Sr. was well aware of the importance of a constructive dialogue between the two major nuclear powers and took great efforts to strengthen Russian-American relations and cooperation in international security. I had the good fortune to have met with him several times. I recall with particular warmth him organizing our meeting at your wonderful summer home in Kennebunkport.

'My fellow citizens and I will always cherish the memory of George Bush Sr. In this sad time, I would like to pass worlds of heartfelt sympathy and support to all members of your large family. May you have endurance during this time of grievous and tragic loss.'Ivanka looked worn out as she stepped out of her house this morning in a $2,190 Oscar de la Renta gown finished with a dazzling $150 Kenneth Jay Lane bee pin.

The first daughter smiled brightly despite her apparent fatigue as she headed to work about a half hour after her husband Jared Kushner, 37.

It is Ivanka's first public appearance since she attended the 2018 G-20 summit in Buenos Aires over the weekend, as well as making a trip to Mexico for the inauguration of the president-elect.

All-navy: Ivanka Trump, 37, stepped out of her home in Washington, D.C. this morning wearing a $2,190 navy long-sleeve Oscar de la Renta dress

Finishing touches: The first daughter accessorized with a $150 antique gold bee pin (left), simple pearl earrings and navy boots (right)

Just two days after she was pictured stepping off a plane in Mexico City, Ivanka was seen wearing a split sleeve wool-blend dress, a long-sleeved simple navy design that fell to just below her knee.

The dress, which is now sold out in most sizes on a number of websites, featured a round neck, and long sleeves with split cuffs.

Ivanka, who clutched a bundle of newspapers and folders, brightened up the ensemble with her eye-catching pin, which she wore on the right-hand-side of the dress.

Bees hold many meaning throughout history; in Egypt they were traditionally recognized as a symbol of royalty and power, while in the Renaissance they were associated with love.

Interestingly, the bee is perhaps most well recognized as a symbol of the Catholic church, and the bee is featured throughout the design of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City - although, given that Ivanka is Jewish, it is unlikely that she chose her pin for that reason.

She may well have taken inspiration from Princess Beatrice, who wore a similar accessory to her sister Princess Eugenie's royal wedding in October.

But while Beatrice's pin was made mostly out of diamonds, Ivanka's version features antique gold, turquoise cabochons, a Cultura pearl and a ruby-colored center stone.

Worse for wear? Ivanka stepped out of her home in Washington D.C. this morning looking rather exhausted

Disheveled: Ivanka's hair was tousled and tucked behind her right ear as she stepped out of her house with husband Jared this morning

Matching: Jared Kushner, 37, sported a navy suit as he accompanied his wife this morning

The first daughter opted for matching knee-high navy boots to complete the look.

She accessorized with simple pearl earrings, and tousled hair tucked behind her ears.

Jared wore a navy suit with a crisp white shirt and a light grey tie.

It's no wonder the mother-of-three looks tired, as she has had a busy couple of days.

Ivanka attended the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on Friday.

It was here that her husband Jared was awarded the 'Order of the Aztec Eagle' by Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto.

The award is the highest a non-Mexican can receive, and was given to Jared for his for his 'significant contributions' in achieving recognition of the United StatesMexicoCanada Agreement.

She then attended the inauguration of President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador in Mexico on Saturday donning an all-white jumpsuit.

Landed: Ivanka beamed in a white jumpsuit as she and the other delegates arrived in Mexico City for the inauguration of President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Saturday

Honored: 'Today I will be accompanying @VP Pence, @SecondLady and members of the Presidential Delegation for the inauguration of President @lopezobrador_,' she tweeted

Ivanka dazzled in the a ensemble as she joined Vice President Mike Pence and other White House officials in Mexico for the inauguration.

The first daughter beamed in a white jumpsuit as she and the other delegates arrived at the ceremonies held in Mexico City.

'Today I will be accompanying @VP Pence, @SecondLady and members of the Presidential Delegation for the inauguration of President @lopezobrador_,' she said in a tweet on Saturday.

She added: 'Congratulations to the people of Mexico. It is an honor to join you in celebrating this historic day.' Ivanka accessorized her look with an intricate turquoise broach

'Congratulations to the people of Mexico. It is an honor to join you in celebrating this historic day.'

Ivanka accessorized her look with an intricate turquoise broach and tousled hair.

The first daughter and assistant to President Donald Trump smiled brightly as she greeted various dignitaries who were there to honor the new Mexican president.

Obrador reached out to the U.S. and Canada in his inaugural speech to Congress.

Ivanka and Pence were the first foreign dignitaries he greeted from the podium Saturday.

He also said that since the day he was elected, 'I have received respectful treatment from President Donald Trump.'

Ivanka and Pence were also joined by his wife, Karen.

Karen wore a black dress with a black blazer and belt to tie it all together.

Pence sported a dark blue suit with a white tie.It is unlikely the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will ever throw open the doors to their new home, but these photos offer a hint at what their private oasis at Frogmore Cottage might look like inside.

The snaps show the two-storey Toronto house that mother-to-be Meghan, 37, called home before she relocated to London to be with Prince Harry, 34.

The Duchess lived in the rented property while filming US legal drama Suits and would often share photos of the clean, feminine interiors on Instagram before shutting down her account.

The recently resurfaced images from the account provide some insight into Meghan's tastes and interior preferences and offer some idea of what she might plump for when it comes to redecorating the cottage.

Soft and welcoming: Recently resurfaced photos taken by Meghan, 37, of her former Toronto home offer a hint at what she might plump for when it comes to redecorating Frogmore House. Pictured, her dogs asleep on her deep white L-shape corner sofa in the two-storey home

Social media queen: Meghan frequently shared snaps of her interiors on Instagram before closing her account. Pictured, a large mirror dominated one wall of the crisp white bedroom

Carefully thought out: Meghan scentde her home with diffusers and candles, including Diptyque's Figuier (right) with fresh wood, green notes and crushed fig leaves

Organised: Meghan's artfully arranged shoe closet, which she reordered to perfection during a sick day. The Duchess is likely to have even more shoes in her collection as a royal

The photos show fresh flowers, coffee table books and expensive candles seen on display throughout the home.

Despite having dogs with muddy paws, the actress bravely opted for a white couch in her living space with a grey striped throw from the luxury textiles brand Pamuk and Co.

The brand specialises in traditional Turkish 'towels' made from high quality cotton, that can also be used as shawls, yoga mats, throws and baby mats and sell for a very reasonably 50 Canadian dollars or around 30.

Her dining table was white marble and she placed a full length shabby chic vintage mirror on the wall behind to create the illusion of extra space.

While the star favoured mid-century modern furniture and a white colour palette, she added vibrant pops of colour with accessories such as a red striped rug in the hallway.

Crisp and white: Above the bed in the guest room hung a figure study watercolour by New York based artist and illustrator Inslee Fariss, estimated to have cost $650 (520)

Vintage look: The star added depth to the room with an aged vintage mirror, which she placed behind her dining table, pictured. She might bring similar design flair to Frogmore Cottage

She is also a fan of fresh flowers, especially pink peonies which she's declared are her favourite.

She also had plenty of scented candles, including Diptyque's Figuier with fresh wood, green notes and crushed fig leaves and the Le Labo Santal 26 Classic Candle, 51, with 'gentle, smokey and leathery tones'.

Meghan also appreciates fine art, and had a print of one of fine art photographer Gray Malin's birds' eye view beach vistas on the the wall of her living area.

Vibrant touches: Meghan favoured a white colour palette but adds pops of colour with accessories such as a red striped rug in the hallway, pictured

Thoughtful extras: A monogrammed notebook, far left, posh candles, top right, and a vase of fresh white roses combine to create a stylish coffee table display in the Toronto home

Above the bed in the guest room hung a figure study watercolour by New York based artist and illustrator Inslee Fariss, estimated to have cost $650 (520).

In her own room, Meghan's bed frame was an oversized wrought iron birdcage design and she continued her white theme with the curtains and bedding.

Like any self-respecting fashionista, Meghan has an extensive collection of shoes and displayed them on floor-to-ceiling open shelving.

Meghan artfully arranged her books around the house, turning them into design features by perching them underneath jugs of flowers.

Spacious home: Photos taken of the rented property after Meghan moved out, pictured, offer an idea of the layout of her former home. Harry and Meghan spent much time there

Modern living: The couple spent much time in the open plan living area, pictured after Meghan moved out, as they allowed their relationship to blossom behind closed doors

Heart of the home: Self-confessed foodie Meghan would have spent hours in the kitchen, pictured in estate agent's photos after she moved out of the property

Her collection of coffee table fashion books, includes former Vogue Paris editor Carine Roitfeld's style bible and Linda McCartney's photographic memoir.

The Kinfolk Table by magazine editor Nathan Williams also features in several of her snaps, a tome that's part cookbook, part narrative tale and part photography from around the world.

The quaint home in a leafy Toronto suburb gave Meghan and Harry the space they needed to allow their relationship to blossom in private.

While Los Angles-born Meghan was in Toronto to film the legal drama Suits, Harry would visit up to twice a month.

The property was listed and sold by Freeman Real Estate, Toronto. =Queen Letizia of Spain showcased her signature sartorial flair as she attended the opening of an exhibition at the national art museum in Madrid on Monday.

The Spanish royal, 46, looked sharp in a grey structured blazer dress as she arrived at the Museo del Prado with husband King Felipe, 50.

Felipe, with whom Letizia shares two daughters, coordinated with his wife, putting on a dapper display in a pinstripe grey suit as they posed for pictures at the event.

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Queen Letizia of Spain brought her signature sartorial flair as she attended the opening of an exhibition at the national art museum in Madrid on Monday

The Spanish royal, 46, looked sharp in a grey structured blazer dress as she arrived at the Museo del Prado with husband King Felipe, 50

Letizia showed off her effortless style in her elegant dress, which fell just below her knees.

Boosting her stature alongside her 6ft 5inch husband, the royal teamed the frock with a pair of patent court shoes and a slim waist belt tied into a loose knot.

Wearing her glossy brunette locks in a sleek side parting, Letiiza added a pair of leaf-shaped diamond earrings and a dusting of highlighter and lipstick to complete her look.

Meanwhile Felipe looked handsome in a tailored suit and burgundy tie as he posed for pictures before mingling with fellow guests at the opening.

Boosting her stature alongside her 6ft 5inch husband, Letizia teamed the frock with a pair of patent court shoes and a slim waist belt tied into a loose knot

Felipe, with whom Letizia shares two daughters, coordinated with his wife, putting a dapper display in a pinstripe grey suit as they posed for pictures at the event

The Museo del Prado displays art dating back to the 12th century, and was founded in 1819.

With collections based on the former Spanish Royal Collection, it is considered to have one of the world's finest collections of European art.

The museum is one of the most visited sites in the world, and is considered to have one of the finest collections in the world.

Letizia has had a busy year of engagements, last week attending a glittering gala banquet at Madrid's Royal Palace before joining Labour Minister Magdalena Valerio to mark the 40th anniversary of the National Employment Institute.

Wearing her glossy brunette locks in a sleek side parting, Letiiza added a pair of leaf-shaped diamond earrings and a dusting of highlighter and lipstick to complete her look

Queen Letizia is mother to Princesses Leonor, 12, and Sofia, 11, with husband King Felipe, 50, who ascended to the Spanish throne in 2014.

Letizia married King Felipe ten years ago at Cathedral Santa Maria la Real de la Almudena in Madrid.

King Felipe ascended the throne following the abdication of his father King Juan Carlos in 2014.Federal education funding for K-12 is rising compared to where it was two years agobut there are disparities in terms of which states are reaping the most benefits. And federal aid to disadvantaged students is actually on course to decline in several states over the first two years of the Trump administration.

Those are two main takeaways from the most recent stats put out by the U.S. Department of Education about changes in funding over the last two years.

Some people might think that the Trump administration has cut federal spending on public schools in the last two years. If youre a somewhat attentive reader of this blog, you probably know thats not true. The Education Departments budget has increased by a small degree since President Donald Trump and Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos assumed office, even though the Trump team has sought to slash the agencys budget two years running. Congress has pointedly ignored the administrations push.

To gauge the state-by-state federal funding environment, we decided to look at changes in state-by-state funding between spending for fiscal 2017, the last budget Congress passed and President Barack Obama signed before Trump took office, and fiscal 2019 spending that Trump approved about two months ago. In addition to the total state-by-state spending on elementary and secondary education, we also broke out the changes for Title I grants to districts, which are earmarked for disadvantaged students and represent the single largest pot of federal K-12 cash. (Keep in mind that the fiscal 2019 numbers are estimates at this point, but they do at least give us a good idea of where the numbers are heading.)

 One winner over the past two years: California. The state with the largest public school enrollment is slated to get a Title I funding bump of more than 9 percent, from just over $1.8 billion in fiscal 2017 to a little over $2 billion in fiscal 2019. Total federal spending on California schools is estimated to increase 8.9 percent, from about $4.1 billion to roughly $4.4 billion.

 Another big winner? Oklahoma, where Title I spending is due to jump from $169 million to $190 million, an increase of more than 12 percent. Thats the single-largest percentage increase of any state we looked at. Its also noteworthy given the extremely high-profile political fight in the Sooner State over state spending on public education thats had a profound impact on schools and lawmakers. Overall spending on Oklahoma schools is due to rise by about 8.5 percent from fiscal 2017 to fiscal 2019.

 Whos losing out? Kansas. Education funding in the Sunflower State is due to decline from $333 million to $327 million from fiscal 2017 to fiscal 2019. The state has been embroiled in school finance wars for years, and it became one of the biggest issues in the recent governors race . In fact, Kansas is the only state where total elementary and secondary funding from the federal government is slated to dip from fiscal 2017 to fiscal 2019.

 Another region thats losing out, albeit from a narrower perspective, is New England. Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island are all estimated to receive less Title I money in fiscal 2019 than in fiscal 2017, although their aid didnt decline by much (Connecticut is due for the largest drop by percentage, or 4.4 percent.) And further South, the department estimates that Georgia will receive a $3 million dip in Title I funding, although thats just a tiny fraction of its fiscal 2017 Title I allocation of $540 million. One more Title I loser? DeVos home state of Michigan, where Title I aid is due to decline by 3.9 percent down to $485 million.



 Other than the Golden State, the Left Coast is seeing its Title I funding slip. Oregon and Washington are on track to get less Title I district aid for disadvantaged students than they did two years ago. The same is true for Utah. Further west than all those? Hawaii is on course for an 8.2 percent dip in Title I, the largest we saw for any state.

 Just because Congress decided to save a program from the Trump budget axe doesnt mean that there arent changes afoot in funding for individual states. West Virginia and Wisconsin, just to pick states, are each due to lose roughly $2 million in funding for their Supporting Effective Instruction grantsbetter known as Title II, a program the teachers unions among others desperately fought to save as Trump sought to eliminate themfrom fiscal 2017 to fiscal 2019. Thats a decline of 11.6 percent and 5.6 percent for West Virginia and Wisconsin, respectively.

 For individual programs across states, there tended to be relatively large increases in funding for homeless children and youth, special education, and career and technical education.

 Its not a state, but Puerto Rico is worth highlighting here. Its federal funding set-up is different than its state counterparts, but the department estimates the islands Title I aid will be $391 million in fiscal 2019, a decline of 4.2 percent, and its total elementary and secondary aid will total $650 million, a 1.9 percent dip. Keep in mind that the U.S. territory has been losing students for many years, a trend that accelerated after Hurricane Maria last year. But those shrinking stats might still be a tough pill to swallow for Puerto Rico since its still deep in recovery mode from the storm.

The Title I formula is remarkably complex. In fact, its really four formulas in one. Congress considered tinkering with it three years ago, not long before the Every Student Succeeds Act passed, but ultimately abandoned the effort. The formula depends on a variety of factors like student population and demographics. In fact, theres a decent amount of evidence its not particularly well targeted.

Also keep this in mind: Federal education funding tends to make up roughly 10 percent of total spending on public schools, so relatively short-term changes in Beltway aid tend not to have the same impact on any individual state as changes agreed to by that states lawmakers or local district decisionmakers.

Want to see some big winners in total federal education funding from fiscal 2017 to fiscal 2019? See the chart belowweve included the five states with the largest increases in total funding by percentage:

Federal K-12 Education Funding Increases - Fiscal 2017 to Fiscal 2019

Infogram

Want to thumb through the whole funding report? Be our guest; check it out below.

Follow us on Twitter at @PoliticsK12 .For someone who recoils from public attention, it is the most unexpected of developments. Ever since her daughter Kate was first courted by Prince William 15 years ago, Carole Middleton has been the model of discretion.

Only once has she spoken out to voice her concerns about the impact that scrutiny has had on her life: 'I'm not a celebrity and don't want to be one,' she volunteered. 'Celebrities have minders and PR people. I don't want a PR person and wouldn't want to have to pay to employ one. I haven't asked for all this.'

'All this', of course, was the relentless focus she has faced, on everything from her appearance, to her early life in a humble council flat and mockery over her social background, to her children and her marriage.

First, she appeared in a broadsheet newspapers colour supplement on Sunday. Now, Carole Middleton has also been interviewed in the new edition of Good Housekeeping magazine, in which she poses for the picture above surrounded by seasonal props

This rare intervention was long before Kate and William were even married, and years before Carole became the indispensable and capable grandmother to the future king. Even when the couple were engaged, Carole confined her public comments to just five words.

'We've never done this before,' she said, deferring to her husband Michael, who read from a written statement of their happiness at their daughter's betrothal to the Queen's grandson.

So her decision suddenly to grant not just one, but two, softly-softly magazine interviews has left courtiers baffled and also a little uneasy.

First, she appeared in a broadsheet newspapers colour supplement on Sunday. Now, she has also been interviewed in the new edition of Good Housekeeping magazine, in which she poses for the picture above surrounded by seasonal props.

The interviews appear at the very moment questions are being asked about her daughters frost relationship with her royal sister in law (the pair pictured together at Wimbledon in the summer, left) Catherine Duchess of Cambridge and her mother Carole Middleton at Royal Ascot in 2017 (right)

Carole with the Queen at Prince William and Kate Middleton's wedding

Is this, they wonder, the start of some new public relations strategy, or it simply a sign of the business-savvy drive of the very practical Mrs Middleton?

That the interviews appear at the very moment questions are being asked about her daughter's frosty relationship with her royal sister-in-law, the Duchess of Sussex, is surely a coincidence.

Carole Middleton with Kate and Pippa in 2011

Palace officials have been desperate to downplay talk of a rift between Kate and Meghan, and insist there has been no falling out which has affected their husbands' closeness.

Nevertheless, aides privately concede that the two duchesses do not get on particularly well. So Carole's decision to speak now, however coincidental, has only served to add to the intrigue.

Until Meghan and her very unconventional family came along, the Middletons were the number one in-laws. Welcomed into the Royal Family by William, they have been given front row seats at almost every key event since his Westminster Abbey wedding to their daughter in 2011.

They have cemented their place in royal life in a manner unthinkable a generation ago. In the process, they have nimbly avoided the traditional fate of royal in-laws down the ages.

For years, the Middletons' predecessors have been solidly sidelined and rarely invited to Royal Family gatherings.

Yet, two years ago, the couple were guests at Balmoral, the most intimate and private of all the royal residences, and Carole was photographed there in the front passenger seat of a car being driven by the Queen.

Not only did this bestow royal approval for the manner in which the couple have handled being thrust into the public eye, it also put an end to claims they were being frozen out because of their close involvement in the upbringing of the Queen's great-grandchildren.

Carole, remember, is the only grandmother George, Charlotte and Louis have and as such has been a vital consoling presence for Kate as well as an extra pair of hands.

But Meghan's arrival has undoubtedly upset this particular royal applecart.

And her gruelling festive masterplan... Do you dream wistfully of the perfect Christmas? The one person in the world who knows exactly how to pull it off is Carole Middleton. Heres how to have a Very Carole Christmas . . . PLAN MONTHS AHEAD Get your festive plans under way as soon as Halloween is over. Throw away your pumpkins and start thinking about Christmas. LOTS OF TREES, PLEASE Not only does Carole have a modern themed one and a memory tree with baubles from Christmases past, she also puts one in each of her grandchildrens rooms. Source trees from a nearby estate. BOX CLEVER Stick to one theme, such as all red, or all craft paper, or make a big thing with the ribbons. To make sure there are no oddly shaped presents under the tree, collect boxes throughout the year. A TOUCH OF FESTIVE RED Opt for a classy red dress  possibly from designer label Goat. (Dont fork out for one from Jigsaw which, Carole says, is a bit pricey.) When cooking, wear a pinny over it. If there are kids that need entertaining, copy Caroles husband Michael, who has been known to don a Sumo wrestler outfit on Christmas day. ALL THE TRIMMINGS Dont just cater for carnivores. Carole has recently gone vegan but still plans to serve up meat as well. Consider having the main meal in the evening, with champagne and smoked salmon for lunch. But if there are young children, do move it forward to lunchtime. STRICTLY FUN Dont spend the whole day cooking. Fit in a visit to church, a dog walk, or even a festive episode of Strictly. GAME ON Carole says you cant beat traditional family games such as musical statues and sardines. ORGANISATION IS THE KEY A strung-out host or hostess makes everyone tense, so be organised. DRESS CODE Always make the dress code clear on an invitation. Dont give the impression an event is casual if it isnt. PERFECT PRESENTS Buy thoughtful gifts. A Christmas Market is often the best place for last-minute shopping. THREE MUST-HAVES My Christmas essentials are mince pies, mulled wine and mistletoe, says Carole. MANNERS MATTER Always make sure to write thank you letters. Within ten days ideally. Advertisement

The former actress's fluent public appearances and the grace and dignity of her mother Doria, as well as her father Thomas Markle's bizarre pre-wedding meltdown, have made her a firm favourite.

With Harry by some distance the most admired royal after the Queen, he and Meghan have become one of the most glamorous couples on the planet.

His popularity and her campaigning zeal are fast turning the Sussexes into a daringly modern royal power couple.

Factor in, too, Meghan's pregnancy, which means another grandparent sharing the limelight with Prince Charles.

Some say this has all had a knock-on effect on the perception of William and Kate with the public.

Next year, when Harry and Meghan become parents, all eyes will be on them even more. And on softly-spoken Doria.

Ever since Prince Charles gallantly took her arm at Harry and Meghan's wedding in St George's Chapel, Windsor, he has become a huge admirer of the former yoga instructor and social worker.

While his relationship with the Middletons has been cordial rather than close, he has been irked that they have been closer to the grandchildren than he has been.

Some in royal circles suggest that as a consequence he has wanted to build a closer understanding with Harry's mother-in-law.

These competing dynamics make Mrs Middleton's interviews with the Telegraph and Good Housekeeping so intriguingly timed.

Outwardly, they were to mark the 30th anniversary of Party Pieces, her mail-order one-stop shop for party paraphernalia, but for a woman who has always proceeded with such caution, she must have agonised over the decision.

At the forefront of her thinking would have been the risk of speaking out, however well-intentioned.

After all, she only had to ask daughter Pippa, who was ridiculed after the publication of her party-planning book Celebrate, with its painfully obvious pieces of advice.

Even the royals themselves have come a cropper with business enterprises: think of the Countess of Wessex and her PR company.

And the Duchess of York, a free spirit commercially, has suffered embarrassments.

Inevitably, the question being asked yesterday was why Carole chose now to break her silence.

Experience, surely, would have told her that whatever she said it would be reported far and wide.

So I am certain that even though she would not have needed her son-in-law's permission, she must have sought it.

'Make no mistake, Carole would not have done it if there had been any objections,' says an old friend of the Middletons.

'In all these years, she hasn't put a foot wrong, and while she doesn't rock the boat she would also have wanted to ensure there was approval.'

Carole Middleton seen at Day 11 of Wimbledon 2017, left, and the January edition of Good Housekeeping

The disclosure that Kate sent her a text to wish her good luck ahead of the photoshoot indicates that her eldest daughter was in on it. Pippa and their brother James also gave their support to the project.

'It was very much a family decision,' a close source tells me. 'The feeling was 'why not'? Thirty years is a fantastic anniversary and is something to celebrate.'

However, I understand the timing of the interviews was critical.

According to a family source, the dates were deliberately chosen so they did not coincide with anything royal going on.

'Carole did not want to be accused of distracting from anything,' says the source.

There may be a clue in that brief exchange she had all those years ago, when she told a newspaper diarist: 'I feel very vulnerable about everything,' adding: 'I'm concerned about my business; that's my focus. I don't want the attention to detract from that.'

And the fact is Party Pieces has been a very good business. It began when she was pregnant with her son James and, keen for something to do, she hit upon the idea of providing all the bits and pieces for the parties that friends of Kate and Pippa were having.

Today there are around 7,000 products, which, during the busiest periods, generate 4,000 orders a week. And Christmas is clearly the busiest time of all.

So, on one level, Carole's interviews make perfect business sense. But if the enterprise has been such a phenomenal success, one is tempted to wonder why it should need any additional publicity. As a private company, run as a partnership, the firm does not have to publish its accounts or reveal any financial details.

Most small businesses in Britain are run as limited companies, which means their accounts have to be filed at Companies House, where they are available for all to see as a matter of public record.

Carole Middleton leaving the Sunday church service at The Church of St. Mary Magdalene at Sandringham in 2017

But being a general partnership, Party Pieces' accounts remain strictly between the Middletons and the taxman. This arrangement has tax advantages because it means they are taxed as individuals through income tax, and may pay lower National Insurance contributions.

The downside is that, should the company fail, all their worldly goods  including their home would be at risk. Yet that is hardly likely.

At the time of Kate and William's wedding, retail analysts predicted that the company, based a few minutes' drive from the Middleton family home at Bucklebury, Berks, was worth 30 million.

In the years since it has boomed. Carole and Michael are the only shareholders and the only directors.

So might they be looking to retire? Mike is 70 next year and Carole is 63.

Brand experts say it is the royal link that generates their firm's huge turnover. From her interview, Carole did not give the impression of someone wanting to sell up. Party Pieces is her baby and she is incredibly proud of what she has achieved.

Her enthusiasm for life, for family and for work shine through.

If nothing else, her interview reveals a kindly figure, cautious but also fun. Just the sort of motherly woman Kate might grow into.

Carole Middleton reveals she still asks Kate and Pippa for advice on her party business as she gives her second interview in a WEEK  after maintaining a 15-year silence

The Duchess of Cambridge's mother has given her second interview in a week as she continues to speak publicly following a 15-year silence.

Carole Middleton, 63, broke personal protocol to speak to two publications - and pose for accompanying photo shoots - after declining media requests in an apparent bid to maintain the privacy of her daughter Kate, 36, son-in-law Prince William, 36, and their young family.

Well versed in living in the public sphere, Mrs Middleton spoke to Good Housekeeping about her company Party Pieces but seemed less inclined to talk about her children.

Close bond: Mrs Middleton husband Michael, daughter Pippa and son-in-law James at Prince Louis' christening at St James's Palace in July

It comes days after her interview with Daily Telegraph journalist Lisa Armstrong, which was published in two parts over the weekend.

Speaking in Good Housekeeping's January issue, the mother-of-three told how she still turns to Kate, Pippa, 35, and James, 31, for business advice.

She said: 'My children have all worked for the business. Catherine started the First Birthday brand  she chose the products and looked after all the imagery and the catalogue production.

'Pippa set up the blog, as we didn't have one. James came up with the idea of personalised cakes and got them off the ground for us.

Fourth grandchild: Pippa Middleton and her husband James Matthews, pictured at Princess Eugenie's wedding in October, welcomed their son Arthur just a few days later and he will be celebrating his first Christmas with the Middletons in Berkshire

'Because they all grew up with me working, Party Pieces has been very much part of our lives and what we talked about. I still ask their advice and say "What do you think of this?"'

Carole, 63, who celebrates 30 years of success with Party Pieces this year, told how she started the company after she and husband Michael, 69, returned to the UK after living abroad.

'In 1987, I had two young children and was pregnant with my son, James,' she recalled. 'We had come back to the UK from living abroad and I was a full-time mum.

'I didn't want to miss out on my children growing up, so I considered starting my own business.'

The idea for Party Pieces came from her own personal need for supplies for her own children's parties. After putting a notice in her daughters' playgroup, she quickly found there was a demand for a dedicated business.

She continued: 'For the first year, business came through advertising in playgroups. Our big break came when I used a company called Red House Books to send out flyers about Party Pieces.

'We put out 10,000 leaflets, which gave a huge boost to our orders. I thought if we could do that on 10,000, why not send out 100,000? We could scale up.

'We realised we needed a warehouse, so we moved to a small start-up unit in Hungerford. In 1995, we moved to Child's Court Farm, where we've been ever since.'

In her interview with the Daily Telegraph, Mrs Middleton, whose grandson Prince George is the future king, described herself as 'normal' and a 'hands-on' mother and grandmother, and said family comes first in her life.

The 63-year-old said her family is 'paramount', adding: 'They come first and that will always be the case, even when I have more me time.'

She added: 'My biggest fear (as her offspring grew up) was that I'd lose my family, but we've stayed close. '

Referring to William and her daughter Pippa's husband James Matthews, a hedge fund manager, she said: 'I have two lovely sons-in-law and I hope I'll have a lovely daughter-in-law.'

Mrs Middleton is grandmother to Prince George, five, Princess Charlotte, three, and Prince Louis, seven months. Her youngest grandson Arthur, the first child of Pippa and James, was born in October.

The full interview appears in the January issue of Good Housekeeping, on sale 5th December. For more exclusive content visit www.goodhousekeeping.co.uk/carole-middletonShirley Leather, 46, from Sussex, pictured with her son Freddy has seen her quality of life change beyond recognition since being put on tofacitinib in a trial in 2014

A 'life-transforming' drug for severe bowel disease has won NHS backing after studies showed that patients given the twice-daily pill can go into complete remission after years of suffering.

Some of those who took part in trials got better even though they had failed to respond to all other treatments.

The 8,000-a-year medication has now won the support of the spending watchdog, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which has approved the treatment for patients with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis.

The illness, caused by the immune system going haywire and attacking healthy bowel tissues, affects 146,000 Britons.

Many are young as the illness tends to strike between the ages of 15 and 25 and causes debilitating symptoms, ranging from recurrent diarrhoea to unplanned weight loss.

Consultant gastroenterologist Dr Barney Hawthorne, of University Hospital Wales in Cardiff, welcomed the development. Ulcerative colitis is a rotten disease and one in ten patients ends up having the colon removed, he said.

Other strong drugs we use are given by injection of intravenous drip, and patients can become resistant to them, so they no longer work. There is less chance of this happening with the new medication, and as its a tablet, patients can take it at home, which is far more convenient.

Current drug treatments for ulcerative colitis include steroids that dampen down inflammation and others that try to turn down the immune systems response.

These can be very effective, but some sufferers still end up needing surgery to have part of the damaged colon removed.

The new pill, called tofacitinib, taken twice daily for eight weeks, then at a lower maintenance dosage, could offer these patients hope.

Shirley Leather, 46, from Sussex, has seen her quality of life change beyond recognition since being put on tofacitinib in a trial in 2014.

The mother-of-two, a warehouse manager, had suffered with ulcerative colitis for a decade. The condition struck in 2004, shortly after the birth of her first child. She blamed the diarrhoea and passing of blood on part of the process of pregnancy. But at her six-week check-up her GP realised something was wrong and referred her to a specialist. Shirley was told she had ulcerative colitis.

Some 146,000 Britons are affected by ulcerative colitis, pictured

Oral steroids helped at first, but her weight ballooned and her self-esteem plummeted.

At my worst I would go to the toilet 27 times a day, she says. The fatigue was overwhelming. Most days I would have to sleep in the afternoon, trying to make my two young children understand that Mummy needed to sleep and that they must play quietly.

By the time I was offered this trial, I was at my very lowest and desperate to find anything that could give me back some sort of quality of life.

Tofacitinib is a type of drug called a Janus kinase inhibitor, or Jakinib. Janus kinases are enzymes that help to activate the immune response. By blocking the effect of the enzymes, the drug stops the immune system destroying healthy tissue.

It can have side-effects  including chest infections, headaches and diarrhoea  but Sarah Berry, from Crohns and Colitis UK, a charity which pressed NICE to back the drug, said: This drug offers a huge amount of hope.

Tofacitinib is expected to be available on the NHS in England and Wales from early next year. A decision in Scotland is due in February.

Shirley says: Life has been a rollercoaster with ulcerative colitis. But I can honestly say this drug has totally changed my life. I have been in remission for over three years and feel like a completely new person.

l crohnsandcolitis.org.ukA former student of Sir Alexander Fleming claims the eminent scientist predicted the surge of antibiotic resistance just years after he discovered penicillin.

William 'Bill' Frankland, 106, said if the the legendary pharmacologist were still alive he would say: 'This is what I knew was going to happen.'

Dr Frankland, a British immunologist, claims Sir Fleming made the chilling warning in 1936, when he was a student at his lectures.

Sir Fleming's discovery of penicillin in 1928 marked the start of modern antibiotics.

He warned in the years after its discovery that anyone prescribing it thoughtlessly would be responsible for 'the death of man'.

Sir Alexandra Fleming, who discovered penicillin, warned about the threat of antibiotic resistance in the 1930s, according to his former student, Dr William Frankland

British immunoligist Dr William Frankland was a student of Sir Fleming's in 1936 and later a clinical assistant at St Mary's Hospital between 1953 and 1955. Pictured after being appointed an Officer of Order of the British Empire (OBE) at Buckingham Palace in 2015

Penicillin was discovered in 1928, marking the start of modern medicine

Antibiotics have been doled out unnecessarily by GPs and hospital staff for decades, fueling once harmless bacteria to become superbugs.

Dr Frankland, who is Imperial College London's oldest alumnus, said he 'hardly knew what he was talking about', whilst being taught by Sir Fleming, who died in 1955.

'He said, which sounded incredible at the time, it will be overused because it will be so successful', Dr Frankland said.

'Bacteria are very clever and will form some bacteria which will not be killed by my penicillin.'

Dr Frankland said: 'That was in 1936, so already he was anticipating what now is a great worry. As a student, I hardly knew what he was talking about.

'If Fleming was living to this day he would say, "This is what I knew was going to happen".'

WHAT IS ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE? Antibiotics have been doled out unnecessarily by GPs and hospital staff for decades, fueling once harmless bacteria to become superbugs. The World Health Organization (WHO) has previously warned if nothing is done the world is heading for a 'post-antibiotic' era. It claimed common infections, such as chlamydia, will become killers without immediate solutions to the growing crisis. Bacteria can become drug resistant when people take incorrect doses of antibiotics or if they are given out unnecessarily. Former chief medical officer Dame Sally Davies claimed in 2016 that the threat of antibiotic resistance is as severe as terrorism. Figures estimate that superbugs will kill 10 million people each year by 2050, with patients succumbing to once harmless bugs. Around 700,000 people already die yearly due to drug-resistant infections including tuberculosis (TB), HIV and malaria across the world. Concerns have repeatedly been raised that medicine will be taken back to the 'dark ages' if antibiotics are rendered ineffective in the coming years. In addition to existing drugs becoming less effective, there have only been one or two new antibiotics developed in the last 30 years. In September, the WHO warned antibiotics are 'running out' as a report found a 'serious lack' of new drugs in the development pipeline. Without antibiotics, C-sections, cancer treatments and hip replacements will become incredibly 'risky', it was said at the time. Advertisement

In his many speeches around the world, Sir Fleming reportedly sounded similar warnings. In a 1945 Nobel lecture, he cited 'underdosing' by ignorant members of the public as the principal danger.

In a New York Times article he said: 'The microbes are educated to resist penicillin and a host of penicillin-fast organisms is bred out... In such cases the thoughtless person playing with penicillin is morally responsible for the death of the man who finally succumbs to infection with the penicillin-resistant organism. I hope this evil can be averted.'

The remarks are now echoed by health experts today, as antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest threats to human existence.

Antibiotic resistance occurs naturally, but misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals is accelerating the process, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

WHO list the growing number of infections that are becoming harder to treat due to resistance, including pneumonia, tuberculosis, gonorrhoea, and salmonellosis.

Dr Frankland worked with Dr Flemind as clinical assistant at St Mary's Hospital in central London between 1953 and 1955, The Times reports.

Due to his fame for developing a breakthrough drug, the two of them would spend precious work time dealing with Sir Fleming's fan mail.

He would receive up to 30 letters a day from patients whose lives had been saved by penicillin.

Many asked for an autograph on a reprint of his paper which announced the finding of substance benzylpenicillin (Penicillin G) from the mould Penicillium notatum.

Sir Fleming was knighted for his scientific achievements in 1944, and was seen as one of the most important people of the 20th century.

Sir Alexander Fleming, pictured in 1951, said in 1945 that the unnecessary use of antibiotics were the main danger to the public, and 'death of man'

Dr Frankland's time with Sir Fleming were revealed in a biography, From Hell Island to Hay Fever, The Life of Dr Bill Frankland, written by Paul Watkins.

Dr Frankland himself was responsible for the inclusion of pollen counts in weather bulletins.

He was prompted to share his pollen measuring from the air in 1963 when patients' concerns about their hayfever became frustrating.

This included one particular patient who was adamant that her hayfever was caused by her roses, while Dr Frankland knew that it was grass.

He said: 'After seeing this silly woman I thought people must learn a bit about it. I rang up The Times and the Telegraph and said, "Would you like a daily pollen count?" And they said yes.'

Despite being 106, he plans to publish another paper in the next year that will look into the history of mould, and how Sir Fleming identified penicillin.

Dr Franklin, who told Saddam Hussein to stop smoking in the 1970s, puts his longevity down to 'a guardian angel that looks after me'.

He said: 'I have been so near death so many times but every time I just missed it. Once it was just the flick of a coin that saved my life.'A brave mother-of-three has posed topless to embrace her double mastectomy scars after beating cancer three times.

Gemma Cockrell, 49, wanted to show the 'real' side of surviving breast cancer to other women, after only being presented with leaflets with 'black and white drawings'.

Mrs Cockrell, a businesswoman who lives in Kingston-upon-Thames, London, has decided not to have a breast reconstruction, despite her surgeons wishes.

The photos were to empower women to say no to surgical procedures they may feel 'bullied' into having and instead feel lovable regardless of their appearance, Mrs Cockrell said.

Gemma Cockrell, 49, had a double mastectomy and has done a photoshoot to empower other women in her situation to feel comfortable in their skin after beating cancer three times

Mrs Cockrell, pictured with her husband, James, says she turned down surgeons offers of breast reconstruction and chose self acceptance instead

Mrs Cockrell was first diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2013, and despite treatment and surgeries for the persistent disease, she continued to work and care for her three children with husband, James.

She first had three lumpectomy surgeries to remove the cancer followed by a month of radiotherapy.

Then, two years later, Mrs Cockrell's cancer returned in the same breast and scans revealed that it had spread into her lymph nodes.

She then had a mastectomy followed by emergency surgery in December 2015.

Then it took Mrs Cockrell longer to bounce back but she was well looked after by hospital staff and her family.

She said: 'I knew it was much more serious this time and so the impact on my life was far greater. It took me a little while to get over it, but I was very well looked after.'

In February 2017, Mrs Cockrell felt as though something wasn't right in her remaining breast so opted to have it removed.

Doctors discovered that there was cancer present.

She said: 'I had an inkling something wasn't right. When they removed the breast, they found that it too, had cancer in it.

'That made me feel incredibly vulnerable, as if there was very little I could really do to stop it coming back.'

Since then, Mrs Cockrell has been cancer-free, and although her doctors were persistent in offering her breast reconstruction, she turned it down.

Mrs Cockrell, from Kingston-upon-Thames, set up her own business after her diagnosis in 2013 to distract herself. She says telling her three children with her husband was the hardest part of treatment, as they feared she would not survive

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world and affects more than two MILLION women a year Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Each year in the UK there are more than 55,000 new cases, and the disease claims the lives of 11,500 women. In the US, it strikes 266,000 each year and kills 40,000. But what causes it and how can it be treated? What is breast cancer? Breast cancer develops from a cancerous cell which develops in the lining of a duct or lobule in one of the breasts. When the breast cancer has spread into surrounding breast tissue it is called an 'invasive' breast cancer. Some people are diagnosed with 'carcinoma in situ', where no cancer cells have grown beyond the duct or lobule. Most cases develop in women over the age of 50 but younger women are sometimes affected. Breast cancer can develop in men though this is rare. Staging means how big the cancer is and whether it has spread. Stage 1 is the earliest stage and stage 4 means the cancer has spread to another part of the body. The cancerous cells are graded from low, which means a slow growth, to high, which is fast growing. High grade cancers are more likely to come back after they have first been treated. What causes breast cancer? A cancerous tumour starts from one abnormal cell. The exact reason why a cell becomes cancerous is unclear. It is thought that something damages or alters certain genes in the cell. This makes the cell abnormal and multiply 'out of control'. Although breast cancer can develop for no apparent reason, there are some risk factors that can increase the chance of developing breast cancer, such as genetics. What are the symptoms of breast cancer? The usual first symptom is a painless lump in the breast, although most breast lumps are not cancerous and are fluid filled cysts, which are benign. The first place that breast cancer usually spreads to is the lymph nodes in the armpit. If this occurs you will develop a swelling or lump in an armpit. How is breast cancer diagnosed? Initial assessment: A doctor examines the breasts and armpits. They may do tests such as a mammography, a special x-ray of the breast tissue which can indicate the possibility of tumours.

Biopsy: A biopsy is when a small sample of tissue is removed from a part of the body. The sample is then examined under the microscope to look for abnormal cells. The sample can confirm or rule out cancer. If you are confirmed to have breast cancer, further tests may be needed to assess if it has spread. For example, blood tests, an ultrasound scan of the liver or a chest x-ray. How is breast cancer treated? Treatment options which may be considered include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone treatment. Often a combination of two or more of these treatments are used. Surgery: Breast-conserving surgery or the removal of the affected breast depending on the size of the tumour.

Radiotherapy: A treatment which uses high energy beams of radiation focussed on cancerous tissue. This kills cancer cells, or stops cancer cells from multiplying. It is mainly used in addition to surgery.

Chemotherapy: A treatment of cancer by using anti-cancer drugs which kill cancer cells, or stop them from multiplying

Hormone treatments: Some types of breast cancer are affected by the 'female' hormone oestrogen, which can stimulate the cancer cells to divide and multiply. Treatments which reduce the level of these hormones, or prevent them from working, are commonly used in people with breast cancer. How successful is treatment? The outlook is best in those who are diagnosed when the cancer is still small, and has not spread. Surgical removal of a tumour in an early stage may then give a good chance of cure. The routine mammography offered to women between the ages of 50 and 70 mean more breast cancers are being diagnosed and treated at an early stage. For more information visit breastcancercare.org.uk, breastcancernow.org or www.cancerhelp.org.uk Advertisement

She said: 'After I decided to have a mastectomy, I really felt that I had let my surgeon down, and that I was a bit of a disappointment to them.

'They obviously know what they can make you look like with reconstruction, but I felt quite strongly that the decision should be mine.

'I was really encouraged by the hospital to have reconstruction, but I didn't want to.

'I actually feel normal. I rarely think about it, other than if I'm in a situation where I have to get dressed/undressed with other people, like at the gym.

'I know I'm fine with how I look I'm just aware that others might not be. I'm very lucky that my husband is just super happy I'm still on the planet and isn't bothered by how I look.'

Mrs Cockrell posed in the photoshoot to celebrate her flat chest and scars and empower women who are also facing the same decisions to not feel pressured into any procedures they aren't comfortable with.

She said: 'I decided to do the photoshoot as it's important to me that other women in my situation feel empowered to make their own decisions and that you are still the same person inside, you can still love and be loved.

'Make your own decisions about your health and your body and don't be bullied into an immediate decision. Feel happy in your own skin.

'I also felt there weren't enough 'real' photos out there. I was given a booklet with a black and white drawing.'

The hardest part for Mrs Cockrell has been reassuring her three children, Reid (25), Torrin (20) and Jove (14), that she would beat cancer.

She was part of a trial called The Big Trial, which was to see how many women would have a recurrence of breast cancer after differing times of radiotherapy.

'Although I was scared, I was more worried for my children and how they would feel and cope if anything happened to me', she said.

'Telling my children, absolutely definitely was the worst thing in all of this. My youngest boy had six months of therapy after the second diagnosis as he was convinced I was going to die. We still have a ritual we go through every night that makes him feel I will be ok.

'I was telling my children that I couldn't promise them I was going to be ok, only that I am ok right now.'

Incredibly, Mrs Cockrell continued to work throughout her treatment, and even set up her own business after her diagnosis.

'All throughout treatment I continued to work, I would just dive in and out for treatment', she said.

Her handmade natural skincare company, Ways Gone By, gave her something to focus on throughout her recovery. The business offers cancer care packages which she donates half of the profits of to cancer charities.

She said: 'The business was a god send really as it allowed me to focus on something else. I couldn't think of anything worse than not being busy as I would then sit and think too much.

'The only problem with having treatment was really the physical effects and having to rely on others to do things for you.

'Juggling a family and working is always difficult, even when you're not fighting an illness! My boys ate a lot of pasta.'

Speaking of her photos, Mrs Cockrell said: 'I don't really think of deliberately wanting to be inspirational, I just want others to know that life can go on as normal even if you don't quite look the same.'A woman lost an eye after a parasite found lurking in shower water became stuck behind her contact lens.

Petra van Kalmthout, from Belgium, took a shower while wearing her lenses on a sailing holiday three years ago.

When her eye became red and painful days later, Ms van Kalmthout visited her GP, who prescribed her eye drops and creams.

Barely able to see from the agony, Ms van Kalmthout went to Antwerp University Hospital, where doctors discovered a acanthamoeba keratitis parasite in the cornea of her right eye.

Too late to treat with drops, surgeons tried twice to remove the parasite before they were forced to take out her eye.

After wearing an eye patch for three years, Ms van Kalmthout has since been fitted with a prosthetic but will always be partially blind.

Petra van Kalmthout lost her right eye after a parasite lurking in shower water became stuck behind her contact lens. Pictured three years later with a prosthetic eye, she became infected with a acanthamoeba keratitis parasite in her cornea while showering and wearing lenses

Surgeons initially fought to save her eye in two operations, however, it was too late and Ms van Kalmthout was forced to wear a patch after having it removed. Ms van Kalmthout was almost relieved by the surgery and said the operation ended 'a period of pain' in her life

Speaking of her initial symptoms, Ms van Kalmthout said: 'I came back on Saturday from holiday.

'I had a party and in the evening my eye hurt a bit. I immediately took out my contact lens. I threw it away. The next day my eye was red and was even more painful.'

After going to see her GP and then specialist eye doctors, Ms van Kalmthout discovered it was too late to treat the parasite with chlorine eye drops.

'When I had my eye removed it was the end of a period with pain,' she said. 'And yes, that you then have to live your life with an eye patch is a choice which you consciously make.'

Ms van Kalmthout has recently received an ocular prosthesis, which means she no longer requires an eye patch.

'The water that comes out of the tap can cause a lot of suffering. For three years my eye determined my life,' she said.

'Now that I finally have a prosthesis I can grab life in my hands again. I will start by going a night out dancing.'

Around 45 people in Belgium get infected with a acanthamoeba parasite every year, however, it rarely has such dramatic consequences. Approximately 125 suffer annually in the UK.

Doctors advise against taking a shower or swimming while wearing soft contacts and say those who do so should throw them away immediately afterwards. There is much less of a risk with hard lenses because they repel water.

In all cases, contacts should be cleaned with special cleaner solution and not with tap water.

Pictured wearing the prosthetic, Ms van Kalmthout said she can 'grab life in her hands again' after everything revolved around her eye for years - and she first wants a night out dancingA little girl has written a heart-wrenching letter to Santa Claus, asking for a new kidney for her brother.

The letter was dropped off at a Lowe's Home Improvement department store in Franklin, North Carolina, which has a mailbox where children can leave notes for Santa.

Written in green, blue and purple crayon, the message reads: 'Dear Santa, Some may not believe in you. But I do. One thing I really want for Christmas is my big brother to get a kidney transplant. PLEASE.'

Aside from her name, Kaitlyn, the identity of the girl remains unknown - but her letter has now gone viral with store employees hoping they can find her family and provide them with support.

A heart-wrenching letter written by a little girl to Santa Claus, asking for her brother to receive a kidney transplant, was found at a mailbox at a Lowe's Home Improvement department store in Franklin, North Carolina

Store manager Shelly Thomas told DailyMail.com that she was cleaning out the mailbox on Friday, November 23, as she does on a daily basis when she came across the letter.

'We take the letters out and sometimes we read them because you never know what the big item will be this year,' she said.

'We have these fill-out forms for Santa, but this one was written on the back of one of the coloring sheets. It really touched me.'

Thomas said she first tried looking through video surveillance footage to try to track down the parents or the child, but there was no luck.

After getting clearance from Lowe's marketing manager, Thomas posted a photo of the note to Facebook.

'This is a "Letter to Santa" that was left in Santa's mailbox at Lowe's of Franklin,' she wrote. 'Our company is wanting to see if anyone out there may know who this child is. If you would, please share this so we can possibly get in contact with this family.'

So far, the post has been shared nearly 900 times with some well-wishers saying they're willing to be tested once the family is found.

Next to Kaitlyn's name is 'FL', leading to Thomas believe the girl's family may have been visiting from Florida.

'We haven't been able to reach the folks but what I really hope is that we find them, give them support, let them know someone cares,' Thomas said.

'So many people have said they're willing to get tested and if we can get even one more person registered [to be an organ donor], it's all worth it.'

According to the American Kidney Fund, an estimated one in 65,000 US children is suffering from kidney failure, which can affect growth and bone strength.

Kidneys are the body's natural filters and, when they are not functioning properly, excess waste can build up in the body. A child's brain development could be affected by this and cause learning disabilities.

Although children can be placed on dialysis, a kidney transplant is considered the best treatment option.

Because the message is signed 'Kaitlyn FL', store employees believe the family was visiting from Florida. The note has been shared on social media with workers hoping they can track down Kaitlyn's family. Pictured: The 'Letters to Santa' area at Lowe's

However, half of all children with chronic kidney disease, will likely require several transplants throughout their lifetimes.

Children older than age two can receive an adult kidney as long as it fits in their body and the child's own kidneys are generally not removed.

In older children, new kidneys are placed in the lower right side of the stomach whereas, in younger children, they're placed in the middle of the stomach.

Once the donor's and recipient's blood are proven to be compatible, there are two more blood tests, according to Allina Health.

The first is tissue-typing, which looks at the number of antigens, or genetic markers, the donor and recipient share.

The second is cross-matching, which is to ensure the recipient will react to the new kidney.

These are followed by a physical exam, a chest X-ray, a CT scan of the abdomen, a follow-up blood test within a week of the scan, and a 24-hour urine collection.So, you're going on a date and you're understandably a bit nervous. And then you feel it  a churning and cramping in your gut. Suddenly you're running to the toilet and wondering why your body reacts this way. How does a case of nerves translate to an upset stomach? What is actually happening in your body?

Feeling an upset tummy when we're nervous is normal. The broad term dyspepsia refers to any discomfort in the upper abdomen or abdominal pain, and is very common when we're anxious and stressed. A systematic review pooling data from a number of studies found that around one quarter of people have dyspepsia.

When we get nervous, a number of processes occur in the brain that are passed onto the stomach and affect the digestive process. This is a hangover from our hunter-gatherer days and part of the fight or flight response  a physiological reaction to a perceived harmful event, attack or threat to survival.

Vincent Ho, a gastroenterologist at Western Sydney University, explains that in some stressful situations, the pelvic nerve can be activated and stimulates neurons in the rectum wall

When we're in a relaxed state, there is more energy for digestion.

The speedier movements of our stomach and small bowel (intestines) facilitate better absorption of nutrients.

But during stress, digestion and the movements in our stomach and small intestines slow down, while movements in our large bowel (or colon) increase.

It's the increased movement in our large bowel that in some cases has us running to the toilet. Here's how that happens.

Brief history of experiments

We can thank two patients, who had very rare accidents, for our early understanding of what happens to the stomach when we're anxious and stressed.

In 1822, 19-year-old Alexis St Martin suffered a gun-shot wound to the stomach. He survived, but developed a permanent hole in his stomach that refused to heal. This hole extended to the outside skin of his abdomen.

While undoubtedly awful for Alexis, army doctor William Beaumont saw a unique opportunity. Beaumont used the hole as a window into the process of digestion, conducting experiments to better understand the inner workings of the gut, which included the impact of Alexis' emotional response on the stomach.

When Alexis became angry, for instance, Beaumont noticed his digestion was impaired.

Further observations were carried out by doctor Stewart Wolf on another patient, Tom Little.

In 1894, when he was nine years old, Tom drank something that severely damaged his oesophagus. He had a hole created in his stomach for feeding.

As with Alexis, Wolf observed Tom's stomach under periods of emotional stress. He found fear would make Tom's stomach turn white and a period of depression could virtually stop digestion.

Fight or flight and the gut

In the early 20th century, scientist Walter Cannon coined the term 'fight or flight response' after observing the reaction of animals in response to stressful events. He saw that when cats were acutely stressed, movement in their upper guts, including the stomach and small intestine, was markedly reduced.

This process involved two parts of our nervous system, known as the sympathetic and the parasympathetic.

The sympathetic nervous system is activated during times of stress and puts the body on a war-like footing.

The parasympathetic nervous system, on the other hand, acts like a brake. It promotes the 'rest and digest' response that calms the body down after the stress has passed, and helps conserve energy.

When we feel stressed, a region of the brain called the hypothalamus (which helps regulate emotions) produces the corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH)  the key hormone that activates the sympathetic system.

CRH can stimulate the release of another hormone  the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)  which then releases cortisol from the adrenal gland (found above the kidneys).

Cortisol is an important hormone in the fight or flight response. It helps us get ready to fight or escape danger and can lead to slowing down the movement in our stomach.

This is thought to be an evolutionary mechanism as blood is diverted away from the stomach and small intestine to the skeletal muscles and lungs, preparing the body for defence.

The movements of the stomach and small intestine as well as digestion accelerate again once the parasympathetic system is activated.

When we feel stressed, a region of the brain called the hypothalamus (which helps regulate emotions) produces the corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH)  the key hormone that activates the sympathetic system

But it's different in the colon (large bowel).

During periods of stress and anxiety, movement in the large bowel actually increases, though this is not caused by the sympathetic nervous system.

It is actually those same parasympathetic system fibres that carry a 'rest and digest' response that are thought to deliver the signals to the colon.

CRH can be transmitted down those fibres directly to the wall of the colon where it stimulates receptors to produce fluid and increases colonic movements.

This doesn't ordinarily lead to more poo or diarrhoea during acute stress because defecation requires a more complex and coordinated set of functions.

But in some stressful situations, the pelvic nerve can be activated and directly stimulates neurons in the wall of the rectum. This then triggers increased rectal activity and defecation.

Functional dyspepsia?

We now have a way to work out what areas of the brain become active when the stomach is under stress. This is done through imaging the brain. Neuroimaging techniques can measure changes in blood flow in the brain and correlate these changes (or activations) to brain activity.

When a balloon is inflated in the stomach, stretching the stomach wall in healthy people to test its sensitivity, some areas of the brain such as the amygdala and insula that are involved in the processing of emotions become very active. In people with functional dyspepsia  a condition with symptoms such as pain or discomfort localised to the upper part of the abdomen in the absence of a physical cause  these brain areas may fail to deactivate.

Research in functional dyspepsia patients has found that negative emotional memory can affect their brain activity.

Read more: Explainer: what is irritable bowel syndrome and what can I do about it?

If symptoms become abnormally severe and chronic it may be worth seeing a doctor to consider whether further investigations and treatment are required. If investigations such as endoscopy do not show any abnormalities then functional dyspepsia is a possible diagnosis. These patients are the ones most likely to experience upper abdominal symptoms provoked by stress and anxiety.

Strategies tailored to help with negative emotions and thoughts such as cognitive behavioural therapy can be beneficial.Islamic finance is one of the fastest expanding financial services sectors in the UK with specialist savings and loans products now widely available.

There are six standalone Islamic banks and 20 conventional banks offering Sharia-compliant financial products and services in the UK at present - and these numbers are expected to rise.

Savings products that operate under Sharia principles - where savers are given an expected profit rate rather than guaranteed interest - offered by the likes of Gatehouse bank often find their way into our savings best buy tables.

Now the first Sharia-compliant robo-adviser, Wahed Invest, has launched in the UK, allowing savers to invest in ethically responsible stocks, Islamic bonds called sukuk and gold.

Wahed Invest asks you a series of basic questions like why you want to invest and how long for to gauge whether investing is appropriate to your circumstances

You don't need to be a Muslim to become a Halal investor - you just need 100 to open an account.

But investing through the online wealth manager is not cheap. It costs those with less than 250,000 to invest an average of 1.73 per cent plus an additional transaction charge to do so. Is it worth it?

We take a look.

What's on offer?

Now you can become a Halal investor: The first Sharia-compliant robo-adviser launches in the U

According to Islamic teachings, Riba (usury or interest) is Haram (forbidden) but it is a key guiding tenet of investing and saving.

In a world where financial products either generate interest or charge it, this presents numerous hurdles for Muslims who want to abide by Sharia law.

For example, while shares and dividends are acceptable, speculation is forbidden. What's more, Islamic bonds, called sukuk, are structured in such a way as to generate returns to investors without infringing Islamic law.

Wahed Invest offers exposure to these financial assets - plus gold. But as an online wealth manager, it does the hard work for you by putting a mix of these assets into six ready made model portfolios that scale up in risk from very conservative to very aggressive.

Halal investing often get bracketed under the socially responsible investing banner because sin stocks such as alcohol

All you have to do is chose the portfolio that aligns to your attitude to risk.

It's important to mention that Wahed Invest's classification as a robo-adviser is a misnomer because no advice is offered - you will have to decide which portfolio to choose for yourself. In fact the company steers clear from the robo-adviser classification.

A spokesman for the firm said: 'In the UK our investors self-select their own risk profile and we dont provide any guidance on the most appropriate strategy, as such, we refer to ourselves as an investment platform rather than as a robo-adviser.'

However, the 'robo' element comes in the form of the white-labelled technology, provided by financial services firm WealthKernel, Wahed Invest uses for suitability assessments.

You'd need at least 100 to invest through the platform. You can do so through a general investment account or the tax-efficient stocks and shares Isa, but not a self invested personal pension as yet.

Mohammed Ibrahim Morshed, head of UK at Wahed Invest, said: 'Our mission is to make Halal investing an accessible and affordable means of long-term saving for the millions of UK Muslims who currently feel excluded from mainstream financial services.

'For too long, the needs of the community have been overlooked, with many Muslims finding it impossible to build nest eggs that are in line with their faith.'

Wahed Invest already operates in the US after being launched in 2015 but has now been authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority to expand into Britain.

How it works

Just like most robo-advisers, Wahed Invest asks you a series of basic questions including why you want to invest and how long for to gauge whether or not investing is appropriate for your circumstances.

The algorithm would reject you from the application process if it considers that investing is not right for you.

You're then asked for the type of account you'd like to open, followed by how much you'd like to invest.

Unlike most robo-advisers, which have an in-house investment team that manages ready made portfolios, Wahed Invest outsources this responsibility to WealthKernel.

However, the online wealth manager says that all securities used in the portfolio selection process are continuously monitored by its ethical review panel to ensure they comply with Sharia requirements.

How much does it cost?

The robo-adviser levies a yearly admin charge of 0.99 per cent for portfolios on sums up to 249,999 and 0.49 per cent thereafter.

This is on top of an investment charge which averages 0.74 per cent. So, those who choose to invest less than 250,000 face a bill of 1.73 per cent on average.

This charge rises to 1.87 per cent if you opt for the most conservative portfolio.

You'll also have to factor in transaction costs which are charged at 0.05 per cent.

Cost comparison Robo-adviser Admin fees Investment fees Transaction fee Wahed Invest 0.99 per cent for portfolios on sums up to 249,999 and 0.49 per cent thereafter Averages 0.74% 0.05% Nutmeg Fully Managed Portfolio: 0.75% up to 100k, 0.35% beyond. Fixed Allocation Portfolio: 0.45% up to 100,000, 0.25% beyond. 0.19% and 0.33% for standard and ethical plans respectively 0.08% Wealthify 1 - 15,000: 0.7% 15,001 - 50,000: 0.6% 50,001 - 100,000: 0.5% 101,000+: 0.4% 0.21% on conventional portfolios and 0.54% for those with an ethical slant 0.03%

How does it compare?

Investing through Wahed Invest is far more expensive than investing through other robo-advisers in the UK market.

Nutmeg, the nation's first and arguably best known robo-adviser, levies 0.75 per cent up to 100,000 and 0.35 per cent thereafter for both its fully managed portfolios and socially responsible portfolios.

It also offers fixed allocation portfolios which cost 0.45 per cent up to 100,000 and 0.25 per cent thereafter.

This is in addition to the investment cost which averages 0.19 per cent and 0.33 per cent for standard and ethical plans respectively.

Another robo, Wealthify, operates a tiered charging structure ranging from 0.7 per cent on balances up to 14,999 to 0.4 per cent on balances above that amount.

Reason behind the cost Kareem Tabbaa, chief product officer at Wahed Invest, said: 'The Islamic Finance Industry is not as mature as the conventional finance industry, and therefore fund costs tend to be higher due to certain inefficiencies. 'We have already started taking the steps to redefine this space, starting in the US, by releasing our own Wahed S&P Halal Index funds which have zero management fees, thereby significantly decreasing the costs for our clients. We aim to share that same efficiency globally across our different jurisdictions.' 'For the avoidance of doubt, the total fee range is between 1.1 per cent and 1.87 per cent - the lower end of this range is competitive even when compared to conventional providers, but in Islamic Finance is almost unheard of.'

Investment costs average 0.21 per cent on conventional portfolios and 0.54 per cent for those with an ethical slant.

In fairness to Wahed Invest, the cost of Halal investments, is significantly more than the conventional shares and bonds.

But if you're not a Muslim but seek to invest in a socially responsible manner, it could pay to stay clear of costly Sharia-compliant investments.

Investing in an ethical proposition offered by Nutmeg and Wealthify is around a third cheaper than Wahed Invest Halal offerings on average (1.08 per cent and 1.24 per cent versus 1.87 per cent).

Verdict

Offering a platform that enables Muslims to invest in a way that is aligned to their beliefs without having to worry about important investment considerations such as portfolio diversification is commendable. The trouble is, it's simply too expensive.

Non-Muslims who, for one reason or another, might be considering to invest in a Sharia-compliant manner are probably better off investing in an ethical portfolio offered by another robo-adviser from a charges standpoint.

It's nigh impossible to give you an indication on how both types of portfolios stack up against each other as explored here.

Halal investing is an area that is not often explored in the financial industry and many bona fide investment advisers aren't well versed in the area.

In truth, many Muslims in the UK are also already invested in a way that isn't aligned to their beliefs without even knowing - through their workplace pension.

Most standard auto-enrolment workplace pensions aren't Sharia compliant - they'd probably be too expensive if they were.The perennial stock market Santa Rally appeared to start on cue today, as the FTSE 100 shot up this morning.

The leading London stock market was up more than 2 per cent but slipped back this afternoon to close up 1.2 per cent, or 82.1 points, at 7,062.4.

The relatively imminent arrival of Christmas had little to do with it, however, with bullish sentiment being driven by the appearance of peace between the US and China in their recent trade war.

President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping reached an agreement on trade between the world's two biggest economies.

Today's ongoing climb in the Footsie comes on the back of strong performance in other world markets overnight, with Chinese, Japanese and Australian stocks booking healthy rises.

Other European indices were also well into green territory, with Germany's DAX up 1.85 per cent and France's CAC 40 up 1 per cent.

Driving all this was US president Donald Trump's decision to hold fire on ratcheting up tariffs on $200bn of Chinese made goods coming into America for 90 days.

In turn, China offered an olive branch in the form of promises to up the amount of American produce it brings into the country to reduce the trade imbalance between them.

Elsewhere in the markets, oil is once again taking a big chunk of investors' attention on news that Gulf state Qatar has decided to exit the OPEC cartel of oil producers in January.

The decision appeared to be prompted by both a desire to have control over its own production levels and to score political points against its regional neighbour Saudi Arabia.

A barrel of Brent Crude is trading up 4 per cent to $61.84 while WTI barrels are going for 4.2 per cent more at $53.08.

The pound was flat this session at $1.2748.

'After the close of the G20 meeting Presidents Trump and Xi met to discuss the US/China tariffs and ongoing trade structure,' said Edward Park, deputy chief investment officer at Brooks Macdonald.

'Few expected a 'deal' to come out of this meeting, particularly given trade representatives from both sides were highlighting the early stage of talks, but the current ceasefire is undoubtedly positive for risk assets.'

'This ceasefire means that the step up in tariffs from 10 per cent to 25 per cent on $200bn on US imports from China pencilled in for the end of the year will be delayed at the very least and this helps alleviate market fears of a the trade war spiralling out of control,' he added.

'On the face of it, a pause for 90 days before further tariffs will be implemented unless an agreement can be reached isn't really that positive but it does represent the first backwards step from either the US or China since their tit-for-tat trade war began in the first quarter of the year,' noted David Cheetham, chief market analyst at XTB.

'Investors are clearly hopefully that this marks a turning point and have rushed to buy stocks since the news broke.'

'The White House announced that Trump has told Xi during talks in Buenos Aires that he would not boost the current tariffs on around $200b of Chinese imports to 25 per cent from the current level of 10 per cent as was previously planned and judging by the market reaction traders are betting that this is a significant first step in the de-escalation of these tensions,' Cheetham said.Consumer goods giant Unilever has agreed to buy Galxosmithklines Horlicks malt drinks business for 3.3billion (2.94billion), fighting off competition from Coca Cola and Swiss giant Nestle.

The deal, which also includes the acquisition of the Boost drinks brand and other nutrition businesses, will increase Unilever's presence in the rapidly growing Indian market, where Horlicks is a national favourite, with 90 of sales coming from there.

Horlicks and the other nutrition brands are held within an Indian-listed division - GSK Consumer Healthcare India - in which British drug maker Glaxo has a 72.5 per cent stake.

Sold: The deal will increase Unilvers presence in the rapidly growing Indian market

Unilever said it will pay in cash and shares of its subsidiary in India, Hindustan Unilever Limited, which will be merged with GSK Consumer Healthcare India.

Unilever said the move was in line with is strategy of increasing its presence in health food categories and high-growth emerging markets.

Meanwhile for Glaxo, the deal means it can invest more on its pharmaceutical business. Glaxo chief executive Emma Walmsley put Horlicks and other nutrition brands up for sale in March to fund its 9billion buyout of a joint venture with Novartis.

Walmsley said today: Horlicks has made a significant contribution to GSK and to the health of consumers across India for many decades and we believe Unilever is well placed to maximise its future potential.

Proceeds from this transaction will be used to support the group's strategic priorities, including investing in our pharmaceutical business.

Unilever shares rose 0.4 per cent to 4,261p, while Glaxo's shares were down 3.6 per cent at 1,563p.

Horlicks, made from wheat, milk and malted barley, it is sold in powdered form and given to children at the start of the day, to give them an energy boost.

It was invented in 1873 by Victorian businessmen William and James Horlick, and first aimed at infants but was soon given to servicemen during the first and second world wars and later to athletes during the 1948 London Olympics.

It was brought to India by Indian soldiers who fought alongside the British in the First World War.The first 'pensions dashboard' allowing people to see their retirement savings at a glance could be ready for launch next year, according to the Government.

It has promised to compel pension schemes to provide information to savers via dashboards if they prove reluctant and tried to allay fears about scams by saying consumer protection and safeguarding data will be 'top priorities'.

The dashboard project, long planned by the pension industry, received personal backing from Prime Minister Theresa May last week - following concerns that at one point the initiative was almost killed off by ex-Pensions Secretary Esther McVey.

The original prototype: The industry came up with a pensions dashboard to show workers all their pension pot details in once place (Source: ABI)

'It needs to be easier for people to be able to make informed choices on their pension pots,' said Mrs May. 'I welcome the industry's commitment to make this new technology a reality.'

Online tools showing savers accurate, easy to understand, secure information on how much they have in their pension pots have the 'potential to revolutionise how we plan for later life', said the Government.

It added that state pension information will be included on dashboards 'at some stage'.

Top pension firms who spearheaded the development of dashboards have always warned that legislation might be necessary to get all schemes to participate, and make the tools as comprehensive and useful as possible for savers.

Meanwhile, fears that scammers could hack or exploit the information on dashboards to steal people's retirement pots have also been raised, at a time when the Government and other authorities are battling the scourge of pension fraud.

Frank Field MP, chairman of the Work and Pensions committee, has reportedly written to the Government warning that dashboards could put people at risk of being scammed, and urged safeguards to protect the pension data put on dashboards.

Prime Minister Theresa May: Personal backing for dashboards allays concerns that at one point the initiative was almost killed off by the Government

The Government said the benefits of dashboards include putting people in control of when and how they check their data, and who has access to it.

It added that dashboards would help people find 'lost' pots, and today launched a consultation and a feasibility study in efforts to help the industry get dashboards off the ground.

Pensions Minister Guy Opperman said: 'Pensions dashboards are another major milestone in our radical pension reforms, harnessing innovative technology to benefit savers.

'Plain pensions information at the touch of a screen will ensure better-informed, more engaged savers and help many more people to plan effectively for retirement.

'Bringing pensions information into the digital age has the potential to revolutionise the way we all think about and plan for later life.'

What does the pensions industry say?

Former Pensions Minister Steve Webb, now policy director at Royal London, said: 'There is much that is positive about these plans, including the planned inclusion of state pension data, compulsion on most schemes to supply data, the potential to share data with an adviser and an industry-wide funding base for the project.

'But this project is clearly suffering from "Brexit blight" and the slow rollout is a real concern.

'This paper was itself eight months late and legislation is only promised "when parliamentary time becomes available".

'Most worryingly, state pension data will not be on the dashboard from day one but will simply be included via a link to another website.

'This will seriously delay the scope for pension planning tools which look at the whole of an individuals pension saving which is one of the major potential advantages of having a dashboard.'

Dashboards may be a hotbed for scams and fraud as they will have reams of pension wealth information all in one place

Jon Greer, head of retirement policy at Quilter, said: 'With the feasibility study we start the next chapter in the dashboard saga.

'It has been a long drawn-out process to reach this point, so there will be some exasperated relief that the study has finally been published and government have pinned their colours to the mast ahead of 2019.

'The Government have decided to allow both industry dashboards and a non-commercial dashboard hosted by the Single Financial Guidance Body.

'However, all the information will be gathered by the Pension Finder Service, to which schemes will be required to provide their data too.

'In theory, the approach sounds sensible and has its merits. Interestingly, the DWP have concluded the SFGB will convene and oversee the industry delivery group. This adds another element to their already over flowing plate, before they have even started.

'Any dashboard must have robust independent governance and regulation. Dashboards may be a hotbed for scams and fraud as they will have reams of pension wealth information all in one place and it is sensible that commercial organisations use of dashboard information will be a regulated activity to ensure high conduct of standards.'

Older schemes operating outdated technology will likely need a kick up the backside

Tom Selby, senior analyst at AJ Bell, said: 'For months the pension dashboard project looked set for the scrapheap as the Government fretted about the design of the new system.

'The fact Number 10 has thrown its weight behind the plans can only be a good thing, while confirmation state pension data will be made available is a step in the right direction.

'However, without legislation in place requiring all schemes to participate the early rollout will be limited in the extreme. While modern platforms and pension providers competing for new customers will want to get involved, older schemes operating outdated technology will likely need a kick up the backside.

'In the age of instant online banking, people rightly have high expectations of financial companies. In this world a half-baked dashboard risks being discredited from the start.'

He added: In an ideal world pensions would not just be presented to people as pots of money but also converted into retirement income estimates they can actually relate to.

'It would also be extremely useful if information on costs and charges was made visible in a clear and prominent way, putting clear blue water between those offering value for money and those charging savers through the nose. However, such developments might be a little ambitious for the initial phase of the dashboard.'

Gregg McClymont, former Shadow Pensions Minister and now policy director for B&CE, provider of The Peoples Pension, said: 'I applaud Government for recognising that such a complex and sensitive project as Pensions Dashboard project cant be handed over to the private sector to run.

'Putting the Single Financial Guidance Body in charge, as weve long-called for, is in the public interest and a welcome proposal.

'The emphasis on building a non-commercial dashboard initially, is crucial if the major benefit which [the] dashboard offers - a single register that allows savers to see all their pensions in one place - is to be realised.

'Thats the big prize, rather than a commercial tool for providers to market their services.

'For the dashboard to become that one-stop shop that savers need it to be, its vital that the state pension and public pensions are included as well as workplace and retail entitlements.'

Adrian Boulding Director of Policy at NOW: Pensions said: 'We are very pleased to see that the Government intends to make it compulsory for providers to participate.

Research NOW: Pensions conducted with pension savers revealed that over three quarters (77 per cent) are likely to use an online secure site that allows them to view all their pension pots, including the state pension, in one place.

'Nearly two thirds (64 per cent) said that being able to view all their pension savings in one place would help them to manage their retirement savings better.

'The inclusion of the State Pension is a must as, for most people, this will make up the lions share of their pension savings and its good to see the government commit to integrating the state pension into the dashboard.'Police in Brazil have confirmed that the body of the British rapper Kenny Mukendi, who has been missing since April 13, has been found.

According to forensic investigators, the body was discovered washed up on the shore on May 5, near Mirante do Rocandor, in the west zone of Rio de Janeiro.

It was close to where he was said to have taken his life, but the result of the DNA test was only released yesterday.

Identification of the body was delayed due to the advanced decomposition of the remains, police said.

According to forensic investigators, the body of Mukendi (pictured) was discovered washed up on the shore on May 5, near Mirante do Rocandor, in the west zone of Rio de Janeiro

It was close to where he was said to have taken his life, but the result of the DNA test was only released yesterday

He arrived in Brazil on 4 December with the hope of launching a music career in Rio and planned to start a new life, according to his 20-year-old Brazilian girlfriend, Renata Lima (pictured), who he had been living with for three months

His family has been informed and are now making arrangements to bring the 22-year-old home.

Initial identification of the corpse had been initially based on forensic evidence which confirmed the height, gender and ethnicity.

However, the musician's family insisted on DNA evidence to confirm it was him before accepting the result.

They have now stated that a further test will be run once the body is in the UK.

Rais Bona Bin Mapianda, 27, cousin of the missing Londoner, said: 'We are aware of the DNA result and understand what it implies. We are in contact with the British authorities and we will get these results verified and retested independently.'

He added the family, who live in Woolwich in London, is distraught at the news and wish to be left alone to grieve in private.

Mukendi leaving his home on the day he went missing. His social media accounts later deactivated

Mukendi's girlfriend sent these (left) anxious messages to him after he disappeared. Right: His belongings

Mukendi's father Ken, who believes his son is alive. He said the family are 'deeply disappointed' the police have called off their search

Confirmation that the corpse was that of the missing man was made using items submitted by the family, which included his razor, toothbrush, cap and underwear.

According to detectives at the missing persons department (DDPA), the rapper, who was also known as Kenny Vulcan, killed himself by throwing himself off a rock into the sea. He was said to have been depressed after leaving London.

He arrived in Brazil on 4 December with the hope of launching a music career in Rio and planned to start a new life, according to his 20-year-old Brazilian girlfriend, Renata Lima, who he had been living with for three months.

He disappeared on 13 April in the afternoon after taking an Uber from a recording studio to the tourist beauty spot. A credit card payment on his account registered the transaction.

His family has been informed and are now making arrangements to bring the 22-year-old home

Shortly after arriving at the location, he mysteriously deactivated all his social media accounts and apparently jumped of the rock into the sea.

Cops carried out extensive air and sea searches and his backpack containing his laptop, passport, bank cards, wallet, pen drives and headphones was found by surfers floating in off the coast and handed in.

The hunt was called off after two weeks, with DDPA chief Ellen Souto concluding the rapper had taken his 'own life by throwing himself into the sea while suffering from depression'.

His family, however, challenged the conclusion and continued to hold out hope he could still be alive, but 'for whatever reason [didn't] want to be found for now'.

At the time dad Kenny Mukendi said he did not believe his son would take his life and the family was 'deeply disappointed with the result of the investigation by the Brazilian police'.

Relatives continued to search for the missing man and put out posters offering a reward of 1,000 reais (200) for information about his whereabouts. They even heard from witnesses who claimed to have seen him.

However, Det Souto said: 'This idea of taking his own life had already crossed (Kenny's) mind in London, his girlfriend told us. His father knew this and feared that he would come alone to Brazil, where he could commit this unthinkable act.'

For confidential support, call the Samaritans on 116123 or visit a local Samaritans branch. See samaritans.org for details.A Brazilian mining executive was reportedly murdered in her apartment before her body was weighed down and dumped in a river.

Cecilia Haddad's body was found floating by shocked kayakers in Lane Cove River in Woolwich, Sydney on April 29.

The next day her ex-boyfriend Mario Santoro - who is now a suspect - flew home to Brazil where he remains as police fight to extradite him with an arrest warrant.

Mario Marcelo Santoro (pictured) is officially a suspect of interest the murder of Cecilia Haddad following a warrant for his arrest being secured by NSW Police

Mr Santoro reportedly flew to Rio de Janeiro to visit his sick father in the hours between Ms Haddad (pictured), 38, going missing and her body washing up on April 29

Detectives now suspect that Miss Haddad, 38, was killed in her unit (pictured) in Ryde, north-west Sydney

Detectives now suspect that Miss Haddad, 38, was killed in her unit in Ryde, north-west Sydney, The Daily Telegraph reported.

They are reportedly investigating several crime scenes including her unit, the building's garage and her red Fiat 500 car, which was found locked at West Ryde railway station.

A witness has apparently given a statement to police in which they claim they saw Santoro throw a set of keys into the Parramatta River from Gladesville Bridge. Police divers are yet to find them.

Santoro, 40, reportedly flew to Rio de Janeiro to see his sick father on the day Miss Haddad's body washed up.

Police found Ms Haddad's distinctive red Fiat 500 parked at a train station near her home

Police are understood to have submitted a request to the federal Attorney-General's Department to have Mr Santoro, 40, extradited.

The federal government is also understood to have been asked for assistance to contact Brazilian authorities to see if they can help with the investigation.

Santoro would now become a fugitive if he arrives in Australia.

Complications surrounding Brazil and Australia's extradition agreement could draw out the process.

Canberra is also understood to have been asked for assistance to contact Brazilian authorities to see if they can help with the investigation (crime scene where Ms Haddad's body was found)

No charges have been laid against Santoro.

He said last month from Rio De Janeiro that he had spoken with Australian police and told them he was 'at their disposal'.

'I have nothing to say about this, you will have to speak to my lawyer,' he said.

Santoro and Ms Haddad had previously been in a relationship, but separated in the weeks before her death.

His family this week told media Santoro would return to Sydney at some stage to answer questions from detectives.

Police are understood to have submitted a request to the federal Attorney-General's Department to have Mr Santoro, 40, extradited (Ms Haddad pictured)

Mr Santoro and Ms Haddad (pictured together) had previously been in a relationship, but separated in the weeks before her death

Speaking to Daily Mail Australia exactly a month on from her death, Ms Haddad's friend told of her desperation for police to arrest the person responsible - and how she hopes Santoro will follow through and speak to detectives.

'I know he has stated that he (Mr Santoro) was making himself available to police, but to my knowledge that hasn't happened,' the friend said.

'We do hope he will come to talk to police and help us understand what happened... because obviously he plays a big part in explaining some of her last movements.

'As someone who has known her for over 20 years... you would hope he would invest his time and effort into helping police with their investigation.

His family this week told media Mr Santoro would return to Sydney at some stage to answer questions from detectives (Mr Santoro and Ms Haddad pictured together)

Ebony (right), a close friend of murdered Brazilian woman Cecilia Haddad (left), called on Mr Santoro to return to Australia to face police questions

Dozens gathered by the water at Woolwich to share stories and throw flower petals into the river

Ms Haddad and Mr Santoro had first met in 1995, studying together at a university in Brazil.

Almost two decades later she moved to Australia with her husband Felipe Torres and took up a role with mining giant BHP. She lived in Western Australia for close to a decade before moving to Sydney in 2016.

Friends, family and homicide detectives gathered on the banks of the Lane Cove River in Woolwich last month, for a final memorial to Ms Haddad.

At the exact spot where her body was found they told stories and threw flower petals into the water. They also hope to one day have a plaque remembering her 'legendary smile and love'.

But just hours later her ex-boyfriend's aunt went on the attack, accusing Ms Haddad of being involved romantically with other men and never actually dating her nephew.Seven Iraqis including four children are receiving medical treatment after they were found in a field only a mile from a major ferry terminal on the River Humber.

Police were alerted after a passer-by spotted the small group around 9pm yesterday.

The three adults and four children are all believed to be from Iraq. An investigation is underway as to how they made their way to Hull, although they were found less than a mile from a ferry terminal with services to Rotterdam and Zeebrugge.

The three adults and four children were found in a field off Staithes Road, near Hull

Humberside Police confirmed the group received medical attention and have been handed over to Immigration Enforcement services who will assess their circumstances.

A police spokesperson said: 'Officers were called out last night around 9pm to a report of a concern for safety after a member of the public had seen a number of adults and children in a field in East Yorkshire.

'Following a search, the adults and the children were found off Staithes Road near to Preston. Its believed they are a family from Iraq.

'Officers ensured that the adults and children received medical checks and the appropriate support agencies were notified.

'They are now being looked after by our colleagues at Immigration Enforcement services who will be looking into their circumstances.'

British and French authorities have intercepted several boats carrying migrants across the Channel in recent weeks.

More than 80 people have been rescued over the past fortnight.

One group of 17 migrants were intercepted on board a stolen fishing boat which had been taken from Boulonge.Playboy founder Hugh Hefner embraced a hedonistic lifestyle of smoking jackets, multiple 'girlfriends' and lavish parties at his legendary mansion. Now, hundreds of fans have paid big bucks for a piece of the party.

Items from the late publisher's personal collection - from his typewriter to the first issue of his iconic magazine featuring Marilyn Monroe as the cover girl - went under the hammer in Los Angeles in a two-day sale that ended Saturday.

Lucky collectors will soon be able to lounge like the Hef: one of his bespoke red silk smoking jackets sold for $41,600, and his 'Viagra Ring' - a 14-karat gold and onyx ring concealing the little blue pill - was snapped up for $22,400.

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Late Playboy publisher Hugh Hefner's personal copy of the magazine's first issue featuring Marilyn Monroe sold for $31,250, according to Julien's Auctions

Late Playboy publisher Hugh Hefner's bespoke smoking jacket sold for $41,600 at auction

The auction will take place on November 30 and December 1 at Julien's Auctions with all proceeds going to the Hugh M. Hefner Foundation

Hefner's 'Viagra Ring' - a 14-karat gold and onyx ring concealing the little blue pill - was snapped up for $22,400

The typewriter, which Hefner used at university and to write copy for the 1953 debut issue of Playboy, sold for $162,500.

His personal copy of that issue went for $31,250, according to Julien's Auctions, which organized the sale.

Motorcycle jackets, a limo, a coin-operated jukebox, a pool table from the Playboy Mansion, even Hefner's Hollywood Walk of Fame star - the array of items for sale was wide.

Hefner's slippers? Up for grabs. Silk pajamas in a range of colors? Yep. Bed linens? That too.

Actor Jim Belushi paid $3,125 for a leather-bound copy of a script from an episode of classic US sketch comedy show 'Saturday Night Live' hosted by Hefner in 1977. Belushi's late brother John was part of the cast.

Hefner died of natural causes at his Beverly Hills mansion in September 2017, pictured in 2014 with wife Crystal Hefner

The vintage Underwood Standard Portable typewriter used in college by late Playboy publisher Hugh Hefner sold for $162,500

Hefner's famous sailor cap sold for $19,200 along with his Playboy logo cuff links and carved briar pipe also featuring a Playboy logo

His carved Briar pipe sold for $11,520 at auction with a custom playboy symbol

Hef's Hollywood Walk of Fame Star sold for $57,600 over the weekend

Hefner - who helped usher nudity into the American mainstream with his trailblazing mass-market magazine, shattering taboos along the way - died in September 2017 at the age of 91.

The magazine, recognizable worldwide for its voluptuous cover girls and its emblematic rabbit logo, became a sensation not long after hitting newsstands.

But beyond the glossy was the brand, a lucrative empire of nightclubs, television series and apparel.

All proceeds from the auction will go to Hefner's foundation, which supports civil rights advocacy groups, with a special focus on freedom of speech issues - a cause dear to the publisher's heart.

An online-only auction of more memorabilia - a smaller selection than was available at the two-day auction - will take place on December 17.

A lucky better is lounging like Hugh Hefner in his signature Playboy slippers

Hefner's 2016 passport was on sale in the massive haul that made thousands for his civil rights focused charity at the end of the month

Martin Nolan, executive director of Julien's Auctions, said: 'We are honored to present this extraordinary auction event that celebrates a pop culture icon, whose life and legacy truly embodied the American dream.'

Christie Hefner, his daughter, added: 'Whether it was building his company into one of the most recognizable global brands in history or standing up for social, sexual and civil rights causes, my father lived an extraordinary life as a publishing, social and cultural pioneer.'

Hefner's iconic Playboy Mansion in Los Angeles was sold in May 2016 to Daren Metropoulos, the co-owner of Hostess Brands, for $100 million.

Hefner continued to live in the mansion until his death at the age of 91 from natural causes.Advertisement

Tornadoes have ripped through several Midwest and southern states in a rare and unexpected occurrence for December.

Residents in central Illinois on Sunday assessed the damage after 22 rare December tornadoes, including one the day before that was a half-mile-wide, ripped roofs off homes in Taylorville, downed power lines and injured at least 20 people.

The severe weather in Illinois was part of a line of thunderstorms that raked areas of the central US late Friday and into Saturday, killing one person in Missouri's tornado with speeds up to 100mph.

The National Weather Service confirmed tornadoes in Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma and one in Georgia that injured four people at Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base Sunday afternoon, while a tornado threat loomed in Northwest Florida.

At least three tornadoes were confirmed in northwest and southwest Arkansas, which largely caused property and structural damage. No injuries or fatalities were reported.

Peak months for tornadoes in much of the Midwest are April and June, according to the weather service.

Rodney Henry scurries down the trunk of a large tree that fell onto the home of Chris and Dennis Metsker Sunday in Taylorville, Illinois

Shocking video captured Saturday's tornado spotted in Beardstown, Illinois

Joyce Morrissey sorts through the debris of her nephew Stephen Tirpak's house in Taylorville, Illinois. The National Weather Service says multiple tornadoes touched down in central Illinois, damaging dozens of structures and injuring multiple people

A car that had been inside a building, was turned on its side, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, at Country Classic Cars near Staunton, Illinois

Steven Tirpak uses a chainsaw to remove tree branches that fell onto his two-story home in Taylorville after several tornadoes ripped through the state

At least 20 tornadoes touchdown and were reported throughout the state Saturday, injuring dozens

The first tornado touched down in Van Buren, Arkansas, about 130miles northwest of Little Rock. The tornado was rated an EF2, which indicates wind speeds as high as 135 mph.

About 10 minutes later, a second weaker tornado was confirmed less than 10miles away near the town of Rudy, Arkansas and early Saturday morning a third tornado with estimated peak winds of 107 mph traveled about 8.5miles through Spring Hill in southwest Arkansas, about 110miles from Little Rock. Its path was intermittent and mostly caused damage to trees and to some structures.

But at least 12 tornadoes were reported in Illinois on Saturday, including the Taylorville tornado, which has been confirmed.

If the majority are confirmed, that would be the most tornadoes in Illinois in a December storm since December 18-19, 1957, when there were 21.

The weather service sent crews Sunday to survey the hardest-hit areas in Illinois, which included Taylorville, 25 miles southeast of Springfield.

Photographs and video from Taylorville showed several houses flattened, with residents wading into debris to salvage what they could.

Some homes remained standing but with gaping holes in the roofs or with no roofs at all.

The storms spread as far as Florida and throughout Georgia, hitting a naval base

The ominous tornado is seen looming in the distance in Butler, Illinois Saturday

Tammy Bowers and her son David gather a few items from the interior of their tornado-damaged home in Taylorville, Illinois

Peak months for tornadoes in much of the Midwest are April and June, making these storms very rare

Marie Sheedy hauls salvageable items from the destroyed remains of her son Don's shop, an old train shed, as residents dig out and clean up tornado debris in Taylorville Sunday

The tornado was on the ground for around 10 miles before it thundered through Taylorville, and the weather service was able to warn residents of its arrival 41 minutes before it actually struck, Chris Miller, a meteorologist at the service's Lincoln office, said in a phone interview Sunday.

That advanced warning gave people critical time to take cover and may have saved lives.

Assistant Fire Chief Andy Goodall, speaking to reporters Saturday night shortly after the storm pounded the city of 11,000, said at least 100 homes had major damage, including his own, Springfield's State Journal-Register reported.

A Taylorville Memorial Hospital spokesman said 21 people, from age 9 to 97, arrived for treatment Saturday.

Most were released within hours. Miller said three people remained hospitalized as of Sunday afternoon.

Miller said preliminary estimates are that the Taylorville tornado may have been an EF2, which indicates wind speeds as high as 135 mph. It could take several more days to know for sure.

Russ Noel, owner of Country Classic Cars, looks at one of the damaged cars after a tornado ripped through the business, destroying two buildings and damaging more than 100 carsAn Australian worker needs to earn more than $82,435 a year before tax to be considered an above-average earner.

If you're earning $1,585 or more a week, before tax, consider yourself in the upper end of full-time salary earners but this doesn't necessarily mean you can afford a house.

Those working in the mining industry are more likely to be well remunerated, with weekly salaries of $2,611 or $135,782 a year.

Those in between are more likely to be wearing a suit to work but if you are flipping burgers or operating a cash register, chances are you are at the bottom.

An Australian worker needs to earn more than $82,435 a year before tax to be considered an above-average earner (stock image of a lower-paid cafe worker)

The retail sector included some of Australia's worst wages with salaries of just $741 a week or $38,532 a year.

When it came to being paid the least, unskilled accommodation and food services workers earned just $534 a week or $27,768 a year.

Men working full-time made an average of $1,677 a week or $87,209 a year compared with women, who earn an average of $1,434 a week or $74,562 a year, Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows.

Outside the mining industry, public servants had Australia's highest weekly salary of $1,743 or $90,636 a year before tax.

Miners are likely to have salaries among the highest in Australia, which explains why Western Australia is the state with the second highest average wage

Earnings league table 1. Australian Capital Territory, $1, 812 a week or $94,224 a year 2. Western Australia, $1,740.30 a week or $90,495.60 a year 3. Northern Territory, $1,668.50 a week or $86,762 a year 4. New South Wales, $1,606.10 a week or $83,517.20 a year 5. Victoria, $1,550.20 a week or $80,610.40 a year 6. Queensland, $1,544.30 a week or $80,303.60 a year 7. South Australia, $1,449.40 a week or $75,368.80 a year 8. Tasmania, $1,379.20 a week or $71,718.40 a year * Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics average weekly ordinary time earnings, seasonally adjusted data for May in the persons category Advertisement

For that reason, the Australian Capital Territory, which takes in Canberra, had the highest salaries of $94,224 a year, ahead of mining rich Western Australia's $90,496 a year.

Meanwhile people in Tasmania and South Australia made comparably less, with those in Australia's island state averaging $1,379 a week.

An Australian in the technical or professional services sector, earning $1,585 a week, would be typical.

Someone on an average salary in Australia would barely be able to afford a $500,000 apartment in Sydney, or a median-price house in Brisbane and would be spending 40 per cent of their take-home pay on mortgage repayments.

Unless they are paying off a mortgage with their spouse or de facto, they would be unable to afford a median price Sydney house, selling for $935,713.

Despite house prices in Australia's biggest city suffering the big annual slump in three decades, a borrower needs to be earning at close to $3,000 a week to comfortably pay off a mortgage in Australia's most expensive real estate market.The frantic triple zero calls to rescue children trapped in hot cars are set to be released in a bid to warn parents of the dangers of leaving children alone as summer temperatures are predicted to swelter.

'My little boy is locked in my car and he has my keys,' are the panicked words from one triple zero call made by one Sydney mother as she struggled to free her one-year-old son Cash.

'He's very distressed and all the windows are up and he's crying. I can't get in.'

At least three children every week are trapped in hot cars throughout NSW with temperatures inside rising to a scorching 78C.

Paramedics are forced to break into three cars a week across NSW alone to rescue children, some as young as just a few days old.

The frantic triple zero calls to rescue children trapped in hot cars are set to be released, including that of Sydney mum Nicole Kay-Clough (left) who accidentally locked her one-year-old son Cash in her car in August this year (stock image right)

At least three children every week are trapped in hot cars throughout NSW with temperatures inside rising to a scorching 78C (file image)

Every single one of these rescues over the past year will be made public as part of a new campaign by NSW Ambulance to warn parents to be extra vigilant during summer's hotter days.

Over the past 12 months, 151 children were rescued from locked cars, with some stuck inside for as long as 40 minutes and breathing shallowly by the time of rescue.

One mother who knows the terror of leaving her child locked in the car first hand, has released her emergency call to warn others.

Nicole Kay-Clough from Sydney's Northern Beaches accidentally locked her one-year-old son Cash in her car in August this year after she gave him her keys.

A toddler in south China's Hunan province was trapped in a hot car after her father refused to let anyone break the windows (pictured)

HOW HOT CARS KILL YOUNG CHILDREN Fast-rising temperatures in cars can quickly overwhelm very young children, who cannot regulate their body heat properly. High internal temperatures lead to heatstroke, which overwhelms the brain's temperature control. That leads to dizziness, confusion, disorientation, agitation, seizures, sluggishness, unconsciousness and eventually death. Cracking a window, or even leaving one open, is not enough - the heat in the car will not dissipate properly, and the greenhouse effect continues. Reaching a temperature as high as 78C can result in irreversible organ damage or even death. Advertisement

'He started to cry and get really distressed, seeing my little boy crying and not being able to get to him was hard,' Ms Kay-Clough told the Daily Telegraph.

'I felt really stupid, it happens so quickly.'

The mother-of-one now wears her keys in a lanyard around her neck to ensure the accident never happens again.

Leaving children alone in cars can be deadly, NSW Ambulance chief inspector Brian Parcell stressed.

'The consequences of inadvertently locking your child in the car or leaving your child in the car can be catastrophic and no parent would ever want a situation where their child is dragged unconscious from the vehicle,' Inspector Parcell said.

A three-year-old girl tragically died after she was left sleeping in the car at her family home in the Western Sydney suburb of Glenmore on Christmas Eve of 2016.

A three-year-old girl tragically died after she was left sleeping in the car at her family home (pictured) in the Western Sydney suburb of Glenmore on Christmas Eve of 2016

Relatives and friends arrived at the young girl's Glenmore Park home on Wednesday after the child was pronounced dead in Nepean Hospital after she was left unattended in a car

'It's a job I'll remember to the day I die,' Inspector Parcell said.

'I remember vividly the wail and scream of the parents as we desperately tried to save the child.'

Another father from Albury, who didn't want to be identified, also accidentally locked his two-year-old son in his car on a 37 degree day in January this year.

'I don't know how he's done it ... next thing you know he's locked in,' the father can be heard telling the triple zero operator.

'We're trying to encourage him to open the door handles ... he's sweating a lot ... and starting to look distressed.'

'You do need to be vigilant. Kids are kids and they will grab doors and press buttons,' he said.

With the Bureau of Meteorology predicting NSW will have a hotter than average summer this year, parents are being warned to be extra cautious.More than 100 teen brawlers packed two popular beaches over the weekend, sparking new calls for a summer-long booze ban.

Three people were injured and 10 young people were arrested on Saturday evening after brawls erupted at two beaches in Victoria.

About 20 African youths gathered on St Kilda foreshore, Melbourne, before a fight broke out shortly after 10.30pm.

Three men were allegedly ambushed by the riotous group at St Kilda before one was knocked unconscious and robbed.

Two of the victims, aged 24 and 26, were taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

A 20-year-old from Vermont South declined treatment for the minor injuries he sustained during the melee.

Dau Mabior, 19, was arrested for his alleged involvement in the brawl and is is facing charges of assault, making threats to kill, possession of cannabis and breaching bail.

He was remanded and will reappear in court on Tuesday.

Acting Superintendent for Southern Metro police Mark Langhorn spoke to reporters on Sunday.

'The three males were assaulted by a group of 10 to 20 youths  they are described as African-Australian youths,' he said.

'The main victim was assaulted, he was kicked while he was on the ground, he was unconscious while he was on the ground, his phone and his wallet were stolen.

'His friend intervened and he received cuts and bruises to his eye, a third friend received a swollen lip from the group. Two of the males went to hospital. They were released this morning from the Alfred (Hospital).'

Dau Mabior, 19, was arrested for his alleged involvement in the brawl and is is facing charges of assault, making threats to kill, possession of cannabis and breaching bail

A brawl also erupted more than an hour's drive away in Rye, at the Mornington Peninsula, on Saturday night.

Nine youths were arrested for riotous behaviour, possession of drugs and alcohol and being drunk in a public place.

Officers used capsicum spray to control the youths at 11pm after they allegedly attacked police by throwing bottles.

'Those participating in schoolies are reminded to be mindful and respectful of the community and any anti-social and drunken behaviour will not be tolerated,' Victoria Police said in a statement.

There are now calls to ban alcohol consumption on St Kilda foreshore, ahead of a City of Port Phillip council meeting on Wednesday evening.

Mayor Dick Gross said there were mixed messages about whether alcohol had played a role in Saturday's altercation.

'One acting superintendent said there wasn't any link between alcohol and the violence on Saturday night but there seems to be some indications from other parts of police that there was,' Mayor Gross told 3AW.

Mayor Gross explained there is a partial alcohol ban in public places - between 8pm and midday - and there was a 24-hour ban over Christmas last year.

'On Wednesday we're gathering to have a complete review on what's happening on the foreshore and unfortunately I can't say anything until then because as the mayor I might have to represent one side or the other and I can't preempt the decision,' he said.

A gang of approximately 20 African youths allegedly bashed and robbed three men on Saturday night at St Kilda foreshore (pictured), leaving one victim unconscious

'There's always a number of different arguments on what people want to do by the sunset on St Kilda Beach about economic vibrancy and about safety and all these things are thrown up in the air.'

Acting Supt Langhorn told reporters alcohol was not a contributing factor in the St Kilda brawl.

'Throughout the night there was large groups of people down at the beach being warm weather,' he said.

'It was just very quickly that the group of African Australians came together.

'So throughout the night no one would have been drinking or anything like that, everyone was well behaved.

'It was just when the large group came together the trouble started.'

At a press conference on Sunday, Acting Superintendent for Southern Metro police Mark Langhorn said alcohol was not a contributing factor in the St Kilda brawl (pictured: St Kilda foreshore)

Republica St Kilda Beach, a premises serving food and alcohol, said they would be able to comment after the council meeting.

'We aren't able to make comment prior to Council meeting on Wednesday at 6pm as we don't wish to negatively influence the Councillors,' Republica said.

Mayor Gross said the council was disappointed with Saturday's events.

'While we welcome visitors, violence is unacceptable,' he said in a statement given to Daily Mail Australia.

'There are strongly held, diverse views in our community about alcohol bans which have been reflected in community consultation on this issue.

'On December 5, Council will be discussing a proposed 24 hour annual ban for the St Kilda foreshore from 1 November to 31 March.

'This follows the anti-social and criminal behaviour by crowds at the foreshore in November and a consequent petition by residents and traders calling for an extended ban.'A wealthy couple have made 1400 per cent profit after turning around a $NZD3.9million ($AUD3.7million) block of farmland into $NZD62.8million ($AUD58.9million).

Property investor Simon Herbert and wife Paula are well known on the Auckland property market having masterminded two record house sales in the city this year worth $NZD27.5million ($AUD25.8million) and $NZD25.5million ($AUD23.9million).

But Mr Herbert has now taken his investment accomplishments to new heights, though, after purchasing a farm north of New Zealand's biggest city in 2014.

Wealthy couple Simon Herbert and wife Paula (right, left) have made 1400 per cent profit after turning around a $NZD3.9million ($AUD3.7million) block of farmland into $NZD62.8million ($AUD58.9million)

The investor told the NZ Herald he bought the 85-hectare site outside the town of Orewa through his firm Orewa West Investments Ltd.

Last year, the property guru was given permission to subdivide the property into 575 lots - a simple administrative change that boosted the entire site's value to $NZD62.8million ($AUD58.9million).

Mr Herbert said: 'We have owned (the farm) since then and I believe we paid around $NZD3.9million ($AUD3.7million) for it. It was all farmland.'

Subdividing into that number of lots is not a particularly expensive process comparatively, either, another Auckland property developer told Daily Mail Australia.

The developer said the process would unlikely cost anything less than $NZD100,000 ($AUD93,700) , but even for a plot of that size, would not reach anything more than $NZD250,000 ($AUD234,383).

Orewa West received government approval to make the sale to AVJ Hobsonville in September - which was required as the latter company is 53% owned by a Singaporean entity.

The investor told the NZ Herald he bought the 85-hectare site outside the town of Orewa in 2014 through his firm Orewa West Investments Ltd - before selling it on this year

Mr Herbert (centre) said: 'We have owned (the farm) since 2014 and I believe we paid around $3.9million ($AUD3.7million) for it. It was all farmland'

The Herbert couple are already well known on the Auckland property market having masterminded two record house sales in the city this year worth $27.5million ($AUD25.8million) and $25.5million ($AUD23.9million) (one of the sold properties at 542 Remuera Rd pictured)

The New Zealand government approved the request on the basis the development would create jobs and improve services in the area.

Case documentation showed the buyer planned to use all of the subdivided lots to build 575 homes, as well as develop a mixed-use retail centre.

The purchasing company had also demonstrated a track record of building developments in Auckland, the approval document said.A woman who was killed on a train after a suspected blow to the head while leaning out of the window was a 28-year-old from Penarth in Wales, it has emerged.

The passenger died after suffering head wounds on a train between Bath and Keynsham on Saturday night as she returned from Bath's Christmas markets.

Emergency services tried to save the woman after her injury on a Bristol Temple Meads-bound train but she died at the scene.

Police said the woman had now been identified and that her family had been informed, saying the death was not suspicious.

The incident occurred on a train heading to Bristol at around 10pm on Saturday night

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has been informed.

A British Transport Police spokesperson said: 'We were called at around 10.10pm following a report a woman had received serious head injuries while travelling on a train between Bath and Keynsham.

'Officers from BTP attended along with colleagues from Avon and Somerset Police and South Western Ambulance Service but despite their best efforts, the woman died at the scene.

'Officers were called at 10.10pm on Saturday following a report a woman had received serious head injuries while travelling on a train between Bath and Keynsham.

'Colleagues from South Western Ambulance Service also attended, however, despite their best efforts, a 28-year-old woman from Penarth sadly died at the scene. Her family has been informed.

'Our investigation remains at an early stage, but initial enquiries suggest the woman may have been leaning out of a window when she suffered a blow to the head.

'We are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the incident, which has been reported to the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB).

'The death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.'A gangland lawyer fed up with police's inability to catch crooks turned rogue and went about destroying criminal organisations from the inside.

The decision by the lawyer, who can only be referred to as Informer 3838, saw some of Victoria's biggest villains wind up in jail.

It could also now see dozens of bikies and mobsters released from prison.

The lawyer was registered as a police informer on 16 September 2005, and remained registered until at least 12 January 2009 (pictured: Barbaro Pasquale)

The bombshell revelations can finally be revealed after years of court-imposed gag orders protecting the lawyer were lifted.

The lawyer, who acted for gangsters including dead crime boss Carl Williams and Tony Mokbel, began working for police in mid-2003 when she met approximately six times with a Detective Sergeant of the Purana Taskforce, which was investigating Melbourne gangland crime.

The bombshell revelations can finally be revealed after years of court-imposed gag orders protecting the lawyer were lifted (pictured: left to right John Higgs, Rob Karam and Saviero Zirilli)

The lawyer, who acted for gangsters including dead crime boss Carl Williams and Tony Mokbel, began working for police in mid-2003 (pictured: Frank Madafferi)

It is understood hundreds of notifications are being sent by the Director of Public Prosecutions to criminals who were represented by or had dealings with the lawyer.

The revelations could have huge implications over the convictions of everyone from Mokbel to Mafia head Pat Barbaro.

The lawyer is understood to have been asked to provide a 'Top 10' of crooks she helped to bring down.

It is understood hundreds of notifications are being sent to criminals who were represented by or had dealings with the high-profile gangland lawyer (pictured: John Higgs)

It is understood hundreds of notifications are being sent to criminals who were represented by or had dealings with the high-profile gangland lawyer (pictured: Pasquale Barbaro under police surveillance with drug syndicate henchman, Jan Visser)

Who the lawyer gave information about Karam, Higgs, Pasquale Barbaro and 33 co-accused for the largest ever seizure of ecstasy in the world Tony, Horty and Milad Mokbel Self-proclaimed vampire Shane Chartres-Abbott Mick Gatto and the Carlton crew Advertisement

The list contains a swag of colourful Melbourne identities, including major drug traffickers Rob Karam and John Higgs and Tony Mokbel and his brother Milad.

Barbaro was pinged in the infamous $440 million Tomato Tins drug sting in 2007 which saw 32 Mafia figures jailed.

It is a case the gangland lawyer was keen for the gangsters to remain in the dark about her role in their convictions.

The tomato tins used by the Mafia to import drugs into Australia

Boxes of tomato tins used by the Mafia to bring in drugs

A gangland lawyer who went undercover for police to snitch on her own clients could see dozens of bikies and mobsters released from prison

The Andrews Government is understood to be considering debating whether a Royal Commission should be called.

Victoria Police are believed to have arrested hundreds of people based on the information provided by the informer, with millions of dollars more taken in property and asset seizures.

The lawyer allegedly turned on her clients after becoming disillusioned with Victoria Police's inability to lock-up crooks.Police in Greensboro, North Carolina released body cam footage showing officers restraining a black man who appeared out of control while under the influence of alcohol, cocaine, and ecstasy before gradually losing consciousness and eventually dying.

The video was released on Friday.

It shows officers putting Marcus Deon Smith, 38, in a patrol car just after midnight on Sept. 8 after finding him suicidal, disoriented and running through traffic, the News & Record of Greensboro reported.

Emergency personnel arrived about five minutes after officers reached the scene, police said.

Marcus Deon Smith, 38, is seen above being restrained by Greensboro, North Carolina police officers at around 12:40am on September 8

The body cam footage was released showing how officers restrained Smith, who is seen on the ground as he is being handcuffed

The autopsy report said Smith, a father of three, became agitated after police placed him in a patrol car.

They opened the door and Smith got out, the report said.

Multiple officers then placed him prone on the ground. His hands were then cuffed behind his back, and a strap was placed on his ankles to secure them to the handcuffs behind his back, the report said.

No chokeholds or conducted electrical weapons were applied. During this process, the decedent was grunting loudly, then more quietly.

After restraints were applied, officers checked on him and found that he was unresponsive (not breathing, but with a pulse), the report said.

The footage shows Smith running around aimlessly in and out of traffic. An officer is seen opening the back door to a police car. Smith is seen getting in without any handcuffs

When Smith was inside, he started to bang on the window of the car - first with his hands. He then started to kick the window

Smith is seen far left in the back seat of the police car while an officer checks in on him

Smith is seen above using his feet to kick the police car window

So police opened the door and let him out of the car. Police say Smith ran into the arms of an officer and then collapsed on to the street

Police said that paramedics who were called to the scene asked officers to place restraints on him so that they could transport him to a hospital for treatment

But paramedics and officers noticed that Smith grew more quieter. One of the emergency personnel on site is seen above checking his pulse

He was taken to a hospital and died an hour later.

The report concluded that Smith died of cardiopulmonary arrest caused by a variety of factors including prone restraint as well as a combination of drugs, alcohol and cardiovascular disease.

The city of Greensboro said it's filing a petition with Guilford County Superior Court to request the release of body-worn camera footage.

Due to the multitude of factors that led to tragic circumstances for Mr. Smith ... the City of Greensboro believes there is a compelling public interest to share the video, the city said in a written statement.

The city of Greensboro said previously that officers followed all procedures in the events before Smith's death and that the four officers who had been placed on administrative duty are back on their regular patrol duties after the Guilford County District Attorney's Office concluded they did not violate any policies.

The races of the officers weren't immediately known, but the body cam footage indicates that most of them were white.

Smith was pronounced dead 40 minutes after the body cam footage was filmed.

The initial incident took place on Church Street in Greensboro, which was very close to where the Greensboro Folk Festival was happening.

The event was attended by large crowds, which necessitate a beefed up police presence.

Smith was first seen by officers running in and out of traffic on Church Street.

The body cam footage shows Smith speaking loudly and incoherently while apparently in a great deal of distress.

Officers then removed restraints from Smith and paramedics loaded him into a stretcher

Police said that at this point a pulse and a breath was found as Smith was being loaded into the ambulance

The image above shows Smith being loaded onto the ambulance by paramedics. He was pronounced dead about 40 minutes later

The first officer to notice Smith called for backup after it became apparent that he would not be able to get him off the street on his own.

A number of other police units arrived and cordoned off a part of the road while Smith is seen running around and unable to control himself.

Smith wanders aimlessly through the street as officers stand by. After about seven minutes, one of the officers opens the back door to a police cruiser.

Smith is seen getting into the car.

The image above shows an undated photo of Marcus Smith

While detaining Smith (left), police used a RIPP Hobble, a device that is used to restrain a suspect's legs and ankles so as to prevent them from kicking

Smith, a father of three, was said by officers who saw him that night to have been suicidal, but his family denies this

Moments later, paramedics arrive. They and the officers then begin to talk about the best way to get Smith to a hospital.

But while in the back of the police cruiser, Smith becomes extremely agitated.

He hits the window a number of times with his hands and then starts kicking the window.

Officers then decide to let Smith out of the police car. When the door is opened, Smith runs into the arms of an officer and then collapses onto the street.

The officers and the paramedics then decide that Smith needed to be rushed to the hospital. Police have said that the paramedics asked officers to restrain him.

In the body cam footage, officers can be heard trying to calm Smith down.

While they talk to Smith, they restrain him using a RIPP Hobble, which is used to tie a suspect's feet and legs together so as to prevent them from kicking anything or anyone in their vicinity.

Shortly after the police restrained Smith with the RIPP Hobble, officers rolled Smith onto his side.

They then began to notice he grew quieter, so they checked his pulse.

When it became apparent that Smith's health was in jeopardy, the officers removed the restraint devices and put him in a stretcher.

Mary Smith, Smith's mother, said: 'Being a mother this is pain I have to endure for the rest of your life'

'He was tied up like an animal,' said Kim Suber, Smiths sister. 'Have you ever seen a bull riding show where the bull is tied up by his hands and feet? Imaging your loved one taking his last breath with his hands and feet tied behind his back and not under arrest'

Paramedics told officers that they did find a pulse and a breath as they loaded him onto the stretcher and into the back of an ambulance.

Smith was then transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead about 40 minutes later.

On November 14th, Smith's family held a news conference during which they accused police of 'hogtying' him, according to WGHP-TV.

'He was tied up like an animal,' said Kim Suber, Smiths sister.

'Have you ever seen a bull riding show where the bull is tied up by his hands and feet?

'Imagine your loved one taking his last breath with his hands and feet tied behind his back and not under arrest.'

Mary Smith, Smith's mother, said: 'Being a mother this is pain I have to endure for the rest of your life.'

The family demanded that body cam footage be made public. They denied police claims that Smith was suicidal.

'I knew Marcus was never suicidal. He was my friend, my child,' Mary Smith said.

'No human should be treated this way,' Suber said.

Police said that in light of the incident, they are now reviewing procedures involving use of the RIPP Hobble.A little girl unknowingly picked up a deadly blue-ringed octopus while collecting shells on a Western Australia beach at the weekend.

The young girl had been building sandcastles and collecting shells at Coogee Beach, south of Perth, on Saturday morning.

But when the little girl took them home for cleaning, her aunty made a terrifying discovery.

A little girl unknowingly picked up a deadly blue-ringed octopus while collecting shells on a Western Australia beach at the weekend

Despite their small size, the blue-ringed octopus is one of the worlds most venomous marine creatures and carry enough venom to kill twenty-six adults within minutes.

They are known to be docile unless provoked or handled, but their bites will render victims severely or totally paralysed and unable to signal for help.

Their bites are tiny and often painless, and children are particularly at risk due to their small body size.

Coogee Beach WA Surf Life Saving Club posted the pictures online, urging people to be wary.

The young girl had been building sandcastles and collecting shells at Coogee Beach (pictured), south of Perth, on Saturday morning

They are known to be docile critters unless provoked or handled, but their bites will render victims severely or totally paralysed and unable to signal for help

A good reminder this morning about keeping watch of what your little people are collecting, they wrote.

They look beautifulbut a bite can be deadly.

Many in the comments have said they are not surprised by the discovery, and that blue-ringed octopi are everywhere if you know where to look.

On the west side of Penguin Island I have seen dozens of themnot surprised at all.

In the 1950-60s, two people in Australia died from blue-ringed octopus bites.

Despite their miniature size, blue-ringed octopuses are one of the worlds most venomous marine creatures and carry enough venom to kill twenty-six adults within minutesAndrew Allan Bush, 50, of College Station, Texas (pictured), was arrested after allegedly trying to run over college student Zane Wallace after rear-ending Wallace's truck

A Texas man has been caught on camera as he managed to avoid being the victim of a hit-and-run by jumping on the hood of a car and holding on as its intoxicated driver drove away.

Andrew Allan Bush, 50, of College Station, Texas, has been arrested and charged with a DWI, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and failure to leave information, according to police in Bryan, Texas, where the incident occurred.

The man on the hood of the car was later identified as Zane Wallace, a Texas A&M student, according to KBTX.

Bystander Steve Christian, of College Station, was stopped at an intersection on November 29 at about 4.30pm in Bryan, when he saw and recorded Bush's white Dodge Charger as it sped past in the opposite direction, with Wallace clearly clinging to the car's dented hood.

Christian posted the dramatic clip on Facebook and wrote that he had shared the six-second video to the local police department.

A bystander captured dramatic footage of Wallace clinging to the hood of Bush's car

Wallace said he jumped onto the hood of the car to avoid being run over by Bush. Bush then drove at speeds of up to 50mph for more than half a mile before Wallace was able to jump off

The incident began after Bush rear-ended Wallace's truck (shown), causing minor damage

In the video  which has been viewed 95,000 times already  Wallace, wearing jeans and a maroon t-shirt, can be seen holding on for dear life as the white Charger blows through the intersection. At one point, Wallace looks over his shoulder to see where the car is going.

Wallace told KBTX that he was driving his truck when the Charger rear-ended him while they were stopped on a bridge.

After the impact, Wallace said that he exited his truck to check on the driver, later revealed to be Bush, at which point Bush accelerated his car and drove towards him.

Wallace then apparently jumped onto the hood of Bush's car to avoid being run over as Bush fled the accident scene.

'I remember banging on the window of the car while I'm holding on screaming let me off let me off and he just shakes his head no,' Wallace told KBTX, also noting that he 'very easily could have been killed' and that Bush 'just didn't care.'

Wallace appeared to have been uninjured, save for aches and pains, after his wild ride

Bystander Steve Christian was stuck at an intersection when he saw Bush's car heading in the opposite direction, with Wallace on the hood. He recorded the car as it drove past and shared the footage with police

Bush drove at speeds of up to 50mph for more than half a mile with Wallace on his hood.

Authorities said that during the drive, Bush 'actively tried to get the victim off of his vehicle,' before pulling into a gas station.

Wallace told the news station that more than six drivers who witnessed the incident had worked together to slow down Bush, ultimately giving him a chance to jump off the hood of Bush's car without injury.

Bush then drove out of the gas station and continued down the street until other drivers, who had witnessed the incident, were able to box him in at a nearby intersection, preventing him from leaving the scene before police arrived.

Police told KBTX that Bush admitted to having imbibed a Four Loko drink before rear-ending Wallace and said that he had been scared and uncertain about what to do after the collision.

Wallace was taken to the hospital after the incident, appearing to be unharmed except for aches and pains from hanging on to the hood of the car in what he called 'the best workout ever.' Wallace's girlfriend, who was in the truck with him during the collision, was also given medical attention.

Wallace said of Bush that he could 'wish bad things on him all day until the cows come home. But at the end of the day I'm still breathing and I just want him to get better and get the help he needs.'

Bush is in Brazos County Jail with bonds totaling $18,000 for the three charges he faces.Venomous snakes have been forced out into the open as temperatures soar and bushfires rage in Queensland.

Residents were urged to be on the lookout for snakes following the recent spate of fires.

Across the state, there had been an increase in the number of snake bite victims and reptile sightings in public places.

Queensland residents are being urged to be on the lookout for serpents following the recent spate of fires

Paramedics were called to snake bite victims at Mount Low, Moggill, Stratford, Cooktown, Little Mountain, Bundaberg East, Mossman Gorge, Wynumm West, West Mackay, Shailer Park and Dalby last week.

The Queensland Ambulance Service tweeted: 'With the rise in temps, we see more snake activity. If you see a snake leave it alone & walk away. They will usually only bite if provoked.'

A spokesman told Daily Mail Australia the most recent monthly figures, for October 2018, showed there had been 82 bites statewide.

The Queensland Ambulance Service tweeted: 'With the rise in temps, we see more snake activity. If you see a snake leave it alone & walk away. They will usually only bite if provoked.'

Snakes slither inside homes when people leave doors, windows and garages open, according to experts.

They were not the only hazardous animals affecting Queensland during the hot spell.

Paramedics had been responding to a number of jellyfish stings, and the public were warned against touching any bats which were dropping dead in large numbers, as they can carry serious diseases.

Firefighters were battling blazes exacerbated by temperatures reaching 40C and wild winds.

Snakes slither inside homes when people leave doors, windows and garages open all day, according to snake catchers

Up to 140 fires were recorded around the state last week and a young man had lost his life in his battle to contain the fires.

More than 400 interstate firefighters were battling the bush fires with the help of 20 aircraft.

Relief from the heat was not expected until midweek.

Firefighters are battling an intense heat wave with temperatures reaching 40C and wild winds

'While conditions have eased following the Catastrophic Fire Danger Ratings observed on Wednesday, Severe to Extreme heatwave conditions are expected to continue into next week extending into the northwest and southeast of the state,' said Bruce Gunn, Bureau of Meteorology State Manager for Queensland.

Since November 22, Queensland Ambulance Service had responded to 117 cases of heat related illness across Queensland.

Tropical Cyclone Owen was barreling towards Australia and while it was not expected to make landfall, its high winds and rain will be felt on the Queensland coastline.A man wanting more than his feet rubbed in a Queens massage parlor assaulted staff before producing a hammer and smashing a piggy bank in a rage after his female masseuse refused to give him extras.

The man had paid for a foot massage on Thursday night, at the Tao Spa Bodywork in Flushing, Queens.

When it was over, he'd offered more cash to his masseuse in exchange for 'sexual favors', police said, as reported in The New York Post.

The man assaulted the masseuse, who had given him a foot massage after he offered more cash in exchange for 'sexual favors' and was turned down

The man demanded and was denied a refund for the foot massage. He also assaulted another spa worker

The 55-year-old female masseuse said no and wouldn't give the man a refund for the foot massage when he asked for his money back.

The price of the massage is unknown.

The man then demanded cash, dragged the woman into the reception area of the spa before punching her in the face. The incident was captured on surveillance video.

In a surveillance video, the man is seen to produce a hammer, swinging it toward a spa worker before breaking a golden piggy bank on the front counter

Police said he made off with dollar bills and coins. The incident happened on Thursday night

Police said he then pinned another 55-year-old woman against a wall and hit her, demanding more money.

In the video, the man is seen to produce a hammer, swinging it toward a spa worker.

He then turns his attention to a golden piggy bank on a counter in the front of the parlor and smashes it with the hammer.

He grabs some dollar bills, presumably left as tips for the spa workers.

He then left with the cash and coins, according to police.Grammar schools across the country will today be given the go-ahead to create thousands of new places to meet fierce demand from parents.

A total of 16 schools have been given a share of a 50million fund to build new classrooms  accommodating up to 4,000 extra pupils.

The schools, across 12 counties, were selected from 39 bidders and make up 10 per cent of the country's 163 grammars.

The money has been granted on the condition the schools carry out ambitious plans to admit more poor pupils.

A total of 16 grammar schools across 12 counties will be given a share of a 50million fund (stock image)

All have pledged to prioritise disadvantaged applicants, either through quotas or by lowering pass marks for those below an income threshold.

They have also agreed to provide free test preparation materials for the 11-Plus, such as practice papers, so that no applicant is on the back foot.

Other measures being adopted include outreach and mentoring programmes and bursaries for uniforms, travel and extracurricular activities.

Selection panel insiders said there was a 'high bar' for choosing schools and only those with the most radical plans to help poorer pupils were successful.

Announcing the list, Education Secretary Damian Hinds said: 'I have always been clear that selective schools will only be able to expand if they meet the high bar we have set for increasing access for disadvantaged children, and all of these schools have done that.

'As a result, countless more children from disadvantaged areas will benefit from places at outstanding schools.'

Education Secretary Damian Hinds said: 'I have always been clear that selective schools will only be able to expand if they meet the high bar we have set for increasing access for disadvantaged children, and all of these schools have done that'

The Department for Education created the Selective School Expansion Fund in May partly to incentivise heads to change their approach to admissions. Many had already adopted arrangements to improve social mobility, but the plans created to secure the funding are much more ambitious.

Many of the successful schools are in the Home Counties, where there is a large concentration of grammars and where there has been a desperate shortage of secondary places. Others are in London, Dorset, Devon and the Midlands.

Parent backlash at Ofsted boss who said pupils need to be potty-trained Ofsted head: Amanda Spielman Parents have slammed the head of Ofsted for 'berating' them for relying on teachers to potty-train their children. Amanda Spielman, the head of the schools watchdog, said every primary school she visited this year had at least one child starting Reception in nappies  and parents expected schools to be a 'panacea' to 'societal ills'. But furious parents hit back last night. Michelle Doyle Wildman, acting chief executive of Parentkind, said: 'The vast majority of parents are doing a terrific job. I'm not sure berating them will lead to positive change for our kids.' Speaking before presenting Ofsted's annual report tomorrow, Miss Spielman said health professionals, parents and safeguarding partners should all play a role in raising children. She believes expectations on schools to address obesity, gang-related violence and knife crime risk distracting them from their core purpose. Advertisement

More than half of the schools have committed to lowering the mark required to pass the entrance test for pupils eligible for the 'pupil premium'  the Government measure of deprivation. Some agreed to lower the mark by up to ten points.

One school pledged to admit all disadvantaged pupils living nearby even if their mark is lower than others  as long as they meet a minimum standard.

Many also agreed to help 'pupil premium' children or those at schools in less affluent areas to prepare for entrance tests.

It is understood that when the classrooms are built, the DfE will expect each school to set targets for the proportion of disadvantaged pupils they admit.

Today's announcement builds on the 825,000 new school places created since 2010 and the million the Government is on course to create by 2020.

Jim Skinner, of the Grammar School Heads Association, said: 'The large majority of selective schools prioritise access for disadvantaged pupils, which is backed up by outreach and partnership work with local schools.

'Selective schools are therefore well placed to contribute to meeting the ongoing need for more school places and supporting high-quality education provision elsewhere.'

The move comes after Theresa May was forced to scrap her plans to create a raft of new grammar schools, targeted at disadvantaged communities.

The plan had to be abandoned when she lost her Commons majority because it would have required a change in the law.

Following a ban by New Labour in 1998, the creation of new selective schools is illegal. Critics of grammars say only middle-class children can get in because so many parents pay for private tutoring to ensure high marks in entrance exams.

But the Prime Minister believes the schools can be a force for social mobility if they adopt admissions procedures which favour poorer pupils.Thousands of Australian have been hoodwinked into handing over personal information in the hope of winning a tiny home.

The temptation to win a tiny home was too much for 119,000 people who signed up for the Facebook scam last week - despite a number of warnings.

In four easy steps users were promised to be eligible for the giveaway. They had to 'Like' the page, share the post and comment 'done'.

They were then directed to the sign up button where they registered their details.

Thousands of Australian have been hoodwinked into handing over personal information in the hope of winning a tiny home

The temptation to win a tiny home was too much for 119,000 people who signed up for the Facebook scam last week - despite a number of warnings

The tiny home was pictured nestled among large trees with a view of a river - the reality is those images were taken in Canada, not Australia

Almost 60,000 people had commented on the post by the time the competition had closed on Sunday.

However, a company by the same name Tiny Homes Australia has warned people of the scam.

'We are not running any giveaway promotions, they are scam accounts.

'Do not click on them, just report them to Facebook when you see them.

The pictures used in the fake promotion show a sleek, monochrome kitchen and living room with a ladder the leads up to the mezzanine floor.

Almost 60,000 people had commented on the post by the time the competition had closed on Sunday

The images are from a Canadian company  the Mint Tiny House Company, who also urging users to be wary

The pictures used in the fake promotion show a sleek, monochrome kitchen and living room with a ladder the leads up to the mezzanine floor

The images are from a Canadian company  the Mint Tiny House Company, which is also urging users to be wary.

'Just wanted to give you a quick heads up about a scam page that has taken our photos and are using them for a 'free' giveaway of a tinyhouse. This is not us, nor any of our tiny homes for giveaway.'

Social media users who had been tipped off to the hustle were less than pleased.

'Bugga I really wanted to win that,' one woman said.

'I realized that when they started asking weird questions so did leave a note on the post,' a man said.

'Damm thought it look too good!' another man said.

'Just wanted to give you a quick heads up about a scam page that has taken our photo's and are using them for a 'free' giveaway of a tinyhouse,' one company said

The glamorous images of the tiny home were tempting to many Facebook users hoping to win the giveaway - bad sadly it was all a scamAlex Younger (pictured speaking today) told St Andrews students that MI6 is improving its defence against states such as Russia

The head of MI6 has raised concerns about Chinese companies building high-speed mobile internet networks in the UK.

In a rare public appearance, Alex Younger said Britain needs to decide the extent to which we would be comfortable with the Chinese owning our future high-speed internet networks.

China is currently a world leader in developing 5G, a next generation mobile internet technology that promises to deliver much faster download speeds which could revolutionise connectivity.

Speaking to students at St Andrews University, his alma mater, Mr Younger - who is known by the codename C - said: I think this is really interesting. Weve got some decisions to take.

This is about how 5G will, by and large, be based on Chinese technology.

We need to decide the extent to which we are going to be comfortable with Chinese ownership of these technologies and these platforms in an environment where some of our allies have taken quite a definite position.

'We need to have a conversation, it is not wholly straightforward.

Australia and New Zealand have both recently banned Chinese telecoms firm Huawei from providing 5G equipment on national security grounds.

The Australian government said there were concerns about the countrys internet networks being provided by companies likely to be subject to extrajudicial directions from a foreign government.

Alex Younger, the head of MI6, has today warned Russia and others 'intent on subverting our way of life' not to underestimate Britain

The technology, which will supersede the current 4G, could speed up the creation of smart cities in which everything from traffic signals to driverless cars are linked.

Mr Younger, who was giving only his second ever public speech since becoming head of MI6 in 2014, said the UK must adjust to a new political reality as power, money and politics are going east.

He also raised the prospect of a technological arms race, saying that the evolving threat from nation states comes largely from their increasingly innovative exploitation of modern technology.

He added: So simply put, weve got to innovate faster than they can. Indeed, future generations would not forgive us if it were otherwise.

So we are evolving rapidly. Cyber is now our fastest-growing directorate. We are shifting our focus to the nexus between humans and technology.

But my organisation will need to adapt even faster if it is to thrive in the future. And that will require people with new perspectives, capable of harnessing their creativity in ways that we cant yet even imagine.

However, Mr Younger stressed that human intelligence - gathered by agents in the field - will become more, rather than less, important in the digital age.

He also said that, post-Brexit, Britain will continue to work with allies because our security ties in Europe are indispensable.

Mr Younger said that closely working with European intelligence agencies had prevented multiple planned attacks by ISIS which would have resulted in a significant loss of life.

He said that, as a result, MI6 agents had lost their lives doing the exceptionally difficult and dangerous work.

Our country and our allies owe them a debt they can never truly know and never fully repay, he said.

Mr Younger said that Britain's response to the Salisbury nerve agent attack was designed to attach a cost to 'malign behaviour' (pictured Salisbury Cathedral)

In the wide-ranging speech, he also said he was left perplexed by the jailing of British academic Matthew Hedges for spying in the United Arab Emirates.

He was freed last week after a high-profile battle with the Gulf state ally, but officials persisted in calling him an MI6 spy - a claim denied by family and colleagues.

Mr Younger said: I genuinely dont understand how our Emirati partners came to the conclusions they came to. They are important partners of ours, so I think there are some frank conversations ahead of us.

He also said frank conversations were needed after the killing of the journalist Jamal Khashoggi in an attack which he described as shocking and appalling.

The boss of MI6, also known as the Secret Intelligence Service, also used his speech to single out Russia and the flagrant hostile act of the Salisbury nerve agent attack against Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in March.

He said that MI6 will no longer take the state at its word, adding: Mr Skripal came to the UK in an American-brokered exchange, having been pardoned by the president of Russia - and to that extent we assumed that had meaning.

'That is not an assumption we will make again.

Mr Younger described how MI6 helped expose the perpetrators said to be behind the attack, and how it helped co-ordinate the expulsion of Russian diplomats.

He said: Our intention is for the Russian state to conclude that, whatever benefits it thinks it is accruing from this activity, they are not worth the risk. We will do this in our own way, according to our laws, and our values.

We will be successful nonetheless, and I urge Russia or any other state intent on subverting our way of life not to underestimate our determination and our capabilities, or those of our allies.

We can do this to any opponent at any time.Tracey Connelly, pictured in 2013 when she was free on licence after being jailed for her role in the death of her son, has been allowed to write to her other children

The mother of tortured baby Peter Connelly has been allowed to write to her surviving children from prison.

Disgraced mother Tracey Connelly watched porn in a drunken haze as her 17-month-old son Peter, known as Baby P, was tortured to death in 2007 by her lover Steven Barker and his brother Jason Owen.

But despite her sickening lack of care for her son, she has been granted permission to write two letters a year to her other children to 'build bridges' before she hopes to win parole.

Court advisory service CAFCASS is overseeing the contact, with mediators checking the letters before they are sent to the children, reported The Sun.

A source told the newspaper: 'She watched her own child starve and be brutally attacked, yet now she's being given another chance to be a mother.

'She's been given a chance to contact her other children. The contact is being encouraged with a view to building it up in the near future.

'It's not even as though she's sorry. She can regularly be heard to say how she wasn't at fault for what happened to that poor baby boy.'

A Ministry of Justice spokesman said the department does not comment on individual cases.

Peter, known as Baby P, was tortured to death in 2007 by her lover Steven Barker and his brother Jason Owen

Baby P suffered more than 50 injuries including a broken back and fractured ribs before his death in Haringey, North London.

Connelly, 35, was jailed for a minimum of five years in 2009 then freed on licence in 2013.

But she was recalled to HMP Styal in Cheshire 18 months later for selling indecent images of herself to perverts obsessed with her notoriety.

Connelly (pictured after her arrest in 2007) has been allowed to write to her surviving children from prison

Earlier this year, astonishing letters written from jail revealed how she dismissed her involvement in her son's death and detailed her friendship with mass murderer Rose West.

She said West, who killed at least 10 girls with husband Fred and buried them in their 'House of Horrors', had been helping her to lose weight.

Connelly also revealed that she thinks she is innocent, even though she hid Barker and Owen's torture of her son from social workers.

The convict also discussed baking a cake to celebrate her impending divorce.

Connolly, who covered up the abuse of her son Baby Peter, was living with Steven Barker and Jason Owen when little Peter died.

Barker was a sadistic neo-Nazi who raped a two-year-old girl, tortured his own grandmother and is suspected of sex attacks on other children.

Their 'lodger' Owen was a crack cocaine addict and convicted arsonist who was accused of raping a girl of 11.

Convicted rapist Steven Barker (left) and paedophile lodger Jason Owen were both convicted of allowing Baby P's death

The full horror of what they put Peter through only emerged after he was found dead in his cot, his emaciated body covered with 22 separate injuries.

At the time of his death, Peter and his three sisters were sharing a four-bedroom house with their mother, her boyfriend Barker, his paedophile brother Owen and his four children, plus Owen's 15-year-old girlfriend.

Three of the children - Peter and two of his siblings - were on Haringey's Child Protection Register because of fears they were being neglected by their mother.

Social workers, health visitors and doctors saw the family 60 times before 17-month-old Peter died from his horrific injuries, which included a snapped spine and eight broken ribs.

The trio who allowed the death were living in this Tottenham house with four childrenThe man who was arrested in Wellington last year is yet to receive his sentence

A paedophile in his 50s has admitted to kidnapping and raping an eight-year-old girl.

The man pleaded guilty to the charges at Dubbo Local Court last Wednesday following his arrest in Wellington, New South Wales, nearly one year ago.

He appeared via video link from the correctional facility where he had been in custody, wearing prison clothes and a beanie, the Daily Liberal reported.

A paedophile in his 50s has admitted to kidnapping and raping an eight-year-old girl (pictured: Dubbo Local Court)

Guilty pleas were entered on the man's behalf.

The man pleaded guilty to string of offenses including taking or detaining a person with intent to commit a serious indictable offence and to sexual intercourse with a child aged under 10 years.

He also pleaded guilty to two counts of produce child abuse material.

The court then withdrew some of the charges that had been made against him, including two counts of procuring a child aged less than 14 years to produce child abuse material and a charge of aggravated sexual assault.

The man is yet to receive his sentence.Sexting between consenting teens is no longer a criminal offence in New South Wales, where the law has been changed to keep pace with modern dating practices.

Prior to the change - to be introduced on Monday - teens who shared sexually explicit content could be prosecuted for the possession and distribution of child pornography.

But recent reports and Royal Commission findings prompted the government to make exceptions to the law for those who send and receive 'sexts'.

Sexting between consenting teens is no longer a criminal offence as new NSW laws attempt to keep pace with the modern dating practice (file photo)

In fact, sexting is part of the 'normal sexual development and experimentation' among teenagers, the government said.

The attitude shift reflects the findings from a recent study of 110,000 teens aged between 12 and 17 which found over a quarter engage in the behaviour.

A similar study of Year 10, 11 and 12 students found nearly half had received sexually explicit images from a fellow student and one in four had sent a sexually explicit image of themselves.

The state's 'similar age defence' means teens under the age of 18 who are exchanging sexts with other teens of a 'similar age' will not be open to criminal prosecution.

Other protections for teens of similar age have also been implemented for teenagers under the age of 18 who engage in sexual activity including 'sexual touching' and intercourse.

Prior to the change - set to take effect on Monday - teens who shared sexually explicit content could be prosecuted for the possession and distribution of child pornography (stock image)

The change was one of a number of new laws to take effect from Monday on guidance from the findings of the Royal Commission.

A new offence of 'grooming a parent or carer' for the purpose of gaining access to a child was also covered by new legislation.

Additionally, those who failed to report child abuse to authorities would be liable for criminal prosecution, and failing to report known instances of child abuse would carry a maximum sentence of two years behind bars, or five years if a benefit or inducement was given for not reporting the abuse.

Those found to have failed to protect a child from abuse can be prosecuted under the new laws which carry a jail term of up to two years.

The new laws will see perpetrators of sexual touching against children under ten facing a maximum penalty of 16 years behind bars and ten years for committing the same offence for a child between the age of 10 and 16.

'The NSW Government is committed to addressing these shortcomings and has reformed laws to better protect children,' the state government said.Olly Robbins, above, warned Theresa May there was no guarantee Britain might escape the backstop [File photo]

Theresa Mays chief Brexit adviser warned her that the Northern Ireland backstop is a bad outcome which will undermine security co-operation, it was claimed last night.

Olly Robbins said in a letter to the Prime Minister that there was no legal guarantee that Britain will be able to escape the backstop, potentially leaving the UK trapped in a customs union with the EU.

He argued that extending the transition period after Brexit would provide a more cast-iron escape route than going into the backstop after December 2020, the Daily Telegraph reported.

Mr Robbins wrote: We should not forget that the backstop world, even with a UK-EU customs union, is a bad outcome with regulatory controls needed somewhere between GB and NI, serious and visible frictions and process between GB and the EU, and no security co-operation provided for.

Theresa Mays chief Brexit adviser warned her that the Northern Ireland backstop is a bad outcome which will undermine security co-operation

It came as Mrs May was warned she will spark a major row with Commons Speaker John Bercow today by refusing to publish the full official legal advice on Brexit.

Earlier this month, MPs voted unanimously for a Labour motion demanding to see the advice presented to Cabinet ministers. But in a statement to Parliament today, Attorney General Sir Geoffrey Cox will say a summary of the advice  rather than the full document  will be made public.

And opposition parties are now uniting to call for Mr Bercow to declare ministers in contempt of Parliament.

Labour, the Lib Dems, the SNP and  ominously for Downing Street  the Democratic Unionist Party are to write to the Speaker urging him to consider this matter of contempt.

A draft of the letter, seen by The Sunday Telegraph, says the Governments statement does not constitute the final and full advice provided by the Attorney General to the Cabinet.

It adds: It does not comply with a motion of the House that you have ruled to be effective. We would now ask that you consider giving the House of Commons the opportunity to debate and consider this matter of contempt at the earliest opportunity.

If Mr Bercow allows a motion to come before the House, and it is carried, a committee of MPs would rule on whether ministers were in contempt. The Standards and Privileges Committee can then recommend a suitable punishment, which is then put back to MPs to agree. The most severe penalty is expulsion from the House.

If Mr Bercow, above, allows a motion to come before the House, and it is carried, a committee of MPs would rule on whether ministers were in contempt [File photo]

Yesterday it was claimed that the full legal advice warns the UK could be tied to the EU customs union indefinitely after Brexit, something which would enrage many Tory MPs. Current and former ministers said the advice made clear the UK could be left locked in the controversial Northern Ireland backstop, The Sunday Times reported.

DUP Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson said: If the Government attempt to ignore the will of the Commons... the DUP will work with colleagues from right across the House to ensure they start to listen.

Labours shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer said ministers were getting into very, very deep water by breaching an order of Parliament.

Conservative Party chairman Brandon Lewis defended the decision not to publish the legal advice, saying there was a historic, centuries-old custom of client confidentiality, and cited the precedent of the Iraq war.A senior ISIS leader involved in the murder of former U.S. Army Ranger Peter Kassig has been killed in a drone strike on Sunday.

Abu al Umarayn, along with 'several other ISIS members', were killed in precision drone strikes in Syria's Badiyah Desert, U.S.-led coalition spokesperson Colonel Sean Ryan said in a statement, according to Fox News.

The statement said that 'Al Umarayn had given indications of posing an imminent threat to Coalition Forces and he was involved in the killing of American Citizen and former U.S. Army Ranger, Peter Kassig.

'He has been linked to and directly involved with executing several other prisoners as a senior ISIS member.

'Coalition airstrikes continue to disrupt ISIS command and control on the battlefield as we remove key figures from their ranks.'

Kassig, a 26-year-old aid worker and U.S. citizen, was captured in Syria in October 2013.

Senior ISIS leader Abu al Umarayn was killed in a drone strike on Sunday. He was involved in the killing of former U.S. Army Ranger Peter Kassig who was captured in Syria (pictured above)

He was working to provide aid to Syrians who were fleeing the country's civil war and had formed the aid organization Special Emergency Response and Assistance, or SERA, in Turkey to provide aid and assistance to Syrian refugees.

He was said by his friends to have converted to Islam in captivity and took the first name Abdul-Rahman.

Kassig had begun delivering food and medical supplies to Syrian refugee camps in 2012 and was also a trained medical assistant who provided trauma care to injured Syrian civilians and helped train civilians to provide medical aid.

Prior to his aid work he'd enlisted in the Army in 2004, and became a Ranger, serving in the 75th Ranger Regiment, an Army special operations unit, according to his military record.

Kassig, a 26-year-old aid worker, working in Syria was captured in October 2013. In 2014 graphic footage was released by ISIS showing he was beheaded

After training at Fort Benning, Georgia, in 2006, he was deployed to Iraq from April to July 2007 and medically discharged at the rank of private first class in September 2007.

In 2014, graphic footage was released by ISIS showing Kassig was beheaded in captivity.

U.S. officials at the time confirmed the footage was authentic.Nine young children and two adults are being assessed by paramedics for breathing difficulties after they were exposed to chemical fumes at a public swimming pool.

New South Wales Ambulance crews were called to Wollondilly Community Leisure Centre in Sydney's southwest about 10am on Monday where it's believed an incorrect chemical mixture led to the fumes being released.

The children are under the age of six.

The Wollondilly Council has shared on Twitter that Leisure Centre shut its doors this morning after the incident

One child has been rushed to hospital in a serious condition. There were five other people taken to hospital in a stable condition

Fire and Rescue NSW and NSW Police were at the scene.

One child was rushed to hospital in a serious condition,

Five other people were taken to nearby hospitals all in a stable condition.

All patients were suffering from breathing issues, an Ambulance NSW spokesman said.

The Wollondilly Council intially closed leisure centre after the incident but it has partially reopened.

'The indoor pool will remain closed until mid-afternoon as a precaution, while the outdoor pool, gym and foyer remain open.'

The area has been ventilated by fire crews, there is no evidence of smell remaining.

New South Wales Ambulance crews were called to Wollondilly Community Leisure Centre in Sydney's southwest about 10am on MondayTyson Fury has pledged to donate the 8million he earned for fighting Deontay Wilder to charity.

The former heavyweight champion, who drew with Wilder in Los Angeles on Saturday night, said he would give away his earnings to help the homeless.

He said before the bout: 'I'm going to give it to the poor and I'm going to build homes for the homeless.

Fury uses his power and clever skill to find a way through to the head of the champion

Tyson Fury was knocked down twice but showed resilience to rise up and finish the fight

'I don't really have much use for it, I'm not interested in becoming a millionaire or a billionaire. I'm a boxer not a businessman and I'll probably go down the same route as every other boxer - skint at the end of it all.

'You can't take it with you, so I might as well do something with it and help out people who can't help themselves.'

Fury, from Manchester, battled drug and alcohol addiction as well as mental health difficulties before his comeback on Saturday.

He said: 'When I go home I'm going to build some homes for the homeless and set up some funds for drug addicts and alcoholics.

'I was always going to do it but being here (in California) gives me that extra push to go and do it even more.

He was sent hurtling to the ground and the impact was felt by those watching around the world

'It has really opened my eyes to a lot of things and I'm leaving as a better person.

'There are a lot of homeless people on the streets here, more than I've ever seen ever in my life. I'm staying in downtown LA but if you go five minutes down the road there's like  I don't know  thousands of homeless people.

'I'm just an outsider with an opinion but it's a situation that is happening all over the world, especially in the UK as well.'

The Gypsy King, who has four children with his wife Paris and another on way explained why he will not hand the money to his family.

Alejandro Rochin, Robert Tapper and Phil Edwards were the three judges for the fight

He said: 'I believe all kids should make their own money in life because if they don't, they won't appreciate it.

'It's easy to spend someone else's money and the money I've earned is practically blood money.

'My kids have to make their own living and make their own way in life; they won't be living off my name or reputation because that's too easy a route.

'You see many of these rich people's kids doing nothing because they had it too easy. I never had it easy, I had to work for whatever I got. I was working from very young, everything I wanted in life I had to work for.'A severed head was thrown out of an upstairs window at a house party where a 71-year-old man died, a witness has claimed.

Police are investigating the death of a man in an apartment block in Lower Hutt near Wellington on New Zealand's north island on Friday evening.

The witness, who wishes to remain anonymous, claims she saw a person's head thrown out of an apartment window and that police verified her information as correct.

Police have confirmed the deceased man was decapitated.

Watching from a nearby balcony, the witness told Stuff the apartment on Jackson Street, Petone, had been holding a party that night.

She claims 'a couple of gang-affiliated members' were in attendance, and believes they had planned to rob the victim of homemade synthetic drugs and around $10,000 cash he had made from selling them.

At around 9pm, the party allegedly went silent, and the witness said she thought nothing more was going on.

Shortly afterwards, the witness heard 'a whole lot of screaming', and then she saw what she believed to be a severed head thrown from the balcony above the apartment.

Police are investigating the death of a 71-year-old man in an apartment block on Jackson Street, Petone on Friday evening

A witness, who wishes to remain anonymous, said she saw a person's head thrown out of an apartment window, and that police verified her information as correct

'I saw a plastic bag with a big lump in it with blood on the inside, or what I think is blood, there was a whole lot of red in there,' she said.

'Everyone screamed out that there's a head and then it got chucked back up and people were like "here's your head back".'

Police arrived shortly afterwards and it is understood they arrested a 41-year-old man on 'unrelated charges of causing willful damage and drug possession'.

Detective Inspector Shane Cotter said scene examination was likely to continue for 'several more days'.

Police told Daily Mail Australia a statement will be released once they have formally identified the man following a post-mortem.

Police have neither confirmed nor denied the witness' statement, but the witness told reporters she was interviewed by police who said her version of events was 'the truth'.A top Russian spy chief has vanished amid suspicions he helped develop the Salisbury novichok attack.

Oleg Martyanov, 58, was relieved of his position as a member of the Russian military-industrial commission in October just after the Salisbury assassins were unmasked, and is now thought to be missing.

The veteran, who fought in Afghanistan, ran an elite technology department on futuristic military robots and undetectable poisons, as reported by The Sun.

Last year, he spoke about a 'future soldier' concept called Ratnik- a next generation body armour for elite soliders.

Oleg Martyanov, member of the Military Industrial Commission of the Russian Federation (C), talks to journalists at the 2nd military-scientific conference 'Robotization of the Russian Armed Forces'

He also spoke about utilising robots and other futuristic technologies, but that robots are unlikely to completely replace soldiers on the battlefield.

His disappearance comes amid claims his experts produced the novichok perfume bottle used to poison Sergei Skripal, 67 and his daughter Yulia, 34.

A source told The Sun: 'Martyanov has disappeared off the face of the earth  it's extraordinary.

'He was a war hero and a top military man in charge of an elite special operations unit, but overnight he has become a ghost.

'It's not surprising there is speculation that his departure is linked to the Skripal attack. The timing alone speaks volumes.'

Alexander Mishkin (pictured right) is a military doctor working for Russian intelligence and travelled to Salisbury under the alias Alexander Petrov. Anatoliy Chepiga (pictured left), is a highly decorated officer in the GRU

Alexander Mishkin and Anatoliy Chepiga who is a highly decorated officer in the GRU, pictured walking in Salisbury

Two officers from the GRU agency are accused of travelling to the UK and attempting to assassinate Sergei Skripal, a former GRU colonel, in March.

The botched assassination attempt led to the death of Dawn Sturgess, who, along with partner Charlie Rowley, fell ill after handling a container contaminated with the nerve agent in June.

In September Theresa May revealed that two Russian nationals had been identified as suspects over the attack.

British spy agencies concluded the men, who travelled to the UK under the aliases of Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov, were GRU officers.

The Prime Minister described the agency as a 'highly disciplined organisation with a well-established chain of command'.

Investigative group Bellingcat reported that Petrov is actually Alexander Mishkin (pictured left), a doctor for the GRU, and Ruslan Boshirov (pictured right) is a decorated Russian agent named Anatoliy Chepiga

Following a widely-dismissed television denial, in which the pair claimed they were simply tourists visiting the cathedral city, their 'real' identities were revealed weeks later.

Investigative website Bellingcat said it had established Boshirov's true identity, reporting he was actually Colonel Anatoliy Chepiga, a highly decorated officer in the GRU.

Bellingcat later said Petrov's real identity was Alexander Mishkin, a military doctor in the GRU.

Both men had been awarded the Hero of the Russian Federation from Mr Putin, the investigators said.

The Bellingcat claims followed the president's assertion that the men were civilians and had been discounted as members of his security network.

Mr Skripal was given refuge in the UK in 2010 after a 'spy-swap' which saw 10 Russian sleeper agents expelled from the United States.

Accused of acting as a double agent after leaving the GRU in 1999, he was serving a 13-year prison sentence for allegedly working for MI6.

Russia has continuously denied attempting to kill him.

Now looking even more shaky... The 'farcical' RT interview that saw the would-be assassins claim they were innocent civilians Revelations about the military background of Colonel Anatoliy Vladimirovich Chepiga make the interview he gave to RT in September alongside the second suspected assassin Alexander Petrov appear even more farcical. Observers quickly pointed out a number of gaping holes in their story, including: The 'accidental' visit to Skripal's home CCTV released by police places the two suspects at Sergei Skripal's suburban house. Today the men admitted they may have ended up there - but claimed it was an accident. The property, which had Novichok smeared on the door, is 25 minutes away from the city centre and its cathedral - which the men said they were there to see. Ruslan Boshirov said: 'Maybe we passed it, or maybe we didn't. I'd never heard about them before this nightmare started. I'd never heard this name before. I didn't know anything about them'. The hotel 127 miles from Salisbury Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov were guests at the City Stay Hotel in Bow, East London, before poisoning Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia. The Metropolitan Police confirmed today that 'low' levels of the nerve agent were found in the two-star 48 a night hotel in May. The men chose a spot some distance from Waterloo - the main rail route to Salisbury - despite making the Wiltshire city the focus of their visit. It is 127 miles from Salisbury. The 'bad' weather Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov claimed that they only stayed in Salisbury because of heavy snow. The pair visited days after the Beast from the East hit Britain bringing unseasonably cold weather. Describing the condition Boshirov said: 'It was impossible to get anywhere because of the snow. We were drenched up to our knees'. But CCTV pictures of the men shows the pavements were largely clear of snow. They also told RT that it snowed in the city that afternoon, but weather maps from that day show sunshine and clear skies. The missing luggage The men went straight from Salisbury to Heathrow for the evening flight. But CCTV suggested that they did not have any luggage with them on their way home. AdvertisementThe United States Navys Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) is investigating the apparent suicide by a three-star admiral who was in charge of the Fifth Fleet.

Vice Admiral Scott Stearney was found dead in his home in Bahrain on Saturday, the Navys chief of operations, Admiral John Richardson, said in a statement.

NCIS is conducting the investigation together with the Bahraini Ministry of Interior, according to Richardson.

'This is devastating news for the Stearney family, for the team at Fifth Fleet and for the entire Navy,' Admiral John Richardson, chief of naval operations, said in a video statement.

'Scott Stearney was a decorated Naval warrior. He was a devoted husband and father, and he was a good friend to all,' the statement said.

Scroll down for video

Vice Admiral Scott Stearney was found dead in his home in Bahrain on Saturday, the Navys chief of operations, Admiral John Richardson, said in a statement. Stearney is seen above aboard the USS Jason Dunham, a guided-missile destroyer, in Manama, Bahrain in October

Stearney, 58, was the most senior officer who oversaw American naval operations in a critical part of the world that includes the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, and the Upper Indian Ocean. He is seen above in the center at U.S. Naval Base in Bahrain in May

'The Naval Criminal Investigative Service and the Bahraini Ministry of the Interior are cooperating on the investigation, but at this time no foul play is suspected,' said Richardson.

Stearney, 58, was the most senior officer who oversaw American naval operations in a critical part of the world that includes the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, and the Upper Indian Ocean.

Much of the worlds oil is exported through these sea lanes that span 2.5 million square miles, which are protected by the United States military, making it particularly sensitive.

Since taking up the post in May of this year, Stearney had under his command more than 20,000 sailors from the U.S. and other coalition partners.

Im certain that its rattled the men and women on his staff and the sailors in the Fifth Fleet, retired Rear Admiral John Kirby, who was a State Department spokesperson, told CNN.

But, he added: It wont have an impact on their mission.

Kirby said the Navy is sending a three-star admiral to serve as interim commander of the fleet.

Stearney was a native of Chicago, Illinois. He earned a degree in economics from the University of Notre Dame before enlisting in the Navy in 1982

That officer is Vice Admiral James Malloy, a deputy chief of naval operations, according to The New York Times.

Before Malloy takes up the interim post, Rear Admiral Paul J. Schlise, the deputy commander of the Fifth Fleet, will temporarily assume the reins.

Stearney was a native of Chicago, Illinois. He earned a degree in economics from the University of Notre Dame before enlisting in the Navy in 1982.

He then became a fighter pilot, graduating from Navy Fighter Weapons School, which is more commonly known as TOP GUN.

Stearney also earned a degree from the National Defense University.

During his career, Stearney flew the FA-18 Hornet. He also served in Kabul, Afghanistan as chief of a joint task force.

During his career, he amassed more than 4,500 mishap free flight hours and more than 1,000 carrier-arrested landings, according to the Navy.Two Muslim brothers ordered to demolish an illegal religious compound north of Sydney have done almost nothing to abide by court orders made three months ago.

Mustapha and Diaa Kara-Ali were told to stop all work on the bushland hideaway at Colo in the Hawkesbury region but instead erected more buildings on the site.

On August 27 the Land and Environment Court ordered the pair to demolish and remove sheds, slabs, fences and every other structure they had illegally built on the property within 28 days.

Justice Terry Sheahan's orders were ignored and the brothers now face jail after each pleaded guilty to four counts of contempt.

Brothers Diaa (left) and Mustapha (right) Kara-Ali refused to dismantle an Islamic retreat built without council approval because they claimed not to be answerable to Australian laws

This photograph of the frame of a barn built by the Kara-Ali brothers at the Colo retreat was taken on August 21, six days before Justice Terry Sheahan ordered it to be pulled down

This photograph taken last Friday shows the completed barn, more than three months after Justice Sheahan ordered its removal. Further fencing has also been added to the property

Photographs taken last Friday compared with pictures taken in August show the Kara-Ali brothers continued to undertake work at the Putty Road site after the orders were made.

The frame of a barn is clearly visible in pictures taken a week before the court orders. Three months later that barn has been completed and is housing Arabian horses.

Last month a lawyer for the brothers said they had removed religious signage from the property as well as flags and flagpoles. Little else seems to have been done to comply with Justice Sheahan's orders.

'My clients have indicated they want to enter into discussions with Hawkesbury Council,' the lawyer told Justice Sheahan.

'They have resigned themselves to a position of compliance. They've consciously made a decision to de-escalate the matter.'

'They have begun the process of complying with the orders. It is my clients' position the site is no longer suitable for religious purposes. It has been desecrated, as such.'

A lawyer for Diaa (left) and Mustapha (right) Kara-Ali told Justice Terry Sheahan last month the brothers were in the process of complying with his orders. They have a lot of work left to do

This pictures shows the front gates of the Colo religious retreat as well as flagpoles and fences that were erected without approval. Across the road the Kara-Alis illegally cleared bushland

The barn, shed and demountable buildings in this picture were to be demolished or removed two months ago. Instead, the barn has been finished and more fencing has been installed

The Kara-Ali brothers had previously said they would not obey Australia law and indicated they would refuse to abide by any court rulings over their religious retreat.

They refused to acknowledge legal action brought by Hawkesbury City Council and for months ignored all orders of the Land and Environment Court.

Mustapha Kara-Ali had told Daily Mail Australia he would refuse council officers access to the land, stating they were 'Cruasaders' and an affront to Islam.

He and Diaa refused to attend the court because they did not recognise its authority.

The brothers maintained their resolve after Justice Sheahan found they had undertaken land clearing and earthworks in breach of planning laws and had built structures without approval.

'Because of the religious symbolism of the court, that contradicts with my religion,' Mustapha Kara-Ali said. 'For my religion to be free I can't be dictated to by another religion.'

Mustapha (right) and Diaa Kara-Ali (left) pictured when confronted by Hawkesbury City Council officers at the gates of their 12 hectare property in the Hawkesbury region in July

Justice Terry Sheahan ordered on August 27 this gateway and fencing at the Kara-Alis' Colo religious retreat to be removed within 28 days . This photograph was taken on November 30

Justice Sheahan ordered all structures on the site including an elaborate entrance, four flagpoles, three concrete slabs, a shed and the partly-built barn be demolished.

He also restrained the group from 'carrying out of any and all religious activities of devotion, self-discipline, ritual baptism, inter-community prayers, contemplation and religious study or for the purposes of public worship.'

The Kara-Alis were building the retreat under the auspices of the Diwan Al Dawla Islamic guild, which bought the property for $670,000 in May last year.

The 12 hectare property has been home to about 30 Arabian horses which the group intended to use to help troubled Muslim youth, particularly from western Sydney, engage with God.

The council launched civil action against the brothers alleging they had carried out illegal land clearing and earthworks and built gates, fences and driveways without approval.

This barn, built for Arabian horses, was just a frame when court orders were made for its removal. It is the largest illegally built structure on an illegal Islamic retreat north of Sydney

Every building in this photograph taken on November 30 should have been removed by the end of September. Some of the structures have been added since the court orders were made

The brothers agreed they had not sought approval for the work and said they had no intention of doing so because they did not recognise Australian law.

'My main issue is the interference between the secular and the religious,' Mustapha Kara-Ali said.

'What we are saying in a nutshell is the country of Australia is entrenched in secular symbolism and religious symbolism that stretches back to the time of the Crusades.

'This means that this government is not secular. It is religious because it carries these symbols.

'And we refuse for pagan symbols such as crosses to be on top of our lives.

'Remove these religious symbols and we can talk about secular government. But not now. For us, this is religious freedom.'

The imam said if government bodies tried to enforce their rules upon him he would resist. 'I tell you what, people like us will say our God is supreme.'

Mustapha Kara-Ali pictured at the gates of the religious retreat he founded at Colo in the Hawkesbury region north of Sydney. He did not seek council approval for the development

The only obvious work to rehabilitate the Colo bushland site that has been done since court orders were made on August 27 is the removal of religious signage and four flagpoles

Dr Kara-Ali believed his guild members were being treated as 'violent ragheads that know nothing about the world.'

'We believe in our cause. We believe we are pioneers of religious freedom in this country.

'It is our way to disconnect. We want to disconnect. We want to be left alone.'

The court heard the conflict turned ugly in July when three council officers attended the property to serve papers on the Kara-Ali brothers. A dashcam video tendered to the court showed the pair confront the officers.

'Both men were repeatedly yelling obscenities from the other side of the gate, calling out, "You dogs, I step on your cross", one of the council officers alleged.

However, Dr Kara-Ali said he and his brother were intimidated by the actions of the 'violent monkeys' and anyone could enter the site as long as they did not do so under a cross.

These demountable buildings, photographed on August 21, were to be removed within 28 days of August 27. They were being used by workers on the property or sometimes for prayer

The same demountable buildings are still on the property, three months after a court order that they be removed. Mustapha and Diaa Kara-Ali have pleaded guilty to contempt charges

Dr Kara-Ali wrote to Hawkesbury City Council in March explaining another reason why he believed government had no authority over his group.

'The Colo Wilderness site is a religious site that is owned by the members of Diwan Al Dawla for the carrying out of religious activities of devotion, self-discipline, ritual baptism, inter-community prayers, contemplation and religious study, he wrote.

'The Land with its Colo River access serves as a reclusive place of worship.'

'Members of Diwan al Dawla... live as a religious guild separated from secular lifetsyles to pursue a religious mode of worship to and an ascetic lifestyle under an oath of self-sacrifice and dedication to the purpose of Diwan Al Dawla.'

Dr Kara-Ali contended Hawkesbury City Council had no power to tell Diwan Al Dawla what to do because it is a 'basic religious charity' registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for profits Commission (ACNC).

'Charities who meet the definition of Basic Religious Charity do not have to submit annual financial reports, and they do not have to comply with the ACNC governance standards which include... "Compliance with Australian laws",' Dr Kara-Ali wrote.

According to the imam, that also put his guild above the law.

The Kara-Ali brothers are due back in court on Monday when Justice Sheahan will hear evidence about what they have done to comply with his orders.The DUP is on the verge of ending its deal to support Theresa May's government, it was reported last night.

The Northern Irish party's ten MPs have a confidence and supply deal with the government to give Mrs May a narrow majority in the Commons.

But they may renege to vote against her Brexit deal over fears it will discriminate Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK and create a trade border in the Irish Sea.

The DUP is on the verge of ending its deal to support Theresa May's government. Pictured: DUP leader Arlene Forster

DUP sources last night said they were considering the move, reported The Times.

It comes after Mrs May vowed to cling on as PM - despite facing a catastrophic Commons defeat over her Brexit deal.

The Prime Minister insisted she will face down massive opposition from more than 100 Tory rebels, Labour, the SNP and the Lib Dems to the package she thrashed out with the EU.

She said the next nine days will 'determine the future' of the UK.

But she was humiliatingly forced to deny that the G20 summit in Argentina could be her last foreign trip as PM - saying there is 'a lot more for me still to do'.

The scale of the challenge facing Mrs May was underlined over the weekend with the resignation of universities minister Sam Gyimah, who joined demands for a second referendum.

One No10 aide is reported to have complained that the PM is acting like Hitler in his bunker at the end of the Second World War, insisting victory can still be secured.

Theresa May insisted she will face down massive opposition from more than 100 Tory rebels, Labour, the SNP and the Lib Dems to the package she thrashed out with the EU

Meanwhile, Labour has confirmed it will 'inevitably' call a no-confidence vote in the wake of what looks like her near-certain defeat in the Commons on December 11.

As critics gathered for an all-out assault, shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer hinted that his favoured outcome is a second referendum - suggesting staying in the EU should be an option in the ballot, and no-deal Brexit should not be.

A group of Cabinet ministers are also said to be preparing to push for a Norway-style relationship with the EU to avoid a disastrous no-deal.

Commons vote on Brexit deal 'could be scrapped' Next week's Brexit vote in the Commons could be scrapped as the Prime Minister plans to seek more concessions from Brussels, it's been revealed. The crucial vote - due to go ahead next Monday - could be postponed as Tory whips urge Theresa May to go back to EU to renegotiate her deal. If true, the Government would abandon the vote on Friday - just two sitting days before the December 11 date, according to The Sun. The move is reportedly backed by a string of senior Cabinet ministers including Sajid Javid, Chris Grayling, Jeremy Hunt and Liam Fox. It could give Mrs May one last chance to win over Tory rebels, if she were to come back with a new and improved deal. The plan comes after was one of several last minute options discussed amid a fear the deal is on course to lose by up to 200 votes in the Commons. Downing street still insists that the December 11 vote will go ahead. Advertisement

But speaking as she wrapped up a thorny G20 summit in Argentina last night, Mrs May insisted her premiership will not end with Brexit.

'The next nine days are a really important time for our country, leading up to the vote on this deal,' she told a press conference in Buenos Aires.

'I will be talking with Members of Parliament obviously and explaining to them why I believe this is a good deal for the UK, why it is a deal that delivers on Brexit but it is also a deal that protects jobs and the economy, and why passing this deal in the vote that takes place in the House of the Commons will take us to certainty for the future, and that failure to do that would only lead to uncertainty.

'I think what people want, and what I've been hearing here at the G20 is the importance of that certainty for the future.'

Asked what she would like her legacy to be if she is forced out of her job as a result of Conservative divisions over Brexit, Mrs May replied: 'There is a lot more for me still to do, not least delivering on Brexit and being the Prime Minister that does take the United Kingdom out of the European Union.'

Mrs May told the Mail on Sunday she would not be deterred by the resignation of Mr Gyimah over a demand for a second referendum  and promised to fight tirelessly during the 'momentous' days ahead to win the crunch Commons vote on December 11.

Mr Gyimah said he was resigning from the Government because Mrs May's deal would mean the UK losing its voice in the EU while still having to abide by the bloc's rules.

He said: 'In these protracted negotiations, our interests will be repeatedly and permanently hammered by the EU27 for many years to come.

'Britain will end up worse off, transformed from rule makers into rule takers To vote for this deal is to set ourselves up for failure. We will be losing, not taking control, of our national destiny.'

His move meant that the No 10 team in Buenos Aires spent Friday battling in vain to avert his resignation  while juggling diplomatically fraught encounters with Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Labour's Keir Starmer said today the circumstances were so 'exceptional' that the government's legal advice must be released

They were also furious that Mr Gyimah's resignation  the seventh by a Minister over the issue  overshadowed a carefully timed declaration of support by Environment Secretary and leading Brexiteer Michael Gove.

A senior source said: 'It's a stab in the back from someone [Mr Gyimah] who hopes to be leader. But the only person tipping Sam for leader is Sam.'

Mrs May said she 'profoundly disagreed' with Mr Gyimah for wanting a second referendum and that voting down her deal in an attempt to achieve it would end the Brexit project altogether.

Mrs May said: 'If you look around the Commons you will see people who are trying to frustrate Brexit. We are nine days from the meaningful vote.

'At the end of those nine days we want to be able to look to a bright and certain future.

'This is a momentous period in our country's history, and over the next nine days I want to focus on the significance of this vote, because it determines our future'.

It is the second time that Mrs May has been 'betrayed' by a minister over a second referendum while she carried out foreign duties.

Last month, Transport Minister Jo Johnson quit while she attended Remembrance services in Europe.

What happens if Labour calls a confidence vote in the government? Before 2010, losing a crucial vote like the looming one on the Brexit deal would itself have been enough to force an election. But under the Fixed Term Parliaments Act, there are specific steps that need to be followed to send the country back to the polls outside the usual five year parliamentary term. The easiest way to to trigger an election before May 2022 is to secure a two-thirds majority in the Commons - but this appears highly unlikely Otherwise, the government must first lose a motion stating explicitly that MPs have no confidence. There is then a 14 day period in which another government can be formed - almost certainly led by a Tory - that can win a confidence vote. Only if that time elapses will the starting pistol be fired on a general election campaign. Advertisement

With the sense of gloom mounting, one No10 aide told the Sunday Times Mrs May seemed to be in denial.

'No one is even allowed to talk about plan B. Anyone who discusses other options is seen as disloyal,' the said.

'It's like the scene in Downfall where Hitler is going on about the armies about to sweep in and save the day and the generals are looking at him as if he's mad.'

Meanwhile, Tory MP Nick Boles said up to eight Cabinet ministers had been asking his advice about his plan for a Norway-style relationship with the EU.

'I've spoken to probably now six or eight members of the Cabinet  I don't want to say that they're all completely signed up to this as a Plan B. Of course they're all supporting the Prime Minister's plan first and foremost.

'Some of them are very committed to it  Amber Rudd has been very clear before she went back into the Cabinet that this is her preferred fallback option.

'Others are thinking it over. But what is true of everyone is that they're all looking for that realistic, doable, negotiable, deliverable Brexit deal and there aren't any others if the Prime Minister's deal is defeated.'

However, he admitted that the arrangement would mean effectively accepting free movement rules - something the PM has repeatedly ruled out.

Mrs May insists she can still carry the vote through the Commons on December 11, despite calculations that more than 100 Tory MPs could rebel.

Asked if she expected to be celebrating Christmas as Prime Minister, she said: 'This has never been about me actually over the next nine days I am not going to be giving Christmas much thought at all. I am going to be focusing on this deal.'

But it is understood that Mrs May has already started sending the official Prime Ministerial Christmas cards.

Mrs May, making the first visit to Buenos Aires by a British Prime Minister, added that she had used the G20 summit 'have a chat with Donald Trump we both acknowledged we will be able to do a trade deal'.

Mr Gove warned yesterday that leaving the EU would be under 'great threat' if the deal was rejected by MPs.

But Mrs May is coming under intense cross-party pressure to agree to a second referendum if she loses the Commons vote, a move that would infuriate Tory pro-Brexit MPs.

Conservative Party chairman Brandon Lewis insisted Theresa May's deal is the 'only option', saying: 'Plan B is plan A - it's to get this deal agreed.'

He told Sky News' Sophy Ridge on Sunday: 'It is the only deal that's there on the table, it's the only option we have got it: if this deal doesn't go through, we have the risk of no Brexit, no deal potentially ... there's a whole range of chaos that can come through.'

Mr Lewis also said he was not planning for an early general election, telling the programme: 'I'm ready for the 2019 local elections, that's what I'm planning for, we will be ready for the 2022 general election.

'I don't think anybody watching this programme, having had two general elections and a referendum in the last three years, is looking for a general election or will thank the Government for that.'A gangland lawyer who acted as an undercover police informer claims she helped bring down hundreds of criminals and helped end the Gangland War.

Melbourne's gangsters were falling like flies when the lawyer decided she'd had enough and tried to end the war herself.

The lawyer, who can only be referred to as Informer 3838, supposedly feared that she might be charged as an accessory to crimes because she knew about them or were about to happen.

Before he was executed in jail, gangster Carl Williams feared the lawyer was turning crooks into snitches.

He was right.

Informer 3838 claims she got crooks to turn on feared Melbourne crime boss, Carl Williams (above)

The lawyer herself claims convinced a gangland goon to squeal on Williams all the while being pressured by the crime boss, and drug lord Tony Mokbel, to keep the snitch quiet.

INFORMER 3838'S TOP CRIMINAL BUSTS Karam, Higgs, Pasquale Barbaro and 33 co-accused for the largest ever seizure of ecstasy in the world Horty Mokbel, Milad Mokbel and their co-accused Witness B - who presented with a mountain of evidence against him lead to him becoming a witness for Police Faruk Orman for the murder of Victor Pierce Members of the Carlton Crew Advertisement

The witness went on to give evidence that would lead to convictions for the public executions of Williams loathed rival Jason Moran and his friend in 2003.

It would also lead to 'justice' for the shooting of Michael Marshall in front of his young son later that year.

The revelations come after the lifting of court-imposed gag orders that have until now protected the lawyer.

It has also led to the Victorian government ordering a Royal Commission.

Police chief Graham Ashton on Monday said the lawyer's actions could impact on at least 20 convictions.

Tony Mokbel and Mafia big wig Pat Barbaro are believed to be among them.

Tony Mokbel (pictured) of Lebanese descent, was jailed for 30 years in 2012 for a number of charges relating to 'The Company'

In bombshell revelations, a gangland lawyer fed up with police's inability to catch crooks turned rogue and went about destroying criminal organisations from the inside (pictured: left to right John Higgs, Rob Karam and Saviero Zirilli)

The revelations could result in figures from Melbourne's gangland war and notorious drug smugglers having their sentences slashed (pictured: Pasquale Barbaro under police surveillance with drug syndicate henchman, Jan Visser)

The lawyer is understood to have been asked to provide a 'Top 10' list of crooks she helped to bring down.

They included the convictions of Rob Karam, John Higgs and Barbaro and dozens of drug smugglers involved in one of the world's largest ecstasy hauls.

The infamous 'Tomato Tins' drug haul saw $440 million worth of ecstasy pills transported from Naples to Melbourne's dock organised by the Calabrian Mafia.

Major drug criminal and former horse racing identity Karam is serving a 35-year sentence for his involvement in the 'Tomato Tins' haul.

The convictions of 33 drug smugglers involved in one of the world's largest ecstasy hauls are at risk, including Rob Karam, John Higgs and Pasquale Barbaro (pictured: Barbaro Pasquale)

The infamous 'Tomato Tins' drug haul saw $440 million worth of ecstasy pills transported from Naples to Melbourne's dock organised by the Calabrian Mafia (pictured: John Higgs)

Major drug criminal and former horse racing identity Rob Karam is currently serving a sentence of over 35 years for his involvement in the 'Tomato Tins' haul

Tony Mokbel's brothers  Horty and Milad  were also among the list.

As was a gangland informer that can now only be known as Witness B.

Faruk Orman, who acted as the the getaway driver for the murder of Victor Peirce in 2002 was also among the list.

As were members of the infamous Carlton Crew, whose members at the time featured heavily in the original Underbelly television series.

Probably none are more famous than Tony Mokbel himself, who could walk free should he reduce the confidence in his conviction enough.

Mokbel was jailed for 30 years in 2012 for a number of charges relating to 'The Company' - the drug cartel he ruled for more than two decades and turned into the biggest in Australian history.

He fled from Melbourne while on bail during a trial for cocaine importation charges in March 2006, and was arrested by Greek police in Athens, Greece on 5 June 2007 and jailed for a minimum of 22 years.

Mokbel could be free as early as 2022 if his appeal is successful.

The lawyer also claims she is responsible for more than $60 million in seized properties and assets.

The barrister dealt with Melbourne underworld figure and crime boss Mick Gatto (pictured) and other members of the The Carlton Crew, a Melbourne criminal organisation

She is also believed to have provided information over the 2003 murder of self-proclaimed vampire gigolo and male prostitute Shane Chartres-Abbott.

Chartres-Abbott was shot dead outside his home in Reservoir on June 4, 2003, the same day he was due in court over a charge of rape.

Mr Ashton said people needed to understand the context of how the lawyer ended up becoming an informer.

'Melbourne was in the grip of what now is know widely as the Gangland Wars. Over the proceeding 12 months numerous people had been murdered - some in very public locations and high profile criminals were vying for control of drug operations that were inflicting serious harm on the Victorian community,' he said.

The lawyer is also believed to have provided information over the 2003 murder of self-proclaimed vampire gigolo and male prostitute Shane Chartres-Abbott (pictured: Shane Chartres-Abbott leaving County Court, May 2003)

Victor Pierce (pictured) was shot dead in a car parked opposite the Coles supermarket in Bay Street, Port Melbourne on May 1, 2002

Police fear the lawyer and her family may still be at risk of death should her identity ever be fully revealed.

'Nothing is more important to Victoria Police than the protection of human life - that is and always will be the absolute number one priority. And so I make no apologies for taking the legal actions that Victoria Police has taken in this matter.'

Gangland lawyer informer to become subject of Royal Commission amid claims the supergrass informed on her CLIENTS and drug dealers, bikies and mafia criminals could be freed

By Wayne Flower

A royal commission will be established in Victoria to look at the recruitment of police informants after news that a lawyer reported on her clients.

Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton has told a media pack the decision to allow the lawyer to be an informer from 2005-2009 would not be repeated.

'It is important to stress that Victoria Police has implemented substantial reforms since 2009 that have comprehensively changed the way that we manage informers,' he said.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has called a royal commission into a gangland lawyer

Mr Ashton faced the press after Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said the decision of the High Court released today called into question whether some convictions had occurred fairly and in accordance with law.

'Indeed what happened between 2005 and 2009 could not happen under our current policies,' Mr Ashton said.

The decision by the lawyer, who can only be referred to as Informer 3838, to turn informer saw some of Victoria's biggest villains wind up in jail.

It could also now see dozens of bikies and mobsters released from prison.

Mr Ashton said he still believed the officers involved at the time had 'acted in good faith'.

'And they can expect to have my continuing support,' he said.

Mr Ashton said people needed to understand the context of how the lawyer ended up becoming an informer.

'Melbourne was in the grip of what now is know widely as the Gangland Wars. Over the proceeding 12 months numerous people had been murdered - some in very public locations and high profile criminals were vying for control of drug operations that were inflicting serious harm on the Victorian community,' he said.

'The risk to the community at this time was significant. It was accordingly a desperate and dangerous time and a genuine sense of urgency was enveloping the criminal justice system, including police.'

Mr Ashton said police were concerned with the protection of the lawyer and her family, whom police feared would be murdered if word got out she was an informer.

'Nothing is more important to Victoria Police than the protection of human life - that is and always will be the absolute number one priority. And so I make no apologies for taking the legal actions that Victoria Police has taken in this matter.'

He said police still feared the lawyer could be a target if exposed.

Mr Ashton said police had been looking into the matter since 2012 when former police commissioner Neil Comrie was asked to conduct an independent review of its handling of the informer.

Victoria Police's own investigation into the handling of the lawyer ultimately led to an Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission inquiry into the looming scandal.

Mr Ashton said he was determined to maintain the confidence of the community.

'That is why Victoria Police will be co-operating fully with the royal commission,' he said. 'This will be a difficult process for Victoria Police in the short term.'

The bombshell revelations can finally be revealed after years of court-imposed gag orders protecting the lawyer were lifted.

The lawyer, who acted for gangsters including dead crime boss Carl Williams and Tony Mokbel, began working for police in mid-2003 when she met approximately six times with a Detective Sergeant of the Purana Taskforce, which was investigating Melbourne gangland crime.

Mr Ashton said at least 20 notifications are being sent by the Director of Public Prosecutions to criminals who were represented by or had dealings with the lawyer.

Two Commonwealth matters are also likely to have been impacted by the informer, he said.

A special taskforce named Landow has been established to deal with any legal ramifications associated with the scandal.

In a press conference earlier, Mr Andrews expressed his concern over the handling of the informer.

'The integrity of the criminal justice system is paramount and all people charged with crimes are entitled to a fair trial, no matter who they are,' Mr Andrews said.

Mr Andrews said that while these events took place many years ago, the public had the right to know that every part of the justice system acts fairly and lawfully at all times.

The royal commission will provide an interim report by July 1 next year and a final report by December 1.

The lawyer is understood to have been asked to provide a 'Top 10' of crooks she helped to bring down.

The list contains a swag of colourful Melbourne identities, including major drug traffickers Rob Karam and John Higgs and Tony Mokbel and his brother Milad.

Barbaro was pinged in the infamous $440 million Tomato Tins drug sting in 2007 which saw 32 Mafia figures jailed.

It is a case the gangland lawyer was keen for the gangsters to remain in the dark about her role in their convictions.

Victoria Police are believed to have arrested hundreds of people based on the information provided by the informer, with millions of dollars more taken in property and asset seizures.

The lawyer allegedly turned on her clients after becoming disillusioned with Victoria Police's inability to lock-up crooks.

The High Courts was scathing in its description of the fiasco.

In a decision published this morning, the court was critical of the lawyers alleged behaviour.

'(The lawyer's) actions in purporting to act as counsel for the Convicted Persons while covertly informing against them were fundamental and appalling breaches of EFs obligations as counsel to her clients and of EFs duties to the court,' it stated.

'Likewise, Victoria Police were guilty of reprehensible conduct in knowingly encouraging EF to do as she did and were involved in sanctioning atrocious breaches of the sworn duty of every police officer to discharge all duties imposed on them faithfully and according to law without favour or affection, malice or ill-will.'George H.W. Bush will join the ranks of former presidents Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses Grant, Franklin Roosevelt and Dwight Eisenhower and be taken in a presidential funeral train to his final resting place on Thursday.

The 70 mile rail journey will be the final mode of transport in an elaborate week long ceremony planned with military procession and involving the Air Force's flagship jet, Air Force One, which arrived in Houston Sunday and will fly Bush's body to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Monday morning.

The locomotive chosen for his final journey, to the site of his presidential library at Texas A&M University, was customized in Bush's honor in 2005 and the president marveled at its unveiling in October of that year - then asked to take it for a ride.

The train bears the number 4141 in Bush's honor. The train will escort the 41st president to his final resting place on the site of his presidential library on Thursday. Train is seen above Sunday being prepared

Texas A&M University said Saturday that the president's casket would be unloaded at a railroad stop near campus. A Twitter user shared a video Sunday ( astill from it is seen above) of the train blasting through Sweet Home, Arkansas, as it headed to Spring, Texas

The route that the train will take beginning at Spring and ending at College Station.

The Union Pacific locomotive, painted the same blue colors that adorned Air Force One during Bush's presidency was custom built for George H.W. Bush (pictured above at its unveiling in October 2005)

On that October day in 2005, the former president looked excited and smiled and said the word 'wow' as the locomotive was shown to him for the first time, according to the Star Tribune.

The Union Pacific locomotive, painted the same blue colors that adorned Air Force One during Bush's presidency, stands nearly 16 feet tall and bears the number 4141 in honor of the 41st president.

Bush was said to be fascinated by the train's mechanics and asked whether he could take it for a spin.

He was allowed to so do, after some brief training, and operated the locomotive for a couple of miles under the supervision of an engineer.

Bush had shown a passion for trains since he was a boy and enjoyed childhood travels with his family.

'We just rode on the railroads all the time, and I've never forgotten it,' the AP quoted Bush as saying at the time.

Bush said 'wow' when he saw the train. He had a passion for trains since he was a boy and enjoyed childhood travels with his family

Bush (pictured in the cab of the Union Pacific Locomotive 4141 was said to be fascinated by the train's mechanics and asked whether he could take it for a spin. The answer was yes

President George H.W. Bush's Custom-Built Locomotive 4141 The locomotive was custom-painted using the same blue colors that adorned Air Force One during Bush's presidency The Union Pacific locomotive stands nearly 16 feet tall It bears the number 4141 in President Bush's honor It was unveiled to him by Union Pacific in October 2005 At the locomotive's unveiling, the president stuck his head out of a window and flashed Texas A&M's familiar 'gig 'em' sign: a thumbs up The locomotive can travel up to 70 mph It will move slower than usual track speed on Thursday as it carries the former president's remains and will not make any stops along the way The train will travel to College Station and the president's casket will be unloaded at a railroad stop near campus Advertisement

'It's an opportunity for a large swath of the population to pay their final respects to someone who has done so much for our country,' Scott Moore, a Union Pacific senior vice president, said in a press release Saturday about the plans for Bush's funeral week. 'Having a train like this pulled by a locomotive specifically about this man is just really unprecedented.'

The route, as outlined by Union Pacific Railroad, will pass through Hufsmith, Pinehurst, Magnolia, Todd Mission, Stoneham, Navasota, Millican and Wellborn.

The locomotive, which can travel up to 70 mph, will move slower than usual track speed and will not make any stops along the way.

The Union Pacific locomotive, painted the same blue colors that adorned Air Force One during Bush's presidency and stands nearly 16 feet tall

The train can travel up to 70 mph. It will move slower than usual track speed on Thursday as it carries the former president's remains and will not make any stops along the way.A Twitter user shared a video Sunday ( astill from it is seen above) of the train blasting through Sweet Home, Arkansas, as it headed to Spring, Texas

The train ride will be the culmination of a long list of ceremonies honoring the life of the 41st president, who died Friday, aged 94.

Funeral proceedings begin at 9:45 a.m. on Monday with a departure ceremony from the George H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home on Bering to Ellington Field.

Around 10:30 a.m., there will be another departure ceremony at Ellington Field.

The former president's remains will then be flown in Air Force One to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, with an arrival ceremony to be held Monday afternoon.

Bush will be taken to the U.S. Capitol where he will lie in state in the rotunda with a guard of honor in attendance.

After some brief training Bush operated the locomotive for a couple of miles under the supervision of an engineer

He is expected to arrive at the Capitol building at 5:00 pm on Monday. The public will be welcome to pay their respects from 7:30 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday.

At the Capitol, Bush's remains will lie on a wooden structure that was constructed for Abraham Lincoln to lie in state after his assassination in 1865.

The casket will be guarded at each of its corners by a serviceperson, one from each of the branches of the armed forces.

A state funeral will be held on Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the Washington National Cathedral. Trump and first lady Melania will attend.

Afterward, Bush will be flown back to Houston to lie in repose at St. Martin's Episcopal Church before a service there at 10 a.m. Thursday.

Following the funeral service the train is scheduled to depart at 1 p.m. from the Union Pacific Railroad Westfield Auto Facility. It will be closed to the public.

Texas A&M University said Saturday that the president's casket would be unloaded at a railroad stop near campus. The funeral procession will then travel down George Bush Drive, with a brief arrival ceremony followed by a private interment. The campus will be closed Thursday.

Bush will be interned next to his wife and daughter Robin at 4:15 p.m.

The former president passed away Friday at the age of 94, surrounded by family members at his home in Houston, Texas.An 11-year-old northern Illinois boy couldn't resist testing the theory that when you place your tongue on a frozen metal pole, it'll stick.

Spencer Cline found out the hard way that it does. And it hurts. A lot.

He told The (Aurora) Beacon-News his inspiration came from where you'd expect: the movie 'A Christmas Story,' where one friend dares another to put his tongue on a frozen pole.

Spencer Cline, left, and his friend Cole Leeper, right, pose in front of the tongue-freezing metal pole that left Cline momentarily stuck in place

Spencer Cline imitated this famous scene from 'A Christmas Story,' a holiday classic. The character, Flick, played by Scott Schwartz, accepted a dare to stick his tongue to a metal pole

'I was just tempted to. I've seen the movie 'A Christmas Story,' which kind of inspired me,' the boy said.

'A Christmas Story' was originally released in 1983 and is a classic television staple during the holiday season. The film features the young protagonist Ralphie who dares his friend, Flick, to place his tongue on a frozen pole. leading to a similar crisis.

Spencer, a Sandwich Middle School student, was with a friend, Cole Leeper.

But the friend didn't have to dare him.

Skeptical about whether he would actually get stuck, Spencer decided to try it for himself, and immediately became stuck.

With his tongue stuck, Spencer panicked, struggling to communicate he was no longer joking around.

'Cole thought at first I was messing with him,' Spencer said. 'I told him no, it's really stuck, but he at first couldn't understand what I was saying.'

The friend searched for hot water, then called an ambulance. Spencer managed to free his aching tongue in the meantime.

'I was trying to get it off, but I wasn't pulling,' Spencer told the Beacon-News. 'I was being gentle and freaking out. Some of my taste buds came off onto the pole.'

Like Scott Schwartz's character (left), Spencer's tongue froze to the metal, but his friend Cole, unlike Peter Billingsley's Ralphie (right) ran to get him help

Emergency services arrived shortly after he was able to pull away from the pole.

'Every crew member there was reminded of the movie and laughed at that scene,' Sandwich Deputy Fire Chief Nathan King told the Beacon-News.

He and his tongue are expected to make a full recovery.

'Everyone heard at school and I keep saying, 'I'm just like the kid from the Christmas movie,'' Spencer acknowledged.Netflix is under investigation over its tax arrangements, it was reported last night.

The online streaming giant admitted its British accounts are under examination by HM Revenue and Customs.

Details of the investigation were disclosed in documents filed to American regulators, the Times reported.

Netflix Services UK Limited  the companys British subsidiary - employed only 14 people at its London office by the end of December, according to its most recent accounts. Its British accounts are under examination by HMRC [File photo]

It comes as big technology companies including Google and Facebook come under increasing scrutiny over their tax affairs.

Netflix has reported an increase in revenues and profits, according to accounts filed this week.

According to accounts filed in early October, Facebook boosted its UK revenues to 1.26bn for the year ending December 2017, up from 842m in the previous 12 months.

The companys corporate tax bill, which has long been scrutinised by MPs and consumer groups, increased from just 5.1m to 15.8m.

Facebook reduces its tax bill in Britain by routing a significant amount of revenue via its international headquarters in Dublin.

Chancellor Philip Hammond has previously threatened a new tax on tech companies, called a digital services tax, which could tax revenues. The Government has pledged to take a tougher stance on the international giants tax structures.

Netflixs main European office is located in Amsterdam, which has become a favourite of technology companies due to its soft tax rules.

Earlier this year, the Chancellor Phillip Hammond called for international action to ensure technology firms pay their fair share of tax around the world [File photo]

Netflix Services UK Limited  the companys British subsidiary - employed only 14 people at its London office by the end of December, according to its most recent accounts.

Its British arm declared revenues of 23.9m (26.9 million euros) and pre-tax profits of 1.12million (1.27 million euros).

Netflixs standard package for British users offers unlimited streaming for 7.99 a month. If the companys 9 million subscribers pay around this much per month, Netflix makes 71.9million from its British subscribers each month. This works out to be around 863m each year.

HMRC could be looking into the transfer pricing deal between the British arm and its Dutch parent, which determines the amount of revenues that Netflix reports in the UK. Netflix did not explain why HMRC was examining its tax arrangements.

A Netflix spokesman said: Netflix is contributing to the UK economy in many different ways. The provision of our service to UK-based subscribers results in significant amounts of VAT for the UK government: 20% of the price of every Netflix UK subscription.

'We are also investing hundreds of millions directly in the UK entertainment industry, with close to 40 projects underway this year including new seasons of The Crown and Black Mirror and co-productions with British broadcasters.

'More than 20,000 people are working directly on Netflix original productions in the UK, with this number set to grow as Netflix continues to invest in creating and licensing UK content.

'HMRC regularly audits the accounts of UK companies and were currently engaged with them on this standard review.'Every swimmer's worst fear was confirmed when a shark managed to enter a swimming enclosure at a Western Australia beach.

The 1.8 metre bronze whaler shark was seen lurking inside the enclosure on Saturday morning at Middleton Beach in Albany.

It took eight hours to remove the stubborn intruder and nobody seems to know how the shark got through the recently installed $200,000 net.

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Every swimmer's worst fear was confirmed on the weekend when a 1.8m Bronze Whaler shark (pictured)managed to enter a swimming enclosure at a Western Australia beach

It took eight hours to remove the stubborn intruder and nobody seems to know how the shark got through the recently installed $200,000 net (pictured)

'There was no obvious way the shark could have swam into the enclosure. How the shark came to be in the enclosure remains a mystery,' City of Albany's Executive Director Infrastructure and Environment Matthew Thomson said (mock up design of the net)

The shark net - designed to keep swimmers safe - cost the Western Australian government $200,000.

A week-long investigation has left both Albany Council and the builder of the experimental safe swimming barrier, Global Marine Enclosures, baffled.

A team of divers are just as perplexed after inspecting the 320 metre-long barrier, which drops in places to a depth of six metres.

'There was no obvious way the shark could have swam into the enclosure. How the shark came to be in the enclosure remains a mystery,' City of Albany's Executive Director Infrastructure and Environment Matthew Thomson told nine.com.au.

'There is no evidence the shark breached the enclosure so we are still looking at possible causes.'

A team of divers (left) are just as perplexed after inspecting the 320 metre-long barrier, which drops in places to a depth of six metres

To add to the list of unusual incidents the occur in the usually-safe swimming area, a dead 1.5 metre mako shark was found inside the enclosure last month.

'We suspect [the mako] was dumped in there as a closer inspection found the shark had sustained injuries consistent with fishing,' Mr Thompson said.

'The enclosure has been in place for almost three years and performing as designed so it is odd that we have found these two small sharks within the enclosure in the past two months.'

The net's three-year trial ends next year and its performance will be discussed by the council.

'We will be working with the manufacturer to review its performance before the council considers future options,' Mr Thomson said.

Global Marine Enclosures, the Perth-based company which built the barrier, has a second enclosure trial in operation at Quinns Beach in Perth which extends 85m offshore and runs 300m along the beach.

The WA State Government funded barrier, launched in January 2017, will be tested over a five-year period.

'We have no idea how the shark came to be inside the enclosure,' Edward Khoury, owner of Global Marine Enclosures said.Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday quashed a rumour stemming from his ill health that he had died and been replaced by a lookalike impostor from Sudan, his spokesman said.

Buhari tweeted on Sunday that he addressed the reports while at a meeting in Poland.

'One of the questions that came up today in my meeting with Nigerians in Poland was on the issue of whether I've been cloned or not,' Buhari said.

'The ignorant rumors are not surprising, when I was away on medical vacation last year a lot of people hoped I was dead.'

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Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari refuted claims he had been replaced by a lookalike impostor called Jubril

'It's real me, I assure you. I will soon celebrate my 76th birthday and I will still go strong,' Buhari said as he met with the Nigerian diaspora in Poland, where he is attending the UN COP24 climate summit in Katowice.

He was answering a question from the audience about repeated claims - spread via tweets, Facebook posts and YouTube videos - that the leader of Africa's most populous nation was an imposter called 'Jubril'.

'A lot of people hoped that I died during my ill health. Some even reached out to the Vice President to consider them to be his deputy because they assumed I was dead,' Buhari said, according to a statement signed by his spokesman Garba Shehu.

He referred to those who started the rumour as 'ignorant' and 'irreligious'.

Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, meet with Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari at the presidential villa in Abuja, Nigeria earlier this month

Buhari, who is seeking re-election next year, spent a large part of 2017 in London for treatment for a serious illness, which has never been revealed to the public.

A lack of specific information about the illness, along with Buhari's gaunt features and a reduction in public appearances have fed speculation about his well-being.

Claims about the president's identity emerged a month after Buhari returned from another lengthy medical trip to London.

Those pushing the rumour were known critics of the president and his government.

Buhari was elected President of Nigeria, Africa's largest economy and top oil producer, in 2015.

The former general became President in his fourth attempt at leadership since he was ousted from power in 1985.

Buhari was among military strongmen who dominated Nigeria decades ago. A military coup brought him to power in 1983, and another military coup toppled him two years later.Two alleged gunman have been accused of sending Brisbane into chaos, shooting at police before barricading themselves in an apartment complex for a six-hour siege, officers claim.

Police say one shot was fired at officers at about 11am local time when they tried to enter a unit with Special Emergency Response Team officers to investigate 'a number of property offences' - sparking terror in the surrounding streets.

With heavily armed officers set up on adjacent buildings, the two alleged gunmen, aged 33 and 29, surrendered peacefully at about 5pm.

They were taken into custody with the streets around the complex re-opened to traffic.

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Two alleged gunmen have ended a six-hour siege by surrendering themselves to police

The two men holed themselves up in a central Queensland apartment after Emergency Response Team officers investigated their unit

No-one was injured in the seige, police have confirmed, and officers did not fire back, though heavily armed officers were seen holed up in surrounding buildings.

Speaking to reporters outside the building at 2pm local time, Inspector Tony Ridge said armed police continued to negotiate with the men to come out.

The two men had rented the apartment on an overnight rate, it is believed.

Queensland Police issued an emergency declaration in Auchenflower, west of the city's CBD, after the initial incident at The Chasely Apartment Hotel late on Monday morning.

The alert was issued shortly after midday and encompassed the boundaries of Coronation Drive, Lang Parade, Dunmore Terrace and Chasely Street, back to Coronation Drive and Coronation Drive up to Land Street.

Two alleged gunman holed themselves up inside a central Brisbane apartment building putting surrounding streets into lockdown, police said. Pictured are Special Emergency Response Units on an adjacent building

A police officer is seen outside the Chasely Apartments Hotel in Auchenflower

To add further drama to the situation, the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland said they were hearing reports of a crash at Milton Road at around 2.30pm local time, which is set one road back from the lockdown area.

The Chasely Apartment Hotel is located at the junction of Coronation Drive and Chasely Street.

Inspector Ridge said: 'I can tell you at about 11am this morning detectives came to a unit to investigate a number of property offences.

'When they were gaining entry a shot was fired and the two male offenders barricaded themselves in the unit.

'The two male offenders are still negotiating with police.

'I ask that people be as patient as possible while the investigation is resolved.'

'No persons have been injured which is a good thing  well negotiate as long as we can to resolve this situation peacefully.'

A resident of the Chasely Apartments Hotel in Auchenflower looks out of his balcony

No-one has so far been injured, police have confirmed, and it is believed the two men had rented the apartment (building inset) on an overnight rate (circled in red initial emergency declaration zone)

A 'Code Brown' alert was issued for the nearby Wesley Hospital - which tells staff the site faces an 'external threat'.

The hospital has not been placed into lockdown, though, and the building is still accessible.

Buses operated by TransLink have been diverted around the area, and City Cats boats have been suspended between Milton and Regatta ferry terminals.

Passers-by posted pictures of the scene on social media, with one user saying it looked like the river had been completely shut down.A 30-year-old man has been charged after a body was discovered in a wheelie bin in a Brisbane suburb.

A police manhunt for four people wanted for questioning was conducted after the body was found about 7pm on Saturday.

The 30-year-old Yeronga man has been charged with one count of murder and will appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday.

Mystery surrounds the suspicious death of a man who was found stuffed in a wheelie bin tied shut with shoe laces

A 38-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman continue to assist police with their inquiries into the matter.

The fourth person sought by detectives, a 27-year-old woman, has been released without charge.

Police released pictures of the four people and have thanked the public for helping to locate them.

Police were only alerted to the man's body after local residents complained about a lingering stench to their real estate agent.

Officer's found the man's body stuffed inside the bin and tied up with shoe laces.

It is believed the body may have been in the bin for up to 10 days.

Joel Rivett, who had been staying at his friend's unit on Yeronga Street, decided to investigate the horrific smell.

When he lifted the lid to the bin, a swarm of flies hit him in the face. He told the real estate agent who contacted the police.

'I couldn't tell a dead body was in there,' he said.

Residents of the unit complex were shocked about the suspicious death, saying the area is usually quiet.

Officers made the grim discovery of the body at an apartment building in Yeronga in Brisbane's south on Saturday

Detectives are working to determine the cause of the man's death but have not yet formally identified him.

Officers spent most of Sunday as they continue to investigate the cause of death.

'Our investigations to date have suggested the deceased man's possible identity. We are working to confirm this and then to speak to family,' Detective Inspector Mark Thompson said.

'A post mortem examination will assist with this process. A crime scene remains in place at Yeronga and we expect to be processing the scene, including conducting ground searches with the SES, today and again tomorrow.'Those activities include the traditional rituals, folk wood sculpture, brocade weaving, epic recitals, photo and document exhibitions, and conferences on the preservation and promotion of gong culture legacy of ethnic races in the region, among others.Earlier, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc urged the administrations and people of regional localities to work harder to preserve and promote the value of their gong culture as well as other traditional practices and religious rituals.Addressing the opening of the festival in Pleiku city of Gia Lai province on November 30, the PM said that the gong culture is a treasure in the cultural heritage of the Vietnamese people and humankind as a whole.The PM highlighted the development vision for Tay Nguyen to become a hub of organic agriculture with biodiversity and rich culture tradition.Tay Nguyen must become a symbol of Vietnams tourism with its mysterious charm in the 21st century, he stressed.The festival draws nearly 1,200 artisans from five regional provinces - Kon Tum, Dak Lak, Dak Nong, Lam Dong, and Gia Lai.The two-day event aims to honour the unique value of Tay Nguyen gong cultural space as well as the diversity of traditional cultures of ethnic minorities in Tay Nguyen.Visitors to the event will have chance to enjoy street coffee festival and signature dishes of Tay Nguyen.The Cultural Space of Gong of Tay Nguyen was recognised by the UNESCO as a masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of the humanity in 2005. It is closely linked to the daily life of local people. Their belief systems form a mystical world where the gongs produce a privileged language between men, divinities and the supernatural world.Currently, Tay Nguyen has more than 10,000 sets of gongs, over half of which are kept in Gia Lai province.

VietnamplusA royal commission will be established in Victoria to look at the recruitment of police informants after news that a lawyer reported on her clients.

Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton has told a media pack the decision to allow the lawyer to be an informer from 2005-2009 would not be repeated.

'It is important to stress that Victoria Police has implemented substantial reforms since 2009 that have comprehensively changed the way that we manage informers,' he said.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has called a royal commission into a gangland lawyer

Drug lord Tony Mokbel could be released amid a scandal involving his lawyer

Mr Ashton faced the press after Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said the decision of the High Court released today called into question whether some convictions had occurred fairly and in accordance with law.

'Indeed what happened between 2005 and 2009 could not happen under our current policies,' Mr Ashton said.

The decision by the lawyer, who can only be referred to as Informer 3838, to turn informer saw some of Victoria's biggest villains wind up in jail.

It could also now see dozens of bikies and mobsters released from prison.

Mr Ashton said he still believed the officers involved at the time had 'acted in good faith'.

'And they can expect to have my continuing support,' he said.

The lawyer was registered as a police informer on 16 September 2005, and remained registered until at least 12 January 2009 (pictured: Barbaro Pasquale)

The bombshell revelations can finally be revealed after years of court-imposed gag orders protecting the lawyer were lifted (pictured: left to right John Higgs, Rob Karam and Saviero Zirilli)

Mr Ashton said people needed to understand the context of how the lawyer ended up becoming an informer.

'Melbourne was in the grip of what now is know widely as the Gangland Wars. Over the proceeding 12 months numerous people had been murdered - some in very public locations and high profile criminals were vying for control of drug operations that were inflicting serious harm on the Victorian community,' he said.

'The risk to the community at this time was significant. It was accordingly a desperate and dangerous time and a genuine sense of urgency was enveloping the criminal justice system, including police.'

Mr Ashton said police were concerned with the protection of the lawyer and her family, whom police feared would be murdered if word got out she was an informer.

'Nothing is more important to Victoria Police than the protection of human life - that is and always will be the absolute number one priority. And so I make no apologies for taking the legal actions that Victoria Police has taken in this matter.'

He said police still feared the lawyer could be a target if exposed.

Mr Ashton said police had been looking into the matter since 2012 when former police commissioner Neil Comrie was asked to conduct an independent review of its handling of the informer.

Victoria Police's own investigation into the handling of the lawyer ultimately led to an Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission inquiry into the looming scandal.

Mr Ashton said he was determined to maintain the confidence of the community.

'That is why Victoria Police will be co-operating fully with the royal commission,' he said. 'This will be a difficult process for Victoria Police in the short term.'

The bombshell revelations can finally be revealed after years of court-imposed gag orders protecting the lawyer were lifted.

The lawyer, who acted for gangsters including dead crime boss Carl Williams and Tony Mokbel, began working for police in mid-2003 when she met approximately six times with a Detective Sergeant of the Purana Taskforce, which was investigating Melbourne gangland crime.

Mr Ashton said at least 20 notifications are being sent by the Director of Public Prosecutions to criminals who were represented by or had dealings with the lawyer.

Two Commonwealth matters are also likely to have been impacted by the informer, he said.

A special taskforce named Landow has been established to deal with any legal ramifications associated with the scandal.

The lawyer, who acted for gangsters including dead crime boss Carl Williams and Tony Mokbel, began working for police in mid-2003 (pictured: Frank Madafferi)

In a press conference earlier, Mr Andrews expressed his concern over the handling of the informer.

'The integrity of the criminal justice system is paramount and all people charged with crimes are entitled to a fair trial, no matter who they are,' Mr Andrews said.

Mr Andrews said that while these events took place many years ago, the public had the right to know that every part of the justice system acts fairly and lawfully at all times.

The royal commission will provide an interim report by July 1 next year and a final report by December 1.

The lawyer is understood to have been asked to provide a 'Top 10' of crooks she helped to bring down.

It is understood hundreds of notifications are being sent to criminals who were represented by or had dealings with the high-profile gangland lawyer (pictured: John Higgs)

It is understood hundreds of notifications are being sent to criminals who were represented by or had dealings with the high-profile gangland lawyer (pictured: Pasquale Barbaro under police surveillance with drug syndicate henchman, Jan Visser)

Who the lawyer gave information about Karam, Higgs, Pasquale Barbaro and 33 co-accused for the largest ever seizure of ecstasy in the world Tony, Horty and Milad Mokbel Self-proclaimed vampire Shane Chartres-Abbott Mick Gatto and the Carlton crew Advertisement

The list contains a swag of colourful Melbourne identities, including major drug traffickers Rob Karam and John Higgs and Tony Mokbel and his brother Milad.

Barbaro was pinged in the infamous $440 million Tomato Tins drug sting in 2007 which saw 32 Mafia figures jailed.

It is a case the gangland lawyer was keen for the gangsters to remain in the dark about her role in their convictions.

The tomato tins used by the Mafia to import drugs into Australia

Boxes of tomato tins used by the Mafia to bring in drugs

A gangland lawyer who went undercover for police to snitch on her own clients could see dozens of bikies and mobsters released from prison

Victoria Police are believed to have arrested hundreds of people based on the information provided by the informer, with millions of dollars more taken in property and asset seizures.

The lawyer allegedly turned on her clients after becoming disillusioned with Victoria Police's inability to lock-up crooks.

The High Courts was scathing in its description of the fiasco.

In a decision published this morning, the court was critical of the lawyers alleged behaviour.

'(The lawyer's) actions in purporting to act as counsel for the Convicted Persons while covertly informing against them were fundamental and appalling breaches of EFs obligations as counsel to her clients and of EFs duties to the court,' it stated.

'Likewise, Victoria Police were guilty of reprehensible conduct in knowingly encouraging EF to do as she did and were involved in sanctioning atrocious breaches of the sworn duty of every police officer to discharge all duties imposed on them faithfully and according to law without favour or affection, malice or ill-will.'A truck driver brutally killed his lover by stabbing her multiple times as she lay in bed because she refused to kiss him goodbye.

Wayne Ashley O'Sullivan, 50, has been jailed for life for the murder of mother-of-six Michelle Reynolds, 46.

Ms Reynolds was stabbed in the throat and chest as she lay in bed in her home at Rosewood, near Ipswich, Queensland on on April 4, 2016.

Michelle Reynolds (pictured), a mother of six, was stabbed to death by her partner, her body was found in her bedroom in 2016

Ms Reynolds (pictured right) was killed by Wayne Ashley O'Sullivan (pictured left) as she lay in bed at an address in Leichhardt, a suburb of Ipswich, Queensland

The fatal blow severed an artery and vein in her neck, and also punctured Ms Reynolds' lung, slicing through to her back.

O'Sullivan delivered six more blows before the attack finished as she tried to defend herself.

O'Sullivan pleaded guilty to her murder in the Supreme Court in Brisbane on Monday.

Crown prosecutor Vicki Loury told the court when O'Sullivan dressed for work at about 4.30am he tried to kiss Ms Reynolds goodbye but she told him to 'get out' and pushed him away.

O'Sullivan went outside and grabbed his fishing knife from his tackle box before returning to the bedroom where he again tried to kiss Ms Reynolds.

'Again she said go away, just leave me and he said that he then put the knife in her,' Ms Loury said.

Ms Reynolds was stabbed in the throat and chest as she lay in bed in her home at Rosewood, near Ipswich, Queensland on on April 4, 2016

O'Sullivan then drove to his aunt's house, where he asked her to call an ambulance for Ms Reynolds

In the weeks prior to the murder, O'Sullivan had started working as a truck driver after being unemployed for three months

O'Sullivan then drove to his aunt's house, where he asked her to call an ambulance for Ms Reynolds.

'The defendant said there had been no previous history of violence between him and Ms Reynolds but they had been arguing over money. He said she accused him of not pulling his weight, of not contributing enough money to the household,' Ms Loury said.

'He said he was doing all he could and she would complain about him working on the weekend when he was doing so to provide money for her. She was, in his words, always at him.'

In the weeks prior to the murder, O'Sullivan had started working as a truck driver after being unemployed for three months.

The couple's financial position had just begun to improve when they received a letter doubling O'Sullivan's child support payments for his own five children

Justice David Boddice said O'Sullivan's actions had sentenced Ms Reynolds' children to lifelong 'vexation'

The couple's financial position had just begun to improve when they received a letter doubling O'Sullivan's child support payments for his own five children.

Justice David Boddice said O'Sullivan's actions had sentenced Ms Reynolds' children to lifelong 'vexation'.

'It appears financial pressures resulted in the relationship deteriorating to the point where you were regularly arguing and on the day in question it became too much,' he said.

O'Sullivan will spend 20 years in prison before being eligible for parole.One experienced snake wrangler got more than he bargained for when he turned up to find a 'psychotic' carpet snake 'having a bad day' lurking behind a family's fridge.

Steve Brown from Brisbane North Snake Catchers arrived at a home in Draper, north west of the city on Sunday.

After inspecting the back deck, he found a 'psychotic coastal carpet python' hiding under a fridge - but the encounter left him with a bloodied, punctured hand.

Steve Brown from Brisbane North Snake Catchers was left him with a bloodied, punctured hand (above) when he turned up to a home in Draper on Sunday to catch a carpet python

A carpet python was found hiding under a fridge (pictured) in the back deck of the house

'As soon as I went to touch it it turned and grabbed my fingers, chewed my fingers,' Mr Brown said

'As soon as I went to touch it it turned and grabbed my fingers, chewed my fingers,' Mr Brown told Yahoo7.

'All it wanted to do was bite.'

Although the snake wrangler tried to remove the fridge and move the python gently, the reptile struck back.

'Normally I get a few more photos but it was a psychotic carpet snake,' he posted on his Brisbane North Snake Catchers Facebook page.

Mr Brown described hearing the python puncturing his skin - a bite that left him with 30 tiny puncture wounds.

'They've got over a hundred teeth and can pack a bit of a punch,' he said.

Mr Brown described hearing the python puncturing his skin - a bite that left him with 30 tiny puncture wounds (pictured)

After inspecting the back deck, he found a 'psychotic coastal carpet python' hiding under a fridge (pictured)

'Anything it came in contact with it just wanted to chew. It was still having a crack inside the bag.'

It remains unclear why the snake was so aggressive as most carpet pythons are harmless if left alone.

'He was having a bad day or that's just its nature,' Mr Brown said.

He suggested that snakes may behave like this if they have been harassed or there is a food source nearby, but neither were factors in this case.

'It's a good reason to call a professional because there is the odd one that is just psychotic,' he added.

The snake was unharmed and Mr Brown was patched up with some bandaids by the home's young children.eBay is gearing up for its busiest night of the year, with Australian Christmas shoppers set to buy four gifts every second.

An estimated 2.6 million Aussies are predicted to visit eBay on Monday, with a hair and beauty product to be sold every two seconds, a toy every three seconds, a bottle of alcohol every 42 seconds and an iPhone every 90 seconds.

The online marketplace's traffic will peak between 8:30 and 8:45pm AEDT with a number of deals and special offers waiting to be snapped up.

An estimated 2.6 million Aussies are predicted to visit eBay on Monday

It is expected eBay will be visited by 1.8 million consumers on their mobile phones alone and users will peak for fifteen minutes between 9pm and 9.15pm AEDT.

'Aussies are getting a head start on Christmas, and this year, the busiest online shopping day is a full week earlier than the past few years,' head of retail insights for eBay Australia and New Zealand, Gavin Dennis, said.

'We're seeing people taking advantage of great deals throughout November and early December to take some of the stress out of the Christmas period,' he continued.

While the e-commerce site has goods to suit every budget it is expected 91 per cent of all items bought will be brand new.

eBay is taking 20 per cent off tech from brands like Sony and ASUS in the pre-Christmas sale, while there's 10 per cent off when consumers spend more than $120.

The online marketplace will peak site-wide between 8:30 and 8:45pm AEDT on Monday

Consumers were encouraged to use their desktops for shopping on Monday afternoon with eBay tweeting: 'Are you being paid to shop? Today desktop sales will peak between 2pm-3pm. Take a break from your spreadsheet and get a head start on your Christmas gift list now.'

Data analysts have rounded up the top locations of shoppers and are expecting Werribee in Victoria, Liverpool in New South Wales and Mackay and Toowoomba in Queensland to be the most active postcodes.

It's likely the Sydney CBD will be a very active postcode too.

'When you take into account the growth of our Click and Collect network, as well as free delivery and returns with an eBay Plus shopping membership, it's no surprise that people in central Sydney will be taking some time during the workday to make a start on Christmas shopping,' Mr Dennis said.

Data analysts have rounded up the top locations of shoppers and are expecting Werribee in Victoria, Liverpool in NSW and Mackay and Toowoomba in Queensland to be the most active

However, finder.com.au's Money Expert Bessie Hassan warns if a deal seems too good to be true then it probably is.

Hassan told The Courier Mail shoppers should take extra care while on the site and be cautious of shipping costs and delivery time.

'You might think you're getting a good deal, but an overseas shipping fee could outweigh the saving,' she said.Darren Geoffrey Lorke is on trial charged with the murder of Kevin Skeyhill (pictured), 51, at Tungkillo, in the Adelaide Hills, in 2017

A South Australian man fatally stabbed his neighbour after a 'lengthy and bitter' dispute about fencing and stormwater runoff, a court has heard.

Darren Geoffrey Lorke is on trial charged with the murder of Kevin Skeyhill, 51, at Tungkillo, in the Adelaide Hills, in 2017.

The Supreme Court jury heard that on the day of the killing Lorke had armed himself with a knife and hid in a bush until Skeyhill returned home with a friend.

Opening the trial on Monday, prosecutor Mark Norman SC said Lorke stabbed Skeyhill in the chest with a large camouflage hunting knife at the top of his driveway.

'Kevin Skeyhill collapsed and died at the scene,' he said.

Mr Norman said Lorke admitted he had stabbed and killed Mr Skeyhill but immediately and repeatedly claimed he was acting in self-defence.

Lorke fatally stabbed his neighbour after a 'lengthy and bitter' dispute about fencing (pictured) and stormwater runoff, a court has heard

He said Lorke told a paramedic on the phone 'I did it, I had to. I was protecting myself' and that two or three men were stalking him on his property in the dark.

But Mr Norman said the attack was deliberate and Lorke intended to cause harm.

'Is the reality that he was outside his property so quickly that night with his weapons because he was angry?' Mr Norman asked the jury.

'He was obviously quite willing to strike and strike repeatedly and forcefully when the moment came.'

Lawyers for Lorke said there would be no dispute that he stabbed Mr Skeyhill, but said he was acting in self-defence at all times.

The trial is expected to last two weeks, with the jury expected to visit the Tungkillo scene on Thursday.A Melbourne woman who died after breaking her leg on a family holiday wasn't examined properly by her surgeon, a court has heard.

Anna Bowditch, 34, broke her leg on while on holiday in Hawaii with her husband and young daughter on July 30, 2014, after she slipped over by a swimming pool.

She flew back home with her family on August 10 and went in for surgery on August 16, but died five days later after complications caused by undiagnosed deep vein thrombosis.

Anna Bowditch (left), 34, broke her leg on while on holiday in Hawaii with her husband and young daughter on July 30, 2014, having slipped over by a swimming pool

Ms Bowditch's family have long-believed her condition could have been spotted earlier and claim there were a number of treatment, communication and system failures that contributed to her death

Ms Bowditch had flown home on a cramped flight, with her leg propped up on a tray table and booked herself in for surgery at St Vincents Private Hospital as soon as possible after she landed.

Coroner Audrey Jamieson said that Ms Bowditch's surgeon, Audi Widjaja, failed to remove the bandage on her limb before she went into the operating theatre, which was not consistent with good practice.

The lack of a 'fulsome' examination meant he could not effectively compare the state of the limb when he did finally view it 'unencumbered', prior to surgery.

Ms Bowditch had flown home on August 10, with her leg propped up on a tray table (right) and booked herself in for surgery at St Vincents Private Hospitalo on August 16

'It is difficult not to characterise it as an opportunity lost to have possibly improved on the medical management of Anna Bowditch,' she said.

However, Ms Jamieson said on Monday she could not find the death was preventable and it may have occurred even if Ms Bowditch had not undergone surgery.

Ms Bowditch's family have long-believed her condition could have been spotted earlier.

'We would maintain that it was preventable,' lawyer Tom Ballantyne told reporters outside the Coroners Court.

Coroner Audrey Jamieson said that Ms Bowditch's surgeon, Audi Widjaja (pictured), failed to remove the bandage on her limb before she went into the operating theatre, which was not consistent with good practice

'There was a clear opportunity to make the diagnosis of the DVT and then institute preventative treatment.'

Mr Ballantyne said Ms Bowditch's family believe there were a number of treatment, communication and system failures that contributed to her death.

'They are satisfied with some of the criticisms that the coroner has made today, she's highlighted a number of clear failures in the treatment she received,' he said.

The family hope the case can 'serve as a lesson' for the medical profession, to ensure no one else has to suffer similar pain.

The coroner made 'no adverse comment' against the hospital or its staff, but recommended the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons uses the case as a learning tool for orthopaedic surgeons on how to rigorously examine a fractured limb.China has agreed to 'reduce and remove' tariffs below 40 per cent being charged on American-made cars, President Donald Trump has said.

Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to halt new tariffs during talks in Argentina on Saturday, following months of escalating tensions over trade.

In return, the US agreed not to raise tariffs on $200billion in Chinese products from 10 per cent to 25 per cent as it promised it would do on January 1.

Donald Trump boasted on Twitter that China will 'reduce and remove' tariffs on US-made cars after he held trade talks with Xi Jinping

Trump and Xi brokered a trade truce after months of sparring that will see America pause a planned rise in tariffs due in January, in return for China buying energy and industrial products

China has also agreed to purchase 'a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial' amount of energy and industrial products, the White House said.

Beijing will also begin purchasing agricultural products from US farmers 'immediately'.

The two sides also agreed to begin discussions on how to resolve issues of concern, including intellectual property protection, non-tariff trade barriers and cyber theft.

But the White House also said the tariff rise from 10 per cent to 25 per cent will go ahead if no concrete deal is reached within 90 days.

Tweeting on Sunday night, Trump said: 'China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%'.

He gave no details of how much the cut would be, or when it would come into force, and there was no immediate response from the Chinese government. Neither country had mentioned auto tariffs in their official read-outs of the Trump-Xi meeting.

U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said last week he was examining all available tools to raise U.S. tariffs on Chinese vehicles to the 40 per cent that China was charging on U.S.-produced vehicles.

Chinese state media gave a cautious welcome on Monday to the trade war truce.

But in an editorial, the official China Daily warned that while the new 'consensus' was a welcome development and gave both sides 'breathing space' to resolve their differences, there was no 'magic wand' that would allow the grievances to disappear immediately.

'Given the complexity of interactions between the two economies, the rest of the world will still be holding its collective breath,' it said.

Chinese shares, commodities and the yuan currency surged even as uncertainly remains about the deal.

China has also agreed to buy a 'very substantial' amount of agricultural products from America 'starting immediately', the White House said

Still, analysts cautioned the deal may have only bought some time for more wrangling over deeply divisive trade and policy differences.

They added that China's economy will continue to cool regardless under the weight of weakening domestic demand.

'This is a relief rally,' said Paul Kitney, chief equity strategist at Daiwa Capital Markets in Hong Kong.

The agreement 'is not a ceasefire, it's just a de-escalation. The existing tariffs are still having a negative impact on the Chinese economy, they haven't gone away'.

Widely read Chinese tabloid the Global Times, published by the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily, warned people had to have realistic expectations.

'The Chinese public needs to keep in mind that China-U.S. trade negotiations fluctuate. China's reform and opening-up's broad perspective recognises that the rest of the world does things differently,' it said in its editorial.

There are also differences in the Chinese and U.S. accounts of what was agreed.

The White House said China was 'open to approving the previously unapproved' deal for U.S. company Qualcomm Inc to acquire Netherlands-based NXP Semiconductors 'should it again be presented'.

However, Qualcomm said in a statement that it considers the matter closed.

Chinese state media has made only scant mention of the Qualcomm issue, which was not addressed by the Chinese government's top diplomat at a news conference in Buenos Aires on Saturday night.

In July, Qualcomm - the world's biggest smartphone-chip maker - walked away from a $44 billion deal to buy NXP after failing to secure Chinese regulatory approval, becoming a high-profile victim of the China-U.S. trade dispute.

There was also caution from the U.S. business community.

William Zarit, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, said the outcome of the meeting was 'as good as we could have expected' considering the complex issues involved.

'But probably the most challenging area to resolve - China's discriminatory economic policies based on state support and domestic market protectionism - needs to be addressed in order to level the playing field and have a sustainable commercial relationship based on fairness and reciprocal treatment.'The leading Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, Rep. Adam Schiff, says testimony provided by Ex-Trump lawyer Michael Cohen 'confirms that the president and his business are compromised.'

The California congressman was speaking on ABC's 'This Week' on Sunday.

Schiff said Cohen was now a witness in special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation.

The leading Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, Rep. Adam Schiff, said Ex-Trump lawyer Michael Cohen was now a witness in special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation

'There is now testimony, there is now a witness, who confirms that in the same way Michael Flynn was compromised, that the president and his business are compromised,' Schiff said.

Cohen pleaded guilty Thursday to lying to Congress, a charge that his lawyers said resulted in part from information he voluntarily provided Mueller's team in meetings governed by a limited-use immunity agreement.

He also admitted to making misstatements regarding the Trump organization's efforts to develop a branded property in Moscow to congressional committees investigating Russian influence on the 2016 election, including the House Intelligence Committee, according to court documents.

Schiff, says testimony provided by Cohen (pictured above) 'confirms that the president and his business are compromised'

Schiff is set to chair the intelligence committee when Democrats take control of the House next year.

'[W]hat the president was saying, what Michael Cohen was saying and others were saying about when this business deal ended was not true. And what's more, the Russians knew it wasn't true,' said Schiff of the proposed Moscow project.

'It means that the president, whether he won or lost, was hoping to make money from Russia, was seeking at the same time to enlist the support of the Kremlin to make that money,' Schiff added.

Schiff added that the testimony of former Trump campaign adviser Roger Stone should also be provided to special counsel Robert Mueller 'for consideration of whether perjury charges are warranted.'

Schiff, who will head up the House Intelligence Committee, accuses Cohen and President Trump of not speaking the truth about when a business deal ended with Russia

Schiff suggested that others may also potentially be in legal jeopardy for providing false testimony to the congressional committee. There's generally a high legal threshold to prove such a charge, but he said 'there are some people that I'm confident have met and exceeded that bar.'

Mueller's investigators are trying to determine whether Jerome Corsi and Stone had advance knowledge of WikiLeaks' plans to release hacked material damaging to Hillary Clinton's presidential effort.

U.S. intelligence agencies have said Russia was the source of that hacked material.

Documents drafted by Mueller's team as part of a potential plea deal with Corsi  which he has rejected  contained portions of emails he exchanged with Stone in the summer of 2016 about WikiLeaks.

'It means that the president, whether he won or lost, was hoping to make money from Russia,' Schiff said

In late July 2016, Stone emailed Corsi, asking him to get in touch with WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, who has been living in Ecuador's embassy in London since 2012, according to the documents. Stone said he wanted Corsi to try to obtain emails the group possessed about Clinton.

Both Stone and Corsi have denied any wrongdoing, and Stone has denied knowing Assange or being a conduit for WikiLeaks. He told The Associated Press last month that he had 'no advanced notice of the source or content or the exact timing of the release of the WikiLeaks disclosures.'

Corsi has said the email he sent Stone in reply  which accurately forecast that WikiLeaks would release derogatory information about Clinton campaign chairman John Podesta in October  was based on his own deduction and not the result of any inside information or a source close to the group.

Prosecutors from Mueller's office had offered Corsi a deal to plead guilty to a false statements charge, but he said he rejected the offer because he didn't knowingly mislead investigators. He now says he expects he will be indicted.Monday marks a return to school and some semblance of routine for thousands of children who lost their homes to a deadly wildfire in Northern California.

Schools in Butte County have been closed since November 8, when the Camp Fire ignited and quickly swept through the towns of Paradise, Concow and Magalia in what would become the nation's deadliest wildfire in a century. At least 88 people were killed and dozens remain unaccounted for.

Officials at the Paradise Unified School District aren't sure how many of their roughly 3,500 students will show up at makeshift schools that will temporarily replace the eight sites lost to the flames.

Officials announced that school would start up again on Monday. Paradise Elementary School (shown) was among the many schools that burned down during the Camp Fire on November 8

The Paradise Elementary School on November 12 was burned to the ground during the fire

Some families have left the state. Others are staying with friends or relatives across Northern California, too far to drive every day.

But nearly all the teachers are returning to provide a familiar and comfortable face to the children who are able to make it to class.

'It's important that the kids are able to stay together and have some sort of normalcy in the crazy devastation that we're having now,' said Jodi Seaholm, 40, whose third-grade daughter, Mallory, is about to turn nine.

Mallory underwent radiation in October to remove a recurrence of brain cancer and showed no fear, Seaholm said, but 'this situation with her house burning down has absolutely devastated her.'

Three weeks later, schools are opening up in temporary spaces, including the Chico Mall

Officials don't know how many of the 3,500 students will show up for class, though, as some are said to be living too far away to make the daily drive to school

Two neighboring school districts have allowed children from Paradise to take over available space. Kids who previously went to Paradise Elementary School will go to school in nearby Oroville, while children from Ponderosa Elementary School will be at a school in Durham.

Paradise High School survived but is inaccessible as the region remains evacuated.

The district doesn't have space yet for intermediate and high school classrooms, so for the 13 days before the holiday break begins those students will learn through independent study. They'll have access to online assignments and a drop-in center at the Chico mall where they can get help from teachers or see their classmates.

But academics will likely be secondary to dealing with trauma and reconnecting with friends, said Paradise High School Principal Loren Lighthall.

'They don't have their church, they don't have their school, they don't have their work, they don't have their friends, they don't have any of that stuff and we're asking them to write five-paragraph essays?' Lighthall said. 'It's just unreasonable at this point. We're going to do it, but we're going to be super flexible with what we require.'

Searchers have stopped their methodical search for victims in scorched cars and neighborhoods, but they remain on call if people believe they find bone fragments when they're allowed back into evacuation zones.

Marissa Nypl, 47, is living with her family at her husband's coworker's home in West Sacramento, which is 90 miles (145 kilometers) from her 10-year-old daughter's temporary school in Durham, until they can move into a rental home much closer. It's too far to drive every day, but Nypl wants to be sure her daughter is there to be with her peers on the first day back for what will likely be an important part of the healing process.

The isolation has been hard for the fifth-grader, a shy girl who was just starting to build a strong group of friends.

'They're going to need something that they feel like is still a normal part of life,' Nypl said, noting just about everything in town is gone. 'The school's going to be the only thing they have to latch onto to feel like something's still routine.'A Florida woman celebrating her 36th birthday in Costa Rica has vanished after texting her family that the Airbnb she was staying in was 'pretty sketchy'.

Carla Stefaniak traveled to Costa Rica with her sister-in-law April Burton last week and was due to fly home to Hallandale Beach alone Wednesday, the day after she dropped April off at the airport.

Carla checked into her 1pm flight, but never showed up to the airport the next morning, November 28.

Her family and friends say they have not heard from her since Tuesday at 8pm when she texted her sister-in-law from the Airbnb to say it was raining and the power was going out - a scene she described as 'sketchy'.

Now her family are on the ground in Costa Rica, working with local authorities and questioning any witnesses as they believe Carla has been kidnapped.

Carla Stefaniak went to Costa Rica with her sister-in-law to celebrate birthday and has been missing since November 27

Her sister-in-law April Burton (left, pictured together in Costa Rica) took a flight home the day before Carla (right) and they were last texting around 8pm on November 27

A spokesperson for the family said Carla, who works at a Miami insurance agency, dropped her sister-in-law off at the airport in San Jose on November 27 and returned the rental car.

She then took an Uber to an Airbnb about 30 minutes from the airport. It was the same Uber that drove Carla sightseeing and shopping for the afternoon.

According to family spokesperson Katie Gardner, Carla texted her brother's wife updates and photos throughout the afternoon until she got back to the Airbnb.

'Last time we heard from her was 11/27 around 8pm when she said it was raining crazy and power went out,' April said in an Instagram post in a desperate plea to find her sister-in-law.

'She continued with ''It's pretty sketchy here,''' April said.

April then said she texted Carla to wish her a happy birthday at midnight but received no response.

The next day, April got a call from Carla's friends saying they had wished her a happy birthday but also got no response.

That's when they discovered Carla had never boarded her flight back home.

Carla was last seen online around 9pm the night before her flight, she is pictured (left) at the airport heading to Costa Rica and (right) enjoying her vacation days before her disappearance

Carla never showed up to her 1pm flight the next day, November 28

The Stefaniak family thinks Carla was kidnapped and has traveled to Costa Rica to search for her. Pictures is Carla with her mother and two brothers

Carla's brother and April's husband Mario Caicedo has flown to Costa Rica where he's been working with law enforcement agency Organismo de Investigation Judicial to find his sister.

'She never got back online to check all these birthday wishes,' he said. 'This is one more thing telling us that she was abducted.'

The Stefaniak family say they have spoken to the Uber driver, Airbnb host and security guards who all say they saw Carla leaving the Airbnb with her luggage around 5am and getting into an unknown car.

'The Uber driver arrived around 8am to pick up Stefaniak but could not find her,' Gardner said. 'However, her family says the story does not make sense since her flight was not until that afternoon and the airport was only 30 minutes away.'

According to NBC News, Carla had a FaceTime call with a friend and mentioned that she might ask a security guard at the Airbnb to buy her water because of the storm.

She was last seen online on WhatsApp at 8.20pm before her phone died at 9pm. She has not been online or posted since.

Carla moved to Tampa from Venezuela in 2000 and then settled in Miami in 2012.Deputy Chairman of Dak Lak Province Nguyen Hai Ninh said that the inauguration of the museum is expected to start the coffee festival 2019. The architectural museum has design and distinguishing characteristic of Ede ethnic minority peoples culture.





Many coffee museums were established in the world including in Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, Germany, England and Japan.

Nevertheless, the museum in the Southeast Asian country is unique with more than 10,000 exhibits which were brought from coffee museum Jens Burg in Germany and a part of the hub of global coffee.

In October, 2018, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development proposed 15 national major agricultural products including coffee.

The Southeast Asian country ranks the second coffee exporter just behind Brazil; however, its annual export revenue reaches $4 billion because Vietnam sells rude coffee meanwhile global coffee value is estimated to be over $100 billion yearly.

By DANG LAM - Translated by UYEN PHUONGA man accused of murdering his drinking buddy by strangling her at his home in Western Australia's south was seen splashing around in mud and talking nonsensically, then wandering naked on a highway after the killing.

Ian Dennis Jones, 52, admits he caused the death of mother-of-three Tanya Leah Beattie at his house in Eaton, north of Bunbury, in November 2016, but argues he is not guilty because he was of unsound mind.

The Supreme Court of WA heard on Monday the 41-year-old victim and Jones were seen arguing and fighting outside his house on the night she died, and a neighbour heard a scream about four hours later.

Ian Dennis Jones is accused of strangling mother-of-three Tanya Leah Beattie (pictured) to death at his home in 2016. He argues he is not guilty because he was of unsound mind

The next day, after being seen splashing in mud, he went to Boyanup Tavern about 20km away, where he 'generally caused a nuisance' before walking naked down South Western Highway, prosecutor Brett Tooker said.

Police were called and Jones was taken to hospital.

Jones' mother then went to his house to lock up and found Ms Beattie's body.

Mr Tooker said she had a blood alcohol level of 0.269 and traces of drugs in her system, but Jones was not intoxicated.

He had a long history of mental illness, including numerous hospitalisations and a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia, and had earlier in 2016 attempted to choke his sister.

Jones is being tried before a judge sitting without a jury in the Supreme Court of WA (pictured)

He'd sought at least one of the hospitalisations himself and stayed overnight but was discharged because he was assessed as having no acute symptoms.

Mr Tooker said Jones' behaviour had been bizarre in the month before the killing and he had formed the belief Ms Beattie was a member of the Coffin Cheaters bikie gang, who he blamed for the death of his son in 2002.

In statements read out to the court, the victim's husband Danny Beattie said his wife had been a registered nurse but became an alcoholic and started using drugs including methamphetamine after she lost her job, having been accused of stealing morphine.

The court heard that Jones was seen splashing in mud before wandering along the South Western Highway (pictured) naked the day after he allegedly killed Ms Beattie

Mr Beattie wrote she had initially described Jones as a 'cool guy' but eventually said 'he got spooky', was 'a nutter' and had killed two people at his house, so she decided to avoid walking past the property on the way to visit her friend Jo.

Mr Tooker said the state conceded Jones lacked at least one of three mental capacities defined under a section of the criminal code that covers insanity.

Jones is being tried before a judge sitting without a jury.An ABC journalist wearing a short sleeved blouse claims she was kicked out of parliament on Monday for showing 'too much skin'.

Patricia Karvelas tweeted about the 'insane' incident, saying she had be been asked to leave Question Time in Canberra.

'I have just been kicked out of #QT because you can allegedly see too much skin. His insane #auspol,' she wrote.

Patricia Karvelas (pictured) tweeted about the 'insane' incident, saying she had be been asked to leave Question Time in Canberra

'I have just been kicked out of #QT because you can allegedly see too much skin. His insane #auspol,' she wrote (not the outfit)

The journalist's post was accompanied by a photo of her outfit.

Speaker Tony Smith was called on by Labor to investigate the incident at the end of Question Time. He agreed and will return with a report.

'I politely put my case that these are short sleeves. I left when the attendant insisted. I think the rule is out of step with contemporary standards,' Ms Karvelas tweeted.

Parliament, the House, and the Gallery all comply to a certain dress code.

In the past, male journalists have been asked to leave the press gallery for not wearing a suit jacket.

Social media users were quick to defend Ms Karvelas's outfit and expressed their outrage over the matter.

'Dear god. You've got ARMS???? Get out now,' one sarcastically responded.

'What about your right to bare arms?' another wrote.

'What a joke,' another user wrote.

Some users pointed out that just last week former Foreign Minister Julie Bishop attended parliament in a pink sleeveless dress and was not kicked out

'Truly?? This is worth getting legal over. An insult to the free press - and it's discriminatory. FFS,' another responded.

Some users pointed out that just last week former Foreign Minister Julie Bishop attended parliament in a pink sleeveless dress and was not kicked out.

'Talk to Julie Bishop. She shows her well-conditioned arms all the time. As is perfectly fine,' one person wrote.

'Kicked out for showing your arms? Um. Hello? Julie Bishop anyone,' another wrote.President Donald Trump said Monday that U.S.-China relations 'have taken a BIG leap forward' after he and President Xi Jinping agreed on a trade truce, using the name of a Communist Party of China farm reform program that killed tens of millions of people 60 years ago.

The Great Leap Forward was a cornerstone of Chairman Mao Zedong's move toward a socialist economy by requiring farmers to 'collectivize' their property and operations, and by forcing farm workers to take industrial jobs.

Upsetting centuries of agrarian tradition and moving farmers to factory work led to a famine that killed tens of millions of Chinese. Government officials tried to reverse the trend by instituting farm production quotas, executing some who failed to meet minimum targets. China's economy was devastated.

Trump appeared to be unaware of the significance of his words on Monday, tweeting: 'My meeting in Argentina with President Xi of China was an extraordinary one. Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward! Very good things will happen.'

President Donald Trump said Monday that U.S.-China relations had taken a 'BIG leap forward,' appearing to name-check a communist farm-reform program from 60 years ago that killed tens of millions of people in a resulting famine

Trump appeared to be unaware of the significance of his words on Monday, tweeting: 'Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward! Very good things will happen'

Chairman Mao Zedong 'collectivized' China's farms in 1958 and forced agrarian people to work in factories, resulting in a massive famine

'We are dealing from great strength, but China likewise has much to gain if and when a deal is completed. Level the field!' he wrote.

Minutes later, the president specifically tied his self-congratulation to what he predicted will be a dramatic increase in farm exports from the U.S. to China.

'Farmers will be a a very BIG and FAST beneficiary of our deal with China. They intend to start purchasing agricultural product immediately. We make the finest and cleanest product in the World, and that is what China wants. Farmers, I LOVE YOU!' he tweeted.

historians' estimates of the number of Chinese killed by the famine that resulted from the Great leap Forward range from 18 million to 55 million.

Buyers and analysts quickly pointed out on Monday that China's tariffs on U.S. farm produce are still in place, mostly 25 per cent duties on soybeans, corn, sorghum and wheat.

The 'deal' appeared on Monday to be little more than a cease-fire in what had become a protracted tariff war, with Trump and Xi agreeing pull back from an all-out trade war that was threatening world economic growth and had set global investors on edge.

Under the 'Great Leap Forward,' Chinese peasants were fored to 'collectivize' and rapidly industrialize their farming, removing profit incentives and replacing a delicate system with state-imposed chaos

One result was food shortages that led to street riots in cities and mass-famine in the countryside

Trump claims U.S. operations like this North Carolina soybean farm will see more orders from China but Beijing hasn't yet lowered its tariffs

Trump and Xi Jinping met for a bilateral meeting at the G20 Summit on Saturday in Buenos Aires, Argentina

This year Trump imposed an import tax of 25 percent on $50 billion in Chinese products, then hit an additional $200 billion worth of goods with 10 percent tariffs.

Those 10 percent tariffs were scheduled to ratchet up to 25 percent on Jan. 1 if the U.S. and China failed to reach an agreement to at least postpone that move.

In Buenos Aires, Trump agreed to delay the scheduled U.S. tariff increase for 90 days while the two sides negotiate over the administration's complaints related to how Beijing systematically steals trade secrets and forces the U.S. and other foreign countries to hand over sensitive technology as the price of admission to the vast Chinese market.

In return, China agreed to buy what the White House called a 'not yet agreed upon, but very substantial' amount of U.S. products to help narrow America's gaping trade deficit with China.

A newspaper featuring a front page story about the meeting between Trump and Xi was seen on a newsstand in Beijing on Monday

Trump also boasted Monday morning that China will 'reduce and remove' tariffs on U.S.-made cars

If the Chinese did eventually increase such purchases, it would be warmly welcomed in the U.S. Farm Belt, where producers of soybeans and other crops have been hurt by Beijing's retaliatory tariffs.

Trump tweeted late Sunday that 'China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%.' There was no Chinese announcement about possible tariff cuts, and the Ministry of Commerce in Beijing didn't immediately respond to questions.

Beijing cut import duties on foreign autos to 15 percent in July but added a 25 percent penalty for U.S.-made vehicles the following month in response to Trump's tariff hikes.An insurgent underdog no more, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders is laying the groundwork to launch a bigger presidential campaign than his first, as advisers predict he would open the 2020 Democratic presidential primary season as a political powerhouse.

A final decision has not been made, but those closest to the 77-year-old self-described democratic socialist suggest that neither age nor interest from a glut of progressive presidential prospects would dissuade him from undertaking a second shot at the presidency.

And as Sanders' brain trust gathered for a retreat in Vermont over the weekend, some spoke openly about a 2020 White House bid as if it was almost a foregone conclusion.

'This time, he starts off as a front-runner, or one of the front-runners,' Sanders' 2016 campaign manager Jeff Weaver told The Associated Press, highlighting the senator's proven ability to generate massive fundraising through small-dollar donations and his ready-made network of staff and volunteers.

Front-runner? Bernie Sanders' former campaign chief says he would 'a front-runner or one of the front-runners' if he runs for the Democratic nomination

Weaver added: 'It'll be a much bigger campaign if he runs again, in terms of the size of the operation.'

Amid the enthusiasm - and there was plenty in Burlington as the Sanders Institute convened his celebrity supporters, former campaign staff and progressive policy leaderss - there were also signs of cracks in Sanders' political base.

His loyalists are sizing up a prospective 2020 Democratic field likely to feature a collection of ambitious liberal leaders - and not the establishment-minded Hillary Clinton.

Instead, a new generation of outspoken Democrats such as Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker and California Sen. Kamala Harris are expected to seek the Democratic nomination.

All three have embraced Sanders' call for 'Medicare for All' and a $15 minimum wage, among other policy priorities he helped bring into the Democratic mainstream in the Trump era.

Acknowledging the stark differences between the 2016 and 2020 fields, Hollywood star Danny Glover, who campaigned alongside Sanders in 2016, would not commit to a second Sanders' candidacy when asked this weekend.

'I don't know what 2020 looks like right now,' Glover said before taking a front-row seat for Sanders' opening remarks. 'I'm going to support who I feel to be the most progressive choice.'

One of Sanders' chief supporters from neighboring New Hampshire, former state senate majority leader Burt Cohen, acknowledged that some people worry Sanders is too old for a second run, although that's not a major concern of his. Like Glover, he's not sure if he'll join Sanders a second time.

'There are other people picking up the flag and holding it high, and you know, it could be Bernie, but I think there are other people as well,' said Cohen, who did not attend the Vermont summit. 'It's not 'Bernie or bust.' That's certainly not the case.'

Another high-profile Sanders supporter who was in attendance, Cornel West, described the Vermont senator as 'the most consistently progressive one out there,' suggesting that some would-be 2020 candidates have adopted Sanders' words, but maintained ties to Wall Street and 'militarism.'

Still, West conceded that none of likely 2020 candidates 'have as much baggage' as Clinton did.

Perhaps the most important member of Sanders' network, wife Jane O'Meara Sanders, said Democrats may be embracing Sanders' 'bold progressive ideas' on health care and the economy in some cases, but there's need to go further on issues like climate change, affordable housing and student debt.

Whether her husband will lead the debate as a presidential candidate in 2020, she said, remains unclear. O'Meara Sanders noted that one question above all others would guide their decision: 'Who can beat Donald Trump?'

'That has to be the primary goal. To win. We think you win by a very strong progressive commitment,' she told AP. When asked if Sanders could win in 2020, she said 'every single poll' showed that Sanders would have beaten Republican nominee Donald Trump two years ago.

Too liberal for Bernie to beat? Kamala Harris and Elizabeth Warren are both embracing positions which were solely championed by Sanders in his race against Hillary Clinton

O'Meara Sanders also downplayed the grueling personal demands of a presidential campaign, something that historically has led some other spouses to pressure their husbands to avoid the white-hot presidential spotlight more than once.

'It was extremely inspiring meeting all the people all over the country,' she said of the 2016 campaign. 'And what might be difficult for me is not as important as what might be difficult for them and whether or not we can help them with those difficulties.'

'It's not about us,' O'Meara Sanders added. 'It's about what's right for the country.'

Despite signs pointing to a 2020 run, Sanders has given himself a clear escape hatch.

Weaver, like Sanders himself in a recent interview, suggested that the senator would step aside if he believes another candidate has a better shot at denying Trump a second term. There are no clear indications from Sanders or those closest to him, however, that he currently has that belief.

'I know they haven't announced, but it sort of seems like that's what's happening,' said John Cusack, another actor invited to the weekend summit. Asked about his preference for 2020, he called Sanders 'the only real progressive candidate out there.'

'All of the sudden, what was once fringe politics is now mainstream. Don't get me wrong, it's great that (Texas congressman) Beto O'Rourke and all these young candidates are running on the People's Summit and progressive movement platform, but let's not forget who broke us through.'

'If he runs again, I'll be on board,' Cusack said.A carer accused of sexually assaulting an elderly patient with at an aged-care facility south-west of Sydney will fight the allegation after appearing in court.

Michael William Schuppe, 59, was granted bail when he appeared at Parramatta Bail Court via videolink on Sunday, charged with aggravated sexual assault over the alleged incident in October.

Police allege that Schuppe inserted his right-hand middle finger inside a female patient, 89, while he and another carer were helping her prepare for bed at Queen Victoria Memorial Home in Picton on October 8.

Michael Schuppe (pictured) has been charged with the alleged aggravated sexual assault of an elderly nursing home patient. He will reappear in court in January

His alleged victim has 'extreme dementia' according to court documents seen by AAP.

The two carers had just lifted the woman from her wheelchair using a sling and given her a sponge bath when Schuppe carried out the assault while fitting the woman with a night pad, court documents stated.

Schuppe's co-worker allegedly remembers the woman yelling 'don't do that'.

The alleged incident occurred at the Queen Victoria Memorial Home (pictured) in Picton

But the co-worker didn't come forward initially - rather she marked the date on a calendar with the letters 'M.S.C.V' which police allege is code referring to the incident.

Weeks later, on November 29, the coworker reported that Schuppe was 'doing bad things' around the home and he was suspended.

Police arrested him two days later at his home in Eschol Park.

He sat silently in a tiny room at Amber Laurel correctional centre in Sydney's west during his court appearance on Sunday, shaking his head as police prosecution warned that he was a danger to vulnerable people.

Michael Schuppe (pictured) was arrested at his home on Saturday

Despite no criminal history or violent convictions, the prosecution said, a custodial sentence would be 'inevitable' if he were found guilty.

But Schuppe's lawyer told the court he 'strenuously denied' the allegation and had a spotless record - he also cared for his own mother as a high-need patient.

His suspension from work, the court heard, meant vulnerable elderly people were not at risk.

The court agreed to grant his bail as long as he did not look for work in the aged care sector and reports daily to police.

Schuppe will appear in Picton Local Court in January 22.

Police allege that Schuppe inserted his finger inside a female patient, 89, while he and another carer were helping her prepare for bed at Queen Victoria Memorial Home (pictured) in OctoberPopulists with a 'Make Spain Great Again' slogan have become the first far-right party to win seats in a Spanish regional parliament since the Franco dictatorship.

With more than 99 percent of the votes counted late Sunday, Vox took 12 seats, handing a majority to right-wing parties in Andalusia, southern Spain, a region governed by Socialists for more than three decades.

The result means that Vox, which opposes illegal immigration and Catalan independence, has exceeded even the most optimistic poll predictions which had forecast a possible five seat win.

Populists with a 'Make Spain Great Again' slogan have become the first far-right party to win seats in a Spanish regional parliament since the Franco dictatorship. Pictured is party leader Santiago Abascal

With more than 99 percent of the votes counted late Sunday, Vox took 12 seats, handing a majority to right-wing parties in Andalusia, southern Spain, a region governed by Socialists for more than three decades

'The Andalusians have made history... and got rid of 36 years of socialist rule,' said Vox leader Santiago Abascal.

The Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) scored the worst result in its history winning 33 seats.

Its potential ally on the left Adelante Andalusia (Forward Andalusia) picked up only 17 seats, depriving the left of a majority, while the conservative Popular Party (PP) won 26 seats and the Ciudadanos liberals took 21 seats.

French far-right leader Marine Le Pen sent 'warm congratulations' in a tweet to her 'Vox friends'.

The poll had been seen as the first of a series of tests for Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

It was Sanchez's first electoral test since taking office in June after winning a surprise vote of no-confidence in parliament against the previous PP government of Mariano Rajoy over a corruption scandal.

His Socialists had ruled Andalusia since 1982.

The vote, however, is a mere foretaste of the coming 'super election year': 2019 will see municipal, regional and European elections and perhaps even an early general election to coincide with the other May polls.

All eyes will now be on Vox which can try to use Andalusia as a springboard in next year's elections.

If it did win a seat in the next general election, it would be the first time a far-right party had had a presence in Spain's lower house of parliament since 1982.

In all, 6.5 million were eligible to vote in the ballot in Andalusia, the country's most populous region and among its poorest.

The result means that Vox, which opposes illegal immigration and Catalan independence, has exceeded even the most optimistic poll predictions which had forecast a possible five seat win

Spain's far-right VOX party leader Santiago Abascal and regional candidate Francisco Serrano celebrate results after the Andalusian regional elections in Seville

The PSOE's Susana Diaz - who last year unsuccessfully challenged Sanchez for the party leadership - had been seeking to retain the regional presidency while also giving Sanchez and the national party a fillip.

But Vox, which has used the slogan 'make Spain great again, sought to throw a spoke in their wheels by adding its voice to traditional conservative forces led by the PP and market-friendly Ciudadanos, which has in recent years challenged the PP for the mantle of Spain's dominant liberal force.

'These elections are key as a first step in the removal of Pedro Sanchez' and the PSOE from the government, PP leader Pablo Casado told Radio COPE on Friday.

-Casado said a defeat in its traditional southern fiefdom would render the PSOE's attempt to retain power nationally 'unsustainable.' The Socialists are already walking a tightrope given they hold just 84 seats in the 350-seat national assembly.

Both the PP and Ciudadanos had said during the campaign that if rightwing forces together won a majority of seats they would not rule out accepting support in the regional chamber from Vox.

Vox's campaigning had mainly been against illegal immigration and any decentralisation of powers from Madrid.

Pablo Iglesias, leader of the far-left Podemos party, called on all leftist groups to mobilise 'to defend liberties, social justice, fraternity and ultimately democracy'.

Diaz meanwhile called for 'stability' as she ended her campaign, warning voters against forces of the right and far-right that 'want to take us backwards'.British veterans could face allegations of wrongdoing from operations in the 1950s, the Ministry of Defence's former legal chief has warned.

Soldiers who served in Malaysia and Cyprus more than half a century ago could be tried if the government fails to introduce curbs, it is claimed.

The legal action could be launched after an attempt by 40,000 Kenyans to sue the government for alleged maltreatment.

The Mau Mau uprising, also called the Kenyan Emergency, was a military conflict which took place in British Kenya between 1952 and 1960.

The case was dismissed by the High Court last week, but critics have raised concerns after one of the longest civil trials in legal history that cost the taxpayer millions of pounds.

The legal action could be launched after an attempt by 40,000 Kenyans to sue the government for alleged maltreatment during the Kenyan Emergency. Pictured: Members of the Devon Regiment pictured in 1954 as they search home looking for Mau Mau soldiers during the conflict

The veterans that would be tried could now be in their 80's and experts say the process would be 'immensely stressful to the former soldiers involved.'

Jonathan Duke-Evans, who ran the MoD's litigation policy unit until last year said the Kenya case had raised concerns.

He told The Times that he feared 'large numbers of new claims from other end-of-empire operations many decades ago would suddenly emerge from places like Cyprus and Malaysia, and that the evidence to defend the cases would no longer exist.'

He added: 'It's almost impossible to guarantee fair outcomes in cases which arose out of military operations so many years ago, and the process can be immensely stressful to the former soldiers involved.

Jonathan Duke-Evans, who ran the MoD's litigation policy unit until last year said the Kenya case had raised concerns, and could trigger more maltreatment claims from other conflicts. Pictured: British police examine suspects for the seven initiation cuts on the body that mark a member of the Mau Mau secret society, on November 24, 1952

'I would like to see steps taken to prevent this kind of legal harassment of veterans decades after the events concerned when it is so difficult to establish the truth.'

Veterans of campaigns in Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan are already facing criminal allegations.

The head of the military General Sir Nick Carter, vowed to clamp down on claims. Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has also set up a task force to protect veterans from historical allegations.

Military chiefs have called on Prime Minister Theresa May to introduce a statute of limitations to prevent prosecutions for crimes committed

Writing in the Times, Mr Duke-Evans, along with chairman of the foreign affairs committee Tom Tugendhat, and Richard Ekins and Julie Marionneau of centre-right think tank the Policy Exchange, said that the pursuit of allegations against UK forces 'represents a failure on the part of the British state to protect those it asks to serve.'

They welcomed the decision by the High Court to dismiss the group litigation over allegations of abuse during the Kenya Emergency in the 1950s.

They wrote: 'While some abuses undoubtedly took place [by Britons during the Kenya Emergency], the UK has always denied legal liability for wrongdoing.

'In view of the scale of the litigation, if the claims had been successful, damages against the government might have run to hundreds of millions of pounds.'

The Ministry of Defence have been approached for comment.Attorney General Geoffrey Cox admitted tonight the UK cannot unilaterally exit the Irish border backstop - prompting claims the Brexit divorce is a 'trap'.

Mr Cox told MPs if the backstop ever comes into force there will have to be a trade deal or proof the EU is acting in bad faith to escape it.

To heckles of 'it's a trap', Mr Cox told MPs the Brexit divorce deal contained 'no unilateral right for either party to terminate'.

Insisting he would answer questions 'candidly', Mr Cox said the Britain was 'indefinitely committed' to the backstop if it ever came into force - but said that was a political not a legal question.

Short of agreeing a full UK-EU trade deal, the only way to break the Irish backstop is to convince a tribunal there is 'clear evidence' that the EU is deliberately avoiding finalising a trade agreement.

Mr Cox said he would have preferred a unilateral exit but said he was 'prepared to lend my support' to take the 'calculated risk' because 'I do not believe we will be trapped in it permanently' - insisting it could be challenged in court if needed.

Many MPs believe the government is holding back even more damaging material in the full written advice from Mr Cox.

Shadow solicitor-general Nick Thomas-Symonds told the Commons: 'The Government does not want MPs to see the full legal advice for fear of the political consequences.'

Mr Cox - an eminent QC and strident Brexiteer - was a key figure in forcing Theresa May's deal through the Cabinet - but there are claims his private legal guidance warned the UK could be stuck 'indefinitely' in the Irish border backstop.

Labour and other opposition parties wrote to Commons Speaker John Bercow tonight to demand he start action to hold ministers in contempt of Parliament over Brexit legal advice.

Shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer said the Mr Cox had failed to follow the orders of Parliament to publish his full legal advice - despite the Attorney's repeated insistence publication would not be in the public interest.

He joined forces with the Liberal Democrats, SNP and even Theresa May's DUP allies to ask Mr Bercow to consider launching contempt proceedings.

Attorney General Geoffrey Cox (pictured in the Commons tonight) admitted the UK cannot unilaterally exit the Irish border backstop - prompting claim the Brexit divorce is a 'trap'

The PM (pictured in the Commons today) is fighting to limit the information disclosed about the legal advice from Attorney General Geoffrey Cox

Boris Johnson has joined condemnation of the refusal, saying it was a 'scandal' and pointing out that Mrs May previously called for advice on the Iraq War to be released

The DUP's Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson underlined the threat in a tweet today

In his statement to MPs, Mr Cox insisted the backstop part of the divorce was 'expressly agreed not to be intended to establish a permanent relationship but to be temporary'.

What is in the summary of legal advice on the Brexit deal? The Government has caved to demands to publish the full legal advice on the Brexit deal after losing an historic vote. It means fresh details about the legal advice will be published. But this is what we know about the advice so far: The Northern Ireland backstop lasts indefinitely 'unless and until it is superseded' by 'alternative arrangements'.

Agreement on 'alternative arrangements' to avoid a hard border is only possible by joint UK-EU agreement.

With no agreement, the UK must be able to show 'clear evidence' the EU is failing to negotiate in good faith to get a ruling in its favour.

The UK cannot unilaterally terminate the divorce treaty.

If transition is extended, the UK will have to pay an 'appropriate' amount more into the EU budget. This could run to billions.

During the transition period, the EU can choose to exclude the UK from 'security-related sensitive information' .

During the transition period, the UK must accept all new EU laws with no say on writing them. Advertisement

He said the Article 50 process did not provide a legal basis for a permanent arrangement.

But 'if the protocol were to come into force, it would continue to apply in international law unless and until it was superseded by the intended subsequent agreement' which met the goals of avoiding a hard border and protecting the Good Friday Agreement.

'There is therefore no unilateral right for either party to terminate this arrangement. This means that if no superseding agreement can be reached within the implementation period, the protocol would be activated and in international law would subsist, even if negotiations had broken down.

'How likely that is to happen is a political question, to which the answer will no doubt depend partly on the extent to which it is in either party's interests to remain indefinitely within its arrangements.'

Brexiteers claim the 47-page legal summary published this afternoon is actually a 'glossary' to the Attorney General's six-page advice handed to the Cabinet last month.

It confirms that the Irish border backstop will be in force after the transition period ends in December 2020, 'unless and until' it is superseded by other arrangements.

'If the Protocol starts to apply after the end of the implementation period, then it will continue to do so unless and until its provisions are superseded by a subsequent agreement between the UK and the EU establishing alternative arrangements,' it says.

The legal paper gives a more detailed explanation of the 'best endeavours' provision in the Withdrawal Agreement. The deal sets out that if the backstop were to come into force, there will be a review process for the UK to break out.

How does the Commons contempt process work? Under Commons rules, the Speaker decides whether to allow a contempt motion to go before the House. If he does and the vote is carried, it would then be referred to the Committee of Privileges which would rule on whether a contempt of Parliament had taken place. If it is decided that a contempt had occurred, the committee can recommend a suitable punishment which is then put back to MPs to agree. In theory, the most severe penalty is expulsion from the House, although the prospects of that happening would appear remote. There were only three expulsions in the 20th Century, with the last one in 1954. Two of them involved serious criminal convictions, and the third was for lying to a committee and allegedly taking bribes. However any finding against the Government would be potentially highly damaging for Mrs May at a time when she is at her most vulnerable politically. Advertisement

The summary argues that the 'obligation to negotiate in good faith with a view to concluding agreements is a well recognised concept in international law'.

'Relevant precedents indicate that such obligations require the parties to conduct negotiations in a meaningful way, contemplate modifications to their respective positions and pay reasonable regard to each other's interests,' it says.

But the document adds: 'A tribunal would only find a breach of the duty of good faith if there was a clear basis for doing so.'

The wrangling comes as the bitter row over Mrs May's Brexit plan reaches the endgame, with just over a week until the crunch Commons vote.

As tensions rise, the DUP has said it ready to sign a joint letter with Labour complaining that ministers are in contempt of parliament - after a Commons motion called for the details to be issued.

The party's Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson said: 'If the Government attempt to ignore the will of the House of Commons and refuse to publish the full legal advice on the Irish backstop, the DUP will work with colleagues from right across the House to ensure they start to listen.'

In his Telegraph column, Mr Johnson also waded into the row, saying: 'It is a scandal that this is currently being withheld.

'You will recall that, when she was in opposition, the present Prime Minister wrote to the Labour government and complained of their failure to publish the Attorney General's advice on the Iraq war.

Could vote on Brexit deal be delayed to save May's skin? As pressure grows on the PM, there are claims next week's Brexit vote could be shelved. Some Tory whips think a delay could help Theresa May to go back to the EU to renegotiate her deal to avoid a defeat in the Commons. Under the plan, if the situation was still looking dire at the end of this week the Government would abandon the vote. Mrs May could then attempt to reopen talks at a summit in Brussels. However, Sajid Javid - who was said to be one of the minister who back the idea - dismissed it today. And Downing Street insisted the vote will go ahead as planned. Advertisement

'She was right then  and how much more wrong and absurd is her position now, when you consider that this legal question is more important even than the Iraq war.'

It represents another massive hurdle for Mrs May to overcome as stares down the barrel of almost certain defeat on December 11.

A heavy loss could bring Mrs May's time in Downing Street to a chaotic halt - although allies hope going down by a small margin could allow her to try again.

Earlier Mrs May's chief Brexit adviser told MPs that the Northern Ireland border backstop was a 'slightly uncomfortable necessity' for both the UK and the European Union.

The fallback plan agreed with Brussels was 'not the future relationship that either the UK or the EU wants to have with one another', Olly Robbins told the Exiting the European Union Committee.

He said: 'It is an uncomfortable position for both sides and the reality ... is that there is not a withdrawal agreement without a backstop.

'That reflects also, as I've said to this committee before, ministers' commitments to Northern Ireland and to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland, rather than being something imposed upon us.

The Prime Minister's chief Brexit adviser Oliver Robbins (pictured left today) admitted the deal's hugely controversial backstop is 'uncomfortable but necessary' for the UK, but he insisted a deal would not be done without one. His warning was repeated by new Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay (pictured right today) who said the EU would not allow a deal without a Plan B

'So, it is a necessity and a slightly uncomfortable necessity for both sides.'

Oil tycoon says Theresa May's Brexit deal is 'workable' Leading businessman Sir Ian Wood has said Theresa May's Brexit deal is 'workable' and is better than the current situation with Europe. He said that the UK cannot afford to leave without a deal and that the plan now needs to 'move ahead.' The businessman said that Brexit could also bring benefits to Scottish fishing. Sir Ian, who made his name developing the Wood Group into a global oilfield services company, said that dealing with Brexit had been an 'extraordinarily difficult task.' He told BBC Good Morning Scotland: 'There is not a solution which anyone, or I suspect even more than 50% of people, would really say 'that's a really good solution'. 'There are two extremes and all kinds of ranges in between. 'I frankly think we do need to move ahead. We cannot afford to have no outcome. 'It would be bad for Europe and it would be bad for the UK and it would take a long time to work our way through that and frankly I think the proposal that's on the table, I think it is workable, I think it is better than we have, we're out of Common Market membership but we're retaining some of the advantages so I think it's better than we have, and I think it's a workable proposal.' Advertisement

Asked if the Government had drafted a clause for the Withdrawal Agreement which would have allowed the UK to opt out of the backstop unilaterally, Mr Robbins said: 'Ministers asked us to look at a whole range of options for how to bring the backstop to an end, and so we did.

'And the Prime Minister and other ministers tested some of those out on European partners.

'But, what we went into the negotiation with in the end was a text that delivered the termination clause very much as it is laid out there.'

The UK faces making additional payments to Brussels if the Brexit implementation period is extended, the Government's Brexit legal advice also said.

Under the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement, it is due to run until the end of December 2020 but can be extended by up to two years if both sides agree.

The advice says that discussions on any extension would involve 'reaching further agreement on the UK's financial contribution'.

Labour's Chris Bryant, a supporter of the People's Vote campaign for a second referendum, attacked the paper's release when MPs had demanded to see the full legal advice given to ministers by Mr Cox.

He said: 'The House of Commons was very clear that the full legal advice to the Cabinet should be supplied to Members of Parliament.

'The refusal of the Government to comply sends a very clear message about the Brexit deal - that it is bad for Britain, satisfies nobody and will weaken our economy and our voice in the world.'

Meanwhile, demands for a second referendum are mounting after the dramatic resignation of universities minister Sam Gyimah over the weekend.

Senior Labour figures including shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer and deputy leader Tom Watson are thought to be ramping up pressure on Jeremy Corbyn to back a fresh national ballot.

Environment Secretary Michael Gove admitted yesterday that a referendum was a potential outcome if Mrs May loses, but said it would 'rip the social fabric of the country'. He also insisted Leave would win by a bigger margin than in 2016.

MPs across Parliament have angrily accused ministers of ignoring the will of the House by only releasing a 'full reasoned political statement' on the legal position.

It follows a binding Commons vote last month requiring the Government to lay before Parliament 'any legal advice in full' - including that given by the Attorney General - relating to the Withdrawal Agreement.

Ministers chose not to oppose the motion - tabled by Labour under an arcane procedure known as the humble address - as they feared a damaging Commons defeat.

Mr Cox is said to have warned the UK could be tied to the EU customs union 'indefinitely' through the Northern Ireland 'backstop'.

The Sunday Times said in a letter sent last month to Cabinet ministers, he advised the only way out of the backstop - designed to prevent the return of a hard border with the Republic - once it was invoked was to sign a new trade deal, a process which could take years.

'The protocol would endure indefinitely,' he apparently wrote.

The letter was said to be so sensitive that ministers were given numbered copies to read which they were not allowed to take from the room afterwards.

Labour's Keir Starmer said today the circumstances were so 'exceptional' that the government's legal advice must be released

Sir Keir and the DUP's Westminster leader Nigel Dodds (pictured) could sign a letter asking the Speaker to allow a motion 'that the Government has held Parliament in contempt'

Former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab - who quit last month over the withdrawal agreement - said the legal position was clear.

'The backstop will last indefinitely until it is superseded by the treaty setting out our future relationship, unless the EU allows us to exit,' he told The Sunday Times.

'The EU has a clear veto, even if the future negotiations stretch on for many years, or even if they break down and there is no realistic likelihood of us reaching agreement.

'That's my view as a former international lawyer, but it is consistent if not identical with all of the formal advice I received.'

Commons legal assessment highlights doubt on 'backstop' House of Commons lawyers have raised fresh questions about the Irish border backstop in Theresa May's Brexit deal. An internal assessment by the House's EU legislation team highlights that the customs arrangements would be a 'practical barrier to the UK entering separate trade agreements on goods with third countries'. It also suggests the Joint Committee to arbitrate over the Withdrawal Agreement could put Britain at a 'practical disadvantage'. 'If the Joint Committee is unable to reach a decision, in some circumstances, that will block next steps,' the note says. 'The party that wants those next steps to occur, will then be at a practical disadvantage. 'By way of example, i) the Joint Committee sets the limits of state aid that can be authorised by the UK for agriculture. If limits are not agreed, state aid may not be authorised.' Downing Street has acknowledged that the backstop would hamper trade deals on goods, but argues that the EU would also be unhappy to keep the arrangements indefinitely. The PM's aides insist the country would still be able to do deals on services. Advertisement

Ministers have argued the legal advice is privileged, in the same way as any advice given by a lawyer to their client, and that government cannot function if it is required to release such confidential material.

However, Sir Keir said it was essential MPs understood the 'full legal implications' before they voted on the agreement.

'If the full legal advice is not forthcoming, we will have no alternative but to start proceedings for contempt of Parliament - and we will work with all parties to take this forward,' he said.

'If ministers stubbornly refuse to obey the order of MPs then they risk triggering a historic constitutional row that puts Parliament in direct conflict with the executive.

'Although I accept the long-standing convention that Cabinet legal advice should be kept confidential, it's well-established that in exceptional circumstances that convention does not apply. And these are exceptional circumstances.'

Sir Keir is ready to sign a joint letter with the DUP's Westminster leader Nigel Dodds, Liberal Democrat Brexit spokesman Tom Brake and SNP Europe spokesman Stephen Gethins, asking Mr Bercow to allow a motion 'that the Government has held Parliament in contempt'.

Under Commons rules, if the Speaker allows the motion to go before the House and the vote is carried, it would then be referred to the Committee of Privileges which would rule on whether a contempt of Parliament had taken place.

If it is decided that a contempt had occurred, the committee can recommend a suitable punishment which is then put back to MPs to agree.

In theory, the most severe penalty is expulsion from the House, although the prospects of that happening would appear remote.

However any finding against the Government would be potentially highly damaging for Mrs May at a time when she is at her most vulnerable politically.

May jokes Corbyn's Brexit TV debate plan would mean she misses STRICTLY

Theresa May joked Jeremy Corbyn's Brexit TV debate plan would mean she misses Strictly Come Dancing - just days after the Labour called for the showdown to be early enough he could watch the I'm a Celebrity final.

The PM's jibe at Mr Corbyn today after Downing Street accused the Labour leader of 'running scared' of a head to head clash.

Both leaders have backed a debate on Sunday night - two days before the crunch vote on Mrs May's Brexit deal in the Commons - but failed to agree on format.

Theresa May (pictured today on This Morning) joked Jeremy Corbyn's Brexit TV debate plan would mean she misses Strictly Come Dancing - just days after the Labour called for the showdown to be early enough he could watch the I'm a Celebrity final

The BBC is planning to screen a Brexit showdown between Theresa May and Mr Corbyn (pictured last week on This Morning) on Sunday - two days before the crucial Commons vote on December 11

Mrs May wants the debate on BBC One and has accepted the broadcaster's idea of a head-to-head debate alongside questions from a panel.

Mr Corbyn had backed an ITV plan of a simple one-on-one contest. He has accepted this could be on the BBC but wants the simpler format.

There are growing doubts as to whether the debate would take place at all amid continued wrangling over the format.

Mrs May told This Morning she was 'keen' to take part in a debate.

She said: 'There are discussions about where exactly it is going to be.

'There are variations on this. I think he said he wanted to be on ITV so he could watch the final of I'm a Celebrity.

'I think his proposed time means I would miss Strictly - I hate to say it on ITV but I'm a bit of a Strictly fan.'

'Leave won!' Susanna Reid and Piers Morgan grill Tony Blair on Brexit referendum call

Tony Blair faced a fiery grilling today as he was challenged over why he is calling for another Brexit referendum just two years after the historic vote.

The ex-PM is stepping up his campaign for a so-called People's Vote and lashed Theresa May's deal for 'yielding' too much to Brussels.

Appearing on ITV's Good Morning Britain, he said another referendum should be held which gives Britons a choice between staying in the EU or having a Boris Johnson-style hard Brexit.

But presenters Susanna Reid and Piers Morgan quizzed him over why Remain should even be on the ballot two years after the side lost.

Tony Blair (pictured on GMB today) stepped up his campaign for a second Brexit referendum - and said Theresa May's deal should not be an option on another ballot

In a heated exchange with the ex Labour leader, Susanna said: 'Why should Remain even be an option on the second referendum? Why isn't it a choice between May's deal and an alternative Brexit?

'Because the whole Remain camp didn't win that campaign. Why should we re-run that part of the referendum? Why would Brexiteers - people who voted to leave , not feel utterly infuriated that is being re-run?'

Mr Blair hit back, saying: 'I think if you had a referendum and you excluded the possibility of remaining I think your 16-odd million people who voted Remain would feel a great sense of disillusion if they weren't able to make their case again.'

Piers also chimed in asking: 'Isn't that what happens when you lose?'

The ex Labour leader went on: 'When you lose but the other side are as divided as to what form of Brexit is correct or not the only sensible way is to put it back to people and say, you have had your 30 months of experience, do you want to stay?'

He said there his also a 'good chance' Brussels would give the UK more concessions to the UK.A picture of a police officer wearing a high visibility vest and cargo shorts while armed with a machine gun at a siege on Monday has caused a stir online.

The officer was part of the Special Emergency Response Team, which arrested a pair of accused gunmen who barricaded themselves inside a central Brisbane apartment unit for six hours after allegedly firing at officers.

A photo of the officer was uploaded to Reddit just hours after the Auchenflower area was evacuated, with punters questioning why he was in tradesman attire.

A specially trained police officer wearing tradesman clothing and shorts were responsible for ending the siege in Brisbane (pictured above)

One suggested he was undercover, while another said he was deliberately incognito ahead of the prepared raid of the apartment building on Monday morning.

Despite many theories about the police officer's attire, the explanation for his appearance was simple, police said.

'That would just be what he was wearing when he got the call,' a spokesman said.

SERT are generally highly trained officers who remain on call and have a lot of freedom about what they choose to wear. In this instance, the officer, who was the only one guarding a bike path, was wearing tradesman attire.

The internet was keen to know why some of the highly-armed police appeared in hi-vis clothing during the siege that paralysed the centre of Brisbane on Monday (above)

Accompanying the high-visibility vest and cargo shorts was a camouflage helmet and assault rifle, leading one person to say that he couldn't 'decide if he wants to be seen or not'.

The Special Emergency Response Team was tasked with negotiating with a pair of men whose apartment unit was stormed.

The unit was reportedly rented out by the duo, aged 33 and 29, on an overnight basis.

One of the men allegedly shot at police who attended to their room, before staking out in the building for six hours, police claim.

They eventually surrendered peacefully, with no injuries reported and the men taken into custody.

A 33-year-old man has been charged with 21 offences, including possession of a firearm, two counts unlawful possession of weapons, five counts each of of unlawful use of a motor vehicle and stealing, three counts of burglary, two counts of break and enter and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle.

A 29-year-old man has been charged with 17 offences, including two counts of unlawful possession of weapons, four counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, three counts of stealing, three counts of burglary and two counts of break and enter.

The pair will appear at the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Tuesday.A neo-Nazi group that believes homosexuality is a disease and that non-whites should be expelled is facing calls for the outfit to be banned.

Calls for System Resistance Network (SNR) to be outlawed followed reports of the white supremacist outfit urging followers to read Adolf Hitler's Mein Kampf and inflict vandalism on Welsh cities.

An MP is calling for the group to be banned just like the proscribed outfit National Action, whose founder praised SNR graffiti proclaiming Cardiff a Nazi Zone.

It comes after Corporal Mikko Vehvilainen was jailed for eight years after trying to set up white enclaves in Wales. He was kicked out of the Army after his arrest in September 2017, along with another soldier, as he tried to form an underground network and stockpiled weapons.

Pictured: System Resistance Network's logo. The group is facing banning calls following racist graffiti that was scrawled in Cardiff

Mikko Vehvilainen (pictured giving a Nazi salute) wanted to set up white enclaves in Wales, which is also where the group National Action was established in 2013

The SNR's tactics were exposed by BBC Wales Investigates, whose undercover reporter set up a fake social media profile to join the group.

During the months in which he was corresponding with the network, they asked him to carry out acts on their behalf. He was also told to read extremist literature.

'They talk about smashing the establishment,' he said. 'They want me to break the law - to get their name in the headlines - they don't care who gets hurt.'

They told him to put up posters of the group's logo - which incorporates the British Union of Fascists lightning bolt - and send pictures to prove that he had done so.

The SNR hit headlines in March when Wales Online reported that the group had claimed responsibility for racist graffiti.

'Nazi Zone' was painted on a wall alongside swastikas and posters declared: 'P*** rape gangs coming to your town soon'.

Neo-Nazis are pictured at the White Man March in Newcastle which was organised by National Action in 2015

Claiming reponsibility, the network told anti-fascist demonstrators planning to protest: 'Our propaganda at your March and meeting places. Were taking names and remembering faces. Zero tolerance for non-white races!'

National Action founder Alex Davies has voiced support for the SNR on Radio Aryan, saying he was encouraged by the vandalism.

He said that 'signs of resistance' give him hope, adding: 'It's like a fire. As long as you've got some embers burning all you need is to put some fuel on that fire and it can turn into something big very quickly.'

Mr Davies was a student when he set up the group in 2013. He teamed up with Ben Raymond from Bognor Regis, who then moved to Swansea.

Mr Davies (left) was a student when he set up the Nazi group and Ben Raymond (right) moved to Swansea to assist him

His outfit was made illegal in December 2016 after it glorified the murder of the Labour MP Jo Cox.

Since the ban Mr Davies has been arrested on suspicion of continuing to be a member of National Action, which he denies. He has not been charged.

Stephen Doughty, MP for Cardiff South and Penarth, is now calling for the SNR to be banned just like National Action.

Last month it was reported that white supremacist Corporal Mikko Vehvilainen, 34, was jailed for eight years for membership of National Action.

Nationalists gathered in Newcastle in 2015 for the White Man March which was organised by National Action

Adam Thomas and Claudia Patatas (pictured) named their baby Adolf Hitler and were members of National Action

He believed a 'race war' was coming and tried to establish an all-white armed stronghold in Powys.

The Royal Anglian Regiment soldier who served with distinction since 2012 was convicted of being a member of National Action, and was jailed for eight years.

News of his jailing came as Adam Thomas and Claudia Patatas from Oxfordshire, who named their baby Adolf Hitler, were found guilty of being members of the group. Before the group was disrupted, Thomas asked whether or not he could buy a fun from Vehvilainen. He also asked if it would notices if guns were stolen from his base.

Alexander Deakin, the group's 'regional commander' was jailed for eight years in April 2018.The 70-hectare plant, designed to have a capacity of 49 MW, began construction in March 2018 at a cost of more than VND1.4 trillion ($59.77 million ). It was built by JGC Vietnam, a Japan-owned engineering company specialising in EPC (Engineering  Procurement  Construction) services and technical solutions for various industries.



With over 209,000 330Wp solar panels, the facility is expected to add 103 million kWh annually to the national grid and provide electricity for about 47,000 local households. It is also estimated to help reduce CO2 emission by some 29,000 tonnes per year.

In his remarks at the opening ceremony, Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Vo Ngoc Thanh spoke highly of efforts by TTC Group in putting the solar power into operation on schedule and asked the group to continue investing in other local key projects to boost the provinces socio-economic development.

Gia Lai Electricity JSC took the occasion to present 10 charity houses, worth a total of 500 million VND, to disadvantaged households in Krong Pa district.

Krong Pa is seen as ideal for developing solar power thanks to its year-round sunny weather. The annual temperature in the district averages more than 25 degrees Celsius with about six hours of sunshine a day, or about 2,500 hours each year while the standard used to build a solar power plant is 1,500 sunshine hours per year.

Solar power is expected to create plenty of jobs for local people and improve living standards in Krong Pa, one of the poorest districts in Gia Lai,

According to the provincial Department of Planning and Investment, the province has become a hotspot for solar power with 33 solar power projects invested by 23 firms, having a total capacity of 4,000MWp.

Among the projects, two have received approval from the provincial authorities with combined capacity of 98MWp, 11 with total capacity of 675MWp have been submitted to authorities for approval, and 20 others with total capacity of 3,195MWp are still being evaluated.

In addition, 12 investors are now looking for possible locations for another 17 solar projects with total capacity of 1,330MWp.

VietnamnewsStormy Daniels has revealed that she and attorney Michael Avenatti have 'sorted s*** out' after she questioned what he'd done with the money raised from a fundraising campaign he launched on her behalf.

The adult film star and director told the Daily Beast last week that Avenatti created a campaign on CrowdJustice without her permission or knowledge.

She revealed she had no idea how the money was spent and was considering parting ways with her attorney.

The initial fundraiser brought in a reported $580,000 while a second raised $4,785 before it was taken down on Wednesday evening.

But on Sunday, it appeared Daniels  whose real name is Stephanie Clifford  and Avenatti have resolved their issues.

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Stormy Daniels has revealed that she and attorney Michael Avenatti (pictured together in April) have 'sorted s*** out' after she questioned a fundraising campaign he launched

'Pleased that Michael and I have sorted s*** our and we know the accounting is on the up and up,' she wrote on Twitter.

'We are going to kick a** together on two coasts tomorrow.'

Avenatti responded to the tweet with: 'Onward and upward. To all the people that want to divide us for their own agendas: It is not going to happen!'

He told Fox News that the pair haven't decided if they will continue to raise funds to cover Daniels' legal expenses.

'Ultimately it will be Stormy's decision,' he said.

Daniels tweeted on Sunday that she and her attorney have 'sorted s*** out' and he responded with 'onward and upward'

Daniels and Avenatti are seen together in a photo she posted on Instagram in September

Last week, Daniels revealed she was considering severing ties with Avenatti because he was acting without her approval and wasn't treating her with respect.

In a statement to the Daily Beast, she said: 'He has spoken on my behalf without my approval.

'He filed a defamation case against Donald Trump against my wishes. He repeatedly refused to tell me how my legal defense fund was being spent.'

She added: 'For months I've asked Michael Avenatti to give me accounting information about the fund my supporters so generously donated to for my safety and legal defense. He has repeatedly ignored those requests.

'Days ago I demanded again, repeatedly, that he tell me how the money was being spent and how much was left.

'Instead of answering me, without my permission or even my knowledge Michael launched another crowdfunding campaign to raise money on my behalf. I learned about it on Twitter.

'Michael has been a great advocate in many ways. I'm tremendously grateful to him for aggressively representing me in my fight to regain my voice.

'But in other ways Michael has not treated me with the respect and deference an attorney should show to a client.'

Avenatti came to national prominence as the outspoken lawyer for Daniels in her legal battles against President Donald Trump (pictured in September)

Avenatti came to national prominence as the outspoken lawyer for Daniels in her legal battles against President Donald Trump.

She sued Trump for defamation after he denied her assertion that she had a sexual encounter with him in 2006.

The lawsuit  which Daniels claimed Avenatti filed without her permission  was dismissed by a federal judge in October and Daniels was ordered to pay the president's legal fees.

Daniels has filed a separate lawsuit over a $130,000 hush-money agreement stemming from the alleged encounter.

Last month, Avenatti was arrested in Los Angeles on suspicion of domestic violence.

Los Angeles prosecutors declined to file felony domestic abuse charges against Avenatti, referring the case instead to city attorneys for possible lesser charges.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office did not offer a reason for the decision, which was announced in a brief written statement.

Avenatti, who has hinted that he might run for president in 2020 as a Democrat, denied wrongdoing to reporters waiting for him outside the police station where he was released and in a statement issued through his law firm.

Avenattis clients have also included Julie Swetnick, who accused Brett Kavanaugh of aggressive sexual behavior before his confirmation to the US Supreme Court.A young teenager was sexually assaulted by a man who was considered a friend of the family.

The 13-year-old girl was declared missing in July in Napier, New Zealand, and officers were enlisted to help search the local area for her.

When police located her, she was being sexually assaulted by 56-year-old David Bernard Taylor, the NZ Herald reported.

A young teenager was sexually assaulted by a man who was considered a friend of the family

Taylor was a friend of the young girl's family, Napier District Court heard on Friday.

He pleaded guilty to one charge of sexual violation as he wiped tears from his face.

Judge Bridget Mackintosh said Taylor appeared remorseful and acknowledged his long list of health complications that had left him out of work for years.

She also mentioned Taylor's impairment due to a significant alcohol addiction.

But the trauma imposed on the girl, who was found in Taylor's home while he attempted to hoist his pants up, was severe.

Judge Mackintosh sentenced Taylor to five years and six months behind bars for the attack.A British con artist with a bogus Facebook profile tricked an American widow into handing over her $60,000 life savings after she fell for him online.

Deborah Harmon, from Homosassa in Florida, was deceived by the fraudster who posed as a businessman in Manchester and sent her a picture of a handsome man to convince her he was genuine.

The unknown trickster, who spoke with a German accent, also sent the 63-year-old widow a picture of a passport and persuaded her they would set up a home together.

Falling for his charms and believing she was investing in their shared future, she deposited $60,000 (47,000) in what she was told was a shared bank account, giving up her savings and then taking out loans to send him more cash.

Deborah Harmon, left, a widow from the United States, handed over her $60,000 life savings to a fraudster who charmed her and sent her a picture, right, he claimed was of himself

Ms Harmon, who has been widowed for 20 years, said she was 'very embarrassed' after she accidentally accepted the man's Facebook friend request and an apparent romance blossomed between them.

She said: 'I accidentally pressed accept and we started chatting from there. He was saying that he felt that we were meant to be together and that it was destiny.

'He said he was a widower and that he had a son and that he was a contractor. We chatted on Facebook for maybe three months and then he invited me to talk to him on (Google) Hangouts.

'We would talk before he went to lunch and then in the evening after he had had a nap. We would speak every day. To me his accent sounded German. He spoke in broken English.

'He said he was madly in love with me and that we would definitely be together and that he knew I was the one for him. He wanted to have a family. He said he had a son and he wanted me to be a mother to his son.'

Asked if she reciprocated, Deborah said: 'I did. I do. I do have feelings for him but I can't trust him. I'm very naive. I could kick myself.'

The scammer sent Deborah Harmon this picture of a passport, claiming he was born in Manchester, in an effort to persuade the 63-year-old widow that he was genuine

The con artist sent her a picture of a man in his 40s, which he said was of himself, and a picture of his passport to persuade her he was real.

There are at least three Facebook accounts which include the picture he sent her, suggesting the trickster is not the man in the photo.

Ms Harmon wired him $400, by Western Union, before he told her he was in South Africa and none of the ATMs would accept his bank cards.

The scammer set up what appeared to be an account at a fake bank purporting to be based in 'Budapest, Turkey', called Private Wealth Bank.

She then sent him some $60,000 (47,000), first using up her life savings and later taking out loans.

The man allegedly told her he lived in a flat in Harpurhey, Manchester, but he did not appear on the electoral roll.

In addition his Facebook page listed two schools in Manchester he claimed to have been to, but one did not exist and the other was a girls' school.

MailOnline has contacted Greater Manchester Police to ask if they are investigating the alleged fraud.A 'very promising' rugby league academy player has been left with a bleed on his brain as a group of bouncers were sacked for savagely attacking him and a friend outside a nightclub in Manchester.

Joe Sharratt, an 18-year-old academy player at St Helens, is still recovering in hospital. His mother, Jane, told the BBC her son was now 'sitting up and talking'.

Up to eight door staff were filmed joining the attack outside the former base of Manchesters Factory Records, which is now a nightclub and live music venue in the city centre.

The footage starts with Mr Sharratt dropping to the floor after being punched. The bouncers then surround other man before dragging him around in the Sunday 3.20am bust-up in Manchester

Mr Sharratt is seen being thrown to the ground before door staff repeatedly punch his friend, Leon Cooper, as he tries to reach him.

The pharmacy student at Manchester University said he and Mr Sharratt were escorted out of the club following a "pushing" incident inside.

He exchanged swearwords with one of the bouncers before another attacked his friend before turning on him.

"I wasn't trying to attack them... I was just trying to get to my mate,' he said.

Management at the venue, now known as Factory Manchester, have condemned the distressing scenes, at 3.20am on Sunday, and say they will not tolerate such behaviour.

Mr Sharratt had been on a night out after playing for Lancashire Schoolboys against Australia schoolboys in Manchester on Saturday.

Chief Inspector Cherie Buttle, of Greater Manchester Police, said: Were aware that there are a number of videos circulating on social media and I cannot stress how important it is that those with footage make contact with us.

St Helens said Mr Sharratt had taken his A Levels in the summer. He deferred a university place to play for the clubs under 19s team during the current season.

The group of up to eight bouncers are then seen repeatedly punching the man in the face and head

The man then falls to his knees and is then punched repeatedly in the back in the shock footage

A club spokesman added that the teenager was in contention for representing England schoolboys for the first time in another match against the touring Australia team this coming weekend.

In a statement, the club said: Joe is of impeccable character and is an upstanding member of our Academy system. He represented Lancashire Schoolboys against Australian Schoolboys with distinction on Saturday and was hoping to represent England next weekend.

He is a top academic achiever with a very bright future ahead of him alongside his rugby league prowess.

Our welfare team are now in contact with Joes family and we will offer any assistance we can at this distressing time. Understandably, our thoughts are now with Joe and his family.

The nightclubs bouncers were condemned as animals by people sharing footage of the attack on social media.

Mark Bray wrote: Totally uncalled for. Bouncers thinking they have the right to beat someone up. Their job is to remove someone from a building not to scrap with them on the street.

Night time economy adviser for Greater Manchester Sacha Lord hit out at the bouncers in a tweet in which he shared the video

People went on Twitter to express their disgust about the incident

In a statement, Factory Manchester said: We have launched a full investigation into this distressing incident and will be working with the police, local authority and our third party security provider to ensure that the matter is dealt with swiftly and appropriately.

Factory is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all its customers and we will not tolerate this sort of behaviour from anyone directly or indirectly employed by us, whatever the circumstances.

Any security personnel found to be involved will be terminated with immediate effect, regardless of the outcome of any police investigation.

Having viewed both the CCTV footage and the video circulating on social media, we can only say that we are shocked by what we have seen.Newly revealed WhatsApp messages sent by murdered Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi just weeks before his death could provide a crucial insight into why he was killed.

In the WhatsApp exchange, between him and Montreal-based activist Omar Abdulaziz, Khashoggi slams Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman - calling him a 'Pac-Man' who devours his enemies.

Abdulaziz, who revealed the messages to CNN, said he believes they were hacked in August by Saudi authorities just two months before Khashoggi's brutal killing at the consulate in Istanbul.

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In WhatsApp messages between him and activist Omar Abdulaziz, Khashoggi (pictured) slams Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman

Omar Abdulaziz (pictured) said he believes the messages were hacked by the Saudi government which caused Khashoggi's death

Last month, researchers at the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab reported Abdulaziz's phone had been hacked by military-grade spyware.

And Abdulaziz later told CNN: 'The hacking of my phone played a major role in what happened to Jamal, I am really sorry to say. The guilt is killing me.'

In over 400 messages sent between the pair over the course of a year, Khashoggi and Abdulaziz conceived plans to mobilize the Saudi youth against Bin Salman by creating an 'electronic army' to fight the state's propaganda.

The pair developed intricate plans for the scheme they called the 'cyber bees', which involved sending foreign SIM cards to dissidents back home so they could tweet without being traced.

In the messages Khashoggi described Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman as like a 'pac man' devouring all in his path

Khashoggi, seen on CCTV entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, was murdered by a Saudi death squad after entering the building on October 2

According to Abdulaziz, who lives in Canada after fleeing Saudi Arabia, Khashoggi also pledged $30,000 to implementing their plans.

Khashoggi is said to have used the WhatsApp thread to engage in stern criticism of Bin Salman.

In one message, Khashoggi tells Abdulaziz, 'Tyranny has no logic, but he loves force, oppression and needs to show them off. He is like a beast "pac man" the more victims he eats, the more he wants.

'I will not be surprised that the oppression will reach even those who are cheering him, then others and others and so on. God knows.'

Plans developed between Abdulaziz and Khashoggi included sending SIM cards to Saudi dissidents still living in the country

The journalist's death has sparked international outcry with many calling for Bin Salman to step down

Abdulaziz on Sunday launched a lawsuit against an Israeli company that invented the software he believes was used to hack his phone.

A lawsuit filed in Tel Aviv on Sunday shows Abdulaziz is suing Israel's NSO Group, who make hacking software, and have already been sued by Mexican and Qatari citizens on similar grounds.

After receiving word from Saudi Arabia that authorities had seen messages between the pair, Abdulaziz informed Khashoggi who simply wrote back: 'God help us.'

Bin Salman made a controversial appearance at the G20 summit in Buenos Aires last week where he shook hands with world leaders including Theresa May and Donald Trump.Tony Blair faced a fiery grilling today as he was challenged over why he is calling for another Brexit referendum just two years after the historic vote.

The ex-PM is stepping up his campaign for a so-called People's Vote and lashed Theresa May's deal for 'yielding' too much to Brussels.

Appearing on ITV's Good Morning Britain, he said another referendum should be held which gives Britons a choice between staying in the EU or having a Boris Johnson-style hard Brexit.

But presenters Susanna Reid and Piers Morgan quizzed him over why Remain should even be on the ballot two years after the side lost.

In a heated exchange with the ex Labour leader, Susanna said: 'Why should Remain even be an option on the second referendum? Why isn't it a choice between May's deal and an alternative Brexit?

'Because the whole Remain camp didn't win that campaign. Why should we re-run that part of the referendum? Why would Brexiteers - people who voted to leave , not feel utterly infuriated that is being re-run?'

Tony Blair (pictured on GMB today) stepped up his campaign for a second Brexit referendum - and said Theresa May's deal should not be an option on another ballot

Mr Blair hit back, saying: 'I think if you had a referendum and you excluded the possibility of remaining I think your 16-odd million people who voted Remain would feel a great sense of disillusion if they weren't able to make their case again.'

Piers also chimed in asking: 'Isn't that what happens when you lose?'

The ex Labour leader went on: 'When you lose but the other side are as divided as to what form of Brexit is correct or not the only sensible way is to put it back to people and say, you have had your 30 months of experience, do you want to stay?'

He said there his also a 'good chance' Brussels would give the UK more concessions to the UK.

Mr Blair sought to pile fresh pressure on the PM as she faces the toughest eight days of her political career ahead of the crunch Brexit vote, with her premiership hanging by a thread.

She faces a full-blown constitutional crisis over her refusal to publish the full legal advice about her Brexit deal.

While Labour have declared they will call a vote of no confidence in the PM if - as expected - she loses the Brexit vote on December 11.

With the PM on the ropes, arch Remainer Mr Blair said her plan satisfies nobody and has left the UK in 'stalemate'.

He said: 'You have now got a position where there is a division in Parliament, in the Government, in fact even in the Cabinet, certainly in the country.

Grilling the ex Labour leader, Susanna said: 'Why should Remain even be an option on the second referendum? Why isn't it a choice between May's deal and an alternative Brexit?

Anti Brexit MPs from across the political divide today handed in petitions to Downing Street demanding another referendum (pictured, left to right, Labour MP Chuka Umunna, Green MP Caroline Lucas and Tory MP Justin Greening)

Labour MP Chuka Umunna tweeted a picture of himself and other People's Vote campaigners handing in a stake of petitions in to the PM today

'And you have two different versions of Brexit on offer, you have got the Brexit version Theresa May is putting forward...

'The problem with it is that it does not really please the people who advocated Brexit most strongly, and then obviously it doesn't please people like me either, who wanted to Remain.

'You have got her version of Brexit. You have got a Boris Johnson, Nigel Farage version of Brexit which is, I would say, a kind of true Brexit, which takes us out of the economic structures of European Union as well as the political structures.

'So you have got both versions on offer and a stalemate.'

Mr Blair hit back at accusations that he and other anti Brexit campaigners are trying to thwart the will of the people, and insisted a second vote is the only way to end the deadlock.

MPs at war over Brexit legal advice that 'says UK could be trapped in EU customs union Theresa May could face being held in contempt of Parliament as Tory rebels unite with the DUP and Labour to demand full legal advice on her Brexit deal is released. The Prime Minister is resisting huge pressure to disclose the private opinion Attorney General Geoffrey Cox gave on the package she has thrashed out with Brussels. The eminent QC and strident Brexiteer was a key figure in forcing the deal through the Cabinet - but there are claims his formal written advice was far bleaker and he warned the UK would be stuck 'indefinitely' in the Irish border backstop. Despite a Commons motion being passed demanding the full document, ministers are insisting they will only release a summary as the full material would break convention and undermine the operation of government. Boris Johnson today joined condemnation of the refusal, saying it was a 'scandal' and pointing out that Mrs May previously called for advice on the Iraq War to be released. If the government does not cave in by the time Mr Cox makes a statement to the Commons this evening, Speaker John Bercow could launch contempt proceedings - triggering a formal investigation in the PM or her most senior colleagues. The potential punishments include suspension or expulsion from the House, although they have not been deployed for decades. Advertisement

And he said a second vote should be a choice between a 'true Brexit' advocated by Nigel Farage and Mr Johnson, and Remain.

He said: 'Personally I think the only way to resolve this is to have the version Remain, or alternatively, Leave.

'But leave on terms that make it clear this is a hard Brexit, you are leaving in a way that those who have most ardently argued 'Out' want.'

But Mr Blair and other ardent Remainers in Labour pushing for a second referendum were told to be 'careful what they wish for' by their shadow attorney general Shami Chakrabarti last night.

The Labour frontbencher told the BBC Radio 4 Westminster Hour: 'Because whether you're for Leave or Remain, if we were to have another binary vote and we get something similar to the split we saw last time  whether it's a little bit for Leave or a little bit for Remain  what happens next?

'Best of three, women's tennis? Best of five, men's tennis?

'Have we actually resolved this deep fissure that we've opened up?'

Mr Blair tried to turn the screw on the Prime Minister just as she faces the toughest week of her political career.

She is desperately trying to drum up support for her hugely controversial Brexit plan amid a barrage of criticism from all sides.

A staggering 101 mutinous Tory MPs have now indicated they will vote down her deal on December 11.

If they all stick to their guns she will suffer a humiliating defeat that could send her premiership crashing down.

Amid this massive opposition, Tory whips have considered dramatically scrapping the vote so the PM can go back to Brussels and plead for more concessions to peel off her critics.

The reports were downplayed by Home Secretary Sajid Javid this morning who said he cannot see the vote being delayed.

But the PM is facing what could turn out to be a full-blown constitutional crisis over her refusal to publish the full legal advice on her Brexit deal.

Mrs May could face being held in contempt of Parliament as Tory rebels unite with the DUP and Labour to demand full legal advice is released.

The Prime Minister is resisting huge pressure to disclose the private opinion Attorney General Geoffrey Cox gave on the package she has thrashed out with Brussels.

The eminent QC and strident Brexiteer was a key figure in forcing the deal through the Cabinet - but there are claims his formal written advice was far bleaker and he warned the UK would be stuck 'indefinitely' in the Irish border backstop.

Despite a Commons motion being passed demanding the full document, ministers are insisting they will only release a summary as the full material would break convention and undermine the operation of government.

Mr Johnson today joined condemnation of the refusal, saying it was a 'scandal' and pointing out that Mrs May previously called for advice on the Iraq War to be released.

If the government does not cave in by the time Mr Cox makes a statement to the Commons this evening, Speaker John Bercow could launch contempt proceedings - triggering a formal investigation in the PM or her most senior colleagues.

The potential punishments include suspension or expulsion from the House, although they have not been deployed for decades.Several cities in north-west China have been covered in yellow snow, a rare sight caused by cold weather and sandstorms in the region.

Videos filmed by residents in Xinjiang region show white snow covered by a layer of sand and dust, an unusual phenomenon some likened to tiramisu.

Snowfalls of 10cm to 20cm (four to eight inches) were reported in the region's capital Urumqi and the cities of Shihezi and Changji on Saturday.

Several cities in north-west China's Xinjiang region have been covered in yellow snow, a rare sight caused by cold weather and sandstorms in the area

Snowfalls of 10cm to 20cm (four to eight inches) were reported in the region's capital Urumqi and the cities of Shihezi and Changji on Saturday

The snow's layered Tiramisu appearance is formed because of a time gap, an expert said

'Since last Friday, many places in Xinjiang have been hit by strong winds measured at force seven or above. There was also a sandstorm in the Karamay area,' reported Xinhua news agency citing He Qing, director of Xinjiang Meteorological Administration.

'Strong winds brought sand down south, entering cities including Urumqi and Changji. Due to low temperatures, the dust fell along with the snow,' he added.

The snow's layered Tiramisu appearance is formed because of a time gap, He said.

'In the early stage, it was snow that fell. But during the later stage, it was mainly dust, resulting in the layered effect,' said He Qing, director of Xinjiang Meteorological Administration

A sandstorm seen rolling into Zhangye in China's north-west Gansu province last Sunday

A sandstorm in Urumqi in 2014. Sand storms regularly occur in north-west China during the dry season, when winds blow loose, dry soil and sand into urban areas from the Gobi desert

'In the early stage, it was snow that fell. But during the later stage, it was mainly dust, resulting in the layered effect,' said He.

Sand storms regularly occur in north-west China during the dry season, when winds blow loose, dry soil and sand into urban areas from the Gobi desert, coating cities in a layer of yellow grime.

Last week, Zhangye city in Gansu province was engulfed by a massive sandstorm that sparked rural fires, forced traffic to slow down and prompted residents to cover their faces.

Video and images showed a yellow fog cast across the city within minutes and residents covering their faces in scarves as they went about their daily lives.

Videos filmed by residents in Xinjiang region show white snow covered by a layer of sand and dust, an unusual phenomenon some likened to tiramisu

Images showed residents covering their faces in scarves as they went about their daily lives

Visibility went below 100 metres (328 feet) in parts of Zhangye City in Gansu last Sunday

The massive wall of sand was nearly 100 metres (328 feet) tall, according to the administration in a Weibo post.

Visibility went below 100 metres (328 feet) in parts of the city and police were deployed to ensure safety along the expressways, CCTV said.

Vehicles were made to slow down and police in high visibility vests were seen directing traffic.

Winds also sparked fires in rural areas when heating kindle was blown onto haystacks.

By 7pm, air quality in the cities of Jiayuguan, Jiuquan, Zhangye, Jinchang and Wuwei was 'severely polluted', reports said, with warnings going beyond 'hazardous' - the maximum level.A North Dakota man has pleaded guilty to stealing a forklift and planning to 'kill' President Trump by flipping over his limousine.

Gregory Lee Leingang, 42, was arrested in September last year after stealing the machinery and trying to drive it into the President's motorcade route in Mandan, where Trump was due to give a speech.

On Friday Leingang pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to enter or remain in a restricted building and on grounds while using a dangerous weapon and one count of attempting to damage government property.

Gregory Lee Leingang, 42, was arrested in September 2017 for attempting to use a stolen forklift to flip over Donald Trump's presidential limousine

U.S Assistant State's Attorney Brandi Sasse Russell said the intention was to assassinate President Trump, the Grand Forks Herald reported.

President Trump was in Mandan, North Dakota giving a speech on tax reform during the alleged plan to kill him

'The intent was to basically try to get to the limo, flip the limo and get to the president and he wanted to kill the president,' she said.

Trump was visiting the Andeavor Refinery in Mandan, a city just across the Missouri River from Bismarck, on September 6 to address workers on the subject of tax reform.

That afternoon, prior to the President's 2pm arrival, Leingang stole the forklift and attempted to access the presidential motorcade route.

But according to Ms Sasse Russell, the forklift became stuck in a gated area and he fled the scene.

Local police tracked down Leingang, who allegedly admitted to them and U.S Secret Service the details of his plan.

Michelle Monteiro, Leingang's public defender, said in court that 'was suffering a serious psychiatric crisis during this incident.'

A presidential limo nicknamed 'The Beast' is parked outside the Tree of Life Synagogue near a memorial for the victims in Pittsburgh, Tuesday, October 30, 2018

Before attempting to flip the limo, Leingang started two fires - one at Bismarck Municipal Ballpark maintenance shop and another at the state parole and probation office.

He entered a plea deal with federal prosecutors and received a five year sentence for the theft of the forklift.

He also received a ten year sentence for arson and another five year term for a separate burglary incident.

According to Grand Forks Herald his estimated release date is in 2038.Footage has emerged showing Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman being ignored by world leaders as they gathered for a photo at G20.

Video shows the royal fiddling with his clothes and standing awkwardly on his own at the back of the stage at the summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, as others mingled.

At one point the 33-year-old, who has been accused of ordering the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, looks around for someone to talk to.

The clip then shows him looking at the ground with other leaders apparently ignoring opportunities to speak to him during the traditional G20 'family portrait' photograph.

Footage shows Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman being ignored by world leaders as they gathered for a photo at G20

The clip shows the royal fiddling with his clothes and standing awkwardly on his own at the back of the stage at the summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, as others mingled

It comes amid international condemnation over the murder of writer Khashoggi, who was lured to the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul before being butchered by a Saudi hit squad. Saudi Arabia has said the prince had no prior knowledge of the murder.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has said the killing was ordered by the highest level of Saudi leadership but probably not King Salman, putting the spotlight instead on the crown prince.

At the G20 over the weekend, Erdogan could be seen walking past the kingdom's de facto ruler without acknowledging him.

The Saudi government media office, in a statement responding to an earlier Reuters story about Prince Mohammed being sidelined in the photo, said he was standing 'in the same proximity to the centre of the group' as in a similar photo at the G20 summit in China two years ago.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan could be seen walking past the kingdom's de facto ruler without acknowledging him

Earlier in the summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin was seen high-fiving the prince and heartily shaking his hand.

The contrasting moments captured the dilemma facing world leaders at the event: How to deal with the crown prince, who is dogged by controversy over Khashoggi but is also de facto leader of a rich, oil-producing kingdom that is a major global investor.

At least 12 leaders went on to have closed-door bilateral meetings with him during the two-day summit.

Three of them, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, British Prime Minister Theresa May and French President Emmanuel Macron, said publicly they had pressed Prince Mohammed for a full investigation into the murder.

Trudeau said he had a frank conversation with the prince at a leaders' dinner on Friday, telling him there was 'a need for better answers on the killing of Khashoggi.' May said she called for a full, credible and transparent investigation, while Macron insisted the crown prince allow international investigators to take part in any inquiry.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who has defended U.S. ties with Saudi Arabia, 'exchanged pleasantries' with the crown prince, the White House said. Trump has said it may never be known if Prince Mohammed ordered the killing or not. Sources say the CIA believes the crown prince ordered the killing.

The crown prince also discussed investments and economic partnerships with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Readouts of those meetings did not say whether Xi and Modi had confronted the prince over the Khashoggi case.

The Crown Prince appeared to be sidelined as leaders gathered on stage for the traditional photograph

Vladimir Putin and Mohammed bin Salman shared a high-five in extraordinary scenes ahead of a summit between world leaders at the G20

'China firmly supports Saudi Arabia in its drive for economic diversification and social reform, and will continue to stick together with Saudi Arabia on issues involving their core interests,' Xi said, according to China's official Xinhua news agency.

Modi and Prince Mohammed discussed scaling up investments in Indiaas tech, farm and energy sectors, according to an Indian official and the Saudi news agency (SPA).

Before the start of the gathering, Argentinian President Mauricio Macri had said it was possible that the accusations against the crown prince could be discussed when the leaders convened.

In the end, they were not.

Days before the summit, Human Rights Watch called on Argentina to use a war crimes clause in its constitution to investigate any involvement by the crown prince in possible crimes against humanity in Yemen, where a Saudi-led military campaign is under way, and Khashoggi's murder.

The federal prosecutor's office assigned to review the case had not announced whether a formal investigation would be opened by the close of the summit on Saturday.Sajid Javid today spoke of his fury at the bullying of a young Syrian refugee - and revealed he was personally targeted by racist bullies.

The Home Secretary said the video of the notorious attack on Jamal, which sparked a public outcry, left him absolutely 'outraged'.

The 15-year-old was pinned down and 'waterboarded' by a bigger child at Almondbury Community School in the footage.

Mr Javid said today that seeing the assault brought 'memories flooding back' from his own schooldays in Bristol, when he was attacked for being Asian.

He said he had sent a personal letter and hoped to meet Jamal and his family for a 'cup of tea' at some stage.

Sajid Javid (pictured) has revealed he was targeted by bullies as a schoolboy (right). Mr Javid said the assault on a Syrian refugee brought 'memories flooding back' from his own in Bristol, when he was attacked for being Asian

'It reminded me of an incident I had when I was at school,' Mr Javid told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

'I hated it.

'When I was 11 I had just started my comprehensive school.

'Those memories flooded back to me.'

He added: 'How can this kind of thing still be going on?

But Mr Javid, a second generation immigrant whose family came from Pakistan, said the response of the British public had showed the country's true nature. 'The general population was outraged,' he said. 'That says something really important about us as people.'

Jamal's family fled their home after being caught up in the civil war and spent six years as refugees in Lebanon before coming to the UK under a UN programme in 2016.

Jamal, 15, was pinned down and 'waterboarded' by a bigger child at Almondbury Community School in the footage that went viral

But both Jamal and his 13-year-old sister have suffered separate attacks. He said in a TV interview that bullies had made their lives a misery - but also urged people not to retaliate. I was feeling unsafe everywhere. I woke up at night and just started crying, he said.

Shocked members of the public have donated more than 130,000 to help give the family a fresh start.

They are said to be hoping to use the funds from the appeal to move away from Huddersfield.

Mr Javid has previously spoken of his tough experiences at Downend School on the outskirts of Bristol.

In 2014 he revealed he had once got into a fight with a racist pupil who called him Paki. The boy was expelled, but Mr Javid said he bumped into him 10 years later.

I bumped into him in a shopping centre lift. He said: Sajid isnt it? Im sorry for what I did, and we shook hands.Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang's Regular Press Conference on December 3, 2018

2018/12/04

China and France have agreed to hold the 6th China-France High-level Economic and Financial Dialogue in France on December 7. Chinese Vice Premier Hu Chunhua of the State Council and French Minister of the Economy and Finance Bruno Le Maire will co-chair the Dialogue.

The China-France High-level Economic and Financial Dialogue, established in 2013, serves as an important platform for the two countries to communicate and coordinate on policies regarding economic and financial issues of strategic, overall and long-term significance. It has played a positive role in deepening bilateral practical cooperation in the economic and financial fields, strengthening communication and coordination on major international economic and financial issues, and advancing China-France Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

China and France have agreed to focus the 6th Dialogue on the macro-economic situation and global economic governance, trade and investment cooperation, cooperation and connectivity on agriculture, advanced manufacturing industries and major projects as well as financial cooperation.

Q: The 13th Summit of the Group of 20 in Buenos Aires, Argentina has just concluded, which adopted the G20 Leaders' Declaration. What is China's comment on the outcomes of the summit?

A: The 2018 G20 Buenos Aires Summit was held against the backdrop of fast-changing international landscape, rising protectionism and unilateralism and the world economy facing both opportunities and challenges. The participants discussed the major issues concerning the world economy, adopted the leaders' declaration, sent out the positive message and injected confidence and vitality into the global market. China congratulates on the success of the summit and appreciates the efforts made by Argentina which holds the G20 presidency.

China believes that the outcomes of this G20 Summit can be summed up as the following aspects:

First, we remain committed to promoting global growth. All relevant parties agreed to step up dialogue and actions to enhance confidence and safeguard against downside risks. We reaffirmed our pledge to use all policy tools to achieve strong, sustainable, balanced and inclusive growth. We demonstrated our positive will to resolve differences through consultation and stay united to address challenges.

Second, we remain committed to upholding the multilateral trading system. All relevant parties stressed that international trade and investment are important engines for economic growth, innovation, job creation and development and commended the outstanding contributions the multilateral trading system has made to promoting global growth. Meanwhile, they all said that there is still room for the multilateral trading system to make improvements and they supported necessary reforms of the World Trade Organization.

Third, we remain committed to improving global economic governance. All relevant parties reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the G20 Action Plan on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development adopted at the G20 Hangzhou Summit and other important initiatives, advancing the reform of the International Monetary Fund, stepping up cooperation on such global issues as education, public health and food security and further improving global economic governance.

Fourth, we remain committed to cooperating to address climate change. Most members reaffirmed their strong political commitment to implementing the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement and sent out a strong signal to uphold multilateralism and promote the international cooperation on addressing climate change, which injects strong political impetus into the 24th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 24) to the UNFCCC.

It has been ten years since the first G20 Summit was convened. The success of the summit once again proves that as the premier forum for international economic cooperation, the G20 continues to play an important role in international economic affairs. China believes that as long as the G20 members follow the principle of achieving shared growth through discussion and collaboration in engaging in global governance, shoulder the responsibility of forging a community with a shared future for mankind, stay united and enhance cooperation, we are bound to make greater contributions to promoting the sound development of the world economy and improving people's welfare. China is willing to continue with its constructive role to this end.

Q: According to reports, Japanese government officials said China was suspected of having conducted oil and gas exploration on the Chinese side of the so-called "Japan-China Middle Line" in the East China Sea, and Japan has lodged representations with the Chinese side. What is your comment? There are also reports on the oil and gas exploration in the East China Sea, saying that Japan has been asking for an early resumption of bilateral negotiations on cooperation and exploration treaties in the East China Sea. What is the attitude of the Chinese side towards that?

A: China's oil and gas activities in the East China Sea are all located in waters indisputably under China's jurisdiction and are therefore within our sovereign right and right of jurisdiction.

The so-called "Japan-China Middle Line" is just a unilateral claim by the Japanese side. China firmly opposes it and never acknowledges it.

As for negotiations on oil and gas exploration cooperation in the East China Sea, to my knowledge, China and Japan exchanged views on the East China Sea issue during the previous round of contacts and exchanges. The working teams on the two sides will follow the spirit of the consensus reached by the leaderships to conduct the relevant work.

Q: We have noted that the consensus on trade issues was reached at the just concluded China-US summit. There are some differences between the press release issued by the Chinese side and the statement released by the US side. What is your response to that?

A: On December 1, President Xi Jinping and President Trump held a successful meeting on the sidelines of the G20 Buenos Aires Summit and reached important consensus, which points out the direction for the China-US relations going forward. The Chinese side has issued the readout and I would refer you to that.

The two heads of state reached consensus on trade issues and agreed to stop levying additional tariffs. The two sides also put forth a series of constructive proposals on how to resolve the existing differences and problems. China is willing to open its market, expand import and help mitigate the relevant China-US trade issues in light of the process of its new round of reform and opening-up and the needs of the domestic market and its people. Meanwhile, China points out that reaching a mutually beneficial and concrete agreement is the basis and prerequisite for China to take relevant active actions towards the US.

I also want to stress that it is of great significance for the two sides to reach consensus during the summit. It not only effectively prevents the further escalation of China-US trade frictions but also opens up new prospects for win-win cooperation. It will not only benefit the respective development of China and the US and the two peoples but also promote the steady growth of world economy and serve the interests of all countries.

Going forward, the two sides will follow the consensus reached by the two heads of state to step up consultations and endeavor to bring the China-US trade relations back to the normal track as soon as possible so as to achieve win-win cooperation.

Q: The informal BRICS meeting and Russia-India-China (RIC) meeting were held on the sidelines of the G20 summit. Could you offer more information on these meetings? How do you comment on them?

A: The informal BRICS meeting and Russia-India-China (RIC) meeting were held on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina. President Xi Jinping attended these meetings and relevant press readouts have already been released. Here I would like to give you a recap.

During the informal BRICS meeting, the five BRICS leaders reaffirmed their commitments to implementing the outcomes of previous BRICS summits, enhancing solidarity and cooperation, further deepening and substantiating BRICS cooperation in various fields, and striving to play a bigger role in safeguarding international peace and security, promoting global growth, and improving global governance.

The BRICS countries also expressed their unanimous support for the WTO-centered and rules-based multilateral trading system and called on all WTO members to stand against unilateralist and protectionist measures which run counter to WTO rules. The BRICS countries are in favor of reforming the WTO, upholding the core values and basic principles of the WTO, and making sure that the WTO reflects the interests of all members, especially developing members.

During the RIC meeting, the three leaders agreed that Russia, China and India are all major countries of significant influence and each other's important strategic partners for cooperation. Our three countries share a wide range of common interests and similar development goals and shoulder important responsibilities for the future of the region and the world. The three leaders agreed to enhance coordination, build consensus, and strengthen cooperation trilaterally to jointly contribute to world peace, stability and development.

Against the backdrop of a complicated and fluid international landscape and world politics, economy, trade and environment facing severe challenges from unilateralism and protectionism, these meetings gave out a strong message for supporting multilateralism, stepping up international cooperation and promoting mutual benefit and win-win results. They showcased the wish shared by emerging markets and developing countries to enhance solidarity and cooperation and safeguard common interests as well as the constructive and responsible role played by emerging markets in international affairs. They contributed more factors of stability and certainty to the international situation.

Q: Regarding the China-US summit, the US statement said that China was open to approving a deal on Qualcomm acquiring NXP. Is that something that was discussed? President Trump today tweeted that China will reduce and remove the tariffs on the automobiles imported from the US. Can you confirm it?

A: Like I said just now, the two heads of state reached consensus on trade issues and agreed to stop levying additional tariffs. The two sides also put forth a series of constructive proposals on how to resolve the existing differences and problems.

Going forward, the two sides will follow the consensus reached by the two heads of state to step up consultations and strive to reach a mutually beneficial and concrete agreement.

As for the specific questions you raised, I will refer you to the competent authority.

Q: Regarding the China-US summit, you said that the teams from the two countries will step up consultations. Will the two sides hold meetings in Beijing or Washington D.C.? The Financial Times once reported that Vice Premier Liu He would probably travel to Washington next week. Can you confirm this?

A: Like I said just now, the working teams from the two sides will follow the consensus reached by the two heads of state to step up consultations and strive to reach a mutually beneficial and concrete agreement. With regard to the detailed arrangement for the contacts between the two sides, I will refer you to the competent authority.

Q: China has concluded its rotating presidency of the UN Security Council for November. Can you give us more details on China's November presidency?

A: With the support and coordination of all parties, China has successfully concluded its rotating presidency of the UN Security Council for November. Following the principle of fairness, transparency, high efficiency and pragmatism, the Chinese sided hosted 35 meetings, adopted six resolutions and issued seven press statements by the President of the Security Council.

Under China's auspices, the Security Council in November held open debates, called for supporting multilateralism and strengthening the role of the UN, moved forward deliberations and the political settlement processes of relevant international and regional hot-spot issues, and prompted discussions and actions from all parties on the UN peacekeeping operations. Under the rotating presidency, China has given full play to its role as a permanent member of the Security Council and made new and positive contributions to world peace and security, thus winning acclaim from all parties.

The UN is the banner of multilateralism and the core of multilateral mechanisms. Under the current circumstances, the international community needs a strong United Nations more than ever. China will continue to abide by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, firmly uphold multilateralism, actively push for the settlement of hot-spot issues and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and promote a bigger role for the UN in international affairs.

Q: Last week, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan attended the groundbreaking ceremony of the construction of Kartarpur corridor along the Pakistani-Indian border. The Indian side has also approved the corridor project. This corridor will provide a visa free access to Sikh pilgrims from India wishing to visit the holy shrine in Pakistan. What is China's comment?

A: We have noted relevant reports and are pleased with this positive interaction between Pakistan and India.

These two countries are important nations in South Asia, and a steady relationship between them is significant to peace and development of this region and the world beyond. We sincerely wish that they could strengthen communication and dialogue, properly handle differences, improve bilateral ties, and jointly maintain regional peace and stability.

Q: On the meeting between President Trump and President Xi, the US statement said that China had agreed to designate fentanyl as controlled substance. How does this agreement differ from the previous one? What does it mean for China's policy going forward? Will you for example extradite to the US Chinese nationals who have been charged by the US for fentanyl production and what other changes will be made to Chinese laws?

A: When taking the questions on fentanyl last week, I said that anti-drug cooperation is always a highlight and model in China-US law-enforcement and security cooperation. China is willing to continue to enhance exchanges and cooperation with the US in this regard.

After the China-US summit, China issued the readout, which says that China will include all fentanyl-like substances into its list of controlled substance and start the procedure to adjust relevant laws and regulations.

Now the relevant work is yet to be started. So regarding the specific questions you asked about, it is still too early to answer them.

Q: Yesterday reports say that a far-right party won seats in a Spanish regional parliament for the first time. What is your comment? What does China think of the rise of the far-right forces in Europe?

A: China and Spain are comprehensive strategic partners. President Xi Jinping just made a successful state visit to Spain. China-Spain relations are now facing new historical opportunities. At this new starting point, China would like to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation with Spain at the central and local levels.

Europe is an important party to the international landscape. China and Europe will work together to build China-Europe partnerships for peace, growth, reform and civilization and make greater contributions to world peace, stability, development and prosperity.

Q: Just now you gave elaborate details about the BRICS leaders' meeting as well as the RIC leaders' meeting in Buenos Aires. The leaders from Japan, the US and India also held their first meeting there. How does China view this?

A: China always remains open to the normal exchanges and cooperation between relevant countries. Meanwhile, we also hope that such exchanges and cooperation can promote the mutual trust and cooperation between regional countries and play a constructive role in maintaining peace, stability, development and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region.

Q: On the China-US agreement, many doubt that whether the US will stick to the agreement and keep its promises. Is China concerned that the US may break its promises since it has done that before? I wonder if China has a plan B in such case?

A: During the summit, President Xi Jinping pointed out that the economic and trade exchanges between China and the US are close and that it is quite normal for the two sides to have some differences in the economic and trade areas. The key is that China and the US should properly manage them and find a solution that can be accepted by both sides in the spirit of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit.

China has stressed before that we hope to conduct dialogue and consultations with the US to resolve the trade issues on the basis of mutual respect, equality and good faith.

Q: State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, when briefing the media on the China-US summit, said that China and the US are stepping up consultations in the direction of lifting all additional tariffs. Can you give us more details on this?

A: The two heads of state reached consensus on trade issues and agreed to stop levying additional tariffs. They have instructed the working teams from the two sides to follow the consensus to step up consultations in the direction of lifting all additional tariffs and strive to reach a mutually beneficial and concrete agreement as soon as possible.George H.W. Bush's service dog Sully will accompany his casket aboard the presidential plane to Washington.

The Boeing 747 jet will carry the 41st president of the United States' body from Texas to Washington, where he will lie in state in the rotunda of the US Capitol.

His son George - the 43rd president of the United States - and other loved ones are expected to travel on the plane as well as his service dog Sully.

Family spokesman Jim McGrath posted a touching photo of the yellow Labrador near Bush's casket on Sunday with the phrase 'Mission Complete.'

Scroll down for video

George H.W. Bush's service dog Sully (pictured with his casket on Sunday) will accompany his casket aboard the presidential plane to Washington

Bush received Sully in June from America's VetDogs non-profit organisation.

The president had a form of Parkinson's disease, and Sully could open doors, pick up items and summon help.

Sully will return to America's VetDogs in New York before joining the Water Reed National Military Medical Centre's Facility Dog Programme, KTRK-TV in Houston reported.

Bush died Friday at age 94, at his home in Houston - 'a very gentle and peaceful passing,' his lifelong friend and advisor James Baker said Sunday on ABC's 'This Week.'

Only the second president to see his son follow him to the Oval Office, he will be honored with four days of services and tributes in Washington and in Texas, where he will be buried on Thursday.

The high point of the commemorations will come Wednesday with a state funeral at Washington National Cathedral - the first presidential funeral since Gerald Ford died in 2006.

Bush (left, with Bill Clinton) received Sully in June from America's VetDogs non-profit organisation

The president had a form of Parkinson's disease, and Sully could open doors, pick up items and summon help

America's farewell to Bush will begin with his remains being flown aboard the presidential Boeing 747 - made available at President Donald Trump's direction - from Houston to Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, on Monday.

By tradition, the plane is only known as Air Force One when the sitting president is on board.

McGrath said the flights to carry Bush are being dubbed 'Special Air Mission 41.'

'A beautiful day In Texas - 'ceiling and visibility unlimited,' Mr. President,' he wrote - using a phrase that Bush held dear from his time in the Navy, and one used by his family and friends to discreetly spread the news of his death.

After a speech from Vice President Mike Pence, Bush will lie in state in the US Capitol from Monday evening until Wednesday morning, under the watchful gaze of an around-the-clock honor guard.

Thousands are expected to pay their respects.

The casket will then be transported to the cathedral for Wednesday's funeral service - the fourth held there for a former president.

Jim McGrath said the flights to carry Bush are being dubbed 'Special Air Mission 41'

A portrait of President George H.W. Bush is draped with black cloth at the White House

Joint service members rehearse the arrival of former President George H.W. Bush to the US Capitol, a day before he will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda in Washington

Dozens of foreign leaders and US luminaries are expected.

Trump - who has often clashed with the Bush family - has declared Wednesday a national day of mourning, and said he will attend the funeral.

Former Canadian prime minister Brian Mulroney told Politico he will deliver one of several eulogies, at Bush's request.

The casket will then be flown back to Houston, where the former head of state will lie in repose at St Martin's Episcopal Church - where the Bushes worshipped for decades - until Thursday's funeral service.

The remains will then be transported by train for interment at the George Bush Presidential Library in College Station, Texas.

Bush will be buried next to his wife Barbara, who died in April, and their daughter Robin, who died of leukemia at age three.

He was a decorated World War II fighter pilot, former head of the Central Intelligence Agency, and vice president to Ronald Reagan before winning the White House.

A painted portrait of the late George H.W. Bush - painted by his son George W. Bush - and a memorial wreath grace the atrium area of the George W. Bush Presidential Library in Texas

Baker, who served Bush as secretary of state, joined others in paying warm tribute on Sunday television talk shows.

Baker called him 'far and away the best one-term president we have ever had,' alluding to Bush's single biggest political failure - his loss in the 1992 election to Bill Clinton.

Baker instead emphasized his friend's foreign policy successes: navigating the end of the Cold War, negotiating two nuclear arms reduction treaties, and summoning a global coalition to eject Iraqi troops from Kuwait in the first Gulf War.

Colin Powell, who was chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during that war, said he was confident in Bush's leadership because 'he knew what combat was all about. He knew it meant the death of people... He wanted to avoid a war.'

The former president had struggled for years with Parkinson's disease, which left him wheelchair-bound and often hospitalized - including after Barbara's death.

Last week, things took a decided turn for the worse, Baker said on ABC.

When an aide told Bush that Baker was visiting Friday, 'he perked up. He opened his eyes. He looked at me, he says, 'Hey, Bake. Where we going?''

'We're going to heaven,' Baker said.

Bush replied: 'Good, that's where I want to go.'

Baker said Bush's last words, in a phone conversation with son George, were: 'I love you, too.'Prime Minister Scott Morrison appears to have gone to great lengths to secure his position in the top job.

Federal Liberal Party ministers were called to an unscheduled meeting on Monday night to discuss proposed changes to the threshold needed to oust a party leader.

Mr Morrison assured Australia that his party had decided to return the decision making to the people.

He held a conference after the closed-door meeting, speaking of a 'deep commitment to give the power to the people.'

'When we go to the next election, and I lead the party, you elect the Liberal party and I will be the prime minister. I will remain as prime minister, and I will continue to serve as prime minister,' he said.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison appears to be going to great lengths to secure his position in the top job

Mr Morrison ascended to the top of the Coalition through a leadership spill only four short months ago, when former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull was challenged by Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton.

Mr Morrison said he had reflected deeply on the wishes of the Australian people after the coup which installed him in the top job.

"They're sick of it and we're sick of it and it has to stop. That's why we've put this rule in place," the prime minister told reporters in Canberra on Monday night.

Liberal party colleagues were told of the plans to make it harder for MP's to vote out a leader.

His hoped to increase the amount of members who would need to vote against him to cause a spill.

Mr Morrison's amendment - which was passed through the meeting with no changes - requires two thirds of the MP's to vote against the standing prime minister.

Four of Australia's previous five leaders, Mr Morrison, Malcolm Turnbull (pictured), Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd all challenged standing Prime Minister's to take over government

As it currently stands, only 50 per cent of votes are needed for a change in leadership. If no majority is won, the person with the highest amount of votes becomes leader.

He reportedly sent an alert to fellow parliamentarians to abandon a Christmas party gathering to discuss the new proposal.

'It feels the vulnerability that Scott Morrison clearly feels, even if he were to win the next election,' political correspondent Laura Tingle told 7:30.

It comes after a number of leadership spills in recent years that have seen a quick succession of politicians land in the top job.

Four of Australia's previous five leaders, Mr Morrison, Malcolm Turnbull, Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd all challenged standing prime minister's to take over government.

Kevin Rudd was replaced as Labor prime minister by Julia Gillard in 2010 before he returned to the top job in 2013

Australian politics has been peppered with leadership changes over the past decade with both major parties dumping prime ministers.

Kevin Rudd was replaced as Labor prime minister by Julia Gillard in 2010 before he returned to the top job in 2013.

Mr Turnbull seized the keys to The Lodge from Tony Abbott in 2015 before being ousted as prime minister in August.

"We've seen it on both sides of politics. We understand that disappointment, we understand that frustration. We acknowledge it and we take responsibility for it," Mr Morrison said.

Labor changed party rules after Ms Gillard was toppled by Mr Rudd in 2013 to ensure leadership contenders must gain a majority of votes in the caucus and in a grassroots party ballot.This is the shocking moment a daredevil plunges into a pool of hungry alligators after a rope he is swinging on breaks.

Footage captured Michael Womer, from Orlando, Florida, USA, as he climbs down a wooden step ladder and throws the alligators food as he nears their pit.

Dozens of the hungry reptiles can be seen swarming in the water as they eagerly await to be fed.

Michael Womer, from Orlando, Florida, USA, stands near the alliagtors pit and throws them food

Mr Womer grabs a a rope swing above the enclosure and attempts to swing across - but it snaps from his weight and he is plunged into the alligator infested water.

It is not clear if Mr Womer suffered major injuries after falling into the pool.

Michael Womer, also known as the 'Gator Crusader', loves performing dangerous stunts with alligators.

He said: 'I love to swing out over the gators on a rope like a real life Indiana Jones or like the vintage video game Pitfall.

Mr Womer grabs a a rope swing above the enclosure and attempts to swing across

'I try to video every performance because you never know what you might catch or which may be your last.

'People ask "do mistakes ever happen?" - here is a perfect example.

'I love my alligators more than most people love their own children.

'I put on adventurous, educational demonstrations for guests around the world sharing my love for gators and crocodile Conservation.

The rope snaps from his weight and he is plunged into the alligator infested water

'Hopefully by the end of my talk you too will love alligators just a bit more.

'That is my reason for everything I do.

'I am more than aware of the danger and the risk, but if I can help people appreciate gators more and maybe even donate to croc conservation then all the danger is more than worth it to me.'A woman tried to bribe a beautician with her child's shoes, fake money and even a pasty - then branded her 'disgusting' when she declined to do her lashes.

Coll Livia, who co-owns Bombshell Studio in Wigan, Greater Manchester, was subjected to a bizarre 10-message exchange in which a customer begged for a 35 Russian lash treatment despite not having the funds.

The unnamed woman offered 70 in fake notes and later threw in a pasty and a pair of her child's new trainers from B&M to sweeten the deal.

Coll Livia (left) was shocked when she received a bizarre run of messages offering her children's trainers, fake cash and a pasty (right)

Mother-of-one Coll, 28, politely declined the offer and proposed an alternative slot for her to have the treatment after her partner had been paid.

Enraged by her not being open to the offer the woman furiously messaged Coll branding her 'disgusting' and sniping 'it's not like you need the money'.

Bizarre beauty salon bribe exchange in full: Customer: 'Iya Coll luv can you do me a big favour x' Coll: 'Go on xxx' Customer: 'Me fellas not been paid today and I am desperate for my app tomos luv if I pay u in fake notes and give u double wud u mind so u would be getting double the money we av loads x' Coll: 'No sorry X I'll work something out so I can squeeze you in when you have the cash xxx' Customer: 'Pls luv x' Coll: 'I can't sorry chick xxx' Customer: 'Ffs I am really desperate come on luv I'll even bring u a pasty for ya dinner x' Customer: 'Got some nice trainers as well from b&m u can take for ur little en she will look lovely in them they av never been worn x' Customer: 'Only got them yesterday or I can give u receipt an y can get the cash back of them and I'll owe u next time x' Customer: 'Disgusting not even bothering to reply to me it's not like u need the money even offered u my kids trainers for your little one won't bother in future x' Advertisement

Coll, from St Helens, Merseyside, said: 'I was shocked when I saw the messages. She's being serious, it's 100 per cent brazen. I would obviously never take fake money, I want paying in real money.

'We do get people that ask can we do treatments on tic [on credit]. You wouldn't take a basket of clothes to a till and ask for that without paying, it's ridiculous.

'Since I shared the messages about this different people have been in touch and it sounds like she's been trying it on at beauty salons round Wigan.

'I shouldn't have been surprised as you wouldn't believe the messages we get as a business when it comes to paying, it's horrendous.

'We had someone in a few weeks back who "forgot" their money and the boyfriend offered to give us his Rolex watch.

'It obviously wasn't real you could tell as it was off-gold, that's the kind of stuff we deal with. We never did get the money for that treatment.'

Coll didn't reply to the last message and has since blocked the number. The customer didn't arrive for her pre-booked appointment on Friday morning.

Coll said: 'Thank god she didn't turn up at 9.30am as planned, we would have had to turn her away.

'She's been here three or four times before but she won't be coming back.

'If she would have messaged me and explained she had no money I would have been quite lenient with her, but admitting to having fake notes is bad.'

The business owner quipped that if the woman had suggested a different snack she may have been tempted by the offer.

The beauty salon co-owner (right, with a pasty) has been inspired to host Prosecco and pasty nights after the strange offer (left)

The beauty salon responded to the bizarre offer of a pasty as part payment for a treatment by hosting festive events

Coll and 34-year-old co-owner Sarah Sheridan are now planning to tweak their festive 'prosecco and mince pie' event to a 'prosecco and pasty' celebration to commemorate the bizarre proposal.

Coll said: 'We have plenty of paying customers so definitely don't need her custom.

'Since I posted about what happened I've received multiple offers from people offering to buy me a pasty.

'We had originally organised a prosecco and mince pie event but now we're having a pasty party with prosecco.'

The pasty and prosecco events will start on December 18 and run through to December 23.This is the moment a 15ft long crocodile was caught four days after it is believed to have eaten a fisherman.

Locals began hunting the 1,100lb reptile on Tuesday after the mutilated body of Cornelio Bonite, 33, was found on a river bank in the Palawan region, Philippines.

The victim's right arm and left foot were missing. The beast was trapped on Saturday morning and hauled ashore before being taken into captivity - where vets will begin the grim task of establishing what its last meal was.

The enormous 15ft long beast was discovered by locals in Palawan region, Philippines, four days after it was believed to have killed a fisherman

The croc is now being examined to see what its last meal was after the fisherman lost an arm and a foot

Local trawler-man Vincent Pamplona said: 'The crocodile was a threat to humans so we were determined to catch it. People were afraid. I am sure the crocodile ate the fisherman.

'I am relieved that the crocodile has been caught. But there are many, many more crocodiles in the river, so fishing is dangerous.'

Jovic Fabello, spokesman for the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development Staff (PCSDS), said the saltwater crocodile has been estimated to weigh around 1,100lbs. It was found in an estuarine river after being trapped by experts from the Palawan Wildlife Refuge and Rescue Center (PWRRC).

Jovic said the crocodile will be taken to to Puerto Princesa City today where it will undergo a 'gastrointestinal decontamination' procedure to inspect the content of its stomach.

Pictures showed villagers hauling the enormous beast onto a flatbed truck to be taken away for examination

The saltwater crocodile has been estimated to weigh around 1,100lbs according to an environment spokesperson

He said: 'We have yet to determine its gender. We are still arranging its cage / housing. Once it arrives here on Monday, we will determine that and we will conduct a health check.

'We will also be able to confirm whether or not it killed the fisherman that was found dead in the area.

'The crocodile will remain under the custody of authorities there. They cannot transport the crocodile because of the strong current. It needs to be kept away from people. It cannot be exposed to people because they might harm it.'

Ensign Allison Tindog, spokesperson of the Coast Guard District Palawan, said that the crocodile will be transported to Puerto Princesa by the Parola-class patrol vessel BRP Cabra.

He said: 'The Coast Guard through the leadership of Commodore Allen Toribio will help in transporting this large crocodile to Puerto Princesa on Monday. It will be here in six to eight hours.'

The body of Cornelio Bonite, 33, is recovered with a missing arm and leg after the suspected crocodile attack in Palawan, PhilippinesPink smoke quickly turned black after a car at the centre of an elaborate gender reveal burst into flames.

The disaster unfolded on Sunday afternoon at a gender reveal party - during which expecting parents share their budding baby's sex for the first time - in Meningie, 150km southeast of Adelaide.

But the new mother and father's excitement quickly turned to terror when the burnout they had planned to spit out blue or pink smoke caught on fire.

A couple's gender reveal party was centred on this cars' tyres, which had been rigged to spurt pink smoke

While most couples opt for a colourful cake or bursting balloons, gender reveal parties have become increasingly popular across the country.

In video footage obtained by Seven News, a crowd of excited onlookers watch the black commodore as it starts its engine.

Pink smoke is then seen spurting out of the car's tyres as bystanders cheer.

But the adulation turns to screams and scrambling after the rear passenger's-side tyre catches on fire.

Black smoke replaces the pink hue, with one of the witnesses running to the windscreen and telling the driver to stop revving the engine.

But the celebrations quickly quietened after the rear tyres burst into flames (pictured)

One of the men at the party can be heard saying he has a fire extinguisher in the back of his car and presumably put out the blaze.

But South Australian Police condemned the event, saying it could have caused a bushfire.

That's exactly what happened in the United States only days before this fire occurred, when a baby boy's gender reveal started a 45,000 acre fire through Arizona.Theresa May joked Jeremy Corbyn's Brexit TV debate plan would mean she misses Strictly Come Dancing - just days after the Labour called for the showdown to be early enough he could watch the I'm a Celebrity final.

The PM's jibe at Mr Corbyn today after Downing Street accused the Labour leader of 'running scared' of a head to head clash.

Both leaders have backed a debate on Sunday night - two days before the crunch vote on Mrs May's Brexit deal in the Commons - but failed to agree on format.

Mrs May wants the debate on BBC One and has accepted the broadcaster's idea of a head-to-head debate alongside questions from a panel.

Mr Corbyn had backed an ITV plan of a simple one-on-one contest. He has accepted this could be on the BBC but wants the simpler format.

There are growing doubts as to whether the debate would take place at all amid continued wrangling over the format.

Theresa May (pictured today on This Morning) joked Jeremy Corbyn's Brexit TV debate plan would mean she misses Strictly Come Dancing - just days after the Labour called for the showdown to be early enough he could watch the I'm a Celebrity final

The BBC is planning to screen a Brexit showdown between Theresa May and Mr Corbyn (pictured last week on This Morning) on Sunday - two days before the crucial Commons vote on December 11

The debate on December 9 could go into the 8pm slot on BBC1, or the 7pm slot on ITV

Mrs May told This Morning she was 'keen' to take part in a debate.

She said: 'There are discussions about where exactly it is going to be.

'There are variations on this. I think he said he wanted to be on ITV so he could watch the final of I'm a Celebrity.

'I think his proposed time means I would miss Strictly - I hate to say it on ITV but I'm a bit of a Strictly fan.'

Earlier, a Number 10 spokesman said: 'A week ago, the PM challenged Jeremy Corbyn to a head-to-head debate. He accepted.

'Since then, in order to accommodate his confected demands, we've moved our preferred day, accommodated the addition of social media questions at Labour's request, and agreed there should be maximum head-to-head time, while still including voices from employers and civil society in the debate.

'But if Jeremy Corbyn doesn't agree to what's now on the table - a debate on prime time with the Prime Minister - the public will rightly conclude he's running scared.

'So let's get on with it.'

But Labour hit back, arguing it was the Prime Minister who was trying to avoid the confrontation.

'As she did during the general election campaign, Theresa May is running away from the scrutiny of a real head-to-head debate with Jeremy Corbyn,' a spokesman said.

'Why else would she not accept ITV's offer of a straightforward head-to-head debate, as Jeremy has done?

'Instead, her team are playing games and prefer the BBC's offer, which would provide less debating time and risk a confusing mish-mash for the viewing public.'

In a statement issued over the weekend, the BBC said: 'Our proposal is to broadcast a programme which includes both a head-to-head debate between the Prime Minister and the leader of the opposition and also an opportunity to hear from a wider range of voices.

Meanwhile, leading Tory Eurosceptics led by Boris Johnson (pictured last week in the Commons) are warning that the BBC's planned leaders' TV debate will 'breach the concept of impartiality' unless it involves a prominent Brexiteer

'After all, a broad range of views on this issue is held by the public and by Parliamentarians - from those who want a different form of Brexit to those who want another public vote - and we believe that should be reflected in the debate.'

Meanwhile, leading Tory Eurosceptics are warning that the BBC's planned leaders' TV debate will 'breach the concept of impartiality' unless it involves a prominent Brexiteer.

Channel 4 is planning to steal a march by staging its own debate with other high-profile Brexiteers and Remainers - reportedly wanting to sign up Tony Blair (pictured today on GMB)

However The Daily Telegraph reported Boris Johnson, Dominic Raab and other former Cabinet ministers have written to BBC chairman Sir David Clementi to complain the views of the 17.4 million people who voted for Brexit would be 'nowhere represented' in the discussion.

They noted that both Mrs May and Mr Corbyn voted Remain in the referendum, adding: 'They are both wedded to slightly different models of staying in the customs union.'

They said that a senior Brexiteer should be included in the main line-up and not just on a proposed panel.

'This is, after all, not a general election and the Government or the opposition cannot be allowed to play fast and loose with representative democracy,' they said.

If agreement cannot be reached, the leaders could well try to press ahead with separate programmes.

Channel 4 is planning to steal a march by staging its own debate with other high-profile Brexiteers and Remainers.

Mr Johnson last week condemned the idea of a head-to-head showdown between Mr Corbyn and Mrs May, saying they were both Remainers.

However, friends of the former foreign secretary have made clear he is not interested in the 'second string' clash - and the Remain camp would be unwilling to field Mr Blair.MPs won't know details of the proposed post-Brexit immigration system when they vote on Theresa May's deal, it emerged today.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid admitted it is 'very unlikely' that the government plans will be published before December 11.

The delay means the Commons will be largely in the dark about the shape of the future arrangements when the showdown happens.

The PM had hoped to trumpet tough new measures as one of the biggest wins in the package she had thrashed out with the EU. But the process has been hampered by wrangling between No10 and the Home Office.

Home Secretary Sajid Javid (pictured) admitted it is 'very unlikely' that the government plans will be published before December 11

Mr Javid has previously expressed his hope that the long-awaited white paper would be published before December 11.

But he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'It's unlikely, actually very unlikely, to be published before the vote. It will be published soon.'

Visitors from Singapore and South Korea will be able to skip passport queues Tourists from outside Europe will be allowed to use electronic passport gates at airports for the first time. Home Secretary Sajid Javid confirmed visitors from seven other countries could use self-service e-gates to speed up queues at passport control. Currently only people from within the European Economic Area can use the automated gates, while those from other nations must go to manned kiosks. But access to e-passport gates will be extended to visitors from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore and South Korea from next summer. Mr Javid told the Commons: Its very important that we remain open and global with our new immigration system and that we also make the best use of new technology. You will have heard that the chancellor announced in the Budget that we will be expanding egates to five other countries  the US, Canada, Australia, Sweden and japan. We will now also be adding Singapore and South Korea to that list. Officials say it will cover more than 6million extra international travellers a year arriving in the UK. Mr Javid said it was another step towards Britain having an open and global immigration system. Advertisement

Mr Javid and Chancellor Philip Hammond are reported to be pressing for the Government finally to abandon the target of reducing net migration below 100,000 a year - a move which Mrs May is said to be resisting.

Explaining the delay, the Home Secretary said: 'This is the biggest change in our immigration system in over four decades - the most significant change we're going to see in immigration as we take control of our immigration system, so it's important that we work on the details, that we listen to people, to businesses and others and we get the details right.'

He said the new immigration system would be based on skills, and not the nationality of people.

Ministers are planning to introduce new immigration rules that bring an end to free movement from 2021, after the end of the post-exit implementation period.

Details of the proposed regime were initially due to be published as long as a year ago, but they were held back while the independent Migration Advisory Committee carried out a detailed analysis, which was published in September.

Mrs May is staring down the barrel of almost certain defeat in the vote on her Brexit deal on December 11.

A heavy loss could bring the PM's time in Downing Street to a chaotic halt - although allies hope going down by a small margin could allow her to try again.

Meanwhile, demands for a second referendum are mounting after the dramatic resignation of universities minister Sam Gyimah over the weekend.

Senior Labour figures including shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer and deputy leader Tom Watson are thought to be ramping up pressure on Jeremy Corbyn to back a fresh national ballot.

Environment Secretary Michael Gove admitted yesterday that a referendum was a potential outcome if Mrs May loses, but said it would 'rip the social fabric of the country'. He also insisted Leave would win by a bigger margin than in 2016.

MPs across Parliament have angrily accused ministers of ignoring the will of the House after they said only that they would release a 'full reasoned political statement' on the legal position.

It follows a binding Commons vote last month requiring the Government to lay before Parliament 'any legal advice in full' - including that given by the Attorney General - relating to the Withdrawal Agreement.The whereabouts of Chinese scientist He Jiankui, who claims to have created the world's first gene-edited babies, remain unknown amid rumours that he has been arrested.

Reports claimed He was placed under effective house arrest in Shenzhen after making an appearance at the Second International Summit on Human Genome Editing in Hong Kong last Wednesday.

However, claims of He's detention were dismissed by his former-employer, Southern University of Science and Technology, according to South China Morning Post. The university declined to elaborate further.

Chinese scientist He Jianjui speaks at the Second International Summit on Human Genome Editing at the University of Hong Kong on Wednesday. His whereabouts remain unknown after the summit, according to media reports

He presents his work on DNA manipulation during the conference in Hong Kong

The scientist sparked global controversy last week when he announced in a YouTube video that he had successfully used a gene-editing tool to modify the DNA of two embryos.

Apple Daily on Sunday reported that the scientist had been brought back to Shenzhen by the university's president, Chen Shiyi. The two also had a six-hour meeting on He's controversial research.

Chen is currently under house arrest on campus, the report said, adding that there were security personnel standing guard on university grounds.

When asked about He's reported arrest, a spokeswoman for the Shenzhen-based university told South China Morning Post: 'Right now nobody's information is accurate, only the official channels are.'

Zhou Xiaoqin, left, and Qin Jinzhou, an embryologist who were part of the team working with scientist He Jiankui, view a time lapse image of embryos on a computer screen at a lab in Shenzhen in south China's Guangdong province

But she declined to elaborate on this matter, saying: 'We cannot answer any questions regarding the matter right now, but if we have any information, we will update it through our official channels.'

The scientist gave his first public remarks on the DNA manipulation at the Hong Kong conference, saying that he modified the genetic material of twin girls to make them resistant to infection with the AIDS virus.

He's controversial work, which earned him the nickname of 'Chinese Frankenstein', was condemned by the medical community and Chinese health officials, who said they know nothing of the experiment.

He is also facing an investigation from the Ministry of Science and Technology, which has ordered him to stop any research.An eco-friendly author has been left raging after copies of his anti-plastic book were dispatched wrapped in plastic.

Environmentalist Martin Dorey wrote the book to try and help people reduce the amount of single-use plastic they use in their everyday lives.

But he was left stunned when each copy of his book 'No. More. Plastic' was sent out by the American distributor coated in cellophane.

Mr Dorey, 51, of Bude in Cornwall, called the mix-up by the distributors an 'absolute shambles' and said it highlighted how we use plastic 'with our eyes closed'.

Environmentalist Martin Dorey was left stunned when each copy of his book 'No. More. Plastic' was sent out by the American distributor coated in cellophane

Posting a picture of it on Instagram, he said: 'So here's my book. We toiled hard on this. We worked with the printer to make it one of the UK's most environmental books this year.

'It's an absolute shambles, undoes all our hard work and proves, once again, that we are using plastic with our eyes closed.

'We are sleep walking into oblivion, using plastic without thinking because it's what we've been doing, it's the way we do things.'

Mr Dorey, who started the 2 Minute Beach Clean campaign in 2009 to encourage people to pick up plastic washed up on our beaches, says major change is needed in the way we use plastic.

On his post he added: 'The thing is that EVERYTHING HAS TO CHANGE if we are to avoid f***ing it up for good. We have to reassess everything. Your reusable mug will not be good enough to save the world.

'We all have to do everything at every level to stop the stupid senseless use of plastic. I know my publishers are working hard to stop this in future but it still happens further down the line.

The eco-friendly author has been left raging after copies of his anti-plastic book were dispatched wrapped in plastic

'It makes me very sad indeed that we are so clever, and yet so stupid.

'More news when I get it, but for now we don't know who is responsible.'

He later added: 'The point is that this book is about no more plastic and some idiot shrink-wrapped it in plastic without thinking.

'We're sleep-walking into oblivion with plastic and we need to change everything from the bottom up.

'We need to understand that this is not good enough.'

The publishers Penguin has reportedly contacted distributors of the book in America to stop the books from being covered in plastic.

A Penguin spokesman said: 'We worked very hard to ensure our book was environmentally friendly at every stage of the book process.

'This photo highlights brilliantly the over-use of plastic in our everyday lives and I hope the small positive is that this image might make people stop and think, as we head into a busy Christmas period of shopping and wrapping.'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.This is the moment a Russian reality star launched a sickening jealous attack on his girlfriend after she admitted a man 'hugged' her on the show.

Andrey Shabarin, 34, attacked his girlfriend Rozalia Raison, 21, during the popular Russian show 'Dom 2' - meaning House 2.

He can be seen repeatedly beating his 21-year-old lover around the head as another man desperately tried to intervene.

Sickening footage captures the moment a Russian reality star (in the white shirt) launched a brutal attack on his girlfriend after she admitted a man 'hugged' her on the show

Andrey Shabarin (in the white shirt), 34, attacked his girlfriend Rozalia Raison (in pink), 21, during the popular Russian show 'Dom 2' - meaning House 2

In the show, contestants have to build a home while trying to find a partner in the process. Couples then compete for the house itself.

The incident was filmed by hidden cameras on the TV set in the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean.

The clip shows one of the contestants, a shirtless man named Valery Blumennkrants, saying: 'Did those men touch you?'

Raison, a blonde woman sitting on the couch, replies: 'Well, they kind of hugged me.'

The blonde's confession apparently throws Shabarin, who is dressed in a white T-shirt, into a jealous rage and he immediately attacks Raison.

Reports said that the show's bosses decided to kick Shabarin (right) off the show following the incident. According to local media, Raison (left), who forgave her partner for the abuse, left the show as well

He can be seen rushing towards her, grabbing her by the hair and hitting her on the head.

Raison screams while asking her lover to stop hitting her. Blumennkrants can be seen trying to stop the assault as Shabarin violently pulls Raison's hair.

Reports said that the show's bosses decided to kick Shabarin off the show following the incident.

According to local media, Raison, who forgave her partner for the abuse, left the show as well.

The couple are reportedly trying to rebuild their relationship.Qatar is to leave the OPEC oil producers' cartel next month in order for the Gulf state to focus on gas production, the country's new Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi announced in a surprise move on Monday.

Qatar has been a member of OPEC since 1961, and the decision to pull out comes at a turbulent time in Gulf politics, with Doha under a boycott by former neighbouring allies including Saudi Arabia for 18 months.

'Qatar has decided to withdraw its membership from OPEC effective January 2019 and this decision was communicated to OPEC this morning,' Kaabi said at a Doha press conference.

Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, Qatari energy minister, announces during a press conference in Doha that his country will leave OPEC in January to focus on gas production

Kaabi, who also heads state-owned Qatar Petroleum, denied the move was linked to the feud with Saudi Arabia and its allies.

The decision was 'technical and strategic' and had 'nothing to do with the blockade,' he said.

Qatar would continue to produce oil and seek deals in countries including Latin America's top oil producer Brazil, said Kaabi.

But gas production would remain the top priority for Qatar, which is the world's the biggest exporter of liquified natural gas (LNG).

'We don't have great potential (in oil), we are very realistic,' said Kaabi, who described himself as 'Mr Gas' during the conference. 'Our potential is gas.

Qatar has been a member of OPEC since 1961, but is currently under a boycott by former neighbouring allies including Saudi Arabia for 18 months

'I think it's inefficient to focus on something that's not your core business and something that's not going to benefit you long-term.'

In September Qatar announced it planned to boost gas production to 110 million tonnes per year by 2024.

Qatar's oil production is around 600,000 barrels per day and it is the world's 17th largest producer of crude oil, according to specialist website, world data.info.

It also only holds around two percent of the world's global oil reserves, according to the CIA World Factbook.

Kaabi said OPEC had been informed of the decision on Monday ahead of the announcement and that he would still attend the organisation's Vienna meeting later this week, his 'first and last' as energy minister.

Al-Kaabi denied the move was linked to the feud with Saudi Arabia and its allies despite speculation in the media

That meeting is expected to set a policy for 2019 and despite Qatar's announcement, oil prices soared on Monday after Russia and Saudi Arabia renewed a pact to cap output.

OPEC is dominated by oil-rich Saudi, which along with its allies has had no ties with Qatar since June 2017.

Relations between Riyadh and Doha are at an all-time low as a result of the crisis, which has seen Saudi-led countries accuse Qatar of supporting terrorism and being too close to Iran.

Qatar refutes the allegations and claims rivals want to overthrow its government.Theresa May clashed brutally with Phillip Schofield today as he jibed that her Brexit deal is a 'disaster'.

During a tense grilling on ITV's This Morning, the Prime Minister admitted she was having a 'tough time' and finding it 'difficult' to get the package she has thrashed out with Brussels past the Commons.

But despite a wall of opposition from Tory rebels, Labour and the DUP, she insisted the government will 'hold our nerve' and press on with doing the best thing for the UK.

Mrs May could not hide her irritation at times as she was asked by presenters Phillip and Rochelle Humes whether she will quit if she loses next week.

'It''s a tough time. It is a difficult time,' she said.

Mrs May was asked stingingly if she will still 'have a job in two weeks' time' - and at one point demanded that Philip let her 'finish a sentence'.

But she used the platform to appeal once again for MPs to recognise the benefits she had secured in negotiations.

'What I've got is a deal that delivers,' she said.

In an interview on ITV's This Morning, Theresa May said: 'What I've got is a deal that delivers.'

In at times tetchy exchanges with Mrs May during the interview, Phillip Schofield said: 'It looks like the end is a disaster.'

In niggly exchanges, Philip said: 'It looks like the end is a disaster.'

But the premier replied: 'No, the end is a deal - a good deal.'

She said the UK must 'hold our nerve in getting this over the line so we can deliver on Brexit and people can that better future.'

Philip also demanded to know, 'What have you won that we didn't have before?'

Mrs May insisted: 'What I've got is we end free movement  we control who comes in to our country.

'We end sending vast sums of money to the EU.

'We will end the jurisdiction of the European Courts  we will make our own laws.'

Later she added: 'It is an important moment in our history. This is not, 'oh well it's any old vote'.

'This is about delivering what people voted for when they voted to leave the EU and I think that's important for politicians t remember.'

Mrs May dodged questions about whether she will resign if she loses the crunch vote on December 11 - saying she was 'focused' on winning it.

At one point the frustrated premier urged Philip to let her 'finish a sentence' as he harried her with barbs including: 'Will you still have a job in two weeks' time?'

She shot back: 'I will still have a job in two weeks time. My job is making sure we do what the public asked us for.'

Asked how she personally was coping the her relentless workload and pressure, Mrs May said: 'It is tough, in any job there are times its really tough and you have to work through it. In politics it's the same.'

Government's own legal advice admits the UK CAN'T escape Irish border backstop unless EU acts in 'bad faith' The UK can only escape the Irish border 'backstop' if there is 'clear' proof the EU is acting in bad faith, a government legal assessment of the Brexit deal revealed today. The summary states that the deal 'does not contain any provision on its termination' - fuelling fears that the UK will be stuck in Brussels' orbit for good. It also confirms that there is no way of 'unilaterally' leaving the controversial arrangement to avoid a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic. The only way to break the tie is to convince a tribunal there is 'clear evidence' that the EU is deliberately avoiding finalising a trade agreement. But many MPs believe the government is holding back even more damaging material in the full written advice from the Attorney General Geoffrey Cox. The eminent QC and strident Brexiteer was a key figure in forcing Theresa May's deal through the Cabinet - but there are claims his private legal guidance warned the UK could be stuck 'indefinitely' in the Irish border backstop. Despite the DUP, Tory rebels and Labour joining forces to pass a Commons motion demanding the full legal advice last month, ministers have only issued the summary. They insist releasing the full material would break convention and undermine the operation of government. Boris Johnson today joined condemnation of the refusal from Labour and the DUP, saying it was a 'scandal' and pointing out that Mrs May previously called for advice on the Iraq War to be released. If the government does not change course, Speaker John Bercow could launch contempt proceedings - triggering a formal investigation in the PM or her most senior colleagues. The potential punishments include suspension or expulsion from the House, although they have not been deployed for decades. Advertisement

She said her husband was a 'huge support' and was telling her to keep doing what it 'right for the country'.

'Philip is a huge support to me he says I must do what I believe is right,' she said.

'I believe what is right for this country.is let's get this deal done.'

Mrs May said she hoped MPs would 'put the national interest first' and said members of the public were backing her.

'What people think about this is important. Yesterday in my constituency, in Twyford, I was switching on the Christmas lights,' she said.

'A woman said to me 'when you say you want to get this done you are speaking for me'.

'That's important. For us as MPs it's not just about what we think, it's about what you're doing for people.'

The premier also insisted she still wants a TV debate against Jeremy Corbyn - despite talks seemingly having hit an impasse.

Mrs May has signed up to a BBC programme on Sunday - but the Labour leader favours an ITV show the same evening.

The PM said she hoped the face-off would still go ahead, and joked that she was worried the ITV option would stop her watching Strictly Come Dancing.

After the interview, the PM's spokesman was asked repeatedly why she did not rule out a second referendum.

The spokesman said: 'I don't believe she could have been any clearer on any number of occasions and she does not support a second referendum.'

He added: 'I think she already has done. There is not going to be a second referendum.'

The appearance comes as Mrs May faces the threat of being held in contempt of Parliament.

She is resisting huge pressure to disclose the private opinion Attorney General Geoffrey Cox gave on the package she has thrashed out with Brussels.

The eminent QC and strident Brexiteer was a key figure in forcing the deal through the Cabinet - but there are claims his formal written advice was far bleaker and he warned the UK would be stuck 'indefinitely' in the Irish border backstop.

Despite a Commons motion being passed demanding the full document, ministers are insisting they will only release a summary as the full material would break convention and undermine the operation of government.

Boris Johnson today joined condemnation of the refusal, saying it was a 'scandal' and pointing out that Mrs May previously called for advice on the Iraq War to be released.

Boris Johnson (right) has joined demands for the full legal advice from Attorney General Geoffrey Cox (left) to be published

If the government does not cave in by the time Mr Cox makes a statement to the Commons this evening, Speaker John Bercow could launch contempt proceedings - triggering a formal investigation in the PM or her most senior colleagues.

The potential punishments include suspension or expulsion from the House, although they have not been deployed for decades.

The wrangling comes as the bitter row over Mrs May's Brexit plan reaches the endgame, with just over a week until the crunch Commons vote.

Oil tycoon says Theresa May's Brexit deal is 'workable' Leading businessman Sir Ian Wood has said Theresa May's Brexit deal is 'workable' and is better than the current situation with Europe. He said that the UK cannot afford to leave without a deal and that the plan now needs to 'move ahead.' The businessman said that Brexit could also bring benefits to Scottish fishing. Sir Ian, who made his name developing the Wood Group into a global oilfield services company, said that dealing with Brexit had been an 'extraordinarily difficult task.' He told BBC Good Morning Scotland: 'There is not a solution which anyone, or I suspect even more than 50% of people, would really say 'that's a really good solution'. 'There are two extremes and all kinds of ranges in between. 'I frankly think we do need to move ahead. We cannot afford to have no outcome. 'It would be bad for Europe and it would be bad for the UK and it would take a long time to work our way through that and frankly I think the proposal that's on the table, I think it is workable, I think it is better than we have, we're out of Common Market membership but we're retaining some of the advantages so I think it's better than we have, and I think it's a workable proposal.' Advertisement

As tensions rise, the DUP has said it ready to sign a joint letter with Labour complaining that ministers are in contempt of parliament - after a Commons motion called for the details to be issued.

The party's Brexit spokesman Sammy Wilson said: 'If the Government attempt to ignore the will of the House of Commons and refuse to publish the full legal advice on the Irish backstop, the DUP will work with colleagues from right across the House to ensure they start to listen.'

In his Telegraph column, Mr Johnson also waded into the row, saying: 'It is a scandal that this is currently being withheld.

'You will recall that, when she was in opposition, the present Prime Minister wrote to the Labour government and complained of their failure to publish the Attorney General's advice on the Iraq war.

'She was right then  and how much more wrong and absurd is her position now, when you consider that this legal question is more important even than the Iraq war.'

It represents another massive hurdle for Mrs May to overcome as stares down the barrel of almost certain defeat on December 11.

A heavy loss could bring Mrs May's time in Downing Street to a chaotic halt - although allies hope going down by a small margin could allow her to try again.

Meanwhile, demands for a second referendum are mounting after the dramatic resignation of universities minister Sam Gyimah over the weekend.

Senior Labour figures including shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer and deputy leader Tom Watson are thought to be ramping up pressure on Jeremy Corbyn to back a fresh national ballot.

Environment Secretary Michael Gove admitted yesterday that a referendum was a potential outcome if Mrs May loses, but said it would 'rip the social fabric of the country'. He also insisted Leave would win by a bigger margin than in 2016.

Could vote on Brexit deal be delayed to save May's skin? As pressure grows on the PM, there are claims next week's Brexit vote could be shelved. Some Tory whips think a delay could help Theresa May to go back to the EU to renegotiate her deal to avoid a defeat in the Commons. Under the plan, if the situation was still looking dire at the end of this week the Government would abandon the vote. Mrs May could then attempt to reopen talks at a summit in Brussels. However, Sajid Javid - who was said to be one of the minister who back the idea - dismissed it today. And Downing Street insisted the vote will go ahead as planned. Advertisement

MPs across Parliament have angrily accused ministers of ignoring the will of the House after they said only that they would release a 'full reasoned political statement' on the legal position.

It follows a binding Commons vote last month requiring the Government to lay before Parliament 'any legal advice in full' - including that given by the Attorney General - relating to the Withdrawal Agreement.

Ministers chose not to oppose the motion - tabled by Labour under an arcane procedure known as the humble address - as they feared a damaging Commons defeat.

As pressure grows on the PM, there are claims next week's Brexit vote could be shelved.

The crucial vote could be postponed as Tory whips urge Theresa May to go back to EU to renegotiate her deal to avoid a defeat in the Commons.

If true, the Government would abandon the vote at the end of this week.

However, Sajid Javid - who was said to be one of the minister who back the idea - dismissed it today.

And Downing Street insisted the vote will go ahead as planned.

May jokes Corbyn's Brexit TV debate plan would mean she misses STRICTLY

Theresa May joked Jeremy Corbyn's Brexit TV debate plan would mean she misses Strictly Come Dancing - just days after the Labour called for the showdown to be early enough he could watch the I'm a Celebrity final.

The PM's jibe at Mr Corbyn today after Downing Street accused the Labour leader of 'running scared' of a head to head clash.

Both leaders have backed a debate on Sunday night - two days before the crunch vote on Mrs May's Brexit deal in the Commons - but failed to agree on format.

Theresa May (pictured today on This Morning) joked Jeremy Corbyn's Brexit TV debate plan would mean she misses Strictly Come Dancing - just days after the Labour called for the showdown to be early enough he could watch the I'm a Celebrity final

The BBC is planning to screen a Brexit showdown between Theresa May and Mr Corbyn (pictured last week on This Morning) on Sunday - two days before the crucial Commons vote on December 11

Mrs May wants the debate on BBC One and has accepted the broadcaster's idea of a head-to-head debate alongside questions from a panel.

Mr Corbyn had backed an ITV plan of a simple one-on-one contest. He has accepted this could be on the BBC but wants the simpler format.

There are growing doubts as to whether the debate would take place at all amid continued wrangling over the format.

Mrs May told This Morning she was 'keen' to take part in a debate.

She said: 'There are discussions about where exactly it is going to be.

'There are variations on this. I think he said he wanted to be on ITV so he could watch the final of I'm a Celebrity.

'I think his proposed time means I would miss Strictly - I hate to say it on ITV but I'm a bit of a Strictly fan.'

'Leave won!' Susanna Reid and Piers Morgan grill Tony Blair on Brexit referendum call

Tony Blair faced a fiery grilling today as he was challenged over why he is calling for another Brexit referendum just two years after the historic vote.

The ex-PM is stepping up his campaign for a so-called People's Vote and lashed Theresa May's deal for 'yielding' too much to Brussels.

Appearing on ITV's Good Morning Britain, he said another referendum should be held which gives Britons a choice between staying in the EU or having a Boris Johnson-style hard Brexit.

But presenters Susanna Reid and Piers Morgan quizzed him over why Remain should even be on the ballot two years after the side lost.

Tony Blair (pictured on GMB today) stepped up his campaign for a second Brexit referendum - and said Theresa May's deal should not be an option on another ballot

In a heated exchange with the ex Labour leader, Susanna said: 'Why should Remain even be an option on the second referendum? Why isn't it a choice between May's deal and an alternative Brexit?

'Because the whole Remain camp didn't win that campaign. Why should we re-run that part of the referendum? Why would Brexiteers - people who voted to leave , not feel utterly infuriated that is being re-run?'

Mr Blair hit back, saying: 'I think if you had a referendum and you excluded the possibility of remaining I think your 16-odd million people who voted Remain would feel a great sense of disillusion if they weren't able to make their case again.'

Piers also chimed in asking: 'Isn't that what happens when you lose?'

The ex Labour leader went on: 'When you lose but the other side are as divided as to what form of Brexit is correct or not the only sensible way is to put it back to people and say, you have had your 30 months of experience, do you want to stay?'

He said there his also a 'good chance' Brussels would give the UK more concessions to the UK.A devastated husband has called for his estranged wife to be deported after she allegedly concocted a plan to frame him for domestic violence.

Sydney man Faisal Khan and his wife Asmae met on a Muslim-targeted dating service and had been married for eight months when trouble began brewing in April.

Concerned his Moroccan wife was using him to secure an Australian visa, Faisal turned to a lawyer.

But when Asmae got wind of his plan, Faisal said she feared she could be kicked out of the country and threatened him.

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Sydney man Faisal Khan (left) claims his estranged wife Asmae (right) married him for a visa

'Now see what I do to you,' he claims she said.

Faisal came home to the couple's apartment one night in April and found it completely trashed, he told A Current Affair.

He said his wife was waiting for him in the middle of the devastation.

'You think you are smart about me and you're talking to lawyers,' Faisal claimed she said.

He alleges she then rushed out of the apartment and into a lift.

Hours later, police knocked on Faisal's door, arresting him and charging him with assault.

But a baffled Faisal vehemently denied any wrongdoing, spending more than $20,000 in legal fees and trawling through hundreds of hours of CCTV recordings to get to the bottom of what happened in that elevator.

Eventually, he said he found the piece of footage that could clear his name.

Footage from inside an elevator shows Asmae allegedly punching herself twice in the face

She ran to police with heavy bruising (pictured) and claimed her husband assaulted her

Video from inside the elevator allegedly shows Asmae run inside and wait until the doors close to begin punching herself in the face.

She allegeldy struck herself twice with her left fist, leaving bruises around the eye and cheek.

More footage shows her running from the apartment complex, reportedly to ask police for help.

She has since gone into hiding, according to Faisal, who is demanding she be sent back to Morocco.

'I am the victim now. I got used and abused over and over again emotionally, mentally, financially  you name it. I'm the victim. She did that so now it's her turn to face the consequences,' he said.

Faisal is now trying to pay off his legal debts and has called for his former bride to be deported.A beloved wild wolf known as 'Spitfire' was killed by a trophy hunter when she wandered outside Yellowstone National Park.

The seven-year-old wolf  known as Lamar Canyon Wolf Pack member 926F to scientists  was shot by a hunter in Montana last weekend.

The wolf, also dubbed the Queen of the Lamar Valley by wolf enthusiasts, died the same way her famous mother, the alpha female wolf 832F, did in 2012.

The leader of the Lamar Canyon pack, 832F was better known as 06  a reference to the year she was born  and inspired the book American Wolf: A True Story of Survival and Obsession in the West.

A beloved wild wolf known as 'Spitfire' (above) was killed by a trophy hunter when she wandered outside Yellowstone National Park last weekend

A Facebook page for wolf lovers named for the celebrity wolf, The 06 Legacy, paid tribute to her slain daughter, who was also known as Queen of the Lamar Valley, last week.

Karol Miller, who founded the group, wrote: 'It's so difficult to write this. We are passing along the devastating news that our beloved 926F of the Lamar Canyon Pack was killed in the Montana trophy hunt.

'She was the daughter of our namesake 06 and she was known as the Queen of the Lamar Valley.

'926F showed incredible strength, courage and resilience in everything she did. She had a special bond with her daughter Little T and they stayed together all these years.'

The seven-year-old wolf  known as Lamar Canyon Wolf Pack member 926F to scientists  was shot by a hunter in Montana last weekend

The post added: 'We had so much to celebrate when we saw five strong and healthy pups this fall.

'And now it took just one bullet and 926F is gone. Just like her mother 06 and her uncle 754M before her. With current wolf management practices, the tragedy just doesn't end.'

It added: 'The 06 Legacy is committed to protecting wolves and we are going to fight even harder for 06, 926F, 754M and all the other wolves whose lives are taken for granted and are killed for nothing more than sport.

'We leave you tonight with hearts full of sadness. Rest In Peace our beautiful Queen.'

Spitfire's killing has renewed calls for a hunting-free buffer zone around Yellowstone National park

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks confirmed that Spitfire was killed legally less than five miles from Yellowstone's northeast entrance

Miller added to the New York Times: 'Everybody's mourning, everybody's thinking about what to do to stop this madness.

'These are the descendants of 06, her legacy. People love those wolves.'

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks confirmed to the Times that Spitfire was killed legally less than five miles from Yellowstone's northeast entrance  between Silver Gate and Cooke City.

The state has permitted the hunting of wolves since 2011.

But the killing has renewed calls for a buffer zone around Yellowstone so that wolves that live there cannot be shot if they wander beyond the park's invisible boundary.

The seven-year-old wolf (pictured)  known as Lamar Canyon Wolf Pack member 926F to scientists  was legally shot by a hunter in Montana

A Facebook page named for Spitfire's celebrity mother paid tribute to the slain wolf last week

Montana lawmakers have passed legislation forbidding the creation of a buffer.

However, there is a hunting limit of two wolves in each of the two districts near Yellowstone's northern boundary.

In a blog post, the Wolf Conservation Center noted that wolf hunting licenses cost $19 for residents and $50 for non-residents in Montana.

'Perhaps Montana should take a closer look at the economics of wolf hunting,' the post said.

'Seems that Yellowstone wolves are worth a lot more alive than dead.'

From 1995 to 1997, 41 wild wolves from Canada and northwestern Montana were released into Yellowstone National Park and quickly grew in number.

Around 528 were estimated to be living in the park in 2015.

By December 2016, park officials said at least 108 were in the park.Chocolate lovers across Britain excitedly opened the first door of their advent calendar over the weekend  but the mystery treat left many unhappy.

For this year's Celebrations advent calendar held a Bounty behind the door for December 1  the chocolate that is known for often being eaten last from a tin.

Disappointed people took to Twitter to complain to Mars Incorporated about the choice - with others upset at Snickers and Mars following for the next two days.

Bounty bars are known for often being eaten last from a tin of Celebrations chocolates

Snickers and Mars were the next two chocolates that followed for December 2 and 3 this year

This year's Celebrations advent calendar held a Bounty behind the door for December 1

Nia Wilding from Wales tweeted: 'What kind of monster puts a bounty behind the first door in an advent calendar? Christmas is cancelled.'

Demi Leigh from Sheffield added: 'Thought my Celebrations advent calendar was bad enough yesterday when I got a bounty, but no, today's was a bloody Snickers.'

And Jack Thomson from Kent said: 'Whoever decided to put a Bounty behind the first door of my advent calendar deserves the sack.'

But some bucked the trend to say they were delighted at Bounty being the first chocolate, and others offered their services in eating the unwanted bars.

Bez Newman of Hampshire said: 'Everyone complaining about getting a Bounty behind door number 1 on their advent calendar, well feel free to send them my way!'

And Mark Amies from London gave some perspective, pointing out that 'there are still people alive who can remember when chocolate of any kind was rationed'.

Mars Inc describes Bounty bars as containing Available 'moist, tender coconut' that 'tempts your senses with the taste of paradise'.

And despite its reputation, a study of 2,000 UK adults by Vouchercodes.com in April found it was Britain's third favourite chocolate bar - behind Snickers and Dairy Milk.

Meanwhile, research released today found Britain has a clear generational divide on the Bounty bar - which rises in popularity for every age group.

Leah Dyckes, Celebrations brand director for Mars Wrigley Confectionery UK, said: 'Every year we enjoy seeing the debates rage about the nation's favourite Celebrations.

'But in truth the Celebrations mix is carefully designed so it is perfect for sharing. After all, Christmas is a time to spend time with loved ones.'

The study also showed that in regards to Maltesers Teasers, the generations are united - with the chocolate ranked first place by every age group.Dr Kerryn Phelps and her eldest daughter did not speak for six years following a public falling out - until a simple letter brought them back together.

The relationship between Sydney-based physician, who won the Wentworth by-election in October, and her daughter Jaime Fronzek began to fracture after her mother came out just after her 18th birthday.

Matters were only made worse when Jaime, Dr Phelps's parents, and her ex-husband defended themselves to an Australian magazine following the release of a biography written by Dr Phelps and her wife Jackie Stricker.

Dr Kerryn Phelps and her eldest daughter did not speak for six years following a public falling out - until a simple letter brought them back together (pictured together)

The relationship between Sydney-based physician (pictured with her wife Jackie Stricker), who won the Wentworth by-election in October, and her daughter Jaime Fronzek began to fracture after her mother came out just after her 18th birthday

Matters were only made worse when Jaime, Dr Phelps's parents, and her ex-husband defended themselves to an Australian magazine following the release of a biography written by Dr Phelps and Ms Stricker

At the time, Jamie told the publication that if she could turn back time she would to change a few things.

'...why did they have to do this, write this book about our family and make it public?'

Speaking to Australian Story on Monday, Jamie said at the time she was a 'confused and a painful teenager' and was having a rift with her mother's new partner.

To take time for herself, Jamie moved overseas and didn't contact her mother for six years.

'It was always a source of great distress for me, and Jackie, being Jackie, said, "Right. Enough of this",' Dr Phelps told the program.

In 2003, Jamie said she was stunned to find a letter in her mailbox from Ms Stricker.

'When my mother died in 2003, because family was so important to me, I didn't want that to happen again. I didn't want Jaime to lose her mother, I didn't want Kerryn to lose her daughter,' Ms Stricker told Australian Story.

Speaking to Australian Story on Monday, Jamie (second from left) said at the time she was a 'confused and a painful teenager' and was having a rift with her mother's (second from right) new partner (left)

Jamie received a letter from Ms Stricker (right) explaining how she wanted them all to be a family again

Soon after, Jamie returned to Australia with the hope of mending their relationship.

'I saw Jaime's face at the door and I was just overwhelmed with relief and with, um...emotion. And we talked for hours,' Dr Phelps said.

Ms Stricker claims the distance ended up stregenthening their relationship.

'Within seconds of them seeing each other, they were in each others' arms. Lots of talking. The rift was healed over. And that was many years ago now, and I think the relationship that they have is even stronger because of it,' she told Australian Story.Armed police shot a man during an early morning Flying Squad raid as they swooped on suspected robbers in Wimbledon, south west London, while terrified residents cowered in their homes.

One eye witness said the man, 23, was shot in an exchange of fire with police after a stake-out outside a Sainsbury's Local store at 8.10am.

A builder told the Evening Standard that an armoured cash delivery van pulled up and: 'Within two seconds there was an altercation with two armed robbers.

'One of them ran into a cul-de-sac but when he saw he wasn't going anywhere he shot back at the police and they shot him. It was anything from seven to 11 shots. We hit the deck.'

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Forensics officers are combing the scene in Wimbledon today after armed police shot a man during an early morning raid

The 23-year-old man was shot during a pre-planned operation and officers remained on the scene (pictured) today

A woman who lives on neighbouring Hailes Close said: 'I saw somebody was laying on the floor, there were two police officers standing over him.

'It was really busy, and from where I was I couldn't get a proper look at him, but I remember he was wearing black boots. From the way he was laying there it looked like he was dead.'

A policeman at the scene, who was explaining the shooting to a young girl, told her: 'Somebody was hurt, but it was for the right reasons.'

Another resident said: 'I could hear the bangs, like firecrackers - all going off at once.

'You couldn't even see onto the street, it was just police vans and cars everywhere and a lot of shouting. It's like the wild west here these days.'

Witnesses described seeing a man who was wearing red 'pointing a pistol' before hearing 'a massive bang'.

A helicopter image shows the aftermath of the scene, where armed police shot a man and another was arrested for conspiracy to rob

A cordon is in place outside The Garden Shed pub in Wimbledon, where forensics officers are pictured gathering evidence today

One shocked local resident said she saw a man 'charging past with a gun' and that when police chased after him she decided to stay inside.

She said: 'I heard a massive bang, then people were saying he was shot and taken to hospital.'

Another witness, who did not want to be named, told GetWestLondon that they heard a loud 'bang' at around 8.10am and saw a man, who they 'weren't sure was undercover police or not' wearing red and running with a 'pistol.'

They added that almost immediately after two undercover cars 'put on their sirens and pulled a U turn back up Haydons Road.'

Police and forensics teams are today investigating at the scene of a shooting in Wimbledon, south-west London

A witness said shots were fired after a stake-out outside the Sainsbury's Local store on Haydons Road (pictured)

He claimed all the people involved in the apparent chase then went up North Road.

The local resident added that he later saw one of the 'undercover officers' who was 'holding the large gun' coming back down the road to 'collect his police cap that he was not wearing.'

A woman who works inside the cordon on Haydons Road said she heard gunshots outside just after getting to work.

She said: 'We were told to stay inside at about 8.15 this morning.

'A lot of police turned up, there were vans everywhere and a lot of unmarked cars, with sirens blaring outside.

'I believe somebody was shot, it was a very distinctive sound - and then a team of armed police came running by the window.'

Haydons Road (pictured) has been closed after the incident that happened at around 8.10am

Aerial images show the scene today which has been cordoned off. Members of the Met's anti-robbery Flying Squad and firearms officers were involved in the raid

The concerned mother of a young girl who reportedly witnessed the incident said her daughter heard three gun shots.

The man, 23, was shot in Lacock Close, Wimbledon, and a second man has been arrested for conspiracy to rob.

The operation was being conducted by officers from the Met's anti-robbery Flying Squad and they were assisted by firearms colleagues.

The man was taken to a London hospital and his condition is not life threatening. He has also been arrested for conspiracy to rob.

Police also said that a suspected stolen car has been recovered at the scene.

One resident told the local news website: 'Most of the action appeared to be down Lacock Close. Lots of undercover police cars and lots of police with guns around.

'Someone was put into an ambulance with a large bandage wrapped around their arm. Heard police radioing for ambulance, saying that someone had been shot.'

A number of roads in the area, including Haydons Road, have been closed and a forensic scene is in place.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct has launched an independent investigation and the Met's Directorate of Professional Standards have also been informed.

Several police cars are at the scene in Wimbledon (pictured) and a witness said they heard a bang at 8.10am before seeing a man running with a 'pistol'

Map shows Lacock Close and the Sainsbury's Local on Haydon Road in Wimbledon, south west London, where the drama unfolded

The Flying Squad's main focus is robbery, and it is known for staging dramatic takedowns of armed robbers as they try to flee the scene of a crime.

The Metropolitan Police would not comment on reports that Monday's shooting took place after a police raid on a house.

It is rare for armed police to actually fire their guns during operations.

In the year to March 2018, there were 12 incidents in which police firearms were discharged out of 18,746 police firearms operations.Advertisement

Fascinating colourised images have emerged revealing the brutal conditions faced by sailors who protected the Second World War Arctic Convoys.

Black and white images have been transformed to show the harsh life on ships heading to and from freezing ports in the Soviet Union - an operation Winston Churchill described as 'the worst journey in the world'.

Many show servicemen shovelling snow and chipping away at the ice that would regularly coat weapons and decks. One image shows Hellcats preparing for take off from the snow-covered runway of an aircraft carrier.

The pictures resemble scenes depicted in the 1950s Nicholas Monsarrat novel, The Cruel Sea, where Royal Navy sailors fight for survival on escort ship, the HMS Compass Rose, in the Atlantic. It was later made into a film starring Jack Hawkins.

Frozen hell: Thousands of sailors risked their lives in Arctic convoys to transport vital supplies to Russia during the Second World War. Sailors are pictured above clearing ice and snow from the deck of H.M.S. Vansittart while on escort duty in the Arctic in February 1943

Hellcats warm up and prepare for launch on the snow-covered deck of HMS Emperor during abysmal weather conditions. The ship was deployed in March 1944 along with sister carriers HMS Searcher, Pursuer and Fencer to defend convoys

All hands on deck: Hardened British sailors would often scrape away snow and ice with their bare hands. Crew are pictured on board the cruiser HMS Sheffield in December 1941 at a Russian base ahead of deployment. The vessel hit a mine off Iceland on March 3, 1942, but rejoined the Arctic Convoy effort after repairs were completed

Deep freeze: Black and white images have been transformed to shed new light on the Arctic convoys. One expertly colourised photo shows how ice and snow would quickly build up on ship exteriors with crews regularly having to clear it away in sub-zero conditions

A total of 78 convoys delivered four million tons of vital cargo and munitions to the Soviet Union  allowing the Red Army to repel the Nazi invasion. A colourised image shows some of the many ships that made their way to and from freezing northern ports

The Arctic convoys inspired other books also, including Alistair Maclean's HMS Ulysses which tells the story of a Royal Navy cruiser leading a convoy to Murmansk with vital supplies for the Russian Army.

The novel echoes real life events in which British HMS Glowworm and HMS Jervis Bay sacrificed themselves by engaging larger German opponents.

Crew members wearing heavy winter coats would regularly remove ice during bitter sub-zero conditions to stop their top-heavy ships capsizing.

One photo, colourised by Welsh electrician Royston Leonard, shows officers posing on HMS Belfast which protected the convoys for a punishing 18 months.

Ships sailed through the darkness, fog and appalling cold of the Arctic winter as they were battered by huge waves.

But the weather was as nothing compared with the fear of being attacked by German warplanes, battleships and U-boats.

A total of 78 convoys delivered four million tons of vital cargo and munitions to the Soviet Union  allowing the Red Army to repel the Nazi invasion.

The cost in lives was horrific with more than 3,000 UK seamen killed in the icy waters of the Arctic Ocean. Their sacrifice on those terrifying trips kept Russia supplied and fighting on the Eastern Front.

High seas: The colourised images show how crews had to battle through winter storms as they protected supply ships delivering essentials to the Soviet Union. In this photo, a merchant ship sails through massive waves during convoy RA 64, in 1945. The convoy left Clyde in the middle of winter on February 3 and delivered goods to Murmansk, Russia, before returning to Loch Ewe on February 28

Grin and bear it: Despite the heavy ice and snow around the superstructure of HMS Belfast in November 1943 during the Arctic Convoys, crew members were still able to manage a smile for this photo. The ship had an advanced radar system, making it ideal for work protecting supply vessels from Nazi attacks

Chipping away: As well as facing the constant threat of attack from German U-boats, the men who sailed on these ships faced some of the toughest weather conditions of the war. Ice was a significant problem and had to be removed to prevent ships from capsizing

Support: Over four years, the convoys delivered 7,000 warplanes, 5,000 tanks and other battlefield vehicles, ammunition, fuel, food, medicine and further emergency supplies. This image of a fleet of convoy ships from a Royal Air Force Short Sunderland flying boat in 1943

Over four years, convoys delivered thousands of warplanes and tanks as well as ammunition, fuel, food, medicine and further emergency supplies to the Soviet Union

In total, 85 merchant and 16 Royal Navy vessels perished between 1941 and 1945. But it is likely Nazi Germany would have won the Second World War had the convoys not eventually succeeded.

Churchill proposed the convoys following Operation Barbarossa, Germany's invasion of Russia. Cabinet documents reveal he promised to supply Stalin 'at all costs'.

He knew that if Russia fell, the full weight of the Nazi military machine would be targeted at the West.

Over four years, the convoys delivered 7,000 warplanes, 5,000 tanks and other battlefield vehicles, ammunition, fuel, food, medicine and further emergency supplies.

The cost in lives was horrific with more than 3,000 UK seamen killed in the treacherous waters of the Arctic Ocean as they undertook the terrifying trips to keep Russia supplied and fighting on the Eastern Front. In total, 85 merchant and 16 Royal Navy vessels perished between 1941 and 1945

Cold war: A Royal Navy gunner in a heavy winter coat stands in the snow and ice coating a Royal Navy destroyer in another of Royston Leonard's expertly colourised convoy images

Norway and the Baltic states had been captured by Germany so the only way to get the goods to Russia was through the northern ports of Murmansk and Archangel, both inside the Arctic Circle. The first convoys set off from Iceland and Loch Ewe in the Scottish Highlands. Two or three reached their destination unscathed

Weapons were regularly coated with thick layers of ice amid bitter weather on the convoys. Despite the brutal conditions, a crew member is pictured smiling in this colourised image taken during the convoys

Norway and the Baltic states had been captured by Germany so the only way to get the goods to Russia was through the northern ports of Murmansk and Archangel, both inside the Arctic Circle.

The first convoys set off from Iceland and Loch Ewe in the Scottish Highlands. Two or three reached their destination unscathed.

The final convoy departed from the Clyde on May 12, 1945, and arrived at Kola Inlet, near Murmansk, on May 20. It sailed back into Glasgow ten days later.

Victory in Europe had been declared on May 8  not least thanks to the sacrifice of the heroes of the Arctic convoys.

Clear the decks: Sailors used shovels, brushes and pix axes as they fought an on-going battle to remove snow and ice during the convoy trips. But worse still was the constant threat of being attacked by a German U-boat

More than 3,000 sailors and merchant seamen died from the bitter cold and enemy attacks on the dangerous missions to transport vital supplies from Scotland to Soviet ports in the Arctic Circle. A total of 78 convoys delivered more than four million tonnes of supplies, including 7,000 plans and 5,000 tanks, between 1941 and 1945

A sailor stands on the ice-coated deck of a ship during the convoys. The images were painstakingly transformed from black and white by Welsh electrician Royston Leonard

Striking images like these are featured in British author Michael D. Carrolls new book, Retrographic on the colourisation of historical images.A 33-year-old man has been charged with assault after allegedly dropping a teenager into a cauldron of boiling water during a 'witch carnival' in southwest Germany.

Reinhold K. had dressed up as a witch for the annual 'Witchcraft Eppingen' festival in Baden Wurttemberg in February, where he is then alleged to have taken part in a prank gone wrong.

The victim, 18-year-old Janine, suffered serious burns on her legs and has been left with life-long scars after spending two months in hospital.

Reinhold K., aged 33, is accused of dropping an 18-year-old woman into a cauldron of boiling water during a carnival in Eppingen, southwest Germany while wearing one of the witch masks seen in front of him in court

Reinhold K. has been charged with 'negligent assault', but claims he was not the masked person involved and that he has been made a scapegoat, Bild reports.

The cauldron had been placed on a carnival cart which was being pulled along by a group of some 19 people dressed up in witch costumes, Reinhold K. among them.

Local media reports that the Janine's friends had 'handed her over' to two of them as a joke.

One of the 'witches' held her over the cauldron while another lifted the lid, after which she ended up in the water feet first.

Shocking: The 18-year-old was dropped into this cauldron as it was filled with boiling hot water during the 'witchcraft' carnival in Eppingen, southwest Germany, in February

This was reportedly done to mimic he scene told in fairy-tales and legends where witches would boil their victims alive.

Prosecutor Patricia Munch claims Reinhold K was the masked person holding the Janine over the cauldron, and that he lost his grip and her legs fell into the boiling water.

She also claims that Reinhold K. and the other 'witches' simply left the victim behind and carried on with the procession despite her screaming in pain.

The teenager required eight weeks of hospital care and will 'will suffer the consequences for a lifetime,' according to doctors.Schools in Anchorage, Alaskas largest school district, will remain closed this week as administrators assess the damage to the systems 92 schools and buildings in the wake of last Fridays 7.0 magnitude earthquake.

School officials started examining the earthquakes impact over the weekend, and discovered collapsed ceilings, dangling vents, and water damage in some schools, the Anchorage Daily News reported.

Every school was affected in some way, with some schools sustaining major damage, the paper said.

The districts custodial and maintenance workers accessed 48 of the systems schools on Saturday to begin evaluations and repairs, and had begun the monumental task of clearing away debris, vacuuming water pools, re-assembling classrooms and other tasks to get schools ready for the resumption of class, Tom Roth, the districts chief operating officer, said in a note posted on the districts website on Saturday.

Deena Bishop, the district superintendent, said officials will also set up a process to allow students who fled without their medications and other essential items during Fridays earthquake to retrieve their belongings.

Classes in the district of about 48,000 are expected to resume Dec. 10, and students may return to their regular buildings or alternate sites, the Anchorage Daily News reported.

In a Dec. 1 message, the districts school board praised the staff for the tremendous job taking care of every student during the earthquake and the resulting damage. In some cases, staff members drove students home, according to the school board.

It is clear that the emergency training conducted frequently throughout the district is effective, the school board wrote. Our staff and students followed protocol and direction extremely well, and we are proud of them.

Students in Wildfire-Stricken Region Return to Class

Meanwhile in Paradise, Calif., students are expected to start classes today, nearly three weeks after the devastating Camp Fire ravaged the town, damaged or destroyed eight of its nine schools, and displaced about 5,000 students across Butte County, including in Paradise . Eighty-eight people have been confirmed dead.

Students in the hardest-hit townsParadise, Magalia, and Concowwill attend schools in neighboring districts. Some will take classes online and through independent study, at churches, and even at a local mall, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Students from Paradise High school and middle schools will take classes at the Chico Mall, with staggered starting times, according to the LA Times.

Photo caption: Allison Susel, the acting principal at Chugiak High School in Chugiak, Alaska, surveys damage following the magnitude 7.0 earthquake on Nov. 30, 2018. Susel said ceiling tiles came down, books and other items were thrown off shelves in the library and there was water damage, but there were no injuries to students or staff at the suburban Anchorage school.--Mark Thiessen/APA young university student has become the 50th Queenslander this year to be struck down with meningococcal disease.

Phoebe O'Connell, 18, is fighting for life in Brisbane's Mater Private Hospital after she was diagnosed with meningococcal Y.

The University of Queensland student presented to the hospital last week after bouts of vomiting, diarrhoea and a severe headache, The Courier Mail reported.

University student Phoebe O'Connell (pictured) is the 50th Queenslander this year to be struck down with meningococcal disease

The former All Hallows' School student's illness comes just one month after Brisbane interior stylist Dianne Leybourne, 53 was struck down with the B strain.

She spent a week in hospital.

'They'd never seen anyone my age with meningococcal; from the nurses to the pathologists, there was not one person who didn't think I was an oddity; everyone was amazed,' Ms Leybourne told the Courier Mail this week.

The disease has been on the rise in Queensland in the last three years. In 2015, 28 people were diagnosed.

Another young Queenslander Zoe McGinty died of the W strain last year, just hours after falling ill.

Ms O'Connell is now fighting for life in Brsbane's Mater Private Hospital (pictured)

Phoebe O'Connell (pictured) was diagnosed with the meningococcal Y strain

Her mother Kirsten McGinty has since advocated for free vaccines to be accessible to all Australians, with the support of her late daughter's boyfriend Simon Taylor.

'I have remained in constant contact with Zoe's family, and I 100 per cent believe in what Kirsten is trying to do,' Mr Taylor told Daily Mail Australia earlier this year.

'Vaccines should be free for all strains and all ages so no one else has to go through the grief we have all been through. Not only has this disease taken Zoe away from me, it has also robbed Zoe of everything she wanted to accomplish in her life.'

Meningococcal disease is an acute bacterial infection often transmitted from the throat or nose that infects the rest of the body.

There are five main strains of the disease, with B and W the most prevalent.

Symptoms include fever, nausea or vomiting, lack of energy, tiredness or drowsiness, confusion or disorientation, dizziness and a sore throat.

Although most make a full recovery, 10 per cent die from the disease, while another 20 per cent are left permanent disabilities, according to Meningococcal Australia.

Queensland media student Zoe McGinty (pictured) died of the W strain last year, just hours after falling ill

Other long term health complications include limb deformity, skin scarring, deafness and possible loss of brain function.

The vaccine against A, C, W, Y costs $100 while the two-jab B procedure is upwards of $250.

Queensland's free ACWY vaccine for teens aged 15-19 is due to end this month while the school-based Year 10 program ends in 2021.

The free vaccine program for to all year 10 students in Victoria will end later this month.

The NSW Meningococcal W Response Program offers a single dose of the ACWY vaccine to students in Years 10 and 11.

South Australia offers free B jabs for under-4s, which will be extended to Year 10 and 11 students next year, along with a catch-up program for aged 17-21.

ACT Health implemented its ACWY vaccination program for Year 10 students earlier this year, which since been extended to years 11-12.

In Tasmania, anyone born after 1 August 1 1997 can get the free ACWY vaccine from six-weeks-old.

The ACWY vaccine program has been expanded to everyone aged 1-19 in the Northern Territory while in Western Australia, free vaccination programs currently available for ages 1-5 and 15 to 19.A 67-year-old woman who has Parkinson's and diabetes was left alone in her wheelchair overnight after the airport porter assigned to her finished his shift and went home.

Olimpia Warsaw was in Illinois for her ex-husband's funeral and was due to fly from Chicago O'Hare International Airport to Detroit, Michigan on Friday - but the flight was cancelled amid blizzard warnings in the Midwest.

Her son Claude Coltea told CBS Chicago that he had taken his mother to the gate where the American Airlines agent assured him the flight was on time and said: 'All's fine. We'll take good care of your mom.'

Olimpia Warsaw, 67, was left overnight at Chicago O'Hare airport after her flight was cancelled. She has trouble communicating due to Parkinson's and diabetes and uses a wheelchair

After the airline announced the flight was cancelled, Coltea said a porter offered his mother a hotel voucher, but would not take her to the hotel.

Warsaw has trouble communicating due to Parkinson's and diabetes and was unable to find alternative transportation herself.

According to CBS, the porter then went home after clocking off from his shift, leaving Warsaw stuck at the airport.

The family began to panic when Warsaw did not arrive in Detroit, and contacted American Airlines looking for answers.

Terminal 5 at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, Illinois on November 30, 2018. A passenger with Parkinson's and diabetes who uses a wheelchair was left overnight by a porter after he flight was cancelled

Crews de-ice an American Airlines plane at O'Hare International Airport on Monday, November 26, 2018, in Chicago. A wintry storm brought blizzard-like conditions to parts of the Midwest last week grounding hundreds of flights

American Airlines have launched an investigation and refunded the 67-year-old female passenger who reportedly left in a wheelchair overnight after the porter assigned to her went home after his shift ended

Hours later, Warsaw was found in her wheelchair and wearing the same clothes she wore to the funeral the previous day.

Her son Julian said during her ordeal Warsaw was even forced to approach a random stranger to help her go to the bathroom.

According to the family, not only did American Airlines leave her alone overnight, but they reportedly lost her luggage on the flight into Chicago.

Warsaw had reportedly missed part of the funeral because she had to go out to find some suitable clothes.

Claude said his mother was badly let down by the airline and the porter.

'All we wanted was someone to pause and say "you know what, can we just make sure this human being is safe and then we can all go home". Not one person did that,' he told CBS.

His brother Julian agreed, adding: 'I really think they need to revisit their policies for dealing with the elderly, for dealing with the disabled.'

Passengers sit as they wait for their flight at O'Hare airport in Chicago, Sunday, November 25, 2018. More than 700 flights canceled as blizzard warning takes effect in Chicago

American Airlines said in a statement to Fox News: 'We are very concerned about this, and have launched an investigation with our Chicago team and the vendor we utilize that provides wheelchair services at Chicago O'Hare.

'We have spoken with the family multiple times, and met with them both in Chicago and Detroit yesterday. Our team has already refunded back the fare for this trip,' the statement read.

The airline told Fox that Warsaw was offered a hotel room, but are trying to determine why no transportation was arranged.A military court in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip on Monday sentenced six people, including a woman, to death by hanging for 'collaborating' with Israel, authorities said.

In total 14 people were sentenced for 'collaborating with the occupation,' with six sentenced to be hanged and the rest sentenced to hard labour, the interior ministry in Gaza said.

The rulings came three weeks after eight people were killed when an alleged Israeli army cell in Gaza was uncovered on November 11, leading to a vicious fire fight.

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Palestinian members of Hamas security forces stand at a security checkpoint in Gaza City on April 5, 2017

Hamas fired hundreds of rockets at Israel in response, with the Jewish state striking dozens of targets in Gaza before a November 13 ceasefire agreement.

The six sentenced to death Monday were not directly related to the flareup, officials said.

Iyad al-Bozum, the spokesman of the interior ministry in Gaza, told AFP they were linked 'to a communications and eavesdropping device planted by the (Israeli) occupation'.

Six Hamas members were killed when the device apparently exploded after detection near Deir al-Balah in central Gaza in May.

Among those sentenced was a woman living inside Israel, named only as Amal, who was sentenced in absentia and is alleged to have encouraged her nephew in Gaza to collaborate with Israeli intelligence, according to the interior ministry.

A gallows is prepared for an execution in Gaza, 2013. Around 28 executions have been carried out in Gaza since Hamas seized control of the coastal enclave in 2007

Bozum hailed the rulings as a 'clear message' to those who would cooperate with Israel.

'Collaborators must realise the (Israeli) occupation will not be able to protect them,' he told a news conference.

The verdicts drew condemnation from Human Rights Watch.

'Rushing to sentence people to death smacks of militia rule, not the rule of law,' said Omar Shakir, the watchdog's director for Israel and the Palestinian territories.

'The death penalty is a barbaric practice and always wrong, no matter the circumstance,' he told AFP.

It was not clear when the executions of those in custody would take place.

Palestinians inspect a crater caused by an Israeli airstrike last month in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip

According to the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights, 28 executions have been carried out in Gaza since Hamas seized control of the coastal enclave in 2007 from rival faction Fatah.

In May 2017, Hamas security forces invited journalists to attend the hanging in Gaza City of three men convicted over the assassination of a senior military commander of the Islamist movement.

During the 2014 war with Israel, a firing squad from Hamas's armed wing killed six men accused of collaborating with the Jewish state.

Hamas and its allies have fought three wars with Israel since 2008 and the Gaza Strip has been under an Israeli blockade for a decade.

Israel says the measure is necessary to isolate Hamas, though critics say they amount to collective punishment of the territory's two million residents.This is the amusing moment an adorable lion cub refuses to keep still for the camera during a photoshoot with a famous TV presenter before playfully biting her rear.

Russian star Anfisa Chekhova, 40, was bitten on the bottom by the playful cub named Jack while posing with him in the Russian capital Moscow and she later shared the footage with her 1.5 million Instagram followers.

The comical clip shows a sultry Chekhova lying on her side in a black dress while the restless two-month-old lion cub climbs on top of her.

A cute lion was filmed refusing to stay put during a photoshoot with a famous TV presenter before biting her rear in the Russian capital of Moscow

Russian presenter Anfisa Chekhova, 40, was bitten on the bottom by cub named Jack as she posed during a photoshoot

When the lion slides off from the star's body, an animal handler rushes to place the mischievous big cat on top of her body again.

As the photographer moves away, the lion nibbles the Russian presenter's backside and at one point even sinks its fangs into her buttock leaving her to shriek in pain.

Ms Chekhova accompanied her video post with the message: 'The lion cub's name is Jack. He is two months old.

After struggling to keep still a member of staff is spotted trying to place the cub back on the presenter. Ms Chekhova later shared the footage with her 1.5 million Instagram followers

She wrote: 'I was bitten and licked but the main thing is that I got a lot of positive emotions'

'During the photo shoot, I was bitten and licked but the main thing is that I got a lot of positive emotions.'

According to reports, Jack was brought from a Moscow zoo to participate in the photo shoot.

The 40-year-old television presenter gained fame as the presenter of the erotic TV talk show 'Sex With Anfisa Chekhova' that ran on Russian TV from 2005 to 2009.

She divorced from husband Guram Bablishvili in August 2017, and they have a three-year-old son named Solomon.A couple living in a rural Bavarian village have sued a local farmer over the noise from her herd's cowbells, which they say 'caused them depression' by keeping them awake.

The married couple who moved to Holzkirchen, south of Munich, Germany, complained to Regina Killer in 2014 over the noise from her herd which graze in the meadow next to their house.

The unnamed couple also complained about the smell of manure and the number of insects caused by the cows.

The case has drawn national and international interest as Ms Killer claims the dairy cows are part of both Bavarian tradition and her livelihood.

Regina Killer (pictured) moved into her farm in 2014 but soon found herself in trouble with the neighbours over the noise from her cows

Ms Killer was sued by the husband last year and won her case but it is currently being appealed and the man's wife has filed a new suit

Last year Ms Killer won her legal case against the husband, but he is currently appealing the decision to a court in Munich.

And his wife has now launched a second lawsuit against the farmer.

They have also sued the town's council for leasing Ms killer the farm in the first place.

A Bavarian court heard the couple claim the bells clang day and night, causing them to suffer depression.

They say the practice of making cows wear bells amounts to animal cruelty and is unnecessary as the countryside is flat and open.

'Have you ever seen a cowbell in Holland?' the court was asked.

The couple claimed the noise from Ms Killer's farm caused them sleepless nights and led to 'depression'

Regina Killer sits in the District Court Munich II last month amid a lengthy legal battle over her cows

The cows should be given GPS trackers instead of bells, they argued.

Mrs Killer and her legal team maintain that cowbells are there in case the animals escape - they allow the farmer to hear where they are, even at night.

GPS trackers, meanwhile, are expensive and still in an experimental phase, they argued.

The mayor of Holzkirchen, Olaf von Lowis, said: 'What is at stake is whether cowbells can be considered an appropriate part of agriculture in our region.'

'The other question in this context is how far should the keeping of animals be seen as an objective disturbance,' he added.

But 'grazing is a common practice in our area and is an important pillar of agriculture', he said.Lihui Liu (pictured) has been charged with capital murder in the death of her five-year-old son

A Texas woman has been accused of drowning and decapitating her five-year-old son before dumping his body in a trash can.

Lihui Liu, 43, was arrested on Friday after police responded to a report of a stabbing at the family's home in the 13000 block of Holly Lynn in Houston at around 7pm.

Police found the boy's decapitated body on the garage floor, partially covered by a plastic bag, the Houston Chronicle reports.

Authorities say the boy's father returned from work and found the child's body wrapped in a plastic bag and inside a trash can in the family's garage.

The father told police he had left his wife at home with their son and 13-year-old daughter.

When he returned, he said he found his wife in the garage and she told him she had sent the boy away.

The father said he started looking for his son and his wife then admitted the child was in the trash can.

He found his son's body in a black plastic bag and the severed head in the can.

Officers later found a bloody knife in the bathroom and a blood-splattered bathtub, the Chronicle reports.

Liu allegedly admitted she had drowned her son, but refused to speak about the decapitation.

She has been charged with capital murder.

Authorities haven't released a possible motive in the killing of the boy. His name wasn't immediately released.

Child Protective Services confirmed to the Chronicle that they had interacted with the family in 2015 but the details of their involvement is not clear.

The children were never in state custody.

Harris County court records show Liu was being held without bond Sunday after a court appearance on Saturday.

Liu faces another court appearance on Monday.Two bodies found on a shoreline are the bodies of a missing couple whose car was found washed up on a beach, police confirmed today.

A major search was launched by police when Susan and James Kenneavy's Ford Kuga was founf at Drummore, near Stranraer on Thursday after Storm Diana battered the UK.

Heavy rain had led to flooding on the Drummore coastal road the previous day.

Police Scotland said the body of a woman was found at the edge of the water in Port William, Newton Stewart, at around 8.15am on Saturday.

James and Susan Kenneavy, whose Ford Kuga was found empty on Drummore beach near Stranraer in the south of Scotland

Police searching for the couple as Storm Diana battered the coast, causing heavy rain and 80mph gales

The body of a man was found nearby around half an hour later.

Formal identification has now taken place.

A force spokesman said: 'Police Scotland is now able to confirm that the two bodies found on the shoreline near to Port William, Newton Stewart on Saturday 1 December 2018, are that of the missing couple, James and Susan Kenneavy from Drummore.

'A report has been sent to the Procurator Fiscal.'

The beach where the couple's car was found washed up in southern Scotland is pictured

Heavy rain had led to flooding on Drummore coastal road on Wednesday and the coastguard were drafted in to help with police searches

Following the discovery of the vehicle, search teams worked into the night on Thursday looking for the couple - and air, sea and land searches took place on Friday.

The efforts had involved local lifeboats, Galloway Mountain Rescue Team and the Coastguard and Rescue 936 search helicopter.Laura Ashley has gone into administration for a second time after it was saved from going out of business only two years ago.

The clothing and home furnishing group, operated under licence from the original Laura Ashley company in the UK, has 18 stores and 100 employees in Australia.

But two years since it was slimmed down and sold to a private buyer, the brand has been forced into administration again, falling victim to the same forces that have claimed a raft of Australian retailers recently.

Laura Ashley has gone into administration for a second time after it was saved from going out of business only two years ago

The clothing and home furnishing group, operated under licence from the original Laura Ashley company in the UK, has 18 stores and 100 employees in Australia

Famed for its feminine pastels and prints, Laura Ashley follows retailers including Roger David, Marcs, Pumpkin Patch, Payless Shoes and Rhodes & Beckett in entering administration, although some brands have survived under new owners.

KordaMentha Restructuring staffers Craig Shepard and Leanne Chesser had been appointed voluntary administrators for the floundering retailer.

'The business has been hurt by the same factors affecting many other fashion retailers: a becalmed retail environment, rising fixed costs and fierce competition from online retailers,' Mr Shepard said.

Laura Ashley entered Australia in 1971 and, at its peak, had more than 45 stores

'The capital requirements to revive and grow the business became too burdensome as retail conditions became tougher.'

Laura Ashley entered Australia in 1971 and, at its peak, had more than 45 stores.

The brand still had 38 stores in 2016.

KordaMentha said administrators' priorities were to review the business, look for buyers for both merchandise and brand licence, and to clear as much stock in the lead up to Christmas.

The first administrators' meeting is in Melbourne on December 13.Advertisement

Chilling images of the wrecked plane which blew apart over Lockerbie 30 years ago have emerged as the mangled metal still lays in a Lincolnshire scrapyard.

When a terrorist's explosive went off on December 21, 1988, 259 passengers and crew were killed as they flew in the Boeing 747 which was travelling from Frankfurt to Detroit, via New York and London.

Eleven residents of the small town were also killed by falling debris in the tragedy - which was caused by a bomb smuggled on board the plane in a suitcase and remains Britain's worst ever terror attack.

Many of the victims were American college students flying home for Christmas, including 35 Syracuse University students participating in a study abroad program.

New images have shown much of the plane, its distinctive blue and white Pan Am livery still clearly visible, remains stored behind a high fence at Windleys Salvage in Tattershall.

The splintered parts of the aircraft were transferred there in eight lorry loads from an Army base at Longtown near Carlisle after being painstakingly sorted through.

The firm specialises in salvaging air crashes and was hired by insurance giant Lloyds to retrieve and store the wreckage, which was scattered for miles around the Scottish town.

The forgotten remains of Pam Am flight 103, 30 years after the Lockerbie disaster lay in a scrap yard in Tattershall, Lincolnshire. From new aerial footage mangled metal parts of the plane can be seen. The mid section remains at the HQ of the Air Accidents Investigation Branch in Farnborough

Eight lorries were used to transport the parts of the plane from a base near Carlisle to the scrapyard near Lincoln. Windley and his team took the 375 tons of wreckage to storage at the scrapyard

The owners of the yard won the contract to retrieve and store the parts of the plane which were scattered across Lockerbie. It remains out of sight from the road in a wooded area (right)

The surviving pieces of the Boeing 747 craft, which were reassembled in a warehouse show the what the Pan Am plane looked like before it was blown apart in the air

The mid-section containing the cargo hold where the bomb exploded remains at the HQ of the Air Accidents Investigation Branch in Farnborough.

Libyan intelligence officer Abdelbaset al-Megrahi was convicted in 2001 of the atrocity and Tripoli admitted blame.

He was jailed for 27 years but died of prostate cancer aged 60 in 2012 after being released on compassionate grounds in 2009.

Many still believe he was scapegoated for the attack, and there are still many unanswered questions as to exactly who was behind the blast.

In August 2017, the family of Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset al-Megrahi lodged a new bid to appeal against his conviction.

The remains of the plane must be stored until all investigations and appeals into the atrocity are completed. It is currently believed the scrapyard owners are paid 800 per month by the Government for the storage of the plane - although they are not allowed to confirm its presence - nor explain why it is still there.

As the 30th anniversary of the terror attack approaches, those who were there at the time have described the scene in harrowing detail.

Retired former Policeman PC Ian Rae has described how he bonded with the victims' families.

The 58-year-old said the hairs on the back of his neck still stand up when he thinks about some of the things he found when going through the wreckage  including a tape player with this voice of an American victim.

'You worked for half an hour, went out for a quick break, had a cry to yourself and then went back in and got on with it,' Mr Rae, told The Mirror.

As part of his role in the aftermath Ian delivered belongings back to families.

In doing so  he struck up a friendship with some of them.

Ian spent Christmas Day after the first anniversary with Betty Thomas, mother of victim Yvonne Owen, 29, and grandmother to Bryony, aged 20 months.

Yvonne's boyfriend Seth  who she was visiting in Boston when the plane blew up  had come to stay and Ian offered them a meal.

Another officer, Colin Dorrance only found out this year the identity of Bryony Owen, Betty's granddaughter.

She had fallen from the sky outside the town and a farmer drove her body down to a makeshift mortuary on the front seat of his tractor. Mr Dorrance said it looked as if she was just sleeping.

A day after the bomb went off, in December 1988, the scene of devastation caused by the explosion was pictured

Homes in Lockerbie were completely destroyed by the explosion while eleven people died in their houses on December 21

Homes in Sherwood Crescent were wiped out by the plane as it broke up in the air and pieces came hurtling down on homes

A giant crater was left in the road at number 13 Sherwood Crescent. The wing section of the airliner, and its load of 30,000 gallons of fuel, hit the house, killing 11 residents of the town

There is now a memorial area where number 13 used to stand at the bottom of the crescent while some of the rest of the street has been rebuilt

Search parties roamed the nearby fields in search of anyone who may have survived the attack. One man has described how they mainly found body parts

Remains of the aircraft came tumbling down onto Lockerbie when the bomb went off mid-air as the flight began the London leg

Prince Charles views the devastation at Lockerbie in 1988 after 270 people were killed in the terror attack

The wreckage of the PanAm airliner that exploded and crashed over Lockerbie in Scotland in 1988

The Lockerbie bombing timeline: December 21, 1988 Pan Am Flight 103 from Frankfurt to Detroit, via London and New York, blows up over Lockerbie in Scotland. A total of 270 people died November 1991 Britain and the US accuse Libyans Abdelbaset Al-Megrahi and Al Amin Khailifa Fhimah of the bombing. However, Libyan authorities deny involvement January 1995 MPs demand an inquiry after US intelligence suggests Iran was behind the bombing, instead of Libya January 2001 Megrahi was convicted of mass murder while Fhimah is found not guilty August 2003 The UN lifts sanctions on Libya. Blame was accepted in Tripoli and the government compensates families of the victims August 2009 Megrahi is freed after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. He did not die until 2012 May 2018 A review of Abdelbaset al-Megrahi's conviction for the bombing is to be carried out by the Scottish Criminal Cases Commission November 2018 The Scottish Criminal Cases Review Commission says there was no criminality in the Megrahi case Advertisement

He did not find out the identity of the youngster as the full scale of the tragedy unfolded that night and felt that prying into the details later in his career would be unprofessional.

But Mr Dorrance, now 48 and retired from the police, discovered last week that the baby was actually Bryony Owen, a little girl who was on board Pan Am flight 103 with her mother Yvonne. The pair were buried together.

Lorry driver Mark Herridge recalled how the search parties rushed to the scene to try and fund survivors  including himself and his brother-in-law Brian Mawson, just 21 and 20 at the time.

The men from Brydekirk hitched a lift to Lockerbie nine miles away to help look around Tundergarth.

'There was an eerie silence as we walked,' said Mark.

'We formed a line across the field. We were hoping against hope to find someone alive, but within a mile of walking we knew there were none. By then we were no longer finding whole people.'

Mr Herridge's search party found the body of three-year-old Sur-uchi Rattan who died along with mother Garima Rattan, and brother Anmol, two.

She was found on a hedge about eight miles from the cockpit of the 747.

He said: 'I could see it was a child straight away, a little girl in a red outfit and I had to look away. I had a 10-month-old son at home.

'She was just lying in a hedge, face up, barely a scratch on her.

'The hedge was near an old farm building where another passenger had fallen in to the barn roof, still sitting in their passenger seat.

'I'd never seen a dead body before and after what I witnessed that night, I never want to see one again.

'As soon as we got close the cockpit you could tell it was a jumbo jet. Even although it had smashed down on its side it was huge.

'There were seven or eight bodies lying around outside. They just looked like shop dummies. They didn't have a mark on them. It seemed surreal. I later read that the pilot and engineer were still strapped in their seats.'

Along with the bodies which littered the ground were still wrapped Christmas presents.

He added: 'It was very soft peat and you could see the impact marks where people had landed. One man was sitting upright in the field. I couldn't bring myself to look at his face. I couldn't look at any of their faces.

'There was a lady lying near a baby who looked just like a doll.

'We were all willing for someone to be found alive. The further we got from the cockpit the worse it got. Clothes had been ripped from bodies and people lay naked in fields. After a while it was clear we wouldn't find anyone alive.'

Policemen and firemen look at the scene of devastation in Lockerbie on December 22 - hours after the incident in 1988

The Lockerbie disaster where a giant crater was blown in the ground after the bomb went off in the air

Homes were destroyed after the plane was attacked and debris came hurtling down to the ground in Britain's worst terror attack in 1988

Mourners attend a service commemorating the Lockerbie bombing, in Drysdale Cemetary near the town of Lockerbie, Scotland, on December 21, 2008

An engine came crashing down and blasted a hole in the pavement, narrowly missing a row of homesThis barber uses 27 pairs of scissors at the same time to give trendy haircuts - making him the real Edward Scissorhands.

Muhammad Awais, 26, from the Rahwali Cantonment area in Gujranwala, Pakistan, has become a sensation in his hometown after opening a salon six months ago.

The talented hairdresser holds numerous scissors in his hands and quickly snips them to cut hair in the bizarre technique.

Muhammad Awais, 26, from Pakistan, holds the numerous scissors in his hands and quickly snips them to cut hair in the bizarre technique

The salon is always full of customers who patiently wait for their turns to experience Mr Awais's extraordinary haircut skills.

He takes 30 minutes to complete each haircut and charges around 3 for a cut.

Awais said: 'It gives me a proud feeling that I'm able to do something different from others.

'Initially, there were not too many people visiting my salon but in the past couple of months, the number of customers has increased.

Mr Awais has been in the hairdressing industry for 10 years now after training in Iran and working in Italy before moving back to his hometown to open a salon

Mr Awasia uses 27 pairs of scissors simultaneously to give trendy haircuts make him a real life Edward Scissorhands

Mr Awais has become a sensation in his hometown after opening a salon six months ago

'A lot of people are excited to experience my unique haircut technique.'

Mr Awais has been in the hairdressing industry for 10 years now after training in Iran and working in Italy before moving back to his hometown to open a salon.

He Awais said: 'I am very passionate about my work.

'I struggled very hard for many years to master my skills.

'I started using multiple scissors for haircut five years ago.

'First I used seven pairs of scissors, then 12 and presently I use 27 pairs of scissors for cutting hair.'

Mr Awais acknowledges his job isn't easy and he takes extra caution while holding the sharp scissors carefully in three fingers.

He takes 30 minutes to complete each haircut and charges around 3 for a cut

He said: 'It is not an easy job to hold 27 pairs of scissors.

'It requires proper training and experience.

'The scissors have to be used in such a way that the customer's hair is not damaged.'

And while his technique has made him a famous name in his neighbourhood, the barber had to fight with his family to choose his profession.

In many South Asian cultures, working as barber is seen as a lowly profession not preferred by families.

Awais said: 'I was only ten when I lost my father.

Mr Awais said: 'As a teen, I used to watch celebrities in fashionable hairstyles and it would arouse great interest in me'

'I was the eldest child of the six siblings and the family responsibilities fell on my shoulders.

'As a teen, I used to watch celebrities in fashionable hairstyles and it would arouse great interest in me. I thought why not to choose this as my profession.

'But my family and relatives wanted me to do something else. They believed it was not a good profession.

'I didn't give up. I went for training in Iran and then to Italy. I proved all my critics wrong.

'Today, everyone in my family and all my relatives and friends feel proud of me.

'It is my humble request to all those parents who don't let their children take this as a profession that no work is small.'This is the tear-jerking moment a young woman phones her father and bursts into tears when she tells him she is tumour free.

Ariana Marshall, from Salt Lake City, Utah, found out the tumour in her jaw was gone on November 29 and the first person she wanted to tell was her father.

In a video captured her her mother, Miss Marshall sits in a car in the parking lot of Huntsman Cancer Institute as she puts her father on loud speaker to break the news.

Ariana Marshall, from Salt Lake City, Utah, found out the tumour in her jaw was gone

Miss Marshall has a huge smile on her face as she eagerly awaits to tell her good news but her voice breaks as tries not to cry.

She says: 'The tumour is finally gone. It's gone'.

She starts to weep and closes her eyes as her father can be heard exclaiming in disbelief on the other end of the phone.

Her father can be heard on the saying: 'I'm starting to cry and I'm driving'.

Miss Marshall wipes her tears and tries to laugh as she says: 'I don't have to come back here for six months'.

She starts to weep and closes her eyes as her father can be heard exclaiming in disbelief on the other end of the phone

Her father ecstatically replies: 'That is so awesome!'

Miss Marshall celebrates excitably in her seat as she battles the tears of happiness.

She posted the video on Twitter with the caption: 'Been waiting to tell my dad this for a year and a half. Best. Day. Ever!'

Twitter users were quick to congratulate her on the incredible news.

One user said: 'I dont know you, and Im in tears... Congratulations beautiful!!!'

Another user wrote: 'Congrats sweetie! Such great news! Brought me to tears!'Police are hunting man in connection with the alleged rape of a young woman in Whitechapel, London who has been captured on CCTV footage.

The 22-year-old victim was setting off to go home after an evening out in the early hours of Friday, 9 November when she said she was approached by a man in Hanbury Street, near Spitalfields market.

She claimed he followed her into a building just after 2am, overpowered her and then raped her in the basement.

Police have released CCTV footage of their main suspect in an investigation into the rape of a young woman in Whitechapel, London. A still shows footage which was recorded before the attack in which the suspect is seen wearing a bodywarmer

The man left a body-warmer and grey hat at the scene when he left 20 minutes later.

Police released the footage which shows him as he walks down Great Eastern Street towards Shoreditch High Street, around 2.50am.

DCI Neil Rawlinson from CASO said: 'This was a horrific attack carried out by a violent predator on a young woman going about her lawful business in what is one of London's most popular areas for late night socialising. It was a brutal assault that has left her very traumatised indeed.

'I am asking the public to look carefully at the CCTV images we have put out as well as the photo of his body-warmer, which has a distinctive collar and lining, to see if they know who this man is or recognise this article of clothing. We urgently need to trace him and apprehend him in order to protect potential future victims.

'If you have any piece of information at all, however small, please contact us as it could prove vital to our investigation moving forward. All calls will be treated in the strictest of confidence.'

The man left a body-warmer and grey hat at the scene (pictured) when he left 20 minutes later

As part of the new appeal, the investigation team from the Metropolitan Police's Child Abuse and Sexual Offences Command produced a map that uses CCTV to plot the route the suspect walked for about 40 minutes after the offence.

The suspect is first seen on camera around 2.10am at the junction of Commercial Street junction and White's Row, outside Eyediology opticians

He apparently targeted his young victim at 2.15am and left the building around 2.35am

After this he is next spotted on CCTV walking through Spital Square before crossing Bishopsgate.

He walks into Primsore Street at the end of which he takes a right turn into Apollo Street.

As part of the new appeal, the investigation team from the Metropolitan Police's Child Abuse and Sexual Offences Command produced a map that uses CCTV to plot the route the suspect walked for about 40 minutes after the rape

Next he enters Curtain Road and walks to the end, before taking a right onto Great Eastern Street where cameras capture him at around 2.50am walking towards Shoreditch High Street.

The last sighting before the man disappears out of camera range is around 2.52am, when further footage police have shows him from behind, putting his arm up to hail a cab as he is crossing Shoreditch High Street near Goose Island.

A still from CCTV footage showing the police's suspect after the rape

The reflection of a black cab slowing down is captured on camera  the vehicle is believed to have then driven him away.

The 22-year-old victim is being supported by specialist officers.

The suspect is described as a light-skinned black man, believed to be aged between 25 and 35 years.

Call police on 101 if you have information about the incident.A man who gained a woman's trust by helping her drunken friend into a taxi and offering to escort her home raped her in a park on the walk back, NYPD said.

The 20-year-old victim was trying to get her friend home after a Brooklyn house party at around 2.20am on Saturday, when the suspect approached them near Herzl Street and Dumont Avenue in Brownsville.

The man asked if they needed help and flagged down a taxi before loading in the drunk friend, the New York Post reported.

The man posing as a good Samaritan offered to walk a 20-year-old woman home after a house party on Saturday evening in Brooklyn, but then raped her in a nearby park

He then offered to walk the remaining woman home.

However, the suspect took the victim through Betsy Head Park, where he raped her after she rejected his advances, authorities said. Afterwards he fled with with her iPhone and wallet.

The victim managed to flag down a passing motorist, who called an ambulance to take her an area hospital, the Post reported.

Police are trying to trace the suspect, who was still at large last night. He is a white man in his mid 30s to early 40s, wit a ponytail and facial hair.

He as wearing a black jacket with an orange lining, police said. Anyone with any information is asked to contact NYPD.

Locals and community leaders shared their fear and anger yesterday.

The man hailed a taxi for the drunken friend after a Brooklyn house party, but what appeared to be a good deed quickly became sinister

Activist Tony Herbert said part of the problem is that crime suspects are often bailed too early without being vetted, and let loose again in the city's streets.

'This is a serious concern for us because the most vulnerable in our community, nine times out of 10, are our elders, our young people and particularly, our women,' Herbert said at a press briefing on the attack.

'We want the individual who committed this crime . . . arrested immediately.'

Activist Tony Herbert said part of the problem is that crime suspects are often bailed too early without being vetted, and let loose again in the city's streets

Herbert announced a $2,000 reward for information that led to a break in the case and urged local women to stage safe and vigilant.

Home-health attendant Sharon Dickerson, 59, who lives nearby told the Post: 'If you live in this community and you're coming home from work, you should be protected by the cops,' she fumed.

'It's unsafe. I'm angry because it can happen to me.'Helen Webberley, pictured outside court in Merthyr Tydfil today, has been fined 12,000 for running a transgender clinic despite being refused a licence to operate it

A doctor has been fined 12,000 for running an unlicensed transgender clinic where she prescribed sex-change hormones for children as young as 12.

Helen Webberley, 49, ran the online Gender GP clinic from her home in a bid to help children looking for gender reassignment but her licence to operate it was refused.

The GP, from Abergavenny in Wales, continued to run the clinic for almost a year and prescribed hormone treatment which causes permanent body changes, a court was told.

Webberley was convicted of illegally providing healthcare services but said in a statement she was 'acting in the best interests of my patients'.

The doctor charged between 75 and 150 an hour for the service offering specialist advice for transgender patients.

In one case she prescribed hormones to a 12-year-old patient who had been living as a boy and had been taking puberty blockers since the age of nine but was refused testosterone on the NHS.

Her online firm operated without a licence between March 2017 and February 2018, Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court was told, after medical services watchdog Healthcare Inspectorate Wales had refused one last year.

Webberley insisted she was innocent and said shutting her service risked patients coming to harm but District Judge Neil Thomas ruled her company broke the Care Standards Act, saying she had shown a 'clear refusal to follow the law'.

In a statement posted online Webberley said she had never had any complaints from patients.

She said: 'With no other timely route to legitimate treatment, and a strong likelihood that my patients would opt to self medicate without any supervision rather than be sent to the back of the waiting list, I chose to continue to provide support and healthcare to the best of my ability.

Webberley, pictured, prescribed life-changing hormone treatment to children despite a Welsh health watchdog's decision to refuse her Gender GP service a licence to operate

GP Helen Webberley's full statement outside court today After the hearing Dr Webberley said she was 'stunned' at the court's decision. She said: 'I was stunned at the outcome of the hearing held in August which reached its conclusion today. 'I began providing private healthcare to the trans and non binary community because there was a desperate need and there was no such NHS provision within Wales. 'My work, which so many of my patients have called life-saving, has now resulted in a criminal record and this is absolutely devastating for me. 'I never set out to break the law. I had hoped to be able to work with the HIW to register my services while continuing to provide the care that was so desperately needed, but sadly this was not an option. 'The needs of this minority group of people must be recognised. We as a country can do better. The NHS waiting time of up to four years for a first appointment is unconstitutional. Better interim care options must be provided and I urge regulators to take a more collaborative approach. 'I am taking this fight to Parliament. I have written a letter calling for a better deal for trans and non binary people and I urge gender variant people and their allies to lend their support.' Advertisement

'I made the decision to continue providing services, while the issues of registration were resolved,' she said.

'I was acting in the best interests of my patients in continuing to provide support rather than stop as I had been instructed to do.'

After the hearing she said she was 'stunned' at the court's decision, saying: 'I began providing private healthcare to the trans and non binary community because there was a desperate need and there was no such NHS provision within Wales.

'My work, which so many of my patients have called life-saving, has now resulted in a criminal record and this is absolutely devastating for me.

'I never set out to break the law. I had hoped to be able to work with the HIW to register my services while continuing to provide the care that was so desperately needed, but sadly this was not an option.

'The needs of this minority group of people must be recognised. We as a country can do better.

'I am taking this fight to Parliament. I have written a letter calling for a better deal for trans and non binary people and I urge gender variant people and their allies to lend their support.'

Russell Davies, defending her in court, said Webberley set up the company in 2014 and received a 'snowballing' of interest.

Mr Davies said: 'Webberley didn't set up the company for financial gain or for profit at all.

'Here was a doctor who was providing care, information and advice that was very much needed. But her business was not registered.

'It was never anticipated by Webberley that the registration of the company would be in any way controversial.

The 49-year-old doctor, pictured left outside Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates Court today, charged between 75 and 150 an hour for the service offering specialist advice

'She didn't appreciate that the company needed registration until it was pointed out to her.

'Webberley always followed the international guidelines for transgender care, but what she didn't do was to state how many patients there were, how old they were and what treatment was included.

'It is regrettable that she didn't provide that information. She didn't provide it due to confidentiality and that was misplaced.

'She was a very caring practitioner who never developed the company for financial gain. She was only motivated by the care of her patients.'

District Judge Neale Thomas ordered Webberley to pay a 12,000 fine as well as a 2,000 fine issued to her GenderGP buisness.

Dr Webberley was also told to pay 11,307 costs.

Judge Thomas said: 'In this case there seems to be a clear refusal to follow the law and that is a significant aggravating factor.

'Webberley was a doctor of considerable experience. The court has to regard this offence as serious.'The mother of a man paralysed in a horrific motorsport accident in Japan burst into tears when her son returned home on Monday.

Last month, Daniel Westwood travelled to Japan to compete in a drift racing event, a new-age sport where the driver intentionally over-steers, causing the vehicles to slide at speed.

But tragically Westwood lost control of his car and crashed.

The 25-year-old was initially facing more than $100,000 in medical bills, but a series of generous donations from strangers helped bring him home to Perth and into the arms of his worried mother, Karen Triffett.

Daniel Westwood (left) with his girlfriend Shaylise Nepia - following a recent accident in Japan Westwood will never walk again

Scenes were emotional at Perth Airport on Friday when Daniel Westwood (pictured) arrived home from Japan

'It's good to be back home,' Westwood told Channel 7 after touching down at Perth Airport.

Westwood has been informed by doctors he won't ever walk again.

He also can longer use both of his arms.

Daily Mail Australia understands Westwood had medical insurance in Asia - but it failed to cover motorsports.

Last month, Daniel Westwood travelled to Japan to compete in a drift racing event, a new-age sport where the driver intentionally over-steers, causing the vehicles to slide at speed

Westwood has been informed by doctors he won't ever walk again

Mr Westwood (right) pictured with his mother Karen Triffett

Ms Triffett conceded her son faces a difficult and uncertain future.

'It will always be a hope he walks again,' she told Perth Now.

'But he's just determined to live the best possible life he can with what he's got.'A man was almost falling-over drunk when he 'body slammed' a flight attendant because she tried to stop him videoing her on his mobile phone, a Perth court has heard.

Patrick Walters is on trial in the District Court of WA, charged with the specific offence of assaulting a member of an aircraft crew.

The incident unfolded on an April 2017 Qantas flight from Port Hedland to Brisbane as preparations for take-off were underway and flight attendants realised two men had used each other's boarding passes.

A man was almost falling-over drunk when he 'body slammed' a flight attendant because she tried to stop him videoing her on his mobile phone, a Perth court has heard (stock image)

After Karen Dwyer told Walters he couldn't do that, he started videoing her on his phone.

She said she objected to him doing it because she was wearing a government-issued security clearance guard, which should not be made public by being put on social media or the like, and told him to stop filming two to three times.

Her colleague Laura Norton said Ms Dwyer tried to turn the video off by touching the red button but Walters kept moving the phone away.

'She was being very direct. She was getting very agitated with him filming,' Ms Norton said.

'There was a struggle for the phone and then she was pushed up against the galley... with his full body weight on top of her.'

The incident unfolded on an April 2017 Qantas flight from Port Hedland to Brisbane

The court heard Ms Norton said 'stop it' several times, then a passenger in the business class section and the manager intervened.

Walters was escorted off the plane by ground crew.

Both women testified Walters was drunk, with Ms Norton saying he dropped a pair of headphones or ear muffs when he got into the plane, almost falling over trying to pick them up.

Walters' defence counsel argues Ms Dwyer had no authority to touch the phone as taking video did not interfere with the flight.

'He failed to comply with cabin crew,' she said, adding the incident caused a three-and-a-half hour delay.An Iranian women's rights activist and journalist has been sentenced to 12 years and nine months in jail on 'undisclosed' charges.

Hengameh Shahidi was also given temporary bans on joining political groups, online or media activity, and leaving the country, the official IRNA news agency reported on Saturday.

'Given the confidentiality of the proceedings and the security nature of the case, I cannot disclose details about the court's verdict,' Shahidi's lawyer Mostafa Turk Hamedani told the official government news agency IRNA.

Shahidi, 43, has been in jail since June after months at large during which she was active on social media.

Women's rights activist Hengameh Shahidi has been sentenced to 12 years and nine months in jail on 'undisclosed' charges

The outspoken journalist has served many short prison terms, the first following the controversial 2009 president election that led to the re-election of former hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

Since then, Iran has detained numerous journalist and activists over security charges including lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh, 55.

Her imprisonment came after she took on the cases of dozens of women who had been arrested for standing in public areas without their headscarves, which has been mandatory in Iran since the Islamic revolution of 1979.

Among the women she represented were a 31-year-old woman who became known as The Girl In Enghelab Street after she took off her head scarf and held it in the air while standing on a pillar box in central Tehran in December.

The Girl In Enghelab Street was hailed as a hero after her arrest and became an icon for the anti-hijab movement, inspiring similar protests across the country.

Shahidi, 43, has been in jail since June after months at large during which she was active on social media

Human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh, 55, was also arrested earlier this year accused of 'making insults' on Twitter, and has been imprisoned in Tehran, Iran since

Soutoudeh is pictured with husband Reza Khandan at the place where one of the most famous anti-hijab protests took place

Ms Sotoudeh helped a woman known as The Girl In Enghelab Street, who became the pin-up of the movement when she took off her headscarf in public in the capital of Tehran in December

In 2012, Ms Sotoudeh won the European Parliament's prestigious Sakharov human rights award for her work on high-profile cases, including those of convicts on death row for offences committed as minors.

She spent three years in prison between 2010 and 2013 for 'actions against national security' and spreading 'propaganda against the system' and remains banned from representing political cases or leaving Iran until 2022.

Sotoudeh has defended journalists and activists including Nobel Peace laureate Shirin Ebadi and several dissidents arrested during mass protests in 2009 against the disputed re-election of hardline president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

She had recently spoken out against a new criminal code that allowed only a small number of lawyers to represent individuals charged with state security offences -- just 20 for the whole of the capital Tehran for instance.A teenager in Alabama was told to remove her braids and change her hair color or risk losing her job at a chicken restaurant.

Tierra Fleeton, 18, has worked at Zaxbys in Mobile for more than two years and was sent home because she dyed her hair red and now has braids.

The teenager's mother believes she is being discriminated against in her workplace.

Tierra Fleeton (above) has worked at Zaxbys in Mobile for more than two years and was sent home because she dyed her hair red and now has braids

Tierra was told she would be removed from the schedule if she didnt dye her red hair back to black and remove the braids by Saturday.

It is not yet known if she was contacted by the company but she insisted that she would not remove the braids.

Yolanda Singleton told NBC15: 'I feel like its a discrimination against my daughter.

'Its not right. I feel that its not right and it needs to be stopped'.

Tierra said she loves her job but feels being told to change her dye is discriminatory.

She said: 'I was informed last night when I was working that the general manager asked me how long is it going to take me to get your hair out? I said what do you mean by that?

Tierra said it is not the first time a manager has remarked on her hair style and color

Her mother Yolanda Singleton (above) believes Tierra is being discriminated against

'She said if you dont have your hair back black or have the braids taken out then I will remove you from the schedule. I was like that doesnt make any sense'.

Her mother said the company told her daughter that her hair style 'didn't fit' in with the company.

Tierra, 18, said she was also told last summer that the owner of the restaurant had a problem with her hairstyle.

She added: 'I spoke to my general manager at that time and he assured me that he didnt have a problem with my hair, but the owner did.

'My mom called her November 2 about it and she assured her that it was okay, that nothing was wrong and I wasnt going to lose my job over hair color but now, its a different story'.

The owner of Zaxby's called the incident a 'misunderstanding' but has not contacted Tierra

Joanna Davis, franchise owner of Zaxby's on Schillnger Road, called the incident a 'misunderstanding' in a statement to NBC15 over the weekend.

Davis said: 'We welcome team members to express themselves and celebrate their individuality including wearing braided hairstyles.

'The braids are not an issue and we are going to work to ensure that our managers and team members clearly understand our uniform policy'.

As of Saturday, Fleeton did not hear from the owner and said she did not plan to show up for work on Saturday as she wanted to follow her general manager's orders.

Fleeton was awarded employee of the month and on the verge of a promotion. However, she said the promotion has not yet happened and they do not know why.

Her mother said: 'The general manager said he was getting ready to make her a trainer management.

'She said she wasnt going to be the perfect fit for this company and I assume it was because of her hair'.

'The owners said I dont fit in the Zaxbys look. I dont fit the look for Zaxbys and I was like what does that mean?

'I guess it was because of my hair. I have always had burgundy hair since they hired me'.Jeffrey Epstein's victims may finally get to publicly testify against him, more than a decade after the billionaire took a very lenient plea deal to avoid federal charges - as it emerges that a Manhattan DA once attempted to downgrade his sex offender status.

Jury selection begins on Tuesday for the civil trial case against the registered sex offender who was accused of running a child sex pyramid scheme from 1995 to 2005, where he allegedly pimped out 80 young girls and women to his friends.

Such serious allegations could have sent him to prison for life.

But his powerful lawyers landed him an extraordinary sweetheart deal where he pleaded guilty to two counts of soliciting girls as young as 14 for prostitution and avoided federal criminal charges.

He served 13 months out of an 18-month sentence in the private wing of the Palm Beach County stockade, the local jail, in 2008. Then he seemingly walked a free man.

The victims of Jeffrey Epstein, who has been accused of pimping out 80 women, may finally testify against him in a civil case that starts jury selection on Tuesday in Palm Beach County Court

'How come people who don't have money get sent to jail  and can't even make bail  and they have to do their time and sit there and think about what they did wrong? He had no repercussions and doesn't even believe he did anything wrong,' alleged victim Michelle Licata said to the Miami Herald.

Even after an FBI investigation found girls who Epstein had brought to his Palm Beach mansion, many as young as 13 and often runaways from Florida, New Mexico, the Caribbean and New York, he was allowed to sign the extraordinary plea deal to avoid all federal charges.

Former chief federal prosecutor in Miami R. Alexander Acosta - who is now President Donald Trump's labor secretary - signed off on Epstein's plea.

Victims were outraged at the court's treatment of the billionaire, who counted Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, and Prince Andrew among his rich and powerful friends.

The deal was a federal non-prosecution agreement and was sealed, meaning no one knew the entirety of Epstein's crimes and it buried the evidence of how he pimped out 80 women.

He was accused of pimping out 80 young girls and women to his friends, one of whom was named as Prince Andrew by victim Virginia Roberts (pictured with the Prince) in a civil court claim in 2015

Virginia Roberts, pictured above, claimed Epstein abused her sexually at the age of 16

Alleged victim Michelle Licata sheds tears as she recalled her sexual encounters with Epstein saying 'He had no repercussions and doesn't even believe he did anything wrong'

None of the Epstein's victims were initially informed of the nonprosecution agreement.

'I don't think anyone has been told the truth about what Jeffrey Epstein did,' added Licata, now 30. 'He ruined my life and a lot of girls' lives. People need to know what he did and why he wasn't prosecuted so it never happens again.'

Jennifer Gaffney, a former assistant DA, asked a Manhattan judge to downgrade Epstein's New York sex offender status in 2011

Then in January 2011 Assistant DA Jennifer Gaffney, who was in charge of the sex-crimes unit, asked to knock down his New York sex-offender registry, from the most-dangerous Level 3 to Level 1, outraging the Manhattan Supreme Court Judge.

Court documents show the DA's office said 'there are no real victims here', according to records obtained by the New York Post.

'I have never seen the prosecutor's office do anything like this. I have done many [cases] much less troubling than this one where [prosecutors] would never make a downward argument like this,' Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Ruth Pickholz told Gaffney at the time.

Gaffney then confessed she had never even spoken to the Florida U.S. Attorney who handled Epstein's case.

'I don't think you did much of an investigation here,' Pickholz told her, rejecting the request and keeping Epstein's sex offender status as Level 3.

Gaffney, who was also a prosecutor in the Harvey Weinstein case, left the DA's Office in September.

The underage girls were lured to Epstein's mansion in Florida with the lure of a couple hundred dollars to give him a massage- he allegedly sexually assaulted many of them

Trump's current Labor Secretary Alex Acosta (right) was the top federal prosecutor in Miami that brokered the deal to have Epstein serve just over a year behind bars instead of life behind bars

She was deputy chief t oCyrus Vance, who has now landed in hot water for her 2011 request. T

he DA's office insists Vance 'was not aware' of the hearing and had nothing to do with it.

Even though Epstein's crimes were buried in the sealed case, his victims may finally be able to speak out on how they were lured to his Palm Beach mansion and asked to give massages that turned sexual.

Jury selection for the civil trial against him in Palm Beach County Court in Florida begins this week.

The case is being brought by lawyer Bradley Edwards.

He's countersuing Epstein claiming malicious prosecution. Epstein earlier sued him saying Edward's civil cases involving Epstein victims financed an unlawful Ponzi scheme run by Scott Rothstein, a partner at Edward's former law firm.

Rothstein said Edwards was not involved in the financial scheme.

Edwards wrote in a court filing that if the victims knew about the nonprosecution agreement 'they would have taken steps to object', according to the New York Times.

Epstein could be stripped of his criminal prosecution immunity if the case succeeds, possibly leading to a federal trial for the sex crimes.

Edwards's lawyer, Jack Scarola, said: 'If the case is successful and with the agreement cancelled, Epstein's immunity from federal criminal prosecution will be revoked.

'That means he, plus his named co-conspirators and his unnamed co-conspirators will face the possibility of federal prosecution.

'In a subsequent criminal trial it is very likely that many of the victims will be called to give evidence and have their stories heard.'

He added that Prince Andrew may get dragged into the case again too saying: 'There is a reasonable likelihood that would occur.'New Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay got the day of Britain's exit from the EU wrong as he was grilled by MPs for the first time in the job.

In an embarrassing slip-up, he told the Brexit select committee today that Britain is leaving the EU on March 31 next year, whereas the UK is leaving on March 29.

The little-known MP was dramatically promoted to the senior Cabinet job last month when Dominic Raab suddenly quit the post in protest at Theresa May's deal.

Talking about a future trade deal, Mr Barclay told MPs: 'I am committed to ensuring, and the Prime Minister is committed to ensuring, that we do deliver on that - we do leave the EU on the 31st of March.

'And by that point we're then in a position to be able to agree a trade agreement, but we can't do that before we have left.'

Mr Barclay made the error as he was grilled alongside the PM's chief Brexit adviser Oliver Robbins, who admitted the deal's hugely controversial backstop is 'uncomfortable'.

New Brexit Secretary Stephen Barclay (pictured left today) accidentally got the date of Brexit day wrong - saying it falls on March 31 next year , whereas actually the UK leaves on March 29. The Prime Minister's chief Brexit adviser Oliver Robbins (pictured left today) admitted the deal's hugely controversial backstop is 'uncomfortable but necessary' for the UK

The pair were quizzed by the Brexit select committee (pictured today) just eight days before the crunch Brexit vote in the Commons on December 11

Theresa May (pictured leaving No10 today) is facing the toughest week of her political career as the crunch Brexit vote looms on December 11 while her premiership is hanging by a thread

Mr Robbins insisted that despite its shortcomings, Brussels would not accept any kind of deal which did not include a plan B backstop to keep the Irish border soft.

He was quizzed hours after it emerged he wrote to the PM warning her that the backstop is a 'bad outcome'.

In the leaked letter, he said it will undermine security co-operation and there isn't a legal 'guarantee' Britain can escape it, leaving the UK trapped in a customs union with the EU.

Mr Robbins said: 'I think the backstop is not the future relationship which either the UK or the EU want to have with each other.

'It is an uncomfortable position for both sides. The reality is that there is not a Withdrawal Agreement without a backstop.'

His warning was repeated by Mr Barclay, who was appearing in front of the committee for the first time since he was promoted to the job last month.

Mr Barclay said: 'Whether it is Norway, Canada plus, or the various deals that have been floated - it will always need a backstop.'

PM's chief Brexit adviser Oliver Robbins admits the backstop is 'uncomfortable' The Prime Minister's chief Brexit adviser today admitted the deal's hugely controversial backstop is 'uncomfortable' for the UK. Oliver Robbins said Brussels would not accept any kind of deal which did not include a plan B backstop to keep the Irish border soft. In the leaked letter, he said it will undermine security co-operation and there isn't a legal 'guarantee' Britain can escape it, leaving the UK trapped in a customs union with the EU. Quizzed by MPs, Mr Robbins said: 'I think the backstop is not the future relationship which either the UK or the EU want to have with each other. 'It is an uncomfortable position for both sides. The reality is that there is not a Withdrawal Agreement without a backstop.' Advertisement

But it was also suggested that Britain had drawn up an alternate plan which would allow the UK to pull out of the backstop unilaterally, without the EU's permission.

Mrs May has repeatedly been urged by her Tory backbench critics and the powerful DUP to go back to Brussels and get a deal which does precisely this.

Many believe this is the only way her deal stands a chance of being passed by the Commons in the face of overwhelming opposition - including by 101 of her mutinous backbenchers who have vowed to vote it down.

Asked about such a plan, Mr Robbins said: 'Ministers asked us to look at a whole range of options for how to bring the backstop to an end, and so we did.

'And the Prime Minister and other ministers tested some of those out on European partners.

'But, what we went into the negotiation with in the end was a text that delivered the termination clause very much as it is laid out there.'

Mr Robbins also hinted that he is in favour of an extension to the two year Brexit transition period

He said: 'It is true that if the UK were to enter into an extension of the transition period some of the negative consequences of being in the backstop won't apply.'

The grilling comes as the PM is facing the toughest week of her political career as she desperately tries to get her under-fire Brexit deal passed on December 11.

Mr Barclay dismissed suggestions the vote could be pulled by Tory whips amid overwhelming signs it will be defeated.

He said: 'I think the vote will happen next Tuesday and I look forward to making the case.'

Challenged by Tory Brexiteer Andrea Jenkyns on if he is confident it will get passed next week, he said: 'I think it is challenging. Everyone recognises that. But there is clearly time between now and the vote.'

Mrs Jenkyns pressed him on if there is a Plan B, saying said: 'The country wants to know.'

Mr Barclay admitted it is 'unclear' and said 'it could be no deal, it could be no Brexit'.

He added: 'What I hear all the time from business that they want certainty...what needs to be the focus and what the political declaration unlocks, is the future relationship.

'As a Brexiteer and an optimist for the future, as someone who wants to trade with the world, I want to look to that future trading relationship.'

Blair grilled on the breakfast sofa on why he is backing another referendum? Tony Blair (pictured on GMB today) stepped up his campaign for a second Brexit referendum - and said Theresa May's deal should not be an option on another ballot Tony Blair faced a fiery grilling today as he was challenged over why he is calling for another Brexit referendum just two years after the historic vote. The ex-PM is stepping up his campaign for a so-called People's Vote and lashed Theresa May's deal for 'yielding' too much to Brussels. Appearing on ITV's Good Morning Britain, he said another referendum should be held which gives Britons a choice between staying in the EU or having a Boris Johnson-style hard Brexit. But presenters Susanna Reid and Piers Morgan quizzed him over why Remain should even be on the ballot two years after the side lost. In a heated exchange with the ex Labour leader, Susanna said: 'Why should Remain even be an option on the second referendum? Why isn't it a choice between May's deal and an alternative Brexit? 'Because the whole Remain camp didn't win that campaign. Why should we re-run that part of the referendum? Why would Brexiteers - people who voted to leave , not feel utterly infuriated that is being re-run?' Mr Blair hit back, saying: 'I think if you had a referendum and you excluded the possibility of remaining I think your 16-odd million people who voted Remain would feel a great sense of disillusion if they weren't able to make their case again.' Advertisement

But the pair faced fiery questioning from Tory MP and leading Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg, who said the backstop would mean 'taxation without representation'.

He said: 'If the EU raises tariffs we will have to follow and it will mean we will have to follow and that means taxation without representation.'

Mr Barclay said: 'I don't accept that at all.'

But in a withering response, Mr Rees-Mogg said it looked as if the new Brexit Secretary did not understand what he was talking about, and said this is 'worrying'.

And Tory MP and arch Eurosceptic Peter Bone furiously demanded to know when the PM changed her mind and decided the transition should be extended to beyond the end of 2020.

But Mr Barclay insisted that leaving the transition by the end of 2020 is still policy, but No10 has now decided that it could be extended by a few months further.

Mr Bone furiously said it is 'not helpful when ministers and civil servants refuse to answer a straight question' and accused the pair of 'flying in the face of the facts'.

Mr Barclay also poured scorn on demands by a group of Tory and Labour MPs for Mrs May to tear up her Brexit plan and go for a Norway-style deal with Brussels instead.

He told the committee: 'I don't think the Norway option respects the referendum result.'

He said such a deal would leave Britain having to swallow rules drawn up in Brussels without having a say in them.

The grilling came as Mrs May today faced a fresh barrage of attacks from all sides over her Brexit deal.

She is trying to appeal to the country over the heads of her warring MPs, and today appeared on ITV's This Morning sofa to urge MPs to protect their constituents' jobs and back her deal.

But she faced a battle of the breakfast sofas as Labour ex PM and arch Remainer Tony Blair tried to turn the screw by appearing on ITV's Good Morning Britain to demand a second referendum.

And he said that the PM's deal should not even be on the ballot paper - saying instead voters should be given a choice between remain and a 'true Brexit' of the type advocated by Boris Johnson.

While a group of Remain-backing MPs from across the political divide delivered a stack of petitions to No10 today to demand a second vote.

And Mrs May could face being held in contempt of Parliament as Tory rebels unite with the DUP and Labour to demand full legal advice on her Brexit deal is released.

The Prime Minister is resisting huge pressure to disclose the private opinion Attorney General Geoffrey Cox gave on the package she has thrashed out with Brussels.

The eminent QC and strident Brexiteer was a key figure in forcing the deal through the Cabinet - but there are claims his formal written advice was far bleaker and he warned the UK would be stuck 'indefinitely' in the Irish border backstop.

Despite a Commons motion being passed demanding the full document, ministers only released a summary as the full material would break convention and undermine the operation of government.

Boris Johnson today joined condemnation of the refusal, saying it was a 'scandal' and pointing out that Mrs May previously called for advice on the Iraq War to be released.

Commons Speaker John Bercow could launch contempt proceedings - triggering a formal investigation in the PM or her most senior colleagues.

The potential punishments include suspension or expulsion from the House, although they have not been deployed for decades.A Frenchman who caused the Nobel Prize in Literature to be delayed until next year after he was convicted of rape has been found guilty of a second attack.

Jean-Claude Arnault, 72, who is married to Swedish Academy member Katarina Frostenson, had appealed against a two-year sentence for raping a woman in 2011.

But judges not only rejected his appeal on Monday but found him guilty of a second offence against the same woman and jailed him for an additional six months, bringing his total sentence to two and a half years.

The scandal around Arnault caused this year's literature prize to be delayed until 2019 after eight members of the 18-person judging panel quit in protest.

Jean-Claude Arnault, 72, the husband of Swedish Academy member Katarina Frostenson, has been found guilty of a second rape while trying to appeal against his first offence

At Arnault's original trial in Stockholm, judges found the second allegation wasn't credible because the victim was asleep and her account was ruled 'unreliable'.

But the appeals court made 'a different assessment,' saying it was 'beyond any reasonable doubt that the accused was guilty of rape' in the second case.

The woman's deposition 'gave a credible impression,' adding that her account 'was strongly supported by those of several witnesses,' and found them 'reliable and sufficient' for a conviction.

The court also said it had taken into consideration Arnault's age and 'the unusually long time from the offense committed to the prosecution.'

In Sweden, rape is punishable by a minimum of two years and a maximum of six years in prison.

At the same time Arnault faced his first rape trial, Frostenson faced claims of corruption over a club she ran with Arnault which was handed Academy funding.

When the Academy decided not to expel her, others quit.

Frostenson also faced claims that she leaked the names of literature prize winners - which is a valuable commodity on betting markets - to Arnault on seven occasions.

Frostenson refused to quit the Academy even as allegations swirled around her husband, prompting eight other members to quit and delaying the 2018 literature prize until 2019

In October, the Academy passed a motion begging her to quit and pledging a second investigation into the betting claims, but she currently remains a member.

The charges against Arnault have rocked the prestigious body with the Nobel Foundation warned the Academy that if it doesn't resolve its tarnished image, it could decide that another group would be a better host.

Earlier this month, the body said five Swedish Academy members and five outsiders - two authors, two critics and one translator - will pick two Nobel literature winners next year, the 2019 winner and the delayed 2018 winner.

They will also later choose the 2020 Nobel winner. All are Swedes.

Arnault's lawyer, Bjorn Hurtig, said the Frenchman was 'seriously stunned, stupefied and saddened,' and they would appeal to Sweden's Supreme Court.

Elisabeth Massi Fritz, the lawyer for the unnamed victim, told Swedish broadcaster SVT that her client was 'extremely grateful and relieved.'

Prosecutor Christina Voigt called the sentence 'a reasonable penalty.'

In 2017, 18 women came forward in a Swedish newspaper with abuse accusations against Arnault.

An Academy investigation found in April that 'unacceptable behavior in the form of unwanted intimacy' had taken place in the ranks of the prestigious institution.

The academy's former permanent secretary, Sara Danius, quit in April at the same time as Frostenson, leading observers to wonder why some of Sweden's most accomplished women appeared to be the taking the fall for a man's misconduct.

A fierce internal debate over how to face up to the academy's flaws divided its members into hostile camps.

After the sex abuse allegations surfaced, the academy's annual funding to Arnault's cultural center was immediately halted, and the body stressed it had not been paid to Arnault personally.A woman was violated last week by a brazen man who groped her during her commute on a New York City train.

New York police said in a press statement that the man grabbed the woman's buttocks on Wednesday during rush-hour.

The incident occurred on the A train near the 8th Avenue and 14th Street train station.

A 34-year-old woman was violated last week by a brazen man who groped her during her commute on a New York City train. The man (pictured) then gave a thumbs-up as another commuter took a photo

Authorities said in a press release on Saturday that the 34-year-old woman was approached by the man around 9.40am.

He grabbed her buttocks and then flashed a thumbs-up as another subway rider took a photo of him.

Authorities said the male wanted for questioning is described as Hispanic, around 5'8", and weighing about 180 pounds.

In the photo, the man is seen wearing a black jacket.

Police said he was also wearing black jeans and black shoes at the time of the incident.

The NYPD is asking for anyone who knows anything about the incident or suspect, to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS.Vice Admiral Scott Stearney, 58, was found dead in his Bahrain residence, according to a US Navy statement on Saturday

The mystery surrounding a decorated Navy admiral's apparent suicide death in Bahrain over the weekend has deepened as key details about how he apparently took his own life remain unknown.

Vice Admiral Scott Stearney, 58, was found dead in his residence in Bahrain on Saturday but it is not yet known who found him, when his body was found or what the circumstances behind the discovery were.

All that the Navy will say is that there is no foul play suspected but that its Criminal Investigative Service is probing his death alongside Bahrain's Ministry of Interior.

A spokesman for the Navy's Criminal Investigative Service told DailyMail.com on Monday: 'This investigation is ongoing so we cannot provide any comment at this time.

'There is no set timeline for how long such investigations take to complete.'

Vice Admiral Stearney had an illustrious 36-year career in the Navy before taking control of the US Fifth Fleet, which controls the Navy's presence in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Arabian Sea, in May this year.

The Fifth Fleet's position is one of the most crucial in the Navy's infrastructure.

It is planted in the middle of several of the US's most unpredictable allies and adversaries; Iran, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, and Kuwait.

On September 9, Admiral Stearney spoke optimistically about the Navy's presence and operations in a conference call with members of the Arab media where he admonished Iran for its destabilizing tactics and vowed to use his fleet to keep peace in the region.

He spoke at length about four exercises the Fifth Fleet was engaging in which were all designed to 'show the Navy and our partners are capable of operating and protecting critical choke points and waterways throughout the region.'

He described them as counter-mine capability exercises 'which means we remove the mine threat from the waters.'

Explaining the tactic, he said: 'Its a defensive methodology to ensure that were able to maintain the free flow of commerce through these choke points.'

Admiral Stearney (left with his wife Shelly) was optimistic about the Fifth Fleet's position in the Middle East and spoke openly about his plans with members of the Arab media in September this year during a conference call. He is shown right in July

When asked about Iran's recent actions which Defence Secretary James Mattis recently described as 'ongoing mischief', he said: 'Irans activities across the region are not helpful and theyre promoting instability in a way that is affecting the region significantly.'

He was most critical of its support of the Houthi movement, a group of armed, pro-Islamists who are currently locked in a civil war in Yemen.

'Irans activities across the region are not helpful and theyre promoting instability in a way that is affecting the region significantly Admiral Scott Stearney on a September 9 phone call with Arab journalists

There were also several questions about what the US's response would be should Iran close off the Strait of Hormuz, a key stretch of water which sits between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman which much of the world's oil is transported through.

It is the only point of access to the wider ocean for Oman, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait.

Stearney would not answer when asked if the US would wage war on Iran if it shut it down, saying instead: 'I dont think we should talk about hypotheticals... the U.S. and our partners provide and promote security and stability in the region.

'Together that we stand ready to ensure the freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce where international law allows.

The Fifth Fleet's position is one of the most crucial in the Navy's infrastructure. Its HQ is in Bahrain but the fleet operates in the Arabian Sea, the Red Sea, the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Aden

'We are postured to defend and protect, not to cause international crises and provocation and escalation.

'We are here for the stability and the security of this region and for nothing else.'

At the end of the call, he thanked the 'great' journalists for taking the time to let him explain the exercises and said: 'The maritime space in this region is critical to the flow of commerce and freedom of navigation across the globe.

'It connects the Pacific to the Mediterranean and Europe, then into the Atlantic.'

The U.S. Fifth Fleet with regional and global partners has the ability to simultaneously execute Full Spectrum distributed operations in the maritime environment across these three choke points.

The Navy has not offered any information about Admiral Stearney's mental health since that phone call.

The US Navy's Crntral Command in Manama, Bahrain. It remains unclear how Admiral Stearney was found, who found him or even when he died

In announcing his death, it asked for privacy for his wife, Shelly, and their two children who live in Virginia.

'This is devastating news for the Stearney family, for the team at Fifth Fleet and for the entire Navy.

'Scott Stearney was a decorated Naval warrior, he was a devoted husband and father and he was a good friend to all of us,' Admiral John Richardson said.

'I ask that you keep the Stearney family in your prayers and respect their privacy as they navigate through these very difficult times,' he added.

Bahrain's Ministry of Interior did not return requests for more information.

Stearney was a native of Chicago, Illinois. He earned a degree in economics from the University of Notre Dame before enlisting in the Navy in 1982.

He then became a fighter pilot, graduating from Navy Fighter Weapons School, which is more commonly known as TOP GUN.

Stearney also earned a degree from the National Defense University.

During his career, Stearney flew the FA-18 Hornet. He also served in Kabul, Afghanistan as chief of a joint task force.

During his career, he amassed more than 4,500 mishap free flight hours and more than 1,000 carrier-arrested landings, according to the Navy.Chinese authorities are now pushing for a 'comprehensive wedding reform' to crack down on extravagant ceremonies.

Current 'lavish and wasteful' wedding practices including sky-high monetary gifts and vulgar hazing rituals have encouraged 'rampant money worship' and 'declining morality,' according to the Ministry of Civil Affairs.

Couples are now encouraged to celebrate their big day in a more civilised, traditional and frugal way, the ministry said at a conference on Friday.

Couples take part in the hot air balloon group wedding in Nanjing, Jiangsu. Chinese authorities are now pushing for a 'comprehensive wedding reform' to crack down on lavish ceremonies

A couple dangling off a cliff poses for wedding photos at Chaya Mountain in Henan Province

Wedding costs in China have skyrocketed over the last two decades, especially in rural areas. People have increasingly found the need to compete with neighbours and friends in spending more money on weddings including expensive receptions, lavish outfits and overseas wedding shoots.

Officials in some cities last year placed a cap on increasing 'bride prices' - money paid by the groom's parents to the brides' family, saying the practice has been getting out of hand, reaching more than 100,000 yuan (11,000) in some poorer rural villages.

At the same time, hazing rituals - pranks couples are put through to help them relax before the wedding ceremony - have often resulted in violence and assault.

A bride and groom take their wedding photos while rock-climbing in Jinhua, Zhejiang province

A groom and his bride are pictured as they head to his home by boat on the river in a traditional Chinese wedding procession in Foshan city, Guangdong province

Just last week, a man's big day ended in tragedy when he was hit by a car while trying to escape pranksters who had stripped him down to his underpants and beaten him.

Last November, several bridesmaids were injured by broken glass when the groom's party tried to break the door of the bride's house with an axe.

A groom in central China's Zhengzhou city nearly died on his wedding day last year after guests strapped him to a tree and emptied half a dozen fire extinguishers in his face during the stunt.

The current issues 'not only hinder growth and poverty alleviation in rural areas, but also affect the harmony of families and healthy development of society,' the ministry said at a national conference in Jinan, Shandong province.

A couple take wedding photos near the Songhua River in Jilin province, north-east China

Ceremonies should integrate Xi Jinping Thought, the Chinese president's political ideology, and traditional culture to combat negative social trends and wrong values, the ministry announced.

Local authorities would be asked to standardise marriage rituals and come up with simple and appropriate wedding etiquette rules to tackle these issues, ministry official Yang Zongtao said in an interview with state broadcaster CCTV.

Officials will be urged to provide personalised, sacred marriage registration ceremonies to draw people away from holding lavish celebrations.

The new directive is similar to a funeral reform underway in the country, where authorities seek to simplify funeral practices and regulate service prices.

Previously, excessive funerals have seen families go into severe debt to hold elaborate rituals involving strippers and professional mourning services.President Donald Trump pressured Democrats to fund his wall or grapple with a shut down of the border on Monday morning as he revived his immigration demands, despite a former president's passing.

Trump had signaled over the weekend that he's willing to sign a two-week federal budget extension to allow Congress to honor the life of former President George H.W. Bush without the distraction of an impending partial government shutdown.

As Bush's body was headed to Washington to lie in state in the U.S. Capitol, the sitting president whacked Democrats and put new pressure on legislators to give him the $5 billion he needs to complete the structure.

'We would save Billions of Dollars if the Democrats would give us the votes to build the Wall. Either way, people will NOT be allowed into our Country illegally! We will close the entire Southern Border if necessary. Also, STOP THE DRUGS!' the president said.

President Donald Trump pressured Democrats to fund his wall or grapple with a shut down of the border on Monday morning as he revived his immigration demands, despite a former president's passing

As Bush's body was headed to Washington to lie in state in the U.S. Capitol, the sitting president whacked Democrats and put new pressure on legislators to give him the $5 billion he needs to complete the structure

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on the way back from the G20 summit in Argentina, Trump revealed that lawmakers asked him after Bush's death late Friday for a longer window of time to hammer out their differences.

'If they come to me, which they already have, and they said, "You know, Mr. President",' Trump mused, before adding: 'I would absolutely consider it and probably give it.'

Many federal agencies will run out of money on Friday at midnight, unless Congress and the White House agree on a path forward.

Senate Democrats have offered the president two paths forward -- $1.6 billion that he can spend on fencing or a continuing resolution for Homeland Security that would keep the government open.

A partial shutdown for agencies that have not been fully-funded will take place on Dec. 7 without action. Lawmakers are considering a one-week or two-week resolution that could push the fight until four days until Christmas on Dec. 21.

The appetite for a political fight over spending was lacking in Washington with Bush set to arrive on a special air mission. He will be memorialized by Vice President Mike Pence and legislators at the U.S. Capitol on Monday afternoon.

President Donald Trump said Saturday that lawmakers have asked him for a longer window of time to hammer out their budget differences, in light of President George H.W. Bush's death late Friday

Many federal agencies will run out of money on Friday at midnight unless Congress and the White House agree on a path forward; the president says he's willing to let funding lapse in order to stand tough on border security issues

The 41st president of the United States, George H.W. Bush died Friday night at age 94; he's pictured with his wife Barbara last year in Houston

The 41st president is set to be honored with a state funeral, a ceremony at the National Cathedral and a national day of mourning Wednesday, as well.

Trump and Congress had both been bracing for the fallout from a shutdown.

The president is seeking billions of dollars for his long-promised wall along the U.S.-Mexico border.

House Democrats are in no mood to be generous since they'll take over control of the chamber in January.

In the Senate, where spending bills require the assent of 60 lawmakers in order to move forward, Democrats are in wait-and-see mode.

Senate Democratic Minority Leader Chuck Schumer dared Trump on Thursday to 'throw a temper tantrum and shut down some departments and agencies over Christmas.'

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, dared Trump to 'throw a temper tantrum' that would put millions of government workers off the payrolls during the Christmas holiday season

The president wants $5 billion for border wall construction between the U.S. and Mexico

Questions are swirling throughout Washington about a possible 'wall-for-DACA' deal, where the president would agree to package $5 billion in wall funding with a plan to give legal status to more than 1 million people who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children.

Trump last year formally invalidated an Obama-era program that spared that large group of non-citizens from deportation, but court rulings have tied his hands and the temporary amnesty has continued.

Republicans fear being blamed for a future shutdown, and they are feeling pressure to finalize a budget agreement before Christmas.

The next Congress will likely convene at noon on January 3, at which point Democrats will have more negotiating power.

But the president has said he's more than willing to let funding for his cabinet agencies expire, calling it a political winner for the GOP.

'We need border security in this country, and if that means a shutdown I would totally be willing to shut it down,' he said Wednesday. 'And I think it's a really bad issue for the Democrats.'

He has also said he's open to the idea of abandoning efforts to get Congress to establish a dedicated funding stream for wall construction, and instead using the military to build it.

Internal discussions inside the White House have focused on tasking the Army Corps of Engineers, using an already burgeoning Pentagon budget.

Some legal opinions hold that the president would have to go through Congress to requthorize the funds. Others suggest the Defense Department could invoke national security exemptions and move ahead on its own.Sir Terry Morgan (file image) said the London Mayor knew by late July the 15billion railway would not open this month as planned

Sadiq Khan knew of delays to Crossrail weeks before it was announced and not just days as he had claimed, the project's boss said today.

Sir Terry Morgan said the London Mayor knew by late July the 15billion railway would not open this month as planned.

Mr Khan has previously said he only knew about the delay, fuelled by a failure to finish tunnel and station building work on time, two days before it was announced on August 31.

Sir Terry, who has admitted he is likely to be sacked as chairman of both the Crossrail and HS2 projects, also said delays to trains are behind the project's postponed opening.

City Hall sources told the Standard Mr Khan had 'lost confidence' in Sir Terry, adding he had been told this by TfL commissioner Mike Brown and deputy mayor for transport Heidi Alexander in September.

TFL also rejected claims trains were to blame for delays to the project, pointing out they were already running on the east and west sections of the line waiting to be linked by new tunnels under central London.

Sir Terry told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'I'm in absolutely no doubt that the Mayor was told on July 26 that it was no longer feasible to deliver Crossrail in 2018.'

A TfL spokesman, said: 'Crossrail Ltd is responsible for the completion of the new railway, including integrating signalling and railway systems.

'The trains are already successfully serving parts of the Elizabeth line route in the east and the west.

Sadiq Khan (pictured last month) knew of delays to Crossrail weeks before it was announced and not just days as he had claimed, the project's boss said today

'Their procurement has had no bearing on the fact that the completion of the line, including tunnel fit out, the new stations and a range of safety critical railway systems was not completed in time by Crossrail Ltd for a December opening.

'Work on stations and other vital infrastructure is progressing, but remains at varying degrees of completion, as reported by Crossrail Ltd to the TfL Board last month.'

Crossrail will be named the Elizabeth Line when it finally opens for service, currently due next year.

The new Elizabeth line trains are already operating between Shenfield and Liverpool Street and between Paddington and Hayes & Harlington, in readiness for the full opening.

The trains are also being tested in the Heathrow tunnels.

Construction activity is drawing to a close including the completion of the remaining architectural fit-out in the new central section stations.

The new railway, jointly sponsored by the Department for Transport and Transport for London with support from Londons business community, will connect stations such as Paddington to Canary Wharf in only 17 minutes.A man has been cleared of masturbating in public by a New York court after they accepted his defense that he was merely well-endowed and adjusting himself.

Kosta Kolaci, 61, was arrested in April on suspicion of public lewdness and harassment after a fellow passenger on the subway shot a video appearing to show him touching himself on an early morning train.

But Kolaci was cleared on Friday after a brief trial at Brooklyn Criminal Court, in which he argued that he had no recollection of the supposed April 9 incident, when he was returning from a construction job.

Kosta Kolaci, 61, was arrested in April on suspicion of public lewdness and harassment after a fellow passenger on the subway shot a video appearing to show him touching himself

In the video, filmed between 59th St. station in Sunset Park and Coney Island, Alethia Richardson, 32, films the man sat opposite her 'pleasuring himself' and then says into the camera: 'Disrespect. Nasty. Pervert.'

Twice in the video Kolaci appears to be touching his genitals for around 10 seconds.

Richardson took the footage to the police, saying she was 'extremely upset' after seeing Kolaci 'grab and rub his crotch area'. He was later charged.

According to a police report, 'she observed that the man's penis was erect and appeared to be almost protruding from his pants.'

Defense attorney Cary London successfully protested his client's innocence, citing the fact that he never unzipped his pants or exposed himself.

He even went so far as to say the accuser was guilty of being 'enamored' by Kolaci's crotch.

'The fact that Mr. Kolaci may have a big penis that this woman was enamored with from sitting across from him does not make him guilty of a crime,' London said Friday in his closing argument, according to the New York Post.

'This is someone minding his own business who happens to have a penis.'

London claimed that the fact that Kolaci and Richardson were the only two passengers in the subway car, yet Richardson did not move seats, was evidence that she 'wanted to make a situation out of something that wasn't.'

One source familiar with the case said the Judge Elizabeth Warin based her ruling not on Kolaci's 'well-endowed' defense, but on the fact that she did not find his conduct lewd enough to convict him.

However, the exposure of private parts is not always necessary for prosecution under the public lewdness law.

However a judge found his conduct was not lewd enough to convict him, after his lawyer argued that he did not expose himself and was merely adjusting his 'well-endowed' private parts

The Brooklyn District Attorney's office used about three minutes of the video in court, in which Kolaci is seen 'manspreading' across a two-person bench, occasionally looking over at Richardson.

Kolaci was arrested in April at a Brooklyn subway station after police noticed him tearing down wanted posters with his face on - a still taken from Richardson's video.

The New York Post reported that he told Police at the time: 'This is me and I've already taken care of this case.'

Kolaci is still in federal custody facing a deportation order to his native Albania that was triggered by his arrest.

According to the Post, he is at Hudson County Correctional Facility, but hopes the acquittal will mean he can stay in Brooklyn.Self proclaimed Florida 'prophet' Lauro Adame, 50, was arrested Thursday after he was accused of molesting a child (pictured in his mugshot)

A self-proclaimed Florida prophet who runs an online ministry has been accused of sexually abusing a young child over the course of several years.

Lauro Adame, 50, was arrested by Orange County Sheriff's deputies Thursday morning, according to Click Orlando.

Adame, who runs Prophet Adame Ministries, was first confronted by the mother of his alleged victim in September of 2017.

He allegedly told her: 'I'm going to turn myself in tomorrow morning with my lawyer. I'm a dirty man.'

However, that never happened.

Deputies tried to locate Adame at least three times but he would not return calls or answer the door during each attempt to reach him.

He was finally arrested on Thursday and charged with sexual battery on a child under 12, three counts of lewd and lascivious molestation and one count of sexual activity with a child.

Adame, pictured in court, is being held without bond on charges of abusing a minor under 12

Self proclaimed Florida 'prophet' Lauro Adame, 50, was arrested Thursday after he was accused of molesting a child

Adame's neighbor told Channel 9 he saw the marshals go into the Melbourne home.

'A bunch of U.S. marshals just pulled up in the road, pounded on his door and took him away. That was it. They were only here for, like, 10 minutes,' the neighbor said.

'I had these weird feelings about him. I kind of really didn't like him because he was, like, hyper,' the neighbor added.

He's being held at the Orange County Jail with no bond.

Adame, who has authored several books on spirituality claims to have ministered in South America, Asia, Africa and the Caribbean Islands, according to the church's website.

He claims he 'received his calling' at the age of seven after he says he had 'a divine encounter... with the Lord.'

Adame has also published a number of religious books and preaches in YouTube videos.Advertisement

Ukraine has started calling up its military reserves for training amid fears Russia is poised for an invasion.

President Petro Poroshenko is fearful that Putin could try to seize the ports of Mariupol and Berdyansk, located around the Sea of Azov.

The aim would be to create a land corridor between the eastern Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, which are partly controlled by Russian-backed separatists, and Crimea, which has been annexed by Moscow.

But Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the rumours as 'absurd' and described them as 'another attempt to generate tension'.

Ukrainian servicemen take part in a military exercise on the firing range near of Gncharivske village, about 120 km from capital Kiev

Russia has sharply increased the number of its troops along the border with Ukraine and in Russian-occupied Crimea. Pictured: Ukrainian soldiers conduct drills

Preparing for war: Ukrainian servicemen take part in a military exercise on the firing range around 75 miles from Kiev

Military exercises are held in the areas where martial law is in effect. First-line reservists were also called into training

For the duration of martial law, Ukrainian authorities barred entry to all Russian men aged 16 to 60 in a move the Ukrainian leader said was needed to prevent Russia from further destabilizing the country

Ukraine has begun calling up its army reserves for training as part of 30 days of martial law amid fears Russia could invade

Soldiers took part in military drills intended as a show of force to Russia around 75 miles north of Kiev on Monday

Ukrainian strategists are worried that Russia will attack the ports of Mariupol and Berdyansk, along the Sea of Azov, in an attempt to make a land corridor between eastern Ukraine and Crimea

Tanks take part in live-fire drills in Ukraine on Monday. Russia has denied any rumours of an invasion, saying they are 'absurd' and are designed to stoke up tensions

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko spoke to soldiers north of Kiev after declaring martial law across much of the country

Ukrainian officials raid Russian churches Ukrainian authorities on Monday raided three Orthodox churches aligned to Russia as political and religious tensions between the two countries grow. Police and security services also searched the homes of priests who have declared their allegiance to the Russian branch of the Orthodox church. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church was recently granted independence from Moscow in a controversial ruling that prompted cheers from Kiev but anger in Moscow. The raids on the churches in northern Ukraine were part of a probe into the possible violation of a law on equality of religious belief. No-one was arrested. Advertisement

It comes after the Russian coast guard fired upon and seized three Ukrainian naval vessels and their crews off the Crimean Peninsula in the Kerch Strait.

The speaker of Russia's lower house of parliament announced on Monday that he plans to give medals to the sailors who fired upon then seized the Ukrainian boats.

Vyacheslav Volodin said they acted 'faultlessly and courageously' to thwart a violation of its maritime border.

Poroshenko has also responded to the fracas by introducing martial law for 30 days in much of Ukraine, but is now considering further action.

For the duration of martial law, Ukrainian authorities barred entry to all Russian men aged 16 to 60 in a move the Ukrainian leader said was needed to prevent Russia from further destabilizing the country.

Poroshenko said Monday that some reservists will be summoned for training as part of martial law.

He also said that some military units will be redeployed to strengthen the nation's defenses.

'Ukraine is taking its own steps in response to the threat of a large-scale Russian invasion,' the Ukrainian leader said.

Over the weekend, Poroshenko said that Russia has deployed a large number of troops and tanks along its border and intends to push inland.

A helicopter lands at a compound of the Ukrainian Ground Forces training center to the north of Kiev on Monday

Ukraine has been on edge since Russia fired upon and then seized three of its military vessels in the Sea of Azov

Russia and Ukraine have been waging a conflict-by-proxy in the Donbass and Luhansk regions since Putin ally Viktor Yanukovych was kicked out of power in 2014

Ukrainian soldiers move to position in a APC during military drills in base Honcharivske, Chernihiv region

A Ukrainian guard stands close to the border with Russia after it was closed to all Russian males aged 16 to 60

Ukraine also accused Russia of blockading its ports on the Sea of Azov.

Peskov rejected Kiev's claim that Russia was blocking traffic to and from Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov, saying that navigation has continued normally except for occasional breaks because of bad weather.

The separatist conflict in eastern regions forming Ukraine's industrial heartland has taken a toll on the national economy, reducing the cargo flow through the Ukrainian ports of Mariupol and Berdyansk on the Sea of Azov.

The naval incident further stoked tensions. Vitaliy Sinhur, a dock worker in Berdyansk, said the movement of ships has significantly ebbed.

Over the weekend, Poroshenko urged Germany and other Western allies to boost their naval presence in the Black Sea to help deter Russia from further aggression.

Ukraine's deputy defense minister, Anatoliy Petrenko, said the country is talking to its Western partners to respond to Russia's 'escalatory actions.'

Amid the tensions, the Russian military said its forces in Crimea were conducting drills involving Bal and Bastion long-range anti-ship missile systems.

In the Nov. 25 incident, three Ukrainian naval vessels were heading from the Black Sea into the Sea of Azov when they were blocked by the Russian coast guard near the Kerch Strait between Russia's mainland and Crimea.

A Ukrainian solider is pictured during military drills north of Kiev amid fears that Russia could attack soon

Armoured personnel carriers work their way across snowy terrain between artillery pieces during drills in Ukraine

Ukrainian servicemen take part in brigade tactical exercises with combat shooting near Goncharivske village

Tensions have flared since Russia rammed, shot at and seized three Ukrainian ships near the Kerch Strait (pictured), which it temporarily closed

Two Ukrainian ships seized by Russia are seen in the port of Mariupol. Russia also captured 24 Ukrainian sailors

After many tense hours of maneuvering, the Russians opened fire and seized the Ukrainian vessels and 24 crew members.

The Ukrainian seamen have been put in custody for two months pending Russia's investigation into the clash.

Ukraine and Russia have traded blame for the naval incident that further escalated the tug-of-war that began in 2014 when Russian annexed Crimea and backed separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine.

Ukraine says that its ships were operating in line with a 2003 treaty with Russia envisaging free navigation for vessels of both countries in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait.

Russia is adamant that the Ukrainian ships had entered its waters without permission.

Later this week, the Ukrainian parliament is expected to mull a presidential decree blocking the extension of a friendship treaty, a long-anticipated symbolic move.

Poroshenko has said he tried to arrange a phone call with Putin to discuss the standoff but faced the Kremlin's refusal.

Peskov said Monday that 'no such conversation is planned.'Le Collectif Cheikh Yassine a organise un certain nombre dactivites et de festivites pour les enfants de Gaza sous le theme  La joie des enfants de Gaza pour lAid . Ces activites ont commence le premier jour de lAid et continue jusquau 4eme jour de lAid dans la bande de Gaza.



Plusieurs activites, ont ete organisees parmi lesquelles : des competitions recompensees par des prix, des jeux, des animations et des chants presentes par un groupe ainsi que des distributions de cadeaux et daides financieres.



Donald Trump's lawyers are headed to court to demand porn star Stormy Daniels to pay them hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal bills after her failed defamation lawsuit against the president.

The attorneys will appear in a Los Angeles federal courtroom on Monday to demand $340,000 in legal bills they say accrued fighting Daniels' lawyer Michael Avenatti's gamesmanship and aggressive tactics.

Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, alleges she had a one-night affair with Trump in 2006, which the president has vehemently denied.

Donald Trump's lawyers will appear in Los Angeles federal court today to demand Stormy Daniels pay them $340,000 in legal feels they accumulated responding to her lawyer's tactics

The legal dispute began when she sued Trump earlier this year seeking to break a non-disclosure agreement she signed days before the 2016 election about the tryst as part $130,000 hush money settlement. The very public case has led to the scrutiny of Trump's former personal attorney Michael Cohen and Trump's presidential election campaign.

Daniels claimed that she spoke out publicly on the affair and was then threatened to keep quiet by a man she didn't recognize in a Las Vegas parking lot about five years after the affair.

She sued Trump for defamation after he responded to the allegation by tweeting: 'A sketch years later about a nonexistent man. A total con job, playing the Fake News Media for Fools (but they know it)!'

Avenatti dismissed the fees as 'staggering and grossly inflated' and that they should not exceed $25,000

Trump's lead attorney says that Avanetti and Daniels have engaged in massive national publicity in defamation case. Daniels even named her strip tour Make America Horny Again, a play on Trump's political slogan, pictured above on tour in Pompano Beach, Florida

In October U.S. District Court Judge S. James Otero ruled Trump's statement was 'rhetorical hyperbole' against a political adversary and was protected speech under the First Amendment.

He also said that Trump is entitled to legal fees.

Now Trump's lawyers are trying to cash in saying they've accounted for more than 500 hours of work at rates as high as $840 an hour.

Avenatti dismissed the fees as 'staggering and grossly inflated' and that they should not exceed $25,000.

But Trump's lead attorney insists that the fees and unspecified monetary sanctions were earned because of the extraordinary nature of the case.

'This action is virtually unprecedented in American legal history,' attorney Charles Harder wrote.

Daniels 'not only brought a meritless claim for defamation against the sitting president of the United States, but she also has engaged, along with her attorney, in massive national publicity.'

He said she appeared on national TV, penned a book entitled Full Disclosure and went on a live strip club tour dubbed 'Make America Horny Again' - a riff on Trump's 'Make America Great Again' slogan.An unidentified man ran up to a group of Hasidic Jews and punched one of them in the head in New York on Friday evening.

Video footage captured a man running up and punching a 33-year-old Jewish man in the back of the head in Williamsburg. The shocking incident occurred just two days before the beginning of the Jewish Holiday Hanukkah.

The victim was wearing a shtreimel, a fur hat worn by some Hasidic Jewish men. Police said they are now investigating the attack as a hate crime.

An unidentified man ran up to a group of Hasidic Jews and punched one of them in the head

The victim, a 32-year-old man, was standing on Throop Avenue at Wallabout Street at 6.40 pm Friday when he was attacked, police said.

The suspect was seen turning back the way he came and fleeing after striking the man.

Two other men are seen on the video chasing the man, but no arrests have been reported.

Community leader Jude Werzberger told CBS2: 'We start running after him, but, unfortunately, we grabbed him  we got him.  We caught him, but unfortunately no cop was there to get him.

'I felt just like everybody else over here, that you have to be afraid on the streets and nobody cares.'.

'You feel like youre in a wilted country where people dont like us'.

The man can be seen slowly walking towards the group of men and then hits one of them

The man screams (left) as he runs towards the jewish men and hits one of them in the head. He then (right) runs away

The NYPD said anti-Semitic crimes are the most common hate crimes, with 168 documented in 2018 so far. The figure was up from almost 25 percent from this time last year.

The Anti-Defamation League is offering up to a $5,000 reward for any information that leads to an arrest in any of these cases.

Evan R Bernstein of ADL told ABC7: 'We know that hate is affecting many communities, and we must stand strong and send a unified message to combat it at all levels'.

Last week the office of a Jewish psychology and education professor at Teachers College, Columbia University has been vandalized with swastikas and an anti-Semitic slur.

Professor Elizabeth Midlarksy discovered the disturbing Nazi symbol and slur 'YID' spray-painted in red on her New York City office walls Wednesday afternoon.

She alerted campus security and the incident is now under investigation by the NYPD. There is no known suspect.A blood-soaked man was arrested after carrying out a terrifying knife attack on an LDS church in Brazil that left four injured on Sunday.

Uilker Alves barged in on Sunday's service at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Aparecida de Goiania and attacked congregants with two butcher knives.

Alves yelled 'everyone will die' as he attacked innocent families with two butcher's knives, according to Globo. Four men were left injured.

Uilker Alves attacked four men with two butcher knives during Sunday's service at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Aparecida de Goiania, Brazil

The 28-year-old (center) was held by churchgoers after he barged inside the church and said 'everyone will die' before attacking

The Mormon church attacker wrote on his Facebook account that he would carry out his attack this weekend

Alves carried out his attack just two days after he boasted about it on his Facebook page in a message that has since been deleted.

He was upset that representatives from the church never followed through the promise of visiting him in 2013 after they approached him in the street.

'I gave my address to the Mormon church. They did not come. I'm going to take the massacre [to] them. I will not tell the day ...' Alves wrote.

'I'm not thirsty, I'm thirsty, I'll wait, everyone will come in. Close the door and start cutting off the heads.'

'This weekend I'm going to attack the Mormon church and cut off the heads,' he added.

According to Globo, police said one of the injured worshipers was stabbed when he singly tried to stop Alves.

The bloodied 28-year-old was eventually subdued by congregants at the church and arrested and charged with attempted murder.

During his video taped interrogation at a police station, Alves came across as a confused individual, according to investigator Divino Batista dos Santos.

Alves told the dos Santos that he heard that the church has made pacts with the devil while adding that no one from the church visited at his home in Goianesia, which he shared with his mother.

A Brazilian man sought revenge after representatives from a Mormon church didn't visit him to proceed with a baptism at his home in 2013

A bloodied Uilker Alves is led into an ambulance after police arrested the suspect

On Friday, the Mormon church attacker posted a message on his Facebook page stating that he was 'going to take the massacre [to] them. I will not tell the day'

Alves, who was sitting down with his hands handcuffed behind his backs, is seen looking down in the video.

'I watched a video that [denies] the birth of Jesus Christ, and says that in the first battle against Lucifer, it says that Jesus Christ put the curse on the body of dark [skinned people] and, after he died on the cross, he threw the curse of baldness upon the people.'

Dos Santos told Globo that the suspect purchased the two knives on Saturday and traveled Anapolis, where he spent the night. On Sunday he made the trip to Aparecida de Goiania before the wild scene unraveled at about 10:30AM local time.

A Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Aparecida de Goiania, Brazil was the site of a gruesome attack in which four congregants were stabbed

The bloodied 28-year-old (right) was eventually subdued by congregants at the church and arrested and charged with attempted murder

The church was packed with 120 worshipers as the service was underway.

Wilson Alves Batista, 40, underwent surgery on Sunday to treat an injury he suffered in his right arm and remains hospitalized.

Two other victims were treated and released from a hospital hours after the horrific attack and another man was sent home from the hospital Monday morning.A woman has suffered 40 per cent burns after being set on fire by two men she accused of molesting her in India.

The 20-year-old was in a field in near her home in the Sitapur district of Uttar Pradesh state when the men, both neighbours and known to her family, accosted her and tried to drag her away, her brother Vinod Kumar said.

She bit their hands and managed to break free and escape, and her father filed a complaint with police same day, he said. When no action resulted, the family lodged a second complaint.

The next day, the two men returned to the field where she was working, doused her with kerosene and set her on fire, Regional police superintendent Prabhakar Chaudhary said.

A woman has suffered 40 per cent burns after being set on fire by two men she accused of molesting her in India. Women in India have struggled to secure prosecution for sexual attacks in the face of widespread police indifference, rights activists say. Pictured: Campaigners in New Delhi

She suffered burns to 40 per cent of her body and was hospitalised.

Chaudhary said her suspected attackers were arrested and three policemen suspended for dereliction of duties.

Women in India have struggled to secure prosecution for sexual attacks in the face of widespread police indifference, rights activists say.

After a gruesome gang rape of a young woman in 2012, India launched fast-track courts and a tougher rape law that included the death penalty.

But crime statistics indicate sexual assault on women have risen, not fallen, since then.

Even if cases are registered, crime statistics show that police files remain open for about a third of all rapes that were investigated for each year between 2012 and 2016.

Rights groups have accused Indian police of bowing to pressure from local politicians to bury investigations. In some cases investigations of sexual assault have evaporated out of sheer police apathy, activists say.



Arnold Schwarzenegger says he wishes he could travel back in time like the cyborg he played in 'The Terminator' so he could stop fossil fuels from being used.

'If we would've never started in that direction and used other technology, we'd be much better off,' the actor and former California governor said Monday at the start of a U.N. climate conference in Poland.

'The biggest evil is fossil fuels: it's coal, it's gasoline, it's the natural gas,' he told conference delegates.

Schwarzenegger also insisted that the United States was 'still in' an international accord to curb global warming despite U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to walk away from the agreement.

He's 'meshugge': Arnold Schwarzenegger attacked Trump over climate change at a U.N. conference in Katowice, Poland, calling him 'crazy' in Yiddish

I'd like to go back: Arnie said he wishes he could do in real life what The Terminator did and travel back in time to prevent all fossil fuel use calling it 'the biggest evil'

Calling Trump 'meshugge' - Yiddish for 'crazy' - for abandoning the accord, Schwarzenegger said the 2015 agreement has widespread support at the local and state levels even if the federal government isn't on board.

American states, cities, businesses and citizens can do a lot to curb global warming, and representatives from those arenas should be invited to next year's climate conference, he told the audience in Poland.

'And if you do that, I promise you: I'll be back,' he said in another reference to 'The Terminator.'

Schwarzenegger later told The Associated Press he has converted his signature Humvee trucks to run on hydrogen, electricity and biofuel and only allows himself to eat meat three days a week.

'I mean, maybe it tastes delicious, but I think we should think then and there before we eat about the world and about the pollution,' he said. 'So I discontinued eating meat four days a week. And eventually, maybe we'll go to seven days'An Egyptian actress facing five years behind bars for wearing a dress that showed off her legs has apologised for causing offence.

Rania Youssef, who is in her 30s, said she 'didn't expect it to raise all this anger' in a Facebook post which appeared on Saturday.

After wearing the dress on the red carpet at a film festival in Cairo last week, Youssef appeared to blame designers who were 'influenced' by fashion at international film festivals.

Egyptian actress Rania Youssef apologised via Facebook for causing offence after a lace dress she wore at a film festival in Cairo landed her in court

Youssef said she did not foresee causing offence when she put the dress on and appeared to blame designers who were 'influenced' by international tastes

Youssef is facing up to five years in jail if she is convicted on a charge of public obscenity when she comes before a court on January 12

'I want to repeat my commitment to the values and ethics we have been raised by in Egyptian society,' said Youssef, without making an outright apology.

Images of Youssef at the event were widely shared on social media, prompting a group of lawyers to file a complaint to the chief prosecutor, who quickly referred the case to trial.

Youssef is due in court on January 12 charged with public obscenity.

The news comes after an Egyptian novelist was convicted on charge of obscenity in 2016 for referencing sex and drugs in his book.

He was sentenced to two years in prison, sparking outrage amongst human rights activists.

He was soon released after 120 prominent writers and artists, including Woody Allen, signed a letter to the authorities.

His sentence was suspended following an appeal to a Cairo court.

Egypt is technically a secular country, but President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi - who seized power in a military coup in 2013 before being elected in 2014 - has vowed: 'I will be responsible for (the nation's) values, ethics, principles and religion.'

Youssef (pictured left) receives the best actress award from Egyptian Minister of Culture Mohamed Saber Arab for her role in the film 'One who's True'

Youssef, who is in her 30's, is set to stand trial on January 12 following a complaint by a group of lawyers to the chief prosecutor

The actress could five up to five years in prison if she is convicted of public obscenityA breathtaking milky way has been captured travelling above an ancient baobab tree in Botswana's savannah.

The mesmerising scenes in the country's Makgadikgadi Pans were filmed by British Wildlife photographer Will Burrard-Lucas during a carefully orchestrated time-lapse.

The spellbinding time-lapse footage, shot over a period of almost eight hours at 'The Island of Lost Baobabs', shows the stars rotating across the night sky.

The mesmerising time-lapse of the milky way above a baobab tree in Botswana's Makgadikgadi Pans were captured by British Wildlife photographer Will Burrard-Lucas

The stunning time lapse was shot over a period of almost eight hours at 'The Island of Lost Baobabs'

In order to capture the fascinating shot Mr Burrard-Lucas had to strategically place his camera in the perfect spot beneath the tree.

He told Storyful: 'I was pointing (camera) due south and lined the baobab up with the celestial south pole so that it would look like the stars were rotating around the ancient tree due to the rotation of the Earth.

'The night sky in Africa is absolutely stunning and looking up at the stars on a night like this never ceases to fill me with awe and wonder.'

Wildlife photographer Will Burrard-Lucas had to carefully place his camera in the perfect angle in order to capture the breathtaking scenes

He said: 'The night sky in Africa is absolutely stunning and looking up at the stars on a night like this never ceases to fill me with awe and wonder'

The talented photographer, who spent part of his childhood in Tanzania with his family, has taken a particular interest in African wildlife in recent years.

After viewing the stunning footage on YouTube one user wrote: 'That video is a fantastic display of what a wonderful world we live in.'

Baobab trees are usually found in the arid regions of Madagascar, Africa, Australia and Arabia and can reach soaring heights or 98ft.Advertisement

The remains of the late U.S. President George H.W. Bush reached an airbase near Washington, D.C. on Monday, finishing one leg of a round-trip journey from Texas back to the capital where he served four years in Congress, one at the helm of the CIA, eight as vice president and four in the White House.

'Special Air Mission 41'  the aircraft known as Air Force One when living presidents are aboard  touched down just before 3:30 p.m. at Joint Base Andrews, where a Cadillac hearse flying the U.S. flag and bearing the Seal of the President of the United States waited on an expansive tarmac.

Along with a military band and honor guards arrayed like parade-ground marchers without a commander to review them, a contingent of 114 crew members of the USS George H.W. Bush stood at attention while the jumbo jetliner touched down and taxied.

Aboard the plane with the former president's remains were his sons George W. and Neil and their families. George W. Bush was America's 43rd president. Former first lady Laura Bush also made the trip from Houston.

So, too, did Sully, the late president's service dog.

Jeb Bush, the former Florida governor who ran unsuccessfully for president in 2016, joined the extended family along with his wife Columba, on the tarmac.

'Special Air Mission 41,' the flight carrying the remains of the late former U.S. President George W. Bush, touched down Monday afternoon at Joint Base Andrews near Washington, D.C.

Former President George W. Bush (center) and former first lady Laura Bush (right) joined brother Neil Bush and his family deplaning from the jet that serves as Air Force One

A contingent of 114 crew members of the USS George H.W. Bush, a modern aircraft carrier, stood at attention while the jumbo jetliner touched down and taxied on Monday

The late president's casket had a military escort on both ends of Monday's flight, with a group of eight pallbearers from a combination of the U.S. military services

Bush, the 41st U.S. president, died Friday and will be laid to rest this week following four days of ceremonies and memorials

Former President George W. Bush (left) emerged from the same plane that ferried him around the world from 2001 to 2009, with his first lady at his side

Jeb Bush (right of center, front row) joined the rest of the family at Joint Base Andrews from Florida; his wife Columba is to his left

Family and former staffers attended a brief departure ceremony Monday at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base, a Texas Air National Guard base, watching as a contingent of eight soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines took Bush's flag-draped casket to the Boeing 747 for a last trip to Washington.

At Ellington and at Joint Base Andrews in D.C.'s Maryland suburbs, 21-gun salutes boomed and military bands played 'Hail to the Chief.'

At JBA, they also played 'America' as a color guard hoisting a yellow-fringed U.S. flag advanced in front of the pallbearers in a somber scene Americans see only a few times each generation.

Bush's casket on Monday occupied part of one cabin onboard whose seats were removed from the plane by a JBA crew after President Donald Trump's return Sunday from the G20 summit in Argentina.

Specialized scissor-lift trucks at both airfields delivered and retrieved the casket with only stiff-blowing breezes as soundtracks.

'Bush 43' and Laura, the former first lady, climbed the plane's stairs in Houston and gave a somber wave, followed by the rest of of the extended family.

A few minutes later 'Poppy,' as the grandchildren of the man who was once the U.S. military's youngest fighter pilot called him, was airborne.

In Washington, the centerpiece of the week's remembrances will be a memorial service at the National Cathedral. President Donald Trump will attend but will not speak.

The Bushes have little affection for Trump, who belittled Jeb Bush relentlessly during the 2016 campaign.

Sitting presidents have delivered eulogies at the last three presidential funerals. George W. Bush eulogized Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan. Bill Clinton spoke at Richard Nixon's funeral.

Sully, the yellow Labrador retriever service dog of former President George H.W. Bush, walked thorugh Joint Base Andrews after the arrival of 'Special Air Mission 41'

The level of ceremonial gravity on Monday is something Americans see only once or twice per generation

The remains of President George H.W. Bush traveled from Texas to Washington, D.C. on Monday aboard Special Air Mission 41, the temporary callsign of the plane that serves as Air Force One whenever the current president is on board

A group of eight pallbearers representing branches of the U.S. armed forces took Bush's remains from a hearse in Houston and carried it to the Air Force One jet at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base

Former President George W. Bush and former first lady Laura Bush waved as they boarded the plane that once served as his Air Force One transport; on Monday they were aboard to accompany the remains of George's father back to Washington

Bush's casket wasn't loaded directly onto the plane; military pallbearers placed it on a truck that is normally used to carry food and water to the four-engine jumbo jet; the truck's cargo space is mounted on a scissor-lift that can reach an aft door

The Texas-based Bush clan including George Wl, Laura and Neil stood with hands on hearts during Monday morning's departure ceremony

Secret Service agents had carried the president's body out of the George H. Lewis Funeral Home in Houston, placing it in a hearse for a motorcade-drive to Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base, where the world's most famous aircraft awaited.

As the procession took up the southbound lanes of Interstate 45, motorists driving along the northbound lanes pulled over in a miles-long show of respect.

The departure ceremony featured a 21-gun salute and a U.S. Army Band contingent from Fort Sill, Oklahoma playing 'Hail to the Chief,' plus the four 'Ruffles and Flourishes' trumpet fanfares that precede it.

The late 41st president's son Neil also accompanied his body on the unique Boeing 747, renamed 'Special Air Mission 41' for the flight, as it travels to Joint Base Andrews in the Maryland suburbs of Washington.

Sully will be reassigned to a wounded warrior at Walter Reed Naval Medical Center near Washington. The dog was photographed lying in front of Bush's casket at the funeral home on Monday.

The pair of planes that serve as President Trump's 'Air Force One' jets were first placed into service during George H.W. Bush's time in office. They are scheduled to be retired in 2021.

The Lincoln catafalque, a wooden platform that once supported the coffin of America's 16th president, was placed in the center of the Capitol Rotunda on Monday in preparations for the arrival of Bush's casket

invited guests watched soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines carrying the flag-draped coffin on Monday morning

Pallbearers, all members of the U.S. Secret Service, brought Bush's casket out of a Houston funeral home Monday morning and loaded it into a hearse for a motorcade-drive to Ellington Field, where the presidential Boeing 747 awaited

Joint service members rehearsed on Sunday for the arrival of Bush's remains at the U.S. Capitol, where he will lie in state in the Rotunda

Bush will lie in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda from Monday through Wednesday, when a state funeral is scheduled at the National Cathedral.

A contingent of former Bush staff members now living in Texas will join the mourners leaving Houston on Monday morning.

After a public viewing at an Episcopal church in Houston, Bush's casket will be placed on a Union Pacific train car and pulled 70 miles to the town of College Station, home of Texas A&M University, where his presidential library is located.

Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses Grant, Franklin Roosevelt and Dwight Eisenhower were honored in the same way, traveling to their final resting places on trains that Americans lined up to see as they passed.

Members of the military played 'Hail to the Chief' and accompanied a 21-gun salute with a long drum roll at Ellington Field

The 41st President will be carried to his final rest wearing socks (left) that pay tribute to his lifetime of service, starting as an 18-year-old naval aviator; at right, Brian Blake, former communications director at the George H.W. Bush Library and Museum, paused Saturday in front of a statue of the former president

The locomotive chosen for his final journey was customized in Bush's honor in 2005 and painted with the number '4141' in his honor. He marveled at its unveiling that year and asked to take it for a ride.

On Thursday his casket will be in a train car with Plexiglas windows to allow people to see it during the trip.

The 41st president died at his Houston home on Friday night, seven months after his wife Barbara passed away.

After services in Washington, attended by President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump, there will be another funeral in Houston on Thursday followed by burial at the Bush Presidential Library in College Station, Texas.

Bush will be laid to rest alongside his wife of 73 years and Robin Bush, their daughter who died of leukemia in 1953 at age 3.

Trump tweeted late Monday morning: 'Looking forward to being with the Bush Family to pay my respects to President George H.W. Bush.'

Neil Bush, right, and his family, walked out after the family service at the Lewis Funeral Home; Sully, the late president's service dog, exited with them

Bush served two terms as vice president under fellow Republican President Ronald Reagan before winning his own White House term from 1989 to 1993.

His time in office saw the end of the Cold War. Bush also presided over the United States' routing of Iraqi President Saddam Hussein's army in the 1991 Gulf War.

He failed to win a second term after breaking a 'no new taxes' pledge.

Remembrances to George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush sprang up over the weekend in the neighborhood where he made his home, at a memorial in a city park, and at the Houston airport named in his honor.

Retired Gen. Colin Powell, who as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff was Bush's top military adviser, said Bush was the 'perfect American' for serving his country in so many different capacities and should be remembered for 'a life of quality, a life of honor, a life of honesty, a life of total concern for the American people.'

'He was a patriot. He demonstrated that in war, he demonstrated that in peace. He was able to demonstrate that in his four years of service,' Powell said Sunday on ABC's 'This Week.'

After a public viewing at an Episcopal church in Houston, Bush's casket will be placed on a Union Pacific train car and pulled by this customized locomotive to his final resting place

The 70-mile journey to College Station, Texas will take about 2-1/2 hours on Thursday; College Station is home to Texas A&M University, where Bush's presidential library and his family burial plot are located

As Monday's motorcade procession took up the southbound lanes of Interstate 45, drivers on the northbound lanes pulled over in a miles-long show of respect

Sully, the late President Bush's service dog, lay in front of his casket at the funeral home in Houston on Monday

Trump has ordered the federal government closed Wednesday for a national day of mourning. Flags on public buildings are flying at half-staff for 30 days as a show of respect.

Bush's passing puts him back in the Washington spotlight after more than two decades living the relatively low-key life of a former president. His death also reduces membership in the exclusive ex-presidents' club to four: Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama.

One of Bush's major achievements was assembling the international military coalition that liberated the tiny, oil-rich nation of Kuwait from invading neighbor Iraq in 1991. The war lasted just 100 hours. He also presided over the end of the Cold War between the United States and the former Soviet Union.

A humble hero of World War II, Bush was just 20 when he survived being shot down during a bombing run over Japan. He joined the Navy when he turned 18.

Shortly before leaving the service, he married his 19-year-old sweetheart, Barbara Pierce, and forged a 73-year union that was the longest presidential marriage in U.S. history until her death. Bush enrolled at Yale University after military service, becoming a scholar-athlete and captaining the baseball team to two College World Series before graduating Phi Beta Kappa after just 2 years.

Officials gathered Monday morning outside the George H. Lewis Funeral Home as they prepared for the departure ceremony

The U.S. flag above the White House flew at half-staff in Bush's honor on Monday, along with flags at all other federal buildings

After moving to Texas to work in the oil business, Bush turned his attention to politics in the 1960s. He was elected to the first of two terms in Congress in 1967. He would go on to serve as ambassador to the United Nations and China, head of the CIA and chairman of the Republican National Committee before being elected to two terms as Ronald Reagan's vice president.

Soon after he reached the height of his political popularity following the liberation of Kuwait, with public approval ratings that are the envy of today's politicians, the U.S. economy began to sour and voters began to believe that Bush, never a great communicator - something even he acknowledged - was out of touch with ordinary people.

He was denied a second term by then-Arkansas Gov. Bill Clinton, who would later become a close friend. The pair worked together to raise tens of millions of dollars for victims of a 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and Hurricane Katrina, which swamped New Orleans and the Gulf Coast in 2005.

'Who would have thought that I would be working with Bill Clinton of all people?' he joked in 2005.

In a recent essay, Clinton declared of Bush: 'I just loved him.'Michelle Obama enjoyed an emotional return to a north London secondary school she credits with inspiring her to get involved in educational reform.

The former First Lady said she was 'moved, touched and inspired' by her meetings with hundreds of youngsters at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in Islington today.

Mrs Obama, 54, was visiting the school, which has many students from deprived homes, as part of a publicity tour for her bestselling memoir titled Becoming.

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Michelle Obama spoke of her pride as she met schoolgirls in north London at the same secondary school she first visited in 2009

The former First Lady said she was 'moved, touched and inspired' by her meetings with hundreds of youngsters at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in Islington

Mrs Obama was visiting the school as part of a publicity tour for her bestselling memoir titled Becoming

The former First Lady encouraged the pupils to practise supporting each other in her speech

In the book, she detailed the profound impact her visit to the comprehensive secondary school had on her nine years ago, at a time when it had 900 refugee pupils, with 55 languages spoken between them.

Speaking today, she said: 'Meeting the girls here and the girls at Mulberry reminded me how much courage and talent and hope there is.'

She added: 'On a personal level I was moved and touched and inspired as I always am by the young people I meet around the world.

'It gives me a level of focus and determination when I get to see you all up close.

Michelle Obama spoke at the event alongside executive headteacher Jo Dibb (left) and Nusrath Hassan (right)

She greeted students at the all-girls secondary school as she made her way to and from the stage

Her memoir Becoming is now the best selling book in the US of 2018 according to figures released by Penguin Random House

Speaking today, she said: 'Meeting the girls here and the girls at Mulberry reminded me how much courage and talent and hope there is'

'And as I said then, you remind me of me and all the fears and all the challenges that you face.

'You give me a sense of comfort as being First Lady wasn't the easiest job in the world but I got strength from you so thank you all for that, thanks for giving me that.'

Mrs Obama also encouraged the pupils to practise supporting each other.

She told them: 'We as women don't have the luxury of tearing each other down, there are enough barriers out there.

Mrs Obama mingles with young girls from the school, which has students from many different backgrounds and nationalities

Becoming sold more than two million copies in North America within the first 15 days of release

Mrs Obama said Sunday she was canceling book tour visits to Paris and Berlin to attend the funeral of former president George H.W. Bush, who died Friday aged 94

Michelle Obama speaks to Ms Dibb (left) and Ms Hassan (right) during the Penguin Talks event

'There are enough people out there ready to tear us down, our job is to lift each other up so we have to start practising now.

'There is no room for mean girls and cliques and social complications that naturally come at your age. I want you to be mindful of that.'

She added: 'That is one thing we can do better as women, we can take better care of each other.'

The relationship between Obama and the school was further heightened when a return visit in 2011 saw her invite pupils to hear her speak at Oxford University.

The former First Lady, flanked by security guards, is presented a bouquet of flowers from one pupil

Mrs Obama was joined by former pupils Winnie Mac and Letrishka Anthony from Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School and Nusrath Hassan, a former pupil of Mulberry School

Mrs Obama spoke at length about her relationship with her husband and former President Barack Obama

In her memoir, she detailed the profound impact her visit to the comprehensive secondary school had on her nine years ago

The following year, Mrs Obama invited a dozen of the schoolgirls to visit her at the White House in Washington.

Students spoke of the huge confidence boost the encounter gave them as Mrs Obama encouraged the girls to follow their dreams and to 'stay hopeful and keep working, despite their lack of privilege'.

Today, Mrs Obama spoke about ways diversity in the top universities can be improved, saying: 'Part of what we have to do is expose them to the opportunities. All kids can only dream things that are known to them.

The former First Lady smiled and clapped her hands as she was welcomed onto a stage at the school

Motivational: Mrs Obama invited them to spend a day with her when she spoke at Oxford University in 2011

'If they don't see elite colleges, if they don't know they exist, they don't know what to dream of.'

Referring to the trip she took to Oxford University with 37 EGA pupils in 2011, she said: 'This is why our visit to Oxford was so important.

'Colleges and universities have to start doing the work reaching out to kids very young... we have to start working on that pipeline much earlier.

'We can't wait until we have two years out from college. We need to start talking to them early - that includes not just conversations but visits, what is it like in a dormitory, to sit in a lecture?'

A former London schoolgirl who first met Michelle Obama in 2009 has now revealed how meeting the then-First Lady had a profound impact on her life.

Letrishka Anthony was 16 when Mrs Obama first visited Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School and is one of the school's alumni to join her on a visit to the campus nine years later.

The First Lady, a graduate of Harvard Law School, pictured hugging students at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Language College in 2009 is hoping to inspire another group of students with a visit to the Mulberry School in east London

A dozen schoolgirls visited the White House in Washington after Mrs Obama invited them in 2012. One of them, Gamze Kaplin, pictured second row, far right, has described her time with the First Lady as a massive confidence booster

Mrs Obama answered questions from Ms Anthony, fellow former pupil Winnie Mac and Nusrath Hassan, a former pupil of Mulberry School, which was visited by Mrs Obama in 2015.

Ms Anthony, 25, is now a senior analyst at a business intelligence company and told the Press Association it was 'amazing' to meet the former First Lady again.

She said: 'It was a lot more of a personal interaction and honestly she is so believable because I feel like she really humbles herself, she really talks about things that we can relate to, she even spoke about doubt and how sometimes she also doubts herself and those are things that we can all relate to, no matter how accomplished we are.

'I was 16 at the time [of her first visit] and I think just as a role model to look up to as a strong, beautiful, empowered woman, her emphasis on education, feeding back through to the younger generation [is important].

'Without education she wouldn't be where she is, those are all values that I think as young females, regardless of how we look and no matter what race you are, those are values that we should keep close to us and really will get us through life.'President Donald Trump touted his close friendship with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Twitter on Monday, claiming the two men would work with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the arms race and that he and Xi would work together to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula.

Russian aggression in a topic heavily on the mind of world leaders at the recent G20 summit in the wake of Russia seizing three Ukrainian ships in the Black Sea last weekend.

Trump has been taking a hardline on Russia since he canceled his meeting with Putin at the G20 summit while he was on Air Force One in route to Argentina.

Trump said the two leaders would work together to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula

Trump has been talking tough on Russia since it seized three Ukrainian ships

President Trump touted his friendship with Chinese President Xi Jinping

President Xi had a two and half hour dinner with Trump at the G20 summit

Trump and Xi met at the G20 face-to-face for the first time since the trade war began; the two are seen here on Trump's visit to China last year

The president is usually a champion of military spending but tweeted his concern about U.S. spending.

'I am certain that, at some time in the future, President Xi and I, together with President Putin of Russia, will start talking about a meaningful halt to what has become a major and uncontrollable Arms Race. The U.S. spent 716 Billion Dollars this year. Crazy!,' he wrote.

Trump slammed the costs but he was the one who signed the $716 billion defense bill, named for the late Sen. John McCain.

The legislation gave the Pentagon a $16 billion increase in spending and the 2019 budget is one of the biggest for the military in modern history.

The money included funding for 77 new F-35 fighter jets at a cost of $7.6 billion, $21.9 billion for nuclear weapons programs, two extra littoral combat ships and a new aircraft carrier to the Navy's original request for a total of 13 new warships, and a crackdown on Chinese investment in U.S. technology.

Additionally, the president announced in October he was withdrawing the U.S. from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces, or INF Treaty - an agreement that eliminated an entire class of nuclear weapons from U.S. and Russian arsenals.

He claimed it was because Moscow had violated the treaty 'for many years.'

Trump did not meet with Putin during his two days in Buenos Aires.

The White House said the two exchanged words while at a dinner for G20 leaders but Trump had cancelled their sit down, citing Russias move against the Ukraine.

It was 'one of a number of informal conversations' he had at a dinner for the world leaders Friday night, the White House said.

Trump, Putin, and other G20 leaders - plus their spouses - attended a cultural event at the posh Teatro Colon opera house Friday evening with a dinner afterward.

At Friday night's G20 dinner, Melania Trump talks to Chinese President Xi Jinping, while Chinese first lady Peng Liyuan sits next to him and Vladimir Putin sits next to her; President Trump is beside his wife and speaking to German Chancellor Angela Merkel

Putin said he hopes to have a proper sit down with Trump soon

It was there the two spoke, although the White House did not provide details on what the two talked about or any other leaders Trump spoke to during the evening.

Putin, however, revealed Trump asked him what happened with the Ukrainian ships.

'I answered his questions about the incident in the Black Sea. He has his position. I have my own. We stayed in our own positions,' Putin told reporters at the G20.

He said he hoped to have a proper sit down with Trump soon.

'I hope that this meeting will be held eventually, when the U.S. side is ready for it,' Putin added.

President Trump is coming off a successful meeting with his Chinese counterpart at the G20 Summit in Buenos Aires, where they came to a cease fire in the trade war between the two nations.

'President Xi and I have a very strong and personal relationship. He and I are the only two people that can bring about massive and very positive change, on trade and far beyond, between our two great Nations. A solution for North Korea is a great thing for China and ALL!,' Trump tweeted Monday morning.

The American and Chinese delegation met at the G20 to work out a trade deal but North Korea was another topic on the menu

Trump said he expects to meet with North Korean Leader Kim Jong-Un early in the next year

In the agreement coming out of that two and half hour dinner, the two leaders said they would work together to see a nuclear free Korean Peninsula.

'It was also agreed that great progress has been made with respect to North Korea and that President Trump, together with President Xi, will strive, along with Chairman Kim Jong Un, to see a nuclear free Korean Peninsula. President Trump expressed his friendship and respect for Chairman Kim,' the White House said in a statement after the meeting.

Trump said he expects to have another meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un early next year.

I think we're going to do one fairly - into January, February, I think, he told reporters on Air Force One on Sunday when he was traveling back from Argentina.

He also said he expected to host Kim in the United States at some point.Megyn Kelly was spotted leaving her New York City home Monday morning as negotiations over her exit from her $69million contract with NBC drag on.

The former NBC host grabbed a coffee before getting into a chauffeur-driven car.

Kelly, who left the network in October, donned a grey beanie with a matching vest and top, blue jeans and black boots as she began her day.

Negotiations over Kelly's exit from NBC have still not been finalized after more than a month after the scandal over her blackface comments.

Megyn Kelly was spotted leaving her New York City home Monday morning as negotiations over her exit from her $69million contract with NBC drag on

The former NBC host grabbed a coffee before getting into a chauffeur-driven car

Kelly, who left the network in October, donned a grey beanie with a matching vest and top, blue jeans and black boots as she began her day

Kelly reportedly signed to a three-year deal with NBC in 2017, leaving the network to now figure out what kind of severance to offer the host who had a combined $69million contract.

It was reported two weeks ago that the host was close to securing a $30million dollar payout from NBC.

A source initially told PageSix that the former Today host would sign her exit deal during the last week of November at the earliest, but negotiations haven't been finalized.

Sources had earlier told DailyMail.com that she had been asking for an additional $10million on top of what was left on her contract.

The amount that Kelly will potentially receive from NBC angered several in the media industry who expressed their outrage at the time.

'When my friends get laid off, they get three weeks of severance and a few retweets begging editors to hire them,' Zach Schonfeld tweeted at the time.

'Anyway, congrats to Megyn Kelly for getting $69 million for thinking blackface is fine,' he added.

New York Times and Esquire contributor, Maris Kreizman, tweeted at the time: 'I'm feeling sad because I'll never be incompetent and unscrupulous enough to get an 8-figure severance package.'

The amount that Kelly will potentially receive from NBC angered several in the media industry who expressed their outrage at the time

But it was Columbia journalist Bill Grueskin who really put things in perspective.

He tweeted that Kelly's payout could also pay for the Texas Tribune's expenses for more than three years.

Grueskin said that the severance could also take care of Pro Publica's expenses for about 1.3 years.

And despite her vile blackface comments on her segment in October, Kelly will still get a significantly sized payout.

'But what is racist?', Kelly said at the time. 'Truly, you do get in trouble if you are a white person who puts on blackface at Halloween or a black person who puts on whiteface for Halloween.

'Back when I was a kid, that was OK, as long as you were dressing up as, like, a character,' Kelly said.

Kelly immediately faced backlash over her blackface remarks in October (above) and she was accused of ignoring the ugly history of minstrel shows and movies in which whites applied blackface to mock blacks as lazy, ignorant or cowardly

She immediately faced backlash over her remarks and she was accused of ignoring the ugly history of minstrel shows and movies in which whites applied blackface to mock blacks as lazy, ignorant or cowardly.

Kelly apologized to fellow NBC staffers later in the day and made a tearful apology on her show the following day.

The host made her debut as an NBC morning host in September 2017, taking over the 9am slot at Today and saying she wanted viewers 'to have a laugh with us, a smile, sometimes a tear and maybe a little hope to start your day'.

She did cooking demonstrations and explored emotional topics.

But her blackface comment was perhaps the most controversial statement she had made since joining NBC team, causing the cancellation of her show just 48 hours after the remarks were made.

Kelly has been spotted over the last month spending time with friends and family as she celebrated her 48th birthday.

It's unclear what the host's next move will be.A Russian man has been accused of stabbing his heavily pregnant wife to death after he was asked to stop smoking because his cigarettes were bad for the baby.

Petr Murskov knifed Olga Murskova eight times at their home in the village of Koshki in Russia's southern Samara Oblast region, it is claimed.

The 30-year-old is said to have flown into a drunken rage late at night after his teenage stepdaughter asked him to stop smoking in the flat and reminded him the habit was harmful to babies.

Russian Petr Murskov has been accused of stabbing his heavily pregnant wife Olga to death. He is said to have flown into a rage late at night after his teenage stepdaughter asked him to stop smoking in the flat and reminded him the habit was harmful to babies. Petr and Olga re pictured above

Tamara said: 'He [Murskov] went mad after being asked not to smoke and attacked Olga's daughter, trying to beat her up, but Olga stepped in and he attacked her instead.'

Reports say Murskov grabbed a kitchen knife and stabbed 36-year-old Olga, who was seven months pregnant, to death. He allegedly stabbed her in the stomach eight times, and in her chest and neck.

Olga's daughter ran out of the flat to the stairwell calling for help and soon led neighbours to the scene.

They reportedly found Olga lying on the kitchen floor in a pool of blood and called the emergency services.

The paramedics arrived only to confirm that both Olga and her unborn child had died.

Petr Murskov (pictured) knifed Olga Murskova eight times at their home in the village of Koshki in Russia's southern Samara Oblast region, it is claimed

Murskov was arrested and has been taken into custody for two months while the investigation is ongoing.

A police spokesperson said: 'A criminal case was opened. The suspect was charged with murder and taken into custody. The investigation is ongoing and the detectives are finding out all the circumstances preceding the murder.'

Tamara said: 'I am very sorry for Olga's daughter who is now left without a mother and saw all this horror. All the residents of our village are in deep shock. We mourn and send our condolences. May this monster get what he deserves.'

The couple married several months ago. She was a shop manager and he was unemployed.

The suspect faces up to 15 years in prison if found guilty. The investigation is ongoing.Lion Air may cancel orders for Boeing jets after one of its planes crashed, killing 189 people on board.

The Indonesian carrier is reviewing orders from Boeing and has not ruled out cancelling them.

The companies have been arguing over responsibility for a disastrous 737 jetliner crash in late October.

The two-month-old Lion Air jet (pictured) had suffered engine trouble the day before it crashed, killing 189 people

Co-founder Rusdi Kirana is furious over what he regards as attempts by Boeing to deflect attention from recent design changes and blame Lion Air for the crash, while the airline faces scrutiny over its maintenance and flight crew actions.

Kirana is examining the possibility of cancelling remaining orders of Boeing jets, according to a person familiar with his thinking.

Another source close to the airline said it was looking at cancelling orders. Lion Air has 190 Boeings on order.

No final decision has been made, but discussion over the fate of $22billion of remaining orders highlights the stakes surrounding an investigation involving Boeing's fastest-ever selling jet, the 737 MAX, which entered service last year.

Any request to cancel could be designed to put pressure on Boeing and would likely trigger extensive negotiations.

Many airlines defer orders, but industry sources say aerospace suppliers rarely allow much scope for unilateral cancellations.

Lion Air declined to comment. A Boeing spokesman said: 'We are taking every measure to fully understand all aspects of this accident, and are working closely with the investigating team and all regulatory authorities involved.

Parts of the aircraft including a rogue un-inflated life jacket was pictured among the debris

'We are also supporting our valued customers through this very tough time.'

Last week it was revealed the jet was not in an airworthy condition even on its second-to-last flight the day before the crash.

All 189 people on board the jet were killed when the plane crashed into the Java Sea off Indonesia on October 29 just minutes after taking off from Jakarta.

Pilots experienced similar problems on an earlier flight to those on its doomed last journey, Indonesian investigators said.

According to a technical log the Lion Air plane, which had only been in service a few months, suffered instrument problems the day before because of an 'unreliable' airspeed reading.

Information retrieved from the flight data recorder showed the 'stick shaker' was vibrating the captain's controls warning of a stall throughout most of the flight.

The captain was using his controls to bring the airline's nose up, but an automated anti-stall system was pushing it down.

Investigators stood by as families of passengers inspected the items that had been recoveredFormer Donald Trump lawyer Michael Cohen's plea for leniency from the court got an icy response from the president, who tweeted Monday that his longtime associate could get a 'complete sentence.'

The president went after Cohen, whom on Friday he ripped as 'week' following Cohen's guilty plea to an additional charge of lying to Congress, by saying he 'makes up stories.

Cohen according to a government information now says he lied about the timing and his efforts on behalf of a plan to build a Trump tower in Moscow  and says he briefed 'Individual 1'  Trump  on the status in 2016.

Cohen's lawyers portrayed him to a judge as a hero for cooperating in a probe Trump has 'regularly questioned publicly and stridently.' Trump attacked Cohen again on Monday, and said he should serve a full sentence

'Michael Cohen asks judge for no Prison Time,' Trump vented on Twitter Monday morning, following his return from a trip to Argentina.

'You mean he can do all of the TERRIBLE, unrelated to Trump, things having to do with fraud, big loans, Taxis, etc., and not serve a long prison term?' The president asked.

'He makes up stories to get a GREAT & ALREADY reduced deal for himself, and get...his wife and father-in-law (who has the money?) off Scott Free. He lied for this outcome and should, in my opinion, serve a full and complete sentence,' the president added.

In Friday filing in New York, Cohen's lawyers attached pleas by his father Maurice, a Holocaust survivor, we well as friends and associates who vouched for him.

Trump said Cohen's crimes were 'unrelated to Trump.' Among other things, Cohen pleaded guilty to campaign finance violations for making at $130,000 payment to porn start Stormy Daniels at Trump's diretion

Trump also referenced Cohen's father-in-law, who according to a the book 'Trump / Russia' introduced Cohen to Trump. Cohen denied it in the book

They cited the attacks on him by Trump  and also referenced that Cohen is cooperating despite Trump's public dangling of pardons  he referenced last week that a pardon for former campaign chair Paul Manafort, who is currently jailed and awaiting sentencing, is still on the table.

'In the context of this raw, full-bore attack by the most powerful person in the United States, Michael, formerly a confidante and adviser to Mr. Trump, resolved to cooperate, and voluntarily took the first steps toward doing so even before he was charged,' Cohen's lawyers wrote.

'He took these steps, moreover, despite regular public reports referring to the President's consideration of pardons and pre-pardons in the SCO's investigation.'

President Trump on Monday went after former lawyer Michael Cohen and special counsel Robert Mueller  but praised longtime informal advisor Roger Stone for saying he would never testify against Trump

Minutes after he unloaded on Cohen, Trump hailed his longtime informal advisor Roger Stone, who has said he expects to be indicted by Mueller. Trump praised Stone for having 'guts' by saying he would never testify against him.

Trump wrote: 'I will never testify against Trump.' This statement was recently made by Roger Stone, essentially stating that he will not be forced by a rogue and out of control prosecutor to make up lies and stories about 'President Trump.' Nice to know that some people still have 'guts!'

Trump's Cohen tweet referenced Fima Shusterman, Cohen's father-in-law. Shusterman reportedly loaned $20 million to a Chicago cab operator last year, CNBC reported. The company was then cited in warrants authorities used to raid Cohen's home and office.

The book Trump / Russia by Seth Hettina claims it was the Ukraine-born Shusterman who introduced Cohen to Trump. He is described as a silent partner, and the book suggests Trump gave Cohen the job 'as a favor to Shusterman.' Cohen called the claim 'untrue' and 'fake news' in the book.

'I spoke to two former federal investigators who told me Cohen was introduced to Trump by Cohen's father-in-law, Fima Shusterman, a naturalized U.S. citizen from Ukraine with a 1993 conviction for money-laundering-related crime,' according to the book.

It quotes a former federal investigator saying Shusterman may have 'perhaps even [been] used as a conduit for Russian investors in Trump properties and other ventures.'

Shusterman and his wife bought three Trump World Tower properties in New York worth a combined $7.66 million, according to the book.

Trump followed up his attacks on Cohen with yet another slam on Mueller, whose investigators secured the additional guilty plea Friday and allowed him to reach the cooperation agreement.

Among the damaging claims Cohen made in court is that he was 'directed' by Trump to make a $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels, who claims she had an affair with Trump.

Cohen's lawyers - Guy Petrillo and Amy Lester - said in a filing related to his sentencing that Cohen and his family have faced threats of physical harm, which have been referred to authorities.

The lawyers, in a document that sometimes referred to Trump as 'Client-1,' said Cohen committed campaign finance fraud and made false statements out of a 'fierce loyalty' to Trump and at his direction.

'Michael regrets that his vigor in Client-1's interests in the heat of political battle led him to abandon good judgment and cross legal lines,' they wrote.

Trump on Friday cancelled a planned one-on-one with Russian President Vladimir Putin, just an hour after he said it was a good time to meet, just after Cohen's guilty plea broke.

The government information says Cohen briefed Trump and families members on a Moscow tower deal, and that he wasn't truthful about his contacts with Russian officials about it. The information reveals that his work on behalf of the Moscow deal extended to June 2016, right through the GOP primary process. Trump flat out denied in July 2016 having business with Russia.This shocking footage shows hens being beaten and gassed to death at a battery farm that supplies some of the top supermarkets in the United States.

The undercover footage, filmed at the Mahard Egg Farm in Sulphur, Oklahoma, in July and August, was released by People for the Treatment of Ethical Animals (PETA).

A whistleblower told the charity that hens 'looked like they were rotting alive' there, which prompted their undercover investigation.

The animal rights charity claims that the egg-laying hens were packed so closely together at the farm that they had no place to stand, sit, or lie except for the wire flooring of the cages.

The undercover footage, filmed at the Mahard Egg Farm in Sulphur, Oklahoma, in July and August, was released by People for the Treatment of Ethical Animals (PETA)

According to PETA, the hens had no choice but to urinate and defecate on each other.

Most of the birds were also were missing feathers - the result of stress-induced fighting and self-mutilation, the charity says.

'Chickens are clean, fastidious animals who need to preen and take regular dust baths,' a PETA spokesman said.

'But on farms like Mahard's, they are forced to live in filth. Billions of hens are exploited for their eggs in warehouses like Mahard's.'

The charity claimed in the footage that the hens - which are typically selectively bred to produce as many eggs as possible - were crammed into the cages for 'two years of exploitation.'

PETA claimed that almost 8,000 hens suffered and died during the time they filmed there, when temperatures in the farm's sheds reached 106F (41C).

Hens considered unprofitable were roughly yanked out of their cages, slammed against metal boxes and then crudely gassed with carbon dioxide

Decaying dead chickens were left with living poultry in the cramped cages for several days before they were removed.

A PETA eyewitness who worked on the farm also discovered that a supervisor and workers denied care to sick and injured hen, including one which had an injured leg.

The footage also revealed what happens to hens that they were considered unprofitable.

Those hens were roughly yanked out of their cages, slammed against metal boxes and then crudely gassed with carbon dioxide.

The video shows the hens being dumped onto a conveyor belt and then into trucks, where they landed amid massive piles of their other dead birds.

The charity claims workers tried to kill the survivors by slamming them against the trucks, beating them with a piece of wood or breaking their necks.

A whistleblower told the charity that hens 'looked like they were rotting alive' there, which prompted their undercover investigation

The shocking footage showing workers beating the chickens' heads against metal bars

PETA claims that the hens which survived that were left to die in agony, likely of suffocation, under the bodies of other chickens.

During the time in which they filmed, a total of 49,000 hens were yanked out of their cages.

Mahard Egg Farm, Inc., keeps up to 1.2 million hens in 11 massive sheds at their farm in Sulphur.

Daphna Nachminovitch, PETA Senior vice president, said: 'This nightmarish footage showing workers beating chickens' heads against metal bars and sick, neglected hens living in squalor among decaying corpses should be enough to ruin any decent person's taste for eggs.

'PETA urges consumers to remember the suffering of these hens and leave eggs off their plates.'

The video shows the hens being dumped onto a conveyor belt and then into trucks, where they landed amid massive piles of their other dead birds

Kroger, which is the countrys largest supermarket chain and operate 2,769 stores across the US, confirmed they have suspended business with the farm pending an investigation.

'This video is disturbing and difficult to watch and this behaviour is consistent with Kroger's approach to animal welfare in the supply chain, a Kroger spokeswoman said.

'We were assured last week by Mahard's leadership that they immediately initiated an internal review of farm operations and they began retraining their team in proper animal care.

'While the investigation is being conducted, we are taking steps to suspend supply from this facility shown in this video.

'We have asked Mahard to share their comprehensive corrective action plan and timeline with us, which they will review in partnership with animal welfare experts.'

PETA also submitted evidence to the sheriff's office in Murray County, Oklahoma, who are investigating the footage.

The shocking footage comes after the farm was forced to pay $1.9 million in penalties by the Environmental Protection Agency for polluting water by spreading Chicken manure on fields between 1997 and 2011.

The US Department of Labour also fined the farm $63,000 for 245 violations of labour law between 2006 and 2016.

Mahard Egg Farm Inc. has been contacted for comment.The girls were found camping overnight at Walmart (above) in Ludington, Mason County

A mother in Michigan was arrested on drugs charges after bringing her daughter and a friend to Walmart to 'camp' overnight.

Officers in Mason County were called to a Walmart store regarding a suspicious situation at around 6.49 am on Saturday.

When deputies arrived, Walmart employees told them there were two young girls who were reportedly found 'camping' inside the store's clothing section.

When approached the girls, they left on foot.

The officers later learned that the girls were both ten and were taking part in a social media challenge where people allegedly sleep inside large stores.

One of the girls left her cellphone behind and they were able to get in touch with one of the mothers.

Sheriff Kim Cole said the mother of one of the girls allegedly took them to the store at around 2 am.

She subsequently returned to meet with the deputies. They discovered she was carrying heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine.

The woman was arrested and faces charges of drug possession. The store is open 24 hours.

Investigators said the girls were located shortly before 8 am walking on Sixth Street near Pere Marquette Highway, which is more than a mile away from the store.

The camping challenge first emerged this year, where teens and young adults attempt to hide out in chain stores and restaurants.

Mason County Sheriff Kim Cole (above) said the woman who was later arrested brought her daughter and a friend to a Walmart store at around 2am

The goal of the new fad, which apparently started with two Belgian teens in 2016, is to sneak inside a store or restaurant just before closing time, and remain there undetected until the next day, The Wall Street Journal reported.

A YouTube search returned almost two million results of the challenge as people document their adventures from inside a Toys R Us, Best Buy and even a trampoline park.

Retailers and police are trying to crack down on the sleepovers, citing safety concerns and the worry it causes to parents.Ali Mills was carried out of the crowd at Alexandra Palace by security but later died

This is the first photograph of a 25-year-old rock fan who died in a mosh pit at a Bring Me The Horizon gig.

Ali Mills was carried out of the crowd at the 10,000-capacity Alexandra Palace in North London by security, with emergency services called on Friday night - but he later died at the scene.

The band from Sheffield have since told how they were 'horrified' by the death of Mr Mills, who was from Cheshunt on the Essex-Hertfordshire border.

Some fans have criticised security, but the venue insisted it was a 'tragic medical incident and unrelated to the extensive security measures in place'

One friend said online: 'Rest In Peace, Ali Mills. What a tragic way to go out, seeing your favourite band play a sold out gig with the whole place rocking. That could have been any of us, the pits were that crazy on Friday. Stay rocking, dude.'

And another friend, Aimee Thompson, wrote a blog post saying: 'Ali Mills was such a gentle soul with a ridiculously immature sense of humour who offered a safe space to each and every single one of his friends, let that be what you take away from this.'

Oliver Sykes of Bring Me The Horizon, pictured performing at Reading Festival in August 2018

The band said in a statement: 'Words cannot express how horrified we are feeling this evening after hearing about the death of a young man at our show last night.

'Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones at this terrible time. We will comment further in due course.'

Some fans at the gig criticised security staff after the death, with a petition launched to 'Keep Concerts A Safe Place' having already gathered 1,300 signatures.

It reads: 'Concerts are meant to be a safe place, where fans from all over the world can come together and enjoy something that has shaped all of our lives individually.

'The situation regarding Bring Me The Horizon at Alexandra Palace is one that needs to influence the future of gigs in large venues for the safety of every attending fan.

'Having witnessed first hand what happened in medical, and seeing the efforts of the nine paramedics trying to save Ali's life through automatic CPR, it was one that has scarred my mind and thoughts with nightmares to come.'

The petition called for security staff to have further training, adding that it was calling for 'mid centre barriers to prevent surges and extra pit work security'.

Other fans offered their condolences to the victim's family and highlighted the dangers of mosh pits.

Liam Atkins tweeted: 'So sad, was at the concert and had no idea, thoughts to family and loved ones - we were all just trying to have a good night out.'

The band, made up of frontman Oli Sykes, bassist Matt Kean, guitarist Lee Malia, drummer Mat Nicholls and keyboardist Jordan Fish, offered their condolences to the young man's family

Abbi Roberts added: 'I know pits are fun but it breaks my heart that people are risking their lives by trying to have fun.

'I was at the gig in Birmingham and people were coming out with bloody noses and visibly broken bones - this is not what music is about.'

Concert attendee Tina Thorne described paramedics rushing to the scene with an empty wheelchair on Twitter.

She tweeted: 'I did see a couple of guys in green running from the back of the venue into the outside part with a wheel chair - no one in it - but obviously on their way to an incident somewhere in the venue.'

Alexandra Palace confirmed that a 'medical incident' had occurred at the BMTH concert

Bring Me The Horizon told of its sadness that a fan had died at their gig at Alexandra Palace

A London Ambulance Service spokesman said the man died at the scene, adding: 'We sent an ambulance crew, a paramedic in a fast response car, an advanced paramedic and our hazardous area response team to the scene. Our first medic arrived in less than three minutes.'

An Alexandra Palace spokesman said: 'A medical incident occurred at (Friday) night's Bring Me The Horizon concert. Our thoughts and condolences are with the individual's family and we would like to express our deepest sympathy to them.

The venue later added: 'We would like to clarify that this was a tragic medical incident and unrelated to the extensive security measures in place.

'However, we feel we must address inaccurate information. There were over 150 security personnel on site for the concert.'A paranoid schizophrenic named Jesse James stabbed a mom-of-three to death in his Kentucky hotel over the weekend, according to police.

Amanda Dakota Webster, 26, of Arizona, was found dead just before noon on Saturday inside a room at Home 2 Suits on Woodspoint Drive, which was rented by 32-year-old Jesse A James.

James was arrested two hours later after giving police two fake names at Rave Cinemas on Mall Road, where he was reportedly 'acting strangely,' according to employees there.

Cops said he initially confessed to stabbing the married mother-of-three to death, but has since pleaded not guilty to murder.

Jesse James, 32 (left), has been charged with murdering 26-year-old Amanda Webster, a mother-of-three (right), in Kentucky on Saturday

Webster's lifeless body covered in stab wounds was discovered inside James' room at the Home 2 Suites in Florence, Kentucky

When interviewed by a police detective, James reportedly admitted to killing Webster and was charged with murder, tampering with evidence, identity theft and giving false identifying information.

WCPO-TV reported that during his initial court appearance on Monday, James repeatedly said 'not guilty' as a Boone County judge read the charges against him.

His aunt, Mildred Scherder, told the station the 32-year-old murder suspect suffers from paranoid schizophrenia and was off his medication. Police have not confirmed the diagnosis.

His brother, Justin, on Sunday and Monday posted lengthy status updates on Facebook addressing Jesse's arrest, in which he argued that the criminal justice system has failed both their family and that of the victim by turning its back on Jesse's mental health problems and denying him the treatment he needed.

Police arrested James at Rave Cinemas two hours after the discovery of Webster's body

Hardworking: A close friend said Webster was married and traveled from state to state working construction (pictured left and right on the job) to provide for her three young sons

'He has been unsafe to be in public for some time now, and regardless of how many times he was arrested, assessed, held for 3 days and let go, institutionalized and told hes not bad enough after just a couple of weeks, kicked out of mental health programs for being too violent, pleas and begging for help and guidance, nothing happened,' Justin James wrote.

The 26-year-old mom-of-three was from Cameron on the Navajo reservation in northern Arizona

The brother revealed that Jesse's latest stint at a mental institution ended on November 30, just one day after he was admitted.

Prior to that, the 32-year-old alleged schizophrenic had spent months in jail without having access to his medications, despite his parents' repeated pleas.

'This is what our current system deems acceptable. He then checked himself into the room that forever changed the lives of everyone involved,' Justin added, calling Webster's murder 'a senseless and completely preventable tragedy.'

James' bail was set at $1million. A public defender will be appointed to represent him. He is due back in court on Friday.

Aurelia Webster said her niece, Amanda, moved to the Florence area around three months ago. She was from Cameron on the Navajo reservation in northern Arizona.

Webster's best friend wrote in the description of a GoFundMe campaign and on her Facebook page that the 26-year-old woman was a traveling construction worker.

James' family said the 32-year-old is a paranoid schizophrenic who was off his medication. In court on Monday, he repeatedly said, 'not guilty'

James' brother, Justin, took to Facebook on Sunday and Monday, accusing the criminal justice system of failing his brother, and the victim

Kvonakdence Kson wrote that Webster leaves behind her husband and three sons, aged three months old, two years old and 10 years old.

The friend, who also works construction, said that she and Webster had been staying together at the Florence hotel. It is unclear how the victim ended up in the suspect's room.

The online fundraiser has drawn more than $8,000 in donations as of Monday afternoon.

Online records indicate that James has an extensive criminal history, which includes charges of meth and cocaine possession, public drunkenness and probation violations.Zholia Alemi (pictured) was investigated nine times during her 22-year career, it emerged

A conwoman who posed as an NHS psychiatrist was investigated nine times during her 22-year career, it emerged today.

Zholia Alemi, 56, was accused of inappropriate prescriptions, making insensitive comments to patients, falsifying her CV, illegally detaining patients and bullying.

She was also investigated for alleged prescription fraud and failing to disclose she was accused of assaulting a police officer.

Despite numerous formal complaints dating back to 1998, the strongest sanctions she received until her arrest in 2016 were conditions and a warning.

She was suspended only after police in west Cumbria arrested her for fraud and theft.

Today, the General Medical Council (GMC), the doctors' watchdog, apologised for its 'inadequate' checks in the 1990s.

New Zealander Alemi was jailed for five years for fraud in October after she faked a dementia patient's will in an attempt to inherit her 1.3million estate.

Following her conviction, a local newspaper investigation uncovered how Alemi's entire medical career was built on forged documents.

Her decades-long hoax began when she registered with the General Medical Council using a forged medical degree from a New Zealand university, from which she had dropped out after a year.

A GMC spokesman said: 'Since we confirmed that Zholia Alemi gained registration fraudulently in 1995 we have been reviewing all fitness to practise complaints that were raised with us.

'In all we investigated nine complaints during the 23 years that she was on the register, and in the majority of these referrals we took action to address the issues raised.

New Zealander Alemi was jailed for fraud in October after she faked a dementia patient's will in an attempt to inherit her 1.3million estate

'From our review it is clear that a concern about Zholia Alemi was raised with us in 1998 when there was a complaint about inappropriate personal comments made by her to a patient.

'This was closed by the GMC but the matter was handled locally - restrictions and supervision were put in place to address the issue.

'In 2004 we received a complaint which culminated in Alemi being given formal advice about the need to demonstrate sensitive communication with families.

'The next time that concerns were raised about Alemi was in December 2010 - this led to her receiving a warning in 2012.

'From December 2010 until the warning was given in July 2012 we investigated the concerns that had been raised, as well as some new concerns that came to light during the course of that investigation.

'Matters arising from the warning were later referred to a hearing, which took place in 2017 and at which she was found not impaired by a medical practitioner tribunal.'

Alemi claimed to have a degree from the University of Auckland in New Zealand when she came to work in the UK in 1992.

But she had actually dropped out of the five-year medical training course after failing her first year.

Nobody at the General Medical Council (GMC), the watchdog responsible for vetting the background of medics, checked whether her documentation was genuine.

At that time, doctors from certain Commonwealth countries could be cleared to start work simply by presenting their qualifications, without sitting any assessments.

It meant that for more than two decades from 1995, Alemi was free to treat thousands of mental health patients in the NHS - most recently working with dementia patients in west Cumbria.

In many cases, Alemi will have prescribed medicine, made assessments and even sectioned some of the most vulnerable in society.

Her bogus life began to unravel when Alemi was convicted of trying to fake the will of an elderly grieving widow to steal her 1.3million fortune.Theresa May insisted today she had been 'robust' with the Saudi Crown Prince accused of ordering the murder of Jamal Khashoggi after meeting him at the G20.

Jeremy Corbyn said the Prime Minister had offered no more than 'warm words' about the brutal killing and the use of British-made weapons by Saudi Arabia in Yemen.

Mrs May defended the Government's actions in a Commons statement on her visit to the summit in Argentina. She and the Crown Prince sat stony-faced as they met in Buenos Aries on Saturday.

Saudi Arabia has been under acute pressure to come clean on the murder of Mr Khashoggi in its Turkish consulate in October.

Riyadh has also been widely condemned for how it is waging its war in Yemen, despite the initial intervention being endorsed by the UN.

Theresa May (pictured today in the Commons) insisted she had been 'robust' with the Saudi Crown Prince accused of ordering the murder of Jamal Khashoggi after meeting him at the G20

Jeremy Corbyn (pictured today in the Commons) said the Prime Minister had offered no more than 'warm words' about the brutal killing and the use of British-made weapons by Saudi Arabia in Yemen

Mrs May told MPs: 'I met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, first to stress the importance of a full, transparent and credible investigation into the terrible murder of Jamal Khashoggi, and for those responsible to be held to account  a matter which I also discussed with President Erdogan.

'And second, to urge an end to the conflict in Yemen and relief for those suffering from starvation  and to press for progress at the upcoming talks in Stockholm.

'Our relationship with Saudi Arabia is important to this country, but that does not prevent us from putting forward robust views on these matters of grave concern.'

The Labour leader said the PM's intervention had failed to get across the message.

Mr Corbyn said: 'The Prime Minister told the media she would 'sit down and be robust' with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman - the chief architect of the brutal war in Yemen which has killed 56,000 people and brought 14 million to the brink of famine. The Crown Prince is believed to have ordered the murder of Jamal Khashoggi.

'Rather than be robust as promised, we learn that the Prime Minister told the dictator 'please don't use the weapons we are selling you in the war you're waging' and asked him nicely to investigate the murder he allegedly ordered.

'Leaders should not just offer warm words against human rights atrocities, but back their words up with action.

'Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and others have stopped arms sales to Saudi Arabia. When will the UK?'

Mrs May defended the Government's actions in a Commons statement on her visit to the summit in Argentina. She and the Crown Prince sat stony-faced as they met in Buenos Aries on Saturday (pictured)

In response, Mrs May told him: 'Both I with the Crown Prince MBS and the Foreign Secretary with King Salman we have been absolutely robust in our response to the terrible killing of Jamal Khashoggi and we have been clear about the need for those responsible to be held to account.'

The killing of Washington Post columnist Khashoggi in October at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul has strained Saudi Arabia's ties with the West and battered Prince Mohammed's image abroad.

Saudi Arabia has said the prince had no prior knowledge of the killing.

Western leaders are also concerned about the worsening situation in Yemen, where a Saudi-led war has put millions on the brink of starvation.

There has been widespread condemnation and public outrage over attacks on sites such as school bus and hospitals, where Yemeni civilians, including children, have died.Nehemiah Griego, 21, is shown in a recent mugshot. He has been in jail since January 2013 for killing five members of his family but may be released in days

A schizophrenic prisoner who has been in jail since 2013 after shooting his family dead aged 15 could either be released from prison or sentenced for another 120 years pending the outcome of a week-long hearing this week.

Nehemiah Griego, 21, shot and killed his mother Sarah, his nine-year-old brother, Zephania and sisters Jael, five , and Angelina, two, at their home in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 2013, with one of the family's .22 rifle.

He then waited for his father Greg to come home and shot and killed him with an AR-15 he had found inside a closet in the family's home.

Nehemiah told police he had been having suicidal thoughts and that he planned to go on killing and die in a shootout with police.

He was taken into juvenile custody and was diagnosed with a schizoaffective disorder but was told he would be released on his 21st birthday on March 20, under the state's laws.

A judge decided in March not to let him out, however, after attorneys filed a last minute appeal of his juvenile sentencing.

If the judge determines that he has not been rehabilitated during the last five years, he will be sentenced as an adult and faces a maximum of 120 years behind bars.

In January 2013, Griego first shot his mother, Sarah, in her bed as she slept, then he woke up his brother Zephania to show the boy their mother's body before shooting him as well.

Nehemiah shot his father Greg, his mother, Sarah, his nine-year-old brother, Zephania and sisters Jael, five , and Angelina, two, at their home in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in January 2013

After the shooting, Nehemiah told police he was planning to kill more people and wanted to die in a shootout with officers

Griego then walked into his sisters' bedroom and fatally shot five-year-old Jael and two-year-old Angelina.

Hours later, his father, Greg, returned home from his shift at a homeless shelter, and the teen  who had been waiting in a bathroom  ambushed him, authorities said.

He later told a deputy that he had anger issues and had been annoyed with his mother before carrying out the shootings, according to sheriffs documents.

His attorneys have maintained in his defense that he had been abused at home and likely suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result of beatings at the hands of his father, who was a gang member-turned-pastor.

The teenager (pictured at the time of the attack) used guns he found inside his parents home at the time

Prosecutors had argued for Griego to be sentenced as an adult and sent to state prison after he pleaded guilty, saying that the crime was premeditated and that he has not expressed remorse for it. Pato again made those two points in her filing Monday.

She also said Griegos older sisters, Vanessa Lightbourne and Annette Verreault, remained in fear for their safety based on his past acts and statements.

Both told state police that they had been aware of reported threats made by their younger brother, but that neither of them had been threatened directly.

They did not testify at a hearing two years ago where Griego was found to have made progress toward rehabilitation.

Griego told investigators that he had learned to work through his emotions. He had been diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, but he said he no longer takes medication for either.

He planned to continue therapy after his release, he said.

He told me there is nobody out there that is worth his time and that he does not want to start his time over, that it is pointless to start over [in prison], wrote State Police Agent Marcus Lopez.Police say Elizabeth McKeown, 46, slammed her Mustang into a car driven by Barbara Foster, 57, and then ran her over when she confronted McKeown

A former nurse from Missouri has been charged with murder after a road rage incident turned deadly and she ran her fellow driver over when she got out of her car.

Elizabeth McKeown, 46, boasted to cops that she's 'tricked' victim Barbara Foster, 57, by pretending to be 'nice' to lure her out of her car.

She'd then put her foot down and 'slammed into her and cut her in half.'

McKeown, a mother who lost her nursing license after being caught stealing prescription painkillers, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder.

Police say she had been on the way to the bank to try and make a car payment on November 20 when she got stuck behind Foster, a grandmother.

She began aggressively hitting the victim's car with her Mustang.

Eventually, Foster got out of her car to confront McKeown. That's when police say McKeown purposefully ran over Foster over in the horrific road rage killing.

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Eye-witnesses say they could not believe what they had just saw.

'She [Foster] is just sitting there saying you just hit my car, you are still hitting my car.' said Jamie Luaces-Adams told KY3.

'That is when she just started pushing. She must have backed up a little bit or turned because the woman who had gotten out of her car was trying to get back into her car and the Mustang came around the driver's side and went right over her,' said Austyn Adams, who used his vehicle to box McKeown in.

Barbara Foster (left) was the victim of a horrific road rage incident. Police say McKeown told them she 'tricked' Foster into thinking she would be still in the car- and instead ran her over to 'cut her in half.' McKeown, right, is pictured in her driver's seat as good Samaritans blocked her in from driving off after the incident

'I am looking behind me, I see this poor woman go underneath this Mustang. And I can't believe what I am seeing.' said Luaces-Adams.

Once people at the intersection realized McKeown was going to try and drive off- they took action.

Motorists who witnessed the attack quickly intervened to stop the suspect driving off, and blocked her into the intersection with their cars.

'At that point we realized it is like well she is not going to stop. I saw her coming up behind me, she is flashing her flashers and honking her horn and everything,' said Adams.

'And she came in behind me. And I cut back over and around that time the silver SUV on the right had pulled up to box her on the side.'

'My husband barely gets us out of her way in fear of her ramming us. But then kind of slides us in so we are blocking her from getting out. And she is just ramming the car in front of her trying to get free and get out,' said Luaces-Adams.

Once people in the intersection realized that McKeown they blocked her in with their cars as they waited for police to arrive

McKeown is charged with murder after the horrific road rage incident in Missouri

'You just ran this person over. You just ran that person over dude,' Austyn Adams said as he confronted her and recorded her in her car.

'I looked in the drivers side and she was just sitting there staring, holding the steering wheel. And she looked over at me and just kind of looked back.' said Adams.

'She just looked at me like no emotion, no anything, just staring. I told her it is like you just ran a person over, you're going to jail.'

McKeown was charged with first-degree murder, and prosecutors called her 'a potential danger to every single person in this community,' according to the News Ledger.

She told police in her statements after the crash that she had 'tricked' Foster.

'I tricked her, you know, make her think I was going to be nice, be still and everything.'

Instead, she said she 'slammed into her and cut her in half' with her car.

Barbara Foster was raising her granddaughters, they will now be cared for by their great grandmother.

McKeown is a former nurse, according to the News Ledger, and was fired from a nursing job in Arkansas at at St. Edward's Mercy Medical Center in Fort Smith in 2006.

Barbara Foster was raising her granddaughters- they will now be cared for by their great grandmother

She was caught stealing prescription painkillers, twice. Her nursing license was suspended according to Fred Knight, general counsel for the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

McKeown is a wife, a mother, a real estate company employee and someone who struggled with bills as well as drugs.

Springfield police say its too early to tell if she was under the influence when she ran over Foster.

McKeown also has tax liens and a string of unpaid medical bills.

McKeown plead not guilty to the charge of first-degree murder and armed criminal action and is being held in the Greene County Jail without bond.Samantha Markle poked fun at her estranged sister Meghan over claims she demanded air fresheners to be used inside St George's Chapel ahead of her wedding to Prince Harry - to get rid of a musty smell.

Samantha, 53, joked that the Duchess of Sussex was so demanding that if she ever saw the royal ghost of Henry VIII's infamous wife Anne Boleyn, she'd call the Ghostbusters - a jab at Meghan's alleged request for air freshners to get rid of the historic venue's musty smell before the big day.

According to unnamed royal insiders, Meghan's plea was rejected by Buckingham Palace, where officials pointed out that the chapel was Queen Elizabeth II's regular place of worship.

Shot across the bow: Samantha Markle mocked her half-sister Meghan in this tweet, invoking the beheaded second wife of Henry VIII and the 1984 cult classic Ghostbusters

Samantha, 53 (left), seized upon recently reported rumors that ahead of Meghan's wedding to Prince Harry in May, the former Suits star asked for air fresheners to be deployed inside St George's Chapel (Meghan and Harry pictured on their wedding day May 19, right)

The future Duchess of Sussex reportedly deemed the 15th century church, which is the queen's place of worship, too musty

Samantha, who is said to be working on a tell-all book about her pregnant half-sister, seized on the titillating reports presenting the former Suits star-turned-royal in an unfavorable light.

'I heard a rumor about demands being made for scent busters or. air frreshner in #Windsor,' Samantha wrote. 'When sis sees the ghost of Ann Boleyn walking the tower with her head in her hands, will she demand Ghosbusters? Lol.'

The message was accompanied by a GIF of Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis and Ernie Hudson shooting their proton pack weapons at a ghost in the 1984 cult classic Ghostbusters.

Anne Boleyn was the second, and the most controversial and influential, of Henry VIII's six wives.

The king had his first marriage to the childless Catherine of Aragon annulled so he could marry Anne, and by doing so broke with the Roman Catholic Church and triggered the English Reformation.

Anne Boleyn, portrayed by Natalie Dormer in the Showtime series The Tudors, was executed by her husband Henry VIII in 1536, after their marriage sparked the English Refomration

Over the course of their tumultuous marriage, Anne gave birth to a daughter who would go on to become Queen Elizabeth I, but failed to produce a male heir.

In 1536, Henry ordered Anne to be executed by decapitation after trying her for adultery and incest.

Samantha, who suffers from multiple sclerosis and is wheelchair-bound, has been feuding with Meghan since before the wedding, most often about her estrangement from their ailing 74-year-old father, Thomas Markle.

Meghan, 34, and Harry, 37, are set to welcome their first child together sometime between April and May, which is when Samantha is planning to release her book, titled In The Shadows of The Duches, which, in the author's words, promises to uncover all of her sister's 'lies' and shed light on the rift in their family.

In a tweet on Saturday, Samantha accused her sister of 'ghosting' their entire family.

Samantha's barbed comments directed at Meghan come amid a litany of reports suggesting that the newly minted duchess and her royal husband have had a falling-out with Prince William and his wife, the Duchess of Cambridge.

Samantha has accused Meghan of ghosting her father Thomas and their side of the family

It was also suggested that the mom-to-be duchess was overly demanding with staff, and that her personal assistant quit after being reduced to tears.

Last month, it was announced that Harry and Meghan were moving out of Kensington Palace, where William and Kate reside with their three children, and relocating to Windsor.

Despite a steady drumbeat of stories painting a picture of a strained relationship between the two royal couples, last week it emerged that William, Harry and their wives will join the Queen and other members of the royal family at Sandringham for Christmas, in an apparent show of unity.An online petition is urging government officials to allow the father of a slain North Carolina teen girl to attend her funeral.

The Change.org petition urging immigration officials to let the father of Hania Aguilar, 13, attend her funeral next week had more than 14,000 signatures as of Monday morning.

According to the petition, Hania's father lives in Guatemala and would need an expedited visa to attend. The petition is rapidly nearing its goal of 15,000 signatures.

'No parent should be denied the right to attend their child's funeral- especially when Hania was a Citizen-born in Tennessee,' the petition reads.

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An online petition is urging government agencies to allow the father of Hania Aguilar (pictured), 13, who was killed in North Carolina, to attend her funeral. The teen's father lives in Guatemala and would need an expedited visa

According to the petition (pictured), Hania's father lives in Guatemala and would need an expedited visa to attend. The petition is rapidly nearing its goal of 15,000 signatures. 'No parent should be denied the right to attend their child's funeral,' the petition reads

The petition also urged agencies 'to make this work given his family and daughter are victims of a brutal crime that took the life of his daughter'.

According to the US State Department, the current wait time for Guatemalan citizens to schedule an interview to apply for a non-immigrant visitor visa is 24 days.

Guatemalan citizens may request an expedited interview appointment for 'urgent, unforeseen situations' including funerals, the department says on its website.

Hania's body was found near Lumberton, North Carolina, three weeks after she was kidnapped outside her home.

Investigators revealed the identity of the body as Hania's last Wednesday through state crime lab tests.

'This is the outcome that we all feared,' Lumberton Police Chief Michael McNeill said at the time.

'We did not want to hear this. We wanted to bring Hania back home and bring her back home alive to our community. It hurts.'

McNeill pledged to bring whoever is responsible to justice. Investigators said they don't currently have a suspect or person of interest.

A memorial was held for the 13-year-old at a church in Red Springs, North Carolina last Wednesday night. Photo courtesy of WPDE

Investigators spent Wednesday combing the area in daylight after finding the body the previous night near Lumberton (pictured above)

Hania was kidnapped on November 5 from a mobile home park. Police said a man forced the teenager into an SUV and drove off. The SUV was later found dumped several miles from the mobile home park

Hania's body was found in a body of water in Robeson County about 10 miles south of the mobile home park where she was kidnapped on November 5 after going outside to start a relative's SUV before school.

Authorities wouldn't elaborate on whether the body had been concealed, but said it was not visible from the road or obvious to people passing by.

Investigators spent Wednesday combing the area in daylight after finding the body the previous night.

The cause of death hasn't been released, pending an autopsy. Investigators would not describe the condition of the body.

An FBI official said he did not have any information as to whether Hania was killed where she was found or elsewhere.

A $30,000 reward remains in place for information on her kidnapping

Police said a man forced the teenager into an SUV outside her home and drove off.

The SUV was found several miles south of her mobile home park and her body was found a few miles farther away.

McNeill has previously said that a witness saw a man dressed in black with a yellow bandanna grab Hania in the Rosewood Mobile Home Park in Lumberton.

Police said the eighth grader had taken her aunt's keys to start the vehicle to prepare to leave for the bus stop.

They say the man forced her into the green Ford Expedition and drove off.

The FBI soon joined the search, offering reward money and transmitting her picture around the country.

Authorities found the SUV abandoned several days later, but signs of the girl or her remains eluded investigators for several weeks.

Drones, dogs and scores of searchers on foot spent weeks combing the county about 100 miles south of Raleigh.

A $30,000 reward remains in place for information related to the kidnapping, the FBI said.A man who was hired by a woman from Colorado to 'kill her' has been sentenced to 48 years in jail.

19-year-old Natalie Bollinger was shot in the head last December. Weeks earlier she had posted on Craigslist about a desire to have a hit man come and end her life.

Joseph Michael Lopez was initially charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of Bollinger and was facing life in prison, but Lopez accepted a plea deal and plead guilty to second-degree murder to avoid the possibility of life in jail.

The man accused of killing a teenager from Colorado pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in Natalie Bollinger's death. Joseph Lopez made the plea in court on Monday

Police arrested Lopez, center, after investigators examined Bollinger's social media accounts. Lopez told police that she shot herself but changed his story when he was told the coroner ruled her death a homicide

Joseph Michael Lopez, 22, claimed Bollinger hired him through a Craigslist ad that said 'I want to put a hit on myself.'

Bollinger disappeared almost a year ago on December 28, 2017.

Her body was found a day later with a 9mm shell casing was found about five feet from her body.

The coroner's office determined she had been killed by a single gunshot wound to the head but but could not rule out a possible suicide.

Natalie's father, Ted Bollinger, was able to speak in court at the sentencing hearing on Monday morning.

He told the judge he did not agree with the plea deal offered to Lopez because he didn't believe it was justice.

At the sentencing, he said his daughter was an artist, deeply emotional and passionate. She loved nature, he said.

'You took advantage of my daughter,' he said. 'She was vulnerable and drugged... You premeditated. Brutally shot and killed my baby. I asked for an eye for an eye. You have been protected. The Bollinger family had no say in this. This is a deal with the devil.'

Lopez told police that 19-year-old Natalie Bollinger wanted to die and had posted a Craigslist ad seeking someone to kill her

Both of Natalie Bollinger's grandmothers also spoke, noting that she had never talked about ending her life. She had a scholarship for college and wanted to work in a field that helped others.

Lopez was arrested on February 8 and was charged with first-degree murder but his plea deal will see him being made eligible for parole.

In court, Lopez insisted Bollinger hired him through Craigslist to kill her.

Lopez said the slain teen had posted an ad under the Women seeking Men section of Craigslist titled 'I want to put a hit on myself'.

Bollinger disappeared from her Broomfield home last Dec. 28 and her body was found, with gunshot wounds, in a field near Thornton a few days later

Bollinger's step-mother Shelly Campbell also told Denver7 that she was unhappy with the plea deal

'Lopez took her life,' Campbell said. 'He ended it. He had a choice. No matter what anyone says he pulled that trigger, he had a choice,' she said

The Domino's Pizza worker said he contacted Bollinger pretending to be a hit man and agreed to meet and kill her after a lengthy text conversation. Police said the pair had sent more than 100 text messages to each other the night Bollinger was reported missing.

Bollinger brought a gun with her, the affidavit said. Lopez told police she told him she was having problems with her boyfriend

The affidavit also stated that Bollinger's boyfriend was the one who reported her missing telling police that his Glock 9 mm pistol had been removed from his home.

According to Lopez, he picked up Bollinger from her home on December 28 and she told him that she wanted to be killed 'on her knees ... executed from behind'. He also said they discussed how he would be paid.

Bollinger, Lopez said, brought her own gun.

As the pair allegedly drove around looking for a location for the shooting, Lopez said he tried to talk her out of it but she insisted she wanted to follow through with the killing saying she was having issues with her boyfriend.

The affidavit states that Lopez told detectives he changed his mind about killing the teen and dropped her back off at her apartment. After investigators told him his GPS placed him at the site her body was found Lopez finally admitted to pulling the trigger.

He said before he shot Bollinger they both got down on their knees and prayed. Lopez then said he closed his eyes as he fired a single shot.

Bollinger's autopsy report said she had a lethal amount of heroin in her blood, and that she appeared to have a history of heroin and methamphetamine use.

'There's no justice in this,' dad Ted Bollinger said to Denver7. 'And for Adams County to have enough evidence to convict him and then make him an offer is a spit in my family's face.'

Lopez initially told investigators he drove around trying to talk Bollinger out of her plan, and then brought Bollinger back to her home

By sheer coincidence, Bollinger is also being held at the same facility as Lopez due to parole violations of his own.

'They messed up by putting me in here, because I got clarity in a lot of different things in my daughter's case,' Bollinger said. 'Joseph talked to too many people. He confided in too many people.'

'My children could watch him walk out of prison,' Bollinger said. 'That is not justice. I will not see my daughter again, I will never get to speak to my daughter again.'

Bollinger's step-mother Shelly Campbell also told Denver7 that she was unhappy with the plea deal.

'Lopez took her life,' Campbell said. 'He ended it. He had a choice. No matter what anyone says he pulled that trigger, he had a choice. If there's one thing I would tell Natalie if I only got one thing to say is... I'd probably tell her that no rock would go unturned. I promised her.'Mark Starling, 57, defrauded his closest companions out of 3million using a 'classic Ponzi scheme'. He was jailed for five years at Southwark Crown Court [File photo]

A fake stockbroker who tricked his lifelong friends out of millions of pounds to pay for his children's private school education has been jailed for five years.

Mark Starling, 57, defrauded his closest companions, some of whom he had known for over 20 years, out of 3 million using a 'classic Ponzi scheme..'

He claimed to be running three funds, the 'Pilot Dax Fund', the 'Shadow Dax Fund' and the 'Pilot Eurostoxx Fund', and described himself as a 'proprietary futures trader,' telling investors he could make them 12-18 per cent a year.

But Starling only ever invested around 8,000 of the 3 million he stole and lost 2,450.

Starling took some of his investors for an expenses paid trip to the world famous Le Mans racing track for a day of high-speed chicanery.

Starling spent family holidays with one of his victims, Martin Pilkington. His wife was the godmother to one of Pilkington's children, Southwark Crown Court heard.

He even managed to fool a stock broker, an independent financial advisor, a corporate financier and a police officer into handing over cash so he could pay 165,000 worth of school fees.

The court heard Starling took some of his investors for an expenses paid trip to the world famous Le Mans racing track, above, for a day of high-speed chicanery. He described himself as a 'proprietary futures trader', the court heard [File photo]

Prosecutor Michael Hick said: 'He was simply using their money to fund a comfortable lifestyle.

'Unfortunately the scheme was a scam from the start. The money was used to allow Mr Starling to live a comfortable life without the hassle of having to go to work or pay tax.

'All of the investors tell similar stories, but it was all fiction.'

Starling had met many of the victims through a local rowing club and most of them considered him a close friend.

'There were no funds and there were no profits - he was simply stealing from his friends.'

The prosecutor told how Starling had spent 46,000 on shopping an 42,000 on foreign holidays.

He also spent 220,000 of the fraudulent cash on property and another 30,000 on cars.

Mr Hick added: 'He had spent over a million pounds on himself and his family.

'Mr Starling would sometimes pay money back to his investors to keep up the illusion in classic Ponzi scheme fashion.'

Judge Philip Bartle, QC, said: 'He did not do a stroke of work over these years, he didn't do a stroke of lawful, gainful employment.'

Philip Rule, defending, said Starling was in fact a frustrated trader and he had simply developed a mental block when it came to executing the trade.

He pointed to an email between Starling and consultancy called Mental Edge Training where he explains that he is overcome by anxiety at the idea of actually buying the German stocks.

But the judge remained unconvinced, stating that Starling continued to defraud his friends for years after that email.

Starling was bankrupted in 2006 after his business collapsed following period of wrongful imprisonment on fraud charges that were overturned by the Court of Appeal in 2004.

Starling spent family holidays with one of his victims, Martin Pilkington. His wife was the godmother to one of Pilkington's children, Southwark Crown Court heard. The prosecutor told how Starling had spent 46,000 on shopping an 42,000 on foreign holidays [File photo]

Judge Bartle told Starling: 'It was, in short, a pack of lies over a very long period of time.

'Your initial investor was like many of your investors, he was somebody who was an old friend,' added the judge, referring to Mr Pilkington.

'You said that your way of trading was cautious and that you only held the fund for a short period. All lies.'

Starling, of Bury Court, Farnham, Surrey, admitted fraud and operating a collective investment scheme without authorisation.

He was sentenced to five years for the fraud with 12 months concurrent for the unregulated investment scheme.

Mark Steward, Executive Director of Enforcement and Market Oversight at the FCA, said:

'Mr Starling was never authorised to carry on business as an investment manager or as a futures trader. His sophisticated and dishonest masquerade has caused substantial losses to innocent investors.

'The FCA is committed to ensuring that criminals who operate unauthorised investment schemes are brought to justice and our quick action here has prevented the losses from becoming much worse.'Troy Griffiths, 26, of Leeds (pictured outside court last week) has been cleared of sexually assaulting a fellow sailor

A Royal Navy seaman has been cleared of sexual assaulting a fellow sailor after being accused of making him perform a sex act on him.

Able Seaman Troy Griffiths, 26, of Leeds, who is stationed at HMS Raleigh in Cornwall, was found not guilty of one charged of sexual assault and two of disgraceful conduct at Bulford Military Court last week.

His accuser, who cannot be named for legal reasons, previously told the hearing he was getting ready for bed when Griffiths restrained him with the help of two others - not wearing any clothes.

He claimed after returning from the shower naked, the sailor put his knees on either side of his chest and tried to make him perform a sex act.

But Griffiths insisted it was 'just banter' and he would have stopped what he was doing if his colleague was not laughing with the rest of their team.

Judge Advocate Alistair Mcgrigor told the pair the touching that took place must have be deemed sexual with 'absolute certainty' to convict Griffiths.

He added: 'If you are not completely certain or have any doubts that the touching was not sexual, you must deem him not guilty.'

Griffiths previously admitted he had jumped on the sailor because everybody was laughing, but denied anything of a sexual nature took place.

Griffiths (pictured outside court at an earlier hearing last week) denied one charge of sexual assault and two counts of disgraceful conduct and was found not guilty by a military panel after two hours

Representing Griffiths, his barrister told the court: 'It is one story against the other.

'The complainant has his side of the story, but could not recall dry humping another sailor before Griffiths entered the room - there are gaps in his story.

'Able Seaman Griffiths has explained the whole story without leaving anything to the imagination. But it is one word against the other.

'So I ask whether you can really be completely certain that the allegation of sexual assault is one that can be proved with certainty.'

After two hours the panel returned not guilty verdicts on all counts and the judge informed Griffiths he was free to go.The president's top economic adviser indicated on Monday that the trade truce with China would be called off if an accord doesn't begin to 'firm up' in the next three months.

'At the end of 90 days, they have to show significant progress,' Larry Kudlow, director of the National Economic Council, reaffirmed.

The 90-day timetable started Saturday and will stave off a round of tariffs on Beijing that were scheduled to go into effect on Jan. 1, the White House said on Monday afternoon after Kudlow mistakenly claimed Trump would hold off on further action until April.

It's by March 1 that the White House has set as the deadline for the Chinese to act.

The president's top economic adviser indicated on Monday that the trade truce with China would be called off if an agreement doesn't begin to 'firm up' by a mutually agreed upon deadline of April 1

'At the end of 90 days, they have to show significant process,' Larry Kudlow, director of the National Economic Council, reaffirmed.

A statement from after a dinner between the two presidents announced a halt in the trade war for three months, with the White House stressing on Monday that it wants to see immediate action, with Kudlow telling reporters, 'They've gotta move quickly on all fronts.'

'This is not going to be something where there is soft commitments that get kicked down the road,' Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin said.

Talks with China have fallen apart at other junctures, including a round of talks led by Mnuchin earlier this year. Trump imposed $200 billion in tariffs on China as a result that he pledged to raise to $500 billion at the beginning of next year unless there's a deal.

Negotiations on the U.S. side are being led by Robert Lighthizer, the president's trade representative, Kudlow said, offering a conflicting account from Mnunchin, who'd claimed earlier in the day that Trump is in charge of talks.

'Nothing will happen without President Trump,' Kudlow explained as he spoke to reporters on the White House's front lawn.

The White House says it is cautiously optimistic after a dinner between Presidents Trump and Xi over the weekend that a deal would come out of the new push.

'The story's always been disappointing,' Kudlow admitted during a press call. 'I'm just saying the history's not been great.'

However, he said, 'I hope it has a happy ending, truly. And we have a lot of things to do.'

Kudlow assessed during the White House call on Monday afternoon, 'We never ever got close to this.'

President Trump also said Monday that U.S.-China relations 'have taken a BIG leap forward' after he and President Xi Jinping agreed on the trade truce.

Trump used the name of a Communist Party of China farm reform program that killed tens of millions of people 60 years ago.

The Great Leap Forward was a cornerstone of Chairman Mao Zedong's move toward a socialist economy by requiring farmers to 'collectivize' their property and operations, and by forcing farm workers to take industrial jobs.

Upsetting centuries of agrarian tradition and moving farmers to factory work led to a famine that killed tens of millions of Chinese. Government officials tried to reverse the trend by instituting farm production quotas, executing some who failed to meet minimum targets. China's economy was devastated.

Trump appeared to be unaware of the significance of his words on Monday, tweeting: 'My meeting in Argentina with President Xi of China was an extraordinary one. Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward! Very good things will happen.'

Trump appeared to be unaware of the significance of his words on Monday, tweeting: 'Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward! Very good things will happen'

Chairman Mao Zedong 'collectivized' China's farms in 1958 and forced agrarian people to work in factories, resulting in a massive famine

'We are dealing from great strength, but China likewise has much to gain if and when a deal is completed. Level the field!' he wrote.

Minutes later, the president specifically tied his self-congratulation to what he predicted will be a dramatic increase in farm exports from the U.S. to China.

'Farmers will be a a very BIG and FAST beneficiary of our deal with China. They intend to start purchasing agricultural product immediately. We make the finest and cleanest product in the World, and that is what China wants. Farmers, I LOVE YOU!' he tweeted.

historians' estimates of the number of Chinese killed by the famine that resulted from the Great leap Forward range from 18 million to 55 million.

Buyers and analysts quickly pointed out on Monday that China's tariffs on U.S. farm produce are still in place, mostly 25 per cent duties on soybeans, corn, sorghum and wheat.

The 'deal' appeared on Monday to be little more than a cease-fire in what had become a protracted tariff war, with Trump and Xi agreeing pull back from an all-out trade war that was threatening world economic growth and had set global investors on edge.

Under the 'Great Leap Forward,' Chinese peasants were fored to 'collectivize' and rapidly industrialize their farming, removing profit incentives and replacing a delicate system with state-imposed chaos

One result was food shortages that led to street riots in cities and mass-famine in the countryside

Trump claims U.S. operations like this North Carolina soybean farm will see more orders from China but Beijing hasn't yet lowered its tariffs

Trump and Xi Jinping met for a bilateral meeting at the G20 Summit on Saturday in Buenos Aires, Argentina

This year Trump imposed an import tax of 25 percent on $50 billion in Chinese products, then hit an additional $200 billion worth of goods with 10 percent tariffs.

Those 10 percent tariffs were scheduled to ratchet up to 25 percent on Jan. 1 if the U.S. and China failed to reach an agreement to at least postpone that move.

In Buenos Aires, Trump agreed to delay the scheduled U.S. tariff increase for 90 days while the two sides negotiate over the administration's complaints related to how Beijing systematically steals trade secrets and forces the U.S. and other foreign countries to hand over sensitive technology as the price of admission to the vast Chinese market.

In return, China agreed to buy what the White House called a 'not yet agreed upon, but very substantial' amount of U.S. products to help narrow America's gaping trade deficit with China.

A newspaper featuring a front page story about the meeting between Trump and Xi was seen on a newsstand in Beijing on Monday

Trump also boasted Monday morning that China will 'reduce and remove' tariffs on U.S.-made cars

If the Chinese did eventually increase such purchases, it would be warmly welcomed in the U.S. Farm Belt, where producers of soybeans and other crops have been hurt by Beijing's retaliatory tariffs.

Trump tweeted late Sunday that 'China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%.' There was no Chinese announcement about possible tariff cuts, and the Ministry of Commerce in Beijing didn't immediately respond to questions.

Beijing cut import duties on foreign autos to 15 percent in July but added a 25 percent penalty for U.S.-made vehicles the following month in response to Trump's tariff hikes.

Kudlow says that Xi indicated that 'large numbers of transactions' of agricultural, energy and industrial commodities would be accompanied by tariff reductions soon.

He put a ballpark estimate at $1.2 billion, although he noted they are private sector transactions.The shocking moment a man was shot multiple times after being disarmed in a bar fight with another patron has been caught on camera.

The spiraling violence took place in an unidentified bar in Mexico on Saturday, according to Flyheight, and showed the unidentified male being blasted five times.

The exchange between the men escalated after a bar-goer tried to step to and play peacemaker between the two parties.

WARNING GRAPHIC IMAGES

A gunman (red shirt) argues before he is shot multiple times at a bar on Saturday

A visitor reacts to the gunman by resting the gun away as the aggressor trips and falls

A man who was threatened by a gun wielding bar patron seizes control of the weapon during the chaotic scene, which reportedly occurred in Mexico, and fires a shot

The gun owner refuses to back down from the confrontation with a man who is seen on the video surveillance camera sitting on a bar stool next to the counter.

Once he notices the aggressor reaching for his waistband to draw the weapon, the seated man reacts by punching him twice on the side of the head.

He then manages to rest the gun away when the unidentified armed male trips and falls to the ground.

A threatened bar visitor stands over his bully before he fires the weapon five times

Shocking video shows the moment the a male is shot multiple times, reportedly in Mexico

Immediately thereafter, the bar-goer pumps one bullet at the gun-toting man who had just threatened his life, prompting other bar visitors to flee and run for cover.

After a short pause, the shooter then fires off four more shots, leaving the main aggressor unconscious on the floor.

The threatened man then goes back to the bar counter looking for what might have been a personal item and exits through the bar's front door entrance with another male companion.Stormy Daniels is keeping her planned Washington D.C. appearances on Monday night - even though they conflict with the arrival ceremony for former President George H.W. Bush at the U.S. Capitol.

Daniels will perform in two shows at the Cloakroom Gentleman's Club in downtown Washington and promote her new memoir at one of D.C.'s tonier book stores.

The former president died on Friday and will receive a state funeral.

Stormy Daniels is keeping her planned Washington D.C. appearances - despite the ceremonies surrounding former President George H.W. Bush's funeral

The remains of the former president will arrive at the U.S. Capitol on Monday evening

Daniels will be performing shortly after his remains arrive at the U.S. Capitol.

Several other organizations in D.C. have canceled events in honor of the late president. The House and Senate canceled scheduled votes so members could attend the ceremony.

'A Storm is coming back to Washington, D.C for one night only,' read the notice from Cloakroom, which sits midway between the White House and the Capitol building.

Daniels performed there in July.

'Stormy had so much fun and the crowd loved her, so she is coming back one more time,' the club said, according to the Washington Examiner.

Ticket prices for 'two heart-stopping performances' begin at $50.

Daniels claimed she had an affair with Trump in 2006. She signed a non-disclosure agreement - negotiated by the president's former personal attorney Michael Cohen - for $130,000 in hush money before the 2016 presidential election.

The porn star hired attorney Michael Avenatti to help her get out of the agreement.

Trump has denied the affair.

In August, Cohen admitted to making payments to Daniels and another woman, Karen McDougal, 'at the direction' of then-candidate Trump in violation of federal campaign finance law.

She also sued Trump for defamation for a tweet he wrote about her but a federal judge ruled it was protected free speech. The judge ordered Daniels' to pay the president's legal fees.

Several of these topics will likely come up in her book talk, when she speaks with former Washington Post writer - and D.C. society queen - Sally Quinn at the Politics and Prose bookstore to promote her memoir: 'Full Disclosure.'

Daniels will be in D.C. for two performances and to promote her new memoir

D.C. society queen Sally Quinn will be questioning the porn star

Daniels - whose real name is Stephanie Clifford - discusses her life story in her book, how she went from a dysfunctional home to becoming 'an award-winning adult film actress, writer, and director, a line of work that would eventually put her in the path of then reality TV star Donald Trump.'

Quinn said she'd be attending Daniels' strip show and the two women were connect by her astrologer.

'My astrologer, Caroline Casey - she loves Stormy - called and told me that Stormy was going to be in town for one night for the show, and did I want to go with her? And I said yes,' Quinn told Washingtonian magazine.

'Then I thought, well, if she's going to be there, I should interview her. First I called Politics and Prose and asked if they'd be interested. They said absolutely. So I called [Daniels]. So we're going to do the interview. And then she has her performances later in the evening,' she added.

Quinn said she has never met Daniels and would do so for the first time Monday night but wanted to do the interview because she thought the porn star had a fascinating story.

'I thinks she's a really interesting person - very smart, very funny. I read her book. It's hilarious. She's clever, and I think she's got a lot of insight. And she's unbelievably honest. It's a really interesting life, and I just wanted to know who she was. She's sort of a cartoon in most people's life. And when your read her book, you see she's just a real person. She's not a cartoon,' she said.

Politics and Prose is a regular stop for authors on their book tour and features many big names in the political world: Hillary Clinton stopped there on her book tour and President Barack Obama regularly shopped at the store when he lived at the White House.We can't seem to find the page you are looking for.

You may have typed the address incorrectly or you may have used an outdated link.Advertisement

George W. Bush, the 43rd president of the United States, and the former first lady, Laura Bush boarded an Air Force One plane Monday, a decade since it was their official mode of travel , for a somber flight to accompany Bush's father's remains to Washington DC.

The couple waved from the doors of the presidential plane, designated Special Air Mission 41, at Ellington Air Force Base in Houston, Monday.

The Bushes watched as the flag-covered casket of George's father, former president George H.W. Bush, was carried to the plane by a military guard to be transported to Washington DC for his state funeral. The 41st president will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda starting Monday evening.

The VC-25 is known as Air Force One when the president is on board. The Bushes' last flight as first couple was on January 10 2009, when they went to to Virginia for a ceremony to place a warship named after his father into active duty.

Ten days before leaving office, Bush took the plane to the commissioning of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier the USS George H.W. Bush, calling the vessel 'an awesome ship' that honored 'an awesome man.'

He and his father arrived on deck on Marine One and the 43rd president's return flight to Andrews Air Force Base was the last time the plane flew as Air Force One for the Bushes.

Since then they have twice flown on a VC-25 - the first time as Executive One when it took them to Midland, Texas, after Barack Obama's inauguration.

And the couple returned to Marine One in December 2013, when Barack Obama took the Bushes to Nelson Mandela's funeral in South Africa. Also on board were the Clintons, making the trip a unique moment in history.

 Slide me  Former President George W. Bush and wife Laura boarded one the presidential planes on Monday (right) for the first time since 2009 when the couple, then president and first lady, climbed the stairs for Bush's last trip in office (left), to commission the airfcraft carrier named for his father

Photos of them boarding the plane for the final trip in office show the couple giving an almost identical wave to the crowd below. Even Laura's black, high necked coat and George W. Bush's dark suit and blue tie look the similar. If not for a few extra grey hairs, and more windswept appearance, it could be the same photo.

Trump announced Saturday he was sending the plane to pick up George H.W. Bush's body.

'They're taking all of the seats out. We're sending the plane, this plane, to Houston. And it picks up the casket,' he said.

President Trump will pay respects to Bush family at Blair House, according to CNN.

With the flag-draped casket of former President George H.W. Bush aboard at Ellington Field, Special Air Mission 41 prepares to depart Houston for Joint Base Andrews

President George H.W. Bush is to lay in state and be given a funeral service at the Washington National Cathedral after flying to D.C.

The younger Bush will be eulogizing his father at the national funeral rather than the sitting President Trump.

The move is unusual, but the 43rd president has been preparing to deliver the eulogy since the Obama presidency in an acknowledgment of the unusual situation of the dead president's senior family member also being a former president.

The Bushes left Ellington Air Force Base after a brief departure ceremony for the former president's remains.

An arrival ceremony is scheduled for when they arrive at Joint Base Andrews outside Washington.

Another ceremony Monday will mark the body's arrival at the Capitol before the public can begin paying their respects at 7.30pm.

George H.W. Bush's state funeral will be held at Washington National Cathedral, with Trump in attendance, before his remains are flown back to Texas to be buried beside Barbara Bush, his wife of 73 years, who died last year, and daughter Robin, who died of leukemia aged three, in 1953.

Former President George W. Bush and former first lady Laura Bush waved boarding the presidential plane to accompany the remains of George's father back to Washington

Then President George W. Bush and wife Laura wave from outside the doors of Air Force One on his last trip while still in office on January 10, 2009A young girl stopped a thief in his tracks when she took a picture of his vehicle and reported it to authorities.

Carlos Aldolfo Moreno-Marquez, 34, was arrested and admitted to stealing packages in three different cases in Clermont, Florida.

Isabella Miller, 8, witnessed the crime and called her father, who contacted police, Lake County Sheriff's Office said.

Isabella Miller (left) helped track down Carlos Aldolfo Moreno-Marquez (right) by taking a picture of his car and telling her father who reported it to authorities

Her father then followed Marquez' car and police were able to track him down and arrest him.

Deputies posted a picture of the suspect and detailed that he had been arrested thanks to the little girl.

In the post they wrote: ' Great job by the community and deputies!. #porchpirate #grinchesgotojail#nogrinchesthischristmas #clermont'.

Isabella said she was suspicious of the man when she saw him go to her neighbor's porch and take a package.

She told FOX13: 'I saw him go up to the house, and go across the lawn. I thought he was a worker working for some place and he stole the box so i was a little scared.

'I told my mom that i saw him steal the box and told her the details and she called my dad and my dad followed the car and he took a picture of the licence plate.

Lake County Sheriff's Office issued a picture of Moreno-Marquez soon after apprehending him

They thanked Isabella Miller for her help in assisting them to catch the thief and jail him

She added: 'You just have to make sure you are paying attention to those little details'.

Meanwhile her neighbor Jennifer Lutes said that all that was in the package Marquez stole was a couple of rolls of toilet paper.

Lutes said :'She sprung into action and we are just thrilled to have a young neighbor like this next store , to say something was really applicable here

'And not only was he foiled by a young woman, but he must've gotten home and opened the box and found toilet paper'.

Moreno-Marquez can be seen in footage taking a package from a resident's doorstep

Resident Jennifer Lutes said that all that was in the package Marquez stole was a couple of rolls of toilet paper

The incident came as a study found that Miami-Fort Lauderdale ranked third among US metro areas where packages are swiped the most between Thanksgiving and New Years Day.

To gather the rankings, Safewise, a security review website, looked at 2017 FBI larceny statistics and Google Trends data for searches for 'missing package' and 'stolen package'.

Researchers also compared searches over the past year to searches during the holiday season, which was November 19 to January 6 to determine what areas are more likely to be impacted by package thieves.

Leading the list was Austin, Texas, followed by Salt Lake City, then Miami-Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta and Raleigh-Durham. Tampa-St. Petersburg came in number nine.President Donald Trump praised the 'guts' of longtime informal advisor and political trickster Roger Stone for refusing to testify against him in special counsel Robert Mueller's ongoing Russia probe.

Longtime attorney George Conway, who is married to Trump counselor Kellyanne Conway responded immediately by tweeting out the citation of a federal witness tampering statute.

Trump tweeted his praise for Stone Monday by beginning with a paraphrase.

'I will never testify against Trump.' This statement was recently made by Roger Stone, essentially stating that he will not be forced by a rogue and out of control prosecutor to make up lies and stories about 'President Trump,' the president wrote.

'Nice to know that some people still have 'guts!' the president concluded.

'Guts!' Donald Trump hailed confidant Roger Stone after he said there was 'no circumstance' in which he would testify against Trump

The tweet was conspicuous for how it sharply contrasted with his online comments about longtime lawyer Michael Cohen, who is cooperating with prosecutors. Trump called him 'weak' on Friday, and on Monday demanded he get a 'full and complete' stenece.

Trump accused Cohen of doing 'TERRIBLE' things, all 'unrelated to Trump,' saying he 'lied' and accused of of 'fraud' and said he should get a 'long prison term.'

Whreas Cohen entered into a new guilty plea on Friday, Stone, who was taking calls from Trump throughout the campaign, on Sunday told ABC's 'This Week' there was 'no circumstance in which I would testify against the president.'

President Trump tweeted about Roger Stone, Michael Cohen, and Robert Mueller on Monday

'Nice to know that some people still have "guts!"' wrote Trump

Lawyer George Conway responded by citing a section of the U.S. Code pertaining to witness tampering

MESSAGE DELIVERED: Trump earlier went after former lawyer Michael Cohen, who is cooperating with prosecutors

'I'd have to make things up, and I'm not going to do that,' Stone added. Asked if he expected a pardon from Trump  who has not taken a pardon for convicted former campaign manager Paul Manafort off the table  Stone replied: 'I've had no discussion regarding a pardon.'

Stone has said he expected to get indicted by Mueller.

'File under '18 U.S.C.  1503, 1512,' wrote Conway, retweeted Trump's tweet about Stone.

That section of the U.S. Code states that 'Whoever . . . corruptly or by threats or force, or by any threatening letter or communication, influences, obstructs, or impedes, or endeavors to influence, obstruct, or impede, the due administration of justice, shall be' guilty of an offense.

Trumps' praise for Stone came just after he tore into Cohen, whose latest plea related to holding back information about a planned Trump tower in Moscow. Discussions continued through the GOP primaries and into June 2016, he revealed.

'Michael Cohen asks judge for no Prison Time,' Trump vented on Twitter Monday morning, following his return from a trip to Argentina.

'You mean he can do all of the TERRIBLE, unrelated to Trump, things having to do with fraud, big loans, Taxis, etc., and not serve a long prison term?' The president asked.

'He makes up stories to get a GREAT & ALREADY reduced deal for himself, and get...his wife and father-in-law (who has the money?) off Scott Free. He lied for this outcome and should, in my opinion, serve a full and complete sentence,' the president added.

Trump followed up his attacks on Cohen with yet another slam on Mueller, whose investigators secured the additional guilty plea Friday and allowed him to reach the cooperation agreement.

'Bob Mueller (who is a much different man than people think) and his out of control band of Angry Democrats, dont want the truth, they only want lies. The truth is very bad for their mission!' the president wrote.Bryan Deneumostier (pictured), 34, has been sentenced to three years in prison for secretly recording and selling his sexual encounters with at least 80 men

A Florida man has been sentenced to three years in federal prison for secretly recording and selling his sexual encounters with dozens of other men while posing as a housewife and luring them into his home.

Court records show a judge imposed the sentence Monday on 34-year-old Bryan Deneumostier, a Peruvian national living in South Florida.

In September he pleaded guilty to two counts of illegal interception of oral communications charges.

Deneumostier was arrested in July for making unlawful recording of sex acts for a porn site, according to the Miami Herald.

Out of 150 men, at least 80 of them were unaware that Deneumostier was recording them.

One of the males was just 16 years old.

Deneumostier went by the user name 'susanleon33326' on a site he created called StraightBoyz.net.

Prosecutors listed three victims on an indictment related to the website, which promised videos of gay men conning straight men into have sex.

The men in the videos were blindfolded or wearing blacked-out goggles.

Out of 150 men, at least 80 of them were unaware that Deneumostier was recording them. One of the males was just 16 years old. Photos from Deneumostier's Twitter page showed him wearing wigs, makeup, pantyhose, heels and dresses as he prepared for his late-night romps

Deneumostier went by the user name 'susanleon33326' on a site he created called StraightBoyz.net. The men (pictured) in the videos were blindfolded or wearing blacked-out goggles

Photos from Deneumostier's Twitter page showed him wearing wigs, makeup, pantyhose, heels and dresses as he prepared for his late-night romps with different men.

In one photo he is seen wearing a leopard print bra and panties set with red heels and black tights.

Other photos show him wearing red lipstick and fake eyelashes.

According to the US Department of Justice, Deneumostier assisted in the operation of the subscription-based pornography website.

'The site offered for streaming approximately 619 "hook up" videos that depicted sexual activity between Deneumostier and other men,' the department said in a statement in September.

According to the agency, Deneumostier 'had surreptitiously made audio and video recordings of the sexual encounters, without the victims' knowledge or consent'.

Deneumostier faced up to 10 years in prison for the incidents. But US District Judge Cecilia Altonaga refused to impose an eight-year sentence sought out by prosecutors

Instead she gave Deneumostier (pictured) one year above the federal sentencing guidelines because she believed they were too lenient for his crime. Assistant Federal Public Defender DArsey Houlihan asked for a sentence between one and two years

Courtesy Local 10 WPLG

The department said the videos were later sold by Deneumostier to a third party located overseas and subsequently posted online.

Authorities believe Deneumostier posted ads on Craigslist seeking flings at his home while he was posing as a woman.

When the men questioned Deneumostier, who lives near the Homstead Reserve Air Base, he would assure them that he was married to someone in the Army and would never video their flings.

Deneumostier faced up to 10 years in prison for the incidents.

But US District Judge Cecilia Altonaga refused to impose an eight-year sentence sought out by prosecutors.

Instead she gave Deneumostier one year above the federal sentencing guidelines because she believed they were too lenient for his actual crime.

Assistant Federal Public Defender DArsey Houlihan asked for a sentence between one and two years, which fell within the federal sentencing guidelines.

Deneumostier's website is no longer in operation.The family of the black 21-year-old man who was horrifically shot to death by an Alabama police officer on Thanksgiving at a shopping mall has released his forensic exam that shows he was struck three times.

Emantic 'EJ' Bradford Jr was shot three times in the back of his body at Riverchase Galleria mall on November 22 just before 10pm.

One bullet entered the rear of his skull, another the back of the neck and a third in his lower back, according to the report shared in a press conference on Monday.

But Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis has announced that police bodycam footage and mall surveillance video of the incident will not be released, despite demands from city officials to do so.

Emantic Fitzgerald Bradford Jr, 21, was shot by three bullets fired by police on Thanksgiving day at Riverchase Galleria mall in Hoover, Alabama, according to a forensic report released by his family on Monday

In the conference attorney Ben Crump presented a map showing the shocking wounds Bradford suffered in the shooting and where bullets entered the rear of his skull, the back of his neck and his lower back

Bradford's mother April Pipkins puts her head in her hands as she clutches a photo of her dead son in a prior press conference

Family attorney Ben Crump said at the conference that any of the three shots could have killed Bradford.

'There is a laceration of the right side of the face at the eyebrow consistent with falling face forward on the right side of the head,' Crump said in a document provided at a news conference on Monday, according to AL.com.

'The cause of death is gunshot wound of the head. The manner of death is homicide,' he added.

He was struck from the back as if he was running away from the gunfire.

'All three of the gunshot wounds came from the back, which would suggest that EJ was moving away at the time the police fired. This is not to suggest that he was running from the police. Witnesses have verified that everybody was running from the gunshots,' Crump said, according to The Root.

At the conference he presented a map of the shocking wounds Bradford suffered in the shooting where the three bullets entered his body.

Video footage from passerby shows the Emantic Fitzgerald Bradford Jr's body laying on the ground in a pool of blood at the Riverchase Galleria in Hoover, Alabama on Thanksgiving night

Bradford's death led to a protest at the Riverchase Galleria mall where he died on Saturday November 24

Protesters took to the streets on November 24 to demand justice against the police brutality

Bradford's family hired a pathologist to perform the independent 'preliminary anatomical review', which was conducted on November 30.

Just last week Hoover City Councilor Derrick Murphy called for the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to release information and footage from the deadly shooting that took place at Riverchase Galleria on November 22, which they refused on Monday.

Civil Rights Activist Rev. Jesse Jackson opened the conference at the Rock Church in Birmingham saying: 'All we really want is one set of rules. We want the people of Hoover to know, all we want is justice...why cover up the tapes?'

Because of the graphic nature of the conference, Bradford's mother and step mother didn't attend. But his father did and spoke on his heartbreak on losing his son.

'E.J.s mother, my wife, will never have a conversation with E.J. again. But as you see from the evidence, my son was not posing a threat,' Emantic Bradford Sr said.

'If you walked up from behind on my son, you should have given a... verbal command to drop the weapon. Thats not proper police training.

'You cant explain that to me. Thats not training, thats cowardice. Youre a coward. Im telling you here on national TV, youre a coward ... You murdered my son...What you have done is destroy my family. You should not get away with this. You will not get away with this...' he added.

Bradford was the son of a Birmingham cop and a combat engineer in the U.S. Army.

He was shot dead when officers responded to reports of an active shooter at the Riverchase Galleria on November 22 just before 10pm.

He was the son of a Birmingham cop and a member of the U.S. Army

Bradford's stepmother, Cynthia Kenniebrew Bradford, shared this family photo in a post where she wrote how she was devastated to lose her son

Hoover police thought that Bradford was the gunman but later said he was not and they were mistaken. Cops said Bradford brandished a handgun moments after the shooting, which increased threat to officers.

The gunman also wounded an 18-year-old man and a 12-year-old girl.

Cops later said Bradford was involved in an argument with the gunman.

He pronounced dead at the scene at 10.11pm and the officer involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave.

A heartbreaking photograph from the scene shoes Bradford lying on the ground of the mall in a pool of his own blood.

On Thursday November 29 the real suspected gunman Erron Martez Dequan Brown, 20, was arrested by U.S. Marshals and charged with attempted murder in shooting the 18-year-old boy at the mall on Thanksgiving.A British woman whose husband was murdered by Somali pirates who then held her hostage for six months is supporting the legal appeal of the only man convicted.

Jude Tebbutt does not believe Ali Babitu Kololo, a Kenyan, received a fair trial, and claimed he has been made a scapegoat for the terrifying incident in 2011.

'I do want justice. But I don't want justice at any cost, she told BBC News. I don't want anyone sentenced and put into prison and spend seven years of his life when there is any shadow of a doubt over it.'

Ali Babitu Kololo (pictured in an undated grab from BBC News) was convicted of leading a gang of pirates to the bungalow where Jude Tebbutt and her husband, David, were staying

Mrs Tebbutt and her husband, David, were staying in the remote but luxurious Kiwayu Safari Village in Kenya when attackers burst into their hut on September 11, 2011.

They shot dead then beat Mrs Tebbutt with a rifle butt, dragged her to the beach, and took her in a boat to Somalia, where she was held in primitive conditions for more than six months.

Mr Kololo was accused of leading the attackers to the bungalow and convicted in 2012. However, Mrs Tebbutt is adamant she did not recognise Mr Kololo as one of the attackers.

'I think a wrong should be righted, she said. And when I say wrong I mean the fact that Mr Kololo didn't have a fair trial.'

'If there has been a miscarriage of justice, it needs to be investigated. If I had been murdered, David would be sat here now, because he was a really good man, and an honourable man.

'And the only honourable thing now would be to get a fair trial for Mr Kololo.'

Mr Kololo, who had no legal representation and suffered torture in jail, was sentenced to death but this was commuted to a life sentence.

That followed an investigation that saw Kenyan police aided by a team of counterterrorism detectives from the Metropolitan Police, led by Detective Sergeant Neil Hibberd.

Mrs Tebbutt said she does not recognise Mr Kololo as one of the attackers and says she is supporting his legal appeal. She is seen on BBC News tonight

Mr Kololo was convicted of murder in 2012. Pictured: Mr and Mrs Tubbutt in an undated photo

Mr Hibberd is now himself under investigation for his role in the case, and that probe is examining whether he may have committed a crime.

Mrs Tebbutt said: 'Mr Neil Hibberd said that if it was the last thing that he did he'd find David's murderer and the person who was responsible for kidnapping me.

Mrs Tubbutt pictured on the day she was freed in Somalia in March 2012

'I think they have to take ownership of what they did, and the conviction of Mr Kololo, an innocent man.

In court proceedings Mr Kololo's lawyers have Mr Hibberd withheld forensic evidence which undermined the case against him, that he misled the court by giving selective evidence.

They also said Metropolitan Police detective should not have taken part in a trial where the defendant faced the death penalty, and had been tortured.

Mr Hibberd will shortly be interviewed by the National Crime Agency in an investigation overseen by the police watchdog the IPOC, according to BBC News.

In a letter, the Metropolitan Police confirmed now-retired Mr Hibberd is being investigated to see if he may have committed a criminal offence or misconduct or gross misconduct.

Mr Hibberd's lawyers told the BBC that he intends to co-operate with the investigation.A teenager has launched a scathing attack on politicians for failing to act on climate change.

Marco Bellemo, from Melbourne, appeared on ABC's Q&A program on Monday night to declare 'climate change is killing people'.

The 17-year-old demanded to know when politicians would 'start to care about my future and children around the world'.

The student joined thousands of others school children who skipped class last week to take part in 'Strike 4 Climate Action' rallies, organising his own school's participation in the event.

Scroll down for video

Teenage school student Marco Bellemo (pictured) has slammed politicians for inaction on climate change

Marco had last week joined thousands of students who skipped school to take part in 'Strike 4 Climate Action' rallies

'I'm greatly concerned about my future and the future of children all around the world who will suffer the consequences of climate change more than anyone else,' Marco said on Q&A.

'A few days ago thousands of students from around Australia, like me, went on strike from school to demand that the government acts on climate change.

'When will the government start to care about my future and children around the world by acting on climate change and create a strong climate policy?'

Amanda Vanstone, a former Liberal senator who was on the Q&A panel, said it 'makes me sad to hear a young person say "people don't care about my future'''.

Ms Vanstone said while the two major parties disagreed when it comes to climate change 'they both have policies'.

'Emissions are coming down. Some people want them faster. But to just give the impression to young people that nobody cares I think is a bad thing,' she said.

Marco was applauded on social media for his comments on climate change

But Marco hit back, saying he was 'sad to see the political inaction on climate change'.

'I see the Liberal Party still wanting to build new coal when we should clearly be transitioning to renewable energy to help save lives,' he said.

'Climate change is killing people. It's causing so much natural disasters.'

Marco was applauded on social media for his comments on climate change.

'The hero we need right now,' comedian and television host Dan IIic tweeted.

'Young bloke is a legend. Fight for your right for a clean environment,' another tweeted, while other comments included 'Marco for PM. It appears he put more thought into this question than the Libs'.

The series of coordinated rallies were held across Australia, from the major cities to the regional centres

Thousands of students last week skipped school and took to the streets of Sydney, Melbourne and other metropolitan and regional centres demanding 'climate action now' in a series of coordinated rallies.

The series of rallies were inspired by Greta Thunberg, a teenager who went on strike ahead of Sweden's national election.

She demanded the country's leader address climate change back in September.Advertisement

Britain is set to be hit by a cold snap with temperatures plunging to as low as -8C this week, with widespread frost and snow on the way, according to forecasters.

The Met Office has put in place a yellow weather warning for ice in northern England and Scotland, and offered guidance to drivers about possible 'hazardous' conditions tomorrow morning.

The remnants of Storm Etienne are heading across the Atlantic at the moment and is set to bring heavy rain and two inches of snow will accumulate in certain parts of northern England and Wales by Tuesday night.

Certain parts of the country are set to be hit with between two and five centimetres of snow in areas of the UK such as Snowdonia and the Lake District

The peaks of the Pennines are expected to see some snow as is Snowdonia in North Wales, the Peak District and parts of the Southern Uplands in Scotland.

Temperatures overnight will plunge as low as -6C (21.1F) and drivers have been warned to expect difficult conditions.

However, as the day progresses there will be widespread sunshine in many parts of the UK.

But temperatures will still be very chilly in Scotland with certain parts of the country getting down to -8C (17.6F) on Tuesday evening.

Met Office forecaster Aidan McGivern said: 'Frost and ice will start us off on Tuesday, any cloud and remaining showers across southern and eastern areas disappear through Monday evening.

'And then during the hours of darkness many places clear but there will still be further showers coming into north Wales, north west England and more especially after midnight into northern and western Scotland, with snow over the hills.

'And at lower levels where the showers come and go and the temperatures plummet, well we could see some icy patches across western Scotland first thing (Tuesday morning).

There will be widespread frost and snow will hit certain parts the country. A lot of the country will also see heavy rain from the remnants of Storm Etienne making its way across the Atlantic at the moment

'Slippery surfaces about if you are tackling some of the roads and pavements during Tuesday morning, watch out for those, an ice warning is in force.

'Widespread frost for many on Tuesday morning but widespread sunshine as well.

'We keep the sunshine going across eastern Scotland and eastern England throughout Tuesday.

'Further showers into western Scotland, cold in the north and east, meanwhile cloud and some rain push into the south-west.

As the cold weather pushes into Wednesday we will likely see some snow at the tops of Snowdonia and parts of the Peak District.'

From Wednesday to Friday the weather will remain unsettled and Friday is expected to be very windy, with a possibility of gale force winds.An Indiana college student is speak out after a man who had sex with her while pretending to be her boyfriend was aquitted of rape and had the charge expunged from his record.

Abigail Finney, 20, spoke with Buzzfeed about the incident, and her shock when she realized that the man she considered her rapist, Donald Grant Ward, would not face any penalty for his actions.

'I was like, "I feel violated. This feels wrong. But I dont know if its illegal,"' she recalled writing in texts to her friends that night.

Loophole: Abigail Finney (left) filed as police report after she had sex with a man who pretended to be her boyfriend in February 2017 (accused rapist Donald Grand Ward on right)

It turns out that what the man had done was illegal because Finney had allowed the sex believing that she was having intercourse with her boyfriend.

And that man later told police that he knew Finney thought it was her boyfriend, and that was why she allowed him to have sexual intercourse.

Finney said that she fell asleep one night in her boyfriend's dorm room and awoke to a man she assumed to be her partner groping her from behind.

After a bit more foreplay she and the man began having sex, with Finney at no point seeing his face.

She stopped the intercoiurse after a minute and was shocked when she returned to the bed from the bathroom to find her boyfriend's friend in the bed.

'I remember him grinning at me. It was a freaky image,' said Finney.

'I was just kind of - I was frantic. I didnt know what was going on.'

In February, after two days of testimony and just a few hours of deliberation, the man was acquitted and later the charge was expunged from his record.

This is not unique to indiana either, with close to 40 states not defining consent in their rape laws and only a handful states of Puerto Rico having rape by fraud laws.

Finney also admits how difficult it was at first to grapple with the reality of the situation, and how her boyfriend helped to confirm what had just happened.

'So then I knew it happened,' said Finney.

'I was pretty sure, but I think you kind of doubt yourself when something this out of - I dont know how to explain it. It was like something you wouldnt imagine happening.'

She had a good feeling however by the end of the trial this February, and fely fairly certain prosecutors would get a conviction.

Instead, Ward was acquitted on all charges.

'I was pretty angry. I felt like Id wasted a year of my life because I couldve been trying to heal, but instead I was reopening the wound over and over again,' said Finney.

'My therapist even called the trial a second trauma, so I guess I felt like I had done all that for no reason.'

Finney meanwhile had to take time off school and began suffering anxiety and nightmares.

She also said she had to disconnect when the Brett Kavanaugh hearings began at the risk of once more reopening the wound.Supermarkets are now being pressured to ban reusable plastic bags after they scrapped single-use carriers just months ago.

Coles and Woolworths dropped single-use plastic bags in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia in the middle of this year.

The stores instead offered thicker, reusable bags costing 15 cents each.

Environmentalists now want the retailers to remove plastic bags altogether as many of them end up as litter or in landfill.

Woolworths' sale growth had slowed down since they banned single-use plastic bags

'Let's finish the job by introducing bag-ban legislation and governments and retailers getting rid of these flimsy reusable thicker bags,' environmental group Boomerang Alliance director Jeff Angel told the Herald Sun.

Mr Angel said 'plenty of strong reusable bag types' should be used instead of plastic, such as canvas carriers.

Woolworths head of sustainability Adrian Cullen said shoppers were happy to use the thicker plastic bags, and were also purchasing canvas bags for $1.

'Together with customers we've taken more than 700 million single-use plastic bags out of circulation since June which is great for our waterways and marine life,' he said.

Greenpeace campaigner Zoe Deans said people needed to stop being dependent on plastic bags.

'While reusable plastic bags are much better than the single-use option, we still have concerns about how many of these are being handed out and whether or not people do indeed reuse them,' she said.

Environmentalists said 'plenty of strong reusable bag types' should be used instead of plastic, such as canvas carriers (stock image)

A Coles spokeswoman said they intended to continue to offer new, reusable plastic bags for sale to provide for 'customers who forget to bring their bags from home'.

Coles and Woolworths' decision to stop offering single-use disposable plastic bags mid-way through the year was initially met with swift public backlash.

But three months on the radical change has translated to an 80 per cent drop in the consumption of plastic bags nationwide, according to the National Retail Association.

'Indeed, some retailers are reporting reduction rates as high as 90 per cent,' the NRA's David Stout said.Algiers, December 3, 2018 (SPS)  The two parties to Western Sahara conflict, Morocco and the Polisario Front will resume talks on Wednesday in Geneva (Switzerland), under the auspices of the UN Special Envoy to Western Sahara Horst Koehler. The two parties will meet to discuss the UN settlement process and make the assessment of the situation since the negotiations interrupted in 2012.



For the first time since Manhasset negotiations failed in 2012, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita will sit face to face with Khatri Addouh, leader of the Sahrawi delegation to Geneva negotiations, in presence of Horst Koehler, who said that his mission to put an end to the 43 year old conflict.



The negotiations, to which Algeria and Mauritania will take part as neighboring states, will also see the participation of Sahrawi coordinator with UN Mission for Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) M'hamed Khaddad, Sahrawi representative to the UN Sidi Mohamed Omar, as well as General Secretary of National Sahrawi Womens Union Fatima El Mahdi and adviser to Polisario Front National Secretariat Mohamed Ali Zerouali.



Morocco also unveiled the members the official delegation, planned to take part in Geneva talks. According to the Moroccan press, the delegation will chaired by Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, who will be accompanied by the Head of General Directorate for Studies and Documentation (DGED - external intelligence agency), Mohamed Yassine Mansouri.



Organized at the initiative of UN Special Envoy for Western Sahara Horst Koehler, the two day Geneva talks (on 5 -6 December) is intended to speed up the resumption of direct talks between the parties to conflict, the Polisario Front and Morocco.



In its resolutions notably that adopted in April 2018 (2414), the UN called on the two parties to "resume the talks without preconditions and in good faith."



While inviting the conflicting parties, Kohler said that the "main objective" of these talks was "discussing the coming stages likely to relaunch the political process, besides the assessment of the progress recorded since the interruption of Manhasset process in 2012."



In this regard, the Polisario Front has always affirmed readiness to resume the talks with Morocco, under the aegis of UN without preconditions. (SPS)



062/SPS/APSMeryl Streep has warned that people should be afraid because President Trump's children are 'in jeopardy' and he may be willing do 'anything' to get them out of trouble.

The acclaimed 69-year-old actress was speaking at the Montclair Film Festival's 'An Evening with Stephen Colbert' event which is put on by the Late Show host.

Streep was introduced by Colbert by way of Trump's characterization of her as 'one of the most overrated actresses in Hollywood.'

The actress says she empathizes with Trump, whose children are in the public eye and likely caught up in the cross hairs of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into the Russian government's efforts to interfere with the 2016 presidential election.

Meryl Streep took the stage at Stephen Colbert's fundraiser in New Jersey Saturday night

Streep said people should be afraid as President Trump's children (Ivanka and Don Jr.) are caught in the cross hairs of the Mueller investigation. She says if they are in trouble he will do anything to get them out of it

'I'm scared by [Trump]. By his possibility. I empathize with him. I can't imagine what his 3am is like. There is a gathering storm. Everybody feels it. He feels it. His children are in jeopardy and I feel that. I think, what if my children were jeopardy? I would do anything. Anything! To get them out of trouble. So we should be afraid,' Streep said on stage.

Streep has four children with sculptor Don Gummer.

Both Ivanka and Don Jr. are wrapped in the Mueller probe.

In just one thread of the probe it was revealed last week that Ivanka Trump recommended the architect for the failed Trump Tower Moscow project in an email to Michael Cohen, it has been revealed.

Cohen copied Ivanka and Don Trump Jr on emails about the project in late 2015, and Ivanka replied suggesting an architect for the building, according to a person close to the Trump Organization.

Colbert's event is the Montclair Film Festival's 'An Evening with Stephen Colbert'

Ivanka was also due to have a spa inside the building branded with her name, according to documents linked to the project.

The Trump Organization previously turned over the emails to congressional committees, but their existence became public with renewed scrutiny on the planned luxury development in Russia following Cohen's surprise guilty plea.

On Thursday, Cohen, the president's former personal attorney confessed that he had lied to Congress when he said that the plans for Trump Tower Moscow had fallen through in January of 2016 - they had actually fallen through in June of that year.President Donald Trump is preparing a take two when it comes to his campaign promise to upgrade the nation's infrastructure after his first effort failed when even members of his own party couldn't support it.

The administration will make another push for a $1 trillion upgrade of the nation's road, rail and energy infrastructure but in a way designed to appeal to Democrats and their leader, Nancy Pelosi.

Typically, infrastructure is an issue both parties can agree on but the issue got pushed aside last year over a failed Republican attempt to appeal Obamacare and a successful attempt by the GOP to pass a package of tax cuts.

President Donald Trump is preparing a take two when it comes to his campaign promise to upgrade the nation's infrastructure

His new plan is designed to appeal to House Democrats and their leader Nancy Pelosi

There was an attempt to pass a package - but it required cities and states to come up with at least 80 percent of the funding for infrastructure projects.

Democrats rejected that idea and even Trump's fellow Republicans couldn't back such a plan.

But a new attempt will include a lot more federal cash, the Wall Street Journal reports, which makes it more likely to appeal to Democrats in the House of Representatives, who will control that chamber next year.

And even Republicans have signaled they're open to the plan.

'There has to be real money, real investment,' Democratic Rep. Peter DeFazio (D., Ore.), who is in line to lead the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee next year, told the Journal. 'It needs to be done soon.'

A source close to the president told the Journal that Trump was prepared to spend 'buckets of money' on an infrastructure plan as finishes out his first term and prepares for a re-election run.

That would give Trump a 'win' to tout on the campaign trail, something that would appeal to a president who loves to make deals.

But there are no guarantees.

Previously the president tried to tie funding for a Democratic priority - a new bridge and tunnel for the Hudson River between New York City and New Jersey - to funding for his border wall, which did not go over well with Democrats.

But there will be legislation or deal making going on in Washington this week, as the government goes on pause to honor the late President George H.W. Bush.

The former president will be honored Monday evening with a ceremony welcoming him to the Capitol. He will lie in state there until his funeral at the National Cathedral on Wednesday.

The president's meeting with Democratic congressional leaders Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer, scheduled for Tuesday, has been postponed, Fox News reported, out of respect for the former president.

The House of Representatives have called off all votes for this week.

The Senate will not vote until Wednesday and that will be one procedural vote that will allow the upper chamber to start to run out the 30 hour clock before they can hold a final vote on a judicial nomination.

But there will be no action this week as the government takes a pause to honor the late President George H.W. Bush, whose remains arrived in the Capitol on Monday

Workers prepare the Lincoln catafalque before the arrival of the casket of former President George H. W. Bush in the Capitol Rotunda

Funding for a portion of the government runs out on Friday, but Congress is expected to pass at two-week extension by voice vote, which does not require a formal vote in each chamber.

Trump has expressed his willingness to sign such an extension.

That would fund the government until a few days before Christmas.

Even the lighting of the Capitol Hill Christmas tree will be delayed a day. Originally scheduled for Wednesday evening, it was moved until Thursday.

It will be Speaker Paul Ryan's last time lighting the tree.Michelle Obama revealed the Queen branded royal protocol 'rubbish' during a visit to Windsor Castle.

The former First Lady said she was panicking about following the rules of behaviour when the Queen collected her and Barack Obama from their helicopter during their last visit of his presidency.

Speaking to author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie about her autobiography Becoming at Southbank Centre's Royal Festival Hall, Mrs Obama also recalled the controversy she caused when she touched the Queen on the back during another visit.

She said: 'I touched her. After all those protocol lessons, I was human.'

Michelle Obama told an audience she hopes to 'change the mindset of men' to boost girls' education when she spoke at the Southbank Centre on Monday evening

Becoming, released last month, tells of her personal journey to becoming First Lady and her time in the White House

Michelle Obama returns to secondary she visited as First Lady nine years ago Michelle Obama enjoyed an emotional return to a north London secondary school she credits with inspiring her to get involved in educational reform. The former First Lady said she was 'moved, touched and inspired' by her meetings with hundreds of youngsters at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in Islington yesterday. She said: 'On a personal level I was moved and touched and inspired as I always am by the young people I meet around the world. 'It gives me a level of focus and determination when I get to see you all up close. 'And as I said then, you remind me of me and all the fears and all the challenges that you face. 'You give me a sense of comfort as being First Lady wasn't the easiest job in the world but I got strength from you so thank you all for that, thanks for giving me that.' Mrs Obama also encouraged the pupils to practise supporting each other. She told them: 'We as women don't have the luxury of tearing each other down, there are enough barriers out there. 'There are enough people out there ready to tear us down, our job is to lift each other up so we have to start practising now. 'There is no room for mean girls and cliques and social complications that naturally come at your age. I want you to be mindful of that.' The relationship between Obama and the school was further heightened when a return visit in 2011 saw her invite pupils to hear her speak at Oxford University. The following year, Mrs Obama invited a dozen of the schoolgirls to visit her at the White House in Washington. Advertisement

The interview was part of the former First Lady's book tour Becoming: An Evening with Michelle Obama.

More than 40,000 people had reportedly tried to get tickets online when the event went on sale, but just 2,700 were lucky enough to attend the event.

Those in the audience included actor Riz Ahmed, actress Michaela Coel, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan and 300 school children from secondary schools across the UK.

Recalling another time she broke protocol, Mrs Obama said: 'This is just how it feels to be at these high levels where people are talking protocol to protocol, that is how these big foreign exchanges are.

'People are talking to other people and then you're briefed and you're told "this is going to happen and don't stand there and don't touch there and this is precisely what is going on".

'This was on our last visit and we went to Windsor Castle and we took Marine One, the helicopter, and we landed in a field and we were going to be driven by the Queen and picked up in the car.

'Our Secret Service doesn't even let me ride around with Malia so up until that point we had never driven in a car driven by anyone else, so it was like 'this is what's going to happen, you're going to get out and sit here and this is what is going to happen'.

'Of course your head is spinning because first of all I'm trying not to fall, which is a major thing that I think about in public. If you're thinking about my thoughts when I come out on stage it's 'don't' fall'.

'One of my primary goals for the eight years was to never become a meme.

'So I had all this protocol buzzing in my head and I was like 'don't trip down the stairs and don't touch anybody, whatever you do' and so the Queen says 'just get in, sit wherever' and she's telling you one thing and you're remembering protocol and she says 'Oh it's all rubbish, just get in'.

Mrs Obama added that her husband had always had a great affection for the Queen, saying: 'Barack is so incredibly fond of Her Majesty and I won't go into his fangirling but I think it's because she does remind him of his grandmother Toot, she's smart and funny and honest. He is a huge fan for sure.'

Mrs Obama recalled the controversy she caused when she touched the Queen on the back during another visit (pictured)

The then-First Lady put her arm around the Queen at the reception at Buckingham Palace in 2009

Mrs Obama added that her husband had always had a great affection for the Queen (pictured together in 2011)

The former First Lady sat down with Nigerian novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie at the Royal Festival Hall in London to discuss her bestselling memoir Becoming

Former schoolgirl meets Michelle Obama for the second time A former London schoolgirl who first met Michelle Obama in 2009 has now revealed how meeting the then-First Lady had a profound impact on her life. Letrishka Anthony was 16 when Mrs Obama first visited Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School and is one of the school's alumni to join her on a visit to the campus nine years later. Ms Anthony, 25, is now a senior analyst at a business intelligence company and said it was 'amazing' to meet the former First Lady again. Advertisement

The former First Lady also told her audience she is bidding to 'change the mindset of men' to boost girls' education.

Mrs Obama, who has already sold more than two million copies of the book, revealed how she longs to change the mindset of men who don't think it is a 'good investment' to send girls to school.

In a series of tweets posted by the Southbank Centre, she said: 'My parents saw this flame in me.

'To have that flame lit in a girl means that you have to value her voice.

'I want to change the mindset of men and of people around the world, who think that is not a good investment to send their daughters to school.'

Mrs Obama also detailed how chapter 17 of the memoir, which details her personal journey to becoming First Lady, was the most difficult for her to write.

She said: 'Chapter 17 was the hardest chapter to write because what happens to successful black women is that we become a caricature.

'We are demonised. We are angry, we are too loud, we are too everything.'

She told an audience of 2,700 people: 'I want to change the mindset of men and of people around the world, who think that is not a good investment to send their daughters to school'

Mrs Obama also told gave her audience an insight into her relationship with former US president Barack Obama

Throughout her conversation with Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Mrs Obama also discussed how change in society 'happens over time.'

She said: 'Change is not a straight line if you look over the history of America. The voting rights act is not as old as I am.

'We mistakenly thought that Barack Obama was suddenly going to erase 100 years of history in eight years.'

Mrs Obama also told gave her audience an insight into her relationship with the former US president.

'[Barack] doesn't play games, fellas. It's a very attractive quality,' she said, according to Penguin Books UK.

The interview was part of the former First Lady's lengthy book tour - Becoming: An Evening with Michelle Obama

She also told her audience that marriage is 'just as important' as any career.

The mother-of-two even alluded to a 'healthy rivalry' between her and her husband when it came their books.

She said: 'He's a little jealous that I'm done. He's very proud but his book is hanging over his head right now.

'But, yes, we have a healthy rivalry, it's all about love.

'He is truly the writer, I'm more the storyteller. I want a book to read like a story for, particularly young people, to get lost in.'

She recently cancelled book tour visits to Paris and Berlin so she could attend the funeral of former president George H.W. Bush, who died on Friday

Earlier on Monday, Mrs Obama enjoyed an emotional return to a north London secondary school she credits with inspiring her to get involved in educational reform

Around 55,000 people are reported to have tried to get tickets for Mrs Obama's audience

During the event, for which 55,000 people reportedly attempted to get tickets in a second burst of 'Obamamania', Mrs Obama relayed a heartfelt message to women of colour.

Mrs Obama recently cancelled book tour visits to Paris and Berlin so she could attend the funeral of former president George H.W. Bush, who died on Friday.

Attendees have since taken to Twitter to praise Mrs Obama's 'wise words.'

Cheryl Moskowitz said: 'This was a phenomenon. I was glad to be present [at the Southbank Centre].

'Thank you Michelle Obama for your warmth, your wise words and above all for your humanness. Phenomenal.'

Earlier on Monday, Mrs Obama enjoyed an emotional return to a north London secondary school she credits with inspiring her to get involved in educational reform

Laura Griffiths said: 'Great to be in the audience for Michelle Obama and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie at the Southbank Centre this evening.

'A phenomenal, inspirational set of women and a brilliant event all round.'

Earlier on Monday, Mrs Obama enjoyed an emotional return to a north London secondary school she credits with inspiring her to get involved in educational reform.

The former First Lady said she was 'moved, touched and inspired' by her meetings with hundreds of youngsters at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in Islington.

The former First Lady said she was 'moved, touched and inspired' by her meetings with hundreds of youngsters at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in Islington

Mrs Obama was visiting the school as part of a publicity tour for her bestselling memoir titled Becoming

In Becoming, she detailed the profound impact her visit to the comprehensive secondary school had on her nine years ago - a time when it had 900 refugee pupils, with 55 languages spoken between them.

Speaking today, she said: 'Meeting the girls here and the girls at Mulberry reminded me how much courage and talent and hope there is.'

She added: 'On a personal level I was moved and touched and inspired as I always am by the young people I meet around the world.

'It gives me a level of focus and determination when I get to see you all up close.

Michelle Obama spoke at the event alongside executive headteacher Jo Dibb (left) and Nusrath Hassan (right)

She greeted students at the all-girls secondary school as she made her way to and from the stage

Her memoir Becoming is now the best selling book in the US of 2018 according to figures released by Penguin Random House

'And as I said then, you remind me of me and all the fears and all the challenges that you face.

'You give me a sense of comfort as being First Lady wasn't the easiest job in the world but I got strength from you so thank you all for that, thanks for giving me that.'

Mrs Obama also encouraged the pupils to practise supporting each other.

She told them: 'We as women don't have the luxury of tearing each other down, there are enough barriers out there.

Mrs Obama mingles with young girls from the school, which has students from many different backgrounds and nationalities

Becoming sold more than two million copies in North America within the first 15 days of release

Michelle Obama speaks to Ms Dibb (left) and Ms Hassan (right) during the Penguin Talks event

'There are enough people out there ready to tear us down, our job is to lift each other up so we have to start practising now.

'There is no room for mean girls and cliques and social complications that naturally come at your age. I want you to be mindful of that.'

She added: 'That is one thing we can do better as women, we can take better care of each other.'

The relationship between Mrs Obama and the school was further heightened when a return visit in 2011 saw her invite pupils to hear her speak at Oxford University.

The former First Lady, flanked by security guards, is presented a bouquet of flowers from one pupil

Mrs Obama was joined by former pupils Winnie Mac and Letrishka Anthony from Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School and Nusrath Hassan, a former pupil of Mulberry School

In her memoir, she detailed the profound impact her visit to the comprehensive secondary school had on her nine years ago

The following year, Mrs Obama invited a dozen of the schoolgirls to visit her at the White House in Washington.

Students spoke of the huge confidence boost the encounter gave them as Mrs Obama encouraged the girls to follow their dreams and to 'stay hopeful and keep working, despite their lack of privilege'.

Today, Mrs Obama spoke about ways diversity in the top universities can be improved, saying: 'Part of what we have to do is expose them to the opportunities. All kids can only dream things that are known to them.

The former First Lady smiled and clapped her hands as she was welcomed onto a stage at the school

Motivational: Mrs Obama invited them to spend a day with her when she spoke at Oxford University in 2011

'If they don't see elite colleges, if they don't know they exist, they don't know what to dream of.'

Referring to the trip she took to Oxford University with 37 EGA pupils in 2011, she said: 'This is why our visit to Oxford was so important.

'Colleges and universities have to start doing the work reaching out to kids very young... we have to start working on that pipeline much earlier.

'We can't wait until we have two years out from college. We need to start talking to them early - that includes not just conversations but visits, what is it like in a dormitory, to sit in a lecture?'

The First Lady, a graduate of Harvard Law School, pictured hugging students at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Language College in 2009 is hoping to inspire another group of students with a visit to the Mulberry School in east LondonA Pennsylvania woman who killed her much smaller boyfriend by crushing him to death has pleaded guilty to third degree murder.

Windi Thomas, 44, avoided a potentially longer prison sentence and other charges of assault and endangerment, for the murder of Keeno Butler, also 44, at their home in Eerie, Pennsylvania, in March of this year, according to GoErie.com.

'It's a good result based upon the facts of the case,' Thomas' court-appointed attorney, Mark Del Duca, told GoErie. 'I think it's fair for both sides.'

Windi Thomas, 44, pleaded guilty to 3rd degree murder in the suffocation death of her boyfriend

Her recommended sentence drops from 20 to 40 years in prison down to 18 to 36 years, as a result of the deal.

At the time of the murder, Thomas allegedly told police that she had been drinking and looking to purchase crack cocaine, Erie News Now reported.

It was then she got into the altercation with Keeno.

Thomas, weighing over 300 pounds, initially attacked her 120 pound boyfriend with a knife, stabbing him in the hand, before bludgeoning him with a table leg. It was then she smothered her victim by sitting on his chest.

Butler's death was ruled a homicide 'caused by respiratory insufficiency secondary to blunt force trauma to the neck and thoracic compression, exacerbated by blunt force trauma to the head,' according to the affidavit.

Keeno Butler died as a result of being beaten then crushed to death leaving behind a daughter and two grandchildren

Windi Thomas had a troubled relationship with Keeno according to Keeno's sister, Sandra Jean Butler

'I feel like she should have 40 or more,' the victim's sister, Sandra Jean Butler said in disagreeing with the deal. 'She deserved life.'

It was a troubled relationship, according to Sandra, in the two years that Windi and Keeno had been seeing each other.

'It was something that was going to happen,' the victim's sister told Erie News Now. 'They even stayed at my house and I asked her, 'don't kill my brother'.'

Keeno Butler is survived by a daughter, Adele Brown, two grandchildren, his mother and nine siblings including Sandra, according to his obituary in the Meadville Tribune.

Thomas is to be held in Erie County Prison to await sentencing.A black high school student from Colorado has been caught on camera punching a white student known for regularly wearing Nazi garb.

The encounter, which happened in August at the Highlands Ranch school in the town of Mountain Vista, has only just gone viral this week after a Twitter user from Baltimore posted it to his feed.

The video clip only lasts a couple of seconds but it clearly shows one student walking up to the other before delivering a right hook to the other boy's face sending him tumbling to the floor.

Two Mountain Vista High students duked it out in the schoolyard after one of them who was wearing Nazi regalia struck a pose symbolic of the Ku Klux Klan

The white student has numerous pictures of himself wearing Nazi uniforms on his Instagram

Both pupils have since been charged with crimes.

In the video, the white student, wearing a military green jacket, was doing a T-pose, a popular meme in gaming, but one that 'some people say has been used by the KKK to represent a burning cross,' Lt. Lori Bronner, Douglas County Sheriff's Office spokeswoman, said to the Denver Post.

The black student then confronted him, daring him to continue the pose, Bronner said.

In the clip, the two students are seen walking side by side in a courtyard area as dozens of others sat on tables and benches during a break.

Tensions had been brewing for some time between the students with the white student known for his provocative gestures and wearing of Nazi regalia

As the Black student appeared to walk away, he suddenly spun back around and punched the white student in the face, sending him tumbling to the ground

The incident unfolded during lunch period in August but has regained national attention after video of the fight went viral this week

The black student was then seen to suddenly punch the white student in the face.

Seconds later, the white student got up and picked up a landscaping rock which he tried to throw at the other student, but missed.

Police gave further details about the incident saying the student who threw the punch chased down the freshman in the military jacket. The black student is then alleged to have kicked him as the student lay curled up on the ground.

The white student then called the black teen a racial slur.

Security arrived soon after and broke up the fight.

Both students were suspended for a time. No comment has been made so far about the white students images on social media which contain far-right imagery

Both students were charged with harassment and disorderly conduct while the white student was charged with criminal attempted assault and the black student with assault.

There were no hate crime charges filed, however both students were suspended for a period of time.

The fight video is just the latest in a string of hate-based incidents happening inside the halls of Colorado schools.

'Incidents are up,' said Jeremy Shaver, associate regional director for the Colorado Anti-Defamation League. 'As we've seen an increase of incidents in Colorado since 2015, the percentage in schools has also increased.'

The school has said that the white student was wearing a green jacket but that it did not have any Nazi insignias on display, although students at the school say the student was known for wearing the jacket complete with Nazi regalia and regularly posting such garb on social media.

A review of the student's Instagram reveals numerous pictures of him wearing Nazi uniforms and striking provocative poses.Under fire: Mike Betts and wife Julie

A controversial company providing taxpayer-funded cars for the disabled is facing a new row over the alleged cover-up of a 2 million bonus for its boss.

The secret payout is said to have been promised to Mike Betts, the chief executive of Motability Operations, which runs a charitable scheme that supplies vehicles to wheelchair users and others in return for part of their benefits.

Mr Betts, who lives in a 5 million riverside apartment overlooking London's Tower Bridge, earns 1.7 million a year  11 times more than Prime Minister Theresa May.

But in a dramatic new development, the Mail has been told Mr Betts, 56, is in line for an additional 'loyalty' bonanza of 2 million  more than doubling his already-bloated annual takings.

Insiders say it was agreed five years ago, but has not come to light until now. It is thought Mr Betts is entitled to the vast sum  which is not related to his pension  in the 'near future'.

Motability last night declined to say if Mr Betts had been awarded a 2million bonus, but denied concealing details of its executives' pay.

The revelation comes after the Mail exposed a scandal at the heart of the Motability charity, which was set up in 1977 to help disabled people get around by leasing a car, scooter or powered wheelchair.

In February, this newspaper revealed how Motability, which gets all its money indirectly from the public purse, is hoarding 2.4 billion of public funds  enough to pay for seven new hospitals or 30 new schools.

The then work and pensions secretary, Esther McVey, ordered three inquiries as a result of the Mail's revelations, including one by the National Audit Office (NAO).

Last night former Labour minister Frank Field, chairman of the Commons work and pensions select committee which also investigated Motability, expressed anger over the new revelations.

'The idea that Mr Betts deserves a 2 million bonus as well as 1.7 million a year defies belief and raises further serious questions about how Motability is run,' he said.

'If this information has been withheld from MPs, someone is for the high jump. I am referring this to the NAO.'

Mr Betts received a public mauling when he appeared before Mr Field's committee nine months ago. MPs branded his salary  which has increased by nearly 80 per cent in nine years  as 'grotesque'.

Mr Field lambasted him over the 'large, large, large amount of money going into your pocket', adding: 'It is an affront to the disabled  cars for the disabled is bread and butter stuff. It just needs intelligent book-keeping.'

Crucially, there was no mention of a 2 million bonus at the time.

It is believed that figure is the true value of extra cash set aside by Motability for Mr Betts in what it describes as a 'deferred bonus'. Insiders say that in reality it is a 'loyalty' payment to reward him for staying with the firm.

A 'deferred bonus' is referred to in Motability accounts  but not valued anywhere near as high as 2 million.

The company says its 2.4 billion 'reserves' are needed to guard against business risks, such as changes in the value of the pound and car prices.

But MPs disputed claims that its boardroom pay was on a par with bosses of FTSE 250 companies, arguing its monopoly of government money for disabled drivers made it a risk-free enterprise.

In response to the Mail's investigation, Motability recently found a spare 500 million for disabled drivers.

A source close to Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd said: 'It is not right for obscene salaries to be paid using money made on the back of disability benefits.'

The source said Miss Rudd was seeking an urgent meeting with Motability chairman Lord Sterling.

The scheme was set up to help disabled people get around, and supplies more than 600,000 vehicles.

Its customers' 58-a-week mobility benefits are paid directly to the company, in return for a new vehicle.

Motability gets 2 billion a year in disabled benefits and income from the second-hand car market when vehicles are sold after three years.

It also receives 750 million-a-year tax relief which stops private competition.

The firm is owned by Barclays, Lloyds, RBS and HSBC and borrows from them to buy new cars for its fleet.

A Motability spokesman said 'full details' of Mr Betts' pay had been given to Mr Field's committee, adding: 'Our reporting of all executive remuneration is fully in line with the Companies Act.'

The NAO's report into Motability is due to be published on Friday.A doctor's failure to recognise and treat a serious illness led to the death of a 'beautiful and happy' 17-month-old boy.

Troy Almond had been discharged from Shoalhaven Hospital in Nowra, New South Wales, less than 24 hours before he died on March 22, 2016.

A coroner has found that the little boy's death could have been prevented if the emergency department doctor had recognised, investigated and treated his sepsis.

Scroll down for video

Troy Almond had been discharged from Nowra's Shoalhaven Hospital less than 24 hours after he died on March 22, 2016

Sepsis is a life-threatening illness caused by the body's response to an infection.

Instead of being treated, when Troy's mother Kim Macklin brought her young son into the hospital, doctor Babak Tajvidi diagnosed him with a general virus.

Dr Tajvidi recommended giving Troy paracetamol and sent home.

The small boy already had a temperature, fast heartbeat and was pale before he developed a rash on his body three hours after being discharged.

He was rushed back to hospital where he later died.

During the coronial inquest held this week deputy state coroner Teresa O'Sullivan praised Troy's parents for their 'dignity and patience.'

A coroner has found that the little boy's death could have been prevented if the emergency department doctor had recognised, investigated and treated the sepsis infection

Outside of court, Ms Macklin (pictured) told reporters Troy's death had been a 'terrible loss for all of us'

She did not offer any recommendations as the hospital has made sufficient changes to its policies since Troy's death.

Brad Scotcher, the acting director of nursing for the Illawarra and Shoalhaven Health District, told the ABC, they had put systems in place to make sure their staff are well trained to look after children who present with sepsis.

He said they will work harder to identify, manage the infection early.

Outside of court, Ms Macklin told reporters Troy's death had been a 'terrible loss for all of us'.

'Troy was a really bright beautiful happy outgoing little boy,' she said.A body has been discovered partially buried in the backyard of the Airbnb property in Costa Rica where a Miami woman vanished nearly a week ago.

Officials in Costa Rica have not confirmed that the body is that of 36-year-old Carla Stefaniak, who has not been seen or heard from since last Tuesday.

According to the countrys Justice Investigation Department, the body was found in the back of the rental property in San Jose, which Stefaniak described in a text message to her sister-in-law as being 'pretty sketchy' last Tuesday night.

Scroll down for video

Carla Stefaniak went to Costa Rica with her sister-in-law to celebrate birthday and has been missing since November 27. On Monday, police searching for Stefaniak recovered a body

The remains had been partially buried and covered with plastic bags, reported NBC6.

According to the Spanish-language news site crhoy.com, specially trained K9 dogs participating in the search for Stefaniak led police to a woman's body in the Escazu neighborhood at around noon local time.

Stefaniak traveled to Costa Rica with her sister-in-law April Burton last week to celebrate her 36th birthday and was due to fly home to Hallandale Beach alone Wednesday, the day after she dropped April off at the airport.

Carla checked into her 1pm flight, but never showed up to the airport the next morning, November 28.

Her family and friends say they have not heard from her since Tuesday at 8pm when she texted her sister-in-law from the Airbnb to say it was raining and the power was going out - a scene she described as 'sketchy'.

Now her family are on the ground in Costa Rica, working with local authorities and questioning any witnesses as they believe Carla has been kidnapped.

Her sister-in-law April Burton (left, pictured together in Costa Rica) took a flight home the day before Carla (right) and they were last texting around 8pm on November 27

A spokesperson for the family said Carla, who works at a Miami insurance agency, dropped her sister-in-law off at the airport in San Jose on November 27 and returned the rental car.

She then took an Uber to an Airbnb about 30 minutes from the airport. It was the same Uber that drove Carla sightseeing and shopping for the afternoon.

According to family spokesperson Katie Gardner, Carla texted her brother's wife updates and photos throughout the afternoon until she got back to the Airbnb.

'Last time we heard from her was 11/27 around 8pm when she said it was raining crazy and power went out,' April said in an Instagram post in a desperate plea to find her sister-in-law.

'She continued with ''It's pretty sketchy here,''' April said.

April then said she texted Carla to wish her a happy birthday at midnight but received no response.

The next day, April got a call from Carla's friends saying they had wished her a happy birthday but also got no response.

That's when they discovered Carla had never boarded her flight back home.

Carla was last seen online around 9pm the night before her flight, she is pictured (left) at the airport heading to Costa Rica and (right) enjoying her vacation days before her disappearance

Carla never showed up to her 1pm flight the next day, November 28

The Stefaniak family thinks Carla was kidnapped and has traveled to Costa Rica to search for her. Pictures is Carla with her mother and two brothers

Carla's brother and April's husband Mario Caicedo has flown to Costa Rica where he's been working with law enforcement agency Organismo de Investigation Judicial to find his sister.

'She never got back online to check all these birthday wishes,' he said. 'This is one more thing telling us that she was abducted.'

The Stefaniak family say they have spoken to the Uber driver, Airbnb host and security guards who all say they saw Carla leaving the Airbnb with her luggage around 5am and getting into an unknown car.

'The Uber driver arrived around 8am to pick up Stefaniak but could not find her,' Gardner said. 'However, her family says the story does not make sense since her flight was not until that afternoon and the airport was only 30 minutes away.'

According to NBC News, Carla had a FaceTime call with a friend and mentioned that she might ask a security guard at the Airbnb to buy her water because of the storm.

She was last seen online on WhatsApp at 8.20pm before her phone died at 9pm. She has not been online or posted since.

Carla moved to Tampa from Venezuela in 2000 and then settled in Miami in 2012.Kaylie Jackson, 17, died in the crash hours after this photograph was taken of her on her way to prom in May. Her friend, who was driving, pleaded guilty to killing her on Monday

A teenage girl has pleaded guilty to killing her best friend in a horror prom night crash which happened as she sped in her Tesla at 100mph.

The 17-year-old girl, who has not been named because she is a minor and is being tried as a juvenile, admitted being responsible for her best friend Kaylie Jackson's death.

Kaylie was the only person who died when the driver lost control of her Tesla, veered into the other lane, over-corrected her mistake and caused the car to roll on its side, in Monroe, Ohio, in May this year.

Tanner Allford, Kaylie's boyfriend, was injured as was her best friend, Mitchell Foster Jr.

On Monday, Tanner spoke at the driver's court hearing to say that he still did not understand why she was driving so fast to get them to their prom at Monroe High School.

'I still, to this day, question why we were speeding. Why were we going so fast?' he said, according to WLWT-News 5.

He added that it was like 'ripping off a band aid' having to come back to court to go over the tragic day repeatedly and that while they wanted her to be held accountable, it was not because they 'hated' her.

His mother told the court that he suffered PTSD and woke up screaming, picturing Kaylie's face.

She said that when she saw the girl pull put of her driveway, her driving was so worrying that she texted her son and told him: 'She better not be driving like that.'

Kaylie's mother, Amanda Garcia, was also at the hearing.

She asked why the teenage girl and her family never got in touch with them to apologize for her mistake until now.

The girl's lawyer's lamented that she had been told not to make contact with her victims while the legal process was underway.

In court on Monday, however, she told how she missed her friends 'every day'.

Kaylie was the only person who died when the driver lost control of her Tesla, veered into the other lane, over-corrected her mistake and caused the car to roll on its side, in Monroe, Ohio, in May this year (pictured is the smashed up car)

Kaylie's boyfriend Tanner Allford was also in the car. He survived with injuries and spoke at Monday's hearing

'I miss Kaylie, Mitchell and Tanner every day, and there's not a moment when I don't think about them,' she said.

The judge said that the teenage driver had shown remorse for her actions and that many poignant statements were made.

At the end of the hearing, the girl hugged her parents at the back of the courtroom before being led out by bailiffs.

She will remain in juvenile detention custody until sentencing on December 19.

At worst, she will be held there until her 21st birthday.

Kaylie was an organ donor who saved multiple lives in her death.

Last week, her mother met some of the people who received her organs in an emotional ceremony.Tom, 17, at Ladbrokes in East Ham

East Ham, London, on a cold, wet Friday at 4.35pm. The pavements are crowded with children on their way home from school, the Muslim faithful in traditional dress coming from Friday prayers, and commuters spilling out from the Tube.

Newham is one of London's poorest areas, with more children living in poverty  almost 37,000  than any other borough.

Money is scarce, yet like crocodiles at a waterhole the High Street betting industry lurks to snap up what is to spare  and indeed what is not.

Five years ago, local councillors claimed Newham High Street North had more bookmakers than any other in the country. There were 18 in total, and 80 in the borough as a whole.

They are very much a presence today and a magnet for those who can't resist the siren call of the fixed-odds betting terminals which offer instant rewards, but in reality often cause misery because punters can lose up to 300 in a minute.

No other gaming machine has such high speeds or high stakes. Compared with the old-fashioned fruit machines, they are like a shot of crack cocaine.

Such is the capacity for addiction, and the rage sparked by sudden and heavy losses, that the Metropolitan Police have recorded hundreds of violent incidents  including assault  linked to these terminals, as well as suicides.

Which is why allowing under-age schoolchildren anywhere near them is so dangerous.

Last month, a landmark Gambling Commission report revealed the number of problem gamblers aged 11 to 16 has quadrupled in two years to 55,000.

It found that 450,000 children  one in seven of the 11-16 age group  was gambling regularly.

So just how rigorous are the betting companies in policing the age of their clients? To find out, I ventured into Newham, as well as other areas of London, with a 17-year-old named Tom.

Young for his age, he had never been in a betting shop before, nor tried to buy a drink in a pub. Both activities would be against the law because he is not yet 18.

In each betting shop, Tom would try to play the fixed-odd betting terminals (FOBTs). If he was allowed to do that unchallenged, we agreed he would then approach staff face-to-face and ask them to split a 10 or 20 note so he could gamble more.

The most startling  and disturbing  finding of our investigation is that of the three major chains that allowed him to bet, William Hill, Paddy Power and Ladbrokes Coral, it was the latter, Britain's biggest High Street betting company, that was most lax.

Shockingly, in around two-thirds  63pc  of the Ladbrokes premises our schoolboy visited, staff allowed him to play the FOBTs. In one instance, he lost 40 in five minutes.

Yet astonishingly, when confronted with our evidence, the betting industry's representative body expressed concern not that the law forbidding under-age gambling had been breached, but that our investigation had been carried out at all.

At the first stop on our investigation, Ladbrokes on High Street North, close to East Ham Tube station, one wall is lined entirely with FOBTs. Tom walks in unchallenged. He takes a seat in front of a roulette-style game and begins to play. He is soon 7.20 up, but in just five spins loses the 20 stake he started with.

Young for his age, Tom had never been in a betting shop before, nor tried to buy a drink in a pub. He is seen inside the Ladbroke's branch

Tom plays on uninterrupted, before making his presence felt to see if he is asked for ID.

'Can you change this 20 into two tens?' Tom asks the cashier. Yes, he can. And there's no demand to see Tom's ID. When we move to a second Ladbrokes on High Street North, Tom is stopped with a polite 'excuse me, can I see your ID?' from the female cashier. That is good practice, but five nights later at the Ladbrokes branch in Maddox Street, Mayfair, there is another egregious lapse.

The betting shop is almost empty, with two staff present  one of whom is on the phone  and Tom settles down to play a roulette-style FOBT.

Now, the pattern of what happens when you play these machines begins to emerge as Tom loses 10 in just one minute.

The danger for regular gamblers, and certainly children who do not have the maturity to control their impulses, is that they'll chase losses by pushing more and more money into the machines.

Tom could keep playing unchallenged, but his money got wet in the rain, and the machines won't accept his 20 notes.

A Paddy Power betting shop in East Ham that Tom visited as part of the Daily Mail investigation

A William Hill shop that was visited as part of the Daily Mail investigation into FOBTs

It's only when he approaches staff to change the notes that he is challenged for his ID and then asked to leave.

Over in Argyll Street, opposite the London Palladium, we find a large, subterranean branch of Ladbrokes. It's empty, save for two punters and two women behind the counter.

Tom strolls in and sits at a FOBT fruit machine in full view of the staff. Having won initially, he loses 40 in five minutes.

Eventually, he is approached by one of the women, but when he says he's left his ID at home she allows him to continue playing.

Over in Hackney, there is another concentration of betting shops in Dalston Junction, a ward with high levels of poverty.

At Ladbrokes on the corner of Kingsland Road and Brighton Road, two female staff are chatting, while one sweeps up. Yet again, Tom is allowed to play and soon loses 10 on a roulette machine, then wins only 2 back.

It's only when he goes to collect his winnings that a cashier says: 'You look too young.' He is asked for his ID and asked to leave. Neither his winnings nor what he lost are returned.

At two other nearby branches, Tom is spotted at once and asked to leave. But when we visit a Ladbrokes opposite King's Cross station on another evening, Tom is ignored and can play a machine.

Neither of the branches of Coral (including this one, pictured) allowed Tom to gamble

The woman behind the counter is on the phone and no one pays attention to Tom. Only when he asks for a note to be split is he asked for ID. He has already lost 10 on roulette.

Last night, a Ladbrokes spokesman said: 'We take the prevention of under-age gambling extremely seriously and have a number of robust policies and procedures in place. These include 'Think 21' age verification training.

'We continue to achieve industry-leading scores from the independent Serve Legal mystery shopping programme on under-age gambling checks. A full investigation is being carried out, including a review of the CCTV, training logs and interviewing the colleagues involved, to ensure we minimise these incidences in the future.'

During our investigation, we also visited six Paddy Power shops, two of which allowed Tom to bet.

There is a busy branch opposite the Kingsland Centre in Hackney, with many fixed-odds machines. Tom walks in and plays a Luck Of The Irish machine, which could hardly be more unsuitably named.

He is soon up 4, but then loses 10 very quickly. A member of staff obligingly splits a 20 note for him so he can play some more. No ID is asked for. Fittingly, as this takes place, a horse called Reckless Lad wins the 6pm at Dundalk.

In another branch, on the corner of Plashet Grove, he plays Luck Of The Irish again. After a few spins, 'I was down from 10 to 50p'. He is asked to leave only when he asks the staff to split a 10 note and admits he has no ID.

Of six William Hill shops we visit, one  on a corner facing King's Cross station  allows Tom to play. This despite the fact it is small and almost empty.

He is able to gamble on two machines  one is Luck Of The Irish again. The counter staff also splits his 10 note so he can play more. We are not surprised when he loses his money again.

William Hill's response? The company says it 'commissions its own independent age testing and is subject to local authority and Gambling Commission testing'.

'On all of these tests, the company scores highly compared to other age-restricted sectors.

'As recent Gambling Commission research showed, most under-age bets are private wagers or bets on fruit machines in pubs, because staff training and age verification standards in betting shops are high.'

We also visited three branches of BetFred and two of Coral, none of which allowed Tom to gamble.

In its statement to the Mail, the Association of British Bookmakers had the gall to say: 'Unless the Daily Mail was accompanied by the police or the Gambling Commission, such survey activity was potentially illegal under sections 47 to 49 of the Gambling Act 2005.'

It continued: 'As an industry we have zero tolerance of under-age gambling and invest more than 3 million each year in age verification testing, carried out by independent third-party organisations,.

'All those results are reported to, and published by the Gambling Commission. All our members work to a 'Think 21' policy.

'Any cases where there is a breach will be fully investigated.'

Yesterday, when I described our experiences, the co-founders of the charity Gambling With Lives were horrified. In a joint statement, Liz and Charles Ritchie said: 'Our son, Jack, tragically took his life due to a gambling addiction, which has deeply affected our family.

'Crucially, he started gambling on FOBTs in betting shops in Sheffield while still at school, gambling with friends in the school lunch hour, under-age and unchallenged. Much stronger action is required to end illegal under-age gambling.'

Marc Etches, CEO of charity Gamble-Aware, said: 'Whatever the circumstances, it is wrong that a child was able to enter a bookmakers' shop and gamble.'

And Lord Chadlington, the Tory peer and campaigner for safer gambling, said in reaction to the Mail's findings: 'Protecting young people is absolutely essential.

'Strict controls need to be in place, and a first step should be reducing the volume of advertising to which young people are exposed, to avoid them being encouraged to gamble from a young age.'

Those ubiquitous gambling adverts have lucrative results. Denise Coates, founder of online betting firm Bet365, last year took home a salary of 265 million. Kenny Alexander, head of GVC Holdings  owner of Ladbrokes  was paid 18.4 million.

The fixed-odds terminals in particular are a money-spinner. There are 8,406 betting shops across Great Britain, most of which have FOBTs, each generating an average of 50,000 in annual revenue.

In May, the government announced the maximum amount which could be staked on a FOBT would be slashed to 2  but not until next autumn, a delay which saw Tracey Crouch, Minister for Sport and Civil Society, resign on principle. The reduction has since been brought forward to April.

So what did our under-age gambler  who lost around 120 during his visits to the betting shops  make of his experience?

Tom says: 'While I was losing on the fixed-odds terminals, I struggled to understand what the appeal was.

'But as I started to win  and I don't mean a couple of pounds here and there, but tens and twenties  I started to become increasingly reckless, betting more and more and, crucially, continuing to bet after I had repeatedly lost.

'That's when I understood why people become addicted to betting  and to these machines in particular.'

It is a devastating message, and one that the Government, and the betting companies that rake in so many millions a year, would do well to heed.Judicial Watch Sues for Records of FBI Meetings with Clinton-DNC Law Firm, Perkins Coie in 2016

Contact: Jill Farrell, Judicial Watch, 202-646-5188

WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2018 /Standard Newswire/ -- Judicial Watch announced today that it filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit against the Department of Justice seeking records of all meetings in 2016 between former FBI General Counsel James Baker and the Perkins Coie law firm. The Clinton campaign and the Democratic National Committee (DNC) reportedly paid Fusion GPS to create the "salacious and unverified" Clinton-DNC anti-Trump dossier.

The lawsuit cites a specific media report that FBI top lawyer Baker met with Perkins Coie lawyers to discuss allegations of collusion between Donald Trump and Russia. The meeting reportedly took place weeks before the 2016 election and before the FBI secured a controversial FISA spy warrant targeting then-candidate Trump's campaign.

Judicial Watch filed the lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia after the DOJ failed to respond to an October 9, 2018, FOIA request (Judicial Watch v. U.S. Department of Justice...

Read more...The number of readers signed up to the Daily Mail's hospital volunteer drive has hit 11,000 in just three days.

More than half a million hours of invaluable support have now been pledged to the Christmas campaign since its launch on Saturday.

The response so far means that kind-hearted Mail readers have increased the NHS volunteering force, which stood at 78,000 before the weekend, by more than 10 per cent.

Starstruck new mums met pop legend Sir Cliff Richard when he paid a surprise visit to a Birmingham hospital

By last night, a total of 11,000 people had pledged a combined total of 635,400 hours over six months.

Of this number, 6,650 have pledged three hours a week while a further 4,350 opted to give a day a month to their local trust.

As the volunteer army continued to grow:

A major report by leading think-tank The King's Fund found 'overwhelming' support from NHS staff for volunteers;

The head of NHS England said soaring volunteer numbers could mean patients 'never need to be in hospital alone';

The campaign gathered cross-party support with the Liberal Democrats saying taxes were 'not the only way we can support the NHS';

The charity Helpforce praised the 'extraordinary generosity' of readers.

The Mail is asking readers to give their time to the NHS to support patients and take some of the pressure away.

It comes as a landmark report today concludes that doctors and nurses believe hospital volunteers play a vital role in improving the experience of patients and staff.

They say volunteers make a hugely important contribution relieving pressure on frontline NHS workers, the research found.

In the study, the first of its kind, experts from Britain's most respected health think-tank The King's Fund, asked healthcare professionals how they perceived volunteers working in the NHS.

They found that the overwhelming majority  90 per cent  felt volunteers improved patient experience by 'bringing human kindness' to busy hospitals.

Some 74 per cent of those surveyed  who included doctors, nurses and support staff  also said they help relieve pressure on staff.

The key findings come days after the Daily Mail launched a major volunteering drive, with more than 11,000 kind-hearted readers having already pledged their time to support the NHS.

Chris Evans and Gerri Horner have also thrown their weight behind the campaign

There are already about 78,000 volunteers in hospitals but the ageing population and increasing complexity of health needs means they are in ever greater demand.

Today's report, commissioned by the Royal Voluntary Service and Helpforce, involved nearly 300 hospital staff in England.

Two thirds of the respondents said that volunteers made a difference by providing companionship and general stimulation to patients.

Join the hospital helpforce Whatever your skills or experience, you can make a valued and lasting impact. You will join the volunteers working in hospitals or with organisations that support the NHS, such as the Royal Voluntary Service, Marie Curie, British Red Cross, and others. Join us by pledging your time in 2019 at www.hospitalhelpforce.com and clicking on the 'pledge now' box. Thank you  and welcome aboard! Advertisement

They are also important in practical roles, such as picking up medication and helping feed patients at mealtimes, which leaves pressurised doctors and nurses free to focus on medical care.

Richard Murray, director of policy at The King's Fund, said: 'We found that frontline staff clearly appreciate the human kindness volunteers bring into busy hospital life, provided they are not being used as a substitute for paid staff. We encourage NHS bosses to sit up and take note of the critical role their staff say volunteers play in enhancing patient experience.'

The authors also identified some of the challenges hospital staff face when working with volunteers, including clarity regarding the boundaries between the roles of staff and volunteers.

Some raised concerns about the potential to rely on volunteers too much in services that are increasingly under pressure. The report makes a number of recommendations to NHS trust leaders to help them maximise the impact of volunteers in their hospitals. Catherine Johnstone, chief executive of Royal Voluntary Service, said: 'We know the difference our volunteers make, from improving patient experience to allowing more time for doctors and nurses to concentrate on clinical care.

Joanna Lumley delighted Chelsea and Westminster Hospital staff, local residents and patients by participating in the hospital Open Day on June 14th, 2014

'The report highlights both opportunities and challenges which we need to embrace and tackle if we want to successfully scale up voluntary service.'

Anna Chadwick, the lead dementia nurse at Mid Cheshire Hospitals, said RVS volunteers were greatly valued by staff, patients and their families.

'The impact of volunteers giving their time to offer meaningful support to people who are unwell and often lonely and frightened, is immeasurable,' she said. 'The hospital environment can be overwhelming and a friendly face and chat can make the world of difference to a person's experience.'

Sir Tom Hughes-Hallett, founder of Helpforce, said: 'I hope this report will galvanise the executive level support necessary to create a step-change in volunteering in our NHS.'

The Mail's Christmas campaign has also been backed by The Royal College of Nursing and Unison.Female underwear and other 'items of interest' have been discovered buried at the former home of teenage mother-of-two Belinda Peisley, who vanished 20 years ago

A dress and woman's underwear have been discovered buried at the former home of a teenage mother-of-two who vanished two decades ago.

The fresh twist in the cold case murder of Belinda Peisley, 19, came on Monday during an excavation of a weatherboard property in Katoomba, west of Sydney.

'Yesterday's find is of great interest... the undergarments are consistent with Belinda's clothing size,' Detective Chief Inspector Grant Taylor said.

'We will await the results of the forensic analysis, which includes DNA testing, to determine whether new lines of inquiry can be explored.

'While we remain focused on the excavation under the house, we are renewing our appeal to the community for information that may assist our investigation.'

Forensic officers are seen digging at the mother-of-two's former home in in Katoomba, west of Sydney

The fresh twist in the cold case murder of Ms Peisley (left) came on Monday during an excavation (police seen digging right) of the weatherboard property

Investigators have identified six 'persons of interest' - of whom three were believed to know about or be involved in her death

Ms Peisley was last seen leaving Katoomba Hospital, in the Blue Mountains region, on September 26, 1988.

The mother, who had two young sons aged one and three at the time, had been suffering withdrawals from heroin and was 'out of control', a 2013 inquest heard.

Ms Peisley was reported missing by her boyfriend and mother a few days later, but it took police seven years to open an investigation into her suspected murder.

Public order and riot squad officers are involved in the three-day excavation of her former home, which was sparked by a case review earlier this year.

Public order and riot squad officers are involved in the three-day excavation of the home

A New South Wales Police detective carries evidence bags as police begin excavation work at the house

'The undergarments are consistent with Belinda's clothing size,' Detective Chief Inspector Grant Taylor said on Tuesday. Officers are pictured at the excavation site

The renewed investigation comes after her son Billy Moffett, who was aged just one when his mother went missing, spoke publicly for the first time in August.

The 2013 inquest found Ms Peisley likely died around the time of her disappearance but couldn't determine the cause or circumstances of her death.

Investigators have identified six 'persons of interest' - of whom three were believed to know about or be involved in her death.

Despite extensive police investigations and ground searches, her body has never been found.

Police took Ms Peisley (pictured) to Katoomba Hospital on the day she disappeared after she became intoxicated at a party

The public order and riot squad officers will be involved in the search of the home (pictured), which has been sparked by a case review earlier this year and a new interview process

The re-opening of the case comes after New South Wales Police said in May they would dust off around 500 investigations which had gone cold from the last 40 years

The inquest also heard her house was broken into by some of her former friends and those she knew a few days after she was believed to have died.

Jeremy Douglas and Saxon Holdorth were two of the former friends among the persons of interest, but the two maintained their innocence at the inquest.

Ms Peisley's aunt, Sharon Versace, said she was 'very, very disappointed' no charges would be laid following that hearing.

The re-opening of the case comes after New South Wales Police said in May they would dust off about 500 investigations which had gone cold from the last 40 years.

Despite extensive police investigations and ground searches, her body has never been found

Mark Wearne, father of Belinda Peisley, speaks to media during the search for her remainsA senior police officer could be charged and kicked out of the force for not arresting a convicted rapist before he had a chance to allegedly strike again.

Anthony Peter Sampieri is accused of choking a seven-year-old girl and allegedly filming himself sexually assaulting her in a toilet cubicle on November 15.

Three weeks earlier the 54-year-old was caught making an obscene phone call which should have breached his parole and put him back behind bars.

Anthony Sampieri (centre) will face more than 10 charges after he was arrested by detectives from the Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad at Maroubra Police Station on Sunday afternoon

Sampieri was released on parole in 2017 after being jailed for seven years for raping a 60-year-old woman at his Wollongong home in 2012.

Following a complaint from a woman on October 26, a senior constable picked up Sampieri and questioned him about the phone call.

He noted that the suspect appeared in a police computer system as being on parole, but chose to let him go instead of breaching his parole.

The officer from the Kograh station is now under investigation and could be charged with criminal neglect of duty, according to the Daily Telegraph.

In addition, a detective inspector the officer reported to has been moved to another station, and a sergeant is also being investigated.

Criminal neglect of duty is only punishable by a fine of up to $2,200, but would see the officer and any other charged dismissed from the police force.

The 54-year-old physically and sexually assaulted the girl in the bathroom of a Kogarah dance studio, assaulting a man and stabbing another who came to her aid, police will allege (pictured is the studio's bathroom)

The officer was reportedly 'mortified' by the situation and receiving counselling and legal support from the Police Association of NSW.

The failure to lock up Sampieri for breach of parole first came to light almost two weeks ago with police investigating what happened.

'It appears that an officer has, at best, failed to notify the parole board of the activities of Sampieri,' NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said at the time.

'And, at worst, an officer may have significantly neglected their duty... I promise the community we'll get to the bottom of it.'

Sampieri also told Community Corrections in September that he was smoking ice, which was also in breach of his parole.

'At the time, the offender was already taking part in a drug program and other professional support to manage his addiction,' a Corrective Services spokeswoman said.

'Community Corrections used their lawful discretion to not breach the offender because the drug use was self-disclosed and he was already in active treatment.'

Sampieri (left), who had been under police guard in hospital, was transferred to Maroubra Police Station just before 4pm after doctors determined he was fit to be released

Another internal police investigation revealed bungling of Sampieri's case could have stopped him from raping the woman in Wollongong.

Police were under fire for not arresting him over a series of obscene phone calls to women earlier in 2012.

They were reported to six different Wollongong and Lake Illawarra officers and no one connected the dots between them.

They then had to wait up to 12 days for call records that allowed police to trace them all to his address.

Sampieri will face Sutherland Local Court on January 23 on 11 charges over his alleged rape of the young girl in the toilets of a dance hall in Kogarah, Sydney.

Court documents reveal that he is accused of choking the girl to 'render (her) incapable of resistance, done so with intent of enabling himself to commit another indictable offence, to wit, sexual assault'.

At 7.55pm on November 15, two men confronted and attempted to detain Sampieri at the dance studio in Kogarah after concerns were raised for the girl's welfare.

The men allegedly found Sampieri naked with the girl in the toilet before a struggle ensued, resulting in one of the men being left with several stab wounds.

The alleged attacker is accused of sexually assaulting a seven-year-old girl in a dance studio bathroom

The mother of the girl was also allegedly injured by Sampieri during the melee before police and paramedics arrived.

Sampieri was taken to hospital, where he remained under police guard and in the custody of Corrective Services NSW during treatment before he was charged.

It is understood Sampieri has Hepatitis C and liver cancer.

Among the charges are sexual intercourse with a child under 10 years old, wounding or grievous bodily harm with intent, aggravated kidnapping and attempting, or assaulting with intent, to have sexual intercourse with a child under 10.

Additional charges included choking a person with an intent to commit an indictable offence, using a child under 14 to make child abuse material, aggravated act of indecency being filmed, aggravated indecent assault and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.Sully is seen above with the former President in this undated image posted on social media

Sully, George H.W. Bush's yellow Labrador service dog, is not done doing his duty for his country.

The loyal canine, who was photographed mournfully lying beside his friend's casket in Houston on Sunday, will accompany him on the plane to Washington, D.C., on Monday, CNN is reporting.

Sully was named, appropriately enough, after Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger III, the heroic pilot who successfully landed a damaged passenger jet on the Hudson River which saved the lives of 155 people in 2009.

He is a specially trained dog who is capable of following a lengthy list of commands, including answering the phone and fetching items.

'As one person said, he can do just about anything except make you a martini, but not to worry, he can go get you someone to make you a martini,' Bush family spokesperson Jim McGrath told CNN.

The Bush family has grown especially close to the dog, as evidenced by an Instagram post by former President George W. Bush.

'As much as our family is going to miss the dog, we're comforted to know he'll bring the same joy to his new home, Walter Reed, that he brought to 41,' the 43rd President wrote on Instagram.

The post was shared by the dog's Instagram account, 'sullyhwbush.'

Sully was given to the elder Bush by Americas VetDogs, a New York-based nonprofit group which provides service dogs to veterans in need.

After news broke of Bushs passing on Saturday, Americas VetDogs tweeted a statement, saying: Americas VetDogs is deeply saddened by the loss of President George H.W. Bush.

Our condolences go out to the Bush family at this time.

After news broke of Bushs passing on Saturday, Americas VetDogs tweeted a statement, saying: Americas VetDogs is deeply saddened by the loss of President George H.W. Bush. Our condolences go out to the Bush family at this time. The tweet was attached to an image showing Bush being pushed in a wheelchair while holding a leash as Sully walks beside him

Sully (seen above in this undated file photo posted to Instagram) will continue his service to America after the death of the 41st President

Americas VetDogs, an organization which pairs specially trained service dogs with wounded veterans, will return Sully to its Smithtown, New York headquarters, where he will stay for the holiday season

He is then expected to be transferred to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centers Facility Dog Program in Bethesda, where canines help wounded veterans as they undergo physical and occupational therapy

The tweet was attached to an image showing Bush being pushed in a wheelchair while holding a leash as Sully walks beside him.

Americas VetDogs told KTRK-TV that Sully will return to its Smithtown, New York headquarters, where he will stay for the holiday season.

He is then expected to be transferred to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centers Facility Dog Program in Bethesda, where canines help wounded veterans as they undergo physical and occupational therapy.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Bush family during this difficult time, said John Miller, President and CEO of America's VetDogs.

It was truly an honor to have provided service dog Sully to be by the president's side for the past several months.

As a true patriot and a visionary, President Bush will forever be viewed by people with disabilities and their families as a hero through his efforts to enact the Americans with Disabilities Act.

We are forever grateful to his service to the American people.Americans will pay homage to their 41st President over the course of the next four days.

On Monday, a departure ceremony will be held at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base in Houston at 10.30am Central time.

Bush's casket will be flown from Houston to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland.

The plane carrying Bush's coffin is scheduled to arrive at 3.30pm Eastern time, when a ceremony will be held at Andrews.

From there, the coffin will be taken to the U.S. Capitol.

The casket will lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda beginning Monday at 5pm local time until 10am on Wednesday.

A guard of honor will be in attendance, and the public will be allowed into the Capitol from 7:30pm Monday until 8.45am Wednesday.

At 10am on Wednesday, Bush's coffin will depart the U.S. Capitol, which will see him off with a ceremony.

The casket will be driven to Washington National Cathedral, where a memorial service is scheduled to begin at 11:00am.

Brian Mulroney, the former Prime Minister of Canada, is one of three people who have been chosen to deliver a eulogy, according to Global News.

After the 90-minute service, Bush's casket will be taken to Joint Base Andrews. It is scheduled to depart at 1:15pm.

Bush is expected to arrive back at Ellington Field in Houston at 4:30pm Central time.

The former President will lie in repose at St. Martin's Episcopal Church in Houston, the site of Barbara Bush's funeral in April.

On Thursday at 12:30pm Central time, Bush will be taken by locomotive train to Texas A&M University in College Station, home to the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

Bush, a lover of trains, will take his final ride in one that it fitted with a glass viewing car.

He will be buried next to his wife and daughter, Robin, at 4:15pm Central time in College Station.The Government has caved to demands to publish the full legal advice on the Brexit deal after losing an historic vote.

It means fresh details about the legal advice will be published. But this is what we know about the advice so far:Scientists are to copy the effects of a massive volcanic eruption to block the Suns rays and combat global warming.

As part of a 2.3million ($3million) experiment partly-funded by Microsofts Bill Gates, a team from Harvard University will spray tiny chalk particles into the atmosphere 12 miles above the Earth to reflect some of the Suns rays back into space.

They hope this will have a similar effect to an erupting volcano releasing sulphur dioxide. In 1991, Mount Pinatubo erupted in the Philippines, releasing 20million tons of sulphur dioxide. That cooled the planet by 0.5C for 18 months.

As part of a 2.3million ($3million) experiment partly-funded by Microsofts Bill Gates (pictured), a team from Harvard University will spray tiny chalk particles into the atmosphere

The goal is to reduce the worst effects of climate change in the hope that this could save coral reefs and polar ice sheets.

The team hopes to launch a steerable balloon over the southwest United States before next July. It will release jets of calcium carbonate: chalk dust. Scientists will measure how this affects the Suns light.

Opponents say spraying particles in such a way might damage the ozone layer and disrupt rainfall patterns, which could cause drought in some areas, according to The Times.

And they say such geo-engineering diverts attention from cutting greenhouse gas emissions.Jeff Bezos boldly predicted five years ago that drones would be carrying Amazon packages to people's doorsteps by now.

Amazon customers are still waiting. And it's unclear when, if ever, this particular order by the company's founder and CEO will arrive.

Bezos made billions of dollars by transforming the retail sector. But overcoming the regulatory hurdles and safety issues posed by drones appears to be a challenge even for the world's wealthiest man.

The result is a blown deadline on his claim to CBS' '60 Minutes' in December 2013 that drones would be making deliveries within five years.

Scroll down for video

Back in 2013, Jeff Bezos went on '60 Minutes' to share his vision of the future: Drones would be delivering Amazon packages in five years. It hasn't happened

The day may not be far off when drones will carry medicine to people in rural or remote areas, but the marketing hype around instant delivery of consumer goods looks more and more like just that - hype.

Drones have a short battery life, and privacy concerns can be a hindrance, too.

'I don't think you will see delivery of burritos or diapers in the suburbs,' says drone analyst Colin Snow.

Drone usage has grown rapidly in some industries, but mostly outside the retail sector and direct interaction with consumers.

The government estimates that about 110,000 commercial drones are operating in U.S. airspace, and the number is expected to soar to about 450,000 in 2022.

They are being used in rural areas for mining and agriculture, for inspecting power lines and pipelines, and for surveying.

Amazon says it is still pushing ahead with plans to use drones for quick deliveries, though the company is staying away from fixed timelines.

'We are committed to making our goal of delivering packages by drones in 30 minutes or less a reality,' says Amazon spokeswoman Kristen Kish.

The Seattle-based online retail giant says it has drone development centers in the United States, Austria, France, Israel and the United Kingdom.

Delivery companies have been testing the use of drones to deliver emergency supplies and to cover ground quickly in less populated areas.

By contrast, package deliveries would be concentrated in office parks and neighborhoods where there are bigger issues around safety and privacy.

Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos might have underestimated regulatory obstacles and privacy concerns when he told CBS' '60 Minutes' in December 2013 that his company would be making drone-borne deliveries within five years

In May, the Trump administration approved a three-year program for private companies and local government agencies to test drones for deliveries, inspections and other tasks.

But pilot programs by major delivery companies suggest few Americans will be greeted by package-bearing drones any time soon.

United Parcel Service tested launching a drone from a delivery truck that was covering a rural route in Florida. DHL Express, the German delivery company, tested the use of drones to deliver medicine from Tanzania to an island in Lake Victoria.

Frank Appel, the CEO of DHL's parent company, Deutsche Post AG, said 'over the next couple of years' drones will remain a niche vehicle and not widely used. He said a big obstacle is battery life.

'If you have to recharge them every other hour, then you need so many drones and you have to orchestrate that. So good luck with that,' he told The Associated Press.

Appel said human couriers have another big advantage over drones: They know where customers live and which doorbell to ring. 'To program that in IT is not that easy and not cheap,' he said.

Analysts say it will take years for the Federal Aviation Administration to write all the rules to allow widespread drone deliveries.

Snow, the CEO of Skylogic Research, says a rule permitting operators to fly drones beyond their line of sight - so critical to deliveries - is at least 10 years away.

A method will be needed to let law enforcement identify drones flying over people - federal officials are worried about their use by terrorists.

While the rules are being written, companies will rely on waivers from the FAA to keep experimenting and running small-scale pilot programs.

E-COMMERCE FIRMS ARE USING DRONES FOR DELIVERIES Delivery firms are pioneering a host of new technologies to tackle the last mile of deliveries. It is hoped the vehicles can cut the inefficiencies, and hence costs, of the final stage of delivery, in which packages are taken from a central hub to your door. Amazon envisions making last mile deliveries with an army of autonomous drones that drop packages on your doorstep. Amazon has billed the service 'Prime Air' and claims the drones will increase the overall safety and efficiency of its transport system. Amazon envisions making last mile deliveries with an army of autonomous drones (pictured) that drop packages on your doorstep. It has billed the service 'Prime Air' Just one pilot could oversee several of the drones at once, meaning the firm could someday pay fewer people to make the same number of deliveries. Another company, Starship Technologies, envisions its autonomous delivery service using land-based robots. Each six-wheeled 'ground drone' is almost completely self-driving, and is constantly connected to the internet, using GPS to find its destination. Walking on the pavement at about 4mph (3km/h), robots can complete local deliveries within five to 30 minutes from a local hub or retail outlet. Self-driving cars are another last mile option being considered by some delivery companies. Another company, Starship Technologies, envisions its autonomous delivery service using land-based robots (pictured) Supermarket operator Kroger is testing a fleet of self-driving grocery cars that can carry as many as ten bags of shopping to your door. Customers can order groceries via Kroger's website or mobile app and select same-day or next-day delivery. Customers who take advantage of Kroger's driverless grocery delivery system will still have to walk to the curb outside their house to retrieve the groceries. Advertisement

'People like DHL and the rest of them (will say), 'Hey, we can deliver via drone this parcel package to this island,' but that's not the original vision that Amazon presented,' Snow says.

There is a long list of FAA rules governing drone flights. They generally can't fly higher than 400 feet, over many federal facilities, or within five miles of an airport. Night flights are forbidden.

For the delivery business, the most biggest holdup is that the machines must remain within sight of the operator at all times.

In June, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine said the FAA's was being overly conservative in its safety standards for drones.

The group said FAA's risk-averse attitude was holding back beneficial uses, such as drones helping firefighters who are battling a fierce blaze.

Drone usage has grown rapidly in some industries, but mostly outside the retail sector and direct interaction with consumers. The government estimates that about 110,000 commercial drones are operating in U.S. airspace, and the number is expected to soar to 450,000 in 2022

Even before the criticism by the scientific panel, the FAA had begun to respond more quickly to operators' requests for waivers from some rules, says Alan Perlman, founder of the Drone Pilot Ground School in Nashville, Tennessee.

He said it is also getting easier and cheaper to buy liability insurance.

Bezos was mindful of the safety issues, telling '60 Minutes' back in 2013, 'This thing can't land on somebody's head while they're walking around their neighborhood.'

That didn't stop him from predicting that drones fed with GPS coordinates would be taking off and making deliveries in 'four, five years. I think so. It will work, and it will happen.'

To Perlman, the billionaire's optimism made perfect sense.

'When you're in his world you think more about technology than regulations, and the (drone) technology is there,' Perlman said.Advertisement

Astronauts from America, Canada and Russia successfully blasted into space this morning aboard a Soyuz rocket after a failed launch back in October.

Anne McClain, David Saint-Jacques and Oleg Kononenko launched at 06.32 ET (11.32 GMT) from the cosmodrome in Baikonur, Kazakhstan, before their spacecraft made four orbits over six hours as it chased down the space station for the docking.

Kononenko was heard telling ground control that 'everything is fine on board' shortly after the launch.

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Russia's Soyuz MS-11 spacecraft carrying the members of the International Space Station (ISS) expedition 58/59, Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, NASA astronaut Anne McClain and David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency, blasts off to the ISS from the launch pad at the Russian-leased Baikonur cosmodrome on December 3, 2018.

A full crew: Expedition 58 crew members Anne McClain of NASA (F-R), Oleg Kononenko of Roscosmos (F-C), David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency (F-L) and crew members of Expedition 57 Commander Alexander Gerst of ESA (European Space Agency) (C), NASA Flight Engineer Serena Aunon-Chancellor (R),Roscosmos Flight Engineer Sergey Prokopyev (L).

Later in the day, the hatch of the capsule carrying NASA astronaut Anne McClain, David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency and Oleg Kononenko of Russian space agency Roscosmos was opened while the station was flying over the southern coast of Yemen.

The three were greeted upon arrival Monday by the station's current crew members, who had waited outside the hatch after the astronauts' capsule docked and underwent safety checks.

It comes after Russian Aleksey Ovchinin and American Nick Hague were forced to make an emergency exit from their Soyuz rocket when a booster failed during a launch at the same site two months ago.

It marked the first in-flight launch abort of a crewed Soyuz mission since 1975. Ovchinin and Hague escaped unharmed.

The new Soyuz spacecraft entered a designated orbit just under nine minutes after launching and was due to dock at the ISS about six hours later after making four orbits of the Earth.

NASA and Roscosmos said that all on board systems were operating normally and the crew was feeling fine.

McClain, Saint-Jacques and Kononenko will spend more than six months doing research and experiments in biology, Earth science, physical sciences and technology.

On the space station, the crew of NASA's Serena Aunon-Chancellor, Russian Sergei Prokopyev and German Alexander Gerst were waiting for their arrival.

Lift-off happened at 6.31 ET (11.31 GMT) from the Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, and replaced an earlier mission which failed in October after the rocket malfunctioned

This mission passed off without a hitch despite safety concerns after the October launch, during which a booster failed

Photographers capture the moment the spacecraft left its launchpad in Kazakhstan on its way to the ISS

Kononenko, who is leading the mission, was heard telling ground control 'everything is fine on board' moments after the launch took place in Kazakhstan

The Soyuz rocket tilts over as it circles into Earth's atmosphere where it will now perform four full orbits before docking at the International Space Station

NASA and Russia's Roscosmos agency reported that everything passed off without a hitch during the launch

They are scheduled to return to Earth on December 20.

Had today's launch failed it could have left the station temporarily abandoned.

Ahead of Monday's launch a Russian Orthodox priest blessed the spaceship on its launchpad, in accordance with tradition, while the crew spoke of the dangers involved.

'Risk is part of our profession,' crew commander Oleg Kononenko told a news conference at Baikonur on Sunday, adding they 'absolutely' trusted teams preparing them for the flight.

'We are psychologically and technically prepared for blastoff and any situation which, God forbid, may occur on board,' the 54-year-old said.

Kononenko added that the crew would conduct a spacewalk on December 11 as part of an investigation into a mysterious hole that has caused an air leak on the ISS.

Anne McClain, a 39-year-old former military pilot, said the crew looked forward to going up.

'We feel very ready for it,' she said.

Anne McClain, Oleg Kononenko and David Saint-Jacques make their way from quarantine towards the Soyuz rocket which launched them into space

The trio will relieve a crew of two who are due to come back to Earth on December 20, and will carry out experiments in space

Commander Oleg Kononenko (front), from Russia, completes the crew, who will now undertake a six-month mission on board the International Space Station

The Soyuz rocket is pictured just before it disappeared from view and into orbit above Earth, where it will spend six hours circling before docking with the ISS

A timelapse photograph shows the path of the Russia rocket as it left earth's atmosphere from the Baikonur cosmodrome

The Soyuz MS-11 rocket is pictured on its launchpad minutes before taking off

Canada's Saint-Jacques, 48, described the Soyuz spacecraft as 'incredibly safe.'

The accident highlighted the 'smart design of the Soyuz and the incredible work that the search and rescue people here on the ground are ready to do every launch,' he said.

Saint-Jacques joked that he had received so much training ahead of the flight 'that I felt at the end that I could build a Soyuz in my backyard.'

Of the trio set to reach the ISS six hours after blastoff, both Saint-Jacques and McClain will fly for the first time.

Kononenko is beginning his fourth mission to add to an impressive 533 days in space.

Russia said last month the launch failed because of a sensor that was damaged during assembly at the Baikonur cosmodrome but insisted the spacecraft remained reliable.

The Soviet-designed Soyuz rocket is currently the world's only lifeline to the ISS.

Saint-Jacques will be the first Canadian astronaut to visit the space station since Chris Hadfield, who recorded a version of David Bowie's Space Oddity classic on board in 2013.

Canada's governor general and former astronaut Julie Payette is expected to be among the dignitaries to watch Monday's launch.

McClain served in Iraq and has represented the United States at women's rugby.

She has said that training to spacewalk resembled the sport since it demands 'grit, toughness, mental focus, and more.'

Russia-US cooperation in space has so far remained one of the few areas not affected by a crisis in ties between the former Cold War enemies.

But comments by the combative chief of the Russian space agency, Dmitry Rogozin, have increasingly raised eyebrows.

He recently joked Russia would send a mission to the Moon to 'verify' whether or not NASA lunar landings ever took place.

McClain said she was 'confident' about getting on board the rocket even after a failed launch back in October which saw two astronauts make an emergency landing

David Saint-Jacques became the first Canadian astronaut in space since 2013, following in the footsteps Chris Hadfield who performed David Bowie's Space Oddity aboard the ISS

Anne McClain touches hands with her mother, Charlotte Lamp, after a pre-launch press conference at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan

Oleg Kononenko touches hands with his children from within quarantine before he is taken aboard the rocket, which will launch this morning

Flight Engineer David Saint-Jacques makes a love heart with his hands at his son

RUSSIA'S SOYUZ: DECADES OF BLASTING INTO SPACE The Soyuz programme is an ongoing human spaceflight programme which was initiated by the Soviet Union in the early 1960s, originally part of a Moon landing project. There have been 138 manned missions, of which 11 have failed and one astronaut has died. Here are some of the notable failures, including one in 1967 when an astronaut was killed, one in 1975 when two astronauts hurtle to Earth. 1967: Soviet astronaut Vladimir Komarov was killed during landing due to a parachute failure 1975: Two Russian astronauts had to abort a mission to a Russian space station at an altitude of 90miles due to a rocket failure. They hurtled towards Earth and safely landed in the Altai Mountains on the Russia-China border. One of the astronauts never flew to space again, never fully recovered from the accident and died aged 62 in 1990. The other made two more flights. 1983: A rocket malfunctioned during the countdown to take off in southern Kazakhstan. Automatic systems ejected the two Russian crew-members just seconds before the rocket exploded. The fire burned on the launch pad for 20 hours. 2002: A Soyuz ship carrying a satellite crashed during launch in Russia when a booster suffered an engine malfunction. The ship landed near the launch pad, killing one engineer on the ground. 2011: A Soyuz-U mission carrying cargo failed to launch to the International Space Station when the upper stage experienced a problem and broke up over Siberia. 2016: Another cargo ship was lost shortly after launch, likely due to a problem with the third stage of the Soyuz-U. August 2018: A hole in a Soyuz capsule docked to the International Space Station caused a brief loss of air pressure and had to be patched. The Russians claimed the hole was drilled deliberately in an act of sabotage either on Earth or in orbit. Another theory is that the hole was a production defect. Advertisement

In recent years Russia's debt-laden space industry has suffered a number of mishaps including the loss of cargo spacecraft and satellites.

Astronauts on new mission dismiss safety concerns after Soyuz accident

Baikonur, Kazakhstan, Dec 2, 2018 (AFP) - Astronauts of the first manned space mission since an unprecedented accident in October on Sunday brushed aside concerns about Russia's Soyuz rocket, saying risks were part of the job.

Oleg Kononenko of the Russian space agency Roscosmos, Anne McClain of NASA and David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency will launch to the International Space Station (ISS) from Baikonur in Kazakhstan aboard a Soviet-designed Soyuz on Monday.

They will head to the ISS after a Soyuz rocket carrying Russia's Aleksey Ovchinin and US astronaut Nick Hague failed on October 11 just minutes after blast-off.

The pair escaped unharmed, but the failed launch was the first such accident in Russia's post-Soviet history and a new setback for the country's once proud space industry.

The crew heading to the ISS dismissed any possible concerns about their safety.

'Risk is part of our profession,' crew commander Oleg Kononenko told a news conference at Baikonur, adding they 'absolutely' trusted teams preparing them for the flight.

'We are psychologically and technically prepared for blast-off and any situation which, God forbid, may occur on board,' the 54-year-old said.

Kononenko added that the crew would conduct a spacewalk on December 11 as part of the investigation into a mysterious hole that has caused an air leak on the ISS.

Anne McClain, a 39-year-old former military pilot, struck a similar note.

Anne McClain is loaded into a tilting chair while Russia space crews check her suit

David Saint-Jacques has his space suit tested before being shown to the rocket

David Saint-Jacques shouts after Russian technicians finish checking his space suit

Anne McClain and David Saint-Jacques share a fist-bump as they prepare to launch into space

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A ROCKET BOOSTER FAILS? The astronauts of the Soyuz MS-10 are said to have switched into 'ballistic descent mode' once they were notified of the second stage booster fault. This means the core automatically separated from the faulty booster and turned back to Earth. The rocket came in at a much sharper angle than normal, allowing the craft to head as quickly as possible to the ground. It is believed the rocket was travelling at more than 8,000 miles per hour (12,800kph) during its descent. The astronauts would have experienced G-force pressure as high as 7Gs. Rockets use boosters to provide the thrust they need to launch from Earth and breech the atmosphere. They set the trajectory for the flight, and if they aren't running at full capacity could send the rocket in completely the wrong direction. The Soyuz MS-10 rocket had four first-stage boosters strapped to its central core, which housed the second stage booster. A booster can fail for any number of reasons, including incorrect fuelling, mechanical faults, computer glitches and more. In the event of a booster failure, mission control will normally cancel the flight to avoid endangering the astronauts on board. The rocket is put into an emergency landing procedure in which the main module - holding all cargo and any astronauts on board - separates from the rocket early. Advertisement

David Saint-Jacques of Canada, Oleg Kononenko of Russia and Anne McClain of the US leave their hotel on the way to the launch site

David Saint-Jacques smiles and waves to his son through a glass window

Anne McClain, Oleg Kononenko, and David Saint-Jacques answer questions during a pre-launch press conference

Reporters question the astronauts as they sit inside a quarantine zone in Kazakhstan

'We feel very ready for it,' she said.

Canada's Saint-Jacques added that the Soyuz spacecraft was 'incredibly safe,' noting it was 'actually reassuring' to witness the October aborted launch from Baikonur.

The accident highlighted the 'smart design of the Soyuz and the incredible work that the search and rescue people here on the ground are ready to do every launch,' the 48-year-old said.

Saint-Jacques joked that he had received so much training ahead of the flight 'that I felt at the end that I could build a Soyuz in my backyard.'

Russia said last month the launch of the Soyuz rocket failed because of a sensor that was damaged during assembly at the Baikonur cosmodrome, but officials insisted the spacecraft remains reliable.

Saint-Jacques will be the first Canadian astronaut to visit the space station since Chris Hadfield, who recorded a version of David Bowie's Space Oddity classic aboard the ISS in 2013.

Canada's governor general and former astronaut Julie Payette is expected to be among the dignitaries to watch Monday's launch.

Of the trio set to reach the ISS six hours after blastoff, both Saint-Jacques and McClain will fly for the first time. Kononenko is beginning his fourth mission to add to an impressive 533 days in space.

NASA's McClain was deployed to Iraq and has represented the United States women's national rugby union team.

She has said that training to spacewalk was similar to rugby since it demands 'grit, toughness, mental focus, and more'.The dawn of 8K resolution television has arrived as a Japanese television network broadcasts the first programmes in the format.

Japan's national public broadcasting organisation, NHK, is now sending both 4K and 8K channels via satellite to viewers.

The first film shown in 8K will be '2001: A Space Odyssey' and Stanley Kubrick's classic film was scanned by Warned Bros on 70mm film negatives to produce the high-resolution masterpiece.

8K televisions have 8,000 pixels across the screen.

This newest resolution has four times as many pixels vertically and horizontally as current top-end 4K Ultra HD screens, and 16 times more than standard 1080p HD.

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The national public broadcasting organisation in Japan, NHK, started sending both 4K and 8K channels via satellite to viewers and the first film will be 2001: A Space Odyssey (pictured)

NHK is currently the only channel pushing for the 8K medium as specialist equipment and huge price-tags puts off consumers and companies alike.

'The many famous scenes become even more vivid, with the attention to detail of director Stanley Kubrick expressed in the exquisite images, creating the feeling of really being on a trip in space, allowing the film to be enjoyed for the first time at home,' NHK said in a statement.

Audrey Hepburn's 1964 classic 'My Fair Lady' is set to be broadcast in the 8K resolution next year.

Tokyo's 2020 Olympic Games are also expected to be shown in the stunning medium.

8K remains inaccessible to many with few possessing the specialist antennae and screens to enjoy the overwhelming detail.

Sharp began selling its first Super Hi-Vision-ready TVs with a built-in tuner last month for around $6,600, Engadget reports.

Samsung recently unveiled a range of AI-powered televisions that promise to provide pictures with greater clarity than ever via 8K..

Screens range from 65" to 85" and are capable of displaying images in 8K resolution  the next frontier in ultra high definition viewing.

NHK is currently the only channel pushing for the 8K medium as specialist equipment and huge price-tags puts off consumers and companies alike. This newest resolution has four times as many pixels as 4K Ultra HD screens, and 16 times more than standard 1080p HD (pictured)Archaeologists have revealed an 18-year-old farmer called 'Ava' who died 4,250 years ago in Scotland was the daughter of European immigrants.

Experts believe this Mediterranean-looking Bronze Age woman had brown eyes, black hair, olive-coloured skin and was even lactose intolerant.

She was a member of an early Bronze Age 'beaker' community that would have farmed cattle and were skilled craftsmen.

Her bones, including skull and teeth, were first discovered in Achavanich in Caithness in 1987.

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Archaeologists have unlocked insights into a woman called 'Ava' who died thousands of years ago in the Scottish Highlands in mysterious circumstances. New analysis using genomic data by forensic artist Hew Morrison revealed what Ava's face might have looked like (pictured)

Loch Stemster in the north of mainland Scotland overlooks the Orkney archipelago to the north of the country.

According to new research led by archaeologist Maya Hoole from the Achavanich Beaker Burial Project and published in Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Ava died around 4,350 years ago as opposed to 3,700 years ago as previously thought.

The original reconstruction in 2016 suggested the 18 to 25-year-old Bronze Age woman had red hair and blue eyes.

However, new research shows she was much darker.

'The revelation that her ancestors were recent northern European migrants is exciting, especially as we know that she has no, or very few, genetic connections with the local Neolithic population who resided in Caithness before her', lead researcher Ms Hoole told BBC.

'Ava was a healthy young woman who was likely involved in physical labour.

'We don't know what caused her death, but the way she was buried suggests that extra effort was put into the creation of her grave.

'I did not feel that she looked typical of what a person from Bronze Age Britain would have looked like, but perhaps that of a person from a more southern part of Europe.'

Experts found traces of St John's wort and other herbal medicines in her grave, suggesting she might have been treated for an injury at the time of her death.

New analysis using genomic data by forensic artist Hew Morrison revealed what Ava's face might have looked like.

The reconstruction relied on DNA evidence found by experts from the National History museum and Harvard Medical School.

The reconstruction (pictured) relied on DNA evidence found by experts from the National History museum and Harvard Medical School

Her bones, including skull and teeth, were first discovered in Achavanich in Caithness in 1987 (pictured). According to new research led by archaeologist Maya Hoole, Ava died around 4,350 years ago as opposed to 3,700 years ago as previously thought

Researchers took measurements of Ava's skull and teeth and compared it to a database of European statistics to work out what her face looked like.

'Whilst the overall shape of Ava's face and facial features remained as they were previously, darkening her eyes, her skin tone and giving her totally new hair made her look very different to what I initially imagined when I received the DNA results', Mr Morrison said.

Unusually, the Bronze Age woman was buried in a pit dug into solid rock and her skull is an abnormal shape - which some suggest was the result of deliberate binding.

Researchers took measurements of Ava's skull and teeth and compared it to a database of European statistics to work out what her face looked like

Experts found traces of St John's wort and other herbal medicines in her grave (artist's impression), suggesting she might have been treated for an injury at the time of her death

'Ava', an abbreviation of Achavanich, is part of of Archaeologist Maya Hoole's two-year project 'Achavanich Beaker Burial Project.

During previous research, Ms Hoole and her team determined that this ancient woman was once a member of the European group, Beaker People.

This population settled in Britain around 2500 BC and brought metal, the wheel and a less centralized political culture to the new country  which ultimately put an end to the mass monument building of the Ancient Britons.

These ancient humans were also known for their short and round skull shapes, as Ava's was found to be abnormal and uneven - which was clear even though her lower jaw is missing.

'Ava', an abbreviation of Achavanich, is part of of Archaeologist Maya Hoole's two-year project ' Achavanich Beaker Burial Project . Ava's skull was found Achavanich in Caithness in 1987 (pictured)

The original reconstruction (pictured) suggested the 18 to 25-year-old Bronze Age woman had red hair and blue eyes

'The research that has been carried out so far would suggest that she was a young female, aged between 18-22 years old who was likely part of a larger community who reared animals and possibly grew crops,' Ms Hoole told DailyMail.com in 2016.

'She was buried in the north of Scotland, in a place called Achavanich in the heart of Caithness.'

'At present we know very little about her life, which is one of the reasons I set up this research project, to learn more about her.

'I'm hoping that the results from the research will tell us more about her, her society and the environment she lived'.

Short and round skull shapes were common amongst this group, but Ms Hoole said the Achavanich specimen is exaggerated and of an abnormal, uneven shape.Donald Trump is threatening to derail climate change efforts with his persistent denial of global warming, claim scientists.

Pulling the US from the Paris Agreement has opened the flood gates as several others, including Russia and Turkey, follow his lead.

Trump removed the US, the second greatest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the world, from the Paris Agreement as one of his first major presidential acts.

One expert has published a study and said that the withdrawal of the US from the 2015 Paris Agreement as well as Trump's ill-informed remarks on climate change could have long-lasting and severe ramifications.

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Donald Trump (pictured) removed the US, the second greatest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the world, from the Paris Agreement as one of his first major presidential acts

A United Nations-sponsored climate summit in Poland has kicked off today which brings together experts from around the world as leading figures in the UN claim our planet has reached a 'crossroads'.

They say the next two years are crucial to our success if we are to successfully halt global warming.

A study, from the Institute of International and European Affairs, says Trump's decision has created the 'moral and political cover for others to follow suit' in leaving the agreement.

It also claims it has soured the atmosphere and damaged goodwill in the international arena.

'The Paris agreement sent a shiver down the spine of institutional investors globally and made them question if they were exposed to stranded assets and whether these political leaders were really serious about climate change,' said Joseph Curtin, a senior fellow at the IIEA.

'There's absolutely no doubt that the Trump effect has created a sense of uncertainty in terms of the political commitment to achieve anything close to a 2C target.'

Figures released by the WMO showed that the planet was nearly 1C (1.7F) above pre-industrial levels for the first ten months of this year. The temperature for 2018 was recorded from five independent data sets

Global temperatures in 2018 are set to be the fourth highest on record, the UN has said, stressing the urgent need for action to rein in runaway warming of the planet (stock image)

The Paris Agreement, which was first signed in 2015, is an international agreement to control and limit climate change.

It hopes to hold the increase in the global average temperature to below 2C (3.6F) 'and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5C (2.7F)'

TEMPERATURE INCREASE (IN C) FROM PRE-INDUSTRIAL LEVELS YEAR 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 TEMPERATURE 0.51 0.67 0.82 0.6 0.6 0.73 0.82 0.81 0.74 0.88 0.83 0.82 0.7 0.82 0.89 0.77 0.81 0.85 0.91 1.06 1.17 1.07 0.98 Advertisement

Sir David Attenborough will be in attendance in the 'people's seat' to represent the people who are affected by global warming.

He gave a speech at the opening ceremony of the summit and said: ''We are facing a man-made disaster of global scale.

'Our greatest threat in thousands of years. Climate Change.'

The Conference of the Parties (COP) comes shortly after the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) announced the intention to limit global temperature rise to 1.5C.

This gathering has been pegged as the most influential since the 2015 ratification of the Paris Agreement.

It claimed that to achieve this goal, governments around the world would have to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 45 per cent by 2030.

Four influential previous presidents of the talks called for decisive action to reach these targets.

They said the planet sits at a 'crossroads' and urged action to cut emissions and reach Paris targets.

Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General, said this period of time is 'a matter of life and death' for countries around the world.

A statement from the former chiefs came a day before the summit was scheduled to begin and is a highly unusual move.

It earmarked the next two years as a key opportunity to help halt climate change.

It read: 'What ministers and other leaders say and do in Katowice at COP24 will help determine efforts for years to come and either bring the world closer to meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement - including protecting those most vulnerable to climate change - or push action further down the road.

Pictured is a graph showing how much warmer surface air temperatures have been between January and October this year. The greatest increases were seen in the Arctic and Europe (circled). Sea-surface temperatures in the eastern Tropical Pacific (circled) were cooler than usual, showing signs of a return to El Nino conditions

Sea levels in London could rise by 3.8ft (1.15m) by 2100. A Swiss report on climate scenarios released on 13 November said that Switzerland is becoming hotter and drier, but will also struggle with heavier rainfall in the future and its famed ski resorts will have less snow

'Any delay will only make it harder and more expensive to respond to climate change.'

The statement was issued by Frank Bainimarama of Fiji, Salaheddine Mezouar of Morocco, Laurent Fabius of France and Manuel Pulgar Vidal of Peru.

In a report released ahead of the climate summit in Poland, the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) pointed out that the 20 warmest years on record have been in the past 22 years.

It found that 2018 is on course to be the 4th warmest year on record and we're the 'last generation to be able to do something about it'.

The UN agency said in its provisional report that 'the past four years - 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 - are also the four warmest years in the series'.Climate change will cause the collapse of civilisations if governments do not agree to drastically cut greenhouse gases, Sir David Attenborough has warned in a stark speech to world leaders.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of a UN summit on climate change, the legendary broadcaster, 92, warned that the extinction of much of the natural world is 'on the horizon'.

Delivering the first ever 'People's Seat' speech, Sir David made a powerful and passionate plea for action, warning that Earth faces its 'greatest threat in thousands of years'.

He was speaking in Katowice, Poland, calling for leaders and decision-makers to take charge on driving down greenhouse gas emissions.

Sir David said: 'Our greatest threat in thousands of years: climate change.

'If we don't take action, the collapse of our civilisations and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizon.

'The world's people have spoken, their message is clear, time is running out, they want you, the decision-makers, to act now.'

Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General, who also gave a speech, said the world is 'way off course' to prevent catastrophic climate change and that 'we are in trouble, deep trouble'.

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Sir David Attenborough (pictured) has issued a stark warning to the world about the risks of climate change

Sir David was speaking on behalf of the UN's 'People's Seat' initiative to give ordinary people a voice at the international talks by gathering their thoughts, ideas and concerns through social media and polling in the past two weeks.

His strongly worded speech to the congregation continued: 'Time is running out. [The people] want you, the decision makers, to act now.

'They are behind you, along with civil society represented here today.

'Supporting you in making tough decisions but also willing to make sacrifices in their daily lives.'

The UN has launched an 'ActNow.bot' which helps people discover simple everyday actions they can take to tackle climate change.

'The people have spoken: leaders of the world, you must lead, the continuation of our civilisations and the natural world upon which we depend are in your hands.'

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned negotiators at the meeting that the world was 'in deep trouble' with climate change.

'Climate change is running faster than we are and we must catch up sooner rather than later, before it's too late.

'For many people, regions and even countries, this is already a matter of life and death.'

Sir David was speaking on behalf of the UN's 'People's Seat' initiative to give ordinary people a voice at the international talks by gathering their thoughts, ideas and concerns through social media and polling in the past two weeks

He also said that 'climate action is not just the right thing to do, it makes social and economic sense', pointing to how action to cut emissions will curb air pollution deaths and generate millions of jobs and trillions of dollars.

The speeches come after four former presidents of the annual UN climate talks warned the 'world is at a crossroads' and decisive action in the next two years would be crucial to tackle the threat of climate change.

In a joint statement, France's Laurent Fabius, Frank Bainimarama, from Fiji, Salaheddine Mezouar, from Morocco, and Peru's Manuel Pulgar Vidal said: 'The challenges are there, as are the solutions.

'We require deep transformations of our economies and societies to build a better world for all. This must be powered by multilateral co-operation.'

'TIME IS RUNNING OUT': DAVID ATTENBOROUGH'S WARNING TO HUMANITY Sir David urged action against global warming and called it a man-made disaster that poses 'our greatest threat in thousands of years' Your excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. 'We the peoples of the United Nations'. These are the opening words of the UN Charter. A charter that puts people at the centre. A pledge to give every person in the world a voice on its future. A promise to help protect the weakest and the strongest from war, famine and other man-made disasters. Right now, we are facing a man-made disaster of global scale. Our greatest threat in thousands of years. Climate Change. If we don't take action the collapse of our civilisations and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizon. The United Nations provides a unique platform that can unite the whole world. And as the Paris agreement proved, together we can make real change happen. At this crucial moment, the United Nations has invited the world's people to have their voice heard, by giving them a seat. The People's Seat; giving everyone the opportunity to join us here today, virtually, and speak directly to you the decision makers. In the last two weeks, the world's people have taken part in building this address, answering polls, sending video messages and voicing their opinions. I am only here to represent the 'Voice of the People': to deliver our collective thoughts, concerns, ideas and suggestions. This is our 'We the peoples' message. The world's people have spoken. Their message is clear. Time is running out. They want you, the decision makers, to act now. They are behind you, along with civil society represented here today. Supporting you in making tough decisions but also willing to make sacrifices in their daily lives. To help make change happen, the UN is launching the Act Now bot. Helping people to discover simple everyday actions that they can take, because they recognize that they too must play their part. The People have spoken. Leaders of the world, you must lead. The continuation of our civilisations and the natural world upon which we depend, is in your hands. Advertisement

Pictured is a graph showing how much warmer surface air temperatures have been between January and October this year. The greatest increases were seen in the Arctic and Europe (circled). Sea-surface temperatures in the eastern Tropical Pacific (circled) were cooler than usual, showing signs of a return to El Nino conditions

'A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH': UN-SECRETARY GENERAL WARNS WORLD IS 'WAY OFF COURSE' ON CLIMATE CHANGE Antonio Guterres (pictured) is UN Secretary-General and he said this period of time is 'a matter of life and death' for countries around the world Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General, said this period of time is 'a matter of life and death' for countries around the world. He was speaking at an international summit on climate change in Katowice, Poland. He said the world is 'way off course' to prevent catastrophic climate change and that 'we are in trouble, deep trouble'. Mr Guterres called climate change 'the single most important issue we face', speaking on Monday at the ceremonial opening of a UN summit in Katowice, Poland. The UN chief chided countries, particularly those most responsible for greenhouse gas emissions, for failing to do enough to meet the goals of the Paris climate accord. Mr Guterres urged countries to aim for net zero emissions by 2050 saying we are currently 'way off course'. He said countries should radically reduce the use of fossil fuels such as coal, commenting that we are already 'in trouble, deep trouble'. Advertisement

They called for ambitious decisions which are sufficiently detailed and comprehensive to enable the effective operation of the Paris Agreement, secured three years ago in the French capital to curb global warming.

A process to enable countries to announce efforts by 2020 to ramp up their domestic ambition on cutting greenhouse gas emissions must be launched, they said, as current efforts are not enough to prevent dangerous temperature rises.

And there needs to be progress on the goal of mobilising 100 billion US dollars (78 billion) a year for poorer countries to drive clean growth, they urged.

The World Bank has announced it is doubling investments in climate action with 200 billion US dollars (157 billion) for 2021-2025, including 50 billion US dollars (39 billion) towards helping countries adapt to the impacts of global warming.

Negotiators at the talks will hear details of a global review on climate change-tackling efforts, and the pressure is on to work towards increasing commitments from countries by 2020.

The talks in Poland also aim to draw up the rulebook for making the Paris deal operational, and poorer countries will be looking for a boost to the finance being made available to help them develop cleanly.Verizon and Samsung said on they plan to release 5G smartphones in the first half of 2019 in the United States.

The news comes after Bloomberg reported , citing sources, that Apple is planning to wait until at least 2020 to release its 5G iPhones.

Apple's delay makes it easier for Samsung and Verizon to win customers who are eager to connect to 5G networks, which will provide a leap forward in mobile data speeds when they are introduced in 2019.

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Verizon and Samsung said on they plan to release 5G smartphones in the first half of 2019 in the United States.

5G COMES TO JAPAN South Korean carriers SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus all launched their 5G networks over the weekend, with SKT CEO Park Jung-ho using a prototype Samsung phone to make video calls around the country. The carriers 5G network presently covers 13 South Korean cities and counties; Verizons is set to go live in early 2019. Advertisement

5G can offer data speeds up to 50 or 100 times faster than current 4G networks.

While some Android manufacturers are choosing to release their first set of devices next year, the tech giant is said to be waiting until the technology matures.

Superfast 'fifth generation' (5G) mobile internet promises download and browsing speeds 10 to 20 times faster than we have now.

The first 5G devices, which should arrive in 2019, promise significantly quicker download speeds than current 3G and 4G networks.

That includes 4K films downloading to smartphones in seconds, better gaming quality, faster browsing and better video quality.

Verizon partnered with Samsung to launched its first commercial 5G service in October in Houston, Indianapolis, Los Angeles and Sacramento.

Samsung has received FCC approval for its 5G commercial products.

Major network operators such as AT&T and T-Mobile have been buying up technologies and bits of the radio spectrum to allow for small-scale 5G roll-outs.

For example, AT&T have recently announced that a dozen cities in the US would get 5G coverage next year but as Webb points out they have provided no information on what frequency bands or how base stations will be arranged to provide the signal.Prehistoric humans may have cut off their own fingers as part of a gruesome religious ritual.

Cave art discovered from all over the world features hand-prints outlined with ochre and other ancient pigments.

These prints are regularly missing parts of fingers and experts believe the widespread absence of the appendages is most likely as a result of religious sacrifice.

Scientists say the missing fingers may also be as a result of the harsh environment in prehistoric times.

Frostbite, accidents and animals are all other potential causes for the loss of the phalanges.

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Missing fingers is very common in the appearance of cave art around the world. These prints are regularly missing one or several fingers and experts believe the widespread absence of the appendages may indicate it has religious underpinnings

'Finger amputation was a reasonably common behaviour in many regions in the recent past,' archaeologist Mark Collard of Simon Fraser University in Canada told New Scientist.

'The available data seem to fit reasonably well with the hypothesis that some Upper Palaeolithic people engaged in finger amputation for the purposes of religious sacrifice.'

Missing fingers is very common in the appearance of cave art around the world.

A database including sites in Africa, Eurasia, Oceania, and the Americas revealed 121 separate societies which exhibited the same behaviour.

For example, at Grotte de Gargas in France, there are 231 hand stencils in total that belong to a group of up to 50 people.

Almost half (114) of these are missing one or more digits.

Some scientists have claimed there may be less painful alternatives to explain the plethora of cave art with amputated fingers.

Explanations and theories range from as simple as the ancient people bending their finger and painting around it to frostbite ravaging the societies.

Some suggestions have claimed that it may have been a way of coping with grief and mourning the loss of a loved one.

The most likely explanation, according to the researchers and published in the Journal of Paleolithic Archaeology, is as religious sacrifice.

WHAT EXAMPLES OF EARLY HUMAN ART HAVE BEEN DISCOVERED WORLDWIDE? It seems that humanity and its ancestors have been driven to create patterns, abstract images and representations of the world around them for thousands of years. The earliest known engraving, a zig-zag pattern, incised on a fresh water shell from Trinil, Java, was found in layers of sediment dated to 540,000 years ago. A recent article proposed that painted representations in three caves of the Iberian Peninsula were 64,000 years old and therefore produced by Neanderthals. The oldest known shell (top) to have been engraved by an early human has been uncovered in a Dutch museum collection, where it remained unnoticed since the 1930s. Pictured here is its polished edge (bottom) Lifelike images found at sites such as the famous Lascaux Cave in south-west France, which date to around 30,000 years ago, are said to demonstrate an ability to depict animal movement superior to that seen today. In 2018, experts uncovered evidence of art made by humans dating back 73,000 years in an African cave. Scientists say the drawing, which consists of three red lines cross-hatched with six separate lines, was 'intentionally created' on a smooth silcrete flake. That makes the drawing, found in the Blombos Caves site in South Africa, the oldest drawing by Homo sapiens ever found, experts say. Advertisement

Not all experts are convinced by this theory, however, and some say a definitive answer may never be found.

'None of the ethnographic cases they cite match the distinctive pattern seen in the ice age hand stencils - namely, a sequential shortening of fifth, fourth and third fingers, with the thumb spared,' archaeologist Ian Gilligan of the University of Sydney said.

A database including sites in Africa, Eurasia, Oceania, and the Americas revealed 121 separate societies which exhibited the same behaviour. Some think it is evidence of a religious ritual

'On the other hand, pun intended, this pattern matches precisely the effects of frostbite.

'The pattern corresponds to the differing susceptibility of fingers to frostbite, with the thumb not affected.'

The researchers themselves acknowledge this suggested answer to the millennia-old quandary may not be correct.

'While the case for favouring the amputation hypothesis is not airtight,' the authors write in the paper.

'We are of the opinion that it is strong enough to warrant treating the hypothesis as if it is correct for the purposes of further investigation, and this is what we did in the study reported here.'A green sea turtle washed up in Cape Town has had a discarded carrier bag removed from its stomach.

Scientists believe that the turtle mistook the plastic bag for a piece of sea lettuce - which looks remarkably similar.

The 50lbs (23kg) creature was struggling to breath because of the blockage, experts found.

The 50lbs (23kg) creature was struggling to breath because of the blockage, experts found. Scientists believe that the turtle mistook the plastic bag (right) for a piece of sea lettuce (left)

The turtle was found on Struisbaai beach and brought to the Two Oceans Aquarium for an X-ray after people found it was struggling to breathe.

'Suspecting a possible lung infection or pneumonia, we started with antibiotics and supportive medication', the aquarium wrote in a blog post.

'Over the next couple of days, we noticed that the turtle was becoming weaker.'

Dr Malan van Zyl from the Cape Animal Medical Centre was called in to carry out an endoscopy on the turtle.

'We were able to confirm that the turtle indeed had some kind of obstruction in its oesophagus', an aquarium spokesperson wrote.

The vet removed the plastic sheet using forceps.

'In 10 days, this turtle has gone from being found on a beach, admitted to our rehabilitation facility, has had X-rays and treatment and yesterday, had a piece of a plastic bag removed from its throat', the blog post read.

'The turtle is still in critical condition.

'We are monitoring it as part of our Turtle Rehabilitation and Release Programme and will continue to administer medication and treatment as needed.'

Earlier this year a report found plastic is killing 40 per cent of young sea turtles.

The turtle was found on Struisbaai beach (pictured) and brought to the Two Oceans Aquarium for an X-ray after people found it was struggling to breathe

Dr Malan van Zyl from the Cape Animal Medical Centre was called in to carry out an endoscopy on the turtle. The vet removed the plastic sheet using forceps

Baby turtles are almost four times more likely to be killed by ingesting plastic waste compared to adults.

Not only do these animals have weaker bodies, but they also feed in offshore waters closer to the surface, which are more likely to be contaminated with large plastic items that can accumulate in their digestive tracts.

Post mortems on almost 1,000 dead turtles found more than half of the babies  and about a quarter of juveniles  had swallowed plastic, compared to just one in seven adults.

Earlier this year a report found plastic is killing 40 per cent of young sea turtles. Pictured is the turtle recovering in the aquarium

The amount of plastic in the oceans is expected to triple in just ten years, a report issued by the UK government earlier this year warned.

This key environmental problem risks being out of sight, out of mind with more known about the surface of Mars and the Moon than the deep sea bed, it added.

The toll of plastic pollution in the sea could be 150million tonnes by 2025  treble the 50million tonnes estimated in 2015.

Our oceans store carbon dioxide and heat while producing oxygen and food, the Foresight Future of the Sea Report stressed.Advertisement

Scientists have revealed an unprecedented view of the sun's North Pole.

The stunning images could revolutionize our knowledge of the solar surface, and give new insights into how storms that batter Earth with magnetic particles form.

Researchers say the artificial image of the solar north pole is one of the best images yet of the mysterious region.

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The sun's North Pole: The line across the middle is created due to small changes in the solar atmosphere that occurred over the timeframe of creating this image. This image also shows a bright bulge on the upper-right side of the Sun; this is created by a low-latitude coronal hole rotating around the solar disc. The polar coronal hole region, which can be seen as the dark patch in the centre of the solar disc, is a source of fast solar wind. It is seen here to contain a subtle network of light and dark structures, which may cause variations in solar wind speed.

'Weve sent numerous missions into space to study the Sun, however, most of these spacecraft have focused mainly on the equatorial regions of the Sun,' the European Space Agency said.

This lack of imaging data meant researchers were forced to piece together pictures of the Suns polar regions.

The image extrapolates low-latitude Proba-2 observations of the Sun to reconstruct a view of the stars pole.

The above image includes off-limb structures, whereas this one has had this removed.

While the poles cannot be seen directly, when spacecraft observe the solar atmosphere they gather data on everything along their line of sight, also viewing the atmosphere extending around the disc of the Sun (the apparent glow around the main disc of the Sun, which also extends over the poles).

'Scientists can use this to infer the appearance of the polar regions,' ESA said.

In order to estimate the properties of the solar atmosphere over the poles, researchers continuously imaged the main disc of the Sun and take small slivers of data from the outer and upper regions of the star as it rotates, compensating for the fact that the Sun does not rotate at constant speeds at all latitudes.

Over time, these small arrays of data can be combined to approximate a view of the pole, as shown in this view.

Researchers say the data could reveal many of the sun's secrets.

THE PROBES SENT TO THE SUN Past and present solar explorers include ESAs Proba-2 (PRoject for OnBoard Autonomy 2) and SOHO (SOlar Heliospheric Observatory) probes, NASAs SDO and STEREOmissions (the Solar Dynamics Observatory and Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory, respectively), and the joint NASA/ESA Ulysses mission. However, most of these spacecraft have focused mainly on the equatorial regions of the Sun, with the notable exception of Ulysses  this probe observed our star at a wide range of latitudes for nearly two decades, until the mission came to an end in 2009. Despite Ulysses insights, this focus on low solar latitudes has left the Suns poles relatively unexplored. The images above show the Sun in four different wavelengths (which roughly show the sun in different temperatures) Advertisement

'The most obvious area of research revolves around study of the polar coronal holes, and especially their boundaries, in particular studying the dynamics of a process known as interchange reconnection occurring between open (coronal hole region) and closed magnetic flux (quiet sun) at the boundaries,' wrote Matthew West.

'On longer time-scales we can also further study the formation of the polar coronal holes.'

Wave propagation in the polar regions, and the heating processes on the sun are also set to be studied.

ESAs Solar Orbiter aims to plug this knowledge gap when it launches in 2020.

This mission will study the Sun in detail from latitudes high enough to explore its polar regions, also revealing how its magnetic field and particle emissions impact its cosmic environment  including the area of space that we call home.The very British tradition of tucking into a lavish roast dinner on Christmas day may be a stalwart of UK culture, but the evolution of the festive treat is a 'global and evolutionary feast', according to a leading scientist.

Only the humble carrot is native to British soil, with other foods stemming from throughout Europe and the wider world.

Turkey, for example, is a delicacy adopted from the Americans whereas pigs are from Turkey, potatoes are from Peru and cabbages originate from the Mediterranean.

'Christmas is now a very international festival that spans nations and even many religions', Professor Hodgson of the University of Exeter, told MailOnline.

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Christmas dinner is an international evolutionary feast - with only the humble carrot partially native to British soil,Professor Dave Hodgson from University of Exeter has said (stock)

He said: 'When we sit down to Christmas Dinner we perhaps think that it belongs to 'us', whoever 'we' are.

'At a time when nationalism and border control is on the rise, it's worth having a think about how global trade in food, and global movement of people and culture, have shaped our traditions.'

Of all the animals and plants that appear on the traditional Christmas dinner plate - turkey, bacon, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, swede, parsnip, carrot, potato, chestnut, cranberry - only the carrot is a British native, said Professor Hodgson.

Global trade and domestication over thousands of years account for everything else, from turkey and bacon to potatoes and parsnips.

Potatoes were first grown in South America - and, according to legend, brought to the British Isles by Sir Waalter Raleigh in the late 16th century.

Parsnips meanwhile were first grown in the eastern Mediterranean, becoming popular with the Greeks and Romans.

Even bacon - which may seem quintessentially British - cannot claim to be so, as pigs were first domesticated in what is now Turkey.

And while carrots have a claim to being British, the orange variety is thought to first have been grown in the Netherlands.

Without this, Professor Hodgson paints a very bleak picture of what might have been: 'Without international (especially European) trade, the British Christmas Dinner would probably consist of hard-boiled acorns, hard bread from wild grass seed, venison only for the extremely wealthy, and some very gnarly roots of burdock and dandelion.'

Professor Hodgson explains how our modern Christmas dinner has evolved over millions of years of natural selection, followed by thousands of years of domestication, agriculture, conquest and trade.

'Turkey originates in North America; domestic pigs originate from Turkey; cabbages, turnips and mustards were brought to Britain from the Mediterranean by the Romans; potatoes originate from South America; parsnips and chestnuts from the middle east,' Professor Hodgson said.

Professor Hodgson explains how our modern Christmas dinner has evolved over millions of years of natural selection, followed by thousands of years of domestication, agriculture, conquest and trade (stock)

'All of our food species have been bred to be edible, large, colourful and very different from their wild ancestors.'

Of the whole meal, Professor Hodgson suggests carrots are the only native ingredient.

Wild varieties of carrot are known to have originated from the British Isles but were first domesticated in Asia.

It is believed the 'modern' Western carrot arriving here from the Netherlands.

Professor Hodgson said: 'Only the humble carrot is native, as a wild species, to the UK. But wild carrot would not be a very good addition to the Christmas Dinner plate.

'The carrot root, as we eat it today, was domesticated in Western Asia and has moved, with several colour changes from white to purple to orange, through European horticulture over the last couple of thousand years.'

Most plates will be piled with turkey this Christmas, a bird native to North America. They were first brought to Britain around 500 years ago, and began to replace goose in the 19th century.

What we now see as irreplaceable, the turkey only became mainstream over the last 60 years.

Even the cranberry sauce was likely to be first consumed by the native Americans, only being sold largescale in the mid 20th century.

What's the history of the Yorkshire pudding? 1. The first written Yorkshire pudding recipe dates back to 1747 and was drafted by Hannah Glasse, in 'The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Simple'. This distinguished the light and crispy nature of the pudding from traditional British batter puddings. 2. Originally the Yorkshire pudding was served with thick gravy as a first course to reduce the appetite with low-cost ingredients, so people wouldn't eat too much of the more expensive meat in the next course. 3. The traditional Yorkshire pudding was cooked in meat dripping or goose fat. 4. Yorkshire pudding is typically made of a batter of eggs, flour and a liquid, commonly milk or water, or a combination of the two. 5. Morrisons sells over a million Yorkshire puddings a week across its 491 stores nationwide. Advertisement

Professor Hodgson notes that cabbage comes from the Mediterranean. Brussels sprouts are part of the cabbage family, but were first cultivated in Brussels in Belgium, hence the name, as early as the 13th century.

Although we have countries across the globe to thank for our full bellies this Christmas, there is one thing the British certainly did right - the Yorkshire pudding.

The favourite feature, made of batter, was first created to make use of the fat that dripped into a pan whilst meat cooked in the oven.

The first ever recorded recipes appeared in books called The Whole Duty of a Woman and The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Simple in the 1730s. It was listed as 'A Dripping Pudding'. The rest is history.

The majority of families (76 per cent) around the UK will serve up a roast turkey as part of their festive meal this Christmas, with approximately 10 million turkeys eaten in the UK every year.

The origins of Britain's festive foods will be discussed by Professor Hodgson, at the Science Of Christmas in Falmouth on December 6.Apple's AirPod wireless headphones have been one of the firm's most successful products - but a new version won't go on sale until 2020, a leading analyst has claimed.

Apple had been expected to launch an upgraded case giving the headphones wireless charging capabilities alongside its AirPower charging mat last year.

However, both products failed to materialise.

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Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said that Apple will release an 'upgraded model with wireless charging support' in the first quarter of 2019.

Now, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said that Apple will release an 'upgraded model with wireless charging support' in the first quarter of 2019, according to 9to5mac.

Kuo also said an all-new design AirPods is currently on track to launch in early 2020.

He forecasts dramatic unit growth for AirPods with units rising from 16 million units in 2017 to over 100 million by 2021.

The well respected analyst calls them Apple's most popular accessory ever, and said existing iPhone users are more likely to buy AirPods than upgrade their phone itself.

The new AirPods are also expected to have upgrades to their bluetooth capabilities.

Rumours of the death of the AirPower charger may have been greatly exaggerated according to owners of the new iPhone XS. It had been suggested Apple had abandoned plans for its wireless mat but packaging material suggests this is not the case (pictured)

HOW WOULD AIRPOWER WORK? AirPower is based on the Qi charging standard, which powers wireless chargers for Android and iOS smartphones alike. However, Apple claimed to have added a number of software features to improve the wireless charging experience when used with its iPhone and Watch products. AirPower is expected to include a custom Apple chip that runs a stripped-down version of the iOS operating system to conduct on-device power management and pairing with devices that are placed on the charging mat. Advertisement

Apple originally said it will sell the AirPods wireless charging case as a separate add-on accessory for existing AirPods owners, and release a minor revision to the whole product at the same time  which includes the wireless charging case.

Kuo does not go into detail about what the 'all-new design' 2020 AirPods will feature.

Previous rumors have suggested features like sweat resistance, Hey Siri integration and noise cancelling.

It also raises hopes Apple's much delayed AirPower wireless charging mat may be released next year.

It had been suggested Apple had abandoned the gadget, after the firm failed to mention it at all during the unveiling of its latest range of handsets last month.

Apple also scrubbed a number of prominent references to the device from its online retail store during the iPhone XS launch event.

Twitter user Gavin Stevens shared an image from the 'Getting Started Guide' that comes with the iPhone XS.

It reads: 'Place iPhone with screen facing up on AirPower or a Qi-certified wireless charger.

'You can also use the Lightning connector to charge iPhone and connect accessories.'

This suggests that Apple is still actively working on the device.

However, not everyone is convinced.

Eagle-eyed recipients have spotted references to the wireless charging mat inside the packaging for the iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max

'What I've heard, third-hand but from multiple little birdies, is that AirPower well and truly f*****,' wrote John Gruber on his Daring Fireball blog last week.

'Something about the multi-coil design getting too hot  way too hot.

'There are engineers who looked at AirPower's design and said it could never work, thermally, and now those same engineers have that 'told you so' smug look on their faces.'

AirPower was originally announced during the September 2017 launch event for the iPhone X in Cupertino.

It promised to provide wireless charging for future handsets, Apple Watch and AirPods.

Unlike conventional QI wireless chargers, which can power one device at a time, the AirPower is designed to power all three at once.

Apple hasn't discussed AirPower publicly since it was first announced last September. At the time, Apple said it expected the device to be available for purchase in 2018

At the time of the iPhone X launch last year, the company said it expected the device to be available for purchase in 2018, but it didn't specify a date.

Despite the latest range of iPhone Xs unveiled being equipped with wireless charging capabilities, the Californian firm remained tight-lipped about its own charging solution.

Apple also removed all prominent references from its online retail store, bar a trademark for the name buried in the legal section of its site.

It appeared that anyone who buys the latest Apple hardware would have to purchase a third-party solution that is compatible with the Qi standard of wireless charging.

Since then, AirPower hasn't been publicly discussed by Apple and the release date has been quietly dropped from the official website amid a flurry of rumours the company is struggling with the wireless technology.

In a rare move for Apple, it has suggested iPhone customers buy charging hubs from Mophie, Belkin and Logitech  which are also listed on its online retail store.

Speaking on-stage during the 2017 iPhone event, Apple Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing Phil Schiller said: 'We hope people love it, and that it encourages others to create more advanced solutions based on technology like this.

'We're going to be working with the Qi standards team to incorporate these benefits into the future of the standards to make wireless charging better for everyone. So look for the AirPower charger next year.'

One of the biggest issues believed to be causing the delays with Apple AirPower is the mechanism to charge three separate devices, including an iPhone, Apple Watch and wireless AirPods headphones, simultaneously on the same surface.

The amount of power required to charge all of the devices is causing some issues with overheating, according to rumours from inside Apple.

A multi-device charging mechanism likely requires differently sized charging components for the three types of devices, which would all overlap across the mat  something that could generate dangerous levels of heat.

Apple also hoped to allow people to place their device anywhere on the AirPower pad to charge, however, this purportedly requires incredibly complex circuitry.

Most wireless chargers highlight a designated area where the phone needs to be placed in order to draw power.

With no sight of the device yet, many are noting that it highlights Apple's growing supply chain woes.

Apple faced similar issues with the HomePod smart speaker, which was released this year, about six months after the device was first announced.

But many are calling Apple's slow release of AirPower out of character for the company.

'Hopefully, Apple learns a lesson to only announce products that are for sure shipping soon or immediately after announcing,' Ben Bajarin, analyst at Creative Strategies, told Bloomberg in June.Advertisement

NASAs OSIRIS-REx spacecraft has finally arrived at asteroid Bennu more than two years after blasting off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

The long-awaited rendezvous officially kicks off the start of the ambitious mission to study a near-Earth object that could hold the key to understanding the origins of our solar system, and life itself.

OSIRIS-REx will spend the next year in orbit around its target before dropping down briefly so it can get close enough to scoop up a sample of dirt and rock from the surface.

NASA aired live coverage of its arrival starting at 11:45 a.m. ET, shortly before the spacecraft began the 20-second burn that put it on the right trajectory around the asteroid.

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NASAs OSIRIS-REx spacecraft has finally arrived at asteroid Bennu more than two years after blasting off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.The animation above shows the craft's approach to the object, beginning August 17 when it was over 1,300,000 miles from Bennu, to November 27, when it was just 40 miles away

We have arrived, technicians announced, spurring high-fives and clapping around the control room.

Just days ago, Osiris-Rex flexed its mechanical arm through a full range of motion for the first time in space ahead of reaching Bennu; eventually, this instrument will be used to pluck a regolith sample from the surface to bring back home.

The craft has now traveled more than a billion miles since launching in September 2016.

Osiris-Rex ultimate goal is to bring back a regolith sample of at least 2.1 ounces. It will first survey the asteroids surface for a year, before selecting a safe and scientifically interesting location to scoop up some rocks.

If all goes well, the craft will bring the sample back to Earth in September 2023.

The animation above shows our closest look yet at the space rock, showing Bennu in one full rotation from about distance 50 miles away (80 km). It was captured over the course of four hours and 18 minutes

Osiris-Rex has been sending back photos throughout the course of its journey, revealing glimpses at its then-faraway target and even our own planet from millions of miles way.

In August, the craft snapped its first image of asteroid Bennu.

While the blurry snapshot might not look like much, its first look was the closest weve come to the space rock yet, at 1.4 million miles away.

The craft also captured a look at Earth and moon in their orbital dance back in January.

Asteroid Bennu, which Osiris-Rex will spend the next few years studying, is said to be a carbon-rich hunk of rock that might contain organic materials or molecular precursors to life.

NASA aired live coverage of its arrival starting at 11:45 a.m. ET, shortly before the spacecraft began the 20-second burn that put it on the right trajectory around the asteroid. Artist's impression

Osiris-Rex captured a 'super-resolution' view (left) of asteroid Bennu on October 29, 2018. The photo was created using eight images obtained by the spacecraft from a distance of about 205 miles (330 kilometers)

'Analyzing a sample from Bennu will help planetary scientists better understand the role asteroids may have played in delivering life-forming compounds to Earth,' NASA explains.

'We know from having studied Bennu through Earth- and space-based telescopes that it is a carbonaceous, or carbon-rich, asteroid. Carbon is the hinge upon which organic molecules hang.

'Bennu is likely rich in organic molecules, which are made of chains of carbon bonded with atoms of oxygen, hydrogen, and other elements in a chemical recipe that makes all known living things.

'Besides carbon, Bennu also might have another component important to life: water, which is trapped in the minerals that make up the asteroid.'

The Large Binocular Telescope Observatory located on Mount Graham in Arizona spotted Osiris-Rex (red) in September 2017, roughly a year after it launched

This September 11, 2016 photo shows a Centaur upper stage lifted at Space Launch Complex 41 on Florida's Cape Canaveral Air Force Station where it was attached to the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket first stage booster, carrying OSIRIS-REx

Once Osiris is ready to collect a sample, it will drop down closer to Bennu and hover over the surface like a hummingbird, with only its mechanical arm getting close enough to touch the asteroid.

The Touch-and-Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism (TAGSAM) will suck up the regolith, kicked up by its nitrogen gas thrusters, and hopefully collect enough to study back at home.

Scientists estimate the asteroid formed roughly 4.5 billion years ago.

Bennu is a leftover fragment from the tumultuous formation of the solar system, NASA says.

Some of the mineral fragments inside Bennu could be older than the solar system. These microscopic grains of dust could be the same ones that spewed from dying stars and eventually coalesced to make the Sun and its planets nearly 4.6 billion years ago.The Pentagon is developing a radical plan to breed gentically modified life forms to hunt for enemy subs.

A newly revealed project hopes to create 'living tripwires' that could give early warning to Navy commanders.

The Naval Research Laboratory, or NRL, would be able to tune the microorganisms to hunt for a variety of giveaway signals, from diesel fuel to human DNA from stealth divers.

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A newly revealed project hopes to create 'living tripwires' that could give early warning to Navy commanders.. Pictured, a dolphin jumps in front of the Virginia-class attack submarine USS John Warner

HOW 'LIVING TRIPWIRES' WORK The Naval Research Laboratory, or NRL, would be able to tune the microorganisms before releasing them. The could hunt for a variety of giveaway signals, from diesel fuel to human DNA from stealth divers. Once they come into contact with the trigger material, it would cause a loss of electrons, which could be detectable to friendly sub drones patrolling the area Advertisement

According to Defence One, coming into contact with the trigger material would cause a loss of electrons, which could be detectable to friendly sub drones.

'In an engineered context, we might take the ability of the microbes to give up electrons, then use [those electrons] to talk to something like an autonomous vehicle,' NRL researcher Sarah Glaven said at a November event put on by the Johns Hopkins University's Applied Physics Lab.

Glaven said she believes the research is about a year away from providing concrete evidence that she can engineer reactions in abundant marine life forms that could prove useful for the military.

Researchers are targetting abundant sea organisms, like Marinobacter, for the project.

Sub-hunting, in particular, is 'what we would like it to be applicable for,' she said.

Several projects across the Army, Navy and Air Force, are part of the $45 million effort known as the 'Applied Research for the Advancement of Science and Technology Priorities Program on Synthetic Biology for Military Environments' designed to genetically engineer creatures for warfare.

The Naval Research Laboratory, or NRL, would be able to tune the microorganisms before releasing them.

If researchers can perfect the technology, it could lead to everything from living camouflage that reacts to its surroundings to better avoid detection, to radical new drugs.

Last year a team of scientists from the U.S. Army Research Laboratory and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology developed and demonstrated a pioneering synthetic biology tool to deliver DNA programming into a broad range of bacteria.

This research was published in the journal Nature Microbiology, and was featured as the cover of the September 2018 issue.

'Much of the current work in synthetic biology has used a small number of domesticated microbes, including E. coli or yeast,' said Dr. Bryn Adams of ARL's Biotechnology Branch.

'Unlocking genetic access to undomesticated microbes has been a major barrier to military adoption of synthetic biology products.'

Adams further explained that there is a need for broadly applicable synthetic biology tools that allow access to a wide range of microorganisms, including the most fundamental step of genetic engineering - the ability to transfer DNA into a cell.

The team's novel approach to address this problem uses an engineered Bacillus subtilis bacterium, termed XPORT, to deliver DNA in a highly precise and controlled fashion to a wide variety of bacteria.

MIT professor and corresponding author Dr. Christopher Voigt said, 'Every Soldier, vehicle and weapon system is coated with living bacteria.

'We are looking forward to understanding how these bacteria change depending on the theater, now having the ability to control them for sustained optimal performance.'

'Our team is looking at ways we can reprogram cells that already exist in the environment to create environmentally friendly platforms for generating molecules and materials beneficial for defense needs,' said Dr. Claretta Sullivan, a research scientist at the Air Force Research Laboratory's Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, who is also the Tri-Service Program Manager for SBME, when the project was announced.Advertisement

A breathtaking new image series captured by NASAs Juno spacecraft has revealed a look at a dolphin-shaped cloud that appears to be jumping through Jupiters atmosphere.

The cloud was spotted amid bands of clouds spanning the planets southern hemisphere back in October.

Juno documented the striking feature during its 16th close flyby of Jupiter, when it came about 11,400 to 31,700 miles (18,400 to 51,000 kilometers) from the planet's cloud tops.

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A breathtaking new image series captured by NASAs Juno spacecraft has revealed a look at a dolphin-shaped cloud that appears to be jumping through Jupiters atmosphere. It can be seen in the image above, just to the right of center

According to NASA, the images were taken between 5:26 p.m. and 5:46 p.m. ET on October 29.

They were later processed by citizen scientists Brian Swift and Sean Doran.

The image shows the 'changing cloud formations across Jupiter's southern hemisphere,' NASA explains.

'A cloud in the shape of a dolphin appears to be swimming through the cloud bands along the South Temperate Belt.'

The Juno mission has been churning out stunning photos of the gas giant planet ever since it arrived to its orbit in 2016.

Juno documented the striking 'dolphin' feature during its 16th close flyby of Jupiter, when it came about 11,400 to 31,700 miles (18,400 to 51,000 kilometers) from the planet's cloud tops

Last month, NASA shared another look at its swirling clouds, which take on dream-like appearance of an oil painting. The photo showed storms in Jupiter's dynamic North North Temperate Belt.

'Appearing in the scene are several bright-white 'pop-up' clouds as well as an anticyclonic storm, known as a white oval,' NASA said.

'A multitude of magnificent, swirling clouds in Jupiter's dynamic North North Temperate Belt are captured.'

It captures the intensity of the jets and vortices in Jupiter's North North Temperate Belt. The clouds are likely made of ammonia-ice crystals, or possibly a combination of ammonia ice and water.

This color-enhanced image was taken at 1:58 p.m. PDT on Oct. 29, 2018 (4:58 p.m. EDT) as the spacecraft performed its 16th close flyby of Jupiter. At the time, Juno was about 4,400 miles (7,000 kilometers) from the planet's cloud tops, at a latitude of approximately 40 degrees north.

The image, captured in the final minutes of a recent close flyby of Jupiter, NASA's Juno spacecraft captured a departing view of the planet's swirling southern hemisphere. At the time, Juno was about 55,600 miles (89,500 kilometers) from the planet's cloud tops, above a southern latitude of approximately 75 degrees

Although the region as a whole appears chaotic, there is an alternating pattern of rotating, lighter-colored features on the zone's north and south sides.

Scientists think the large-scale dark regions are places where the clouds are deeper, based on infrared observations made at the same time by Juno's JIRAM experiment and Earth-based supporting observations

NASA's Juno probe previously revealed a stunning 'rear view mirror' view of Jupiter.

How NASA's Juno probe to Jupiter will reveal the secrets of the solar system's biggest planet The Juno probe reached Jupiter in 2016 after a five-year, 1.8 billion-mile journey from Earth The Juno probe reached Jupiter on July 4, 2016, after a five-year, 1.8 billion-mile (2.8bn km) journey from Earth. Following a successful braking manoeuvre, it entered into a long polar orbit flying to within 3,100 miles (5,000 km) of the planet's swirling cloud tops. The probe skimmed to within just 2,600 miles (4,200 km) of the planet's clouds once a fortnight - too close to provide global coverage in a single image. No previous spacecraft has orbited so close to Jupiter, although two others have been sent plunging to their destruction through its atmosphere. To complete its risky mission Juno survived a circuit-frying radiation storm generated by Jupiter's powerful magnetic field. The maelstrom of high energy particles travelling at nearly the speed of light is the harshest radiation environment in the Solar System. To cope with the conditions, the spacecraft was protected with special radiation-hardened wiring and sensor shielding. Its all-important 'brain' - the spacecraft's flight computer - was housed in an armoured vault made of titanium and weighing almost 400 pounds (172kg). The craft is expected to study the composition of the planet's atmosphere until 2025. Advertisement

The image, captured in the final minutes of a recent close flyby of Jupiter, gives a view of the planet's swirling southern hemisphere.

It shows the giant storms and vast vortices that engulf the planet from a new perspective.

'The color-enhanced image was taken at 7:13 p.m. PDT on Sept. 6, 2018 (10:13 p.m. EDT) as the spacecraft performed its 15th close flyby of Jupiter,' NASA said.

At the time, Juno was about 55,600 miles (89,500 kilometers) from the planet's cloud tops.Georgie Gardner has confirmed she will not attend Karl Stefanovic's wedding to Jasmine Yarbrough.

In a statement to Daily Mail Australia on Sunday, a Channel Nine rep revealed the Today co-host already has prior commitments and therefore won't be in attendance.

It comes after The Daily Telegraph reported that Karl, who was busted criticising his colleague in a leaked Uber phone call in March, did not invite her to his big day.

'She has family commitments and holidays previously planned': Channel Nine rep confirms Georgie Gardner won't attend Karl Stefanovic's wedding to Jasmine Yarbrough after reports she wasn't invited

'He did [invite her] and has previously been reported she has family commitments and holidays previously planned,' the spokesperson said.

The statement was in direct response to the Daily Telegraph's claim that Georgie was snubbed from the wedding guest list.

It comes months after a leaked phone conversation between Karl and his brother Peter while riding in an Uber.

During the phone call, Karl complained about Georgie, who had joined the breakfast program just weeks prior as Lisa Wilkinson's replacement.

Awkward! It comes months after a leaked phone conversation between Karl and his brother Peter while riding in an Uber. During the phone call, Karl complained about Georgie, who had joined the breakfast program just weeks prior as Lisa Wilkinson's replacement

The ceremony will be attended by celebrities, television stars, billionaires and socialites.

Karl and Jasmine's guest list reportedly includes 60 people, ranging from family members to well-known public figures.

Karl's side of the aisle will likely include his longtime friend and casino magnate James Packer, as well as the businessman's girlfriend Kylie Lim.

Not long to go! Karl and Jasmine's guest list reportedly includes 60 people, ranging from family members to well-known public figures

His Today show colleague Richard Wilkins will also no doubt make an appearance, bringing along his new partner Virginia Burmeister.

And, of course, Karl's manager Sharon Finnigan will be expected to attend.

Richard's son Christian Wilkins has also confirmed his attendance alongside boyfriend Andrew Kelly.

Star-studded: Karl and Jasmine's guest list reportedly includes 60 people, ranging from family members to well-known public figures. Pictured left: Kylie Lim and James Packer, and right: Virginia Burmeister and Richard Wilkins

Glamorous crowd: As for Karl's immediate family, it's believed that his younger brother Peter (left) and sister-in-law Sylvia Jeffreys (right) will be sitting front and centre. Pictured in 2016

The aspiring model told Daily Mail Australia at the Melbourne Cup that he expects lots of 'tequila' at the Cabo San Lucas ceremony.

As for Karl's immediate family, it's believed that his younger brother Peter and sister-in-law Sylvia Jeffreys will be sitting front and centre.

Oh, brother! Karl and Peter's younger brother Tom (right) will also make an appearance

Ready to party! Richard Wilkins' son Christian (right) has also confirmed his attendance alongside boyfriend Andrew Kelly (left)

A family affair! Sitting on Jasmine's side of the aisle will likely be her father Bob, mother Cheryl, sister Jade and brother Joshua. Pictured (left to right): Jade, Bob and Jasmine Yarbrough

However, it has previously been reported that Peter will not be the best man.

The Channel Nine star will also be flying his children to Mexico for the celebrations.

Meanwhile, Karl and Peter's younger brother Tom has also been invited alongside his wife Jenna Dinicola, who Jasmine recently described as being like a 'sister'.

Sister, sister! Jade (left) and Jasmine (right) hail from Brisbane, Queensland

Mixing business and pleasure! Jasmine's Mara & Mine business partner Tamara Ingham (left) is also believed to be in attendance

Sitting on Jasmine's side of the aisle will likely be her father Bob, mother Cheryl, sister Jade and brother Joshua.

Her Mara & Mine business partner Tamara Ingham will also be in attendance, having recently participated in Jasmine's hen weekend festivities.

Those who have turned down a wedding invitation include Jasmine's 92-year-old grandmother Isabel, who is too old to fly overseas.

Meanwhile, Lisa Wilkinson recently confirmed she didn't receive an invitation to the wedding, despite having worked with Karl on the Today show for over a decade.

New Idea subsequently claimed that Karl knew his former colleague wouldn't show up to the ceremony, even if she was invited.

'There is too much water under that bridge now and they both know it's too hard to come back from everything that's been said and done,' a source alleged.

Can't attend: Those who have turned down a wedding invitation include Jasmine's 92-year-old grandmother Isabel (right), who is too old to fly overseas

It was also reported that if Lisa did attend the wedding, it would have 'gone down like a lead balloon' with the other guests.

Karl and Jasmine will exchange vows in a picturesque chapel at the One&Only Palmilla Resort, where they'll also be staying.

The wedding will be a three-day affair, with the newlyweds sparing no expense.

They have booked two villas, one which costs approximately $11,600 per night, and another priced at around $15,000 per night.Home and Away star Ada Nicodemou, 41, is known for her age-defying beauty.

But after displaying a noticeably plump pout in a recent Instagram selfie, the mother-of-one faced a barrage of unkind comments.

Social media trolls accused Ada of 'overdoing' her supposed non-surgical cosmetic treatments, including lip fillers.

'This just looks unnatural': Home and Away's Ada Nicodemou, 41, has been accused of 'overdoing her lip fillers' after displaying a noticeably plump pout in this Instagram selfie (left). Pictured right in 2006

'Too much lip filler. Looks fake,' one person wrote, while another added: 'I preferred the natural and real looking Ada.'

A similar comment read: 'That's a lot of fillers done. You look better natural. This just looks unnatural.'

Fortunately, many fans came to Ada's defence and insisted she looked great.

One supportive follower wrote: 'Who gives a crap if she's had injectables? Dying your hair isn't "natural" either but I can guarantee you've all done it. If she wants to get injectables, then good on her.'

Had work done? Last month, Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr Randal Haworth told Daily Mail Australia that he believed the actress had undergone a breast augmentation. Pictured left in 2003, and right in 2018

While Ada has never publicly admitted to getting lip fillers, she has long been the subject of cosmetic surgery rumours.

Last month, Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr Randal Haworth told Daily Mail Australia that he believed the actress had undergone a breast augmentation.

He was also of the opinion that she had dabbled in non-surgical treatments, including fillers and Botox.

'Her forehead and area between her eyebrows are now smoother': Dr Haworth was also of the opinion that Ada had dabbled in non-surgical treatments, including fillers and Botox. Pictured left in 2003, and right in 2018

'No matter how gorgeous and famous you are, no one is immune to the effects of aging. Indeed, there are signs Ada has herself explored various non-surgical cosmetic options,' said Dr Haworth.

While the medical expert rejected previous suggestions that Ada had undergone a rhinoplasty, he claimed that her face shows signs of more subtle work.

'Ada's forehead and area between her eyebrows are now smoother, most likely from Botox treatments,' he observed.

Dr Haworth added that 'her undereye hollows have likely been softened with fillers at some point - perhaps with a hyaluronic acid such as Restylane Silk or Volbella.'

Observations: Dr Haworth added that Ada's 'undereye hollows have likely been softened with fillers at some point - perhaps with a hyaluronic acid such as Restylane Silk or Volbella'. Pictured left in 2005, and right in 2018

He claimed that Ada's most obvious physical change over the years is her 'lip augmentation', which was most likely achieved with a filler, such as Juvederm.

The celebrity surgeon added that the Greek-Australian star appears to have 'undergone a breast augmentation to provide a balanced boost to her bosom'.

While Ada is yet to reveal whether she has gone under the needle, she has previously supported the use of enhancements in an interview with Daily Mail Australia.

'I just think everyone should do whatever makes them feel good,' she said. 'I have no judgement on [Botox] whatsoever.'Karl Stefanovic and Jasmine Yarbrough's 'wedding of the year' is already looking to be a star-studded affair.

And in the first celebrity sighting of the week, Montana Cox was seen accompanying the bridal party at Los Angeles International Airport on Sunday.

It is believed the group is enjoying a brief stopover in the States before flying south of the border to Mexico, where the ceremony will take place this coming weekend.

Get the party started! Makeup-free Montana Cox touched down with Karl Stefanovic and Jasmine Yarbrough's bridal party in LAX on Sunday

Montana stepped off her flight makeup free, before briskly strolling through the terminal to join Jasmine's friends and family.

The 25-year-old model appeared to momentarily struggle with her carry-on luggage, which was seen slipping off her shoulder.

Dressed comfortably for the long-haul flight, Montana covered up her slender frame in an oversized black jacket and loose fitting trousers.

Not long now! It is believed the group is enjoying a brief stopover in the States before flying south of the border to Mexico, where the ceremony will take place this coming weekend

Montana managed to avoid photographers Sydney Airport earlier on Sunday, as she was not pictured departing Australia with Karl and Jasmine.

Daily Mail Australia understands Montana and Jasmine have been friends for several years.

She joined a handful of wedding guests in LAX - including Karl's son Jackson, who was previously not expected to be attending the ceremony.

Keeping it low key: Montana managed to avoid photographers Sydney Airport earlier on Sunday, as she was not pictured departing Australia with Karl and Jasmine

Karl and Jasmine - who began dating in late 2016 following the Today host's split with wife-of-21-years Cassandra Thorburn - are tying the knot in Mexico this weekend.

While they are already legally married in Australia, Karl and Jasmine will be exchanging vows in front of friends and family at the One&Only Palmilla Resort in San Jose del Cabo.

The guest list reportedly includes many celebrities, including billionaire James Packer and Karl's Channel Nine colleague Richard Wilkins.Dynasties was basically like Game Of Thrones  if it were acted out by wild dogs in Zimbabwe.

Hey, it could happen. In fact it did.

Painted Wolf depicted the kind of brilliantly gripping but horribly grim, gory, storyline GoT specialises in: a daughters ruthless attempts to drive her mother out of the family kingdom (so that she could take it over), then double up with another push that would probably destroy the matriarchs clan for good.

Fantasy: Dynasties was basically like Game Of Thrones  if it were acted out by wild dogs in Zimbabwe

Nice.

Blacktip even sounded like a character from Westeros - an aggrieved, ambitious, female rebel Cersei, Khaleesi, and co. could recognise.

Mind you they would probably relate to the plight of Tait (the beleaguered parent) too.

Given all this it quickly became clear Painted Wolf was not going to match the soppy ordeals suffered by fluffy penguin chicks, a lovely lioness and her cubs, or an OAP chimpanzee.

Tribute: Painted Wolf depicted the kind of brilliantly gripping but horribly grim, gory, storyline GoT specialises in

David Attenborough did his best  talking up this breed of wild dogs as one of Africas most extraordinary animals: some claim.

They thrive through remarkable team work, he enthused, which didnt sound that extraordinary and argued they care for pack members who are old or injured perhaps more than any other animals.

(We saw this later when Taits eldest daughter Tammy broke her leg.)

Misleading? As soon as you saw what Painted Wolves actually were, you sensed this episode wouldnt be pretty, and so it proved

But even David Attenborough struggled to make us care about them as much as his previous (cuddlier) subjects.

As soon as you saw what Painted Wolves actually were, you sensed this episode wouldnt be pretty, and so it proved.

Their name was a misnomer. If they had been painted, the result was fairly ugly: black, blotched, markings over sandy fur. Even just walking they looked faintly menacing. With their loping gait and salivating smiles, they were more like hyenas than wolves with faces that only a mother could love. And not even a mother in the case of Blacktip.

As with David the elder chimpanzee in the first episode, Attenboroughs bias was obvious.

10 year-old Tait, he sighed, was the packs queen, a grandmother as well as a mother.

Her kingdom was surrounded by three areas Tait had spent years peacefully avoiding  territories controlled by lions, hyenas, and her daughter.

Sinister: Lions, we learnt, were dangerous for Tait not just because they would attack painted wolves for food but actively targeted their pups

Blacktips group had become 30-strong and too big for her own domain.

Normally a daughter would not invade her mothers territory. But now Blacktip has no choice but to turn her sights East, Attenborough suggested generously.

With dark clouds and thunder overhead, the way Blacktips pack moved (widely spread out, unhurried, and unnoticed) also recalled an attack from GoT.

An ambush! Attenborough gasped, not sounding particularly unhappy but quite excited even though for Tait (out-numbered by two to one) retreat is now the only option.

Mission accomplished for Blacktip.

Run! An ambush! Attenborough gasped, not sounding particularly unhappy but quite excited even though for Tait (out-numbered by two to one) retreat is now the only option'

But after four months occupying the family kingdom she picked up a familiar scent (her mothers!), gathered her forces and shipped out again.

It seems Blacktip is going to try and drive her mother out of Mana (national park) for once and for all.

The pursuit took the two packs into territories they historically avoided and proved as tense and savage as anything in Westeros.

Tait picked off a baby baboon but lost a bigger kill (a young impala) to a pride of lions.

All that effort for a few mouthfuls of food! The puppies will go hungry today, Attenborough sighed, a lament that didnt make sense coming two weeks after the episode bemoaning the fact there were just 20, 000 left in Africa.

Lion's share: The population of painted wolves was only 6,600 but most of us probably preferred the lions to have the kill

Admittedly the population of painted wolves was only 6,600 but most of us probably preferred the lions to have the kill.

Lions, we learnt, were dangerous for Tait not just because they would attack painted wolves for food but actively targeted their pups.

As for Blacktip, furtively crossing enemy forests at night, she had no idea her pack was being tracked by hyenas.

When they attacked she let her pups get separated and one was snatched, squealing, then torn apart.

For hours they march in silence  a solemn procession. Heads down, tails down, they seem to mourn, Attenborough sighed admiringly.

On the hunt: As for Blacktip, furtively crossing enemy forests at night, she had no idea her pack was being tracked by hyenas

Saving grace: It was only when a crocodile exploded out of the Zambesi and snatched another victim that Blacktip finally took the hint

It was hard to feel that much sympathy though, given that she was hounding her own mother at the time. She continued too, pursuing Tait deep into the heart of the lion pridelands so determined was she to drive her for good.

She nearly lost more pups to a pride of lions and was only saved by the (miraculous) intervention of a single charging buffalo.

It was only when a crocodile exploded out of the Zambesi and snatched another victim that Blacktip finally took the hint.

Traumatised, they run! Attenborough gasped. They run and run, mile after mile. All through the day, all through the night: all the way home.

They seemed to run too far, even abandoning the territory she had stolen.

Sorrow: Taits pack, sensing victory/safety, visibly relaxed and eventually returned home to occupy their old kingdom  without Tait though

The conflict is over! Attenborough declared, like a maester in Game Of Thrones.

Taits pack, sensing victory/safety, visibly relaxed and eventually returned home to occupy their old kingdom  without Tait though.

Too old and too slow, she was no longer able to evade the lions. Her alpha male refused to abandon her and together they died in the pridelands.

Her eldest daughter Tammy had taken over and given birth to seven pups, boosting the packs total to 23.

Doting: Blacktip had produced 10 puppies of her own and was still ruling her own pack

Once again a force to be reckoned with! Attenborough celebrated.

The old order had been restored, according to Attenborough.

Taits dynasty feels secure - for now at least! he declared.

Blacktip had produced 10 puppies of her own and was still ruling her own pack.

Maybe well see how she felt about that in the next series.Nearly three months after filming began, production has wrapped on the Joker movie starring Joaquin Phoenix, with the actor spotted on set one last time.

Phoenix, 44, was seen on the New York City set as both of the characters he plays, the notorious criminal Joker and his alter-ego, Arthur Fleck.

He was seen doing a number of poses for still photos in his Joker costume and also filmed scenes as Arthur Fleck on a steep stairway in Brooklyn with Zazie Beetz.

Joker farewell: Joaquin Phoenix is spotted in one of the final photos from the set of his Joker movie as filming wraps in New York City on Sunday

Phoenix was clad in his colorful red suit with a yellow vest and green shirt while smoking a cigarette and making a number of different gestures for still photos.

When he was in character as Arthur Fleck, he was clad in a dark grey sweater, light grey pants and brown shoes, with a hooded brown coat over it.

The scenes he filmed with Beetz, who recently played Domino in Deadpool 2, featured his Fleck character watching as she descended the long stairway with a small child.

Arthur on the stairway: Phoenix, 44, was seen on the New York City set as both of the characters he plays, the notorious criminal Joker and his alter-ego, Arthur Fleck

Joaquin and Zazie: He was seen doing a number of poses for still photos in his Joker costume and also filmed scenes as Arthur Fleck on a steep stairway in Brooklyn with Zazie Beetz

Quite the character: Phoenix, 44, was seen on the New York City set as both of the characters he plays, the notorious criminal Joker and his alter-ego, Arthur Fleck

Warner Bros. has already set an October 5, 2019 release date for this standalone Joker movie, which will go up against two more high-profile films.

Also slated for release on that date is Gemini Man, starring Will Smith and Clive Owen, and The Woman In the Window, starring Amy Adams.

Now that principal photography has wrapped, director Todd Phillips has roughly 10 months to put the movie together in post-production.

Movie competition: Warner Bros. has already set an October 5, 2019 release date for this new Joker movie, which will go up against two more high-profile movies

Fleck on the go: When he was in character as Arthur Fleck, he was clad in a dark grey sweater, light grey pants and brown shoes, with a hooded brown coat over it

This new incarnation of the iconic DC Comics villain comes just two years after Jared Leto played the Joker in Suicide Squad.

Leto was reportedly set to return as The Joker in Suicide Squad 2, but there was a report from Cosmic Book News in October that Leto might not return.

James Gunn has come aboard to write and direct Suicide Squad 2, and there had been talk the new filmmaker has a brand new take, leading to rumors of re-casting.

New Joker: This new incarnation of the iconic DC Comics villain comes just two years after Jared Leto played the Joker in Suicide Squad

This new Joker movie has an all-star cast around Phoenix, with Robert De Niro as Murray Franklin.

Franklin is described as a talk show host who plays a pivotal role in Fleck's descent into madness that leads to him becoming The Joker, according to Variety.

The cast also includes Brett Cullen as Thomas Wayne, the father of Bruce Wayne, a.k.a. Batman, Douglas Hodge as Wayne family butler Alfred Pennyworth and Dante Pereira-Olson as the young Bruce Wayne.Bachelor In Paradise lovebirds Keira Maguire and Jarrod Woodgate shared very high-profile romance before sensationally calling it quits back in August.

But according to NW magazine, the pair may have buried the hatchet and rekindled their romance.

The publication reported that wedding bells are even on the horizon for the couple with, a source claiming their family and friends were expecting an engagement announcement soon.

Wedding bells? Bachelor in Paradise exes Keira Maguire and Jarrod Woodgate are back on and may be getting engaged, according to a source close to the couple

'Keira and Jarrod were convinced they were soulmates,' the source claimed.

'They talked about getting married and having kids together all the time. Actually they thought they'd be engaged by Christmas 2019.

'They're giving their relationship another shot. No one will be surprised to hear the special announcement anytime soon.'

Daily Mail Australia has reached out for comment.

After calling time on their relationship in August, the pair endured a very public slanging match through the media.

Jarrod cited Keira's obsession with Instagram as one of the main reasons he dumped her.

'They're giving their relationship another shot': After calling time on their relationship in August, the pair endured a very public slanging match through the media

'Her Instagram following is overwhelming and it was taking over our relationship,' he told Who magazine after their split.

'Shes purely Instagram-focused, and that takes up a lot of time,' he continued.

'Id spend two days a week with her and it was basically all Instagram-based,' he added.

She's Instagram focused': Jarrod cited Keira's obsession with Instagram as the reason he dumped her

Keira later offered up a different version of events through a string of interviews - she insisted she was still 'in love' with him in September.

'Jarrod wasn't ready to be in a relationship,' Keira told Now To Love.

'It was disappointing to me because he came off as this guy that was ready to settle to down, but the reality is, he wasn't ready.'

Keira and Jarrod met while filming Bachelor In Paradise in Fiji last November, and quickly moved in together in Melbourne before splitting in August this year.Naomi Watts recently embarked on a whirlwind trip to Sydney, where she helped raise millions of dollars for charity

But the 50-year-old actress was back home in chilly New York City on Saturday.

After a brief taste of the southern hemisphere summer, Naomi enjoyed a winter stroll through Manhattan's Hudson River Park with her eldest son Sasha, 11.

Feeling the chill! Naomi Watts wrapped up in a winter coat while taking a stroll in NYC with her son Sasha, 11, on Saturday after a whirlwind trip to Sydney

The Ring star wrapped up warm in a black jacket, which she paired with blue jeans and brown leather boots.

The mother-of-two completed her look with a cross-body handbag, a red beanie and stylish aviator sunglasses.

Naomi's younger son - nine-year-old Samuel - did not appear to join them for the casual outing.

Trendy: The mother-of-two completed her look with a cross-body handbag, a red beanie and stylish aviator sunglasses

Naomi shares her children with former partner Liev Schreiber.

The former couple split in September 2016, after 11 years together.

The sighting comes after Naomi returned from Sydney, where she fulfilled her duties as an ambassador for McDonald's McHappy Day.

McHappy Day helps to raise much-needed funds for sick children and their families.

Staying at home? Naomi's younger son - nine-year-old Samuel - did not appear to join them for the casual outing

Meanwhile, the Mulholland Drive star recently admitted that motherhood is her daily motivator.

'As soon as you become a parent, when your kids wake up in the morning your worries begin, and then when they're going to bed at night your worries don't go away,' she told Sydney's Daily Telegraph.

'You're always concerned about their safety and health and then as they get older, their emotional well-being.'She revealed last week that she spent her teenage years working as a waitress in a pizza restaurant in Georgia.

And Julia Roberts was back on the East Coast on Sunday, enjoying a solo outing and retail therapy around New York City.

The 51-year-old beauty was all smiles and in great spirits while braving the chilly weather in a pair of Tod's loafers.

Happy days: Julia Roberts was all smiles when she stepped out in New York City for some retail therapy on Sunday

Julia stunned in a navy colored overcoat and a pair of loose fitting pants of the same color.

She teamed the look with a pair of patent leather loafers by Tod's and accessorised with a burgundy colored cross-body bag.

The Pretty Woman beauty accessorised the winter ensemble with a pair of shades and carried around a hot beverage mug and a bottle of water.

Gorgeous: Julia stunned in a navy colored overcoat and a pair of loose fitting pants of the same color and patent leather loafers by Tod's

Julia's brunette locks were styled into loose waves for the outing.

Her makeup was kept simplistic with blushed cheeks and a pinky nude lip.

The Homecoming star's sighting comes after she appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres Show on Friday where she revealed that she spent her teenage years as a waitress in her home state of Georgia.

Beauty queen: Julia's brunette locks were styled into loose waves for the outing

Rise to the top: The Homecoming star's sighting comes after she appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres Show on Friday where she revealed that she spent her teenage years as a waitress in her home state of Georgia

'I worked in a pizza parlor. I was a teenager, I was in high school,' said the mother-of-three who is wed to cinematographer Danny Moder.

The Runaway Bride star added, 'Ironically now, its funny because the place was called ShowBiz Pizza. I think I was inspired by my job there.'

She went on to star as a waitress in her breakout hit Mystic Pizza in 1988 alongside Annabeth Gish and Lili Taylor.

Julia is now reportedly worth $140m.The year is ending on a difficult note for Beth and Duane 'Dog the Bounty Hunter' Chapman.

Following an emergency surgery that showed that her throat cancer has come back, the celebrity couple has headed back to their Colorado home, where Beth is especially comfortable.

'They say the cancer follows the path of least resistance, so it goes downward,' Dog, 65, told Us. 'Half of her lung was full of water.'

Trying time: Beth and Duane 'Dog the Bounty Hunter' Chapman have headed back to their Colorado home amid her battle with throat cancer. The couple was snapped in Washington, DC last year at an inaugural ball for President Donald Trump

The Denver, Colorado-born mother-of-four - who Dog previously told the magazine 'remains incredibly strong' amid the health battle - headed back to the Colorado home against the advice of her doctors.

Dog said doctors had hoped to keep her in the Los Angeles area hospital where she underwent the procedure November 27.

Doctors 'told us they didn't want her to leave the hospital, but she was adamant, she just wanted to be home,' Dog said.

Dog said that his wife was 'in a wheelchair to the plane and then a wheelchair on the other side,' adding that friends in Colorado were there for their arrival to take them home.

Out and about: The duo was snapped in NYC at SiriusXM Studios in 2015

Dog told the publication he has handled all of the domestic duties while Beth is recuperating from the procedure.

'Beth slept for almost an entire day, and she was more comfortable, then she got up and she was trying to do things around the house, trying to do laundry and wash the dishes, I said to her, "I've done all that, don't worry,"' he said.

Dog said recent test results are due in on Monday, which he's admittedly 'nervous about.

'It's like you kinda know what's gonna happen,' he said, 'but you're hoping and praying it's not.'

Fun day: The couple was snapped with family at a 2013 Nickelodeon award show

The TV bounty hunter said Beth is 'much more comfortable now [that] she can breathe, but she just wanted to come back to Colorado, she loves it here.'

He noted the abundance of animals the area in illustrating the couple's fondness for their Colorado home.

'This morning, there were 20 deer in the backyard. They know when the cars come who it is, and we feed them so they come to the backyard,' he said. 'And I've never seen so many deer in the backyard, it's like the animals know somehow and she loves the deer so much, and all the animals.'Kim Kardashian and Kanye West stepped out in New York City as they headed to the Versace Pre Fall 19 Fashion Show.

Just a few days earlier, Kim and Kanye were in Tokyo, where they came under fire for taking an empty 747 jet for Kanye's 'artistic reasons.'

Kardashian, 38, also took to Instagram to show off the dress for her fans.

Smitten: Kim Kardashian and Kanye West stepped out in New York City for the Versace fashion show

Kardashian was wearing a shimmering silver mini-dress which showed off ample cleavage, along with a pair of see-through heels.

She also had her hair tied up in a long ponytail for her NYC trip.

Her husband Kanye West was wearing a grey shirt and black pants and a gold chain, with a green overcoat.

Working it! The reality star, 38, and her rapper husband, 41, turned heads as they posed up a storm on the red carpet

Kanye stepping out: Her husband Kanye was wearing a grey shirt and black pants and a gold chain, with a green overcoat

Support: While she was in New York for this fashion show, she also showed her support to sister Kendall Jenner for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

Kim and Kanye: Kim took to Instagram yesterday with a new photo where she revealed, 'Kanye dressed me up as a doll

While she was in New York for this fashion show, she also showed her support to sister Kylie Jenner for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.

The show itself was taped in New York City a few weeks ago, with the one-hour show airing on ABC Sunday night at 10 PM.

'It never gets old seeing my sister walk the runway for @victoriassecret,' Kardashian said on Instagram,' before adding 'Tune in tonight to ABC and watch!'

Stepping out: The reality star was bashed last week by many for her private jet excursion with Kanye and the kids to Tokyo

Body goals: Kim looked flawless in her pink crystal mini dress designed by Donatella Versace

Posing up a storm: The pair put on a giddy display as they struck a series of poses for the cameras

Kim took to Instagram yesterday with a new photo where she revealed, 'Kanye dressed me up as a doll.

Between her Tokyo trip and her current New York jaunt, she turned her Hidden Hills mansion into a 'jungle' for a Tarzan-themed birthday party for her son Saint and nephew Reign.

Kim also recently reacted to her mother Kris Jenner putting in a cameo appearance on Ariana Grande's Thank U, Next music video, stating, 'So F***ING FUNNY.'

Inside joke: Kanye appeared to display his funny side as the brunette bombshell giggled on the glitzy red carpet

Beaming: The pair appeared in high spirits as they attended the fashion show

Lovebirds: West kept his hand on the KKW Beauty founder's leg as they sat front row

Celeb status: Kim and Kanye mingled with Donatella Versace and 2 Chainz after the show

Exciting: The pair took to the FROW as they waited to watch the starry fashion show

In good company: The stars couldn't contain their happiness as they engaged in a lively conversation

Wow-factor! Kim wore a shimmering silver mini-dress which showed off ample cleavage, along with a pair of see-through heels

Radiant: The siren swept her glossy tresses into a half up half down style for her night out

Lights, camera, action! Kanye wrapped his arm around Kim's waist as they posed for a cosy snap with the fashion designer and rapper

The reality star was bashed last week by many for her private jet excursion with Kanye and the kids to Tokyo.

Sharon Osbourne called her 'obnoxious' for sharing the trip on social media, while Kardashian admitted the trip was 'unnecessary.'

She also hinted that she's releasing a new makeup line soon, during her cameo appearance in Chrissy Tiegen and John Legend's Christmas special.

Smouldering: Kim maintained her vixen status as she struck a sultry pose during her time at the event

Off they go: Kanye grinned from ear-to-ear as he headed out of the bashAshley Tisdale was spotted out and about in Los Angeles with husband Christopher French on Sunday.

The 33-year-old actress looked rocker chic in a leather jacket and wide brim hat, while French, 36, was casually clad in a heather grey sweater and skinny jeans.

Tisdale was later seen pursuing the goods at Little MoonHaylie Duff's apparel shop in Studio City.

Lovebirds: Ashley Tisdale was spotted out and about in Los Angeles with husband Christopher French on Sunday

Ashley, who wore her hair in crimped waves, teamed her edgy ensemble with a polka dot blouse, distressed denim, and patent leather loafers.

The Disney vet accessorized with vintage cat eye sunglasses and a Louis Vuitton pet carrier.

Meanwhile, Christopher was responsible for carrying the couple's toy dog, Maui.

Fashionista: The 33-year-old actress looked rocker chic in a leather jacket and wide brim hat

Gal pals: French and Tisdale grabbed lunch before the High School Musical star met up with her hairstylist, Nikki Lee

French and Tisdale grabbed lunch before the High School Musical star met up with her hairstylist, Nikki Lee.

The blonde duo sauntered into Little Moon, where they found Haylie Duff tidying up her boutique.

Ashley appeared to leave the shop empty handed.

Supportive friends: The blonde duo visited Little MoonHaylie Duff's Studio City boutique

Bundle of joy: Ashley looked enamored with Lee's baby girl Parker

Tisdale is currently promoting her new single, Voice In My Head.

In an interview with Build, the New Jersey native discussed her nine-year hiatus from music and her upcoming album Symptoms.

'For the last four years, I've been trying to find my sound,' she explained. 'My album Symptoms is about my journey through anxiety and depression. The album is all upbeat pop with some electronic feel to it. I'm really proud of it.'Claire Fraser made a close bond with a Cherokee healer that was tragically destroyed on Sunday's episode of Outlander.

The time-traveling nurse in 1768 befriended Adawehi and learned some Cherokee words while sorting herbs along the river with her.

As they prepared a tea to help nearby pregnant woman Petronella, Adawehi asked Claire if she was a mother.

New friend: Claire Fraser made friends with Cherokee healer Adawehi on Sunday's episode of Outlander on Starz

Claire in the episode titled Savages said that she has a daughter who lives far away.

'She's here,' Adawehi told her pointing to her heart.

Jamie and Claire's house had progressed nicely from the last episode and he left to find tenants.

Claire stayed behind with their dog Rollo and for Petronella's pending delivery.

Prenatal care: Adawehi and Claire sorted herbs together near the river as they prepared a tea to help pregnant Petronella

Young Ian arrived holding Jamie's missing hat that he retrieved from the pig pen and White Sow.

Jamie and Young Ian grew frustrated trying to find tenants as they instead encountered farmers frustrated with the Crown's high taxes.

They were headed home but their horse's bit broke and they went to a local blacksmith to get it fixed.

Pig pen: White Sow made an appearance as Young Ian found Jamie's missing hat in the pig pen

Tenants wanted: Jamie and Young Ian went out looking for tenants for Fraser's Ridge

Ian got it fixed for 21 shillings, but Jamie was outraged by the high cost and confronted the blacksmith.

Jamie was astonished as the blacksmith turned out to be his godfather Murtagh Fraser.

They embraced and touched each other as they were reunited for the first time since being imprisoned at Ardsmuir.

Together again: Murtagh Fraser was reunited with Jamie for the first time since they were imprisoned at Ardsmuir

Claire meanwhile successfully delivered Petronella's baby girl who was named Clara in her honor.

Gerhard Mueller gave the baby a doll and they were interrupted by Cherokee stopping for water from a stream.

He called them 'savages' as he loaded his musket, but Claire stood between him and the Cherokee, who recognized her as the wife of 'Bear Killer' and Adawehi's friend.

Water break: Cherokee stopped for water and were accosted by Gerhard Mueller

No violence: Claire stepped in and stood between Gerhard and the Cherokee to prevent violence

The Cherokee agreed to live peacefully and sprinkled a blessing over the water that Gerhard believed was a curse.

Pastor Gottfried a few days later went to Fraser's Ridge to warn Claire that Petronella and baby Clara died of measles and Gerhard thought she let the Cherokee curse their water.

The pastor advised her to leave, but Claire loaded her rifle and stayed put with Rollo.

Home alone: Pastor Gottfried warned Claire that Gerhard believed she let the Cherokee curse their water leading to the deaths of Petronella and her newborn

Gerhard later banged on her door and Claire kept her rifle on him after he said he only wanted to talk.

Claire told him about how measles can spread quickly, but Gerhard said Petronella and the baby died from the curse by the 'savages'.

He ranted that the Indians should die from the pox instead of those who believe in God.

Just talking: Gerhard later came to Fraser's Ridge and talked to Claire who held a gun on him

Claire was stunned by his diatribe but he calmed down and said that he took care of it.

Gerhard handed her a wrapping that she recognized as a bloody scalp belonging to her friend Adawehi.

He called her a 'witch' and said he killed her to end the curse.

Bloody scalp: Claire was shocked as Gerhard handed her a scalp that she recognized as belonging to her friend Adawehi

Claire tossed him out and then put Adewehi's remains in a box that she placed on the fire.

The Cherokee got revenge and shot flaming arrows into the Mueller home and shot Gerhard's wife as she rushed outside.

He arrived at his burning home and saw his wife die before he too was killed.

Funeral pyre: The time-traveling nurse put her friend's remains in a box and set it afire

Flaming arrows: The Cherokee attacked the Mueller house with flaming arrows and killed Gerhard and his wife

Jamie finally arrived back home after declining to join Murtagh in opposition to the Crown and Claire collapsed in his arms.

She was gathering firewood a few days later and heard someone whistling 'Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy'.

Claire turned to see Murtagh walking toward her and they hugged as they were reunited before walking arm-in-arm back home.

Big hug: Claire and Murtagh shared a big hug as they were reunited

The episode also featured Claire's daughter Brianna Randall making a rescue attempt.

Roger Wakefield had tracked her down to a bed-and-breakfast in Inverness and an innkeeper gave him a letter that she was supposed to send him in a year.

Bree in the letter said she learned that 'something terrible is going to happen to my mother and Jamie' presumably referencing their fiery deaths that Roger had learned about.

Tracking down: Roger Wakefield tracked down Brianna to a bed-and-breakfast in Inverness

Early letter: An innkeeper gave Roger a letter that was supposed to be sent in a year

She also pleaded with Roger not to follower her.

'You told me to think of my mother happily in the past and thats how I want you to think of me,' she wrote.

As Roger read the letter Bree was shown in period garb approaching a stone at Craig na Dun and disappearing.

Something terrible: Bree in her letter wrote that 'something terrible' was going to happen to her mother and JamieThe countdown has officially begun for Karl Stefanovic and Jasmine Yarbrough's 'wedding of the year'.

And it looks like another celebrity guest could be attending the ceremony in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico next weekend: PR queen Roxy Jacenko.

The 38-year-old publicist was spotted at Sydney Airport on Monday before boarding a flight bound for Los Angeles International Airport.

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PICTURE EXCLUSIVE: Roxy Jacenko jetted to Los Angeles on Monday amid rumours she could be attending Karl Stefanovic and Jasmine Yarbrough's wedding in Mexico next weekend

Roxy, who was not accompanied by her children or husband Oliver Curtis, looked stylish in a Yves Saint Laurent T-shirt and denim shorts.

She completed her pre-flight look with white canvas shoes and a pair of oversized black sunglasses.

The glamorous publicist was seen giving her driver a friendly kiss before rushing into the terminal to board flight QF11 from Sydney to LAX.

Casual chic: Roxy, who was not accompanied by her children or husband Oliver Curtis, looked stylish in a Yves Saint Laurent T-shirt and denim shorts

Karl and Jasmine had taken the same flight over the weekend with several members of their wedding party.

Roxy's flight was delayed for 43 minutes, which gave her time to attend to any last-minute business before boarding.

The journey to Los Angeles takes approximately 14 hours and it is believed the Sweaty Betty PR founder travelled business class.

Jet-set lifestyle: The glamorous publicist was seen giving her driver a friendly kiss before rushing into the terminal to board flight QF11 from Sydney to LAX

Hmm! Karl and Jasmine had taken the same flight to LAX over the weekend with several members of their wedding party

Viva Mexico! Roxy's flight was delayed for 43 minutes, which gave her time to attend to any last-minute business before boarding

After checking in, she was seen making her way to the departures lounge where she bought a coffee and sat down to catch up on emails.

On Tuesday, a spokesperson for Karl and Jasmine confirmed that Roxy was not attending their wedding.

'She isn't a close friend of the couple and therefore hasn't been invited to the wedding,' they said.

Ready for the wedding? After checking in, Roxy was seen making her way to the departures lounge where she bought a coffee and sat down to catch up on emails

High achiever: Roxy is one of Sydney's most successful women, running a portfolio of four businesses including public relations firm Sweaty Betty PR

Something to smile about? Roxy looked in happy spirits before her flight to the United States

Is she going? It remains to be seen whether Roxy will witness Karl and Jasmine exchange vows in front of friends and family at the One&Only Palmilla Resort in San Jose del Cabo

Frequent flyer: The journey to Los Angeles takes approximately 14 hours and it is believed the Sweaty Betty PR founder travelled business class

Karl and Jasmine have reportedly booked two villas at the One&Only Palmilla Resort in San Jose del Cabo, one which costs approximately $11,600 per night, and another priced at around $15,000 per night

The lovebirds, who both hail from Queensland, are also bringing a uniquely Australian flavour to their three-day wedding.

They both share a love of Bundaberg Rum and Coke, so the reception will feature a 'Bundy Bar' where guests will be offered the couple's custom 'JK Blend'.

The festivities will officially begin on December 6 with a welcome party, where some of the estimated 150 guests will gather for the first time.

Customer service: Roxy was pictured with a member of Qantas staff at Sydney Airport

'The following day is a relaxation day and the day after the wedding is a recovery day,' a source told Woman's Day this week. 'This is when the partying really kicks off.'

After the celebrations, Karl and Jasmine are embarking on a honeymoon that will also double as a family holiday for the Channel Nine star.

The newlyweds will spend quality time with Karl's three children from his first marriage: Jackson, River and Ava.They recently welcomed a baby together.

And on Sunday, Diane Kruger and Norman Reedus made their first red carpet appearance together since the birth.

The new parents held hands as they posed for photos after arriving at the star-studded Pre-Fall 2019 Versace show in New York.

Held hands: They recently welcomed a baby together. And on Sunday, Diane Kruger and Norman Reedus made their first red carpet appearance together since the birth

Kruger, 42, looked incredible given she delivered her first child just a few weeks ago.

The blonde German-born beauty didn't hold back, stepping out in a colorful tight-fitting mini dress with a bikini top.

The actress carried a matching jacket draped over one shoulder and she added a wide black leather belt with an enormous gold buckle around her waist.

Despite the cold, she went bare-legged in black ankle boots and wore her blunt-cut bob with a center parting.

Stunner: Kruger, 42, looked incredible given she delivered her first child just a few weeks ago. The blonde beauty stepped out in a colorful tight-fitting mini dress with a bikini top

New mom: The actress carried a matching jacket draped over one shoulder and she added a wide black leather belt with an enormous gold buckle around her waist

All loved up: Reedus, 49, doted on his beautiful partner, planting a sweet kiss on her cheek as cameras clicked

The Walking Dead star Reedus, 49, was dressed in a black and red wide check suit paired with a black turtleneck.

The bearded actor doted on his beautiful partner, planting a sweet kiss on her cheek as cameras clicked.

The couple have maintained a public silence about their baby, keeping details including the gender and exact date of birth under wraps.

People confirmed their happy news on November 2.

Reedus also has a 19-year-old son Mingus with his former partner, model Helena Christensen.

Private: The couple have maintained a public silence about their baby, keeping details including the gender and exact date of birth under wraps

Dapper: The Walking Dead star, who shares 19-year-old son Mingus with former partner Helena Christensen, was dressed in a black and red wide check suit paired with a black turtleneck

Heading home: Diane slipped into a car as she waited for her beau to jump in and join her

Chirpy: Norma seemed in good spirits as he waved goodbye to passers-by

Laugh a minute: The duo seemed in good spirits as they chatted away on the outing

Chirpy: The couple were all-smiles as they headed home after watching the show together

At Thanksgiving, Kruger gushed on social media about her baby daddy, saying: 'I count my lucky stars to have met you .... and for sharing lifes many blessings with you.'

The couple recently moved into a $11.7 million West Village townhouse in preparation for their child's arrival.

The four-story, 3,800 sq ft brownstone, built in the 1800s, will provide the family with plenty of room.

The two actors met on the set of the 2015 indie movie Sky and went public with their romance in March 2017.

Kruger was previously in a 10-year relationship with The Affair star Joshua Jackson, 40, which ended in the summer of 2016.

Reedus split from Christensen in 2003 after five years together.She is the only daughter of the the King of Pop, Michael Jackson.

And on Sunday Paris Jackson commanded attention in an edgy outfit that would leave any burgeoning starlet jealous.

The 20-year old was just one of a slew of high-profile celebrities on hand for the Versace Pre Fall 19 Fashion Show in New York City.

Strike a pose: Paris Jackson attended the Versace Pre Fall 19 Fashion Show in NYC on Sunday

Opting to make a memorable grand entrance, the actress and model rocked the bold ensemble.

It mixed both dark and bright colors and paired stripes with a variation of floral designs.

Leaning heavily on contrast, the pants hugged her womanly curves around her toned hips and derriere, but flared out from the knees down.

The matching jacket tied around the waist and showcased her growing number of tattoos on her chest and arms.

Striking: Paris opted for a more edgier look with a number that leaned heavily on contrast

Glamorous: Paris ensured all eyes would be on her as she posed up a storm at the event

To match the eye-grabbing number, Paris wore her dyed auburn tresses long but pulled it back off her face, with the exception of some hair that was left over her left shoulder.

She went heavy on the eye make-up to give off an almost gothic look, but also contrasted that with some subtle colors for her lips and facial foundation.

The star seemed to be enjoying her time posing for photographers before the event and inside the venue with the other guests.

Working it: The 20-year old's eye makeup and hair matched the mood of her ensemble

Some of the A-list celebrities who made an appearance at the prestigious show included the likes of Kim Kardashian and husband Kanye West, Blake Lively, Hailey Baldwin, Ciara, and Diane Kruger.

Paris has followed in her father's footsteps and has begun pursuing a career in music.

She has also been honing her acting skills, and is attached to the upcoming drama, The Space Between.

Show biz bug: Paris has been pursuing a career in music and acting in recent yearsAdvertisement

They're some of the world's most gorgeous ladies who continue to own the runway.

And Hailey Baldwin, Gigi Hadid, Emily Ratajkowski and Kaia Gerber did just that when they commanded attention on the Versace catwalk in New York on Sunday night.

The four beauties all sported various ensembles from the upcoming collection, with recently married 22-year-old Bieber opting for a mini dress that flaunted her enviable trim pins.

Here for business: Hailey Baldwin, Gigi Hadid, Emily Ratajkowski and Kaia Gerber commanded attention on the Versace catwalk in New York on Sunday night

Hailey's ensemble featured a patch and striped black and white pattern with long sleeves.

One shoulder was popped out with the dress pinned together with a paperclip like design.

She completed her look with booties of the same color and design as she strutted along the catwalk.

Unique: One of Hailey's shoulders was popped out with the dress pinned together with a paperclip like design

Leggy display: The four beauties all sported various ensembles from the upcoming collection, with recently married 22-year-old Bieber opting for a mini dress that flaunted her enviable trim pins

Pals: At one point, the beauty was seen posing backstage with close friend Gigi Hadid - who was also walking the show

Breathtaking: Gigi was dressed in a white T-shirt with the brand's logo on the front. The look was teamed with a satin black, yellow and white wrap skirt that was short in the front and long in the back

Hailey's blonde locks were styled sleek back behind her ears. The new bride kept her makeup simple with deeply contoured cheekbones and a subtle smokey eye.

At one point, the beauty was seen posing backstage with close friend Gigi Hadid - who was also walking the show.

Gigi was dressed in a white T-shirt with the brand's logo on the front. The look was teamed with a satin black, yellow and white wrap skirt that was short in the front and long in the back.

Beauty: The eldest Hadid sister had her waist cinched in at the waist with a black belt and accessorised her look with a variety of necklaces and pins

Comfortable: Her look was completed with a pair of sneakers of the same design as her skirt and she had her dark blonde tresses slicked and pinned back to one side

Stunner: Gigi's glam was kept dewy with rosy cheekbones and a dark lid to bring out her deep-set blue eyes

Always happy: Gigi couldn't help but flash a smile as she walked the show

The eldest Hadid sister had her waist cinched in at the waist with a black belt and accessorised her look with a variety of necklaces and pins.

Her look was completed with a pair of sneakers of the same design as her skirt and she had her dark blonde tresses slicked and pinned back to one side.

Gigi's glam was kept dewy with rosy cheekbones and a dark lid to bring out her deep-set blue eyes.

Making her mark: Emily Ratajkowski was also seen on the catwalk on Sunday night in her hometown of New York City

Peak-a-boo! Emily's top featured a one-shoulder design with a keyhole cut-out between her ample cleavage

Stand-out: The beauty sported a different look to the other girls in a black leather form-fitting top and a mini skirt of the same color

Stunner: Her leggy look was complimented with a pair of ankle boots that added to her statuesque 5'7" height

Emily Ratajkowski was also seen on the catwalk on Sunday night in her hometown of New York City.

The beauty sported a different look to the other girls in a black leather form-fitting top and a mini skirt of the same color.

Emily's top featured a one-shoulder design with a keyhole cut-out between her ample cleavage.

Her leggy look was complimented with a pair of ankle boots that added to her statuesque 5'7" height.

Emily's dark brunette hair was also slicked back and her makeup kept clean with a luminous complexion, contoured cheekbones and a plump nude lip.

The actress was accessorised her look with a black handbag and a pair of dainty fold drop earrings.

It's Kaia's night: Although only 17, it was the daughter of veteran model Cindy Crawford, Kaia Gerber, who opened the show

High-fashion: Kaia's look consisted of a furry crop top, PVC style brown leather jacket and a midi-length camel colored satin skirt that had a slit down one side

Accessories: The look was teamed with a pair of knee-high pointed-toe boots and a white handbag

Beauty queen: Her glam consisted of dark bushy brows and contoured cheekbones as well as a nude lip - just like the other models

Although only 17, it was the daughter of veteran model Cindy Crawford, Kaia Gerber, who opened the show.

Kaia's look consisted of a furry crop top, PVC style brown leather jacket and a midi-length camel colored satin skirt that had a slit down one side.

The look was teamed with a pair of knee-high pointed-toe boots and a white handbag.

Close-knit family: Earlier in the day, Kaia was seen walking around New York City with her model parents

Strutted: Stella Maxwell, 28, also took to the runway for the show

Lithe: She flashed her midriff as she went bra-less under a cropped black sweater paired with a black mini skirt

Commanding attention: Irina Shayk joined the girls on the runway in a similar look to fellow model Hailey Bieber

Sexy: Her striped dress was long on side side and featured a very high cut on the other side. Norman Reedus & Diane Kruger arrive in style at Versace show

Strutting her style: The mother of Lea De Seine Shayk Cooper, one, teamed the look with a pair of black strappy heels that added to her already stature 5'10" height

Woman of the hour! the collection was designed by Donatella Versace (pictured)

Her glam consisted of dark bushy brows and contoured cheekbones as well as a nude lip - just like the other models.

Irina Shayk joined the girls on the runway in a similar look to fellow model Hailey Bieber.

Her striped dress was long on side side and featured a very high cut on the other side.

Something for everyone: Other looks consisted of different fabrics and prints including satin dresses, heart shaped two piece sets and a mix of stripes and fur-like prints

Everyone's included: Male models were also seen promoting the designerware on Sunday night

Special date: Taking to Instagram ahead of the show, Irina also paid tribute to the late Gianni Versace who would have celebrated his 72nd birthday today

The mother of Lea De Seine Shayk Cooper, one, teamed the look with a pair of black strappy heels that added to her already stature 5'10" height.

She accessorised the stunning ensemble with various gold necklaces and she had her dark locks slicked back off her face.

In the audience watching was Irina's long-term partner and baby daddy, Bradley Cooper.

Taking to Instagram ahead of the show, Irina also paid tribute to the late Gianni Versace who would have celebrated his 72nd birthday today.

Gianni was assassinated in Miami 1997.

Sss-exy in snake print: Emily Ratajkwoski changed into a more casual ensemble to leave the show donning a pair of snake print boots with skinny jeans and a denim shearling jacket

Model moment: Kaia Gerber was seen chatting with her model pals as she left the venueRapper Tekashi 6ix9ine was confronted by a group of Crips gang members in a tense showdown at a Brooklyn facility a few weeks back.

The 22-year-old rapper, police sources told TMZ, had just been denied bail in a November 19 hearing, and was in the intake section at the Metropolitan Detention Center in his native Brooklyn.

The Gummo artist, who's purportedly linked with the 9 Trey Gangsta Bloods gang, was accosted by a Crip who tested him in a process known as 'G Checking,' in which an alleged gang member's mettle is challenged by a rival aggressor.

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Under pressure: Tekashi 6ix9ine, 22, was confronted by a group of Crips gang members in a tense showdown at a Brooklyn facility a few weeks back. He was snapped in Philadelphia this past September

The gang member informed Tekashi, whose real name is Daniel Hernandez, that he wasn't in charge while in custody.

At that point, the outlet reported, staffers at the facility stepped in to break up the potential brawl.

The run-in persuaded officials with the Bureau of Prisons to transfer him 'to a different facility to eliminate the threat,' his lawyer Lance Lazzaro told the outlet.

Tekashi 'was being threatened in jail,' but 'he was not scared nor did he request being removed,' Lazzaro said.

In concert: The rap artist took to the stage in the City of Brotherly Love

Best of times, worst of times: The rapper has been in the worst legal trouble of his life while having remarkable professional success

Tekashi asked to be held in custody away from units containing members of the Crips and Bloods street gangs, police sources told TMZ, and was subsequently placed in a unit where people who agree to become witnesses for the state are held.

The rapper last month was arrested in connection with accusations of racketeering linked to drugs, shootings and armed robberies, including an April 3 robbery of a gang-affiliated rival near Times Square he's directly been linked to.

In denying his bail last month, U.S. Magistrate Judge Henry B. Pitman said that prosecutors had presented enough evidence to demonstrate Tekashi presented a danger to the community.She's the latest actress to portray on screen England's greatest queen, Elizabeth I.

And on Sunday, Australian star Margot Robbie attended a special screening of the historical drama Mary, Queen of Scots that opens in theatres on Friday.

The 28-year-old opted for a silky white dress with long sleeves paired with knee-high black boots for the event.

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Big role: Margot Robbie attended a special screening of Mary, Queen of Scots in New York on Sunday. The Australian actress stars as English queen Elizabeth I in the historical drama

Her floaty dress had a slit in the bodice that was fastened at the neck and there were three black buttons across the top of the left shoulder.

The outfit was cinched at the waist and the skirt fell open at the front as she walked.

She wore her blonde hair in a stylish updo swept back from her forehead.

Stylish: The 28-year-old opted for a silky white dress with long sleeves that had a slit in the bodice that was fastened at the neck. She paired the floaty number with knee-high black boots

Natural beauty: She wore her blonde hair in a stylish updo swept back from her forehead

Gracious: Robbie spent time greeting fans and posing for selfies with them

Awards PR: She seemed to have a good time as she did a Q&A on stage following the screening. She's promoting the movie in the hope of getting BAFTA nominations

In Mary, Queen of Scots, Irish actress Saoirse Ronan stars as the Scottish queen who, following the death of her young husband, the Dauphin of France, returns to her homeland to reign as monarch.

A Catholic, who had been destined to become Queen of France, she finds herself looking south of the border to where her Tudor cousin Elizabeth, a Protestant, reigns over England.

Determined to unite the two countries and return England to the 'one, true faith,' she plots Elizabeth's overthrow which inevitably leads to her capture and imprisonment.

After years under house arrest, she is executed.

The film includes a dramatic meeting between Elizabeth and Mary; in reality, the two sovereigns never met.

Feud: The movie tells the story of Elizabeth I and her cousin Mary, Queen of Scots, played by Saoirse Ronan, right, and the events that led the English queen to order the execution of her rival

Unrecognizable: It took three-and-a-half hours a day to transform Robbie into the Virgin Queen using a red wig, prosthetics and white face paint

In order to transform herself into the legendary Virgin Queen, Robbie wears a red wig, prosthetics and white face paint.

It took three-and-a-half hours a day to do her hair and makeup.

The actress recently revealed, while doing publicity for the film, that the part was incredibly challenging.

'I could barely move my face because there was so much prosthetics. It's glued-down plastic on your face,' she explained during a TV interview in her native Australia.

'The clothes were very restrictive, as they were at the time, she added. 'It helped - I felt claustrophobic, I felt trapped.'

The experience did help her in empathizing with the character who, she said, had created an image and then became a prisoner of it.

'It was very alienating. And I felt very lonely,' she commented.

Challenging: 'I could barely move my face because there was so much prosthetics. It's glued-down plastic on your face,' she explained in an interview. 'I felt claustrophobic, I felt trapped'Farms run by Japanese Americans once numbered around 200 on the Peninsula. Now, Rancho Palos Verdes will evict the last such farm next summer.She covered British Vogue at the age of 15.

And Uma Thurman still has all her model moves at 48 as she proved Sunday night in New York.

She arrived for the Pre-Fall 2019 Versace presentation in a stunning red dress that molded itself to her fabulous figure.

Fabulous: Uma Thurman, 48, arrived for the Pre-Fall 2019 Versace presentation in New York Sunday night wearing a stunning red dress that molded itself to her fabulous figure

The dress had three-quarter sleeves and a scoop neckline and was gathered at the waist.

The Pulp Fiction and Kill Bill star stepped out in black strappy sandal heels.

She wore red polish on her finger and toe nails and splashed glossy red color across her lips.

Her shoulder-length blonde hair was loose and swept across her forehead from a side parting, and she added stunning diamond earrings.

Stylish: The dress had three-quarter sleeves and a scoop neckline and was gathered at the waist. The Pulp Fiction and Kill Bill star stepped out in black strappy sandal heels

Looking good: Her shoulder-length blonde hair was loose and swept across her forehead from a side parting, and she added stunning diamond earrings

Thurman has signed up to star in a series for Netflix about a woman who has a heart transplant and the starts to display different character traits.

Chambers is set to debut some time in 2019 and co-stars Scandal's Tony Goldwyn.

She's also filmed the comedy The War With Grandpa with Robert de Niro and Christopher Walken. The film does not yet have a North American distributor.

Lady in red: Thurman arrived at the event in a warm winter coat belted at the waistJohn Cena reveals why he's growing his hair out for the first time on Monday's holiday edition of Ellen, as he's sporting a new, shaggier 'do in his quest to step out of his comfort zone.

Cena, 41, said he is 'embracing the uncomfortable for once' in deviating from the close-cropped buzz-cut fans have grown accustomed to.

'It's weird to see you with hair!' Ellen told the West Newbury, Massachusetts native, who grew out his locks over six months while filming a movie in China.

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The champ is here: John Cena, 41, reveals why he's growing his hair out for the first time on Monday's holiday edition of Ellen, as he's sporting a new, shaggier 'do in his quest to step out of his comfort zone

Cena told the daytime star that he's kept his locks extremely short 'as long as I can remember,' and that he's still adjusting to the change.

'Why not embrace the uncomfortable for once?' Cena asked, noting that he's 'totally uncomfortable' with his current mane and wishes he could go get his trusty $8 haircut.

'Now I'm throwing product in my head, I don't know what I'm doing,' he groused, sarcastically noting, 'It's awesome, it's great.'

Cena noted the efficiency of the close cut, as he could 'get out of bed' and be 'ready to go' with the short 'do.

Change is good: Cena told the daytime star that he's kept his locks extremely short 'as long as I can remember,' and that he's still adjusting to the change

Bulky: The WWE mainstay posed like another famous pro wrestler, Hulk Hogan

'It's been awesome, because WWE fans are very dedicated and very devoted,' he said, joking that when he returned with his new, eye-catching hairdo after growing out his hair, fans would tell him he's ruined their childhood.

'I'm just trying to figure my life out,' he said. 'It's cool to be able to try something new.'

Ready to go: Ellen gave the wrestler-actor special towels to toss to the fans, as its an in-ring trademark of his

Next up? Asked about rumors he could play Captain America in the future, Cena said he believes he could thrive in the role

Elsewhere in the appearance, Ellen asked Cena about rumors he could be next in line to play the role of Marvel superhero Captain America after Chris Evans announced in October he's leaving the film series.

Cena played coy, but made clear he'd be willing to don the blue suit and mask of the superhero: 'I'll totally do it - I totally will - I think I'll be a good Captain America.'

Cena appears in the upcoming film Bumblebee, which co-stars Hailee Steinfeld, and features Justin Theroux and Angela Bassett in vocal roles. It hits theaters December 21.She was married to Scientologist Tom Cruise from 1990 to 2001.

And now, Oscar-winning actress Nicole Kidman, 51, has revealed the real reason why she has stopped discussing her movie star ex-husband.

Speaking in the Observer magazine, the Hollywood star said the decision was made out of 'respect' for her current husband, Keith Urban, 51.

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'It's nice to be able to say that': Actress Nicole Kidman, 51, (above) has revealed the real reason she has stopped speaking publicly about ex-husband Tom Cruise. Couple pictured in the 90s

While doing the promotional rounds for her new film, Boy Erased, Nicole was asked about any parallels between being a preacher's wife, and her time as Tom's wife.

Explaining her personal decision to stop talking about the Mission Impossible star, Nicole said that time in her life had finished.

'I have a husband now,' she reportedly told the publication, 'I feel out of respect for him I don't want to talk about that. It's been 20 years.'

'I feel out of respect for him I don't want to talk about that. It's been 20 years': Nicole (above) said she didn't want to speak about her former marriage out of respect for Keith (above)

She continued: 'I have come to the point where I can say: 'I am not going to keep discussing my ex' It's nice for me to be able to say that.'

Nicole and Tom were one of the most high-profile power couples in Hollywood in the 1990s, when the pair fell in love on the set of film Days of Thunder.

The former couple share two adopted children, son Connor, 23, and daughter Bella, 25, but has had little public contact since the split.

Family: The Hours actress has been married to country superstar Keith since 2006. The couple share two daughters Sunday Rose, 10, and Faith Margaret, 7, (above) in March

Nicole has remained silent for a number of years on her former husband, with her telling New York magazine in October she was 'reluctant' to speak about him.

'Being married to Tom Cruise at 22 is something I'm always reluctant to talk about, because I'm married now to the man who is my great love, and it almost feels disrespectful,' Kidman said.

Earlier this month, Nicole did speak about her famous marriage in light of the #MeToo movement.

'it's interesting that the power of another man gives you respect,' Nicole did speak about her marriage to movie star Tom in light of the #MeToo movement. Pictured this month, in London

Speaking to WHO magazine this month, the actress said being married to movie star Tom helped her to avoid being sexually harassed.

'I don't know why the culture is set up like that and we aren't just protected anyway, but it's interesting that the power of another man gives you respect,' she said.

In a recent interview with The Today Show in the US, Nicole explained that her marriage afforded her a lifestyle that largely kept her away from sexual predators.

'Because I was married at 23 years old, I wasn't going to parties or I wasn't going out a lot. I was pretty much at home,' she said.

'I had my first child at 25 and I was a married, I was in a family. So my sense of being in the world was I was working, or I was at home.'He's revealed that he's fascinated with the British Royal Family, especially since Meghan Markle became a member.

But Will Ferrell suffered a rather embarrassing snub at the hands of a different royal, Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden.

The 51-year-old told the Fitzy & Wippa radio program that he sent a birthday gift to the Swedish princess, only to be rebuffed.

'I never heard back': Royal Family enthusiast Will Ferrell recalls being embarrassingly snubbed by a princess after sending an unusual birthday gift

The comedian told the radio hosts: 'I havent met any royals. I havent been invited to meet any royals.

'The closet I got [is] I wrote a letter to the Crown Princess of Sweden because I think we share the same birthday - July 16.'

'And I sent her a 20 gift certificate to [Swedish clothing retailer] H&M and I never heard back,' he lamented.

He tried! 'I wrote a letter to the crown Princess of Sweden because I think we share the same birthday. I sent her a 20 gift certificate to H&M and I never heard back,' Will lamented. Pictured: Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden with husband Prince Daniel of Sweden

Fan! Will revealed that he's fascinated with the British Royal Family, especially since Meghan Markle (pictured) joined it, and he believes Buckingham Palace has 'crumpets in every room'

While the radio hosts wondered if Will had sent the gift as a child, he wryly revealed: 'This was five years ago'.

Adding insult to injury, Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden, actually has her birthday on July 14.

Recently shooting mystery film Holmes & Watson in London, Will went on to explain that he developed a fascination with Buckingham Palace.

Local production: Recently shooting mystery film Holmes & Watson (pictured) in London, Will went on to explain that he developed a fascination with Buckingham Palace.

'Have you walked around Buckingham Palace? Theres a part of all us that wants to hop that wall, and walk around in there,' he said.

The actor has some fanciful ideas about what he might find inside, describing a fantasy more akin to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory than the Queen's residence.

He added, joking: '[I'd] eat some crumpets. Thered be so many crumpets. There would be crumpets in every room.'She dazzles on the Victoria's Secret runway with her sensational figure and stunning beauty.

So it's little wonder Sara Sampaio stood out from the slew of stars when she party-hopped across New York City on Sunday.

The Victoria's Secret Angel, 27, exhibited her fabulous figure in a Clueless-inspired scanty crop top and a teeny miniskirt.

Pin-credible style: Victoria's Secret Angel Sara Sampaio stunned in a crop top and a microscopic miniskirt in Clueless-inspired ensemble as she party hopped in NYC on Sunday

First the Portuguese born beauty attended the Versace Fashion Show Fall 2019 before she appeared at the Victoria's Secret viewing party at Spring Studios.

The magazine cover girl strutted her stuff across the Big Apple in her steep heels but she didn't have time to change between her social occasions.

Sara added a blazer in the same pattern of her crop top and miniskirt to smarten up her incredibly racy look.

Flaunt it: The Victoria's Secret Angel, 27, exhibited her fabulous figure in a Clueless-inspired scanty crop top and a teeny miniskirt

Party time: First the Portuguese born beauty attended the Versace Fashion Show Fall 2019 before she appeared at the Victoria's Secret viewing party at Spring Studios

Suits you! Sara added a blazer in the same pattern of her crop top and miniskirt to smarten up her incredibly racy look

The Portuguese Golden Globes winner for Best Female Model (2011, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2016) also toted a classy boxy handbag.

Usually on the catwalk herself, Sara enjoyed taking a backseat at the Versace show where she watched on as the models took to the floor.

It was always Sara's dream to walk for Victoria's Secret and she didn't make her debut until 2013 and she later gained her angel wings in 2015.

Standing tall: The magazine cover girl strutted her stuff across the Big Apple in her steep heels but she didn't have time to change between her social occasions

How to accessorise: The Portuguese Golden Globes winner for Best Female Model (2011, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2016) also toted a classy boxy handbag

Appearances: Usually on the catwalk herself, Sara enjoyed taking a backseat at the Versace show where she watched on as the models took to the floor

History: It was always Sara's dream to walk for Victoria's Secret and she didn't make her debut until 2013 and she later gained her angel wings in 2015

The model revealed the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is her 'time to shine' so she soaks up every minute the buzzing atmosphere.

She told BEAUTY CREW in November: 'I always say this to everyone  really enjoy the moment because its going to pass so fast.

'It really is your time to shine so just really take it all in. Have fun!'She dazzled on the runway earlier in the evening in a jaw-dropping ensemble.

And Emily Ratajkowski, 27, swapped her haute couture ensemble for a more low-key look as she left the Versace runway show in at the American Stock Exchange Building in New York on Sunday night alongside Kaia Gerber, 17.

The model-turned-actress battled the chilly temperatures in the Big Apple as she wrapped a shearling-lined grey denim jacket.

Wrapped up: Emily Ratajkowski, 27, swapped her haute couture ensemble for a more low-key look as she left the Versace runway show in New York on Sunday night

Following suit: Kaia Gerber, 17, left venue moments after Emily following their appearance on the runway

The Gone Girl actress layered her oversized jacket over a white tee, which she tucked into her high-waisted charcoal-coloured jeans.

Adding a splash of print to her ensemble, she donned a pair of statement knee-high snakeskin boots and draped her black leather handbag over her shoulder.

Emily remained in the same make-up as she was seen in on the runway and sported the same wet look 'do as she left the star-studded event.

Following Emily's off-duty style, Kaia, who is the daughter of acclaimed supermodel Cindy Crawford, oozed nineties chic in a long black leather jacket.

Model behaviour: The model-turned-actress battled the chilly temperatures in the Big Apple as she wrapped a shearling-lined grey denim jacket

Shades of grey: The Gone Girl actress layered her oversized jacket over a white tee, which she tucked into her high-waisted charcoal-coloured jeans

She layered her long garment over a white T-shirt and dark-wash denim mom jeans.

The young model teamed her casual appearance with a pair of white Chuck Taylor Converse while working the same make-up and hair as she did during the fashion event.

The pair walked alongside the biggest names in fashion, including Gigi Hadid, Irina Shayk and Hailey Baldwin.

It wasn't only a star-studded runway but also FROW with Blake Lively, Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, Bradley Cooper and Lupita Nyong'o making an appearance.

Getting chic done: The young model teamed her casual appearance with a pair of white Chuck Taylor Converse while working the same make-up and hair as she did during the fashion event

Posing up a storm: She layered her long garment over a white T-shirt and dark-wash denim mom jeans

Flare-y nice: Paris had all eyes on her as she sashayed out of the venue

Emily's appearance in the show comes after she was forced to defend herself after an Australian journalist labelled her 'difficult' and 'rude' at the GQ Man of the Year Awards.

In leaked messages obtained by Daily Mail Australia on Sunday, the American beauty said she was 'disappointed' by the blatant 'sexism'.

'It's extremely disappointing that in 2018 when a woman makes a business decision to protect herself, she is still called 'difficult',' the message read.

'Attempting to slander a woman's name because she wouldn't talk to you? I'd say that's pretty classic sexism.'

That's a wrap: Blake shielded herself from the cold weather in a stylish cream coat

Effortless: She layered over her tiny silver mini dress as she left the star-studded runway show

Double denim: Irina Shayk dazzled in a denim shirt with leather trousers

Walk this way: Bradley Cooper was sartorially in sync in a denim jacket and blue chinos

Smitten: Bradley and Irina looked more loved-up than ever as they cosied up to one another in the back of the car

Emily's response came after a journalist publicly criticised the American model on Instagram.

'I'm asked daily who the worst, rudest or most difficult celebrity is that I've met or interviewed. Today I can categorically say Emily Ratajkowski is that person,' the Instagram post read.

'It is such a shame that [Emily] behind the scenes is a completely different person to the incredibly well spoken woman who accepted an award last night with such beautiful and eloquent words.'

Legs eleven! Candice Swanepoel looked sensational in her military style coat and Dr Martens as she threw a peace sign to photographers whilst leaving the glitzy party

Heading home: Diane Kruger slipped into a car as she waited for her beau, Norman Reedus, to jump in and join her

Chirpy: Norman seemed in good spirits as he waved goodbye to passers-by

Chirpy: The couple were all-smiles as they headed home after watching the show together

Top of the crops: Sara Sampaio braved the cold as she decided not to wear a coat over the top of her flesh-flashing co-ord

Pin-credible: Her look highlighted her taut stomach and enviably tanned and toned pins

Speaking to Mamamia after the awkward run-in, the irate journalist doubled down on his criticism.

'You know, we get these big names out here and we have all these rules about what we can and can't ask, and I'm sick of it. It's not journalism,' he complained.

'She was late  so I thought she'd start by apologising, but she just acknowledged me in a really rude way.'

Out on the town: Teyana let her hair down as she strutted into the party with a fierce expressionShe never fails to impress with her stunning sartorial sense at red carpet events.

And Blake Lively looked simply sensational as she attended the star-studded Versace pre-fall 2019 runway presentation at the American Stock Exchange in New York on Sunday night.

The actress, 31, dazzled in a shimmering silver backless minidress as she joined the likes of Kim Kardashian, Hailey Baldwin and Emily Ratajkowski at the high-profile fashion event.

Bringing sexy: Blake Lively looked sensational as she attended the star-studded Versace pre-fall 2019 runway presentation at the American Stock Exchange in New York on Sunday night

Rocking an eighties inspired look, the Gossip Girl star's Versace gown boasted gold detailing and a gorgeous open back.

Adding even more glitz to her attire, the A Simple Favour leading lady teamed her outfit with bedazzled, gold Louboutin pumps and a host of Lorraine Schwartz jewels.

Posing up a storm on the red carpet, the Age of Adaline actress styled her locks in crimped waves, while opting for a pink lip and perfectly highlighted cheekbones.

When leaving the star-studded runway show, Blake shielded herself from the cold weather in a stylish cream coat that she layered over her tiny mini dress.

All the glitz: The A Simple Favour star, 31, looked sensational in a dazzling silver ensemble when arriving at the event

Picture perfect: Posing up a storm on the red carpet, the Age of Adaline star styled her locks in crimped waves, while opting for a pink lip and perfectly highlighted cheekbones

Stunner: Featuring a high-low hemline, the eye-catching outfit highlighted the actress' enviably-toned legs

Blake recently revealed that she hopes her latest movie A Simple Favour will open the doors to more female-led films in Hollywood.

Speaking at the film's London premiere, she said: 'The film has done so well in the States which were really happy about, because everybodys like "OMG we just need to make more films about women".

'It's weird for me because some of my favourite films are about women - Whatever Happened To Baby Jane is one of my fave movies ever made, and its kind of similar in tone to this film.

'So film-making used to be like that in the 40s, with Bette Davies and Joan Crawford, and then it kind of petered out and became like men chasing each other around.'

Glam: Rocking an eighties inspired look, the Gossip Girl actress stunned in a shimmering Versace gown that boasted gold detailing and a gorgeous open back

Star-studded: Blake sat front row alongside Lupita Nyong'o and Bradley Cooper

Gal pals: Blake left the star-studded event with close friend Gigi Hadid, who walked in the star-studded presentation

That's a wrap: Blake shielded herself from the cold weather in a stylish cream coat that she layered over her tiny silver mini dress as she left the runway show

Blake also dished what it was like to play a more comedic role, revealing that being around husband Ryan Reynolds 'sharpens' her comedy.

'Getting to do a comedic part with Anna [Kendrick] is just like Im so excited. Its incredibly intimidating, but heightened,' she said.

'So much fun and my husband comes from a comedy background, so just being with him sharpens my comedy, unlike any crash course I can take.'

Blake and Ryan are parents to two daughters; James, three, and Ines, two.

All in the details: Adding even more glitz to her attire, Blake teamed her outfit with bedazzled, gold Louboutin pumps and a host of Lorraine Schwartz jewelsIt was recently revealed that she won't crown this year's I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! winner, despite being the reigning Queen Of The Jungle.

And Georgia Toffolo proved to be in full relaxation mode as she soaked up the sunshine in Australia on Monday afternoon, after jetting into the country this weekend.

The former Made In Chelsea star, 24, set pulses racing as she slipped her slender frame into a deeply plunging white swimsuit, while relaxing poolside at her hotel.

Living it up: Georgia Toffolo soaked up the sunshine in Australia on Monday afternoon, but won't hand her crown over as per the long-standing tradition of I'm A Celebrity

Oozing her effortlessly chic style, the TV personality looked radiant in her perilously low-cut swimsuit, embellished with lace trimmings.

The reality star mixed glamour with comfort as she sported a pair of white box-fresh canvas trainers.

Looking every inch the style maven, Toff accessorised with a pair of circular-framed sunglasses.

The blonde swept her tresses into a loosely tousled bun to reveal her striking visage, which was enhanced with light strokes of foundation.

Turning up the heat: The former Made In Chelsea star, 24, set pulses racing as she slipped her slender frame into a deeply plunging white swimsuit, while relaxing poolside at her hotel

All eyes on her: Oozing her effortlessly chic style, the TV personality looked radiant in her perilously low-cut swimsuit, embellished with lace trimmings

Sporty chic: The reality star mixed glamour with comfort as she sported a pair of white box-fresh canvas trainers

Georgia lapped up the sunshine as she listened to music and read a newspaper, before enjoying a sun-soaked stroll along the country's scenic coastline.

Despite making the long trip back to Australia, it was reported last week that the outgoing Queen Of The Jungle will not pass the torch to the 2018 winner in a week's time - for reasons currently unknown.

It will be the first time in six years that the reigning champ doesn't personally crown the latest winner.

Looking good: The blonde swept her tresses into a loosely tousled bun to reveal her striking visage, which was enhanced with light strokes of foundation

All in the details: Looking every inch the style maven, Toff accessorised with a pair of circular-framed sunglasses

An I'm A Celeb... insider told MailOnline: 'Toff is due to fly out to Australia this week, for a stint on [sister show] Extra Camp. But she'll be flying back after that, to the UK.

'There's still about another week of the show left, after she returns. And there aren't plans for her to go back again.

'This means she won't be there to personally crown whoever wins this current season.'

Keeping herself updated: Georgia lapped up the sunshine as she listened to music and read a newspaper

Sun-kissed: The star enjoyed a sun-soaked stroll along the country's scenic coastline

A show source went on: 'Since the show began in 2002 it's never been part of the main show to have the previous winner specifically come back to Australia and hand over to new King/Queen.

'It only happened the past two years because Scarlett Moffatt and Vicky Pattison were there as ITV2 presenters.

'And it only happened the two years previous to that because Carl Fogerty and Charlie Brooks were there as ITV2 guests.

Shock: Despite making the long trip back to Australia, it was reported last week that the outgoing Queen Of The Jungle will not pass the torch to the 2018 winner in a week's time - for reasons currently unknown

Breaking tradition: It will be the first time in six years that the reigning champ doesn't personally crown the latest winner (pictured with 2017 winner Scarlett Moffatt last year)

'ITV2 no longer have celebrity UK guests on its final few shows as they have the evicted celebs and friends and family on set instead - this has happened for quite a few years now.'

MailOnline have contacted ITV for comment.

The last few years have seen the exiting victor on hand to pass over the jungle wreath that the new winner wears on their head when they win the show. As well as this, there's a totem-like staff that comes with the crown, also passed along by the ex-Jungle King or Queen.

Busy bee: An I'm A Celeb... insider told MailOnline: 'Toff is due to fly out to Australia this week, for a stint on [sister show] Extra Camp. But she'll be flying back after that, to the UK'

Claims: 'There's still about another week of the show left, after she returns. And there aren't plans for her to go back again', they added

Reports: 'This means she won't be there to personally crown whoever wins this current season', the source continued

The last time there was a break in this tradition was in 2012, when Dougie Poynter was not present to crown Charlie Brooks.

Since then, Charlie returned to crown Kian Egan, who came back to pass the torch to Carl 'Foggy' Fogarty, who was on hand to crown Vicky Pattison.

She then returned to crown Scarlett Moffatt, who in turn crowned Toff last year.

Details: 'ITV2 no longer have celebrity UK guests on its final few shows as they have the evicted celebs and friends and family on set instead', they went on

Timeline: Thus far, there have been 10 Jungle Kings and seven Jungle Queens, with women scooping the coveted crown for the last three years running

Thus far, there have been 10 Jungle Kings and seven Jungle Queens, with women scooping the coveted crown for the last three years running.

Both Vicky and Scarlett have acted as hosts for sister show, I'm A Celebrity... Extra Camp, readily on hand to pass over their crowns.

But prior to that, the exiting Kings and Queens flew over to Australia especially to mark the occasion.

Toff, meanwhile, has been hosting an I'm A Celeb... news bulletin segment on This Morning.

I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! airs nightly from 9PM on ITV.Advertisement

She's triumphed on this series of I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here, winning over viewers with her hosting skills and jungle wardrobe.

And Holly Willoughby enjoyed some downtime from her hectic schedule on Monday as she hit the beach on Australia's Gold Coast with her husband Dan Baldwin and their three children Harry, nine, Belle, seven, and Chester, four.

Holly, 37, showed off her legs in a pair of denim shorts as she larked around with her family, while TV producer Dan played photographer for the day.

Beach life: Holly Willoughby enjoyed some downtime from her hectic schedule on Monday as she hit the beach on Australia's Gold Coast with her husband Dan Baldwin and their three children Harry, nine, Belle, seven, and Chester, four

Holly teamed her tiny denim shorts with a sporty black swimsuit, which displayed her bronzed figure, with her tan looking particularly impressive after almost a month Down Under.

The ITV star left her short blonde locks loose and sported minimal makeup for her hours away from the cameras, finishing her look with dark shades.

Holly was in great spirits, laughing out loud as Dan snapped away on his phone after the fun-loving couple buried their three kids in the sand.

Strike a pose: TV producer Dan played photographer during the afternoon at the beach, as Holly posed with her children, who were buried up their their shoulders in the sand

Snap happy: Holly, 37, showed off her legs in a pair of denim shorts and a black swimsuit as she larked around with her family

Holly flaunted her legs as she laid down to pose on the sand as Dan, wearing a white vest and shorts, got the best angles behind the camera.

Fans rushed to Holly's defense over the weekend after she was targeted by nasty trolls on social media for taking her children out of school during her I'm A Celebrity presenting stint.

The TV host posted a number of adorable photos on Instagram on Saturday of her reuniting with her little ones after a few weeks apart.

Beach wardrobe: Holly teamed her tiny denim shorts with a sporty black swimsuit, which displayed her bronzed figure, with her tan looking particularly impressive after almost a month Down Under

In one shot, the ITV star is seen grinning ear-to-ear as she rushes to hug her daughter Belle while sons Harry and Chester look on.

Captioning it, she wrote: 'Wish every ad break would start like this...'

Yet, the heartwarming photos have caused outrage in the comments section, with keyboard warriors bashing her for taking her children out of school.

Laugh a minute: Holly laughed out loud after her and Dan buried their kids in the sand, ready for some fun photos

Family: Holly has been making the most of her downtime in between her hectic TV schedule, spending afternoons with her family on the local beach

Supporting her: Dan has taken a break from his own busy TV career to join his wife in Oz with their children

One wrote: 'Why aren't her children at school, looks like she'll be getting a fine!'

'Hope your kids have permission from school to be with you Holly,' another shared. 'Why aren't they at school?'

A fourth posted: 'Your kids should be at school not there you should be paying for them to stay at your hotel. I'd make sure it would come of your fee.'

Hard at work: Holly got stuck in, kneeling down on her hands and knees to dig holes for her three delighted children

Tanned: The TV star has been working hard on her tan during her time in Australia, looked gorgeously bronzed

Hands on: Holly took charge of popping up a tent for a spot of shade during the day in the blazing sunshine

In light of the negative commentary, Holly's fans leapt to her defence as they fired back at the nasty trolls and showed their support for the ITV darling.

A fan shared: 'She can't win! People saying why aren't the kids with her how can she leave them, then when they see them say how can she take them out of school jeeez!'

'They have a full time tutor with them out there so get down off your high horse,' another said.

Mission accomplished: After wrestling in the sea breeze, the blonde managed to get the tent up, moving her kids' backpacks inside to keep everything cool

Wardrobe ency: Holly has been wowing I'm A Celebrity viewers with her on-camera ensembles and looked equally amazing on her afternoon off

And pose! Dan had a look of concentration on his face as he made sure to capture all the angles of his family

'They're being schooled whilst in Australia,' a loyal follower wrote. 'She couldn't leave her kids for months overseas.

'Good luck to her at least she's thinking about her family wherever she goes in the world. Obviously she's allowed to take them with her as long as they're being privately schooled so they don't miss out on anything regarding their school work.'

A fan posted: 'Leave her alone she has permission to take her kids out... and they are still doing school work plus her youngest is only 4 so back off when it comes to her children so go for it Holly'.

Say cheese: Holly smiled lovingly at her brood as they peered up at their dad in the sunshine

Calling it a day? It was soon time to pack up for Holly and her family, as she prepared to head back to their Aussie base

One for Instagram? Holly has been sharing snaps of her Oz adventure with her 4.6 million social media followers

'Holly's children have a tutor so there is no problem,' another wrote. 'The life experience they are gaining too is invaluable.'

Holly has proven to be a huge success after she agreed to stand in for hosting alongside close friend Dec, after Ant McPartlin announced in August that he would be taking a break from hosting duties following his drink-drive arrest in March.

Holly stated at the time: 'I couldn't be more excited to have been asked to stand alongside Dec for the next jungle adventure.

What a trip! Holly has proven to be a huge success in her first year as I'm A Celebrity host after she agreed to stand in for pal Ant McPartlin alongside Declan Donnelly

Here for the adventure: Holly explained that she only agreed to the high profile role after making sure her children could come along for the duration of filming

Juggling act: In September, she revealed on This Morning that she had spent the summer organising the 'logistics' of her five-week move to Australia

'I love Ant and want to send him my best wishes and support for a continued recovery. These are big shoes, not to fill, but just to keep warm for a little bit.'

Following the announcement attention soon turned whether her three children will be joining her Down Under.

In September, she revealed on This Morning that she had spent the summer organising the 'logistics' of her five-week move to Australia.

Fun and work: The doting mum revealed that had hired private tutors to keep her children up-to-date with their school work and credited her kids' headmaster as 'amazing'

Time off: While Holly wakes at 2am and films I'm A Celebrity every morning, she takes afternoons off with her family

My girl: The mum held her daughter Belle's hand as they headed for a dip in the ocean on the deserted beach

Husband: Dan and Holly parents have flown out to be with the star as she juggles motherhood and work

Doting dad: Dan sweetly slipped some sunglasses on his youngest, Chester, four, after digging the three holes

She told co-host Phillip Schofield at the time: 'When I first found out, it's obviously bitter sweet, but it was exciting.

You try and work out when you'll go and how long for. The kids are coming with me so I've been speaking with the school seeing how that's all going to work.

'Dan's coming with me, then all of a sudden that's it, logistics are all sorted and you go oh, there's going to be spiders and stuff.'

And following the speculation, she revealed that had hired private tutors to keep her children up-to-date with their school work and credited her kids' headmaster as 'amazing'.

Holly admitted: 'If the kids couldn't come then it would have been a completely different ball game and I would have had to have a long, hard think about it.'

Triumph: Holly has won over viewers with her natural banter with close pal and now, co-host, Declan DonnellyThey formed a lifelong friendship when they starred together in acclaimed ITV drama series Broadchurch.

And Jodie Whittaker, 36, and Olivia Colman, 44, appeared ecstatic to be reunited with one another as they attended the 21st British Independent Film Awards at Old Billingsgate in London on Sunday evening.

They pair hugged and pulled joyous expressions for the camera following the ceremony as the pals celebrated Olivia's Best Actress win for her turn in The Favourite.

Happy: Jodie Whittaker, 36, and Olivia Colman, 44, appeared ecstatic to be reunited with one another as they attended the 21st British Independent Film Awards at Old Billingsgate in London on Sunday evening

The Crown star Olivia opted for an elegant silky black dress, and paired it with some sparkling floral design earrings and statement rings by David Morris.

She accentuated her natural beauty with a subtle smokey eye and a pink lip, while wearing her cropped locks in a natural wavy style as she beamed for the camera.

Following Olivia's lead, Jodie dazzled in a vibrant pink gown with a bold peplum and cold-shoulder detail.

She complemented her head-turning ensemble by styling her blonde locks into sleek style and worked a glowing beauty look.

Pals: They pair hugged and pulled joyous expressions for the camera following the ceremony as the pals celebrated Olivia's Best Actress win for her turn in The Favourite

All smiles: The Crown star Olivia opted for an elegant silky black dress, and paired it with some sparkling floral design earrings and statement rings by David Morris

Delight: She accentuated her natural beauty with a subtle smokey eye and a pink lip, while wearing her cropped locks in a natural wavy style as she beamed for the camera

Enjoying the festivities, Olivia and Jodie at one point supportively held hands as they partied the night away together at the star-studded event.

The pals have become national treasures in recent month as their careers soar and they tackle some of the most iconic British TV roles; Olivia as Queen Elizabeth II in The Crown and Jodie as the first female Doctor Who.

Initially, the pair were both linked to the Doctor Who role last year, with Jodie ultimately landing the sci-fi role and taking over the Tardis from Peter Capaldi.

Having fun: Following Olivia's lead, Jodie dazzled in a vibrant pink gown with a bold peplum and cold-shoulder detail

Fun times: Olivia jumped into the Photobooth with The Favourite co-star Emma Stone

Handsome: American actor Josh Harnett pulled a number of animated looks

And while Olivia was vocal about her wish to land the role, she couldn't have been more elated for her friend but had 'no idea' Whittaker had landed the part until she announced it.

She told BBC News in 2017: 'I was really impressed because we've seen each other since shes found out  I was just like "my god" when I found out.

'She'll do it better than anyone, Im so proud of her.'

Watch time is it? Dominic Cooper anxiously gazed at his watch in one shoot

All smiles: Chris Noth posed in the booth alongside Elliott Grove

The award-winning actress said at the time that it was only right that they finally had a female taking on the role of the Doctor.

She added: 'Its a massive, massive thing that shes undertaken and she will be great. Its not her job to fly the flag for all of womankind  the creatives have made the decision that part should be a woman and its about time.'

Olivia was announced as the successor to Claire Foy in Netflix mega hit The Crown in October. She will star alongside Helena Bonham-Carter and Tobias Menzies.THE EU ambassadors visit, the Home Owners Policy, and the South Bank Resort and Marina Project were discussed at the latest meeting of the Cabinet on Monday, November 19.





Governor John Freeman chaired the 26th meeting at the Hilly Ewing Building in Providenciales.





All ministers were present except Hon. Karen Malcolm, Minister of Education, Youth, Culture and Library Services.





At this meeting Cabinet:

-Agreed to the Treatment of All-Inclusive Resorts paper to advance the Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism (Taxation) (Amnesty) Bill 2018 to the House of Assembly.





-Received a paper presented by the Hon. Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, as Minister of Finance, on the draft consultancy report on the redevelopment and modernisation of South Dock, Providenciales. Cabinet noted the recommendations of the board of directors of the TCI Ports Authority in relation to the report.





-Approved the appointment of Ricardo D Gardiner as the Oppositions Appointed Member on the Local Government Review and Modernisation Committee.





-Approved the draft Home Owners Policy which includes incentives to first time and existing homeowners to be implemented with effect from April 1, 2019.





-Approved the appointment of the Commissioner of Labour as the Registrar of Trade Unions in accordance with Section 5 of the Trade Unions Ordinance.





-Agreed to the Jury (Amendment) Bill 2018 for advancement to the House of Assembly.





-Received as update from the premier on the TCI National Disaster Recovery Task Force on the work of the task force.





-Advised the governor to agree to execute the framework agreement on compensations for compulsory acquisition of land by the Government.





-Noted the financial performance of the TCI Statutory Bodies for the period April to June 2018 as reported by the Accountant General in the First Quarter Financial Report 2018/19 submitted in accordance with Section 148 (1) of the Public Finance Management Regulations.





-Agreed for Invest TCI and the Attorney Generals Chambers to commence negotiations, on a conditional basis, between TCIG and Windward Long Bay on the proposed South Bank Resort and Marina Project.





-Approved a draft TCIG Increment Policy paper governing the implementation of increments for the TCI Public Service.





-Received an update from the premier and the Ministry of Finance on the critical work outstanding with regards to the EU Code of Conduct Group: the COCGs response to TCIGs latest correspondence, policy decisions made and the upcoming legislation to be presented to Cabinet.





-Received an update from Deputy Governor Anya Williams on the visit of the EU Ambassador visit last week.



She's been relishing in some quality time with her family as she supports her younger brother during his Stateside hosting stint with EXTRA.

And Jess Wright continued to spend time with her siblings Mark and Natayla and their mother Carol as they headed out for dinner to Craig's restaurant in Los Angeles, California, on Sunday evening.

The former TOWIE star, 33, put her best fashion foot forward as she sported an off shoulder cable-knit jumper, tied in with ripped skinny jeans.

Family time: Jess Wright headed out for dinner with her siblings Mark and Natayla and their mother Carol (pictured) at Craig's restaurant in Los Angeles, California, on Sunday

Amping up the glamour, the TV personality strutted along the streets of the Californian city in a pair of pointed beige heels.

The brunette continued to display her sartorial flair as she accessorised with a brown scarf by Fendi and a diamond crucifix necklace.

Jess enhanced her beauty with her signature full-on make-up, and framed her stunning visage with her chocolate brown waves.

Cutting a dapper figure, reality star-turned-host Mark accentuated his muscular physique in a denim shirt and grey jeans.

In good company: The former TOWIE star, 33, was joined by her siblings Mark, 31 (left), and Natayla, 18 (right)

Chic: The TV personality put her best fashion foot forward as she sported an off shoulder cable-knit jumper, tied in with ripped skinny jeans

Standing tall: Amping up the glamour, she strutted along the streets of the Californian city in a pair of pointed beige heels

The husband of actress Michelle Keegan donned a pair of grey trainers and injected a hint of pazzazz into his look with a gold watch.

IMG model Natayla proved she's just as fashionable as her older siblings as she went for a double denim look, featuring a slightly distressed jacket, straight-leg jeans and a turtleneck cropped jumper.

The brunette caught the eye with her quilted chain-strap handbag by Gucci and gold hooped earrings.

Handsome: Cutting a dapper figure, reality star-turned-host Mark accentuated his muscular physique in a denim shirt and grey jeans

All in the details: The husband of actress Michelle Keegan donned a pair of grey trainers and injected a hint of pazzazz into his look with a gold watch

She swept her tresses back into a slick ponytail to reveal her stunning features, which was complemented with brown-toned make-up.

Earlier this week, the Wright family flew out to visit Mark, who is currently residing in LA to continue his role as an EXTRA television presenter.

Jess' carefree appearance comes after she spoke about why she confronted her ex, Strictly dancer Giovanni Pernice, 28 at the Pride Of Britain Awards last month.

Looking good: IMG model Natayla proved she's just as fashionable as her older siblings as she went for a double denim look, featuring a slightly distressed jacket and straight-leg jeans

Glam touches: The brunette caught the eye with her quilted chain-strap handbag by Gucci and gold hooped earrings

Speaking with OK! Magazine, she explained: 'We hadn't seen each other since we split. I didnt choose to bump into him that night.

'I definitely wasnt shouting, I was just being passionate, as I always am when Ive got an opinion.'

In the video of the former flames' clash, Jess furiously branded Giovanni 'full of s**t', before she was heard saying: 'You broke my heart, you lied to me'.

Heading off: The group jumped into a car as they headed home following their dinner at the LA hotspot

Family first: The Wrights have been relishing in some quality time as they supports Mark during his Stateside hosting stint with EXTRA

Jess and Giovanni were first romantically linked in December when they were spotted on a date by eagle-eyed onlookers.

The lovebirds enjoyed a cosy drink at Soho House before they went onto watch West End production Dream Girls.

In April however, things came to a crashing close when a source told The Sun: 'He was really into Jess and did want to make a go of it, but he struggled with the attention she gets and her popularity.'He was honoured with the tribute award at the 17th Marrakech International Film Festival on Saturday evening.

And it seemed Robert De Niro didn't want the party to end as he attended the annual event's screening of The Untouchables at Jemaa El Fna Place in Morocco, on Sunday.

The Hollywood superstar, 75, looked his usual suave-self in a black blazer which he teamed with a smart grey T-shirt.

Fun times: Robert De Niro didn't want the party to end as he attended the 17th Marrakech International Film Festival's screening of The Untouchables at Jemaa El Fna Place in Morocco

Finishing his trademark look with formal matching trousers, the Godfather star waved and cheered for the crowd of fans in the square.

Looking as dapper as ever, the double Oscar winner slicked his grey locks away from his clean-shaven features.

Robert took home the tribute award during the festival on Saturday evening, with his old friend, director Martin Scorcese, presenting him with the gong.

Looking good: The 75-year-old Hollywood superstar looked his usual suave-self in a black blazer which he teamed with a smart grey T-shirt

Working the crowd: Finishing his trademark look with formal matching trousers, the Godfather star waved and cheered for the crowd of fans in the square

The actor's outing comes as Robert confirmed his split from wife Grace, 63, after 21 years of marriage.

The Raging Bull star released a statement to People a week after it was reported that he and Grace were no longer living together.

It said: 'Grace and I have two beautiful children together. We are entering a period of transition in our relationship which is a difficult but constructive process.

Honoured: Robert took home the tribute award during the festival on Saturday evening, with his old friend, director Martin Scorcese, presenting him with the gong

Pals: During the festivities, the Hollywood star sat with Rain Man actress Valeria Golino

'I honor Grace as a wonderful mother and ask for privacy and respect from all as we proceed to develop our roles as partners in parenting.'

Page Six was first to report on November 20 that the couple had separated.

The star, who shares Elliot, 20, and Helen, six, with his wife, was spotted on the red carpet last week at a MoMa event in New York City without the former flight attendant by his side.

All in the details: Looking as dapper as ever, the double Oscar winner slicked his grey locks away from his clean-shave features

The duo were last pictured on the red carpet in June at the 72nd Annual Tony Awards in New York City.

It is not the first split for the couple, who were wed in 1997, before Robert filed for divorce two years into their union - however the arrangement was never finalised.

Robert and Grace eventually reunited, renewing their marriage vows in 2004 in front of an A-list crowd such as Martin Scorsese, Meryl Streep and Ben Stiller.He hit headlines after he was pictured sharing a passionate smooch with actress Kate Beckinsale.

And Jack Whitehall put on an amorous display with a mystery blonde during his night out with Jamie Laing at Faces Nightclub Gants Hill on Saturday.

The comedian, 30, was in good company as he cosied up to his female companion, before he and the Made In Chelsea star, also 30, appeared to head off in a cab with a bevy of girls.

Who's that? Jack Whitehall put on an amorous display as he was spotted with a mystery blonde during his night out at Faces Nightclub Gants Hill on Saturday

Appearing in high spirits, the Bad Education actor chatted up a storm with the blonde, who was clad in an animal print ensemble.

The pair looked close as she stroked his hair and whispered into each other's ears.

Jamie, who is in a relationship with model Heloise Agostinelli, 20, was in a lively mood as he wrapped his arm around Jack's neck while partying the night away.

Speaking on Jack's display with the blonde, a source told MailOnline: 'She's a fan of Jack so approached him for a selfie'.

Good pals: The comedian, 30, proved to be in good company as he was joined by Made In Chelsea star Jamie Laing, also 30

Close: Appearing in high spirits, the Bad Education actor chatted up a storm with the blonde, who was clad in an animal print ensemble

Night out: The pair looked close as she stroked his hair and whispered into each other's ears

Familiar face: Speaking on Jack's display with the blonde, a source told MailOnline: 'She's a fan of Jack so approached him for a selfie'

Jack's reality star pal appeared to step into a taxi with a bevy of girls following their night out. MailOnline has contacted Jack and Jamie's representatives for further comment.

Jack recently sparked romance rumours with Much Ado About Nothing star Kate, 45, as they were spotted sharing a steamy embrace, before heading to a 2,000-a-night hotel.

The actress was seen relaxing into the comic's arms and kissing at the exclusive Blind Dragon nightclub in Los Angeles.

Interesting: He recently hit headlines after he was pictured sharing a passionate smooch with actress Kate Beckinsale

Having fun: Jack beamed as he joined the crowd at the Essex nightclub

Time to party: The London native cut a casual figure in an all-black ensemble as he arrived at the venue with his pals

Romance: Jack recently sparked romance rumours with Much Ado About Nothing star Kate, 45, as they were spotted sharing a steamy embrace

Earlier that night, the pair dined at celeb hotspot Craig's in West Hollywood but left separately to avoid being photographed together.

They then reconvened at the karaoke lounge, where they were seen laughing and joking around with each other before their passionate display. MailOnline contacted Kate and Jack's representatives for comment at the time.

Jack split from his ex Gemma Chan, 35, in December 2017 after six years together.

At the time, an insider told The Sun that the couple remain friends despite the break-up, and decided to go their separate ways after finding it more and more difficult to spend time together.

Off they go: Jack's reality star pal appeared to step into a taxi with a bevy of girls following their night out

Uh oh: Jamie is in a relationship with Heloise Agostinelli and showcase their romance on Made In Chelsea

Meanwhile, Jamie has been dating Heloise for around six months, and showcase their romance on Made In Chelsea.

The heiress arrived on the E4 show last season, as the Jamie's new love interest after his on-off romance with ex-girlfriend Frankie Gaff.

She is the daughter self-made billionaire Roberto Agostinelli who is chairman and co-founder of Rhone Group, a private equity firm and is said to be the 416th richest person in America.

Home time: The group ended their night as they headed into a huge black carShe's the Australian pageant queen known for her envy-inducing physique and impeccable sartorial senses.

And on Monday, Tegan Martin proved her fashion credentials yet again when she slipped her sensational figure in a striking jumpsuit.

Showing off her lean limbs and sun-kissed glow, the 26-year-old opted for a yellow print ensemble that was sure to keep all eyes on her.

Mellow in yellow! Model Tegan Martin slipped her sensational figure in this pastel print jumpsuit ahead of Pia Muehlenbeck's lavish Byron Bay wedding on Tuesday

Featuring a strapless bust and billowing trousers, the jumpsuit cinched at the blonde's waist to enhance her slender silhouette.

She teamed up the look with a straw-knitted bum bag and towering tan-coloured heels.

Tegan pulled back her flaxen locks in a quirky up 'do, revealing a pair of golden drop earrings.

Striking: Featuring a strapless bust and billowing trousers, the ensemble cinched at the blonde's waist to enhance her slender silhouette

Her makeup was kept to a minimum - consisting of dewy foundation, illuminator, neutral eye shadow and barely-there lip balm.

'Cheers to being in Byron for the wedding of the year,' she penned alongside the snap, tagging pal Pia Muelenbeck.

'Cheers to being in Byron for the wedding of the year,' Tegan wrote in an Instagram post, tagging pal Pia Muelenbeck (right) who is set to tie the knot with fiance Kane Veto (left) on Tuesday

Pia, who is set to tie the knot with fiance Kane Veto on Tuesday, will have her lavish wedding in Byron Bay.

The bride-to-be will be wearing a Pallas Haute Couture gown on the big day, with dresses from the label retailing between $7,000 and $12,000.

Earlier this month, The Daily Telegraph reported that Pia has issued a strict dress code to all wedding guests, telling them to 'wear natural earth tones' on the day.

Pia's representatives soon spoke to publication about the wedding dress code, claiming that it is nothing more than a 'helpful guide' that was not to be taken too seriously.Model Georgia Fowler and her older sister Kate have both been hitting the headlines lately.

But on Monday, Georgia, 25, showed how close the two women are when she praised her older sister for her support at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.

Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, the leggy New Zealand-born model thanked Kate and her mother who both attended the runway event.

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'It was nice to have my family there': Victoria's Secret supermodel Georgia Fowler (above) gushes over her older sister Kate after she supported her at the brand's annual fashion show

'It was nice to have my family there to support me. We are not often in the same place at the same time,' the brunette bombshell said.

Georgia went on to say she was excited this year's runway show had moved back to New York - after years in Paris and Shanghai, China.

'I have done the show in Paris and then last year in Shanghai, but there was something about being back in New York which was exciting,' she said.

'We are not often in the same place at the same time': Georgia went on to say that she, Kate and her mother all caught up at the event in New York

Kate and Georgia appear to be spending plenty of time together, after the sisters were spotted at the VIP Cartier Precious Cargo Party last week.

Glamorous socialite Kate has been making headlines herself after the equally beautiful sister split from Sydney pub multimillionaire, Justin Hemmes.

The Sunday Telegraph previously claimed Kate's multimillionaire ex Justin 'began seeing' former David Jones ambassador Montana Cox earlier this year.

Sister act: Georgia and Kate (above) have been spotted together a number of times recently, including at a Cartier event in Sydney last week

In July, it was reported that Kate and Justin had called it quits after three years together, according to a report by Sydney Morning Herald.

Justin, the Merivale CEO, has a reported net worth of $951 million.

Justin and model Kate share two daughters together - Alexa, two, and 15-month-old Saachi.

The news was confirmed by Justin, who released a statement about the split between, writing: 'Kate and I have the utmost love and respect for each other'.He's proved to be a popular campmate with I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here viewers.

And Nick Knowles' son TJ, 24, also impressed fans when he made an appearance on the ITV2 spin off show Extra Camp over the weekend.

Viewers flocked to Twitter to gush about TJ's looks as he appeared with other campmate's family members to chat about his dad's time in the jungle.

Fan favourite: Nick Knowles' son TJ, 24,(right) impressed fans when he made an appearance on the I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here spin off show Extra Camp over the weekend

TJ - who's full name is Tyrian-J Charlie Spencer Eric Edwin Harvey Cosworth Byron Darwin August Mayhem Beckett Nicholas Simon Knowles - told host Scarlett Moffatt that his dad was adamant about rules at home 'when they were younger but 'now he's more chilled'.

Fans at home were struck by his looks though, with besotted viewer tweeting: 'Nick Knowles son is a bit of a sort you know.'

'Lowkey nick knowles son is really good looking,' agreed another.

Son: Viewers flocked to Twitter to gush about TJ's looks as he appeared with other campmate's family members to chat about his dad's time in the jungle

TJ's mother is Paula Beckett, 48. He was born while the pair were having an affair in the nineties, but Nick ended their romance as he wanted to marry his first wife.

Nick and his son were estranged for his first four years but that changed when TJ was hit by a mystery illness.

Doctors advised Paula to check on family medical history and she wrote to Nick's PA for help.

Popular: Fans at home were struck by his looks, with besotted viewer tweeting: 'Nick Knowles son is a bit of a sort you know.'

He replied saying he wanted to start being a proper dad to the the little boy he had only known as a newborn baby and she has since called him a 'gentleman.'

Former dancer Paula, of Newbury, Berkshire, said: 'Nick turned out to be a brilliant dad to TJ and they are very close.

'He lived with Nick for a while at his house in Eton and had some great opportunities thanks to his dad. Hes given him a lovely start to life. Nick is a gentleman and Im pleased to say our son is a gentleman too.'

Love child: TJ's mother is Paula Beckett, 48. He was born while the pair were having an affair in the nineties, but Nick ended their romance as he wanted to marry his first wife

Close: Nick and his son were estranged for his first four years but that changed when TJ was hit by a mystery illness and Nick stepped in, with the two now very close

TJ flew out to Australia last week with his older brother Charlie, Nicks son from an earlier relationship, to support their dad, who has two other children Tuesday and Eddie, as the show enters its final week.

Meanwhile, Nick's older brother John was showing his support for the star on Monday's Loose Women, speaking out on his brother's tough divorce from second wife Jessica Rose Moor in 2016.

The couple married in 2012, welcoming their son two years later but separated in January 2016, Nick supported Jessica through her battle with cervical cancer that year, and they decided to give their marriage another try, only to divorce in December 2016.

Divorce: Meanwhile, Nick's older brother John appeared on Monday's Loose Women, speaking out on his brother's tough divorce from second wife Jessica Rose Moor (pictured in May 2016)

John admitted his brother 'was lost' when his marriage broke down. 'There aren't many times in his life that Nick is out of control,' he explained on Loose Women.

'He was very lost. doesn't happen a lot. It's kind of been my job, not because I'm the older brother, but because I love him.'

John added that the brothers talked through his coping strategy before he went in the jungle with ten other campmates.

'We talked about it when he went in he said "people are going to get ratty." He said "the only thing is if I get ratty." I said "you've got to be you at your lowest ebb sometimes."'She recently admitted she's spent every day crying since splitting from cheating fiance John Noble earlier this month.

But Vicky Pattison showed her former beau what he was missing as she shared a sizzling snap on Sunday, before posting an empowering message to her female Instagram followers.

In a throwback to her recent relaxing spa break with her mother at County Durham's Seaham Hall, the ex Geordie Shore star, 31, flaunted her toned curves in a tiny yellow string bikini.

Hot stuff: Vicky Pattison showed her former beau what he was missing as she shared a sizzling snap on Sunday, before posting an empowering message to her female Instagram followers

Posing up a storm in the spa's bathroom, the TV personality styled her raven tresses into beach-inspired loose waves with a side parting.

Looking in good spirits in the midst of her heartbreak, the star's pretty features were enhanced with a radiant dusting of make-up.

Following her skimpy bikini snap, the presenter shared an inspirational message with her 4.1million followers, admitting that while her 'soul aches' and 'heart breaks' she vows to 'fly even with broken wings'.

Vicky wrote: 'Just to let all you women out there know, you deserve more. Know your worth. I love you'.

'Know your worth': The TV personality, 31, told her 4.1 million followers her 'soul aches' and 'heart breaks', but vowed to 'fly even with broken wings'

Looking good: The former Geordie Shore star showed no signs of heartbreak as she left the ITV studios in London on Monday, following her I'm A Celebrity segment on This Morning

Embracing a winter vibe: The television personality looked typically chic in a midi-length leather skirt and a camel wool jumper

It comes as Vicky recently thanked her family and friends for all their support after her fiance was caught getting cosy with multiple women during a trip to Dubai.

Last week, the presenter confessed she's been crying every day as she wrote: 'This is a post to say THANKYOU...

'To be honest the main things that have gotten me through the last couple weeks has been the love and kindness of my family and friends, my career that I feel so utterly grateful to have and the support of strangers and people on social media.

'Im so overwhelmed at the love Ive been shown I just cant thank everyone enough.'

Beaming brunette: The reality TV star teamed her statement skirt with a cosy jumper and towering grey suede heels

All in the details: Vicky has been moving on after splitting from fiance John Noble earlier this month amid cheating allegations

Stunning: Vicky styled her brunette locks into a bouncy blow-dry for her I'm A Celeb segment

Speaking about her heartache, she continued: 'I am so looking forward to someday soon my smiles being real and not crying everyday but in the meantime, Im off home to try and rest up for a couple days, watch Im a celeb and eat a lot of toast.

'Im sorry Im such a utter pity party at the moment- Ill be better soon I promise, dont give up on me and THANKYOU again for your patience'.

She signed off the post: 'Vicky Pattison (worlds most miserable cow and toast enthusiast!)'

Last month, John was pictured cavorting with three girls while on a boys' holiday behind Vicky's back, leaving her devastated.

It's over: Vicky's fiance John Noble was pictured cavorting with three girls while on a boys' holiday earlier this month (pictured together in January)

Radiant: Vicky finished off the look with a bronzed smoky eye, blush-swept cheeks and a soft pink lip as she presented the segment

Meanwhile: Vicky recently thanked her family and friends for all their support after her fiance was caught getting cosy with multiple women during a trip to Dubai

Vicky and John first dated when the reality star was 20, but found their way back to each other in 2016.

The couple announced their engagement in July 2017 and after postponing their nuptials, were looking forward to planning their wedding in 2019.

Vicky confirmed they had split exclusively to MailOnline earlier this month, with a source saying: 'Vicky and John are officially over. She is concentrating on her busy work schedule and surrounding herself with positivity, friends and family.

'Its been a difficult couple of weeks but she is moving on with her life and looking forward to the future.'

Vicky was previously engaged to her Geordie Shore co-star Ricci Guarnaccio, 32, from 2012 to 2013.Kim Kardashian has not had it easy with her husband Kanye West. He had a mental breakdown in 2017 and had to visit the hospital; he later said he was on pain medication, then denied that too.

And in May he visited TMZ Live where he made some unsettling comments about slavery.

And in a teaser for this week's episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians, the 38-year-old siren will talk about her husband's bizarre antics. 'When he gets ramped up, he can't control what he says,' the mother-of-three says.

That's just the way he is! Kim Kardashian said Kanye West can sometimes not control what he says in a teaser for Sunday's KUWTK

Well, that explains it! . 'When he gets ramped up, he can't control what he says,' the mother-of-three says

Kanye has said some eye-rolling things on TMZ Live like, 'When you hear about slavery for 400 years. For 400 years?! That sounds like a choice. Like, you were there for 400 years? And its all yall?'

And the rapper also discussed why he wears his MAGA hat.

'You can't tell me what I'm supposed to do ... I don't subscribe to icons. You take the Nazi symbol, if you go to India, it is all over the place, but it doesn't represent that. It represents something different. So to me to wear that [MAGA] hat means I want to make America great in my own way,' she said.

On Sunday's episode Kim returned to Paris where she was robbed in October 2016.

She and West attended Virgil Abloh's first Louis Vuitton show as the brand's creative director.

They are going strong: The couple was seen at the Versace presentation in New York on Sunday

The episode kicked off with an intimate conversation between Kim and Kanye, where the Life Of Pablo rapper gently encouraged his wife to attend the runway show.

'I don't want to put any pressure on you to go to Paris,' he said. 'I think just for the culture, for Kim K to show up to the first black designer at [a] Louis Vuitton show, the world would just love to see you there.'

The Kardashian responded: 'I have to think about it.'

Deep discussion: The episode kicked off with an intimate conversation between Kim and husband Kanye West, where the Life Of Pablo rapper gently encouraged his wife to attend the Virgil Abloh's Louis Vuitton fashion show

'I don't want to put any pressure on you to go to Paris,' he said. 'I think just for the culture, for Kim K to show up to the first black designer at [a] Louis Vuitton show, the world would just love to see you there'

'I have to think about it,' she responded

During a confessional, Kim was weary about her decision to attend.

'I definitely want to be there to support Kanye and Virgil,' she said. 'But the last time I was there it was a horrific experience for me. I'm going really cautiously. You never know what could happen.'

Kris Jenner applauded her middle daughter for being brave enough to return to France.

'You're a really good friend to go back to a place where you're not the most comfortable,' she said. 'But it's good putting your toe in the water.'

During a confessional, Kim was weary about her decision to attend. 'I definitely want to be there to support Kanye and Virgil,' she said. 'But the last time I was there it was a horrific experience for me. I'm going really cautiously. You never know what could happen'

Kris Jenner applauded her middle daughter for being brave enough to return to France. 'You're a really good friend to go back to a place where you're not the most comfortable,' she said. 'But it's good putting your toe in the water'

The KKW Beauty founder was hoping she could revive her love for Paris during her one-day trip with West.

'I hope that this trip is so good that I start to remember all the magical things about Paris and why Kanye and I fell in love with it,' she said.

Once in the City Of Lights, Kim tried to stay positive despite a security snag.

The couple's detail arrived late to their hotel, ultimately delaying Kim and Kanye's arrival to the Louis Vuitton show.

The KKW Beauty founder was hoping she could revive her love for Paris during her one-day trip with West. 'I hope that this trip is so good that I start to remember all the magical things about Paris and why Kanye and I fell in love with it,' she said

Once in the City Of Lights, Kim tried to stay positive despite a security snag. The couple's detail arrived late to their hotel, ultimately delaying Kim and Kanye's arrival to the show

Excuse me: The couple were bombarded by fans and paparazzi as they walked into the event

Safely back in the states, Kim reflected on her trip.

'Kanye and Virgil had the sweetest moment, they were both crying,' she said.

'It was just such an emotional day. The fact that Virgil's come this far. It's just, it's like a symbol. Like, they made it. They did it. They're taking over the fashion world when everyone told them they couldn't do it.'

She added: 'I don't think I'll forget my experiences in Paris, the good or the bad, and I think that's okay. Thinking about it, I think I could go back.'

Keeping Up With The Kardashians available to stream Mondays in the Uk & Ireland on hayu.

Safely back in the states, Kim reflected on her trip. 'I don't think I'll forget my experiences in Paris, the good or the bad, and I think that's okay,' she said. 'I think I could go back'

Touching: Kanye and Virgil shared an emotional moment following the fashion showCandice Swanepoel was a vision in black as she sashayed down the Versace runway on Sunday night.

The 30-year-old rocked a leather look with cut-out crop top which showed off her toned tummy as she walked for the designer's Pre-Fall 2019 Collection at The American Stock Exchange in New York.

The star - who gave birth to her second child, Ariel Swanepoel Nicoli, just five months ago - looked incredible.

Killing it: Candice Swanepoel rocked the runway at the Versace Pre-Fall 2019 Collection in New York on Sunday

Her long legs were on show in some black opaque tights and metallic detail heels.

Candice walked the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - which aired on Sunday - after welcoming her son in June.

The model - who also has son Anaca, two - has revealed the secrets to her pre-show preparations, saying she combines a strict fitness regime with the everyday stresses of parenting.

Candice quipped: 'Taking care of two kids will get you in shape real quick.'

Model beauty: The 30-year-old mother-of-two looked amazing in a cut-out crop top and leather mini

Dripping in Versace: Candice posed backstage in the outfit which consisted of opaque tights and metallic detail heels

On top of looking after her children, the South African star also did about three to four workouts per week - which included training with ankle weights and doing squats - in preparation for this year's show.

Candice is now a veteran of the runway and even though deep breathing techniques have helped to calm some of her nerves, she still feels anxious before a big show.

She told E! News: 'I'm a ball of nerves before the show. I feel like each year I get more and more nervous - I don't know why.

'But nerves are healthy. You need a little adrenaline to really kill it.'

Leather look: The South African born star wore slicked back wet-look locks with statement jewelry adorning her ears

Meanwhile, Candice previously admitted that raising two young children is 'pretty intense' - but it's also an experience she's relishing.

She said: 'It's pretty intense, but it's amazing. To see the love between them is amazing. It's a lot, I'm not gonna lie. The second one is a lot easier, but the situation of having two makes it harder.'

Despite the challenges, Candice insisted she dreams of one day having a 'bunch of kids'.

She said: 'I don't plan too much into the future.

'I believe a lot in destiny and that what happens - you can try to manifest certain things, but I definitely do want to continue having a great career and building my family as well because I'm really loving that. I definitely want to have a bunch of kids.'A HURRICANE shelter and community recreational centre are the first two projects that will be executed under an agreement between the Government and Carnival Corporation.





The news come on the heels of a meeting between Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson and a Carnival Corporation delegation led by Marie McKenzie, vice president of global destinations services and sourcing, last week.





The discussions centred on a series of community projects throughout Grand Turk that Carnival will be funding and executing.





A statement from the Premiers Office noted that the cruise industry giant - which plays an integral role in the destinations tourism success by bringing more than one million visitors to the nations capital - is expanding its partnership with the TCI Government and various agencies to positively impact the lives of Grand Turk residents.





Both parties, the Premiers Office said, are taking a holistic approach to community engagement; as the proposed initiatives span the areas of disaster management, infrastructure, education, environment and recreation.





High priority on the list of projects is the construction of a hurricane shelter and community recreational centre with a youth focus.





"We are pleased to advise that TCIG and Carnival representatives have already executed the agreement to give effect to this.





"This facility will have a major impact on Grand Turk residents ability to prepare for and withstand major climate events with the added benefit of providing a venue for various community enrichment activities, the Premiers Office said.





Numerous other construction projects for the Victoria Public Library, HJ Robinson High School, TCI National Museum and other entities are currently in the planning stages.





After meeting with the Carnival Corporation team, the premier commented: "I am delighted that the Carnival Corporation continues to demonstrate its commitment to the Turks and Caicos Islands, not only as a tourism partner but a community partner.





"It is important to note that the funds for these initiatives are Carnivals and are in addition to the works to be carried out under the Joint Infrastructure Fund.





"These forthcoming projects will greatly enrich the lives of the residents of the nations capital. (Delana Isles)



Blanca Blanco looked dip in gold this weekend.

The beauty wore a beaded gown when she attended the tribute to Robert De Niro during the 17th Marrakech International Film Festival on in Marrakech, Morocco on Saturday.

This comes just weeks after the siren lost her Malibu home to the raging Woolsey Fire.

Show stopper: Blanca Blanco looked dip in gold this weekend. The beauty wore a beaded gown when she attended the tribute to Robert De Niro during the 17th Marrakech International Film Festival on in Marrakech, Morocco on Saturday

Survivor: This comes just weeks after the siren lost her Malibu home to the raging Woolsey Fire

The dress was stunning with sequins on top and a long, full skirt with a see-through material in a hot pink color.

The Hollywood vet carried a gold clutch purse but her heels could not be seen under the dress.

The actress wore her hair up with gold earrings.

Days earlier she wore an equally stunning dress, this one all gold.

There was sequins on top and the bottom of the skirt was a see-through beige material.

Le look: Days earlier she wore an equally stunning dress, this one all gold. There was sequins on top and the bottom of the skirt was a see-through beige material

A kiss to her fans: Here she blew a kiss when on the red and gold carpet

The looker, who lost most of her belongings in the fire, seemed to carry the same gold clutch purse.

Blanco, who's been with actor John Savage, 69, since 2008, started her trip to the Moroccan country in style, wowing in a thigh-skimming floral frock.

Her stunning dress, which featured cut out detailing around the bust, was adorned with a vibrant floral pattern across her chest and waist.

She teamed it with a pair of towering sky-scraper heels, which gave her willowy frame some further inches.

Around her neck she wore an open-ended necklace with gold accents, sporting a matching bracelet on her wrist.

Posing against a tiled backdrop, Blanca wore her ombre locks in natural waves and opted for a glamorous coat of make-up including a swipe of black liner.

Moving on: Blanco touched down in Marrakech just days after she returned to her Malibu home which had been severely damaged in the California wildfires

While most of Blanca's possessions were all destroyed in the fire, she managed to save a few things including her college diploma, some paintings and a director style chair with her name on the back.

She was allowed to return to her home for the first time following the devastating Woolsey Fire just a couple of weeks ago.

Speaking to DailyMail.com she shared her frustration of not being allowed to enter the premises even though there were looters everywhere.

'We are hoping to be allowed back to Malibu so we can see our place and get closure. I have some hope maybe I show up and some family pictures aren't burnt,' she said.

'In addition looters in my neighborhood has been an issue - they are everywhere. A neighbor has been securing property with riffles to protect from looters so that's scary.'

Devastating: Blanca returned to her Malibu home for the first time after it was completely destroyed in the Woolsey Fire

'Insurance mentioned we got hit hard in our neighborhood and they are talking rebuilding too - that is hard to digest yet.' 'PCH and Kanan area still has not been open so we are hopeful by this weekend.'

Blanca told her harrowing story to DailyMail.com last week about she had just minutes to pack up before fleeing the fire.

She revealed that she had just minutes to pack up their house and wake up John, who was sleeping, to flee the property. The pair got out safe and were also about to save their pet bunny, Star.

The Dog Of Christmas star also added that she thinks they'll be moving away from Malibu, but may move back after 'a couple of years'.

'I felt trapped and claustrophobic when I was trying to escape so not sure I want to live in Malibu again. We are considering living in Beverly Hills or Brentwood,' she dished.

'Now we are in a hotel in Beverly Hills. John and I have moved to three hotels since Malibu. It's stressful but lots of hotels do not have long stay since many evacuees are renting. Hotels are increasing prices since fires so that is a shame.'

'For me, I have been having a hard time sleeping and having nightmares.'

Blanca continued: 'Finally in the last two days I slept four hours straight. Stress level is high but I work everyday on reminding myself how lucky I am to be alive and John too and our bunny.'

They have each other: Blanca is living with fellow actor John Savage, 69

'I am aware I can be happy or sad during this situation but I choose happy. Being optimistic will help me get through these stages,' she continued.

'I want to focus on the solution rather than the problem. It is okay to rebuild life. We all do it since life is not linear.'

'John is in good spirits too. His positive attitude is motivating. His stress level is high but every day he works on himself too to maintain calm and being proactive.'

'We meditate and take walks to relieve stress and clear our minds. We are going to get a gym membership this weekend since that was our normal morning routine in Malibu- we want to continue with our normal routine.'

Blanca added: 'We are both going to be looking for more work. We are not taking time off from this, we will continue with our schedule as planned and of course with self care being our priority.'

A tough day: Blanca was heading to a meeting in LA when she learned her neighbourhood had to be evacuated so she returned home to save her boyfriend John and their bunny

'I will reach out to executive producers I know and send my acting resume so I work on booking more films and help rebuild my life.'

'My goal next year is to do a studio film in addition to independent films I have been doing. So I will continue to work on that.'

I am feeling hopeful. We are beyond thankful for all the people that reached out and provided emotional support. The kindness and sweetness of people during this challenging time is beyond words. Growth and strength is what I am gaining from this experience.'Faith Hill and Tom McGraw made some beautiful children.

And on Sunday evening the blonde beauty took one of her children out to the Versace show in New York City. Hill looked proud as she posed away with Maggie Elizabeth McGraw, a 20-year-old Stanford University student.

Also at the Pre-fall 19 fashion show were Kim Kardashian and Kanye West as well as Blake Lively.

The good DNA: Faith Hill and Tom McGraw made some beautiful children. And on Sunday evening the blonde beauty took one of her children out to the Versace show in New York City

Brainy and beautiful: Hill looked proud as she posed away with Maggie Elizabeth McGraw, a 20-year-old Stanford University student

The country power couple also have Gracie, aged 21, and Audrey, aged 16.

Hill wore a red dress with blue flowers and black pointy heels and her hair down. She was tanned and very toned, proving her daily workouts have been a blessing.

Her daughter wore a black tank top and jeans with plaid patch work in red and yellow. Her hair was down in long curls.

A 10 every day: Hill wore a red dress with blue flowers and black pointy heels and her hair down. She was tanned and very toned, proving her daily workouts have been a blessing

Mini me: Her daughter wore a black tank top and jeans with plaid patch work in red and yellow. Her hair was down in long curls

Flashback: Hill and McGraw and their kids arrive at the TIME 100: The Most Influential People in the World gala event at Jazz at Lincoln Center in 2015

Kardashian was wearing a shimmering silver mini-dress which showed off ample cleavage, along with a pair of see-through heels.

She also had her hair tied up in a long ponytail for her NYC trip.

Her husband Kanye West was wearing a grey shirt and black pants and a gold chain, with a green overcoat.

The rapper and the reality TV star: Also at the Pre-fall 19 fashion show were Kim Kardashian and Kanye West

Working it! The reality star, 38, and her rapper husband, 41, turned heads as they posed up a storm on the red carpet

Kanye stepping out: Her husband Kanye was wearing a grey shirt and black pants and a gold chain, with a green overcoat

Support: While she was in New York for this fashion show, she also showed her support to sister Kendall Jenner for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

Kim and Kanye: Kim took to Instagram yesterday with a new photo where she revealed, 'Kanye dressed me up as a doll

While she was in New York for this fashion show, she also showed her support to sister Kylie Jenner for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.

The show itself was taped in New York City a few weeks ago, with the one-hour show airing on ABC Sunday night at 10 PM.

'It never gets old seeing my sister walk the runway for @victoriassecret,' Kardashian said on Instagram,' before adding 'Tune in tonight to ABC and watch!'

Stepping out: The reality star was bashed last week by many for her private jet excursion with Kanye and the kids to Tokyo

Body goals: Kim looked flawless in her pink crystal mini dress designed by Donatella Versace

Kim took to Instagram yesterday with a new photo where she revealed, 'Kanye dressed me up as a doll.

Between her Tokyo trip and her current New York jaunt, she turned her Hidden Hills mansion into a 'jungle' for a Tarzan-themed birthday party for her son Saint and nephew Reign.

Kim also recently reacted to her mother Kris Jenner putting in a cameo appearance on Ariana Grande's Thank U, Next music video, stating, 'So F***ING FUNNY.'

Inside joke: Kanye appeared to display his funny side as the brunette bombshell giggled on the glitzy red carpet

Lovebirds: West kept his hand on the KKW Beauty founder's leg as they sat front row

Celeb status: Kim and Kanye mingled with Donatella Versace and 2 Chainz after the show

The reality star was bashed last week by many for her private jet excursion with Kanye and the kids to Tokyo.

Sharon Osbourne called her 'obnoxious' for sharing the trip on social media, while Kardashian admitted the trip was 'unnecessary.'

She also hinted that she's releasing a new makeup line soon, during her cameo appearance in Chrissy Tiegen and John Legend's Christmas special.On Sunday night the Victoria's Secret models got together to celebrate all their hard work after another successful fashion show.

Attending the viewing party at the Spring Studios in New York, Elsa Hosk and Josephine Skriver stunned in metallic dresses as they posed up a storm on the red carpet.

Elsa, 30, dazzled in a slinky silver asymmetric frock with fluffy white fur coat - I.AM.GIA's NYA jacket.

All that glitters: Elsa Hosk and Josephine Skriver show off leggy looks at the Victoria's Secret viewing party at Spring Studios on Sunday

In a nod to the lingerie giant the Swedish beauty wore pastel pink strappy stilettos from designer Sophia Webster.

She wore her blonde locks swept back in a tight bun and sported a pop of pink lipstick.

Josephine, who hails from Denmark, also opted for a one-shoulder look in a glittering geometric design mini dress.

She teamed the frock with black heels and wore her hair up in a fun ponytail.

Elsa wore the Dream Angels Fantasy Bra at the 2018 Victoria's Secret Show last month.

Poised: Elsa, 30, looked fabulous in a silver asymmetric dress with pink heels

Skin: The Swedish stunner showed off the back of her dress which was low cut

And the blonde beauty was 'shaking with excitement' when she tried it on for the first time.

The Victoria's Secret Angel was chosen to walk in the special lingerie set - which was crafted by ateliers at Swarovski - when the show was filmed in New York City on November 8.

Speaking to PEOPLE about her fitting, she said: 'It was just a sensation that I've never felt before. My body was violently shaking. And it wasn't because I was nervous, I was just excited. It was a cool feeling that I've never felt before. And it was definitely a moment that I'll never forget.'

Festive chic: Josephine, 25, who hails from Denmark, also opted for a one-shoulder look in a glittering geometric design mini dress

Pals: The leggy beauty cuddled up to fellow model Jasmine Tookes on the pink carpet

This year's bralette and matching body chain cost $1 million to create and was adorned with over 2,100 Swarovski Created Diamonds and responsibly sourced topaz set in sterling silver.

Elsa - who has been an Angel since 2015 - thinks it is the 'most beautiful fantasy bra' that Victoria's Secret has ever created.

The supermodel said: 'It's definitely the most beautiful fantasy bra I ever saw, and when I saw it I was like, 'You guys have got to be kidding me.'

'It's just very cool, very simple, modern, and so sparkly - If I would have designed it, it would have looked just like this. I put it on and I was like, 'It looks like someone just made magic and put it on my body.'

Party time: Elsa looked fabulous as she headed into the venue to watch the showIt's the much-loved ITV reality show that has become a calendar highlight since it first aired 16 years ago.

But taking a swipe at I'm A Celebrity, Kelly Brook has insisted appearing on the show is 'the beginning of the end' when it comes to a star's career.

The model, 39, made the comments while co-hosting Heart FM's drive-time show with JK (Jason King) and claimed she would never consider starring on the series, even if she needed the money.

Ouch: Kelly Brook, 39, has insisted appearing on I'm A Celebrity is 'the beginning of the end' when it comes to a star's career

As conversation turned to I'm A Celebrity, Kelly was asked by JK whether she would ever consider heading into the jungle.

Insisting she couldn't and that she wouldn't want to, Kelly quipped: 'I can just think of million things I'd rather do. I'd rather go and work in my local pub.'

She added: 'I don't think I could. I really don't because I hate confined spaces. I don't want to eat eyeballs or sheep testicles and all the things they have to eat on there.'

Stressing that she would never appear on the show, Kelly claimed: 'Even if I had a huge tax bill and I had to pay it really urgently, I still wouldn't do it.'

Brutal: The model, 39, made the comments while on Heart FM with JK - claiming she would never do the series, that saw the likes of Noel Edmonds this year, even if she needed the cash

Taking a swipe: Kelly said: 'When you're eating stuff like eyeballs or sheep testicles on the telly, where do you go from there? It's kind of like the beginning of the end in my opinion!'

Unpicking her comments, her co-host asked: 'Are you trying to say that I'm A Celebrity is the panto tax bill?' prompting Kelly to reply: 'I know that they offer them so much money, so I understand why they do it, but when you're eating stuff like that on the telly, where do you go from there?'

Continuing to take a swipe at I'm A Celebrity and its famous-faced contestants, she fired: 'It's kind of like the beginning of the end in my opinion!'

Kelly's comments come after viewers saw Noel Edmonds become the first celebrity to leave camp, despite being a late arrival to the show and ITV reportedly splashing out 600,000 - the highest ever contestant fee - on securing his place on the show.

Gone: Kelly's comments come after viewers saw Noel Edmonds become the first celebrity to leave camp, despite ITV reportedly splashing out 600k to secure his place on the show

He's out! Noel was shortly joined by Hollyoaks star Malique Thompson-Dwyer who was the second celebrity to be given the boot

Noel said he was 'disappointed' on his exit, but glad to be reunited with his wife Liz following a gruelling stay in camp.

He was shortly joined by Hollyoaks star Malique Thompson-Dwyer who was the second celebrity to be given the boot.

Kelly's comments came while she was presenting on Heart FM, standing in for Lucy Horobin on the station's drive-time show from 4-7pm.

She was seen arriving for her presenting slot in London on Monday and cut a glamorous figure as she made her way into Global Studios, clad in a leopard print coat.

She opted for figure hugging leggings to show off her glimpse of her famous curves and added height with black boots.

Hitting the radio: Kelly's comments came while she was presenting on Heart FM, standing in for Lucy Horobin on the station's drive-time show from 4-7pm

Dressed to impress: She opted for figure hugging leggings to show off her glimpse of her famous curves and added height with black boots

Kelly drew attention to her long locks which she wore in loose waves around her face. Never one to scrimp on glamour, Kelly sported bronzed eye make-up and a nude lip.

The Loose Women panelist is currently loved up with long-term beau Jeremy Parisi and spoke out on the radio show about the relationship. During an appearance on Heart last month, the star revealed she would like to 'go the whole way' when she next gets engaged.

Kelly, who has been with Jeremy since 2015, told her co-host: 'Ive not really had, I mean this is a bit mean to say but Im gonna be honest  I havent really had any memorable engagements.

'No like big grand gestures of like of romance or anything. So in my mind if I do ever get engaged again, which will be the one and I will go the whole way and get married by the way', she added.

New gig: During an appearance on Heart FM last month, the star revealed she'd would like to 'go the whole way' with her engagement next time round

Love life: The glamour model has been in a relationship with model Jeremy, 33, since 2015

Speaking on her dream proposal, the brunette bombshell divulged: 'I found this beach [in Iceland], its called diamond beach and its basically this black beach and it is full of these glaciers and it just looks so incredible.

Kelly previously dated action star Jason Statham, 51 - who is now in a long-term relationship with model and actress Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, 31 - for six years between 1998 and 2004 when she was just 18.

She then moved on to Hollywood actor Billy Zane, 52, who she was in a relationship with between 2004 and 2008, when the couple broke off their engagement.

Kelly dated rugby player Danny Cipriani, 30, on and off between 2008 and 2010, before moving on to another rugby star in the form of Thom Evans, 33.

Check her out: Kate Garraway was also spotted leaving the Global Radio StudiosThey've been romantically linked for years yet keep their relationship quite private.

But Katie Holmes and Jamie Foxx were out and about in public as they were spotted enjoying a romantic date in New Orleans on Sunday.

The 39-year-old actress looked smitten as she giggled next to her beau, 50, during their fun night out in The Big Easy.

Loved up: Katie Holmes, 39, and Jamie Foxx, 50, were out and about in public as they were spotted enjoying a romantic date in New Orleans on Sunday

The Dawson's Creek alum looked every inch the movie star even in a casual ensemble of short Mother jeans.

She kept warm in the chilly air with a chic red wrap around her neck and shoulders.

With her trademark brunette tresses swept up in a loose ponytail, the star stomped the Louisiana streets in basic black flats.

The Ray Charles Oscar winner swathed his muscular framed in a dark sweater and matching pants.

Smitten: The actress looked smitten as she giggled next to her beau, 50, during their fun night out in The Big Easy

Wrapped up: She kept warm in the chilly air with a chic red wrap around her neck and shoulders

Casual: The Dawson's Creek alum looked every inch the movie star even in a casual ensemble of short Mother jeans

Katie could not contain her laughter as her funnyman beau must have been cracking the jokes.

She looked lovingly at him with a huge smile on her face as they strolled close to each other.

The couple has been dating for years, but they have kept their relationship incredibly private.

Hair story: With her trademark brunette tresses swept up in a loose ponytail, the star stomped the Louisiana streets in basic black flats

Cool figure: The Ray Charles Oscar winner swathed his muscular framed in a dark sweater and matching pants

Funny girl: Katie could not contain her laughter as her funnyman beau must have been cracking the jokes

A rep spoke out about their relationship for the first time over the summer to shoot down reports of a breakup.

They have never admitted to being an item, preferring to keep their five-year romance on the down low.

'Katie and Jamie are still careful about being photographed together,' a source told People.

Private affair: The couple has been dating for years, but they have kept their relationship incredibly private

Keeping mum: They have never admitted to being an item, preferring to keep their five-year romance on the down low

Careful: 'Katie and Jamie are still careful about being photographed together,' a source said

'Everyone knows they are dating, but they still want to keep it private.'

So private that the two are often apart for long periods of time.

'Its not uncommon for them to go long stretches without seeing each other,' a source dished to ET in June.

Look of love: She looked lovingly at him with a huge smile on her face as they strolled close to each other

Gossip:'Everyone knows they are dating, but they still want to keep it private'

Being apart: 'Its not uncommon for them to go long stretches without seeing each other,' a source dished

'And theyre still very, very private. Youre not going to hear or see every time theyre together because they dont flaunt their relationship in public.'

'They still plan to keep their relationship private,' a source explained to the website of the couple's low-key romance.

'This is what has worked for them and what they are comfortable with. They aren't a couple who is going to stroll down the street holding hands.'

No flaunting: 'And theyre still very, very private. Youre not going to hear or see every time theyre together because they dont flaunt their relationship in public.'

Keep it low: 'They still plan to keep their relationship private,' a source explained

The only time they have been seen packing on the PDA was during a romantic beach date in Malibu in 2017.

The duo reportedly got together one year following Katie's divorce from Tom Cruise, back in 2013.

She married the famous Scientologist in 2006 and divorced in 2012. Since then the pair have not been seen together.

One time: The only time they have been seen packing on the PDA was during a romantic beach date in Malibu in 2017

Quick set: The duo reportedly got together one year following Katie's divorce from Tom Cruise, back in 2013

The former power couple have one child together, 12-year-old Suri, who the Jerry Maguire actor has not been photographed with in public for four years.

A report earlier this week stated the couple are planning a secret wedding in Paris.

An insider from Radar Online said: 'Paris is the city where they decided to go public with their romance after years of sneaking around.

Family affair: The former power couple have one child together, 12-year-old Suri, who the Jerry Maguire actor has not been photographed with in public for four years

'Jamies been a handful ever since they started secretly dating in 2013  but Katies convinced him to settle down, and theyre ready to make it official.'

'Katie has waited a long time to marry Jamie, and shes now made it clear where she wants to get married and when,' the source added.

'Shes desperate for a winter wedding in the City of Light.'

Rumors: A report earlier this week stated the couple are planning a secret wedding in Paris

Shot down: However, reps from both stars claimed the rumor untrue

However, reps from both stars claimed the rumor untrue according to Gossip Cop.

And this comes just weeks after rumours swirled that the couple were engaged when Holmes was spotted wearing a diamond ring on her finger earlier this month.

However those claims were shot down by her reps, as they claimed the ring was only a movie prop for The Secret.

Fictional: 'Katie's not engaged to anyone besides her fictional movie fiance, played by Jerry O'Connell,' her publicist said

Work ahead: Meanwhile, Katie is currently filming The Secret alongside Jerry O'Connell

'Katie's not engaged to anyone besides her fictional movie fiance, played by Jerry O'Connell,' her publicist told PEOPLE.

Meanwhile, Katie is currently filming The Secret alongside Jerry O'Connell.

The film will carry the popular book's central tenet of the power of positive thinking throughout a story about a young family.

Film facts: The film will carry the popular book's central tenet of the power of positive thinking throughout a story about a young family

'A young widow with three children who hires a handyman to fix her house, only to realize that, as he grows closer to the family, he carries a secret connection to her past,' explained The Hollywood Reporter about the plot.

Andy Tennant - the man behind hits such as Hitch, Sweet Home Albama, and Fool's Gold - is directing the movie.

Foxx, coincidentally, is nearby his love in the Bayou while shooting his latest Netflix film, Power.Friends fans may be worrying prematurely about the series being removed from Netflix.

There were multiple reports Monday that the much-loved comedy will be leaving the streaming service after the 'available until' date on the show's details page showed January 1 2019.

But as of Monday afternoon the expiration date has disappeared.

And Netflix COO Ted Sarandos has told The Hollywood Reporter that the comedy's departure from the site 'is a rumor'.

Not just yet: Reports that Friends will no longer be available to stream on Netflix from January onwards are just a rumor, it was reported on Monday

It's not clear how significant that expiration date Netflix uses is, as it could just indicate the end of a contract for 2018 and there may be renegotiations on the horizon.

It was predicted in October that the media giant would be losing the 10-season show - which originally aired from 1994 to 2004 - as well as other content in the coming months as new streaming services prepare to compete in the market.

Netflix paid $118 million (around $500,000 per episode) for the Friends catalog in 2015.

A recent report by Deadline suggested that Friends would disappear from the on-demand platform before re-emerging on WarnerMedia's upcoming streaming service launching later in 2019.

It comes as Netflix also looks set to lose Disney/Marvel and Warner Bros./DC titles amid the increasingly competitive on-demand market.

Earlier on Monday the series information page on the Netflix stated the episodes are available to watch until January 1 2019

Don't panic! The expiration date has now been completely removed from the info page

Hiatus: A recent report by Deadline suggested that Friends would disappear from streaming libraries before returning on WarnerMedia's upcoming streaming service launching later in 2019

The 10-season show originally aired from 1994 to 2004 and drew viewers in with its sweet and funny story-lines including the Ross and Rachel romance

Losing Friends will be a big blow for Netflix as the comedy is the third most popular sitcom in the US behind The Big Bang Theory and Brooklyn Nine-Nine.

Losing Friends would be a big blow for Netflix as the comedy is the third most popular sitcom in the US behind The Big Bang Theory and Brooklyn Nine-Nine.

'Content like Friends is likely to disappear from Netflix in 2019 as WarnerMedia launches its own SVOD service,' media analyst Rich Greenfield told Deadline in October.

Disney will also be giving Netflix a run for its month with its service called Disney+ which will be launching in late 2019.

It will offer the Star Wars and Marvel movies along with Pixar films and a variety of animated series.

Friends is one of the most popular sitcoms of all time, following the lives of six friends living in New York; Rachel (Jennifer Aniston), Ross (David Schwimmer), Joey (Matt LeBlanc), Chandler (Matthew Perry), Monica (Courteney Cox) and Phoebe (Lisa Kudrow).

While fans have demanded a reboot of the show over the years, creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane have said a reboot will 'never happen.'Rachael Ostovich was beaten to a pulp by her husband Arnold Berdon in November.

But it seems the 27-year-old UFC fighter is not letting it hold her back as she shared a very upbeat Instagram note this weekend.

The beauty said God was 'sooooo good' to her and 'the best is yet to come' as she shared a photo of her ESPN cover with Paige VanZant, who she will fight in New York in January.

Onwards: Rachael Ostovich was beaten to a pulp by her husband Arnold Berdon in November. But it seems the 27-year-old UFC fighter is not letting it hold her back as she shared a very upbeat Instagram note this weekend

The caption read, 'First ever ESPN UFC event at the Barcalys Center!!!! Making History. God is sooooo good to me.' She added a prayer emoji.

'The best is yet to come!' she also noted.

'New York here we come!! Thank you Sizlak008 for the graphic! And suckerpunchent for having me REPRESENTED.'

She added, 'We keep it movin.'

Her fans loved her note.

How could he do it? Ostovich was beaten to a pulp by her husband Arnold Berdon in November; seen in October

One said, 'You are incredibly inspiring!' while another added, 'I wish you well and best of luck in your next fight!'

The beauty said to quit the fight would allow him to 'mess with her dreams,' she told KHON2 in Hawaii on Friday.

The star spoke on camera, revealing she still has a black eye.

'This is something that cant be taken away from me,' said the UFC fighter. 'I want to use this big worldwide UFC platform to show people that dont let anyone or anything come between you and your dreams and your career.'

For more on Rachael Ostovich click here

Still recovering: The athlete showed a black eye as she talked to RHON2 in Hawaii on Friday, revealing she is fighting Paige VanZant in January because she has to

The fight will take place on January 19 in New York.

She wore a tie-dye tank top with a gold heart necklace and a nose ring.

And she wants to be a role model for women suffering from domestic abuse.

'I felt that it was extremely important to me to follow through with it and not only for me but for my daughter and other people that might be going through similar situations,' Ostovich told KHON2.

She has daughter Ruby Rose with Berdon.

'I want to take a stand against domestic violence and show others that its okay to come out and speak about it and not be quieted.'

Her look: She wore a tie-dye tank top with a gold heart necklace and a nose ring

Mugged: Here he is seen showing off his chest again; he has said the beating was self defense

She also said, 'I feel like I have to do this.'

And she thanked her family.

'Im extremely grateful and blessed for my support system. My family, who has done so much for me and has kept me together and kept me strong.'

VanZant also explained why the fight is good.

She tweeted earlier this week, 'Yes we are going to war with each other in the cage, but I stand by her side with her ongoing battle at home. Lets put on a fight and show these people how strong we are. #GirlPower #UFC.'

Fight is back on: VanZant also took to her own Twitter page to share the news, revealing, 'FIGHT STILL ON!!!!! I couldnt be more great full to @rachaelostovich.'

This comes after Ostovich shared a photo with VanZant, 24, along with 'Thank you Jesus' and a prayer hands emoji, along with a tweet from ESPN reporter Brett Okamoto which broke the news.

VanZant also took to her own Twitter page to share the news, revealing, 'FIGHT STILL ON!!!!! I couldnt be more great full to @rachaelostovich.'

The fight was initially cancelled due to Ostovich's injuries, which were sustained in an alleged attack by her husband, another MMA fighter, Arnold Berdon, in Hawaii.

While the fight was cancelled, Ostovich's manager Brian Butler-Au told ESPN that the fighter sought a second opinion on her injuries, and she was cleared this week.

Ostovich vs VanZant: Ostovich, 27, took to her Instagram story to share a pic of herself and VanZant, 24, along with 'Thank you Jesus' and a prayer hands emoji, along with a tweet from ESPN reporter Brett Okamoto which broke the news

'She never really wanted to be off of this fight,' Butler-Au said. 'When everything happened, it was very emotional.

'The injuries were significant enough that, combined with the emotions of everything that was going down, we made a decision to pull out of the fight,' Butler-Au continued.

'Now that things are settling out and the swelling of the injury is going down, Rachael got a second opinion and everything will work out to where she can keep this fight.'

Fight back on: 'She never really wanted to be off of this fight,' Butler-Au said. 'When everything happened, it was very emotional.'

ESPN also confirmed with UFC president Dana White that the fight is back on for January 19.

Berdon was taken into custody by Honolulu police last week and charged with second-degree assault, and his next court hearing will be December 18.

Ostovich was also granted a restraining order against Berdon.

The Ostovich/VanZant fight is part of the UFC Fight Night lineup at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

The January 19 fight will be the first event as part of a new five-year deal between the UFC and ESPN, with the fight airing on the network's new ESPN+ streaming service.

Ostovich has a 4-4 mixed martial arts record and is 1-1 in two UFC fights, while VanZant has a 7-4 record and is coming off a one-year injury hiatus.

Working hard: (R-L) Karine Gevorgyan of Armenia and Ostovich trade punches in their women's flyweight bout during the TUF Finale event inside Park Theater in December 2017



Lindsay Lohan is a 'boss b***h' in a teaser for her hotly anticipated new show Lindsay Lohan's Beach Club.

The clip, released by MTV on Monday, shows the 32-year-old actress running her new beach club, Lohan Beach House, in Mykonos, Greece, over the summer and showing off her hot dance moves.

It opens with Lindsay posing in an aqua blue Grecian style gown as she narrates: 'I've gone through so much in my past, people have always given me trouble for going to clubs, so... why don't I just open my own?'

Boss b***h: Fans get a sneak peek into Lindsay Lohan's new show titled Lindsay Lohan's Beach Club in a teaser trailer released on Monday

Getting her groove on: There's also a clip of the Mean Girls star dancing at her club which became a viral sensation over the summer

'Boss b***h.' she adds.

The teaser continues with images of the front and rear of the upscale venue as well as well as scenic shots of the local area, beaches and some of the redheaded beauty herself looking beach chic and glam.

There's also a clip of Lindsay's sexy dancing which went viral over the summer.

The popular clip, which was made into numerous memes and became a dance craze, shows the Parent Trap star showing off her moves during a party at her beach club.

Party girl: The popular clip, which was made into numerous memes, shows the Parent Trap star showing off her moves during a party at her beach club

In charge: Lindsay refers to herself as a 'boss 'b***h* in the clip

'I've gone through so much in my past, people have always given me trouble for going to clubs, so... why don't I just open my own?' Lindsay narrates in the clip

Open for business: The teaser shows off the upscale venue as well as well as scenic shots of the local area

The actress stands by the DJ booth in a shimmery jumpsuit, at one point flipping her long locks in a sultry manner while swaying to the electro beat.

'Welcome to my Mykonos,' Lindsay continues in the teaser.

'To work for me you have to be the best of the best. I want to build an empire here.'

'Did you miss me?' she adds with a cheeky wink to the camera.

Surveying her empire: The trailer also includes shots of Lindsay looking beach chic and glam

Only the best: There's also a glimpse of some of Lindsay's staff that will be helping her along the way

'Did you miss me?' the star adds with a cheeky wink to the camera

The show is described as a docuseries and will follow Lindsay as she launches her new club on Mykonos with the help of her talented team of staff as she expands her business empire in Greece.

A press release for the series reads: 'In Lindsay Lohans Beach Club viewers will get to see a new side of Lohan as she calls the shots with her handpicked team of young and ambitious VIP hosts who will have to do whatever it takes to secure Lohans name as the definition of vacation luxury.

'But when the lines between romance, friendship, and work get blurred, the staff will quickly learn theyll have to prove themselves to their toughest boss yet.'

Lindsay Lohan's Beach Club debuts January 8 on MTV.

Place in the sun: Lindsay's club called Lohan Beach Club opened in Mykonos in the summerPriyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas wed this weekend.

And to celebrate their union, the two posed for Vogue's new January 2019 cover.

On Monday two new images of the power couple from the shoot by Annie Liebovitz were shared. The images evoked Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights.

Smoldering: In a new photos by Annie Leibovitz for Vogue magazine, Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas evoke Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights

Priyanka, 36, went barefoot in a simple off white gown with the straps sliding off her shoulders as she lay across her man's lap on a heath.

In another photo, the couple cuddled up on their feet, with Priyanka tugging at the neckline of Nick's tee while he slipped a hand inside the back of her dress.

They held their wedding functions at the sumptuous Umaid Bhawan palace in Jodhpur over the weekend, beginning on Friday with a Christian service officiated by Nick's pastor father Paul Jonas and ending Sunday with a Hindu ceremony.

The couple arrived in New Delhi Monday for their Tuesday reception in the capital, where their guest list is rumored to include Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Priyanka was wearing her choora - her ceremonial bangles - as well as her sindhoor, a streak of vermilion along the part in her hair indicating she is a married woman.

Sensuous: In another photo, the couple cuddle up on their feet, with Priyanka tugging at the neckline of Nick's tee while he slips a hand inside the back of her dress

Photos and videos have been steadily going public from their Vogue feature, including a clip of Nick serenading Priyanka with his 2016 song Close.

In their joint Vogue profile, Nick recalls sliding into Priyanka's DMs in September 2016 to ask her out. She wrote: My team can read this. Why dont you just text me.'

Their texts were 'friendly with an eye toward flirtation' for months until the next year's Vanity Fair Oscars party, where he says he was so overcome by the sight of her that he went down 'on one knee - this is in front of a bunch of people - and I say: "Youre real. Where have you been all my life?" Like, loud.'

They met for a drink at Manhattan's swank Carlyle Hotel and she invited him up to her apartment - innocently, since her mother Madhu was there.

International couple: They are the stars of Vogue's new January cover, and have been profiled about their romance in the iconic fashion magazine

Still, she was slightly miffed that all she got out of him was a 'back pat,' though as Nick argued: 'Your mom was in the house! I thought it was a respectful first night.'

Shortly thereafter, they walked the 2017 Met Gala for Ralph Lauren - the designer Priyanka wore for her Christian wedding Friday, PinkVilla reports.

After the 'back pat' date, a year elapsed before they finally wound up in each other's company again, with the occasion being the 2018 Met Gala this May.

Their relationship from that point moved rapidly into a proposal this July on a trip to Crete that was ostensibly for Priyanka's birthday.

Party on: On Monday, Priyanka and Nick were spotted heading to New Delhi for a Tuesday reception that will reportedly play host to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Newlyweds: Priyanka was wearing her choora, a ceremonial set of bangles, as well as her sindhoor, a streak of vermilion along the part in her hair indicating she is now a married woman

'I got down on one knee, again, and I said: Will you make me the happiest man in the world and marry me? No joke - she took about 45 seconds. Forty-five seconds of silence,' Nick told Vogue, adding that he eventually told Priyanka: 'Im going to put this ring on your finger now unless you have any objections.'

Nick shut down a Tiffany's to buy her ring, after which Priyanka had her bridal shower at the Blue Box Cafe at the flagship Tiffany & Co. on New York's Fifth Avenue.

The couple's Christian nuptials played host to an 18-foot cake made by personal chefs the groom brought over from Kuwait and Dubai, according to Filmfare.

Priyanka and Nick's Hindu festivities reportedly featured a 40-foot floral canopy called a mandap, and the bride and groom took an elephant ride around the venue.

Lots to do: After the Christian ceremony on Friday came a chockablock Saturday, with the Mehendi during the day (pictured) followed by a Sangeet at night

Festive: Typically held the day before the wedding, the Mehendi is when the bride, as well as female guests at the wedding, have henna tattoos applied to their hands

Nick had a Baaraat - a procession in which the groom arrives at his wedding on a horse, surrounded by his dancing loved ones and a live band.

According to the Bombay Times, Priyanka wore an outfit by the highly regarded designer Sabyasachi Mukherji, who was glimpsed arriving in Jodhpur on Friday.

The Hindu marriage was sealed with a ceremony called Saath Phere, in which the bride and groom walk around a fire seven times to represent seven marital vows.

After the Christian ceremony on Friday came a chockablock Saturday, with the Mehendi during the day followed by a Sangeet at night.

Glamour: According to the Bollywood gossip site PinkVilla , Priyanka attended her Mehendi in a gown by the duo Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla

Luxury: At the Mehendi, Nick's mother Denise Jonas presented her with a $79,500 pair of Van Cleef And Arpels Snowflake earrings, the Bombay Times claimed

Typically held the day before the wedding, the Mehendi is when the bride, as well as female guests at the wedding, have henna tattoos applied to their hands.

Priyanka attended her Mehendi and Sangeet in couture by the duo Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, acclaimed for their work in such Hindi movies as Devdas.

At the Mehendi, Nick's mother Denise Jonas presented her with a $79,500 pair of Van Cleef And Arpels Snowflake earrings, the Bombay Times claimed.

Hours later at the Sangeet, the bride danced to her own film songs before her movie star cousin Parineeti Chopra and some friends acted out the story of her life and relationship with her groom, according to a report in the Bombay Times.

Having a ball: Hours later at the Sangeet, the bride danced to her own film songs before her movie star cousin Parineeti Chopra and some friends acted out the story of her life

Spot Sophie Turner: Both sides of the family hit the stage for the dance numbers, as seen in Priyanka's Instagram album of the Sangeet

The Sangeet attendees arrived to the sight of staff and Kalbeliya tribal dancers carrying torches and modeling the local dress of Rajasthan.

Saturday's festivities concluded with a massive fireworks show outside Umaid Bhawan, which was captured on photo and video from a distance.

Priyanka and Nick's functions happened to fall on the same weekend as the star-studded Bombay reception of Bollywood film star couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh, who wore Sabyasachi to their wedding at Lake Como last month.

The celebrities at Deepika and Ranveer's reception included Kareena Kapoor and her husband Saif Ali Khan, whose ancestral home is another formerly royal residence, the Pataudi Palace designed by British architect Robert Tor Russell.

Family act: The bride and her mother Madhu Chopra danced into the sangeet to Ram Chahe Leela Chahe from the 2013 romantic tragedy Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela

Glorious: Saturday's festivities concluded with a massive fireworks show outside Umaid Bhawan, which was captured on photo and video from a distance

The famous guests at Priyanka's wedding functions include The Only Way Is Essex alumna Jasmin Walia, Armie Hammer's wife Elizabeth Chambers and the Ambanis.

Nick's brothers Joe Jonas, Kevin Jonas and Frankie Jonas were also in attendance, as was Joe's fiancee, Game Of Thrones star Sophie Turner.

Though Priyanka has posted photos of the Mehendi and Sangeet to Instagram, the actual wedding photos have yet to publicly materialize.

History: Built during the British Raj for the ruling family of Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan's name means 'Umaid's Mansion,' a nod to Umaid Singh, the Maharajah of Jodhpur from 1918 to 1947

Jose Villa, whose credits include Tamera Mowry's nuptials and those of Instagram founder Kevin Systrom, snapped Priyanka's wedding pictures and revealed on his Insta Stories that they will appear in an unnamed magazine on an unspecified date.

Built during the British Raj for the ruling family of the princely state of Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan's name means 'Umaid's Mansion,' a nod to Umaid Singh, who was Maharajah of Jodhpur from 1918 until his death two months before independence.

Indian royalty was abolished under Indira Gandhi's government in the 1970s and the palace became a hotel, since when it has reportedly played host to Mick Jagger and been the site of a Sting concert.

It joins several other Indian palaces in this respect, including the 18th century Lake Palace in Udaipur, now a fashionable spot for weddings and honeymoons.She's one of the most in-demand actresses in France - despite hailing from Cornwall.

And Dame Kristin Scott Thomas was lending some star power to the Au Bout Des Doigts premiere in Paris, hosted at UGC Cine Cite Bercy on Monday evening.

The star, 58, was joined by actor Lambert Wilson as she graced the red carpet at the low-key event.

Chic: Dame Kristin Scott Thomas was lending some star power to the Au Bout Des Doigts premiere in Paris, hosted at UGC Cine Cite Bercy on Monday evening

Kristin was effortlessly stylish in a simple yet sophisticated black dress for the occasion.

The star looked incredible in a loose-fitting smock, worn nipped in at the waist with a belt.

She stuck to a sombre palette, pulling her look together with classic black stilettos.

Stylish: Kristin was effortlessly stylish in a simple yet sophisticated black dress for the occasion

Looking good: The age-defying beauty added a pop of colour to her get-up thanks to a slick of rust red lipstick

The age-defying beauty added a pop of colour to her get-up thanks to a slick of rust red lipstick.

Kristin boasts a glittering Hollywood career, securing five BAFTA Award nominations and five Olivier Awards.

Despite stepping away from the limelight, the actress found herself unable to keep away from the silver screen - and after just three years she made her comeback.

Strike a pose: The star was joined by actor Lambert Wilson as she graced the red carpet at the low-key event

The British beauty returned as Winston Churchill's wife Clementine in Darkest Hour opposite Gary Oldman.

She explained to VOGUE in January: 'Id just had it this is the last f**king film, this is the last f**king time. Its the way I earn my living, you know.

'You put one foot in front of the other, you keep going, you just plod through. And I did plod through a lot of them and got into a sort of a lull.'By Olivia Rose

PREMIER Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said the Opposition is "trifling with the territorys governance and she will not wait for the party to "get their act together.





The Government will be moving forward as planned with talks with the UK government on major proposed changes to the constitution, she insisted this week.





A few months ago, the Opposition pulled out of the discussion process designed to pursue constitutional advancement for the TCI.





The PNP indicated that the party would wait until its convention, which was supposed to be held in early November and which would usher in new leadership that may have a new constitutional approach, before committing to the process.





The party did meet in November, but no new leadership or executive was chosen.





The governing Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) later described the decision by the PNP Opposition to pull out of this process as "reckless and said the PDM Government would forge ahead on behalf of the people without them.





Attempting to bring some semblance of clarity to previous discussions between the Government and the Opposition on the proposed constitutional changes, the premier revealed that the Leader of the Opposition Washington Misick removed himself totally from the process and appointed Hon. Akierra Missick to act on his behalf.





In a statement on Tuesday (November 27) she said: "He must be the first Leader of the Opposition to wilfully remove himself from a process as important as the constitution or perhaps it was his intention all along to frustrate the process.





"He stated that it was verbally communicated to me that his party wished to wait on a new leader.





"This is not so, and the contents of an email received on September 6 from Hon. AK Missick stated that her party would not be continuing constitutional talks with us but would wish to discuss stronger recommendations as to self-determination as a first reason and then the point of selecting a new executive who would be tasked with determining whether the PNP continue to engage on the constitution.





She further dismissed claims by the leader of the Opposition who said the UK will only deal with both a Government and Opposition - and stressed that the last changes to the constitution demonstrate otherwise.





"In 2005, the UK dealt with the Government alone and precedent was set when former premier Michael Misick negotiated the final changes to the 2006 Constitution with Lord Triesman of HMG.





"I would hasten to say though that like now, there was a proposal from a bipartisan constitutional committee following public consultations.





"There were clear steps with three rounds of talks which started in TCI. The third round was in October 2005 with a Michael Misick led Government only delegation for two days of meetings in the UK.





"The PDM Opposition were not involved and were granted a 15-minute meeting to discuss.





"The UK minister at the time said there was no need to discuss further as there would have been no change.





"I note the leader of the Oppositions firm stance that the UK has made it clear that they will not and I wish to advise the people of the country that this was not communicated to me in the past or currently and if this is in fact their position, then they would have only communicated this to one party, the Opposition.





Memory loss

According to the premier the Government and Opposition met in April of this year for a second round of talks having had an introductory meeting in Grand Turk.





At the meetings both parties reviewed the submissions of the 2015 report and agreed additions for further discussions.





She said during those deliberations both parties agreed to travel to London together and engage the people of the Islands on the suggested changes.





"My efforts have never left out the genesis of these proposals as the leader of the Opposition must recognise that not all persons suffer memory loss.





"Our efforts have been solely to revive the failed submissions of the former Government whose proposals we supported on behalf of the people whose voice formed the basis.





"Each meeting when presented the opportunity, I spoke with the UK ministers concerning this and the UK through the governor invited the proposals.





"If they are not minded to meet with the Government alone, they have not stated so and the withdrawal of the PNP at this stage from the talks was clearly communicated by me to the UK.





"The UK has not said to me what the leader of the Opposition has said to the people of this country and we remain surprised at the stance taken by the present official Opposition to abandon talks on proposals that they submitted and supported as the Government based on the peoples views.





Harkening back to the constitutional review process initiated in 2002 and completed in 2006, under the former PNP administration, the premier who was then leader of the Opposition, said she "was asked to follow the [Government] blindly to the UK without a known plan.





"What the leader of the Opposition did not remind the people of was the fact that the proposals as submitted by premier Rufus Ewing were all rejected.





"One may recall the statement made by Speaker Robert Hall when the rejection letter was received.





"Submissions were made under the Rufus Ewing led administration in 2015 and within a few weeks, the proposals were all rejected by Her Majestys Government.





"The leader of the Opposition was correct in that it was mid-October when there was a final exchange six weeks or so before elections were constitutionally due.





"It was then that the former premier approached myself as leader of the Opposition and my inquiry was simply what are the steps to take and to this date.





"I had not had a response from him or Governor Peter Beckingham on the path forward and this was necessary to inform the official Opposition who agreed that we would participate.





"I wish to remind the leader of the Opposition that when the constitutional review was carried out in 2002 and completed in 2006, we knew the process: what the UK would accept etc, the number of rounds of talks with the UK and what else was entailed.





The wish of the people

The Sharlene Cartwright Robinson led Government has maintained that the peoples business is too important and the lives of the people are too greatly impacted by not having greater authority in the hands of those they elected through constitutional change.





Noting that constitutional advancement is a lengthy and time consuming process and "it cannot wait for the PNP to get their act together.





Cartwright Robinson said: "I have never played politics with the constitution and will not begin to now, as this is a national matter.





"I will not ask the official Opposition to join me without a road map and they would be foolhardy to do so as former premier Rufus Ewing attempted to do.





"We reject the foolish notion that the country should wait for the PNP to get their act together and to find a leader before we can proceed on an invitation from the UK to talk.





"All OTs are invited to these talks and the constitution again appears on the agenda while in London.





"I will proceed to discuss the proposals and the way forward on behalf of the people of this country.





"The leader of the Opposition and the PNP know full well that the path to what was communicated by Hon. AK Missick on their behalf requires a referendum or general election and that their petty actions now will only serve to frustrate the process.





"A change in leader or executive committee, whichever reason is correct, has no bearing on the wishes of the people already communicated on their behalf.





"The UK does not deal with political parties but with elected officials in governments and oppositions.





"The change in leadership in a party can not affect a peoples wish. Constitutional talks are led by a government with the encouragement of a bi-partisan approach throughout.





"We expect that there will be further dialogue as in time past but are equally confident as the elected Government of the day, precedent will allow us to proceed on our peoples behalf.





"We hope as we do that good sense will prevail and that the PNP Opposition will join the talks whether they are able to find a new leader or not.





Chequered history

The matter of constitution reform has once again become a bone of contention between Britain and most, if not all, of its Caribbean territories, most recently exacerbated by British threats to force the publication of beneficial ownership registers by means of unilateral orders in council.





The TCI has had a very chequered history with Britain, direct rule from London having been re-imposed on the territory on two occasions, the most recent after a 2008-2009 commission of inquiry found evidence of systemic corruption in the then PNP Government.





A new, more restrictive constitution for the TCI was subsequently negotiated, leading to a return to parliamentary democracy in December 2012.





According to Douglas Parnell, an elected member of the local parliament and chairman of the PDM, after ten years of British intervention in legal systems and governance structures in the TCI, it is past time for it to come to an end through constitutional advancement.





"Its unjust to deny change or limit our people, any people for that matter, by erecting legal systems that are designed to keep decision-making power beyond their grasp. We will continue to fight for change, Parnell said.





A delegation from the TCI is expected to travel to the UK, to meet with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office minister responsible for the Overseas Territories on December 6 to discuss these changes.



Aquaman is due out on December 21.

And star Jason Momoa made a splash when he promoted his movie in New York City on Monday.

The 39-year-old was joined by co-stars Amber Heard, 32, who plays Mera, Queen of the Sea, and Ocean Master Patrick Wilson, 45, plus director James Wan, 41, for an interview on the AOL Build series.

Fishing for audiences: Jason Momoa promoted his new movie Aquaman on the AOL Build series in New York City on Monday

The Hawaii-born actor revealed that he hadn't seen the whole movie yet.

When asked why, the proud father dished: 'Because I'm waiting for my babies.'

Jason shares daughter Lola, 11, and son Nakoa-Wolf, nine, with Lisa Bonet, whom he married on October 2017.

'It's gonna be amazing. My kids have never been to an Imax theater. They've never seen anything this big, and I can't even imagine what it's gonna be like for them or what it's gonna be like for me sitting next to them.'

It's all going swimmingly well: The 39-year-old was joined by co-star Amber Heard, 32, who plays Mera, Queen Of The Sea

Jumping in to help: Patrick Wilson, 45, who plays Ocean Master, far left, plus director James Wan, 41, far right, were also in on the fishy fun

And when James teased: 'I imagine of all the stuff you made in the past, kinda hard for them to watch.' And when someone brought up Game Of Thrones, Jason retorted they're not watching that 'ever.'

Meanwhile, it seems he got the role of Arthur Curry, aka Aquaman, by chance after trying out for Batman in the DC Universe - the role that went to Ben Affleck.

He talked about the audition in an interview with the Sydney Morning Herald earlier this month, saying: 'I'm like, "what the f***, I'm not Batman" and they said "listen, it's just a scene, you go in, you read it," ' Jason said.

Drawing the line: Jason's co-stars smiled as he said his children were never 'ever' going to see him in Game Of Thrones

Lining up: Jason revealed he has yet to see Aquaman because he was waiting to watch it on Imax with his children Lola, 11, and son Nakoa-Wolf, nine, with wife Lisa Bonet

'I went in and played the rudest, crudest version of what they made for me, because I knew it was a booby trap.'

He continued: 'So, they liked that and then I got called in about probably two to three weeks later and thats when [director Zack Snyder] laid it down and said, "I want you to play Aquaman," which was completely like "Excuse me? ' he added.

The star played the underwater god in 2016's Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice and Justiced League the following year.Eddie Murphy is a father for the 10th time, the second with his fiancee Paige Butcher, as the happy couple welcomed their son Max.

Max Charles Murphy was born Friday, November 30, weighing six pounds, 11 ounces and measuring 19 inches long.

'Both mother and son are doing well,' a rep told People on Monday.

New father: Eddie Murphy (seen getting coffee in L.A. in November) and his fiancee Paige Butcher welcome their second child on Friday, a son named Max Charles Murphy, the actor's 10th child overall

New mother: Paige Butcher, seen in November with daughter Izzy, welcomed her second child with Eddie Murphy, Max Charles Murphy, on Friday

The couple announced their pregnancy in August, after Butcher showcased her baby bump in public for the first time.

While out shopping in September, Butcher revealed the baby's sexy to TMZ, stating, 'It's going to be a boy' while out shopping.

Murphy, 57, and Butcher, 39, also confirmed in September that they were engaged, although no wedding date has been announced yet.

Paige and Eddie: The couple announced their pregnancy in August, after Butcher showcased her baby bump in public for the first time

A source told People in late August that the couple wanted to have, 'a younger sibling for their daughter.

'They live a pretty low-key life,' the source said in August. 'They are all about family. Paige is very close to Eddies kids.'

Along with Murphy's first child with Butcher, two-year-old Izzy, Murphy has eight other children from four different women.

Eddie's oldest child is 29-year-old Eric, who he had with then-girlfriend Paulette McNeely, and he had his second child, 28-year-old Christian, with another girlfriend, Tamara Hood.

Murphy's next five children were with his first wife, Nicole Mitchell, who he was married to from 1993 to 2005 - Bria, 29, Miles, 26, Shayne, 24, Zola, 18 and Bella, 16.

Back to work: The actor has worked sparingly over the past few years, but he recently wrapped production in Dolemite Is My Name, a biopic about Dolemite star Rudy Ray Moore

After divorcing Mitchell, Murphy dated Spice Girl Melanie Brown, who had a daughter named Angel, 11.

Murphy began dating Australian model Butcher in 2012, after the actor and comedian dated film producer Tracey Edmonds.

The actor has worked sparingly over the past few years, but he recently wrapped production in Dolemite Is My Name, a biopic about Dolemite star Rudy Ray Moore.

He has also been long attached to star in Triplets, a long-gestating sequel to the 1988 comedy hit Twins with Arnold Schwarzengger and Danny DeVito.A western Sydney physiotherapist is due to face court accused of secretly filming patients with a hidden camera.

Officers were called to a Greenfield Park clinic on November 12 after a camera was found concealed in a change room.

Police will allege the camera was hidden in a clothes hook on the wall and patients were filmed getting changed.

A 52-year-old man has been granted bail to face the Fairfield Local Court on Monday charged with two counts of filming a person's private parts without consent, and installing a device to observe or film another.Every year, the White House lights a giant menorah -- seen here in 2015 -- during Hanukkah

US President Donald Trump on Sunday sent greetings to the world's Jews on the first day of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, while pledging "love and support" for the victims of an attack on a Pittsburgh synagogue in October.

"Melania and I send our warmest greetings to our Jewish brothers and sisters in the United States, in Israel, and around the world celebrating Hanukkah," Trump, whose daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner are Jewish, said in a statement.

"We remember all those from the Tree of Life -- Or L'Simcha Congregation -- whose lives were tragically taken in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this past October.

"As one Nation, we pledge our continued love and support for the victims, their families, and the community, and we pray that the victims' families find some measure of peace and comfort during this holiday season."

Every year, the White House lights a giant menorah over the festival's eight days.Around 160 people remain on the island of Nauru, including women and children

Australia's under-pressure government received a double blow Monday from the United Nations and a leading doctors' group over harsh treatment of refugees on off-shore island camps.

In an unusual broadside, a top official for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees accused "bureaucrats and politicians" of overruling doctors and putting lives at risk at camps on Nauru and Manus.

Australia holds unauthorised migrants who try to reach the island continent by boat in "off-shore detention" -- part of a harsh policy designed to deter would-be asylum-seekers.

UNHCR's Catherine Stubberfield decried the policy as "sold too simplistically" and said changing it was now a matter of "basic human treatment and decency."

The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) on Monday also threw its voice behind those calling for the government to change course.

Around 160 people remain on the island of Nauru -- including women and children -- and it is believed as many as 600 men are still in transition centres on Manus after the Australian-run camp there was closed late last year.

The minority government of Prime Minister Scott Morrison has quietly agreed to transfer children off Nauru, but is under fierce pressure to close it completely.

Doctor and independent member of parliament Kerryn Phelps on Monday put forward legislation requiring the temporary transfer from Nauru or Manus of anyone assessed as needing medical treatment as well as the temporary transfer of all children and their families from Nauru.

Eyewitnesses -- including AFP journalists -- have reported a dire situation on Nauru, with families living under constant fear of loved ones committing suicide.

On Monday, Medecins Sans Frontieres also reported that almost a third of the people they had treated on Nauru before being expelled by the government in October had reported attempted suicide.

A dozen patients, the organisation said, had been diagnosed with "resignation syndrome" -- a condition that causes people to withdraw into themselves in an almost comatose state.

David Isaacs of the RACP, a paediatrician who treated children on Nauru in 2015, said access to medical care "must be determined by a doctor - not a politician".

"There is a medical crisis in offshore detention," said Isaacs. "It is a crisis that is entirely preventable. The government can act to end it."

Polls show that a large number of Australians would like to bring the remaining children off Nauru, but are split on whether the broader population should be brought to Australia.

The tough offshore detention policy is popular with Morrison's right-wing base, which he needs to shore up dwindling support in parliament ahead of national elections due to be held by May.

Morrison has argued the policy deters people smugglers and saves lives.

"There are more medical professionals on Nauru, than there are children," he claimed last month.

But the latest volley from the UNHCR will only add to the pressure.

"Australia retains responsibility for those it has relocated under so-called 'offshore processing'," warned Stubberfield.

She suggested the government policy was partly responsible for the death of 24-year-old Hamid Khazaei, who died of sepsis contracted on Manus Island.

"Had he been evacuated to Australia within 24 hours of developing severe sepsis, Khazaei would have survived."Six-year-old Warapnong Ponde is given a polio vaccination in a mobile clinic in rural Papua New Guinea, as the impoverished country fights a new outbreak of a disease which had previously been eradicated

Decades after polio was eradicated from Papua New Guinea, the crippling and sometimes deadly disease has returned, leaving doctors scrambling to revive long-lapsed vaccination programmes.

Until earlier this year, the polio virus was endemic in only three countries in the world: Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan.

But a relatively rare strain is now spreading throughout rugged, jungle-cloaked Papua New Guinea, one of the world's poorest countries.

Since the first case was detected in April -- paralysing a six-year-old boy named Gafo near the northern coast -- polio has infected dozens more nationwide, prompting the government to declare a national emergency.

Papua New Guinea's poor roads and unforgiving terrain -- particularly in the central highlands -- are major obstacles for the nationwide vaccination programme

Papua New Guinea, which today has a population of around eight million people, thought it had eradicated the wild variant of the virus in 1996, and was certified polio-free in 2000.

But since then, experts say, lapsed vaccination programmes and poor sanitation have left an open invitation for the prehistoric disease to return.

"It's not a sudden surprise," said Monjur Hossain, a UNICEF expert living in Port Moresby.

"The government knew about it," he told AFP. "We all knew about it."

Maria Ponde and her daughter Warapnong wait to recieve a polio vaccine. Warapnong has already missed a few courses of the vaccine and only received this one by fluke, underscoring the scattershot response

In a cruel twist, the virus afflicting Papua New Guineans today -- clinically known as VDPV1 -- started life as a vaccine.

The much-weakened version of the polio virus was first ingested as an oral vaccine, before spreading throughout the community via feces.

Because of low-levels of immunisation, the harmless attenuated virus continued to circulate person-to-person for a long period of time, allowing it to mutate into a more virulent strain.

Similar localised outbreaks of vaccine-derived polio have been previously detected in the Horn of Africa, Syria and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Mount Hagen is the Western Highlands is a challenging location for health workers to access

Still, healthcare workers are adamant that the benefits of vaccination programmes massively outweigh the risk of vaccine-derived polio.

World Health Organization experts estimate well over 10 million cases of polio have been averted worldwide since widespread vaccination began two decades ago, a 99 percent reduction.

But even with modern treatment, an estimated one in 100 cases of polio results in irreversible paralysis. A fraction of those who are paralysed die.

- 'Very expensive, very tough' -

Doctors in Papua New Guinea are trying to respond to the crisis by providing countrywide immunisation -- with at least three oral doses for each child.

Hundreds of thousands have already been vaccinated.

Despite government and international support, the country's lack of roads and unforgiving terrain -- particularly in the central highlands -- have made that task difficult.

Many villages can only be reached by air, or by day-long river trips.

Basic mobile trailers are used by health workers in the vaccination programme which is backed by the WHO

Throw into the mix tribal violence, malnutrition, drought, multiple outbreaks of other diseases like measles and the aftermath of a massive February earthquake and things become more difficult still.

"It's really challenging in terms of access, in terms of logistics," said Hossain. "It's very expensive and very tough."

One answer has been to create mobile clinics that travel to villages far from populous areas like Mount Hagen -- which itself has very few paved roads.

At one such clinic near Mount Hagen's rough-and-tumble market, health worker Margaret Akima is virtually dragging mothers and their children into her barebones trailer.

In the first few days after setting up, she administered more than 100 doses of polio vaccine a day. By the final day of the two week stint, it is down to around 50.

From amid the throngs of bored men -- fighting, shouting and playing darts -- Akima picks out 37-year-old Maria Ponde.

She has travelled to Mount Hagen with her six-year-old daughter Warapnong to buy a spade head.

"I was not expecting her to get vaccinated," Ponde said as the dose was administered to her daughter.

Warapnong has already missed a few courses of the vaccine and only received this one by fluke, underscoring how scattershot the response still is.US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo (L) is greeted by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Ministry of Defence in Tel Aviv on April 29, 2018

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was to hold talks with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels on Monday, a day after police recommended the premier's indictment in a third graft case.

Netanyahu's office said the meeting had been set last week, but provided few other details.

US President Donald Trump's top diplomat was to be in Brussels for a NATO meeting of foreign ministers on Tuesday.

"I will discuss with Mike Pompeo a series of regional developments as well as the steps we are taking together to block the aggression of Iran and its proxies in the north," Netanyahu said before departing, referring to Syria and Lebanon.

"Of course we will also discuss other issues."

They were to meet on Monday evening, with Netanyahu accompanied by the head of Israeli spy agency Mossad, the head of his national security council and his military secretary.

Trump has pledged unwavering support for Israel and has pushed ahead with controversial policies such as moving the US embassy to Jerusalem.

Israel and the United States have also worked closely on a range of issues, particularly related to Iran.

Both have warned of Iran's presence in Syria, which neighbours Israel.

Netanyahu has pledged to stop arch-foe Iran from entrenching itself militarily in Syria and to keep it from transferring advanced weapons to its ally Hezbollah in Lebanon.

There has been increased attention in Israel in recent days over Israeli officials' concerns regarding Iranian activity in Lebanon.

The Israeli premier has also pursued ties with Arab Gulf nations that have no official diplomatic relations with his country and the United States has backed him in those efforts.

Netanyahu's trip comes a day after police recommended indicting him and his wife Sara for bribery and other offences, the third such move against him in recent months.

The attorney general must now decide whether to indict Netanyahu, who rejects the accusations against him in all three cases.Martin Griffiths (C), the UN special envoy for Yemen, arrives at Sanaa international airport on November 21, 2018

The UN envoy for Yemen was scheduled to arrive in the rebel-held capital Monday, a UN source said, as pressure mounted to reopen Sanaa international airport after a three-year shutdown.

Envoy Martin Griffiths was expected to hold talks with Yemen's Huthi rebels in Sanaa, the UN source told AFP on condition of anonymity, ahead of potential negotiations in Sweden this month aimed at ending nearly four years of war in the Arab world's poorest country.

A Saudi-led military coalition allied with the Yemeni government against the Iran-backed Huthis announced it would allow for the evacuation of wounded rebels on a UN chartered plane Monday.

The decision is a key step in kickstarting stalled negotiations, as world powers press for an end to the conflict that has pushed Yemen to the brink of famine.

The United Nations source told AFP the reopening of Sanaa international airport, controlled by the rebels and largely destroyed by Saudi-led air raids, was a priority at the planned peace talks.

Saudi Arabia and its allies control Yemen's maritime borders and airspace and have severely restricted imports to the country, where the UN warns 14 million people risk starvation.

The alliance accuses the Huthis of smuggling arms from Iran through Sanaa airport and Yemen's many ports.

Yemen's Huthi rebels announced at the weekend that Sanaa international airport could now meet the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to "receive civilian flights".

The ICAO has not released a statement on Sanaa airport.

A UN panel of experts this year said the "effective closure" of Sanaa airport since 2015, when the Saudi-led alliance intervened in the Yemen war, constituted a violation of international humanitarian law.

More than 10,000 people have been killed since the Saudi-led coalition joined the Yemen war in an attempt to bolster President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi's standing against the rebels, who had seized the capital and a string of ports in a takeover the year before.

Multiple UN-sponsored attempts to find a solution to the Yemen conflict have failed.

UN envoy Griffiths had initially announced Sanaa international airport would reopen in September, when the rebels and government were due in Geneva for talks.

The talks fell through before they began, as the rebels refused to leave Sanaa unless the UN could guarantee the evacuation of wounded fighters and the safe return of their delegation from Switzerland.

burs-str-sy-ny/rscRussia's Soyuz rocket successfully launched into orbit

A Soyuz spacecraft carrying Russian, American and Canadian astronauts arrived at the International Space Station on Monday, following the first manned launch since a failed launch in October.

Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, Anne McClain of NASA and David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency blasted off from Kazakhstan's Baikonur Cosmodrome earlier in the day.

They successfully docked at the ISS on schedule at 1736 GMT to begin an expected six and a half months aboard the ISS, the Russian Roscosmos space agency said via Twitter.

It was the first manned voyage for the Soviet-era Soyuz since October 11, when a rocket carrying Russia's Aleksey Ovchinin and US astronaut Nick Hague failed just minutes after blast-off, forcing the pair to make a harrowing emergency landing.

They escaped unharmed but the failed launch -- the first such incident in Russia's post-Soviet history -- raised concerns about the state of the Soyuz programme.

Anne McClain, Oleg Kononenko, and David Saint-Jacques say risk is just part of their job

The Soyuz is the only means of reaching the ISS since the United States retired the space shuttle in 2011.

Kononenko, McClain and Saint-Jacques smiled and gave thumbs up to the cheering crowd including relatives as they ascended into the Soyuz capsule on Monday morning.

Minutes after take off, Roscosmos said the capsule was in orbit. NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine meanwhile thanked the US and Russian teams "for their dedication to making this launch a success".

- Risk 'part of our profession' -

A Soyuz rocket failed just minutes after blast-off in October

In a successful rehearsal for Monday's flight, a Soyuz cargo vessel took off on November 16 from Baikonur and delivered several tonnes of food, fuel and supplies to the ISS.

Russia said last month the October launch had failed because of a sensor damaged during assembly at the Baikonur cosmodrome, but insisted the spacecraft remained reliable.

While flight commander Kononenko is beginning his fourth mission to add to an impressive 533 days in space, both Saint-Jacques and McClain are making their maiden trip.

Crew commander Kononenko, 54, said during a press conference on the eve of the launch that "risk is part of our profession".

But he added that his team "absolutely" trusted those who had prepared for the flight.

European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst, NASA's Serena Aunon-Chancellor and Sergei Prokopyev of Roscosmos were set to greet the trio on arrival at the ISS.

The astronauts are heading for a six-and-a-half month mission on the International Space Station

Veteran Kononenko said the crew would conduct a spacewalk on December 11 as part of an investigation into a mysterious hole that has caused an air leak on the ISS.

While on board, Saint-Jacques will be involved in an experiment called "At Home in Space" which "takes a closer look at how crew members adapt to living with each other by creating a shared culture," according to the Canadian Space Agency.

Among the dozens of other experiments the new crew members will take part in is one that will use worms to examine muscle loss in space, led by British scientists.

The experiment could pave the way to new treatments for muscular conditions for people on Earth, according to the UK Space Agency.

- 'Spacewalking like rugby' -

The launch comes after a failed mission on October 11

McClain, 39, served in Iraq and has represented the United States in women's rugby.

She has said that training to spacewalk resembled the sport since it demands "grit, toughness, mental focus, and more".

Russia-US cooperation in space has remained one of the few areas not affected by a crisis in ties between the former Cold War enemies.

But comments by the combative chief of the Russian space agency, Dmitry Rogozin, have raised eyebrows.

He recently joked Russia would send a mission to the Moon to "verify" whether or not NASA lunar landings ever took place.

In recent years Russia's debt-laden space industry has suffered a number of mishaps including the loss of cargo spacecraft and satellites.

At a press conference following the successful docking, Rogozin announced March 1, 2019, as the date for the next manned launch to the ISS.

He said Ovchinin and Hague would be on board, along with NASA's Christina Koch.UN envoy Horst Koehler (C) visits a camp for Sahrawi refugees on the outskirts of Tindouf, Algeria on October 18, 2017

A UN envoy is set to host an "initial round-table" in Geneva this week between Morocco and the Polisario Front in a bid to kick-start dialogue on the disputed Western Sahara region.

"It is time to open a new chapter in the political process", said UN envoy Horst Koehler in an October invitation letter.

Six years after direct talks broke down, the meeting is expected to take place on Wednesday and Thursday, with neighbouring Algeria and Mauritania also attending.

A former Spanish colony, phosphate-rich Western Sahara sits on the western edge of the vast eponymous desert, stretching around 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) along the fish-abundant Atlantic coastline.

When Spain withdrew from the North African territory in 1975, Rabat sent thousands of people across the border and claimed it was an integral part of Morocco.

The following year the Polisario Front declared Western Sahara the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), with support from Algeria and Libya, and demanded a referendum on self-determination to resolve the dispute.

But as the stalemate continued, Morocco built razor-wire-topped concentric sand walls in the desert that still ring 80 percent of the territory it controls.

A 1991 ceasefire saw the UN deploy a peacekeeping mission which has perpetuated the line of control, but the international community has long intended a referendum be held to decide the territory's status.

Rabat currently rejects any vote in which independence is an option, arguing that only granting autonomy is on the table and that this is necessary for regional security.

- Living in limbo -

Awaiting a settlement, between 100,000 and 200,000 refugees live precariously in camps in western Algeria, near the city of Tindouf.

The last round of direct talks were launched by the UN in 2007 but got bogged down 2012, as the opposing sides proved unable to compromise over the territory's status and the proposed referendum.

Leading the diplomatic efforts since 2017, Koehler -- a former president of Germany -- has already met the key protagonists several times, albeit separately.

His efforts have paved the way for the Polisario, Morocco, Algeria and Mauritania to sit at the same table, even if the format has not been unanimously agreed.

Algeria wants to participate only as an "observer country", but Rabat considers it a "stakeholder" in the discussions, since Algiers is the Polisario's main backer.

A UN briefing note says the Geneva meeting represents "a first step... with the aim of reaching a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution which will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara".

But the itinerary remains vague, outlining the delegations will take "stock of recent developments, address regional issues, and discuss the next steps in the political process on Western Sahara".

According to one diplomatic source, the plan is not to put too much pressure on this first meeting.

Instead, it should be considered more of a "warming up" exercise aimed at "breaking the ice", especially given still-poor relations between Rabat and Algiers.

The situation remains "generally calm" along the line of control, despite tensions that resurfaced in early 2018, according to a UN report.

For the Polisario, a recent reduction in the UN peacekeepers' mandate from 12 months to six months is part of a "dynamic" created by Koehler's appointment.

The UN Security Council adopted a US-drafted resolution in October to renew the peacekeeping mission and throw its weight behind the planned talks.

But ahead of the Geneva meeting, all sides are sticking to their positions, even as they signal their goodwill.

While supporting a "durable" political solution marked by a "spirit of compromise", King Mohammed VI said in a recent speech that Morocco will not yield on its "territorial integrity", including control over Western Sahara.

Key Polisario official Mhamed Khadad told AFP ahead of attending the Geneva talks "everything can be negotiated except the inalienable and imprescriptible right of our people to self-determination."

Reflecting its status as the Polisario's main supporter, Algeria likewise speaks of this "inalienable and imprescriptible" right.

In a recent official statement, Algiers said it would head to Geneva favouring "frank and fair" direct negotiations between the Polisario and Morocco aimed at building a definitive solution.Syrian refugees check the damage following a fire that ripped through their refugee camp in the village of Yammouneh in Lebanon's eastern Bekaa Valley on December 3, 2018

A fire ripped through a refugee camp in Lebanon on Monday killing two Syrians, including a boy, and burning nearly two dozen tents, a local official said.

Around 1.5 million Syrians have sought shelter in Lebanon from the seven-year civil war raging next door, with many living in camps in the Bekaa Valley in the east of the country.

The fire in the northeastern town of Yammouneh early Monday "killed a 46-year-old man as well as a boy aged seven or eight", deputy mayor Hussein Shreif said.

It "burnt down 23 of 70 tents in the camp," he told AFP, adding it was not immediately clear what started the fire.

But after the initial spark, "the explosion of a fuel container in one of the tents caused the fire to spread," he said.

Security forces and a UN team were dispatched to the area of the camp, he said.

One of the refugees told AFP: "At 3:00 am, we heard screaming. Then we saw flames (spreading) and we couldn't put them out."

An AFP photographer saw people milling amid the cinders of former tents, nothing remaining of them but a few metal poles.

Around 1.5 million Syrians have sought shelter in Lebanon from the seven-year civil war raging next door, many living in camps in the country's eastern Bekaa Valley

Near a field of red earth, a young girl in a green hoodie picked through a pile of clothes that had survived the fire.

Lebanon's national news agency, NNA, said "civil defence put out the fire with difficulty due to the low visibility, thick fog and smoke."

Fires have often erupted in Syrian refugee camps, where many depend on international aid for their survival.

Security forces also regularly sweep down on the informal settlements.

On Wednesday, further to the east in the area of Arsal, the army detained hundreds of Syrians, including over no or expired identity documents.

Since the start of the year, thousands of Syrians have gone home to their country, according to an AFP tally, in returns coordinated between the authorities in Beirut and Damascus.

Lebanese authorities waive late fines for those whose residency papers have expired if they agree to return to Syria.

The Syrian conflict has killed more than 360,000 people and forced millions from their homes since it started with the brutal repression of anti-government protests in 2011.The university is funded by US investor George Soros and is viewed by the Hungarian prime minister as a hostile bastion of liberalism

Hungary's Central European University announced Monday it had been "forced" to move its most prestigious programmes to Vienna after a long and bitter legal battle with Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government.

"CEU has been forced out," Michael Ignatieff, rector of the university founded by US-Hungarian billionaire George Soros, said in a statement. "This is unprecedented. A US institution has been driven out of a country that is a NATO ally."

The university said it would begin teaching all US-accredited programmes in a new site in Vienna starting in September 2019.

However, CEU will keep its Budapest campus and those students who have enrolled there will be able to complete their studies.

Attracting students from over 100 countries and mainly offering US-accredited masters programmes, CEU has long been regarded by the nationalist Orban as a hostile bastion of liberalism.

Founded by the Hungarian-born Soros in 1991 and chartered in the US state of New York, the CEU says it was the target of a law passed April 2017 that placed tough requirements on foreign universities.

The bill's adoption, seen by critics as a blow against academic freedom, was cited in a recent scathing EU report on Hungary that prompted the European Parliament to launch unprecedented so-called "Article 7" legal action against Budapest in September.

CEU says it has since complied with the law by opening a facility in New York State that US regulators have confirmed as hosting educational activities.

But a government spokesperson has called the American site "a Potemkin campus" that fails to satisfy the new rules and has refused to sign an agreement with the USA authorities that would let CEU continue to operate.Togo has been hit by a wave of protests since September last year, calling for the president to step down and for constitutional reform limiting presidential mandates

Togo's opposition coalition has called for workers across the country to stay at home on Tuesday as campaigning starts for parliamentary elections later this month.

The West African nation's main opposition has vowed to boycott elections over alleged fraud and is demanding President Faure Gnassingbe resign after more than a decade in power.

"We don't want fraudulent elections in this country," coalition coordinator Brigitte Adjamagbo-Johnson said in a video published on social media on Sunday evening.

"The next step is a shutdown on December 4," she said, calling the start of campaigning "a day of shame for those who still believe they can do what they want with people's futures".

On Saturday, several thousand supporters of 14 opposition parties took to the streets of the capital, Lome, and elsewhere, in the third anti-government protests in two weeks.

The coalition has objected to the composition of Togo's Independent National Election Commission (CENI) and wants it revamped.

Togo has been hit by a wave of protests since September last year, calling for Gnassingbe to step down and for constitutional reform limiting presidential mandates.

Gnassingbe has been in power since the death of his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, in 2005. Eyadema himself ruled Togo for 38 years.

In an interview on Sunday, civil service minister Gilbert Bawara told local media that parliamentary elections "will definitely take place on December 20".

Campaigning will start on Tuesday and the government had taken "all steps necessary" to ensure the electoral process goes off smoothly and safely, he said.

"We are in a situation where political parties have freely decided -- for reasons best known to themselves -- not to participate in these elections," he said.

"We have to respect their choice."A wounded Yemeni rebel is transported by ambulance to Sanaa International Airport, before being evacuated to the Omani capital Muscat for treatment, on December 3, 2018

Wounded Yemeni rebels were flown out of Sanaa on a UN charter flight Monday for medical treatment in Oman, an airport source told AFP, a critical step towards planned peace talks.

The source said the flight had taken off at 6:00 pm (1500 GMT) carrying 50 wounded rebels, their escorts and a team of doctors.

A UN source confirmed that wounded rebels had been evacuated from the Yemeni capital in what was a "confidence-building measure" aimed at pushing ahead with negotiations between Huthi rebels and a rival Saudi-led military coalition this month.

UN envoy Martin Griffiths landed in Sanaa on Monday for talks with the rebels.

The fate of wounded Huthis had been a stumbling block to the start of a previous round of aborted peace talks in Geneva in September, when the rebel delegation refused to leave Sanaa for the scheduled negotiations.

The Huthis, who are linked to Iran, have said they will now attend the talks in Sweden if they are guaranteed safe passage.

The United Nations has described Yemen as the world's worst humanitarian disaster, with at least 10,000 people killed since the Saudi-led coalition intervened in 2015 to bolster the embattled government.

Rights groups fear the actual toll is far higher.

The war and failing economy have pushed 14 million people, roughly half of Yemen's population, to the brink of famine.Qatari billionaire Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani with some of his private collection in Doha

A startling exhibition in Paris, drawn from the Arab world's biggest private art collection, shows the dizzying mix of cultures in the Gulf in the past with Chinese korans and Persian rugs of the Virgin Mary.

The show at the Paris headquarters of UNESCO, the world cultural and scientific body, is taken from the vast treasury of artworks amassed by Qatari billionaire Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani.

"The Majlis -- Cultures in Dialogue" takes the name of the traditional spaces where guests were sat down and entertained in the Gulf to show how ideas were exchanged in the region, often in unexpected ways.

It shows how Islamic, Jewish, Indian, Christian, Buddhist and African imagery and symbolism was mixed and shared in an enormous number of objects and manuscripts over centuries.

For the sheikh, a distant cousin of Qatar's emir, it proves that "the great religions are united by shared moral honesty and authenticity".

It was a "lack of culture" that leads fanatics to destroy historic sides in Mali, Syria or Afghanistan, he told AFP.

"We think that globalisation is new, but these works show the links between empires," said his daughter, Sheikha Alanoud bint Hamad Al Thani, pointing to a rug showing Germany's Kaiser Wilhlem II and his family surrounded by the heads of Persian rulers.

Another curious Persian rug from the first half of the 19th century shows "51 of the most eminent figures of the universe" including Confucius, Moses, Socrates, Jesus, Alexander the Great, Christopher Columbus and Napoleon.

The show, which will go on tour to the US, Britain, Austria, Germany, Turkey and China after closing in Paris in March, is drawn from the sheikh's museum in Qatar.

Its Paris run at UNESCO ends on December 14 when it transfers to the city's Arab World Institute (Institut du Monde Arabe).This handout picture provided by the Moroccan Royal Palace on December 3, 2018 shows Morocco's King Mohamed VI (L) visiting Gabon's President Ali Bongo at the military hospital in the capital Rabat

Morocco's King Mohammed VI on Monday visited Gabon's President Ali Bongo at a military hospital in Rabat where the Gabonese leader is recovering from an illness, an official source said.

During the visit, the king said he was pleased about the state of Bongo's health which he said was improving by the day, according to the Moroccan source.

Bongo thanked the king for "his warm welcome and attention" since the president's arrival in the Moroccan capital, the royal palace said.

The palace issued a handout picture of King Mohammed sitting next to Bongo who was smiling at him and dressed in a turban and djellaba robe.

The publication of the photo and the subsequent release of a video of the encounter come after persistent rumours over the health of the Gabonese president for more than a month.

Bongo was flown to Morocco on Thursday from Saudi Arabia where he had been in hospital since October 24 after falling ill at an economic forum.

After an extended period of silence, the Gabonese presidency eventually admitted last month that Bongo was "seriously ill" and had undergone surgery, but said he was on the mend.

His recovery would take weeks, or even days, a source in the presidency said last week.

A lack of official news -- along with memories of the secrecy-shrouded death of Bongo's father Omar Bongo in 2009 after decades at the helm -- had sparked numerous rumours, including speculation he was incapacitated or even dead.

The Bongo family has governed Gabon for five decades.

Ali Bongo was elected head of state after his father's death.

He was narrowly re-elected in 2016 after beating opposition challenger Jean Ping by a few thousand votes following a presidential poll marred by deadly violence and allegations of fraud.Diezani Alison-Madueke, seen here in 2014 when oil minister, was arrested in Britain in October 2015 in a graft investigation

Nigeria's main anti-corruption agency on Monday filed for the arrest of former oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke after a judge approved a request for her to be charged with corruption.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) said in a statement the application for warrant of arrest was a "condition precedent for Diezani's extradition" to face trial.

Alison-Madueke was arrested in Britain in October 2015 in a graft investigation where she was linked to a string of money laundering, bribery and asset recovery cases in Nigeria, Italy and the United States.

She has been on bail in Britain since.

EFCC chairman Ibrahim Magu last month said he wanted Alison-Madueke to be extradited from Britain, but said the process was taking too long.

In the latest agency statement, the EFCC said it would submit details of the case against Alison-Madueke at a court in the capital, Abuja, on Tuesday to back up its application for her arrest.

Meanwhile, the body said a judge had granted permission for Alison-Madueke to be charged for "offences bordering on conspiracy" and illegally "accepting and giving gratifications".

She would face five counts under Nigeria's Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000 alongside her associate, former oil boss Jide Omokore, at a hearing set for February 25, it added.

Omokore is a former chairman of the Atlantic Drilling Company.

His company was awarded oil contracts by Alison-Madueke, who served under former president Goodluck Jonathan until 2015 and was the first female head of OPEC.

The pair are alleged "to have accepted and given gifts" on two properties in the upmarket Ikoyi and Banana Island areas of Lagos.

Both apartments were owned by companies linked to the former minister.

Omokore is already involved in another case in which he faces nine charges of "criminal diversion of funds" totalling $1.6 billion, allegedly the proceeds of government oil sales.

His three co-defendants were senior executives at the state-run Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.

EFCC prosecutor Faruk Abdullahi told the court Alison-Madueke had been under investigation for her alleged involvement at the time of her arrest in Britain.A gold-plated weapon is displayed at the Pakistani stand during Egypt's first arms fair in Cairo on December 3, 2018

Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Monday inaugurated the first arms fair organised in Cairo, with hundreds of companies exhibiting.

Sisi cut the ribbon along with French Defence Minister Florence Parly to open Egypt Defence Expo (EDEX 2018), held on the outskirts of the capital.

Forty countries are represented at the three-day event in Egypt, one of the Middle East's top military powers, organisers said.

After the opening, Sisi was taken on a guided tour along with military officials of the massive fair, where according to authorities around 400 companies are exhibiting.

Among the items on display are US armoured personnel carriers, Indian and Saudi assault rifles, gold-plated firearms from Pakistan, and models of French-made Rafale fighter jets.

The show highlights the "strength of the country," said the Egyptian minister for military production, Mohamed al-Assar.

"We are exhibiting our products because Egypt's military production has its place on the world market," he told AFP.

The United States, a major ally of Egypt, has the largest number of foreign companies represented.

Defence Minister Mohamed Ahmed Zaki said Egypt was looking to strengthen its security capabilities.

"The army... seeks to acquire strength from its cooperation with countries that value security and peace to roll back all forms of aggression on Egyptian soil," he said at the opening ceremony.

He later held talks with his French counterpart and the Egyptian president, according to a statement from the Egyptian presidency.

President Sisi "underlined the deep strategic relations between Egypt and France and valued ongoing cooperation across various fields, especially military cooperation," said the statement.

During their meeting, Parly "affirmed the importance that France attaches to enhancing and strengthening partnership with Egypt at various levels, including the military and security levels," it added.

Military cooperation between Egypt and France has significantly increased since Sisi took office in 2014.

The following year Egypt signed deals worth six billion euros ($6.8 billion) to purchase 24 Rafale fighter jets from France, as well as other military hardware such as Mistral warships and missiles.

International human rights organisations have long accused Egypt of using weapons made in Europe against civilians to suppress opposition and activists, accusations Cairo has systemically denied.JERUSALEM (AP) - Israel's prime minister says he will soon travel to the central African nation of Chad to officially restore relations.

Benjamin Netanyahu made the announcement Tuesday in a meeting with visiting Chadian President Idriss Deby in Jerusalem. Deby's visit is the first by a president of Chad, a Muslim-majority country that broke off relations with Israel in 1972.

Netanyahu says they discussed cooperation in agriculture, counterterrorism, border protection and technology.

Netanyahu has made great efforts to extend Israeli diplomacy to Africa and has visited the continent several times in recent years. It's part of an overall policy of seeking allies among developing countries that have historically sided with the Palestinians at the U.N. and other international forums. Chad has played a key role in combatting jihadi groups in the Sahara.By Delana Isles

DIRECTOR of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), Ben Merrick, was recently on a tour of British overseas territories in the Caribbean region.





On his list of stops last week were the Turks and Caicos Islands, British Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands.





During his brief visit to the TCI, Merrick met with Governor John Freeman, Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, Opposition members, several other officials, members of civil society, local newspaper publishers and visited a number of locations and institutions around the territory including Her Majestys Prison in Grand Turk.





Merrick was appointed as Director of Overseas Territories in the FCO in the United Kingdom in August 2017, in which role he holds office as Commissioner of the British Antarctic Territory and Commissioner of the British Indian Ocean Territory.





Previously he was the Deputy Director of the Overseas Territories and has worked in the Ministry of Defence and Cabinet Office.





He is responsible for UK policy towards its overseas territories, with a particular focus on good governance and the rule of law, economic sustainability and international relations.





His visits came at a time when after months of negotiation, the United Kingdom and the European Union have agreed on a two-part Brexit deal and a withdrawal agreement.





During his time in the TCI, the overseas territories director would have also discussed with the premier and the governor, the territorys recently submitted constitutional change requests which were updated, redrafted and dispatched to London a few short weeks ago.





Other areas of interests during the visit, this publication learned, related to post hurricane recovery and the UKs continued assistance to the Turks and Caicos Islands.





The visit was also on the heels of the announcement of an investigation by the Foreign Affairs Committee (FAC) into the Britains relationship with its overseas territories.





Late last month, the premier had indicated that she would be travelling to London on December 6 to meet with officials to talk about the territorys relationship with Britain.





The FACs latest investigation - announced in July - is largely seen as carving a future path for OTs governance and level of autonomy.





There are fears, both in the TCI and other OTs, of the impact Brexit might have on the UKs territories, amid criticism that they were not adequately consulted on the matter.





In October, representatives for the Cayman Islands and Bermuda were among the first witnesses to appear before a parliamentary select committee as a result of the new inquiry.





On October 16, written submissions from human rights and political experts were published, along with a lengthy report from FCO.





The FCO noted that the inquiry came "at a time of change for the OTs as Brexit approaches but said the British government believed the 14 territories future was "bright and challenges would be met by "working together with the UK.





The FCO pledged that Londons commitment to helping the OTs build resilient economies, improve standards of governance and protect their environments "would not waver.



HONOLULU (AP) - A Hawaiian Airlines plane bound for Sydney returned to Honolulu after takeoff on Sunday because of a possible mechanical problem.

An airline spokeswoman says the flight was diverted just over an hour after takeoff due to a possible problem with one of its three hydraulic systems. The flight to Australia normally takes about 10 hours.

Spokeswoman Ann Botticelli says there was no emergency and the plane landed without incident.

There were 201 passengers aboard Flight No. 451. Botticelli says passengers are being re-accommodated on the first available aircraft.DALLAS (AP) - Former President George H.W. Bush teamed up with the man who ousted him from the White House to help victims of natural disasters. He created a program that has honored thousands of American volunteers. He also sent U.S. troops to Africa to help starving Somalis.

It was all part of Bush's vision for creating what he called a "kinder, gentler nation." Here's a look at some of the better known volunteer and humanitarian work credited to Bush, who died late Friday at age 94:

VOLUNTEERISM

Bush evoked the vision of a "thousand points of light" during his 1989 inaugural address, inviting the nation to take action through public service, and established the Daily Point of Light Award the next year. He formally recognized more than 1,000 volunteers during his administration, from Jesse Sanchez Berain, an Idaho man who helped migrant workers and their children, to Doris Tate, who advocated for victims' rights after her daughter, actress Sharon Tate, was killed.

During a White House ceremony Bush attended in 2013 to bestow the 5,000th award, then-President Barack Obama credited Bush with expanding a commitment to service in America. "Your love of service has kindled a similar love in the hearts of millions here at home and around the world," Obama said. "And, frankly, just the fact that you're such a gentleman and such a good and kind person I think helps to reinforce that spirit of service."

CHARITABLE WORK

FILE - In this Jan. 1, 1993, file photo, U.S. President George H.W. Bush greets Somali children applauding him during a visit to an orphanage in famine-ravaged Baidoa. Bush was on a two-day visit to Somalia to review Operation Restore Hope. In his final weeks as president, Bush sent U.S. troops to Somalia to help pacify warring clans and protect overland shipments of food to starving Somalis. He said at the time: "These are humanitarian concerns, and in my view it is proper that the president show this concern to the people over there." (AP Photo/Jerome Delay, File)

As he accepted his party's nomination for president in 1988, Bush said he was guided by certain traditions: "One is that there is a God and He is good, and His love, while free, has a self-imposed cost: We must be good to one another."

After leaving office, Bush teamed up with former President Bill Clinton, who defeated Bush for his second term in the White House, to raise money for victims of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. They also worked together on fundraising after Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and Hurricane Ike in 2008. And in 2017, Bush and four other living former presidents appeared together at a concert to raise money following hurricanes in Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands.

Bush and his wife Barbara, who died in April, devoted much of their work to promoting cancer research - their daughter Robin died at age 3 of leukemia - and they were life members of the MD Anderson Cancer Center Board of Visitors. A family spokesman said the couple made "substantial" personal gifts to a dozen organizations including medical centers, but that they didn't want to publicly reveal the amounts.

HELPING THOSE WITH DISABILITIES

Bush signed the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act, which bans workplace discrimination of people with disabilities and requires improved access to public places and transportation. The law was a special point of pride for Bush, said Mark Updegrove, who wrote several books on the American presidency.

"He was very proud of the fact that it liberated so many people who we didn't give much thought to - not knowing the obstacles they faced on a daily basis," said Updegrove, president of the Lyndon B. Johnson Foundation.

WORLD AFFAIRS

The Berlin Wall came down as Bush's first year in office came to a close, followed two years later by the Soviet Union's collapse. Bush's steady diplomatic hand helped ensure a peaceful end to the Cold War and he avoided any great "rhetorical flourish" about the U.S. prevailing because he didn't want to compromise the leadership of then-Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev and others, Updegrove said.

"My life has been lived in the shadow of war - I almost lost my life in one. I hate war. I love peace," Bush said in 1988.

When Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1990, Bush started building an international military coalition that included other Arab states. And in his final weeks as president, he sent U.S. troops to Somalia to help pacify warring clans and protect overland shipments of food to starving Somalis, saying: "These are humanitarian concerns, and in my view it is proper that the president show this concern to the people over there."

___

PUBLIC SERVICE

Bush was a teenager when he began his public service career. The son of a U.S. senator, Bush was one of the Navy's youngest pilots during World War II. He flew 58 missions off the USS San Jacinto and was shot down over the Pacific. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross for bravery.

He was elected to Congress in 1966, and served two terms as a Texas congressman. He later served as ambassador to the United Nations and later to China. He was chairman of the Republican National Committee through the worst of the Watergate scandal, and he served as CIA director and vice president before being elected president.

Calling the 41st president's life "a testament that public service is a noble calling," Obama in 2011 awarded Bush the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor for contributions to society.

___

See AP's complete coverage of George H.W. Bush here: https://www.apnews.com/GeorgeHWBush

FILE - In this Jan. 1, 1993, file photo, U.S. President George H.W. Bush holds a camera at arm's length for a selfie with Marines at Baidoa's airport in Baidoa, Somalia. Bush sent U.S. troops to help starving Somalis during his presidency and later teamed up with his one-time political rival, Bill Clinton, to raise money for victims of natural disasters. It was all part of Bush's vision for what he called a "kinder, gentler nation." Bush was a humanitarian and made volunteerism a hallmark of his presidency from 1989 to 1993. (AP Photo/John Moore, File)

FILE - In this Dec. 7, 2005, file photo, former Presidents Bill Clinton, left, and George H.W. Bush, right, appear together during a news conference where they spoke about money they raised for Hurricane Karina victims as well as grants for higher education institutions along the Gulf Coast, at the University of New Orleans, in New Orleans. Bush teamed up with his one-time political rival, Clinton, to raise money for victims of natural disasters. It was all part of Bush's vision for what he called a "kinder, gentler nation." Bush was a humanitarian and made volunteerism a hallmark of his presidency from 1989 to 1993. (AP Photo/Chitose Suzuki, File)

FILE - In this July 24, 2013, file photo provided by the Office of George Bush, former President George H. W. Bush poses with Patrick (last name withheld at family's request), 2, in Kennebunkport, Maine. Bush joined members of his Secret Service detail in shaving his head to show solidarity for Patrick, who is the son of one of the agents. The child is undergoing treatment for leukemia and is losing his hair as a result. Bush was a humanitarian and made volunteerism a hallmark of his presidency from 1989 to 1993. (Barbara Bush/Office of George Bush via AP, File)

FILE - In this July 15, 2013, file photo, President Barack Obama, right, with former President George H. W. Bush, left, present the 5,000th Daily Point of Light Award to Floyd Hammer and Kathy Hamilton, center, from Union, Iowa, in the East Room of the White House in Washington. Obama welcomed Bush to the White House in a salute to public service and to the drive for volunteerism that the 41st president inspired with his "thousand points of light" initiative more than two decades ago. Bush was a humanitarian and made volunteerism a hallmark of his presidency from 1989 to 1993. His "thousand points of light" initiative honored the nation's volunteers. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)KATOWICE, Poland (AP) - As leaders attending the U.N.'s annual climate summit heard fresh warnings about the dire consequences of leaving global warming unchecked, a new issue emerged Monday as a pressing concern: how to persuade millions of workers their industry can't have a future if humanity is to have one.

Hosting the talks in the heart of its coal region of Silesia, Poland tried to set the tone for the two-week meeting by promoting the idea of a "just transition" for miners and other workers facing layoffs as countries adopt alternative energy sources.

"We are trying to save the world from annihilation, but we must do this in a way that those who live with us today in the world have the best possible living conditions," Polish President Andrzej Duda said. "Otherwise they will say, 'We don't want such policy.'"

The issue of a "just transition" isn't restricted to workers in energy industries who might lose their jobs. Many economists argue that ambitious curbs on greenhouse emissions require raising the cost of carbon fuels - one of the measures that triggered large-scale protests in France by motorists feeling the squeeze at the pump.

Scientists say the only way to keep average global temperatures from rising above 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 F) by the end of the century is to phase out the use of fossil fuels by 2050. That is the most ambitious goal set in the 2015 Paris agreement, which negotiators from nearly 200 countries have come to Katowice to finalize.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a dramatic appeal to leaders Monday to take the threat of global warming seriously, calling it "the most important issue we face."

Visitors to the U.N. climate conference watch a speech by Arnold Schwarzenegger, in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The COP24 UN Climate Change Conference is taking place in Katowice, Poland. Negotiators from around the world are meeting for talks on curbing climate change. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

"Even as we witness devastating climate impacts causing havoc across the world, we are still not doing enough, nor moving fast enough, to prevent irreversible and catastrophic climate disruption," Guterres told delegates from almost 200 countries on the second day of talks.

Famed British naturalist Sir David Attenborough echoed his warnings, telling the gathering that the "collapse of our civilizations and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizons" if no urgent action is taking against global warming.

The 92-year-old TV presenter blamed humans for the "disaster of global scale, our greatest threat in thousands of years."

Without naming specific countries, Guterres chided the nations most responsible for greenhouse gas emissions for failing to do enough to meet the goals set in Paris.

Citing a recent scientific report , the U.N. chief urged governments to aim for net zero emissions by 2050. Net zero emissions mean that any greenhouse gases emitted need to be soaked up by forest or new technologies that can remove carbon from the atmosphere.

Such cuts would require a radical overhaul of the global economy. But Guterres said governments should embrace the opportunities of shifting to a "green economy" rather than cling to fossil fuels such as coal, which are blamed for a significant share of man-made greenhouse gas emissions.

U.S. officials have kept a low profile at the talks so far. President Donald Trump has announced Washington's withdrawal from the Paris accord, saying it's a bad deal for Americans, and repeatedly questioned the science behind climate change.

By contrast, action film star and former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger drew crowds and applause at the U.N. conference Monday for insisting that many in the United States remain committed to the agreement.

"America is more than just Washington or one leader," he said, calling Trump "meshugge" - Yiddish for "crazy" - for deciding to withdraw from the Paris accord. Schwarzenegger said he wished he could travel back in time - like the cyborg he portrayed in "The Terminator" - to stop fossil fuels from being used.

The Netherlands, a country with a long history of pumping oil and gas from the ground, is also among the places most at risk from rising sea levels caused by global warming.

With millions of people in the Netherlands living in low-lying areas, "you have your evidence and your case in point to make, sure, that you prevent sea levels from rising even further" Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte told The Associated Press.

Asked about the recent protests in France, one of which turned into a riot in Paris on Saturday, Rutte said politicians must work to get all of society to back the measures needed to tackle climate change.

"That means talking, talking, talking," he said. "With all societal organizations, politicians, all citizens being involved if they want to."

More talk is doubtlessly necessary, including at the international level. Poland's President Duda told reporters that his country, which relies on coal for 80 percent of its energy, would work to reduce its reliance on coal but never entirely give up its "strategic fossil fuel."

Among those addressing conference participants this week is a 15-year-old Swedish activist, Greta Thunberg, who has inspired students around the world to campaign against global warming.

Thunberg criticized leaders, such as Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who failed to come to the climate talks.

"I think that in the future we will look back and we will either laugh at them or we will hate them," she told The Associated Press. "It's very sad, but if they don't do anything right now that is the truth."

___

Read more stories on climate issues by The Associated Press at https://www.apnews.com/Climate

Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger delivers a speech during the opening of COP24 UN Climate Change Conference 2018 in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres delivers a speech WLduring the opening of COP24 UN Climate Change Conference 2018 in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres addresses during the opening of COP24 UN Climate Change Conference 2018 in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

In this photo taken Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018, a bird flies past as smoke emits from the chimneys of Serbia's main coal-fired power station near Kostolac, Serbia. The COP 24 UN Climate Change Conference is taking place in Katowice, Poland. Negotiators from around the world are meeting for talks on curbing climate change. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

Leaders and negotiators from almost 200 nations from around the globe listen to speeches during the official opening of the key U.N. climate conference that is to agree on ways of fighting global warming in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Swiss Federal President Alain Berset, right, talks to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, during a bilateral meeting during the COP24 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (Peter Klaunzer/Keystone via AP)

FILE- In this July 26, 2011 photo, a melting iceberg floats along a fjord leading away from the edge of the Greenland ice sheet near Nuuk, Greenland. The COP 24 UN Climate Change Conference is taking place in Katowice, Poland. Negotiators from around the world are meeting for talks on curbing climate change. (AP Photo/Brennan Linsley, File)

In this Nov. 21, 2018 photo smoke billows from chimney stacks of the heating and power plant in Bedzin, near Katowice, Poland. The COP 24 UN Climate Change Conference is taking place in Katowice. Negotiators from around the world are meeting for talks on curbing climate change. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Poland's President Andrzej Duda addresses representatives of almost 200 nations during a ceremonial opening of the key U.N. climate conference that is to agree on ways of fighting global warming in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Leaders and negotiators from almost 200 nations from around the globe listen to speeches during the official opening of the key U.N. climate conference that is to agree on ways of fighting global warming in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Prime Minister of Fiji and COP 23 President Frank Bainimarama talks with the President of COP 24 Michal Kurtyka, right, as Polish President Andrzej Duda, left, looks on during the opening of COP24 UN Climate Change Conference 2018 in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

World Bank CEO Kristalina Georgieva speaks during the COP24 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (Peter Klaunzer/Keystone via AP)

Michal Kurtyka, Polish Deputy Minister of the Environment and President of the COP24, right, talks to Andrzej Duda, President of Poland, left, during the COP24 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (Peter Klaunzer/Keystone via AP)

Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger delivers a speech during the opening of COP24 UN Climate Change Conference 2018 in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Leaders and negotiators from almost 200 nations from around the globe talk during the official opening of the key U.N. climate conference COP 24 that is to agree on ways of fighting global warming in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Natural historian Sir David Attenborough, second right, listens to speeches during the opening of COP24 UN Climate Change Conference 2018 in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Trucks are lined up as hey roll down a highway in Frankfurt, Germany, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The COP24 UN Climate Change Conference is taking place in Katowice, Poland. Negotiators from around the world are meeting for talks on curbing climate change. (AP Photo/Michael Probst)

In this image taken with a slow shutter speed, vehicles move on a road in Belgrade, Serbia, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The COP24 UN Climate Change Conference is taking place in Katowice, Poland. Negotiators from around the world are meeting for talks on curbing climate change. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

A visitor to the U.N. climate conference takes a selfie at an exhibition about forests and global warming, in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. The COP24 UN Climate Change Conference is taking place in Katowice, Poland. Negotiators from around the world are meeting for talks on curbing climate change. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)PARIS (AP) - A grassroots protest movement in France has ballooned and radicalized, unleashing anger that devastated the heart of Paris in weekend riots and revealed a fracture in the country between the haves and have-nots.

Tough talk by unpopular President Emmanuel Macron, who has been roundly blamed for the chaos, isn't likely to mend the growing sense of social injustice.

Discontent about the rising cost of living among the "little people," as many protesters call themselves, had been growing, along with a sense of marginalization. The approach of Macron's fuel tax increases in January, meant to wean the French off fossil fuels, has caused things to snap.

The weekend violence in Paris, in which more than 130 people were injured and over 400 were arrested, was the worst in the country in decades, officials have said.

The protesters say they want to level a playing field that they believe is tipped in favor of the elite and well-off city dwellers.

The fuel tax "was the spark," said Thierry Paul Valette, a Paris protest coordinator, in an interview. "If it hadn't been (that), it would have been something else."

Demonstrators open the toll gates on motorway near Biarritz, southwestern France, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe is holding crisis talks with representatives of major political parties in the wake of violent anti-government protests that have rocked Paris. The "yellow vest" movement is bringing together people from across the political spectrum complaining about France's economic inequalities and waning spending power. (AP Photo/Bob Edme)

"People want fair fiscal justice. They want social justice," he added, as well as improved purchasing power.

Members of the nationwide movement call themselves the "yellow vests," after the fluorescent safety clothing that all French motorists are obliged to keep in their cars.

"It's clear the position of President Emmanuel Macron is untenable ... contempt for a France that suffers and contempt for a France that's not doing well," Valette said.

The Yellow Vest movement has no leaders but is trying to organize and choose legitimate representatives to negotiate with the government. An attempt to meet last week with Prime Minister Edouard Philippe failed. Reports that another rendezvous announced for Tuesday was canceled by the protesters could not be immediately confirmed.

The movement, which organized on social media in October, was initially made up of retirees, the self-employed, artisans and others having a hard time making ends meet, often from rural France and in their 30s and 40s, said Sorbonne sociologist Jean-Francois Amadieu, an expert in social movements.

As the government braces for a fourth weekend of protests, discontent spread Monday to ambulance workers and some high schools with students upset about scholastic reforms.

That's a danger sign, according to Amadieu, who believes the protests could have been nipped in the bud weeks ago.

He said the 40-year-old Macron, who is surrounded by a young team with little experience, misread the signs of the extent of discontent and failed to understand that refusing to budge on a policy isn't always the best route to take in France.

"These are people who think you govern a nation like a startup," Amadieu said.

Macron, whose popularity is plummeting, is also widely seen as arrogant with a style that ruffles sensitivities, such as telling an unemployed man he can find a job if he "crosses the street," or advising a retiree not to complain.

"Never has a president communicated like that," Amadieu said.

The protesters have positioned themselves at strategic roadways, filtering traffic to a slowdown in the protests that began Nov. 17. Three people have died since then, although none in Paris.

Valette blamed the past two weekends of violence on people "usurping the yellow vest."

On Saturday, shops were looted and cars torched in plush neighborhoods around the famed Champs-Elysees Avenue. The Arc de Triomphe, which cradles the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and was visited by world leaders last month to mark the centenary of the end of World War I, was besmirched with graffiti and vandalized inside. A 19th century statue was broken.

"The yellow vests will triumph," one scrawled slogan said.

Amadieu said the violence is seen by many as a necessary means for change.

"We all learned about the taking of the Bastille and the French Revolution. ... Change is always through a rapport of force," he said. "That is, unfortunately, very anchored in France."

Some graffiti on the Arc de Triomphe showed that the ultra-right and ultra-left had melded into the movement. But violence already was bubbling up from within.

Jason Herbert, a Yellow Vest representative who met briefly Friday with the prime minister, said he and others who bowed out had received threats from fellow demonstrators, and he said the movement was radicalizing.

"We have all received enormous pressure ... threats, be they verbal or physical," Herbert said. "Our lives are still at stake."

He described those making the threats as people who are "terribly hopeless, terribly miserable, (who) lost everything (because) everything was taken from them."

Paul Marra, a Yellow Vest in the southern Bouche-du-Rhone around Marseille, warned over the weekend that time is of the essence to end the crisis.

"The longer the executive office waits, the more complicated things will become," he told the broadcaster BFMTV. He said there would be an "Act 4, Act 5, Act 6," referring to the Saturday protests.

"Today things have gone too far," he added.

___

Jeffrey Schaeffer and Sam Petrequin in Paris contributed.

An ambulance worker holds a flare as he and his fellows block the Place de la Concorde in Paris, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. Ambulance workers took to the streets and gathered close to the National Assembly in downtown Paris to complain about changes to working conditions as French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe is holding crisis talks with representatives of major political parties in the wake of violent anti-government protests that have rocked Paris. (AP Photo/Michel Euler)

Ambulance workers hold flares outside the National Assembly in Paris, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. Ambulance workers took to the streets and gathered close to the National Assembly in downtown Paris to complain about changes to working conditions as French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe is holding crisis talks with representatives of major political parties in the wake of violent anti-government protests that have rocked Paris. (AP Photo/Michel Euler)

Ambulance workers block the bridge leading the National Assembly, background, in Paris, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. Ambulance workers took to the streets and gathered close to the National Assembly in downtown Paris to complain about changes to working conditions as French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe is holding crisis talks with representatives of major political parties in the wake of violent anti-government protests that have rocked Paris. (AP Photo/Michel Euler)

Ambulance workers block the bridge leading the National Assembly, background, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018 in Paris. Ambulance workers took to the streets and gathered close to the National Assembly in downtown Paris to complain about changes to working conditions as French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe is holding crisis talks with representatives of major political parties in the wake of violent anti-government protests that have rocked Paris. (AP Photo/Michel Euler)

Ambulance workers block the bridge leading the National Assembly, background, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018 in Paris. Ambulance workers took to the streets and gathered close to the National Assembly in downtown Paris to complain about changes to working conditions as French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe is holding crisis talks with representatives of major political parties in the wake of violent anti-government protests that have rocked Paris. On ambulance reads: Angry ambulance workers. (AP Photo/Michel Euler)MANILA, Philippines (AP) - An award-winning Philippine journalist who along with the online news service she heads has been sued for tax evasion has declared her innocence and was freed on bail Monday after turning herself in for arrest.

Maria Ressa, CEO of the Rappler website, said that taxes had been paid properly by her news service and the five tax charges were politically motivated. She was freed on 60,000 pesos ($1,150) bail on the one charge for which an arrest warrant has so far been issued.

Rappler has been critical of the government of President Rodrigo Duterte, who in turn has accused several independent media groups in the Philippines of biased reporting, including on his crackdown on illegal drugs that has left thousands of mostly urban poor dwellers dead and drawn condemnation by Western governments and U.N. bodies.

"We need to hold government to account, and part of the reason I'm here is precisely that," Ressa said outside a Manila court. "I'm not a criminal, but I've been fingerprinted like a criminal. We feel that we did not get due process."

Ressa, who has worked with CNN, was the winner of two prestigious journalism awards this year, a Press Freedom award from the New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists, and the International Center for Journalists' Knight International Journalism Award.

"I think the end goal of government is to try to make our team lose focus, affect morale, but in the end the mission of journalism, especially Rappler, has never been stronger," she said. "We know we are doing something right, we know that what we are doing is critically important right now."

Maria Ressa, CEO of Rappler, an online news service, who has been critical of the government of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, shows documents after posting bail at the Pasig Regional Trial Court in metropolitan Manila, Philippines, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. Ressa along with Rappler has been sued for tax evasion. She has declared her innocence and been freed on bail after reporting herself for arrest. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

Duterte had already banned a Rappler reporter from his news briefings after the government's corporate watchdog found that the organization violated a constitutional prohibition on foreign ownership when it received money from an international investment firm. Rappler, founded in 2012, rejected the ruling.

The brash-talking Duterte accused Rappler last year of being owned by Americans in violation of the Philippine constitution and said the news outfit was funded by the Central Intelligence Agency. Rappler denied the allegations.

"Arresting Maria will send a clear signal that the country's democracy is fast receding under a feckless administration that cannot abide criticism and free expression and will go to ridiculous lengths to muzzle all those is does not agree with," the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines said when news of the arrest warrant for Ressa was announced last week.

Maria Ressa, center, CEO of Rappler, an online news service, who has been critical of the government of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, uses her smartphone inside the Pasig Regional Trial Court in metropolitan Manila, Philippines, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. Ressa along with Rappler has been sued for tax evasion. She has declared her innocence and been freed on bail after reporting herself for arrest. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)KATOWICE, Poland (AP) - The Latest on the U.N. climate conference being held in Poland (all times local):

7:25 p.m.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte says politicians need to win over all of society for measures needed to tackle climate change.

Speaking Monday on the sidelines of the U.N. climate summit, Rutte said there's already a lot of understanding in the Netherlands about the urgency of curbing global warming.

Rutte told The Associated Press that with millions of Dutch living in low areas and the country's main airport being below sea level "you have your evidence and your case in point to make sure that you prevent sea levels from rising even further."

Asked about recent violent protests in France against fuel price hikes, Rutte said "you have to bring (this knowledge) along to the whole of society in a way that people understand."

FILE- In this July 26, 2011 photo, a melting iceberg floats along a fjord leading away from the edge of the Greenland ice sheet near Nuuk, Greenland. The COP 24 UN Climate Change Conference is taking place in Katowice, Poland. Negotiators from around the world are meeting for talks on curbing climate change. (AP Photo/Brennan Linsley, File)

He said "that means talking, talking, talking. With all societal organizations, politicians, all citizens being involved if they want to."

___

4:50 p.m.

A Swedish teenager who takes time out of school each week to highlight the danger of global warming says world leaders who are skipping a U.N. climate summit are "very irresponsible."

Fifteen-year-old Greta Thunberg traveled to Katowice, Poland, for the start of the two-week talks and delivered a speech on Monday to some of the decision-makers at the conference.

Speaking afterward to The Associated Press, Thunberg said the absence of leaders such as U.S. President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Angela Merkel "shows what they prioritize."

Thunberg, who protests outside the Swedish parliament each Friday, said of politicians not in attendance: "In the future we will look back, and we will either laugh at them or we will hate them."

Her activism has inspired other students from as far away as Australia.

___

3:00 p.m.

Actor and climate campaigner Arnold Schwarzenegger says the United States is "still in" the Paris accord to curb global warming despite the federal government's decision to walk away from the agreement.

The former California governor told leaders gathered for the start of U.N. climate talks in Poland on Monday that "America is more than just Washington or one leader."

Calling President Donald Trump "meshugge" - Yiddish for "crazy" - for deciding to withdraw from the Paris accord, Schwarzenegger insisted the 2015 agreement has widespread support at the local and state level in the U.S.

He told delegates that for next year's annual climate meeting, "Let's have those local leaders come here and be part of a big conference like this where they can talk to you directly. And if you do that, I promise you: I'll be back."

___

2:55 p.m.

Famed naturalist Sir David Attenborough says human civilization may collapse unless the world takes action to curb climate change.

The British TV presenter of nature documentaries told leaders gathered for a U.N. climate summit Monday that "right now, we are facing a man-made disaster of global scale, our greatest threat in thousands of years."

Attenborough urged the delegates meeting in Katowice, Poland, until Dec. 14 to make progress on efforts to implement the 2015 Paris accord fighting climate change.

The 92-year-old added that "if we don't take action, the collapse of our civilizations and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizon."

___

2:45 p.m.

Poland's President Andrzej Duda says the coal-reliant nation has no plans to totally remove this fossil fuel, which it has in abundance, from its energy mix.

Duda spoke at a news conference at the start of a U.N. climate conference aimed at curbing global warming.

The conference is being held in Katowice, in Poland's coal mining region of Silesia, the source of the fossil fuel that produces some 80 percent of the nation's energy. Duda said there's "no plan today to fully give up on coal" as Poland's supplies can run for another 200 years.

He said coal was Poland's "strategic fossil fuel" guaranteeing its energy security and sovereignty and "it would be hard not to use it."

___

2:20 p.m.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres says the world's political will to fight climate change has faded since the 2015 conference in Paris which set ambitious goals for reducing carbon gas emissions.

Guterres told a news conference in Katowice, Poland, on Monday that realities about global climate are "worse than expected, but the political will is relatively faded after Paris."

His words at the start of a U.N. climate conference were amplified by the absence of many prominent world leaders.

The Paris conference set the goal of keeping global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) by 2100. But Guterres said climate change is "running faster than expected" with "terrible consequences for the people."

He called for a "huge increase in ambition" at the Katowice conference, which should agree on ways of implementing the Paris accord.

___

12:10 p.m.

Poland's President Andrzej Duda has defended the country's reliance on its coal, arguing that it does not conflict with the need to combat climate change.

Speaking at the opening of a U.N. climate conference, Duda said that Poland has cut its carbon gas emission by 30 percent in the past three decades, while maintaining substantial economic growth.

Poland still relies in 80 percent on coal for its energy, but plans to cut it down to some 50 percent by 2030, partly through the implementation of modern, clean technologies.

"The use of one's own natural resources, in Poland's case on coal, and basing energy security on them is not in conflict with the climate protection and with progress in climate protection," Duda said.

___

11 a.m.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is appealing to world leaders to take seriously the threat of global warming and take bold action to avert a catastrophic rise in temperatures.

Guterres called climate change "the single most important issue we face," speaking Monday at the ceremonial opening of a U.N. summit in Katowice, Poland.

The U.N. chief chided countries, particularly those most responsible for greenhouse gas emissions, for failing to do enough to meet the goals of the Paris climate accord.

The 2015 agreement set a goal of keeping global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit), ideally 1.5 C (2.7 F) by the end of the century.

Guterres urged countries to aim for net zero emissions by 2050 and radically reduce the use of fossil fuels such as coal.

___

10:45 a.m.

No global climate summit would be complete without a few celebrities.

Monday's gathering of ministers and national leaders for the start of the U.N. talks on tackling global warming is getting a dose of glitz.

Actor and former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who has long campaigned against climate change, is expected to draw crowds, while there are reports that other Hollywood celebrities will make an appearance as well.

Other VIPs attending the meeting in Katowice, Poland, include adventurer Bertrand Piccard, who co-piloted the first solar round-the-world flight, and Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg, whose climate campaigning has received support from students around the globe.

___

8:45 a.m.

Leaders from around the world are arriving for the ceremonial opening of the climate conference in southern Poland that will discuss ways of curbing climate change.

The two-week conference in Katowice is expected to work out how governments can report on their efforts to reduce green gas emission and keep global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit), as agreed in 2015 in Paris.

Host Poland will propose a declaration Monday for a "just transition" away from coal mining, the supplier of its main source of energy, to take into consideration the situation of people employed in the sector.

Critics say the declaration should more broadly cover all aspects of transition from fossil fuels to green energy.

Leaders and negotiators from almost 200 nations from around the globe listen to speeches during the official opening of the key U.N. climate conference that is to agree on ways of fighting global warming in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger delivers a speech during the opening of COP24 UN Climate Change Conference 2018 in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

President of the UN General Assembly Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garces speaks during the opening of COP24 UN Climate Change Conference 2018 in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Leaders and negotiators from almost 200 nations from around the globe talk during the official opening of the key U.N. climate conference COP 24 that is to agree on ways of fighting global warming in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

In this Nov. 20, 2018 photo workers decorate the venue of the global climate summit that will be held at the site of the closed 'Katowice' coal mine in the city of Katowice, Poland. The COP 24 UN Climate Change Conference is taking place in Katowice, Poland. Negotiators from around the world are meeting for talks on curbing climate change. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres addresses during the opening of COP24 UN Climate Change Conference 2018 in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

A demonstrator holds a placard which reads 'climate first, politics second' during a 'Claim the Climate' march in Brussels, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018. The climate change conference, COP24, will take place in Poland from Dec. 2-14. (AP Photo/Geert Vanden Wijngaert)

In this Nov. 21, 2018 photo smoke billows from chimney stacks of the heating and power plant in Bedzin, near Katowice, Poland. The COP 24 UN Climate Change Conference is taking place in Katowice. Negotiators from around the world are meeting for talks on curbing climate change. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres delivers a speech during the opening of COP24 UN Climate Change Conference 2018 in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Poland's President Andrzej Duda addresses representatives of almost 200 nations during a ceremonial opening of the key U.N. climate conference that is to agree on ways of fighting global warming in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018.(AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

Prime Minister of Fiji and COP 23 President Frank Bainimarama talks with the President of COP 24 Michal Kurtyka, right, as Polish President Andrzej Duda, left, looks on during the opening of COP24 UN Climate Change Conference 2018 in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

World Bank CEO Kristalina Georgieva speaks during the COP24 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (Peter Klaunzer/Keystone via AP)

Natural historian Sir David Attenborough, second right, listens to speeches during the opening of COP24 UN Climate Change Conference 2018 in Katowice, Poland, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)KIEV, Ukraine (AP) - Ukraine's president on Monday announced a partial call-up of reservists for training amid tensions with Russia, saying the country needs to beef up its defenses to counter the threat of a Russian invasion.

The Kremlin dismissed the Ukrainian leader's statement as an "absurd" attempt to inflame tensions.

Relations between the two neighbors have been strained further following a Nov. 25 incident in which the Russian coast guard fired upon and seized three Ukrainian naval vessels and their crews off the Crimean Peninsula that Russia annexed from Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko responded by introducing martial law for 30 days in much of Ukraine. For the duration of martial law, Ukrainian authorities barred entry to all Russian males aged 16 to 60 in a move the Ukrainian leader said was needed to prevent Russia from further destabilizing the country.

Poroshenko said Monday that some reservists will be summoned for training as part of martial law. He also said that some military units will be redeployed to strengthen the nation's defenses.

"Ukraine is taking its own steps in response to the threat of a large-scale Russian invasion," the Ukrainian leader said.

A Ukrainian border guard stands ready at the border from Russia to Ukrainian side of the Ukraine - Russia border in Milove town, eastern Ukraine, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018. On a map, Chertkovo and Milove are one village, crossed by Friendship of Peoples Street which got its name under the Soviet Union and on the streets in both places, people speak a mix of Russian and Ukrainian without turning choice of language into a political statement. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)

Over the weekend, Poroshenko said that Russia has deployed a large number of troops along its border with Ukraine and alleged that the Kremlin intends to push inland into Ukraine. Ukraine also accused Russia of blockading its ports on the Sea of Azov.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, dismissed Poroshenko's claims as an "absurd attempt to foment tensions."

"The accusations against Russia have no basis whatsoever," he said.

Peskov also rejected Kiev's claim that Russia was blocking traffic to and from Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov, saying that navigation has continued normally except for occasional breaks because of bad weather.

The separatist conflict in eastern regions forming Ukraine's industrial heartland has taken a toll on the national economy, reducing the cargo flow through the Ukrainian ports of Mariupol and Berdyansk on the Sea of Azov. The naval incident further stoked tensions.

Vitaliy Sinhur, a dock worker in Berdyansk, said the movement of ships has significantly ebbed.

Amid the tensions, the Russian military said its forces in Crimea were conducting drills involving Bal and Bastion long-range anti-ship missile systems.

Over the weekend, Poroshenko urged Germany and other Western allies to boost their naval presence in the Black Sea to help deter Russia from further aggression.

Ukraine's deputy defense minister, Anatoliy Petrenko, said the country is talking to its Western partners to respond to Russia's "escalatory actions."

The U.S. and its NATO allies have strongly urged Russia to free the Ukrainian vessels and the crews.

"There is no justification for this use of force," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters Monday. "Russia must release the Ukrainian sailors and ships. It must also allow freedom of navigation and unhindered access to Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov."

NATO foreign ministers are set to discuss the incident later this week.

Asked what action NATO could take, Stoltenberg said: "We provide strong political but also strong practical support to Ukraine."

He added that NATO allies have helped modernize Ukraine's armed forces, have boosted their presence in the Black Sea over the last year, with more ships deployed in the region and more air policing.

In the Nov. 25 incident, three Ukrainian naval vessels were heading from the Black Sea into the Sea of Azov when they were blocked by the Russian coast guard near the Kerch Strait between Russia's mainland and Crimea. After many tense hours of maneuvering, the Russians opened fire and seized the Ukrainian vessels and 24 crew members.

The Ukrainian seamen have been put in custody for two months pending Russia's investigation into the clash.

Ukraine and Russia have traded blame for the naval incident that further escalated the tug-of-war that began in 2014 when Russian annexed Crimea and backed separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine.

Ukraine says that its ships were operating in line with a 2003 treaty with Russia envisaging free navigation for vessels of both countries in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait.

Russia is adamant that the Ukrainian ships had entered its waters without permission.

Later this week, the Ukrainian parliament is expected to mull a presidential bill blocking the extension of a friendship treaty after it expires next April, a long-anticipated symbolic move.

Poroshenko has said he tried to arrange a phone call with Putin to discuss the standoff but faced the Kremlin's refusal.

Peskov said Monday that "no such conversation is planned."

----

Vladimir Isachenkov reported from Moscow. Lorne Cook in Brussels contributed to this report.

Ukrainians cross the border from Russia to Ukrainian side of the Ukraine - Russia border in Milove town, eastern Ukraine, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018. On a map, Chertkovo and Milove are one village, crossed by Friendship of Peoples Street which got its name under the Soviet Union and on the streets in both places, people speak a mix of Russian and Ukrainian without turning choice of language into a political statement. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)

A Ukrainian border guard checks documents of a woman crossing the border the Ukraine - Russia border in Milove town, eastern Ukraine, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018. On a map, Chertkovo and Milove are one village, crossed by Friendship of Peoples Street which got its name under the Soviet Union and on the streets in both places, people speak a mix of Russian and Ukrainian without turning choice of language into a political statement. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)

In this photo taken on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018, A Russian border guard stands behind barbed wire on the Russian side of the Russia-Ukraine border as people buy and sell at Saturday's market in Milove, eastern Ukraine, one village, which is crossed by the main road called Friendship of People's Street and barbed wire. People on the streets easily mix both Russia and Ukrainian languages without making a political statement of it, but earlier this year, Russia built a barbed wire fence on the Friendship of People's street, marking the border with Ukraine in a metaphorical statement about the long-simmering conflict between the countries. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)

Ukrainian servicemen are seen aboard a naval ship in the Azov Sea port in Mariupol, Ukraine, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018. Ukraine's leader called on Germany and its allies to boost their naval presence in the Black Sea to deter Russia from further aggression in the region and said Russia was blockading Ukrainian ports on the nearby Sea of Azov. (Gleb Garanich/Pool Photo via AP)China is the worlds biggest dam builder, with the country boasting more dams than the rest of the world combined. China is also the worlds largest exporter of dams.

In Nepal, where China-backed communists are in power, Beijing has just succeeded in reviving a lucrative dam project, which was scrapped by the previous Nepalese government as China had won the contract without competitive bidding. The reversal of the previous governments cancellation of the $2.5-billion Budhi-Gandaki Dam project has come after Nepals communist rulers implemented a transit transport agreement with China, to cut dependence on India.

China is building dams in two other countries neighbouring India  Myanmar and Pakistan  including in areas torn by ethnic separatism (northern Myanmar), and in a United Nations-designated disputed territory like the Pakistan-occupied portion of Jammu and Kashmir.

China-Nepal bhai bhai: Beijing has now succeeded in reviving the lucrative Budhi-Gandaki Dam project. (Photo: Reuters/file)

Yet, it loudly protests when the Dalai Lama merely visits Arunachal Pradesh, claiming it to be a disputed territory, although only Beijing disputes Indias control over Arunachal. The UN does not recognise Arunachal as disputed.

China has also held out threats against India jointly exploring with Vietnam for offshore hydrocarbons in Vietnams own exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Yet it has no compunctions about unveiling projects  under the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor  in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Domestically, most of Chinas mega-water projects are now concentrated on the Tibetan Plateau, a sprawling region it forcibly absorbed in the early 1950s.

By building an array of new dams on rivers flowing to other countries, Beijing seems set to roil inter-riparian relations in Asia, and make it more difficult to establish rules-based water cooperation and sharing.

China has emerged as the key impediment to building institutionalised collaboration in Asia on shared water resources. In contrast to the bilateral water treaties between many of its neighbours, China rejects the concept of a water-sharing arrangement or joint, rules-based management of common resources.

The long-term implications of Chinas dam programme for India are particularly stark, because several major rivers flow south from the Tibetan plateau.

India has water-sharing treaties with both the countries located downstream from it: the Indus pact with Pakistan guarantees the worlds largest cross-border flows under any treaty regime, while the Ganges accord has set a new principle in international water law by granting Bangladesh an equal share of downriver flows in the dry season.

China, by contrast, does not have a single water-sharing treaty with any neighbour.

China is the worlds biggest dam builder, with the country boasting more dams than the rest of the world combined. (Photo: YouTube)

Yet most of Asias international rivers originate in territories that China annexed after its 1949 communist revolution. The Tibetan Plateau is the worlds largest freshwater repository and the source of Asias greatest rivers, including those that are the lifeblood of mainland China, South Asia and Southeast Asia. Other Chinese-held homelands of ethnic minorities contain the headwaters of rivers such as the Irtysh, Illy and Amur, which flow to Russia and Central Asia.

Chinas dam programme on international rivers is following a well-established pattern: build modest-size dams on a rivers uppermost difficult reaches, construct larger dams in the upper-middle sections as the river picks up greater water volume and momentum, before embarking on mega-dams in the border area facing the neighbouring country. The cascade of mega-dams on the Mekong River, for example, is located in the area just before the river enters continental Southeast Asia.

Many of Chinas new dam projects at home are concentrated in the seismically active southwest, covering parts of the Tibetan Plateau. The restart of dam building on the Salween River after a decade-long moratorium is in keeping with a precedent set on other river systems: Beijing temporarily suspends a controversial plan after major protests flare so as to buy time  before resurrecting the same plan.

The Salween  Asias last largely free-flowing river  runs through deep, spectacular gorges, glaciated peaks and karst on its way into Myanmar and along the Thai border before emptying into the Andaman Sea. Its upstream basin is inhabited by 16 ethnic groups, including some, like the Derung tribe, with tiny populations numbering in the thousands. As one of the worlds most biologically diverse regions, the upper basin boasts more than 5,000 plant species and nearly half of Chinas animal species.

Chinas action in lifting the moratorium and starting work on dams on the Tibet-originating Salween threatens the regions biodiversity, and could uproot endangered aboriginal tribes. There is also the risk that the weight of huge, new dam reservoirs could accentuate seismic instability in a region prone to recurrent earthquakes.

India is heavily dependent on China for its fresh water reserves as it alone receives nearly half the river waters that leave Chinese-held territory. (Photo: Reuters/file)

No country is more vulnerable to Chinas re-engineering of trans-boundary flows than India. The reason is that India alone receives nearly half of the river waters that leave Chinese-held territory. According to United Nations figures, a total of 718 billion cubic meters of surface water flows out of Chinese territory yearly, of which 347 billion cubic meters (or 48.3 per cent of the total) runs directly into India.

China already has a dozen dams in the Brahmaputra River basin, and one each on the Indus and the Sutlej rivers. On the Brahmaputra, it is currently constructing several more. Its dam-building is likely to gradually move to Tibets water-rich border with Arunachal as the Brahmaputra makes a U-turn to enter India.

If Asia is to prevent water wars, it must build institutionalised cooperation in trans-boundary basins in a way that co-opts all riparian neighbours. If a dominant riparian country refuses to join, such institutional arrangements  as in the Mekong basin  will be ineffective.

The arrangements must be centred on transparency, unhindered information flow, equitable sharing, dispute settlement, pollution control, and a commitment to refrain from any projects that could materially diminish trans-boundary flows.

China, undeterred by the environmental degradation it is wreaking, has made the control and manipulation of river flows a pivot of its power. It is past time for New Delhi to speak up on Chinas dam-building threat to Indias security and well-being.

Also read: George HW Bush: US President who oversaw the quiet end of the Cold WarEven as Pakistan has emerged with a sense of confidence after convincing the international community of the inevitability of accomodating the Taliban, a combination of domestic and external factors continue to embattle the Pakistani state. Issues like the Taliban, the growing presence of ISIS, and even the recent protests by the Pashtun community across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and erstwhile FATA, are all part of the Af-Pak quagmire, which increasingly intensified after the 9/11 episode.

Earlier this year, the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) emerged as a response by the younger generation of Pashtuns to the ill-treatment meted out to their community.

While the Zarb-e-Azb military operation can be said to have played a trigger role, their sufferings date back to 2002, when the Taliban and Al Qaeda, under attack from the US post-9/11, started crossing from Afghanistan into the Pakistani Pashtun belt.

More than blaming the Pakistan Army for its atrocities, the PTM has questioned the army's stance on Al Qaeda and the Taliban. The army created the binary of 'good' and 'bad Taliban', in order to use selective criteria to go after these groups.

Contrary to what many Indian strategists have described, the PTM is a civil rights (not a separatist) movement with a strong moral element to it because it questioned the Pakistan Army's dealings with the 'good Taliban.'

Common Pashtun civilians got caught in the midst of the Pakistan Army's politics with the 'good' and 'bad Taliban' - and faced the brunt.

For instance, the Pakistan army's interactions with Nek Muhammad Wazir, Baitullah Mehsud and Sufi Mohammad are well-known. Even after securing initial peace deals with them, the army came under heavy attack from them.

The younger generation of Pashtuns picked up these issues because of the inability of the traditional Pashtun parties like ANP's (of Frontier Gandhi Bacha Khan) senior leadership to articulate the grievances of the Pashtuns.

The charge was taken up by Manzoor Pashteen, who articulated the sufferings of the Pashtuns and collected the names of all the missing persons (i.e., cases of forced disappearances.) He mobilised the people for the cause of human rights and when the Pakistani media completely ignored this movement, he used social media to highlight it.

With the PTM factor dominating the political discourse during the first half of 2018, the PML-N faced challenges on multiple fronts, not only on issues of corruption, but also the accusation of compromising on issues of core national interest, be it the economy, internal security, or even foreign policy.

As Nawaz was ousted, and jailed along with his daughter, Imran Khan's mesmerising speeches and PTI's excellent election campaign strategies convinced ordinary Pakistanis that the road to emancipation was only an election away.

As Imran Khan got elected Prime Minister, he promised to revolutionise governance (if not fix all the problems of Pakistan) within 100 days of taking charge.

However, challenges remain on all the fronts he blamed Nawaz Sharif of faltering on.

From the recent protests by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik party and THE mysterious kidnapping and murder of police officer Tahir Dawar to mounting challenges to the Pakistani economy, the PTI seems to have come to terms with its limitations as well as the "exogenous" elements that govern Pakistan.

The funding to the Haqqania madrassa - whose graduates went on to constitute the Taliban leadership - the PTI-led Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government's monetary support is a prominent example.

It is also worth noting that the dreaded Haqqani Network, known for planning sophisticated suicide bombings draws its name from its alma mater - the Haqqania madrassa.

It is in this context that Reham Khan discusses the political discontent in Pakistan that has emerged out of the unrealistically high hopes in some quarters due to the promises made by the PTI government.

Even though "Tabdeeli" and "Naya Pakistan" have become rallying points for the PTI, we saw same feudal dynasties and elites coming to power in the garb of what Khan termed as "electables".

The difference between the PTI and PML-N is that Nawaz was a well-rehearsed player as the PML-N had been in power thrice. Nawaz's focus on the economic situation and attempts to engage with India did pave the way for Pakistan emerging as a stable player in the Asian region.

There was considerable leeway to radical elements within Pakistani society, given the way the blasphemy issue and the ensuing protests by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik have been handled by the PTI. So much so that when interviewed on the state's lax response on Khadim Rizvi, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter-faith Harmony Noorul Haq Qadri told journalist Saleem Safi that it was best that the state did not interfere in matters which the judiciary was already looking into.

On the Pashtun issue, Reham Khan says there was some hope, though most weren't optimistic from the new dispensation, but there has been a realisation that there is not much the civilians can do as long as security issues remain under the military's control. Even in the advent of electoral malpractices, vigilant communities in Waziristan ensured the PTM-supported activists defeated the traditional parties, which points towards the simmering discontent among the Pashtun community. There is a silver lining in this struggle as the people in the tribal belt have finally began demanding their rights.

Regarding the Taliban factor, there was a looming fear of the Taliban being accommodated and regional powers have finally ensured space for the Taliban.

The Americans are definitely on board with dealing with the Taliban. Imran too made his pro-Taliban leanings quite apparent.

On the international fora, the dynamic seems to be complicated, even though the Pakistani establishment feels confident of getting the Taliban its share in running Kabul's affairs.

In reality, all the players involved have their own vested interests.

However, this cannot be termed as only Pakistan's victory as there is a quest towards an amicable agreement. The larger issue points towards the vested interests which look at Pakistan as a ripe field for proxy wars.

************************************

1) How do you compare the performance of the present government till now with respect to previous governments?

2) What are your views on the Pakistan establishment and official narrative on SP Dawar's killing?

3) The Afghan government has been criticised a lot in Pakistan over the handling of SP Dawar's killing? What are your views on it?

4) To what extent has the Pakistan government acted on its assurances made to the PTM leaders regarding their demands over treatment of Pashtuns in FATA?

5) The way the talks with the Taliban have fared.. There seems to be a consensus between the Pakistan, US and Russian intelligence agencies that the Taliban will be accommodated. Despite the American criticism, this could be a victory for the Pakistan military establishment. What are your views on it?

6) What do you think were the factors behind the removal of Afrasiab Khattak and Bushra Gohar from ANP?

7) Do you think Pakistan and India will have talks anytime soon?

Also read: Why CPEC could be the end of China-Pakistan relationshipThe world leaders have come together, yet again, like every year, for the annual UN climate change conference (COP24). This time, the conference is being held in Katowice, ironically, the important coal mining town in Poland.

The talks have opened with the goal of finalising the implementation guidelines for the Paris Climate Change Agreement.

What is COP 24 all about?

To understand COP 24, we need to rewind to COP 21  the Paris Agreement of 2015.

At the UN Climate Conference in Paris, known as COP21, in 2015, 196 countries joined together in the Paris Agreement  a universal pact that sets the world on a course to a zero-carbon, resilient, prosperous and fair future.

While the Agreement is not enough by itself to solve the problem, it places us clearly on the path to a global solution. The Paris Agreement requests each country to outline and communicate their post-2020 climate actions  known as their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). According to Article 4, Paragraph 2 of the Agreement, each Party is required to prepare, communicate and maintain successive NDCs that it intends to achieve.

Parties were required to pursue domestic mitigation measures, with the aim of achieving the objectives of such contributions. In Paris, all Parties agreed to either communicate their current NDCs or submit new or updated NDCs by 2020, and do so every five years thereafter.

It was at COP21 that the world leaders committed to making sure global warming stayed "well below" 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. They also agreed to pursue efforts to limit the temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Discussions in Katowice are especially crucial because of the US  the worlds second most polluting nation after China  pulling out of the Paris Agreement, thanks to the biggest climate change denier  Donald Trump.

This means that the remaining stakeholders will have to strive to meet the climate goals by themselves.

Where exactly are we headed? With climate change talks underway in Katowice, Poland, how much will parties even adhere to the 2015 Paris Agreement? (Photo: Reuters)

Agenda:

The Paris Agreement will loom large over Katowice COP because 2018 marks the deadline year agreed by signatories of the Agreement to adopt a "work program for the implementation" of the commitments they made in 2015. Other commitments made in Paris include increasing financing for climate action and the development of "national climate plans" by 2020. "The upcoming climate talks are the most important round of negotiations since the Paris Agreement was reached three years ago," Lou Leonard, the World Wildlife Fund's senior vice president for climate change and energy, told CNBC.

COP24 takes place in the wake of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Changes (IPCC) Special Report on 1.5C degrees, which delivered an unequivocal message that the countries will need dramatic changes across multiple sectors in the coming decade to limit global temperature rise to the thresholds laid out in the Paris Agreement.

At COP24, countries have to demonstrate their commitment to achieving the vision of the Paris Agreement by delivering three things:

1) the detailed guidelines for how the Agreement will be implemented, referred to as the Paris Rulebook

2) a clear signal that nations will strengthen their climate commitments by 2020

3) confidence that enough finance will be available to support a zero-carbon and climate-resilient transition.

Talanoa Dialogue:

COP24 will also conclude the year-long Fiji-led Talanoa Dialogue  the first-ever international conversation of its kind to assess progress towards the goals of the Paris Agreement  including the goal of limiting global temperature increases. One of the dialogue's aims is to find practical and local solutions for how countries can increase their ambition in the next round of NDCs.

The stakes in moving the Paris Agreement forward have never been higher.

Indias promise in Paris:

India ratified the Paris Agreement a year after the submission of its Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC), on 2 October 2016. Since India did not submit an NDC prior to ratification, the INDC became its first NDC.

It includes the following main elements:

1) To reduce the emissions intensity of GDP by 33 per cent-35 per cent by 2030 below 2005 levels (that is, holding 2005 levels as a benchmark) 2) To increase the share of non-fossil-based energy resources to 40 per cent of installed electric power capacity by 2030, with the help of transfer of technology and low-cost international finance including from Green Climate Fund (GCF) 3) To create an additional (cumulative) carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 gigatonnes of Carbon dioxide equivalent (GtCO2e) through additional forest and tree cover by 2030

India does not specify the coverage and metrics of the emissions intensity target in its NDC. Achieving its 40 per cent non-fossil capacity target would result in an emissions level of 4.8 GtCO2e by 2030. The emissions reduction implied by the NDC non-fossil capacity target are based on developments reflected in the Climate Action Trackers (CAT) current policy pathway.

Where do we stand now

Under current policy projections, India's greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) are projected to reach a level of 3.2 to 3.3 GtCO2e in 2020 and 4.5 to 4.6 GtCO2e in 2030  this is a 53 to 57 per cent increase in emissions from 2010 levels by 2020 and a more than doubling of 2010 levels by 2030.

While this growth is in line with both the 2020 and 2030 intensity pledges, the achievement of Indias targets depends on actual economic growth levels. Population growth is one of the main drivers of Indias projected greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions. By 2028, India is projected to overtake China as the largest country in the world in terms of population.

Forestry:

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) developed a new draft National Forest Policy 2018, calling for a minimum of one-third of Indias total geographical area to be under forest or tree cover.

At 21.54 per cent currently, we are not very close to touching the NDC.

Although not stated in the NDC, one could safely assume that the target to create an additional carbon sink of 2.53 GtCO2e through additional forest and tree cover by 2030 is cumulative. However, with up to 25,000 hectares of forests  250 sq km (more than twice Chandigarhs area) being handed over by the government every year for non-forestry activities, including defence projects, dams, mining, power plants, industries and roads, the second NDC is a question mark. This diversion of forest resources to industry was recently confirmed by the government to Parliament.

Transport:

In 2017, Power Minister Piyush Goyal announced a target of selling only electric vehicles by 2030, which would translate into Indian EV sales of over 10 million per year by 2030. This target would have been consistent with estimates that to reach full decarbonisation in the road transport sector globally by mid-century, it is necessary that the last fossil fuel car is sold before 2035.

However, there are conflicting signals on the actual ambition and likelihood of India adopting such an ambitious target.

For instance, in response to the Prime Ministers ambitious announcement, the state-owned Energy Efficiency Services (EESL) announced its plans to replace 5,00,000 government cars with electric cars  but reports claim that government employees are refusing to use electric vehicles procured through EESL, citing concerns over mileage and performance.

It doesn't look like they're going anywhere in a hurry (Photo: Reuters)

Energy supply:

The power sector accounted for 34 per cent of Indias total emissions in 2015. Given the fuel mix is dominated by coal-fired generation which was 75 per cent in 2015, the emissions intensity of electricity supply in India is high.

According to the International Energy Agencys (IEA) Energy Access 2017 report, 18 per cent of the population still had no access to electricity in 2017, meaning reaching 100 per cent electricity access in 2019 is likely to be out of the question. However, universal access should be achieved before 2030, according to the IEA. It is a scary thought to think of emissions when the entire population is brought under the grid at current levels of fossil fuel usage.

However, speaking at International Solar Alliances (ISA) first assembly meeting in October 2018, Prime Minister Modi claimed the government is targeting 40 per cent of electricity generation from non-fossil fuel-based resources by 2030.

One can only hope.

What lies ahead?

If the government manages to stick to the commitments it has made in the international arena, we have some hope of achieving the NDCs by 2030.

However, it requires policy changes at a macro level.

Though the leadership mantle has been forced onto India, the country has a chance in the global arena to show its commitment to climate change action, as it had claimed in 2015. However, if we keep the development agenda in the fore, we need to question who are we even developing for  the current levels of emissions are predicting an apocalypse sooner than one had thought.

Also read: I don't believe you: Donald Trump, world's biggest climate change denierTWO police officers of the Royal TCI Police Force have been taken off of active duty following allegations of an illegal nature being made against them.





Information reaching the Weekly News is that the couple, both of whom live and work in Grand Turk, are being accused of harbouring an illegal immigrant.





Following the allegations they were both placed on administrative leave as of Wednesday, November 21, and an investigation was launched.





In a press statement this week, Acting Police Commissioner Trevor Botting stated: "We take allegations against police officers very seriously and it is right that the officers are removed from operational duties whilst an investigation is carried out.





He added that the decision to place the officers on administrative leave should in no way suggest any presumed wrongdoing on the officers part.





Investigations into the allegations are ongoing.



The famous Pakistani progressive poet and human rights activist Fahmida Riaz, who died recently, wrote a poem titled 'Tum bilkul hum jaise nikle' (You too turned out to be just like us).

Fahmida Riaz, one of Pakistan's best known voices. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

Fahmida earlier had a high opinion of Indian secularism - but her dreams crashed when she saw what was going on in India after the rise of the BJP in 1996, when it emerged as the largest party in the Lok Sabha, and particularly after May 2014, when it gained an absolute majority. This was followed by an era of lynching of Muslims by cow vigilantes, ghar wapasi, revival of Ram Mandir agitation, etc. So, in this poem, she compares the forces of Hindutva with the Islamic fundamentalism of Gen Zia-ul-Haq, and says India is no different from Pakistan.

So distant. Yet, so close (Photo: PTI)

And she is right.

Although we have a Constitution whose Preamble declares India to be a secular state (unlike the Pakistani Constitution which proclaims Pakistan an Islamic Republic), and although Article 25 declares freedom of religion as a guaranteed right, this is only on paper.

The ground reality is very different.

The truth is that India, like Pakistan, is a highly communal country. In India, most Hindus are communal - and so are most Muslims. This, I can say from my own personal experience. When I am with my Hindu friends and relatives, and they are sure no Muslim is present, they often spout venom on Muslims. When a Muslim is lynched, most Hindus are indifferent, and many inwardly happy. Their view is, one terrorist and fanatic less!

The truth is that secularism is a feature of industrial society, not of feudal society. India is still semi-feudal, as is evident from the rampant casteism and communalism prevalent even today in Indian society. So, secularism in the Indian Constitution is only a fig leaf.

Secularism is the separation of Church and State. Secularism does not mean one cannot practise his/her religion. It means that religion is a private affair, unconnected with the state, which will have no religion.

In feudal society, human groupings are small and scattered over rural areas. Most people live in villages, not in cities. In such a society, religion has a powerful hold on men's minds. People of other religions or heretics are often regarded devilish creatures and enemies. For instance, in the Middle Ages in Europe, the Christian majority often believed that Jews drank the blood of Christian children in their rituals, and this awful belief often made them kill Jews.

In contrast, in industrial societies, human groupings are large, and are concentrated in urban areas, in factories, offices and educational institutions. There is much more interaction between humans, and when workers and employees are in close proximity to each other and interact, they realise that people of other religions are not devils or their enemies, as was presumed earlier, and in fact they all have a common interest in fighting unitedly for higher wages and better conditions of living. Also, in industrial society, the advance of science makes the hold of religion on people's minds weaker.

Spot the Hindu or Muslim? they are all commuters (Photo: PTI)

Before industrial societies were created in Europe, there were feudal societies, and in this period, there were often religious massacres and religious persecution, e.g. the St Bartholomew Day massacre by Catholics of Protestants (known as Huguenots) in France in 1572 or the burning at the stake of heretics in the Spanish Inquisition and by 'Bloody Mary' Queen of England, and the Jewish pogroms.

It is only after industrial society was created that these stopped.

So, it is in vain to expect secularism in India simply by engrafting it into our Constitution, even though an industrial society has not been created.

Some think that our state institutions will uphold secularism - they forget that an institution is really the human personnel manning that institution. So, unless the human personnel have a secular mindset, it is futile to expect them to uphold secularism.

For instance, I can speak from my own personal experience as a former judge of the Supreme Court. In private conversations, most of my colleagues (who were mostly Hindus) were solid supporters of Narendra Modi (he was a Chief Minister then, not the Prime Minister), though of course they would not say so publicly or in Court. In the police force, very few Muslims are recruited. For instance, while about 18 or 19% of the UP population is Muslim, an RTI query revealed that only 2% sub inspectors, 3% head constables and 4% constables in the UP Police were Muslims.

Since most Hindus are communal, and since the police personnel are overwhelmingly Hindu, it follows that most of the police force is communal.

Several encounters are alleged to have been deeply unfair minority targetting. Batla house was one such episode.(Photo: Aajtak screengrab)

That is why Muslims are almost invariably at the receiving end in many incidents, e.g. in the Batla House 'encounter', Hashimpura incident (which was a massacre of innocent Muslims), Bhopal fake 'encounter' of SIMI members, etc. Who can fight the state?

So, Fahmida Riaz was right.

The much flaunted Indian secularism is a hoax.

Pakistaniyon, hum bhi bilkul tum jaise nikle.

Also Read: Indias lynching mobocracy: Are we a nation prone to violence?Anglo-Dutch FMCG giant Unilever Monday said it will acquire health food portfolio, including popular brands Horlicks and Boost, from GlaxoSmithKline in India and over 20 other markets for 3.1 billion pounds (about Rs 27,750 crore).

As part of the transaction, Unilevers Indian arm, Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) will acquire GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Ltd (GSK CH India) via an all-equity merger, valuing the total business of the latter at Rs 31,700 crore.

GSK CH India is the market leader in the health food drinks (HFD) category, with popular brands such as Horlicks and Boost.

Announcing the deal that also covers Bangladesh and 20 other predominantly Asian markets, Unilever said the transaction consists of an all-equity merger of HUL with the publicly-listed GSK Consumer Healthcare India and acquisition of 82 per cent stake in GSK Bangladesh Ltd.

It also includes acquisition of certain other commercial operations and assets outside India, it added.

HUL said its board has given nod for the all-equity merger of GSK CH India, under which with 4.39 shares of HUL will be allotted for every share in GSK CH India.

The iconic Horlicks brand has a deep heritage, credibility and resonance around the world. The acquisition is transformative for our Foods and Refreshment business, allowing us to enter the Health Foods Drinks category, further strengthening our position in health and wellness, Unilever President, Food & Refreshment, Nitin Paranjpe said.

Hindustan Unilever Chairman and CEO Sanjiv Mehta said with the strategic merger the company will be expanding its portfolio through great brands into a new category catering to the nutritional needs of our consumers.

The turnover of our foods and refreshments (F&R) business will now exceed Rs 10,000 crore and we will become one of the largest F&R businesses in the country, Mehta said.

HUL CFO Srinivas Pathak said at present the companys F&R business is at around Rs 2,400 crore.

We expect this business to grow in double digit over the medium term. This would be a significant opportunity, he said in a concall.

Stating that Horlicks has made a significant contribution to GSK and to the health of consumers across India for many decades, GSK CEO Emma Walmsley said: We believe Unilever is well placed to maximise its future potential.

She further said that proceeds from this transaction will be used to support the groups strategic priorities, including investing in our pharmaceutical business.

GSK said India remained an important market for it and the company will continue to invest in growth opportunities for its OTC and Oral Health brands there, which include Crocin, Eno and Sensodyne.The PMO has let the CBI bickering fester for far too long, damaging the apex probe agencys credibility and making the mythical deep state seem credible

If the landmark Vineet Narain judgment of the Supreme Court in the 1997 Jain hawala case is anything to go by, then it built enough jurisprudence to insulate the CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) from political interference and even made it impossible for politicians in the government to remove the CBI director for two years, ensuring he had freedom to carry out time-bound investigations. What happened on the ground after this judgment was that the CBI, which had worked under the Home Ministry earlier, was brought under the direct control of the Prime Ministers Office. The agency now works under the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) which reports directly to the PMO. In that sense, this esteemed office is quite aware of the CBIs functioning and could access information if it wanted to. This was evident during the coal scam investigations when PMO officials were caught vetting sealed CBI reports meant for the Supreme Court, which forced the judges to describe the apex agency as a caged parrot. From my 11-year experience as a journalist and having followed CBIs involvement in the 2G scam, I must say Prime Minister Narendra Modi couldnt exert overarching control over it or stem the tide of misuse.

When Modi came to power in May 2014, the then CBI Director Ranjit Sinha had the most tainted record but was in the saddle serving out his term. He was appointed on the recommendation of the then RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav. Such was his reputation that the Patna High Court even disqualified him from the fodder scam probe in the mid-1990s. Frankly, till his retirement in December 2014, Modi took no action against Ranjit Sinha, who even appointed an IRS officer as DIG in the CBIs anti-corruption wing in Delhi during the power transition in May 2014. This officer was caught for torturing a civil servant working in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs for taking a bribe and forcing him and his entire family to commit suicide. The concerned IRS officer, Sanjiv Gautam, was then a private Secretary to a powerful UPA Minister and it is a million dollar question how Sinha took him as DIG in the CBI just days before Modi became the Prime Minister. But then the Indian bureaucracy is known to play smart with appointments during power transitions, keeping them absolutely legitimate and within rules.

Sinha was even called out by Supreme Courts 2G and coal scam benches for meeting many of the accused, including corporates, at his home and was under the scanner of a court-dictated probe. This was a golden chance for Modi to act, cleanse the countrys top probe agency once and for all and get a transparent process going. But the Prime Minister remained silent, one which unfortunately amounted to being a safe passage for Sinha. Why? None has an answer.

The next CBI Director was selected in December 2014, as per the Lokpal Act, by a high-powered committee comprising the Prime Minister, the Chief Justice of India and the Opposition Leader in the Lok Sabha. The Prime Minister selected Ranjit Sinhas protege Anil Sinha as per existing seniority norms, a decision agreed to by the other members on the panel. Till December 2016, Anil Sinha dragged his feet on major corruption scandals like Aircel-Maxis, AgustaWestland, Robert Vadras land acquisitions and the National Herald-related cases, which were major campaign planks of the BJP when it was in the Opposition.

His tenure was marked by controversial raids at two sitting Chief Ministers offices, namely Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kerjiwal and Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Vir Bhadra Singh. In both instances, the Prime Minister was not in Delhi, travelling abroad during one and addressing naval officers on a warship in the high seas during the other. Had the CBI Director got clearance from the Prime Minister to conduct the raid in sitting Chief Ministers offices? Or did someone in the Cabinet direct him to do so once the Prime Minister was out of reach?

Anil Sinha even shunted a CBI Joint Director Ashok Tewari for summoning former Finance Minister P Chidambaram in December 2014 with regard to the Aircel-Maxis scam. How can an officer be shunted out for doing his duty? Have we then become the mythical deep state? That is the only answer.

In fact, proof that Modi was aware of the CBIs wrongdoings lies in the fact that he himself brought Gujarat cadre IPS officers, namely Rakesh Asthana, YC Modi and AK Sharma.

Even Enforcement Directorates young officer Rajeshwar Singh was hounded by the system for raiding Chidambarams home in December 2015 and exposing his familys assets in 14 countries and 21 foreign bank accounts. One would have expected Ashok Tewari and Rajeshwar Singh to be heroes in the Modi regime for taking bold action against his political rival Chidambaram. But the underbelly of Lutyens Delhi is difficult to grasp.

I must bring out two incidents of CBIs sheer lethargy and tardiness for political give and take. The first concerns a trial court judge overseeing the coal scam cases, Bharat Prashar, who summoned former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, holding him responsible for allocation of coal mines. The Congress even conducted a protest march against this. Meanwhile, Singh approached a non-relevant Supreme Court Bench and obtained a stay on the summons when he should have ideally sought redress in the Coal Scam Bench. It was CBIs duty to tell the court about this anomaly. However, it kept quiet and the trial court convicted poor Harish Chandra Gupta, then Coal Secretary, who was also not inclined to reveal the truth and became an approver. The endgame? Both the IAS lobby and politicians shed crocodile tears for a while, leading to recasting of the Prevention of Corruption Act. The CBI was rendered toothless. Again. The second case that emasculated the CBI further was the Delhi High Court staying the prosecution of Sonia Gandhis former private secretary Vincent George in January 2015. Till date, the CBI has not challenged this decision in the Supreme Court, though the Delhi High Court has terminated the magistrate son of the concerned High Court judge, who was caught for possessing unaccounted cash.

Now let us come to the current controversy. After the exit of Anil Sinha, Modi used his might, bypassed the next senior candidate RK Dutta and appointed trusted lieutenant Rakesh Asthana as CBIs Acting Director in December 2016. Asthana was too junior to hold the post of CBI chief and later, the

Prime Minister himself selected non-controversial Delhi Police Commissioner Alok Verma as the new Director in January 2017. He had selected him as Delhi Police Commissioner, too, in 2015.

However, post the appointments Modi perhaps could not sense the duel that had started between his trusted officers in the CBI. Rakesh Asthana, YC Modi and AK Sharma had already started bickering with each other and PMO officials reportedly took sides in this mud-slinging instead of sorting out issues. Meanwhile YC Modi was shunted out to the National Investigative Agency (NIA). The tussle continued as Asthana was not at all in a mood to obey the new CBI Director, who decided to take on Asthana by fixing the latters culpability in the Sterling Diary bribes. This time, Central Vigilance Commissioner KV Chowdhary looked the other way. And the PMO, in an unprecedented manner, issued a midnight order approving the promotion of Rakesh Asthana as Special Director in October 2017. This was the real breaking point between the CBI Director and his real superior, the Prime Minister. Now that the Supreme Court is seized of the matter, let us wait for its verdict.

Will the Supreme Court deliver the judgment before the retirement of Alok Verma on February 2? If justice is delayed, then it would give credence to what is generally assumed, that bigwigs protect each other and no matter what the regime, the bureaucracys shenanigans can always hold a system hostage to its priorities and ego. There is a famous Latin judicial term, Fiat justitia ruat caelum, which means Let justice be done though the heavens fall.

(The writer is Special Correspondent of The Pioneer)Ruthless determination will be needed to track down and prosecute those who indulged in 1984 violence. Only then will we be able to restore the faith of an aggrieved community in the Constitution

Two recent judicial pronouncements, including the judgment of a Delhi court awarding capital punishment to one accused and life imprisonment to another for their role in the barbaric killing of two Sikhs during the anti-Sikh pogrom unleashed by the Congress Party in 1984, is the first signal that even if 34 years have gone by, at least some of the perpetrators of that ghastly violence against a religious minority will be brought to book.

The Narendra Modi Governments determination to bring the culprits involved in this macabre drama after the assassination of Indira Gandhi; its decision to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for the purpose; and the Supreme Courts sustained focus on the failure of the law and order machinery have begun yielding results.

In the first case, a murderous mob led by a Congress leader torched shops owned by Sikhs in the Mahipalpur area in New Delhi and brutally assaulted and killed Hardev Singh and Avtar Singh, both in their 20s. That very day an FIR was registered against the leader of the Congress Party, but a Sessions Court acquitted him two years later. A second FIR was registered in 1993 after the testimony of Hardev Singhs elder brother before the Ranganatha Mishra Commission of Inquiry. But within a year, the Delhi Police filed a closure report claiming the accused were untraceable, despite the testimonies of family members and eye-witnesses. The success in this case became possible because of the Governments decision to form a SIT in February, 2015 to re-investigate such cases. The family is now determined to bring the Congress leader to book.

In the second case, the Delhi High Court upheld the conviction and sentence awarded to 70 people, all part of a murderous mob that lynched 95 Sikhs in the most heinous manner in the Trilokpuri area. The assault was so gruesome that 22 of these bodies remained unidentified. Shockingly, all the accused in this case of mass murder were awarded just five years of imprisonment by the trial court and many of them were on bail. The trial court delivered its verdict in August, 1996 and the cases lingered on. Stranger still, the then Government did not appeal to the High Court seeking higher punishment given the brutality that these persons indulged in.

The matter came before the High Court only because the persons convicted appealed against their conviction and sentence. While rejecting the appeal, the High Court had some harsh words to say about the attitude of the prosecution in this case. It said the police force and the civil administration did not take timely or effective action to prevent the riotous conditions from spiralling out of hand.

The Justice Nanavati Commission of Inquiry, which investigated the riots that broke out after the assassination of Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984, did a far more thorough job than many previous enquiries which were basically whitewash jobs. It established that in all 2,732 Sikhs were killed in those riots  2,146 in Delhi and 586 in some other towns in the northern region. Apart from these large scale murders, Sikhs suffered loss of homes and property in an unprecedented scale. This commission found considerable evidence of the direct involvement of Congress leaders and workers and the complicity of the law enforcement agencies in the riots in Delhi.

The Nanavati Commission has documented the gross failure of the police as follows: The police registered only 587 FIRs against the mobsters and even among them, declared 241 cases as untraced. Another 253 cases ended in acquittals. Further, 11 FIRs were quashed and in another 11 cases, the accused were discharged. The Commission was told that one case was pending investigation and 42 cases were pending trial. Describing the horrendous aftermath of Indira Gandhis assassination, the commission said mobs were instigated to take revenge against the Sikhs and they were transported in the state-owned Delhi Transport Corporation buses to localities where Sikhs were in large numbers. The mobsters were supplied weapons and inflammable materials like kerosene and petrol and they carried all this in DTC buses to specified locations. Then the savage assaults began.

The commission said it had received some material which indicated that Rajiv Gandhi, who had become Prime Minister soon after his mothers assassination, had told one of this officials that the Sikhs should be taught a lesson. The commission, however, did not pursue this because of lack of evidence but it indicted the Government for the complicity of the police and administration with the rioters and for the inordinate delay in calling in the Army. Even former President Zail Singh threw up his hands helplessly. He told a delegation of eminent Sikhs that he did not have the power to intervene.

In the light of all this evidence, the Narendra Modi Governments efforts are indeed commendable. The Government first constituted a committee headed by Justice GP Mathur in December, 2014 to recommend measures to ensure justice for the victims of 1984. On the recommendation of this committee, the Government set up the Special Investigation Team in February, 2015 to re-examine the closed cases.

In the meanwhile, the Supreme Court also stepped in to enquire about the delay in prosecution in many cases. It constituted a supervisory panel of judges to examine the work of the SIT and earlier this year decided to set up a three-member committee headed by a retired High Court Judge to re-investigate 186 cases in which investigations were closed.

Reports from Germany indicate that even though 73 years have gone by since the end of Wolrd War II, efforts are currently on to hunt down Nazis who were involved in the extermination of Jews. Special efforts are on to track down three members of a Nazi mobile death squad called Einsatzgruppen which indulged in shooting massacres and killed over one million civilians. The suspects are over 90 years old.

Such ruthless determination and honesty of purpose will be needed to track down and prosecute those who murdered thousands of Sikhs in 1984 and indulged in such unprecedented violence. Every case that was closed under Congress pressure must be re-opened and the political leaders who led the mobs must be brought to book. Only then will we be able to restore the faith of an aggrieved community in our Constitution and our democratic way of life.

(The writer is Chairman, Prasar Bharati. The views expressed here are personal)External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will co-chair the 12th session of the India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting for Economic and Technical Cooperation with her counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi during her official visit to the Gulf country from December 3-4.

With nearly USD 50 billion bilateral trade, the two countries are one of the largest trade partners for each other and have made robust investments bilaterally. The UAE is the sixth-largest source of Indian oil imports and hosts a 3.3 million-strong Indian community.

We look forward to the visit of the External Affairs Minister to Abu Dhabi to co-chair the India-UAE Joint Commission, Indias Ambassador to the UAE, Navdeep Singh Suri, said.

Suri said the Ministers visit is an important opportunity to continue the bilateral dialogue at the highest levels of government, to share views on major regional and global issues and to give a further boost to our comprehensive strategic partnership.

Such high-level visit helps in adding a new building block in areas like energy and food security, economy, defense and much else, he said. Meanwhile, the External Affairs Ministry has said that with the exchange of visits at the highest-level in the recent past, the bilateral relationship has been elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims.

The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community.

Since the border crossing could be an easy target for "terrorists, human traffickers and drug dealers", a strong mechanism was required to keep the situation under control on both sides of the border, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Deputy Director (Punjab) Mufakhar Adeel said. "The FIA has set up an immigration office at Kartarpur border in Narowal (some 120 kms from Lahore) in connection with the opening of Kartarpur corridor," Adeel told Dawn news.Violence erupts after recovery of body parts of a cow and a calf in Bulandshahr

A police inspector and a youth were killed on Monday as cow vigilantes run riot alleging illegal cow slaughter and torched a police post in Bulandshahr and clashed with police. The violence erupted soon after the recovery of the body parts of a cow and a calf in a nearby jungle. Protesters from Mahaw village in the district and nearby areas gathered outside the Chingarwathi Police Chowki and set it ablaze. They clashed with policemen and pelted stones and set several vehicles on fire.

"Police inspector Subodh Kumar died in hospital during treatment after being hit by a blunt object, probably stone," ADG Law and Order Anand Kumar said in Lucknow. Inspector Subodh Kumar was posted at the Siana Police Station. Police also said a 20-year-old youth, identified as Sumit, died of gunshot wounds during the clash.

As tension prevailed in the area following the violence that lasted nearly three hours, the Uttar Pradesh Government deployed additional police, including over 1,000 personnel of anti-riot forces, and ordered multiple probes  by SIT, ADG-Intelligence  and a magisterial enquiry.

Giving details of the incident, ADG Kumar said, "This morning, carcasses of the cows were found dumped in a forest area outside the village. Activists of right-wing organisations soon gathered at the spot and alleged that people of a community were indulging in cow slaughter."

Angry villagers and members of various Hindu groups brought the animal remains in tractor-trolley to the Chingarwathi Police Chowki and demanded action against the culprits. They raised slogans against the police administration and blocked the Bulandshahr-Garh State Highway.

Bulandshahr District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha, Sub-divisional Magistrate Avinash Kumar Maurya and other senior officials tried to reason with the protesters but they refused to budge. The protesters soon turned violent, pelting stones on policemen and indulging in arson, he said, adding that police had to open fire in self-defence.

Expressing concern over the incident, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed ADG (Intelligence) SB Shirodkar to rush to Bulandshahr and submit the detailed findings within the next 48 hours for necessary action against those found guilty. Amid reports that the cop was lynched, the ADG said the exact reason for his death will be known after a post-mortem and the enquiry by the ADG-intelligence, who has been asked to submit a report in 48 hours.

The ADG said security has been bolstered in the area with 500 personnel of Rapid Action Force and 600 personnel of Provincial Armed Constabulary.

Meanwhile, mobile footage from the area, shot by onlookers, showed young men attacking policemen with stones. The violence started around 10 am in Siana area in the district where a major three-day congregation of Tablighi Jamaat had concluded this afternoon.

The policemen warned against attempts to spread any misleading information, saying the incident was not related in any way to the congregation. "The incident occurred 40-50 km from the congregation site. Some miscreants were behind the violence and action is being taken against them in accordance with law," the Bulandshahr Police tweeted in the evening.The dust of controversy raised by Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh and his Cabinet Minister Navjot Singh Sidhus not-so-friendly political match appears to be settling down.

After reaching a crescendo, the din created by their Cabinet colleagues on Sidhus captain remarks virtually faded into oblivion on Monday as it was not even figured during the Cabinet meeting, as was expected earlier, apparently after the intervention of the party high command.

Sidhu had stirred the hornets nest during an interaction with the media in Hyderabad the previous week when asked about going to Pakistan to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the Kartarpur corridor despite Chief Ministers disapproval. Rahul Gandhi is my captain. It is he who sent me to Pakistan. Rahul Gandhi is the captain of the captain (Amarinder Singh) also, he had said. A day after, at least five Punjab Ministers lashed out at Sidhu asking him to resign from the State Cabinet on moral grounds.

Sources informed The Pioneer that the party high command has asked the state Ministers, including Sidhu, to refrain from making any statement on the issue.

Sidhu, who was in Rajasthan campaigning for the party for December 7 polls, maintained that he would meet the Chief Minister and sort out the issue by himself. You dont wash dirty linen in public...He is a fatherly figure, I respect him, and I will sort it out myself, said Sidhu while talking to the media on the sidelines of campaigning.

On election tour, Sidhu skipped the Cabinet meeting, maintaining that it was the party high command that has assigned him this responsibility.

It has been learnt that on the onset of the Cabinet meeting, one of the senior Minister asserted that the Sidhu issue should not at all be discussed in the meeting, especially in his absence. The Minister also cited a message from the party high command regarding bringing the matter to an end, considering December 7 election in Rajasthan where Sidhu has been campaigning for the party as star campaigner.

Available information also suggests that Punjab Congress president Sunil Jakhar and state party affairs secretary in-charge Asha Kumari have also played a significant role to save the issue from further blowing out of proportion.

A senior Congress leader, requesting anonymity, said that Asha Kumari had talked to Capt Amarinder and Sidhu requesting them to resolve the issue.

Besides, Ministers and party leaders have been asked to desist from making any public statement regarding any internal conflict, and discuss the same at the party forum.

Things have taken a wrong shape. The Ministers are fighting among themselves, causing a major embarrassment to the party, not only in the state, but also outside as Sidhu is campaigning in other states for elections there. The Chief Ministers loyalists had gone public against Sidhus remark which worsened the situation, and in the first place, Sidhu should also make any public statement with caution, said the Congress leader.

Cabinet Ministers Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa and Rana Gurmeet Singh Sodhi, who had asked Sidhu to step down on moral grounds and declared that the issue would eb dicussed in the Cabinet meeting, did not even mention it.

Other ministers  Sukhbinder Singh Sarkaria, Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, Aruna Chaudhary  had also condemned Sidhus statement while asking him to apologise to the Chief Minister.

After the meeting, Dharamsot said that Sidhus issue was not even mentioned in the meeting. Not a word was spoken on the matter, he said.Chief Minister Raghubar Das during his stay at Sahibgunj paid a visit to the ongoing project to build bridge cross Ganga River and reviewed the progress of the port and other infrastructure coming up over there.

The Chief Minister, while holding a meeting with the officials of the Indian Inland Waterways Authority and of the district headquarters on Monday, also enquired about the four-lane highway, ship repair center, retaining center and other projects related to transport besides the port and the bridge.

He, on the occasion, directed the concerned officials and consultants of the project to complete the work by February 2019.

The officials of Inland Waterways Authority informed the Chief Minister that 80 per cent work of the port construction has been completed. The CM told them to complete it by February next year.

He also told them to ensure quality of the work in mind, said Sahibgunj MLA Anant Ojha who accompanied the CM over there.

Later, the CM also presided over a departmental review meeting at Sahebganj where review of the 108 ambulance service and institutional delivery status came for discussion.

The Civil Surgeon informed that 12 ambulances had to come in the district in which 10 had been received.

The Chief Minister on the occasion also directed to ensure complete benefit of the welfare schemes in Scheduled Tribes-dominated villages, setting up more Women SHG and improve electricity reach to every household of Sahebganj by December 30.

Proper monitoring should take place about power connectivity. We have to ensure power connectivity to every household by the end of this year at any cost, said he.

The Chief Minister also talked about promotion of organic farming, identifying clusters for that and directed the District Agriculture Officer to engage farmers in a big way. Farm equipments would be provided to the farmers at concessional rates.

The CM also told officials to focus extensively on poultry, milk production and horticulture in order to raise farmers income. We should work towards strengthening the rural economy. Our vegetables have demand all over Europe, Saudi Arabia, and other countries.

After getting self-employment in these ways no one will migrate from Santhal Pargana for petty works and get exploited, the Chief Minister said. Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Kumar Singh, Deputy Development Commissioner Nancy Sahay and other officials were present during the review.On the 20th foundation day of College of Engineering, Roorkee, a technical exhibition by students made under Do It Yourself (DIY) initiative was held on Monday wherein 35 projects including those based on smart city, solar tree and solar cycle were showcased. The two day celebrations marked by cultural programmes including National Kavi Sammelan by Rahat Indori and Hari Om Panwar were appreciated by the students and locals.

Notably, a separate university has been planned on a new campus which the State Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat had announced during his last visit to the college. The university is expected to be in shape by next year end, said the functionaries.

Presiding over the function, chairman of COER, JC Jain said that various projects in robotics, home automation and solar energy have been initiated by the students. It should be mentioned here that that alumni of college Pankaj Kureel was awarded under Startup India by the Government recently.

Another ex-student Virtul Mittal was awarded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Self4society meet. He guided the students to use technology which also helps reach the person in remote corner of the country like making a mobile application which could help a farmer sell his product to the consumer in a metro city. He asked them to be entrepreneurs rather than employment seekers.

The Director General of COER, Major General (retd) O P Soni said that more than two decades had passed since the college was started. Last years achievement of the college was getting accreditation by NABL for testing laboratory of plastic polymers.

A soil testing lab which would enable the local farmers to test their soil samples and improve their crop produce depending on the quality of soil.

Under the aegis of COER Center of Excellence, the college has purchased the best quality international level technical equipment to make the students of civil engineering aware of the learning and earning concept.

On the occasion, sixth issue of International Journal of Engineering Research of the college, Tejas and journal based on developments in IT and management, Anwesh were released by the dignitaries.By Delana Isles

LAST week a massive lettuce scare spread across the United States, Canada and parts of the Caribbean due to possible contamination.





The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with Centre for Disease Control (CDC), state and local agencies, launched an investigation into a multistate outbreak of E coli O157:H7 (E coli) bacteria illnesses likely linked to romaine lettuce grown in California this fall.





The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and Canadian Food Inspection Agency have also been coordinating with US agencies as they investigate a similar outbreak in Canada.





The latest news on the outbreak indicated that up to 23 people in 11 states have been affected so far.





Following the alarming news last week, the Turks and Caicos Islands Government issued a warning to the local population, as the majority of the food imported into the territory comes from the United States.





The warning to residents, visitors, retailers, hotels and others advised them not to consume, serve or sell any type of romaine lettuce until further information from the FDA and CDC on the outbreak.





The Weekly News reached out the IGA supermarket this past week to enquire why their shelves were still stocked with the lettuce up to Monday, given the dire warning last week.





Managing director Ken Burns, who shared the latest news from the FDA with this publication,

indicated that the US brand grocer does not import their lettuce from the affected area, as such their product is safe to consume.





Burns said IGA purchases their romaine from out of New Mexico and that the CDC has stipulated that anything not out of the infected California region could be sold and consumed.





"We had it taken off the shelves until we got direct information from our supplier... they worked closely with the FDA on what growing regions were acceptable to sell or not sell, and we will start stating this on the package.





"Most of them do have where they are grown on the package now, but it will be placed separately and easy to read.





"Our wholesale division, all that they have, came from New Mexico also, so they have started distribution.





"What we pulled off the shelves late last week, we discarded a lot of it because it goes bad after a few days.





As of this past week, the local branches have indicated by way of a notice to customers that their product is safe to consume (pictured).





An update from the FDA on November 28 stated that the multi-agency task force has been conducting a trace back investigation, reviewing shipping records and invoices to trace the supply of romaine from the place where ill people were exposed to the place where that romaine was grown.





Preliminary trace back information indicates that ill people in several areas across the US were exposed to romaine lettuce harvested in California.





Specifically, current evidence indicates this romaine was harvested in the central coast growing regions of northern and central California.





The specific California counties FDA included in this region are: Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz and Ventura.





Additional counties may be added as the FDA trace back develops, the agency stated.





Romaine harvested from locations outside of the California regions identified by the trace back investigation does not appear to be related to the current outbreak.





There is no recommendation for consumers or retailers to avoid using romaine lettuce that is certain to have been harvested from areas outside of the central coast growing regions of northern and central California, the advisory read.





For example, romaine lettuce harvested from areas that include, but are not limited to the desert growing region near Yuma, the California desert growing region near Imperial County and Riverside County, the state of Florida, and Mexico, does not appear to be related to the current outbreak.





Additionally, there is no evidence hydroponically- and greenhouse-grown romaine is related to the current outbreak.





"During this new stage of the investigation, it is vital that consumers and retailers have an easy way to identify romaine lettuce by both harvest date and harvest location.





"Labelling with this information on each bag of romaine or signage in stores where labels are not an option would easily differentiate for consumers, romaine from unaffected growing regions, the FDA advised.





Based on discussions with producers and distributors, they further recommended that romaine lettuce entering the market will now be labelled with a harvest location and a harvest date or labelled as being hydroponically- or greenhouse-grown.





"If it does not have this information, you should not eat or use it. If romaine lettuce does have this labelling information, we advise avoiding any product from the central coast growing regions of northern and central California.





Escherichia coli O157, sometimes called VTEC, is a bacterial infection that can cause severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhoea and kidney failure.





People usually notice symptoms three to four days after they have been infected, but symptoms can start any time.



The Manohar Lal Khattar Government in Haryana is under fire over the mysterious death of a Dalit youth inside a police chowki in Jhajjar last week. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday sought a CBI probe into the incident and also, lashed out at the State Government for its apathy towards dalits.

Kejriwal on Monday visited the family of the deceased, Rajesh Kumar, in Jhajjar and accused the authorities of trying to hush up the matter.

Police have maintained that Kumar had committed suicide by hanging himself in the police chowki on November 28.

Describing the 22-year-olds death as a cold-blooded murder, Kejriwal, while talking to the mediapersons at Jhajjar said, I met his (Rajesh) mother. She told me that the police had picked him up as a witness in some case. He was not at fault and there was no FIR against him. In a way, he has been murdered at the police station and now they are trying to hush up the matter by saying it was a case of suicide.

How can anyone hang himself inside a police station?, asked Kejriwal, who was accompanied by AAPs Haryana unit chief, Naveen Jaihind.

He said, We demand that this case be handed over to the CBI and those police personnel, who are behind this, should be given exemplary punishment. Stepping up the attack on Khattar Government, Kejriwal alleged that many incidents against dalits had been reported in Haryana and they should be given security.

My demand from the Chief Minister (Manohar Lal) is that dalits be given security, especially this family. This family should also be given adequate compensation, a job should also be given to one member and they should be given justice, he said.

According to the police, Rajesh had picked up a wire inside the police chowki and hanged himself.

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shashank Kumar said that the youth had been brought to the chowki by some individual, who lodged a complaint stating that he be questioned in connection with his grandson going missing.Rabindra Kumar Jena has emerged as a formidable political potentate in the coastal political chessboard of Odisha. Cool, calm, poised and a man of few words, he believes more in practical and pragmatic approach in translating ideas into works than delivering rabble-rousing rhetoric. Today, Jena wields a considerable influence among the seven Assembly segments of the Balasore Parliamentary constituency, making his political rivals imperceptible. A trusted lieutenant of Naveen Patnaik, Jena opened his innings to the Lok Sabha by humbling his nearest BJP rival Pratap Sarangi in the 2014 general elections. A mechanical engineer by education with MBA Finance, he joined a ferroalloys company in Baleswar and turned it into a leading profit-making firm from a loss-making one. He has added a feather unto his cap by heading a ferroalloys plant in Europe. A social activist with his unflinching concern for societal issues and commitment to environmental protection, he has brought him encomiums and laurels from many institutions of repute. To name a few among them are Rajiv Gandhi Sadbhavana Award by Rajiv Gandhi Forum, Odisha; Utkal Samman 2004; Arch of Excellence (Business) Award 2004; Gem of India Award 2004; Maharaja Sri Ramchandra Bhanjdeo Award; Industrial Promotion in the State Award 2005 by Governor of Odisha; Rajiv Gandhi Rastriya Ekta Samman 2005, New Delhi; State Level Excellence Award 2005 by Chief Minister; Bhartiya Vikas Ratan Award 2007; Bharat Gourav Award by Institute of Economic Studies 2008; Award of Excellence by Governor of Odisha for Highest Relief Distribution during flood in Baleswar district 2008; Pride of the Nation Award 2008; Think Odisha Leadership Award 2010 for Best Education Support by Governor of Odisha; Best Citizens of India Award 2010. Prior to being elected as an MP, he had accompanied President of India Pratibha Devisingh Patil in a delegation to Switzerland and Austria in 2011. He has an enviable record of putting highest number of questions and participating in parliamentary debates although he is a first-timer to the Lok Sabha. He believes that the BJDs victory in 2019 election is a foregone conclusion since party supremo Naveen Patnaiks image has not suffered from any erosion despite the efforts of opposition parties. In an interview to The Pioneer, Jena spoke to Sugyan Choudhury on the developmental agenda relating to Baleswar district.

Would you please enumerate your developmental works during your tenure as MP for Baleswar district?

You see, development is a continuous process and takes time to take the final shape. But my efforts have been oriented towards developments that are both comprehensive and sustainable. I have been pursuing with the Central Government for many projects that would be complementary to our district in sectors like marine food processing, revival of a salt factory, setting up an Institute of Eminence, Baleswar railway division, etc. But it seems the Centre is not serious enough for development of Baleswar despite the place putting itself prominently on the world map. Despite the apathy, we have been able to persuade the Centre for four railway bridges in the district, two at Baleswsar and two at Jaleswar. Since Independence, the district had only three ROBs before that. I was able to convince the External Affairs Minister for a Passport Seva Kendra that opened in the Baleswar Head Post Office. The State Government under the stewardship of CM has been kind to consider our many demands and the fund flow to the district has increased manifold to take care of the development projects. After languishing for years for procedural delays, a Rs 3,000-crore Subarnarekha Port is seeing the light today, which will change the whole dynamics of the districts economy and employment scenario. We have a Pejagala project which will solve the woes of people of entire north Baleswar during rainy seasons. We have a Rs 350-crore Bankatira barrage project which is one of the biggest irrigation schemes, the work of which will start soon. A ring road project around the Baleswar town is underway which will ease the traffic woes of the increasing number of town residents as well as act as a barrier for floodwaters entering into city limits. We are shifting the district jail to outside of city area and the vacated space will be utilised for civic amenities that our town lacks over the years. We have infrastructure projects like roads, buildings, bridges, etc., for a sum of about Rs 1,400 crores in these four years.

What are the further plans on your agenda for a holistic development of the district if you are elected again?

I am pursuing for a mega industry in the district as industrial exposure always gives rise to economic prosperity and employment opportunities to our highly educated young mass. With both Subarnrekha a nd Dhamra Ports on either side of the district and rail and road connectivity, I am hopeful of attracting investors for the district soon.

It is alleged that Baleswars tourism scenario is not that developed due to governmental apathy. What could be your remedial measures in the days ahead?

I agree that the potential of the district in tourism has not been exploited to its full as it should be. Baleswar has a plethora of beautiful tourist attractions starting from Chandipur to Bhusandeswar. With about a 85-km coastline, the district has many beautiful and serene beaches. I have proposed a tourism circuit to the Government of India from Panchulingeswar to Bhusandeswar so that we create more tourism infrastructures and locals get livelihood support there.

What are the chances of your party coming to power again in 2019?

People of Odisha have reposed their faith and trust on our Honourable CM time and again for last 18 years for his people-centric, pro-poor initiatives and inclusiveness of all schemes; and I am sure they will do the same in 2019 also.

Whats your take on the talk of Amit Shah's claim in securing 120+ members in Odisha Assembly in the 2019 elections?

Its always good to boost the morale of the party workers with some pep talks; and it must be that when you are referring to this 120 thing. But realistically speaking, it seems a distant dream.

How do you rate yourself as a first-time Parliamentarian?

I have been honest to my responsibilities that Naveen Patnaik has provided me; and I am grateful for this opportunity to serve my people better and raise their voice at an appropriate legislative forum. I have been selected as one of the best performing MPs by the people in various surveys and this has given rise to my perception that I must be doing something good for them for last four years as their representative.Mom's Mom School organises Festum

Bhopal :The Mom's Mom School, Arera Colony on Sunday organised Festum- the carnival for children, where children enjoyed to the fullest.There were many recreational activities like tattoo making, pinwheel, ramp-walk, photo-booth, DJ, paper dance, adventure activity, spray paint, balloon darts, and candy making. Children's dress code was kept yellow and black for this Carnival. Parents also participated in lots of activities with their kids and had a great time. Preeti Verma, Principal told that the objective of this Carnival was to give children freedom from stressful life and boost their all-round development. Every child was awarded a special prize because every child is special and equal.

prayer meet on anniv of Bhopal Gas Tragedy

Bhopal: A prayer meeting is being organised on the 34th anniversary of Bhopal Gas Tragedy at Barkatullah Bhavan, Central Library at 10.30 am on Monday in presence of the Chief Secretary BP Singh. Tribute will be paid to the deceased gas victims at the prayer meeting and religious heads of various religions will offer religious prayers on the occasion.

Guv Patel pays tribute to Bhopal Tragedy victims

Bhopal: Governor Anandiben Patel has paid tribute to the deceased on the anniversary of Bhopal Gas Tragedy and prayed for a speedy recovery of victims suffering from physical and mental ailments.Patel has said that the Bhopal Gas Tragedy has attracted attention of all the countries towards environment and industrial security. She further mentioned that the government should publicise information about the relief and protection besides its related diseases among the local people before establishing such industries, taking lesson from the world s biggest gas tragedy happened as a result of chemical gas leak on midnight of 2 and 3 December 1984 at the Union Carbide Company.

Besides, the Governor stated that concrete arrangement should be made to stop recurrence of such accident in future.Punjab CM condoles passing away of Amarjit Goyal

Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh mourned the passing away of noted industrialist and former chairman Punjab Committee of PHD Chamber Amarjit Goyal, who breathed his last on Sunday evening. In his condolence message, the Chief Minister recalled the outstanding contribution of Goyal in promoting industry in the state.

Corporation Bank takes possession

Mohali: Corporation Bank, Mohali, Phase -10 Branch has taken physical possession of immovable property owned by Cambridge Educational Trust situated at Village Isherhail, Tehsi and district Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab. A statement from the bank said the action has been taken under Sarfaesi Act.

CBIEU's new body elected

Chandigarh: Pankaj Jain has been elected the new president of the Central Bank of India Employee Union along with BS Gill as General Secretary and Ramnivas as Treasurer during the North Zone Conference held at Chandigarh. It was also decided that union will join nation wide strike of employees being observed on Dec 26.

IIT Ropar celebrates its 7th Annual Convocation

Rupnagar: The Indian Institute of Technology Ropar (IIT Ropar) celebrated its 7th Annual Convocation at their permanent campus. Prof. John H. Lienhard V, PhD, PE, Professor of Water, Director, Abdul Latif Jameel World Water and Food Security Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute Of Technology, USA graced the occasion as the chief guest and delivered the convocation address. Prof SK Das, Director IIT Ropar presided over the ceremony. A total of 173 degrees were awarded this year. 103 B.Tech., 19 M.Tech., 27 M.Sc. and 24 PhD degrees were handed out to students.

Har-Khadi stores to be opened in Hry

Chandigarh: Haryana Khadi and Village Industries Board would establish sub-store namely Har-Khadi in big cities and towns of the state so that the products of khadi and village industries would be easily available to people. A decision to this effect has been taken in quarterly meeting of the Board held under the chairmanship of chairperson Gargi Kakkar, at Panchkula near here. This decision would benefit the units of village industries and boost their production besides providing employment opportunities to local youth.

Two non-official members nominated

Chandigarh: Haryana Government has nominated two non-official members of the District Public Relations and Grievances Committees of Bhiwani and Palwal with immediate effect. Sunil Verma has been nominated as non-official member of District Public Relations and Grievances Committee, Bhiwani and Tejpal Yadav as non-official member of District Public Relations and Grievances Committee Palwal, respectively.

HIV/AIDS awareness event held

Chandigarh: In accordance with the theme of World AIDS Day 2018, Chandigarh State AIDS Control Society had organized an HIV/AIDS awareness event on December 1 and 2 at Elante Mall. The objective of the event was to sensitize people from all walks of life on HIV/AIDS and to motivate them to come forward and get their HIV test done to know their HIV status. In this two days programme, more than 1000 people were sensitized about HIV/AIDS and out of these 153 people were screened for HIV. A team of young volunteers involved the visitors in awareness quiz on HIV/AIDS and gave prizes.The secretary, Power Radhika Jha took to field on Monday and conducted surprise inspections at many places in Haridwar and Dehradun districts. The officer inspected the electrification work of rural homes in Ghisarpatti and Khairi villages of Dehradun and Van Basti and Gujjar Basti of Haridwar district on the day.

Taking stern action on the incidents of power thefts in Jwalapur area of Haridwar, Jha recommended suspension of Addition Engineer Mayank Chauhan.

In the Salempur village of Jwalapur, she interacted with the local people and heard their grievance. She also raided Ms Vaibhav Ispat and Ms Rukmani steels on suspicion of power theft. On her order teams of department sealed the meters of these units. The secretary power also directed the Director operations of Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL) to inspect units consuming excess power in Udham Singh Nagar district.The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) was observed on Monday by a city based organisation with an awareness programme and felicitation ceremony of the differently abled children being held on the occasion. The gathering also appreciated the students for their talent in singing and dancing which they exhibited on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, advocate Rizwan Ali said, The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) was adopted on December 13, 2006 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

It can actually improve the condition of people with disabilities. He further said that the Government shall have to take necessary steps for the enforcement of this Act, use technology in right direction so as to improve the accessibility of the differently abled people to public places and buildings.

Rizwan said that the Government of Uttarakhand must implement Disability Act -2016 as soon as possible in the state. It is sad that the disability is still looked upon with pity instead of focus on the rights of citizens with special needs. Priority must be given to bring them to mainstream.

The public representatives must make society aware of the changing global approach towards these people.

The most important is that the State Government must form a separate department for rights of Divyangs and a census must be made for these as Kerala State has initiated.The speaker of the Uttarakhand Assembly, Prem Chand Agrawal inspected arrangements on the eve of the winter session of the State Assembly on Monday and gave necessary directions of the Vidhan Sabha officials.

The speaker took note of the sound system, sanitation arrangements, sitting arrangement of the legislators and power supply. He directed the officials to ensure that the sound and light arrangements during the session are flawless. He also asked the officials to place garlands on the pictures of stated activists placed on the gallery of the Assembly.Less than two weeks after organising Dharma Sabha to mobilise support for the construction of Ram temple at Ayodhya, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad is now gearing up to observe Shaurya Diwas on December 6, the day of demolition of Babri mosque, which Muslim outfits observe as Yaum-e-Gham (Day of Sorrow).

The year 2018 marks the completion of 26 years of the demolition of Babri mosque. This will be followed by Gita Jayanti celebrations marking the advent of Hindu sacred text Bhagavad Gita on December 18. Shaurya Diwas will be traditionally celebrated. In Ayodhya, VHP, along with various Hindu outfits, will hold religious functions, including a hawan, so that a grand Ram temple is built in Ayodhya, VHP spokesperson Sharad Sharma said in Ayodhya. Special prayers will be offered to Goddess Saraswati so that she can help people, specially politicians, in removing obstructions in the path of Ram temple construction, he said. Sarva baadha mukti hawans (hawans seeking to get rid of all obstructions) will be held. Tributes will also be paid to karsewaks who faced the bullets, he said.

Elaborating further, the VHP leader said a similar Dharma Sabha was scheduled in Delhi on December 9, which will be attended by over 5 lakh people. On January 31 and February 1, we are going to organise Dharma Sansad in Prayagraj wherein 5,000 seers from across the country will participate. Seers from southern and north-eastern states will also be invited. The sansad will deliberate upon Ram temple, cow protection and Ganga river. Social harmony will be another issue on which detailed discussions will be held, the VHP spokesperson said. Through Dharma Sabha at Ayodhya, we were able to send the message that Hindu Samaj wants a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya. The next course of action will be finalised during 2019 Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, he said. Mahant Ramdas of Nirmohi Akhara said that around 500 prominent ashrams of Ayodhya would be illuminated with lamps on December 6. We will light ghee lamps at 500 prominent ashrams of the temple town to celebrate the day, he said.Over 16,000 Volvo cars recalled in China

Beijing: A total of 16,582 Volvos are being recalled in China due to a problem with the software in the Vehicle Connectivity Module (VCM), according to the State Administration for Market Regulation.

Former Pak premier Gilani meets Oli

Kathmandu: Former Pakistan premier Yusuf Raza Gilani on Sunday called on Nepal's Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli during which they discussed the peace process of the Himalayan nation and regional issues including SAARC, a senior Nepalese official said.

5 shot in Miami neighbourhood

Miami: Authorities say five people have been shot in a Miami neighbourhood and the suspect remains at large. Miami police tell news outlets that the shooting happened Saturday night in the Overtown neighbourhood.

Indian-Americans seek AI service from Atlanta

Washington, Dec 2 (PTI) Indian-Americans have urged the Union Government to start Air India service from Atlanta in the US so as to facilitate better connectivity with their motherland. 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.AN INDEPENDENT investigation is being conducted by the Royal Cayman Islands Police Force into a Royal TCI Police involved shooting this past weekend.





The shooting occurred during an illegal fishing operation on Saturday (November 24) at sea.





Since then local officials have recruited the services of officers from the Cayman Islands police to conduct an independent probe.





Last Saturday, the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Marine Branch, supported by colleagues from Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) undertook an operation in response to potential illegal fishing near to Bush Cay, within the waters of the Turks and Caicos Islands.





Two vessels were intercepted and eight Dominican nationals were arrested in connection with illegal fishing.





During the arrest of the eight persons, one shot was fired by a police officer from on board a RTCIPF boat which caused one of the arrested persons to receive a gunshot injury to the upper arm.





This person received medical attention and was later released.





In a subsequent statement to the press, Police Commissioner James Smith noted that only through a complete investigation can they fully ensure that all of the RTCIPFs policies, procedures and training were followed, and, if needed, any future training needs.





Acting Police Commissioner Trevor Botting later in the week said that no one has been charged with illegal fishing yet.





Reports are that the illegal vessel was filled with fish, lobsters, conch and other seafood products.



The following companies are subsidiares of Dominion Energy: 96WI 8me LLC, Alamo Solar LLC, Align RNG Arizona LLC, Align RNG Arizona-Snowflake LLC, Align RNG California LLC, Align RNG California-Corcoran LLC, Align RNG Grady Road LLC, Align RNG LLC, Align RNG Magnolia LLC, Align RNG North Carolina LLC, Align RNG North Carolina-Bowdens LLC, Align RNG Utah LLC, Align RNG Utah-Milford LLC, Align RNG Virginia LLC, Align RNG Virginia-Waverly LLC, Atlantic Coast Pipeline LLC, Azalea Solar LLC, BOE Holdings Inc., Blackville Solar Farm LLC, Blue Ocean Energy Marine LLC, BrightSuite Home LLC, BrightSuite Inc., BrightSuite Solar CT Inc., BrightSuite Solar SC Inc., BrightSuite Solar VA Inc., Buckingham Solar I LLC, CEA Americus LLC, CEA CO-Fort Morgan LLC, CEA Clovis LLC, CEA Dairy RNG Colorado LLC, CEA Dairy RNG Georgia LLC, CEA Dairy RNG Idaho LLC, CEA Dairy RNG Nevada LLC, CEA Dairy RNG New Mexico LLC, CEA Dairy RNG Texas LLC, CEA Greely LLC, CEA Mason LLC, CEA TX-Dimmitt LLC, CID Solar LLC, CNG Coal Company, CNG Power Services Corporation, Carolina Gas Transmission Corporation, Catalina Solar 2 LLC, Clean Energy Asset USA LLC, Clean Energy Enterprises Inc., Clipperton Holdings LLC, Consolidated Natural Gas Company, Correctional Solar LLC, Cottonwood Solar LLC, Cove Point LNG LP, Cove Point LNG Limited, DE Arlington Solar LLC, DE Fluvanna Solar LLC, DE Hanover Solar LLC, DE Henrico Solar LLC, DE King William Solar LLC, DE Louisa Solar LLC, DE Newport News Solar LLC, DE Powhatan Solar LLC, DE Virginia Beach Solar LLC, DECP Holdings Inc., Dairy RNG Holdings LLC, Dairy RNG NY LLC, Dairy RNG NY-Curtin LLC, Dairy RNG OH LLC, Denmark Solar LLC, Dominion ACP Holding Inc., Dominion Alternative Energy Holdings Inc., Dominion Atlantic Coast Pipeline LLC, Dominion Capital Inc., Dominion Cogen WV Inc., Dominion Energy Fuel Services Inc., Dominion Energy Gas Distribution LLC, Dominion Energy Generation Marketing Inc., Dominion Energy Inc., Dominion Energy Kewaunee Inc., Dominion Energy Marketplace LLC, Dominion Energy Nuclear Connecticut Inc., Dominion Energy Overthrust Pipeline LLC, Dominion Energy Payroll Company Inc., Dominion Energy Questar Corporation, Dominion Energy Questar Pipeline LLC, Dominion Energy Questar Pipeline Services Inc., Dominion Energy RNG Holdings II Inc., Dominion Energy RNG Holdings Inc., Dominion Energy Services Inc., Dominion Energy Solar CA LLC, Dominion Energy Solutions Inc., Dominion Energy South Carolina Inc., Dominion Energy Southeast Services Inc., Dominion Energy Technical Solutions Inc., Dominion Energy Technologies II Inc., Dominion Energy Technologies Inc., Dominion Energy Terminal Company Inc., Dominion Energy Wexpro Services Company, Dominion Equipment III Inc., Dominion Equipment Inc., Dominion Fairless Hills Inc., Dominion Fowler Ridge Wind LLC, Dominion Gas Projects Company LLC, Dominion Generation Inc., Dominion Greenbrier Inc., Dominion High Voltage Holdings Inc., Dominion High Voltage MidAtlantic Inc., Dominion Investments Inc., Dominion Keystone Pipeline Holdings Inc., Dominion Keystone Pipeline LLC, Dominion MLP Holding Company III Inc., Dominion Mt. Storm Wind LLC, Dominion Nuclear Projects Inc., Dominion Oklahoma Texas Exploration & Production Inc., Dominion Person Inc., Dominion Privatization Florida LLC, Dominion Privatization Georgia LLC, Dominion Privatization Holdings Inc., Dominion Privatization Kentucky LLC, Dominion Privatization Maryland LLC, Dominion Privatization Pennsylvania LLC, Dominion Privatization South Carolina LLC, Dominion Privatization Texas LLC, Dominion Privatization Virginia LLC, Dominion Products and Services Inc., Dominion Projects Services Inc., Dominion Resources Capital Trust III, Dominion Retail Gas Holdings Inc., Dominion Solar Construction and Maintenance LLC, Dominion Solar Gen-Tie LLC, Dominion Solar Holdings I LLC, Dominion Solar Holdings II LLC, Dominion Solar Holdings III LLC, Dominion Solar Holdings IV LLC, Dominion Solar Projects A Inc., Dominion Solar Projects B Inc., Dominion Solar Projects C Inc., Dominion Solar Projects D Inc., Dominion Solar Projects I Inc., Dominion Solar Projects II Inc., Dominion Solar Projects III Inc., Dominion Solar Projects IV Inc., Dominion Solar Projects V Inc., Dominion Solar Projects VI Inc., Dominion Solar Projects VII Inc., Dominion Solar Services Inc., Dominion State Line LLC, Dominion Voltage Inc., Dominion Wholesale Inc., Dominion Wind Development LLC, Dominion Wind Projects Inc., ESCT-SA-Suffield LLC, Eagle Holdco Solar LLC, Eagle Solar LLC, Eastern Shore Solar LLC, Enterprise Solar LLC, Escalante Solar I LLC, Escalante Solar II LLC, Escalante Solar III LLC, Four Brothers Solar LLC, Fremont Farm LLC, Granite Mountain Holdings LLC, Granite Mountain Solar East LLC, Granite Mountain Solar West LLC, Greenbrier Marketing Company LLC, Greenbrier Pipeline Company LLC, Greensville County Solar Project LLC, Hardin Solar Energy LLC, Hecate Energy Cherrydale LLC, Hecate Energy Clarke County LLC, Hope Gas Inc., Imperial Valley Solar Company (IVSC) 2 LLC, Indy Solar Development LLC, Indy Solar I LLC, Indy Solar II LLC, Indy Solar III LLC, Innovative Solar 37 LLC, Iron Springs Holdings LLC, Iron Springs Solar LLC, Louis Dreyfus Natural Gas, Maricopa West Solar PV LLC, Moffett Solar 1 LLC, Moorings Farm 2 LLC, Mulberry Farm LLC, Mustang Solar LLC, PSNC Blue Ridge Corporation, PSNC Cardinal Pipeline Company, Pavant Solar LLC, Phone House, Pikeville Farm LLC, Prairie Fork Wind Farm LLC, Public Service Company of North Carolina Incorporated, QPC Holding Company LLC, Questar Corporation, Questar Energy Services Inc., Questar Field Services LLC, Questar Gas Company, Questar InfoComm Inc., Questar Southern Trails Pipeline Company, Questar White River Hub LLC, RE Adams East LLC, RE Camelot LLC, RE Columbia Two LLC, RE Kansas LLC, RE Kent South LLC, RE Old River One LLC, Richland Solar Center LLC, Ridgeland Solar Farm I LLC, SBL Holdco LLC, SCANA, SCANA Communications Holdings Inc., SCANA Corporate Security Services Inc., SCANA Energy Marketing LLC, SCANA Pharmacy LLC, SRFI LLC, Scana Corporation, Scott-II Solar LLC, Seabrook Solar LLC, Selmer Farm LLC, Siler Solar LLC, Sol Madison Solar LLC, Somers Solar Center LLC, South Carolina Fuel Company Inc., South Carolina Generating Company Inc., Southampton Solar LLC, Summit Farms Solar LLC, Sussex Drive Solar Project LLC, TA - Acacia LLC, TWE Myrtle Solar Project LLC, The East Ohio Gas Company, Trask East Solar LLC, Tredegar Solar Fund I LLC, VP Property Inc., Virginia Electric And Power Company, Virginia Power Fuel Corporation, Virginia Power Nuclear Services Company, Virginia Power Services Energy Corp. Inc., Virginia Power Services LLC, Virginia Solar 201 Projects LLC, Wakefield Solar LLC, Wexpro Company, Wexpro Development Company, Wexpro II Company, Wilkinson Solar LLC, Wrangler Retail Gas Holdings LLC, and Yemassee Solar LLC.The following companies are subsidiares of Mohawk Industries: A&S Energie NV, A&U Energie NV, Aladdin Manufacturing Corporation, Aladdin Manufacturing Of New York LLC, Aladdin Manufacturing of Alabama LLC, Alsace Logistique S.A., Avelgem Green Power CVBA, Avon Pacific Holdings Ltd, B&M NV, BGE Mexico S. de R. L. de C.V., Berghoef GmbH, Berghoef-Hout B.V., Bienes Raices y Materiales del Centro S. de R.L. de C.V., C.F. Marazzi S.A., Canterbury Spinners Ltd, Carpet Foundation Ltd, Cevotrans BV, Ceramus Bahia S/A  Produtos Ceramicos, DT Mex Holdings LLC, DTM/CM Holdings LLC, Dal Italia LLC, Dal-Elit LLC, Dal-Tile Chile Comercial Limitada, Dal-Tile Colombia S.A.S., Dal-Tile Distribution Inc., Dal-Tile Group Inc., Dal-Tile I LLC, Dal-Tile Industrias S. de R.L. de C.V., Dal-Tile International Inc., Dal-Tile Mexico Comercial S. de R.L. de C.V., Dal-Tile Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Dal-Tile Operaciones Mexico S. De R.L. De C.V., Dal-Tile Peru SRL, Dal-Tile Puerto Rico Inc., Dal-Tile Services Inc., Dal-Tile Shared Services Inc., Dal-Tile Tennessee LLC, Dal-Tile of Canada ULC, Daltile, Daltile, Dekaply NV, Durkan, Dynea NV, Eliane Argentina Sociedad Anonima, Eliane S/A - Revestimentos Ceramicos, Emilceramica India Pvt Ltd., Emilceramica S.r.l, Emilgermany GmbH, Emilgroup Asia Ltd, Explorer S.r.l., F.I.L.S. Investments Unlimited Company, Feltex Carpets Ltd, Feltex Carpets Pty Ltd, Feltex New Zealand Ltd, Fibremakers Australia Pty Ltd, Flooring Foundation Ltd, Flooring Industries Limited S.a r.l., Flooring XL B.V., Floorscape Limited, Godfrey Hirst & Co Pty Ltd, Godfrey Hirst (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Godfrey Hirst Australia Pty Ltd, Godfrey Hirst Group, Godfrey Hirst NZ Ltd, Hytherm (Ireland) Limited, IVC BVBA, IVC Far-East Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., IVC France S.a r.l., IVC GROUP LIMITED, IVC Green Power NV, IVC Group, IVC Group GmbH, IVC Luxembourg S.a r.l., IVC Rus OOO, IVC US Inc., International Flooring Systems S.a r.l., International Vinyl Company - Vostok OOO, KAI Group, KAI Keramica Ltd, KAI Mining EOOD, KERAMA CENTER OOO, Kerama Baltics OOO, Kerama Export OOO, Kerama Marazzi OOO, Kerampromservis (LLC), Khan Asparuh - Transport EOOD, Khan Asparuh AD, Khan Omurtag AD, Koninklijke Peitsman B.V., Kraj Kerama OOO, MG China Trading Ltd., MI Finance SRL, MUD (Holding) Brazil Ltda., Management Co EAD, Marazzi Acquisition S.r.l., Marazzi Deutschland G.m.b.H., Marazzi France Trading S.A.S., Marazzi Group, Marazzi Group F.Z.E., Marazzi Group S.r.l., Marazzi Group Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Marazzi Iberia S.L.U., Marazzi Japan Co. Ltd., Marazzi Middle East FZ LLC, Marazzi Schweiz S.A.G.L., Marazzi UK Ltd., Mohawk Assurance Services Inc., Mohawk Australia Pty Ltd, Mohawk Canada Corporation, Mohawk Capital Finance S.A., Mohawk Capital Luxembourg SA, Mohawk Carpet Distribution Inc., Mohawk Carpet Foundation Inc., Mohawk Carpet LLC, Mohawk Carpet Transportation Of Georgia LLC, Mohawk Commercial Inc., Mohawk ESV Inc., Mohawk Europe BVBA, Mohawk Factoring II Inc., Mohawk Factoring LLC, Mohawk Finance S.a r.l., Mohawk Foreign Acquisitions S.a r.l., Mohawk Foreign Funding S.a.r.l, Mohawk Foreign Holdings S.a r.l., Mohawk Foreign Investments Inc., Mohawk Global Investments S.a r.l., Mohawk Holdings International B.V., Mohawk Industries Inc., Mohawk International (Europe) S.a r.l., Mohawk International (Hong Kong) Limited, Mohawk International Capital N.V., Mohawk International Financing S.a.r.l, Mohawk International Holdings (DE) LLC, Mohawk International Holdings S.a r.l., Mohawk International Luxembourg S.a r.l., Mohawk International Netherlands B.V., Mohawk International Services BVBA, Mohawk KAI Luxembourg Holding S.a r.l., Mohawk KAI Luxembourg S.a r.l., Mohawk Luxembourg Capital S.A., Mohawk Luxembourg Financing S.a r.l., Mohawk Luxembourg Holdings S.a r.l., Mohawk Luxembourg Investments S.a r.l., Mohawk Luxembourg Pacific S.a r.l., Mohawk Marazzi International BV, Mohawk Marazzi Russia BV, Mohawk New Zealand Limited, Mohawk Operaciones Mexicali S. de R.L. de C.V., Mohawk Operations Luxembourg S.a r.l., Mohawk Pacific Investments S.a r.l., Mohawk Resources LLC, Mohawk Servicing LLC, Mohawk Singapore Private Limited, Mohawk Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Mohawk Unilin Luxembourg S.a r.l., Mohawk United Finance B.V., Mohawk United International B.V., Mohawk Vinyl Financing S.a r.l., Molber Beheer B.V., Monarch Ceramic Tile Inc., P.F. Onroerend Goed B.V., PF Beheer B.V., Pergo, Pergo (Europe) AB, Pergo Holding BV, Pergo India Pvt Ltd, Polcolorit S.A., Premium Floors Australia Pty Limited, RR Apex LLC, Rata International Pty Ltd, Recubrimientos Interceramica S. de R.L. de C.V., Riverside Textiles Pty Ltd, S.C. KAI Ceramics SRL, Sibir Kerama OOO, SimpleSolutions USA LLC, Soft Step (Australia) Pty Ltd, Spano Group, Spano Invest BVBA, Spano NV, Stroyagromekhzapchast ChaO, Stroytrans OAO Orelstroy, Summit Wool Spinners Ltd, The Flooring Federation Ltd, Tiles Co OOD, Unilin (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Unilin ApS, Unilin Arauco Pisos Ltda., Unilin BVBA, Unilin Beheer BV, Unilin Distribution Ltd., Unilin Distribution Ukraine LLC, Unilin Finland OY, Unilin Flooring India Private Limited, Unilin Flooring SAS, Unilin GmbH, Unilin Holding BVBA, Unilin Insulation BV, Unilin Insulation SAS, Unilin Insulation Sury SAS, Unilin Italia S.R.L., Unilin North America LLC, Unilin Norway AS, Unilin OOO, Unilin Panels SAS, Unilin Poland Sp.Z.o.o., Unilin SAS, Unilin Spain SL, Unilin Swiss GmbH, Unilin s.r.o., World International Inc., Xtratherm, Xtratherm Limited, Xtratherm S.A., and Xtratherm UK Limited.Suncor Energy Inc. operates as an integrated energy company. The company primarily focuses on developing petroleum resource basins in Canada's Athabasca oil sands; explores, acquires, develops, produces, transports, refines, and markets crude oil in Canada and internationally; markets petroleum and petrochemical products under the Petro-Canada name primarily in Canada. It operates in Oil Sands; Exploration and Production; Refining and Marketing; and Corporate and Eliminations segments. The Oil Sands segment recovers bitumen from mining and in situ operations, and upgrades it into refinery feedstock and diesel fuel, or blends the bitumen with diluent for direct sale to market. The Exploration and Production segment is involved in offshore operations off the east coast of Canada and in the North Sea; and operating onshore assets in Libya and Syria. The Refining and Marketing segment refines crude oil and intermediate feedstock into various petroleum and petrochemical products; and markets refined petroleum products to retail, commercial, and industrial customers through its other retail sellers. The Corporate and Eliminations segment operates four wind farm operations in Ontario and Western Canada. The company also markets and trades in crude oil, natural gas, byproducts, refined products, and power. The company was formerly known as Suncor Inc. and changed its name to Suncor Energy Inc. in April 1997. Suncor Energy Inc. was founded in 1917 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

Read MoreBy Olivia Rose

THE BANK of Nova Scotia on Tuesday (November 27) announced that it has struck a deal to sell its banking assets in nine Caribbean countries  but not the TCI.





This comes as the lender continues to narrow down the number of international markets in which it operates.





It agreed to sell its operations in Anguilla, Antigua, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Maarten, and St Vincent and the Grenadines.





The recent report further stated that larger markets in Latin America are still very much part of its plans.





The massive downsizing comes although the banks profit from its international banking unit grew at a greater rate than that of its Canadian business over the past year.





Canadas third-biggest lender reported adjusted earnings per share of $1.77 in the quarter ended October 31, compared with $1.65 a year ago.





Scotiabank president and CEO Brian Porter who announced the banks intentions to exit more than 20 countries globally noted that: "Exiting these non-core operations is consistent with a strategy that began five years ago to sharpen our focus, increase scale in core geographies and businesses, improve earnings quality and reduce risk to the bank.





Trinidad and Tobago-based Republic Financial Holdings (RFHL) has already announced its intention to acquire Scotiabanks Caribbean businesses.





Republic Financial Holdings, which is the parent company for Republic Bank, said in a press release on Tuesday (November 27) that the purchase price is $123 million.





The $123 million represents a $25 million consideration for the total shareholding of Scotiabank Anguilla and a premium of $98 million over net asset value for operations in the remaining eight countries.





This price does not include any amounts required to capitalise the branches post-closing according to Ronald F deC Harford, chairman of RFHL, who said: "This acquisition represents another major milestone for the Republic Group.





"As we grow and acquire significant positions in our existing markets, it is important that we continue to broaden our footprint, regionally and internationally.





"This agreement, which is subject to all regulatory approvals, affords us the opportunity to reach more clients in the Eastern Caribbean and Guyana, two markets we are familiar with, and build new relationships in St Maarten.





"We are confident that our expanded presence or entrance in those markets will redound to the benefit of Scotiabanks clients and employees as well as Republics existing stakeholders.





Additionally, Scotiabank announced Tuesday that its subsidiaries in Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago have agreed to sell their insurance operations to Barbados-based Sagicor Financial Corporation, which would also underwrite insurance products for Scotiabanks banking subsidiaries through a 20-year distribution agreement.





Scotiabank said these transactions would not be material, but that they would increase its common equity tier one capital ratio, a measure of financial strength, by around 10 basis points when they close.





"Due to increasing regulatory complexity and the need for continued investment in technology to support our regulatory requirements, we made the decision to focus the banks efforts on those markets with significant scale in which we can make the greatest difference for our customers, said Ignacio Deschamps, the head of international banking at Scotiabank.





The bank also closed its Grand Turk and Grace Bay branches earlier this year as part of a scheme to "consolidate its facilities.





This move led to the implementation of a banking facility which houses more services under one roof at the head office at ScotiaCentre on Cherokee Road in Providenciales.





Back in June 2018 Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson said the decision was "rather unfortunate and "could not come at a worse time for the territory.





Although the Government had expressed concerns about the staff and customers with hopes of being able to "avert the changes the banks decision was final.





The head office, which currently houses the retail branch, corporate and commercial banking and the managing directors offices, will become the new home for the full suite of services by year end.





Scotiabank has been on a bit of an acquisition binge over the past year, expanding its wealth management operations as well as in Latin America, where it is forecasting that growth in some countries will outpace Canada.





The bank has operated in the Caribbean since 1889 plan to refocus its business in the region by selling a number of insurance and banking operations.



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 Bank of Nova Scotia provides various banking products and services in Canada, the United States, Mexico, Peru, Chile, Colombia, the Caribbean and Central America, and internationally. It operates through Canadian Banking, International Banking, Global Banking and Markets, and Global Wealth Management segments. The company offers financial advice and solutions, and day-to-day banking products, including debit and credit cards, chequing and saving accounts, investments, mortgages, loans, and insurance to individuals; and business banking solutions comprising lending, deposit, cash management, and trade finance solutions to small businesses and commercial customers, including automotive financing solutions to dealers and their customers. It also provides wealth management advice and solutions, including online brokerage, mobile investment, full-service brokerage, trust, private banking, and private investment counsel services; and retail mutual funds, exchange traded funds, liquid alternative funds, and institutional funds. In addition, the company offers international banking services for retail, corporate, and commercial customers; and lending and transaction, investment banking advisory, and capital markets access services to corporate customers. Further, it provides Internet, mobile, and telephone banking services. The company operates a network of 952 branches and approximately 3,540 automated banking machines in Canada; and approximately 1,400 branches, 5,200 ATMs, and 22 contact centers internationally. The Bank of Nova Scotia was founded in 1832 and is headquartered in Halifax, Canada.

Read More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, SinnerSchrader AG, SinnerSchrader Commerce GmbH, SinnerSchrader Content GmbH, SinnerSchrader Deutschland GmbH, SinnerSchrader Praha s.r.o., SinnerSchrader Swipe GmbH, 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, 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.The following companies are subsidiares of Sealed Air: A.P.S. (Holdings) Limited, AFP Trading (China) Co. Ltd., AFPTOH LTD, APS Automated Packaging Systems GmbH & Co. KG, APS Verwaltungs-GmbH, Air Ride Pallets Hong Kong Limited, Austin Foam Plastics Inc. (dba AFP Inc.), Automated Packaging Systems, Automated Packaging Systems Asia Holding Company Limited, Automated Packaging Systems Comerciale Importacao do Brasil Ltda., Automated Packaging Systems Europe, Automated Packaging Systems LLC, Automated Packaging Systems Limited, Automated Packaging Systems Southeast Asia Co. Ltd., B+ Equipment, B+ Equipment SAS, Beacon Holdings LLC, Biosphere Industries, BluPack (New Zealand), Blue Dot Packaging Pty Ltd., Cactus (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Cryovac (Malaysia) SDN. BHD, Cryovac Brasil Ltda., Cryovac Holdings II LLC, Cryovac International Holdings Inc., Cryovac LLC*, Cryovac Leasing Corporation, Cryovac Londrina Ltda., Cryovac Packaging Portugal  Embalagens Ltda., Cryovac-Sealed Air de Costa Rica S.R.L., DELTAPLAM Embalagens Industria e Comercio, Diversey, Diversey J Trustee Limited, Diversey Trustee Limited, Entapack Pty. Ltd., Fagerdala (Chengdu) Packaging Co. Ltd, Fagerdala (Shanghai) Foams Co. Ltd., Fagerdala (Shanghai) Polymer Co. Ltd., Fagerdala (Suzhou) Packaging Co. Ltd., Fagerdala (Thailand) Limited, Fagerdala (Xiamen) Packaging Co. Ltd., Fagerdala Leamchabung Limited, Fagerdala Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Fagerdala Mexico S.A. de C.V., Fagerdala Mexico Supply Chain S.A. de C.V., Fagerdala Packaging Inc. (Indiana), Fagerdala Singapore Pte Ltd, Fagerdala Singapore Pte. Ltd., Getpacking.com GmbH, Invertol S. de R.L. de C.V., JSC Sealed Air Kaustik, KRIS Automated Packaging Systems Holding Company, Kevothermal LLC, Kevothermal Limited, Nelipak Holdings, Pack-Tiger GmbH, Polyrol Limited, Polyrol Packaging Systems LLC, ProAseptic Technologies S.L., Producembal- Producao de Embalagens LTDA, Reflectix Inc., SLD Air Packaging Paketleme Malzemeleri Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Saddle Brook Insurance Company, Sealed Air (Asia) Holdings BV, Sealed Air (Barbados) S.R.L., Sealed Air (Canada) Co./CIE, Sealed Air (Canada) Holdings B.V., Sealed Air (China) Co. Ltd., Sealed Air (China) Limited, Sealed Air (Israel) Ltd., Sealed Air (Korea) Limited, Sealed Air (Latin America) Holdings II LLC, Sealed Air (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Sealed Air (New Zealand), Sealed Air (Philippines) Inc., Sealed Air (Singapore) Pte. Limited, Sealed Air (Ukraine) Limited, Sealed Air Africa (Pty.) Limited, Sealed Air Americas Manufacturing S. de R.L. de C.V., Sealed Air Argentina S.A., Sealed Air Australia (Holdings) Pty. Limited, Sealed Air Australia Pty. Limited, Sealed Air Australia Real Estate Pty Ltd, Sealed Air B.V., Sealed Air Belgium N.V., Sealed Air Central America S.A., Sealed Air Chile SpA, Sealed Air Colombia Ltda., Sealed Air Corporation (US), Sealed Air Cyprus Ltd., Sealed Air Denmark A/S, Sealed Air Finance B.V., Sealed Air Finance II LLC, Sealed Air Finance Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Sealed Air Funding LLC, Sealed Air General Trading LLC, Sealed Air GmbH (Germany), Sealed Air GmbH (Switzerland), Sealed Air Hellas SA, Sealed Air Holding France SAS, Sealed Air Holdings (New Zealand) Pty. Ltd., Sealed Air Holdings South Africa Proprietary Limited, Sealed Air Holdings UK I Limited, Sealed Air Holdings UK Limited, Sealed Air Hong Kong Limited, Sealed Air Hungary Ltd., Sealed Air Investment and Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Sealed Air Japan G.K., Sealed Air LLC, Sealed Air Limited (Ireland), Sealed Air Limited (UK), Sealed Air Luxembourg (I) S.a.r.l., Sealed Air Luxembourg (II) S.a.r.l., Sealed Air Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Sealed Air Management Holding Verwaltungs GmbH, Sealed Air Multiflex GmbH, Sealed Air Netherlands (Holdings) I B.V., Sealed Air Netherlands (Holdings) II B.V., Sealed Air Netherlands Holdings V B.V., Sealed Air Norge AS, Sealed Air OY, Sealed Air Packaging (India) Private Limited, Sealed Air Packaging (Shanghai) Co. Limited, Sealed Air Packaging (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Sealed Air Packaging LLC, Sealed Air Packaging Materials (India) LLP, Sealed Air Packaging S.L.U., Sealed Air Peru S.A.C., Sealed Air Polska Sp. Zoo, Sealed Air Pty Limited, Sealed Air S.A S., Sealed Air S.r.l., Sealed Air South Africa (Pty.) Ltd., Sealed Air Svenska AB, Sealed Air Taiwan Limited, Sealed Air UK Limited Partnership, Sealed Air US Holdings (Thailand) LLC, Sealed Air Uruguay S.A., Sealed Air Verpackungen GmbH, Sealed Air de Mexico Operations S. de RL. de C.V., Sealed Air de Venezuela S.A., Sealed Air s.r.o., Shanklin Corp, Shanklin Corporation, TTS-Ciptec, TXAFP Asia Pacific Ltd., TXAFP GP LLC, and Trigon Industries.The following companies are subsidiares of BorgWarner: B80 Italia S.r.l., BERU AG, BW El Salto S.A. De C.V., BWA Receivables Corporation, BWA Turbo Systems Holding LLC, Borg Warner Europe Holdings (PDS) B. V., BorgWarner (China) Investment Co. Ltd., BorgWarner (Reman) Holdings L.L.C., BorgWarner (Thailand) Limited, BorgWarner Aftermarket Europe GmbH, BorgWarner Alternators Inc., BorgWarner Arden LLC, BorgWarner Arnstadt RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Asia Inc., BorgWarner Automotive Asia Limited, BorgWarner Automotive Components (Beijing) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Jiangsu) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Wuhan) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Brasil Ltda., BorgWarner Chungju Co. LLC, BorgWarner Comercial e Distribuidora de Pecas para Veiculos Automotores Ltda., BorgWarner Comercializadora PDS S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner Componentes PDS S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner Cooling Systems (India) Private Limited, BorgWarner Cooling Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Diversified Transmission Products Services Inc., BorgWarner Drivetrain Engineering GmbH, BorgWarner Drivetrain Management Services de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Drivetrain de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Electric Motors L.L.C., BorgWarner Emissions Systems (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Emissions Systems (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Emissions Systems Holding LLC, BorgWarner Emissions Systems India Private Limited, BorgWarner Emissions Systems LLC, BorgWarner Emissions Systems Portugal Unipessoal LDA, BorgWarner Emissions Systems Spain S.L.U., BorgWarner Emissions Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner Emissions Talegaon Private Limited, BorgWarner Engineering Ketsch RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Engineering Kibo RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Esslingen GmbH, BorgWarner Europe GmbH, BorgWarner Europe Holding S.a. r. l., BorgWarner Gateshead Limited, BorgWarner Germany Holding GmbH, BorgWarner Germany Holding Services GmbH, BorgWarner Germany REH GmbH, BorgWarner Germany REM GmbH, BorgWarner Germany Verwaltungs GmbH, BorgWarner Global Holding S.a. r. l., BorgWarner Heidelberg I RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Heidelberg II RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Heidelberg REH GmbH, BorgWarner Heidelberg REM GmbH, BorgWarner Holding Inc., BorgWarner Holdings Limited, BorgWarner Hungary Kft., BorgWarner IT Services Europe GmbH, BorgWarner India Holdings Inc., BorgWarner Investment Holding Inc., BorgWarner Ithaca LLC, BorgWarner Ketsch Plant RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Ketsch REH GmbH, BorgWarner Ketsch REM GmbH, BorgWarner Kft., BorgWarner Kibo RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Korea Holdings (PDS) B.V., BorgWarner Korea Holdings LLC, BorgWarner Korea LLC, BorgWarner Limited, BorgWarner Ludwigsburg GmbH, BorgWarner Ludwigsburg RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Markdorf Plant RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Markdorf REH GmbH, BorgWarner Markdorf REM GmbH, BorgWarner Massachusetts Inc., BorgWarner Mauritius Holdings Ltd., BorgWarner Mexico Holding BV, BorgWarner Mexico Holdings II LLC, BorgWarner Mexico Holdings LLC, BorgWarner Morse Systems India Private Limited, BorgWarner Morse Systems Italy S.r.l., BorgWarner Morse Systems Japan K.K., BorgWarner Morse Systems Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Muggendorf RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner NW Inc., BorgWarner Netherlands Holdings (PDS) B.V., BorgWarner Oroszlany Kft., BorgWarner PDS (Anderson) L.L.C., BorgWarner PDS (Changnyeong) LLC, BorgWarner PDS (Indiana) Inc., BorgWarner PDS (Livonia) Inc., BorgWarner PDS (Ochang) LLC, BorgWarner PDS (Thailand) Limited, BorgWarner PDS (USA) Inc., BorgWarner PDS Brasil Produtos Automotivos Ltda., BorgWarner PDS Irapuato S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner PDS Mexico Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner PDS Technologies L.L.C., BorgWarner Poland Sp. z o.o., BorgWarner Pyongtaek LLC, BorgWarner Romeo Power LLC, BorgWarner Rzeszow Sp. z o.o., BorgWarner Shenglong (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner South Asia LLC, BorgWarner Southborough Inc., BorgWarner Spain Holding S.L.U, BorgWarner Sweden AB, BorgWarner Systems Lugo S.r.l., BorgWarner Thermal Systems Inc., BorgWarner Thermal Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems Beijing Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Tralee Ltd., BorgWarner Transmission Products LLC, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Arnstadt GmbH, BorgWarner Transmission Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Korea LLC, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Tulle S.A.S., BorgWarner Trustees Limited, BorgWarner Turbo & Emissions Systems France S.A.S., BorgWarner Turbo Systems Engineering GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems LLC, BorgWarner Turbo Systems Worldwide Headquarters GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner Turbo and Emissions Systems de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner UK Financing Ltd., BorgWarner UK Holding and Services Ltd., BorgWarner US Holding LLC, BorgWarner USA Industries L.L.C., BorgWarner United Transmission Systems Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Waterloo Inc., BorgWarner Wrexham Limited, Cascadia Motion LLC, Creon Insurance Agency Limited, Delphi Technologies, Dytech ENSA, Gustav Wahler GmbH u. Co. KG, Haldex, Kuhlman LLC, Kysor Europe Limited, M. & M. Knopf Auto Parts L.L.C., NSK-Warner (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., NSK-Warner K.K., NSK-Warner Mexico S.A. de C.V, NSK-Warner U.S.A. Inc., New PDS Corp., Old Remco Holdings L.L.C., Old Remco International Holdings L.L.C., Remy International, SeohanWarner Turbo Systems LLC, Sevcon, Sevcon New Energy Technology (Hubei) Company Limited, and Transmission Systems AutoForm LLC.Invesco Preferred ETF's stock was trading at $14.13 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, PGX shares have increased by 4.2% and is now trading at $14.72.

View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19.By Olivia Rose

A TWO-day national symposium was held at the Airport Inn in Providenciales recently to ensure that people with special needs in the TCI are receiving appropriate support.





The symposium was held under the theme, Creating change through compassion, data and intervention and brought together key leaders, policy makers, heads of department, non-governmental organisations, community and civic leaders in one room.





Together they discussed and planned the way to provide quality education and self-empowerment for people with special needs in the TCI.





Speaking at the opening of the seminar on Wednesday (November 28), special needs education officer Jasmin Walkin said that the symposium aimed at helping the territory meet key targets of the No child left behind special education policy initiative.





"This national symposium, I hope, will set the trend for what should take place in the Governments policy development approach - which should be collaborate, sharing data, discuss the data, review existing laws and policies, draft amendments based on shared information and then implement the changes straight across the Government sectors cohesively.





He stressed it is imperative for events of this nature be organised since every so often practice of policy development and implementation has taken place within the public service independently with no cohesion.





This practice, he reasoned, has resulted in policy loopholes, resource duplication, and continuous amendments to multiple laws and policies.





"A national symposium for people with special needs was necessary because we had to start a national conversation on this topic.





"Stigmatisation and marginalisation of special needs individuals can only be discouraged through massive public awareness initiatives, new policies and programmes that provide opportunities for special needs individuals to gain equal access to education, training, employment and self-empowerment.





Also speaking at the symposium, Minister of Education Hon. Karen Malcom underscored the Governments commitment to advancing special needs education in the TCI.





She said: "We are working to ensure that our public schools will be able to serve children with special needs we are aware that too often parents are left with no option for their special needs children, except for a few family members who can afford to send their kids to a private institution.





"For many parents of children with disabilities, the most valuable thing of all is information.





"Early identification of cognitive or other disorders especially autism can make a life changing difference.





Minister Malcom added that the Government is working to assist families with special needs members in a number of areas.





She said: "Every child with disability can now pass through once closed doors into a bright new era of equality, freedom and independence.





Jamaicas first blind Senator Dr Floyd Morris delivered the keynote address at the conference.





The national symposium provided an opportunity for stakeholders to develop a strategic plan for focusing on what accommodations are needed for special needs individuals beyond secondary education, such as tertiary education, career development and training, and employment.



Bank of Montreal provides diversified financial services primarily in North America. The company's personal banking products and services include checking and savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, and financial and investment advice services; and commercial banking products and services comprise business deposit accounts, commercial credit cards, business loans and commercial mortgages, cash management solutions, foreign exchange, specialized banking programs, treasury and payment solutions, and risk management products for small business and commercial banking customers. It also offers investment and wealth advisory services; digital investing services; financial services and solutions; and investment management, and trust and custody services to institutional, retail, and high net worth investors. In addition, the company provides life insurance, accident and sickness insurance, and annuity products; creditor and travel insurance to bank customers; and reinsurance solutions. Further, it offers client's debt and equity capital-raising services, as well as loan origination and syndication, balance sheet management, and treasury management; strategic advice on mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, and recapitalizations, as well as valuation and fairness opinions; and trade finance, risk mitigation, and other operating services. Additionally, the company provides research and access to markets for institutional, corporate, and retail clients; trading solutions that include debt, foreign exchange, interest rate, credit, equity, securitization and commodities; new product development and origination services, as well as risk management advice and services to hedge against fluctuations; and funding and liquidity management services to its clients. It operates through approximately 1,400 bank branches and 4,800 automated banking machines in Canada and the United States. The company was founded in 1817 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.

Read MoreThere is not enough analysis data for Berkeley Energia.

4.4 Community Rank

Outperform Votes Berkeley Energia has received 72 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.)

Underperform Votes Berkeley Energia has received 38 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.)

Community Sentiment Berkeley Energia has received 65.45% outperform votes from our community.

MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about Berkeley Energia and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe BKY will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe BKY will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days.

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4.4 Community Rank

Outperform Votes Black Iron has received 66 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.)

Underperform Votes Black Iron has received 34 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.)

Community Sentiment Black Iron has received 66.00% outperform votes from our community.

MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about Black Iron and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe BKI will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe BKI will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days.

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NextCanadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, a diversified financial institution, provides various financial products and services to personal, business, public sector, and institutional clients in Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company operates through four strategic business units: Canadian Personal and Business Banking; Canadian Commercial Banking and Wealth Management; U.S. Commercial Banking and Wealth Management; and Capital Markets. The company offers chequing, savings, and business accounts; mortgages; loans, lines of credit, student lines of credit, and business and agriculture loans; investment and insurance services; and credit cards, as well as overdraft protection services. It also provides day-to-day banking, borrowing and credit, investing and wealth, specialty, and international services; correspondent banking and online foreign exchange services; and cash management services. The company serves its customers through its banking centers, as well as direct, mobile, and remote channels. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce was founded in 1867 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

Read MoreBy Olivia Rose

THE BAHAMAS National Trust (BNT) is set to assist the Turks and Caicos Islands in boosting its shark and ray diving tourism.





This collaboration will also see measures being put in place to further protect sharks and stingrays in the TCI.





The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) recently held two rounds of consultative meetings to discuss the marine apex predator conservation in the Turks and Caicos Islands.





The first meeting was held in Five Cays, Providenciales, on Tuesday (November 27) at the Community Centre and the second on Thursday (November 29) at the DECR Office, South Caicos.





According to a statement from the DECR issued earlier this week, the consultation meetings gave the community an opportunity to objectively hear about possible conservation methods, as well as to express their opinions and concerns regarding marine apex predator conservation.





The fishing, water sports, diving and tour operator stakeholders were strongly encouraged to attend the meetings as well as the wider public.





Eric Carey, executive director of the BNT, recently revealed that the Bahamas shark tourism earns $200 million plus annually.





In 2011, the Bahamas became the first country in the Caribbean to protect its shark populations.





The Bahamas government amended the Fisheries Regulations to prohibit commercial shark fishing along with the sale, importation and export of shark products.





A recent study published in the journal Biological Conservation that has found that sharks and rays contributed $114 million to the Bahamian economy in 2014, with 99 percent of this value generated by the shark and ray tourism sector.





According to the study, 19,000 divers or 43 percent of all dive tourists visiting The Bahamas, came primarily to see sharks.





Recreational shark divers spent $49 million, which went on to circulate through the national economy.



The following companies are subsidiares of Ingersoll Rand: 211 E. Russell Road LLC, Air-Relief, Belliss & Morcom Brasil, Belliss and Morcom, Boardwalk Enterprises, Charm Merger Sub Inc., CompAir, CompAir (Hankook) Korea Co. Ltd., CompAir Acquisition (No. 2) Ltd., CompAir Acquisition Ltd., CompAir BroomWade Ltd., CompAir Canada, CompAir Finance Ltd., CompAir GmbH, CompAir Holdings Limited, CompAir Holman Ltd, CompAir International Trading (Shanghai) Co Ltd, CompAir Korea Ltd, CompAir South Africa (SA) (Pty) Ltd., CompAir UK Ltd, CompAir USA, Consolidated Distribution Holdings Ltd., DV Systems Inc., Emco Wheaton, Emco Wheaton GmbH Branch, Emco Wheaton Gmbh, Emco Wheaton UK, Emco Wheaton USA Inc, Enza Air Propriety Limited (South Africa), GD Aria Holdings #2 Limited, GD Aria Holdings Limited, GD Aria Investments Limited, GD First UK Ltd, GD German Holdings GmbH, GD German Holdings I Gmbh, GD German Holdings II GmbH, GD German Investments GmbH, GD Global Holdings, GD Global Holdings II, GD Global Holdings UK II Ltd., GD Global Ventures I B.V., GD Global Ventures II B.V., GD Global Ventures III B.V., GD Industrial Products Malaysia SDN. BHD., GD Investment KY, GD UK Finance Ltd., Gardner Denver (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Gardner Denver Austria GmbH, Gardner Denver Bad Neustadt Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver Belgium NV, Gardner Denver Brasil Industria E Comercio de Maquinas Ltda., Gardner Denver CZ + SK sro, Gardner Denver Canada Corp, Gardner Denver Cyprus Investments II Ltd., Gardner Denver Cyprus Investments II Ltd. - US Branch, Gardner Denver Cyprus Investments Ltd., Gardner Denver Cyprus Investments Ltd. - US Branch, Gardner Denver Deutschland GmbH, Gardner Denver Engineered Products India Private Limited, Gardner Denver FZE, Gardner Denver Finance II LLC, Gardner Denver Finance Inc & Co KG, Gardner Denver France SA, Gardner Denver France SAS, Gardner Denver Group Services Ltd, Gardner Denver Group Svcs Ltd, Gardner Denver Hoffman, Gardner Denver Holdings, Gardner Denver Holdings Limited, Gardner Denver Hong Kong Investments Limited, Gardner Denver Hong Kong Ltd, Gardner Denver Iberica, Gardner Denver Industries Ltd., Gardner Denver Industries Pty Ltd., Gardner Denver Industries Pty Ltd. Branch, Gardner Denver International, Gardner Denver International Ltd., Gardner Denver Intl Ltd Middle East Regional Rep Office, Gardner Denver Investments, Gardner Denver Italy Holdings S.r.L., Gardner Denver Japan, Gardner Denver Kirchhain Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver Korea, Gardner Denver Korea Ltd, Gardner Denver Ltd, Gardner Denver Ltd South Africa, Gardner Denver Ltd., Gardner Denver Ltd. Branch (Ireland), Gardner Denver Machinery (Shanghai) Co, Gardner Denver Machinery (Shanghai) Co., Gardner Denver Nash Brasil Industria E Comercio De Bombas Ltda, Gardner Denver Nash Deutschland GmbH, Gardner Denver Nash LLC, Gardner Denver Nash Machinery Ltd, Gardner Denver Nash Machinery Ltd., Gardner Denver Nederland BV, Gardner Denver Nederland Investments B.V., Gardner Denver Oberdorfer Pumps, Gardner Denver Oy, Gardner Denver Petroleum Pumps, Gardner Denver Polska Sp z.o.o., Gardner Denver Pte Ltd., Gardner Denver S.r.l., Gardner Denver Schopfheim GmbH, Gardner Denver Schopfheim Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver Schweiz AG, Gardner Denver Slovakia, Gardner Denver SudAmerica S.r.l., Gardner Denver Sweden AB, Gardner Denver Taiwan Ltd., Gardner Denver Thomas, Gardner Denver Thomas GmbH, Gardner Denver Thomas Pneumatic Systems (Wuxi) Co., Gardner Denver Thomas Real Estate GmbH & Co KG, Gardner Denver UK, Gardner Denver Water Jetting Systems, Garo Dott. Ing. Roberto Gabbioneta S.r.l., Hamworthy Belliss & Morcom, ILMVAC (UK) Ltd., ILS Innovative Labor Systeme, ILS Inovative Laborsysteme GmbH, Indonesia Foreign Trade Representative Office, LeROI, LeRoi International Inc, MP Pumps Inc., Mako Compressors, Nash, Nash Elmo, Oina VV, Oina VV Aktiebolag, Robuschi, Rotary Compression Technologies, Runtech Systems, Runtech Systems (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Runtech Systems Inc., Runtech Systems OY, Shanghai CompAir Compressors Co Ltd, Shanghai Compressors & Blowers Ltd., Syltone, TCM Investments, TIWR Real Estate GmbH & Co. KG, TODO AB, Tamrotor Marine Compressors AS, Thomas Industries, Thomas Industries Inc., Tri-Continent Scientific, Welch Vacuum Equipment (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Zinsser Analytic, Zinsser Analytik GmbH, and Zinsser NA.Cerro Grande Mining Corporation is a mining, exploration and development company. The Company produces gold, silver and copper, with operations mainly in Chile. Its Pimenton mine encompasses 3,121 hectares (7,708 acres). The Company's other assets are a porphyry copper deposit (the Pimenton Porphyry) and other projects in various stages of exploration and development in Chile, which include Santa Cecilia, Tordillo, and two limestone deposits Catedral and Cal Norte. The Company holds mining claims on Tordillo, which is located 11.5 kilometers southsouthwest of Pimenton and covers an area of 6,632 hectares (16,381 acres). The Company is the 100% owner of the Santa Cecilia project, which is located in the Maricunga gold district of Chile and adjacent to Exeter Resources Caspiche project. The Catedral Project is located 80 kilometers in a direct line south east of Santiago.

Read MoreiShares Core MSCI Europe ETF's stock was trading at $39.49 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, IEUR stock has increased by 45.7% and is now trading at $57.54.

View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19.Nokia has signed a EUR 250 million loan transaction with the Nordic Investment Bank (NIB) to finance research and development activities related to 5G technology.

The loan, which has an average maturity of approximately 5 years after disbursement, will finance Nokias extensive research and development program focused on 5G activities in Europe in 2018-2020. The investment will especially concentrate on developing new 5G-related end-to-end product offerings for different business areas.

5G is the next generation of wireless systems beyond the current 4G standards, providing a substantial increase in network capacity, reducing latency delays and enabling network slicing. Network slicing gives network operators greater ability to differentiate their services to match clients needs.

Nokias 5G research and development program also focuses on the implementation of the Internet of Things, machine-type communication between the things humans have invented. In practice, this means a network of different devices, such as home appliances, vehicles and other electronics, being able to exchange data wirelessly.

Henrik Normann, NIB President & CEO, said, The business opportunities of 5G are numerous, as it will be the first mobile generation designed from the beginning for machine-type communication. Nokias research and development is likely to benefit not just the telecom sector, but also several high-technology operators in our member countries.

Kristian Pullola, CFO, Nokia, said, We are pleased to receive this financing commitment from the NIB, which shares our view of the revolutionary nature of 5G. This financing will further support 5G research and development in Europe and it bolsters the momentum we have already seen this year as the era of 5G begins.



@Technuter.com News ServiceThe following companies are subsidiares of Abbott Laboratories: 3A Nutrition (Vietnam) Company Limited, ABON Biopharm (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd., AGA Medical Belgium, AGA Medical Corporation, AGA Medical Holdings Inc., ALR Holdings, AML Medical LLC, APK Advanced Medical Technologies LLC, ATS Bermuda Holdings Limited, ATS Laboratories Inc., Abbott, Abbott (Jiaxing) Nutrition Co. Ltd., Abbott (UK) Finance Limited, Abbott (UK) Holdings Limited, Abbott AG, Abbott Asia Holdings Limited, Abbott Asia Investments Limited, Abbott Australasia Holdings Limited, Abbott Australasia Pty Ltd, Abbott B.V., Abbott Bahamas Overseas Businesses Corporation, Abbott Belgian Investments, Abbott Bermuda Holding Ltd., Abbott Biologicals B.V., Abbott Biologicals LLC, Abbott Bulgaria Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Capital India Limited, Abbott Cardiovascular Inc., Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc., Abbott Delaware LLC, Abbott Diabetes Care Inc., Abbott Diabetes Care Limited, Abbott Diabetes Care Sales Corporation, Abbott Diagnostics GmbH, Abbott Diagnostics International Ltd., Abbott Diagnostics Technologies AS, Abbott Doral Investments S.L., Abbott Equity Holdings Unlimited, Abbott Equity Investments LLC, Abbott Established Products Holdings (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Finance Company SA, Abbott Financial Holdings SRL, Abbott France S.A.S., Abbott Fund Tanzania Limited, Abbott Gesellschaft m.b.H., Abbott GmbH & Co. KG, Abbott Health Products LLC, Abbott Healthcare (Puerto Rico) Ltd., Abbott Healthcare B.V., Abbott Healthcare Costa Rica S.A., Abbott Healthcare LLC, Abbott Healthcare Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Healthcare Private Limited, Abbott Healthcare Products B.V., Abbott Healthcare Products Ltd, Abbott Holding (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Holding GmbH, Abbott Holding Subsidiary (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Holding Subsidiary (Gibraltar) Limited Luxembourg S.C.S., Abbott Holdings B.V., Abbott Holdings LLC, Abbott Holdings Limited, Abbott Holdings Poland Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Hungary Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Abbott Iberian Investments (2) Limited, Abbott Iberian Investments Limited, Abbott India Limited, Abbott Informatics Asia Pacific Limited, Abbott Informatics Canada Inc, Abbott Informatics Corporation, Abbott Informatics Europe Limited, Abbott Informatics France, Abbott Informatics Germany GmbH, Abbott Informatics Netherlands B.V., Abbott Informatics Singapore Pte. Limited, Abbott Informatics Spain S.A., Abbott Informatics Technologies Ltd, Abbott International Corporation, Abbott International Enterprises Ltd., Abbott International Holdings Limited, Abbott International LLC, Abbott International Luxembourg S.ar.l., Abbott Investments Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Ireland, Abbott Ireland Financing Designated Activity Company, Abbott Ireland Limited, Abbott Japan Co. Ltd., Abbott Kazakhstan Limited Liability Partnership, Abbott Knoll Investments B.V., Abbott Korea Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Bangladesh) Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Chile) Holdco (Dos) SpA, Abbott Laboratories (Chile) Holdco SpA, Abbott Laboratories (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Abbott Laboratories (Mozambique) Limitada, Abbott Laboratories (Pakistan) Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Philippines), Abbott Laboratories (Puerto Rico) Incorporated, Abbott Laboratories (Singapore) Private Limited, Abbott Laboratories A/S, Abbott Laboratories Argentina Sociedad Anonima, Abbott Laboratories B.V., Abbott Laboratories C.A., Abbott Laboratories Finance B.V., Abbott Laboratories GmbH, Abbott Laboratories Inc., Abbott Laboratories International LLC, Abbott Laboratories Ireland Limited, Abbott Laboratories Limited, Abbott Laboratories Limited - Laboratoires Abbott Limitee, Abbott Laboratories NZ Limited, Abbott Laboratories Pacific Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Poland Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Laboratories Products B.V., Abbott Laboratories Residential Development Fund Inc., Abbott Laboratories S.A., Abbott Laboratories SA, Abbott Laboratories Services Corp., Abbott Laboratories Slovakia s.r.o., Abbott Laboratories South Africa (Pty) Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Trustee Company Limited, Abbott Laboratories Uruguay S.A., Abbott Laboratories Vascular Enterprises, Abbott Laboratories d.o.o., Abbott Laboratories de Chile Limitada, Abbott Laboratories de Colombia S.A., Abbott Laboratories de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Abbott Laboratories druzba za farmacijo in diagnostiko d.o.o., Abbott Laboratories s.r.o., Abbott Laboratories(Hellas) Societe Anonyme, Abbott Laboratorios S.A., Abbott Laboratorios S.A., Abbott Laboratorios del Ecuador Cia. Ltda., Abbott Laboratuarlari Ithalat Ihracat ve Ticaret Ltd.Sti, Abbott Laboratorios Lda, Abbott Laboratorios do Brasil Ltda., Abbott Limited Egypt LLC, Abbott Logistics B.V., Abbott Management GmbH, Abbott Management LLC, Abbott Manufacturing Singapore Private Limited, Abbott Mature Products International Unlimited Company, Abbott Mature Products Management Limited, Abbott Medical (Hong Kong) Limited, Abbott Medical (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Abbott Medical (Portugal) Distribuicao de Produtos Medicos Lda, Abbott Medical (Schweiz) AG, Abbott Medical (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Abbott Medical (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Australia Pty. Ltd., Abbott Medical Austria Ges.m.b.H., Abbott Medical Balkan d.o.o. Beograd (Novi Beograd), Abbott Medical Belgium, Abbott Medical Canada Inc./ Medicale Abbott Canada Inc., Abbott Medical Danmark A/S, Abbott Medical Devices Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Espana S.A., Abbott Medical Estonia OU, Abbott Medical Finland Oy, Abbott Medical France SAS, Abbott Medical GmbH, Abbott Medical Hellas Limited Liability Trading Company, Abbott Medical Ireland Limited, Abbott Medical Italia S.p.A., Abbott Medical Japan Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Korea Limited, Abbott Medical Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Abbott Medical Laboratories LTD, Abbott Medical Nederland B.V., Abbott Medical New Zealand Limited, Abbott Medical Norway AS, Abbott Medical Overseas Cyprus Limited, Abbott Medical Sweden AB, Abbott Medical Taiwan Co., Abbott Medical U.K. Limited, Abbott Medical spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Middle East S.A.R.L., Abbott Molecular Inc., Abbott Morocco SARL, Abbott Nederland C.V., Abbott Nederland Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Netherlands Investments B.V., Abbott Norge AS, Abbott Nutrition Limited, Abbott Nutrition Manufacturing Inc., Abbott Operations Singapore Pte. Ltd., Abbott Operations Uruguay S.R.L., Abbott Overseas Cyprus Limited, Abbott Overseas Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Overseas S.A., Abbott Oy, Abbott Point of Care Canada Limited, Abbott Point of Care Inc., Abbott Poland Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Procurement LLC, Abbott Products (Philippines) Inc., Abbott Products (Spain) S.L., Abbott Products Algerie EURL, Abbott Products B.V., Abbott Products Distribution SAS, Abbott Products Egypt LLC, Abbott Products Limited, Abbott Products Limited Liability Company, Abbott Products Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Products Operations AG, Abbott Products Operations LLC, Abbott Products Romania S.R.L., Abbott Products Tunisie S.A.R.L., Abbott Products Unlimited Company, Abbott Resources Inc., Abbott Resources International Inc., Abbott S.r.l., Abbott Saudi Arabia Trading Company, Abbott Scandinavia Aktiebolag, Abbott Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable, Abbott South Africa Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Strategic Opportunities Limited, Abbott Trading Company Inc., Abbott Universal LLC, Abbott Vascular Devices (2) Limited, Abbott Vascular Devices Limited, Abbott Vascular Inc., Abbott Vascular Instruments Deutschland GmbH, Abbott Vascular International, Abbott Vascular Japan Co. 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.The following companies are subsidiares of 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..Green Dot Corp. operates as a financial technology leader and bank holding company, which engages in the provision of modern banking and money movement accessible for all. It operates through the following segments: Account Services; Processing and Settlement Services; and Corporate and Other. The Account Services segment consists of revenues and expenses derived from deposit account programs, such as prepaid cards, debit cards, consumer and small business checking accounts, secured credit cards, payroll debit cards, and gift cards. The Processing and Settlement Services segment comprises of products and services that specialize in facilitating the movement of funds on behalf of consumers and businesses. The Corporate and Other segment represents eliminations of intersegment revenues and expenses, unallocated corporate expenses, depreciation and amortization, and other costs that are not considered when management evaluates segment performance. The company was founded by Steven W. Streit in October 1, 1999 and is headquartered in Pasadena, CA.

Read MoreDowDuPont Inc., through its subsidiaries, engages in agriculture, materials science, and specialty products businesses in the United States, Canada, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The company's Agriculture segment produces, and sells hybrid corn seed and soybean seed varieties; sunflowers, wheat, alfalfa, canola, cotton, rice, and sorghum; silage inoculants; and crop protection products that include weed control, disease control, and insect control. Its Performance Materials & Coatings segment manufactures and sells architectural paints and coatings, and industrial coatings; performance monomers and silicones; standalone silicones; and home and personal care solutions. The company's Industrial Intermediates & Infrastructure segment offers ethylene oxides, propylene oxide derivatives, cellulose ethers, redispersible latex powders, and acrylic emulsions; sustainable solutions; and chlorine and caustic soda. Its Packaging & Specialty Plastics segment provides ethylene, and propylene and aromatic products; and polyolefin elastomers and ethylene propylene diene monomer rubbers. The company's Electronics & Imaging segment offers materials and systems for mobile devices, television monitors, personal computers, and electronics. Its Nutrition & Biosciences segment provides specialty ingredients, as well as cellulosic- and alginates-based pharma excipients; and enzymes, biomaterials, biocides, and antimicrobial solutions and process technologies. The company's Transportation & Advanced Polymers segment offers engineering resins, adhesives, lubricants, and parts for transportation, electronics, healthcare, industrial, and consumer end-markets. Its Safety & Construction segment provides engineered products and integrated systems for construction, worker safety, energy, oil and gas, transportation, medical device, and water purification and separation industries. The company was founded in 1897 and is headquartered in Midland, Michigan.

Read MoreEllie Mae, Inc. provides cloud-based platform for the mortgage finance industry in the United States. It provides Encompass, an enterprise solution that engages in running the business of originating mortgages, including marketing and lead management; loan origination and processing; underwriting; preparation of mortgage applications, disclosure agreements, and closing documents; loan funding and closing; compliance with regulatory and investor requirements; and enterprise management. The company's Encompass Digital Lending Platform helps lenders and investors across their workflow from the prospective customers to the point of loan delivery. In addition, the company provides education and training services; professional and technical support services; and loan product, policy, and guideline data and analytics services. Ellie Mae, Inc. was founded in 1997 and is headquartered in Pleasanton, California.

Read MoreTCF Financial Corporation operates as the financial holding company for TCF National Bank that provides various financial products and services in the United States and Canada. It operates through Consumer Banking, Commercial Banking, and Enterprise Services segments. The company offers checking, savings, and money market accounts; certificates of deposit; individual retirement accounts; debit and credit cards; and check cashing and remittance services. It also provides investment management and custodial services, trust services, financial and estate planning, and retirement planning and employee benefit programs; residential, consumer, and small business lending products; and consumer real estate secured lending, consumer loans, loans secured by personal property, and unsecured personal loans. In addition, the company offers loans and lines of credit, deposits, cash management, capital market products, international trade finance, letters of credit, foreign exchange management services, and loan syndication services. Further, it provides commercial and industrial, commercial real estate banking, and lease financing; and treasury services comprising investment and borrowing portfolios, as well as manages capital, debt, and market risks. As of December 31, 2020, the company operated 478 branches, including 373 traditional branches, 102 supermarket branches, and three campus branches located in Michigan, Illinois, Minnesota, Colorado, Ohio, Wisconsin, Arizona, and South Dakota; and 1,062 ATMs. TCF Financial Corporation was incorporated in 1987 and is headquartered in Detroit, Michigan.

Read MoreGreen Earth Technologies, Inc. creates, develops, markets, sells, and distributes bio-based performance and cleaning products to the oil and gas well service, automotive aftermarket, outdoor power equipment, and marine markets worldwide. The company offers well services products, including well stimulation, sump remediation, and surface washing agents, as well as storage tank, oil field rig, and equipment cleaners; and performance products, such as motor oils, racing oils, engine oils, fuel stabilizers, and other lubricants. It also provides outdoor power equipment and cleaning chemicals comprising pressure washer equipment, multipurpose-multi surface cleaner, foam and oxy foam blaster, and grill and surface cleaner, as well as concrete cleaner and degreaser, siding and all purpose cleaner, and mold and mildew stain remover; and automotive appearance products consisting of car wash, wheel cleaner and brake dust shield, tire shine, glass cleaner, interior protectant, and rain repellent and anti-fog products. The company sells its products under the G-CLEAN, Well Wake-UP, G-OIL, and G-MARINE brands. It sells its products directly, as well as through distribution agreements with wholesalers, contractual arrangements with independent sales and marketing professionals, and the Internet. The company serves home centers, mass retail outlets, automotive stores, and equipment manufacturers. Green Earth Technologies, Inc. was founded in 2007 and is based in Greenwich, Connecticut.

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.Invesco CurrencyShares Singapore Dollar Trust's stock was trading at $70.23 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, FXSG shares have increased by 0.0% and is now trading at $70.23.

View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19.iShares China Large-Cap ETF's stock was trading at $38.80 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus (COVID-19) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, FXI stock has increased by 2.8% and is now trading at $39.89.

View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19.CA, Inc., doing business as CA technologies, develops, markets, delivers, and licenses software products and services in the United States and internationally. It operates through three segments: Mainframe Solutions, Enterprise Solutions, and Services. The Mainframe Solutions segment offers solutions for the IBM z Systems platform, which runs various mission critical business applications. Its mainframe solutions enable customers enhance economics by increasing throughput and lowering cost per transaction; increasing business agility through DevOps tooling and processes; increasing reliability and availability of operations through machine intelligence and automation solutions; and protecting enterprise data with security and compliance. The Enterprise Solutions segment provides a range of software planning, development, and management tools for mobile, cloud, and distributed computing environments. It primarily provides customers secure application development, infrastructure management, automation, and identity-centric security solutions. The Services segment offers various services, such as consulting, implementation, application management, education, and support services to commercial and government customers for implementation and adoption of its software solutions. The company serves banks, insurance companies, other financial services providers, government agencies, information technology service providers, telecommunication providers, transportation companies, manufacturers, technology companies, retailers, educational organizations, and health care institutions. It sells its products through direct sales force, as well as through various partner channels comprising resellers, service providers, system integrators, managed service providers, and technology partners. The company was formerly known as Computer Associates International, Inc. and changed its name to CA, Inc. in 2006. CA, Inc. was founded in 1974 and is headquartered in New York, New York.

Read MoreiShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF's stock was trading at $37.46 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus (COVID-19) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, EEM shares have increased by 34.5% and is now trading at $50.39.

View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19.iShares Russell Mid-Cap ETF shares split before market open on Friday, October 26th 2018. The 4-1 split was announced on Friday, September 28th 2018. The newly minted shares were payable to shareholders after the closing bell on Thursday, October 25th 2018. An investor that had 100 shares of iShares Russell Mid-Cap ETF stock prior to the split would have 400 shares after the split.Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. provides technical, professional, and construction services. The company's Aerospace, Technology, Environmental and Nuclear segment offers scientific, engineering, construction, nuclear, environmental, and technical support services to the aerospace, defense, technical, and automotive industries. Its Buildings, Infrastructure and Advanced Facilities segment develops/rehabilitates plans for highways, bridges, transit, tunnels, airports, railroads, intermodal facilities, and maritime or port projects; develops or rehabilitates critical water resource systems, water/wastewater conveyance systems, and flood defense projects; and provides engineering design, construction management, design build, and operations and maintenance. This segment also designs and constructs buildings; offers consulting, engineering, procurement, construction management, and delivery services for life sciences clients; and provides services relating to modular construction and other consulting and strategic planning services, as well as offers services in containment, barrier technology, locally controlled environments, building systems automation, off-the-site design, and fabrication of facility modules. The company's Energy, Chemicals and Resources segment offers services relating to onshore and offshore oil and gas production facilities, processing facilities, gathering systems, and transmission pipelines and terminals; feasibility/economic studies, technology evaluation, conceptual engineering, front end loading, detailed engineering, procurement, construction, maintenance, and commissioning services; and engineering, procurement, and construction solutions. This segment also provides services, such as manufacturing complex, expansions, modifications, and management of plant relocations; construction management and field construction services; and services to operate and maintain facilities. The company was founded in 1947 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

Read MoreThe Undead Archives

I have finally salvaged my pre-Blogger TDR archives and added them into Blogger. They are almost totally in the form of one giant post for each month. And the formatting strayed from the originals. Sorry. But historians everywhere can rejoice that this treasure trove of my thoughts is restored to the world.Energy Transfer Partners, L.P. engages in the natural gas midstream, and intrastate transportation and storage businesses in the United States. The company's Intrastate Transportation and Storage segment transports natural gas from various natural gas producing areas through connections with other pipeline systems, as well as through its ET Fuel System and HPL System. This segment owns and operates approximately 7,900 miles of natural gas transportation pipelines and three natural gas storage facilities in Texas. Its Interstate Transportation and Storage segment provides natural gas transportation and storage services; owns and operates approximately 11,800 miles of interstate natural gas pipelines; and has interests in various natural gas pipelines. The company's Midstream segment gathers, compresses, treats, blends, processes, and markets natural gas. It owns and operates natural gas and natural gas liquids (NGL) gathering pipelines, natural gas processing plants, natural gas treating facilities, and natural gas conditioning facilities. The company's NGL and Refined Products Transportation and Services segment transports mixed NGLs and other hydrocarbons; stores mixed NGLs, NGL products, and petrochemical products; and separates mixed NGL streams into purity products. This segment owns and operates various NGL pipelines, NGL and propane fractionation facilities, and NGL storage facilities. Its Crude Oil Transportation and Services segment engages in the transportation, terminalling, and acquisition and marketing of crude oil; and operates crude oil trunk and gathering pipelines. The company's All Other segment engages in the natural gas compression equipment business; provides natural gas compression equipment and compression services; manages coal and natural resources property, sells standing timber, and leases coal-related infrastructure facilities; and generates electrical power. Energy Transfer Partners, L.P. was founded in 1995 and is based in Dallas, Texas.

Read More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 PPG Industries: AIPCF V Texstars Blocker Inc., AkzoNobel, Alermac Inversiones S.A. de C.V., Alpha Coating Technologies LLC, Alpha Coatings Inc., Broad Range Development Limited, Brown Brothers Distribution Limited, CG Holdings Manufacturing Co., Centro de Investigacion en Polimeros S.A. de C.V., Chemfil Canada Limited, Chorlton Trade Paints Limited, Comercial Mexicana de Pinturas S.A. de C.V., Comex, Comex Industrial Coatings S.A. de C.V., Consorcio Comex S.A. de C.V., Cristacol S.A., Cuming Microwave Corporation, Deutek SA, Dexmet Corporation, Dexmet Holding Corporation, Distribuidora Kroma S.A. de C.V., EPIC Insurance Co. Ltd., Eberle Design Inc., Empresa Aga S.A. de C.V., Ennis Canadian Holding Company, Ennis Flint Soluciones Seguras Para Trafico, Ennis Highway Traffic Technology (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Ennis Manufacturing Sdn Bhd, Ennis Paint Australia Holding Pty Ltd, Ennis Paint Boya Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S., Ennis Paint Canada ULC, Ennis Paint Germany GmbH, Ennis Paint Netherlands Holdings LLC, Ennis Paint U.K. Holding Company Limited, Ennis Traffic Safety Solutions Pty Ltd, Ennis  Flint Mexico, Ennis  Flint New Zealand, Ennis  Flint New Zealand Holding Pty Ltd, Ennis-Flint, Ennis-Flint Africa (Pty) Ltd, Ennis-Flint Inc., Foshan Bairun Chemicals Co. Ltd., Fpu Industrial S.A. de C.V., Grupo Comex S.A. de C.V., Hemmelrath Automotive Coatings (Jilin) Co. Ltd., Hodij Coatings B.V., Homax Products, Industria Chimica Reggiana I.C.R. SPA, Johnstones Paints Limited, Kalon Investment Company Limited, Kalon South Africa Proprietary Limited, Manchester Thermoplastics LLC, Masterwork Paint, MetoKote Canada Limited, MetoKote Corporation, MetoKote Mexico Holding Inc., MetoKote UK Limited, MetoKote de Mexico S. de RL de CV, PPG AC - France SA, PPG ALESCO Automotive Finishes Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., PPG AP Resinas S.A. de C.V., PPG Aerospace Materials (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., PPG Architectural Coatings (Puerto Rico) Inc., PPG Architectural Coatings Canada Inc., PPG Architectural Coatings Ireland Limited, PPG Architectural Coatings Italy S.r.l., PPG Architectural Coatings UK Limited, PPG Architectural Finishes Inc., PPG Asian Paints Private Ltd., PPG COATINGS SINGAPORE PTE. LTD., PPG Canada Inc., PPG Cieszyn S.A., PPG Coatings (Hong Kong) Co. Limited, PPG Coatings (Kunshan) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., PPG Coatings (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings (Thailand) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings (Wuhu) Company Ltd., PPG Coatings (Zhangjiagang) Co. Ltd., PPG Coatings B.V., PPG Coatings Belgium BV, PPG Coatings Danmark A/S, PPG Coatings Deutschland GmbH, PPG Coatings Europe B.V., PPG Coatings Manufacturing SARL, PPG Coatings Nederland BV, PPG Coatings S.A., PPG Coatings South Africa (Pty) Ltd., PPG DYRUP S.A., PPG Deco Czech a.s., PPG Deco Polska sp. z.o.o., PPG Deco Slovakia s.r.o., PPG Deutschland Business Support GmbH, PPG Deutschland Sales & Services GmbH, PPG Distribution S.A.S., PPG Europe B.V., PPG Finance B.V., PPG France Business Support S.A.S., PPG France Manufacturing S.A.S., PPG Guadeloupe SAS, PPG Hellas S.A., PPG Hemmelrath Coatings Inc., PPG Hemmelrath Lackfabrik GmbH, PPG Holdco SAS, PPG Holdings (U.K.) Limited, PPG Holdings Argentina USA LLC, PPG Holdings Latin America USA LLC, PPG Iberica S.A., PPG Iberica Sales & Services S.L., PPG Industrial Coatings B.V., PPG Industrial do Brasil - Tintas E. Vernizes - Ltda., PPG Industries (Korea) Ltd., PPG Industries (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., PPG Industries (UK) Ltd, PPG Industries Argentina S.R.L., PPG Industries Australia PTY Limited A.C.N. 055 500 939, PPG Industries Colombia Ltda., PPG Industries Czech Republic s.r.o., PPG Industries Delfzijl B.V., PPG Industries Europe Sarl, PPG Industries France S.A.S., PPG Industries International Inc., PPG Industries Italia S.r.l., PPG Industries Kimya a Sanayi VE Ticaret AS, PPG Industries LLC, PPG Industries Lipetsk LLC, PPG Industries Middle East FZE, PPG Industries Netherlands B.V., PPG Industries New Zealand Limited, PPG Industries Ohio Inc., PPG Industries Poland Sp. Z.o.o., PPG Industries Securities LLC, PPG Industries de Mexico S.A. de C.V., PPG Italia Business Support S.r.l., PPG Italia Sales & Services S.r.l., PPG Japan Ltd., PPG Kansai Automotive Finishes Canada LP, PPG Kansai Automotive Finishes U.K. LLP, PPG Kansai Automotive Finishes U.S. LLC, PPG Luxembourg Finance S.aR.L., PPG Luxembourg Holdings S.aR.L., PPG Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., PPG Mexico S.A. de C.V., PPG Packaging Coatings (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., PPG Paints Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., PPG Performance Coatings (Hong Kong) Limited, PPG Powder Coatings (Shanghai) Limited, PPG Romania S.A., PPG SSC Co. Ltd., PPG Switzerland GmbH, PPG Trilak Kft., PPG Vietnam Co. Ltd., PRC-DeSoto Australia Pty Ltd., PRC-DeSoto International Inc., PT. PPG Coatings Indonesia, Painter's Supply, Paintzen, Peintures de Paris SAS, Plasticos Envolventes S.A. de C.V., Polymeric Systems Inc., Prismo Road Markings Limited, ProCoatings B.V., ProCoatings BV, Protec Pty Ltd. A.C.N. 007 857 392, Reno A&E LLC, Revocoat France SAS, Revocoat Holding SAS, Revocoat Iberica SLU, Revocoat S.A.S, Road Infrastructure Investment Holdings Inc., SEM Products Inc., Sealants Europe SAS, Sierracin Corporation, Sierracin/Sylmar Corporation, Sigma Marine & Protective Coatings Holding B.V., SigmaKalon (BC) UK Limited, SigmaKalon Group, SigmaKalon Middle East B.V., Sikar (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Spraylat International Ltd, Texstars LLC, The Crown Group Co., The Crown Group Inc, The Homax Group, Tikkurila Group, Traffic Safety Intermediate LLC, Traffic Safety Parent LLC, United International Business NV, Vanex Inc., Vernisol S.p.A., Versaflex, Viasa S.A. de C.V., Whitford, Whitford B.V., Whitford Corporation, Whitford Jiangmen Ltd., Whitford Ltd. (HK), Whitford Ltd. (UK), Whitford Pte. Ltd., Whitford S.r.l., Whitford Worldwide Company LLC, Worwag Coatings, and Zaganite Industries Pty Ltd.We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

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The Womens Center of Brazoria County has two 24-hour hotlines where a trained specialist can help if you or a loved one were assaulted. Call 1-800-243-5788. For the northern end of the county, call 281-585-0902.

Anyone suffering PTSD can go to https://www.myptsd.com/, an online forum providing community support and a 24-hour chat room for those in need of immediate help.

If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide or know someone who is, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.CF Industries Holdings, Inc. engages in the manufacture and distribution of nitrogen fertilizer. The firm owns and operates nitrogen plants and serves agricultural and industrial customers through its distribution system. It operates through following segments: Ammonia, Granular Urea, UAN, AN, and Other. The Ammonia segment produces anhydrous ammonia, which is company's most concentrated nitrogen fertilizer product as it contains 82% nitrogen. The Granular Urea segment produces granular urea, which contains 46% nitrogen. The UAN segment produces urea ammonium nitrate solution, which is a liquid fertilizer product with a nitrogen content from 28% to 32%, is produced by combining urea and ammonium nitrate. The AN segment produces ammonium nitrate, which is a nitrogen-based product with a nitrogen content between 29% and 35%. The Other segment includes diesel exhaust fluid, nitric acid, urea liquor and aqua ammonia. The company was founded in 1946 and is headquartered in Deerfield, IL.

Read MoreThere is not enough analysis data for Dividend 15 Split Corp. II.

5.0 Community Rank

Outperform Votes Dividend 15 Split Corp. II has received 4 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.)

Underperform Votes Dividend 15 Split Corp. II has received 1 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.)

Community Sentiment Dividend 15 Split Corp. II has received 80.00% outperform votes from our community.

MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about Dividend 15 Split Corp. II and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe DF will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe DF will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days.

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Next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..TC Energy Corporation operates as an energy infrastructure company in North America. It operates through Canadian Natural Gas Pipelines, U.S. Natural Gas Pipelines, Mexico Natural Gas Pipelines, Liquids Pipelines, and Power and Storage segments. The company builds and operates 93,400 km network of natural gas pipelines, which transports natural gas from supply basins to local distribution companies, power generation plants, industrial facilities, interconnecting pipelines, LNG export terminals, and other businesses. It also has regulated natural gas storage facilities with a total working gas capacity of 535 billion cubic feet. In addition, it has approximately 4,900 km liquids pipeline system that connects Alberta crude oil supplies to refining markets in Illinois, Oklahoma, Texas, and the U.S. Gulf Coast. Further, the company owns or has interests in seven power generation facilities with a combined capacity of approximately 4,200 megawatts that are powered by natural gas and nuclear fuel sources located in Alberta, Ontario, QuAbec, and New Brunswick; and owns and operates approximately 118 billion cubic feet of non-regulated natural gas storage capacity in Alberta. The company was formerly known as TransCanada Corporation and changed its name to TC Energy Corporation in May 2019. TC Energy Corporation was incorporated in 1951 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Zalando SE operates as an online fashion and lifestyle retailer. It offers a range of products, including shoes, apparel, accessories, and beauty products for women, men, and children, as well as free delivery and returns services. The company also sells its products through its Zalando Lounge; and brick-and-mortar stores in Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne, Leipzig, Hamburg, Hanover, MAnster, Stuttgart, Mannheim, and Ulm. It serves in Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The company has a strategic partnership with Sephora SAS to create the online prestige beauty destination. Zalando SE was founded in 2008 and is headquartered in Berlin, Germany.

Read MoreSimmba trailer saw the dawn today. Being a Monday, the theatre was packed with a huge crowd. Karan Johar, director Rohit Shetty, Ranveer Singh, Sara Ali Khan with other cast and credit were present on the dais. It was indeed a mutual admiration, where one and all were praising each other.

Karan who is known to give great headlines said, It is a thunderous Monday, love the energy! Today is the first day my baby has gone to school. I call it school because when it comes to film making it is the Rohit Shetty School of films. He is India's most mainstream filmmaker.

While present on the dais director Rohit Shetty was in a mood to reveal many secrets from the film. RohitShetty revealed a secret as to how Simmba is like a cub. Our Simmba is Singham's young one, he says. This is shown in the opening scene of the trailer as Singham alias none other than Ajay Devgn enters and clarifies the same through mouthing a dialogue Ek baccha hai jo and this kid grows up to be the Simmba Ranveer Singh.

Rohit seemed to be revealing one secret after the other, Karan is also a part of the song, which has both Ranveer and Golmaal team.

The lead actor Ranveer Singh praising Rohit said, I have been a huge fan of Rohit saab for a long time. He is one of the greatest commercial filmmakers. I have been a huge fan of Singham franchise as well.

Adding further Ranveer said, I had been waiting to be a part of his film but it's not easy to get into his films. You have to earn the right to be in his world. Then, we did the Chings advertisement together and I thought I would do everything that it takes to be a part of his film.

Ranveer feels his entire acting caliber has been exploited by Rohit. He confirms, Rohit sir has juiced me out in this film. In the first installment of the franchise itself, I have explored all layers. There's emotion, there's action.

Ranveer truthfully expresses Deepikas reaction after watching the trailer. She came. Rohit sir showed her some rushes on my birthday. She doesn't say much. She never speaks much. When the rushes ended, she looked at me and said, "Bada hot lag raha hai," recollected Ranveer.

Ranveer on being the A lister actor/star that he is today says, Whatever has happened in my life, I couldn't even dream about. I just wanted to be an actor. I had never imagined what's happening with me. The kind of people I worked with, to get launched by Aditya Chopra... All this was beyond my wild imagination.

Ranveer may have never he could actually be the top most actor but he dreamt in just 6 months relationship with Deepika that she would be the mother of his children. He confirmed the same saying, I met her in 2012. Within six months, I knew she was the one, who would become the mother of our children.

Ask what next after marriage to Deepika and Ranveer cheekily says, I have already become boyfriend of the millennium. Now, I am working towards becoming husband of the millennium.Karan Johar may be rather prolific in churning out film after film at the turnstiles, but even the filmmakers smooth way of functioning has hit a roadblock with one film  Drive  starring Sushant Singh Rajput and Jacqueline Fernandez.

The Sushant and Jacqueline starrer is an official remake of the Hollywood film Drive, starring actors Ryan Gosling and Cary Mulligan. The film Drive was about a mysterious Hollywood stuntman and mechanic moonlights as a getaway driver and finds himself in trouble when he helps out his neighbour.

Tarun Mansukhani has directed the remake, but the producer Karan has not found enough drive to accelerate on the films release plans. The film was to initially release in 2017. But Karan was not happy and wanted certain portions re-shot because it became a rather dark film. Then the plan was to release it in the middle of this year and after shuffling the release dates twice, the film was moved again, says a trade source.

Actress Jacqueline Fernandez, however, clarifies on the progress of the film stating that there is some more shooting going on at the moment on Drive, a year and a half after the original plan of release. So far, we are shooting the patchwork on the film. We are making sure that the film releases early next year, she confirms.

In the meantime, Jacqueline has also given an update on the remake of the Kannada film Kirik Party. I am very excited to be able to work with Kartik Aaryan. We have a fantastic director on board. We are in the scripting process. I saw the Kannada version and it was unbelievable. I enjoyed it thoroughly. When I saw it, I was very excited and said that this was definitely a film I wanted to do, says Jacqueline.Actors Venkatesh and Chiranjeevi are now regular visitors to Visakhapatnam but no, they are not going there to shoot for a film. The secret is their newfound love for a wellness centre they have discovered in the city.

It was Venkatesh who discovered the wellness centre situated near Ramanaidu studios in Vizag and soon became a regular. He likes it so much now that he visits often, a source said, adding that what helps is its proximity. The actors brother Suresh Babu too now visits the place and is all praise for it.

Actually they started a hotel there, but it didnt run and so they decided to start a wellness centre, the source said adding that actor Chiru who has visited the place a few times has also made it his regular go-to spot for wellness. While T-wood actors usually prefer to visit Bengalurus wellness centres, they have now switched to their new find in Vizag.On Saturday, when the woman was going to the police station the two men once again stopped and poured kerosene on her, after which they set her ablaze. (Representational Image)

Sitapur: Crimes against women continue unabated in Uttar Pradesh where a woman was set on fire by two men who had harassed her.

The incident took place in Uttar Pradeshs Sitapur on Saturday when the 28-year-old woman was on her way to the police station for a third time, two days after being harassed, to file a complaint. She was turned back by cops earlier.

The woman has suffered about 60 per cent burns and is battling for life at a hospital in Sitapur.

The two accused have been identified as Rajesh and Ramu and have been arrested on Sunday. Cases have filed against them for sexual assault and attempt to murder.

According to reports, the woman and the accused are Dalits.

Three policemen including the station house officer (SHO) and the head constable have also been suspended for negligence, the police said.

Police said the woman was on her way to her in-laws house in the neighbouring village on November 29 when she was obstructed by two men who were brothers.

They even passed lewd remarks and tried to molest her. The woman managed to escape and rushed to police station with the help of locals but the policemen on duty sent her away, she said.

The woman arrived at her in-laws house and shared the ordeal after which her family informed police about the incident. A police team arrived at their home but left after asking the family to lodge a written complaint in the same police station from where she was turned back.

On Saturday, when the woman was going to the police station the two men once again stopped and poured kerosene on her, after which they set her ablaze.

The womans face and the upper part of her body are burnt.

In her statement, the woman named the accused and narrated the inaction of policemen.Hyderabad: A 25-year-old man from Hassannagar in Rajendranagar was booked for reportedly attending to natures call near a place of worship. The incident took place on Sunday, after locals caught the man in the act and lodged a complaint.

The accused was booked under Sections 295 and 295 A of IPC and he would be remanded to judicial custody, said Rajendranagar police.

At about 12 am on Sunday, one Siraj, 25, of Hassannagar was seen urinating at a place of worship in NTR Nagar. The locals saw this and handed him over to his family members.

They then lodged a complaint with the police stating that Siraj has done this thrice earlier. He was counselled by elders and asked to not repeat it, but he did not change his behaviour, and intentionally insulted the feelings of the people.

Following the complaint, the Rajendranagar police booked a case against the accused under sections 295 and 295  A of IPC, for the probe.

Rajendranagar sub-inspector Mohammed Majid Ali said The sections booked against the accused are non-bailable. He will be nabbed and produced before the court for the judicial remand.

The police who registered a case and took up investigations apprehended M. Nageswara Rao and his cousin N. Nageswara Rao on suspicion and questioned them.

Hyderabad: The police on Monday arrested a pair of cousins for the murder of a 57-year-old man at Vanasthalipuram four days ago.

Police identified the victim as N. Prasad Rao, a resident of Almasguda, who was working in a private firm, while his wife K. Mary Leela had retired as assistant manager with the TSRTC. Prasad Rao used to go to a shop near his house, owned by his distant relative M. Nageswara Rao wo ran a milk vending unit.

On November 18, Prasad visited the house of M. Nageswara Rao. At that time, police said, M. Nageswara Rao noticed Prasad Rao was moving closely with his wife. This led M. Nageswara Rao to suspect his wifes infidelity and he also developed grudge against Prasad.

He shared his concerns with his cousin N. Nageswara Rao and asked him to watch the movements of Prasad and his wife.

About 10 days later, early on the morning of November 29, Prasads body was found abandoned at Vanasthalipuram. The police who registered a case and took up investigations apprehended M. Nageswara Rao and his cousin N. Nageswara Rao on suspicion and questioned them.

During the investigation, it was revealed that Prasad had last visited the shop of M. Nageswara Rao, and went missing from there. The Nageswara Rao cousins were questioned and they confessed to having killed Prasad over his alleged misbehaviour with M. Nageswara Raos wife.

Rachakonda police commissioner Mahesh Bhagwat said When Prasad visited M. Nageswara Raos shop, he was given alcohol by the two cousins. While consuming liquor, they attacked Prasad and strangled him. They also took away a gold chain, ring, two phones and a wallet containing some cash and threw them in the dustbin. They dumped the body at a nearby shop to evade suspicion.'Amit Shah, please tell what have you done in India in the last four and a half years? Is there something that you wanted to do, but could not?' AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi said. (Photo: ANI)

Hyderabad: Hitting back at Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Sunday said that the former is less concerned about his state and is trying to spread hatred in Telangana ahead of assembly elections.

Speaking at a rally in Malakpet, Owaisi said, "Bharatiya Janata Party's model is 'Hindu-Muslim'. Their model is that Amit Shah comes to various events and only speaks about Asaduddin Owaisi and AIMIM as he does not have anything else to say. Amit Shah, please tell what have you done in India in the last four and a half years? Is there something that you wanted to do, but could not?"

He added, "Their Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister has come to Hyderabad. He is saying that if BJP will form the government in Telangana then they will throw Asaduddin Owaisi out like Nizam. I want to ask him since when did he start talking all this? Does this nation only belong to you and not me? Will they throw us out of this country if we speak against BJP, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, criticise his politics and talk against Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh?"

Further criticising Adityanath, Owaisi said, "You are zero in history and don't know dates. If you can't read then ask somebody who can. If you were educated, then you would have known that Nizam didn't leave Hyderabad. When India fought against China, then he was the one who sold his gold."

Owaisi's statement came after Yogi Adityanath earlier on Sunday said that if the BJP comes to power in Telangana, then Owaisi will have to flee from the state as Nizam left Hyderabad.

Also Read: If BJP forms govt in T'gana, Asaduddin Owaisi will have to flee: UP CM

Addressing an election rally at Tandur, Vikarabad in Telangana, Adityanath said, "If BJP comes to power in Telangana, I assure you Owaisi will have to flee from Telangana the same way as Nizam was forced to flee from Hyderabad. BJP will give security to all but will not allow anyone to create anarchy."

Telangana Assembly elections are scheduled for December 7 while the counting of votes will take place on December 11.'I submit only one thing... KCR is Telangana people's agent and not (an) agent of anybody...,' the caretaker chief minister said. (Photo: PTI)

Hyderabad: TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao said Monday he was only an "agent" of the people of Telangana and not anyone else's, amid accusations that he was the BJP's "B team" and also the Congress' "agent".

"He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) says KCR is Sonia Gandhi's agent. Rahul Gandhi comes and says KCR is (the) 'B' team of Narendra Modi. Then, whose agent am I ? What is this story of agents?" Rao asked.

"I submit only one thing... KCR is Telangana people's agent and not (an) agent of anybody...," the caretaker chief minister said, while addressing a rally at Kodad town in Suryapet district. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday alleged that Modi, Rao and AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi were "one" and urged the people of Telangana to not be "fooled by them".

He also claimed that the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) was the BJP's "B team" and Rao "operates" as Modi's "Telangana Rubber Stamp". "Owaisi's, AIMIM is the BJP's 'C' team, whose role is to split the anti BJP/KCR vote," the Congress chief tweeted.

Modi had last Tuesday called the Congress and the TRS two sides of the same coin. Addressing a rally in Telangana, he recalled Rao's "apprenticeship" with the Congress and claimed they were playing a "friendly match" in the Assembly polls.

At the Kodad rally, Rao also criticised Modi's alleged comments that there is a power shortage in Telangana. The caretaker chief minister claimed that the country had been able to use only 30,000 thousand million cubic feet (tmc) of water though 70,000 tmc of water is available. "40,000 TMC water is merging with the sea."

He claimed that Telangana is the only state in the country which gives 24-hour free power to farmers. "Narendra Modiji, your government is there in 19 states. Are you giving 24 hours free power to farmers in any of the states?" Rao asked.

Telangana goes to polls on Friday.According to Navy sources, the state has around 14000 accounted boats but the unaccounted figure stands at least 6000 alone. (Representational Image)

Kolkata: The Indian Navy's ambitious coastal battery project at Sagar Island in the Bay of Bengal has been back on track as a land of 11 acres has been identified in the delta region and the land acquisition process is underway though the project's concept and shape have been changed from a permanent to a temporary one and from static to mobile. This was informed by Naval Officer-in-Charge (West Bengal) Commodore Suprobho K De on Monday.

"The coastal battery project was never closed in principle. It is still underway. Progress about the project became a bit slow earlier somehow. The entire concept is now about having a temporary and mobile infrastructure for firing missles. It is now conceived as a mobile coastal battery," he said at INS Netaji Subhas in Hastings on the eve of the Navy Day celebrations.

Commodore De elaborated, "We were looking for a land of around 11 acres to set up a naval base from where Brahmos missles can be fired. The land has been identified. The process of take it over is on. We have received clearance from the environment ministry. It was earlier pending. However the transport link to the proposed base is essential to rush a vehicle, carrying a missile for firing, from the city. If good roads are built it will be helpful for the project."

He added that a status report would be sent to the Eastern Naval Command Headquarters in Vizag which would be submitted to the ministry of defence through the Navy headquarters in New Delhi. A land-based coastal batteries is built to perform a defensive role against attacking enemy warships and aircrafts, seaward defence of harbour, air defence of port and surveillance and monitoring of the country's coastline.

Post 26/11 Mumbai terror strike the Indian Navy embarked upon setting up the coastal battery project with a radar system 2013 onwards to tackle the sudden rise in naval acquisitions by Bangladesh and foreign ships' movements.

On the Chinese ships suspicious movements in the Indian Ocean Commodore De explained, "Navy is entrusted for ensuring maritime security to a nation. China is developing their navy for their security. We also have our resources and plan. We have measures to monitor ships coming and going. We have methods to take action as long as you know a ship's activity and intention. So it is not that we do not know what is happening in the Indian Ocean."

On the Automatic Identification System (AIS)-based registration of the boats for coastal security Commodore De stated that around 70 per cent of boats in West Bengal have been AIS registered and fitted with transponders. According to Navy sources, the state has around 14000 accounted boats but the unaccounted figure stands at least 6000 alone.Former CM Siddaramaiah gives a compensation cheque to the kin of the farmer who had committed suicide, at Hireboodihala in Badami, Bagalkote district.

Hubballi: Terming the growing clamour for the construction of Ram Mandir at Ayodhya as a political drama engineered by the BJP, former chief minister Siddaramaiah said that it is being raised by the saffron party with an eye on the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Addressing mediapersons in Nilagund village of Bagalkote district on Sunday, he said the BJP is trying to gain political mileage by keeping the issue alive and has no intention of resolving the dispute early. Questioning BJP leaders on why they had kept silent in the last four years after coming to power at the Centre, he said that the NDA government should have found a solution to the Mandir issue by this time if it had the political will.

Lashing out at State BJP president B.S. Yeddyurappa, he said that the coalition government is not worried about the protest being planned by the Opposition during the coming winter session of the Legislature in Belagavi. He also said that the Congress will mobilize two lakh farmers if the BJP stages a protest when the session starts.

Reacting to queries on the Cabinet expansion, he said a decision will be taken at the co-ordination committee meeting to be held on December 5. Maintaining that Congress legislators have not exerted any pressure for early Cabinet expansion, he said no MLA has been neglected in the party.

Rebutting the prediction of BJP leaders that the coalition government will collapse after Cabinet expansion, he said that the dream of Yeddyurappa and K.S. Eshwarappa of seizing power will never come true.

Training his guns on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Congress leader alleged the PM has been speaking against corruption without enforcing the Lok Pal bill. Assuring that pending bills of sugarcane growers will be settled soon, he said that the crushing operations of cane will be undertaken by procuring cane from farmers at the fair and remunerative price. The former CM also justified the government's move to cancel the Hampi Utsav. More than hundred taluks have been declared drought-hit. Due to this, a decision has been taken to cancel Hampi Utsav this year. A similar decision was taken during my tenure as CM, Siddaramaiah said.

Responding to a query on the row over construction of Vishnuvardhan memorial, he said that the government is planning to erect the memorial in Mysuru as per the the wishes of Bharati Vishnuvardhan and the final decision will be taken in this regard after a discussion with Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy.

The Congress leader also visited the house of debt-ridden farmer Shivangouda Udagouda who had committed suicide in Nilagund village and handed over compensation of Rs 5 lakh to his family members.Bengaluru: The prestigious Hampi Utsav will not be shelved because of the drought in the state as was speculated earlier with Water Resources Minister D.K.Shivakumar announcing that the coalition government is exploring the possibility of holding the festival for a day.

Earlier, Mr Shivakumar had said that the government might put off the celebration due to the drought. This evoked an angry reaction from the opposition BJP, which wondered how the government had funds to celebrate Tipu Jayanthi and not Hampi Utsav. The party had also warned that party workers will go to the people with begging bowls to raise funds for Hampi Utsav.

Replying to this, Mr Shivakumar clarified that he had never said the government had no funds and added that the BJP members instead of begging on the streets, could allocate some money from their legislator's fund for the purpose. Speaking to reporters here on Monday, the minister said that earlier, due to the severe drought, the government had decided to put Hampi Utsav on hold for a year.

The prestigious Hampi Utsav will not be shelved because of the drought in the state as was speculated earlier with Water Resources Minister D.K. Shivakumar announcing that the coalition government is exploring the possibility of holding the festival for a day.

Earlier, Mr Shivakumar had said that the government might put off the celebration due to the drought. This evoked an angry reaction from the opposition BJP, which wondered how the government had funds to celebrate Tipu Jayanti and not Hampi Utsav. The party also warned that party workers will go to the people with begging bowls to raise funds for Hampi Utsav.

Replying to this, Mr Shivakumar clarified that he had never said the government had no funds and added that the BJP members instead of begging on the streets, could allocate some money from their legislator's fund for the purpose.

Speaking to reporters here on Monday, the minister said that earlier, due to the severe drought, the government had decided to put Hampi Utsav on hold for a year after officials said they were busy with drought relief work but had now reconsidered the decision.

Mr. Shivakumar also criticized the BJP for claiming that he was behind the leaking of an audio clipping on attempts to dethrone the H.D. Kumaraswamy government.

On Sunday, newly elected Ballari Congress MP Mr V.S. Ugrappa had said that the government had no intention of shelving the Utsav, started by former Deputy CM late M.P. Prakash and had also said that the chief minister would announce the rescheduled dates.Chennai: The Madras high court has imposed a cost of Rs 25,000 on a litigant, for suppressing material facts in his Public Interest Litigation.

A division bench comprising Justices M.Sathyanarayanan and P.Rajamanickam imposed the cost on a 67-year-old G.Rajaraman, a retired Inspector of Police, Puducherry.

In his PIL, he sought a direction to the Chief Secretary and DGP, Puducherry to implement the orders passed by the Police Complaints Authority, Puducherry and to take necessary action against the erring police officers as directed by the Police Complaints Authority (PCA).

The bench said it was a well settled position of law that the Public Interest Litigant was not an adversary litigant. However, the Public Interest Litigant who invokes the original jurisdiction of this court was expected to come with clean hands. This court was also expected to test the genuineness of Public Interest Litigants. Though the petitioner claims that he was the general secretary of Corruption Abolition Organization has not disclosed any material facts as to his involvement in 13 criminal cases. The details were given in the court, the bench pointed out.

The bench said it was not for the petitioner to chose the relevant factors and was expected to state all the facts which may be favourable or against him. Unfortunately, the petitioner has failed to disclose the relevant material facts as to his alleged antecedents. Therefore, this court was of the considered opinion that he no longer prosecute the petition or a PIL and having suppressed the material facts, this court was inclined to impose a cost. Accordingly, Rs 25,000 as cost was imposed, to be payable to the Puducherry Legal Services Authority by January 10, 2019. However, taking into consideration of the fact as to the alleged non-implementation of the orders passed by the Police Complaints Authority, this court would like to keep the PIL pending and Superintendent of Police (HQ), Puducherry was directed to file supporting documents as to the action taken against the officers in respect of the orders passed by the Police Complaints Authority for initiation of disciplinary proceedings, the bench added and posted the matter to January 10, 2019.Islamabad: Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday said his Kartarpur corridor decision was not a googly as controversially claimed by foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

In a meeting with senior journalists and television anchors, the Prime Minister said his government had failed Indias plan to spread hatred. We have opened Kartarpur corridor to botch Indias plan. The motive behind it was never to deceive anyone. It is not a googly but a straight decision, he said.

Mr Khan added, We are determined to solve Kashmir issue. This issue can be resolved if both the government wishes to do it.

Pakistan earlier blamed India of deliberate attempts to make the Kartarpur corridor controversial. Foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi lashed out at his Indian counterpart Shushma Swaraj for dragging his comment towards Sikh sentiments calling it a deliberate attempt to misrepresent and mislead.

The exchange of harsh words started after Mr Qureshi, in his address to the ceremony following the Kartarpur corridor groundbreaking, said that Mr Khan had put India in a conundrum with the move to open the Kartarpur border corridor. The Prime Minster bowled a googly at India by opening the Kartarpur border corridor.

The words were not taken light-heartedly in India with its minister of external affairs Shushma Swaraj snapping back in a tweet saying that India was not trapped by Pakistans googlies.

Mr Foreign Minister of Pakistan  Your googly remarks in a dramatic manner has exposed none but YOU. This shows that you have no respect for Sikh sentiments. You only play googlies, she stated in a tweet. Our two Sikh ministers went to Karta-rpur Sahib to offer prayers in the Holy Gurudwara, the minister added.Vehicles set on fire by a mob during a protest over the alleged illegal slaughter of cattle, in Bulandshahr on Monday. (PTI)

Lucknow: A police inspector and a youth were killed on Monday as a rampaging mob protesting alleged illegal cow slaughter torched a police post in Bulandshahr and clashed with police, which opened fire, officials said.

Additional director general (Meerut zone) Prashant Kumar said the protesters from Mahaw village and nearby areas pelted stones on the police and indulged in arson, setting ablaze several vehicles and Chingarwathi Police Chowki.

The police inspector was killed in clashes with the protesters in Syana in Bulandshahr district. Two persons were also injured in police firing one of whom, Sumit, died later. The police clashed with people who had blocked a road in Syana while protesting against illegal animal slaughter. According to reports, cow carcass was found in the fields in a village on Monday morning and as the people gathered, the police reached the spot.

Subodh Kumar Singh

Angry mobs attacked the cops who later fired in the air. The protesters torched the Chingarwathi police outpost and set several vehicles, including a police van, on fire and pelted stones at the cops. The inspector who was killed in the clashes has been identified as Subodh Kumar Singh.

In the visuals shown by a television channel, the inspector is seen lying unconscious on the jeep and none of the constables were present at the spot which implies that the cops had run away when he was hit by a brick.

More than half-a-dozen cops have been injured. ADG (law and order) Anand Kumar said in Lucknow that the police received information of the carcass in the field when the crowd became violent. The local people, around 400, put the carcass in a trolley and blocked the road. Later they became violent, pelted stones and even opened fire at the police, he said.

An inquiry has also been ordered into the incident. Local people claimed that senior officials, including district magistrate Anuj Jha, reached the spot late which aggravated the situation.New Delhi: With Indias external agency RAW embroiled in the murky and egregious CBI vs CBI battle, the government is keen to appoint an untainted officer as the new head of the organisation.

The terms of RAW chief A.K. Dhasmana and IB head Rajiv Jain ends on December 31. Shockingly, Samant Goel, a 1984-batch IPS officer from the Punjab cadre, whose is supposedly close to CBI special director Rakesh Asthana is a front-runner for the RAW chiefs post along with Mr K. Ilango of the Jammu and Kashmir cadre, who was recalled from Colombo in 2015 amid a huge diplomatic fracas. Both are special secretaries with RAW.

Sources close to developments at the highest decision-making level said that the winner should be Mr Illango in a fair, merit-based selection but with a lot of dirty rumours churning around it could be anyones game.

Sources said, Dhasmana is trying hard to hang around, but with the RAW underbelly exposed during the CBI episode, his Plan A for succession was Samant Goel, which is now unlikely. Plan B is to promote Vivek Jauhari over and ahead of Illango and R. Kumar, both highly competent officers but not deemed conducive to the northerners lobby inside the agency.

Mr Goels name surfaced in the bribery case against Mr Asthana. Indias deep state headed by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval will be giving his inputs on the same.

Mr Arvind Kumar, a 1984-batch Bihar cadre IPS officer who is currently a special director in the IB, and Madhya Pradesh police chief R.K. Shukla are among the shoo-ins for the IB chiefs job.

In the CBI vs CBI case, it has been alleged that Mr Goel tried to dilute the Moin Qureshi money-laundering and corruption investigation with the help of alleged middlemen and the brothers Manoj and Somesh Prasad, who are in custody in the Asthana bribery case.

Incidentally the Prasads father Dineshwar was a senior RAW officer. The agency claims to have intercepted telephone conversations and WhatsApp messages suggesting a link between Mr Goel and the brothers. RAWs image has taken a beating after their involvement in the CBI fiasco.

Transition to IB could be smoother

It needs to be mentioned here that Mr Goel is considered close to Punjab chief minister capt. Amarinder Singh, who wants to appoint him as DGP of the state.

Mr Goel is playing up his role in countering Khalistani propaganda in Europe against India to pitch for the top job.

Mr Ilango, an old RAW hand, was recalled from his posting as RAWs Colombo station chief in early 2015 at the behest of the Sri Lankan government, which accused him of trying to help the Opposition oust then President Mahinda Rajapaksa. In a bloodless coup, Mr Illango reportedly was the architect behind the fall of the all-powerful Chinese-leaning Mr Rajapaksa. The transition to IB could be much smoother. Mr Arvind Kumar is considered an expert on Kashmir with specialisation in counter-terrorism and is the favourite to bag the IB boss's job.Around 500 additional policemen were deployed under the direct supervision of the Thoothukudi district SP, Mr. Murali Ramba.

Thoothukudi: Around 300 anti-Sterlite agitators thronged the Thoothukudi district collectors office premises condemning the expert committee report on Sterlite copper smelter plant issue.

They came down heavily upon the Edappadi K. Palaniswami-led state administration for its hidden agenda with the Sterlite administration and accused the government of deliberately issuing a weak closure order, according to which the company was sealed on May 28. It was a deliberate attempt of the state government to control the peoples wrath against the company, said Russel Retinam of the CPI(M)-affiliated trade union, CITU.

Making the same accusation against the state government, anti-Sterlite activist Krishnamoorthy of the Anti-Sterlite Tamil Federation added, had the Tamil Nadu government been honest in its intention to close down the copper smelter plant, it would have taken a policy decision. At least now, the Chief Minister should pass a cabinet resolution to instill hope in the minds of people.

He added the Anti-Sterlite Tamil Federation planned to stage a fast here on December 5 (Wednesday), two days before the next hearing of the case on December 7 at the principal bench of the National Green Tribunal, New Delhi.

The protestors led by NGO Makkal Athikaram members, advocate Hariragavan, Makesh and Rajesh demanded that a new legislation be enacted by the Tamil Nadu Assembly for permanent closure of the copper smelter plant in this town.

The anti-Sterlite protestors also thronged the district collectorate with the same demand on Monday morning, but in three separate groups to uphold the identities of their respective organisations.

In view of the protest, police bandobast was beefed up in and around the district collectors office. Around 500 additional policemen were deployed under the direct supervision of the Thoothukudi district SP, Mr. Murali Ramba. Two additional superintendents of police from Tirunelveli and Virudhunagar districts along with nine DSPs were deployed to monitor the situation. No private vehicle was allowed inside the Thoothukudi district collectorate and people in groups were also stopped at the entrance.

People coming to meet the officials on the weekly grievance redress meeting too were frisked. Media persons too were not spared from the security check. Police were extra cautious so as to prevent a recurrence of the May 22 situation, according to a police officer.Vijayawada: Tribal farmers who grow the now globally famous Araku Coffee are truly going places. After its thunderous debut in Paris a few months ago, Araku Coffee has become very well-known and its cultivators are being recognised and celebrated throughout the world.

In yet another global recognition, Araku farmers were recognised as Landscape Heroes by Germany-based Global Landscapes Forum (GLF), which is a multi-stakeholder platform to create productive, prosperous, equitable and climate-resilient landscapes. GLF is supported by the German government.

Araku farmers trounced nominations from across the world and stood at the top garnering maximum votes. Paris-based Livelihoods Funds, an impact investment fund backed by private companies had nominated Araku Farmers to the GLF landscape heroes contest.

The four other runners-up are from Guatemala, Brazil, Tanzania and Peru. There were nominations from 38 countries from across 6 continents. In the coming months, GLF will be working with the top five story authors and landscape heroes to explore in-depth and showcase their ongoing work through articles, videos, photography and more.

It is again a proud moment as the Adivasi Araku farmers making @arakucoffee and transforming the landscape of the region were elected #Landscape Heroes at #GLFBonn2018. @GlobalLF Thank you @livelih00ds for taking the story there and for supporting us @naandi_india tweeted Naandi Foundation, CEO, Manoj Kumar, who had founded brand Araku Coffee and was instrumental in taking Araku Coffee global.

Between December 1 and 2, more than 1,000 representatives of the government, international, non-governmental and indigenous organisations, activists, finance, private sector, youth, scientists came together gathered at the World Conference Centre in Bonn, Germany, to connect, learn and share ideas and experiences on how to move from commitment to action towards reaching sustainable landscapes. Amidst such a gathering, Araku farmers were announced Landscape Heroes.

Over the last two months, more than 115,000 people visited the GLF Bonn 2018 website and around 2,40,00,000 people were reached on social media.

Paris-based Livelihoods Funds senior partnership manager Maribel Narvaez Gallardo presented the incredible work done by Araku Farmers to restore their valley in India.

Ten years ago, with the support of Naandi Foundation, the Livelihoods Carbon Fund, an impact investment fund backed by private companies, and Indias Mahindra Group, Araku farmers started restoring their most precious wealth: Their forest. With hard work, courage and determination, they have already planted more than 10 million forest, fruit and coffee trees that have given a new lease of life to their region, Nishal Ramdoo and David Hogg who presented the Araku Farmers story said.

The landscape projects of the Araku farmers, Naandi and the Livelihoods Carbon Fund will enable the restoration of 24,000 hectares and impact 170,000 villagers. They will also contribute to climate action by sequestrating upwards of 3.5 million tons of CO2 (carbon credits certified by Verra).

Japanese-inspired Moka Pot to debut in India in December

A coffee pot called Moka Pot, designed by Norwegian studio Anderssen & Voll as an accessory to Araku Coffee encouraged by the Naandi Foundation that had promoted Araku Coffee globally is being hailed throughout the world.

The Moka Pot is expected to debut in India in the second week of December. And the excitement is clearly palpable. Mahindra Group Executive Chairman, Anand Mahindra, who has been behind the success story of Araku Coffee in Paris has tweeted about the Moka Pot.

A coffee pot called Moka Pot, designed by Norwegian studio Anderssen & Voll as an accessory to Araku Coffee encouraged by the Naandi Foundation that had promoted Araku Coffee globally is being hailed throughout the world.

This is no small achievement. A brand of coffee cultivated by Adivasi farmers goes premium and global and now has design recognition and endorsement for its accessories in a leading international design magazine. This is the stuff of an IIM case study. Bravo Manoj! tweeted Anand Mahindra.

Naandi Foundations (that had created the Araku Coffee brand), CEO, Manoj Kumar tweeted, Our homage to the hard work of the Adivasis and the pulchritude of the @arakucoffee region: The Moka Pot, designed by Anderssen & Voll is being hailed in France! Apart from brisk sales, it is featured in the latest AD magazine! Coming to India 13-12-18. @anandmahindra @kris sg.

This designer coffee pot has a cheery yellow hue. The yellow coffee maker is paired with the solid marble hot plate for aesthetic purposes, as it emphasizes the sculptural elements of the pot. The classic tiered coffee maker is inspired by traditional Japanese teapots.

Espen Voll explains the water and coffee grounds rise from the basic solid of the cylinder and transform into coffee in the more carefully shaped top part.

The visual flow of the designer coffee pot was intentionally crafted, as the aluminium bottom turns to yellow enamel and then polished wood.Chennai: MDMK chief Vaiko and leaders of other political parties were detained by the police on Monday for attempting to picket the Raj Bhavan here condemning the delay in the release of all seven life convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case and seeking their early release.

CPI state secretary R. Mutharasan, leaders of DK and VCK, K Veeramani and Thol Thirumavalavan were among the others detained by the police when they staged the protest near Raj Bhavan, the official residence of the Governor, said police.

The agitation in which the major opposition parties, including the DMK, CPI, CPI (M),VCK participated, brought the traffic to a standstill. The Raj Bhavan picketing agitation was jointly organised by MDMK and the Dravidar Kazhagam.

They protesters claimed that Governor Banwarilal Purohit had not taken a decision so far on the September 9 recommendation of the state government submitted to him to release the convicts. The resolution was passed by the state cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami.

Vaiko alleged that the Governor had not accepted the state government's recommendation though he had given his nod for the release of three AIADMK men convicted and sentenced to life term in the case related to burning of three women students in the year 2000.

The MDMK chief warned of intensifying the protests against Purohit if the seven convicts: Murugan, Santhan, Perarivalan, Ravichandran, Robert Payas, Jayakumar and Nalini, were not released immediately. Vaiko said the Governor should have ordered their release under Article 161 of the Constitution based on the State Cabinet resolution.

Vaiko, Veeramani, Thirumavalavan and Velmurugan and others who were arrested along with their supporters were later released.Hyderabad: The BJP is hoping to gain ground in the Secunderabad Cantonment constituency by playing the card of Central governments assistance in addressing issues. Much of the constituency falls under the defence ministry.

Minister for state for home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir, campaigned for the BJP on Sunday, laid out three assurances to address major issues. The minister participated in roadshows in Annanagar and Risala Bazaar in favour of party candidate Sri Ganesh, a former Congress leader.

Many of the people who are staying without pattas in the cantonment area would get proper land registration and recognition, the minister said.

He also promised that the strict building bye laws can be modified and relaxed with the introduction of single the window system.

The minister added, Candidates should get a chance to contest the Secunderabad Cantonment Board elections with their party symbols, which gives more transparency and accountability, like in the Pune cantonment. At present though candidates belong to political parties, the elections do not include party names.

There was no major takeaway for residents who were expecting some assurance on reopening roads that were closed by the Local Military Authority, which is affecting connectivity for thousands of civilians. Opening the roads has been one of the major demands from the residents.kSupporters of BJP switch on torches on their phones in support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his speech at LB Stadium on Monday. (S. Surender Reddy)

Hyderabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi used his Assembly election campaign meeting to bat for the general elections scheduled for 2019. In an hour-long speech, he compared the progress India has witnessed in the four years under the NDA-led government to the two terms of the UPA government led by the Congress.

He called the Opposition at the Centre a remote-controlled party and BJP a peoples democratic party.

In four years, the BJP built 1.5 crore houses, the owners celebrated the last Diwali in their newly built homes. The UPA government in two full terms built only 17 lakh houses and in Telangana state, only 5,000 houses were constructed. There is a striking difference in the progress that the nation witnessed during the NDA and UPA governance, Modi said.

Comparing the past with the present, Mr Modi said, Atal Behari Vajpayee granted separate states like Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. These states progressed rapidly because of leadership and governance. But in Telangana, the state suffered in the last five years thanks to one family that has destroyed the state.

Telangana can only progress if there is a change in the government. There cannot be growth without development and the BJP is the only party with no selfish motive.

Political parties accuse me of spreading lies. In Telangana, the TRS government built 5000 houses when they promised to give shelter to one lakh people. NDA reduced the cost of LED lights, made data and call costs cheap, does anyone now give a missed call? The BJP government gave a boost to the start-up industry in India, loans no longer need a list of guarantees, he added.

Under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which was rejected in Telangana, 3 lakh people who were suffering from critical health issues were benefited and have been able to receive treatment in corporate hospitals. Medium scale businessmen have been sanctioned loans of up to Rs 5 lakh.

Hyderabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called the TRS of Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao the B team of the Congress. Congress president Rahul Gandhi has called the TRS the B team of the BJP.

Let me once again remind you of the Karnataka elections. Rahul Gandhi then called JDS the B team of the BJP, but after the election the nation saw the JDS join hands with the Congress to form government though the BJP was the single largest party, Mr Modi told a packed LB Stadium on Monday

The same episode will repeat in Telangana. Rahul Gandhi is calling TRS as the BJPs B team, but the fact is KCR is working from the back door for the Congress as they want to block the entry of BJP in the state. They are two sides of the same coin, he said.

Mr Modi launched a scathing attack against the four non-BJP parties in the fray. He called the MIM, TD, Congress and the TRS as family parties and which are dangerous to peoples democracy.

KCR was born as a politician in the Congress, he became a Cabinet minister during the TD regime. He did his apprenticeship under Sonia madam, did he not touch the feet of Congress chief for granting a separate state? Rahul Gandhi joined by Nara Chandrababu Naidu have been abusing KCR and vice versa. The trio will forget that and join hands, the Prime Minister said.

Individually naming each party, Mr Modi said, The AIMIM is a family-controlled party, they draw funds from the people in the name of their surname. The TD was born to oppose the Congress, the party was established by N.T. Rama Rao to protect the interest of Telugu people, but today its chief has placed the party in the lap of the Telugu Desams enemy (referring to UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi). He has handed over the remote control.He appealed to the voters to use December 7 to demolish the family parties and vote the BJP to power.UTNOOR (ADILABAD): Caretaker minister K.T. Rama Rao on Monday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to touch an electricity cable in the state to know whether power was being supplied or not.

Mr Rama Rao was responding to Mr Modis claim that power supply was erratic in Telangana state during his visit to Nizamabad last week.

Mr Rama Rao asked Mr Modi to see whether power was being supplied or not while flying in his helicopter over Nizamabad. He was addressing a meeting in Utnoor in support of party candidate Rekha Naik contesting from Khanapur.

He said four parties - the Congress, TD, CPI and the TJS - had joined hands to bring down caretaker Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao.

He asked whether they wanted to bring him down because the government was implementing welfare schemes like Mission Bhagiratha, Rythu Bandhu farmer assistance scheme, KCR Kits for new mothers, Rythu Bima, Rs 1 lakh crop loan waiver, residential schools for all sections, pensions to various sections and disabled persons.

Mr Rama Rao said the TRS was neither the B team of the BJP as alleged by the Congress nor the B team of the Congress as the BJP claimed.

The TRS is the A team for the people of Telangana unlike the BJP and the Congress. Telangana people are the bosses for the TRS and its leaders, Mr Rama Rao said.

Mr Rama Rao asked the Opposition why they were protesting over Pragathi Bhavan, the CMs residence, and said that AP Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu had constructed a house in Hyderabad instead of at Amaravati.Hyderabad: A saffron wave engulfed the LB stadium, the packed enclosure reverberating with slogans for BJP mascot and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose tall cutouts dominated the venue.

Mr Modi was to address a campaign meeting at the stadium, his second visit to the state for the December 7 elections. Youth, women, men and children came saffron-clad to match the partys colour. The party asked the activists to switch on their mobile phone lights to express their support for the BJP which the crowd did in full measure. This is seen as a metaphor of vikas (progress).

The saffron stage saw the bigwigs of the state BJP, a majority of whom are in the fray. Among them, TS BJP president K. Laxman poked fun at TRS president and Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao for spending most of his time at his Gajwel farmhouse and Pragati Bhavan, his official residence.

This apart, there was an announcement for a Rs 1,000 prize for a good stretch of road. What happened to the promise of making the Old City like Istanbul and Hyderabad like Dallas? Roads in Hyderabad have turned into death traps due to potholes. The BJP will give you Rs 1,000 per road if it is made pothole free Dr Laxman said.

There were no-holds-barred attacks on the MIM, whom the BJP leaders called a party of Razakars. They appealed to the people to vote for BJP and make free of the TRS and the MIM. If the BJP is elected to power, the lotus flag will fly high on Golconda, one leader said.

Ms Syed Shahezadi, who has been fielded against MIM legislator Akabaruddin Owasi from Chandrayangutta, won the support of the crowd easily. Ms Shahezadi said the MIM did not respect women. Why did the MIM oppose the triple talaq Bill? No woman candidate has been given a ticket. It is because the party does not respect women, she said.

The party leaders criticised Mr Rao for being inaccessible to the TRS MLAs, MPs and even the people who voted them to power. The BJP leaders ridiculed Mr Rao for his belief in astrology. KCRs lucky number is 6, so is his phone and car number. He takes commission of 6 per cent. The people should demolish his astrology-based governance, one leader said.

The campaign needed with a loud cheer when Mr Modi said, I will work shoulder to shoulder with you. Your dream is my responsibility, trust in me. You may hate the BJP or Modi, but dont put peoples democracy in danger.Hyderabad: TRS president and Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao said that Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi were planning to confine him to state politics.

Their games will not work. Once the elections are over, I will concentrate on the Centre, Mr Rao said while campaigning on Monday.

Reacting angrily to allegations on the TRS political leanings by Mr Gandhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr Rao told audiences in Madhira and Nalgonda: Modi said KCR is a Congress agent, Rahul Gandhi said KCR is a BJP agent. Yes I am an agent, but not to any political party. KCR is an agent of the Telangana people, KCR is an agent of Telangana farmers, KCR is an agent of the poor people of Telangana.

Mr Rao said Mr Modi and Mr Gandhi were criticising him because he was taking about the Federal Front against the BJP and the Congress.

At Nalgonda, Mr Rao said he was thinking of contesting from the Nalgonda constituency but the people of Gajwel had pressurised him not to change his constituency.

I have therefore decided to field Bhupal Reddy in my place, Mr Rao said and assured the people that they would get an underground drainage system, outer ring road and a solution to the drinking water problem.

Mr Rao said that his discussions held with late Prof A. Jayashankar about where to contest from, the Telangana idealogue had suggested the Mahabubnagar seat. Accordingly he had contested from the Mahbubnagar Lok Sabha constituency.

Mr Rao said that in the last 20 years the Nalgonda Assembly constituency had not developed.

He said that after the elections, he would come to the town along with ministers, the Chief Secretary and officials and fulfil the peoples demands.

Mr Rao said Mr Modi was making false propaganda about the power position in Telangana state. He said that there was a power problem in the Congress and TD regimes but the TRS government was providing uninterrupted power.Early last year, a little-known Chinese researcher turned up at an elite meeting in Berkeley, California, where scientists and ethicists were discussing a technology that had shaken the field to its core  an emerging tool for editing genes, the strings of DNA that form the blueprint of life.

The young scientist, He Jiankui, saw the power of this tool, called CRISPR, to transform not only genes but also his own career.

In visits to the United States, he sought out CRISPR pioneers such as Jennifer Doudna of the University of California, Berkeley, and Stanford Universitys Dr Matthew Porteus, and big thinkers on its use, like Stanford ethicist Dr William Hurlbut.

Last week, those shocked researchers watched as He hijacked an international conference they helped organise with an astonishing claim: He said he helped make the worlds first gene-edited babies, despite clear scientific consensus that making genetic changes that could be passed to future generations should not be attempted at this point.

US National Institutes of Health Director Francis Collins called Hes an experiment a misadventure of a major sort  starring a scientist who apparently believed that he was a hero. In fact, he crossed every line, scientifically and ethically.

But nobody stopped him. How can that be?

To be fair, scientists say theres no certain way to stop someone intent on monkeying with DNA, no matter what laws or standards are in place. CRISPR is cheap and easy to use  which is why scientists began to worry almost as soon as the technology was invented that something like this would happen.

And there is a long history in science and medicine of researchers launching experiments prematurely that were met with scorn or horror  some of which led to what are now common practices, such as in-vitro fertilisation.

Gene-editing for reproductive purposes is effectively banned in the US and most of Europe. In China, ministerial guidelines prohibit embryo research that violates ethical or moral principles.

It turns out He wasnt exactly tight-lipped about his goals. He pursued international experts at Stanford and Rice Universities, where he had done graduate studies work, and elsewhere, seeking advice before and during the experiment.

Should scientists who knew of Hes plans have spoken up? Could they have dissuaded him?

The answers arent clear.

It doesnt fall into the category of legal responsibility, but ethical responsibility, said Collins. He said that not speaking up doesnt seem like a scientist taking responsibility.

Chinas National Commission of Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences and Hes own university have said they were in dark and have since condemned him.

But three Stanford scientists  Hurlbut, Porteus and Hes former fellowship adviser, Stephen Quake  had extensive contact with him over the last few years. They and other scientists knew or strongly suspected that He intended to try to make genetically edited babies.

Some confidantes didnt think He would follow through; others raised concerns that were never heeded.

Stanford has not responded to an interview request.

Quake, a bioengineering professor, was one of the first to know about Hes ambition. Quake said he had met with He through the years whenever his former student was in town, and that He confided his interest a few years ago in editing embryos for live births to try to make them resistant to the AIDS virus.

Quake said he gave He only general advice and encouraged him to talk with mainstream scientists, to choose situations where theres a consensus that the risks are justified, to meet the highest ethical standards and to publish his results in a peer-reviewed journal.

My advice was very broad, Quake said.

Hurlbut thinks he first met He in early 2017, when he and Doudna, co-inventor of CRISPR, held the first of three meetings with leading scientists and ethicists to discuss the technology.

Somehow, he ended up at our meeting, Hurlbut said.

Since then, He returned several times to Stanford, and Hurlbut said he spent many hours talking with He about situations where gene editing might be appropriate.

Four or five weeks ago, Hurlbut said He came to see him again and discussed embryo gene editing to try to prevent HIV. Hurlbut said he suspected He had tried to implant a modified embryo in a womans womb.

I admonished him, he said. I didnt green-light his work. I challenged him on it. I didnt approve of what he was doing.

Porteus said he knew that He had been talking with Hurlbut and assumed Hurlbut discouraged the Chinese scientist. In February, He asked to meet with Porteus and told him he had gotten approval from a hospital ethics board to move forward.

I think he was expecting me to be more receptive, and I was very negative, Porteus said. I was angry at his naivete, I was angry at his recklessness.

Porteus said he urged He to go talk to your senior Chinese colleagues.

After that meeting, I didnt hear from him and assumed he would not proceed, Porteus said. In retrospect, I could have raised a hue and cry.

In a draft article about the gene-edited twin girls, which He planned to submit to journals, he thanked UC Berkeley biophysicist Mark DeWitt for editing the manuscript. DeWitt said he tried to dissuade He and disputed that he edited the paper. He said he saw the paper, but the feedback he offered was pretty general.

Hes claims, including that his work has resulted in a second pregnancy, cannot be independently confirmed and his work has not been published. He defended his actions last week at a gene-editing summit in Hong Kong.

In contrast, another US scientist said he not only encouraged He but played a large role in the project.

Michael Deem, a bioengineering professor at Rice University and Hes doctoral degree adviser, said he had worked with He since the scientist returned to China around 2012, and that he sits on the advisory boards and holds a small stake in Hes two genetics companies in Shenzhen. Deem defended Hes actions, saying the research team did earlier experiments on animals.

We have multiple generations of animals that were genetically edited and produced viable offspring, and a lot of research on unintended effects on other genes, Deem said. Deem also said he was present in China when some study participants gave their consent to try embryo gene editing.

Rice said it had no knowledge of Deems involvement and is now investigating.

So far most of the attention has focused on regulatory gaps in China.

But thats not the whole story, said Rosario Isasi, an expert on genomics law in the US and China at the University of Miami.

Lets focus on how it happened and why it happened, and the way it happened, said Isasi. How can we establish a system that has better transparency?

Theres no international governing body to enforce bioethics rules, but scientific bodies and universities can use other tools.

If someone breaks those rules, scientists can ostracise, journals can refuse to publish, employers can refuse to employ, funders can refuse to fund, said Hank Greely, a professor of law and genetics at Stanford.

Greely expects Hes experiment will have ripple effects in academia, whether or not regulators act. Universities are going to take a harder look at whats going on. This incident will put everyone on alert about any related research.

Of course, sometimes bad beginnings can turn into better endings.

In 1980, University of California, Los Angeles, professor Martin Cline was sanctioned for performing the first gene therapy on two women in Israel and Italy because he hadnt gotten approval to try it at UCLA.

Cline announced his work rather than publishing it in a scientific journal and faced criticism for trying genetic engineering on people when its safety and effectiveness hadnt yet been established in animals. Now gene therapy is established, although still fairly novel, treatment method.

Two years earlier, in 1978, Dr Robert Edwards was similarly denounced when he announced through the press the worlds first test tube baby, Louise Brown. The work later earned a Nobel Prize, and IFV has helped millions to have a child.

And this year, Louise Brown  mother of two sons, conceived in an old-fashioned way  turned 40.

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Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.The EU competition authoritys interest in local search services followed a complaint by US search and advertising company Yelp

EU antitrust regulators have asked Googles rivals if the internet search giant unfairly demotes local search competitors, according to a questionnaire seen by Reuters, a move which could lead to a fourth case against the Alphabet unit.

Google has been fined a total 6.76 billion euros (USD 7.7 billion) in the last 17 months for favouring its comparison shopping service and for using its dominant Android mobile operating system to reinforce its search engine market power.

The European Commission, which took the worlds most popular internet search engine to task for these two anti-competitive practices, is wrapping up a third case which involves Googles AdSense advertising service.

The EU competition authoritys interest in local search services followed a complaint by US search and advertising company Yelp and rivals in the travel, restaurant and accommodation industries.

It sent questionnaires to Google rivals last month, asking for details of the companys practices and the impact on competing services between January 2012 to December 2017.

Regulators also wanted to know if rivals experienced an impact in the operation of their local services as a result of major search algorithm changes by Google, including the introduction of its Panda 4.0 algorithm.

Introduced in 2014, this algorithm determines what appears in Google search results.

Companies were also asked if Googles introduction of the Local Universal or One Box had a substantial impact on their local search services.

Local Universal is targeted at hotel ads while One Box, which is information and images outlined in a box, is a tool for local businesses to get more visibility in Google search results.

The Commission asked if Google used content from rival local search services such as reviews on Local Universal or One Box.

Google had no immediate comment.

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Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.. Chinese officials say the data is used for analytics to improve public safety. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

When Shan Junhua bought his white Tesla Model X, he knew it was a fast, beautiful car. What he didnt know is that Tesla constantly sends information about the precise location of his car to the Chinese government.

Tesla is not alone. China has called upon all electric vehicle manufacturers in China to make the same kind of reports  potentially adding to the rich kit of surveillance tools available to the Chinese government as President Xi Jinping steps up the use of technology to track Chinese citizens.

I didnt know this, said Shan. Tesla could have it, but why do they transmit it to the government? Because this is about privacy.

More than 200 manufacturers, including Tesla, Volkswagen, BMW, Daimler, Ford, General Motors, Nissan, Mitsubishi and US-listed electric vehicle start-up NIO, transmit position information and dozens of other data points to government-backed monitoring centers, The Associated Press has found. Generally, it happens without car owners knowledge.

The automakers say they are merely complying with local laws, which apply only to alternative energy vehicles. Chinese officials say the data is used for analytics to improve public safety, facilitate industrial development and infrastructure planning, and to prevent fraud in subsidy programs.

But other countries that are major markets for electronic vehicles  the United States, Japan, across Europe  do not collect this kind of real-time data.

And critics say the information collected in China is beyond what is needed to meet the countrys stated goals. It could be used not only to undermine foreign carmakers competitive position, but also for surveillance  particularly in China, where there are few protections on personal privacy. Under the leadership of Xi Jinping, China has unleashed a war on dissent, marshalling big data and artificial intelligence to create a more perfect kind of policing, capable of predicting and eliminating perceived threats to the stability of the ruling Communist Party.

There is also concern about the precedent these rules set for sharing data from next-generation connected cars, which may soon transmit even more personal information.

Youre learning a lot about peoples day-to-day activities and that becomes part of what I call ubiquitous surveillance, where pretty much everything that you do is being recorded and saved and potentially can be used in order to affect your life and your freedom, said Michael Chertoff, who served as Secretary of the US Department of Homeland Security under President George W. Bush and recently wrote a book called Exploding Data.

Chertoff said global automakers should be asking themselves tough questions. If what youre doing is giving a government of a more authoritarian country the tools to have massive surveillance, I think then companies have to ask themselves, Is this really something we want to do in terms of our corporate values, even if it means otherwise forgoing that market?

The Shanghai Electric Vehicle Public Data Collecting, Monitoring and Research Center sits in a grey tower in suburban Jiading district. One floor up from the cafeteria, a wall-sized screen glows with dots, each representing a single vehicle coursing along Shanghais roads to create a massive real-time map that could reveal where people live, shop, work, and worship.

Click a dot at random, and up pops a window with a number that identifies each individual vehicle, along with its make and model, mileage and battery charge.

All told, the screen exhibits data from over 222,000 vehicles in Shanghai, the vast majority of them passenger cars.

We can provide a lot of data from consumers to the government to help them improve policy and planning, said Ding Xiaohua, deputy director of the center, a non-profit that is tightly aligned with and funded by the government.

According to national specifications published in 2016, electric vehicles in China transmit data from the cars sensors back to the manufacturer. From there, automakers send at least 61 data points, including location and details about battery and engine function to local centers like the one Ding oversees in Shanghai.

Data also flows to a national monitoring center for new energy vehicles run by the Beijing Institute of Technology, which pulls information from more than 1.1 million vehicles across the country, according to the National Big Data Alliance of New Energy Vehicles. The national monitoring center declined to respond to questions.

Those numbers are about to get much bigger. Though electric vehicle sales accounted for just 2.6 percent of the total last year, policymakers have said theyd like new energy vehicles to account for 20 percent of total sales by 2025. Starting next year, all automakers in China must meet production minimums for new energy vehicles, part of Beijings aggressive effort to reduce dependence on foreign energy sources and place itself at the forefront of a growing global industry.

The Chinese government has shown its interest in tracking vehicles.

The government wants to know what people are up to at all times and react in the quickest way possible, said Maya Wang, a senior China researcher for Human Rights Watch. There is zero protection against state surveillance.

Tracking vehicles is one of the main focuses of their mass surveillance, she added.

Last year, authorities in Xinjiang, a restive region in western China that has become a laboratory for Chinas surveillance state, ordered residents to install GPS devices so their vehicles could be tracked, according to official media. This summer the Ministry of Public Security, a police agency, began to roll out a system to track vehicles using windshield radio frequency chips that can identify cars as they pass roadside reading devices.

Ding insisted that the electric vehicle monitoring program is not designed to facilitate state surveillance, though he said data could be shared with government public security organs, if a formal request is made. The center said it has not shared information with police, prosecutors or courts, but has used the data to assist a government investigation of a vehicle fire.

There is a privacy firewall built into the system. The monitoring center has each cars unique vehicle identification number, but to link that number with the personal details of the car owner, it must go through the automaker  a step it has taken in the past. Chinese law enforcement can also independently link the vehicle identification number with the car owners personal information.

To speak bluntly, the government doesnt need to surveil through a platform like ours, Ding said. He said he believed the security forces must have their own ways to monitor suspects, as other governments do.

Many vehicles in the US, Europe and Japan transmit position information back to automakers, who feed it to car-tracking apps, maps that pinpoint nearby amenities and emergency services providers. But the data stops there. Government or law enforcement agencies would generally only be able to access personal vehicle data in the context of a specific criminal investigation and in the US would typically need a court order, lawyers said.

Automakers initially resisted sharing information with the Shanghai monitoring center; then the government made transmitting data a prerequisite for getting incentives.

The automakers consider the data a precious resource, said a government consultant who helped evaluate the policy and spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive issues. They gave you dozens of reasons why they cant give you the data. They give you dozens of excuses. Then we offer the incentives. Then they want to give us the data because its part of their profit.

There was concern that data pulled from electric vehicles might reveal proprietary information about, for example, how hybrids switch between gas and battery power, and eventually set automakers up for commercial competition with a Chinese government entity. As cars become more connected, carmakers are looking to tap new revenue streams built on data  a market McKinsey estimated could be worth USD 750 billion by 2030.

Ding said a Tesla executive came to Shanghai and grilled him about the rules. The first question is who are you, the second question is why you collect this data, and the third question is how to protect the privacy of the users, Ding said.

Tesla declined to comment.

Ding said confidentiality agreements bar the data center from sharing proprietary information.

Still, he is open about his commercial ambition. Hed like to wean the center from government funding and make money from the data, without infringing on anyones privacy or intellectual property. We have done some explorations, he said. But there is still a distance from truly monetising it.

The Chinese governments ability to grab data as it flows from cars gives its academics and policymakers an edge over competing nations. China tends to view technology development as a key competitive resource. Though global automakers have received billions in incentives and subsidies from US, European and Japanese governments, they are contributing data to the Chinese government that ultimately serves Beijings strategic interests.

In 2011, the US Department of Energys Idaho National Laboratory began a nationwide study of how electric vehicle owners drive and charge their cars. Participants gave explicit written consent to allow the government laboratory to collect their data, and even then it wasnt delivered in real time, said John Smart, who leads the centers advanced vehicles group. Instead, the team got historical data on a weekly basis. Cars were assigned random numbers for the study, so owners remained anonymous.

Nothing of its kind has been done since in the US, Smart said.

The cost is very high to collect data, he explained. The government hasnt felt the need to provide that money and the manufacturers making their own investments are choosing to keep the findings to themselves for proprietary reasons.

When it was published, in 2015, the Idaho National Laboratorys study was the largest ever done. All told, bundled with some additional data, the study helped Idaho researchers analyse 21,600 electric vehicles over 158 million driving miles (254 million kilometers).

In the same amount of time it took Idaho researchers to publish their study, the Shanghai Electric Vehicle Public Data Collecting, Monitoring and Research Center began gathering real-time information from more than 222,000 vehicles and amassed over 4.7 billion miles (7.6 billion kilometers) of driving history.

As a researcher, I think that data set could be used to answer hundreds of questions, Smart said. I have a notebook a half an inch thick full of questions.

Global automakers stressed that they share data to comply with Chinese regulations. Nearly all have announced plans to aggressively expand their electric vehicle offerings in China, the worlds largest car market.

There are real-time monitoring systems in China where we have to deliver car data to a government system, Volkswagen Group China chief executive Jochem Heizmann said in an interview. He acknowledged that he could not guarantee the data would not be used for government surveillance, but stressed that Volkswagen keeps personal data, like the drivers identity, secure within its own systems.

It includes the location of the car, yes, but not who is sitting in it, he said, adding that cars wont reveal any more information than smart phones already do. There is not a principle difference between sitting in a car and being in a shopping mall and having a smart phone with you.

Jose Munoz, the head of Nissans China operations, said he was unaware of the monitoring system until the AP told him, but he stressed that the automaker operated according to the law. Asked by the AP about the potential for human rights abuses and commercial conflicts posed by the data sharing, Munoz smiled and shrugged.

At Nissan, we are extremely committed to the Chinese market, he said. We see it as the market that has the greatest opportunity to grow.

Ford, BMW and NIO declined to comment. Mitsubishi did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

General Motors and Daimler said they transmit data in compliance with industry regulations and get consent from car buyers on how their vehicle data is collected and used.

Tesla declined to answer specific questions and instead pointed to a privacy policy buyers sign at the time of purchase, which stipulates that vehicle data can be shared with other third parties when required by law, though there was no specific mention of the government monitoring centers in the Chinese version of the policy.

Interviews with car owners suggest such disclosures arent effective. Only one of nine electric vehicle owners was aware data from his car is fed to the government  and he said he only knew because he is an electric vehicle engineer.

Its useless to be concerned about it, said Min Zeren, who owns a Tesla Model S. If youre concerned about it, then theres no way to live in this country.

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.Marriott says that unauthorised access to data at former Starwood hotels, which Marriott acquired two years ago, has been taking place since 2014. (Photo: AP)

The Latest on a security breach inside Marriotts worldwide hotel empire that has compromised the information of as many as 500 million guests (all times local):

4:40 p.m.

Security experts say a data breach that affected up to 500 million guests at Marriott hotels is one of the largest in the past decade in terms of size and scope. The fact that it took four years to discover is problematic, too.

They say the richness of the data taken makes the hack unique, especially if the hackers end up being hostile nation-states.

Chris Wysopal, chief technology officer of Veracode, says that with information about someones arrival and departure dates, that could be used to incriminate someone or attack someones reputation. He says it goes beyond the traditional credit-card theft or risk of identity theft.

Marriott says that unauthorised access to data at former Starwood hotels, which Marriott acquired two years ago, has been taking place since 2014.

11:30 a.m.

Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia is appealing to Congress to pass laws that require data minimisation following Marriotts disclosure of a data breach.

Warner, who is vice chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and co-founder of the Senate Cybersecurity Caucus, said Friday that Congress should ensure that companies dont keep sensitive customer data that they no longer need.

Warner also said that new laws should make companies accountable for security costs.

11:05 a.m.

The New York Attorney General is opening an investigation into a Marriott data breach that may have affected 500 million guests.

In a tweet Friday, Attorney General Barbara Underwood said residents need to know that their personal information is safe.

Marriott says that unauthorised access to data at former Starwood hotels, which Marriott acquired two years ago, has been taking place since 2014.

The affected hotel brands include W Hotels, St. Regis, Sheraton, Westin, Element, Aloft, The Luxury Collection, Le Meridien and Four Points. Starwood branded timeshare properties are also included.

None of the Marriott-branded chains is threatened.

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Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.'China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the US Currently the tariff is 40 per cent,' Trump said on Twitter. (Photo: File)

Washington: China has agreed to scale back tariffs on imported US cars, President Donald Trump said Sunday, one day after agreeing with Xi Jinping to a ceasefire in the trade war between the world's top two economies.

Asia stocks had rallied on the news that Washington and Beijing would not impose any new tariffs during a three-month grace period, during which the two sides are meant to finalize a more detailed agreement.

"China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the US Currently the tariff is 40 per cent," Trump said on Twitter.

On Saturday, Trump and Xi agreed to put a stop to their tit-for-tat tariffs row, which had roiled world markets for months.

The Republican president called their agreement -- which Washington hopes will help close a yawning trade gap with the Asian giant and help protect US intellectual property -- an "incredible" deal.

Trump agreed to hold off on his threat to slap 25 per cent tariffs on USD 200 billion worth of Chinese goods from January 1, leaving them at the current 10 per cent rate.

In return, China is to purchase "very substantial" amount of agricultural, energy, industrial and other product from the US.

The US president did not send any subsequent tweets Sunday explaining which auto tariffs would be removed, and which would be reduced.

In July, China reduced auto import duties from 25 per cent to 15 per cent, a boon for international carmakers keen to grow sales in the world's largest auto market.

But as trade tensions ratcheted up with the US this summer, Beijing retaliated by slapping vehicles imported from the US with an extra 25 per cent tariff, bringing the total tariff rate to 40 per cent.

Many US automakers build their cars in China, but for some the tariff hikes have hit sales.

US company Tesla saw its sales drop with the higher prices this fall and recently said it would absorb some of the higher tariff costs and no longer pass them on to consumers.

German carmaker BMW and Ford's Lincoln brand have also been hit hard by the tariffs with some of their cars made in the US for the Chinese market.

The news comes as Trump mulls a tariff hike on vehicles imported from the European Union.

Top executives from German carmakers Volkswagen, Daimler and BMW are to meet Tuesday with senior US officials at the White House to discuss the situation, the German news agency DPA reported, citing unnamed sources.Manila: The journalist who leads a news site that has battled Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte turned herself in on Monday to face what she termed a manufactured tax fraud case that carries the threat of a decade behind bars.

A day after Rappler CEO Maria Ressa flew home to the Philippines under the threat of an arrest warrant, she surrendered at a Manila court and was allowed to remain free after paying a cash bail.

Rappler has been hit by a string of government efforts to shut it down since the site took a critical tone on Duterte, in particular his internationally condemned drug war that has killed thousands.

Ressa now faces the prospect of a trial in an overburdened court system that is notoriously susceptible to influence from powerful elites.

They (the charges) are politically motivated and... they are manufactured, she told journalists outside court. Rappler pays the right taxes.If found guilty of the charge that Rappler provided false information to tax authorities, she risks up to 10 years behind bars. She posted a bail equivalent of $1,100.Campaigners condemned the charge, which is one of several tax fraud cases the government filed against Rappler and Ressa last week while she was out of the country to attend a series of prominent journalism events.

The charges are part of the Duterte administration's campaign to harass, threaten and intimidate critics, said Human Rights Watch Philippines researcher Carlos Conde.

The attacks on Rappler are consistent with the way the Duterte administration has treated other 'drug war' critics, he said.Canberra: Yes, Scott Morrison is the fifth Prime Minister Australia has had since 2013. But that can hardly be an excuse for German Chancellor Angela Merkel to read a crib sheet about Mr Morrison when they sat down for their first meeting at the G20 summit in Buenos Aires last weekend. Worse, cameras caught her in the act.

G20 summits are called a form of diplomatic speed dating but most world leaders get the basic biographical details of their fellow world leaders in their head. And no wonder why Australians are not amused at what Merkel has done. Who is this? Australians can probably relate to Angela Merkel's predicament, read a headline in The Sydney Morning Herald.

But their government denied that the incident was embarrassing for either nation. Angela Merkel's department, no doubt... was simply ensuring that the chancellor was properly briefed, Australian Trade Minister Simon Birmin-gham said.Paris: French leader Emmanuel Macron faced growing pressure on Monday to find a way out of the worst crisis of his presidency after shocking scenes of rioting in Paris at the weekend.

As more than 100 people prepared to appear in court over the worst clashes in central Paris in decades on Saturday, Macrons government was preparing its response.

Prime Minister Edouard Philippe, who cancelled a scheduled trip to Poland, was set to meet the heads of the main political parties, many of whom sense opportunities in Macrons woes.

But the 40-year-old president appeared determined not to roll back the unpopular hikes in fuel tax which sparked the protests, or announce state handouts for poor families.

Thinking that, as we have always done for 30 years, that you make a little symbolic gesture and then we sweep the dust under the carpet, that doesnt resolve the fundamental, structural problem, spokesman Benjamin Griveaux said on France Inter radio.

The protests erupted over fuel taxes but have since morphed into a wider wave of resistance to Macrons economic reforms, with a third round of demonstrations called for Saturday in Paris.

Macron, a 40-year-old centrist, was elected in May 2017 on a pro-business platform that promised measures to incite companies to invest to create jobs.

Immediately after coming to power, he pushed through tax cuts for entrepreneurs and high-earners  policies that have become a lightning rod for anger among the so-called gilets jaunes or yellow vests.

Macrons task now is also complicated by his own desire not to yield to Frances street protests, which in the past have repeatedly forced his predecessors into U-turns.



Jacline Mouraud, one of the protest movements prime instigators, said scrapping the fuel tax was a prerequisite for any discussion with the government. After his meeting political rivals on Monday, Prime Minister Philippe is set to hold talks with representatives of the yellow vests on Tuesday. He would then announce measures aimed at taking the heat out of the protests, his office said.

Mr President, we need a response, demanded the front-page headline of Le Parisien newspaper on Monday. Swamped read the headline of left-leaning Liberation newspaper which said the government seemed paralysed by the yellow vest movement that it can't stop and that risks boiling over.

Amid criticism of policing methods on Saturday that saw dozens of cars torched and shops vandalised, the government ruled out imposing a state of emergency which had been mooted. Deputy interior minister Laurent Nunez said that emergency measures were one option among others, but he said it was not on the table for now.

Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire said that solution for tackling low purchasing power for struggling families lay in reducing the tax burden in France, which is among the highest in Europe.

We must speed up the reduction of taxes, he said. But for that we must speed up the decrease in public spending.

Macron, a former investment banker, was booed on Sunday by onlookers while surveying the damage caused during the rioting.Islamabad: US President Donald Trump has written to Prime Minister Imran Khan, seeking Pakistans support in bringing the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year brutal war in trouble-torn Afghanistan, officials here said on Monday.

The development came weeks after Trump said Pakistan does not do a damn thing for the US, alleging that Islamabad had helped al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden hide near its garrison city of Abbottabad.

The Foreign Office (FO) said that the President, in a letter, has sought Pakistan's cooperation in bringing the Taliban to negotiating table.

In the letter, Trump stated that his most important regional priority was achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war. In this regard, he has sought Pakistan's support and facilitation, the Foreign Office said. The President also acknowledged that the war had cost both the US and Pakistan.China's stock markets surged, bond futures fell and its currency strengthened in early trade on Monday after a closely watched meeting between Chinese and U.S. leaders produced a ceasefire in their countries' bruising trade conflict.

The deal agreed to in Buenos Aires by China and the United States halts additional tariffs that were due to take effect on Jan. 1 and was lauded by both sides, though analysts caution that it represents a buying of time rather than a trade war resolution.

China's benchmark Shanghai Composite index jumped 2.3 percent shortly after the open. Blue-chip shares gained 2.7 percent.

Shares in Hong Kong also jumped, with the Hang Seng index adding 2.5 percent and the China Enterprises Index jumping 2.9 percent.

The rally in shares drove government bond futures lower with the 10-year treasury futures for March delivery, the most-traded contract, falling 0.26 percent at the open.

The White House says Beijing agreed to buy an unspecified but "very substantial" amount of agricultural, energy, industrial and other products, and that China and the U.S. would launch new trade talks to address issues including technology transfer, intellectual property, non-tariff barriers, cyber theft and agriculture.

The White House also said the countries would hold additional talks, with an existing 10 percent tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to be lifted to 25 percent if no deal was reached within 90 days.

China praised the "important consensus" reached in the deal, but did not mention the 90-day deadline.

Despite the differences in the wording of U.S. and Chinese statements and uncertainty about some the details, the deal is a better outcome than many investors had expected.

"It is a positive surprise to the RMB and the stock market, which has largely priced in the no-deal case," Larry Hu, economist at Macquarie in Hong Kong.

China's onshore yuan strengthened to 6.9260 per dollar at 0134 GMT after opening at 6.9278.

Its offshore counterpart also strengthened, and was trading at 6.9201 per dollar at 0133 GMT.

"The progress in the Sino-U.S. negotiations is slightly positive news for the market, and it will help revive risk appetite to support the yuan," said Stephen Chiu, FX and rates strategist at China Construction Bank (Asia) in Hong Kong. He said he expects the yuan to rebound and trade in a range of 6.8 to 6.9 per dollar on Monday.Abu al Umarayn, an Islamic State group leader involved in the execution of American aid worker Peter Kassig and other Western prisoners was killed in a strike Sunday by the US-led anti-jihadist coalition in Syria.

Kassig, aged 26 at the time of his death, was among a group of prisoners decapitated by jihadists in November 2014. The mass execution was shown in a video released by the group.

"Coalition forces conducted precision strikes against a senior ISIS member, Abu al Umarayn, and several other ISIS members in the Badiyah Desert, Syria," said Sean Ryan, spokesman for the US-led coalition, in a statement in English.

"Al Umarayn had given indications of posing an imminent threat to coalition forces and he was involved in the killing of American citizen and former U.S. Army Ranger, Peter Kassig", kidnapped in Syria in 2013, he added.

Ryan said he had been also been involved in the execution of several other prisoners.

"Coalition airstrikes continue to disrupt ISIS command and control on the battlefield as we remove key figures from their ranks," he said.

Damascus had earlier Sunday accused the coalition of launching missiles against Syrian army positions, according to the official Sana news agency.

"The American coalition forces launched around 8:00 pm (1800 GMT) this evening several missiles against some positions of our forces in the Ghorab mountains south of Sukhna," causing only "damage to equipment," Sana said, citing a military source.

According to the monitoring Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, coalition forces positioned in the Al-Tanf region fired "more than 14 missiles" at a Syrian army convoy as it was passing through the desert in the far east of Homs province.

"The group was lost in the middle of the desert around 35 kilometres from the Al-Tanf base" of US and British troops, the Observatory's director Rami Abdel Rahmane told AFP.

The United States generally uses this base to launch its strikes against IS jihadists. It has also been used in the past to train Syrian opposition fighters.

Peter Kassig founded a humanitarian organisation in 2012 that trained some 150 civilians to provide medical aid to people in Syria. His group also gave food, cooking supplies, clothing and medicine to the needy.

He took the name Abdul-Rahman after converting to Islam.

Before Kassig's death, his life had been threatened in an earlier video showing the beheading of another aid worker, Briton Alan Henning.

Kassig's mother Paula reached out directly to IS militants to plead for her son's life.

The international coalition intervened in Syria and Iraq in 2014 to fight the expansion of IS after it had taken control of vast swathes of territory straddling the two countries.

Defeated in Iraq, the group still retains territory in some parts of the Syrian desert, particularly in the east of the country, where the coalition continues to fight the jihadists with the support of an alliance of Kurdish and Arab fighters.Qatar is to leave OPEC next month in order for the Gulf state to focus on gas production, the country's new Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi announced in a surprise move on Monday.

Qatar has been a member of OPEC since 1961, and the decision to pull outcomes at a turbulent time in Gulf politics, with Doha under a boycott by former neighbouring allies including Saudi Arabia for 18 months.

"Qatar has decided to withdraw its membership from OPEC effective January 2019 and this decision was communicated to OPEC this morning," Kaabi said at a Doha press conference.

Kaabi, who also heads state-owned Qatar Petroleum, denied the move was linked to the feud with Saudi Arabia and its allies.

The decision was "technical and strategic" and had "nothing to do with the blockade," he said.

Qatar would continue to produce oil and seek deals in countries including Latin America's top oil producer Brazil, said Kaabi.

But gas production would remain the top priority for Qatar, which is the world's biggest exporter of liquified natural gas (LNG).

"We don't have great potential (in oil), we are very realistic," said Kaabi, who described himself as "Mr Gas" during the conference. "Our potential is gas.

"I think it's inefficient to focus on something that's not your core business and something that's not going to benefit you long-term."

In September Qatar announced it planned to boost gas production to 110 million tonnes per year by 2024.

Qatar's oil production is around 600,000 barrels per day and it is the world's 17th largest producer of crude oil, according to specialist website, world data.info.

It also only holds around two percent of the world's global oil reserves, according to the CIA World Factbook.

Kaabi said OPEC had been informed of the decision on Monday ahead of the announcement and that he would still attend the organisation's Vienna meeting later this week, his "first and last" as energy minister.

That meeting is expected to set a policy for 2019 and despite Qatar's announcement, oil prices soared on Monday after Russia and Saudi Arabia renewed a pact to cap output.

OPEC is dominated by oil-rich Saudi, which along with its allies has had no ties with Qatar since June 2017.

Relations between Riyadh and Doha are at an all-time low as a result of the crisis, which has seen Saudi-led countries accuse Qatar of supporting terrorism and being too close to Iran.

Qatar refutes the allegations and claims rivals want to overthrow its government.Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, wanted in his home country of India, said he has not broken any Indian law and was being targeted by the "enemies of Islam," in a rare public speech in Malaysia where he has sought refuge.

Naik, 53, is facing charges of money laundering and hate speech in India, where authorities last year said he has been "promoting enmity and hatred between different religious groups in India through public speeches and lectures".

The preacher has been living in Malaysia, where he has permanent residency, since India started investigating him, but he has kept a low profile over the past year amid criticism that he is a threat to peace in multi-ethnic Malaysia.

Naik said in a late Saturday speech in Kangar, capital of the north Malaysian state of Perlis, that he had never broken any Indian law.

"But because I was spreading peace, I was giving solution for humanity, all the people who don't like peace to prevail, they don't like me," he said, adding he was being targeted because of his work to spread Islam.

"This doesn't go down (well with) the enemies of Islam. Be it western countries or the country I was born in, India."

Naik has been controversial because of his puritan brand of Islam - recommending the death penalty for homosexuals and those who abandon Islam as their faith, according to media reports.

In a clip on Youtube, Naik says that if Osama bin Laden "is terrorizing America the terrorist, the biggest terrorist, I am with him".

Bangladesh suspended a television channel that featured his preachings after media reported that militants who attacked a Dhaka cafe killing 22 people last year were admirers of him.

Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack.

Britain banned Naik from entering in 2010.

About 1,000 people turned up for Naik's speech, along with the state's chief minister, crown prince and religious officials.

The preacher was known to be close to officials in the previous Malaysian administration, which was unexpectedly defeated in a May general election.

New Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad in July said as long as Naik was not creating any problems in Malaysia, he would not be deported. Indian media has reported that India has sought his extradition.

In Kangar, Naik described himself as a fundamentalist for following the fundamental teachings of Islam.

"I am proud to be a fundamentalist Muslim," he said

A doctor by training, Naik will be delivering more lectures at universities and a mosque on the speaking tour. His wife, Farhat Naik, will address women in separate speeches. (Reporting by A. Ananthalakshmi Editing by Robert Birsel)Indian Navy has taken punitive action against Reliance Naval and Engineering Limited for its failure to deliver six off-shore patrol vessels, says Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, who denied offering any special treatment to Anil Ambani-led company.

We have encashed the bank guarantee supplied by the company. It is a punitive action. There was no preferential treatment, Admiral Lanba said here on Monday at his annual media interaction ahead of the Navy Day.



Asked whether the Navy had given any preferential treatment to Reliance under pressure from the BJP-led NDA government, he denied the charges of facing any pressure to protect the company.



While the OPV agreement has not yet been cancelled, it is being re-examined, he said.



In May 2011, the Navy awarded the Rs 2,974 crore contract to Pipavav to build five offshore patrol vessels. While the first ship was to be delivered in 2015, the private shipyard that was acquired by Reliance in 2015, launched the first two ships in the water only in July 2017.



Almost same time, Goa Shipyard Limited was given another order to manufacture four OPV. The public sector unit delivered all of them in time. The last one was commissioned in August 2014.



In a statement issued in October 2014, Reliance said it was constructing 20 ships of three categories for the defence services  five Naval Offshore Patrol Vessels, 14 fast patrol vessels and a 3000 tonnes training ship for the Indian Coast Guard. Of these, six vessels are expected to be delivered in 2019.



Admiral Lanba said RNEL was undergoing corporate debt restructuring as the company had been taken to the court by its banker, IDBI. The company would not be participating in the planned tender to construct landing platform docks.



In the past, the Navy had taken action against another private shipyard ABG for its failure to deliver the naval contracts in time. It cancelled Rs 1455 crore contracts given to Ahmedabad-based shipyard to construct three cadet training ships.



The NDA governments relationship with Anil Ambani-led defence manufacturing companies of Reliance is under the scanner at the moment because of the controversy surrounding the Rafale fighter aircraft deal.



Opposition parties and critics of the government alleged that the contract to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets from Dassault Aviation was concluded by the Narendra Modi government to favour Reliance, which is the main offset partner for the Rs 59,000 crore aircraft deal.

India will start constructing its third aircraft carrier in another three years, Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba asserted on Monday.



It would be a 65,000 tonnes ship with conventional propulsion and CATOBAR (catapult-based aircraft launch system) facility. The construction would start within the next three years and take seven to ten years for completion, the Navy Chief said in his annual media interaction ahead of the Navy Day.



India currently has only one operational aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya. A second carrier named Vikrant is under construction at Cochin Shipyard and likely to commence its sea trials by 2020. Russian-origin MiG-29K fighter jets would operate from the decks of both.



Having a third aircraft carrier would enable the Indian Navy to operate two Carrier Battle Groups at any point of time, fulfilling its long-term objective of control and domination of the Indian Ocean Region.



The Navy, however, is yet to decide on the type of the fighter aircraft that would take off from the decks of the third carrier.



Navy Chiefs assertion on the construction of the third aircraft carrier comes at a time when Chinas Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) moves ahead with its plan of constructing four aircraft carriers by 2022.



Chinas first carrier, the Liaoning, was commissioned in 2012. In April 2018, China launched its second carrier, tentatively named Type 002, which is more or less a copy of Liaoning.



Admiral Lanba said the Navy secured government permission to construct 56 ships and submarines, which would include additional ships, replacement ships and Indias second submarine assembly line known as P-75I.



With French collaboration, the first submarine (Scorpene) production line is operational at Mazgaon dock in Mumbai.



The first submarine INS Kalvari was commissioned in the service in 2017 and the second one to be named INS Khanderi is expected to be commissioned shortly as it completed all trials. The third and fourth in the line  Karanj and Vela  are now going through pre-induction trials, Navy Chief said.



Admiral Lanba confirmed that the Russian origin nuclear-powered submarine INS Chakra was back into the service after an accident and indigenous N-powered underwater boat INS Arihant completed its first deterrent patrol.



The Navy is also set to commission its first deep-submergence rescue vehicles in Mumbai later this month and a second DSRV at Visakhapatnam later.



By 2050, we hope to have a Navy with 200 ships and 500 aircraft truly reflecting Indias maritime prowess, he added.

Making final submissions, the CBI on Monday said that Sohrabuddin Shaikh and Tulsiram Prajapati were killed in fake encounters in Gujarat.

However, Additional Sessions Judge S J Sharma raised several questions on part of the CBI in unearthing finer details.

"Both were fake encounters," Special Public Prosecutor B P Raju told Judge Sharma, while making the final arguments and rested his case.

Dwelling on the November 26, 2005, encounter of Sohrabuddin between Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, Raju questioned the report of Senior Inspector of Rajasthan police, who mentioned that he had received intelligence input of Sohrabuddin having links with Lashkar-e-Toiba and ISI and was coming to assassinate a "big political leader".

He said that Kumbh Singh, then a Sub Inspector of District Special Branch of Udaipur police, was examined as a prosecution witness, who denied having received such information.

Raju also pointed out that Sohrabuddin and Tulsiram were chargesheeted in the Hamid Lala murder case in March, 2005, however, there is no mention even then on such links.

"Why no investigator or agency had probed as from where and whom such information had come?, Judge Sharma wanted to know.

Raju also pointed out that the ticket from Surat to Ahmedabad did not had any blood stains, whereas other articles seized like driving license did had.

"It was planted," the prosecutor said to which the Judge asked: "All accused were with you. Initially there were 38. Did you (CBI) interrogate as to who planted it."

Raju said that at least four persons have mentioned about threat to Sohrabuddin's life Tulsiram, Azam Khan, Sylvester and Rubabuddin.

"This shows that the encounter was fake," he said.

He also said that the call detail records of the mobile seized from Sohrabuddin was not checked and the ATS did not mention from where he got the motorcycle.

Coming on to the encounter of Tulsiram, Raju said that the chilli powder-escape theory is not satisfactory.

"It was said that when Tulsiram was spotted in Chhapri in Amreli district, two other persons were there. Who were they," he said.

However, the Judge said that the investigating agency should have made efforts to find out.

"It is a planned encounter," the prosecutor said, adding that finger prints of Tulsiram were not found in the 'desi-katta' that was seized.

"Sample of handwash was not taken to check on gun-powder," he mentioned.

"He was in custody for a year. He escaped from custody on November 27, 2006 and killed in the morning of November 28, 2006. It is highly impossible for him to get a pistol, when he is on a run," he added.Editor's note: A version of this was previously published on the author's website.

The lovely open star cluster, the Pleiades, has been called the Seven Sisters since antiquity. But nobody sees seven stars in this showpiece of the late autumn and winter, not by unaided eyeball and certainly not by telescope.

Like a tiny kite of bright points, in November the Pleiades are visible in the east after sunset and are easily seen until dawn. They lodge on the shoulder of the constellation Taurus the bull. Bruce McClure, in an article posted by EarthSky.org, says November is often called the month of the Pleiades because it's when the cluster can be seen all night, although "you can see the Pleiades cluster in the evening sky well into April.  Most people see 6, not 7, Pleiades stars in a dark country sky."

Ancient Greeks associated this regal star cluster with the mythological seven daughters of Atlas (he who carries the world on his shoulders) and Pleione. Going counter-clockwise from center, the names of the brightest are Alcyone, Merope, Electra, Caleano, Taygeta, Sterope (aka Asterope, a double star) and Maia  oh, and Pleione and Atlas. The latter two stars, named for the parents, are removed a short distance from the main section but really are part of the cluster. So we have nine that shine brightly enough for pre-telescope naming, not seven.

"The actual number of Pleiades stars visible (to the naked eye), however, may be more or less than seven, depending on the darkness of the surrounding sky and the clarity of the observer's eyesight," wrote astrophotographer Marco Lorenzi.

The disconnect between the seven sisters and the actual number in the cluster is much more dramatic when they are studied with modern instruments. NASA has posted separate estimates of over 1,000 and 3,000 stars  with no explanation for the difference.

Open star clusters are bound together by gravity, as the stars formed from the same interstellar cloud of gas and dust; the members slowly move apart until they are no longer associated. Many nebulas are dusty clouds lit up by their stars as the stars form, but this is not so with the Pleiades, even though the group is dominated by wispy streams of a nebula's gas and dust. This material gives the star collection a fuzzy look.

Known also as Messier 45, the Pleiades are about 400 light-years from Earth and stretch across 13 light years. The stars are believed to be youngsters of 100 million years old, writes astronomer Stephen John Gibson of Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green. Their original nebula has been absorbed or dissipated. Gibson adds, "Several Pleiades appear surrounded by intricate blue filaments of light. This nebulosity is the result of starlight scattering (reflecting) off minute grains of interstellar dust in the vicinity." The blue color results from the same effect that gives our sky that tint, light scattered by material in the atmosphere.

"The dust particles are inside a cloud of mostly hydrogen gas that the cluster seems to be plowing into," he says.

Tony Hallas, the famous astrophotographer, writing a description for his Astronomy Picture of the Day hosted by NASA, explains that the stars and the dust cloud are not related, "they just happen to be passing through the same region of space."

We can enjoy the Pleiades even from light-polluted cities, usually by unassisted vision, looking up and generally from southeast to southwest; if that doesn't work, try binoculars.

During the November new-moon period, when that orb's monstrous glare was absent, I tried to photograph M-74, the holiday wreath galaxy, from the front yard of our home in Salt Lake City. The city's light pollution rendered the galaxy invisible. But the Pleiades were so bright that I was able to obtain a view of Maia and the blue nebula. I also got a look at Electra and Celaeno.SALT LAKE CITY  Legislative leaders will try Monday to make good on their promise to pass a comprehensive medical marijuana bill that strikes the right balance of adequately addressing patients' need for access and maintaining safeguards against abuse.

Scrutiny on the special session will be high, as the bill legislators will consider would in essence supersede Proposition 2, which was passed last month by 53 percent of voters and officially became the law of the land in Utah on Saturday.

Republican and Democratic caucuses in both the House and Senate are expected to meet first, then the bill will proceed to the House floor and later to the Senate floor, said Rep. Brad Daw, R-Orem, co-chairman of the Health and Human Services Interim Committee.

Gov. Gary Herbert formally called the special session Friday, close to two months after he first announced he would call one to get the bill passed regardless of how Utahns voted on Proposition 2.

Herbert's office has confirmed it expects the special session to last one day.

The comprehensive replacement bill, sponsored by Utah House Speaker Greg Hughes, R-Draper, is a compromise that multiple supporters and opponents of Proposition 2 have agreed to support.

With one comprehensive medical marijuana law already on the books, and another poised to potentially replace it, how did Utah politics arrive here, and what are the implications for patients who may benefit?

Reaching compromise

In 2016, a far-reaching medical marijuana bill sponsored by then-Sen. Mark Madsen, R-Saratoga Springs, passed the Utah Senate but failed to make out of committee in the House. The issue of broad legalization never got that close at the Legislature the next year.

In June 2017, medical marijuana legalization advocates filed paperwork to begin gathering signatures to take the issue directly to voters. The ballot initiative gobbled up the most signatures in an initiative-heavy election cycle, gaining nearly 154,000.

However, the campaign soon attracted ardent opposition from influential medical, law enforcement and faith groups, which argued the bill made laws against recreational marijuana use too easy to evade.

In the spring, the campaigning for and against Proposition 2 took a contentious turn, as the Utah Patients Coalition petition campaign accused the Utah Medical Association of using deceitful tactics in a signature removal drive meant to defeat the measure before it got to the ballot box.

In turn, the Utah Medical Association filed a complaint with Utah elections officials, claiming a Utah Patients Coalition official had offered to buy completed signature removal forms in an effort to keep them from being turned in.

In light of those allegations and other contention, those same groups would later admit some surprise that they were able to come together and agree to support the contents of a compromise bill after dozens of hours of private talks with Hughes about what it ought to include  or leave out. That breakthrough was first reported by the Deseret News on Oct. 2.

The Utah Patients Coalition, the campaign that made the initiative a reality, and Libertas Institute, the campaign's biggest in-state financial supporter, agreed to back the compromise. So did prominent anti-Proposition 2 groups Utah Medical Association and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Each of those groups praised the compromise as a smart solution that balances strong patient access with mitigating opportunities for abusing the medical marijuana program and better helping law enforcement monitor recreational use.

The Utah Patients Coalition has said the Legislature always has the power to "gut" the ballot initiative upon passing, and reaching a compromise was therefore safer for the long-term viability of Utah's medical marijuana program.

The Marijuana Policy Project, an advocacy group based in Washington, D.C., that helped write Proposition 2 and was its largest donor, has also lauded the compromise, calling it "undoubtedly a victory for Utah patients and their families."

Compromise critics

However, some groups are not pleased with the compromise and the behind-closed-doors nature of the negotiations that led to it. That includes Together for Responsible Use and Cannabis Education or TRUCE, which has promised to pressure Utah legislators to respect the outcome of the Proposition 2 vote by only voting to approve minor changes to the measure.

The group's president, Christine Stenquist, says the compromise bill is an inappropriate usurpation of what Utah voters passed, and it significantly limits patient access.

TRUCE and the Epilepsy Association of Utah have, through attorney and former Salt Lake City Mayor Rocky Anderson, recently warned of potential legal action related to the negotiation process that produced the compromise bill.

"The voters of Utah decided that Proposition 2 was what they wanted," Doug Rice, interim president of the association, recently said. "We're supposed to bargain for what we won?"

Sen. Jim Dabakis, D-Salt Lake City, also criticized the private negotiations Friday, saying they indicate "a paternalistic contempt for Utah voters."

Walter Plumb, who put tens of thousands of dollars of his own money into campaigning against Proposition 2 earlier this year, also has concerns about the compromise  but for much different reasons than Stenquist, Rice or Dabakis.

Plumb, a real estate developer and president of the political issues committee Drug Safe Utah, has said one of his worries is whether the compromise does enough to guard against improper youth access to marijuana.

"We owe it as a state to protect these youth in every way to prevent them from the dangers of a psychoactive drug marijuana," Plumb told the Interim Health and Human Services Committee a week ago at the final public hearing on the compromise bill.

Session effective?

The use of a special legislative session for the compromise bill has also come under fire from some who say the process is too rushed to enact a meaningful medical marijuana program without significant flaws.

Justin Arriola, board member and industry liaison for TRUCE, recently asked lawmakers, "Why can't we look at pushing back the dates to allow us to have further discussion?"

"This bill is so far from being ready to go.  If the issue is truly that we need more voices, or we need people to have time to feel comfortable with this language, then let's give ourselves time. Let's not force a special session a month before we go into a regular session," Arriola told the Health and Human Services Interim Committee last week.

But Hughes believes moving quickly is of the essence, so that patients, state agencies and medical marijuana businesses don't have to spend significant time suspended in uncertainty over what version of Utah's medical marijuana program they will ultimately see.

"The longer you would have as a gap between what would pass and (the compromise bill passing)  you would have in that time  two competing laws," Hughes told his fellow legislators at that hearing.

Competing bills

When Hughes' bill goes before the House and later the Senate, it is expected there will be multiple amendments to it proposed there. And a pair of Democrats in the Legislature have already indicated they will introduce substitute bills that they hope lawmakers will adopt rather than Hughes' legislation.

Dabakis said Friday he hopes to thwart Hughes' compromise bill via a pair of bills he will propose. One of them makes only "legislative-staff suggested technical changes in Prop. 2," he said, while the other would go beyond that with provisions "leaving it up to patients to decide where to get their medical-help cannabis" upon qualifying for it.

The Utah House Democratic Caucus also recently announced plans by Rep. Rebecca Chavez-Houck, D-Salt Lake City, to introduce a bill that only makes "necessary technical changes to Proposition 2 to dovetail with current law" and does "not make any substantive changes to the proposition that Utah voters favorably passed."

Original compromise

The compromise bill made several changes, compared to Proposition 2, affecting how Utahns would be able to legally qualify for, purchase and consume medical marijuana.

Some changes were made in the initial version of the compromise, while others were later added in a second draft version of the bill released Nov. 5 and a third one published Nov. 21. Those changes are as follows:

 Removes language permitting anyone with "an autoimmune disorder" to qualify for a medical cannabis card.

 Requires doctors and pharmacists to undergo four hours of "continuing education" on the topic before being authorized to qualify patients for a card or dispense medical marijuana.

 Modifies Proposition 2's "affirmative defense" that allows a person to fight marijuana possession charges before a certain date on the basis they would have been eligible for a card despite not having one. In such cases, the compromise bill says, the marijuana must be in "medicinal usage form" and the person must have "a pre-existing relationship" with a doctor who has indicated they could medically benefit from marijuana use.

 Requires businesses selling medical marijuana to employ a licensed pharmacist, changes the name from dispensaries to pharmacies, and allows fewer such businesses to operate in the state.

 Institutes a separate state central fill distribution system designed to have the capacity to mail patients' marijuana orders to local health departments.

 Removes a provision allowing patients living more than 100 miles from a medical marijuana dispensary to grow up to six of their own marijuana plants.

 Limits the authorized forms of medical marijuana consumption to a capsule, chewable or dissolvable gelatin cube, concentrated oil, liquid suspension, skin patch, sublingual pill, or in limited circumstances, a resin or wax.

Compromise update 1

 Narrows the definition of which employers may not take adverse action against a worker for their status as a medical marijuana user, applying that standard to public state and local agencies only rather than all employers.

 Includes a severability clause specifying that if one part of the law were to be declared invalid, the other portions would remain in effect.

 Says police officers may not enforce any law that restricts a person's right to own a firearm based solely on their lawful use or possession of marijuana.

Compromise update 2

 Removes a restriction on landlords prohibiting them from refusing to rent to a person on the sole basis that they are a medical cannabis cardholder.

 Readjusts the number of allowed medical marijuana pharmacies to seven, though that number is still significantly less than provided for in Proposition 2, and says if central fill distribution is not operational by 2021, that number may be increased to 10.

 Decreases the number of marijuana growing facility licenses allowed, and institutes size limits on those facilities.

 Requires patients under 21 to get secondary approval for a medical cannabis card from the state-appointed Compassionate Use Board, in addition to that of their doctor.

Hughes also told the Deseret News he was finalizing some 11th-hour changes to the bill Friday, improving how veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder can gain approval for a medical cannabis card and expanding card approval authority to advanced practice registered nurses.SALT LAKE CITY  The number of Utahns enrolling in insurance plans on the federal health exchange is down compared to this time last year, new data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid shows.

Through Nov. 25, a little more than three weeks into this year's open enrollment period, 56,105 Utahns had signed up for a plan, compared to 62,844 at roughly the same point in 2017, a drop of about 11 percentage points. One week prior, new enrollment had an even bigger discrepancy from 2017, at almost 14 percentage points below last year's rate.

But health insurance advocates who help people sign up are confident final enrollment numbers will closely resemble last year's.

"The closer you get to the deadline, the more people who start to sign up. It's like a snowball rolling down hill.  I'm not too worried, because of the huge uptick we got toward the end of open enrollment (last year)," said Randal Serr, director of Take Care Utah, a network of nonprofits which help people sign up for health insurance.

"It's kind of like tax day  everybody waits until the last week to do their taxes."

The last day to enroll in a plan on the exchange is Dec. 15.

Serr said that because of people's tendency to procrastinate, it's hard to pinpoint with much certainty how enrollment will look until the deadline has passed. Last year was the first time open enrollment ended in mid-December, shortening the sign-up window by half, and about a week before the deadline it had appeared uncertain as to whether enrollments could keep pace with prior years.

However, the number of Utahns who signed up for a health plan in 2017 came within about 1.6 percent of the year prior, and sign-ups on the federal exchange around the country were just 5 percent lower.

In Utah, advocates like Serr were happy with the 2017 results, which materialized despite a tumultuous year in which Molina Healthcare announced it would be leaving the federal health exchange in the state, leaving just two carriers. In the same year, the Affordable Care Act came within a few votes of being repealed and state officials forecasted significant rate hikes on the exchange in Utah.

This year, the forecast for the future of the exchange in Utah has been much sunnier, insurers and state officials say. Whereas on average the monthly cost of an exchange plan offered in Utah jumped 39 percent in 2018 compared to the year prior, they are set to increase just 1.6 percent on average.

Additionally, Molina Healthcare has re-entered the health exchange market for 2019 in 10 of Utah's 11 most populous counties. The survival of the Affordable Care Act also appears less tenuous for now.

"I think the exchange is stable. I think the way the carriers look at the exchange is that the numbers seem to be leveling out, so we're able to see this as a stable marketplace, a stable pool," said Chad Westover, CEO of University of Utah Health Plans.

"At least in Utah you're seeing a more stable market and that just comes with the fact that more information is available to the carriers to understand the pricing."

Like Serr, Westover is not worried about the numbers pacing slightly below last year's.

"The numbers may fluctuate year to year, but I think it's important to realize that we're reaching a point where the premiums aren't going up dramatically  in fact, our premiums (at University of Utah Health Plans) went down a little down a little bit."

Serr said it would be difficult to tell, by how hard navigators have been working recently, "that there's a few less people signing up."

"They're seeing really high demand," he said, and answering phones all day and taking people's questions about the plans they are considering buying.

Mandate nixed

The exchange, sometimes called the federal health marketplace, was established as part of the Affordable Care Act and opened for the first time in the fall of 2013. It was designed in part as a way to increase health insurance access for those who are without employer-sponsored insurance, Medicaid or Medicare  and also to help them comply with a new federal mandate requiring Americans to have coverage.

However, the financial penalty accompanying the individual mandate was dropped  or rather, technically reduced to zero dollars  with the passage of the sweeping tax Tax Cuts and Jobs Act shortly before Christmas last year.

That mandate penalty officially becomes a nonfactor 2019. When it was nullified, some health advocates were alarmed that it would mean healthy consumers would stay away from the exchange as a result, causing insurers to raise their rates.

Much of that fear has not been realized, said Tanji Northrup, deputy commissioner of the Utah Insurance Department. She said health insurers on the exchange had already "priced some of that volatility into their rates" that are in effect this year, softening the change's effect on 2019.

Plus, Norhtrup said, "I don't know to what effect to what extent the individual mandate was effective."

National landscape

Nationally, 2,424,913 people have signed up for plans on the federal exchange in the 39 states that use it as their health insurance market place, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. That is about 13 percentage points lower than the total sign-ups reported at about this time last year.

The 2017 open enrollment numbers reported this week reflect sign-ups Nov. 1 through Nov. 25, while this year's indicate those completed Nov. 1 through Nov. 24. The slight discrepancy that exists due to the fact that the federal government always reports numbers on a Wednesday, which fell one day later this year.

Of the new enrollments made this year, 588,131 are from new customers, federal data shows.

Serr said any deterrents to potential enrollees throughout the country this year are of the federal government's own making. Marketing dollars for campaigns encouraging people to enroll have lagged, Serr said, and health plan navigators, whose job it is to help people sign up for the plan that is best for them, have dwindled somewhat in number.

"Really if there is any sort of drop-off, I would attribute it directly to the drop off in marketing," he said. "The marketing has hurt."

When the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services cut advertising funding for the exchange by 90 percent in 2017 and slashed funds for enrollment navigators, it contended its move was "based on" and consistent with "previous evaluation of past exchange outreach efforts" and also argued navigator organizations signed up only a small portion of the federal exchange's total number of enrollees.

Medicaid's effect

American health insurance advocates generally see a large enrollment base as an important indicator of the relative strength of the federal health exchange, saying it is an indicator it is not just those who need the most thorough and expensive medical care who are signing up, which helps carriers keep rates reasonable and shows the insurance options offered are attractive enough to prompt purchases.

Still, according to Northrup, in the long term it is likely that enrollment in the exchange will decrease noticeably in Utah  but that has to do directly with the Medicaid expansion that the state's voters recently passed, rather than healthy people fleeing the exchange.

The expansion will make everyone in a household earning 138 percent or less of the federal poverty level eligible for Medicaid. Northrup pointed out Centers for Medicare and Medicaid data showing that 58,383 of Utahns on the exchange  about 30 percent of all the state's enrollees  live at between 100 and 150 percent of the federal poverty level.

It isn't clear from the federal data how many exchange enrollees were between 100 and 138 percent of the federal poverty level specifically.

Westover urged anyone on the fence about buying a plan from the exchange to protect themselves financially by getting covered.

"It's about covering those things that are unknown," Westover said. "Everybody is subject to the possibility of having unknown illnesses or unknown tragedies, so we all need to be covered for that, or the rest of our assets are at risk if we do not."

Correction: An earlier version of this story misspelled the first name of the deputy commissioner of the Utah Insurance Department. Her name is Tanji Northrup, not Tangie.SALT LAKE CITY  Utah policymakers might consider imposing sales tax on some previously untaxed services as changing consumer spending habits, technological advances and an aging population eat away at revenue.

The sales tax base is not keeping pace with the state's growing economy, which hurts government's ability to meet public needs. Utah currently taxes most goods but few services.

"I think there is a broad understanding that the there are structural trends that are impacting sales tax," said Natalie Gochnour, director of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah.

"There is no question we have been moving to a service economy that's not taxed like goods are."

The continued growth of online shopping also affects sales tax revenue, though a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling paves the way for states to collect on internet sales.

Gov. Gary Herbert recently said the state hasn't really considered sales tax changes because of the shifting marketplace, "but I think its something we ought to talk about now."

"Thats something were going to have to have a debate on as we look at tax reform going forward if we want to have the optimal tax policy that will allow us to have a growing, increasing, dynamic economy," he said at a November discussion at the policy institute.

Herbert is scheduled to released his 2019-20 state budget proposal next week, including some tax reform recommendations. The Utah Legislature, which controls and approves the budget, will meet in general session starting at the end of January.

The state, he said, should be looking at ways to broaden the tax and lower the rate.

"Frankly, I think there will be opportunities to do that, which well be exploring," Herbert said. "We may have a tax cut in our future if we play our cards correctly."

Paul Edwards, Herbert's deputy chief of staff, said the governor's budget proposal released next week will address Utah's reliance on sales tax, though it won't include lots of specifics because it's an issue the Legislature has to work out.

"We do need to find a way to have more of the economy contribute to what the state pays for," he said. "In doing so, it's our great hope that we can lower the rate and return some of the surplus to the taxpayer."

The governor's office, he said, sees the issue as a multiyear discussion.

Edwards said the governor would first look at eliminating sales tax exemptions and then at taxing "luxury" services, such as elective cosmetic surgery and use of limousines.

Services used to account for less than half of personal spending but now make up more than two-thirds. As consumer preferences continue to change, services will represent an even larger share of spending, according to a Gardner Policy Institute report released in November.

Utah now taxes 64 of 176 major services, putting it about in the middle of all states. It taxes amusement park admissions and hotel rooms, for example, but does not tax health care, prescription drugs, medical devices, haircuts, lawn care or legal services.

In the 2000s, the Legislature and governor cut sales, personal income and corporate income taxes and reduced the sales tax rate on food while significantly expanding the personal income tax base.

If lawmakers want to lower sales tax rates, they should consider fully taxing residential energy and food, the report says, posing the question, "Are there better ways to target those in need?"

Edwards said it's "awfully hard" to think of taxing necessary medical services and pharmaceuticals. But increasing the sales tax on food is a "wide-open discussion." Lawmakers have tried to both raise and eliminate the tax since it was lowered a dozen years ago.

Any increase in the sales tax on food, he said, would be offset in a "very direct way" with some type of subsidy or earned-income tax credit for lower wage earners.

Edwards said the governor's office recognizes that a necessity like food is much larger and critical part of a poor person's budget.

While Utahs average combined state and local sales tax rate is in the bottom third of Western states, the total tax burden is already relatively high compared to most neighboring states, according to the report.

The policy institute suggests dealing with the issue while the's state economy is strong.

"Can Utah use the prosperous time like now to address the structural problem in sales tax? The answer is yes," Gochnour said. "If we act now, can we avoid making more difficult decisions during hard economic times? The answer to that is yes."

Gochnour said if the governor's budget proposal addresses the issue and if legislators take action, it would be a "very forward-thinking move."

According to the report, policymakers have three options to prepare for future fiscal problems: cut or limit spending, change sales tax rates or broaden the sales tax base. A combination of the three might make the most sense, the report says.SALT LAKE CITY  Two years ago, faced with the happy necessity of finding a bigger office space because business, quite frankly, was booming, the Cicero Group made a tactical decision to move from the east side of town to the west side.

Part of the appeal was a vacant warehouse building at 35 N. Rio Grande St. that used to be an Old Navy store and before that an Office Depot  back when The Gateway was catering to retail  and was just waiting for a New Age architect to get his hands on it.

An even bigger part of the appeal was that the homeless shelter and soup kitchen were just down the street.

In a world where the gap between the haves and the have-nots can be as wide as the Mariana Trench, Randy Shumway wanted it to be no more than a quarter-mile.

* * *

Randy Shumway is the reason the Cicero Group exists. He started the management consulting firm not long after graduating from Harvard Business School with an MBA. He worked first in a conventional company setting in San Francisco, answering to somebody else, then found he had a knack for helping organizations grow by giving advice from the outside  and theyd still pay him, and he got to answer to himself.

He brought aboard others who had similar talent and named his consulting company after the Greek statesman-philosopher Cicero, an oracle Shumway admires.

In 2006, the Cicero Group moved from San Francisco to Salt Lake City with 18 employees and rented office space in the post office building. In 2009, with yet more employees, it moved into a bigger space at 515 E. 200 South.

That was the year Shumway went to breakfast and Pamela Atkinson forever changed the way he looked at the homeless.

Shumway was part of a group of business and community leaders who got together for breakfast once a month, people like Kirk Jowers, Natalie Gochnour, Spencer P. Eccles, Clark Ivory and others. Theyd sit around, eat omelets, network, and listen to a guest speaker theyd invite for the occasion.

On this particularly morning, the guest speaker was Atkinson, aka Saint Pamela, Salt Lake Citys patron saint of the homeless and downtrodden.

Heres what Shumway remembers of her speech:

She looks at us and she says, You know what, I look around this room and I see business leaders and government leaders and I need you each to know you can do more to help our homeless population. And if youre saying to yourself, Well, every Christmas I get a truck full of blankets and coats and drop them off at the Road Home, I want you to know youre not doing enough.

I sat there feeling a little chastised, Shumway remembers. Because thats exactly what I was doing. Every year Id say, OK, its Christmastime, lets get the kids, well go to the Army-Navy store, well buy a bunch of blankets and coats, well drop them off at the Road Home and Ill check that box.

Shumway went back to the office and started calling places that serve the homeless to see what more he could do. The St. Vincents kitchen  the dining hall that sits adjacent to the Road Home shelter on Rio Grande Street  said it sure would appreciate it if hed sponsor a breakfast on Saturday mornings several times throughout the year, supplying the food and the people to cook and serve it. He said OK. That was nine years ago. Ever since, the Shumway family and friends have done Saturday breakfast at St. Vincents.

The experience kick-started a new kind of involvement with the downtrodden. Just interacting with brothers and sisters who experienced the vicissitudes of life that I hadnt, it was life-changing, Shumway says.

What was good for him and his family, he reasoned, was also good for his company. It wasnt long before his Cicero Group partner, CEO Trent Kaufman, was doing breakfasts at St. Vincents, along with other Cicero employees.

The next step was for the Cicero Group to lend its real expertise: management consulting. Members of the firm began volunteering their services to the Road Home pro bono. They collected and crunched data and did root-cause analysis to determine better ways to manage the operation.

What the management consultant experts did day in, day out for corporations all over the world, they did for their neighbor down the street for free.

On top of that, when the state organized the Rio Grande Initiative in 2017, Shumway volunteered to chair the Dignity of Work task force, overseeing a program designed to help the homeless learn skills that will help them find and keep meaningful jobs.

* * *

Youd be hard-pressed trying to convince Shumway that championing the disenfranchised and moving into their midst  physically and emotionally  hasnt also been great for business.

Were better organizationally because of where we reside geographically, he says. If were going to help our neighbors, we dont do it by isolating them, we do it by living among them.

Morale in the organization is through the roof, he continues. Because our employees say, Im not just improving the economy by helping these companies around the world, Im also improving society by helping our vulnerable population.

He cites data that shows the average attrition rate for consulting companies is 40 percent, while at Cicero its a mere 8 percent.

Not only that, the Cicero Group, now with about 300 employees and branch offices in Dallas, Washington, D.C., and Boise, was recently lauded by Vault.com, an online site that measures such things, as the fifth-best consulting firm to work for  in the world.

Theres something the whole neighborhood can be proud of.SALT LAKE CITY  Former Vice President Joe Biden is taking his book tour to the University of Utah on Dec. 13.

The 47th vice presidents appearance was announced Monday. It is part of a university initiative that aims to enrich undergraduate students' experience.

His 2017 memoir, Promise Me, Dad, details his son Beaus struggle with a brain tumor that claimed his life in 2015.

The 76-year-old Biden was a Delaware senator for 36 years before he became vice president to Barack Obama. He last visited the Salt Lake City campus in February 2016, when he spoke at the Huntsman Cancer Institute as part of the Obama administrations Cancer Moonshot initiative, an effort to drive progress toward curing cancer.

His speech is scheduled for noon on Dec. 13 at Kingsbury Hall, 1395 Presidents Circle. Tickets for students are free and go on sale Tuesday at 10 a.m; Tickets for the general public are $10 and are limited to two per person. They can be purchased online or from the ticket office starting Friday at 10 a.m.

A university spokeswoman declined to say how much money Biden is charging for the speech. The fee is covered in part by private donations and ticket sales.

The talk will be followed by a question-and-answer session. Questions can be submitted until Dec. 7 at muse.utah.edu/biden.

The university in a statement Monday said it will give away 1,000 free copies of Biden's book starting Friday.OGDEN  The widow of a Utah mayor killed while serving in the National Guard in Afghanistan says she is dedicated to making her husband's legacy about inspiring others to a life dedicated to service and helping others.

Jennie Taylor said in a recent interview with Standard-Examiner newspaper in Ogden that her husband Brent Taylor inspired others to believe in themselves, and she's dedicated to making sure his death empowers others as well.

"I hope the legacy is in inspiring people to say, 'What's my life mission?' Brent knew very well what his was. It was community service, it was patriotic service, it was family service, it was service to God," Jennie Taylor said. "He knew very well and he tapped into that from a very young age, much younger than most people are capable of."

Taylor, 39, was killed in a Nov. 3 attack by an Afghan commando he was training, military officials said.

He had taken a yearlong leave of absence as mayor of North Ogden to train commandos as part of an effort to build the capacity of the Afghan national army.

Besides his wife, Taylor leaves behind their seven children, ranging from 1 to 13 years old.

Taylor was on his second tour to Afghanistan. A military intelligence officer with Joint Force Headquarters, he also had served two tours in Iraq.

Jennie Taylor, 39, said she doesn't know yet exactly how she'll go about establishing her husband's legacy, but said she won't waste any of the $550,000 in contributions that have come since her husband's death.

Utah's congressional delegation is pushing to rename a U.S. Veteran Affairs building in Ogden after Taylor. A separate effort is ongoing to name an amphitheater set to be built in North Ogden in his memory. It was a project he backed as mayor of the northern Utah city of about 17,000 people.

Jennie Taylor said naming the Veterans Affairs building after her husband would be appropriate.

"He viewed it as a deep honor to be counted among those willing to both live and die for our country  across generations of time," she said. "It seems fitting that now that he has given his life as a soldier, his name and legacy will live on in a facility designed to honor and care for those who have been willing to do the same."

She said she is still in shock over her husband's death and still trying to figure out what comes next, but she has already made one promise she vows to keep.

"His life will not have been lost in vain, his blood is not spilled in vain," she said. "I will dedicate the rest of my life on this earth to making sure that does not happen."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.SALT LAKE CITY  The Utah Legislature on Monday signaled overwhelming support for a sweeping medical marijuana compromise bill fraught with complexity and political risk, but which nonetheless enjoyed broad support among key groups both for and against Proposition 2.

During a special legislative session lawmakers spent weeks preparing for, both the Utah Senate and House of Representatives voted by large margins to pass a wide-ranging medical marijuana bill replacing the ballot initiative voters approved Nov. 6.

Following about two hours of debate on the House floor, the bill was approved by a 60-13 vote. Just one Republican, Rep. Michael Kennedy of Alpine, voted against the bill, while every Democrat present voted against it.

After more than 90 minutes of consideration on the Senate floor, the bill sailed through with a 22 to 4 vote. Sen. Gene Davis, D-Salt Lake City, expressed some concerns with the compromise but voted for it. Besides him, all Democrats present opposed the bill while Republicans broke uniformly in favor of it.

Passing with more than two-thirds support allows the new bill to go into effect immediately, said Senate President Wayne Niederhauser. Gov. Gary Herbert announced Monday evening he had signed the bill, saying Utah "now has the best-designed medical cannabis program in the country."

"Working with trained medical professionals, qualified patients in Utah will be able to receive quality-controlled cannabis products from a licensed pharmacist in medical dosage form. And this will be done in a way that prevents diversion of product into a black market.

"This is an example of how collaboration makes Utah the best-managed state in the nation. Proponents and opponents came together to honor the voice of Utah voters who compassionately stood up for Utah patients. They provided for access to medical cannabis, while closing loopholes that have created significant problems in other states that have legalized medical cannabis."

Utah House Speaker Greg Hughes believes Monday's votes make Utah's medical marijuana program "structurally stronger and politically stronger" than it would have otherwise been.

"I think what you've seen here is extraordinary, and I think it's needed, frankly," Hughes told the Deseret News. "If we're going to get it done right you can't put your head in the sand and wait for the consequences to come."

The decisive votes Monday come about two months after major players for and against Proposition 2 announced an agreement to support the core contents of a sweeping compromise bill that would essentially replace the initiative. At the same time, Herbert announced he would call a special session to get the compromise legislation passed.

The consensus was reached after dozens of hours of private negotiations convened by Hughes, R-Draper. The groups in those talks were the Proposition 2 campaign itself, called the Utah Patients Coalition; Libertas Institute, which had supported the initiative; and influential anti-Proposition 2 groups the Utah Medical Association and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In a statement Monday evening, Marty Stephens, director of community and government relations for the church, said, "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints welcomed the opportunity to participate in a broad community effort to alleviate pain and suffering.

"Today the passage of the Utah Medical Cannabis Act once again shows how organizations with diverse interests can come together to resolve difficult issues for the benefit of those who suffer while simultaneously protecting our children. We thank the leadership of the state, the medical professionals, patients advocates, law enforcement and the many others who made this effort possible."

Hughes told his fellow lawmakers he is proud of the efforts that brought together opposing sides and crafted a bill that each could hold up as worth supporting. He said he also stands by the process of refining the compromise, which involved multiple, lengthy public hearings, as well as private meetings between legislators.

"The bill you have before you today is a product in large part of the ongoing public input," Hughes said on the House floor.

Sen. Evan Vickers, R-Cedar City, who co-sponsored the bill in the Senate, said it "allows for medical professionals to be dealing with the patient all the way through."

"I think this (bill) does that," Vickers said on the senate floor. "It's just time to move forward, and let's get it done."

Utah patients group Together for Responsible Use and Cannabis Education promised it wasn't giving up its fight to preserve Proposition 2 as much as possible, with founder Christine Stenquist saying she will be "moving forward" with a lawsuit on the issue.

Stenquist said the lawsuit could be filed as soon as Tuesday through attorney Rocky Anderson, a former Salt Lake City mayor, who has already served notice to sue.

"The citizens of Utah jumped through the hoops that they needed to jump through to pass an initiative and the first business day (that it is in effect) you undermine and you remove our voice. That's a problem," Stenquist told reporters at the state Capitol.

Together for Responsible Use and Cannabis Education, along with the Epilepsy Association of Utah, have argued the compromise bill makes patient access to medical marijuana significantly more difficult.

Proposition 2, which became law Saturday and made medical marijuana available to patients with certain qualifying illnesses, passed with support from nearly 53 percent of Utah voters.

The compromise bill sponsored by Hughes proposes significant changes to how medical marijuana could legally be recommended, sold and consumed. It removes a hotly contested provision allowing patients living a certain distance from a dispensary to grow up to six marijuana plants.

It also narrows a controversial provision that gives a person an "affirmative defense" to marijuana use or possession charges if they can prove their medical need despite not possessing a medical cannabis card.

Floor debate

In the debate over Hughes' bill, Democrats' main refrain Monday was that doing so would be disrespectful to the ballot initiative process that made Proposition 2 the law in Utah.

Rep. Rebecca Chavez-Houck, D-Salt Lake City, said she would ask for "the members of this body to stay in our lane. The voters have spoken."

"We don't need to hyper regulate the lives of patients and providers," Chavez-Houck said.

Sen. Jim Dabakis, D-Salt Lake City, said voting for a bill to supersede Proposition 2 shows "a level of arrogance we ought not to display to the rest of the state."

"This body has its own opinion and I respect that, but I ask that this body respect the will of the voters (from) where we get our power," Dabakis said.

However, a pair of bills Dabakis presented as substitutes to Hughes' bill  one of them making only technical changes  were handily defeated. So was a proposed bill substitute introduced by Chavez-Houck.

Rep. Merrill Nelson, R-Grantsville, pushed back at the notion that a ballot initiative is incontrovertible once passed. Just like the people have lawmaking powers, so do the legislators they elect, Nelson said.

"We have the right to override what the people do by initiative. Now, we don't do that willy-nilly. The only reason we're here today is we see errors in the initiative passed by the people  we see (excesses)," Nelson said.

Sen. Lyle Hillyard was among a handful of legislators to say he didn't feel compelled to preserve a ballot initiative that most of the people in his jurisdiction voted against.

"I  could be justified on (my constituents') vote to vote to repeal Proposition 2, period," Hillyard said, though he was quick to add that was never something he planned to do.

Hillyard also said he was skeptical of arguments made by some Proposition 2 supporters that the process for drafting the compromise bill was secretive.

"I don't know how many here sat through the drafting of Proposition 2," Hillyard said.

Amendments fail

The majority of legislators resisted multiple attempts to materially amend the bill.

In the House, Rep. Brian Greene, R-American Fork, wanted to remove a provision requiring patients ages 18 to 20 who wish to get a medical cannabis card to get additional approval  beyond that of their doctor  from the state-appointed Compassionate Use Board.

Greene said requiring governmental approval of what amounts to a prescription inappropriately gets between adult patients and their doctor.

"This is a terrible precedent to set where we're going to require the approval of a the governmental board in  what our doctor has prescribed to us," Greene said.

However, Hughes and others pushed back saying the extra requirement was put in place as a precaution in light of research showing THC, marijuana's active ingredient, can be harmful to young people's developing brains.

Greene's amendment failed to gain enough support.

In the Senate, Sen. Luz Escamilla, D-Salt Lake City, pushed to get an amendment requiring members of the state-appointed Compassionate Use Board be subject to senators' confirmation.

"This will be a critical group of individuals," Escamilla said.

But her proposed amendment fell short, too, even though Vickers and others said they could support the idea in the general legislative session.

Implications for patients

So, when may Utahns legally use medical cannabis?

"Right now," Hughes said. "It is no longer illegal in the eyes of the state to access medical cannabis."

A resident, though, must be under the supervision of a doctor who recommended medical marijuana and the drug must be taken in dosage form. That means eligible patients under could go to neighboring Colorado or Nevada and bring medical marijuana into the state without violating Utah law.

Hughes said police might cite people for marijuana possession even under those circumstances, but if they can prove they were meeting the requirements, "you are not committing a crime."

"We like our system better than that system, so that's kind of the race to get the state system up and running," Hughes said.

Setting up the state central fill dispensary system and establishing state-licensed cannabis pharmacies are still down the road.

Changes made

Some of the other significant adjustments the compromise bill makes compared to Proposition 2 are as follows:

 Removes Proposition 2 language permitting anyone with "an autoimmune disorder" to qualify for a medical cannabis card.

 Requires businesses selling medical marijuana to employ a licensed pharmacist, changes the name from dispensaries to pharmacies, and allows fewer such businesses to operate in the state.

 Limits the authorized forms of medical marijuana consumption to a capsule, chewable or dissolvable gelatin cube, concentrated oil, liquid suspension, skin patch, sublingual pill, or in limited circumstances, a resin or wax.

 Removes a restriction on landlords prohibiting them from refusing to rent to a person on the sole basis that they are a medical cannabis cardholder.PROVO  Additional criminal charges were filed Monday against an Orem collector of Latter-day Saint artifacts accusing him of stealing rare photos from university libraries.

Kevin Mark Ronald Schuwer, 29, is charged in 4th District Court with engaging in a pattern of unlawful activity, a second-degree felony, plus theft and theft by deception, both third-degree felonies.

He is accused of stealing eight books and a historical picture from the BYU Library's Special Collection area, according to court documents.

"He took the books by checking them out, removing the bar codes on them, placing the bar code into another book, and then returning the errantly coded book to the library. He took the picture by replacing the original with a photograph of the original picture," charging documents state.

Schuwer removed an original photo of Porter Rockwell from its protective sleeve and replaced it with a fake copy of the same picture, according to a search warrant affidavit previously served by BYU police. Schuwer then allegedly sold the original photo to a collector in Utah County for $2,000.

Last week, Schuwer was charged in Logan's 1st District Court with theft and burglary, both third-degree felonies, for allegedly stealing "a portrait of a prominent LDS apostle, Orson F. Whitney" from the Utah State University Library Special Collections and Archives, according to charging documents.

Utah County prosecutors noted the active Cache County case in their court documents and also that Schuwer was under investigation "for stealing a historical picture from the Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum" in Salt Lake City "and selling it to a collector in California," the charges state.

The warrant says Schuwer is accused of stealing a Porter Rockwell picture from the Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum.

Schuwer was arrested on Oct. 30 by BYU police. That same day, a "judgment by confession" was entered against Schuwer in 4th District Court ordering him to pay $694,701 to a man to whom he sold a counterfeit 1835 Latter-day Saint hymnal and a counterfeit 1849 Mormon gold coin, according to the affidavit.

A judgment of confession is used when "the defendant is confessing to the conduct and to the judgment in an effort to pay the plaintiff the amount wrongfully obtained by him from plaintiff, and to avoid the costs of litigation and likely punitive damage claims," the affidavit states.SALT LAKE CITY  More than $1.3 billion in new state revenue will be available for the next legislative session, which could mean a significant infusion for education, according to projections released Monday by Utah's governor and legislative leaders.

Consensus projections suggest there will be $675 million in new ongoing funding and $646 million in new one-time funding to be available for fiscal year 2020, according to a joint statement by Utah Gov. Gary Herbert, Senate President Wayne Niederhauser and House Speaker Greg Hughes.

The revenues reflect the strength of Utah's economy, Herbert said.

I'm grateful for the strong economic performance that has created this revenue growth. As we head into the legislative session, we look forward to investing a sizable portion of this money in education while also returning a sizable portion of these revenues to the taxpayer, he said.

State economists project of the total ongoing estimate, $187 million will accrue to the General Fund with the remaining $488 million going to the Education Fund. They also project $67 million of the one-time revenue will be deposited in the General Fund and about $580 million in the Education Fund, according to the statement.

Utah Senate President-elect Stuart Adams, R-Layton, said the projected boost in revenues speaks to the strength of Utah's private sector.

"We're not going to spend it all, that's the first thing," Adams said.

Lawmakers intend to take a pragmatic approach to the projected revenue increase because they respect that the money comes from taxpaying businesses and individuals, he said.

"This means the private sector is doing well and we need to make sure the private sector continues to do well so we can continue to have the money we need to fund these government services. We'll be very smart with it. We've seen cycles before. It's apparent we're at the top of the cycle. We'll be prudent with those tax dollars," he said.

Education remains a top priority for lawmakers along with funding Medicaid, he said. While the increase in revenue allows the state to address pressing needs, it is important to keep an eye on the future, Adams said.

"We need to do it in a responsible way that anticipates what may be coming in the future," he said

The revenue projections were welcome news to state and local school superintendents, who learned about the numbers during a meeting of their statewide association Monday.

"The reaction was a very robust, Wow!," said Terry Shoemaker, executive director of the Utah School Superintendents Association.

"We've not seen such a thing, so were just kind of absorbing it right now and we're not sure exactly where this is going to go. Weve seen large surpluses in the past, and estimates in the past, but were excited about its potential. Well just have to see where it goes," he said.

The association has many recommendations for ongoing funding: $36 million for enrollment growth; $5 million for transportation; $500,000 for Necessarily Existent Small Schools and $30 million to hire additional personnel as part of a new school safety initiative.

Another ask is to increase the value of the weighted-pupil unit by 5.5 percent. The WPU is the basic building block of education funding.

Recently, the Utah State Board of Education proposed to lawmakers spending $164 million in one-time funding on upgrades to schools to enhance safety. The association is seeking about $65 million, he said.

Given the positive revenue projections, Utah Commissioner of Higher Education Dave Buhler said "the board of regents is hopeful the Legislature will consider all of its budget requests, including operating as well as capital priorities."

One key priority is placing a college adviser in every public high school in Utah, he said.

"This $6 million statewide program would ensure all high school students receive guidance on applying to college and for financial aid, and is proven to move the needle on college enrollment rates of high school grads by as much as 9 percent. An investment of this kind will change Utahs education landscape for generations to come, Buhler said.

Hughes noted in the statement that it is "no accident that Utah's economy is expanding. We have many entrepreneurs, we have created an environment for businesses to thrive and we are fiscally conservative.

He added: We must invest these short-term gains in fiscally prudent ways to ensure Utahs continued success.

Contributing: Dennis RomboyOGDEN  City cameras captured dramatic video of a shootout between police and a man wanted for aggravated kidnapping who opened fire on officers.

Richard Galvan, 37, shot at two Ogden police officers  one from just a few feet away Friday night near the city's popular Christmas Village.

"During the exchange of gunfire, the suspect was struck in the head by a round and was immediately incapacitated," said Ogden Police Chief Randy Watt.

Amazingly, no officers were injured.

"We're grateful none of our officers were harmed. And we're proud of the courage and dedication they showed in ending this life-threatening situation," he said.

No bystanders were injured in the incident.

Both officers remained on standard paid administrative leave Monday pending the outcome of an investigation by Weber County. Watt said officers were wearing body cameras that night. As of Monday, that video from the incident had not been publicly released.

But over the weekend, Ogden police did release video from city and traffic cameras that recorded the deadly confrontation.

Galvan, a documented member of a national gang with an extensive criminal history, moved to the Ogden area about a year ago, Watt said. Recently, a woman he had met on social media told him to stay away from her, according to Watt.

Friday morning, "she awoke to find him in her home and armed," the chief said.

Galvan wouldn't let the woman leave her home. And when he did, it was only to drive him around, Watt said. While driving, Watt said the woman described Galvan as going through several mood swings, ranging from suicidal to making threatening remarks.

About 6 p.m., near 28th and Washington Boulevard, Galvan got out of the woman's vehicle. She quickly sped off and flagged down the first officer she spotted, honking her horn and flashing her brights to get his attention, Watt said. The woman told the officer that she had been kidnapped, that Galvan was armed, and that "he told her the gun was for protection against the cops," Watt said.

Ogden police spotted Galvan using traffic cameras, and a nearby officer responded to the area of 25th Street and Washington Boulevard. In the video, Galvan is seen with his back turned to the officer and walking into an alley near Christmas Village. As the officer approached, Galvan came out of the alley, "then turned directly back toward the officer, drew a .45-caliber handgun from his waistband and began firing at the police officer," Watt said.

The officer returned fire. Galvan's attention was then drawn to a second officer who drove up in his patrol car. Galvan fired several rounds at the car, with one bullet striking the windshield directly inline with the officer, but did not penetrate the glass, the chief said. The officer quickly got out of his car, took cover behind the rear of the vehicle and returned fire.

Watt said Galvan spent eight years in a Colorado prison on a conviction of aggravated kidnapping and threatening police with a gun. At the time of Friday's shooting, he was wanted in Colorado and El Paso, Texas, for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in each of those states, Watt said.

Correction: An earlier version said a bullet did not penetrate the officer's windshield because it was bulletproof. It is unclear if the windshield was bulletproof.SALT LAKE CITY  Criminal charges have been filed against a man accused of randomly attacking a pair of Hispanic men at a local tire store because they were from Mexico, court documents say.

Alan Dale Covington, 50, who is homeless, was charged Friday in 3rd District Court with aggravated assault, a second-degree felony; aggravated assault and possession of a dangerous weapon by a restricted person, third-degree felonies; drug possession, a class A misdemeanor; and possession of drug paraphernalia, a class B misdemeanor.

According to Veronica Lopez, her brother Luis Gustavo Lopez, 18, and her father Jose Lopez, 51, were at work eating breakfast on Nov. 27 and getting ready to open their tire store for the day when Covington entered and asked if they were Mexican.

"I  hate Mexicans. Are you in the Mexican mafia? Im here to kill a Mexican. Im here to kill you guys, Lopez said Convington told the group.

Charging documents say Covington went into Lopez Tires, 1621 S. Main, stating "I'm going to kill someone" before swinging a "four-sided metal pole."

Veronica Lopez said her brother was struck in the head by the pole, knocking him to the floor. She said her father used his body to protect his son, absorbing blows in the back.

"If my dad hadnt been there to shield my brother, my brother would have sustained those other blows to the face and I dont know if he could have (survived) those injuries, she said.

Luis Lopez was not responsive and was bleeding from his face when emergency crews arrived. He was taken to a local hospital where during a three-hour surgery a metal plate was put in place of his shattered cheek bone, according to his sister. The plate was also used to hold his eyeball in place, she said.

The family is hoping he'll make a full recovery.

Jose Lopez received eight stitches and numerous bruises on his back from blocking the blows to his son, Veronica Lopez said.

After he was arrested, Covington told Salt Lake police that "the Mexican Mafia had been after him since 2008" and he went to the tire store because "all of them know each other," the charges state.

He later reaffirmed that he went to the store because "the owners were from Mexico" and "he knew they were Mexican," according to the charges.

Covington has an extensive criminal history, court records show.

Veronica Lopez said she was told because of the way Utah statutes are written that with two felonies being filed against Covington, a hate crime charge cannot be filed. But to Lopez, there's no question that's what happened.

"Theres no other way to describe it. This was a hate crime," she said. "I dont know how much more of a hate crime it has to be.

Now Lopez hopes uthorities are able to keep Covington in jail so he doesn't have the chance to harm anyone else.

"He was out to kill that day, she said.

Lopez said her father and brother do not have health insurance. A GoFundme fundraiser was set up by a friend to help pay for their medical expenses.

"This is for Luis and his father, Jose. Lets show them that there are WAY more good and kind people out there than the evil man that attacked them. All donations will help go to their medical bills and financial support while Luis is unable to work in the shop with his father," the site says.Mobile carrier payment solutions provider RGK Mobile has partnered with two major Latin American operator groups to expand its presence in the region.

Until now, RGK Mobile has had a stronger focus on Europe and Asia-Pacific. It has formed the new agreements via Aldeamo, one of Latin Americas leading carrier technology aggregators. For mobile service in Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua, and Ecuador, RGK has partnered with America Movils Mexican unit Claro Mobile. It has reached a separate deal with Tigo Mobile covering El Salvador and Honduras.

RGK Mobile offers mobile carriers a complete suite of payment technologies, connecting them directly to leading mobile service providers and creating new revenue channels which helps to ensure customer longevity and loyalty in highly competitive markets. Through the agreement with Aldeamo, RGK will be providing Claro and Tigo with a premium SMS billing technology.

The companys unique billing processing technology allows for seamless and safe carrier billing, with only one or two clicks. With RGK, customers no longer need credit cards for mobile purchases. Rather, they simply click to confirm a purchase and are charged directly to their mobile operator bill. This eliminates the complexity and hassle of credit cards, avoiding processing errors and mistyping and making the process safer and more suitable for developing economies wherein credit card usage is not prevalent.

The deal with Aldeamo marks a milestone for RGK Mobile, signifying our first thrust into the Latin American market. While well-known for its regulatory complexities, we see the region as a promising platform for both operator billing and mobile services, and with the local know-how Aldeamo possess and our own expertise in mobile payments, Im convinced that we are in for a long-term collaboration said Roman Taranov, co-founder and CEO, RGK Mobile.A recent report by 9to5Google suggested that Google could soon shut shop for its Hangouts service by 2020. This has been deemed incorrect by Google Real Time Communications' Product Lead Scott Johnston on Twitter. Hangouts, in a sense, is not going away as users will be getting an upgrade to Hangouts Chat and Hangouts Meet. Additionally, Johnston says that no decisions have been made about when Hangouts will be shut down.

In a reply to his tweet, Johnston also said that since Google Hangout users will be migrated to Chat and Meet, the current service will eventually be shut down. It doesn't imply we are ending support for the use case supported by the product: messaging and meetings, Johnston added. Hangouts Chat and Meet services are available only for G Suite enterprise users and it remains to be seen how the company will transition regular Google account holders that are using Hangouts. To recall, Hangouts was introduced by Google back in 2014 and it took over the company's previous messaging services like Talk and Messenger. In 2015, Google introduced a standalone website for the service, which negated the need for installation of any additional plugin.

2/ So while that will result in the eventual shut down of Hangouts classic (as we now call it), it doesn't imply we are ending support for the use case supported by the product: messaging and meetings.  Scott Johnston (@happyinwater) December 1, 2018

Earlier this year, Google announced that it's Smart Reply feature will soon be rolled out for Hangouts. The feature generates automated replies by analysing the context of a conversation. Alongside the announcement, Google said that the Smart Reply feature powers more than 10 percent of email replies.

The news of Hangouts evolving into Meet and Chat comes just a couple of months after the company announced it's shutting down Google+ for consumers following security concerns. The Mountain View-based company found a bug that granted developers access to users Profile data, and the public Profile information of their friends. Additionally, it found limited engagement on the platform and as a result of these findings, the company has decided to shut down Google+ for consumers.Jet Airways forced to cancel 14 flights as unpaid pilots report sick

Beleaguered Jet Airways, which announced plans to withdraw flight services on as many as seven Gulf routes from this month, on Sunday cancelled 14 flights after unpaid employees reported sick, reports quoting sources said.

Jet Airways, which is struggling to keep itself afloat in the wake of a dismal financial performance in the last three quarters, said its management is trying to resolve and is currently discussing the ongoing crisis over unpaid salaries and other issues with employees.

Some pilots reported sick on Sunday leading to the cancellation of flights, according to a PTI report. The airlines spokesperson, however, said the cancellations were due to unforeseen operational issues and not due to pilot non-cooperation.

Would like to reiterate that the reason for cancellations of 2nd Dec flights was due to an unforeseen operational circumstance and not pilot non-cooperation, as being unduly speculated, the loss-making airline said.

The management is in regular dialogue with pilots and other teams to discuss and resolve on-going issues including disbursement of salaries, it added.

"As many as 14 flights were cancelled after some pilots reported sick protesting against non-payment of salary, dues and the indifferent attitude of the National Aviator's Guild (NAG) in taking up the issue with the management," PTI had yesterday quoted an unnamed source as saying.

NAG is the pilot body of domestic flights in the airline of which nearly 1000 pilots are members.

The Naresh Goyal-controlled airline will withdraw its flight services on as many as seven Gulf routes from this month, halting as many as 39 services per week to Doha, Muscat, Abu Dhabi and Dubai from various Indian cities, an airline source was quoted as saying.

Jet Airways said Gulf operations are being optimised to focus on connectivity at its hubs in Mumbai and Delhi instead of point-to-point connectivity. The airline also said it will be enhancing frequency on Mumbai-Doha, Delhi-Doha as well as Mumbai-Dubai routes.

"Jet Airways has undertaken a comprehensive review of its network, whereby it will move capacity from uneconomical routes to more profitable ones, to more closely align the capacity offered with the demand characteristics of specific markets," Jet Airways said in a statement.

"It is important to note that the scale of the airline's operations will remain unaffected," it added.

The airline has been defaulting on its payments of salaries to pilots, senior management and engineers since August owing to cash crunch. The airline has partially paid the salaries of the staff members for September while October and November salaries are yet to be disbursed.

Jet Airways posted a net loss of Rs1,261 crore during the September quarter. This was the airline's third successive quarterly loss. Amid cash paucity, it has been defaulting on salary payments to 15 per cent of its workforce, primarily senior management, pilots and engineers.US, China reach 90-day truce on trade tariffs

The United States and China on Saturday announced a 90-day truce on new penal tariffs imposed on each others products following widening trade disputes that has rattled markets and threatened to stunt global economic growth.

The breakthrough came after a working dinner attended by US President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Trump's national security adviser John Bolton with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit in Buenos Aires on Saturday.

Trump agreed to hold off on plans to raise tariffs 1 January on $200 billion in Chinese goods. The Chinese agreed to buy a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial amount of agricultural, energy, industrial and other products from the United States to reduce Americas huge trade deficit with China, the White House said.

The truce buys time for the two countries to work out their differences in a dispute over Beijings aggressive drive to supplant US technological dominance.

The two countries also agreed to label fentanyl, the deadly synthetic opioid responsible for tens of thousands of American drug deaths annually, as a controlled substance.

The White House announcement said the truce agreement is a victory for Trump as it secures a commitment from China to engage in talks on key US economic priorities, with little obvious concession by the US.

The White House, however, appears to be making a climb-down from its previous threats to tie trade discussions to security concerns, like Chinas attempted territorial expansion in the South China Sea.

Trump, however, cancelled a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin over mounting tensions between Russia and Ukraine. He also cancelled a Saturday news conference, citing respect for the Bush family following the death of former President George HW Bush.

Trump said Bushs death put a damper on what he described as a very important meeting with Xi.

White house has imposed import taxes on $250 billion of Chinese products  25 per cent on $50 billion worth and 10 per cent on the other $200 billion. Trump had planned to raise the tariffs on the $200 billion to 25 per cent if he couldnt get a deal with Xi.

China, on the other hand, has slapped tariffs on $110 billion of US goods.

Under the agreement reached in Buenos Aires, the two countries have 90 days to resolve their differences over Beijings tech policies. If they cant, the US tariff increases will go into effect on the $200 billion in Chinese imports.

While the exact extend of the impact of the trade war is not known, there is growing concern s that the trade war will increasingly hurt corporate earnings and the US economy.

And, despite Chinas tough posture, Chinas high-tech industry will take a big hit if the US market becomes inaccessible for its products.Vincent Campbell was immense in his contribution to the traditional fiddle music of Donegal and his recent death will leave a void in musical circles across the region and further afield.

Aidan O'Donnell said that Vincent was instrumental in connecting generations through music and that he had a style of playing that was 'unique and individual.'

"He was central to the rejuvenation of fiddle music in this region. If it had not been for Vincie - the tradition of Donegal fiddle music could have died and would definitely be much poorer. He carried techniques from the older generations and brought them to new generations," he said.

During his lifetime, Vincent played with some of the most prominent traditional fiddle players in England among these players were John and James Kelly.

Vincent preserved the sophisticated art of fiddle playing from older fiddle players, such as, Mickey and John Doherty and preserved it for younger fiddle players.

"He was a unique player, an individual, a national figure in terms of traditional music," Aidan said.

Those who begin to learn the fiddle are traditionally taught two tunes when they are at a certain level - one of these tunes is Vincent Campbell's Mazurka - it promises that his music and his love of music will continue to live on eternally.

Ciaran O Maonaigh said that the contribution that Vincent Campbell made to the tradition should and could never be underestimated.

O'Maonaigh said that over the years Vincent played with some of the musical greats of the nation.

"Vincent lived in Meath for a time and during that time he played a few gigs with Ronnie Drew. In later years, Ronnie Drew and the Dubliners were established," he said.

O'Maonaigh said that his music has been recorded and captivated through both radio and TV broadcasts.

"When Sean O'Riada recorded the 'Our Musical Heritage' on Radio Ireland it was both John Doherty and Vincent Campbell he chose to display the tradition of this region. He had a repertoire that few other people had. He was the carrier of music from an age gone by. His loss was will certainly be felt in this area and further afield," he said.

Both O'Maonaigh and O'Donnell described Vincent as being more than a musician. Both agree that he was immense in the transition of folklore and carried with him an abundance of social history.

"A giant of social history has passed away," O'Donnell said.

The Requiem Mass of Vincent Campbell will take place at St Connell's Church, Glenties at 2pm on Tuesday.First Trial Launches to Test Effectiveness of Male Contraceptive Gel

NEW YORK, NY November 28, 2018 - The Population Council, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, and University of Washington School of Medicine today announced the launch of the first clinical trial to test the safety and efficacy of a gel for men to prevent unintended pregnancy. Three trial sites in the U.S. are now enrolling couples.

Worldwide, 85 million pregnancies (40 percent of all pregnancies) per year are unplanned, contributing to a higher incidence of adverse health outcomes for women and infants. Apart from condom use, withdrawal during sex, and vasectomy, no other contraceptive options exist for men.

The gel being tested is composed of Nestorone (segesterone acetate), a progestin hormone used for female contraception, and testosterone. NES/T is a novel, reversible contraceptive for men designed to be absorbed through the skin on the upper arms and shoulders.

Expanding male contraceptive options could help make family planning more of a shared responsibility between women and men, said Regine Sitruk-Ware, MD, distinguished scientist at the Population Councils nonprofit Center for Biomedical Research, co-director of the trial, and member of Time Magazines 50 Most Influential People in Health Care of 2018. Safe, effective, and reversible tools for men to control their own fertility gives new meaning and significance to the term family planning. No matter the challenge, we must continue to innovate and develop new products to improve lives.

The Phase IIb trial, sponsored by the NICHD, part of the National Institutes of Health, and co-directed by the Population Council and NICHD, is the first to test the product for contraceptive efficacy, or pregnancy prevention, in the female partner. More than 400 couples are anticipated to enroll in the trial. Once the male partner has been shown to have responded to the gel, the couple agrees to use the product as their contraceptive method for one full year. The trial is recruiting couples throughout the NICHDs Contraceptive Clinical Trials Network (CCTN). It is first launching at sites in Los Angeles, Seattle, and Kansas City in the US, and later will include sites in Chile, England, Italy, Kenya, Scotland, and Sweden.

We have been developing this product for more than a decade, said Diana Blithe, PhD, chief of NICHDs Contraceptive Development Program and director of the CCTN. We are hopeful that the NES/T gel study will demonstrate effectiveness of a male method for use by couples. A successful result may lead to additional scientific discovery around contraceptive products for men.

The NES/T gel is a transparent gel designed to decrease a mans sperm production without reducing his sexual drive or enjoyment. The trial will also test the acceptability of the daily gel application as a contraceptive among the participating couplesa critical measure for real-world use.

The success of a reversible contraceptive for men requires an approach that reduces the production of sperm without impacting a mans testosterone levels or ability to produce sperm at a later date, said Christina Wang, MD, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute lead researcher and a principal investigator of the trial. The challenge is achieving the right combination of Nestorone and testosterone at the right time.

Men and their female partners are both active participants in the study. Men will apply the gel once every day. Once the mans sperm count reaches an appropriate level to prevent pregnancya process anticipated to take 8 to 16 weeks, the couple will be informed that they should begin to use the gel as their only form of contraception for one year. During this phase, the mans sperm count will be checked regularly to help minimize the possibility of pregnancy.

The potential of this new gel is huge, said William Bremner, MD, PhD, professor of medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine and CCTN site director in Seattle. There is a misperception that men are not interested in, or are even afraid of, tools to control their own fertility. We know thats not the case.

Previous multinational surveys have shown that more than half of men say they would use a male contraceptive if it is reversible and uncomplicated. Proving efficacy and acceptability is essential to overcoming misperceptions that men arent interested in new contraceptive options.

We hope that results from this trial will help pave the way for renewed interest in male contraceptive development and propel this important public health work forward, said Stephanie Page, MD, PhD, a professor of medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine and a study principal investigator.

Results from the NES/T gel trial are expected in 2022 and will help determine whether it should be evaluated in a separate, larger-scale Phase III contraceptive efficacy clinical trial, with the aim of obtaining approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to market the product as a male contraceptive.

About the Population Council

The Population Council confronts critical health and development issuesfrom stopping the spread of HIV to improving reproductive health and ensuring that young people lead full and productive lives. Through biomedical, social science, and public health research in 50 countries, we work with our partners to deliver solutions that lead to more effective policies, programs, and technologies that improve lives around the world. Established in 1952 and headquartered in New York, the Council is a nongovernmental, nonprofit organization governed by an international board of trustees.

About the Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute

LA BioMed is an incubator of innovation with a global reach and a 66-year reputation of improving and saving lives. Driven by the positive social impacts of breakthrough therapies, the Southern California-based research institute and incubatorwith over 100 principal investigators (PhDs, MDs, and MD/PhDs) working on over 600 research studies, including therapies for multiple orphan diseasesis an essential element to one of the nations top-ten biotech clusters. Find out more at https://labiomed.org.

About the University of Washington School of Medicine

The University of Washington School of Medicine is recognized for excellence in training physicians and for advancing medical knowledge through scientific research. For 23 of the past 24 years, it has been ranked No. 1 in the United States for primary-care education. The school also is the leading public institution in the amount of federal research funding received, based on the U.S. News accounting of National Institutes of Health funding. Find out more at https://www.uwmedicine.org/education/about.

Source: The Population CouncilPlease allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content.

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Support our mission and join our community now.Employers and employees across Australia are in full preparation mode to celebrate a year of hard work with a Christmas party or social function. As well as making sure everyone has a good time, employers and their staff need to be aware of some of the risks that can arise through social interaction outside the usual work environment, particularly when a drink or two is involved.

We encourage employers to host a Christmas party or end of year function for employees to celebrate their achievements, says Senior Employment Relations Adviser from Employsure, Jessica Lestrange. They just need to consider the risks that can come about in these situations. Many owner-managers dont realise, but a lot of the legislation which they have to adhere to during the working day applies just as equally to Christmas parties, and ignoring it could lead to costly and time-consuming legal issues, she said.

Even if employees decide to kick on with an after party, Lestrange says, Employers need to be vigilant in meeting their duty of care.

Sexual harassment.

If the work Christmas party is organised and paid for by the employer, the obligations generally remain the same as though it was in the workplace. Employers are therefore advised to clearly outline what is inappropriate behaviour and what the repercussions can be if misconduct takes place, she said.

The Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) says that the definition of the workplace  and therefore what constitutes workplace sexual harassment  has become broad due to the increase in digital technology, such as email and social media, which means our working hours are no longer limited to 9-5pm.

Inappropriate sexual behaviour can be a major issue when people are drinking, Touching people inappropriately on the dancefloor is a classic example, she adds.

Consumption of alcohol (or drugs).

The festive atmosphere also means there is a high chance of alcohol in the mix, which brings with it additional challenges for employers. For health and safety purposes and in an attempt to reduce the chances of inappropriate conduct, Lestrange says employers should ensure the service of alcohol is responsible and employees have plenty access to water and food, You might also consider an early cut-off time for the service of alcohol.

Employers need to apply the same zero tolerance approach about the use of illegal drugs. Being under the influence also includes illegal drugs; so, your drugs and alcohol policy needs to be clear on this, defining what under the influence means to your business and making this clear from the outset.

Getting home safe.

The potential consequences for employers found to be negligent should not be underestimated. If an employee is injured on their way home from the function, the employer could be faced with a workers compensation claim. The seriousness of these issues should be enough to encourage employers to take proactive steps to educate and supervise their team. Making appropriate transport arrangements is a highly effective way to minimise the risk: If someone gets too intoxicated, send them home safely straight away. Dont let them get behind the wheel.

Ruined reputations.

Professional and business reputations are at risk. Imagine the difficulty a boss would have managing their team if they drunkenly share inappropriate information about their love life. Other examples might include bumping and grinding on the dancefloor or a solo attempt on the karaoke microphone. Another good policy to refer to is the Social Media policy to avoid any inappropriate posts from your employees.

Final word of advice.

The Christmas party is supposed to reward staff for their hard work, and business owners should stress that before laying down the law, Dont kill the fun  remind employees it is an enjoyable celebration, and that employees who do not adhere to the policy or code of conduct, spoil the party for everyone, she said.

Careful and thoughtful planning can help eliminate the risks in advance and ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time.

For employees, Lestrange says the bottom line is: No matter how much fun youre having, youre still officially at work.

Jessica Lestrange, Senior Employment Relations Adviser, Employsure.By Trend





Irans Minister of Communications and Information Technology Mohammad Javad Azari Jahrami will visit Azerbaijan Dec. 3 to attend the 24th Azerbaijan International Telecommunications, Innovations and High Technologies Exhibition and Conference Bakutel 2018, Iranian Embassy in Azerbaijan told Trend.

The Iranian minister is expected to visit the exhibition and make speech at the Caspian Innovation Conference.

He is also expected to participate in a four-party meeting of communication ministers of Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia and Iran.

Jahrami will also hold bilateral meetings with these ministers to discuss relations with these countries and exchange views on the development of bilateral cooperation.

Fourteen Iranian companies will participate in the 24th Azerbaijan International Telecommunications, Innovations and High Technologies Exhibition and Conference.Michigan, where our GOP is almost as bad as Wisconsins

Its not just Wisconsin. After Michigan Republicans had their worst statewide wipe-out since 1938, the profoundly (and illegally) gerrymandered GOP State House and Senate have launched a smash-and-grab attack on our democracy, our workers, our wetlands and  even!  our puppies.

Its the worst Ive seen, said Mark Brewer, former Michigan Democratic Party Chair told the GOTMFV Show.

In November, Michiganders voted to give themselves much easier access to the polls with historic set of ballot reforms that go into effect in 2020 and an independent redistricting committee that will decide electoral maps for 2021. Recognizing that their anti-democratic hold on the state is at definite risk, Republicans are doing everything they can to extend that hold and punish the voters who came out en masse to rip it from them.

The Sore Loser Session of the Michigan House and Senate assaults on democracy will be challenged in the courts and, possibly, on future ballots, where the extraordinarily popular proposals voters wanted, like legal pot, are being gutted by extraordinarily unpopular Republican politicians.

But this assault must also be challenged directly now, so  at the very least  Michiganders know how badly theyre being ripped off. And this is only possible because maps have given a minority of Michigan majority control of the state:

What should you do?

1. Check out all the damage they want to do while no one is watching.

First familiarize yourself with the GOPs attacks on One Fair Wage, earnest sick time, public workers, the safety of the Great Lakes, wetlands, Props 1,2 and 3, power grabs from the Democratic women just elected to statewide office, and PUPPIES.

2. Raise your voice.

Make sure your you call your State House and State Senate reps, if only to thank them for opposing all these unnecessary attacks on the state.

But the Detroit Free Press Brian Dickerson noted this is ultimately a gut check for Rick Snyder whose greatest accomplishment as governor  Medicaid expansion  came when he was willing to defy his party:

Whether the Republicans ambitious lame-duck plans succeed will depend on the cooperation of outgoing Gov. Rick Snyder, who must decide whether he wishes to be remembered as the conservative accountant who brought order to Michigans fiscal house or the GOP apparatchik who enabled his partys 11th-hour smash-and-grab.

Call AND send a handwritten letter to Governor Snyder to kindly tell him to stand up for our democracy and to respect the will of the voters by vetoing these bills if they come to his desk. Describe why these issues are important to you and the impact that they will have on your life. Please be specific to each piece of legislation.

Governor Rick Snyder

P.O. Box 30013

Lansing, Michigan 48909

You can reach Governor Rick Snyder by telephone at: 517-373-3400.

There are also a group of key legislators that you can call who might make the difference between these bills passing or failing:

Representative Afendoulis: 517-373-0218

Representative Calley: 517-373-0842

Representative Crawford: 517-373-0827

Representative Daniela Garcia: 517-373-0830

Representative Inman: 517-373-1766

Representative Lilly: 517-373-0838

Representative Maturen 517-373-1787

Representative McCready: 517-373-8670

Representative Pagel: 517-373-1796

Representative Roberts: 517-373-1775

Representative Sheppard: 517-373-2617

Representative VanSingel: 517-373-7317

3. Go to Lansing, if you can.

Theres a protest on Tuesday December 4 from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM. If you can make then it, great. But any time you can be there is great and people are carpooling there now.

[Image by Guettarda.]By Trend





The European Union should be involved in the negotiations on the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Honorary Consul of Azerbaijan in Stuttgart Otto Hauser told Trend.

Azerbaijan is an important partner for Europe, and partnership is not a one way street. After all, Azerbaijan supplies us with oil and in the future also with gas, he noted.

Hauser further said that the right of Azerbaijanis to return to Nagorno-Karabakh and other occupied territories should be the first step in the settlement of the conflict.

Nagorno-Karabakh is a territory of Azerbaijan and there is no doubt about that. Azerbaijani IDPs should be able to return to their homes, he stressed.

The honorary consul also noted the importance of recognizing the four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of the Armenian armed forces from Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.

This is the will of the international community, he said.

Hauser also stressed that confidence building steps have to be taken as they help to intensify the negotiation process.

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.







Aurora, Colo.

Inside this high school at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, teenagers are immersed in a project with the potential to temper the divisiveness that is consuming U.S. politics. Theyre learning to have calm, balanced conversations about controversial issues.

In two very ordinary classrooms here, students are aware that theyre trying to do something extraordinary, something many adults around them seem unable to do: study a problem, understand the arguments on all sides, and discuss it together to see what solutions might work best for the country.

Educators around the country who are involved in teaching these civil-discourse skills say the need for them has become especially urgent as increasingly heated political rhetoric exposes the degree to which Americans are polarized and free-speech rights are under fire.

Its just a whole lot of yelling and finger-pointing out there, people talking over each other instead of hearing each other out, said Lindsey Johnson, an 11th grade student whos learning civil-discourse skills here at Overland High School, near Denver.

The sooner we can learn these habits, the sooner we can make things better.

Lindseys American Government class had just finished a deliberation, or structured civil discourse, about whether Congress should outlaw assault weapons. Students pushed their desks into groups of four, then read a packet of materials that summarized key issues about gun violence and outlined a dozen arguments for and against an assault-weapons ban.

Working in pairs, the students chose what they thought were the strongest two arguments on the pro or con side. They discussed them with the other two students in their group. Then they switched sides in the argument and discussed the issue again as a foursome.

Seeing the Other Side

Mariah Perez and her partner, Faith Koudawo, quickly filled the side of their worksheet that is set aside for supportive arguments. But the side for arguments against a ban stayed blank. For a long time.

About the Citizen Z Project U.S. public education is rooted in the belief by early American leaders that the most important knowledge to impart to young people is what it means to be a citizen. If America is experiencing a civic crisis now, as many say it is, schools may well be failing at that job. Look for more pieces from our Citizen Z project in the weeks and months ahead.

Mariah struggled. She came to class believing that outlawing assault weapons was a good idea. Its a deeply resonant issue here, where 12 people died in a shooting at the Century 16 movie theater in 2012, and the 1999 Columbine High School shooting took 13 lives only a half-hours drive away. On the very day students are discussing how their country should confront gun violence, a man opened fire on a nightclub in Thousand Oaks, Calif., killing 12 people.

Scanning the list of arguments against an assault-weapons ban, Mariah resisted. How could having those weapons on the street be a good idea? But then something shifted. She went back to an argument that had caught her eye. American gun ownership has deep historical roots in protecting citizens from a tyrannical government, it said. I wouldnt have thought about that before, she said.

With that door cracked open, Mariah and Faith took another look at the list of arguments against an assault-weapons ban. They chose two they thought were the strongest, including the 2nd Amendments guarantee of the right to own guns. Then they joined the pro and con arguments volleying in the whole-class discussion.

In the end, Mariah didnt change her stance. She still favors a ban. But she said that seeing different views and opinions opened my mind and helped me understand the issue better.

In another classroom downstairs, the next day, another group of students held a deliberation, this time on whether the United States should require its citizens to vote.

Like their classmates who discussed gun control, they had to abide by rules designed to promote good discussion, such as encouraging others to speak and approaching both sides with an open mind.

You may not argue yet. And you might have a really hard time with that, their teacher, Kelly Wagy-Jones, said as students began the exercise. But at this point, try to suspend judgment. Nows the time to identify arguments, present evidence, and listen.

A Step Beyond Debate

Many schools teach debate, where the goal is to construct a winning argument. But fewer teach how to consider opposing views on flammable issues and engage in informed dialogue about possible policy solutions. Overland Highand 23 other schoolsare using an approach designed by a civics organization called Street Law, Inc. But pockets of educators around the country are using other means to instill civil-discourse habits.

Its scary to talk about hard things. What if the conversation gets heated? said Julie Rogers Bascom, a Minnesota educator. But if we dont, we lose an important opportunity to teach kids how to have conversations without being a winner, how to understand multiple perspectives to solve problems.

Bascom helps teachers and students in the St. Paul, Minn., area learn how to conduct respectful conversations in their classrooms. Her approach was adapted from a protocol that Minnesota churches created to facilitate calmer conversations about gay marriage.

Teachers say they notice students getting personal and aggressive in disagreements.

Ive been teaching for eight years, and Ive noticed that students seem to get heated much more quickly now, said Steve Caudill, a social studies teacher in Bremen, Ind. Ive had to double up on reminders about personal attacks and arguing with reason and respect.

To manage those situations without curtailing class debate, Caudill has stepped up his use of strategies to foster good dialogue. He insists students back up statements with evidence. And when students begin to speak, they must restate what the previous classmate said, to affirm that they listened.

Building those skills is an important part of providing a safe place for students to explore ideas as theyre forming their political views, said Peter Bonilla, the vice president of programs at the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education.

FIRE has focused on challenging colleges decisions to ban conservative speakers on campus. But its expanding its work into high schools because teachers have been saying they need curriculum and instructional strategies to handle controversial topics, Bonilla said.

Its important to keep things open and mutually civil so students can feel free to make mistakes, to argue points they might later come to disagree with, he said. Both liberal and conservative students can feel outnumbered in discussion and reluctant to discuss their views, depending on the classroom.

Historical Roots

Wading into controversial political topics in a deliberative mindsetwhere students build knowledge of an issue, explore all sides, and seek consensus on solutionsis fundamental to civic engagement, said Diana Hess, the dean of the University of Wisconsin-Madisons school of education and co-author of the 2014 book, The Political Classroom.

Students who learn in that kind of environment are more likely to vote, engage in political conversations outside the classroom, and listen to people with whom they disagree, Hess research has found.

Although many teachers dont feel they have the support, skills, or time to use deliberative conversation models in their classes, efforts to involve students in those kinds of discussions are hardly new. They date back to Aristotles idea of deliberate discourse, and have gained traction periodically in K-12 classrooms. The new social studies movement of the 1960s and 1970s encouraged such inquiry-driven approaches.

Street Laws program is an outgrowth of work in the 1980s by two Minnesota researchers who designed a class discussion model known as structured academic controversy.

Scholars seeking to define critical aspects of high-quality civics instruction have repeatedly singled out deliberative discussion as important. A seminal report on civics instruction, The Civic Mission of Schools, in 2003, and a follow-up report in 2011, Guardian of Democracy, both list deliberative discussion about controversial topics as one of six important practices in good civics teaching.

Its hard to document the extent to which teachers are using these strategies, and whether theres been an increase in response to the rising political vitriol on the national stage. But anecdotally, teachers say they need structured ways to discuss difficult topics with students. And students report that their eyesand mindshave opened by participating in them.

Bintou Sonko, an Overland senior, said the more time she spends in deliberations, the easier it is to understand perspectives different from hers. In her first discussion, about gun control, everyone was just in their chair, silent and mad, she said. By the second, which focused on whether citizens should be required to vote, she knew shed have to argue both sides, and was more open to it.

Instead of just hearing, I was actually listening, she said. I started to realize that everyone is compelled by what they think is best for everyone. Theyre not good or evil.Montana has some of the most beautiful vistas in America within Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. However, the state is also associated with an ugly statistic: Montana has the highest suicide rate in the nation. The rate, 29.2 suicides for every 100,000 residents , is nearly twice the national average. In Montana, suicide is the leading cause of death for children ages 10-14 and the second leading cause of death for children 15 to 24.

Montanas 2017 High School Youth Risk Behavior Survey data emphasizes the concern. Thirty one percent of the states high school students felt sad or hopeless almost every day for two weeks or more in a row. Over 20 percent seriously considered attempting suicide. More than 16 percent made a plan about how they would attempt suicide. Nearly 10 percent attempted suicide . These awful statistics have educators around our state hastening to implement suicide prevention programs with staff and students.

Although there are many contributing factors to youth suicide, our school realized that to implement meaningful suicide prevention strategies, we had to acknowledge larger concerns regarding student mental health. Regrettably, approximately 1 in 5 American adolescents is contending with a serious mental-health condition . The prevalence of these conditions in our youths and the effect they can have on learning caused us to take a hard look at how to provide social, emotional, and behavioral supports for all learners.

And, so, four years ago, we implemented the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, a continuous improvement framework intended to identify and support students who were struggling academically, socially, emotionally, or behaviorally. We built staff consensus around the precept that we have a professional responsibility to ensure all students have the necessary supports to be successful. We cultivated the belief with staff that social-emotional needs were just as essential for student success as academic needs. We built upon the existing schoolwide positive behavior intervention program and added pathways of increasingly intensive, data-driven interventions for individual students.

We focused on implementing schoolwide prevention and intervention programs which positively and personally impacted every student. We began assigning each student a staff member to serve as their personal academic trainer, who advocates for student success and well-being. They meet with students daily in middle school and at least weekly in high school to set goals, develop plans for how to achieve these goals, motivate students, and celebrate student successes.

About This Package In this special Commentary package , current and former school leaders share insights from how they managed and recovered from some of the most difficultand often unexpectedcircumstances of their careers. This special section is supported by a grant from The Wallace Foundation. Education Week retained sole editorial control over the content of this package; the opinions expressed are the authors own, however. Read more from the package.

These trainers also identify academic or social-emotional challenges that a student may be experiencing. They are asked to develop a positive, personal relationship with students so they may serve as a supportive resource if a student encounters challengesbe they academic, social, emotional, or behavioral. Since implementing this personal academic trainer program three years ago, we have reduced by more than two-thirds the number of students in our school who need a more intensive student assistance intervention plan, including in-school mental-health services.

We also realized we needed to draw upon the expertise of teachers to further identify which students required strategic or intensive mental-health services. Now, teachers screen all students twice annually using the Systematic Screening for Behavior Disorders, a universal behavioral screening system. Based on the results, some students are connected with regular, school-based mental-health services, both counselors and private providers operating in school facilities.

The high student-to-staff ratios and inadequate state and federal funding to support school mental-health services often leave counselors with limited resources. In our school, for example, our two guidance counselors each handle an average of more than 220 students; our sole school psychologist covers all 442 students.

To provide additional mental-health resources, we have established partnerships with multiple therapists, psychologists, and other private mental-health service providers. These providers deliver a Comprehensive School and Community Treatment program which includes access to school-based therapy, behavioral, and life-skills training.

Providers bill Medicaid and private insurance for the students sessions, and the school provides the offices necessary to allow the therapists or case managers to meet with students during the school day. Now, roughly 10 percent of our schools population receives in-school mental-health-therapy services through CSCT, up from 4 percent four years ago when we greatly expanded the program.

Creating a school environment that continually and comprehensively supports the mental well-being of every student must be a focus for all educators. All schools should be looking for creative ways to address how to improve student mental health and prevent student suicide. Unfortunately, we both have had years in our careers where we lost one or more students to suicide.

It is a sad state of affairs when, at the conclusion of each academic year, we look forward to breathing a sigh of relief that we did not lose a student to suicide.The mixed oxide nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) under the electron microscope. It is used as a cathode material. On behalf of BMW, BASF, and Samsung, the GIZ is to show how cobalt can be mined under humane conditions in Congo.

On behalf of BMW, BASF, and Samsung, GIZ is to test a pilot project for the fair mining of cobalt.

Over a period of three years, the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) intends to use the pilot mine to demonstrate how cobalt can be mined under humane conditions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The project focuses on a pilot mine in which cobalt is mined using non-industrial methods. The project partners will not be operators of this mine.

BMW wants to purchase cobalt itself in order to better control the supply chain and provide the raw material from 2020 to its battery cell suppliers CATL and Samsung. The focus of the pilot project, which is financed purely privately, is to test initial approaches that will improve the working and living conditions of mine workers and surrounding communities. If the project is successful, these approaches can be transferred to other non-industrial mines in the long term.

Cobalt is a key element in the production of batteries for the automotive and electronics industries. The world's largest known reserves of this raw material are located in the Democratic Republic of Congo. 80 to 85 percent of cobalt extraction in the Congo is industrial, 15 to 20 percent of mining takes place using non-industrial methods. The greatest challenge is to ensure compliance with human rights, environmental, health, and safety standards in the non-industrial mining of cobalt.

For the first time, partners from the automotive, chemical, and electronics industries have come together to tackle the problems of cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo with a specific project. The pilot project is based on a feasibility study conducted by GIZ and the BMW Group. The project was planned on the basis of findings from on-site visits, interviews with stakeholders, and surveys among mine workers and local residents.

In the long term, the project should also contribute to supporting the goals of global initiatives to promote sustainable supply chains, such as the Global Battery Alliance (GBA).Acwa Power, a leading developer, owner, and operator of power generation and water desalination plants based in Saudi Arabia, said it has joined hands with three international groups - Spanish company Abengoa and Chinese firms Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited (ICBC), Shanghai Electric Group Company (SEGC) - to set up the world's largest renewable energy project in Dubai, UAE.



As per the deal, Acwa Power is lead developer on the project, while ICBC has established its role as an international lender for Noor Energy 1.



Earlier this year the Saudi-based firm had signed an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) agreement with SEGC, while Abengoa was roped in as one of the main technology providers and key subcontractors for the plant.



The deal for the 950 MW Noor Energy 1 Plant in Dubai was signed by Paddy Padmanathan, the president and chief executive of ACWA Power; Yi Huiman, the chairman of ICBC; Huang Ou, the chief executive of SEGC and Gonzalo Urquijo, the executive chairman of Abengoa at the Official Residence of the President of Government of Spain in the presence of Chinese President Xi Jinping, during his official visit to Spain, and the Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.



On the new partnership, Padmanathan said: "The coming together of the four enterprises who are leaders in our own respective fields: Acwa Power - a leader in development and operation of power plants, Abengoa - concentrated solar power technology provider, Shanghai Electric, EPC Contractor and ICBC Project finance MLA; from three countries, Spain, China and Saudi Arabia to deliver this iconic energy plant."



"On completion, it will deliver electricity day and night generated entirely by solar energy at a competitive cost in yet another country such as the UAE is the proof of the immense value that can be created by collaboration than isolation very much reflecting the spirit of the belt and road strategy that is being implemented by China under President Xis leadership," stated the top official.



Padmanathan said Acwa was proud to be the catalysts for this collaboration on a global scale in this instance focused at accelerating the decarbonisation of power generation by enabling the reliable delivery of solar power day and night and looked forward to working with these entities within the framework of the agreement to identify and execute meaningful market opportunities that would allow the group to continue to reliably deliver electricity and desalinated water at the lowest cost.



The Dewa IV IPP project, which was awarded to a consortium led by Acwa Power last year, is the fourth phase of the Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park, the largest single-site concentrated solar power plant in the world.



The project, initially expected to deliver 700 MW of energy, will use a state-of-the-art combination of the worlds tallest 260-m-high solar tower that will generate 100MW, three stations of parabolic trough concentrated solar power (CSP) each producing 200MW, and 250MW generated from photovoltaic panels to yield a total capacity output of 950MW.



The project is expected to deliver electricity at a levelised tariff of $7.323 cents per kilowatt-hour 24 hours a day; a cost level that competes with fossil fuel generated electricity without subsidy for reliable and dispatchable solar energy round-the-clock, said Acwa Power in its statement.



The plant will support the Dubai Clean Energy strategy 2050 to increase the share of clean energy in Dubai to 25 per cent by 2030 and is expected to provide an annual saving of 2.4 million tonne of CO2, it added.-TradeArabia News ServiceGaza court sentences 6 to death for spying for Israel

Security agencies in the blockaded Gaza Strip launch frequent crackdowns on suspected spies.

A military court in the Gaza Strip has sentenced six people to death for espionage with Israel, a spokesman for the Hamas-run Interior Ministry said Monday.

"THE VERDICT IS A CLEAR MESSAGE TO ISRAEL"

The court also slapped four people with a 15-year jail term each for collaboration with hostile parties, Iyad al-Bazm told a press conference held in Gaza City. He said four other people, including a woman, were also slapped with jail terms ranging between 6 to 10 years in prison on similar charges. The verdicts are a clear message to spies of the [Israeli] occupation, al-Bazm said.

Security agencies in the blockaded Gaza Strip launch frequent crackdowns on suspected spies. Such suspects always face trial behind closed doors, while the media is usually prevented from covering the proceedings.

Israel has imposed a crippling blockade on the Gaza Strip, home to nearly two million Palestinians, badly affecting all aspects of livelihood in the Palestinian territory.Protesters continue looting in Paris

Yellow vest protesters are torching cars and buildings, looting shops, smashing windows.

The protesters, known as the Yellow Vests, have been demonstrating for two weeks against gas taxes and rising cost of living.

GOVERNMENT MAY DECLARE STATE OF EMERGENCY

For three weeks protesters have blocked roads across France, forced the evacuation of tourist shopping meccas including the department stores as well as other important areas of massive tourism. As a result of the worsening violence, the French government is considering imposing a formal state of emergency.

Looters and thugs wearing masks and carrying clubs and axes rampaged through luxury boutiques, chemists and supermarkets.

Arabian migrant teaches the West a humanity lesson WATCH

In the footages recently recorded, the words of an Arabian migrant draw the attention. It is been clearly heard that the migrant tries to stop the rioters from looting by saying Its Haraam, so help me God, its Haraam, by all means,





The cost will be in the millions, and the biggest fear is that there will be similar scenes next weekend.

Looters rioting on the Champs-Elysees took close to 1million worth of goods from a Christian Dior store, it has emerged. "The Dior store on the Champs-Elysees was looted on Saturday, and goods 'including jewelry was stolen," a source told BFM TV. '

The Yellow Vests have already announced a new demonstration for next Saturday. It will be the third in a series against the government of President Emmanuel Macron, and so has been dubbed 'Act III  Macron resigns.'Turkey issues travel warning for France

Foreign ministry warns citizens visiting France citing ongoing violent protests in France.

Turkish Foreign Ministry on Sunday issued a travel advisory for citizens traveling to France warning them against ongoing violent protests in Paris and across the country.

"EXERCISE CAUTION DURING TRAVELING"

The warning published on the official website advised citizens who live in France and will travel to the European country to avoid areas of demonstrations, and not to be in places which could endanger their safety.

It also asked Turkish citizens to exercise caution while traveling through highways and intercity roads, citing recent closure of roads, barricades, and blockades. The ministry advised citizens living and traveling to France "to follow local media, to follow further warnings of our French authorities, our ministry, our embassy in Paris."The Dubai Land Department (DLD) is set to organise two international real estate exhibitions - one in Mumbai, India and the other in Shanghai, China - this month.



The 'Dubai Property Show  Mumbai' will run from December 7 to 10 at the Bandra Kurla Complex, while the 'Luxury Property Show - Shanghai will run from December 7 to 9 at the Shanghai Exhibition Centre.



The Mumbai event is significant since Indian investors make up the largest segment of property buyers in Dubai after Emirati citizens, as the UAE is one of their preferred destinations for investment, trade, tourism, and employment.



The UAE and India have close relations for a long time, where Indians consider Dubai their ideal choice when investing money abroad as it offers unique advantages, most notably high returns on investments, a safe environment, and transparent legislation that guarantees the rights for all, said a top official.



"The DLD is eager to establish a distinguished presence suitable to the size, location, and expectations of the shows, especially as they are being organised in two of the largest cities in Asia," remarked Majida Ali Rashid, the CEO of the Real Estate Promotion and Investment Management Sector at the DLD.



"We have developed integrated promotional plans to support the exhibitors and participants, including major real estate developers in Dubai who are offering visitors a wide range of diverse and luxurious properties catered to their needs, taking into account the diversity of the investors in these two cities," she noted.



Ali Rashid said DLD's participation in two simultaneous global events affirms its ongoing efforts to assist developers in targeting real estate investors.



"Taking into account the attractiveness of Dubais real estate market to Indian and Chinese investors, we can deduce the underlying causes for organising the two shows in India and China with unprecedented success," she noted.



Citing DLDs statistics and reports over the past few years, Ali Rashid said the Dubais real estate market has been witnessing demand from Chinese investors in Dubais real estate market  whether for residence or investment.



This comes in light of the growing trade relations between the two countries, as well as DLDs efforts to promote the emirate's properties across several Chinese cities, she added.-TradeArabia News ServiceNew York, NY, December 3, 2018 - ACM, the Association for Computing Machinery, has released the highly anticipated report "Retention in Computer Science Undergraduate Programs in the U.S.: Data Challenges and Promising Interventions." To develop the report, the ACM Education Board recruited a 15-member Retention Committee, drawn from expert faculty from a varied group of university computer programs and was chaired by Chris Stephenson from Google and Alison Derbenwick Miller from Oracle. Among its key recommendations, the report calls for additional research to provide a more nuanced understanding of the dynamics of attrition and retention, and encourages higher education institutions to provide proactive advising to ensure that students are exposed to career opportunities and pathways early in their undergraduate experience.

The computing field is experiencing exponential growth, both in terms of current and projected job openings, as well as students majoring in computer science (CS). Recently, the U.S. Department of Labor projected that between 2008 and 2018,  million computing jobs opened in the U.S. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, however, in 2015-2016 only 64,405 students received computer science degrees. the main source of preparation for these jobs. Additionally, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment in computer and information technology occupations is expected to grow by 13% in the next decade.

The interest in computing is also reflected in the numbers of incoming students pursuing Bachelor degrees in computing. A report by the Computing Research Association (CRA) highlights that US undergraduate enrollment in computer science is higher today than at any other time. Additionally, the CRA report outlines a 185% increase in CS undergraduates at large institutions since 2006, and a 216% increase of CS majors at smaller institutions during the same period.

Despite these trends, the challenge of retaining more women and people from underrepresented minorities (African-American, Hispanic, Native American) has been a persistent challenge in the field for decades. According to the National Science Foundation's Engineering and Science Indicators for 2016, despite the fact that women earned 50% of the Bachelor degrees in science and engineering, they accounted for only 17.9% of Bachelor degrees in the computing sciences. Additionally, data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) shows that for CS Bachelor degrees granted at doctoral-granting institutions in 2015, only 8.4% of degree recipients were Latino and only 4.3% were African-American.

"Diversity in the computing field is a vitally important issue," said Chris Stephenson, the Co-Chair of the ACM Education Board's Retention Committee and Head of Computer Science Education Programs at Google. It is a matter of equity and fairness to ensure that all people have access to the broad career opportunities and excellent salaries that a career in computing can offer. At the same time, it is an economic imperative for the United States to have a large and diverse tech workforce. Better solutions are developed by teams with a diversity of people and perspectives. Retention in college computing programs is foundational because if we are not attracting and retaining a diverse population of students in Computer Science programs during the students' academic careers, we will not see a diverse workforce in computing emerge." Added Retention Committee Co-Chair Alison Derbenwick Miller, Vice President, Oracle Academy, "In order to achieve diversity in computing, we also have to grapple with how we define and measure diversity, what we mean by retention, and with empirical data to examine retention that is both limited and messy. This paper is an important step forward in that it illuminates the existing data and challenges with defining retention, and ultimately encourages more research in this area. Simultaneously, it offers insights into interventions that have been effective, providing opportunities for institutions and stakeholders to continue to work toward increased diversity in computing for today's students even as more empirical research is done."

Data Collection and Analysis

Among its recommendations, the report includes several recommendations for improving the availability and consistency of retention data. These suggestions include better research to provide a more nuanced understanding attrition and retention, the implementation of more regular data-gathering on student retention through programs, and an increase in institutional resources to source, aggregate, analyze and report on retention data.

Promising Interventions:

The report includes an overview of specific barriers to retention and some promising interventions to overcome these barriers.

Give Students a Better Understanding of CS

The report found that many students come to college with misconceptions about computing and may hold invalid stereotypes of computer scientists. The report outlines five possible interventions for this barrier, including using students as near-peer ambassadors in outreach. With this approach, college students who are passionate about computing can help offer outreach programs to younger students.

Meet Students' Varied Backgrounds

Most introductory CS classrooms have students with varied levels of experience and some students might be intimidated by other students in the class who have more experience. The report outlines several possible interventions for this challenge including offering summer bridge programs for students from groups with historically lower retention rates.

Increase Helpful Collaboration

Helping students learn involves challenging them, but sometimes it is impossible to provide exactly the right level of challenge for all students. The report recommends tactics for integrating collaboration into classes and coursework. Using this approach faculty can help students tackle challenges beyond their current level of ability and ultimately expand their skills. For example, the report notes that pair programming has been shown to promote learning, improve code quality and improve student retention.

Increase Sense of Belonging and Build a Safe Learning Culture

The report notes that one of the biggest barriers to retention is students' sense of belonging. Positive faculty-student interactions, teacher assistant-student interactions and student-student interactions can all give rise to a sense of belonging in a community. The report outlines nine detailed strategies for building a sense of belonging including encouraging affinity groups and mentoring programs.

In addition to its review of available data sources and analysis of current data sets, the report includes three case studies detailing efforts to collect and analyze retention data and implement systemic and sustained retention programs at three diverse institutions: University of California, San Diego, Colorado School of Mines, and Carnegie Mellon University.

The report concludes by emphasizing that there is no silver bullet than can transform an institution into an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students, and that the work to create an inclusive environment is not a temporary effort. The ACM Education Board Retention Committee notes that because these constructs change very slowly, issues of equity will continue to be pressing in all fields--including computing--and therefore will require continued vigilance and determined effort.

###

About ACM

ACM, the Association for Computing Machinery, is the world's largest educational and scientific computing society, uniting computing educators, researchers and professionals to inspire dialogue, share resources and address the field's challenges. ACM strengthens the computing profession's collective voice through strong leadership, promotion of the highest standards, and recognition of technical excellence. ACM supports the professional growth of its members by providing opportunities for life-long learning, career development, and professional networking.Epigenetics is the expression and control of genes. The epigenetics involved in the inner ear is a critical part of the mystery of hearing. A team led by Prof. Karen B. Avraham, Vice Dean of the Sackler Faculty of Medicine at Tel Aviv University, has now created the first map of "methylation" -- one of the body's main epigenetic signals -- that reflects the functioning of the inner ear in its entirety.

Prof. Avraham collaborated on the study with TAU doctoral student Ofer Yizhar-Barnea and Prof. R. David Hawkins and other colleagues from the University of Washington and the Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia in Italy. Their research was published in a study in Scientific Reports on November 26.

"Our analysis of the DNA methylation dynamics revealed a large number of new genes that are critical for the development of the inner ear and the onset of hearing itself," Prof. Avraham says. "Instead of looking at one gene at a time, we employed sophisticated genomic technologies to examine all the genes in one snapshot. This allowed us to have a genome-wide view of the regulatory dynamics of the inner ear as a whole."

The life cycle of hearing

Humans are born with a lifetime allowance of inner ear hair cells, the inner ear cells responsible for hearing. Once the cells die due to genetic mutations, excessive exposure to noise, ototoxic drugs or aging, they don't regenerate. Some 34 million children worldwide suffer from incapacitating hearing loss, according to the World Health Organization. Among the elderly, hearing loss is associated with a higher risk of dementia, and hearing aids and cochlear implants provide only partial solutions to an urgent medical issue facing young and old alike.

"Epigenetic signals -- among them methylation -- don't allow the genes that could regenerate hair cells to be turned on," Prof. Avraham says. "If we can discover how these genes are controlled -- how they're turned on and off -- we may be able to modify these signals to allow regeneration to happen.

"This would allow us to transform cells in the inner ear to become functional hair cells or create new ones to allow for proper hearing. We hope that our epigenetic maps of the inner ear will provide entry points into the development of therapeutics for hearing loss."

The role of epigenetics

Epigenetics does not change the genetic code, but how the code is read. Methylation is the direct addition of a chemical group (methyl, CH3) onto the C nucleotides in the DNA molecule and is considered one of the most basic epigenetic mechanisms. DNA methylation serves as the on/off switch for the genome.

Prof. Howard Cedar of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, a world authority on methylation who was not involved in the research, says, "While our genes provide the instructions for how to make the building blocks of the hearing system, understanding how these components are controlled to provide proper hearing requires additional epigenetic information. The research directed by Prof. Avraham and her colleagues provides, for the first time, insights into how this works and reveals important clues on how we may be able to prevent or correct a wide variety of hearing ailments."

In the course of their research, the scientists discovered that inner ear cells follow a similar methylation pattern as the brain and neurons, suggesting they have a similar plasticity. This plasticity may allow for the introduction of regulatory elements to induce regeneration. The scientists validated their findings using state-of-the-art CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology. They found a critical regulatory element for a deafness gene, connexin 30.

"The development of this work was constrained by our limited knowledge of epigenetic mechanisms involved in the inner ear," Prof. Avraham concludes. "Epigenetic modification of gene expression, possibly by reversing abnormal DNA methylation, may offer a way of awakening the very genes that block regeneration from occurring."

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The research was supported by the United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation, the Israel Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health-NIDCD and the UK Action on Hearing Loss.

American Friends of Tel Aviv University supports Israel's most influential, comprehensive and sought-after center of higher learning, Tel Aviv University (TAU). TAU is recognized and celebrated internationally for creating an innovative, entrepreneurial culture on campus that generates inventions, startups and economic development in Israel. TAU is ranked ninth in the world, and first in Israel, for producing start-up founders of billion-dollar companies, an achievement that surpassed several Ivy League universities. To date, 2,500 US patents have been filed by Tel Aviv University researchers -- ranking TAU #1 in Israel, #10 outside of the US and #43 in the world.From companies trying to resolve data security risks to coastal communities preparing for rising sea levels, solving modern problems requires teamwork that draws on a broad range of expertise and life experiences. Yet individuals receive little formal training to develop the skills that are vital to these collaborations.

In a new scientific report published in Psychological Science in the Public Interest, an interdisciplinary team of researchers identifies the essential cognitive and social components of collaborative problem solving (CPS) and shows how integrating existing knowledge from a variety of fields can lead to new ways of assessing and training these abilities.

The report, authored by Arthur C. Graesser (University of Memphis), Stephen M. Fiore (University of Central Florida), Samuel Greiff (University of Luxembourg), Jessica Andrews-Todd (Educational Testing Service), Peter W. Foltz (Pearson and University of Colorado), and Friedrich W. Hesse (Leibniz-Institut fur Wissensmedien and University of Tubingen), is accompanied by a commentary from cognitive development expert Mary Gauvain (University of California, Riverside).

"CPS is an essential skill in the workforce and the community because many of the problems faced in the modern world require teams to integrate group achievements with team members' idiosyncratic knowledge," the authors of the report say.

As societies and technologies become increasingly complex, they generate increasingly complex problems. Devising efficient, effective, and innovative solutions to these complex problems requires CPS skills that most students lack. According to a 2015 assessment of more than 500,000 15-year-old students conducted by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, only 8% of students around the world showed strong CPS skills.

"The experiences of students in and out of the classroom are not preparing them for these skills that are needed as adults," Graesser and colleagues write.

This unique set of cognitive and social skills support core aspects of CPS, including:

Shared understanding : Group members share common goals when solving a new problem.

: Group members share common goals when solving a new problem. Accountability : The contributions that each member makes are visible to the rest of the group.

: The contributions that each member makes are visible to the rest of the group. Differentiated roles : Group members draw on their specific expertise to complete different tasks.

: Group members draw on their specific expertise to complete different tasks. Interdependency: Group members depend on the contributions of others to solve the problem.

One reason for the lack of CPS training is a deficit in evidence-based standards and curricula. Secondary school curricula typically focus on educating task- and discipline-specific knowledge, placing little emphasis on educating students' ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.

"Students rarely receive meaningful instruction, modeling, and feedback on collaboration," the researchers note.

When students do receive training relevant to CPS, it is often because they participate in extracurricular activities such as band, sports, student newspapers, and volunteer activities. Even then, the collaborative competencies are not directly relevant to problem solving. The authors argue that it is time to make CPS activities a core part of the curriculum.

Although considerable psychological, educational, and management research has examined factors that contribute to effective learning, teamwork, and decision making, research that directly examines how to improve collaborative problem solving is scarce.

According to the authors, "we are nearly at ground zero in identifying pedagogical approaches to improving CPS skills."

Developing and implementing effective CPS training stands to have significant societal impacts across a wide range of domains, including business, science, education, technology, environment, and public health. In a project funded by the National Science Foundation, for example, Fiore and other research team members are training students to collaborate across a range of disciplines -- including environmental science, ecology, biology, law, and policy -- to identify ways to address social, business, and agricultural effects of rising sea levels in Virginia's Eastern Shore.

"It's exciting to engage in real world testing of methods developed in laboratory studies on teamwork, to see how feedback on collaboration, and reflection on that feedback to improve teamwork strategies, can improve students' problem solving," Fiore explains.

Identifying the necessary components of this kind of training and determining how to translate those components across a variety of real-world settings will, itself, require interdisciplinary cooperation among researchers, educators, and policymakers.

In the commentary, Gauvain emphasizes that achieving a comprehensive understanding of CPS requires taking a developmental perspective and she notes that psychological scientists will be essential in this endeavor. Graesser and colleagues agree:

"When psychological scientists collaborate with educational researchers, computer scientists, psychometricians, and educational experts, we hope to move forward in addressing this global deficit in CPS," they conclude.

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The full text of the report and commentary is available online: Report: Advancing the Science of Collaborative Problem Solving

Commentary: Collaborative Problem Solving: Social and Developmental Considerations

For more information about this report, please contact: Stephen M. Fiore at sfiore@ist.ucf.edu.

For a copy of the article and access to other Psychological Science in the Public Interest research findings, please contact Anna Mikulak at 202-293-9300 or amikulak@psychologicalscience.org.As we age, we tend to develop a number of chronic health conditions and concerns. Often, managing health problems can mean that older adults may take many different medications. When older adults take five or more medicines (a scenario health experts call "polypharmacy", it can increase the risk of harmful side effects.

Polypharmacy can contribute to serious problems including falls, disability, and hospitalizations. Taking more than five medications is especially common among older adults with heart failure, which is the leading cause of hospitalization for people age 65 and older. Doctors often prescribe several different drugs to improve heart failure, but this can increase your risk of harmful side effects and interactions between your medications. Older adults who have trouble performing routine daily activities are at a particularly high risk for the negative effects of taking a large number of medications.

In a new study, researchers examined whether limitations in older adults' abilities to perform their routine daily activities were linked to taking multiple medications for heart failure. They published their study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

The researchers examined data from 2003-2014 from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). They looked at whether limitations in performing routine daily activities were linked to the number of drugs taken by people aged 50 and older with heart failure.

People in the study (most of whom were around age 70) had multiple chronic conditions, which included high blood pressure, diabetes, anemia, asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, coronary artery disease, prior heart attack, prior stroke, thyroid disease, liver disease, cancer, chronic kidney disease, dialysis, high cholesterol, and arthritis. They were also considered to be frail. People who are frail can be weak, have less endurance, feel exhausted, and be less able to function well.

Nearly 25 percent of the people in the study had trouble thinking and making decisions (also known as cognitive impairment). Cognitive difficulties were more common among people who also had problems performing their routine daily activities.

In the study, 74 percent of the participants took five or more medications. People who had difficulty performing their daily activities took more medications and were more likely to take more than five medications compared to people who didn't have trouble performing their routine daily activities.

The authors suggested that health care providers might not be taking limitations in performing routine daily activities into account when prescribing drugs for people with heart failure. This may unnecessarily expose older people with heart failure to a higher risk of harmful side effects associated with their prescriptions.

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This summary is from "Association Between Functional Impairment and Medication Burden Among Adults with Heart Failure." It appears online ahead of print in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. The study authors are Parag Goyal, MD, MSc; Joanna Bryan, MPH; Jerard Kneifati-Hayek, MD; Madeline R. Sterling, MD, MPH; Samprit Banerjee, PhD; Mathew S. Maurer, MD; Mark S. Lachs, MD, MPH; and Monika M. Safford MD.

About the Health in Aging Foundation

This research summary was developed as a public education tool by the Health in Aging Foundation. The Foundation is a national non-profit established in 1999 by the American Geriatrics Society to bring the knowledge and expertise of geriatrics healthcare professionals to the public. We are committed to ensuring that people are empowered to advocate for high-quality care by providing them with trustworthy information and reliable resources. Last year, we reached nearly 1 million people with our resources through HealthinAging.org. We also help nurture current and future geriatrics leaders by supporting opportunities to attend educational events and increase exposure to principles of excellence on caring for older adults. For more information or to support the Foundation's work, visit http://www.HealthinAgingFoundation.org.

About the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society

Included in more than 9,000 library collections around the world, the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society (JAGS) highlights emerging insights on principles of aging, approaches to older patients, geriatric syndromes, geriatric psychiatry, and geriatric diseases and disorders. First published in 1953, JAGS is now one of the oldest and most impactful publications on gerontology and geriatrics, according to ISI Journal Citation Reports. Visit wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/JGS for more details.

About the American Geriatrics Society

Founded in 1942, the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) is a nationwide, not-for-profit society of geriatrics healthcare professionals that has--for 75 years--worked to improve the health, independence, and quality of life of older people. Its nearly 6,000 members include geriatricians, geriatric nurses, social workers, family practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, and internists. The Society provides leadership to healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public by implementing and advocating for programs in patient care, research, professional and public education, and public policy. For more information, visit AmericanGeriatrics.org.One regulatory tool that has yet to be deployed to curb the ongoing opioid epidemic is the power of the federal minister of health to recall high-strength opioid formulations from the market. These opioid formulations can harm patients with chronic pain in multiple ways and the minister could recall them, argues a commentary in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).

"In 2016, the federal minister of health stated that 'all tools are on the table' to address the opioid crisis," write Matthew Herder, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Dr. David Juurlink, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario. "There is little sign that the crisis is abating in Canada."

And while most deaths occur in people with addiction, the harms that befall patients with chronic pain by virtue of overprescribing of opioids are often lost in this larger discussion.

"Ministerial recall of the most hazardous opioid formulations is a powerful regulatory tool that should be deployed to address one aspect of the crisis: the excessive prescribing of opioids for chronic pain."

Ministerial recall is allowed in Canada's legal system under the Protecting Canadians from Unsafe Drugs Act, known as Vanessa's Law. This new power, which was enacted by Parliament in 2014, has yet to be used; however, Herder and Juurlink argue that the harms associated with high-strength opioids warrant invoking this new recall power.

High-dose opioid formulations are widely prescribed in Canada for chronic pain, with more than 30 million dispensed annually despite a new guideline recommending against the practice.

"Put simply, high-dose opioids constitute a self-perpetuating therapy, with patients left vulnerable by the need for ongoing treatment to avoid withdrawal, itself a pernicious drug-related harm," write the authors.

"[C]oupling new prescribing guidelines that help regulate the profession with a federal recall of high-strength formulations would go a long way to alter dangerous prescribing practices that have helped to fuel this crisis."

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"High-strength opioid formulations: the case for a ministerial recall" is published December 3, 2018.

Podcast permanent link: https://soundcloud.com/cmajpodcasts/181289-comWORCESTER, Mass.--Tropical forests in the Amazon, Indonesia, and Mesoamerica face multiple threats from mining, oil, and gas extraction and massive infrastructure projects over the next two decades, according to a study by Clark University researchers and their international colleagues in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). This encroachment not only threatens forests and biodiversity but also indigenous and rural communities.

Across the world, governments and investors are teaming up on huge regional development projects to build roads, railways, port facilities, and waterways. Their goal is to access areas deep within the forest that are rich with known and potential mineral, oil, coal, and natural gas reserves along with other natural resources, the authors point out.

"Governments have made framework policy commitments to national and cross-border infrastructure integration, increased energy production, and growth strategies based on further exploitation of natural resources. This reflects political settlements among national elites that endorse resource extraction as a pathway towards development," according to the authors of "Resource Extraction and Infrastructure Threaten Forest Cover and Community Rights," an article published December 3 in PNAS.

Five of the 12 authors have Clark ties, including lead investigator Anthony Bebbington, a Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences and the Milton P. and Alice C. Higgins Professor of Environment and Society and former director of Clark's Graduate School of Geography. Currently, Bebbington is serving as Australia Laureate Fellow at the University of Melbourne.

The other authors include Denise Humphreys Bebbington, research associate professor in Clark's International Development, Community and Environment Department; and three more researchers associated with the Graduate School of Geography: Laura Aileen Sauls, a doctoral candidate; John Rogan, associate professor; and Kimberly Johnson '16, M.S.'17, who graduated from the Accelerated B.A./Master's Degree Program in geographic information sciences and now works as a data mapping analyst at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation in Seattle.

The Clark researchers partnered with researchers and officials from community- and environment-focused NGOs and academic institutions in Indonesia, Brazil, Peru, the Netherlands, El Salvador, and Australia.

The researchers used geospatial and qualitative data, including that gathered through interviews and workshops with stakeholders in Brazil, Indonesia, Peru, Mexico, Norway, and El Salvador.

Past research has shown that the expansion of infrastructure has led to deforestation, they say. But fewer investigators have studied how the complex interactions between two massive forces -- infrastructure investment and resource extraction -- have combined to threaten forests and communities, according to the authors.

"This rich body of work on deforestation and associated policy recommendations focuses far more on agriculture and forestry than on resource extraction or associated large-scale infrastructure," the authors explain. "There is even less analysis of the types of social and political relationships that have been created by these large-scale investments and which become self-perpetuating through lobbying and the re-entrenchment of power relations."

They stressed the urgency of this research, given the monumental infusion of government support for development across the world. In 2014, for example, the Group of 20 -- an international forum of governments, including the United States -- "committed to invest up to an additional $90 trillion in global infrastructure by 2030, and in 2016 committed to link infrastructure master plans across world regions," the authors note.

They urged researchers to shed light on governmental corruption and human rights abuses that often accompany these massive investments, and to promote policy-making that protects forests and communities. In Honduras, for example, violence and murder surrounded the Aguas Zarcas hydroelectric conflict in 2016.

"Such investment exacerbates existing conflicts and creates new ones, reflected in the most extreme cases by the killings of environmental defenders," the researchers stress. Citing the work of Global Witness, they note, "Globally, 200 such killings were reported in 2016, and 207 were reported in 2017, the majority linked to contestations over mining, logging, hydropower, agro-industrial, and infrastructure projects."

To protect forests and human rights, the authors suggest "new and different approaches to development that prioritize these objectives while accommodating some resource extraction and agroindustry priorities."

Examples include zoning to set aside forest areas and maintain communities; energy strategies focused on reducing dam building and fossil fuel extraction and eliminating coal; community-based forest management; financial incentives to decrease forest conversion; promotion of socially and environmentally responsible manufacturing and production; and especially important, a substantial community and human rights agenda.

The authors spell out converging patterns of resource extraction and forest loss. The direct impacts of mining and oil and gas extraction on forests were limited from 2000 to 2014, they say. However, there were exceptions. Forests were particularly affected by coal mining in Sumatra and Kalimantan; iron ore mining, charcoal and pig iron production in Brazil; and artisanal and small-scale gold mining in Madre de Dios, Peru, along rivers in the Brazilian and Colombian Amazon, across Kalimantan, and in Nicaragua.

On the other hand, forest loss and degradation has resulted more from the indirect impacts of resource extraction, combined with infrastructure investment. When roads are built to access resources, the government "signals" that those areas might be settled and developed.

This phenomenon has occurred in places like the Peten region in northern Guatemala and in Madre de Dios in southeastern Peru, part of the Amazon Basin. After the construction of the Southern Interoceanic Highway linking Brazil and Peru, for example, artisanal and small-scale gold mining intensified. In the future, mineral development could expand elsewhere in the Amazon Basin given large-scale commitments to invest in roads, waterways, and railroads as well as phenomena such as Venezuela's designation of a "mining arc" covering 12 percent of its territory, now under military control with suspension of constitutional rights. In Indonesia, forests and communities in Kalimantan are threatened by coal mining and a proposed railway running through the forest to a coastal port.

Meanwhile, governmental policies that promote growth will have major impacts on forests and contribute to increased greenhouse gas emissions, the authors say. They cite as examples Brazil's Growth Acceleration Program, building highways, waterways, and hydroelectric power plants across the Amazon; Honduras' investments in hydroelectric energy, mining, and petroleum exploration; and Nicaragua's focus on gold mining and exports. This political commitment to infrastructure projects without sufficient consideration of possible social and environmental impacts is also apparent at a subnational level where regulations are even weaker. This has led to further overlaps with indigenous lands and protected areas as in the case of Loreto, Peru, notes co-author Cesar Gamboa of Derecho, Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (Law, Environment and Natural Resources), an NGO based in Lima, Peru.

Added to that are multi-state infrastructure and energy agreements, including major initiatives that will increase transportation across the Amazon and Mesoamerica and deepen integration across the Indonesian archipelago.

"What happens to the forests of Amazonia, Indonesia, and Mesoamerica over the next two decades will depend on which claims over these forests prevail in these contestations over land use," the authors conclude.

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Founded in 1887 in Worcester, Massachusetts, Clark University is a liberal arts-based research university addressing natural, social and human imperatives from local to global scales. Nationally renowned as a college that changes lives, Clark is a transformative force in higher education today. LEEP (Liberal Education and Effective Practice) is Clark's pioneering model of education that combines a robust liberal arts curriculum with life-changing world and workplace experiences. Clark's faculty and students work across boundaries to develop solutions to complex challenges in the natural sciences, psychology, geography, management, urban education, Holocaust and genocide studies, environmental studies, and international development and social change. The Clark educational experience embodies the University's motto: Challenge Convention. Change Our World. http://www.clarku.eduDuring a myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, the blood supply to part of the heart muscle is cut off. As a consequence, part of the heart muscle dies. Because the heart is a pump that maintains the blood circulation through our vessels, this is obviously a life-threatening situation. Most tissues of animals and humans contain stem cells that come to the rescue upon tissue damage: they rapidly produce large numbers of 'daughter cells' in order to replace lost tissue cells.

For two decades researchers and clinicians have searched for cardiac stem cells, stem cells that should reside in the heart muscle and that could repair the heart muscle after a myocardial infarction. Multiple research groups have claimed the definitive identification of cardiac stem cells, yet none of these claims have held up. See for instance the following recent press release: "US governments halts heart stem-cell study". The existence of cardiac stem cells and their significance for adult hearts remains therefore heavily debated.

To solve this debate, researchers from the Hubrecht Institute in Utrecht, the Amsterdam University Medical Center, the Ecole Normale Superieure (ENS) de Lyon and the Francis Crick Institute London, led by Hans Clevers, focused on the broadest and most direct definition of stem cell function in the mouse heart: the ability of a cell to replace lost tissue by cell division. In the heart, this means that any cell that can produce new heart muscle cells after a heart attack would be termed a cardiac stem cell. The authors generated a 'cell-by-cell' map of all dividing cardiac cells before and after a myocardial infarction using advanced molecular and genetic technologies.

The study establishes that many types of cells divide upon damage of the heart, but that none of these are capable of generating new heart muscle. In fact, many of the 'false leads' of past studies can now be explained: cells that were previously named cardiac stem cells now turn out to produce blood vessels or immune cells, but never heart muscle. Thus, the sobering conclusion is drawn that heart stem cells do not exist. In other words, heart muscle that is lost due to a heart attack cannot be replaced. This finding -while disappointing- settles a long-standing controversy.

The authors make a second important observation. Connective tissue cells (also known as fibroblasts) that are intermingled with heart muscle cells respond vigorously to a myocardial infarction by undergoing multiple cell divisions. In doing so, they produce scar tissue that replaces the lost cardiac muscle. While this scar tissue contains no muscle and thus does not contribute to the pump function of the heart, the fibrotic scar 'holds together' the infarcted area. Indeed, when the formation of the scar tissue is blocked, the mice succumb to acute cardiac rupture. Thus, while scar formation is generally seen as a negative outcome of myocardial infarction, the authors stress the importance of the formation of scar tissue for maintaining the integrity of the heart.

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Publication: Profiling proliferative cells and their progeny in damaged murine hearts

Kai Kretzschmar*, Yorick Post* (* = equal contribution), Marie Bannier-Helaouet, Andrea Mattiotti, Jarno Drost, Onur Basak, Vivian S. W. Li, Maaike van den Born, Quinn D. Gunst, Danielle Versteeg, Lieneke Kooijman, Stefan van der Elst, Johan H. van Es, Eva van Rooij, Maurice J. B. van den Hoff, and Hans Clevers (2018).

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS)

Prof. dr. Hans Clevers is group leader at the Hubrecht Institute, professor of Molecular Genetics at the University Medical Center Utrecht and Utrecht University and Oncode Investigator.

About the Hubrecht Institute

The Hubrecht Institute is a research institute focused on developmental and stem cell biology. It encompasses 24 research groups that perform fundamental and multidisciplinary research, both in healthy systems and disease models. The Hubrecht Institute is a research institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), situated on the Utrecht Science Park 'De Uithof'. Since 2008, the institute is affiliated with the University Medical Center Utrecht, advancing the translation of research to the clinic. The Hubrecht Institute has a partnership with the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL). For more information, visit http://www.hubrecht.eu.

About the KNAW

The Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences is the forum, conscience, and voice of the arts and sciences in the Netherlands. It promotes quality in science and scholarship and strives to ensure that Dutch scholars and scientists contribute to cultural, social and economic progress. As a research organisation, the Academy is responsible for a group of fifteen outstanding national research institutes. For more information visit https://www.knaw.nl/en?set_language=en.

About University Medical Center Utrecht

University Medical Center Utrecht (UMC Utrecht) belongs to the largest public healthcare institutions in the Netherlands and is an internationally leading healthcare provider, medical school and research institute that is exciting for its people, attractive to talent and embodies a culture of teamwork, innovation, sustainability and a competitive spirit. As a patient-centered organization, its 11,000 employees are dedicated to prevent disease, improve healthcare, develop new treatment methods and refine existing ones, with quality and patient safety as cornerstones. For more information, visit http://www.umcutrecht.nl.

About the Ecole normale superieure de Lyon

The Ecole normale superieure de Lyon (ENS de Lyon) is a highly selective grande ecole located in Lyon, France. It is one out of four Ecoles normales superieures, training researchers and professors in the sciences and the humanities. For more information, visit http://www.ens-lyon.fr/en/.

About the Francis Crick Institute

The Francis Crick Institute is dedicated to understanding the fundamental biology underlying health and disease. The Institute's work is helping to understand why disease develops and to translate discoveries into new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, infections and neurodegenerative diseases. An independent organisation, the Crick's founding partners are the Medical Research Council (MRC), Cancer Research UK, Wellcome, UCL, Imperial College London and King's College London. The Crick was formed in 2015, and in 2016 we moved into a brand new state-of-the-art building in central London which brings together 1500 scientists and support staff working collaboratively across disciplines, making it the biggest biomedical research facility under a single roof in Europe. For more information, visit https://www.crick.ac.uk/.Can skin wounds heal without leaving scars? That's the question being explored in a project entitled ScarLessWorld headed by Dr. Yuval Rinkevich, research group leader at Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen. His work will now be supported by a Consolidator grant from the European Research Council (ERC) providing around two million euros of research funding over the next five years.

People have been fascinated by tissue and organ regeneration for thousands of years. "So it's all the more surprising that this process is still relatively poorly understood," notes Yuval Rinkevich. He heads the Cellular Therapeutics in Chronic Lung Disease research group at the Institute of Lung Biology and Disease at Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen.

He and his team have recently made a major contribution to this field. "We were able to show that fibroblasts - the connective tissue cells of the skin which are responsible for wound healing - are not a uniform population," explains Rinkevich. "Our findings show that there are four different types and that it is the composition of these four types which determines how much scarring occurs."

Rinkevich gives an example, "If the skin of a developing embryo gets injured, it simply regenerates. In later life stages, however, the wound scars." The researchers recently succeeded in demonstrating that this phenomenon is due to differences in the population of fibroblasts in the skin. The proportion of regenerative cells decreases as development progresses, whilst the number of scar-forming cells increases. When the researchers transplanted fibroblasts from mouse embryos into wounds in adult animals, scarring was significantly reduced.

Building on these results, Yuval Rinkevich knows what he wants to achieve next, "We want to use new experimental approaches to understand how this scarless wound healing works and, in the long-term, to reproduce it clinically." As part of his ScarLessWorld project, he and his team are now planning

to fully catalogue the repertoires of dermal fibroblast lineages,

to use imaging techniques to determine fibroblast dynamics during wound healing,

to identify the genes responsible for regeneration vs. scarring,

and finally, to translate these findings to human skin.

"Using the technologies we have developed, we can achieve this breakthrough. That would be a huge leap forward for regenerative medicine," says Rinkevich. Options for preventing scar formation in large wounds, burns and similar injuries are currently extremely limited. If the approach proves to be successful, it could possibly also be adapted to other conditions, such as lung fibrosis, in which the lung tissue is scarred.

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Further Information

Background:

The ERC Consolidator Grant offers funding for excellent, advanced research talent. Applicants must already have proven their scientific potential by such means as first authorships of outstanding publications and further scientific successes and awards. The long-term, highly endowed funding particularly supports innovative research projects and allows the targeted development of the project's own scientific team.

Yuval Rinkevich and his team are Partners in the German Center for Lung Research (DZL). You can find more information in our research portrait "Unlocking the Secrets of Regeneration": https://www.helmholtz-muenchen.de/en/aktuelles/latest-news/press-information-news/article/45425/index.html

The Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen, the German Research Center for Environmental Health, pursues the goal of developing personalized medical approaches for the prevention and therapy of major common diseases such as diabetes, allergies and lung diseases. To achieve this, it investigates the interaction of genetics, environmental factors and lifestyle. The Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen is headquartered in Neuherberg in the north of Munich and has about 2,300 staff members. It is a member of the Helmholtz Association, a community of 18 scientific-technical and medical-biological research centers with a total of about 37,000 staff members. http://www.helmholtz-muenchen.de/en

The Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC) is a joint research project of the Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen, the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Clinic Complex and the Asklepios Fachkliniken Munchen-Gauting. The CPC's objective is to conduct research on chronic lung diseases in order to develop new diagnosis and therapy strategies. The CPC maintains a focus on experimental pneumology with the investigation of cellular, molecular and immunological mechanisms involved in lung diseases. The CPC is a site of the Deutsches Zentrum fur Lungenforschung (DZL). http://www.helmholtz-muenchen.de/ilbd

Contact for the media:

Department of Communication, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen - German Research Center for Environmental Health, Ingolstadter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg - Tel. +49 89 3187 2238 - E-mail: presse@helmholtz-muenchen.de

Scientific Contact:

Dr. Yuval Rinkevich, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen - German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Lung Biology and Disease, Max-Lebsche-Platz 31, 81377 Munchen - Tel. +49 89 3187 4685 - E-mail: yuval.rinkevich@helmholtz-muenchen.deCastelldefels (Barcelona) December 3, 2018. "Innovators Under 35" is an annual list that recognises outstanding innovators who are younger than 35 years old. The award spans a wide range of fields, including biotechnology, materials, computer hardware, energy, transportation, communications and the Internet. This list from the MIT Technology Review recognises individuals whose outstanding technical work and results promises to define the future technological path for the following decades. It rewards ingenious and elegant work that matters to the world at large; not just to peers in a particular field or industry.

Dr. Abellan is the co-founder and CEO of Quside, a spinoff company from ICFO who are a leading research centre in the field of photonics. Born from an intensive research and development program in quantum technologies at ICFO, including Abellan's Ph.D. thesis, the spinoff company is now commercialising quantum random number generators. The technology is an essential element for guaranteeing long term protection of our data in an increasingly complex hyper-connected society, with billions of devices talking to each other and vehicles driving autonomously in our streets. As Carlos Abellan comments, "We started in the lab a few years ago, and we're now focused on scaling the technology to make it available at scale. It's exciting to work on something that will contribute to building future-proven encryption technologies for any connected device".

Quside's patented technology enables the generation of gigabit per second quantum random numbers. Using state-of-the-art photonic integration technologies, the products developed by the company can be miniaturised to chip level, allowing complete integration in any connected device. The company is working with key partners in different markets, such as data centres, to enable the next generation of future-proven security solutions to all Internet users. By using quantum technologies, the security levels that are achieved can resist a wide variety of upcoming threats, such as those arising from breakthroughs in crypto analysis or even the hacking capability of a hypothetical quantum computer. As Silvia Carrasco, Director of the Knowledge and Technology Transfer (KTT) unit at ICFO, comments "we actively support creation of spinoff companies by ICFOnians, and use our extensive networks of investors to help them get started".

The Innovators Under 35 Summit Europe 2018 will be held at the worldwide renowned Station F, the biggest startup campus in the world, supported by Xavier Niel and located in Paris. Station F occupies a building designed by the French engineer Eugene Freyssinet. Inaugurated in 1929, the former rail depot has been extensively remodelled by architects Wilmotte and Associates to meet the needs of small startup companies.

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About Quside: Quside designs and manufactures innovative quantum technologies for all connected devices. Using their proprietary quantum random number generator Qupic, the company operates with key players in different markets to provide tailor-made solutions to the telecommunications arena enhancing security across any device.

About ICFO:

ICFO - The Institute of Photonic Sciences, member of The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, is a research centre located in a specially designed, 14.000 m2-building situated in the Mediterranean Technology Park in the metropolitan area of Barcelona. It currently hosts 400 people, including research group leaders, post-doctoral researchers, PhD students, research engineers and staff. ICFOnians are organised in 25 research groups working in 60 state-of-the-art research laboratories, equipped with the latest experimental facilities and supported by a range of cutting edge facilities for nanofabrication, characterisation, imaging and engineering.

The Severo Ochoa distinction awarded by the Ministry of Science and Innovation, as well as 15 ICREA Professorships, 31 European Research Council grants and 7 Fundacio Cellex Barcelona Nest Fellowships, demonstrate the centre's dedication to research excellence, as does the institute's consistent appearance in top worldwide positions in international rankings. From an industrial standpoint, ICFO participates actively in the European Technological Platform Photonics21 and is very proactive in fostering entrepreneurial activities and spin off creation. The centre participates in incubator activities and seeks to attract venture capital investment. ICFO hosts an active Corporate Liaison Program that aims at creating collaborations and links between industry and ICFO researchers. The ICFO Launchpad gives innovative ideas a space to develop into new technology spinoffs and to date, the institute has created 6 successful startup companies.

For more information visit: http://www.innovatorsunder35.com http://www.quside.comUsing a compact optical platform that exploits the quantum characteristics of light, Professor Roberto Morandotti and his team are one step closer to realizing the first powerful photonic quantum computer. In the journal Nature Physics, the INRS researchers revealed to have generated a particular class of quantum states-d-level cluster states-, as well as to have used them to implement novel quantum operations. The demonstrated states exhibit unique properties that make them more robust and powerful than any other such states demonstrated thus far.

For nearly ten years, Professor Roberto Morandotti has been building an ambitious system piece by piece by developing chips that use light particles (photons) as the data medium. On these coin-sized chip structures, photons are generated and transformed so they can be assigned unique quantum properties. His team was the first to successfully create high-dimensional (i.e. quDit) optical cluster states, one of the elements that can enable the ongoing quest to harness the power of quantum computing.

Electronic computer systems are nearing the limit of their capabilities, yet demand for greater computing power is constantly growing. This is why scientists are turning to quantum computing, investigating how to encode a significant amount of information in light particles and perform calculations of unprecedented complexity.

To get there, the data medium has to be shifted to quantum bits (or qubits), the non-classical computing equivalent of conventional bits. By judiciously designing the quantum state of the photons, it is possible to increase the information storage capacity of qubits and boost them to obtain so-called quDits. Then, by grouping the quDits into clusters, quantum computing operations based on the so called 'one-way' scheme become possible.

Other approaches to quantum computing use ions, atoms, or other quantum resources, but the efforts to manipulate them towards a higher-dimensional encoding have been inefficient. According to Professor Jose Azana (INRS), an expert of telecommunications who contributed to this research, photons also present another advantage: "They are used to transmit information via optical fibers in existing telecommunications systems. That means photons with controlled quantum properties can also travel through these same channels without losing their attributes."

The complexity and richness of the cluster states described in the article in Nature Physics is unprecedented. Moreover, the team of researchers also achieved another first by performing high-dimensional quantum computing operations harnessing the realized cluster states.

They demonstrated that light has all the necessary features to power the superfast computers of the future. In a significant leap forward, this was done with a compact system compatible with existing technologies. The platform developed by the INRS team is capable of generating quantum states with complexities sufficient to achieve quantum computing objectives, thus paving the way to one-way quantum computers.

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ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS

Firsts:

- Generation of high-dimensional cluster states - D-level operations using cluster states - Creation of a hyper-entangled state in frequency and time

Advantages of the photonic system:

- Commercially available components - Compatible with integrated electronics systems - Compatible with telecommunications systems - Scalability - Practical and easy to use - Inexpensive - Compact

ABOUT THE PAPER

Christian Reimer, Stefania Sciara, Piotr Roztocki, Mehedi Islam, Luis Romero Cortes, Yanbing Zhang, Bennet Fischer, Sebastien Loranger, Raman Kashyap, Alfonso Cino, Sai T. Chu, Brent E. Little, David J. Moss, Lucia Caspani, William J. Munro, Jose Azan?a, Michael Kues and Roberto Morandotti, "High-dimensional one-way quantum processing implemented on d-level cluster states," Nature Physics, published December 3, 2018, DOI: 10.1038/s41567-018-0347-x.

The research team received financial support from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, Ministere de l'Economie, de la Science et de l'Innovation du Quebec, Canada Research Chairs, the Australian Research Council, the European Union, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the John Templeton Foundation, the Government of the Russian Federation, and the 1,000 Talents Program (Sichuan, China).

ABOUT INRS

Institut national de la recherche scientifique is the only institution in Quebec devoted exclusively to graduate-level research and training. The influence of our faculty and students extends around the world. In partnership with the community and with industry, we are proud to contribute to the development of society through our discoveries and through the training we provide to a new generation of scientific, social, and technological innovators.

SOURCE

Stephanie Thibault, Communications Advisor

INRS, 514-499-6612, stephanie.thibault@inrs.caThe World Congress of Cardiology & Cardiovascular Health 2018 will kick off on Wednesday at the Dubai World Trade Centre to run until December 8 in collaboration with the Emirates Cardiac Society and the Gulf Heart Association.



Organised in partnership with the World Heart Federation, the congress is being held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council.



Dubai won the bid to host the event after competing with countries and cities that include Cape Town, Singapore and Korea.



The congress is a global interactive event that aims to promote cardiovascular health by uniting cardiovascular disease specialists with other disciplines to network, share knowledge and build innovative solutions for patients and populations.



Around 4,000 participants representing international organisations and bodies from around the world (such as the World Health Organisation, the European Society of Cardiology, American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology, African Heart Network, and Saudi Heart Association) are expected to attend the congress.



The congress's agenda includes more than 200 scientific sessions on cardiovascular disease and related diseases such as high cholesterol. Six hundred specialists are expected to take part in the conference where 1,000 scientific papers about the latest achievements and challenges in the field will be shared.



The World Congress of Cardiology & Cardiovascular Health 2018 will also provide an interactive programme designed to respond to the needs of professionals.



Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death across the world. According to some studies, heart attacks take place approximately ten years earlier in the Middle East than in many Western countries.



The cardiology department is the second-busiest unit in Rashid Hospital after the Emergency and Trauma Centre.



Dr Fahad Baslaib, consultant Cardiology, CEO of Rashid Hospital and congress president said winning the bid to host such an international congress reflects the medical achievements made by the DHA especially in cardiology and cardiovascular health, which are considered the leading cause of death worldwide.



Dr Baslaib emphasised that the congress, which is considered the biggest event specialising in cardiology and cardiovascular health due to the international calibre of specialist attending, provides an ideal platform for decision makers in the health field to discuss how to achieve the objective set by the World Health Organisation to reduce the global rate of heart attacks by 2025.  TradeArabia News ServicePeter Jonas, Professor at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria), receives the Erwin Schrodinger Prize of the Austrian Academy of Sciences. The Erwin Schrodinger Prize 2018 goes in equal parts to Peter Jonas and Elly Tanaka, biochemist at the IMP. Jonas is honored for his outstanding research achievements in the field of neuroscience, in particular for his significant contribution to the understanding of synaptic signal processing at the molecular and cellular level.

Peter Jonas investigates the function of neuronal microcircuits. Understanding them is one of the greatest challenges in biosciences in the 21st century, as the human brain consists of about one hundred billion neurons connected at billions (1015) of contact points.

These contact points between neurons, called synapses, are divided into two types: excitatory synapses, which secrete the neurotransmitter glutamate, and inhibitory synapses, which secrete the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Peter Jonas's research group investigates the mechanisms of synaptic signals at these highly specialized contact sites in the brain. For this purpose, they use state-of-the-art methods, including recording methods for several cells, subcellular patch-clamp technique, imaging methods to determine intracellular calcium concentration and modelling.

Peter Jonas investigates the relationship between structure and function of synapses. Among other things, he was able to show the amazing energy efficiency of signal transmission. His research on mechanisms of storage, retrieval and differentiation of memories in the hippocampus, a brain region essential for memory, can also contribute to the understanding of the mechanisms underlying brain diseases.

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The Erwin Schrodinger Prize

The Erwin Schrodinger Prize of the Austrian Academy of Sciences is awarded to scholars who work in Austria and who have achieved outstanding scientific achievements in the subjects represented by the mathematics and natural sciences class of the Austrian Academy of Sciences in the broadest sense.

About the person

Peter Jonas completed his medical studies at the University of Giessen in 1987. From 1988-1989 he was postdoc at the Physiological Institute of the University of Giessen, and from 1990-1994 research assistant in the group of Nobel Prize winner Bert Sakmann at the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research in Heidelberg. After his habilitation in 1992 at the University of Heidelberg and a further station at the TU Munich, he was professor and head of the Physiological Institute at the University of Freiburg from 1995-2010. In 2010, Peter Jonas became the first neuroscientist to be appointed to IST Austria; he has since been involved as professor in the development of the institute.

Peter Jonas is a member of the National Academy Leopoldina, the Heidelberg Academy of Sciences and the Academia Europaea. Peter Jonas has been awarded the Wittgenstein Prize of the FWF (2016), the Adolf Fick Prize (2009), the Tsuming Tu Prize (Taiwan, 2007), the Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize of the DFG (2006), the Heinz Maier Leibnitz Prize (1994) and the Max Planck Research Prize for International Cooperation (1998). Jonas received ERC Advanced Grants in 2011 and 2016.BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - In a new study, Indiana University scientists found toxic flame retardants in newly manufactured children's car seats, sparking concerns about children's health. Of the 18 children's car seats tested, 15 contained new or traditional hazardous flame retardant chemicals.

"New replacement flame retardants, often marketed as safer alternatives, are lurking in children's products without rigorous safety testing and may pose risks for children's health," said Marta Venier, associate scientist at IU's School of Public and Environmental Affairs and principal investigator on the study. "The abundance of emerging flame retardant chemicals in children's car seats and the key role these products play as potential sources of chemical exposure is a cause for concern."

The research was conducted in conjunction with the Ecology Center, an independent nonprofit organization in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The car seats tested in this study were purchased by the Ecology Center and shipped to Indiana University for analyses. All of the car seats were newly manufactured between January 2017 and February 2018 and were made in China, Canada, or the United States. In total, the researchers tested 36 different fabric and foam samples from 18 car seats.

For the first time, two cyclic phosphonate esters (PMMMPs) were measured at high levels in North America, suggesting their use as a replacement flame retardant for compounds that are known to be harmful. PMMMPs were found in 34 of the 36 car seat sampled at levels much higher than those of traditional flame retardants. Little is known about their health effects. Two other emerging flame retardants (tris(2,4-di-t-butylphenyl) phosphate (TDTBPP) and resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate) (RDP)) were also measured in baby products for the first time.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were observed in 75 percent of the samples tested, despite being phased out of use in the United States in 2013 over health concerns. However, PBDEs were detected at such low levels that it is unlikely they were added intentionally. They may have been impurities or found in parts containing recycled materials. Conversely, decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) was detected in four samples at high levels, suggesting that it was intentionally used. DBDPE is a brominated flame retardant known to cause oxidative stress, hormone disruption and thyroid problems.

Unlike other baby products, children's car seats are required to meet the flammability standards for car interiors outlined in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 302, which was created in 1971 by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Flame retardants are routinely used as a cost-effective way to meet this standard. However, flame retardants have been linked to a variety of negative health effects, including hormone disruption, impaired brain development, liver damage and cancer. Children are more susceptible to these effects than adults because of their smaller size and their tendency to put their hands and objects in their mouths.

Children can be exposed to flame retardants in car seats by breathing in chemicals that leach into the air out of fabrics and foam. This is especially problematic for children during the summer months, when heat increases the rate at which flame retardants enter the poorly ventilated, semi-closed car environment. Children can also be exposed to flame retardants by ingesting the dust which accumulates inside the vehicle, through skin contact or by chewing on their car seats.

"We found that car seat manufacturers are intentionally moving away from certain toxic chemicals compounds that they know to be harmful, which is good news," said Yan Wu, a postdoctoral researcher at Indiana University and the lead author of the study. "However, we know very little about the replacement chemicals they're using. Car seats are vital for protecting children during a vehicle crash, but more research is needed to ensure that those seats are chemically safe as well."

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"Children's Car Seats Contain Legacy and Novel Flame Retardants," was published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters. Authors include Yan Wu, Kevin Romanak, and Marta Venier of Indiana University's School of Public and Environmental Affairs; Gillian Z. Miller and Jeff Gearhart of the Ecology Center; and Viorica Lopez-Avila of Agilent Technologies.

Two recent studies by several of the same authors covered the detection in the environment of little-known chemicals that are part of a new class of "alternative" flame retardants, TTBP-TAX in April 2018 and TDTBPP in October 2018. Those studies were also published in Environmental Science & Technology.Generating energy from natural gas without climate-damaging CO 2 emissions - that's the promise of a new technology developed in a joint research project by scientists at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and the Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies (IASS) in Potsdam. Natural gas, which mainly consists of methane, is converted into hydrogen and fixed carbon. For their work, the researchers have now received the German Gas Industry Innovation Award. KIT was also honored with a new special award for the most innovative startup which was presented to Ineratec, a spin-off of the research university.

"The German Gas Industry Innovation Award for the new methane cracking process is testament to the innovative spirit of our scientists," says the President of KIT, Professor Holger Hanselka.

"The option of using fossil natural gas in a climate-friendly way in the future can make a major contribution to curb CO 2 emissions. I am very pleased that we, as the research university in the Helmholtz Association, can make this important contribution to climate protection together with our partners." The award was presented to the research team consisting of scientists from KIT and IASS on November 22 in Berlin. The research team also won an additional award voted for by the attendees at the ceremony. The event was held under the auspices of the Federal Minister of Education and Research, Anja Karliczek.

The new process makes it possible to use natural gas in a climate-friendly manner. "Instead of directly burning natural gas, which mainly consists of methane, we break it up into its components hydrogen and carbon," says Dr Stefan Stuckrad who has co-managed the research project at IASS. The hydrogen produced in methane cracking can be used as an energy source in fuel cell vehicles as well as for generating electricity and heat. Applications in the chemical industry are also possible. "So far, hydrogen for the chemical industry has mainly been produced from natural gas by steam methane reforming. During this process, considerable amounts of carbon dioxide are released," says Stuckrad. In addition to hydrogen, very pure powdery carbon is created as a by-product during cracking, the importance of which is constantly increasing as an industrial raw material. For example, it is used in the production of elastomers, lightweight materials, printing inks and batteries.

Methane cracking is not a new idea as such and has previously been analyzed in experiments with gas phase reactors. "Conventional methods proved unsuitable for application at an industrial scale, though," says Professor Thomas Wetzel from the Institute of Thermal Process Engineering (TVT) at KIT. "The carbon produced during cracking was deposited on the heated reactor walls as a solid layer, blocking the reactors in a short space of time. Other approaches on the basis of arc- or plasma-based reactors weren't very successful either." The research project from IASS and KIT has therefore chosen a fundamentally different approach for continuous pyrolytic methane cracking. The basic idea is to use molten tin as a heat transfer and liquid medium in a bubble column reactor. Here, KIT scientists have applied their expertise in liquid metal research and technology. In the Innovation Award winning process, methane gas is continuously fed into a liquid metal column from the bottom, which is kept at a temperature of up to 1,200 degrees Celsius, and rises as a bubble swarm. The gas in the bubbles very quickly reaches the reaction temperature so that pyrolysis reaction takes place. "The bubbles open up on the surface of the liquid tin and release the gaseous hydrogen and carbon," says Wetzel. "The carbon occurs as micro-granular powder that is easy to separate from the gas stream and easy to handle."

The new technology is now for the first time enabling continuous operation of a reactor for methane cracking. A conversion rate as high as 78 percent has been proven on a laboratory scale. The groups of scientists are currently working on further optimizing and scaling the process to pilot level.

###

The team

Nobel Prize winner Professor Carlo Rubbia, who is also the former scientific director of IASS, has initiated the research project on methane cracking. The project has been coordinated at IASS by Dr Stefan Stuckrad and Professor Alberto Abanades. At KIT, researchers from the Karlsruhe Liquid Metal Laboratory (KALLA), the Institute for Pulsed Power and Microwave Technology (IHM) as well as the Institute for Applied Materials (IAM) have been participating in the project. Here the work has been coordinated by Professor Thomas Wetzel from the Institute of Thermal Process Engineering (TVT), Dr Leonid Stoppel (KALLA) and Dr Alfons Weisenburger (HIM).

Special award for INERATEC

Producing synthetic fuels from renewable energy sources inexpensively is also an important element for the energy transformation. Huge systems are required to produce synthetic gasoline, kerosene, diesel and natural gas. Ineratec, a KIT spin-off, builds chemical reactors that are so compact that the assembled system fits in a shipping container and can be used anywhere. At the 2018 German Gas Industry Innovation Award ceremony the young company was honored with a special award for the most innovative startup.

The German Gas Industry Innovation Award

Every two years, the associations of the German gas industry present the German Gas Industry Innovation Award organized by the Association for the Efficient and Environmentally Friendly Use of Energy (ASUE). Award partners of ASUE are the German Technical and Scientific Association for Gas and Water (DVGW), the Association of the German Energy and Water Industry (BDEW) as well as the Zukunft Erdgas industry initiative. The awards are presented in four categories; the project from KIT and IASS on methane cracking was a winner in the "Research & Development" category. INERATEC was honored with a new special award for innovative startups.

Detailed caption: The experimental reactor for methane cracking is a 1.2-meter-high device made from quartz and stainless steel which contains molten tin. In the reactor, cracking takes place in methane bubbles as they rise up. The reactor is part of KALLA (KArlsruhe Liquid Metal LAboratory) where various technologies for the use of liquid metals are developed. (Photo: Amadeus Bramsiepe, KIT)

More about the KIT Energy Center: http://www.energie.kit.edu

Press contact: Martin Heidelberger, Redakteur/Pressereferent, Tel.: +49 721 608-21169, martin.heidelberger@kit.edu

Being The Research University in the Helmholtz Association", KIT creates and imparts knowledge for the society and the environment. It is the objective to make significant contributions to the global challenges in the fields of energy, mobility and information. For this, about 9,300 employees cooperate in a broad range of disciplines in natural sciences, engineering sciences, economics, and the humanities and social sciences. KIT prepares its 25,500 students for responsible tasks in society, industry, and science by offering research-based study programs. Innovation efforts at KIT build a bridge between important scientific findings and their application for the benefit of society, economic prosperity, and the preservation of our natural basis of life.On Saturday, December 1, scientists attending the Gravitational Wave Physics and Astronomy Workshop in College Park, Maryland, presented new results from the National Science Foundation's LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory) and the European- based VIRGO gravitational-wave detector regarding their searches for coalescing cosmic objects, such as pairs of black holes and pairs of neutron stars. The LIGO and Virgo collaborations have now confidently detected gravitational waves from a total of 10 stellar-mass binary black hole mergers and one merger of neutron stars, which are the dense, spherical remains of stellar explosions. Six of the black hole merger events had been reported before, while four are newly announced.

From September 12, 2015, to January 19, 2016, during the first LIGO observing run since undergoing upgrades in a program called Advanced LIGO, gravitational waves from three binary black hole mergers were detected. The second observing run, which lasted from November 30, 2016, to August 25, 2017, yielded one binary neutron star merger and seven additional binary black hole mergers, including the four new gravitational-wave events being reported now. The new events are known as GW170729, GW170809, GW170818, and GW170823, in reference to the dates they were detected.

All of the events are included in a new catalog, also released Saturday, with some of the events breaking records. For instance, the new event GW170729, detected in the second observing run on July 29, 2017, is the most massive and distant gravitational-wave source ever observed. In this coalescence, which happened roughly 5 billion years ago, an equivalent energy of almost five solar masses was converted into gravitational radiation.

GW170814 was the first binary black hole merger measured by the three-detector network, and allowed for the first tests of gravitational-wave polarization (analogous to light polarization).

The event GW170817, detected three days after GW170814, represented the first time that gravitational waves were ever observed from the merger of a binary neutron star system. What's more, this collision was seen in gravitational waves and light, marking an exciting new chapter in multi-messenger astronomy, in which cosmic objects are observed simultaneously in different forms of radiation.

One of the new events, GW170818, which was detected by the global network formed by the LIGO and Virgo observatories, was very precisely pinpointed in the sky. The position of the binary black holes, located 2.5 billion light-years from Earth, was identified in the sky with a precision of 39 square degrees. That makes it the next best localized gravitational-wave source after the GW170817 neutron star merger.

Caltech's Albert Lazzarini, Deputy Director of the LIGO Laboratory, says "The release of four additional binary black hole mergers further informs us of the nature of the population of these binary systems in the universe and better constrains the event rate for these types of events."

"In just one year, LIGO and VIRGO working together have dramatically advanced gravitational- wave science, and the rate of discovery suggests the most spectacular findings are yet to come," says Denise Caldwell, Director of NSF's Division of Physics. "The accomplishments of NSF's LIGO and its international partners are a source of pride for the agency, and we expect even greater advances as LIGO's sensitivity becomes better and better in the coming year."

"The next observing run, starting in Spring 2019, should yield many more gravitational-wave candidates, and the science the community can accomplish will grow accordingly," says David Shoemaker, spokesperson for the LIGO Scientific Collaboration and senior research scientist in MIT's Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research. "It's an incredibly exciting time."

"It is gratifying to see the new capabilities that become available through the addition of Advanced Virgo to the global network," says Jo van den Brand of Nikhef (the Dutch National Institute for Subatomic Physics) and VU University Amsterdam, who is the spokesperson for the Virgo Collaboration. "Our greatly improved pointing precision will allow astronomers to rapidly find any other cosmic messengers emitted by the gravitational-wave sources." The enhanced pointing capability of the LIGO-Virgo network is made possible by exploiting the time delays of the signal arrival at the different sites and the so-called antenna patterns of the interferometers.

"The new catalog is another proof of the exemplary international collaboration of the gravitational wave community and an asset for the forthcoming runs and upgrades" adds EGO Director Stavros Katsanevas.

The scientific papers describing these new findings, which are being initially published on the arXiv repository of electronic preprints, present detailed information in the form of a catalog of all the gravitational wave detections and candidate events of the two observing runs as well as describing the characteristics of the merging black hole population. Most notably, we find that almost all black holes formed from stars are lighter than 45 times the mass of the Sun. Thanks to more advanced data processing and better calibration of the instruments, the accuracy of the astrophysical parameters of the previously announced events increased considerably.

Laura Cadonati, Deputy Spokesperson for the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, says "These new discoveries were only made possible through the tireless and carefully coordinated work of the detector commissioners at all three observatories, and the scientists around the world responsible for data quality and cleaning, searching for buried signals, and parameter estimation for each candidate -- each a scientific specialty requiring enormous expertise and experience."

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The Collaborations

LIGO is funded by NSF and operated by Caltech and MIT, which conceived of LIGO and led the Initial and Advanced LIGO projects. Financial support for the Advanced LIGO project was led by the NSF with Germany (Max Planck Society), the U.K. (Science and Technology Facilities Council) and Australia (Australian Research Council-OzGrav) making significant commitments and contributions to the project. More than 1,200 scientists from around the world participate in the effort through the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, which includes the GEO Collaboration. A list of additional partners is available at https://my.ligo.org/census.php.

The Virgo collaboration consists of more than 300 physicists and engineers belonging to 28 different European research groups: six from Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) in France; 11 from the Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare (INFN) in Italy; two in the Netherlands with Nikhef; the MTA Wigner RCP in Hungary; the POLGRAW group in Poland; Spain with IFAE and the Universities of Valencia and Barcelona; two in Belgium with the Universities of Liege and Louvain; Jena University in Germany; and the European Gravitational Observatory (EGO), the laboratory hosting the Virgo detector near Pisa in Italy, funded by CNRS, INFN, and Nikhef. A list of the Virgo Collaboration can be found at http://public.virgo-gw.eu/the- virgo-collaboration/. More information is available on the Virgo website at http://www.virgo-gw.eu.

Related links

Paper: "GWTC-1: A Gravitational-Wave Transient Catalog of Compact Binary Mergers Observed by LIGO and Virgo during the First and Second Observing Runs" https://arxiv.org/abs/1811.12907

Paper: "Binary Black Hole Population Properties Inferred from the First and Second Observing Runs of Advanced LIGO and Advanced Virgo" https://arxiv.org/abs/1811.12940

Papers available on the arXiv and the LIGO DCC, https://dcc.ligo.org/

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agreenwe@nsf.gov; +1 703-292-8070Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina report in Inflammation that miR-126, a microRNA that helps protect against sepsis, can be delivered successfully via a nanocarrier to improve survival in a preclinical model

One in three patients who die in the U.S. dies of sepsis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is one of the leading causes of death in intensive care units and, with an estimated price tag of $20 billion in 2011, the most expensive condition that hospitals treat.

Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) found that sepsis outcomes in a preclinical model significantly improved when a microRNA (miRNA), specifically miR-126, which is known to protect against sepsis, was delivered via a nanocarrier. Almost 67 percent of mice treated with one of the nanocarrier/miR-126 complexes were still alive at seven days vs. just 25 percent of untreated mice. Their findings were reported in an article published online on September 23, 2018 in Inflammation.

"The exciting part is that we can use nanoparticles as a delivery system to carry microRNAs. It's feasible--we can do this," says Hongkuan Fan, Ph.D., senior author of the article and an assistant professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at MUSC who studies vascular dysfunction in sepsis.

Sepsis is an overreaction of the body's immune system to an infection. Chemicals called cytokines flood the bloodstream in an attempt to fight the infection but also cause blood vessels to become leaky. White blood cells escape from the vessels, causing inflammation and damage to surrounding tissue, ultimately leading to multi-organ failure and death.

MicroRNAs are noncoding RNAs that are being assessed for therapeutic use in cancer and other diseases because they can prevent messenger RNA from creating proteins that can harm the body. Previous research by Fan's group has shown that an miRNA -- miR-126 -- is protective against sepsis. It is a major component of the fluid-filled sacs produced by endothelial progenitor cells. Fan's group has also shown that these cells, which regenerate the lining of blood vessels, help protect against the vascular damage caused by sepsis.

One obstacle to the clinical use of miRNAs, however, are ribonucleases (RNases), whose job it is to seek out and destroy them. Naturally occurring miRNAs are protected from RNases by a fluid-filled sac that covers them or a protein to which they are attached, but those introduced therapeutically have no such protection.

"If we were to just put an unprotected micro-RNA into the body, then it would immediately get chewed up by RNases," explains Joy N. Jones Buie, Ph.D., MSCR, a postdoctoral fellow at MUSC and the first author on the article. "So that's why you have to have some type of vehicle system to deliver the micro-RNA. Otherwise, if it's exposed to all these enzymes, it will immediately be destroyed."

The MUSC researchers showed that a proprietary nanocarrier (DEAC-pGlcNAc; Marine Polymer Technologies [Burlington, MA]) could deliver miR-126 effectively in a mouse model of sepsis, protecting it against damage by RNases. Its small size prevented its elimination by the liver, and its electrical charge was such that it was easily taken up by cells. The researchers were also able to verify that the nanoparticle successfully delivered miR-126 into the cell's nucleus by tagging it with a fluorescent dye.

"We could actually see them together using the microscope," says Jones Buie. "That showed that the micro-RNA was actually getting into the cell and associating with the cell's nucleus."

The mIR-126/nanocarrier complex more than doubled the proportion of mice alive at seven days vs. untreated mice in a preclinical model of sepsis (almost 67 percent vs. 25 percent). The nanoparticle, which has antibacterial properties, improved survival even when not complexed with miR-126, though not to a significant degree.

"Based on this and our previous studies, we know that targeted delivery of miR-126 has some therapeutic effect in a preclinical model of sepsis," says Fan. "Something is working, and that is exciting in a condition as severe and complicated as sepsis. We think that miR-126 has a promising future and will continue to explore it as well as the use of nanocarriers and other vehicles for its delivery."

###

This research was supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), grant UL1 TR 001450, awarded to The South Carolina Clinical and Translational Research (SCTR) Institute, as well as other NIH funding. The study's findings are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the NIH or NCATS. Financial and technical support were provided by Marine Polymer Sciences.

About MUSC

Founded in 1824 in Charleston, The Medical University of South Carolina is the oldest medical school in the South. Today, MUSC continues the tradition of excellence in education, research, and patient care. MUSC educates and trains more than 3,000 students and residents, and has nearly 13,000 employees, including approximately 1,500 faculty members. As the largest non-federal employer in Charleston, the university and its affiliates have collective annual budgets in excess of $2.2 billion. MUSC operates a 700-bed medical center, which includes a nationally recognized Children's Hospital, the Ashley River Tower (cardiovascular, digestive disease, and surgical oncology), Hollings Cancer Center (a National Cancer Institute-designated center) Level I Trauma Center, and Institute of Psychiatry. For more information on academic programs or clinical services, visit musc.edu. For more information on hospital patient services, visit muschealth.org.

About the South Carolina Clinical and Translational Research (SCTR) Institute

The South Carolina Clinical and Translational Research (SCTR) Institute, a National Institutes of Health Clinical and Translational Science Awards hub, is the catalyst for changing the culture of biomedical research, facilitating sharing of resources and expertise, and streamlining research-related processes to bring about large-scale, change in the clinical and translational research efforts in South Carolina. Our vision is to improve health outcomes and quality of life for the population through discoveries translated into evidence-based practice.An international team of astronomers using a combination of ground and space based telescopes have reported more than 100 extrasolar planets (here after, exoplanets) in only three months. These planets are quite diverse and expected to play a large role in developing the research field of exoplanets and life in the Universe.

Exoplanets, planets that revolve around stars other than the Sun, have been actively researched in recent years. One of the reasons is the success of the Kepler Space Telescope, which launched in 2009 to search for exoplanets. If a planet crosses (transits) in front of its parent star, then the observed brightness of the star drops by a small amount. The Kepler Space Telescope detected many exoplanets using this method. However, such dimming phenomena could be caused by other reasons. Therefore, confirmation that the phenomena are really caused by exoplanets is very important. The Kepler space telescope experienced mechanical trouble in 2013, which led to a successor mission called K2. Astronomers around the world are competing to confirm exoplanets suggested by the K2 data.

An international research team involving researchers at the University of Tokyo and Astrobiology Center of the National Institutes of Natural Sciences investigated 227 K2 exoplanet candidates using other space telescopes and ground-based telescopes. They confirmed that 104 of them are really exoplanets. Seven of the confirmed exoplanets have ultra-short orbital periods less than 24 hours. The formation process of exoplanets with such short orbital periods is still unclear. Further study of these ultra-short period planets will help to advance research into the processes behind their formation. They also confirmed many low-mass rocky exoplanets with masses less than twice that of the Earth as well as some planetary systems with multiple exoplanets.

Mr. John Livingston, a Ph.D. student at the University of Tokyo and lead author of the papers reporting the exoplanets, explains, "Although the Kepler Space Telescope has been officially retired by NASA, its successor space telescope, called TESS, has already started collecting data. In just the first month of operations, TESS has already found many new exoplanets, and it will continue to discover many more. We can look forward to many new exciting discoveries in the coming years."

###A family's involvement in a child's education acts as a source of social mobility, according to a study by experts from the HSE Centre of Social and Economic School Development, Mikhail Goshin and Tatyana Mertsalova http://doi.org/10.17323/1814-9545-2018-3-68-90. Lower income parents who actively participate in their children's school life open up more opportunities for their children.

The research is based on the larger HSE study Monitoring of the Economics of Education. Respondents came from nearly 4,000 families in nine different federal districts and various types of localities.

Many studies have proven that a parent's income and education levels, i.e., their socioeconomic status, impact their child's success. Schoolchildren from families with a higher socioeconomic status typically have better academic performance and, as a result, end up going to college. Conversely, children from lower income families have 'less of a chance that they will get an education at the same level as their wealthier classmates,' Mertsalova notes. It is less common for such students to continue their education after graduating, and they ultimately become less qualified specialists in their field. A vicious cycle arises whereby inequality is reproduced, Mertsalova adds.

This study has shown, however, that the cycle can be broken and a child can be given a better future. A lot depends on how involved the child's family is with his or her studies. The more active a parent is, the better a student's performance will be. This means broader educational opportunity.

A family's interest in a student's school life helps the child overcome educational inequality. A high level of parental involvement 'offsets the difference in success among children from families with different economic statuses,' the researchers write. A family's activity level 'has an indirect impact so that a child's academic performance and opportunities are no worse' than that of his or her peers from wealthier families, Mertsalova explains.

The attitude of a family towards school impacts whether a student pursues higher education. The socioeconomic status of parents determines not only opportunities, but motives as well. Among families less involved in academics, 13.5% of wealthy parents said they did not want their children to go to college, while this figure was nearly 50% for lower income parents. At the same time, the percentage of teenagers not planning to continue their education was roughly the same for both lower income and wealthy families who took an interest in academics.

To analyse the link between a child's grades and family involvement in academics, the researchers identified several levels of parental activity. At the 'zero' level - when a family does not care about academics -- the child typically receives C's and D's.

The first, or basic, level presupposes 'nurture and communication' -- that is, that the parent is in contact with teachers and pays attention to grades and events from class. In this way, upwards of 90% of families participate in school life. 'Children whose parents are involved in their education at this level have higher academic performance compared to those whose parents don't take part in their education,' the authors note.

Only a few parents demonstrate a high level of involvement, which is categorised by participation in the management of school and educational policy at the local community level. Some 13.1% of parents take part in decision-making regarding the school's development (in the form of councilmembers, for example). Lastly, 3.4% of families collaborate with the education authorities. They are typically parents with a higher socioeconomic status, many of whom hold PhDs or management positions. In these families, children achieve the highest academic results.

The average level of parental involvement involves parents helping children with homework, as well as volunteering to help organise different events at school. Roughly half of Russian parents are involved with both, the authors note. The academic achievement of schoolchildren from such families is higher than that of their peers from families interested in schooling at only the basic level, the researchers conclude.

###A new independent report predicts the uptake of robotics and automation could boost economic growth in Queensland, Australia, by 1 to 2 per cent each year over the next decade, adding between $37.4 billion and $117.5 billion to Gross State Product (GSP).

The Robotics and Automation Advantage for Queensland report also identifies that embracing automation could provide anywhere between 492,950 and 1.165 million jobs by 2028.

The comprehensive report, developed by Synergies Economic Consulting in collaboration with Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and the Queensland Government, provides a range of potential outcomes for the state based on anticipated productivity growth and the pace of automation.

The 'most likely' scenario from adoption of robotics and automation in Queensland over 10 years is:

1.5 per cent per annum growth

An additional $77.2 billion in GSP

725,810 jobs created - 485,000 more jobs in the state's economy than over the past decade.

The Robotics and Automation Advantage report was released to coincide with the recent Queensland Government Future of Work - Skills and Industry Summit held in Brisbane.

It finds that potential benefits from robotics and automation, particularly for productivity improvements, new jobs, and enabling former Queensland-based companies to reshore operations, are "substantial". And it concludes the faster the uptake across the state's industries, the greater the benefits and the lesser the impacts on job dislocation.

QUT Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Margaret Sheil said it was imperative that Government, universities and industry bodies worked together to enable Queenslanders to take advantage of the opportunities of the new robotics age.

"QUT is a recognised international leader in robotics and has invested significantly in terms of building both research capability as well as delivering practical robotic outcomes, such as RangerBot, the robot destined to help manage crown-of-thorns starfish on the Great Barrier Reef," Professor Sheil said.

She said the report sent a strong signal on the importance of training and education in the STEM areas of science, technology, engineering and maths because technology, robots and automation would have widespread impact on human life.

QUT's Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Commercialisation) Professor Arun Sharma said the report gave five key directions for Queensland to remain competitive and take advantage of the benefits of robotics and automation:

providing appropriate technical advice especially to small and medium-sized industries

developing adequate funding sources (including seed funding) for technical development

developing a skilled workforce

providing industry-specific adjustment support, and

promoting the wealth-generating potential of robotics and automation.

Professor Sharma said much research into robotics and the development of prototypes had been achieved by universities, often in partnership with industry and government.

He said QUT was developing a robotics research project to create vision-enabled, agile and adaptable robots that small and medium-sized enterprises could use easily to make high-value products that open export opportunities and create more jobs.

Dr Sue Keay, Chief Operating Officer of the Australian Centre for Robotic Vision, headquartered at QUT, said the new report reinforced Centre-led research that robotics is key to Australia attaining productivity growth and maintaining its standard of living.

The Centre's report A Robotics Roadmap for Australia sets out how Australia can harness the benefits of a new robot economy by supporting automation across all sectors of the economy.

Looking ahead, Dr Keay said Queensland was perfectly positioned to host a world-leading 'technology cluster' to further advance development of a robot economy with national and global impact.

"A good example of this can be seen in the transformation of Pittsburgh in the United States, where a cluster of small- to-medium sized enterprises secured $499 million venture capital in 2014-15 alone.

"Similar to Queensland, Pittsburgh's key to success was the existence of a well-established robotics-focused university, opening the door to cutting-edge innovation and collaboration."

###TROY, N.Y. -- Small animals at the base of the freshwater food chain can rapidly adapt to salt pollution - from sources like winter road deicing, agriculture, and mining - but at a price. In a special December edition of Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B devoted to freshwater salt pollution, research shows that salt-adapted freshwater zooplankton grow 65 percent slower than regular zooplankton. Their slow growth cascades down the food chain in environments polluted with the most commonly found salt, triggering algal blooms.

"There's an upside and a downside to evolving salt tolerance," said Rick Relyea, principal investigator and professor and director of the Darrin Fresh Water Institute and member of the Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. "The upside is the animals are more protected in moderately salt-polluted environments. But there is a cost for having this tolerance to salt, and as this work shows, one of the downsides is that the animals grow much more slowly."

The finding is one of two articles in the special edition "Salt in freshwaters: causes, ecological consequences and future prospects," published today. The issue explores how human activities that are increasing concentrations of salts in rivers, wetlands, and lakes "adversely affect freshwater biodiversity, and the ecosystem functions and services on which human societies rely."

Relyea's research team, which is investigating the effects of salt on aquatic environments through its work with the Jefferson Project on Lake George, also contributed an opinion piece calling attention to inadequate regulations. In "Regulations are needed to protect freshwater ecosystems from salinization," the research team pointed to regional inconsistencies in regulations governing acceptable levels of salinization, and a failure to differentiate between different types of salts, despite their vastly disparate environmental effects.

"If we want to prevent salt pollution from harming our freshwater ecosystems, we need consequential regulations informed by science that protect fresh waters across ecosystems, not political jurisdictions," said Matt Schuler, first author of the opinion article.

The research article, "Evolved tolerance to freshwater salinization in zooplankton: life-history, trade-offs, cross-tolerance and reducing cascading effects," is one of 14 Relyea's lab has published in the past two years on the effects of salt on aquatic ecosystems. In 2017, the team published research showing that a common species of zooplankton, Daphnia pulex, could evolve genetic tolerance to moderate levels of road salt in as little as two and a half months. Later that year, research conducted in cooperation with Rensselaer researcher Jennifer Hurley showed that the salt-adapted zooplankton had suppressed circadian rhythms.

"We knew there might be trade-offs, and we wanted to understand how those tradeoffs played out, from the individual organism to the ecosystem," said Bill Hintz, first author of the research article.

In using descendants of the same salt-tolerant zooplankton the team raised the previous year, one finding was quickly apparent: tolerance is persistent. Although about 30 generations separated the original population from their descendants, both groups showed the same tolerance to salt.

Ordinary zooplankton, which eat algae, die in moderately salty conditions. This causes a "cascading effect" of salt pollution whereby salinized freshwater is susceptible to algal blooms. Although the salt-tolerant zooplankton survive in moderately salty conditions, their slower growth meant tolerant populations were unable to control algal blooms in the presence of the most common road salt, sodium chloride. However, salt-tolerant zooplankton were able to control algal blooms in the presence of moderate pollution from two alternative road salts: magnesium chloride and calcium chloride.

"Because the salt-tolerant Daphnia are able to survive, you would hope that you wouldn't see a big algal bloom. We see this for some salt types, but that's not what we're seeing for all salt types," said Relyea. "The zooplankton are protected, but it doesn't always stop the phytoplankton from blooming."

The team also established that, although the zooplankton evolved higher salt tolerance in the presence of sodium chloride, they were also more tolerant of other common salt pollutants, such a magnesium chloride and calcium chloride, a trait known as "cross tolerance."

###

Relyea, Hintz, and Schuler were joined in their work by Devin K. Jones, Miguel Cannedo-Arguelles, of the Universitat de Barcelona, Brenda Dyack of the University of Canberra, and Sebastian Birk of the University of Duisburg-Essen. The research was supported by the Jefferson Project at Lake George, a collaboration between Rensselaer, IBM Research, and The FUND for Lake George, dedicated to using advanced technology and science to understand and protect freshwater from the impacts of human activity.

About Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is America's first technological research university. Rensselaer encompasses five schools, 32 research centers, more than 145 academic programs, and a dynamic community made up of more than 7,900 students and over 100,000 living alumni. Rensselaer faculty and alumni include more than 145 National Academy members, five members of the National Inventors Hall of Fame, six National Medal of Technology winners, five National Medal of Science winners, and a Nobel Prize winner in Physics. With nearly 200 years of experience advancing scientific and technological knowledge, Rensselaer remains focused on addressing global challenges with a spirit of ingenuity and collaboration. To learn more, please visit http://www.rpi.edu.Risk and benefit perceptions are crucial to people's acceptance of a particular technology and therefore their willingness to become a consumer. It has been suggested that, due to resource restraints, consumers' perceptions are frequently formed based on heuristics and biases, or other factors such as trust or affect. While some consumer behaviors may seem irrational, their actions are actually quite predictable based on heuristics.

Prior to the introduction of scientific risk analysis for the detection of toxicological risks, individuals relied on their senses to detect risks, a practice coined as 'intuitive toxicology.' Substances used in consumer products, such as food additives and cleaning products, are put through intensive risk assessment, but the processes are complex and there is some lingering controversy regarding the associated levels of uncertainty, with a lot of misinformation available on the internet on these allegedly dangerous chemicals. Consumers lack the resources necessary to judge the uncertainty and rely on heuristics and their trust in different potentially unreliable resources.

Angela Bearth, Ph.D., ETH Zurich, revisited work previously done on intuitive toxicology in her presentation, "Intuitive toxicology revisited: People's understanding of toxicological principles and implications for the risk perception of chemicals." Bearth related consumers' knowledge about toxicological principles to their risk perceptions and preferences for a variety of consumer products (e.g., cleaning products, medicines, foods). The study confirms that consumers have very limited knowledge regarding the processes undertaken to ensure the safety of consumer products. An area of particular concern was misconceptions held regarding man-made versus natural chemicals.

Food technologies such as gene technology or meat cultured from stem cells can be perceived as unnatural and thus evoke feelings of disgust which will divert individuals from accepting the product. Michael Siegrist, Ph.D., ETH Zurich examined whether different food technologies evoke different levels of disgust. Participants responded to questions about a variety of new food technology applications - genetically modified meat, edible nanotechnology coating films, artificial meat and synthetically produced food additives. The study, "The impact of disgust on risk perception and acceptance of novel food technologies," suggests that willingness to eat was negatively associated with disgust responses toward the technologies.

Gulbanu Kaptan, Ph.D., Leeds University, and her team of researchers examined the role of cognitive and affective judgements in food evaluations and eating decisions. Cognitive judgements were represented by concerns about food being nutritious and safe, whereas affective judgements were represented by ethics, craving and disgust. An online survey was conducted to determine how these attributes were related to food evaluations and eating decisions.

The results of the study, "The role of denotative and connotative judgements in food evaluations and eating decisions," revealed that affective judgements were more strongly related to these evaluations and decisions. People generally liked and chose to eat foods with high ratings on the positive connotative attributes even if they believed they were not very nutritious, whereas they avoided foods with negative connotative judgements even if they were deemed nutritious and safe to eat. The study's findings have implications for interventions that aim to change people's eating habits.

These studies will be presented during the Heuristics, Biases and Other Seemingly Irrational Factors in People's Decisions Regarding Innovative Technologies, Foods and Other Consumer Goods symposium, followed by a round table discussion, on Monday, Dec. 3 from 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at the 2018 Society for Risk Analysis (SRA) Annual Meeting at the New Orleans Marriott in New Orleans, Louisiana.

###

**Angela Bearth, Ph.D., ETH Zurich, will be available for media interviews at the 2018 SRA Annual Meeting. Please contact Melanie Preve at melanie@bigvoicecomm.com for all interview requests.

About SRA

The Society for Risk Analysis is a multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, scholarly, international society that provides an open forum for all those interested in risk analysis. SRA was established in 1980 and has published Risk Analysis: An International Journal, the leading scholarly journal in the field, continuously since 1981. For more information, visit http://www.sra.org.Dubai is determined to turn the challenges into opportunities as it tackles global cybersecurity threats on its path to continued growth, said the emirates IT security chief at the recent Hack In The Box (HITB) Security Conference, in Dubai, UAE.



Speaking as he opened the two-day event, Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) director general, Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, explained that the Dubai Cyber Security Strategy launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Rule of Dubai, aims to strengthen Dubai's position as a world leader in innovation, safety and security in collaboration with the relevant partners.



Al Shaibani said: The bigger the challenges, the more determined we are to ensure that Dubai is the safest city in the digital world.



Promoting cyber security research and innovation is a pillar of the Dubai Cyber Security Strategy which will create new jobs and investment opportunities. Rather than viewing it as a challenge, we see it as an opportunity to call for greater collaboration with the private sector to ensure that Dubai remains a global centre of excellence  a cyber smart society with a free, fair and secure cyber space that is able to manage the risks it faces while maintaining flexibility and growth, he added.



The conference is organised by Hack In The Box in association with DESC and local partner DarkMatter Group, the regions first and only fully-integrated digital transformation, defence and cyber security consultancy and implementation firm.



Several prominent figures in the global cyber security industry also spoke at the opening, including Luta security founder and chief executive officer Katie Moussouris, an information security veteran who has been a consultant to both the US Government and European Parliament.



F-Secure chief research officer Mikko Hypponen, a worldwide authority on computer security, who is listed among Foreign Policy Magazines Top 100 Global Thinkers, will be presenting a keynote speech tomorrow.



DarkMatter Group senior vice president sales, business development and marketing Rabih Dabboussi said: This is a timely return to the Middle East for the HITB conference, as the region continues its rapid adoption of digital infrastructure and solutions.



The rise of smart cities, and the adoption of IOT and AI within many government entities and enterprises raises the demand for cyber security awareness and capabilities, Dabboussi said.



Our company partnered with HITB in the quest to empower the local professional community and pursue the common goal of creating cyber resilience for the entire region. To combat cybercrime, it is essential that we prepare the next generation of digital talent and equip them with the right technical training and skills. Hosting conferences such as this will make the UAE a focal point in the region for cyber experts, helping us attract the most skilled and ambitious in the field, Dabboussi added.



Among the various event highlights are a range of live hacking demonstrations, including a car hacking area in which experts will show participants how they are able to take control of modern vehicles remotely.



Alongside this, HITBs popular Capture The Flag (CTF) competition, sees several international teams competing in the kick off leg of the 2019 HITB CTF series.



In addition to the professional-level competition, HITB is also hosting an edu-level Capture the Flag for undergraduate and high school students aimed at motivating UAEs younger talent.



In parallel with HITB, DarkMatter Group is organising a business track called Beyond Cyber where senior IT and C-level executives are learning about Threat Intelligence, Digital Transformation and Cyber Transformation, it stated.  TradeArabia News ServiceKAIST will participate in Kenya's strategic economic development plan under the provision of a turnkey-based science and technology education consultancy for the establishment of the Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (Kenya KAIST).

KAIST signed the contract on November 30 with the Konza Technopolis Development Authority to establish Kenya KAIST. Korea Eximbank will offer a 95 million USD loan to the Kenyan government for this project.

The project will include the educational and architectural design and construction of Kenya KAIST. The campus will be constructed in the Konza Techno City nearby Nairobi by 2021, with the first batch of 200 graduate students starting classes in 2022. KAIST, in consortium with Samwoo and Sunjin architecture and engineering companies, will take the lead of the three-year project, with the kick-off ceremony planned at the end of next January in Nairobi.

The Kenyan government plans to transform Kenya into a middle-income country under Vision 2030 through promoting science, technology, and innovation for national economic growth. Nicknamed Africa's Silicon Savannah, Konza Techno City is a strategic science and technology hub to realize this vision. To this end, the medium-term plan set a goal to provide specialized research and training in various leading-edge engineering and advanced science fields.

In the two-phase evaluation of the consultancy bidding, KAIST won preferred bidder status in the technical proposal evaluation, outbidding three other Korean consortia. Invited to the financial proposal bidding, the KAIST consortium successfully completed month-long contract negotiations with Kenya last week.

KAIST will develop academic curricula for six initial departments (Mechanical Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, ICT Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Agricultural Biotechnology), which will lay the ground work for engineering research and education in Kenya to meet emerging socioeconomic demands. In addition, KAIST will provide the education of basic sciences of math, physics, chemistry, and biology for students.

It is also notable that the Kenyan government asked to develop an industry-academy cooperation program in Konza Techno City. It reflects the growing industrial needs of Kenya KAIST, which will be located in the center of the Konza Technopolis. It is anticipated that the technopolis will create 16,675 jobs in the medium term and over 200,000 after completion, positioning Kenya as an ICT hub within the region.

KAIST also shares a similar history of establishment with Kenya KAIST, as it will be built with a foreign loan. KAIST, created by the Korean government in 1971 to drive the economic engine through advancement of science and technology with a six-million USD loan from USAID, has now become a donor institution that hands down science and technology education systems including the construction of campuses to underdeveloped countries.

The successful case of KAIST has been benchmarked by many countries for years. For instance, KAIST set up the curriculum of the nuclear engineering program at the Khalifa University of Science and Technology in UAE in 2010. In China, Chongqing University of Technology is running its electrical engineering and computer science programs based on the educational systems and curricula offered by KAIST from 2015. In October, KAIST also signed an MOU with the Prince Mohammad Bin Salman College of Cyber Security, AI, and Advanced Technologies in Saudi Arabia to provide the undergraduate program for robotics.

Among all these programs benchmarking KAIST, Kenya KAIST clearly stands out, for it is carrying out a turnkey-based project that encompasses every aspect of institution building ranging from educational curriculum development to campus construction and supervision.

President Sung-Chul Shin is extremely excited about finalizing the deal, remarking, "It is of great significance that KAIST's successful development model has carved out a unique path to becoming a global leading university that will benefit other countries. In only a half century, we have transitioned from a receiver to a donor institution, as the country itself has done."

"KAIST will spare no effort for Kenya KAIST to become a successful science and technology university that will play a crucial role in Kenya's national development. I believe Kenya KAIST will be an exemplary case of an ODA (Official Development Assistance) project based on the development of science and technology to benefit underdeveloped countries," he added.

###Sleep hygiene, which includes practices like providing a cool and quiet sleeping environment or reading before bed time to help kids unwind, is increasingly popular among parents looking to ensure their children get a good night's rest. But are these practices all they're cracked up to be? University of British Columbia sleep expert and nursing professor Wendy Hall recently led a review of the latest studies to find out.

"Good sleep hygiene gives children the best chances of getting adequate, healthy sleep every day. And healthy sleep is critical in promoting children's growth and development," said Hall. "Research tells us that kids who don't get enough sleep on a consistent basis are more likely to have problems at school and develop more slowly than their peers who are getting enough sleep."

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends the following amounts of sleep, based on age group:

4 to 12 months - 12 to 16 hours

1 to 2 years - 11 to 14 hours

3 to 5 years - 10 to 13 hours

6 to 12 years - 9 to 12 hours

13 to 18 years - 8 to 10 hours

The UBC review aimed at systematically analyzing the evidence for sleep hygiene across different countries and cultures, and honed in on 44 studies from 16 countries. The focus was on four age groups in particular: infants and toddlers (four months to two years), preschoolers (three to five years), school-age children (six to 12 years) and adolescents (13 to 18 years). These studies involved close to 300,000 kids in North America, Europe and Asia.

"We found good-to-strong endorsement of certain sleep hygiene practices for younger kids and school-age kids: regular bedtimes, reading before bed, having a quiet bedroom, and self-soothing--where you give them opportunities to go to sleep and go back to sleep on their own, if they wake up in the middle of the night," said Hall.

Even for older kids, keeping a regular bedtime was important. The review found papers that showed that adolescents whose parents set strict guidelines about their sleep slept better than kids whose parents didn't set any guidelines.

Hall and co-author Elizabeth Nethery, a nursing PhD student at UBC, also found extensive evidence for limiting technology use just before bedtime, or during the night when kids are supposed to be sleeping. Studies in Japan, New Zealand and the United States showed that the more exposure kids had to electronic media around bedtime, the less sleep they had.

"One big problem with school-age children is it can take them a long time to get to sleep, so avoiding activities like playing video games or watching exciting movies before bedtime was important," said Hall.

Many of the studies also highlighted the importance of routines in general. A study in New Zealand showed family dinner time was critical to helping adolescents sleep.

Information provided by Chinese studies and one Korean study linked school-age children's and adolescents' short sleep duration to long commute times between home and school and large amounts of evening homework. With more children coping with longer commutes and growing amounts of school work, Hall says this is an important area for future study in North America.

Surprisingly, there wasn't a lot of evidence linking caffeine use before bedtime to poor sleep; it appeared to be the total intake during the day that matters.

While Hall said more studies are needed to examine the effect of certain sleep hygiene factors on sleep quality, she would still strongly recommend that parents set bedtimes, even for older kids, and things like sitting down for a family dinner, establishing certain rituals like reading before bed, and limiting screen time as much as possible.

"Sleep education can form part of school programming," added Hall. "There was a project in a Montreal school where everyone was involved in designing and implementing a sleep intervention--the principal, teachers, parents, kids, and even the Parent Advisory Council. The intervention was effective, because everyone was on board and involved from the outset."

###

"What does sleep hygiene have to offer children's sleep problems?" in Paediatric Respiratory Reviews is available online at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1526054218301374. Contact lou.bosshart@ubc.ca to obtain a copy or to schedule interviews with the researchers.Jellyfish undergo an amazing metamorphosis, from tiny polyps growing on the seafloor to swimming medusae with stinging tentacles. This shape-shifting has served them well, shepherding jellyfish through more than 500 million years of mass extinctions on Earth.

"Whatever they're doing has really worked for them," said David Gold, an assistant professor of paleobiology in the UC Davis College of Letters and Science.

The first in-depth look at the genome of a jellyfish -- the moon jelly Aurelia aurita -- reveals the origins of this successful survival strategy. The Aurelia genome, published online Dec. 3 in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution, indicates early jellyfish recycled existing genes to morph from polyp to medusa. The results suggest animals can radiate into new niches and forms fairly easily.

"These findings provide further evidence that evolution doesn't necessarily make the genetic code more complex," said Gold, a lead researcher on the genome study. "Jellyfish can build a big, complex life history using many of the same genes found in simpler animals."

The research team was led equally by Gold, who performed much of the work as a postdoctoral fellow at the California Institute of Technology, and by Takeo Katsuki, a project scientist at the Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind at UC San Diego.

The genome: a multi-use tool

Jellyfish come from one of the oldest branches on the animal family tree, the phylum Cnidaria, which includes corals and anemones. Jellyfish were probably the first muscle-powered swimmers in the open ocean. They appeared in the late Precambrian Era, a period of major geologic and ecological changes that preceded the Cambrian explosion of animal life.

At some point in their evolution, jellyfish gained the ability to transition from a stationary polyp to a swimming medusa. The transition involves major changes in the jellyfish nervous system, muscles and weaponry, aka the stinging cells called cnidocytes. To accomplish this, the medusa life stage often co-opts existing developmental gene networks and cell types present in polyps, the researchers found. In addition, Aurelia appears to pattern its different life stages using many of the same genes found in animals such as fruit flies and humans, the study reports. (all of these animals share a common ancestor, albeit an ancient one.)

There is a second, more controversial explanation for what the scientists found in the jellyfish genome. Perhaps the similarities between the moon jellyfish genome and "higher" animals demonstrates that the Cnidaria originally had a medusa life stage, which animals like corals and sea anemones lost.

"Our results can't distinguish between these two scenarios," said Gold. If the second hypothesis turns out to be correct, "Swimming, carnivorous animals may be even older than we think." In addition to questions of evolution, the Aurelia genome will prove valuable in many other areas of biology, Gold said. Aurelia is an important model for studying the development and function of nervous systems, and can offer insights into animal wound healing and regeneration. Moon jellies are also a major culprit in environmentally and economically damaging jellyfish blooms, which are becoming more common. For example, giant swarms of moon jellies have clogged water-intake pipes, forcing the shutdown of nuclear plants in Florida and Sweden. An improved understanding of Aurelia genetics could offer new ideas for controlling the blooms.

"In many ways, the ancient oceans in the late Precambrian are very much like what the modern oceans will look like in the near future," Gold said "meaning studying how jellyfish evolved in the past can tell us about their potential impact on the future."

###

Additional authors on the paper are: Yang Li and Xifeng Yan, UC Santa Barbara; Michael Regulski, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, New York; David Ibberson and Thomas Holstein, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany; Robert E. Steele, UC Irvine; David K. Jacobs, UCLA and Ralph J. Greenspan, UC San Diego.

Funding was provided by the National Institutes of Health, a Cordes Postdoctoral Fellowship at Caltech, the W.M. Keck Foundation, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, a fellowship from the Uehara Memorial Foundation, and the NASA Astrobiology Institute.CINCINNATI--A gene mutation that is believed to have safeguarded some people in 14th century Europe from the bubonic plague today may be protecting HIV patients co-infected with hepatitis C from potentially fatal liver scarring, says a University of Cincinnati (UC) College of Medicine physician-scientist.

Kenneth Sherman, MD, PhD, director of the UC Division of Digestive Diseases, led a team of scientists looking at how the CCR5-delta 32 gene mutation could protect HIV patients. The study's results are available online in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases.

Sherman says he and a team of researchers from UC, the University of Maryland and the North Carolina-based Research Triangle Institute studied the blood samples of two cohorts of patients--one included individuals enrolled in the Multicenter Hemophilia Cohort Study, which included hemophilia patients who in the 1980s received untreated blood products contaminated with HIV and hepatitis C virus.

"If they did not succumb to complications of HIV early on, many of them went on to have rapidly progressive liver disease that we now know occurs in the setting of untreated hepatitis C and HIV infection," says Sherman, also Gould Professor of Medicine and a UC Health physician. "This is a group that has a rapid progression of liver fibrosis. The question we asked, 'Is there is a subset of people who carry the gene that leads to a defect in CCR5, which is a receptor for some key elements of the immune system that modulate inflammation?'

"We identified within that cohort a group of patients for which there were serial samples collected over a period of four years on average and we classified those using biomarkers of fibrosis progression and whether or not they carry the mutation in CCR5 called the CCR5-Delta 32 mutation," says Sherman.

Previous studies have suggested that the CCR5-delta mutation was enriched in people of European descent and then passed down by the survivors of the Black Death which swept Europe in the 14th century killing up to a third of its population. It confers a survival advantage to those infected with HIV because HIV uses the CCR5 receptor to enter immune cells, explains Sherman.

"Our belief was that this gene mutation would confer an advantage to individuals who have it in terms of their lowered risk of developing progressive liver fibrosis," says Sherman. "We matched patients with and without the gene mutation and used measures of hepatic fibrosis that involved the use of a biomarker panel called the ELF Index (enhanced liver fibrosis).

"It turned out that the patients who had the mutation appeared to have less fibrosis progression by the measure that we used than those who did not have the mutation," says Sherman. "That was evidence that the presence of a CCR5 mutation was possibly altering the rates of fibrosis progression in patients infected with hepatitis C and HIV."

A second cohort of patients in the study included HIV patients who had no known liver disease and were enrolled in a clinical trial testing a new experimental drug called Cenicriviroc. It has the ability to block CCR5, a protein that is the main chemokine receptor on the body's immune cells or T-cells, and is used by HIV to enter and kill those defenders of the body.

Cenicriviroc could also block a second receptor known as CCR2. Patients in this trial were given the drug to see its effectiveness in battling HIV. Samples from the trial were utilized to determine the ELF Index. Patients with HIV who received a higher dose of Cenicriviroc showed a decrease in liver fibrosis (scarring) markers over a one-year period, explains Sherman. Liver scarring can cause life-threatening liver failure.

He says this is important to know because in HIV patients many processes--not just viral processes-- can lead to liver scarring. "If CCR5 and/or CCR2 lead to a decrease in fibrosis regardless of the source of it, we can prevent the consequences of liver injury," says Sherman.

"Medications that people take for HIV treatment sometimes cause fatty liver, and other forms of liver injury," says Sherman. "Following infection with HIV, the gut bacteria leak into the circulation, a process known as bacterial translocation. One of the liver's jobs is to clean bacterial toxins before they get to the rest of the body. Unfortunately, the liver itself is sometimes injured following exposure to bacterial breakdown products, causing injury and scarring.

"We don't have agents that protect the liver from non-specific injury at this time. If CCR5 and CCR2 are central to the pathways that lead to liver scarring then perhaps that injury can be modulated through CCR5 and CCR2 blockade," says Sherman. "It is possible that someday all patients with HIV may be treated with a blocking agent as part of their HIV drug cocktail designed to protect the liver and regain and maintain liver health."

###

Other UC researchers participating in the study include: Enass Abdel-Hameed, MD, PhD, research associate in the Division of Digestive Diseases; Susan Rouster, principal research assistant in the Division of Digestive Diseases: Mohamed Tarek Shata, MD, PhD, associate professor in the Division of Digestive Diseases; Jason Blackard, PhD, associate professor in the Division of Digestive Diseases; Parham Safaie, MD, clinical instructor in the Department of Internal Medicine; and Paul Horn, PhD, professor in the Division of Pediatrics.

Shyam Kottilil, MD, PhD, professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, is also a co-author of the study along with Barbara Kroner, PhD, and Liliana Preiss, who are both researchers at RTI International in Research Triangle Park, NC.

This work was supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the National Institutes of Health under award number R01 AI065256-06-A1.

Sherman has received grants and contracts paid to the institution from AbbVie, BMS, Gilead, Innovio, Intercept, MedImmune and Merck. He has served on the advisory boards for Abbott Labs, Gilead, Shionogi, Merck and MedImmune and on data safety monitoring board for MedPace and Watermark. Sherman also received support from Tobira (now Allergan). Kottilil reports grants from Gilead Sciences, grants from Merck and funding from American Gene Technology, during the conduct of the study. The other authors have no conflicts to report.A new study from the University of Iowa finds rural hospitals that use tele-medicine to back up their emergency room health care providers not only save money, but find it easier to recruit new physicians.

Marcia Ward, study author and professor of health management and policy in the College of Public Health, says the results suggest that expanded use of tele-emergency services could play a key role in helping small, rural critical access hospitals maintain their emergency rooms.

"The study finds that expanding options for provider coverage to include tele-medicine in some rural emergency departments has noticeable benefits," says Ward, whose study was published Dec. 3 in the December issue of the journal Health Affairs. "This supports the viability of critical access hospitals at risk of closing and leaving their communities without local emergency care."

Many of the nearly 1,400 rural hospitals in the United States are struggling to provide health care services generally because of declining population and rising costs. One of those services is emergency medicine, as emergency rooms are expensive to operate and, until 2013, were required to be staffed with a physician on-site or on-call 24 hours a day. As a result, Ward says many rural hospitals are unable to staff their ERs with doctors trained in emergency medicine. Instead, they're covered by family physicians from the community who share ER coverage along with their regular clinic and hospital practice.

However, in 2013, a Medicare rule clarification allowed rural hospitals to fulfill their on-site staffing requirements using an advanced practice provider, such as a physician assistant or nurse practitioner, as long as they have remote access to a physician using a tele-medicine link. To measure the impact of that rule change, UI researchers analyzed 19 rural hospitals in the Sioux Falls, South Dakota-based Avera Health network. Seven of the hospitals took advantage of the Medicare rule clarification to back up their ER providers with tele-medicine doctors who work at the hub hospital in Sioux Falls.

The spoke hospitals were located in Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska.

Key findings from the study include:

The amount of time with on-site coverage by advanced practice providers backed up by a tele-ER increased from zero hours to an average of 17.1 hours a day within three years. Two hospitals adopted this model 24 hours a day.

Rural hospitals that switched to tele-ER back-up saved an average of $117,000 annually in health care provider costs because advanced practice providers receive less compensation than physicians. Rural hospitals in the same network that continued to staff their ER with on-site or on-call physicians saw an average increase of $138,000 in annual provider compensation costs.

Hospitals that switched to tele-ER services found it easier to recruit new physicians because they could offer a better work-life balance, as the doctor would not have to cover an ER shift. The model also gives physicians more downtime, Ward says, reducing burnout and increasing retention.

###

Ward also is director of the College of Public Health's Center for Health Policy and Research and conducted the study under the auspices of the university's Rural Telehealth Research Center.CHAMPAIGN, Ill. -- Boys who enter sixth-grade with co-occurring social skills, anxiety, learning and conduct problems are at the greatest risk of developing aggressive behavior and using tobacco, alcohol and marijuana by the end of eighth grade, a new study found.

"While substance use among all boys in the study population increased over time, it increased the fastest among boys who had the greatest social skills needs," said University of Illinois social work professor Kevin Tan, the principal investigator of the study.

Rather than any single factor, a combination of characteristics may predict youths' risk of succumbing to or avoiding problem behaviors, Tan said.

Tan and his co-authors found four distinct patterns of co-occurring social-emotional learning and behavioral problems among the more than 2,600 middle-school boys in their study. The boys were students at 37 schools located in Chicago; Durham, North Carolina; Athens, Georgia; and Richmond, Virginia.

At four time points, beginning in the fall term of sixth grade and ending in the spring term of eighth grade, the students were surveyed on their verbal, relational and physical aggression and their use of cigarettes, alcohol and marijuana during the prior 30 days.

At each time point, a teacher also assessed each boy's social skills development, symptoms of anxiety and learning problems. Teachers also reported on their students' conduct, such as how frequently they skipped classes and stole from other students.

Boys who had significant problems in all four domains - social skills, anxiety, learning and conduct - were the most susceptible to engaging in aggression and substance use, the researchers found.

Although this group composed only 6.3 percent of the study population, prior research has shown that youths with these characteristics are at the greatest risk of the poorest outcomes across their lifespans, according to Tan and his co-authors.

Conversely, the researchers found that boys who scored well on social, emotional, learning and conduct - a group that composed more than 61 percent of the sample - showed only small increases in physical aggression and substance use.

The third risk pattern involved boys who had poor social skills in addition to learning and conduct problems. While these boys entered sixth grade exhibiting the most behavioral problems, their physical and relational aggression and cigarette smoking declined over time and their alcohol and marijuana use didn't vary.

The researchers also identified a fourth distinct risk pattern previously unexamined in research pertaining to a group of boys who may be underserved by practitioners. Boys in this group, which composed about 15 percent of the sample population, had positive social skills but moderate problems with learning, anxiety and conduct.

"Although these boys may be socially skilled, their other problems can lead to increased aggression and substance use as they progress through middle school," Tan said.

These youths' social skills may account for their heightened verbal aggression, the researchers hypothesized, because "these boys are more attuned to how to utilize indirect forms of aggression as a means of harming others and, over time, become more accustomed to dealing with interpersonal matters through non-physical means."

Alcohol and marijuana use increased among boys in this group, but at lower rates than their peers in the high-risk group. Tan and his co-authors suggested that these social boys may be more susceptible to negative peer influences that lead to experimentation with alcohol and drugs.

"Understanding these configurations of social-emotional, learning and conduct problems can help us understand how they elevate or decrease students' risks for different outcomes," Tan said. "There are opportunities here for schools to provide early prevention and interventions to address any problems before they become severe."

###

The data used in the study were drawn from the Multisite Violence Prevention Project, a middle-school violence prevention study funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The study, published in the Journal of Early Adolescence, was co-authored by Deborah Gorman-Smith and Yoonsun Choi, both professors of social service administration at the University of Chicago; and Michael Schoeny, a clinical psychologist at Rush University.The International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species is a powerful tool for researchers and policymakers working to stem the tide of species loss across the globe. But adding even a single species to the list is no small task, demanding countless hours of expensive, rigorous and highly specialized research.

As a result of these limitations, a large number of known species have not yet been formally assessed by the IUCN and ranked in one of five categories, from least concern to critically endangered. This deficit is quite apparent in plants: Only about 5 percent of all currently known plant species appear on IUCN's Red List in any capacity.

A new method co-developed by Anahi Espindola, an assistant professor of entomology at the University of Maryland, uses the power of machine learning and open-access data to predict species that could be eligible for at-risk status on the IUCN Red List. The research team created and trained a machine learning algorithm to assess more than 150,000 species of plants from all corners of the world, making their project among the largest assessments of conservation risk to date. According to the results, more than 10 percent of these species are highly likely to qualify for an at-risk IUCN classification.

The algorithm is a predictive model that can be applied to any grouping of species at any scale, from the entire globe to a single city park. Espindola and her colleagues published their findings online in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on December 3, 2018.

"Our method isn't meant to replace formal assessments using IUCN protocols. It's a tool that can help prioritize the process, by calculating the probability that a given species is at risk," Espindola said. "Ultimately, we hope it will help governments and resource managers decide where to devote their limited resources for conservation. This could be especially useful in regions that are understudied."

Espindola and her collaborators built their predictive model using open-access data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and the TRY Plant Trait Database. Lead author Tara Pelletier, an assistant professor of biology at Radford University, worked together with Espindola to perform the machine learning analysis.

Espindola and Pelletier then trained the model using GBIF and TRY data from the relatively small group of plant species already on the IUCN Red List. This allowed the researchers to assess and fine-tune the model's accuracy by checking its predictions against the listed species' known IUCN risk status. The Red List sorts non-extinct species into one of five classification categories: least concern, near-threatened, vulnerable, endangered and critically endangered.

The researchers then applied the model to the many thousands of plant species that remain unlisted by IUCN. According to the results, more than 15,000 of the species--roughly 10 percent of the total assessed by the team--have a high probability of qualifying as near-threatened, at a minimum.

Espindola and her colleagues mapped the data and noted several major geographical trends in the model's predictions. At-risk species tended to cluster in areas already known for their high native biodiversity, such as the Central American rainforests and southwestern Australia. The model also flagged regions such as California and the southeastern United States, which are home to a large number of endemic species, meaning that these species do not naturally occur anywhere else on Earth.

"When I first started thinking about this project, I suspected that many regions with high diversity would be well-studied and protected. But we found the opposite to be true," Espindola said. "Many of the high-diversity areas corresponded to regions with the highest probability of risk. When we saw the maps, we were surprised it was that clear. Endemic species also tend to be more at risk because they are usually confined to smaller areas."

The model also flagged a few surprising areas not typically known for their biodiversity, such as the southern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, as having a high number of at-risk species. Some of the most imperiled regions have not received enough attention from researchers, according to Espindola. She hopes that her method can help to fill in some of these knowledge gaps by identifying regions and species in need of further study.

"Let's say you wanted to assess every species of wild bee on one continent. So you do the assessment and find that only one species is at risk. Now you've used all those resources to identify an area with low risk, which is still helpful, but not ideal when resources are limited. We want to help prevent that from happening," Espindola said. "Our analysis was global, but the model can be adapted for use at any geographic scale. Everything we've done is 100 percent open access, highlighting the power of publicly-available data. We hope people will use our model--and we hope they point out errors and help us fix them, to make it better."

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The research paper, "Predicting plant conservation priorities on a global scale," Tara Pelletier, Bryan Carstens, David Tank, Jack Sullivan and Anahi Espindola, was published online in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on December 3, 2018.

This work was supported by the National Science Foundation (Award Nos. DEB-1457519, DEB-1457726 and EPS-809935), the National Institutes of Health (Award Nos. NCRR 1P20RR016454-01 and NCRR 1P20RR016448-01), DIVERSITAS/Future Earth and the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig. The content of this article does not necessarily reflect the views of these organizations.

Media Relations Contact: Matthew Wright, 301-405-9267, mewright@umd.edu

University of Maryland

College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences

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About the College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences

The College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences at the University of Maryland educates more than 9,000 future scientific leaders in its undergraduate and graduate programs each year. The college's 10 departments and more than a dozen interdisciplinary research centers foster scientific discovery with annual sponsored research funding exceeding $175 million.University of Nebraska-Lincoln researchers have found revolutionary evidence that an evolutionary phenomenon at work in complex organisms is at play in their single-celled, extreme-loving counterparts, too.

Species most often evolve through mutations in DNA that get inherited by successive generations. A few decades ago, researchers began discovering that multicellular species can also evolve through epigenetics: traits originating not from genetic changes but from the inheritance of cellular proteins that control access to an organism's DNA.

Because those proteins can respond to shifts in an organism's environment, epigenetics resides on the ever-thin border between nature and nurture. Evidence for it had emerged only in eukaryotes, the multicellular domain of life that comprises animals, plants and several other kingdoms.

But a series of experiments from Nebraska's Sophie Payne, Paul Blum and colleagues has shown that epigenetics can pass along extreme acid resistance in a species of archaea: microscopic, single-celled organisms that share features with both eukaryotes and bacteria.

"The surprise is that it's in these relatively primitive organisms, which we know to be ancient," said Blum, Charles Bessey Professor of biological sciences at Nebraska. "We've been thinking about this as something (evolutionarily) new. But epigenetics is not a newcomer to the planet."

The team discovered the phenomenon in Sulfolobus solfataricus, a sulfur-eating species that thrives in the boiling, vinegar-acidic springs of Yellowstone National Park. By exposing the species to increasing levels of acidity over several years, the researchers evolved three strains that exhibited a resistance 178 times greater than that of their Yellowstone ancestors.

One of those strains evolved the resistance despite no mutations in its DNA, while the other two underwent mutations in mutually exclusive genes that do not contribute to acid resistance. And when the team disrupted the proteins thought to control the expression of resistance-relevant genes - leaving the DNA itself untouched - that resistance abruptly disappeared in subsequent generations.

"We predicted that they'd be mutated, and we'd follow the mutations, and that would teach us what caused the extreme acid resistance," Blum said. "But that's not what we found."

Though epigenetics is essential to some of the most productive and destructive physiological processes in humans - the differentiation of cells into roughly 200 types, the occurrence of cancers - it remains difficult to study in eukaryotes.

The simplicity of archaea, combined with the fact that their cells resemble eukaryotes' in some important ways, should allow researchers to investigate epigenetic questions much faster and more cheaply than was possible before, Blum said.

"We don't know what flips the switch in humans that changes epigenetic traits," Blum said. "And we sure don't know how to reverse it very often. That's the first thing we'll go after: how to turn it on, how to turn it off, how to get it to switch. And that has benefits when you think about (managing) traits in us or traits in plants."

Yet the discovery also raises questions, Payne said, especially about how both eukaryotes and archaea came to adopt epigenetics as a method of inheritance.

"Maybe both of them had it because they diverged from a common ancestor that had it," said Payne, a doctoral student in biological sciences. "Or maybe it evolved twice. It's a really interesting concept from an evolutionary perspective."

Blum said the team is likewise curious about whether and how epigenetics might explain why no known archaea cause disease or wage antibiotic-armed warfare against their brethren, as bacteria do.

"There are no antibiotics going on in that world," he said. "Why is that? We're thinking (that) it's got something to do with epigenetics, and so their interactions among each other are fundamentally different than bacteria."

The discovery also introduces an even broader question, Blum said.

"What was the benefit for them to have this? We don't know."

###

The team reported its findings in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Payne and Blum authored the study with Samuel McCarthy, doctoral student in biological sciences; doctoral alumnus Tyler Johnson; and alumna Erica North.Findings from the fundamental research suggest strong working memory is vital to working with abstract information

EUGENE, Ore. - Dec. 3, 2018 -To perform a song, a dance or write computer code, people need to call upon the basic elements of their craft and then order and recombine them in creative ways.

University of Oregon scientists have captured how the brain builds such complex sequences from a small set of basic elements.

Doctoral student Atsushi Kikumoto and Ulrich Mayr, a professor in the Department of Psychology, detailed their National Science Foundation-supported work in a paper published online Nov. 14 in the journal eLife.

In the study, electrical activity and oscillation patterns were measured by electroencephalogram, with electrodes on the scalp from 88 study participants, all university students, while they performed complex, sequential patterns.

"Basic elements - the alphabet of any type of performance -- need to be combined in a certain order within larger chunks, and these chunks, in turn, need to be combined in a certain order to arrive at the complete sequence," said Mayr, who directs the UO's Cognitive Dynamics Lab. "This is at the heart of a lot of human creativity.

"For example, if you are playing a piece on the piano, your brain needs to keep track in which larger musical phrase, which bar, and which exact note you are currently at," he said. "So, you need a kind of mental addressing system. It is this addressing system that we discovered with our EEG methods."

Subjects memorized sequential patterns that consisted of three different angles of lines as basic elements. When participants subsequently tried to reconstruct the succession of lines, the EEG showed oscillatory patterns that Kikumoto and Mayr decoded using machine learning techniques.

It turns out that the EEG patterns kept track of the precise location within the sequence - which chunk, which position within the chunk, and which line angle people were focusing on.

The findings from the basic research help to understand why some people have difficulties with executing complex sequential plans, Mayr said.

Within the hierarchically organized addressing system, not everyone showed a robust EEG expression of the more abstract levels, he said. Only people with strong working memory scores - a reflection of the capacity of an individual's mental workspace - seemed to have a crisp record of the current chunk.

"Without the chunk information they literally got lost within the mental landscape of the overall sequence," he said.

EEG allowed the researchers to capture electrical signaling in the brain in real time. Mayr and Kikumoto are now working to complement the findings with magnetic resonance imaging to document exactly where in the brain the sequential addressing system is localized.

###

Source: Ulrich Mayr, professor and head, Department of Psychology, 541-346-4959, mayr@uoregon.edu

Note: The UO is equipped with an on-campus television studio with a point-of-origin Vyvx connection, which provides broadcast-quality video to networks worldwide via fiber optic network. There also is video access to satellite uplink and audio access to an ISDN codec for broadcast-quality radio interviews.

Links:

About Ulrich Mayr: https://psychology.uoregon.edu/profile/mayr/

Department of Psychology: https://psychology.uoregon.edu

Cognitive Dynamics Lab: https://pages.uoregon.edu/thinking/index.htmlPHILADELPHIA (December 3, 2018) -Research shows that losing weight can help prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. While best practice for weight loss often includes decreasing or eliminating calories from alcohol, few studies examine whether people who undergo weight loss treatment report changes in alcohol intake and whether alcohol influences their weight loss.

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing (Penn Nursing) suggests that alcohol consumption may attenuate long-term weight loss in adults with Type 2 diabetes.

In the study, close to 5,000 people who were overweight and had diabetes were followed for four years. One group participated in Intensive Lifestyle Intervention (ILI) and the other in a control group consisting of diabetes support and education. Data showed that participants in the ILI group who abstained from alcohol consumption over the four-year period lost more weight than those who drank any amount during the intervention. Results from the study also showed that heavy drinkers in the ILI group were less likely to have clinically significant weight loss over the four years.

"This study indicates that while alcohol consumption is not associated with short?term weight loss during a lifestyle intervention, it is associated with worse long?term weight loss in participants with overweight or obesity and Type 2 diabetes," says lead investigator Ariana M. Chao, PhD, CRNP, Assistant Professor of Nursing in the Department of Biobehavioral Health Sciences. "Patients with Type 2 diabetes who are trying to lose weight should be encouraged to limit alcohol consumption."

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The study "Alcohol Intake and Weight Loss During Intensive Lifestyle Intervention for Adults with Overweight or Obesity and Diabetes," has been published in the journal Obesity. Co-authors of the article include Thomas A. Wadden, PhD, Jena Shaw Tronieri, PhD, and Robert I. Berkowitz, MD, all of the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine.

This study was supported by: the National Institute of Nursing Research of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) under award number K23NR017209. This study is supported by the Department of Health and Human Services through the following cooperative agreements from the NIH: DK57136, DK57149, DK56990, DK57177, DK57171, DK57151, DK57182, DK57131, DK57002, DK57078, DK57154, DK57178, DK57219, DK57008, DK57135, and DK56992. The following federal agencies have contributed support: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; National Institute of Nursing Research; National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities; Office of Research on Women's Health; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and Department of Veterans Affairs. This research was supported in part by the Intramural Research Program of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. The Indian Health Service (IHS) provided personnel, medical oversight, and use of facilities. Additional support was received from Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions Bayview General Clinical Research Center (M01RR02719); Massachusetts General Hospital Mallinckrodt General Clinical Research Center and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology General Clinical Research Center (M01RR01066); University of Colorado Health Sciences Center General Clinical Research Center (M01RR00051) and Clinical Nutrition Research Unit (P30 DK48520); University of Tennessee at Memphis General Clinical Research Center (M01RR0021140); University of Pittsburgh General Clinical Research Center (M01RR000056), the Clinical Translational Research Center (CTRC) funded by the Clinical & Translational Science Award (UL1 RR 024153) and NIH grant (DK 046204); and Frederic C. Bartter General Clinical Research Center (M01RR01346).

About the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing is one of the world's leading schools of nursing. For the second year in a row, it is ranked the #1 nursing school in the world by QS University, and has four graduate programs ranked number one by U.S. News & World Report, the most of any school in the United States. Penn Nursing is currently ranked # 1 in funding from the National Institutes of Health, among other schools of nursing. Penn Nursing prepares nurse scientists and nurse leaders to meet the health needs of a global society through research, education, and practice. Follow Penn Nursing on: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube.Qatar has announced its intention to leave the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in January.

"Qarar has decided to withdraw from Opec starting from January 1, 2019, and will brief the organization on this decision on Monday," said Saad Sherida Kaabi, the country's energy minister.

Qatar will continue to fulfill its international commitments after its withdrawal from Opec, the minister added.

Qatars oil production is only around 600,000 bpd, while it is the worlds biggest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Qatar had previously announced the launch of four new LNG production lines by 2024, which will allow it to increase production from 77 to 110 million tonnes per year.

Opec is expected to implement new supply cuts after its upcoming meeting in December. Group officials observed the international oil prices have slumped some 20 percent this month alone, meaning additional policy steps could be necessary to prevent another massive oil bust.

Meanwhile, oil prices soared by around 5 percent on Monday after the US and China agreed to a 90-day truce in their trade war, and ahead of a meeting this week of Opec that is expected to result in a supply cut.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $53.41 per barrel at 0622 GMT, up $2.48 per barrel, or 4.9 percent from their last close. International Brent crude oil futures were up $2.89 per barrel, or 4.9 percent, at $62.35 a barrel.Leading scientists call for action to increase global soil carbon, in advance of the annual climate summit of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Katowice, Poland (COP24) and World Soil Day (5 Dec).

The amount of carbon in soil is over twice the amount of carbon found in trees and other biomass.

But one-third of the world's soils are already degraded, limiting agricultural production and adding almost 500 gigatons of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, an amount equivalent to the carbon sequestered by 216 billion hectares of U.S. forest.

Modalities for climate action in agriculture will be addressed 3 December at the first workshop of the Koronivia Joint Work on Agriculture, a breakthrough initiative of the 2017 UNFCCC climate negotiations.

In a commentary piece, Put More Carbon in Soils to Meet Paris Climate Pledges, published today by the journal Nature, climate change and agricultural scientists who serve on the science and technical committee of the organization 4 per 1000 describe a path for recuperating soil carbon stocks to mitigate climate change and boost soil fertility. The scientists suggest that the KJWA formally commit to increasing global soil organic carbon stocks through coordination and activities related to eight steps.

The eight steps are:

1. Stop carbon loss - Protect peatlands through enforcement of regulations against burning and drainage.

2. Promote carbon uptake - Identify and promote best practices for storing carbon in ways suitable to local conditions, including through incorporating crop residues, cover crops, agroforestry, contour farming, terracing, nitrogen-fixing plants, and irrigation.

3. Monitor, report and verify impacts - Track and evaluate interventions with science-based harmonized protocols and standards.

4. Deploy technology - Use high-tech opportunities for faster, cheaper and more accurate monitoring of soil carbon changes.

5. Test strategies - Determine what works in local conditions by using models and a network of field sites.

6. Involve communities - Employ citizen science to collect data and create an open online platform for sharing.

7. Coordinate policies - Integrate soil carbon with national climate commitments to the Paris Agreement and other policies on soil and climate.

8. Provide support - Ensure technical assistance, incentives to farmers, monitoring systems, and carbon taxes to promote widespread implementation.

A joint forum for coordinated action and funding to close research gaps is needed, the scientists argue. The eight steps also inform the KJWA's next workshop (June 2019), which will address soil carbon.

"Taking steps to increase global soil carbon requires multi-stakeholder collaboration at the science-policy interface. 4p1000 initiative, which has 281 partners from 39 countries, is showing how such collaboration can be used to address sustainable development goals in an integrated way," said Cornelia Rumpel, lead author of the commentary and Research Director of the National Research Center at France's Institute of Ecology and Environmental Sciences.

Co-author Farshad Amiraslani, Remote Sensing Specialist and Deputy Dean of Academic Affairs, Faculty of Geography, University of Tehran, is concerned with how lack of coordination among stakeholders and no comprehensive database is hindering the impact of land restoration efforts. We need to apply satellite imagery to capture changes occurring at large scales more frequently and cost-effectively, he said.

"We are amassing a rich body of knowledge on how to increase soil carbon stocks," said Claire Chenu, a Professor of Soil Sciences at AgroParisTech. "But further research is needed. For example, we know root systems make an important contribution to soil carbon stocks, but we are still researching how specific crops with deep roots, vs. cover crops, vs. agroforestry systems differentially contribute to increasing soil carbon. We need more data on the effects of agricultural practices in different ecosystems."

"Challenges to achieving large-scale carbon sequestration include nutrient limits, inadequate farmer incentives and lack of organic matter in some places, but even impacts at lesser scales will benefit the climate and food security," said co-author Lini Wollenberg, Low Emissions Development Leader for the CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS) and Research Professor at the University of Vermont's Gund Institute for Environment.

"The potential benefits are too large to ignore," Wollenberg said.

###

BACKGROUND

4P1000 Science and Technical Committee members and affiliations

Co-authors in Comment article:

Cornelia Rumpel, National Research Center (CNRS), Institute of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, France

Farshad Amiraslani, University of Tehran, Iran

Lydie-Stella Koutika, Research Center on Productivity and Sustainability of Industrial Plantations (CRDPI), Republic of Congo

Pete Smith, University of Aberdeen, Scotland

David Whitehead, Manaaki Whenua -- Landcare Research, New Zealand

Eva "Lini" Wollenberg, CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS), University of Vermont, USA

Co-signatories:

Claire Chenu, AgroParisTech, UMR Ecosys INRA, AgroParisTech, Universite Paris- Saclay, Thiverval-Grignon, France.

Magali Garcia Cardenas, Faculty of Engineering, Universidad Mayor de San Andres, Bolivia.

Martin Kaonga, Cambridge Centre for Environment, Cambridge, UK.

Jagdish Ladha, Department of Plant Sciences, University of California, Davis, USA.

Beata Madari, Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, National Rice and Beans Research Center (Embrapa Arroz e Feijao), Santo Antonio de Goias, Brazil.

Yasuhito Shirato, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, Japan.

Brahim Soudi, Institut Agronomique et Veterinaire Hassan II, Rabat, Morocco.

Jean-Francois Soussana, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), Paris, France.SPOKANE, Wash. - Families of rural children with mild head injuries pay more for medical care and get less of it, a Washington State University analysis has found.

Janessa M. Graves, an assistant professor of nursing at WSU Spokane, analyzed data on more than 380,000 children with mild traumatic brain injuries, which usually involve concussions. They account for almost all types of traumatic brain injury, moderate and severe being the other two. On the whole, traumatic brain injury is a leading cause of death and disability among children and adolescents in the United States.

Patients with mild traumatic brain injury are hospitalized less frequently and often get treated entirely as outpatients. About one-third have ongoing symptoms like cognitive fatigue, inattention and difficulty remembering things for weeks and months after their injury.

Yet Graves found the rural patients got less care. Meanwhile, their healthcare costs were significantly higher than those of urban youth in the six months after being injured.

Their costs were an average of 11 percent higher, and they were less likely to use specialty services. They were half as likely to get speech therapy and 40 percent less likely to get psychiatric care.

"There's such an economic burden on rural people for healthcare," Graves said. "To get appropriate healthcare is a real challenge, not to mention the fact that rural kids may be more likely to get traumatic brain injury than urban kids, and they often have more severe injuries."

The study, published in the journal Health Services Research, underscores a darker side of rural life. Rural residents almost invariably spend more time getting from one place to another, often on dangerous two-lane highways that lead to higher rates of bad crashes.

In one sense, the children included in Graves' study were among the more fortunate: They had commercial health insurance through private, employer-sponsored health plans. This is also how Graves and her colleagues could analyze their use of healthcare, tapping into a commercial database of 20 million subscribers.

Among the study's key findings:

Urban children were more likely to have at least one speech therapy visit and at least one psychiatry or psychology visit. Urban children also had more psychiatry or psychology visits.

Rural children with mild traumatic brain injury were more likely to have multiple traumatic injuries.

Rural children were 15 percent more likely to have at least one physical or occupational therapy visit, possibly because they are more likely to have more severe injuries than urban children. Those with more visits had 51 percent greater costs.

Health care costs for rural children averaged $2,871, almost $400 more than the average $2,479 for urban children.

"That's a disservice to communities that are already not well off," Graves said.

The findings underscore the need for more healthcare services in rural areas, Graves said. For example, she said, there are children going all the way to Seattle from Idaho because Spokane specialists are overwhelmed as they try to serve such a large area.

"The more difficult we make it to access care," she said, "the less likely that people are going to get the care that they need."

###

Graves led the study with colleagues at the Swinburne University of Technology, the University of South Carolina, the University of Washington and the Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center.

The work was funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the Health Equity Research Center at Washington State University, and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences.Martin Luther by

I

This Is My Statement

Are guilty of possessing "unearned privilege and power"

Are inherently, by their very existence, oppressing "people of colour"

Are born "racist" and are the only racial group capable of being "racist"

Must submit to "people of colour" by "giving up their power"

That white people "giving up power" involves reducing the proportion of white people in business organizations and government (mandatory enforced "diversity") [Note: This is ethnic cleansing.]

That white people must accept becoming a minority demographic (and thus lose their right to self-determination) in their own countries as penance for "colonialism"

The White-phobic Response To The Flyers

U of M president David Barnard says this little poster is part of an international "neo-Nazi" take over of the Western World

Letter I Sent To Student Writer Malak Abas For The Manitoban, The Official University Of Manitoba Students' Newspaper

Dear Mr. Abas,



I read your article where you dismissed the email statement I sent you as not being provably sent by the one who put up the flyers. If you wanted evidence that I was the one who put up the flyers, why didn't you reply to my email and ask me for some?



I think the reality is that my statement flat out contradicts the entire narrative you (as evidenced by the article above), the university, and the media have attempted to deceptively weave surrounding the flyer campaign, therefore you would rather dismiss it than expose the minds of the students to any information that could potentially contradict the indoctrination they are receiving from their professors and media outlets such as yourself.



I will have you know that the CBC, after receiving my written statement, has offered to interview me on camera. I have informed them that I will do so if they agree to publish my statement unedited and in whole. Frankly, I doubt they will agree to the arrangement, regardless of how desperately they wish to unmask me. The reason is because my words would be more damaging to their narrative than it would benefit them to publicly crucify a white individual for saying "It's Okay To Be White".



Yours sincerely,



Martin Luther

Apoplectic Media Reaction

am the student who put up the 'It's Okay To Be White' flyers at the University of Manitoba.The flyers were intended to convey one thing and one thing only: IT'S OKAY TO BE WHITE.They were posted in protest of racially discriminatory ideology that is taught at the University of Manitoba that targets white individuals.The absurd over-reaction , including by Harjit Sajjan, the Minister of National Defence , to a statement indicating it is "Okay" (i.e. acceptable) to be genetically European (white) is proof that many people do in fact believe it is not acceptable for an individual to be white. Simply stating that it is acceptable for an individual to have certain DNA has sparked outrage, accusations of "racism", "white supremacy", and "hatred", and has even been condemned as "offensive" and a "scare tactic".The individuals leveling these extremist accusations of hidden meaning and intent have only been able to support their vitriolic claims by attempting to tangentially associate the benign message on the flyers with random ideologies such as "Neo-Nazism" or vaguely defined groups of individuals such as the "Alt-Right", neither of which I have any affiliation with in any capacity whatsoever.I have been a student at the University of Manitoba for several years now, and the horrifying reality is that many professors explicitly teach in their courses that it is in fact NOT okay to be white. Professors at the University of Manitoba teach that white people:Professors at the University of Manitoba also teach:Ironically, people who adhere to the above ideology have asked the president of the University of Manitoba, David Barnard himself, to "give up his power" (because he is white) by stepping down so he can be replaced by an "Indigenous leader" so as to "combat inequality and racism".To top it all off, these same professors teach that white Canadians are guilty of these sins and must therefore repent by "giving up their power" have simultaneously claimed that white people do not in fact exist, that "whiteness is a social construct". So when it's time for "justice" (i.e. punishment) in the form of whites "giving up their power", they have no problem identifying who is white based on their genetic heritage (just ask the university admissions office if they have any difficulty determining who is white and who is a "person of colour" for admissions purposes), but when white people object to this plan for systematic disenfranchisement of their entire race in the name of "social justice", suddenly "whiteness is just a social construct" and therefore white people are not entitled to having a voice.What happens if a white individual decides they want to have a voice anyways, and speaks out in any manner whatsoever, including just to say something as innocuous as "It's Okay To Be White"? That's when these professors and the students they have indoctrinated resort to using racial slurs to dehumanize and silence white individuals. Terms like "racist", "white supremacist", and "nazi" are nothing more than racial slurs directed explicitly at white people.The official statement released by UMSU admitted that the phrase "It's Okay To Be White" is not "explicitly racist" (so it's just implicitly racist, then?), but claims it is intended to "promote a message that is dangerous and triggering". UMSU president Jakob Sanderson claims that "It's Okay To Be White" is "really dog whistling at white supremacy" and that the real message is "universities are going too far to help marginalized students, that were over-policing thought, that were over-policing expression." Ironically, he then explained that he was working with campus police to review security camera footage of the posters being put up, and that security services went around campus removing the flyers; i.e. they literally called campus police to remove the expression "It's Okay To Be White" and made efforts to hunt me down (presumably to exact punishment of some nature).UMSU also made the astonishing claim that the flyers were "targeted" at aboriginal students, implying that a hate crime had therefore been committed. They claim a flyer was faxed "directly to the University of Manitoba Native Studies Department Office". Assuming that fax is even real, I did not send it or any other faxes. Flyers were put up across the entire university and no group or individual was specifically targeted. It's plainly obvious that an attempt is being made to misconstrue the "It's Okay To Be White" flyers as a hate crime so as to set a legal precedent for pursuing criminal conviction of individuals who speak the words "It's Okay To Be White".[Note: UMSU has retracted their statement about the flyer being faxed to the Native Studies Department : It turns out someone actually faxed it to the Gender Studies Department, which completely destroys their "targeted harassment of aboriginals" narrative (though unfortunately the CBC already spread the false story).] U of M president David Barnard claims I am part of an "international effort by neo-Nazi and white supremacist groups" , which is patently false. I am a member of no group or organization, and do not adhere to either the ideology of "neo-Nazism" or of "white supremacy". The phrase "It's Okay To Be White" does not in any manner imply relation to either of those ideologies, and these accusations are only being made in an effort to intimidate white individuals on campus so as to prevent them from raising their voices. They want white students to be afraid to even speak the phrase "It's Okay To Be White", for them to be afraid of challenging the orthodoxy of the ideological narrative being woven into their minds by the politically correct priests of the ivory towers.So the question is: Is it okay to be white at the University of Manitoba?The answer: Not according to many of the professors and many of their students, and especially not if you have the nerve to assert that it is in fact okay to be white. If you do so, the president of the university will call your speech "racist", accuse you of being a member of an international "neo-Nazi" syndicate of some kind, and order a police manhunt to track you down.If it was okay to be white at the University of Manitoba, I wouldn't have had to wear the mask.Related posts:Financial Markets and the Global Economy Breathe a Sigh of Relief as G20 Summit Yields Temporary Trade-War Ceasefire

Over the weekend, the G20 summit yielded a decisive breakthrough in the ongoing US-China trade war, with POTUS Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreeing to postpone proposed tariff hikes for 90 days. Risk is now on as US Dollar sell-offs see the USD slump against a basket of currencies.

In line with institutional forecasts, the Buenos Aires G20 summit saw an abatement trade war tensions as Donald Trump deviated from his hard-line stance, agreeing to delay planned tariff increases on $200B Chinese goods at the start of 2019. The move comes in response to Xi Jinpings agreement to purchase a very substantial amount of US agriculture, energy and industry goods.

Commenting following the discussion, Trump said, This was an amazing and productive meeting with unlimited possibilities for both the United States and China. Chinas foreign minister echoed the sentiment, saying, the discussions on economic and trade issues were very positive and constructive adding that the two sides agreed to mutually open up their markets and as China advances a new round of reforms, the United States legitimate concerns can be progressively resolved

Exact details regarding what was agreed during the two hour discussion are sparse with more details expected in the days to come but the market impact has been substantial with Asian and European markets rallying on the news.

Ahead of the meeting, German Chancellor, Angela Merkel commented, All of us see that we are affected indirectly when Chinese-American economic relations are not as frictionless as a world order requires, a statement which has seen immediate market reflection, with German auto manufacturers gaining 5 to 6% on market open.

In todays brief, Danske Bank see the potential for further cessation of trade tensions, with the current move paving the way for the real deal in 2019 which they propose could see the repealing of all tariffs on Chinese goods.

A post-meeting statement issued by the Whitehouse indicated negotiations would begin immediately between the two nations with a view to structural changes regarding forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusion and cyber theft, services and agriculture.

While the news is welcomed by global markets, the mid-term outlook still remains unclear. A failure to reach an agreement within the 90 day time period could see the US revert to their planned tariff hikes and a worsening of the trade war. Commenting on the current agreement, senior investment manager for BNP Paribas, Karan Talwar, said While longer term implications remain uncertain  for example the threat of further US tariffs on China remain if the 90 day negotiation period is unsuccessful  the market had been pricing in excessive pessimism in recent periods.

The foreign exchange market effect has been pronounced in response to the agreement. In this mornings session, the US Dollar exchange rate is declining against all other majors as investors factor in the latest developments.Pound Sterling Exchange Rates Fall on Lacklustre PMI Release

UK Manufacturing PMI hits 2 month High (53.1)

Output and new orders trends strengthen

New exports orders fall for a second consecutive month

Markit Economics latest UK PMI figures show above forecast growth, with the purchasing managers index rising from 51.1 to 53.1 this morning. Despite the figures indicating industry expansion its worth noting that last months 51.1 release represented a 27-month low for UK manufacturing.

Above: UK Manufacturing PMI Picks Up But Remains Muted. Source

Commenting on the latest data, Director of IHS Markit, Rob Dobson, said The November PMI provided a lacklustre picture of the UK manufacturing sector, as ongoing global trade tensions and Brexit uncertainty weighed on current business conditions and dampened the outlook for the year ahead.

Octobers decline in new orders reversed as output strengthened slightly in November with the domestic market remaining the primary contributor towards new contracts.

New export business levels dropped for a second consecutive month. Businesses attributed the fall in demand to reduced client interest and ongoing concerns over the state and implications of Brexit. The consumer goods sector did, however, see an increase in new export business.

Business sentiment looking ahead indicates 46% of purchasing managers are forecasting an uptick in output in the next 12 months and less than 10% expect contraction. However, the overall degree of optimism dipped to a 27-month low, as Brexit uncertainty, exchange rate concerns and a slowing economy weighed on confidence.

A mild rebound of employment in manufacturing saw staffing levels rise for both the intermediate and investment goods sectors whilst consumer goods producers saw an overall decline in staffing. The rise contributes to the outlook of increased activity with businesses preparing for an expected increase in activity in response to forecasts of increased future demand.

Commenting further, Mr Dodson added, "Although November saw the headline PMI regain some lost ground and trends in output, new orders and employment picked up slightly from a weak October, growth is still among the weakest seen over the past two-and-a-half years..

While the initial market response to the data seemed limited, the last few minutes have seen the Pound Sterling (GBP) give up ground in exchange rates after a morning of steady gains, dropping against a basket of other currencies.

The Pound US Dollar (GBP/USD) exchange rate has seen perhaps the most pronounced fall, tumbling from 1.278 through short-term support at 1.27730 to the current level of 1.27588.

Above: GBP/USD Exchange Rate Falls In Response to UK PMIFCA Prepared to Intervene to Stop Clients Being Transferred Abroad Ahead of Brexit

In a letter to international banks, the UKs financial regulator the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) last week issued a warning to cap the number of clients banks transfer overseas as part of their Brexit preparations.

As speculation on the future of Brexit peaks ahead of MPs voting on the withdrawal bill on 11th December, the warning urges banks to concentrate their preparatory efforts on day one readiness.

With regards to where client accounts are based, the letter advises banks to make the minimum necessary changes adding Clients should not be moved out of the UK until the FCA is satisfied that the relevant UK boards and/or senior managers have fully considered the impact of their firms proposals on every category of client, including whether their proposed changes are in each clients best interests.

Further to this, the FCA made clear its intention to intervene to stop clients being transferred abroad where they judge the move could expose clients or markets to unacceptable execution risks.

The letter and warning therein come as big banks ramp up their preparations for a diverse range of Brexit scenarios, setting up European hubs out with the UKs economic capital and increasing expenditure on preparations ahead of the projected March 2019 exit.Privacy Settings

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NOTE: These settings will only apply to the browser and device you are currently using.The discovery of tight oil reserves in Bahrain will present a new set of opportunities to the kingdom, said Bahrain's Oil Minister Shaikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa.

"What is happening in the US in the aftermath of the shale revolution will also happen here," the minister said inaugurating the Bottom of the Barrel Technology Conference (BBTC) series which opened today (December 3) in Bahrain.

Top executives from national oil and gas companies and a number of affiliates of Gulf oil companies and engineers from across the globe are taking part in the two-day event being organised by Euro Petroleum Consultants and Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco) in co-operation with the National Oil and Gas Authority.

The shale oil revolution the US has made available in abundance lighter oil, which it itself presents a fresh set of challenges to the industry, he said.

Those challenges will come to the region as major oil companies including Saudi Aramco and Adnoc have started moving in the direction of tapping renewables.

Referring to the Bapco Modernisation Programme (BMP) the minister said it is an important milesone for Bahrain and its bid to boost the downstream refining business.

The BMP, which is into its ninth month of EPC, is proud to be associated with the best technology providers and equipment manufacturers, he said.

The BMP will include a residue hydrocracking unit, hydrocracker unit, hydro desulphurisation unit, crude distillation unit, vacuum distillation unit, saturated gas plant, hydrogen production unit, hydrogen recovery unit, sulphur recovery unit, tail gas treatment unit, sour water stripper unit, amine recovery unit, bulk acid gas removal unit, sulphur solidification unit and sulphur handling facilities.

The norm is to put a delayed coker, which is perhaps the best way to go, noted Shaikh Mohammed.

Bapco has also chosen the ebullating bed residue hydrocracking process, which provides high conversion of residues selectively to liquid products and high removal of metals, sulphur and CCR from difficult feedstocks, he said.

The BBTC Series, being held under the theme "The best solutions to raise the level of petroleum waste," has the backing of international oil companies in the GCC region.

Following the launch, Shaikh Mohammed toured the expo and met a large number of officials from different companies across the globe.



Shaikh Mohammed highlighted the importance of treating the resid fuel oil, especially in light of the challenges being faced by the oil refineries and the treatment of heavy materials in the overall utilisation of remaining oil from the distillation products.



"It is encouraging to see that the theme of the conference is on the topics of improving environment-friendly technologies, such as advanced trends in gaining carbon or enhanced oil recovery in the refining industry," he stated.



He also mentioned that the oil refineries are looking for low-cost projects with high returns projects, such as removing bottlenecks and improving the infrastructure, production and competitive products, he added.



The minister pointed out that these restrictions pose a challenge to the refineries, which requires planning for what should be done toward the residual oil high sulfate content, which can no longer be combined in the fuel of the vessels, which need oil refineries to work quickly and take investment decisions on the treatment of the residual oil.



"The refining industry is witnessing a qualitative shift in the world markets as a result of the recommendations of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (Marpol) to reduce the proportion of sulphur in fuel for ships, as well as continuing changes in energy demand and the growth of the world economy and the new challenges such as electric cars," he added.



He pointed out that the marine fuel also witnessed rapid changes as a result of the decision of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to reduce sulphur content in marine fuel used in open seas from 3.5 per cent to 0.5 per cent expected to become effective in 2020, said the BNA report.



During the two-day event, experts will put spotlight on the legislative and environmental regulations and the most important investment decisions on the treatment of the residual oil as well as the future aspirations to reach solutions to make the remaining oil possible and economically feasible and eco-friendly.



Shaikh Mohammed also pointed out that Bahrain had acceded to the International Convention to prepare for and respond to the co-operation in the field of environmental pollution (OPRC) in 1990, according to the Decree Law No. (4) of year 2010.



However, it remains important to continue refining and petrochemical sectors work in finding solutions to the changing industrial landscape, through technology and innovation incentives with maintaining operational efficiency, he added. -- Tradearabia News ServiceMonday, December 3, 2018

Albert Einstein was a German-born theoretical physicist who developed the theory of relativityone of the two pillars of modern physics. He lived from 1879 to 1955. In 1921, he received the Nobel Prize in physics. While Einstein was visiting the United States in 1933, Adolph Hitler came into power. Because he was a Jew, Einstein did not return to Germany, and subsequently, in 1940, he became a US citizen.

On the eve of the Second World War, Einstein endorsed a letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, alerting him to the potential of extremely powerful bombs of a new kind. He recommended that the United States begin similar research, which eventually led to the Manhattan Project. Einstein supported the Allies, yet generally denounced the idea of nuclear fission as a weapon. He signed the Russell-Einstein Manifesto with British philosopher Bertrand Russell, which highlighted the danger of nuclear weapons.

According to an article in UPLIFT (December 16, 2015), Einstein wrote the following:

If we want to improve the world we cannot do it with scientific knowledge but with ideals. Confucius, Buddha, Jesus, and Gandhi have done more for humanity than science has done. We must begin with the heart of manwith his conscienceand the values of conscience can only be manifested by selfless service to mankind. Religion and science go to together.... I have faith in the universe, for it is rational. Law underlies each happening. And I have faith in my purpose here on earth. I have faith in my intuition, the language of my conscience, but I have no faith in speculation about Heaven and Hell. Im concerned with this timehere and now.

In other words, Einstein was a peacemaker from beginning to enda perspective with which I whole-heartedly agree. It is my hope I can contribute elements of peace to this beautiful earth. From your perspective, Dear Reader, do you think it important to work to actively create peace, or does this kind of effort turn you off? What ways do you already, or would you like to, bring more peace to your personal existence and the world at large? If you feel resistance to this endeavor, can you explore why and where that might come from? As always, all comments are welcome!(Bloomberg) -- President Donald Trump said he would soon tell Congress of plans to terminate the existing North American Free Trade Agreement, a move that would give lawmakers a six-month window to ratify a new regional trade pact signed on Friday between the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

I will be formally terminating Nafta shortly, Trump told reporters late Saturday aboard Air Force One as he returned from the Group of 20 summit in Argentina. So Congress will have a choice between the new deal, known as the U.S.M.C.A, or potentially no continental trade deal at all.

The threat, if enacted, would effectively remove a safety net from under the new trade pacts journey through Congress. Even though it was signed by leaders, the deal still needs to be ratified by lawmakers in the three countries. In the U.S., it will almost certainly be taken up by the next Congress, where Democrats will have a majority in the House starting in January. Some Democrats are warning they may not be satisfied by the terms.

Speaking Sunday on CNNs State of the Union, Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown of Ohio, a fierce Nafta critic who has said he worked with the administration in re-negotiating the deal, didnt answer how hed vote on it but said the works not done yet and theres still an opportunity to ask Mexico to strengthen labor requirements.

Not Far Enough

The deal doesnt go far enough to protect the dignity of jobs and labor conditions and doesnt live up to the promise the president said of a renegotiated Nafta, he said.

Democratic Senator Mark Warner of Virginia said the process will be more complicated than a simple approval of the new deal to replace Nafta.

Congress has a right to come in and review, whether its labor, whether its environmental, whether the deal is actually better, Warner said on CBSs Face the Nation. These are all open questions, and I think youve already seen pushback from folks on both sides of the aisle.

Warner said he was not ready at all at this point to say how hed vote on the pact.

Trumps statement may also be a bluff -- or prove harder than he thinks. Under terms of the existing 1994 Nafta pact, the president can give six-months notice of withdrawal, though its not binding. U.S. lawmakers have, however, said Congress would still need to repeal Naftas legislation to fully kill it.

Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and outgoing Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto signed an authorization for the deal on Friday morning in Argentina on the sidelines of the G-20, with their ministers signing it shortly after.

Trump announced his intentions on Nafta hours after meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping for dinner in Buenos Aires and reaching a truce in their escalating trade war.

We get rid of Nafta, Trump said. Its been a disaster for the United States. Its caused us tremendous amounts of unemployment and loss and company loss and everything else.

Some U.S. lawmakers, both Democrats and Republicans, have called for changes to the new regional pact inked on Friday, though Trumps trade czar has expressed confidence it will pass.

Pelosi View

The negotiations are not going to be reopened, right? The agreements been signed. We still have to put together an implementing bill, so there are things that we can do, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer told reporters Friday in Buenos Aires. He said he was in talks already with Democrats, and appeared unfazed. Well get the support of a lot of Democrats, a very high number of Democrats. Absolutely, just no doubt about it.

On Friday, Trump expressed optimism about getting the deal blessed by U.S. lawmakers. I look forward to working with members of Congress, he said. Its been so well reviewed I dont expect to have much of a problem.

Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic leader in the House, called the agreement a work in progress in a statement released on Friday evening. We are waiting to see enforcement provisions relating to workers and the environment, she said.

Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador took office as Mexicos president on Saturday; his Morena party, which with its allies holds a majority in Mexicos Senate, could also seek revisions. Incoming Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard, hosting a dinner for American visitors at Lopez Obradors inauguration, declined to comment on the news Saturday night.

Trudeau has a majority in Canadas House of Commons, leaving a clear path to pass a deal, but faces an election in October.

(Updates with Mark Warner comments in sixth paragraph.)

--With assistance from Katia Dmitrieva.

To contact the reporters on this story: Jennifer Epstein in Air Force One at jepstein32@bloomberg.net;Josh Wingrove in Buenos Aires at jwingrove4@bloomberg.net;Eric Martin in Mexico City at emartin21@bloomberg.net

To contact the editors responsible for this story: Michael Shepard at mshepard7@bloomberg.net, ;Vivianne Rodrigues at vrodrigues3@bloomberg.net, Mark Niquette, Ros Krasny

2018 Bloomberg L.P.U.S. crude oil production is at historic highs, and more of the black gold is finding its way to tankers along the Texas Gulf Coast and into the global market.

At the beginning of the year, Sean Strawbridge, 52, became CEO of the Port of Corpus Christi, one of the hot spots of U.S. oil exports. Hes emerged as a leading proponent for investing in new oil docks and loading infrastructure to allow for higher volumes of U.S. oil to flow to destinations across the world.

U.S. oil exports have averaged 1.8 million barrels a day through August.

Under Strawbridges leadership, the port is building its own oil export terminal on land owned by the port 2 miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico. The project, on Harbor Island, which could cost about $1 billion, would allow for very large crude carriers, or VLCCs, to dock and load their holds before sailing to far-flung markets.

The port and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are also widening and deepening the Corpus Christi Ship Channel, a $360 million project decades in the making. The work will provide for two-way tanker traffic in the channel and allow larger ships to reach the port.

Now Playing: At the beginning of 2018, Sean Strawbridge, 52, became CEO of the Port of Corpus Christi, one of the hot spots of U.S. oil exports. Hes emerged as a leading proponent for investing in new crude oil docks and loading infrastructure to allow for higher volumes of U.S. oil to flow to destinations across the world. Video: San Antonio Express-News

Following are excerpts from a recent interview with Strawbridge.

Q: Theres a race right now along the Texas Gulf Coast to build the first oil export terminal that can handle very large crude carriers. Who do you think is going to win?

A: Im sure for the investor community, its difficult to separate the wheat from the chaff. We have the good fortune of being very close to the continental shelf. Deep water is just a couple of miles from the entrance to the ship channel. And so for us to be able to go deeper and bring that deep water to the safe harbor, to the terminals, is much more economically feasible and realistic.

Q: Youve raised concerns with Swiss commodity trader Trafiguras plans to build an offshore crude oil loading terminal near Corpus Christi. Why?

A: The great state of Texas has invested billions of dollars in its coastal infrastructure  in its ports, its harbors, its navigable channels. Its got 18 port authorities and six deep-draft ports. Its got a huge inter-coastal infrastructure. All of that has been done under the collaborative construct of state agencies and the local port authorities and local municipalities. What Trafigura is proposing is a circumvention of that conventional construct, which from our standpoint is very concerning. They have dusted off an obscure, arcane federal statute that was enacted at another time, back in the early 70s for another purpose.

What it does is it essentially puts all the oversight with the federal government. The reason why they (want to build) out in federal waters is not to get to deep water, because were close to the shelf here. We can get deep water in state waters. Its to try and fast-track their permitting process using the statute that they believe is a loophole.

With their track record in environmental violations globally, we just think that weve got a better idea, and were hopeful that Trafigura recognizes that and decides that theyre not going to continue to pursue that. If they dont come to that decision on their own, Im sure that Gov. Abbott will recognize those risks, and he wouldnt want to put the citizens of the great state of Texas  he wouldnt want to risk their livelihood. We learn that from the Deepwater Horizon. We dont want a repeat of that if we dont have to.

Q: The port has been working on a lot of projects  an ethane steam cracker joint venture between Exxon Mobil and SABIC, Cheniere Energys liquid natural gas export facility, your own proposed crude oil export terminal on Harbor Island. What does all this development mean for the port?

A: You know, I like to say to the industry that, Come to the Port Corpus Christi cause we are open for business. I am trying to, and I think my staff is doing a good job of really making us a shining example of government that works, at a time when we so rarely have an opportunity to say that.

Q: There has been resistance to some of these projects. Citizens in Portland have protested against the Exxon Mobil and SABIC joint venture, while residents in Port Aransas have voiced their own concerns over the plans for Harbor Island. Whats your reaction to the people who are concerned about these developments?

A: Theres always going to be people who have concerns. So the important thing, as a Port Authority and a public agency, is transparency. At the end of the day, what weve got to do is make sure that theres no ambiguity about what our intentions are, about how we want to go about our developments, and how our customers are going to go about their operations. And we also have to keep an open mind. Minds are like parachutes, right? They work better when theyre open.

So when there are voices of concern, thats different than voices of opposition. Voices of concern are people who really want to better understand before they can form an opinion. They want more facts. They want more information. Voices of opposition have already taken a position without knowing all the facts. Theres always going to be voices of opposition in any development, particularly developments that are going to have to do with fossil fuels.

Were not going to change that constituencys core values. In fact, thats not what were trying to do is change anybodys core values. Were trying to align our values and our commitment to doing things in a responsible, sustainable way with what the community wants. The commerce and environmental sustainability and stewardship  those are not mutually exclusive disciplines.

Weve got to constantly earn the trust of the local and regional communities, and the best way to do that is give them a seat at the table, listen to what their concerns are, answer all the questions that we can possibly answer.

Q: What if concerned residents hear all the information and then become opponents?

A: With a certain constituency, theyre not going to agree with everything that the port is doing. All we can do is continue to make that commitment for making sure that quality of life, and that ecosystem, is protected as well as continuing to drive economic prosperity.

Look, at the end of the day, without economic prosperity, nothing else happens.

rdruzin@express-news.net

twitter.com/druz_journoDoes your favorite foodie already own all the knives, pots and pans they can handle? Then consider any of these engaging cookbooks as a worthy gift.

Everyday Dorie: The Way I Cook by Dorie Greenspan (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, $35): Dorie Greenspan has become a household staple thanks to her slew of detailed and precise recipes published in more than a dozen cookbooks. Her latest tome focuses on simple and elegant dishes designed to deliver maximum comfort and flavor.

Hardie Grant

From The Earth: Worlds Great, Rare and Almost Forgotten Vegetables by Peter Gilmore (Hardie Grant, $60): Need to break out of the produce bin rut? This gorgeous coffee table tome highlights a wide swath of heirloom plants and how to use them in beautiful, showy recipes.

/Phaidon

The German Cookbook by Alfons Schuhbeck (Phaidon, $49.95): German cookery is the backbone of many Texan culinary traditions, and this new collection of more than 500 recipes is vital reading for anyone looking to explore those ties in detail. The dishes in this book are traditional and very Old World, but the instructions translate well to a modern American kitchen.

William Morrow

Pasta, Pretty Please: A Vibrant Approach to Handmade Noodles by Linda Miller Nicholson (William Morrow, $28.50): Youll never think of pasta the same way after flipping through this guide to fanciful fettuccine. Nicholson is an artist whos reinvented everyones favorite comfort carb as a colorful and whimsical expression of joy.

Smithsonian Books

Sweet Home Cafe Cookbook by Albert G. Lukas and Jessica B. Harris (Smithsonian Books, $29.95): This collection of recipes from Sweet Home Cafe, the restaurant housed inside the National Museum of African American History & Culture, is one of the most layered examinations of African-American foodways across several distinct regions of America.

/Casemate Publishers

The U.S. Army Cooks Manual edited by R. Sheppard (Casemate Publishers, $14.95): Chances are slim many of us will ever need to cook buckwheat cakes or lobster salad for a crowd of 60 hungry men, but when that time comes, better bring an Army. Or at least the Armys cookbook. This title is rich with history about how the U.S. Army fed itself in the 19th and early 20th century and more than 100 recipes.

Paul Stephen is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | pstephen@express-news.net | Twitter: @pjbites | Instagram: @pjstephenThe outdoor grilling and smoking season never ends in South Texas, so take advantage with this lineup of gadgets and devices that will be sure the please the backyard barbecuers on your shopping list.

Char-Broil

The Big Easy Oil-less Turkey Fryer ($99.99): Want to make a fried turkey without the danger of burning down the whole neighborhood? This device hooks up to a propane tank and uses infrared cooking technology to deliver tender turkey, chicken or whatever else you pay put into it with a crispy skin. Available at multiple retail outlets, including Academy.The Abu Dhabi Police (ADP) has launched a campaign to guarantee the sustainability of the tourism sector and ensure visitor happiness and satisfaction, as well as to promote the tourism security in Abu Dhabi.



Colonel Imran Ahmed Al Mazroui, director of the Criminal Investigations Department of the Criminal Security Sector, highlighted the importance of the 'Seyahati Aaminah', or 'My Tourism is Safe', campaign, which will run until the end of the year, reported Emirates news agency Wam.



The campaign aims to enrich the experience of tourists and providing a complete package of police services, as well as to increase the presence of tourism police patrols in major areas.



He also noted some of the services that the ADP is keen to provide, including an immediate security response, hospitality and constant smiles, as well as other security, community, ambulance, surveillance and protection-related services.



Al Mazroui stressed that the campaign will distribute printed guides in English, French, Chinese and Urdu that explain current laws and regulations, and raise the awareness of tourists about the UAEs customs and traditions. It will also include emergency numbers, cultural destinations and tourism resorts, along with guidelines for enjoying the nations beaches, he added.



He also pointed out that tourism security has acquired significant importance in the UAE, especially in Abu Dhabi, while highlighting the ADPs efforts to establish temporary and permanent tourism police offices.



Al Mazrouei urged tourists to follow the countrys laws and regulations, respect local traditions, avoid incorrect behaviour, and respect the feelings of families, while wishing them an enjoyable time in the UAE.It was a very long time coming, but the San Antonio Four no longer have a criminal history.

State District Judge Catherine Torres-Stahl handed out orders Monday expunging the records of Elizabeth Ramirez, 44, Cassandra Rivera, 43, Kristie Mayhugh, 45, and Anna Vasquez, 43.

With the judges order, all government agencies that house information on criminal charges, indictments, arrests or convictions related to the cases in which the women were found innocent must seal or destroy the records.

The women consistently maintained their innocence from that day 24 years ago when Ramirezs nieces, then ages 7 and 9, accused the women of brutalizing them while on a weekend visit with Ramirez, their aunt.

Ramirez was convicted in 1997 and the other three in 1998 of aggravated sexual assault of a child.

The case was the subject of a documentary film that opened in San Antonio in September, Southwest of Salem: The Story of the San Antonio Four.

After the women served nearly 15 years in prison, one of the nieces publicly recanted. She said family members upset that her aunt had come out as a lesbian told her to lie. So did her father, who she said was upset that Ramirez had spurned his advances.

Whatever it takes to get them out, Im going to do, Stephanie Limon Martinez told the Express-News in 2012. I cant live my life knowing that four women are sleeping in a cage because of me.

Her older sister has maintained the assaults occurred but said she wouldnt testify again.

During court testimony in the aftermath of the recanting, it was also shown that faulty science helped support the charge of rape.

The four women were exonerated by the states highest criminal court in 2016.

If that (exoneration) was a successful surgery, even successful surgeries leave scars: Criminal records. Indictments. Falsely convicted. Wrongly convicted, said Mike Ware, executive director of the Innocence Project of Texas, which fought for the womens freedom for years. Judge Torres-Stahl has signed orders erasing those final scars, such that they no longer will have their criminal histories. Its a very important step.

Experts at the time called the exoneration rare and momentous, and came years after lower courts and prosecutors acknowledged serious doubts about the convictions, and allowed the women to be released pending further legal action.

Seven of nine judges on the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals heard the case. All agreed the women should have a new trial, and five said outright that the women were innocent, which paved the way for each of them to later receive state compensation of about $80,000 for each year they were imprisoned  a little more than $1 million apiece.

In the opinion written by Justice David Newell, the four had won the right to proclaim to the citizens of Texas that they did not commit a crime. That they are innocent. That they deserve to be exonerated.

These women have carried that burden. They are innocent. And they are exonerated, Newell wrote.

Despite the exoneration, official records still showed the womens arrests and that they at one time had a felony conviction. Having a felony conviction can make it difficult to get employment, rent a place to live or even travel abroad.

With the expunction signed by Torres-Stahl, the womens convictions are gone.

I wanted to thank the court for making time and signing the order of exoneration, Ware said Monday. I think that a little over 20 years ago the criminal justice system made a horrible mistake and convicted four innocent women.

Its tragic. But what we can be proud of is that it does provide a process to correct mistakes it made, and it has done what the system provides.

At a proceeding in her courtroom Monday, Torres-Stahl called the women up to the bench, one by one, to hand them the expunction documents.

As each took the papers and read them, they cried, as did relatives who sat in the gallery of the 175th state District Court.

It is my honor and privilege, Torres-Stahl said. Its not often we have the ability to do that, to see a wrong made right.

Expunging records can cost $150,000 and more for just one person, but all costs for all four of the women were covered by the Innocence Project of Texas, said Vasquez, who now works for the advocacy organization as its outreach and education director.

Twenty-four years fighting for a crime that never occurred, said Vasquez, who was 19 years old when she was accused. This right here is huge.

Vasquez said it wasn't easy walking into the courthouse, and into the courtroom where everything happened.

Theres a lot of memories, she said. It was difficult.

Rivera now works for San Antonio attorney Rosie Gonzalez, who will be sworn in at the first of the year as judge of County Court-at-Law No. 13. Rivera noted their families endured a lot during the ordeal.

Even though we were convicted, they suffered as much as we did, said Rivera. Its a good feeling to know that its finally completely over.

Ramirez, who is taking some time off from working, cried as she clutched the arm of her mother after receiving Torres-Stahls expunction order.

For years she prayed for this to happen, Ramirez said.

Mayhugh, who used to work for Toyota, has moved to Houston to be with her mother. She said she was lucky Toyota hired her after her release from prison. She studied to become a veterinary technician and, now that she has no felony conviction on her record, she looks forward to being able to get a job in that field.

Now that my record is clean, I wont have any problems, Mayhugh said.

ezavala@express-news.net | Twitter: @elizabeth2863The mounting toll of military suicides since 2003  an intractable problem highlighted again Friday with a murder-suicide at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland  has surpassed the number of troops killed in Iraq.

The latest Pentagon statistics on suicides in all service branches, combined with previously-released data compiled by the San Antonio Express-News, brought the total to 4,839 for the years 2003 through 2015. In the same period, 4,496 American were lost serving in Iraq.

The shooter at Lacklands Medina Annex, identified as Technical Sgt. Steven D. Bellino, a 342nd Training Squadron student, killed the units commander, Lt. Col. William Bill Schroeder, after a brief struggle that allowed a senior non-commissioned officer to escape, according to one account. Bellino was being escorted to a disciplinary hearing early Friday and was armed with two Glock pistols, sources said. The Air Force has not described a motive.

Years of research have yielded a good understanding of suicide risk factors, the Defense Suicide Prevention Office and other experts say.

But the numbers remain stubbornly high  defying myriad programs, a $50 million research effort called the Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers, or STARRs, and creation of a Pentagon office in 2012 to deal with the issue.

Last years toll of 475 suicides is the highest since 2012. The Army, Air Force and Marine Corps saw increases in self-inflicted deaths in 2015, while the Navy reported a drop-off.

"I think we're making progress, but I think it's slow," said Alan Peterson, professor of medicine and director of the largest military-related PTSD research consortium, based at the UT Health Science Center San Antonio. I think we have a lot of ideas about additional ways to intervene, and I think were now at the point where we need to start implementing some of these ideas.

The problem often has been associated with the Army, which carried the heaviest burden of the Iraq war and saw a doubling in the number of self-inflicted deaths from 2004 to 2008. The Marines and Air Force also experienced modest increases over that period. Suicides in the Navy remained relatively stable until spiking in 2012 and 2014.

The Army created a partnership with the National Institute of Mental Health to find researchers who could design and implement a large study. The resulting STARRs initiative brought investigators from Harvard Medical School, the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, University of Michigan, and University of California.

The Pentagon suicide office said most prevention research in recent years has focused on identifying and predicting risk factors. The problem is using what is known in a way that works.

The Air Forces suicide prevention program manager, Lt. Col. David Linkh, said suicide rates have gone up among all demographics and age groups, with young enlistees at the greatest risk.

Theres always some level of speculation, he said. Its an imperfect science and we dont have a clear answer as to why rates are rising.

Some clues, many questions

Army Capt. Jonathan Muniz was a soldiers soldier, an enlistee who joined in 1993 and became an officer with a chest full of ribbons.

A physicians assistant, he survived a grueling competition to win the Expert Field Medical Badge, which tests a soldiers combat and medical skills over a period of days. Typically, only one in every six soldiers passes. The Army said he spent 23 months in Iraq and Afghanistan over the years, earning the coveted Combat Medical Badge.

He was 42 when he shot himself in Killeen on the evening of Jan. 8, 2015, leaving behind a wife and son who live in San Antonio.

His wife declined to be interviewed. An obituary in the Express-News described him as a man of accomplishment  commissioned as a first lieutenant 11 years after he enlisted and earning a bachelors degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Jonathan loved his family far and wide, but especially his wife and son. He was passionate about helping others, his obituary stated. He was an avid reader, enjoyed watching movies, and absolutely loved music.

Muniz was part of another bad year for the Army in which 274 active-duty, reserve and National Guard soldiers died by their own hand. It wasnt the highest total since 2003 but a significant increase from 2014.

The risk of suicide follows people after they leave the military. A study of 1.3 million veterans who had been on active duty during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, 317,581 of whom deployed, found higher suicide rates than the U.S. population.

Thats a dramatic turnaround from before the two wars, when suicide rates among active-duty and former military personnel were 20 to 30 percent lower than for all Americans.

Study predicts suicides

A study Peterson helped craft showed that one form of therapy reduced suicide attempts by 60 percent among 150 active-duty soldiers at high risk of killing themselves  an event he calls a major milestone in clinical care.

The Pentagon is taking steps to spread lessons from the trial and some think the program should be expanded immediately but others have called for more study, he said.

Another study released just 10 days ago also shows promise. It suggests health-care providers could intervene before troops kill themselves by monitoring their online comments on social media accounts to identify those at risk.

Researchers obtained records for 1,400 service members, half of whom had died by suicide in 2010 or 2011 and half from other causes.

Combing through the posts of 315 people who had publicly available social media data, they found patterns in comments when categorized into five major risk variables  stressful life events dubbed triggers, negative beliefs and thoughts, negative emotions or feelings; physical complaints and concerns, and behaviors that undermined the victims ability to cope. Some three dozen indicators of risk were among the variables.

A trigger, for example, included relationship problems, significant loss, and legal or financial woes. Those at long-term risk revealed triggering events on social media and also expressed negative emotions and beliefs  a pattern that strengthened as the victim got closer to his or her self-inflicted death.

Six months before someone dies by suicide they say, I had an argument with my significant other and then a couple of Facebook posts later theyll say, Man, it really sucks. I feel terrible, said Craig Bryan, assistant professor of clinical psychology at the University of Utah and a former faculty member at the UT Health Science Center in San Antonio, who led the study.

As they get closer to dying, a month away, they say, I had yet another argument with my spouse, and then right away after that they say, Its unbelievable, shes so unfair, Im a total loser and I cant take this anymore, I have to do something about this, this is the worst day of my life, he added. So its like all the sudden, its not just saying, I feel bad, its like I feel bad and its horrible and I cant take this and Im a horrible person.

The study described a growing consensus that insomnia, agitation and social withdrawal are warning signs of an imminent suicide.

More research on social media, with larger sample sizes, is needed, the authors said. But while conceding that privacy concerns are a hurdle in such research, they called for asking troops to be part it, even if it influences their social media behavior. They urged the Pentagon to integrate publicly available social media data into its suicide-prevention programs, saying it could save lives.

Were very excited with the results, to say the least. But were trying to be cautious about not over-interpreting them, Bryan said. This is that first step where we think this is a new way of approaching suicide prevention using newer data analytic techniques that are not very commonly used amongst researchers.

Not related to combat

It was thought that war-zone tours played a role in suicides, but that isnt so clear anymore. Army demographic summaries, which had been released to the media until the past few years, showed that roughly two in every three soldiers committing suicide had served one or more deployments. But the study, co-authored by VA health scientist specialist Tim Bullman and released in November, reached an unexpected conclusion.

We included both deployed and non-deployed veterans, and what we found out is that there is no deployment effect, that service in Iraq and Afghanistan is not associated with this increased risk of suicide, Bullman added. It looks instead that just military service in general is associated with increased risk of suicide.

Bullmans study in the Annals of Epidemiology noted that a recent analysis tracked an elevated suicide risk among currently and previously deployed soldiers. But other studies didnt make the same connection.

Suicide rates for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans receiving care at VA facilities, moreover, were not that different from patients of other wars when adjusted for their psychiatric conditions and other demographic variables, such as whether they were male or female and where they lived. Still, veterans returning from the desert are more at risk of suicide if they have a major depressive disorder and PTSD.

A study of 212,664 former active-duty troops who served in Iraq and Afghanistan also showed their suicide risk in 2005 was a third higher than the general population. Researchers discovered that the suicide rate was highest for them during the first three years back in the United States.

But war veterans actually had a slightly lower suicide rate than military personnel who had never deployed.

If that strikes some familiar with the long wars impact on veterans as counterintuitive, it also underscores the complexity of todays all-volunteer force. Researchers agree the latest generation of veterans is different from those of the past. A larger percentage of the military has gone to war  and not just for one tour. Many have returned for two, three and four tours.

Large numbers of National Guard and Reserve troops have deployed in both Iraq and Afghanistan, again for multiple tours. More women have been in the fight. Many have lost friends and seen others injured. Many wrestle with PTSD.

But that isnt the only complication. With most of the force finally home and safe, soldiers in particular are facing the possibility of losing their jobs. That is especially true for those struggling with health and weight problems, or even passing a PT test.

Given the many variables, Peterson, the Strong Star Consortium director in San Antonio, said its hard for anyone to know who might fall victim to suicide, unless theyre already known as high-risk cases.

When youre looking at the population as a whole, it is a real significant challenge to figure out which out of 10,000 people is going to be the person who might commit suicide in a one-year time frame, he said. I dont know if it is too complicated, but it is very complicated, so theres not an easy solution.

sigc@express-news.netWhen the University of Texas at San Antonios facilities department announced in 2011 that its housekeepers would have to start clocking in and out of work each day on a computer, Erlinda Castillo wasnt alone in being terrified.

Castillo, who dropped out of school at 13 to help her mother raise her 13 siblings, had never sat in front of a keyboard and was scared she wouldnt know what buttons to push.

Her remarkable perseverance, however, helped create several educational projects that have borne fruit and fellowship among the people who clean up after the UTSA community and those who stepped up to assist them.

It all began when Castillo stopped Ilna Colemere, instructional technology coordinator in UTSAs College of Education and Human Development, in a hallway and asked if she might teach her how to use a computer.

Can I ask you a question? Castillo remembers opening that conversation.

Her uneasy query spurred the creation of Erlindas Wish, a project that has armed more than 100 housekeepers with basic computer skills. It, in turn, created a parallel project to help some of them improve their English-language skills, then birthed a writing project for them.

Ultimately, Castillos bravery led to the creation of a cookbook collection, El Rincon de los Antojos, now in UTSA Libraries Special Collections, preserved for generations to come. Antojo is Spanish for craving, or appetite.

Hand-written and hand-designed, their cookbooks dont just showcase favorite family recipes, from Tex-Mex enchiladas to Filipino-inspired chicken adobo, but add voices to the collection that arent routinely heard in a university setting.

Their collection is part of the librarys larger Mexican Cookbooks Collection, which contains more than 1,800 cookbooks from 1789 to present.

Castillo recalled that Colemere taught them step by step, from turning on a computer to practice to homework.

When the cookbook writers produced their recipes for appreciative guests and displayed their books in May, Castillo said, the only people surprised by her accomplishment were some of her nephews, glad for not having to provide the instruction themselves.

They were highly motivated and persistent and constantly interacted, said Colemere, who received the universitys Extra Mile Award for her efforts. They were quick to learn, very quick.

Her students got 10-hour classes each semester. Many of them didnt otherwise have access to a computer.

Colemere adapted the class to accommodate their needs, focusing on learning how to email, save and retrieve photos from cellphones, and how to browse for information online.

Google proved as important a site to the housekeepers as to the rest of online humanity.

One of the goals was to make everyone aware they have a voice, Colemere said. That voice has gotten louder over the years.

The project underscored for her the need to see a group of people beyond what they do. Housekeeping may be their job, she said, but they are more than that.

Colemere also found learning computer skills raised self-esteem, providing an avenue to give their legacies to the university with their cookbooks.

They care deeply for this institution, she said. It was so easy to give back to them.

Each one-of-a-kind cookbook includes artwork that reflects the stories and recipes of the families within. One of Castillos recipes calls for a small onion, a can of enchilada sauce, loads of grated American cheese and red corn tortillas, softened in hot oil.

It makes me so happy, she said, that someone, someday might look inside, make her recipe and invite friends over.

After becoming more confident on that keyboard, Castillo took another step. I bought me a small, little laptop, she said. Its a Dell.

eayala@express-news.net | @ElaineAyalaLow cost carrier Wizz Air has said that high airport costs and government protectionism of Air Serbia are preventing it from developing at its Belgrade base. Speaking to EX-YU Aviation News, the airline's CEO, Jozsef Varadi, said, "I think the significant issue in Belgrade that has hindered our development there is the cost of the airport relative to its peers. It is a high price airport and we need to see costs coming down. As we are bringing in more passengers and operations to the airport, we need to be at least in line with what we are paying at similar places. I think that is one issue. We will see what VINCI will bring into the party. I don't know".





The CEO added, "I think the Serbian government has taken steps towards protecting Air Serbia's business and I think they are trying to put some pressure on competitors like ourselves. These two factors are really holding us back in Belgrade. Nevertheless, we are totally committed to the market and we hope to see some improvements of commercial terms in the marketplace and certainly that would attract us with more capacity". Wizz Air carried 745.000 passengers on its flights from Serbia in 2017 and put some 900.000 seats on sale from the country this year.





The low cost airline expanded its operations from Belgrade last year when it based a second aircraft in the city and launched four new routes. The expansion came three years after it decided to significantly slash its services from the Serbian capital following a public spat over fees. This resulted in the airline relocating one of the two aircraft it had stationed in Belgrade. At the time, the carrier said the city had become one of the most expensive in its network and accused "wannabe monopolists" Air Serbia and Etihad Airways of being behind the surge in fees. Since last year, Wizz Air has discontinued flights from Belgrade to Nuremberg and Friedrichshafen, and turned its year-long service to Larnaca into a seasonal summer route.BRIDGEPORT  A robbery has left a local Toys for Tots program lacking thousands of dollars worth of playthings that were supposed to be donated to needy families  roughly a week before those toys were supposed to be delivered.

Now theyre hoping a holiday miracle will help refill their stockings.

On Saturday, someone broke into a series of storage containers in the parking lot of the Greater Bridgeport Christian Fellowship Church and stole roughly $80,000 worth of toys, said Jerry Martinez, co-director of Toys for Tots in Bridgeport.

It was mostly toys for kids age 7 to 14, Martinez said. Remote control cars, skateboards, Barbies, LOL dolls, board games. That stuff took the biggest hit.

He said the toys were to be donated to families and organizations in Bridgeport and multiple surrounding towns  including Trumbull, Stratford, and Monroe  on Dec. 15.

Now that the inventory has been gutted, the organization is struggling to get enough toys to donate to the 1,500 families it serves. Martinez said Toys for Tots is still trying to hit its Dec. 15 distribution goal, but it may need to make some adjustments if there arent enough toys in time.

On Monday, Martinez said Toys for Tots had already gotten multiple offers of help.

Weve got lots of individuals who have reached out to get us donations, he said.

More for you Toy drives in Connecticut spread holiday joy

At least one local business has also extended a helping hand  Wonderland of Ice in Bridgeport. Wonderland owner and general manager Lisa Fedick said she was heartbroken by the news reports of the Toys for Tots break-on.

That church is near the rink, she said. This just isnt right.

Fedick said Wonderland has donated $2,000 to Toys for Tots to help replenish the toy reserves. Wonderland is hosting its own toy collection program Dec. 16  a day after Toys for Tots is supposed to distribute its items to the needy. But Fedick said if Wonderland collects a surplus of items, Toy for Tots is welcome to them.

Fedick said programs such as these are essential to making the holidays magical for children.

I think its so important for kids to feel loved and feel that people are looking out for them, Fedick said.

Those interested in donating to Toys for Tots can call 203-726-3614 or 203-726-3610, or visit https://bridgeport-ct.toysfortots.org/local-coordinator-sites/lco-sites/default.aspx.India-based Jet Airways plans to cancel about 40 flights a week on seven Gulf routes from December 5, reports said.

Jet Airways has decided to withdraw its services to Doha from Kochi, Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram as well as to Abu Dhabi from Lucknow and Mangalore. Besides, the airline will also not operate on Mangalore-Dubai route, a source said.

This apart, the services on Delhi-Muscat route are also being withdrawn from this month, a report said.

The airline is reported to be in financial difficulties and the latest move is aimed at trimming unviable flights and adding new ones where it hopes to make money, said an Economic TImes report.

However, the airline claimed that the scale of its operations will remain unchanged.

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways holds 24 per cent stake in the domestic full service carrier.GREENWICH  A home-repair contractor has been charged with allegedly running a business with a crooked foundation.

Robert Karwowski, 43, of Schoolhouse Road, Tuxedo Park, N.Y., was extradited from the Orange County (N.Y.) Correctional Facility to face charges in Greenwich late last week. He was cited for first-degree larceny, a felony, as well as illegal use of a fictitious trade name, violation of home improvement regulations and offering home improvements without a license.

Police said Karwowski was contracted to put in high-end windows on a home renovation  then tried to use an inferior brand instead.

A homeowner contacted police about a job on Huntzinger Drive in late May, and police determined that Karwowski and his company, RK Development, was not on the level, according to Lt. John Slusarz.

An officer investigated and found that he (Karwowski) was not licensed and tried to pass off material that wasnt what it was supposed to be, said the lieutenant. The homeowner realized something was up.

The amount of money allegedly taken by Karwowski for the fraudulent repair work was in excess of $10,000, leading to a felony charge.

Bail was set at $5,000. Greenwich police discovered warrants for Karwowski in East Hartford and Manchester.

Police advised residents looking to do home-improvement projects to consult the web site of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. Research and get references if youre putting up a lot of money, the police spokesman said. At the very least, a contractor should have a license and insurance for renovation work.

Karwowski was released on a $5,000 bond and turned over to authorities from East Hartford.Tahoe Resources Inc., together with its subsidiaries, acquires, explores for, develops, and operates mineral properties in the Americas. It explores for silver, gold, lead, zinc, and copper deposits, as well as precious metals assets. The company holds interest in the La Arena gold mine located in the Huamachuco district of northern Peru; Shahuindo mine located in the province of Cajabamba in northern Peru; and La Arena II, a copper-gold porphyry deposit located in Peru. It also holds interest in the Timmins mines, including the Bell Creek and Timmins West mines, the Fenn-Gib project, the Juby project, the Vogel project, and the Gold River project located in Timmins, Ontario. The company was formerly known as CKM Resources Inc. and changed its name to Tahoe Resources Inc. in January 2010. Tahoe Resources Inc. was incorporated in 2009 and is headquartered in Reno, Nevada.

Read MoreThere is not enough analysis data for Enel Generacion Chile.

4.1 Community Rank

Outperform Votes Enel Generacion Chile has received 205 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.)

Underperform Votes Enel Generacion Chile has received 122 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.)

Community Sentiment Enel Generacion Chile has received 62.69% outperform votes from our community.

MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about Enel Generacion Chile and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe EOCC will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe EOCC will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days.

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NextThe following companies are subsidiares of General Motors: 2140879 Ontario Inc., ACAR Leasing, ACAR Leasing Ltd., ACF Investment, ACF Investment Corp., AFS SenSub, APGO Trust, Adam Opel, Adam Opel GmbH, Aftermarket (UK), AmeriCredit, AmeriCredit Consumer Loan, AmeriCredit Consumer Loan Company Inc., AmeriCredit Financial Services, AmeriCredit Financial Services Inc., AmeriCredit Funding, AmeriCredit Syndicated Warehouse Trust, Annunciata Corporation, Argonaut Holdings, Argonaut Holdings LLC, BOCO (Proprietary), BOCO (Proprietary) Limited, Banco GMAC, Banco GMAC S.A., Baylis (Gloucester), Boco Trust, Boden Brussels, CHEVYPLAN, CHEVYPLAN S.A. Sociedad Administradora de Planes de Autofinanciamiento Comercial, Cadillac, Cadillac Europe, Cadillac Europe GmbH, Carve-Out Ownership, Carve-Out Ownership Cooperative LLC, Chevrolet Deutschland GmbH, Chevrolet Sales (Thailand), Chevrolet Sales (Thailand) Limited, Chevrolet Sales India, Chevrolet Sales India Private Ltd., Chevrolet Sociedad Anonima de Ahorro para Fines Determinados, Controladora General Motors, Controladora General Motors S.A. de C.V., Cruise, DCJ1, DCJ1 LLC, DMAX, DMAX Ltd., Dealership Liquidations, Dealership Liquidations Inc., Delphi Energy and Engine Management Systems UK, Delphi Energy and Engine Management Systems UK Overseas Corporation, EDS (Electronic Data Systems), FAW-GM, Fundacion Chevrolet, G.M.A.C., GCAR Titling Ltd., GM (UK) Pension, GM (UK) Pension Trustees Limited, GM APO Holdings, GM Administradora de Bens, GM Administradora de Bens Ltda., GM Asia Pacific Regional Headquarters Ltd., GM Auslandsprojekte, GM Automotive, GM Automotive Services Belgium, GM CME, GM Canada Holdings, GM Canada Limited, GM Components Holdings, GM Components Holdings LLC, GM Cruise, GM Cruise Holdings LLC, GM Cruise LLC, GM Defense, GM Eurometals, GM Eurometals Inc., GM Europe Treasury, GM Finance, GM Finance Co. Holdings LLC, GM Financial, GM Financial AB, GM Financial Canada, GM Financial Canada Leasing, GM Financial Canada Leasing Ltd., GM Financial Colombia Holdings LLC, GM Financial Colombia S.A. Compania de Financiamiento, GM Financial Consumer, GM Financial Consumer Discount, GM Financial Consumer Discount Company, GM Financial Del Peru, GM Financial GmbH, GM Financial Holdings LLC, GM Financial Insurance Services, GM Financial Mexico Holdings, GM Financial Mexico Holdings LLC, GM Financial Real Estate, GM Financial de Mexico, GM Financial de Mexico S.A. de C.V. SOFOM E.R., GM Financial del Peru S.A.C, GM Global Business Services, GM Global Propulsion Systems -Torino S.r.l., GM Global Purchasing and Supply Chain, GM Global Technology Operations, GM Global Technology Operations LLC, GM Global Tooling, GM Global Tooling Company LLC, GM Global Treasury Centre Limited, GM Holden, GM Holden Pty Ltd., GM Holdings U.K. No.1 Limited, GM Inversiones Santiago Limitada, GM Investment Trustees Limited, GM Korea, GM Korea Company, GM LAAM Holdings, GM LAAM Holdings LLC, GM Mexico Holdings, GM Mobility Europe GmbH, GM PSA Purchasing Services, GM Personnel Services, GM Personnel Services Inc., GM Philippines Inc., GM Plats (Proprietary), GM Regional Holdings, GM Regional Holdings LLC, GM Retirees Pension Trustees, GM Retirees Pension Trustees Limited, GM Subsystems Manufacturing, GM Subsystems Manufacturing LLC, GM Technical Center Korea Ltd., GM Viet Nam Motor Company, GM-DI Leasing, GM-DI Leasing LLC, GMAC - Instituicao Financeira de Credito, GMAC Administradora de Consorcios, GMAC Administradora de Consorcios Ltda., GMAC Banque, GMAC Continental, GMAC Espana de Financiacion, GMAC Holdings (U.K.), GMAC Lease B.V. (aka Masterlease Europe), GMAC Nederland N.V., GMAC Prestadora de Servicios de Mao de Obra Ltda., GMAC Servicios, GMAC UK, GMAC de Venezuela, GMAC-Prestadora de Servios de Mo-de-Obra, GMACI Corretora de Seguros, GMACI Corretora de Seguros Ltda, GMAM Real Estate I, GMCH&SP Private Equity II, GMCH&SP Private Equity II L.P., GMF Australia Pty Ltd, GMF Europe, GMF Europe Holdco, GMF Europe LLP, GMF Floorplan Owner Revolving Trust, GMF Funding, GMF Germany Holdings, GMF Global Assignment, GMF Global Assignment LLC, GMF International, GMF International LLC, GMF Leasing LLC, GMF Leasing Warehousing Trust, GMF Wholesale Receivables, GMGP Holdings, General Motors (China) Investment Company, General Motors (China) Investment Company Limited, General Motors (Thailand), General Motors (Thailand) Limited, General Motors - Colmotores, General Motors - Colmotores S.A., General Motors Advisory Services LLC, General Motors Africa and Middle East, General Motors Africa and Middle East FZE, General Motors Asia, General Motors Asia LLC, General Motors Asia Pacific Holdings, General Motors Asia Pacific Holdings LLC, General Motors Asset Management, General Motors Asset Management Corporation, General Motors Australia, General Motors Australia Pty Ltd., General Motors Austria, General Motors Austria, General Motors Auto, General Motors Auto LLC, General Motors Automobiles Philippines, General Motors Automobiles Philippines Inc., General Motors Automotive Holdings, General Motors Automotive Holdings S.L., General Motors Belgique Automobile NV, General Motors Belgium, General Motors Chile, General Motors Chile Industria Automotriz Limitada, General Motors China LLC, General Motors Daewoo Auto and Technology, General Motors Daewoo Auto and Technology CIS LLC, General Motors East Africa, General Motors Egypt, General Motors Egypt S.A.E., General Motors Espana, General Motors Europe Holdings, General Motors Europe Limited, General Motors Financial Chile, General Motors Financial Chile Limitada, General Motors Financial Chile S.A., General Motors Financial Company, General Motors Financial Company Inc., General Motors Financial International, General Motors Financial Italia, General Motors Financial Suisse, General Motors Financial UK, General Motors Financial of Canada, General Motors Financial of Canada Ltd., General Motors Finland, General Motors France, General Motors GBS Hungary, General Motors Global Service Operations, General Motors Global Service Operations Inc., General Motors Hellas, General Motors Holden Australia, General Motors Holden Australia NSC, General Motors Holden Australia NSC Pty Ltd., General Motors Holden Australia Pty Ltd., General Motors Holdings LLC, General Motors IT Services (Ireland) Limited, General Motors India Private, General Motors India Private Limited, General Motors International Holdings, General Motors International Holdings LLC, General Motors International Operations, General Motors International Operations Pte. Ltd., General Motors International Services Company, General Motors International Services Company SAS, General Motors International Services LLC, General Motors Investment Limited, General Motors Investment Management, General Motors Investment Management Corporation, General Motors Investment Participacoes, General Motors Investment Participacoes Ltda., General Motors Investments, General Motors Investments Pty. Ltd., General Motors Ireland, General Motors Israel, General Motors Israel Ltd., General Motors Italia, General Motors Japan, General Motors Japan Limited, General Motors LLC, General Motors Limited, General Motors Manufacturing Poland, General Motors Nederland, General Motors New Zealand Pensions, General Motors New Zealand Pensions Limited, General Motors Overseas, General Motors Overseas Commercial Vehicle, General Motors Overseas Commercial Vehicle Corporation, General Motors Overseas Corporation, General Motors Overseas Distribution, General Motors Overseas Distribution LLC, General Motors Peru, General Motors Peru S.A., General Motors Poland Spolka, General Motors Portugal, General Motors Powertrain (Thailand), General Motors Powertrain (Thailand) Limited, General Motors Research Corporation, General Motors South Africa, General Motors South Africa (Pty) Limited, General Motors Suisse, General Motors Taiwan, General Motors Taiwan Ltd., General Motors Technical Centre India, General Motors Technical Centre India Private Limited, General Motors Treasury Center, General Motors Treasury Center LLC, General Motors Turkiye, General Motors UK, General Motors Uruguay, General Motors Uruguay S.A., General Motors Venezolana, General Motors Ventures, General Motors Ventures LLC, General Motors Warehousing and Trading (Shanghai), General Motors Warehousing and Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., General Motors de Argentina, General Motors de Argentina S.r.l., General Motors de Mexico, General Motors de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., General Motors del Ecuador, General Motors del Ecuador S.A., General Motors do Brasil, General Motors do Brasil Ltda., General Motors of Canada, General Motors of Canada Company, General Motors-Holden's Sales, General Motors-Holden's Sales Pty. Limited, GigaPower LLC, Global Services Detroit, Global Services Detroit LLC, Global Tooling Service Company Europe, Global Tooling Service Company Europe Limited, Go Motor Retailing, Go Trade Parts, Grand Pointe Holdings, Grand Pointe Holdings Inc., Grand Pointe Park Condominium, Grand Pointe Park Condominium Association, H.S.H., Haines & Strange, Holden New Zealand, Holden New Zealand Limited, IBC Pension Trustees, IBC Pension Trustees Limited, IBC Vehicles, Lease Ownership Cooperative, Lease Ownership Cooperative LLC, Lidlington Engineering Company, Lidlington Engineering Company Ltd., Limited Liability Company "General Motors CIS", Master Lease Germany, Maven Drive, Maven Drive LLC, Millbrook Pension Management, Millbrook Pension Management Limited, Monetization of Carve-Out, Monetization of Carve-Out LLC, Motor Repris Automocio, Motors Holding, Motors Holding LLC, Motors Properties, Motors Properties (Trading), Multi-Use Lease Entity Trust, North American New Cars, North American New Cars LLC, Omnibus BB Transportes, Omnibus BB Transportes S. A., OnStar Connected Services Srl, OnStar Egypt Limited LLC, OnStar Europe, OnStar Europe Ltd., OnStar Global Services, OnStar Global Services Corporation, OnStar LLC, OnStar de Mexico, OnStar de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Opel Bank, Opel Danmark, Opel Group, Opel Group Warehousing, Opel Leasing, Opel Norge, Opel Sonderdienste, Opel Southeast Europe, Opel Sverige, Opel Szentgotthard Automotive Manufacturing, Opel Wien, P.T. G M AutoWorld Indonesia, P.T. General Motors Indonesia, PIMS, PIMS Co., PT. General Motors Indonesia Manufacturing, Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center, Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center Company Ltd., Prestadora de Servicios GMF Colombia S.A.S., Rapid Motor Vehicle Company, Reliance Motor Car Company, Riverfront Holdings III Inc., Riverfront Holdings Inc., Riverfront Holdings Phase II Inc., SAIC GM (Shenyang) Norsom Motors Co. Ltd., SAIC GM Dong Yue Motors Company Limited, SAIC GM Dong Yue Powertrain Company Limited, SAIC GM Wuling Automobile Company Limited, SAIC General Motors Corporation Limited, SAIC General Motors Investment Limited, SAIC General Motors Sales Company Limited, SAIC-GMAC Automotive Finance Company Limited, SAIC-GMF Leasing Co. Ltd., Servicios GMAC S.A. de C.V., Shanghai Chengxin Used Car Operation and Management Company Limited, Shanghai OnStar Telematics Co. Ltd., Sherwoods (Darlington) Limited, Sidecar Technologies, Skurrays Limited, Stam-Terberg Autobedrijven B. V., Strobe Inc., VHC Sub-Holdings (UK), Vauxhall Defined Contribution Pension Plan Trustees Limited, Vehicle Asset Universal Leasing Trust, Vickers (Lakeside) Limited, Vision Motors Limited, WRE, WRE Inc., and Zona Franca Industrial Colmotores SAS.iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF's stock was trading at $36.70 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, EWT shares have increased by 79.0% and is now trading at $65.69.

View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19.By Najiya O, TwoCircles.net

On the 97th anniversary of the Wagon Massacre a group of people joined together at the bus-stand in Tirur in Malappuram. They spoke, sang, drew and acted in commemoration of the brutal massacre of more than 60 people in a train wagon which took place during the Malabar Struggle of 1921. The programme was organised by the Cultural Platform Tirur, a small group of youth in and around the town. This act also became a protest against the railway authorities who erased the painting depicting the Wagon Massacre from the Tirur Railway Station.

The programme was inaugurated by artist Prem Kumar who had done a painting of the Wagon Massacre on the wall of the Tirur Railway Station, which was erased by the authorities on November 5 reportedly following protests from the Sangh teams. If one painting is erased, it will be remembered in the minds of lakhs of people at least a hundred times, said Prem Kumar to the great applause of the audience. He inaugurated the programme by drawing a picture commemorating the brutal massacre, along with artist Harsha.

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Activists Anoop V.R, Shakkir Changaramkulam (Welfare Party of India), Sudeep Ben, Nasar Malik, Raees Hidaya, Asma Nasreen Melethil, Dr. Jowhar Lal, Adv. Faisal Babu, Dr. V. Hikmatullah, Najeeb Kuttippuram, K.K. Baburaj and others spoke at the programme. Nasar Malik sang a song, and Hafsath Annara (teacher) recited a poem. The programme ended by the solo performance of Nasrullah Vazhakkad.

Prem Kumar had painted a picture of the Wagon Massacre on a wall in the Tirur Railway Station on November 4, as part of the countrywide process of beautification of railway stations. Four people spent six days to complete the painting of the historical incident. But it was erased on the next day itself, reportedly because of complaints from the Sangh groups, on the pretext that the painting was frightening. The artist was entrusted to do the painting by the railway authorities themselves, but the Palakkad Railway Division authorities later ordered to remove the painting following complaints.

It has been 97 years since the brutal massacre. Around 100 people were forced into a freight wagon, without any ventilation, from the Tirur Railway Station at 7 pm on November 17, 1921. They were to be transported to the jail in Bellary in that wagon which could hardly contain 50 people. The people began to cry and scream without getting even air to breathe, but the British army refused to open the bogey until reaching Pothanur near Coimbatore. When the wagon was opened, they saw the horrible sight of people lying dead or unconscious, having suffocated thus and attacked each other for want of air and water. It is said that the station master at Pothanur fainted seeing the deadly sight. Those alive were shifted to a hospital nearby and the dead bodies were sent back to Tirur. 64 people were found dead in the wagon  `60 Muslims and four Hindus from the lower caste of Thiyya. 6 people who were hospitalized also died, bringing the toll to 70, as quoted in the book Anglo-Mappila Yuddham (Anglo-Mappila war) by AK Kodoor.

The brutal massacre in the wagon, named Wagon Tragedy in history, took place during the Malabar Struggle in 1921. The people of Malabar began to fight against the British as part of the Congress-Khilafat Movement, but soon it began to move in its own way against the brutalities of the British. The suffering people of Malabar rose up in arms against the Empire and ousted the British rule in several parts. The rule of the British Empire, said to be the empire where the sun never set, was suspended for about six months in Malabar. It was the first ever defeat of the British anywhere in the colonial world. The Empire decided to teach Malabar a lesson. Martial Law was imposed in Malabar in August of 1921, and several regiments of the British armed forces began their brutal rule, violating all human rights. Those who opposed the British, who were mostly Mappila Muslims and lower caste people, were killed, jailed or exiled to the Andaman Islands. Even women and children were not spared of the cruelties. Finally, the leaders of the Struggle were arrested and sentenced to death. While Ali Musliyar is said to have died just before he was to be hanged to death in Coimbatore prison, Variyamkunnath Kunjahammed Haji was shot to death in Malappuram prison in January 1922.Imperial Oil Limited explores for, produces, and sells crude oil and natural gas in Canada. It operates through three segments: Upstream, Downstream, and Chemical. The Upstream segment explores for and produces crude oil, natural gas, synthetic oil, and bitumen. As of December 31, 2020, this segment had 138 million oil-equivalent barrels of proved undeveloped reserves. The Downstream segment is involved in the transportation and refining of crude oil, as well as blending, distribution, and marketing of refined products. It also transports crude oil to refineries by contracted pipelines, common carrier pipelines, and rail; maintains a distribution system to move petroleum products to market by pipeline, tanker, rail, and road transport; and owns and operates fuel terminals, natural gas liquids, and products pipelines in Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario. In addition, this segment markets and supplies petroleum products to motoring public through approximately 2,400 Esso and Mobil-branded sites. Further, it sells petroleum products, including fuel, asphalt, and lubricants for industrial and transportation customers, independent marketers, and resellers, as well as other refiners serving the agriculture, residential heating, and commercial markets through branded fuel and lubricant resellers. The Chemical segment manufactures and markets various petrochemicals and polyethylene, such as benzene, aromatic, and aliphatic solvents; plasticizer intermediates; and polyethylene resins. The company was incorporation in 1880 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Imperial Oil Limited is a subsidiary of Exxon Mobil Corporation.

Read MoreFortis Inc. operates as an electric and gas utility company in Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean countries. It generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to approximately 433,000 retail customers in southeastern Arizona; and 98,000 retail customers in Arizona's Mohave and Santa Cruz counties with an aggregate capacity of 3,233 megawatts (MW), including 59 MW of solar capacity. The company also sells wholesale electricity to other entities in the western United States; owns gas-fired and hydroelectric generating capacity totaling 65 MW; and distributes natural gas to approximately 1,048,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in British Columbia, Canada. In addition, it owns and operates the electricity distribution system that serves approximately 572,000 customers in southern and central Alberta; owns 4 hydroelectric generating facilities with a combined capacity of 225 MW; and provides operation, maintenance, and management services to five hydroelectric generating facilities. Further, the company distributes electricity in the island portion of Newfoundland and Labrador with an installed generating capacity of 143 MW; and on Prince Edward Island with a generating capacity of 130 MW. Additionally, it provides integrated electric utility service to approximately 67,000 customers in Ontario; approximately 270,000 customers in Newfoundland and Labrador; approximately 31,000 customers on Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; and approximately 15,000 customers on certain islands in Turks and Caicos. The company also holds long-term contracted generation assets in Belize consisting of 3 hydroelectric generating facilities with a combined capacity of 51 MW; and the Aitken Creek natural gas storage facility. It also owns and operates approximately 91,000 circuit Kilometers (km) of distribution lines; and approximately 49,500 km of natural gas pipelines. Fortis Inc. was founded in 1885 and is headquartered in St. John's, Canada.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of Textron: AAI Corporation, AAI Services Corporation, ALSTOM Gears, Able Aerospace, Able Aerospace Services Inc., Able Engineering & Component Services, Aeronautical Accessories LLC, Airborne Tactical Advantage Company LLC, Arctic Cat, Arctic Cat ACE Holding GmbH, Arctic Cat France SARL, Arctic Cat GmbH, Arctic Cat Inc., Arctic Cat Production LLC, Arctic Cat Production Support LLC, Arctic Cat Sales Inc., Arctic Cat Shared Services LLC, Arctic Cat UK Ltd., Arkansas Aerospace Inc., Avco Corporation, Aviation Service servis letal doo Ljubljana, Aylesbury Automation, B/K Navigational Equipment sro, Beech Aircraft Corporation, Beech Holdings, Beechcraft Defense Support Holding LLC, Beechcraft Domestic Service Company, Beechcraft Germany GmbH, Beechcraft International Holding LLC, Beechcraft International Service Company, Beechcraft New Zealand, Beechcraft Service Company UK Limited, Bell Helicopter GK, Bell Helicopter KK, Bell Textron Asia (Pte.) Ltd., Bell Textron Canada International Inc., Bell Textron Canada Limited/Limitee, Bell Textron Inc., Bell Textron Korea Inc., Bell Textron Miami Inc, Bell Textron Prague a.s., Bell Textron Rhode Island Inc., Bell Textron Services Inc, Bell Textron Supply Center BV, Bell Textron Technical Services Inc., Benzlers, Brazaco Mapri Industrias, Burkland, Cessna Aircraft Company, Cessna Citation European Service Center SAS, Cessna Dusseldorf Citation Service Center GmbH, Cessna Finance Corporation, Cessna Finance Export Corporation, Cessna Mexico S de RL de CV, Cessna Spanish Citation Service Center SLU, Cessna Zurich Citation Service Center GmbH, Citation Parts Distribution International Inc., Cushman Inc., Datacom Technologies, David Brown Group, Doncaster Citation Service Centre Limited, E-Z-GO Canada Limited, Energy Manufacturing, Flexalloy, HBC LLC, Hawker Beech de Mexico S de RL de CV, Hawker Beechcraft Argentina SA, Howe & Howe Inc., Howe and Howe Technologies, Industrial Technology Inc., InteSys Technologies, International Product Support Inc., KSB Annecy SAS, Kautex (Changchun) Plastics Technology Co. Ltd., Kautex (Chongqing) Plastic Technology Co. Ltd., Kautex (Guangzhou) Plastic Technology Co. Ltd., Kautex (Pinghu) Plastic Technology Co. Ltd., Kautex (Shanghai) Plastic Technology Co. Ltd., Kautex (Wuhan) Plastic Technology Co. Ltd., Kautex Corporation, Kautex Craiova srl, Kautex Germany Holding GmbH, Kautex Inc., Kautex Japan KK, Kautex Shanghai GmbH, Kautex Textron (UK) Limited, Kautex Textron Benelux BVBA, Kautex Textron Bohemia spol sro, Kautex Textron CVS Limited, Kautex Textron GmbH & Co. KG, Kautex Textron Iberica SL, Kautex Textron Italia Srl, Kautex Textron Management Services Company de Puebla S. de RL de CV, Kautex Textron Portugal  Produtos Plasticos Sociedade Unipessoal Lda., Kautex Textron de Mexico S de RL de CV, Kautex Textron do Brasil Ltda., Kautex of Georgia Inc., Kaywood Products Corp., Klauke, LCI Corporation International, LLC Textron RUS, Maag, McCord Corporation, Mechtronix, Medical Numerics Inc., Midland Industrial Plastics, MillenWorks, MillenWorks Themed Technologies, MotorFist LLC, OPINICUS Simulation and Training Services LLC, OmniQuip International, Opinicus, Optical Boring Co., Opto-Electronics, Opto-Electronics Inc., Overwatch Systems Ltd., PEINER Umformtechnik, Pirelli Tyres - General Rubber Goods (GRG) division, Premiair Aviation Maintenance Pty Ltd, Progressive Electronics, Ransomes, Ransomes Inc., Ransomes Investment LLC, Ransomes Jacobsen France SAS, Ransomes Jacobsen Limited, Ransomes Limited, Ransomes Pensions Trustee Company Limited, Replacement Part Solutions LLC, Response Technologies LLC, Rotor Blades Limited, Sukosim Verbindungselemente, TRU Simulation & Training Spain SL, TRU Simulation + Training Inc., TRU Simulation + Training LLC, TekGPS Engineering Srl, Textron Airland LLC, Textron Atlantic LLC, Textron Aviation Australia Pty. Ltd., Textron Aviation Canada Ltd., Textron Aviation Defense LLC, Textron Aviation Finance Corporation, Textron Aviation Inc., Textron Aviation Prague Service Center sro, Textron Aviation Rhode Island Inc., Textron Aviation Services de Mexico S de RL de CV, Textron Capital BV, Textron Communications Inc., Textron Far East Pte. Ltd., Textron Finance Holding Company, Textron Financial Corporation, Textron Financial Corporation Receivables Trust 2002-CP-2, Textron Fluid and Power Inc., Textron France Holding SAS, Textron France SAS, Textron Global Services Inc., Textron Ground Support Equipment Inc., Textron Ground Support Equipment UK Limited, Textron IPMP Inc., Textron India Private Limited, Textron Innovations Inc., Textron International Inc., Textron International Mexico S de RL de CV, Textron Limited, Textron Management Services Inc., Textron Motors GmbH, Textron Motors North America Inc., Textron Outdoor Power Equipment Inc., Textron Realty Corporation, Textron Shared Service Centre (Canada) Inc., Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc., Textron Sweden AB, Textron Systems Australia Holding Pty Ltd, Textron Systems Australia Pty Ltd, Textron Systems Canada Inc., Textron Systems Corporation, Textron Systems Electronic Systems UK (Holdings) Limited, Textron Systems Electronic Systems UK Limited, Textron Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Textron UK Pension Trustee Limited, Textron Verwaltungs-GmbH, Turbine Engine Components Textron (Newington Operations) Inc., United Industrial Corporation, Westminster Insurance Company, Williams Machine & Tool, Wuxi Textron Specialized Vehicles Co. Ltd., and Zhenjiang Bell Textron Aviation Services Limited.by Matthew Terelle | Bengals Correspondent | Sun, Dec 2nd 10:02pm EST

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tyler Boyd caught six of eight targets for 97 yards in his team's 24-10 loss to the Broncos in Week 13.

Fantasy Impact:

Boyd benefitted after A.J. Green departed during the first half with a foot injury. The third-year wideout has turned in an impressive breakout season. With 69 catches now, Boyd has an outside shot at the first 100-catch campaign of his career. He will take on the Chargers in Week 14.LONDON, Ohio  Ag-Pro, Ohio, a subsidiary of Ag-Pro Companies has purchased Ohio-based JD Equipment, adding the dealerships 10 John Deere locations in Ohio and northern Kentucky.

Ag-Pro has been aggressively adding dealerships and stores, and its stable of 71 locations is up from just 49 in October 2017. The company, which says it is the largest privately held John Deere dealer in the U.S., has primarily been focused in the South, with locations in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas.

The acquisition of JD Equipment will be first expansion in the Midwest for Ag-Pro, which has annual sales of over $800 million.

In a letter to customers, JD Equipment CEO Jeffrey Mitchell and President Don Mitchell said the choice to sell the company was not an easy decision.

However, the sale of JD Equipment was the right decision for our employees and our customers, in order for the dealership to remain competitive and continue serving its employees, its customers and its communities long into the future.

The anticipated transfer date is Dec. 12, 2018.A farmer who lives in the Scottish Highlands has had 80 of his sheep stolen by livestock rustlers, valued at around 4,400.

Police Scotland are appealing for information following the theft from a croft in the Nethy Bridge area.

Around 80 sheep, with an approximate value of around 4,400, were reported to have been stolen from land off Lettoch Road sometime between August 31 and Saturday, November 24 when the theft was reported.

The sheep, which are of various breeds, have identification chips in their ear tags, some of which are marked with the number UK548348.

Constable Clare Maclennan said: We appreciate that is a considerable time period but we are asking people to think back and report any activity in the area which could be considered suspicious to us and report any suspicious activity including unfamiliar vehicles with animal trailers in the area.

We would be particularly interested in any activity involving unfamiliar vehicles with animal trailers in the area.

The incident follows news of rustlers stealing over 270 sheep near Bridgwater, Somerset in what the police called a huge loss for the farmer.

Anyone who has seen any suspicious activity in the area or who has any information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting NM3247/18. You can also contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.A national programme aiming to eradicate bovine virus diarrhea (BVD) from the Welsh national herd has reached 7,000 of the 11,000 herds in Wales.

BVD is a highly contagious disease in cattle that causes immunosuppression and reproductive failure.

The disease can reduce fertility, increase incidences of abortion and cause pneumonia in affected stock, creating drastic, long-lasting personal and financial effects on all affected farms.

The Gwaredu BVD, a 10 million three year voluntary screening programme, has announced positive progress in battling the disease.

It is available to all Welsh cattle farms, and is managed by Coleg Sir Gars Agriculture Research Centre in partnership with the Royal Veterinary College.

BVD screening is undertaken at the same time as TB testing to provide the necessary support and guidance to ensure farmers can correctly and quickly identify herds infected with BVD.

Support is also be available to find the persistently infected (PI) animals from infected herds.

John Griffiths, manager of the Agriculture Research Centre at Coleg Sir Gars Gelli Aur campus, said: Were announcing that 7,000 of the 11,000 cattle herds in Wales have now been screened, and were really proud of this achievement, as we aim to eradicate the disease from Wales.

Farmers are now much more aware of the implications of the disease, and have discovered just how quick and easy it is to get screened. Working together with farmers and vets we can beat BVD.

Financial consequences

The welfare and financial consequences of the disease are significant, with an approximate cost of 4,500 per year for the average beef herd, and 15,000 for dairy herds as a result of poor fertility, reduced milk yields, low daily live weight gains, fever, diarrhoea and respiratory problems.

Screening is free, and the programme also provides up to 500 for livestock farmers to work with their vet.

However, this funding will run out in 2020 when testing is likely to be compulsory, so a new campaign is being launched to reach farmers to help put a stop the disease spreading.

Eradicating BVD is a priority of the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group, and is funded by the Welsh Governments Rural Development Programme.Countryside campaigners are calling for a radical rethink of farming practices and development in order to help regenerate the precious commodity that is soil.

A combination of industrial farming practices, poor land management and damage from development has created a perfect storm that has resulted in soil erosion, compaction and a loss of soils fertility.

That's according to the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE), who say this degradation of soil costs around 1.2 billion a year in England and Wales alone.

The plea comes as the UN's World Soil Day gets underway on Wednesday (5 December), with UK campaigners rallying for a recognition of the importance of soil and its impact on climate, environment and society.

The CPRE's new report, published on Monday (3 December), sets out ways to restore soil and new approaches to policy.

'Decades of neglect'

The report highlights that common farming techniques, such as inversion ploughing, as well as overgrazing and compaction from heavy machinery, has led to almost 3 million tonnes of topsoil being eroded every year across the UK.

These forms of soil degradation have left an area of farmland the size of Yorkshire at risk of further erosion, which is more than one third of all of the UKs arable land, the campaigners warn.

Graeme Willis, senior rural policy campaigner at the CPRE, said: For far too long we have been ignoring the fragility of such a precious commodity. Only now is the Government starting address the damage decades of neglect has caused.

Ensuring our soils are healthy is crucial if we are to effectively tackle climate change  or mitigate its worst effects.

New agriculture policy must promote measures that support farmers to sustainably manage, protect and regenerate soils, and drive carbon from the atmosphere back into the ground, he said.

'Over-development'

Damage from development is also a major threat to health of Englands soils, according to the report.

Based on current annual rates of land lost to development, CPRE warns that 1,580km2 of farmland  an area the size of Greater London  will be lost within a decade.

In addition to killing soil by sealing it with concrete or tarmac, development projects also excavate tens of millions of tonnes of soil every year, much of which is treated as waste.

The most recent data highlighted in the report shows that in 2014, in the UK, more than 20 million tonnes of soil was sent to landfill  equivalent to the weight of more than 400 Titanics  and that almost half (45%) of all waste buried in the same year was soil.

'Limit global temperature'

CPRE warns that, in order to effectively address climate change and limit global temperature rises to 1.5C in the timeframes set out by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), urgent action is needed to halt the degradation and loss of UK soil.

In the UK, soil stores roughly 10 billion tonnes of carbon  the equivalent of 70 years of annual UK greenhouse gas emissions.

However, degradation has led to most arable soils having already lost 40-60% of their organic carbon.

Preventing the loss of greenhouse gases from soils and rebuilding their carbon stores means that improved farming practices and land use will be crucial in the UK's attempt to limit the effects of climate change, the report highlights.

If properly managed, soils could help to reduce the flooding and erosion that more frequent extreme weather could bring.

However, if continued to be managed badly, soils will lack the resilience to cope with storms or drought, CPRE fears.

Five solutions

The report sets out five solutions that would reduce the degradation and loss of soil, and help to regenerate them through sustainable management.

The first four relate to farming practice and the last to how policy might reduce damage to soils from development.

Soil sensitive farming such as conservation agriculture, agroforestry, pasture-based livestock farming and farming on rewetted peatlands, if scaled up, would help, the report says.

CPRE suggests specific policy measures that could support the scaling-up of these approaches, such as ensuring the new Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme is properly funded and incentivises farmers by rewarding them for protecting and regenerating soils.

The NFU has said that if the Government is to deliver a Green Brexit then such schemes must encourage productivity and build resilience in businesses, as current direct payments play a huge role in underpinning farming businesses.A Lincolnshire-based company which is one of the UKs largest egg producers has been named Rural Business of the Year at the annual Amazon Growing Business Awards.

LJ Fairburn & Son was crowned the winner of its category at a ceremony in London after competing against companies from across the UK for the top prize.

Fairburn's started farming in Alford in 1951 with just 150 chickens which Leslie James Fairburn bought for 150.

It is now one of the largest independent egg producers and packers in the UK, supplying 17 million eggs each week to seven retailers.

Sixteen other businesses from across the country were recognised for their successes in a range of different categories.

The Amazon Growing Business Awards celebrates UK SME businesses.

Sarah Fairburn, from LJ Fairburn & Son, said: Being rural-based is not only crucial to our business, but part of our family heritage, and with the development of technology we are now connected to businesses and customers all over the country.

Doug Gurr, UK Country Manager at Amazon added: Businesses like LJ Fairburn & Son are the lifeblood of the UK economy and a true inspiration to others, so its great to see them recognised for their incredible entrepreneurship, creativity and innovative spirit at the awards.

This years winning businesses come from a range of industries including design, manufacturing, travel, healthcare and retail.

They join a list of businesses who have gone on to further successes after competing in the Amazon Growing Business Awards. Companies like Revolut, Go Ape, Innocent Drinks, Betfair and Fever-Tree have become household names.The possibility of scrapping more than 200 key EU laws could put food and farming at risk, according to a think-tank.

Both a no-deal Brexit and a free trade agreement along Canadian lines would significantly weaken safeguards for UK environmental, food and farming protection, the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) says in its new report.

Either of what may be the two most likely Brexit outcomes would also reduce current cooperation with the EU on environment and climate change, with no-deal particularly likely to impact the UKs involvement.

Although the UK could continue to adopt equally stringent  or stronger  environmental safeguards, the IPPR, which did not take a position in the 2016 referendum, finds there is a risk that the opportunity to diverge could lead to lesser protections.

EU legislation covering environmental policy, energy, climate change, food and farming, contained within more than 200 directives and other laws, could be weakened.

These include laws that govern clean air and water; set standards for fuel quality and renewable energy targets; key aspects of the Common Agricultural Policy, aimed at environmentally-friendly farming.

Four scenarios

In total, IPPR analysed four possible scenarios for the UKs departure from the EU: a single market and customs union; a customs union plus; a free trade agreement; and exit with no deal.

Scenario 1 - remaining within a single market and customs union  would ensure the greatest continued alignment between British and EU laws on environmental protection, the report concludes. There would be continued supranational enforcement and the UK would be required to match EU laws as they develop in future.

Scenario 2, a customs union with many EU laws adopted to reduce friction in trade, would also be likely to require regulatory alignment on much environment and climate legislation, but there is a risk of weaker monitoring and enforcement.

Scenario 3, a free trade agreement, would be likely to result in the UK (except for Northern Ireland) leaving the internal energy market and the Emissions Trading System. The EU would expect Great Britain to agree a non-regression clause to prevent backsliding on environmental standards, but these would be relatively weakly enforced and the UK need not follow suit if EU protections become tighter.

Scenario 4  no deal  would leave Britain free to strengthen or dilute current environmental protections as it chooses, with no EU involvement, and would end other forms of UK-EU cooperation on the environment and climate change.

The report highlights how the UKs current environmental and climate policy framework is underpinned by a swathe of EU legislation and governance structures.German supermodel Claudia Schiffer has been warned by police after her dog reportedly killed a pregnant sheep and mauled two others.

Northamptonshire police were called to a farm in Culworth where it's believed they found the supermodel's German Shepherd covered in blood.

The pregnant ewe had to be put down following severe injuries to the neck, The Sun reports.

It is believed to be the fourth incident where her dogs have been out-of-control near livestock and other people's dogs.

Following the latest incident, which happened on 14 November, the 48-year-old has reportedly agreed to a voluntary control order issued by police.

This means she must secure her property so her dog doesn't escape.

Culworth residents told the media that the farmer faces 3,000 vet fees following the attack.

The incident follows news of a man being sentenced to just 80 hours of community service after his dogs attacked sheep, leading the farming industry to call for harsher penalties.

And earlier this year, NFU Deputy President Guy Smith told a Parliamentary committee that attacks on livestock can disrupt decades of careful breeding and is often extremely difficult for a farm to recover from.

Rural insurer NFU Mutual recently revealed that the cost of claims related to livestock worrying has reached a record level of 1.6 million across the UK.

The figures follow the release of a report by the All Party Parliamentary Animal Welfare Group which shows more than 1,800 farm animals have been killed by dog attacks in the space of four years.Category Select Category Apparel/Garments Textiles Fashion Technical Textiles Information Technology E-commerce Retail Corporate Association Press Release

SubCategory Select Sub-CategorySonali Bendre returns to India after Cancer Treatment, spotted at Mumbai airport; Watch | FilmiBeat

Sonali Bendre who had been undergoing cancer treatment in New York is now back in Mumbai. The actress was recently spotted with her hubby Goldie Behl in the city. Ever since Sonali was diagnosed with high-grade cancer, she has been posting inspiring posts aboout her battle with the illness.

Earlier, Sonali wrote a short heartfelt note about how she is looking forward to embrace a normal life which awaits her in India. In an Instagram page, Sonali had written, "They say "Distance makes the heart grow fonder". It sure does. But let's never underestimate what distance teaches you.

Being away from home in the city of New York, I realized I was walking amongst so many stories. Each trying to write their own chapter in different ways. Each struggling to do it but never giving up. Each taking it #OneDayAtATime.

And now I'm on my way back to where my heart is. It's a feeling I can't describe in words but I'm going to try - it's the joy to see my family and friends again, the excitement to do what I love and mainly the gratitude for the journey I've had up until this moment. The fight is not yet over...but I'm happy and looking forward to this happy interval :)

It's time to learn that there is a new normal out there and I can't to embrace it. And as my adventure with life continues these words by Chris Martin hit home, "Everything you want is a dream away. Under this pressure, under this weight We are diamonds taking shape..."

Meanwhile, her friends and colleagues from the industry can't wait to welcome her back in the city. Farah Khan commented, "Come home soon. Rushing to buy fish for you," while Sussanne Khan, wrote "Can't wait to see you my warrior princess. Love you too much." Abhishek Bachchan gave a virtual hug to her, on the other hand, Twinkle Khanna sent out kisses.Simmba Trailer: Deepika Padukone's reaction on Ranveer Singh's film trailer; Watch video | FilmiBeat

Just a few hours back, Rohit Shetty & Co. dropped the first official trailer of Ranveer Singh-Sara Ali Khan starrer Simmba. The masala entertainer has Ranveer Singh playing a cop for the first time and the actor nails the act with his dialoguebaazi and action-packed avatar.

Simmba Trailer: Ranveer Singh Packs A Punch With His Dialoguebaazi; Ajay Devgn's Cameo Is Lit

While the trailer of Simmba has been receiving love from all nooks and corners, people are curious to know how his better half, Deepika Padukone reacted after watching the video. Well folks, you won't be disappointed because we have got an answer to that.

At the trailer launch of Simmba, when Ranveer was quizzed about Deepika's reaction to the movie's trailer, the actor quipped, "On my birthday Deepika saw rushes but she never reacts but after watching trailer she just turned and said you look hot." Well, Ranveer's candid confession is super cute!

Ranveer and Deepika tied the knot at Lake Como in Italy on 14th-15th November. Since then, the newlyweds are in celebration mood and having been sharing their happiness with their near and dear ones.

Deepika Padukone-Ranveer Singh's Bollywood Party: The Couple Redefine Hotness In The First Pics

The couple first hosted a wedding reception in Bengaluru for their families and close friends on 21st November. This was followed by a wedding party hosted by Ranveer's sister Ritika on 24th November. Ranveer and Deepika hosted one more wedding reception in Mumbai for their close friends and selected media fraternity. Lastly, a lavish party for B-town celebs was held on 1st December where the whose' who of the industry let their hair down and had a blast.

Coming back to Simmba, the film stars Sara Ali Khan as Ranveer Singh's love interest and Sonu Sood as the main antagonist. The film is slated to hit the theatrical screens on 28th November, 2018.On Saturday (December 1, 2018) Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas exchanged wedding vows in a Christian ceremony in Jodhpur and people from the actor's hometown Bareilly celebrated the occasion with sweets and fireworks.

Parameshwar Rai Pandey, who is the caretaker of the ancestral house of Priyanka in Bareilly said, "Despite not getting any invitation of their bitiyaa's marriage, people of the city illuminated their houses with fairy lights and distributed sweets to celebrate the moment on Saturday."

Crackers were burst and people danced to different songs, Pandey added. Priyanka's mother Madhu told PTI, "Through caretaker Parameshwar Pandey, I came to know that people inBareilly are celebrating Priyanka's marriage, and I am proud of the residents."

"No wedding cards for Priyanka-Nick wedding were printed. Only selected persons were invited through phone. We are getting congratulatory messages from people of Bareilly. Owing to busy schedule, I am not able to say thanks. Thanks will be conveyed to all as soon as we get time," she added.

Owner of a chaat shop in Bareilly's Civil Lines, Chaman Kumar said, "To celebrate the wedding of Priyanka, a party has been organised for poor children."

Madhvi Mishra who had taught Priyanka in Army School conveyed her congratulations to the newlyweds. Bareilly mayor Umesh Gautam hosted a cultural programme at a private university to celebrate the occasion.

The city has been the workplace of Priyanka's father Ashok Chopra and mother Madhu. The actor received her initial schooling from Bareilly's Army School. Before shifting to Mumbai, Priyanka's parents used to run Kasturba Hospital in Bareilly.The Majestic Frame

A picture featuring these legends of Indian cinema has been doing the rounds on social media. Going by the reports, this picture was taken during the 25th Year Celebrations of Asianet. In this picture, you could see Mammootty, Mohanlal, Kamal Haasan and Star India Managing Director Madhavan.

The Trio

As mentioned above, it is always a sheer pleasure to see these three legends together in a single frame. Apart from being big superstars, they are fantastic actors who have won a good number of National Film Awards so far.

Earlier Occasions

Even in the past, we have seen these three legends coming together sharing the big stage. One among those occasions was during the 100 Year celebration of Indian cinema celebrated by the Malayalam film industry. This is a click taken during the big occasion.

Kamal Haasan's 50 Years In Cinema

At the same time, the two big superstar's of Malayalam cinema were also present for the celebrations held in the year 2009, in connection with Kamal Haasan completing 50 Years in cinema.

Kamal Haasan

Well, Kamal Haasan is not an alien to Malayalam films and his association with Mollywood dates back to the 1970s. He has also been an active presence in many of the Malayalam film related events. Most recently, he had appeared in the Asianet Film Awards 2018 as a special guest.Mammootty, Mukesh & Others

Mammootty made it a point to attend the wedding reception held in Kochi and wish the couple on the big occasion. In the above picture you could see Mammootty, Harisree Ashokan, Mukesh, Johny and others along with the couple.

Mohanlal, Antony Perumbavoor, Jagadeesh & Others

Mohanlal too was present for the big occasion and convey his wishes to the couple. In the above picture, you could see, Mohanlal, Harisree Ashokan, Antony Perumbavoor, Jagadessh etc., along with the couple.

Arjun Asokan & Nikhitha

For the wedding reception, Arjun Ashokan opted to wear a blue coloured two-piece suit whereas the bride Nikhitha was seen in a specially designed silver coloured gown.

The Friends

Here is another picture of the couple along with the close friends from the film industry. You could see popular actor Asif Ali, director Mridul Nair, actor Balu Varghese etc., in this picture.

Other Celebrities Who Attended The Event

The wedding reception was also attended by other top celebrities of the industry. Young superstar Dulquer Salmaan was present for the big occasion. Popular actors like Jayaram, Kunchacko Boban etc., also attended the event.

Johny Antony With The Couple

Popular film-maker Johny Antony, who has worked with Harisree Ashokan in a good number of films, also attended the wedding reception of Arjun Ashokan and Nikitha.Goldman Sachs said on Monday that Aaron Arth and Iain Drayton will become co-chief operating officers of its investment banking division in Asia excluding Japan, according to a memo seen by FinanceAsia.

Goldmans senior management team has been through a major shakeup in Asia this year as a scandal surrounding the New York-headquartered firms involvement at the Malaysian state investment fund 1MDB has grown.



In their expanded roles, Arth and Drayton will work closely with Todd Leland to drive commercial initiatives. They will continue to maintain their respective product and coverage responsibilities.



Arth heads Goldmans financing group in Asia excluding...This year's China-Pakistan joint international air exercise dubbed Shaheen-VII kicked off at a Pakistan air force base, Times of Islamabad reported on Sunday.

A Chinese J-10C fighter jet takes off from an airport in Shanxi Province, July 7, 2017. [Photo: VCG]

China's Air Force has sent a number of aircraft to take part in the exercise, including several J-10C fighters.

The joint exercises are due to last 24 days.

The J-10C is an improved version of China's J-10 fighter. It is equipped with an Active Electronically Steered Array system (AESA), as well as an opto-electronic detection system to improve combat situations. The J-10C was activated for combat duty in April, 2018.

"The J-10C is more capable of locating targets. The new technology on-board gives it an edge during an air-to-air combat," said Wang Zhiming, a Chinese military specialist. "The J-10C is a significant upgrade to the Chinese Air Force, and significantly improves China's air defenses."

"This year's Shaheen-VII exercise will enhance bilateral military and political ties, and will help enhance the capability of the air forces of the two friendly neighbors," said Commodore Syed Muhammad Ali with the Pakistan Air Force.

Next year's "Shaheen" air exercises, which have been annual events since 2011, will be held in China.European Medicines Agency started to officially review 'Remsima SC'; expecting European approval in the second half of next year

Celltrion, Inc. (KRX:068270) today announced that the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has accepted for review of the Extension Marketing Authorisation Application for 'Remsima SC', the subcutaneous (SC) version of Remsima, the autoimmune disease therapeutic antibody biosimilar of infliximab. An opinion from the EMA's Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) on the Extension Marketing Authorisation Application for Remsima SC is expected in the second half of 2019.

In a bid to secure competitiveness in the TNF-a inhibitor (autoimmune disease therapeutic agent) market through 'twin-track' strategy together with the existing intravenous (IV) formulation of Remsima, Celltrion has developed Remsima SC, the SC version of infliximab. Since May 2016, Celltrion has conducted Phase 1 and Phase 3 clinical trials for the safety, pharmacokinetic and efficacy assessment of Remsima SC.

The development of subcutaneous formulation of Remsima is one of Celltrion's marketing strategies to increase TNF-a inhibitor market share. The subcutaneous formulation allows patients to conveniently inject it by themselves according to the administration cycle, unlike intravenous formulation of Remsima that requires patients to visit hospitals for the administration thereof.

Celltrion expects that the potential users will include patients who are satisfied with the therapeutic effects of infliximab and yet want to be administered with the subcutaneous formulation.

"Celltrion is set to promote its Remsima and Remsima SC as global blockbusters by increasing the Remsima brand share in TNF-a inhibitor market under the strategy of diversifying products with existing IV formulation of Remsima, already sharing 52% of the Europe's original medicine market." says an official from Celltrion. "In addition to these efforts, we will lead the TNF- inhibitor market with upcoming commercialization of the SC formulation of 'CT-P17' as a high-concentration formulation of a proposed adalimumab biosimilar referencing AbbVie's Humira, which is undergoing clinical trials."

About Celltrion, Inc.

Headquartered in Incheon, Korea, Celltrion is a leading biopharmaceutical company, specializing in research, development and manufacturing of biosimilar and innovative drugs. Celltrion strives to provide more affordable biosimilar mAbs to patients who previously had limited access to advanced therapeutics. Celltrion received FDA and EC's approval for Inflectra and Remsima, respectively, which is the world's first mAb biosimilar to receive approval from a regulatory agency in a developed country. For more information, visit www.celltrion.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181202005083/en/

Contacts:

Celltrion, Inc.

IR Contacts:

Josh Hwang, +82 32 850 5171 Josh.hwang@celltrion.com

PR Contacts:

Gunn Lee, +82 32 850 5168 Gunhyuk.lee@celltrion.com

Heewon Park, +82 32 850 5356 Heewon.park@celltrion.comLONDON, December 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

A new clinical study has shown that Dynamic Optical Coherence Tomography imaging of melanomas (D-OCT) reveals changes to the blood vessels that correlate with the depth of invasion of the melanoma. Researchers believe this could lead to a new faster method of rapidly assessing how dangerous a given melanoma is.

(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/791553/Michelson_Diagnostics_early_stage_melanoma.jpg )



(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/791552/Michelson_Diagnostics_advanced_melanoma.jpg )



A more rapid assessment of the risk would potentially allow patients with more serious invasive disease access to the right treatment more directly, doing away with delays inherent in the traditional diagnosis.

The technique may also lead to reducing the number of patients with less aggressive tumours receiving sentinel lymph node biopsies, an expensive in-patient procedure which sometimes results in unpleasant long-term side-effects.

The clinical study was published in the November issue of Experimental Dermatology and looked at the blood vessel shapes in OCT images of 127 melanomas at a variety of states of disease progression, collected at four leading European dermatology groups (University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, General Hospital Augsburg, University of Copenhagen and Collegium Medicum Berlin). The device used was Michelson Diagnostics' VivoSight OCT scanner which has regulatory clearance in Europe, USA and Australia for clinical use imaging skin. It was equipped with Dynamic OCT software that detects and displays the tiny blood vessels in the skin and the tumour.

Lead author Dr Nathalie de Carvalho (University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy) explained:

"Cancers grow their own blood vessel network to supply oxygen and nutrients. We analysed the shapes of the vessels in the OCT images of melanomas and correlated the frequency of different shapes with the Breslow depths (the thickness of the tumours, measured from biopsy samples). We found that certain vessel shapes appeared much more frequently in thicker tumours. The vessels grown by the tumour seem to grow more chaotically and become more malformed as the cancer progresses."

The Breslow depth is already used to assess the progress of the disease from early stages to serious metastatic disease, but it takes time for the biopsy results to come back from the laboratory. This new imaging approach may provide a short-cut to more quickly identify advanced metastatic melanomas so that patients can be fast-tracked to the right treatment.

Professor Julia Welzel (General Hospital Augsburg, Germany) said: "Our goal with this work is to help develop a faster, more efficient and less invasive diagnostic and treatment pathway for melanoma. Patients with advanced disease should get aggressive treatment as quickly as possible; also those with early-stage melanomas should not have to undergo expensive invasive Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy operations if their melanoma is reliably confirmed as very low-risk. We believe Dynamic OCT imaging could help with these goals and the results of this study are very encouraging. The next stage of our work is to analyse the link between vessel shapes and the actual degree of metastasis of the melanomas in a larger cohort, and not just the Breslow depth."

Jon Holmes, CEO of Michelson Diagnostics, said: "This very exciting result shows for the first time that VivoSight OCT imaging may have a powerful future role in the clinical pathway for melanoma."

Please find full paper here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/exd.13783



De Carvalho N, Welzel J, Schuh S, Themstrup L, Ulrich M, Jemec GB, Holmes J, Kaleci S, Chester J, Bigi L, Ciardo S. The vascular morphology of melanoma is related to Breslow index: an in vivo study with dynamic optical coherence tomography. Experimental dermatology. 2018 Sep 15.

For more About Michelson Diagnostics' VivoSight OCT scanner go tohttp://www.vivosight.com

Contact Details:

In the UK and rest of world:

Michelson Diagnostics:

e: info@vivosight.com

t: +44(0)20-8308-1695



In USA:

e: info.us@vivosight.com

t: +1(408)504-7391

RANK provides Swisscom with real-time threat detection, hunting and integration capabilities

LONDON, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RANK Software today announced that Swisscom, Switzerland's leading telecoms company, is expanding its relationship with RANK. After working together for several years, Swisscom has signed a new three-year agreement to use RANK Software's Virtual Advisor to Security Analysts (VASA) AI-based threat detection platform to provide real-time threat hunting capabilities throughout its internal network across its business.



As a major telecommunications provider in Switzerland, Swisscom network traffic exceeds 1 billion events per day. RANK software helps the SOC analysts at Swisscom to assess and investigate cyber security events, allowing them to zero in on the most credible threats. As a result of using VASA by RANK software, Swisscom's security team is able to become more productive and increase the number of alerts resolved per analyst hour.

"With VASA, Swisscom has been able to stay ahead of attacks, leveraging RANK's flexible and powerful data ingestion capabilities, network analysis and unmatched hunting capabilities," said Markus Neis, Threat Intelligence Manager at Swisscom.

"Swisscom is not alone in their growing need to extend their threat-hunting capabilities. Companies around the world tell us that they worry about the inefficiencies of sifting through tens of millions of security events each year, wasting time, money, and increasing the chance that a credible threat will slip through the cracks," said Rick Costanzo, CEO, RANK Software.

VASA helps identify and prevent security threats in real-time by ingesting data from network sources and identifying anomalies for security analysts to review. VASA addresses the challenges of identifying internal and unknown threats commonly missed today by perimeter defense systems through:

Active Learning. RANK Software helps reduce the false positives generated by most AI tools by recoding analyst feedback and allowing them to apply an action to similar alerts. This makes the VASA platform smarter over time allowing security analysts to become more efficient.



Enterprise Scale. RANK Software ingests data from over 40 sources out of the box including System Network Traffic and End Point log files. It is capable of handling more than 1 billion events a day at 10+ gigabits per second.



Contextualization. RANK Software builds on the results of AI, machine learning, and behavioral analytics by making the data more consumable and understanding risk thresholds based on context. This helps assemble and interpret the signals needed to hunt and assess threats faster and with high precision.



Flexible Architecture.On the cloud or on-premise, RANK Software provides unparalleled context and visibility into potential breaches.

About RANK Software

RANK Software is a leader in security intelligence and analytics. The company's first product, VASA, is an AI-based threat detection platform that helps enterprises identify and analyze cybersecurity threats in real time, allowing them to take a proactive security posture in the rapidly changing cyber threat landscape. For more information, please visit www.ranksoftwareinc.com .

Media Contact

Jeff Gadway

Galvanize Worldwide

jeff@galvanizeworldwide.com

519-500-1035-CBD E-Commerce Site Completes Beta Testing and is on Schedule for 12-13-2018 Launch

DEL MAR, CA / ACCESSWIRE / December 3, 2018 / American Diversified Holdings Corporation (OTC PINK: ADHC) announced today that it has completed a new website detailing all the essential information on the company's non-opioid migraine management bio-device product AURACIS tm. Shareholders, investors, and other interested parties can log on to www.AURACISMIGRAINE.com.

ADHC has licensed the patented technology from Brazos Biomedical and has retained the Brazos scientific staff to assist in the development of the device.

As previously reported ADCH has revised its Projected Cost to Complete Auracis tm (Tens) Migraine Therapy. The cost of Engineering and Development over a 2-year time frame has been reduced by $500,000 to $1.5 mm.

The completion on the website is an important step as ADHC is currently working with financial advisors to create a Private Placement Memorandum (PPM). The PPM will contain all relevant information and risk factors available to investors interested in AURACIStm. Initial valuation estimates for AURACIS have been in the $10 mm range. If this valuation holds true ADHC will retain 85 % of the AURACIStm worth an estimated $8.5 mm. The valuation model is based upon a variety of factors including cost of development, competitive environment, Alternative therapies or medications, market size (38 mm patients), ease of market penetration, regulatory risk and other factors. ADHC is meeting with technology analysts in the near future to finalize the details of the valuation model and to chart a course to present the AURACIS tm plan to investors.

ADHC has completed a "USE OF FUNDS" projected costs analysis for the development of its migraine management therapy AURACIStm. Management has met with medical device engineering firms and has done an exhaustive analysis of the AURACISTM TENS Migraine therapy system including all the patents and patent applications in the US and abroad, patent license agreement, technical engineering schematics, FDA plans, patient study information, and other related assets. Current estimates have been lowered $500k to $1.5 mm to complete all prototype development and FDA compliant market image product development clinical use. Barring any unforeseen issues management believes the $1.5 mm budget should be adequate for all proposed costs over a 24-month time frame. Brazos Biomedical is currently meeting with institutional investors to devise a financing strategy to successfully bring The AURACIS product to market.

Investors can find a complete overview of all the AURACIS information at www.AURACISMIGRAINE.com

In additional news ADHC team of web developers has completed a successful beta test of its' cannabis e-commerce platform offering a variety of CBD products to consumers. More products are being regularly added as the company approached the 12-13-2018 launch date.

ADHC will keep shareholders informed as events progress.

ADHC is a holding company that provides executive management, corporate governance, administrative support, financial advice, and introductions to capital sources to various micro-cap private and public companies that have proven revenues and business models.

BRAZOS BIOMEDICAL LLC is a biodevice company utilizing electrostimulation for pain management to improve patient outcomes through creative innovation with a core competency in a migraine and headache pain space.

This press release contains forward-looking statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include risks and uncertainties that may cause the Company's plans to change and are in no way intended to guarantee that the Company will be successful in executing its plans. common stock currently trades on the over-the-counter under the symbol ADHC. This press release in no way constitutes any recommendation regarding the securities of ADHC or its affiliates. Any person reading this press release is advised that this release should be considered in the light of all facts and circumstances regarding the business and financial condition and prospects of ADHC, and no reference has been made that this release contains all information.

Contact: adhcinvestor@gmail.com Tel: 858-259-4534

SOURCE: American Diversified Holdings Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/529535/ADHC-Launches-wwwAuracismigrainecom-A-New-Website-for-The-Non-Opioid-Migraine-Pain-Management-DeviceJapan's national TV group NHK broadcasted live images from the Vatican in 8K via EUTELSAT 12 West B satellite for its new channel BS8K

Regulatory News:

NHK, Japan's national broadcaster, has partnered with Eutelsat Communications (Paris:ETL) to launch the world's first 8K network; BS8K. The live broadcast took place on December 2nd from the Vatican where images were transmitted to Tokyo via EUTELSAT 12 West B satellite with a mobile uplink provided by M-three Satcom. This momentous event by NHK has broken new ground for 8K contribution via satellite.

To achieve the technologically challenging feat, NHK relied on DVB-S2X modulation, in 16APSK, and HEVC encoding. The images (7680 pixels over 4320 lines, an astounding 33.3 million pixels per image) were shot at 60 frames per second in BT2020 colour space, with 10 bits of colour depth (1 billion colours) and high dynamic range HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma), combined with 22.2 channel audio.

Airing today in Japan, BS8K features 8K Ultra HD footage of major cultural and sporting events, museums and natural landscapes, providing viewers with a fully immersive experience which will be broadcast 12 hours a day. The channel will allow for further experimentation with 8K prior to the large-scale deployment of the format for the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics games in 2020.

Gerry O'Sullivan, Executive Vice President, Global TV and Video of Eutelsat: "Eutelsat has been a pioneer in delivering HD and Ultra HD formats since their inception, and this broadcast confirms satellite's unique position as one of the vital technologies capable of broadcasting 8K signals. We look forward to working hand in hand with customers such as NHK as they continue to raise the bar higher for the broadcasting industry, to deliver the best possible video experience to viewers."

About Eutelsat Communications

Established in 1977, Eutelsat Communications is one of the world's leading operators of communication satellites. Through its global fleet of satellites and ground-based infrastructure, Eutelsat enables its clients in the Video, Data, Government Services, and Fixed and Mobile connectivity sectors to efficiently connect to their clients wherever they may be. Eutelsat broadcasts nearly 7,000 channels, operated by the largest television groups, reaching an audience of one billion television viewers equipped for satellite reception or connected to land networks. Based in Paris, Eutelsat relies on a global network of offices and teleports. Its teams, comprised of 1,000 employees from 46 countries strive daily to offer the best quality service.

Eutelsat Communications is listed on the Paris Stock Exchange (Euronext Paris) under the symbol ETL.

To learn more about Eutelsat, go to www.eutelsat.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005454/en/

Contacts:

Eutelsat Communications

Media

Marie-Sophie Ecuer

Tel.: + 33 1 53 98 37 91

mecuer@eutelsat.com

Christina Darvasi

Tel.: 52 55 26 29 58 47

cdarvasi@eutelsat.com

Jessica Whyte

Tel.: 33 1 53 98 37 91

jwhyte@eutelsat.com

Investors

Joanna Darlington

Tel.: +33 1 53 98 35 30

jdarlington@eutelsat.com

Cedric Pugni

Tel.: +33 1 53 98 35 30

cpugni@eutelsat.com

Alexandre Enjalbert

Tel.: +33 1 53 98 35 30

aenjalbert@eutelsat.comPRINCETON, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / December 3, 2018 / TripBorn, Inc. ("TripBorn" or the "Company") (OTCQB: TRRB), a leading Indian online travel marketplace, today announced that the Company is scheduled to present at the 11th Annual LD Micro Main Event on Wednesday, December 5th at 2:00 PM PST at the Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel in Los Angeles, CA. Deepak Sharma, Chief Executive Officer, will be presenting, as well as meeting with investors.

The LD Micro Main Event will take place December 4th, 5th, and 6th, in Los Angeles at the Luxe Sunset Bel Air Hotel, will feature 250 companies, and will be attended by over 1,200 individuals.

View TripBorn's profile here: https://www.ldmicro.com/profile/TRRB

Profiles powered by LD Micro. News Compliments of Accesswire

About TripBorn, Inc.

TripBorn is an online marketplace, sometimes referred to as an OTA, that offers digital micro services including travel reservations, ticketing and travel related services to business agents across India through the Company's website, www.tripborn.com. Currently, Tripborn operates as a business to business, or B2B, online travel marketplace that serves travel and business agents and small businesses based in India in booking travel services, ticketing and money transfer, bill payments services and products for their customers. Through the Company's internet-based platform, business agents can search and book domestic and international air tickets, hotels, vacation packages, rail tickets and bus tickets, as well as ancillary travel-related services and e-commerce money transfer and bill payments services. TripBorn serves approximately 6,534 agents across India.

About LD Micro

LD Micro was founded in 2006 with the sole purpose of being an independent resource in the microcap space.

What started out as a newsletter highlighting unique companies has transformed into several influential events annually (Invitational, Summit, and Main Event).

In 2015, LDM launched the first pure microcap index (the LDMi) to exclusively provide intraday information on the entire sector. LD will continue to provide valuable tools for the benefit of everyone in the small and micro-cap universe.

For those interested in attending, please contact David Scher at david@ldmicro.com or visit www.ldmicro.com for more information.

SOURCE: TripBorn, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/529578/TripBorn-to-Present-at-the-11th-Annual-LD-Micro-Main-EventSALINAS, CA / ACCESSWIRE / December 3, 2018 / 1st Capital Bank (OTC PINK: FISB) today announced the appointment of Demetri Snow as the Bank's Regional President, with primary responsibility for the market area of the Salinas Valley. Mr. Snow is a veteran local banker with twenty-five years of experience serving clients in the Salinas Valley.

Mr. Snow was raised in the Salinas Valley and attended Palma High School and Hartnell College before receiving his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University, Fresno. He has held a number of high-level management positions in the banking industry, specializing in SBA/Government Guaranteed Lending, Commercial Real Estate, and Business Banking. He most recently served as Senior Vice President and SBA Market Manager for an international financial institution. Mr. Snow is a former board member of the Economic Development Center of Monterey County.

"We are thrilled to welcome Demetri to the 1st Capital Bank team," said Jon Ditlevsen, Chief Lending Officer of 1st Capital Bank. "Demetri is a well-known, experienced leader who understands how to meet the needs of the Salinas Valley market. His experience in Business Banking and Commercial Lending will be a tremendous asset to our team and our clients."

Of the appointment, Mr. Snow commented "I am looking forward to joining the tremendous team of bankers at 1st Capital Bank. I admire the Bank's commitment to the local community and their clients, and look forward to helping the Bank move forward in its mission to contribute to the growth and prosperity of our communities."

Mr. Snow can be reached at demetri.snow@1stcapitalbank.com or (831) 264-4055.

About 1st Capital Bank

The Bank's primary target markets are commercial enterprises, professionals, real estate investors, family business entities, and residents along the Central Coast Region of California. The Bank provides a wide range of credit products, including loans under various government programs such as those provided through the U.S. Small Business Administration ("SBA") and the U.S. Department of Agriculture ("USDA"). A full suite of deposit accounts is also available, complemented by robust cash management services. The Bank operates full service branch offices in Monterey, Salinas, King City, and San Luis Obispo. The Bank's corporate offices are located at 150 Main Street, Suite 150, Salinas CA 93901. The Bank's website is www.1stCapital.bank. The main telephone number is 831.264.4000.

Member FDIC / Equal Opportunity Lender / SBA Preferred Lender

This news release is available at the www.1stcapital.bank website for no charge.

For further information, please contact:

Thomas E. Meyer

President and Chief Executive Officer

1st Capital Bank

831.264.4057 office

Tom.Meyer@1stCapitalBank.com

Michael J. Winiarski

Chief Financial Officer

1st Capital Bank

831.264.4014 office

Michael.Winiarski@1stCapitalBank.com

SOURCE: 1st Capital Bank

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/529594/1st-Capital-Bank-Announces-Appointment-of-Demetri-Snow-as-Regional-PresidentWashington, D.C.--(Newsfile Corp. - December 3, 2018) - The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced that Aaron Lipson, Associate Regional Director for enforcement matters in the Atlanta Regional Office, is leaving the agency this month after 14 years of service.

Mr. Lipson joined the SEC in 2004 as a staff attorney and was promoted to Assistant Regional Director in 2010 before being named Associate Regional Director in 2016. As the Atlanta office's Associate Regional Director for enforcement matters, Mr. Lipson has supervised a staff of more than 60 attorneys, accountants, and other professionals responsible for investigating potential violations of the federal securities laws by a wide range of market participants. Mr. Lipson received the agency's Ellen B. Ross Award in recognition of his "exemplary commitment, enthusiasm and performance in working to fulfill the Commission's responsibilities for the fair and effective enforcement of the federal securities laws," and the Chairman's Award for Excellence for his work in protecting the financial interests of senior citizens.

"Aaron is a dedicated public servant whose distinguished record of cases has left an indelible mark on the SEC and its Atlanta office," said Stephanie Avakian, Co-Director of the SEC's Division of Enforcement. "Time and time again, he has demonstrated his commitment to protecting investors and the fair and orderly function of our markets."

"Aaron is incredibly tenacious, intelligent, and skilled at developing cases," said Steven Peikin, Co-Director of the SEC's Division of Enforcement. "Under Aaron's stewardship of Atlanta's enforcement program, the SEC has brought programmatically significant cases that have had an outsized impact on the Atlanta region and throughout the nation."

Richard Best, Regional Director of the SEC's Atlanta office, added, "Aaron leaves behind a legacy of accomplishments in Atlanta. He has been a strong mentor who has always been willing to provide counsel to all who seek it. The Atlanta office and the SEC have benefited tremendously from Aaron's leadership."

Mr. Lipson said, "It has been a true privilege to spend the past almost 15 years in the service of U.S. investors. The core of my professional career has been spent working with and learning from the exceptionally skilled and dedicated professionals throughout the SEC. I am particularly grateful to my colleagues in Atlanta for their kindness and steadfast commitment to the agency's mission."

Under Mr. Lipson's leadership of the Atlanta office's enforcement program, the SEC has brought dozens of enforcement matters, including charges against:

Bank of America and two of its subsidiaries for defrauding investors in an offering of residential mortgage-backed securities by failing to disclose key risks and misrepresenting facts about the underlying mortgages

Eleven former executives and board members at Superior Bank and its holding company who were allegedly involved in various schemes to conceal the extent of loan losses as the bank was faltering in the wake of the financial crisis

The former chairman and majority owner of Taylor, Bean & Whitaker Mortgage Corp., which was once the largest non-depository mortgage lender, for orchestrating a $1.5 billion securities fraud scheme and attempting to scam the U.S. Treasury's Troubled Asset Relief Program

TBW's former CEO and former treasurer, and a vice president of Colonial Bank, for their roles in the TBW fraud

KPMG and an engagement partner for failing to properly audit the financial statements of an oil and gas company, resulting in investors being misinformed about the energy company's value

The investment services subsidiary of SunTrust Banks for collecting more than $1.1 million in avoidable fees from clients by improperly recommending more expensive share classes of various mutual funds when cheaper shares of the same funds were available

Four former Atlanta-area brokers for fraudulently inducing federal employees to roll over holdings from their federal Thrift Savings Plan retirement accounts into higher-fee, variable annuity products

Before joining the SEC, Mr. Lipson worked as a litigation associate at Parker, Hudson, Rainer & Dobbs LLP in Atlanta, Georgia. Mr. Lipson earned his law degree with honors from the University of Georgia School of Law in 2000, and his bachelor's degree in history with honors from Yale University in 1997.(1) Performance results are presented on a gross and net-of-fees basis. Net returns reflect the deduction of, among other expenses, management fees, brokerage commissions, administrative fees, and accrued and/or crystallized performance fees, if any, and include the reinvestment of all dividends, interest, and capital gains. Net returns reflect the performance of the Company's Public Shares. Depending on the timing of an individual investor's specific investment, net performance for an individual investor may vary from the net performance as stated herein. Gross returns reflect the performance of the Company's shares in the aggregate and are presented before the deduction of management fees and performance fees, if any. In May 2018, the Company purchased and cancelled 22,271,714 Public Shares pursuant to the tender offer announced on April 25, 2018 (the "Tender Offer"). The positive impact on performance of the Tender Offer is reflected herein. Performance data and other information contained herein are estimated and unaudited. Net performance is a geometrically linked, time-weighted calculation. (2) Reflects the number of positions in issuers in which the Company has previously publicly disclosed an investment, which occurs after the Company has completed its accumulation. Cash, cash equivalents, direct or indirect currency or other hedges and income/expense items are excluded. Multiple financial instruments (for example, common stock and derivatives on common stock) associated with one (1) issuer count as one (1) position. A position that is included in the number of positions will be removed from the table only if the investment becomes 0.0% of the portfolio. (3) For the purpose of determining the equity and debt exposures, investments are valued as follows: (a) equity or debt is valued at market value, (b) options referencing equity or debt are valued at market value, (c) long call options and short put options (or vice-versa, short call options and long put options) held on the same underlying issuer and with the same strike and same expiry are grouped together and treated as synthetic equity positions, and are valued at the market value of the equivalent long equity position (or vice-versa, the equivalent short equity position), and (d) swaps or forwards referencing equity or debt are valued at the market value of the notional equity or debt underlying the swaps or forwards. Whether a position is deemed to be long or short is determined by whether an investment has positive or negative exposure to price increases or decreases. For example, long puts are deemed to be short exposure. (4) Includes all issuer equity, debt, and derivatives related to issuer equity and debt, and associated currency hedges. Cash, cash equivalents, direct or indirect currency or other hedges and income/expense items are excluded. The market values of associated currency hedges are included as part of the associated investment. In the event that there is a change in market cap category with respect to any non-publicly disclosed position, this information is not updated until such position is publicly disclosed. (5) Portfolio composition is reflective of the publicly disclosed portfolio positions as of the date of this report. A position in an issuer is only assigned to a sector once it has been publicly disclosed. (6) "Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd. AUM" equals the assets under management of Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd. Any performance fees crystallized as of the end of the year will be reflected in the following period's AUM. (7) "Total Strategy AUM" equals the aggregate assets under management of Pershing Square, L.P., Pershing Square International, Ltd., Pershing Square II, L.P. and Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd. (collectively, the "Core Funds"). Redemptions effective as of the end of any period (including redemptions attributable to crystallized performance fees/allocations, if any) will be reflected in the following period's AUM. (8) "Total Firm AUM" is the aggregate of Total Strategy AUM and the assets under management of Pershing Square VI Master, L.P. which operates as a co-investment vehicle investing primarily in securities of (or otherwise seeking to be exposed to the value of securities issued by) Automatic Data Processing, Inc. ("PSVI") without double counting investments by any Core Fund in PSVI.Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - December 3, 2018) - AltaGas Canada Inc. (TSX: ACI) ("ACI") announced that it has agreed to issue $300 million of senior unsecured medium-term notes (the "Offering"). The notes carry a coupon rate of 4.26% and mature on December 5, 2028.

The Offering is expected to close on or about December 5, 2018. The net proceeds resulting from the Offering will be used to pay down a portion of the amount outstanding under the promissory note dated October 18, 2018 in the principal amount of $351.2 million held by AltaGas Ltd.

The Offering is being made through a syndicate of investment dealers co-led by RBC Capital Markets and CIBC Capital Markets under ACI's Short Form Base Shelf Prospectus dated November 14, 2018 and Prospectus Supplement dated November 15, 2018.

No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this press release. This press release is not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States (including its territories and possessions, any state of the United States and the District of Columbia) or any other jurisdiction outside Canada. This press release does not constitute or form a part of any offer to buy or sell any securities in the United States or any other jurisdiction outside of Canada. The securities of ACI have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws. Accordingly, these securities may not be offered or sold within the United States or to a U.S. person unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or except pursuant to exemptions from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. There will be no public offering of securities in the United States.

About ACI

ACI is a Canadian company with natural gas distribution utilities and renewable power generation assets. ACI serves approximately 130,000 customers, delivering low carbon energy, safely and reliably. For more information visit: www.altagascanada.ca.

FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains forward-looking statements. When used in this news release, the words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "seek", "propose", "estimate", "expect", and similar expressions, as they relate to ACI or an affiliate of ACI, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements with respect to, among other things, the Offering, the closing of the Offering and the use of proceeds from the Offering. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect ACI' current views with respect to future events based on certain material factors and assumptions and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, changes in market, competition, governmental or regulatory developments, general economic conditions and other factors set out in ACI's public disclosure documents. Many factors could cause ACI's actual results, performance or achievements to vary from those described in this news release, including without limitation those listed above. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in this news release as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, sought, proposed, estimated or expected, and such forward-looking statements included in, or incorporated by reference in this news release, should not be unduly relied upon. Such statements speak only as of the date of this news release. ACI does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.



NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES(ASX:CE1)

Jessica Amir here, for The Finance News Network. Today I'm with Calima Energy Senior Geophysicist, Justin Norris. Hi, Justin, and welcome to the Network.Hi, Jessica. It's a pleasure to be here.So first up, Calima is set to kick off drilling at the Montney formation in British Columbia. Tell us all about it.Yeah, sure. Calima Energy, it's an oil and gas exploration company. We're focused on a play in western Canada called the Montney Formation. That spans over British Columbia and Alberta. We've assembled quite a large position in the play, about 72,000 acres, and the play itself is probably the largest oil and gas play in Canada. It actually compares quite favourably up against some of the more well-known U.S. plays, such as the Marcellus and the Bakken.We entered the play in 2014. We did that with some quite innovative geo science, just building the play, quite low cost. The market today values it at about CAD$700 an acre, Canadian dollars an acre, yet we're seeing transactions in the order of about CAD$4,500, so that's quite exciting for us as well.We're looking to embark upon our first drilling campaign. Whilst we were building our own position, our neighbours to the south were actually drilling some wells. They drilled probably 60 wells, most of them on production, so they've almost de-risked the play for us, so it's fairly exciting as we head straight into our own play, and we look to almost replicate and maybe even surpass some of the results that our peers are seeing towards the south.So Shell Canada Limited have given the go-ahead for a large greenfield LNG export project in Canada or British Columbia, what does it mean for you guys at Calima Energy?This announcement is known as the Kitimat LNG Project, operated by Shell. It's actually the largest infrastructure investment ever in Canada, full stop. The largest that's ever been done. The government's also given approval for a number of other projects down the line. One of those in the same area is actually operated by Chevron (CVX:US), and Woodside to actually joint venture partner, as well, in that particular one.Why it's exciting to Calima, well, some of the pipelines that actually feed into that LNG are only located probably 20 kilometres from our lands, as well. It also actually means that for the very first time, that the Montney play is actually being opened up to international markets, outside of the U.S.Thanks, Justin. Now to your project. Just give us an update on your maiden resource.Yeah, sure. So in March of this year, we took receipt of an independent resource assessment for the 72,000 acres of Calima lands. We have a prospective resource of 475 million barrels of oil equivalents. Just breaking that down a little bit further, that's compiled of 2.1 Tcf of natural gas and 115 barrels of liquids, and the liquids is really the important bit. That's the real big differentiator. The Montney is a huge gas field, but it's actually the liquids that make the difference and we're quite happy that we've compiled a position in quite a liquids-rich portion of the play.So that report is actually based with 400 wells being drilled over our acreage position. It's also done by exploiting two of the Montney levels. But the reality is, there's actually three wells exploited across the basin, so we actually see the report as actually being quite sensibly conservative, and we think that's quite a good thing. Once we've actually completed this upcoming drilling campaign. This resource assessment will then move from prospective resources over to contingent for a large portion of the play.Now can you give us an update on your drill program?We have people on the ground, right now, working in the snow. We're going to drill three wells. The first of those will be a vertical well. That well will be cored and will be used for the stratigraphic correlation, and then on the back of that, we would look to drill two horizontal wells, and they will be taken out to extended production tests, as well. There is talk of AUD$80 billion dollars of investment across western Canada in the near term. So that is our take on that and it's exciting. There's a real appetite for the Montney resource right now.So you just awarded contracts to Precision Drilling (NYSE:PDS). Tell us about what's involved.Yeah, so Precision Drilling (NYSE:PDS), they're one of the largest drilling contractors across North America, in Canada and the US. We went through a large search to actually choose a really good choice, and we're very pleased to say that we've chosen a rig, it's known as a hot rig. What that means is it's a rig which is active right now. It's been drilling for a company called Kelt Exploration (TSE:KEL). It then goes to ConocoPhillips (COP:US), and then it will be arriving at Calima Lands, for us to drill out wells, later this year.Now to finances, Justin. Just tell us about your highlights from your quarterly results.There's been two significant events over the last quarter for us. The first of those was completion of consolidating the joint venture. There were two other Australian companies, TMK Montney and TSV Montney, and they have now been taken up such that Calima now actually has 100 per cent of the entire project. Beyond that, we then completed a raise in September of this year, and we raised AUD$25 million Australia dollars, so that was taken up largely by institutional investors in the group, very happy to say that it was heavily oversubscribed and we had to close the books early.Just lastly, Justin, before we let you go, where would you like to see the company 12 months from now?Sure. Well, in the immediate future we'll be drilling the wells. They talk about drilling as being the vertical lie detector. Maybe in this case it's actually the horizontal well lie detector, but what that actually means is that we would have drilled these wells that would look to validate our prospectivity. We would see that as producing a significant re-rate of our share price, we would like to think. That would then take us down the path of going back to the resource reports. As mentioned earlier, we would actually, some of our reserves would move from prospective to contingent. That then gives us some optionality. If there hasn't been an offer on the table for us to actually acquire our acreage, we would actually look to drill some more wells in the next calendar year. That might involve drilling another three horizontal wells in the Montney play. So that could actually have us in a position, by late next year, actually being a Montney producer with five wells, potentially 3,000 barrels of oil a day.Wonderful. We'll be looking forward to seeing your success. Justin Norris, thank you so much.Great. Thank you very much, Jessica.Baba Ramdev said Patanjali Ayurved would buy honey, wheat, rice, pulse, vegetables and other products grown through organic farming.

Ranchi: Yoga guru Baba Ramdev's Patanjali Ayurved would join hands with the Jharkhand government to market organic products like honey, wheat, rice and vegetables grown in the state.

An Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) would be signed between the state government and the Patanjali Ayurved to this effect soon, Chief Minister Raghubar Das said at the 'Global Agriculture and Food Summit here on Friday.

In order to boost the organic cultivation, the state government will build organic production clusters in all 24 districts, the CM said.

The products would be sold under the brand name 'Jharkhand Jaivik'.

Das added that another MoU will also be inked with Patanjali for setting up a honey processing plant in the state.

Baba Ramdev, who was present at the summit, said they will buy honey, wheat, rice, pulse, vegetables and other products grown through organic farming.

He said Jharkhand has the potential of becoming a leading state in agriculture, and Patanjali will work with the state government in making the farmers prosperous.

Patanjali Ayurved's FMCG range includes herbal ayurved, natural pure products, cosmetics, personal care, cattle feed and bio-fertilisers, dairy products, frozen vegetables and packaged water.

Patanjali had registered around Rs 12,000 crore revenue last fiscal.

It sells products through thousands of its retail outlets across the country.All unions under UFBU will participate in this strike call, said Ashwani Rana, vice president of the National Organisation of Bank Workers.

New Delhi: Bank unions on Saturday called for a nationwide strike on 26 December to protest the proposed merger of Bank of Baroda, Dena Bank and Vijaya Bank.

The Narendra Modi government had in September approved the merger of the three public sector banks.

The strike will be organised by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), an umbrella body of nine employee and officer unions.

The government and the three banks were moving ahead with their decision for amalgamation and hence it was decided to give the call for a strike, All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) General Secretary C H Venkatachalam said.

All unions under UFBU will participate in this strike call, said Ashwani Rana, vice president of the National Organisation of Bank Workers.

Following the government nod, the respective boards of these banks had given their approval for the amalgamation.

The merged entity will be the third-largest lender in the country after State Bank of India (SBI) and HDFC Bank.

As at June-end, the total business size of the three entities together was Rs 14.82 lakh crore.

Of the three banks, Dena Bank is the weakest, with non-performing asset (NPA) ratio of 11.04 percent and business of Rs 1.72 lakh crore, as compared with 5.4 per cent NPA and Rs 10.2 lakh crore business of Bank of Baroda and 4.10 percent NPA and Rs 2 lakh crore worth business of Vijaya Bank.As per separate gazette notifications of the Swiss government, the country's federal tax department has agreed to provide 'administrative assistance' to India on requests made about Geodesic Ltd and Aadhi Enterprises Private Ltd.

New Delhi/Berne: As Switzerland continues to shed its image as a safe haven for alleged black money, the Alpine nation has agreed to share with Indian authorities the details about two companies and three individuals who are facing multiple probes back in India.

One of the two Indian companies used to be a publicly-listed entity and has already faced the wrath of capital markets regulator Sebi for multiple violations, while the other firm is said to have political links in Tamil Nadu.

As per separate gazette notifications of the Swiss government, the country's federal tax department has agreed to provide 'administrative assistance' to India on requests made about Geodesic Ltd and Aadhi Enterprises Private Ltd.

Similar requests have also been accepted for three individuals associated with Geodesic Ltd -- Pankajkumar Onkar Srivastava, Prashant Sharad Mulekar and Kiran Kulkarni.

While the Swiss government did not disclose specific details related to the information and assistance sought by the Indian authorities regarding the two companies and the three individuals, such an 'administrative assistance' follows submission of proof about financial and tax-related wrongdoings and typically involves sharing of information relating to bank account details and other financial data.

The concerned companies and the individuals can file an appeal against the decision of Switzerland's Federal Tax Administration (FTA) to provide administrative assistance to India.

Repeated attempts to contact the two companies and the three individuals for their comments failed to yield any result. In the past, they have denied any wrongdoing.

The 1982-incorporated Geodesic, once known as a fast-growing company with cutting-edge technology solutions, does not have a functional website anymore and is also no longer a listed entity as trading in its shares has been suspended by the stock exchanges for "procedural reasons".

The company and its directors have faced regulatory action by Sebi as well as other authorities like the Enforcement Directorate and the Economic Offence Wing of the Mumbai Police.

As per latest available details about the company on the stock exchanges, Pankajkumar was listed as Geodesic's chairman, Kiran Kulkarni as managing director and Prashant Mulekar as executive director.

In case of Aadhi Enterprises Pvt Ltd, which was incorporated in Chennai in November 2014, the company is said to have seen a rapid growth in real estate and other businesses, but soon landed in trouble due to alleged links to tainted politicians and for allegedly indulging in money laundering.

According to reports, the Income Tax Department has conducted multiple raids on properties of the company's promoters.

While Switzerland has always denied being a safe haven for black money, it has traditionally been known for its strong banking secrecy laws that had to be eased following a strong global crackdown on illicit funds being stashed in such jurisdictions.

The Alpine nation has been sharing details for many years with several countries including India after submission of evidence about financial and tax-related wrongdoings of the clients of Swiss banks.

Besides, a new framework of automatic information exchange has been now put in place and the details can be accessed under the new system from next year.BSNL unions have been demanding allocation of 4G spectrum to the public sector firm,

New Delhi: All employee unions of BSNL on Sunday decided to defer their indefinite strike by a week to 10 December as they are scheduled to meet Telecom Minister Manoj Sinha. The nationwide BSNL strike was earlier proposed to start from Monday.

The employee unions met Telecom Secretary Aruna Sundararajan on Sunday and observed improvement in some of the issues that they have been raising, such as allotment of 4G spectrum, pension revision and payment of pension contribution by BSNL as per the government rules.

All Unions and Associations of BSNL (AUAB), however, said in a statement that they were not convinced with the reply of the secretary in respect to their demand on third pay revision.

"Under these circumstances, with the view to ensure an opportunity for having a discussion with the Hon'ble Minister of State for Communications, the AUAB has decided to defer the indefinite strike for one week," the statement said.

BSNL unions have been demanding allocation of 4G spectrum to the public sector firm, so that it is able to compete in the market and keep up the market share. The employees are also demanding wage revision as per recommendations of 2nd and 3rd Pay Revision Committees.

"In case a fruitful settlement does not arise in the meeting with the Hon'ble Minister of State for Communications, the indefinite strike will start from 00:00 hours on 10-12-2018," AUAB said.There is a need for a container terminal on the west of city (Howrah) side which could avoid trucks coming to Kolkata, a shipping industry player said

Kolkata: A prominent shipping industry player has sought a new container terminal on the Howrah side that will not only decongest Kolkata but also help lower its rising pollution levels.

"There is a need for a container terminal on the west of city (Howrah) side which could avoid trucks coming to Kolkata," Tirupati Vessels director Rajiv Agarwal said. Tirupati Vessels has recently started RoRo (Roll-on/roll-off) service in the city. However, Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT) has dismissed the need at this hour.

KoPT chairman Vinit Kumar told PTI that RoRo service addresses the issue and had been commenced to transfer the trucks to Howrah bypassing Kolkata roads and bridges for their onward journey.

India-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry president A M Ahmad said funding for the project will not be a problem from the private sector and even Bangladeshi investors who are keen on developing it if the government decides.

Pollution in Kolkata has been rising alarmingly and the principal bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) had slapped a Rs 5 crore penalty on the state for its failure to control air quality in the city.

State environment and transport minister had said commercial vehicles beyond 15 years coming from districts and other states were a cause of concern as they were contributing heavily to the high pollution.

The KoPT chairman said that inland waterways trade with Bangladesh is not doing justice to its potential due to lack of inward cargo from Bangladesh which makes freight costlier.

"Talks have been held at government level for the export cargo of Bangladesh be allowed on Indian vessels from Dhaka's Panagon river port," he said. Successful trial of the coastal vessel to Pangaon was first held in February 2017.Once a key market for Jet Airways, the lower demand and high competition have made a good number of routes in the Gulf economically unviable, forcing the airline to withdraw operations from there, the source said.

Mumbai: Struggling to keep it afloat in the wake of a dismal financial performance in the last three quarters, Jet Airways is withdrawing its flight services on as

many as seven Gulf routes from this month, a source said. The Naresh Goyal-controlled airline will not operate as many as 39 services per week to Doha, Muscat, Abu Dhabi and Dubai from various domestic cities, he said.

Once a key market for Jet Airways, the lower demand and high competition have made a good number of routes in the Gulf economically unviable, forcing the airline to withdraw operations from there, the source said.

Notably, Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways holds 24 percent stake in the domestic full service carrier.

"Jet Airways has decided to withdraw its services to Doha from Kochi, Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram as well as to Abu Dhabi from Lucknow and Mangalore. Besides, the airline will also not operate on Mangalore-Dubai route. All these services are being taken out of operations from 5 December," a source said. This apart, the air services on Delhi-Muscat route are also being withdrawn from this month, he said.

The airline currently operates one daily service each on Kochi-Doha, Mangalore-Abu Dhabi, Mangalore-Dubai and Lucknow-Abu Dhabi. The Kozhikode-Doha and Delhi-Muscat is four days per week operations while Thiruvanathapuram-Doha services are three times per week.

Jet Airways in its response said Gulf operations are being optimised to focus on connectivity at its hubs in Mumbai and Delhi instead of point-to-point connectivity. The airline also said it will be enhancing frequency on Mumbai-Doha, Delhi-Doha as well as Mumbai-Dubai routes.

"Jet Airways has undertaken a comprehensive review of its network, whereby it will move capacity from uneconomical routes to more profitable ones, to more closely align the capacity offered with the demand characteristics of specific markets," Jet Airways said in a statement. "It is important to note that the scale of the airline's operations will remain unaffected," it added.

Jet Airways posted a net loss of Rs 1,261 crore during the September quarter. This was the airline's third successive quarterly loss. Amid cash paucity, it has been defaulting on salary payments to 15 percent of its workforce, primarily senior management, pilots and engineers.

The airline has been saying for quite some time now it is in "active discussion" with various investors to secure financing to navigate through current headwinds and create long-term growth.The committee is a follow up of the 12 October meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to review domestic production profile of oil and gas

New Delhi: The government has constituted a six-member committee to look at selling as many as 149 small and marginal oil and gas fields of state-owned ONGC and OIL to private and foreign companies to boost domestic output, sources said.

The panel is headed by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar and includes Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha, Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg, Oil Secretary M M Kutty, NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant and ONGC Chairman and Managing Director Shashi Shanker.

Sources said the committee is a follow up of the 12 October meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to review domestic production profile of oil and gas and the roadmap for cutting import dependence by 10 percent by 2022.

At the meeting, the Oil Ministry made a presentation showing that 149 smaller fields of Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC), Oil India Ltd (OIL) and other explorers accounted for just 5 percent of the domestic crude oil production.

It was suggested at the meeting that these smaller fields could be given out to private and foreign firms and ONGC could concentrate on the big ones where it could rope in technology partners through production enhancement contracts (PEC) or technical service arrangements.

Sources said the ministry was of the view that ONGC should concentrate on the large fields as they contribute to 95 percent of its production and leave out the rest for private firms.

On the anvil is some kind of extended version of the Discovered Small Field (DSF) bid round where discovered and producing fields of ONGC are auctioned to firms offering the maximum share of output to the government, sources said.

The six-member panel has begun consultations with the stakeholders on the possible options, they said.

This is the second attempt of by the Oil Ministry to take away some of the fields of state-owned ONGC for giving to private and foreign companies.

In October last year, the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH) had identified 15 producing fields with collective reserve of 791.2 million tonnes of crude oil and 333.46 billion cubic metres of gas of national oil companies for handing over to private firms in the hope they would improve upon the baseline estimate and their extraction.

The plan, however, could not go through as ONGC strongly countered the DGH proposal with its own proposal that it be allowed to outsource operations on the same terms as the government plan.

Sources said ONGC is of the view that it should be allowed the same terms that the government extends to private and foreign firms in DSF.

The government gave out 34 fields to private firms by offering them pricing and marketing freedom for oil and gas they produced from the fields in the first round of DSF.

The second round of DSF with 25 fields on offer is currently underbidding.

The fields offered in DSF were taken away from ONGC and Oil India Ltd on the pretext that they were lying idle and unexploited. But under the present proposal, the government plans to take away discovered and producing fields.

Sources said ONGC feels it too should be allowed to seek revenue-sharing partnership for its fields. Field operations could be outsourced to foreign or private firms that offered the highest revenue or production share over and above a baseline production.

The ministry is reasoning that the areas where the fields were discovered by ONGC were given to the state-owned firm on nomination basis.

In the proposal that was mooted in October last year, the plan was to give out 60 percent stake in 15 fields -- 11 of ONGC and four of Oil India. These included Kalok, Ankleshwar, Gandhar and Santhal -- the big four oil fields of ONGC in Gujarat.

The DGH too had identified 44 fields of ONGC and OIL which could take on partners for production enhancement work where bidders would get the 'tariff' that they bid as a return for increasing the output 'over the baseline production' for an initial period of 10 years.

The Oil Ministry is unhappy with the near stagnant oil and gas production and believes giving out the discovered fields to private firms would help raise output as they can bring in technology and capital, sources said.

It has been tasked by the Prime Minister to cut dependence on oil imports by 10 percent by 2022 from the over 77 percent dependence in 2014-15. But the dependence has only increased and is now over 83 percent.

The privatisation is repeat of the infamous round in 1992-93 when medium-sized discovered fields like Panna/Mukta and Tapti oil and gas field in western offshore were given to the now defunct Enron Corp of the US and Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL). As many as 28 fields were then awarded.

Under this regime, ONGC was made licensee and given an option to farm in 40 percent of stake. The controversial privatisation under the then oil minister Satish Sharma had resulted in an inquiry by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).Bringing relief to thermal power plants owned by Tata, Adani and Essar groups, the Gujarat government Saturday passed an order to allow pass-through of higher cost of coal to end consumers

New Delhi: Bringing relief to thermal power plants owned by Tata, Adani and Essar groups, the Gujarat government Saturday passed an order to allow pass-through of higher cost of coal to end consumers, a source said.

The Supreme Court had earlier ruled against any compensatory tariff for Tata Power, Adani Power (4600MW Mundra) and Essar Power (1320MW Salaya) plants to allow pass-through of higher cost of imported coal.

Confirming the development, Tata Power in a BSE filing Monday said, "The company welcomes the resolution by the government of Gujarat to accept the recommendations of the high-power committee in giving some relief to Mundra ultra mega power project that meets nearly 15 percent of Gujarat's requirement of power at a very reasonable cost."

"This relief will help Coastal Gujarat Power to continue its operations to meet its obligations to all the five beneficiary states," it added.

It further said, "Though the coal cost is now a pass-through, the company would continue to make losses due to rebate on financing cost, and coal mines' profit is being passed on to beneficiaries states."

According to the statement, Tata Power expect to get the consent of other four procurer states and, thereafter, amendment to the PPAs (power purchase agreement), based on the recommendations of the High Power Committee, so as to seek necessary approvals from power regulator Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) as per the directions of the Supreme Court.

Tata Power said, "This positive step is in the interest of all stakeholders, including the end consumers, who get 24X7 reliable electricity supply from the CGPL (Mundra) power plant."

In case these projects were shut down, replacing such huge capacity with alternate sources from the market would not be feasible as the short-term market prices are not only much higher and volatile, but the availability of power is uncertain, it said.

Also, establishing new imported/indigenous coal-based power plants would have significantly higher fixed and variable costs and high gestation period; and hence, would not offer any solution to immediate power requirement, it added.

The earlier letter Tata Power had inadvertently mentioned that the Mundra ultra mega power project meets nearly 23 percent of Gujarat's requirement of power, which letter may kindly be discarded, the company informed BSE.By Gavin Jones and Giuseppe Fonte ROME (Reuters) - The Italian parliament begins voting next week on the government's contested 2019 budget, with Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte optimistic that a deal can be agreed with the European Commission. Italy says the expansionary draft budget - in which the deficit is forecast to rise to 2.4 percent of GDP in 2019 from 1.8 percent this year - is needed to prevent a chronically sluggish economy from tipping into another recession.

By Gavin Jones and Giuseppe Fonte

ROME (Reuters) - The Italian parliament begins voting next week on the government's contested 2019 budget, with Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte optimistic that a deal can be agreed with the European Commission.

Italy says the expansionary draft budget - in which the deficit is forecast to rise to 2.4 percent of GDP in 2019 from 1.8 percent this year - is needed to prevent a chronically sluggish economy from tipping into another recession.

Brussels has rejected the budget, saying the plans will not lower Italy's large public debt as European Union rules require, and has called on Rome to make revisions to prevent a disciplinary procedure that could eventually lead to fines.

In recent days both sides have softened previously hardline rhetoric, reassuring financial markets and leading to a fall in Italy's borrowing costs. On Saturday Conte said a compromise was in everyone's interests.

"We make more progress at every meeting we have," he told reporters at the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, where he and Economy Minister Giovanni Tria discussed the budget with top European Commission officials including President Jean-Claude Juncker.

"We are looking at points that could be the basis for a possible solution."

Conte gave no details but said aspects discussed included ways some budget measures could be strengthened to improve Italy's faltering economic growth prospects.

Next week, after discussion and votes in parliamentary commissions, the budget reaches the floor of the lower house, the Chamber of Deputies, where political sources say the government is likely to put it to a confidence motion.

This would hasten the passage of the bill by truncating debate on amendments and ensure discipline among sometimes fractious coalition partners, the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement and the right-wing League.

The government must resign if it loses a confidence vote, but such an outcome is not seen as a risk in the Chamber of Deputies, where the coalition of former rivals has an ample majority. The budget must be approved in both houses of parliament by the end of the year.

The prime minister's office has denied the government is ready to make a significant reduction to the 2.4 percent deficit goal, but government and coalition sources have told Reuters it may cut it to as low as 2 percent to reach a deal with Brussels.

The League's economic spokesman Claudio Borghi said on Sunday that money set aside for a measure to reduce the retirement age next year may be more than is actually needed.

"Whether we use these savings to lower the deficit or for other investments is a political decision the government will take with the Commission," he said in a radio interview.

Another prominent League lawmaker, Alberto Bagnai, said the Commission now appears less hostile to Italy and that rioting in Paris over the weekend is also likely encourage it to seek compromise rather than confrontation.

"If we see the discontent that there is in France, these are things that change the climate," he said in a television interview with state broadcaster RAI.

While Italy's deficit goal remains well inside the EU ceiling of 3 percent of GDP, Bagnai forecast that France's deficit will exceed 4 percent next year, partly because the Paris government "will have to do something for these people".

(Editing by David Goodman)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.The money order was sent on 29 November from the Niphad office of India Post. It was addressed to 'Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India'.

Mumbai: An onion-grower from Maharashtra who had to sell his produce for little over Re 1 per kg has sent his earnings to the Prime Minister as a mark of protest.

Sanjay Sathe, resident of Niphad tehsil in Nashik district, was among the handful of `progressive farmers' selected by the Union Agriculture Ministry for an interaction with the then US president Barrack Obama when he visited India in 2010.

Speaking to PTI on Sunday, Sathe said, "I produced 750 kg of onion in this season but was offered a rate of Re 1 per kg at Niphad wholesale market last week. Finally I could negotiate a deal for Rs 1.40 per kg and received Rs 1,064 for 750 kg, he said.

"It was painful to see such paltry returns on four months of toil. Hence I have donated Rs 1,064 to Disaster Relief Fund of the PMO as a protest. I had to pay additional Rs 54 for sending it by money order," he said. "I do not represent any political party. But I am angry because of the government's apathy towards our woes," he added.

The money order was sent on 29 November from the Niphad office of India Post. It was addressed to "Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India".

Nashik district in north Maharashtra accounts for 50 percent of onion production in India.

Asked about his meeting with Obama eight years ago, he said, "I have been using a voice-based advisory service (run by a telecom operator) for farmers for a long time. I used to call them and get information about weather changes, and thus succeeded in increasing my production.

"I had also been invited to speak about my experiments in agriculture on local radio stations of AIR. So the agriculture ministry selected me to set up a stall at St Xavier's College in Mumbai when Obama visited it. I could speak to him for a couple of minutes through an interpreter."Nasscom said it will carefully review the 139-page proposal and evaluate its implications for US companies and the economy, and then submit comments

New Delhi: Nasscom has raised concerns over the US government's latest proposal that will require H1-B visa seeking firms to electronically register their petitions in advance, saying this will lead to "uncertainties" and could put US jobs at risk.

The IT industry body, in a statement, said it will carefully review the 139-page proposal and evaluate its implications for US companies and the economy, and then submit comments.

The Trump administration on Friday proposed major changes to the H-1B application process, including a new rule requiring companies to electronically register their petitions in advance, aimed at awarding this popular American work visa to the most skilled and highest paid foreign workers.

"...there is not much time between now and when the next H-1B lottery season opens in April 2019. Companies have already begun assessing their needs and planning their submissions for next year, so we are concerned about the uncertainties that could arise as the government seeks to implement another major change in the H-1B process during that timeframe," Nasscom said in a statement.

It added that it will review the proposal before submitting comments and "take other actions as appropriate to best ensure that the process makes sense, is fair, and does no harm".

The Department of Homeland Security said public comments on the proposed rule may be submitted starting 3 December, when the proposed rule publishes in the Federal Register, and must be received on or before 2 January.

"To the extent US policy makes it more difficult and costlier for global IT service companies to provide their expertise in the US, it will weaken the US companies that depend on them to help fill their skills gaps. Contrary to what is intended, this action could put US jobs at risk and create pressure to send more IT work abroad, rather than performing it in the US," Nasscom pointed out.

The apex industry body highlighted that the proposed rule would affect all companies employing H-1B workers.

"...speaking for our members, India-based and India-centric global IT services companies play a critical role helping US companies be nimbler and more competitive, enabling them to grow and create more jobs and opportunities for Americans," it stressed.

Nasscom said its members are already investing billions of dollars in the US, employing more than 1.5 lakh people, and spending millions of dollars on upskilling programmes.

"It is important that they and others continue to have access to the necessary talent," Nasscom urged.

Over the past many months, there has been increased scrutiny related to work visas across countries like the US, the UK and Australia. This has prompted many Indian IT companies to ramp up efforts to hire locally. Companies like TCS and Infosys are also engaging extensively with local academic institutions to train manpower, especially in new-age technology areas like artificial intelligence and automation.

The H1-B visa -- a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise -- has numerical limit cap of 65,000 visas each fiscal year as mandated by the US Congress. The first 20,000 petitions filed on behalf of beneficiaries with a US master's degree or higher are exempt from the cap.

Under the new rule, the USCIS would also reverse the order by which it selects H-1B petitions under the H-1B cap and the advanced degree exemption.

According to DHS, the proposed process would result in an estimated increase of up to 16 percent (or 5,340 workers) in the number of selected H-1B beneficiaries with a master's degree or higher from a US institution of higher education.

The USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services) said it expects that shifting to electronic registration would reduce overall costs for petitioners and create a more efficient and cost-effective H-1B cap petition process for the agency.

The proposed rule would help alleviate massive administrative burdens on the USCIS since the agency would no longer need to physically receive and handle hundreds of thousands of H-1B petitions and supporting documentation before conducting the cap selection process, it said.Recently, former PM Manmohan Singh had said the BJP-led government's promise to generate two crore jobs annually has turned out to be a 'gimmick'.

New Delhi: Terming the criticism of jobless growth during the NDA government as "spurious", Niti Aayog Vice-Chairman Rajiv Kumar has said that 70 lakh jobs were created in the financial year 2017-18 alone.

Kumar further said that growth in sales of transport vehicles, huge disbursement of Mudra loans and EPFO data show that enough opportunities for employment and self-employment were created during the past four years of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government.

Recently, former prime minister Manmohan Singh had said the BJP-led government's promise to generate two crore jobs annually has turned out to be a "gimmick".

"With all due respect, former prime minister Manmohan Singh does not put forward the data (on employment generation), I think this is a spurious charge and I think the debate should be much more on further improving the quality of the jobs," Kumar told PTI.

Noting that production of trucks, three-wheelers and auto rickshaws is rising significantly, Kumar said: "According to EPFO data, 70 lakhs jobs were created in 2017-18".

The Narendra Modi-led NDA government came to power in May 2014.

He further said if unemployment is rising in the country then real wages in both rural and urban regions should decline, but it's not happening.

"So, what is the basis for this (criticism of jobless growth during the NDA regime)? I think, the purpose is negative discourse for political aims and does not reflect economic reality," Kumar asserted.

Replying to a question on protests by farmers in some parts of the country, he said: "We have increased minimum support price (MSP) for farmers by huge amounts. Rural economy is in good shape, farmers' income is rising".

Asked when the Aayog will finalise the 'New India 2022' document, Kumar said, "It's ready and I am expecting it to be available in public domain in a very short time, it's finalised".

The government think-tank has been working on the strategy document for a while. The document was sent to states for comments.

Commenting on the rift between the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the government, he said that the last board meeting has shown that the RBI's autonomy is intact completely.

"I am sure that everybody accepts that autonomy does not mean a lack or absence of consultation and those consultations will continue as they should continue," Kumar said.The reality is that old onions, from last summers crop is not fetching any price in the market as there is no demand for it.

Even as the donation of a small amount to the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund by a Nashik-based onion farmer who apparently earned that paltry amount for his summer produce is making national headlines highlighting the severity of farm distress, what got conveniently ignored is that the farmer also hoarded his harvest for over nine months -- long enough to deteriorate in quality and new crop to come in.

The summer crop of onions hoarded by onion growers in Nashik have no takers. From being sold at an average of Rs 700 a quintal in May, the price has come down to Rs 400 a quintal. Distressed at the falling prices, an onion-grower from Maharashtra who had to sell his produce for little over Re 1 per kg sent his earnings to the Prime Minister to mark his protest, a PTI report said.

Sanjay Sathe, a resident of Niphad tehsil in Nashik district, said, "I produced 750 kg of onion in this season but was offered a rate of Re 1 per kg at Niphad wholesale market last week. It was painful to see such paltry returns on four months of toil. Hence I have donated Rs 1,064 to the National Relief Fund of the PMO as a protest. I had to pay an additional Rs 54 for sending it by money order," he said.

The reality is that old onions, from last summers crop, is not fetching any price in the market as there is no demand for it. The prices of onions were at their peak with red onions from Nashik fetching Rs 3,000 and sometimes going up to Rs 4,000 per quintal with demand from other parts of the country. Other states like Punjab, Rajasthan and Kolkata have had bountiful crops and there is no demand for these red onions from Nashik which is from an old crop. The red onion from Karnataka is also available now. Where is the need for this old crop? asks A Dawre, a wholesale trader from Nashik.

Contrary to talks of lack of warehouses which has resulted in damage of crops due to inadequate storage facilities, the fact is that farmers in Nashik were able to store their onions for over nine months. However, a major bulk of the stored onions have also started to get spoilt thus dimming their chances of a sale in the wholesale markets.

The price of onions has come down to an average of around Rs 400 per quintal from its peak of over Rs 2,000 in January 2018. In Lasalgoan, the price of the new crop is between Rs 400 to Rs 1,400 per quintal. The old summer crop has different categories that fetch different prices. The good quality onions among the summer crop fetch Rs 500-600 per quintal while the intermediate quality gets Rs 300-400 per quintal and the poor quality  which is found in abundance  is being sold at Rs 50-250 per quintal.

There is no demand for Nashik onions from the summer crop, said Hiralal Deshimuk Sonre, a wholesale trader from Lasalgaon. Lasalgaon is the biggest onion market in Nashik district. Only 30 percent of the old crop is good, he said. If the farmer had to sell the crop in May, he would have got Rs 2,500 per quintal unlike the measly sums for the old crop they are forced to take as there is no demand, he said.

Most of the old crop is being sent to Mumbai, the nearest market from Nashik. "There are issues of storage, said Sudhin Tarle, deputy secretary, Agriculture Produce Marketing Committee, Lasalgaon, as the onions are getting spoilt with long storage. To say that farmers are facing stress because of a low price for their crop is wrong information being sent out, he said. "What is not fetching good money is the old crop. The new crop is getting good prices and is also in demand," he said.

Since the onions have been stored for a longer time, they cannot be sent to other states as they have started to get spoilt, Tarle said. The produce is not good and packing and transporting them will only lead to more damage, he said. Taking them in trains would lead to more heat in the produce and the crop will be spoilt by the time it reaches its destination, he said. The old crop is being sent to Mumbai, he said.

Agreeing that the bulk of the old onions are coming to Mumbai, Rajendra Shelke, president of the Vashi onion and potato traders union said, the quality of the onions are not very good and a major bulk is being brought by the poor, he said. A lot of these old onions are also being used as fertiliser for crops, Shelke said. Around 60-70 trucks of onions come to Mumbai from Nashik. Of this, 60-70 percent are good quality onions but there are not many takers for them here, he said, as new onions have started to flood the market.

The government should step in and provide some relief to the farmers, said Tarle. "The farmer must be compensated by the government in some way," he said.

(With data support from Kishor Kadam)New Delhi: Reliance Communications on Monday said its subsidiary Reliance Realty has furnished corporate guarantee of Rs 1,400 crore to Telecom Department as directed by the Supreme Court, stepping closer towards concluding its spectrum sale to Reliance Jio.

The Supreme Court on November 30, had asked the Department of Telecom (DoT) to give a no-objection certificate (NoC) to Reliance Communications to sell its spectrum to Reliance Jio, provided a corporate guarantee of the said amount is furnished by its group firm in favour of government.

"As per the order....of the Supreme Court of India, Reliance Realty Limited, a 100 percent subsidiary of RCOM, has submitted the corporate guarantee of Rs 1,400 crore to the DoT. As per the said order, DoT is to approve the spectrum trading within this week," RCom spokesperson said in a statement.

RCom said that the proceeds from the spectrum deal will be used to clear the dues of Ericsson and RITL (Reliance Infratel) minority investors, and added that Reliance Communications' asset monetisation blueprint is moving as per plan.

Late last week, a bench headed by Justice R F Nariman said the NoC would be given to Reliance Communications Ltd (RCom), a Anil Ambani group firm, by the Telecom Department, if Reliance Realty furnishes the corporate guarantee within two days.

The order came on a petition filed by the Telecom Department against the order of Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) which had allowed RCom to sell spectrum to Reliance Jio without providing the bank guarantee of around Rs 2,900 crore to the DoT.

The TDSAT, in its last month order, had rejected DoT's plea seeking bank guarantee of around Rs 2,900 crore before it permits sale of RCom spectrum to Reliance Jio.

RCom has signed an agreement with Mukesh Ambani-owned Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd to sell its spectrum and other telecom assets for an estimated Rs 25,000 crore and partially clear its debt of about Rs 46,000 crore.

(Disclosure - Reliance Industries Ltd. is the sole beneficiary of Independent Media Trust which controls Network18 Media & Investments Ltd)In a meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the annual G-20 Summit in Argentina, Trump agreed to postpone for 90 days a scheduled increase in tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese imports, while Xi agreed to purchase a very substantial amount of US products so as to reduce the $375 billion trade deficit between the two countries.

New Delhi: The US and China agreeing to put off imposition of higher tariffs temporarily de-escalates hostilities between the two nations, but will not bridge the wide gulf between their economic, political and strategic interests, Moody's said on Monday.

Moody's Investors Service Managing Director, Sovereign Risk Group, Marie Diron said the US-China relations will remain contentious as the US and China are too strong to cede their respective national interests in negotiations with each other.

In a meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the annual G-20 Summit in Argentina, Trump agreed to postpone for 90 days a scheduled increase in tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese imports, while Xi agreed to purchase a very substantial amount of US products so as to reduce the $375 billion trade deficit between the two countries.

Signalling an end to the six-month-long trade war, Trump agreed that on 1 January, 2019, he will leave the tariffs on $200 billion worth of product at the 10 percent rate, and not raise it to 25 percent at this time.

"The announcement following the G20 meetings temporarily de-escalates hostilities between the US and China. However, we expect US-China relations to remain contentious. Narrow agreements and modest concessions in their ongoing trade dispute will not bridge the wide gulf between their respective economic, political and strategic interests," Diron said.

The US and China, being the world's two largest economies, are too strong to cede their respective national interests in negotiations with each other.

"However, an economic cold war that leads to decoupling would be costly for both countries, owing to their deep links with each other. Therefore, relations between the two powers will swing between conflict and compromise," Diron said.

She said the tensions between the US and China will affect global credit conditions in four key areas-- trade, technology, investment and geopolitics.

Continued tensions would disrupt global trade, erode the effectiveness of the multilateral international trade regime and dampen growth. As every new development is reflected in financial markets, it will affect valuations and borrowing costs for many debt issuers, she added.

"At the sovereign level, we are watching growth, investment and policy responses along with confidence indicators, such as capital flows and exchange rates," Diron said.

According to Diron, the Asian economies that are deeply integrated into regional and global tech and trade chains, including Hong Kong, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Vietnam, are most exposed to significant and lasting disruptions to trade and investment.The Supreme Court Monday directed the Maharashtra government to submit before it the charge sheet filed against arrested rights activists before a Pune court in connection with the Bhima Koregaon violence case.

New Delhi: The Supreme Court Monday directed the Maharashtra government to submit before it the charge sheet filed against arrested rights activists before a Pune court in connection with the Bhima Koregaon violence case.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it wanted to see the "charges" against the accused and asked senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the Maharashtra government, to submit before it by 8 December the charge sheet filed by the state police in a special court in Pune.

The bench, also comprising Justices SK Kaul and KM Joseph, was hearing an appeal of the state government against a Bombay High Court order refusing to extend the time limit of 90 days for filing the probe report in the case. The bench has now posted the appeal for further hearing on 11 December. Earlier the apex court had stayed the Bombay High Court order.

The Pune Police had arrested lawyer Surendra Gadling, Nagpur University professor Shoma Sen, Dalit activist Sudhir Dhawale, activist Mahesh Raut and Kerala native Rona Wilson in June for their alleged links with Maoists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).'Operation Faith', which was launched to tackle massive man-made disaster at Bhopal in 1984 was riddled with contradictions and cover-ups. An internal note (969-JSP-85/21-3) from Prime Minister Office (PMO) 21 March, 1985 suggested several individuals, choked by the lethal gas, have started regular routine and work.

Editor's Note: More than 700 documents accessed from former prime minister Rajiv Gandhis office reveal how horrible relief and rehabilitation measures by the authorities, and a company determined to hide the truth led to more deaths in the aftermath of the Bhopal gas tragedy. This three-part series uncovers how a dysfunctional administration at the state and Centre failed to contain the crisis 34 years ago, and how it's taking lives even today.

New Delhi: 'Operation Faith', which was launched to tackle massive man-made disaster at Bhopal in 1984 was riddled with contradictions and cover-ups. An internal note (969-JSP-85/21-3) from Prime Minister Office (PMO) 21 March, 1985 suggested several individuals, choked by the lethal gas, have started regular routine and work. Another note (88/C) prepared for the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi claimed that most of the people with temporary eye ailments have recovered and only a small percentage of people who were severally exposed could have corneal ulcer leading to opacity.

The present trends do not look alarming, but a long term impact study is necessary to assess the situation, the note had said.

The two PMO notes give a clear picture of ground zero that was shaken just three months before the notes were written. More than a year later in May 1986, a survey, conducted by an NGO and submitted to the PMO, gave a completely different picture of the situation.

The Citizen Relief and Rehabilitation Trust report said: Outside the hospitals and clinics in this area, people can still be seen wailing and begging for the panacea which would relieve them from scourge of the noxious visitation of December 1984. But they have ceased to be reckoned as victims of a man-made disaster by the people who are supposed to be responsible for their rehabilitation. Plunder and rhetoric subsist side by side and redeem everyone from the rigours of corrective responsibilities. All official and private initiatives to provide relief and rehabilitation remain largely ineffective or unimplemented. The medical and scientific community remains indifferent to the necessary task of developing a comprehensive health programme for a captive and debilitated community. It continues to indulge in recrimination and polemics over unproven theories. The outrage of the biggest industrial genocide in the world is gradually merged in offense that is contemporary India.

The scene from Shakti Nagar Basti, severely-affected by the disaster, describes governments apathy.

The state had stopped free distribution of ration and milk to the affected victims months after disaster and by May 1986, they were in acute distress, struggling to make ends meet. This is what the report said: Sona Bai of House No. 56 is the only earning member in a family of 10. She makes Rs 10 a day as a casual worker. Chapatis and chutney and occasionally potato curry are the items that the family can afford. Milk is not bought, not even for making tea. All the members of the family are severally ill with a wide range of complaints. These include impaired vision, skin rashes, cough, fever, chest pain, loss of appetite, fatigue, body aches particularly in the joints and burning and watering of eyes and stomach pain. Durga Bai of House No. 118 is suffering from acute pulmonary tuberculosis and is admitted in the MIC ward of Hamidiya Hospital. Kaushalya Bais husband of 138 Shakti Nagar died of pulmonary tuberculosis on 14 January. Kaushalya, aged 50 and her 4 grad daughters in the age group of 6 to 12, also complian of chest pain, cough, fever and weakness. Since the government stopped distribution of free rations last year, they are compelled to buy food grains and other essential edible items like cooking oil, spices and fuel etc from their meager income.

Why were the victims, even after more than a year of the disaster, were struggling to get relief ? The answer is in PMOs note (6530) dated 12 August, 1985. It said that the state government was hesitant to draw up and implement plan for long term rehabilitation partly because of expenditure involved. State government also rued the fact that despite spending Rs 2 crore a month on distribution of free foodgrains, they were not getting credit for it and there was inadequate perception of their relief effort.

A week later, on 29 August, 1985, Rajiv Gandhis administration drew a plan to continue giving free rations till the first anniversary of tragedy (December 1985) to avoid bad publicity. This shows pathetic approach of the government to deal with the awful tragedy.

PMOs secret note (4170) said: In view of the fact that in December 1985, there will be a lot of public attention to coincide with the anniversary of the incident, free rations to the affected persons may continue until January 1986. Thereafter distribution of free rations should be phased out within 6 to 8 months. The rations can be gradually reduced and thereafter stopped. According to Madhya Pradesh Government about 3.51 Lakh were affected. However, they are giving free rations to nearly 6.45 Lakhs. It is obvious that lot of bogus persons are receiving free rations. It is recommended that free rations for persons in non-affected areas (total population 1.14 Lakhs) should be stopped immediately. Further, the bogus ration cards in the affected areas should be detected and free ration stopped for such ration cards. It is anticipated that there are nearly 2 lakh bogus units. However for families whose bread winners have been permanently disabled or have otherwise no source of income may be given free rations. Depending upon the time they take to rehabilitate themselves economically. The number of such persons will not be very large.

This was an interesting observation in the PMO note since the Congress government arrived at an estimate without even a proper survey of affected persons. Questions were raised on working of the then Chief Minister Motilal Vora arguing that his intention was to do meaningful work but he was holding the job as a seat warmer for someone else. MN Buch, chairman of National Centre for Human Settlements and Environment wrote to GK Arora, Additional Secretary to Prime Minister Gandhi in August 1985 raising this apprehension ( PMO 46/C-P-20&21/N):

Very little has been done so far. Mr. Vora, the present Chief Minister, is well meaning and wants to move forward. Is he under some restraint, some deep seated feeling that he is only holding the job as a seat warmer for someone else? If so, the impression needs to be corrected and he must be told to ex digitate. Bhopal is not a problem of MP alone. It is as serious a national problem as Punjab or Assam. The patience of its people does not reduce the gravity of the issue.

Besides, there is another 4-page note in the PMO files suggesting that though Madhya Pradesh Government was not averse to rehabilitation of the affected persons but the effort seems to lack direction. A report (DO No. 11/2/85-ARL) by the panel headed by BJ Heerjee Additional Secretary, Home Affairs in August 1985 revealed another horror. Immediate relief was not provided to majority of the affected families:

"It was the complaint of practically every voluntary organisation and the members of the press and political parties that there is delay in the disbursement of Ex-Gratia relief to the affected persons. As stated earlier, 22,800 families have been surveyed. Out of these 11,800 families are identified as having an income less than Rs 500 per month. These families are eligible for financial assistance of Rs 1,500. Only 8,341 families have been given this assistance so far. Thus, 3,459 identified families have yet to receive this assistance. Considering the fact that only one-third of the affected families have been surveyed so far, the number of families still to receive financial assistance would be larger. Similarly, the state government declared an ex-gratia payment of Rs 10,000 for each deceased person. 1754 persons were reported to have died from inhaling the gas. Ex-gratia payment has been made to the families of 1073 deceased persons. 283 dead bodies remain unidentified. The remaining 398 cases should be settled expeditiously. It was pointed out to the group that the eligibility of income of Rs 500 per month should be done away with. The group appreciates that in these days of high prices, a family of five cannot subsist on Rs 500 per month, Panel report said.

Almost 8 months later in April 1986 Home Ministry informed the PMO ( letter 13/C) that the state government has completed the survey of about 78,500 families in 30 gas affected wards of Bhopal and 6 more wards were bring surveyed. It is important to note that free ration to the victims was completely stopped from January 1986 but monthly pension of Rs.200 to a widow that was announced with much fanfare was limited to only 207 persons. For long term rehabilitation for gas hit population, the government had launched a scheme for special training and bank loan up to Rs.12,000 to start a small business. Of the total amount, 25 percent was subsidised by the state government and bank charges were in the range of 4 percent to 12 percent. But, even this scheme was massive failure. Against the target of 20,000 families, 2457 families were covered till April 1986. The representative of the state government told the group headed by Heerjee that the success of economic rehabilitation programme would depend on the positive role of banks.

So far the banks have not been enthusiastic, the group was told.

The whole process was lost in a quagmire of bureaucracy. The victims were told to get no dues certificate and other carry out other paper works done before getting eligible to access the loan amount.

Present procedure is very cumbersome in as much a person has to get no dues certificate from 21 banks before his loan application is considered. This problem could be largely sorted out if an individual could give an affidavit in this regard and the banks acted on it without insistence on no dues certificate, a senior state government official Ishwar Das had told the central panel.

Process still haunts family of victims

In a meeting last year, the government was still struggling to speed up the cases needs to be taken up by the welfare commissioner. Minutes of the meeting said: In-charge registrar informed that 443 ex-gratia cases were decided and a sum of Rs 7.93 crore has been awarded till end of August 2017. After discussion, it was decided that steps may be taken for expeditious disposal of ex-gratia cases.

As far as disposal of 336 tonnes Union Carbide waste is concerned, the bureaucratic muddle has delayed the entire process. In September last year, a Detailed Project Report (DPR) of remediation of Union Carbide site was prepared and shared with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). There is, however, no timeline when the project will be completed by the expert agencies. In 2010, Rs. 33.55 Crore was earmarked for carrying out various components of medical rehabilitation. 8 years down the line the unspent balance available is Rs 17.73 crore, which literally means half of the amount is unspent. The State government is now planning to utilize rs.7.94 Crore out of Rs 17.23 crore for up-gradation and moderation of modular occupational therapy complex for 4 gas Rahat Hospitals and construction of bone marrow transplant centre at Kamla Nehru Hospital. For social rehabilitation Rs 85.20 crore was allocated but only Rs. 45.05 Crore was utilized in the last 8 years. There also allegations that Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) manipulated the report on water quality in 42 gas affected localities. In an affidavit filed in the Court BMC claimed that samples were collected on 18 August 2018 to apply physical test, chemical test and bacteriological test. BMC said they found the samples to be within the prescribed parameters.

Bhopal Group for Information and Action (BGIA) has alleged that samples were manipulated. The organization claimed that the BMC officials collected samples of piped drinking water on 10 August 2018 and sent to State Research Laboratory under the Public Health Engineering Department.

The results were ready on 14 August and showed presence of faecal coliform in over 70 % of the samples. In two samples the faecal coliform, which is indicative of disease causing bacteria, was found to be 2400 times the permissible limit. This was clear evidence of contamination of drinking water with sewage. Following this adverse report, the same BMC officials secretly collected another round of samples from the same 42 communities on August 18 and sent them to their own Quality Control (Water) Laboratory whose results showed that all the samples were free from faecal coliform, BGIA alleged.The concatenation of the terms 'Brahmanical' and 'patriarchy' somehow implies that upper-caste hegemony is a cause or perpetuator of patriarchy  a very problematic notion, given the universal prevalence of the latter for much of human history even in societies that lack the kind of Varna Vyavastha, which loosely translates to caste hierarchy, that characterised India.

Editor's note: A photo of Twitter CEO holding a poster that read "Smash Brahminical Patriarchy"  it was presented to him by activist Sanghapali Aruna during a meeting in Delhi  stirred up strong reactions on social media. Debates over how casteim and patriarchy operated in India ensued, as did discussions over whether or not Dorsey's posing with a poster was an example of hate speech, whether Brahmins were being targeted, and the semantics of the term Brahminical (or Brahmanical) patriarchy.

In this debate, we ask the question  'Is Brahmanical patriarchy just a slogan?' Arguing for the motion is New York-based data scientist Shrikanth Krishnamachary, who posits there's little 'intersectionality' between the phenomenon of Brahmanism and an important marker of female emancipation  education.

Read the counterpoint to this debate by Vasudha Katju here.

***

Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey found himself in a firestorm of controversy recently after a photo of him at a Delhi event holding a placard that read Smash Brahminical Patriarchy went viral.

The phrase Brahminical patriarchy triggered a huge debate. Commentator Barkha Dutt defended the use of the term with a tweet saying: Brahmanical patriarchy is a fair and entirely mainstream phrase in the way that we now know the intersectionality of feminism and the critique of upper caste hegemony.

Read on Firstpost: 'My poster in Jack Dorsey's hands wasn't the point; real threat to trolls was me seeking safety of oppressed on Twitter'

The other side accused Dorsey of hate speech, racism and singling out Brahmins. Still others tried to distinguish Brahmins, the community, from Brahmanical, which is a widely used term that defies a straightforward definition. It is used in at least three senses:

1. It may merely mean pertaining to the Brahman varna

2. It is sometimes used to refer to the ancient Vedic religion (pre-500 BCE) that allegedly was distinct and distinguishable from the classical Hinduism that succeeded it

3. The third usage pertains to the perceived social, economic and intellectual dominance of the ritually high upper castes in Indian society.

Among the three, perhaps only the first one is hard to controvert and is straightforward enough. The other two are deeply contested.

The third one is particularly problematic, as it tends to view Brahmin as a proxy for upper castes and also presumes that the values projected by the Brahman varna or for that matter, the upper castes have a wide currency in Indian society.

Patriarchy is an easier word to understand. It is universal in character that typically implies a society where men hold most positions of power and women are excluded from it, for the most part, and are oppressed. Also patriarchy is hardly unique to India. It is a term that describes much of human history in the post-Neolithic age, with few exceptions.

So the concatenation of these two terms somehow implies that upper-caste hegemony is a cause or perpetuator of patriarchy  a very problematic notion, given the universal prevalence of the latter for much of human history even in societies that lack the kind of Varna Vyavastha, which loosely translates to caste hierarchy, that characterised India.

While a lot of arguments about the concatenation tend to be rhetorical, coupled with selective quotation from historical texts and scriptures to suit ones agenda, it is worthwhile to examine recent historical data to answer the question:

Is there an objective measure that can benchmark female emancipation in pre-independence India against that of another society at a similar stage of economic development, with an altogether different culture?

One readily available measure is the female literacy rate. Consider the 1931 Census, the last such exercise in British India, which published the results segmented by caste. How does the male-female differential in education in 1931 compare with the United Kingdom in 1500? (The reason for picking the UK of 1500 is because it was also a pre-industrial society with a per-capita income similar to that of India of 1931.)

UK Literacy : 1500 India Literacy : 1931 Male ~10% 15.60% Female ~2% 2.90% Multiplier - Male Literacy % / Female Literacy % 5 5.4

It is clear that if we compare the India of 1931 with a pre-industrial society like the UK of 1500, the ratio of male literacy rate to female is roughly the same. Based on these numbers, there is little ground for the supposition that Indian culture somehow was more inimical to educating women as compared to other agrarian cultures.

Now let us examine the numbers by caste in 1931. Is there any intersectionality at all between the much critiqued phenomenon of Brahmanism and female education?

Interestingly, we see that the multiplier as defined in the above table is in fact lower for the Brahmin varna as compared to the all-India average.

Literacy rates Female Male Multiplier India : Overall 2.90% 15.60% 5.4 Brahmins 9.60% 43.70% 4.6

Next, let us look at the multiplier of specific castes, and rank order them from best to worst  with a lower multiplier signalling more equitable educational attainment. This is not an exhaustive list.

We see that several Brahmin castes rank very high, with low multipliers relative to the general population. In contrast, communities with high multipliers include some Brahmin groups like those in the United Provinces and Rajputana, as well as non-Brahmin castes like the Lingayats, and Vokkaligas, which we dont usually regard as being Brahmanical.

Literacy rates Female Male Multiplier Baidya: Bengal 47.60% 77.70% 1.6 Nairs: Travancore/Cochin/Madras 27.60% 60.40% 2.2 Brahman: Mysore 34.40% 78.30% 2.3 Kayastha: Bengal 20.90% 57.10% 2.7 Brahman: Baroda 28.40% 78.00% 2.7 Brahman: Madras 28.60% 80.00% 2.8 Brahman: Bengal 21.60% 64.50% 3 Brahman: Bombay 23.10% 78.80% 3.4 Kayastha: United Provinces 19.10% 70.20% 3.7 Khatri: Punjab 11.40% 43.80% 3.8 Chetti: Madras 9.70% 44.70% 4.6 Lohana: Bombay 7.40% 47.00% 6.4 Brahman: Punjab 3.40% 26.80% 7.9 Maratha: Bombay 2.80% 22.30% 8 Jat: United Provinces 0.80% 8.10% 10.1 Brahman: United Provinces 2.50% 29.30% 11.7 Brahman: Bihar / Orissa 2.80% 35.60% 12.7 Lingayat: Mysore 2.20% 30.10% 13.7 Baniya: Punjab 3.40% 49.00% 14.4 Brahman: Rajputana 1.40% 23.70% 16.9 Mala: Madras 0.10% 1.60% 16 Ahir: United Provinces 0.10% 2.00% 20 Kuruba: Mysore 0.30% 6.80% 22.7 Vokkaliga: Mysore 0.50% 12.20% 24.4

There are two key takeaways from this study:

1. There is hardly a strong correlation between caste status and the degree of male advantage in education. The ratio of male to female literacy rates for India is hardly exceptional and quite comparable to that of other pre-industrial societies in history.

2. Second, while the male advantage varied greatly across geographies and caste, it has little to do with Brahmanism or the degree of sanskritisation of castes. In fact, several upper castes have very favourable (i.e. low) multipliers relative to national average.

Also read: What really happened at the meeting with Twitter's Jack Dorsey  An open chat, not a planned attack on Brahmins

This also raises serious questions on the wisdom of asserting the intersection of caste and gender-oppression and creating grand narratives linking patriarchy and upper caste hegemony. Such narratives may serve political ends but are far removed from our historical understanding.

Shrikanth Krishnamachary is a data scientist in financial services based in New York. He tweets @shrikanth_krishThe term 'Brahmanical patriarchy' describes how we live in societies that are shaped by gender, caste, and economic relationships, and in turn shape them through our decisions and actions.

Editor's note: A photo of Twitter CEO holding a poster that read "Smash Brahminical Patriarchy"  it was presented to him by activist Sanghapali Aruna during a meeting in Delhi  stirred up strong reactions on social media. Debates over how casteim and patriarchy operated in India ensued, as did discussions over whether or not Dorsey's posing with a poster was an example of hate speech, whether Brahmins were being targeted, and the semantics of the term Brahminical (or Brahmanical) patriarchy.

In this debate, we ask the question  'Is Brahmanical patriarchy just a slogan?' Arguing against the motion is Vasudha Katju, who teaches Gender Studies at Ambedkar University, Delhi. Katju points out that the term offers a meaningful way of talking about the relationships between gender, caste, the economy, and the state.

Read the counterpoint to this debate by Shrikanth Krishnamachary here.

***

To say that Brahmanical patriarchy is just a slogan implies that this term has no meaning: it is catchy and memorable, but doesnt convey anything. However, I find that Brahmanical patriarchy conveys ideas that are deep and complex. It describes how we live in societies that are shaped by gender, caste, and economic relationships, and in turn shape them through our decisions and actions.

Many of us know that women face various disadvantages in a society structured in ways that give men power while withholding it from women. We have seen statistics on sex ratios, on malnutrition, on violence; we hear of schemes to save the girl child or campaigns to prevent gender-based discrimination. We believe there should be equality between men and women.

We may relate to these ideas at a personal level. We have faced and witnessed sexism, harassment, domestic violence, discrimination. Often, a term like patriarchy does not teach us something new but rather affirms and gives a name to something we already knew.

Brahmanical patriarchy has a similar effect. It adds to our knowledge, and also gives us a language to identify and give voice to our experiences.

Brahmanical patriarchy is a way of talking about the relationships between gender, caste, the economy, and the state. These relationships have been examined by various scholars over the decades. Dr BR Ambedkar, in his 1916 paper, Castes in India, pointed to endogamy (the principle or custom of marrying within a particular group) as the basis of the caste system. Endogamy worked through the practices of sati, enforced widowhood, and girl marriage (what we today would term child marriage). Control over and regulation of womens sexuality is, in his account, the basis of the caste system.

Uma Chakravarti, who coined the phrase Brahmanical patriarchy, has examined how, in ancient India, the control of land (an economic asset) by certain caste groups, is maintained through similar regulations over womens sexuality which are sanctioned by the state. Padma Velaskar has described how, within the village economy, certain jobs and tasks are divided between women of different caste groups.

Brahmanical patriarchy does not mean patriarchy in Brahman castes. Rather, it refers to the particular form of patriarchy in societies organised on the basis of caste. While the term has been theorised through examinations of Brahmanical texts, it offers insights into current social practices.

All this might seem very abstract. Yet I have found that the term conveys ideas which help me to understand both my own life and the world around me.

Taking Brahmanical patriarchy seriously requires a shift in focus, away from ourselves as individuals, to ourselves as part of groups  families, castes, religious communities, genders, classes, nations. It requires us to acknowledge that our experiences are shaped not just by our being men or women, but by being men and women of certain castes, classes, and communities.

It requires us to think of how our actions reproduce those communities. It requires the recognition that our most personal decisions  what to study, what kind of a job to do, how to dress, what to eat, whom to marry, if and with whom to have children  have implications that go far beyond us. It requires me personally to think of why, while I was growing up, I never considered that I would have a job that required me to work with my hands. It makes me wonder why I have always assumed that a single woman who wants to be a mother would consider adoption before bearing a child.

Also read: The story of Jack (Dorsey) and the smashing (Brahmin) backlash, told in memes

'Brahmanical patriarchy' appeals to me because it makes me ask certain questions which I otherwise might not have asked. For example, why should governments that have overt commitments to combating violence against women, hesitate to criminalise marital rape? Why should they wish to prevent women from accessing an equitable division of household assets upon divorce? Why should families, hostels, and paying guest accommodations be interested in restricting womens mobility? What credence can we give to arguments that restrictions are placed on women for their own safety? Women students across the country have reported instances where hostels and PGs locked them out at night when they returned after the curfew. Did this make them safer? In another case, a PG owner refused to unlock the gate during an earthquake. Were the residents who remained trapped within the building safe?

The perspective that Brahmanical patriarchy offers is difficult to accept. We tend to think of ourselves as capable of making our own decisions and thinking for ourselves. Its hard to counterbalance this self-image with the idea that our tastes, desires, ambitions, choices, and decisions are shaped by wider social patterns that we often cannot even identify, let alone combat. Its even harder to accept that sometimes, we will identify these patterns, recognise the harm they do to us and to others, and yet not change.

Yet its strength is that points us in certain directions, which, if we take them seriously, will help us to examine our own lives. I do not use this term because it has all the answers. On the contrary, I appreciate it because it opens up the world in a new way  one that is challenging and painful, but might one day be liberating.

The writer teaches Gender Studies at Ambedkar University, DelhiSamajwadi Party spokesperson Abdul Hafiz Gandhi, while rebuking the condition of law and order, said that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has no time for governance in the state.

Lucknow: Subodh Kumar Singh, an inspector with the Uttar Pradesh Police posted in Bulandshahr, was shot dead by an unknown person when a mob turned violent in an alleged case of illegal slaughtering of cow on Monday morning near Chingrawati village, under Syana police station limits. Singh was the station house officer (SHO) at Syana Police Station.

The autopsy report of the slain SHO revealed that he was hit with a .32 bore bullet near his left eyebrow.

Bulandshahr district magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha, said, In the post mortem, gunshot injury has been confirmed to Late inspector Subodh Kumar Singh. Bullet entered near left eyebrow and is inside skull.

Singh was the SHO of Bisada Village in Dadri, infamous for the lynching of Mohammed Akhlaq over cow-related violence. He was the officer investigating Akhlaqs killing from 28 September, 2015 to 9 November, 2015, while the charge sheet in this case was filed by a different investigating officer in March, 2016. Singh was later transferred to Varanasi.

Two FIRs have been lodged, according to reports  one FIR has been filed against the alleged cattle slaughter and the other against the protests that took place on Monday. Here is the main FIR against 27 for inciting violence.

Mob fury over cow carcass

Earlier on Monday, reports from Bulandshahr said that Subodh was killed when he was hit with a stone by the outraged mob after they found bovine carcass in the farms near Chingrawati village, under the Syana Police Station limits.

Apart from the cop, a youth named Sumit was also killed in the violence. He was about 20 years old and was allegedly killed in police firing.

Uttar Pradesh additional director-general (ADG) Anand Kumar, in Lucknow, said that apart from the bullet injury, the postmortem report also revealed many other injury marks from hard and blunt objects on Singhs body. A special investigative team (SIT) has also been formed and inspector-general (IG) range from Meerut will probe into the entire gamut of issues about the incident, the ADG police told media.

The Opposition in Uttar Pradesh criticised the incident targeting the ruling BJP government.

Samajwadi Party spokesperson Abdul Hafiz Gandhi, while rebuking the condition of law and order, said that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has no time for governance in the state. He(Adityanath) is busy in election campaigning in other states, neglecting the responsibilities for which he has taken constitutional oath. Samajwadi Party wants government to concentrate on basic issues of governance and development.

Stones, and bullets flying around

Driver of the slain inspector, Ramashraya, said that the SHO was lying near a boundary wall from where he pulled him into the police vehicle, but the villagers attacked them throwing stones and shouting maaro maaro (hit him).

As everyone started to flee, I too fled from the spot, he said, adding that gunshots were being fired at the spot and the SHO was already hurt and he was trying to take him to the hospital.

Adityanath has ordered ADG (intelligence) SB Siradkar to probe the case and present the report within two days. He also expressed his condolence on the death of the police officer.

The Uttar Pradesh Police said on Twitter, Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh sacrificed his life to uphold law and order in the district. With his demise, we have lost one of our finest officers who will always be alive in our hearts as a hero.

The trouble in Syana started after villagers found some body parts of cow and its progeny in a jungle, the ADG said. Angry villagers and members of various Hindu groups brought the animal remains in tractor-trolley to the Chingarwathi police post and demanded action against the culprits. They raised slogans against the police administration and blocked the Bulandshahr-Garh highway.

District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha said police and senior officials tried to reason with the protesters but they refused to budge.

As Sub-divisional Magistrate Avinash Kumar Maurya arrived on the scene, protesters turned violent, pelting stones on policemen and indulging in arson. Jha said the police had to open fire in self-defence.

Meerut divisional commissioner Aneeta C Meshram went to the scene of violence to take stock of the situation. Jha said the situation in Syana is under control but tensed. Adityanath late on Monday announced a compensation of Rs 50 lakh for the kin of Singh.

With inputs from Varun Sharma

Authors are freelance writers and members of 101Reporters.comIn April 2017, the CBI had lodged a preliminary inquiry against Jain and others in a case of alleged money laundering to the tune of Rs 4.63 crore in 2015-2016.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed a chargesheet on Monday against Delhi home minister Satyendar Jain, his wife and business associates in disproportionate assets case registered against Jain, ANI reported.

The chargesheet was filed in Delhi's Patiala House Court.

On 29 November, the Ministry of Home Affairs granted a sanction of prosecution to indict Jain for allegedly acquiring assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. The case registered by the CBI on 24 August, 2017.

However, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had denied the charges and accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of misusing the CBI and the Income Tax Department, even as Jain, who holds several important portfolios, including health and public works development, had confirmed the news, tweeting: "The CBI has reached my home for searches."

In April 2017, the CBI had lodged a preliminary inquiry against Jain and others in a case of alleged money laundering to the tune of Rs 4.63 crore in 2015-2016.

The investigative agency had also questioned Jain in June 2017, accusing him of being involved in the crime through Kolkata-based companies Prayas Info Pvt Ltd, Akichand Developers and Mangalyatan Project Pvt Ltd, a charge he denied.

The inquiry against the minister was registered on the basis of evidence the CBI collected against him, claiming he was involved in money-laundering despite being a public servant.At his annual press conference, the Chief of Naval staff Admiral Sunil Lanba addressed several issues and made a number of announcements.

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba on Monday said the killing of American tourist John Allen Chau by the Sentinelese tribe in Andaman was not a failure of coastal security in the island, ANI reported. The navy chief said Chau arrived as a tourist in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and had the requisite permissions, adding that the Andaman and Nicobar Command was investigating the case.

At his annual press conference, the navy chief addressed several issues and also made a number of announcements. On the status of the trial of former naval officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, held captive in Pakistan over espionage charges, he said the navy was in touch with Jadhav's family and was providing them all assistance.

He announced that the Indian Navy was looking at inducting 56 warships and submarines, and the process to bring in a third aircraft carrier had been moved.

"This is apart from 32 warships under construction," he said.

Lanba also vowed to enhance the force's maritime capability, adding that the process for installing automated identification transponders on around 2.5 lakh fishing boats had been started as part of efforts to enhance coastal security.

The admiral assured the country that the navy was keeping round-the-clock vigil on India's maritime domain.

Talking about the contract given to Reliance Naval Engineering Limited for five offshore patrol vehicles, he said: "We are looking into the contract... The bank guarantee for the deal has been encashed."

When asked about the status of the proposal to set up a base at the Seychelles' Assumption Island, he said talks were on with the government of the island nation.

Lanba added that with Maldives now with a favourable government, the two countries are set to strengthen their maritime cooperation.

With inputs from PTIAir forces of India and the US will begin a 12-day military exercise in Kalaikunda and Panagarh air bases in West Bengal from Monday with an aim to enhance operational coordination, officials said.

New Delhi: Air forces of India and the US will begin a 12-day military exercise in Kalaikunda and Panagarh air bases in West Bengal from Monday with an aim to enhance operational coordination, officials said.

The 'Ex Cope India-18' will be the fourth edition in the series of bilateral drills between the Indian Air Force and the US Air Force. This is for the first time, the exercise is being held at two air force bases, the officials said.

"The aim of the exercise is to provide operational exposure and undertake mutual exchange of best practices towards enhancing operational capability," the IAF said in a statement.

The US has sent a fleet of F15 C/D and C-130 military aircraft, The exercise will host more than 40 aircraft including F-15 and C-130H aircraft of USAF. The IAF is participating with the Su-30 MKI, Jaguar, Mirage 2000, C-130J and AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) aircraft.

#CopeIndia2018 :The USAF fighter aircraft F-15 arrived at AFS Kalaikunda, 01 Dec 18. The exercise will host more than 40 aircraft including F-15 & C-130H aircraft of USAF.

The IAF contingent will comprise of Su-30MKI, Mirage-2000, Jaguars, IL-78, C-130J, AWACS & AEW&C aircraft. pic.twitter.com/A26xCEnV3Z  Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) December 2, 2018

The Cope India exercise is being held after a gap of eight years, with the last one having taken place in 2010. The US and Indian air forces are enhancing their overall cooperation as part of deepening of defence and security ties between the two countries. US President Donald Trump, in his first prime-time televised address to the nation as commander-in-chief last year, had laid out his South Asia policy saying a "critical part" of it was to further develop the USA's strategic partnership with India.

In June 2016, the US had designated India a "Major Defence Partner" intending to elevate defence trade and technology sharing with India to a level commensurate with that of its closest allies and partners.Justice Kurian Joseph was part of the group of four Supreme Court judges, who on 12 January, 2018 held a press conference and accused the then Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra of assigning important cases to select few judges and raised serious doubts on the functioning of Supreme Court under his leadership.

Do the high courts of respective states constitute an integral part of higher judiciary? If yes, the assertion by the former Supreme Court judge Kurian Joseph that allegations of corruption in higher judiciary is unfounded, comes as a surprise.

In an interview, Justice Joseph  who retired on 30 November said, "I will never really agree that there's corruption in higher judiciary. If it is in the lower judiciary, it is the state's concern. In the higher judiciary, it has not come to my notice."

Justice Joseph was part of the group of four Supreme Court judges, who on 12 January, 2018 held a press conference and accused the then Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra of assigning important cases to select few judges and raised serious doubts on the functioning of Supreme Court under his leadership.

Speaking to The Times of India, Joseph also said, "CJI Dipak Misra was being controlled from outside and was allocating cases to judges with political bias." While the allegations made by him are debatable, what surprises the most is Joseph's ignorance who is well aware of external forces controlling Misra and the the corruption in higher judiciary.

In an article published in The Asian Age in 2007, Justice VR Krishna Iyer said that corruption and decline now creeping into the vitals of the Higher Courts and the urgent need to arrest this trend.

Eminent jurist Fali Nariman in his book The State of The Nation wrote, The sin of corruption is not confined to politicians, ministers and bureaucrats. In India it has infiltrated into all organs of the state  with one difference: whereas the media, print and electronic, is not constrained when questioning or publicizing wrongdoing amongst public officials (expect for the sanctions imposed by the general law of defamation), the same is not the case with regard to questioning alleged lapses of good conduct amongst the judges in the higher judiciary. These judges enjoy almost complete protection under the law of contempt: laws that are administered and interpreted solely and finally by the judges themselves.

Apart from these observations by legal luminaries there are recorded cases of alleged corruption against judges of higher judiciary.

In 2016, sixty-one Rajya Sabha members moved a petition seeking the proceeding to remove Justice CV Nagarjuna Reddy of the Andhra Pradesh/Telangana high court. The allegations made against him included disproportionate income and atrocities against members of scheduled castes. Again, in May 2017, 54 Rajya Sabha members moved a petition for his removal for alleged interference in the judicial process and hurling casteist abuses against a junior dalit judge. On both occasions, the bid to impeach him failed.

The case of Soumitra Sen is well-known. The former Calcutta high court judge was found guilty of misappropriating '33.23 lakh under his custody as a court-appointed receiver in the capacity as a lawyer, and misrepresenting facts before a Kolkata court in a 1983 case. The Rajya Sabha had already passed the motion for his impeachment when he resigned from his post.

The CBI charged the former judge of Punjab and Haryana High Court Nirmal Yadav in a corruption case. A bag containing Rs 15 lakh was delivered at the residence of justice Nirmaljit Kaur of the same court in 2008  by mistake; it was allegedly meant for Nirmal Yadav. Now retired, she is facing trial.

PD Dinakaran who was the former chief justice of the Sikkim high court was accused of amassing huge assets and land and his hometown, Arakkonam, which were disproportionate to his known income and more than what was fixed by the Tamil Nadu Land reforms. The Rajya Sabha chairman had set up a judicial panel to look into allegations of corruption, but he resigned in July 2011, before impeachment proceedings could be initiated.

V Ramaswami was the first Supreme Court judge against who impeachment proceedings were initiated was accused of incurring ostentatious expenditure on his official residence during his tenure as chief justice of the Punjab and Haryana high court. The motion for his removal was put on voting in 1993 but was defeated in Lok Sabha.

Shamit Mukherjee was the Delhi high court judge in 2003 when CBI arrested him for his alleged role in a multi-crore land scam involving the DDA. In 2008, a Delhi court framed charges against Mukherjee and four others.

These cases are the only ones which came to light and therefore officials could take action. Beyond this, lie many more cases of alleged corruption which will never be even talked about as the law of contempt dissuades whistleblowers in highlighting these cases.

Nariman in his book writes, The role of media in India in highlighting judicial corruption in the higher judiciary (or some other wrongdoing of one of its members) has drawn a blank. We have to try different measures to root out judicial corruption (or rather, root out manifest perceptions of it); first of all, we must try to shame the (few) members. How do we do this? It is the lawyers who have to do it, not with a view of exposing skeletons in the cupboards but for the good of the institution (the judiciary) and for the cleansing effect that transparent always have."

While the concern of Justice Jospeh in insulating the apex court from any outside influence is understandable and appreciable, it goes without saying that in same measure he should also try to prevent the rot from within; that starts and ends with corruption.

And, that shall start with acceptance of malice that has crept in higher judiciary, rather than giving it the cleanest chit possible.Retired Supreme Court judge Justice Kurian Joseph while defending his and three other senior Supreme Court judges' decision to hold a press conference on 12 January, has said that they felt that the then Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dipak Misra was being 'controlled from outside' and was allocating cases to judges with political bias.

Former Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra was being controlled from outside and was allocating cases to judges with political bias, said retired Supreme Court judge Justice Kurian Joseph. Defending the decision to hold the January 2018 press conference, where along with him Justices Jasti Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi and Madan B Lokur decided to go public against the functioning of the judiciary under Misra.

Joseph, who demitted office as a Supreme Court judge on Friday, said that the Supreme Court was not headed in the right direction under former CJI Misra. Joseph and three other senior judges of the top court had held a first of its kind press conference on 12 January, 2018 and said that "unless Supreme Court is preserved, democracy will not survive." They had alleged faulty assignment of cases and sensitive cases being allotted to junior judges by Justice Misra.

While speaking to journalists, Justice Joseph said he had no regrets regarding the press conference held on 12 January. Joseph, the third senior-most judge of the Supreme Court retired from the top court on Thursday after a five-and-a-half-year tenure.

In an interview with The Times of India, Joseph said that he and Justices Jasti Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi and Madan B Lokur felt that there were several instances of external influences on the working of the Supreme Court, especially those relating to the allocation of cases to benches headed by select judges and appointment of judges in both the apex court as well as the high courts.

Joseph said all the four judges met Misra and also wrote to him regarding independence and the majesty of the Supreme Court. However, when all attempts failed, they decided to hold a press conference." "Justice Chelameswar was the initiator of the idea of press conference. But we three agreed with him," he is quoted as saying in the report.

At the press conference held at the start of this year, the judges had not only questioned the functioning of Misra but also raised questions on the way the hearing of a petition seeking probe into the alleged suspicious death of judicial officer BH Loya was assigned to a bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra.

Joseph, who in his tenure of five years and eight months, had disposed of 8,612 cases and wrote over 1,000 detailed judgments, earlier said that the top court was not going in the right direction under Misra, ANI reported. We pointed that the Supreme Court was not going in right direction. Many aspects we brought in the notice of the then Chief Justice (Misra) to put things on the proper path. Since there was no result, we thought there was no other option but to bring it to the notice of the nation, he was quoted a saying.

There was one other reason. My position has always been that there are two watchdogs, one of which is the media. We came out to let there be an awareness that we have done our best. Despite barking the master is in deep slumber. So we decided to bite, he added, expressing no regrets about conducting the controversial briefing.

When asked whether the crisis to which they had referred was now over in the apex court, Joseph said, "You can't say it fully that the crisis is over because it was an institutional crisis, so it takes a long time for the systems and the practices to change. Hopefully, it would change". However, referring to CJI Gogoi, Joseph said, "It's because one who was part of the clamour for change is also now the captain over there so things should change".

Meanwhile, Joseph while speaking to Hindustan Times on the allegations of corruption in the judiciary said that the allegations were unfounded. He said, I will never really agree that there is corruption in higher judiciary. If it is in the lower judiciary, it is the states concern. In the higher judiciary, it has not come to my notice.

With inputs from PTIA massive fire broke out in near Infinity IT Park in Mumbai's Goregaon area. The spot is an open plot adjacent to Arun Kumar Vaidya Marg in Goregaon.

A massive fire broke out in near Infinity IT Park in Mumbai's Goregaon area. The spot is an open plot adjacent to Arun Kumar Vaidya Marg in Goregaon which is in the vicinity of Aarey Colony, the biggest green lung in the metropolis.

The blaze was noticed on one of the forested hills in Habalpada, near the famed Film City, and it quickly spread to an estimated four kilometres.

Fire brigade control room received the information about the blaze at 6.30 pm, an official told PTI, adding that fire engines and two water tankers have been rushed to the spot. Efforts are currently underway to douse the blaze.

A level 3 was declared. Speaking to Firstpost, a fire official said, "While vehicles cannot move into the forest, we are making attempts to douse the blaze in some areas whichthe vehicles can access."

Visible from long distances including the Western Express Highway, there were no reports of human casualties in the conflagration so far, the cause of which is not known.

The fire took place near Sanjay Gandhi National Park region, which has a variety of big and small wildlife including leopards, peacocks, deers, hogs, besides a variety of insects, birds and plant life.

The Disaster Management Control Room was asked to intimate all police stations surrounding the forest area to evacuate the place of people and cattle.

Video credit: Rajeev BR

With inputs from agenciesThe accused in the Gujarat police constable exam paper leak have been identified as Manhar Patel, Roopal Sharma, PV Patel and Mukesh Chaudhary.

Gandhinagar (Gujarat): Four people were arrested on Monday in connection with the paper leak of police constable recruitment test in Gujarat's Ahmedabad city.

The accused have been identified as Manhar Patel, Roopal Sharma, PV Patel and Mukesh Chaudhary. Patel and Chaudhary are Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers who have been suspended by the party.

Addressing a press conference, Gandhinagar Superintendent of Police (SP) Mayur Chavda said: "Four people Manhar Patel, Roopal Sharma, PV Patel and Mukesh Chaudhary have been arrested in connection with the paper leak. Mukesh Chaudhary and Manhar Patel are BJP workers and have been suspended by BJP".

"PV Patel is Police sub-inspector in DG office and has been suspended. Roopal Sharma is rector of a hostel," he added.

Chavda further informed that prime conspirator Yashpal Sinh Solanki from Lunavada, who works in Vadodara Municipal Corporation, is absconding.

On Sunday, the Gujarat police recruitment board cancelled a written exam for the recruitment of police constables after the paper leak incident.

Lok Rakshak Recruitment Board (LRRB) Chairman and Additional Director General of Police (DGP) Vikas Sahay had informed that the examination was called off after it came to light that the paper had got leaked.

Sahay further said that the whole matter would be investigated and action will be taken against the people involved.

Over 8.76 lakh candidates were scheduled to appear for the exam for 9,713 posts at 2,440 examination centres across the state.Jammu and Kashmir Police said the truck was transporting cows and buffaloes in Pathwal village of Hiranagar area.

Jammu: Police used batons and tear smoke to disperse protesters on Monday after cow vigilantes torched a truck carrying bovine animals in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district - after setting them free.

J&K: Mob sets truck carrying bovines ablaze in Kathua pic.twitter.com/Vb2aA1yI72  TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) December 3, 2018

Police said the truck was transporting cows and buffaloes in Pathwal village of Hiranagar area.

The driver and helper of the truck escaped after abandoning it when a mob stopped the vehicle alleging that bovine animals were being carried for smuggling.

The protesters freed the animals and later torched the truck.

"The protesters tried to block the Jammu-Pathankot highway. Police used batons and tear smoke to clear the highway," a police officer said.Imran Khan stated that that the Kartarpur Corridor was not a 'googly' and that the invite to the Indian ministers was a simple and sincere effort to maintain good relations.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday appeared to distance himself from Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi's comment that he bowled a "googly" to ensure Indian government's presence at the groundbreaking ceremony of the landmark Kartarpur Corridor. He stated that that the Kartarpur Corridor was not a "googly" and that the invite to the Indian ministers was a simple and sincere effort to maintain good relations with India.

#NewsAlert -- Pakistan's PM @ImranKhanPTI rubbishes Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on his Googly remarks. Imran Khan said that Kartarpura corridor was not a googly. #KartarpurCorridor | @SiddiquiMaha with more details pic.twitter.com/YZCBYodVrY  News18 (@CNNnews18) December 3, 2018

Qureshi also defended his comment on Sunday, saying that linking his remarks to "Sikh sentiments" was misleading.

Qureshi, while making the comment on Thursday, noted that it was the same Indian government that had said it will not engage with Pakistan sent two ministers to the groundbreaking ceremony. He said a meeting with Indian counterpart Swaraj was fixed on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) last year but it was cancelled by India.

Khan on last Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Corridor linking two revered gurdwaras on both sides of the border. Union ministers from India, Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri, along with Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu, attended the event in Pakistan Punjab province's Narowal area.

Qureshi's remarks drew strong criticism from External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, who came down heavily on her Pakistani counterpart saying his comments "exposed" him and that Pakistan has "no respect for Sikh sentiments". Qureshi took to Twitter on Sunday to respond to the criticisms.

"Dragging my comment towards 'Sikh sentiments' is a deliberate attempt to misrepresent and mislead. What I said was strictly with reference to bilateral interaction with the Indian government," he tweeted. "We have deep respect for Sikh sentiments and no amount of distortions or controversies would change it," he said.

Qureshi also said the Kartarpur Corridor was opened to fulfil the desires of the Sikh community. "In deference to the long-standing desires of our Sikh brethren, we decided to open the Kartarpur Corridor. We have taken this historic initiative in good faith and will carry it forward in good faith," he tweeted.

Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal also took exception to Qureshi's remarks and warned Pakistan that it should not use the Kartarpur Corridor issue and religion to fulfil its "evil designs" of vitiating the peaceful atmosphere in India and particularly in Punjab. She said the issue was a matter of faith and there is no scope for "one-upmanship" and "petty politics" on it.

With inputs from PTIOn Thursday, Qureshi had said Prime Minister Imran Khan bowled a 'googly' to ensure Indian government's presence at the groundbreaking ceremony of the landmark Kartarpur Corridor. A googly is a leg-spinner's prize weapon, which is almost undetectable.

Islamabad: Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday defended his controversial "googly"comments, which drew sharp criticism from India, saying that linking his remarks to "Sikh sentiments" was misleading.

On Thursday, Qureshi had said Prime Minister Imran Khan bowled a "googly" to ensure Indian government's presence at the groundbreaking ceremony of the landmark Kartarpur Corridor. A googly is a leg-spinner's prize weapon, which is almost undetectable.

Qureshi noted that it was the same Indian government that had said it will not engage with Pakistan sent two ministers to the groundbreaking ceremony. Khan on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Corridor linking two revered gurdwaras on both sides of the border in Kartarpur in Punjab province.

Union ministers from India, Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri, along with Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu, attended the event in Pakistan Punjab province's Narowal area.

Qureshi's remarks drew strong criticism from External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, who came down heavily on her Pakistani counterpart saying his comments "exposed" him and that Pakistan has "no respect for Sikh sentiments". Qureshi took to Twitter on Sunday to respond to the criticisms.

"Dragging my comment towards 'Sikh sentiments' is a deliberate attempt to misrepresent & mislead. What I said was strictly with ref to bilateral interaction with the Indian Govt," he tweeted. "We have deep respect for Sikh sentiments and no amount of distortions or controversies would change it," he said.

Qureshi also said the Kartarpur Corridor was opened to fulfil the desires of the Sikh community. "In deference to the long-standing desires of our Sikh brethren, we decided to open the Kartarpur Corridor. We have taken this historic initiative in good faith and will carry it forward in good faith," he tweeted.

Earlier in a series of tweets on Saturday, Swaraj said,"Mr. Foreign Minister of Pakistan - Your 'googly' remarks in a dramatic manner has exposed none but YOU. This shows that you have no respect for Sikh sentiments. You only play 'googlies'." "Let me explain to you that we were not trapped by your 'googlies'. Our two Sikh Ministers went to Kartarpur Sahib to offer prayers in the Holy Gurudwara," she said.

Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal also took exception to Qureshi's remarks and warned Pakistan that it should not use the Kartarpur Corridor issue and religion to fulfil its "evil designs" of vitiating the peaceful atmosphere in India and particularly in Punjab. She said the issue was a matter of faith and there is no scope for "one-upmanship" and "petty politics" on it.

"Going to Sri Kartarpur Sahib was a matter of faith for me. Indulging in one-upmanship on this sacred issue is uncalled for. No one was bowled over by any 'googly'. PM Modi and ministers have only respected sentiments of Sikhs by authoring and participating in this noble initiative," she said on Friday. "If you think you will be able to fulfil your evil designs by misusing our religion, you are mistaken...do not use religion to fulfil your evil intentions," she said.The Kerala governments decision to rally one million women to carry forward the renaissance movement that helped create a new social order has sparked a controversy.

The Communist Party of India (Marxist)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) governments decision to rally one million women to carry forward the renaissance movement that helped create a new social order in Kerala has sparked a controversy, with Opposition parties and a section of community and social organisations terming it a political stunt by the ruling front.

The decision to rally the women in a human wall from the northern district of Kasargode to the state capital of Thiruvananthapuram on 1 January was taken at a meeting of nearly 170 social and community organisations called by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan last week with the avowed objective of protecting the values of renaissance and gender equality.

The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) and the Bharatiya Janata Party, as well as upper caste organisations, have viewed the proposed women wall as a tactical move to implement the Supreme Court verdict allowing women of all ages to enter the Sabarimala temple in the name of renaissance.

BJP spokesman JR Padmaukumar said that the government had solicited the support of community organisations for the proposed women wall by misguiding them that it was intended to protect the values of the renaissance movement.

No one is against reforms, but most of the organisations had attended the meeting without realising the governments hidden agenda. I dont think any of the Hindu organisations that agreed to associate with the women wall will support the government in implementing the Supreme Court verdict, he added.

Curiously, the Hindu Parliament, which consists of 70 Hindu organisations, claimed to have made this clear in the meeting itself. Its secretary CP Sugadan is the joint convenor of the women wall. He said that his organisation will continue to resist the entry of young women in Sabarimala.

The chairman of the general council formed to steer the movement is Vellappally Natesan, general secretary of Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam, a socio-cultural organisation of the backward Ezhava caste that openly opposed womens entry in Sabarimala.

SNDP vice-president Thushar Vellappally was the vice-captain of the Sabarimala Samrakshana Yatra that the BJP undertook opposing the entry of young women in Sabarimala. Thushar is the president of the Bharat Dharma Jana Sena, a political arm of the SNDP, and convenor the National Democratic Alliance led by the BJP.

The Vaikunta Swamy Dharma Pracharana (VSDP) Sabha and Dheevara Sabha, two powerful outfits which attended the meeting, had also expressed their dissent over the programme at the meeting convened by the chief minister. Some other organisations that attended the meeting were involved in physically preventing women from entering the Sabarimala temple. Padmakumar, therefore, considers the women wall to be a farce being played by the CPM for its political gains.

The Nair Service Society (NSS), a socio-cultural organisation of the upper caste Nair community which spearheaded the protests against womens entry in Sabarimala and a prominent participant in the renaissance movement in the 1930s, stayed away from the meeting, terming the women wall as part of a deliberate attempt to re-establish the caste divide in the state for the political gains of the ruling front.

NSS general secretary G Sukumaran Nair said that the government had organised the meeting in the name of renaissance only after it failed to implement its agenda in Sabarimala. After the governments attempt to implement the Supreme Court order on the womans entry issue with the help of police failed to yield any results, it is now trying to implement it by building a caste-based divide in society by blaming the upper-caste hegemony for its failure, says Nair.

He said that the renaissance movement spearheaded by stalwarts like Sree Narayana Guru, Ayyankali and NSS founder Mannath Padmanabhan was against discrimination based on caste and religion in the society, unethical practices and superstition. The NSS general secretary said that the present move is aimed at resolving the Sabarimala issue by formenting a caste-based divide.

He said that the Sabarimala issue has nothing to do with renaissance, since the ban on entry of young women in the temple is based on rituals as well as faith in God. Any attempt to deal with the issue by creating a wedge between caste groups would do more harm to the state, he added.

Congress MLA and Opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala alleged that the proposed women wall was part of a deliberate attempt by the LDF to gain political mileage from the Sabarimala issue. He termed the move a sugar-coated poison that will divide people along communal and caste lines.

The chief minister said that the women wall was against regressive forces trying to turn the state into a "lunatic asylum."

KN Balagopal, CPM state secretariat member, said that the human wall was intended to rally all the organisations with the renaissance heritage against any attempt to negate the gains of the movement. He said that the intention of the movement is not for entry of women in temples but against the forces trying to use it for their narrow gains.

He claimed that the decision to create the women wall was a natural reaction by women against the attacks on those supporting the Supreme Court verdict. He said that the right-wing forces had created mayhem by attacking not only those who tried to go to Sabarimala, but also those who expressed their interest in doing so, and those who supported them. This is a clear violation of their right to movement, he added.

Well-known orator and thinker Sunil P Ilayidom justified the decision to create the women wall, and said that gender equality was an important component of the renaissance movement. He termed the move the result of the growing public consciousness about the gender equality implicit in the Supreme Court verdict.

The renaissance movement lost steam following changes in the conditions in the society. The Supreme Court verdict is an ideal condition for reviving the movement. However, I dont consider the Supreme Court verdict as the sole provocation for the movement. It is the culmination of various campaigns for gender equality, he added.

He further remarked, The public conscience in Kerala is in favour of the Supreme Court verdict. The organisations which opposed the verdict initially may have corrected their stance, said Ilayidom, whose office at the Kalady Sanskrit University was attacked after he spoke in support of the verdict.

Ilayidom believes that the women wall will turn out to be a landmark in the history of the renaissance movement in the state.The incident happened Monday morning in Rahanal village in Bhiwandi township here and four fire engines had to be deployed to douse the flames, Datta Salvi, Chief Fire Officer, Bhiwandi-Nizampur Municipal Corporation, said.

Thane: A clash between two groups of workers Monday led to the burning down of a godown storing plastic material in Maharashtra's Thane district, police said.

The incident happened Monday morning in Rahanal village in Bhiwandi township here and four fire engines had to be deployed to douse the flames, Datta Salvi, Chief Fire Officer, Bhiwandi-Nizampur Municipal Corporation, said.

He said no one was injured in the incident but the godown was reduced to ashes. Police said the fire was the result of a fight between two groups of people working in the godown.

"We are in the process of registering an offence and further probe is underway," said Senior Inspector SD Jadhav of Narpoli police station.WHY DONT YOU READ THESE?The theory published in a book says that pain waves originating from animals being slaughtered can lead to a similar destructive outcome such as an earthquake.

Dr Madan Mohan Bajaj is not an animal welfare activist. He neither tries to stop cruelty, nor does he protest or go to court. He is the director general of International Scientific Research & Welfare Organisation and chief of the medical physics, immunophysics, nuclear biophysics and biomedical engineering research laboratory of the Department of Physics and Astrophysics of the University of Delhi, where he has been teaching since 1968.

Author of more than 300 research papers, he is a fellow of Indian Society of Genetics & Plant Breeding , Indian Academy of Medical Physics, American Chemical Society, Physical Society of Japan, Japan Society for Medical Electronics and Biomedical Engineering, Bangladesh Physical Society, Physical Society of Nepal, Asian Physical Society, Indian Society for Cancer Chemotherapy, Indian Society for Cancer Research, Mathematical Association of India, Society of Physiologists and Pharmacologists of India. He was the secretary of the Indian Academy of Medical Physics and the chairman of several symposia organised by the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India.

Dr Bajaj has guided 18 PhD students and eight MPhil students and helped two DSc students. He has also co-authored 15 scientific books, is the founder of the Mahatma Gandhi School for the Children of Leprous Families.

In short, he is a hardcore scientist and a humanitarian.

Bajaj has co-authored a book with other well-known physicists, putting forward a new and interesting point of view. He co-authored Etiology of Earthquakes A New Approach along with Ibrahim and Vijayraj Singh, and their work was published by HB Prakashan, Indore. It is based on a research thesis presented in June 1995 at an international scientist conference held in Sudal, Russia.

So far, predicting earthquakes has been almost impossible, since humans still don't know what causes them. The authors claim that the concentrated creation of pain and fear caused by the non-stop killing of animals, birds and fish is what creates earthquakes. They claim that pain creates actual physical waves.

Of course, the theory will be dismissed by geologists, who guard their domains jealously. And, of course, it will be laughed at by other scientists. But remember this: driverless cars, cordless telephones, meat made by the multiplication of cells, sea waves that generate electricity and a million other such things were once laughed-at theories.

Uri Geller, who is world famous because he uses the power of his mind to bend spoons, is now one of many who can do the same. Schools to develop mind power have sprung up all over the world, from Russia to Italy, and I have seen some of them. In India, we have so many "swamis" who cure diseases and change destinies by concentrating on them.

How does one explain the power of thought? The closest thing to a rational explanation I got was from the film Lucy made by Luc Bresson in 2014. What we called coincidence  when we think of someone and they call in a few minutes  is also called synchronicity. It is a concept first introduced by the legendary analytical psychologist Carl Jung, which holds that events are "meaningful coincidences" if they occur with no causal relationship yet seem to be meaningfully related. Jung used the concept in arguing for the existence of the paranormal, but added that "with our present resources, it is impossible to explain Extra Sensory Perception".

Does the mind generate waves of energy? The story goes that when Swami Vivekananda approached Chicago, he pointed at a particular area in the distance which, according to him, had a thick black cloud of sadness on it. It was the stockyard, or slaughterhouse, the largest in America, where cattle were brought to be killed. Was the miasma caused by the waves of despair and suffering?

Jung is not the only scientist of world acclaim who believes in what is now called "the paranormal" (or what will be the new "normal" in a few years). Albert Einstein, the father of modern science, also propagated the Einsteinian Pain Waves (EPW) Theory, in the realm of geology.

The BIS (Bajaj-Ibrahim-Singh) Theory claims to be a development on Einstein's EPW. On the basis of the evidence, the authors have gathered that it is possible to correlate the cause of earthquakes with the concentrated genocide of animals.

Why and when do earthquakes happen? No one knows. So this theory is as good as any. Maybe future seismology scientists will "prove" what the "rishis" have been saying for centuries  that the universal mind is the most powerful instrument of all.

The book collates reports from across the world where earthquakes have taken place and where millions of animals have been butchered, or near high-risk seismic zones.

The Einstein pain wave theory says that while primary and secondary waves move quickly, pain waves build up pressure over a period of time and then, when they reach flash point, the crust of the earth breaks and reacts in the form of an earthquake.

The book claims to have studied the complex role of nociceptive waves in a sentient body  intense chemical (chilli powder in the eyes), mechanical (cutting, crushing), or thermal (heat, cold) stimulation of sensory nerve cells called nociceptors. These nociceptors produce a signal that travels along a chain of nerve fibres via the spinal cord to the brain, resulting in the experience of pain. Nociceptors require a minimum intensity of stimulation before they trigger a signal to the nervous system. Once this threshold is reached, a signal is passed along.

The authors claim that the same kind of pain waves are generated and passed along the crust of the earth by the immense noise and tension generated by animals on the verge of being butchered. These waves result in cracks in the crust in a certain direction, or seismic anisotropy.

Acoustic anisotropy, or the effect on the crust caused by sound, is what the authors claim causes earthquakes. While people hardly feel low-frequency resonances, earthquakes high on the Richter Scale originate due to the slaughter of millions of animals daily for years together.

The authors say that sound waves put great stress on rock. The daily butchering of thousands of animals continually, for several years, generates acoustic anisotropy due to the Einsteinian Pain Waves (EPW) dying animals emanate. The book claims that since the EPW travel a great distance with time, abattoirs of one country may lead to havoc in another country.

Their theory is that large-scale abattoir activity is the causative agent for major earthquakes. The authors have given the examples of the Latur (Khillari) earthquakes in Utterkashi, Assam; the earthquakes of Northridge (1994), Long Beach (California - 1933), Landers (California - 1992), San Francisco (1906), New Madrid (Missouri - 1811-12) in the US; Russia's Neftegorsk (1995) earthquake finds a major mention; and the Kanto (1923), Nobi (1891), Kita-Tango (1927), Sankiru Tsunami (1933), Shizuoka (1935), Tonankal (1944), Nankai (1948), Fukui (1948), Off-Tokachi (1952), Kjta-Mino (1961), Nigata (1964), Off-Tokachi (1968), Kobe (1995) earthquakes in Japan.

The massive slaughter of animals at Gadhimai and the Nepal earthquake have all been described to demonstrate a pattern.

Could this be possible? Why not? For years scientists laughed at Einstein's theory of gravitational waves, propounded in 1916. But in February 2016, a hundred years later when instruments had been developed, US scientists announced that they had detected, heard and measured gravitational waves, a landmark scientific discovery that is important in furthering our understanding of the universe.

Gravitational waves are faint ripples in the space-time fabric, created by massive movements in the universe such as two black holes colliding, or massive stars exploding. The signal that the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) caught was produced by two merging black holes. Since gravitational waves are not absorbed, or reflected, by matter, they carry information on the motion of objects in the universe.

All through history, there have been scientists who have given concepts that were unknown and immeasurable at the time. In the 16th Century, Giordano Bruno claimed that the sun was just another star, and there were many worlds in the universe. He was burnt alive. US president Donald Trump still thinks that global warming is a myth.

Here is a common example from basic physics to help understand the possible destructive power of pain waves: An object 'A' has a natural frequency at which it vibrates freely. If another object 'B', in proximity to 'A', vibrates at the frequency equal to the natural frequency of 'A', then 'A' starts vibrating with much greater energy. This phenomenon is called resonance and can be potentially destructive for 'A'. The theory of resonance can be extended to pain waves, which could trigger the tectonic plates of the earth to vibrate, resulting in devastating earthquakes.

The Tacoma Narrows Bridge in the US was the first documented bridge to have collapsed (in 1940) because of this resonance effect. It was found that due to a design fault, the natural frequency of the bridge matched the frequency of airflow, which resulted in its destruction when the entire bridge began to vibrate because of the air flowing over it.

If a tiny vibration, at a specific frequency, can lead a bridge to vibrate as a whole, why can't the pain waves originating from animals being slaughtered lead to a similar destructive outcome such as an earthquake? The pain of an animal being slaughtered is a sudden release of a huge amount of life energy, probably a form of energy that we can't measure as of now.

Who knows when we will develop the technology that can measure collective pain and the frequencies at which it can cause mass destruction. Remember the Spanish proverb: "Toma lo quequieras y pagaporello, dice dios (take what you want and pay for it, says god)."

To join the animal welfare movement, contact gandhim@nic.in, or www.peopleforanimalsindia.orgThe security forces also recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition from their possession. The group was busted while infiltrating into India from their training camp in Myanmar. All nine cadres were nabbed in an ambush on their infiltration route.

Assam: In a joint operation, the Chirang Army of Red Horns Division, Assam Rifles and Jairampur Police have arrested nine cadres of the National Democratic Front of Boroland (Songbijit) {NDFB (S)} on Sunday while they were returning to Assam after completing their training in Myanmar.

The security forces also recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition from their possession. The group was busted while infiltrating into India from their training camp in Myanmar. All nine cadres were nabbed in an ambush on their infiltration route.

The Operation also resulted in the recovery of arms, ammunition including one AK 47 and one AK 56. The cadres along with seized items were handed over to police.

The arrested NDFB (S) cadres include Sulekha Brahma, Sumuriya Narzary, Rajesh Basumatry, Gaodang Mochahary, Rita Swrgary, Rotjona Narzary, Mani Ram Basumatary, Dillp Narzary and Binaram Narzary.The incident took place near the Chingrawathi crossing in Bulandshahr, where hundreds of people had gathered. The protesters entered into a scuffle with the local police.

Violence broke out in Bulandshahr on Monday over alleged illegal slaughter of cattle, leaving a police inspector and a youth dead as a mob went on a rampage torching a police post and clashed with police, which opened fire to control the situation, officials said.

The incident took place near the Chingrawathi crossing, where hundreds of people had gathered. The protesters entered into a scuffle with the local police and the crowd started pelting stones at them.

Additional Director-General of Meerut zone Prashant Kumar said the protesters from Mahaw village and nearby areas pelted stones on the police and indulged in arson, setting several vehicles and the Chingarwathi Police Chowki on fire.

Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh, who was posted at the Siana Police Station, died in the violence. He suffered a gunshot injury in addition to wounds from hard and blunt objects, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Anand Kumar said, citing a post-mortem report.

Inspector Singh was investigating officer in the Akhlaq lynching case of Dadri between 28 September, 2015 and 9 November, 2015, he said, replying to queries from reporters.

Police said Sumit (20) also died of gunshot injuries sustained during the violence.

As tension prevailed in the area following the violence that lasted nearly three hours, the Uttar Pradesh government deployed additional police, including over 1,000 personnel of anti-riot forces, and ordered multiple probes -- by SIT, ADG-Intelligence -- and a magisterial inquiry.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to probe the matter and submit a report to the Uttar Pradesh government at the earliest, an official spokesman said.

Video footage showed people attacking a police station with sticks and stones.

Yogi Adityanath assures action against guilty

Expressing grief over the incident, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who is in Rajasthan for election campaign, said strict action will be taken against the guilty after the probe reports are received. He also said financial assistance would be extended to the affected persons.

The Congress hit out at the chief minister saying he should first set his own house in order before "gallivanting" around the country for election campaign.

Protesters block highway, indulge in arson

The trouble started after villagers found some body parts of cow and its progeny in a jungle in Mahaw village, ADG Prashant Kumar said.

Angry villagers and members of various Hindu groups brought the animal remains in tractor-trolley to the Chingarwathi Police Chowki and demanded action against the culprits.

They raised slogans against the police administration and blocked the Bulandshahr-Garh highway.

District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha said police and senior officials tried to reason with the protesters but they refused to budge. As Sub-divisional Magistrate Avinash Kumar Maurya arrived on the scene, protesters turned violent, pelting stones on policemen and indulging in arson.

Jha added that the police had to open fire in self-defence.

Meerut divisional commissioner Aneeta C Meshram said she was rushing to the spot to take stock of the situation.

KB Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police, said, "No one will be allowed to disrupt law and order, and people doing so will be dealt with sternly."

Reinforcements rushed to spot

The ADG (law and order) said additional reinforcements -- 500 personnel of Rapid Action Force and 600 personnel of Provincial Armed Constabulary -- were rushed to the spot of violence and the situation was under control.

Jha said, "Some people took the bodies of the animals and tried to block the road. The policemen were attacked when they tried to get the road opened."

The violence started at around 10 am in Siana area in the district where a major three-day Islamic congregation had concluded this afternoon. The police warned against attempts to spread any misleading information, saying the incident was not related in any way to the congregation.

"The incident occurred 40-50 km away from the congregation site. Some miscreants were behind the violence and action is being taken against them in accordance with law," the Bulandshahr Police tweeted in the evening.

With inputs from agenciesTaking a dig at the BJP government, the RSS on Sunday wondered why an act cannot be passed for the construction of a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya while a huge statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel can be built in Gujarat.

Mumbai: Taking a dig at the BJP government, the RSS on Sunday wondered why an act cannot be passed for the construction of a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya while a huge statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel can be built in Gujarat.

Addressing a public rally, senior Sangh leader Dattatreya Hosabale said through a separate bench has been formed by the Supreme Court, which is hearing the Ayodhya title suits, no decision has been taken yet on the pending issue.

"If Sardar Patel's statue can be erected on the banks of the Narmada river (in Gujarat), why an act cannot be passed to build a giant Ram temple?" questioned Hosabale, the Sah Sarkaryavaah or Joint General Secretary of the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS).

He was speaking at a rally which was organised jointly by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and some regional religious outfits with an objective to mount pressure on the Centre for expediting construction of the Ram temple.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had inaugurated an imposing 182-metre statue of the country's first Home Minister, touted as the world's tallest, on 31 October at Sadhu Bet near Sardar Sarovar Dam in Narmada district.

"Former prime minister PV Narasimha Rao while speaking before the Supreme Court had stated that if the archaeological survey finds remains of a temple (at the site), the land would be made available for the temple. The excavation has found remains of the temple, but the court now says that this decision is not on its priority list," Hosabale said.

In his annual Vijaya Dashmi rally in Nagpur this October, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat had demanded a law to pave the way for construction of the temple in Ayodhya.

Hosabale said, "The SC has already formed a separate bench for the hearings on Ayodhya, still there has been no decision".

On 29 October, the apex court fixed the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute cases for the first week of January next year before an appropriate bench, which will decide the schedule of hearing.

Many Hindu organisations have been demanding construction of the Ram temple, as promised by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) before coming to power in 2014.

The saffron party has said that it was committed to the construction of the temple, but was silent on bringing an ordinance in Parliament for the purpose.

A three-judge bench of the Allahabad high court had in 2010 ordered that the 2.77 acres of the disputed land in Ayodhya be partitioned equally among three parties  the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla. As many as 14 appeals were filed against the high court judgment.Sudhakaran, known for his sharp tongue, made the observation at an inaugural speech at a cultural event in Alappuzha. The Minister has been cut up with the Sabarimala tantri family ever since they threatened to close down the temple in case a woman in the age group of 10 to 50 arrives to pray at the shrine in line with a Supreme Court verdict.

Alappuzha: Kerala PWD Minister and CPM leader G Sudhakaran on Sunday slammed the Sabarimala temple tantri saying the donkeys in the temple town have more grace.

Sudhakaran, known for his sharp tongue, made the observation at an inaugural speech at a cultural event in Alappuzha. The Minister has been cut up with the Sabarimala tantri family ever since they threatened to close down the temple in case a woman in the age group of 10 to 50 arrives to pray at the shrine in line with a Supreme Court verdict.

The members of the Kantararu family hold the tantric rights of the Sabarimala temple. The present chief tantri is Kantararu Rajeevaru and it was he who made the offending remark. Sudhakaran said they (tantris) do not appear to have any attachment or concern towards Lord Ayyappa.

"At the temple town, it is the donkeys that do most of the work. Till date, they have not gone on any protest. After their hard work, they take rest near the Pamba river. These donkeys have more grace than the tantri," said a fuming Sudhakaran. At the temple town, donkeys carry most goods from the base camp at Pamba to the hill temple.One of the speakers at TEDxGateway 2018, photojournalist Raghu Rai said, If journalism is the first draft of history then photo journalism is the witness to that history.'

Featuring four sessions packed with ideas on politics, humanities, environment and a plethora of other global and national issues, TEDxGateway hosted its 10th edition at DOME@NSCI Mumbai on 2 December, 2018.

The TEDx talks kicked off with global strategist and author Parag Khanna speaking to those gathered on Asias future, the subject of his upcoming book titled, The Future is Asian. According to Khanna, who addressed in some measure the continents growth through history, the correct way to understand how Asia is evolving is through waves of mutually reinforcing growth, rather than blocks of one empire dominating the other. Tracing Japans exponential growth following World War II, he said that it was its industrial model that inspired other Asian countries including South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and China to grow.

Khanna, however, added that this is not where the history stops, rather the greatest wave of Asias growth is just getting going. To explain his view, Khanna drew upon the recent Belt and Road initiative or the Silk Road which he referred to as, the largest coordinated infrastructure investment programme in the history of the world.

According to him, Asia is integrating like never before and what belts and road will ultimately do is return Asia to its natural state of multipolarity, a respectful degree of autonomy among Asias proud civilisations.

Also a part of the first session of Gateway was Shantha Rau Barriga who talked about the stigma associated with mental health by illustrating her own research experiences. According to Barriga, people with mental health disabilities are often the victims of exclusion and isolation.

Even as she declared that things are changing and that people with disabilities are driving this change, she said that mental illness continues to be a taboo primarily due to the actions and beliefs of society. She gave three reasons for these: shame, fear, pity. In India, for example, parents might hide the fact that one child has a disability because it might jeopardise the marriage prospects for other children.

Fear. Fear of what we dont know or understand, fear of someone who looks different or acts differently. Fear of what others might think, she said.

Pity. I often hear people say that someone is suffering from a disability. I have met so many people with disabilities around the world who are not suffering because of their physical or mental health condition. The suffering, the isolation, the abuse, the neglect they experience is because of how the society treats them.

Journalist Govindraj Ethiraj, architect Sameep Padora, educator Seema Bansal, innovator Dhruv Patel and photographer Levon Biss also spoke during the first session of the event.

The second session of TEDxGateway hosted the former president of Mauritius Ameenah Gurib-Fakim in conversation with Ralph Simon followed by the 12-year-old Haaziq Kazi who spoke extensively about plastic debt and its effect on marine life.

He explained the function of his invention ERVIS, designed to clean up the waste dumped in the ocean, and that it is in effect divided into chambers that segregate different kinds of oceanic waste. Just imagine ERVIS to be a gigantic vacuum cleaner with cleaning tubes attached to many dust bags, he said.

Also among the line-up for the second session were speakers Tom Wujec, Binish Desai, Prashant Warier and Madhumita Murgia.

The third session of the talks opened with a performance by Maati Baani, who collaborated with the Mongolian Music band Anda Union to create a blend of Hindustani with strains of folk tunes.

The session featured photographer Raghu Rai who explained the purpose of photography to be about capturing the time we will in.

If journalism is the first draft of history then photo journalism is the witness to that history, he noted.

He also highlighted the idea that while digital technology has transformed and simplified picture taking, there has also been a change in mindset.

According to Rai, today, The only missing aspect in the photograph is the heart, the power and the heartfelt response to the world we live in.

You know its said a good photograph is worth a 1,000 words. A 1,000 words can be a lot of noise. How about some silence? Because for me the greatest work of art, photography, film or music is the one that restores silence in you, a meditative experience that restores you to yourself, he concluded.

Horticulturist Dnyaneshwar Bodke also took to the stage in this session to speak about his initiative, Abhinav Farmers Club that works towards sustainable agriculture. Peace and conflict researcher Shahnaaz Khan discussed individual hate crime and sexual and identity-based violence as an attack on a community as a whole.

Also read: Horticulturist Dnyaneshwar Bodke shares his ideas on sustainable farming ahead of his TEDxGateway 2018 talk

In the fourth and last session of TEDxGateway 2018, speakers Mihir Shah, Gitanjali Rao, Shabana Basij-Rasikh and IPS officer Harssh Poddar also discussed their ideas.

Rao, a the13-year-old scientist and innovator, focused on innovation, describing it as a phenomenon which does not need a big R&D budget or a lot of resources, only the genuine drive and determination to make a difference in the community. Rao also drew the attention of the audience to the scarcity of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics or STEM. Change needs all of us, she said and pointed out that unfortunately there are fewer girls in STEM fields, not for want of capability but by all indications, due to the lack of motivation and support.

Perhaps the only man in uniform at the event, Poddar spoke about his calling, which was something greater than fear: duty.

And nowhere is duty more tested than in situations where our entire society is seized with widespread, violent fury, he said.

Poddar was delivering a talk on police and public relationship in the country and said that we need and deserve a police force that understands India, that understands religion, caste, politics, agriculture and it is only then that we can hope to be the largest democracy human history has ever seen.

The curator of the 10th edition of TEDxGateway, Yashraj Akashi, remarked towards the close of the event on the growth of TEDx from video stories to live events and said, As we look at the wideness of the platform, what keeps us moving every day is to look at the depth of it, is to look at not only how far we go but how beneath can we go and fetch these ideas.

Announcing his ideas for the future of Gateway, he said, We are going to find real ideas, real heroes, insights from inspiring people that really need to go on stage.ON 30 NOVEMBER, the capital saw one of its largest congregations of farmers with over 35,000 of them  from across the country  marching from Ramlila Maidan to Parliament street, protesting a wide range of issues that have plagued the agricultural community for decades. Banded under the All India Kisan Sangharsh Co-ordination Committee (AIKSCC) which comprises over 200 farmers bodies, the Kisan Mukti March was organised in an attempt to question the non-implementation of the 2006 Swaminathan Report and specific state-level problems. AIKSCC was born out of the 144-day protest by Tamil Nadu farmers in Delhi in 2017, after which, farmers' bodies from around the country reached out to each other to formulate an umbrella organisation to execute national level agitations like the recent one. The major demand of the AIKSCC is the consideration of two bills in the winter session of Parliament commencing on 11 December  one concerning loan waivers and the other, a steady constitutional plan to prevent farmers from falling into debt in future. Most farmers refrained from commenting on what they thought the future might hold, barring a few who felt hopeful after the large turnout. However, a general critique that echoed among all protestors was how the protest being used by leaders from opposition parties to secure goodwill among the kisan community in preparation for the 2019 elections; they saw this as nothing more than an opportunist political detraction from the main issues. Also read: Portraits from the Kisan Mukti March's vigil at Ramlila Maidan In conversation with some in transit and some who waited back at Ramlila Maidan before their return journey, Firstpost explored the mixed sentiments post the march  the silence, the individual hopes, and the lack thereof.

(Above) Sella Perumar, posing with the skulls of friends who had allegedly committed suicide, on the rickshaw ride back to Ramlila Maidan from Parliament street. A member of the National South Indian River Inter-Linking Farmers Association (NSIRIFA), and among the farmers who agitated for 144 days in Delhi last year, Perumar has high hopes the government will meet (the farmers') demands after the successful protest. Preparing to be back in Delhi with a small group from his village when the Parliament session begins on 11 December, he demonstrated a self-awareness over why the farmers' demands were being met: Its not because the Prime Minister will get an emotional jolt from the protest. If our demands are considered in the winter session of Parliament, it will be because they cannot ruin their national political standing before the 2019 general elections.

A group of farmers from Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu exit Ramlila Maidan to catch their return train. Soon after the protest ended, most farmers packed and left Ramlila Maidan to catch late night trains back to their respective home states from Anand Vihar, Nizamuddin, or the New Delhi railway station.

Some waited back at Ramlila Maidan before their return journey, deciding to rest and recover from the two long and strenuous days of walks. Here, a farmer from Madhya Pradesh uses a makeshift quilt of tarpaulin tied to a pole, to battle the Delhi winter.

As he applied oil on his feet to ease the pain from cramps after the long walk, Mukru Vaktu Madankar from Thanegaon Village, Gadchiroli district, Maharashtra, said, We have dedicated so much collective time, energy and expenditure for this agitation, that now it will break us if the demands are still not considered. Hailing from a region prone to drought, and lack of produce due to irregular rain, he walked in protest against delayed implementation of promised loan waivers while also demanding greater technological investment from the government to ensure consistent crop production even through the dry spells.

Some preferred to stay up and engage in jokes, singing and introspection. Rojismita Nair, Kalpana Raut, Ambika Sahu, Basanti Padhan, all women hailing from Bargad district, Orissa, joined their older companion Jagbandu Padhan, as he sang to them songs written by a zila local (Chandrashekhar Sahu) about the time when Vinoba Bhave visited their region and declared some forest land for them to farm on.

A placard proclaims that farmers have united to fight for their rights [Farmer will not commit suicide anymore. They will fight]. Maintaining that their agenda still remains the same, Sunil Mattur, from Hameri District, Karnataka said, It is too soon to comment on what the policy-based outcome of todays march will turn out to be. All we know is that the government has to meet our demands, which are the same as they were yesterday and have been.

Prasad Bhanvasi (left) and his brother Prem (right) from Jhathi Village, Banaras, dust off mud from a carpet sheet before carrying it for their zila companions to use to sleep on. Teary-eyed and agitated, Prasad offered a reality check to "anyone who is willing to listen", but specifically politicians and urban dwellers, stating, "The on-ground situation in villages, the weather and economy is very bad. People need to get out of their comfortable homes and come and see the condition of us farmers who grow the food they eat." Just as his brother insisted they go back and get some rest, he concluded on a personal note, "Every protest I have seen and been part of turns out to be a political battle between ruling parties and about who can give fake promises more convincingly. Age is getting ahead of me. What will be the point of delayed improvement of our condition, if we are not in a state to work by then?"

Leading his district companions towards their return train, over the bridge at New Delhi station, Ayyaakkannu Tatar (extreme right), president of National South Indian River Interlinking Farmers Association, offered an unsettling, but according to him necessary, course of action for the future,"Today we have marched naked with skulls of our friends, but next time we will hang ourselves in front of Parliament. So many of us are dying in our own villages, and the central government insensitively brushes it off as deaths related to family or girl problems. But if we do it here in front of them, they won't have anything to say." He concluded with a promise of similar national-level protests in the near future, "Once again we will agitate and it will be bigger.  All photos by Sahil JagasiaWhile the State Election Commission declared the final polling percentage the Chhattisgarh Assembly elections as 76.35 percent, the Directorate of Public Relations pegged the figure at 76.60 percent.

Raipur: As though the allegations of EVM tampering during the recent Chhattisgarh Assembly polls weren't enough, the State Election Commission is now under attack for inconsistent voter turnout data since the final phase of polling on 20 November.

At loggerheads over the figures are the State Election Commission and the Chhattisgarh government's Directorate of Public Relations (DPR), from where the nodal officer to disseminate information about the elections is appointed.

While the State Election Commission has declared the final cumulative polling percentage for both phases of the Assembly elections as 76.35 percent, the DPR's website pegged the figure at 76.60 percent seven days after voting ended.

What's worse is that in some constituencies such as Bharatpur-Sonhat, which went to polls in the final phase, there were wide differences between the polling percentages released by the two bodies  on the day of voting, the voter turnout was declared to be 65.32 percent, but the Election Commission later pegged it at 72.88 percent and the DPR at 84 percent.

However, it is the small difference of 0.25 percent (between 76.35 and 76.60) in the final voting percentage that has alarmed the Opposition Congress, considering that in the 2013 elections, the party had lost to the BJP with a 0.75 percent margin in voting percentage.

Changing numbers between State Election Commission and DPR

For Chhattisgarh's 90 Assembly seats, polling was held in two phases. The electorate cast its ballots for 18 seats affected by Left-Wing Extremism first on 12 November. Hours after polling ended, the Election Commission declared the voting percentage as 60.49 percent, but revised the figures the next day to 76.28 percent.

The remaining 72 seats went to polls on 20 November, and the polling percentage was released the same day after voting ended. According to the data released by the Election Commission the same day, the voter turnout was 66.63 percent till 6 pm. Chhattisgarh Chief Electoral Officer Subrata Sahu said polling had continued even after 6 pm, and that they would arrive at the exact data late at night or early the next day.

The next evening, the Election Commission announced that the polling percentage had risen to 76.35 percent for 72 seats.

The State Election Commission mentioned in the information letter issued at the press conference that the polling parties from all 72 constituencies had all returned safely and had deposited their polling material at the collection centres. It also announced that the machines used in the elections had been sealed in the presence of all political parties and contestants.

However, on 27 November, seven days after polling, DPR released its data on voting percentage across all 90 seats. Here, the final overall voter turnout was pegged at 76.60 percent.

Constituency-wise data released by the Election Commission on 21 November and DPR on 27 November had wide differences, as well. While the DPR figures showed a majority of the seats with higher polling percentages, some like Premnagar showed a near 2 percent lower turnout.

Constituency Polling percentage on 21 Nov Polling percentage on 27 Nov Bharatpur Sonhat 72.88 84 Bhatgaon 76.99 78.21 Pratappur 82.52 83.38 Lormi 71.66 72.08 Mungeli 67.4 69.54 Bhatapara 75.69 76.34 Saja 81.74 82.39 Bhanupratappur 76.77 77.25 Kondagaon 82.84 83.48 Bijapur 47.35 48.49 Premnagar 82.66 80.42

If we look at the results of previous elections in Chhattisgarh, it is apparent that a small difference in voting percentage swayed the results for many candidates.

For example, Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, Congress leader TS Singh Deo, won the 2008 election by a mere 900 votes. Raju Chhattri of the BJP won by 608 votes from Takhatpur in 2013, while Mohala-Manpur's Tejkunwar of the Congress won by 956 votes. In Dongargaon, Congress leader Daleshwar Sahu won by 1,698 votes, and Raipur Rural bagged the Satyanarayan Sharma by 1,861 votes.

In 2013, as many as 11 candidates won or lost the election by a meager margin of 2,000 to 3,000 votes.

Congress spokesperson for Chhattisgarh Shailesh Nitin Trivedi pointed out that the party had lost the 2013 elections by a mere 0.75 percent difference in voting percentage with the BJP.

However, the Chief Electoral Officer of Chhattisgarh has defended the differing voter turnout data, saying that the figures released earlier were part of provisional data. "This is the final data (referring to figures released on 21 November). Polling was held in remote areas in some places, and elsewhere, officials had to arrive via helicopters. This took time, so it's wrong to say that the percentage was increased. We arrived at the data after matching all polling data."

But Chhattisgarh convener of the Association for Democratic Reforms Gautam Bandopadhyay sounded a warning, pointing to data released by the state DPR on 27 November. "These are not the old days. If polling data comes after seven days of voting, it's worrisome. The Election Commission should review its work," he said.

The trouble with mock poll data

The matter is not just of the polling percentage in Chhattisgarh. It has been found that mock poll data from EVMs were not deleted, as is the norm, and was added to the final poll data.

A mock poll is conducted an hour prior to polling, where a minimum of 50 votes are cast in an EVM at one booth in the presence of polling agents. It is mandatory that actual polling be started only after the results of the mock poll are entered into Form 17C and deleted from the voting machines.

In Chhattisgarh, plenty of mock poll glitches came up. Also, mock poll votes were found to not have been deleted and subsequently added to the final tally.

The State Election Commission has even accepted the blunder and is now awaiting further directions from the Election Commission of India. Amid claims of EVM manipulation by the Opposition, the Election Commission of India has issued orders to not release booth-wise data of polling.

On mock poll votes not being deleted, Chhattisgarh BJP president Dharamlal Kaushik said: "The Election Commission will decide over the matter. If there is doubt, it needs investigation."

Subrata Dey, state spokesperson of Ajit Jogi's Janata Congress Chhattisgarh, said the Election Commission "should take up the issue seriously, and an investigation should be done impartially". "Action should be taken so that voters' trust on the election process remains intact," he added.

Complaints of inconsistency in the election code of conduct being following as well as poll rigging have also been reported from Madhya Pradesh after the state when to the polls on 28 November.

The author is a freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters.comThe Telangana Vidhan Sabha elections are quickly turning into a psephological nightmare for both the voter and the pollster alike

The Telangana Vidhan Sabha elections are quickly turning into a psephological nightmare as a host of contradictory factors are confusing both the voter and the pollster alike. The battle-lines are clearly drawn between the TRS contesting on its own and the Congress cobbling up a four-party alliance to take on the ruling party. The coming-to-fruition of such an alliance despite initial bickering has certainly spruced up the political climate. The resultant realisation widely acknowledged across political and public life is that TRS will not have a cake walk as KCR repeatedly asks everyone to believe.

The chief minister and TRS supremo who initially claimed that his party would win 100 out of 119 seats has now increased his predicted tally to 108, leaving only four seats to all other parties after giving seven seats to his ally, MIM. This is certainly a figment of the imagination dished out primarily as part of mind games to bewilder the Opposition. If the final figure is anywhere near the claim, it will be certainly a miracle.

KCR quotes reportedly-conducted surveys to buttress his point. Meanwhile the state Congress chief Uttam Kumar Reddy said that the alliance led by his party will win at least 85 seats. The BJP, the CPM-led Bahujan Left Front (BLF) and others are contesting separately and outside the TRS or Congress-led People's Front. In case of a keen contest between the TRS and the People's Front, even a small number of votes polled by these other parties can prove to be decisive in defining the mandate:

First, Dalit voters are largely disenchanted with KCR and there are enough reasons for this. The TRS government has been lukewarm to the vexed question of categorisation of SCs into subgroups. The Madigas who are the larger constituent of Scheduled Castes in Telangana have been demanding such a categorisation. The KCR government has shown high-handedness towards the leader of the Madiga Reservation Porata Samithi (MRPS) (which spearheads the movement for sub-classification of SCs), Manda Krishna Madiga. This influential leader is now supporting the Congress-led alliance.

During the Telangana movement, KCR promised to make a Dalit chief Minister if he came to power in a separate state. He has not only belied this promise by assuming office himself, but has not included anyone from the Madiga or Mala sub-castes into his cabinet, ever though a member of a Scheduled Caste was made deputy chief minister. Madigas and Malas constitute most of the Dalit electorate with the former holding a larger share in Telangana. The promise of three acres of land for Dalit families remained more or less a non-starter. Barring setting up a significant number of residential schools, the KCR government has not implemented any welfare schemes particularly targeting SCs.

There is a shift in the OBC vote in favour of TRS due to the government's welfare schemes and the weakening of the TDP. The KCR government's popular scheme of providing sheep and cattle for shepherd families has created a strong positive sentiment for TRS among Yadavas, the largest OBC community in the state. Similarly, the TRS government implemented specific welfare schemes for fishermen, handloom weavers, toddy tappers etc. However, the Most Backward Classes (MBCs) got a raw deal. Even the popular Rythu Bandhu scheme (providing cash support of Rs 8,000 per acre per year which, as has been promised, will be upped to Rs 10,000) is not benefiting Dalits as they are mostly landless. However, the OBCs who are largely small and marginal famers could benefit to an extent.

The TDP has a history of politically empowering OBCs. Post-bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, the party has suffered a huge erosion in its support base, which may not return fully to the TDP fold despite the party's alliance with the Congress. Thus, KCR was successful in attracting the OBC voter away from TDP, given the post-bifurcation political narrative. The Muslim vote is divided despite TRS-MIM open embrace. The MIM influence is largely limited to Hyderabad and its adjoining areas barring few pockets like the Karimnagar, Adilabad districts outside the state capital.

Besides the MIM factor, the TRS could also lure Muslim votes with its welfare schemes like Shadi Mubarak (over Rs one lakh in cash assistance for the marriage of poor Muslims girls), minority residential schools, liberal grants for mosques, Imams, Mauzams and poor Muslims during Ramadan etc. However, the Congress alliance campaign that a vote for TRS is a vote for the BJP will also have some impact. KCR cleverly nullified such adverse impact to an extent by delinking Assembly and Parliament elections anticipating polarisation for and against Narendra Modi.

Second, it was widely speculated that the BJP will cut into the anti-government vote, thus damaging the Congress. But, the latest reports also indicate that the BJP is eating into even the TRS vote as there is an increasing belief of undeclared bonhomie between the pink and saffron parties. This is due to increasing electoral polarisation between the TRS and Congress combine.

Third, Chandrababu Naidu's intense campaigning is under fire from the TRS. This is resulting in the rise of the Telangana sentiment in the core areas of Telangana. Thus, the favourable electoral arithmetic for the Congress-led People's Front is pitted against the possible perils of adverse political chemistry for the grand alliance. The Congress tried to minimise this possible damage by largely limiting Naidu's campaign to Hyderabad and Khammam districts where the demography of voters is more conducive to the Andhra Pradesh chief minister. However, in the age of hyper media activity and social media blitzes, KCR 's powerful speeches countering Naidu or his hectic campaigning has reach wider than any geographical limitations.

Fourth, while KCR still enjoys a positive image, TRS candidates look relatively weaker when compared with candidates of the Opposition combine in several constituencies. Thus, many ministers are forced to largely confine themselves to their constituencies. To avoid unwanted dissidence, KCR took a calculated risk by renominating most of his sitting MLAs. Whether this will pay off or cost him is anybody's guess. Will the voter consider the MLA candidate or the chief minister?

Fifth, the KCR regime has neither a strong pro- nor anti-incumbency as there is no universal discontent on the incumbent government. The government had a mixed record. KCR had only one term and voters may prefer to give him the benefit of doubt as the other players are not new to power. Meanwhile, KCR is also playing the victim card appealing to the voters that Congress has ganged up with TDP and two others to defeat him.Asaduddin Owaisi too hit back at Yogi Adityanath saying the chief minister is less concerned about Uttar Pradesh and spreading hatred in Telangana instead ahead of Assembly elections.

Hyderabad: All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) leader Akbaruddin Owaisi takes a jibe at Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath for remarks against his elder brother and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, saying "not only him but his future generations will continue to live in Hyderabad".

Adityanath on Sunday said that if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) comes to power in Telangana, Asaduddin Owaisi will have to flee from the state like the Nizams.

Addressing an election rally at Tandur in Vikarabad district of Telangana, he said: "If BJP comes to power in Telangana, I assure you Owaisi will have to flee from Telangana just the way Nizam was forced to flee from Hyderabad. BJP will give security to all, but will not allow anyone to create anarchy."

Following Adityanath's scathing remarks, Akbaruddin gave it back by saying: "A lot of people have come and gone. Forget about Owaisi, even thousands of his future generations will continue to live in this country. They will fight you and will oust you from the country. We are not the ones who will run away."

Asaduddin too hit back at Adityanath saying the chief minister is less concerned about Uttar Pradesh and spreading hatred in Telangana instead ahead of Assembly elections.

Speaking at a rally in Malakpet, Asaduddin said, "Bharatiya Janata Party's model is 'Hindu-Muslim'. Its model is, Amit Shah will only speak about Asaduddin Owaisi and AIMIM at various events. Basically he does not have anything else to say. Amit Shah, please tell what have you done in India in the last four-and-half years? Is there something that you wanted to do, but could not?"

He added, "Their Uttar Pradesh chief minister has come to Hyderabad. He is saying that if BJP will form the government in Telangana then they will throw Asaduddin Owaisi out like Nizam. I want to ask him since when did he start talking all this? Does this nation only belong to you and not me? Will they throw us out of this country if we speak against BJP, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his politics and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh?"

In the war of words, Asaduddin too went to the extent of saying: "You are zero in history and if you cannot read then ask somebody who can. If you were educated, then you would have known that Nizam did not leave Hyderabad. When India fought against China, he was the one who sold his gold."

Stressing on Modi's humble beginning as a tea seller, Akbaruddin underlined that since he has become the prime minister now he must 'conduct himself in the way befitting of a Prime Minister'.

Telangana Assembly elections are on 7 December while the counting of votes will take place on 11 December.A police inspector and a youth were killed in Bulandshahr on Monday as a mob protesting over illegal cow slaughter went on a rampage.

New Delhi: The Congress on Monday hit out at Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath over violence in Bulandshahr, saying it was the worst kind of failure of law and order and he should set his own house in order before "gallivanting" around the country for campaigning in elections.

A police inspector and a youth were killed on Monday as a mob protesting over illegal cow slaughter went on a rampage torching a police post and clashing with police, which opened fire.

As tension prevailed in the area following the violence that lasted nearly three hours, the Uttar Pradesh government deployed additional police, including over 1,000 personnel of anti-riot forces, and ordered multiple probes  by SIT, ADG-Intelligence and a magisterial inquiry.

Congress' spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi, at a press conference, said the failure of this nature in a state like Uttar Pradesh was the "worst kind of failure of law and order and governance".

Singhvi slammed Adityanath for "telling other people" to follow his example, saying the chief minister is campaigning across the country and such violence is happening in his own backyard.

"Here is the poster boy of the BJP in terms of good governance... He should first set his own house in order before gallivanting across the country campaigning and preaching to others. This is an utter failure of the law and order situation," he said.

Singhvi also conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and expressed regret over the damage to property.

Meanwhile, Congress's chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said that after "handing over" Uttar Pradesh to "anti-social" elements, Adityanath is busy campaigning for his party.

"Absence of law and order and violence unleashed by mobocracy is the real identity of BJP governments," he tweeted in Hindi.When Rahul Gandhi is forced to flaunt his sacred thread and Brahminical parentage in a show of competitive Hindutva, the BJP is the winner. Fortunately for BJP, in its mission to replace the idea of Congress that came to define the idea of India during the past few decades of this independent nation, it has been ably supported by the new Congress president, who is working hard day and night to realise Modi and Amit Shahs dream of making India Congress-mukt.

Clairvoyants and soothsayers may risk a prediction but whether or not Narendra Modi retains his mandate shall only be known on the day the results of tje 2019 Lok Sabha elections are announced. What is certain, however, is that BJP will win. In fact, it has already won. In as much as it represents a countervailing ideological and political force, the BJP has deracinated the Congress and the rootless, opportunistic, discredited ideas that it stood for.

Not just panchayat to Parliament where it has already extended an enviable pan-national footprint, BJPs real win lies in successfully setting the ground rules for parties to fight elections. It has ensured that no matter which way the mandate swings  whether Congress snatches a state away from BJP, or regional parties come together to form an ephemeral third front  political discourse will steadily shift away from pseudo-secularism to Hindutva as the new campaign metric. And parties will be judged (or so they might assume) by how close or distant they are to this theme.

This, as Yogi Adityanath has pointed out, is a total and complete ideological victory. When Rahul Gandhi is forced to flaunt his sacred thread and Brahminical parentage in a show of competitive Hindutva, the BJP is the winner. Fortunately for BJP, in its mission to replace the idea of Congress that came to define the idea of India during the past few decades of this independent nation, it has been ably supported by the new Congress president, who is working hard day and night to realise Modi and Amit Shahs dream of making India 'Congress-mukt'.

This isnt a snarky take on Rahul's political abilities. By all accounts the Gandhi scion seems to have shaken off his elitist ennui and brought a new urgency to the grand old partys laissez faire politics. However, it has completely escaped the Congress president that by trying to outdo the BJP at its own game and presenting Congress as BJP 2.0, he has hastened Congresss identity crisis.

A political party is not merely an organised group of leaders, cadres and supporters that seeks to acquire and exercise power. It must have an ideological mooring to shape its policies and vision. A dislocation of that mooring has a ripple effect on the party that may reduce it to a cultish organisation centred around a clan or a dynasty. This system may keep the party temporarily afloat but eventually will be unable to prop up the party in a marketplace of ideas. By seeking to annul its belief in "secularism" (however cynical or subversive Congresss idea may have been from the tenets of true secularism), Rahul has dislocated this ideological anchor. Congress has nothing to distinguish itself from its more powerful ideological opponent.

As this oped in The Indian Express notes, "Whether the Congress approach to convince Hindus that it is not anti-Hindu is soft Hindutva or not, the Congress president cannot afford to ignore the effects it will have on this central challenge. His father, through Ayodhya and Shah Bano, sought to be too clever by half and contributed to competitive communalism. Now, Rahul may be giving shape to a new Congress that is blind to that central challenge. The electoral rise of this new Congress may mark the final departure of the idea of the Congress  a move toward Congress-mukt Bharat indeed."

What has compounded Congresss existential crisis is the fact that it has not been able to manage even this transition with total conviction. It finds adoption of an aggressive brand of Hindutva politically expedient and has lurched forward with gusto but not before seeking to keep a toe rooted in its earlier spot. The result is a tortured posture of self-inflicted pain. The party is torn between this new identity and old habit, and the conflict is coming out in the open.

While its leader CP Joshi says only a Congress PM can build Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and "only Brahmins know enough to talk about Hinduism", Kamal Nath, its Madhya Pradesh handler, tells Muslim leaders during a closed-door meeting that Congress will be finished if it doesnt get 90 percent of the Muslim votes and that Muslims have to "bear everything" till the day of voting.

Rahul "admonishes" Joshi for his remarks and seeks to take the high moral ground, but subsequently let slips his gotra. In Madhya Pradesh, Congress brings cow shelter, cow urine, treatment of injured cows and last rites for dead cows in manifesto while its draft manifesto in Telangana, another poll-bound state, calls for free electricity to mosques and churches, special opportunities in government contracts for the Muslim youth, Rs 20 lakh aid to poor Muslim students, residential schools for Muslims, hospitals for minorities, special Urdu DSC (District Selection Committee) for minorities, according to a report in Times Now.

To make these two hypocritical ends meet, the Congress has indulged in a bit of jugglery. The task is being spearheaded by its Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor who is trying hard to convince perfumed secularists who are disappointed in Congresss sudden right turn, that Congresss brand of Hindutva is different from BJPs.

"We decided that it was time for us to avow our faith," said the Congress MP at a LitFest in New Delhi on Sunday, but to do so within a framework of inclusiveness and acceptance of other faiths, he claimed.

Tharoor is erudite. He also has a wicked sense of humour. An example of the inclusiveness he spoke of on Sunday, was provided by his party president the day before. During a public meeting in Rajasthans Udaipur, Rahul questioned Modis faith, saying Our prime minister says he is a Hindu but he doesn't understand the foundation of Hinduism. What kind of a Hindu is he?

Tharoor, who has written a book on Congresss vision of Hinduism, claimed in an essay that the BJP is waging a war on science with what he calls propagation of pseudoscience. He didnt care to explain how Congresss propagation of scientific temper squares with its manifesto in MP where the party has vowed to initiate commercial production of cow urine if voted to power.

These inconsistencies are inevitable when a party seeks to mask its existential crisis in intellectual dishonesty. Tharoors erudition might not be enough to save a party that has lost its mojo. The Congress may yet script a political victory in a state or two or back an amorphous conglomerate to keep the BJP out of power, but it has lost the larger ideological battle convincingly and decisively. That bit is clear.After the final list of candidates was declared for the Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Sabha election 2018, Patidars swore allegiance to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Much before the Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh were announced, the Patidar community had pledged its support to the Congress after its leaders met Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath in August, as reported by Pune Mirror. However, after the final list of candidates was declared, Patidars swore allegiance to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The community  which demanded a minimum of 15 seats from the Congress  felt cheated by the Opposition party as it fielded only one Patidar candidate from among the 230 seats across the state from which it fielded its nominees.

Madhya Pradesh has the second largest population of Patidars after Gujarat, with nearly 60 lakh voters belonging to the community, out of which 40 lakh are from the Malwa region itself. Also, out of the 230 seats in contention, the fate of around 34 would be predominantly decided by a majority of Patidar voters present in these constituencies, the Pune Mirror report stated.

Still, Congress has given ticket only to Satyanarayan Patidar from Neemuch, as opposed to BJP which has fielded seven candidates belonging to the community. Presently too, there are 11 BJP MLAs from the Patidar community in Madhya Pradesh as against just two from the Congress. The states only Patidar MP is also from BJP.

However, despite this the community was pinning hope on Congress to favour its leaders during ticket distribution but, was disappointed to be let down at the last moment. And thus after initial hesitation and resistance from a few members, the community finally decided to full-fledged support the BJP in the 28 November elections.

Speaking to Firstpost, Rajesh Patidar, who is also the Mandsaur district head of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), said that the community as a whole decided to support the BJP and cut all ties with the Congress for having cheated on its promise. Patidar community ke saath bohaut bada dhoka kiya hai Congress ne...samaaj mein bada aakrosh hai (The Congress has deceived the Patidar community and the members of the community are agitated over this), he said. Accusing the Congress of ignoring farmers, OBCs and other backward classes, Patidar accused the grand old party of not keeping the community leaders in the loop about the last minute changes in the candidate list. Congress keval lena jaanti hai, dena nahin (The Congress only knows how to take away from someone but does not give in return), Rajesh alleged.

Another Patidar leader from Mandsaur, Trilok Patidar too echoed his sentiments. He lamented the fact that Congress was letting go of the support of lakhs of voters by sidelining the Patidar community and will thus be faced with an adverse poll outcome for backtracking on their pre-poll promise done to the community and its leaders.

The decision to fully support the BJP was taken by the community after its members met with the Election Commission and expressed the wish to change their loyalties, Rajesh told. He also said that the community leaders had discussions with the BJP members and that their final decision to support the ruling party was conveyed to it. Whereas, there were no further talks with the Congress on the issue.

Meanwhile, the state Congress denied having knowledge of any such rift with the Patidar community. Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) spokesperson JP Dhanopia told Firstpost, that Congress has not given any ticket based on the caste of the candidates and has rather preferred the candidates winnability while deciding on their candidature. Jaativaad pe koi ticket nahin diya gaya hai, Dhanopia said.

Therefore, in such a situation where the Patidar community turned its back on the Congress, it is advantage BJP, as going into the polls, the incumbent Shivraj Singh Chouhan government now enjoys the support of the politically dominant community. The run-up to the Madhya Pradesh elections saw many politicians turn political turncoats switch sides overnight. However, the support of the Patidar community is crucial for BJP given that the community was earlier upset with the party over the police firing in Mandsaur which killed six farmers, including four Patidars.

But whether or not this support translates into a win for the BJP remains to be seen, and the picture will be clear only when the election results are announced on 11 December.Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik was replying to Omar Abdullah's letter sent to him earlier, expressing 'serious concern' over reports that the state government under Governor's rule was planning to make changes in PRC

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Monday assured former chief minister Omar Abdullah that no changes were being made to the existing Permanent Resident Certificate (PRC) rules in the state and asked him not to pay heed to unfounded reports.

"There have been complaints that the issuance of these certificates gets delayed due to a variety of procedural reasons.

"It is in this context of having a hassle-free process for bona fide applicants that I believe the revenue department has sought comments from a few others.

"This is a routine administrative matter and unnecessary meanings should not be read into it.

"As a senior political leader, I would request you not to pay any heed to such frivolous and unfounded reports," Malik wrote in a letter to the National Conference leader.

The Governor was replying to Abdullah's letter sent to him earlier, expressing "serious concern" over reports that the state government under Governor's rule was planning to make changes in the PRCs.

PRCs are issued to permanent residents of the state as defined by the state legislature under Article 35-A of the Constitution, which has been challenged in the Supreme Court.

"Fax received from Malik Sahib...I'm pleased to note no changes are being proposed to the PRC certificate rules," Abdullah tweeted later.

He also posted a copy of the letter from Malik dispelling concerns over the earlier reports.Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Smriti Irani on Sunday hit out at the Congress saying the party which had once questioned the existence of Lord Ram was now talking about Hinduism.

Udaipur: Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Smriti Irani on Sunday hit out at the Congress saying the party which had once questioned the existence of Lord Ram was now talking about Hinduism.

Referring to the Congress president Rahul Gandhi remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he did not understand the foundation of Hinduism, Irani said that it was strange that the party which had raised a question on Lord Ram's existence was talking about Hindu and Hinduism. Where was the Hindu in Rahul Gandhi when Congress had submitted an affidavit that Lord Ram does not exist?.., she asked?

It may be recalled that in a damage control exercise, the then UPA government in September 2007 withdrew from the Supreme Court its two affidavits, including the controversial one filed by the ASI claiming there was no historical or scientific evidence to establish the existence of Lord Ram and Rama Setu as a man-made bridge. The action had come in the wake of controversy sparked by the ASI affidavit that forced the government to backtrack.

Meanwhile, Home Minister Rajnath Singh in reply to a question in Jaipur earlier in the day said Congress was talking about Hinduism which it has avoided discussing till now. "Hinduism should not be connected with any sect, caste and religion. It is a way of living life and it is a human religion. What will they talk about Hindu and Hinduism? They have called Lord Ram a fictional character in the affidavit submitted in Supreme Court in Ram Setu case in 2007, he said.

Irani, to a question on Punjab minister Navjot Sidhu visit to Pakistan and his remarks on Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, said that Congress president needed to answer on it. Why does a Congress minister insult chief minister of his state? Rahul Gandhi should answer it. Why does a Congress leader love Pakistan more than India, Congress should think about it," she said. She also questioned the "silence" of Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Navjot Sidhu's Pakistan visit. Pakistan foreign minister said Pakistan could throw a 'googly' at India due to the action of this Congress leader (Sidhu). But, Rahul Gandhi is quiet on the issue..," she said.The driving force behind the gathering of opposition parties is Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who has been making efforts to put together an anti-BJP front after walking out of the Modi government

New Delhi: Preparing the pitch for a 'Mahagatbandhan' (grand alliance) ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, opposition parties will meet in Delhi on 10 December, a day before the Parliament opens its winter session and the results of Assembly elections in five states are known.

The driving force behind the gathering is Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu, who has been making efforts to put together an anti-BJP front after walking out of the Modi government.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, former Union minister Sharad Yadav, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah, Samajwadi Party leader Ram Gopal Yadav and leaders of other opposition parties are likely to attend the meeting to be held at Constitution Club in the heart of Delhi.

The meeting will focus on the form and structure of the proposed opposition alliance and a course of action to take forward the initiative.

A plan of action is likely to be drafted to fight the Modi government over its alleged anti-people policies such as misuse of institutions like RBI, CBI, CVC and the Income Tax department to settle scores with political rivals, an opposition leader said.

He said the meeting would also discuss on the sidelines of how to corner the government in Parliament on issues related to farmers, demonetisation and the controversial Rafale deal.

TDP chief Naidu has met Rahul Gandhi, Nationalist Congress Party's Sharad Pawar, DMK's M K Stalin, Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee, Farooq Abdullah, former prime minister and Janata Dal-Secular chief H D Deve Gowda and Bahujan Samaj Party leader Mayawati.

The meeting comes a day ahead of the vote count of Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Rajasthan and Mizoram.

The elections are being dubbed the semifinal of next year's general elections.

Last week, opposition leaders gathered in Delhi at a farmers rally. The Congress president and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal shared the stage together and accused the Modi government of plunging the country into an acute agrarian crisis.Telugu Desam Party president and Andhra Pradesh chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has been the driving force to put together the anti-BJP front. Even though Bahujan Samaj Party's Mayawati was among the first leaders he met for talks, there is uncertainty about her party's participation.

In a bid to forge a grand alliance ahead of the Lok Sabha election in 2019, several Opposition parties are slated to meet in New Delhi on 10 December. The meeting will be held a day before the results of the polls in five states  Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Rajasthan and Mizoram  and the Parliament opens for the Winter Session.

Among those likely to attend the meeting are Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Trinamool Congress chief and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, former Union minister and Loktantrik Janata Dal leader Sharad Yadav, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah and Samajwadi Party leader Ram Gopal Yadav.

Telugu Desam Party president and Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu has been the driving force to put together the anti-BJP front. Even though Bahujan Samaj Party's Mayawati was among the first leaders he met for talks, there is uncertainty about her party's participation.

The Hindu quoted a senior Congress leader as saying that the BSP hasn't conveyed to the parties on who will be representing the party during the meet. However, a senior Opposition leader was quoted as saying in the report, The BSP does not want to be seen on an Opposition platform till the seat sharing arrangement in Uttar Pradesh is finalised and it gets its fair share. But it does give us reason to doubt its commitment to an alliance in the state."

The Congress problem

The Congress failed to bring the BSP on board in Madhya Pradesh and could not dissuade the BSP supremo, Mayawati, from aligning with the breakaway Congress leader, Ajit Jogi, in Chhattisgarh. By not allying with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan, Mayawati raised doubts about her commitment to the idea of Opposition unity.

Following her exit from the alliance with Congress, Mayawati had expressed her displeasure to Naidu over the party's attitude.

She is also said to have concerns about the bonhomie between the Congress and the Bhim Army leader Chandrashekhar Azad. It is possible that the Congress-BSP negotiations failed in the three states because of Mayawati's fear of the Congress poaching on her territory by wooing the Dalits and rebuilding its old Brahmin-Muslim-Harijan base.

During an interview to NDTV in November, Mayawati had said that she will prefer sitting in the Opposition instead of supporting the Congress or BJP in Chhattisgarh, as she asserted that her alliance with JCC will get a majority.

"I have full confidence that we will get absolute majority and so there are no chances to think about any sort of support to or from anyone... Even if we do not get majority, we will prefer sitting in the Opposition to forming an alliance with the Congress or the BJP as both the parties are anti-poor, anti-farmer, anti-Dalit and anti-weaker sections," she had said.

While campaigning in Telangana, where the BSP is contesting 108 seats, Mayawati had reportedly campaigned without meeting any Opposition leaders despite staying in the hotel where the TDP chief held a press conference. However, a TDP leader told The Times of India that Mayawati didn't make an effort to hold talks because her party was contesting on its own.

Interestingly, all of this comes just months after Mayawati and Congress leader Sonia Gandhi were seen sharing the dias and hugging during Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy's oath-taking ceremony.

The 10 December meet is likely to focus on the form and structure of the proposed mahagathbandhan and a course of action to take forward the initiative. A plan of action is likely to be drafted to fight the Modi government over its alleged "anti-people" policies like "misuse" of institutions like Reserve Bank of India, Central Bureau of Investigation, Central Vigilance Commission, and the Income Tax department to settle scores with political rivals.

With inputs from agenciesHome Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said Pakistan can seek India's help if it cannot handle the fight against terrorism alone.

Jaipur: Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said Pakistan can seek India's help if it cannot handle the fight against terrorism alone. He asserted there have not been any major terrorist-related incident in the country in over four years of the Narendra Modi-led NDA government.

"I want to ask the Pakistani prime minister (Imran Khan) that if in Afghanistan, a fight can be carried out against terror and Taliban with the help of the US, then, Pakistan can seek help against terrorism from India if it feels that it cannot handle it alone," he said.

Addressing a press conference, Singh said Jammu and Kashmir was not an issue as it was an integral part of the country. "The issue is of terrorism, and Pakistan can discuss it," Singh said.

The home minister also accused the Congress of creating a crisis of distrust in politics and claimed there was a difference in their words and deeds. "I do not want to claim that terrorism has stopped, but no major terrorist incident has happened in the country in last four-and-a-half years, he said.

Terrorism is confined only to Kashmir where also situation is improving, Singh said adding Panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir is being conducted successfully. "The government has brought Jammu and Kashmir into political process. As far as terrorism is concerned, there is no second thought that it is Pakistan sponsored," the home minister said.

The Union minister asserted that the country and its borders are safe. Terrorism has reduced and the problem of Naxalism will get eliminated from the country in the coming years, he added.

Naxal-related incidents have come down by 50-60 percent in the last four years, he said, adding it has reduced from 90 districts to only 8-9 districts and that the problem will get eliminated in next three to five years.

Hitting back at Congress president Rahul Gandhi on his statement that surgical strikes were conducted during previous UPA regime also, the home minister sought to know why it was kept a secret.

"They are telling it today. Why the country was not informed earlier? If our army had shown its valour and strength then should this country not have any knowledge of this matter? Singh asked. Why was the attempt made to keep the valour and strength of army hidden? Whose fear was it? I want to have an answer to this question, he said.

Responding to an alleged statement of AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi that 'Allah will defeat the Modi (and Rahul Gandhi) ', Singh said, We cannot fight with god of any religion. We do not want to fight like this as we do not believe in politics based on caste or religion. Our politics is based on justice and humanity.

On the issue of Hinduism, he said Congress is talking about the issue which it has avoided discussing till now. "Hinduism should not be connected with any sect, caste and religion. It is a way of living life and it is a human religion, he said.Taking a dig at Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Congress Kerala chief Mullappally Ramachandran had earlier alleged that Narendra Modi had directed his 'new found companion' to appoint Loknath Behara as DGP

Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday said that he was not a person to dance to the "whims and fancies" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and hit out at the Congress state president who had alleged that IPS officer Loknath Behara was made Kerala police chief by the Left government at Modi's behest.

Mullappally Ramachandran, Congress' Kerala chief, had on Saturday alleged that Behara was appointed state DGP at the behest of Modi after he as senior National Investigation Agency (NIA) officer gave him and BJP president Amit Shah a "clean chit" in Gujarat riots and Ishrat Jahan alleged fake encounter cases.

Vijayan said those knowing him are aware that he was not a person to dance to the "whims and fancies" of the PM. "Anyone who knows me will never believe that I am a person who will act according to the whims and fancies of Modi. LDF is not here to sign along Modi's dotted lines," the Chief Minister said.

Ramachandran, who had served as Minister of State for Home Affairs for five years in the Manmohan Singh cabinet in 2009, made the allegation at a meeting of the Youth League in Vatkara in Kozhikode district. Lashing out at the Congress unit chief, Vijayan said if Ramachandran had come across such an issue, he should have informed the then home minister P Chidambaram.

"Why didn't he inform Chidambaram? Why was he waiting for last two and a half years? Why didn't he take necessary action when he was in power?" Vijayan asked.

Vijayan also said the UPA was in power for ten years. Ramachandran was a minister from 2009, the chief minister said. "He had five years. Why were they silent for all those years? His sincerity is under clouds of doubt. Why did he hide this information. His words can't be trusted," he said.

Vijayan also said if someone was trying to protect Modi and Shah, they should have taken it up and acted accordingly.

Ramachandran had said as a Union minister for five years, he had gone through several files. This included "those relating to the biggest riots

the country has seen the Gujarat violence, Ishrat Jahan case (relating to the "encounter" killing of a 19-year-old woman and three others on the outskirts of Ahmedabad) and lots of other cases in which Modi, (who was then Gujarat chief minister) and Amit Shah, were co-accused," he said.

Modi was accused of asking police to go soft on rioters targeting the Muslims. In 2012, he was cleared of complicity in the violence by a Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) which had questioned him for over 9 hours in the post-Godhra Gulberg society massacre case.

Ramachandran had alleged that Behara was one of the officers of the NIA, who had prepared the report "giving clean chit" to Modi and Shah.

The Congress leader had said the report had "amused all of us." As a quid pro quo, Ramachandran alleged, that Behara was appointed Kerala DGP on the directions of the Prime Minister.

Taking a dig at Vijayan, Ramachandran had alleged that Modi directed his "new found companion" to appoint Behara as DGP and he had obliged.Making a speech in Hindi probably for the first time, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray said on Sunday that migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar should question the leaders in their home states for lack of development.

Mumbai: Making a speech in Hindi probably for the first time, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray said on Sunday that migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar should question the leaders in their home states for lack of development.

Thackeray, known for his strident, son-of-the-soil rhetoric, addressed a rally organised by the Uttar Bharatiya Manch, an organisation of north Indians living in Mumbai. He said he was not there to give any clarifications for the past agitations of his party, but to make his argument in Hindi so that it would reach a wider audience.

"States such as Uttar Pradesh have given so many prime ministers, including current prime minister Narendra Modi (who is MP from Varanasi). None of you ask them (the leaders), why the state is lagging behind in industrialisation and why there are no jobs there," Thackeray said.

"Most of the migration to Mumbai is from UP, Bihar, Jharkhand and Bangladesh. All I want is if people are coming to Maharashtra in search of livelihood, they should respect the local language and culture.

"When I take a stand which leads to conflict with people from UP and Bihar, everyone comes down heavily on me. But after the recent attacks on Bihari people in Gujarat, nobody questioned the ruling party (BJP) or the prime minister (whose home state is Gujarat)," he said. Gujarat recently witnessed attacks on migrant workers following the rape of a baby girl, allegedly by a worker from Bihar.

"Similar opposition (to outsiders) was seen in Assam as well as in Goa, but those issues were never blown up by the media. But the coverage of my agitation is always colourful and widespread," said Thackeray, whose party had launched violent anti-north Indian protests in Mumbai in 2008.

"I want these poor states to prosper as well. But instead of asking questions to their leaders, most of them prefer to rush to Mumbai. The burden on the city's infrastructure is increasing," the MNS chief said.

"If the rights of local people are violated by outsiders, a conflict is bound to happen," he said. In the past, Thackeray has made it a point to address his rallies only in Marathi. He rarely speaks to the media in other languages.Ashok Gehlot asserted that there was a strong wave for the Congress in Rajasthan and the party will win the upcoming Assembly election with a huge margin.

Jaipur: Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot Monday demanded Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah to apologise for his remarks that leaders of the Congress should be held by collars to seek their work accountability.

"I fail to understand how Amit Shah could muster the courage to say it. He should apologise. We had lodged a complaint with the Election Commission but to no avail as they (BJP) are in power," he said addressing an election rally in Reodar of Sirohi district.

Shah had during a dialogue with youths here last week said people should hold Congress leaders by their collars if they approached them and ask what work these leaders had done for the public.

"...If political leaders will start holding each other by their collars, then what kind of law and order situation will prevail? How could he say so? the Congress leader said.

He asserted that there was a strong wave for the Congress in Rajasthan and the party will win the upcoming Assembly election with a huge margin.

Hitting out at Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over his "Lord Hanuman is Dalit" remarks, the former Rajasthan chief minister said they (BJP) have not even left Gods and have started dividing even Gods into castes.

He urged party workers to aim for Congress victory without any differences, adding that all party leaders in the state were united.

Gehlot added that the BJP was doing politics on non-issues in the state. Rajasthan will go to polls on December 7.Two-time chief minister Ashok Gehlot will be contesting the elections from his stronghold in Sardarpura constituency in Jodhpur.

Jaipur, Rajasthan: With the 2018 Assembly elections in Rajasthan only a week away, observers are closely watching the high-stakes electoral battle in the three constituencies where major political players of the state are putting their best foot forward to win their seats.

While incumbent Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje Scindia and former chief minister Ashok Gehlot are contesting from their stronghold constituencies  Jhalrapatan and Sardarpura  Rajasthan Congress president Sachin Pilot will be fighting the elections from Tonk.

In Jhalrapatan, Chief Minister Raje is pitted against Manvendra Singh  son of veteran leader Jaswant Singh  after he recently switched camps from BJP to Congress. In the Muslim-dominated Tonk constituency, Pilot will be contesting against BJPs lone Muslim candidate Yunus Khan. Gehlot, currently serving as the AICC general secretary as well, will be contesting from his safe seat in Sardarpura.

Interestingly, many believe that the Bharatiya Janata Party and Congress have considered several factors like caste and personal weightage before fielding high-profile candidates from these constituencies to ensure they spend maximum time in their segments.

Jhalrapatan

To wrestle power from Raje, a three-time Jhalrapatan MLA will not be a piece of cake. In order to up their game, Congress fielded a fellow Rajput  Manvendra Singh, who yields a considerable influence owing to his political background and caste.

That caste and religion are significant factors in Rajasthans political equations, comes as no surprise. Out of the over 2,73,404 voters in the Jhalrapatan constituency, approximately 15 percent are Muslims, 13 percent are SC-STs, OBCs stand at 11, Brahmins are 7 percent in number, Rajputs-Saundhiyas are at 12 percent, Dangis are at 6 percent while Mali and Mahajans are at 5 percent each among others.

In a calculated bid to gather support from Rajput-Saundhia group, Congress fielded Manvendra from the area to cut into BJPs traditional vote bank. The grand old party also enjoys support from the Muslim community in the constituency who generally tend to go with Congress.

As a matter of fact, Raje won the Jhalrapatan seat thrice consecutively and being the chief minister she has a good grasp over the voters across caste.

Since Manvendra hails from and had previously fought elections from the Barmer-Jaisalmer belt in western Rajasthan, his outsider status has become an arrow in BJPs quiver.

The Congress could not even decide who their CM-face would be and now they are dreaming that a candidate with no social contribution would defeat our chief minister (Raje), said Vimal Katiyar, BJPs state media in-charge, adding that they will secure a landslide victory in Jhalrapatan, Tonk and Sardarpura. He added that the BJP will form the state government again with a comfortable majority.

Tonk

Very few had expected that state Congress chief Sachin Pilot would choose Muslim-dominated Tonk constituency to contest the first Assembly elections of his political career. Elected first as an MP from Dausa in 2004, Pilot later joined the Manmohan Singh ministry after being elected as an MP from Ajmer in 2009. Since BJP needed a strong candidate to sway voters in Tonk, it chose to assign that responsibility to Yunus Khan, a state minister and BJPs only Muslim candidate in Rajasthan.

Out of the over 2.24 lakh voters in the Tonk constituency, approximately 20 percent are Muslims, 17 percent are SC-ST's, Gujjar stands at 14 percent, Rajputs at 4 percent, Mali at 3 percent and Bhramin-Jat-Bairba's are at 5 percent each among others.

Pilot, who belongs to the Gujjar community, is the first Hindu candidate nominated by the Congress in the area since four decades as it believes that the voters' caste combination here would benefit the Congress. Similarly, BJP has fielded a first time-Muslim candidate Yunus Khan to capture the Muslim voter base along with the support it traditionally receives from BJP enthusiasts. However, Yunuss own outsider status is proving to be a major obstacle against the CM-hopeful Pilot.

Senior journalist Pratap Rao said that Tonk is Muslim dominated, keeping in view this fact ruling BJP has played trump card of Yunus, a Muslim and battle has become interesting in the constituency. No doubt voters keep caste and other traditional factors in their mind, but it also matters that Pilot is a hopeful chief ministerial candidate.

Sardarpura

Two-time chief minister Ashok Gehlot will be contesting the elections from his stronghold in Sardarpura constituency in Jodhpur. The AICC general secretary won four consecutive Assembly elections from this seat and has been the legislator here for the past two decades.

In Sardarpura, 1,17,120 male and 1,10,021 female out of total 2,27,141 voters, approximately Rajputs are at 20 percent, 18 percent are Mali, Brahmins stand at 5 percent, SC-ST's are at 9 percent, Kumhar-Jat-Vishnoi's are at 9 percent among others.

Though a Mali by caste, Gehlot has a good grasp over traditional voters across the constituency. Like last year, BJP fielded Shambhu Singh Khetasar in Sardapura who was defeated by Gehlot with a margin of 18,478 votes in 2013.

Kazi Nizamuddin, AICC secretary and co-in-charge of Rajasthan Congress, is confident of a landslide victory for Gehlot and Pilot. I have been campaigning for candidates across the state and I can confidently say that Rajasthan has decided to oust the non-performing BJP government, he said adding that Manvendra too would bring in Jhalrapatnam into their kitty.

Apart from these seats, Udaipur and Nathdwara constituencies are also witnessing high-profile contests. In Udaipur, Congress has fielded former Central minister Girija Vyas against state Home Minister Gulab Chand Katariya. In Nathdwara, former Rajasthan Congress chief CP Joshi contesting against Mahesh Pratap Singh.

Senior journalist Narayan Bareth said though there is always keen contest in each constituency, the election battle in Jhalrapatan, Tonk and Sardarpura has become very interesting. However, grasp on the constituencies, voter-caste combination, election management and other factors indicate that Raje, Pilot and Gehlot are ahead of their political opponents in these Assembly segments.

The author is a freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters.com.Nizam Deccan Sugars Limited was shut in late 2015 over alleged mismanagement and falling sugarcane cultivation, depriving many farmers and workers of employment.

Nizamabad, Telangana: Telanganas Nizam Sugar Factory (NSF) is back to haunt politicians vying for power in the upcoming state election.

The 80-year-old factory of Nizam Deccan Sugars Limited in the states Nizamabad was shut in late 2015 over alleged mismanagement and falling sugarcane cultivation, depriving many farmers and workers of employment.

Four years later, it has become a contentious poll issue for the ruling K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR)-led TRS, the Congress and other Opposition parties in three constituencies  Kamareddy, Bodhan (where the factory is situated) and Banaswadi.

The affected workers have long been demanding reopening of the factory, even going on hunger strikes and rallies. In 2014, when Telangana was created out of Andhra Pradesh with KCR as its first chief minister, he had promised to restore the factory to its former glory, but he did not do so.

On the other hand, the TDP was in power in Andhra Pradesh in 2002 when Nizam Deccan Sugars, which operates the factory, was privatised and soon became beset with troubles.

Today, the abandoned factory  established in 1937 on around 15,000 acres by the last Nizam of Hyderabad, and the largest sugar factory of Asia at that time  stands as a testament to political meddling and false promises.

History

Located in the aptly-named Shakkar Nagar, NSF provided employment to around 3,000 people, and benefited thousands of sugarcane farmers as the company opened units in Metpally and Medak.

Until 2002, Nizam Deccan Sugars was under government control. That year, the Naidu government privatised the company, taking a 49 percent share. From 2002 onwards, the factorys management and the TDP government faced criticism over irregularities as the company fell into losses.

Locals say the factorys decline was due to irregular working hours and a lack of discipline among workers, while TRS workers allege that it was due to the illegal activities of then Congress MLA Sudharshan Reddy and the TDP government. Reddy was accused of illegally selling land belonging to the factory in collusion with the ruling government.

When the factorys workers were finally laid off, the hard times were blamed on lack of water and declining cane production.

But many refuse to believe that.

The layoffs were announced in December 2015 but the distillery unit, which requires a lot more water than the sugar unit, was running until October, says S Kumara Swamy, who worked in the factory for 30 years and leads the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU).

Once voted to power, KCRs government did try to take over administrative control of the company, but in late 2015, private partner Delta Sugars announced layoffs and the factory and its units were subsequently closed, adversely affecting the regions economy and ending livelihoods.

Once the factory was closed, many workers migrated from Shakkar Nagar, a colony that had been built especially for them. However, they yearn for the old days.

Workers plight

During my childhood, it would take me 15 minutes to cross the road in the evening when workers would return home on their cycles. Now its all empty, says K Praveen Kumar, sadly pointing to the empty road in front of his hair saloon.

Over four years, the laid-off employees have held many protests, visited all possible government offices and met politicians  but in vain.

Whenever KCR or Kavita (the chief ministers daughter and Nizamabad MP) or any TRS politician comes to Bodhan, the police take all workers in custody until the meeting is over. Don't we have the right to question? wonders V Saidu, a cobbler who once worked in the factorys mechanical department. He now sits in front of the Bodhan bus station with his mending tools, waiting for customers.

For three years, I didnt have any income as I spent time at government offices and meeting political leaders, including the chief minister, but no one responded to our pleas. Tired of all that, I now work as a cobbler and earn Rs 100-200 a day. I run my family on this meagre income, he rues.

The cane farmers, left high and dry after the factorys closure, shifted to paddy cultivation  a crop that requires even more water, is less resistant and not as profitable. The result: They grow cane on 10,000 acres yielding 30,000 tonnes of sugar, while earlier they used to produce 9 to 10.5 lakh tonnes of cane on an average every year on 3 to 3.5 lakh acres.

Hopes for revival?

Ahead of the Assembly elections, NSFs revival has again become a talking point for all parties. Candidates can be heard promising to reopen the factory if they come to power.

But TRS state leaders are tightlipped as the continued closure of the factory remains the partys biggest failure.

Addressing a public meeting in Bodhan recently, the chief minister spoke about water supply through Nizam sagar, Raithu Bandu schemes and power supply. But he skipped mentioning the sugar factory.

Yet TRS local candidates insist on raising the hopes of the agitated workers.

The TRS government has paid Rs 65 crore dues to the workers. KCR has tried his best to reopen the factory. He formed committees and they went to other factories to observe their functioning, Despite his efforts, he could not get the factory reopened during his tenure as farmers are not in a position to grow sugarcane now due to water scarcity and high cost of production, says Md Hamaz, TRS worker and father of MLA Shakil Aamir, pointing out that the TRS government opened Sirpur Paper Mills in Adilabad and will try its best to open NSF too.

Hamaz said that the factory had 18,000 acres of land given by the Nizam to grow sugarcane, but all the valuable chunks were sold to friends and relatives of TDP leaders.

Leaders of the Congress, too, while criticising the TRS government over its failure, assure the people they would reopen the factory.

The TRS government has deceived workers and farmers dependent on the factory. Given a chance, we will clear all the issues necessary to open the factory, says B Ganga Shankar, Bodhan Mandal Parishad president from the Congress.

People angry with the TRS government are keener to believe the Congress this time.

KCR and Shakil (local MLA) deceived us in the last election, says Saidu. Shakil told us he would hang himself if they dont take over the factory within 100 days. So I asked him when he had come for votes, how many lives do you have?. The other day, (Congress president) Rahul Gandhi assured us that he would reopen the factory, and we are confident the Congress will do that.

Some people are taking all these promises with a pinch of salt.

CITU leader Swamy pointed out that the National Company Law Tribunal has issued orders to liquidate Nizam Deccan Sugars.

Most of our people, who do not understand this, still believe the factory will be reopened. The previous day, when Sudharshan Reddy (now a Congress candidate) came here and said he would get the factory reopened, all the workers clapped, Swamy remarked sorrowfully.

(The author is a freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters.com)Targeting caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Modi said he was surprised that 'these power-hungry people, to save their chair for their family, resorted to such a step'.

Hyderabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday alleged the caretaker Telangana government is betraying the country and insulting the Constitution architect BR Ambedkar by proposing religion-based reservation with 12 percent quota for Muslim minority while stealing the rights of Dalits.

Addressing an election rally in Hyderabad, he said that great leaders of the country, while framing the Constitution, had decided against religion-based reservation at any cost in the interest of the nation's unity and integrity and for its bright future.

Targeting caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Modi said he was surprised that "these power-hungry people, to save their chair for their family, resorted to such a step".

"Minority ko aarakshan dene ka khel, yeh desh ke saath gaddari hai ki nahi? (Playing this game of promising quota to the minorities, is it not betrayal to the nation)?" he said and wondered how the promise will be met as the current Supreme Court's order does not permit it.

"Is it not an insult to the Constitution Assembly, is not an insult to BR Ambedkar?" Modi asked.

"The Supreme Court has put a ceiling (of 50 percent). You can't go beyond that. Does it mean that you would steal from the rights (quota) of Dalits, STs, and OBCs?," he asked.

"To save your chair, you are conspiring to steal their rights (Dalits, STs and OBCs) from the back door. Will you allow that sin to happen...should there be religion-based reservation?," he asked the crowd.

Referring to Congress president Rahul Gandhi's charge that the TRS is a "B" team of the BJP, Modi said it is in fact the KCR-led party which is the "B" team of the Congress.

The prime minister pointed out that before the Karnataka Assembly polls, "Naamdar (Rahul) had described the JD(S) as 'B' team of the BJP but after the results were declared, they joined hands and formed the government."

"He (Rahul) speaks so many lies," Modi said, alleging that the Congress was already engaged in "back door talks to somehow stop the BJP (from coming to power in Telangana)".

Modi said that four of the five parties in contention in the Telangana elections  the TRS, Congress, TDP and AIMIM  perpetuate dynastic and family rule.

"They (these four parties) are becoming a threat to democracy," he said, adding that "there is only one party...BJP, which is democratic".

He said many people have sacrificed their lives during the struggle for creation of a separate state of Telangana.

Targeting the TRS chief, Modi said "nobody has given one family the right to loot".

The prime minister also recalled that Rao was earlier in the Youth Congress and also had his first "apprenticeship" in the TDP, noting that he was once with that party.

He said that Rao was also a minister in the UPA-I.

TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi were his "gurus", he said.

Slamming the electoral alliance between the Congress and the TDP, Modi said that NTR founded the latter in the name of "Telugu pride" and fought against the Congress. He claimed that the two parties have come together "only for the sake of power".

The TDP has also become a dynastic and family-ruled party, he said. Modi said that the Congress and the TRS are "two sides of the same coin".

He said about Rs 30,000 crore worth of centrally-funded projects and Rs 8,000 crore worth railway projects are currently being implemented in the state.

The prime minister slammed Rao over his government's decision not to join the PMJAY health insurance scheme.

"He (KCR) says he does not want Ayushman Bharat scheme. If there is a government creating such hurdles, how can there be your (people's) welfare?"

Over 1.25 crore families have been handed over keys of their house so far during the NDA regime, Modi said.

Only 5,000 houses were built in Telangana. "When the central government is providing funds, why is the state government not taking it up"? he asked.The manifesto which was released by TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao also promised enhancement of all types of Aasara pensions from Rs 1000 to Rs 2016.

Hyderabad: Enhancement of retirement age of government servants by three years to 61 and unemployment allowance to youth are among the promises made in the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) manifesto released on Sunday for the 7 December Assembly elections.

The manifesto which was released by party chief K Chandrasekhar Rao also promised enhancement of all types of Aasara pensions from Rs 1000 to Rs 2016.

For differently abled persons, it would be doubled from Rs 1500 to Rs 3016 even as theage eligibility for old age pension would be reduced from 65 to 57 years.

"The retirement age of the government employees will be enhanced from the present 58 to 61. Simultaneously, the unemployed youth will be provided with ample opportunities by increasing the recruitment age limit by three more years. The unemployed youth will also be given Rs 3016 allowance," it said.

"While continuing the construction of double bed room houses as per the existing norms, those poor people who own a plot and are desirous of constructing a house on their own will be provided financial assistance, ranging from Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 6 lakhs," the manifesto said.

The investment support of Rs 8,000 per acre for agriculture to farmer under Rythu Bandhu would be increased to Rs 10,000 per acre and up to Rs one lakh farm loan would be waived.

"The health profile of every individual, as well as that of state would be developed," it added.Reuters

Russias intelligence services were behind cyber attacks targeting the Czech foreign ministry last year, the Czech security service said on Monday in its annual report.

The BIS counter-intelligence service has long warned against Russian activity in the Czech Republic, a member of NATO since 1999 and of the European Union since 2004. Many other Western countries have issued similar warnings.

In its report, BIS said two separate attacks on the Czech foreign ministry were partly the work of the APT28 hacking group, which is linked to the Russian government and has been blamed for past attacks in Germany and the United States.

All the findings make clear that it was the Turla cyberespionage campaign, originating from the FSB, a Russian intelligence service, and APT28/Sofacy, which is credited to the Russian military intelligence, the GRU, the annual report said.

In a hack of the ministrys information system, it said, attackers, accessed more than 150 staff mailboxes, copying emails and attachments. They thus obtained data that may be used for future attacks, as well as a list of potential targets in virtually all the important state institutions, it said.

The Czech foreign ministry said at the time it believed a foreign state was behind the cyber attacks on it but said no confidential material was compromised.

As in previous years, the report warned of Russias continued use of undeclared intelligence officers acting under diplomatic cover as part of a general hybrid strategy against member states of the European Union and NATO.

The Russian government was not immediately available on Monday to comment on the BIS accusations.

BIS also reported increased activity by Chinese intelligence officers and a growing worry of espionage in the economic, scientific and technical domains.

Czech President Milos Zeman has vigorously promoted political and business ties with both China and Russia.

BIS said it had also detected several attacks against Czech military targets, with the most serious compromising several private email accounts of people linked to the Defence Ministry and army and also compromising an IP address by malware know as X-Agent.Reuters

The US House Judiciary Committee will likely put off until next week a hearing with Google chief executive Sundar Pichai on the Alphabet Inc units social media practices because of the state funeral of former President George HW Bush, Chairman Bob Goodlatte said on 2 December.

Pichai had agreed to testify before the panel over Republican concerns that the company is biased against conservatives after it skipped a high-profile Senate hearing. Google has denied it is biased toward conservatives.

The hearing has been scheduled for 5 December, the same day a state funeral will be held for Bush at the National Cathedral in Washington.

Goodlatte said in an interview with Fox News Sunday Morning Futures that he expected the hearing to be rescheduled for next week.

But we expect that to occur and its very, very important that it do occur, he said.

In addition to queries about possible political bias, lawmakers may also examine Googles potential investments in China.

Google previously told US lawmakers it was considering options to offer additional services in China, but declined to detail plans for addressing Chinese censorship.

The company has come under criticism after reports it was considering re-entering Chinas search engine market and would comply with its internet censorship and surveillance policies.Indo-Asian News Service

Even as the engagement of technology companies in military projects continues to raise eyebrows, Microsoft President Brad Smith has said that the software giant is willing to "provide the US military with access to all the technology" it creates.

Taking part in a panel discussion at the Reagan National Defense Forum at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California on 1 November, Smith acknowledged that "there is some angst" in some workforces, including Microsoft's, about tech companies' involvement in military contracts, the Los Angeles Times reported.

In June, thousands of Google employees raised objections to a contract that allowed the military to use the company's Artificial Intelligence tools to analyse drone footage. Google then decided not to renew the contract.

Smith said Microsoft was open to hearing the concerns of the company's workers.

This is not the first time Microsoft made its position clear on issues related to engagement with the US military.

In late October Microsoft CEO, Satya Nadella and Smith addressed this issue in a conversation with the employees at the company's monthly Q&A session.

"We believe in the strong defence of the United States and we want the people who defend it to have access to the nation's best technology, including from Microsoft," Smith said.

"We don't ask or expect everyone who works at Microsoft to support every position the company takes. We also respect the fact that some employees work in, or maybe citizens of, other countries, and they may not want to work on certain projects.

"As is always the case, if our employees want to work on a different project or team  for whatever reason  we want them to know we support talent mobility," he added.

Microsoft has worked with the US Department of Defense (DOD) on a longstanding and reliable basis for four decades.

"You'll find Microsoft technology throughout the American military, helping power its front office, field operations, bases, ships, aircraft and training facilities. We are proud of this relationship, as we are of the many military veterans we employ," the Microsoft President wrote in a blog post.

Recently Microsoft bid on DOD's Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure cloud project  or "JEDI"  which will re-engineer the Defense Department's end-to-end IT infrastructure, from the Pentagon to field-level support of the country's servicemen and women.Reuters

US smartphone chip manufacturer Qualcomm Inc considers the prospect of an acquisition of NXP Semiconductors as closed, the company said on Monday.

While we were grateful to learn of President Trump and President Xis comments about Qualcomms previously proposed acquisition of NXP, the deadline for that transaction has expired, which terminated the contemplated deal, a Qualcomm representative said via email. Qualcomm considers the matter closed.

China was open to approving the previously unapproved deal for Qualcomm to acquire NXP should it again be presented, the White House said in a statement over the weekend after a meeting between Chinese and US leaders.

In July, Qualcomm, the worlds biggest smartphone-chip maker, walked away from a $44 billion deal to buy NXP after failing to secure Chinese regulatory approval, becoming a high-profile victim of the China-US trade dispute.Press Trust of India

WhatsApp chief has written to the Reserve Bank of India, seeking a formal nod to expand payments services to all its 200 million users in India. The messaging app, which has drawn fire from the government over spread of fake messages on its platform, continues to wait for a regulatory clearance to launch full-fledged payments operations in India, months after its 'testing' amassed nearly one million users, and almost two years since it first began discussions with the government on its payments services plans.

The development comes at a time when competitors such as Google have forged ahead with their payments offerings.

WhatsApp is currently piloting WhatsApp payments, and its chief Chris Daniels has now written to the RBI urging that a formal approval be granted to take the payments product to all its users in the country.

"I write to request your formal approval to immediately expand WhatsApp's BHIM UPI (Unified Payments Interface) compliant payments product to all users in India, giving us the opportunity to offer a useful and secure service that can improve the lives of Indian people through digital empowerment and financial inclusion," Daniels said in the letter addressed to the RBI Governor.

The letter, dated 5 November, mentions that WhatsApp's partner banks have also submitted a request for formal approval.

When contacted, a WhatsApp spokesperson said the platform is working closely with the Indian government, National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), and multiple banks, including payment service providers to expand the feature to more people and support the country's digital economy.

"Today, almost 1 million people are testing WhatsApp payments in India. The feedback has been very positive, and people enjoy the convenience of sending money as simply and securely as sending messages," the company's spokesperson said, responding to a specific email query on the recent plea to the RBI.

In the letter, WhatsApp noted that the platform had rushed to ensure that the payments data is stored in India, immediately after the RBI came out with a directive outlining the new payments data storage requirements in April this year.

"Today, (the) RBI has unfettered supervisory access to payments data as prescribed by the RBI circular," said the letter. PTI has seen a copy of the letter.

The Facebook-owned company has also demanded a "level playing field" for all companies that offer payment services, including "a certain and transparent regulatory and operating environment".

WhatsApp has also made a case for scaling up its operations by citing the productivity gains that have accrued to Indian small business as a result of the digital tool, and expressed its deep commitment to the market.

"Based on feedback from NPCI and our bank partners, we are confident that we are fully compliant with the UPI checklist, have made all necessary submissions and have passed the security audits required to launch WhatsApp Payments," Daniels said.

It could not be immediately ascertained if the firm has received any response from the RBI to its letter.

WhatsApp's ambitious payment services' blueprint has been caught in a bind, over concerns around authentication and its data storage practices. In the past, its homegrown rivals have alleged that WhatsApp's payment platform has security risks for consumers and is not in compliance with the guidelines.

WhatsApp has been under tremendous pressure to put in place a mechanism to curb fake news on its messaging platform that incited mob fury in India. Over a dozen people have been killed across the country this year in mob lynchings, fuelled by rumours circulating on WhatsApp.

The rumours ranged from suspicion of stealing children to victims being believed to be killing cows. Riots have been instigated by people forwarding and misinterpreting videos on WhatsApp.

The government has, on several occasions, warned the company that it can't evade responsibility if its messaging service is used to spread false information. The Centre has directed WhatsApp to develop tools to combat fake or false messages, and, more importantly, to identify message originators.

Apart from the traceability request, the government had asked WhatsApp to set up a local corporate presence and appoint a grievance officer to address complaints.tech2 News Staff

Microsoft overhauled its Office icons last week after a period of five years and it now seems like the company is also changing its Windows 10 icons alongside its Office suite.

Microsoft is modernizing its icons as part of a broader focus on design for its various Office apps, as per a blog post by Jon Friedman, partner director of design at Microsoft. While the Redmond company is yet to state it officially, the blog post did suggest that once the changes to Office are made, the design changes will be scaled across all Microsoft products including Window 10.

As spotted in a report by The Verge, Friedman in a response to a question about Visio and other Office apps, reveals that "those are coming in subsequent stages," and that "it is a huge undertaking to build a common system and design (Windows) 10 icons at the same time".

The head of Microsoft Office Design in another response on the blog post asked the reader to "stay tuned, this is the beginning of a cross-company effort to update all icons in the same style".

Now, Microsoft has in the past tried a number of design changes for Windows, however, Windows 10 still features icons in some parts of the OS that have been there for the better part of a decade. If Friedman's post is anything to go by, Microsoft is finally working on a broad icon design across the entire company and it could finally put an end to past inconsistencies.tech2 News Staff

Climate change is one of the most prominent talking points across the world today. The threat that global warming is bringing about is very real and very dangerous. Greenhouse gases and industry and vehicle emissions are seen as the primary reason for climate change and if strict rules are not positioned the consequences could be disastrous.

Poland is ground zero for UN's ambitious Climate Change Conference (COP24), where world leaders are gathered with the goal of finalising the implementation guidelines for the Paris Climate Change Agreement. As such this Climate conference has been called as Paris 2.0 by the UN climate change executive secretary Patricia Espinosa.

What was the Paris climate agreement?

Putting aside the controversial walkout by the Trump administration from the Paris Climate accords, the basic premise was that global governments had agreed to stop the rise in global average temperature to well below2-degree Celsius.

The target set by Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Changes (IPCC) however, was 1.5-degree Celsius and it was also signed by 184 parties bringing it into force by November 2016.

As per a report by Al-Jazeera, restricting the temperature rise to 1.5-degree Celsius instead of 2-degree Celsius would keep the water level down by 100 cm in the year 2100. Decline of Coral reefs would be to about 70-80 percent rather than being completely wiped out.

So while the Paris climate agreement was the stepping stone which laid down the foundation for working towards climate change, the COP24 is where nations will actually start doing something about it.

What makes COP24 so important?

The 2018 deadline set by the Paris climate agreement is already past, countries have to step forward for a greener future.

A report by The Independent has said that richer nations have to make it clear that they have intentions to support financially strained nations in reducing the emission levels.

A rulebook will be designed at COP24 which will consist of the various efforts that countries will be taking to control the escalation of greenhouse gases and how these efforts will be strengthened over time. Developing countries will have flexibility in how to keep up with the changes.

The World Bank has announced $200 billion (which is approx Rs 13.95 lakh crore) towards in investment in climate change from 2021-2025.

COP24 will also conclude the year-long, Fiji-led Talanoa Dialogue, the first-ever international conversation of its kind to assess progress towards the goals of the Paris Agreement, including the goal of limiting global temperature increases.

During the high-level event that will conclude the Talanoa Dialogue, ministers will consider the IPCC's 1.5 degrees Celsius report and its relevance in the context of future actions.

The Problems

As per the report, China is being considered as a developing country which means that it will not be following the same procedures as other countries which has made the US unhappy. Poland's reliance on coal along with Saudi Arabia's oil-driven economy is being termed as 'problematic'.

Diplomatic strains between some of the participating nations is also being considered as big issue that will create roadblocks for climate change.

Brazil also withdrew its offer to host the United Nations Climate Conference, the COP25, next year giving reasons such as budget constraints and presidential transition. New President-elect Jair Bolsonaro, has threatened to withdraw Brazil from the climate accords completely.

It is high time that countries put aside their petty differences and come together as one to save the planet from the impending doom of climate change.Kshitij Pujari

Climate change has become one of the biggest talking points in the world at the moment. India is also doing its part to move ahead for a sustainable future.

The Institute for Energy Economic and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), an international organisation that researches impacts of energy and renewables on finance and the economy, claims that India could meet as much as 40 percent of its total energy needs from renewable sources by 2020, the Indian Express reported.

This is one of the biggest commitments India has made towards its climate change goals  and has aimed to deliver on it ten years ahead of the original deadline of 2030.

Apart from that, the government has also committed to cutting down emissions by about 35 percent of the country's GDP by 2030, effectively creating a carbon sink of nearly 3 billion tonnes by 2030 by afforestation.

The IEEFA also recently published a report on why a proposed power plant in Uttar Pradesh  the Khurja coal-to-energy plant  would be a bad idea. The project, which was slated as a solution to power shortages in 2010, has been delayed multiple times since.

The report makes an example of Khurja as an outdated solution  overpriced, no longer relevant and sure to worsen Delhi's pollution problems. "The renewable energy power generated in India is cheaper than the proposed Khurja plant," the report concludes. The IEEFA's full investigative report can be found here.

Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan is due to give India's progress at the current COP24 climate summit later today. United Nation's Climate change conference, called the COP24 begun today in Poland, bringing together world leaders to decide on the fate of global climate change policy to address the mounting threats to poses to both people and planet.

Some of these policies were agreed upon during the Paris climate agreement in 2015, following which the COP24 will help nations agree on how to implement them. Just how many promises were made for climate change in the COP meetings?

At the COP21 in 2015, the key point of discussion was how a universal agreement on climate can be reached to keep the rise in global temperatures this century below 2C. The conference, held in Paris, had 196 countries participating in it to set a course towards a zero-emissions future. All the countries came away from Paris agreeing that the inevitable temperature rise should not exceed 1.5C.

Towards this, 20 countries announced an increase in R&D investments for clean energy.

Germany, Norway and the United Kingdom announced $5 billion in funding to protect forests. $1 trillion was to be mobilised by a new global alliance for solar energy.

Over 400 cities across the world targetted cutting their emissions by half.

Goldman Sachs announced $150 billion in clean energy projects and technology by 2025.

China  one of the biggest emitters of greenhouse gases  had announced that it would designate $3.1 billion through its South-South Climate Cooperation Fund to fund climate change mitigation.

Australia had promised to reduce emissions to 26-28 percent on 2005 levels by 2030 and also promised a $2.55 billion Emissions Reduction Fund along with improvements to its Safeguard Mechanism.

Now, experts are warning that Australia is going to miss its anti-pollution targets as recent reports have shown that greenhouse gas emissions have climbed 1.3 percent.

The Trump administration last year walked the US out of the Paris Climate accords and has often said that global warming is a hoax. The withdrawal of the US from the Paris Agreement also meant that other countries would not make similar efforts if the biggest emitter of all is not part of the solution.

This has put China centre-stage as the leader taking the reigns on climate change policy.

With all that has transpired between the Paris Agreement in 2015 and the COP24 today, many academics and researchers have come to an agreement that the global climate crisis needs to be urgently addrssed, and given far greater importance by leaders than it presently is.

The COP24 will end with an exchange of action points and revised targets for the steps taken by the various member countries towards meeting the 1.5C, which no single country is on track to do, according to a recent UN report.Indo-Asian News Service

India's heaviest communication satellite with high throughput GSAT-11 will be put into orbit by the Ariane-5 rocket of Arianespace from French Guiana on 5 December 2018, the Indian space agency said.

According to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the GSAT-11 weighing 5,854 kg is the heaviest satellite built by it.

The satellite is scheduled for launch onboard Ariane-5 launch vehicle from French Guiana.

The satellite will be initially placed in the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit and will subsequently be raised to geostationary orbit by firing the satellite's onboard motor.

According to ISRO, GSAT-11 is the forerunner in a series of advanced communications satellites with multi-spot beam antenna coverage over Indian mainland and islands.

The satellite with a mission life of 15 years will have 32 user beams (Ku band) and eight hub beams (Ka-band) and the throughput data rate of 16 Gbps.

GSAT-11 will play a vital role in providing broadband services across the country. It will also provide a platform to demonstrate new generation applications.

The Indian space agency said the GSAT-11 will be used to meet the increased data demands with high data rates over regions using spot beams.

The satellite will support BharathNet connecting gram panchayat for e-governance and digital platforms; VSAT terminals and for enterprise network and consumer broadband applications.

In April 2018, ISRO had recalled GSAT-11 from Arianespace's rocket port in French Guiana for further tests, to be on the safe side.

"We are bringing back the GSAT-11 satellite to carry out some tests to be doubly sure of its performance orbiting in the space. There is nothing more to it," K Sivan, Chairman ISRO had told IANS then.

The GSAT-11 was planned to be launched mid-May. The satellite had reached Arianespace's rocket port in March 2018.

The ISRO's move to call back GSAT-11 for further tests and be doubly sure of its performance may be due to the loss of the recently launched GSAT-6A satellite, soon after it was put into orbit on 29 March.

ISRO suspected the failure of the power system in the satellite for the loss of communication link.

"The satellites are powered by solar panels that charge the onboard batteries. The batteries are fully charged when the satellite is loaded on to the rocket.

"Even if there is a problem with the solar panel, then the battery power should have kicked in. Here the entire power system of the satellite seems to have failed," one space expert told had IANS earlier.

According to experts, the power system could have failed due to some short-circuiting or arcing resulting in what is known in the space terminology 'loss of lock' or loss of contact with the ground station.

Satellites in space are locked to ground stations for tracking and other purposes.

On 29 March, Indian rocket Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) slung GSAT-6A in its intended orbit. From there the satellite was to be taken up further to its orbital slot by firing its onboard motors.

The first orbit raising operation was successfully carried out by firing the onboard motors for around 36 minutes on 30 March morning.

The second orbit raising operation of GSAT-6A satellite was also successful as its motors were fired for about 53 minutes on 31 March.

After that, the communication link got snapped.Quashing the political ambitions of jailed ex-Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia, the election authority on Sunday rejected her nomination papers from three constituencies, citing her convictions in two corruption cases.

Dhaka: Quashing the political ambitions of jailed ex-Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia, the election authority on Sunday rejected her nomination papers from three constituencies, citing her convictions in two corruption cases. The Election Commission's decision came four days after the Bangladesh High Court ruled that a person jailed for more than two years cannot contest polls. The 73-year-old ex-premier is currently serving jail terms in two graft cases involving charities named after her slain husband Ziaur Rahman.

Zia had filed nomination papers from three constituencies  two from northwestern Bogra and one from southeastern Feni  for the 30 December polls, but the returning officers of the two districts scrapped her nominations as she was convicted by the court, an EC spokesperson said. Nearly 104.2 million people, including some 51.6 million women, are registered as voters. They will elect 300 representatives to Parliament through the balloting in about 40,199 polling stations. As per election rules, a candidate declared unfit to contest polls can appeal to an EC tribunal for revised decisions or could challenge the commission decision to the High Court. Besides Zia, the nominations of 15 high-profile candidates were also disqualified on different grounds, the spokesperson said.

Zia has been in custody since 8 February, when the Dhaka Special Court convicted her in the Zia Orphanage Trust graft case and sentenced her to five years of imprisonment for embezzling 21 million Bangladeshi Taka ($ 252,504) in foreign donations meant for the Trust. On 30 October, the High Court doubled her jail term to 10 years. On 29 October, a trial court convicted her in the Zia Charitable Trust graft case and sentenced her to seven years in prison and imposed a fine of Tk 1 million ($12,024).

Zia was made vice-chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the largest political opposition of the country, in March 1983 after the assassination of her husband. She became chairperson of the party on 10 May, 1984, a post she is holding till now. In her 35 years of political career, Zia went to the jail several times. During the 2007-2008 tenure of the army-backed caretaker government, she was in jail for about a year on charges of corruption.

The BNP continued to remain in a state of political disarray with Zia in prison and her "fugitive" elder son Tarique Rahman, who is the vice chairman of the party, staying in London after a Dhaka court recently sentenced him life imprisonment for masterminding a deadly attack on a political rally in 2004. The BNP, which boycotted the 2014 elections under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League (AL) government over fears that it would be rigged, has set up an alliance with the newly formed National Unity Front (NUF) led by eminent jurist Kamal Hossain.

Bangladesh politics is deeply divided, with rivals Hasina and Zia, popularly referred to as "Battling Begums", ruling the country alternately since 1991, when democracy was restored in the Islamic nation. Both the women emerged from political dynasties. While Zia is the widow of Ziaur Rahman, a general-turned-president who was assassinated in 1981, Hasina is the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country's first president who was assassinated in 1975.As early parliamentary elections are nearing in Armenia, the internal political competition is becoming tougher. I dont mean competition between political forces because the election campaign is taking place on the background of total domination of My Step, a bloc headed by Nikol Pashinian. Observers agree that the main intrigue of the upcoming elections is what political party will play the role of the opposition in the parliament and how big Pashinians win will be.

According to a GALLUP International Association opinion poll, My Step will take 68.3 per cent of votes, Prosperous Armenia  6.7 per cent. If we rely on the opinion poll of November 23rd, there will be only two political forces in the parliament and Prosperous Armenia is hardly to be called an opposition to Pashinian. 68 per cent is an impressive result. However, its much lesser than 81 per cent, the support that My Step had in the Yerevan Elders Council elections in September when the Armenian society was under a spell of revolutionary euphoria.

Despite their no-lose position, members of the ruling bloc are making one mistake after another. And each of them can lead to serious negative consequences for Pashinian and his blocs popularity.

Confrontation with the Karabakh clan

Recently, Nikol Pashinian had made several quite expressive and ambiguous statements which caused strong public reaction in Armenia. For example, he heavily criticized representatives of the regime in Nagorny Karabakh, addressing to its leader Bako Saakyan. A supporter of Pahinian, the head of the Civil Contract Party, Sasun Mikaelyan, stated: We won the Karabakh war but Im not afraid to say that the victory earned by you, the Armenian people, in our country is more important than the Karabakh liberation war. Considering the reality of uber-nationalistic Armenian society, the statement is a certain provocation. Mikaelyan understood that as well  thats why he said Im not afraid to say as he realized seditiousness of his idea and later he refined his statement. However, Karabakh Armenians, including representatives of the unrecognized regime, expectedly started to criticize the head of the Civil Contract. And the violent reaction of the peoples Premier followed the criticism soon:

I dont really understand firing of the Nagorny Karabakh authorities. Why are they stirring up, making a lot of comments and trying to interfere with the election campaign of the parliamentary elections in Armenia? I have to say I have a lot of questions on the issue and I will definitely discuss the questions with Bako Saakyan. And before that, I urge Mr. Saakyan to pacify members of his government and make them do their job, Pashinian said. Then he pointed out that the spokesman of Karabakh President commented on his statements every other day.

I dont understand hows that the spokesman of Karabakh President comments on my statements every other day. Can you imagine that my spokesman comments on known and unknown developments in Karabakh? Can you imagine consequences and results of that? Get over and do your job! Of course I will discuss everything Ive mentioned after the elections. But ahead of the elections, just do you job, Pashinian said.

At the same time, the peoples Premier didnt mention his favorite threat to bring them facedown on pavement. He had already addressed it to Sasna Tsrer, RPA, and everybody who dared to disagree with him.

No doubt, reformation of the Karabakh authorities is included into Pashinians agenda as Bako Saakyans team is too closely connected with his political rivals. Moreover, Nikol Pashinian suspects his critics of treason and working for foreign intelligence. He urged the National Security Service and the Military Counterintelligence to check the option. Its a very strange demand in the mid of the election campaign for a politician who calls himself a democrat.

The CSTO Secretary General

Another sensitive issue for Pashinian is an appointment of the new Secretary General of the CSTO who obviously wont be an Armenian representative. The current situation reveals a serious political failure  the Armenian Premier let Yuri Khachaturov be arrested, i.e. directly placed his internal political goals above interests of the allied organization. Pashinians recent statement that the problem of the CSTO Secretary General is insignificant should be considered as an attempt to downplay his failure. Moreover, the failure harmed relationships with Kazakhstan and Belarus as Pashinian demanded explanations from their presidents in a rough-and-tumble manner.

Investigation of the Case of March 1st, 2008

One of key promises of Pashinian was deep investigation of the case of March 1st, 2008 when after numerous falsifications in the presidential elections which led to a shift of power from Robert Kocharyan to Serzh Sargsyan, the opposition protests were cruelly put down by security forces and 8 people and 1 soldier were killed. However, during 7 months of his premiership, Pashinian hasnt reached the set priority goal. Despite Pashinian and his teams pressure on judicial authorities, Robert Kocharyans case is stuck, in no small measure due to absence of a possibility to get the former Defense Minister Mikael Arutyunyan who is a Russian citizen now.

No real success of the new government

It seems the main problem of Nikol Pashinian is that his team has failed to present real achievements in the socio-economic sphere during 7 months. We also dont see a breakthrough in relations between Armenia and its foreign political partners, including the EU. The only resource of Pashinians popularity is still the fact that he made the very unpopular government of Serzh Sargsyan leave peacefully. At the same time, we shouldnt fully trust the authorities statement that emigration from the country is stopped.

Nikol Pashinian also says that other achievement is relative peace on the border and the fighting line. However, obviously, Yerevan is interested in peace on the contact line, considering the difficult internal political situation. Azerbaijan which expects continuation of negotiations with the new Armenian authorities after the parliamentary elections doesnt intend to rock the boat. Baku believes that to deal with Nikol Pashinian is easier and more promising than to deal with the Karabakh clan.

Is there democracy at all?

Finally, Pashinians statement on the victory of democracy and people as a result of the Armenian revolution has small credibility of outsiders. In any democratic state, after publishing of a wiretapped dialogue between heads of the National Security Service and the Special Investigation Service, which proves pressure on judicial authorities on Pashinians direct order, loud resignations would take place. Meanwhile, Pashinian accused Kocharyan and Sargsyan of counterrevolutionary intrigues and successfully hushed up the wiretapping case.

After a big win of My Step in the Yerevan Elders Council elections, Pashinian insisted on shifting the parliamentary elections to the closest date to secure the majority in the National Assembly. Before the Elders Council elections and high results of My Step, the parliamentary elections were suggested to be held next year. At the same time, Pashinian regularly threatens his political opponents to nail to the wall and bring them facedown on pavement.

In the conclusion I would like to say that Pashinians promises that the upcoming elections in Armenia will be phenomenal in the most positive sense of the word are appeared to be groundless. Of course My Step will get the electoral majority which is the main goal of shifting the elections to December. However, the level of support will be lower than Pashinian expects and his popularity will decrease from month to month. When the real level of support of My Step will turn to be much lower than the number of gained mandates in the National Assembly, Armenia gets back to the situation when the country has illegitimate parliament with the single-party majority. The only difference is the instead of RPA it will be My Step.By Guy Faulconbridge ST ANDREWS, Scotland (Reuters) - The chief of Britain's foreign intelligence service warned the Kremlin on Monday not to underestimate the West after a brazen nerve agent attack on a retired double agent in England stoked fears about Russian covert activity abroad.

By Guy Faulconbridge

ST ANDREWS, Scotland (Reuters) - The chief of Britain's foreign intelligence service warned the Kremlin on Monday not to underestimate the West after a brazen nerve agent attack on a retired double agent in England stoked fears about Russian covert activity abroad.

In his second major speech since being named in 2014 to head the Secret Intelligence Service, or MI6, Alex Younger, ranged across the global threats faced by Britain as it prepares to exit the European Union in less than four months.

Russia, the only national adversary named in his scripted speech, has a stance of "perpetual confrontation" with the West, said Younger, citing the nerve agent attack on former Russian agent Sergei Skripal in March in the English city of Salisbury.

Western allies ordered the biggest expulsion of Russian diplomats since the height of the Cold War in response to the attack, in which Britain said Russian GRU military intelligence agents had used the Novichok nerve agent against Skripal.

"The Russian state used a military-grade chemical weapon on UK soil," Younger told students at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, where he once studied economics and computer science before joining the British army and then MI6.

"Our intention is for the Russian state to conclude that, whatever the benefits it thinks it is accruing from this activity, they are not worth the risk," said Younger.

Moscow has repeatedly denied any involvement and accused British intelligence agencies of staging the attack to stoke anti-Russian hysteria.

Skripal, an officer in Russian military intelligence, betrayed dozens of spies to MI6, though he was later pardoned and exchanged in a Cold War-style spy swap.

The motive of the attack remains unclear, as is the logic of using such an exotic nerve agent, which has overt links to Russias Soviet past.

"I should emphasise that even as the Russian state seeks to destabilise us, we do not seek to destabilise Russia. We do not seek escalation," Younger said.

Younger, 55, also said that Britain's spies have thwarted multiple Islamic State plots originating overseas. MI6 continues to work with partner agencies to strengthen "indispensable security ties" in Europe, he said, adding that Britain had helped France and Germany prevent terrorist attacks.

GO EAST?

Answering questions from students, Younger said the global balance was tilting towards China as the world's second largest economy gains significant capital, political clout and technological dominance.

"Basically, power, money and politics is going east," he said. "That's a new political reality we need to adjust to."

He said 5G reliance on Chinese technology was something Britain needed to discuss, though a bigger issue was the likely Chinese future dominance of emerging technologies.

Younger said he had been struck by President Xi Jinping's "made in China" ambitions and that Beijing could within decades dominate all of the key emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, synthetic biology and genetics.

"This is something we really need to think about," Younger said. "The future of knowledge is in play."

A career spy who joined MI6 as the Soviet Union was crumbling, Younger said that while technologies advanced, human intelligence remained crucial.

"Even in an era of artificial intelligence you need human intelligence, in fact it will become even more important."

In a recruitment pitch, Younger gave some details of his own life, including drinking obscure homemade alcohol in an attempt to penetrate an organisation intent on genocide in the Western Balkans in the 1990s.

(Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Kevin Liffey and Gareth Jones)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.Dutch man Emile Ratelband had last month asked the court in Arnhem to formally change his date of birth to make him 49, instead of his real age of 69

The Hague: A Dutch court has rejected the request of a self-styled positivity guru to shave 20 years off his age, in a case that drew worldwide attention.

Emile Ratelband had last month asked the court in Arnhem to formally change his date of birth to make him 49, instead of his real age of 69.

He claimed he didn't feel 69 and argued his request was consistent with other forms of personal transformation which are gaining acceptance in the Netherlands and around the world, such as the ability to change one's name or gender.

But in a written ruling on Monday, the court said that Dutch law assigns rights and obligations based on age "such as the right to vote and the duty to attend school. If Ratelband's request was allowed, those age requirements would become meaningless."Kamala Harris became San Francisco's first female district attorney in 2003 and the state's first black  and nation's first Indian American  district attorney

Known for her 'infectious' personality and nicknamed the "joyful warrior", Indian-origin US Senator Kamala Devi Harris' meteoric rise as a lawmaker will catapult her to new heights if she decides on a potential presidential bid to take on President Donald Trump in 2020. Harris became San Francisco's first woman district attorney in 2003 and the state's first black  and nation's first Indian-American  district attorney.

She was California's attorney-general for more than five years before becoming the a Senator in California in 2016. She made history as the first African-American woman to represent California in the Senate and as the first Indian-American Senator in the country. Known for regularly speaking on social issues such as gun control laws, gender equality and immigration, Harris has strong support among Asian-Americans in the country.

Harris was recently ranked fifth in a November poll of Democratic voters' preferred nominee in a recent survey conducted by the Politico News. On Saturday, the 54-year-old lawmaker, in an interview to MSNBC's Morning Joe program, had said that she will decide whether to run for a potential presidential bid during the upcoming holiday season. She also added that "the choice would be a family decision".

India connect

Born in Oakland, California, she is the daughter of an Indian mother who migrated to the US from Chennai in 1960 and a Jamaican-American father. Her father Donald Harris came to the US in 1961 and was an economics professor at Stanford. Her mother Shymala Gopalan is from Tamil Nadu and emigrated from Chennai in 1960. She was also a well-known researcher for breast cancer and she passed on in 2009. Harris' parents separated when she was five. She has a younger sister, Maya, also a lawyer.

Harris was married in an Indian and Jewish ceremony in 2014 to Douglas Emhoff, who is a partner with her at law firm Venable LLP's Los Angeles office.

Contender for presidential race?

A year in the Senate and Harris had propelled her career by espousing causes closest to middle-class America such as bills to pay, children to educate, immigrants to protect, jobs to find and vets to be cared for. Unless you are a native American or were kidnapped and brought here on a slave ship, said the eloquent woman, You are an immigrant. Hence, the nation founded on immigrants cannot separate families and pull children away from their parents through a toxic anti-immigration policy, Harris had remarked earlier.

Considered close former president Barack Obama, the first black American president, she was fondly called the "female Obama" during the former president's governance.

Harris' appeal is similar in several ways to Obama, cited media reports, who also said that she is a "product of today's multi-racial, mobile America". They say that her "compelling life story and trails innovative ideas the way some women do perfume." Obama had created a stir by saying, "Kamala is the best looking attorney-general of the United States."

In fact, months before the Politico survey, Harris was introduced most seriously by Ellen Degeneres as the next President of the United States. The Politico survey also former US vice-president Joe Biden, Independent senator Bernie Sanders, Beto ORourke, Elizabeth Warren and Cory Booker in the race for presidency. Around 26 percent voters in the poll say Biden is their first choice to be the Democratic nominee. Harris, meanwhile, secured four percent of the votes.

With inputs from PTIQatar, one of the wealthier nations in the West Asia region, on Monday announced that it will withdraw from the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in January 2019.

Qatar, one of the wealthiest nations in West Asia region, on Monday announced that it will withdraw from the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in January 2019. The country's new energy minister Saad al-Kaabi announced the decision, which comes at a turbulent time in the Gulf's politics, with the on-going boycott against it by former neighbouring allies like Saudi Arabia.

"Qatar has decided to withdraw its membership from OPEC effective January 2019 and this decision was communicated to OPEC this morning," Kaabi said at a Doha press conference. Kaabi, who also heads state-owned Qatar Petroleum, denied the move was linked to the feud with Saudi Arabia and its allies. The decision was "technical and strategic" and had "nothing to do with the blockade," he said.

In a statement, al-Kaabi said Qatar, the worlds largest exporter of liquified natural gas, planned to increase its exports from 77 million tons of gas per year to 110 million tons. "We don't have great potential (in oil), we are very realistic," said Kaabi, who described himself as "Mr Gas" during the conference. "Our potential is gas."

Qatar's oil production is around 600,000 barrels per day and it is the world's 17th largest producer of crude oil, according to specialist website, world data.info. It also only holds around two percent of the world's global oil reserves, according to the CIA World Factbook.

OPEC is dominated by oil-rich Saudi Arabia, which along with its allies has had no ties with Qatar since June 2017. Relations between Riyadh and Doha are at an all-time low as a result of the crisis, which has seen Saudi-led countries accuse Qatar of supporting terrorism and being too close to Iran. Qatar refutes the allegations and claims rivals want to overthrow its government.

Founded in in 1960, the organisation's objective was to "coordinate and unify petroleum policies among member countries", along with working to secure fair prices for the producers. The OPEC was also formed with the intention of an "efficient, economic, and regular supply of petroleum to consuming nations", and promised a "fair return on capital" to investors.

OPEC's trajectory over the decades

The exports of the member countries has seen a consistent rise and fall since the 1980s. However, the organisation's export has not dipped under the percentage of 1986 but has not risen to its glory days in the 1970s and early 1980s either.

The 1970s, which was the decade after the organisation's inception, saw it rise to international prominence. Member countries were calling the shots on the price of crude oil at a global level. The official website says, "OPEC broadened its mandate with the first Summit of Heads of State and Government in Algiers in 1975, which addressed the plight of the poorer nations and called for a new era of cooperation in international relations, in the interests of world economic development and stability."

However, the cartel saw a steep decline in its exports from 1980 to 1985. The rate of exports dropped more than 20 percent from 68.21 in 1980 to 45.48 in 1985. The situation in exports continued to be in tumult as the next year saw only a nominal increase to 48.58 percent before collapsing back to 45.93 percent in 1987. The sudden crash in 1986 was attributed to the oil glut and a consumer shift away from oil. The crash resulted in "severe economic hardships" for the member countries.

The OPEC production group's plan to mop up oversupply by introducing output cuts failed due to three reasons: Fellow OPEC members cheated on their own cuts; global thirst for oil had dried up after price spikes in the 1970s pushed consumers to buy efficient cars; and new supplies, particularly from non-OPEC Mexico, Norway, and Alaska threatened to squash gains from any cuts.

The OPEC found its footing in the 1990s, with a steady rise from 1988 at 47.91 percent to 1993, when the rate of exports was at 57.86 percent. According to the website, "timely OPEC action" kept the member countries from being affected by the West Asian hostilities in 1990-1991. The organisation sought "fairness, balance, and realism" in the dealings of oil supply.

Even though this decade also saw a decline from 1993 to 1998, "a solid recovery" was possible. The website says, "A solid recovery followed in a more integrated oil market, which was adjusting to the post-Soviet world, greater regionalism, globalisation, the communications revolution, and other high-tech trends. Breakthroughs in producer-consumer dialogue matched continued advances in OPEC/non-OPEC relations."

However, OPEC also saw the exit of one member nation, while another suspended its membership. Ecuador and Gabon ended their memberships in 1992 and 1995 respectively, however, both countries have currently rejoined the cartel as members.

The OPEC's downward trajectory began again in 1999 and continued into the 2000s, when the rate of exports touched 50.22 percent in 2002. The early years of the decade saw strength and stability in crude prices through "innovative oil price band mechanism". 2004 saw the start of a cautious rise to 54.23 percent on the back of a combination market forces and speculation, among other factors.

The official website says, "Oil was used increasingly as an asset class. Prices soared to record levels in mid-2008, before collapsing in the emerging global financial turmoil and economic recession. OPEC became prominent in supporting the oil sector, as part of global efforts to address the economic crisis.

"OPECs second and third summits in Caracas and Riyadh in 2000 and 2007 established stable energy markets, sustainable development and the environment as three guiding themes, and it adopted a comprehensive long-term strategy in 2005."

Even though the organisation saw its highest rise since the 1980s after 2010, increasing political and social unrest like the American occupation of Iran affected supply and demand of crude oil in the first half of the decade. However, according to reports, the market remained largely balanced. Even with various adverse factors, OPEC saw a rise in the rate of exports in 2012, when it went from 56.57 percent in 2010, to 61.36 percent.

However, "a combination of speculation and oversupply" caused the prices to fall in 2014. Currently, the latest rate stands at 55.55 percent in 2017.

According to reports, Qatar's withdrawal could lead to a downtrend in the oil markets. Azernews quoted Sabit Baghirov, ex-head of Azerbaijan's State Oil Company (SOCAR) as saying, "As you know, oil prices are very volatile and political factors play a role in this. I do not believe that Qatars withdrawal from the OPEC will lead to a domino effect and that OPEC countries are ready for this trend. But it can serve as a certain impetus in this direction, since Qatar is quite an influential country in the energy market."

With inputs from agenciesBy Drazen Jorgic ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Pakistan said on Monday U.S. President Donald Trump has sought its help with faltering Afghan peace talks, part of intensifying efforts by Trump to end one of America's longest wars. Trump, in a letter to new Prime Minister Imran Khan, asked for Pakistan's 'support and facilitation' in negotiating an end to the war and offered to renew the strained relationship, Pakistan's foreign ministry said

By Drazen Jorgic

ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Pakistan said on Monday U.S. President Donald Trump has sought its help with faltering Afghan peace talks, part of intensifying efforts by Trump to end one of America's longest wars.

Trump, in a letter to new Prime Minister Imran Khan, asked for Pakistan's "support and facilitation" in negotiating an end to the war and offered to renew the strained relationship, Pakistan's foreign ministry said.

The overture to Khan represents a sea change from Trump's normally harsh rhetoric towards Pakistan, and will add to growing speculation that the United States is planning to pull out of Afghanistan in the near future.

The U.S. president wants to bring to a close the 17-year-old conflict between Afghan security forces and the Taliban, who are fighting to drive out international forces and reestablish their version of strict Islamic law after their 2001 ouster.

A White House official said Trump had sent a letter to Khan "requesting Pakistans full support for the U.S.-led Afghan peace process" and assistance to U.S. special envoy for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, in a current trip to the region.

U.S. officials have long been pushing Pakistan to lean on Taliban leaders, who Washington says are based inside Pakistan, to bring them to the negotiating table.

"He has asked for Pakistan's cooperation to bring the Taliban into talks," Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry told Reuters.

Trump told Khan the Pakistan relationship was very important to the United States and to finding a solution to the Afghanistan conflict, Chaudhry added.

Trump has been open about his desire to bring home about 14,000 U.S. troops who remain in Afghanistan as part of Resolute Support and a separate counter-terrorism mission aimed against militant groups such as al Qaeda and Islamic State.

"President Trump has also acknowledged that the war had cost both USA and Pakistan. He has emphasised that Pakistan and USA should explore opportunities to work together and renew partnership," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

The ministry added that Pakistan is committed to playing "a facilitation role in good faith".

"Peace and stability in Afghanistan remain a shared responsibility."

UNEASY ALLIES

Trump has appointed Afghan-born U.S. diplomat Khalilzad as a special envoy for Afghanistan, tasking him with pushing through peace talks.

Khalilzad last month set a deadline of April 2019 for the war to end. But Afghan Taliban militants last month rejected the proposed deadline and said a three-day meeting in Qatar between their leaders and Khalilzad, to pave the way for peace talks, ended with no agreement.

Khalilzad on Sunday began an eight-country tour, which includes Pakistan, Russia and Qatar, to promote peace and convince the Taliban to join negotiations.

In Trump's letter, "the president recognizes that Pakistan has the ability to deny the Taliban sanctuary on its territory. The letter also makes clear that Pakistans assistance with the Afghan peace process is fundamental to building an enduring U.S.-Pakistan partnership," the White House official said.

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.

Last month, Trump said in an interview Pakistan doesn't "do a damn thing" for the United States despite billions of dollars in U.S. aid, adding that Pakistani officials knew of former al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden's location before his killing by U.S. troops in a 2011 raid inside Pakistan.

Khan hit back by saying the United States should not blame Pakistan for its failings in Afghanistan.

Pakistani officials, who deny offering safe havens to the Afghan Taliban, say their influence on the group has waned over the years.

Last week, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said he had formed a 12-strong team to negotiate peace with the Taliban, but warned that implementation of any deal would take at least five years.

On Monday, the Pentagon said that a U.S. soldier injured in a roadside bomb blast last month in Afghanistan had died of his injuries.

The U.S. military said Sergeant Jason Mitchell McClary died of his injuries in Landstuhl, Germany, bringing the number of U.S. troops killed in the Nov. 27 explosion in Ghazni to four.

(Reporting by Drazen Jorgic. Additional reporting by Idrees Ali in Washington; Editing by Clarence Fernandez and Alistair Bell)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.By Roberta Rampton and Michael Martina BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - China and the United States agreed to a ceasefire in their bitter trade war on Saturday after high-stakes talks in Argentina between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, including no escalated tariffs on Jan. 1

By Roberta Rampton and Michael Martina

BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - China and the United States agreed to a ceasefire in their bitter trade war on Saturday after high-stakes talks in Argentina between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, including no escalated tariffs on Jan. 1.

Trump will leave tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports at 10 percent at the beginning of the new year, agreeing to not raise them to 25 percent "at this time", the White House said in a statement.

"China will agree to purchase a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial, amount of agricultural, energy, industrial, and other product from the United States to reduce the trade imbalance between our two countries," it said.

"China has agreed to start purchasing agricultural product from our farmers immediately."

The two leaders also agreed to immediately start talks on structural changes with respect to forced technology transfers, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and cyber theft, services and agriculture, the White House said.

Both countries agreed they will try to have this "transaction" completed within the next 90 days, but if this does not happen then the 10 percent tariffs will be raised to 25 percent, it added.

The Chinese government's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi, said the negotiations were conducted in a "friendly and candid atmosphere".

"The two presidents agreed that the two sides can and must get bilateral relations right," Wang told reporters, adding they agreed to further exchanges at appropriate times.

"Discussion on economic and trade issues was very positive and constructive. The two heads of state reached consensus to halt the mutual increase of new tariffs," Wang said.

"China is willing to increase imports in accordance with the needs of its domestic market and the people's needs, including marketable products from the United States, to gradually ease the imbalance in two-way trade."

"The two sides agreed to mutually open their markets, and as China advances a new round of reforms, the United States' legitimate concerns can be progressively resolved."

The two sides would "step up negotiations" toward full elimination of all additional tariffs, Wang said.

The announcements came after Trump and Xi sat down with their aides for a working dinner at the end of a two-day gathering of world leaders in Buenos Aires, their dispute having unnerved global financial markets and weighed on the world economy.

After the 2-1/2 hour meeting, White House chief economist Larry Kudlow told reporters the talks went "very well," but offered no specifics as he boarded Air Force One headed home to Washington with Trump.

China's goal was to persuade Trump to abandon plans to raise tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods to 25 percent in January, from 10 percent at present. Trump had threatened to do that, and possibly add tariffs on $267 billion of imports, if there was no progress in the talks.

With the United States and China clashing over commerce, financial markets will take their lead from the results of the talks, widely seen as the most important meeting of U.S. and Chinese leaders in years.

The encounter came shortly after the Group of 20 industrialized nations backed an overhaul of the World Trade Organization (WTO), which regulates international trade disputes, marking a victory for Trump, a sharp critic of the organization.

Trump told Xi at the start of their meeting he hoped they would achieve "something great" on trade for both countries. He struck a positive note as he sat across from Xi, despite the U.S. president's earlier threats to impose new tariffs on Chinese imports as early as the next year.

He suggested that the "incredible relationship" he and Xi had established would be "the very primary reason" they could make progress on trade.

Xi told Trump that only through cooperation could the United States and China serve the interest of peace and prosperity. Washington and Beijing have also increasingly been at odds over security in the Asia-Pacific region.

At the same time, Trump again raised with Xi his concern about the synthetic opioid fentanyl being sent from China to the United States, urging the Chinese leader to place it in a "restricted category" of drugs that would criminalize it.

The White House said Xi, "in a wonderful humanitarian gesture", had agreed to designate fentanyl a controlled substance.

Xi also said that he was open to approving the previously unapproved Qualcomm-NXP deal should it again be presented to him, the White House added.

"This was an amazing and productive meeting with unlimited possibilities for both the United States and China. It is my great honor to be working with President Xi," Trump said in the statement.

WTO REFORMS

Earlier on Saturday, the leaders of the world's top economies called for WTO reform in their final summit statement.

Officials expressed relief that agreement on the communique was reached after negotiators worked through the night to overcome differences over language on climate change.

The final text recognized trade as an important engine of global growth but made only a passing reference to "the current trade issues" after the U.S. delegation won a battle to keep any mention of protectionism out of the statement.

Trump has long railed against China's trade surplus with the United States, and Washington accuses Beijing of not playing fairly on trade. China calls the United States protectionist and has resisted what it views as attempts to intimidate it.

The two countries are also at odds over China's extensive claims in the South China Sea and U.S. warship movements through the highly sensitive Taiwan Strait.

In addition to tariffs on Chinese goods, Trump has imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports into the United States this year. Numerous countries have filed litigation at the WTO to contest the levies.

The United States is unhappy with what it says is the WTO's failure to hold China to account for not opening up its economy as envisioned when China joined the body in 2001. The European Union is also pushing for sweeping changes to how the WTO operates.

G20 delegates said negotiations on the summit statement proceeded more smoothly than at a meeting of Asia-Pacific leaders two weeks ago, where disagreement on protectionism and unfair trading practices prevented a consensus.

European officials said a reference to refugees and migration - a sensitive issue for Trump's administration - was excised to ensure consensus.

On climate change, the United States once again marked its differences with the rest of the G20 by reiterating in the statement its decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement and its commitment to using all kinds of energy sources.

The other members of the group reaffirmed their commitment to implement the Paris deal and tackle climate change.

International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Christine Lagarde said high levels of debt accumulated by emerging market nations was a pressing concern.

U.S. officials said a call by G20 leaders for the IMF and World Bank to improve monitoring debt levels was aimed at ensuring that developing economies did not become to heavily indebted to China in return for infrastructure projects.

U.S. officials have warned about China's increasing influence across swaths of the developing world, including Latin America. G20 summit host Argentina is expected to sign a series of deals with China on Sunday during a one-day state visit by Xi.

Apart from trade and climate change, Russia's seizure of Ukrainian vessels drew condemnation from other G20 members, while the presence of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the summit raised an awkward dilemma for leaders.

Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler arrived amid controversy over the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, though Saudi officials have said the prince had no prior knowledge of the murder.

The leader of the OPEC heavyweight had a series of bilateral meetings at the summit, including a closely watched encounter with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

(Reporting by Roberta Rampton, Michael Martina, Matt Spetalnick, Maximilian Heath, Scott Squires, Cassandra Garrison, Daniel Flynn and Kylie Maclellan in Buenos Aires; Dave Shepardson and Humeyra Pamuk in Washington, Ben Blanchard in Beijing and John Ruwitch in Shanghai; writing by Matt Spetalnick and Daniel Flynn; editing by Ross Colvin, Alistair Bell, Jonathan Oatis and Will Dunham)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.By Richard Cowan WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Congress, facing a Friday deadline for approving around $450 billion in funding for several government agencies or forcing them into a partial shutdown, is steering towards a two-week extension as President Donald Trump and Republicans argue over border wall funding

By Richard Cowan

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Congress, facing a Friday deadline for approving around $450 billion in funding for several government agencies or forcing them into a partial shutdown, is steering towards a two-week extension as President Donald Trump and Republicans argue over border wall funding.

Congressional aides said the House of Representatives was poised to quickly approve on Monday an extension to Dec. 21.

The Senate would also have to approve the measure this week, which would continue funding for several agencies at last year's levels.

Without action by Congress, federal agencies including the Department of Agriculture, State Department and Department of Homeland Security would find themselves without any money to pay employees and administer programs through the fiscal year that ends next Sept. 30.

Trump has demanded $5 billion for this year as part of his plan to build a wall on the border with Mexico that Democrats argue would be ineffective at keeping out illegal immigrants and illicit drugs.

Instead, Democrats want to continue improving less costly fencing and employing high-tech instruments to detect illegal border crossings.

The total cost of the wall project is expected to exceed $25 billion and could spark lawsuits over the government seizing private property in some construction areas.

In a Monday Twitter post, Trump wrote, "We would save Billions of Dollars if the Democrats would give us the votes to build the Wall. Either way, people will NOT be allowed into our Country illegally! We will close the entire Southern Border if necessary. Also, STOP THE DRUGS!"

Previously, Trump has threatened to force a partial government shutdown if Congress does not give him the money he wants for the wall.

The president had been scheduled to meet on Tuesday with House of Representatives Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer to discuss the impasse.

But memorial observances in the Capitol for former President George H.W. Bush have postponed that meeting.

If at any point Congress and Trump cannot agree on legislation to keep the government agencies running, essential services, such as the FBI and other federal law enforcement, would continue.

But some vital programs would have to be suspended until the money dispute was resolved.

For example, visitors most likely would not be admitted to national parks, some Securities and Exchange Commission and Internal Revenue Service activities could be curtailed, as well as some Justice Department programs.

Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation of Russia's meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential elections would continue, according to congressional aides.

Funding already is in place for many agencies, such as the Defense Department.

(Reporting by Richard Cowan; editing by Jonathan Oatis)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.With settlement between Apple and Qualcomm looking unlikely at this point, the trial for Qualcomm long legal war has been set to begin April 15 in San Diego federal court. U.S. District Judge Gonzalo Curiel scheduled the trial at a hearing Friday. Though Qualcomm had sought to begin the trial in February, Curiel said the April date was needed to accommodate the courts schedule.

He also noted that the complexity of the litigation and the prominence to the Qualcomm and Apple require more time. Earlier this week, Qualcomm Chief Executive Steve Mollenkopf said that the San Diego cellular technology firm was on the doorstep of finding a resolution to the dispute with Apple. However, Apple attorney William Isaacson told Curiel on Friday that a settlement wasnt in the cards.

Since early 2017, Qualcomm and Apple have been waging a wide-ranging legal war over royalties that Qualcomm charges for use of its patented cellular technology. As for Apple, it no longer pays royalties to Qualcomm and has also ditched using Qualcomm chips from the latest iPhone models. Qualcomm has sought to ban iPhone imports in the U.S., Germany, and China.

It also has accused Apple of stealing trade secrets and supplying them to rival Intel. According to Apple, Qualcomm is getting paid twice for its intellectual property  once when it licenses its patent portfolio and a second time when it sells cellular modem chips. However, Qualcomm says there is nothing illegal about its business practices. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has sued Qualcomm for antitrust violations along similar lines as the Apple lawsuit.

The trial in the FTCs antitrust case is scheduled for Jan. 4 in U.S. District Court in San Jose. The outcome of that trial could play a role in the San Diego federal case. Qualcomm and the FTC have both said they are pursuing a settlement.

SourceArmenia's parliament deputy Aram Harutyunyan, in his capacity as Minister of Nature Protection in 2008, received a $14 million bribe in order to issue special licenses for the study and operation of ten non-ferrous metal ores in Syunik, Gegharkunik, Lori, and Kotayk Provinces, the Prosecutor Generals Office reported.

Subsequently, Harutyunyan committed money laundering by way of making remittances to bank accounts that were opened in other peoples names in another country.

Under this criminal case, criminal charges have been brought against two people, and on the count of aiding an official in taking a large bribe. An order for their arrest has been issued, and a search for them has been declared, News.am reported.

Prosecutor General Artur Davtyan has submitted a petition to the NA to give its consent for launching a criminal prosecution against NA deputy Aram Harutyunyan, and for remanding him in custody.By continuing to browse our site you agree to our Privacy & Cookie Policy. > Privacy & Cookie Policy I AgreeEven though marijuana stocks failed to duplicate their impressive returns in 2016 and 2017, this year will still go down as the most impressive to date for the cannabis industry.

To begin with, we witnessed Canada become the very first industrialized country to legalize recreational marijuana on Oct. 17. When the industry is running on all cylinders within a few years, it should be capable of generating in the neighborhood of $5 billion in added annual sales as a result of the Cannabis Act's passage. And, for investors, this should result in some clear winners within the cannabis space.

Within the U.S., two additional states voted in favor of medical cannabis initiatives during midterm elections last month, pushing the number of legalized states to 32. Residents in Michigan also voted in favor of a proposal there to green light adult-use pot. Now, one-fifth of all U.S. states allow for the consumption of recreational weed.

Aphria's four most-defining moments this year

Among popular individual marijuana stocks, few had as exciting a year as Aphria (NASDAQ:APHA). Even though its stock is notably lower, year to date, as are most pot stocks, Aphria had four major events that stood out in 2018 that have the potential to drive growth in the years that lie ahead.

1. A partnership with Double Diamond Farms

One of the biggest announcements this year came early in January when it appeared that the Cannabis Act would eventually gain approval in Canada's Parliament. On Jan. 10, Aphria entered into a strategic relationship with Double Diamond Farms to retrofit existing vegetable-growing greenhouses for cannabis production. This partnership (now known as Aphria Diamond) was geared at adding 120,000 kilograms of annual production at peak capacity, with the retrofit expected to be complete by January 2019.

Prior to this partnership, Aphria was primarily working on a single organic project, known as Aphria One. This four-phase, more than $100 million project was expected to yield around 100,000 kilograms at peak production. It, too, will be complete sometime in January 2019. This partnership more than doubled the company's maximum annual output at the time to 220,000 kilograms.

Thanks to Aphria One and Aphria Diamond, the company is expected to slot in as the third-largest producer by annual peak output at 255,000 kilograms.

2. The CA$425 million acquisition of Nuuvera

Another big moment for Aphria was the March 27 announcement that it had completed its cash-and-stock acquisition of Nuuvera for 425 million Canadian dollars. Since most marijuana deals tend to be share-heavy with little or no cash component attached, the final value of this transaction was hundreds of millions of dollars less than when the deal was originally announced as a result of a decline in Aphria's share price.

Although this was a highly criticized deal -- Nuuvera didn't add anything in the production department, and Aphria's management team disclosed ownership stakes in Nuuvera just a day prior to the closing of the deal -- it did help push Aphria into new markets. Nuuvera had infrastructure already laid in eight foreign markets. With Aphria's existing foreign deals, and the announcement of a supply deal with Argentina just days before the Nuuvera deal closed, Aphria had increased its sales presence to a dozen total countries.

With the strong possibility of domestic dried flower oversupply beginning early next decade, these foreign markets will be leaned on heavily to purchase excess supply.

3. The announced construction of an extraction center

In June, Aphria dazzled Wall Street and investors once again when it announced that it would construct a CA$55 million extraction facility that would allow the company to produce approximately 25,000 kilograms of cannabis-equivalent concentrates per year, when fully operational. The press release at the time noted that the first concentrates would be ready for sale as early as March.

What makes this announcement so important is that cannabis alternatives like concentrates typically have higher price points and juicier margins than dried cannabis flower. Even though we're talking about narrowing the consumer pool a bit, alternative products are less likely to be commoditized and face pricing pressures, which should lead to healthy operating margins.

Aphria has already been a leader in pushing cannabis oil use to its registered medical patients, and the addition of an extraction center gives it yet another margin advantage over its peers.

4. Uplisting to the NYSE

Lastly, in early November, Aphria's common stock officially began trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

Why uplist from the over-the-counter (OTC) exchange, you ask? For starters, listing its shares next to time-tested, publicly traded businesses on the NYSE provides an added level of validity to the burgeoning marijuana industry. Secondly, not all Wall Street institutions are allowed to invest in or cover companies listed in the OTC exchange. By uplisting, Aphria put out the welcome mat for increased institutional coverage and investment. And third, it should help boost liquidity, which could invite more investors to dip their toes in the water, so to speak.

The big question

Of course, what investors are probably eager to know is what the future holds in store for Aphria. To that end, I do see plenty of potential, but with a lot of near-term risk.

As Canada's third-largest grower by forecast, it should have no trouble securing long-term supply deals and finding foreign markets to purchase some of its production. A diversified product line with plenty of alternative cannabis products won't hurt, either. There's even a chance that it could find itself a brand-name partner in the beverage, tobacco, or pharmaceutical industry in the upcoming year.

However, Aphria has been spending aggressively in order to get its Aphria One and Diamond projects finished. It's also constructing its extraction center and making acquisitions from time to time. This all means rising expenses and the high probability of operating losses in the near term.

As long as investors stick with their long-term perspective and don't get too caught up in what could be some ugly operating losses in fiscal 2019, Aphria has a chance to thrive.Computers and soft drinks don't have a lot in common, but both IBM (NYSE:IBM) and Coca-Cola (NYSE:KO) are in similar situations on the business side of things.

Both companies are currently undergoing major transformations to position themselves for long-term growth. IBM has fallen way behind other tech giants in the fast-growing cloud market. Meanwhile, Coke has faced its own set of challenges with politicos and consumers turning against sugary sodas, which has made growth difficult to come by in recent years.

We'll run down each company's strategy, capital returns, and valuation to determine which of the two stocks investors should buy today.

Big Blue has been slow to catch up

IBM has underperformed the broader market for the last seven years as the company scrambles to keep up with nimble competitors. While Amazon.com and other tech leaders have run away with the cloud market, Big Blue has had to shed slower-growing, less profitable legacy hardware businesses while shifting toward faster-growing areas like security, cloud, data analytics, and blockchain -- what management refers to as "strategic imperatives."

The latest big development was the announced acquisition in late October of enterprise software provider Red Hat for $34 billion. Management expects the deal to accelerate revenue growth, margin expansion, and free cash flow within 12 months of closing.

While top-line growth has been nothing to be excited about, IBM's strategic imperatives revenue grew 13% in the last quarter, and it now makes up half of total revenue. Given that IBM is so massive, with $80 billion in annual revenue, this transition may take a while before investors see significantly improved growth, but the acquisition of Red Hat may help.

Nonetheless, analysts currently expect flattish growth on both the top and bottom lines this year, and next, for Big Blue.

The total beverage company

Sugary sodas have fallen out of favor with many consumers, which has made growth difficult to come by over the last decade for the beverage giant. To compensate, Coke has expanded into non-soda categories, such as tea, coffee, and juices, to find growth.

Coke announced in August that it would acquire Costa, a coffee company based in the U.K., for $5.1 billion. Energy drinks could also be a growth opportunity. Coke has had a distribution agreement with Monster Beverage, but the company may launch its own Coca-Cola branded energy drink, according to reports.

Additionally, management has refranchised its bottling operations and has focused on producing lower-calorie beverages and smaller package sizes. These moves are expected to reduce costs and lift margins over time.

So far, the company's strategy seems to be working. Adjusted revenue has accelerated this year to the mid-single-digit range, and operating margin expanded six percentage points in the third quarter. Analysts expect Coke to post earnings per share of $2.08 for 2018, representing growth of 8.9% over last year.

Dividends

Neither IBM nor Coke is going to make Fortune's fastest-growing companies list, but both companies are very well established in their respective markets. One of the most appealing characteristics of both companies are the generous capital returns to shareholders.

Big Blue recently raised its quarterly payout to $1.57 per share, marking the 23rd straight year it has raised its dividend. The company has paid a dividend for 103 consecutive years.

Coke's quarterly payout is currently $0.39 per share. The company has paid a dividend every year since 1920 and has increased the dividend for 55 straight years.

Currently, IBM has a higher dividend yield, at 5.2%, while Coke's yield is 3.2%. IBM's higher yield looks even better when looking at the percentage of free cash flow each company pays out as dividends each year.

This table shows IBM's and Coke's payout ratios as a percentage of free cash flow:

Payout Ratio as a % of Free Cash Flow IBM Coke TTM through Q3 2018 44.2% 124.3% 2017 42.5% 118.8% 2016 40.1% 92.5% 2015 37.4% 71.9%

As you can see, IBM not only has a higher dividend yield, it also pays out less than half of its annual free cash flow in the form of dividends. Because of this, Big Blue has ample room to raise its dividend going forward.

Keep in mind that the acquisition of Red Hat could potentially put pressure on IBM's ability to pay generous dividends, as my colleague Leo Sun previously discussed. But given the company's relatively low payout ratio as a percentage of free cash flow, and since management assured investors that the Red Hat acquisition will support a growing dividend, I'm willing to give IBM the benefit of the doubt for now.

On the other hand, Coke is currently paying out more than 100% of its annual free cash flow as dividends, which is not sustainable. That percentage has been getting higher in recent years, which could severely limit the company's ability to grow its dividend going forward.

Which is the better buy?

Based on its higher yield and lower payout ratio, IBM is the better dividend stock, and it also trades at a much cheaper forward P/E of just 8.6 times next year's earnings estimates.

On the other side, Coke trades at a higher forward P/E of 22 times next year's earnings estimates, which looks expensive given the company's single-digit growth.

Although Coke is growing earnings faster, IBM could be significantly undervalued at current prices, although there are risks. IBM has been trying to accelerate its growth for years and hasn't managed to do that yet. The company has a minuscule share of the cloud market, but it still posted growth in its cloud business of 20% in the third quarter.

As Big Blue's strategic imperatives revenue becomes a larger contributor to the company's top line, the company should get back on a growth track. At such a cheap valuation, any hint of sustained growth would send IBM's share price higher.

While shareholders wait for Big Blue's transformation to take hold, they are getting paid a generous dividend yield of more than 5%, which should make the wait worthwhile.

In my view, IBM is the better buy.We usually focus on stocks here on Industry Focus, but investing in one of the biggest assets most people own -- their house -- could pay off in spades, too. In this week's episode of Industry Focus: Energy, host Nick Sciple and Fool.com contributor Brian Feroldi explain how solar paneling your roof might just lead to a 12% return on investment.

Find out how to tell if solar paneling is right (i.e., profitable) for you, how much it all costs, the most important tax credits and grants to know about before hopping in, how to find the best installation deals, how your solar panels could turn your energy bill negative, and more.

A full transcript follows the video.

This video was recorded on Oct. 18, 2018.

Nick Sciple: This episode of Industry Focus was pre-recorded on October 18th, so some things may have changed. For more information on investing in residential solar, please be sure to check out Brian's write up on residential solar at the link in the description.

Welcome to Industry Focus, the podcast that dives into a different sector of the stock market every day. Today is Thursday, and we're discussing residential solar. I'm your host, Nick Sciple, and today I'm joined by Motley Fool contributor Brian Feroldi via Skype. How are you doing, Brian?

Brian Feroldi: I'm doing fantastic, Nick! How are you?

Sciple: I'm doing well! I heard you just came back from a pumpkin patch this morning. Is that right?

Feroldi: Yeah. My youngest daughter, I have two daughters, is in pre-k. This morning, her pre-k went on a field trip to a pumpkin patch. I don't know why, but today it's 43 degrees out in Rhode Island and super windy. So I froze my tush off at a pumpkin patch this morning. How's your day going?

Sciple: It's going alright. We've got a little bit of that cold weather coming through here in the D.C. area, as well. I remember just last week, I was walking around in shorts and a T-shirt. Now I'm all bundled up. It really snuck up on us.

Brian, I really like our topic today. We spend a lot of time at The Motley Fool and on Industry Focus specifically talking about stocks and investments, but probably not enough time talking about the average person's largest investment: their home. On today's episode, we're going to discuss how to figure out whether solar is right for your home. On the second half of the show, we'll break down how you can take advantage of solar incentives to guarantee yourself a double-digit return on your solar investment while increasing your home's value.

First, let's talk about the federal tax credit that's making these types of returns possible. Brian, in 2006, the federal government put in place a 30% solar investment tax credit. That tax credit provides a 30% tax credit for investment in residential solar, as well as some industrial solar. That's been a big part of the explosion in solar access in the United States. According to Solar Energy Industries Association, since this tax credit was put in place in 2006, and it was extended in 2015, we've seen 59% compound annual solar growth since that tax credit was put in place. It's really been a boon for the solar industry.

Brian, why don't you talk about, what does a homeowner have to do to qualify for this tax credit? When is that tax credit going to start coming off? Give us some details about that.

Feroldi: As you said, the tax credit is 30% of the cost to install the system. It's important to point out that it's an actual credit, meaning that 30% literally comes off of your tax bill. It's a really powerful incentive to get people to adopt solar. As long as you own the system yourself and put it on your house, aka you're not leasing it from a solar company, that investment goes right back on your taxes. There's no cap on its value. That report that you mentioned, The Energy (unclear: 03:38) Solar Market, noted that the average person that went solar saved about $5,000 on the upfront cost of going solar in 2017.

Sciple: Exactly. This is a great benefit for investors and homeowners in general, to be able to put solar in place on their home, take some money off of their solar bill, and also get some tax savings. As you mentioned, it's dollar-for-dollar off of your tax bill, not like a deduction, where you're taking away from income. This is taking away from your actual final tax bill.

To take advantage of this, someone needs to be in the right situation for their home. What are the things that someone needs to look at to decide whether solar is right for you? There are a few factors we're going to talk about. The first thing is how high your electric bill is. We actually got a question from a listener, Scott, on Twitter. I'm curious to see what your thoughts on this, Brian, are. He asked, "When your electric bill is been $95-225, how does solar makes sense for you? How does that investment fit with an electric bill in that range?"

Feroldi: The answer to whether or not solar makes sense for you is always going to depend on a huge number of factors. However, if you go to the general online calculators that are available, from what I've seen, if your electric bill is about $80 or more per month on average -- obviously, that waxes and wanes based on the time of year -- then it's definitely in your interest to at least check out solar if that interests you.

But as you can probably guess, the cost of electricity varies hugely in the United States. I live in the Northeast. That is, in general, a very high electric cost part of the country. Hawaii, California are also very high-cost areas. That's very different from people that live in, say, the Midwest or the South. Their electricity prices are far lower. Where you live and how high your electric bill is are two major factors to determining if solar could be a good option for you.

Sciple: Right. There are some other, more common sense factors you have to think about for your home. No. 1: how much sunshine do you get? If you live in a part of the country where you get sun year-round, you're going to get a higher benefit out of your solar installation than someone that lives in a drearier part of the world. In addition, you have to think about the slope of your roof. The more southern-facing roof exposure you have on your home, the more likely you are to get a high benefit out of your solar installation.

Another thing you have to think about is, how are you going to finance your solar system? These things can cost upwards of $10,000. There are a few different options you can pursue. Do you want to talk about the advantages and disadvantages of those financing options, Brian?

Feroldi: There are a number of them. You can just pay straight cash for the system upfront. The big benefit of that is that you don't have any interest payments to make and you own them from day one. On the flip side, you have to have a decent amount of cash sitting around, and it can take several years for you to realize the return on your investment.

Another option is to go out and get a loan. You can get a home equity loan or a straight bank loan. Doing that, you will pay interest on it, but you can put a down payment on solar panels. Because you're paying interest, that can reduce your return on investment. But that's another option.

The final one that I'm aware of is the leasing option. This is when you put them on your house and the solar company, in many cases, actually owns the panel, and you're just leasing them from them. In those cases, you can put solar on your house for, in some cases, basically $0 upfront. However, as we mentioned at the top of the show, if you go that route, you do not qualify for the federal tax credit. The company that actually owns the panels qualifies.

There are pluses and minuses to each system. It just depends on how much money you have and how much you want to invest upfront.

Sciple: The last thing we should call out to listeners is, you have to think about your roof itself. How old is your roof? When you're installing solar panels, if you have to replace your roof after a solar panel installation, you're going to have to remove the panels and go through this whole process. It's best to install solar panels on a new roof.

Or, there are some other options out there. We got a question from our listener Eric on Twitter. He asked about the Tesla solar roof and what our thoughts are on that opportunity vs. different solar panel installations available. I know, Brian, you put solar on your roof about a year ago. Did you ever look at the Tesla solar roof opportunity? What are your thoughts on that product?

Feroldi: I think that's an extremely compelling product. I will say that when I signed my agreement for my solar panels, I think Elon Musk made the announcement about three months later. When I signed mine, that was not available. But I did watch the presentation that he made. I think that having an actual solar roof tile, it looks like a fantastic option.

However, those are so new. From what I understand, they're extremely expensive when compared to just doing a roof. It's just a technology that hasn't had enough time to scale. But my guess is, over time, the cost of doing so will come down tremendously.

Sciple: I think there's about 12 of those on the market today, according to CNBC's reporting. It's still early days for the Tesla solar roof. It's definitely an exciting product and something to keep an eye on going forward.

Brian, on the second half of the show, we're going to talk about your experience putting solar on your home and how you used that process and took advantage of these tax credits to guarantee yourself a double-digit rate of return on your solar panel investment.

Brian, we laid out in the first half of the show how you can decide whether solar is right for you. Once you've made that decision, you've realized solar works for you -- your home is set up in such a way that it's going to provide an advantage for you, you know how to qualify for the tax credit, you have the funds available to afford this installation -- what's the next steps? I know you went through this process about a year ago. What were the steps that you followed to install solar on your home? What benefits did you realize?

Feroldi: The very first thing that anybody who's interested in going solar should do is some extremely basic market research. Which solar companies exist in your local area? The number of solar shops have exploded in the U.S. There well could be five or 10 or more local installers. The very first step is to call each of them and have them come to your house. I hired a bunch of installers. They came to my house. They put this little dial on my roof to figure out exactly my sun exposure. Then they put it into their system. That's when they presented me with their options. They went through all the different pricing schemes, all the different financing options. They gave me estimates for what they thought my return on investment would be, my power generation and everything. If you're interested, shop around. There's guaranteed to be solar places by you.

Sciple: There are a few important things to call out here. First, it's very important to shop around when you're looking for these solar installers. What at first may appear to be the obvious choice, these large national installers, may not be the best value for you. The U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory has quoted that homeowners who get three or more quotes for their solar installation can save $5,000-10,000 on an installation. And, they found that large installers are often $2,000-5,000 more expensive than small solar companies. You had an experience like this, that matched that Department of Energy report, when you installed solar in your home. Is that correct, Brian?

Feroldi: Yes. I'm a Tesla shareholder. I followed SolarCity before that, which is now a part of Tesla. I'm a big fan of Elon Musk. Before I even started this process, I assumed that SolarCity, because it was the largest installer in the country, was going to give me the best deal. I contacted SolarCity. And just for comparison, I contacted a local solar installer called Newport Solar, which is just in my area of Rhode Island. I was floored when I found out that the options through my local installer, Newport Solar, were actually several thousand dollars cheaper than going through SolarCity. I went in with a preconceived notion that going with the big one, a national installer, made sense. But that wasn't my experience.

Sciple: Another thing I want to call out when it comes to this installation is that this is a time-consuming process. When you did your installation, it took you around seven months, is that correct?

Feroldi: It took me about three weeks from start to finish to sign the agreement, to get my solar measurements. But once I actually signed the deal, from that point to when the panels were actually installed on my house and working, was about six months. This is a time-consuming process.

Sciple: To call this out, too, my understanding of the way the tax credit works is that it triggers whenever the system is installed and operational. If you want to get it for the end of 2019 deadline, you need to give yourself at least a six-month lead time to go through all the installation procedures and inspections, and shop around, as we said, to get the best price. If this is something you're thinking about, you're going to want to start looking at it in the next six months, so you can get under the wire before the beginning of 2019.

Feroldi: Yeah. I would say to listeners that are interested to even get started today. So many people know that that December 31st deadline is coming up that there's going to be a huge bolus of people that are rushing to get in. You might want to even extend out your lead time to more than six months.

Sciple: Right, because part of that lag for you was that there was a backlog of people who want these things installed relative to the capabilities of the installers to meet that demand.

Feroldi: That was 100% of the reason why it took so long. They were so jammed up. Solar is absolutely exploding. If you're interested, get in line, is basically the message.

Sciple: Exactly. Another thing your installer may talk to you about whenever you reach out to them is the different state benefits available to you. There are 50 states in the country. Your mileage may vary depending on what state you're in. But these are important additional benefits you can get from your state up to and on top of that federal 30% tax credit. Do you want to talk about what state benefits you had available whenever you installed your solar panels, and how you became aware of them?

Feroldi: Sure. That's another benefit of working with a local installer. They tend to know all the state's rules and regulations inside and out. I did make a call to my local state government's energy. They actually recommended I go with a local installer, because they said they know the system so much better. SolarCity was new to my area, so they said, "We haven't even done an installation with SolarCity."

When Newport Solar came to my house, they did the math. Then they presented me with two options. The first is what's called a net metering program. That's when your utility meter spins forward when you're a user of electricity -- so, at night and when the sun's not shining. And it spins backwards during the day when the sun is out, and your electricity is low. By doing that, your electric company is billing you for the net usage that you have. If you make 1,000 kilowatt hours and you use 1,300, they're billing you for the 300 additional ones that you used.

If I went through that program, my state had a grant that was pretty sizable that they were willing to fund me. To give you some hard numbers on that, my solar panels were pretty expensive upfront. The upfront cost was $26,100. If I went through the net metering program, my state would have given me a $7,300 grant to immediately reduce that price upfront. Then, if you subtract out the 30% tax credit from that, the net cost to me upfront, after everything was said and done, to go with the net metering program, would have been about $13,000, slightly more than that. The numbers that they told me was that my annual electric bill was estimated to drop from about $1,500 dollars per year to about $300 per year. In essence, I would have saved myself about $1,200 dollars per year in electricity costs. If you divide that out by the $13,000 cost upfront, that would have been a cash-on-cash return of just over 8%, which I thought was very good.

However, in my specific state, Rhode Island, they also had something called the renewable energy growth tariff program. Under that program, the electricity that I produced wouldn't be used by my house, but instead would go out to my local grid. It would be used by my house and my neighbours. And if I did that, the electricity that my panels produced, National Grid, my electric company, would buy them from me at almost double the rate that I would buy from them on the open market. My electricity costs here are about $0.18 per kilowatt hour. National Grid was willing to buy my solar electricity at a price of $0.35 per kilowatt hour.

Under that program, the math would have been that same $26,000 upfront to get the panels installed. I would not qualify for the grant, so, taking the 30% federal tax credit into account, the net purchase price to me upfront would have been $18,000. However, because of that $0.35 kilowatt hour that I was selling at, and I was estimated to produce about 6,500 kilowatt hours per year, the value of the electricity that I would be selling back to National Grid would be about $2,200. If you divide that by the $18,000 upfront, that was a cash-on-cash return of about 12%. That number really attracted me.

Sciple: A 12% return, that's better than that the long-term return of the stock market, and it's something that's guaranteed, it's in probably your largest investment, your home.

Maybe you haven't seen this, but have you seen any response in your appraised home value or any anything like that after installing solar in your home?

Feroldi: I have not. If you go to websites like Zillow and look at your house, I don't think there's an option for me to put that in there. But they do say that putting these panels on my house would theoretically be a capital improvement of the $26,000 that I put into them. If you think about it, if I was ever to go to sell my house, I could market my house as having a negative electric bill of $60 a month. If you were a homebuyer, would you pay more for a house that had a -$60 electric bill vs. one that you'd have to pay $100 for? I know I would.

Sciple: Exactly. You get a 12% cash-on-cash return by holding your home and taking advantage of your solar panels, as well as, if for some reason you need to move, you have an increased resale value of your home. There are some other benefits you've seen, non-financial benefits outside and apart from this 12% cash-on-cash return. You've talked about it being a great conversation starter with friends and family. How have friends and family responded to your solar panels on your roof? Do people notice them when they drive by? How does it affect the curb appeal on your home? How has that shaken out since you've had your solar panels the past year?

Feroldi: This was something that we were very worried about upfront. We live in a very nice neighborhood. We were worried about the panels detracting from the curb appeal of our home. They are in the front and back of my house. When you pull up to my driveway, they are literally on the roof in front. But I have yet to have a friend that says "Hey, I've noticed you have solar panels." I always have to tell people after they come to my house. I'm like, "What do you think of my solar panels?" And they're like, "I didn't even notice them." That was a pleasant surprise. We thought that they were going to be an eyesore. In fact, most people don't even know about them. We have been talking to some of our neighbors that have been interested in going solar.

Another benefit is that it hedges me from rising energy prices. I will tell you that just this year, National Grid just pushed through a substantial increase in the price that consumers are going to have to pay for electricity by going through this program. I am kind of hedged against that. That's a big benefit to going solar, too.

Sciple: Right. You get these financial benefits without really detracting from the curb appeal of your home, while increasing the resale value of your home. It's really a lot of strong benefits in place, and really supported by these government incentives that make it even more appealing than it would be otherwise.

For our listeners, a year out from having solar installed on your home, what are your final thoughts? What would you share with listeners who were thinking about installing solar? What would be your message to them?

Feroldi: I would set their expectations upfront. They have to know upfront that it's going to be a lengthy process from start to finish. As I mentioned, for me it took about seven months. Every house is going to be different. The pitch of my roof, I will tell you, is not ideal at all. My house faces east and west. The best pitch is directly north and south. Curb appeal is not a big issue in my particular case, but it can be in others.

The other thing that I learned is that you have to take the productivity assumptions that they provide you with a grain of salt. As you can imagine, the solar companies really want you to sign the deal. They're going to be putting numbers in front of you that project optimism about sunshine and everything like that. When they gave me my deal, for example, they told me that my panels were going to produce about 6,500 kilowatt hours of electricity in the first year. My actual production was 6,100. That was about 6% less. It didn't make the math shake out that different one way or the other, but you need to know that upfront, they're going to present you with the best thing possible.

But the big takeaway is, if you're interested, get started. Make some phone calls. And definitely shop around to get the best deal.

Sciple: If our listeners have any questions, feel free to reach out to us @MFIndustryFocus on Twitter. I know, Brian, you're on Twitter. People can reach out to you there. You can also email us at industryfocus@fool.com. We'll be happy to answer any questions you have.

I enjoyed having you on the show, Brian! Looking forward to doing it again sometime!

Feroldi: Sounds great, Nick! Thanks for having me here!

Sciple: Enjoyed it! As always, people on the program may own companies discussed on the show, and The Motley Fool may have formal recommendations for or against any stocks mentioned, so don't buy or sell anything based solely on what you hear. Thanks to Austin Morgan for his work behind the glass. For Brian Feroldi, I'm Nick Sciple. Thanks for listening and Fool on!What happened

Aphria (NASDAQ:APHA) stock crashed on Monday, with shares plunging 19.5% as of 11:41 a.m. EST after falling as much as 29% earlier in the day. This huge drop came after hedge fund manager Gabriel Grego announced a short position in Aphria and referred to the Canadian marijuana producer as "a black hole" for investors' money.

Grego's Quintessential Capital Management and forensic analysis firm Hindenburg Research jointly issued a report that expressed their belief that Aphria "is primarily a scheme to funnel funds from retail shareholders into insiders' pockets." This report stated that Aphria insiders bought positions in "virtually worthless corporate entities overseas through shell companies," then led Aphria to buy these overseas companies at unjustifiably high prices.

So what

As of the time of this writing, Aphria had not responded publicly to the allegations made by Grego. It's always good to hear both sides of a story before reaching any conclusions. However, the report issued by Quintessential Capital Management and Hindenburg Research is concerning.

One aspect of the report is easy to confirm: Aphria indeed acquired three Latin American companies recently in whole or in part. In September, Aphria announced the closing of a transaction with Scythian Biosciences that gave Aphria a 90% stake in Colombia-based Colcanna, 100% ownership of Argentina-based ABP, and a 49% stake in Jamaica-based Marigold. It's also true that Aphria Chairman and CEO Vic Neufeld was once chairman of Scythian Biosciences.

The report also seems to make a pretty good case that Aphria overpaid for these acquisitions. What remains only conjecture at this point, however, is whether there were any company insiders who benefited from the deals.

Controversy arose earlier this year with Aphria's acquisition of Nuuvera when it was revealed that Aphria executives disclosed stakes in Nuuvera just before the closing of the deal. Quintessential Capital Management and Hindenburg Research suspect -- but didn't prove -- that Aphria insiders also owned positions in the Latin American companies recently acquired by Aphria.

Now what

This could play out in a couple of ways. The issue could prove to be much ado about nothing, or it could become an even greater scandal for Aphria.

Another Canadian marijuana producer, Cronos Group, came under fire from a noted short-seller in August. But Cronos bounced back from the initial sell-off before giving up its gains in the bigger pullback for marijuana stocks in October. The allegations from the short-seller had a short shelf life. That could be the case with Aphria as well.

In some ways, though, the latest allegations against Aphria are more troubling than the ones made against Cronos. Aphria has a lot of promise, but until all the facts come out, it's probably best to watch this marijuana stock from the sidelines.What happened

The ongoing scandal of an airplane crash.

The potential loss of a $22 billion order.

Production delays that could cause an earnings miss.

There are a lot of reasons why investors might be selling Boeing (NYSE:BA) stock today. Yes, despite all the negatives, shares of the aerospace giant are up this morning -- up as much as 6% in early trading, and still up a healthy 3.8% as of 11:20 a.m. EST.

So what

A little over a month ago, a Boeing-built 737 MAX8 airliner operated by Indonesia's Lion Air as Flight 610 plunged into the ocean, killing all aboard. Ever since, there have been accusations thrown back and forth, with Boeing hinting it thinks poor maintenance practices may be to blame for the crash and Lion Air pointing the finger at "design changes" and "anti-stall" features built into the plane's Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS).

This morning, Lion Air co-founder Rusdi Kirana threatened to cancel the remainder of his company's $22 billion, 190-airplane order from Boeing if it doesn't accept responsibility for the crash and take measures to improve its plane design to ensure there is no repeat of the disaster.

At the same time, a report out of investment bank R.W. Baird raises another potential risk for Boeing shareholders: Airplane deliveries didn't accelerate as much as anticipated in November, and Boeing will need to build and deliver planes at a record pace in December if it hopes to hit guidance for 2018 deliveries.

Despite all this, news that U.S. President Trump and China President Xi Jinping have called a 90-day truce in their trade war and are working to resolve disagreements that could roll back a tide of tit-for-tat tariffs imposed on each other's goods has investors thinking: This could be good news for a company that sells multimillion-dollar airplanes in the Chinese market.

Now what

Will the truce hold? Will investors' enthusiasm for owning Boeing stock hold? That probably depends on whether the U.S. and China can work out a trade deal before March 1, 2019. The closer we get to that date without a deal being reached, the more Boeing stock is likely to get dinged by less hopeful news.iStock/Thinkstock(OROVILLE, Calif.) -- Students displaced by the Camp Fire in Paradise, California, are returning to school for the first time since the deadly fire leveled most of their town.



Paradise Elementary students will be attending classes today in Oroville, about 20 miles south of Paradise, where nearly 30,000 residents were forced to relocate after the wildfire.



Students at the town's five other schools also will be bused to nearby towns for classes, the Paradise Unified School District said in a statement. Nearly all the necessary school supplies, including backpacks, have been donated.



"Through everything that we have all been through, the one thing we wanted to make sure we could see through is that our students be reunited with their PUSD teachers," the district's statement said. "We assure you that, even through our own trauma, we have been working to keep this promise to you.



"We have done the best we can with what we have to work with at this time, without compromising a safe and acceptable learning environment."



School officials expect attendance levels to come in around 50 percent due to the amount of families displaced by the Camp Fire, considered the most destructive fire in state history. The fire burned for 18 days, destroyed thousands of homes and structures, and killed at least 85 people before it was contained Nov. 25.



School officials will have "experts in trauma and social emotional support" for students and staff at each school.



"Once the kids are back in school and have their schedule going, similar to what it was before, it will be nice to try to get our life back to somewhat normal," Lana Bunch, a parent who lost her home in Paradise, told ABC affiliate KGO.



Copyright  2018, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.U.S. State Department said on Monday that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo would participate in NATO foreign ministers' meetings in Brussels during Dec. 3-5.



According to a statement issued by State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert, Pompeo would participate in this semi-annual meeting to review progress made in implementing the agenda agreed by NATO heads of state and government at the Brussels Summit in July.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo [Photo: IC]

"Pompeo would renew our call that Allies shoulder a fair share of the burden of responsibility to protect against common threats," said the statement.

"This means living up to the pledge that all Allies made in 2014 and reaffirmed at the 2018 Brussels Summit to spend 2 percent of their GDP on defense by 2024 and to invest 20 percent of that in major equipment," it added.

Transatlantic security issues would also be discussed in this meeting, as well as NATO operations and partnerships, including NATO's deepening relationship with Georgia and Ukraine, according to the statement.

The statement noted that Pompeo would also meet with Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel to discuss how to cooperate on areas of mutual concern.

The U.S. administration has been criticizing European nations for failing to meet the official annual defense spending target of 2 percent of GDP set by NATO.

French President Emmanuel Macron said last month that he wanted "a real European army" to protect the Europeans from the United States and other nations, which U.S. President Donald Trump described as "very insulting."

"But perhaps Europe should first pay its fair share of NATO, which the U.S. subsidizes greatly!" Trump responded on his Twitter.

According to NATO figures, only five of 29 members met their defense spending targets this year -- Estonia, Greece, Latvia, Britain and the United States.Oil prices soared by around 5% on Monday after the United States and China agreed to a 90-day truce in their trade war, and ahead of a meeting this week by producer club OPEC that is expected to result in a supply cut.

Brent crude oil futures were up $2.89 per barrel (4.95) at $62.35 a barrel, Reuters reported.

WTI crude futures were at $53.41 per barrel at 0622 GMT, up $2.48 per barrel (4.9%) from their last close.

U.S. crude prices were further pushed up by an announcement from Canada that Alberta province will force producers to cut output by 8.7%, or 325,000 barrels per day (bpd), to deal with a pipeline bottleneck that has led to crude building up in storage. Most of Alberta's oil is exported to the United States.

China and the United States agreed during a weekend meeting in Argentina of the G20 leading economies not to impose additional trade tariffs for at least 90 days while the pair hold talks to resolve existing disputes.'Back to School' Specials Announced at All Experimac Stores

Certified, Pre-owned Devices on Sale Now for a Limited Time Only

SYDNEY - Nov. 30, 2018 // PRNewswire // - Back to school specials, normally reserved for the summertime ritual in January, has taken a new twist in the lead up to Christmas. Experimac, home to a great range of fully certified pre-owned, quality Apple products and devices, is offering its own "Back to School" version with specials on a limited time inventory.

"Now is the time to purchase a great gift at an affordable price for your son or daughter before school starts in January/February," said Michael Cooke, Brand Director. "Our 'Back to School' special is a great way to beat the annual rush, so we encourage parents to visit the nearest Experimac store as soon as possible and take advantage of our great deals."

Experimac has set great cost-cutting prices on pre-owned devices ranging from the MacBook Pro with Retina, iPad Air, iPhone7 and the Apple Watch to the iPhone XS Max, iPad Air 2, MacBook Air and more. All devices carry in-store warranties.

A member of the United Franchise Group, Experimac saves customers money not only during the Christmas season, but also throughout the entire year with its extraordinary pricing. "Our professionals can restore optimal performance on any Apple device - without incurring the high cost of purchasing a new device," Cooke said. "All products we sell are thoroughly cleaned, inspected and brought up to the brand's highest standards prior to going on the shelf."

In addition, Experimac offers repair and upgrade services to fix cracked phone screens, recover data, perform tune-ups, remove viruses, and improve a device's overall performance - all at a fair price.

School holidays are right around the corner, but there is no reason to wait. "Stop by the nearest Experimac store today because our inventories will go quickly," added Cooke. "Beat the rush, save money, and get your child a great gift for the Christmas and school!"

The use of the Apple Inc. logo or trademark does not represent an endorsement by Apple Inc. of Experimac or United Franchise Group. Apple, Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Store are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Offers may vary by location. Please contact your local Experimac store for details.

About Experimac

Experimac is a unique franchising concept that specialises in the sale of certified pre-owned Apple products. Your Local Experimac can also repair, upgrade or buy your current device, and no appointment is ever necessary. The brand offers a one-year guarantee, which takes the risk out of buying pre-owned. Experimac was founded by Jim Muir in 2009, and began franchising as one of United Franchise Group's affiliated companies and brands in 2014. Today, there are more than 100 locations across the globe; Experimac stores can be found in Australia, Mexico, Chile, South Africa, France, Canada, Uruguay and Ireland. The brand has seen tremendous growth with no sign of slowing down.

About United Franchise Group

Led by CEO Ray Titus, United Franchise Group is home to a variety of internationally recognized brands including Signarama, Fully Promoted, Experimac, Jon Smith Subs, Venture X, SuperGreen Solutions, Transworld Business Advisors, Accurate Franchising, and The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill. With more than three decades in the franchising industry, and 1,600 franchisees in 80 countries throughout the world, United Franchise Group offers unprecedented leadership and solid business opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Media Contact:

Barbara Rodriguez

305-631-2283 ext. 1009

Barbara@inklinkmarketing.com

SOURCE Experimac

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DisqusHyatt Place Riyadh Al Sulaimania Officially Opens Its Doors

New property marks the entry of Hyatts select service brand, Hyatt Place, into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

December 03, 2018 // Franchising.com // CHICAGO - Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced the opening of Hyatt Place Riyadh Al Sulaimania, marking the introduction of the Hyatt Place brand to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Developed by Saudi Marhaba Hospitality & Tourism Company, Hyatt Place Riyadh Al Sulaimania joins Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya, Park Hyatt Jeddah and Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah, further strengthening Hyatts portfolio of brands in Saudi Arabia and overall brand footprint in the Middle East. Later this year, Hyatt House Jeddah Sari Street is expected to open, marking the introduction of Hyatts extended stay brand, Hyatt House, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Hyatt Place brand is rooted in the provision of stylish, comfortable and seamless experiences for guests, accommodating lifestyles and familiar routines with a promise of purposeful service and an uncomplicated stay. Centrally located in the upscale metropolitan neighbourhood of Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, Hyatt Place Riyadh Al Sulaimania provides the perfect location for casual leisure and business travellers and is close to many local attractions, including Thalya Street and Olaya business district.

We are excited to introduce our select services portfolio to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with the opening of the first Hyatt Place hotel, said General Manager Adnan Haider. This hotel strengthens Hyatts position in the region as a brand leader and showcases a different type of guest and hotel experience, one centred around casual hospitality and purposeful service in a smartly-designed environment. We are confident that both business and leisure travellers will enjoy the modern design, easy accessibility and pioneering service concepts offered at Hyatt Place Riyadh Al Sulaimania.

Hyatt Place Riyadh Al Sulaimania offers:

88 spacious guestrooms, including 10 suites, fit with a Cozy Corner and sofa sleeper, as well as luxury bath amenities from KenetMD and high-tech amenities such as 49-inch flat swiveling screen smart IPTV to keep guests charged and connected at all times

Free WiFi and remote printing available throughout the hotel

Gallery Kitchen Breakfast serving up freshly prepared breakfast items

24/7 Gallery Menu & Market offering perfectly packed grab-and-go items, ranging from freshly prepared snacks and sandwiches to pastries and sweets

Coffee to Beverages Bar serving a range of beverages at all times

Meetings Spaces offer more than 2,600 square feet (242 square meters) across three meeting rooms and pre-function areas, each featuring state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, built-in LCD projectors and screens and 70-inch TVs

24-hour Gym with cardio equipment and free ear buds

Outdoor, rooftop swimming pool, jacuzzi and terrace

Free underground parking is available

For more information about the hotel, please visit riyadhsulaimania.place.hyatt.com/.

The term Hyatt is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

About Hyatt Place

Hyatt Place hotels combine style, innovation and 24/7 convenience to create a seamless stay with modern comforts. There are more than 320 Hyatt Place locations in Armenia, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Costa Rica, Germany, Honduras, India, Mexico, Morocco, Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico, Thailand, The Netherlands, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and the United States. For more information, please visit hyattplace.com. Join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram, and tag photos with #HyattPlace and #WhySettle.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 14 premier brands. As of September 30, 2018, the Company's portfolio included more than 750 properties in more than 55 countries across six continents. The Company's purpose to care for people so they can be their best informs its business decisions and growth strategy and is intended to attract and retain top colleagues, build relationships with guests and create value for shareholders. The Company's subsidiaries develop, own, operate, manage, franchise, license or provide services to hotels, resorts, branded residences, vacation ownership properties, and fitness and spa locations, including under the Park Hyatt, Miraval, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Hyatt, Andaz, Hyatt Centric, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, Hyatt Place, Hyatt House, Hyatt Ziva, Hyatt Zilara, Hyatt Residence Club and Exhale brand names. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Forward-Looking Statements in this press release, which are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Our actual results, performance or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as may, could, expect, intend, plan, seek, anticipate, believe, estimate, predict, potential, continue, likely, will, would and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by us and our management, are inherently uncertain. Factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from current expectations include, among others, the rate and pace of economic recovery following economic downturns; levels of spending in business and leisure segments as well as consumer confidence; declines in occupancy and average daily rate; the financial condition of, and our relationships with, third-party property owners, franchisees and hospitality venture partners; the possible inability of third-party owners, franchisees or development partners to access the capital necessary to fund current operations or implement our plans for growth; risks associated with potential acquisitions and dispositions and the introduction of new brand concepts; failure to successfully complete proposed transactions (including the failure to satisfy closing conditions or obtain required approvals); changes in the competitive environment in our industry, including as a result of industry consolidation, and the markets where we operate; general volatility of the capital markets and our ability to access such markets; and other risks discussed in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K, which filings are available from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These factors are not necessarily all of the important factors that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by any of our forward-looking statements. We caution you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are made only as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligation to update publicly any of these forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, new information or future events, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law. If we update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

Media Contacts:

Sian Rylander

Hyatt

+1 312 780 5797

sian.rylander@hyatt.com

Noha Belhaj

Hyatt - Middle East and North Africa

+971 56 818 50 26

noha.belhaj@hyatt.com

SOURCE Hyatt Hotels Corporation

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DisqusJersey Mike's Subs Opens First Peru Location

December 03, 2018 // Franchising.com // PERU, Ill. - Jersey Mikes Subs, known for its fresh sliced/fresh grilled subs, opened tomorrow in Peru on November 28. Franchise owner Mac Shimmon held a grand opening and free sub fundraiser from Wednesday, November 28 to Sunday, December 2 to support Cops 4 Cancer and LaSalle-Peru Township High School.

The new restaurant, located at 4341 Venture Drive, circulated thousands of coupons throughout the community offering a free regular sub for a minimum $2 contribution Cops 4 Cancer and LaSalle-Peru Township High School.

Shimmon is an exemplary Jersey Mikes franchise owner who shares the companys commitment to quality products and exceptional customer service, and who is dedicated to giving back to the local community. Since 2010, Jersey Mikes locations throughout the country have raised more than $34 million for worthy local charities and have distributed more than 2 million free sub sandwiches to help numerous causes. This year, the companys 8th Annual Jersey Mikes Month of Giving in March raised over $6 million for more than 170 charities throughout the country.

About Jersey Mikes

Started in 1956, Jersey Mikes now has 1,500 restaurants open and under development nationwide. Jersey Mikes was named the countrys fastest-growing Limited Service Chain and fastest-growing sandwich chain in the 2018 Nations Restaurant News Top 100.

The growth is fueled by passionate Jersey Mikes fans who crave their subs made Mikes Way with the freshest vegetables - onions, lettuce and tomatoes - topped off with an exquisite zing of the juice - red wine vinegar and olive oil blended to perfection. Jersey Mikes premium meats and cheeses are sliced on the spot, piled high on in-store baked bread and served up with a helping of neighborly banter from a dedicated and high-energy team.

Jersey Mikes is always looking for outstanding candidates to join its winning team. Dedicated to a culture of giving, the team is a perfect blend of talent, trust, teamwork, and a shared vision. For more information and to learn about Jersey Mikes team members who moved from behind the counter to franchise owner, please visit: www.jerseymikes.com/careers.

The restaurants hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week. You can contact this location directly at (779) 201-5516.

SOURCE Jersey Mikes

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DisqusWhen a finished part rolls off the production line, this is one of the first questions always asked: Does this component have the properties I want? Often, even the tiniest of variations in the production environment are enough to alter a parts material properties  and throw its functionality into question. Manufacturers avoid this by meticulously inspecting samples throughout the production process. Breaking down the samples into their composite parts and measuring them separately is an extremely time-consuming process. The outcome of the sample testing process branches out into an array of different subsets, each with their own specific measurement results, explains Dr. Christoph Schweizer, Head of the Assessment of Materials, Lifetime Concepts business unit at the Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM in Freiburg. While experts may be able to keep an overview of the complex interrelationships in their heads, until now there has been no way to take the diversity of resulting data and portray it in a coherent digital format.

A digital twin for each material

Now, for the first time, researchers at the Fraunhofer IWM have developed a proof of concept demonstrating that it is possible to digitally represent many such material processing cycles with a materials data space for test specimens produced using additive manufacturing. The data space concept allows us to integrate any type of material information into a digital network  a really valuable tool, especially in the context of Industrie 4.0, says Schweizer. We want to use the materials data space to automatically generate a digital twin of each material that will mirror the current state of the physical object under examination.

The advantage of the materials data space is that it provides an overview of all relevant parameters at a glance, whereas formerly data on different material parameters was scattered among numerous data repositories in many different formats. But the real promise lies further ahead. In the years to come, the materials data space has the potential to become the production command center. Whenever component quality isnt up to the expected standard, you can compare it with information on previous components stored in the materials data space to determine whether the present component can in fact be used or whether it must be rejected, says Schweizer. In the future, these results could be automatically integrated into industrial decision-making processes: whenever component quality dips below the required standard, production automatically comes to a halt.

An ontology-based materials framework

Creating the data space and managing the diversity of materials data  calls for a corresponding information model. In this case, the model reflects the natural material world, in which material states and properties are assigned to defined categories, explains Dr. Adham Hashibon, researcher in manufacturing processes at the Fraunhofer IWM. Researchers draw on an ontology-based framework of fixed logic and hierarchy. The best way of thinking about it is in terms of a social network, like Facebook. Each person on Facebook is a node in the network. And in turn, these nodes have their own associations, for instance, taste in music. What we do is to create semantic relationships between the individual material objects and their associated processing steps, says Hashibon. Then there are also interrelationships among these communities. What would be a friendship on Facebook is represented in the materials data space by details on the chronological sequence of production or work steps, for instance leaving the additive manufacturing process or this laser is part of the 3D printing process.

The new demonstrator for additively manufactured metal components (mentioned earlier) has the capacity to generate samples, characterize the materials they contain, conduct subsequent data analysis and determine material properties. Thanks to the logic underpinning the model, users can make extremely complex queries of the data space that simply wouldnt be possible with the same degree of flexibility in the case of a conventional database. Through its pioneering work on digitalized data spaces, the Fraunhofer IWM is making a significant contribution to European initiatives on materials modeling as part of the European Materials Modelling Council, as well as to the Digitalization Strategy of the German state of Baden-Wurttemberg. In the medium term, the researchers intend to convert all data administration functions used by the Fraunhofer IWM to the data space model. They are currently looking for collaboration partners and pilot users for this and other applications, who will then share the chance to shape innovative new materials developments.

Georgia's opposition coalition 'Strength in Unity' is protesting the results of the presidential election, which resulted in the victory of pro-government candidate Salome Zurabishvili on Rustaveli Avenue.

"These have not been elections. This was a criminal special operation against the Georgian people," Grigol Vashadze told several thousands of supporters at the demonstration.

He added that the opposition is preparing a suit with its lawyers to demand the cancellation of the presidential elections results in the court, Agenda.ge reported.

The Georgian Dream ruling party endorsed presidential candidate Salome Zurabishvili received 59.52% of votes (1,147,627 votes), while candidate from the United National Movement Grigol Vashadze - 40.48% of votes (780,633).Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov commented on Russian President Vladimir Putin's hearty handshake with Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at the G20 summit in Argentina.

"These are good personal relations," Peskov said. According to him, these good relations are a ground for "rather effective and mutually beneficial cooperation."

"We seek to continue fostering bilateral Russian-Saudi relations," TASS cited the spokesman as saying.

"President Putin and the Crown Prince held a rather fruitful and substantive discussion on the sidelines of the summit." Peskov recalled that at the talks the sides discussed cooperation in the framework of OPEC plus.Russian President Vladimir Putin has no plans to hold talks with Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, commenting on the possibility of telephone conversation between Putin and Poroshenko.

"I can only confirm to you that there really hasnt been a telephone conversation between Putin and Poroshenko so far after the incident, and at the moment, as far as I know, in the coming days, such a conversation is not planned," Peskov said.

Poroshenkos statement about Russia allegedly planning to build a "corridor" from Donbass to Crimea is absurd, it is just another attempt to cause tensions, Peskov noted, commenting on the Ukrainian leaders words that Moscow is allegedly planning to seize Mariupol and Berdyansk.

"This statement is absolutely absurd, another attempt to somehow spark tensions. Unfortunately, it is clear that such attempts are likely to continue as the presidential election in Ukraine is nearing," the Kremlin spokesman said, pointing out that "Russia has never seized anything, or laid any corridors."

"Thats why this is an absolutely ungrounded statement," TASS cited Peskov as saying.

Commenting on Ukrainian Infrastructure Minister Yuriy Lavrenyuk's statement that Russia was obstructing the passage of Ukrainian ships in the Kerch Strait, Peskov stressed that any claims that shipping traffic has been restricted in the Kerch Strait are untrue.

"They [the Ukrainian minister's statements] are untrue," Peskov noted. "There is a certain procedure for technical notification of the Kerch port authority, so there are no restrictions there. Quite intensive international navigation is underway there," he said.

However, Peskov said navigation was sometimes suspended to ensure the safety of sea navigation with account for the weather conditions, which, he said, was common international practice.

Political scientist Sergei Slobodchuk, speaking with the correspondent of Vestnik Kavkaza, noted that Petro Poroshenko, by demanding direct talks with Vladimir Putin, seeks to present himself as the main communicator between Ukraine and Russia. "He wants the Russian leadership to hear his version of events, otherwise there is a possibility that the current situation will be resolved between Russia and the United States without Ukraines participation. At the same time, in cases when Poroshenko does not manage to agree, he has a proven negotiator Viktor Medvedchuk who can call Putin. I think it will eventually happen in a few days, as there is a risk that Ukraine will lose the initiative in the discussion about the fate of sea workers, and international legal assessment of the situation will be transferred to European structures," he expects.

"Ukraine is not represented in the Volker-Surkov talks, so Poroshenko is trying to call the Kremlin to dialogue so that Ukraine is perceived as a participant in the negotiation process. Kurt Volker, who will speak on behalf of Ukraine, does not represent Ukrainian interests, he represents the interests of the United States. A clear arms lobby has emerged now in the U.S., within which representatives of both parties demand that Trump supply Ukraine naval boats and various types of weapons, and at negotiations with Russia, American politicians will lobb interests of their military-industrial complex and arms sales. The case of the sailors and Ukraine's interests will then recede into the background. Therefore, Poroshenko is trying to cut into it," Sergei Slobodchuk said.Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov highlighted that Saudi Arabia is ready to take part in an investigation into the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

"We seek to continue fostering bilateral Russian-Saudi relations," the spokesman said. "President Putin and the Crown Prince held a rather fruitful and substantive discussion on the sidelines of the summit," TASS cited him as saying.

Peskov recalled that at the talks the sides discussed not only the Russian-Saudi bilateral relations but the two countries' cooperation within the OPEC.

Khashoggi was funding an "electronic army" to fight with Saudi state propaganda, according to his private Whatsapp messages published by CNN International.

Khashoggi went missing on October 2 after entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. The Saudi Prosecutor General's Office has since concluded that he was killed inside the consulate by lethal injection before his body was dismembered and removed from the building.Israel'sPrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels later on Monday, the Israeli prime ministers office said in a statement.

According to the statement, the meeting was arranged last week and that "developments in the region" would be discussed, although it did not provide details.

Netanyahu will be accompanied by the head of the Mossad spy agency, the Israeli national security adviser and his military attache, Reuters reported.

Pompeo is an outspoken critic of Irans nuclear programme and condemned on Saturday the latest missile test by Tehran.The issue of new CSTO Secretary General will not be discussed at the upcoming Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) summit in Saint Petersburg on December 6, Armenias acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said.

"Since we again dont have consensus now [on this matter], there is no sense in repeating [the CSTO leaders meeting in] Astana [on November 8], and its not constructive.

The arrangement is that we continue the working discussions until reaching any consensus," News.am cited the PM as saying.

On November 2, Armenian authorities recalled the countrys representative Yuri Khachaturov from the office of CSTO Secretary General. Khachaturov has been charged in Armenia within the framework of the criminal case into the tragic events that transpired in capital city Yerevan on March 1-2, 2008.Russian President Vladimir Putin will not deliver his Address to the Federal Assembly before the end of the year, he will do it in 2019, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

"There wont be the Address this year, it will take place next year," TASS cited him as saying. The spokesman added that it was premature to discuss the concrete timeframe.

In November, Peskov said that Putin could deliver his State of the Nation Address to the Federal Assembly before the end of the year, saying however, that most likely this will happen in 2019.Samsung Galaxy M10, Galaxy M20 mass production likely debuts in India News oi-Abhinaya Prabhu Samsung is likely prepping two devices in the new Galaxy M series.

Recently, we have been coming across reports that Samsung is prepping to revamp its affordable smartphone portfolio. There are claims that the company is working on a new Galaxy M lineup of affordable devices. Adding to the speculations, the Galaxy M devices were spotted on the benchmark services such as AnTuTu and Geekbench as well.

Now, a report by 91mobiles states that the mass production of the alleged Galaxy M10 and Galaxy M20 smartphones have debuted in India. As per the report, the production debuted in the company's factory in Noida. Though there isn't any word regarding when these upcoming Samsung smartphones can be expected, it is likely that the devices will be launched in 2019.

Galaxy M series will have notch display

Furthermore, the report goes on stating that these new Galaxy M smartphones will feature a notch display. However, we are yet to see if these smartphones will have a wide notch like the other most of recent offerings or the new designs showcased by Samsung last month. If you don't remember, at the Samsung Developer's Conference, the company showcased new notch designs called Infinity U, Infinity V and Infinity O.

Samsung Galaxy M rumors

Going by the existing reports, the rumored Galaxy M series is likely to comprise the Galaxy M10, Galaxy M20 and Galaxy M30 devices. The Galaxy M10 and M20 are likely to have model numbers SM-M105F and SM-M205F respectively. The leaked benchmark reports suggested that the M10 will be an entry-level offering. On the other hand, the M20 is rumored to arrive with similar specifications except for a few changes.

It is clear that Samsung has decided to come up with these new affordable devices in order to pose a tough challenge to the other bestselling devices in the category. Especially, the entry-level and mid-range offerings from Xiaomi, Honor and other Chinese brands have grabbed the popularity that Samsung owned in this segment. Eventually, the South Korean company has to come up with new strategies and devices to regain the lost foothold.

Best Mobiles in India

Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow NotificationsThe manned Soyuz MS-11 spacecraft with three crewmembers of the new expedition to the International Space Station (ISS) has entered the near-Earth orbit and started its autonomous flight to the orbital outpost, Russias State Space Corporation Roscosmos said.

"The spacecraft separated from the third stage of the Soyuz-FG carrier rocket in a normal mode and at the designated time," TASS cited Roscosmos as saying.

The Soyuz-FG carrier rocket with the manned Soyuz MS-11 spacecraft blasted off from the first launch site of the Baikonur Cosmodrome at 14:31 Moscow time.

The new expedition comprises Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, NASA astronaut Anne McClain and astronaut of the Canadian Space Agency David Saint-Jacques. They will join three crew already on board  Serena Aunon-Chancellor of the U.S., Germanys Alexander Gerst, and Russias Sergey Prokopyev. The new crew will stay in orbit for 194 days. The spacecraft is due to dock with the International Space Station today at 20:36 Moscow time.

This launch was originally scheduled to take place on December 20, but Russia was forced to push it forward after their previous attempt at a crew launch failed on October 11.

NASA's chief Jim Bridenstine expressed gratitude to head of Roscosmos Dmitry Rogozin. "The #Exp58 crew is safely in orbit! Im grateful to Director General Dmitry Rogozin and the entire @NASA and @roscosmos teams for their dedication to making this launch a success. Ad Astra!" Bridenstine wrote on his Twitter page.Russian TV Crew's 'Suspicious Behavior' Triggers Military Alert, Public Warning In Britain

By RFE/RL December 02, 2018

British Defense Secretary Gavin Williamson has called on the public to report suspicious activity near army sites after a Russian TV crew prompted an alert at a highly sensitive military facility, the Daily Mail newspaper reports.

The December 2 report said the warning was issued after Timur Siraziev of state-controlled Channel One was seen filming close to the barbed wire perimeter fence of the 77th Brigade in Hermitage, Berkshire.

The TV reporter denied trying to infiltrate the base, which works in electronic and psychological warfare.

The incident comes at a time of heightened tensions between the West and Russia over issues including Moscow's aggression in Ukraine, its alleged election meddling in the United States and Europe, massive international cyberattacks, and the poisoning of a Russian double agent and his daughter in Britain.

Security cameras at the 77th Brigade's base recorded Siraziev, Channel One's London-based bureau chief, making repeated passes of the facility on November 21 as a cameraman filmed from the passenger seat of his car, according to The Mail.

A report later broadcast by Channel One also showed Siraziev speaking on camera as he walks close to an entrance to the base.

The Mail reported that intelligence chiefs launched an investigation into the incident, while military chiefs issued a security warning to commanders at all of Britain's military facilities.

"We take the security of our bases and personnel incredibly seriously," Williamson was quoted as saying .

"If a member of the public sees anyone acting suspiciously in or around a military base it should be reported to the police as a matter of urgency," the defense secretary added.

Siraziev told the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti that the TV crew was operating openly on public land and "did not try to penetrate the base."

"I came to the checkpoint, introduced myself, that I was Timur Siraziev, a journalist for Channel One, said that we wanted to talk," he said.

Williamson in October accused Russia of acting like a "pariah state," whose "reckless and indiscriminate" attacks had left it isolated in the international community.

In an interview last month, the head of the British Army, General Mark Carleton-Smith, described Russia as a "far greater threat" to Britain's national security than Islamic terrorist groups such as the Islamic State.

Russia has repeatedly denied evidence that its agents were behind the nerve-agent attack on Sergei Skripal and his daughter, Yulia, in the English city of Salisbury in March.

The Skripals survived the poisoning, which used a Soviet-made military nerve agent known as Novichok.

Two other British citizens were exposed to the nerve agent in June, apparently by accident; one of them, Dawn Sturgess, died.

With reporting by the Daily Mail and the BBC

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russian-tv- crew-s-suspicious-behavior-triggers-military-alert- public-warning-in-britain/29633449.html

Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Yemeni drone units target Saudi aggressors' positions

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Dec 2, IRNA -- Yemeni artillery and drone units targeted the positions of Saudi aggressors and mercenaries.

According to Al-masira on Sunday night, the positions of the aggressors and Saudi mercenaries on the western Yemeni coast were targeted by the attacks of Yemeni army and popular committees.

Yemeni artillery and drone units attacked the positions of the aggressors and Saudi - American mercenaries on the West coast front last month.

The self-proclaimed Arab coalition, led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, launched massive attacks to occupy the port of Al-Hudaydah in west of Yemen since June, despite international warnings about the deterioration of the human conditions.

9455**2050

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Taliban rejects US claims on receiving arms from Iran

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Dec 2, IRNA -- Taliban in a statement refuted claims made by the US regarding receiving weapons from Iran for performing military operations in Afghanistan.

According to Afghan news agency, Taliban spokesman Qari Mohammad Yousef Ahmadi rejected US allegations, saying they have received no arms from Iran.

Taliban has its arms from its previous battles, he said, adding that they have various arsenals in different parts of Afghanistan.

He went on to say that the US is aimed at distracting the public opinion and the international community regarding its defeat in Afghanistan war.

Earlier, Brian Hook, Senior Policy Advisor to the Secretary of State and Special Representative for Iran showing parts of some weapons claimed that Iranian arms are being used by Taliban.

Meanwhile, Iranian diplomatic mission in Afghanistan in a statement described the US act as aiming to promote Iranophobia in Afghanistan.

9376**2050

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57 Taliban members killed in Afghanistan

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Kabul, Dec 2, IRNA -- Afghanistan Defense Ministry in a statement on Saturday announced that 57 members of Taliban terrorist group have been killed and 13 more injured over the past 24 hours.

According to Afghan Defense Ministry, Taliban forces were killed or injured in nine ground attacks and 20 air strikes in 14 provinces.

The highest number of terrorists killed was in Ghazni, Helmand and Nangarhar Provinces, with 19, 12 and six respectively, the statement said.

Afghan forces also confiscated some weapons and ammunitions, it added.

9376**2044

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Top Taliban commander killed in airstrike in southern Afghanistan

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 06:22PM

A senior Taliban commander and dozens of his comrades have been killed during a joint operation by Afghan and US Special Forces in southern Afghanistan, officials and Taliban members say.

Helmand provincial governor Mohammad Yasin Khan said Sunday that Abdul Manan was killed along with 29 others in an airstrike while he was meeting local commanders and militants in Nawzad district on Saturday.

The death of Mullah Manan, who was in charge of Helmand province for the insurgent group, was also confirmed by Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid. Manan commanded Taliban militants as they steadily increased their control over Helmand in recent years.

A senior security official in Kabul described Manan's death a serious blow to the insurgent group. "He was the most senior Taliban commander in the south and his death will have an overall impact on security."

Col Dave Butler, spokesman for US Forces in Afghanistan, said in a statement that Afghan forces had gone on the offensive with US support, notably through precision airstrikes to push the Taliban to accept peace talks.

"They're going to have trouble intensifying the fight when their fighters and leaders are under constant assault. Peace talks are the only solution," Butler said.

The Kabul government has stepped up efforts to convince the Taliban to end the 17-year militancy amid Washington's failures on the battleground.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Wednesday announced the formation of a team for prospective peace talks with the Taliban. At an international conference on Afghanistan in Geneva, Ghani said the 12-person negotiating team includes both men and women and will be led by Abdul Salam Rahimi, his chief of staff.

Contacts have already started between US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Taliban representatives with both sides aiming to build a favorable position in advance of any talks.

At the request of the US, a Taliban office was established in Doha in 2013 to facilitate peace talks. In recent months, Taliban representatives and Khalilzad have discussed the Taliban's conditions to end the war in Afghanistan.

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Microsoft to give Pentagon access to 'best technology'

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 03:15PM

US software giant Microsoft has pledged to give the Pentagon access to its "best technology" despite criticism from employees, breaking with other tech companies that are reconsidering military companies after facing internal backlash.

Brad Smith, Microsoft's president and chief legal officer, said Saturday that the corporation was "going to provide the US Defense Department with access to the best technology ... all the technology we create. Full stop."

Speaking during a panel at the Reagan National Defense Forum at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, Smith acknowledged that there was "some angst" among the company's workforce about involvement in military contracts but Microsoft was not going to change course.

That's opposite to what Google did in June after facing pressure from thousands of employees about involvement in the Pentagon's global drone program.

The search engine company refused to review a contract that allowed the military to use Google's artificial intelligence tools to analyze drone footage.

Smith, however, said it was possible to cooperate with the military and quell such concerns at the same time.

"We want Silicon Valley to know just how ethical and honorable a tradition the military has," he said, noting that artificial intelligence and autonomous systems were going to have broad implications in all fields including the military.

He said the company remains open to hearing employee opinions and would "engage to address the ethical issues that new technology is creating."

Smith said he had already received feedback from workers about the issue, including an email from an employee who grew up in Belgrade, Serbia -- which was bombed by NATO forces in 1999.

The employee told Smith that he needed to think through Microsoft's reasoning for accepting military contracts. Smith refused to mention whether Microsoft had taken any action or changed any policy as a result.

To address growing needs for newer technologies, the Pentagon has established the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), which provides capital to tech companies willing resolve problems faced by the US military.

Following Google's decision to cease cooperation with the Pentagon on the Project Maven artificial intelligence contract, DIU director Michael Brown said his agency was getting numerous offers from other commercial companies that were interested in working with the US military.

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Nine people killed in new US airstrike in Somalia

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 11:36AM

The United States military has reportedly conducted an airstrike in Somalia, killing nine people.

The US's Africa Command (AFRICOM) claimed in a press release that the US military had struck a position in Somalia and killed nine al-Shabab militants a day earlier.

"To support the Federal Government of Somalia's continued efforts to degrade al-Shabab, US forces conducted an airstrike targeting al-Shabab militants near Lebede, Somalia," AFRICOM said.

"We currently assess this airstrike killed nine militants with no civilians involved," it claimed, Reuters reported on Sunday.

AFRICOM says it carries out periodic airstrikes in the Horn of Africa country to support the UN-backed government there, which has been making efforts to eradicate the al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabab group in the past years.

The US military began conducting airstrikes in Somalia in 2007, with helicopters and AC-130 gunships. In June 2011, American forces began using drones to carry out airstrikes in Somalia on purported militant positions, in a mission which has so far failed to uproot the militants there.

US President Donald Trump has approved increased military operations against purported members of al-Shabab in Africa and Daesh in the Middle East and Asia.

Some observers say the US has stepped up its operations in Somalia  as well as elsewhere  in often secretive efforts to expand its military influence in those regions.

A recent report suggested Pentagon had secretly expanded its military presence in Tunisia, another North African country.

The US military has in recent years used the presence of Takfiri militants as a pretext to build up its forces across the continent, where it reportedly has over 6,000 boots on the ground.

The US also carries out drone strikes in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen, and Libya.

Locals say the US drone attacks often target civilians in those countries.

The civilian deaths have caused an international outcry. Pentagon's controversial use of drones is shrouded in secrecy, lacks a clear legal foundation, and may amount to war crimes, according to experts on international law and human rights groups.

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Bahrain opposition warns about abuse of female activists

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 08:23AM

Bahrain's largest opposition group has warned about the ruling regime's sweeping arrest and abuse campaign against female activists throughout the course of a campaign of suppression that has already taken the lives of scores of dissidents.

Manama has rounded up as many as 994 women for demanding "freedom and democracy" since the start of anti-regime rallies on the island in 2011, al-Wefaq tweeted on Sunday.

The al-Wefaq said in its tweet message that Bahrain's ruling regime was subjecting women to all types of inhumane treatment, such as imprisonment, torture, and intimidation. The females were becoming "increasingly vulnerable" to the draconian methods, the movement added.

It cited the security forces' arrest earlier in the week of three sisters, named Fatimah, Iman, and Amal, from the Diraz Village in northern Bahrain, which is under a siege imposed by the government.

Al-Wefaq described the arrests as "violation of all of the Bahraini women's values."

It also said the regime had separately detained a mother of two, leaving her children unsupervised.

"The Bahraini woman is a very amazing and advanced model of high understanding and an active and a great person who has sacrificed herself for her homeland," the society insisted.

One of the most high-profile arrested female activists was Zainab Al-Khawaja who was detained in December 2014 and sentenced to three years in prison for tearing up a picture of King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. She was freed during a visit by then US secretary of state John Kerry in April 2016, but her case has not been shuttered.

In mid-October, three female prisoners started a hunger strike against their insufferable incarceration conditions.

The high-profile activists, Hajer Mansoor Hassan, 49, 41-year-old Najah Ahmed Yusef, and Medina Ali, asked for the glass barriers between them to be removed and they be allowed visits by family members as well as more access to the prison's courtyard and three phone calls per week.

The ruling Al Khalifah family has been cracking down on peaceful protests which activists say are meant to promote the people's legitimate right to equality and freedom of expression.

It has banned all opposition groupings, including al-Wefaq, and handed down a life sentence to its leader Sheikh Ali Salman.

The regime has been leveling charges of "terrorism" and subversion against political dissidents, and has been stripping key opposition figures of their citizenship.

On March 5, 2017, Bahrain's Parliament approved the trial of civilians at military tribunals in a measure blasted by human rights campaigners as being tantamount to imposition of an undeclared martial law countrywide.

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US warplanes dropped more bombs in Afghanistan in 2018 than any other year

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 03:41AM

US warplanes have dropped more munitions in Afghanistan during the first 10 months of this year than during any other full calendar year since the American Air Force began documenting monthly bomb usage in the war-torn nation back in 2006.

US military forces dropped 5,982 bombs in Afghanistan between January and October of 2018, according to new data released by Air Force Central Command's (AFCENT) combined air operations center, as cited in a Saturday report by US-based pro-military news outlet Task & Purpose. The figure reflects a 37-percent increase from the 4,361 munitions deployed during all of 2017.

Additionally, the US-led coalition aircraft flew nearly 6,600 sorties, a 43-percent hike from the 4,603 conducted during all of 2017, although the number of sorties that actually involved weapons releases dropped from 27-percent in 2017 to only 12-percent in 2018, the data further shows, pointing to a change that suggests fewer warplanes are releasing more bombs than ever before.

According to the report, the drastic rise in munitions releases is not surprising since during his presidential campaign, US President Donald Trump laid out a simple vision for ridding the Middle East of the terrorists, saying: "bomb the sh-t out of 'em."

However, the new bombing data in Afghanistan comes amid reports that Trump is pushing to withdraw the entire American forces from the terror-ravaged nation by the 2020 presidential election, extricating his administration from a conflict that he believes "we aren't winning," according to an NBC News report broadcast in August 2017.

Military magazine Stars and Stripes also reported that the munitions deployed by US aircraft were primarily focused on terrain denial, as well as depriving Taliban militants of the drug labs that help fund the militants' years-long armed campaign against US-led forces occupying Afghanistan.

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Senior Afghan Taliban Commander Killed In Air Strike

By RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan December 02, 2018

A top commander of the Afghan Taliban has been killed in the southern province of Helmand.

Provincial Governor Mohammad Yasin Khan told RFE/RL that Mullah Abdulmanan was killed along with four other militants in an air strike in the Nawzad district on December 1.

Mullah Abdulmanan was in charge of Helmand Province for the militants group.

His death was confirmed by Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid and by the U.S. military.

"They're going to have trouble intensifying the fight when their fighters and leaders are under constant assault," Colonel Dave Butler, spokesman for U.S. Forces in Afghanistan, said in an e-mailed statement.

Talks to end the 17-year war in Afghanistan are "the only solution," Butler added.

Afghan Interior Ministry spokesman Najib Danish described Mullah Abdulmanan as the Taliban movement's top military leader in southern Afghanistan and his death as a major blow to the militants.

"His death will lower the moral of the enemy and result in [the] improvement of security in Helmand and other southern provinces," Danish said.

Taliban fighters increased their control over Helmand, the province that supplies the largest share of Afghanistan's opium crop, in the years following the withdrawal of most NATO combat troops in 2014.

Mullah Abdulmanan's killing comes despite increased efforts by the Afghan government and its Western backers to put an end to the war in Afghanistan.

Last month, U.S. special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad held talks with the Taliban in Qatar as the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump stepped up efforts to settle the Afghan conflict.

And Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on November 28 laid out what he called a "roadmap" for peace talks with the Taliban and said his government had formed a 12-person team for the negotiations.

The militants have long refused U.S. demands to directly negotiate with the Western-backed government in Kabul, which has struggled to counter attacks from the militant group since 2014.

With reporting by Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/senior- afghan-taliban-commander-killed-in-air- strike/29633363.html

Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Advisor to Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko Yuriy Biryukov accused Ukrainian MP of Samopomich political party Semen Semenchenko of "exporting Maidan" to Georgia.

Biryokov said that Semenchenko dragged them into a diplomatic scandal.

Semenchenko confirmed his presence in Tbilisi, but said that "various rumors are being spread regarding the detention."

He dismissed the speculations that the detainees came to Tbilisi to attend the opposition rally. "The individuals who have been detained were not present at the rally at all," Agenda.ge cited Semenchnko as saying.

He added that the was waiting for the outcomes of legal procedures.

One Georgian and six Ukrainian citizens were detained in Tbilisi yesterday. Their weapons have been seized and the Georgian Interior Ministry is investigating possible links between the detainees and the current, post-election political situation in Georgia. Georgia's Interior Ministry said that the individuals have been detained in the Guru and Alliance Hotels in Tbilisi.

According to the ministry, the individuals came to Georgia on 27 November. They have been charged with illegal purchase and possession of weapons and ammunition.

The Interior Ministry is investigating whether the individuals are linked with the current political process in Georgia [yesterdays opposition rally in Tbilisi and post-election situation in the country].Thousands In Georgia Protest Alleged Election Fraud

By RFE/RL's Georgian Service, RFE/RL's Echo of the Caucasus December 02, 2018

TBILISI -- Thousands of people have protested in the Georgian capital against the election of the ruling party-backed candidate Salome Zurabishvili to the presidency, claiming fraud in last week's runoff vote.

Holding national and EU flags, the protesters gathered on December 2 in front of the parliament building in the center of Tbilisi, calling for early parliamentary elections and a new election law.

French-born Zurabishvili, who had the backing of billionaire former Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili's ruling Georgian Dream party, won 59.5 percent of the vote in the November 28 runoff, according to election authorities.

Grigol Vashadze, the candidate of opposition groups led by the United National Movement, which was founded by former President Mikheil Saakashvili, had 40.5 percent.

Vashadze told the protesters in Tbilisi that the "stolen election" should be annulled and snap general elections held.

"Our lawyers are preparing a lawsuit, which we will submit to court. We will demand that the results of the presidential election be annulled. Also, an investigation needs to be carried out," he said.

Vashadze also said that the authorities had to overhaul Georgia's electoral system and by December 16 establish a working group to hold talks with the opposition.

Saakashvili Speaks

Speaking to the crowd from the Netherlands, where he lives in self-imposed exile, Saakashvili said that "Georgia's future is being born on this square today."

"We will fight peacefully but we will never give up," Saakashvili said via video link.

"The fight will end with our victory and removing the oligarch from power," he added.

Both Zurabishvili and Vashadze are former foreign ministers of the South Caucasus country, which has warm ties with the United States and the European Union.

The presidential election was seen as a trial run for the contest between Georgian Dream and the opposition in parliamentary polls scheduled for 2020, as well as a test of Georgia's democratic credentials as it seeks EU and NATO membership.

A day after the runoff, international monitors said the vote was "competitive," but Zurabishvili "enjoyed an undue advantage," citing the misuse of administrative resources that "blurred the line between party and state."

Georgian Dream has ruled since ousting Saakashvili's United National Movement from power in 2012.

In January, Saakahsvili was sentenced in absentia to three years in prison after being convicted of trying to cover up evidence about the 2006 killing of a Georgian banker.

The former president has rejected all the charges as politically motivated.

With reporting by AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/thousands-in- georgia-protest-alleged-election -fraud/29633223.html

Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Kosovo Serb Lawmakers Occupy Office Over 100-Percent Tariff On Serbia

By RFE/RL December 02, 2018

Lawmakers representing Kosovo's ethnic Serb minority are refusing to leave the parliament building in Pristina to protest a 100-percent tax on products imported from Serbia.

Nine lawmakers from the Serb List party said on December 2 that they would remain inside their office in the building and seek a meeting with the European Union's Enlargement Commissioner Johannes Hahn.

The deputies plan to tell Hahn, who is expected to visit Pristina on December 3, that the tariff "practically blocks" the distribution of food and other essential products to ethnic Serbs living in northern Kosovo, they said in a statement.

On November 21, the Kosovar government slapped the 100-percent tax in retaliation for what it said were Belgrade's efforts to undermine the young republic on the international stage.

The move drew angry reactions from Belgrade and calls from the European Union and the United States to revoke the measure. It also prompted the mayors of four predominantly ethnic Serb municipalities in northern Kosovo to resign.

EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini last week urged Kosovo to rescind the tariff, saying the measure "only complicates the situation further."

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo issued a similar call, urging Pristina to work with Belgrade to "avoid provocations and deescalate tensions."

However, Kosovar Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj on November 29 spurned the EU and U.S. calls, saying the levy will stay until Serbia recognizes Kosovo's sovereignty and reaches a normalization agreement with its neighbor.

Relations between Pristina and Belgrade have been tense since Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008.

Although more than 110 countries recognize Kosovo, Serbia does not.

Both Kosovo and Serbia have been told they must resolve their differences in order to make progress toward EU membership, but EU-sponsored normalization talks have been stop-and-go in recent months.

With reporting by AP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kosovo-serb- lawmakers-occupy-office-over-100-percent- tariff-on-serbia/29633499.html

Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Russia, Turkey Agree to Continue Joint Work on Idlib Memorandum Implementation

Sputnik News

01:17 02.12.2018

BUENOS AIRES (Sputnik) - The Russian and Turkish delegations to the G20 summit in Buenos Aires agreed to continue the joint work aimed at implementation of the memorandum on the situation in the rebel-held Syrian province of Idlib, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told reporters.

Earlier in the day, Cavusoglu met Russian President Vladimir Putin on sidelines of the G20 summit in Buenos Aires

"We discussed many issues, energy issues, trade, some other issues as well cultural issues. And we also discussed the Idlib issue and, in general, Syria. We should continue Astana format meetings. Our teams will continue working together on the Idlib memorandum to implement the Idlib memorandum and joint patrols of Russian and Turkish troops will also start along the boundaries of Idlib. These are all the issues we discussed and we will continue working together and we should also continue implementing the Idlib deal, which is important for Syria," Cavusoglu said on Saturday.

He added that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had proposed to hold trilateral meetings between foreign ministers of Turkey, Russia and Iran on the Syrian issue, particularly, on creation of the Syrian constitutional committee.

"In principle, I said 'yes.' We need to actually call the first meeting of this [Syrian] constitution committee as soon as possible, possibly by the end of this year as we agreed in Istanbul," Cavusoglu added.

Meanwhile, Vladimir Putin also said that Russia and Turkey are concerned about the situation in the Syrian province of Idlib, hoping that the joint efforts of the defence ministries and special services of the two nations will result in solving the situation and creating a demilitarized zone in the area as soon as possible.

"The situation in Idlib worries us too. We see that our Turkish partners have not yet managed to achieve everything [that is planned], but they are working. We also see that they are working on creating a demilitarized zone," Putin said at a press conference, when asked about his contacts with Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the G20 sidelines.

"We hope that our special services and the defence ministries will resolve this issue via joint efforts as soon as possible," he added.

The demilitarized zone in Idlib was established on September 17, when Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan agreed on the issue.

 Sputnik

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Taliban Confirms Top Commander Killed by US Drone

By Ayaz Gul December 02, 2018

An American drone strike in southern Afghanistan has killed a key Taliban military commander, dealing a serious blow to the insurgent group.

Afghan and Taliban officials Sunday identified the slain man as Mullah Abdul Manan, saying he was killed along with four partners Saturday in the Nawzad district of Helmand province.

An insurgent statement said Manan was its "shadow governor" for the largest Afghan province, where the Taliban controls or contests most of the territory, and described his death as "a major loss" for the insurgent group.

Helmand is also the hub of the country's massive drug trade and Manan was controlling it to generate funds for the Taliban.

The Taliban in its statement claimed the slain leader successfully led the insurgents to captured "95 percent territory" of Helmand from "the occupation" of American-backed Afghan forces.

It is perceived that Manan played a key role in organizing battlefield attacks in provinces around Helmand, including volatile Ghazni where a roadside bomb this week killed three American soldiers and wounded three others. An American contractor was also injured in the blast.

Saturday's deadly drone attack came amid reports the United States has dropped more bombs in Afghanistan in the first 10 months of 2018 then in any other full year in a decade, releasing nearly 6,000 munitions.

U.N. and Afghan officials say an aerial attack by U.S. forces last Tuesday killed more than 23 Afghan civilians in Helmand, including 15 children and eight women.

The United Nations has already documented a record increase in Afghan civilian casualties due to airstrikes by pro-government forces.

The intensified battlefield attacks in Afghanistan come as Washington has recently opened direct talks with the Taliban to promote a politically negotiated settlement to the prolonged conflict.

Afghan officials confirmed on Sunday that an airstrike in the eastern border province of Paktia killed at least 10 civilians, including women and children. It was not known whether the U.S. military carried out the attack. The killings provoked residents to protest and display the bodies of the victims.

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Joint Forces Command of Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen: "At request of the Special Envoy of the Secretary General for Yemen, and following consultations with the legitimate Yemeni government, Joint Forces Command of Coalition facilitates evacuation of 50 wounded Houthi combatants to receive treatment."

Saudi Press Agency

Monday 1440/3/25 - 2018/12/03

Riyadh, December 03, 2018, SPA -- The Official Spokesman of the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen, Col. Turki Al-Malki states that the Joint Forces Command of the Coalition has received a request from the Special Envoy of the Secretary General for Yemen, Mr. Martin Griffiths, to facilitate evacuation procedures of (50) wounded Houthi combatants to (Muscat). For humanitarian reasons, and under building confidence between Yemeni parties leading up to Sweden peace talks sponsored by the SESGY (Mr. Martin Griffiths).

Col. Al-Malki clarifies that a UN chartered airplane will arrive at Sana'a International Airport tomorrow, Monday, to evacuate wounded combatants, accompanied by (50) escorts, (3) Yemeni doctors and a UN doctor, from (Sana'a) to (Muscat) following completion of due procedures and coordination.

Col. Al-Malki concludes his statement by reaffirming the efforts of the Joint Forces Command of the Coalition in providing all efforts and facilitations needed to support the Special Envoy of the Secretary General for Yemen's endeavors to reach a political solution, and provide all humanitarian-related cases' facilitations, in accordance with humanitarian principles and the Customary International Humanitarian Law.

--SPA

01:48 LOCAL TIME 22:48 GMT

0038

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US reaches trade war truce with China after Trump-Xi talks

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 05:23AM

The United States and China have agreed to temporarily stop their trade war following high-stakes talks between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, the White House says.

Based on their agreement, Washington will not increase new tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10 percent to 25 percent in January.

"If at the end of this period of time, the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the 10 percent tariffs will be raised to 25 percent," a White House statement said Saturday after dinner talks between Trump and Xi on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Buenos Aires.

In the statement, Trump, who has imposed a slew of tariffs on Chinese goods and accused Beijing of meddling in US elections, called his meeting with Xi "amazing and productive."

Meanwhile, "China will agree to purchase a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial, amount of agricultural, energy, industrial, and other product from the United States to reduce the trade imbalance between our two countries," according to the statement.

"China has agreed to start purchasing agricultural product from our farmers immediately," it added.

China earlier confirmed the outlines of the arrangement, which will give the two sides a chance to settle their differences in the dispute.

Trump initiated what is effectively a trade war with China in April, when he first imposed unusually heavy tariffs on imports from the Asian country.

Beijing has imposed retaliatory tariffs of $50 billion on US products in retaliation to earlier tariffs by the US.

The US imported nearly $500 billion worth of products from China last year while exporting about $130 billion in American goods to the country in the same period.

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Truce in Trade War After Trump-Xi Dinner in Argentina

By Steve Herman December 02, 2018

The world's two largest economies, the U.S. and China, have agreed to a small truce in their escalating trade war after a meeting between presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping following the G-20 summit.

Trump, speaking to reporters on Air Force One after the plane departed Argentina, said his agreement made over dinner with Xi, will go down "as one of the largest deals ever made.  And it'll have an incredibly positive impact on farming, meaning agriculture, industrial products, computers  every type of product."

Trump agreed that he will leave the tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese products at the 10 percent rate, and not raise it to 25 percent, for now, as he has threatened to do come Jan. 1, according to a White House statement.

"China will agree to purchase a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial, amount of agricultural, energy, industrial and other product from the United States to reduce the trade imbalance between our two countries," said White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders. "China has agreed to start purchasing agricultural product from our farmers immediately."

Trump and Xi also "agreed to immediately begin negotiations on structural changes with respect to forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and cyber theft, services and agriculture, according to the White House statement. "Both parties agree that they will endeavor to have this transaction completed within the next 90 days. If at the end of this period of time, the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the 10 percent tariffs will be raised to 25 percent."

Some of the details were echoed by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who confirmed that both countries will step up negotiations.

The news is likely to bring cheer Monday to global financial markets, which have been sensitive to the escalating trade battles between China and the United States.

Fentanyl designation

At the dinner, Xi also agreed to designate fentanyl as a controlled substance, meaning that people selling the powerful opioid to the United States will be subject to China's maximum penalty under the law.

The White House is calling the Chinese president's decision a "wonderful humanitarian gesture."

Trump, sitting across from Xi at a long banquet table, described their relationship as "incredible" and predicted that would mean "we'll probably end up getting something that's good for China and good for the United States."

In his remarks, the Chinese president noted, "it's been a long time since our previous meeting and a lot of things have taken place."

Xi added, "Only with cooperation between us can we serve the interest of world peace and prosperity."

G-20 summit concludes

The 2-hour meal, which was moved up an hour earlier than its original start time following the conclusion of the G-20 leaders' meeting here, included a group of top officials from both sides.

Among those at the table for the United States: Trade policy adviser Peter Navarro, seen as the most hawkish member of Trump's team when it comes to economic issues with China. The other key attendees for the U.S., according to the White House, were Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, White House Chief of Staff John Kelly, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, National Security Adviser John Bolton, the president's son-in-law Jared Kushner (who is a senior adviser) and Larry Kudlow, assistant to the president for economic policy.

Fears of no progress

Many major business leaders in both the United States and China had hoped for some sort of truce or partial deal in what is seen as an escalating trade dispute between the world's two largest economies.

Despite months of complaints by the United States and the U.S. imposing tariffs on about $250 billion worth of Chinese goods, Beijing "has not fundamentally alerted its unfair, unreasonable, and market-distorting practices," according to a report issued last week by Lighthizer.

Observers feared that if no progress was made at the Trump-Xi dinner, the U.S. president would make good on his threat to double the amount of Chinese goods facing punitive taxes, and escalate tariffs to a 25 percent level at the start of the new year.

China, in response, had been threatening to impose taxes on an additional 5,000 types of American imports worth about $60 billion.

WTO reform

"I think the worst of it is that the conflict between China and the U.S. is again showing the limits of multilateral institutions, in particular the World Trade Organization," Roberto Bouzas, an international relations and economics professor at the Universidad de San Andres, told VOA.

In its communique Saturday at the conclusion of the leaders' summit, the G-20 called for reform of the WTO to improve its functioning and said the group would review progress made by the trade organization at next year's summit in Japan.

"For the first time ever, the G-20 recognized the WTO is currently falling short of meeting its objectives and that it's in need of reform," a U.S. official, speaking on condition of not being named, told reporters.

"We'll see what reactions we get in the next few months," to the WTO reform call in the communique, G-20 host Mauricio Macri, the president of Argentina, told reporters, adding, "there is clearly a need for dispute mechanisms that are more agile."

No press conference

Earlier in the day, Trump canceled a planned news conference, saying the timing was not right because of the death of former U.S. President George H.W. Bush at the age of 94.

"He was a terrific guy and he'll be missed. He lived a full life and an exemplary life," Trump said of the late president. He did not respond to a reporter's question about whether he regrets his past criticism of the 41st president, and his son, George W. Bush, who was the 43rd president.

"The fact that we lost a president really puts a damper on it," Trump said of Saturday evening's dinner.

At the table, Trump announced his plane would fly to Houston, in the state of Texas, after the return of Air Force One from Argentina, to transport Bush's casket to Washington.

During the meal, Xi also expressed sympathies for the passing of the former president, saying Bush, who also was once the U.S. envoy to China, had "made many contributions to U.S.-China friendship."

Xi, according to the White House, also told Trump he is open to approving the previously unapproved $44 billion bid by American semiconductor and telecommunication equipment manufacturer Qualcomm to purchase Dutch semiconductor maker NXP should the deal again be presented to him.

The acquisition collapsed four months ago after Chinese regulators expressed anti-trust concerns.

VOA's Bill Gallo contributed to this report.

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Trump says meeting with DPRK's top leader Kim likely early next year: report

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 14:44, December 02, 2018

WASHINGTON, Dec. 1 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly said on Saturday on his way back here that his second meeting with the top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), Kim Jong Un, is likely to happen in January or February next year.

According to several Western media outlets, Trump told them aboard Air Force One after attending the Group of 20 (G20) summit that the meeting would occur early in 2019.

Three sites are being considered, he added.

Trump was also quoted as saying that at some point, he would invite Kim to the United States.

Earlier on Friday, while meeting with his South Korean counterpart Moon Jae-in, Trump discussed his intention to hold a second U.S.-DPRK summit, and restated with Moon a common commitment to work closely together on making it happen.

Trump also met with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Friday. They reviewed the recent developments related to the DPRK and discussed how best to work with the international community, including South Korea, to continue to put pressure on the DPRK until it implements its commitment to denuclearize.

After Trump and Kim met in Singapore in June, negotiations between Washington and Pyongyang have stalled due to differences on the scale of denuclearization, U.S. sanctions, and whether to issue a war-ending declaration, among others.

On Nov. 7, the State Department announced that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's meeting with Kim Yong Chol, vice chairman of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea Central Committee, which had been scheduled in New York for Nov. 8, would "take place at a later date."

Trump said earlier in October that his meeting with Kim would be held after the midterm Congressional elections, and the venue of his second meeting with Kim had been narrowed down to "three or four" locations.

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Zarif slams US hypocrisy over UNSCR

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Dec 2, IRNA -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif condemned US hypocrisy in accusing Iran of breaching the UN Security Council resolution 2231.

"'Surrealism' is now the US' modus operandi in its foreign affairs: While itself violates UNSCR 2231and even threatens to punish those who don't wish to violate it in abiding with illegal US sanctionsit now falsely accuses Iran of violating the very SAME resolution," Zarif Tweeted on Sunday.

Earlier Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi said 'Iran's missile program has a defensive nature and is designed according to the needs of the country,'

Qasemi made the remarks in reaction to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo who had claimed that Iran missile program violates UNSC Resolution 2231.

Qasemi added that it is patently absurd that the US is citing a resolution that not only have they themselves violated by quitting it illegally and unilaterally, but they also encouraged others to violate it; or, if they follow it, the US will punish them with sanctions.

9376**2050

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Iran defense power conveying message of peace: Minister

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Dec 2, IRNA -- Iran's defense power is for keeping the peace and security and sends out a message of peace and security, Iran's defense minister told the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) on Sunday.

'Iran has been able to develop the desirable defense products, and the Defense Ministry, though it has been sanctioned for the past 40 years, has become self-sufficient in defense industry,' said Brigadier-General Amir Hatami.

Brigadier-General Hatami said that Iran is a big power in missile, radar, drones and armored vehicles.

'Iranian drones are flying long distances in different points without the slightest mistakes and annihilate their targets with great precision.'

'Iran is considered one of the biggest missile powers,' Iran's defense minister said.

He added that the inauguration of the production line of Kowsar fighter showed that Iranian engineers are highly capable and that sanctions are ineffective.

General Hatami also said that the strategy of the Ministry of Defense to update Iranian defensive equipment with using domestic capacities.

He added that Iran has become so strong that the Arrogance has no way except accepting it.

9417**2050

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Judicial Watch Sues for Records of FBI Meetings with Clinton-DNC Law Firm, Perkins Coie in 2016

Contact: Jill Farrell, Judicial Watch, 202-646-5188

WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2018 /Christian Newswire/ -- Judicial Watch announced today that it filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit against the Department of Justice seeking records of all meetings in 2016 between former FBI General Counsel James Baker and the Perkins Coie law firm. The Clinton campaign and the Democratic National Committee (DNC) reportedly paid Fusion GPS to create the "salacious and unverified" Clinton-DNC anti-Trump dossier.

The lawsuit cites a specific media report that FBI top lawyer Baker met with Perkins Coie lawyers to discuss allegations of collusion between Donald Trump and Russia. The meeting reportedly took place weeks before the 2016 election and before the FBI secured a controversial FISA spy warrant targeting then-candidate Trump's campaign.

Judicial Watch filed the lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia after the DOJ failed to respond to an October 9, 2018, FOIA request (Judicial Watch v. U.S. Department of Justice...

Read more...Iran would continue missile tests to build up its defences, the spokesman for Irans armed forces, Brigadier-General Abolfazl Shekarchi said.

"Missile tests ... are carried out for defence and the countrys deterrence, and we will continue this," Tasnim cited Shekarchi as saying.

"We will continue to both develop and test missiles. This is outside the framework of (nuclear) negotiations and part of our national security, for which we will not ask any countrys permission," the spokesman added. He did not confirm or deny Iran had tested a new missile.Iran missile not banned by UN resolutions: Spox

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Dec 2, IRNA -- Not even one resolution has been issued by the United Nations Security Council prohibiting Iran's missile program or tests, said the spokesman of Iran's ministry of Foreign Affairs.

'Iran's missile program has a defensive nature and is designed according to the needs of the country,' said Bahram Qasemi on Saturday in reaction to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

Pompeo had claimed that Iran missile program violates UNSC Resolution 2231.

Qasemi added that it is patently absurd that the US is citing a resolution that not only have they themselves violated by quitting it illegally and unilaterally, but they also encouraged others to violate it; or, if they follow it, the US will punish them with sanctions.

9417**1771

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No resolution bans Iran's missile tests or program: FM spokesman

ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency

Sun / 2 December 2018 / 12:42

Tehran (ISNA)  "Iran's missile program is a defensive plan, based on the needs of our country," Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman, Bahram Qassemi said, reacting to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's recent allegation that Iran's missile tests violate UN Security Council resolution 2231.

In a Sunday statement, Qassemi underlined that Iran's missile program is defensive in nature and has been drawn up based on the country's needs.

"No resolution passed in the Security Council, has banned Iran's missile tests or program," he stressed.

Speaking directly to the US secretary of state, Qassemi said," It's interesting and ridiculous that you refer to a resolution that not only you have violated by unilaterally and illegally withdrawing from the JCPOA, but also you urge others to breach it, and even threaten to punish or slap sanctions on them if they implement the agreement".

End Item

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Zarif blasts 'surrealism' guiding US foreign policy

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 10:13PM

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif condemns the "surrealism" informing the US' foreign policy after his American counterpart accuses Tehran of violating the very UN Security Council resolution that Washington is in breach of.

"'Surrealism' is now the US' modus operandi in its foreign affairs," Zarif tweeted on Sunday.

Earlier, Mike Pompeo had accused Tehran of testing a missile "capable of carrying nuclear warheads" in violation of Security Council Resolution 2231.

The resolution -- which represents a nuclear agreement signed between Iran and other countries, including the US, in 2015 -- bans all activity relating to "nuclear-capable" weapons. Iran does not engage in any such activity, something that has been verified on many occasions by the UN nuclear watchdog.

Washington itself started breaching the resolution in May after it left the nuclear agreement. In the following months, it took further steps in breach of the resolution by restoring the sanctions that had been lifted under the agreement, and even threatened the countries potentially ignoring the bans with "secondary sanctions."

"While itself violates UNSCR 2231, it (the US) now falsely accuses Iran of violating the very same resolution," Zarif wrote.

Referring to the US' warning against the countries that could break the bans targeting Iran, he reminded that Washington now "even threatens to punish those who don't wish to violate it in abiding with illegal US sanctions."

The top Iranian diplomat incorporated #Hypocrisy at the bottom of his tweet.

Pompeo talk 'paradoxical'

Earlier in the day, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi said Pompeo was talking in "paradoxical" terms since he had predicated his remarks on a resolution that the US itself had contravened.

Qassemi also repeated the country's assertion that the Iranian missile program was entirely defensive in nature.

He asserted that Iran had to equip itself with "whatever it needs to defend itself" in the light of the past and ongoing tensions in the region, and its own past experience of coming under an imposed war by Iraq.

The official, meanwhile, reminded that the missile program was a matter of the Islamic Republic's own discretion. "We do not take advice on our missile policies from others, and view the matter in the light of our own defensive preferences," he said.

The spokesman said the US was trying to adversely affect Iran's current relations with the international community, especially Europe, in line with its policy of Iranophobia.

US arming Yemen terrorists

In a separate tweet, Zarif remarked about a recent report by The Guardian that showed weapons supplied by the US and Britain had "fallen into" the hands of splinter groups in Yemen, "some with links to al-Qaeda and Isis (Daesh)."

"Complicity in Saudi & UAE war crimes with arms, intel & logistical support apparently not enough. US also proliferating advanced weapons to extremists including al-Qaida & ISIS (Daesh)," the foreign minister wrote.

The US and Britain have been generously arming Saudi Arabia and its allies since the 2015 launch of a brutal Saudi-led invasion against Yemen.

The countries also provide the invasion, which seeks to restore the impoverished country's former Riyadh-backed officials, with logistical assistance, including bombing coordinates.

"First Syria; now in Yemen. Aim: Permanent instability to justify heinous policy," Zarif added.

Both Washington and London have likewise been channeling arms to and providing training for various anti-Syria groups since 2011, when the Arab country began facing rampant foreign-backed militancy.

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Iran will continue to test, develop deterrent missiles: Commander

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 05:37PM

The senior spokesman of the Iranian Armed Forces says the country will continue to test and develop its missiles in line with its deterrence policy despite adversarial positions taken on this issue by US officials.

"Missile tests and the overall defensive capability of the Islamic Republic are for defense [purposes] and in line with our country's deterrence [policy]We will continue to both test and develop missiles," Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi said on Sunday, adding, "This issue is outside the framework of any negotiations and is part of our national security. We will not ask any country's permission in this regard."

Iran assured regional countries that the Islamic Republic casts no eye on the interests of other countries, the commander said and added that such measures are only in line with boosting the country's deterrent and defense power.

Shekarchi made the remarks in reaction to an earlier allegation by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in a post on his Twitter account, claiming that Iran has "just test-fired a medium range ballistic missile" in violation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231.

Pompeo condemned what he described as "growing" Tehran's "missile testing and missile proliferation," and called upon the Islamic Republic to cease these activities.

UN Security Council Resolution 2231 enshrined the 2015 international nuclear agreement, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), from which Washington has withdrawn under the pretext that it should have included Iran's missile program as well.

Under the deal, reached between Iran and six major powers -- the United States, Britain, France, Germany, Russia and China -- Tehran agreed to put limits on its nuclear program in exchange for the removal of nuclear-related sanctions.

Earlier on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi rejected Pompeo's claims against Iran's missile capabilities, saying the program is defensive and does not violate the international agreement on Tehran's nuclear program.

"Iran's missile program has a defensive nature and is designed according to the needs of the country," Qassemi added.

Iran's Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami also said on Sunday that the Islamic Republic is currently one of the world's topmost missile powers despite being subject to severe sanctions during the past 40 years.

"Today, Iran is among the world's topmost powers in building missiles, radars, armored vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)," the Iranian defense minister said in an exclusive interview with IRNA, emphasizing that the country's defense power is meant to send the message of peace and friendship to other nations.

Elsewhere in his remarks, the senior spokesman of the Iranian Armed Forces pointed to recent US threats about the possibility of military action against Iran and said, "We are giving this warning that in case of any strategic error by the US and its allies in the region, they will receive such a strong slap in the face from the Islamic Republic that will make them regret [what they have done] forever."

Shekarchi added that American officials speak about military action against Tehran after they suffered repeated defeats at the hands of the resistance front.

He emphasized that individuals with low experience have come to power in the United States who "are not aware of the Islamic Republic's defensive and deterrent power and capability."

The Iranian military official then urged American officials to ask US military commanders in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz about Iran's deterrent power before taking a stance.

US State Department's director of policy planning and head of Iran Action Group Brian Hook said on Thursday that military action against Iran could be possible should the United States' sanctions against the country fail to curb Tehran from threatening Washington's interests.

"We have been very clear with the Iranian regime that we will not hesitate to use military force when our interests are threatened," Hook said, adding, "I think right now, while we have the military option on the table, our preference is to use all of the tools that are at our disposal diplomatically."

His comments came a day after Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei said Iran is not seeking war with any country, but the Armed Forces should develop their capabilities to deter any potential aggressor.

"That reality  alongside the need for the country to address the areas where it is lagging behind  necessitates additional and extraordinary diligence in all spheres, including the naval power," the Leader said on Wednesday.

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Iran among world's top missile powers: Defense minister

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 02:14PM

Iran's Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami says the Islamic Republic is currently one of the world's topmost missile powers despite being subject to severe sanctions during the past 40 years.

"Today, Iran is among the world's topmost powers in building missiles, radars, armored vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)," the Iranian defense minister said in an exclusive interview with IRNA on Sunday, emphasizing that Iran's defense power is meant to send the message of peace and friendship to other nations.

"Iran has managed to attain a very desirable and acceptable performance in the field of defensive products and the Defense Ministry has become self-sufficient in defense industry despite tough sanctions [imposed] by the [global] arrogant system in 40 years," he added.

The Iranian defense chief further said the inauguration of the production line of the Kowsar fighter jet at Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Industrial Company in Isfahan Province last month proved that sanctions are ineffective.

On November 3, Iran launched the mass production of the fourth-generation all-indigenous interceptor jet, Kowsar, in a major step toward the renovation of its Air Force.

The aircraft, which has been designed to provide logistical support for ground operations, boasts advanced maneuvering capability and can be fitted with various projectiles.

It enjoys integrated design, an avionic and fire control system linked with digital military data network, a ballistic calculations computer system, head-up display (HUD), which focuses visual data in front of the pilot's sight, a multi-purpose radar, and an independent radio navigation system.

Elsewhere in his remarks, the Iranian defense minister said the country's Armed Forces currently enjoy high deterrent power and full defensive preparedness.

He noted that the Iranian Defense Ministry's strategy is to update defensive equipment used by the Armed Forces by turning to domestic capacities and refraining from relying on other countries.

Over the past years, Iran has made major breakthroughs in its defense sector and attained self-sufficiency in producing military equipment and hardware despite sanctions and economic pressures on the country.

The Islamic Republic maintains that its military power poses no threat to other countries and is merely attentive to its military doctrine of deterrence.

Despite tough and cruel sanctions imposed by the United States against the Islamic Republic, Iran held the 9th Iran Airshow on the southern island of Kish in the Persian Gulf late in November.

According to the airshow secretary, Bijan Bonakdar, 105 Iranian and 10 foreign companies participated in the four-day event.

He said the participants are showcasing their latest achievements in the sectors of aviation and aerospace at a time when the US is exerting mounting pressure on other countries to abide by its policies on Iran.

Many experts believe that holding of the 9th Iran Airshow at a time that the administration of US President Donald Trump has reinstated unilateral sanctions against Iran is a clear sign that the sanctions have failed to have any impact on the Islamic Republic's progress in different fields, nor on its relations with other countries.

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Iran rejects 'ridiculous' US claims against its missile program

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 07:53AM

Iran has rejected US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's claims against its missile capabilities, saying the program is defensive and does not violate the international agreement on Tehran's nuclear program.

"Iran's missile program has a defensive nature and is designed according to the needs of the country," Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qassemi said Sunday, responding to Pompeo's claim that Tehran had tested a medium-range ballistic missile.

Pompeo claimed in a statement released on Twitter Saturday that Iran was increasing its "testing and proliferation" of missiles and called on the Islamic Republic to "cease these activities."

The test, he said, "violates UNSCR 2231," citing the United Nations Security Council's endorsement of the international nuclear agreement which the United States abandoned in May.

"No resolution at the Security Council has banned Iran's missile program or missile tests," Qassemi said as he roasted Washington over its decision to pull out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

"What is interesting and, of course, ridiculous is that you are citing a resolution which you have not only violated with your unilateral and illegal withdrawal from the JCPOA, but also are encouraging others to violate it or even threaten to punish and sanction those who implement it," he added.

UN Security Council Resolution 2231 "calls on" Iran "not to undertake any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches using such ballistic missile technology."

Tehran has always emphasized that it has no nuclear warheads and that none of its missiles have been designed to carry nuclear weapons.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has repeatedly confirmed Iran's compliance with the accord.

Back in May, US President Donald Trump pulled his country out of the JCPOA despite objections from the other signatories to the nuclear deal.

Since then, Washington has imposed "toughest ever" sanctions against Iran. It has also warned of severe penalties for the companies that evade the bans and engage in business with Iran.

However, the European parties to the JCPOA have vowed all-out efforts to save the agreement and protect their firms in the face of American bans.

They are now working to set up the so-called Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) in a bid to circumvent the US sanctions against Iran and facilitate non-dollar trade with Tehran.

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U.S. Condemns Iran Missile Test

By RFE/RL December 02, 2018

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has condemned what he described as Iran's testing of a medium-range ballistic missile "capable of carrying multiple warheads."

"The missile has the ability to hit parts of Europe and any location in the Middle East," Pompeo said in a December 1 statement.

"This test violates UN Security Council Resolution 2231 that bans Iran from undertaking any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons," the statement added, citing the United Nations Security Council's endorsement of the 2015 international nuclear agreement, which the United States withdrew from in May.

Pompeo warned that Iran's "missile proliferation is growing" and called on Iran to "cease these activities."

The statement provided few details about the latest missile test.

It came amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington, which has reimposed tough sanctions on Iran that had been removed under the nuclear accord.

Tehran Reaction

The sanctions are part of a broader U.S. campaign to pressure Iran over what President Trump's administration describes as its "malign conduct" such as missile development and support for militant groups in the Middle East.

Tehran reacted to Pompeo's statement by saying that its missile program is purely for defensive purposes and not in breach of UN resolutions.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi did not confirm nor deny that Tehran conducted a missile test.

"Iran's missile program is defensive in nature," Ghasemi was quoted as saying on December 2 by the official government news agency IRNA.

"It is interesting and ironic that you cite a resolution that you have not only breached through your unilateral and unlawful withdrawal from the [nuclear] accord but that you also encourage others to breach or even threaten to punish and sanction them if they carry it out," Ghasemi added.

Later on December 2, General Abolfazl Shekarchi, a senior spokesman for Iran's armed forces, was quoted by the semi-official hard-line Tasnim news agency as saying that Iran will continue missile tests to build up its defense and deterrence capabilities.

U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said the Iranian launch was significant and was a reminder that Tehran was unlikely to be deterred from pursuing missile technology or supporting militant proxies.

"It shows that our best efforts to try to talk them out of their aggressive support of terrorism is probably going to be as unsuccessful as the UN's effort to stop them from launching missiles," Mattis said at a December 1 security forum in California.

He added that while the strategic threat from Iran was less significant globally than the one from North Korea, he said it was regionally significant. "And it could grow beyond that if it's not dealt with," Mattis said.

Tehran has repeatedly rejected negotiations over its missile program.

Iranian officials insist that the missiles are only to be used for defensive purposes.

"Iran will not abandon its defensive weapons...including its missiles that make America so angry," Iranian President Hassan Rohani said in September.

With reporting by Reuters and IRNA

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/us-condemns-iran- missile-test/29632995.html

Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Israel's opposition urges Benjamin Netanyahu to resign amid bribery charges

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 05:10PM

Israel's opposition leader has called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to step down after the Israeli police recommended indicting him and his wife, Sara, for bribery and other corruption charges.

Tzipi Livni, the leader of the opposition in the Knesset, made the comment in a Twitter post on Sunday.

"Netanyahu must go home before he destroys the law enforcement in order to save his own skin. The people of Israel deserve a clean leadership. Elections now!" she said.

Livni, who also leads the Hatnuah liberal party, issued the call shortly after the police recommended indicting the premier and his wife, as well as media mogul Shaul Elovitch and his wife, Iris, for bribery and other corruption allegations in an investigation dubbed Case 4000.

The case involved suspicions that Netanyahu, in his role as communications minister from 2014 to 2017, while he was also the premier, made controversial decisions that benefited Shaul Elovitch, who controlled Israel's largest telecommunications company, Bezeq.

In exchange, Elovitch, a long-time friend of Netanyahu's, allegedly ordered the Walla News website to provide favorable coverage of the Israeli premier and his wife.

The police said they had found evidence that "Netanyahu and those close to him blatantly intervened, sometimes on a daily basis, in the content published on the Walla news website, and sought to influence the appointment of senior employees (editors and reporters), while using their ties to Shaul and [his wife] Iris Elovitch."

Investigators said Netanyahu should stand trial on charges of accepting bribes, fraud and breach of trust and fraudulently accepting benefits.

Meanwhile, head of the Labor Party Avi Gabbay, who also leads the center-left political alliance of Zionist Union, echoed Livni's call.

"A prime minister with so many corruption cases around him cannot continue at his job and must resign," Gabbay tweeted.

"A man (Netanyahu) driven by a sick obsession of what will be said about him in the media can't lead" Israel, he further said, adding, "Every additional day at his post means damage" to the Israeli settlers.

This is the third such police recommendation against Netanyahu in recent months. Now, the Israeli attorney general should decide whether to bring indictments in the case.

The Israeli prime minister, however, dismissed the accusations against himself and his wife, saying the recommendations had already been determined "even before the investigations began."

The Israeli police have already recommended charging Netanyahu for bribery and breach of trust in Case 1000 and Case 2000.

Netanyahu is suspected of having received luxury gifts from businessmen overseas in Case 1000.

He is also suspected of negotiating favorable press coverage with the Yedioth Ahronoth publisher Arnon Mozes in Case 2000.

"I am certain that the authorized officials, after considering the matters, will reach the same conclusion in this case as well -- that there was nothing because there is nothing," Netanyahu further said on Sunday.

Israelis have been holding protests to demand the prime minister's resignation over the corruption scandals, but Netanyahu has described the events as part of efforts meant to topple him "at any cost."

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Israeli police recommend bribery charges against PM Netanyahu, wife

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 10:46AM

The Israel police have recommended indicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara for bribery and other corruption charges in an investigation dubbed Case 4000.

In a statement released on Sunday, the police said that Netanyahu was suspected of taking bribes and of conduct involving "a conflict of interest" when he made decisions that benefited Shaul Elovitch, who controlled Israel's largest telecommunications firm, Bezeq.

The case involved suspicions that Netanyahu intervened with regulators to help Bezeq and in exchange Elovitch ordered the Walla News website to provide favorable coverage of the Israeli premier and his wife.

The police said they had found evidence that "Netanyahu and those close to him blatantly intervened, sometimes on a daily basis, in the content published on the Walla news website, and sought to influence the appointment of senior employees (editors and reporters), while using their ties to Shaul and [his wife] Iris Elovitch."

Investigators said Netanyahu should stand trial on charges of accepting bribes, fraud and breach of trust and fraudulently accepting benefits.

They also recommended to charge Sara Netanyahu with bribery, fraud and breach of trust, and for "disruption of investigative and judicial proceedings."

This is the third such police recommendation against Netanyahu in recent months. Now, the Israeli attorney general should decide whether to bring indictments in the case.

The Israeli prime minister, however, dismissed the accusations against himself and his wife.

"These recommendations were determined and leaked even before the investigations began," he claimed in a statement. "I'm sure that in this case the relevant authorities, after examining the issue, will reach the same conclusion: that there was nothing because there is nothing."

The Israeli police have already recommended charging Netanyahu for bribery and breach of trust in Case 1000 and Case 2000.

Netanyahu is suspected of having received luxury gifts from businessmen overseas in Case 1000.

He is also suspected of negotiating favorable press coverage with Yedioth Ahronoth publisher, Arnon Mozes, in Case 2000.

The Israelis have been holding protests to demand the prime minister's resignation over the corruption scandals, but Netanyahu has described the events as part of efforts meant to topple him "at any cost."

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Putin: Russia, Saudi agreed to keep oil production low

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 09:17AM

Russia and Saudi Arabia have agreed to extend an agreement on cutting their respective oil outputs to prevent crude prices from slumping further.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday that he and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman had come to the arrangement following talks during the Group of 20 countries' summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

"Yes, we have an agreement to prolong our accords," Putin told reporters on the summit's sidelines.

"There is no final deal on volumes, but we together with Saudi Arabia will do it. And whatever is the final figure, we agreed to monitor the market situation and react to it quickly," he noted.

Russia is the most prolific oil producer outside the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), of which Saudi Arabia is the biggest producer.

Moscow has been cooperating with the body for years to engineer a rebound after the prices sank in 2014 due to oversupplying of the market.

Though steadily facing the threat of decline, the prices have almost stabilized at around $60 per barrel.

Two weeks earlier, Putin had said he favored a level of $70 per barrel for Russia. On Wednesday, however, he told an investment conference in Moscow that the current prices were "absolutely fine" for his country. He also praised bin Salman for what he described as the success of the agreement between OPEC and non-OPEC producers.

This is while the United States, which renewed its oil sanctions against major producer Iran last month, has been pressing other producers - particularly Saudi Arabia - to speed up production to stabilize the market.

The OPEC, Russia, and other big producers will meet in Vienna on December 6-7 to discuss further steps concerning the situation governing the oil market.

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Ukrainian President Pyotr Poroshenko has submitted to the parliament a bill amending the law "On endorsing the presidential decree on the declaration of martial law in Ukraine," which will make it possible to hold elections in the countrys regions where martial law has been introduced.

The bill will make it possible to "hold elections in the united territorial communities, where a special legal regime has been introduced," presidential envoy to the Verkhovna Rada Irina Lutsenko said at a meeting of the Radas conciliation board.

Rada Speaker Andrei Paruby noted that elections could be threatened in almost 40 newly-created united territorial communities following the declaration of martial law as no elections, including local ones, could be conducted under martial law.

"It was agreed during consultations that today, the Ukrainian president would submit a relevant bill, which would tackle this legal issue," TASS cited him as saying. The Rada speaker added that he expected the bill to be passed later in the week.

On November 26, Ukraines Verkhovna Rada approved Poroshenkos decree declaring a 30-say martial law in the Vinnitsa, Lugansk, Nikolayevsk, Odessa, Sumy, Kharkov, Chernigov, Donetsk, Zaporozhye and Kherson regions, as well as in Ukraines territorial waters in the Sea of Azov.Mattis blasts Putin for election meddling, Ukraine row, US pullout of nuke pact

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 01:04AM

US Defense Secretary James Mattis has blasted Russian President Vladimir Putin as untrustworthy and "a slow learner," blaming him for meddling in the latest US mid-term polls, recent seizure of Ukrainian warships in Russian waters, and even Washington's pullout of a key arms-control treaty with Moscow.

Mattis also spoke of deteriorating relationship between Putin and the administration of US President Donald Trump during a Saturday interview at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in the state California, further claiming for the first time that Russian operatives have again attempted to interfere in the American elections last month.

"There is no doubt the relationship has worsened. He (Putin) tried again to muck around in our elections this last month," Mattis insisted, adding: "We are seeing a continued effort around those lines."

The US military chief also proclaimed that the Trump administration and other members of the US-led NATO military alliance have repeatedly pressed Russia against engaging in un-democratic actions, but with no apparent success.

"This is a very complex situation because clearly Mr. Putin is a slow learner," Mattis underlined. "He is not recognizing that what he is doing is actually creating the animosity against his people."

He then insisted, "We're dealing with someone we simply cannot trust."

The remarks came after Trump had already canceled a planned meeting with Putin at the G-20 summit in Argentina this week, citing a naval dispute between Ukrainian and Russian forces on the border of Crimea, which raised fears of new hostilities in the region.

The cancellation of the meeting came the same day as the president's former lawyer, Michael Cohen, plead guilty of lying to Congress about Trump's business dealings in Russia, while agreeing to cooperate further with Robert Mueller's's special counsel investigation.

Russian officials, however, reacted strongly to Washington's purported excused for calling of the meeting, insisting on Friday that cancellation of the talks were due to Trump administration's domestic political troubles rather than the recent confrontation between Russian and Ukrainian naval forces in the Sea of Ozav.

Mattis also blasted Moscow on Saturday for what he referred to as the "brazen" violation of a treaty with Kiev and the seizure of three Ukrainian vessels, pointing to a 2003 agreement governing the Kerch Strait between Azov and Black sea.

He claimed Moscow had shown "brazen contempt and dismissal" for the deal "that allowed both Russian and Ukrainian ships free passage." The remarks reflected strongest US reaction so far over the incident off the coast of Crimea.

The Kremlin, however, has defended the capture of the Ukrainian warships and their crew by the Russian navy, insisting that the move was lawful and in strict accordance with international and domestic regulations.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the actions of the Ukrainian navy as "an invasion of Russian territorial waters" last Monday and accused the intruding vessels of illegally crossing Russia's sea border and ignoring warnings made by Russian border guards.

"The Russian side acted in strict accordance with the law, both domestic and international. This is a case of trespassing into territorial waters of the Russian Federation by foreign military vessels," Peskov said.

Moreover, Mattis went on to also blame Putin for Trump's decision in October to withdraw from the 1987 intermediate-range nuclear forces treaty (INF), saying: "We are dealing with Putin's duplicitous violation of the INF treaty."

Claiming that US remains in compliance of the agreement while Russia does not, he added: "We will re-energize our arms control efforts but the onus is on Russia."

This is while Trump declared on October 20 that his administration plans to abandon the INF, further vowing US intention to develop such nuclear weaponry.

"Russia has not adhered to the agreement. So we are going to terminate the agreement," Trump proclaimed at the time, adding: "Russia has violated the agreement. They've been violating it for many years. I don't know why president (Barack) Obama didn't negotiate or pull out. And we're not going to let them violate a nuclear agreement and go out and do weapons (while) we're not allowed to."

"We'll have to develop those weapons," he further pledged.

Trump's announcement came a day after The New York Times reported that the US Defense Department had been developing nuclear weapons to counter Chinese weapons already deployed.

According to the report, since China is not a signatory to the Washington-Moscow nuclear pact, the Trump administration decided to accuse Russia of violating the NIT.

Trump's latest withdrawal from the nuclear pact is not his first. The controversial American president also pulled out of the Obama-era nuclear deal with Iran.

The INF, which was signed in 1986 between then US president Ronald Reagan and Soviet Union President Mikhail Gorbachev, allowed the US to counter Chinese moves to build up arms in the Pacific but prevented Washington from deploying new nuclear armaments in response.

The treaty banned all land-based missiles with ranges of 310 to 3,420 miles and included missiles carrying both nuclear and conventional warheads. The original ban between Moscow and Washington led to the elimination of 2,692 missiles.

Putin reacted strongly to Trump's decision, emphasizing that Russia's response would be "very quick and effective."

Putin stressed that scrapping a global arms control system was "very dangerous," adding Russia was concerned about the fact that Washington had already withdrawn from the Anti-Ballistic Missile treaty, planned to ditch the INF, and that the future of another key arms control agreement known as the New START was not clear.

"There would be nothing left except an arms race," he said.

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U.S. Defense Chief Accuses Putin Of 'Duplicitous' Action On Missile Treaty

By RFE/RL December 02, 2018

The U.S. defense secretary strongly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of deceit involving a key Cold War-era arms control treaty, and acting recklessly in last week's naval confrontation with Ukraine.

In his comments December 1, Jim Mattis also asserted that Moscow had tried to interfere in last month's midterm congressional elections.

"We are dealing with someone that we simply cannot trust," Mattis said during a speech at the Reagan National Defense Forum in California. "There is no doubt the relationship has worsened."

Mattis was also asked how Washington could deter further Russian confrontation.

"This is a very complex situation because Mr. Putin is clearly a slow learner," Mattis said. "He is not recognizing that what he is doing is actually creating the animosity against his people. He's not acting in the best interests of the Russian people, and he is actually causing NATO to rearm."

The U.S. defense chief also made passing reference to the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces treaty, a 1987 agreement known as the INF, that Washington has accused Moscow of violating.

Moscow has denied the accusations, though last year, it did acknowledge the existence of a missile that Washington had identified, but it insisted the missile did not violate the treaty.

"We are dealing with Putin's duplicitous violation of the INF Treaty," Mattis said.

Mattis did not make reference to President Donald Trump's recent announcement that the United States would be withdrawing from the treaty.

Referring to last week's naval confrontation near the Crimean peninsula, in which Russian ships seized three Ukrainian ships and two dozen Ukrainian sailors, Mattis criticized what he called Russia's "brazen" violation of a treaty with Ukraine.

Mattis also asserted that Russia had interfered in the November midterm elections for Congress, though he gave no details nor provided any further evidence.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/mattis-russia- defense-strategy/29632828.html

Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Moscow to Resume Dialogue With US as Soon as Washington is Prepared - Lavrov

Sputnik News

15:17 02.12.2018(updated 16:22 02.12.2018)

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed disappointment over President Trump's decision to cancel their planned meeting at the G20 in Argentina, saying the two countries have much to talk about on issues including nuclear strategic stability in light of the US talk of pulling out of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty.

Russia is ready for the normalization of dialogue with the United States as soon as its American colleagues are prepared to do so, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said.

"US National Security Advisor to the president John Bolton has approached Yuri Ushakov, Assistant to the Russian President on foreign policy issues, and confirmed that the US side would like to resume and normalize dialogue," Lavrov said in an interview with Russian television.

"We are ready for this as soon as our colleagues are," Lavrov noted.

Asked whether he had met with his US counterpart Mike Pompeo at the G20 summit, which wrapped up in Buenos Aires on Saturday, Lavrov said he did not. "No, naturally, I did not chase after him. He did not approach me."

"To be honest, I don't even know if he was there or not, because I didn't see the entire US delegation," Lavrov added.

Asked when the next meeting between Putin and Trump can be expected, the Russian foreign minister said he didn't know, and that the wouldn't even venture to guess.

He added that he could not rule out that last Sunday's incident in the Kerch Strait, which saw Russia detain three Ukrainian Navy ships and two dozen sailors after they violated Russian maritime borders, may have just been a pretext to break off the anticipated Putin-Trump meeting.

"I am not a supporter of conspiracy theories and all kinds of conspirational speculation. But lately there have been too many coincidences of instances when, on the eve significant events, some kind of provocation suddently occurs, which is then immediately used to intensify sanctions rhetoric," Lavrov said.

'Dangerous US Game in Syria'

Commenting on the present situation in Syria, the Russian foreign minister accused the United States of trying to play the "Kurdish card" east of the Euphrates River, saying this "game" was very dangerous.

"Part of the [US's] actions east of the Euphrates and in other areas of Syria, where they have their special forces and advisors, is playing the 'Kurdish card'. This is a very dangerous game, given the urgency of the Kurdish issue in a number of countries in the region  not only in Syria, but also Iraq, Iran, and of course Turkey," Lavrov explained.

According to the foreign minister, it is becoming "obvious" that the Western powers involved in the Syrian conflict have no alternative constructive strategy to the one outlined by Russia, Iran and Turkey at Astana. This is evidenced by the fact that the United States has engaged in "trying to form quasi-state structures" in Kurdish-controlled territories in eastern Syria, "pouring hundreds of millions of dollars into rebuidling these areas so that people could resume normal, peaceful lives, while refusing to restore the infrastructure in territories controlled by the Syrian government," Lavrov said.

Putin-Trump Meeting No-Go

President Donald Trump unexpectedly cancelled his meeting with President Putin at the G20 in Buenos Aires on Thursday after being briefed on the Kerch Strait incident. Trump tweeted that he would put off a high-level meeting with his Russian counterpart until the "situation" surrounding the detained Ukrainian ships and sailors was "resolved." Putin expressed disappointment over Trump's decision, saying there were important "issues of strategic stability" to be discussed "in light of the president's announcement that he plans to pull the US out of the INF Treaty."

Trump announced plans to withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty in October, accusing Russia of violating its provisions. The arms control treaty, signed by the US and the USSR in 1987, prohibited the two countries from developing and fielding ground-based nuclear ballistic and cruise missiles in the 500-5,500 km range. Russia has denied claims that it has violated the treaty, and pointed to obvious violations of the treaty by Washington, including the deployment of dual-use missile defence shield components in Romania and Poland. Along with Moscow, Washington's European allies have expressed concerns over US intentions to scrap the INF.

 Sputnik

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'He's An Adult': Putin Reveals What He Told Trump During Brief Talk at G20

Sputnik News

14:31 02.12.2018(updated 14:53 02.12.2018)

Trump cancelled his meeting with the Russian president on Thursday after being briefed on the Kerch Strait incident, in which several Ukrainian Navy vessels and their crews were detained for violating Russia's maritime borders.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has revealed the content of his brief informal conversation with US President Trump at a cultural dinner in Buenos Aires for G20 summit leaders, an event which was closed off to the press.

"In a nutshell, I answered his questions about this incident in the Black Sea," Putin said, speaking to reporters at his post-summit press conference. "He has his own position, I have my own position; we each stuck to our own views, but in any case I informed him about our perspective on this incident," he added.

Earlier, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders confirmed that Putin and Trump had spoken at the dinner, but provided no further details.

In addition to Trump, Putin spoke about the Kerch incident with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who arrived late at the summit due to aeroplane troubles. "The president gave an exhaustive explanation of the Black Sea border incident, illustrating it clearly. He even drew a map," Kremlin Press Secretary Dmitri Peskov said, recalling Putin's Saturday breakfast discussion with Merkel.

Trump cancelled his much-anticipated meeting with Putin at the last minute, tweeting the cancellation a little more than an hour after saying that the conversation was still on, and adding that the cancellation was related to the fact that Russia hasn't returned the Ukrainian ships and sailors detained following the Kerch Strait incident.

Putin expressed his disappointment with Trump's decision. "It's a pity we could not have a full-fledged meeting, because I believe it is long overdue. I'm talking about issues of strategic stability in light of the president's announcement that he plans to pull the US out of the INF Treaty," Putin said.

Putin emphasised that he remains ready to meet with Trump "when the US side is ready for this", adding that he didn't believe the US president cancelled the G20 meeting over fears that he faced the prospect of new attacks from his Democratic opponents over allegations of ties to Russia. "I don't think that President Trump is afraid of something. He's a very experienced person, an adult, so this is certainly not true," Putin said.

A day before the summit, Trump lawyer Michael Cohen admitted to lying to Congress about Trump's suspected business ties in Russia during the 2016 presidential race, fuelling new allegations in the Russiagate saga; the president is accused of having 'colluded' with Russia during his presidential campaign.

Russia detained three Ukrainian Navy vessels and their 24 crew members last Sunday after the ships violated Russia's maritime borders and engaged in dangerous manoeuvres around the Kerch Strait between Crimea and the Russian mainland, which are connected by 19 km bridge which was completed earlier this year.

Speaking about the incident at his Saturday press conference, Putin reiterated his view that the incident was a "planned provocation," adding that this has been made evident by the captured documents and testimony of the detained sailors, which showed that the ships had planned to slip through the Kerch Strait undetected. Putin also emphasised that the incident, and the resulting introduction of martial law in ten of Ukraine's constituent regions, was related to President Petro Poroshenko's extremely low approval ratings ahead of presidential elections next spring.

 Sputnik

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US Defence Sec Calls Putin 'Slow Learner', Alleges Recent Election Meddling

Sputnik News

11:24 02.12.2018(updated 13:03 02.12.2018)

American politicians, including Donald Trump, voiced concerns prior to November that Russia would try to meddle in the US congressional elections. Although US intelligence agencies said there was no evidence of Russia's attempts to influence the outcome of the midterms, the Secretary of Defence shared some "inside" information.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis branded Russian President Putin as untrustworthy and a "slow learner" over what he called Moscow's repeated attempts to "muck around" in US domestic affairs.

"This is a very complex situation because Mr. Putin is clearly a slow learner," Mattis said at a defence forum in California on Saturday, commenting on alleged Russian aggression.

"He is not recognising that what he is doing is actually creating the animosity against his people. He is not acting in the best interest of the Russian people."

The 68-year-old Mattis chastised the Russian president as someone the United States "simply cannot trust," claiming that his actions were leading the NATO alliance to boost its capacities.

He also claimed that Vladimir Putin was "ripping up international agreements", including a treaty with Kiev, in a nod to the seizure of three Ukrainian Navy vessels that violated Russia's territorial waters last week.

Mattis said he did not know if the "Russian threat" had grown, but nevertheless accused the Russian leader of "continued efforts to try to subvert democratic processes that must be defended".

He noted, without elaborating, that Putin had attempted to "muck around" in the US midterms last month, and that Washington was "seeing a continued effort along those lines".

Ahead of the midterms, US intelligence agencies jointly expressed their concerns about what they believed to be efforts by Russia and China to influence US voters and policies. However, the heads of the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice, the FBI and the Director of National Intelligence said in a joint statement on election day that there was no indication that the election infrastructure had been compromised.

The 'Russian meddling' narrative has been dominating the US media ever since the 2016 presidential campaign, when Moscow was accused of hacking the Democrats in a bid to sway public opinion toward then-Republican candidate Donald Trump. The FBI launched an investigation into the Trump campaign's purported collusion with the Kremlin, which he vehemently denied. Moscow also repeatedly dismissed the accusations as groundless and absurd.

 Sputnik

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Erdogan: We 'Cannot Be Satisfied' With Riyadh's Khashoggi Case Explanations

Sputnik News

03:21 02.12.2018(updated 03:24 02.12.2018)

ANKARA (Sputnik) - Ankara is dissatisfied with Riyadh's explanations in connection with the murderer of prominent Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday.

"We regard it as a despicable murder. Unfortunately, Saudi Arabia does not support us. At first, there was a lie that he [Khashoggi] left the consulate. [However] there is evidence that he was killed: there is a seven-minute audio recording, we shared it with the world. Turkey handed it to the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom  all those who wanted. We cannot be satisfied with the explanations we have got," Erdogan told reporters on the sidelines of the G20 summit, as aired by the NTV broadcaster.

Turkey insists that Saudi Arabia should extradite those responsible for the murder, Erdogan reiterated.

"But this is not only the case of Turkey, but of the whole world. We still haven't received any information from the Saudi side about the assassins' accomplices. They must reveal it," he stressed.

Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist known for his criticism of Saudi policies, disappeared on October 2 after entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Saudi Arabia's acknowledgement that the journalist had been killed in a fight inside the consulate came after two weeks of denials and growing pressure from Western allies to provide explanations.

On October 26, the Saudi prosecutor general acknowledged that the journalist's murder was premeditated. However, Riyadh maintains that the killing had nothing to do with the Saudi Royal family, describing it as a rogue operation.

 Sputnik

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US-led coalition attacks Syrian Army in Homs province

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 11:24PM

Syria says the United States-led coalition alleging to be fighting Takfiri terrorists in the Arab country has attacked the positions of the country's army in a central province.

"A military source said on Sunday that at around 8 PM, the US-led alliance forces fired several rockets at army positions in al-Ghurab mountain south of al-Sekhneh, causing only material damage," the official Syrian Arab News Agency reported, citing a military source. The area is located in Homs province.

According to a so-called monitoring group, the coalition forces at a US military base in al-Tanf region fired "more than 14 missiles" at a Syrian army convoy as it was passing through the desert in the far east of Homs province.

"The group was lost in the middle of the desert around 35 kilometers from the al-Tanf base," the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights told AFP.

The coalition invaded Syria without a United Nations mandate in 2014 under the pretext of defeating the Takfiri terror group of Daesh. It sustains its operations although Syria and its allies defeated the outfit late last year.

In September, the a monitor said US airstrikes had killed 3,331 civilians in Syria since they began.

In April, the US, the UK, and France launched a joint missile offensive against a research center in the town of Douma near the Syrian capital. The incursion came after the allies blamed Damascus for a "chemical attack" in the city's countryside.

A year earlier, a suspected sarin gas attack hit the town of Khan Shaykhun in the northwestern Syrian province of Idlib, killing more than 80 people. The Western countries rushed to blame the incident on Damascus, with the US launching a missile attack against Shayrat Airbase in Homs three days later.

The countries have been backing so-called aid workers, known as the White Helmets, which Syria and Russia, a Damascus ally, blame for staging chemical attacks inside the Arab country to help justify such military actions.

Syria turned over its entire chemical stockpile under a deal negotiated by Russia and the United States back in 2013.

Israel, the US' closest regional ally, has also been providing refuge and medical treatment to the Takfiri terrorists fleeing the Syrian Army's operations. The regime regularly launches aerial attacks against Syrian military targets and the supplies intended for Damascus-allied anti-terror fighters.

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US-led coalition strikes in Syria's Dayr al-Zawr kill 206 civilians in November: Monitor

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 02:12PM

A so-called monitoring group says more than two hundred civilians lost their lives as the US-led coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group carried out airstrikes on Syria's troubled eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr in November.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that as many as 206 civilians were killed in the air raids last month.

There were 77 people under the age of 18 among the fatalities in addition to 57 female victims.

The US-led air raids also resulted in the injury of hundreds of civilians, some of whom suffered permanent disabilities and had to have their limbs amputated.

Local sources told Syria's official news agency, SANA, on Friday that US-led coalition fighter jets had targeted residential buildings in al-Shaafah town of Dayr al-Zawr province, leaving at least 30 people dead.

The development came only a few days after US-led coalition fighter jets bombarded the village of Abu Hassan, which lies close to the town of Hajin. Several civilians, mostly women and children, were killed and injured as a result.

On November 13, the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates condemned a recent airstrike by the so-called US-led coalition against the eastern town of al-Shaafah, which left more than 60 people dead and injured, arguing that the massacre clearly pointed to the fact that members of the military alliance had no respect for moral values, international rules and regulations besides the lives of innocent civilians.

The ministry, in two separate letters, addressed to United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres and the former rotating president of the UN Security Council Ma Zhaoxu, called on the Security Council to fulfill its responsibilities and stop US-led aerial assaults.

It also asked the world body to propose an international, independent and impartial mechanism to investigate the crimes being perpetrated by the so-called US-led coalition.

The letters noted that the coalition was deliberately targeting Syria civilians and making use of internationally banned weapons, including white phosphorus bombs, in Syria.

The ministry stressed that the so-called US-led coalition airstrikes were meant to kill as many Syrian people as possible, prolong the ongoing Syrian conflict, destroy the country's infrastructure and undermine its sovereignty and territorial integrity in flagrant violation of all UN Security Council resolutions on Syria.

The letters concluded that the embarrassing silence of the Security Council had encouraged the coalition to kill more Syrian civilians and destroy their property.

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Russia expands air defense network in Syria to US dismay: Report

Iran Press TV

Sun Dec 2, 2018 09:04AM

Russia has reportedly completed an advanced anti-access/area denial network in Syria, posing a challenge to US military presence in the Arab country and the Eastern Mediterranean Sea.

The Washington-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said in new report that in 2015, Russia began to establish a partial independent air defense network in Syria to protect its military assets at the Hmeimim Airbase and Tartus Naval Facility on the Mediterranean Coast.

Since then, the report said, Moscow has deployed S-300 and S-400 missile defense systems as well as four unique electronic warfare systems to Syria.

It also stationed at least one advanced 1L122-1E targeting radar and Barnaul-T mobile command-and-control system for short-range air defense systems in the war-torn state, the report added.

The report further noted that Russia opted to expand its air defense network in Syria following the April 14 western missile strike on Syria and the September 17 accidental downing of an Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft in the country.

"Russia has finished an advanced anti-access/area denial (A2AD) network in Syria that combines its own air defense and electronic warfare systems with modernized equipment formerly commanded by Syria. Russia can use these capabilities to mount a long-term strategic challenge the US and NATO in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea and the Middle East," the ISW report said.

It also stressed that recent deployments to Syria "significantly widen the geographic reach of Russia's air defense network" there.

Russian jets have been targeting positions held by terror outfits inside Syria at the Damascus government's request since September 2015. The airstrikes have helped Syrian forces advance against the militants, who have been wreaking havoc in the Arab country since 2011.

Elsewhere, the report said that Russia's expanded presence in Syria is meant to force American troops' pullout while disrupting a bombing campaign by the US and its allies against alleged Daesh positions inside the country.

"Russia is currently positioned to disrupt US' anti-ISIS Coalition and constrain future military options for the US in Syria," it said.

"Russia ultimately aims to use its technical capabilities as part of its wider campaign to force the withdrawal of the US anti-ISIS (Daesh) coalition from Syria. Russia can use these systems to decrease the overall freedom of maneuver - and increase the overall risk - faced by the US in Syria."

The report further said that Russia's air defense network in Syria would increase the cost of future airstrikes by Israel on the Syrian soil.

"The US and Israel both must be prepared to suppress a larger number of air defense systems and use more expensive stealth aircraft such as the F-35 in Syria. Russia stands to gain a long-term strategic advantage over NATO through its new capabilities in Syria. The US and NATO must now account for the risk of a dangerous escalation in the Middle East amidst any confrontation with Russia in Eastern Europe," it added.

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US-Led Coalition Strikes Syrian Positions, Syrian Military Source Says - Reports

Sputnik News

23:56 02.12.2018(updated 00:35 03.12.2018)

A source from Syrian military reported that the US-led coalition attacked Syrian army positions in country's east, Syrian media reported.

A Syrian military source reported that the US-led coalition fired several missiles at Syrian positions and caused limited materiel damage, Syrian SANA news agency reported. The missiles hit the positions south of Al-Sukhnah in eastern Syria, the source told the agency.

"Forces of the US-led coalition fired several missiles toward the positions of our units in the area of Al-Ghurab mount, to the south of the city of Al-Sukhnah at around 8:00 p.m. [18:00 GMT]," the source told the Al-Ikhbariya television channel.

Previous month, Syrian state television reported that over 30 civilians had been killed as a result of a US-led coalition airstrike on a village in the Deir ez-Zor province, which came just two days after Syrian media accused the US-led coalition of killing at least 6 civilians in the town of Hajin in the same area.

Syrian government has repeatedly accused the US-led coalition of causing civilian casualties while conducting aerial operations in Syria.

The US-led coalition of more than 70 countries is conducting counter-terror military operations in Syria and Iraq. The coalition's operations in Iraq are conducted in cooperation with the Iraqi government, but those in Syria are neither authorized by the government of President Bashar Assad nor the UN Security Council.

 Sputnik

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'The Paris archive (1919-1940) by Alimardan Topchibashi will be presented at ADA University in Baku on December 4.

Four books contain documents and materials concerning last years of Topchibashi's life and activities of his successors in 1935-1940, when radical changes occurred in the life of Caucasian migrants in Europe due to non-aggression pact between France and the USSR and accession of the USSR to the League of Nations.

Documents on the Azerbaijani delegation's work in Paris in 1935-1940 were preserved thanks to Alimardan Topchibashi's son, Alekper Topchibashi, who became secretary of the delegation in 1936. He preserved his father's archive, including copies of all his letters, notes, memorandums, which wrote using both his own name and aliases. These documents are an important source on history of the national liberation movement of Azerbaijan and Caucasus in general during this period.

Alimardan Topchibashi was the Speaker of the Parliament of Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, the first deputy of the Russian State Duma, an Azerbaijani politician and diplomat. After the February Revolution of 1917 he led the Azerbaijan National Committee.

After the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was proclaimed, he became the ambassador to Armenia, Georgia and the Ottoman Empire, and later became the minister of foreign affairs. He headed the delegation of the Republic at the Paris Peace Conference. But after the Bolshevik takeover of Azerbaijan Democratic Republic he decide to stay in Paris, where he died on November 8, 1934.

The book was published by the Moscow publishing house Khudozhestvennaya Literatura with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation.Russian Military Deliver Humanitarian Aid to Syrian Soldiers in Aleppo - MoD

Sputnik News

10:17 02.12.2018

DAMASCUS (Sputnik) - Russian military from the Russian Defense Ministry's Center for Syrian Reconciliation have delivered humanitarian aid to injured Syrian soldiers at a military hospital in Aleppo and their families, the center's spokesman, Maj. Gen. Sergei Popov, told reporters on Sunday.

"We gave wheelchairs and warm clothes to the Syrian army soldiers who suffered injuries during the armed conflict [in Syria] as well as their relatives. A total of 25 sets have been delivered," the spokesman told reporters.

Popov also told medics working at the hospital that the reconciliation center and Russian charity foundations would continue to provide humanitarian aid both to injured Syrian soldiers and their families.

Representatives of the Syrian Armed Forces command and the medics thanked the Russian military for paying attention to the injured soldier's problems and for the provided aid.

The Russian side has been assisting Syria throughout the war, providing military and humanitarian aid and brokering ceasefire agreements. Damascus has already won back vast territories that had fallen into the hands terrorists and rebels during the war, and the armed conflict itself seems to be nearing its end, which prompted Syria to start the reconstruction process and the repatriation of refugees.

 Sputnik

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Putin Says He And Trump Briefly Discussed Ukraine Naval Confrontation

By RFE/RL December 02, 2018

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that he and U.S. President Donald Trump briefly discussed the recent naval confrontation in the Black Sea between Ukrainian and Russian naval ships.

Putin gave few details of the conversation, which happened December 1 on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit in Argentina.

"We spoke in passing. I replied to his questions about the incident in the Black Sea," Putin was quoted as saying.

"He has his position, I have mine," Putin said, adding that neither had changed as a result of the exchange.

The White House confirmed that Trump and Putin spoke during a dinner with world leaders at the G20 summit.

"As is typical at multilateral events, President Trump and the first lady had a number of informal conversations with world leaders at the dinner last night, including President Putin," White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in a December 1 statement.

On the eve of the summit, Trump announced that he would not hold a formal one-on-one meeting with Putin, citing last week's clash in the Kerch Strait, in which Russia detained three Ukrainian ships and 24 sailors.

The November 25 incident was the first direct military confrontation between the two countries since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014.

Speaking to reporters, Putin lamented the lack of a formal meeting.

"It is unfortunate that we can't hold a full-format meeting," Putin was quoted as saying. "I think it is very much needed, in connection with issues of strategic stability, especially after [Trump] announced that the United States plans to withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty."

Trump announced last month that he was withdrawing the United States from the 31-year-old treaty, which eliminated an entire class of missiles and is considered a cornerstone of strategic stability between Moscow and Washington.

Meanwhile, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters on December 2 that he hoped it would be possible for the two leaders to meet properly before too long.

"Of course a new meeting is possible," Ushakov said.

"Now we need to again have talks about preparing such a meeting."

When asked where that meeting might happen, Ushakov cited a G20 summit in Osaka Japan in June next year as one option.

"But it seems to me that it's very important for us and for them to find a way of meeting before then," he said.

Based on reporting by TASS, AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/putin-trump-ukraine- argentina/29632830.html

Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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JEEP head of design Mark Allen says the SUV brand will maintain distinct looks for each of its model lines in the future and rejected the possibility of any more retro looking models.

The Wrangler  the design of which harks back to the original Willys Jeeps of the 1940s  is the only model that features true retro-influenced styling, while the Renegade is clearly influenced by its larger sibling. All of Jeeps other models feature modern styling.

Speaking to GoAuto at last weeks Los Angeles motor show following the reveal of the Jeep Gladiator, Mr Allen said while he could not comment on future product, he would ensure each model has an individual flavour.

I have two categories when I talk about Jeep, he said. We have the Wrangler side of the family  clearly Renegade is part of that family. Most everything else is from the Grand Cherokee side of the family. More refined, a little bit more muscular. I am glad I have both of those.

I dont subscribe to the Audi Russian doll small/medium/large (design strategy). At some point they just get blurry to me. I have always (pushed) a strong case that I want them all to look a bit different to each other and I have been supported on that so thats good.

Mr Allen said he would not pursue retro design themes for any of its future models.

There is a lot of pressure from people to do more retro, especially as we go up but Im not going to do that. This (Wrangler) is retro enough. Its not really retro because it never went away.

Mr Allen said Jeep experimented with more radical designs for the new-generation Wrangler SUV that arrives in Australia in the first half of 2019, but ultimately decided to retain the familiar look of its most iconic model.

I call it coming up with thee wrong answers to prove the right answer is right. We did sketches that scared us. In the end, we could go there, but it is not who we are.

(Porsche) 911 hasnt strayed. Weve never strayed. We have kept up and our sales just keep getting stronger and stronger.

There may be a time when that needs to happen but thats not now and we were proven right. Theres no need to.

Mr Allen said there were opportunities to expand the Jeep line-up beyond its current global offerings that includes the Renegade, Compass, Cherokee, Wrangler, Grand Cherokee and now the Gladiator.

Youll see movement from us above Grand Cherokee, we are topped out at Grand Cherokee. There is obviously room above that.

The switch from car to SUV seems like it happened overnight but it has been a 20-year thing. They crossed over in 2014 and we are on a tear because all we make is SUVs, but we have to move (above) Grand Cherokee.

Actually I think there is room for us at the bottom too. Not so much in this market (USA), but we are such a worldwide brand  the last seven years theres been rapid expansion. We could do a lot of things. SUVs are red hot  thats who we are.

The so-called Jeep Grand Wagoneer three-row upper-large SUV has been in the works since 2011 when then head of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Sergio Marchionne  who passed away in July this year  confirmed its development to Automotive News.

Seven years later there is still no flagship SUV and the latest reports suggest it wont be seen until 2020 or 2021. It is likely to share its underpinnings with the next-generation Grand Cherokee five-seater.

Jeep introduced the Grand Commander seven-seat SUV ahead of this years Beijing motor show, but that model is a China-only proposition.

Meanwhile, former head of Jeep brand and now FCA CEO Mike Manley told GoAuto at this years Detroit motor show that there was space for a new small SUV to sit below the Compass and Renegade.

Not necessarily here in North America, but if I look at European markets and other international markets, you can see that a smaller vehicle is developing and that is something we are looking very closely at right now.

The Road to Recovery podcast seriesQatar is withdrawing from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) early next year, Qatar's energy minister Saad al-Kaabi said.

Speaking at a news conference, al-Kaabi said the country would withdraw from OPEC on January 1, 2019, ending a membership which has stood for more than half-a-century.

Al-Kaabi said that the move represents a "technical and strategic" change, and was not politically motivated, Reuters reported.

Qatar's energy minister added that the decision was not linked to the 18-month political and economic boycott of Doha.

The decision comes after Qatar reviewed ways in which it could improve its global standing and plan its long-term strategy.

While Qatar is one of OPEC's smallest oil producers, especially when compared to the likes of de facto leader Saudi Arabia, it is one of the world's largest producers of liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Since June 2017, OPEC kingpin Saudi Arabia  along with three other Arab states  has cut trade and transport ties with Qatar, accusing the country of supporting terrorism and their regional rival, Iran. Qatar denies the claims, saying the boycott hampers its sovereignty.

The Middle East-dominated group's final meeting of the calendar year in December is now expected to be Qatar's last.

A leading analyst of the National Energy Security Fund, a lecturer at the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Igor Yushkov, speaking to Vestnik Kavkaza, said that Qatar's decision is political in the first place.and linked to its prolonged conflict with Saudi Arabia. "It's not really related to economics, because Qatar's role in the oil market is not big - it's one of the world's largest producers of liquefied natural gas, but it doesn't produce or export much oil. 80 million tons of annual production, of which 13 million tons are consumed, is a very small amount. Qatars withdrawal from OPEC does not mean that the country will dramatically increase production volumes - it does not have such opportunities. Qatar simply demonstrates Saudi Arabia that Riyadh has no power over it," he explained.

"Thus, Qatars withdrawal from OPEC mean neither a significant increase in supply on the world market, nor the prospects for an avalanche-like collapse of the cartel.Other countries perfectly understand that it will lead to an uncontrolled increase in oil production, which will a collapse of oil prices, which would be very bad. Disadvantages of OPEC collapse outweigh advantages of free navigation, and only states with minor amounts of oil production can afford such a move," Igor Yushkov said.

The executive vice-president of NewTech Services, professor of the Gubkin Russian State University of Oil and Gas, Valery Bessel, also pointed to the irrelevance of Qatar's withdrawal from OPEC. "Qatar's oil production is incomparable with the level of the cartel's main participants. Rather, it's an attempt to untie its hands in terms of oil trade, perhaps they want to increase their quota for China due to the sanctions restrictions imposed on Iran," he said.

"This news should not be taken too seriously, as the cartel's agreements are not legally binding. The 2016-2017 agreement reduced total oil production at OPEC by only 27 million tons per year, which is insignificant in terms of global oil production at 4 billion tons of oil per year. It was just an informational occasion, which caused an increase in oil prices. And now we are also dealing with an informational occasion, which affects oil prices, albeit insignificantly, because the main trend is still the supply-demand ratio. Oil prices are at a very comfortable level for all of $60-70%, just as we expected," Valery Bessel concluded.It is Russia, not Ukraine, that protects Europe from barbarism, militarism and aggression, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said, commenting on Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenkos allegations that Russia is planning to seize Mariupol and Berdyansk.

"After Poroshenko said that Russia is allegedly planning to seize Mariupol and Berdyansk, I can say, putting his own pronouncements in other words, that it is Russia that protects Europe from barbarism, tyranny, terrorism, aggression and militarism looming large over our continent," she wrote on her Facebook account.

"It is due to the current Kiev regime that the present-day Ukraine is characterized by the frenzy of extremists and paramilitary groups, warfare against own people, propaganda and manipulation as a key tool of governance, provocations as a foreign policy concept, rampant corruption, intimidation of journalists and overall control over the mass media, nationalism as a national idea, dictation of law enforcement agencies, the lack of mechanisms of public control, and erosion of power institutions," TASS cited her as saying.

According to Zakharova, Germanys former foreign minister, Sigmar Gabriel, was absolutely right when he said in an interview with the N-TV channel that his country must spare no effort not to let Ukraine drag it into a war.

Ukrainian President Pyotr Poroshenko said on the occasion of Europe Day on May 21, 2016 that Ukraine had a special mission to protect its Western neighbors from Russias aggression, barbarism and militarism.Ford will begin commercial trials of the plug-in hybrid Transit Van in Cologne, Germany. This will extend to a third European city research into the use of plug-in hybrid electric vans that run solely on electric power for most city trips.





From spring 2019, Ford, supported by the City of Cologne, will operate a fleet of 10 Ford Transit Custom PHEVs with regional companies in the city to investigate the extent to which PHEVs can help to achieve urban air quality goals.

Funded by Ford, the trial will initially run for 12 months, in cooperation with municipal fleets serving the public sector, complementing testing in London, UK and Valencia, Spain with larger fleets and small-to-medium fleets respectively.

Ford recognizes Cologne as a city of strategic importance regarding future mobility. Together with the City of Cologne, we will start to investigate how we might in future look forward to urban areas that offer better air quality and can also be more productive. Gunnar Herrmann, chairman of the management board, Ford of Germany

Ford announced the new trial at its City of Tomorrow symposium, in Cologne, which brought together thought leaders from the private and public sector, including urban planners, political decision makers and mobility experts, to discuss a common vision of the future of urban mobility.

Two Transit Custom PHEV commercial vehicles each will be operated by the following regional companies: AWB Abfallwirtschaftsbetriebe Koln (waste management), Cologne Bonn Airport, Hafen und Guterverkehr Koln (harbour and freight traffic), Kolner Verkehrsbetriebe (public transport association) and RheinEnergie (regional energy company).

The Transit Custom PHEV has an advanced series hybrid system that targets a zero-emission range exceeding 50 kilometers (31 miles). This makes it suited for the use in city traffic. The range extender powertrain features the multi-award winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost gasoline engine that charges the on-board compact liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack as required to offer a total range of up to 500 kilometers (310 miles).

The batteries have a storage capacity of 14 kWh and the installation of the battery pack under the load floor preserves the full cargo volume of the standard van. The front bumper offers a connection facility to fully charge the battery within three hours via a 240-volt power supply with 16 or 32 amperes.

All partners will use an already existing charging infrastructure and vehicles are equipped with telematics and geofencing systems that help to ensure that they are emission-free within predetermined low emission zones.

Ford is the N 1 selling commercial vehicle brand in Europe, and last month Ford commercial vehicle sales in its European 20 markets hit their highest October level since 1993. At the IAA Commercial Vehicles in Hannover, in Germany, in September, Ford showcased a production version of the Transit Custom PHEV that is due to go on sale in the second half of 2019.

Ford plans the introduction of another 40 electrified models, including 16 allelectric vehicles through 2022.Utilizing Velodyne lidar sensors, ThorDrive, an autonomous vehicle (AV) startup, is introducing commercial vehicle services in the first of many pilots.

The initial service, in partnership with Hassett ACE Hardware, will support select residents of Channing House (senior housing) and fire departments in Palo Alto, California with plans to expand to additional pilots soon. The ThorDrive platform is using Velodynes lidar sensors to provide rich data content for its AV software.

The ThorDrive platform has been designed to provide the highly accurate sensor fusion, high-precision localization, and detailed path planning needed to operate in dense urban environments. It can build maps for hyperlocal areas, such as private parking lots. The platform has been demonstrated to support proof-of-concept tests quickly and cost effectively.

ThorDrive has been using Velodyne lidar sensors in developing its autonomous driving technology since 2010. The company retrofits Ford vans with its AV technology and they will be deployed as a fleet of autonomous vehicles across the United States, addressing commercial and logistics markets.

ThorDrive, based in Silicon Valley, has been developing autonomous driving technology since 2010, and was established as a company in 2017.Spain's political establishment suffered another significant crack on Sunday as the far-right group Vox won its first ever representation in a regional election in Andalusia, carving off voters who were targeted by the center-right People's Party.

Vox won 12 seats in the 109-seat regional assembly, a stronghold for Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialists for the past 36 years. The Socialists' grip on Andalusia was hanging by a thread after slumping to 33 seats from 47 in 2015. The PP dropped to 26 seats from 33 last time around.

Three years after a watershed election ended the two-party system that has steered Spain since the return to democracy in 1978, the political landscape is getting even more tangled.

One constant in Spanish politics over the four decades since the end of the dictatorship has been the ability of the PP and its predecessors to prevent the emergence of a rival on its right. That run is now over, posing an unprecedented challenge to the party as it looks toward possible national elections in 2019 under an untested leader in 37-year-old Pablo Casado.

Vox policies include calling for the immediate suspension of self-government in Catalonia, closing the Senate, controlling immigration and slashing taxes. Its leaders have met with U.S. President Donald Trump's former strategist Steve Bannon.

The result in Andalusia won praise from French far-right leader Marine Le Pen, who is looking to form loose alliance for next year's European elections with figures such as Italian Deputy Premier Matteo Salvini and Viktor Orban, the Hungarian prime minister.

"The first impression is the size of the defeat for the Socialists," said Antonio Barroso, a political risk analyst at advisory firm Teneo Intelligence. "Even so, it may provide them with a rallying cry and I am sure they will try to use that."

But if the Andalusian vote dealt a blow to the Socialists, it also presents a challenge for the PP, even if ironically the result may hand them the keys to power in the region, said Barroso. "It's a very bad result for the PP in terms of numbers," he said. "A new challenger for their votes is emerging."

Sanchez has conceded he may be forced to call snap elections next year if he can't corral the votes he needs to pass his budget for 2019. After winning a no-confidence vote to oust the PP from office in June, Sanchez still needs to seal voting pacts with regional nationalist parties in Catalonia and the Basque country to get his spending plan passed.

Sunday's result suggests he may go into that election as the first Socialist candidate in a generation not to control Andalusia. Vox, the PP and Ciudadanos won an absolute majority of 59 deputies between them, though the politics of actually sealing a pact to take control of the region remain treacherous.

"We are going to throw the Socialists out of the government of Andalusia," Albert Rivera, the leader of Ciudadanos, said.

At national level, the result in Andalusia may help persuade Sanchez to try to hold off calling elections, Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, a former Socialist prime minister, said. "The normal thing is try to work with the perspective of having the maximum time possible," Zapatero said in an interview with broadcaster Antena 3.

Even so, the setback in Andalusia still may not change Sanchez's thinking about when to call elections at national level because his inability to pass legislation remains a problem that will continue to sap his authority, said Barroso.

"Sanchez is caught between a rock and a hard place," he said.

Socialists won 33 seats with 28 percent of votes, from 47 seats in 2015.Roger Stone, a longtime adviser to President Donald Trump, said Sunday that he has never been in touch with Julian Assange, the founder of the anti-secrecy group WikiLeaks, which released hacked Democratic emails during the 2016 campaign.

"That is absolutely correct," Stone said on ABC News' "This Week" when asked whether it was true that he had never spoken with Assange. "I turned over one direct message to the House Intelligence Committee between the flack for WikiLeaks and I, in which he essentially brushed me off. That immediately leaked to Atlantic magazine, who then edited the context and published it. No, I had no contact with Assange."

Stone also said that he has had no contact with special counsel Robert Mueller III, who is investigating Russian interference in the 2016 campaign.

"Again, where is the crime?" Stone said, when asked by host George Stephanopoulos whether the fact that he has not been contacted by Mueller's team suggests that he may be a target of the probe. "I engaged in politics. My purpose was to take a tip which I thought to be solid, and then after that to follow the WikiLeaks Twitter feed and set a Google news alert for Julian Assange and use Twitter to hype as much voter and media attention to the disclosures when they came as politics."

"You were in this business once," he told Stephanopoulos, a former aide to President Bill Clinton. "That's called politics."

A draft special counsel document revealed last month indicates that prosecutors are closely scrutinizing Trump's interactions with Stone, as Stone was allegedly seeking information about WikiLeaks' plans to release the hacked Democratic emails. Trump ally Jerome Corsi allegedly told Stone about WikiLeaks' plans to release the emails in October 2016 because he knew Stone was in "regular contact" with Trump.

In Sunday's interview, Stone said that he has had no discussions with Trump regarding a pardon for either himself or for former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort. He added that there is "no circumstance" under which he would testify against Trump, "because I'd have to bear false witness against him."

Stone also disputed his "dirty trickster" reputation.

"The characterization of me as a 'dirty trickster' comes from Democrats. It will probably be on my epitaph," he said. "I've never done anything in politics that was outside the norms of my colleagues and my contemporaries. And I've always made it clear that so-called dirty tricks come up to - but do not cross - the line into illegality."

Asked later on "This Week" whether he found Stone's statements credible, Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., the incoming chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, responded, "No, I didn't. Not at all."

On CNN's "State of the Union," Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, said the news of potential ties between WikiLeaks and Stone is "a chapter where I think Mueller has a lot to reveal."

Asked by host Jake Tapper whether there may be evidence that Stone or other Trump associates coordinated with WikiLeaks, Warner said the Intelligence Committee has not had a chance yet to interview Stone. He added that "I think most of America wants to hear the results of those interviews" that Mueller has carried out.

----

The Washington Post's Paige Cunningham, Carol D. Leonnig and Josh Dawsey contributed to this report.ISLAMABAD, Pakistan - Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said Monday that he had received a letter from President Donald Trump, asking for his government's help and cooperation in advancing peace talks with the Afghan Taliban insurgents.

Both the Foreign Ministry and Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry confirmed that the letter had been received. Chaudhry said the U.S. president had told Khan that relations with Pakistan were "very important" to solving the Afghan conflict, especially in helping to bring the insurgents to the negotiating table.

The letter, which has not been publicly confirmed by U.S. officials, would be the first direct communication between Trump and Khan since he took office as prime minister in August. The two leaders did, however, post an angry exchange of tweets two weeks ago after Trump told Fox News he had cut aid to Pakistan because it would "take our money and do nothing for us."

The reported request from Trump came as his special envoy for Afghan peace, Zalmay Khalilzad, was expected to arrive in Pakistan Tuesday for further talks on the issue. His previous visits have been received cordially but not resulted in any concrete agreements.

The Trump administration is eager for the peace talks to move forward and the conflict to end after 17 years. Khalilzad has met with Taliban leaders and a variety of regional officials over the past several months, but there has been no breakthrough. The insurgents continue to insist that foreign forces must leave the country under any deal, and that they will only negotiate with U.S. officials.

Trump has made numerous critical comments about Pakistan in the past, some of them sarcastic in tone, and he suspended military aid last year to the longtime U.S. security ally, saying it had not done enough to rein in a branch of the Taliban insurgents, known as the Haqqani network, who U.S. officials believe shelters inside the Pakistani border with Afghanistan.

In the recent series of tweets, Trump complained that the United States had given hundreds of millions of dollars to Pakistan, but officials there had "never informed us" that Osama bin Laden, the al-Qaeda leader, was living there in a city near a major Pakistan army facility. Bin Laden was killed in a raid there by U.S. Navy SEALs in 2011.

Khan, in turn, retorted angrily in a tweet that the "record needs to be put straight on Mr. Trump's tirade against Pakistan." He said his country had suffered more than 75,000 casualties in the war on terror and had agreed to cooperate with the United States in that effort, even though "no Pakistani was involved" in the attacks of Sep. 11, 2011.

"Instead of "making Pakistan a scapegoat for their failures," Khan tweeted, the United States should undertake a "serious assessment" of why, after a war involving hundreds of thousands of NATO and Afghan troops and more than $1 trillion in costs, "the Taliban today are stronger than ever before."

On Monday, the message reportedly sent by Trump was far more diplomatic and polite, and it couched Pakistan's role as potentially constructive and helpful in ending the Afghan war, rather than as part of the problem. Pakistani officials, in turn, welcomed the letter.

"Since Pakistan has always advocated a political settlement to end war in Afghanistan, the U.S. decision is welcomed," said a statement from the Foreign Ministry. "Pakistan reiterates its commitment to play a facilitation role in good faith. Peace and stability in Afghanistan remains a shared responsibility."

The statement said Trump "has also acknowledged that the war had cost both USA and Pakistan. He has emphasized that Pakistan and USA should explore opportunities to work together and renew partnership."Samsung has commenced production of its Galaxy M series smartphones in India with market launch expected to come in early 2019.

The information has reportedly been relayed by industry insiders and according to them the Galaxy M10, M20 and M30 will be assembled in Samsung's factory in Noida.

The Samsung Galaxy M line is said to replace the old Galaxy J and Galaxy On series and will come with ample storage options. The Galaxy M10 will use Samsung's own Exynos 7870 with 3GB of RAM (as per Geekbench) and there's even a rumor that some (if not all) of the Galaxy M phones will have notches. What kind of notch is not clear - it could be an old-fashioned notch or one of Samsung's new Infinity-V, Infinity-U or Infinity-O screens.

SourceXiaomi introduced the Mi Mix 3 slider with a ceramic back and promised a global arrival, but not before it gets beta testers to clear out any bugs. The company relaunched today its Global Mi Explorer Program, which is aiming to recruit 25 people across the globe to test the newest Mi Mix 3.

To be part of the program, you have to be a registered member of the Mi community. Then you should just follow the link provided in Source below. The company has prepared series of missions specially designed for Mi Explorers, and then select the lucky 25 participants. Application are accepted until Sunday, and all qualified applicants should receive an email by December 10.

While the company is gathering its fans, it also launched an update to its Mi Mix 3 devices in China. The latest package with version number MIUI 10.0.12.0 weighs about 2.1 GB and brings slider sound effects, fixes some slider settings and takes care of bugs. They all can be found in the Settings menu under Slide Settings.

SourcePlanned Parenthood Latest Actions Reveal They are Just an Abortion Vendor and Business

Planned Parenthood's affiliate in Boise, Idaho, has announced it is ending its primary healthcare services but will continue to perform abortions.

BOISE, Idaho, Dec. 3, 2018 / Christian Newswire / -- Kara Cadwallader, vice president of medical affairs and senior medical director for Planned Parenthood of the Great Northwest and the Hawaiian Islands, said basic healthcare services would be discontinued because of the lack of patients asking for these services, reported Boise State Public Radio.

Cadwallader said people had access to basic healthcare services elsewhere.

Brandi Swindell is Founder and CEO of Stanton Healthcare which is a life-affirming women's health clinic located right next to the Boise Planned Parenthood clinic.

Ms. Swindell states;

"By cutting primary health services but continuing to be an abortion vendor, Planned Parenthood has revealed what they truly are. That is, an abortion business which has become the largest abortion provider in the world.

"Planned Parenthood likes to portray themselves as critical providers of women's healthcare across the nation yet federally qualified community health centers -- which do not provide abortions -- offer more comprehensive health care services than those offered by Planned Parenthood. These health centers outnumber Planned Parenthood clinics 20 to 1.

"Planned Parenthood's own annual report shows most of its real healthcare services have been in decline over the past several years. Tragically during this time, their abortion business has increased. It is important to note, the services that Stanton provides to women in the Boise area have only increased during the same time period.

"Planned Parenthood cutting health services in Boise only underscores the reality that they need to be defunded and the $500,000,000 of public funds that they receive annually should be given to clinics that truly service and provide quality care to women."

For more information or interviews contact Brandi Swindell at: 208.867.1307



Haiti - FLASH : A Police Commissioner killed with ax





On the evening of 1 December in Tabarre, Commissioner Robert Plymouth (53) assigned to the General Inspectorate of the National Police of Haiti (IGPNH) was savagely axed by an unidentified individual.



The aggression occurred while Commissioner Plymouth had just closed the doors of the business he owned at Tabarre 52 and was preparing to return to his residence. He was axed as he climbed into his vehicle according to PNH Chief Inspector General Ralph Stanley Brice.



Rushed to hospital by residents, Commissioner Plymouth did not survive his injuries.



An investigation is opened to determine the causes of this assassination and to find the author of this barbarous crime.



This murder brings to 3 the number of police officers murdered in a little more than 15 days, after the police offcier Durosier Jurond, of the Intervention and Maintenance Corps (CIMO) on November 19 last https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-26167-icihaiti-insecurity-a-cimo-agent-shot-dead.html and Charles Jocelyn, in Chalon, in the Nippes, on November 21, 2018. https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-26206-haiti-demonstrations-a-police-officer-shot-and-thrown-on-tires-on-fire.html . Note that two other police offciers (agent IV) Jean Claude Joassaint and Henry Desamour assigned to the Brigade of Motorized Intervention (BIM) were wounded by bullets on November 22, 2018 while they were in Delmas 40 B.



See also :

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-26167-icihaiti-insecurity-a-cimo-agent-shot-dead.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-26206-haiti-demonstrations-a-police-officer-shot-and-thrown-on-tires-on-fire.html



SL/ HaitiLibre





















Haiti - Politic : ONA prepares to launch large projects





Me Chesnel Pierre, the Director General of the National Office of Old Age Insurance (ONA) announced that his institution was preparing to launch large projects in December 2018 and 2019.



ONA-Fanm

The ONA-Fanm microfinance program for women merchants who do not have easy access to credit, will allow throughout the month of December to nearly 5,000 beneficiaries from associations of entrepreneurs in the department to obtain loans at the rate of 1%. https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-21835-haiti-politics-launch-of-the-ona-fanm-credit-program.html



ONA-Diaspora

The ONA-Diaspora program will allow former ONA insureds who have had to leave the country to continue paying their contributions. Anyone living in the diaspora will be able to join the ONA, pay their dues online and possibly benefit from loans to make investment projects in the country.



ONA-Students

ONA plans to recruit 1,000 graduating students every three months (10,000 gourdes per student). These students will conduct a census of companies not yet affiliated with the ONA and others will identify persons over the age of 70 (as part of the Universal Security).



ONA-Communities

In 2019, ONA will launch a new ONA-Communities product aimed at bringing services and products closer to local authority employees. To this end, ONA intends to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Federation of Mayors of Haiti (FENAMH) and the Federation of CASEC. Chesnel Pierre explains that with this new program, the ONA wishes to reaffirm its commitment to access to the rights and privileges of insured persons to all agents of local communities, and strengthen its policy of accompanying these agents closer to their communes.



Also in 2019, as part of the modernization of the institution, full computerization of ONA data will be effective. In addition, the Draft Amendment to the Framework Law (obsolete) of ONA will be implemented so that it responds to new social realities.



See also :

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-26163-icihaiti-les-cayes-ona-provides-500-loans-to-madan-sara.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-25025-haiti-notice-temporary-suspension-of-the-launch-of-the-ona-etidyan-program.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-21554-haiti-social-ona-launches-a-new-service-for-the-diaspora.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-16789-haiti-economy-ona-in-figures-2014-2015.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-14317-icihaiti-notice-ona-new-services-from-july.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-14256-haiti-humanitarian-solidarity-fund-for-future-returnees.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-14099-icihaiti-social-mortgage-loans-to-ona.html



S/ HaitiLibre





















Haiti - Economy : Sunrise Airways will provide the connection Havana / Santo Domingo





Monday, the businessman and philanthropist Philippe Bayard, President of the private Haitian airline Sunrise Airways based in Port-au-Prince, whose head office is located in Haiti announced the opening of a new connection between Santo-Domingo (Dominican Republic) and Havana (Cuba). According to Bayard the excellent historical relationship between Haiti and Cuba was "a determining factor" when choosing destinations on the island.



For this destination, Sunrise Airways will operate two weekly flights, Wednesday and Sunday, from Santo Domingo at 7:00 am. The return flight will depart from Havana at 5:30 pm.



Philippe Bayard said he was pleased with the opening of this new destination in the Caribbean, which positions Sunrise Airways "as one of the fastest growing airlines in the region, exceeding 200,000 passengers in the ten first months of 2018." https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-24704-haiti-flash-sunrise-airways-a-haitian-success-story.html



Recall that Sunrise Airways began serving Santiago (Cuba) from Port-au-Prince in 2014 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-12292-haiti-economy-sunrise-airways-opens-new-route-to-cuba.html , then extended its connections to Havana https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-20202-haiti-economy-inaugural-flight-of-sunrise-airways-pap-havana.html . Sunrise Airways plans to open two more routes to Santa Clara and Holguin in 2019.



The inaugural flight to the Cuban capital is scheduled for December 5.



For informations : ventasdq@sunriseairways.net

Phone : +1 809 985 8600

Sunrise Airways website : www.sunriseairways.net/



SL/ HaitiLibre





















Haiti - Security : Two contingents of international police officers will leave Haiti





As part of the first phase of disengagement of the Police component of the UN Mission in support of Minujusth, two contingents, one based in Port-au-Prince (India 1) and the other based in Miragoane (Nippes) will leave Haiti on December 18, 2018.



There will now be only 5 contingents of international police to support the operations of the National Police of Haiti (PNH).



Deployed in the regions to preserve past security gains over the past years, Constituted Police Units (UPCs) are gradually withdrawing to transfer full security responsibility to a gradually strengthened PNH.



Recall that it was 10 years since UPC India 1 arrived in Haiti (October 2008) as part of the United Nations Stability Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH). Based in the industrial park area (SONAPI) of Port-au-Prince, it gives way to the officers of the PNH who will now be responsible for securing the area. A strategic position for the national institution that intends to reduce crime between the Airport and the City Center through an increased presence.



For its part, the Bangladeshi contingent based in Miragoane will give way to the UPC of Rwanda, based so far in Jeremie (Grand'Anse). "Miragoane is a strategic point between the capital and the Great South that must be kept accessible," said Commissioner Serge Therriault, Commander of the Police component of the Mission. With the reduction in the number of international police officers, this realignment into an existing United Nations base makes it possible to maintain a rapid deployment capacity to the departments of the South and Grand'Anse or, if necessary, in support of operations in the West of Port-au-Prince."



With the return of Bangladeshi and Indian police contingents, UNMIJUSTH is implementing its disengagement strategy on the ground with a view to its closure scheduled for October 2019, in accordance with Security Council resolution 2410 (2018).



HL/ HaitiLibre





















Haiti - Washington : The Minister of Culture strengthens the ties of cooperation with the international





Jean Michel Lapin, the Minister of Culture accompanied by members of his Cabinet and representatives of the Cultural Property Conservation Center, completed a mission to Washington (26-30 November) to strengthen cooperation ties. To this end, Minister Lapin met with authorities representing various subdivisions of the Smithsonian Institution, including the Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative, the National Museum of African Art (NMAfA) and the National Collections Program.



With Ms. Corine Wegener of the Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative, the Haitian delegation discussed the need to strengthen the capacity of cultural actors through training workshops. On the other hand there was talk about the deficiencies in Haiti in the field, such as the lack of a conservation and research laboratory or training in preventive conservation in the face of various natural hazards.



Then, the delegation held a working session with Gus Casely-Hayford the Director of the National Museum of African Art (NMAfA) and Karen Milbourne, Curator at NMAfA.



Mr Casely-Hayford hoped that the cooperation with Smithsonian is based on a more ambitious project. This brought the Haitian delegation to reflect on the concept of a "Museum of the Haitian Revolution", with three components : the history of the struggle for independence of the country, voodoo and the arts.



Along with Bill Tompkins and Walter Ennaco of the National Collections Program, the Haitian delegation outlined the need to initiate a survey to assess the state of conservation of cultural property in Haiti.



Finally, at the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, the members of the delegation met with Mrs. Diana B. N'Diaye, the senior curator and specialist in cultural heritage. Traditional Haitian, African and even indigenous games from South America were at the heart of the discussions. The Folklife team presented the project of producing an album on Haitian music and the realization, in 2019, of a festival of traditional music-voodoo where Brazil and Benin will be in the spotlight. Minister Lapin took the opportunity to propose the participation of Haitian artists and also insisted that the Haitian culture is also honored in this festival.



In addition, the titular of the MCC, Mr. Jean Michel Lapin, had an interview with Assistant Deputy Secretary Kenneth Merten https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-26279-haiti-news-zapping.html around the strengthening of the existing partnership between Haiti and the United States and training opportunities and possible other collaborations.



It should also be noted that Minister Lapin has engaged with Paul Altidor, Ambassador of Haiti in Washington, in discussions on strategies for strengthening cultural ties between Haiti and the United States, through exchange programs in Culture, in view of the development of what he calls an active "cultural diplomacy".



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-13778-haiti-politic-the-minister-of-culture-seeks-partnerships.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-1135-haiti-heritage-rescue-of-the-cultural-goods-of-the-center-of-art.html



HL/ HaitiLibre





















Haiti - USA : Former Haitian political candidate pleads guilty to cocaine trafficking





Vincent Casseus, former Deputy candidate (2015) of Jeremie (Dept. Grande Anse) under the banner of the Alternative League for Progress and Haitian Emancipation (LAPEH) https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/elections2015/25octobre/deputes/Resume-depute-8_1.pdf , extradited to the United States, pleaded guilty to cocaine trafficking, confirmed the District Attorney's Office of South Florida.



Casseus, nicknamed "Angelo" or "Jeremie", 44, will be the subject of a hearing on January 30 about his sentence after pleading guilty to "possession with attempted distribution" of more than 500 grams of cocaine.



According to court records "Casseus ran a drug trafficking organization that used people to import cocaine into the United States, hidden in tomato paste cans."



Vincent Casseus and his accomplice Vito Antenor a resident of Miami-Dade (40 years) which also pleaded guilty are charged with conspiracy to import and possession with the intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine in counties of Miami-Dade and Broward and elsewhere. The indictment further alleges that Casseus and Antenor intended to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine in Miami-Dade County on November 6, 2016.



If found guilty of the counts of conspiracy alleged in the indictment, the defendants incur a minimum sentence of 10 years' imprisonment and life imprisonment. If convicted of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, the defendants will be sentenced to 5 years to 40 years in prison.



SL/ HaitiLibre





















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Police must crack down against accomplices

"The police must now consider as a bandit any citizen who is driving or in an official vehicle, which facilitates or covers the flight of bandits sought by the police, especially in cases of flagrante delicto. Any bandit is entitled to the same treatment," said Mario Andresol, the former Director General of the PNH



L'Hermitage Hotel : Accessibility Award

The Hermitage Hotel Pandiassou in Hinche, represented by the owners Dr. Kyss Jean Mary and his wife Ms. Nicole Jean Mary, received the Accessibility Award for the development of their hotel for people with disabilities.



Micro Industrial Park of Ouanaminthe

Friday, December 7 at Haut Maribaroux (North-East) will be inaugurated the Micro Industrial Park services Ouanaminthe Industrial Development Company (CODEVI) https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-18386-icihaiti-economy-laying-the-foundation-stone-of-the-service-micro-park-of-ouanaminthe.html



See also :

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-18386-icihaiti-economy-laying-the-foundation-stone-of-the-service-micro-park-of-ouanaminthe.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-17185-icihaiti-economy-two-new-industrial-micro-parks-in-the-country-in-2016.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-11669-haiti-economy-codevi-industrial-park-11-years-of-successful-economic-development.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-15404-haiti-economy-signature-for-a-micro-park-in-ouanaminthe.html



Freedom of expression under threat

The Observatory of Youth underlines that freedom of expression is threatened in Haiti, recalling that the country has moved from 53rd place in 2017 to 60th position in 2018 in terms of freedom of the press according to the ranking of Reporter Without Border.



Martine Moise's visit to the University Hospital de la Paix

On Sunday, the First Lady of the Republic Martine Moise visited the University Hospital de la Paix in Delmas 33. The goal was to strengthen the early childhood program.



Important delivery of documents

The Delegation of the European Union to Haiti, represented by Aniceto Rodriguez, Head of European Cooperation in Haiti has officially handed over to national institutions, documents produced during the 5 years of the Program of Support to Reconstruction and Neighborhood Redevelopment (PARAQ). These documents, which include development plans for 10 neighborhoods, study files for the construction of roads and bridges, and risk management plans, will be used to continue the work of improving the urban environment.



HL/ HaitiLibre

















Published on 2018/12/02 | Source

The Defense Ministry has reached a tentative decision to make conscientious objectors serve as prison staff for 36 months, it said Wednesday.

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The decision comes after the Constitutional Court early this month ruled that conscientious objectors cannot be forced to bear arms and an alternative to mandatory military service must be made available.

At the moment conscientious objectors are simply jailed for the 18 months their military service would take.

The ministry set the period at three years because men with professional skills like doctors and engineers are allowed to work in public health clinics or factories for 34 to 36 years instead of serving in the military.

An Army spokesman said, "Under the Constitutional Court ruling, we need to come up with an alternative to the mandatory military service by the end of 2019. We plan to submit the proposal for National Assembly ratification in February of next year".

"We will give this a try and may fix any problems that arise", the spokesman added.Havre Police Department

Rachel Kaylin Jager-Cunningham of Havre, 29, was arrested on charges of obstructing justice, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving with a suspended or revoked driver's license, during a vehicle stop on U.S. Highway 2 East Friday at 8:36 a.m.

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A caller at a First Street business reported a credit card fraud Friday at 8:54 a.m.

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Wesley Alan Main Jr. of Harlem, 33, was arrested on a charge of shoplifting after a caller at a First Street business reported a combative shoplifter Friday at 9:57 a.m.

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Chad Steven Cliff of Havre, 39, was arrested on charges of driving with a suspended or revoked driver's license and probation violation, during a vehicle stop on 9th Street Friday at 3:15 p.m.

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Kermit Dean Eagleman of Box Elder, 49, was arrested on a state District Court warrant and on a Justice or City court warrant after a caller on Second Street reported Friday at 6:05 p.m. seeing a man with outstanding warrants.

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Anthony John "A.J." Rucinsky of Havre, 30, on a charge of disorderly conduct after a caller on Montana Avenue reported a disturbance at 2:51 a.m. Saturday.

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A two-vehicle crash between a Honda and a Chevrolet was reported at 10:06 a.m. Saturday at Fifth Avenue and First Street.

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A caller at a First Street business reported a gas drive-off Saturday at 10:23 a.m.

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A caller reported Saturday at 3:37 p.m. a vehicle crashed into a tree on Second Street.

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Nicole Lynn Brown of Harlem, 33, was arrested on charges of trespass to property and resisting arrest after a caller at a Ninth Avenue business asked Saturday at 3:53 p.m. for help removing a woman from the property.

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Officers responded to a report of women fighting in a First Street establishment Sunday at 2:36 p.m.

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Keenan Lewis Doney of Havre, 28, was issued a summons on a charge of disorderly conduct after a caller on First Street reported a man with a knife Sunday at 5:19 p.m.

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A Second Avenue caller reported a stolen watch Sunday at 7:12 p.m.

Hill County Sheriff's Office

Deputies investigated a Friday 8:41 a.m. report from 11th Street North of a burglary in progress.

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A drug offense was reported at Hill County Detention Center Friday at 10:01 a.m.

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A theft, forgery or fraud was reported at 10:25 a.m. Friday on Eighth Avenue West.

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Casey Owen Mummey of Havre, 38, was arrested on a state District Court warrant at the detention center Friday at 12:06 p.m.

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Tammy Ann Marinkovich of Havre, 52, was arrested on a Justice or City court warrant Friday at 2:22 p.m. at the detention center.

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A Rudyard caller reported Friday at 3:45 p.m. two speakers had been stolen.

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A caller at the Havre City-County Airport reported Saturday at 8:35 a.m. that they would be testing their emergency drill and distress button for 911.

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Kyle Ross MacDonald of Rocky Boy, 35, was arrested on charges of driving without a driver's license and driving under the influence, during a vehicle stop north of Box Elder Sunday at 12:06 a.m.

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A summons was issued after a Seventh Avenue north caller made a complaint Sunday at 1:13 p.m., but no details on the charges were provided.

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Sheriff's deputies investigated a complaint made at the Havre Police Department Sunday at 3:36 p.m.

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Samantha Ella Caruth of Havre, 20, was arrested on charges of DUI, obstructing a peace officer or other public servant, resisting arrest and selling or giving intoxicating substances to minors, after a deputy initiated investigation of suspicious activity on U.S. Highway 2 East in Havre.

Montana Highway Patrol

Saturday at 8:15 p.m. Highway Patrol investigated a truck roll over with injury on U.S. Highway 2 in Blaine County.

Montana Highway Patrol trooper investigating the crash has not responded to a request for comment by press deadline this morning.

Havre Fire Department

Emergency medical personnel responded to three calls Friday, five calls Saturday, one call Sunday and two early this morning.

Havre Animal Shelter

The Havre shelter this morning held one short-haired cat, two medium-hair cats, one long-hair cat and one 9-month-old medium-hair kitten all of unknown gender, two short-hair female cats, one medium-hair male cat and two long-hair female cats, along with 11 feral cats for its spay/neuter and release program.

The Havre shelter this morning also held a female Australian cattle dog-blue heeler-border collie dog, a female mixed-breed dog, a female mixed-breed 6-month-old puppy, a male mixed-breed 26-week-old puppy, a female mixed-breed 10-month-old puppy, a male Labrador retriever-border collie 6-month-old puppy and a female mixed-breed dog.Highland Park Early Primary students and Principal Mark Irvin pose for a photograph in Blue Pony blue clothing. The photo was the winning submission in Tilleman Motor Co.'s School Shout Out competition.

Highland Park Early Primary School will receive $1,000 for its display of school spirit in Tilleman Motor Co.'s School Shout Out competition.

The contest was held statewide with 28 schools submitting 53 entries, Tilleman Marketing Director Susan Brurud said.

Tilleman plans to present the check to Highland Park Tuesday.

KRTV of Great Falls helped with promoting the event.

Highland Park Principal Mark Irvin submitted a photo of students and himself dressed in Havre Blue Pony clothing titled "Future Havre Blue Ponies," and they received the most votes via Facebook to claim the $1,000 first-place prize.

Brurud said the entry period was open for three weeks to allow schools to upload photos and descriptions of their submissions. After that, the voting period was open for another three weeks to allow for voting from the public. People could vote once a day, Brurud added.

"We had lots of people voting," she said. "I know we had someone call in from California that wanted to see how she could vote for her grandkids' school. It was just fun to see how far it kind of spread."

Highland Park won for their "Future Ponies" picture with 445 votes out of 2,169 votes cast.

Brurud said this was the first year that the contest has been held, and it is unknown at this time if the contest will become an annual event.

"It was fun for us to get a bunch of our kids together," Irvin said. "It seemed almost the whole school was clad in Blue Pony blue that day so it was really easy to round up, you know, I think we had 35 kids in the photo. We just thought it would be neat to show our school spirit even at this level, kindergarten and first grade, you know, trying to build pride in our schools."

Brurud said the criteria for schools was to submit a photo and a reason why the school should receive the $1,000 prize.

Irvin said with budget cuts coming at the state level and "resources being limited," he already has an idea of how to use the prize money.

"What I'd really like to do is, we're planning a year-end celebration at the end of this year. We want to invite parents in and have like a barbecue and have some different games available for all of our students and there'll be face painting," he said.

The money from the contest would go toward the supplies to put on the end-of-the-year celebration. Irvin added it would also be a way to thank the parents for their support in voting for Highland Park.

Irvin added the money would also go toward purchasing some social skills books to have at the school.

"Yeah, it'll go to good use for sure," he said.

Irvin said he would like to thank all the people who voted for Highland Park in the competition.

Brurud said Tilleman co-owner Craig Tilleman and the company have "always been generous towards the community."

"I like to see all the different schools that participated and all the great photos. There's everything from little babies dressed up in school gear, all the way up to the one that was the winning photo," she added. "So I really loved the variety and the feedback that we got. I got messages from people, you know, so excited that their picture was up there and wanting to know where they ranked."

Brurud said she didn't have rankings and didn't know who was going to win until about five minutes before the winner was announced.When the first snow fell back in the beginning of October, I looked outside my window at my snow-covered car and thought to myself: Were not in Kansas anymore, Toto. (Confession: My second thought was of my dad because the black of my car with the white of the snow on top reminded me of his salt and pepper hair.)

Thats my pop culture way of saying that Im not from around these parts. No, I was born in a coastal town in California called Ventura. Its around Los Angeles for those not familiar with small cities in California.

When I was about 2 years old, my parents and I moved to Simi Valley  also near Los Angeles. My brother was born there, and we stayed there until 1995. We moved shortly after the Northridge earthquake (yes, also near Los Angeles; Google the earthquake, too).

We moved to another small town called Bakersfield located about two hours north of Los Angeles. That was home to me until I graduated from college and went to the University of Arizona in Tucson (Beardown! Go Wildcats!).

I graduated with a history degree and put that to good use at State Farm as an auto claims representative. After a year I applied for an underwriting position and got out of claims. I spent the next two years in underwriting.

So what brings a California/Arizona kid to Havre? Well, lets just keep this simple and vague: my heart.

Ive been here since the end of September and to say that moving here was a bit of a culture shock, would be an understatement.

Lets start with just the size of the places Ive lived. Im omitting Ventura and Simi Valley because I was only there for a couple years and consider myself more from Bakersfield  though if youve been to Bakersfield, you might ask why Id want to be associated with that city over a city like Ventura.

The population of Bakersfield around the time I left for college was pushing 350,000. Tucson had a population of just over 500,000 and the University of Arizona itself had a student population of around 45,000. Finally, Phoenix has a population just shy of 1.5 million.

Although technically, I didnt live in Phoenix. I lived in a south-eastern, suburb of Phoenix called Gilbert whose population is only about 200,000.

Now, Im in Havre with a population pushing a whopping 10,000. That is why my girlfriend would always make fun of me when I told people I was from a small town in California.

You dont know what small is, shed say to me.

Sticking with the obvious, lets talk weather now. I clearly planned this well because I left Arizona when it was 100 degrees and came up here when it was about 60.

To be honest, though, Id grown tired of the heat. Bakersfield, Tucson and Phoenix summers were all the same. Temperatures exceeded 100 degrees and summer activities included swimming or watching movies in an air-conditioned building.

So Im swapping the sunshine for snowfall. I must confess I was a little relieved that I wasnt here last year. Thats the number one response so far when I tell people Im from Arizona.

Oh, youre lucky you werent here last year for winter.

Still, every time someone describes last winter here in Havre, I get a little nervous. Heres a shocker: I had never driven in snow.

My girlfriend has been nice enough to show me how to test if the roads are slick; although I wish she would have done it in her car instead of mine, but hey its a learning opportunity right?

Consider this, it is currently mid to low 60s in Phoenix right now. If you combine the high and the low for Havre, it still wouldnt reach the high for Phoenix.

I packed shorts, sweatshirts and a couple pairs of jeans. I quickly learned that was good enough for fall and winter in the south, but not nearly adequate for northern weather.

The first weeks here were spent gathering thermal wear, fall jackets, winter jackets and gloves. In the beginning, when I saw the weather in the 30s for the day, I used to put on four layers. Im slowly adapting now, although, I know of some others who would disagree.

Despite these major changes, Ive enjoyed life in an actual small town so far. For one thing the traffic, or lack thereof, is phenomenal. From our house, I could take a 15 minute walk to work or take a five minute drive. In Phoenix, it was about an hour to get to work and an hour to get home.

The community spirit is felt in every event that happens over the weekend. Everyone feels like family and everyone pitches in to help.

Before leaving family and friends behind in Phoenix, I told myself this was a chance to experience something new. I dont know how long Ill be here, but I know that Ill leave here changed for the better.Snoring and sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure and heart diseaseand the risk may be greater for women, according to new research.

The Health Risks of Snoringand Why They Might Be Worse for Women

At least 37 million adults snore on a regular basis, according to the National Sleep Foundation. But all snoring is not equal: Occasional snoring, due to congestion or a bad sleeping position, is a nuisance. Habitual snoring can disturb your sleep patterns and rob both you and your partner of needed rest.

Snoring to the extent that you stop breathingas in the case of obstructive sleep apneais a serious health threat that puts you at risk for heart disease and stroke.

How sleep apnea affects your heart

Sleep apnea increases the risk of heart attack or death by 30% over a four- to five-year period. As the upper airway collapses and oxygen is cut off from the lungs, the body triggers a fight-or-flight response, which decreases blood flow to the heart. Together these two actions raise blood pressure and, over time, wear out the heart.

According to new research presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America, this risk may be greater in women. In the new study, the walls of the heart were enlarged in people who snored or had sleep apnea. Compared to non-snorers, women who snored had bigger changes in their hearts than men.

Karen Shaver, a registered nurse in Valencia, Pennsylvania, experienced firsthand sleep apnea's strain on her heart.

"Before I was diagnosed with sleep apnea, I frequently had chest pains, usually at early evening while I napped," says Shaver. "One really scared me: Both arms were numb and it radiated up to my jaw. Being a nurse, I knew this was not a good sign, so I called 911."

The ambulance technicians gave Shaver oxygen and rushed her to the hospital. By then the strange feeling had gone away and doctors couldn't find anything wrong with her.

An overnight sleep study, however, showed that Shaver wasn't getting enough oxygen while she slept, and that she needed a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to keep air flowing into her lungs. Since she began treatment, her chest pains have disappeared.

"When sleep apnea patients come here, there's a real sense of disbelief," says Ralph Downey III, PhD, director of the Sleep Disorders Center at Loma Linda University in California.

"We tell them, 'Every minute you stop breathing for 30 seconds; that's like somebody coming in and strangling you.' That's the big wake-up callwhen they realize how low their oxygen level is."

Other health risks and complications

Sleep apnea also increases your risk for more immediate problems:

The severity of your snoring problem can be determined through an overnight sleep study, where machines measure the oxygen saturation of your red blood cells. (Anything below 90% saturation is cause for concern.) Depending on the results of these tests, you may be diagnosed with sleep apnea or a similar condition, upper airway resistance syndrome.

If you're unsure whether your or your loved one's symptoms warrant immediate attention, use these guidelines about when to see a doctor. The sooner sleep apnea is treated, the less likely you are to suffer health consequences later.'Stay safe and God bless,' sheriff says as he signs off

Wishing his successor and sheriff's deputies "safety and wisdom in all the uncertain days ahead," Henderson County Sheriff Charlie McDonald signed off for the last time through his monthly newsletter, The Guardian.

In a message released just before 10 p.m. Sunday night, McDonald recounted the department's achievements under his leadership since 2012, thanked his wife, Jennie, who has "sacrificed more than I in this endeavor," and ended with six verses from Paul's letter to the Philippians. ("Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.")

"While I am sad to be leaving this great community, and while I certainly had greater plans for the future of the Henderson County Sheriff's Office, it was decided by a fair and honest election, that my time was done," McDonald said. "I have come to terms with that."

McDonald said he was referring to the community of deputies in the department, not to relocating from his home in Mills River.

"We don't know what we're going to do," he said. "I could easily move, I could easily stay. We're just going to take the next couple of months to just kind of see where we land. I don't have any job prospects and I'm not really looking for anything. I know the right thing will come along just like this job did."

McDonald's term ends at 6 p.m. Monday when Lowell Griffin is sworn in as sheriff in a ceremony at Living Water Baptist Church on Sugarloaf Road.

Here is the message:

"Hello for the last time from my desk at the Sheriff's Office. This is the final Guardian Newsletter. I appreciate all who looked forward to the messages and agency news that it provided. As I look over the archived past letters, even I am in awe of all that has been accomplished by the men and women who have served my administration the past six years and nine months. These newsletters have captured the highlights of a collective journey made by dedicated public safety servants, through difficult challenges, change, and the pursuit of excellence in every endeavor undertaken. What a journey it has been.

"By embracing new technology and the most current 'best practices' in law enforcement crime reduction, we reduced breaking and entering and property crimes five years running by nearly 50% from when we started. By implementing vigorous promotional processes and leadership development, we were able to hire and promote quality employees. Our deputies, staff, and our volunteers embraced increased professionalism and took great pride in being recognized by all of our peers, as one of the very best agencies in North Carolina. As a result, we have had an easier time recruiting than most, attracting higher caliber and dedicated men and women to fill our ranks. It also made it easier for our County Board of Commissioners to raise deputies' salaries and allow better pay for higher levels of responsibility and training a few years back.

"Our commitment to accountability, our emphasis on ethical and transparent operations, and our dedication to professional public service and community partnerships inspired many in our community to offer their help and expertise for the public good.

"I have been able to do so because I know that as a result of the effort and commitment of all who served my administration, I leave the ship in far better shape than when I first came aboard. My administration forged a path separate from the 'good ole boy' system and restored the public trust in the time honored and esteemed Office of the Sheriff. We have proven that agency success is guaranteed when leadership sets and holds the highest reasonable standards of ethics, morality, compassion and justice. Our men and women know this and the public we serve expects this. I am proud to know that I, and the personnel that will stay behind to serve the incoming sheriff, have given every ounce of effort we could muster to serve this agency and our community. In so doing, we have left a lighted pathway for success. I wish the incoming sheriff and every member of the Henderson County Sheriff's Office, safety and wisdom in all the uncertain days ahead.

"I have been so honored by God to have been given the time I have served as your sheriff. It was brutal at times, but so humbling and rewarding as well. I am a better man for the friends and leaders I have had the privilege to have worked alongside. My wife, Jennie, sacrificed more than I in this endeavor, yet she never regretted a moment, and stood by me through it all. We are still blessed to be very best friends and only grew closer through this time. Whatever the next mission is, we pray that it will be something we can do together. Thank you all. Stay safe and God bless."THE organiser of the Caversham Poppy Appeal has condemned the theft of three collection tins.

The tins were taken from the Age UK charity shop in Caversham, the Crowne Plaza Hotel by Caversham Bridge and Savers in Friar Street, Reading.

Appeal organiser Pauline Palmer called the thefts disgusting. She said: Im angry and really cant comprehend how anyone would do this.

Were trying to help people who are desperate and theres people walking around pinching my tins.

These people have no appreciation of the life our ancestors gave us the opportunity to enjoy. Its so sad for the people who have put money in the tins. The hardest hit are those people who have given to a good cause whether they can afford it or not.

The theft from Savers was caught on CCTV.

Mrs Palmer said: Apparently a woman and a chap went in. The woman got a knife out and just cut the tin off the till to which it was attached. The empty tin was then found in the churchyard at St Marys Butts, I believe.

An employee went out to collect to try to make up for it, which was a lovely thing to do.

Anyone with information should call Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 43180342488.A shopper was arrested after he threw a chocolate bar at a staff member when he got into a row with him at the checkout.

Paul Behan (44) became threatening and threw the bar after "having words" with the assistant in the incident at a city centre convenience store.

A court heard he had anger management issues.

Judge Ann Ryan adjourned his case for the production of a probation report after he admitted a public order charge.

Behan, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to using threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace.

Dublin District Court heard the accused entered Spar on Nassau Street on November 23 last year.

He "had words with" one of the shop assistants and the argument became heated.

The accused had been trying to buy a bar of chocolate and in the course of the argument he threw it at the staff member, a garda told the court.

He was arrested and charged.

Apologised

The court heard the defendant had since gone back to the shop and apologised for his behaviour.

A report on the accused was presented to the court and this said that Behan should take part in an anger awareness programme, the judge said.

Behan had been living in England before returning to Ireland in 2016, his solicitor Matthew De Courcy said.

He had found the services limited and there were "nuanced anger management issues" that he was trying to address.

The accused was suffering from anxiety and had been told he could attend group therapy but found that "exceptionally stressful" and felt one-on-one therapy would be better, Mr De Courcy said.

After asking for a probation officer to be consulted, the judge adjourned the case to a date next month.

She remanded Behan on continuing bail.

He did not address the court during the brief hearing.Educational Visit from Finland

Over the past week Lower Primary School staff have welcomed Finnish educationalist Ms Leena Heinila to their schools. Ms Heinilas visit has cemented the cultural and educational ties established by the Department of Education after their visit to Helsinki earlier this year.

Teachers have attended presentations, taken part in collaborative discussions and have enjoyed workshops where they have been able to achieve a better understanding of what has made the Finnish educational model a point of reference for outstanding educational philosophy, practice and achievement throughout the world.

Ms Heinila has also had the opportunity to learn about Gibraltars educational system in a primary school setting by peer and collaborative teaching in our classrooms through the week. Another highlight of the visit was a question and answer session held at Westside School with Newly Qualified Teachers where peer mentoring, empowerment and collaboration were the main topics discussed. The Department of Education have said it will continue to engender these cultural and educational learning exchanges by extending them to all teachers in other school sectors in the near future.

Ms Heinila said: It has been a brilliant possibility to enhance learning and sharing from each other. There are so many great collaborative school projects happening in your schools, which engage students and promote their reflective thinking and knowledge applying skills. When reflecting about daily education practices in the light of another culture, even another local school or class culture, our eyes open to completely new questions enabling a mutual learning and sharing. I am amazed to see the rich cultural opportunities you have here in Gibraltar to be implemented and applied into your own local learning culture. Thank you so much for sharing it with me.

Director of Education, Mrs Jacqueline Mason, said: This has been an exciting opportunity for our professionals to come together sharing and celebrating outstanding professional practices both here in Gibraltar and Finland. Ms Heinila has led workshops and discussions on collaborative teaching and learning focusing on a holistic, topic-based model.

Minister for Education, the Hon John Cortes, said: The Finnish educational model of collaborative teaching and learning, reduction of stress from exams, and focus on developing the child as a person is very close to the Governments philosophy driving the current changes in our Education system. By exploring the model at close quarters, we are better placed to consider how we may be able to adapt our system as we move forward. It shows how deeply we are looking at improving Education, and how we are not solely focusing on buildings, important as they are.The heartbroken widow of murder victim Dermot Byrne has hit out at the justice system after learning his killer committed the savage crime while on bail for a violent robbery.

"He should have been locked up - so many other people wouldn't have been hurt," Dermot's widow Geraldine said.

In October, Anthony Walsh received a life sentence for killing Mr Byrne in a savage attack in Swords in July 2017.

Last week it emerged that the killer had subjected an 18-year-old student and her pal to a shocking ordeal in a Co Kerry robbery five months earlier.

Walsh was given bail and went on to commit more crimes, including the senseless and brutal murder of Mr Byrne.

Shocking images of Walsh attacking a man in Dublin city centre just two days before the murder show how the thug was completely out of control.

He punched his victim several times and kicked him in the head as he lay on the floor of a casino.

Eventually a doorman managed to manhandle Walsh out of the premises.

"He should have been locked up," Geraldine told the Sunday World.

"He had a string of convictions against him and he was still let out.

"With all those convictions, people like him shouldn't be let out on the streets.

"He was a violent man and he'll always be a violent man. He was born evil."

The trial also proved to be another ordeal for the family as they listened to the proceedings.

Smirk

"Even in court, there was no remorse," said Geraldine.

"Before the jurors would come in, he'd look at us in the face and smirk."

Meanwhile, daughter Shawna said: "They dragged my dad's name through the dirt in the courts. It felt like my dad was on trial."

The brutal nature of the attack only became apparent as details of how Mr Byrne died emerged during the trial.

"To find out it wasn't just 'one punch and run away', that he stood there, even when a passer-by went by, he was still doing it to Dermot, lying on the ground, taking his last breath," said Geraldine.

"He also showed a presence of mind to take whatever forensic evidence he thought was on Dermot and steal his bank card, so he had to have gone through his wallet. He took the time to do all this."

In October, Walsh, who had 78 previous convictions, was found guilty of the murder of Mr Byrne by a unanimous jury verdict.

The court heard that 31-year-old Walsh inflicted more than 100 injuries on Mr Byrne during a sustained attack.A passenger assaulted a taxi driver by spraying him in the face with a fire extinguisher he had taken from the car boot.

The assault by Cian Hand (20) left the taxi driver, who had recently had cataract surgery, with pain in his eyes.

Judge Patricia McNamara ordered a pre-sentence report and adjourned sentencing to next February.

The defendant, with an address at Killakee Lawns in Firhouse, admitted before Tallaght District Court to seriously assaulting a taxi driver and failing to pay a taxi fare on October 30, 2017.

Sergeant Eithne Madden said the victim picked up four young men at St Stephen's Green around 7.15pm.

The taxi driver dropped off one of the young men in Rathfarnham, before taking the other three men to the Templeroan estate in Knocklyon.

When the driver reached Templeroan Green, Hand (below), who was sitting in the rear of the taxi behind the front passenger seat, reached into the boot and took out a fire extinguisher.

Sgt Madden said Hand then discharged the fire extinguisher into the face of the taxi driver, causing him pain.

Fled

The other two men got out of the vehicle and Hand continued to spray the taxi driver, before they all fled the scene.

The unpaid fare was 27, the court heard. The defendant was identified from CCTV footage.

Sergeant Kieran O'Neill said the taxi driver had cataract surgery shortly before the assault. He went to the Eye and Ear Hospital for treatment, before attending his local GP. He used eye drops in his eyes and had made a full recovery.

The taxi driver was off work for two days and had to get the car cleaned and valeted.

The court heard Hand had no previous convictions.

Defence lawyer Stephen Montgomery said Hand had a problem with pills and cocaine when he was in his late teens. Hand later developed an autoimmune disease due to his cocaine use, and this left him in hospital.

Hand was highly intoxicated at the time of this offence, Mr Montgomery said.

The defendant had since turned his life around, was clean of drugs and was studying business and finance at Rathmines College.

Judge McNamara said the offence was very serious and ordered a pre-sentence report. She also asked the Probation Service to investigate if Hand was suitable to complete community service.It's "inevitable" that the Christmas period will see long hospital waits for some patients, Health Minister Simon Harris has admitted.

After nurses reported the worst-ever November on record for hospital overcrowding, Mr Harris appealed to people to only use Emergency Departments when absolutely necessary.

He said the public need to avoid making the situation more difficult for doctors by showing up with complaints that could be dealt with by a GP.

"I need and ask for the support of everybody this winter in terms of keeping our emergency departments for emergencies. We're going to be extending the opening times for our primary care centres and minor injury units," he said.

The minister's call follows a controversial demand from Taoiseach Leo Varadkar for medical staff to work over the holiday period.

Mr Harris said the HSE has now signed-off on rosters for Christmas and is satisfied that there are enough doctors and nurses in place to ensure diagnostic equipment is more accessible than in recent years.

However, nursing representatives have expressed concern that 2018 is already the worst year on record for overcrowding and there are several weeks to go.

A total of 9,679 admitted patients were forced to wait on trolleys and chairs for beds last month, according to the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (Inmo).

This is an 11pc increase on November 2017 and more than twice as bad as 2006, when the records first began.

Earlier this week, the count for 2018 crossed 100,000 for the first time.

Suffering

INMO general secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha said: "Behind each number is a vulnerable patient suffering in poor conditions, with overworked staff pulling out all the stops to provide the best possible care.

"January and February are typically the worst months, so nurses and midwives will be looking to the new year with a sense of dread."

Five hospitals saw more than 500 patients on trolleys in November:

 Cork University Hospital - 932.

 University Hospital Galway - 676.

 Letterkenny University Hospital - 581.

 Tallaght University Hospital - 559.

 Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore - 549.

Speaking on Newstalk's On The Record, Mr Harris said the winter plan will see extra resources put in place.

He will take part in a special meeting of health chiefs on December 28 and 31 "to make sure that everything that possibly can be done is being done".

"But I'm not going to lie to people. I'm not going to pretend that January is not going to be a very busy period," he said.

A "tsar" will be appointed to oversee the health service's bid to avoid chaos in hospitals.

Nine hospitals identified as "sites of concern" will be targeted. These are hospitals which have already had issues with patients on trolleys this year and over the past two winters.

However, Mr Harris said it was a "myth" that everyone who goes to hospital endures long waits. He said the vast majority receive a good service.Rebecca Kelly suffered injury after an incident on the Luas

More than 110 incidents of 'surfing' have been recorded by Luas and Irish Rail in the past four years.

The potentially lethal practice, also known as 'scutting', involves holding on to the side of a train or tram as it moves away from a station.

The activity came to prominence in October when Rebecca Kelly (20) received 550,000 for severe brain injuries she received after falling from a Luas carriage.

Ms Kelly - who admitted she had done a "silly thing" - had to be pulled out of the way of an oncoming tram when she fell on to the tracks.

Split

Figures released under the Freedom of Information Act show there have been 35 cases of tram surfing in the past four years.

The incidents are split almost evenly between the Red Line, which links the Point with Tallaght and Saggart, and the Green Line, which runs through Dublin's southside.

Dervla Brophy, of Transdev - which operates both Luas lines - said: "Surfing can be fatal. All staff are trained to be vigilant, observe and report. The public have also reported cases.

"Any activity, or concerns, that are reported will result in the tram being stopped, and security or gardai being called.

"It's important to stress just how dangerous 'surfing' is - the risk of serious injury is very high."

Transdev delivers school talks on the dangers of 'surfing' and the potential consequences are made clear on school and gardai community forums.

"We show CCTV of various 'surfing' incidents on the lines," said Ms Brophy.

"The purpose is to ensure that parents know where their kids are - and that if children are on the lines, they know how dangerous their 'playground' might be."

Irish Rail said there had been 87 incidents of train surfing since 2016, 75 of which were on DART services.

Of incidents recorded during the past three years, 12 were on the Northern commuter route, which connects Dublin and Dundalk. Apart from the DART services, no other trains were affected.

Irish Rail's Barry Kenny said 'surfing' was a "continuing issue".

"On-board staff, station staff and security personnel are vigilant in ensuring we respond with security or garda support when 'surfing' occurs.

"Extra security patrols this year are yielding a reduction in the number of incidents over 2017."

Irish Rail said it had modified the original DART fleet of 76 carriages during refurbishment to make headlight units more difficult to hold on to.

The operator said future fleet orders would have preventative measures incorporated into the design.A delegation of Fine Gael junior ministers have complained that they cannot afford to stay in Dublin during the week because of rising hotel costs.

At least eight ministers att- ended a meeting with Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe last week and voiced concerns that their expenses do not factor in overnight stays in the capital when the Dail is sitting.

While TDs from outside Dublin are entitled to claim between 25,295 and 34,065 in unvouched travel and accommodation expenses each year, ministers are not.

Instead, they are required to submit mileage claims to their department and must cover their own hotel bills.

The situation has long been a bone of contention, but the ever-rising cost of hotel rooms led the junior ministers to challenge Mr Donohoe.

Hotel prices are likely to rise further when the Budget 2019 decision to end special tourism VAT rates kicks in on January 1.

A number of ministers confirmed to the Herald that a cordial meeting took place.

Bellyaching

"Paschal listened, but there's a realisation on both sides that nothing can be done about it at the minute," said one minister.

"Nobody is going to be interested in our bellyaching."

It is understood at least eight ministers were at the meeting and had the backing of others supportive of their position.

A second minister said: "Bas- ically, Paschal said people would have to wait until after an election.

"It's an anomaly that if you're a Dublin minister you're fine, but if you come up from the country you're paying for a hotel two or three nights a week."

Another member of the group estimated his hotel costs were hitting close to 500 a week, or up to 10,000 a year.

During the meeting, the ministers also reminded Mr Donohoe that they had foregone salary increases over the past two years under the public sector pay restoration deal.

While the decision to forego the money was "voluntary", the ministers said they were put under huge pressure to do so when compared with backbench TDs.

"In real terms, backbenchers are actually making more money than ministers of state," a source claimed.

Junior ministers are entitled to the basic TD salary of 94,535 plus a ministerial payment of 35,319, bringing their total income to 129,854.

Along with all TDs, they can claim a vouched public representation allowance, which is to be used for constituency offices, stationery and other purposes such as maintaining a website.

TDs can claim 20,350, but ministers are limited to a maximum of 16,000.Shoppers are set to hit the stores in a big way this Christmas to relive Celtic Tiger spending

Shoppers this Christmas are bracing themselves for the biggest spending spree since the Celtic Tiger.

Households are expected to spend an average of 2,690 in December, roughly 870 more than any other month this year.

This is around a 3pc increase on what was spent over the same period last year, according to a report from retailers' trade body Retail Ireland.

Total sales over the Christmas season are expected to top 4.65bn, up from 4.5bn last year.

"There is no doubt the spending power is there. The challenge now for retailers is to best position themselves over this key trading period to convince consumers to part with that hard-earned cash in their stores and through their various other sales channels," said Tom Burke, head of Retail Ireland.

With increasing numbers of consumers choosing to shop online, the difficulty for Irish retailers will be to ensure the anticipated extra spending is felt locally.

According to IE Domain Registry, as few as three in 10 small and medium businesses are able to take sales orders online.

The company that manages Ireland's country domain name has warned businesses they could lose customers to competitors that are offering online shopping. The expected increase in spending comes despite a recent dip in consumer confidence, and a flat volume of retail sales in October.

Embrace

"While consumer sentiment has dipped somewhat in recent weeks, most likely to fears around the impact of events such as Brexit, retailers are hoping that for the next three weeks at least these challenges can be set aside, and consumers will embrace the festival of shopping that the Christmas season brings," said Mr Burke.

Overall, the total value of consumer spending in the Irish economy is on course to grow by 5pc this year. Unlike the previous peak in consumer spending, between 2005 and 2008, this growth is predominantly not credit driven.

During that period, Irish households were borrowing about 2bn each month to fund spending.There will be plenty to look at as you wander the streets of Dublin over the coming weeks as some of the capital's iconic sites have been brought to life especially for Christmas.

After nearly a year of planning, the Winter Lights Dublin City went live last night.

The aim of the Dublin City Council (DCC)initiative is to illuminate the city this festive season in 13 locations for 31 days - until January 2.

The buildings and sites now illuminated with enhanced Christmas lights are: City Hall, Trinity College, Liberty Hall, Civic Offices, GPO, the Mansion House, Hugh Lane Gallery, Custom House, Covanta Dublin Waste to Energy Plant in Poolbeg, Samuel Beckett Bridge, Millennium Bridge, O'Connell Street and Parliament Street.

DCC said the aim of the initiative was to enable Dublin to take its place amongst the iconic 'Cities of Light' around the world.

Winter Lights Dublin City is aiming to be more eco-friendly, and 157,800 low-power LEDs, 100 tonnes of equipment and 15,780 metres of cable have been used to illuminate the city.

Expand Close Lord Mayor Nial Ring / Facebook

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Lord Mayor of Dublin Nial Ring said: "My team of helpers has been working as hard as Santa's elves to make the vision of Winter Lights Dublin City a reality."

"Christmas is a wonderful, magical and enchanting time of year, and the lighting of some of the city's great iconic buildings and structures will give everyone another reason to visit the city and view this exciting new seasonal experience," he added.

Safety

The council made the decision to replace the traditional Christmas lights ceremonies in the city centre, citing health and safety concerns involved due to the large number of people who attend.

In 2016, the headline act due to perform at Grafton Street's Christmas lights ceremony was cancelled due to safety concerns, as 15,000 people turned up for the event.

Speaking last month at an Oireachtas Committee, Fine Gael Senator Jerry Buttimer said the cancellation of the lighting ceremony this year was "unprecedented" and he was "very disappointed" by the council's decision.Oxford, Conn.  December 3rd, 2018  The National Warbird Operator Conference (NWOC) announced a strategic partnership with the D-Day Squadron, offering the group the opportunity to make a presentation on their mission during the NWOC annual convention.

Momentum is building for the D-Day Squadron as the vintage warbird community continues to rally around this unprecedented opportunity to return 19 flying restored C-47 and DC-3 (the civilian version of the C-47) aircraft across the North Atlantic in late May 2019 to take part in honoring the few remaining D-Day veterans like Jim who are still with us. We are proud to support the efforts of the D-Day Squadron in bringing these historic aircraft back to where the history actually happened, declared Ann Marie Loos of NWOC.

Flying along the original route across the North Atlantic used to ferry aircraft during the Second World War, the Squadron will join with its European counterpart, Daks over Normandy. These groups will create an aerial fleet to cross the English Channel on June 5th as well as participate in multiple events. Events will take place on June 2nd-5th at Duxford Airfield in the United Kingdom and from June 5th-9th at Caen-Carpiquet Airport in Normandy, France.

It is really great that the industry has come together to support us in a major way, said Moreno Aguiari, Executive Director of the D-Day Squadron. Several companies have offered their support and expertise and we are really proud of this. I want thank the NWOC management team for giving us the opportunity to present our mission and for facilitating our participation.

In addition to the presentations during the NWOC annual conference, be sure to visit the D-Day Squadron table on February 21st-24th in Tucson, Arizona to learn more about this mission to pay tribute the Greatest Generation during this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

About NWOC

Founded in 1993, the annual NWOC event brings together warbird owners, operators and museum directors to address particular events facing warbird owners and to discuss common goals related to the ever-changing economics, operations and regulations pertaining to flying ex-military aircraft.

NWOC focuses on the exchange of ideas and information concerning the safe operation and restoration of warbird aircraft. This unique educational conference offers programs to enhance pilot skill and knowledge, expand aircraft maintenance technician and restorer knowledge, develop awareness of medical and insurance facts, and address aircraft-specific topics to ensure continued flight for these unique historic aircraft.

https://www.nwoc.aero/We would like to welcome aboard Pacific Trailways as a new sponsor. As you will see from their article below, the company is heavily invested in the promotion and safe operation of a vintage warbird, a prime directive for all of us here at Warbird Digest. Its hard to imagine a more beautiful way of touring the magnificent island nation of New Zealand than aboard a vintage 1944 Douglas C-47B Skytrain!

Pacific Trailways is a New Zealand tour operator with a passion to create unique, exclusive, adventurous vacation experiences. Late in 2014, the company teamed up with Fly DC3 NZ to plan and operate exceptional, all-inclusive DC-3 (C-47 Skytrain) Air Tours of New Zealand. The tours are now into their fourth successful year and tour guests so far have included New Zealanders, Australians, North Americans, Brits and Europeans.

The collaboration between Pacific Trailways and Fly DC3 NZ is a winner. Pacific Trailways Air Tour partner Fly DC3 NZ is a living heritage organisation that flies and maintains a classic C-47 Skytrain  refitted to a DC-3 airliner configuration and painted in a legacy RNZAF colour scheme. Their DC-3 was manufactured as C-47B-10-DK 43-49219 at the Douglas Aircraft plant in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The US Army Air Force accepted her at Tinker Field in Oklahoma City on October 30, 1944. She served predominantly in the USA during the remainder of WWII. Following her military service, the C-47 was operated by a number of airlines in the South Pacific before moving to Australia in 1974. She has been based in New Zealand since 1987.

The Fly DC3 NZ organisation grew from an association with a New Zealand Warbirds group back in the 1980s. Today, members of the organisation are professionals from all avenues of the aviation world. Fly DC3 NZ is a well-respected, fully licensed New Zealand airline certified by New Zealand Civil Aviation to meet the highest standards of aviation regulations in every aspect of the operation. The crew undertake regular service checks and training to meet and comply with all New Zealand Civil Aviation standards.

Pacific Trailways role is to plan each itinerary route then book and organise all of the Air Tour hotel accommodation, meals, ground transport, sightseeing services, cruises and everything else not related to the operation of the DC-3.

Meanwhile the Fly DC3 NZ crew arrange all of the aviation related necessities for the tours including flight sector route planning, security, flight crew and cabin crew roster, en route airport liaison, refuelling and servicing and all the other important details required to keep the DC-3 flying safely.

The DC-3 crew are thorough aviation professionals who volunteer their services to Fly DC3 NZ, simply because they enjoy flying the DC-3 and love being part of a significant aviation heritage initiative. Many are current or recent Air New Zealand crew or service personnel from the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF). Chief Pilot and Training Officer Captain Geoff Cooper has a 37 year career history with Air New Zealand  most recently flying B777-300s across the Pacific. He was with the RNZAF before that and has been flying DC-3s for decades. He has a well-established love of round engines and proper flying in preference to the jets!

Pacific Trailways generally runs up to four DC-3 New Zealand Air Tours a year  over the Southern Hemisphere late spring-summer-autumn period of November through to April. Three tours still have some seats available for this season  the flagship 12-Day DC-3 New Zealand Air Tour, the 5-Day Classic Eastland DC-3 Air Tour and the 4-Day Northland DC-3 Air Tour.

We are really pleased to have Pacific Trailways as a sponsor, and hope that some of our readers will be fortunate enough to travel aboard their DC-3 tours of New Zealand  this will doubtless be a grand adventure!Focusing on the world of wines, beer, and spirits that we experience through our travels at WineCompass.com and theCompass Craft Beverage Finder.Shopping for the holidays? Black Friday sales are out there now

Emails

Publications

Wine Advocate

Wine Spectator

Vinous

Wine Enthusiast

Decanter

La Revue du Vins de France

Falstaff

El Mundo Vino

People

Robert Parker

James Suckling

Stephen Tanzer

Antonio Galloni

Neal Martin

Jancis Robinson

James Laube

Ian D'Agata

Bettane & Desseauve

Tim Atkin

Jeff Leve

Daniele Cernilli USA

14,403



7,212

3,802

879

510

431

8

2

2



6,890

1,209

1,143

1,015

447

118

94

36

7

6

4

2 Europe

1,728



45

127

3

45

75

0

87

0



1,107

66

0

13

2

10

6

24

0

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0

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Anyone who takes their wine seriously is likely to be inundated with email "blasts" from all and sundry. Moreover, if you have ever registered with a wine store or distributor, then you will be getting emails daily, weekly or monthly, extolling the virtues of the current crop of wines, and telling you just how advantageous are the current prices.These emails may even contain more than a grain of truth. In support of that truth, wine sellers often use the opinions of well-known people and publications, at least when those opinions are supportive. Indeed, the more supportive they are, the more likely they are to be quoted. So, an email inbox full of these offerings does, in my mind anyway, raise the question of just how often particular people / publications get cited. Moreover, I have wondered whether the USA and Europe quote the same people to the same extent.To answer these questions, I have used two sources of information. The data for the USA come from Bob Henry (a business school-educated, ad agency-trained wine marketer based in Los Angeles), who has long used Gmail to archive email-blast offerings from many of the leading US wine merchants (they are listed at the bottom of this post). I searched through the 14,403 emails from late 2006 to April 2017. The data for Europe are my own, which I collected from April 2017 to March 2018, totaling 1,728 emails. These came from merchants in Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom (they are also listed at the bottom of this post).The results are shown in the following table.Not very surprising, is it? [Note: I did search for other publications and names, but drew a blank for them.]Thehas had around 350,000 paid subscribers, while thehas had 40-50,000. In both cases these are likely to be predominately US residents. Mind you, the subscription penetration rate of habitual US wine drinkers is likely to be <1%. However, in the matter of marketing wines this is what the retailers have, and theis usually noted to out-perform the, in terms of quotability. However, this is only true in the USA. In Europe, the, the UK-published, and the Austrianmagazine appear to do better.For individuals, Robert M. Parker Jr has been the world's wine guru for several decades, although his influence may now be on the wane. Perhaps he has been under-performing, since he only made it into 48% of the US emails? After all, he made it into 64% of the European emails! However, note that the US wine stores may mention either Parker or the(his former newsletter), whereas the European stores focus almost solely on the man himself, when quoting wine opinions.Indeed, other than Parker, the European emails do not cite many critics at all. This is in marked contrast to the US emails, where at least three other people get quoted 5-10% of the time. This may have something to do with the fact that most of the critics are based in the USA, even if they do comment on wines worldwide.The profession (or sport) ofwine criticism was developed in the USA  in Europe, there are far fewer critics whose commentary is worded in a manner likely to help sell a lot of wine. Indeed, the most quotable information is usually a quality score, and many of the European critics eschew the art (or sport) of scoring wines. For example, Jancis Robinson may well be "better known than Robert Parker Jnr, at least outside the US", but her wine notes (and lack of scores) are not the stuff that advertising copywriters dream of.This, perhaps, is the situation in Europe  there is no reason why the local critics should be helping to advertise wine, as opposed to helping consumers identify desirable wines. So, the critics are not providing quotability. The US critics, on the other hand, are very much doing so, and are thereby being cited more prominently in their homeland. Parker and hishave provided the archetypal selling points (ie. quality scores), along with the. It will be interesting to see what happens under the new regime at theYou may also ask yourself why sites like CellarTracker are not quoted. After all, approval by a community site should, in theory, encourage other consumers. Perhaps it has a lot to do with the fact that the scores are averaged across a number wine drinkers, and are therefore lower than those of individual critics (a score of 89 will not sell a wine but 90 will). More importantly, perhaps, the scores do not accumulate until after the retailers have started selling the wines (post hoc scores will not sell wines but a priori ones will). This suggests that the critics will continue to wield power, at least in the world of wine marketing.The emails came principally (but not solely) from the following stores.Aabalat Fine & Rare WinesCalvert Woodley Wines & SpiritsGolden West WinesHi-Time Wine CellarsK&L Wine MerchantsPost Wines & SpiritsThe Rare Wine Co.D. Sokolin & Co.Wine AccessWine CellarageWine ExchangeWine GarageAporVinoBernabeieBuy WinesEnoteca d'autoreNickolls & PerksSangiShopSicilstoreSuperioreVinelloVinissimusVinoteketVintjanstenWineFinderXtraWineYes, you can transfer your domain to any registrar or hosting company once you have purchased it. Since domain transfers are a manual process, it can take up to 5 days to transfer the domain.

Domains purchased with payment plans are not eligible to transfer until all payments have been made. Please remember that our 30-day money back guarantee is void once a domain has been transferred.

For transfer instructions to GoDaddy, please click here.According to secretary general of Bangladesh National Hindu Mahajote Gobinda Chandra Pramanik, there have been 1,792 incidents of persecution against people of religious minorities in Bangladesh in the last 11 months, reports India Today.

He said this at a press conference on 30th November, 2018, at National Press Club in Dhaka while quoting various sources from newspapers and social media as well as sources from the Hindu Mohajote (an alliance of 24 Hindu organizations in Bangladesh).

Of these 1,792 occurrences, 50 took place on religious institutions and temples while 2734.81 acres were grabbed by local musclemen.

He also said that the Hindu Mohajote was respectful of all religions and religious opinions. Members of the group also met leaders of all big political parties in Bangladesh over the matter and discussed various issues with the Prime Minister.

After the national parliament election in 2001, the Hindu community was largely suppressed. The then government did not do anything to bring any justice in cases of crimes against humanity.

The Hindu community thinks there is a lack of justice and an absence of Hindu leadership in the parliament for political purposes. They also feel that the community is under repeated attacks.

Pramanik said that leaders representing Hindus in Parliament would be confirmed to protect the existence of the community.

Executive president of National Hindu Mahajote, advocate Dino Bandhu Roy and senior vice president Dr Sonali Dad were present at the Press conference.

Minorities Rights Forum urges government to ensure equal rights

The Minorities Rights Forum Bangladesh (MRFB) on Friday urged the government to ensure standards of living, rights and safety for minorities of the country as well as equal rights in social, economic and political sectors.

The call came during a round table discussion titled National Parliament Election and Minority Rights at the Jatiya Press Club in Dhaka.

Leaders and members of MRFB along with representatives of different minority groups participated in the conference.

Pankaj Bhattacharya, President of Oikya NAP, said violation of minority rights was a national issue and the state remained unconcerned.

He said a total of 8,000 incidents of violence were yet to put on trial and 20,000 marked criminals, who were responsible for these incidents, were roaming freely.

The state has obtained the role of oppressor. Violence against minorities of Nasirnagar was committed under the nose of the UNO and other government officials. They cannot deny the liabilities of the crime, said the Oikya NAP chief.

Pankaj Bhattacharya further questioned the legality of the participation of Jamaat-e-Islami in the national election and remarked that state can never be safe for minorities if such a party exists and ever comes to power.

Why a pro-liberation war government is giving floor to such a party? he said.

Freedom fighter and MRF trustee Ashalata Baiddya stressed on the importance of forming a ministry for minorities saying that in its absence, no minority community would exist in the future.

MRFB Joint Secretary Banani Biswas said if minorities of Bangladesh stay united they will surely attain their rights.

Dr Nasreen Ahmed, pro vice-chancellor of Dhaka University, said, We are living in a time where religion is being used as political weapon. No religion teaches us to discriminate against others.

MRFB put forward a set of demands including forming a minorities commission with judicial power, reservation of 15 per cent seats for minorities in the national parliament and increasing the minimum wage of tree plantation workers.

In addition they also requested to resolve the complexity over the Enemy Property Act.

MRFB also announced they would conduct more programmes before the 11th parliamentary election.

Source : HindupostIn the biggest ever payout for disability not leading to death, the government has directed the multinational major Johnson & Johnson (J&J ) to pay up to 1.2 crore each along with an additional 10 lakh for non pecuniary losses as compensation to patients who were sold faulty hip implants between 2006 and 2010. The amount of compensation each patient gets will depend on the degree of disability and healthy years and income lost that will be calculated using the Indian Disability Evaluation and Assessment Scale (IDEAS) for the certification of disability. The money is to be paid in a time-bound manner through bank accounts of affected persons, around 100 of whom have already approached the government for compensation.

Its a big win for patient rights in India, where compensation payouts are paltry and few and far between and where most patients continue to accept poor medical outcomes as fate. The few who file complaints spend years, sometimes decades, proving medical negligence against a seemingly insurmountable nexus of doctors, hospitals and big pharmaceutical companies.

In the highest ever compensation paid in a medical negligence case in India, it took US-based Dr Kunal Saha 15 years of legal battle before the Supreme Court awarded him Rs 5.96 crore in 2013 as compensation for the death of his wife in 1998 from complications after being treated for fever and respiratory infection at Kolkatas Advanced Medical Research Institute (AMRI) Hospital.

Patients also have to deal with high trade-channel margins sought by profiteering hospitals and industry. Last year, massive margins led the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority to cap the prices of coronary stents used to prop open blocked arteries and orthopaedic implants for joint replacement surgeries. The price regulators investigations into the death of a seven-year-old girl from dengue haemorrhagic fever at Gurugrams Fortis Memorial Research Institute found the hospital had on occasion marked up consumables by up to 1,737%.

J&J has drawn criticism for agreeing to pay $4.4 billion as damages to patients in the US who were given faulty metal-on-metal Articular Surface Replacement (ASR) hip implants, while it did not inform most patients in India that the implant had been recalled from the worldwide market in August 2010 after reports of high failure rates and pain and inflammation because of metal toxicity, which led to bone damage and tissue death.

Close to 4,700 people received the faulty implant in India before the recall, but only 1,080 have been tracked. Of them, only 275 underwent revision surgeries, while the others are being monitored for side effects. With the manufacturer, orthopaedic surgeons and hospitals making little effort to reach out, more than 3,600 patients have slipped between the cracks and continue to be live in pain. Mumbai-based ASR hip recipient Vijay Vojhala had to haggle with J&J for two years before the company agreed to foot the bill for a compensatory revision surgery in 2012 to replace its faulty hip that had led to the then 40-year-old losing his teeth, hearing in one ear, his ability to walk without pain and his job.

Improved regulation will force the health care sector to acknowledge that the patient is a client and hospitals and pharmaceutical companies are service and product providers. For those who charge hundreds of thousands for preventing illness and saving lives, health care is a business and not a favour they are doing the patient or the community. If their work falls short of expectation, they will and must be held accountable like other professionals and businesses.

Patients not happy with the service have every right to complain, just as they have a right to full disclosure about the treatment being given. The hospital, too, has every right to explain why a certain modality was used to treat a particular disease or condition, and if the treatment fails, why it did. If documentation is needed to prove that the right treatment was given, it must be maintained and shared with all patients and their families.

The J&J compensation is likely expected to open up the insurance sector for product liability in India, which makes it imperative to hold doctors, hospitals and companies accountable to strengthen the sharing of information on adverse drug reactions and drug and device recalls. Medicine is a science that follows validated protocols and full disclosure about the treatment being provided to them is every patients right.

sanchitasharma@htlive.comThere appears to be a new awakening in urban India where city after city is fighting for its green spaces and its green lungs. Be it for the protection of the Aravali Biodiversity Park (ABP) in the national capital region (NCR), the Kasu Brahmananda Reddy (KBR) National Park in heart of Hyderabad, or the Aarey forests in Mumbai, the last few months have seen mobilisation of urban citizens, certainly a section of them, in defence of the environment. The citizens have been out on the streets, taken the matter to the courts, and also been actively mobilising the media and the political establishment in this fight.

There are at least two things that stand out in these particular efforts: the first is that these are about chunks of land with forest cover in the heart of these rapidly growing metropolises; and the second, that the threats to all of them come from linear infrastructure  roads in the case of Hyderabad and the NCR, and the metro in the case of Mumbai. It is also a fight that is led by a certain class of the populace, a kind of an urban environmentalism that is enthralling for its energy and dynamism, but also one that will also need a larger vision of the environment if it has to eventually succeed.

The challenge is structural and goes down to the foundational belief of the current paradigm that linear infrastructure is one of the key drivers of development and economic growth. This linear infrastructure is now the most significant cause of wild animal mortality across the country where thousands of reptiles, amphibians, birds and big and small mammals are dying in road and rail accidents or being electrocuted by high voltage power lines. The mobility imperative, of travelling further and deeper and faster, all of which originate (literally and conceptually) from the urban landscape, one might argue, has only come home to roost.

We, those who want to go on a long drive on an expressway to liven up a lazy Sunday morning; we, those who have benefitted from all the good roads, fast cars and the gleaming metros, are left fighting a situation that is of our own creation, indeed one that has benefitted us the most. We are complicit in the creation of the beast that we are now trying to get off mid-gallop! The Strategic Road Development Program in Hyderabad seeks to slice out parts of the last remaining forests of the city because road space is not enough any more just as the National Highway Authority of India wants to build a road through the green lung of Gurgaon to decongest the roads that connect it to Delhi.

This is also a structure that has always been hugely hostile to most other inhabitants of the urban space, be it centuries old trees that line our roads, the crumbling public transport system, the pedestrian and the cyclist who use the most environmental friendly modes of transport and yet constitute the biggest casualties in road accidents in our country or the cycle-rickshaw puller who seeks little but who is most marginalised in the hierarchy of urban transportation. The needs of these and many other such constituencies have to be accounted for, otherwise we will only be dealing with the symptoms of a malady that runs deep and wide.

One hopes that the current battles will be won, that the forests of Aarey will be saved, that the ABP in Gurgaon will continue to be oasis it is and the KBR national park will remain the jewel in Hyderabads crown. But, and it is important we dont forget this, there will be many more such battles waiting ahead if the more fundamental issues, questions and challenges are not addressed. There is the bigger war lurking around the corner to ambush us. Perhaps it is upon us already!

Pankaj Sekhsaria is an environmental researcher and writer based in New Delhi and Hyderabad. His research interests lie at the intersection of science, society, technology and environment.

The views expressed are personalBJP has changed the country, it will change Telangana, too: PM Modi

For once put your trust on us. We (BJP) have changed the country, I assure you, we will change Telangana, too, said PM Modi.

If leadership is correct, development happens, dreams become reality: PM Modi

Nowadays, people say that political parties lie so much that they have now stopped believing in poll promises. But, as promised I have given Rs 1,25,00,000 house keys to needy in just a year. But, the remote control government couldnt do that in Telangana. We have proved that if leadership is correct, development happens, dreams become reality, said PM Modi

Vote bank politics cant bring development: PM Modi

Development cant be brought just by doing vote bank politics. Development can only be brought about by taking everyone together, said PM Modi.

They are doing vote bank politics in the name of reservation: PM Modi

The question is how will they (the Congress) give reservation to the minority groups as the Constitution has set the extent of reservation. They will steal the rights from the Dalits and other backward classes to give undue benefits to these minority groups. They are doing vote bank politics in the name of reservation, said PM Modi.

They are demeaning the constitution by talking about reservation to politics: PM Modi

They are demeaning the constitution by talking about reservation to politics. Polls will come and go, but that the country remains intact is the responsibility of every political party, said PM Modi.

KCR, Rahul Gandhi two sides of same coin: PM Modi

Addressing a public meeting in Hyderabad, PM Modi said, Rahul Gandhi, Chandrababu Naidu and KCR are apprentices. They talk about appeasement, casteism. They are two sides of the same coin,said PM Modi.

KCR and Rahul Gandhi, Naidu well apprised about each others characters: PM Modi

Terming Rahul Gandhi and Chandrababu Naidu as naamdar (ones with big names), PM Modi said They attack KCR and KCR attacks them back. It seems they are well apprised of each others characters.

Opposition should come out and address the issue of dynastic politics: PM Modi

If you dont like Modi, thats fine. But, if you are even a bit concerned about the countrys democracy, you (opposition) should come out and address the issue of dynastic politics, said PM Modi

Opposition should answer whether TDP is a dynastic party or not: PM Modi

Those sitting in Delhi should answer whether TDP is a dynastic party or not,said PM Modi.

Telangana has to defeat autocracy and make democracy win: Modi

The people of Hyderabad will have to decide whether they want to strengthen democracy or not. Telangana has to defeat autocracy and make democracy win. In Telangana, what we are seeing is dynastic politics. Out of all the parties, which are contesting these elections, only one party, the BJP values the democratic ideals, said PM Modi.

Hyderabad can inspire the whole country by making democracy win: PM Modi

Hyderabad can inspire the whole country by making democracy win by voting BJP to power, said PM Modi.

PM Modi addresses public rally in Hyderabad

PM Modi is addressing a public rally in Hyderabad.

KCR, Modi playing collusion politics: Chandrababu Naidu

Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu in Hyderabad: Central government did not fulfill the assurances they made to Telangana. Yet, K Chandrashekar Rao is not questioning Modi, they are both playing collusion politics, said Chandrababu Naidu.

Rahul, Naidu attend rally in Hyderabad

Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu are attending a public rally in Hyderabad.

Raje govt has brought development to every village of Rajasthan: Shah

Vasundhara Raje-led BJP government in Rajasthan has brought development to every village of the state, said Amit Shah.

Not sure whether Rahul campaigning for Congress or BJP: Shah

Rahul Gandhi is taking PM Modis name much more than we in BJP take. I am not sure whether he is campaigning for Congress or BJP, said Amit Shah in Rajasthans Madhopur.

In 2019, Congress will take away power from Modi: Rahul

In 2019, we (Congress) will defeat them (BJP), and will take away power from Narendra Modi. Modi wants to remain the PM and keep KCR the CM, but we will defeat this partnership, said Rahul Gandhi in Telangana.

BJP, Narendra Modi a threat to India: Rahul Gandhi

Wherever I go, I speak against Narendra Modi because I know Modi and the BJP are threats to our country. They spread hate and the Congress fights them, said Rahul Gandhi in Telangana.

KCR has always helped BJP: Rahul Gandhi

Every opposition party had requested KCR to not help BJP during presidential and vice-presidential elections, but he continued to do so,. said Rahul Gandhi.

BJP made people stand in queues during demonetisation, everyone criticised them, but KCR continued to support them. GST is finishing industries, but KCR didnt pay heed to your woes and supported this move too, said Rahul Gandhi.

MIM helping KCR in Telangana: Rahul Gandhi

Its a grand alliance at one side and KCR at the other in Telangana. The MIM is also helping KCR. During Maharashtra and Assam elections, MIM helped BJP to defeat Congress, said Rahul Gandhi.

Cong doesnt know about agriculture: PM Modi

Congress today cries crocodile tears for farmers, but they only know about gardens, they dont know anything about agriculture. They dont even know whether chana grows on trees or shrubs, said PM Modi.

BJP govt put a check on black marketing of urea: PM Modi

During Ashok Gehlots govt, for urea you had to stand in queues, it was black marketed, but not anymore because we put a check on it, said PM Modi

We will give Rs 1 lakh to every Self help group: Rahul Gandhi

If voted to power, our alliance will give Rs 1 lakh to every Self help group, said Rahul Gandhi in Telangana.

We will set a fund of Rs 1 crore for women entrepreneur groups

KCR took your money and gave it to industrialists, said Gandhi

Cong doesnt have a CM face because they know they wont win: PM Modi

Wherever Congress goes in Rajasthan, they tell multiple ministers you will be the CM, because they know they are not going to win, they are not going to come to power, said PM Modi.

Cong mocked my ideas of Swacchata, yoga: PM Modi

Congress has always mocked my ideas of Swacchata (cleanliness), yoga because they do not realize their importance, said PM Modi

Namdar Gandhi chose to overlook fakir Gandhis ideologies

Cleanliness is foremost for tourism, which is what even Gandhi ji promoted. Congress had been in power for four generations, but they never remembered Gandhis ideology of cleanliness.

Namdar gandhi chose to forget fakir Gandhi, said PM Modi.

Tourism flourished under BJPs regime: PM Modi

Were these all the Indian monuments built during Modi governments time? Were they not present at Congress time, but why didnt tourism flourish back then.

Today, India welcomes tourists from all over the world, had Congress worked in the this direction we would have been getting the largest traffic of tourists in the world,  asks PM Modi.

UN honoured India with Champion of the Earth title: PM Modi

When the world didnt know anything about global warming, Indias Bishnoi community was doing their bit to conserve the environment, said PM Modi.

The people have my remote control: PM Modi

The public has all the knowledge and my remote control lies in their hands which is why I am on the right track, said PM Modi in Rajasthan.

How is my knowledge of Hinduism related to Rajasthan elections: PM Modi

Does Rajasthan need to vote to get solutions their problems related to electricity, educations,etc, or on basis of whether I know about Hinduism or not? asked PM Modi.

Congress talks of development: PM Modi

Whats the purpose of a government? so that we can come up with solution to problems related to issues of development, be it roads, electricity, and education.

But Congress never mentions about development in their speeches, said PM Modi.

Congress a university of lies: PM Modi

Congress lets one get a PhD in telling lies, and those who lie maximum are even taken into positions of power, said PM Modi in Jodhpur.

PM Modi addresses rally in Jodhpur

PM Modi is currently addressing a rally in Rajasthans Jodhpur.

TRSS- TRS real name, says Rahul

TRSS is TRS real name, said Rahul Gandhi.

Rahul promises reservation for tribals

If our alliance comes to power, tribals will get reservation as per their population. Well fulfil the decision taken in undived Andhras assembly on Dalit categorisation, says Rahul.

Youngsters to get Rs 3,000 as unemployment allowance: Rahul

If Congress comes to power, the old pension system will be brought back. Every youth will get Rs 3,000 as unemployment allowance. 20% of the budget will be put in education to build colleges, schools, and universities and a 30-bed hospital will be built in every in every district, said Rahul Gandhi.

KCR promised 22,000 houses, not even 5,000 constructed yet: Rahul

In 5 years, KCR had promised that he would give a 2-bedroom house to every person. 22,000 houses were promised but not even 5,000 have been made. KCR should explain to the people of Telangana why he didnt do what he had promised.

Congress will fulfil those promises when it comes to power.

Well give Rs 5 lakh to build those houses. All those who dont have houses will get their money back, said rahul Gandhi.

KCR insulted people, should apologise: Rahul

KCR said the public doesnt understand. The public made KCR CM and KCR doesnt respect the people. KCR should apologise to the people of Telangana for insulting them, said Rahul Gandhi.

Cong will waive off farmers loans

When farmers fought for their land, for MSP, they were attacked with violence and were arrested and sent to jails.

When the Congress comes to power, well waive farmers loans, said Rahul Gandhi.

Under KCRs rule, farmers werent given right prices for their produce, well ensure you get right prices, is Rs 2000 for Dhan , Rs 7000 for kapas, Rs 10,000 for chilly, and Rs 10,000 for haldi, said Gandhi.

KCR abolished Congress land reforms law: Rahul

In the country and in the state, farmers are committing suicide. UPA govt had brought a land reform law to protect farmers and their lands. As per that law, the farmers should have got 4 times the market rate for their land.Land couldnt be taken from the farmer without asking him.

We brought the adivasi bill to give adivasis patta for their land. The bill clearly stated that adivasis should get benefits in terns of land, water and air. All these laws were finished in Telangana by KCR.

30,000 youths in Telangana are unemployed: Rahul

30,000 youths in Telangana are unemployed. How many youths did KCR give jobs to? Entire Telangana knows that he did not reimburse the fee of lakhs of students, causing them immense losses, said Rahul Gandhi in Telangana.

KCRs new name Khao Commission Rao: Rahul

After 5 years of KCR govt, where he kept redesigning projects, KCR has got a new name- Khao Commission Rao.

When Telangana was formed, the state has Rs 17,000 crore surplus. In 5 years, Telangana is facing a 2.5 lakh crore debt. It cant even be imagined, but every family owes Rs 2.5 lakh.

Rahul has Modi phobia: Amit Shah

Rahul Gandhi has Modi phobia. Against all the good schemes/policies like Swacch Bharat that Modi govt has put in place, Congress says Modi hatao,  says Amit Shah.

Telangana has been betrayed by KCR: Rahul

You were betrayed in terms of water, jobs, progress.Palamur Ranga Reddy project was a project of Rs 10,000 crore. KCR redesigned it into a project of Rs 60,000 crore. Thousands of crores of money were given to his contractors, family and friends.

The water you were to get you didnt get. Congress will complete this project in 2 phases. said Rahul.

Thousands of tribals given pattas: Amit Shah

Under Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje regime, Thousands of tribals have been given pattas, says Amit Shah.

Ayushman Bharat for the poor avail affordable medical facilities: Amit Shah

Ayushman Bharat scheme has been put in place of the welfare of poor, and for them to avail affordable medical facilities, said Amit Shah.

Rahul Gandhi addresses rally in Telanganas Gadwal

Rahul Gandhi is currently addressing a rally in Telanganas Gadwal.

Amit Shah addresses rally in Pratapgarh

BJP chief Amit Shah is currently addressing a rally in Rajasthans Pratapgarh.

When Cong was at Centre, Rajasthan state govt only Rs 1.9 lakh crore: Amit Shah

When it was Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhis govt at the Centre, what did Rajasthan government got only Rs.1,09,242 cr in 13th Finance Commission. BJP government worked to increase it to Rs.2,63,580 cr for the state, said Amit Shah.

Cong couldnt bring development: Amit Shah

Nehru-Gandhis private firm, Congress party has not been able to bring about development in the country, said Amit Shah.

Built over 8 crore toilets: Amit Shah

BJP built over 8 crore toilets, a move that led women to a dignified life, says Amit Shah.

8                           :    #___  BJP LIVE (@BJPLive) December 3, 2018

40 lakh illegal migrants identified in Assam NRC

NRC is a measure to keep illegal migrants out of the country, 40 lakh of them were identified in Assam alone.Congress kept opposing the move, for they might be a vote bank for them, but we dont want them as vote banks instead security of the nation is our priority.

Modi ordered surgical strikes on 10th day after Uri attack: Amit Shah

Modi ordered surgical strikes on 10th day after Uri attack so as ti avenged the martyrs sacrifice, said Amit Shah.

BJP came to power in 19 states after Modis win in 2014: Amit Shah

Rahul Gandhi keeps asking for our accounts, let me tell him today that after the Lok Sabha elections in 2014 when Narendra Modi became the PM, BJP came to power in 19 states, said Amit Shah.

Cong has no minister, no policies, no principles: Amit Shah

 On one side is the BJP party, a team of patriots, and on one side is Congress, a party that has no minister, no policies, no principles, said Amit Shah.

Stop day dreaming, Rahul: Amit Shah

You have to choose between BJP and Cong on Dec 7. But Rahul gandhi is already day dreaming about winning in Rajasthan, said Amit Shah.

Amit Shah takes a dig at Congs CM face

Ive have been asking Cong about their CM face in Rajasthan but he still doesnt have an answer, said Amit Shah.

Amit Shah addresses public meeting in Chittorgarh

BJP chief Amit Shah is currently addressing a rally in Rajasthans Chittorgarh.

Im glad I got an opportunity to come the Maharana Prataps birthplace, said Amit Shah.

Amit Shah offeres prayers at Sanwaliya Seth Temple in Chittorgarh

Rajasthan: BJP President Amit Shah offered prayers at Sanwaliya Seth Temple in Chittorgarh, earlier today. pic.twitter.com/Zf2yNKlOzC  ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2018

Telangana, Modi, KCR & Owaisi are one: Rahul

Telangana, Modi, KCR and Owaisi are one, tweeted Rahul Gandhi.

TRS is the BJP's "B" team & KCR operates as Mr Modi's, Telangana Rubber Stamp.



Owaisi's, AIMIM is the BJP's "C" team, whose role is to split the anti BJP/ KCR vote.



Great people of Telangana, Modi, KCR & Owaisi are one. They speak in twisted tongues. Do not be fooled by them! pic.twitter.com/yIt6vlC6Wh  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 3, 2018

Rajnath to address election meetings in Rajasthan

Union home minister Rajnath Singh is going to address three election meetings in Kumbhalgarh, Aspur and Jhalrapatan constituencies of Rajasthan today.

119-Member Telangana assembly goes to polls on Dec 7

Elections in Telangana, a 119-member assembly will be held on December 7.

The Telangana legislative assembly was prematurely dissolved on September 6 as per a recommendation made by the state cabinet. The assembly polls were originally scheduled to be held along with Lok Sabha elections next year.

200-member Rajasthan Assembly to go to polls on Dec 7

The 200-member Rajasthan Assembly is scheduled to go to polls on December 7 and counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Congress Rajasthan manifesto a fraud on people: BJP

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday called the Congress election manifesto a fraud on the people, saying that the partys governments in Karnataka and Punjab had similarly promised to waive farmers loan but not a single penny has been waived.

Farmers crisis, job creation focus of Congresss Rajasthan poll manifesto

Loan waiver to farmers, free education to girls and women, unemployment allowance of up to Rs 3,500 to educated youth and pension to elderly farmers are among the promises the Rajasthan Congress has made in its election manifesto released in Jaipur on Thursday.

59 SC, ST seats could sway Rajasthan poll outcome

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 50 out of the 59 seats reserved for the Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in Rajasthan to return to power in the state in 2013. The Congress bagged 34 of the reserved seats in the 200-member assembly and went on to form the government in the state five years earlier. The SCs (17.8%) and the STs (13.5%) account for the Rajasthans 31.3% population and are key to who rules the state.

Delivered results, it shouldnt be a black mark: Vasundhara Raje

As she carries out whirlwind tours across Rajasthan coming to the fag end of the election campaign, chief minister Vasundhara Raje says that there is no anti-incumbency and BJP will retain power based on the work done by the government in the last five years.

Click here for full coverage of Rajasthan assembly elections

Neither believe in, nor practise communal politics: Cong on its poll manifesto

The Congress Tuesday said it neither believed in nor practised communal politics, but had only reflected the sentiments of the people of Telangana by incorporating promises towards a particular community in its manifesto for the poll-bound state.

1 lakh cows, farm loan waiver, free laptops main promises in BJPs Telangana manifesto

Farm loan waiver up to Rs two lakh, free laptops to degree students, regulation of liquor sale, free distribution of cows to one lakh people every year are some of the main promises in the BJPs manifesto for the December 7 Telangana Assembly polls.

The manifesto, released Thursday by state BJP president K Laxman, also promised a legislation to prevent forcible religious conversions made by offering money and other inducements.

KCRs poll manifesto promises big sops for farmers, unemployment allowance

Doubling the quantum of pensions being given to senior citizens below poverty line and differently-abled persons, payment of unemployment allowance to the jobless youth, waiver of crop loans up to Rs 1 lakh and enhancement of financial assistance to farmers from Rs 8,000 per acre to Rs 10,000 per year are some of the promises made in the manifesto of Telangana Rashtra Samithi for the next weeks assembly elections in the state.

Stage set for high-voltage last lap as big guns hit campaign trail

With only three days to go before electioneering ends for the December 7 Telangana polls, political parties are set to unleash their star campaigners for some high-octane campaigning.

Congress national president Rahul Gandhi to address public meetings in Telangana

For his campaign tour, Congress national president Rahul Gandhi will also be addressing public meetings in Telanganas Gadwal and Tandur.

As campaigning heats up, Amit Shah to hold rallies in Rajasthan

BJP chief Amit Shah will be in Rajasthan today to address public meetings in Chittorgarh, Pratapgarh, Bundi and Sawai Madhopur.

PM Modi to address rallies in Rajasthan, Telangana

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will Monday address rallies in Rajasthans Jodhpur and Telanganas Hyderabad.Actor Parineeti Chopra has given a first hand account of all that went down at the sangeet function of her cousin Priyanka Chopra and her husband, Nick Jonas. Parineeti says the grooms side surprised them by performing live at the sangeet.

Sharing a picture from the sangeet night, Parineeti said both the side were very competetive but still enjoyed a lot together. For our SANGEET, the Chopra family decided to depict Mimi didi and Nicks love story though songs. scenes and skit - full bollywood style!!! The whole family rehearsed for days and days. And were ready to beat the Jonas side hollow!!! But when the ladka wallas came on stage. they stumped us. They had been rehearsing for a long time. They sang and danced LIVE, including lip syncing hindi songs! Damn, we should have known. - All of this - but the spirit of competition was overpowered with love, happiness, laughs, whistles, cheering and noise!!! Wow wow wow. WHAT A NIGHT. P.S. We shared the trophy, she captioned her post.

Priyanka Chopra at her wedding with American singer Nick Jonas in Jodhpur on Dec 2, 2018. Priyanka and Nick exchanged wedding vows in a Christian wedding on Saturday. (IANS)

Priyanka and Nick exchanged wedding vows in a Christian wedding on Saturday. (IANS)

Priyanka had also shared pictures and videos from the ceremony held at the Umaid Bhawan Palace. For the sangeet, the Quantico star chose to wear Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla gold and silver sequins saree.

Priyanka and Nick tied the knot in two elaborate ceremonies. While they exchanged vows in a Christian wedding on Saturday, a traditional Hindu ceremony took place on Sunday. The couple is yet to release their wedding pictures.

Priyanka, 36, wore a red sari, while Jonas, 26, was dressed in a traditional outfit and turban, People magazine reported late Sunday. For their Christian wedding, the couple wore custom-made Ralph Lauren outfits and their wedding parties also donned the same label. The Hindu wedding took place at the Umaid Bhavan palace grounds, with the Mehrangarh Fort as the backdrop. The complete Jonas family was in attendance -- Nicks parents Denise Jonas and Kevin Jonas Sr, a pastor who officiated at the Christian wedding, and his brothers, Kevin, accompanied by wife Danielle, Joe and his fiancee, Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner, and Frankie Jonas. From the brides side, all her close friends and family members, including mother Madhu Chopra, brother Siddharth and cousins Parineeti and Mannara, were present at the ceremony. An E! online source said the bride looked breathtaking in her traditional red Indian wedding outfit.

Nick did a beautiful job following the customs of a Hindu ceremony, it was lovely seeing how they honoured both of their heritages, the source added. Prior to the Hindu wedding ceremony, Priyanka and Nick had traditional mehendi and sangeet functions. The couple wore outfits by designer duo Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla for both the ceremonies. The wedding ceremonies were held in utmost secrecy with no media allowed in. Even the guests were asked not to bring mobile phones with cameras. Other than select pictures from the mehendi and sangeet that were released to the media, only one grainy photograph of Priyanka in red was circulating on social media.

The couple is yet to share any pictures of the Christian or the Hindu weddings. The duo earlier posted the photographs from their pre-wedding ceremonies on their respective social media accounts.

(with agency inputs)

Follow @htshowbiz for moreSunny Leone and Daniel Weber are active on social media, and often post pictures of their children, their vacations and celebrations. On the occasion of Jewish festival Hanukkah, the couple shared pictures of their family. Sharing a picture, Sunny wrote: Happy Hanukkah Everyone!! Love the Webers!!!!! Hehe.

In the image, we see all five of themSunny, Daniel, their daughter Nisha Kaur Weber and twins Asher Singh Weber, Noah Singh Weberare dressed in track suits with the same print. Some of the prints have Jewish iconography like the Hanukkah menorah (nine-branched candelabrum lit during the eight-day holiday of Hanukkah). Nisha leans on her dad while both parents hold on to one baby each.

Hanukkah is an eight-day celebration, commemorating the rededication of the second temple in Jerusalem, at the time of the Maccabean Revolt. Daniel is Jewish.

In another picture, shared by Daniel, we see two candles burning on a nine-holed stand.

The Hanukkah menorah at Sunny Leones home, shared by Daniel Weber. (Instagram)

In September this year, Sunny had shared a video with Daniel. Writing in the post, she had mentioned that since neither of them were familiar with Ganesh Chaturthi rituals, they decided to simply move into their new flat in Mumbai, during the auspicious occasion. She also gave fans a glimpse of her spacious flat.

The couple became parents to Noah and Asher, who were born via surrogacy, in early 2018. In 2017, they had adopted a little girl from Latur, whom they named Nisha. Sunny posts many videos of Nisha, expressing her unconditional love for the little girl. Ahead of Diwali, Sunny had shared a picture of herself with other parents, sitting with Nisha and her classmates, making festoons and decorations for the festival of lights.

Follow @htshowbiz for moreSeated on a windowsill wearing a black jacket, matching jeans and shades, you could easily mistake the actor of Irish descent in Mahesh Bhatts Sadak (1991) as Sylvester Stallone from Cobra (1986). The man here is Gavin Packard, who played the villain, Maharanis (played by late Sadashiv Amrapurkar) right hand man.

During Sadak, you are waiting for his face-off with the movies hero, Sanjay Dutt. And then it happens. Sensing her mortality as Sanjay closes in on her, Maharani summons Gavins character, saying, Aye side hero, dekh tera baap aaya hai. Isi din ke liyei tere ko paala posa tha. Aaja.

Gavin goes shirtless, and you see his spectacularly chiseled body, so much better than the almost Coke bottle like identical bodies you see everyone in Bollywood sporting nowadays. He and Sanjay have their final encounter in a water-filled godown that appears from nowhere, inspired - of course - by a fight scene from the Van Damme movie Cyborg (1989).

But why the sudden nostalgia? Well, Mahesh Bhatt had recently announced that he would be returning to the directors chair with Sadak 2, slated for a 2020 release, which shall star Sanjay Dutt, Pooja Bhatt, Aditya Roy Kapur and Alia Bhatt.

Pooja and Sanjay were the lead pair in the original Sadak, which was about a taxi driver who is trying to rescue the girl he loves from a brothel. What remains to be seen, however, is who will play the iconic role of Maharani, and her henchman, which was portrayed by Gavin.

Apart from Gavin, the only other foreigner who made a mark as a villain in Bollywood was Bob Christo (1938-2011), who was the go-to bad guy for every director in the 80s, and starred in hits such as Kaalia (1981), Mard (1985) and Mr India (1987).

Packard, who died in 2012, acted in around 60 Bollywood films as well as Malayalam film industry. He was a national and state award-winning bodybuilder and trained Sanjay Dutt, Sunil Shetty and Shera, Salman Khans bodyguard.

He is survived by his two daughters, Erika Packard and Kamille Kyla Packard. We spoke to Erika, a model and a show host, about her memories of him.

Gavins daughter Erika, who is a model. (Erika Packard Instagram)

My sister and me used to always think he was superman. I used to always get irritated because he would always play the bad guy. I loved him in Sadak and also in Karan Arjun (1995) when he was fighting with Salman, says Erika, remembering her father fondly. She is at present hosting a show, Twinning, on AXN.

In fact, Sanjay Dutt is her sister Kamilles godfather, and it was Gavin who had introduced Sanjay to bodybuilding. Before leaving, we would like to leave you with this video of Gavin playing the comic and cartoon hero, He Man, in a movies song. The 80s sure were interesting times for Hindi cinema.

The author tweets at @shadowwarior and be reached at kabir.bhandari@htdigital.inA day after it was forced to cancel 14 flights because pilots reported sick, the cash-strapped Jet Airways promised to employees that all their outstanding salary arrears will be cleared on priority by April, 1 2019. The airline, in a message to pilots, also urged them to continue to stand united against all the external forces and keep up the Jet Airways spirit. Hindustan Times has seen a copy of the message.

The airline, however, claimed in a statement that the flights were cancelled due to an unforeseen operational circumstance, and not pilot non-cooperation, Press Trust of India reported.

In its message to pilots, Jet blamed the state of the aviation business for its troubles.

The aviation industry continues to remain challenging thereby impacting the entire sector and Jet Airways is no exception. In these turbulent times, we want to express our heartfelt thanks to each of you for always standing by the Company and we sincerely appreciate your continued support and understanding. Please be rest assured that the Jet Airways management remains committed to honour its obligations and is making every effort to ensure we deliver as promised. We would like to reiterate that the remaining 25% of your September 2018 salary shall be remitted on 4 December 2018. You may also note that all outstanding salary arrears will be cleared on priority closer to 1 April 2019, the airlines chief people officer Rahul Taneja said in an e-mail to employees.

A Jet Airways spokesperson said that the email was self explanatory and declined further comment.

In his email, Taneja said, There has been recent talk among select employee groups regarding potential future compensation cuts. Please be rest assured that there have been no such conversations and any information associated with this is regrettably misconstrued. We remain committed to our employees at all times and will ensure that on all people measures there is a cohesive dialogue and due consultation.

Jet, which ended the three months to June with losses of Rs 1,323 crore on revenue of Rs 6,066 crore (it ascribed the losses to the weak rupee and rising fuel prices), and has debt of Rs 9,425 crore on its books (as on 31 March 2018) has been trying to raise money to repay loans and meet other needs.

Jet also separately wrote to the pilots concerning Sundays problem.

Despite running at unprecedented levels of operational reliability and on-time performance over the last few months, a single days operational disruption has the potential to shake that trust we have built over the last 25 years. Added to this, some media houses claim that our pilots are the reason for this disruption and that individual pilots themselves have informed the media about their individual non-cooperation, Captain Nikhil B Ved, executive vice president (Flight Operations & Engineering) of Jet Airways said in an email to the pilots, a copy of which has been seen by HT.

I refuse to believe our pilots would do such a thing. I believe we have professional pilots amongst our ranks who deliver to the best of their ability and would do nothing, even inadvertently, to hurt our airline and their fellow colleagues, Ved added in the mail.

On Monday, shares of Jet Airways rose 0.25% to close at Rs 306.45 a piece on the day the benchmark BSE Sensex rose 0.13% to close at 36241. The shares are 63% off their 52-week high of Rs 870 each.He will not like my saying this, in fact, will strongly disapprove of my even trying to say it, and, given half a chance, will intervene and stop me from saying it. But I have to say it.

Palagummi Sainath has done what no one else could have, no one else tried to, no one else dared to do : Mobilise more than a lakh of farmers from different parts of India to converge on the national capital and say from Ramlila Grounds: Here We Come. What Delhi watched with its eyes and millions like me through television and online airwaves, was unprecedented. It was so, first, for the numbers that came. It was so, next, for how identical the purpose was for the farmer from Indias east, west, north or south. And it was so, most of all, for its uncompromisingly non violent intensity. There was something elemental about the convergence, something tectonic, in that it brought the impulses of the earth and the earth tiller to the centre of power, of authority, of government. Indias farmer stood eyeball to eyeball with Bharat Sarkar. Here We Come, the farmer said, Look At Us.

The convergence recalled Ramdhari Singh Dinkars unforgettable words, which Jayaprakash Narayan quoted from the same Ramlila Grounds in 1975: Janata Aati Hai (Here Come The People). Dinkars full line, of course, was Singhasan Khali Karo Ki Janata Aati Hai (Vacate The Throne, For Here Come The People). Sainath did not mean to and did not goad the concourse to say to anyone Vacate The Throne. What he did mean to say and got everyone watching to understand by the Great Convergence is You Cannot Stop Us Now.

Ever since his landmark work, Everybody Loves A Good Drought, appeared two decades ago, Sainath has become indistinguishable from the immiseration of Indias peasantry, its heroic struggles against a weather that shows no mercy, a market that knows no compassion, and an administration that bestows no time for farmers mounting woes. Through his columns and his speeches, his advocacies and his activism, he has for the last several years been telling India and the world that cares for India and for the earth, that preoccupied by neo-liberal free-marketing and a hyper nationalist capitalism, India is letting more than half of itself, rural India, live and die in misery.

Whenever drought sweeps across a part of India, or floods drown it, government moves  moves cash, which becomes corporate cement and industrial steel  to manage disaster. And that moving does help. But does first aid, with its band aids, stem the unmitigated poverty and deprivation that make natural disasters doubly disastrous? Does that which is behind the chronic distress, depression and decay of our farmers get alleviated ?

Sainath has shown that it does not, for the taproot of a farming economy, namely, the sustainability of farming, that of the livelihood of farmers and of their very lives, is what is at stake. In fact, in peril. Before the world began to take serious notice of them, Sainath showed us what Bibhutibhusan Bandyopadhyayas Ashani Sanket, Sunil Janahs iconic photographs of the Great Bengal Famine and Somnath Hores woodcuts and etchings had shown us  the dance of death in man made destitution. Corpses do not lie, for they can be counted  empirical evidence. But corpses truth can get to be shunned for being too raw to see, too harsh to accept. One can keep updating the statistics of farm suicides. But statistics have ceased to really mean something when what is happening is a tragedy in real time progress  kramashaha ( continued).

The farmers rally of November 30, 2018, will go down in the history of mass protests, like the silent trek of 35,000 farmers from Nashik to Mumbai, last March, to protest the cynical disregard by the authorities of their felt real-life needs and travails. Catalysed by Sainath and his associates and other leaders of farmers unions from across the country, spokespersons of peasant unrest like the Kisan Sabha and Yogendra Yadavs Swaraj Abhiyan, the Great Convergence was ultimately, all said and done, the work of the farmers themselves, powered by them, propelled by them, proved by them to be what it was  a spontaneous outpouring of their agony.

That leaders of national parties were at the helm of the protest was natural. That they were there courtesy the farmers, by their leave, so to say, was what made their participation unusual. Loan waivers were key to the voicings. As it only had to be. But, to fall for a pun, what happened was not about waiving loans but loaning a wave  the wave to Indias democracy of a national discontent.

In Indias farmers and their distress, Indias democratic parties have found a loan of strength that can and should be their fuel for the coming test. But be it noted that this loan of a wave is not going to be waived. Indias farmers will recover it, with interest, as is their due.

Gopalkrishna Gandhi is distinguished professor of history and politics, Ashoka University

The views expressed are personalToday let us discuss a new tendency that has made its way into Indian politics. For the first time, chiefs of regional parties are stepping out of their comfort zones in order to prove their relevance to national politics.

If this wasnt the case, Uddhav Thackeray wouldnt have visited Ayodhya and roared in favour of a Ram temple. While envisaging such a big manoeuvre, he would have realised that building the Ram temple wasnt within the capabilities of the Shiv Sena alone. The Sena chief knows his party doesnt have a significant presence outside Maharashtra. Despite this, he went ahead with the plan only to send out this message to voters in Maharashtra: We are the only flag-bearers of Hindutva. This isnt the first time the Sena has made such as claim. If you recall, Bal Thackeray, the flamboyant Sena founder, used to say while sitting at his residence Matoshree that his party activists had a big role to play in the demolition of the Babri mosque. Today the BJP, which used to be its junior partner when it came to Hindutva and Marathi pride, has appropriated this space.

Uddhav Thackeray may be upset that this role-reversal happened under his watch. He knows that if he cant change this equation in the elections next year, it may become impossible to rein in the BJP. The only way to combat this is for the Shiv Sena to prove once again that when it comes to flexing their political muscle, there still isnt any alternative to the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra. That is why Uddhav visited Ayodhya, family in tow, and gave a piece of his mind on the Ram temple issue to the BJP, its coalition partner. Before this, his partys firebrand MP Sanjay Raut had created a sensation by claiming that Shiv Sainiks had demolished the structure of the Babri mosque in 17 minutes flat. The Shiv Sena has been known to set the agenda with similar tactics. By doing this, Raut was sending out a clear message: The mosque couldnt have been demolished without the Sena and that the BJP lacks the courage needed to build the temple that the Sena possesses.

There is another trend that is worth taking note of. Till now regional parties had been using national parties only to further their own selfish goals. In Uttar Pradesh, the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party have gobbled up the entire vote bank of the Congress. Not just them, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, a number of regional satraps have employed this mantra to great effect. N Chandrababu Naidu even managed to successfully rein in both the Congress and the BJP, but Uddhav faltered on this front. Now the Sena wants course correction. That is why Thackeray played a new card in Ayodhya by welcoming non-Maharashtrians to Maharashtra. The Sena realises the number of non-Maharashtrians in the state has increased to such an extent that theyve become a vote bank. It will be interesting to see how much the Senas new-found tactics pay off in elections.

Why just the Shiv Sena, the BJP has made every other party insecure. Today the Narendra Modi-Amit Shah combine has painted the nations polity in a new hue. After preparing the ground in western India, since the time they arrived in New Delhi, the party has won elections 17 times. The BJP is ruling in 20 states at present. Not only has it gained in stature at the national level, it has also begun to smash regional fortresses one by one. This political juggernaut is making both its opponents as well as regional partners who are part of the ruling coalition, nervous. All of them are busy evolving a strategy to stop Modi.

On the other hand, the Congress, too, is working hard to regain its lost base. The party has enormously improved its position since the Gujarat elections. Rahul Gandhi has improved his brand image like never before. Rahul realises that the party needs a coalition to defeat the BJP but isnt prepared to surrender. That is why the Congress rejected the BSPs overtures in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. In the new circumstances, it has become essential for regional parties to present a new image before their voters in the states and increase the number of their seats as much as possible in the assembly and in the Parliament. Its an old political saying: The greater a partys share of seats, the greater the stake it can claim over power.

This is why, whether it is Omar Abdullah or Uddhav Thackeray, every leader is travelling away from home turf looking for opportunities to send out this message to voters. You may get to witness many such antics in the next few days.

Shashi Shekhar is editor-in-chief, Hindustan

letters@hindustantimes.comTwo days after a suspected thief was lynched in outer Delhis Aman Vihar, a video of two other men being thrashed by a mob in a separate part of the same neighbourhood emerged on Sunday. The 17-day-old video showed a group of around 40-50 people using sticks to thrash the men in the presence of a few policemen, at least one of who was seen trying to thwart the attack at one point.

Police said that the mob was agitated because the duo, along with three others, had allegedly molested two women, including a minor girl, in separate incidents during the Chhath Puja on the morning of November 14. Some of them have a long past record of harassing minor girls, snatching and robbery, said Seju P Kuruvilla, deputy commissioner of police (outer).

The short video clips of the incident also showed an associate of Kirari MLA Rituraj Govind allegedly leading the attack. The MLA has defended his associate, saying he was agitated because they had allegedly misbehaved with his sister as well. While the five suspects, including a juvenile, were booked for molestation and sent to judicial custody, the police havent registered a case against anyone in the mob.

According to the police, the most notorious among the five suspects are siblings Vikas and Monu. They live in Kirari of Aman Vihar. The police said that the people in their neighbourhood were fed up with them.

In November, local residents had met to discuss the menace of the two brothers, said a senior police officer.

On November 14, the police received a call about five men creating a ruckus at the Chhath Puja in Kiraris Hind Vihar Colony. These included the two siblings and their three friends, including a juvenile. They were caught by the public for molesting a woman and thrashed before we reached the spot, said DCP.

The subsequent probe revealed that minutes earlier they had allegedly molested another 17-year-old girl and tried to kidnap her, said the officer.

We had taken them into custody. But Vikas and one other suspect, Sandeep, tried to escape from our custody. We chased and caught them despite Vikas jumping into a drain, the DCP said.

The officer said that a mob of 40-50 people soon arrived at the spot and began thrashing Vikas and Sandeep using sticks. He denied certain media reports that the sticks used in the assault were police lathis.

One video showed the two men without shirts as the mob rained lathis on them. Sir bachao (help me), one of them pleaded with a policeman. While one policeman strolled around, another was seen making a meek effort to stop a lathi blow. Another video showed a policeman actively trying to take on a lathi-wielding man while someone in the mob urged the assailants not to strike on the head.

When HT asked Govind about people taking law into their hands, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA said that the local people are happy (with the mob action). They (arrested men) are habitual offenders, rapists and molesters. We will not compromise with dignity and respect of our women folks, said Govind.

Commenting on the incident, Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari said, The question arises that even if the men who were assaulted are criminals, who has given AAP leaders rights to take law in their own hands? Do the AAP leaders treat themselves to be the guardians of law?

Tiwari alleged that there may be a matter of personal enmity between two sides. However, the AAP MLA dismissed the allegations that his associate had personal enmity with thrashed men.Even from Indias perspective, the G20 was more than just about Prime Minister Narendra Modis address, and his two trilateral meetings (Modi-Xi-Putin and Modi-Trump-Abe). Sure, these were important meetings, and it wouldnt have escaped anyones attention that, one, this was Modi and Xis fourth meeting this year; two, that India has adroitly managed to make its own concerns for the Indo-Pacific a larger concern that also involves the US and Japan (and Australia); and three, that Indias growing closeness to the US doesnt seem to have hurt its relationship with old ally Russia. The fact that India gets to hold the G20 meeting in 2022 is also worthy of some celebration, especially because that happens to be the 75th year of Independence, but then, India would have hosted a G20 meeting sooner than later.

Which brings us to the two major issues that loomed over the G20 meeting, climate and trade. On the first, the G20 failed. The US confirmed that there would be no rethink of its decision to exit the Paris Agreement. And the communique issued at the end of the summit  analysts and government officials say it was a surprise there was even a communique  was silent on the issue. On the other, the G20 did better, which means it reluctantly acknowledged the benefits of multilateralism and global isolation. However, for perhaps the first time in recent summits, there was no mention of the risks of protectionism  at a time when many member countries have raised barriers to trade. The leaders also acknowledged that multilateralism was falling short of its objectives, which basically fits in with US President Donald Trumps belief that trade (or at the least the way it is done worldwide) is broken (or at least flawed). They promised to take steps to reform the WTO during the next meeting, in June 2019 in Japan.

Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping also met during the G20 summit, in a meeting that had implications for global trade and, therefore, also for India. The good news emanating out of that interaction is that the two sides have agreed to cease hostilities for 90 days even as they work out a trade deal. Even if one isnt forthcoming at the end of the period, the temporary truce is welcome. Indias relevance in these meetings will only increase as its economy grows. It should focus on building an alternative to multilateralism  it already seems to be doing so, with the Quad and Prime Minister Modis JAI (Japan, America, India)  and speak out, even if it is the only voice doing so, on climate.Fifty-odd days is far too short a time to take stock of the work done by a new Chief Justice of India (CJI), but given that Justice Ranjan Gogois term is just over 13 months long, it is clear he cant dawdle. And the 46th Chief Justice of India isnt . When Justice Gogoi took over as CJI, he inherited, among other problems, the complicated issue of increasing vacancies of judges in high courts, poor disposal rates of cases, and corruption in the judiciary.The first thing he did after taking over was to talk to the chief justices of the high courts, asking them to focus on getting judicial work done and on the need to combat corruption in the judiciary. He requested all chief justices that judges in the high courts not take leave during working days and remain present in court rooms all through working hours. These may be basic steps, but they do help with the disposal of cases.

The second issue that has occupied Justice Gogoi is the appointment of judges to the high courts and the Supreme Court. He has, in the short time he has been in charge, made four new appointments to the top court and cleared appointments of 68 high court judges (both have been done by the Supreme Court collegium, which he heads), which is unprecedented. He has also stressed on the importance of filling vacancies in the lower judiciary so that cases do not clog the system. A bench headed by Justice Gogoi has, suo motu, registered a petition to monitor the filling up of more than 5,000 posts that are lying vacant in the trial courts. The inadequate number of judges is one of the reasons for high pendency in the lowest rung of judiciary where over 27 million cases are still awaiting a final decision.

Cleaning up the judiciary is on his agenda too and Gogoi has told the chief justices of the high courts not to hesitate in withdrawing judicial work from judges who are under a cloud. The CJI has already ushered in administrative changes in the Supreme Court for the quick disposal of criminal appeals that are awaiting final disposal in the court for more than a decade. If the changes Justice Gogoi has ushered in are continued at least till the end of his term, there will be a sea change in the way justice is administered in the country.Bollywoods desi girl and one of our best exports to Hollywood, Priyanka Chopra is now married and the newly released pictures are proof that the wedding, as private as it was, was a fun affair for the guests and the couple. The newly married couple, Priyanka and Nick met at the Oscars 2017 After-Party and its pretty much been a whirlwind romance for the two. What was the most beautiful, however, was the union of two stark different cultures that came together to celebrate and made the wedding ceremonies a memory of a lifetime for the happy couple.

The Western ceremony on Saturday was officiated by Nicks father, Kevin Jonas Sr. PeeCees wedding gown and Nicks suit was designed by Ralph Lauren. We had shared earlier how Ralph has only designed three other wedding gowns before he agreed to do so for Priyanka. With a heartwarming story around it, Priyanka and Nicks wedding has been a match made in heaven.

While were eager to see the pictures from the wedding ceremonies, what the couple and the guests wore and the inside scoop on the complete wedding shenanigans, the pictures shared by Priyanka Chopra on her Instagram account warmed our hearts a bit more. Seeing nick adapt to the Indian rituals was so cute that we can hardly contain our happiness and glee.

via GIPHY

We loved what Priyanka wore at the haldi and sangeet ceremonies. The colourful lehenga designed by Abu-Sandeep was followed by a white and gold sequin saree. The blouse, a backless corset, was a perfect 10 match to her saree. She paired this with a heavy diamond necklace, small earrings and glitter shoes, keeping the makeup minimal and letting her saree do the talking for the actress. We got major #desigirl vibes from her blockbuster film, Dostana. The highlight was PeeCee enjoying her wedding to the tee, something that actress and Priyankas cousin, Parineeti Chopra, validated for us through a heartfelt Instagram post.

Nick wore a raw silk sherwani paired with loafers and is said to have got Priyankas name written with mehendi on his palm. If this is not the husband of the millennium part 2, then we wonder what is?!

Apart from the couple, Nicks musician brother Joe Jonas sand for them while his fiancee, Game of Thrones actress Sophie Turner and Parineeti Chopra prepared solo dance performances for them. The families got together and performed to the hit number, Gallan Goodiyaan, from the 2015 film, Dil Dhadakne Do. We agree with PeeCee when she wrote, It all began as a fierce song & dance competition between the families but ended, as always, as a huge celebration of love.

Yes, it was, and the coldest of hearts will have melted.

Follow more stories on Facebook and TwitterDonatella Versace showcased Versaces Pre-Fall 2019 collection in a star-studded show and the front row was shining with stars like Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, Diane Kruger, Mary J Blige, Blake Lively, Lupita NYongo , Bradley Cooper, Tracee Ellis Ross, Paris Jackson, 2Chainz, Ciara, Uma Thurman among others. The collection was an ode to the significant styles and themes that the Italian fashion house has celebrated over the years. Donatella is not new to the idea of experiment and taking risks. Her 2018 Pre-fall collection was all about going back to the roots. The vision of Gianni Versace has kept the brand very much in touch with the changing perceptions of fashion, accustoming new line of buyers and fashion aspirants hooked on to the new narratives that this powerful Italian label is popular for-- innovative design, symbolic extravagant prints in a an array of bold colours.

The Pre-Fall 2019 was all about revisiting the iconic moments of the brand that has been known for its provocative design elements and the style philosophy till date remains to be out-of-the-box, real and edgy. Very excited to arrive in New York for the first time, the Italian label was ready to take the city by storm with recognisable style and unmistakable personality. Kaia Gerber opened the Pre-Fall19 show wearing brown Medusa buttoned vinyl jacket with cropped knit top, matched well with a asymmetrically draped silk skirt and metal safety pin accessories, revisiting the brands pin collection from the 90s.

Apart from Gerber who in a millennial icon, Amber Valetta closed the show in a an iconic and edgy Versace silhouette made famous by JLo at the Grammys in the year 2000 and Valetta wore it as well back then only. Vittoria Ceretti sported a black safety pin dress, a garment that is not only a symbol of breaking barriers but we also saw its return in a more contemporary way. Gigi Hadid, Binx Walton, Emily Ratajkowski and Hailey Bieber among others graced the square runway as well.

The real moment arrived when models presented the new versions of the iconic safety pin dress, first worn by Elizabeth Hurley in 1994 at the premiere of Four Weddings And A Funeral and now the feel of the show was like a reinvention of the brands sultry appeal. Grace Elizabeth finally walked with the dramatic spirit of the brand over the years in a patchwork pattern silk blouse teamed up with a paisley-printed blazer, lustrous crimson side-slit skirt, perfecting the look with an inflated and embellished hairstyle, giving the idea of fantasy beauty a new goal.

The show clearly is celebration of maximalism and real in the context of fantasy beauty. The major takeaway has to be the voluminous hair and the jewelled ornaments for the magnificent hairstyles for the upcoming season. Take it from Donatella. Go big or go home.Over 50,000 people across 15 countries are suspected to have been targeted by an online fraud worth hundreds of crores in the name of I-T giant Microsoft, said investigators who have busted a string of unscrupulous call centres across Gurugram and Noida.

Gurugram and Noida police, in association with international investigating agencies such as Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Interpol and Canadas Royal Canadian Mounted police (RCMP), have so far busted as many as 17 call centres in the two cities and arrested 42 people. The probe was taken up after software giant Microsoft Corporation lodged 17 first information reports (FIRs)  eight in Gurugram and nine in Noida  on November 27.

Microsoft reported that it had been receiving complaints from users across the globe that they were targeted by online frauds who first introduced a malware into their computer systems and then offered assistance in the name of the company. They directed the users to call centres and prompted them to pay sums, ranging between 100-1000 US dollars. Some of the prominent countries from where complaints were registered with the company are United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand.

By getting remote access to victims computers, the accused stole data, identity and transmitted viruses to users systems, Microsoft said in its complaint.

On November 27, the same day as the FIRs were registered, six teams from the Gurugram crime branch and two teams from city police stations concerned conducted coordinated raids lasting over five hours at eight call centres in Udyog Vihar, Sushant Lok and Sectors 49, 18, 32, 38, 44 and 10. Eighty-three hard drives, several laptops, servers and electronic gadgets were seized.

The following day, Noida Police conducted raids in Sectors 2, 3, 6, 8, 6 and Ecotech-III, confiscating 34 hard disks, 10 DVRS, 12 servers, computers, laptops, phones, cheque books, phones and Rs 5 lakh cash from the accused along with financial details of several foreigners.

A team of over 70 officials and investigators had been working for the past four months after Microsoft complained that it was receiving thousands of complaints every month from users in foreign countries. The servers, hard drives, pen-drive and systems confiscated from raids at eight call centres in the city contain database of thousands of email ids and IP addresses who were allegedly targeted. The hard drives have been sent to a laboratory for forensic examination, said Shamsher Singh, assistant commissioner of police (Crime), Gurugram.

Singh said the exact number of victims and the amount of money siphoned off by these online criminals are yet to be estimated since it is an ongoing investigation. We are also getting a forensic audit of the seized property, ACP Singh added.

Also Read : Fake call centre in Gurugram duping US, Canada citizens busted, six held

For the moment,investigators have ruled out a common link between the call centres busted in Noida and Gurugram or if the fraud was being perpetrated by one person or organisation despite all of them using a similar method to con people.

Currently, the cases are being investigated at different police stations, but it is likely that the cyber police station will take over the cases, as the probe continues, said Singh.

Several meetings were conducted with officials from Singapore, Ireland and other countries in the probe into the scam. Gurugram police said officials from foreign law enforcement agencies had met the city police chief to present their case. Their counterparts in Noida also met the local police in October and shared action reports listing the domain address of the fake call centres that were traced to Noida, Gurugram and Delhi. Police said another meeting was held in November to discuss the plan of action and separate teams were formed.

In a related but separate development, on October 17, officials from FBI, Royal Canadian Mounted police (RCMP) and the Interpol division of the FBI had met Noida senior superintendent of police Ajay Pal Sharma to discuss the rising number of complaints against call centres active in the district that dupe foreign citizens, especially Canadians and Americans, on the pretext of providing them loans, shares and other online products.

Over the past six months, the Noida police, in association with international investigating agencies, has conducted 25 raids. Over 130 people have been arrested so far in connection with the fraud.

SSP Sharma said the complainant in all these cases was Microsoft. The company was receiving more than 10,000 complains per month that people claiming to be from their tech support were duping users. This information was passed to the FBI and some of the call centres were traced to Delhi-NCR, he said.

Microsoft officials said the a number of call centres in the two cities were allegedly engaged in tech support scams impacting individuals in at least 15 countries, primarily the US, UK, and Australia. The growth of unregulated call centres in India involved in such scams and frauds is indicative of the scale of the issue, it said. Victim reports indicate that this is a global problem, targeting victims from mostly English speaking developed countries, a company representative said.

Protecting the public and building trust in technology and internet is a top priority for Microsoft. We are committed to working with trade bodies such as NASSCOM, relevant government ministries, and law enforcement authorities, to safeguard the interests of the Indian IT industry, and educate and protect the public against such deceptive cybercrimes said Courtney Gregoire, assistant general counsel  Corporate, External and Legal Affairs(CELA), Microsoft Corporation.

Police said the accused persons used an exhaustive database of IP addresses and emails of people in foreign countries, which they had possibly purchased from online portals, to hack into the computer network or systems of unsuspecting users.

A user would receive an email with fake pop-up error messages stating that a malware had infected their computer systems and if not rectified immediately, their personal and financial data would be compromised. The pop-up messages would be displayed on full screen mode and would lock the users screen/browser, said an official from crime branch who is associated with the probe but is not authorised to speak to the media.

Police said more raids are expected to be carried out to ascertain the magnitude of the fraud. The probe is likely to be protracted involving a perusal of extensive paper trail shared by foreign law enforcement agencies and retrieved during raids, said ACP Singh.Four months ago, a team of top officials representing software giant Microsoft Corporation (India) Private Limited in different countries met Gurugram police to report a global fraud which had been hurting the company.

According to the police officials privy to the matter, teams from Singapore and Ireland gave a detailed PowerPoint presentation at Gurugram police commissioners office. The meeting was attended by officers from the cyber crime team and officials of police station concerned. The police officers were told how a string of call centres were duping people from across 15 countries in the name of the company. The police was informed that some of these call centres were operating out of Udyog Vihar and Sector 18 industrial area.

The city police launched investigation into the complaint and used data provided by the company. Officials privy to the matter said help was also taken from retired officials of intelligence agencies, who have experience in handling such matters.

We were already handling some cases in which call centre operators had duped citizens of different countries. They were operating out of small rooms in different areas of the city, said Shamsher Singh, assistant commissioner of police (crime).

Besides Gurugram and Noida police, international investigating agencies  Federal Bureau of Investigation of the US, Royal Canadian Mounted police (RCMP) and the Interpol  are involved in the investigation.

All this while the Gurugram police remained in regular touch with Microsoft officials. After a preliminary inquiry into the facts of the complaint, the police formed eight teams consisting of 40 technical experts and 50 city police officials. The teams raided eight locations and arrested 15 people late night on November 27. The same day a formal FIR was also registered by Microsoft Corporation.

As per the complaint, the accused purchased data of foreign citizens through online agents or from Delhi-based vendors. The police are trying to identify these vendors.

They used the to hack the systems and send across a pop-up (notification), saying that their system was either infected with a virus or malware. The notification contained a contact number and once the user got in touch with the accused, they would claim to be from the Microsoft technical support team and charge the customers for making their system virus free, said Singh. The users were also prompted to install an application, a bug which gave the hackers access to the users computer system. Each user was charged from 100 to 1,000 US dollars for the service.

Police said that a brokers list was also retrieved, but no conclusive evidence had come forth that money taken from users was transmitted by the call centres via hawala channels.

The money extorted from users and customers gets transmitted through hawala and used in other illegal activities around the world, the complainant had alleged in nine FIRs registered in Gurugram police stations.

The investigation also revealed that in some cases the frauds used to transfer money through gift card vouchers and later converted into dollars through an illegal process, said police. The details are being verified and corroborated against statements of the arrested accused.

The servers and other technical gadgets seized from the call centres are being sent to forensic laboratories for analysis of the data. Some of the accused also had a valid license to operate a call centre but were found to be misusing the name of a I-T prominent company to dupe the users, the police said.

By getting remote access to victims computers, the accused stole data, identity and transmitted viruses to users systems, Microsoft had said in its complaint.

However, some accused, who have been released on bail, said that there was no evidence against them and that they had been arrested on basis of a complaint by Microsoft Corporation. They said all the cases registered have the same content. We have all the licenses required to run a call centre. The police could not even justify why they had arrested us and we were bailed out the next day. If we were frauds, then why didnt the police took our remand and investigated the case, said one of the accused, on condition of anonymity.

The lawyer of the accused also said that the complainant companys officials also participated in the raids, which is against the rules. How can a complainant check the computers and servers. My client has proper license to operate a call centre and all licenses are already in place. No evidence has been found and still people were arrested, said Vishal Gupta, counsel of the accused.

The police denied the allegations and said the Microsoft team had extended support to them as they needed technical assistance in such cases .They are technically more sound and had the experts team to crack these set-ups who were duping foreign citizens, especially Canadians and Americans, on the pretext of providing them loans, technical support or others, said Singh.

Courtney Gregoire, assistant general counsel  Corporate, External and Legal Affairs(CELA), Microsoft Corporation, said, Protecting the public and building trust in technology and internet is a top priority for Microsoft. We are committed to working with trade bodies such as NASSCOM, relevant government ministries, and law enforcement authorities, to safeguard the interests of the Indian IT industry, and educate and protect the public against such deceptive cybercrimes.

Chinese Patent Granted for Biomarkers for Stem Cell Therapy

Sydney, Dec 3, 2018 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Regeneus Ltd ( ASX:RGS ) (Regeneus or the Company), a clinical-stage regenerative medicine company, is pleased to announce the State Intellectual Property Office of China has granted the Company a patent for the use of biomarkers to monitor disease progression in a patient having mesenchymal cell therapy for inflammatory conditions.- Chinese Patent to issue covers use of biomarkers to monitor disease progression for mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for inflammatory conditions- Grant of patent application No. 201480060270.X will provide commercial rights in China until 2033- Patent covers use of a broad range of allogeneic and autologous MSC therapeutics for inflammatory conditions in combination with biomarkers and is not limited to MSCs sourced from adipose tissue- Patent will provide protection for licensing the Company's Progenza allogeneic MSC therapeutics in ChinaThe granted Chinese Patent Application No. 201480060270.X, entitled "Biomarkers for cell therapy", will provide the Company with commercial rights in China until 2033.The patent covers use of a broad range of MSC therapeutics for the treatment of inflammatory conditions in combination with the biomarkers. The therapeutics include allogeneic and autologous cells where the MSCs can be sourced from any tissue type such as adipose, bone marrow or placental tissue and includes MSCs sourced from induced pluripotent stem cells and embryonic stem cells.MSCs have well recognised anti-inflammatory effects and are used and being developed to treat a range of chronic inflammatory conditions including graft versus host disease, Crohn's disease, cardiovascular disease and osteoarthritis.Biomarkers associated with inflammatory disease are a useful way to measure the effects of MSC therapies and can be analysed simply in a patient's blood or other body fluids. The patent covers the biomarkers MIF (Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor), COMP (Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein) and CTX II (crosslinked C-telopeptides of type II collagen) in MSC therapies. MIF is recognised as a key modulator in promoting and modulating the magnitude of the inflammatory response, while COMP and CTX-II are degradation products of joint tissues, especially the cartilage extracellular matrix.This patent will provide protection for licensing the Company's Progenza allogeneic stem cell therapy platform in China.There is increasing interest in China for in-licensing cell therapy technology platforms like Progenza. In December 2017, the Chinese government announced new laws to accelerate the approval pathway for cell therapy products. Under the new regime, cell therapy products will need to go through 2 clinical phases: an early phase focused on safety and a confirmatory phase to demonstrate probable efficacy. These new cell products will be available for government reimbursement.Regeneus has over 80 patents or patent applications across multiple patent families, providing the Company's product pipeline with a significant competitive advantage.About Regeneus Ltd

Regeneus Ltd (ASX:RGS) is a Sydney-based clinical-stage regenerative medicine company using stem cell technologies to develop a portfolio of novel cell-based therapies. The regenerative therapies seek to address unmet medical needs in human health markets, focusing on neuropathic pain, including osteoarthritis and various skin conditions, with its platform technologies Progenza(TM) and Sygenus. Visit www.regeneus.com.au for more information.When north Delhi resident Anil Kumar, 45, got high fever in August this year, he thought it was normal flu. He consulted a doctor when the fever didnt subside even after a couple of days.

The doctor gave me medicines and my fever came down. A few days later, however, I observed the colour of my urine had turned dark. I consulted my doctor again and he asked me to get a liver function test done, says Kumar, a civil engineer, who works for a Gurugram-based company.

Kumar was diagnosed with jaundice, and since his liver parameters were unusually off the charts, he was advised admission to a hospital.

I didnt have any pain in the abdomen or any other symptoms but since the test readings were alarming I got admitted to a local hospital. The tests confirmed viral Hepatitis E on August 12. By evening of that day I was feeling worse, he says.

The doctors recommended he be shifted to a bigger hospital after he started losing consciousness the next day.

I got admitted to BLK Hospital and investigations began and it was diagnosed that I had acute liver failure. Only 50% of my liver was functioning, he says.

Kumar recovered initially but from August 18, his condition got worse and he was advised liver transplant.

In just a span of days, my liver was so damaged that I had to undergo a liver transplant. I was shocked. I didnt know my liver was in such a bad state. I have never had any symptoms, he says.

Fortunately for Kumar, he received timely treatment and from Monday he will resume work.

What is important to note in his case is that he didnt waste time. We mostly get cases too late and that affects the treatment outcome. Time is of essence in such cases, says Dr Sanjay Singh Negi, director, department of hepato-pancreato-biliary surgery, BLK Hospital.

Its usually Hepatitis B and C thats considered more dangerous but in a small proportion of cases, even A and E can lead to rapid liver damage, he said.

Doctors say, most of the liver diseases are silent and by the time symptoms appear there is already 50% or above damage done to the liver, and cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver set in, especially in viral Hepatitis B and C.

Liver cirrhosis is one of the major contributors towards developing liver cancer.

In cirrhotic cases, tumor may develop any time. In fact, in at least 70% of the cases cirrhosis leads to liver cancer, which is one of the fastest growing cancers, says Dr SK Sarin, director, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences.

Vaccination is the key to control infection from spreading. However, there is vaccine to prevent only Hepatitis B.

Keeping in mind the magnitude of the disease, government of India also introduced Hepatitis vaccine in its Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP), to vaccinate newborns and protect them against the deadly disease.

An effective vaccination programme plays an imperative role in preventing HBV infection and is known to decrease the incidence of chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or liver cancer.

To provide protection to babies, the government is giving three primary doses of the vaccine at 6, 10 and 14 weeks, and to cut mother-to-child transmission, government had introduced the birth dose that is given within 24 hours of birth.

To protect against Hepatitis C, however, there is no vaccine but the infection can be cured with treatment that can last for three to six months. Doctors put a lot of emphasis on screening as timely treatment can prevent the liver from getting damaged beyond repair.

Since faulty lifestyle, which includes lack of exercise, increased intake of junk food and excessive alcohol consumption, is one of the contributing factors for developing Hepatitis, it will benefit to improve ones lifestyle.

Faulty lifestyle, primarily excessive alcohol in take, is one of top indications for liver transplant in India. So, people must lead a healthy lifestyle, says Dr Negi.Rohan Chand was probably too young to understand the immensity of his role when he started work on Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle. But the films long and troubled production, during which Rohan entered his teens and the film switched studios, has given him enough time to fully appreciate what Mowgli, and The Jungle Book, means to fans.

It was a really long shoot, but to be able to bring Mowgli back to his origins is great, he said. Rohan was in Mumbai to attend the world premiere - the first of its kind held for a major Hollywood film in India - along with director Andy Serkis and co-stars Christian Bale and Freida Pinto. Many people love it here, he said, and to be able to bring it back to the people who love it most is really great.

Watch our interview with Rohan Chand here

Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle had been given an October release date by Warner Bros, but weeks after the release of its first trailer, it was abruptly announced that the studio had sold its distribution rights to Netflix. It has been more than four years since Rohan was cast in the film, a passion project for Serkis. He was among the first people Serkis hugged emotionally after the premiere screening.

The numerous delays turned out to be a blessing in disguise, Rohan said. Just due to the storyline, they wanted to have me age a little bit, he said. I was 10 when I got involved with the project, but it has all been worth it.

Rohan Chand as Mowgli in the Netflix film Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle. (Netflix)

In the time it took for the films intensive visual effects to be perfected - Serkis used state-of-the-art motion capture technology for non-human characters in the film - Rohan developed a broader understanding of Rudyard Kiplings Jungle Book. Like millions of Indians, he, too, is a fan of the anime version of the story, which is immensely popular in the country, thanks in no small part to Gulzar and Vishal Bhardwajs theme song. The show lasted only 52 episodes, but its cultural impact can still be felt to this day.

The song was recreated for the Hindi version of Disneys 2016 live-action film, directed by Jon Favreau. Mowgli in that film was played by Neel Sethi, and Rohan said that it was an active decision to differentiate his take on the character from previous versions. Mowgli and I are very different people, he said. I grew up in New York and he grew up in the jungle, but I tried to find a common thread.

He particularly likes Mowglis perseverance, and believes thats what differentiates him from the other versions. He has so many obstacles thrown at him but he keeps pushing through them, and thats whats really great about him.

Andy Serkis as Baloo in the Netflix film Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle. (Netflix)

Serkis has said that his film is more in line with the dark tone of Kiplings stories, which Disney actively tried to downplay in their classic 1967 animated film with, among other changes, the addition of a popular Sherman Brothers soundtrack. There are no songs in Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle, and Serkis drill sergeant Baloo is more likely to give Mowgli a smack in the face than sing Bare Necessities to him.

There are a lot of great messages in the movie, Rohan said, but the one that spoke to me was that Mowgli doesnt fit in any world because he looks different and acts different. A lot of kids are struggling to fit in and to look a certain way, he said, but I think this (the film) tells them that they dont have to do that.

Rohan, along with stars Christian Bale (Mowglis mentor, Bagheera), Naomie Harris (his adoptive wolf mother, Nisha), Benedict Cumberbatch (the villainous Shere Khan), Freida Pinto (his adoptive human mother, Messua), Cate Blanchett (the hypnotic Kaa), and Serkis (Baloo), will be seen in Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle, on December 7, when it will be made available on Netflix. The film has been given a limited theatrical release in the UK and the US.

Follow @htshowbiz for more

The author tweets @RohanNaaharJammu and Kashmir police claimed on Monday they have busted two modules of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and arrested ten associates of the militants in south Kashmirs Pulwama district.

Police said the ten men were JeM associates and arrested from Tral and Khrew areas of Pulwama. The departments spokesperson Manoj Kumar said four people were arrested in Tral.

In view of the surge in terror attacks in Tral, in which civilians and security forces were targeted, creating an atmosphere of panic and fear, a special team was constituted to investigating these cases and on the basis of material evidence collected, four persons were taken into custody, he said.

The four have been identified as Younis Nabi Naik, Fayaz Ahmad Wani, Riyaz Ahmad Ganaie and Bilal Ahmad Rather.

Investigation into the cases revealed their complicity in the terror attacks carried out in Tral area of south Kashmir, Kumar said.

Another module was busted in Khrew area of Pampore in which six associates of JeM were arrested on the basis of incriminating material recovered. The spokesperson identified them as Javaid Ahmad Parray, Yasir Bashir Wani, Tahir Yousuf Lone, Rafiq Ahmad Bhat, Javaid Ahmad Khanday and Imran Nazir.

Huge quantity of incriminating material was recovered from this terror module, including gelatin sticks, detonators, materials for making IEDs and grenades. All the incriminating materials have been taken in case records to probe their complicity in other terror crimes, Kumar said.

Last month was also the bloodiest month of this year for the insurgents as 37 militants were killed in gun battles with security forces across Kashmir. Among the militants killed in November, nine were top commanders, including Lashkar-e-Taibas face Naveed Jatt, who was shot dead last Wednesday in Budgam district.

Official data shows 227 militants have been killed in different parts of Kashmir so far this year. While they belonged to different organisations, the Lashkar and Hizbul Mujahideen suffered major losses last month as both groups lost some of their top commanders, especially in south Kashmir, which has become a hotbed of militancy.

Last year, 207 militants were killed in this period.Two BJP members and a police sub-inspector were among four of the five accused arrested in connection with the exam paper leak of police constable recruitment test in Gujarats Ahmedabad on Monday.

Sub-inspector P V Patel, BJP members Mukesh Chaudhary and Manhar Patel and Rupal Sharma, a private hostel owner, were arrested after a complaint was filed in the morning.

Yashpal Solanki, an employee of Vadodara Municipal Corporation, is yet to be arrested, police said.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is ruling Gujarat and the Centre, suspended Mukesh Chaudhary and Manhar Patel.

The exam was cancelled hours before it was scheduled to be held on Sunday after the question paper was leaked on social media.

As many as 8.75 lakh candidates were scheduled to appear for the exam which was to start at 3 pm at 2,440 centres across Gujarat.

Chief minister Vijay Rupani had directed the home department to take immediate action. However, opposition Congress has demanded setting up of an SIT under a sitting high court judge, alleging that people of the ruling party are behind the incident.The Central government on Monday refuted speculation that it was planning to appoint a police officer as an officer on special duty or a senior IAS officer to oversee the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

A statement issued by the personnel ministry on Monday said reports that the government was considering the two options to end the alleged policy paralysis in CBI are absolutely false.

The Government of India strongly refutes this imputation. It is clarified that the Government has taken the step of divesting the present Director and Special Director of the CBI of their powers under section 4(2) of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946 as an interim measure, the statement said.

It further went on to say that since the matter was sub judice before the Supreme Court, any action that is to be taken will be strictly in accordance with the decision of the Honble Supreme Court of India in the pending proceedings and not before the Honble Supreme Court decides the matter.

Read: Former, current executives of IIDL face charges for favouring a firm

The Supreme Court is hearing two petitions - one by Alok Verma and the second by a non-profit organization Common Cause -- on whether the move to strip the CBI director of his responsibilities was legal.

The controversy stems from a feud between director Alok Verma and special director Rakesh Asthana, the agencys two top officers who have accused each other of corruption. Both were removed in a midnight drama on October 23 after the battle between the two threw the agency into chaos.

The government asked M Nageswar Rao, a 1986-batch Orissa cadre officer and the senior-most joint director of the Central Bureau of Investigation, to look after the duties and functions of the CBI director.

Meanwhile, Verma had gone to the Supreme Court to challenge the legality of his removal. While hearing his petition, the court had asked the Central Vigilance Commission, which was probing a complaint against Verma by Asthana, to complete the investigation within two weeks.

Also Read: Chandrababu Naidu accuses NDA govt of using CBI, IT to harass rivals, create fear

In his petition, Verma has challenged the grounds on which he was sidelined and said the move was patently illegal and an attempt to undermine the federal agencys independence.

The petition by Common Cause, filed by advocate Prasanth Bhushan, said the CVCs October 23 recommendation by which Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) divested Verma of his powers were for malafide reasons and should be quashed. The chain of events shows that Verma is being victimised for taking action against Asthana, a Gujarat cadre officer, and also for entertaining complaint against the top functionaries of the present government, stated the petition.

The Supreme court is scheduled to hear the case again on December 5.The Maharashtra government on Monday opposed the bail application of advocate Surendra Gadling and others who were arrested for alleged Maoist links, saying that the charges against them are very serious.

Gadling was arrested along with Shoma Sen, Sudhir Dhawale, Rona Wilson and Mahesh Raut by the Pune police on June 6 for their alleged links with CPI (Maoist) which the investigation agency believes contributed to the January 1 violence at Koregaon Bhima.

The Supreme Court directed the state government to submit the charge sheet filed against the arrested rights activists by December 8, and adjourned the matter to December 11.

The state government told the apex court that the charges against the accused are serious and bail cannot be granted due to technicalities.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it wanted to see the charges against the accused on an appeal of the state government against a Bombay High Court order refusing to extend the time limit of 90 days for filing the probe report.

Earlier, seeking bail, Gadling had told a sessions court in Pune that the prosecution wants to muzzle the voice of lawyers, who represent Indian association of peoples lawyers, which in the past have taken up cases of those accused of Maoist links.A police inspector, who had been the investigating officer in the Akhlaq lynching case of Dadri in 2015, and a 21-year-old villager died of gunshot wounds as a mob went on the rampage while protesting against alleged illegal cow slaughter in Bulandshahr district of western Uttar Pradesh on Monday, police and district administration officials said. Police said villagers opened fire during the violence.

Five police personnel, including a circle officer, were also injured.

The state government has ordered an SIT probe, besides inquiry by the additional director general (intelligence) and a magisterial probe, ADG (law and order) Anand Kumar said in Lucknow.

The separate probes were announced after chief minister Yogi Adityanath expressed displeasure over the incident and condoled the loss of lives. Additional forces have been rushed to the trouble spot.

Additional director general of police, Meerut zone, Prashant Kumar said the protesters pelted police with stones and indulged in arson, setting several vehicles and the Chingarwathi police outpost on fire.

Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh, station house officer of Syana police station, died due to a bullet injury in his left eyebrow, said ADG Anand Kumar. Singh was the investigating officer in the Akhlaq lynching case of Dadri from September 28, 2015 till November 9, 2015, said Kumar, replying to a query raised by some media persons.

However, a different IO had filed the charge sheet in the Akhlaq case in March 2016.

About the death of local youth Sumit, 21, Kumar said, Initial reports from the Meerut hospital, where the boy was rushed, indicate entry and exit of wounds of a bullet.

The mob torched 10 vehicles, including those of the police. (HT Photo)

However, only after post mortem examination will it be clear whether the wound was from a bullet fired by cops or by locals, he added. The trouble began after villagers recovered cow carcasses in Mahaw village, Kumar said.

Protesters from Mahaw, Chingarwathi and Nai Bash villages dumped the carcasses on a tractor-trolley and blocked the Bulandshahr-Garh highway under Syana police station, he said.

Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh reached the spot, along with other police personnel, and pacified villagers. Initially, the issue was resolved and villagers were assured of a thorough probe, he added.

But the violence flared up when police tried to clear the road blockade and remove the protestors, he said.

There was heavy brick-batting by villagers. When cops resorted to a cane charge, villagers opened fire with country-made guns. In order to control the situation, police opened fire in the air to disperse the mob, the ADG said. In the ensuing violence, SHO Subodh Kumar Singh was injured and rushed to a hospital in Bulandshahr where he died.

The mob torched 10 vehicles, including those of the police.

Bulandshahar district magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha also confirmed the inspectors death. An FIR was lodged against seven people, whose names have not been disclosed, he added. Senior superintendent of police KB Singh said heavy police force was deployed in the area to bring the situation under control.

The district magistrate said police had to open fire in self-defence. Meerut divisional commissioner Aneeta C Meshram said she was rushing to the spot to take stock of the situation.A police inspector and a villager were killed after protests over alleged cow slaughter swirled out of control in UPs Bulandshahr and a mob attacked security personnel who opened fire during the melee, officials said on Monday.

Protesters clashed with securitymen and set their vehicles and a police post on fire in the three-hour rampage after reports of the recovery of carcasses at Mahaw village on Sunday night, said Prashant Kumar, the additional director general of police (Meerut zone).

Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh died of injuries, probably caused by a blunt object, he said. However, later, district magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha said Singh died of gunshots.

Singh was part of the initial investigation into the murder of Mohammad Akhlaq, a resident of Uttar Pradeshs Dadri village who was lynched by a mob in September 2015 over another incident of alleged cow slaughter. A 21-year-old man, identified as Sumit, too, died after being hit by bullets, but police said only a post-mortem would reveal if the shots were fired by the forces.

Five officials, including a circle officer, were wounded in the clashes that began around 11am just 130km from New Delhi. Soon, they spread to nearby villages.

The state government, which faced attacks by Opposition parties, ordered three separate probes into the violence.

The probes ordered were a special investigation team probe, an inquiry by the additional director general (intelligence) and a magisterial investigation, said Anand Kumar, the additional director general of police (law and order) in Lucknow.

This morning, carcasses of the cows were found dumped in a forest area outside the village. Activists of right-wing organisations soon gathered at the spot and alleged that people of a community were indulging in cow slaughter, he said.

Protesters started gathering at Mahaw and nearby areas early on Monday. They brought the carcasses that, they said, were of a cow and a calf to a police outpost 2km away on a tractor and demanded action against those guilty of killing the animals.

Cow slaughter is banned in many Indian states, including Uttar Pradesh, because Hindus consider it a sacred animal.There have been multiple cases of lynchings over alleged cow slaughter and illegal cow transportation reported over the past few years from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and other parts of North India.

An estimated 400 protesters shouted slogans against police and blocked the BulandshahrGarh highway. Officials tried to pacify the group but the protesters refused to budge, said the district magistrate.

Soon after, a mob went on the rampage, pelting policemen with stones and indulging in arson. Jha said police had to open fire in self-defence.

Expressing grief over the incident, chief minister Yogi Adityanath, who was in Rajasthan for election campaign, said action will be taken against the guilty after the probe reports were received. He also said financial assistance would be given to affected persons.

Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC) president Raj Babbar said, Yogi is busy making tall claims about the situation in his state whenever he is visiting other states. In UP, the situation, however, has gone from bad to worse... the people, including the policemen, are not safe.

Samajwadi Party (SP) national president Akhilesh Yadav called the Bulandshahr incident unfortunate. Ever since this government came to power, policing has collapsed, he said. The murder of the police inspector proves that UP is under jungle raj.Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin will meet former Congress president Sonia Gandhi in New Delhi on December 10 to invite her for a ceremony to unveil statues of former Tamil Nadu chief ministers Muthuvel Karunanidhi and CN Annadurai.

Gandhi has already indicated that she would attend the ceremony on December 16, a DMK Parliament member said on condition of anonymity, adding that the invite is a mere formality.

Stalin will meet Gandhi, who heads the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance, when he will be in New Delhi for the meeting of opposition parties on December 10 at Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader Nara Chandrababu Naidus invitation.

(Naidu) has invited Stalin to work with him for dethroning the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party)... the lawmaker said and pointed out that Karunanidhi, who passed away in August, and Gandhi shared an excellent rapport. Those discussions will continue during Gandhis visit, this person added.

The DMK has also invited the leaders of the Trinamool Congress, Communist Party of India (Marxist), Communist Party of India, TDP, Janata Dal (Secular), Nationalist Congress Party, Telugu Rashtriya Samiti and Aam Admi Party for the ceremony at its headquarters  Anna Arivalyam. It will be the second platform for uniting the opposition parties to take on the BJP after the New Delhi meeting.

Tamil Nadu has the most number of Lok Sabha seats, 39, after Uttar Pradesh (80), Maharashtra (48), West Bengal (42) and Bihar (40). The DMK and Congress have been in alliance in the state along with some smaller regional parties and are likely to contest the upcoming polls together.

DMKs arch-rival, All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, swept the Lok Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu and won 37 seats in 2014. The Congress and DMK contested separately and failed to win any seats while the BJP and its alliance partner, Pattali Makkal Katchi, managed one each.

After Karunanidhis demise on August 7, the DMK general body and the executive committee selected his younger son, Stalin, as DMK president. Stalin has to prove his political acumen, and is engaging with national leaders, said former Gandhigram Rural Institute professor G Palanithurai.

Therefore, he is attending the opposition parties meeting in New Delhi and has also called them for the statues unveiling function in Chennai as a show of strength.Former Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dipak Misra on Monday said he would not respond to comments of his colleague and retired judge of the Supreme Court Justice Kurian Joseph, one of the four judges who held a press conference airing their grievances against Misra in January, that there was concern that the CJI was allocating cases to judges with a particular political bias and also perhaps acting under the influence of external forces.

The Congress, the countrys principal Opposition party, expressed grave apprehension of the party and of the country over the interference with the highest levels of judiciary.

A Supreme Court judge who demitted office a couple of days ago has in clear and unequivocal terms talked of the arbitrary bench selection, external influences,by implication remote controls and political biases. Our allegation is that these are injected into the system by the Government of India, by the ruling party, said senior Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi.

Justice Joseph retired on November 29.

Singhvi added that his party demanded an immediate response from the Prime Minister and said this government has become known for ...erosion of ... CBI, the Lokpal, the CIC, of Universities and above all, now as it happens from this statement, the Supreme Court of India.

Justice Misra, who was CJI between August 2017 and October 2018, declined to speak to Hindustan Times, and excused himself.

On Monday, Justice Joseph said: There was a general perception among the judges that Justice Misra was acting under some external influence and he was not independent. We (Justice J Chelameswar, Justice Ranjan Gogoi, Justice Madan B Lokur, and Joseph himself) kept on telling him, wrote to him, met him also, but when our repeated exhortations to him to take corrective measure did not yield any result, we were forced us to hold the press conference.

Justice Joseph added: We made it clear to Justice Misra that the decisions that he was taking dont seem to be independent. There was no positive response at all to what we told him or asked him. He kept allotting cases selectively to selective judges with political bias.

Still, Justice Jospeh said that the press conference did yield some results.

In Justice Misras time, things started moving, he took several steps, there were better discussions in collegiums meetings, information was shared, transparency was better. There was a bit of unrest immediately after the presser but people understood later, why we did this. There was no bitterness between Justice Misra and us thereafter. We met [the] CJI regularly and also at social events, said Justice Joseph.

Taking about the aftermath of the press conference, Justice Joseph said, After the press conference, attempts were made by brother judges also to bring about corrective steps. One step was to set up a committee of future CJIs to take decision in an institutional manner rather than by an individual judge. However such a committee was not formed. Justice Misra did not agree [to this].

BetEasy signs Agreement with The BetMakers

Sydney, Dec 3, 2018 AEST (ABN Newswire) - The BetMakers Holdings Limited ( ASX:TBH ) ("Company") is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Global Betting Services Pty Ltd ("GBS"), has extended and upgraded its Agreement with Australian wagering operator BetEasy Pty Ltd ("BetEasy") for a further 3 years.Highlights- TBH signs Agreement with Australian wagering operator BetEasy- Extended deal begins immediately- Update to PlayUp transaction for sale of retail assetsBetEasy is licensed in Australia's Northern Territory and majority owned by The Stars Group.www.beteasy.com.auWhile the commercial terms are confidential, the Agreement continues to push the Company to its forecasted cash flow positive 2019 goal.CEO of The BetMakers Todd Buckingham said: "The contact extensions from BetEasy as well as the previously announced deal with William Hill Global show the importance of The BetMakers offering towagering operators globally."Retail transaction updateThe Company would like to advise it has received the next instalment in full, from PlayUp Australia Pty Limited of $750,000 in line with its agreement. Payment was received on Friday 30 November by the way of cheque.The remaining $2 million is payable to the Company on or by 31 December 2018.About Betmakers Technology Group Ltd

Betmakers Technology Group Ltd (ASX:BET) (OTCMKTS:TPBTF) is an ASX-listed holding company and a global provider of online wagering products and services to both wholesale and retail markets through its various wholly owned subsidiaries. The Company operates a retail wagering business, offering consumers wagering, fantasy tournament and content products and services.Scientists at the Indian Institute of Technology-Kanpur (IIT-K) said on Monday they have developed textile-based metamaterials that can help defence personnel and vehicles avoid being detected by enemy radars.

The project was supported by the Defence Research Development Organisation, the department of science and technology, and IIT-K. It was carried out by Kumar Vaibhav Srivastava of the electrical engineering department and J Ramkumar of the mechanical engineering department of the institute.

They said the material can be used as uniforms for personnel and skirting or covering ground vehicles to avoid their detection by the enemys advanced battlefield radars, motion-detecting ground sensors and thermal imaging systems. The material is flexible and can be customised for different climates, they added.

In a major achievement, we have designed and produced micro-structured infra-red metamaterials with processes that can be readily scaled for mass production to cover large area surfaces. These infra-red metamaterials are applied on any given surface to reduce the thermal emission to create infra-red stealth, professor S Anantha Ramakrishna of the department of physics at IIT-K said.

Transparent meta-material absorbers have also been developed for vehicular windshields or a canopy of slow aircraft like helicopters.

We are also in the process of developing robust meta-materials for radar stealth which can be applied on high-speed aircraft and switchable meta-materials for active camouflage applications, Ramakrishna said.

He said at the beginning of the 21st century, new composite micro-structured materials called meta-materials were found to have very unexpected properties due to their specific structure that caused resonant interactions with electromagnetic waves.

Ramakrishna said they began working on defence applications of metamaterials, which will reduce radar detection in most radar bands, around 2010.

Stealth fighter aircraft were already in use but they used very different concepts and heavy ceramic ferrites for achieving stealth. Meta-material based absorbers held the promise of lightweight, ultra-thin and flexible materials that could be applied literally on any surface to give the required properties at radar frequencies, infra-red frequencies or even optical frequencies, he said.

The professor said they have also been able to realise metamaterials for infra-red light that will enable forces to completely control the emission of infra-red light from surfaces, which can be used for infra-red stealth.

Laboratory level development of demonstrations has been completed and now we are proceeding for field testing, he said.Tension prevailed in Jammu and Kashmirs Kathua district on Monday after a mob set a truck on fire, alleging that it was being used to smuggle cattle and blocked the Jammu-Pathankot national highway, prompting the police to use mild lathi charge to disperse the crowd.

According to the reports, the truck was moving in Hiranagars Ghagwal village in the wee hours of Monday, when locals got suspicious and signalled the driver to stop. However, police said, the driver accelerated and tried to flee. After moving a few kilometres the truck got trapped at Pathwal village and nine cows and buffaloes were found inside it, an official said. The truck was set ablaze after rescuing the animals, he added.

Also read: Cop killed in Bulandshahr mob violence was shot in the head, UP sets up special team

The police said the driver and the conductor of the truck abandoned it up on noticing the mob and escaped.

Soon, the protesters blocked the main road demanding stern action and immediate arrest of both the accused, alleging that bovine smuggling was going on unabated in the area. Later, the protesters carried out a march from Pathwal village to Dayalachak in Jammu.

As the crowd swelled and blocked the national highway, police resorted to lathi charge and tear gas shells were used to disperse the crowd. A few protesters have suffered minor injuries in the incident, said police. The protest was called off after the police assured speedy action against the culprits, said the official.

Meanwhile, in nearby Samba district, police arrested two alleged cattle smugglers and rescued 16 bovines.The armed forces have made progress in enhancing jointmanship but the Indian Air Force (IAF) is opposed to the creation of theatre commands, Indias senior-most military commander said on Monday.

Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, who is also the chairman of the chiefs of staff committee (COSC), said: The three services are not in agreement on theatre commands. The IAF is not in agreement.

IAFs resistance to the idea is well known but an explicit acknowledgment of that opposition by a service chief is rare.

Theaterisation refers to placing specific units of the army, the navy and the air force under a Theatre Commander. Such commands will come under the operational control of an officer from any of the three services, depending on the function assigned to that command. Experts believe that theatres are key to the way battles will be fought in the future.

Lanba was responding to a question on a December 2 Hindustan Times report, in which Lieutenant General Satish Dua, who was the top military officer handling all tri-service affairs until October 31 this year, said that the existing structure for cross-service cooperation was weak and jointmanship was proceeding slowly, resulting in duplication of efforts, wastage of resources, and delay in decision-making.

Air Marshal KK Nohwar (retd), director general, Centre for Air Power Studies, said the IAF would lose its flexibility if it was confined to a theatre.

The IAF can operate from anywhere, given the range and capabilities of its assets. Exercise Gagan Shakti, conducted by the IAF earlier this year, proved that fighters could take off from a base in the east, strike targets in the Arabian Sea and land at bases in the south, Nohwar said, rejecting theaterisation.

An IAF spokesperson declined to comment.

Lanba admitted there was room to move forward on jointmanship or a degree of co-ordination and integration in terms of strategy, capabilities and execution across the three services.

The navy chief said India needed to create a higher defence organisation (HDO) for an integrated approach before the military could theaterise.

Theres a need for an operational commander to look after the theatres The three service chiefs cannot be theatre commanders. We need one operational commander. You can call him permanent chairman, COSC or the chief of defence staff. We first need an HDO before we can think of theatre commands, Lanba said at his customary press briefing ahead of Navy Day on December 4.

Lanba said the three services had finally agreed on a permanent chairman, COSC, what his role and responsibilities should be, and forwarded the proposal to the defence ministry. As of now, the chairmanship of the COSC rotates and the senior-most service chief holds the charge.

General Dua, who retired as chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee, made a strong case for the appointment of a permanent chairman, COSC, during a presentation made to Prime

Minister Narendra Modi at the Combined Commanders Conference in Dehradun in January 2017.

I said, please give us a permanent chairman. The COSC has a consensus approach. Who can understand it better than you, PM sir, that this approach is like a common minimum programme (CMP) of a coalition. Indias security cant be left to a CMP, Dua said in an interview to Hindustan Times.

With increasing theaterisation, a permanent chairman, COSC would effectively become a Chief of Defence Staff, the need for which was highlighted by the Kargil Review Committee in its report in the year 2000 as well as a ministerial group that studied the report.

Lanba said the proposal was being examined by the government.

We have come a long way from where we were earlier in terms of jointmanship. I have been fortunate that my two colleagues, the army chief and the IAF chief, have worked together and havent had any differences till date. We have overruled our individual headquarters to take jointmanship forward, Lanba said.

A defence ministry spokesperson said integration among the armed forces was a priority for the government.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday hit back at Congress president Rahul Gandhi, saying the PMs knowledge of Hinduism was not an election issue in Rajasthan and that the Congress was busy trying to rake up religion rather than talk about development in its election campaign.

Speaking at an election rally in Jodhpur, Modi said a naamdar (dynast) appeared to be claiming to know all about Hinduism when even saints dont make such an argument because of the vast knowledge and heritage associated with Hinduism.

Only naamdar can claim that, but not a small kaamdar [worker] like me, Modi said at the rally without naming Gandhi.

Two days ago, Gandhi said in Udaipur that the Prime Minister says he is a Hindu, but he doesnt understand [the] foundation of Hinduism. What kind of a Hindu is he?

Reacting to the Congress leaders comment, Modi asked at a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) event: Does Rajasthan want to vote on issues of road, water and electricity or on whether Modi has the knowledge of Hinduism?

He said though the opposition party appeared to be carrying the flag of Hinduism nowadays, the previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) told the Supreme Court in a written submission that Lord Rama was a fictional character and there was no historical proof that he existed.

Continuing with his attack on the Nehru-Gandhi family, Modi said the countrys first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, did nothing for the restoration of Somnath temple but objected to the then president Rajendra Prasads visit to the shrine after it got reconstructed by Sardar Patel.

Modi also said the more the rivals indulge in mud-slinging, the more the lotus (BJPs election symbol) will bloom.

Rajasthan will not accept the Congress lies... If the Congress believes that people will pawn the state for five years then that era is over now, he said in the state that votes on December 7. Results for Rajasthan, along with four other states, will be declared on December 11.

He said those talking about Hinduism will have to be accountable for the rule of four generations of one family.

People in the Congress believe that they dont have to do anything in politics and talking about development is senseless. They work to set their caste equations right and manage contractors of votes to keep themselves going, he said.

Rajasthan Congress spokesperson Satyendra Raghav said it was BJP leaders who talked about religion and Hinduism. Rahul Gandhi is talking about farmers and the youth, but BJP leaders, as always, are harping on issues such as religion, caste and Ram Mandir during the election time.Days after the apex Japan-India-America (JAI) tri-lateral meeting on Indo-Pacific on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires, defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman will be visiting the US Indo-Pacific Command in Hawaii to review military-to-military relations and chart the course for the first ever India-US tri-service military exercise off in Bay of Bengal in May-June, 2019. Defence minister Sitharaman left for Washington on Saturday night.

According to Indian and US diplomats familiar with the agenda of her visit, Sitharaman will be meeting her US counterpart James Mattis on December 3 to follow-up on the tri-lateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Donald Trump and Japanese Premier Shinzo Abe and prepare grounds for sharing of information in the Indo-Pacific theatre through the secure COMCASA network. India recently signed a deal allowing it to become part of this network. With Japan, the US, Australia, and India all flying the P-8I anti-submarine surveillance aircraft, the Indo-Pacific theatre has become transparent for the QUAD grouping (of which these four countries are part) also as military information can now be exchanged through the secure network. This new network will be put to test during the tri-service amphibious exercise off the Indian seaboard next summer with all elements of Indo-Pacific command participating with their respective Indian military elements.

Senior government officials told Hindustan Times that Sitharaman will be interacting with key defence officials, thinkers and strategists on the west coast where she will be meeting a select group at Stanford university with former US National Security Advisor H R McMaster being the host. US Defence Secretary Mattis is also part of this network. She will also be visiting the highly rated Defence Innovation Unit (DIUx) in California in a bid to link Indian defence startups with this unit which aims to explore synergies between innovative US private sector firms and the Pentagon on latest technologies.

This will be largely funded by venture capital with Indian government providing the seed money. The main idea behind visiting DIUx is to understand the potential of constant technological upgrades achieved through research by private sector.

Sitharaman will be hosted by Admiral Phillip S Davidson, the top commander of all US armed forces in Indo-Pacific at Hawaii on December 6. The Ministers visit to Hawaii is to recognize the American

effort to redefine and expand the strategic region in consultation withIndia. Simply put, the new definition gives India bigger play in the military affairs of the region with Japan and Australia being the other ends of the strategic grouping. The minister will also review the military to military exercises planned in future and discuss the strategic environment in the region with China in the focus.

During her meeting with Secretary Mattis at Pentagon, Sitharaman will also be exploring the acquisition of high-end military technologies for India such as the Predator-B hunter killer drone and reviewing the joint working groups on aircraft carriers and aircraft engines.Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba has said that there was no failure in coastal security construct in the killing of American tourist John Allen Chau by the Sentinel tribe in Andaman islands.

I dont see this as failure of coastal security construct, Lanba said on being asked about the killing.

He came as tourist in Andaman and Nicobar islands and had requisite permissions to be there, the Navy chief said, adding that the case is being investigated by the Andaman and Nicobar Command police.

Chau was killed by arrows shot by a protected tribe on North Sentinel island in the Andaman islands. His body is yet to be retrieved.

The Sentinelese guard their territory fiercely and are the most isolated among the native tribal groups that inhabit the Andaman islands and are protected by Indian laws which ban any contact with the indigenous people.

Also read: Chau violated every rule in the book to meet the SentineleseThe governments decision to ban high-value currency notes did not reduce the use of black money in elections, former chief election commissioner OP Rawat told news agency ANI on Monday. Rawat, who demitted office last week, said it was thought that demonetisation would bring down the misuse of money in elections.

But the election commissions data on the seizure of money hasnt supported this contention. Compared to previous elections, there were more seizures of cash in the same states, Rawat said.

It seems political class and their financiers have no dearth of money. Money used in this manner, is generally black money. As far as black money used in election is concerned, there was no check on it, the former chief of the poll panel told ANI.

Days before his term ended on 1 December, Rawat counted curbing influence of money on elections as one of the key thrust areas for the commission. In an interview to Hindustan Times, he had underlined that every penny going to political parties as donations should be accounted for.

We feel all donations should be made known, no matter how small the denomination. It cannot be permitted that 100% donation is coming in small denomination because that encourages black money and money from unethical sources, he had said.Pakistans Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday blamed his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj for deliberately distorting his comments on the religious sentiments of Sikhs in what has escalated into a war of words on Twitter between the two foreign ministers.

The exchange started after Qureshi, a day after the Kartarpur corridor ground-breaking ceremony on November 28, said Prime Minister Imran Khan had put India in a conundrum with the move to open the route to the Sikh shrine. PM Imran had bowled a googly at India by opening the Kartarpur border corridor, Qureshi said.

Two days later, on December 1, Swaraj shot back, saying that India was not trapped by Pakistans googlies. Mr Foreign Minister of Pakistan  Your googly remarks in a dramatic manner has exposed none but YOU. This shows that you have no respect for Sikh sentiments. You only play googlies, she tweeted.

Our two Sikh Ministers went to Kartarpur Sahib to offer prayers in the Holy Gurudwara, the Indian external affairs minister tweeted later, referring to Union ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri making the trip across the border.

In response to Swaraj, the Pakistani foreign minister on Sunday said that on Sunday that connecting his comments to Sikh sentiments was a deliberate attempt to misrepresent & mislead.

Read: Kartarpur Corridor has huge trade possibilities, says Navjot Sidhu

What I said was strictly with reference to bilateral interaction with the Indian government. We have deep respect for Sikh sentiments and no amount of distortions or controversies would change it, Qureshi tweeted.

He further said, In deference to the long-standing desires of our Sikh brethren, we decided to open the Kartarpur corridor. We have taken this historic initiative in good faith and will carry it forward in good faith.

Pakistan has spoken about the relentless negative propaganda campaign being waged by a section of the Indian media against its initiative of opening the Kartarpur corridor for Sikh pilgrims. Pakistans foreign office spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said Indian medias coverage attributing the opening of the visa-free corridor to any other motive is purely malicious.

Read: Mehbooba Mufti writes to PM Modi seeking Kartarpur-type corridor to Sharda Peeth

The Kartarpur Corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistans Kartarpur, the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev, with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Indias Gurdaspur district.

The corridor, expected to be completed in six months, will facilitate visa-free travel of Indian Sikh pilgrims who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in KartarpurIn a Cabinet meeting held in Chandigarh today, the Punjab government steered clear of discussing the Navjot Singh Sidhus contentious Rahul my captain remark while taking a series of wide-ranging decisions.

The Punjab Cabinet cleared the proposal to set up an international airport at Halwara in Punjabs Ludhiana district. The airport will be set up on 135 acres of land in coordination with the Airports Authority of India, sources said.

In keeping with the Kartarpur Corridor plans announced earlier by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, the Cabinet also passed the proposal to set up a Dera Baba Nanak Development Authority. It was also decided that the Punjab Assemblys 2018 winter session will be held between December 13 and 15.

Among the other decisions taken today in the cabinet meeting were

Ministers Tript Rajinder Bajwa and Rana Gurmeet Singh Sodhi who had said Sidhu should step down and the issue will be raised in the cabinet meeting too did not bring it up. Two other ministers Sukhbinder Sarkaria and Sadhu Singh Dharamsot had on Saturday demanded Sidhus resignation. The four ministers had on Sunday hit out at Sidhu and demanded that he apologise.

Sidhu, who is busy campaigning in Rajasthan, was not present at the meeting. According to a senior Congress leader, the party is trying to defuse the situation and raising it in the cabinet could have flared up the matter. When asked if he had been asked by the party high command to retract his statement and apologise to the CM, a defiant Sidhu on Monday said, No. I have done nothing wrong.

A cabinet minister said it was not fair to target Sidhu in his absence. No minister raised it. And not a word was spoken on the matter, he said.For 37-year-old Dharambir Das, a mental hospital in Bengals Berhampore district was home for two years. On Friday night, he was put by the local police on a train to New Delhi, bringing to an end a story that could well have been scripted in Bollywood.

Das, a resident of Khoh village in Rajasthans Bharatpur district , was found wandering aimlessly near Azimgunj railway station in Murshidabad, West Bengal, in September 2016.

Till a few weeks ago, he could not remember who he was.

When he was found, Das was speaking his dialect and some Hindi words, but nothing he said made sense to the local people. He could not even remember his name or where he came from, said the officer-in-charge of Jiagunj police station Abhijit Basu Mallick.

We realised that he needs treatment and asked a Lalbagh court to allow us to take him to Berhampore mental hospital. Our appeal was granted. We admitted Das in hospital on October 29, 2016, he added.

Das did not respond to treatment for over a year. His condition started improving only this January. He told the doctors that was from a village in Bharatpur.

On November 19, the hospital authorities told us that Das was feeling much better and we could meet him. Based on what Das told us, we contacted the Lakshmangarh police station in Rajasthan. The Rajasthan police helped us contact Dass mother... in Kafanwada village, the officer said.

The family, who thought they would never see Das again, were stunned at hearing that he was well.

Ajay Kumar, his brother-in-law who came to take him home, said Das went to Delhi in 2015 to work as labourer at a construction site. But he went missing in 2016.

Our family will always be grateful to Murshidabad police for taking care of Dharambir for two years, said Ajay Kumar.

The police, on their part, said they are happy their patience has been rewarded.

Accelerated Mining and Gold Production

Perth, Dec 4, 2018 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Emmerson Resources Limited ( ASX:ERM ) announces accelerated Mining and Gold Production.Highlights- Territory Resources Limited (Territory) purchase the Edna Beryl Mining Company (EBMC) as part of the larger Strategic Alliance with Emmerson.- Immediate plans to develop and re-commence mining the high-grade gold ores from the Tribute Area, with Emmerson and Territory executing a revised Tribute Agreement under the same terms, whereby Emmerson receives 12% of the produced gold.- Subject to Territory achieving certain performance hurdles, the Tribute Area will be expanded under the same commercial terms.- Emmerson to retain 100% ownership of the underlying mining tenement, with Territory the new registered Operator of the mining lease.- Emmerson has received approval from the Northern Territory Government for additional dewatering capacity, allowing extension and additional development of the Edna Beryl Mine.- Under the renewed Tribute Agreement, Territory is responsible for establishing an underground exploration drive to provide Emmerson with multiple sites for drilling, with the potential to greatly expand the mineralisation.Emmerson's Managing Director; Mr Rob Bills commented:"The purchase of the EBMC by Territory is a fantastic outcome for all concerned as it provides a quick route to the mining of high-grade gold. Establishing for the first time, commercial production from the Edna Beryl Mine via the refurbished Warrego Mill or third-party processing routes.We thank the NT Government for the timely approval of our recent Mine Management Plan, which provides for additional dewatering capacity from the underground workings. This is instrumental in extending the underground development and establishing an exploration drive - providing an effective platform to drill test the multiple, subparallel ironstonessome of which have yielded extremely high-grade gold from surface drilling.Also noting that high-density fan drilling from underground was instrumental to discovery in many of the famous historic mines across the Tennant Creek Field.This development and exploration strategy significantly de-risks the future for Emmerson shareholders, in generating early cash flow and providing a better understanding of the orebody. Furthermore, the recently announced Mining Joint Venture with Territory is aimed at scaling this strategy across Emmerson's other small mines within the Southern Project Area, whereby Emmerson retains either a profit share or gold royalty.Emmerson will continue to apply its expertise as exploration manager across the entire Tennant Creek Mineral Field, including the 100% owned Northern Project Area which hosts the Edna Beryl Mine and the recent discovery at Mauretania"Quotes from the Minister for Primary Industry and Resources, Ken Vowles:"Creating local jobs is this Government's number one priority."Tennant Creek has a long, proud mining history and the Territory Labor Government is creating new mining opportunities for the region."When our Government approved Edna Beryl officially opening last year, six immediate operator jobs were created, with additional personnel such as surveyors, engineers, geologists and truck drivers employed at various stages throughout operation."This latest approval means another four jobs during construction of the pipeline, including two positions for Aboriginal Territorians."The new pipeline will also mean the mine can grow and stay in production for longer, which could result in further jobs in the future."Quotes from the Member for Barkly, Gerry McCarthy:"The Edna Beryl gold mine is a real local success story - it was the first gold mine to open in Tennant Creek in more than a decade."Seeing the project receive approval for this next stage of development is exciting for our town."Purchase of the Edna Beryl Mining CompanyEmmerson is pleased to advise that our strategic alliance partner, Territory Resources Limited (Territory) have recently purchased the Edna Beryl Mining Company. This includes the rights to the mining and processing from the existing Tribute Area, plus all related assets including the headframe, winders, generators and accommodation facilities. Note Emmerson retains ownership of the Mining Lease.In addition, Emmerson has negotiated a future expansion of the Tribute Area to include new mineralisation within the Edna Beryl Mining Lease (figure 2). Under the terms of this extension, which is subject to Territory achieving certain performance hurdles, the EBMC (now owned by Territory) will complete the development, mining and processing from the existing Tribute Area. In addition, Territory are responsible for completing the exploration drive to Edna Beryl West and building the new dewatering infrastructure as recently approved by the NT Government.The exploration drive will enable further drilling of the multiple subparallel ironstones, some of which host bonanza gold grades. Keeping in mind that high-density underground drilling was instrumental to growing the resource base of many of the famous historical mines in the Tennant Creek Mineral Field.Once this drilling is completed, Emmerson and Territory will establish a Life of Mine plan to cover the future development, mining and processing of the greater Edna Beryl mineralisation.It is anticipated that the mining within the existing Tribute Area together with establishing the exploration drive will be completed within the next quarter. With Territory's refurbishment of their Warrego Mill now scheduled for completion in the first half of 2019, the ore mined from the existing Tribute Area may either be stockpiled, or toll treated outside of the Tennant Creek district.Accelerated Mining and ProcessingTerritory is an experienced mining and processing operator with a successful track record at other sites around Australia.The Edna Beryl Mine will now become an important early producer in the Territory mining schedule. It is anticipated that aggressive exploration programs both as part of the Earn-in by Territory in the Southern Project Area(SPA) and, from Emmerson funded exploration in the Northern Project Area (NPA) has potential to expand this production profile over time. Particularly considering the promising recent results at Emmerson's Mauretania and Edna Beryl projects.Under the terms of the agreement with Territory, Emmerson will receive a 25% profit share from any mine within the SPA, other than Edna Beryl and Chariot (where Emmerson will receive 12% and 6% respectively of the gold produced). Territory will receive a 75% share of profits in exchange for planning, funding, developing and operating the mines. At this stage, Emmerson's 25% portion of the profit share cannot be determined until the mining, processing and recoveries can be better ascertained for each individual mining project.Conclusion and Next StepsOnce the dewatering of the Edna Beryl workings is complete, reinstallation of the mining infrastructure will allow resumption of mining. An expanded workforce is already onsite.Given that the refurbishment of the Territory owned Warrego Mill is scheduled for commissioning in the first half of next year, ores mined from Edna Beryl will either be stockpiled or as a temporary measure, toll treated off site. Irrespective of either processing route, Emmerson will receive 12% of the gold dore produced.As previously announced, drilling is about to commence in both the NPA (100% owned by ERM) and SPA (under JV with Territory). As part of the NPA drilling, Emmerson has planned a number of drill holes at Edna Beryl to test for shallow high-grade gold in the oxide zone. Plus, additional drilling at Mauretania and new targets generated from the recent airborne geophysical survey. The second drill rig is about to commence in the SPA, as part of the $5m Earn-in and JV with Territory. This drilling is aimed at testing for extensions to our portfolio of small mines, assisting with mine planning ahead of potential production.To view tables, please visit:About Emmerson Resources Limited

Emmerson Resources Limited (ASX:ERM) (FRA:42E) recently commenced exploration on new gold-copper projects in NSW, identified (with our strategic alliance partner Kenex Limited) from the application of 2D and 3D predictive targeting models  aimed at increasing the probability of discovery. The highly prospective Macquarie Arc in NSW hosts >80Mozs gold and >13Mt copper with these resources heavily weighted to areas of outcrop or limited cover. Emmerson's five exploration projects contain many attributes of the known deposits within the Macquarie Arc but remain under explored due to historical impediments, including an overlying cover (plus farmlands) and a lack of exploration focus. Kadungle is a JV with Aurelia Metals covering 43km2 adjacent to Emmerson's Fifield project.

In addition, Emmerson is exploring the Tennant Creek Mineral Field (TCMF), one of Australia's highest-grade gold and copper fields producing over 5.5 Mozs of gold and 470,000 tonnes of copper from deposits including Warrego, White Devil, Orlando, Gecko, Chariot and Golden Forty. These high-grade deposits are highly valuable exploration targets, and to date discoveries include high-grade gold at Edna Beryl and Mauretania, plus copper-gold at Goanna and Monitor. These are the first discoveries in the TCMF for over a decade.Russia stands ready to help India with its first manned space mission in 2022, especially in developing the launcher and training of personnel, Russian ambassador Nikolay Kudashev said on Monday.

The possibility of cooperation for the mission was explored in bilateral talks and the probability of Indian astronauts going tothe Space City is very high, he said.

Referring to Russias experience in space missions over the past 60 years, Kudashev said there were different dimensions to the cooperation with India.

One is the development of the relevant launcher, the exploratory unit, the living (quarters) of the team, the safety measures, the communication measures and the preparation of cosmonauts for a long flight, he said on the sidelines of an event at the Russian embassy where a portrait of Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian man in space, was unveiled.

Kudashev said a MoU on human spaceflight was signed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Roscosmos, Russias space agency, during the annual summit between the two countries in October.

Gaganyaan is the name for Indias first indigenous manned space mission, which plans to put a person into space in the next four years. If successful, India will be the fourth country to launch a manned space mission after Russia, the US and China.

During a meeting in Moscow in September between external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj and Russias deputy prime minister for defence and space industry Yuriy Borisov, the two sides discussed possible cooperation in life support systems, crew module and astronaut training for Gaganyaan.

Sharma said space travel has become safer but physical and physiological training continues to be a challenge. Im quite sure we will be able to do (the training) initially perhaps with some consultancy and later by ourselves, he said.

It will take a while for the infrastructure to come into place. Rather than wait for infrastructure to be first commissioned and then start the training, we can always take help from friendly space-faring nations and we will be able to crush the time cycle, Sharma said about possible cooperation with Russia.National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah has accused the father of Peoples Conference chief Sajjad Lone, Abdul Ghani Lone, of bringing gun culture to the Valley.

Abdullah further revealed that he requested Sajjads father to drop the idea but it all went in vain.

His (Sajjad Lones) father came to me when (then Jammu and Kashmir Governor) Jagmohan dismissed me (in 1984). He (Abdul Ghani) said I am going to Pakistan, I am going to get the gun, said Farooq Abdullah during a media interaction on Sunday.

Farooq Abdullah in Baramulla,J&K: Uske(Sajjad Lone) walid mere pas aaye te jab mujhe dismiss kiya gya tha Jagmohan ne,Main Pakistan ja raha hun.Main bandook lane wala hoon.Maine use kaha,bandook mat laiye.Magar vo laye. Bandook nahi lani chaiye thi. Iska jawab dein vo. (02.12) pic.twitter.com/bHwcz94VU4  ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2018

With folded hands, I told him not to get the gun here. I told him our jawans will be killed, our homes, our villages, our cities will be destroyed, dont bring the gun. But he brought the gun. When he came back, he apologised to me saying he did a mistake and (he should) not have brought the gun.

While talking about his partys support to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of Mehbooba Mufti to form the government in the state, the former chief minister said that the support was extended only to save the Article 35A and Article 370 of the Indian Constitution.

We didnt want to form the government because we wanted to enjoy power, but we wanted to protect all that which the Governor is doing now. We wanted to defend Article 35A. The government would not have sustained for long. It was to be toppled one day and elections had to be held, Abdullah said.

PDP, NC, and Congress have different paths but we came together. Why? You see the condition in which J&K Bank is today. It would never have been the case had our government been there. We also want to save Article 35A and Article 370, he added.

He stressed that autonomy is the right of Jammu and Kashmir and the state will take its autonomy. He reiterated his stance that Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) is under Pakistan while rest of Jammu and Kashmir is under India.

Article 370 of the Indian Constitution gives autonomous status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir while Article 35A of the Constitution empowers Jammu and Kashmirs legislature to define permanent residents of the state and provide special rights and privileges to those permanent residents.Detailing the services future plans, Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba said on Monday the case for the second Indigenous Aircraft Carrier or IAC-II has received the necessary impetus, although it was still at least a decade away. He said the carrier would have a displacement of 65,000 tonnes, conventional propulsion and would deploy the electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) offered by the US.

Lanba added that this would ensure that India would have at least two carriers operating at any point and that the third carriers construction could begin within three years.

Lanba said submarine specific guidelines for building next-generation submarines in India under the governments strategic partnership model would be released shortly. He said 32 warships and submarines were currently under construction in Indian shipyards, and the government has given its approval for an additional 56 warships and six submarines.

Commenting on a contract awarded to Anil Ambani-owned Reliance Naval and Engineering Limited to build offshore patrol vessels for the navy, Lanba said the order had not been cancelled but it was being looked at.

RNEL is undergoing corporate debt restructuring and they have been taken to the court by their bankersNo preferential treatment is being given to RNEL. Their bank guarantees have been encashed by the navy, we have taken punitive action, Lanba said.

Asked to compare Indias capabilities with the navies of China and Pakistan, he said, As far as the Indian Navy is concerned, we have only one front. And that is the Indian Ocean. We have overwhelming superiority over Pakistan navy in all fields and domains. In the Indian Ocean region, the balance of power rests in our favour compared to China.Two days after local bodies minister Navjot Singh Sidhu courted controversy by describing Congress president Rahul Gandhi as his captain , hoardings describing chief minister Amarinder Singh as the captain of Punjab surfaced in Ludhiana.

The hoardings featuring Amarinder in the centre and local MP Ravneet Singh Bittu and food and civil supplies Bharat Bhushan Ashu on his sides were seen dotting the key locations across the city, including busy intersections, on Sunday.

Titled PUNJAB DA CAPTAIN SAADA CAPTAIN, these hoardings carry small images of Rahul and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi on the margins.

Sidhus statement came on Friday when he was asked why he went to attend the Kartarpur corridor ground-breaking ceremony in Pakistan without taking Captains permission. He had also said the Punjab CM is a captain of the army.

Bittu, who was at Dera Beas in Amritsar district to attend a spiritual discourse on Sunday, said, Amarinder is the real captain. The Congress came to power in Punjab just because he was the face of the party. People had voted for Amarinder and by installing these hoardings, party activists have reiterated their faith in the CM.

On the other hand, Ashu claimed that he was unaware about the hoardings.

I am in Rajasthan for electioneering and am not aware of any such hoardings. You better ask Bittu about it, he said.

Read: Four Punjab ministers want Navjot Singh Sidhu to step down for his comment on CM Amarinder

Some local leaders, on the condition of anonymity, said these hoardings were installed on the directions of some cabinet ministers who are considered close to the CM.

These ministers, they claimed, had held a meeting in Chandigarh on Saturday and decided to counter Sidhu on the issue.

Even on social media, some local politicians were seen rallying behind Amarinder and denouncing Sidhus comments.The Telangana Rashtra Samithi and Bharatiya Janata Party have a secret partnership, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said on Monday as he urged people to expose the tie-up and vote them out in the upcoming assembly elections.

Addressing a jam-packed rally in Gadwal ahead of the polls on December 7, Gandhi said there were only two fronts in the country at present with different political ideologies: a pro-BJP group and an anti-BJP group comprising Congress and other like-minded parties.

In Telangana, too, there are only two group - Telangana Rashtra Samithi and Peoples Front. And the TRS has a secret understanding with the BJP and both of them are working together, he alleged.

He reminded that the TRS had supported the Modi government at the Centre on several occasions, including during the passage of goods and services tax (GST) bill, demonetisation and election of President and vice-president.

KCR has never criticised Modi directly in any speech. He is functioning under the remote control of Modi only with a fear that if he opposed Modi, his corrupt practices would get exposed. That is why the TRS has transformed into Telangana RSS, he alleged.

Earlier in the day, Gandhi had tweeted a new name for the party led by K Chandrasekhar Rao, who is popularly called KCR, and called it Prime Minister Narendra Modis Telangana Rubber Stamp.

Great people of Telangana, Modi, KCR & Owaisi are one. They speak in twisted tongues. Do not be fooled by them! Gandhi had tweeted.

TRS is the BJPs B team & KCR operates as Mr Modis, Telangana Rubber Stamp. Owaisis, AIMIM is the BJPs C team, whose role is to split the anti BJP/ KCR vote, he said.

On November 28, Gandhi had called the TRS the B team of the Rashtriya Swyamsevak Sangh (RSS) and BJP.

The TRS is not Telangana Rashtra Samiti, its Telangana Rashtriya Sangh Parivar. Its a B team of the RSS and BJP, he told an election rally in Kosgi.

Gandhi alleged at another public rally in Tandur that the Asaduddin Owaisi-led All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, once friendly with the TRS in Telangana, was also an indirect supporter of Prime Minister Modi. He pointed out that the MIM had fielded its candidates in Maharashtra and Assam assembly elections only to split the Congress votes and benefit the BJP.

If TRS is Team B of the BJP, MIM is nothing but Team C. Their only ambition is to make Modi the Prime Minister again while retaining power in the state. But, we shall defeat Team B and Team C in the present assembly elections and Team A in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, he asserted.

Refuting the allegations, Owaisi said it was the Congress which had colluded with the BJP to defeat the TRS in some constituencies in Hyderabad by fielding weak candidates.

We are supporting the TRS because the Congress has lost the faith of Muslims. How can we forget the fact that the Congress government had got my brother arrested in the past? he asked.

Gandhi also pointed out that the TRS government had promised to make the newest state a Bangaru Telangana (Golden Telangana), but it had only made KCRs family a Bangaru Kutumbam (Golden Family).

Telangana, which had a revenue surplus of Rs 17,000 crore when it was formed, is now reeling under severe debts to the extent of Rs 2 lakh crore. Each family is now facing a debt burden of Rs 1.50 lakh, while the wealth of KCR family increased by 400%, he said.

He alleged that massive corruption had taken place in the construction of irrigation projects as the KCR government had escalated the projects costs abnormally in the name of redesigning.

For instance, the cost of Palamur-Ranga Reddy Lift Scheme which was estimated to cost Rs 10,000 crore originally, went up to Rs 60,000 crore, thanks to the looting of money by KCRs family through commissions. The Congress, if voted to power in the elections, shall complete the project without any additional cost, he said.

The Congress president said the Telangana chief minister betrayed all sections of people by not implementing the promises he had made before the last elections.

The unemployed youth were ditched as the government did not fill vacant jobs. Farmers did not get remunerative prices for their produce. When chill farmers agitated for remunerative prices, he got them hand-cuffed and jailed, he said.

Gandhi assured that if Congress was voted to power, it would waive crop loans of all farmers to the extent of Rs 1 lakh. When Modi can waive Rs 3.50 lakh crore bank loans of just five individuals, why cant we waive crop loans of farmers? he asked.

KCR denied the allegations levelled by the Congress president during his campaign rally in Nalgonda.

Rahul Gandhi says the TRS is Team B of the BJP. When Modi comes here, he says the TRS is a by-product of the Congress. I am not anybodys agent. I am the agent of my people, he said.

The TRS government in Telangana had barely finished four years of its term when KCR dissolved the assembly opting for elections over a year ahead of schedule. The Congress has partnered with the TDP, which rules neighbouring Andhra Pradesh and which was till March this year an ally of the BJP.

The Congress has also joined hands with the Communist Party of India (CPI) and the newly-formed Telangana Jana Samithi (TJS) to take on the TRS and the BJP in the state. The TRS and BJP are contesting the assembly polls separately.Under fire from his cabinet colleagues who are pressing for his resignation over his jibe at Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh, local bodies minister Navjot Singh Sidhu on Sunday defended his remark saying he has done nothing wrong.

This is politics. I am accountable to my conscience. I have utmost respect for my chief minister. What I said was that Rahul Gandhi is my captain is there something wrong in it? Let anybody deny that Rahul Gandhi is not our captain. Let him (Amarinder) deny that Rahul Gandhi is not his captain, he said in an interview to Hindustan Times.

Sidhus remark came on a day when more Punjab ministers targeted him and asked him to apologise to the CM.

What Sidhu said about Capt sahib is unfortunate. He (Amarinder) is our undisputed leader. He is captain of the party in the state. Such things should not have been said by him, said women and child development and transport minister Aruna Chaudhary.

Read Navjot Singh Sidhus full interview here

Defending his decision to go to Pakistan for the Kartarpur corridor groundbreaking, Sidhu said: He (Amarinder) did not go to Pakistan for his own reasons. If he does not want to go, it doesnt mean others should not go, pilgrims should not go. I respect his opinion, he is an elder. That does not mean that if I have given a word and my friend (Imran Khan) has called me, I will not go.

On being asked whether there was any feud between him and Amarinder, he said: This is absolute nonsense. Have I ever challenged him? Have I ever said, I will not do this or that? This feud is being created for political convenience.A police inspector and a 21-year-old villager were killed as a mob went on the rampage against alleged illegal cow slaughter in Bulandshahr district of western Uttar Pradesh on Monday, police and district administration officials said.

The state government has ordered an SIT probe, besides inquiry by the additional director general (intelligence) and a magisterial probe, ADG (law and order) Anand Kumar said in Lucknow. The separate probes were announced after chief minister Yogi Adityanath pulled up senior police officers.

Additional director general of police, Meerut zone, Prashant Kumar said the protesters from Mahaw village and nearby areas pelted the police with stones and indulged in arson, setting several vehicles and the Chingarwathi police outpost on fire.

Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh, who was posted at the Syana police station as station house officer, died in the violence, he said.. Bulandshahar district magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha also confirmed the death of the inspector.

The SHOs death was caused by a blunt object, said the ADG law and order, quoting doctors who conducted a preliminary examination.

He also said the youth Sumit died of a gunshot wound amid firing by both sides and a post-mortem report would reveal whether it was a police bullet or another one that killed him.

An FIR was lodged against seven people, whose names have not been disclosed, he added.

Senior superintendent of police K B Singh said heavy police force was deployed in the area to bring the situation under control.

The violence erupted 40 kilometres from the venue of the Tablighi Ijtema, a three-day Islamic congregation attended by 15 lakh people in the district and six to nine lakh of them had already left. Several companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary and the Rapid Action Force were deployed for the congregation.

The trouble started after villagers found some body parts of cow and its progeny in a jungle in Mahaw village, the ADG Meerut said. Angry villagers and members of various Hindu groups brought the animal remains in tractor-trolleys to the Chingarwathi police outpost and demanded action against the culprits. They raised slogans against the police administration, blocking the Bulandshahr-Garh highway.

District magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha said police and senior officials tried to reason with the protesters but they refused to budge. As sub-divisional magistrate Avinash Kumar Maurya arrived on the scene, protesters turned violent, pelting stones on policemen and indulging in arson. The inspector sustained head injuries in the stone-pelting. The profusely bleeding inspector was rushed to the Aurangabad community health centre (CHC) where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The district magistrate said the police had to open fire in self-defence. Meerut divisional commissioner Aneeta C Meshram said she was rushing to the spot to take stock of the situation.

Jha and senior superintendent of police K B Singh are camping in the area.Taking strong objection to Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanaths Lord Hanuman is Dalit remark, state minister Om Prakash Rajbhar said it was wrong to divide Gods into castes.

Addressing a public meeting in Shamli district on Sunday, the backward classes welfare minister criticised his own government for starting a controversy with such statements.

It is wrong to divide Gods into castes and due to this controversy, Dalit community is demanding to takeover Hanuman temples, he said. While addressing a rally in Rajasthans Alwar district last week, Adityanath had said, Hanuman was a forest dweller, deprived and a Dalit. Bajrang Bali worked to unite all Indian communities, from north to south and east to west.

Reacting to the remarks, Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar had Sunday said members of the community should take over all Hanuman temples in the country and appoint Dalits as priests there.

Rajbhar also hit out at the state government for not providing 27 % reservation to the Kashyap community.A trans-Atlantic love affair has sprouted between a once anonymous English couple who lost an engagement ring down a Times Square utility grate, returning home thinking it was gone forever, and the New York City police officers who found it in the muck 8 feet under.

I cannot thank you enough, although I will try, Englishman John Drennan said in a tweet directed at the New York police Sunday. A few cold beers when we come back to NYC! We are completely overwhelmed and you will definitely get a mention at our wedding!

The NYPD had been looking for Drennan and his fiancee, Daniella Anthony, since they retrieved the ring Saturday morning. He proposed to her in Central Park and she said it slipped off her finger and fell into the Times Square grate late Friday night.

WANTED for dropping his fiancees ring in @TimesSquareNYC!

She said Yes - but he was so excited that he dropped the ring in a grate. Our @NYPDSpecialops officers rescued it & would like to return it to the happy couple. Help us find them?  call 800-577-TIPS @NYPDTIPS @NYPDMTN pic.twitter.com/tPWg8OE0MQ  NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 1, 2018

I was devastated, Anthony told The New York Times. I was literally crying. It was the worst moment of my life.

They asked for help, but police officers were initially unsuccessful at getting the ring out and the couple left for England without leaving their names or contact information. Drennan even bought a second ring shortly after arriving at the airport.

Meanwhile, NYPD officers continued their search, and on Saturday morning they finally located the ring about 8 feet (2 meters) underground.

Fortunately, it was actually kind of sitting on top of all of that stuff, so it really wasnt hard to find. It was just a small object like that in the midst of all the garbage, said Det. Joseph Bucchignano, the officer who spotted the ring.

We would like to thank everyone who shared this story! The (now) happy couple is back in their home country, but thanks to your retweets they heard we were looking for them! Were making arrangements to get them their ring back. Congratulations! https://t.co/rXHxxkwClm  NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 2, 2018

In an effort to identify the anonymous couple, the NYPD put out a video message on social media showing them searching for the ring before police had arrived. Drennan is seen on his stomach peering through the grate.

Heres a photo of the ring our officers recovered (and cleaned!) Call 1-800-577-TIPS or DM @NYPDTips if you know the happy couple so we can return it to them! pic.twitter.com/hzFXxuMVJW  NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 1, 2018

Drennan told the newspaper that they had planned to keep the lost ring a secret, but a friend forwarded him the police Twitter message. Drennan then called New York police on Sunday.A 20-year-old newly-wed woman was set on fire in a village in Sitapur on Saturday afternoon for allegedly resisting a molestation bid by two brothers and submitting a police complaint against them. She suffered 45% burns in the incident and was in a critical state, said police.

The incident led to the suspension of three cops of Sitapurs Tambaur police station, including in-charge OP Saroj, local police outpost in-charge Manoj Kumar and head constable Chedi Lal. The policemen, reportedly, did not pay heed to the womans earlier compliant of sexual harassment.

Taking cognizance of the incident, director general of police, OP Singh, asked inspector general of police, Lucknow, Sujeet Pandey, to rush to Sitapur to look into the matter.

The accused brothers, Raju and Rajesh, were arrested on Sunday after an FIR of molestation and attempt to murder was registered against them at Tambaur police station.

The IGP said that initial probe clearly suggested police negligence. Three cops, including the police station in-charge, were suspended and a department inquiry initiated against them. I visited the Sitapur district hospital to learn about the victims condition and have ordered stern action against the accused, he said.

The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon, when she had gone to attend to natures call in a field along with other women and girls, said police quoting the victim. The brothers approached her when she was returning home and started pressurising her to take back her complaint against them.

She said when she tried to free herself from the duos clutches, they poured kerosene on her and set her ablaze. They fled from the spot when villagers turned up to rescue her.

Police said the victim was first rushed to the community health centre at Tambaur and later referred to the Sitapur district hospital.

The victim told police that the brothers, who stayed barely 10m from her house, had been causing her inconvenience for the past few months. She had earlier lodged a complaint against Raju, accusing him of misbehaving with her but no police personnel inquired into the matter.

A local, Zeeshan, said that the womans family had called up the police control room after a scuffle with the brothers over a harassment incident on November 29. A police response vehicle visited the spot and referred the matter to Tambaur police station for further action. However, no action was taken, which emboldened the accused, he said.

DGP OP Singh said that IGP Lucknow Sujeet Pandey had been asked to submit a comprehensive report about the incident to him. Nobody will be spared for such gross negligence. Even the circle officer concerned, additional SP and SP Sitapur will be questioned about police inaction and insensitivity, he said.

Unibet signs Agreement for global racing solution

Sydney, Dec 4, 2018 AEST (ABN Newswire) - The BetMakers Holdings Limited ( ASX:TBH ) ("Company") is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Global Betting Services Pty Ltd ("GBS"), has signed an agreement with Unibet ("Unibet"), to provide a global racing solution for Unibet's global platforms.Highlights- TBH extends deal with international operator Unibet and begins immediately- The Agreement covers Unibet Australia and all Unibet's proprietary racing locations including Unibet UK- Unibet to integrate the Global Tote to give its traders and customers access to Tote poolsUnibet is a brand of Kindred Group PLC ("Kindred") www.kindredgroup.com and is one of the largest global operators with licenses in 13 countries. The Unibet deal covers Unibet Australia and Unibet globally including Unibet UK.GBS will provide Unibet with key offerings from its global products and services suite, including:- Premium Price Manager, which allows Unibet to automatically and instantly price thousands of racing events simultaneously without the need to increase resources, such as traders and IT staff;- Racing Data Delivery Services, which combines data feeds from numerous jurisdictions into a single, manageable solution, enabling Unibet to expand the number of events Unibet can offer; and- Tote access, which allows Unibet to offer a choice of wagering products in addition to its fixed odds racing solutions.- Dynamic Odds trading, allowing the Unibet trading team access to customized platforms to manage their pricing and trading.Ben Colley, Head of Global Racing for Kindred Group said "With GBS being long-term partners to our Australian business, we quickly saw the value in including the expansive GBS provision to supply our global proprietary racing platform, localising this content across all of our key territories."Outside of the obvious benefits of aggregating what we see as key feed requirements with ancillary, complementary racing services, we also enjoy the benefit of a Global Tote connection and expanded International racing content from The BetMakers."The BetMakers CEO Todd Buckingham commented: "To onboard another truly Global operator such as Kindred Group, highlights the offering that is delivered by The BetMakers. We have previously stated that we believe The BetMakers racing offering is unparalleled which would be apparent to all now with the onboarding of some of the world's leading operators for their racing.""We are excited to bring our full solution including Global Tote access and our Global Racing distribution to Unibet (Kindred)."About Betmakers Technology Group Ltd

Betmakers Technology Group Ltd (ASX:BET) (OTCMKTS:TPBTF) is an ASX-listed holding company and a global provider of online wagering products and services to both wholesale and retail markets through its various wholly owned subsidiaries. The Company operates a retail wagering business, offering consumers wagering, fantasy tournament and content products and services.Facing flak over his recent statement where he reportedly termed Lord Hanuman a Dalit, chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said even those who did not have any knowledge of Hindu religion were criticising him.

Yogi, who was in Prayagraj to attend Kumbh Abhishek at Shri Adi Shanker Mandapam temple, said: People who do not know Hindu religion are reacting to the literal meaning of every word that I spoke. Criticising anyone is easy but extending support for completion of a work and making an effort successful is tough.

Addressing a public meeting in Malakheda area of Alwar (Rajasthan) recently, Yogi had reportedly said, Bajrang Bali hamari bhartiya parampara mein ek aise lokdevta hain jo swayam vanvaasi hain, girvasi hain, dalit hain, vanchit hain (Lord Hanuman was a forest dweller, a Dalit and deprived).

Yogi stayed at the temple for an hour before proceeding to poll-bound Telangana for campaigning.

During his brief visit to the city, Yogi was shown black flags by Samajwadi Party (SP) workers while Congressmen burnt his effigy to protest his recent comment on Lord Hanuman.

Kumbh is a major cultural, religious and social event of Indias Sanatan Parampara. Although Kumbh Mela is held at four different places in the country but the one organised in Prayagraj enjoys special importance. It is a major attraction not only for Indians but for devotees from other countries too, Yogi said.

He also appealed to the people to make Kumbh a memorable event for crores of devotees and tourists.

Before participating in Kumbh Abhishek, Yogi also offered prayers at Bade Hanuman temple and Shanker Vimaanmandapam temple. He also talked to the Shankaracharya of Kanchi Kaamkoti peeth Vijeyendra Saraswati through video conferencing.

While the CM was returning from Kumbh Abhishek, three activists of the Samajwadi Party showed black flags to him. Acting swiftly, the police stopped the activists and detained them.

Upset over the slow pace of development works as part of preparations for Kumbh, Congress workers torched the effigy of the CM at Jawahar Square in Chowk area.

President of City Congress Committee Nafees Anwar said the entire city had landed in a mess in the name of development and no quality check of the work was being done.

Photo Caption 1 and 2: UP CM Yogi Adityanath speaking at the Kumbh Abhishek ceremony on Sunday.

Photo Caption 4 and 5: UP CM Yogi Adityanath at the ceremony.

Photo Caption 6: UP CM Yogi Adityanath talking to shankaracharya of Kanchi Kaamkothi peeth Vijeyendra Saraswati through video conferencing.

(All pics by Anil Kumar Maurya/HT)

Congress activist burning effigy of UP CM Yogi Adityanath in Prayagraj on Sunday.

(Pix by Sheeraz Rizvi/HT)A 20-year-old newly-wed woman was on Monday battling for her life with 40% burns two days after two men allegedly set her afire for refusing to withdraw her sexual harassment complaint against them in Uttar Pradeshs Sitapur.

Residents alleged that police inaction in the case had emboldened Raju and Rajesh, who accosted the woman on Saturday when she had gone to relieve herself in a field along with other women of her village. Police said the two pressured the 20-year-old to withdraw the complaint. They poured kerosene on her and set her ablaze when she refused to do so.

With a total of 49,262 incidents of crime against woman, as per the National Crime Records Bureau 2016 data, UP has one of the highest rates of crime against women in India. According to data of Women power line (WPL) of UP, a total of 12,850 complaints of cyber harassment were lodged by women till October this year.

Raju and Rajesh fled when villagers rushed to rescue the woman. They were arrested on Sunday and booked for sexual harassment and attempt to murder. Police said the 20-year-old was first rushed to a community health centre and later referred to the Sitapurs district hospital, where her condition was said to be stable on Monday.

The woman told the police that the two, who are brothers and her neighbours, had been harassing her for the last few months. She had earlier lodged a complaint against Raju but the police allegedly sat on it.

Zeeshan, a local resident, said the womans family had called up the police after a scuffle with the two over the harassment on November 29. A police response vehicle visited the spot and referred the matter to Tambaur police station for further action. However, no action was taken, which emboldened the accused, he said.

Uttar Pradesh police chief Om Prakash Singh has asked inspector general of police (Lucknow) Sujeet Pandey to submit a report about the incident. Nobody will be spared for such gross negligence. Even the circle officer concerned, additional superintendent of police and Sitapur police superintendent will be questioned about police inaction and insensitivity, said Pandey.

Tambaur police station in-charge OP Saroj and two other policemen, Manoj Kumar, and Chedi Lal, were earlier suspended for inaction in the case.

The woman and her family had thrice met Tauqeer Ahmed, the local circle officer, seeking action against the harassers. Pandey, who visited the 20-year-old at the hospital on Sunday, said an inquiry has been ordered against Ahmed. Strict action will be taken against the officer if any laxity on his part is found.

Pandey said an initial probe suggested police inaction. Three cops, including the police station in-charge, were suspended and a departmental inquiry initiated against them. I visited the Sitapur district hospital to learn about victims condition and have ordered stern action against the accused.A senior citizen was killed, and two people were in a critical condition after a fire broke out in an 18-storey residential building in Mahalaxmi early on Sunday. Seventy-five residents were injured, of which 19 are still in hospital.

The fire brigade said the fire broke out at 2.52am on the first floor of the Samrat Ashok cooperative housing society in Mahalaxmi on Sunday. The fire started in the buildings metre room and was mainly confined to the first floor, but smoke engulfed all 18 floors, making it difficult for firefighters to rescue residents trapped on the higher floors.

Even though the fire only affected the first floor, the smoke had engulfed all 18 floors. This got in the way of rescue operations and fire fighting, chief fire officer PS Rahangdale said. The injured were taken to the nearby Bhatia hospital and Nair hospital. Officials said Laxmi Koli, 82, was declared dead on arrival. Two other people suffered inhalation burns and carbon monoxide poisoning are both in critical condition, hospital officials said.

As with other high-rise fires in the city this year, the Samrat Ashok building had violated several fire safety rules  the firefighting equipment was not in working condition, and the electricity metre room was not a covered space. Fire brigade officials said they issued a notice to the housing society under the Maharashtra Fire Prevention and Life Safety Act (2006).

In November, state urban development minister Ranjit Patil said the there had been close to 50,000 fires in Mumbai over the past decade, and nearly 69% of these were triggered by defective electric circuits or short circuits.

Four fire engines and three water tankers were used to douse the fire. Officials said they put out the fire at 5.43am on Sunday, three hours after it broke out.

An eight-year-old child was killed in another fire in a Dahisar slum on Sunday.Days after the Maharashtra government officially gave the Marathas a 16% quota in government jobs and education, the Bombay high court received the first petition challenging the governments decision. On Monday, a civil society group, the Indian Constitutional Council, filed a PIL in the HC.

Meanwhile, the state government on Monday filed a caveat in the Supreme Court requesting it not to pass any order related to the quota without hearing its side.

Considering some people may challenge our decision, a caveat was filed by senior advocate Nishant Katneshwarkar on behalf of the state government in the Supreme Court, said a senior official from the state general administration department. The caveat will provide an opportunity to the state to file its say before the court decides to give any interim relief to petitioners.

The states revenue minister Chandrakant Patil said on Monday the government has appointed senior advocate Harish Salve to represent its case in the Bombay high court.

Reservations in Maharashtra add up to 68%, well above a Supreme Court-mandated cap of 50%. The state decided to grant the Maratha reservations after the Maharashtra State Commission for Backward Classes (MSCBC) endorsed the communitys social, educational and financial backwardness.

The state made use of an exception in the SCs ruling that said rules may need to be relaxed in case of extraordinary situations, and granted the quota under a separate class, called the Socially and Educationally Backward Class (SEBC).

The plea in the Bombay high court pointed out how the quota exceeds the 50% ceiling, and how a section of the Maratha community  the Kunbi-Marathas  had already been given a reservation under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category. The plea said the additional reservations would only create a class within a class, affecting those who do not belong to any reserved category. The petitioner, Jayashree Patil, said the plea will be mentioned for urgent hearing as the reservations will impact medical admissions and government jobs.

Patils advocate, Gunaratan Sadavarte, said that the reservation was invalid, and that this quota meant the open category was left with only 32%.

In 1984, the Maharashtra government had already made reservations for the Kunbi community, who are part of the Maratha group. Giving the Marathas another 16% reservation in education and jobs means creating a class within a class, Sadavarte said. He said the Indian Constitutional Council had challenged the reservations in 2014 too, when the Congress-NCP government had announced a 16% reservation. The Bombay high court had struck down the quota then.Its all sweet talk when it comes to the authorities promises on reviving Mithi River, 13 years after a deluge killed more than 1,000 people, in part owing to the deplorable condition of the citys largest river.

Encroachments, reclamation, improperly built retaining walls, indiscriminate dumping of industrial effluents and solid waste have made the 17.84km river an open drain, and consequently, left the city vulnerable to a deluge similar to the one on July 26, 2005, according to a report submitted by the state government to the Supreme Court (SC).

During the deluge, 944mm of rain over 24 hours, including 190.3mm between 3.30pm and 4.30pm, combined with a high tide of 4.48m resulted in severe flooding in the rivers catchment area of 7,295 hectares.

The river, which meets the Arabian Sea at Mahim creek, starts at the Vihar and Powai lakes and passes through several areas of the citys suburbs

Also, less than 5% of the river has been planned for treatment, said the 243-page report. It is important to note that of the 124 million litres a day (MLD) that flows into Mithi, only 6 to 8 MLD is planned for treatment, said the report. This means effectively, 95% of the river is sewage, according to an expert who prepared the report.

The report, prepared by the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT-B) and National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), along with two independent experts, is likely to be discussed by the SC on December 7.

The report was submitted on March 13 by then additional chief secretary Satish Gavai. The matter was based on a petition filed by environment group Vanashakti. On August 16, 2017, SC had ordered the formation of a panel to ensure pollution in the river reduces and its restoration begins soon, while slamming the state for not taking any steps to rectify the situation over 12 years. The government deposited 50 lakh with the court for expenses incurred by the committee to study and restore the river. As large-scale urbanisation, encroachments, and development have taken place in the river basin, a repeat of the 2005 deluge is inevitable, the report concluded. Earlier committees recommended the removal of encroachments along the river with a minimum buffer of at least 15m. However, even after 13 years since the deluge, this work is not complete and the issue of encroachment removal has not been taken seriously by authorities. Hence, the river has become a solid waste dumping yard and gets polluted owing to sewage entering directly from slums, the report concluded.

The report identified Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) as a source for flooding and called for an immediate need to widen bridges. The major problem of flooding is because of reclamation(620 hectares) for BKC and owing to the bottleneck forming of non-widened bridges at the downstream of the river, it read. It is a damning report about the current condition of the river, but it clearly establishes the loopholes and how state agencies need to work in tandem to revive this water body, said Gavai, currently posted as additional chief secretary (industries), Maharashtra . We need to take inspiration from the revival of Europes Rhine River, which was many times more polluted than Mithi, but countries like Austria, Switzerland, Germany, France and the Netherlands came together to develop a robust restoration plan.

From extremely poor water quality, poor infrastructure, inappropriate construction of roads, setting up of unauthorised industries, and slum settlements, the report collated by four scientists from NEERI, led by director Dr Rakesh Kumar, three scientists from IIT-B, professor AD Sawant and architect PK Das, divided Mithi into 15 zones and suggested short-term and long-term restoration measures for each zone to be implemented at the earliest.

Areas around BKC not only have slums, but massive buildings that have been illegally constructed on floodplains. Construction of retaining walls in areas around Aarey Colony and further towards Sanjay Gandhi National Park can be disastrous for such areas as the interaction with the river reduces significantly, said a committee member. Other committee members refused to comment as the matter is being heard by SC and remains sub-judice.

The report compared recommendations from nine previous committee reports between 2006 and 2017, including the one by the Chitale committee soon after the 2005 deluge and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB). The recommendations directed government bodies to put a stop to industrial effluent discharge and setting up sewage treatment plants (STPs) to capture domestic waste from adjoining encroachments. However, it has been observed that no proper planning and execution work was carried out, read the report, adding that unauthorised industries continued to dump effluents in the river.

The committee said the construction of service roads along the river banks was not done, the construction of a river flushing system for swift rejuvenation as directed by the Chitale committee was never implemented, and the development of flood risk maps for rainfall levels every year post 2005 was not prepared.

The retaining walls constructed along Mithi are not constructed the way they should have been for an urban river. The committee found there was no coordination between different agencies for the planning and execution of the river-related work, the report said.

BMC to challenge

An additional municipal commissioner from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) closely associated with the river rejuvenation plan said they had been carrying out civil and environmental engineering solutions over the past 13 years. The BMC has removed more than 60,000 encroachments across the rivers length. Based on recommendations of the Chitale report, the river wall was built and new stormwater drains were constructed. Proof of this has been witnessed over the past two years when during monsoon Mithi did not overflow, which had been happening regularly over the past two decades, the officer said. There is a lot of change since 2005 and there has been a significant improvement. We will be telling SC about our version when this report is discussed.

The officer said, At first, IIT-B had suggested the use of wetland technology to clean up the river, but it failed because the area had too many encroachments. We decided to float a tender and hire an international consultant in 2015-16 that carried a flow study where of the 398 million litres , the current flow of the river is 8 million litres, which means 390 million litres is sewage. There are 73 major and medium nullahs emptying into the Mithi, the official said, adding, Based on this, we broke Mithi into three parts under the revival project at about 1,000 crore.

The first part started from Vihar Lake going up to a portion of a compound in Powai, a distance of about 3km, where an STP was commissioned and this cost was 100 crore. The STP is under construction, the BMC officer said. Part two from Powai compound to CST bridge, sewage will be collected and taken to already existing STPs, the officer added. The third part is from CST Bridge to Mahim creek. We will build interceptor sewers and the collected sewage will be treated at Bandra STP.

Rajiv Kuknoor, deputy municipal commissioner, said, Work is underway in full swing in part one with the STP under construction. Draft tenders for the other parts are ready and over the next 15 days, the tenders for these will be published. It will take three months to develop the work order, prepare a scrutiny report for the tenders and then work will start, he said.

Its all sweet talk when it comes to the authorities promises on reviving Mithi River, 13 years after a deluge killed more than 1,000 people, in part owing to the deplorable condition of the citys largest river.

Encroachments, reclamation, improperly built retaining walls, indiscriminate dumping of industrial effluents and solid waste have made the 17.84km river an open drain, and consequently, left the city vulnerable to a deluge similar to the one on July 26, 2005, according to a report submitted by the state government to the Supreme Court (SC).

During the deluge, 944mm of rain over 24 hours, including 190.3mm between 3.30pm and 4.30pm, combined with a high tide of 4.48m resulted in severe flooding in the rivers catchment area of 7,295 hectares.

The river, which meets the Arabian Sea at Mahim creek, starts at the Vihar and Powai lakes and passes through several areas of the citys suburbs

Also, less than 5% of the river has been planned for treatment, said the 243-page report. It is important to note that of the 124 million litres a day (MLD) that flows into Mithi, only 6 to 8 MLD is planned for treatment, said the report. This means effectively, 95% of the river is sewage, according to an expert who prepared the report.

The report, prepared by the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT-B) and National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), along with two independent experts, is likely to be discussed by the SC on December 7.

The report was submitted on March 13 by then additional chief secretary Satish Gavai. The matter was based on a petition filed by environment group Vanashakti. On August 16, 2017, SC had ordered the formation of a panel to ensure pollution in the river reduces and its restoration begins soon, while slamming the state for not taking any steps to rectify the situation over 12 years. The government deposited 50 lakh with the court for expenses incurred by the committee to study and restore the river. As large-scale urbanisation, encroachments, and development have taken place in the river basin, a repeat of the 2005 deluge is inevitable, the report concluded. Earlier committees recommended the removal of encroachments along the river with a minimum buffer of at least 15m. However, even after 13 years since the deluge, this work is not complete and the issue of encroachment removal has not been taken seriously by authorities. Hence, the river has become a solid waste dumping yard and gets polluted owing to sewage entering directly from slums, the report concluded.

The report identified Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) as a source for flooding and called for an immediate need to widen bridges. The major problem of flooding is because of reclamation(620 hectares) for BKC and owing to the bottleneck forming of non-widened bridges at the downstream of the river, it read. It is a damning report about the current condition of the river, but it clearly establishes the loopholes and how state agencies need to work in tandem to revive this water body, said Gavai, currently posted as additional chief secretary (industries), Maharashtra . We need to take inspiration from the revival of Europes Rhine River, which was many times more polluted than Mithi, but countries like Austria, Switzerland, Germany, France and the Netherlands came together to develop a robust restoration plan.

From extremely poor water quality, poor infrastructure, inappropriate construction of roads, setting up of unauthorised industries, and slum settlements, the report collated by four scientists from NEERI, led by director Dr Rakesh Kumar, three scientists from IIT-B, professor AD Sawant and architect PK Das, divided Mithi into 15 zones and suggested short-term and long-term restoration measures for each zone to be implemented at the earliest.

Areas around BKC not only have slums, but massive buildings that have been illegally constructed on floodplains. Construction of retaining walls in areas around Aarey Colony and further towards Sanjay Gandhi National Park can be disastrous for such areas as the interaction with the river reduces significantly, said a committee member. Other committee members refused to comment as the matter is being heard by SC and remains sub-judice.

The report compared recommendations from nine previous committee reports between 2006 and 2017, including the one by the Chitale committee soon after the 2005 deluge and the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB). The recommendations directed government bodies to put a stop to industrial effluent discharge and setting up sewage treatment plants (STPs) to capture domestic waste from adjoining encroachments. However, it has been observed that no proper planning and execution work was carried out, read the report, adding that unauthorised industries continued to dump effluents in the river.

The committee said the construction of service roads along the river banks was not done, the construction of a river flushing system for swift rejuvenation as directed by the Chitale committee was never implemented, and the development of flood risk maps for rainfall levels every year post 2005 was not prepared.

The retaining walls constructed along Mithi are not constructed the way they should have been for an urban river. The committee found there was no coordination between different agencies for the planning and execution of the river-related work, the report said.

BMC to challenge

An additional municipal commissioner from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) closely associated with the river rejuvenation plan said they had been carrying out civil and environmental engineering solutions over the past 13 years. The BMC has removed more than 60,000 encroachments across the rivers length. Based on recommendations of the Chitale report, the river wall was built and new stormwater drains were constructed. Proof of this has been witnessed over the past two years when during monsoon Mithi did not overflow, which had been happening regularly over the past two decades, the officer said. There is a lot of change since 2005 and there has been a significant improvement. We will be telling SC about our version when this report is discussed.

The officer said, At first, IIT-B had suggested the use of wetland technology to clean up the river, but it failed because the area had too many encroachments. We decided to float a tender and hire an international consultant in 2015-16 that carried a flow study where of the 398 million litres , the current flow of the river is 8 million litres, which means 390 million litres is sewage. There are 73 major and medium nullahs emptying into the Mithi, the official said, adding, Based on this, we broke Mithi into three parts under the revival project at about 1,000 crore.

The first part started from Vihar Lake going up to a portion of a compound in Powai, a distance of about 3km, where an STP was commissioned and this cost was 100 crore. The STP is under construction, the BMC officer said. Part two from Powai compound to CST bridge, sewage will be collected and taken to already existing STPs, the officer added. The third part is from CST Bridge to Mahim creek. We will build interceptor sewers and the collected sewage will be treated at Bandra STP.

Rajiv Kuknoor, deputy municipal commissioner, said, Work is underway in full swing in part one with the STP under construction. Draft tenders for the other parts are ready and over the next 15 days, the tenders for these will be published. It will take three months to develop the work order, prepare a scrutiny report for the tenders and then work will start, he said.Last month, doctors in Mumbai extracted a 3.5-cm pin from the lungs an 18-year-old woman. The patient, a resident of Goa, had accidentally swallowed the pin while tying a scarf. She had held the pin between her teeth. While the incident took place on November 21, the pin was extracted on November 27.

Soon after the incident, the womans family rushed her to a hospital near their residence in Goa. An x-ray revealed that the pin was stuck in the lungs. Initially, local doctors tried to extract the pin through endoscopy but they failed.

She went from one hospital to another [three medical colleges and two hospitals in Goa]  but none of the doctors could help her. One of them even suggested surgical extraction of the pin, but the family refused, said a doctor from Zen Multispecialty Hospital, Chembur, where the pin was eventually extracted through bronchoscopy.

The family came to Mumbai after they were referred to pulmonologist Dr Arvind Kate.

Delay in extracting the pin could have damaged blood vessels of heart and lungs. Also, there was risk of infection, as the metallic object was inside the body for almost a week, said Kate.

Another doctor said performing endoscopy was risky, as the pin could have ruptured blood vessels or punctured other internal organs. So they decide to perform bronchoscopy.

Kate said, Extracting the pin through bronchoscopy was difficult, as it had pierced lung parenchyma (a portion of lung) and was lodged vertically in the lower chest. But everything went well.

The womans brother said, She is responding well to the treatment. We want to thank the doctors for saving my sisters life.Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar met Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Rajya Sabha MP, Narayan Rane at his residence in Sindhurdurg district of Konkan, on Monday, giving rise to speculation about a possible tie up between the two ahead of the 2019 polls.

Rane, former chief minister quit the Congress to join BJP last year. He is however unhappy with the BJP as he was not made a minister in the state cabinet and instead offered a Rajya Sabha nomination. The veteran politician after quitting the Congress had also launched his own political outfit, Maharashtra Swabhimani Paksha (MSP). Both his sons, former MP Nilesh Rane and legislator, Nitesh did not join the BJP formally even after Ranes Rajya Sabha nomination.

The meeting between Pawar and Rane lasted for more than an hour in the afternoon. Both Rane and NCP party leaders, however said that this meet was informal.

Pawarsaheb is touring Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts, Mr Rane is from there. He invited Pawarsaheb for an informal visit as its on the way. Its premature to read politics into this, said state NCP president Jayant Patil. Rane also told mediapersons in Konkan that this was not a political meeting.

There has however been a buzz in political circles that Ranes elder son and former Congress MP Nilesh Rane is seeking ticket or support from the NCP to contest the Ratnagiri-Sindhurdurg Lok Sabha constituency that he lost to Senas Vinayak Raut in 2014. If BJP and Sena have an alliance, this seat will go to Sena, leaving Nilesh without a home constituency.

Ranes younger son and Congress MLA, Nitesh Rane, who was present at the meeting, however indicated that while the meeting was informal, it could have a political fall out. Neither my brother nor I am planning to join the NCP. We will not contest on their party tickets. We have our own party. However, the decision on who our party could align with pre or post polls is still open.

He also added that MSP was looking at contesting seats in the upcoming polls in the state but the decision on the quantum of seats would be decided by December end, following a state wide survey the party had undertaken. When Rane had launched launched the party, he had said MSP would align with the BJP.

A senior NCP politician said that since Congress did not have a candidate from here post Ranes exit, it was willing to align with Rane indirectly for this Lok Sabha seat and would hand over the constituency to NCP.

We have discussed this with Congress state leadership. Congress priority is to bring down BJPs Lok Sabha tally even if this requires the party to align with former rebels. In this case it will be done indirectly through us, said the NCP functionary. A senior Congress functionary, however said that the party would tread cautiously when it comes to Rane since he quit the Congress during its weakest hour.

Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant said, the party had no formal stance on the issue. Mr Pawar has said it was an informal meeting. Why should we comment on his meeting with Mr Rane ?

A tie-up between Rane and NCP would help both to support each other in the bid to win the two Lok Sabha seats from coastal Konkan. NCPs former minister Sunil Tatkare is likely to contest from the adjoining Raigad constituency.

Over the last few weeks, the saffron parties have shown signs of a truce and better camarderie with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, sharing dias at functions together. This dimishes scope for Ranes future tie up with BJP, given his rivalry with the Sena. BJP had taken Rane with the hope of expanding its base in Konkan, where it does not have much of a presence. However, Sena had opposed Rane, a former Sena rebels entry in to the state cabinet.

BJPs revenue minister Chandrakant Patil, when asked to comment on this development, only said that Rane was a smart politician, who would take an appropriate decision.As she carries out whirlwind tours across Rajasthan coming to the fag end of the election campaign, chief minister Vasundhara Raje tells Urvashi Dev Rawal that there is no anti-incumbency and BJP will retain power based on the work done by the government in the last five years. Edited excerpts of the interview.

Your critics claim you were inaccessible in your tenure? Do you think that is a just criticism?

Why dont you look at the facts? I was out for four yatras and countless other visits. We started with the Sarkar Aapke Dwar after elections. Then we had the Aapki Zika, Aapki Sarkar, followed by the Jan Samwad. And we wrapped it up with the statewide Rajasthan Gaurav Yatra. Accessibility is not just about Jaipur. Because some time you have to work. And the result that Ive given you I could not have done without spending some time (working). So apart from meeting the people, I did spend time in working. I dont think that should be a black mark. Its easy to malign a woman. Every election you hear the same thing.

You say that the BJP government has worked hard for five years. BJP national president Amit Shah also said you did a lot of work but failed to market your achievements. Do you agree?

I dont think so. I think I spent more time working. I didnt think there was enough time talking to all of you. Either I could do that or I could just work.

Also Read: Rajasthan assembly elections 2018: Unemployment dole, jobs in BJP manifesto

BJP is banking on beneficiaries as a vote bank this time?

This is the first time that so many people on the ground have been benefitted. Thats the hard work we have put in during the last five years to bring development to the people. People will be supportive. In our culture, we are taught some things like respect for elders, offering prayers, to respect books and knowledge. Working for people is also part of our sanskar (culture). We are not doing any favour to the people. This is their right. And we are counting beneficiaries so we know how many have received their rights and so I can then pursue it further.

Do you think this election is BJP versus the people?

How can you say that? Not at all. This election is BJPs election for the people based on the work we have done. Versus them was when earlier governments did nothing and allowed them to lag.

You changed many faces in the ticket distribution. Was it to overcome anti-incumbency?

We used technology and surveys and workers feedback and gave tickets according to that. We had to take the wishes of local areas on board. We had a core committee of 15 people and under our national party president Amit Shahs guidance, we worked hard at it. It was not a mercurial thought to change tickets.

Farmers and youth seem dissatisfied. Do you think the Congress is trying to cash in on their disillusionment?

I dont think so. If Congress is so concerned, where were they in the last 5 years? They should have gone village to village and spoken to farmers. They have promised loan waiver but the BJP government has already done that. Electricity waiver is already done. Girls education is taken care of. The employment figures are in the public domain and for all to see.

How do you view Manvendra Singh contesting against you from Jhalrapatan?

People want someone who will stay there. Sending someone all the way from Barmer to Hadoti, even people understand that he wont stay there and this is a one-time thing.

This time issues of religion, caste, creed have all crept into the election campaign. Have development issues have taken a backseat?

I dont believe that. It is the Congress that is raking up these issues as they have nothing else to say on development. You can criticise but you also have to say what you have to offer.

These elections are being seen as a semi-final to 2019. Do you agree?

All these years these elections have been held in December. No one asked this question before. Its the media that is hyping up the issue, not us.

Read More: Rajasthan Assembly Election 2018: PM Modi tears into Congress with his naamdar jibe

If re-elected to power, what will be your priorities?

I dont think we have done enough on IT. It is the future. For farmers, we have to link them to the market by providing logistics and cold chains. For the youth, we have to bring investment into the state, promote industry, self-employment. We are working on tourism which can offer employment opportunities.

You once said this election is of women. Why did you say that? Women have voted in large numbers in elections.

You would have noticed that women are coming out more and more and they are taking a lot more interest. Being a female CM also has their interest. Lot of them believe that they can also do good things. They are also voting in large numbers. They understand that they can make a difference.

There was speculation that cabinet minister Yunus Khan was not getting a ticket due to opposition by the RSS?

No, there was no opposition. His ticket was held back as part of our strategy. We knew three seats Sachin Pilot would contest from  Nagar, Nasirabad and Tonk  and we had candidates for all three seats.

For full assembly elections coverage, click here.Pitted against the BJP chief minister Vasundhara Raje in a high-stakes contest, the Congress candidate Manvendra Singh is asking voters in the Jhalrapatan constituency whether they want their vote to go in favour of an outgoing government or for the incoming one.

The Congress leader, who switched over from the BJP just weeks before being fielded against the chief minister, is putting this poser in all his election meetings throughout the day while asserting that there was a wave in favour of the grand-old party across the state leaving no doubt about who would form the government.

Apna mat kisko doge? Avavaldhi ko ya Javavaldhi ko (You will give your vote to the incoming government or the outgoing government?), he asked the crowd in Daulatpura village during his campaign trail.

Dubbed as an outsider and a turncoat by his opponents, Singh is looking to counter these charges with an extensive outreach campaign for which he sets off in the morning and till late evening goes from village to village to interact with the people of the constituency and seek votes.

Dressed in his trademark dhoti, kurta and a colourful bandhej safa, Singh greets people along the way, obliges selfie seekers, and tells people to vote in large numbers.

His electoral pitch to voters remains the same as he reaches out to village elders, youth and even children.

In Devchi village here, he highlighted the lack of roads and drainage system, saying if villages in a VIP constituency were in such a state then what would be the condition of other places.

Even before polling, people know what the result would be. There is a wave that the incoming government will be of the Congress. There is no dispute on that. The only point of debate is how many seats it will get.

Some say 130, some say 140, while some even say over 150. So when there is no doubt about this, the question to you is whether your vote will be in favour of the incoming government or the outgoing government, he asked voters in Devchi village.

There are 200 assembly seats in Rajasthan and election for 199 seats would be held on December 7 as the polling for one seat has to be postponed due to death of a BSP candidate. Votes would be counted on December 11.

Raje formed the state government with a massive majority in the 2013 assembly elections, in which the BJP had won a record 163 seats and the Congress could get just 21. The BSP had got three seats, while independents and candidates of other parties won 13.

With the Congress making an all-out effort to return to power in Rajasthan, Singh said the government that will come this time will be for the villages and for the welfare of the farmers.

Another common theme of his campaign meetings is highlighting the key farmers-related promises made by the Congress in its manifesto such as loan waiver for them and pension for elderly farmers for the first time.

In Rampuria village, he repeated his pitch to voters and also welcomed a BJP worker into the Congress fold.

Often, Singh also tries to connect with village elders and farmers and tells them to take care of the December 7 voting.

This time it will be the Congress hand that will win from here, said Gangaram, a farmer, referring to the partys poll symbol.

Another farmer at one of Singhs meeting, Jujhar Singh, said it was time for a change as development has lagged behind in the village.

While support for Singh in villages seems to be growing, it appears to be an uphill task for him in the city where people swear by the rapid development undertaken by Raje to give the town amenities such hospitals, schools and infrastructure.

Rampal Yadav, an auto-driver, when asked about the much-talked about electoral battle here, said it was just a hype and in reality it was a one-sided contest in favour of Raje.

Echoing his views, a restaurant owner said the credit for all the development in the city goes to Raje and she will win comfortably.

Manvendra Singhs wife, Chitra Singh, has also been working hard in the city, campaigning for her husband from morning to evening in a bid to win supporters.

Rajput vote is crucial for both candidates and they have been trying to woo the community with outreach efforts.

Singh also addressed a Rajput community meeting on Friday where Rajput leaders called for unity and support for him.

Chitra Singh also exhorted the gathering to unite and said the Rajput community needed to learn from other communities when it comes to acting unitedly.

The result may be difficult to guess, but Singh is making an all-out effort in what is being seen as a prestige battle.

The much-talked about differences between the two leaders have made the Singh-Raje battle even more interesting.

Click here for complete coverage of Rajasthan Assembly Election 2018The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 50 out of the 59 seats reserved for the Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in Rajasthan to return to power in the state in 2013. The Congress bagged 34 of the reserved seats in the 200-member assembly and went on to form the government in the state five years earlier. The SCs (17.8%) and the STs (13.5%) account for the Rajasthans 31.3% population and are key to who rules the state.

The SC seats are spread throughout the states seven divisions while those for the STs are concentrated in the Udaipur division, which has been the focus of the two main parties vying for power. Chief minister Vasundhara Raje launched her campaign from Udaipur divisions Charbhuja temple in August. Congress president Rahul Gandhi held his first election rally in Rajasthan in the divisions Sagwara a month later.

The BJP is buoyed by tribal leader Kirodi Lal Meenas return to the party a decade after he left it amid differences with Raje. The Congress has included tribal leader Raghuveer Singh Meena to its highest decision-making body, the Congress Working Committee, as part of its efforts to woo the tribals.

Also Read: Rajasthan assembly elections 2018: Unemployment dole, jobs in BJP manifesto

Rajasthan Adivasi Adhikar Manch (Tribal Rights Forum) convenor Dharamchand Khair, 45, said there was anger against the BJP in tribal areas. The BJP government made MNREGA weak, said Khair, referring to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act under which 100-day employment is annually provided to an adult member of every rural household.

Khair blamed the Raje government for complicating the social security schemes delivery by introducing point-of-sale machines in areas where mobile connectivity is an issue. People are facing problems in claiming their social security pensions and [subsidised] PDS [Public Distribution System] rations, said Khair, whose organisation is an amalgam of 27 groups working for the tribal rights.

Khair, who lives in Udaipurs Kotda block, said villages in Southern Rajasthan still lack basic amenities like roads and electricity. The anger is also over the slow pace of granting land titles to tribals in forests... Over the five years of the BJP government, only 6,000 people got the titles. Between 2009 and 2012, 32,000 titles were granted.

In Alwar, which is part of the region where the SC population is concentrated in Rajasthans northern and eastern parts, Dalit rights activist Surajmal Kardam, too, spoke about the anger against the BJP. The students have not got scholarships for years. Our girls were excluded from the [government]s Scooty distribution scheme, he said. He called the criminal cases against over 2,500 people following the April 2 Bharat Bandh as the biggest reason for their anger.

The bandh was called against the Supreme Courts directions in March to prevent the misuse of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act (the SC/ST Act). The directions were seen as an attempt to weaken the law. The protests over them had forced the Centre to bring a legislation to overturn them.

Kardam accused the BJP government of not considering them as Hindus. He alleged Dalits were booked for peaceful protests for their rights. Kardam said 23 Dalits from Sikar were still in jail while 113 from Alwar got bail after three months. BJP MLAs stood with the police to book our men under sections that dub us anti-nationals.

Read More: Campaigning for Assembly polls gathers steam in Rajasthan

The legislation to overturn the courts directions has angered the upper caste communities, which are the mainstay of the BJPs support base. In Karaulis Hindaun town, upper caste protesters had set houses of a BJP legislator and a former minister afire a day after the Bharat Bandh. There is anger among the upper castes over the BJP decision on the SC/ST Act. The move to appease the SCs will boomerang on the BJP, said Ramesh Vyas, a trader in Pali district.

BJP spokesman Mukesh Pareek insisted his party is going to win more seats in tribal belt. [This is] because most of the [BJP government]s schemes... have benefitted the SCs and STs. 

Congress spokesman Satyendra Singh Raghav said that the SCs and STs has always voted for his party and that the tribal region has always been its bastion. Last time they got trapped in fake promises....

Political analyst M L Yadav said there is anger against the BJP government among all sections. The anger among the SCs is simmering since April 2. But they have been silent about it. A lot will depend on how they express it on December 7 [polling day]. The tribes have different issues but mostly the weakening of NREGA has robbed them of job opportunities and led them to migration to the neighbouring Gujarat.

For full assembly elections coverage, click here.

Red Mountain - New Geochemical Anomalies Identified

Ballarat, Dec 4, 2018 AEST (ABN Newswire) - White Rock Minerals Ltd ( ASX:WRM ) is pleased to announce that it has identified a number of high priority geochemical anomalies within its recently expanded 100% owned Red Mountain high-grade zinc - silver - lead - gold - copper volcanogenic massive sulphide ("VMS") Project in Alaska.Highlights:- A detailed regional stream sediment survey identifies 8 high priority geochemical targets for follow-up.- Strong base metal anomalism up to 1.1% zinc in streams indicates high prospectivity for outcropping massive sulphides.- Strong precious metal and other pathfinder elements detected.- Target areas cluster in two distinct areas; west of the known mineralisation at Dry Creek (the southern limb of the Bonnifield syncline) and in the Glacier Creek area with strong sulphide footwall alteration on the northern limb of the Bonnifield syncline.During the 2018 field season White Rock completed a detailed regional stream sediment program over prospective stratigraphy within the Red Mountain project area. This part of the comprehensive 2018 exploration program was optimised based on the geochem orientation survey completed across known mineralisation at Dry Creek. This "calibration" provided a geochemical signature of base metal and precious metal elements together with other pathfinders to use for future exploration of the VMS prospective stratigraphy on both the northern and southern limbs of the regional Bonnifield syncline.This 2018 reconnaissance program identified a number of extensive alteration features for future exploration. Some of these extend on surface for several kilometres of strike. The results from the regional stream sampling program have successfully highlighted 8 priority anomalies within the area of alteration (Figure 1 in link below), providing areas for immediate focus through follow-up ground reconnaissance, surface sampling and the application of electrical geophysics prior to drill targeting.The significance of some of the geochemical anomalies is illustrated by the tenor of anomalism with one stream sample returning 1.1% Zn in an area towards the top of the VMS prospective stratigraphy to the west of the Dry Creek deposit. No previous exploration has prospected the immediate catchment area indicating how prospective the immediate surrounds remain.In addition, the area of the northern limb known as Glacier Creek displays footwall sulphide alteration that extends for over 10km of strike. The stream sediment survey has identified 4 discrete high priority targets within the area of alteration. Follow-up work will now be able to focus on these discrete areas of anomalism to enable rapid advancement to drill testing in 2019.CEO Matt Gill said "We recently expanded our tenement footprint three-fold, to now hold a strategic land package of some 475km2. This expansion follows a successful first year of field activities for White Rock where drilling intersected multiple high-grade intervals of zinc-silver-lead-gold-copper mineralisation at Dry Creek and West Tundra (ASX Announcements dated 18 June 2018, 4 July 2018 and 20 August 2018). With some drill hole results returning in excess of 17% zinc, 6% lead, 1,000 g/t silver, 6 g/t gold and 1.5% copper, the 2018 field season also saw three reconnaissance crews out in the field mapping and sampling. The culmination of this work encouraged White Rock to expand its strategic tenement holding to take in more of what has been identified as a highly prospective geological setting.In addition to this successful drilling campaign, including a new discovery of high-grade zinc-rich VMS mineralisation at the Hunter prospect, we now have the results from our regional stream sediment sampling campaign. These results reinforce our belief that the Red Mountain project could yield a camp of VMS deposits in the year ahead.Together with the expansion of the tenement package to 475km2 and coverage of multiple new VMS occurrences throughout the Bonnifield district (Figure 2 in link below), White Rock is now poised to advance the project rapidly in 2019 through a second year of aggressive prospecting and drilling."To view tables and figures, please visit:About White Rock Minerals Ltd

White Rock Minerals Ltd (ASX:WRM) (OTCMKTS:WRMCF) is a diversified explorer and near-stage producer, headquartered in Ballarat, Victoria. The Company's flagship exploration project is Red Mountain in central Alaska. At Red Mountain, there are already two high grade zinc - silver - gold - lead VMS deposits, with an Inferred Mineral Resource of 9.1 million tonnes @ 609g/t AgEq / 13% ZnEq. The Company is also exploring its recently discovered large intrusion related gold anomaly at Last Chance, also located in the Tintina gold belt of Alaska, home to multi-million gold ounce deposits like Pogo, Fort Knox and the Donlin Project. The Company also has the Mt Carrington project, located near Drake, in Northern NSW, which is a near-production precious metals asset with a resource of 341,000 ounces of gold and 23.2 million ounces of silver on an approved mining lease, and with a Gold First PFS and JORC Reserve.Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday asked voters to expose the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS)s secret partnership with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and vote them out in the December 7 Telangana assembly elections. He alleged Prime Minister Narendra Modi remote-controlled Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) while calling the TRS the BJPs B team and its ally, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM), its C team.

Gandhi said there were only two  pro and anti-BJP  fronts in the country. He added the anti-BJP group comprised the Congress and other like-minded parties. In Telangana, too, there are only two groups  the TRS and [the Congress-led] Peoples Front. And the TRS has a secret understanding with the BJP and both of them are working together, Gandhi said at an election rally at Gadwal, 188 km from Hyderabad.

He recalled the TRS supported the Modi government in the passage of the Goods and Services Tax Bill in 2016, the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes the same year and in the presidential and vice-presidential polls. KCR has never criticised Modi directly He said KCR was being remote-controlled because he feared his corrupt practices would get exposed if he opposed Modi. That is why, the TRS has transformed into Telangana RSS [Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the BJPs parent organisation].

Read more: Vote share in 2014

Gandhi called the MIM an indirect Modi supporter. He added the MIM fielded candidates in the assembly elections in Maharashtra (2014) and Assam (2016) to split the Congress votes to help the BJP. If TRS is BJPs team B, MIM is nothing but its C team. Their only ambition is to make Modi the PM again while retaining power in the state. But we shall defeat Team B and Team C in the assembly elections and Team A [the BJP] in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, he said at a separate rally in Tandur.

He said the TRS had promised to make the countrys newest state a Bangaru Telangana [Golden Telangana].

He added it had only made KCRs family a Bangaru Kutumbam [Golden Family]. Telangana, which had a revenue surplus of Rs 17,000 crore when it was formed, is now reeling under severe debts to the tune of Rs 2 lakh crore. Each family is now facing a debt burden of Rs 1.50 lakh, while the wealth of KCRs family increased by 400%.

He alleged massive corruption in irrigation projects and added the KCR government had escalated their costs abnormally in the name of redesigning. For instance, the cost of Palamur-Ranga Reddy Lift Scheme, which was estimated to cost Rs 10,000 crore originally, went up to Rs 60,000 crore, thanks to the KCR familys loot through commissions. The Congress, if voted to power, shall complete the project without any additional cost.

Gandhi accused KCR of betraying all sections of the people by failing to keep promises made before the last elections in 2014. The unemployed youth were ditched as the government did not fill vacant posts. Farmers did not get remunerative prices for their produce. When chill farmers agitated for remunerative prices, he got them handcuffed and jailed.

Read more: Win map in 2014

Gandhi promised to waive up to Rs 1 lakh crop loans if the Congress is voted to power. When Modi can waive Rs 3.50 lakh crore bank loans of just five individuals, why cannot we waive crop loans of farmers?

KCR rejected Gandhis allegations. Rahul Gandhi says TRS is the BJPs team B. When Modi comes here, he says the TRS is a Congress by-product. I am not anybodys agent. I am the peoples agent, he said at a rally in Nalgonda on Monday.

MIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi accused the Congress of colluding with the BJP to defeat the TRS in some Hyderabad constituencies by fielding weak candidates. We are supporting the TRS because the Congress has lost the faith of the Muslims. How can we forget the fact that the Congress government had got my brother arrested in the past?

For full coverage of Telangana assembly elections, click hereThe victory of the Maha Kootami or grand alliance of four political parties will help resolve issues between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, the state from which Telangana was carved out in 2014, a spokesperson from the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) said.

The Maha Kootami is an alliance between four political parties, including TDP and the Indian National Congress, to challenge caretaker chief minister K Chandrashekar Raos Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) in the upcoming assembly polls on December 7.

KCR hopes to survive on promoting regional conflicts by projecting Andhra people as villains. We want to put an end to his drama in the current election by exposing his non-performance, said D Manikya Vara Prasad, TDP spokesperson.

K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR)s loss and Maha Kootamis win will make way for a positive climate for better coordination between the two states to address bifurcation-related issues, Vara Prasad said.

Read more: Vote share in 2014

TRS member of legislative council Pathuri Sudhakar Reddy said that in its four years, the KCR government has treated all Andhra settlers as part of Telangana without any discrimination.

Its only the TDPs (Chandrababu) Naidu who is trying to gain mileage in the elections by projecting KCR as inimical to Andhra settlers, he said.

AP chief minister Naidu left the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance earlier this year, stating that the Centre has not fulfilled its promise of granting special status to the state after its bifurcation. Both Telangana and AP are currently locked in many disputes, including sharing resources like the Krishna and the Godavari river water, besides distribution of assets and institutions under the IX and X schedules of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act (APRA) 2014, which came into effect after the bifurcation of AP.

There are 107 institutions (including state owned corporations) listed under schedule X and 91 listed under schedule IX. The Sheela Bhide committee, which was tasked with bifurcating assets under schedule IX, has submitted a report on only 77 till now. Both states have fought each other over bifurcation of institutions, such as the Andhra Pradesh Heavy Machinery and Engineering Limited, and the AP State Council Higher Education.

Read more: Win map of 2014

In the past, TRS, which spearheaded the separate statehood movement, had threatened to close educational institutions run by Andhra residents in Telangana, and stalled screening of movies made by the Andhra Pradesh film industry. In 2010, Telangana Jagruti, an outfit headed by KCRs daughter K. Kavitha, stalled the screening of NT Rama Rao Junior (the grandson of former Andhra Pradesh chief minister NT Rama Rao) film Adurs.

However, both TRS and TDP have not got into the nitty-gritty of distribution of assets under APRA in their poll campaigns.

KCR is obviously not interested to demonstrate his largesse by making a case for AP vis-a-vis distribution of assets. (Chandrababu) Naidu cannot afford to raise issues pertained to his home state in Telangana as such utterances might hurt his Maha Kootamis electoral interests, political analyst K. Nageswar said.

Experts believe that the significant Andhra population in Telangana will decide the fortunes of political parties fighting the election in at least 20-25 assembly segments.

For full coverage of Telangana assembly elections, click hereUS President Donald Trump on Monday said that Americas relationship with China has taken a BIG leap forward and he was willing to have a trilateral discussion involving Russia to reduce the arms race, a day after his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Argentina.

My meeting in Argentina with President Xi of China was an extraordinary one. Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward! Trump tweeted.

During the meeting on Saturday, Xi and Trump agreed to suspend any new tariffs and take steps to address the trade disputes, which over the past few months had threatened to spill over into a trade war between the worlds two largest economies.

Trump agreed that on January 1, 2019, he will leave the tariffs on USD 200 billion worth of product at the 10 per cent rate, and not raise it to 25 per cent at this time.

Very good things will happen. We are dealing from great strength, but China likewise has much to gain if and when a deal is completed. Level the field! Trump said.

Farmers will be a a very BIG and FAST beneficiary of our deal with China. They intend to start purchasing agricultural product immediately. We make the finest and cleanest product in the World, and that is what China wants. Farmers, I LOVE YOU! the US president tweeted.

Trump said he and Xi have a very strong and personal relationship.

He and I are the only two people that can bring about massive and very positive change, on trade and far beyond, between our two great Nations. A solution for North Korea is a great thing for China and ALL! he asserted.

Trump also talked about reducing arms race between US, China and Russia.

I am certain that, at some time in the future, President Xi and I, together with President Putin of Russia, will start talking about a meaningful halt to what has become a major and uncontrollable Arms Race. The US spent 716 Billion Dollars this year. Crazy! Trump tweeted.The UKs opposition Labour on Sunday announced it would bring a no-confidence motion against the minority government of Theresa May if it fails to get legislators approval for her deal to exit the European Union.

In this crucial week, the Brexit agreement will be placed before Parliament for debate. Voting on it is scheduled for December 11.

Its almost certain that the government will not win the vote in the House of Commons, given the growing number of MPs  including from the ruling Conservatives  declaring their decision to oppose it. The eventuality will take the UK into uncertain territory.

If the prime minister has lost a vote of that significance, then there has to be a question of confidence in the government. I think its inevitable that we would seek to move that, Labours Keir Starmer, shadow Brexit secretary, told Sky News.

There is growing cross-party support for the idea of a second referendum. The first one, held in 2016, resulted in a 52% Leave vote, while 48% voted Remain.

Starmer piled up further pressure by stating in a Sunday article that May should publish the full legal advice tendered to her cabinet on the issue of Brexit, amid reports that it includes caution that the UK is likely to be permanently tied into EU rules under the current deal.

He wrote: If the full legal advice is not forthcoming, we will have no alternative but to start proceedings for contempt of Parliament - and we will work with all parties to take this forward. The full legal implications of this deal clearly need to be known and debated in full by our Parliament.

On her part, May continued to insist during the G20 summit in Argentina that the current withdrawal agreement is the only one on the table and that it is in the national interest. She is optimistic about being able to convince MPs to vote for it.

Speaking in Buenos Aires on Saturday, May said: The next nine days are a really important time for our country leading up to the vote on this deal. I will be talking with members of Parliament obviously and explaining to them why I believe this is a good deal for the UK.

Various likely scenarios being talked about include a general election, if and when the government loses the Parliament vote on December 11.Slain journalist Jamal Khashoggi, in over 400 WhatsApp messages that he sent to a fellow Saudi exile before he was murdered in October, described Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman as a beast and a pac-man who would devour all in his path, even his supporters, a media report said.

Khashoggi had sent the texts to Montreal-based activist Omar Abdulaziz, the CNN report said on Monday.

The messages shared by Abdulaziz, which include voice recordings, photos and videos, paint a picture of a man deeply troubled by what he regarded as the petulance of the Crown Prince.

The more victims he eats, the more he wants, says Khashoggi in one message sent in May, just after a group of Saudi activists had been rounded up.

I will not be surprised if the oppression will reach even those who are cheering him on.

In almost daily exchanges between October 2017 and August 2018, Khashoggi and Abdulaziz conceived plans to form an electronic army to engage young Saudis back home and debunk state propaganda on social media, leveraging Khashoggis establishment profile and the 27-year-old Abdulazizs 340,000-strong Twitter following.

(Jamal]) believed that MBS (the Crown Prince) is the issue, is the problem and he said this kid should be stopped, Abdulaziz said in an interview with CNN on Sunday.

But in August, when he believed their conversations may have been intercepted by Saudi authorities, a sense of foreboding descends over Khashoggi.

God help us, he wrote.

Two months later, he was dead.

Abdulaziz on Sunday launched a lawsuit against an Israeli company that invented the software he believes was used to hack his phone.

The hacking of my phone played a major role in what happened to Jamal, I am really sorry to say, Abdelaziz told CNN. The guilt is killing me.

Abdulaziz began speaking out against the Saudi regime as a college student in Canada. His pointed criticisms of government policies drew the attention of the Saudi state, which cancelled his university scholarship.

Canada granted him asylum in 2014 and made him a permanent resident three years later.

Abdulaziz first spoke publicly about his contact with Khashoggi last month after researchers at the University of Torontos Citizen Lab reported his phone had been hacked by military-grade spyware.United States President Donald Trump has sought Pakistans help with Afghan peace talks in a letter to Prime Minister Imran Khan, the South Asian nations information minister Fawad Chaudhry said on Monday.

Trump wants to end a 17-year-old war between Afghan security forces and Taliban militants, who are fighting to drive out international forces and establish their version of strict Islamic law.

US officials have long been pushing Pakistan to lean on the Taliban leadership, which Washington says is based in the country, to bring them to the negotiating table. President Trump has written a letter, Chaudhry told Reuters. He has asked for Pakistans cooperation to bring the Taliban into talks.

Trump told Khan the Pakistan relationship was very important to the United States and to finding a solution to the Afghanistan conflict, Chaudhry added. The US embassy in Islamabad had no immediate comment on the letter.

Last month, Trump said in an interview Pakistan doesnt do a damn thing for the United States despite billions of dollars in US aid, adding that Pakistani officials knew of former al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Ladens location before his killing by US troops in a 2011 raid inside Pakistan.

Last week, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said he had formed a 12-strong team to negotiate peace with the Taliban, but warned that implementation of any deal would take at least five years.Kamala Harris, the first Indian-American US senator, will decide whether she will run for the White House in 2020 over the holiday. It will ultimately be a family decision, she said at an event in San Francisco on Saturday. And over the holiday, I will make that decision with my family.

If Harris decides to run, as has been speculated from the time she was elected to the Senate in 2016, she will notch up a pair of firsts: the first Indian American woman and the first African-American woman to mount a bid for the White House. Her mother is from India and father from Jamaica. The California senator has been frequently mentioned along with a growing list of Democrats said to be planning a run for the Democrat party nomination to go up against Republican Donald Trump in 2020, and deny him a second term.

Its a packed field at present. But Harris is among the favourites, coming in at Number 3 in a poll by CNN in October, behind former vice president Joe Biden and Senator Bernie Sanders, in the first and second positions respectively. She narrowly edged out Senator Elizabeth Warren, the firebrand lawmaker who has clashed with Trump.

Tulsi Gabbard, the Democratic member of the House of Representatives from Hawaii, did not figure in that early poll by CNN. But she is said to be considering a run as well, according to some Indian Americans sounded out by her. If she decides to, she will be the first Hindu to run for the countrys elective top office. Bobby Jindal, the first Indian American to get into the race, in 2016, is Christian.

Democrats are rushing to the starting line more and more as President Trump has appeared vulnerable, besieged by an unending litany of scandals and probes. The 2018 midterm elections last month did not help him much. Though he sought to portray it as a victory as Republicans improved their tally in the Senate, the party lost the House of Representatives by a wide margin. There is talk of Republicans planning to primary him as well, run against him in the primaries, which is rare for a sitting president.Pakistan has set up a border check post with an immigration office in the Kartarpur section of the border with India in Narowal district, officials have said.

Mufakhar Adeel, deputy director of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), which oversees immigration matters in Pakistan, told the Dawn newspaper that the immigration office is located near the Kartarpur Gurdwara, which was built at the site where Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh religion, died.

He said since the border crossing could be an easy target for terrorists, human traffickers and drug dealers, a strong mechanism is required to keep the situation under control on both sides of the border.

Adeel said his officers will check the documents of pilgrims and identify them through biometric technology. He said Sikh pilgrims having visas will be allowed to enter Kartarpur town while pilgrims with permits will be given access only to the gurdwara.

India and Pakistan recently launched work on their respective sections of a corridor that will allow Indian pilgrims to visit the gurdwara without visas. The corridor is expected to open for the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak in November 2019 and the two countries will work out modalities for permits that will be issued to pilgrims to visit the shrine.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said that his government and the army wanted a civilised relationship with India and declared that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step.

Khan cited examples of France and Germany which fought many wars but eventually came closer.

(With PTI inputs)Along with the rest of the industry, the AA is gearing up for issuing green cards in potentially significant numbers which may be needed for entry into mainland Europe, to prove that insurance cover is in place. Currently, under EU law, all motor insurance issued in the EU is valid throughout the EU as well as Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Iceland to the minimum that is legally required in each country, usually third party only. Many insurers including the AA, extend their comprehensive cover to countries outside the UK, typically for up to 90 days and there are no plans to change that in future, regardless of the Brexit outcome. The green card is a United Nations initiative recognised the world over. Some countries issue green cards electronically as a pdf, which can be printed at home (although it must be printed in colour, ie with a green background, to be legal) and the UK insurance industry is considering whether they can be issued them in this way. Janet Connor, the AAs director of insurance says: Around 4.7 million drivers take their cars into Europe each year, excluding commercial traffic and I see no reason why that should change even after a hard Brexit. Insurers already issue green cards for drivers taking their cars beyond European borders and some ask for one for the additional comfort they provide in proving, if needed, that their car is insured. The green card is, after all, essentially a multi-language translation of your insurance certificate set out in an internationally recognisable format. Cover that you have isnt going to suddenly stop at midnight on 28th March but it would be prudent to ask your insurer for a green card before you go, if you expect to be away on that date. Although there may be more queueing at ferry ports as documents are checked when leaving and re-entering the UK, once in Europe there is no restriction in driving across borders. No-one is going to single out British drivers when they travel between say, France and Belgium. I see no need to change your travel plans because of Brexit. The AA also points out that in the event of no Brexit transition, International Driving Permits (IDP) are also likely to be needed. From 1st February, these will only be available from Post Offices by applying in person. Currently the AA issues them by mail order. Two different types will apply: A 1949 Convention IDP for Republic of Ireland, Spain, Malta, Cyprus or,

A 1968 Convention IDP for all other EU countries and for Norway and Switzerland

If driving via France to Spain, therefore, drivers will need to take both types.The first manned space mission to the International Space Station since an unprecedented accident in October, which raised concerns about Moscows Soviet-designed spacecraft, will launch on Monday.

Oleg Kononenko of the Russian space agency Roscosmos, Anne McClain of NASA and David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency brushed aside any possible safety concerns, saying risk was just part of the job.

They are set to launch at 1131 GMT Monday aboard a Soyuz from Baikonur in Kazakhstan for a six-and-a-half month mission.

Read more: 3 astronauts set to launch to space station on Monday, says NASA

The launch comes after a Soyuz rocket carrying Russias Aleksey Ovchinin and US astronaut Nick Hague failed on October 11 just minutes after blast-off, forcing the pair to make an emergency landing.

They escaped unharmed but the failed launch was the first such incident in Russias post-Soviet history and a new setback for the countrys once proud space industry.

In a photo provided by Roscosmos, NASA Astronaut Nick Hague, left, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexei Ovchinin after an emergency landing following the failure of a Russian booster rocket carrying them to the International Space Station, in Baikonur, Kazakhstan. The Soyuz craft experienced a problem minutes after liftoff, en route to the International Space Station, but the capsule landed safely. (NYT)

Ahead of Mondays launch a Russian Orthodox priest blessed the spaceship on its launchpad, in accordance with tradition, while the crew spoke calmly of the dangers involved.

Risk is part of our profession, crew commander Oleg Kononenko told a news conference at Baikonur on Sunday, adding they absolutely trusted teams preparing them for the flight.

Read more: Lights flashed, alarms blared as we plunged to earth: NASA astronaut describes ordeal of failed launch

We are psychologically and technically prepared for blastoff and any situation which, God forbid, may occur on board, the 54-year-old said.

Kononenko added that the crew would conduct a spacewalk on December 11 as part of an investigation into a mysterious hole that has caused an air leak on the ISS.

Anne McClain, a 39-year-old former military pilot, said the crew looked forward to going up.

We feel very ready for it, she said.

Soyuz in my backyard

Canadas Saint-Jacques, 48, described the Soyuz spacecraft as incredibly safe.

The accident highlighted the smart design of the Soyuz and the incredible work that the search and rescue people here on the ground are ready to do every launch, he said.

Saint-Jacques joked that he had received so much training ahead of the flight that I felt at the end that I could build a Soyuz in my backyard.

Of the trio set to reach the ISS six hours after blastoff, both Saint-Jacques and McClain will fly for the first time.

Russia said last month the launch failed because of a sensor that was damaged during assembly at the Baikonur cosmodrome but insisted the spacecraft remained reliable. (REUTERS)

Kononenko is beginning his fourth mission to add to an impressive 533 days in space.

Russia said last month the launch failed because of a sensor that was damaged during assembly at the Baikonur cosmodrome but insisted the spacecraft remained reliable.

The Soviet-designed Soyuz rocket is currently the worlds only lifeline to the ISS.

Read more: Unmanned cargo ship to ISS burned in atmosphere: Russian space agency

Saint-Jacques will be the first Canadian astronaut to visit the space station since Chris Hadfield, who recorded a version of David Bowies Space Oddity classic on board in 2013.

Canadas governor general and former astronaut Julie Payette is expected to be among the dignitaries to watch Mondays launch.

Spacewalking like rugby

McClain served in Iraq and has represented the United States at womens rugby.

She has said that training to spacewalk resembled the sport since it demands grit, toughness, mental focus, and more.

Russia-US cooperation in space has so far remained one of the few areas not affected by a crisis in ties between the former Cold War enemies.

Specialists and rescuers gather near the Soyuz capsule transporting U.S. astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Alexei Ovchinin, after it made an emergency landing following a failure of its booster rockets, near the city of Zhezkazgan in central Kazakhstan. (REUTERS)

But comments by the combative chief of the Russian space agency, Dmitry Rogozin, have increasingly raised eyebrows.

He recently joked Russia would send a mission to the Moon to verify whether or not NASA lunar landings ever took place.

In recent years Russias debt-laden space industry has suffered a number of mishaps including the loss of cargo spacecraft and satellites.A Russian-made Soyuz rocket blasted a three-man crew into orbit on Monday, beginning the first manned voyage to the International Space Station since a mission in October was aborted midair because of a rocket malfunction.

Welcome to Space! The trio is now safely in orbit and solar arrays have successfully deployed on their Soyuz spacecraft. They will now embark on six-hour chasedown of the @Space_Station and are expected to arrive later today: https://t.co/FRrjhIw77o pic.twitter.com/2wmO3vC7iT  NASA (@NASA) December 3, 2018

The Soyuz MS-11 flight lifted off from Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan carrying Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, NASA astronaut Anne McClain and the Canadian Space Agencys David Saint-Jacques.

The Soyuz is the only means of reaching the ISS since the United States retired the space shuttle in 2011.

Saint-Jacques will be the first Canadian astronaut to visit the space station since Chris Hadfield, who recorded a version of David Bowies Space Oddity on board in 2013.

Canadas governor general and former astronaut Julie Payette will be among the dignitaries watching the launch.

Saint-Jacques joked that he had received so much training ahead of the flight that I felt at the end that I could build a Soyuz in my backyard. McClain served in Iraq and has represented the United States in womens rugby.

She has said that training to spacewalk resembled the sport since it demands grit, toughness, mental focus, and more.A Sri Lankan court Monday barred Mahinda Rajapaksa from acting as Prime Minister, in a major set back to President Maithripala Sirisena who had installed his former rival in place of Ranil Wickremesinghe in a controversial decision.

The Appeal Court issued notice and an interim order against Rajapaksa and his Government, preventing them from acting as Prime Minister, Cabinet and Deputy Ministers, Colombo Gazette reported.

The order was issued in a Quo Warranto case filed by 122 MPs against Rajapaksa and his Government.

Lanka is witnessing a political crisis since October 26 when President Sirisena sacked Wickeremesinghe and replaced him with Rajapaksa.

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisenas decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls.

Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.

The UNF has moved three no trust motions against Rajapaksa, who has refused to step down.The World Bank on Monday unveiled $200 billion in climate action investment for 2021-25, adding this amounts to a doubling of its current five-year funding.

The World Bank said the move, coinciding with a UN climate summit meeting of some 200 nations in Poland, represented a significantly ramped up ambition to tackle climate change, sending an important signal to the wider global community to do the same.

Developed countries are committed to lifting combined annual public and private spending to $100 billion in developing countries by 2020 to fight the impact of climate change -- up from 48.5 billion in 2016 and 56.7 billion last year, according to latest OECD data.

Southern hemisphere countries fighting the impact of warming temperatures are nonetheless pushing northern counterparts for firmer commitments.

In a statement, the World Bank said the breakdown of the $200 billion would comprise approximately $100 billion in direct finance from the World Bank.

Around one third of the remaining funding will come from two World Bank Group agencies with the rest private capital mobilised by the World Bank Group.

If we dont reduce emissions and build adaptation now, well have 100 million more people living in poverty by 2030, John Roome, World Bank senior director for climate change, warned.

And we also know that the less we address this issue proactively just in three regions -- Africa, South Asia and Latin America -- well have 133 million climate migrants, Roome told AFP.

The banks financing package amounts to about 40 billion a year, but the direct (finance) is 27 billion per year on average, Roome said.

He added that in the 2018 fiscal year, running from July 2017 to June this year, the World Bank had committed $20.5 billion to climate action, compared with an annual average of $13.5 billion for the 2014-2018 period.

Roome said the money now being earmarked amounted to about 35 per cent of the World Bank Groups total financing.

Much of the climate action financing is being set aside for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, notably through development of renewable energy strategies.

However, the World Bank stated that a key priority is boosting support for climate adaptation, given the millions of people already battling the consequences of extreme weather.

By ramping up direct adaptation finance to reach around $50 billion over (fiscal) 21-25, the World Bank will, for the first time, give this equal emphasis alongside investments that reduce emissions, the bank stated.

Given the urgency to act in the face of sea level rise, flooding and drought we must fight the causes, but also adapt to the consequences that are often most dramatic for the worlds poorest people, said World Bank CEO Kristalina Georgieva.

By stepping up financial aid to developing countries worst affected, Georgieva said the bank was committed to adapting infrastructure while investing in climate smart agriculture, sustainable water management and responsive social safety nets as well as early response networks.

Even if we can keep global warming down to 2 degrees Celsius we know youre gonna need a significant amount of adaptation in places like Chad, Mozambique or Bangladesh, said Roome.

The countries whose representatives are meeting at the UN climate summit which opened Sunday in the Polish city of Katowice are seeking to make good on commitments made in the 2015 Paris climate accord.

That agreement saw countries commit to limiting global temperature rises to well below two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit), and to the safer cap of 1.5C if at all possible.J enny Clare thought the warehouse flat she was viewing looked like a dark, damp windy chimney but she fell in love with it anyway  or, at least, she fell for its setting. With its cobbled streets, old brick warehouses connected by iron walkways and the river alongside, Shad Thames feels like a film set.

Theres a medieval quality to this stretch of London below Tower Bridge, once a bustling area used for storing grain and spices, scented with pepper, nutmeg and ginger.

When the last shippers moved out in the Eighties, developers rushed in to create warehouse flats with lots of exposed joists and distinctive, arch-topped windows. Many are listed, and buyers soon lined up.

Finding one with a water tower thrown in was what made the sale for Jenny and her family when they decided to buy in this special area.

Jenny, a British doctor, met her husband in South Africa. After having their three children  Gemma, now 28, also a doctor, Xander and Kate  they moved to the Channel Islands. But one by one their offspring went to university in England and the couple wanted a London flat, both for the children to use and for themselves when they visited.

Jenny had a friend in the area, so in 2013 she began her search by the Thames. I wanted to be near the river, she says, and it is very central, too.

TAKE A VIDEO TOUR:

TODO: define component type brightcove

The couple were gazumped on a flat in 2014 but they shook off their disappointment and looked again. The next flat the agent showed them was The One. It was a two-bedroom, two-bathroom, fourth-floor warehouse converted in the Nineties. Its solid oak floors had darkened, but the high-spec steel kitchen was still in good nick and the bathrooms had circular steel sinks.

With metal-framed windows, cast-iron radiators, exposed brick and a deep-joisted timber roof, the flat was attractive but quite dark. Sulking in a back corner, a cramped spiral staircase led through a hole to a platform from which sprang a big industrial stairway, rising up the height of two storeys through an old brick tower just 12 feet square.

On top sat an empty steel water tank with waist-high sides and a hole cut through for an awkwardly hinged glass door. People kept banging their heads on it, Jenny says. The windowless brick tower was as dark and dank as a chimney. Uninsulated and unheated, wind whistled down it. And the platform from which the clunky stairs sprang only had space to dry clothes.

The couple kept the main flat as it was but sanded the oak floors, lightening the look / Charles Hosea

When Jenny emerged on top to a 360-degree view taking in the Shard and Tower Bridge and saw the sunset and the gulls wheeling, she was bedazzled.

They bought the flat and after letting it for a year, in 2016 they looked for an architect to improve the hopeless tower arrangement and bring in more light. I searched on architect and water tower, Jenny says. She found a Surrey architect who actually lived in a water tower, but they suggested finding someone local. It turned out to be good advice. Jenny spotted Malcolm Crayton of Formstudio, whose work she liked.

Crayton thought the tower had huge potential. He decided to get rid of the tricky spiral staircase and the big clunky upper stair and open up the tiny hole connecting them. To bring in light he sketched a dramatic, tall window in the towers side; an extra, dinky mezzanine floor with a glass balustrade, and a much neater staircase.

At the top he proposed a state-of-the-art hydraulic glass door and another big, walkable skylight on the terrace. All of this extra glass would suffuse the tower  and the flat below  with light. He also added heating and insulation.

However, the warehouse is a listed building and planners turned down the double-height window, requesting two windows matching the rest in the flat. There was then little point making a balconied mezzanine floor, so Crayton put in a complete floor with a big glass section in it that gives as much light, but also provides more usable floor space.

The couple kept the main flat as it was but sanded the oak floors, lightening the look. Crayton put small glass skylights between some roof trusses, doubling the light. Designing a new staircase was a challenge as the tower is wonky and every piece had to be carried up, then bolted together on site. So no piece could be longer than three metres, Crayton says. The complex structure bolted together in three days and fitted like a glove, while reinforced glass floor panels were craned in.

The bespoke open-tread staircase doesnt hog the tower, which now has two super-cute rooms. The lower one is a comfy TV room, while the new one above holds a romantic dining table and chairs.

From here, you can stroll with ease up and out to a roof terrace scented with olive trees and lavender, with a teak storage bench, table and chairs.

By day, light filters all the way down. Gloom, wind and damp are banished. And at sunrise and dusk, the top of the tower is magical. Did someone mention a film set?Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the opening of Hyatt Place Riyadh Al Sulaimania, marking the introduction of the Hyatt Place brand to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the opening of Hyatt Place Riyadh Al Sulaimania, marking the introduction of the Hyatt Place brand to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Developed by Saudi Marhaba Hospitality & Tourism Company, Hyatt Place Riyadh Al Sulaimania joins Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya, Park Hyatt Jeddah and Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah. Later this year, Hyatt House Jeddah Sari Street is expected to open, marking the introduction of Hyatts extended stay brand, Hyatt House, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Hyatt Place brand is rooted in the provision of stylish, comfortable and seamless experiences for guests, accommodating lifestyles and familiar routines with a promise of purposeful service and an uncomplicated stay. Centrally located in the upscale metropolitan neighbourhood of Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, Hyatt Place Riyadh Al Sulaimania provides the perfect location for casual leisure and business travellers and is close to many local attractions, including Thalya Street and Olaya business district.

We are excited to introduce our select services portfolio to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with the opening of the first Hyatt Place hotel, said General Manager Adnan Haider. This hotel strengthens Hyatts position in the region as a brand leader and showcases a different type of guest and hotel experience, one centred around casual hospitality and purposeful service in a smartly-designed environment. We are confident that both business and leisure travellers will enjoy the modern design, easy accessibility and pioneering service concepts offered at Hyatt Place Riyadh Al Sulaimania.

Hyatt Place Riyadh Al Sulaimania offers:

88 spacious guestrooms , including 10 suites, fit with a Cozy Corner and sofa sleeper, as well as luxury bath amenities from KenetMD and high-tech amenities such as 49-inch flat swiveling screen smart IPTV to keep guests charged and connected at all times

, including 10 suites, fit with a Cozy Corner and sofa sleeper, as well as luxury bath amenities from KenetMD and high-tech amenities such as 49-inch flat swiveling screen smart IPTV to keep guests charged and connected at all times Free WiFi and remote printing available throughout the hotel

and remote printing available throughout the hotel Gallery Kitchen Breakfast serving up freshly prepared breakfast items

serving up freshly prepared breakfast items 24/7 Gallery Menu & Market offering perfectly packed grab-and-go items, ranging from freshly prepared snacks and sandwiches to pastries and sweets

offering perfectly packed grab-and-go items, ranging from freshly prepared snacks and sandwiches to pastries and sweets Coffee to Beverages Bar serving a range of beverages at all times

serving a range of beverages at all times Meetings Spaces offer more than 2,600 square feet (242 square meters) across three meeting rooms and pre-function areas, each featuring state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, built-in LCD projectors and screens and 70-inch TVs

offer more than 2,600 square feet (242 square meters) across three meeting rooms and pre-function areas, each featuring state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, built-in LCD projectors and screens and 70-inch TVs 24-hour Gym with cardio equipment and free ear buds

with cardio equipment and free ear buds Outdoor, rooftop swimming pool , jacuzzi and terrace

, jacuzzi and terrace Free underground parking is available

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 2021 Hotel News ResourceThe hotel websites do not have to resemble a leaflet from your hotel lobby. It may be a useful source of information as well as another way of benefiting from great hotel location and multitude of tourist attractions. However, the question is: how to make it real and permanent?

The hotel websites do not have to resemble a leaflet from your hotel lobby. It may be a useful source of information as well as another way of benefiting from great hotel location and multitude of tourist attractions. However, the question is: how to make it real and permanent?

The innovative solution

Nowadays, a great remedy for high competitiveness and a desire to be unique is installing the Our.Guide widget. When the widget is available at the hotel website, the potential hotel guests are able to check the tourist attractions located in the hotel's neighbourhood. Moreover, the hotel guests may verify how far the given spot is located from the hotel, how to get there, when is it open and what the ticket price is.

At present, the widget is becoming more and more popular and it has become a standard in a hotel industry. Today, you may see the Our.Guide widget at more than 500 hotel websites where it is used by over 50,000 hotel guests monthly.

The Our.Guide's owners have just changed their business model. At the moment, the Our.Guide widget is available for free. Moreover, the hotel owners who sell the services and tickets using Tours and Activities widget will receive 5% cash-back of those sales. In this way, the hotels may gain additional source of incomes and hotel guests do not have to look for interesting ways of spending their free time.

Our.Guide widget has been integrated with the most popular OTA services that operate Tours and Activities, such as GetYourGuide.com, Tigets or Viator. The company also plans to integrate with other popular services in the nearest future.

Tour and Activities Sale

Currently, the online sale of admission tickets to popular tourist attractions has been developing very dynamically recently. Moreover, the specialists from the tourism industry predict that in a few years the popularity of buying the entrance tickets to local attractions and activities via the Internet will be the same as online booking of hotels or airline tickets these days.

This trend is also confirmed by recent media reports that say the most popular tourist website TripAdvisor has just bought a Tours & Activities platform for $200 million. Moreover, the TripAdvisor has become an owner of several different similar companies, including: Vacation Home Rental  B2B platform, Oyster.com  website that includes loads of hotel reviews, La Fourchette  a website that allows to book a table in a restaurant and a few more.

Tour and Activities' sales platforms are also gaining more and more bailouts to ensure faster development of this particular industry. A great example can be GetYourGuide.com start-up located in Berlin that has already received a $170 million bailout and a slightly younger Tiqets situated in Amsterdam, has already raised $45.5 million bailout for development, including the latest November investment.

How to start making money on Tour and Activities?

Our.Guide software has been created for hotel managers who do not have time to update offers on their website constantly, describe the tourist attractions in their area or generate dynamic links to partner platforms. Our.Guide is a simple service: you just need to set up an account, set the location of your accommodation, then generate the HTML code and place it only once at your website.

The widget works on every website, the producer also includes installation instructions dedicated to the most popular CMS systems such as Wordpress, WIX or Joomla.

When the widget is installed on the website, the system will display a guide with the tourist attractions in your area, presenting for each of them the distance and estimated travel time from the hotel to the given attraction.

In the place where the given tourist attraction is described, there is a possibility to purchase an online ticket or an on-line trip to this place, the system will show it.

If the visitor (hotel guest) clicks on a link and purchases a ticket for the attraction, the hotel will automatically receive 5% cash-back of the transaction value.

The Our.Guide system is connected to many partner systems and you may be sure that only the best offers that can interest your guests will be presented.

It is worth adding the Our.Guide widget to your hotel website because every day is a chance to make money on your hotel guest's transactions. Nevertheless, your hotel will also provide your guests a sophisticated tool for planning their free time.

About Our.guide:

Our.guide is established in Warsaw, the capital of Poland. The main purpose of the company is to provide high quality SaaS software  Our.Guide provides detailed information about the local tourist attractions and events. The company understands the clients fears that is why, you may test it without any consequences or charges for 14 days.

Headquarter:

John Paul II 61/211 St.

01-031 Warsaw, Poland

email address: contact@our.guide

phone number +48737 432 090

www.our.guide

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 2021 Hotel News Resource'At Studio 54 you had regular people next to celebrities,' he says. 'Everyone was there to have a good time.' The same communal sensibility can translate to hospitality.

Excerpt from Bloomberg

'At Studio 54 you had regular people next to celebrities,' he says. 'Everyone was there to have a good time.' The same communal sensibility can translate to hospitality.

The next big disruptor in hospitality, according to Ian Schrager, is co-living spaces.

Communal living is blurring the distinction between residential and hotels, the hotelier and Studio 54 co-founder argued during Bloombergs Year Ahead: Luxury conference in Manhattan on Thursday.

The mastermind behind the Public Hotel urged audiences to look at millennial buying statistics as evidence of this trend, which has seen growth in so-called co-living, where residents buy into furnished, semi-serviced apartments, either by the unit or by the bedroom. These are sort of communes for digital nomads with pop design, Casper mattresses, Nest thermostats, and other covetable accoutrements of the startup set. Critics have called them dorms for adults, while more evangelical residents praise them for the instant community they create.

When I was growing up, I couldnt wait to get a car! Schrager said, comparing millennials lack of interest in cars to their evolving living habitats. Now my daughters dont want a car. Relying on Uber and Lyft or car-sharing pilots from Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes was once unthinkablenow its de rigueur. Its just things are changed, he said.

Schrager kicked off the afternoon summit, a first for the lifestyle group Bloomberg Pursuits, which focused on the latest data and innovation in the fields of fashion, travel, dining, autos, wellness, real estate, the arts, and design. He urged attendees, who included CEOs from such brands as Equinox, Shinola, Harrys, and Oscar de la Renta, to think about luxury at an accessible costlike his Public Hotels, where rooms often start at $150 a night.

Click here to read complete article at Bloomberg.

Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe

 2021 Hotel News ResourceRania Youssef posed for the cameras on the red carpet at the closing ceremony of the 40th edition of the Cairo International Film Festival. The actress was smiling as she showed off her black lace dress pictured above. She had no idea that her fashion choice would lead her to become a defendant in a high-profile criminal case.

Conservative factions of Egyptian society have condemned her fashion choice. The anger has culminated in a lawsuit that has the potential of earning Youssef 5 years behind bars, according to BBC.

The first lawsuit alleging obscenity was filed by lawyer Amro Abdelsalam and the second by Samir Sabri, another lawyer known for taking celebrities to court. Sabri claimed Youssefs appearance did not meet societal values, traditions and morals and therefore undermined the reputation of the festival and the reputation of Egyptian women in particular.

The entertainer, who was blindsided by the negative response, has apologized for her alleged misstep in a statement.

I probably miscalculated when I chose to wear this dress. It was the first time that I wore it and I did not realize it would spark so much anger. I reaffirm my commitment to the values upon which we were raised in Egyptian society.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BoRPw2fAFYN

Since learning that Kareem Hunt's 19-year old victim wanted to press charges but was pushed away, we have been presented with a very different outlook on the situation. She knew the body cam footage existed and wanted the Cleveland PD to look into it, who then showed her a reluctance to re-open the case, until of course, the video surfaced on TMZ, cracking open the case.

TMZ is now reporting that the victim has not cooperated with the cops after growing tired of their resistance. Besides asking them to survey the footage, the victim wanted the Cleveland PD to retrieve the sim card Kareem Hunt had stolen from her phone before kicking her out the lobby. But apparently, she never took her charges beyond the sheriff's office. The option to file take her complaint to the city's Prosecutor's Office is always an option, in her own right and only hers.

TMZ thinks the Prosecutor's lack of participation might be holding back the case, because, in instances like this where the police are noncompliant, the PO has the right to charge a suspect, even without a "victim's testimony." With that said, the unnamed victim still has 18-months to bring her case to the Prosecutor's Office, before the motion expires.This week, the makers of the PlayStation 4 celebrated the consoles 5 year anniversary and issued a reflective new clip to outline the journey of the PS4 thus far.

You've had incredible adventures over the past 5 years, the video reads before showcasing various stats about the success of the console including stats that reveal that gamers have raced for 1.7 million hours on the Wipeout Omega Collection and have collectively defeated 18 mllion enemies in ASTRO BOT Rescue Mission.

When it first arrived in 2013, the PS4 was in direct competition with Microsofts Xbox One release, with both companies looking to issue massive updates to their PS3 and Xbox 360 models.

This anniversary coincides with new rumors surrounding the arrival of the PlayStation 5 console. New reports suggest that we could be seeing the PS5 as early as 2020 with one indicator of its pending arrival finding form in the fact that for the first time ever PlayStation is not going to E3 in 2019. Promotions for new PS4 games have slowed down as well.

This new clip, however seems to cement the idea as its more commemorative then expansionary as Sony goes on to thank users for "making PlayStation 4 the best place to play".Terry Crews has become a vocal figure in the #MeToo movement. The accomplished actor opened up about his past experience with a Hollywood agent by the name of Adam Venit who assaulted him. The assault lasted only minutes, but what he was effectively telling me while he was holding my genitals in his hand was that he held the power, that he was in control, he said about the incident.

While at the "Man Up: Unpacking Masculinity" panel at the Teen Vogue Summit, Crews addressed the issue of toxic masculinity, and spoke about the significance of accountability. "I think as men, what we need to do is to say, 'We're sorry.' Then we need to concede, and then we need to be accountable," the actor explained. "The person who molested me in 2016, I had already forgiven him. That wasn't the point. The point was like, 'Wait, wait, you're telling me you can just do it? You're telling me, wait, it's okay? You're not going to do anything?' He's like, 'No, I said I was sorry.' I said, 'But you're not going to correct this? I'm giving you guys millions of dollars and you're going to sit here and say, 'Well, Terry, you're less of a human being right now. Just a little bit less. Just say it.' I'm, like, 'I'm not saying that.'"

The actor went on to reveal his decision to be a part of the #MeToo movement, despite the criticisms of others. "You have to correct," he said. "You can't ignore me, I'm standing right here...Yeah, I am. And all I did, this was not waving flags, this was not shooting guns in the air, this was like, 'No, no, no, you're not going to do that.' No, he can't go back to work. No. He can't go back to work and do that. No man, woman, child  you cannot molest anybody and go back to work."

[via]The last time Non Grata came to Houston, they set a man on fire on Main Street, just outside of Notsuoh. Instead of calling the police, as you would expect people to do in such a situation, bystanders just started snapping photos.

That happens with performance art.

With Non Grata returning to Notsouh on Wednesday, you have to wonder, what will happen this time?

We dont know, its not that day yet, the art collective said via email.  Non Grata is a group, we work spontaneously, we go into a space and work into that time/space container. We do not have planned actions. We are living in the moment. We are generating new ideas in an experimental space, getting close to people, asking uncomfortable questions, from them, from all society.

Describing exactly what Non Grata is can be a difficult task. In the simplest terms and most convenient definitions, it is a performance art group from Estonia. Founded by Al Paldrok, aka Anonymous Boh, in 1998, it has become an underground legend whose exploits are whispered about in art circles all over the world.

Non Gratas gatherings/happenings incorporate bizarre, high-energy activities. Its common for people to be willingly branded with hot irons. Cars are destroyed. Often, the specific actions that take place dance around the line of legality or stumble all the way over it. Videos of Non Grata are difficult to find, but what you see in them is pure energy being channeled ritualistically through an audience.

Non Grata When: 9 p.m. Wednesday Where: Notsuoh, 314 Main Details: $7; notsuoh.com See More Collapse

Were representing a mini-society of the present moment with different symbols and personifications, Non Grata says in that email. All these characters: the cheese grater, the holy mother, the punk military warrior, the plastic dolls, the winged man. They are very direct and obvious. People, whatever backgrounds they are, can relate to them in the same way. We are all in a human grinder, just like everyone else. Some people think they can avoid it, but it has sucking power like a vacuum cleaner.

Non Grata follows political crises in their pursuit of art. The members have assembled at the Standing Rock Reservation for protests there in the Dakotas, and more recently in the ashes of the devastating California wildfires. Theyve just come from the Tijuana area at the U.S.-Mexico border, where theyve spent time observing the ongoing caravan of refugees and migrants.

Some say its wrong that these refugees arrive at the U.S. border, another side says its wrong that they shoot them with tear gas, Non Grata says. Theyre all bad solutions, but all these people are living in their bubbles. Those in the military, theyre brainwashed like in that Kubrick movie Full Metal Jacket. But these people just ended up in these situations, without any real choice.

We cant tell you what youre going to get into if you attend Wednesdays performance. Again, the group members dont know what will happen, themselves, though its reasonable to suspect something will be set ablaze  whether physically or metaphorically.

Houston will give us the energy and ideas on how to use and release it along with the audience, Non Grata says. Often, we dont really give them a choice, some people might resist in taking part, but we say, We need you for this  . Will you take part? You ask them, and most of the time they do it because they are already there and its an unwritten contract that they sign in their minds that anything can happen. And they need to do it to receive this experience. And thats what its all about: generating shifts in peoples minds and bodies, and shifting all our energies toward building something greater then ourselves.

Jef Rouner is a writer in Houston.The Houston Film Critics Society's 12th annual Movie Awards ceremony takes place at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston Jan. 3.

The event, free and open to the public, will be held in the museum' s Brown Auditorium starting at 7 p.m.

"The annual Houston Film Critics Awards is our celebration of not just the best in film worldwide, but the exemplary contributions made by local Texans to film as well," said HFCS president Joshua Starnes in a release. "There's no better way for us to do that than with a public event for the entire community to celebrate the magic of film."

The program includes clips from nominated movies and a nod to the local scene with an award for festival presenter and filmmaker Damir Catic who will be honored for his contributions to Houston film. The nominees for the best song category will be performed by local pianist Hank Taylor.

While most of the categories seek to honor the best in the field, there's one notable standout: Best Worst Film. This honor will be presented by self-described "B-movie queen" Dona Speir.

A silent auction with movie collectibles takes place at Hotel ZaZa after the event.

Though admission is free, tickets are required. Beginning Tuesday, they can be obtained through the Museum of Fine Arts Houston web site here.

The museum is located at 1001 Bissonet Street.The last feature film director Alfonso Cuaron made was Gravity, a spectacle of light and sound starring Sandra Bullock and George Clooney as astronauts stranded in the wide expanse of space. Five years later, he returns with that movies polar opposite: the exquisite Roma, an intimate, black-and-white, Spanish-language visual poem starring actors unknown to an Anglophone American audience and written with the pen of memory and mood.

Based loosely on the recollections of 57-year-old Cuaron about the women who guided his young life in the upper-middle-class Mexico City neighborhood of Roma in the early 70s, the film  which opens Thursday in Houston at Landmark River Oaks before moving to Netflix on Dec. 14  is a portrait of two womens very separate lives being lived under a single roof.

On the one hand, theres Sofia (Marina de Tavira from the Netflix series Ingobernable), the mother of four whose marriage to a doctor (Fernando Grediaga), along with her upscale way of life, may be slipping through her fingers. On the other, theres Cleo (a phenomenal Yalitza Aparicio, a pre-school teacher in her debut role), one of the domestic servants in the household whose life, in many other movies, would be of little interest or import.

But quiet, shy Cleo is the star here, offering a window into a hardscrabble, working-class world that keeps the likes of well-heeled Sofia afloat. But in addition to her duties around the house  the film opens appropriately with a close-up shot of a driveway being cleaned  she has her own set of pleasures and worries. She and fellow maid Adela (Nancy Garcia) like to go the movies with their boyfriends but, in Cleos case, it turns out that her guy, a martial-arts enthusiast named Fermin (Jorge Antonio Guerrero), may not be worth her time and attention. Sofia and Cleo dont have many things in common, but dishonorable men is one of them.

However, Cuaron isnt just interested in the personal. The social unrest gripping Mexico at the time  Mexico Citys Corpus Christi massacre of 1971 resulted in police killing 25 student protesters  is not just a backdrop to Sofia and Cleos lives but also a grim intrusion.

Left unspoken, but plainly visible, are the racial implications. Sofia, her family and monied friends bear more European features and speak Spanish (and, occasionally, English) while Cleo and her friends are more indigenous or mestizo, and often speak Mixtec, illuminating another divide in Mexican society. Theres no cruelty between Sofia and Cleo  in fact, at one crucial point, Sofia is quite supportive  but there are clear lines that neither will cross.

Yet, for all of that, the slow-moving Roma is as much about atmosphere as plot. The luminous black-and-white cinematography not only informs Roma with the nostalgic feel of an unearthed memory but is a stylistic nod to Italian neorealism of the late 40s/early 50s, a street-level cinematic movement pioneered by the likes of Federico Fellini and Roberto Rossellini that captured the grit of post-World War II Italy. (Its also a sweet bit of synchronicity that the name Roma conjures up visions of Italy.)

Roma Rated R: for graphic nudity, some disturbing images and strong language Running time: 135 minutes In Spanish and Mixtec with English subtitles Five stars (out of five) See More Collapse

Roma is gorgeous to look at  one tracking shot that follows Cleo as shes running through the crowded streets to catch up to the children shes shepherding to a movie theater is one of the many visuals in the film thats absolutely breathtaking. Roma was shot on 65mm and has a sterling sound mix that can best be appreciated in a big room with a big screen. To view it on some handheld device or home computer is like being handed a crumpled Xerox of the Mona Lisa.

Cuaron has made a roster of impressive films, from Y Tu Mama Tambien to Children of Men and, of course, Gravity, for which he was the first director from Mexico to win a best-director Oscar. But Roma, though perhaps not as immediately accessible, is his masterwork, a heartfelt evocation of a time and place that celebrates the unsung and the unheard.

cary.darling@chron.comThe Torah begins with the start of existence, when God commands, Let there be light.

Thats how light comes in to push away the darkness, Rabbi Jill Levy said. And I dont think its a coincidence that God does that through words.

The leader at the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center is focusing on the power of words during the Hanukkah holiday, which she explained is all about light and illuminating the darkness.

In the darkest time of year, Levy said, the Jewish tradition calls for lighting candles in celebration of a miracle  a flame that did not extinguish against all odds.

Jewish Houstonians will celebrate Hanukkah in different ways across the city through Dec. 10. The holiday began Sunday.

There are various interpretations of the holiday story and symbolism of the menorah lights, Rabbi Adrienne Scott of Congregation Beth Israel said.

Basically, we look at the light as a story of survival, she said. Its a story of the ability for Jewish people to live freely, to celebrate having access  on a global level  to practice our faith.

Hanukkah means dedication in Hebrew, and the tale behind the eight holy nights centers on the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.

The sacred space was desecrated by the soldiers of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who ordered Jews to give up their religion and worship Greek gods instead.

Jewish warrior Judah Maccabee organized a revolt  and regained control of the temple. In order to clean and rebuild the sanctuary, he lit a candelabrum to illuminate the work but only had enough oil to burn for one day.

Thats when the miracle comes in, Scott said.

According to the Talmud, the flames continued for eight nights instead of one.

This story and lesson are about rising above those who wish to persecute us, Scott said.

Jews are asked to light a hanukkiyah, a special eight-candle menorah for Hanukkah, and place it in a window to send out a message to the outside world, she said.

Youre advertising the miracle, Scott said. Were saying, Were still alive and well.

Rabbi Brian Strauss of Congregation Beth Yeshurun is drawn to the symbolism of putting menorahs in a visible place. Youre supposed to not only publicize the miracle, but also youre telling the world, dont lose hope, he said.

Hanukkah is a holiday that reminds Jews to celebrate religious freedom, Strauss added.

We have to continue to fight so that all people have that right, he said. As Jews, weve known so many dark and difficult times, but we never lose our faith and our hope that good will overcome evil, that people will find the religious freedom they deserve.

Since the shooting in late October that left 11 people dead at Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Strauss has seen an uptick in attendance.

People are showing that they arent afraid, he said. We cant be afraid of the dark forces of racism, prejudice and anti-Semitism.

Rabbi Gideon Estes of Congregation Or Ami is also drawn to the message of the public display of the menorahs.

We show this light. We dont hide it but display it, he said. In a time of attacks, your initial reaction is to cower, but our job is to say, No, were here. Were a beautiful mosaic of humanity. Were going to shine in our differences.

Scott said that in the wake of the shooting, the holiday reminds Jews across the nation of the need to unite and lean on each other for support  and also to remain proud of their heritage and traditions.

It isnt the first time weve stumbled, she said. Were taught that when we have to stumble, we have to stand again. The menorah is a powerful reminder of that.

Scott added Jewish people are called to light the menorah and celebrate Hanukkah together  even in difficult times.

Our calendar continues, she said. Dont let the light go out. We have to stand in solidarity, and we have to observe this sacred time. We owe it to all those who came before us.

Estes said that Hanukkah is also a rededication to the faith. Were able to rededicate ourselves to the fact that were proud to live our lives as Jews, he said. The light in the dark is a beacon against hate, against evil.

Congregation Ori Ami hosts Menorah Madness on the eighth night of Hanukkah each year. Estes said tables are full of completely lit hanukkiyahs from Houstons Jewish community.

Theyre all fully ablaze, and its beautiful to see, to allow that light to shine in, he said. Its a light of love and family, shining out to the world.

This year, the candles will remind Estes of those illuminated for the post Pittsburgh vigil. Its a light of hope and solidarity against ignorance and murder, he said. Ill be thinking of all those candles and how were adding more light to the world.

Levy explained that Jews celebrate Hanukkah by lighting one candle the first night  and the number increases each evening  in celebration of the eight nights the oil burned.

You dont want to decrease the light you bring into the world, she said. You only want it to be brighter and stronger. Were always increasing the light. You can only increase holiness.

This Hanukkah, Levy is asking members of the Jewish Community Center to consider their speech  and whether it adds to the good in the world or has a more shadowy effect.

Words are very powerful, she said. They can bring light into someones life or darkness. Lets think more deeply about how we talk to each other.

Levy will be posting this message in a blog on the Jewish Community Centers website  and the teaching will also be part of lessons taught there during the holidays.

Every night during Hanukkah, the center will host a candle lighting ceremony. The center will host Jewish Culturefest  1-6 p.m. Friday at Levy Park, 3801 Eastside with music, art, food and lighting of the Hanukkah candles.

Rabbi Strauss asks his congregation to continue to perform more deeds of loving kindness this Hanukkah.

Each night of Hanukkah, Estes sends an inspirational email to his congregants. Lets share our inner light, he said. We have gifts to share with the world. Let that light shine. Fill the world with greater goodness.

Lindsay Peyton is a writer in Houston.Last week's admission by Michael Cohen that he lied to Congress about a Trump Organization real estate project in Moscow suggests the Russian government may have damaging information about President Donald Trump, a top Democrat said Sunday.

Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., the incoming chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, said in an appearance on NBC' News' "Meet the Press" that Thursday's guilty plea by Cohen, Trump's former personal attorney, raises the question of whether Russia continues to have leverage over Trump.

"Does the Kremlin have a hold on him over other things?" Nadler said. "There certainly was leverage during the campaign period and until recently because they knew he was lying, they knew he had major business dealings or that Cohen on his behalf had major business dealings."

Nadler also said lawmakers "must do whatever we can" to protect special counsel Robert Mueller III's Russia investigation from interference by Trump.

"We have a president who lies incessantly to the American people about big matters and small matters. ... The time when he can get away with lying to the American people all the time and evading accountability is coming to an end," Nadler said.

Sen. Benjamin Cardin, D-Md., also defended the Mueller probe on "Fox News Sunday." Trump has repeatedly decried the investigation as a "witch hunt."

"I think that America, which stands for the rule of law, the leading democratic country in the world, our president needs to respect the independence of this investigation," Cardin said.

Cohen last week pleaded guilty to lying to Congress about a Moscow real estate project that Trump and his company pursued at the same time that he was securing the GOP nomination in 2016. Cohen told prosecutors that he had lied to distance Trump from the project during the hotly contested presidential race.

Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., said Sunday that "most Republicans who were about to nominate Donald Trump in the summer of '16 would probably have thought it was a relevant fact" that Trump was still trying to do business with Russia at the time.

He added, in the wake of Cohen's guilty plea, it has become clear that "most of these characters who are around Donald Trump, none of them have exactly a sterling record of telling the truth."

"What I find particularly interesting with the revelation of Cohen's plea is that he's saying he lied to protect then-candidate Trump's stories that he had nothing to do with Russia," Warner said on CNN's "State of the Union." "So, the president seemed to already be changing his story a little bit and say, 'Well, it was all legal.' "

Some Republicans contended Sunday that it was of little consequence that Trump was doing business in Russia during the campaign.

"The president is an international businessman; I'm not surprised he was doing international business," Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., said on "Meet the Press." "Cohen is in trouble for lying to Congress. We have a Mueller investigation going on. We need to come to completion on that."

Asked whether it was fair that voters had not been given a complete picture of Trump's involvement with Russia in 2016, Barrasso said many factors were involved in the campaign, not just Trump's business dealings.

"There were so many things involved in the 2016 campaign, it's hard to point to what one thing influenced voters," the senator said. "They didn't want Hillary Clinton; they wanted a new opportunity."

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Video: Two stunning developments in the special counsel's investigation shed light on investigators' focus on President Trump as a main subject of interest.(Jenny Starrs/The Washington Post)

Embed code:Sen. Kamala D. Harris, D-Calif., said Saturday that she plans to make the "very serious" decision about a potential 2020 presidential bid in the coming weeks.

"Over the holiday, I will make that decision with my family," Harris said in an interview with MSNBC's Mika Brzezinski at the Know Your Value conference in San Francisco.

Harris added that if she does decide to run against President Donald Trump, she is prepared for things to get "ugly," given that her candidacy would be a boundary-breaking one.

"When you break things, it is painful," she said. "And you get cut. And you bleed."

Harris is one of dozens of Democrats eyeing bids for the White House in 2020. Others include Sens. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota and Cory Booker of New Jersey, former Vice President Joe Biden and billionaire philanthropist Tom Steyer.

A former prosecutor and state attorney general who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, Harris has earned a reputation as one of the Democratic Party's most skilled interrogators. Yet Democrats' midterm losses have imperiled her committee seat, with liberal groups warning of a potential backlash if Harris, the panel's only African-American woman, is removed.

In a recent interview with The Washington Post's Dan Balz, Harris said she sees the phrase "identity politics" as one designed to marginalize the very real concerns of minority communities. Race, she said, is an unavoidable part of the country's political debate in the Trump era.

"(I)sn't that an interesting thing that one of our longest adversaries, the Russian government, figured out America's Achilles' heel?" she said, referring to Russian interference in the 2016 campaign. "One of the biggest ones is race, and they attacked us based on that. And we're not going to talk about it?"It looked as though a couple of police officers went dumpster diving for ornaments.

Hanging from the Christmas tree inside a Minneapolis Police Department precinct were half-crushed cans of Steel Reserve malt liquor and crumpled bags of Takis chips and Funyuns. There was a cup from the fried-chicken joint Popeyes and two packs of Newport cigarettes - pieces of actual garbage accented by a single strip of yellow crime-scene tape that didn't quite cut it as tinsel.

If the police thought the scene was a joke, nobody was laughing.

"These pieces of trash were deliberately chosen to represent how certain officers feel about the community they serve: that Black people are a stereotype to be mocked and the lives of those they serve may as well be reduced to trash in the gutter," said City Councilman Phillipe Cunningham in a Facebook post. He represents constituents in the majority-black Near North neighborhood where the MPD's Precinct 4 is located.

The two Minneapolis police officers who created the display were placed on leave Friday in response to fierce backlash from both the African-American community and public officials, including Mayor Jacob Frey who, in a statement, described the tree as "racist, despicable, and well beneath the standards of any person who serves the city of Minneapolis."

The tree, beyond being seen as a "racist dog-whistle," as longtime civil rights activist Roy Edwards described it, also rekindled simmering distrust between police and Minneapolis' black community.

Three years ago, community organizers led an 18-day occupation outside the fourth precinct station to protest the fatal shooting of Jamar Clark, a 24-year-old black man. Since then, activists said at a press conference Friday, they had hoped police would be doing everything possible to improve their relationship with the Near North Minneapolis community, rather than seeming to go out of their way to strain it.

"I just could not believe that after everything we've been through to try to change the narrative about the African-American community, that our police officers still held that same mindset," Black Lives Matter Twin Cities activist Chauntyll Allen said at the news conference. "They have no respect for the lives that have been lost."

Cunningham and Minneapolis Board of Education member KerryJo Felder were among the first public officials to sound off about the tree after hearing complaints and seeing photos flood social media. Cunningham said Friday on Facebook that he learned from speaking with an MPD inspector that every year an officer is assigned tree-decorating duties. This year, Cunningham said, two officers decided to hang the inappropriate ornaments as a "prank."

Screenshot via North by Northside TWitter

"They hurt EVERY gain made in improving community-police relations," Cunningham wrote on Facebook. "On a personal level, despite being a [Council Member], I am still a Black man myself and these outrageous reminders only further my own feeling [of being] generally unsafe around police officers."

At first, Frey was so incensed that he vowed the officers responsible would be fired by the end of the day.

Termination, he wrote, "is necessary - both to discipline the officer and to send a clear message: [Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo] and I will not tolerate conduct that departs from our values." But within hours, Frey walked back the statement after realizing "there is a legally required process that must be followed" before an officer can be discharged, his spokesman, Mychal Vlatkovich, told the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

Arradondo, describing the Christmas tree as a "racially insensitive display," said in a statement that he was "ashamed and appalled" by the behavior of the two officers involved. He said a full investigation had been launched.

Edwards, the civil-rights activist who has lived in Minneapolis since the 1940s, told The Washington Post that what the community needs to see is a black officer in charge of Precinct 4. Racial insensitivity training, he said, will only do so much. And for those who questioned what was so racially insensitive about the bag of Takis and the fried-chicken fast-food cup, Edwards said those who lived in the neighborhood didn't need to ask.

"These policemen are well familiar with what racism is," he said. "They knew exactly what they were doing when they 'decorated' the tree."Texans will be able to pay their respects Thursday to President George H.W. Bush, when, after three days of ceremonies, his body will be carried by train from Spring to College Station to be buried.

The route, as outlined by Union Pacific Railroad, will pass through Hufsmith, Pinehurst, Magnolia, Todd Mission, Stoneham, Navasota, Millican and Wellborn.

Following a funeral service earlier that morning at St. Martin's Episcopal Church, the train is scheduled to depart at 1 p.m. from the Union Pacific Railroad Westfield Auto Facility, which will be closed to the public.

SERVICES SET: Official Bush funeral schedule released for week

It will take an estimated two hours and 25 minutes for the train to reach College Station, across from Kyle Field. The locomotive, which can travel up to 70 mph, will move slower than usual track speed and will not make any stops along the way.

The procession falls in line with a long history of presidential funeral trains that transported the bodies of storied men to their places of burial, sometimes through multiple states, according to Union Pacific. They include Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses Grant, Franklin Roosevelt and Dwight Eisenhower.

STATESMAN REMEMBERED: George H.W. Bush spent a lifetime of public service

Bush's body will be transported by Locomotive 4141, painted with sleek lines in blue, gray and white, to evoke Air Force One and, as the railroad puts it, the "forward motion representing progress."

Here are some of the intersections with a good view of Bush 41's procession from Spring to College Station:

 Old Town Spring

 I-45 near Spring Stuebner

 Holzwarth near Grand Parkway

 Mossy Oaks near Sumac

 Rothwood near Grand Parkway

 Gosling near Hassler

 Northcrest near Root Rd

 Hildebrandt near Root Rd

 Kuykendahl near Hufsmith Kuykendahl

 Stuebner Airline near Hufsmith Kuykendahl

 FM 2978 near E. Hufsmith

 Stanolind near Hufsmith Kohrville

 Hwy 249 at W. Rollingwood

 Hwy 249 at FM 149

 FM 1774 at Lone Star

 FM 1774 at FM 1488

Emily Foxhall covers all things Texas for the Houston Chronicle. Follower her on Twitter or email her at Emily.Foxhall@chron.com.After a quiet, pomp-filled ceremony this morning at Ellington Airport, former President George H. W. Bush's remains arrived at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland aboard "Special Mission 41."

The ceremony at Ellington marked the beginning of a four-day mourning period that will stretch from Houston to Washington D.C. and back to Texas.

In Houston, the city which Bush called home and where he returned after his years in the White House, events began Monday morning with a departure ceremony at the Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home on Bering.

Now Playing: A military Honor Guard prepares to move the casket of former President George H.W. Bush into Special Air Mission 41 at Ellington Field on Monday Dec. 3, 2018. Video: Samantha Ketterer, Houston Chronicle

Around 9 a.m., neighbors and mourners began to line up along Bering to pay their respects to the former president. Less than an hour later, a hearse carrying Bush's remains -- escorted by a slew of Houston police motorcycle officers -- led a small convoy of mourners and dignitaries from the funeral home in Tanglewood to Ellington Airport, on the city's southeast side.

Authorities shut down the southbound portion of the West Loop to allow the convoy to travel unimpeded on the 30-mile journey to Ellington. Along the way, numerous northbound motorists could be seen stopping to photograph the convoy as it passed.

At approximately 10:40 a.m., the convoy arrived at the airport, where it was greeted by hundreds of family members, friends and local dignitaries as well as a military honor guard.

A few hundred people lined the streets near the main entrance to Ellington Airport to bid a farewell to the president.

For some, it was a chance to be part of history, while others had personal memories.

Steve Blevins, a 71-year-old retired employee of Kellogg Brown and Root, had met the president while jogging at Memorial Park. As he and his wife, Karen, waited at the corner of Dixie Farm Road for a glimpse of the motorcade, he recalled the former president's kindness and approachability.

"He was kind enough to actually talk to us, so that and all the wonderful things he did, we're here to honor his service," Blevins said.

Josh and Nicole Crippen held onto a large Texas flag, referencing Bush's adopted home state.

"He was our president, he was a standup guy, and he was a Texan," Josh Crippen said.

Nicole Crippen, 33, is a Clear Lake native and grew up aware that most presidents pass through Ellington at some point. She hasn't seen them all, but wanted to be here for Bush.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime thing," she said.

Roseann Garcia Peters stood in the crowd as well. She said her late father, Raul Garcia, was one of the first Latino Republicans in Houston's East end community in the 1960s and later campaigned for Bush. She said her father also attended Bush's presidential inauguration.

When her father became ill in 2002, Bush sent him a letter -- and another to her family when he died.

"I'm here today to honor a kind and loving person who was very kind to my family," she said.

On the tarmac, a military band played four Ruffles and Flourishes and Hail to the Chief, and service members fired a 21-gun salute before Bush's remains were loaded onto the plane. Family and friends stood with hands over hearts as flags fluttered in the wind.

Then, pallbearers moved the casket to the plane as the band played "Eternal Father, Strong to Save," and loaded it into a trailer embellished with the presidential seal and lifted up to the plane.

The president's final flight on Air Force One has been designated "Special Mission 41," according to McGrath.

Traditionally, the presidential Boeing 747-200Bs are only designated Air Force One when carrying a sitting president. Since President Donald J. Trump will not be traveling on the aircraft as it ferries Bush's remains to and from Washington D.C., the plane has been re-designated to honor Bush this week.

READ MORE: George H. W. Bush's life and legacy

Former President George W. Bush and his wife, Laura Bush, boarded the plane first, at approximately 10:50 a.m. Also with them was Sully H.W. Bush, the late president's yellow Labrador service dog.

The two-year-old lab became the late president's service dog just a few months after the death of former first lady Barbara Bush.

The dog will return to service helping other veterans at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, former President George W. Bush wrote Sunday, in an Instagram post capturing the dog lying in front of Bush's casket.

Shortly after 11 a.m., Special Mission 41 took off from Ellington, under a clear blue sky, as hundreds looked on.

The late president's remains were flown to Joint Base Andrews, in Maryland. After arriving in the DC area, Bush's remains will be taken to the U.S. Capitol to lie in state in the rotunda with a guard of honor in attendance. On Wednesday morning, there will be a funeral at the Washington National Cathedral.

RELATED: George H.W. Bush praised in wake of his death from leaders around the world

In a post on Twitter, McGrath wrote that Bush -- famous for his love of whimsical and boldly colored socks -- will be carried to his final rest wearing a pair that pays tribute to his military service, with several jets flying in formation.



After the the Wednesday funeral, Bush's body will be flown back to Houston to lie in repose at St. Martin's Episcopal Church before a service there at 10 a.m. Thursday.

Following the service, Bush's remains will be taken by motorcade to the Union Pacific Railroad Westfield Auto Facility in Spring then taken by train to the George Bush Presidential Library & Museum in College Station, where he will be interred alongside his wife, Barbara Bush, and their daughter Robin.

Olivia Tallet, Robert Downen, and Keri Blakinger contributed.

For more information, visit Bush's official funeral site.

St. John Barned-Smith covers public safety and major breaking news for the Houston Chronicle. Follow him on Twitter and Facebook. Send tips to st.john.smith@chron.com.People peppered the pews at St. Martins Episcopal Church in Houston shortly before 8 a.m. Sunday for the first service of the day - often a little sparser, by parishioners with hair a little grayer than some of the later services throughout the day.

This is the old guard. A group of Houstonians who, upon the passing of President George H. W. Bush this Friday, have lost a prominent member.

Im going to pause before I begin, Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr., said at the top of the hour. Some folks would think - knowing who we are, and where we are - this Sunday, on the death of our 41st president, there would be some attention for him in our worship. But those of us who know and love the Bush family also know and love that it is not something he would want us to so. He would want us to worship on the Sunday that is given to the first Sunday of Advent.

STATESMAN REMEMBERED: A life-long public servant

With that, Levenson led his congregation through a moment of silence, for a remarkable life.

The congregation knows as well as the country and the world, that when Bush died on Friday, at the age of 94, he left a legacy of public service that spanned more than a half-century. That will, of course, all be noted when St. Martins Episcopal Church hosts the late presidents funeral on Thursday.

But the members at St. Martins, which has grown to be the largest Episcopalian church in the nation during the decades in which Bush and his late wife Barbara, who died this April, have faithfully attended, know even more than that. And while Bushs name was never mentioned in the sermon or prayers that followed, it was there between the lines, for many. Especially in the sermon, which Levenson titled Time Well Spent.

Thats a very good summary in a few words: Time well spent, said Tom Tellepsen, a parishioner whose family has known the Bushes for decades. He made everyone feel very special. And the way he did that is he allowed pictures to be taken with you, whether it was individuals or businesses. And all over Houston, you go to barbershops, auto shops, barbecues, there are pictures of him there, with the owner or whoever. He was very generous about that. And these little notes, too.

When Tellepsens father, Howard died nearly 20 years ago, Bush wrote a letter to Howards widow, June. In it, Bush wrote that he felt Howard, a little more than a decade his senior, had been a hero to him. Tellepsens mother has since passed, and now he has the letter.

He was very humble, Tellepsen said after Sundays early service. Just a real good man.

FULL COVERAGE: Get the latest details about George H.W. Bush

Tellepsen knows he isnt the only Houstonian with a hand-written note of endearment from the former president. Bush even sent them to Levensons parents, shortly before the reverend was named the churchs senior pastor. And Tellepsen suspects these handwritten treasures are abundant around the city.

Abundance, Levenson said during his sermon. This is a season of abundance in many ways.

The weeks-long run-up to Christmas can be abundant with parties and traditions; smells and bells, as Levenson called them. But it can also be a season for burnout, he said. One in which we people feel as though they cant possibly fulfill every obligation on their calendar.

There is, he told his parishioners, a remedy for this.

Of all the things that run out - time, energy, money, patience, and even life - love is the one thing that outlasts every other. Once it is given, it keeps going and going and going, he said. If theres one lesson for us  its to abound in love.

Thats a message Levenson spoke about this April, when he delivered the homily at the funeral for first lady Barbara Bush, who was married to the president for 73 years. He noted then that Barbara Bush counted serving, laughing and loving as key aspects of a full life.

It was the same for her widower, who remained on Earth for only 221 days without her, and who, less than an hour before he passed whispered his last words to his son, President George W. Bush: I love you, too.

Love, when it is poured, never runs out, Levenson reminded his congregation Sunday morning. It never runs out.

It was a quiet and peaceful service, said parishioner Lisa Hines, as she left the campus shortly after 9 a.m.

OFFICIAL SCHEDULE: When and where the former president will be celebrated

Former President Bush would rather us continue in the traditions of the church, on the first Sunday of Advent, than to make it special about him. Thats how he was, she said.

There will, of course be time for a special focus on the president at his church, which will host a funeral service Thursday morning. As with Barbaras service, Levenson is expected to deliver the homily in front of world leaders and a smattering of folks who knew the former president well.

It will be an invitation-only service, and please dont have your feelings hurt if you were not invited, Levenson told his parishioners in a brief end note to his service Sunday morning. Everybody in the world feels as though they were best friends with the Bushes, because of the way they lived their lives.

maggie.gordon@chron.com;

twitter.com/MagEGordonAUSTIN  Its been about a year since the first legally grown marijuana plants were harvested in Texas for their medicinal oils. But since then, fewer than 600 patients have seen any benefit out of the estimated 150,000 who suffer uncontrollable epileptic seizures that the medicine is meant to help.

Roughly 45 doctors, mostly concentrated in urban areas, have signed up to prescribe the cannabidiol. Just three companies in Central Texas have been licensed to distribute the drug. One doesnt seem to have opened its doors, and another reports losing money with such a small client base.

The way to assure the Compassionate Use Program has a future is by expanding access to more patients, said Morris Denton, CEO of Compassionate Cultivation in the Austin area. The worst thing that can happen is nothing gets done, because then we set the program back.

Texas therapeutic marijuana program is among the strictest in the nation, giving only patients with intractable epilepsy access to cannabidiol thats low in THC, the element that gives pot users a high.

Recent legislative efforts to expand the program failed. But some state lawmakers are trying again in 2019 with proposals to roll back restrictions on THC and give more patients access, including those with cancer, post-traumatic stress disorder and other serious medical conditions.

This is not a liberal or conservative issue, this is a medical issue, said Sen. Jose Menendez, D-San Antonio, who has filed a bill to expand the program. Why do we as a Legislature get to think we know better than the doctors? Why are we limiting this and keeping people that have glaucoma, MS, cancer, from having access?

While the Texas House has been open to letting more patients use cannabidiol and marijuana for medicinal purposes, the state Senate and Gov. Greg Abbott have been resistant to such changes. Abbott has cited abuses in other states as cause for concern.

I am still not convinced yet, Abbott said in an October gubernatorial debate, a position that hasnt changed, a spokesman said last week.

Marijuana is illegal under federal law and considered a Schedule I drug, alongside heroin and ecstasy. Thirty-three states, however, allow use of the drug for medicinal purposes, according the National Conference of State Legislatures. And 13, including Texas, let some patients use cannabidiol that is low in THC.

The Texas Compassionate Use Act became law in 2015, but the rollout has been slow and rocky.

Despite getting more than 40 applications, the Texas Department of Public Safety licensed just three companies last year to distribute cannabidiol, the minimum number allowed by the law.

Month supply of medicine costs $380

Patients need sign-off from two doctors to use the marijuana-derived oil. But so far, fewer than 50 certified epileptologists and neurologists have registered to participate. None is in the Rio Grande Valley or West Texas, records show, meaning patients there must travel far to see a qualified physician.

Related: Map of doctors registered to prescribe cannabidiol

Some doctors are reluctant to enroll because Texas law requires they prescribe the drug instead of recommending it, a phrase other states use to sidestep federal marijuana prohibitions, advocates said. So far, 574 patients have been issued prescriptions, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety, which oversees the program.

As we move forward, changing that language, Im sure we are going to see the number of physicians grow exponentially and very quickly, said Heather Fazio, with the Texas Marijuana Policy Project.

Then theres the issue of getting the medicine. Patients must pay out-of-pocket for cannabidiol because health insurance wont cover it. Denton said the average patient at Compassionate Cultivation uses 30 milliliters a month, at a cost of roughly $380.

Compassionate Cultivation and Knox Medical in Schulenburg, midway between Houston and San Antonio on Interstate 10, are taking patient orders. The third company licensed to distribute cannabidiol, Surterra Texas, doesnt appear to have started making sales. A branch of Surterra Wellness, which this month announced chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. would take over as CEO, didnt respond to requests for comment.

Compassionate Cultivation has so far served roughly 450 patients, ranging in age from 6 months to over 60 years old, Denton said. Almost 95 percent of orders are for delivery, a costly prospect since Texas law requires the medicine be driven to customers by an employee. A delivery to a patients house in El Paso is a 16-hour round trip.

New medicinal cannabis bills face steep odds

Texas law enforcement groups have opposed loosening the restrictions on medical marijuana. And although a bill in 2017 to expand the Compassionate Use Program to more patients gained backing from nearly 80 state representatives  more than half the 150 member House  it never made it to the floor for a vote.

A number of marijuana-related policies are on the docket for the upcoming legislative session, which begins in January. But its not clear which might emerge as top priorities.

Recently, Abbott announced hes open to decriminalizing possession of small amounts of pot, a policy some Texas cities and counties have already adopted.

Menendezs bill would expand the Compassionate Use Program to include some 20 other conditions, including Crohns disease, post-traumatic stress disorder and autism. It would also allow higher levels of THC.

Though the House has been open to loosening marijuana restrictions, the Republican expected to be speaker has opposed such measures. Rep. Dennis Bonnen, R-Angleton, was one of about three dozen members who voted against the Compassionate Use Act in 2015.

Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who presides over the 31-member state Senate, didnt respond to a request for comment.

amorris@express-news.netWhilst workplaces have always considered the safety of their employees as a point of high concern, its only in the recent years that employers began to see how mental agility impacts upon performance. Historically, when employers discuss health and safety, theyre talking in terms of workplace accidents and physical ailments. This shifted somewhat in the last decade, when HR departments began considering chronic injuries as an overall extension of physical safety at work.

From there, the most obvious continuation is to include mental injury in the context of both health and its relationship with physical safety. In fact, by doing so, employers gain a much more comprehensive understanding of the impact of work on their workers.

According to Workplace Mental Health Consultant, Danielle Stewart, psychologically safe workplace is one where every reasonable effort is made to protect the mental health of workers.

And this commitment to safeguarding employee mental health shouldnt stem purely from ethical responsibility. Legally speaking, employers have a duty of care for their workers  one which resides within the legislation for Health and Safety practitioners to provide a physically safe system of work. Whilst it may be defined a safe place to work, employers are continually choosing to interpret this as being inclusive of protecting employee mental wellbeing as well.

The core of psychological health and safety is simple, continued Stewart.After quitting her job, Savage took her complaint to the Commissioner for Equal Opportunity. The case was treated as a racial discrimination case and the investigation lasted 18 months.

Savage told the tribunal that she wasnt claiming to be treated unfairly because of heritage, but instead that the nickname was disrespectful.

The complaint was heard before the South Australian Employment Tribunal and was dismissed as a 'perceived lack of respect.

The company argued that the New Zealand Government openly endorsed the term Kiwi and that it was considered a term of endearment and as a means of identifying as a New Zealander.

Judge Leonie Farrell found that calling a New Zealander a Kiwi was not of itself offensive.



iciHaiti - VIEF2018 : The former President Michel Martelly in Hanoi





The former President of Haiti Michel Martelly accompanied by his wife Sophia, is currently in Hanoi (Vietnam) to participate this week in the important Economic Forum "VIEF2018" (Vietnam Economic Forum).



Remember that the ViEF2018 is a forum that aims to discuss the main problems and strategy on the Vietnamese macroeconomy. At the same time, the forum conducts constructive dialogues on public and private policies between the private sector, the Government and stakeholders. It brings together more than 1,500 delegates, 30 speakers, 500 CEOs, CIOs and more than 300 experts and a hundred media.



Sunday, Michel Martelly exchange with Haitian students who are studying in Vietnam.



IH/ iciHaiti

















Asean members agree to intensify integration of biodiversity conservation in development

December 03,2018 | Source: BusinessMirror

The heads of the 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) member-states agreed to accelerate, intensify and enhance new and continuing efforts, and partnerships in integrating biodiversity conservation in key development areas.



The Asean leaders made their commitment through a Joint Asean Statement submitted to the ongoing UN Conference on Biodiversity in Egypt.



According to the statement, Aseans rich terrestrial and marine biodiversity, and its resources and ecosystem functions and services are challenged by climate change, rapid urbanization, and continuing habitat loss from agricultural expansion, industrial activities and wildlife trafficking.



They agreed to pursue a comprehensive agenda for transformational change to address the drivers of biodiversity loss; accelerate actions to mainstream biodiversity; and enhance regional cooperation and partnerships to support national efforts.



The joint statement, which was adopted in Singapore on November 13, reiterated Aseans commitment in implementing and achieving the Convention on Biological Diversitys (CBD) Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020 and its Aichi Biodiversity Targets, particularly Target 11 on increasing well-conserved and connected terrestrial and marine protected areas; and the United Nationss 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its goals, particularly on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 14 and 15 on protecting the oceans and the environment.



The statement also urged all parties to the CBD to support the Asean in addressing plastic pollution, and for developed country parties and organizations to provide adequate financial and technical resources to complement national efforts of developing countries.



The Asean nations, likewise, recognized the role of the Asean Centre for Biodiversity in facilitating, coordinating and highlighting the collective efforts of the regional groups members in biodiversity conservation.

 2018 BusinessMirror

Theme(s): Others.Rwandan women paddle into the male world of fishing

by Shannon Sims

November 30,2018 | Source: NYT

In the evening, the green leaves of the verdant hills of Lake Kivu turned black against the orange sky, and a calm settled across the water. And then, out of the silence, came a call: Here we go! May God watch over us! Its a refrain that is a tradition here on Lake Kivu, where for generations men have cast out at sunset on small wooden boats to fish through the night. But that night, it was chanted by women.



Zawadi Karikumutima, 32, readied her boat for a night on the water. She was not alone. Several other women loaded wooden rafts with supplies, while their children watched them from the muddy banks, and prepared themselves for the long night ahead.



I am very tired when I come back, said Ms. Karikumutima as she pushed the boat around in the muddy shore. Sometimes she comes back with enough fish to sell to support her family for weeks at a time. But sometimes I return with pretty much nothing, she said.



Some fishermen and women on Lake Kivu cast their nets at sunset and return before dawn to collect their trappings. But that method can be risky: the nets can be tampered with, or the catch scooped up by interlopers in the midnight hours while everyone else is asleep. So instead, many of the fisherwomen choose to spend their nights on the water.

But nights on the lake can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, for any number of reasons  wind and pirates, among others. Last year, as a single mother, Ms. Karikumutima had no choice but to bring her infant baby out on the wooden boat with her at night, lying the baby down on a blanket in the hull of the canoe while she paddled from one net to another in the cold and the rain. The intense physical work and danger that comes with fishing on Lake Kivu, along with reinforcement from traditional gender roles, kept women from fishing for generations, tending to backyard farms instead. But in post-genocide Rwanda, that seems to be changing.



Today, women form an essential part of the national market for Lake Kivu fish. Besides fishing on the lake at night, women also gather along the shores in the early morning to buy the fish the fisherwomen deliver. They then haul those fish home to their small villages, or sell the fish to cooperatives. At the cooperatives, other women manage drying stations, where the fish are turned into a more compact, shriveled-up product thats easier to transport. Women transport the fish across the country, in buckets and sacks, and they also sell the fish in urban markets all around the country, to landlocked Rwandans. The fish economy has created opportunities for women to form collectives and income.

 2018 The New York Times Company

Theme(s): Communities and Organisations.A year after Ockhi, how coastal communities in Kerala are rebuilding their lives

December 02,2018 | Source: The Hindu

A year after Cyclone Ockhi slammed Kerala, devastating large parts of the State, many of the survivors and families of the dead and missing fishermen are yet to come to terms with the magnitude of the tragedy. The storm also raised questions about the State's preparedness to deal with disasters.



With 143 fishermen reported dead or missing, the coastal communities have been the worst affected. Many of the fishermen who survived the storm are afraid of heading back to sea, leaving their families without a means of livelihood. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the cyclone-hit areas and promised all help to the State to tide over the crisis. The State had requested the Centre to declare the calamity as a national disaster and announce a special package for rehabilitation of the victims.



But one year later, the government accuses the Centre of turning a blind eye to the State's plea for a special package for the rehabilitation of the Ockhi victims. The Opposition, however, blames the government of going back on its commitment to help the victims.

 2018, The Hindu

Theme(s): Communities and Organisations.Iraqi Assyrian Family Ordered to Leave Refugee Camp But Have Nowhere to Go

The last Christian family remaining in an IDP camp north of Erbil have turned to the local government and aid organisations as they have been asked to leave the camp but have nowhere to go, Kurdish news website Rudaw reports.

Sena Behnam and her husband said they have to stay in the camp, located in the town of Ankawa in the Kurdistan Region, as their home in Mosul has been destroyed, and they cannot afford to rent.

"What happened was not in my hands. We didn't want to leave [Mosul]," Behnam told Rudaw. "They [IS] forced us to leave.

"There are very few of us left seeking somewhere. Our homes and churches have been destroyed. How can we return to Mosul?"

Thousands of Christian homes and 120 churches and Christian shrines have been "ruined" by IS in Mosul, according to Durayed Hikmat, former advisor to the governor of Mosul. Reconstruction of all of those properties will cost an estimated 15 billion Iraqi dinars ($US13 billion).

"Only 40 families returned to the city of Mosul, who later returned to the Kurdistan Region because of the hardship they faced upon their return," Hikmat said.

The camp where the Behnam family lives has provided shelter to around 1,300 families, 100 of whom are still there. But now the administration of the camp has asked all remaining families to leave, as the international community "is no longer providing support", said the mayor of Ankawa.

According to Rudaw, after the invasion of Iraq by IS, around 130,000 Christians fled to the Kurdistan Region. People, however, are still concerned about returning to their homes in certain areas because of reports of attacks by IS "remnants", Rudaw reported.

In Tel Skuf, a town north of Mosul, even the reconstruction efforts carried out by a local charity do not encourage people, the youth in particular, to resettle in the town permanently, according to Rudaw.

"I'm tired of having to leave and then having to return again and again. We all got tired and we are getting old," said Selima Loqa from Tel Skuf. "Every time we leave and then return, we buy houses over and over again. What can we do? Situations like this must end."

Recently, the destroyed St Jacob's Church in Tel Skuf has been rebuilt which, the constructors hope, may "encourage people to return".The Vanishing: The Plight of Christians in an Age of Intolerance

A defaced image of Jesus outside the Mar Shimoni Church, Bartella. On a Friday afternoon in the fall of 2017, a few months after the liberation of Mosul from the Islamic State, a group of neighbors gathered at Mar Mattai, a monastery founded in the fourth century. They unloaded baskets of food, and arranged themselves around a long table in a courtyard. A woman named Niser spread out a tablecloth and put down a plate of dolmas. "It's a way of celebrating that we still exist," she told me. More people were arriving--children, grandparents, cousins, aunts, and distant relations--members of one of the oldest Christian communities in the world who had not seen one another for three years.

In the summer of 2014, the Islamic State occupied Christian cities and villages across northern Iraq, appropriated Christian homes, and destroyed farms of Christian families. When Islamic State commanders separated men from women and imposed jizyah, or extortion taxes, their purpose was extreme: they meant to subjugate the Christians or drive them away from the land. Mar Mattai is some twenty miles from Mosul, Iraq's second-largest city, where more than one hundred thousand Christians were displaced from their homes. One of the children led me to a wall at the edge of the monastery and pointed below to the brown, dusty tracts of fields that lie at the edge of a region once known as Mesopotamia, the land between two rivers. From above, I saw how exposed the road to Mosul was.

The Christians here have endured invasions by Persians, Kurds, and Turks, but they have recovered after each persecution. This is, in part, their tradition: they believe in their sacred right to their land. Mosul is part of the Assyrian triangle, recorded in the Book of Genesis, and the plains of Nineveh--where the Hebrew prophet Jonah is said to have preached after he was spat out by a giant fish in the eighth century bc--are situated on the outskirts of Mosul on the east bank of the Tigris River.

This time, things were different, said Niser's husband, Behnam, a thirty-year-old who had come to the gathering from Qaraqosh, an Assyrian Catholic town just outside Mosul that was invaded by the Islamic State in 2014. "We're worried," he said. "Even with ISIS gone, there's another big threat: there is no work for us. Our enemy is emigration. People are leaving every day."

Read the full story here.Maria Ressa, the editor of Philippine online new outlet, Rappler, returns to the Philippines with a warrant issued for her arrest over tax fraud. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its affiliate the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) have condemned the arrest warrant and called for the warrant to be cancelled.

In October, the government accounted that they would be charging Ressa and Rappler with five counts of tax fraud. The Department of Justice confirmed last week it was charging Rappler with three counts of failure to file returns, and one count of tax evasion. The charges carry heavy fines and jail sentences of up to 10 years.

On Sunday, December 2, Ressa returned to the Philippines after several weeks of travel, and said she came back to "do what I need to do to face all this.

The charges against Rappler and Maria Ressa come after a targeted crackdown by the Duterte Administration. In January the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) order to revoke Rapplers operating license over allegations that Rappler had received investment funds from the international investor Omidyar Network, that it also gave the investors control over the media company, in violation of the Constitution. In February, Rappler journalist Pia Randa was banned from Malacanang, the Philippines Presidential Palace.

The NUJP said: President Rodrigo Duterte has never bothered to disguise his loathing for Rappler and critical media in general, repeatedly threatening to shut down news outfits he dislikes and insulting individual journalists, particularly those that doggedly document his brutal war on drugs and the growing number of corruption scandals hounding him and his administration. More than his inability to tolerate dissent, Dutertes relentless persecution of media appears to be part of the increasingly authoritarian direction his presidency has taken, as seen in the recent expansion of coverage of the state of national emergency he declared in September 2016 and his even more recent suggestion to create death squads to hunt down prospective  not even actual  rebels.

The IFJ said: We call for the charges against Rappler and Maria Ressa to be immediately revoked. The ongoing crackdown by the Duterte administration against critical voices and particularly Rappler are a violation of the Philippines free press and detrimental to the countrys democracy. We stand in solidarity with Rappler and Maria in fighting for freedom of expression and the press.The International and European Federations of Journalists (IFJ-EFJ) strongly condemn the confirmation of prison sentences for five journalists by the Third Penal Chamber of the Istanbul Regional Court of Justice in Turkey.

In the lawsuit filed against five journalists for participating in the Editors-in-Chief on Watch campaign that was launched in solidarity with Ozgur Gundem, a Kurdish daily newspaper, which was subsequently banned per the Statutory Decree no. 675, the Istanbul 13th Heavy Penal Court gave its verdict for Ayse Duzkan, Ragp Duran, columnists of the newspaper Mehmet Ali Celebi and Huseyin Bektas and its former Co-Editor-in-Chief Huseyin Aykol on January 16, 2018.

In its verdict, the court ruled that the journalists shall be penalized on charge of propagandizing for a terrorist organization as per the Article no. 7/2 of the Anti-Terror Law (TMK). While the court sentenced Huseyin Aykol to 3 years and 9 months in prison, it sentenced Huseyin Bektas, Mehmet Ali Celebi, Ayse Duzkan and Ragp Duran to 1 year and 6 months in prison each.

Announcing its verdict today (November 29), the Third Penal Chamber of the Istanbul Regional Court of Justice, upheld the prison sentences given to the journalists by the Istanbul 13th Heavy Penal Court.

Ayse Duzkan is a well-known Turkish female journalist and board member of DISK Basin Is, an affiliate of IFJ-EFJ and Ragip Duran is a respected columnists and a respected media observer and the other three are also respected colleagues. The campaign has nothing to do with propaganda for a terrorist organisation, its a unique act of solidarity from intellectuals towards a Kurdish daily newspaper under attack. The prison sentences against our colleagues are unacceptable, our colleagues must remain free, said the IFJ-EFJ.On October 12, the Thai company Thammakaset Co. Ltd., which operated chicken farms in Lopburi Province, filed a defamation complaint at the Bangkok Criminal Court against activist and human rights defender Sutharee Wannasiri. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has joined calls for the defamation charges to be dropped immediately.

On December 3, an international joint statement was issued calling for charges to be dropped, on the same day that the Bangkok Criminal Court is scheduled to hold preliminary hearings on the criminal defamation complaints. The complaints relate to short, 107-second video by Fortify Rights, which was shared on social media by former Fortify Rights human rights specialist Sutharee Wannasiri. Thammakaset also filed a complaint against Nan Win, one of the workers in the video.

If convicted of the criminal defamation charges filed in the case, Nan Win faces up to four years in prison and up to 400,000 Thai Baht (US$12,100) in fines and Sutharee Wannasiri faces up to six years in prison and up to 600,000 Thai Baht (US$18,150) in fines. Thammakaset also brought civil defamation complaints against Sutharee Wannasiri, seeking five million Thai Baht (US$151,400) in compensation for alleged damage to the companys reputation.

The joint statement, which the IFJ signed, said: We, the 16 undersigned organizations, call on the Thai authorities and Thammakaset Company Limited to ensure that the criminal and civil defamation complaints brought by the company against human rights defenders Nan Win and Sutharee Wannasiri for bringing attention to labor rights violations at a Thammakaset-owned chicken farm in Thailand do not proceed. The Bangkok Criminal Court is scheduled to hold preliminary hearings on the criminal defamation complaints on December 3.

We further call on the Thai authorities to ensure that no person is prosecuted or held criminally liable for defamation for activities protected under international law. The government should decriminalize defamation in Thai law and protect individuals and human rights defenders from abusive litigation aimed at curtailing the exercise of freedom of expression, said the statement.

The IFJ said: We reiterate the calls for the charges to be dropped immediately and for the Thai authorities to ensure defamation cannot be used a tool to silent critical voices. Laws and legislation cannot become tools of intimidation and repression.

Download the joint statement in Thai hereImperial Valley News Center

President Donald J. Trump Champions Economic Growth and Prosperity at the G20 Summit

Washington, DC - "Let us resolve to use our power, our resources, and our voices, not just for ourselves, but for our people  to lift their burdens, to raise their hopes, and to empower their dreams." ~ President Donald J. Trump

PROMOTING GROWTH AND PROSPERITY: President Donald J. Trump championed the successes of his pro-growth agenda at this years G20 Summit.

President Trump used the G20 Summit as an opportunity to reiterate his commitment to promoting economic growth and prosperity both domestically and across the world.

At the G20, President Trump highlighted the Administrations successes in achieving historic tax cuts, cutting regulations, and promoting workforce development. President Trumps economic policies have resulted in the United States seeing historically low unemployment and strong economic growth.

The President encouraged other countries to follow this path to promote economic growth and prosperity for citizens worldwide.

President Trump urged leaders to invest in job training and workforce reskilling to meet the needs of high-demand industries.

President Trump also addressed the need to promote economic opportunities for women around the world.

ACHIEVING FREE AND BALANCED TRADE: President Trump is working with world leaders to advance free, fair, and reciprocal trade.

President Trump seeks to advance a global economic system that is based on fair economic competition and free, fair, and reciprocal trade.

The President is working with other leaders to fight unfair trade practices.

At the Summit, the President officially signed the United StatesMexicoCanada Agreement (USMCA)  the largest, most advanced, and most balanced trade deal in our history. Once implemented, the USMCA will replace the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The Agreement will make North America the most competitive free, fair, and reciprocal trading bloc in the world.

In addition, President Trump met with many world leaders about securing fair market access for United States goods and services through bilateral trade deals.

INVESTING IN INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENERGY: President Trump is promoting the development of quality infrastructure and energy investment.Imperial Valley News Center

Iran Test Launches Ballistic Missile Violating UN Security Council Ban

Washington, DC - Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo: "The Iranian regime has just test-fired a medium range ballistic missile that is capable of carrying multiple warheads. The missile has a range that allows it to strike parts of Europe and anywhere in the Middle East. This test violates UN Security Council resolution 2231 that bans Iran from undertaking any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches using such ballistic missile technology . . .

"As we have been warning for some time, Irans missile testing and missile proliferation is growing. We are accumulating risk of escalation in the region if we fail to restore deterrence. We condemn these activities, and call upon Iran to cease immediately all activities related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons."Central African Republic National Day

Washington, DC - Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo: "On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the people of the Central African Republic as you celebrate your national day on December 1.

"The United States applauds the people of the Central African Republic for addressing challenges and hardships over the years. Today, we celebrate the friendship between our two nations. As Central Africans work to create a more peaceful, democratic, and prosperous future, you will find a steadfast partner in the United States.

"As you celebrate this proud occasion, I would like to extend my best wishes for peace, unity, and prosperity for all Central Africans in the year ahead."Being a reliable airline involves more than just getting people to their destination. Getty Images

Absurdly Driven looks at the world of business with a skeptical eye and a firmly rooted tongue in cheek.

Update: American Airlines now disputes the claim by Olympia Warsaw's family that she was abandoned at O'Hare airport overnight.

In recent times, some airlines have struggled with the concept of customer service like a mountain lion struggles with the concept of afternoon tea.

Yet what happened to American Airlines passenger Olimpia Warsaw seems to go beyond even the most basic tenets of looking after your customers.

At least if you believe her family's version, which the airline now disputes.

67-year-old Warsaw can't walk easily. She has Parkinson's and diabetes. She also struggles with communication.

Yet, she wanted to fly to her ex-husband's funeral.

All went well, CBS Chicago reports -- except that the airline apparently lost her luggage on the way out -- until she arrived back on Friday at Chicago's O'Hare airport for the homeward journey.

She was booked on a different flight from her son Claude Coltea.

He told CBS:

I walked with her all the way to her gate. I confirmed with the gate agent that the flight was on time. Everything was ok. She said, 'Yup, all's good. We'll take good care of your mom.'

Some might wonder whether good care would involve abandoning a woman who has difficulties communicating at the airport, still in a wheelchair.

Yes, overnight.

Her flight was, in fact, canceled.

The airline offered her hotel accommodation, having given the job of getting her back through the airport to a porter.

Coltea explained that the porter wasn't willing to go out of his way to help:

Ma'am, I have to go home -- this is what the porter explained -- because my shift's done. And so I don't know how to help you anymore. And he left her there.

Warsaw had no means of getting to her hotel, says Coltea. She was in her wheelchair hoping that someone, anyone would help.

Another family member, Julian Coltea said that she even had to attract the attention of a stranger in order to get to a bathroom.

How could it have happened that someone with such difficulties was simply abandoned?

I asked American Airlines whether it felt it had responsibility in this matter. A spokesperson told me:

Of course we do, she is our customer.

Why, then, was this customer not looked after? Family members say that when she didn't arrive back to Detroit, American didn't know where she was. The airline spokesperson told me:

We are very concerned about this, and have launched an investigation with our Chicago team and the vendor we utilize that provides wheelchair services at Chicago O'Hare. We have spoken with the family multiple times, and met with them both in Chicago and Detroit yesterday. Our team has already refunded back the fare for this trip.

One might imagine, however, that a refund is insufficient. Warsaw was seriously traumatized at being simply left by herself.

The airline told me that the porter had taken her to the hotel shuttle area. What happened next is less clear, said its spokesperson:

After that point, we are trying to understand what transpired.

Now, the airline says it has a better idea of what transpired and it doesn't tally with the family's version.

Of course there could have been some sort of miscommunication here. But a measure of customer service is how you look after your most vulnerable customers.

In this, it seems someone seriously erred, even if Warsaw -- as the airline now contends -- was left alone for only 45 minutes.

Claude Coltea put it succinctly:

All we wanted was someone to pause and say 'you know what, can we just make sure this human being is safe and then we can all go home'. Not one person did that.

Recently, American Airlines CEO Doug Parker suggested that the nuances of customer service were less important than simply getting customers to their destination on time.Sure, 2017 was a big year for tech mergers and acquisitions--but 2018 broke records. The first half of the year alone saw $2.5 trillion in mergers, setting a pace to make it the biggest year for major corporate deals ever. Red Hat, which went public in 1999, was acquired for a whopping $34 billion by IBM. It was a market leader and large company--but even startups are making massive, greater-than-$1 billion deals, thanks to the fact the world's largest tech firms possess unprecedented spending power. A recent survey by Deloitte revealed that executives are only gearing up for more, with 76 percent saying they anticipate increased deal-flow over the next 12 months.

"Corporations have spending firepower; more companies say their cash levels have increased, and M&A remains the No. 1 intended use of those funds," wrote Russell Thomson, a managing partner of Deloitte's Mergers and Acquisitions Services.

This year brought some dramatic exits for tech and startup entrepreneurs. Here are the nine biggest startup acquisitions of 2018, listed in ascending order of deal size:

9. Amazon puts a Ring on it

Just five years ago, tinkerer Jamie Siminoff went on ABC's Shark Tank, asking for just $700,000 for his company. He walked off without a deal. But after a rebrand (from "DoorBot" to "Ring") and a lot of publicity, the company drew in more than $200 million in venture capital. It now carries the distinction of being the largest company that has ever appeared on Shark Tank. ("Obviously, I think they wish they had invested," Siminoff recently told Inc.) It was no surprise when Amazon paid more than $1 billion to acquire it in February.

8. Nice work if you can get it

Known as "Yelp for job hunters," Glassdoor gives a window onto what working at a company is really like, thanks to testimonials from current and former employees. It was founded by three former Expedia employees in 2007, and by 2015 it was the fastest-growing career website. Recruit Holdings, a Japanese conglomerate that already owns job-search site Indeed.com, made the deal to buy Glassdoor for $1.2 billion in May.

7. Unlocking the big C

It's not easy to make an $81 million exit a la Google seem quaint, but that's what Nat Turner and Zach Weinberg did in April when they sold their latest company, cancer software maker Flatiron Health, to Roche for $1.9 billion. The software, used in cancer centers, gathers data about individual cases to help researchers learn about the disease. While doctors do pay to use the New York City-based service, investors were banking on the potential sales of Flatiron Health's learnings to drugmakers. The company had attracted more than $130 million in venture capital from the likes of Google Ventures, before the offer from the Swiss pharmaceutical giant came through.

6. Fourth time's a charm

Isaac Saldana, one of SendGrid's three co-founders, had already worked on three startups--each failed--before launching SendGrid, which aimed to be a better way to send email. By 2017, it had raised $80 million and had a sparkling new headquarters for more than 350 employees in Denver. Cloud-communications platform Twilio wanted to build into its platform email capabilities, and by buying the company for $2 billion in stock in October, it did just that--proving that sometimes the fourth time can be a charm.

5. PayPal gets Stockholm syndrome

The mobile-payments company iZettle was founded by Jacob de Geer and Magnus Nilsson in Stockholm in 2010. By mid-2018, it had spent roughly a year trying to go public--in what was expected to be Europe's largest-ever financial technology IPO. But by summer, PayPal had made its intentions clear, and ended up acquiring it for $2.2 billion--a move U.K. investigators found could give PayPal too much market dominance there. The company is still answering questions raised by the Competition and Markets Authority.

4. Takes one to know one

Dug Song was an elite hacker employed by a large software and security company when a high-schooler managed to hack into a digital trap he had set. But Song didn't report 17-year-old Jon Oberheide to the authorities; instead, he partnered with him to create a new digital-security company, Duo Security, specializing in two-factor authentication. The Ann Arbor, Michigan-based unicorn was acquired by Cisco for $2.35 billion in August.

3. There's an app (developer) for that

Github, the coding hub and one-time Inc. feature subject, has certainly had its highs and lows. In 2014, controversy forced co-founder Tom Preston-Werner out of his role, after he and his wife were accused of harassing a female employee. And it's chief executive, Chris Wanstrath, stepped down (oddly, for a second time) in August of 2017. But Github was still reporting $200 million in recurring annual revenue. Perhaps more appealing to Microsoft than the revenue was another key metric: 27 million developers use Github. That's a lot of new users for Microsoft's cloud. The deal was done in $7.5 billion in stock, and completed in October.

2. Survey the masses, dine with the classes

The stage wasn't just set for Qualtrics's IPO; dress rehearsals were called. The Provo, Utah-based customer-survey company, which reported $184 million in revenue for the first half of 2018, had already filed for an IPO and even set its IPO price range when it was snapped up by the German enterprise software giant SAP. It acquired the unicorn for $8 billion in cash in November.

1. If you can't beat them, acquire them

India's answer to Amazon was founded in 2007 by two former Amazon employees, who at first set out to sell books online. Sound familiar? By 2017, it had achieved nearly a 40 percent market share of India's e-commerce industry, putting it neck-and-neck with Amazon itself there. In an interestingly structured deal that will allow for Flipkart to go public in the future, Walmart acquired 77 percent of the company in August for $16 billion.

EXPLORE MORE Best in Business COMPANIESLocal newspapers in cities selected as recipients of The Independents AIDSfree Christmas appeal have rallied behind the campaign as they prominently featured a letter of support from Sir Elton John.

The legendary musician, who is backing our efforts to raise money to provide HIV testing and treatment for those who need it most across the globe, wrote to media outlets urging them to help raise awareness.

Coinciding with World Aids Day on 1 December, Sir Eltons appeal called for readers to know their status in order to help those who need it receive dignified help and support.

His plea appeared in the Daily Nation of Nairobi, the Delhi-based Times of India, Facts newspaper, printed in Kiev, Jornal Noticias in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique and the Saturday Nation in Nairobi.

As I write, 37 million people around the world are living with HIV. Last year alone, 1.8 million people newly contracted the disease and 940,000 died of Aids. This need not happen, Sir Elton said.

Todays medicines not only enable those living with HIV to have full and fulfilling lives, but also ensure they cannot pass the virus on to others.

The challenge is that too many people still do not realise they are at risk, are too afraid of the stigma or are denied the chance of taking an HIV test.

That is why we are raising awareness in cities around the world to combat the shame associated with HIV to promote safe, affordable testing and to help link people who need HIV treatment to the right care.

In this, its 30th year, the theme of World Aids Day is know your status. Why? Because everyone who needs it should have the chance of dignified help and support. That can only happen if we know our status.

 Elton John launches The Independent's AIDSfree campaign

Lets get them the help they need and ensure no one is left behind, wherever they may live and whoever they may be, so that we can truly create an Aids-free future.

The Independents AIDSfree campaign will fund for HIV testing and treatment in six international cities where help is needed  Nairobi, Kenya; Maputo in Mozambique; Delhi, India; Atlanta in the US; the Ukrainian capital Kiev and London.

Sir Elton and Evgeny Lebedev, owner of The Independent and the Evening Standard, travelled to Atlanta last week, one city selected for the Christmas appeal where the situation has become markedly worse in recent years.

Sir Elton John and Evgeny Lebedev try out one of the most recent developments in testing, a simple mouth swab (Jeremy Selwyn)

They were able to try out a recent developments in testing  a simple swab, wiped around the mouth, that people can do for themselves without even needing to go to a medical facility.

Sir Eltons AIDS Foundation is in some parts of the world planning to make it available for free in supermarkets so there is no barrier for anyone to getting a test when they want it.

Over the next few weeks, we will campaign to help those at risk of infection to access treatment, Mr Lebedev said.

We will tell the stories of the people who have been forgotten. We will fight to make sure governments give the disease the attention it requires.Andrew Williams had never heard of the word HIV when he tested positive. It was his mother who had forced him to go to the doctor where he got the diagnosis that he thought was a death sentence.

At that time he was in a wheelchair. It was the unbearable itching of his back that finally got him to get medical help but, he discovered, he not only had HIV but diabetes, high blood pressure and kidney disease.

That was two years ago. This week, as the 31-year-old joined Sir Elton John and Evening Standard and The Independent owner Evgeny Lebedev in Atlanta to witness the revolutionary new breakthroughs against the disease at the citys Grady Ponce De Leon Centre, there was no need for a wheelchair. Nor, he now knew, was there any need for fear.

Within two months of starting the latest antiretroviral drugs, the virus in his body had become undetectable in his blood. Not only is he now healthy, partly due to the drugs and partly due to the healthy lifestyle adopted for his other illnesses, but he can virtually not pass the infection to other people.

He feels, he says, reborn. I have a reason to live, he explained, and that is to help people who were like me  and to show youre going to be OK.

 Elton John launches The Independent's AIDSfree campaign

It was a message so stark in its optimism that it reduced Sir Elton to tears. He knows first-hand the realities of what, in the past, an HIV diagnosis can mean. When he started his Elton John AIDS Foundation in the US in 1992, it was because his friends were dying and he wanted to do what he could, anything that he could, to help.

When we set up the Elton John AIDS Foundation we were delivering meals to peoples doors, he said. [The stigma meant] they would not go outside. We have come a long way.

Andrew Williams today: 'I have a reason to live, and that is to help people who were like me  and to show youre going to be OK' (Jeremy Selwyn)

But part of the reason for his tears was not only happiness at Andrews story. It was also the knowledge that, despite all the advances that have been made, the fight is far from won  indeed, in some parts of the world, things are getting worse.

It is why he and Mr Lebedev had come to Atlanta to mark the first day of our Christmas Appeal, for that city, sadly, is one place where the situation is not only getting worse but, as those at the centre made clear, dramatically so.

In Atlanta, one of Americas richest cities and the home of such international corporate giants as Coca-Cola and CNN, if you are a gay black man in 2018 then, unbelievably, you still have a one in two chance of being diagnosed as HIV positive during your lifetime.

In Atlanta, if you are a gay black man in 2018 then, unbelievably, you still have a one in two chance of being diagnosed as HIV positive during your lifetime

In the last few weeks alone, three people the centre were trying to help died because of Aids. The reason is that, not knowing their HIV status and terrified of the stigma that HIV can still bring in the city, they came to get treatment too late.

The latest figures show black Americans in the US accounted for 44 per cent of HIV diagnoses, although they are only 12 per cent the population. As many as 54 per cent of gay black men who are HIV positive are believed to not receive the right treatment. Three decades after the first antiretroviral drug was licensed to help in the fight against HIV and Aids, for some it remains an epidemic.

Sir Elton John and Evgeny Lebedev try out one of the most recent developments in testing, a simple swab, wiped around the mouth (Jeremy Selwyn)

Sir Elton made clear his shock. It started off as a disease of young gay men in the 1980s, affluent people in in New York, LA and San Francisco, he said. Now its a disease of the poor all across America, but especially in the South. People are being forgotten. That is a disgrace.

It is why Atlanta is one of the cities being focused on as a recipient of this years Christmas Appeal. The money it raises will pay for those at risk to be able to get tested, and then will make sure they have access to the treatment they need.

Now its a disease of the poor all across America, but especially in the South. People are being forgotten. That is a disgrace Sir Elton John

At the centre, Sir Elton and Mr Lebedev tried out one of the most recent developments in testing. A simple swab, wiped around the mouth, that people can do for themselves without even needing to go to a medical facility. Sir Eltons Foundation is in some parts of the world planning to make it available for free in supermarkets so there is no barrier to anyone getting a test when they want it.

The simple fact is that in 2018 no one should be dying because of Aids, Mr Lebedev said. We have the drugs to control HIV. It is treatable. Today, any person, anywhere, dying because of Aids is a tragedy.

That is why I am so proud that this Christmas The Independent and the Evening Standard will raise money to combat this epidemic. It is a time of year for helping others, and our appeal will do exactly that.

Over the next few weeks, we will campaign to help those at risk of infection to access treatment. We will tell the stories of the people who have been forgotten. We will fight to make sure governments give the disease the attention it requires.

Today I saw first-hand the damage HIV can cause. I spoke with people who had lost loved ones; I heard from others struggling to receive treatment. I want this appeal to prevent more people suffering so needlessly. That would be a real Christmas miracle.The HIV epidemic in London could be halted in the next 12 years if everybody who has the virus is diagnosed and takes treatment, a leading doctor said on Monday, as The Independent and Evening Standard launched our Christmas appeal.

Breakthroughs in medicine mean that those on effective HIV drugs are now unable to pass it on, making testing for HIV crucial to breaking the epidemic chain.

HIV consultant Professor Jane Anderson said the capital is working towards making sure there are no new infections by 2030. We as a city are committing to zero new infections by 2030 and zero preventable deaths, she said. It is an achievable goal. We have seen a dramatic fall in new infections in this city. It is teaching us that this goal is possible.

Professor Anderson, director of the Centre for the Study of Sexual Health and HIV at the Homerton Hospital in Hackney, added: Effective treatment both keeps people well and also stops people from being infectious. This will break the epidemic chain. It can make sure the epidemic gets stopped in its tracks.

Latest figures from Public Health England show a marked decline in new diagnoses of HIV in London. There were 1,572 people newly diagnosed with HIV in the city in 2017, a 21 per cent fall from 2016.

New diagnoses in the UK as a whole have been declining since their peak in 2005, falling 17 per cent from 5,280 in 2016 to 4,363 in 2017. The country has also achieved the UNs 90-90-90 targets to end the Aids epidemic, with 92 per cent of people living with HIV diagnosed, 98 per cent of people diagnosed receiving treatment, and 97 per cent of people receiving treatment having an undetectable viral load, with levels of virus in the blood so low it cannot be passed on.

We have the stigma around HIV to tackle. People are still very fearful of an HIV diagnosis. At the moment thats a huge roadblock Professor Jane Anderson

Professor Anderson said: 90-90-90 is only the beginning. We still have people living in this city unaware of their HIV infection. There are still people who are unaware of the risks, who are not getting these messages.

She said London has chosen to go further and faster by also committing to zero HIV-related stigma and to improving the quality of life of people living with HIV. She warned: We have the stigma around HIV to tackle. People are still very fearful of an HIV diagnosis. At the moment thats a huge roadblock.

 Elton John launches The Independent's AIDSfree campaign

Currently 38,600 London residents are living with HIV, according to Public Health England. The borough of Lambeth has the highest rate in the country, with 15 residents per 1,000 diagnosed with the infection. The second highest rate is Southwark, with around 12 per 1,000.

Although the first port of call for an HIV test is often a sexual health centre, experts say many with undiagnosed HIV could be reached in other routine settings such as a GP clinic. Professor Anderson said testing at home through self-test kits available online is also an option. Experts say medicine to prevent HIV-negative people acquiring the infection (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is also making an impact, but currently only those involved in a national trial benefit from NHS-funded Prep treatment. Professor Anderson said making the drug more available, plus promoting the use of condoms, was also important in the battle against HIV. She added: We cannot take our foot off the pedal now.

Money raised from public donations through the AIDSfree appeal will be used to support the Elton John AIDS Foundation projects in six key cities around the world (London, Nairobi, Atlanta, Kiev, Delhi and Maputo). Through UK Aid Match the UK government will double public donations up to 2m to be spent across projects in Maputo and NairobiChristmas has come early for Marvel fans: not only has a brand new Captain Marvel trailer been released, an Avengers 4 one is on its way too.

One week after fans were left disappointed when a theory suggesting it would be released last week was disproved, reports state the first look at the Infinity War follow-up will drop later this week (a few days later than planned).

Considering the film is due to be released April 2019, many have been speculating that a trailer would be released before Christmas. So when the films directors, the Russo brothers, attended a fan screening hosted by Collider last Wednesday, theorists deemed the event the perfect occasion for it to drop.

Instead of unveiling the trailer, however, they shut down any questions about the fourth film by using an air-horn whenever it was mentioned.

The trailer will be released in the UK this Wednesday afternoon with many expecting it to drop on US show Good Morning America.

Avengers: Infinity War was released earlier this year, and saw Thanos (Josh Brolin) wreak destruction on Marvel superheroes, including Iron Man, Spider-Man and Black Panther.

Thanks to a tie-in book, two further characters were confirmed to have survived the characters destructive finger-snap leading to a huge theory surrounding the character of Dr Erik Selvig (Stellan Skarsgard) and his importance in the forthcoming film.

Disney and Marvel have kept incredibly silent about the sequel, but small details have emerged thanks to tie-in toys, chatty actors and the occasional leak, which we have collated here.

33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 Show all 34 1 /34 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 1. Captain America: Civil War Release date: 6 May 2016. Iron Man and Captain America are set to face off in this superhero blockbuster that will feature nearly all the Avengers but wont be an Avengers film. It will also mark the first time Spider-Man will feature in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with Sony having made a deal with Marvel Studios. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 2. X-Men: Apocalypse Release date: 27 May 2016. Following the success of Days of Future Past, Apocalypse will follow the young X-Men team as the battle against Oscar Isaacs titular villain as he gathers his four horsemen; Magneto (Fassbender), Angel (Hardy), Storm (Shipp), and Psylocke (Munn). Expect carnage and no Wolverine. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 3. Suicide Squad Release date: 5 August 2016. The first supervillain film, Suicide Squad is also based in the DCEU (DC Extended Universe, where Batman and Superman live) and will introduce the world to Margot Robbies Harley Quinn and Jared Letos Joker. One of the more exciting upcoming DC films thats for sure. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 4. Doctor Strange Release date: 4 November 2016. Benedict Cumberbatch will debut in the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe, where Captain America and Iron Man live) as the Sorcerer Supreme. The film already has an incredible cast, including Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachael McAdams and Tilda Swinton. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 5. Untitled Lego Batman film Release date: 20 February 2017. Kicking off 2017 is the Lego version of Batman, who will lead his own spin-off, having already featured in the amazing Lego Movie. Will Arnett voices the titular character, while Zach Garfianakis - from the Hangover - will voice The Joker. But will he better than Leto? 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 6. Untitled Wolverine film Release date: 3 March 2017. Having not starred in X-Men: Apocalypse, Wolverine will return to the big screen in a solo film which was recently made R-Rated following the success of Deadpool. It is expected to be Hugh Jackmans last outing as the titular character. Fox 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 7. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Release date: 5 May 2017. Chris Pratt and the crew are returning to space in the sequel to the surprisingly successful Guardians of the Galaxy. According to director James Gunn, the film will not feature Thanos, even though he will to play a major role in phase MCU Phase 3. Cast includes newcomers Kurt Russell and Pom Klementieff, as well as, rumour has it, Sylvester Stallone. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 8. Wonder Woman Release date: 23 June 2017. Gal Gadot is returning to the DCEU in her very own film, marking the first female-led superhero film on this list. Chris Pine is on board to play Wonder Womans love interest. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 9. Untitled Spider-Man reboot Release date: 7 July 2017. Yes, it is another Spider-Man reboot, having previously been redone with Andrew Garfield as the lead. However, this time it is part of the MCU, with Tom Holland as the titular character, and a heavily rumoured cameo by Iron Man could be in the pipeline. We can dream. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 10. Untitled Fox film Release date: 6 October 2017. In a strange announcement, Fox decided to withhold the release of Gambit until a future, as-yet unannounced date, which could be here, or this could be a completely separate project. Many suspect Deadpool 2 could nicely fit here, Fox capitalising on the success of the first film. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 11. Thor: Ragnarok Release date: 3 November 2017. Chris Hemsworth will be returning as the Norse God in his third solo MCU film. Flight of the Conchords Taika Waititi is on board to direct, and promises a fun adventure that will likely lead into Marvels next project, Infinity War. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 12. Justice League Part One Release date: 17 November 2017. Hot on the heals of Thor comes Justice League Part One, the first DCEU team-up flick which will see Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg work together to fight bad guys. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 13: Untitled Fox film Release date: 12 January 2018. Kicking off 2018 will likely be the second Deadpool film, but then again, this could very well be another X-Men team-up. Theres also talk of an X-Force film, with Deadpool and other mutants teaming up to fight evil. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 14. Black Panther Release date: 16 February 2018. The first non-white male-led superhero film in the MCU comes in the form of Black Panther, with Chadwick Boseman reprising the titular role, having also starred as the Panther in Civil War. Creeds Ryan Coogler is on to direct what could be a very exciting film. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 15. The Flash Release date: 16 March 2018. The Flash will be the first DCEU film since Justice League, and sees Ezra Miller take the lead. Phil Lord and Chris Miller were supposed to pen the film before Disney snapped them up for the Han Solo-film, leaving Seth Grahame-Smith to take charge. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 16. Avengers: Infinity War Part 1 Release date: 4 May 2018. And so, we finally get to the point of all these Infinity Stones! Thanos will be the big bad, with the Avengers needing to team up to defeat their biggest foe yet. It has previously been described as the end of the Avengers as we know it. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 17. Ant-Man and The Wasp Release date: 6 July 2018. Peyton Reed will be back to direct this surprise sequel to one of the better received MCU films. While the name is ridiculous, at least Marvel are finally having a leading female superhero. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 18. Untitled Fox film Release date: 13 July 2018. Again, not much word on this one except it is thought to be X-Men spin-off New Mutants, something Josh Boone has been hit up to write. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 19. Animated Spider-Man Film Release date: 20 July 2018. Avi Arad, Matt Tolmach, and Amy Pascal - the team behind the live-action Spider-Man films - are producing this unrelated animated adaptation of the hero. Because you can never have too much Spider-Man, right? 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 20. Aquaman Release date: 27 July 2018. Another Justice League spin-off, Jason Momoa plays the leading man. Furious 7s James Wan is on to direct, but little else is known about the film. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 21. Captain Marvel Release date: 8 March 2019. Weve hit 2019, and the first confirmed superhero film will be the first proper female-led MCU film. No-one is confirmed to be in the titular role of Carol Danvers just yet. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 22. Shazam Release date: 5 April 2019. Dwayne Johnson stars as the villain in this DCEU film which will be somewhat separate to the other DC films. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 23. Avengers: Infinity War Part 2. Release date: 3 May 2019. The conclusion to the long drawn MCU saga. Expect a big finish with at least a few planets being destroyed. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 24. Justice League Part Two Release date: 14 June 2019. Soon after the Infinity War story reaches its conclusion, so will the Justice Leagues. Not much is known, except Darkseid will likely be the villain for at least one of the parts. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 25. Inhumans Release date: 12 July 2019. The concept of Inhumans (or Marvels mutants) has already been introduced in TV, through Marvels Agents of Shield, yet the film is expected to introduce the Royal Family who have yet to be seen in the show. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 26. Cyborg Release date: 3 April 2020. Having debuted in Justice League Part One three years previously, Cyborg will finally be making his own outing, with Ray Fisher as the titular character. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 27. Untitled MCU film Release date: 1 May 2020. The first of three untitled Marvel films. There are a couple of contenders, the first is a likely sequel to Spider-Man with Sony, or a third Guardians of the Galaxy film, thus finishing the trilogy. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 28. Green Lantern Corps. Release date: 19 June 2020. Before you start to worry, this has nothing to do with the Ryan Reynolds-starring flick that hit cinemas a little while ago. Instead, this will be another DCEU film that will likely spin-off from Justice League after the Green Lantern Corps cameo in one of the parts. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 29. Untitled MCU film Release date: 10 July 2020. As well as Spider-Man or Guardians of the Galaxy sequels, a Doctor Strange or Black Panther one could fit in nicely here. Or perhaps Black Widow may finally get the solo-film she deserves. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 30. Untitled MCU film Release date: 6 November 2020. Some speculators also think a Blade film could fit in here, marking over 20 years since the first Blade. But many believe the character may be better suited to a Netflix series, as with Daredevil and Jessica Jones. Theres also talk of a Runaways film reaching cinemas at some stage. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 31. Untitled Ben Affleck Batman film Release date: TBA. Now were onto the TBA release dates, the first of which is a Batman solo film, written and directed by Ben Affleck. When this is due, no one is quite sure but expect it sooner rather than later if Batman v Superman is a success. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 32. Suicide Squad 2 Release date: TBA (rumoured 2017). A sequel to Suicide Squad is expected to come in 2017 according to recent reports, but nothing has been confirmed. If the first is successful, it should come as no surprise for Warner Bros to rearrange their schedule to fit in this surefire hit. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 33. Venom Release date: TBA. This is an odd one, as it has been confirmed Sony are wanting to release a Venom film completely unrelated to the upcoming Spider-Man reboot. Venom, as you may know, is a Spider-Man villain, intrinsically linked to Spider-Man, so it seems odd they would release a film unrelated to the rebooted project and not linked to the MCU. 33 Superhero films set for release between 2016 and 2020 Anything else? Well, now you mention it, theres also that sequel to Fantastic Four that has seemingly been dropped by Fox. Plus, theres the Gambit film which has been put on hold (but will likely fill an untitled Fox slot so we havent added it extra). Then again, it could be shoehorned in somehow Marvel

Next up from the Marvel Cinematic Universe is Captain Marvel which will see Brie Larson become the studios first female to spearhead a film solo. Itll be released on 8 March, and a brand new trailer is set to be released on ESPN this evening (thatll be overnight for UK fans).

Avengers 4 will be released in the UK on 26 April.In last weeks episode of The Little Drummer Girl (BBC1), Commander Picton, Charles Dances contemptuous UK intelligence officer, recalled torturing a young Israeli man decades earlier in a failed attempt to extract information. When I let him go, he said, I thought to myself, God if I havent made a little drummer boy right here, ready to bang his gong into the next battle they find for him, I dont know what Ive done. The question heading into tonights final episode was this: into which battle will our little drummer girl be marching?

Charlie, whose moral flip-flopping would be infuriating if it wasnt for the warm, nuanced charisma with which Florence Pugh imbues her, is newly returned from the exhilarating hell of her Lebanese training camp. She was there under false pretences, ostensibly to be trained as a pro-Palestinian terrorist but actually as an informant for Israeli spies. But while she was there, Israeli airstrikes wiped out the children she had played with minutes before. Her loyalty to Mossad, fragile to begin with, now seemed untenable.

Now, she finds herself face to face with Khalil (Charif Ghattas), the mastermind behind a series of bombings that have taken place throughout Europe, and whose dead brother Salim she is pretending to have loved. After ordering Charlie to take off her clothes and turn in a circle (an instruction that will prove crucial to a later twist but which director Park Chan-wook films without any lecherous, lingering camerawork), Khalil decides she can be trusted, and carefully assembles a bomb which she is expected to plant. Whether Charlie is planning on going through with her part in a planned attack on an Israeli lecturer at a London university, or betraying Khalil, is as unclear as ever.

Florence Pugh and Alexander Skarsgard in The Little Drummer Girl (BBC)

There is a meta element to The Little Drummer Girl that makes it even more perplexing. This is a fiction within a fiction within a fiction, its artifice so precariously constructed, with layer upon layer of feints and performances, that the whole thing threatens to topple. That it just about manages not to do so is surely a sign it has succeeded.

Where tonights series denouement falls a little flat is when Charlie isnt onscreen. As Alexander Skarsgard (who plays Gadi), so impressive elsewhere in dramas such as Big Little Lies, has been the series weakest link. Through no fault of his own though. In the last few episodes in particular, Gadi is given almost nothing to do but mope after Charlie  who, lets face it, hes only actually met a handful of times. Still, it makes a change from the more common narrative, in which the man is out doing, and the woman is at home waiting.

Everyone here, in fact, besides Charlie and Khalil, is waiting. At times, it renders the episode a little sluggish  as stagnant as the air in the minivans theyre all crammed into  but you have to applaud Chan-wook for marching to the beat of his own drum.

Eventually Khalil, who wrongly believes that the university attack went off without a hitch, unwittingly triggers a signal to the Israelis and the British that they should storm into his house. Gadi promptly shoots him dead, but if he expected a heros welcome from Charlie he was mistaken. She runs straight to Khalils side and sobs over his lifeless body. A week later, another terrorist attack in Amsterdam leaves 15 dead. Nothing has changed.

You cannot kill the devil, says Michael Shannons Kurtz. Only the man performing him. There are no winners or losers here, and no good or evil either. It is a depressing, and powerful, conclusion.

As for the question of Charlies loyalty, what makes this show so enthralling  and indeed maddening  is that we will probably never know. And neither, it seems, will she.Donald Trump has said China is prepared to cut tariffs on US car imports, sending shares in carmakers up and boosting Chinese dealer stocks.

Mr Trump tweeted: China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the US. Currently the tariff is 40 per cent.

He provided no details about when the reduction would be applied, or what the new levies would be, and Beijing has yet to comment on the arrangement.

The US leader met his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Argentina over the weekend, where they agreed to halt new tariffs following months of escalating trade tensions.

Over a two and a half hour dinner, Mr Xi agreed to resume purchases of US farm and energy commodities, while Mr Trump said he would postpone an increase in tariffs on $200bn (157bn) worth of Chinese imports.

The two countries also agreed to negotiate Chinese policies on intellectual property over the next 90 days.

However, some commentators warned that it may be difficult for China to stick to its promises.

Bart Hordijk, market analyst at Monex Europe, said: Looking forward, we estimate that trade tensions may diminish on the short run after this truce was struck, but will increase again as the deadline for China to show the required improvements approaches in three months time.

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This is because it seems unlikely that China will be able to adhere to all the demands, like importing more US agricultural goods, as there is simply not enough demand for those products in China.

Also, the Chinese have it as a goal to become (or, indeed, stay) a global leader in the tech sphere and will therefore not easily give up its policies that help it to acquire the intellectual property it needs for this. It may even be willing to sacrifice some trade benefits for this.Civilisations are going to collapse and much of nature will be wiped out to extinction if humanity doesn't take urgent action on climate change, Sir David Attenborough has warned.

The naturalist gave a terrifying picture of the future of humanity during climate talks being held in Poland. He said that humanity was facing a major threat and that leaders had to drive down harmful emissions if they wanted to preserve the natural world.

The warning came as Sir David took the "People's Seat" at the opening of the conference, as part of a UN initiative that aims to give normal people a voice at the international climate talks.

10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Show all 10 1 /10 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A group of emperor penguins face a crack in the sea ice, near McMurdo Station, Antarctica Kira Morris 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Floods destroyed eight bridges and ruined crops such as wheat, maize and peas in the Karimabad valley in northern Pakistan, a mountainous region with many glaciers. In many parts of the world, glaciers have been in retreat, creating dangerously large lakes that can cause devastating flooding when the banks break. Climate change can also increase rainfall in some areas, while bringing drought to others. Hira Ali 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Smoke  filled with the carbon that is driving climate change  drifts across a field in Colombia. Sandra Rondon 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Amid a flood in Islampur, Jamalpur, Bangladesh, a woman on a raft searches for somewhere dry to take shelter. Bangladesh is one of the most vulnerable places in the world to sea level rise, which is expected to make tens of millions of people homeless by 2050. Probal Rashid 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Sindh province in Pakistan has experienced a grim mix of two consequences of climate change. Because of climate change either we have floods or not enough water to irrigate our crop and feed our animals, says the photographer. Picture clearly indicates that the extreme drought makes wide cracks in clay. Crops are very difficult to grow. Rizwan Dharejo 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Hanna Petursdottir examines a cave inside the Svinafellsjokull glacier in Iceland, which she said had been growing rapidly. Since 2000, the size of glaciers on Iceland has reduced by 12 per cent. Tom Schifanella 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A river once flowed along the depression in the dry earth of this part of Bangladesh, but it has disappeared amid rising temperatures. Abrar Hossain 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A shepherd moves his herd as he looks for green pasture near the village of Sirohi in Rajasthan, northern India. The region has been badly affected by heatwaves and drought, making local people nervous about further predicted increases in temperature. Riddhima Singh Bhati 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A factory in China is shrouded by a haze of air pollution. The World Health Organisation has warned such pollution, much of which is from the fossil fuels that cause climate change, is a public health emergency. Leung Ka Wa 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Water levels in reservoirs, like this one in Gers, France, have been getting perilously low in areas across the world affected by drought, forcing authorities to introduce water restrictions. Mahtuf Ikhsan

He said the world was facing its greatest threat in thousands of years: climate change.

"If we don't take action, the collapse of our civilisations and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizon," he said.

"The world's people have spoken, their message is clear  time is running out. They want you, the decision-makers, to act now.

"They're supporting you in making tough decisions but they're also willing to make sacrifices in their daily lives."

The UN has launched an "ActNow.bot" which helps people discover simple everyday actions they can take to tackle climate change.

Sir David said: "The people have spoken: leaders of the world, you must lead, the continuation of our civilisations and the natural world upon which we depend are in your hands."

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned negotiators at the meeting that the world was in deep trouble with climate change.

"Climate change is running faster than we are and we must catch up sooner rather than later, before it's too late," he said.

"For many people, regions and even countries, this is already a matter of life and death."

He also said that climate action was not just the right thing to do, it made social and economic sense  pointing to how action to cut emissions would curb air pollution deaths and generate millions of jobs and trillions of dollars.

The speeches come after four former presidents of the annual UN climate talks warned that the world was at a crossroads, and decisive action in the next two years would be crucial to tackle the threat of climate change.

In a joint statement, France's Laurent Fabius, Frank Bainimarama, from Fiji, Salaheddine Mezouar, from Morocco, and Peru's Manuel Pulgar Vidal said: "The challenges are there, as are the solutions.

"We require deep transformations of our economies and societies to build a better world for all. This must be powered by multilateral co-operation."

They called for ambitious decisions that were sufficiently detailed and comprehensive to enable the effective operation of the Paris Agreement, secured three years ago in the French capital to curb global warming.

A process to enable countries to announce efforts by 2020 to ramp up their domestic ambition on cutting greenhouse gas emissions must be launched, they said, as current efforts were not enough to prevent dangerous temperature rises.

And there needed to be progress on the goal of mobilising $100bn (78bn) a year for poorer countries to drive clean growth, they urged.

The World Bank has announced that it is doubling investments in climate action with $200bn for 2021-2025, including $50bn towards helping countries adapt to the impacts of global warming.

Negotiators at the talks will hear details of a global review on efforts to tackle climate change, and the pressure is on to work towards increasing commitments from countries by 2020.

The talks also aim to draw up the rulebook for making the Paris deal operational, and poorer countries will be looking for a boost to the finance being made available to help them develop cleanly.

Additional reporting by agenciesWhile a Final Say referendum is probably now inevitable, it begs some questions of its own. As the various other immediate options  the May deal, no deal, a general election  proceed to be successively rejected by the House of Commons, the referendum will emerge as the last resort. So the question of The Question will soon assume a central importance in British politics. It is itself fraught with presuppositions and prejudices of its own.

One option would be to reuse the question put in the 2016 referendum, with a simple X in a box for the voters preference:

Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union or leave the European Union?White truffles, some of the most coveted, and expensive fungi, are much cheaper than usual - meaning those looking to indulge should do so this year.

The more-affordable price, the lowest in more than a decade, according to the Wall Street Journal, is the result of a particularly rainy season in Alba, Italy, which led to a bumper crop of truffles.

Alba, located in Northern Italy, is the go-to destination for truffles, which are grown from early October through December and highly sought after for their distinct, musky flavour.

According to the newspaper, the average price for a kilo of fresh white truffles is currently between 2,000 to 2,500 ($1,030 to $1,286 per pound, 1,783 to 2,229) - nearly half the price of last years crop of truffles.

Recently, an 850-gram white truffle from Alba sold for $96,000 (75,400).

This years lower price means the beloved truffles may also become more affordable in restaurants - where truffles are often served shaved raw atop pasta dishes.

If we cant find any truffles, then a high price isnt much use to anybody, Italian truffle hunter Maurizio Grazioso told the WSJ. And we want the truffle to be available to everybody, not just the elite.

Black magic: Skye Gyngell reveals the best way to serve truffle Show all 4 1 /4 Black magic: Skye Gyngell reveals the best way to serve truffle Black magic: Skye Gyngell reveals the best way to serve truffle 40355.bin Loic le Loet Black magic: Skye Gyngell reveals the best way to serve truffle 40356.bin Loic le Loet Black magic: Skye Gyngell reveals the best way to serve truffle 40357.bin Loic le Loet Black magic: Skye Gyngell reveals the best way to serve truffle 40358.bin Loic le Loet

At Felidia in New York City, which boasts an entire menu dedicated to white truffles, the prices range from $103 to $320 - with just a shaving of white truffle costing $75.

According to the New York Post, the average charged by a restaurant is typically $7 (5.50) per gram of white truffle.

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As for what to look for in a truffle dish, chef Eric Ripert of Le Bernardin recommends eating only fresh truffles - as they lose a certain percentage of smell and flavour everyday so should be prepared and eaten as soon as possible.This hill, though high, I covet to ascend;

The difficulty will not me offend.

For I perceive the way to life lies here.

Come, pluck up, heart; let's neither faint nor fear.

Better, though difficult, the right way to go,

Than wrong, though easy, where the end is woe.

 John Bunyan, The Pilgrims ProgressLabour politician Harriet Harman has called for female MPs around the world to have a global network, following the very first Women MPs of the World Conference in the Chamber of the House of Commons.

On 8 November, female MPs from 100 parliaments in five continents around the world attended the summit, in which they debated numerous issues that theyve faced throughout their careers in politics.

The findings of these discussions, which have been published by the 'Mother of the House of Commons' today, explored the threatening messages and abuse that female MPs and their families regularly receive online and in person, how female politicians are frequently judged by their appearances, and the discrimination and harassment that some of them have experienced at the hands of their male peers.

They also discussed subject matters such as the way in which some male politicians in various countries will fill quota seats in parliament with their female partners or relatives so that they can influence the legislature of their government with greater ease.

Harman, who was leader of the Labour Party from 8 May 2015 until 12 September 2015, spoke about the importance of ensuring that womens voices are heard in politics.

There are now women in nearly every parliament in the world, she said.

We have fought our way in past prejudice and discrimination, often in the face of threats and violence.

International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Show all 17 1 /17 International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Radical political activist Angela Davis speaks at a protest in Raleigh Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Poor pay, 14 hour days and dangerous working conditions led to a strike by around 1400 women and girls at a match factory in Bow, London, 1888. The action was later coined The Matchgirls Strike International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Christabel Pankhurst, one of the founders of the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) and a leading member of the suffragette movement, addresses a crowd in Trafalgar Square in a speech in which she invites the crowd to rush the House of Commons, 11 October 1908. Christabel Pankhurst and her mother Emmeline, alongside Flora Drummond, were arrested two days later charged with conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace. The rush on parliament went ahead without them however, with over 60,000 suffragettes attempting to break through the 5000 strong police cordon protecting parliament. Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Suffragette Emily Davison is hit and killed by King George V's horse Anmer during the 1913 Epsom Derby. She fell underneath the galloping horse after leaping from the crowd and trying to grab hold of the reins Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Striking women machinists from the Ford plant at Dagenham protest outside negotiations over their wages, 1968. The women went on strike over their lack of pay in relation to their male colleagues. The action helped to trigger the Equal Pay Act 1970 Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history The women's liberation movement march in Washington, August 1970 Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Protestors disrupt the 1970 Miss World competition. Original caption: The Miss World contest causes a feminist storm as demonstrators invade the Royal Albert Hall where the contest was held. Protestors fired ink at spectators and let off stink bombs in scenes resembling a school assembly. The unruly ladies were eventually expelled from the hall by security guards and policemen Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Somalians demonstrating in Mogadishu for the release of Angela Davis, March 1972, a Black Panther activist imprisoned in the USA after being charged with first degree murder. Davis was later acquitted Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Jayaben Desai, one of the mostly British-Asian women out on strike at the Grunwick factory in 1977, pictured on the picket line Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Women protest against nuclear weapons outside of RAF base Greenham Common, 1982 Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Indian protestors hold candles during a rally in New Delhi in December 2012, after the death of a student who was gang raped on a bus in the Indian capital Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history A feminist group Sisters Uncut protesting against cuts to domestic violence refuges occupy the red carpet during a protest at the Suffragette premiere, 7 October 2015 Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history People gather for the Womens March in Washington, January 2017 Reuters International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Protesters walk during the Womens March on Washington, with the US Capitol in the background, in January, 2017. Donald Trump was sworn in as president the previous day Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Women march as part of the gender equality protest in London, March 2017 AFP/Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Demonstrators march through during the March4Women event, 4 March 2018, London Getty International Womens Day: groundbreaking figures from history Placards are displayed during the March4Women, 4 March 2018, London Getty

Women in parliament are pioneers. We have been elected to sit alongside men in our legislatures. But we are, as yet, not on equal terms.

We are still in a minority and are relatively new arrivals in legislatures which are male-dominated.

She continued, expressing her belief in the need for a global network for female MPs.

Recommended First female MP to be honoured in Westminster

Most global summits are male-dominated or even men only. For men MPs the international network is well developed, but it isnt for women, she said.

Out of our conference has come a powerful global network of committed women who want to work together for progress for each of our countries and all of our people.

There was a strong desire to hold the conference annually in different parliaments around the world so we can continue to support each other and share ideas.

Women in politics are a new force for global change.

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Nafisa Shah, member of the national assembly in Pakistan, spoke about the negative way in which female politicians in the country are regarded by their male peers.

"Women MPs face discrimination and harassment, even when they become prime ministers," she said.

"Even though women have become visible through party lists, the list system has become the basis of the very discrimination that we challenge.

"Our male colleagues call such seats 'charity seats' and remind women every day that they are not real representatives."Schoolgirls in the UK have called for street harassment to be made a criminal offence while taking part in a discussion about the topic in the House of Lords.

In the first parliamentary debate of its kind, organised by global childrens charity Plan International UK, 200 girls shared the views on various issues that they face today.

During the debate, they expressed how catcalling and other forms of street harassment can make them feel ashamed and self-conscious of their bodies and hold them back from realising their full potential.

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The debate occurred following a survey of 1,0004 girls and young women conducted by Plan International UK and Opinium.

According to the findings of the survey, 40 per cent of girls and young women say that if street harassment were to be a made a criminal offence, then this could reduce the number of incidents of non consensual touching and unsolicited sexual attention that they frequently experience in public.

The study also found that 38 per cent of girls and young women think there should be easier means of reporting cases of sexual harassment, such as by text or online, while 30 per cent believe that having improved PSHE/RSE lessons in school could prevent street harassment from happening at all.

Aleyna, a schoolgirl from London, spoke about her experiences of street harassment while taking part in the parliamentary debate.

Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Show all 35 1 /35 Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures London Women's rights demonstrators hold placards and shout slogans during the Time's Up rally at Richmond Terrace, opposite Downing Street in London. Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures London The Time's Up initiative was launched at the start of January 2018 as a response to the #MeToo movement and the Harvey Weinstein scandal. AFP/Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Berlin Women's March in Berlin. EPA Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures London The Time's Up Women's March marks the one year anniversary of the first Women's March in London and in 2018 it is inspired by the Time's Up movement against sexual abuse. Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Paris Women hold a banner reading "still feminist" with the Eiffel tower in background on the Trocadero esplanade in Paris. AFP/Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures London Protesters hold up placards at the Women's March in central London. Rex Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Paris A demonstator hold signs on the Trocadero esplanade in Paris during a women's march organised as part of global protests. AFP/Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures London Chanting Times Up in the cold rain - On the anniversary of the Women's March on London. Rex Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures New York Thousands of people gather holding protest signs on Central Park West. EPA Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures New York Demonstrators take part in the Women's March in Manhattan Reuters Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Chicago A woman holds a sign during the Second Annual Womens March in Chicago AFP/Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures New York People gather near Central Park before the beginning of the Women's March in New York Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Washington Supporters gather during the Women's March in Washington AFP/Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures New York The crowd lines up near Central Park Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Chicago Demostrators attend the Second Annual Womens March in Chicago AFP/Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures New York Thousands hold signs and rally while attending the Womens March in New York Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures New York People gather near Central Park before the beginning of the Women's March in New York Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Washington People participate in the second annual Women's March in Washington Reuters Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures New York People hold signs up during the women's march Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Philadelphia Oscar Janicki, 6, participates in the Second Annual Women's March in Philadelphia Reuters Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Philadelphia Crowds gather to participate in the Second Annual Women's March in Philadelphia Reuters Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Washington People participate in the second annual Women's March in Washington Reuters Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures New York Women pose as they attend the second annual National Womens March in New York City AFP/Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Washington People participate in the second annual Women's March in Washington Reuters Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures New York People gather prior to the second annual National Womens March in New York City AFP/Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures New York People take part in the Women's March in Manhattan Reuters Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures New York People gather the second annual National Womens March AFP/Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Washington People participate in the Second Annual Women's March in Washington Reuters Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Rome A woman holds a banner reading "Womwn united will never be defeated" during Rome Resists demonstration part of the Women's March in downtown. AFP/Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Rome Italian actress Asia Argento (3rdL) attends the Rome Resists demonstration part of the Women's March in downtown Rome. AFP/Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Rome The Women's March Rome, designed to show solidarity for the protection of civil and social rights, women's rights and the environment included Italian actress Asia Argento, one of the first women to accuse US film producer Harvey Weinstein of sexual assault. AFP/Getty Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Zurich A US citizen holds a poster on the anniversary of the inauguration of President Trump apologising to the world on behalf of her country, in Zurich, Switzerland. A year after millions of people took to the streets across the US and countries around the world, women's marches are being held in lots of cities this weekend. EPA Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures New York People take part in the Women's March in Manhattan Reuters Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Rome A woman holds a banner reading "The rising of the women means rising of us all" during Rome Resists demonstration. AFP/Getty Images Women's March 2018 across the world: in pictures Rome A woman lifts her fist while holding a banner reading "Hear our voice" during Rome Resists demonstration. AFP/Getty

Yesterday I was afraid to go to my local library to study for an exam, she said.

Why? Because Im a young girl, and young girls just like me find it difficult to go out late just in case something happens to us.

Do you see how this stops me from achieving my full potential - just because Im a girl?

Tanya Barron, chief executive of Plan International UK, emphasises the importance of listening to the concerns of girls with regards to street harassment.

Girls are telling us loud and clear that they want street harassment to be taken more seriously, she says.

The results of both the debate in the House of Lords and the survey highlight the need to consistently put girls voices at the centre of any discussion about how the UK government tackles street harassment.

It is vital that we continue to listen to girls experiences of harassment in public and to hear from them how it compromises their freedom, in order to find and effectively implement solutions to the barriers that they face.

 Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events

Street harassment is not a trivial issue and Plan International UK is calling on the government to recognise street harassment in public as a form of gender-based violence, in its strategy to end violence against women and girls.

According to a recent survey, nearly a third of women who take public transport say that theyve experienced unwanted attention in the past year, with many of the victims stating that they dont feel they can do anything about it.Qatar will leave the oil producers group Opec in January to focus on liquefied natural gas.

Qatar has been a member of the organisation for 57 years, and is the first country to leave since Indonesia withdrew in 2008.

The decision comes during a diplomatic dispute between Qatar and Opecs de facto leader, Saudi Arabia. However, Doha said the departure was not linked to politics.

Qatars minister of state for energy affairs, Saad al-Kaabi, said: For me to put efforts and resources and time in an organisation that we are a very small player in and I dont have a say in what happens ... practically it does not work, so for us its better to focus on our big growth potential.

He told a news conference that Qatar would still attend the groups meeting on Thursday and Friday this week, and would abide by its commitments.

Naeem Aslam at online broker Think Markets said the move was not good news for the oil market.

Statista

Mr Aslam said: Basically, Qataris have brought the biggest weapon out and it only means more instability between the Qatari and Saudi relationship.

In fact, we would not be surprised if other countries start to follow the same path  and then we have no control over supply or demand as each individual country could just do what they like.

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He added: Yes, for now, there is optimism that Saudi Arabia and Russia are committed to keep the supply under control. This has jolted the price of oil higher especially the fact that Canadas largest oil-producing province is curbing the output.

Global benchmark Brent crude was up more than 4.5 per cent at $62.16 (55.43) on Monday morning.Writing plays is not a way of earning a living, its a way of earning a life, declared Cuban-American playwright Maria Irene Fornes, in Michelle Memrans documentary, The Rest I Make Up.

Fornes, who has died aged 88, was a driving force in New Yorks experimental Off-Broadway theatre scene. Though she had only an elementary school education, over the course of her career she won nine Obie awards and was short-listed for a Pulitzer. Through her playwriting workshops she shaped a whole generation of new writers. Fellow writer Paula Vogel wrote: In the work of every American playwright at the end of the 20th century, there are only two stages: before she has read Maria Irene Fornes and after.

Fornes, who preferred to call herself Irene, was born in Havana, Cuba. She was the youngest of six. After the death of her father in 1945, she emigrated to the United States with her mother and one of her sisters. Upon arriving in the US, Fornes found work in a shoe factory but learned English in her spare time, with the aim of becoming a translator. She was also interested in art, and studied painting under renowned abstract expressionist Hans Hoffman in New York.

Fornes with filmmaker Michelle Memranin in Seattle in 2005 (Michelle Memran) (Michelle Memran)

Fornes became a US citizen at the age of 21, but three years later she followed her lover, writer Harriet Sohmers Zwerling, to Paris. When the relationship ended, Fornes returned to New York to work as a textile designer. She had become interested in theatre while living in France but it was not until she embarked on a relationship with Susan Sontag that she was inspired to turn her own creative talents to playwriting.

In fact, Fornes claimed she began to write to prove to Sontag, who was struggling to begin a novel, that writing really wasnt so difficult. As the two women sat at their kitchen table one evening, Fornes wrote a short story using a recipe book as a prompt. In 1986, she told Ross Wetzsteon, of the Village Voice: I might never have thought of writing if I hadnt pretended I was going to show Susan how easy it was.

As a result of that evening in 1961, Fornes turned a series of letters written by a Spanish cousin into a play called La Viuda (The Widow). Her first play in English came two years later; There! You Died, later renamed Tango Palace, was a two-hander between a clown and a young man. Michael Townsend Smith, who co-directed a production of Tango Palace with Fornes in 1973, described it as a waspish gay pas de deux. It set the tone for Forness future work, focusing as it did on character over plot.

Just four years after she started writing on a whim, Fornes won her first Obie award for Promenade and The Successful Life of 3. Unlike many playwrights, she was keen to be involved in all aspects of her plays in production.

She used her skill as a visual artist in costume design, and directed her own work whenever she could. For that 1973 production of Tango Palace, Townsend Smith recalls how Irene made the set out of bubble wrap she found on the street.

That same year, she founded the New York Theatre Strategy, as a means of disseminating her avant garde approach. For her 1977 play, Fefu and Her Friends, Fornes pioneered the method of having scenes playing simultaneously in multiple locations in the theatre, with the audience divided into groups moving between the sets.

Fornes always focused strongly on her female characters; Fefu And Her Friends, which the LA Times called a landmark of feminist playwriting, explored female relationships through the eyes of eight women. It earned Fornes another Obie.

From the Sixties right through the Nineties, Fornes was prolific. She wrote more than 40 plays and translated and produced many others. She was director of the Hispanic Playwrights-in-Residence Laboratory at New Yorks INTAR, one of the United States oldest Hispanic theatre companies. Her work was diverse and defied categorisation, which is perhaps why commercial success evaded her. Fornes wrote her final play, Letters From Cuba, in 2000. It earned her one last Obie.

Though she was no longer working in a formal sense, Fornes continued to inspire. Journalist Michelle Memran struck up a friendship with the playwright after interviewing her in 1999. Memran recorded their discussions about creativity on a Hi-8 camera, a process that became an important new creative outlet for Fornes as her memory began to fade.

After she was diagnosed with Alzheimers disease in 2005, Fornes continued to work with Memran, documenting what Memran described as a remarkably creative period of her [Forness] life, until she eventually became too ill. Memrans films formed the basis of the documentary The Rest I Make Up. The title is taken from a line in one of Fornes plays, Promenade, which perhaps sums up the playwrights creative MO; I know everything. Half of it I really know. The rest I make up.

Maria Irene Fornes, playwright, born 14 May 1930, died 30 October, 2018Lonesome George, the giant Galapagos tortoise who became a symbol for the conservation movement as the last member of his species is, in death, helping scientists crack the secrets of long life.

DNA from the last of the now extinct Pinta Island tortoises and the related Aldabra giant tortoise which is native to the Indian Ocean has been studied by researchers from Yale University.

Giant tortoises can live well beyond a century and the team identified a host of genetic attributes which help them prevent cancerous mutations.

It is thought they could give new insights for healthy ageing in humans.

The findings also provide insights on the evolution and future conservation of these endangered tortoises, which developed to great size on isolated islands free from predators but are now threatened by habitat loss, climate change, poaching and invasive species.

Lonesome George is still teaching us lessons, said Dr Adalgisa Caccone, one of the authors of the study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution from Yales Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.

While the repeated failures of efforts to help George reproduce made him symbolic of conservation battles, his DNA lives on in samples taken by Dr Caccone in 2010  two years before he died.

Now Dr Caccone and colleagues are using the information from his genome to conduct comparison studies with other tortoise and animal species to isolate the differences that could underpin healthy ageing.

Science news in pictures Show all 20 1 /20 Science news in pictures Science news in pictures Pluto has 'beating heart' of frozen nitrogen Pluto has a 'beating heart' of frozen nitrogen that is doing strange things to its surface, Nasa has found. The mysterious core seems to be the cause of features on its surface that have fascinated scientists since they were spotted by Nasa's New Horizons mission. "Before New Horizons, everyone thought Pluto was going to be a netball - completely flat, almost no diversity," said Tanguy Bertrand, an astrophysicist and planetary scientist at NASA's Ames Research Center and the lead author on the new study. "But it's completely different. It has a lot of different landscapes and we are trying to understand what's going on there." Getty Science news in pictures Over 400 species discovered this year by Natural History Museum The ancient invertabrate worm-like species rhenopyrgus viviani (pictured) is one of over 400 species previously unknown to science that were discovered by experts at the Natural History Museum this year PA Science news in pictures Jackdaws can identify 'dangerous' humans Jackdaws can identify dangerous humans from listening to each others warning calls, scientists say. The highly social birds will also remember that person if they come near their nests again, according to researchers from the University of Exeter. In the study, a person unknown to the wild jackdaws approached their nest. At the same time scientists played a recording of a warning call (threatening) or contact calls (non-threatening). The next time jackdaws saw this same person, the birds that had previously heard the warning call were defensive and returned to their nests more than twice as quickly on average. Getty Science news in pictures Turtle embryos influence sex by shaking The sex of the turtle is determined by the temperatures at which they are incubated. Warm temperatures favour females. But by wiggling around the egg, embryos can find the Goldilocks Zone which means they are able to shield themselves against extreme thermal conditions and produce a balanced sex ratio, according to the new study published in Current Biology journal Ye et al/Current Biology Science news in pictures Elephant poaching rates drop in Africa African elephant poaching rates have dropped by 60 per cent in six years, an international study has found. It is thought the decline could be associated with the ivory trade ban introduced in China in 2017. Reuters Science news in pictures Ancient four-legged whale discovered in Peru Scientists have identified a four-legged creature with webbed feet to be an ancestor of the whale. Fossils unearthed in Peru have led scientists to conclude that the enormous creatures that traverse the planets oceans today are descended from small hoofed ancestors that lived in south Asia 50 million years ago A. Gennari Science news in pictures Animal with transient anus discovered A scientist has stumbled upon a creature with a transient anus that appears only when it is needed, before vanishing completely. Dr Sidney Tamm of the Marine Biological Laboratory could not initially find any trace of an anus on the species. However, as the animal gets full, a pore opens up to dispose of waste Steven G Johnson Science news in pictures Giant bee spotted Feared extinct, the Wallace's Giant bee has been spotted for the first time in nearly 40 years. An international team of conservationists spotted the bee, that is four times the size of a typical honeybee, on an expedition to a group of Indonesian Islands Clay Bolt Science news in pictures New mammal species found inside crocodile Fossilised bones digested by crocodiles have revealed the existence of three new mammal species that roamed the Cayman Islands 300 years ago. The bones belonged to two large rodent species and a small shrew-like animal New Mexico Museum of Natural History Science news in pictures Fabric that changes according to temperature created Scientists at the University of Maryland have created a fabric that adapts to heat, expanding to allow more heat to escape the body when warm and compacting to retain more heat when cold Faye Levine, University of Maryland Science news in pictures Baby mice tears could be used in pest control A study from the University of Tokyo has found that the tears of baby mice cause female mice to be less interested in the sexual advances of males Getty Science news in pictures Final warning to limit "climate catastrophe" The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has issued a report which projects the impact of a rise in global temperatures of 1.5 degrees Celsius and warns against a higher increase Getty Science news in pictures Nobel prize for evolution chemists The nobel prize for chemistry has been awarded to three chemists working with evolution. Frances Smith is being awarded the prize for her work on directing the evolution of enzymes, while Gregory Winter and George Smith take the prize for their work on phage display of peptides and antibodies Getty/AFP Science news in pictures Nobel prize for laser physicists The nobel prize for physics has been awarded to three physicists working with lasers. Arthur Ashkin (L) was awarded for his "optical tweezers" which use lasers to grab particles, atoms, viruses and other living cells. Donna Strickland and Gerard Mourou were jointly awarded the prize for developing chirped-pulse amplification of lasers Reuters/AP Science news in pictures Discovery of a new species of dinosaur The Ledumahadi Mafube roamed around 200 million years ago in what is now South Africa. Recently discovered by a team of international scientists, it was the largest land animal of its time, weighing 12 tons and standing at 13 feet. In Sesotho, the South African language of the region in which the dinosaur was discovered, its name means "a giant thunderclap at dawn" Viktor Radermacher / SWNS Science news in pictures Birth of a planet Scientists have witnessed the birth of a planet for the first time ever. This spectacular image from the SPHERE instrument on ESO's Very Large Telescope is the first clear image of a planet caught in the very act of formation around the dwarf star PDS 70. The planet stands clearly out, visible as a bright point to the right of the center of the image, which is blacked out by the coronagraph mask used to block the blinding light of the central star. ESO/A. Muller et al Science news in pictures New human organ discovered that was previously missed by scientists Layers long thought to be dense, connective tissue are actually a series of fluid-filled compartments researchers have termed the interstitium. These compartments are found beneath the skin, as well as lining the gut, lungs, blood vessels and muscles, and join together to form a network supported by a mesh of strong, flexible proteins Getty Science news in pictures Previously unknown society lived in Amazon rainforest before Europeans arrived, say archaeologists Working in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso, a team led by archaeologists at the University of Exeter unearthed hundreds of villages hidden in the depths of the rainforest. These excavations included evidence of fortifications and mysterious earthworks called geoglyphs Jose Iriarte Science news in pictures One in 10 people have traces of cocaine or heroin on fingerprints, study finds More than one in 10 people were found to have traces of class A drugs on their fingers by scientists developing a new fingerprint-based drug test. Using sensitive analysis of the chemical composition of sweat, researchers were able to tell the difference between those who had been directly exposed to heroin and cocaine, and those who had encountered it indirectly. Getty Science news in pictures Nasa releases stunning images of Jupiter's great red spot The storm bigger than the Earth, has been swhirling for 350 years. The image's colours have been enhanced after it was sent back to Earth. Pictures by: Tom Momary

One key area of research focused on why cancer is so rare in these creatures, even though larger animals are theoretically at greater risk  a phenomenon that is also seen in taller humans.

The researchers found that the giant tortoise genome has duplicated many of the genes found in other animal species which are dedicated to suppressing tumours.

These genetic instructions are key regulators of cellular processes and division, and can play a variety of roles from triggering the self-destruction of defective cells to preventing rampant duplication.

As animals age, mutations arise throughout the genetic code from exposure to carcinogens, like UV rays, and from simple errors as DNA is copied.

Mutations in a tumour suppressor gene can prevent it fulfilling its function and allow a tumour to begin growing beyond the control of the immune system, but having multiple copies of these genes reduces the risk if any one copy is mutated.

The authors also found similar expansion of the genomic regions linked to DNA repair, metabolism and the immune system, which are not seen in shorter-lived animals. These could allow the giant tortoises to weather infections and survive food shortages, which could also explain their large size and longevity.

Carlos Lopez-Otin, form the University of Oveido, Spain, was another of the studys authors and he said that these features could help improve our understanding of the key hallmarks of old age.

We had previously described nine hallmarks of ageing, and after studying 500 genes on the basis of this classification, we found interesting variants potentially affecting six of those hallmarks in giant tortoises, opening new lines for ageing research, he added.A Nasa spacecraft has arrived at an asteroid the space agency hopes could tell us how life began.

Osiris-Rex will investigate the asteroid, known as Bennu, in an attempt to find where the materials that would one day create humans came from.

The arrival was the end of a more than two year journey over about 80 million miles. Nasa engineers cheered and high-fived  using a special kind of high-five reminiscent of the arm that will one day collect a sample from Bennu  when the spacecraft sent back the message that it had arrived.

Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Show all 30 1 /30 Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Solar Flare An image from Nasa's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) shows a 200,000 mile long solar filament ripping through the Sun's corona in September 2013 Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Nasa Celebrates 50 Years of Spacewalking For 50 years, NASA has been "suiting up" for spacewalking. In this 1984 photograph of the first untethered spacewalk, NASA astronaut Bruce McCandless is in the midst of the first "field" tryout of a nitrogen-propelled backpack device called the Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space A Hubble Cosmic Couple The spectacular cosmic pairing of the star Hen 2-427  more commonly known as WR 124  and the nebula M1-67 which surrounds it ESA/Hubble & NASA Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Veil Nebula Supernova Remnant Nasa's Hubble Space Telescope has unveiled in stunning detail a small section of the Veil Nebula - expanding remains of a massive star that exploded about 8,000 years ago Nasa's most stunning pictures of space The Soyuz TMA-15M rocket launch The Soyuz TMA-15M rocket launches from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on Monday, Nov. 24, 2014, carrying three new astronauts to the International Space Station. It also took caviar, ready for the satellite's inhabitants to celebrate the holidays Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Earth from the ISS From the International Space Station, Expedition 42 Flight Engineer Terry W. Virts took this photograph of the Gulf of Mexico and U.S. Gulf Coast at sunset Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Black Hole Friday Nasa celebrated Black Friday by looking into space instead  sharing pictures of black holes Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space NuSTAR X-rays stream off the sun in this image showing observations from by NASA's Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array, or NuSTAR, overlaid on a picture taken by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Cassiopeia A c A false colour image of Cassiopeia A comprised with data from the Spitzer and Hubble Space Telescopes and the Chandra X-Ray observatory Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Orion Capsule splashes down The Orion capsule jetted off into space before heading back a few hours later  having proved that it can be used, one day, to carry humans to Mars Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Earth Observations From Gemini IV in 1965 This photograph of the Florida Straits and Grand Bahama Bank was taken during the Gemini IV mission during orbit no. 19 in 1965. The Gemini IV crew conducted scientific experiments, including photography of Earth's weather and terrain, for the remainder of their four-day mission following Ed White's historic spacewalk on June 3 Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Frosty slopes of Mars This image of an area on the surface of Mars, approximately 1.5 by 3 kilometers in size, shows frosted gullies on a south-facing slope within a crater. The image was taken by Nasa's HiRISE camera, which is mounted on its Mars Reconaissance Orbiter Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Yellowstone from space NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman shared this image of Yellowstone via his twitter account Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Saturn This near-infrared color image shows a specular reflection, or sunglint, off of a hydrocarbon lake named Kivu Lacus on Saturn's moon Titan Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Worlds Apart Although Mimas and Pandora, shown here, both orbit Saturn, they are very different moons. Pandora, "small" by moon standards (50 miles or 81 kilometers across) is elongated and irregular in shape. Mimas (246 miles or 396 kilometers across), a "medium-sized" moon, formed into a sphere due to self-gravity imposed by its higher mass Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Solar Flare An X1.6 class solar flare flashes in the middle of the sun in this image taken 10 September, captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Large Magellanic Cloud galaxy An image of the Large Magellanic Cloud galaxy seen in infrared light by the Herschel Space Observatory. Regions of space such as this are where new stars are born from a mixture of elements and cosmic dust Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Mars Rover Spirit Nasa's Mars Rover Spirit took the first picture from Spirit since problems with communications began a week earlier. The image shows the robotic arm extended to the rock called Adirondack Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Morning Aurora From the Space Station Nasa astronaut Scott Kelly captured this photograph of the green lights of the aurora from the International Space Station Nasa/Scott Kelly Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Launch of History - Making STS-41G Mission in 1984 The Space Shuttle Challenger launches from Florida at dawn. On this mission, Kathryn Sullivan became the first U.S. woman to perform a spacewalk and Marc Garneau became the first Canadian in space. The crew of seven was the largest to fly on a spacecraft at that time, and STS-41G was the first flight to include two female astronauts Nasa's most stunning pictures of space A Fresh Perspective on an Extraordinary Cluster of Galaxies Galaxy clusters are often described by superlatives. After all, they are huge conglomerations of galaxies, hot gas, and dark matter and represent the largest structures in the Universe held together by gravity Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Hubble Sees a Galactic Sunflower The arrangement of the spiral arms in the galaxy Messier 63, seen here in an image from the Nasa Hubble Space Telescope, recall the pattern at the center of a sunflower ESA/Hubble & NASA Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Pluto image Four images from New Horizons Long Range Reconnaissance Imager (LORRI) were combined with colour data from the Ralph instrument to create this enhanced colour global view of Pluto Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Fresh Crater Near Sirenum Fossae Region of Mars The HiRISE camera aboard Nasa's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter acquired this closeup image of a "fresh" (on a geological scale, though quite old on a human scale) impact crater in the Sirenum Fossae region of Mars. This impact crater appears relatively recent as it has a sharp rim and well-preserved ejecta Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Hubble Peers into the Most Crowded Place in the Milky Way This Nasa Hubble Space Telescope image presents the Arches Cluster, the densest known star cluster in the Milky Way NASA & ESA Nasa's most stunning pictures of space An Astronaut's View from Space Nasa astronaut Reid Wiseman tweeted this photo from the International Space Station on 2 September 2014 Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Giant Landform on Mars On Mars, we can observe four classes of sandy landforms formed by the wind, or aeolian bedforms: ripples, transverse aeolian ridges, dunes, and what are called draa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Expedition 39 Landing A sokol suit helmet can be seen against the window of the Soyuz TMA-11M capsule shortly after the spacecraft landed with Expedition 39 Commander Koichi Wakata of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Soyuz Commander Mikhail Tyurin of Roscosmos, and Flight Engineer Rick Mastracchio of NASA near the town of Zhezkazgan, Kazakhstan (NASA/Bill Ingalls) Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Jupiter's Great Red Spot Viewed by Voyager I Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system and perhaps the most majestic. Vibrant bands of clouds carried by winds that can exceed 400 mph continuously circle the planet's atmosphere Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Chandra Observatory Sees a Heart in the Darkness This Chandra X-Ray Observatory image of the young star cluster NGC 346 highlights a heart-shaped cloud of 8 million-degree Celsius gas in the central region

Bennu is an ancient asteroid, thought to have formed in the very earliest days of the solar system. As such, the rock has been flying around the solar system for more than 4.5 billion years.

Recommended Nasa Curiosity rover spots strange shiny object on Mars surface

But its composition was already established within 10 million years of the formation of the solar system. That means that it can function as something like a time capsule, allowing us to have a look into the distant past of our planets.

It was chosen out of hundreds of potential asteroids for Nasa to hunt down and land on, as they looked to find a world that could tell us the most about what it is like.

It is so old that it may contain ancient organic molecules of the kind that might have helped kick start life on Earth.

Osiris-Rex will investigate that rock  about the size of a big car  before landing on it. After it does, it will scoop up a sample of the world, spending about a year there  and hopefully bring it all the way back down to Earth in 2023.

The spacecraft arrives soon after a Japanese mission dropped a series of small robots onto another asteroid.Traffic was brought to a standstill on Monday morning after a lorry jackknifed and crashed through the central reservation of the M4 near Bristol.

The crash caused 15 mile tailbacks in both directions, as the lorry obstructed both carriageways.

Highways England said it was one of three accidents on the motorway between junction 14 and junction 20, which caused traffic to back up into Wales.

Photographs released by Highways England showed the vehicle after it collided with another lorry on the westbound route around 6am.

The lorry blocked two lanes on the eastbound side of the M4, while a large shipping container which fell off the back blocked two lanes on the westbound side.

Emergency services were working to clear the wreckage but traffic was still slow many hours after the crash.

Motorists were told to expect a wait of up to one hour and 40 minutes on the M4 and advised to take alternative routes.

The first pictures of a lorry that crashed through the central reservation of the M4 have been released (SWNS.com)

There were two other crashes on the motorway on Monday morning, which further contributed to the delays.

At around 7.30am, two vehicles collided at junction 20 for the Almondsbury Interchange and another crash closed two lanes between junction 15 and 14 eastbound near Swindon just after 9am.Far-right activist Milo Yiannopoulos had debts totalling more than $2m (1.6m) during 2018, according to documents put together by his former Australian tour promoters.

The papers show by the end of April this year he owed $1.6m (1.3m) to his own company, $400,000 (314,000) to the right-wing grant-making Mercer family and tens-of-thousands of dollars to his former lawyers, as well as $20,000 (16,000) to Cartier, the luxury jewellery brand.

The documents also reveal the breakdown in relationship between Yiannopoulos and his former promoters in Australia, amid requests for money for his own living expenses, medical bills for himself and his husband, as well as payment for his employees, The Guardian reported.

Gold Coast-based Australian Events Management, run by brothers Ben and Dan Spiller, made several attempts with Yiannopoulos at organising a speaking tour in the country.

But tours planned this year in April, September and December all fell through, with the brothers blaming diary clashes for other speakers as being among the main reasons.

According to The Guardian, in one message Yiannopoulos sent to the company, he said: I am less financially secure, more panicked and stressed, and more miserable than when we started.

In the same message he reportedly said he returned his wedding ring to Cartier to wipe out the debt he had with them.

Despite his negativity in the emails, in a text sent in September, he apparently told the company he was considering moving to Australia to escape the insane political climate of the US.

I am really seriously considering a move to Australia in the next year or two. The political environment in the US is insane. So pulling this off well really matters to me.

Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms Show all 16 1 /16 Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms Farmer Ash Whitney stands atop a tree as he cuts off branches to feed his cattle Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms A cow walks away from a water tank near the town of Tamworth in New South Wales Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms Farmer Scott Cooper drops hay for his cattle next to a dried-up creek on South Park farm Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms Tyre tracks from farmer Jimmie McKeown's truck can be seen on his drought ravaged land near the town of Walgett in New South Wales Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms Dead trees on Scott Cooper's South Park farm Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms Farmer Ash Whitney stands on the back of his truck as he feeds his cattle on his land near the town of Gunnedah in New South Wales Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms An irrigated paddock can be seen next to a ploughed paddock on a farm located on the outskirts of the town of Mudgee in New South Wales Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms A windmill and solar panels on Scott Cooper's South Park farm Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms An old bus used for storing farming equipment stands on farmer Ash Whitney's land near the town of Gunnedah in New South Wales Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms A kangaroo casts a shadow as it drinks from a water tank on Ash Whitney's farm Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms An old Sydney tram sits on Jimmie and May McKeown's land near the town of Walgett in New South Wales Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms Patterns created by a plough can be seen on Ash Whitney's farm Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms Farmer Ash Whitney stands in the middle of a dried-up dam Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms Sheeps eat grain on a farm near Tamworth in New South Wales Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms A road can be seen next to tracks leading to a water tank on Ash Whitney's farm Reuters Australia's drought  the cancer eating away at farms A lone tree stands near a water trough on Jimmie and May McKeown's farm Reuters

Other speakers on the tour were reportedly supposed to be conservative American writer Ann Coulter, English Defence League founder Tommy Robinson, and Australian senator Fraser Anning, who once called for a final solution to immigration in Australia.

Following the cancellation of the tour, Yiannopoulos railed against the Spillers, describing them as insane and incompetent in a YouTube video.

He has since announced he is joining the Deplorable tour of Australia early next year which is scheduled to feature Vice co-founder and chauvinist mens group Proud Boys founder Gavin McInnes alongside EDL-founder Robinson.

Last week it emerged Mr McInnes had been informed he was judged to be of bad character by Australian immigration authorities, and denied a visa.

Robinson, who has previously been convicted of entering the United States illegally using somebody elses passport, has subsequently been denied a visa to visit the country. It is not known whether he has applied for an Australian visa yet.

Two people were arrested and five police officers were injured during a five-hour demonstration at Yiannopouloss Melbourne show last year.

Crowds chanted f*** off Nazis and pepper spray was used by police after a fight broke out between protesters and rocks were thrown at a police van.

According to The Guardian, Yiannopoulos said in an email the documents detailing debts referred to company debts, not personal.

Im doing fine and bringing in $40k US a month, he said.

He described the Spiller brothers as crooks and clowns and said: These documents are not court filings. They are a dox.

 Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events

The Spillers said in a statement on Friday they had commenced legal action for the return of funds from Yiannopoulos.

We negotiated and entered into our contract with Milo in good faith. Unfortunately, Milos ongoing financial demands outside the terms of our agreement resulted in us making the very difficult and disappointing decision to cancel the tour, the statement said.

Milo was provided everything according to his contract [and then some] and we have reluctantly commenced legal proceedings to ensure the return of funds as per the contract.Workers at fashion brand Ted Baker are calling for a halt to a culture of forced hugging by the company boss, claiming it amounts to harassment that is going unchallenged.

Staff members have set up a petition on campaign website Organise, accusing founder and chief executive Ray Kelvin of inappropriate language and behaviour.

The petition also accuses Mr Kelvin, 62, of making sexual innuendos at staff and stroking peoples necks.

More than 200 employees have accused Kelvin of inappropriate comments and behaviour (Getty)

It alleges: He took off his shirt on one occasion and talked about his sex life. So many people have left the business due to harassment, whether that be verbal, physical or sexual.

The workers claim the company has ignored complaints. It is part of a culture that leaves harassment unchallenged, the petition says, adding: There are a lot of really positive things about working at Ted Baker but theyre often overshadowed by the hugging and inappropriate touching and comments.

The company says hugs are part of company culture but are not insisted upon.

The petition writer says: Ive seen the CEO ask young female members of staff to sit on his knee, cuddle him or let him massage their ears. I went to HR with a complaint and was told thats just what Rays like.

Ray greets many people he meets with a hug, be it a shareholder, investor, supplier, partner, customer or colleague Ted Baker

Please set up a way of reporting harassment to an independent, external body  HR has done nothing with the reports of harassment to date.

Millionaire Mr Kelvin, who opened his first store called Ted Baker (named after a fictitious alter ego) in 1988, is one of Britains most successful retail tycoons. The firm now has 544 fashion outlets worldwide.

He is worth 522m, according to the Sunday Times Rich List.

Earlier this year the accounting watchdog fined KPMG 3m after the firm admitted misconduct in its audits of Ted Baker in 2013 and 2014.

The company said the matters raised in the petition were at odds with the values of our business and those of our CEO and it promised a thorough independent investigation.

It said in a statement: Ted Baker has always placed great importance on the companys culture and owes everything to the commitment of our people. It is critically important to us that every member of our staff feels valued and respected at work.

Ray greets many people he meets with a hug, be it a shareholder, investor, supplier, partner, customer or colleague. Hugs have become part of Ted Bakers culture, but are absolutely not insisted upon.

 Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events

Having very recently been made aware of the petition, we are now in dialogue with Organise to understand the details and nature of the claims.

The statement added that Ted Baker had clear and robust HR policies to provide employees with a wide range of reporting options for issues, including a completely confidential and anonymous 24/7 helpline.

The company said it took the claims very seriously and after an investigation would carefully consider the content and recommendations of that report.Armed police officers have shot a man during a pre-planned operation in Wimbledon.

The man was wounded at around 8.10am on Monday in Lacock Close.

He was taken to hospital shortly afterwards and officers are awaiting news of his condition.

The shooting occurred during an operation carried out by the Metropolitan Police's Flying Squad branch, who were assisted by armed firearms officers.

A number of roads in the area have been closed and a forensic site has also been set up.

 Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events

The Independent Office for Police Conduct has launched an investigation into the shooting.

A second man was arrested during the incident, for conspiracy to rob.Theresa May's top Brexit adviser has privately warned her that a key element of her exit blueprint would be a "bad outcome" for the UK.

Oliver Robbins, who led the behind-the-scenes talks with Brussels, reportedly told the prime minister that there was no legal guarantee that Britain could withdraw from the "backstop", which aims to prevent a hard border in Ireland if future trade talks fail.

His comments will enrage Brexiteers, who fear the plan will keep Britain closely tied to the EU after leaving the bloc, and will heap pressure on the prime minister as she battles to save her Brexit deal ahead of a Commons showdown on December 11.

Recommended Boris joins opposition parties to demand Brexit legal advice released

In a letter to the prime minister, obtained by the Daily Telegraph, Mr Robbins said: "We should not forget that the backstop world, even with a UK-EU customs union, is a bad outcome with regulatory controls needed somewhere between GB and NI, serious and visible frictions and process between GB and the EU, and no security co-operation provided for."

Mr Robbins is said to have argued that extending the transition period would offer a more "cast iron escape route" than entering into the backstop, which will commence in December 2020, if a better solution cannot be found.

The senior civil servant faces a grilling by MPs on Monday, along with the newly-appointed Brexit secretary, Stephen Barclay, who is making his first appearance before the Brexit select committee.

The leak will also intensify demands for ministers to publish the full legal advice on the Brexit deal to avoid a major constitutional row.

Geoffrey Cox, the attorney general, will attempt to head off a threat by opposition parties to trigger contempt proceedings against the government over its refusal to publish the advice.

Cross-party MPs say they need to see the full advice - including Mr Cox's legal opinion - before they vote on the Brexit deal next week.

The government was ordered to publish the report after choosing not to oppose an arcane procedure, known as a humble address, over fears of an embarrassing Commons defeat.

Labour says it has the support of Ms May's DUP allies, as well as the SNP and the Liberal Democrats, while many Tory MPs are also demanding to see the advice.

Meanwhile, ex-foreign secretary Boris Johnson said it was a "scandal" that ministers were withholding the full advice.

"It is outrageous that the public should be prevented from knowing the full legal implications of this appalling deal - when it is their rights, their freedoms, their hard-won suffrage, that are about to be bartered away," he said.

Sir Keir Starmer, the shadow Brexit secretary, said the government was setting itself on a "collision course" with parliament, adding: "If it is now moving into the territory of ignoring parliament altogether and breaching an order of parliament, then we're getting to very, very deep water."

Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal Show all 13 1 /13 Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal Esther McVey Britain's Work and Pensions Secretary Esther McVey arrives to attend the weekly meeting of the cabinet at 10 Downing Street in London. - Britain's Work and Pensions Secretary Esther McVey resigned from the cabinet over draft Brexit deal AFP/Getty Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal PA Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal Dominic Raab British Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab give a press conference at the end of the final round of talks in Brexit negotiations at the European Commission in Brussels, Belgium EPA Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal PA Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal Rehman Chrishti Vice Chairman of the Conservative Party Rehman Chrishti tendered his resignation letter this afternoon PA Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal Anne-Marie Trevelyan Parliamentary private secretary in the Department of Education Anne-Marie Trevelyan resigned stating that she cannot support the deal Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal PA Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal Sam Gyimah Universities minister Sam Gyimah resigned on November 30, claiming the government's decision to pull out of the EU's Galileo satellite navigation system as a deciding factor PA Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal Shailesh Vara Shailesh Vara who has quit as Minister of State for Northern Ireland, saying he cannot support Theresa May's Brexit agreement, which he said "leaves the UK in a halfway house with no time limit on when we will finally be a sovereign nation" PA Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal Suella Braverman Brexit minister Suella Braverman has resigned, stating It is not what the British people, or my constituents, voted for in 2016. Cabinet ministers resign over Brexit deal Ranil Jayawardena Parliamentary private secretary to the ministry of justice Ranil Jayawardena resigned as he could not back the deal "in good conscience"

Anyone found in contempt of parliament can be expelled from the House. However it is more likely that a finding against the government would serve to weaken the prime minister's authority.

The row comes as MPs were gearing up for an explosive five-day debate on the Brexit deal, which will culminate in a meaningful vote on December 11 that could determine the future of Ms May and her government.

Labour has vowed to table a no-confidence motion if the deal is voted down, in an attempt to force the government to hold a general election.

The DUP is also considering abandoning the government if there was a confidence vote, despite their "confidence and supply" agreement which props up Ms May's administration.Theresa May is facing a full-blown constitutional crisis after House of Commons Speaker John Bercow ruled that there is "an arguable case" her government acted in contempt of Parliament.

The Speaker made the extraordinary statement in response to a letter from the other main political parties accusing the government of ignoring the will of Parliament in relation to the legal advice the Cabinet has received on Brexit.

In a highly unusual sequence of events, Labour, the SNP, the Liberal Democrats, Plaid Cymru and the Green Party joined forces to ask Mr Bercow to launch contempt proceedings after ministers refused to publish the full legal advice they had been given on Ms May's proposed exit deal.

In response, the Speaker granted an urgent debate on the issue, to take place on Tuesday. If passed, the motion could result in a senior government minister being suspended from the Commons.

Crucially, the DUP  whose votes Ms May relies on to maintain her governing majority  also backed the cross-party letter, making it likely that the motion alleging contempt will be passed unless the government backs down.

The dramatic move comes after ministers refused to obey a binding Commons vote saying they should publish all of the legal advice they have received on Britain's withdrawal from the EU.

Last month, the Commons unanimously passed a Labour motion calling for the release of any legal advice in full that had provided to ministers on the proposed withdrawal agreement and framework for the future EU-UK relationship.

However, the government responded on Monday by publishing only a 43-page summary of the advice and taking the unusual step of sending the attorney general, Geoffrey Cox, to the Commons to make a statement and answer questions from MPs.

The full legal advice given to ministers is understood to run to several thousand pages.

In a letter to Mr Bercow, the opposition parties and the DUP said MPs should be given a vote at the earliest opportunity on a motion accusing the government of contempt.

"We are writing to request that you consider giving precedence to a motion being placed before the House of Commons that the government has held Parliament in contempt," the letter said.

A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Show all 65 1 /65 A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit An estimated 700,000 people marched through London to demand a final say on the withdrawal agreement Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Red smoke from a canister hangs in the air as around 100,000 demonstrators march through London during a People's Vote anti-brexit demonstration savings banners and placards Anti-Brexit People's Vote March for the Future in London Rex A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Mayor of London Sadiq Khan takes part in the People's Vote March for the Future in London, a march and rally in support of a second EU referendum. PA A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Final Say campaigners take part in the peoples vote march for the future in London 20/10/2018 Protesters wearing final Say shirts and holding placards Angela Christofilou A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit MP Chuka Umunna (left) and MP Vince Cable (right) as MP Anna Soubry (centre) addresses Anti-Brexit campaigners at a rally after the People's Vote March for the Future in London, a march and rally in support of a second EU referendum. PA A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit A Peoples Vote march attendee calls for a Final Say Angela Christofilou A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Demonstrators with banners 'We're with EU' during the People's Vote March for the Future in London, Britain, 20 October 2018. Reports state that the 'March for the Future' is to be led by a column of young people and call for a Peopleas Vote on the Brexit deal. After marching through central London, there will be a rally on stage in Parliament Square, including speeches from Mayor of London Sadiq Khan. EPA A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Protesters at Londons march for the future in October The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Editor of The Independent Christian Broughton speaks to demonstrators in Parliament Sqaure after they take part in a march calling for a People's Vote on the final Brexit deal, in central London on October 20, 2018. - Britons dreading life outside Europe gathered from all corners of the UK to London on Saturday to try to stop their country's looming breakup with the EU. AFP/Getty A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit A poster at the March for the Future in October The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Anti-Brexit campaigners take part in the People's Vote March for the Future in London, a march and rally in support of a second EU referendum. PA A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Final Say campaigners take part in the peoples vote march for the future in London 20/10/2018 Angela Christofilou A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Anti-Brexit campaigners take part in the People's Vote March for the Future in London, a march and rally in support of a second EU referendum. PA A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Demonstrators hold placards as they take part in a march calling for a People's Vote on the final Brexit deal, in central London on October 20, 2018. - Britons dreading life outside Europe gathered from all corners of the UK to London on Saturday to try to stop their country's looming breakup with the EU. AFP/Getty A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Final Say campaigners take part in the peoples vote march for the future in London 20/10/2018 campaigner wrapped in EU flag Angela Christofilou A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Angela Christofilou/The Independent A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Final Say campaigners take part in the peoples vote march for the future in London 20/10/2018 Angela Christofilou A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Demonstrators pass Trafalgar Square as they take part in a march calling for a People's Vote on the final Brexit deal, in central London on October 20, 2018. - Britons dreading life outside Europe gathered from all corners of the UK to London on Saturday to try to stop their country's looming breakup with the EU. AFP/Getty A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Demonstrators wave Union and European flags and hold up placards as they pass Trafalgar Square, taking part in a march calling for a People's Vote on the final Brexit deal, in central London on October 20, 2018. - Britons dreading life outside Europe gathered from all corners of the UK to London on Saturday to try to stop their country's looming breakup with the EU. AFP/Getty A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Demonstrators hold placards as they take part in a march calling for a People's Vote on the final Brexit deal, in central London on October 20, 2018. - Britons dreading life outside Europe gathered from all corners of the UK to London on Saturday to try to stop their country's looming breakup with the EU. AFP/Getty A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit A demonstrator holds a message during a march calling for a People's Vote on the final Brexit deal, in central London on October 20, 2018. - Britons dreading life outside Europe gathered from all corners of the UK to London on Saturday to try to stop their country's looming breakup with the EU. AFP/Getty A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Anti-Brexit campaigners take part in the People's Vote March for the Future in London, a march and rally in support of a second EU referendum. PA A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Demonstrators take part in the 'People's Vote March for the Future,' in central London, Britain, 20 October 2018. Reports state that the 'March for the Future' is to be led by a column of young people and call for a Peopleas Vote on the Brexit deal. After marching through central London, there will be a rally on stage in Parliament Square, including speeches from Mayor of London Sadiq Khan EPA A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit A protester brandishes an Independent t-shirt during the Brexit March Angela Christofilou A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Anti-Brexit campaigners take part in the People's Vote March for the Future in London, a march and rally in support of a second EU referendum PA A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Tens of thousands of people take part in People's Vote March for the Future in central London. The march organised by the People's Vote campaign is led by young people calling for a People's Vote on the Brexit deal Rex A historic moment: thousands march to demand Final Say on Brexit Anti-Brexit campaigners take part in the People's Vote March for the Future in London, a march and rally in support of a second EU referendum PA

Referring to the motion passed last month, they wrote: "Neither a 'reasoned position statement' nor a document 'setting out the governments legal position' constitute the final and full advice provided by the attorney general to the Cabinet. It does not comply with a motion of the House that you have ruled to be effective. It was the concession offered by the government during the debate, but it was rejected  and ministers made no attempt to amend or oppose the motion for debate.

"It is apparent to us  and we believe the overwhelming majority of the House  that the information released today does not constitute the final and full advice provided by the attorney general to the Cabinet. It does not comply with a motion of the House that you have ruled to be effective.

"We would now ask that you consider giving the House of Commons the opportunity to debate and consider this matter of contempt at the earliest opportunity."

Labour's shadow Brexit secretary, Sir Keir Starmer, said: "The government has failed to publish the attorney general's full and final legal advice to the Cabinet, as ordered by Parliament. We have therefore been left with no option but to write to the Speaker of the House of Commons to ask him to launch proceedings of contempt.

Mr Bercow promised to give the letter his immediate attention and later told the Commons: "I have considered the matter carefully and I am satisfied that there is an arguable case that a contempt has been committed.

"I am therefore giving precedence to a motion to be tabled tonight, before the House rises, and to be taken as first business tomorrow. It will then be entirely for the House to decide on that motion."

MPs found to be in contempt of Parliament face the threat of being suspended or even expelled from the Commons. The motion to be debated on Tuesday is likely to focus on the actions of Geoffrey Cox, the attorney general, and David Lidington, Ms May's deputy, and whether they should be referred to Parliament's Privileges Committee.

As proceedings in the Commons drew to a close on Monday, Tory ministers appeared to be using delaying tactics to give the government time to table an amendment to the contempt motion. Foreign Office minister Alan Duncan spoke for 48 minutes during an adjournment debate, when ministers would usually be expected to speak for 15 minutes.

 Theresa May on Brexit: 'I've got a deal that delivers what people voted for'

Ministers have insisted that the government's legal advice must remain private and argued that publishing it would set a dangerous precedent. Traditionally, expert legal opinion given to ministers has not been made public except in exceptional circumstances.

Giving evidence to the Commons Brexit committee on Monday, the new Brexit secretary, Stephen Barclay, said: "There are well-established conventions in terms of legal advice."

Ms May's official spokesman insisted the document published by the government was in line with the guarantees it had given to MPs.

He said: "It is a full-reasoned position statement as David Lidington set out in the House a few weeks ago," he said.

"We are meeting the commitments [Mr Lidington] made in the House of Commons when this matter was debated."

Addressing MPs later in the day, Mr Cox insisted it would not be appropriate to publish his advice in full.

The attorney general said he was convinced it would be contrary to the national interest to publish the full advice at a time when negotiations with the EU are ongoing.

"I would not take this decision if I did not feel [releasing the full advice] was contrary to all of our interests," he said.

"I am truly sorry that I am not in a position to disclose either the fact or the content of my advice, but I am doing so not to frustrate the legitimate interests of the members opposite or members behind me, but rather and only because I do believe it's against the public interest at a time when we're negotiating and at a time when these involve advice to a Cabinet which must be kept, for reasons of fundamental principle, confidential."

But responding for Labour, shadow solicitor general Nick Thomas-Symonds told the Commons it was unacceptable that ministers were refusing to publish Mr Cox's advice in full.

He said: "On 13 November in this House, the shadow Brexit secretary [Sir Keir] and I were both very clear that what was sought was the final and full advice provided by the attorney general to Cabinet on any completed withdrawal agreement, made available to all MPs in good time for the vote on the deal.

"Offers short of that, including the attorney general's statement today and a summary made by the government, were rejected, and the House passed the motion unanimously."

Raising a point of order with Mr Bercow, he said: "It is clear to me that the government has taken an unprecedented decision not to comply with the unanimous and binding decision of his House. Instead, they seem to be playing for time, hoping that contempt proceedings take longer than the timetable for the meaningful vote, and we as a House cannot allow this to happen."

Conservative Brexiteers and the DUP joined the opposition parties in calling for the full advice to be published.

DUP MP Nigel Dodds said: "As other honourable members have said, we need to see the actual legal advice as requested by this House, and that must happen."

And senior Tory Eurosceptic Sir Bill Cash said there had been five occasions in the 40 years when the attorney general's full advice legal advice to ministers had been made public.

Mr Cox "can and should" consent to his guidance being published in full, he said.

The attorney general's advice to the Cabinet is reported to make clear that the UK could end up stuck in the customs backstop "indefinitely".

He denied this when asked by MPs but admitted that the protocol, if it came into force, would continue to apply in international law unless and until it was superseded by the intended subsequent agreement that avoided the need for a hard border in Northern Ireland.

He said: "There is therefore no unilateral right for either party to terminate this arrangement. This means that if no superseding agreement can be reached within the implementation period, the protocol would be activated and in international law would subsist, even if negotiations had broken down.

"How likely that is to happen is a political question, to which the answer will no doubt depend partly on the extent to which it is in either party's interests to remain indefinitely within its arrangements."

Mr Cox said the customs backstop would be highly vulnerable to a legal challenge in European courts  a fact he said would put pressure on the EU to agree a deal with the UK on the future relationship.Conservative MPs have attacked the government after a paper setting out official legal advice on Theresa Mays Brexit deal, confirmed Britain cannot leave the arrangement it creates without the EUs agreement.

The command paper which summarises the advice given to the cabinet from the attorney general, says that the controversial Irish backstop will apply unless and until it is superseded by alternative arrangements agreed between Brussels and London.

A further section of the document states clearly that it is not possible under international law for the UK to escape the withdrawal agreement unilaterally once it is in force.

The summary has been released by the government in an attempt to assuage a motion passed by the Commons that the full legal advice relating to Ms Mays deal be published  something ministers have refused to do.

But even in the summary there are elements that Brexiteers criticised, believing that it has confirmed their worst fears about the deal.

Nadine Dorries MP said: No MP with a shred of respect for the democratic process can support this deal.

Speaking to her followers on Twitter she added: We now know as a result of the legal advice, that those being told it can all be changed later, we just need to get the deal over the line, are being lied to. We cannot change anything without breaking the law and we Brits dont do that. We play by the rules.

Jacob Rees-Mogg, who chairs the anti-Brexit European Research Group, said the paper exposes inaccurate government spin on the proposed Brexit deal.

 Theresa May says she will still have job in two weeks time following Brexit deal negotiations

The most controversial issue in the withdrawal agreement is over the backstop agreement, to set out what happens to keep the Irish border open if no trade deal is secured by the end of the Brexit transition period in December 2020.

Under the plan the whole UK would stay in a customs union, but the legal document released on Monday confirms that this set up would continue to apply unless and until it is superseded by a subsequent agreement.

It later goes on: The agreement does not contain any provision on its termination.

In the absence of such a provision, it is not possible under international law for a party to withdraw from the agreement unilaterally.

The advice also confirms that the UK faces making additional payments to Brussels if the Brexit transition period is extended.

Under the terms of the withdrawal agreement it is due to run until the end of December 2020 but can be extended by up to two years if both sides agree.

The advice says that discussions on any extension would involve reaching further agreement on the UKs financial contribution.Sajid Javids decision to not publish his immigration white paper before the meaningful vote on Theresa Mays Brexit deal has been described as shocking and unacceptable by MPs.

The home secretary said it was very unlikely MPs would see the governments post-Brexit immigration plans ahead of the crucial vote on the withdrawal agreement on 11 December.

The government had not set a publication date for the white paper but had previously said it would be made available in December.

Its unlikely, actually very unlikely, to be published before the vote. It will be published soon, Mr Javid said on BBC Radio 4s Today programme.

The decision will add to the already growing speculation over how many Tory MPs will vote against Ms Mays deal, with some suggesting it could be as high as 100.

Mr Javids announcement reflects the divisions on immigration within the cabinet, with Ms May pushing for a curb on low-skilled immigration while the chancellor, Philip Hammond, and the business secretary, Greg Clark, are pushing against the proposals.

The news MPs would not see the governments immigration plans before the meaningful vote prompted outrage, with many taking to social media to express their concerns.

Brexit casualties Show all 10 1 /10 Brexit casualties Brexit casualties Andrea Jenkyns - Resigned from Parliamentary Private Secretary at the ministry for housing, communities and local government role May 2018 - The Morley and Outwood MP said: We want to see a new relationship with Europe, with a new model not enjoyed by other countries  nothing that leaves us half-in, half-out. And in order to achieve this, we need to leave the customs union. Ms Jenkyns also said she wished to dedicate more of her time to Parliaments influential Exiting the European Union select committee, after a series of unbalanced reports produced by MPs PA Brexit casualties David Davis - Resigned from Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union role July 2018 - quit following a major row with May over her plans for post-Brexit relations with the EU. Davis resignation letter said: As you know there have been a significant number of occasions in the last year or so on which I have disagreed with the Number 10 policy line, ranging from accepting the [European] Commissions sequencing of negotiations, through to the language on Northern Ireland in the December Joint Report. At each stage I have accepted collective responsibility because it is part of my task to find workable compromises, and because I considered it was still possible to deliver on the mandate of the referendum, and on our manifesto commitment to leave the Customs Union and the Single Market. I am afraid that I think the current trend of policy and tactics is making that look less and less likely. He went on to argue that the general direction of Ms Mays policies would leave the UK in at best a weak negotiating position, and possibly an inescapable one. AFP/Getty Brexit casualties Steve Baker - Resigned from Minister at the Department for Exiting the European Union role July 2018 - Mr Baker, a key Tory figure in the Leave campaign, was David Daviss main lieutenant at Dexeu, and was hailed as courageous and principled by other Brexiteer Tories as he also left. Reuters Brexit casualties Boris Johnson - Resigned from Foreign Secretary role July 2018 - resigned over May's Chequers plan. In his resignation letter to the prime minister, Mr Johnson said: "On Friday, I acknowledged that my side of the argument were too few to prevail and congratulated you on at least reaching a Cabinet decision on the way forward. "As I said then, the government now has a song to sing. "The trouble is that I have practised the words over the weekend and find that they stick in the throat." Reuters Brexit casualties Conor Burns - Resigned from Parliamentary Private Secretary to Foreign Secretary role July 2018 - A Brexit supporter who worked alongside Boris Johnson stated in his resignation letter: I've decided it's time to have greater freedom. I want to see the referendum result respected. And there are other areas of policy I want to speak more openly on. Rex Brexit casualties Chris Green - Resigned from Department for Transport role July 2018 - The Bolton West MP said: "Parliament overwhelmingly decided to give the decision of whether to leave or remain in the European Union to the British people and they made an unambiguous decision that we ought to leave. "I have always understood the idea in 'Brexit means Brexit' is that the final deal should be clear to me and my constituents - that we have, in no uncertain terms, left the European Union. Twitter Ads info and privacy "The direction the negotiations had been taking have suggested that we would not really leave the EU and the conclusion and statements following the Chequers summit confirmed my fears. "I recognise that delivering Brexit is challenging, however I had hoped at tonight's meeting that there would be some certainty that my fears were unfounded but, instead, they have been confirmed. "I have been grateful for the opportunity to serve as Parliamentary Private Secretary and it is with regret that I offer my resignation with immediate effect." PA Brexit casualties Maria Caulfield - Resigned from Conservative Party vice-chair for women role July 2018 - resigned over May's Chequers plan. Lewes MP warned that the direction of travel did not fully embrace the opportunities that Brexit can provide. Ms Caulfield said in her letter to the PM: The policy may assuage vested interests, but the voters will find out and their representatives will be found out. This policy will be bad for our country and bad for the party. The direct consequences of that will be prime minister Corbyn. PA Brexit casualties Ben Bradley - Resigned from Conservative Party vice-chair for young people role July 2018 - resigned over May's Chequers plan. The Mansfield MP said: I admit that I voted to Remain in that ballot. What has swayed me over the last two years to fully back the Brexit vision is the immense opportunities that are available from global trade, and for the ability for Britain to be an outward looking nation in control of our own destiny once again. I fear that this agreement at Chequers damages those opportunities; that being tied to EU regulations, and the EU tying our hands when seeking to make new trade agreements, will be the worst of all worlds if we do not deliver Brexit in spirit as well as in name, then we are handing Jeremy Corbyn the keys to No10. PA Brexit casualties Robert Courts - Resigned from Parliamentary Private Secretary role July 2018 - resigned over May's Chequers plan. MP Mr Courts said: I have taken a very difficult decision to resign my position as [parliamentary private secretary] to express discontent with the Chequers [plans] in votes tomorrow. I had to think who I wanted to see in the mirror for the rest of my life. I cannot tell the people of Woxon that I support the proposals in their current form. Getty Brexit casualties Scott Mann - Resigned from Parliamentary Private Secretary role July 2018 - resigned over May's Chequers plan. "I fear elements of the Brexit white paper will inevitably put me in direct conflict with the views expressed by a large section of my constituents. I am not prepared to compromise their wishes to deliver a watered-down Brexit. "The residents of North Cornwall made it very clear that they wish to have control over our fishery, our agricultural policy, our money, our laws and our borders. I will evaluate those principles against the Brexit white paper and ensure that I vote in line with their wishes." Rex

Sir Edward Davey, the Liberal Democrat MP for Kingston and Surbiton, said the details were required for any vote to be meaningful.

Brexit and immigration: shocking and unacceptable for home secretary, Sajid Javid, to admit the immigration white paper will not be published before the Brexit vote, he said.

For a meaningful vote, MPs need to know what might happen to immigration if we leave.

Luciana Berger, the Labour MP for Liverpool Wavertree, said it added to the list of reasons for a Final Say referendum.

Yet more government policy that wont be revealed until after our vote on the prime ministers withdrawal agreement. Its not good enough. Another reason to add to the growing list for a peoples vote, Ms Berger said on Twitter.

Chris Green, the Conservative MP for Bolton West, said Mr Javids decision was odd.

A healthy democracy, our laws, our money and our trade are key parts of why people chose to leave the EU. So was controlling our borders but the government is publishing the immigration White Paper after the Withdrawal vote. It seems a little odd, he tweeted.Ukip is being turned into an anti-Islamic party that could soon have Tommy Robinson as one of its leaders, according to alarmed defectors.

Three MEPs have resigned in a little over two months, amid infighting over leader Gerard Battens shift towards the far right.

Robinson is currently banned from becoming a member by party rules, but has been inciting his supporters to join Ukip so they can influence its policies.

The national executive committee (NEC) delayed a potential ballot on Robinsons membership until after Brexit in March, but Mr Batten responded by making him an adviser on grooming gangs and prisons.

Defectors believe Mr Batten will be further emboldened by surviving a vote of no confidence mounted by supporters of former leader Nigel Farage on Sunday.

Suzanne Evans, Ukips former deputy chair, said as she resigned that the result was the end of the road.

She described being increasingly alarmed in recent months by the "perverse direction" in which Mr Batten was taking Ukip, and saw the vote as the partys last hope.

Ms Evans accused the NEC and remaining MEPs of turning a blind eye to the "obvious attempts by Gerard and Robinson to orchestrate a Momentum-style takeover.

Tommy Robinson has capitalised on a surge of support since being jailed in May (AFP/Getty)

I would never have joined Ukip as it stands today, obsessed as it is with becoming a successor to the British National Party (BNP) and the English Defence League (EDL), and putting an increasingly hostile and vicious focus on attacking the Muslim community en masse, she said.

A spokesperson for Ukip said Mr Batten was disappointed in Ms Evanss decision.

However, he must weigh up the loss of a few individual members such as Ms Evans with the more than 8,000 new members who have joined the party since he became leader, a statement said.

Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, founded the EDL in 2009 but left four years later.

Recommended Ukip leader calls Muhammad a paedophile at Tommy Robinson rally

The anti-Islam activist now styles himself as an independent reporter and has capitalised on a surge of publicity over his imprisonment earlier this year to forge political ties across Europe, the US and Australia.

Mr Batten has appeared at several Free Tommy protests  including one where Batten labelled the prophet Muhammed a paedophile  and has repeatedly called Islam a death cult.

He has been pushing for Robinson to be allowed to join Ukip, but the party's rules exclude former members of the BNP and EDL.

Mr Batten said Robinson did not need to be a member to become his adviser, amid outrage last month, and the pair would speak at a Brexit betrayal march in London on Sunday.

Robinson has called on the more than one million people who follow his Facebook page to join Ukip and has been directing them to its registration page.

One post from 27 November was commented on by hundreds of supporters who claimed they had joined because of Robinson.

By joining we can influence the party, Robinson told them. Members that join with similar views shape the direction.

The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Show all 27 1 /27 The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Protesters scuffle with police at the junction of Whitehall and The Mall during a 'Free Tommy Robinson' protest AFP/Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures A protester wearing a mask of US president Donald Trump was among thousands of supporters of far-right activist and former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson staging a protest outside Downing Street in central London. Rex Features The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures A man empties his beer over passing police AFP/Getty The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Reuters The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Dutch far-right opposition leader Geert Wilders addresses thousands of supporters Rex Features The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Demonstrators clash with police Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Rex The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Protesters scuffle with police on Whitehall during a 'Free Tommy Robinson' protest on 9 June AFP/Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Police watch supporters of Tommy Robinson PA The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures People take part in a support rally for Tommy Robinson Rex Features The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Supporters of far-right spokesman Tommy Robinson demonstrate in Trafalgar square AFP/Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Protesters scuffle with police at the junction of Whitehall and The Mall during a 'Free Tommy Robinson' protest on 9 June AFP/Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures A man climbs on one of the lions in Trafalgar Square Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Protesters scuffle with police at the junction of Whitehall and The Mall AFP/Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Police clear supporters PA The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Beer is thrown as demonstrators clash with police Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Demonstrators clash with police Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Demonstrators clash with police Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Protesters scuffle with police AFP/Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Demonstrators clash with police Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Demonstrators clash with police Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Demonstrators clash with police Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Demonstrators clash with police Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Supporters of English Defence League (EDL) founder Tommy Robinson clash with the police in Whitehall, London on 9 June Reuters The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures An injured police officer during a 'Free Tommy Robinson' protest in London on 9 June AFP/Getty The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Protesters take over a sight-seeing bus on at the junction of Whitehall and The Mall during a 'Free Tommy Robinson' protest on 9 June AFP/Getty Images The Tommy Robinson protest: in pictures Police watch supporters of Tommy Robinson during their protest in Trafalgar Square PA

He assured them that as the EDL had no formal membership, it was impossible to prove, and claimed that followers would be able to vote him into Ukip in a potential ballot in March.

One jubilant Robinson supporter wrote: You will be in charge one day and Ill be there.

An MEP who quit Ukip in October told The Independent he feared that Mr Batten was keeping the seat warm for Robinson.

Bill Etheridge said the current leader, aged 64, was not getting any younger and had previously voiced an intention to retire.

Recommended Ukip to debate inviting Tommy Robinson to join party

The fact Robinson has been taken on as an adviser without even being a member would suggest he is going to have a senior role, he said.

He will be involved in the clique around Gerard and certainly I would have thought in time he would have ambitions to taking on the leadership  I think Mr Batten might be keeping the seat warm.

William Dartmouth, a hereditary peer and MEP who quit Ukip in September, raised similar concerns.

Mr Batten is setting Robinson up to be the leader, he told The Independent. Resigning members have been replaced by people who support Mr Robinson and his ilk.

This has entirely been led by Mr Batten and he's got no mandate to do it. His conduct is an utter disgrace.

Mr Batten was appointed interim leader of Ukip in February, after predecessor Henry Bolton was ousted over his affair with a model who made racist comments about Meghan Markle and later apologised.

He stood on a ticket of continuity and there was no election, Lord Dartmouth said.

Patrick O'Flynn was the third MEP to resign over the direction of Ukip (Getty Images)

Since then he has completely hijacked Ukip and turned it into an anti-Islamic party.

Asked whether Ukip was in the grip of an identity crisis following the EU referendum, the MEP insisted it still had a role to play in an increasingly uncertain Brexit.

Lord Dartmouth claimed that Mr Battens views on Islam were previously not known among the membership and that he rarely gave speeches until his appointment.

Mr Etheridge said he had intended to stand as leader himself but was told by Mr Batten that he would be leasder for a year "and entirely focus on Brexit.

Recommended Ukip suspends members after masked group storms socialist bookshop

From that point on his focus became more and more the issues around Tommy Robinson and multiculturalism, he said.

He was approached by several people who asked him to keep to the remit of Brexit, but he just carried on.

He marginalised many of us who had been Farage supporters and made it clear he was taking the party in his own direction.

Mr Etheridge said figures he saw before his resignation showed that party membership has risen, but he believed that those with more moderate views had been leaving in droves.

When Gerard goes round saying Islam is a death cult, he doesnt leave anyone in doubt of his stance, he said.

The membership has changed dramatically in its character and style, as has the direction of the party.

Speakers at Ukips party conference in September included right-wing bloggers recently welcomed as members such as Mark Meechan (Count Dankula), who is best-known for being prosecuted over a video showing a pug performing Nazi salutes.

Tommy Robinson supported Meechan at Airdrie Sheriff Court (PA)

An interim manifesto presented at the event included proposals to create Muslim-only prisons and repeal hate crime laws.

Mr Etheridge, who has joined the Libertarian Party, said the manifesto was not discussed with anyone  "apart from a small circle of Gerards friends  and shocked other members.

I tried to argue the case and rally support around people nudging him back in the right direction, but the ferocity of support for Gerard from new members made it impossible to change, he said.

Patrick OFlynn, another MEP who quit Ukip last week, said he had also tried to persuade Mr Batten to maintain his focus on Brexit and abandon an apparent and growing fixation with Robinson.

Instead he has done the opposite, he said in his resignation statement.

Defectors acknowledge that there has always been a school of nationalism within Ukip but insisted the party had a broad membership united around opposition to the EU, and took active steps to keep far-right extremists out.

They pointed to the 2017 rejection of the virulently anti-Islam leadership candidate Anne Marie Waters and numerous expulsions of councillors over their views.

Mr Etheridge said Mr Batten appeared to have saved Ukip temporarily from financial ruin and secured a small but significant net membership increase.

By calling people to rally round his very strong and extreme views on certain matters, he will have a strong membership, but hell also frighten off the general public who might have been inclined towards Ukip in the past, he warned.

Ukip should be on at least 15 per cent in the opinion polls and its not. I believe it is because his views are making the party so marginal that normal voters just dont want to touch it.The abortion rate in the United States is at an all-time low, according to new data.

According to a report published by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, the national abortion rate has decreased 26 per cent from 2006 to 2015 - a historic low in the 45 years since abortion was made legal in the US.

In one year alone, from 2014 to 2015, abortion rates dropped two per cent.

The abortion ratio, the number of abortions per live births, also decreased in the time period from 2006 to 2015 by 19 per cent, according to the CDC, with abortion rates declining for women in all age groups, and across all race and ethnicity groups.

The historic lows in the measures of abortion have also coincided with a decrease in adolescent or teenage pregnancy in the United States, with the birth rate for adolescents aged 15 to 19 decreasing 47 per cent during 2006 to 2015 and the abortion rate among the same age group decreasing 54 per cent.

After increasing rapidly post Roe v Wade in 1973, abortion reached a high point in the 1980s, before beginning a steady decline, with a total of 638,169 abortions reported in 2015.

According to the report, multiple factors influence the declining number of abortions, such as access to healthcare and contraception, availability of abortion providers and legislation surrounding access, acceptance of non-marital childbearing, and economic changes.

 Abortion could be illegal in 20 states within 18 months says CNN legal analyst

The use of reversible and reliable contraception, likely the biggest influence on the decrease in the number of abortions, has increased amongst all women, according to the CDC, as well as among adolescents.

Providing free contraceptives can further increase use of these methods and reduce abortion rates in America, the CDC suggests, when coupled with the removal of barriers to accessing contraception such as insufficient provider reimbursement and training, inadequate client-centred counselling, lack of youth-friendly services, and low client awareness of available contraceptive methods.

Another reason for the decline may be partly because of the increasingly strict laws introduced primarily by republican lawmakers to make abortions more difficult to obtain - with a previous study suggesting these state-level laws have contributed to the decrease.

Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Show all 23 1 /23 Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists hold placards outside of the US Supreme Court ahead of an expected ruling on abortion clinic restrictions on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions An abortion rights activist holds placards outside of the US Supreme Court before the Court struck down a Texas law placing restrictions on abortion clinics on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. The US Supreme Court on Monday struck down a Texas law placing a raft of restrictions on abortion clinics, handing a major victory to the "pro-choice" camp in the country's most important ruling on the divisive issue in a generation. Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 27: Pro-life activists pray on the steps of the United States Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a 5-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down one of the nation's toughest restrictions on abortion, a Texas law that women's groups said would have forced more than three-quarters of the state's clinics to close. Pete Marovich/Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 27: Texas abortion provider Amy Hagstrom-Miller looks on as Nancy Northup, President of The Center for Reproductive Rights speaks to the media outside of the U.S. Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a 5-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down one of the nation's toughest restrictions on abortion, a Texas law that women's groups said would have forced more than three-quarters of the state's clinics to close. Pete Marovich/Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions An abortion rights activist holds placards outside of the US Supreme Court before the Court struck down a Texas law placing restrictions on abortion clinics on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. The US Supreme Court on Monday struck down a Texas law placing a raft of restrictions on abortion clinics, handing a major victory to the "pro-choice" camp in the country's most important ruling on the divisive issue in a generation. Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Texas abortion provider Amy Hagstrom-Miller wipes a tear as she walks down the steps of the United States Supreme Court with Nancy Northup, President of The Center for Reproductive Rights on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a 5-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down one of the nation's toughest restrictions on abortion, a Texas law that women's groups said would have forced more than three-quarters of the state's clinics to close. Pete Marovich/Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists cheer after the US Supreme Court struck down a Texas law placing restrictions on abortion clinics, outside of the Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a case with far-reaching implications for millions of women across the United States, the court ruled 5-3 to strike down measures which activists say have forced more than half of Texas's abortion clinics to close. Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists cheer after the US Supreme Court struck down a Texas law placing restrictions on abortion clinics, outside of the Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a case with far-reaching implications for millions of women across the United States, the court ruled 5-3 to strike down measures which activists say have forced more than half of Texas's abortion clinics to close. Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 27: Abortion rights activists Morgan Hopkins of Boston, left, and Alison Turkos of New York City, celebrate on the steps of the United States Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a 5-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down one of the nation's toughest restrictions on abortion, a Texas law that women's groups said would have forced more than three-quarters of the state's clinics to close. Pete Marovich/Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists cheer after the US Supreme Court struck down a Texas law placing restrictions on abortion clinics, outside of the Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a case with far-reaching implications for millions of women across the United States, the court ruled 5-3 to strike down measures which activists say have forced more than half of Texas's abortion clinics to close. Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 27: Abortion rights activists Morgan Hopkins of Boston, left, and Alison Turkos of New York City, celebrate on the steps of the United States Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a 5-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down one of the nation's toughest restrictions on abortion, a Texas law that women's groups said would have forced more than three-quarters of the state's clinics to close. (Photo by Pete Marovich/Getty Images) Getty Images Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activist Morgan Hopkins of Boston, celebrates on the steps of the United States Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a 5-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down one of the nation's toughest restrictions on abortion, a Texas law that women's groups said would have forced more than three-quarters of the state's clinics to close. Pete Marovich/Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists embrace after the US Supreme Court struck down a Texas law placing restrictions on abortion clinics, outside of the Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a case with far-reaching implications for millions of women across the United States, the court ruled 5-3 to strike down measures which activists say have forced more than half of Texas's abortion clinics to close. AFP/Getty Images Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists hold placards outside of the US Supreme Court ahead of a ruling on abortion clinic restrictions on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a case with far-reaching implications for millions of women across the United States, the court ruled 5-3 to strike down measures which activists say have forced more than half of Texas's abortion clinics to close. Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions In a case with far-reaching implications for millions of women across the United States, the court ruled 5-3 to strike down measures which activists say have forced more than half of Texas's abortion clinics to close. Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists cheer after the US Supreme Court struck down a Texas law placing restrictions on abortion clinics, outside of the Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a case with far-reaching implications for millions of women across the United States, the court ruled 5-3 to strike down measures which activists say have forced more than half of Texas's abortion clinics to close. AFP/Getty Images Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists cheer after the US Supreme Court struck down a Texas law placing restrictions on abortion clinics, outside of the Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a case with far-reaching implications for millions of women across the United States, the court ruled 5-3 to strike down measures which activists say have forced more than half of Texas's abortion clinics to close. / AFP / MANDEL NGAN (Photo credit should read MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists cheer after the US Supreme Court struck down a Texas law placing restrictions on abortion clinics, outside of the Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a case with far-reaching implications for millions of women across the United States, the court ruled 5-3 to strike down measures which activists say have forced more than half of Texas's abortion clinics to close. / AFP / MANDEL NGAN (Photo credit should read MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists embrace after the US Supreme Court struck down a Texas law placing restrictions on abortion clinics, outside of the Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a case with far-reaching implications for millions of women across the United States, the court ruled 5-3 to strike down measures which activists say have forced more than half of Texas's abortion clinics to close. AFP/Getty Images Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Pro-choice activist, Alissa Manzoeillo, of Washington, D.C. waits for rulings in front of the U.S. Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. A ruling is expected in Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt, a Texas case the places restrictions on abortion clinics, as well as rulings in the former Virginia Governor's corruption case and a gun rights case. Pete Marovich/Getty Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists cheer after the US Supreme Court struck down a Texas law placing restrictions on abortion clinics, outside of the Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. In a case with far-reaching implications for millions of women across the United States, the court ruled 5-3 to strike down measures which activists say have forced more than half of Texas's abortion clinics to close. Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists hold placards outside of the US Supreme Court ahead of an expected ruling on abortion clinic restrictions on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. AFP/Getty Images Supreme Court strikes down abortion restrictions Abortion rights activists hold placards outside of the US Supreme Court ahead of an expected ruling on abortion clinic restrictions on June 27, 2016 in Washington, DC. AFP/Getty Images

Abortion restrictions and clinic closures mean that patients may need to travel greater distances to access services, said Rachel Jones, lead author of the study.

According to the Guttmacher Institute, in 25 states, more than half of women live in a county without a clinic that provides abortion.

The election of President Trump may result in even lower abortion rates as republicans continue to fight abortion.

 Ohio House of Representatives motions to pass 'Heartbeat' abortion bill

In Iowa, one of the most restrictive abortion laws was recently approved - banning abortion at the point the foetus has a heartbeat, around six weeks, and in Ohio, legislation that would prosecute women who obtain abortions was introduced.

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The recent findings by the CDC were compiled by analysing abortion data from the central health agencies of 49 reporting areas in the US including the District of Columbia, New York City, and 47 states excluding California, Maryland and New Hampshire.George HW Bushs body has made its final journey to Washington DC, where the former president lies in state at the US Capitol ahead of funeral services later this week.

Bushs loved ones  including former President George W Bush, the late president's Secret Service detail, and a service dog named Sully  boarded a plane normally reserved for transporting sitting American presidents to accompany the body on its flight from Texas to Maryland, where the plane arrived at Joint Base Andrews at 3.22pm before the late president was transported to the Capitol rotunda in Washington.

Members of the US Military presented a 21-gun salute and an air force band played solemn tributes after the one-term president arrived back in the nation's capital for the final time, accompanied by a brilliant sunset of orange and magenta that framed the Capitol building as the flag-draped casket was carried up the steps to the rotunda by Marines.

In the Capitol Rotunda, several members of Bush's administration sat behind the junior former President Bush and former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, the late president's other son as the late president was brought in and placed on a pedestal in the centre of a throng of mourners. During the ceremony that followed, the president's memory was honoured in speeches by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Speaker of the House Paul Ryan, and Vice President Mike Pence.

"The Greatest Generation achieved all-American accomplishments and exhibited all-American virtues," Mr McConnell said in his remarks. "And it may just be that no one did that as fully as our forty-first president. Even in the ranks of his remarkable generation, he will stand out forever as one of its most especially remarkable sons. George Bush was the best  of the best".

Mr Pence, who this week said he views that the late president was a role model, gave the longest remarks in the Capitol. Like many in the wake of Bush's death on Friday, he remembered him as a man of principle and kindness.

Barbara Bush: life in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Barbara Bush: life in pictures Barbara Bush: life in pictures An infant George W. Bush with his mother Barbara Bush and his father George Bush posing for a portrait in New Haven, CT, April 1947. Barbara Bush: life in pictures George W. Bush (C) poses with father George Bush and his mother Barbara Bush in Rye, New York, summer 1955. Getty Images Barbara Bush: life in pictures George Bush, candidate for the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate, gets returns by phone at his headquarters in Houston as his wife Barbara, beams her pleasure at the news, in June, 1964. AP Barbara Bush: life in pictures George Herbert Walker Bush poses with his wife Barbara during his campaign for Congress in the 1960's. AFP/Getty Images Barbara Bush: life in pictures George Herbert Walker Bush poses with his wife Barbara in Beijing in 1974. AFP/Getty Images Barbara Bush: life in pictures First Lady Barbara Bush talking to her dog Millie as she and granddaughter Barbara Bush, age nine, wait for US President George Bush to return to the White House. September 1991, in Washington,DC. AFP/Getty Images Barbara Bush: life in pictures US First Lady Barbara Bush (L) as she prepares to throw a rugby ball. February 1992,in Washington,DC. AFP/Getty Images Barbara Bush: life in pictures First Lady Barbara Bush and her son George Bush Jr attend the 1992 Republican National Convention on August 17, 1992 in Houston. AFP/Getty Images Barbara Bush: life in pictures U.S. President George Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush work their way through a crowd gathered to welcome them in August 1992, in the Astroarena. AFP/Getty Images Barbara Bush: life in pictures First Lady Barbara Bush greets the delegates attending the Republican Convention before beginning her speech. August 1992, in Houston, Texas. AFP/Getty

"While he was known as the quiet man, it was not for lack of nerve or daring," Mr Pence said. "For in all of his 94 years, President Bush never lost his love of adventure and he never failed to answer the call to serve his country".

Bush served as America's 41st president from 1988 until 1992, and served before that as vice president during Ronald Reagan's administration. Before then, Bush served in the Navy during the Second World War.

He was married to his wife Barbara from 1945 until her death just a few months ago. He had five children with her.

Bush will be eulogized in a funeral service at the National Cathedral in Washington on Wednesday morning before his body will be brought back to his home state of Texas to be buried.

Rev Michael Curry, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church, will lead the funeral. The surviving Bush president is set to eulogise his father, alongside three other individuals close to the late president including former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, former Senator Alan Simpson, and Bush's biographer Jon Meacham, who also eulogised Barbara Bush.

 Former US President George Bush Sr diesaged 94

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump are expected to attend the funeral, though Mr Trump has not been invited to speak during the ceremony in a break from tradition that has seen sitting presidents give remarks on their deceases predecessors previously. Mr Trump will be joined by every living former president at the funeral  Mr Bush, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and Jimmy Carter  as well as all but one former first lady of the US.

In response to Bush's death, the nation has seen an outpouring of respect and mourning, with Mr Bush saying that his late father  whose last words were reportedly "I love you" after a call with his son  will be remembered as a great president.

I think he's going to go down as the greatest one-term president ever, George W. Bush, the late former presidents son, said of his father in an interview in 60 Minutes that aired over the weekend.

The casket will go by train to the Texas A&M University in College Station in a glass car, through which onlookers can see. After that, Mr Bushs body will be buried next to his wife and daughter.

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The former president died at the age of 91 after suffering with a variety of health problems, including Parkinsons. The day after his wife died, he was hospitalised for a blood infection. This will be the first funeral for a former US president in 12 years.Donald Trump has suggested he has no fear of imposing more tariffs on China at the end of a 90-day ceasefire in their ongoing trade war that has disrupted markets and kept investors up at night over the past year.

With just a month until yet another planned tariff increase, Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping agreed over dinner in Argentina at the annual G20 summit last week to a delay on any tax increases in hopes a lasting deal could be negotiated in that time.

Mr Trump said via Twitter on Tuesday that negotiations had started, but if no "real deal" with Beijing could be found he would impose more tariffs. hr then called himself "tariff man".

It remains unclear how much headway has actually been made in the negotiations, and the messages coming out of Washington and Beijing are anything but coordinated.

While Mr Trump said on Monday morning he managed to convince China to reduce tariffs on US car imports  a reduction that would be much needed good news for the American president after GM laid off thousands of workers last month  China has been much less straightforward on the topic, and has refused to confirm it had reduced its 40 per cent duty.

Whether the two countries can find a lasting truce and end the trade war that has simmered over the past year is anyones guess, but the two presidents have said they have instructed their economic teams to intensify talks.

These products may become more costly in the trade war Show all 9 1 /9 These products may become more costly in the trade war These products may become more costly in the trade war Orange Juice, which Florida is known for, may soon be subject to import tariffs Getty Images These products may become more costly in the trade war The EU lists 'footwear with outer soles of rubber or of plastics and uppers of plastics' amongst the goods that may soon be subject to import tariffs Getty Images These products may become more costly in the trade war Cosmetic products, such as US brands Maybelline, MAC and Avon, may soon be subject to import tariffs Getty Images for Rebekka Ruetz These products may become more costly in the trade war Jeans, the all-American trousers, are on the EU's list of goods that may be subject to import tariffs Getty Images These products may become more costly in the trade war Bourbon whiskey is on the EU's list of over 100 US products that may be subject to import tariffs Getty These products may become more costly in the trade war US peanut butter products are on the EU's list of goods that may soon be subject to tariffs Getty Images These products may become more costly in the trade war US motorcycles, such as the Harley-Davidson, may soon be subject to import tariffs Getty Images These products may become more costly in the trade war Cranberry products, a major US crop export, may soon become more expensive Getty Images These products may become more costly in the trade war All tobacco products are on the EU's list of US goods that may be subject to import tarifs AFP/Getty Images

Here is what you need to know about the trade war, how we got here, and what that means going forward.

Why are we seeing these tariffs now?

Mr Trump made China a major bogeyman during his 2016 campaign, insisting the country was taking advantage of the United States when it comes to trade, and what we are seeing is him making good on his promise to be strong on trade.

The tariffs we have seen in the past year come after an investigation by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) that determined that numerous acts, policies, and practices of the government of China related to technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation are unreasonable or discriminatory, and burden or restrict US commerce.

More specifically, the Trump administration and the USTR report allege China distorts markets and has unfair intellectual property policies that harm American businesses.

The US, essentially, contends China has implemented unfair trading policies by forcing US companies to engage in joint ventures with Chinese companies to do business in the country, which opens the door for those companies to use, improve, or replicate US technologies.

In addition, the US contends the Chinese government does not adequately enforce or recognise US patents and the country discriminates against foreign technologies.

Those policies can have a pretty big impact, too, with the US losing out on an estimated $225bn (177bn) to $500bn (393bn) annually from intellectual property theft, according to the seven-month investigation by the USTR.

How big are these tariffs, and when did this start?

The most recent round of tariffs in September saw 10 per cent duties placed on an additional $200bn (157bn) in Chinese imports.

A USTR notice announcing those tariffs included a pledge to increase that rate to 25 per cent on 1 January, which has been temporarily halted as a result of the talks in Argentina.

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Those tariffs came on top of taxes on $50bn (39bn) worth of goods that were imposed in July, and mostly covered high tech products. The USTR also announced in January a 30 per cent tax on Chinese made solar panels, and 20 per cent on Chinese washing machines brought into the US for sale.

The Chinese have not sat idly by, however, and has imposed tariffs on $110bn (86bn) of US goods that impact industries that could threaten Mr Trumps political support in the US. They have also threatened qualitative measures that could hurt US businesses operating in China.

What goods are being taxed?

The tariffs the US imposed on Chinese goods cover thousands of predominantly high tech goods. Those tariffs have impacted the price of TVs, solar panels, cosmetics, electronics, solar panels, beer, cars, and even clothing in the US.

Several major US retailers  including Walmart, Gap, and Coca-Cola  have announced the tariffs could force them to raise prices.

China, meanwhile, has imposed tariffs on goods like American aeroplanes, soybeans, whiskey, fruits and nuts, beer, and wines.

 Missouri soy farmers fear the implications of a trade war with China after Trump announces trade tariffs

What comes next?

Following the agreement between Mr Trump and Mr Xi in Buenos Aires, the two countries have a 90-day period to find a lasting solution their disagreements.

Both sides have previously indicated that they have little interest in giving up any ground they do not have to, and US economic officials have repeatedly said that they believe the US economy is in a stronger place than Chinas. Those sorts of messages could indicate the US government has little intention of backing down at any time in the near future, and things could get a lot worse before anything gets better.

Regardless of the outcome of negotiations in the next 90 days, American consumers can likely look forward to higher prices as they finish up holiday shopping this month.The head of MI6 has warned that while Russia poses a clear and present threat to Britain and the west, Chinas dominance of emerging technologies presents a greater risks to security in the future.

Issues such as 5G technology being reliant on Chinese know-how needed to be examined for future wellbeing of the country, he said.

Basically, power, money and politics is going east, thats the political reality we need to adjust to, said Alex Younger. This is something we really need to talk about, the future of knowledge is in play.

In a rare public speech as head of the Secret Intelligence Service, Mr Younger stated that he had taken particular interest in the recent declaration by president Xi Jinpings made in China ambition to dominate smart communications, artificial intelligence, synthetic biology and genetics.

We have some decisions to take here, said Mr Younger. We need to look at it and we need to have a conversation. It is not going to be straightforward.

Russia has been accused of interfering in western politics, including the US presidential race which put Donald Trump in the White House, the elections in France and Germany and referendums on Brexit and Catalan independence.

But while there have been accusations of Beijings industrial espionage in the west, direct action has so far come from neighbouring countries. Australia and New Zealand have both blocked the Chinese telecoms giant Huawei from providing 5G on grounds of national security.

In only his second public address in four years as C, in charge of MI6, Mr Younger warned of the threat of technological espionage and malign activity by foreign powers.

He said: Our approach to attaching a cost to malign activity also applies to cyber attacks, as in March this year when the UK attributed responsibility for the NotPetya attack against Ukraine, which also affected the United Kingdom, to the Russian government.

Much of the evolving state threat is about our opponents increasingly innovative exploitation of modern technology. So simply put, weve got to innovate faster than they can. Indeed, future generations would not forgive us if it were otherwise.

Weve got to innovate faster than they can. Indeed, future generations would not forgive us if it were otherwise Alex Younger, MI6 chief

The need is to ensure that technology is on our side, not that of our opponents, Mr Younger continued, describing how it had helped expose the Russian spies who allegedly poisoned former MI6 agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in the Noivichok attack in Salisbury.

The digital era has profoundly changed our operating environment. Bulk data combined with modern analytics make the modern world transparent, a fact which contributed to GRU embarrassment after the Salisbury attack. But it is also a serious challenge if used against us, he said, speaking at St Andrews University, where he studied economics and computer science before joining the British army and then MI6.

Cyber is now our fastest-growing directorate. We are shifting our focus to the nexus between humans and technology.

And for the first time, through the National Security Strategic Investment Fund, we are pursuing a completely different type of partnership with the tech-innovation community, giving the private and academic community the role we need and they deserve.

Ironically, the most profound consequence of the technological challenge is a human one. We are determined to attract people with even higher levels of technical skill to join our ranks. But my organisation will need to adapt even faster if it is to thrive in the future. And that will require people with new perspectives, capable of harnessing their creativity in ways that we cant yet even imagine.

Mr Younger also spoke about controversies surrounding two of Britains closes allies in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia and UAE, over the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and the imprisonment of the British academic Matthew Hedges.

The MI6 chief called the killing of Khashoggi, in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in early October as horrible and absolutely barbaric and wanted to stress that there should be a full and transparent investigation into what happened.

On the jailing of Mr Hedges, Mr Younger said he was perplexed by claims of the UAE authorities that he was a British spy. I genuinely cant understand how our Emirati partners came to the conclusions they came to, he said.Edouard Philippe, Frances prime minister, held crisis talks with opposition party politicians on Monday, after the country was left stunned by anti-government protests and the worst riot seen in France in a generation.

More than 130 people were injured and 412 arrested in Paris on Saturday, as anti-government protests continued across the country.

It was the third straight weekend of protests in the city.

Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Show all 29 1 /29 Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Water cannons are turned on the protesters Reuters Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Riot police detain protesters EPA Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures A car is set alight in the protests AFP/Getty Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures The Arc de Triomphe is graffitied with the slogan: 'he yellow vests will triumph' Reuters Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Protesters barricade themselves on the Champs Elysees as police line the streets Reuters Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures A protester fires at police with a slingshot AFP/Getty Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures A protester holds up a sign that reads 'your Europe ruins us' Reuters Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures A protester gestures amidst burning cars EPA Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Protesters walk amidst tear gas near the Arc de Triomphe Reuters Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures A protester runs amidst tear gas Reuters Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Protesters on the Champs Elysees amidst tear gas AFP/Getty Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Protesters in yellow vests gather outside the town hall in Bordeaux EPA Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Protesters gather on the Champs Elysees after the police deploy tear gas AFP/Getty Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Protesters stand by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Paris AFP/Getty Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures A protester waves a French flag Reuters Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Riot police take formation AFP/Getty Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures A general view of the Champs Elysees in Paris today as protesters clash with police Reuters Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures A protester wears a jacket reading 'Macron, thief, lier, crook, go away, the people banish you' AP Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Protesters gather on the Champs Elysees AFP/Getty Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Protesters hold a French flag by a burning barricade AFP/Getty Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Protesters gather by a fire AFP/Getty Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Water cannons are turned on the protesters Reuters Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures A protester wears an adapted yellow vest reading 'Macron's cemetery: here lies your buying power' AFP/Getty Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Protesters gather by a burning car AFP/Getty Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Riot police advance through tear gas followed closely by their water cannon EPA Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Tear gas is deployed to deter the protesters Reuters Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures A protester waves a French flag amidst tear gas AP Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures Protesters walk amidst tear gas by the Arc de Triomphe Reuters Clashes at the Paris fuel protests: in pictures A protester holds a sign asking for the reintroduction of ISF (an old French tax on wealth) AFP/Getty

Riot police used water cannons and tear gas to subdue the crowds in the French capital, closing down dozens of underground stations and streets in an effort to contain the chaos.

By Sunday the Arc de Triomphe was tagged with graffiti, shops had been looted and torched cars and broken glass littered popular tourist haunts.

Other protests outside of Paris were largely peaceful.

People in distinctive yellow traffic vests led the outpouring of public anger, which began on 17 November.

Initially the movement was started by motorists upset over a fuel tax hike.

It has since grown to include others disillusioned by Emmanuel Macrons leadership.

Most of the criticism is underpinned by the complaint the presidents government does not care about ordinary people.

The French leader and his prime minister have both been heavily criticised over their handling of the crisis

Mr Philippe was urged by rival politicians on Monday to reverse some of the centrist governments policies.

After meeting with the prime minister, Socialist leader Olivier Faure urged Mr Philippe to slash the fuel tax and to restore a wealth tax, which was scrapped by the ruling party.

We want a change in the method. One needs to come down from Mount Olympus, Mr Faure said, in a possible reference to Jupiter, the nickname given to Mr Macron by his critics.

The president compared himself to the Roman king of the gods in 2016 and has been dogged by the pejorative nickname ever since.

 President Macron is heckled by onlookers as he visits damaged Arc de Triomphe after protests in Paris

Laurent Wauquiez, head of the centre right Les Republicans party, urged the government to hold a referendum to end the crisis but did not suggest a possible question or topic to put to the people.

French people need to be heard again, and for that we must organise a referendum to decide these issues, he said.

Mr Philippe will try to defuse the rising tension by meeting with yellow vest leaders on Tuesday.

Mr Macron, who spent the weekend abroad, returned from the G20 summit on Sunday and immediately chaired an emergency meeting on the crisis.

Members of the National Assembly will also hold talks on the protests later this week.

The French government has not ruled out the possibility of imposing a state of emergency in response to the protests.

The yellow vest protests continued on Monday, as ambulance workers took to the streets to complain about their working conditions.

Protesters set tyres on fire and blocked roads.

One activist held up a sign reading The State killed me and others chanted Macron resign!

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Since the movement erupted last month, three people have been killed and hundreds injured in clashes or accidents stemming from the protests.

Over the past three weeks, protesters have been setting up road blockades across the country and their movement has garnered wide public support.

Additional reporting by agenciesA trove of text messages sent by slain Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi to another dissident activist abroad suggest he was far more deeply opposed to the de facto reign of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman than previously known, and that he was actively funding a project to invigorate his opponents, according to CNN.

The CNN report also suggested that the communications between Khashoggi and the Montreal-based activist Omar Abdulaziz may have been accessed by Saudi security officials and contributed to the plot that led his death.

The more victims he eats, the more he wants, Khashoggi reportedly wrote in one text message after the arrest of Saudi activists in May. I will not be surprised if the oppression will reach even those who are cheering him on.

At one point in the texts, Khashoggi likens the crown prince and his entourage to the family of Muammar Gaddafi, the brutal dictator of Libya who ran the country as his personal fiefdom for decades.

More than two months after Khashoggis death at the hands of Saudi hitmen  who were dispatched from Riyadh to Istanbul to strangle him, dismember his body and somehow get rid of his remains during a consular visit  controversy continues to surround Prince Mohammed who is believed by US spies and others to have ordered the hit.

Several US newspapers, citing unnamed officials in Washington, reported that American spies had detected 11 text messages between Prince Salman and his deputy Saud al-Qahtani, the ranking official allegedly behind the operation, in the hours during and after Khashoggis kidnapping and murder. US lawmakers have begun moving to cut weapons sales to Saudi Arabia both over the Khashoggi affair and the ongoing war in Yemen, considered one of the worlds worst humanitarian disasters.

En route from a G20 summit in Buenos Aires where he was shunned or scolded by western leaders but embraced by Russian president Vladimir Putin, Prince Mohammed yesterday visited Mauritania and Algeria en route home from Latin America. In Algiers, his talks with Abdelaziz Bouteflika were cancelled, over the ailing presidents suffering from flu, according to the presidential office. Despite written statements against his visit by intellectuals and politicians, no protests greeted him amid a ban on public gatherings in the capital.

Local media reports suggest Prince Mohammed may cancel a planned visit to Jordan amid rising and vocal opposition in the Kingdom, which allows limited press and civil freedoms. The timing of the visit is not appropriate, Basil Okoor, the editor in chief of a local news website, was quoted as saying.

Tunisians demonstrate with saws in Tunis, as the Saudi crown prince arrived in the capital (AP)

The CNN report, which quickly went viral on Arabic social media, resurrected a matter Saudi authorities have been hoping to sweep away. The report showed that Khashoggi regarded the crown prince as a beast and a menace, lacking the respectful tone of his Washington Post columns and television appearances. May God rid us and this nation of this predicament, he wrote in June.

The CNN report alleged that Khashoggi was planning to use tens of thousands of dollars of his own money and raise funds to finance a previously reported project to create an army of bees on social media to take on the pro-Prince Mohammed troll army.

The project involved dispatching SIM cards from abroad to dissidents so they could get online without being monitored by Saudi Arabias extensive surveillance system.

But the two men panicked when they received word that the Saudi regime knew about the project. God help us, Khashoggi wrote in August.

 Hillary Clinton says Trump is part of the coverup in Khashoggi killing during speaking tour

Later, Canadian technicians reportedly discovered that Khashoggis phone had been hacked, very likely by the Saudi government using tools it bought from an Israeli company called NSO.

Amnesty International last week said it was considering legal action against NSO for allegedly spying on its staff, after Israeli media reported the same company had offered Saudi Arabia surveillance software for hacking mobile phones belonging to activists connected to Khashoggi, including Omar Abdulaziz.

Mr Abdulazizs lawyers have now filed a lawsuit in Tel Aviv, alleging NSO broke international law by selling its software to regimes which disregard human rights.

To many supporters of the Saudi regime, the content of Khashoggis texts will be regarded as treacherous, and a number of social media accounts used his private words to justify his treatment at the hands of his killers.

The Saudis should thank CNN for the report that exposed the real Jamal to the public, wrote one pro-Saudi user with 15,000 followers. Adding that Khashoggi deserved this brutal killing.

The Saudis have continued to deny the crown princes involvement and maintain that the killing was a result of a rogue operation.A delegation of Yemens Houthi rebels is set to travel to Sweden for UN-hosted peace talks on Tuesday as medics in the city of Hodeidah warn civilians are dying at home after fierce fighting engulfed the main hospitals.

UN special envoy Martin Griffiths arrived in the Houthi-held capital Sanaa on Monday to escort the rebels, Houthi officials told The Independent.

On Monday afternoon at least 50 wounded rebels were at the airport waiting for transfer by UN aircraft to Oman for treatment, which is one of the conditions of the groups attendance at the talks.

Yemens official government, which is backed by a Saudi Arabia-led coalition, meanwhile said it would follow the Houthis to the meeting, which is due to start on Wednesday. If the negotiations go ahead they would be the first since 2016.

But undermining the hopes of peace is the battle which continues to rage in the Red Sea port of Hodeidah. Distraught medics told The Independent on Monday that patients, including children starving to death, pregnant women, and people needing chemotherapy, were unable to access the citys main hospital al-Thawra as fighting now completely encircles the building.

The fighting has never been this bad, said Dr Ashwaq Moharram, a gynaecologist, who broke down into tears during the phone call. We cannot access al-Thawra to treat our patients, as the fighting has completely surrounded it.

The doctor has been fighting a one-woman battle against famine for the last three years and is one of the few medics who stayed in Hodeidah to treat civilians.

She continued: For two days now, I have seen with my own eyes airstrikes and shelling from both sides all around the hospital. There are patients that cannot move because they are so severely malnourished, and say they will die in the hospital.

She added: There are others who urgently need medical help because they are so malnourished or dehydrated, but they cant get there. They told me they will simply die at home.

The hospital is one of only two that were still functioning in the strategic city a few weeks ago. The Independent was not able confirm if the other medical centre was operating.

Ms Moharram said al-Thawra usually treats dozens of cases of severely malnourished or dehydrated people every day and that it services areas all over Hodeidah and beyond.

The battle is in the heart of the city. Please tell them to stop, she begged.

Yemen has been ripped apart by a ruinous three-and-a-half-year war since the Iran-backed Houthis swept control of the country in early 2015, ousting the recognised president Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi.

Saudi Arabia and its Gulf allies launched a bombing campaign in March of the same year to reinstate their ally, fearing the encroachment of Iranian influence on their borders. The ensuing fighting has sparked the worst humanitarian crisis in terms of numbers and pushed the country to the brink of famine.

Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Show all 17 1 /17 Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Doctors take some blood of Yemeni Yousef Abdullah Bakhit Ali, 13, suffering from severe acute malnutrition. With ongoing and unending conflict in Yemen, humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate across the country Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen A doctor weighs Yemeni baby Yahya Hamoud Ali Al Huzef, 9 months suffering from malnutrition Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Ali Mohammed Ahmed Jamal,12 years old and suffering from severe acute malnutrition. He arrives with his family at a Unicef supported treatment centre in a hospital in Sanaa Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen A doctor measures the arm of Yemeni Ali Mohammed Ahmed Jamal, 12, who is suffering from malnutrition at a treatment centre in a hospital in Sanaa Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen There are over 400,000 severely malnourished children in need urgent lifesaving assistance in Yemen Unicef/Abdulhaleem Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Ali Mohammed Ahmed Jamal is weighed Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen A doctor measures the arm of baby Yahya Hamoud Ali Al Huzef Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Unicef are currently working to reach 275,000 malnourished children with critical life-saving supplies and care for over 5 million people with safe and clean water to stop the spread of life-threatening diseases Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Yahya Hamoud Ali Al Huzef with his family in his house in the outskirts of the capital Sanaa Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen The country is on the brink of famine and children's chances of survival are becoming slimmer by the day Unicef/Abdulhaleem Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Ali Mohammed Ahmed Jamal has his arm measured Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Unicef are currently working to provide nearly 1 million children with vaccines and healthcare Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Unicef are working with partners around-the clock to save children suffering from malnutrition and disease Unicef/Abdulhaleem Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Unicef are currently working to provide 9 million people with emergency cash assistance to help families buy basic commodities so they can survive Unicef/Huwais Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Ali Mohammed Ahmed Jamal is suffering from malnutrition Unicef Children suffering from acute malnutrition in Yemen Unicef/Abdulhaleem

Over 57,000 people have been killed due to the fighting while thousands more have perished due to hunger according to estimates by Associated Press.

Last month Save the Children warned that as many as 85,000 children have likely starved to death since the start of the conflict and thousands more were at risk of perishing.

The United Nations estimates that 14 million people could be fatally malnourished if the war does not stop. Three-quarters of the population, meanwhile, rely on aid to survive.

The worst cases are in Hodeidah, where food prices have soared by as much as 400 per cent, according to local residents.

 Malnutrition centre in Mukalla, Yemen provides care for children suffering hunger and famine

The international community is hoping Wednesdays talks in Sweden will see an immediate end to the fighting and allow aid agencies to rescue trapped civilians.

The UNs last attempt to hold talks collapsed in September when a demand by the Houthi rebels for their fighters to be treated in Oman or Europe was rejected.

But sources within Sanaa airport confirmed that 50 wounded rebels were waiting at the terminal ready to be transferred to Oman for treatment on Monday evening. The Saudi-led coalition said in a statement it had agreed on the evacuation for humanitarian considerations and as part of confidence-building measures.

On Tuesday the Houthi delegation was then expected to travel to Sweden via Oman.

The battle is in the heart of the city. Please tell them to stop fighting Ashwaq Moharram, Yemeni medic

In Sanaa, sources close to the Houthis said that few were optimistic about the negotiations.

One source said: We have little hope for a peace deal, [the Saudi-led coalition] is carpet bombing Hodeidah city, so clearly they dont want peace in Yemen. The coalition has continually lied, we are not optimistic.

Sources within the Gulf coalition, that will not be participating in the Yemeni talks, meanwhile, expressed similar distrust.

A source said: We hope the Houthis will attend the talks, which will be successful. We are for a political solution. The Houthis are under pressure right now because of the military action [in Hodeidah].

Irans foreign ministry said it backs the talks and was ready to help find a political solution, Iranian state TV reported on Monday.

Ashwaq Moharram, right, attends to patients during one of the rounds of her mobile clinics (Ashwaq Moharram)

Western powers, which provide arms and intelligence to the coalition, have meanwhile piled pressure on both sides to stop the fighting.

The US Senate is due to consider this week a resolution to end support for the conflict.Theres a howling wind blowing from the Zambezi Escarpment with vivid flashes of lightning ripping across the dark, moody skies. Our Land Cruisers are caked in mud from tracks drowned by Zimbabwes long-awaited first rains: we get stuck and winch each other out, get stuck again and winch again. But it will all be worth it if we find what were looking for  Africas newest celebrities, the painted wolves turned superstars that featured in Dynasties: Blacktip and Tammy.

In April, Id seen Sir David Attenborough filming in Zimbabwes Mana Pools National Park. Mana is Africa at its best, with myriad wildlife and birds in beautiful tree-studded plains spanning out from the mighty Zambezi river. Last week I came back to track the now-famous predators with expert photographic guide Nicholas Dyer.

Although not part of the BBC crew, Nicholas has spent months at a time over the past five years photographing the endangered wolves hes come to know and love. Sleeping in a dome tent in the bush, he set out every day to find them on foot. His intimate images have been published in a new coffee table book, Painted Wolves: A Wild Dogs Life, and his intriguing photograph of puppies playing with a dead baboons face is highly commended in the Natural History Museums Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition.

One of Tammys pups (Nicholas Dyer/nicholasdyer.com)

Nicks aim is simple. I want other people to love painted wolves too, just as they love lions, rhinos and elephants, he explains. We need to raise their profile. A century ago, there were over 500,000 of them but theres just 6,500 left  if we dont protect them now, theyll be gone. Here in Mana, the wolves are lucky: theyre living as they should live, unaffected by mankind. There arent snares, they dont get persecuted or run over, they dont get rabies from domestic dogs But theyre still killed by lions and hyenas.

In September, with Peter Blinston, director of NGO Painted Dog Conservation (PDC), and Diane Skinner, a leading conservationist, Nicholas launched the Painted Wolf Foundation to raise awareness and funds for their protection. Profits from their book will be donated to the foundation to support organisations like PDC in research, anti-poaching and community outreach programmes.

Once were out of the mud, Thomas Mutonhori, a PDC researcher, climbs on top of the Land Cruiser with his telemetry receiver, earphones on, slowly turning the antenna to get signals from the collared wolves that indicate their location. We wait quietly  but the only response is silence.

Just yesterday, Nicholas had seen Blacktip here. This whole area was one big lake after the rain and there she was with her seven new pups all drenched and muddy. It was the first time the pups had ever seen rain and the looks on their faces were hilarious, saying this is fun yet not really knowing what was happening. They started playing around, loving it all.

Born and bred in Kenya, Nicholas gave up a lucrative marketing business in London to return to Africa, embarking on road trips across the continent and learning photography and guiding skills en route. Thats when he fell in love with Mana and its wolves.

Pip having fun with her pups (Nicholas Dyer/nicholasdyer.com)

Next year, guests staying with conservation-focused safari operators African Bush Camps will also be able to track and photograph these enigmatic animals on a painted wolves safari with Nicholas. Their three Mana camps include Kanga, surrounding a game-rich waterhole miles from any other property; the excellent Zambezi Expeditions camp on the riverbank; and the new high-end Nyamatusi, opening in April 2019 with 10 beautiful suites overlooking the Zambezi.

This year, all three camps have been at the confluence of the packs territories, Nicholas tells me. Seeing them isnt guaranteed but the safaris will run in the dry season, when the pups emerge from their dens and chances of seeing them are good.

Finding them in the rains, however, isnt easy. After another hour of challenging driving, Thomas tries the telemetry again: it beeps, soft and faint. Its Pip, Blacktips daughter, he says. But shes far away in thick bush. Well never get there.

This arresting picture was highly commended in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition (Nicholas Dyer/nicholasdyer.com)

Dusk is falling and were a long, muddy way from camp. Reluctantly, we head back with the wolves unseen. En route, Nicholas picks up their stories from where the BBC left off.

On Dynasties, wed seen alpha female Tait killed by lions after her power struggle with Blacktip. Tammy and Blacktip, Taits daughters, still rule the floodplain together with Pip, her granddaughter. Theyre all the same family and they have a relatively peaceful co-existence. Tammy and Pip are wary of Blacktip, though, and give her space.

But Tammy has had a rough time recently. Blacktip took control of her floodplain territory, pushing her into the Pridelands where their mother died. There she tragically lost three of her four pups.

Blacktips pups enjoying the rain (Nicholas Dyer/nicholasdyer.com)

She was pregnant with those pups when she was filmed in the closing sequences with David Attenborough. In his honour, Thomas had named one of them Atten  and he was the only one to survive.

And so Taits dynasty continues. With help from PDC, the Painted Wolf Foundation and their new celebrity status, perhaps at last its time for these beautiful animal to shine, with Blacktip, Tammy, Pip  and now Atten  as beautiful, if elusive, ambassadors.

Thomas Mutonhori uses a telemetry receiver to find the painted wolves (Nicholas Dyer/nicholasdyer.com)

Travel essentials

Audley Travel offers tailor-made trips to Zimbabwe. A nine-night trip featuring a wild dog safari with expert photographic guide Nicholas Dyer and a walking guide, including three nights at Zambezi Expeditions, two nights at Kanga and two nights at Nyamatusi, full board, costs from 9,640pp (based on two sharing). The price also includes international flights on Kenyan Airways, domestic flights, transfers, a private vehicle, accommodation, park fees, day room at Harare before the flight and a $50 donation to The Painted Wolf Foundation.

More information

paintedwolf.org

painteddog.orgFebruary may be synonymous with Valentines Day, but theres not much romantic about the grey trudge of the UK winter.

Here are 10 of the best destinations to brighten your mood when things get dreary.

Rovaniemi, Finland

See the Northern Lights in the comfort of the Aurora Wagon (Apukka Resort)

Sure, its chilly in Finnish Lapland in February too (around -13C at its most bone-jangling) but this is also a prime time and place to spot the mesmerising swirls of the Aurora Borealis, which are particularly vivid at this time of year. The best way to explore this arctic wilderness is via Aurora Wagon. Hop into one of these cosy cabins on wheels and youll be driven through the vast snowy landscape in search of the perfect spot to park up for the evening. Then, youll be left to your own devices to gaze through the panoramic windows as the sky erupts above you.

Average temperature in February: -10C

Flight time: 3 hours 25 minutes

You might also like: Northern lights tour from Rovaniemi

Bolivia

Standing on the arid and otherworldly Uyuni Salt Flats at a lung-pinching altitude of 3,600m, Kachi dome camp will be the first luxury accommodation in the area when it opens in February 2019. Here, comfort meets true wilderness (each dome has a private bathroom, comfortable bedding, interior decoration including bleached woods and earthy textiles, and heating). From the camp youll be able to hike to the lower lip of the Tunupa volcano, visit an island covered with giant cacti, seek out the mummies sheltering in a cave at the nearby village of Coquesa and learn how the locals collect salt from the surface of the Salar.

Average temperature in February: 13C

Flight time: 20 hours

You might also like: Bolivia Highlights adventure tour

The Serengeti, Tanzania

Spy wildebeest babies from the comfort of Roving Bushtops (Roving Bushtops)

Roving Bushtops is a camp designed to capture the pioneering spirit of the early explorers. At the end of January, it will relocate, following the wildebeest migration south to Kusini. From its new base, guests will have a chance to witness the spectacular three-month long birthing season where, at its peak, more than 8,000 tiny wildebeest babies are born every day. As the spectacle is so often overlooked in favour of the Great Wildebeest Migration, youll share views of the births, and the predators that lurk looking to try their luck at a meal, with very few other humans.

Average temperature in February: 19C

Flight time: 10 hours 40 minutes

You might also like: Eight Day Serengeti Trail

The Forest of Dean, UK

We cant promise youll levitate after a session floating in the Forest of Dean (Rick Nadal)

Deepest Gloucestershire might not be the first place that springs to mind when it comes to a winter holiday, but actually theres good reason to go down to the woods in February. When it opens its doors (or rather, pods), Float in the Forest will be one of the only places in the country where you can take part in flotation therapy before emerging into picturesque woodland  rather than a busy high street. The relaxation therapy involves floating on the surface of warm water saturated with Epsom salts, and can be combined with holistic therapies and more physically demanding experiences, like kayaking and hiking.

Average temperature in February: 5C

Flight time: N/A

Southern Kenya

Off-season east Africa can be pretty exhilarating. Which is why luxury travel company Asilia has launched a new series of itineraries, which are only bookable in quieter months like February. Its active Kenya adventure is not your average jeep and sleep safari. Instead, youll zipline through forests, hike to the top of a volcanic crater, mountain bike through the canyons of Hells Gate National Park and spend a day exploring the forests, waterfalls and escarpment of the Aberdare National Park. Youll finish at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy where you can learn all about their world class rhino conservation efforts.

Average temperature in February: 21C

Flight time: 8 hours 35 minutes

You might also like: Kenya Wildlife Safari

Oman

Sunrise at Jabal al Akhdar in Oman (Anantara)

Oman doesnt top as many bucket lists as it should. Its relatively untouched (even by seasoned travellers), has the most incredible Mars-like scenery and is not as concerned with opulence as some of its close neighbours  making it an easy and unfussy country to negotiate. Omani winter ends in February, bringing with it an ideal sightseeing climate, meaning you can explore its glittering wadis, elaborate mosques and smoky souks while staying comfortable. Adrenaline junkies should book into the Antantara Al Jabar Al Akhdar, which sits at a nosebleed-worthy 2,000 metres above sea level, for staggering canyon views and a chance to climb its nerve-testing activity wall.

Average temperature in February: 22C

Flight time: 7 hours 10 minutes

You might also like: Discover Oman Tour

The Kimberley, Western Australia

Known for its craggy gorges, rugged natural beauty and isolated coastline, the dramatic Kimberley region in Western Australia is one of the worlds last great wildernesses. Newly launching in February will be COMO The Treasurys new five-night package, which will include spending your first and last night in the striking converted bank property in Perth, with three nights in the middle of the trip spent in luxury accommodation in the wild Kimberley, offering the ideal combination of a cultural city break and off the beaten track outback adventure.

Average temperature in February: 25C

Flight time: 20 hours

You might also like: The Great Kimberley Overland

Singapore

February is the perfect time to head to Singapore. Not only is it at its least rainy, least humid and most sunny at this time of year, the month also marks the celebration of the Chinese (Lunar) New Year. Head out onto the streets and youll see Marina Bay awash with stilt walkers and lion dancers, and the streets festooned with brightly coloured paper lanterns. Browse the many street hawker centres for a melting pot of foods, including the Michelin starred Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice Noodle. Which will set you back about a pound.

Average temperature in February: 27C

Flight time: 12 hours 50 minutes

You might also like: Singapores China Town Food Adventure

Mexico

Monarch Biosphere Reserve in Mexico (Shutterstock)

Mexico is home to two brilliantly wild events in February: the monarch butterfly migration, which sees millions of the delicate insects make their way to Canada, and the arrival of humpback, blue and grey whales which breed off the countrys Pacific coast. Book with Black Tomato, which will tailor-make a trip to Michoacan, home to Monarch Biosphere Reserve. Here you can explore the pine forests of Mariposa Monarca, hiking and horseriding through swarms of monarch butterflies with a local biologist, who will explain ins and outs of this remarkable wintering migration.

Average temperature in February: 16C

Flight time: 11 hours 55 minutes

You might also like: Mexican Heartlands adventure

Ilulissat, Greenland

Sleep in an igloo in Greenland (Mike Rinno Kruse)

Fancy sleeping in an igloo? Head to the iceberg-filled Ilulissat on Greenlands west coast and you can do just that, at a brand new Igloo Lodge, launching at the end of January 2019. Run by Arctic Travel specialists Off the Map Travel, the lodge is ideal for those wanting to add even more adventure to their Arctic experience. Each hand-built igloo comes complete with reindeer skins, specialist warm winter sleeping bags and a petroleum lamp on a night table. And while outside temperatures can plummet well below freezing, the igloos remain at around 0C. Positively toasty.

Average temperature in February: -9C

Flight time: 7 hours 55 minutes

You might also like: Arctic Express: Greenlands Northern Lights

We may earn some commission if you click on a link in this article and buy a product or service, but we never allow this to influence our coverage.Q We holiday in Bali frequently, visiting the same hotel, generally by package. This time I have booked directly. What is the best way to settle the accommodation costs: buying local currency in Bali, buying Indonesian rupiah in the UK, or paying by credit card? If a credit card, should I pay in rupiah or pounds sterling?

David B

A I imagine you have found a significantly better deal buying the flights and the hotel separately, and I trust it is good enough to justify surrendering the gold-plated rights that come with buying a proper package holiday.Another day, another attempt to unravel US foreign policy.

It could of course be quite simple. After a meeting with Chinas president Xi Jinping at the G20 summit, Donald Trump merrily tweeted: China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the US. Currently the tariff is 40 per cent.

The Chinese authorities havent commented on the social media announcement, confirming only that the two countries leaders had agreed that their advisers should work towards ending tariffs. It was also confirmed that no new tariffs would be introduced by either side while negotiations were underway.

On his return from Argentina, Trump was even more buoyant, describing his meeting with President Xi as extraordinary and suggesting in a tweet that relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward. Interestingly, he added that discussions had gone beyond trade, noting that a solution for North Korea is a great thing for China and ALL!

That flick to the situation on the Korean peninsula is notable in the current context because it should act as a reminder that Trumps modus operandi when it comes to diplomatic matters is to be bullish, before having his heart melted by one-on-one encounters.

When it came to Korea, he met fierce rhetoric with even fiercer rhetoric  and made things personal between himself and Kim Jong-un, the nations rocket man leader. Only when it seemed as if things might get dangerously out of control did sense intervene and a summit of the two big-talking men seemed to open the possibility of a lasting deal on North Koreas nuclear ambitions.

We are seeing the same pattern emerge with China, with Trump directing angry rhetoric towards Beijing both during his White House campaign and since entering the Oval Office. While Xi Jinping cannot match Kim in the name-calling stakes, nonetheless he is not a man to be easily rolled over and thus promised that China would retaliate against any US moves to impose trade tariffs. So it has proved, with tit-for-tat exchanges undermining confidence in the global economy.

Just as he did over Korea, however, Trump has used a theatrical set-piece apparently to rebalance a diplomatic relationship that looked increasingly fraught. The images of the US and Chinese delegations lined up facing one another, national flags a-fluttering, didnt seem full of promise  but if you believe his Twitter feed, the Trump charm has paid off once again.

Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Show all 16 1 /16 Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Anti-Trump protesters gather outside of the rally Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee A supporter of the president waiting for the rally Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Anti-Trump protesters wield picket signs Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee A Trump supporter outside of the Mckenzie Arena in Chattanooga prior to the President's appearance Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Anti-Trump protesters gather outside of the rally with signs Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee A t-shirt for sale at the rally Lucy Gray Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee A crowd gathers in waiting for the rally Lucy Gray Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee A Trump memorabilia stand outside of the rally EPA Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Trump supporters cheer as the President arrives to the rally AP Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee President Trump stands with Lee Greenwood as he sings 'God Bless the USA' to commence the rally Reuters Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee A supporter listens as President Trump speaks EPA Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee President Trump addresses supporters AP Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee President Trump thanks Senate candidate Marsha Blackburn after her speech EPA Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Supporters of the president wield signs during the rally Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Trump supporters cheer during the rally AFP/Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee President Trump exits the stage AP

Indeed, to Trump supporters, the seeming rapprochement between the US and China is evidence of his diplomatic brilliance; his ability to do a great deal when the odds seemed stacked against him. It is said Trump fancied a Nobel Peace prize for his work to ease Korean tensions; he might want an economics medal for his latest brilliance too.

But it is one of the consequences of an America First approach that Trump sees things primarily  perhaps only  in the context of how they will play with his own domestic audience. What is lost is that the motives of his diplomatic opponents are not simply about upsetting Americans or antagonising the man in the White House (who could in any event be antagonised by Mary Poppins).

Recommended Follow the latest tweets from Donald Trump and what they really mean

Rather, they have domestic concerns and imperatives of their own. Kim, for his part, needed to prove his mettle while at the same time finding a way to improve relations with South Korea that didnt cause him to lose face. He achieved that handsomely, to the extent that Seoul is now actively arguing in favour of easing sanctions against the North.

Likewise, Xi has faced claims that engaging in a trade war is adding to the problem of a sluggish economy back home. He needed, therefore, to cut a deal; for now at least, while China takes stock. A 90-day hiatus suits Xi arguably more than Trump, who knows that his base support would be happy for the trade war to be ramped up, rather than dampened down (even if the stock markets reaction to the deal shows that financiers in the US have welcomed it).

As with Korea, it remains to be seen whether Americas improved relationship with China is a lasting state of affairs. Though you wouldnt know it to listen to the White House that depends as much on the domestic and economic needs of the men in power in Pyongyang and Beijing as it does on President Trump.Today The Independent and the Evening Standard launch a Christmas appeal in conjunction with the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

The primary aim of our campaign is to increase dramatically the uptake of HIV testing among vulnerable groups in the UK, US and around the world, and to improve the accessibility of treatment for those who need it.

London has been a success story when it comes to increasing rates of people taking HIV tests, becoming one of only three cities globally to meet the 90-90-90 targets set out in the Paris Declaration on Fast-Track Cities: Ending the Aids Epidemic.

 World Aids Day: the annual HIV awareness campaign

The declaration aims to ensure that 90 per cent of people living with HIV know their status; that 90 per cent of those diagnosed are receiving treatment; and that 90 per cent of people being treated have successfully seen their viral loads suppressed.

It is vital that London continues to set an example  and vital too that other cities are given the assistance they need to follow in the city's footsteps. Our appeal will focus on how this can be done.

The world has come a long way since the Aids crisis of the 1980s. In those early years, infection with HIV appeared to be a death sentence. Indeed millions of those who went on to develop Aids have died as a result of the disease.

Today, however, thanks to remarkable medical advances, HIV can be suppressed to the extent that patients do not get sick and dont go on to infect others. The truth is, the way the world has developed the means to combat HIV is one of the great medical achievements of our time.

Nevertheless, HIV/Aids has not been stopped. Around the world, there are 37 million people living with HIV and each year there are around 1.8 million new infections. It is estimated that at least one in 10 people living with HIV do not know their status because they simply havent been tested.

Moreover, not all those who do know they are living with the virus can access the treatment they need to stay healthy. Paradoxically, treatment is more likely to be out of reach for those groups who are particularly vulnerable  young women, the homeless, migrants and the LGBT+ community  because of social exclusion or shame.

While deaths from Aids-related illnesses have fallen since the peak years of the early 2000s, even so last year nearly a million people lost their lives as a result of developing Aids.

It remains as vital as ever that we take preventative steps so that Aids can finally be eradicated from the world.

 Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events

Sir Elton John established his foundation in 1992. As he says, in those days the stigma of HIV was so extreme that people living with the virus were afraid to go outside. The foundation was in the business of delivering meals so that individuals who had shut themselves away would not starve.

The stigma may have lessened (in some parts of the world anyway), but the foundations efforts are no less important than they were 26 years ago.

Indeed, our report from Atlanta highlights the point well. Astonishingly, if you are a black gay man in that wealthy American city, you have a 50 per cent chance of being diagnosed as HIV positive in your lifetime. And many of those people still dont get the right treatment.

Sir Elton makes the point that it is the poor who are most likely to be infected: is that why HIV and Aids have drifted out of the publics consciousness? Whatever the answer to that question, he is right to conclude that today, any person dying because of Aids anywhere is unforgivable.

Over the coming weeks we will feature many inspiring stories, as well as some that will make difficult reading. We hope they will remind the world that there is still more to do to tackle Aids.

We will also be asking you, our readers, to consider donating to this important cause. We know our appeal can make a difference.

Money raised from public donations through the AIDSfree appeal will be used to support the Elton John AIDS Foundation projects in six key cities around the world (London, Nairobi, Atlanta, Kiev, Delhi and Maputo). Through UK Aid Match, the UK government will double public donations up to 2 million to be spent across projects in Maputo and Nairobi.The debate about whether the government should disclose its legal advice on the Brexit withdrawal agreement has been cast as an argument between politics and law. The government has invoked the right available to all clients  known as legal professional privilege  to keep the legal advice it has received confidential. Although its technically true that it can claim privilege over its advice, whether the government should have this right is open to debate, even as a matter of law. The case of the states Brexit advice illustrates perfectly why many lawyers question the scope of privilege for governments.

Legal professional privilege is a human right. It allows citizens to get legal advice explaining what legal obligations the state has imposed on them, and the rights they have against the state and their fellow citizens.

The government, however, is no ordinary client.

 Philip Hammond declares that the government will not publish in full the legal advice it received on the Irish border backstop proposal

In a recent talk on legal professional privilege at UCL, Lord Neuberger, the former president of the Supreme Court, questioned the soundness of allowing the state to claim privilege against the people.

The spectre of the government denying British citizens access to its advice on the rights and obligations that will legally bind Britain if the withdrawal agreement is ratified is another Alice in Wonderland moment in a debate that has had no shortage of Lewis Carroll references.

If the government does want to resort to technical legal doctrine to support its argument, it would also be well aware that it has the right to waive privilege, and is free to disclose its advice for whatever reason. So whats stopping it from doing so? Sir Keir Starmer has said that the governments legal advice should be disclosed in exceptional circumstances, which is clearly the case here (as it was when the country went to war in Iraq).

But there is a deeper reason to think that waiving privilege would not cause any harm to good government. This is an area where the law has extended well beyond the principle that supports it. The logic of privilege as it applies to citizens is that without a guarantee of absolute confidentiality, they might be reluctant to seek advice, or be less than candid in what they tell their lawyer. Now apply that logic to the Brexit withdrawal agreement. Does anyone seriously believe the government would not seek advice about the legal effect of the agreement if they thought the advice might be later disclosed?

 Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events

Theresa May frequently asserts that she is motivated only by the national interest in decisions on Brexit. Even her fiercest critics, from committed Remainers to hardline Brexiteers, acknowledge her sense of duty to the public interest.

But the public interest now requires that the government take legal advice about such a momentous legal decision, and it is the lawyers legal duty (whether it be the attorney general or any other lawyer) to provide the state with frank and fearless advice.

In this context, there is simply no risk of the same chilling effect that might affect an individual when they are deciding whether to get advice. And even if there were a possible chilling effect, the fact that governments do change (this one could change quite soon) means that a privilege does not avoid the problem. Subsequent governments, or subsequent leaders of the same government, are always free to waive privilege in the advice if this one wont. Put simply, no one in government ever has a complete assurance of confidentiality in the legal advice they obtain on behalf of government.

None of this is to deny that there is an important role for confidentiality in the effective working of the state. The limits of that principle should be, and are, set out in freedom of information laws. Nor does anyone doubt the need for a privilege for all persons involved in litigation, including governments. But for the government to claim there is an important principle at stake in asserting privilege against the country is untenable. This is all the more so where the countrys elected representatives have passed a parliamentary motion demanding disclosure of that advice.

Andrew Higgins is an associate professor of civil procedure at the University of Oxford, and a fellow of Mansfield College. He is an author of a book on legal professional privilegeBrexit Armageddon is almost upon us. In just over a week, our prime ministers botched half-in, half-out, half-baked deal will face its judgement day. No one, and I mean no one, including large swathes of her cabinet, expects parliament to do anything other than vote against it.

Thirty months after David Camerons ill-fated referendum, we are no closer to putting something in front of the people which will bring together our divided country. For that to happen, we need the implementation of Labours 2017 election manifesto, For The Many.

If people think Brexit is the solution to our deep and growing inequality, they are simply asking the wrong question. Only a Jeremy Corbyn-led Labour government can start turning around the fortunes of far too many of our people who have been left behind. Any Brexit at all will accentuate their plight by weakening the economy.

Conservative Central Office hoped the 2016 referendum would draw a line under decades of Tory strife regarding the European Union. It was a miscalculation of gargantuan proportions; the Tory Party now teeters on the brink of a Corn Laws-like split.

Not only did Cameron and his strategists hopelessly fail in their attempt to bring their divided party together, the referendum also created a bitter campaign of xenophobia which has divided the rest of us. From Go Home vans to posters insinuating that Turkish migrants were about to swamp Britain, the poisonous framing of migrants has diminished us as a people and left deep wounds. Sadly, fear, prejudice and hate took centre stage as we debated our future relationship with the EU.

So, our Labour Party is right to whip our MPs to vote against Mays rotten deal. What she is bringing back to Westminster is not based on whats best for our countrys future. Instead, at its heart, it reinforces the prejudices of many Tory Brexiteers.

So far, her rallying call is all about ending freedom of movement. Never mind that this will restrict our ability to work, live and love in more than 30 countries across Europe. Our children are unlikely to thank the Tories for their myopic choice. Its not good enough to have our future relationship with the EU defined by the Tories narrow narrative  immigration, immigration, immigration. And no sane economist thinks that Brexit is in our economic interests.

Mays botched Brexit job also fails to safeguard workers rights and environmental standards, contrary to the prime ministers taking back control rhetoric. Brexit removes our say  we are rendered voiceless.

Thankfully, Jeremy Corbyn has got the measure of May on all this. Thats why all our Labour MPs must follow him into the division lobby to sink it without trace. Theres simply no excuse for any of them to line up with the government  no room for traitors. Our movement doesnt forget or absolve those who get into bed with a Tory government, particularly one which has imposed the needless misery of austerity on millions of our citizens.

So once we have the vote in parliament and Mays deal goes down, lets strain every sinew to bring this wretched government down with it  nothing else will do.

However, if the Tories continue putting their own sectional interests before those of the country by not calling a general election, Labour must support giving the public the chance to force a no Brexit scenario.

John McDonnells recent comments about a Final Say referendum have been very encouraging but sadly, I dont buy his inevitability theory. Lurking in the background is the Tories Plan B  Norway Plus.

This is something which appears to be uniting Tory Brexiteers and Remainers alike. This option is also gathering steam. The Norway Plus option already curries favour with the SNP, while the DUP has also said it could live with it.

Beyond doubt Norway Plus, other than no Brexit at all, is the least damaging option on offer  a pointless-in-name-only Brexit. It provides frictionless trade, full access to the single market and no hard border in Ireland.

On the face of it, many MPs from across the political spectrum may be tempted to take this route. However, no party of the left can accept a proposition which makes us a rule-taker forever and a day.

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This is all about Brussels taking full control in return for our greater economic well-being. Yet it doesnt have to be this way. Labour must seize the moment before Tory mutineers put their Plan B to the Commons.

Our party, the peoples party, must give the British public the chance to be able to grasp the best deal on offer  and that will always be no Brexit at all.

Manuel Cortes is general secretary of the TSSA rail unionThe RNLI lifeboat spent almost 12 hours at sea rescuing three fishermen on Monday (RNLI)

An RNLI team from Co Mayo spent nearly 12 hours at sea rescuing three fishermen after their boat broke down.

The lifeboat was launched at 4am on Monday following a request from the Irish Coast Guard.

The volunteer team were requested to go to the aid of three fishermen on board a 10-metre vessel that had got into difficulty 38 miles from Ballyglass.

The lifeboat, under Coxswain James Mangan along with four other crew members, launched immediately and made its way to the scene in Donegal Bay.

The fishing boat got into difficulty after it had fouled its propeller.

Weather conditions at the time were good and when the lifeboat crew arrived on scene they assessed that all on board were safe and well, before working with the fishermen to establish a towline.

They then began the slow journey to Killybegs in Co Donegal where they arrived at 10.30am.

Following a short break, the lifeboat crew began their return journey back to Ballyglass, arriving at the lifeboat station and preparing the lifeboat for service again at 3.30pm.

Padraic Sheeran, Ballyglass RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, hailed the crew on both boats for their quick thinking.

The fishermen did the right thing this morning, raising the alarm when they got into trouble and we were delighted to be able to help them return to shore safely, he said.

This was an early morning call-out for our volunteers who got out of their beds to respond to their pagers and make their way to the scene.

Given where the boat had got into difficulty into Donegal Bay, by the time we reached the scene and towed the vessel safely into Killybegs and made the passage back, our crew had spent 11-and-a-half hours at sea.

This is what they are trained for and prepared to do but their efforts today are commendable, and I would like to thank our volunteer team for their willingness, time and dedication.The move, prompted by Brexit, has been in train since last year, when the institution revealed that it had selected Dublin as its European hub. Photo: iStock

Bank of America Merrill Lynch has completed the cross-border merger of its UK banking unit with its Ireland-based arm, making Dublin the hub for its main European banking entity.

The move, prompted by Brexit, has been in train since last year, when the institution revealed that it had selected Dublin as its European hub.

The announcement was a coup for the Government in its battle to lure financial services business to Ireland as it vied with cities such as Frankfurt, Luxembourg and Amsterdam for a post-Brexit jobs dividend.

About 80pc of the 125 roles being moved to the new Bank of America Merrill Lynch hub are based in Dublin, with the remainder scattered across continental Europe.

The hub is headed by chief executive Bruce Thompson, a Bank of America veteran who's a former group chief financial officer and head of risk at the institution.

He said the Dublin operation is "world-class", and combines both international and local talent.

"We now stand ready to serve our clients seamlessly in their final preparations for Brexit and for the long term," he said.

Chair of the combined unit Anne Finucane said that the hub was a "critical component" of the bank's Brexit preparations.

Ms Finucane is vice chairman at Bank of America.

Following the merger, Bank of America Merrill Lynch now employs more than 800 people in Ireland.Uphill battle: British Prime Minister Theresa May at the G20 leaders summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on Saturday. photo: Reuters

The prospect of British Prime Minister Theresa May seeing her government toppled on the back of the Brexit deal is increasing as the key vote edges closer.

The DUP, which underpins her minority administration, is set to join forces with the Labour Party and other opposition parties in a bid to have the UK attorney general's legal advice on Brexit made public.

It comes as Labour indicated it will call a no-confidence motion in the House of Commons if the Brexit deal is rejected on December 11.

Hopes that Mrs May's persistent efforts to sell her deal, including the Irish backstop, will result in a surge of MPs favouring it over a no-deal scenario are fading.

Labour Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer said it was "inevitable" that Labour will bring a motion of no-confidence in the government if parliament rejects the Brexit agreement.

"If she's lost a vote of this significance after two years of negotiation, then it is right that there should be a general election," Mr Starmer told Sky News.

However, environment secretary Michael Gove, who is a Brexiteer, said the argument for the deal can still be won, even though "it is challenging".

"We have got to recognise that if we don't vote for this, the alternatives are no deal or no Brexit," Mr Gove said.

MPs are set to begin this week with a row over the confidential advice provided to the prime minister by Attorney General Geoffrey Cox.

The British government promised last month to show parliament the legal advice "in full". However, this has now been scaled back to a statement by Mr Cox.

Mr Starmer said Labour would accuse the government of being in contempt of parliament if it does not release all of the AG's input.

A refusal to publish the text could trigger "a historic constitutional row that puts parliament in direct conflict with the executive", he said.

A key legal issue is how the UK can get out of a "backstop" provision that would keep the country in a customs union with the EU to guarantee an open border on this island.

Pro-Brexit MPs say the backstop could leave the UK tied to the EU indefinitely.

Meanwhile, in Dublin Fine Gael and Fianna Fail are at odds over plans for handling a no-deal scenario.

Fianna Fail's justice spokesman Jim O'Callaghan has said the time has come for the Government to reveal what contingency plans are in place for the Border region.

"Now no one wants a hard Border but there are going to be customs checks and if there are customs checks there is going to be smuggling, and if there's smuggling there has to be policing."

He questioned how many extra gardai would be deployed to the Border if the UK crashes out of the EU.

"We need the Government of this country to state that there is a contingency plan in place. We are going to need to recruit more gardai, and recruit them immediately for the purposes of being prepared for a hard Brexit. It is a serious possibility," he told RTE.

However, Fine Gael's Neale Richmond criticised the Fianna Fail TD for talking up the worst-case scenario. "It is absolutely reckless therefore to hear a senior Fianna Fail spokesman undermine this ratification process with calls of additional customs and policing allocations for the Border.

"For the Irish Government to plan for customs posts in advance of Brexit would be a wilful abandonment of the hard work gone in so far, as well as roughshod treatment of the Good Friday Agreement," he said.On a whistle-stop tour of Newtownards late last week, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Karen Bradley swept into Lakeland Dairies' factory, which bosses say exports 99.9pc of its produce outside Northern Ireland, and where chief executive Michael Hanley said that it would be the company's preference "that there was no Brexit."

Lakeland Dairies brings together over 750 family farms producing 600m litres of milk in Northern Ireland, employing 225 people at Newtownards and supporting some 700 further jobs among suppliers and contractors across Northern Ireland.

About 15pc of the products from the Newtownards factory are destined for Europe.

Mr Hanley said that approximately 30pc of the firm's total produce was destined for Europe, describing it as the "biggest single trading partner or destination for our products".

"Our preference would be that there was no Brexit, but the vote has taken place and Brexit is going to go forward in some shape or form," he said.

"The deal that's on the table at the moment is a good deal for the Lakeland Dairies NI business. We export a lot of our product off the island of Ireland and this deal facilitates good exports, continuation of business, and us being able to service our farmers and the farm families in Northern Ireland."

General manager for food service operations Tim Acheson said he believed Lakeland Dairies was "fairly well insulated against job losses, depending on what happens with Brexit."

"You could argue that Lakeland is well-positioned by having operations both that will remain within the EU and which will be in future outside the EU," he said.

"I think from a commercial perspective clarity as quickly as possible would be very important. Certainly a positive outcome in the next couple of weeks would give confidence to our customer base.

"We are already getting questions from our customers about continuity of supply."

He revealed that, after the referendum, the company had the opportunity to halt investment towards its major new 5m packing hall - officially opened by Princess Anne in September - but instead committed to the project.

"The planning application went in before Brexit," he said.

"Whenever we heard about the Brexit decision there was an opportunity to stop the investment programme, but as a business we decided to commit. At this stage there's no concern about job losses - in the last couple of months we've increased the permanent workforce of staff."

Later, it appeared the Bradley charm offensive - which included the Secretary of State donning a blue hairnet, goggles and a white overcoat for a factory tour - had worked.

Post meeting, Mr Hanley said Mrs Bradley was "acutely aware" of the importance of a good Brexit deal for local farmers, dairy and dairy processing businesses.

"The Secretary of State recognised the importance of a business like this to Northern Ireland with all the jobs it's creating, and with buying milk from farm families across Northern Ireland," he said.

"I felt that the critical part for us today was that the Secretary of State recognised the importance of being able to access markets as seamlessly as possible," he continued.AN Bord Pleanala has given the go-ahead to Aughinish Alumina to begin blasting and extracting rock close to the mud ponds at the Askeaton plant.

The decision has been described as reckless by veteran campaigner, Pat Geoghegan of the Cappagh Farmers Support Group who lodged an appeal, with An Bord Pleanala after Limerick City and County Council gave permission for the proposal to the company earlier this year.

What this means is that the company can set explosives just meters from the existing mud ponds that store 50 million plus tonnes of toxic waste, Mr Geoghegan said this Wednesday.

He also claimed that blasting will take place close to the gas line connecting Aughinish to the national grid.

If the explosives breach any part of the embankment or the base of the mud ponds, he warned,  you are looking at the destruction of the Shannon Estuary for decades to come, with the red toxic waste flowing straight from the ponds into the Shannon.

Moreover, he added: This planning decision has taken no account of such an environmental disaster should it happen.

And he pointed out that no separate financial bond or insurance bond had been demanded or put in place to cover such an eventuality.

This could potentially expose the tax payer to millions of euro in damages and clean-up if an accident were to occur, he declared.

He also claimed that permission to blast and extract rock would have a negative impact on those living close to the mud ponds and would further devalue their property.

And he questioned what would happen when the rock had been extracted, to a maximum of 8.5 metres or over 26 feet.. The rock will then be used to heighten the embankments. Will this lead to the storing of even more toxic waste? he asked. And will the craters then be used for a third mud pond?

He reiterated his concern that the red mud, when dried out, could blow on to farms and the wider community.

Earlier this year, An Bord Pleanala refused to hold an oral hearing on the Aughinish proposal, which was requested by the Cappagh Farmers Support Group and supported by 1000 signatures and by Limerick Against Pollution.

On November 13, the board granted permission for a borrow pit to be developed over 4.5 hectares of a seven hectare site for the blasting and extraction of 374 cubic metres of rock over ten years. But the permission comes with certain conditions including that blasting takes place between April and September and an undisclosed sum be paid in development levies to Limerick City and County Council before work can begin.

In making its decision, the board said it had carried out an Environmental Impact Assessment and considered emissions to air, including dust, noise and vibration, setting out particular steps to mitigate these. If these are adhered to, the board stated, the effects on the environment would be acceptable.

The company, An Bord Pleanala also stipulated, is required to seek a review of its Industrial Emissions Licence, which specifies limits and the EPA will carry out monitoring of this.

A request for clarification and comment from Aughinish Alumina remained unanswered.A judge in the UK has warned of the grave consequences of inadequate safety on farms after a young woman died, having caught her hair in a piece of machinery from the 1940s which did not meet modern standards.

Neil Carpenter, 45, was sentenced to four and a half years in prison for manslaughter after he oversaw 'appalling' safety standards at Springfield Farm which led to the death of Lauren Scott.

Miss Scott, 20, was killed when she became entangled in a "dangerous" 540rpm power 1940s take off shaft at the back of a tractor, in an incident which happened on March 4 last year.

A plastic sleeve which should have covered the spinning PTO was dented and exposed the shaft - and would have cost just 75 to replace, the trial heard.

The jury was told the milling machine it powered was also "antiquated and dangerous."

Carpenter, of Dawlish, Devon, said he was working in the stables when Lauren activated the PTO and tractor without his permission, but when police examined Lauren's phone they found crucial footage which showed him sat in the tractor probably operating the mill shortly before she died.

The prosecution in his trial at Exeter Crown Court said it was proof Carpenter used the mill that day and was criminally responsible for her death.

Mr Justice James Dingemans said the PTO posed an obvious risk of entrapment and death.

The judge added: "He was happy to farm using old machinery and this created a wholly avoidable risk of death. But he didn't process that risk."

"No sentence which I can pass will reflect the loss suffered and will continue to suffer by Lauren Scott's family."

He paid tribute to the quiet dignity Miss Scotts family and hoped the trial would remind everyone of the dangers of inadequate safety on farms.

Miss Scott was described as a bright and sensible young woman who loved animals. She worked at Pets Corner in Powderham Castle and for five years at Newton Abbot racecourse as a horse catcher.

She would regularly travel from her home to help Carpenter with his pigs, cows and chickens. Miss Scott died when she was caught by her hair and clothes in the PTO shaft. The effect was instantaneous and catastrophic.

The plastic sleeve, which should have covered the PTO, was broken and left the knuckles of the shaft exposed.

When a health and safety officer visited Springfield Farm he found standards were 'lamentable' and placed prohibition notices on 11 items of machinery.

Det Insp Steve Davies, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: "Neil Carpenter ran his farm with a complete disrespect for safety and which ultimately cost the life of Lauren Scott.

His basic approach to health and safety showed a flagrant disregard for regulations that are there to protect individuals working at farms from injury and death..

Ann Hampshire for the Crown Prosecution Service said: " Neil Carpenter had a duty of care to ensure that the environment and equipment to which she had access was safe. His failings in this respect were serious enough that they amounted to a crime.

HSE inspector Simon Jones said: "At the centre of this trial was the grossly inadequate guarding of a Power Take Off (PTO) shaft'. It is now over 60 years since the law was introduced requiring guarding on PTOs. The guarding standards on a PTO are easily understood and haven't changed in all of those 60 years.

"It is inconceivable that a farmer such as Neil Carpenter would not know what those standards were and what the horrific consequences would have been if anyone became entangled on a PTO on his farm.

"The guarding on this PTO was utterly appalling. Had it been properly guarded then Lauren Scott would not have been able to become entangled; such a guard would have cost as little as 75."

Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021]Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has said that he has no immediate plans to change the law regarding trespass on farmland.

His decision is in the wake of concerns raised by the Irish Farmer's Association, that if farmers identify people trespassing on their land, it is not considered a criminal offence.

Speaking in the Dail on the issue, Minister Flanagan said that the general legal position in respect of trespass is that it is a civil wrong and, for the most part, can be addressed by means of a civil remedy through the courts.

He said he acknowledged the interest of various farm and rural organisations, particularly the IFA, on this issue. However, he said there are already significant legislative provisions and penalties in place relating to trespass.

The Minister said the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, contains provisions specifically relating to the unauthorised entry onto and occupation of land, including farmland.

He said the law provides for offences relating to illegal trespass and occupation of land which result in a range of specified adverse consequences.

Such land includes privately-owned land and public land provided or maintained by a statutory body. The legislation empowers An Garda Siochana to direct trespassers to leave the land concerned and, if necessary, remove any object belonging to them from the occupied land.

A person who is guilty of an offence under this part of the act is liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to 4,000 or a term of imprisonment, or both, the Minister said.

He also highlighted the the Prohibition of Forcible Entry and Occupation Act 1971 which he said also contains provisions relating to trespass.

Under this Act it is an offence to forcibly enter land, including buildings, or remain in forcible occupation, or to encourage or advocate the commission of such an offence. A person found guilty under the act is liable to a fine, a term of imprisonment or both.

Fianna Fails Spokesperson on Justice, Jim OCallaghan said the Ministers comments do not take into account the reality of what is happening on farmland.

Farmers find that when people trespass on their land, they have no remedy in the criminal law.

When they contact members of An Garda Siochana, they are told that officers can only intervene if there is a threat to commit a criminal offence or if criminal damage has been done.

The type of remedy that farmers want is to be able to tell people trespassing on their land to leave and that there will be consequences if they do not do so.

They want there to be consequences for people for being on their land, he said.

Deputy OCallaghan said that while there may be a civil remedy available it that requires farmers to institute proceedings against unknown individuals who then have to be brought before the courts.

Farmers have to apply for injunctions before a civil court restraining those persons from coming back onto their land. That is a very complex and detailed process.

Farmers require greater protection than that being afforded to them at present, he said.

In September, a Dublin farmer suffered a violent and attack when he confronted a number of men who were trespassing on his land.

Father-of-three Pat Walsh (47), from Lispopple, Swords, suffered four cracked ribs, a dislocated shoulder and needed stitches to his face after he was kicked repeatedly on the ground about 150 metres from his home.

It followed another incident in which a farmer in St Margarets, who found men illegally dumping on his land, went to ring the gardai, but was run over by the van as they struck the gate.

In the same area, another farmer approached men with dogs on his land and he was also assaulted and threatened at knifepoint.

Farmer John Smith told the senior gardai at a recent meeting on rural crime that if they dont take efficient measures to combat rural crime then someone will take the law into their own hands, referencing the Padraig Nally-John Frog Ward case in 2004.

If you dont take some sort of action, youre going to have what happened in the west of Ireland, he said.

Somebody is going to lose the head and then you will have to deal with the guy that took action. If you dont nip this thing in the bud, thats whats going to happen.A selection of 'food zones' are the big winners from the allocation of 30m in new funding for regional employers.

Business Minister Heather Humphreys will today reveal the recipients of the Regional Enterprise Development Fund.

It provides money to enterprises involved in food, pharma, design, marine, engineering, bio economy and disruptive technologies.

Among those getting funding today is the successful Ludgate Hub, which is to be awarded almost 2m as part of a project to create 500 direct jobs and 1,000 indirect jobs in West Cork by 2020.

A project in Leitrim will receive funding to develop a new 9000sq ft Food Enterprise Zone, with the creation of 50 jobs. The existing Food Hub in Drumshanbo is full and has a waiting list. It is already home to The Shed Distillery, where GunPowder Gin is produced.

Unlike other schemes, the funding is allocated on a regional basis as opposed to a county basis.

The focus is on projects that will have a "big impact on enterprise development and sustainable job creation".An Irish businessman who is serving a jail sentence in Switzerland after being convicted of embezzlement, remains under investigation here by the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement (ODCE).

One-time Entrepreneur of the Year Peter Conlon pleaded guilty at a court in Zurich last week to the misappropriation of 3.8m by Ammado, which had developed a system to allow people to donate to charities.

Conlon was convicted under a so-called abridged court procedure on multiple counts of embezzlement and sentenced to three years' imprisonment, with two of those conditionally deferred.

But as he had been held in custody since his arrest at Zurich airport on December 22 last year, he is due for release shortly before Christmas.

The ruling in Zurich also makes him liable for the costs of the investigation there and the costs of legal proceedings including his defence.

To part cover those costs Swiss authorities confiscated CHF3,197 (2,800) from a Swiss bank account and CHF53,318 by cashing in a Zurich Life Insurance policy.

The separate ODCE investigation is looking at the same issues. It was set up here as a result of a complaint by a liquidator who had been appointed last January by the Revenue Commissioners to Ammado's main Irish company, Pembroke Dynamic Internet Services, over a 400,000 debt.

Liquidator Myles Kirby, of Kirby Healy chartered accountants, discovered that at least 3.8m intended for charities had not been passed on to them.

Reckless

He accused Conlon in the High Court of reckless trading, fraudulent trading and misfeasance in running the company.

The High Court granted a freezing order, preventing Conlon, or anyone linked to him, moving or selling his assets anywhere in the world.

At least 800 charities were contacted and told money donated to them through Conlon's company website might be missing.

The Irish charities ranged from Trocaire and Concern to parish-level GAA clubs and local animal shelters.

In his affidavit to the High Court, Mr Kirby said the website took in donations of 5.8m between March 2016 and September 2017 and took in another 396,000 from December 12, 2017 to January 12, 2018.

Rossa Fanning, SC, for the liquidator, said that in the previous week Mr Kirby had discovered there was a 3.8m deficit in funds that ought to have been remitted to the charities.

The court was told there was only 357,000 in the company's bank account.

Mr Kirby also said he believed Conlon had "demonstrated his intention to dispose of assets and put them beyond my reach".

An investigation was launched by officers from the ODCE, whose staff include officers seconded from the Garda national economic crime bureau.

A spokesman for the ODCE last night declined to comment on the current status of the investigation.

Conlon, who was a winner of the EY entrepreneur of the year award in 2004, moved from Dublin to Switzerland in 2012.To date, Australian investment in Ireland stands at around AU$17bn (11bn). Stock picture

"Significant" work needs to be done to improve Australian businesses' knowledge of the Irish market.

In a report, the Irish Australian Chamber of Commerce said that the island of Ireland is an "attractive" destination for Australian investment.

However, it added that work needs to be done around increasing market knowledge in order for companies to fully consider Ireland's potential as a place to do business.

To date, Australian investment in Ireland stands at around AU$17bn (11bn).

Last year, trade between Australia and the European Union (EU) as a whole was worth more than 70bn, according to the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Common language and availability of a skilled workforce were cited as the main appeal for Australian businesses when considering investing in Ireland, the report from the chamber found.

Also of priority to businesses when considering Ireland was the country's ongoing membership of the EU, as well as its growing economy.

"In a post-Brexit Europe, Ireland represents an attractive gateway to the EU for Australian businesses and reciprocally, Australia should be the preferred option for Irish businesses seeking new markets in the Asia-Pacific region," Barry Corr, chief executive of the Irish Australian Chamber of Commerce, said.

Among the other findings from the survey was strong support for an Australian-EU free trade agreement.China has agreed to "reduce and remove" tariffs below the 40pc level that Beijing is currently charging on US-made vehicles, US President Donald Trump said, as a trade war truce between the two countries gathers pace, cheering markets.

Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to hold off on new tariffs during talks in Argentina on Saturday, declaring a truce following months of escalating tensions on trade and other issues.

In a meeting lasting two and a half hours, the United States agreed not to raise tariffs further on Jan. 1, while China agreed to purchase more agricultural products from U.S. farmers immediately.

The two sides also agreed to begin discussions on how to resolve issues of concern, including intellectual property protection, non-tariff trade barriers and cyber theft.

But the White House also said the existing 10pc tariffs on $200bn worth of Chinese goods would be lifted to 25 percent if no deal was reached within 90 days, once again setting the clock ticking.

Tweeting on Sunday night, Trump said: "China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40pc". He gave no details.

Chinese regulators did not respond to requests for comment on what would be a potential boon for automakers including Tesla Inc and BMW which manufacture in the United States for export to China..

Neither country had mentioned auto tariffs in their official read-outs of the Trump-Xi meeting.

Speaking in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang reiterated comments from the government's top diplomat State Councillor Wang Yi who said on Saturday the ultimate goal was the lifting of all tariffs.

"The consensus reached by the leaders of our two countries is to halt the imposition of new tariffs and at the same time the two sides' leaders instructed the economics teams of both sides to intensify talks towards the removal of all tariffs that have been imposed," Geng told a daily news briefing.

Chinese shares, commodities and the yuan currency surged even as uncertainty remained about the deal.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite index closed 2.6pc higher at 2,654.80 points and the blue-chip CSI300 index jumped 2.8pc. Both posted their best daily gains since Nov. 2.

Still, analysts cautioned the deal may have only bought some time for more wrangling over deeply divisive trade and policy issue, and said China's economy will continue to cool regardless under the weight of weakening domestic demand.

"This is a relief rally," said Paul Kitney, chief equity strategist at Daiwa Capital Markets in Hong Kong.

The agreement "is not a ceasefire, it's just a de-escalation. The existing tariffs are still having a negative impact on the Chinese economy, they haven't gone away".

China's factory activity grew slightly in November, a private survey showed on Monday, though new export orders extended their decline in a further blow to the sector already hurt by the Sino-U.S. trade frictions.

"It's 90 days. It's nothing and it doesn't really make any difference. People have already started to reconsider their sourcing arrangements," said Larry Sloven, who has been sourcing and manufacturing in China for three decades.

"Nobody wants to live in a false reality."

Widely read Chinese tabloid the Global Times, published by the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily, warned people had to have realistic expectations.

"The Chinese public needs to keep in mind that China-U.S. trade negotiations fluctuate. China's reform and opening-up's broad perspective recognises that the rest of the world does things differently," it said in a Monday editorial.

DIFFERING ACCOUNTS

There are also differences in the Chinese and U.S. accounts of what was agreed.

The White House said China was "open to approving the previously unapproved" deal for U.S. company Qualcomm Inc to acquire Netherlands-based NXP Semiconductors "should it again be presented".

However, Qualcomm said in a statement that it considers the matter closed.

The Qualcomm issue was not addressed by the Chinese government's top diplomat at a news conference in Buenos Aires on Saturday night.

In July, Qualcomm - the world's biggest smartphone-chip maker - walked away from a $44bn deal to buy NXP after failing to secure Chinese regulatory approval, becoming a high-profile victim of the China-U.S. trade dispute.

There was also caution from the U.S. business community.

William Zarit, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, said the outcome of the meeting was "as good as we could have expected" considering the complex issues involved.

"But probably the most challenging area to resolve - China's discriminatory economic policies based on state support and domestic market protectionism - needs to be addressed in order to level the playing field and have a sustainable commercial relationship based on fairness and reciprocal treatment."

A senior official at Chinese energy giant CNOOC told Reuters that China was not likely to increase energy and industrial product purchases from the United States by a significant amount in 90 days unless there are mandatory instructions from government forcing companies to buy.

"Trump's policy has been so unpredictable that Chinese companies are being very cautious on buying U.S. commodities with or without tariffs. The risks are simply too big and companies have became more averse to risks now," the official added.

"I am expecting the United States to increase tariffs on China after 90 days despite the efforts and goodwill from China."Emmanuel Macron is the largest political force in Europe today, but he is a force now hemmed in, constrained, trapped.

The hurricane of his success last year - the defeat of the far-right, the assembly victory of his newly-minted party made him imperial in his power. That power now is much diminished, as is Europe itself. Yet though Mr Macron's ambitions are curtailed and his power sapped, he has taught the world some useful lessons.

The hurricane that was early Macron is now a wind blowing hard against him. His determination to supercharge a deep integration of the European Union has had nowhere to go for some months, and not just because the indispensable partner in the endeavour, Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel, is so weakened.

Last week, the 'Financial Times' revealed a quarrel between Dutch Finance Minister Wopke Hoekstra and his French counterpart Bruno Le Maire - in which the French minister charged Mr Hoekstra with leading a group of small northern countries dubbed the "new Hanseatic League" in opposition to closer financial integration - with, apparently, the quiet approval of Germany.

Mr Macron's latest challenge has been a series of strong protests against a government-mandated increase in fuel prices. He has flatly defied the resistance so far. This in spite of the fact the demonstrators appear to have the support of a majority of French citizens, and both the populist right and left use the protests to build their bases.

Ironically, Mr Macron's largest success is to have illuminated two important hypocrisies. The European Union is committed to ever-closer union and movement towards what would be a European federal state. But, as the spat between the French and Dutch finance ministers showed, many of the rest of the EU's states increasingly recoil from that future.

At some point, the union must recognise that its official rhetoric is out of kilter with its members' wishes - which are that sovereignty, especially in economic matters, remains with their governments. The more Mr Macron pushes, the clearer that becomes.

The fuel protests also reveal a still larger hypocrisy - one that speaks directly to how we live now, and how our children and grandchildren will live. In an impassioned speech, the French president sought to reach out to the protesters, promised to take into account their anger and to change the way in which the government relates to them - but said he would not change course "because the policy direction is right and necessary".

Mr Macron even attached a sting to his refusal to change, accusing his fellow citizens of wishing to have their cake and eat it. You cannot, he said, be at once for saving the environment and then protest rising fuel prices. Widening the charge still further, he added: "You cannot chant in the same slogan: 'cut taxes and build more creches, schools'."

This shines a harsh light on the disassociation between agreeing on what is good for our societies (creches, schools) and for our world (saving the environment) on the one hand - and on the other, protecting our self-interest to the point of taking to the streets.

Decisive action on carbon emissions at both official and personal levels falls into the hypocrisy trap. Even those who agree human conduct is the driver of global warming still want to drive gas-guzzling SUVs and are willing to march for low fuel prices.

Mr Macron has not won his most ambitious aim, to re-energise the EU. He courts greater unpopularity by refusing to back down before the fuel protests. But he has taught a useful lesson: that high-sounding phrases and an apparent near-consensus which endorse ever-closer European union and ever-smaller carbon emissions are not serving their purpose.

If they are to do so, the goals of the EU must be modified, and the need for action on climate change must be more urgently pursued. Populist politics expresses real problems stemming from gross inequalities and cultural divides. It also contains dangerous illusions. Any new political order has to recognise the first and combat the second. (Reuters)Irish produced film The Favourite has landed a record 10 gongs at the British Independent Film Awards.

The film, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, and produced by Element Pictures, had been nominated for 13 awards.

Olivia Colman won the best actress award for her role as Queen Anne while Rachel Weisz was named best supporting actress for her role as the Queen's favourite.

The film also won eight other awards including best independent film, best director for Lanthimos and best screenplay.

Colman said the cast are now friends for life after she, Weisz and Emma Stone bonded on the set of the period comedy-drama.

If you love what you do and other people love it, you couldnt be more proud. This is almost too good, too nice," she added.

The film charts the later years of Queen Anne, and the internal politics of her court and coterie of female favourites.

Director Lanthimos' previous films The Lobster and The Killing of a Sacred Deer, had also been produced by Element.

Expand Close Emma Stone, left, with The Favourite co-star Olivia Colman at the British Independent Film Awards (Matt Crossick/PA) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Emma Stone, left, with The Favourite co-star Olivia Colman at the British Independent Film Awards (Matt Crossick/PA)

Elsewhere, Joe Cole won the best actor award for his portrayal of an English boxer in a Thai prison in A Prayer Before Dawn.

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He said: It was a lot of prep. I had to learn to box. Learn about addiction.

I wanted that challenge. Im in no rush to train like a lunatic and get the crap kicked out of me by Thai guys day in, day out. I was getting battered every day.

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It felt like you earned your money at the end of the day. Most of acting is relatively chilled. This wasnt. On the plane home I felt very happy.

The religious and romantic drama Disobedience was nominated in several categories, and Alessandro Nivola claimed the best supporting actor award for his portrayal of a north London Orthodox Jewish man.

He visited the Hendon community in order to avoid making a hash of the role.

Dark drama You Were Never Really Here won two awards, while Dame Judi Dench claimed an honour for her work in cinema, as did Felicity Jones for her recent work.

Additional reporting by Press AssociationThe Favourite has swept the British Independent Film Awards with a record 10 honours.

Olivia Colman led the cast in the female-focused story of Queen Anne and her court, claiming a best actress award in the process.

Co-star Rachel Weisz was named best supporting actress for her role as the Queens favourite, and the British production was honoured with eight other awards including best independent film, best director and best screenplay.

Colman said the cast are now friends for life after she, Weisz and Emma Stone bonded on the set of the period comedy-drama.

She added: If you love what you do and other people love it, you couldnt be more proud. This is almost too good, too nice.

The film charts the later years of Queen Anne, and the internal politics of her court and coterie of female favourites.

Expand Close Emma Stone, left, with The Favourite co-star Olivia Colman at the British Independent Film Awards (Matt Crossick/PA) / Facebook

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Joe Cole won the best actor award for his portrayal of an English boxer in a Thai prison in A Prayer Before Dawn.

He said: It was a lot of prep. I had to learn to box. Learn about addiction.

Video of the Day

I wanted that challenge. Im in no rush to train like a lunatic and get the crap kicked out of me by Thai guys day in, day out. I was getting battered every day.

Expand Close Joe Cole with the best actor award at the British Independent Film Awards (Matt Crossick/PA) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Joe Cole with the best actor award at the British Independent Film Awards (Matt Crossick/PA)

It felt like you earned your money at the end of the day. Most of acting is relatively chilled. This wasnt. On the plane home I felt very happy.

The religious and romantic drama Disobedience was nominated in several categories, and Alessandro Nivola claimed the best supporting actor award for his portrayal of a north London Orthodox Jewish man.

He visited the Hendon community in order to avoid making a hash of the role.

Dark drama You Were Never Really Here won two awards, while Dame Judi Dench claimed an honour for her work in cinema, as did Felicity Jones for her recent work.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!His plays and sonnets have enriched humanity beyond measure and left us a literary legacy still performed and read around the world to this day.

But it has now been claimed there was an unknown side to William Shakespeare - that of political commentator and champion of England's oppressed Catholic minority.

The Elizabethan playwright is often regarded as being largely apolitical, with little to say on contemporary politics, but a scholar has argued that he was in fact deeply engaged with one of the biggest issues of the day.

Clare Asquith, the Countess of Oxford and Asquith, has suggested that his early epic poem The Rape of Lucrece is, at nearly 2,000 lines, neither a poem nor is about the rape of a Roman noblewoman, but is in fact a political pamphlet decrying the persecution of the country's Catholics.

She has reinterpreted the 1594 work as an extended account of the Act of Supremacy of 1534 and the destruction of old Catholic England by Protestants following the establishment of the Church of England under Henry VIII.

The poem is ostensibly about the rape of Lucrece, the devout wife of Collatine, by Tarquin, the son of the king of Rome. In the story - first told by the Roman poet Ovid and later painted by Rembrandt - this outrageous crime inspires an insurrection led by Collatine's friend Brutus, leading to the foundation of the first Roman republic.

But in Lady Asquith's reading, the violence and grief recounted in the poem are code for the destruction of the Catholic church's monasteries, the selling off of its land and artworks, the demolition of church ornament and the shutting of charitable almshouses.

"His audience would have understood the references contained in the poem, whether it was the king, the court or its victims," she said. "The Catholics and the reformers were the victims and he uses terminology that would have provided comfort to them and makes a plea to the court for tolerance.

"The Rape of Lucrece is an extended allegory for what happened to England, to the Catholics and the reformers at the hands of the newly established church and the Privy Council, led by William Cecil, the man who set up the first secret services and had a file on pretty much everyone."

Lady Asquith speculates that the poem may have been commissioned by the Earl of Essex, who championed religious tolerance.

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She lays out her radical interpretation in her new book Shakespeare and the Resistance: The Earl of Southampton, the Essex Rebellion and the Poems that Challenged Tudor Tyranny, which was published last week.

The persecution of England's Catholics followed the act of Parliament that recognised Henry VIII as the Supreme Head of the Church of England and established the Anglican Church as the spiritual authority of the nation. Lady Asquith first began exploring the hidden subtext of Shakespeare's plays after noting the coded messages in plays by Soviet dissidents while her husband Raymond, Earl of Oxford and Asquith, served as a diplomat in Moscow during the Cold War. She says it has long been difficult for many literary critics to recognise the political nature of Shakespeare's work.

"He was far from apolitical and we only think he was because we don't know what the sides were," she said. "He was, in a veiled way, referring to the political disputes of the time. The Rape of Lucrece is about life under a police state."

TelegraphMore than 110 incidents of tram or train 'surfing' have been recorded by Irish Rail and on Luas services over the past four years.

The potentially lethal activity involves a person holding on to the outside of a carriage as it moves.

It came to prominence in October when 20-year-old Rebecca Kelly received 550,000 in compensation after suffering a severe brain injury after clinging on to a Luas carriage.

Ms Kelly, who admitted she had done a "silly thing" when she was aged 13, fell back onto the tracks and hit her head and had to be pulled out of the way of an oncoming tram.

Figures released under FOI reveal how there have been 35 cases of tram surfing on Luas services in the past four years.

The incidents are split almost evenly between the Red and Green lines, according to the figures, with an average of four a year on the Red Line that connects the Point with Tallaght and Saggart. Tram surfing on the Green Line, which runs north-south, has been more sporadic with no incidents recorded in 2015 and 13 reports last year.

During evidence in Rebecca Kelly's case, Luas gave evidence that the placing of metal strips to prevent gripping between the door and the body of a carriage had helped deter tram surfers. However, it has not managed to eradicate the problem, although Transdev - which operates Luas - said the number of incidents of tram surfing, sometimes also called 'scutting', was low.

Dervla Brophy of Transdev said: "Tram surfing is a dangerous activity and can lead to serious injury and can be fatal.

"We have had a very small number of incidences...and all staff are trained to be vigilant, observe and report. The public have reported [cases] too.

"Any activity or even potential concern that is reported - trams will be stopped, security and or gardai called.

"It's critically important to stress how serious 'surfing' is - the risk of serious injury is very high."

Transdev said it delivers school talks and the dangers of 'scutting' and 'surfing' are made clear at these and Garda community forums.

Irish Rail also released figures showing there had been 87 incidents of train surfing since 2016. The number remained relatively consistent at around 30 per year, with the problem almost exclusively on Dart services (75 incidents).

Spokesman Barry Kenny said it was a "continuing issue". "On-board staff, station staff and security personnel are vigilant in ensuring we respond with security or Garda support when it occurs."

Irish Rail modified the original Dart fleet of 76 carriages during refurbishment to make headlight units more difficult to grasp onto. Future fleets will come with preventative measures as part of the design.Visionary: Retired principal John Curran, who had moved to South Africa to work with the Mellon Educate charity, was found with stab wounds

THE alleged killer of Irish charity worker John Curran was today remanded in custody to be held inside one of the worlds most feared prisons.

Congolese born Mitspa Onyoka, 24, tried desperately through his court interpreter to be granted bail to avoid the notorious South African jail.

But his application at Cape Town Magistrates Court was turned down after prosecutor Leon Snyman revealed Onyoka was an illegal immigrant.

The court was told that the cleaner was also facing extremely serious charges of murder and aggravated robbery following the death of Mr Curran, 60.

And with no fixed address the prosecutor strongly opposed bail for Onyoka for fear he could abscond.

The popular Dublin born father-of-four was found with multiple stab wounds to the head, face and body in a large pool of blood at his Cape Town flat.

Onyoka was arrested after a swoop at his place of work on November 23 after CCTV photographs were released by murder squad detectives.

Prosecutor Mr Snyman said: The prosecuting officer has indicated that the accused is not welcome at the address he was living at when arrested.

There are no outstanding warrants on him and no previous arrests but Home Affairs have no records of him being in this country after 2015.

We are opposed to the release of the accused he said.

The court advised Onyoka that he had little chance of being granted bail but he insisted on being allowed to make an application to the court.

Magistrate Joe Magele granted the alleged killer permission and remanded him in custody until the application can be heard before him on January 23.

He was led down to the cells awaiting transportation to Pollsmoor Prison shaking his head.

Onyoka last appeared before the court in underpants and a t shirt but today wore a pair of grey slacks, a green t-shirt, windcheater and flip flops.

Originally built for 4,336 men it holds over 7,500 prisoners and cells built for 30 people often have up to 80 prisoners sleeping in bunks and on floors.

Violence inside is a way of life with murders and gang rapes a common occurrence and with inmates at risk of TB, HIV and Weils Disease.

UK TV actor Ross Kemp did a documentary inside Pollsmoor and said after going inside: "It is a human zoo. I am frightened. Not even the warders in here are safe".

Mr Curran had spent two years working in Cape Town as the Director of Education for the the much respected Irish NGO Mellon Educate based there.

His task was to oversee the building of thousands of homes for the poor and the refurbishment and building of schools to educate children.

Mr Currans contract ended in September and he had taken two months off to enjoy a farewell holiday to South Africa before heading home.

The former teacher had moved into a flat in a secure apartment complex in Cape Town which he had been renting until he flew back to Dublin.

But on November 7 he was found dead after a female friend let herself into his flat and found his mutilated body lying on the floor behind the door.

A memorial service for Mr Curran was held in Dublin last month.Niece of the late Anthony OMahony, Ann OCarroll (centre) speaks to the media outside the Central Criminal Court in Dublin today after Michael Ferris was sentenced to five years. Ferris was found guilty of the manslaughter of Anthony OMahony (73) in Rattoo, Ballyduff, Co Kerry, on April 4, 2017. Photo: Laura Hutton/Collins.

A Co Kerry farmer who killed his neighbour with a teleporter has been jailed for five years.

Michael Ferris (63) "deprived Anthony O'Mahony of his life in appalling circumstances", a judge said, adding that the deceased man had suffered "horrific, horrible" injuries.

The family of Mr O'Mahony has said that the pain of his death has now been "exacerbated by the leniency" of his sentence.

Michael Ferris (63) was jailed for five years this morning for the manslaughter of his neighbour John Anthony O'Mahony (73).

Outside the Criminal Courts of Justice, Mr O'Mahony's family spoke out about the leniency of the sentence, saying that "justice had not been served".

Ann O'Carroll, the deceased's niece, said in a statement that Mr O'Mahony's good name had been "blackened" during the trial, and he had not been there to defend himself.

Expand Close 03/12/2018. Brother of the late Anthony OMahony, Seamus (centre) leaves the Central Criminal Court in Dublin today after Michael Ferris was sentenced to five years. Ferris was found guilty of the manslaughter of Anthony OMahony (73) in Rattoo, Ballyduff, Co Kerry, on April 4, 2017. Photo: Laura Hutton/Collins. / Facebook

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Whatsapp 03/12/2018. Brother of the late Anthony OMahony, Seamus (centre) leaves the Central Criminal Court in Dublin today after Michael Ferris was sentenced to five years. Ferris was found guilty of the manslaughter of Anthony OMahony (73) in Rattoo, Ballyduff, Co Kerry, on April 4, 2017. Photo: Laura Hutton/Collins.

The trial had been a "deeply distressing and painful" ordeal.

She said justice had not been served, and given the pre-meditated nature of the killing the just conviction was one of murder.

Expand Close The dispute was over a crow banger. Photo: RTE / Facebook

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Mrs O'Carroll said the family's pain had now been "exacerbated by the leniency of the sentence imposed by the court".

She said that the defendant's legal team had introduced the defence of provocation. To the O'Mahony family this was an attempt to "justify the killing" and it "denigrated the value of Anthony's life".

Mrs O'Carroll said that "victim blaming" had been in the news and had been mentioned in other cases, and this was "another example of it".

She thanked An Garda Siochana, their neighbours and family for their support, adding that they will never get over the "devastating" loss of Anthony.

Anthony OMahonys sister-in-law Margaret OMahony told RTE's Liveline that she "cannot believe" the leniency of the sentence.

It makes us feel that life is not worth anything anymore in this country, that a person can do that to another person and to get such a lenient sentence, I cant understand it.

Expand Close The late Anthony OMahony / Facebook

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He was the most honorable person, straightforward, and he knew what was right and what was wrong. He did what was right all the time."

Mrs O'Mahony recalled how she heard the tragic news that her brother-in-law had passed away.

"My son got a phone call on the morning that some incident had happened. He went out to find out what was happening, and the road was closed. He spoke to the fire brigade and the gardai and got no information. He went to Anthonys home and Anthonys car was not there. He rang his two numbers and got no reply. We were concerned at that point that something had happened to him.

"He came back home to me and we were having a cup of tea wondering what might have happened and we had the local radio station turned on. I heard something on the radio and couldnt hear it, so I turned it up, and I just heard the body of a man at the scene. I said there was somebody dead, whoever it is.

"Next thing our phone rang, and it was someone with condolences, and thats how we heard it."

In October, Ferris was found not guilty of murder but guilty of the manslaughter of John Anthony O'Mahony by a jury at the Central Criminal Court sitting in Tralee.

Ferris had "snapped" over a crow banger, the court had heard.

He told gardai that Mr O'Mahony had been using the "crow banger" for 30 years and had paid no heed to anyone when asked to stop.

Ferris used his teleporter to block a rural road and then drove the prongs of the vehicle into Mr O'Mahony's car, causing him catastrophic injuries.

This morning, Ms Justice Carmel Stewart imposed a six year sentence, suspending the final 12 months for three years.

The judge also backdated the sentence to when Ferris went into custody, in April 2017.

Judge Stewart said it was of "profound regret", not just to the court, but to all residents of Rattoo, that the issue of the noise from the crow banger had not been dealt with in some other way.

She said the court had to look at the degree of provocation, though this was a subjective test.

The judge said that Ferris inflicted "horrific, horrible" injuries on Mr O'Mahony.

Judge Stewart said the "nature and duration of the attack was truly gruesome and horrific" and "defied belief and imagination".

She said that a small token of consolation for the victim's family was that, on the evidence of the Deputy State Pathologist, Dr Margaret Bolster, death was instantaneous.

The judge also said the effect the killing had and continued to have on Mr O'Mahony's family was difficult to quantify.

Mitigating factors in imposing sentence were the defendant's age and previous good character, that he had been described as "gentlemanly" and had co-operated fully with gardai.

He had also admitted unlawfully killing Mr O'Mahony, though that plea had not been accepted by the DPP.

Last Monday, Mr O'Mahony's family said they were devastated at how their brother's good character had been "shredded" during the trial into his death.

In his victim impact statement, Anthony's brother Seamus O'Mahony said he had worked in partnership with the deceased.

He said he had known there was an issue with some locals about the crow banger but he had not known "the extent of the anger".

Mr O'Mahony said no one had ever approached him about it, and if they had "all this could have been avoided" and some arrangement could have been put in place.

The fact that Anthony was killed over a crow banger "beggars belief" he said, in his victim statement which was read into court by his son James.

He also said the family found it difficult to understand what had happened to Anthony as "who would do something so unspeakable over a crow banger".

Mr O'Mahony said his brother was a "decent and honest" man, a "passionate farmer" and a "hard worker".

He said the family will never get over what happened to Anthony. They had lost a brother, uncle and friend in the most "horrific way imaginable".

Particularly devastating for the family was the way Anthony's good character had been "shredded" during the trial, as "only one side" was told.

He said it had been printed in the media that Anthony's neighbours had been living in fear of him, but people had since approached him to say they were hurt by this, and "so many people only had good things to say" about him.

Solicitor for Michael Ferris, Frank Buttimer has described the trial as one of the most unusual and possibly unique cases he has ever been involved in.

Following the sentencing, Mr Buttimer said: As in all these cases, my first thought would be with the family of the deceased, Mr O Mahony, who have suffered a great deal."

Mr Buttimer added that Ferris "regrets deeply what he did".

Asked about criticism by Mr OMahonys relatives about the shredding of his character, Mr Buttimer said the intention was never to blacken the late Mr OMahony. The only strategy available to the defence was that of provocation.

It wasnt to blacken Mr OMahony in any circumstances, Mr Buttimer said.

He added: It was more to tell the relationship between the deceased and our client together with other members of the local community in the context of giving the jury the context of the history between them.

It was a most unusual case, and possibly unique, the solicitor also said: The facts of this case stand out to me as highly unusual.

During the trial, the prosecution alleged that Ferris intentionally rammed Mr OMahonys car with the large prongs of a teleporter on a country road. This caused severe damage to the car and catastrophic injuries to Mr OMahony resulting in his death.

Ferris, of Rattoo, Ballyduff, had denied the murder of tillage farmer John Anthony OMahony (73) at Rattoo on April 4, 2017.

The prosecution had argued the killing had been deliberate. However, the defence said there had been accumulated provocation because of the behaviour of the deceased.

The court heard that Ferris told gardai he drove the forks of his teleporter through the car because there was no other way to stop Mr OMahony using a loud crow banger.

He told gardai after his arrest that the banger, a device used to scare away birds, would wake the dead and had been an issue for 30 years.TWO residents of an apartment complex heard loud laughing seconds after the State alleged the body of a strangled man was dragged down stairs and then thrown into a river.

The claim came at the opening of a Central Criminal Court trial in Cork where Romanian national Ciprian Grozavu (44) denies the murder of Jonathan 'Dukie' Duke (27).

The defendant, when arraigned, told the trial he was: "not guilty, your honour."

Grozavu denies the murder of Mr Duke at Bridge House, Sean Hales Place, Bandon, Co Cork on November 13 2011.

The Romanian, whose nickname is 'Chippy', had been living at Bridge House in the west Cork town, which overlooks the Bandon River, in November 2011.

Tim O'Leary SC, for the State, outlined the prosecution case to Ms Justice Tara Burns and the jury of eight men and three women.

He warned the jury that aspects of the case would be "gruesome".

Mr O'Leary said two men living in Apartment No 2 at Bridge House, Aaron Nolan and Shane O'Driscoll, heard loud noises coming from Apartment No 3 that November evening.

The flat was overhead and occupied by Mr Grozavu.

"They heard a commotion - loud noises coming from No 3. They heard a number of matters occurring," he said.

"It got to the stage where they (the residents of No 2) came out to see what was happening on the landing."

Mr O'Leary said it is the State case that the body of Mr Duke had been dragged down the stairs, out the front door of Bridge House and then thrown into the River Bandon. The body fell around six metres into the river.

Mr O'Leary said evidence from Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster will indicate Mr Duke died from strangulation - and was effectively dead when his body entered the River Bandon.

He told the jury Gardai found the body of Mr Duke underneath Bandon Bridge, a short distance downstream from Bridge House in the River Bandon.

"They (the residents of No 2) were effectively listening to what went on," he said.

"There was a large amount of sounds.

"They heard what was happening....a bumping sound. They heard something that could have been something being brought downstairs. (You may) infer it was the body being dragged down stairs to the front of the house."

Mr O'Leary said the two young occupants of Apartment No 2 then looked out a window by the landing to see the front of the house.

It is the State case that the defendant was at the front of the house accompanied by his on-off girlfriend, Catherine O'Connor.

Mr O'Leary told the jury O'Connor was a co-accused of the defendant but has been convicted of Mr Duke's murder.

"She is not on trial here - it is irrelevant."

"Just because Ms O'Connor has been found guilty of this matter, well, you do not automatically say Mr Grozavu is guilty as well. Not at all. We (prosecution) have to prove the matter. We have to prove all the case - good, bad or indifferent."

Mr O'Leary said that, seconds before the occupants of Apartment No 2 fled Bridge House to raise the alarm, they heard "very loud laughing" from the stairwell as two people came back up the stairs.

When Gardai arrived at the scene minutes later, they found blood marks all along the stairwell.

One Garda found the defendant and O'Connor near Apartment No 3.

"He will talk about his (Grozavu's) state," Mr O'Leary said.

The Garda knew Grozavu by his local nickname of 'Chippy.'

Mr Duke's body was recovered from the river by Gardai and emergency services a short time later.

Grozavu appeared in court wearing a navy blue suit, white shirt and tie.

He did not speak during the hearing beyond acknowledging relatives from Romania who had travelled to Cork for the trial.

The trial is expected to last up to two weeks.Emergency services are at the scene of a suspected gas leak in south Dublin.

Dublin Fire Brigade said that two fire engines from Dun Laoghaire were called to the Cherrywood Business Park, Loughlinstown shortly after 5pm today.

Gas Networks Ireland (GNI) was also requested to attend the incident.

In a statement, GNI said:

"Gas Networks Ireland technical staff are currently assessing the precise cause of the incident.

"No further information is available at present."

More to follow...Former RTE producer Kieran Creaven will be back on our streets next month as he nears the end of a jail sentence for sexual grooming.

The convicted child sex offender was jailed last March for 18 months, but will serve only half that sentence.

Independent.ie has learned that Creavens release date is set for January 8 because he is entitled to standard 50pc remission.

After his release from prison in England, he will serve the remainder of his sentence on licence and could return to Ireland within days.

Expand Close Members of paedophile-hunting group Predator Exposure outside Leeds Crown Court (Peter Powell/PA) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Members of paedophile-hunting group Predator Exposure outside Leeds Crown Court (Peter Powell/PA)

Meanwhile, Creaven is being investigated by gardai after it emerged he accessed child pornography.

If child abuse images are found on his phone and computer, he could face more jail time.

Members of the Garda National Protective Services Bureau and the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau are leading the inquiry.

Facebook has been helping gardai find out who Creaven was talking to.

Many of his friends have broken their ties with the sex offender.

Following his original arrest and conviction in Leeds, RTE released a statement in which it said that his contract with the broadcaster would be terminated.

Expand Close A screengrab of Kieran Creaven (55) who was charged after being confronted by a vigilante group / Facebook

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Whatsapp A screengrab of Kieran Creaven (55) who was charged after being confronted by a vigilante group

At Leeds Crown Court, Creaven was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to attempting to meet a child in the city after sexual grooming and 12 months for inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

He was exposed after trying to meet what he believed was a 13-year-old girl in Leeds in November last year.

The teenager was in fact an adult member of vigilante group Predator Exposure, which confronted him when he arrived in the city.

The court was told that Creaven sent the teenager an image of his erect penis.

During a four-month long grooming process, he told the teenager he wanted to cuddle her and smell her hair.

It emerged that Creaven watched child pornography involving girls as young as eight and was in constant contact with up to 20 teenagers online.

Prosecutor Kitty Colley gave evidence about how Creaven sexually groomed a person he believed to be a 13-year-old girl named Kealy Nutton with hundreds of messages sent on a daily basis between July and November last year.

He set up a fake Facebook profile under the name Jimmy Cee and purported to be a man in his late 30s.

He also befriended hundreds of adolescent and teenage girls through this account.

Early on in his conversations with Kealy Nutton, Creaven sent pictures taken in a bedroom of him holding his erect penis.

In one message he said: Wish you were here in bed with me, warm and snuggled up.

Ill keep you wrapped up in my arms all night, smell your hair and kiss you.

Creaven also used his profession as a producer to entice the young girl, who was impressed by this.

By October last year, he arranged flights to Leeds to meet the teenager, but had to cancel the trip due to illness.

However, the following month he flew to Leeds to meet what he believed was a 13-year-old girl.

He said he would pretend to be her father in the hotel and would sneak into her room late at night.

Instead, he was confronted by members of Predator Exposure, who streamed the encounter live on Facebook.

When searched, he was carrying a list of names of young girls, two mobile phones and two boxes of condoms.

Giving details of Creavens depraved background, Vicki Colley, prosecuting, said he masturbated to child pornography involving girls and boys as young as eight.

She also said he chatted online with up to 20 teenage girls aged between 13 and 18.

Creaven also admitted to posting images and information of children online who blocked him on Facebook.

The list of girls names he was found with, he said he would buy credit for their phones and when they blocked him he would seek revenge like putting something on Facebook about them, said Ms Colley.

Defence counsel Ian Cook said that the incident had left Creavens marriage shattered and that he had expressed relief at his arrest.

He also stated that Creaven signed up to a lesbian dating website even though he was clearly not a woman.

A sexual harm prevention order was drafted restricting Creavens access to a phone with internet capabilities and being in the company of children under the age of 18.

Judge Simon Phillips said the aggravating factors were the significant level of planning that went into meeting the young child and the sexual nature of the images he sent.

In mitigation, Judge Phillips said there was not a real victim in the case and took into account Creavens early guilty plea before sentencing him.The dates to have your letters signed, sealed and sent by to get them delivered before Christmas.

It's that time of year again and An Post has published a list of the latest you can post letters to ensure they make it in time for Christmas.

Sending to the Republic of Ireland:

Standard Post letters and parcels: December 20

Registered Post: December 20

Express Post: December 21

Sending to Northern Ireland:

Standard Post letters and parcels: December 19

Registered Post: December 19

Express Post: December 20

Sending to the rest of the UK:

Standard Post letters and parcels: December 18

Registered Post: December 19

Express Post: December 19

International Courier Service: December 19

Sending to Europe:

Standard Post letters and parcels: December 18

Standard Post parcels: December 12

Registered Post: December 18

Express Post: December 17

International Courier Service: December 18

Sending to the USA:

Standard Post letters and parcels: December 10

Standard Post parcels: December 7

Registered Post: December 7

Express Post: December 12

International Courier Service: December 18The drug that CervicalCheck victim Vicky Phelan credits with reducing her tumours is to be made more widely available, the Irish Independent understands.

Health Minister Simon Harris is on the verge of a major announcement regarding Pembrolizumab. The HSE currently funds the drug for women caught up in the CervicalCheck controversy, known as the 221 group.

However, there have been calls for it to be supplied to all other cervical cancer patients.

The treatment, more commonly known as Pembro, can cost 8,000 a dose which is administered every three weeks, but only gives results in a limited number of cases. It can take up to eight months before doctors know if a patient is responding.

Government sources said Mr Harris had now asked the Medicines Management Programme (MMP) to expand access to Pembro to "all clinically suitable women with cervical cancer".

The move will form "part of an overall national effort to effectively eradicate the disease..."

"This, coupled with the move to HPV testing next year and the HPV vaccine for boys next year, is part of a joined-up effort to realise this vision," the source said. It is understood Mr Harris will meet the head of the MMP, Professor Michael Barry, later this week.

"We expect to hear progress very shortly," the source said.

Ms Phelan wrote online that making Pembro more accessible would be a "most wonderful gift this Christmas".Crisis: Doctors Andrew ORegan, Kirsten Fuller and Niall McGuire were among the GPs who walked out of the meeting yesterday. Photo: TONY GAVIN

The first medical abortion in Ireland may take place as early as January 8, despite the escalation of a row between GPs over how the new service will run.

The Government is determined to meet the January target to implement the new law extending the grounds for terminations if the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Bill is passed before the Christmas break.

It would mean a woman seeking an abortion could visit a participating GP on January 2 and, if assessed as suitable, be eligible for an abortion early the following week.

However, up to 50 GPs with strong anti-abortion views walked out of a meeting of family doctors in Dublin yesterday to discuss concerns about how the new service will operate on the ground.

The doctors left the meeting of the Irish College of General Practitioners (ICGP) - the professional and training body for doctors - which was convened to discuss the abortion service, saying their voices were not heard.

They said they represent hundreds of GPs who not only want to opt out of the service, but do not want to be obliged to make arrangements to refer a woman seeking an abortion to another doctor.

Dr Kirsten Fuller, spokesperson for the group, said: "Today was a test for whether the ICGP board regards rank and file GPs as colleagues who ought to be consulted and included in decision making or see them as a problem that must be managed.

"We definitely got our answer to that question at today's meeting."

Dr Fuller said: "Ordinary GPs in their hundreds have done everything humanly possible in the past five months to get the ICGP board to listen to our concerns but we have been stonewalled every step of the way. A serious crisis now exists that the Government cannot ignore regarding the rollout of GP-led abortion services."

She said: "Under the new law, doctors will be forced to facilitate abortions taking place."

The current Medical Council guideline states a doctor is allowed to conscientiously object, but is obliged to refer a patient onwards.

The meeting went ahead with a large gathering of GPs who travelled from around the country.

Dr Tony Cox, medical director of the ICGP, said: "The college's remit is to provide training and education for all GPs, and for those GPs who wish to offer this service.

"We are aware of the concerns of those with a conscientious objection to providing termination of pregnancy services, and we have successfully advocated for an 'opt-in' service and for a 24-hour helpline as the first point of information for those who seek the service.

"We are sorry that those who walked out didn't stay to listen, as there was a meaningful discussion of all the issues on the agenda."Longer hospital waits will "inevitably" be a factor over the coming Christmas period, Health Minister Simon Harris has starkly admitted.

After nurses reported the worst-ever November on record for hospital overcrowding, Mr Harris appealed to people to reserve A&Es for emergency cases.

He asked the public to avoid making the situation more difficult for doctors by showing up with complaints that could be dealt with by a GP.

"I do need and ask for the support of everybody this winter period in terms of keeping our emergency departments for emergencies. And we use alternatives where available.

"We're going to be extending the opening times for our primary care centres and minor injury units," he said.

The minister's call on the public follows a controversial demand from Taoiseach Leo Varadkar for medical staff to work over the holiday period.

Mr Harris said the HSE had signed-off on rosters for Christmas and was satisfied there were enough doctors and nurses in place to ensure diagnostic equipment was more accessible than in recent years.

However, nursing representatives have expressed concern that 2018 is already the worst year on record for overcrowding and there are several weeks to go.

A total of 9,679 admitted patients were forced to wait on trolleys for beds last month, said the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO).

This is an 11pc increase on November 2017 and more than twice as bad as 2006, when the records first began. Last week, the count for 2018 crossed 100,000 for the first time ever.

INMO general secretary Phil Ni Sheaghdha said: "Behind each number is a vulnerable patient suffering in poor conditions, with overworked staff pulling out all the stops to provide the best possible care.

"January and February are typically the worst months, so nurses and midwives will be looking to the new year with a sense of dread."

A total of five hospitals saw more than 500 patients on trolleys in November:

:: Cork University Hospital: 932;

:: University Hospital Galway: 676;

:: Letterkenny University Hospital: 581;

:: Tallaght University Hospital: 559;

:: Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore: 549.

Speaking on Newstalk's 'On The Record', Mr Harris said the winter plan would see extra resources put in place to help hospitals cope.

He will take part in a special meeting of health chiefs on December 28 and 31 "to make sure everything that possibly can be done is being done".

"But I'm not going to lie to people. I'm not going to pretend that January is not going to be a very busy period in our health service," he said.

A 'tsar' will be appointed to oversee the health service's bid to avoid chaos in hospitals in the coming months.

Nine hospitals identified as "sites of concern" will be targeted. These are hospitals that have already had issues with patients on trolleys this year and over the past two winters.A teacher revealed she ran to get help after a young homeless mother called her, contemplating suicide.

The Dublin teacher also said she had washed pupil's clothes because parents had nowhere to do laundry in hotels or B&Bs.

It comes as the Irish National Teachers' Organisation (INTO) highlights how badly teachers are "struggling to cope" with child homelessness.

The teacher spoke to the Irish Independent under condition of anonymity, but revealed her ire at the Government's "failed housing policies".

"I'm at the end of my tether," the Dublin teacher said.

"I had a mother of four children call me, telling me that she couldn't take anymore.

"It's breaking my heart every day. I ran to the hotel and let a social worker know. I sat with the mother and made sure she got support but I can't do this anymore."

The latest child homeless figures provided by Barnardos show 3,829 are without a stable home.

The INTO is calling for immediate action to calm the situation in classrooms due to mass child homelessness.

"Homelessness is an educational crisis too. More than an entire primary school class, 35 pupils, became homeless every two days in February of this year," Sheila Nunan, INTO general secretary, said.

"Teachers are growing increasingly concerned the lack of a proper and stable home is harming children's education.

"School children who are homeless are often seriously struggling in school while their teachers struggle to help them to cope."

A Department of Education spokesman said: "A range of resources are available to support schools in dealing with identified additional educational needs, including needs which may arise for children who are experiencing homelessness. Supports for schools are also provided by Tusla's Educational Welfare Service and by the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection."An Irish priest may be on the path to sainthood after more than 100 people came together with a view to start the beatification process.

Fr Colm O'Brien, originally from Co Waterford, was just 36 when he died of cancer in 2009. Ordained in June 2000, he had spent eight years as curate at SS Peter and Paul, Clonmel, before being transferred to Tramore.

The Bishop of Waterford and Lismore Alphonsus Cullinan called the meeting to explore whether his life was marked by the "heroic virtue" which would justify the Church calling him 'Servant of God'.

This is the first stage of a Vatican investigation which can lead to someone being beatified or even canonised as a saint in the Church's calendar.

More than 100 people shared stories of Fr O'Brien nine years after his death.

"It was a wonderful meeting, celebrating holiness, goodness, simplicity and faith, and it was a beautiful sense of grace on the night," said Bishop Cullinan.

"I've been hearing about Colm for years, even before I was made bishop here, and since I became bishop I heard people talking about him and the possibility of a cause going forward.

"He was a person who touched a lot of people. He would arrive late to almost everything because he would stop to talk to everybody from the car to the house and he couldn't get from one end of the street to the other without having several conversations.

"He had an extraordinary humility, simplicity and joy about him and a sense of humour."

At the Hotel Minella in Clonmel last week, people sat in groups of 10 around tables, swapping stories and recollections of the priest.

Fr Colm had lived as part of a fraternity of priests who live the spirituality of the Focolare movement, and two of his friends from that group were at the Wednesday night gathering.

"It was moving to hear testimonies of how Fr Colm always showed good humour, had a deep devotion to the Eucharist, was a person of exceptional but unostentatious piety and humility, attracted queues of people to his confessional, and bore his painful illness with great patience," said Fr Colin Rothery, a priest of the Dublin diocese.

"One person said: 'When you talked to him, you were in a special place'."

The next step will be to gather an account of the life of the priest, including the testimonies of others, and present it to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, which will decide whether or not the cause can go ahead.

Bishop Alphonsus is appealing to people who knew Fr Colm O'Brien to send their accounts to: info@waterfordlismore.ie marking the subject line: 'Fr Colm O'Brien'.Government policy is failing tens of thousands of people waiting on healthcare, homes and broadband, a damning report warns today.

Social Justice Ireland's 'National Social Monitor for Winter 2018' points out that there are 70,000 people on healthcare waiting lists.

It says with 500,000 homes without broadband and more than 10,000 people homeless, Government policies are "failing".

Dr Sean Healy, director of Social Justice Ireland (SJI), said: "Government policy is addressing the symptoms of problems, not the causes."

He said that a quarter of a million children were living in poverty.

"This is both unacceptable and unnecessary at a time when resources are available to make a real impact on addressing the causes of these problems," he said.

"Government needs to dramatically increase the construction of social and low-cost homes."

Dr Healy highlighted a "mistaken belief that economic growth will trickle down to benefit everyone in a fair and just manner".

He said this had led to "successive Governments implementing policies that give priority to economic growth over all other areas".

"Economic growth alone is not enough. More is required if we are to have a society which addresses the basic needs and promotes the basic rights of its population," Dr Healy said.

Family homelessness increased by more than 350pc between September 2014 and September 2018, according to Colette Bennett, research and policy analyst at SJI.

"There's a real risk current Government policy of promoting family hubs will normalise family homelessness," Ms Bennett said.

"Government policy should be directed at providing homes and not hubs. Government should immediately introduce legislation to limit the amount of time families and vulnerable adults spend in hubs."

The report stated the fact there are increasing waiting lists for treatment in Ireland's hospitals and care centres signals a failure in policy.

"There are over 700,000 people on healthcare waiting lists. Ireland has a hospital bed occupancy rate of almost 95pc, almost 20 percentage points above the OECD average," said Michelle Murphy, from the think tank.

"Such high occupancy rates are associated with an increased risk of healthcare-associated infections, for example MRSA, increased mortality and there's no capacity within the hospital system to cope with unforeseen events."

The group said Government "must roll out the 96 primary care networks as a matter of urgency" and "fully resource the implementation of the Slaintecare strategy".

The slow progress of the National Broadband Plan was "impacting on existing businesses, delaying rural development and putting rural communities at a disadvantage at a time of increased digitalisation of basic services".A delegation of Fine Gael junior ministers have complained to the Finance Minister that they cannot afford to stay in Dublin mid-week due to spiralling hotel costs.

At least eight ministers took part in a meeting with Paschal Donohoe last week to voice concerns that their expense entitlements do not factor in overnight stays in the capital when the Dail is sitting.

While TDs from outside Dublin are entitled to claim between 25,295 and 34,065 in unvouched travel and accommodation expenses annually, ministers are not.

Instead they are required to submit mileage claims to their department and must cover their own hotel bills.

Ministers of state are entitled to the basic TD salary of 94,535, plus a ministerial payment of 35,319, bringing their total income to 129,854.

The situation has long been a private bone of contention with ministers of state but the ever-rising cost of hotel rooms led them to challenge Mr Donohoe in recent days.

A number of ministers confirmed to the Irish Independent that a cordial meeting took place - but ultimately Mr Donohoe rejected their demands.

"Paschal listened but there is an absolute realisation on both sides that nothing can be done about it at the minute," said one minister, who added: "Nobody is going to be interested in our bellyaching."

It's understood the ministers who attended included Pat Breen (Clare), Ciaran Cannon (Galway), Jim Daly (Cork), Michael D'Arcy (Wexford), Sean Kyne (Galway), Paul Kehoe (Wexford), Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick), and David Stanton (Cork). Others were said to be supportive of their position but were unable to attend.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a second minster said: "Basically Paschal said people would have to wait until after an election. It's an anomaly that if you're a Dublin minister you're fine but if you come up from the country, you're paying for a hotel two or three nights a week."

Another member of the group estimated that his hotel costs are now hitting close to 500 a week, or up to 10,000 a year.

During the meeting, the ministers also reminded Mr Donohoe they have foregone salary increases due over the past two years under the public sector pay restoration deal.

While the decision to forego the money was voluntary, the ministers say they were put under huge pressure to do so when compared to backbench TDs.A second energy provider is to freeze prices for the high-use winter period.

PrePayPower said it would not increase the price of its electricity or gas until at least the first day of March.

It comes weeks after the largest provider in the market, Electric Ireland, said it would freeze electricity and gas prices over the coming months.

In the past few months, five suppliers announced winter price rises and this followed a string of hikes announced earlier in the year.

PrePayPower says it is one of the fastest growing energy market firms in this country.

Only set up in 2010, it has 140,000 pay-as-you-go electricity customers, and 42,000 gas customers.

PrePayPower installs meters in customers' homes, which allow them to pay for their electricity as-they-go via a smartphone app, online or in-store.

The meters also allow customers to monitor energy usage in the home via a smartphone app or online. Co-founder and chief executive of PrePayPower Cathal Fay said the price freeze was timed to coincide with the lead-in to Christmas and new year as this is an expensive time everyone.

"We're delighted to be giving our customers a little bit of good news at this expensive time of year. This announcement provides customers with certainty of pricing during the winter period when customer energy consumption is at its highest," he said.

"Our service will help them monitor and control that consumption."

The moves by PrePayPower and Electric Ireland will put pressure on Bord Gais, one of the bigger players in the market. It has yet to say whether it is increasing or freezing prices. Another provider, BEenergy, has also yet to indicate if it will be hiking prices.

The Electric Ireland freeze will apply until the end of February, when energy use in homes is at its highest.

The company, the largest supplier in the State, has 1.1 million electricity customers and 138,000 gas customers.

Winter price rises have recently been announced by SSE Airtricity, Energia, Pinergy, Flogas and Panda Power.

The Panda Power rise took effect in November and will see the bill for a household with average electricity use rise by almost 100 a year.

People who get both electricity and gas from Energia will end up paying an additional 118 a year for their dual fuel over a year, with the rises taking effect from the first day of the new year.

Daragh Cassidy, of price comparison site Bonkers.ie, said that even if customers were benefiting from a price freeze, they needed to switch supplier every year to benefit from the best deals.

"All the energy suppliers save their best tariffs for brand-new customers, which can be discounted by up to 30pc or more compared to the tariffs a longer-term customer is charged," said Mr Cassidy.

He said switching supplier was quick and easy and could all be done online in the space of a few minutesUp to 28 staff at Grafton College in Portobello did not receive their wages on Friday Photo: Doug O'Connor

Teachers at a Dublin based English school will lock themselves inside the premises tonight after being told all their jobs have been lost.

Up to 28 staff at Grafton College in Portobello did not receive their wages on Friday and this morning were told the school is going into liquidation.

Expand Close Diego Ramos (25) Priscilla Teles (29) Bruno Miguel (31) Photo: Doug O'Connor / Facebook

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Whatsapp Diego Ramos (25) Priscilla Teles (29) Bruno Miguel (31) Photo: Doug O'Connor

Teachers were handed a letter from the management director informing them that the college has ceased to trade with immediate effect due to insolvency.

I wish to inform you that your pay for November was not paid and will not be paid, it read.

Staff told Independent.ie that theyve made numerous attempts to contact the owner of the school, but have not heard back from him.

They said they have been left with no alternative but to occupy the building from tonight.

Expand Close Staff outside Grafton College in Dublin today / Facebook

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Were going to occupy the building in an effort to get more attention for our cause and the entire industry, said teacher Daragh McCarthy from Dublin.

Many teachers, including myself, have been through similar situations in the past.

We have to make some kind of stand because its just going to continue and become the norm. This industry isnt being taken care of on any level  its completely unregulated.

We dont know exactly how long well occupy the building for, but we have to do something were at breaking point.

Expand Close Up to 28 staff at Grafton College in Portobello did not receive their wages on Friday Photo: Doug O'Connor / Facebook

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Whatsapp Up to 28 staff at Grafton College in Portobello did not receive their wages on Friday Photo: Doug O'Connor

Brian Merrill (36) from Arizona had to call off his own wedding because of the unexpected turn of events.

My fiancee and I were meeting wedding planners last week and getting ready to get married in Portugal, but now we cant.

We were getting really excited for the year ahead and were supposed to fly to Krakow for the New Year, but that cant happen either.

We have to use all the money we have to pay our rent. The financial weight is now solely on my fiancees shoulders because Ive been robbed of my pay for five weeks.

Grafton College has around 500 international students. It is understood they will be accommodated in other institutions under a student protection fund which is organised by English language colleges operating in Ireland.

Priscilla Teles (29) from Brazil expressed her disappointment at this morning's announcement.

"Im very shocked and saddened that the school is closed, but weve been assured that well be transferred to another college," she said.

"We have to do a six month course and Im in my fifth month so its very unfortunate timing. Without the English certificate my visa wont be renewed and I wont be able to work. There are so many students here and we all pay nearly 2,000 each so I just dont know why the college has to close.

We get along so well with the teachers who do an amazing job. I feel so sorry for them, it's just not fair."

The union representing some of the teachers at Grafton College appealed to the Department of Education to step in and "not to wash its hands of this" just weeks before Christmas.

Members and supporters of Unites English Language Teacher expressed support for the staff, demanding that Education and Skills Minister Joe McHugh visit the college and speak to the teachers.

Unite Regional Organiser Roy Hassey said this particular case reinforces the need for legislation to protect the interests of both teachers and students in the highly-profitable English language sector.

It is not in the interests of teachers, students or the wider economy that rogue employers be allowed to continue operating in the English Language Teaching sector, he said.

Unite members and supporters will be protesting outside Grafton College this evening in solidarity with teachers who have been left without wages or employment in the run-up to Christmas.

The Qualifications and Quality Assurance Bill will be debated in the Seanad on Wednesday, and I would appeal to all Senators to look at what is happening in Portobello and support amendments designed to ensure minimum employment standards for English Language Teachers, he said.

Marketing English in Ireland (MEI), an association for private English schools, offered reassurance for affected students.

A statement read: "MEI member schools have arrangements in place for the protection of learners; in the event of the closure of a school which is an MEI member, other MEI members will automatically offer places to displaced students to ensure they can complete their studies for the duration of the course for which they have registered and paid.

All impacted Grafton College students are already in Ireland and are registered and attending classes at Grafton College. Arrangements will be put in place by MEI to ensure all students are enabled to complete their studies.

Attempts to contact management at the school were unsuccessful.

Students from the school have also set up a GoFundMe for the teachers: www.gofundme.com/graftoncollegeThousands of families are waiting on homes or vital healthcare

The gaping chasm opening up between the haves and have-nots in Irish society is exposed in a series of stark reports today.

While shoppers prepare for their biggest ever festive splurge, thousands of families are waiting on homes or vital healthcare.

As mortgage approval rates jump again, there are also still large numbers of homes ending up in the hands of corporate investors.

Retailers are hopeful of a buoyant Christmas amid reports that Irish households will spend an average of 2,690 in shops this December.

The Christmas Retail Monitor 2018 from Ibec predicts that after a strong Black Friday, we will spend more than ever this festive season.

Despite the threat of Brexit, many consumers are optimistic of pay rises in the new year.

Mortgage approvals have also jumped, both in terms of volume and value. Irish banks approved a total of 4,262 mortgages in October, up 11.4pc in a month.

But the stark divide is revealed in a Social Justice Ireland report which notes the 700,000 on healthcare waiting lists, 500,000 homes without broadband, and over 11,000 people homeless. It slams Government policy for failing to tackle causes of poverty and inequality.

Its director, Dr Sean Healy, highlighted a "mistaken belief that economic growth will trickle down to benefit everyone in a fair and just manner".

He said this had led to "successive Governments implementing policies that give priority to economic growth over all other areas".

But he added: "Economic growth alone is not enough.

"More is required if we are to have a society which addresses the basic needs and promotes the basic rights of its population."

St Vincent de Paul has also warned of the rise in "hidden poverty" in Ireland with many families forced to turn to it for the first time in 2018.

"The main reasons would be people looking for housing supports, low income earners and then people with health issues," said its call centre lead, Linda Murray.

Meanwhile, Independent.ie can reveal that one in five homes built using Nama funding has been sold to corporate investors - including property investment funds and private equity firms.

More homes have been sold to investors than were utilised for social housing, the new figures reveal.

It also emerges that the vast bulk of properties built using funding from the State bad-bank have been sold in excess of prices considered 'affordable'.

More than a third were sold for prices in excess of 400,000.Tesco stores nationwide could face strikes in the new year, a union has warned.

Stores in Sligo and Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim, are set for major disruption during the Christmas period,

The Mandate trade union has said strike action will take place on December 6, 14 and 22. However, Tesco has insisted it will remain open on these dates.

Tesco has called on Mandate to call off the strike action and said "they are in breach of the company and unions agreed procedures which are to refer disputes to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC)".

Mandate general secretary John Douglas told the Irish Independent that strikes in other stores are unlikely before Christmas. However, he said there could be major disruption come 2019.

Mr Douglas said problems with canteen facilities are among a number of local issues that need to be addressed.

"There are 147 stores nationwide and the attitude of the company is the same across those stores... The likelihood is that this is going to become more prevalent," he said.

However, Tesco defended its treatment of employees and said the union was inconveniencing customers.

"If Mandate proceeds with the proposed unwarranted one-day strike actions for the two stores, both will continue to remain open to serve customers," a statement read.

"A conciliation conference on the two issues in Sligo was scheduled at the WRC for October 24 but was rejected by Mandate. In Carrick-on-Shannon, the matters have not yet been referred back to the WRC by Mandate. Tesco has always abided by agreed procedures and we expect Mandate to do the same," it added.Ryanair has announced two new routes from Dublin to Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia, both set for take-off next summer.

The new routes will be twice-weekly, operating from next June as part of its Summer 2019 schedule at Dublin Airport.

As we publish, one-way fares are around 52 each-way in June.

Ryanair's Irish schedule for next summer will be its biggest ever, the airline has said, with 100 routes from Irish airports including new services like Dublin to Gothenburg, Lourdes and Thessaloniki, Cork to Malta and Shannon to Ibiza.

The routes to Dubrovnik and Split come as access between Ireland and Croatia continues to grow. Aer Lingus, which already services Dubrovnik, Pula and Split from Dublin, recently announced flights from Cork to Dubrovnik - also for next summer.

Croatia Airlines also ran a Dublin-Zagreb service this year.

To celebrate the new routes, Ryanair is running a European seat sale on its website (ryanair.com), with fares from 9.99 in December and January.

Read more:To be clear: Nama is doing nothing wrong by selling properties to investors and for building homes which cost in excess of what many people can afford.

It is not its function to solve the housing crisis. It's to make the best return for the State on the appalling mess of a loan book it inherited after the housing market collapsed. By this metric, it's doing very well, and is on course to deliver a 3.5bn surplus when it winds down in 2020. Some believe the surplus could be higher, in part due to rising house prices.

The problem is that Nama is an arm of the State, and it is the State's job to fix the housing crisis. The agency's remit should have been changed when it became apparent that the sector was in trouble, probably in about 2014 when the last Government published its Construction 2020 strategy, aimed at easing the severe shortage of housing stock and dampening prices. But it was left as is. That meant when it was considering funding housing development, it was driven by the need to maximise returns.

So instead of building three-bed starter homes for 300,000, which would serve a substantial portion of the market, it instead went for projects like College Square in Dublin 6W, where homes started at 550,000 and where - presumably - the returns were better. It had to do so. Because its job was to maximise the return on the loan book.

Lessons must be learned.

The Land Development Agency is tasked with utilising State-owned land to develop a mix of social, affordable and private homes.

It will wield enormous power, not only controlling enormous landbanks, but also having the financial muscle to start delivering homes. The idea is that land will be made available in a controlled manner, backed by good planning policies, so that homes are delivered on a steady basis, at accessible prices, and which will avoid the boom and bust cycles of the past. It will be crucial to ensure that any homes built on public land are sold to the 'right' people.

What cannot happen is that the agency funds development, only for it to be sold to cash-rich investment firms.

And nor should rental properties be developed on public lands which cost a small fortune. Let the market look after this cohort of wealthy tenants. Politicians should also be willing to change the underlying legislation if it appears that changes are needed.

Regardless of how well Nama performs, the State will still experience appalling losses from the financial crisis. Ex-Central Bank governor Patrick Honohan reckons around 37bn. On that basis, giving up a Nama surplus of 3.5bn to allow it build cheaper homes is a difference of less than 10pc.

Nama has delivered almost 2,500 homes it inherited during the crash for social housing. Its record on new builds is less impressive. Had it been allowed to develop more affordable homes since 2014 it may not have solved this housing crisis, but it would certainly have helped ease it.Former US first lady Michelle Obama will speak to an audience at the Royal Festival Hall. (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Michelle Obama is set to address a live audience about her personal journey to becoming First Lady and her time in the White House.

The lawyer and wife of former president Barack Obama will speak to a London audience about her memoir Becoming.

Tickets for the event at the Southbank Centre rapidly sold out as people clamoured to hear the life lessons of the former First Lady, charting her highs, lows and inspirations.

The talk will cover: Her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her years as an executive, balancing the demands of motherhood and work, to her time spent at the worlds most famous address.

Were finally here! I hope that this book might help each of you embrace the beauty of who you are, and I wish you all the best in your own process of becoming. https://t.co/tOEk59nT71 #IAmBecoming pic.twitter.com/1VD6nCZN41  Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) November 13, 2018

She will speak alongside Nigerian novelist and moderator for the evening, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, whose work has examined post-colonialism and feminism.

Mrs Obamas autobiographical memoir sold 2 million copies within just a few weeks of its publication, with publishers Penguin Random House claiming it has become the biggest selling book of 2018 in the US and Canada.

The audience at the Royal Festival Hall will hear the stories and emotions behind the book at the audience with Mrs Obama on Monday evening.

Earlier in the day, Mrs Obama will visit Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in Islington, north London.

She will join young alumni and executive headteacher Jo Dibb to discuss the importance of education in front of an audience of school pupils at the secondary school for girls.Pippa and Brian joined the little lambs who love the Ivy

Rosanna Davison is joined for dinner by 'Imaran' the horse from Cromwellstown Stables in Kilteel

Should the International Monetary Fund be alerted now, and look to get the recovery started early, as Mauritius appears likely to plunge into a recession?

This I say because none other than Rosanna Davison has just told me that she and husband Wesley Quirke are not making their annual Christmas trip to Mauritius. She is instead planning - shock horror! - "a quiet and relaxing Christmas at the family home in Wicklow".

"It will be lots of food, fun and silly jokes," Rosanna said, adding that she has "no plans to go away anywhere in January. We may do a family trip sometime in the spring but my course doesn't finish until January 15", Rosanna said in reference to the master of science in personalised nutrition that she's studying for at Middlesex Uni, "and one of my brothers [Michael] will be in Canada with his Canadian girlfriend, so we weren't able to commit to it this year".

Tell that to the Mauritians who will be weeping openly at the news that the Irish beauty is not coming for Christmas.

Rosanna joined the throngs weeping with joy recently when she attended the Aviva for a certain game. "It was great to see Ireland finally beating the All Blacks on home soil."

Speaking of soil, this time in Naas, Chris de Burgh's daughter will be the guest judge for the Best Dressed Lady competition at Naas Racecourse at its January 6 winter meeting.

"That's something I'm really looking forward to," she told me. "The photoshoot we did to launch it was great fun and my co-star Imaran was an absolute pleasure to work with." Wesley needn't be worried. Imaran is a horse. In the meantime, Rosanna will ring in the New Year with a party at her other half's new venture, the Carlton Casino Club in Dublin. As I've said before, the former Miss World does not have what you'd call a poker face.

Mick and Vera jet off to Paris for Christmas

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They'll always have Paris. At least Michael Mulcahy and his muse Vera Whelan will.

They go to the French capital like most of us go to town for the shopping.

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Michael, Ireland's answer to Salvador Dali, and Vera are jetting to the French capital for Christmas. They will be taking in the sights of the City of Lights - but the trip is ostensibly for Michael to spend time with his daughter Fiona.

Vera and Michael are excited about the trip. Equally exciting is the fact that Michael has entered the 21st Century perhaps, possibly because Vera has decided to modernise him. You can now view his paintings on Instagram under @vera_whelan.

His studio is in Balkycurrame, Clashmore, Co Waterford. How do I know this? Because Mick was spotted recently up on the roof of said studio - trying to fix it. From the City of Lights to the studio roof that lets the light in, anyone?

You couldn't make Mick Mulcahy up, could you?

Big Brother is cooking for homecoming Colin

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Big Brother is not watching you, but cooking for you. Or at least, he is for Colin Farrell...

The aforementioned big bro, and Irish dance guru Eamon will be cooking Christmas dinner for Colin and the rest of the family when they fly in from Los Angeles in three weeks' time.

Those in hungry attendance at Eamon's swish Yuletide repast at his and husband Steven Mannion's Sandymount home will include, among others, proud mammy Rita Farrell and her husband Joel B Michaels (she married the film producer - the man behind Basic Instinct 2 and Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines - in the summer of 2013 in Colin's house in LA), plus Eamon's sisters Claudine (with her film director boyfriend Mark Steven Johnson) and Catherine (with husband Kevin) and their kids.

This is to say nothing of Colin himself.

"I'm cooking," Eamon explained. "It is the first year in 10 that all the family are home for dinner in our house. We were supposed to be in LA last year but Ste was sick."

The aforementioned Steven, an artist of some note, is, says Eamon, "embarking on a career as a motivational speaker".

Eamon was equally proud, relating that "my wonderful, marvellous, powerhouse step-dad has just had his new movie, After The Wedding, announced as the opening night premiere at this year's Sundance Film Festival! No one deserves it more. It is a stunningly beautiful piece of art".

As doubtless will be Eamon's culinary offering on Christmas Day in Sandymount.

"It will be a full traditional dinner," Eamon revealed. "Turkey, ham and salmon for the pescatarians!"

"I'll be doing all the cooking. Ste won't be cooking. Ste will be doing the entertaining."

Will there be an intermission?

Kathryn brings seasonal cheer to House as Brippa lights up 37 after eating the Ivy

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With all the gift-buying and copious eating of rich food, aren't we forgetting the true meaning of Christmas? So I'd like to wish Santa a happy birthday.

The spirit of Christmas was in the air last weekend in Dublin. On Friday, Kathryn Thomas looked very Christmassy indeed in a black dress paired with a striking pink coat when she rocked into House. She had dinner and drinks with friends in the posh emporium on Leeson Street.

The RTE star stayed until late in House, as did Pippa O'Connor and her husband Brian Ormond on Saturday night in 37 on Dawson Street. Brippa danced until late. They were possibly attempting to dance off the calories after dining across the road in The Ivy. Ah, all I want for Christmas is a fashionable table for two at The Ivy.

Fashion deity Don O'Neill - just back from visiting his mother-in-law in Guadeloupe with his husband Pascal over Thanksgiving - tells me he is leaving his New York base to return to Kerry for the festive season.

"I'm spending Christmas with my dad and brother Patrick at O'Neill's B&B overlooking Ballyheigue Bay - and I can't wait!

"I'm looking forward to long fresh walks on the beach and coming back home and putting our feet by a cosy fire, with cups of hot tea and mince pies.

"Pascal will be flying to the French Antilles in the Caribbean, to Guadeloupe, where he will spend every day with his mom and brother in the warm turquoise waters snorkelling or napping on the white sandy beaches. We will meet back in New York on January 1."Men with deep-rooted homosexual tendencies should not be admitted to the Catholic clergy, and it would be better for priests who are actively gay to leave rather than lead a double life, Pope Francis says in a new book.

While he has previously spoken of the need for better screening of candidates for the religious life, his comments suggesting that priests who cannot keep their vows of celibacy should leave are some of his clearest to date.

"The issue of homosexuality is a serious issue that must be adequately discerned from the beginning with the candidates," the pontiff said with regard to would-be priests.

He adds that those entrusted with training men to be priests must be certain that candidates are "humanly and emotionally mature" before they can be ordained. This also applied to women who wanted to enter female religious communities to become nuns.

"In our societies, it even seems that homosexuality is fashionable and that mentality, in some way, also influences the life of the Church," he says.

Francis made the comments in a book-length interview with Spanish priest Fernando Prado called 'The Strength of Vocation', in which he discusses the challenges of being a priest or nun today. Francis said in the book that homosexuality in the Church "is something that worries me".

It is due to be published this week in several languages. An advance copy of the Italian version was made available to Reuters.

The Church teaches that homosexual tendencies are not sinful in themselves, but homosexual acts are.

Francis said there was "no room for this" in the lives of priests and nuns, adding that the Church had to be "demanding" in choosing candidates for what is known as the consecrated life.

"For this reason, the Church urges that persons with this rooted tendency not be accepted into [priestly] ministry or consecrated life," he said.

He urged homosexuals who are already priests or nuns to be celibate and responsible to avoid creating scandal. "It is better that they leave the priesthood or the consecrated life rather than live a double life," he said.

The interview was conducted in mid-August. Less than two weeks later, Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, the Vatican's former ambassador to the Vatican, threw the Church into turmoil with a bombshell statement against the Pope and Vatican officials. He said a "homosexual network" existed in the Vatican, whose members helped promote each other's careers in the Church.

Meanwhile, the Pope tells in the same book how a hard-headed hospital nun who disobeyed doctor's orders saved his life six decades ago when he risked dying of pneumonia.

When Francis was studying for the priesthood in Latin America in the 1950s he caught pneumonia, but it was misdiagnosed by the seminary's doctor, who thought is was the flu, and one day he had to be rushed to hospital "on the point of death", he says.

A doctor at the hospital realised it was pneumonia and ordered staff to give the young Jorge Mario Bergoglio two types of antibiotics. But a hospital nun named Cornelia Caraglio, had a different idea.

"As soon as the doctor left [she told the staff] 'let's double the dose.' She certainly was a wise nun. By ordering that the dose be doubled, she saved my life," he said.An Egyptian actress facing trial on public obscenity charges for wearing a revealing dress says she didn't mean to offend anyone and appealed to her detractors to believe in her good intentions.

In a Facebook post at the weekend, Rania Youssef said she might have misjudged how people would react to the dress she wore at the closing ceremony of this year's Cairo International Film Festival, which revealed her legs through embroidered gauze.

In choosing that dress, she said, she had referred to fashion designers that may have been influenced by the tastes and standards at international film festivals.

"I want to repeat my commitment to the values and ethics we have been raised by in Egyptian society," said Youssef.

Images of Youssef at the event were widely shared on social media, prompting a group of lawyers to file a complaint to the chief prosecutor, who quickly sent the actress to trial. Many complaints languish for months or longer before any action is taken, so the swift action betrays the urgency of the desire to appease those that took offence. Youssef is due in court on January 12.

The case is the latest instance of ostensibly secular authorities embracing religious conservatism in Muslim-majority Egypt, where the military in 2013 - then led by current President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi - overthrew a freely elected, but divisive Islamist president.

Egypt's Actors Guild said it intended to investigate and discipline actors who wore "inappropriate" attire during the opening and closing ceremonies of the week-long film festival, arguing that they clashed with "the traditions, values and ethics of society".

"Although we absolutely believe in the personal freedom of artists, we appeal to everyone to shoulder their responsibilities toward the fans who appreciate their art and view them as role models," it said.Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has refuted claims that he had died and been replaced by a clone.

A conspiracy theory popularised on social media claimed the 75-year-old had died after being treated for illness over five months last year.

According to one version of the theory which had spread without evidence, the leader had been replaced by a Sudanese impostor called Jubril.

One of the questions that came up today in my meeting with Nigerians in Poland was on the issue of whether Ive been cloned or not. The ignorant rumours are not surprising  when I was away on medical vacation last year a lot of people hoped I was dead. pic.twitter.com/SHTngq6LJU  Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) December 2, 2018

A lot of people hope that I was dead and hoped I died, Mr Buhari said at a meeting of Nigerians in Poland. Its the real me, I assure you. I will soon celebrate my 76th birthday and I will still go strong.

The president explained some people had even reached out to his vice president, Yemi Osinbajo, to ask about the cloning claims, which he said embarrassed Mr Osinbajo.

Poor @ProfOsinbajo, even he had to deal with the rumours  Some people reached out to him to consider them to be his Vice President because they assumed I was dead. That embarrassed him a lot; we discussed it when he visited me while I was convalescing.  Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) December 2, 2018

I can assure you all that this is the real me. Later this month I will celebrate my 76th birthday. And Im still going strong!  Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) December 2, 2018

If I am getting harassed by anyone, it is my grandchildren, who are getting too many, added Mr Buhari, who said he is looking forward to his 76th birthday on December 17.

Several videos containing the allegations about Mr Buhari had received thousands of views on YouTube, and were still available on the platform even after he addressed the rumours.David Saint-Jacques, Anne McClain and Oleg Kononenko en route to the launch pad (Aubrey Gemignani/AP)

Three astronauts have blasted off to the International Space Station, a successful launch that follows Octobers aborted mission.

Nasa astronaut Anne McClain, David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency and Oleg Kononenko of the Russian space agency Roscosmos lifted off as scheduled on Monday from the Russian-leased Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.

LIFTOFF! Shooting into the sky at 6:31am ET, the Soyuz rocket carrying @AstroAnnimal, @Astro_DavidS and Oleg Kononenko leaves Earth on six-hour journey to their new home on @Space_Station. Watch: https://t.co/i3hRugl4X4 pic.twitter.com/xrgYvSg8UQ  NASA (@NASA) December 3, 2018

A Soyuz-FG rocket carrying Nasa astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos Alexei Ovchinin failed two minutes into its flight on October 11, activating an automatic rescue system that sent their capsule into a steep ride back to Earth.

A Russian investigation attributed the failure to a sensor that was damaged during the rockets final assembly.

Since the mishap, four successful Soyuz launches have been conducted to clear the path for the crews launch.Negotiators from around the world have opened the United Nations annual climate change conference in Poland, three years after sealing a landmark deal in Paris that set a goal of keeping global warming well below 2C (3.6F).

Arriving for two weeks of talks, conference participants cast off hats, scarves and heavy coats as they entered cavernous halls in Katowice heated by coal-fired power plants nearby.

While the Polish government claims Katowice is in the process of transforming into a green city, power plant chimneys pumped plumes of smoke and monitoring sites showed elevated levels of air pollution.

Poland plans to use Mondays official opening event to promote a declaration calling for a just transition for fossil fuel industries that face cuts and closures amid efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Environmental activists have expressed concerns about the non-binding declaration, arguing that it could be cited as justification for propping up dying industries instead of investing in renewable energy sources.

Some also have questioned why coal companies are among the meetings sponsors.

We are here to enable the world to act together on climate changeMichal Kurtyka, Poland's deputy environment minister

Polands deputy environment minister, Michal Kurtyka, who is chairing the conference, urged envoys from almost 200 nations to use the time between Sunday and December 14 to make progress on fleshing out the 2015 Paris agreement.

We are here to enable the world to act together on climate change, he said. With further meetings next year meant to build on whats decided in Katowice, Mr Kurtyka urged all countries to show creativity and flexibility.

The United Nations secretary-general is counting on us, all of us to deliver, he added. There is no Plan B.

We must all keep in mind the reason we are here. We are here to enable the world to act together on climate change. To reach, together, the goals of the Convention. #COP24 #ChangingTogether pic.twitter.com/jKwyniadJX  Micha Kurtyka (@KurtykaMichal) December 2, 2018

The World Bank Group said on Monday it is doubling funding for poor countries preparing for climate change to 200 billion US dollars (156 billion) over five years.

It said about 50 billion dollars (39 billion) will be earmarked for climate adaptation, a recognition that some adverse effects of global warming cant be avoided anymore but require a change in practice.

The meeting, known as COP24, received a boost over the weekend when 19 major economies at the G20 summit affirmed their commitment to the Paris accord.

The only holdout was the United States, which announced under President Donald Trump that it is withdrawing from the climate pact.

Welcome to #Katowice! We will be staying here together for the next two weeks. Hope Poland gives you a warm welcome #COP24 #ChangingTogether pic.twitter.com/ZVvbIxpY7c  Micha Kurtyka (@KurtykaMichal) December 2, 2018

Despite geopolitical instability, the climate consensus is proving highly resilient, said Christiana Figueres, a former head of the UN climate office.

It is sad that the federal administration of the United States, a country that is increasingly feeling the full force of climate impacts, continues to refuse to listen to the objective voice of science when it comes to climate change, Ms Figures said.

She cited a recent expert report warning of the consequences of letting average global temperatures rise beyond 1.5C (2.7F).

The rest of the G20 have not only understood the science, they are taking actions to both prevent the major impacts and strengthen their economies, said Ms Figueres, who now works with Mission 2020, a group that campaigns to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

While the United States is withdrawing from the climate pact, the State Department said it is sending a delegation to the Katowice conference.

The meeting in Katowice is regarded as a key test of countries willingness to back their lofty but distant goals with concrete measures, some of which are already drawing fierce protests.

At the top of the agenda is the so-called Paris rulebook, which will determine how governments record and report their greenhouse emissions and efforts to cut them.

Separately, negotiators will discuss ramping up countries national emissions targets after 2020, and financial support for poor nations that are struggling to adapt to climate change.

The shift away from fossil fuels, which scientists say has to happen by 2050, is expected to require a major overhaul of world economies.

It's not one or two players anymore in the international arenaDavid Waskow, of the World Resources Institute

The good news is that we do know a lot of what we need to be able to do to get there, said David Waskow of the World Resources Institute.

Mr Waskow, who has followed climate talks for years, said despite the Trump administrations refusal to back this global effort the momentum is going in the right direction.

Its not one or two players anymore in the international arena, he said.

Its what I think you could call a distributed leadership, where you have a number of countries  some of them small or medium-sized  really making headway and doing it in tandem with cities and states and businesses.

Not far from the meeting venue, Polish anti-coal activists held a small protest on Sunday.

It was dwarfed by marches in Brussels, Berlin and Cologne over the weekend calling for greater action to curb climate change.

But the governor of Germanys most populous state said on Sunday it was premature to set a firm date for phasing out the use of coal-fired power plants.

Armin Laschet, the governor of North Rhine-Westphalia state, told the Funke media group that Germanys decision to stop mining and burning lignite coal must be considered seriously and decided with broad consensus.

German officials had hoped to present a blueprint for the countrys exit from coal at the meeting in Katowice, but an expert committee delayed issuing its recommendations until next year.President Donald Trump has reached out to Pakistans prime minister, sending Imran Khan a letter seeking Islamabads co-operation in bringing the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year war in neighbouring Afghanistan, officials have said.

The development could help ease tension between Washington and Islamabad.

Relations soured after Mr Trump last month alleged that Pakistan harboured al Qaida leader Osama bin Laden despite getting billions of dollars in American aid.

Pakistans foreign ministry quoted Mr Trump as saying in the letter that he considers his most important regional priority achieving a negotiated settlement to the Afghan war and that he was seeking Pakistans support and facilitation toward that goal.

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It said Mr Trump acknowledged the war has cost dearly both the United State and Pakistan.

The ministry also said Mr Trump emphasised Pakistan and Washington should explore opportunities to work together and renew their partnership.

Pakistani authorities did not release the letter, which information minister Fawad Chaudhry said Mr Khan received on Monday morning.

The ministry welcomed the US presidents outreach, saying: Pakistan has always advocated a political settlement to end war in Afghanistan.

Pakistan reiterates its commitment to play the role of facilitator in good faith, the ministry statement said.

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Peace and stability in Afghanistan remains a shared responsibility.

Pakistani media outlets, whose reporters met with Mr Khan in Islamabad on Monday, quoted the prime minister as saying that Pakistan would continue its efforts to help peace in Afghanistan.

When Mr Trump levelled his accusation about bin Laden last month, Islamabad said such baseless rhetoric  was totally unacceptable.

Mr Khan at the time stressed the United States had provided what he described as a minuscule 20 billion US dollars in aid to Pakistan.

Trumps false assertions add insult to the injury Pak has suffered in US WoT in terms of lives lost & destabilised & economic costs. He needs to be informed abt historical facts. Pak has suffered enough fighting US's war. Now we will do what is best for our people & our interests  Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 19, 2018

Bin Laden was killed by US commandos in a surprise raid in May 2011 in the Pakistani garrison city of Abbottabad.

According to Imtiaz Gul, a Pakistani analyst, Mr Trumps letter indicates there is a realisation within the US administration that Pakistans co-operation is vital to ensuring peace in Afghanistan.

Despite near-daily attacks by the Taliban, who now hold sway in about half of Afghanistans territory, the Trump administration has stepped up efforts to find a peaceful solution to the protracted war.

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad was expected to arrive in Pakistan this week during his visit to the region to revive peace talks with the Taliban.

According to the US State Department, Mr Khalilzad will travel to Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Belgium, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar with a delegation from December 2 to December 20.Damage: A woman walks past vandalised cars on Avenue Foch in Paris, the morning after more protests. Photo: REUTERS/Benoit Tessier

French President Emmanuel Macron has held a cabinet meeting to consider "all options", including a state of emergency and deploying soldiers, to prevent a repeat of the violent protests that left swathes of Paris looking like a war zone.

Mr Macron, facing the worst political crisis of his presidency, returned yesterday morning from a G20 summit in Argentina and went directly to the Arc de Triomphe to assess the damage caused by so-called "yellow vest" anti-government protesters.

The arch, which lies at the top of the prestigious Avenue des Champs-Elysees, was where the violence began early on Saturday morning before spreading throughout the day as far as the Louvre and the Opera districts.

Police said 133 people were injured and 412 arrested as protesters torched dozens of cars, smashed windows, looted stores, and threw rocks at police in what Anne Hidalgo, the Paris mayor, said was the worst unrest the city has seen since student uprisings of 1968.

"The situation is very serious. We are going through a major crisis," she told 'Le Parisien' newspaper.

The yellow vest movement spread to Belgium on Friday, where police turned water cannons on anti-government protesters who threw stones and torched two police vehicles in central Brussels. Protests also erupted in the Netherlands.

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The revolt was sparked by planned fuel tax rises, but has turned into a broad opposition front to Mr Macron, a 40-year-old pro-business centrist elected in May 2017, who is accused of being the "president of the rich" and of neglecting the struggles of ordinary French people.

On Saturday, Dutch police closed off the parliamentary complex in The Hague after about 100 yellow-jacket protesters gathered outside.

But those protests were minor compared to the unrest in Paris, which has faced serious rioting for the third Saturday in a row, or the roadblocks set up around France by protesters who say they can barely survive on their incomes. After last week's street battles, Mr Macron said the streets of Paris resembled "war scenes".

This weekend the violence was even worse, with Paris police using around 10,000 tear gas and stun grenades to disperse demonstrators.

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Young men, many of them with their faces masked, battled riot police throughout Saturday in some of the capital's most upmarket areas, smashing shop windows, overturning cars and torching buildings and vehicles, including at least one police car.

The big department stores in the Opera area were closed as trouble broke out nearby.

Anarchist and far-right groups that have infiltrated the yellow vest movement are thought to be behind much of the violence. After visiting the Arc de Triomphe, Mr Macron spoke with police and firefighters on one of the avenues near the Champs-Elysees. Some bystanders applauded him, but more jeered, including yellow-jacketed protesters chanting: "Macron, resign!"

The president then headed to the Elysee Palace for an emergency meeting with the prime minister, interior minister and top security officials.

Benjamin Griveaux, the government's spokesman, said before the meeting that "all options" would be considered, including imposing a state of emergency, to avoid a repeat of the violence. ( Daily Telegraph, London)

Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021]Negotiators from around the world have opened the United Nations' annual climate change conference in Poland, three years after sealing a landmark deal in Paris that set a goal of keeping global warming well below 2C (3.6F).

Arriving for two weeks of talks, conference participants cast off hats, scarves and heavy coats as they entered cavernous halls in Katowice heated by coal-fired power plants nearby.

While the Polish government claims Katowice is in the process of transforming into a green city, power plant chimneys pumped plumes of smoke and monitoring sites showed elevated levels of air pollution.

Poland plans to use Monday's official opening event to promote a declaration calling for a "just transition" for fossil fuel industries that face cuts and closures amid efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Environmental activists have expressed concerns about the non-binding declaration, arguing that it could be cited as justification for propping up dying industries instead of investing in renewable energy sources.

Some also have questioned why coal companies are among the meeting's sponsors.

Poland's deputy environment minister, Michal Kurtyka, who is chairing the conference, urged envoys from almost 200 nations to use the time between Sunday and December 14 to make progress on fleshing out the 2015 Paris agreement.

"We are here to enable the world to act together on climate change," he said. With further meetings next year meant to build on what's decided in Katowice, Mr Kurtyka urged all countries to "show creativity and flexibility".

"The United Nations secretary-general is counting on us, all of us to deliver," he added. "There is no Plan B."

The World Bank Group said on Monday it is doubling funding for poor countries preparing for climate change to 200bn US dollars (176bin) over five years.

It said about 50bn dollars (44bn) will be earmarked for climate adaptation, a recognition that some adverse effects of global warming can't be avoided anymore but require a change in practice.

The meeting, known as COP24, received a boost over the weekend when 19 major economies at the G20 summit affirmed their commitment to the Paris accord.

The only holdout was the United States, which announced under President Donald Trump that it is withdrawing from the climate pact.

"Despite geopolitical instability, the climate consensus is proving highly resilient," said Christiana Figueres, a former head of the UN climate office.

"It is sad that the federal administration of the United States, a country that is increasingly feeling the full force of climate impacts, continues to refuse to listen to the objective voice of science when it comes to climate change," Ms Figures said.

She cited a recent expert report warning of the consequences of letting average global temperatures rise beyond 1.5C (2.7F).

"The rest of the G20 have not only understood the science, they are taking actions to both prevent the major impacts and strengthen their economies," said Ms Figueres, who now works with Mission 2020, a group that campaigns to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

While the United States is withdrawing from the climate pact, the State Department said it is sending a delegation to the Katowice conference.

The meeting in Katowice is regarded as a key test of countries' willingness to back their lofty but distant goals with concrete measures, some of which are already drawing fierce protests.

At the top of the agenda is the so-called Paris rulebook, which will determine how governments record and report their greenhouse emissions and efforts to cut them.

Separately, negotiators will discuss ramping up countries' national emissions targets after 2020, and financial support for poor nations that are struggling to adapt to climate change.

The shift away from fossil fuels, which scientists say has to happen by 2050, is expected to require a major overhaul of world economies.

"The good news is that we do know a lot of what we need to be able to do to get there," said David Waskow of the World Resources Institute.

Mr Waskow, who has followed climate talks for years, said despite the Trump administration's refusal to back this global effort the momentum is going in the right direction.

"It's not one or two players anymore in the international arena," he said.

"It's what I think you could call a distributed leadership, where you have a number of countries - some of them small or medium-sized - really making headway and doing it in tandem with cities and states and businesses."

Not far from the meeting venue, Polish anti-coal activists held a small protest on Sunday.

It was dwarfed by marches in Brussels, Berlin and Cologne over the weekend calling for greater action to curb climate change.

But the governor of Germany's most populous state said on Sunday it was premature to set a firm date for phasing out the use of coal-fired power plants.

Armin Laschet, the governor of North Rhine-Westphalia state, told the Funke media group that Germany's decision to stop mining and burning lignite coal "must be considered seriously and decided with broad consensus".

German officials had hoped to present a blueprint for the country's exit from coal at the meeting in Katowice, but an expert committee delayed issuing its recommendations until next year.Dirty job: A miner finishes his shift covered in coal dust at the KWK Pniowek coal mine in Pawlowice  Poland still gets 80pc of its power from coal. Photo: Sean Gallup/Getty Images

The world is at a crossroads on climate change, a major conference featuring delegates from 200 nations was warned yesterday.

Two weeks of talks began yesterday in Poland to tackle deep political divisions at the most important UN meeting on global warming since the landmark 2015 Paris deal to shift away from fossil fuels.

Expectations are low that negotiations in Katowice, at the heart of Poland's coal region, will fully resolve concerns laid out in reports over recent weeks on the severity of rising greenhouse gas emissions.

The political climate has also been transformed since the Paris agreement and the fragile global unity that brought about that accord has shattered.

"This is a very, very important conference," UN climate chief Patricia Espinosa said. "It also takes place in a scenario where we have clear signals about the urgency with which we need to address the issues of climate change."

Four former presidents of UN talks, including Laurent Fabius of France, who led negotiations for the Paris agreement, issued a statement urging "decisive action".

Expand Close No Plan B: Polish environmental envoy Michal Kurtyka. Photo: AFP/Getty Images / Facebook

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"The world is at a crossroads and decisive action in the next two years will be crucial to tackle these urgent threats," they said in the joint statement.

However, political divisions were clear from the outset, with Brazil having withdrawn its offer to host the 2019 talks.

The United States, meanwhile, reiterated at the G20 summit in Argentina on Saturday its decision to withdraw from the Paris accord and a US commitment to all energy sources.

The other members of the group of industrialised nations - including the biggest polluter, China - reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the Paris deal, taking into account their national circumstances.

The Katowice talks precede an end-of-year deadline to produce a "rule book" to flesh out the broad details agreed in Paris on limiting the rise in global temperatures to between 1.5C and 2C.

Delegates said one of the trickiest issues could be monitoring emissions as the US, which cannot quit the pact until 2020, uses the talks to press for a level of detail it perceives as useful to its foreign policy dealings.

Poland is hosting UN climate negotiations for a third time, but the nation remains hooked on coal, the most carbon-intensive fossil fuel. Coal provides about 80pc of Poland's power and has been a major source of employment and national pride.

The younger generation is less emotionally attached to coal and is increasingly environmentally aware, though any phasing out of the fuel in Poland is likely to be slow.

The energy ministry said only last week Poland plans to invest in new coal capacity while its long-term energy strategy assumes it will still obtain about 60pc of its power from coal in 2030.

"We are here to enable the world to act together on climate change," said Poland's environmental envoy, Michal Kurtyka, who is presiding over the meeting, known as COP24.

With further meetings next year meant to build on what's decided in Katowice, he urged all countries to "show creativity and flexibility."

"The United Nations secretary-general is counting on us, all of us to deliver," Mr Kurtyka said. "There is no Plan B."

Ministers and some heads of government plan to join the discussion today, when the host nation is expected to push for a declaration ensuring a "just transition" for fossil fuel industries that face cuts and closures amid efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"Despite geopolitical instability, the climate consensus is proving highly resilient," said Christiana Figueres, a former head of the UN climate office.

"It is sad that the federal administration of the United States, a country that is increasingly feeling the full force of climate impacts, continues to refuse to listen to the objective voice of science."A man at the centre of a scandal that has engulfed the body that awards the Nobel Prize in literature has been convicted of a second rape.

The Svea Court of Appeal on Monday gave Jean-Claude Arnault two and a half years in jail for raping the same woman twice seven years ago.

In October, the 72-year-old Frenchman, who is married to a former member of the Swedish Academy board, was found guilty of one rape in 2011 and sentenced him to two years.

He was acquitted of a second rape because the victim said she was asleep at the time and the lower Stockholm District Court said her account was not reliable.

But the appeals court made a different assessment, saying it was beyond any reasonable doubt that the accused was guilty of rape in the second case.

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The womans deposition gave a credible impression, adding that her account was strongly supported by those of several witnesses, and found them reliable and sufficient for a conviction.

The court also said it had taken into consideration Arnaults age and the unusually long time from the offence committed to the prosecution.

In Sweden, rape is punishable by a minimum of two years and a maximum of six years in prison.

Arnaults lawyer, Bjorn Hurtig, said the Frenchman was seriously stunned, stupefied and saddened, and they would appeal to Swedens Supreme Court.

Elisabeth Massi Fritz, the lawyer for the unnamed victim, told Swedish broadcaster SVT that her client was extremely grateful and relieved.

Prosecutor Christina Voigt called the sentence a reasonable penalty.

The sex abuse scandal led eight Swedish Academy members to either leave or disassociate themselves from the secretive bodys 18-member board.

Amid the chaos and reputational risk, this years Nobel literature award was postponed to 2019.

The charges against Arnault, the husband of poet Katarina Frostenson, have rocked the prestigious body and prompted Ms Frostenson to leave it.

He is also suspected of leaking the name of Nobel Prize literature winners, allegedly seven times, starting in 1996.

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The Nobel Foundation warned the academy that if it does not resolve its tarnished image, it could decide that another group would be a better Nobel host.

Earlier this month, the body said five Swedish Academy members and five outsiders, two authors, two critics and one translator, will pick two Nobel literature winners next year, the 2019 winner and the delayed 2018 winner.

They will also later choose the 2020 Nobel winner. All are Swedes.

In 2017, 18 women came forward in a Swedish newspaper with abuse accusations against Arnault.

An academy investigation found in April that unacceptable behaviour in the form of unwanted intimacy had taken place in the ranks of the prestigious institution.

The academys former permanent secretary, Sara Danius, quit in April at the same time as Ms Frostenson, leading observers to wonder why some of Swedens most accomplished women appeared to be the taking the fall for a mans alleged misconduct.

A fierce internal debate over how to face up to the academys flaws divided its members into hostile camps.

After the sex abuse allegations surfaced, the academys annual funding to Arnaults cultural centre was immediately halted, and the body stressed it had not been paid to Arnault personally.Denial: Benjamin Netanyahu said nothing would come of the claims. Photo: REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun

Israeli police say they have found enough evidence for bribery and fraud charges to be brought against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife in a third corruption case against the Israeli leader.

Authorities allege Mr Netanyahu awarded regulatory favours to Israel's leading telecommunications company, Bezeq Telecom Israel, in return for more positive coverage of him and his wife on a news website, 'Walla', owned by the company. Mr Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing.

If indicted, the four-term prime minister would be facing one of the greatest challenges to his political survival. Despite his dominance of Israeli politics, the newest police recommendation comes just after his right-wing coalition's majority was reduced to one seat in parliament.

The final decision on whether to indict rests with Israel's attorney-general, who is still weighing whether to charge Mr Netanyahu in the other two cases.

Those relate to allegations that Mr Netanyahu accepted gifts from businessmen and that he tried to strike a deal with a different media mogul for better coverage in return for curbs on a competing newspaper.

Most of Mr Netanyahu's coalition partners have said they will wait for a decision by the attorney-general before making any decisions about how to react to the allegations.

Some analysts have said Mr Netanyahu could call a snap vote in light of the legal proceedings against him. The next national election is not due until November 2019. But Mr Netanyahu may want to seek a renewed mandate from the people, forcing a prosecutor to think twice before indicting him.

Mr Netanyahu has said he wants his coalition to keep going until the end of its term, but politicians close to him say that given the coalition's shaky razor-thin majority, an early election is likely.

In a joint statement yesterday with the Israel Securities Authority, police said they also found sufficient evidence to charge Shaul Elovitch, a family friend of Mr Netanyahu, with bribery. At the time, Mr Elovitch was chairman and controlling shareholder of Bezeq. The authorities said there was also evidence to charge the company's then-chief executive Stella Handler with fraud.

Mr Elovitch and Ms Handler have denied wrongdoing. They were both arrested briefly earlier this year and have resigned from Bezeq.

In their statement, the authorities said: "The main suspicion is that the prime minister took bribes and acted out of a conflict of interest by intervening and making regulatory decisions that favour Shaul Elovitch and Bezeq."

The police also recommended charges of fraud and breach of trust be brought against Mr Netanyahu and his wife.

He responded by saying the allegations had no legal basis and that nothing would come of the investigation.US senator Bernie Sanders is laying the groundwork to launch a bigger presidential campaign than his first in 2016.

Advisers are predicting he will open the 2020 Democratic presidential primary season as a political powerhouse.

A final decision has not been made, but those closest to the 77-year-old self-described democratic socialist suggest that neither age nor interest from a glut of fellow progressive presidential prospects would dissuade him from undertaking a second shot at the White House.

As Mr Sanders' brain trust gathered for a retreat in Vermont over the weekend, some spoke openly about a 2020 presidential tilt as if it was almost a foregone conclusion.

He was defeated in his bid for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016 by Hillary Clinton, who went on to lose to Donald Trump in the election.

Mr Sanders' 2016 campaign manager Jeff Weaver told The Associated Press: "This time, he starts off as a front-runner, or one of the front-runners," highlighting the senator's proven ability to generate massive fundraising through small-sum donations, as well as his ready-made network of staff and volunteers.

Mr Weaver added: "It'll be a much bigger campaign if he runs again, in terms of the size of the operation."

Amid the enthusiasm, there were also signs of cracks in Mr Sanders' political base. His loyalists are sizing up a prospective 2020 Democratic field likely to feature a collection of ambitious liberal leaders - and not the establishment-minded Hillary Clinton.

Instead, a new generation of outspoken Democrats such as Massachusetts senator Elizabeth Warren, New Jersey senator Cory Booker and California senator Kamala Harris are expected to seek the Democratic nomination.

All three have embraced Mr Sanders' call for "Medicare for All" and a 15 dollar (11.74) minimum wage, among other policy priorities he helped bring into the Democratic mainstream in the Trump era.

Acknowledging the stark differences between the 2016 and 2020 fields, Hollywood star Danny Glover, who campaigned alongside Mr Sanders in 2016, would not commit to a second Sanders candidacy when asked about it this weekend.

"I don't know what 2020 looks like right now," Mr Glover said before taking a front-row seat for Mr Sanders' opening remarks in Vermont. "I'm going to support who I feel to be the most progressive choice."

One of Mr Sanders' chief supporters from neighbouring New Hampshire, former state senate majority leader Burt Cohen, acknowledged that some people worry Mr Sanders is too old for a second run. Like Danny Glover, he's not sure if he will join Mr Sanders a second time.

Another high-profile Sanders supporter who was in attendance, Cornel West, described the Vermont senator as "the most consistently progressive one out there", suggesting that some would-be 2020 candidates have adopted Mr Sanders' words, but maintained ties to Wall Street and "militarism."

However, Mr West conceded that none of likely 2020 candidates "have as much baggage" as Mrs Clinton did.George HW Bush died surrounded by family and friends after a last meal of eggs, yogurt and fruit juice as Irish tenor Ronan Tynan sang 'Silent Night' at his bedside, it has emerged.

According to James Baker, his best friend and secretary of state, who was with the former president at the end, it was "really a very, very gentle and peaceful passing for him".

As the Bush family prepared to send his body to Washington DC today to lie in state in the Capitol's rotunda before a national day of mourning on Wednesday, Mr Baker said his friend had come to terms with his imminent death.

When Mr Baker arrived at the family home in Houston, Texas, on Friday morning, Mr Bush told him that he wanted to go to heaven.

He told the 'New York Times' that the 94-year-old asked him: "Where are we going, Bake?" to which he replied: "We're going to heaven." "That's where I want to go," said Mr Bush.

Although Mr Bush's condition had deteriorated during his final two weeks, on Friday he seemed to perk up. He enjoyed three five-minute soft-boiled eggs, a bowl of yogurt and two fruit drinks.

Later Mr Tynan, a close friend of the Bush family, called in and was asked to sing. He chose 'Silent Night', and as he sang, Mr Bush mouthed the words to the Christmas carol. It was followed by an Irish song.

Hours later, it was clear the end was close and phone calls were arranged with family members including George W Bush, his eldest son. Less than 40 minutes later, he died. ( Daily Telegraph, London)

Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021]Mexico's new president has unveiled a plan to address US-bound migration, signing an agreement with Central American leaders within hours of donning the presidential sash.

With his friend Jeremy Corbyn, the British Labour leader, among the 400 foreign dignitaries watching on, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador was sworn in on Saturday.

"Present today is my friend Jeremy Corbyn, leader of the Labour Party of Great Britain," Mr Lopez Obrador told the packed Chamber of Deputies, as Mr Corbyn stood up from his seat behind Ivanka Trump to accept the applause.

Mr Lopez Obrador thanked Donald Trump for sending his daughter to represent him, and also thanked Mike Pence, the vice-president, for attending. He then moved on to thank King Felipe of Spain and the assembled presidents for their presence.

Mr Lopez Obrador - who has vowed to work 16-hour days to resolve the country's many problems - was always expected to hit the ground running, but the speed of the migration announcement surprised many.

In a deal that will please Mr Trump, he agreed with the presidents of Honduras and Guatemala, and the vice-president of El Salvador, to create a fund to stem the US-bound flows of migrants.

The leaders agreed to ask their finance ministries, in the first quarter of 2019, to come up with a plan of programmes, projects, and specific actions aimed at jobs generation and fighting poverty in the region.

The programmes, supported by the respected UN commission for economic development in the region, CEPAL, will seek to make the Central American nations a better place to live, and thus reduce the number of those leaving.

Yesterday, Marcelo Ebrard, Mexico's foreign minister, met Mike Pompeo, his US counterpart, and today a Mexican delegation will meet a team led by Kirstjen Nielsen, the US homeland security secretary, to discuss the migrant caravans, and plans to make asylum seekers wait in Mexico for their applications to be heard.

Also today, Mr Lopez Obrador is putting the presidential jet up for sale having already thrown open the doors of Los Pinos presidential palace on Saturday, for the first time in 80 years, and turned it into a cultural centre. ( Daily Telegraph, London)

Telegraph Media Group Limited [2021]The man with ties to the body that awards the Nobel Prize in literature has been convicted of a second rape.

Jean-Claude Arnault also lost his appeal to have his original rape conviction and a two-year prison sentence reversed.

The Svea Court of Appeal on Monday gave Arnault two and a half years in jail for raping the same woman twice seven years ago.

Expand Close Jean-Claude Arnault (centre) is escorted from court at an earlier hearing (Jonas Ekstrome/AP) / Facebook

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In October, the 72-year-old Frenchman, who is married to a former member of the Swedish Academy board, was found guilty of one rape in 2011.

The sex abuse scandal led eight members to either leave or disassociate themselves from the secretive bodys 18-member board.

Amid the chaos, this years Nobel literature award has been postponed to 2019.Spains Socialists have suffered a setback in regional elections in the countrys south, the first electoral test for Prime Minister Pedro Sanchezs party since he took power in June.

The blow to the Socialists contrasted with the eruption of the anti-immigrant, extreme right Vox party, which claimed 12 seats in the 109-member regional parliament of Andalusia.

Vox had not previously held any seats in any legislative body in Spain since its founding four years ago, and now it has the key to forming a government in Spains most populated region.

Now is the moment to say loud and clear who we are and that we have come to stay, a Vox candidate told a crowd of supporters who chanted Spain! Spain! Spain!

Andalusia has been a Socialist bastion for 36 years, but the party could lose control of the government if parties on the right join forces to oust regional leader Susana Diaz, though that would require that they join forces with Vox.

With 99% of the votes counted, the Socialists won the election, but saw their support plummet to just 33 seats, compared to 47 in 2015. That left the Socialists far from the majority of 55 seats needed to govern, even if they can get the backing of the far-left party Adelante Andalucia, which took 17 seats.

Despite winning the election it is a sad night for the Socialist Party, Ms Diaz said.

There has been a real loss of ground for the Left. But the worst thing is that the extreme right, a phenomenon that has appeared in the rest of Europe, has arrived here.

The conservative Popular Party and centre-right Citizens party held 47 seats between them. That gives them fewer than the Socialists and Adelante Andalucia, so they would need the votes of Vox to reach the absolute majority.

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Ms Diaz said she would call on other parties to build a firewall against the extreme right in Spain.

Each party must decide if they are against the extreme right or if they will rely on their support to enter into government, she said.

Voxs platform includes a crackdown on immigration, a defence of Spains unity against Catalonia secessionists, restricting abortion and rolling back domestic violence laws.

Two members of Vox shouted insults at Ms Diaz when she submitted her ballot early on Sunday in Seville.

Vox said both people had been removed from their positions as voting monitors due to inappropriate behaviour.

Mr Sanchez leads a minority government in Spain since he toppled former Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, who lost a no-confidence vote.

There is speculation Mr Sanchez may call early elections if he cannot pass a national budget this year instead of serving out the legislative term that runs until 2020.Spains far-right Vox party, wave Spanish flags as they celebrate the results during regional elections in Andalusia, in Seville, Spain (Gogo Lobato/AP)

A regional election in Spain saw a surge of support for a far-right party and dealt a major setback to the ruling Socialists, prompting the prime minister on Monday to vow to defend democracy from fear.

The anti-migrant, anti-feminist and eurosceptic Vox party won 12 seats on Sunday in the 109-member parliament of Andalusia, Spains most populated region and a bastion of the Socialists for the past 36 years.

The four-year-old Vox party, which had not previously held any seats in Spain, could now be a kingmaker and oust the Socialists from Andalusias regional government if they strike a deal with conservatives and the centre-right to assemble a 59-seat majority.

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Those leaders on Monday began talks to form a regional government, which both parties said would include contacts with Vox.

The surprising win, the most favourable polls ahead of the election predicted Vox would win about five seats, also launched the partys strategy to make a dent in national politics and the European elections next year.

It was also a blow to those who had felt that sour memories of Spains 20th-century dictatorship and a consensus over the European Unions benefits had inoculated the country from a global wave of rising populism.

My government will continue working on a regenerating and pro-European project for SpainSpain's prime minister Pedro Sanchez

French far-right leader Marine Le Pen was one of the first to celebrate Voxs success, congratulating the partys national leader, Santiago Abascal, in a tweet for what she said was a very significant result for a young and dynamic movement.

In a sharp contrast, Spains Socialist prime minister, Pedro Sanchez, tweeted on Monday that my government will continue working on a regenerating and pro-European project for Spain.

He said the result will strengthen our pledge to defend the constitution and democracy against fear.

The Socialists saw their support plummet to just 33 seats, compared to 47 in 2015 and far from the majority of 55 needed to govern even if they could get the backing of Adelante Andalucia, the local brand of the anti-establishment Podemos party, which took 17 seats.

Every time you insult us, you are insulting the millions of Spanish people who listen to us and identify with our messageSantiago Abascal, Vox

The conservative Popular Party came second with 26 seats, down seven from previously, and the centre-right Citizens party more than doubled its presence in the regional assembly, capturing 21 seats.

Still, analysts said that having Spains right-wing side themselves with the far-right could backfire, especially with local, other regional and European elections next year and a possible general election that could come any time before 2020.

That was the limit of the legislative term for Mr Sanchez, who toppled former conservative prime minister Mariano Rajoy in June with a no-confidence vote.

Mr Sanchez now leads Spains weakest minority government in four decades of democracy and there is increasing speculation that he could be calling an early election.

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The acting regional president in Andalusia, Susana Diaz, blamed the Socialists loss of support on the high rate of abstention, which has been interpreted as punishment by traditional centre-left voters to the corruption scandals marring her party.

We have understood the message and we take note, said Ms Diaz, who also called on other parties to build a firewall against the extreme right in Spain.

Each party must decide if they are against the extreme right or if they will rely on their support to enter into government, Ms Diaz said.

Mr Abascal, a 42-year-old scion of a family targeted by the separatist militant group ETA in his native Basque region, celebrated Voxs victory saying the support came from those disgruntled and neglected in Andalusia who wanted to hear a party speak about issues that they felt and no other party represented.

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He also rejected the criticism from mainstream parties and media.

You havent understood anything, Mr Abascal told them during a news conference.

Every time you insult us, you are insulting the millions of Spanish people who listen to us and identify with our message.

A 100-issue Vox manifesto calls on building a Spanish nation where its 17 autonomous regions have limited powers, starting with education and health policies, and wants Catalonia to lose its self-government after last years attempt to split from Spain.

The party also advocates outlawing separatist parties, lowering taxes, reforming laws on domestic violence, restricting abortion and closing doors to undocumented migrants.PETA India took to Twitter to slam the couple. With that, PETA also shared its video from four years ago, highlighting the woes of the animals, titled, 'Captive Elephants in Jaipur: PETA India's 2014 Inspection'.

2. Old Wine In A New Bottle? Fans Think Simmba Is A Recycled Version Of Dabangg & Singham!

Simmba trailer looks like a mix of Dabangg and Singham, dont you think? Well, people on social media think so.

3. Sonali Bendre Returns To India With A Brave Smile, Says Battle With Cancer Is Not Over Yet

The diva is back in India. In the morning, Sonali Bendre landed in Mumbai along with husband Goldie Behl. Twinning in black, she had a glittering smile on her face as she walked hand-in-hand with him.

4. Beyonce Recreates Deepika Padukones Iconic Cannes' Look & We Cant Decide Who Pulled It Off Better

Well, Queen Bey AKA Beyonce, who is busy promoting her recent album Everything Is Love, just recreated her look at Global Citizen Festival in South Africa.

The actress who will be seen in Sushant Singh Rajput starrer Kedarnath and Ranveer Singh starrer Simmba, recently sent out thank you notes to the paparazzi. She was so touched by their warm and welcoming attitude towards her, even before her debut, that she wants to take them out for coffee.With Sindoor on her head, choodha on her hands and donning a saree, Priyanka Chopra finally made her first appearance as a married woman after tying the knot with Nick Jonas at Jodhpur airport.

After getting married twice in Hindu and Christian ceremonies, Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra are officially man and wife now.

They flew out of Jodhpur on Monday afternoon, and at the airport they were greeted by the fans and paparazzi. And their couple swag is still intact. Priyanka and Nick greeted the paparazzi with a Namaste.

Also Read: With Song & Dance Competition, PC-Nick Celebrate Their Sangeet In Hum Saath Saath Hain Style

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Viral Bhayani

Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas wedding ceremonies happened in typical desi style. With song and dance competition during Sangeet and groom arriving on a horse-drawn carriage, it must have been a fun-affair for all the guests.

It is said that the Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra got each others name written on their hands with Mehendi. Whats more? Rumours suggest that Priyanka Chopra got emotional during the festivities missing her father.At a time when all political party leaders seem to be playing the Hindutva card to appease a large majority of voters ahead of Lok Sabha elections 2019, Yogi Adityanath promised people that if they want Hyderabad to be renamed as Bhagyanagar then they should vote for BJP.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister made these comments while addressing a large gathering in Hyderabad where he decided to put forward his Hindutva agenda for Telangana on Sunday. He went onto say that not only the Bharatiya Janata Party was ready to rename the city snap the citys terrorist links, Times of India reported.

The gathering took place at Begum Bazaar, less than 2 km from headquarters of Assaduddin Owaisis AIMIM. Adityanath reportedly also said that BJP had taken up the mantle of establishing Ram Rajya and Telangana should also be a part of this. He added, And if you are keen to rename Hyderabad as Bhagyanagar, then vote for BJP.

Photo: BCCL/Yogi Adityanath addressing a gathering in Hyderabad

The only way that Adityanath could envisage to stop terrorism was to elect BJP in the coming elections which are set to take place on December 07 in the southern state. TOI reported the CM saying, All terror attacks have some link with Hyderabad. Had Muslim appeasement not been part of our politics, such terrorist activities would have not taken place. While Congress feeds biryani to terrorists, BJP feeds them bullets.

The central government has received a lot of flak in recent past for changing the names of cities, specifically those which had some connection with a Muslim dynasty. While Allahabad was renamed as Prayagraj, Mughal Sarai junction is now known as the Deendayal Upadhyay junction. Faizabad too is known as Ayodhya and proposals for changing Ahmedabad to Karnavati, Pune to Jijapur and Hyderabad to Bhagyanagar have also been doing the rounds.The National Green Tribunal on Monday asked the Delhi government to deposit Rs 25 crore with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for their failure to curb the problem of pollution in the city. A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel also asked the AAP government to furnish a performance guarantee of Rs 25 crore with the apex pollution monitoring body to ensure that there is no further lapse in this regard. Read More

Here's the top news of the day

Welcome To Indian Elections, EVM In Madhya Pradesh Records 45 More Votes Than Polled

The EVMs have always been in controversy during elections. This time it happened in Madhya Pradesh when the EVM used at a polling booth in Budhar town in Jaitpur constituency of Shahdol district recorded more votes than that were polled. The polling officer s registered 819 votes while the EVM later displayed 864 votes. This happened at booth number 124. Read More

Hyderabad Will Be Renamed As Bhagyanagar If BJP Comes To Power

At a time when all political party leaders seem to be playing the Hindutva card to appease a large majority of voters ahead of Lok Sabha elections 2019, Yogi Adityanath promised people that if they want Hyderabad to be renamed as Bhagyanagar then they should vote for BJP. Read More

Farmer Sends His Entire Season Savings To PM Modi To Mark Protest Against Apathy Towards Their Plight

Farmers in India, especially in states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana as well as Andhra Pradesh are staging nationwide protests since they arent getting even a penny in exchange for their crops. Read More

28-Year-Old Woman Set Ablaze For Complaining Against Harassment In UP

A woman, set on fire in Sitapur late on Saturday by two men who had harassed her, was battling for life after suffering 60 per cent burn injuries. The attack came when she was on her way to the police station for a second time, two days after being harassed, to try and file a complaint after she had been turned away by police. Read MoreVarious stories about Pakistans ISI honey trapping Indian defence officials have been headlines, but now the same method is being used by Pakistan-based terror organisations to lure the youth to join militancy. After luring them, most youth are used as carriers for delivering arms from one place to another or acting as guides to infiltrate terrorists, the official told PTI.

An intelligence-based operation had led to the arrest of Syed Shazia, a woman in her early 30s from Bandipore, a fortnight ago. It was seen that she had many accounts on social networking sites such as Facebook and Instagram which many youths in the Valley followed, they said.

Officials from the central security agencies had been keeping a watch on the Internet Protocol (IP) address used by Shazia for several months. She used to converse with youths and would promise to meet them only if a certain consignment was delivered from one place to another, the officials said.

Shazia had been in touch with some officials in the police department as well, but the officials termed it a usual tactic of double-cross as she used to report the movement of troops and not so sensitive information to her handlers across the border.

During interrogation, she told the investigators about the presence of some more women in militants ranks who had been tasked with luring youths into militancy, they said.

A week before her arrest on November 17, the Jammu and Kashmir Police had arrested Aysia Jan (28) for carrying 20 grenades in Lawaypora on the city outskirts, after receiving inputs about militants trying to smuggle arms and ammunition into the city.

Besides grenades, the police had also seized ammunition from her possession, they said.

Her monitoring had started during the probe of a case from September last year when the police killed Abu Ismail, the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror chief in the valley, and Chotta Qassim. Both were involved in last years gunning down of Amarnath pilgrims in which eight people were killed. Some documents and materials were seized from the encounter site in the outskirts of Srinagar city which indicated that an unidentified woman hailing from North Kashmir was involved in supplying arms and ammunition to the two terrorists.

It was in April this year, the woman was identified as Syed Shazia. Continuous monitoring of her social media presence showed that she was getting diktats from across the border for honey trapping and luring youths into militancy from across the border, they said.

She was in constant touch with Sherwan alias Ali of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror outfit who introduced her to Pakistan-based terrorists Sufiyan and Qasim Khan Gauri.

Later, she started working as an overground worker from Jaish terror group and was acting as the main conduit for ensuring delivery of weapons to other parts of the valley.

Before her arrest, a special police officer hailing from Handwara was picked up by police for informing Shazia that her phone had been kept on monitoring.

It was found that the special police officer identified as Irfan had been passing information to Shaiza, they said. She was arrested under various sections of Ranbir Penal Code (an equivalent of IPC) and Arms Act.The killing of tigress Avni and the controversy that sparked after it seems to have opened a can of worms for Maharashtra government as people are protesting and asking why the cubs of the tigress have not been rescued even after a month of her killing, the probe initiated by Centre run National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) have taken all the claims made by the state forest department to the cleaners.

NTCA has found inaccuracies in the self-defence theory propagated by the state government. After her killing, Maharashtra Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) A K Misra had claimed that the tigress was shot dead in self-defence. He had said that a team along with Asghar was tracking the big cat. Forester Mukhbir Sheikh managed to shoot a tranquiliser dart at her. But she got furious and charged at the team, forcing Asghar to shoot in self-defence from a distance of about 8 to 10 metres, had claimed Mishra.

But the Union Ministry for Environment and Forest (MoEF) said the committee established under the NTCA found a series of loopholes in the claims made the state government and also claimed the self-defence theory was weaved to obscure the issue.

After killing of the tigress, a war of words had broken out between Maharashtra forest officer Sudhir Mungantiwat and Union Minister Maneka Gandhi which led to the formation of two separate committees- one under NTCA and one under the state government.

The inaccuracies start with dart itself which the state government claims to have tried to tranquillize the tigress. But the source from the MoEF and state forest department told News18 that the dart was prepared three days before the incident. Not only its against the norms prescribed by the NTCA, preparing dart days ago makes it ineffective when it comes to putting the animal unconscious. The expert veterinarians from the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) in Maharashtra and the Kaziranga National Park claim that NTCA protocol says the dart must be prepared fresh.

Photo: Facebook/Let Avni Live

A vet from SGNP explained, "It isn't just a matter of SGNP. The substance used to tranquilise a big cat is a mixture and its efficacy decreases with time. So you freshly prepare the dart only when you know you're about to try and tranquilise the animal.

Avnis post-mortem report also revealed that the fascia (connective tissue under the skin) beneath darted needle was intact. The experts also say the anaesthesia require up to 30 minutes before the subject render goes unconscious and they also advise the tigress should ideally not be darted at night because after being darted, a tiger can flee rapidly making the tracking job difficult. But surprisingly, Avni was darted at 10 pm.Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singhs Mumbai reception saw massive attendance of the Bollywood celebs as well as the business biggies including the Ambanis. But the reception had a little surprise for Reliance chairperson Mukesh Ambani who was present with his family when a paparazzi lodged a complaint to the top boss himself and said, "Sir, Jio nahi chal raha!"

However, it was a joke and Mukesh Ambani took it like one.

Mukesh Ambani was present with his wife Nita Ambani, daughter Isha, sons Akash and Anant, Akash's fiancee Shloka Mehta and Anant's just friend Radhika Merchant. The incident took place when the family was busy getting clicked by media. The person who said it was also one of the photographers.

Mukesh Ambani heard the complaint of the paparazzi and went on smiling for the cameras and then walked over to Sanjay Dutt who had just arrived.

Reliance Jio is said to be Mukesh Ambanis brainchild and it has changed the internet-scape of India bringing the call and internet tariffs to almost minimal. However, there have been complaints about Jio net being slow and not working at times.In the backdrop of a constant Chinese military threat in the Indian Ocean Region, the Indian Navy is pushing for a third aircraft carrier, whose construction will start in the next three years. It is also planning to induct 56 ships and six submarines, including of an advanced class- the Project 75I.

The developments were shared on Monday by the Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, who also revealed that the second Scorpene class submarine, Khanderi, has undergone the requisite trials and will be commissioned soon. The first Scorpene submarine, INS Kalvari, was inducted last December.

The remaining Scorpene submarines are undergoing pre-induction trials. This comes in the backdrop of INS Arihant, a nuclear armed submarine, recently conducting its first deterrence patrol.

bccl

The navy is also progressing with three helicopter projects, including 111 Naval Utility Helicopters under the Strategic Partnership (SP) model and two cases of Multi Role Helicopters - 24 from the US under the Foreign Military Sales route and 123 more under the SP model.

Boosting its other capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region, a naval air station at North Andaman & Nicobar Islands for better connectivity to the region and improving surveillance capabilities.

Sources explained that initially Dornier aircraft will land in the air strip there. The navy also conducted 20 exercises with partner nations in the region this year to enhance inter-operability. India is also building maritime partnerships with countries in the Indian Ocean Region such as conducting EEZ patrols with Maldives and negotiations going on constructing a naval base in Assumption Island in Seychelles.

In Maldives, there is a government which is favourable to India. We are providing EEZ patrols with Maldives. We continue to do so...we will move forward in all discussions, not only in maritime, said Lanba.

bccl

Lanba explained that the third aircraft carrier is in its third and final phase of construction at Kochi. The Sea trials for the ship are expected to commence mid 2020 and we are closely working with all stakeholders to achieve the delivery timelines, he said.

It is important for the navy, because it builds the capability to have more carrier battle groups. Having three carriers will ensure that two are operational all time, while the third is undergoing refit.

We are working on the IAC-2 at the naval headquarters. We are deciding on the form and fit. It will be a conventional carrier, CATOBAR and will be 65,000 tons. We are having discussions with the defence ministry on working out the money.

It will take seven to 10 years to construct. We are hopeful the process will go forward. We will see start the construction of aircraft carrier within three years, he said.

bccl

On being asked if it is more feasible to have submarines over carrier battle group, the navy chief explained that a carrier battle group cannot do what a submarine can and vice versa. A submarine is for sea denial, while the a carrier battle group is for sea control. Carrier battle groups will enhance the navys role in the IOR,  he said.

Lanba explained that while the Indian Navy has overwhelming superiority over Pakistan, the balance of power rests with India over the Chinese naval forces in the Indian Ocean. However, in the South China Sea the balance of power rests with China, he added.

In the Indian Ocean, at any time there are six to eight PLA Navy ships in the Indian Ocean. There is an anti-piracy force, consisting of three ships, in the Gulf of Aden, besides three to four survey vessels. In October, a Chinese submarine was deployed and spent a month in the Indian Ocean. All this was in 2018, he said.Contrary to its name, there is nothing glittering or golden about Sonbhadra. The dominant colour is black. The leaves are black, so is the ground. Black soot covers classroom floors, textbooks, water left in a bucket overnight and the lungs of infants and adults alike.

About 180km from Varanasi with its new highway, glitzy airport and talk of development, dreams go to die. Welcome to Singhrauli zone, a 150sq km area covering 269 villages, spread over Uttar Pradeshs Sonbhadra and Madhya Pradeshs Singhrauli districts.

This is home to the most toxic cocktail of coal dust-laden air, effluent-contaminated water and heavy metal-poisoned soil.

toi

In Delhi, as PM2.5 and PM10 levels shoot up, residents start talking about leaving the city. Emergency measures are taken to control vehicular emissions, schools are shut, and panicky parents rush to buy anti-pollution masks .

In Sonbhadra, life goes on as usual. Old rumbling trucks spewing black smoke and carrying coal and stones from quarries roar up and down the highways, while aluminum and cement factories and thermal power plants throw up billowing clouds of black smoke day and night.

Ask 33-year-old Vindeshwari Singh, resident of Anpara, a village whose only claim to fame is the 3,830MW Anpara Thermal Power Station. In the last couple of years, Vindeshwaris daughters have been beset with health problems: 14-yearold daughter Ayushi has a skin rash, 8-year-old Paris hair has turned grey while 3-year-old Prakriti gets breathless after just a short run.

"Hamari zindagi barbaad hai (our life is destroyed). The air and everything around us is so polluted that if you had a year to live anywhere else, you have only six months in Anpara," she says.

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Vindeshwari has to take her children for treatment every month to a hospital in Singhrauli, spending Rs 700-800 on every visit. Her husband, a factory worker, only earns Rs 13,000 a month. "Every visit takes the whole day.

But no one is getting better. Ayushi wants to be a doctor. I want all of them to study further but I worry that their bodies may not be able to keep pace with their dreams," she says frowning at the youngest.

Its the story of every family in Anpara. Trishala Singh, 15, has fainting spells because of weakness and anaemia. Her parents have banned her from any form of sport or physical activity after she fainted in school.

Her father Dasmas Singh says it took her some days to recover. "But she is so weak that we are always fearful," he says. At 35, Singh has lost all his hair. His wife suffers from high blood pressure and thyroid problems.

Residents suffer from diseases ranging from mild breathing problems to skin diseases, and even cancer. Dr R V Singh, who practises in Sonbhadra, says air pollution caused by coal dust has a huge impact on peoples health.

"Everything from lung infection to skin diseases has grown rapidly in the last couple of years. But no policy action has been taken. Are our lungs made differently here than of those living in Delhi?" he asks.

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In the Anpara middle school, principal Janak Lali Mishra says that students often complain of difficulty in breathing and rashes. "In the mornings, it feels as if the air will choke us. If adults feel like this, you can only imagine how much worse off the children are," she says.

The environment ministry had declared Singhrauli a critically polluted area in 2009 yet has dragged its feet over corrective policy measures. Social worker Jagatnarayan Vishwakarma, who petitioned the National Green Tribunal in 2014, says there have been a series of committees to assess the extent of damage caused by industrialisation and coal mining in the region.

As recently as January 2018, the NGT asked for a committee to oversee remedial measures. Perturbed by the lack of progress, in August, the tribunal appointed a former high court judge to monitor the progress.As the Indian automobile industry moves towards the electric vehicle (EV) culture, EV Motors India Pvt Ltd has initiated its drive to bring electric charging stations to the country. The company plans to bring as many as 6500 charging stations in partnership with DLF, Delta Electronics India and ABB India over a course of 5 years. The aim, however, has been started by setting up the the first EV charging outlet in Gurugram.

Named PlugNgo, the EV charging station will essentially serve all types of electric vehicles, including electric bikes, three-wheelers, electric buses and other passenger electric vehicles. In addition, the company plans to provide remote vehicle charging, customised installation support and e-payments through their native PlugNgo mobile app for both iOS and Android.

Reuters

Moving further, EV Motors India Pvt Ltd has 20 more outlets in pipeline for Delhi/ NCR region within the next 12 months. Post that, the company plans to expand to other cities including Chandigarh, Amritsar, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Kanpur, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Bhubaneshwar, Cochin, Indore, and Chennai.

To accomplish this, the company requires a total investment of USD 200 million, which will be directed through its partners. Once set up, the charging stations will be interconnected and networked over a cloud-based platform. They will also be compliant with Indian and international standards.

In addition to the EV charging outlets, the company also plans to come up with service and help centres in the above mentioned locations.Farming, soon, may not remain the labour intensive practice that it has been since time immemorial. The credit for this can be given to advancements in technology, more specifically, to automation. In the southern coast of England, this automation has recently taken the shape of a small robot. A robot named Tom, which inspects the winter wheat crops for weeds and pests without ever getting tired.

The use of the four-wheeled robot comes as an attempt to increase farming efficiency amid rising economy strain and in an environmentally friendly manner. To solve the mentioned purposes, the robot under test digitally maps the field through artificial intelligence, GPS and smartphone technology.

The bot has been brought into existence by a company dedicated to solve farming-related issues. The Britain based agri-tech startup plans to test two other robots next, interestingly named Dick and Harry. They will work next to Tom for physical weeding, precision micro-spray, drilling and planting. There is a brain behind all the three robots, an AI software named Wilma that gathers all the intel back at the site through the robots and accordingly alternates operations.

AP

How do they help?

To think of it, it is practically impossible for humans to do what the robots are capable of. Individual attention to each plant is something only a non-tiring and dedicated worker can do and as such, the AI powered automated robots fit the description perfectly.

That being said, the bigger purpose is not to reduce the human labour per se. The robots are meant to reduce the use of pesticides and fertilisers. The ever-increasing use of these is harming the agricultural production in the long run and in ways unparalleled. Not to forget, the dropping quality and natural essence of food resulting from these.

Reuters

How is India doing in these regards?

Back home, such practices are being considered but are far from widespread adoption. There are incidents when farmers turn to technology for various aspects of farming. Around the same time last year, for instance, agri-tech startup Avanija came up with an app integrated automated system for irrigation, allowing farmers to monitor and control the irrigation only through the app.

Another farmer in Bengaluru, named Manohar Sambandam, came up with Green Robot Machinery and subsequently, the companys first product that is able to detect and pluck cotton balls individually.

Green Robot Machinery

Those are, however, one-off instances of automation helping improve the efficiency of farming in the country. A major reason for this is the labour intensive nature of agriculture in country. Labour is cheap, and combine that with the incentivised pesticides and fertilisers, and there is no reason to do away with any element of the trio.

Robots, on the other hand, will be costly. Will be because not many are working on them currently anyway. And once they do hit the markets, the initial investment will be too much for many farmers to opt for them, considering the already prevalent economic issues related with the trade.

A Possible Solution

The Small Robot Company also takes the economic factor into consideration. Hence, to ease things on that part, it has come up with subscription plans for the farmers to use the robots, instead of full-fledged one-time investment.

A similar model might work for things here in India, provided initiatives are taken towards this direction. And as the dependency of the majority of population of the country is on homegrown yield, these initiatives will have to be collaborative efforts of the government bodies as well as the agri-tech players.

Reuters

Robots like Tom, Dick and Harry might be an overshot to start things with but several solutions like automatic watering and irrigation systems, aerial mapping through drones and such easy to employ automation can work wonders for the Indian agricultural scenario if used wisely.Trucks are often seen sporting random images of heroes wielding guns or female actresses in skimpy clothes, not to forget quotes like Buri nazar waale, tera muh kaala.

But somewhere in the heart of Pakistan, things are changing, one person at a time. The backs of trucks are being painted with images of girls going to school as opposed to lewd or macho images.

Using trucks as bill-boards, drivers are spreading the message of equality and condemning practices like Swara  a custom where a girl is married off as punishment for a crime committed states Gulf News.

Haji Khans truck carried the painting of a film star, but now, it carries the portrait of a girl carrying a school bag and smiling. The inscription on it is supposed to read Education is the basic right of a girl. Send your daughters to school. According to Gulf News, a truck painter at a workshop in Peshawar suggested Khan to carry the imagery as it would help curb negative practice; Khan agreed.

Truck art is a big source of publicity as the vehicle roams from Khyber to Karachi and its target audience is the rural population where most of these evil practices prevail, said Samar Minallah, a social worker, anthropologist, documentary filmmaker and the architect of this programme.

She came up with this idea through discussions with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and UNESCO, who are now financing her project.

Especially for you : ) pic.twitter.com/eFMWUVgVj3  Samar MinAllah Khan (@SamarMinallahKh) October 30, 2018

She said a truck workshop owner Hayat Khan extended his cooperation and played a pivotal role in convincing truck drivers to change the paintings. She also said that Hayat Khan talks to every arriving truck driver to his workshop about the initiative and payment of the painting is made by ADB and UNESCO.

Truck art is our profession and after launching of this project, we are now painting good pictures having a public message, said Hayat Khan.

Big changes always begin small. It might sound like nothing, just some random paintings at the back of trucks, but this is what will at least attempt to set things in motion.Jean Shafiroff, seen here with Bollywood actor Rohit Roy, was honored as the 2018 Woman of the Year at the Roshni TIA Awards Gala in New York. (photo provided)The Department of Homeland Security Nov. 30 released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking which would essentially allocate a greater share of H-1B visas to those with advanced degrees from U.S. universities. The Trump administration is revealing its animus towards India-based companies and Indian IT workers, Indian American immigration attorney Cyrus Mehta told India-West. (Raveendran/Getty Images)Demonstrators in San Jose Call for Justice and Compassion at the Border by photos: Deb Hoag text: R.R.

Monday Dec 3rd, 2018 2:44 AM

One week to the day after United States Border Patrol agents fired tear gas at migrants who tried to evade a Mexican police blockade in Tijuana and cross into the U.S., demonstrators in San Jose, California rallied during a nationwide weekend of action.

Photos by Deb Hoag. Please credit the photographer.

On December 2nd, demonstrators in San Jose rallied calling for justice and compassion at the United States southern border. Speakers included members of the South Bay activist community who have long worked for immigrant rights, who said they are extremely upset about the tear gassing of children.



Exactly one week before their protest in San Jose, United States Border Patrol agents fired tear gas at migrants who tried to evade a Mexican police blockade in Tijuana and cross into the U.S.



The protesters, who assembled in front of San Jose City Hall and marched to the federal building after a rally, were part of a nationwide "Stop The Tears Protest" organized by Families Belong Together, an umbrella organization for groups that oppose America's draconian immigration policies. Many San Jose organizations, including the San Jose Peace and Justice Center, Indivisible, and CodePink participated in the rally.

Switch the Market flag

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for targeted data from your country of choice.The insurers board will make another announcement regarding Tans successor as chief executive. During the transition period, chief financial officer Kenneth Chew will act as interim CEO and oversee the companys day-to-day activities.

A press release by TMLS credited Tan with steering the company towards the long-term strategic goal of a sustainable and profitable business in Singapore.

The Board thanks Mr Tan for his dedication and contribution to TMLS, and wishes him well for the future, said Tan Cheng Han, chairman of the board of directors at TMLS.Morants lawyers filed an application to the Court of Appeal over his conviction and sentence, after emails allegedly written by his wife to Exit International, a group founded by euthanasia campaigner Philip Nitschke, surfaced, ABC reported.

The lawyers challenged the courts decision on four grounds, including the "fresh evidence not discoverable by reasonable diligence at the time of the trial" and that the sentence was "manifestly excessive."

The emails were sent to Exit International in the months before her death. In one letter dated May 2014, Jennifer allegedly sought the organisations help to end her life "in a peaceful manner." Jennifer also allegedly wrote to the organisation after a failed suicide attempt in September, saying she had "discussed [this] with my husband but he is too upset to help me."

Nitschke said the emails proved the circumstances of the case against Morant were "shown to differ significantly from the picture painted" of him throughout the trial, ABC reported.

"Exit staff remember Jenny as being lovingly cared for by her husband, who was considered to be as kind, considerate, and as compassionate as any husband could be," Nitschke said. "While a physically able person can suicide unassisted, a person with a profound physical disability or impairment will need the help of others. Those most likely to be asked will be those closest to the person, that is the person's wife or husband, or children. The severity of the sentencing for this act of love is totally inappropriate."Wilbys comments come in the wake of a successful Series A round of funding for Huddle, which managed to raise $19.2 million  much of which will be leveraged to enable further growth.

While the company currently provides personal insurance worth $1 billion to customers across Australia, its yet to branch out into the SME space  however, Wilby says hes noticed some areas of commercial insurance which could potentially benefit from a fresh perspective.

The nature of work is changing so much, we have many people who are suddenly finding themselves as a small business owner, perhaps taking risks, and I wonder whether traditional products built to serve the commercial market are really meeting the needs of these small business owners, he said.

While the firm currently only offers policies direct, Wilby also said Huddle would be open to working with the broker channel in the future.

I would love to see a role for brokers in the future, he told Insurance Business. Some areas of insurance are quite complicated and we often forget that  but the very fact that brokers exist highlights that there is a whole bunch of folk who need extra support.

While Huddle is yet to engage the broker community, Wilby says that, if it were to happen, the structure would likely be adapted in some way, to suit its unique business model.

Id love to see how we can reimagine that model so the incentives align to drive great outcomes for our members, he said. Wed love to explore that  there is definitely a need for a segment of people who need additional help but its about how we can do that more transparently and not based on commissions.Experts estimate that there is a 30% chance of a significant earthquake striking southwestern British Columbia in the next 50 years and a 10- to15% chance of one striking Quebec, said IBC Pacific vice-president Aaron Sutherland. Todays event is an important reminder that we live in an active earthquake zone and we need to be prepared.

IBC is reminding homeowners that standard home policies do not cover earthquake damage, but earthquake coverage is available as an add-on.

All British Columbians have a role to play in creating a culture of earthquake preparedness across this province, Sutherland added. Understanding the risks will ensure British Columbians are safer and better prepared when disaster strikes.

According to a 2013 study conducted by AIR Worldwide and commissioned by IBC, a magnitude 9.0 earthquake in British Columbia would result in a total economic loss of about $75 billion. The same study also projected that a magnitude 7.1 earthquake is enough to cause $61 billion worth of damage in the Ottawa-Montreal-Quebec City corridor.

Related stories:

How earthquake risk and awareness compare coast to coast

IBC: ShakeOut 2018 was a record-smashing successPT IBS Insurance Broking Service, established in 1975, is Indonesias first licensed insurance broker. It is currently one of the countrys major insurance brokers, generating revenues of more than $10 million. The company offers integrated risk services and insurance solutions for businesses of all sizes  corporations, mid-market, and small  as well as individual customers in Indonesia. In particular, PT IBS focuses on specific industry sectors such as real estate; banking and finance; forestry and agriculture; marine; manufacturing; energy; construction; plants and equipment; and motor.

IBS Group has been a key participant in Gallaghers strategic broker partner network, Gallagher Global Alliance, for more than 15 years, said Gallagher chairman, president and CEO J. Patrick Gallagher, Jr. This is a terrific opportunity to strengthen our relationship and work even more closely in pursuit of future business opportunities.

IBS Groups operations are said to be complementary to Gallaghers overseas businesses.

Many of IBS Groups strengths are complementary to those of our London and Singapore-based Specialty and reinsurance teams, which will generate a truly symbiotic relationship, commented Gallagher overseas division CEO Vyvienne Wade.

We are very proud to have grown IBS into the diverse, integrated risk services provider it is today, and know that Gallagher is the right partner to help us realize the future growth potential of the business, remarked IBS Group president, CEO, and director Swandi Kendy.At the federal level, the Strengthening the Tenth Amendment through Entrusting States (STATES) Act  a bill in Congress that would recognize legalization of cannabis as well as the state laws that have already legalized it  is drawing close attention.

This is a bi-partisan bill in the Senate and theres a companion bill in the House, said Stewart. The president has said that he will support it in prior media statements, so really the trick is getting a floor vote in one of the two chambers. With the Democrats taking the House, the chances are that there would be a vote in the House on some version of the bill, said Stewart, adding that the cannabis issue is picking up steam in Washington, DC. Were further along than we thought wed be a year or two ago.

The other big thing to watch out for is the 2018 US Farm Bill, which hasnt been completed yet [as] theyre still negotiating, but that should be signed soon, in the next month or so, and its expected to incorporate very broad protections for hemp and for the hemp-derived CBD market. If that were to happen, and I think it will, then you can see the CBD market really take off in 2019.

In the individual states, recreational marijuana will become legal in Michigan on December 06, retail shops are currently rolling out in Massachusetts, and Minnesotas next governor recently voiced support for legalizing recreational marijuana in that state.

With Michigan legalizing, I think youre going to have a phenomenon where those surrounding Midwest states are going to have substantial pressure to start liberalizing their laws, said Elser, who will be providing more insight on regulations affecting the commercial cannabis market at the Cannabis Cover Masterclass Denver. Youre going to start to see the dominoes fall pretty quickly.

On the insurance side, Elser expects that large commercial carriers will come into the market on an admitted basis in 2019 and the London market might start making moves to enter the US cannabis space after already allowing policies to be written in Canada because of federal legalization in that country. California has meanwhile led the states in laying the groundwork for how to evaluate risks in this emerging marketplace, and how to communicate with carriers about underwriting and approving admitted products, while its insurance commissioner Dave Jones has been busy speaking with other commissioners about following in Californias footsteps  important for newcomers to this market like Michigan, New York, and New Jersey.

These departments of insurance have to be upfront in educating themselves on developing these markets as a matter of necessity, said Stewart, adding that education is key in taking action to promote best practices despite federal illegality. Its all through education  they should partner with cannabis industry and insurance industry groups, professionals and thought leaders, lawyers and accountants, and other consultants that service the industry to help create these insurance programs. Its also important to have underwriters actually go onsite. They need to go to the cultivation facility, the manufacturing facility, the retail establishment, and get their boots on the ground to understand the risks.

Take a deeper dive into this issue at Cannabis Cover Masterclass Denver.Insurance Business caught up with Anderson to learn more about what inspired him to consider changing his career path. In this exclusive interview, Anderson shares why it is important for brokers to educate their clients on cost reduction strategies.

Insurance Business: What do you think are the most challenging issues facing the insurance industry and your line of work today?

Clinton Anderson: The most challenging facing health insurance is the increase in cost and risk. There are multiple solutions for groups - however, the industry is slow to change.

IB: What are your hopes for the insurance industry moving forward?

Anderson: I am hoping that brokers start really educating groups on cost reduction strategies. I find the health data on groups can control the total cost of risk within a group. Co-morbidity factors within populations increase workers compensation claims costs.

IB: If you had the power to change one thing about the insurance industry, what would you change?

Anderson: Transparency.

IB: How did your insurance career journey start and what led you to this path?

Anderson: While working as a State Trooper, I earned a masters degree in business administration and eventually changed careers and moved to the insurance carriers side. My sister worked on the carrier side and advised me that its the best career move that an individual could make. Looking back, it was the one time Im glad I listen to my sister

IB: Tell us briefly about your company and its role in the insurance industry. What makes it different from other companies in the same space?

Anderson: Hub International is the largest privately-held brokerage firm in the world we ranked 6th overall, working for smaller firms in the past and telling the story that larger firms arent always better.

The resources, management, knowledge, and buying power set large firms apart from the smaller ones. Even though we have over 11,000 employees and 460 offices worldwide, Hub still feels like a small firm.

The most important thing that sets Hub apart from the other top 10 is that the red tape is not there. I can make one phone call to Neil Hughes (CEO Northern Region) and whatever needs to be done is done immediately. This is what makes Hub the best large brokerage firm to work for in the country.

IB: What has been the biggest obstacle you have had to overcome so far as an insurance professional and what did you do to conquer it?

Anderson: The biggest obstacle was navigating middle management in previous companies that didnt have the knowledge to build out a successful service platform. Unfortunately, the only way to conquer the problem was to move to a company that understood rapid growth.

IB: How does your educational background help you in your career in insurance?

Anderson: My education background has led to me owning and operating 15 businesses in my career so far. Taking everything learned through business ventures has allowed me to relate to current and potential customers better. Without the masters degree I would have never gained the on-the-job experience to apply it to the insurance industry.

IB: Please tell us about the Worldwide Benefit Solutions, a firm you founded in 2001.

Anderson: I started a benefits agency for ground zero and built it to 500 clients in five years. During that time, I started a TPA too. In 2006, I sold both companies to a publicly traded insurance brokerage firm.

IB: If you were not working in the insurance space, what would you be doing now?

Anderson: Believe it or not FBI, or a business owner of some type.

IB: What are your passions or hobbies outside insurance?

Anderson: My passions outside of insurance are hunting, fishing, vacationing and spending time with the family.The estimated workplace injury and illness rate in Minnesota in 2017 was the lowest since 1973, the year the state began keeping track of workplace injuries, the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) reported.

An annual Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses shows the state had an estimated 3.3 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses per 100 full-time-equivalent (FTE) workers in 2017, compared with the 2016 estimated rate of 3.4 cases per 100 FTE workers. An estimated 72,500 workers suffered nonfatal workplace injuries/illnesses in 2017, compared to 73,600 estimated cases for 2016.

The Minnesota DLI collected injury and illness records from randomly sampled Minnesota private- and public-sector workplaces (excluding federal agencies). For 2017, around 4,700 establishments provided usable responses.

Nationally, an estimated 3,475,900 nonfatal injuries and illnesses were reported in private- and public-sector workplaces for 2017  a rate of 3.1 cases per 100 FTE workers.

Other results from Minnesotas survey:A second South Carolina jury failed to reach a verdict last month in the retrial of a case by a woman whose family said her long-term use of Johnson & Johnsons baby powder led to her death from asbestos-related cancer.

The case of Bertila Boyd-Bostic, who died of a rare form of cancer in 2017 at the age of 30, is the latest in a series of trials in the United States that center around allegations that the companys talc-based powder contains cancer-causing asbestos.

In the first trial in May, a deadlocked jury at the Darlington County Court of Common Pleas in Charleston didnt reach a verdict.

J&J, which denies the allegations, to date has lost two trials and won three in the litigation over whether Johnsons Baby Powder causes mesothelioma, a tissue cancer closely linked to asbestos exposure. Jury trials in another four mesothelioma cases have resulted in mistrials because jurors could not agree on a verdict or because the plaintiff died.

J&J, faced with some 11,700 U.S. talc lawsuits, in a statement said it believed the mistrials as well as the verdicts clearing it of liability reflected the diligent review by juries in the cases.

We look forward to a new trial to present our defense, which rests on decades of independent, non-litigation-driven scientific evaluations, none of which have found that Johnsons Baby Powder contains asbestos, the company said.

Christopher Swett, a lawyer for Boyd-Bostics family, said the plaintiffs were disappointed. Swett said the trial court judge had urged the parties to consider a settlement, but that J&J refuses to be reasonable and take responsibility.

The New Brunswick, New Jersey-based company in the past has said that it was not considering to settle talc cases and currently is appealing all jury verdicts against it.

Of the 11,700 talc lawsuits, more than 9,700 involve claims over ovarian cancer, recent filings in federal court in New Jersey, where most of the cases are consolidated, showed. The remaining plaintiffs allege asbestos in J&Js talc caused them to develop mesothelioma.

J&J has been fighting talc cancer lawsuits for several years, but the litigation shifted in recent months to include allegations of asbestos contamination.

In July, a Missouri jury hit J&J with a massive $4.69 billion verdict in the first trial alleging asbestos contamination has caused ovarian cancer in 22 women. That decision is under appeal.Citing a troubling number of Hurricane Michael-related consumer complaints and claims denials, Floridas top financial regulator is urging insurers to respond more quickly and adequately to consumers recovering from the major storm that devastated the Florida Panhandle in October.

Florida CFO Jimmy Patronis, who leads the Florida Department of Financial Services, called on the insurance industry to step it up to aid consumers in their Hurricane Michael recovery in a conference call on Nov. 20 with more than 40 insurance company representatives and Insurance Commissioner David Altmaier.

Before Hurricane Michael hit, I put Floridas insurance industry on notice that I expected they would move quickly to help residents recover. Unfortunately, this hasnt been the case all around, Patronis said. My office has noticed several alarming trends since the storm made landfall, including delays in processing claims. What is even more troubling is that 13 percent of complaints to my office were related to claim denials.

Insurance consumer complaints are handled through the DFS Division of Consumer Services.

Patronis, who is originally from Panama City, Fla., compared the number of complaints related to Hurricane Michael at this point to that of Hurricane Irma, which touched almost every county in Florida when it hit in September of last year. He said approximately 30 days after Hurricane Irma, DFS had received approximately 200 consumer complaints.

Hurricane Michael impacted a smaller area  just 12 Florida counties  yet DFS received more than 100 consumer complaints through the 30 days after the Cat 4 storm made landfall on Oct. 10.

There is no reason that we should have this many complaints for an impacted area that is a small fraction of Irmas. Its completely unacceptable, Patronis said.

Patronis added, I expect insurers will step it up so that families and businesses can get back to normal. If insurers dont step up, not only will recovery be delayed, but consumers will be even more vulnerable to fraud.

As of Nov. 16, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation reported a total of 125,356 claims for all lines of business, including residential and commercial properties. The total estimated insured losses had reached $3.4 billion with 55.3 percent of the total claims received closed.

Florida Insurance Commissioner David Altmaier echoed Patronis statement to insurers saying, all insurance-related needs held by impacted consumers must be addressed swiftly and without delay.

For their part, the insurance industry says they were there as soon as possible after the storm and are still working to resolve claims.

Hurricane Michael brought a great deal of devastation, and insurers are working diligently to settle claims quickly and thoroughly, said Logan McFaddin, regional manager for insurer trade group PCI. As soon as it was safe to enter, adjusters were deployed across the impacted areas  Insurers are actively working with policyholders on alternative housing needs and processing and paying claims for home, auto, and business[es].

In the days following Michaels wrath, the majority of affected policyholders reported being pleased with their insurance carriers response, according to a survey of insurance industry performance after Hurricanes Florence and Michael from J.D. Power, which found 87 percent of Florida policyholders said their insurer had met or exceeded expectations, in its response efforts.

The J.D. Power Pulse Survey was conducted of between Oct. 19  Nov. 2 and included 650 responses from individual home and policyholders affected by Hurricanes Florence and Michael across four states: North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida and/or Georgia.

The survey found 89 percent of respondents reported that their claims had either been fully or partially covered, with 5 percent reporting their claim was unresolved. Just 4 percent had their claim denied and 2 percent were not sure.

Trey Hutt, president of Hutt Insurance Agency, which has two locations in the Panhandle, said for the most part, he has been pleased with the industrys response to Hurricane Michael.

However, he noted there is typically a lull in the recovery process about a month after the event where people have submitted their claim, had their initial visit from an adjuster and then have to wait to hear from a desk adjuster, which can take up to 10 business days in some cases.

People are very nervous when there is silence at the other end of the phone, Hutt said.

Altmaier said OIR continues to work alongside DFS to monitor the progress of the post-storm response to ensure residents impacted by Hurricane Michael are protected throughout their path to recovery.

Insurance companies must fulfill the promises theyve made to their policyholders, Altmaier said.

McFaddin said that will be the case.

Insurers will continue to be there until properties are rebuilt and Florida communities return to normal, she said.Studies published earlier this year by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Hurricane Center showing a dramatic increase in the frequency of intense rain events in the Houston area in recent years take on even more meaning in light of recent research from the University of Iowa and Princeton University finding that Houstons sprawling footprint, the overabundance of impervious surfaces such as concrete, and even its skyscrapers served not only to exacerbate the devastating and widespread flooding during Hurricane Harvey last year, but those factors also increased the amount of rainfall that occurred during the storm.

The National Hurricane Center issued a report in January showing that the flooding experienced in the Houston metro area last year as a result of Hurricane Harvey was greater than a once-in-1,000-year event, the highest level it calculates.

A more recent report, issued in late September by NOAA re-defines what a 100-year rainfall event means in Texas, finding for instance that what previously would have been considered a 100-year-rain event in the Houston area could now be classified as a more frequent, 25-year event. The study, published as NOAA Atlas 14, Volume 11 Precipitation-Frequency Atlas of the United States, Texas, upped the agencys rainfall estimate for 100-year events in the Houston area from 13 inches to 18 inches in a 24-hour period. The new values supersede those that were previously available and were based on data from the 1960s and 70s.

Harvey produced 40  60 inches of rain in the Houston area over the span of four days. According to Princeton and University of Iowa researchers, the citys widespread urbanization may be partly to blame for the increase not only in the massive flooding that occurred but for the increased precipitation, as well.

Houstons urban landscape directly contributed to the torrential rainfall and deadly flooding experienced during Hurricane Harvey in August 2017, according to Princeton and University of Iowa researchers, wrote Lynn Anderson Davy, University of Iowa, and Morgan Kelly, Princeton Environmental Institute, in summarizing a report published in the journal Nature on Nov. 15.

According to the report, Urbanization exacerbated the rainfall and flooding caused by hurricane Harvey in Houston, by Wei Zhang, Gabriele Villarini, Gabriel A. Vecchi and James A. Smith, because of urbanization, Harvey-related flooding in Houston was 21 times greater than it might otherwise have been had the storm been concentrated over a non-urban area.

Overall, we find that the probability of such extreme flood events across the studied basins increased on average by about 21 times in the period 25-30 August 2017 because of urbanization, the researchers state in a synopsis of the report.

The studys authors also say global climate models should take into account the effect of urbanization on storm-induced extreme precipitation and flooding.

Overall, Harvey caused an estimated $125 billion in damage and killed 68 people. As of July 31, 2018, the National Flood Insurance Program had recorded Harvey-related 75,865 flood insurance claims, and paid out $8,757,093,726 in losses on claims that averaged $115,430 per claim. Those figures represent not just the Houston area but losses in all affected states that received presidential disaster declarations as a result of the hurricane.

Using different computer models, the researchers looked at simulations of Harveys rainfall located in Houstons current urban profile and also in areas with the same geographic location but with open fields and crops in place of streets and skyscrapers, Lynn Anderson Davy wrote in an article for the University of Iowas Hydroscience and Engineering research center. In the simulations, the urban areas received significantly more rainfall and different rainfall patterns than that experienced in the rural areas.

Houstons skyscrapers also helped make the rainfall worse, the researchers found, by creating a drag effect that caused Harveys winds to shift upwards. When the warmer surface air met the cooler air in higher atmospheric levels, it created an optimal situation for cloud formation and precipitation, Davy wrote.

The skyscrapers also caused the storm to slow down, causing more rain to fall in concentrated areas, the researchers said.

Topics Catastrophe Flood Hurricane Education Iowa UniversitiesLast years California wildfires destroyed thousands of homes and cost billions of dollars, but they also created numerous new laws and regulations in their wake as Legislators and insurance regulators looked for ways to further protect homeowners.

With another series of record-breaking fires driving losses into the billions, the state could be in store for more laws and regulations, according to Guy Kopperud, the industry solutions principal for CoreLogic, a data provider for the industry.

Kopperud spoke with Insurance Journal as the November wildfires raged about what carriers and agents should know about the laws and regulations and why they may anticipate more laws next year.

This has been edited for clarity and brevity.

Insurance Journal: California had a particularly damaging wildfire season last year, and it looks like this year is not done. Regulators over the past year took some actions that were intended to help out home and property owners, and its yielded some new laws that insurers should be aware of. Can you talk about whats been done?

Kopperud: Really, when we look all the way back to the cedar fire in 2003 in San Diego County, we saw the same types of events happening that happened in Santa Rosa where over 3,000 properties burned. Then again in 2007, we had another 1,500 properties and the legislation changed a lot of regulations at that time as well. So, some of what were seeing today is not necessarily a lot of new legislation, but really clarifying some of the things that were passed initially back in 2003.

So, some of those are specific to the insurance industry and some are not necessarily directly related to insurance regulations, but still nonetheless help the insurance industry and the homeowners. One example of that would be anti-gouging. In the long run, that would help the insurance carriers mitigate the exorbitant amount of rent that some of these homeowners would experience after a loss.

IJ: Can you expand on the Legislation a bit? Say Assembly Bill 1797, for example?

Kopperud: The purpose of (the law) is to allow the homeowner to get an updated reconstruction cost every other year or at renewal. So, in the past, they may have gotten that every two years, it wasnt mandatory for the carrier to update that beyond that, or if the homeowner actually asks for a reconstruction cost. So, what does that mean? Well, today, were seeing that in northern California from last years fires, that quite a few properties are undervalued. When theyre undervalued, theres usually two things that occur. Either the initial reconstruction cost that was established for that property was low, or theyre experiencing demand surge. In some cases, were seeing that in northern California.

And demand surges, simply the easiest way to put that is were paying more money for labor and materials to rebuild these homes. So, on one hand, 1797 was passed to help these homeowners, but at the end of the day, if the reconstruction costs that are being generated for that home are incorrect to begin with, then renewing it every year is not gonna help the homeowner. So, its really critical to make sure that carriers are using an adequate tool to develop that reconstruction cost from the get-go.

The other thing that the carriers can do is to use a construction factor or an index to allow them to project out the cost of that home. But at CoreLogic, weve always recommended that the best practice is to recalculate that property a minimum of every two years.

IJ: What are the implications of some of these changes for carriers?

Kopperud: There are a few things that you have to consider if youre a carrier. One is that a lot of these bills really expand on the exposure that the carrier has. AB 2594 is another bill that extends a right to sue a carrier from 12 months to 24 months. So, if Im in negotiations as a homeowner with the carrier, if I dont settle within that 12-month period, then I have 24 months to turn around and sue.

Another one that is a little concerning for carriers is there was a bill by the Senate that was passed that, its SB 901, that shields utility companies from subrogation claims. So, the legislation realized that we cant blame all this on the utility companies or the utility infrastructure, so we have to do something to try and protect them or were gonna make the utility companies go out of business. So, where the carrier may have thought, We can go back and say that the utility company was responsible for some of these fires and sue them, that door has been closed.

So, the last thing I would say is there are some things here, even all the way down to the agent level, that the agent has a certain amount of exposure and certainly more responsibility. I would say one of the biggest things that isnt necessarily in a particular bill, but weve heard this case many times where a homeowner goes to an agent and says, I need coverage. Im in this high-risk area, and the agent comes back with a reconstruction cost number and the homeowner questions that number and the agent says, No, youre fine. Its enough, and lo and behold, we find out after the fires that it was nowhere near enough.

So, I think even if its not covered in a bill, the agents really have to be proactive. If the homeowner is questioning a reconstruction cost and the amount of coverage theyre looking at, they should be very cautious about saying that indeed their coverage is sufficient. They could open themselves up to liability, as well.

IJ: Do you think with the fires ongoing, and some of the chances of more fires actually throughout the month, well see more laws and some more regulations in the wake of this season?

Kopperud: I certainly think we will. As I said, a lot of these bills were clarifying existing regulations, existing laws. So, certainly, well see more. I think at the end of the day, it really comes down to are carriers utilizing tools by whoever thats providing the ability to generate a reconstruction cost? A lot of these concerns that the legislations trying to address is are the reconstruction costs that are being generated in California sufficient so that these carriers can properly provide coverage for those homeowners? Legislators are continuing to try and act on the behalf of these homeowners to help protect them and help them understand what their coverage limits really cover.

Topics Carriers California Catastrophe Natural Disasters Agencies Legislation Wildfire Energy HomeownersA Massachusetts Appeals Court has ruled that Dielectrics, a Massachusetts-based medical device manufacturer, illegally fired Ileana Bermudez after she collected workers compensation benefits and filed a lawsuit against the company.

The case, Ileana Bermudez vs. Dielectrics, Inc., came about after Career Group Staffing Services Inc., a temporary employment agency, hired Bermudez and placed her at Dielectrics Chicopee, Mass., manufacturing facility.

On July 26, 2013, Bermudez was injured when Kevin Ramos, an employee working at the facility, negligently operated a forklift, causing several large metal sheets to fall on her right foot.

Bermudez suffered a fracture to her right foot as a result, forcing her out of work for about eight weeks.

She filed a workers compensation claim that named Career Group as her employer and collected benefits from its insurer for medical bills and lost wages.

She was able to return to work at the facility in Sept. 2013, and in Dec. 2013, she was hired as a full-time employee.

In July 2015, she filed a third-party action for negligence and respondeat superior against Dielectrics and Ramos. Dielectrics then terminated Bermudez in a notice.

It is important to Dielectrics that when we promote an employee to a supervisory position, the employee has a belief in the [c]ompany and behave[s] with the [c]ompanys best interests at heart. Our supervisors need to support Dielectrics in that way so that we can entrust them to spread those same values to their subordinates, the notice stated, as referenced in the Appeals Court opinion.

When you sued Dielectrics after being compensated for your injury by workers compensation, we had little choice but to conclude that you dont believe in the company and dont have its best interests in mind, the notice continued.

As a result, Bermudez brought an action against Dielectrics for retaliatory termination.

A first judge ruled that Dielectrics wasnt an employer and couldnt be sued for retaliation but allowed Bermudez 20 days to file an amended complaint for wrongful termination in violation of public policy. Bermudez filed an amended complaint that added this public policy claim.

After Dielectrics moved to dismiss the amended complaint, however, Bermudez voluntarily dismissed her public policy claim and a second judge also dismissed her claim for retaliatory termination.

Bermudez appealed, contending that the dismissal is erroneous because her third-party negligence claim is a right.

In his opinion regarding the appeal, Associate Justice James R. Lemire pointed to the Massachusetts Workers Compensation Act, which provides wage-loss protection to employees who are injured on the job and incur a loss of earning capacity from the injury.

He stated in his opinion that prior to 1971, when an employee suffered from a work-related injury, they could choose either to file for benefits under the act or to file a third-party action for their injuries but could not do both.

In 1971, a revised version of the act abolished the necessity for an election between filing a workers compensation claim and an action against a negligent third party.

In 1991, the act was amended again through the Workers Compensation Reform Act.

The language in the first sentence of the 1971 statute, abolishing the need for an election between remedies, remained the same for the 1991 statute, Lemire stated in his opinion.

At the time of Bermudezs injury, an employee was entitled to pursue a third-party action against any person responsible for her injury after collecting benefits under the act.

Although Dielectrics argued that the right to sue for personal injury cannot be afforded by the act because it was created by common law, the Massachusetts Appeals Court disagreed, finding that Massachusetts law prohibits an employer from retaliating against its employee for exercising a right afforded by the act.

In Lemires opinion, he stated that without the 1971 amendment, Bermudez likely would not be able to sue Dielectrics for her injury because she already collected workers compensation from Career Group.

It would be unfair today to allow an employee to file both a workers compensation claim and a third-party action, yet only prevent the employer from terminating an employee for filing one claim but not the other, Lemire continued in his opinion.

As a result, the Massachusetts Appeals Court concluded that Bermudez exercised a right afforded by the act when she filed her third-party action against Dielectrics.

It also found that her amended complaint sets forth sufficient facts that Dielectrics termination of her employment was in retaliation for the third-party negligence suit.

The judgment to dismiss her amended complaint was therefore vacated.

Topics Legislation Workers' Compensation Massachusetts ManufacturingFires across North America in 2018 have continued the pattern of extreme destruction established by significant insured loss events in both Northern and Southern California last year and the 2016 disasters in Alberta and Tennessee. These events have driven the insurance industry  residential insurance carriers in particular  to re-evaluate its wildfire risk management practices and investigate new technologies to aid in that effort.

With new or updated catastrophe models and hazard scoring tools coming to market this year, as well as revamped internal inspection processes, insurers have the opportunity to take a considerable step forward in understanding their wildfire risk and the factors that differentiate individual structures. Meanwhile, high-quality aerial imagery from satellites and aircraft has become widely available but remains challenging to analyze and use at scale.

To drive forward progress, technologies such as artificial intelligence and computer vision can unlock previously unavailable property information from imagery and feed the catastrophe models and data analytics which enable more granular underwriting and risk mitigation efforts.

Such progress in this space is badly needed. This years wildfires have climbed into the lists of the most destructive, largest or deadliest events across the U.S. and California in particular. Many of these lists are now filled with events from 2017 or 2018, including the recent, heart-rending tragedy in Paradise, Calif., which was devastated by the Camp Fire, the most destructive fire in U.S. history and deadliest in over a century. The changing conditions on the ground, such as the rapid growth of exposure in the wildland-urban interface (WUI), that have resulted in this heightened level of destructive wildfires are being carefully watched across the insurance industry and government sector.

A recent article published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science (PNAS) stated that the WUI in the United States grew rapidly from 1990 to 2010 in terms of both number of new houses (from 30.8 to 43.4 million; 41 percent growth) and land area (from 581,000 to 770,000 km2; 33 percent growth), making it the fastest-growing land use type in the conterminous United States.

In January 2018, the California Department of Insurance (CDI) released a report that highlights issues with existing wildfire risk quantification tools, suggesting they are not accurate, do not provide satellite imagery that is granular enough to objectively identify fuel sources and other physical characteristics, and do not take into account mitigation done by the homeowner or community. The report described their review of the risk models and pinpointed that individual homeowner or community mitigation efforts like vegetation clearance are not considered, in addition to consideration for differences in access.

Now, the focus is turning to technology solutions that better quantify this risk across the wildfire-urban interface.

New modeling tools, in particular those from the major catastrophe modeling vendors that can incorporate building-specific defensible space information, are being delivered across the insurance industry. However, to utilize these new tools, insurers need access to high-fidelity vegetation clearance data across the exposure in their books. As called out by the CDI report, granular aerial imagery is a key component of this effort.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision technologies are the missing link in converting such visual imagery into information that can be objectively captured and used. Paired with AI, computer vision obtains actionable information from images through detection and identification of patterns or objects. This is typically done by training convolutional neural networks (CNNs) on large image datasets. This technology stack has been used across several industries, such as industrial robot control, navigation for autonomous vehicles, and medical image processing. In insurance, AI has enabled several advances in areas like driver performance monitoring, claims management through chatbots, and underwriting insights. Now, AI and computer vision can be used to provide wildfire-relevant data, such as defensible space, on a massive scale.

For example, technology to derive property intelligence information can be used at the point of underwriting or for downstream portfolio management activities, like catastrophe modeling. Attributes, such as roof condition, roof covering or tree overhang, are detected and delivered using automated aerial imagery analysis across the continental United States, with nothing more than an address. This enables insurance carriers to put less of an emphasis on data capture by the customer or agent, while still having the most impactful information available instantly to make granular decisions about a propertys risk.

Focusing on wildfire risk, imagine defensible space information delivered as structured data for every property directly into carrier underwriting systems, rather than from inconsistent onsite inspections or time-consuming manual review of imagery. This information could identify if significant vegetation, such as dense trees or shrubs, are next to the structure or even overhanging it.

Automated systems could see if a clear space for defense has been maintained to keep the structure safe if a wildfire approaches the property. They may also be able to provide information on roof covering material (i.e. wood shingle), a key rating factor in wildfire-prone areas. These could be critical pieces of information that feed directly into the quantification of risk for a structure and need to be available at the point of underwriting. Property intelligence derived from AI and computer vision, used in tandem with the next generation of risk modeling tools, has the opportunity to make decisions about wildfire risk much more granular.

As wildfire risk continues to rise with increasing exposure throughout the wildland-urban interface, insurers will be challenged to have a better understanding of the locations they are underwriting and the portfolios being managed. Solutions must center on simplifying the workflows to gather and take action on property intelligence in a way that differentiates high-risk exposures. The industry stakeholders that leverage these new technologies will continue to have an advantage for understanding and acting upon this rapidly emerging catastrophic risk, could save billions of dollars in losses, and help homeowners protect their property before its too late.

Topics California Catastrophe Natural Disasters USA InsurTech Wildfire Underwriting Property Market Data DrivenMassachusetts lawmakers are considering a bill that would require National Grid to provide health insurance to locked-out gas workers and prohibit public funds from flowing to the company until the labor dispute ends.

The bill scheduled for a legislative hearing on Tuesday is another sign of growing impatience among lawmakers over the lockout of 1,200 workers that began back in June.

Democratic House Speaker Robert DeLeo is among those who have urged National Grid to end the lockout. State regulators already moved to temporarily bar the utility from performing any non-emergency gas work after a pressurization incident caused gas service to be shut off to hundreds of Woburn homes in October.

National Grid says union leaders have refused to budge on key issues. Negotiations were expected to resume on Monday.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics MassachusettsThe new entity charged with overseeing the distribution of state funds to help Connecticut homeowners with crumbling foundations has finally received a long-awaited $19 million.

Michael Maglaras, superintendent of the Connecticut Foundation Solutions Indemnity Company, told The Associated Press on Friday that the money was deposited Thursday. He said the captive insurance company was now poised to be operational as a result, noting the entity was very much in danger of having to suspend our operations.

Maglaras said applications from affected homeowners will now be accepted in early January. He said new underwriting and claims management guidelines, modified after taking into account hundreds of public comments, will be posted online, beginning Dec. 4-10. While he didnt elaborate on what those changes include, Maglaras said theyre very significant and designed to make the payments more equitable. He urged residents to keep a close eye on the www.crumblingfoundations.org website. The insurance company will officially be launched and accepting applications 30 days later.

We are very much moving ahead with our intended plan, he said.

Release of the bond funds had been delayed due to long-running negotiations with the states Department of Housing, which Maglaras described at a recent meeting with state legislators as onerous and expensive. He said Friday that various state officials ultimately worked together to get the money released. Nearly $1 million had been previously released.

The captive insurance company had hoped to receive $20 million more in state bonding this year, but the Dec. 7 meeting of the State Bond Commission was canceled. It will now be up to Democratic Gov.-elect Ned Lamont, who will oversee the commission, to decide when that second batch of money will be released. He takes office in January.

State lawmakers created the insurance company to oversee the distribution of $100 million in bonding  $20 million a year for five years  as well as the estimated $8.5 million to $9 million in annual proceeds from a new $12 annual surcharge on Connecticut homeowners insurance policies. That surcharge is supposed to last 10 years.

Maglaras previously told The Associated Press that he expects at least $1 billion is needed to address the problem. He estimated the funds committed so far will only cover the cost of replacing foundations for 650 to 700 homes, considering the average $185,000 cost per home. He believes 5,000 to 9,000 homes with cracked and deteriorating foundations will have to be fixed over the next few years. The problem has been linked to the presence of pyrrhotite, an iron sulfide that has reacted naturally with oxygen and water over the decades.

Related:

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics ConnecticutA gas leak at a plant owned by a ChemChina subsidiary caused a blast that killed 23 people and injured 22 last week in Zhangjiakou, Hebei province, ChemChina said in a statement on Friday.

PVC producer Hebei Shenghua Chemical Industry Co suffered a leak of vinyl chloride, which caught fire and caused a chain explosion that burned trucks and buildings, ChemChina said.

In the statement posted on its website, ChemChina apologized for the accident and said it reflected serious problems in its safety management systems.

Police have detained 15 people related to the company in connection with the blast, the Zhangjiakou government said in a statement posted on its official Wechat, a messaging platform in China.

Zhangjiakou, about 155 km (100 miles) northwest of Beijing, is set to host the 2022 Winter Olympics along with the capital.

The National Administration for Work Safety Emergency Response said it would launch an inspection of all large-scale chemical plant plants in the wake of the last explosion, the official Xinhua news Agency reported.

Public anger over safety standards has grown in China in recent years after three decades of swift economic growth have been marred by accidents ranging from mining disasters to factory fires.

In August 2015, 165 people were killed in a chemical warehouse explosion in the port city of Tianjin. The government found that the disaster was causes by improperly or illegally stored hazardous materials.

China has vowed to improve industrial standards, but environmentalists say they fear oversight weaknesses persist, including an opaque production process for hazardous chemicals.

(Reporting by Meng Meng, Aizhu Chen and Min Zhang; Editing by Tom Hogue and Alison Williams)

Topics China ChemicalsMacquarie Group Ltd. is in advanced talks to create a majority-owned securities joint-venture firm in China, according to people familiar with the matter, the latest international bank seeking to establish itself in one of the worlds biggest markets.

Sydney-based Macquarie is drafting a final agreement with two Chinese conglomerates, said the people, declining to name the companies. It plans to form a three-way venture in Shanghai, and will submit its application in the next couple of months, the people said, asking not to be identified because the plans arent public. Macquarie would take a 51 percent stake in the JV, the people said.

Allowing majority foreign ownership of securities joint ventures is a key part of Chinas financial opening. The closed nature of the countrys $40 trillion financial sector has been a sore point for international firms and politicians, and one that policy makers in Beijing have been slowly working to address. On Friday, they granted UBS Group AG the first approval for overseas majority control of a securities JV. Nomura Holdings Inc. and JPMorgan Chase & Co. have also applied.

A Macquarie spokeswoman declined to comment.

Macquarie officials decided to move ahead with the JV after rule changes earlier this year allowed foreign firms to partner with companies outside the brokerage industry, said the people. The new regulations removed concerns that overseas companies looking for JV partners might be forced to buy stakes from existing brokerages at high prices, one of the people said.

Foreign companies that team up with non-securities firms to start a joint venture need at least two local partners, according to the rules. Such a setup can make it easier for the foreign entity to exert greater control.

Macquarie operates an asset management business in China, working with local insurance companies and sovereign funds to help them invest offshore. It also works in the infrastructure and real estate sectors and advises on cross-border deals.

If the Australian firm finalizes its plans, it would be the second time its tried to enter Chinas securities industry. In 2008, it signed a pact with Hengtai Securities Co. only to cancel the agreement because of concerns over management control and prices, said one of the people familiar with the matter.

Macquarie also created a trust company in 2009, selling its entire 19.9 percent stake six years later. The venture, which had initial capital of 300 million yuan ($43.5 million), aimed to offer yuan-based products and arrange domestic debt and equity financing.

Copyright 2021 Bloomberg.

Topics Mergers ChinaThe family of a Northern Illinois University student who died while enduring a fraternity hazing has reached a $14 million settlement of their lawsuit.

David Bogenberger of Palatine, Illinois, was found dead in November 2012 at Pi Kappa Alpha, the fraternity the 19-year-old was pledging.

Authorities say Bogenberger and other pledges participated in an event that required them to drink vodka and other liquor.

According to the lawsuit, a fraternity member moved Bogenberger to a bedroom after he became unconscious, rather than seeking medical attention. Toxicology results later showed Bogenbergers blood alcohol content was about five times the legal limit for driving.

Nearly two dozen Pi Kappa Alpha members pleaded guilty to criminal charges in connection with his death.

Bogenbergers family sued the fraternity and sorority members present at the party. Family attorney Peter Colardarci says the settlement was reached in August and the final payments were received earlier this month.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits IllinoisTheres still a really strong need for specialty insurance to cover cannabis businesses as well as medical professionals prescribing cannabis, according to an attorney who specializes in the sector.

Ian Stewart, a partner in Wilson Elser and chair of the law firms cannabis law practice team, estimates there are nearly 30 surplus lines carriers and a few admitted carriers serving the cannabis industry across the U.S. While it has become easier for companies to find coverage, he believes that the industry is still underserved when it comes to insurance.

Stewart has defended complex litigation in state and federal courts for more than 20 years with a focus on product liability, complex general casualty, cannabis law, transportation and marine claims, data privacy and security and intellectual property litigation. He was a speaker at the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS) conference in San Diego, Calif., in November on Navigating Cannabis Professional Liability Risks and Insurance. He discussed insurance carriers obligation to follow federal cannabis-related guidelines, underwriting best practices and mitigating professional liability risks. He also talked about opportunities carriers and brokers in the growing cannabis industry.

He sees a potential wave of consumer class action lawsuits over cannabis as well as increasing risks for doctors.

Stewart spoke with Insurance Journal about the cannabis business and what insurance professionals should know about it.

This has been edited for brevity and clarity.

Insurance Journal: How would insurance agents go about getting into the cannabis business as a specialty?

Stewart: Well, so for a broker, education is really important. I think its hard for brokers just to enter this space without some baseline knowledge because it changes so quickly. Carriers leave, carriers enter, they change their coverage type.

You know, I think that joining associations is important. There are a couple cannabis business associations that do a good job connecting brokers with other professionals in the industry to educate. For example, theres whats called the NCIA, the National Cannabis Industry Association. Theres a California version, the CCIA, California Cannabis Industry Association. Those are both good organizations for all sorts of professionals  lawyers, accountants, other consultants, brokers  to join and really educate themselves about whats happening at the ground level with licensed operators.

IJ: What sort of unique or interesting claims do you think that were seeing, expect to see, or are we seeing from these cannabis coverages?

Stewart: A couple years ago, the expectation, and it still could be true, is that product liability is the cat risk of the industry. We havent seen a wave of product claims that have come in, certainly in California over the last year as its been fully legal. But there are a few. I think that those claims are probably going to increase as public awareness happens, as the market expands, as theres more retailers and more access.

This whole sort of cohort of new adult use consumers are, you know, turning towards cannabis. And the plaintiffs lawyers are now becoming more interested because of large companies that are forming that have assets and as insurance is becoming more available.

However, I think that the sort of unspoken danger that a lot of certainly the licensed operators dont appreciate is the risk of consumer class actions. You know, basically there are cases where a consumer will come in and theyll by a product that is technically adulterated or mislabeled or contaminated in some way, maybe theyre violating some state regulation, and the state cannabis regulations are really onerous. Its really hard for operators to be fully compliant.

So, the trick is these lawyers will find a product that is in some way violating a state regulation and then file consumer class action under state consumer protection laws. Frequently those are uninsured or under-insured claims, and theyre dangerous because they have fee shifting where the attorneys can get their attorneys fees, theres statutory damages, disbursement of profits. Theyre pretty dangerous, and were starting to see those get filed now in California and elsewhere.

IJ: You mentioned something in your talk (at PLUS) about doctors looking for coverage for prescribing marijuana and that you expect that to pick up. How do you see that picking up? Where do you see these doctors going to find coverage, and what sort of coverages are they going be looking for?

Stewart: I think if you were to ask, you know, just an emergency room physician, for example, five years ago whether or not he or she needed separate coverage for cannabis-related wrongful acts or risks, the answer would be probably not. But I think these days, certainly in California, physicians who are not in the practice of making recommendations for medical cannabis nevertheless are seeing more and more patients who are using cannabis medicinally, either through a doctors recommendation or perhaps self-treating, maybe theyre now adult use consumers who are just going out and finding cannabis on their own.

Were seeing more and more issues of interactions, you know, overlay where in the past it may have been a patient who just has a drug history of marijuana and cocaine. But now that patient may be adding CBD or marijuana to their panel of medications, and maybe theres overlay with mental health issues or substance abuse. So, it can be really difficult for physicians now to tread those waters, get informed consent, adequately advise their patients, and in some cases even offer CBD or marijuana instead of opiates, for example.

And then there are other issues that are coming out for doctors. For example, theres a syndrome called cannabis hyperemesis syndrome. This is a syndrome that were seeing more and more now, and a lot of physicians arent educated on it. Basically, its heavy, heavy pot users tend to have high levels and concentrations of cannabinoids in the system, and it can actually make them ill. It can make them nauseated. So, the patient comes in and, you know, the report is, Well, Ive been nauseated. I feel bad. And the doctors say, Okay, what did you do about it? Well, I smoked a lot of pot because I thought it would help with my nausea. You know, its a vicious cycle. Some physicians are not aware of that problem, but were seeing a number of those reported cases now in California.

Related:

Topics California Agencies Legislation Cannabis Professional LiabilityA U.S. judge in California has granted preliminary approval to a $48 million settlement for investors who said Volkswagen AG made false and misleading statements over its excess diesel emissions.

Lawyers for the investors, who include police and other municipal pension funds, had estimated that the maximum they could have recovered was $147 million. But Judge Charles Breyer said the settlement agreed in August appeared fair, adequate and reasonable.

VW, in a statement, said on Friday that the proposed settlement agreement eliminates the uncertainty and considerable costs of protracted litigation in the United States and is in the best interests of the company. The ruling was issued late Wednesday.

In total, Volkswagen has agreed to pay more than $25 billion in the United States for claims from owners, environmental regulators, states and dealers, and has offered to buy back about 500,000 polluting U.S. vehicles. The buybacks will continue through 2019.

The German automaker admitted in September 2015 to secretly installing software in nearly 500,000 U.S. cars to cheat government exhaust emissions tests. The vehicles had emitted up to 40 times the legally allowable pollutants.

In 2017, VW also pleaded guilty to fraud, obstruction of justice and falsifying statements in a U.S. court. Under the plea deal, the automaker agreed to sweeping reforms, new audits and oversight by an independent monitor for three years.

Federal prosecutors in Detroit unsealed criminal charges in May against former VW Chief Executive Officer Martin Winterkorn, who remains in Germany. Two other former VW executives have pleaded guilty in the investigation and are in prison. In total, nine people have been charged in the United States.

Breyer set a date for a fairness hearing to allow further comment on the August settlement for May 10, after which a final ruling will be issued.

(Reporting by David Shepardson Editing by Sonya Hepinstall and Bill Berkrot)

Topics USA OklahomaRiley Howsden has one of those hip jobs everyone loves to hate. He works at L.A.-based video game producer Riot Games, where business attire includes hoodies, the food comes free and his job entails deducing what kinds of products gamers might buy. Aggressive players, for instance, might splurge on samurai-assassin gear for their characters.

Howsdens current data science gig couldnt be further afield from his previous one as an insurance actuary  a job so stereotypically mundane the inside joke is an extroverted actuary is someone who looks at other peoples shoes.

If I was to write a cover letter for a job, its much easier for me to detail my passion for video games than it is to detail my passion for insurance, said Howsden, 32, who spent weekends playing video games in his hometown of Oshkosh, Nebraska, population 884.

Howsdens career pivot is at the root of some soul searching going on within actuarial communities. Seasoned actuaries often earn more than $200,000, and the field perennially ranks near the top of best career surveys. A Bankrate.com survey from this summer called actuarial science the most valuable bachelors degree based on pay and employment. However, industry conventions are rife with warnings that data scientists are encroaching on actuaries turf, and that their lack of speaking skills keeps them locked in bookish roles at insurers.

Mike Lombardi, a past president of the Society of Actuaries, called the industrys challenge to stay relevant an existential one in a speech last year and warned that complacency is not an option.

Data science draws the same type of students and appears to be growing far faster, according to stats from the job board Indeed.com. Job postings per million for data science or scientists rose 23 percent in October 2017 and 33 percent last month when compared with a year earlier, according to stats from Indeed.com.

Shockingly Bad Comb-Over

The situation is more muddled for actuaries. The professions two main credentialing bodies, the Society of Actuaries and the Casualty Actuarial Society, each report that membership is growing by single digits. However, Indeed.coms actuary job postings fell in 2016 and 2017 before rebounding this year; yet even with a bounce back, the number of 2018 postings are fewer than two years ago. The wave of mergers in the insurance industry could be one reason for this. But data science is increasingly performing similar functions.

Although its important to society, the insurance industry doesnt have the greatest image, said Stephen Mildenhall, an actuary and risk management professor at St. Johns University in New York. To the extent that theres a sexy part of actuarial jobs, its the part that data science is doing.

Actuaries have a time-honored stereotype as socially-awkward nerds. Some in the business revel in the exaggeration. When Hollywood in 2002 released About Schmidt starring Jack Nicholson as an awkward actuary with a terrible comb-over, the SOA released a sublimely geeky retort: Portrayal of actuaries as math-obsessed, socially disconnected individuals with shockingly bad comb-overs is 97.28892 percent incorrect.

$1,000 an Hour

New actuaries with the highest credentials, or fellows, typically earn $125,000 to $175,000, plus bonus, said Pauline Reimer, managing director of industry recruiter Pryor Associates. A significant number earn as much as $500,000 and $1,000-an-hour actuaries are not uncommon, said William Fornia, a pension industry actuary outside of Denver.

Were well-paid, and if a data scientist can do 60 percent of what we do and do it cheaper, thats a threat to us, Fornia said. We have to add value over what we do.

Their enviable salaries owe partly to the length of their studies and to their rarity. Becoming a full fellow requires passing a series of exams that often take seven years to complete, although people usually work full-time while studying.

Lack of Originality

Howsden left his actuarial analyst job without getting full certification after being discouraged by the lack of originality in insurance. While studying for his actuarial exams, he pursued novel ways to construct risk models and probabilities of life expectancy. When he got on the job, though, everything seemed formulaic.

Once you got into insurance, it got into ad hoc things like Excel, he said. Most of it was just pulling data down from the servers.

The Society of Actuaries and the Casualty Actuarial Society are responding to the boom in data science by offering more predictive analytics coursework, which uses data to forecast outcomes. Theyre also trying to expand their reach into industries other than insurance, said SOA president Jim Glickman .

Mary Pat Campbell, a longtime actuary now doing insurance research, is seeing more ads pushing the benefits of actuaries to banks and hedge funds, she said. She has seen younger actuaries departing for sexier industries like data science, akin to the way actuaries left for tech firms back in the 1990s. Similar to the tech bubble then, she thinks it may be a passing phase.

Actuaries have been doing data science for years, Mildenhall said, but didnt know to package it up as data science. 

Copyright 2021 Bloomberg.

Topics Data DrivenA West Virginia man has been ordered to pay $7.6 million in damages to the family of a pedestrian who was killed in a hit-and-run accident.

The Dominion Post reports the Monongalia County Circuit Court jury issued the verdict Thursday in a civil lawsuit filed by Carli Sears family against 22-year-old Alexander Hambrick of Winfield.

Authorities say Hambrick was drunk in January 2016 when he drove his pickup truck on a Morgantown sidewalk, killing Sears.

The 20-year-old Sears was a Charleston resident who attended the University of Mississippi. She was in Morgantown visiting friends.

Hambrick previously pleaded guilty to driving under the influence with death and leaving the scene of an accident with death. A judge suspended a sentence and ordered Hambrick to report to a regional jail before being sent to a correctional center for young adults.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics VirginiaKKR & Co., Blackstone Group LP and their founders must face a lawsuit alleging they failed to deliver hedge fund returns as advertised, a judge in Kentucky ruled Friday in a decision that may present new legal challenges for managers of alternative investments.

The lawsuit, filed in December 2017, claims that large asset managers misrepresented expensive and risky black-box bundles of hedge funds as safe ways to generate high returns. The suit was filed on behalf of the Kentucky Retirement Systems pension plan and state taxpayers. The plaintiffs group includes a sitting judge, a retired state trooper and a firefighter.

In rejecting the defendants bid to dismiss the case, Franklin County Circuit Court Judge Phillip Shepherd wrote in a 35-page opinion that the pleadings should be liberally construed in a light most favorable to the plaintiff and all allegations taken in the complaint to be true.

He dismissed claims against one defendant, the Government Finance Officers Association, which represents public finance officials in the U.S. and Canada, ruling that the plaintiffs failed to allege a breach of duty.

Public Scrutiny

The judge left one controversial matter pending: a plaintiffs request to subject hedge fund materials submitted in the case  which they have described as black boxes  to broad public scrutiny.

Managers of private equity and hedge funds have long battled to remain exempt from open-records requirements that apply to other government contractors and to keep the details of their relationships with public pensions confidential.

The disclosure matter is likely to be hotly contested in future proceedings. The judge ordered the parties to confer within 30 days on the scheduling of discovery and other pre-trial matters.

Very Happy

Were very happy with the result, plaintiffs attorney Michelle Ciccarelli Lerach said about the Friday ruling. The plaintiffs believe well now be able to prove our allegations.

Lerach, a class action attorney, is married to William Lerach, a disbarred former class action attorney who once sent shivers through corporate boardrooms and has acted as an adviser to the plaintiffs attorneys.

Defendants include KKR co-founders Henry Kravis and George Roberts, Blackstone founder Stephen Schwarzman, Prisma Capital Partners Chief Executive Officer Girish Reddy and Paamco CEO Jane Buchan. Several outside advisers and Kentucky pension officers and directors are also being sued.

The defendants have denied wrongdoing. The plaintiffs claims are meritless, according to Don Kelly, an attorney representing Blackstone Alternative Asset Management.

The firm fully complied with all its commitments to KRS, delivering more than $150 million in net profits to Kentucky pensioners and outperforming by nearly three times the benchmark target set forth by KRS in its contract, Kelly said in a statement. This lawsuit is an unfortunate and misguided attempt by plaintiffs lawyers to blame others for KRSs funding shortfalls, which pre-dated the investments at issue.

Kristi Huller, a spokeswoman for KKR, said in a statement that we take our fiduciary duty very seriously and continue to believe that the allegations about our firm are meritless, misplaced and misleading.

Copyright 2021 Bloomberg.

Topics Lawsuits KentuckyA powerful earthquake jolted southern Alaska on Friday morning, buckling roads, disrupting rush-hour traffic and jamming telephone service in and around Anchorage, the states largest city, but there were no reports of serious injuries.

The 7.0 magnitude quake struck about 8 miles north of Anchorage, a city of 300,000 residents accounting for about 40 percent of Alaskas population, and was followed by dozens of aftershocks that continued to rattle nerves throughout the day.

Public schools and many businesses across Anchorage closed early, and an eerie quiet settled over the citys largely deserted streets by nightfall. At least two local television stations were briefly knocked off the air by the tremor, which some people said sounded like a roar of gunfire.

Roads and bridges appeared to have been hardest hit, but Anchorage was otherwise mostly spared from major structural damage, authorities said. Power outages and disruption of phone service were widespread.

City Fire Chief Jodie Hettrick said two small, older buildings had collapsed, and that her department responded to several structure fires.

Emergency medical personnel answered 56 calls in the hours immediately after the temblor, although none involved serious injuries, Hettrick said.

The fact that we went through something this significant with this minimal amount of damage says that were a very well-prepared community, that our building codes and our building professionals have done a terrific job, Mayor Ethan Berkowitz told an earlier news conference.

The initial quake produced strong shaking within a 30-mile radius of its epicenter, with ground movement felt as far away as Fairbanks, 250 miles to the north, and Kodiak, roughly the same distance to the south, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

Thought the house was going to come apart, Anchorage-based climatologist Brian Brettschneider wrote on Twitter, posting a photo showing his kitchen floor scattered with items that had tumbled out of cupboards.

Elena Alfred, a young mother, described to Reuters how her 3-year-old son was nearly struck by a falling television at a friends apartment as the walls shuddered through the quake.

I took him just in time before the TV fell on him, she recounted from an emergency shelter, where she took the boy and his two younger siblings afterwards.

They were scared. They kept crying, she said.

A tsunami warning was issued for Cook Inlet, linking Anchorage with the Gulf of Alaska, but was later canceled.

The Trans Alaska Pipeline, which carries crude oil 800 miles from the North Slope to a marine terminal at Valdez, was shut down for about seven hours as a precaution, but no damage to the system was detected, said a spokeswoman for the operator, Aleyska Pipeline Service Co.

The quake apparently stemmed from an unnamed fault 27 miles deep inside a portion of the Earths crust known as the Pacific Plate, where it bends underneath the North American Plate, USGS geophysicist Brian Kilgore told Reuters.

Kilgore said only 15 or 16 quakes of magnitude 6 or greater have been recorded during the past century in the same region.

SCARY DAY

Morning rush-hour traffic in Anchorage came to a standstill as authorities closed the only two highways in and out of town, and commuters struggled to make their way back home from a workday cut short by the 8:30 a.m. (12:30 EST/1730 GMT) quake.

Governor Bill Walker issued a disaster declaration, calling it a scary day for Alaska.

Walker later recounted an unsettling elevator ride down from his 17th-floor office just as the quake began.

It did stop. That was good. Then it started. That wasnt good, he told reporters. It made a lot of noise and slapped around cables and all that was going on, and it was a moment of wondering. . But it was a pretty rough ride coming down.

President Donald Trump declared a federal emergency, ordering U.S. government assistance in the earthquake response and authorizing the Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate all disaster relief efforts, the White House said.

Strong earthquakes are not uncommon in seismically active Alaska but tend to occur in remote, sparsely populated regions.

Alaska has recorded earthquakes with magnitudes ranging from 7 to 8 at least once a year on average since 1900, according to the state government website. Southern Alaska was hit by a devastating 9.2 tremor in 1964, the worlds second-most powerful earthquake on record.

Images posted on social media showed supermarket floors strewn with spilled merchandise. A photo posted by a reporter at TV station KTVA showed a deserted newsroom scattered with debris and a partially collapsed ceiling.

The website for KTUU-TV featured a photo of a snow-covered highway that had buckled, with a car sitting between two deep fissures crossing the highway.

Sporting events were called off for the weekend, and Anchorage public schools were to remain closed until Wednesday to allow for safety inspections.

(Reporting by Rosen in Anchorage; Additional reporting by Gabriella Borter in New York and Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Writing by Peter Szekely in New York; Editing by Bill Tarrant, Leslie Adler and Tom Hogue)

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Earthquake AlaskaA class-action lawsuit has been filed against the maker of potato chips sold under the brand name Hawaiian, claiming the chips made in Washington state are misleading customers.

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported Michael Maeda of Honolulu and Iliana Sanchez of Los Angeles filed the suit last month, alleging Pinnacle Foods Inc. is using false and deceptive advertising as well as fraudulent and unfair business practices.

They claim they and consumers like them would not have purchased the chips, or would have paid significantly less, if they knew the snacks were made outside of Hawaii and without ingredients from the state.

The chips packaging does not say the snacks are made in Hawaii.

An attorney for the company, which is headquartered in New Jersey, declined to comment on the lawsuit.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics LawsuitsDecember 3, 2018 (Investorideas.com Newswire) There are numerous reasons why the market is punishing crypto, and more specifically utility tokens. Let's have a look at the major factors which have led to the crash.

Price Volatility:

There are two problems with Bitcoin being as volatile as it is currently is.

When prices begin to crash, merchants do not want to accept it. Some industries are super competitive with tight profit margins, they cannot afford the risk of accepting Bitcoin unless it's converted immediately to fiat. When the price escalates as it did in December 2017/January 2018 the opposite problem occurs.

Flawed Business Concepts:

The only project that promises to be an option in the market so far is Tokenize-IT, others are at the very least, awful business concepts.

For example, some projects advertise themselves as 'AirBNB on the blockchain'. Ask how they plan on marketing and they have no idea. They somehow expect the average consumer to want to purchase bitcoin with no plans on ROI except their hopes on the token's value to rise. A sloppy business with no actual business plans.

Hard Forks:

The theory is that forks are evolution, there's a disagreement between management, and both parties go their own way to then 'fork' the code. The best fork then wins.

It may prove to be valid yet it causes issues:

Market Confusion - The average consumer considers purchasing bitcoin. Dilution of Brand - The more forks, the more the value will decrease. Magic Money - Every fork teaches the market that this maximum limit is arbitrary, this destroys the limited supply concept.

Digital securities cannot be forked, this ensures the integrity of the brand and removes market confusion. Obstacles can be skipped only by those smart enough. Take the aforementioned project that goes by the name Tokenize-IT. They are the very first fully compliant platform for creating, launching and investing in tokenized assets.

Companies can conduct a compliant security token offering for verified accredited investors with both fiat and digital currency contribution options. Investors will use platform for securely storing their security token investments and managing their portfolio in a single dashboard.



Through our bank-grade compliancy standards, we ensure full KYC/AML due diligence is completed before an investor participates on our platform and meets accredited investor status.

While volatility remains a part of the crypto industry, Tokenize-IT will give you banking, finance, customer service, assistance in launching and sustaining your own ICO venture.

This means that not only will your business be backed by a company that is committed to the success of others, it also says a lot when you'll be able to acquire a broker/dealer license, supported by the government of Costa Rica, where Tokenize-IT owns the majority of the commodities.

By operating under a free trade zone regimen in Costa Rica, token offerings are exempt from income tax, capital gains tax and sales tax or value added tax, for ten years. Your venture will take advantage of costs and a firm business plan, preventing radical changes to the protocol that makes previously invalid blocks/transactions valid (hard fork).

Domiciled in Costa Rica, Tokenize-IT would seem to be ready to service the next generation of technology businesses, and scrape off any kind of disadvantages crypto ventures might face. Here's the link:

http://www.tokenizeit.cr

http://wisecr.com

Genesis Exchange and Wallet App @GenesisBlockch GBT is a powerful cryptocurrency centralized / decentralized exchange which will include a broad range of services and benefits from cryptocurrency and blockchain markets development, while avoiding complications and risks arising from crytocurrency ownership, transfer, and exchange. The powerful GBTDesk aggregator ensuring exchange of cryptocurrencies for fiat currencies under smart contracts without intermediaries is a key element of GBT. Download the Genesis Exchange and Wallet App at Google Play

Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investment involves risk and possible loss of investment. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Contact each company directly regarding content and press release questions. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. More disclaimer info: http://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp. Disclosure: Genesis Blockchain Technologies is a paid sponsor of the #CryptoCorner podcast at Investorideas.com https://www.investorideas.com/crypto-corner/ GOPH is a paid monthly PT news and social media client on Investorideas

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Renewable Energy Stock Solar Integrated Roofing (OTC: $SIRC) Announces Solar Solution Initiative for Poultry Farms

EL CAJON, CA - November 24, 2021 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Solar stock news from Investorideas.com Newswire and RenewableEnergyStocks.com - Solar Integrated Roofing Corp. (OTC: SIRC), an integrated, single-source solar power and roofing systems installation company, today announced that SIRC subsidiary USA Solar Networks has launched a new sales program targeted at U.S. poultry farmers to transition to solar and alternative energy solutions for their energy intensive operations.

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Metals / Green Energy Stock News: Defense Metals (TSX-V: $DEFN.V) (OTCQB: $DFMTF) Announces Positive Preliminary Economic Assessment For The Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Project

Vancouver, British Columbia - November 24, 2021 (Investorideas.com Newswire, MiningSectorStocks.com and RenewableEnergyStocks.com) Mining / Metals / Green Energy Stock News - Defense Metals Corp. (TSX-V: DEFN / OTCQB: DFMTF/ FSE:35D) is pleased to announce the results of its Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) and updated mineral resource estimate for the development of its Wicheeda Rare Earth Element (REE) deposit located in British Columbia, Canada.

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Mining Stock News: Aurcana Silver (TSXV: AUN) (OTC: AUNFF) Provides Operations Update

VANCOUVER, British Columbia - November 23, 2021 (Investorideas.com Newswire) AURCANA SILVER CORPORATION ("Aurcana" or the "Company") (TSXV: AUN, OTCQX: AUNFF) advises shareholders and the general market of a rock movement event at the Company's wholly owned Revenue Virginius mine.

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Breaking Tech Stock News: GBT (OTCPK: $GTCHD) Develops a Visual Design-Rule Analysis System for Integrated Circuits

San Diego, CA - November 23, 2021 (Investorideas.com Newswire) GBT Technologies Inc. (OTC PINK: GTCHD) ("GBT" or the "Company"), is developing a nanometer range EDA tool that visually advises and eliminates design rule violations during the construction of an integrated circuit physical layout.

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Breaking AI Stock News: GBT's (OTCPK: $GTCHD) Developing a Comprehensive Machine Learning Based Platform for Integrated Circuit Design, Verification, and Manufacturing

San Diego, CA - November 16, 2021 (Investorideas.com Newswire) GBT Technologies Inc. (OTC PINK: GTCHD) ("GBT" or the "Company"), is developing machine learning based software solutions to include integrated circuit design, verification and manufacturing aspects under one platform, enabling faster design, higher performance, and silicon yield. Based on its recent patented technology, GBT has started the development of a comprehensive software solution to address advanced nanometer challenges under one design environment.

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Investorideas.com Newswire:

Subscribe to Investor Ideas NewswireMILPITAS, Calif. - December 3, 2018 (Investorideas.com Newswire) SEMI, the global industry association representing the electronics manufacturing supply chain, today reported that third quarter 2018 worldwide semiconductor manufacturing equipment billings dropped 5 percent from the previous quarter to US$15.8 billion but are 11 percent higher than the same quarter a year ago.

The data are gathered jointly with the Semiconductor Equipment Association of Japan (SEAJ) from over 95 global equipment companies that provide data on a monthly basis.

The quarterly billings data by region in billions of U.S. dollars, quarter-over-quarter growth and year-over-year rates by region are as follows:

Source: SEMI (www.semi.org) and SEAJ, December 2018

The Equipment Market Data Subscription (EMDS) from SEMI provides comprehensive market data for the global semiconductor equipment market. A subscription includes three reports: the monthly SEMI Billings Report, which offers a perspective of the trends in the equipment market; the monthly Worldwide Semiconductor Equipment Market Statistics (WWSEMS), a detailed report of semiconductor equipment billings for seven regions and 24 market segments; and the SEMI Semiconductor Equipment Forecast, which provides an outlook for the semiconductor equipment market. For more information or to subscribe, please contact SEMI customer service at 1.877.746.7788 (toll free in the U.S.) or 1.408.943.6901 (International Callers). More information is also available online: www.semi.org/en/MarketInfo/EquipmentMarket.

About SEMI

SEMI connects over 2,000 member companies and 1.3 million professionals worldwide to advance the technology and business of electronics manufacturing. SEMI members are responsible for the innovations in materials, design, equipment, software, devices, and services that enable smarter, faster, more powerful, and more affordable electronic products. Electronic System Design Alliance (ESD Alliance), FlexTech, the Fab Owners Alliance (FOA) and the MEMS & Sensors Industry Group (MSIG) are SEMI Strategic Association Partners, defined communities within SEMI focused on specific technologies. Since 1970, SEMI has built connections that have helped its members prosper, create new markets, and address common industry challenges together. SEMI maintains offices in Bangalore, Berlin, Brussels, Grenoble, Hsinchu, Seoul, Shanghai, Silicon Valley (Milpitas, Calif.), Singapore, Tokyo, and Washington, D.C. For more information, visit www.semi.org and follow SEMI on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Association Contact

Michael Hall/SEMI

Phone: 1.408.943.7988

Email: mhall@semi.org

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Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.aspWhen it comes to our economy, things can turn with lightning speed, says Kyran Fitzgerald

Fine Gael has paid a high price for a fiscal rectitude that has verged, at times, on the politically ridiculous.

Ernest Blythe was finance minister between 1923 and 1932, under the partys direct predecessor, Cumann na nGaedheal.

In 1924, in a move calculated to delight austerity fetishists, he cut the old-age pension from 10 shillings to nine shillings a week (45p). Delighted opponents of the party were still bringing that up on the doorsteps at election time a half-century later.

Mr Blythe also backed the groundbreaking Shannon hydroelectric scheme, but few remember that.

In the 1950s, another Fine Gael finance minister, Gerard Sweetman, pursued vigorous austerity policies as thousands of Irish headed for the emigration boats. His government was soon turfed out.

After the oil crisis in 1973, finance minister Richie Ryan tightened the fiscal screws. This infuriated the voters and Mr Ryan featured as Richie Ruin on a very funny political satire. His measures were beginning to work when the much put-upon voters took their revenge in June 1977.

In recent times, finance minister Michael Noonan and his labour colleague, public expenditure minister, Brendan Howlin, squeezed people hard. The medicine tasted awful, but it largely worked. People were less-than-impressed. An electoral rout ensued.

Fast forward to last week and the publication of the latest report by the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council.

The council, established in 2012, is a product of the years when the dreaded Troika held sway.

Its first chairperson, John McHale, a senior academic at NUI Galway, was a thorn in side of the Fine Gael/Labour government.

Arguably, Mr McHales advice erred on the hawkish when it came to fiscal policy. The councils role has always been that of the family scold, trying to rein in the spendthrift Mr Micawbers in the household.

Mr Micawber was arguably novelist Charles Dickens greatest creation, a jolly optimist forever hopeful that something would turn up. But Mr Micawber understood only too well how easy it was for ordinary folk to fall through the financial cracks that led to the debtors prison.

Mr McHales successor, Seamus Coffey, has always been balanced in his approach to policymaking.

This is why his latest hard-hitting assessment of the Governments performance, in the wake of the recent budget, should be taken seriously.

The budget is dismissed as not conducive to prudent economic and budgetary planning and the medium-term outlook is not credible. Mr Coffeys key point is that economies have cycles: booms and busts, or, at least, periods of fast growth followed by slowdown, followed, hopefully, by recovery.

The Irish economy has been in growth mode for six years. Foreign direct investment has acted as a turbocharger. The national books have been boosted by a surge in corporation tax receipts, which are related, in part, to OECD reforms. The council is uncertain about the reasons for the surge in such tax revenues to close to 20% of the total. There is no guarantee that this revenue bonanza will continue.

So, what we have is an ordinary cycle of recovery that has been boosted by foreign-direct-investment flows.

In other words, we have been in the middle of a super-cycle, with strong growth, in real terms, of 5% a year, when you strip out artificial factors.

Ireland has been top of the EU growth league by a country mile. This has meant an upsurge in revenues. As a country, we have also benefited from strong tail winds, which may now be changing course.

We are one the worlds most indebted countries, when you combine household, corporate, and public debt, ignoring IFSC debt.

The long era of easy global and European credit policy has greatly benefited us, but the US Federal Reserve has been tightening policy.

During this period, cash-rich technology firms have invested heavily in Ireland, but Donald Trumps tax reforms suggest that the picture going forward may not be so straightforward.

Former Central Bank governor, Patrick Honohan, advises us to ignore GDP and use the new GNI measure developed by the Central Statistics Office.

On this basis, our stock of public debt is still close to 100%. In terms of debt burden, we are far from being out of the woods.

The Fiscal Council clearly agrees with Mr Honohan. It is best to ignore GDP, even if certain pro-spending lobbyists often use it for their own purposes.

Mr Coffey appears to suggest that the current government and, in particular, finance minister, Paschal Donohue, and his boss, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, maybe a lot closer to Mr Micawber and rather more distanced from Messrs Blythe, Sweetman, and Ryan than they would have us believe.

Seamus Coffey is scathing on the way public spending, in particular, has been allowed to drift away from targets, at a time when the sun has been shining on the Irish economy.

Seamus Coffey is scathing on the way public spending has been allowed to drift away from targets, at a time when the sun has been shining on the Irish economy. Picture: Sam Boal

The surge in employment, and related drop in unemployment, has benefited the national coffers. The cost of our national debt has been at record low level, greatly reducing the carried interest cost. All of which has freed up resources for other purposes.

Despite this, what we have witnessed is an increase of 5% in real spending. It could be worse. At the height of the bubble-boom, in 2005/6, real government spending grew by a staggering 12%.

But Mr Coffey has spotted a serious drift, all the same. In 2018, a real increase of 3.5% was budgeted for. It ended up at above 5%, due to unplanned increases.

An increase of 3.5% is again promised for 2019. What odds on the increase being kept to this level?

The culprit? Health spending, in the main.

Regular overruns on the health budget are a feature going back to 2013/14. As Seamus Coffey observes, these are permanent and long-lasting. The health workforce has risen from 100,000 to 120,000. Perhaps, we simply need to be honest with ourselves as a society.

The numbers of people aged over 65 are increasing fast. The numbers aged over 80  the period when illness really kicks in  are soaring.

Life-saving drugs proliferate, but at a huge cost.

The Taoiseach dangled the promise of tax cuts at his partys recent ard fheis. Can such cuts be afforded without offsetting increases elsewhere?

There are promises that the health budget can be held at 17.3bn in 2020. Just how credible is that promise? Not at all, says the council chair.

And he warns that when it comes to our economy, things can turn with lightning speed.

The current forecast is of a ratio of debt to GNI of 84.5% by 2023. Mr Coffey warns that the debt ratio could quickly soar to over 120% in the event of an economic shock. Here, lets take ones pick, starting with a chaotic Brexit, a global financial crisis, and so on.

In which case, Mr Donohue will understand what it is like to be Mr Micawber and we could all be headed back to the debtors prison.The new director of Waterfords Winterval festival is relishing the responsibility of building on the success of an event that already attracts 500,000 to the city, writes Padraig Hoare

There are not many businesses that measure the bottom line in happiness and fun but that is exactly the currency that Tommie Ryan invests in.

Having been appointed director of Waterfords acclaimed Winterval festival this year, Mr Ryan says he is acutely aware of the privilege his role brings.

With 500,000 visiting Waterford for Winterval, families firmly expect the standards that have seen the county become Irelands Christmas capital.

Mr Ryan is expecting an influx of visitors from all over the country by the time it ends on December 23 for the mix of free and ticketed events.

This is my first year as director and a key objective for me is keeping things fresh and appealing to visitors. Funnily enough, because Waterford has now done it for seven years, the hard work may done in one way, but maybe only starting in another. Keeping things new, fresh and exciting can be challenging. That is where I come this year  to push the festival forward.

To bring 500,000 people into Waterford is incredibly important and it is hard to imagine Waterford without Winterval now. Even though it has been running only seven years, there is a generation of children that have grown up with it  all they know is Winterval at Christmas.

Also when you go and speak to businesses in Waterford, and you speak to people involved in the festival and those who get behind it, the goodwill there is amazing. People are so happy to get behind it and support in, because they see the good it does for the city, he said.

The lack of investment in the regions has been the source of contention from Government opposition, business organisations and academics in recent years  Waterford being no different. A festival like Winterval creates a boon for the local economy, Mr Ryan said.

Even when you speak to hotels, they are booked out at weekends for the last couple of months because it is now in peoples diary  you make plans to head to Waterford at Christmas. The spinoffs for shops is great  you can see and feel and buzz and the atmosphere around Waterford city at the weekend. It is amazing.

We started on November 16. It was a Saturday with the turning on of the city lights and the arrival of Santa. We had the biggest crowd weve ever had for the launch of the festival this year. That just goes to show how much the festival has grown.

Everyone involved puts in a huge effort to make sure Winterval, and by extension, Waterford, stands out from the crowd. More and more places around Ireland are having a Christmas market, or having some sort of go at a Christmas festival. Winterval was the first one to do so in a very substantial way. Because of that, weve always been ahead of the crowd. The challenge now is to keep ourselves ahead, and our spot as Irelands Christmas capital.

Promoting Waterford abroad using the lure of Winterval is also on the cards when it comes to future plans, Mr Ryan said.

Promoting Waterford internationally is certainly something we are looking towards, and are working towards that. The international market is incredibly important. Part of what Winterval does is retains tourists that might travel abroad for a Christmas experience  we can offer them that domestically.

But we also need to be able to offer then the sort of attractions for tourists, so they can come to not just Waterford but Ireland for Christmas. There is so much going on across the country, there is a great reason to visit Ireland at Christmas.

An airport with commercial flights would go a long way, he added. Waterford Airport has been without commercial flights since mid-2016 and there is an active campaign by local stakeholders to have them restored.

We would certainly welcome Waterford Airport reopening to commercial flights. We are lucky in the sense that we are only an hour away from Cork or Dublin airports but to have an airport in Waterford would be of huge benefit to the region, Mr Ryan said.

With 500,000 visiting during the festival, it is hard from the outside to see how future growth will come  but it can and will grow, according to Mr Ryan.

The ferris wheel is aglow during the Winterval festival in Waterford City.

With half a million people coming, its already pretty huge. For the last four weekends before Christmas, it gets incredibly busy. In the future, we might look at trying to grow the audience during the earlier periods and during the week. The future midweek offering will be a focus, he said.

The 28-year-old is in his dream job, having gained praise for his work on the Waterford Harvest Festival previously. Festivals infected his spirit during his teenage years.

I was 14 when I volunteered for Spraoi and worked there for quite a few years. Thats where the love affair began  working in festivals, working outside and even working in the rain. I dont think people would work in this industry unless they cared about the end product  the people who are coming and their enjoyment and their satisfaction. We are trying to create happiness, memories, goodwill and fun.(ANSA) - Bologna, December 3 - Two employees of a Ravenna-based construction company said Monday they were being held "hostage" in Kuwait after a 22 million euro contract was rescinded.

CMC workers Andrea Urciuoli and Ricardo Pinela, who have been in Kuwait City against their will for days, appealed for help from the Italian and Portuguese foreign ministries.

"We're like prisoners taken hostage, shut up at home 24 hours a day and now that the request for a deal has been revealed we're even more worried because all the suppliers will come to us," they told ANSA.

"We have no news and everything is silent. We need the intervention of the foreign ministers of Portugal and Italy".

A 2.2m grant to enhance the development of Limerick's Digital Collaboration Centre (DCC) has been announced.

Limerick's business community is celebrating after Minister Heather Humphries announced the grant to the value of 2,279,073, the first of its kind in Ireland, under the Enterprise Development Fund.

The centre will be located at 29-30 Cecil Street and will act as a major catalyst for further investment and building refurbishment in the area.

The Digital Collaboration and Virtual Reality Centre will work with multi-national companies (MNCs), small-medium enterprises (SMEs), Start-Ups and third level institutions to facilitate the use of existing technology to solve business problems.

The work of the centre will focus on business process improvement rather than new technology development.

Mayor of Limerick City and County Council, James Collins and Board member of Innovate Limerick said the news is further evidence of the ongoing growth and innovation in Limerick.

I am delighted for all involved in this project. It is proof that Limerick is a city and a region on the rise.

Limerick welcomes awarding of over 2.2 million for development of state-of the-art Digital Collaboration Centre https://t.co/b2nwssLi9B #thisislimerick pic.twitter.com/1mVkw8W3tm  Limerick Council (@LimerickCouncil) December 3, 2018

"It is a perfect example of how large multi-national companies and SMES are being provided with the best opportunities to do business and grow in this region. This project aims to position the Mid-West region as a hub of applied disruptive technology innovation.

As the first of its kind in the country, it will narrow the innovation-adoption gap for global and indigenous companies across the region through regional collaborative disruptive technology applications in services and business processes, which will support start-ups, scaling, HPSU growth and talent attraction.

Mike Cantwell CEO of Innovate Limerick said he was delighted with the news and described it as a game changer for Limerick businesses.

The centre is about connecting multi-nationals with SME's that have adjacent skills which will lead to accelerated growth. It means businesses can come to us with problems and we can off them solutions that could save them money and time.

It is a game-changer. This whole enterprise came about after businesses approached us and explained their needs.

Chief Executive of Limerick City and County Council Conn Murray said: Weve made huge strides since we launched Innovate Limerick, which has been a major stimulant for employment and innovation in Limerick city and county.

"A huge amount has gone into getting us to where we are today and I want to offer my sincere thanks to the Innovate Limerick team for their vision and hard work. This adds to our momentum and Limericks reputation.

- Digital DeskService enables retail and restaurant customers to give instant feedback via messaging apps, writes Trish Dromey

To help bricks and mortar stores to compete in the digital age, Dublin startup ServiceDock has developed an innovative customer feedback and service platform for retail and restaurant chains.

This is the first solution in the world to capture location-specific customer feedback via messaging apps. It equips brick-and-mortar stores with the type of digital customer-engagement tools that are normally only found online, said ServiceDock co-founder and CEO Oisin Ryan.

The two-year-old company, which recently concluded a 450,000 fundraising round, has already signed up some high-profile customers in Ireland, including Eddie Rockets and Captain Americas restaurant chains, as well as well as Mothercare, Woodies, and Sky retail. Mr Ryan says the company is now ready to move outside Ireland into the export market and is making plans to target large chains in the US.

ServiceDock started out in 2016 by developing a messaging-based customer service platform targeted at large businesses with call centres.

This provided a platform for businesses to handle customer service queries over popular messaging apps, such as Facebook Messenger, says Mr Ryan, who co-founded the company with Brazilian computer programmer, Leonardo Correa.

Although they launched on the market and began signing up customers, they found that large companies were slow to change their customer-service software and decided to change direction.

We pivoted and switched our focus to capturing and analysing customer feedback for chain stores, redeveloping and repurposing our platform.

As a result of prior involvement in Localmint, an online retail directory that provided information about opening hours for chain stores, the founders identified a gap in the market for a messaging-based customer feedback solution for those types of businesses.

Consumers who want to provide feedback often have no obvious way to do it, said Mr Ryan, explaining that, often, their only option is to contact the head office, not the local outlet where they have just eaten or purchased an item.

ServiceDock set to work on creating a solution that would allow consumers to provide feedback at outlet level, via messaging, and for local staff to respond directly. At the end of 2017, it developed a basic version, which was piloted by Eddie Rockets.

In 2016, when they set up at the Greenway Hub at Grangegorman, the founders had used 25,000 of their own funding.

In 2017, when they switched direction, they secured 150,000 in Angel investment.

Releasing the full version of the new platform in February this year, ServiceDock intensified its fundraising efforts and secured 200,000 from Enterprise Ireland, in high-potential startup funding, and more recently received 100,000 in private investment.

Recent investors include Ben Ward, the commercial director of Mothercare.

Mothercare became a customer in May this year and our platform is now used in its 15 stores. The best endorsement you can get from a customer is when a director decides to invest in your company, said Mr Ryan.

The funding allowed the founders to take on three employees and increase the staff size to five.

To date, the company has operated by allowing the customers of restaurant and retail chains to provide feedback and message outlets by using Facebook Messenger and its own web messenger.

In the future, it wants to extend its service to allow them to use WhatsApp, the most widely used app in Europe, and has applied for permission to do so.

In its first move outside Ireland, it will be targeting the US, because Facebook Messenger is already the messaging app of choice in that market.

We have already attended a foodservice technology event in Orlando and are following up on a few leads, said Mr Ryan, adding that it plans to use recently raised funding to expand into the US.

As an Enterprise Ireland high potential startup client, ServiceDock aims to achieve a turnover of 1m by 2020, by which time it expects to have trebled staff numbers to 15.Ryanair has launched two new Dublin routes to Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia with both routes running twice weekly.

The new routes will operate from June next year, as part of its Dublin Summer 2019 schedule.To even the most charitable observer, Theresa Mays whistle-stop tour of the UK has at times been Quixotic, writes Ruth McCarthy

Her nationwide charm offensive, in which she is battling to shore up support for the draft Brexit deal she agreed with the EU, faces an uphill struggle.

With the DUP, Labour and a sizeable number of her own Conservative MPs all opposed, the chances of the proposed deal making it through next weeks crunch Westminster vote are slim.

After two years of negotiations, the deal is a compromise which pleases neither Brexiteers nor Remainers.

For the UK, the stakes are huge. Last week, the Bank of England warned that if the UK crashes out of the EU without a deal, the pound could lose a quarter of its value and the British economy could plunge into a deep recession.

The fate of Mrs Mays deal  and perhaps her premiership too  now lies in the hands of British MPs, who will vote on whether to accept or reject it a week tomorrow on Tuesday, December 11.

But whether the deal clears its Westminster hurdle or not, the text gives some reassuring clues to what Irelands future trading relationship with the UK will look like.

Two things are clear  the British government is determined to avoid the creation of a hard border in Ireland, and is willing to make concessions in order to protect frictionless trade between the EU and a post-Brexit UK.

Much has been made of Irelands reliance on the UK, not just as the primary source of our imports but also as a key destination for our exports.

Official figures from the Department of Finance show that in services, Ireland has a big trade surplus with the UK. Some 16% of our services exports go to our British neighbours, while just 6% of the services we import come from the UK.

As one of Irelands leading exporters of financial services, Fexco knows better than most how valuable the UK is as a market.

At this stage, a reversal of Brexit looks unlikely. But whether Britain chooses an orderly divorce or a messy no deal exit, the direction of travel is clearly towards the UK ending up with some sort of Canada-style free trade agreement with the EU.

Such a destination would put Irelands services sector in a strong position. Mrs Mays Brexit plan reveals how London dare not interrupt exports from its own dominant services industry  which, lets not forget, accounts for nearly 80% of the UK economy.

Whether Mrs Mays plan succeeds or fails, Britain will have little choice but to allow Irish services exports to the UK to continue, in order to protect its own service exporters.

Ireland shouldnt take for granted the willingness of other EU countries to remain open to services imports from the UK. But the EUs offer to allow relatively free trade in financial services to continue, under a regime known as equivalence, bodes well.

With the UK Treasury predicting that all forms of Brexit will leave it worse off, future British chancellors will have limited scope for tax cuts.

Meanwhile, Irelands low corporate taxes will continue to attract global companies, and our continued membership of the EU will help us lure bright and ambitious European workers put off by the UKs post-Brexit immigration curbs.

The net effect will be to give Ireland a distinct advantage over its larger neighbour when it comes to luring global capital and talent.

Ours is a small, open economy that has already faced down one seismic financial shock in the past decade. We can do it again.

That resilience, coupled with the benefits of EU membership and continued free trade access to the UK, will give Irelands services sector a vital role to play. Irish services interdependence with the UK can be a strength, not a weakness.

While none of us would have chosen Brexit, we should seize 2019 as an opportunity to be a global bridge between both the UK and the EU.

- Ruth McCarthy is chief executive of Fexco Corporate PaymentsUp to 400 jobs could be created in West Cork after the Ludgate Hub in Skibbereen received a 2m boost to develop a centre for agri-tech and education.

The centre, which has transformed businesses in the town with 1GB of superfast broadband connectivity in recent years, is a non-profit company that provides workspace for startups and small firms.

It will receive the funds as part of the Regional Enterprise Development Fund announced by the Department of Business.

The 2m will go towards the establishment of a Ludgate Innovation Centre and a series of enterprise supports, including a startup campus, an education innovation centre and a food tech/agritech innovation centre, Business Minister Heather Humphries said.

It will be housed in a former convent building in Skibbereen.

Cork South West TD, Jim Daly said that while "Skibbereen may not be San Francisco", it could compete to attract talent in terms of quality of life, affordable housing, and schools.

He said 390 jobs would be created with the new investment.

The Skibbereen centre, which was established in 2016, is estimated to contribute almost 13m to the local economy with more than 200 jobs created.

More than 20 entrepreneurs run their businesses from the facility at present.

Cork Chamber has said Skibbereen should be a model for rural towns across the country in relation to innovation strategy.Tax breaks to encourage activity in a particular area or sector can be highly successful.

But too much success can lead to their demise. The highest-profile tax-relief eliminated in last months budget was the special Vat rate for the hospitality sector.

The preferential Vat rate of 9% has gone back up to 13.5%. That relief was conceived in 2011, when the economy was tanking and there were concerns about employment generally, but in particular in the hospitality sector.

While good reasons were advanced for its retention, few could now maintain that the countrys hotels and restaurants are in the same dire straits that they were in 2011. That was enough to mark the end of this relief.

The Home Renovation Incentive is also being eliminated in 2018, but without as much fuss. The idea behind this incentive was to give people income-tax relief to the value of the Vat they were paying the builder or contractor on the price of the work.

Like the 9% Vat rate, it was introduced when the construction industry needed a boost. Its been operating since October 2013, but is scheduled to be terminated in December. Its life was not extended in this years Finance Bill.

Revenue has published detailed statistics on the scheme. Since 2013, a staggering 2.1bn worth of work on extensions and improvements has been carried out on homes across the country. Almost 85,000 properties have been renovated.

That has resulted in claimed tax relief at a cost to the Exchequer of some 100m from the time the tax break was introduced.

However, perhaps given the need for new residential units, government clearly felt there was no need for further tax supports for an industry that should have little difficulty in generating new business.

But there can be more to tax-policy decisions than meets the eye. From time to time, tax reliefs are introduced that are less about giving benefits to taxpayers (though they do) than they are about regularising the black economy.

By creating a special tax incentive for home renovations, Revenue could be more sure that building work was being put through the books of the business. Revenue has long been suspicious of the construction industry. They tightly police it with a special tax-compliance regime unique to the industry, and known as relevant contracts tax.

This level of suspicion of the construction industry is not unique to the Irish Revenue. Some foreign revenue authorities also have special ways to police its operation, similar to the relevant contracts tax. However, the Home Renovation Incentive was more of a carrot than a stick, in achieving tax enforcement. The relief cannot be claimed without the householder identifying to Revenue the contractor who did the work and householders were happy to do so, for the prospect of a tax refund.

For anyone wishing to get work done in their home, and still get a tax break for it, time is running out. The work will need to have been completed and paid for by December 31.

Just over 51,000 have availed of the relief across its five-year time span. That number is now unlikely to grow. Most of us will be far too taken up, between now and December, preparing for Christmas, rather than ripping out bathrooms. Nevertheless, the Home Renovation Incentive was good while it lasted.

- Brian Keegan is director of public policy and taxation at Chartered Accountants IrelandTraining for staff who will be performing abortions is to begin on December 10, even though the legislation has not passed the Oireachtas.

The educational sessions will commence next week for all the staff who will be terminating pregnancies from January 1, across community and hospital settings.

Health Minister Simon Harris has said he needs the cooperation of opposition TDs to ensure abortion legislation passes to allow new services by January 1.

Because of what the minister on Sunday described as filibustering by opposition TDs in the Dail, there is growing concern that the necessary legislation to give effect to last Mays referendum result will not pass in time.

He said that while TDs who object to the bill have a right to table amendments and to speak on the bill, they must balance that right with their duty to respect the will of the people.

Substantially, it is the same as what we published in March. Of course, TDs have a right to put down amendments and to speak, but when you know today that nine women will leave the country and three women will take an abortion pill, you have to balance your rights as a TD with your duty, he said.

I really hope not; in theory, it is possible. I gave a commitment to see this in place by January.

That is still my position. I do need the cooperation of the opposition, he said.

Mr Harris pointed to the fact that Solidarity TDs have given up their private members time this week to allow the abortion legislation to progress, but Fianna Fail has refused to sacrifice its time.

Mr Harris said it is entirely hypocritical for opposition TDs to criticise the slow passage of legislation, but do nothing to quicken the process.

Mr Harris said he hopes the legislation will pass the Dail this week and move to the Seanad before the Oireachtas rises for Christmas.

My plan is to get it through the Dail this week, then to go to the Seanad, and it is possible to get it passed by the time of the recesss. I am one person in a minority government. I need the cooperation of the opposition, he said.

This week, much of the focus in the Dail will be on the ability of doctors who have a conscientious objection to opt out of offering abortion services.

This is likely to be the slowest part, the area where a lot of TDs are likely to want to speak, especially Fianna Failers who want to be able to go on their local radios and say they defended the doctors, one government source said.

Behind the scenes, the secretary general of the Department of Health has issued a notification to the deputy director general of the Health Service Executive, stating the service should be available in all 19 maternity units from the outset and has sought plans from each hospital group to have plans in place for that date.

Mr Harris also confirmed that a plan has been finalised for the provision of the 24/7 abortion helpline from January 1.(ANSA) - Rome, December 3 - Foreign Minister Enzo Moavero Milanesi said after meeting Kenyan Vice President William Ruto Monday that Italy expects Italian aid worker Silvia Romano to be swiftly released from captivity in Kenya.

A statement said Moavero had confirmed to Ruto "the strong Italian expectation for the utmost and dutiful commitment in view of the rapid liberation" of Romano.

He stressed "how much Italy cares about the careful safeguard of her safety", the note said.

Romano, 23, was abducted by armed men in a Kenyan coastal area last week and is believed to be being held in a forest where she has been forced to wear the niqab.

Kenyan police said last week the kidnappers were surrounded ad Romano would be freed shortly.

Health Minister Simon Harris has said Model Two hospitals can do more for local patients and help reduce waiting times in larger facilities.

The Minister was speaking in Bantry Hospital alongside his government colleague Minister Jim Daly. He confirmed funding for planning and design of a 5.4m endoscopy unit and a 5m rehabilitation unit, with construction on both likely to begin in 2020.

Minister Harris said the Slaintecare plan to improve the health system would only work if better use was made of capacity within the Model Two hospitals, of which Bantry is the only remote rural example in the country.

The ED in Bantry was one of those shuttered under the reconfiguration within the health service. Asked if it had improved patient care for people in the area he said: I dont know the answer to that. But what I do know the answer to is the policy of certain services needing to be provided on centralised locations is a longstanding policy of successive governments based on clinical advice.

However, he said this had created capacity within some hospitals such as Bantry and he was not convinced that is being fully utilised".

"In fact I know there is more we can be doing here with the theatres, he said.

Minister for a Mental Health Jim Daly said there were now 50 more people working in the hospital than four years ago but both he and Minister Harris conceded there can be issues with recruitment and retention of staff, including consultants.

Mr Harris said that if Slaintecare is to work, then hospitals like this need to be one busier.

We need to be, where clinically appropriate, reducing the need for people to travel to larger centres.

He said there had been positive reductions in waiting times for cataract services but Mr Daly said any plan to offer such a service in Bantry would require a new theatre, which was not likely in the short to medium term.

Minister Harris also said there were many factors in play when it came to addressing hospital overcrowding, including 2,600 beds across the system and a new GP contract he hopes will be agreed before Christmas.

He also outlined measures to increase bed capacity that have already taken place this year and said more steps will be taken in the coming weeks in areas such as primary care and winter-ready clinics to try and reduce the number of people attending emergency departments. However, he said until all the building blocks were in place the health system would still face difficulties.

Minister Harris also said he hoped to progress a strategy on biosimilar drugs in 2019. He admitted it was a priority and could achieve significant savings for the HSE but that it had taken longer than he had wished for the strategy to materialise.Update: Dozens of GPs staged a walk-out of the Irish College of General Practitioners' Extraordinary General Meeting today.

300 members attended the meeting to discuss the provision of abortion services by GPs.

According to the ICGP, 50 or so GPs walked-out after 30 minutes over objections to the official procedure of the meeting.

However, Killarney-based GP Dr Andrew O'Regan, who is Pro Life, said about one-third of the group of more than 300 walked out when the board of the ICGP "refused to accept members' motions from the floor".

The ICGP said that while they were "disappointed" at the decision, the remaining attendees held a "meaningful debate" and that a range of views were heard.

The Colleges remit is to provide training and education for all GPs, and for those GPs who wish to offer this service," said Dr Tony Cox, Medical Director of the ICGP.

"We are aware of the concerns of those with a conscientious objection to providing termination of pregnancy services, and we have successfully advocated for an 'opt-in' service and for a 24-hour helpline as the first point of information for those who seek the service.

We are sorry that those who walked out didnt stay to listen, as there was a meaningful discussion of all the issues on the agenda.

The Colleges priority is to provide a patient-centred, high quality and safe service for those who seek the service, he said.

The legislation to provide termination of pregnancy services is due to come into force in January.

Earlier: GPs entitled to 'conscientious objection' in providing abortion services, Harris says

The Minister for Health Simon Harris has said that GPs are entitled to "conscientious objection" when it comes to providing new abortion services from January.

However, Mr Harris said they have to provide information about abortion.

The Irish College of General Practitioners is holding an Extraordinary General Meeting this afternoon to discuss issues around the service.

The ICGP says it is in favour of an opt-in to the abortion service.

Doctors and healthcare professionals have a right to conscientious objection. Women also have a right to healthcare though. One right cannot trump another. Just like all citizens, doctors have different views and thats ok. But the people have spoken and the campaign is over  Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) December 2, 2018

Mr Harris says a helpline will also be set up to help women find doctors willing to carry out the scheme.

"No doctor, no nurse, no midwife is obligated to provide this [abortion] if they conscientiously object," he said.

But I can't fathom a situation where somebody in crisis, perhaps even a rape victim, would sit in front of a doctor and say 'I need help' and the doctor would say 'there's the door'.

"That's not what I know of doctors in this country.

"We have done things to further help, because I don't want women to find themselves in those awkward situations either, so we are establishing a 24/7 helpline that will be a medically-staffed helpline," he said.

Meanwhile, a number of Pro-Life GPs walked out of today's EGM when some of the GPs who put their names on an original letter in October seeking an EGM with motions left over concerns the college had not put motions to the floor.

Over 300 members are attending the meeting which is continuing this evening.

Digital DeskIrish authorities can now assist in the investigation and prosecution of criminals in other countries by providing identification evidence, under legal changes.

Gardai will also be able to receive DNA profiles and fingerprint IDs from other police forces to assist them.

This will help the investigation and prosecution of serious offences, including gangland crime, organised burglary and theft, drug trafficking and sex offending.

The provisions bring Ireland into line with existing arrangements following a lengthy preparation and testing phase.

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan signed a commencement order in respect of international cooperation provisions under the Criminal Justice (Forensic Evidence and DNA Database System) Act 2014.

The commencement of the remaining provisions in the 2014 DNA Act represents a very significant development in assisting An Garda Siochana, and indeed police forces in other jurisdictions, in the investigation of crime, said Mr Flanagan.

The coming into operation of these legal provisions will facilitate the exchange of DNA profiles and other identification evidence with other states.

He said this will assist in combating terrorism and cross-border crime.

While the bulk of the 2014 Act became operational by November 2015, the provisions in relation to the automated exchange of identification information were not.

Detailed technical and administrative work was done, including a peer-to-peer evaluation, piloting and testing the exchange of data, checking data protection requirements and EU Council approval, with the latter occurring last month.

Under the system, access to the national DNA database and automated fingerprint information system is controlled and in line with data protection law.

Searches are conducted by officers authorised for that purpose, using DNA profiles or fingerprint data that do not contain any identifying information on the person concerned.

If a search reveals a match between the data supplied and the data contained in the database being searched, the information is shared under the mutual assistance framework provided under the Criminal Justice (Mutual Assistance) Act 2008.

The 2014 Act made changes to this legislation to ensure the persons whose DNA profiles or other forensic identification data is shared with other countries have a comparable level of safeguards as is available to people subject of criminal investigations in Ireland.

The data can be shared with designated states, currently other EU countries, Iceland and Norway.

Ireland's national DNA Database System has been operational for three years and is maintained by Forensic Science Ireland.

The database enables the matching of DNA profiles from crime scenes (known as crime stains) with DNA profiles uploaded from individuals under criminal investigation, convicted criminals and former offenders.

As of the beginning of November this year, the database contained 16,361 DNA profiles of suspected offenders and convicted offenders, along with 4,971 crime stain profiles.

There have been 1,825 person-to-stain matches to date, with a crime stain match effective rate of 36.7%. This rate measures the crime-solving capacity  meaning that 37 out of every 100 crime stains uploaded to the database were linked to a person.The price of alcohol could rise "significantly" for Irish and British customers if the EU-UK Brexit backstop deal fails to make it through a Westminster vote and a no deal crisis occurs.

On Tuesday the Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland will warn "immediate" tariffs on beer, cider, glass bottles and other items will be introduced at the end of March if the deal collapses, in addition to customs check delay "additional costs" and extra VAT expenses.

In an opening statement to the Oireachtas agriculture committee this afternoon, the ABFI will say that according to the Central Statistics Office the alcohol trade between Britain and Ireland was worth 364m last year.

However, if a no-deal situation occurs, it will warn all of these exports will be unable to avoid strict tariffs on products being sent from both countries - a situation the group said will "damage" the sector and hit customs in the pocket.

"The ABFI would urge all parties to seek to ensure that a withdrawal agreement is concluded and that a no-deal Brexit is avoided. A no-deal Brexit would be seriously damaging to the Irish and UK economy, including the all-island drinks industry. The potential consequences of a no deal Brexit include immediate tariffs on barley, malt, glass bottles, apples, finished cider and other supply chain inputs; regulatory and customs checks at the Irish border leading to significant delays and additional costs, and requirement for up-front VAT payments on cross-border trade," the group will say.

The ABFI is also expected to note that any introduction of a hard border or customs checks will force trucks carrying alcohol-related goods to face up to 23,000 hours in delays crossing the border from next March.

In such a situation, it will say the likely extra travelling cost per truck could be 100 - a new expense which may be pushed onto customers.

At the same agriculture committee this afternoon, the Food Drink Ireland organisation will issue a similar warning, saying food and alcohol prices will "rise significantly" unless a Brexit deal is secured.

Highlighting many of the same concerns, the second group will say a number of Irish industries have genuine "exposure" to any Brexit fallout, with 51% of beef, 24% of dairy and 62% of "prepared consumer food" Irish exports currently being sent to Britain.

"In the event of a no-deal scenario, World Trade Organisation tariffs could increase EU food and drink export prices to the UK significantly.

"Higher trade prices will, therefore, cause export volumes from the EU to the UK to drop significantly," it will warn.The Government will be appointing judges in the coming weeks, despite anger from Independent Transport Minister Shane Ross, according to Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan.

Speaking after Taoiseach Leo Varadkar was accused of blaming judges for the delays in hearing cases, the justice minister said it is his hope that more judges will be appointed before Christmas. However, Mr Ross is said to be very unhappy at the snails pace at which his Judicial Appointments Bill is being progressed through the Seanad by Mr Flanagan.

Mr Rosss pet project aims to remove from the political realm the power of appointing members of the judiciary, but has met considerable opposition from barristers, Fine Gael, Fianna Fail, and from some leading legal members of the Seanad.

Government sources have revealed Mr Rosss growing unhappiness that the bill is still being subject to filibuster in the Seanad.

Mr Flanagan accused the opposition of twisting the words of the Taoiseach on Friday, in relation to case delays.

What we are seeing here is a deliberate attempt by Fianna Fail and opposition to target the Taoiseach and twist what he said.

He said it not just about number. It is not just about judges. It is about how cases are handled. I am satisfied to continue to recommend to Government the appointment of judges again, which I intend doing before Christmas, Mr Flanagan told RTEs The Week in Politics.

We are in a minority government situation. Notwithstanding the bills passage, judges are continued to be appointed and I speak to Shane on a regular basis.

Fianna Fails Jim OCallaghan hit out at the Taoiseachs comments, but also at the willingness of the Government to delay the appointment of judges in order to keep Mr Ross happy.

This is a government which has refused to appoint judges because of the requirements of the minister for transport.More than 20 teachers have been told they will not be paid their salaries following the snap closure of a Dublin English-language school, a trade union has claimed.

Grafton College did not open as expected on Monday leaving students and teachers in limbo in the lead up to Christmas.

Unite said 23 teachers, of which many are union members, have been left unpaid and more than 500 international students have been affected.

Regional organiser Roy Hassey said: Its official the school is closing.

Teachers were told [at the meeting] that the school is closing and that a liquidator is going to be appointed, he said.

Mr Hassey added: Teachers were told by one of the directors of the college that they will not be paid the months salary that they are owed.

The issue came to light on Saturday when teachers contacted Unite to say that they had not been paid their monthly salary on Friday.

A protest was planned to take place outside the school on Monday evening.

Its horrendous, I dont know what were going to do

It's horrendous, I don't know what we're going to do

The union is calling for a commitment from the owners and the directors that the staff will be paid whats owed to them.

Robert Dunlop, one of the teachers affected, said that he had got married on Saturday and now he was without a job.

His wife Gisela is due with their first child at the end of December.

Its horrendous, I dont know what were going to do, Mr Dunlop said.

A message posted on the Grafton College Facebook page said teachers had been overwhelmed by the level of support from the students.

Thank you so much for all your kind words, hugs and tears, it read.

Students have said that they paid fees of up to 2,000 euro to study at the college.

Its expected that they will be able to finish their courses at other colleges.

In a statement Marketing English In Ireland (MEI), which represents accredited English-language colleges in Ireland, said management of Grafton College had informed them of trading difficulties at the college and the likely impact on students.

In the event of a closure of an MEI school, it is common practice for other MEI schools to offer places to displaced students to ensure they can complete their studies.

Arrangements will be put in place by MEI to ensure all students are enabled to complete their studies, the statement read.

Mr Hassey added that the closure reinforced the need for legislation to protect the interests of both teachers and students in the highly-profitable English language sector.

Grafton College: #UniteELT teachers to hold protest this evening | Teachers owed a months pay following sudden closure https://t.co/PZEHZoiZFP pic.twitter.com/pnfN08UjDE  UNITE union Ireland (@UniteunionROI) December 3, 2018

Proposed legislation aimed at ensuring compliance with minimum labour standards is making its way through the Oireachtas.

Its expected to be debated in the Seanad on Wednesday.

It is not in the interests of teachers, students or the wider economy that rogue employers be allowed to continue operating in the English language teaching sector.[

I would appeal to all Senators to look at what is happening in Portobello and support amendments designed to ensure minimum employment standards for English language teachers, he said.

This legislation, with the amendments, needs to be fast-tracked in the interests of the sector as a whole, Mr Hassey concluded.

Attempts to contact Grafton College on Monday were not successful.

- Press AssociationAn Bord Pleanala has approved planning permission for a plastics factory in West Cork.

Residents who appealed a Cork County Council decision to grant planning for a 4,800 sq/km thermoplastics facility in Skibbereen today received confirmation from An Bord Pleanala their appeal had been rejected.

A spokesperson advised appellants conditions would be attached to the decision.

A total of 39 residents had, in January last, appealed the council's decision and had formed a campaign group called Save Our Skibbereen (SOS).

Brendan McCormack, spokesman for SOS said the group was disappointed but not surprised by yesterdays decision and would take the campaign further, if possible. Weve always expected this day, he said. Our next step will be to read the attached conditions and consult with our legal advisors about seeking a judicial review.

Documents lodged as part of the planning process by Daly Products Ltd, a subsidiary of US multinational RTP Company, said the plant would create up to 40 jobs for the town which had been welcomed by county councillors.

However, campaigners said their fear was the planned factory would damage West Corks green image. Its astounding that in 2018 when everyone is so concerned about plastic pollution, that a plastics factory is now being put in Skibbereen on the Wild Atlantic Way, Mr McCormack said. Over 6,400 signatures had been gathered in an online petition opposing the project.

The factory site, on former IDA land at Poundlick on the town's Baltimore Road, was rezoned from green belt to light industry in 2015. The factory promoters have family connections to the nearby Drinagh area.

The RTP Company had suffered a fire at their French production facility in Beaune-Vignoles near Dijon in October. According to the French press, the fire took five fire brigades and 50 staff a day to get under control, using specialist foam canons. RTPs customer services representative at the Beaune-Vignoles branch, Christine Sordet said an investigation was still underway as to the cause of the fire which began at night-time in a warehouse.

The fire was only in our warehouse of finished goods, Ms Sordet said. The factory where the machinery is housed is still functioning.

The head of RTP Company's European operations, Danny Miles has welcomed the decision, yesterday, by An Bord Pleanala to approve planning permission for a new plant in Skibbereen in West Cork.

The international company has direct links with the village of Drinagh, near Skibbereen.

Mr Mills thanked the appeal board "for taking the time to provide such a thorough review".

Skibbereen-based Cllr Joe Carroll said the Bord Pleanala decision was good news for an area which had found it hard to attract investment in industry in the past. As a local councillor, its my role to welcome any jobs I can bring to West Cork, Mr Carroll said.

But Id have no welcome for something that could impact negatively on peoples lives.

Cllr Carroll said County Hall planners had looked at the application in every possible way. The factory, he said, would provide a much-needed boost to the region. Were always looking for people to move back to the area so I give this a welcome, with a caution.

Meanwhile, Evie Nevin, a Social Democrats candidate in the next local elections, said she was "shocked and appalled" at the decision.

"Many people say it's great to bring jobs to the area but, at what cost?

"This type of thinking is the very reason our planet is in crisis," she said.

"There is plenty of opportunity to create jobs with all the investment into the Wild Atlantic Way.

"West Cork is a readymade brand and yet there is no real initiative to make it so."(see related story on budget) (ANSA) - Rome, December 3 - Italy is in danger of going into recession next year and the financial markets could end up forcing the government to change its economic policy, according to a new report by Goldman Sachs. The report on global growth entitled Landing the Plane said Italy was one of the risk factors that could complicate the outlook for the European market in 2019.

It said that, with a dispute with the European Commission over the government's budget plans "unresolved", the Italian economy was expected to "flirt with recession at the start of next year".

It forecast that Italy's GDP growth next year would be 0.4%, compared to a consensus among analysts of 1%.

The report said "Italy is casting a dark cloud" over the European market outlook, adding that "things could get worse before an improvement is seen". Goldman Sachs said it was skeptical about the ability of Brussels or Rome to "change direction" in the budget negotiations.

Its analysts said that it was "more likely that the pressure of the markets catalyzes a return to budget discipline".

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has said the State will be properly policed, whatever the outcome of Brexit.

Mr Flanagan was criticised by the opposition for failing to reveal how many extra gardai would be deployed in border counties, as the likelihood of a no-deal Brexit increases.

With little hope of British prime minister Theresa Mays plan making it through the House of Commons, Dublin has come under increasing pressure to publish its no-deal contingency plans, but has refused to do so.

Tanaiste Simon Coveney has repeatedly insisted Ireland is not preparing for a no-deal, but other government sources say otherwise, insisting Mr Coveneys office has ordered silence.

Mr Flanagan said that in terms of policing the border, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris has been given 1.7bn for 2019 to deal with whatever scenario unfolds.

Simon Coveney and his team have been engaged in contingency planning over a wide range of issues. If we are in a no-deal scenario, then we will have to have a no-deal deal. This is not something that will happen on midnight of March 29, without contingency planning from a garda perspective. That will not arise, he said.

Fianna Fails Jim OCallaghan called on Mr Flanagan to set out the Governments plans in the event of no deal.

In the possibility of a no-deal, there is a hard border in Ireland. No-one wants it, but there are going to be customs checks and if there are customs checks, there is going to be smuggling, and if there is smuggling, there has to be policing. We need to hear the Governments contingency plan for a hard border. It is a serious possibility.We need a plan, he said.

Meanwhile, former US secretary of state John Kerry said it is imperative to resolve Brexit in a way that does not reignite the Troubles. Mr Kerry made his comments during an event in the United States to mark the 20th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

He told the BBCs Sunday Politics programme that a hard border between Northern Ireland and Ireland could re-heat passions.The Association of Catholic Priests (APC) has written an open letter to the bishops, urging them to convene a national assembly to address the crisis facing Catholicism in Ireland and to consider reforms.

Stressing what we cant afford to do is do nothing, the APC, which represents 1,000 priests, says it is clear to everyone, now, that we are at crisis point, entering a post-Catholic Ireland.

In the open letter, posted on its website, the association says it believes the key question is: will the Catholic Church become a culturally irrelevant minority, or can it take the road of renewal and reform that Pope Francis is pointing out, with space for open debate and consultation?

Will we take this path of synodality, which, he writes, God expects of the Church in the third millennium. In these critical times, we cannot afford to turn a deaf ear to the plea of Pope Francis.

The organisation says the downward momentum is obvious and requires an immediate focus of resources and personnel on fundamental issues, as well as a level of seriousness that demands more than a formal ticking of a box.

The letter, written by Fr Brendan Hoban, on behalf of the APC leadership, emphasises: Unless we are prepared, as a Church, to face up to the compelling need to make difficult decisions, using the synodal approach Pope Francis employs and recommends, then we will have missed the tide of the present moment, and our Church will become more and more peripheral in the lives of more and more Catholics and less and less credible in our society.

The association urges the bishops to convene a national assembly to discuss the reform and renewal of the Catholic Church in Ireland, adding that all groups should be represented, included the disaffected and the young.

In preparation for such a national event, individual dioceses could convene diocesan and parish assemblies. This is not a time for wringing our hands in frustration or sitting on our hands in despair.

Since his election, Pope Francis has been championing synodal governance for the Church. He has revived the World Synod of Bishops and wants to move power out of Rome to national and regional bishops conferences. Thats one reason why he is being so strongly opposed at high levels in the Vatican.

A national assembly or synod, would be the ecclesiastical equivalent of a citizens assembly, though on a larger and more representative scale. The bishops may fear what it might recommend.

In an article in the current issue of The Furrow, written after the papal visit, and entitled What Now?, Fr Patrick Hannon, emeritus professor of moral theology at Maynooth, says the visit, in all its variegated light and shadow, was a kairos.

He goes on to say, perhaps we should think of our time, the time in which we live, the infancy of a millennium, as the Kairos.

Kairos is a Greek word, meaning the right, critical, or opportune moment.By Ann O'Loughlin

The Supreme Court is hearing an appeal by a former prisoner with important implications for up to 1,000 cases concerning slopping out in prisons.

Gary Simpson was subject during eight months imprisonment in Mountjoy Prison in 2013 to conditions that were disgusting, brutish, inhuman and degrading and is entitled to damages over that, his lawyers maintain.

The State has not appealed the High Court finding those conditions breached Mr Simpsons right to privacy and dignity, his counsel Michael P. OHiggins SC noted.

The High Court erred in failing to also find those conditions breached Mr Simpsons right not to be subject to inhuman and degrading treatment, he argued.

This was particularly so because Mr Simpson was under protection, doubled up with another prisoner in a single cell with no in-cell sanitation and on 23-hour lock-up, he said.

Mr Simpson has an unenumerated constitutional right to be protected from inhuman and degrading treatment but he was exposed to treatment involving hardship that exceeded the level of unavoidable suffering inherent in detention, he said.

This was all foreseeable in light of various reports, including of the United Nations Committee Against Torture, criticising the slopping out regime, he argued.

While acknowledging the progress made towards eliminating slopping out, he said good intentions do not alter the fact his clients rights were breached.

The numbers slopping out now are estimated at about 1.3% of the prison population, down from 24.8% in 2012.

Mr OHiggins said Mr Simpson was in 2013 a vulnerable prisoner detained in a cell, the total size of which was 8.43 square metres, with no access to education, training or work.

The court should imagine a situation where two adult males are locked up 23 hours daily in a space equivalent to a bedroom in a small suburban house with no toilet, sink or running water, he said.

Mr Simpson had also, over at least 11 days, shared the cell with two other prisoners. Because prison records are missing over some 20 days, it was difficult to establish exactly how many days that situation continued.

Each prisoner had a bucket and basin but none had a privacy screen and the High Court was critical of the absence of any commode type structure in the cell, he noted.

Mr Simpson had to go to the toilet in front of his cellmate(s) while they had to go to the toilet in front of him. The High Court had found the fact prisoners also had to eat in the same cell was undignified.

Each prisoner had to take his chamber pot from the cell and slop it out into a slop hopper in communal toilets on the landing which could be sometimes blocked. Some prisoners also dumped the contents into the communal sinks.

Mr Simpson suffered distress about these conditions but it was accepted there was no evidence his physical health suffered, counsel added.

The appeal is being heard by a five-judge court because it raises important legal issues concerning what criteria apply for determining whether or not the treatment of a prisoner is inhuman and degrading and whether damages need always be awarded for breach of constitutional rights.

The High Court's Mr Justice Michael White had found slopping out breached Mr Simpson's constitutional right to privacy and dignity but not his right not to be subject to inhuman and degrading treatment. Those findings were made in the context of the particular circumstances of Mr Simpsons imprisonment.

Mr Justice White refused to award damages for the breach of the right to privacy/dignity because of his finding some of Mr Simpsons evidence concerning his treatment was untruthful or grossly exaggerated.

He also refused Mr Simpson the legal costs, estimated at more than 1m, of the case against the State but declined to order him to pay the State's costs due to criticism of several matters, including limited access to showers for prisoners on 23-hour lock-up.

The State is not disputing the finding that slopping out, on the facts of Mr Simpson's case, breached his constitutional right to privacy/dignity.

It wants the Supreme Court to address whether damages must be paid for breach of constitutional rights or whether declarations may be more appropriate in some cases.

About 1,000 other slopping out cases remain on hold until Mr Simpson's appeal is decided.A group of Fine Gael Junior Ministers are asking for the State to pay their hotel bills when the Dail is sitting, claiming Dublin is too expensive.

At least eight ministers have complained to the Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe that their expenses do not factor in midweek stays in the capital.Health services will come under severe pressure next month, Health Minister Simon Harris has admitted.

Mr Harris said it was inevitable that the health service would have a really busy time in January.

I will be chairing a meeting with the HSE, and hospital group managers, on December 28, and another one on December 31, to make sure that everything that possibly can be done is done, he said.

But I am not going to lie to people; I am not going to suggest that January is not going to be a very busy period. It absolutely is.

He urged the public to help ease the pressure on hospital emergency departments by using other health services.

Mr Harris said there was a significant surge in hospital activity in the early days of January.

It was a cycle that the health service had been in for many years.

However, he acknowledged that there were too many admitted patients waiting on trolleys for a hospital bed.

The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation said last month was the worst-ever November for hospital overcrowding.

Last week, the number of admitted patients forced to wait on trolleys and chairs, for beds, exceeded 100,000 for the first time.

Mr Harris said there were serious challenges facing the health services.

Too many people wait on trolleys; 100,000 is an awful lot and far, far too many, he said in an interview on Newstalk radio yesterday.

INMO general secretary, Phil Ni Sheaghdha, said 2018 was already the worst year on record for patients on trolleys and there were still several weeks to go.

January and February are typically the worst months, so nurses and midwives will be looking to the new year with a sense of dread, she said.

According to the INMO, the number of patients forced to wait on trolleys and on chairs, for beds, last month, was up 11% on November 2017.

University Hospital Limerick had 1,071 patients on trolleys last month, twice Limericks bed capacity.

This is the 18th month in a row that Limerick has had the most overcrowding, said Ms Ni Sheaghdha.

The union claims that much of the overcrowding is down to understaffing, caused primarily by low pay.

The HSEs census shows that, last September, the health service had 227 fewer staff nurses than in December 2017.

Ms Ni Sheaghdha said that in August, they warned the HSE that the trolley count would reach 100,000 before the year-end.

We are disappointed that measures have not been put in place to realistically deal with trolley counts that are just out of control at this point, she said.

A patient advocacy group has expressed concern that hospital overcrowding, as well as causing stress to patients and staff, exposes patients to avoidable risks.

Stephen McMahon, from the Irish Patients Association, said hospital overcrowding also had a knock-on effect on outpatient appointments and planned elective surgeries.

There is no, one simple solution to the current, dangerous situation, but that should not deter the decision-makers from solving the problem and solving it urgently, said Mr McMahon.

Mr Harris said he was trying to break the cycle of hospital overcrowding and that hospitals were increasingly operating at, or above, capacity.

But, he said, people must realise that there were not enough hospital beds in Ireland.

The Government is committed to addressing the capacity issue, with 240 beds opened this year and another 79 due to come on stream in the coming weeks.

He said the HSE would announce the opening of further beds this week, for the winter.

Mr Harris said that 550 more home-care packages to help move older people in and out of hospital more quickly had just been sanctioned.

The opening hours of primary care centres and minor injuries units would also be extended.

It is important that we keep hospital EDs for emergencies, he said.

Also, diagnostic services would open longer over the Christmas period, so hospital stays would be kept to a minimum.

Hospitals worst hit by overcrowding during November:

1: University Hospital Limerick: 1,071.

2: Cork University Hospital: 932.

3: University Hospital Galway: 676.

4: Letterkenny University hospital, Co Donegal: 581.

5: Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin: 559.

6: Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore, Co Offaly: 549.

7: Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin: 436.Three men are due to appear in court this morning after a drugs seizure in Dublin.

The discovery worth 90,000 was made in Ballymun.Tusla has defended its adoption of a new model of practice designed to reduce the number of children in care. A review in the UK has found little to no evidence that the practice was effective at reducing the need for children to be in care.

Signs of Safety, which originated in Australia, was rolled out last year and is a central plank in the Child and Family Agencys 2017-2022 Child Protection and Welfare Strategy.

It proposes working with families to manage risk, rather than swiftly removing the child. The aim is to cut the number of children going into care and allow social workers more time to work with families and children.

Signs Of Safety has been adopted in more than a dozen countries, but earlier this month a review of the programme by the UK-based What Works Centre for Childrens Social Care found little to no evidence to suggest that Signs of Safety is effective at reducing the need for children to be in care.

The review found: This reflects a limited evidence base, with few studies and none of a high quality for drawing conclusions about the impact of Signs of Safety on this outcome. Lack of evidence is not the same as evidence that Signs of Safety does not work to reduce care. Nor does it establish that Signs of Safety does not have other possible positive outcomes.

The review also found no evidence of sufficient quality to analyse for cost-effectiveness, but said the model can lead to positive engagement with parents, children, wider family and external agencies, and required a whole organisational change to create a culture that supports social workers to practice with families.

A Child and Family Agency spokesperson said Tusla was aware of the review. The agency has trained over 1,800 staff in this approach to ensure it is embedded into everyday practice and we have received excellent feedback from staff around the country, on the positive difference the approach is making to children and families, and social work staff.

There is certainly work to be done on building on the existing research base in this area and to expand on research questions to ensure appropriate context and that it is relevant in an Irish context.Urgent action is needed if Government plans to hold a vote on directly-elected mayors in Cork, Galway, Limerick, and Waterford are to go ahead, a confidential Cabinet memo states.

The memo, seen by the Irish Examiner, also reveals that Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy has been criticised by Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe for repeatedly failing to bring forward costings to allow the plebiscites to go ahead.

It is planned that the votes in those cities would go ahead on the same day as the local and European elections in May. However, the memo warns: Urgent enactment of the bill is required to facilitate the implementation of the boundary alteration for the purposes of the election of a new Cork City and County Council at the end of May 2019.

It states: The timeframe for production of the local electoral registers means the bill will need to be enacted and commenced in sufficient time to enable the local electors in the transferring area to be included in the register for Cork City Council before publication date of February 1.

The memo states it is proposed to add as a new part in the Local Government Bill provision for the holding of plebiscites in Cork City, Galway, Limerick, and Waterford on a proposal to provide by law for a directly- elected mayor of those areas.

However, the memo includes concerns from both Attorney General Seamus Woulfe and Mr Donohoe.

The Attorney General notes that that the policy and decision-making in respect of the powers which a directly elected mayor may have and his or her relationship with the elected members were not included in the memo and therefore due to circumstances outside of our control the time for examining this memo and its proposals has been relatively short.

The finance minister complains the memo does not quantify the costs involved with the proposal.

The minister for finance restates therefore that before Government approval for a decision point in a memorandum is sought, as full a cost analysis as possible must be conducted. This also applies where approval in principle is sought, Mr Donohoe wrote.

Therefore in the absence of a cost analysis, the minister of finance is of the opinion that any Government approval given to the decision points in this memorandum should not be taken as approval for any related expenditure.

Mr Donohoe warned that any costs identified must be met from within existing resources. The minister reiterates that request now and asks that the department undertake a full cost analysis of the proposal.BEIRUT - The Syrian government has accused the US-led anti-ISIS coalition of hitting Syrian government forces in central Syria with a missile attack, according to Syrian state news agency SANA.

SANA did not specify the extent of the attack but said military positions were hit in Al-Sukhnah, east of Homs between Palmyra and the Euphrates.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) said 15 missiles were launched at a Syrian Army base in the region of Homs from the US-led coalition's Al-Tanf base, operated by US and British forces and located at the border between Syria, Jordan, and Iraq.

The missiles were launched at a military convoy of Syrian government and loyalist forces, possibly Iranian, SOHR said.

The report cannot be independently verified on the ground.

Armed clashes and attacks have taken place in the past in central Syria and near the Al-Tanf base between pro-Syrian and Iranian forces against Syrian militants recruited by the US and its allies into their anti-ISIS coalition.

The migrant experience for the displaced can be alienating but a newly published anthology of poetry, prose and photography by the new Corkonians ensures that their voices and impressions of Cork city are expressed.

A Journey Called Home: Poems and Stories of the new Corkonians is a Cork City Libraries initiative in association with O Bheal, as part of the Creative Ireland Programme. It is edited by Paul Casey, who runs O Bheal, a weekly poetry event at the Long Valley. With six languages under his belt and considerable experience as a migrant in several countries, Casey really was the right man for the job.

When he was asked to put the book together, Casey didnt fully realise how big a task it would turn out to be. The anthology of over 400 pages is made up of immigrants writing in their own language, accompanied by translations into English as well as 30 images from three Cork-based photographers.

Casey says that Cork is largely a safe harbour for migrants.

Most of our immigrant communities are welcomed here. Cork is an artists city and a university city which is very much integrated. Theres a shared pride in the city.

Casey hopes that the anthology will contribute to Corks bid for the status of City of Sanctuary.

When Casey started working on the book, his first port of call were the various language departments at UCC. He also contacted Direct Provision centres. And from his role at O Bheal over the past 12 years, he has a large database of poets, including non-Irish poets. Also, the library printed a couple of thousand flyers about the project.

Altogether, Casey contacted 750 people, asking to be directed to migrants that might be interested in writing for the book.

The response was overwhelming, he says.

The end result is an anthology made up of 62 contributors in 20 languages. A lot of work came in from the language schools. There was nothing of any great quality from them that could have gone into the book so I had to send back some carefully-worded rejections. But for the most part, the majority of people who sent in work were accepted. The quality was good.

Most of the non-English speaking contributors wrote initially in their own language and then a kind of translation was created. The library and myself had to source individuals who could help the writers with the translations and help individuals who were struggling. Sometimes, numerous drafts were sent back and forth.

The River Lee, the Shandon area, the four-faced liar clock on St Annes Church in Shandon and the Lough are some of the recurring subjects in the anthology.

As Casey says, Cork natives writing about such landmarks could be slightly cliched. But in the book, we can view them in a different way, through fresh eyes.

Of the 62 contributors to the book, at least one-third of them call themselves writers and many of them are well known in their countries of origin. Some of the other contributors are writing for the first time.

Among the established writers in the anthology are Rosalin Blue, a German writer who is well known on the local spoken-word scene. She writes in both English and German. There is also poet, Sue Cosgrave, who was born in Russia and spent her formative years in the US, Iraq and Finland.

And theres Benjamin Burns, born in England, brought up in Sligo and now living in Cork. He was the joint winner of the All-Ireland Poetry Slam in 2016. He has a poem in the anthology called Barrack Street Haiku that is a lot longer than the traditional haiku.

It includes the lines:

"Escape the house

escape the screen,

walk with me

in the pissing rain...

Obviously the work of a man whos well assimilated in his adopted city!

- A Journey Called Home: Poems and Stories of the New Corkonians, edited by Paul Casey, is published by Cork City Libraries at 20Probably the most famous visitor ever to these shores landed on St Patricks Island, Co Dublin  St Patrick himself, writes Dan MacCarthy

There are many churches, streets and public institutions that bear his name. The eponymous island is in the north of the county, offshore from the charming fishing village of Skerries. This 50m x 200m island is one of a cluster of three along with Shenick and Colt.

A fourth, Red Island, eventually became joined to the mainland. These islands are in relatively shallow water, and are within sight of the roseate tern stronghold of Rockabill which lies in much deeper water.

St Patrick founded a church on the island and a monastery was later established there by St Mochonna. Legend relates how the saint left his footprint on the nearby Colt Island.

In common with other monastic sites around the country, the monastery fell was to become victim to Viking raids and it was duly sacked in 797. Several hundred years after this, the monastery was reconstructed and had such significance that the Archbishop of Armagh, Saint Malachy, convened a synod on the island in 1148 to discuss the place of Ireland within the church.

Fast forward 1,537 years and another famous visitor to these shores, Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger, was linked with the purchase of the island. The Beatles once claimed they were more popular than Jesus, but Jagger was probably not more popular than St Patrick. Jagger was one of several celebrities linked to the purchase of the island when it was put up for sale. The actress Diana Dors was also rumoured to have been interested. Jagger declared Im not in the island-buying business. Whats more I have never heard of Mr Sugrue,  a reference to the London landlord Butty Sugrue who reportedly sold the island to Jagger for 30,000. Sugrue had intended to build a 60ft illuminated statue of St Patrick facing Britain  a sort of Statue of Liberty.

This was the height of flower power and hippy communes were being set up around the UK and Ireland. St Patricks Island somehow appealed, in spite of zero housing, zero facilities including pier, and zero protection from the elements.

However, the press was indignant. An article in the Connacht Tribune bearing the headline  Purchase of Land by Foreigners - and Hippies railed against the purchase of land by non-nationals.

It said not only could they not raise the stg20,000 but a London hippy, who apparently doesnt believe in work and therefore lives from day to day on the 1 or two he can pick up from friends or from begging, would require about 20 to physically transport himself from the British capital to the holy Irish island.

Xenophobic hysteria more suitable to 2018 than 1969.

A more sedate article listed five trustees who would put up 20,000 to buy the island  Frank Harris, the hippies leader in England; Sid Rawle, son of an Exmoor farmer; American communist and author Harvey Matusow; Indian yoga guru Swami Vishnudevananda; and US poet Allen Ginsberg.

After the trustees signed papers they said they hoped 500 squatters would set up the initial community and that they would build a society of love trust, and tolerance, not based on the values of how much money a man has made, said Harris.

On a trip to the island the guru did a headstand on the boat to the delight of the press photographers. When they landed, the Irish Press reported all that was there was flotsam and jetsam, crates, driftwood, thousands of nettles, dried up plants, and an old ruined church.

And no water, as three wells had dried up.

By late 1969 the plans had fallen apart and the Irish Independent reported that the Hippies Abandon Island Plan, mainly due to the opposition of the Skerries locals. Harris though, was determined to find a place in Ireland because it is such a beautiful country, quiet and peaceful.

The hippies would find their home eventually when John Lennon offered them refuge in his Clew Bay island of Dorinish.

Now St Patricks Island is enveloped in weeds, fishing boats come and go and its famous visitors are long forgotten.

- How to get there: Just off Skerries, Co Dublin. Enquire locally for trips.Teenager Jackie Foley was told to sign a consent form under a fictitious name in Bessborough Mother and Baby Home. Her son was adopted and given a bogus name. Nearly half a century later, her treatment at the hands of State agencies has been as cold-hearted as that of the nuns, writes Conall O Fatharta.

JACKIE Foley was just 16 years old in 1974 when she signed a consent form in Bessborough Mother and Baby Home form to have her son adopted. She didnt sign her own name.

Instead, under instruction from a nun, and in the presence of a solicitor and her mother, she was forced to write a different name  Micheline Power*  a woman who does not exist.

As a result, all of the documentation that followed in the wake of this act was deliberately falsified.

In the furore surrounding the recent discovery of 126 cases of illegal birth registrations among St Patricks Guilds records, the line pushed by the State is that all illegal registrations involved a birth being recorded in the names of the adoptive parents.

As a result, no adoption order was made and the couple would pass the child off as if born to them.

However, in the case of Jackies son, the birth was not registered in the name of his adoptive parents.

She had requested he be called Dermot Foley*.

Instead, he was given a bogus name and his birth was illegally registered as John Power*, born to Micheline Power, neither of whom exist. Both invented. Both ghosts.

An adoption order, issued by the States regulatory body, the Adoption Board, was contracted on the basis of these false identities.

Documents seen by the Irish Examiner reveal, and indeed name, individual nuns who worked at the Bessborough Mother and Baby Home and the affiliated Sacred Heart Adoption Society (SHAS) who were party to this.

It is clear from these records that the documentation required by the Adoption Board was falsified. It is unclear why this was done.

Jackies son is now 44. If he was to access his original birth certificate, he will spend years searching for his mother under the wrong name. He will be looking for Micheline Power  a woman who does not exist.

But the historic treatment of Jackie replays in the present. Almost half a century later, the attitude of certain State agencies  the Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI), and Tusla  to her case is as cold-hearted as the nuns who forced her as a 16-year-old to sign away both her and her sons identities.

Instead of offering support or offering assistance, emails between staff members show the attitude of Tusla to be one of institutional self-preservation.

Just last year, staff handling Jackies case were instructed in emails not to refer to situations like hers as illegal but instead as possible illegal registrations. Reference is made to having to hold our powder because that stuff is FOIable... and it could be used against us if someone takes a case.

Staff are told that the AAI are the only ones that can make a determination as to the legality or illegality of any adoption.

Remarkably, a principal social worker with the AAI wrote to Tusla in February 2017 stating categorically that in the case of Jackies son, the adoption is a legal adoption.

Given that the entire tranche of legal documents used to secure the adoption relies on the false name of a woman and child, and that the AAI has known that fact for over a decade, this is an astonishing position for an employee of the States regulatory body to take.

The DCYA said in May that discoveries by Tusla in the St Patricks Guild records represent the first time this threshold of a high level of certainty has been reached in terms of evidence relating to illegal registrations.

However, Jackies case is one of the most egregious examples of an illegal registration resulting in an unlawful adoption. It is fully documented and the AAIs predecessor, the Adoption Board, was notified as early as 2005.

Neither agency reported the case to the gardai, not in 2005 when first notified, and at no point since. As a result, Jackie herself reported the details of what happened to the gardai earlier this year.

Ten years later, Jackies case was forced onto the AAI and Tuslas radar when she sought access to her records in 2015. Again, no one in either agency reported the matter to gardai.

In fact, Tusla would not even release to Jackie the first name of her son  despite the fact that it was aware that the nuns had already provided her with that detail.

The details of this case  what happened in the past, and the States response in the present  begs the question: Has the attitude of official Ireland to women who were forced to give their children up for adoption changed over the past half century?

Instead of seeking to right a wrong, to privilege and protect the human rights of the individual citizen, the primary concern of the State agencies involved has been to insulate themselves from blame, to never admit liability, to delay access to records and information, and all in case a victim attempts to take legal action.

Where women like Jackie were once ignored, now they are feared.

Jackies baby boy

Jackie was just 15 in 1974 when she fell pregnant. Little more than a child herself, she had no idea that she was pregnant or what it entailed.

Unsurprisingly, her family was not happy and it was quickly decided that the pregnancy would be concealed and an adoption arranged. Her aunt was the central figure in making sure Jackie was taken to Bessborough and her son put up for adoption.

I got pregnant. I knew very little about the whole mechanics of it. I had an idea but I didnt know all of it and how you could end up, very fast, being pregnant. I didnt know I was pregnant.

I didnt feel anything different or strange but I was obviously getting bigger and my mother said to me one day, early in May, she said: Are you pregnant? And I said: I dont know. She became quite distraught but I begged her not to tell my father.

The next thing was there was a phonecall made and my aunt was brought on the scene and I then was brought to a doctor in a very small street in Cork where I was put through an extreme examination confirming that I was pregnant.

Then the following day, late in the night, I was then brought in a car. I wasnt really told where I was going. I was just told that I was being taken off, that I would probably end up going to a hospital and that I would have to wear glasses and a wig and I was not to say my name.

No one explained to Jackie where she was going or what was going to happen to her and her unborn child.

Under the cover of darkness, she was driven up that long, winding drive that leads to the front door of the imposing building that housed the Bessborough Mother and Baby Home.

It hasnt changed much since Jackie was there as a frightened teenager.

I arrived outside the door. There are a few steps up. I was 15 years of age. A nun opened the door. There was a room to the left and a room to the right and, to the best of my memory, I was brought into the room on the right.

I was told to stand in there while my aunt spoke to the nun in the hall. I crouched in behind the door because I didnt know where I was or what was happening. I am not religious but I did pray. I was absolutely terrified. You know how you can shake from fear? Well, that was going on inside of me. My breath was shaking.

I was afraid to look around and I had nearly a dowagers hump rolling on myself because I was so afraid. I just didnt know what was going to happen to me. I just remember praying that whatever was going to happen that it would be soon. I didnt know when I was due, nothing like that.

From that point on, she was alone. When Jackie emerged, her aunt was gone. A nun took her to another room where a group of other women was sleeping. She was given the house name Joan* and told not to speak to anyone or mix with anyone.

However, Jackie was asked for her correct name and address. Given what was to happen later, the fact that a note was taken of her true identity meant the unlawful nature of her sons adoption could be uncovered years later.

Jackie was only in Bessborough for five days but she remembers it in almost minute-by-minute detail.

She went into labour in the early hours of the second night of her stay. Her son was born the following day.

She never saw her babys face. She tried, but was physically restrained.

Kindness was in short supply. She begged to be told the sex of her child and, in hushed tones, one nun let it slip to her that she had had a baby boy.

When I was giving birth, I tried to sit up to see and there was definitely a nun, maybe two. I actually think there were nurses probably on either side. One put their hand across my chest one way and the other put their hand across my chest the other way and they held me down. That was it. I never saw the baby. I tried again to sit up and I saw two little feet moving. Thats all I saw.

Two days later, Jackie was instructed to put on the same clothes she had arrived in, and was sent home. Her son stayed in Bessborough for just six hours.

The records reveal his fate after birth: Foster care 6 hours after delivery, awaiting adoption.

Another states: Baby  Sent to Mrs Green on same day of delivery.

Jackie has been searching for her son ever since.

Bogus identity

Jackie was brought back to Bessborough some five months later to sign a consent form to allow her son to be adopted.

This is where things begin to take a more sinister and illegal turn.

In short, Jackie was told to sign a false name on the consent form  and all of the paperwork, including her sons birth certificate, was subsequently falsified in this name.

It remains unclear as to why a bogus identity was constructed in the paperwork. Was this a service  one which effectively obliterated Jackies identity and that of her son from official memory  one offered by the nuns as an extra layer of secrecy?

The Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary declined to answer questions on Jackies case but said it rejected any suggestion of impropriety by any of our sisters, some of whom are still alive, in regard to adoptions in Bessborough in 1974 or at any other time.

The order said that it was dealing directly with the Mother and Baby Homes Commission on all related matters and urged anyone with information about mother and baby homes to pass it on to the commission immediately.

Jackies memory is crystal clear. Although members of her family were present when she signed the consent form, the instruction to sign the name Micheline Power instead of her own name did not come from them.

Rather, it came from those working on behalf of the SHAS at Bessborough. Jackie had never heard the name. Her mother had to spell it out for her as she signed it on the consent form.

I went in that same door and I went in that same room as I did on the first day. There was a man sitting behind a desk. There was my mother to my right and there was a nun and if I am not mistaken, another nun. A piece of paper was put forward and I was told to sign it. I looked and I didnt know what it was.



I was then told to sign it in the name Micheline Power. That instruction didnt come from where my family were standing. I had never come across the name before and didnt know how to spell it, so I looked to my mother for assistance and she spelled it out for me. I just signed the form in the name Micheline Power.

The Irish Examiner has seen this consent form and it is clearly signed in a false name. It is also dated in May  just four days after the birth of her son. However, Jackies admission records show she was not present in Bessborough on that date.

In fact, she did not sign the consent form until the following October. The witness to the signing of this bogus name was a nun from Bessborough.

As for the consent being free and informed, Jackie points out that no one explained anything to her. She was so frightened, her overriding memory is trying to stop herself from visibly shaking.

"I was terrified. I remember my behind twitching and sticking my knees together to stop my ass twitching. And that was it. I was put into the car and brought home. I dont remember anyone saying to me: Youre signing a baby away. You are never going to see your baby again. Nobody ever explained anything to me.

The Supreme Court judgment in G v An Bord Uchtala is a key ruling on what constitutes a valid consent. It states that a consent motivated by fear, stress or anxiety...does not constitute a valid consent.

A record from September 1974 entitled Particulars Concerning Child is signed by a named nun of the Sacred Heart Convent, Blackrock, Cork.

Known as a Form 2 document, along with the consent form, it is a link in the chain of paperwork to be furnished by an adoption society to the Adoption Board to contract a legal adoption order. It is supposed to detail the correct names of both the natural mother and her child. However, in Jackies case, it is made out in the false names.

The furnishing of false information to the Adoption Board was a criminal offence under Section 43 of the Adoption Act 1953, punishable on conviction by one year in prison or a fine not exceeding 100, or both.

Remarkably, the entire falsification of the documents is fully detailed in the original records which Jackie has obtained over the years.

A contemporaneous handwritten note taken from her records shows an instruction to falsify the birth register in a false name  a criminal offence. It simply states: Please register Baby John Power.

Another document from 1974, outlining details of Jackies labour, contains the following entry: I wasnt given any information re this baby  Mothers name was changed -? reason.

The handwritten document confirms both Jackies and her sons names were registered in different names, and it is signed by a named nun.

A medical record from St Finbarrs Hospital Departmental of Haemotology also contain results for Jackies bloods in the false name.

An internal tracing document prepared by staff in Bessborough in 1994, upon a request for information from Jackies son, also clearly acknowledges that names were changed in the records.

The document states that a named nun is looking after this but asterisked at the bottom of the page is: Reg & baptized (sic) in wrong name  NB not Power. I wrote details out for Sr.

The records reveal that Jackies sons baptism certificate was also falsified. This certificate came from the Church of the Descent of the Holy Ghost [now Spirit] in Dennehys Cross in Cork City in June 1974.

The endpoint for this paper trail is the falsified birth certificate  an illegal birth registration. The informant listed on the birth certificate is a named nun of the Sacred Heart Hospital at Bessborough.

It is unclear why all of this was done. However, it is clear from another record that Jackies family had paid money to the nuns to give to Jackies son on more than one occasion. A handwritten, undated document released to Jackie shows that one of her relatives went to Bessborough on more than one occasion and that this person wanted to leave him [Jackies son] money.

On one occasion when Sr (name withheld) was in tea room preparing for Sale of Work, she handed an envelope with some money for Bazaar. She did not know how much she just handed it on to the people counting the (sic) coming in for the Bazaar. No words were exchanged.



On recall one of her visits was to accuse her of mis-leading her into thinking the child was placed in Dublin. Sister believes that was because the B Cert was issued in Dublin.

The birth cert was, in fact, issued in Cork. However, the above suggests that money was paid by Jackies family to the nuns on more than one occasion since 1974 with the instruction for it to be sent to her son.

Jackie didnt set foot in Bessborough for another 30 years, when she visited the agency in person in 2004, looking to start tracing her son. By then, Jackie had married and had further children. Her son had previously made an inquiry about finding her in 1994.

She received a call back from a nun, who told her no boy was born in Bessborough on the date of birth she had supplied for her son, or indeed on any day that week.

A short time after visiting Bessborough, Jackie received another call to tell her that a nun from the agency  Sr Sarto  had been to visit her home town and was trying to contact her. She eventually received a call from the nun.

Jackie describes the meeting as not a cordial one, but that she was told she could write to her son through the agency. So, she sent a letter and received a lovely response from her son. She sent another letter but heard nothing back.

Jackie had issued an instruction to the agency, enclosed with this first letter to her son. It was to request that it not give her son any information about her because she wanted to do that herself. She also gave permission for him to write letters to her through SHAS.

Material released to Jackie many years later show her son signed a typed document prepared by the SHAS which stated: I understand that Sr Sarto has been instructed by my birth mother not to give me any information.

By this point, Jackie decided that she would find her son herself. She didnt need or want any help from the nuns.

In 2005, she had obtained her sons birth certificate after contacting the Eastern Health Board. There, in black and white, on an official State document, the fraud was revealed.

Armed with this evidence, she called the Adoption Board in 2005 and informed them of her sons unlawful adoption. She was told it would look into it.

However, the regulatory body never reported the illegal birth registration. No one was held accountable. SHAS continued to be an accredited adoption agency for another seven years until it voluntarily decided to close and transfer its records to the HSE in 2011.

And there it lay. Jackie was left waiting, like countless other women. Like Tressa Reeves, whose case was settled in the High Court in July, Jackie received no help.

She had had to drag every piece of information she could from the nuns. Now she had to do it from the State body that held the SHAS records  Tusla.

By 2015, it was well aware of Jackies case. It had not gone unnoticed and, clearly, Tusla was concerned about the contents of her file.

Months passed with no progress. Jackie was told her file contained anomalies. She got some records, but not her antenatal records.

After another phone call telling her how busy they were, Jackie had had enough.

I said to her: Its like this now. I have had enough of you. I know my antenatal records are there because Sr Sarto read them out to me. And now, you are telling me they are not there. I know they are there and that you have them. I want them. They are my property.

Shortly after the call, Jackie received another 56 pages in the post. Unwilling to go away, she got what was hers.

However, frustrated by the lack of progress in arranging a meeting with her son, Jackie stopped engaging with Tusla. Tired of pleasantries and social workers whispering to her about the elephant in the room  the issue of false names, she had had enough.

However, privately, Tusla and the AAI had quite a lot to say about Jackie.

Jackies case had initially been flagged in August 2015 by a Tusla FOI officer who wrote to a senior social worker about her concerns about the case.

The significance of this is evident in the fact that the childs birth registration form is recorded under the fictitious (sic) names, and worryingly, the adoption documents including consent to adoption were filed with the Adoption Authority under the false names.

I should think that this renders the adoption illegal. I trust you will report this information along to the Commission of Investigation [into Mother and Baby Homes] or whomever you feel is the appropriate body, states the email.

Tusla sought and received records from the AAI relating to Jackies sons adoption, in August 2015. The letter sent by the AAI to Tusla confirms that the false name Jackie was instructed to sign on the consent is also that on the adoption order.

Emails between Tuslas national manager for adoption, Siobhan Mugan, and other Tusla staff, show Jackies case was still being discussed and recorded on a register of illegal and suspected illegal adoptions over a year later.

On September 19, 2016, a principal social worker emailed Ms Mugan under the subject title: illegal adoptions, stating that a case had come to her attention that might imply an illegal adoption.

I know that you asked to be made aware of all such cases. Can you let me know what you would like me to send you in the way of information, states the email.

Ms Mugan forwarded the email to another staff member, asking her to get the details of this for our register.

This staff member then emailed the principal social worker: Could you please complete the attached register. If there are any further details, please add them to the notes part of the register.

Curiously, Tusla has always denied it kept a register of illegal adoptions. In May 2017, the Irish Examiner asked Tusla if it held a register or database where adoption cases that raised concerns are noted. It stated: No, there is no database or register held.

The Irish Examiner asked Tusla a series of questions on the above register  including why its existence has been denied.

It stated that it does not hold a register of suspected illegal/irregular adoptions but that, in mid to late 2016, it did consider tracking anomalies/issues of concern as they were notified to the national manager for adoption to ensure procedures were being followed.

This was trialled for a short period but was discontinued. Tusla does not have a legal basis to collate this information. Tuslas only formal basis for processing this data is for the purposes of providing an information and tracing service to applicants, said a statement.

Tusla also indicated it would no longer be making any further comment on the issue of incorrect registrations of birth.

Just one day after noting Jackies case in its register, the attitude of Tusla to releasing information to natural mothers desperately seeking information was also laid bare. Its policy was to be even more restrictive than the religious orders that once held the files.

On September 20, 2016, the FOI officer dealing with Jackies case emailed a senior social worker, questioning the Tusla policy not to release first names of natural mothers or children to those tracing. This information was non- identifying and was routinely released by the religious orders. Indeed, Jackie had already been given her sons name by the nuns.

Given that Jackie already had these details, the FOI officer said it seemed pedantic (and cruel) to censor this detail especially since she has already been given it previously.

Two days later, the senior social worker responded. It was blunt and to the point. This information was to be redacted.

I was in Brunel again yesterday where this direction was reiterated, we are not to confirm info. That applicant may already have relating to identifying information like name etc..., states the email.

By February 2017, direct instructions were coming from senior management to staff members dealing with Jackies case, instructing them to stop referring to her case as an illegal adoption but to instead reference it as a possible illegal registration.

One email to the FOI officer from the senior social worker states that she has been told to ask you to refer to this matter and all such matters as possible illegal registrations for recording purposes.

The following day, February 21, 2017, the FOI officer responded, stating that the preference for the use of the terms illegal registrations vs illegal adoptions, noted.

In a later response, the FOI officer refers to the choice of language requested as political correctness.

However, the response from the principal social worker reveals that Tuslas concern was that of protecting itself against any potential legal action.

I think the concern is in fairness that stuff is FOIable...and it could be used against us if someone takes a case... the AAI [Adoption Authority of Ireland] are only ones to determine if registration is illegal or not so we hold our powder, thats the thinking anyway so..., states the email.

Remarkably, on the very same day, the principal social worker at the AAI emailed Tusla and insisted that Jackies case was not an example of an illegal registration, nor was her sons adoption illegal.

This is not an illegal registration as an illegal registration is where a couple use their names on an original birth cert for a baby that is not born to them.

The email confirms that the mother was falsely named on the original papers, but the adoption is a legal adoption and not an illegal registration.

The AAI also confirmed that Jackie had told the AAIs predecessor, the Adoption Board, of her case as far back as 2005, confirming the use of a false name at the time. It would appear that neither the Adoption Board nor the AAI reported the matter as a criminal offence in the intervening period.

In a statement, Tusla said it does not comment on individual cases but if issues of concern arise in the processing of adoption information and tracing requests, they report them to the necessary authority  the AAI, a child protection team/retrospective abuse teams or An Garda Siochana.

Tusla also said that national manager for adoption Ms Mugan asked staff to use appropriate language in relation to cases of concern.

In relation to cases where there may be a possible incorrect birth registration, we have consistently referred to these situations as possible incorrect birth registrations, as no adoption took place and therefore they should not be referred to as an illegal adoption.

The use of appropriate language also assists in ensuring consistency and clarity for staff while communicating with members of the public on these sensitive matters, said a statement.

The Irish Examiner asked the AAI a series of questions, including if the opinion expressed to Tusla by its principal social worker was the formal legal opinion of the authority.

It said it could not comment on individual cases but that in this case that no request for a formal review by the board or complaint has been received by the authority from the individual in question.

Where a specific request for a review or complaint is made to the board and where there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate irregular or illegal adoption practices, including meeting with and talking to the complainant, the board, having considered the matter, will refer the complaint to the gardai or other third party, as it has done in other cases, said a statement.

So despite Jackie having contacted the Adoption Board in 2005 and the AAI itself providing records to Tusla confirming what happened in Jackies case in 2015, the attitude of the regulatory body seems to be that it is up to the victim to ensure it carries out an investigation into irregularities.

Informing it via a direct phone call wasnt enough  she should have ensured the Board of the AAI was directly informed.

The onus is on the victim and not the regulatory body to ensure something is done.

The Department of Children and Youth Affairs has stated on the record that where it has proof of an illegal birth registration, the State has a duty to inform the individuals concerned.

The State has been aware of what happened to Jackies son since 2005.

When can he expect a knock on his door?

* These names have been changed to protect the identities of those involved

Mum told to sign false name on adoption consent form

Jackie Foley was just 15 years old in 1974 when she gave birth to a baby boy in Bessborough Mother and Baby Home.

She returned to Bessborough five months later to sign a consent form allowing for her child to be adopted through the affiliated Sacred Heart Adoption Society (SHAS)

Jackie was told to sign a false name on the consent form  thereby beginning a process where both her identity and that of her son are obliterated from the official record. The consent form is signed by a named nun.

Her sons birth was subsequently illegally registered under this false name. The informant on the birth certificate is a named nun from Bessborough.

The formal adoption order is also contracted using the false names  Jackieinformed the Adoption Board about the falsification and illegal registration of her sons birth in 2005.

Tusla became aware of Jackies case in 2015 with a social worker stating inSeptember 2016 that it might imply anillegal adoption. The details were lateradded to a register held by Tusla at the time where it recorded adoption cases which raised concerns.

In February 2017, instructions were issued via email to a Tusla staff member dealing with Jackies case to refer to it and others like it as possible illegal registrations

A later email from the staff member indicates that the language choice was because of the concern that stuff is FOIable...and it could be used against us if someone takes a case..the AAI [Adoption Authority of Ireland] are only ones to determine if registration is illegal or not so we hold out powder, thats the thinking anyway so.

In February 2017 the principal social worker at the AAI emailed Tusla stating that Jackies case was not an illegal registration and that the adoption is a legal adoption and not an illegal registration.Farmers, for over 50 years, have been using bird pest control measures but no specific national legislation exists in relation to noise containment for instruments such as crow bangers or 'crop bangers', writes Anne Lucey.

THE Department of Environment and local authorities confirmed they regularly receive complaints in relation to instruments such as crow bangers or 'crop bangers', particularly in rural areas.

County councils, in particular, have availed of EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) legislation to caution some farmers with the threat of noise pollution.

However, most local authorities are not prepared to pursue the matter through the courts and, at times, it is left to an individual to initiatve an action in the district court.

In Kerry, County Hall in Tralee confirmed 13 complaints had been recorded, specifically over 'crow bangers' in the period 2013-2017.

Overall, the council had received 112 public complaints relating to noise pollution within that period, ranging from loud music, burglar alarms, and construction-related noise.

This year, there were two complaints recorded by the council over bird scarers' use.

It is worth noting that apart from the option of making a complaint to a local authority, the public has direct recourse to the district court under the EPA Act to abate noise nuisance, the council spokesman said.

In the Kerry manslaughter case in which Mr Anthony O'Mahony died, a Garda expert witness, PSV inspector Garda Jim OBrien, had conducted tests on the deceased farmer's 'crow banger' instrument which was central to the case.

Michael Ferris who was found guilty of manslaughter following the killing of Anthony O'Mahony (inset)

Garda O'Brien had testified he found the bird banger to be louder than a shotgun at close range.

But he also noted there was the additional effect of percussion from the crow banger as it pushed air in front of it.

The garda expert had worn ear muffs to test the instrument.

Frequency and positioning were other issues, the garda expert explained.

Meanwhile, prior to the Central Criminal Court trial in Tralee, earlier this year, of convicted dairy farmer Michael Ferris, the use of crop bangers had been raised in the Dail.

The matter was highlighted in May 2017 when the then minister for environment Denis Naughten, in a written reply to Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae, said any issues with crow bangers came under general noise regulation rules governed by the EPA.

There were no plans for specific legislation, at that time, the minister conceded.

The minister had also referred to the departments Guide to Noise Regulations, a four-page leaflet outlining what is open to persons complaining about noise, including the powers of a local authority.

Current legislation in the area of noise does not specifically address the use of bird scarers (also referred to as crow bangers), and I have no plans to introduce such legislation, Mr Naughten had said.

A Guide to the Noise Regulations, on the legal remedies open to a person experiencing nuisance noise.

The guide can be downloaded here

Meanwhile, Limerick City and County Council is one of the few local authorities that introduced draft guidelines on environmental control, noise-nuisance and noise-action and specifically aimed at crop bangers in rural areas.

The council was guided by a code of practice published by the National Farmer's Union (NFU) in Britain.

Inviting public submissions based on the NFU link, the council explained: A significant portion of farmland in County Limerick is used for growing crops and it is understandable that farmers take measures to deter bird infestation.

"However, it should be borne in mind that the use of scarers has the potential to cause perceived noise nuisance for the occupants of nearby dwellings.

Limerick City and County Council also recommend that farmers using such devices adhere to the NFU Code of Practice, the main points of which was to avoid causing a nuisance.Dr Mary Strangman, the first female councillor in the city, was vital in the organisation of Waterford suffrage, writes Leeann Lane.

In 1876, the Irish Womens Suffrage and Local Government Association was founded as the Dublin Suffrage Association by Anna and Thomas Haslam.

The militant Irish Womens Franchise League, established in 1908 by Hanna Sheehy-Skeffington and Margaret Cousins, also had its base in the capital.

Yet, the first suffrage society was formed in 1872 in Belfast by Isabella Tod, and suffrage organisations emerged in other areas outside Dublin as the campaign progressed.

Suffrage events in Waterford were organised under the auspices of the Irish Womens Suffrage and Local Government Association until September 1911, when a Waterford branch of the Munster Womens Franchise League (MWFL) was established following a talk by Suzanne Day, co-founder of the Cork branch.

During the early 20th Century, suffrage debates and talks in Waterford were held in diverse spaces such as the YMCA and in the Quaker meeting house.

Dr Mary Strangman, the first female doctor and first female county councillor in the city, was vital in the organisation of Waterford suffrage activities.

Dr Strangman regularly lectured at the Waterford Town Hall, exhorting her listeners to understand the manner in which society would be improved if women were granted the parliamentary suffrage.

For Strangman, the vote was not an empty symbol of equality; it was a transformative tool. She regularly discussed the manner in which the female vote would enhance rescue work in the area of prostitution and stem the tide of sexual immorality in Irish society.

At a meeting in November 1913, she was concerned to gather a party from within the MWFL to demand to be present at an impending infanticide trial. What influenced the treatment of the suffrage cause in the Waterford press and in the wider Waterford society was Redmonds political relationship with the city dating back to 1891.

This is clear from an examination of newspaper reports of suffrage activities and the diary entries of the Waterford Quaker Rosamond Jacob.

To examine the beliefs and activities of individual suffrage activists such as Jacob allows the lens to be placed beyond the leaders of the Irish campaign and outside of Dublin, the latter the traditional focus of many historians working in the area of the Irish suffrage campaign.

Jacob maintained a detailed daily diary from 1897 until her death in 1960. She recorded attendance at suffrage meetings, while throughout 1909-14, her active work on behalf of the cause involved collecting signatures in respect of various suffrage demands.

Moreover, Jacobs refusal to hide her views within her Quaker community and her willingness to debate on the issue of female suffrage at Waterford Gaelic League and Sinn Fein meetings was a form of activism by stealth. Her discussions gradually normalised, for example, the issue of the vote for women for many family friends and those within her political circle.

She noted in her diary on November 13, 1909, a heated Suffragette argument after tea and commented how Mr Orr would give women votes the way hed throw a bone to an importunate dog, and that is a good way for him to have got I think. He wouldnt have gone so far 3 years ago.

Jacob prioritised the nationalist cause over the issue of female suffrage believing, as many other female activists did in the period, that to ask for the vote from an English parliament was to legitimise the right of that assembly to make laws binding on Ireland. This was a view she expressed in a letter to the Freemans Journal on April 5, 1911. For that reason, Jacob never formally joined a suffrage society although she continued to attend meetings.

Suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst in a Polling Booth circa 1910.

She was highly critical of the fact that a number of the speakers invited onto Waterford suffrage platforms were English. In a letter in the Waterford News on October 25, she asked the MWFL why the principal speaker was invariably a foreigner  English or otherwise.

I have grown tired of hearing from a Waterford platform such phrases as Here in Great Britain, How we lost our colonies in America, This kingdom (meaning England).

In late February 1914, Suzanne Day was criticised by Jacob for not speaking more about sweated workers here and less about them in England.

Strangman was forced to remind her that the suffrage cause was conceptualised by many activists as a worldwide movement.

The Waterford press records a form of grudging surface acceptance by men of the more visible presence of women in public life in the early 20th century consequent on expanding educational opportunities and the opening up of the local government franchises.

By 1911, Irish women had received the right to sit on and vote for county councils. A year later, Waterford Corporation had two women councillors, Strangman and Lily Poole.

However, at various pressure points, the acceptance of the greater presence of women in Waterford public life was shown to be superficial. And, crucially, the violence of the suffragettes was turned back as a weapon against women who sought to leave the private sphere.

Poole, elected a month after Strangman, in February 1912 declared that now she had got in, she would do all in her power to show that a woman would be equal to a man.

This was easier said than done as a very interesting argument at a corporation meeting in August of that year signified.

In a debate over the right of a woman to apply for the position of secretary to the City Insurance Committee, the incident of the hatchet thrown into the carriage in which Redmond and Asquith were travelling in July 1912 by activists from the English militant Womens Social and Political Union made its presence felt in the chamber of the county council.

Women in the city, Cllr Hackett declared during the debate, were, unfortunately, trying to drive men out of positions by accepting a lower wage.

Hackett, who hoped that no woman in the chamber had a hatchet, stated that the men of Waterford should take up the cudgels and keep Dr Mary Strangman from getting in a woman to the position.

Women with hatchets are strenuously denounced. But Hackett, albeit probably unconsciously, employs the language and imagery of violence in an attempt to re-establish a gender hierarchy at the level of local politics and local jobs.

During the period of debate on the third Home Rule Bill of 1912, the issue of suffrage versus the nationalist cause crystallised. In 1910, a cross-party Conciliation Committee had been appointed to draft a womens suffrage bill that would find favour with all parties.

Suffragette illustration from the Irish Citizen newspaper

The following year, the new Conciliation Bill came before Parliament; 31 Irish Parliamentary Party MPs voted for the bill on its first reading, but on the second reading in 1912, not one did.

Home Rule was the priority and the actions of the Irish MPs can be explained in part in relation to fears of the fall of the government over the issue of womens suffrage.

In his Bureau of Military History witness statement, Nicholas Whittle noted that even in cases where there was a Fenian tradition among Waterford families, support was often transferred to the Irish Parliamentary Party in the early 20th Century.

The Waterford News, while willing to report on suffrage meetings, was not willing to recognise or legitimatise any attempt by suffragists, local or otherwise, to have their demands recognised by the Irish Parliamentary Party.

An examination of the local press indicates that Strangman was to the fore in organising the MWFL to press their case to government, particularly on occasions when the leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party, John Redmond, visited Waterford.

In January 1914, she called on him, as she had on so many other occasions, to receive a deputation of women from the constituency when he visited on the 25th of the month.

Women had a right, she wrote to WM Fitzgerald, head of the reception committee, to expect from Redmond some pronouncement on the subject of their enfranchisement.

In February 1913, Redmond was in Waterford to open a new bridge and the Waterford News ridiculed and denounced the attempts by two Dublin suffrage campaigners to protest his refusal to include votes for women in the 1912 Home Rule Bill, making clear the lack of support for their demonstration.

Waterfords first experience of militant suffrage display, declared the paper, was a very tame and unexciting affair indeed.

One of the women, Helen Hayes, asked Redmond when he was going to open the bridge for the women of Ireland and received, according to the paper, a hostile reception: There were cries of Suffragettes, put them out, kick em out.

According to the report, the strength of feeling for Redmond and the cause of Home Rule was sufficient to neutralise the meagre suffrage demonstration.

Waterford, in fact, saw no militant activism in pursuit of the vote. Given the context of prescribed gender roles, the Waterford News may have described heckling as militant.

This tactic, however, was a staple feature of election campaigns and political meetings throughout the 19th century; this was only militant behaviour when engaged in by women.

Indeed, in pressing Redmond in January 1914 to receive members of the MWFL, Mary Strangman was clear that Waterford suffragists would use only efforts of an orthodox and constitutional nature.

Leeann Lane, School of History and Geography, Dublin City UniversityExactly 100 years ago, in December 1918, Constance Markievicz became the first woman elected to the Westminster parliament, writes Louise Ryan

As we know, of course, she never took her seat there, but nonetheless, her election marked the end of a remarkable year.

In February 1918, women aged over 30 finally won the right to vote.

In November 1918, a bill was hurried through parliament allowing women to stand as candidates, and just one month later, a woman was finally elected at the general election.

This centenary year has also been remarkable in many ways. Commemorations of the suffrage movement have taken place throughout Ireland.

I had the pleasure of participating in some very memorable events, for example at Richmond Barracks Museum in Dublin, at the wonderful Mother Jones festival in Cork, and the West Cork Historical Festival in Skibbereen, as well as conferences in Galway and Maynooth.

Particular highlights for me included the Votail 100 events organised by the Seanad, which brought schoolchildren from across the 32 counties to debate the legacy of suffrage and gender equality in Ireland.

Of course, it was not just women in Ireland and Britain who won the vote in 1918.

Events have also taken place to mark the 100th anniversary of female enfranchisement in Poland, and I attended an event at Trinity College Dublin to discuss the links and similarities between suffrage campaigns in Poland and Ireland.

In both countries, the struggle for womens rights took place against a backdrop of wider campaigns for national sovereignty.

The events throughout this year have also provided an opportunity to celebrate the work of leading women historians whose meticulous research helped to recover the stories of Irish suffragists.

Pioneering historians such as Rosemary Cullen Owens, Margaret Ward, Cliona Murphy, Maria Luddy, and Myrtle Hill did the initial groundwork. A new generation of researchers have since taken up this important work, including Linda Connolly, Caitriona Beaumont, and Mary Clancy.

I hope that this great work will continue to younger generations so that our knowledge of Irish feminist history will grow and develop through time.

This Saturday, the year of commemorations culminates with what promises to be a great conference in University College Cork organised by Gabriel Doherty.

This conference will be of particular significance for me because my work on the Irish suffrage movement began in UCC over 20 years ago.

Suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst in a Polling Booth circa 1910.

While a student in the sociology department, I had the good fortune to discover that the entire archive of the Irish Citizen newspaper, the only suffrage newspaper produced in Ireland, was stored in the basement of the Boole Library in UCC.

This began my lifelong fascination with that amazing little newspaper. My doctoral research and later my book (Winning the Vote for Women) were based on the Irish Citizen.

While it is important to celebrate the success of this anniversary year, we should avoid complacency. Today in 2018, only 22% of TDs are women.

In the UK, 32% of MPs are women, whereas in the US, women make up just 20% of the Congress.

However, while Sweden, Finland, and Norway have made bigger strides, the countries with the largest proportion of women elected representatives are Rwanda, Cuba, Bolivia, and Mexico  all with over 50% female members of parliament.

Clearly, we still have a long way to go in Ireland but hopefully we can build on the suffragists legacy as we work towards gender equality.

Louise Ryan is professor of sociology at the University of Sheffield, and author of Winning the Vote for Women: the Irish Citizen newspaper and the suffrage movement in Ireland (Four Courts Press, 2018)

The UCC conference  A woman shall not be disqualified: Ireland and the cause of female suffrage  takes place next Saturday. The conference, which is free and open to all members of the public who wish to attend without any need to register in advance, will take place in the Boole II Lecture Theatre, and starts at 9.20am. For further information please call 021 4902783 or email g.doherty@ucc.ieUN to evacuate 50 wounded Houthis to Oman - SPA Ahead of peace talks in Sweden on Tuesday

(ANSAmed) - BEIRUT, DECEMBER 3 - The United Nations, with Saudi Arabia's consent, will evacuate about 50 wounded Houthi rebels from Yemen to Oman on Monday, ahead of peace talks scheduled in Sweden on Tuesday, according to Saudi Arabian news agency SPA.



A statement attributed to the Saudi Arabian Interior Ministry spokesman said "a UN aircraft will arrive at the Sanaa airport today and will take 50 wounded fighters to Mascate, Oman, accompanied by three Yemeni doctors and a UN doctor". In recent days Saudi Arabia, which heads the Arab anti-Houthi coalition in Yemen, said it had agreed to the evacuation of the 50 wounded as a gesture of opening towards its Yemeni counterpart ahead of the UN-sponsored peace talks.(ANSAmed).



Burma Investment Potential in Irrawaddy Region Pushed by Chief Minister

Government officials at the Irrawaddy Region Investment Fair on November 30, 2018. / Salai Thant Zin / The Irrawaddy

PATHEINIrrawaddy Regions chief minister has promised to provide his best support for investors in the region.

Speaking at the Irrawaddy Region Investment Fair held on Friday and Saturday to attract local and foreign investors, Irrawaddy Regions chief minister U Hla Moe Aung invited local and foreign investors to invest there, saying that there are a wide variety of investment opportunities in the region ranging from the deep sea port, oil refinery, oil and mineral mining, agriculture and livestock, property development and hotels and tourism.

The regional investment commission will simplify the procedures for local and foreign investors in line with the Myanmar Investment Law [in order] to boost investment in the region. In particular, we will give priority to livestock and agriculture, said the chief minister.

The investment fair was jointly organized by Japan International Cooperation Agency and the regional government and took place on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1.

Over 350 people, including potential investors from Asia and Europe, local businessmen, foreign diplomats and economists, attended the fair.

The regional government, through its investment commission, clarified potential business opportunities in the region during the fair. Since the commissions formation in July 2017, it has approved foreign investments worth $12.25 million, according to the regional government.

Meanwhile, local businesspeople invested nearly $33 million in 16 businesses during the same period, and over 3,100 jobs were created.

Several countries, including Hong Kong, China, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, France, India, Malaysia and Luxembourg are investing in the region through 12 garment factories, an offshore supply base, oil and gas exploration and electricity among others.

I believe that such expos will contribute to the national economic development, said U Tint Swe, executive director of MRPL oil and gas company which operates in Irrawaddy Region.

But there is a problem with transportation in Irrawaddy. Pathein is just some 100 miles away from Yangon but the roads are not good. Similarly, the roads from Pathein to the project sites are also not good. If transportation improves rapidly, the region will develop more swiftly, he told The Irrawaddy.

The fair was attended by Myanmars commerce minister, officials of the Myanmar Investment Commission, and the governments team of economic advisors.Burma Lost Idol: New Wave of Myanmar Youth Activists Look Beyond Daw Aung San Suu Kyi

Myanmar State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi waits for the arrival of her delegation before a Japan Myanmar Summit meeting at the Palace State Guest House in Tokyo, Japan. on Oct. 9. / Reuters

YANGON  Myanmar youth activist and television host Thinzar Shun Lei Yi would once have called herself one of Daw Aung San Suu Kyis greatest fans. Now, she is one of her most vocal critics.

The 27-year-old belongs to a small but high-profile group of liberal activists, many former die-hard Daw Aung San Suu Kyi supporters, who are growing increasingly disillusioned with the administration they voted into power with sky-high hopes three years ago.

I lost my idol. Im confused, frustrated and lost, said Thinzar Shun Lei Yi, who hosts an Under 30 talk show on a popular local website.

Most of the activists and youths are now thinking: What is next, What will happen? What can we do? At this stage, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi is going her own way and nobody can intervene, and she wont listen to civil society organizations, she said.

While Daw Aung San Suu Kyi continues to inspire devotion among many ordinary Burmese, the emergence of a dissenting youth movement  driven by anger over her handling of ethnic minorities, including the Muslim Rohingya, as well as curbs on the media and civil society  presents a new challenge for her administration.

At stake is the future of Myanmars transition towards democracy after years of military rule. With a general election looming in 2020, the countrys first civilian government in decades is confronted by growing divisions among activists who once coalesced around her National League for Democracy (NLD) party.

NLD spokesman U Myo Nyunt said the party was trying to win over young people, increasing the budget for education and supporting vocational training programs.

The youth and the people expected a lot from our government, he said. We couldnt live up to their expectations, we admit. But we are doing our best.

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi took power in 2016 after a landslide election win, vowing to continue democratic reforms and end the countrys long-running civil wars.

Since then, the administration has come under pressure over its response to a military crackdown against the Rohingya minority that the United Nations has described as ethnic cleansing with genocidal intent, as well as faltering peace talks with ethnic armed groups and a stagnating economy.

Free speech

Activists say the civilian government has also become increasingly authoritarian, failing to use its overwhelming parliamentary majority to scrap colonial-era laws used to stifle dissent, while tightening restrictions on civil society.

In recent months, they have staged several protests, including an anti-war march in the commercial capital of Yangon in May that ended in scuffles. A total of 17 people were charged with unlawful protest, including Thinzar Shun Lei Yi. Their trial is ongoing.

Sensitive issues are banned, and protesters arrested and beaten, she said. The National League of Democracy, the party using the name of democracy, must respect democracy and human rights.

According to free speech organization Athan, which means Voice in Burmese, 44 journalists and 142 activists have faced trial since Daw Aung San Suu Kyis government took power.

They include Reuters reporters Ko Wa Lone, 32, and Ko Kyaw Soe Oo, 28, who were sentenced to seven years in prison in September after being convicted of breaking the colonial era Official Secrets Act.

The journalists are appealing their conviction to the countrys High Court, citing evidence of a police setup and lack of proof of a crime. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said in September their jailing had nothing to do with freedom of expression. The government says Myanmars courts are independent.

Athans founder, poet and activist Maung Saung Kha, was among the protesters charged alongside Thinzar Shun Lei Yi in May. Four months later, in September, they both helped organize another demonstration, this time for free speech.

Facing the crowd, Maung Saung Kha  who is still an NLD member  donned the orange shirt traditionally worn by his partys lawmakers and draped a green jacket resembling military garb over it. Armed with a copy of the state-run daily newspaper The Mirror, he began beating journalists gathered nearby.

The government has failed to use its power to protect peoples rights, he told Reuters.

Myo Nyunt, the party spokesman, said the government was cooperating with non-governmental organizations, but their activities needed to be examined case-by-case.

If it is not related to security or not a divisive issue among ethnics, we accept them, he said. We are going forward to democracy, so we acknowledge the role of NGOs. But we have concerns that NGOs are being influenced by sponsors instead of being independent.

Acknowledge Rohingya

While she has no control over the military, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has faced international criticism for failing to defend the Rohingya, more than 730,000 of whom fled a sweeping army crackdown in western Rakhine State in 2017, according to UN agencies. The crackdown was launched in response to insurgent Rohingya attacks on security forces.

Myanmar denies almost all the allegations of atrocities made by refugees, saying the army was carrying out a legitimate campaign against terrorists.

While many among Myanmars Buddhist majority revile the Rohingya, the young activists offer a rare sympathetic voice.

We acknowledge Rohingya. We totally denounce the fact that they are referred to as Bengali,' said Maung Saung Kha, referring to a term commonly used in Myanmar to imply the Rohingya are interlopers from Bangladesh, despite a long history in the country.

We havent seen any acknowledgement or punishment for the things that happened, he said. The refugees will not come back as long as these people think of them as less than humans, and that it is not a crime to kill them.

Khin Sandar, another young activist facing unlawful protest charges, spent months campaigning for the NLD ahead of the 2015 election but lost faith in Daw Aung San Suu Kyi over her handling of the Rakhine crisis.

Her family was affected in a wave of communal violence in 2012, when not only Rohingya but members of the Kaman Muslim minority, who also face discrimination but unlike the Rohingya are considered Myanmar citizens, were driven from their homes. They live in crowded internal displacement camps outside the Rakhine State capital Sittwe and are subjected to severe restrictions on movement.

In a speech after last years violence, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said all residents of Rakhine have access to education and healthcare services without discrimination.

My own nephew and nieces are still living in the Sittwe camps and they dont have those rights, said Khin Sandar. I was shocked. How can she say that in her speech? Afterwards, she said, she quit her job as researcher for an NLD lawmaker.

While the youth activists represent only a small segment of Myanmar society, they are increasingly influential in the grassroots activism scene, while their protests and public comments have attracted significant attention from media and from their vast social media followings.

Mostly in their 20s and 30s, they highlight the gulf between Myanmars young population  the median age is 27  and its ageing leadership, comprised of mostly men in their 60s and 70s.

Myanmar is a very conservative country. These young people, especially from Yangon, are now challenging that, said Myat Thu, a political analyst from the Yangon School of Political Science.

In order to have a revolution of ideas, not many people need to know. They will spread it gradually.News Chinese Company Behind Controversial Copper Mine Eyes Additional 100k Acres

Letpadaung copper mining project in Sagaing Division. / J Paing / The Irrawaddy

MANDALAYLocal concerns over the environmental impacts and potential for land confiscation in the Latpadaung copper mining area are rising again with the submission of an application by a Chinese mining company to carry out a land inspection of a potential copper mining site in the Yinmarbin area of Monywa Township, Sagaing Region.

Myanmar Yang Tse Copper Limited, a subsidiary of Beijing-based Wanbao Mining Limited, which is mining copper in the controversial Latpadaung copper mining zone of Sarlingyi in Monywa Township, is seeking permission to do a preliminary ground inspection for another copper mine in the area around Sarlingyi, Yinmabin and Kani townships, which would span over 100,000 acres (40,000 hectares) of land.

According to regional government officials, the application for permission was submitted to the regional government office on Nov. 29 and is yet to be granted.

The company and some government officials met at the end of November when the company requested the inspection. This is still under consideration of the government team and no permission has yet been granted for such an inspection, U Kam Za Mon, regional minister for agriculture, livestock and irrigation, told The Irrawaddy on Sunday.

The company is about to invest between 6 and 10 million US dollars for the inspection project on over 100,000 acres of land around Kani, Yinmabin and Sarlingyi, however, the project schedule is still unknown.

Even if permission to do the inspection was granted, it would not mean they can do mining in that area. We also have high concerns, as many of the problems of the mining currently ongoing in Latpadaung are still unsolvable, he added.

However, rumors that Myanmar Yang Tse Copper Limited is already bringing in its machinery ahead of the inspection has spread concern among the locals who have already witnessed environmental devastation and forced relocated in the copper mining area of Letpadaung.

Some locals from Yinmabin and Kani reported to us that the company has come to their area with the tools and machines to begin the inspection. The locals are worrying that their region will turn out like Latpadaung, said U Tun Tun Win, a local lawmaker of Kani Township.

In the area Myanmar Yang Tse Copper Limited has been eyeing for a new copper mine, there are at least 30 villages and thousands of acres of farmland. There are also two extinct volcanoes in Kani Township which is covered by the inspection area.

As local parliamentarians, we also do not want another environment-threatening project in our area. We are now collecting data and voices from the locals and will submit them to the parliament, [in order] not to allow such mining in the region, said Daw Aung Mary, a local parliamentarian from Yinmabin Township.

The first Letpadaung copper mining project, a joint venture between the Myanmar military-owned Union of Myanmar Economic Holdings Limited (UMEHL) and the Chinese firm Wanbao, was launched in 2010.

About 7,800 acres (3,200 hectares) of land in Salingyi Township were confiscated for the project, which has been dogged by serious protests by locals over poor compensation and environmental safeguards since 2012.Commentary U Than Shwe Shows His Hand

Senior General Than Shwe at an Independence Day dinner in January 2011. / Khin Maung Win

Dictators never really retire.

Former strongman Senior General Than Shwe is officially retired, but he still exerts an influence. He reads, follows daily news and holds gatherings with his staff, military leaders and top government officials including State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.

He also receives local and international businessmen including Chinese and Thais, who regularly pay their respects to him at his residence in Naypyitaw.

News of the former military strongmans recent meeting with ethnic Pa-O leaders at his home shouldnt come as a surprise; he recently expressed concern over the outbreak of clashes in Shan State, where renewed fighting between insurgent factions continues to escalate. (When in power, he also expressed concern to visiting diplomats about the Myanmar-Bangladesh border, where he was greatly concerned about migration and refugee problems.)

Two ethnic Shan insurgent groupsthe Shan State Progressive Party (SSPP) and the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS)are currently fighting each other in northern Shan State.

A few days ago, the former commander-in-chief urged Pa-O leaders to devote themselves to building roads and educating their children. U Than Shwes wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing is an ethnic Pa-O from southern Myanmar.

Under the current government, the peace process is falling apart. When he headed the previous regime, U Than Shwe ordered ethnic armed organizations to transform into a Border Guard Force. But in 2011, the government led by President U Thein Sein shelved the plan and instead held talks with the groups.

It is not known whether U Than Shwe still has any direct control over the armed forces, but he appears to continue to exert an influence over several different factions.

In late 2016, he met with ethnic Karen leader General Saw Mutu Say Poe, a leader of the Karen National Union, a powerful ethnic insurgent group in the southeast.

U Than Shwe has also received officials from an important foreign ally: China. He held a surprise meeting with Song Tao, then head of the International Liaison Department of the Communist Party of China, on his second official trip to Myanmar in August 2017. The meeting was held at U Than Shwes residence, a testimony to Chinas reach and influence in the country.

U Than Shwe is reviled internationally, but is highly regarded among his subordinates and some observers. His grand strategy still receives praise among top generals and those close to him.

He held an election in 2010 under the 2008 Constitution and left the throne to his trusted lieutenants, including General Thein Sein, who subsequently became president and handed over the position of commander-in-chief of the Myanmar military to Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who is 20 years his junior.

Moreover, U Than Shwes decision to maintain friendships with China and India were lauded, as Myanmar and its population suffered under the weight of Western sanctions in previous decades. In 2010, U Than Shwe made his last high-profile visits to these countries before handing over power to the civilian government. He pulled off a peaceful exit strategy that impressed many of his followers and some observers.

UN and Asean diplomats who have met him describe him as intelligent and well informed about regional events; one diplomat who spoke to him without an interpreter said of the former junta chief: Never underestimate him.

His decision to relocate the capital to central Myanmar was controversial but seemed to be motivated by strategic reasoning. For better or worse, Naypyitaw has become a gathering place for visiting foreign officialsincluding U.S. President Barack Obama in 2014and a venue for national and international conferences. State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi recently bought more than 90 acres of land there for the charitable organization she founded in honor of her late mother, the Daw Khin Kyi Foundation. It will open a vocational training school and establish a forest on the land.

She has confided to close aides that she plans to retire in Naypyitaw, rather than in Yangon. Several politicians including former President U Htin Kyaw and his wife have also built homes in the city.

Meetings with Suu Kyi

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi met U Than Shwe when he was serving as supreme leader of the ruling junta in an unsuccessful effort to negotiate a political settlement. But very few details have emerged regarding the nature of the deal they were attempting to reach, or precisely why it failed.

Since his retirement they have held several unpublicized meetings. The first is believed to have taken place in the first week of December 2015 shortly after Daw Aung San Suu Kyis National League for Democracy (NLD) won the general election in a landslide. U Than Shwe said he would support her as best he can if she genuinely worked for the development of the country, according to news reports. The reported meeting led to speculation that constitutional amendments were imminent, but that did not eventuate.

Written by the countrys former military rulers, the Constitution prevents Daw Aung San Suu Kyi from becoming president, because her children hold foreign citizenship. To get around this, the NLD invented a new role, state counselor (equivalent to the post of prime minister) as the de facto top leaders position. It is rumored in Naypyitaw that U Than Shwe tacitly approved of the creation of the position.

The two are also believed to have held several meetings at U Than Shwes residence shortly before U Htin Kyaw resigned as president in March 2018. As on earlier occasions, these meetings were unofficial, but it is believed the Constitution was discussed, along with the impending change in the head of state.

Shortly thereafter, U Win Myint assumed the presidency, while Daw Aung San Suu Kyi remained state counselor.

As a former psychological warfare officer and instructor at the Central Political College in Yangonand a keen chess playerU Than Shwe is known as a calm, cool-minded general, in sharp contrast to the short-tempered General Ne Win. One of his subordinates, a former regional commander, recalled being summoned from a frontier zone to U Than Shwes residence. The strongman didnt show up at the appointed time and kept the officer waiting for hours. During his nerve-wracking wait, the regional commander wondered whether he was facing a demotion or a promotion. When U Than Shwe finally emerged, he said little and told him to go back to the frontier. Relieved, the officer returned to his command without ever knowing why he was asked to come in the first place.

It is still too early to say whether U Than Shwes recent meetings with stakeholders and ethnic leaders are related to the approaching 2020 general election. He is known to have distanced himself from the Union Solidarity Development Party he helped to create, along with its top leaders.

The senior general never announced a plan for his retirement, but The Irrawaddy has learned that he still seeks to play a role in politics.

In August, a number of former generals submitted applications to form a political party, the National Political Party. To this end, ex-ministers U Soe Maung and U Lun Maung have applied to the Union Election Commission. Interestingly, U Soe Maung is known to be close to both U Than Shwe and Thura Shwe Mann, a former Lower House speaker. Thura Shwe Mann was the No. 3 general under the previous regime, but is also a close ally of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.

It is not known whether U Than Shwe is happy with the performance of the USDPprobably not. In August 2015, factional disputes erupted within the party, and Thura Shwe Mann and several other senior leaders were removed as tensions mounted ahead of the elections that November.

Security forces surrounded the headquarters of the USDP compound and U Shwe Mann was placed under semi house arrest for weeks. The grand strategist U Than Shwe didnt foresee this development and is known to have been upset by the infighting.

And while it is still too early to say whether U Soe Maung received U Than Shwes blessing to form the new political party, it is certainly possible.

Still relatively healthy in his 80s (he mostly eats rice soup for dinner and avoids heavy meals), U Than Shwe continues to shape events behind the scenes. As the countrys problems mount, it is no surprise that military generals continue to look to him for direction, even if he doesnt talk much. But his belief that the military still has a role to play in national politics continues to echo among his subordinates.RABAT - American actor Robert De Niro received the Gold Star career award on the first evening of the 17th Marrakech International Film Festival, presented to him by his longtime friend and collaborator, American director Martin Scorsese.

Scorsese said this could be considered the peak of De Niro's career, "but then this guy has more peaks than the Atlas mountains".

"We made our first film together, I think it was over 45 years ago," De Niro said. "One of the great blessings of my life." In his acceptance speech, De Niro lashed out against "the grotesque nationalism" of the US in the Trump era.

De Niro and Scorsese have collaborated on several films, starting with Taxi Driver, which won the Palme d'Or at the 1976 Cannes Film Festival.

De Niro won the 1981 Oscar for Best Actor for his performance in the Scorsese film Raging Bull.

The pair have teamed up again for their ninth film together, The Irishman, slated for release by Netflix in 2019. De Niro, 75, signed autographs for fans at the entrance to the convention centre at the festival, which runs through December 8.

In his speech, De Niro also gave an emotional tribute to Italian director Bernardo Bertolucci, who died last Monday and with whom he worked on the film 1900.Monday, December 3rd, 2018 (11:36 am) - Score 1,470

The President of the FTTH Council Europe, Ronan Kelly, has published a new open letter to EU telecoms ministers, which calls on them to stop misleading fibre advertising by UK and EU broadband ISPs that offer hybrid fibre services (e.g. FTTC); these are often significantly slower and less reliable than full fibre (FTTH).

Pure fibre optic ISPs (e.g. Fibre-to-the-Premises) run their optical fibre cables all the way to your doorstep, which use laser light to deliver significantly faster speeds (e.g. multi-Gigabit) and a much more reliable service. By comparison hybrid fibre solutions often add metallic (copper or aluminium) cables that can suffer from serious signal degradation over distance, dramatically restricting performances.

However hybrid fibre ISPs have continued to make a habit out of promoting themselves as fibre, fibre optic or fibre broadband providers, which the new generation of full fibre providers view as being confusing for consumers. This issue didnt matter so much when FTTP ISPs were still niche but today theyre the fastest growing network type.

Various Telecoms Ministers are due to meet tomorrow for the next Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council Meeting, which among other things will adopt the new European Electronic Communications Code (details). In response the FTTH Council Europe has penned the following letter to them.

Open Letter by the FTTH Council Europe As Telecoms Ministers are gathered in Brussels to adopt the new European Electronic Communications Code, the FTTH Council Europe highlights that misleading fibre advertising risks undermining its key objectives of incentivising Very High Capacity Network investments and empowering consumers in a transparent manner. According to the new Code, National Regulatory Authorities will have to consider 4 objectives when implementing the legislation: promoting competition, the internal market, end-users benefits as well as connectivity, access to and take-up of Very High Capacity Networks by all EU citizens and businesses. We are witnessing fake fibre advertising practices in several Member States using fibre or fibre speeds in advertisements for copper-based broadband, when the advertised product is not genuinely based on a full fibre connection. First of all, a consumer thinking they already have full fibre will never switch to a FTTH connection. Misusing the word fibre in advertisements prevents the consumers from making an informed choice about the products which are available to them and risks hindering fibre take-up. There is growing evidence that consumers are largely unaware of the form of internet connectivity they have bought, oftentimes due to the associated advertising. A survey conducted in the UK [by Cityfibre] has shown that almost a quarter (24%) of the respondents think they already have fibre cables running all the way to their home (fibre-to-the-premises), despite this was only available to 3% of UK properties. Where consumers know what they can choose from and understand the difference in performance between fibre and copper-based connections, they consciously choose fibre: the degree of satisfaction of FTTH end-users is substantially higher than recorded for any other Internet access technology in Sweden and 94% of non-FTTH users would consider subscribing to FTTH if it was made available in their area. Secondly, another study found that such large differences between what is being promised and what is being delivered could actively suppress the demand for fibre as copper-based access may be wrongly perceived to provide similar services. Selling inferior copper-based connections as fibre undermines the value proposition of real fibre and undercuts the investment case for full fibre deployment. We are firmly convinced that the proper use of the word fibre in advertisements would empower consumers to make an informed choice and in turn have a beneficial effect on the take-up of Very High Capacity Networks, which is vital for investments in new fibre networks. This issue has already been identified in several Member States and as the problems of FTTH demand suppression continue, a number of individual countries are leading the way by moving specific legislation to limit the use of FTTH, Full-Fibre and other fibre related terms in advertising. In Italy for example, the regulator requires that the term fibre is only used when marketing fibre to the home (FTTH) or fibre to the building (FTTB) services and requires operators to use an easily understandable traffic light system in their communications to consumers. The FTTH Council Europe is convinced that this action will prove to be a very powerful tool in unlocking investment in full fibre rollout and advocate for a more consistent and European approach to this issue. We believe that fibre is the only future-proof foundation enabling fixed and wireless Gigabit networks as well as all new innovative digital technologies and services. Acting on misleading fibre advertising is in the interest of all European citizens and businesses but is also in the interest of Europes global digital competitiveness and sustainability. Therefore we urge Member States, National Regulatory Authorities and BEREC to take action both individually and collectively to prevent misleading fibre advertising. This will contribute to unlocking the investment potential in fibre across Europe as well as to ensuring that consumers can make well informed choices based on genuine, transparent information. We remain at your disposal to provide any further inputs or details. Yours sincerely, Ronan Kelly FTTH Council Europe President

In the UK its Cityfibre that has been fighting for a Judicial Review of the Advertising Standards Authoritys (ASA) current position (here), which allows slower hybrid fibre (FTTC etc.) ISPs to promote their services as fibre optic (a decision on this is due soon). However we should correct the council in that at present 5% of the UK can access a full fibre service (latest Ofcom data), not 3%.

One other thing worth mentioning is that Italy still allows FTTB services to be advertised like FTTP, which is despite the fact that such deployments often still involve a small amount of copper cable (usually higher capacity Ethernet cables and only inside the building). In the practical sense these can still deliver Gigabit speeds, although it does muddy the water.

Meanwhile DOCSIS based Hybrid Fibre Coax (HFC) dominated cable networks, such as Virgin Media in the UK, might well argue that their network will also be able to deliver Gigabit speeds (at least for downloads) once the new DOCSIS 3.1 upgrade is introduced. Heck in an ideal FTTdp style setup even G.fast could deliver Gigabit performance, although at present there seems to be no chance of that on Openreachs (BT) network.

Whether or not any of this will have an impact on the EU Telecoms Ministers remains to be seen, although they tend to leave issues of advertising up to individual member states (currently this still includes the UK).

UPDATE 12:11pm

Cityfibre has issued the following comment.

Greg Mesch, CEO at CityFibre, said: We welcome todays demand for change from the FTTH Council as, without a new approach to the advertising rules for full fibre broadband, the UK will continue to lag behind other European countries that have already sorted this issue out. UK regulators must act now to avoid progress being held back any further. This is a serious barrier to innovation and investment that affects not only the rights of consumers, but the future growth and competitiveness of the UK economy.

UPDATE 4:34pm

Rural fibre optic ISP TrueSpeed has also commented.

Evan Wienburg, Founder and CEO of TrueSpeed, said: We supported CityFibres efforts to challenge the ASAs position regarding partial-fibre advertising nine months ago, and we welcome any further efforts to stop broadband providers from misleading consumers in order to sell them inferior products that will ultimately leave them in the digital slow lane. Our industry is beset with jargon and complexity  a scenario that should serve as a rallying call for providers to introduce greater simplicity and promote customer education. Sadly, too many parties are more interested in obfuscation and consumer confusion, on the basis that it might help them make a quick buck before customers realise theyve been short-changed.

UPDATE 4th Dec 2018

Weve added a response from KCOM.Monday, December 3rd, 2018 (9:10 am) - Score 1,253

A new report from Billmonitor has accused Ofcom of showing little interest in tackling the allegedly Wild West market for B2B mobile services. The investigation claimed that only one in ten small businesses get a fair deal from their mobile operator and EE is the most expensive UK provider for business contracts.

The report (here) states that Billmonitor sent several Freedom of Information (FOI) requests to Ofcom asking whether its data confirmed differences in average bills between the big three providers (i.e. EE, Vodafone and O2). After being denied a number of FOI requests, the regulator eventually confirmed  in February 2018  that there is a 15-20% cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive mobile provider for business services.

Unfortunately Ofcom refused to identify the most expensive provider and suggested that significant spend differences might be attributable to differences in usage, although they failed to provide any evidence to back up this assertion. More recently the regulator has said there are issues with their data, which they claimed cannot now be considered reliable.

In response Billmonitor built its own model by analysing bills from 356 businesses (covering thousands of mobile connections), which they claim accounted for differences in usage.

Key Findings * The study found, with 89.9% confidence, that EE was the most expensive of the big three providers for business services. * By comparison O2 was found to be more expensive than Vodafone, with 75% confidence. * The data suggests a 16.3% cost difference between the big three mobile providers, for the average SME customer. * Only 1 in 10 SMEs get a fair deal from their providers and as a result UK SMEs could be overpaying by a collective 1bn on their mobile bills. * Larger SMEs seem to be cut the worst deals from mobile providers and can each save, on average, over 24,000 per year.

These findings, if verified by independent investigations, raise serious questions. Price differences of 15-20 per cent, not attributable to differential consumption patterns, indicate that a market is not close to being competitive, said Tommaso Valletti, the European Commissions Chief Competition Economist.

Billmonitor is now calling on the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to investigate the current mobile provider market for small and medium sized business services.

Dr Stelios Koundouros, Billmonitors Founder and Director, said: It is staggering that in a market so critical for businesses, there isnt oversight to prevent SMEs falling victim to what is becoming its own Wild West. We call on the CMA to investigate the business telecoms market, to take over the job Ofcom seems to show little interest in despite Billmonitors three year-long pleas, and ensure SMEs of all sizes get a fair deal when procuring a mobile provider. The fact that one provider can charge firms with similar average usage significantly more than another is a symptom of a broken market that needs fixing. As we move into the post-Brexit era, empowering the UKs SMEs with fairness and transparency  as the CMA successfully did for the energy market, whose uncompetitiveness was only half as costly for SMEs  should be a key point on the governments agenda.

The report claims that the telecoms and energy markets are cost comparable, while noting that a similar issue also affected the energy market before the CMA intervened. In its 2016 investigation, the CMA found that SMEs were paying 500 million a year too much for energy (half what Billmonitor found for mobile operators) and that average prices offered by the big six companies were around 14% above the competitive level in the SME segment.

However its important to stress that judging mobile operators in this way is notoriously difficult. This is particularly true with respect to business services where, not unlike consumer products, there can be key differences in value added features, usage levels, the quality of support, contract terms, network performance and coverage between operators. By comparison energy supplies are linear, thus we dont tend to notice differences in the quality of the supplied gas or electricity.

Arguably just because several operators with roughly the same service charge differently does not automatically mean the market is failing, particularly one that is supposed to be commercially competitive (i.e. you can switch provider) and where the quality can vary so greatly. Nevertheless some of Billmonitors gripes may at least warrant a closer look.

UPDATE 10:54am

Ofcom has responded to offer a comment.

An Ofcom Spokesperson told ISPreview.co.uk: The vast majority of smaller businesses are satisfied with the value they get from the mobile market. But were making it easier for businesses to switch to a better deal, including new measures that mean they can switch provider by simply sending a text.

The regulator has also worked to introduce end-of-contract notifications for small business customers and new rules to ensure that all SMEs are given clearer, more detailed information upfront about what service quality to expect (including whether they can claim compensation when problems occur).

UPDATE 4th December 2018

Mobile operator EE has now given their reaction to Billmonitors report.Start-ups are invited to apply to pitch their company live to thousands of end users, partners and investors at Florida event.

Trumbull, CT  December 3, 2018  TMC today announced the deadline to apply for IDEA Showcase 2019 at ITEXPO, held January 30 - February 1, 2019 at the Greater Ft. Lauderdale/Broward Country Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Startups looking to compete and pitch their company live to a panel of judges and thousands of to thousands of end users, partners and investors must apply by December 19, 2018. IDEA Showcase which will take place on January 31st is a friendly competition for new companies to take center stage and present their innovative ideas and business plans. Judging for IDEA Showcase will be based on the submission of a completed entry form plus a 5-minute live pitch, and Q&A with the judging panel. Audience members will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite pitch as well.

Many of the companies featured at our event over the decades have been sold for a total of tens of billions of dollars. Skype for example was most recently sold to Microsoft for $8.5 billion, BroadSoft sold to Cisco for just under $2 Billion and Jamie Siminoffs Ring was sold to Amazon for $1 billion. said Rich Tehrani, TMC CEO and conference chairman. We can only imagine what amazing disruption and incredible exits await this years participants!

To submit your startup for IDEA Showcase, please complete a submission form at: https://www.f6s.com/ideashowcase/apply . For more information about expanding your presence with a startup exhibitor package contact TMC's Joe Fabiano at 203-852-6800 x132 or Maureen Gambino at 203-852-6800 x109.

IDEA Showcase is a part of ITEXPO which is one event where telecom and IT professionals, C-levels and business owners, developers, and the Channel all gather to learn in conference sessions and conduct business on the show floor. This event has become the annual meeting point for buyers of communications hardware and services to sit face-to-face with hundreds of manufacturers and solutions providers in one place, for three incredibly productive days.

ITEXPO is a part of a super show that includes includes SD-WAN Expo, MSP Expo, CVx, Asterisk World, IoT Evolution Expo, The Blockchain Event and brand new events dedicated to AI and Machine Learning, The New Intelligence, The Future of Work Expo, AIOps Expo and Adaptive Intent-Based Networking Expo.

ITEXPO is supported by, Diamond sponsor, Digium a Sangoma Company, Platinum sponsors Fiber Mountain, Grandstream, Jive Communications, Sansay, Telnyx, VoIP Supply, Yealink and Gold sponsor Bandwidth, Trasker and Zip911.

Early bird rates are in effect through November 30th. For more information or to register for ITEXPO, contact [email protected] . For media inquiries, contact Jessica Seabrook.



For the latest ITEXPO news, updates and information follow the event on Facebook and Twitter at @ITEXPO.

About TMC

Through education, industry news, live events and social influence, global buyers rely on TMC's content-driven marketplaces to make purchase decisions and navigate markets. As a result, leading technology vendors turn to TMC for unparalleled branding, thought leadership and lead generation opportunities. Our in-person and online events deliver unmatched visibility and sales prospects for all participants. Through our custom lead generation programs, we provide clients with an ongoing stream of leads that turn into sales opportunities and build databases. Additionally, we bolster brand reputations with the millions of impressions from display advertising on our news sites and newsletters. Making TMC a 360-degree marketing solution, we offer comprehensive event and road show management services and custom content creation with expertly ghost-crafted blogs, press releases, articles and marketing collateral to help with SEO, branding, and overall marketing efforts. For more information about TMC and to learn how we can help you reach your marketing goals, please visit www.tmcnet.com and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, @tmcnet .

Media and Analyst Contact:

Jessica Seabrook

Marketing Director

203.852.6800 ext.170

[email protected]

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Edited by Maurice NagleMacquarie Government has inked an exclusive partnership with Mesosphere, the multi-cloud automation platform company, to make industry-leading cloud management technologies available to the Australian Government.

Under the deal, Macquarie Government, part of the the ASX-listed Macquarie Telecom Group, will provide and run Mesospheres DC/OS, which provides a big data platform-as-a-service and next-generation application development (containers/microservices), on its federally accredited cloud services.

Macquarie Government says Mesosphere is the most flexible platform for containerised, data-intensive applications that allows experimentation and choice of IT environment.

According to Macquarie Government, the framework will help government agencies drive and leverage big data investments, reduce spending on public cloud by up to 30%, cut project application development lifecycles by almost half, and accelerate time to value for new digital initiatives.

Macquarie Government said Australian government agencies were embracing cloud as a way to reduce spending and increase productivity, but many were uncertain about implementations.

Macquarie, in its work with various agencies, identified a need to help its customers deploy a hybrid IT model without locking them in to a single public cloud. To solve this challenge, Macquarie Government is working with Mesosphere to deliver better, hybrid solutions for its customers, the company noted.

"Macquarie Government is committed to delivering innovations that create a performance and security benefit for our government customers and steer their agencies toward a more efficient digital future," said Aidan Tudehope, managing director, Macquarie Government.

Both Macquarie Government and Mesosphere say the partnership will enable customers to modernise their IT environment for increased agility, flexibility, management, and security.

"The partnership with Macquarie Government is exciting, as it will expand the data services and frameworks offered on the DC/OS Service Catalogue," said William Freiberg, chief operating officer, Mesosphere.

"We look forward to working with the Macquarie Government team to assist federal and state governments to break the shackles of proprietary cloud lock-in and deliver an accelerated time-to-market with the infrastructure and services needed to deploy machine learning and IoT applications at scale.

Their combination of owned and operated, carrier, co-location, cyber and cloud services with all the requisite government certifications is unique in the Australian market. Their focus on cloud security and cyber security made them a natural partner for our DC/OS platform.

Under the partnership, Macquarie Government has provided Mesosphere a test facility and has completed proof-of-concept projects in Macquarie Governments local data centres.

This is now available to demonstrate the value of Mesosphere DC/OS in enabling customers with data agility, for their data lakes, application development projects and adoption of hybrid cloud, Macquarie Government said.Technology such as artificial intelligence has a pivotal role to play when it comes to supporting people with disabilities in Australia and creating a more inclusive society, according to researchers at Western Sydney University.

The researchers made their comment on Monday, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Dr Karen Soldatic, Dr Shanthi Robertson and Dr Liam Magee from the Institute for Culture and Society are examining how Australia can better foster a sense of inclusion for people with disabilities who come from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Dr Soldatic, lead researcher on the project, says that although the National Disability Insurance Scheme will assist almost 460,000 people with vital support services by 2019, the NDIS population only represents 10% of Australias total disability population.

Australian Bureau of Statistics data suggests that there are 4.3 million Australians living with a disability, many of whom will miss out on the support and services they require for ongoing inclusive participation in Australian society as they do not meet the eligibility criteria, she said.

In addition, people from CaLD backgrounds may have limited experience of the Australian disability service system, may not be aware of their eligibility for disability services and supports, or may not meet the eligibility criteria because of the types of impairments they experience or their visa status.

Dr Robertson, who has just completed a three-year research project on the experiences of Australian migrants, says proposed government policies to extend waiting periods for the disability support pension and age pension mean increasing numbers of long-term migrant residents who develop chronic conditions or impairment will have limited access to social security.

The research team says it hopes to build new avenues for migrants with disabilities to participate in wider social activities through the use of AI, and to advocate for better and more inclusive designs of AI itself.

Much has been made, rightly, of the perils of emerging technologies such as AI, including the ways it can bias outcomes for minority groups, said software researcher Dr Magee. We are also interested in how these technologies can help to break down barriers.

The research has found that even cheap and relatively accessible consumer technologies like language translation apps can enable day-to-day inclusion and autonomy of non-English speaking background migrants.

Furthermore, digital technology can enable transnational families to provide aspects of care and connection to family members over distance, Dr Robertson said.

Dr Soldatic said the International Day of Persons with Disabilities was an opportunity to acknowledge the important steps Australian society has taken towards including people with disability, and to acknowledge the major work that remains to be done.

Given Australias commitment to a multicultural society, it is important that we build adaptive technologies that respond to the needs of Australias diverse disability community.Unsolicited scam telephone calls still plague Australia, with a new report just released by the Australian Communications and Media Authority revealing that six in 10 Australians are more concerned with scam calls now compared to five years ago.

And according to the new Unsolicited calls in Australia  Consumer research report from the ACMA released on Monday, seven in 10 Australians say they dont believe enough is being done to protect individuals from scam calls, while around two in five people are more concerned about telemarketing calls than five years ago.

The report examined the incidence of different types of unsolicited calls Australians receive, their concerns about these calls and the strategies they use to manage them  and also explores understanding and attitudes around consent and regulation of unsolicited calls, and consumer awareness and use of the Do Not Call Register.

And the report also found that scams and telemarketing calls are the most common types of unsolicited call, and seven in 10 Australians have received scam calls in the last six months on their landline and half have received scam calls on their mobile.

The ACMA says it has now established a Scam Technology Project to explore practical technical solutions to address the proliferation of scam calls over Australian telecommunications networks.

Scam calls are more than a nuisance. They pose a real threat, particularly to those in vulnerable circumstances such as older people, said ACMA chair Nerida OLoughlin.

This project will investigate what can be done to disrupt scam call activity, including possible consumer or network-based solutions like call blocking and network traffic authentication protocols.

OLoughlin said the project will be assisted by a reference group with representatives from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and the Australian Cyber Security Centre, and will also tap into industry expertise and experience.

The project responds to ACMA research, which found that more than half of Australian adults have received scam calls daily or weekly, and three quarters of Australian adults believe not enough is done to protect individuals from scam calls.

"Scam calls are more than a nuisance. They pose a real threat, particularly to those in vulnerable circumstances such as older people," OLoughlin said.

This project will investigate what can be done to disrupt scam call activity, including possible consumer or network-based solutions like call blocking and network traffic authentication protocols."

ACMAs new consumer research also found that:

Two in five people are more concerned about telemarketing than five years ago.

Four out of five people believe they didnt have an existing relationship with the telemarketer who last called and were confused about how or if their consent was obtained to receive telemarketing calls.

OLoughlin notes that the ACMA has recently imposed significant penalties for breaches of the telemarketing and spam rules as part of its targeted compliance campaign.

The level of consumer concern about unwanted telemarketing supports the strong enforcement action the ACMA is taking. The ACMA remains concerned about how these sectors deal with consumers, particularly how they obtain consent. We will continue to keep a close eye and take further action where warranted, OLoughlin warned.

The research informs an ACMA report to the Minister for Communications and the Arts concerning Australias telemarketing and spam rules, also released on Monday.Egypt: first arms expo inaugurated in Cairo In Edex also ministers of defense of France, Greece and Cyprus

(ANSAmed) - CAIRO, DECEMBER 3 - The first Egyptian arms expo was inaugurated Monday in Cairo. The Egypt Defense Expo (Edex) was opened by president (and former general) Abdel Fattah Al Sisi and will be attended through Wednesday by 373 companies in the sector from 41 countries, according to the website Al Ahram.



''Edex 2018'' expects ''at least 10,000 visitors''. The inaugural ceremony was attended by the ministers of defense of France, Greece, Cyprus, the United Arab Emirates, South Korea, Oman, Sudan, Cameroon and Somalia.



Also in attendance were ''seven army chiefs of staff and as many ministers of military production'', reported the Egyptian website.



Organized by the Egyptian armed forces, the expo ''displays the most recent military and security technologies, equipment and systems''. The expo is organized in cooperation with Clarion Events, the British company specialized in defense and security expositions. (ANSAmed)Australia's US$1.15 billion Alt-Fi (alternative finance) market, including peer-to-peer lending and crowd-funding, grew 88% in 2017, surpassing US$1 billion for the first time and consolidating its position to become the second largest market in Asia-Pacific, according to a newly published study.

The study, titled "Cultivating Growth: The 3rd Asia Pacific Alternative Finance Industry Report", surveyed 340 Alt-Fi companies, and was conducted by The Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance at University of Cambridge Judge Business School, The Academy of Internet Finance at Zhejiang University, and the Asian Development Bank Institute in collaboration with KPMG, Invesco and CME Group Foundation.

According to the study, Australia has remained the second largest Alt-Fi market behind China in Asia-Pacific, with funding rising from US$609.6 million to US$1.15 billion.

And China continued its global domination of the sector with a massive US$358 billion raised in 2017, up from US$243.28 billion in 2016.

Balance sheet (business) lending in Australia jumped 164% to US$574.01 million in 2017, retaining its position as the leading form of alternative finance by volume.

Peer-to-peer (P2P) and marketplace consumer lending in Australia increased 15 times in 2017, up to US$256.67 million.

P2P and marketplace business lending in Australia increased 16 times, to US$20.73 million in 2017.

Equity-based crowdfunding fell from US$10.51 million in 2016 to US$2.04 million in 2017.

Other key market findings from the report include:

Ian Pollari, national sector leader, Banking, and global co-leader, KPMG Fintech Practice at KPMG Australia, said: Whilst China remains well entrenched as the largest online alternative finance market in absolute terms, both globally and regionally, the report also shows the rapid growth in the rest of the Asia Pacific region, with both Australia and South Korea recording market volumes in excess of the US$1 billion for the first time.

Whilst the Australian figures point to an encouraging level of adoption, the total size of the alternative finance market is only around 1% of total credit outstanding, so there is substantial upside for the sector. Lack of both consumer and SME awareness remains a major obstacle.

This third study of the Asia-Pacific online alternative finance market contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the regions fast-growing fintech sector. The 2018 report highlights a Chinese industry with a slower pace of growth that is undergoing regulatory changes to enhance the governance practices and the long-term transparency and sustainability of their market.

In terms of institutional participation rate, Australia was the highest country within the Asia-Pacific region at 65%, and Australia was also the country with the least consensus regarding platform perceptions, with 36% of platforms viewing existing regulations as adequate and appropriate, 9% as inadequate and too relaxed, and 27% as excessive and too strict.

And when it came to business model innovation, just 8% of surveyed alternative finance platforms in Australia said they had significantly altered their business model in the past year, although 92% of platforms reported slightly altering their business models.

Dave Dowsett, global head of Technology Strategy, Innovation, and Planning at Invesco, said, The financial services industry is standing at the threshold of unprecedented disruption.

The fourth industrial revolution is upon us, and companies are investing record amounts of capital into innovation to ensure their relevance and competitiveness are maintained. As a part of this fourth industrial revolution, a growing alternative finance industry is changing the way individuals and organisations interact with flowing global capital and envision new kinds of products and distribution methods.

The projection for advancement in alternative finance based on the findings uncovered in this report show that the opportunities remain enticing across the Asia Pacific region. As digital experiences mature, traditional financial models and instruments and the emerging technologies driving alternative finance such as artificial intelligence, process automation, and blockchain collide and intertwine.

The full report can be viewd at KPMG.The first change of rules around the H-1B visa, which has been used by many Indian IT outsourcing outfits to take workers to the US, will be announced by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Department of Homeland Security on Monday US time.

The new rule would give priority to those seeking workers with advanced degrees from US universities.

The manner of application has also changed, with companies required to register online rather than submit a full-fledged application for a new employee.

A total of 65,000 visas can be issued each year, plus 20,000 to workers with master's and doctoral qualifications. All applications will first be reviewed before actual petitions are sought.

"Changing the order in which USCIS selects beneficiaries under these separate allocations will likely increase the total number of petitions selected under the regular cap for H-1B beneficiaries who possess a masters or higher degree from a US institution of higher education each fiscal year, particularly in years of high demand for new H-1B visas when USCIS is likely to receive a greater number of petitions for beneficiaries who qualify for the advanced degree exemption," according to the draft rule.

But no rules have yet been announced for other changes which have been rumoured to be in the wings for a long time. These include the stripping of work rights for spouses of H-1B visa holders.

There has also been no change in the minimum salary required to hire a worker on an H-1B visa.

Since Donald Trump was elected in 2016, the US has been clamping down on H-1B visas which are used. Many of those who enter the US on these visas are Indians who work in the technology industry.

In October 2017, the government issued new guidelines making it tougher for existing H-1B holders to renew their visas, specifying that they would have to go through the same process for renewal as they did to first obtain the visa.

The number of applicants for H-1B visas fell this year for the second time in five years. In April 2018, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services received 190,098 applications compared to 199,000 a year earlier. The figure was 236,000 in April 2016.Eugene Kaspersky: "...the events of the past year that culminated in this decision were almost expected, and not just by our company, but by the cyber security industry in general."

Russian security firm Kaspersky Lab has had its appeal against a US public sector software ban thrown out by the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit Court.

The company had appealed against the constitutionality of a directive by the Department of Homeland Security and provisions in the National Defence Authorisation Act asking government agencies to stop using its software.

In December 2017, Kaspersky filed an appeal against a September 2017 ban by the Department of Homeland Security on the use of its products in the public service.

And in February this year, the company filed a case against a ban by Congress, codified in the NDAA for the fiscal year 2018, claiming that the ban was unconstitutional.

The ban took effect on 1 October.

Kaspersky's software was banned from use by US public sector agencies last year, following reports that Russia had exploited its software to spy on customers and obtain malware created by the NSA.

Reacting to the dismissal of the appeals, Kaspersky chief executive and founder Eugene Kaspersky said: "The DC Circuit Courts decision is disappointing, but the events of the past year that culminated in this decision were almost expected, and not just by our company, but by the cyber security industry in general.

"Were sure that the issues involved in our litigation go far beyond technical aspects of US constitutional law; they include real-world problems concerning everyone: a progression of protectionism and balkanisation in a world of understated cyber-rivalry and highly sophisticated international cyber threats."

Last month, Kaspersky Lab opened its first data processing unit and transparency centre in Zurich. The centres have been set up in order to avoid the constant allegations of spying from Western nations.The leadership at Google considered a project to launch a censored search engine in China so sensitive that they would only talk about it and took no notes during meetings to reduce any paper trail, two company sources have told The Intercept, adding that the privacy team was kept in the dark about the plan.

The website, which broke the story about Google's bid to re-enter China on 1 August  the company had a restricted search operation in that country from 2006 to 2010  cited the sources as saying last week that only a few hundred of Google's 88,000 employees were told about the plan for Dragonfly, the code name for the project.

Since news of the project broke, there have been numerous developments, with the latest being a group of 200 employees publishing a letter calling on the company to cancel the project.

That came after Amnesty International issued a similar call and US Vice-President Mike Pence told Google to halt the project. The company has been silent about Dargonfly for the most part, but in October, chief executive Sundar Pichai referred to it in public, telling a conference that what had been developed up to that point was "very promising".

Last week's report said the project was considered so sensitive that some engineers and other staff were told they would be sacked if they discussed it with others who were not working on Dragonfly.

One current employee said: They [leadership] were determined to prevent leaks about Dragonfly from spreading through the company. Their biggest fear was that internal opposition would slow our operations.

The initial talks about the project began in 2016, but only in early 2017 was a prototype developed. It was developed as an app for Android and iOS devices and blacklisted words that would be blacklisted in China, such as "human rights", "student protest", and "Nobel Prize".

The man tasked with the privacy review of the project at the time, Yonatan Zunger, who left in 2017, indicated that his work was opposed by Google's top exeutive for China and South Korea, Scott Beaumont.

Zunger's final report said Google would be expected to function in China as part of the ruling party's authoritarian system. It also said that the company would find it impossible to push back against any government requests or refuse to build systems for surveillance.

The report was to be discussed with Pichai and other senior leaders but Zunger and members of the security team were not notified of the meeting which was held for this purpose.The company that manages the undersea data and power cable that links Tasmania to the Australian mainland says an additional inquiry commissioned into the failure of the cable in December 2015 is now complete and reiterates what was said earlier: that the failure was caused by unknown factors.

In a statement on Friday, Basslink said Cable Consulting International, a UK-based firm regarded as a leading submarine power cable expert, was initially asked to conduct an inquiry into the cable failure.

A further independent investigation was carried out and the report was completed recently.

Basslink said the new report, known as the CCI Report, had come to the conclusion that the cause of the failure was unknown, refuting the charges made by Hydro Tasmania, a subsidiary of the government, and the state.

The dispute centres around a Basslink outage that occurred in December 2015 and was not fixed for six months. In March, the Tasmanian Government formallya notice of dispute, claiming damages of $122 million for the outage. The disputein April.

Since then, charges have been flung back and forth. On 20 December 2017, Hydro Tasmania said it had identified the cause of the Basslink failure and cited two experts who said it was because Basslink had exceeded its design limit.

But two days later, Basslink chief executive Malcolm Eccles dismissed the findings, saying that the expert reports cited as proof merely outlined one possible cause of the outage.

The CCI report had been provided to both Hydro Tasmania and the state, the Basslink statement said.

"Basslink has consistently maintained its position that the cable failure was a force majeure event under the Basslink Services Agreement and Basslink Operations Agreement," the statement said. "The recent CCI Report further supports Basslinks view that the cable failure was a force majeure event under the BSA and BOA."ANSAmed - Tomorrow's events in the Mediterranean

(ANSAmed) - ROME, DECEMBER 3 - These are some of the main events scheduled for tomorrow in the Euro-Mediterranean area: ROME - Foreign Press, 11.30am. Conference titled 'Morocco in the enlarged Mediterranean, between economy stability immigration and security' with Ambassador Hassan Abouyoub who will meet the Italian and foreign press.



ROME - Signing of a memorandum of understanding between Israel and Confagricoltura, with the aim of strengthening scientific collaboration and technological innovation.



ROME - Visit by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.



MARRAKECH - Film festival continues (until 8/12).



CAIRO - The third edition of the Global Migration Film Festival continues (to December 18).



RABAT - 4th edition of the Festival of Theatre Academies, with the participation of over 200 artists (until 5/12). (ANSAmed).



Two States, Jerusalem at center of Pope and Abbas meeting 20-minute-long encounter

(ANSAmed) - VATICAN CITY, DECEMBER 3 - Pope Francis and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Monday spoke about ''the reconciliation path within the Palestinian population as well efforts to reactivate the peace process between Israelis and Palestinians to reach a two-State solution'', the Vatican said.



''Particular attention was devoted to the status of Jerusalem, stressing the importance of recognizing and preserving the identity and universal value of the holy city for the three Abrahamic religions''.



The Vatican described the hearing as ''cordial'' and said the pontiff and the Palestinian president noted the ''good relations between the Holy See and Palestine and the positive role of Christians and of the Church's activities in Palestinian society, ratified by the Global accord of 2015''.



Discussing the ''reconciliation path within the Palestinian population, as well as efforts to reactivate the peace process between Israelis and Palestinians to reach a two-State solution'', the pope and Abbas called for ''a renewed engagement of the international community to accommodate the legitimate aspirations of both populations''. (ANSAmed).



Manila (CNN Philippines Life)  At 2:30 in the afternoon, the 94-year-old Juan Ponce Enrile sits on a cushioned chair, surrounded by his three bodyguards, at the holding room of the University Theater in UP Diliman.

He is the first candidate to arrive for this year's senatorial forum, half an hour earlier than the call time. In just a few hours, he and seven other senatorial hopefuls will discuss and answer the most pressing issues of the Philippines today.

Armie Jarin-Bennett, the president of CNN Philippines, goes inside the room and greets Enrile, welcoming him to the event and thanking him for agreeing to join the discussion. Of course, I don't want to disappoint you, Enrile tells her. This should be a piece of cake 'no? Bennett asks, pertaining to Enriles years in public service. If elected, it will be his fifth time in the upper chamber so a forum such as this should come easy for him. Hindi naman, he answers. Depende sa questions, he adds, chuckling.

Veteran lawmaker Juan Ponce Enrile is the first to arrive at the University Theater. Photo by JILSON TIU

Ex-Marine Gary Alejano asks about the flow of the senatorial forum. Photo by JILSON TIU

At exactly 3 p.m., Magdalo party list representative, staunch Duterte critic, and ex-Marine Gary Alejano goes inside the holding room, wearing a midnight blue jacket over a white shirt and a pair of jeans. He shakes hands with Enrile and proceeds to survey the room. He asks his staff what he's supposed to wear onstage. A woman from his team takes out a suit, a barong, and a white button-down shirt. Ito na lang, he says, pointing to the simplest option: the white button-down with the words Sundalo ng Pilipinas appliqued on its front pocket.

As Alejano settles down, Chel Diokno, a human rights lawyer who has been pushing for a better justice system, then comes in, wearing teal, his chosen political color. Earlier, before any of the candidates arrived, the first pool of supporters outside of the theater are clad in shades of teal and mint.

The color is my sisters choice, says Laya Diokno, one of Chel's daughters. My dad is not a traditional politician and what he is fighting for is not what traditional politicians are fighting for. Its different. The color comes with the difference in who he is.

Human rights lawyer Chel Diokno, son of former senator Jose Diokno, arrives at the venue wearing his political color, teal. Photo by JILSON TIU

***

Alejano and Diokno are both running under the Liberal Party while Enrile is running as an independent candidate. The first one to arrive under the administration party, PDP-Laban, is re-electionist senator JV Ejercito.

In a navy suit, he disembarks from his pitch black SUV with his family, his bodyguards, and his communications team in tow. He walks to the holding room, his hand over his young kid who is playing on his phone, oblivious to the crowd and cameras trailing their path. A few minutes later, in comes former Bureau of Corrections chief Ronald Bato dela Rosa, with a posse of four men (one wearing a gray shirt with the tag line, Sagot kita, itaga mo sa BATO) and one woman. Bato exchanges pleasantries with Ejercito, sharing his recent trip up north  Kalinga, Apayao, pumunta ako, he says.

Dela Rosas communications manager, the sole woman on his team today, tells him that there are other senatorial candidates in the other room and that he might want to say hi. He excuses himself from Ejercito, and goes straight to Enrile, who is focused on his iPad.

Alejano then makes his way to Bato and Enrile, and the three chat about their experiences in security and defense  Enrile as Ferdinand Marcos Defense Minister during the martial law years and Bato and Alejano's time in the Philippine Military Academy. Kami ang first graduate ni Cory Aquino, boasts dela Rosa.

Re-electionist JV Ejercito chats with dela Rosa about the latter's trip in Kalinga and Apayao. Photo by JILSON TIU

Alejano and dela Rosa, both Philippine Military Academy graduates, exchange anecdotes with Enrile about their time serving the public through security and defense. Photo by JILSON TIU

The former PNP chief then leaves the room and goes outside of the theater, stays by the metal railing, as he seemingly reads notes from his phone. Just as he positions himself, a white van parks in the back entrance of the theater  former senator Serge Osmena is here.

Waiting for him at the back entrance are a few of his supporters wearing a light blue shirt (the words Subok na! printed on the back). I've been a fan since forever, one of them says, and then takes a photo with the politician. Osmena is assisted to his holding room, where Ejercito is at as well. The two candidates have a quick chat as Dutertes former political adviser and MMDA head, Francis Tolentino, comes in.

Outside the theater, middle-aged women wearing white shirts flock together, waiting for entry. Nag-dayo pa kami mula Tagaytay, says a Tolentino supporter, who shares that they have been campaigning for Tolentino ever since he was mayor of Tagaytay City. [Sumusuporta kami sa kanya] kasi kahit dati pa madali siya lapitan tungkol sa kahit ano  gamit sa eskuwela, gamit para sa mga anak, kahit ano.

In their holding room, Ejercito, Tolentino, and Osmena are glued to the television, watching political analysts critique and discuss the chances of the senatorial candidates present at the CNN Philippines forum. As the topic moves to Ejercito's credentials, the analyst mentions that Ejercito walks his talks, the quote flashing on T.V. He immediately calls his staff, signalling to take a photo of the screen.

Former senator Serge Osmena is glued to the T.V. as political analysts discuss the various senatorial candidates' credentials. Photo by JILSON TIU

Former MMDA head Francis Tolentino and JV Ejercito, both under the administration party PDP-Laban, talk while watching the analysts discuss their chances on T.V. Photo by JILSON TIU

Senator Bam Aquino shakes hands with Enrile, after greeting his fellow LP candidates, Alejano and Diokno. Photo by JILSON TIU

The last to arrive is senator Bam Aquino, in his signature black pique shirt and black-rimmed eyeglasses, who is hoping for a second term under the Liberal Party. As he enters their holding area, he first greets his fellow LP candidates  Alejano and Diokno. Ready? Ready? Aquino teases Diokno while mimicking a boxers stance. He shakes hands with Alejano, Bato, then Enrile.

Aquinos team, compared to the other senatoriables, is strikingly young. While others staff had a camera and a videographer, his had iPhones, ready to snap and upload on social media. As Aquinos portraits are being taken, one of his team members is on the sidelines, all set to upload an Instagram story.

Fifteen minutes before they go out on stage, they line up behind the curtains in alphabetical order  Alejano, Aquino, Dela Rosa, Diokno, Ejercito, Enrile, Osmena, and Tolentino. The people who have been surrounding them since they arrived  bodyguards, communications managers, campaign leaders, VIP supporters, assistants, makeup artists, videographers  gradually leave them to their own devices.

Mukhang hindi naman siya kinakabahan so hindi din ako kinakabahan, says dela Rosas communications manager. Kaya niya yan! says Aquinos team member. Nakakastress ano? adds Alejanos assistant.

Their names are called one by one, the crowd of supporters erupts to cheers and howls, and the senatorial hopefuls walk on stage, wave, and smile. The show has just begun.

While Bam Aquino's portraits are being taken, his team is armed with smartphones to document his every move. Photo by JILSON TIU

Dela Rosa stretches just right before the candidates are called to the stage. Photo by JILSON TIU

The eight senatorial hopefuls line behind the curtain before setting foot on stage. Photo by JILSON TIU

***

The supporters are seated across where their candidate is sitting onstage. On the right hand side of the theater are Alejanos supporters who chant his name for every time he answers questions. In the middle are Aquinos campaigners with orange bandanas wrapped around their foreheads. Beside them are dela Rosas team, largely in gray shirts, who applaud their chiefs antics on stage.

The sea of teal color a substantial portion of the middle area, with Dioknos children up front and center. Beside them are Osmenas allies in their light blue garb, behind are Ejercitos groups in orange, and on the left hand side of the theater is Tolentinos supporters  all of the cheers reverberating even more loudly as the event progresses.

Senators are asked of their stance on key issues; they talk about programs they stand by, projects they wish to achieve, and also the current Duterte administration. Some of the candidates are asked if President Duterte has done enough to curb corruption, to which dela Rosa replies with an impassioned speech of how the president has done and tried everything to fight this political disease.

Supporters of the senatorial candidates wearing their respective political colors. Photo by JILSON TIU

While dela Rosa explains his stance on the martial law extension in Mindanao, the former BuCor chief is met with uproar from a group in the audience, Never again! Never again! Never again to martial law! Photo by JL JAVIER

Supporters and fans of the politicians continue to cheer and howl, even as the senatorial candidates exit the stage. Photo by JILSON TIU

Members in the audience are not convinced, however, and as dela Rosa continues to describe a litany of Dutertes ways to fight corruption, he is jeered and heckled. In another question about his opinion on the martial law extension in Mindanao, the former BuCor chief is again met with uproar from a group in the audience, Never again! Never again! Never again to martial law!

As the program draws to a close, the candidates are called out one by one, until they form a line on stage  all smiles and waving to the audience. The supporters explode in a mishmash of cheers, claps, and cries, drowning out CNN Philippines Chief Correspondent Pia Hontiveros as she closes the show. The senatorial aspirants exit the stage, take off their lapels, and are met with their teams, assisting their every move and gesture.

Alejano, Diokno, and Osmena are greeted backstage with family and supporters; Enrile is held by his bodyguards as he makes his way out of the theater; Aquino and Ejercito proceed to shake the hands of the production team of the event; dela Rosa jokes around with his team as spectators take selfies with him; and Tolentino departs the venue, high-fiving a crew member.

The campaign period is yet to start but the candidates appear to have readied themselves for an arduous race.BEIRUT - The US-led anti-ISIS coalition on Monday denied that it hit Syrian government military positions in the region of Homs, as the Syrian government had claimed through state news agency SANA.

Pan-Arab media on Monday morning reported US-led coalition spokesman Sean Ryan said a senior member of ISIS, Abu al-Umarayn, was killed in a missile attack in the district of Sukhna.

The US maintained that the local jihadist leader was responsible for numerous killings, including the 2014 beheading of American aid worker Peter Kassig, who was kidnapped by ISIS in Syria in the months prior to his killing.

The area of Sukhna is located between the Euphrates and Palmyra and is partially controlled by ISIS.

However, it is also patrolled by pro-government forces made up of Syrian government soldiers, Russian soldiers, Iranians, and non-Syrian pro-Iranian militants.

BEIRUT - Inter-Yemeni talks initially scheduled in Sweden starting tomorrow could instead begin on December 6 or in the subsequent days, well-informed sources were quoted as saying by pan Arab daily al-Hayat, published by Saudi Arabia, which is involved in the Yemeni conflict.

The British foreign office and American sources over the past few days said that the talks would be taking place in Sweden this week.

Subsequently, pan Arab sources in contact both with Saudi Arabia and Houthi militias close to Iran mentioned December 4 as the likely date for the start of negotiations.

However, Swedish foreign ministry spokesman Patric Nillson told the English-edition of Swedish national radio that ''Sweden does not confirm or deny if and when the talks will take place'', stating however that ''preparations are underway for this''. Nillson stressed that the ''UN asked Sweden to help for the talks'' and that the northern country is providing the necessary aid.

In September, another round of UN-mediated talks in Geneva failed due to the absence of the delegation of Houthi insurgents. The insurgents accused Saudi Arabia and its allies of not allowing the Houthi delegation of travelling safely from Yemen to Geneva.

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Renowned French actor Gerard Depardieu has been granted a registration in the city of Novosibirsk, Russia, where he arrived to develop cultural and business projects.

The actor doesnt plan to permanently reside in the city, but will visit it regularly, a representative of Depardieu told TASS.

Gerard Depardieu was granted Russian citizenship back in 2013. He left France in 2012 when the government raised taxes for the wealthy up to 75%.

The French actor plans to make documentaries about Russia, and also eyes entrepreneurship in the food business.

Edited and translated by Stepan KocharyanYEREVAN, DECEMBER 3, ARMENPRESS. Some 40 members of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly from 19 countries are arriving this week in Yerevan to observe the 9 December Armenian parliamentary elections. Led by Special Co-ordinator of the OSCE short-term observer mission Peter Osusky (MP, Slovak Republic) and Head of the OSCE PA delegation Nahima Lanjri (MP, Belgium), the observers will participate in several days of meetings and briefings in Yerevan before deploying around the country for election day observation, ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the OSCE.

Osusky, who serves as the Head of the Delegation of the Slovak Republic to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, has observed numerous elections, including as Head of the OSCE PA observer delegation to the early presidential and parliamentary elections in Turkey, in June 2018. I cannot overstate the importance for the country of holding democratic elections that enjoy the trust of the Armenian people, said Osusky. As international observers we aim to contribute through a thorough assessment as to whether the elections are held in accordance with Armenia's democratic commitments. Lanjri is Head of the Delegation of Belgium to the OSCE PA and serves as Chair of the OSCE PAs Ad Hoc Committee on Migration. The dramatic events and change of power earlier this year set an important backdrop to these elections, and I'm pleased that the political arena will now move from the street to the ballot box, said Lanjri.

OSCE PA observers will be deploying throughout Armenia, along with OSCE/ODIHR observers, observers from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) and the European Parliament (EP). ODIHR has requested 250 short-term observers for the election. It is the 11th time the OSCE PA has deployed an election observation mission to Armenia since 1995. The elections will be assessed for their adherence to democratic commitments laid out in the OSCEs Copenhagen Document of 1990. Preliminary findings and conclusions of the election observation mission will be presented at a press conference in Yerevan on 10 December.

Edited and translated by Tigran SirekanyanTORONTO, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Victoria Gold Corp. (TSX.V-VIT) (Victoria or the Company) is pleased to report the assay results from the first hole received from the Nugget Zone tested during the 2018 Dublin Gulch exploration program. The newly discovered Raven Target was the prime focus of Nugget Zone exploration representing the previously un-tested southeastern contact margin of the Nugget intrusive stock. The Nugget Intrusive Stock is a highly prospective area representing the second largest known cretaceous intrusive body on the Dublin Gulch property (after the Dublin Gulch stock that hosts the Eagle Gold Deposit). The Nugget Zone is the latest target along the growing Potato Hills Trend. Highlighted results from the first Raven Target drillhole, NG18-006C include:

 101.5m of 0.57 g/t Au from 3.4 m  including 33.0m of 1.03 g/t Au from 61.8m  With 10.1m of 2.79 g/t Au from 61.8m

"Victoria remains focused on Eagle Gold Mine construction, however the Company believes the prospective nature of the greater Dublin Gulch claim Block will ultimately develop into a truly rare gold camp along the Potato Hills Trend through continued exploration efforts. stated John McConnell, President & CEO. In total, eight drillholes were collared in the Nugget Zone this year, with three at the newly discovered Raven Target. To produce this tenor of mineralization from a first-pass drill program is truly impressive and a testament to both the mineral endowment of Dublin Gulch and the validity of the Potato Hills Trend model. This is an exciting time for the Company and its shareholders, as Yukons next operating mine comes into production in 2019, and we intend to continue to demonstrate that Dublin Gulch has much more to offer beyond the Eagle Gold Deposit.

A Summary table of Nugget diamond drillhole NG18-006C intercepts is presented below:

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Length* (m) Gold (g/t) Silver (g/t) NG18-006C 3.4 207.6 204.2 0.32 1.44 including 3.4 104.9 101.5 0.57 2.27 and with 39.6 41.0 1.4 9.60 48.00 and including 61.8 94.8 33.0 1.03 3.46 with 61.8 78.0 16.2 1.76 1.54 or 61.8 71.9 10.1 2.79 8.60 including 61.8 63.0 1.1 12.10 28.8 and 93.8 104.9 11.1 0.64 2.57 including 93.8 94.8 1.0 4.95 22.00 and including 180.1 191.3 11.2 0.49 4.91 with 180.1 180.9 0.8 4.43 35.1

*True widths are unknown at this time

The Nugget Zone was assessed on a three-level basis this year, with two initial drillholes plus surface trenches targeting the northwest contact of the Nugget stock where a large coincident arsenic+gold+bismuth-in-soils anomaly (akin to the Olive-Shamrock Zone geochemical signature) was identified in soil geochemical surveys. Next, the central portion of the Nugget stock was tested for Eagle Gold Deposit-style sheeted vein related gold mineralization with three diamond drillholes and trenches. Lastly, a strong coincident arsenic+gold+bismuth-in-soils anomaly on the extreme southeast contact of the Nugget stock, the Raven Target, was tested with three diamond drillholes and a series of surface trenches. Surface gold mineralization was identified early in the Raven Target appraisal and geological mapping complemented by LIDAR structural interpretations assisted with final drillhole locations. Long, continuously mineralized intercepts such as the 101.5 meters of 0.57 g/t Au from surface in NG18-006C underscore the mineral potential of this new mineralized target.

2018 Dublin Gulch Exploration

A 3-month exploration campaign on Dublin Gulch was executed in 2018, with an initial focus of continued step-out and definition drilling at Olive-Shamrock-Spinach. Additionally, two other first-order targets along the 13 kilometer plus Potato Hills Trend, Bluto and Nugget, saw advanced exploration in the form of access construction, diamond drilling and surface trenches. In addition to their geological potential, these targets are each proximal to Eagle and now accessible by vehicle via a newly constructed network of access trails.

All told, the Spinach, Bluto, Nugget and regional targets tested during the 2018 exploration program combined for 29 diamond drillholes, totaling almost 5,400 meters; over 4,000 meters of mapped surfaces trenches from 38 distinct trenches and approximately 8,500 soil samples

2018 Exploration Program Highlights included:

 5,400 meters of exploration diamond drilling and over 4 kilometres of surface trench work spread among the three target areas: Spinach  11 diamond holes for 1,940 meters and 8 trenches for 607 meters

Bluto  10 diamond drillholes for 1,930 meters and 16 trenches 2,004 meters

Nugget  9 diamond drillholes for 1,520 meters and 13 trenches for 1,363 meters  8,470 soil geochemical samples from Bluto, Nugget and the regional VBW and Hawk targets  6,600 meters of 2D Induced Polarization lines, 192 line-kilometer ground-based magnetometer and 172 line-kilometres of VLF surveys plus downhole geophysical investigations at Nugget

A plan map and drill hole section to accompany this news release are available on the Company website. www.vitgoldcorp.com

About Nugget Zone

The Nugget Zone, the second largest Cretaceous granodiorite intrusive body on the Dublin Gulch property (second only the Dublin Gulch stock that hosts the Eagle Gold Mine), consists of a 2.2 kilometer by 1.2 kilometer, medium to coarse grained granodiorite stock of the Cretaceous age Tombstone Plutonic Suite. The Nugget stock is hosted in the Earn group and the Keno Hill Quartzite. Coincident arsenic + gold soil anomalies occur along the contact margins of the Nugget stock. This intrusive plus is akin to the Eagle Deposit, and has been the subject of limited historic exploration work due to the inaccessibility of the area.

Historically, a defined gold-in-soils geochemical anomaly that graded from trace up to 1.12 g/t in soils has been defined along with trench samples that graded from trace up to 5m of to 2.38 g/t Au and grab samples from trace up to 1.35 g/t Au.

During the 2017 and 2018 programs an approximately 8.5 kilometer long access trail network was established and has, for the first time ever, allowed vehicular access to this high priority target that up until this season had never been tested by advanced mineral exploration techniques.

A grab sample collected in 2017 from a vein uncovered during Nugget access construction consisted of primarily galena and returned values of 1,440 g/t Ag, 63.44 % Pb, 1.435 % Zn. Another 2017 grab sample from a vein consisting of primarily sulphosalts (jamesonite) returned values of 0.515 g/t Au, 82 g/t Ag 20.3% Pb, 8.34 % Sb, and 4.2 % As. Lastly, a 2017 grab sample from an historic trench on the Nugget stock returned 0.202 g/t Au, 3.7 g/t Ag and 1.3 % As. In 2018, several more notable veins and mineralized exposures were sampled, assays are pending.

Mineralization encountered thus far consists of polymetallic veins occurring within the host rocks peripheral to the Nugget stock as well as disseminated arsenopyrite within in the granodiorite.

The bulk of the Nugget Target, including those areas of highly anomalous gold+arsenic in soils and within historic trenches has never been drilled and largely assessed only for tungsten mineralization potential. With access and camp facilities established at Nugget, the Raven Target is likely to be a high priority for 2019 exploration efforts.

About the Dublin Gulch Property

Victoria Gold's 100%-owned Dublin Gulch gold property is situated in the central Yukon Territory, Canada, approximately 375 kilometers north of the capital city of Whitehorse, and approximately 85 kilometers from the town of Mayo. The Property is accessible by road year-round, and is located within Yukon Energy's electrical grid. The Company has constructed and maintains a 400 person all-season camp at the project site.

The Property covers an area of approximately 555 square kilometers, and is the site of the Company's Eagle Gold Deposit. The Eagle Gold Mine is expected to be Yukon's next operating gold mine and, between the Eagle and Olive deposits, include Proven and Probable Reserves of 2.7 million ounces of gold from 123 million tonnes of ore with a grade of 0.67 grams of gold per tonne, as outlined in a National Instrument 43-101 feasibility study. The NI 43-101 Mineral Resource for the Eagle and Olive deposits has been estimated to host 191 million tonnes averaging 0.65 grams of gold per tonne, containing 4.0 million ounces of gold in the "Measured and Indicated" category, inclusive of Proven and Probable Reserves, and a further 24 million tonnes averaging 0.61 grams of gold per tonne, containing 0.5 million ounces of gold in the "Inferred" category.

Analytical Method

All exploration drill core from the 2018 program was logged, photographed, split for shipment at Victoria Golds Bluto Exploration Camp. Once split, half samples were placed back in the core boxes with the other half of split samples sealed in poly bags with one part of a three-part sample tag inserted within. Victorias Bluto Exploration Camp where they were subsequently delivered to the Whitehorse, Yukon, sample preparation facility of Bureau Veritas Minerals. There, samples were crushed with prepared samples sent to Bureau Veritas Minerals, Vancouver, B.C. laboratory facilities.

Bureau Veritas Minerals of Vancouver, B.C. subsequently pulverized all samples and utilized the aqua regia digestion ICP-MS 36-element AQ200 analytical package with FA450 50-gram Fire Assay with AAS finish for gold on all samples. A comprehensive system of standards, blanks and field duplicates was implemented for the 2018 Dublin Gulch drilling programs and were monitored as chemical assay data became available.

Qualified Person

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Paul D. Gray, P.Geo., as the Qualified Person. For additional information relating to the Property, refer to the technical report entitled NI 43-101 Feasibility Study Technical Report for the Eagle Gold Project, Yukon Territory, Canada, with an effective date of September 12, 2016, which is available on the Companys profile at www.sedar.com.

Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange, nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This press release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this discussion, other than statements of historical facts, that address future exploration drilling, exploration activities, anticipated metal production, internal rate of return, estimated ore grades, commencement of production estimates and projected exploration and capital expenditures (including costs and other estimates upon which such projections are based) and events or developments that the Company expects, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include metal prices, exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

For Further Information Contact:

John McConnell

President & CEO

Victoria Gold Corp

Tel: 416-866-8800

Fax: 416-866-8801TORONTO, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Galane Gold Ltd. (Galane Gold or the Company) (TSX-V: GG) is pleased to announce that it has placed the material orders required for the processing plant upgrade according to its plan to recommence production at its Galaxy Project by April 2019.

Galane has already refurbished the existing 15,000 tonnes per month (tpm) processing plant at Galaxy and the upgrade will increase the plant capacity to 30,000 tpm.

The Company advises that it is not basing its decision to expand the throughput capacity of the Galaxy mines processing plant to 30,000 tpm on a feasibility study of mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability of production at such levels and as a result there is increased uncertainty. These risks, among others, include areas that are analyzed in more detail in a feasibility study, such as applying economic analysis to resources and reserves and environmental and community impacts.

The processing plant upgrade allows for the refurbishment of the Galaxy crushing plant and includes the installation of a new jaw and cone crusher which will be able to crush up to 90 tonnes per hour (tph). This will provide for ample maintenance time, even at maximum mill throughput, and also accommodate future expansion. The consistency of the mineralized feed to the plant will be improved by the installation of an apron feeder under the ROM bin.(1)

Initially the existing mill and a single stream flotation will be used to operate up to 15,000 tpm while the new 3.6m x 6.7m ball mill and second flotation stream are being erected. Once the new mill is completed both flotation streams will be brought on line to produce concentrate. In addition, a new reagent makeup and dosing plant will be installed to accurately mix and dose flotation chemicals into the circuit.(1)

The concentrate will then be thickened, initially in one 4.2m high rate thickener, while a second unit is installed to cater for a 30,000 tpm throughput. Two 1250mm x1250mm automatic side bar hydraulic filter presses will be installed to dewater the concentrate to approximately 10% moisture prior to bagging, containerization and dispatch.(1)

The following material orders have been made:

Jaw crusher - NMS JC850 jaw crusher, feed intake 850mm x 510mm, max feed size 450mm, expected discharge size 0mm to 75mm, throughput 65 to 95 tph.

Cone crusher - NMS CC 100 EC cone crusher, maximum feed size 135mm, close size setting 10mm to 13mm, product size 80% minus 16mm, throughput 48 to 89 tph.

Reconditioned ball mill - Size 3.6m x 6.7m, motor size 1700kW, feed size 80% at minus 16mm, product size 80% passing 106 micron, design throughput 50 tph.

Concentrate filtration - 2 side bar hydraulic filter press units, 1250mm x 1250mm, automated electric operation, 200 m2 filter area, 76 filter chambers, design tonnage 8.5 tph, product moisture 10-11%.

Furthermore, preparations for mining have commenced with the contractor having mobilised to site to start the development and first fit work required to recommence underground operations in the new year.

Galane Gold CEO, Nick Brodie commented: With the completion of the funding requirements for our facility with Barak, Galane is now in a position that it can progress to the restarting of the operations at Galaxy.

The work done by Galane while Galaxy was in care and maintenance has resulted in a detailed scope of work for the plant upgrade which we have had verified by independent third parties. Galane has also followed the same process for the restart of underground operations.

This represents only the first step of our resurrection of the Galaxy mine and we will shortly commence a study with the aim being to double production and lower the all-in cost as a result of increased economies of scale.

About Galane Gold

Galane Gold is an un-hedged gold producer and explorer with mining operations and exploration tenements in Botswana and South Africa. Galane Gold is a public company and its shares are quoted on the TSX Venture Exchange and the Botswana Stock Exchange under the symbol GG. Galane Golds management team is comprised of senior mining professionals with extensive experience in managing mining and processing operations and large-scale exploration programmes. Galane Gold is committed to operating at world-class standards and is focused on the safety of its employees, respecting the environment, and contributing to the communities in which it operates.

Notes:

(1) This is forward-looking information and is based on a number of assumptions. See Cautionary Notes.

Cautionary Notes

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this press release, including, without limitation, those regarding the Companys future financial position and results of operations, strategy, proposed acquisitions, plans, objectives, goals and targets, and any statements preceded by, followed by or that include the words believe, expect, aim, intend, plan, continue, will, may, would, anticipate, estimate, forecast, predict, project, seek, should or similar expressions or the negative thereof, are forward-looking statements. These statements are not historical facts but instead represent only the Companys expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual results may differ materially from what is expressed, implied or forecasted in such forward-looking statements.

Additional factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially include, but are not limited to: the Companys dependence on two mineral projects; gold price volatility; risks associated with the conduct of the Companys mining activities in Botswana and South Africa; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to the Companys exploration, development and mining activities being situated in Botswana and South Africa; risks relating to reliance on the Companys management team and outside contractors; risks regarding mineral resources and reserves; the Companys inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks arising from the Companys fair value estimates with respect to the carrying amount of mineral interests; mining tax regimes; risks arising from holding derivative instruments; the Companys need to replace reserves depleted by production; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; lack of infrastructure; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; health risks in Africa; the Companys interactions with surrounding communities and artisanal miners; the Companys ability to successfully integrate acquired assets; risks related to restarting production; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; development of the Companys exploration properties into commercially viable mines; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; lack of liquidity for shareholders of the Company; risks related to the market perception of junior gold companies; and litigation risk.Management provides forward-looking statements because it believes they provide useful information to investors when considering their investment objectives and cautions investors not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors contained herein, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect subsequent information, events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by law.

Information of a technical and scientific nature that forms the basis of the disclosure in the press release has been approved by Kevin Crossling Pr. Sci. Nat., MAusIMM., SACNASP and Business Development Manager for Galane Gold, and a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For further information please contact:

Nick Brodie

CEO, Galane Gold Ltd.

+ 44 7905089878

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.GalaneGold.com667,000 ounces of gold (Au) and 2.34 million ounces of silver (Ag) in the Indicated category

1.39 million ounces of gold and 4.65 million ounces of silver in the Inferred category

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ascot Resources Ltd (TSX.V: AOT; OTCQX: AOTVF) (Ascot or the Company) is pleased to announce an updated resource estimate for its flagship Premier Project (including the formerly separate Premier, Dilworth and Silver Coin properties) in British Columbias Golden Triangle. The resource includes high-grade zones from the Premier and Northern Lights, Big Missouri (including North Star, Province and Unicorn), Martha Ellen, Dilworth and Silver Coin areas (see Figure 1). The outlines of these zones were modeled with a potential high-grade underground scenario in mind.

Ascot management had previously stated its strategy towards developing high-grade underground resources with the announcement of its maiden underground resource on May 10, 2018 in the southern part of the property where the existing drill spacing was close enough to define underground resources. The 2018 drill program was designed to target high-grade areas at the Big Missouri ridge and define zones that could be modeled at the same cut-off grade that was utilized at Premier/Northern Lights. Additional drill holes were planned at the western edge of the Premier/Northern Lights area. The increase in the resource from that particular area is due to successful extension of mineralization towards the west and northwest. The resource reported in this release now reflects all areas with sufficient drill spacing for resource modeling on the property.

Derek White, President and CEO of Ascot Resources commented, Management worked hard to develop a series of resources in 2018 and I am very pleased to announce a significant increase to our high-grade resources during the year. This is an outstanding achievement for the company in a very short time frame. These results combined with our efforts to identify new targets for exploration utilizing Induced Polarization geophysics and improved gold recoveries from metallurgical test work, provide for a very optimistic outlook for Ascot. We will continue to focus on developing our engineering studies around three spatially separate potential mining areas diversifying the production risk. Our principal business objective is to maximize the utilization of the existing infrastructure, specifically with regard to the mill throughput and I remain very optimistic about Ascots future success.

Table 1 shows the Indicated and Inferred resources for the individual areas within the Premier Project. A major focus of the 2019 drill program will be directed toward converting resources from the inferred into the indicated category. The areas that are anticipated to be accessed early in a restart scenario will be targeted preferentially in order to generate greater certainty for mine planning going forward.

In August of 2018, the Company engaged Mr. David Rennie, P.Eng. of RPA Inc (RPA), Ms. Sue Bird, P.Eng. of Moose Mountain Technical Services (Moose Mountain) and Mr. Sean Butler, P.Geo. to prepare an updated Mineral Resource estimate for the Premier Project. Mr. Rennie is responsible for the resource estimate of the Premier/Northern Lights zones while Ms. Bird is responsible for the Big Missouri, Silver Coin, Martha Ellen and Dilworth areas, with contributions from Mr Butler in the Silver Coin area.

All areas are being considered as the basis for ongoing engineering studies that are evaluating the viability of a restart scenario for the Premier mill.

The resource estimate for the Premier Project is shown at a variety of cut-off grades ranging from 2.5g/t AuEq (see note 4 of Table 1 for gold equivalence calculation) to 5g/t AuEq in Table 2 (Indicated Mineral Resources) and Table 3 (Inferred Mineral Resources).

Table 1: The undiluted and in-situ Mineral Resource estimate for the Premier Project reported at an underground cut-off grade of 3.5g/t AuEq.

Total Premier Project Mineral Resources

Class Deposit Tonnes

000's Average Grades Contained oz (000's) Au g/t Ag g/t AuEq Au Ag AuEq Indicated Premier/Northern Lights 1,250 6.97 30.2 7.18 281 1,220 289 Indicated Big Missouri 539 8.19 20.5 8.34 142 355 144 Indicated Silver Coin 859 8.01 20.5 8.16 221 566 225 Indicated Martha Ellen 130 5.47 48.0 5.80 23 201 24 Total Indicated All Above 2,780 7.46 26.2 7.64 667 2,340 682

Inferred Premier/Northern Lights 1,740 5.95 24.2 6.12 333 1,350 342 Inferred Big Missouri 2,250 8.25 18.4 8.38 596 1,330 605 Inferred Silver Coin 1,160 7.78 22.1 7.93 289 821 295 Inferred Martha Ellen 653 6.12 34.3 6.36 129 720 134 Inferred Dilworth 235 6.13 56.0 6.51 46 424 49 Total Inferred All Above 6,030 7.18 24.0 7.35 1,390 4,650 1,420

Notes for Table 1:

1) CIM (2014) definitions were followed for Mineral Resources.

2) Mineral Resources are estimated at a cut-off grade of 3.5g/t AuEq.

3) Mineral Resources are estimated using long-term metal prices of US$1,350/oz Au and US$20/oz Ag.

4) Gold equivalence was calculated using a ratio of 65:1 Ag:Au and Ag recovery of 45.2%.

5) For Premier/Northern Lights, an average bulk density of 2.84 t/m3 was used. For all other zones, the average bulk density was 2.80 t/m3.

6) For Premier/Northern Lights, the zones were interpreted using a minimum true width of 2.5 m for steep dipping zones and 3.0 m for moderate to flat dipping zones. For all other zones, a minimum true width of 2.5 m was used.

7) Numbers may not sum due to rounding.

Table 2: Grade sensitivity analysis of Premier Project Mineral Resources in the Indicated category with base case at a cut-off of 3.5g/t AuEq.

Cut-Off

(g/t AuEq) Tonnage

(t) Au

(g/t) Ag

(g/t) AuEq

(g/t) Au

(koz) Ag

(koz) AuEq

(koz) 5.0 1,720 9.58 29.6 9.78 530 1,640 541 4.5 2,000 8.88 28.3 9.08 571 1,820 583 4.0 2,350 8.16 27.2 8.35 618 2,060 632 3.5 2,780 7.46 26.2 7.64 667 2,340 682 3.0 3,310 6.76 25.1 6.93 720 2,670 739 2.5 3,950 6.09 23.8 6.26 773 3,020 794

Table 3: Grade sensitivity analysis of Premier Project Mineral Resources in the Inferred category with base case at a cut-off of 3.5g/t AuEq.

Cut-Off

(g/t AuEq) Tonnage

(t) Au

(g/t) Ag

(g/t) AuEq

(g/t) Au

(koz) Ag

(koz) AuEq

(koz) 5.0 3,610 9.31 25.0 9.48 1,081 2,900 1,100 4.5 4,230 8.62 24.6 8.79 1,170 3,340 1,200 4.0 5,050 7.89 24.2 8.06 1,280 3,930 1,310 3.5 6,030 7.18 24.0 7.35 1,390 4,650 1,420 3.0 7,110 6.56 23.4 6.73 1,500 5,350 1,540 2.5 8,520 5.91 22.6 6.07 1,620 6,190 1,660

Notes for Tables 2 and 3:

1) CIM (2014) definitions were followed for Mineral Resources.

2) Mineral Resources are estimated at a cut-off grade of 3.5g/t AuEq.

3) Mineral Resources are estimated using long-term metal prices of US$1,350/oz Au and US$20/oz Ag.

4) Gold equivalence was calculated using a ratio of 65:1 Ag:Au and Ag recovery of 45.2%.

5) For Premier/Northern Lights, an average bulk density of 2.84 t/m3 was used. For all other zones, the average bulk density was 2.80 t/m3.

6) For Premier/Northern Lights, the zones were interpreted using a minimum true width of 2.5 m for steep dipping zones and 3.0 m for moderate to flat dipping zones. For all other zones, a minimum true width of 2.5 m was used.

7) Numbers may not sum due to rounding.

In accordance with National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101), an updated technical report for the Premier Project will be filed on SEDAR and the Companys web site within 45 calendar days of this disclosure.

The Company is also pleased to announce that an investor conference call with President and CEO, Derek White will be held on Monday, December 3, 2018 at 1:15pm Pacific time and 4:15pm Eastern time. Mr. White will discuss the updated resource and next steps for the Company going forward. A question and answer period will follow the presentation.

To participate, please dial: Canada/USA toll-free 1-800-319-4610 or International toll +1-604-638-5340 and request join to the Ascot Resources Conference Call. Participants please dial in 5 to 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. A presentation will be posted on Ascots website www.ascotgold.com under Investors/Presentations before the start of the call.

For more information about the Company, please refer to the Companys profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Qualified Persons

Each of David Rennie, P. Eng. of RPA, Sue Bird, P. Eng. of Moose Mountain Technical Services and Sean Butler, P. Geo. is an independent qualified person (as defined in NI 43-101) responsible for this mineral resource estimate. RPA and Moose Mountain, and Mr. Butler have conducted independent data verification relating to drill hole location and orientation, sampling methodology, assay QA/QC and database integrity and found the results satisfactory. RPA, Moose Mountain, and Mr. Butler acknowledge that they have reviewed the technical content presented in this news release and approved the written disclosure.

John Kiernan, P. Eng., Chief Operating Officer of the Company is the Companys Qualified Person (QP) as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF

ASCOT RESOURCES LTD.

Derek C. White, President and CEO

For further information contact:

Kristina Howe

VP, Investor Relations

778-725-1060 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

About Ascot Resources Ltd.

Ascot Resources is a gold and silver focused exploration company with a portfolio of advanced and grassroots projects in the Golden Triangle region of British Columbia. The companys flagship Premier Project is a near-term high-grade advanced exploration project with large upside potential. Ascot is poised to be the next Golden Triangle producer with an experienced and successful exploration, development and operating team, coupled with a highly regarded major shareholder.

The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

All statements, trend analysis and other information contained in this press release relative to markets about anticipated future events or results constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as seek, anticipate, believe, plan, estimate, expect and intend and statements that an event or result may, will, should, could or might occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including, without limitation, statements regarding: the anticipated use of proceeds of the Offering, the Companys 2018 drill program, and the exploration and mineralization potential of the Premier property, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to business and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results of operations to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Ascots expectations include fluctuations in commodity prices and currency exchange rates; uncertainties relating to interpretation of drill results and the geology, continuity and grade of mineral deposits; the need for cooperation of government agencies and native groups in the exploration and development of properties and the issuance of required permits; the need to obtain additional financing to develop properties and uncertainty as to the availability and terms of future financing; the possibility of delay in exploration or development programs and uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones; and uncertainty as to timely availability of permits and other governmental approvals. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management at the date the statements are made. Ascot does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.French lawmakers on Monday approved the creation of a national prosectors office to combat terror, a key justice reform to boost the countrys response to the threat of attacks.

Under the legislation, passed at the first reading on a show of hands, the Parquet National Antiterroriste (PNAT) will start operating no later than January 1, 2020.

Justice Minister Nicole Belloubet praised the planned new body as a strike force against the ever-present threat of terrorism, three years after Frances deadliest attack claimed 130 lives in Paris.

The new prosecutors office will have institutional visibility and all the necessary capacity to form relationships on the European level, Belloubet said.

Currently, the investigation of terrorism cases falls under the public prosecutor of Paris, which also deals with crimes against humanity, war crimes, torture, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

The PNAT will be the second specialised prosecuting office after one set up to combat financial crimes in 2013.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 2)  Former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile on Sunday warned that the Philippines may have a lot to lose if the planned joint exploration with China did not push through.

The 94-year-old veteran politician who is seeking a comeback to the Senate is pushing for negotiations on a proposed joint oil and gas development with China. A signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the project states that the exploration "will be without prejudice to the respective legal positions of both governments"  amid the long-standing maritime row in the South China Sea. The global waterway is believed to be rich in resources.

"The only option available to us is to talk to China since they are willing to talk to us and then we talk about the terms and conditions of the exploration of natural gas and oil in the West Philippine Sea for the benefit of the Filipino people," Enrile said during CNN Philippines' The Filipino Votes: Senatorial Forum.

He said government officials should do this "instead of using emotion or braggadocio or whatever or politics in order to thwart a possible beneficial good that will come to the Filipino people through an exploration of natural wealth in the South China Sea."

In the same forum, Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano pointed out that the government was risking the country's sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea in entering into various deals, including loans, with China.

"Let us all remember that whatever relationship we have with China right now, whether political or economic, lahat ito ay may koneksyon sa West Philippine Sea because they are using this strategy of pushing us to the edge in order for us to agree with what they want," Alejano said.

China stands by its sweeping claim to almost the entire South China Sea, rejecting the July 2016 arbitration ruling that largely recognized the Philippines' sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea. These are areas in the South China Sea that lie within the country's 200-mile exclusive economic zone.

President Rodrigo Duterte has sought friendlier ties with China but promised to bring the landmark ruling up with the East Asian giant within his term which ends 2022.

Enrile said, "We have only two options on this matter. Either we use diplomacy  talk to China  or we use force. What force do we have to deal with China? We do not have."

Another candidate, Former Senator Serge Osmena, said he there was nothing wrong with joint exploration as long as the sharing of revenues was 60-40, in favor of the Philippines.

"If China agrees to 60-40, by all means let's do it. No problem," he said.

However, he warned against the use of Chinese seismic ships in the exploration. He said ships should come from a third party.

"If that seismic ship is Chinese and the letters are all Chinese, hindi nila sasabihin sa atin kung ano ang nangyayari (they will not say what's happening) so we have to use a seismic ship from a third country like England, Australia or the United States, so that they will be able to tell us what they found," Osmena advised.

The MOU on oil and gas development, along with key agreements on infrastructure, and telecommunications, were among the documents signed during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to the country in November.310 Shares Share

The oncologist had prescribed Xgeva hoping it would strengthen her bones while also delaying the progression of Angela Kahns breast cancer. But Kahn (a pseudonym) couldnt get over the price of the drug. Before the oncologist had a chance to ask how she was feeling, she blurted out that the medication cost $15,000 a shot. Thats crazy, the oncologist replied, continuing by saying the price fits right in with the rest of the insanity of U.S. health care pricing. At that price, Kahn concluded, I dont think I should get it.

The oncologist assured her Youre getting it, and they both laughed.

Not that either thought Xgevas price was a laughing matter. In fact, like many medications, Xgeva costs much more in the U.S. than in any other developed countries, with a single injection costing more than $2,000.

Theres too many reasons for these high prices to delve into them in the space of a short essay. Instead, I want to show how the insanity of American health care prices played out in this one, real oncology appointment. (Note: The appointment was recorded by a marketing company, Verilogue Inc., with the permission of the doctor and patient. I gained access to an anonymized transcript of the appointment for a research project approved by the Duke University IRB.)

After assuring Kahn that shed remain on the Xgeva, her oncologist explained how he believes health care pricing plays out in the U.S. Its totally outrageous. What usually happens is the hospital or the clinic will charge 300 times what they think they can get, and the insurance company pays 1/20th of the original.

Oh, OK, Kahn replied, with a touch of confusion.

So its just a game, its a totally horrible game, the oncologist continued. Thats crazy, Kahn reiterated.

The oncologist tried out an analogy: Itd be like going to your car mechanic and them saying Well I think its going to be $17,000 to get this fixed, and you say Well how about $149?'

Both Kahn and her doctor were laughing at this point. But Kahns oncologist wasnt done expanding on the topic. Hed eventually get to Kahns medical situation. But in the meantime, he felt compelled to explain why he prescribed Xgeva despite its price: Its just gotten so out of control. Fortunately, Im very sequestered from all these details. I usually have no idea [what things cost] unless patients come in and say.

Well, I saw the bill, Kahn continued, and I said to my sister, You know, in good conscience, how can I spend that kind of money? and she said, Just shut up. How many years did you pay insurance? And you went to a doctor once a year.' Kahn wasnt considering forgoing Xgeva because of her own out-of-pocket costs, but simply at the horror of spending anyones money on such an expensive medicine. It just didnt seem right. But her sister was trying to remind her of how much money she had spent on insurance over the years without receiving much medical care in return.

At this point, the oncologist chimed in, with more reasons why Kahn should take the drug: The insurance companies are making so much money right now, they cant even explain themselves to Congress. And theyre getting called to Congress to explain their profit. Theyre outrageous. Theyre making more money than they ever have.

So dont feel bad? Kahn asked. The oncologist replied by telling her, They are denying more and more and more and more, while theyre making more and more and more and more. Its just aggravating. A lot of those CEOs . . . United Healthcare, I think he made $124 million last year.

Oh gosh, wow, her daughter, who was also present at the appointment, replied.

At that point, the oncologist returned to the business at hand, of discussing Kahns treatment options. Ill be right back and see if we can get the wheels rolling to get the Faslodex today. Then, assessing his own words, the oncologist remembered: And sometimes insurance authorization can get in the way of that. Otherwise, Im sure we could do it.

Kahns cancer treatments werent stalled by the high price of Xgeva, or presumably the insurance company blocking more use of the Faslodex. But her faith in the U.S. health care system appears to have been undermined. Her oncologist seemed bitter about the private insurance companies he saw as benefiting from all the money passing back and forth between their customers and health care providers.

Im not telling this story to sort out whos making too much or too little money in the U.S. health care system, nor to debate whether the price of oncology treatments is too high.

Instead, Im trying to draw attention to an overlooked cost of our inscrutably expensive health care system. Patients and providers are losing trustin pharmaceutical companies and in third-party payers. Probably in the whole system. Other outpatient clinic interactions Ive studied reveal doctors and patients complaining about the complexities of Medicare and Medicaid, or about the greediness of HMOs or local hospital systems. All these complaints, all these concerns, draw doctors and patients away from the reasons they find themselves together in an exam roomto identify and address patients health problems.

Patients pay a price for the inexplicably high cost of U.S. health care, not just in the size of their monthly insurance premiums or the expense of their copays and deductibles. They also experience the harm of losing trust in our nations health care system.

Peter Ubel is a physician and behavioral scientist who blogs at his self-titled site, Peter Ubel and can be reached on Twitter @PeterUbel. He is the author of Critical Decisions: How You and Your Doctor Can Make the Right Medical Choices Together. This article originally appeared in Forbes.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com5G is already here, but you can't do much to access those super-fast speeds unless you live in a specific place with a particular piece of technology. That's about to change.

Samsung and Verizon (VZ) jointly announced Monday the companies would sell a 5G smartphone in the first half of 2019. Although they didn't say which phone would support 5G, Samsung usually announces its latest Galaxy S smartphone in the spring.

The mystery phone may not be the first 5G smartphone to hit the market. Unsure of other companies' plans, Verizon and Samsung hedged by saying it would be "one of the first." But Samsung is by far the largest smartphone maker in the world, and its decision to launch a 5G smartphone means the rest of the market won't lag far behind. If smartphone companies want to stay competitive in the coming years, 5G will soon be a must-have.

That still doesn't solve the problem of network availability. Verizon's 5G network currently exists in only a small handful of cities. AT&T (T) also has 5G networks up and running in just seven cities. Sprint (S) and T-Mobile (TMUS) lag behind. Verizon and AT&T lack specific rollout plans or time frames, but they plan to bring many more cities online in 2019 and 2020. (CNN is owned by AT&T.)

Although 5G may not be much of a selling point now, it will be once it's pervasive enough. 5G promises much faster speeds than 4G. How much faster is up for debate (Verizon says "many times faster"), but lab tests have yielded speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G. When millions of people are on the network, though, that tends to slow speeds down a bit. Industry estimates put 5G at around 10 times faster than 4G in real-life scenarios.

That's where 5G's ultra-low latency technology really comes in handy. Today's networks take a split second to send and receive communications between your smartphone and the network. A split second isn't much, but your phone could make dozens of request each time you tap on your screen. 5G gets that network communication time down to virtually zero.

5G is exciting technology for smartphone owners, but it's potentially much more important for broadband customers and businesses.

Verizon already sells 5G home internet service as a replacement for wired internet connections for homes  it even comes with free YouTube TV as a throw-in. 5G potentially allows companies like Verizon and AT&T to become broadband competitors in every city  something they were unable to do with FiOS and U-Verse.

5G's low latency can allow self-driving cars to process all the information they need to make life-or-death decisions in the blink of an eye. And the health care industry believes 5G could help power the next generation of telemedicine and robotic surgeries.

Before all of that can happen, however, wireless companies have tens of billions of dollars worth of infrastructure to upgrade.

That's a big commitment, but they've made good on their promises before. For example, Verizon also offered the world's first 4G smartphone, the HTC Thunderbolt, which debuted in March 2011. It similarly could only be used in certain areas as Verizon built out its 4G network, and the world collectively rolled its eyes. Yet other smartphone manufacturers quickly followed suit, and 4G modems became standard equipment on smartphones by the end of 2011.LEBANON, Ore. -- An Albany man was arrested Friday after police said he targeted two Lebanon businesses days before, allegedly stealing items and causing damage.

Mason Monroe, 25, was lodged in the Linn County Jail.

Lebanon police said on Nov. 26 Monroe cut through a chain link fence and entered a secured service yard and took gas and tools, valued over $1,000, from company vehicles.

He caused an estimated $750 worth of damage, police said.

Servco and Professional Mechanical were the victims of the crimes.

Police identified a suspect vehicle on video surveillance and located it on Nov. 30, arresting Monroe.

Monroe was charged with first-degree felony theft, second-degree criminal mischief and multiple counts of unlawful entry into a motor vehicle. Police said additional charges are expected.

Officers said they recovered some of the stolen items, and they were returned. Police said other items were also located, and officers are searching for their owners.OTTER ROCK, Ore. -- A Corvallis doctor died while surfing near Devils Punchbowl this weekend.

Oregon State Police said at about 3:30 Saturday afternoon, they received a 911 call reporting that Toren Stearns, 30, was in water and in distress near Otter Rock State Park, just north of Newport.

Police said the U.S. Coast Guard dispatched a cutter boat and rescue helicopter to assist in the rescue. A local surfer also went into the water to help. A rescue swimmer recovered Stearns and brought him onto the beach.

Stearns was transported by helicopter to Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital, where he later died.

Stearns had left his dog on the beach while he was surfing and the animal was cared for by the Lincoln County Animal Shelter while notification to his family was made.

Oregon State Police was assisted by Depoe Bay Fire and Rescue, U.S. Coast Guard, Lincoln County Sheriffs Office and Lincoln County Animal Shelter.This blatant misinformation can now be corrected and Irrfan has very clearly stated that he has no plans of returning to India anytime soon.

While we are all very happy to see another ailing actor Sonali Bendre return home for what she so lucidly describes as a "happy interval", Irrfan is not coming to India any time in the near future.

There were reports that Irrfan would be returning for Diwali, then post-Diwali. Some got even more helpful and provided with a date on which Irrfan was returning, a date that the ailing actor was unaware of.

This blatant misinformation can now be corrected and Irrfan has very clearly stated that he has no plans of returning to India anytime soon.

Says Irrfan, "I am still waiting for all the tests to be done and their results. I haven't planned as yet for India."MASON CITY, Iowa  A summer road rage incident leads to a winter guilty plea.

Theodore Robert Schultz, 63 of Mason City, pleaded guilty Monday to threatened intimidation with a dangerous weapon and OWI-1st offense. He was charged after Mason City law enforcement says he got a gun from his vehicle on June 24 and began walking toward and yelling at other people.

Schultz was reportedly angry about being passed on the street. Court documents state he had a blood alcohol level of .156 at the time of this arrest.

Schultz is scheduled to be sentenced on January 28, 2019.OSAGE, Iowa  One of the men accused of damaging a cabin at Pinicon Alders Wildlife area is sentenced.

Jon Dales Crews, 27 of Waltham, Minnesota, pleaded guilty to 3rd degree criminal mischief for the March 13 incident where authorities say he smashed into the cabin with a vehicle, destroying a handicap ramp and knocking the cabin off two of its supports. Crews was also accused of running over several signs, damaging a barb wire fence, and destroying a wooden outhouse.

Hes been sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay $13,174.94 in restitution.

Ryan Root, 29 of Riceville, is scheduled to stand trial Wednesday in Mitchell County District Court for accessory to a felony and obstructing prosecution. Hes accused of helping Crews tow his damaged vehicle from the scene and refusing to cooperate with law enforcement in their investigation.MASON CITY, Iowa  Selling drugs to a confidential informant results in a deferred judgment for a Mason City man.

Brett William Funk, 29, entered a guilty plea to a controlled substance violence. The North Central Iowa Narcotics Task Force says Funk delivered 1.42 grams of methamphetamine to an informant on December 6, 2017.

Funk has now been sentenced to three years of probation. If he successfully completes it, this conviction will be removed from his record.MASON CITY, Iowa - All around town on Sunday, people were hard at work, using shovels, snow blowers or plows to get their walkways, driveways, parking lots and streets clear from the weekend snowfall.

People like Kim McVay are using a shovel to clear their sidewalk and deck.

"Doing it the old fashioned way today. There's only a couple inches so we figured not too bad."

The consistency of the snow provides her a little help.

"We've had where we get an ice pack on top of it, and then it's a lot more back straining I guess is what you call it."

For others like Randy Mitchell, a snow blower will get the job done, as well a plow attached to a truck. He adds that the consistency is making it easier to move it.

"Snow's just wet and heavy."

With whatever way you choose to get rid of the snow, use safety.

"Knowing your limits. If you've got back problems or something like that, you don't want to be out lifting this. Hire somebody that's younger and stronger or that has equipment or whatever. Get it done, but get it done safely."

In Mason City, property owners are required to remove snow from their sidewalks within 48 hours or face a fine. In Forest City, property owners have to remove snow and ice accumulations within 24 hours. In addition, as of Sunday night, Mason City's alternate side parking and emergency snow route ordinances are still in effect.NEVADA, Iowa (AP)  A January sentencing is scheduled for a registered sex offender in Iowa who prosecutors say has sexually abused more children.

Story County court records say 30-year-old Michael Ferguson entered Alford pleas Thursday to five counts of lascivious acts with a child. In an Alford plea, a person doesn't admit guilt but acknowledges there is enough evidence for a likely conviction.

Prosecutors committed to dropping a sex abuse charge in exchange for Ferguson's pleas. His sentencing is set for Jan. 14 at the courthouse in Nevada (nuh-VAYE'-duh). The crimes occurred during a camping trip in Colo, Iowa.

Ferguson was convicted of assault with the intent to commit sexual abuse of a teenage boy in 2008.ROCHESTER, Minn. - A security guard was injured after allegedly being attacked Sunday afternoon at the US Bank building in downtown Rochester.

Marcus Chamber, 22, is facing charges for third-degree assault and disorderly conduct in connection to the incident.

Authorities said a 57-year-old approached Chamber and asked him to leave when the security guard was knocked to the ground and punched 3-4 times in the head.

The victim suffered a large cut on his face and was complaining of head/shoulder pain and took himself to the hospital.

Chamber was arrested in the skyway entrance to the 318 Commons.WASHINGTON/SHANGHAI (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said China had agreed to cut import tariffs on American-made cars, buoying shares in BMW and Daimler AG who manufacture in the United States for export to the worlds biggest auto market.

Shares of Chinese car dealers also perked up on hopes that such a move could revitalize the domestic auto market that is poised for its first annual sales contraction in decades amid cooling economic growth and a debilitating U.S.-China trade war.

Trump, fresh from agreeing a 90-day cease-fire in his trade war with China at the meeting of the G20, said on Twitter China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%.

The move, if realized, would bolster U.S. carmakers who were hit hard when China ramped up levies on U.S.-made cars in July as part of a broad package of retaliatory tariffs amid the sprawling trade war between Washington and Beijing.

If they cancel the extra 25 percent tariff on U.S.-made cars, then we will see positive signs for imported cars, Wang Cun, director of the China Automobile Dealers Associations import committee, told reporters in Beijing.

Beijing raised tariffs on U.S. auto imports to 40 percent in July, forcing many carmakers to hike prices in a major hit to the roughly $10 billion worth of passenger vehicles the United States sent to China last year.

That put U.S.-made car brands like Tesla Inc and Ford Motor Cos Lincoln at a major disadvantage as the move came soon after China slashed auto import tariffs for the wider market to 15 percent from 25 percent.

Trumps tweet did not give any further detail about the tariff cuts, such as when the deal had been reached or a new level for the Chinese levies.

The White House and U.S. Trade Representatives (USTR) office did not immediately respond to a request for comment late on Sunday. Chinas commerce and finance ministries did not respond to requests for comment on Monday.

SHARES CLIMB

In early European trade on Monday, shares in Germanys BMW, Volkswagen ASG (VOWG_p.DE) and Mercedes-Benz parent Daimler rose between 4-7 percent.

In China, listed car dealers such as Grand Automotive, Pangda Automobile Trade and Sinomach Automobile climbed on the news, with some local carmakers falling back.

Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to halt new tariffs during talks in Argentina on Saturday, following months of escalating tensions on trade and other issues.

After a 2-1/2 hour dinner with Xi on Saturday in Buenos Aires, Trump agreed to postpone an increase in the tariff rate on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports to 25 percent from 10 percent that was scheduled for Jan. 1. China agreed to resume purchases of some U.S. farm and energy commodities.

The two sides also agreed to negotiate in the next 90 days over structural changes to Chinas policies on technology transfers, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and theft, services and agriculture.

Major U.S. automakers said they were unaware of the lower tariffs on exports to China.

The automakers have a previously scheduled meeting with USTR on Monday, two people briefed on the matter told Reuters.

The lower tariffs would be a boost to automakers exporting vehicles to China, including Ford and German carmaker BMW, which exports U.S.-built luxury vehicles to China.

It would also be good news for Tesla that has been hit hard by increased tariffs on the electric cars it imports to China.

The U.S. firm, led by billionaire Elon Musk, has said it will cut prices to make its cars more affordable and absorb more of the hit from the tariffs. Tesla is also building a local plant in Shanghai to help it avoid steep tariffs.

The United States currently charges tariffs of 27.5 percent on Chinese vehicles. On Wednesday, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said Trump had directed him to examine all available tools to raise U.S. tariffs on Chinese vehicles to the level that China is charging.Currency volatility has been generally elevated this year due to rising tensions on the back of growing fears of a trade conflict between Washington and Beijing.

But the weekend news pushed such market gauges lower.

Implied volatility measures on the Chinese yuan fell to more than one-month lows at 5.3 percent while similar indicators on the Aussie and the Singapore dollar slipped to multi-month lows.

(Reporting by Saikat Chatterjee and Marc Jones; Editing by Abhinav Ramnarayan)(Reuters) - Ernst & Young said on Monday that Mark Weinberger would step down on July 1, 2019 as global chairman and chief executive. The accounting firm said go.ey.com/2BPesVO it expected to appoint a new global chairman and CEO in January, allowing a six-month transition. Reporting by Mekhla Raina in Bengaluru; Editing by Adrian Croft

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.Eric Knecht

DOHA (Reuters) - Qatar said it will quit OPEC to focus on gas in a swipe at Saudi Arabia, the de facto leader of the oil exporting group which is trying to show unity in tackling an oil price slide.

Doha, one of OPECs smallest oil producers but the worlds biggest liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter, is embroiled in a row with OPEC members Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

It said the surprise decision to exit OPEC, which has 15 members including Qatar, in January was not driven by politics and it did not name Saudi Arabia, but Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad al-Kaabi said:

We are not saying we are going to get out of the oil business but it is controlled by an organization managed by a country, al-Kaabi said.

Qatar would attend an OPEC meeting scheduled for Thursday and Friday in Vienna and would abide by its commitments, he said, adding that Doha would focus on its gas potential.

This was because it was not practical to put efforts and resources and time in an organization that we are a very small player in and I dont have a say in what happens, he added.

Graphic: Qatar's LNG and oil exports - tmsnrt.rs/2QbsLNgOPEC members Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, and fellow Arab states Bahrain and Egypt, have imposed a political and economic boycott on Qatar since June 2017, accusing it of supporting terrorism, which Doha denies.

Qatars former prime minister, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani, said on Twitter that OPEC is only used for purposes that hurt our national interests.

The United Arab Emirates said Dohas decision was a reflection of its declining influence.

The political aspect of Qatars decision to quit OPEC is an admission of the decline of its role and influence in light of its political isolation, Anwar Gargash, UAE minister of state for foreign affairs, said on Twitter.

OPECs loss of a long-standing member undermines a bid to show a united front before a meeting that is expected to back a supply cut to shore up prices. Benchmark Brent is trading at around $62 a barrel, down from more than $86 in October. LCOc1

They are not a big producer, but have played a big part in (OPECs) history, one OPEC source said.

It highlights the growing dominance over policy making in the oil market of Saudi Arabia, Russia and the United States, the worlds top three oil producers which together account for more than a third of global output.

Riyadh and Moscow have been increasingly deciding output policies together, under pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump on OPEC to bring down prices.

It could signal a historic turning point of the organization towards Russia, Saudi Arabia and the United States, said Algerias former energy minister and OPEC chairman, Chakib Khelil, commenting on Qatars move.

UNILATERAL DECISIONS

He said Dohas exit would have a psychological impact because of the row with Riyadh and could prove an example to be followed by other members in the wake of unilateral decisions of Saudi Arabia in the recent past.

Qatar, which Al-Kaabi said had been a member of OPEC for 57 years, has oil output of just 600,000 barrels per day (bpd), compared with Saudi Arabias 11 million bpd.

But Doha is an influential player in the global LNG market with annual production of 77 million tonnes per year, based on its huge reserves in the Gulf.

Graphic: The world's biggest LNG exporters - tmsnrt.rs/2RvFB5zAl-Kaabi, who is heading Qatar's OPEC delegation, said the decision was part of a long-term strategy and the country's plans to develop its gas industry and increase LNG output to 110 million tonnes by 2024.

I assure you this purely was a decision on whats right for Qatar long term. Its a strategy decision, Al-Kaabi said.

The exit is the latest example of Qatar charting a course away from its Gulf neighbors since the rift began last year. It comes before an annual summit of Gulf Arab states expected to grapple with the roughly 18-month standoff.

Once close partners with Saudi Arabia and the UAE on trade and security, Qatar has struck scores of new trade deals with countries further afield while investing heavily to scale up local food production and ramp up military power.

There is a sentiment in Qatar that Saudi Arabias dominance in the region and the regions many institutions has been counterproductive to Qatar, said Andreas Krieg, a political risk analyst at Kings College London. It is about Qatar breaking free as an independent market and state from external interference.

Oil surged about 5 percent on Monday after the United States and China agreed to a 90-day truce in their trade war, but prices remain well off Octobers peak.

Asked if Qatars withdrawal would complicate OPECs decision on output this week, a non-Gulf OPEC source said: Not really, even if its a regrettable and sad decision.

Al-Kaabi said state oil company Qatar Petroleum planned to raise its production capability from 4.8 million barrels of oil equivalent per day to 6.5 million barrels in the next decade.

Doha also plans to build the largest ethane cracker in the Middle East and it would still look to expand its oil investments abroad, Al-Kaabi added.

Additional reporting by Florence Tan in Singapore, Rania El Gamal and Nafisa Eltahir in Dubai, Ahmed Ghaddar in Vienna and Lamine Chikhi in Algiers; Writing by Saeed Azhar and Ghaida Ghantous; Editing by Michael Georgy/Edmund Blair/Alexander Smith'He (PM Modi) says KCR is Sonia Gandhi's agent. Rahul comes and says KCR is (the) 'B' team of Modi. Then, whose agent am I ?' Rao asked.

'I submit only one thing... KCR is Telangana people's agent and not (an) agent of anybody...,' the caretaker chief minister said. (Photo: PTI)

Hyderabad: TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao said Monday he was only an "agent" of the people of Telangana and not anyone else's, amid accusations that he was the BJP's "B team" and also the Congress' "agent".

"He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) says KCR is Sonia Gandhi's agent. Rahul Gandhi comes and says KCR is (the) 'B' team of Narendra Modi. Then, whose agent am I ? What is this story of agents?" Rao asked.

"I submit only one thing... KCR is Telangana people's agent and not (an) agent of anybody...," the caretaker chief minister said, while addressing a rally at Kodad town in Suryapet district. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday alleged that Modi, Rao and AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi were "one" and urged the people of Telangana to not be "fooled by them".

He also claimed that the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) was the BJP's "B team" and Rao "operates" as Modi's "Telangana Rubber Stamp". "Owaisi's, AIMIM is the BJP's 'C' team, whose role is to split the anti BJP/KCR vote," the Congress chief tweeted.

Modi had last Tuesday called the Congress and the TRS two sides of the same coin. Addressing a rally in Telangana, he recalled Rao's "apprenticeship" with the Congress and claimed they were playing a "friendly match" in the Assembly polls.

At the Kodad rally, Rao also criticised Modi's alleged comments that there is a power shortage in Telangana. The caretaker chief minister claimed that the country had been able to use only 30,000 thousand million cubic feet (tmc) of water though 70,000 tmc of water is available. "40,000 TMC water is merging with the sea."

He claimed that Telangana is the only state in the country which gives 24-hour free power to farmers. "Narendra Modiji, your government is there in 19 states. Are you giving 24 hours free power to farmers in any of the states?" Rao asked.

Telangana goes to polls on Friday.Dec 3 (Reuters) - Institutional Shareholder Services Inc (ISS) has recommended shareholders to vote in favor of Detour Gold Corp's plans at the upcoming special shareholders meeting, giving the gold miner a boost in its proxy fight with activist investor Paulson & Co.

"Dissident has failed to make a compelling case for board control and has failed to articulate a detailed go-forward plan," the proxy advisory firm said. In November, the activist investor called for the immediate resignation of Detour's interim Chief Executive Officer Michael Kenyon and board member Alex Morrison.

Detour responded last week saying Kenyon will continue to head the company until a replacement was found.

(Reporting by Debroop Roy in Bengaluru) outside U.S. +91 80 6749 1690; Reuters Messaging: debroop.roy.thomsonreuters.com@reuters.net))

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.DOHA (Reuters) - Qatar said on Monday it was quitting OPEC from January to focus on its gas ambitions, taking a swipe at the groups de facto leader Saudi Arabia and marring efforts to show unity before this weeks meeting of exporters to tackle an oil price slide.

Doha, one of OPECs smallest oil producers but the worlds biggest liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter, is embroiled in a protracted diplomatic row with Saudi Arabia and some other Arab states.

Qatar said its surprise decision was not driven by politics but in an apparent swipe at Riyadh, Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad al-Kaabi said: We are not saying we are going to get out of the oil business but it is controlled by an organization managed by a country. He did not name the nation.

Al-Kaabi told a news conference that Dohas decision was communicated to OPEC but said Qatar would attend the groups meeting on Thursday and Friday in Vienna, and would abide by its commitments.

He said Doha would focus on its gas potential because it was not practical to put efforts and resources and time in an organization that we are a very small player in and I dont have a say in what happens.

Delegates at OPEC, which has 15 members including Qatar, sought to play down the impact. But losing a long-standing member undermines a bid to show a united front before a meeting that is expected to back a supply cut to shore up crude prices that have lost almost 30 percent since an October peak.

They are not a big producer, but have played a big part in (OPECs) history, one OPEC source said.

It highlights the growing dominance over policy making in the oil market of Saudi Arabia, Russia and the United States, the worlds top three oil producers which together account for more than a third of global output.

Riyadh and Moscow have been increasingly deciding output policies together, under pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump on OPEC to bring down prices. Benchmark Brent is trading at around $62 a barrel, down from more than $86 in October. LCOc1

It could signal a historic turning point of the organization towards Russia, Saudi Arabia and the United States, said Algerias former energy minister and OPEC chairman, Chakib Khelil, commenting on Qatars move.

UNILATERAL DECISIONS

He said Dohas exit would have a psychological impact because of the row with Riyadh and could prove an example to be followed by other members in the wake of unilateral decisions of Saudi Arabia in the recent past.

Qatar, which Al-Kaabi said had been a member of OPEC for 57 years, has oil output of just 600,000 barrels per day (bpd), compared with Saudi Arabias 11 million bpd.

But Doha is an influential player in the global LNG market with annual production of 77 million tonnes per year, based on its huge reserves of the fuel in the Gulf.

OPEC members Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, and fellow Arab states Bahrain and Egypt, have imposed a political and economic boycott on Qatar since June 2017, accusing it of supporting terrorism. Doha denies the charges and says the boycott aims to impinge on its sovereignty.

Al-Kaabi, who is heading Qatars OPEC delegation, said the decision was part of a long-term strategy and the countrys plans to develop its gas industry and increase LNG output to 110 million tonnes by 2024.

A lot of people will politicize it, Al-Kaabi said. I assure you this purely was a decision on whats right for Qatar long term. Its a strategy decision.

Qatars influential former prime minister, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani, said on Twitter that OPEC is only used for purposes that hurt our national interests.

The exit is the latest example of Qatar charting a course away from its Gulf neighbors since the rift began last year. It comes before an annual summit of Gulf Arab states expected to grapple with the roughly 18-month standoff.

Once close partners with Saudi Arabia and the UAE on trade and security, Qatar has struck scores of new trade deals with countries further afield while investing heavily to scale up local food production and ramp up military power.

There is a sentiment in Qatar that Saudi Arabias dominance in the region and the regions many institutions has been counterproductive to Qatar, said Andreas Krieg, a political risk analyst at Kings College London. It is about Qatar breaking free as an independent market and state from external interference.

Oil surged about 5 percent on Monday after the United States and China agreed to a 90-day truce in their trade war, but prices remain well off Octobers peak.

Asked if Qatars withdrawal would complicate OPECs decision on output this week, a non-Gulf OPEC source said: Not really, even if its a regrettable and sad decision from one of our member countries.

Amrita Sen, chief oil analyst at consultancy Energy Aspects, said the move doesnt affect OPECs ability to influence as Qatar was a very small player.

Al-Kaabi said state oil company Qatar Petroleum planned to raise its production capability from 4.8 million barrels of oil equivalent per day to 6.5 million barrels in the next decade.

Doha also plans to build the largest ethane cracker in the Middle East.

Qatar would still look to expand its oil investments abroad and would make a big splash in the oil and gas business, he Al-Kaabi added.

Graphic: Who produces what within OPEC? tmsnrt.rs/2RxkhwCBy Andrew Galbraith and Noah Sin

SHANGHAI/HONG KONG, Dec 3 (Reuters) - China stocks surged and the yuan posted its best gain in nearly three years on Monday after Chinese and U.S. leaders agreed to a temporary truce in their trade war, but the long-term outlook for trade relations and Chinese markets remains murky.

The deal between Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping postponed the most pressing threat to the global and Chinese economies - a sharp hike in U.S. tariffs that had been slated for Jan. 1. But analysts cautioned it has only bought three more months for wrangling over deeply divisive trade and policy issues, and predicted China's economy will continue to cool regardless under the weight of faltering domestic demand.

Still, the news offered some relief for the country's battered stock markets, which had tumbled over 20 percent at one point this year, prompting a flurry of support measures.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite index closed 2.6 percent higher at 2,654.80 points and the blue-chip CSI300 index jumped 2.8 percent.

In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng index closed 2.6 percent higher at 27,182.04, also its best day in a month. The index for Chinese companies listed in Hong Kong rose 2.5 percent.

"This is a relief rally. The markets are oversold. I don't think we needed much of an excuse (for a rebound)," said Paul Kitney, chief equity strategist at Daiwa Capital Markets in Hong Kong.

The agreement "is not a ceasefire, it's just a de-escalation. The existing tariffs are still having a negative impact on the Chinese economy, they haven't gone away."

Shares in auto parts makers with overseas operations and automobile dealers surged in the afternoon, while domestic vehicle makers trimmed gains, after Trump said on Sunday that China had agreed to "reduce and remove" tariffs on U.S. cars.

FEW DETAILS, CLOCK IS TICKING

The White House said Beijing had agreed to buy an unspecified but "very substantial" amount of U.S. products and said the two sides would launch new talks to address issues including technology transfer and intellectual property.

But the White House also said the existing 10 percent tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods would be raised to 25 percent if no deal was reached within 90 days.

The agreement was more than investors had expected, but is unlikely to spark an immediate turnaround for markets, said Zhang Gang, an analyst at China Central Securities in Shanghai.

"While this means the effect of the trade war may pause for a moment, we're still facing domestic issues including slowing growth, and awaiting more information about the direction of macroeconomic policy and eagerly expected measures like tax cuts."

While some commentators such as Oxford Economics stressed that the truce appears fragile, the yuan currency also took heart from the suspension of the looming tariff hike and promise of more talks.

The yuan rose 1.02 percent - its strongest daily gain since Feb. 15, 2016 - to breach the 6.89 per dollar mark and ended onshore trading session at 6.8885.

It has lost nearly 6 percent so far this year as trade ties deteriorated and the U.S. dollar firmed, and some analysts had forecast it would slide further if the trade war escalated.

The offshore yuan also breached 6.89 per dollar to trade at 6.8846 at 0836 GMT.

"Such positive sentiment won't fade very soon ... (the 90-day) period is not short, it's long enough to soothe market sentiment," said a trader at a foreign bank in Shanghai.

Ken Cheung, senior Asia FX strategist at Mizuho Bank in Hong Kong, was less optimistic.

"The gap between China and the U.S. ... remains quite wide, and it is very difficult for them to reach a comprehensive deal in 90 days," Cheung said.

Chinese 10-year treasury futures for March delivery had fallen in the morning session as shares rallied but were last up 0.13 percent at 96.825.

A Shanghai-based trader said a stronger yuan and easing trade tensions gave authorities more flexibility to manage the slowing economy.

"If the CNY does not depreciate, the PBOC has more room for easing," he said, referring to reduced risks of capital outflows.

But other analysts said the deal could prompt investors to scale back expectations of further policy easing by Beijing in the medium-term. Speculation had been swirling in recent weeks that authorities may be considering stronger stimulus measures if trade pressures intensified.

Commodities also rallied on hopes of thawing relations. Prices of Chinese steel products and steelmaking ingredients soared more than 6 percent. "We are expecting China to buy more LNG, LPG, corn and soybean to step up imports from U.S," said Michael Mao, energy analyst with consultancy China Sublime Information Group.

But some analysts cautioned about reading too much into Monday's rally.

"The fundamentals haven't changed," said Ben Kwong, director of research at KGI Asia in Hong Kong.

"Worries about the trade war have subsided, so investors are shifting their focus back to other things, like a stronger renminbi (or) a lower pace of rate hikes from the Fed."



(Reporting by Winni Zhou and Andrew Galbraith in SHANGHAI and Noah Sin in HONG KONG; Additional reporting by Meng Meng and Muyu Xu in BEIJING; Editing by Sam Holmes and Kim Coghill)* Convenience store McColl's sinks after profit alert

LONDON, Dec 3 (Reuters) - Mining and energy stocks led a rally in British equity markets on Monday after Washington and Beijing agreed a ceasefire in their trade conflict, which has upended financial markets, and oil prices surged ahead of the OPEC meeting.

Starting the final month of the year on a positive note, the blue-chip index was up more than 2 percent at 0929 GMT after rising to its highest in three weeks, on track for its best day since April.

The index is down more than 7 percent so far this year amid lingering worries about Brexit, corporate earnings and the trade row. The FTSE 250 was up 1.3 percent.

At a meeting at the G20 meeting in Argentina, China and the United States agreed on Saturday to halt additional tariffs and to meet again in 90 days to try to bridge their differences. "The trade war may not be over, but it's at least been delayed," said Mike van Dulken, analyst at Accendo Markets.

Mining stocks were among the top gainers, as the news led copper prices to rally to two-month highs, spurring hopes for demand for industrial metals from China, the world's largest consumer.

The sector has been hurt by concerns about global economic growth amid the trade row. Antofagasta, Evraz, Anglo American and BHP were up between 5.9 percent and 7.9 percent.

Positive factory data from China also soothed worries about the health of the world's second-largest economy and engine of the global commodities market. Oil stocks were up 2.7 percent as crude prices rallied 5 percent ahead of a meeting this week of the producer club OPEC that is expected to agree to cut supply. Among individual moves, Dunelm Group topped the FTSE midcaps after Peal Hunt upgraded the stock, citing plus-10 percent EBIT margins, 15 percent ROCE, 10 percent free cash flow yields and one of the lowest levels of operational gearing in the home furnishing sector.

Ted Baker fell to its lowest in more than four years, after the clothes designer said it has launched an investigation into claims against Chief Executive Officer Ray Kelvin. The stock defied a rally across European luxury goods companies on hopes that the U.S.-China detente will boost demand for high-end clothes and accessories among China's burgeoning middle class. On the FTSE 100, Burberry Group rose 5 percent.

Travel company Thomas Cook notched a fifth straight day of losses after its profit warning last Tuesday, its second in as many months. It's now lost 44 percent of its value.

RPC Group was 4.3 percent lower after ending takeover talks with U.S. private equity firm Bain Capital, leaving Apollo Global Management in the lead for Europe's biggest plastics packager. McColl's shares fell to all-time lows, sinking as much as 28 percent, after i warned on its full-year profits.

(Reporting by Josephine Mason, editing by Larry King)ADEN/DUBAI (Reuters) - Yemeni Houthi officials are expected to travel to Sweden shortly for talks as early as Wednesday to end the nearly four-year-old war after the Saudi-led coalition allowed the evacuation of some of their wounded for treatment.

Prospects for convening talks have risen as Western allies press Saudi Arabia, leader of the Sunni Muslim alliance battling the Iranian-aligned Houthis, over a war that has killed more than 10,000 people and pushed Yemen to the brink of famine.

U.N. special envoy Martin Griffiths arrived in the Houthi-held capital Sanaa on Monday to escort the Houthi delegation, a U.N. source told Reuters. The Saudi-backed government has said it would follow the Houthis to the talks, the first since 2016.

The peace talks may start on Wednesday, two sources familiar with the matter said. Griffiths shuttled between the parties to salvage a previous round that collapsed in September after the Houthis failed to show up.

Western powers, which provide arms and intelligence to the coalition, may now have greater leverage to demand action on Yemen after outrage over the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Riyadhs consulate in Istanbul led to increased scrutiny of the kingdoms activities in the region.

The U.S. Senate is due to consider this week a resolution to end support for the conflict, seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and its arch-foe in the Middle East, Iran.

Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi politburo, told Reuters their delegation would travel to Sweden Tuesday morning on a plane provided by Kuwait and accompanied by Griffiths.

A post on the U.N. envoys Twitter account thanked all parties for facilitating the evacuation of the 50 wounded fighters on Monday to Oman for treatment.

British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt tweeted that the evacuation as a positive 1st step ahead of the talks.

The coalition said in a statement it had agreed on the evacuation for humanitarian considerations and as part of confidence-building measures ahead of the talks, which are also due to focus on a transitional governing body.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry said it backed the talks and was ready to help find a political solution, Iranian state TV reported on Monday.

LOOMING FAMINE

Analysts said both parties showing up for the talks would be an achievement in itself, even if there are no concrete outcomes as Griffiths tries to overcome deep mistrust on all sides.

Neither side wishes to be blamed for the dire consequences of the looming famine, which is starting to become a reality, said Elisabeth Kendall, a senior research fellow in Arabic and Islamic Studies at Oxford University.

But it remains to be seen whether the political will is really there to make the necessary concessions for peace.

Some 8.4 million Yemenis are facing starvation, although the United Nations has warned that will probably rise to 14 million. Three-quarters of impoverished Yemens population, or 22 million people, require aid.

The Arab alliance intervened in the war in 2015 to restore the internationally recognized government of Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi but has bogged down in military stalemate, despite superior air power, since seizing the southern port of Aden that year.

The Houthis, who are more adept at guerrilla warfare, hold most population centers including Sanaa and the Red Sea port city of Hodeidah, a lifeline for millions that is now the focus of the war.

Griffiths hopes to reach a deal on reopening Sanaa airport and securing a prisoner swap and a ceasefire in Hodeidah as a foundation for a wider ceasefire, which would include a halt to coalition air strikes that have killed thousands of civilians as well as Houthi missile attacks on Saudi cities.The Economist reports:

When James Cook landed in Australia in 1770, Aboriginals had been there for about 60,000 years. Their 500 or so separate nations lacked kingpins or settled agriculture, so colonisers deemed the land terra nullius, free for the taking. Aboriginals were butchered or displaced, and later their children were stolen and placed in foster care under a cultural assimilation programme that lasted for six decades. They got the vote only in 1962. After a referendum five years later, they were included in the census.

In NZ it was somewhat better. Maori got the vote in 1867, 95 years ahead of Aboriginals in Australia. And in NZ there was a Maori census in 1857 and regularly there after (but not merged with the main census until 1951).

Even well-intentioned policies brought in more recently have failed them. When the law said they must be paid the same wage as other Australians for the same job, many were sacked. Billions of dollars are poured into programmes to help indigenous peoples every year, with mixed results. The decade-wide gap in life expectancy is getting wider. Though only 3% of the population, Aboriginals fill a quarter of Australias prison cells. Their young men have one of the highest suicide rates in the world. Their children are almost ten times more likely to be in state care.

I had no idea a quarter of the prison population in Australia is Aboriginal. That is an imprisonment rate nine times the overall imprisonment rate. It is twice the imprisonment rate in NZ for Maori New Zealanders.

Aboriginals hold title over 31% of the country, with rights to hunt and fish, and to negotiate over economic developments such as mining.

Note title is now the same as ownership.

Many Aboriginals therefore look with envy across the Tasman Sea, to the Maori. They remain at the bottom of New Zealands pile, but still live longer and healthier lives than Aboriginals. New Zealanders who identify as Maori are 15% of the population of 5m. Their median weekly income of NZ$900 ($610) is almost double that of their Aboriginal counterparts. Although more than half of New Zealands inmates are Maori, they are less likely to go to prison than Aboriginals. This relative success is partly a reflection of colonial history. British settlers reached New Zealand much later than Australia, found what they saw as a more civilised society, and signed a treaty with the Maori in 1843. It was routinely flouted but a tribunal established in 1975 has allowed the Maori to seek redress for historical abuses. But it also reflects the Maori themselves. They are a tight-knit group compared with Australias distinct indigenous nations. They formed a monarchy in order to unify against colonialists, and almost all speak the same language. Once near extinction, it is now taught in schools and spoken in Parliament (where the Maori have reserved seats). An illustrious list of leaders includes Winston Peters, the current deputy prime minister and foreign minister. Three Maori have become archbishops and two governors-general. Some 87 agreements have been struck between various tribes and the state in the past 30 years, helping them to lay the past to rest. Financial reimbursements can be stingy, but some have won large enough settlements to develop successful companies. The largest belongs to the Ngai Tahu, a people spanning most of the South Island, who own farms, fisheries and tourism ventures. tdb Advisory, a consultancy, values the assets of Maori post-settlement entities at NZ$7.8bn, far more than Australias entire indigenous economy.

Definitely things better on the NZ side.

The two countries attitudes towards their indigenes could scarcely be more different. Mainstream Australians are still largely segregated from Aboriginals. New Zealanders tend to take more pride in their mixed heritage. Maori tattoos are ubiquitous in mainly white suburbs. Citizens of every hue glory in their countrys domination of rugby (both the mens and womens teams are ranked top of the world). All purr with pride at the haka, a Maori war dance that precedes international matches.

I think the integration in New Zealand has been a major part of why outcomes have been better than in Australia.

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Shah alleged that the Congress, in its manifesto for the Dec 7 polls, had promised free electricity to mosques and churches but not to temples.

Hyderabad: BJP president Amit Shah on Sunday alleged that the caretaker CM of Telangana, K. Chandrasekhar Rao, had burdened the st-ate with crores of rupees by opting for early polls.

Speaking at an election rally at Narayanpet in Mahbubnagar district, he also alleged that both the TRS and the Congress believed in the appeasement of minorities and that AIMIMs Asaduddin Owaisi had said whoever became the chief minister of the southern state would have to bow before his party.

Telangana would have saved hundreds of crores of rupees had it opted for the Assembly polls along with the Lok Sabha election in May next year. KCR burdened the state with crores of rupees of election expenditure. Who is responsible for this? KCR was doubtful of his victory in May, fearing a (Prime Minister) Modi wave, Mr Shah said.

He alleged that the Con-gress, in its manifesto for the December 7 polls, had promised free electricity to mosques and churc-hes but not to temples.

The BJP chief also alle-ged that as part of its politics of minority appeasement, the Opposition party had promised an educational aid of `20 lakh to the minority students if it came to power in Telangana.

The Congress also speaks about reservations for the minorities in government contracts. It also talks about separate hospitals for the minorities. I want to ask Rahul Gandhi, what would be the fate of the poor people who do not belong to the minority communities, he said.Inspector Subodh Kumar, who was posted at the Syana Police Station, died in the violence, he said, but did not elaborate.

As tension prevailed in the area, policemen from several police stations have been rushed along with senior officials to take control of the situation, police said. (Photo: ANI | Twitter)

Bulandshahr: A police inspector and a youth were killed on Monday as a rampaging mob protesting alleged illegal cow slaughter torched a police post here and clashed with police, which opened fire, officials said.

Additional Director General (Meerut zone) Prashant Kumar said the protestors from Mahaw village and nearby areas pelted stones on the police and indulged in arson, setting ablaze several vehicles and Chingarwathi Police Chowki. Inspector Subodh Kumar, who was posted at the Siana Police Station, died in the violence, he said, but did not elaborate.

Police also said a 20-year-old youth, identified as Sumit, died of gunshot wounds. As tension prevailed in the area following the violence that lasted nearly three hours, the Uttar Pradesh government deployed additional police, including over 1,000 personnel of anti-riot forces, and ordered multiple probes -- by SIT, ADG-Intelligence -- and a magisterial inquiry. Giving details of the incident, ADG Law and Order Anand Kumar said in Lucknow that trouble started after villagers found some body parts of cows in a jungle in Mahaw village.

"This morning carcasses of the cows were found dumped in a forest area outside the village. Activists of right-wing organisations soon gathered at the spot and alleged that people of a community were indulging in cow slaughter," he said. Angry villagers and members of various Hindu groups brought the animal remains in tractor-trolley to the Chingarwathi Police Chowki and demanded action against the culprits. They raised slogans against the police administration and blocked the Bulandshahr-Garh State Highway.

Bulandshahr District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha, Sub-divisional Magistrate Avinash Kumar Maurya and other senior officials tried to reason with the protestors but they refused to budge. The protesters soon turned violent, pelting stones on policemen and indulging in arson, he said, adding that police had to open fire in self-defence. Kumar said the UP government acted swiftly and ordered an SIT probe, besides an inquiry by the ADG intelligence and a magisterial probe.

He said that additional reinforcements have been rushed to the spot of violence, and described the situation as under control. "Police inspector Subodh Kumar died in hospital during treatment after being hit by a blunt object, probably stone," he said.

Amid reports that the cop was lynched, the ADG said the exact reason for his death will be known after a post-mortem and the inquiry by the ADG-intelligence who has been asked to submit a report in 48 hours.

The ADG said that security has been bolstered in the area with 500 personnel of Rapid Action Force and 600 personnel of Provincial Armed Constabulary. DM Jha said, "Some people took the bodies of the animals and tried to block the road. The policemen were attacked when they tried to get the road opened." Meanwhile, mobile footage from the area, shot by onlookers, showed young men attacking policemen with stones.

The violence started at around 10 am in Siana area in the district where a major three-day Islamic congregation had concluded this afternoon. The policemen warned against attempts to spread any misleading information, saying the incident was not related in any way to the congregation.

"The incident occurred 40-50 km away from the congregation site. Some miscreants were behind the violence and action is being taken against them in accordance with law," the Bulandshahr Police tweeted in the evening.By Yi Whan-woo



A retired North Korean official in his 60s was arrested for criticizing the country's leader Kim Jong-un, according to sources familiar with the matter.



They recently told Radio Free Asia (RFA) that the official, who served as the deputy chairman of the People's Committee in the border town of Hyesan, Ryanggang Province, was arrested while attempting to flee the country.



"The retired official was arrested without warrant on Nov. 3 by the State Security Department on the charge of criticizing the Supreme Leader," a source said, adding the man retired in October 2017.



"He had been a very loyal administrative official for quite some time here in Ryanggang. He had a deep understanding of the lives of ordinary people and was very sympathetic to their difficulties."



The official criticized Kim over his recent visits to Samjiyon County in Ryanggang Province, where a state-sponsored construction project is under way. The project includes more than 400 new buildings.



It was considered "one of the country's largest and most highly promoted." But the official was disappointed with Kim for not focusing on the lives of the people, according to the source.



"When the Supreme Leader visited Samjiyon County three times this year to check on the progress of the project, and ordered the country to focus on projects like this, the retired official was disappointed," the source said.



The official shared his disappointment with a friend who works at the State Security Department.



The source detailed how the retiree was arrested after the friend's betrayal.



"His friend had a duty to report the ideological tendencies of former government officials to the department," the source said. "After hearing the initial criticism, the retiree's friend had drinks with him several times, then documented and reported his problematic comments."



The official tried to escape the country after learning the State Security Department was investigating him.



State Security Department officers in civilian clothes took him away quietly in the middle of the night, so most of his neighbors did not know he was arrested.



A different source said Ryanggang authorities, following the arrest, were ordered to report on the reactions of officials and citizens and that even powerful officials have been closely watched.



Meanwhile, the source sympathized with the arrested official, claiming Kim only underscored finishing the project without financial support before the 75th anniversary of the foundation of the ruling Workers' Party in 2020.



"There hasn't been any government funding for the project, nor are construction materials provided, so residents here have been complaining about the government's push [to get this done quickly]," the source said. "I don't know who else might become the department's next victim during the Samjiyon project's remaining years."

Steve Garbacz is editor of The News Sun. If you want the experience of Central Time, just stay at work until 6 p.m. every day and enjoy driving home in the dark. Email him during normal work hours  8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EASTERN  at sgarbacz@kpcmedia.com.Cow slaughter suspicion led to violence; police attacked.

Policemen inspect the area where several vehicles were set on fire by a mob during a protest over the alleged illegal slaughter of cattle in Bulandshahr. (Photo: PTI)

Lucknow: An Uttar Pradesh police inspector, who had probed the Akhlaq lynching case in 2015, and a 20-year-old villager were killed as a mob went on the rampage against alleged illegal cow slaughter in Bulandshahr district of western Uttar Pradesh on Monday, police and district administration officials said. The state government has ordered an inquiry into the incident.

The mob fury was triggered by the alleged seizure of cow carcasses from a jungle outside Mahaw village. Following this, villagers from Mahaw and nearby areas blocked the Bulandshahr-Garh state highway to protest against illegal animal slaughter.

Activists of right-wing organisations gathered at the spot and alleged that people of a community were indulging in cow slaughter, a police official said in Lucknow.

The situation got out of control around 10 am when about 400 angry villagers torched Chingravathi police outpost, torched several vehicles, including a police van, and used stones and guns in their three-hour-long clash with the police which opened fire, he said.

Inspector Subodh Kumar, who was posted at Syana police station, was killed in the violence and Sumit, 20, died of gunshot wounds, said additional director general (Meerut zone) Prashant Kumar.

Inspector Singh was the investigating officer in the Akhlaq lynching case of Dadri between September 28, 2015, and November 9, 2015. Akhlaq was lynched by a mob that had barged into his residence in Dadri following rumours that he stored beef in his house after slaughtering a calf.

Giving details of the chain of events leading to violence, district magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha said that police and senior officials tried to reason with the protesters who had blocked a road but they refused to budge.

Soon after sub-divisional magistrate Avinash Kumar Maurya arrived on the scene, the villagers turned violent, pelting stones on policemen and indulging in arson. The inspector, who was hit by a bullet near left eye and suffered head injury during stone-pelting, died of excessive bleeding before reaching the Aurangabad community health centre (CHC), an official said.

A video showing the body of a policeman slumping to ground from the seat of a police vehicle, surrounded by some people, came to light after the incident. But the police refused to confirm if it was of inspector Subodh Kumar. However, a senior police official requesting anonymity said, In all likelihood, the video appears to be of Subodh Kumar. An FIR was lodged against seven people, whose names have not been disclosed, he added.

The violence erupted 40 kilometres from the venue of the Tablighi Ijtema, a three-day Islamic congregation attended by 15 lakh people in the district. The event had concluded on Monday afternoon. The state government has ordered an SIT probe.Bilateral and trilateral meetings of leaders invited more attention than the summit speeches.

Ten years ago, the Group of Twenty, or G-20, was created to coordinate worldwide action to combat the global financial crisis. The old G-7 group of the worlds top industrialised nations created it by inviting the next 12, plus the European Union, constituting 85 per cent of worlds economic output. The just-concluded Buenos Aires summit on November 30-December 1 was held against the backdrop of the simmering tension between many nations over political or economic issues. They issued a Leaders Declaration, more declaratory than having concrete points of action.

Bilateral and trilateral meetings of leaders invited more attention than the summit speeches. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with the Jamal Khashoggi assassination controversy hovering over his head, offered some distraction over who would or would not greet him. His high-five exchange with Russian President Vladimir Putin caused some merriment as indeed leaks that German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Theresa May had lectured him. Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi happily posed with him eyeing prospective Saudi investments in India and the three million-odd Indians working in Saudi Arabia, besides the Indian dependence on oil imports.

India figured in two trilateral sessions. One was with Japan and the United States (US President Donald Trump held no bilateral meeting with India) and another one with Russia and China, maintaining the old grouping RIC. The former was joyfully christened by PM Modi as JAI, explaining it as meaning victory in Hindi. Nomenclatures aside, this was continued Indian re-balancing that began earlier this year with Mr Modis outreach to Presidents Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping. Thus, India has one foot in each boat, which will have clear strategic divergences. JAI sought a free, open, inclusive and rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region, which indirectly berates Chinese muscling of its neighbours in the South China Sea and the purloining of open seas within their fictional nine-dash line, including the fortification of islands created in breach of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Two other trilateral meetings were between the US, Canada and Mexico to sign USMCA (US, Canada, Mexico Agreemen

t) to replace the old North America Free Trade Agreement (Nafta); and between the foreign ministers of the European Union, UN Secretary-General and Chinas President Xi.

The Trump-Xi interaction and the cancellation of the planned Trump-Putin meeting drew global attention. Russias forcible seizure of three Ukrainian vessels entering the Sea of Azov, taken as a freedom of navigation zone, and the indictment of former Trump lawyer Paul Manafort forced the US Presidents hand. The US-China meeting had implications for global trade as the two largest economic powers, having imposed tit-for-tat tariffs, sat down for what the two leaders later called a highly successful meeting. The United States postponed tariff hikes on $250 million Chinese products from 10 per cent to 25 per cent planned January 1 as China agreed to buy a substantial amount of agricultural, industrial and energy products and agreed, with a 90-day deadline, as well as to immediately begin negotiations on structural changes with respect to forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusion and cyber theft. China also endorsed the Qualcom-NXP deal, which plans to merge the US-owned worlds biggest chipmaker and its Dutch rival. China also designated Fentanyl, a precursor for drug production, as a controlled substance. This is far from a deal, as outcome is contingent on negotiation results, but President Trump got some wins.

The G-20 Declaration focuses on four themes  the future of work, infrastructure for development, a sustainable food future and gender mainstreaming. Each rests on recognising that strong global economic growth has been increasingly less synchronised between nations and transformative technologies present risks and opportunities. Nations need to train, educate and improve skills for inclusive, fair and sustainable Future of Work. Describing education as a basic human right, the leaders seek coordination between employment and quality education policies. Linked to this is the recognition that digitalisation and emerging technologies should promote micro, small and medium enterprises.

These are pious sentiments, unlikely to change the trajectory of developed powers, particularly the United States, as they confront the challenge posed by China announcing in 2014 a $150 billion investment fund to improve its domestic industry under the rubric Made in China 2025. Former US President Barak Obama recognised this in 2015 when he barred Intels sale of advanced chips to China. Moores Law dictates that the capacity of chips doubles every two years. In this race, China can be delayed but not stopped from rivalling US and Western prowess.

That leaves India, as was obvious at G-20, on the margins of the global redistribution of economic and technological power. It was said that the Indian Prime Minister sought a mechanism for the expeditious transfer of fugitives to combat corruption and economic crimes. The declaration calls for criminalisation of the bribery of foreign public officials but adds that the return of persons sought for such offences and stolen assets was possible only when consistent with international obligations and domestic legal systems. That isnt different from the situation now. India needs better crime prevention and investigation to succeed in extraditing fugitives.

On climate change, the differences were apparent as the US view is in a separate paragraph, while the signatories to the Paris Agreement re-emphasised that a strong economy and healthy planet are mutually reinforcing. But Trumpian exceptionalism and the endorsement of fossil-fuel lobbies weakens the fight that may leave poorer countries the worst affected. The winter smog in North India is an annual occasion for self-flagellation. But where the Narendra Modi government has failed is to position India at the forefront of finding cost-effective solutions to these problems, other than advancing solar energy use.

Jawaharlal Nehru, Indias first Prime Minister who is now reviled by the neo right-wing, paid obeisance at the temples of modern science and industry. Regrettably, our national discourse has been diverted to building actual temples and statues. The real question is whether India, when it hosts the G-20 in 2022 coinciding with 75 years of Independence, return to that scientific temper and existential issues?The painting includes 15 scenes from the lives of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary, including the Annunciation and the Passion. Those depicted wear traditional Japanese clothes and items. Christianity arrived in Japan in 1549. Warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi issued an order to expel Christians in 1587. The Tokugawa shogunate, during the Edo period, banned the religion in 1612.

Tokyo (AsiaNews/Agencies)  Experts from the Yokohama History Museum have dated a rare work of art (pictured) that depicts Christian worship and prayers.

The scroll  created in sumi black ink on a piece of traditional washi Japanese paper 22 cm high and 320 cm long  dates back to the 16th century when Christians were persecuted.

The painting, part of a collection at the Sawada Miki Kinenkan Museum, in the town of Oiso, Kanagawa Prefecture, has been on display in the Yokohama museum since 23 November.

The piece depicts 15 scenes from the lives of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary, including the Annunciation and the Passion. It also includes descriptions in Japanese of Latin prayers.

People in the painting wear traditional hakama clothing, with some carrying what appear to be swords.

It was apparently based on a western religious painting and used as a devotional item by Japanese Christians of that time. Japanese characters written at the end of the painting suggest it was created by a believer in 1592.

By using radiocarbon technology to date the washi, the research institute found that the paper was made between 1556 and 1633.

[T]his is one of the oldest Christian paintings in Japan, said Osamu Inoue, deputy head of the Yokohama museum.

Yukihiro Ohashi, a professor in the history of Christianity in Japan at Waseda University, said the painting shows how people around the time devoted themselves to the religion.

Christian services were likely held, using these pictures and words of prayers, Ohashi said. The historic material vividly shows the atmosphere of the time.

After Christianity was introduced to Japan in 1549, Daimyo (feudal lord) Toyotomi Hideyoshi issued an order to expel Christians in 1587 and the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo Period banned the religion in 1612.

Sawada Miki Kinenkan is known for its collection of items from hidden Christians. The museum found the Christian painting among its holdings but does not know where the work came from.

The latest finding adds another piece to the rediscovery of Japans Christian history. In July, some 12 hidden Christian sites in Nagasaki and Amakusa became world UNESCO heritage sites. They symbolise anti-Christian persecution in the Edo period (1603- 1867).

On 1 April, the Diocese of Nagasaki inaugurated a museum dedicated to the history of Japanese Christianity inside the old bishops residence.Yesterday hundreds of people protested against unemployment and lack of essential services. Crisis and tensions push Christians to flee: at least one family a month leaves the city. Msgr. Habib: demonstrations and armed clashes between tribes, there is a precarious situation. But the faithful want to celebrate Advent, with masses and prayer meetings.

Basra (AsiaNews) - The Christian community is preparing to live the period of Advent that brings us closer to Christmas "in a situation of persistent violence. Every two or three days at most there are new demonstrations of the unemployed, young people and adults looking for work  Mgr Alnaufali Habib Jajou, Chaldean archbishop of Basra, in southern Iraq tells AsiaNews. Since last July has been the scene of violence and demonstrations for an increasingly critical socio-economic situation. To this, the prelate continues, there are "clashes between tribes, who use guns and firearms" to settle "disputes and personal issues: this happens at least once a week".

The metropolis of southern Iraq has long been hit by a severe water crisis and is the scene of demonstrations. Citizens protest against the poor quality of public services, unemployment (10% according to official figures, but with peaks up to 60% among young people) and endemic corruption. The Basra region includes around 90% of the country's hydrocarbon resources; however, only 1% of the workforce comes from the area.

Because of the bloody protests (23 victims confirmed since 8 July), the local Church has decided to suspend cultural activities and catechism. At that time the Archbishop had warned of a possible escalation. Once upon a time the Christians of Basra were a significant part of the city, many of them exponents of the merchant class. However, in recent years the community has declined, even if in the south it has not suffered the same persecutions experienced in Mosul, Baghdad, Kirkuk or in the plain of Nineveh. "These days - says Msgr. Habib Jajou - another family has emigrated to Jordan because of the poor conditions. In general, at least one family a month leaves ".

Yesterday, meanwhile, hundreds of people took to the streets to protest the lack of work and the lack of essential services. Among these were dozens of teachers who marched to the governorate, blocking the streets and chanting slogans against the government. "You and Saddam [Hussein, the former dictator] are two sides of the same coin." Many call for the area to be converted into an "autonomous region" to benefit more from exports (95% of Iraq's total oil come from this area) of oil.

In a situation of crisis and tension, Christians began celebrations in preparation for Christmas. In spite of the fears of violence, says the Archbishop, "we will continue to celebrate masses and families will continue to meet in small groups in individual apartments, made available in turn, for prayers and meetings". Although in a minor tone, a special Santa Claus will bring gifts and sweets to the children "and we will organize a small party, even if people do not like to stay out for a long time" for fear of being involved in demonstrations or attacks. Finally, between December 25 and January 6, according to tradition, although in a minor tone, there will be "exchanges of greetings and traditional visits to relatives and friends".

According to recent estimates, today only a little more than 10% of the original population remained, a few hundred compared to the 3,000 Christian families once present in the area. In September 2015, the local community celebrated the inauguration of the first Christian museum in southern Iraq; it houses more than 200 religious artifacts, documents, liturgical furnishings, photographs, clothes and furniture, some of which date back to the seventeenth century.Christian Churches in Uttar Pradesh organised the event. In Varanasi, the holy city of Hinduism, and its district, right-wing Hindus have forced several churches to close, instigated by brahmins afraid that scheduled castes and other backward communities will be converted".

Varanasi (AsiaNews)  Christian Churches in eastern Uttar Pradesh gathered on Saturday in Varanasi, the holy city of Hinduism, for a great "peace rally" because of Christian persecution, said Rev David. This problem affects especially the District of Varanasi where right-wing Hindus have forced hundreds of house churches to close,.

Rev Nehemiah Christie, an activist with the Alliance Defending Freedom, an India-wide Christian network, noted that the rally was successful.

Christians came out to speak up against the oppression and violence with more than 1,100 people attending the peace rally on 1st December against anti-Christian persecution.

Those present rallied for peace, expressing solidarity with the persecuted churches. They also demanded from the government that church services be allowed to start again and that Article 25 of the Constitution on freedom of religion be upheld.

The meeting was important because Uttar Pradeshs chief minister, Yogi Adityanath, a guru, has expressed notoriously negative views of Christians and other religious minorities.

In the past he has criticised Mother Teresa of Kolkata and in November he decided to ban Muslims from praying in the Taj Mahal mosque.

Varanasi "is the spiritual and religious capital of India, said Rev David. Unfortunately, Most of the cases of persecution have taken place around the district of Varanasi.

In the main city of Varanasi one of the very old Methodist churches was also attacked by right wing Hindus.

For the clergyman, Churches are being attacked because high caste Brahmins think that the all scheduled castes and other backward communities will be converted. They look at it as a threat. Because then they cannot take advantage of these communities.

According to Christian NGOs monitoring anti-Christian persecution in India, Uttar Pradesh has recorded the highest number of anti-Christian incidents, 48 out of a total of 95 in the last three months.

More generally, hate crimes against minorities and Dalits have increased in India over the past three years, including rape and lynching, all this done in the name of religion.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 3)  President Rodrigo Duterte would not pardon the policemen involved in the killing of a teenager in Caloocan.

This, when the President was asked if he would pardon the three policemen who were found guilty of murdering 17-year-old Kian delos Santos during an anti-drug operation in August.

Without any hesitation, Duterte said, "No, of course not."

He said pardon may come in a million years or longer.

"Kung (If) one billion years, okay na," he said.

On November 29, Caloocan Regional Trial Court Branch 125 presiding Judge Rodolfo Azucena sentenced Police Officer (PO) 3 Arnel Oares, PO1 Jeremias Pereda, and PO1 Jerwin Cruz to 40-year imprisonment without parole. The suspects were also ordered to pay P345,000 in damages to Kian's family.

The court ruled that the actions of the three police officers were "immediately cloaked with impunity" to ensure Kian will be killed because there was no opportunity for the minor to defend himself.

This guilty verdict marks the first conviction under President Rodrigo Duterte's unrelenting war against illegal drugs. His administration's drug war has left more than 4,900 killed in various police operations. Human rights groups pegged the number to go way beyond 12,000.

CNN Philippines senior digital producers Pia Garcia and Lara Tan contributed to this report.A documentary casts shadows on a 2012 farm labour agreement between Thailand and Israel, which has benefitted more than 25,000 Thai workers. According to the documentary, 172 migrants have died working in Israel, in many cases for unknown causes. Israel blames the Brugada syndrome.

Bangkok (AsiaNews/Agencies)  Thai farm workers in Israel are forced to live in poor housing, are exposed to dangerous chemical, subject to unhealthy working conditions and are exploited, threatening their health, this according to a documentary, cited by foreign media. For the Israeli government, this image is distorted.

The claims were made public on 24 November, sparking controversy in Thailand. Israel responded five days later with a joint statement issued by the ministries of Health, Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, Welfare, and the Population and Immigration Authority.

The statement noted that the authorities employ professional enforcement units [. . .] to supervise the employment of foreign workers, workplace safety, health and compliance with the states labour laws.

It goes on to say that The state obligates workers and employers to carry out training, to enforce hygiene and safety regulations and to employ necessary protection measures.

Israel and Thailand signed an agricultural labour deal in 2012 to enrol Thai workers to work on Israeli farms.

The Thailand-Israel Cooperation on the Placement of Workers (TIC) agreement was implemented in cooperation with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).

Today there are some 25,000 workers in the country, and their rights are protected under Israeli law.

According to a documentary however, 172 Thai workers died because of poor working conditions, and in many cases the causes were unknown.

Israels Public Health Services in cooperation with the National Institute of Forensic Medicine investigated the matter, Israels Health Ministry said, confirming the hypothesis that their death was a result of the Brugada syndrome.

In a statement yesterday, the Israeli embassy in Bangkok reiterated that IOM received positive answers from Thai workers in Israel when it visited them in November.

When asked about their treatment, workers expressed high a level of satisfaction, with 95 per cent describing the agreement as "good to excellent".Khadim Hussain Rizvi is the head of the radical party Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan that fomented hatred against Asia Bibi. Party leaders responsible for the devastation of public property risk being sentenced to life imprisonment.

Islamabad (AsiaNews / Agencies) - Khadim Hussain Rizvi, Islamic radical and leader of the fundamentalist party Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (Tlp) is accused of terrorism and riot. This was announced by Fawad Chaudhry, Minister of Information in Pakistan, on December 1st. The Islamic religious, arrested by the Pakistani police last November 23, is blamed along with other members of his party of having fomented hatred throughout the country, following the acquittal of Asia Bibi, the Christian woman exonerated from the accusation of blasphemy.

Minister Chaudhry explained that the arrest and the indictment are due to the violent protests organized by the Tlp party. Following the reading of Asia's acquittal sentence, Rizvi and other Islamic radicals called for rebellion against the head of the army, to assassinate the judges of the Supreme Court and labeled Prime Minister Imran Khan as "son of the Jews". All these actions, the minister said, could lead to "a life sentence".

For days the fundamentalists have blocked the main cities of Pakistan, created sit-ins and marches, prevented the circulation of cars and means of transport, burned tires and motorcycles. According to government estimates, all the suspects are "directly involved in the destruction of property of the State for a value of 50 million rupees [almost 320 thousand euro, ed]".

Chaudhry revealed that a total of 2,899 people were placed in custody in Punjab; another 139 in Sindh; 126 protesters in Islamabad. Of those arrested, he added, "there are also many detained" who are not involved in the devastation. All the others, "if they were to be found guilty by the courts, they risk spending the rest of their life in prison".

To avoid that protests from the major cities spreading to the countryside and from there in every corner of the country, Prime Minister Khan has come to terms with the Tlp. The agreement provides for the revision of the acquittal sentence for Asia, who cannot leave Pakistan and remains hidden in a secret location. Finally, Minister Chaudhry declared that "the government is not opposed to demonstrations to protect people's rights, but the state cannot remain silent against protests that violate the rights and go beyond the limits set by the Constitution and laws".Doha withdraws membership from the oil exporting countries as of January 2019. The emirate will continue to comply with production commitments like other non-OPEC nations. The choice is the result of an industrial plan, untied by the dispute in progress with Saudi Arabia.

Doha (AsiaNews / Agencies) - Qatar intends to abandon the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) from January next year announced Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi today. He added the decision is not dictated by the dispute that has been going on for over a year between Doha and Riyadh. Rather, it is a choice in perspective of an energetic, economic and strategic nature.

Doha - one of the smallest oil producers, but at the same time the world's largest exporter of natural gas - wants to strengthen its international position in the energy sector. At the same time, the leaders of the country are working out a new long-term strategy that intends to focus on the gas industry.

In a press conference, the Energy Minister explained that "Qatar has decided to withdraw from OPEC starting from January 2019" and "the choice will be announced this morning" to the organization's directors. The Doha representative will still be present at the meeting of the OPEC member countries scheduled in Russia on December 6 and 7, which will discuss - among others - a cut in production.

Minister Saad al-Kaabi explains that it was not an easy choice, given that Qatar was an OPEC member for 57 years, but the impact on production has always been low. He also clarified that Doha will continue to comply with production commitments like all other non-OPEC nations.

The emirate therefore aims to strengthen its position in the natural gas industry, with the aim of increasing production from 77 million to 110 million tons annually. At the same time, the choice is not linked to the economic and diplomatic controversy that, for over a year, has pitted Doha against Saudi Arabia, the latter supported by other Gulf nations and the Muslim world.

According to analysts and experts the Qatar and Saudi Arabia standoff originates from links between Doha and Teheran, which also recently confirmed the reciprocal economic and diplomatic support. In fact, behind the controversy - which has isolated a small emirate in the Gulf area, bringing it closer to the Islamic Republic, Turkey and Morocco - there would be a conflict within Sunni Islam between Doha and Abu Dhabi.

According to some analysts and experts, close Qatari-Iranian relations are the cause of the clash between Qatar and Saudi Arabia. The controversy has isolated a small emirate in the Gulf area, bringing it closer to the Islamic Republic, Turkey and Morocco. In fact, Qatar and Iran recently reiterated their mutual economic and diplomatic support . Others blame the rivalry between Doha and Abu Dhabi among Sunnis for the crisis.by Silvina Premat

Xi Jinping and Donald Trump met on the sidelines of the summit. The US will put on hold import tariffs on Chinese imports for 90 days. If at the end of this period of time, the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the 10% tariffs will be raised to 25%, a White House press release said. Beijing says it will boost US imports to reduce trade imbalance with US.

Buenos Aires (AsiaNews)  The meeting between the presidents of the United States and China, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, on Saturday after the G20 summit in the Argentinian capital has a global reach and will give the world a respite of three months.

Xi and Trump agreed to review the measures of their respective governments that affect trade and technological exchange and promised not to set new tariffs for 1st January. This is akin to a virtual ceasefire in the trade war between them.

The two leaders reached the deal at dinner that had a dozen men dressed in dark suits faced each other at a long table separated by a row of colorful bouquets. The two talked for about two and a half hours in a lounge at Trumps hotel. Two women translated for the two presidents.

According to a White House statement released today, the presidents agreed to hold future talks on structural changes in the areas of forced transfer of technologies, protection of intellectual property, non-customs trade barriers, cyber intrusions and theft, services and agriculture.

Trump decided to put on hold for 90 days, starting on 1st January, the increase in tariffs on Chinese imports that his government had recently set. However, If at the end of this period of time, the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the 10% tariffs will be raised to 25%, said a statement issued by the US press Secretary.

For his part, Xi announced that his country will buy a "very important" quantity of products from the United States to reduce the bilateral trade imbalance.

According to Chinas official news agency, Xinhua, State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who took part in Buenos Aires summit, said that at this meeting both presidents agreed that their countries "can and should "guarantee the success of bilateral relations and that coordination, cooperation and stability must characterise bilateral ties.

Xinhua cited Wang as saying that, during the meeting, the situation on the Korean Peninsula was discussed and China expressed support for a second meeting between Trump and Kim Jong Un, leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, in order to contribute to denuclearisation and the establishment of a peace mechanism in that area.

Trump and Xi Jinping sat at the table, yesterday in Buenos Aires, a year after their meeting in China, during the visit of the American president to China, a day after the White House press office stretched the truth.

After the meeting on Friday morning between President Trump and his Argentinian counterpart Mauricio Macri before the start of the G20, a press release from the US government said that The two leaders reiterated their shared commitment to face regional challenges like Venezuela and predatory Chinese economic activity.

In a clear move to maintain the good relationship with Xi, the Argentinian government denied that such terms were discussed. Argentina and China signed 37 bilateral agreements today, expanding the almost nine billion currency swap with Argentina. For its part, the US government did not clarify the matter.Australias live sheep import trade ships 1.4 million head from Tasmania to Victoria





A STAGGERING number of sheep, up to 1.4 million in the past two years, have been exported live across Bass Strait from Tasmania to Victoria for slaughter and processing to mainland dinner plates, according to figures kept by farmers.

And there are concerns about the number of lambs being killed or injured during the transport.

Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association meat council chairman Chris Gunn said between 500,000 and 700,000 Tasmanian sheep sold each year to JBS Swift are being slaughtered in Victoria since the processor two years ago lost a Coles supply contract.

Mr Gunn said the loss of the Coles contract created a production line supply problem at a JBS Swift abattoir in Victoria, a shortfall fixed by shutting down the sheep processing line at the JBS Swift plant in Longford, Tasmania.

JBS Swift also last month closed its abattoir at Devonport, which processed 3,800 sheep each week, likely adding more livestock for transport to Victoria for slaughter.

Animal welfare concerns

Mr Gunn said that at the same time a number of pull-factors combine to make it more profitable, $15 per head more profitable, for a Tasmanian farmer sell live sheep for processing in Victoria.

More competition for abattoir stock in Victoria increases the price, the only other Tasmanian abattoir cant process more stock and runs at a lower economic scale than mainland processors costing farmers more, and the federal governments Freight Equalisation Scheme subsidises the transport of goods, including the seep, from Tasmania across Bass Strait through the busy Port of Melbourne.

Stock trailers pulled by prime movers collect the sheep from farms then travel to Tasmanias north coast to await loading and shipping to Victoria, unloading and processing through the Port of Melbourne, and road transport again to an abattoir at Colac, 150km away.

They are going into supermarkets around Australia, marketed as Tasmanian lamb, Mr Gunn said.

Mr Gunn said the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association (TFGA) is concerned one, is we are losing jobs out of the red meat processing industry in Tasmania.

Two, is we are concerned that there is a nasty, or a lot of lambs getting seriously injured die during transportation and theres an animal welfare downside.

And three is, if Victoria or NSW build their stock number in the next few years and there is another drought, and we were in a drought situation at the same time too, then getting sheep off our farms to be processed could take a while.

Even at the moment large numbers of lambs and mutton are being killed at the moment, and was a waiting list of up to a month for lambs to leave farmers property.

Now that alright if youve got feed and its a normal season but if you are in a drought situation its a problem maintaining them.

Drought de-stocking risk

Mr Gunn said the lack of processing in Tasmania was costing the state wealth as well as government consideration as sheep slaughtered in Victoria were counted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics as being from that state.

Mr Gunn said the TFGA want to see just one other processor start in Tasmania.

Also in Australian Food NewsRiyadh, Dec 3 (AFP) A UN plane will evacuate 50 wounded Huthi militants from Yemen's rebel-held capital Sanaa on Monday as a "confidence building measure" ahead of planned peace talks in Sweden, a Saudi-led military coalition said.

"A UN chartered plane will arrive at Sanaa international airport Monday to evacuate 50 wounded combatants... three Yemeni doctors and a UN doctor, from Sanaa to Muscat," a coalition spokesman said in a statement carried by the official Saudi Press Agency.

The fate of wounded rebels had been a stumbling block to the start of a previous round of aborted peace talks in September.

The coalition agreed to facilitate the medical evacuations at the request of UN envoy Martin Griffiths for "humanitarian reasons" and as a "confidence building measure", the spokesman added.

Huthi rebels on Thursday said they will attend UN-brokered peace talks in Sweden this week if guarantees to ensure they can leave home and return back are maintained.

Yemen's internationally recognised government, which is also backed by a Saudi-led coalition, has already said it would attend the planned talks in Sweden.

Griffiths has held talks separately in the past few days with officials from both sides as part of efforts to lay the ground work for the peace talks.

In September, a previous round of UN-led talks failed when the Huthis refused to travel to Geneva, accusing the world body of failing to guarantee their delegation's return to Sanaa or secure the evacuation of wounded rebels to Oman.

Previous talks broke down in 2016, when 108 days of negotiations in Kuwait failed to yield a deal and left rebel delegates stranded in Oman for three months.

According to UN figures, nearly 10,000 people have been killed since the coalition joined the conflict in 2015 to bolster Hadi, triggering what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

Rights groups fear the actual toll is far higher. (AFP) GVS

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)The 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy has been one of the worst industrial disasters that killed over five lakh people and even affected the next two generations. A gas leak from the Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) pesticide plant in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh exposed people to deadly methyl isocyanate (MIC) gas. While the toxic substance instantly killed thousands, most who were in their sleep, it left lasting effects on generations to come.

However, survivors of families of those affected have not received full compensations yet. Residents of Bhopal are still fighting for their rights caused by wrongdoings of companies and politicians. After 34 years they may have to face another issue as Dow Chemicals and DuPont companies are going to merge. According to the survivors organisations, this will cause non-existence of the Union Carbide Corporation (UCC) as a legal entity, affecting the claim for people's compensation from Dow Chemicals-owned UCC. 34th Anniversary of Bhopal Gas Tragedy: Survivors Still Continue to Fight for Proper Rehabilitation.

They want the central government to prevent the merger and be held responsible for the disaster. In February, five of these organisations wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi about it but the PMO hasn't replied yet.

A Hindustan Times quoted the letter as saying, "It is a matter of fundamental legal principle that criminal liability cannot be transferred from one entity to another, not even to a succeeding one. Therefore, once Union Carbide ceases to exist in its current form, Indias courts will have been stripped of their power to pursue and enforce the grave criminal charges still pending against it."

In 2010, the central government filed a curative petition in the Supreme Court for victims' compensation, which said that around 5,295 people died and 4,944 suffered serious health issues. However, survivors organisations claim that the number of dead is much higher to those numbers. They said that the number of people affected including the next two generations is more than 5,70,000.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 03, 2018 11:19 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).Lucknow, December 3: Anand Kumar, the Additional Director General (Law and Order) in Uttar Pradesh, said the slain cop Subodh Kumar Singh was leading the investigation into the lynching of Mohammed Akhlaq for about two months. Subodh Kumar Singh and a civilian were killed after a mob went on a rampage in Bulandshahr over an alleged case of cow slaughter.

"It is clarified that Subodh Kumar Singh was the Investigating Officer (IO) of Akhlaq lynching case from 28th September 2015 till 9th November 2015," Anand Kumar said. "A chargesheet was filled in the case by a different IO in March 2016," he added. Singh was instrumental in getting the meat samples to the lab on time.

Mohammed Akhlaq was lynched on September 28, 2017, in Bisahra village in Dadri district by a mob infuriated by rumours that he and his family had stored and consumed beef. According to reports, violence broke out after activists of Hindu Yuva Vahini and Bajrang Dal with an alleged cow carcass gathered on the Bulandshahr-Syana road and pelted stones at the police personnel.

Additional Director General (Meerut zone) Prashant Kumar said the protestors from Mahaw village and nearby areas pelted stones on the police and indulged in arson, setting ablaze several vehicles and Chingarwathi Police Chowki. A police team led by Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh rushed to the scene to pacify the protesters. The mob pelted stones at cops, critically wounding Subodh. The officer was also shot in the head and was declared dead at a community health centre.

Police also said a 20-year-old youth, identified as Sumit, died of gunshot wounds. Sumit, a second-year student, had gone to drop his friend who came to his place to give an invitation and got caught in the violence. According to his family, Sumit was shot in chest. Protesters claimed to have found some body parts of cow and its progeny in a jungle in Mahaw village, and blocked the Bulandshahr-Garh highway. The agitation later turned violent.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who is in Rajasthan for the election campaign, expressed grief over the incident and said strict action will be taken against the guilty after the probe reports are received. He also said financial assistance would be extended to the affected persons.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 03, 2018 09:32 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).Bulandshahr on Edge After Mob Violence Over Illegal Cow Slaughter, Police Inspector Among Two Killed. (Photo Credit: ANI)

Bulandshahr (UP), December 3: Violence broke here on Monday over alleged illegal slaughter of cattle, leaving a police inspector and a youth dead as a mob went on a rampage here torching a police post and clashed with police, which opened fire to control the situation, officials said.

Additional Director General of Meerut zone Prashant Kumar said the protesters from Mahaw village and nearby areas pelted stones on the police and indulged in arson setting several vehicles and the Chingarwathi Police Chowki on fire. Massive Cow 'Knickers' Weighing 1400 Kgs Saved From Slaughterhouse in Australia Because of Its Size, View Pics and Video.

Inspector Subodh Kumar, who was posted at the Syana Police Station, died in the violence, he said, but did not elaborate. Police said a 20-year-old youth, identified as Sumit died of gun-shot wounds.

The trouble started after villagers found some body parts of cow and its progeny in a jungle in Mahaw village, the ADG said. Angry villagers and members of various Hindu groups brought the animal remains in tractor-trolley to the Chingarwathi Police Chowki and demanded action against the culprits.

They raised slogans against the police administration and blocked the Bulandshahr-Garh highway. District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha said police and senior officials tried to reason with the protestors but they refused to budge.

As Sub-divisional Magistrate Avinash Kumar Maurya arrived on the scene, protesters turned violent, pelting stones on policemen and indulging in arson.

District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha said police had to open fire in self-defence.

Meerut Divisional Commissioner Aneeta C Meshram said she was rushing to the spot to take stock of the situation.New Delhi, December 3: The Crime Branch of Delhi Police has made one of the biggest arms busts in the Capital this year. The police officials have arrested two people after conducting a raid at an illegal arms factory in Delhi's Karawal Nagar area. Police personnel has also recovered arms and ammunition from the accused, police said on Monday. A case has been registered against the accused and police is trying to nab other suspects involved in this case. Delhi Police Arrests Three Terrorists of ISJK Group; Arms And Ammunition Recovered.

According to Delhi Police, carbine, cartridges and types of equipment used to manufacture weapons were seized from the arrested. The police team raided the illegal manufacturing unit and arrested two of the weapon manufacturers. A large amount of raw material was also seized from the spot. Assam: 9 Armed Terrorists of NDFB(S) Arrested While Infiltrating Into India From Myanmar.

Delhi police has arrested 2 people after conducting raid at an illegal arms factory in Karawal Nagar area. Carbine, cartridges and equipment to manufacture weapons have been seized from them.  ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2018

Earlier in a similar incident from October, the special cell of police had seized 80 pistols and raw material from illegal weapon factory near Delhi. Police had arrested five people after conducting the raids. The weapon manufacturers belonged to Bihar's Munger. The arrest was made after police recovered 65 pistols from a car in Delhi, during interrogating the occupants, spilled the beans about the factory.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 03, 2018 01:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).Lucknow, December 4: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday declared a compensation of Rs 40 lakh for the wife of slain police inspector Subodh Kumar. The UP government also declared Rs 10 lakh for his parents. CM Yogi Adityanath also said that a government job will be provided to a family member of Police Inspector Subodh Kumar who died in the mob violence in Bulandshahr, reported news agency ANI. Bulandshahr Tense After Villagers Clash With Police Over Alleged Cow Slaughter, Police Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh Among 2 Killed.

Police Inspector Subodh Kumar was attacked and shot dead by a mob protesting against alleged cow slaughter while a young man was gunned down in unexplained circumstances in Uttar Pradesh on Monday.

The violence erupted after members of fringe groups went berserk alleging that some cows had been slaughtered by a community, police said. Enraged, they loaded the carcasses on tractor trolleys and jammed traffic on a busy road.

A police team lead by Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh rushed to the scene to pacify the protesters. Bulandshahr Violence Post Ijtema Pre-Planned? Cow Remains Left in Open to Trigger Communal Tension, Says Report.

He was, however, targeted and the crowd pelted stones at the police personnel, critically wounding the officer. The officer was also shot in the head and was declared dead at a community health centre. Anand Kumar, Uttar Pradesh ADG Law and Order, informed earlier in the day that inspector Subodh Kumar Singh was the investigating officer of Akhlaq lynching case, Dadri from September 28, 2015 till November 9, 2015.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 04, 2018 12:27 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).Mumbai, December 3: Just over a year after he switched to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Narayan Rane hosted Sharad Pawar at his residence in Sindhurdurg district of Konkan on Monday, sparking speculation that he may join the NCP ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. However, the National Congress Party said the meeting was informal.

According to a report, Sharad Pawar spent more than an hour at Narayan Rane's residence. After quitting the Congress last year, Rane launched his own political outfit, Maharashtra Swabhimani Paksha, and supported the BJP. However, the BJP denied him a cabinet berth and instead offered a Rajya Sabha nomination.

While Rane backed the BJP, his two sons, former MP Nilesh Rane and sitting Congress legislator Nitesh Rane have joined the saffron party. "Pawarsaheb is touring Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts, Mr Rane is from there. He invited Pawarsaheb for an informal visit as its on the way. Its too premature to read politics into this," state NCP president Jayant Patil told Hindustan Times.

There are speculations that Nilesh Rane may seek ticket from the NCP or their support to contest the next general election from the Ratnagiri-Sindhurdurg Lok Sabha seat. He was defeated by Shiv Senas Vinayak Raut in 2014 from the constituency. However, Nitesh Rane, who was present when Pawar paid the visit, ruled out the possibility of joining the NCP.

"Neither my brother nor I are planning to join NCP or contest on their party ticket as we have our party. However, the decision on whom our party could align with is still open and not a foregone conclusion," Nitesh was quoted as saying.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 03, 2018 09:09 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).Conference Wrap: China Food Regulatory Conference Oceania 2018





WITH Australian food exports to China showing steady growth, ChemLinkeds China Food Regulatory Conference brought insightful analysis on the latest food regulatory trends and outcomes from China to Australia.

ChemLinked is an Asia-Pacific regulatory information platform, a product of REACH24H Consulting Group. The conference was its first offline China food & cosmetic seminar in Melbourne.

Amongst topics covered at the event, special foods took centre stage. This is due to the product categorys dynamic growth in China as well as the ever tightening regulatory requirements for market access.

Within the special food category, product types such as infant formula, health food, and food for special medical purpose (FSMP) were highlighted in presentations by ChemLinkeds speakers.

Subsequent topics on CNCA registration, China Food Safety Law (FSL) rules of implementation and food contact materials further detailed Chinas food supervision system and notable aspects of compliance for all food product categories intended for the China market.

The conference was organised in collaboration with Complementary Medicines Australia (CMA), the Australian Institute of Food Science & Technology and Australia-China Business Council (ACBC).

Also in Australian Food News

Raising the bar for China infant formula registration

Maxwell Heston, a regulatory compliance specialist with REACH24H, delivered two presentations on China FSL implementation rules and a comprehensive compliance guide to successful infant formula registration in China.

As Chinas food market continues to rapidly evolve, so does the strictness of food safety requirements within Chinas supervisory system, albeit at a much slower pace.

Within special food category, infant formula has had the most embattled past with food safety in China, in particular citing the 2008 Sanlu melamine scandal. To revive its domestic market and ensure safety for consumers, Chinese authorities have consistently implemented higher quality and sanitary standards for infant formula.

Now the keys to successful formula registration lie in providing evidence that your enterprise has adequate R&D capacity to formulate a recipe that is not only scientifically based and compliant with product requirements but also distinct from other formulas in the market.

Furthermore, on-site inspection of R&D capacity is now a pre-requisite to registration approval, previously this would be conducted after registration approval.

A growing interest in health food

Food regulatory technical expert Yu Yuanzhao discussed the growing trend of overseas health food exported to China. Another sub-category within Chinas special foods, health food from Oceania is in very high demand from Chinese consumers due to a strong perception of quality associated with the Australia brand.

Yuanzhaos presentation laid out the two existing management systems for health food: filing for health foods that supplement nutritional intake i.e. vitamins and minerals and registration for health food claiming a specific function to help regulate the bodys health.

Many of the regulations and requirements for both systems are currently under revision and we expect official implementation to be carried out within the next few years.

High Time for FSMP

Up to now, 18 food for special medical purpose (FSMP) products have been successfully registered in China by both domestic and overseas enterprises.

However, currently revisions to the implementation rules for domestic FSMP production are underway with industry awaiting their release.

This means, at present, domestic FSMP manufacturers are not allowed to produce FSMP as they lack the required production certificate irrespective of their product formula already gaining approval.

To this Yuanzhao noted, This unprecedented situation offers a considerable advantage for overseas enterprises.

If we consider the current supply gap of domestic FSMP product in addition with extension of CBEC grace period into 2019 allowing unregistered overseas FSMPs to continue to be sold online, this is a great time and place for Australian special food manufacturers to enter the China market.

Extending the grace period for cross-border e-commerce (CBEC)

Unlike general trade, CBEC channels do not require registration of special food products. Therefore, a heavily discussed topic this past year in the food industry was whether Chinas CBEC channels would implement registration of special foods as a pre-market requirement.

In recent years, the Chinese government announced a few times this ensuing change in policy, but have yet to formally set a date for official implementation. The recent announcement this past week to yet again extend the CBEC grace period, allowing unregistered special foods to continue to utilize CBEC channels, is a most advantageous opportunity for Australian exporters of special foods in gaining unfettered access to the Chinese market.

Chemlinked is expected to continue this successful first landing in Oceania, and will be organising follow-up seminars on food in 2019.

No reference guide for animal testing

A heated topic nowadays is the requirement for animal testing. An interesting development was shared by Yuanzhao, who explained that currently the health food registration policy has reached an impasse due to the repeal of the Technical Specification for Health Food Testing and Evaluation earlier this year.

Therefore, as there is currently no reference to guide the industry in the requirement for animal testing and clinical trials, this leaves the door open to more optimistic developments in this field.

About Chemlinked and REACH24H:

REACH24H is an internationally renowned technological services company with its headquarters in Hangzhou, China and branches in Dublin, Washington D.C, and Taiwan. The company has a number of internationally certified toxicologists, specialised safety appraisers, and risk assessment experts who provide first level consulting services on chemicals, agrochemicals, food, cosmetics and consumer products.

ChemLinked was created by REACH24H to provide professionals across the globe with highly reliable, timely and easily understandable food, chemical, cosmetic and agrochemical market access information and help our clients products enter and stay in Chinese and AP markets. Chemlinked focuses on analysing past, current and pending regulatory and legislative changes, compiling need-to-know substance/ingredient inventories, interpreting and forecasting regulatory trends, reporting regulatory, industry and market news, compiling expert reports and curating its own comprehensive database of Chinese and AP region legislation and regulations.Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Leader of the Opposition Ramesh Chennithala were Monday involved in a war of words in the state assembly over the Sabarimala Temple issue, leading to disruption of House proceedings for the fourth day. Three UDF MLAs also began an indefinite 'Satyagraha' at the entrance of the House on the issue. As the war of words continued and Congress-led Opposition UDF MLAs began shouting slogans, the House was adjourned for the fourth day by Speaker P Sreeramakrishann. Unlike previous days, the House even saw CPI(M)-led LDF members standing up from their seats and locking horns with opposition members, prompting the Speaker to warn both sides.

As soon as the Question Hour began, Chennithala informed the Speaker that the opposition was ready to cooperate in conducting House proceedings. He said three MLAs-V S Sivakumar (Congress), Parakkal Abdullah (IUML) and N Jayaraj (KC-M)-will observe an indefinite 'Satyagraha' at the portals of the Assembly as the government had not withdrawn prohibitory orders at Sabarimala and also demanding more facilities for pilgrims. The chief minister said he had thought the opposition would make such an announcement earlier itself in the light of the BJP having decided to shift its agitation in front of the Secretariat from Monday. Sabarimala Temple Row: Two Women Attempt to Visit Lord Ayyappa Shrine Without Police Protection, Return After Protests.

#WATCH: The opposition protests in Kerala state assembly over the matter of #Sabarimala. The assembly has been adjourned for the day, following the protest. #Kerala pic.twitter.com/GfBgokHFim  ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2018

"This is a collusion between the Congress and BJP-RSS and a belated awakening," Vijayan said. While the BJP was agitating in front of the secretariat, the Congress-led UDF MLAs were observing a 'Satyagraha' at the Assembly, he said. Taking a dig at the UDF, Vijayan even said they were following the stand taken by BJP chief Amit Shah rather than that of their leader Rahul Gandhi on the Sabarimala issue.

Hitting back at Vijayan, Chennithala said the opposition does not need the chief minister's permission to decide when to launch their agitation. He alleged RSS leader Valsan Thillankeri had been "given charge of the home department" at Sabarimala to control the frenzied devotees last month when a 52-year-old woman was attacked at the hill shrine. The leader also alleged an RSS outfit had been given charge of "Annadanam", the free meal scheme at Sabarimala and C P Sugathan, who had protested against entry of young women, had been made joint convener of the 'Women's Wall', planned by the LDF government on January 1.

Stung by the chief minister's allegations, opposition members trooped to the well of the House and placed a black banner in front of the Speaker's dais blocking his vision. As they did not heed to the Speaker's repeated requests to go back to their seats and continued to raise slogans against the chief minister, some angry members of the treasury bench even attempted to move to the well of the House but were dissuaded from doing so by the other ruling Front members. An angry Speaker hurriedly scrapped the submission and calling attention motions, took up other businesses and adjourned the House for the day within 21 minutes.

Opposition members later moved out of the assembly hall raising slogans. The three MLAs later began the indefinite 'Satyagraha' at the portals of the assembly demanding the withdrawal of prohibitory orders and other restrictions imposed by the police in and around the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala. Chennithala later told reporters the chief minister had allegedly passed on a chit to the Speaker asking him to stop the House proceedings to prevent the opposition from raising nepotism charges against local administration minister K T Jaleel.

The hill shrine of Lord Ayyappa has been witnessing protests by devotees and right-wing activists against the CPI(M)-led LDF government's decision to implement the Supreme Court's September 28 verdict permitting women of all age groups to offer prayers at the temple.Poland is hosting the biggest climate change event in years, with scientists, diplomats and leaders congregating on its city of Katowice for UNs COP24.

The agenda for the UNs 24th conference of the parties, or COP24, is to hammer out how to achieve the climate goals established during the Paris Climate Agreement three years ago. Countries at the Paris climate agreement set out plans to keep global warming below a target threshold of well below 2 degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with a target to limit the increase to 1.5 degree Celsius. The document has been ratified by 184 countries.

In order for countries to achieve their Paris climate goals they need to flesh out the framework which is what COP24 is about. The Paris rulebook negotiated in Katowice will spell out how countries track and report their efforts to tackle climate change, how progress is assessed and how they will strengthen their efforts over time.

In an unprecedented development, negotiators at Katowice convened a day early because they are under pressure to make progress.

The start of the negotiations was marked by four former UN climate talks presidents issuing a statement on Sunday, calling for urgent action. The statement was issued by Frank Bainimarama of Fiji, Salaheddine Mezouar of Morocco, Laurent Fabius of France and Manuel Pulgar Vidal of Peru. They said, "decisive action in the next two years will be crucial".

"What ministers and other leaders say and do in Katowice at COP24 will help determine efforts for years to come and either bring the world closer to meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement - including protecting those most vulnerable to climate change - or push action further down the road.

"Any delay will only make it harder and more expensive to respond to climate change."

This conference also comes in the backdrop of a UN report which says that CO2 emissions are on the rise after stabilising for the past few years which would make limiting temperature increase impossible to achieve. The UN's environment programme said the voluntary national contributions agreed in Paris would have to triple if the world was to cap global warming below 2 degree C. For 1.5 degree C, they must increase five-fold.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 03, 2018 05:03 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).Islamabad, December 3: Pakistan said on Monday that US President Donald Trump has written a letter to Prime Minister Imran Khan seeking Islamabad's assistance in the Afghan peace process.

In the letter, Trump asked Pakistan to play its role in Afghan peace talks aimed at catalyzing an end to the 17-year invasion of Afghanistan by US troops, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement.

According to the ministry, Trump recognized that the war came at a significant cost for his country as well as for Pakistan, and underlined that both countries should explore ways to work together. Afghan Taliban Prepare for Peace Talks with US.

"The US decision is welcomed. Pakistan reiterates its commitment to play a facilitation role in good faith," said the statement.

The Pakistani Prime Minister confirmed he received a letter from Trump earlier in the day. He said that Islamabad had been apologetic in its relations with the US but his government has dealt with the country on equal terms. He assured that Pakistan would play any role possible for peace in Afghanistan.

The US leader's plea to Khan came two weeks after the former had accused Islamabad of sheltering Osama Bin Laden. Trump had said that despite paying the country $1.3 billion, Islamabad had done nothing for Washington. Khan had rejected Trump's accusations and claimed the US was using his country as a scapegoat for its failures in Afghanistan.

In January, the US had announced the suspension of a large part of its security aid to Pakistan until it took decisive measures against terror groups on its soil, such as the Taliban. The US and Afghanistan for years have accused Pakistan of providing shelter to the Taliban's Haqqani network, a claim Islamabad denies.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 03, 2018 08:29 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).The gulf nation of Qatar has announced that it is withdrawing its membership from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). The withdrawal will be effective come January 2019.

This massive development was announced by Qatar's Energy Minister Saad Sherida al-Kaabi at a news conference in the countrys capital Doha. The Energy Minister while announcing this decision said, the withdrawal decision reflects Qatar's desire to focus its efforts on plans to develop and increase its natural gas production from 77 million tons per year to 110 million tons in the coming years."

H.E. Mr. Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, announced Qatars withdrawal from OPEC at a press conference in Doha and said the organization was informed.  Qatar Petroleum (@qatarpetroleum) December 3, 2018

The OPEC is a grouping of 15 oil producing nations -- Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Venezuela, Qatar, Indonesia, Libya, the United Arab Emirates, Algeria, Nigeria, Ecuador, Gabon, Angola, Equatorial Guinea and Congo. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is by far the largest crude oil producer among OPEC members. According to current estimates, OPEC nations have 81.89% of the world's proven oil reserves, with the bulk of OPEC oil reserves in the Middle East, amounting to 65.36% of the OPEC total.

Though Qatar says its decision to quit the grouping is not political, this development has a broader geopolitical context.

Natural Gas

Qatar is the world's biggest supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG), producing almost 30 percent of the world's consumption of natural gas. Al-Kaabi explained the decision to quit as: "Achieving our ambitious growth strategy will undoubtedly require focused efforts, commitment and dedication to maintain and strengthen Qatar's position as the leading natural gas producer." Qatar shares its natural gas field, the North Field, also currently the worlds largest known natural gas field with Iran.

Unlike oil prices, prices of natural gas are subject to market supply and demand. As the world moves towards cleaner fuel, natural gas is the future.

The Blockade

Qatar was put under an economic blockade by Saudi Arabia and its allies  UAE, Bahrain and Egypt, almost a year ago. The countries accused Qatar of supporting terrorist organisations and with co-operating with Iran, their sworn enemy. Qatar rejected these charges but Saudi Arabia was supported in its decision by the U.S.

Since then Qatar has distanced itself from most Gulf initiatives.

Oil Prices

The OPEC, effectively led by Saudi Arabia due to its production clout, is being pressured by the Trump Administration to keep a cap on crude prices even though this has massively hurt the economies of the Gulf countries. The OPEC countries have also been asked to increase production to replace Iranian crude after the US re-imposed sanctions on Iran in November.

Jamal Khashoggi

Saudi Arabia has come in for great flak for the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in its consulate in Turkey. The Kingdoms leadership is being questioned and many have called for sanctions against Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Though the U.S. is standing by its Middle East ally, it seems Qatar has decided to strike out on its own rather than operate in a grouping that is being pseudo-controlled by the U.S. through Riyadh.

Qatars decision comes as OPEC and non-OPEC members are due to meet in Vienna, Austria on December 6, with the aim of reaching an accord over possible output cuts as oil prices have again taken a nose-dive.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 03, 2018 01:08 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).As the Taliban is resurgent across Afghanistan, the U.S. has dealt a blow to the outfit by killing one its senior most commander in charge of the province of Helmand. Mullah Abdul Manan Akhund was the "governor" and military chief for the southern Helmand province.

Abdul Manan was killed in a US airstrike over the weekend. Manan's death was confirmed by the Taliban who in a statement described it as a "big loss" for the group but vowed to continue their offensive against the Afghan government.

Afghan interior ministry spokesman Najib Danish said Manan was the militants' top military leader in southern Afghanistan and his death was a major blow to the Taliban outfit. "His death will lower the moral of the enemy, and result in (the) improvement of security in Helmand and other southern provinces," Najib Danish told AFP.

Danish said that 32 other Taliban fighters were also killed in the airstrike.

A US force spokesman in Afghanistan confirmed their airstrike had killed the Taliban shadow governor. "The Taliban should consider intensifying peace talks, not the fight. They're going to have trouble intensifying the fight when their fighters and leaders are under constant assault," Col. Dave Butler said in a statement.

Abdul Manan was on the blacklist unveiled mid-October by the Riyadh-based Terrorist Financing Targeting Center (TFTC), which imposed financial sanctions on nine individuals, including six Taliban members.

However the Taliban is the strongest it has been since US-coalition forces toppled the Taliban government in 2001. In its quarterly report for the US Congress, the Special Inspector General for Afghan Reconstruction (SIGAR) said the Afghan government currently controls or influences only 55.5% of the country's districts, marking the lowest level recorded since SIGAR began tracking district control in November 2015. Insurgent influence or control has risen to 12.5% of districts from just 7% three years ago and approximately a third of Afghanistan is a "contested" area.

The Taliban has focused its offensives in Afghanistans opium-rich province in recent years in order to ensure funding for its operations. Abdul Manan led the Talibans offensive in Helmand which currently supplies 44% of Afghanistans poppy crop. In the wartorn province, the current poppy cultivation area is almost 79% covering 144,000 hectares.

John Spoko, former Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction had concluded almost six years ago that the, The narcotics trade poisons the Afghan financial sector and fuels a growing illicit economy. This, in turn, undermines the Afghan states legitimacy by stoking corruption, nourishing criminal networks and providing significant financial support to the Taliban and other insurgent groups, and the US operations for now have not found an answer to this in Afghanistan.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 03, 2018 05:43 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).Feeding cities in the 21st century: why urban-fringe farming is vital for food resilience





WHEN you pick up supplies at your local supermarket for tonights dinner, the produce will likely have come from many parts of Australia and from distant parts of the world. But some of the fresh produce may also have come from one of the highly productive foodbowls on the fringes of Australias state capitals.

The role that city fringe farmers play in feeding cities is sometimes overlooked in an era of sophisticated supply chains that enable food to be sourced from all over the world. But city foodbowls make a significant contribution to Australias fresh food supplies, and cities can do more to support them.



Foodprint Melbourne

Also in Australian Food News

Why being close to cities makes sense

Many cities now recognise the need to strengthen relationships with local farmers as a way to increase the resilience of their food supplies to climate change and make efficient use of scarce natural resources.

Retaining food production close to urban areas can reduce food shortages if transport routes into the city are cut off (for example, by a major storm or flood). Recycled water from city water treatment plants can also be used to grow food during a drought, and food waste can be processed into organic fertilisers for use on nearby farms.

Strengthening links between cities and farms on the fringe can improve farmer livelihoods and grow the local economy.

Farmers on the city fringe are caught in a tight cost price squeeze with very high land prices (and rates) and low farm-gate prices. Many are small-scale farmers who find it difficult to compete through economies of scale. But there are also advantages to being close to the city, such as the proximity to city markets and access to recycled water.

The Foodprint Melbourne project has just released an infographic that showcases the mutually beneficial relationships that can be developed between cities and the farmers on their fringes. These ideas were developed in workshops that brought Victorian stakeholders together from across sectors (farmers, industry, local government, state government and civil society) to explore how the viability of farming on Melbournes fringe could be strengthened.

The infographic shows how strong links between cities and local farmers can create a two-way exchange. Farmers can capture a higher share of the food retail dollar by selling direct to local consumers (through farmers markets or community-supported agriculture) or local businesses (such as cafes and restaurants). City residents benefit from access to fresh, local produce and from opportunities to participate in agri-tourism activities on nearby farms (such as pick your own produce and farm-gate bike trails).

Food from Melbournes foodbowl can also be sold directly to local families, shops and restaurants in the city, in addition to being transported interstate and overseas via city airports. A new provenance brand could be introduced so consumers and businesses can easily recognise food from the area and support local farmers.

State and local governments could introduce food procurement standards so that government services, such as hospitals, prisons and meals on wheels programs, are encouraged to buy food from Victorian farmers. Government food procurement standards like these are already used in other countries, such as the United States and Canada.

Farmer incubators could be established to help new farmers access land and begin farming on the city fringe, mentored by experienced growers. Farmer-owned food-processing co-operatives could enable these growers to add value to their produce and take greater control of the food supply chain.



Foodprint Melbourne

How to encourage city fringe farms to thrive

Cities around the world now recognise the importance of actively strengthening links with farmers on the city fringe. The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation has released a city region food system toolkit that supports cities in building closer links with nearby farmers to improve farmer livelihoods, grow local economies and increase access to healthy, sustainable food.

A key step is to provide certainty about the future of farming areas close to cities by introducing laws that protect them for the long term. The city of Portland, Oregon, for instance, has created rural reserves that protect important farming areas for at least 50 years.

Measures to promote the viability of farming are equally important. In Ontario, the provincial government funds the Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation to promote farming, tourism and conservation in the agricultural area surrounding Toronto.

The links between cities and the farmers on their fringes have weakened as modern food supply chains have developed, but there is renewed interest among consumers in reconnecting with where their food comes from.

To improve access to locally grown food and increase the resilience of food systems to climate change, we need to build mutually supportive relationships between cities and the growers on their fringes, so that farms thrive as our cities grow.

AUTHORS: Rachel Carey, Research Fellow, University of Melbourne; Jennifer Sheridan, Researcher in sustainable food systems, University of Melbourne, and Kirsten Larsen, Manager, Food Systems Research and Partnerships, University of Melbourne

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.Ground-breaking healthy options hospital sets new standard on hospital cafe menus





THE first Australian hospital to ban fatty and sugary food and drink from its cafeteria is leading the way again in the fight against lifestyle-related disease with a ground-breaking menu for hospital cafe menus.

Western District Health Service in Hamilton, Victoria, has opted for a menu that is purely green traffic light food only under the Healthy Choices program.

Introduced in 2016 as a voluntary framework for Victorian public hospitals, it recognised green, amber and red traffic light foods  categorised by the health value of those foods.

While many hospitals have adopted the traffic light system, Hamilton is the first to offer green-only foods.

Lifestyle-related diseases including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity and high blood pressure are all a major drain on the hospital system.

Educate patients

Chief executive of the Hamilton hospital Rohan Fitzgerald says the move supporting healthy food choices is part of a broader drive to educate and make healthy choices easier for patients and their families.

Weve spoken to the Department of Health and Human Services, and we know there is no other health service that has met this level of meeting the healthy eating guidelines, says Mr Fitzgerald.

This has been a three-year journey. We were the first hospital in Australia to remove sugary drinks in 2012.

We also publicly petitioned government for a sugar tax, since evidence from the Grattan Report backed this as a method to improve public health.

Also in Australian Food News

In 2017, hospitals came under a blanket ban on sugary drinks in their cafeterias. This was one element of the Healthy Choices in Health Facilities policy introduced by NSW Health.

The policy imposed a rule of 25 per cent maximum of a cafeteria or vending machine offerings being defined as junk food.

At that time, NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant referred to the goal of a 5 per cent reduction in overweight and obese adults by 2020 as the driving reason for the new rules.

Mr Fitzgerald is confident the gradual introduction of healthy living initiatives in Hamilton has prepared the community for the green-light menu in the hospital.

Seventy per cent of people in the Western Region of Victoria are overweight and obese, which is much higher than the national average which is approximately 66 per cent according to Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports, he says.

The obesity rates for young people in our area are also much higher than the national average. That was a strong indicator that as a community we needed to make a change.

Menu innovation

As far as developing a menu that offered healthy foods without sacrificing flavour nor eradicating all existing options, Mr Fitzgerald praises the creativity of their chefs and also acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government.

Weve got some really innovative chefs in our organisation, Mr Fitzgerald says.

Weve had to revisit 150 menu options and focus on reducing fat, sugar and salt content.

Weve had to look at what we can substitute to meet the green light standards. So, everything on the menu goes through a Food Checker, developed by the Victorian Government and also the Healthy Eating Advisory Service.November 2018 is a crucial month that Nigerians will remember for a long time to come. Nigeria has been facing heavy security challenges for several years back. But it became enormous with the emergence of Boko Haram insurgency.

In 2015, President Muhammadu Buhari emerged as the president of the most populous black nation, defeating the incumbent Goodluck Jonathan. As a former military man, he promised to tackle the security challenges; and hopes were high.

Three years into his administration, the president claimed the Boko Haram terrorists had been technically defeated; 17 local governments occupied by the terrorists had been reclaimed.

Though there were still few bombings, it thus looked like the Buhari-led government was winning the insurgency war, until November 2018.

Meanwhile, as the Buhari-led government focused on the insurgency war, the age-long crisis between herdsmen and farmers also grew wings; posing a greater threat to the countrys unity. Armed robbery, Kidnappings and other forms of political violence also continue unabated.

Within seven days in November, from 17 to 23, Nigeria recorded gruesome killings that left even the president shocked; albeit, with a renewed determination and promise to end the killings; particularly by the Boko Haram insurgents.

Below is a timeline of some of the most significant incidents of political violence in Nigeria from November 17 to 23, 2018.

READ ALSO: Why Atiku did not travel to US - Sources

November 17: Boko Haram kidnapped 50 loggers in Ngala, Borno

Boko Haram insurgents abducted around 50 loggers in Northeastern Nigeria close to the border with Cameroon, civilian militia and residents disclosed. The hostages who were mostly from a camp for people displaced by jihadist violence were on Saturday, November 17, rounded up by fighters loyal to factional leader Abubakar Shekau while collecting wood.

The men were rounded up and taken away by Boko Haram insurgents and nothing has been heard from them, militia leader Umar Kachalla said.

Two of the loggers escaped and returned home and broke the news. We dont have a precise number of those taken but usually the loggers move in a group of more than 50 men, Kachalla said.

November 1821: Boko Haram killed 118 Nigerian soldiers at army bases in Guzamala, Borno

In what has been dubbed the Metele attack by the Nigerian media, the Islamic State faction of the Boko Haram launched a deadly attack killing scores of soldiers. While some media reports alleged that over 70 soldiers were killed, the terrorist group claimed it killed 118 soldiers in the attack.

On Friday, November 23, the Nigerian Army confirmed that there was an attack on Metele on November 18, but described the casualty figures being reported as false and various footages in circulation as old and inaccurate BHT (Boko Haram Terrorist) propaganda videos.

November 19: Boko Haram killed nine farmers and abducted twelve in Maiduguri, Borno

Boko Haram members on Monday, November 19, killed nine farmers and abducted 12 others in a village in the northeastern Nigerian state of Borno.

They stormed fields outside Mammanti village, opening fire on farmers as they worked, killing nine and injuring three others.

We recovered nine dead bodies after the attack, the village chief Muhammad Mammanti said.

The insurgents took away 12 people, including women, and macheted three people who resisted being abducted, Mammanti added.

November 19: Gunmen abducted the Plateau monarch in Shendam, Plateau

In the late hours of Monday, November 19, some unknown gunmen kidnapped the traditional ruler of Long Dorok Chiefdom in Shendam local government area of Plateau state, David Isa.

Former councilor in Dorok community, Leo Densak disclosed the abduction of the second class monarch. He said the gunmen numbering over 10 stormed the monarchs house on Monday night at about 8pm and whisked him away to an unknown destination while shooting indiscriminately.

November 19: Armed robbers killed two policemen and two others in Ijero, Ekiti

Also on Monday, November 19, the police in Ekiti confirmed the killing of four persons during a robbery attack on a bank in Ijero-Ekiti.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quoted a source as saying the robbers invaded the town at about a few minutes to 6pm.

They were said to have first driven to the police station where they attacked the officers on duty before heading to the bank in an ambulance containing a casket loaded with guns.

Two policemen, a bank security guard and an aged man were said to have been killed in the attack.

PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigerias #1 news app

November 20: Sectarian violence led to ten deaths in Safana, Katsina

On Tuesday, November 20, not fewer than 10 people also reportedly lost their lives in a clash between herdsmen and farmers in Safana local government area of Katsina state.

November 21: The Nigerian army announced that, in operations taking place since October, they had killed fourteen bandits in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna

In a counter-effort to restore peace and order, the troops of the Nigerian Army deployed in Operation Whirl Punch announced that they have killed 14 suspected bandits and other criminals since the military launched the operation in October.

The acting director of Defence Information, Brigadier General John Agim, disclosed this during a press briefing at the 1 Division Nigerian Army Headquarters in Kaduna.

So far, in this operation, 14 notorious bandits, cattle rustlers and kidnappers have been neutralised, he said.

Likewise, several assorted sophisticated arms, ammunition and large herds of cattle have been recovered from the bandits, kidnappers and cattle rustlers.

November 22: Boko Haram killed eight at a French drilling camp in Toumour, Niger

Seven local employees of a French drilling firm and a government official were killed on Thursday, November 22, when suspected Boko Haram gunmen stormed the compound where they were sleeping in southeastern Niger.

The attack shattered months of relative calm in the Diffa region near the Lake Chad basin, a strategic area where the borders of four countries converge.

The victims, all Nigerien, were shot dead at a site in Toumour, a village near the border with Nigeria where they had been drilling two deep-water wells to improve conditions for displaced people at a local refugee camp.

November 23: Boko Haram kidnapped fifteen girls in Toumour, Niger

On Friday, November 23, suspected Boko Haram gunmen kidnapped 15 girls overnight in a village near Toumour, southeastern Niger Republic, the local mayor said on Saturday, November 24.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN), Boukar Mani Orthe, the mayor of the town in Nigers Diffa region near the border with Nigeria, said about 50 armed men seized the girls in a village about nine kilometres from the town centre.

November 23: Two policemen and four others were killed during an IPOB protest in Nnewi North, Anambra

Two policemen and four others believed to be members of the Indigenous People of Biafra on Friday, November 23, died during IPOBs protest in Nnewi, Anambra state.

But the Anambra police command said only a policeman died in the protest while a Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in the area was hospitalised following injuries sustained in the clash.

November 23: The Nigerian army announced that, in operations taking place over the last three weeks, they had killed 17 militiamen in Ukum, Katsina-Ala, and Vandeikya LGAs in Benue

Also on Friday, November 23, troops of the Nigerian Army engaged militiamen and gangs disturbing the peace in communities in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba states, killing 17 and arresting 83 suspects.

The troops, who were deployed under the Operation Whirl Stroke, conducted offensive operations to Ukum, Katsina-Ala and Vandeikya local government areas in Benue state in the last three weeks, during which the bandits were killed.

It was gathered that 57 weapons, including 27 AK-47 magazines and 1,311 rounds of ammunition were recovered during the operation.

Can Nigerian Soldiers really not deal with Boko Haram fighters?| Legit TV

Source: LegitIf you create something unique or wish to offer your Nigerian product outside the country, you should learn how to sell on Amazon from Nigeria. Amazon is the top world online store with millions of unique visits from all over the world, and it gives you an awesome chance to find international customers and improve your own sales.

Photo: images-amazon.com

Source: UGC

How can I sell on Amazon from Nigeria?

There were times when it was impossible to use Amazon seller app if you didnt live in the USA. But this all has changed, and in 2018 you can easily learn how to sell on Amazon even if you do not live and work in the USA.

While it might look harder to Nigerians at first glance, since Amazon does not list Nigeria in its list of countries whose residents can register as a seller (you can find the full list of supported territories on Seller Central page), there are still ways how you can manage this and bypass the system.

READ ALSO: Does Amazon.com ship to Nigeria?

Photo: sellercentral.amazon.com

Source: UGC

Of course, there are particular rules for everyone who lives outside the United States of America which clearly explain how to sell on Amazon. These rules are not difficult to follow, so every Nigerian who has a big desire to join this global online market can fulfill his or her dream even if he or she originates from any state of Nigeria.

Below we will describe the main features of Amazon seller app and give you some useful tips and guides. Do you want to know the answer to the question: 'How can I sell my product on Amazon?' Keep reading, and you will find the answer to this popular question.

Photo: services.amazon.com

Source: UGC

What you need to sell on Amazon

There are several important steps you have to complete before you can become one of the many sellers on the biggest e-commerce site on our planet.

Since Amazon is not open to every seller and every customer from all corners of the world, it expects everyone who is eligible to sell using its services to have a registration, provide honest information and have a strong desire to work.

Here are the main things youll need to sell your product on Amazon:

1. Registration of an account

It is impossible to sell your products without an account on this platform. The good news is that you dont have to travel from Nigeria to the USA to register such an account. At the same time, everything cannot be done online, from the comfort of your Nigerian home or office, because our country is not eligible to join the platform as sellers officially.

There are some things you have to do first:

Citizens of Niger, Namibia, and many other African countries can officially register at Amazon thus if you have a physical address (relatives, friends) in any of these African countries you can use it for your registration.

If you cannot work from Niger, Namibia or another supported country, you should find a U.S.-based partner that offers you a virtual physical address in the United States of America for rent.

Plus, youll need to have the internet connection, your documents ready (the account must be verified) and some of your time to register a non-USA seller account through a partner or with your friends/relatives help. Youll also need to use VPN to hide your Nigerian IP-address during registration and platform usage

Prices

Keep in mind that the seller account costs $39.99 plus extra selling fees per month, or it costs $0.99 plus extra fees per each item sold if you choose to create an individual seller account (it supports up to 40 items a month).

READ ALSO: Best online shopping sites that ship to Nigeria

Photo: services.amazon.com

Source: UGC

Details required to register

For the account registration you will need to use your real physical address (at the supported country only), real name, Mastercard/Visa international banking card along with the bank details (since you will need to be able to receive electronic payments and automatic wire transfers), etc.

P.S. Many Nigerians who wish to sell on Amazon directly from our country use international partners and a Payoneer prepaid card for receiving money in U.S. dollars and withdrawing them later in Nigeria in Naira.

READ ALSO: How to fund Payoneer MasterCard in Nigeria

2. Account approval

Once you have registered a seller account, you need to stay patient and wait for Amazon to activate and approve it.

By the way, Amazon will ask for the EIN code to activate your account (it is used to clear your taxes in the USA once a year), and this number is obtained by you with the help of IRS.GOV website where you should fill out the special form called 10-BEN. Just write it down or print out and use when necessary.

3. Choosing a shipping partner

In case of successful registration and account activation, you are highly advised to read all the guides created by Amazon for its network of sellers from all over the world.

Now there are two ways you can choose to go:

Ship your products to your partner who lives in the supported-for-seller-registration African countries.

Ship your products to Amazon warehouse through its FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) program.

The first option is not the best one because international shipping cost is expensive thus it scares away many potential buyers. Besides, it can take a long for your products to be shipped from African countries directly to your customers, many parcels can get lost on their way, and you might end up losing your money.

The second option is more attractive to consumers from the USA because your products are physically located at the platforms warehouse and they can be sold as a part of a ship-for-free program offered by Amazon, which can potentially earn you more money. Besides, if you are a part of the FBA program you wont even have to ship each order separately because the company will do it for you.

Photo: amazon.com

Source: UGC

4. Amazon seller app

Once you have chosen how exactly you are planning to sell on Amazon, you should calculate the good prices for your products (with a nice profit) and start working on adding products to your Amazon store.

Stay patient and believe in yourself. Download the mobile Amazon seller app and use it to control and manage your new online store.

Choose to advertise if you wish to get noticed by the huge audience. According to Amazon, it has more than 95 million visitors per month from the USA only, also, it has millions of customers from all over the globe.

If you have been asking, how can I sell on Amazon from Nigeria? While right now our country is not supported by this huge international platform and there are particular difficulties you have to go through if you really wish to offer your products to millions of customers from across the globe, it might one day change.

Amazon is already working with many African countries directly allowing their residents to become sellers and use Amazon seller app on-the-go, so adding Nigeria to the list of these countries is probably just a matter of time.

READ ALSO: Jumia seller registration in Nigeria: commission, SKU & support

Source: Legit Nigeria- The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has taken a bold and decisive stride in its war against terrorism especially in the northeast

- IGP Ibrahim Idris recently deployed not less than 2000 police mobile force officers to tackle insurgency in region

- Idris also dispatched counter terrorism units and sniffer dogs sections strictly for military operations

The Nigerian Police Force (NPF)'s boss, IGP Ibrahim Idris, in a concerted and laudable effort to subdued and completely defeat insurgency in the northeast, recently deployed about 2000 police mobile force officers to tackle insurgency in the region.

In a statement signed by the force's public relations officer, Jimoh Moshood, and made available to Legit.ng, it was confirmed that Idris also dispatched counter terrorism units and sniffer dogs sections strictly for military operations.

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The statement read: "The Inspector General of Police has deployed additional Two Thousand (2000) Police Mobile Force (PMF) and Counter Terrorism Units (CTU) Personnel of the Force and the Sniffer Dog Sections to the North East in the last few days for purely Military Duties to fight Boko Haram insurgency under the Operation Lafiya Dole.

"2. This new deployment is consistent with Section 4 of the Police Act and Regulations which specifies the general duties of the Nigeria Police Force as follows: The police shall be employed for the prevention and detection of crime, the apprehension of offenders, the preservation of law and order, the protection of life and property and the due enforcement of all laws and regulations with which they are directly charged, and shall perform such military duties within or outside Nigeria as may be required of them by or under the authority of this or any other Act.

"The deployment is also to support the strength of the Military to defeat the Boko Haram Insurgency.

"3. Before now, the Nigeria Police Force has on ground Forty-Seven (47) PMF Units (63 X 47 = 2961) in Borno State in addition to the Police Mobile Force (PMF) Squadron in Borno State.

"ii. Twenty-Six (26) Units (63 X 26 = 1638) on ground in Yobe State in addition to the Police Mobile Force (PMF) Squadron in Yobe State

"iii. Eighteen (18) Units (63 X 18 = 1134) on ground in Adamawa State in addition to the Police Mobile Force (PMF) Squadron in Adamawa State

"iv. The Counter Terrorism Units of the Force has deployments of over One Thousand, Two Hundred and Fifty (1,250) specially trained Counter Terrorism Police personnel.

"The Police Anti-Bomb Squad has about Three Hundred (300) personnel while over Hundred Sniffer Dogs are working with the Military in the fight against Insurgency in the North East.

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"4. It is of significant note that the Police Mobile Force (PMF) Personnel, Counter Terrorism Units (CTU), Anti-Bomb Squad (EOD), Sniffer Dog Sections, the Federal Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS) and conventional Police personnel have being fighting along with the Military in the front line against Boko Haram insurgency and also providing security for restoration of law and order in the North East, security for all the liberated towns and villages in the North-East, escort of Foreign and Local Humanitarian workers and relief materials, protection of IDP camps and security of public and private infrastructures.

"ii. The Police Air-wing Surveillance Helicopters and crews are also deployed to support most of the operations of Operation Lafiya Dole throughout the North East in the fight against insurgency in the North East.

"5. The Nigeria Police Force is fully committed to the fight against insurgency and will do all it takes in collaboration with the Military to bring a quick end to Boko Haram insurgency and crisis in the northeast."

Meanwhile, Legit.ng reported that dozens of soldiers were killed and many others sustained gun wounds when Boko Haram insurgents invaded their base at Matele Kukawa local government area of Borno state on Sunday, November 18.

The incident occurred at remote village of Metele in Lake Chad Basin around 5:00pm. A security source said the insurgents subdued the soldiers and left with their ammunition.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better.

Can Nigerian Soldiers really not deal with Boko Haram fighters?| Legit TV

Source: Legit.ng- The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the promotion of 239 senior police officers

- The officers included 2 commissioners of police promoted to assistant inspectors general of police and 10 assistant commissioners of police elevated to deputy commissioners of police

- About 12 superintendent of police were also promoted to chief superintendent of police and 76 deputy superintendent of police to superintendent of police

The Police Service Commission (PSC) on Sunday, December 2, in Abuja, said it had approved the promotion of 239 senior police officers.

A statement by the commissions Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, said the officers included two Commissioners of Police promoted to Assistant Inspectors General of Police, and 10 Assistant Commissioners of Police elevated to Deputy Commissioners of Police.

Ani said that 12 Superintendent of Police were also promoted to Chief Superintendent of Police, and 76 Deputy Superintendent of Police to Superintendent of Police.

READ ALSO: Setback for APC again as Bauchi speaker, other lawmakers dump party, join PRP

Others he said were 139 Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) promoted to the rank of Deputy of Superintendent of Police.

The spokesman said the commission also ratified the promotion of 7,981 to the next rank of ASP.

He said the officers were products of the last Departmental Selection Board.

Ani said the promotions were part of the decisions taken at the second plenary of the commission held at the Police Academy in Wudil, Kano state.

He said the approval and ratification of have been conveyed to the Inspector-General of police for implementation.

In a previous report by Legit.ng, Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari approved Enhanced Salary Structure for the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

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The president made the declaration after meeting with members of the Police Service Commission (PSC) on Monday, November 26, at the State House, Abuja. President Buhari met with the board of PSC, led by the Inspector General of Police Ibrahim Idris.

In a series of tweets by Garba Shehu, the SSA on media and publicity, President Buhari assured that his administration will continue to give attention to the welfare and operational needs of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) with a view to restoring its lost primacy in the internal security framework of the country.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better.

Is the Nigerian police your friend? | Legit TV

Source: LegitSome northern elders have condemned the recent call for the sack of the service chiefs by the pan Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere.

The elders warned that there are some political enemies who have infiltrated the midst of the pan Yoruba socio-cultural group.

According to the leadership of the Northern Elders, Professionals and Stakeholders Forum (NEPSF), there is no doubt that these soldiers died for citizens to live.

The national president of the group elders' forum, Simon Shango, said the forum and its members are optimistic of the supreme price paid for Nigerians by the soldiers.

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Shango, while urging the president to ignore the call by the Afenifere group said, the call for the sack of the service chiefs is against the precepts of morality and spirit of fraternity or commiseration for families of the slain soldiers.

He stated that the call is an agenda to lend supportive pillars to the atrocities of Boko Haram terrorists through media propaganda.

Shango said: "The pro-Boko Haram disposition of these tribal associations, manifested more glaringly in the communique issued by Afenifere after its monthly meeting, which took place in Akure, Ondo state at the house of its leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti."

READ ALSO: I will soon celebrate my 76th birthday, I am not dead - Buhari finally speaks about being cloned

"To say, we were shocked that the Afenifere enlivened the campaign for the sack of the incumbent Service Chiefs is to put it politely. But the infusion of a political tone into an otherwise mournful comments by praying God to give us a leadership that is more than equal to the challenges we face, grassed the partisanship of the group on the matter.

Shango described the remarks by Afenifere as uncharitable, unpatriotic, misplaced, mendacious and grossly leading, adding that it is a tacit bolstering of the terrorists triumph and burgeoning to rise against our nation in pseudo might.

"Thats why they freely quoted unofficial and inflated figures of casualties of soldiers in the Metele attacks," he added.

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the Nigerian Army has said that it is yet to get the $1 billion approved to tackle terrorism and other security issues in the country.

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The National Economic Council (NEC) in 2017 approved the request of the Muhammadu Buhari-led government to withdraw $1 billion from the Excess Crude Account (ECA) for the fight against insurgency.

Speaking to newsmen recently, the Nigerian Army spokesperson, Brigadier General Sani Usman, revealed that the money is still being processed.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better.

Can Nigerian Soldiers really not deal with Boko Haram fighters?| Legit TV

Source: Legit- Former APC chieftain, Timi Frank, says Adeyanju's arrest is an attempt to silence activists who against Buhari's government

- Adeyanju, convener of Concerned Nigerians, was recently arrested for leading a protest tagged Police Are Not Politicians, Save Our Democracy

- Frank accused the police of turning themselves into an APC Police Force

Former deputy national publicity secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has condemned the arrest and detention of a human rights activist, Prince Deji Adeyanju.

According to Comrade Frank, Adeyanju's arrest is an attempt to silence the remaining few activists speaking against the current administration.

He urged Nigerians to demand for their rights as enshrined in the constitution, noting that been arrested and charged to court for leading a protest is unconstitutional.

Police spokesperson, Jimoh Moshood, had in a statement on Wednesday, November 28, confirmed that Adeyanju, Daniel Abobama and Boma Williams were arrested in Abuja on allegations of criminal defamation and breach of public peace, inciting public disturbance, derogatory conduct, among others.

Moshood claimed that the arrest of the three citizens did not violate either the Nigerian Constitution or the police establishment powers.

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Comrade Frank, in a statement sent to Legit.ng on Sunday, December 2, called on the judiciary not to allow itself to be used into trampling on the rights of the citizens.

He condemned the way and manner of operations by the current police's leadership, accusing them of turning themselves into an APC Police Force.

While condemning what he called stringent bail conditions granted Adeyanju after his trial, Comrade Frank alleged that the police was planning to re-arrest and charge him with terrorism anytime he is granted bail.

He, however urged the judiciary to take note of how security agents are trying to silence the human rights activists and the media.

The former APC spokesman also expressed gratitude to all the Civil Society Organizations, activists and other human rights crusaders who he said, have demonstrated concerns to Deji's freedom.

It is Prince Deji Adeyanju today, we don't know who will be the next victim of arrest by the APC government. This same police could arrest someone on a peaceful demonstration, but couldnt effect the arrest of any thug among the hoodlums who recently invaded the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly.

The police IG should know that power is transient and that the effect of injustice done today does not end today but waits patiently for the future.

I, hereby call on the court to be fair to Prince Adeyanju, and also resist the police from unnecessary persecution of the Human Rights crusader, Comrade Frank stated.

READ ALSO: 239 senior police officers get promotion

Meanwhile, a recent media report revealed that Adeyanju may be facing a ten-year jail term for his alleged criticism of the federal government and top functionaries.

According to the report, Adeyanju is likely to be arrested and taken before a Federal High Court for allegedly contravening aspects of The Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act, 2015.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng. We have upgraded to serve you better.

Lagos Police Commissioner Parades Suspected Criminals (Nigeria News) | Legit TV

Source: Legit- Oby Ezekwesili, presidential candidate of the ACPN, has promised to provide nationwide electricity for 24 hours if elected

- According to her, the challenges causing under-performance in the power sector would be addressed if she emerges president

- She stated that stable electricity would aid business growth in Nigeria

The presidential candidate of Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN), Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, has assured Nigerians of development in the power sector if she wins the 2019 presidential election.

She added that uninterrupted power supply would be witnessed in the country under her watch if elected.

Ezekwesili in a statement sent to Legit.ng on Sunday, December 2, said the electricity industry would be developed to employ more youths if she assumes office.

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She said: From 1999 till date, all the projections made by successive governments to grow the supply of electricity to Nigerians, to either 6,000MW, 10,000MW or 20,000MW, have not been met.

The Nigerian citizens desire and willingness to pay an appropriate price of electricity consumed is seen in the great demand for generators of all shapes and sizes, and how much they pay to operate and service these machines.

The low power availability from the national grid has meant that corporate entities have to divert large amount of funds from their core productive areas of focus to this critical area of reliable power supply. The price of this is paid in not being competitive and great loss of production capacities, which further impoverishes the populace.

Our vision is to provide sustainable, affordable and uninterrupted electricity supply to all Nigerian towns and villages, starting with Nigerian cities. Our vision is to ensure that the Nigerian electricity supply industry becomes fully functional, vibrant and employs hundreds of thousands of young Nigerians, in both the on-grid and off-grid segments.

The ACPN presidential candidate also said, Our immediate goal is to provide the following Nigerian towns, cutting across the following six geo-political zones of Nigeria: Lagos, Kano, Enugu, Birnin Kebbi, Aba, Minna, Gombe, Lokoja, Gusau, Jos, Yola, Abuja, Ilorin, Benin, Owerri and Ijebu-Ode with 24-hours, 365 days-a-year electricity within the first four years of our administration.

The other cities to benefit from this are Calabar, Katsina, Benin, Warri, Ibadan, Ado-Ekiti, Maiduguri, Yenegoa, Damaturu, Osogbo, Bauchi, Port Harcourt, Kaduna, Sokoto, Akure, Makurdi, Dutse, Abakaliki, Uyo, Jalingo and Onitsha. The rural areas proximate to the towns will also enjoy the services.

The presidential candidate explained that stable electricity would aid business growth in Nigeria, noting that the challenges causing under-performance would be addressed.

The plan that will be executed for the power sector recognises that the Nigerian power sector is in transition from a government to a private-sector owned and operated industry; therefore, facing challenges, which include, political interference, lack of elective leadership, financial issues, distribution issues, transmission issues, gas supply issues, and generation issues.

"These issues account for the consistent underperformance witnessed in the last 58 years and will need to be seriously tackled if the potential of the Nigerian power sector is to be realised. To get electricity right, thus rapidly improve electricity performance and delivery gap to Nigerians, this plan outlines the change in approach that the administration will adopt," Ezekwesili added.

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Ezekwesili recently called on Nigerians to reject the presidential candidates of the All Progressives Congress and Peoples Democratic Party in the upcoming 2019 presidential elections.

According to her, the cycle of leadership failure in Nigeria is unsustainable and it has to end, adding that the country deserves better than the quality of leadership it currently gets.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng. We have upgraded to serve you better.

Nigeria Latest News: PDP Convention - Atiku Elected as Presidential Candidate | Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit Newspaper- Activist, Deji Adeyanju, was recently arrested by the police in Abuja

- Adeyanju, convener of Concerned Nigerians, was picked up for leading a protest tagged Police Are Not Politicians, Save Our Democracy

- The detained activist may be facing a ten-year jail term for his alleged crime

Detained activist and human rights crusader, Deji Adeyanju, may be facing a ten-year jail term for his alleged criticism of the federal government and top functionaries.

Top sources within the security and intelligence system confided in The Nation that Adeyanju is likely to be arrested and taken before a Federal High Court for allegedly contravening aspects of The Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act, 2015.

According to the report, a process may have commenced towards getting the police and the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation involved in arraigning Adeyanju on fresh charges under the Cybercrime Act before a Federal High Court as his current issues are before a magistrate court.

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Detailed exhibits gathered for use in prosecuting Adeyanju include several postings on his Whatsapp and Facebook accounts with allegedly unproven allegations against President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Army Chief Tukur Buratai.

A source quoted in the report, said the police have already publicised some of the online postings that may be cited under contravention of the Cybercrimes Act.

Penalties under the Cybercrimes Act range from ten years to life imprisonment though it remains to be seen how prosecution intends to interpret how Adeyanju infringed the law.

Part Three Section 5 (2) and (3) of the Act states that:

Where the offence committed under subsection ( 1 ) of this section results in grievous bodily harm to any person, he offender shall be liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term of not more than 15 years without option of fine.

Where the offence committed under subsection ( 1 ) of this section results in the death of person(s), the offender shall be liable on conviction to life imprisonment.

READ ALSO: Police arrest Deji Adeyanju in Abuja

Police spokesperson, Jimoh Moshood, had in a statement on Wednesday, November 28, confirmed that Adeyanju, Daniel Abobama and Boma Williams were arrested in Abuja on allegations of criminal defamation and breach of public peace, inciting public disturbance, derogatory conduct, among others.

Moshood claimed that the arrest of the three citizens did not violate either the Nigerian Constitution or the police establishment powers.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng. We have upgraded to serve you better.

Lagos Police Commissioner Parades Suspected Criminals (Nigeria News) | Legit TV

Source: Legit.ng- Sources within the opposition party has revealed why the presidential candidate for the party did not travel to the US as earlier anticipated

- The sources said Atiku Abubakar could not miss the launch of his campaign on Monday, December 3

- According to other sources, Atiku aborted his US trip because he needs assurances that he would not be embarrassed over the Jefferson case

Reasons why the presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the forthcoming general election, Atiku Abubakar, did not travel to the United States of America have been revealed.

Sources within Atiku's camp said, although the PDP's presidential candidate has been issued a visa, his inability to head to the US followed the launching of his campaign.

According to a source, Atiku could not afford to miss the launch of the opposition party's campaign which is scheduled to take place on Monday, December 3, Vanguard reports.

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He will certainly travel to the US but the campaign cannot kick off in his absence. That would be ridiculous," the source said.

Other sources said the PDP's flag bearer aborted his US trip because he needs assurances that he would not be embarrassed over allegations of corruption for which Congressman William Jefferson and Siemens have been convicted.

READ ALSO: I will soon celebrate my 76th birthday, I am not dead - Buhari finally speaks about being cloned

A case which the PDP presidential candidate has denied.

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Atiku had appointed Phrank Shuaibu and three youths including a woman as his aides.

The media adviser to Atiku, Paul Ibe, confirmed this in a statement to newsmen on Sunday, December 2, in Abuja.

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While Ahmed Adamu is the special assistant on youth and strategy, Aliyu Bin Abbas will handle youth support groups.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng. We have upgraded to serve you better.

Between Buharis Next Level And Atikulate - Nigerians React| Legit TV

Source: Legit.ng- The federal government has withdrawn the 'no work, no pay' threat against ASUU

- The negotiation meeting between ASUU and the federal government is expected to resume on Monday, December 3

- However, the union said even if the threat is there, they are prepared for it

The national president of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Professor Biodun Ogunyemi on Sunday, December 2, announced that the federal government has withdrawn its 'no work, no pay' threat against the union.

Ogunyemi said ASUU and the federal government will resume negotiation today, Monday, December 3 after the failed meeting on Friday, November 30, Vanguard reports.

READ ALSO: Dominate the north-west - Buratai charges soldiers

He said: Well, we have confirmed that they have withdrawn that threat (no work no pay). So it appears the threat is not there for now. But even if the threat is there, we are prepared for that because for our members, no sacrifice is too much to salvage Nigerias education.

Shortly before our action while the NLC (Nigeria Labour Congress) hullabaloo was going on with federal government, they went to the Federal Executive Council that they were activating that rule."

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Legit.ng earlier reported that the vice-chancellors of public universities and inter-varsity centres have been directed by the federal government not to pay the lecturers who are on strike their salary.

This was contained in a memo by the National Universities Commission, signed by the director, Research, Information and Technology, Dr S. B Ramon-Yusuf.

Ramon-Yusuf said payment of salaries from any other sources would be viewed as violation of extant rules and governments directive.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We keep evolving to serve our readers better.

Parents advice government over ASUU strike | Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit.ngNigerian celebs bring a whole new meaning to style. Whether there is a dress code or it is a come-as-you-are affair, Nollywood divas and goons always make sure to show up looking exquisite.

It is obvious celebrity lifestyle is very much about glitz and glam. For our favourite Nollywood faces, it's about expressing fashion in the best way they understand. We have seen them perform wonders during the Agbada challenge at an event and recently, it was all about opulence and they all brought their A-game.

From elegant traditional wears, to bold fashion statements, life as a Nollywood celeb was something to admire when most of them stepped out for the Chief Daddy movie premier in Lagos.

It was more than a style fever when everyone showed up looking super fabulous in their special attires. The vibrancy, the styles, the pretty and handsome faces, all were displayed at the show which had the internet in flames on November 2.

READ ALSO: Ini Edo calls out Omoni Oboli for missing the movie premiere of her supposed bestie Uche Jombo

Legit.ng presents some of the favourite outfits from the event which was themed opulently Nigerian:

1. Rita Dominic

The pretty Rita showed up sparkling from head to toe. The ivory beauty dished out ultimate style in her sequin dress with several touches of fringes. She finished the look with a head piece and looked super stunning.

2. Ebuka

Style icon Ebuka never disappoints. The media personality showed up looking like a chief and looked effortlessly dapper.

3. Inidima Okojie

Easily one of the most stylish celebs in the industry, Inidima is what many Nigerians recognise as the ultimate style queen. She showed up looking like an Edo bride and looked simply dashing.

4. The Suleimans

The latest couple in town looked completely exquisite. They both showed up in very stylish attires and the vibrancy of Linda's outfit complimented that of her husband's black attire.

5. Kate Henshaw

Darling Kate Henshaw showed up looking like royalty. Her head piece dished out very bold fashion statement that will be remembered for months to come.

6. Toke Makinwa

Toke was the woman with the source in a black attire. Channeling her inner queen, she appeared like she was ready to take over her queendom.

7. Shaffy Bello

Mrs Bello looked super gorgeous in her simple and completely elegant ankara dress.

READ ALSO: Timi Dakolo gushes about wife, says she gives him peace of mind

8. Toyin Lawani

Fashion goddess Toyin didn't come to play. She showed up looking like royalty in her aso oke agbada and finished the look with an elegant head piece fit for kings.

9. Ini Edo

Ini showed up as an Ibibio bride and completely slayed the look.

10. Zainab Balogun

Balogun showed up looking like a young Maryam Abacha and looked super gorgeous!

There you have it, the best dressed celebs from the Chief Daddy movie premier. Who is your favourite?

Did you know? NAIJ.com (naija.ng) is now-> Legit.ng We have updated to serve you better.

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Nigeria Celebrities: How Much Do They Spend On Luxury Life? on Legit TV:

Source: Legit.ng- The APCs gubernatorial candidate in Ebonyi state, Senator Ogbuoji, has dedicated his campaign to God

- He said that power belongs to God, adding that any power obtained outside of God would not be used in the service of the people

- Ogbuoji expressed confidence in the victory of APC in the governorship race

Senator Soni Ogbuoji, governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi, on Sunday, December 2, dedicated his governorship campaign to God at the Assemblies of God Church, Mbieri Street, Abakaliki.

According to him, the greatest need of a politician is security and not money, adding that he chose to kick off the campaign in a church service in order to seek Gods protection and security, NAN reports.

Legit.ng gathers that he said that power belongs to God, adding that any power obtained outside of God would not be used in the service of the people.

READ ALSO: 2019: Olawepo-Hashim on the rise against Buhari, Atiku - Report

Power comes from God, horses are made for battle, but victory comes from God; so we are here because it is God that gives power, we are here because we are sure that there is victory in our hands, Ogbuoji said.

He added that nothing would even come to fulfillment without Gods endorsement.

Ogbuoji expressed confidence in the victory of APC in the governorship race, saying that his administration would correct the mistakes of the present Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led government.

We shall restore sanity, restore the dreams of our founding fathers, fight the merchants of poverty and violence.

So, we have come, my team and I to obtain mercy from God, so pray for us for God to give us divine protection and victory at the end, he added.

Meanwhile, the officiating minister, Rev John Ezeugo, who spoke on the theme The Thing That Matters, said that any power, financial, political and any power that is not of God is vanity.

He urged politicians to use power to serve those who elected them into authority rather than misuse power and authority.

Ezeugo said: Dont be happy with the things you have achieved, but thrive to do good and not to amass wealth and trample on the poor and powerless.

And what we are seeing in Nigeria today is not Christianity, but religion, that is what we are seeing today, nothing on earth can save man except God."

Kano state governor, Ibrahim Ganduje, former governor of Akwa Ibom, Senator Godswill Akpabio and Chief Martin Elechi, former governor of Ebonyi were among the dignitaries that attended the church service.

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Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Senator Soni Ogbuoji reminded the Ebonyi state electorate that their votes are not for sale, and urged them to vote wisely.

Ogbuoji gave the advice in a statement signed by Ikenna Emewu, the director of media of his campaign organisation, and made available to newsmen in Abakaliki.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service!

Ebonyi state, Nigeria and West Africa's food capital | Legit TV:

Source: Legit.ng- Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka has predicted that President Buhari and Abubakar Atiku may lose in 2019 presidential election

- He also disclosed that his ministrys prayers saved Buhari from deadly sickness in 2015

- Mbaka added that the president had refused to come and do a project for his ministry as a way of thanking God

Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, Catholic priest and spiritual director of the Adoration Catholic Prayer ministry, Enugu, has predicted President Muhammadu Buhari and the presidential candidate of the PDP, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku, may lose 2019 presidential election

The respected cleric said this during the 2018 harvest and bazaar celebration at his Adoration Ground in Emene.

He also argued that, it was the prayers on Adoration altar that made Buhari the president. Mbaka lamented that the president had refused to come and do a project for his ministry as a way of thanking God.

READ ALSO: I will soon celebrate my 76th birthday, I am not dead - Buhari finally speaks about being cloned

He also claimed that it was his ministrys prayers that saved Buhari from deadly sickness in 2015.

Vanguard quoted Mbaka as saying: Ask Atiku if it is these steps that the cow will take to reach Umuahia. Mbaka concluded by requesting that Atiku should reach out to Igbo leaders like Hon. Ike Ekweremadu and also come personally to adoration ground and do a project for them.

The cleric also berated Atikus running mate, Peter Obi. He argued that Obi had not done anything for his church.

Umahi donated 1,000 bags of rice and 1,000 tubers of yam to us, but it meant nothing to me until he handed N10 million cheque to me and promised to build a project for the ministry. This is the type of gesture we require from Obi, he said.

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Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that the spiritual director of Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria (AMEN), Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka on Sunday declared that there is no vacancy in the Enugu state Government House in 2019, stressing that Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi had done excellently well in office and deserves a second term.

Top 3 Nigerian Political Divorces: Breakups That Affect Everyone | Legit TV

Source: Legit- Former president Olusegun Obasanjo has written to the United States over the death of ex-American president George Bush

- Obasanjo, in his condolence note, described the death of the former president as a colossal loss to the US and entire world

- The ex-Nigerian leader also described Bush as a great international administrator and erudite leader

In what seems to be a condolence note to the United States over the death of former US president George Bush, ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo has written to President Donald Trump to express his grief and eulogy, The Punch reports.

Obasanjo, in a letter by his aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, expressed shock over the death of the former US president.

Legit.ng gathers that he described the death of Bush as a colossal loss for the people of US, adding that Bush's legacies will continue to shape the economic and political view of the world.

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Obasanjo wrote: Bushs death is a loss not only to his immediate family and to the United States but also to the entire world.

With the refocused and renewed emphasis on market reforms, political and social accountability, and stronger trade relations, his legacies have continued over the years to shape Africas relations with the United States.

Obasanjo, in his condolence, noted Bush's impacts in Africa, especially his relationship with Nigeria when he was the president.

The ex-Nigerian leader also eulogised Bush, describing the late erstwhile American president as a great leader and erudite international statesman.

He said: "Bushs special interest in Nigeria was reflective of the special relations between our two countries.

We join you and the American people in mourning the loss of a political giant, an astute administrator, a courageous leader, an erudite international statesman, and a great American hero.

Though the world would miss him, his legacies would continue to inspire many to reach the highest points of their productive, political and creative abilities.

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Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported that former United States president George Herbert Walker Bush had passed away.

His spokesman, Jim McGrath, revealed that he died late Friday, November 30, at age 94 in Houston.

His death came after his wife of 73 years, Barbara Bush, died on April 17, at age 92.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We keep evolving to serve our readers better.

How Trump's strange covfefe tweet, Biafra @50 celebrations lit up the social media | Legit TV

Source: Legit- Pope Francis has advised actively gay priests to leave the priesthood, rather than lead double lives

- In a soon-to-be-released book, the pope expressed worry over the issue of homosexuality in the Church

- In order to avoid creating scandals, the pontiff also urged homosexual priests and nuns to remain celibate and responsible

The leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, in a controversial new book, has stated that men with deep-rooted homosexual tendencies should not be admitted to the Catholic clergy, and it would be better for actively gay priests to leave, rather than lead double lives.

According to UK Daily Mail, the pontiff made the comment in a book-length interview with a Spanish priest, Fernando Prado.

Legit.ng gathers that the book is titled 'The Strength of Vocation'; and in it, Pope Francis discusses the challenges of being a priest or nun today.

In the book, which is due to be published in several languages this week, the pope expressed worry over the issue of homosexuality in the church.

READ ALSO: 2019: Fast, pray for Plateau, Nigeria - Lalong tasks Christians

He reportedly stated: The question of homosexuality is a very serious one. He added that those entrusted with training men to be priests must be certain that before being ordained, candidates are humanly and emotionally mature.

This also applies to women seeking to enter female religious communities to become nuns. In the Catholic Church, priests, nuns and monks all take vows of celibacy.

Francis called on the Church to be 'demanding' in choosing candidates for the consecrated life.

He said: For this reason, the Church urges that persons with this rooted tendency not be accepted into (priestly) ministry or consecrated life.

In order to avoid creating scandal, the pontiff also urged homosexuals who are already priests or nuns to be celibate and responsible.

He said: It is better that they leave the priesthood or the consecrated life rather than live a double life.

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Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Pope Francis renewed his plea for forgiveness for all kinds of abuse of power perpetrated by members of the Catholic Church and all its institutions.

In a speech during mass before 500,000 people in Dublin, the pontiff spoke of meeting eight survivors of sexual abuse.

He said: We ask forgiveness for the time that passed without showing compassion to the survivors. We ask for forgiveness for the persons in charge within the church hierarchy who did not take charges against this kind of abuse.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service!

UK urges Nigeria to allow same-sex unions - on Legit TV:

Source: Legit- United States president's daughter Tiffany Trump reportedly dating Nigerian Lebanese millionaire

- The young man had reportedly grown up in Lagos state

- They allegedly met on vacation to Mykonos, Greece

President Donald Trump's daughter, Tiffany Trump, is reportedly dating a millionaire who grew up in Nigeria. The young man identified as Michael Boulos who is of Lebanese origin comes from a wealthy family.

The United States' president's daughter had reportedly met Boulos on a vacation in Mykonos, Greece. The millionaire comes from a well-connected family that owns a multimillion-dollar conglomerate that trades in vehicles, equipment, retail and construction.

According to Page Six, Tiffany who is a law student at Georgetown University, had taken her alleged boo to the Trumps Mar-a-Lago for Thanksgiving.

READ ALSO: Timi Dakolo gushes about wife, says she gives him peace of mind

A source had revealed to Page Six that Tiffany was happy to introduce Boulos to her family over the weekend.

Tiffany is happy she has so far been able to keep things with Michael under the radar. But she introduced him to her family at Thanksgiving, and he comes across as a very intelligent young man from a great family. There was no mention of the presidents unfortunate comment about African nations.

US President Trumps daughter reportedly dating millionaire who grew up in Nigeria Instagram source: Tiffany Trump/ Michael Boulos

Source: Instagram

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It was gathered that the young man had attended an elite school in Lagos where he grew up. For many, it come as a surprise that Tiffany would be dating a man who grew up in Nigeria.

Few months back, during a meeting on immigration, President Trump had referred to some African countries as dumps. He said: Why are we having all these people from s - - thole countries come here?

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Legit.ng had reported that Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation Americas (NIDOA) had reacted to the statement. NIDOA expressed outrage at what it called the vulgar, insensitive and racist language about Africans and other immigrants.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better

My Girlfriend And I Have Backup Boyfriend/Girlfriend And We Are Happy: Street Gist - on Legit TV

Source: Legit Nigeria- Ahead of 2019 general elections, members of the disbanded MEND have declared support for Atiku Abubakar

- They have also commenced mobilisation for the presidential candidate of the PDP

- The mobilisation is reportedly being coordinated by an influential former top public officer from the Niger Delta

Few months to the 2019 general election, members of the disbanded Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) have have commenced mobilisation for the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

An influential former top public officer from the Niger Delta, who once manned a multibillion naira agency is said to be behind the mobilisation.

New Telegraph reports that the Niger Delta politician may likely be named Niger Delta Liaison Officer at PDP Presidential Campaign Council.

READ ALSO: I will soon celebrate my 76th birthday, I am not dead - Buhari finally speaks about being cloned

However, it could not be confirmed if the leader of the disbanded MEND, Chief Government Ekpomupolo, otherwise known as Tompolo, is part of the regrouping and mobilisation.

Leaders believed to be on the mobilisation team include Ateke Tom (now a traditional ruler in Rivers state), Farrah Dagogo, Victor Ben (Boyloaf), Joshua Macaiver and Bigbopere Ajube (Shoot at Sight). Ajube is said to be the one coordinating his colleagues.

We are on top of the situation in the Niger Delta region because all ex-agitators from the region, especially those we call the Big Five, are solidly behind our presidential candidate.

Although they had their initial reservations about Atiku because of his role in the ouster of their kinsman, Goodluck Jonathan, they have finally agreed to work for Atiku after certain concessions were made in terms of their continued involvement in the surveillance of oil installations. You will recall that the arrangement was stopped by the current government, so they are not happy with Buhari, the news outlet, quoting a source close to the PDP Presidential Campaign Council reported.

Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, Catholic priest and spiritual director of the Adoration Catholic Prayer ministry, Enugu, predicted President Muhammadu Buhari and the presidential candidate of the PDP, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku, may lose 2019 presidential election.

The respected cleric said this during the 2018 harvest and bazaar celebration at his Adoration Ground in Emene.

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He also argued that, it was the prayers on Adoration altar that made Buhari the president. Mbaka lamented that the president had refused to come and do a project for his ministry as a way of thanking God.

Top 3 Nigerian Political Divorces: Breakups That Affect Everyone | Legit TV

Source: Legit.ngA Nigerian lady based in Odense, Denmark, has expressed shock after she came across the mayor of her town in a mall. The young lady had spotted Mayor Peter Rahbk Juel of Odense at a mall shopping for his family.

The young lady had shared a photo of the mayor in the mall on her Instagram page. She noted that she believes something like that can never happen in Nigeria.

According to the lady, it would be impossible to see the governor of any state in Nigeria shopping as casually as the mayor did. She expressed that the governors in Nigeria would come with an entourage and his best agbada.

On her Instagram post, the lady also stated that the mayor was standing in public alone without a thousand entourage unlike other politicians in Nigeria.

READ ALSO: US President Trumps daughter reportedly dating millionaire who grew up in Nigeria

She further expressed that her town Odense is the third largest city in Denmark. She also claimed that Denmark is one of the happiest country in the world.

Read post below:

"The mayor of Odense shopping for his family in the same shop as me? Can't imagine the governor of Lagos state or even the governor of the smallest and most rural state in Nigeria shopping for his family? Let alone standing in public without a thousand entourage of bodyguards and dressed in his biggest agbada?

N.B Odense is the third largest city in Denmark one of the most happiest country in the world, and the least corrupt country in the world! BTW that man right up anchored my wedding."

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Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that Prime Minister Mark Rutte of Netherlands who is 51 years old rides his bicycle to work everyday.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better

Governor Amosun drives wife in Abeokuta - on Legit TV

Source: Legit.ng- Governor Obiano has rubbished reports that he is supporting President Buhari and Atiku Abubakar for the presidency in 2019

- The governor disclosed that he was supporting the ambition of the presidential candidate of APGA, John Gbor

- According to Obiano, any talk about him endorsing the presidential candidate of another party, let alone joining another party, is wishful thinking

Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra state has rubbished reports that he was supporting the 2019 presidential bids of President Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Obiano rubbished the claims in a statement released by his commissioner for information and public enlightenment, C-Don Adinuba, on Sunday, December 2, Punch reports.

Legit.ng gathers that the governor disclosed that he was supporting the ambition of the presidential candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), General John Gbor.

He described stories that he was either supporting the APC or the PDP in the 2019 presidential election, as wishful thinking.

READ ALSO: Porous borders remain major challenge for NIS - Babandede

The statement read in part: As the 2019 general election approaches, it is interesting how various politicians and political parties have been swooping on Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra state, in the belief that his role will be critical in deciding who wins the presidential vote.

For instance, operatives of two of the leading political parties in Nigeria, the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party, have taken to the media to create the impression that the governor had endorsed their candidates in the forthcoming election.

Some have even gone as far as reproducing a video of an event which took place in 2014 in a bid to give the impression that the event had just occurred.

Governor Obiano is the chairman of the Board of Trustees of the All Progressive Grand Alliance. He is also the APGA national leader. These positions place heavy responsibilities on his shoulders.

Therefore, any talk about him endorsing the presidential candidate of another party, let alone joining another party, is wishful thinking."

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Recall that Legit.ng previously reported that the Authentic All Progressives Grand Alliance (AAPGA), a faction of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), accused Governor Willie Obiano of fraternising with the enemy, after the governor allegedly endorsed President Muhammadu Buhari for a second term during the book launching of former president Goodluck Jonathan.

The factional group said Obiano's statement was against his party's interest and called the governor to resign his seat as soon as possible.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: Same great journalism, upgraded for better service!

We are honestly tired of Buhari and Atiku - on Legit TV:

Source: Legit- Niger Delta leaders under PANDEF raise concerns over the alleged use of security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), to destabilise the existing peace in the Niger Delta region

- PANDEF says it is worried that the police and the Nigerian Army have become tools for the political class

- Chief Edwin Clark, the national leader of PANDEF, cautions that it is in the nations collective interest to ensure that the Niger Delta is not turned once more into a theatre of war

Niger Delta leaders have cautioned the federal government against the use of security agents in the country to harass members of the opposition parties.

The leaders under the umbrella of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), said they were concerned over the alleged use of security agencies particularly, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), to destabilise the existing peace in the region in recent times.

READ ALSO: Why Atiku did not travel to US - Sources

Chief Edwin Clark, the national leader of PANDEF, at a consultative meeting of the forum in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom state capital, said it is worried that the police and the Nigerian Army had become tools for the political class, The Independent reports.

More and more, certain persons in the political class have continued to drag the police to become surrogates in achieving their nefarious political ends. That is why in a place like Bayelsa State, eight Commissioners of Police have been posted and reposted in a matter of three months, Clark stated.

Here in Akwa Ibom State, we have continued to see the role which the police are playing in being overtly partisan. In Ekiti and Osun elections, we saw how men of the Nigeria Police Force were being openly used to intimidate political opponents and in some cases, directly perpetuating acts which are by all standards violation of every existing electoral laws.

Coming to our Niger Delta, we have collectively worked to bring peace to this troubled region. It was our effort that made the Niger Delta Avengers to declare a ceasefire in September 2016. This is the peace which we continue to enjoy till today and oil production now stands at over 2,300,000 barrels per day.

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Clark accused some persons holding political power at various levels of trying to instigate crisis in the Niger Delta region. He cautioned that it is in the nations collective interest to ensure that the Niger Delta is not turned once more into a theatre of war.

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is not behind the crisis in the Akwa Ibom state House of Assembly, an aide to the president, Senator Ita Enang has said.

Enang, who serves as the senior special assistant to the president on National Assembly matters, told Channels TV on Friday, November 30, that it is wrong to accuse the ruling party or the police of being behind the situation in Akwa Ibom state.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have updated to serve you better.

Police Parade Over 50 Suspected Cultists in Lagos | Legit TV

Source: Legit- A group in Niger Delta, 21st Century Youths of Nigeria for Restructuring, said it stopped its proposed attack on Lagos and Abuja because of stakeholders' intervention

- The group, through its president, Izon Ebi, also berated President Buhari for not signing the electoral act bill into law ahead of 2019

- The group said it would resist attempt to subject the Niger Delta region to submission through the force of federal might

A group in the Niger Delta region has said its plan to attack major infrastructures belonging to government in Lagos and Abuja was stalled courtesy of the intervention of elders in the region.

Vanguard reports that the group, 21st Century Youths of Nigeria for Restructuring, had given a seven-day ultimatum to President Muhammadu Buhari to sign the electoral act bill into law or risk major projects in Lagos being destroyed.

Legit.ng gathers that the group, reversing its decision, attributed its last result for peace to intervention by elders and stakeholders of the region.

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Announcing the reason for the sudden reversal of its decision, the leaders of the group, Izon Ebi, said: "After intense pressure and meetings with our elders, leaders from the Niger Delta and various stakeholders, we have decided to instruct all our members to stand down all attacks on our critical infrastructure in Abuja and Lagos.

The group also cautioned Nigerians against trusting the President Buhari-led government. It also questioned the presidency's commitment to free and credible election in 2019.

It said: "We want to inform our elders, leaders and all Nigerians that this government must not be trusted and treated with platitude because a reasonable government will do everything possible to sign the electoral act into law.

The signing of the electoral act into law will douse tension and fear because it will help in building confidence toward a free, fair, transparent and credible general election come 2019."

The group also vowed that the people of Niger Delta will resist attempt by the federal government to use forces to subject the region into submission.

It added: "No government or person can intimidate the Niger Delta people into submission not even this one.

We are going to resist this ploy and well orchestrated plan to impose their stooges as our leaders in the Niger Delta and Nigeria.

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Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the eastern Naval command of the Nigerian Navy said it would commence Ani-Oforifori exercise in Niger Delta creeks to rid the area of bad crooks and kidnappers.

The information officer of the unit, Thomas Otuji, claimed in Calabar that the objective of the exercise was to assess the operational readiness of ships, gunboats, helicopters and other platforms of the eastern fleet.

Meet Sunny Ofehe, the new face of Niger Delta development | Legit TV

Source: LegitAs the rumour of President Muhammadu Buhari being dead, cloned and replaced by a certain Jubril from Sudan refused to go away, the president eventually reacted in Poland on Sunday, December 2, saying that he is alive and would soon celebrate his 76th birthday.

A lot of people hoped that I died during my ill health. It is real me... I will soon celebrate my 76th birthday and I will still go strong. - President @MBuhari this evening in Krakow, Poland. His response to a question of him being cloned, Ahmed Bashar, the presidents spokesperson, said on Twitter.

The presidents response to the clone rumour has subsequently attracted reactions from various international media outlets.

With the headline Nigeria's President Buhari denies clone rumours: 'This is the real me'," CNN reports that President Buhari has denied claims that he died and was replaced by a clone, calling the speculation "ignorant rumours."

A screenshot of CNN's report of President Buhari's cloning rumour.

Source: UGC

READ ALSO: Why Atiku did not travel to US - Sources

The US media giant recalls that the presidents absence in 2017 prompted intense speculation in the country about his health and many false reports circulated online, saying he had died.

In its own version of the report, Daily Mail states that President Buhari was forced to deny he has died and been replaced by a CLONE.

A screenshot of Daily Mail's report of the 'Jubril from Sudan' rumour.

Source: UGC

According to Daily Mail, the lack of specific information about President Buharis illness which made him spend a significant part of 2017 in London, along with his gaunt features and a reduction in his public appearances fed the speculation about the clone rumour.

The global media adds that those pushing the rumour were known critics of President Buhari and his government.

A screenshot of President Buhari's cloning report on Sky News.

Source: UGC

Sky News also has a report of the cloning rumour. In a report titled Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari denies he died and was replaced by clone, Sky News states that President Buhari has denied rumours he died following a period of ill health and was replaced by a Sudanese clone.

It adds that President Buhari addressed the speculation when he met members of the Nigerian community in Poland, where he is attending the UN COP24 climate summit.

Sky News, like others, also states in its report that the lack of detail about the president's condition, his gaunt appearance and a reduction in public appearances have fuelled the rumours.

A screenshot of Reuters report on Buhari's cloning rumour.

Source: UGC

Reuters in its report of the rumour states that President Buhari denied claims that he had died and been replaced by a Sudanese impostor, breaking his silence on a rumour that has circulated on social media for months.

Reuters added that no evidence has been presented, but videos making the claim have still been viewed thousands of times on YouTube and Facebook.

A snapshot of The Guardian UK's version of the cloning rumour.

Source: UGC

The Guardian UK also the Buhari cloning report. The UK media giant indicates that President Buharis reaction to the rumour was contained in an emailed statement entitled Its Real Me, President Buhari Responds to Cloning Allegation.

It adds that a video of the president answering the question, which shows his colleagues laughing as the question is read out, has been posted to the presidents Twitter account, which is followed by 1.76m people, where it is pinned as his top tweet.

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Legit.ng previously reported that the federal government on Thursday, November 29, reacted to claims that President Buhari was cloned.

Alhaji Lai Mohammed, minister of information and culture, in an interview with journalists in Abuja described the claims as idiotic.

There had been rumours circulating that the president was cloned and that the man who is presiding over the affairs of the country is Jibrin from either Sudan or Chad. The rumour followed Buharis recovery after undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness about two years ago.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have updated to serve you better.

We are honestly tired of Buhari and Atiku | Legit TV

Source: Legit.ng- As the 2019 general elections draw nearer, a group has promised to deliver 12 million votes for Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi

- The group identified as Atiku/Obi Vanguard for Good Governance was formally unveiled in Lagos when the promise was made

- The group says a vote for Atiku/Obi is a vote for security, rapid economic development, youth empowerment, unity and rule of law

A political group under the auspices of Atiku/Obi Vanguard for Good Governance has said it will deliver 12 million votes for the duo in the 2019 presidential polls.

The director general of the movement, Tunji Iyanda, gave the promise at an interactive session to formally unveil the group in Lagos and also to solicit the support for the candidates.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the group said they would mobilise the votes from across the countrys geo-political zones.

Legit.ng gathers that Iyanda said that the group, present and functional in the 36 states, FCT and all the 774 local government areas of Nigeria, had commenced grassroots mobilisation of artisans, market women and professionals to ensure Atikus victory, irrespective of ethno-religious divides.

READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda

According to him, a vote for Atiku/Obi is a vote for security, rapid economic development, youth empowerment, unity, rule of law as well as to make Nigeria work again.

He said: We shall be involved in the aggressive media sensitisation of Nigerians as to the distinct attributes of these gentlemen.

The group is made up of foot soldiers of active mobilisers, canvassers who will target various groups at the micro levels to ensure to the delivery of additional two (2) million votes from each of the six (6) regions of this country.

We shall actively educate voters in all the 774 LGAs , 8,809 wards and in the almost 120,000 polling units. We stand for the Nigeria of merit. Nigeria of mutual respect and love, the Nigeria of common goal to serve the fatherland to the best of our ability. That is what we stand for."

According to him, the group is committed to the economic independence of Nigeria and to the restoration of stability and security, and to the unity of the people.

He said the organisation is a political vehicle designed to create a new Nigeria through peaceful, constructive and active collaboration with PDP in the forthcoming 2019 general elections.

Iyanda urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure strict adherence to all electoral laws and play its constitutional role with diligence and fairness.

The director general urged President Muhammadu Buhari to sign the amended Electoral Act passed by the National Assembly to further promote the democratic process in the country.

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He called for a change of the inspector general of police, Ibrahim Idris and the chairman of INEC, Professpr Mahmood Yakubu, to enhance credible polls.

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that Nigerias former vice president and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the forthcoming 2019 elections, Atiku Abubakar, said that he would continue with the legacies of his former boss, former president Olusegun Obasanjo, if he wins.

Atiku said this during the reconciliation meeting with Obasanjo on Thursday, October 11. Atiku was Obasanjos vice president from 1999- 2007.

The PDP presidential candidate, who described the visit as historic for himself, Obasanjo and the country, said he could not have been what he was today without the wise counsel of his former boss and the opportunity he offered him to be the vice-president.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have updated to serve you better

Atiku's acceptance speech after being declared PDP presidential flag bearer | Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit.ng- The ruling APC has lost no fewer than 26 aspirants for the Ogun state House of Assembly to the APM

- Defections have been on the rise again in the country as the 2019 general elections draw nearer

- Among the defectors were Lamidi Olatunji and two serving commissioners in the state, Dayo Adeneye and Modupe Mujota

As Nigerians prepare for the 2019 general elections, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun state has lost no fewer than 26 aspirants of the state House of Assembly to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

The defectors were aggrieved aspirants who alleged that the mandate given to them during the October 7 legislative primary of the APC was stolen by the national leadership of the ruling party, Daily Trust reports.

Legit.ng gathers that one of the defectors, Lamidi Olatunji, said they have come to inevitable conclusion to actualise their ambitions in APM.

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He said: We also wish to acknowledge the fatherly role of President Muhammadu Buhari in seeking to sustain the tenets of democracy, fairness and equity in the resolution of the crisis in Ogun APC.

We regret that Mr Presidents efforts were frustrated by the forces that are hellbent in taking the southwest back to the dark age of slavery where unelected kingpins direct the affairs of the people.

Among the defectors were two serving commissioners, Dayo Adeneye (information and strategy) and Modupe Mujota (education, science and technology).

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the APC member in the House of Representatives, Musa Soba, who defected from the party on Wednesday, October 24, accused the APC of deceiving and defrauding him.

The lawmaker representing Soba constituency of Kaduna state was one of the over 70 aggrieved APC lawmakers that protested their loss of return ticket but lost at the appeal panel of the ruling party.

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Speaker Yakubu Dogara read Sobas resignation letter to members on the floor in Abuja.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have updated to serve you better

The Next President of Nigeria. Who Will Win the 2019 Elections? | on Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit- Abuja high court has granted EFCC leave to arraign Diezani Alison-Madueke over alleged gratifications

- She and Olajide Omokore would be arraigned on February 25, 2019, on five counts bordering on conspiracy and illegal act of accepting and giving gratifications

- The prosecutor, Faruk Abdullahi, told the court that while investigations were on going, the former minister left the country and is currently in the United Kingdom

An high court sitting in Abuja on Monday, December 3, granted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) leave to arraign former petroleum minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke, and a former chairman of Atlantic energy drilling company, Olajide Omokore, on February 25, next year.

Legit.ng reports that Alison-Madueke and Omokore, are to be arraigned on five counts bordering on conspiracy and illegal act of accepting and giving gratifications.

Trial judge, Justice Valentine Ashi, granted the EFCC leave, after the prosecution counsel, Faruk Abdullahi, told the court that while investigations were on going, the former minister left the country and is currently in the UK. He also ordered the EFCC to put its house in order.

READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda

He alleged that Alison-Madueke, refused to honour an invitation by the EFCC to appear at the commission.

The suspects, are to be arraigned for allegedly accepting and giving gift of properties described as penthouse 22, Block B, Admiralty Estate, Ikoyi, and penthouse 21, building 5, block C, Banana Island, Lagos.

The EFCC said the alleged offence, contravened the provisions of Sections 26(1) and 17 of the corrupt practices and other related offences Act, 2000.

The prosecutor, Faruk Abdullahi, told the court that while investigations were on going, the former minister left the country and is currently in the United Kingdom.

He also said that on invitation by the EFCC, Madueke refused to honour the invitation but all process are set in place to ensure she comes back to face trial.

The counsel for the second defendant, Tayo Adeniyo, told the court that his client was not served with the charges and his client was read to clear his name.

NAN reports that on November 11, the EFCC confirmed that the process to bring back a former minister of petroleum, Alison-Madueke, from the United Kingdom has begun.

Acting spokesman of the commission, Tony Orilade, disclosed this in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.

According to Orilade, EFCCs operations department had made presentation to the legal department to commence the process, noting that the process has commenced.

He, however, said that the action had to be processed through the office of the attorney-general of the federation, explaining that it was not something the commission could commence and conclude on its own.

It is ongoing. Within the next few weeks, the extent to which we have gone will be made known to the public. It is not a fresh case; it is not a fresh petition that is just being looked into; the whole process is a total package.

This request to have Mrs Alison-Madueke repatriated to Nigeria is just an aspect of Diezanis investigation and commencement of trial, he said.

In 2017, a Federal High Court in Lagos ordered the final forfeiture of N7.6bn alleged loot recovered from the former minister to the federal government.

Justice Abdulazeez Anka granted an application by the EFCC seeking the final forfeiture of the money to the government.

Granting the application, the judge had said: I have read the motion on notice seeking the final forfeiture of the sum of N7.6bn reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activity.

I have also gone through the affidavit in support of the application. In the circumstances, I am of the view that the application has merit and is hereby granted as prayed. Parties have a right of appeal.

In October, 2017, the minister of justice and attorney-general of the federation, Abubakar Malami, had said that Nigeria had no immediate plan to bring Alison-Madueke back home to face trial.

READ ALSO: 2019: Why APC will defeat PDP in Enugu - Reps candidate

Alison-Madueke, who is being investigated in the UK, had urged the Federal Government to have her repatriated to Nigeria to face corruption charges against her.

Meanwhile, Legit.ng had previously reported that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) confirmed that the process for the extraditing former minister of petroleum, Deziani Alison-Madueke from the United Kingdom had begun.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better.

Top 5 the Richest People of Nigeria: The Luxury of Corruption | - on Legit TV

Source: Legit.ng- Senator Dino Melaye campaign team says the billboards of members of the opposition are being vandalised by agents of the APC

- Chief Shola Ojo, the director general of the Dino Melaye senatorial campaign organisation, calls for local government authorities to fish out the persons responsible for vandalising bill boards in the state

- The state government denies that Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello ever orders the destruction of bill boards belonging to members of the opposition

The campaign team of Senator Dino Melaye has alleged that members of the opposition in Kogi state were being harassed by All Progressives Congress (APC) and agents of Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello.

Chief Shola Ojo, the director general of the Dino Melaye senatorial campaign organisation, made the allegations during the inaugural meeting of the team recently, The Tribune reports.

The campaign team alleged that Dino Melayes campaign billboards were being destroyed on the orders of local government caretaker administrators in several locations of the state.

READ ALSO: Why Atiku did not travel to US - Sources

Ojo called on the local government authorities to launch a full investigation for the purpose of identifying those behind the destruction of billboards.

However, the state government has denied that Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello ever ordered the destruction of Melayes billboards.

It is preposterous to lay such allegations against the state government. Governor Yahaya Bello is widely lauded as a governor keen on security and who has done so much to secure Kogi state," the chief press secretary (CPS) to the governor, Petra Onyegbule, said.

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He cannot encourage any act of hooliganism or gangsterism. Cases of vandalism should be reported to the police and not be made into issues for petty politics.

In another report, Senator Dino Melaye on Wednesday, November 28, accused the state government of illegally withdrawing about $500 million.

Melaye made this accusation during a plenary. In his allegation, the senator claimed that the said fund was without the approval of the state House of Assembly.

The Senate, on its part, presided over by its president, Bukola Saraki, resolved to set up an ad-hoc committee to carry out a thorough investigation into Melaye's claims.

News Nigeria Today: What happened to Dino Melaye? | Legit TV

Source: Legit- About 59 containers of tramadol have been impounded by the Nigerian Customs Service

- Customs said 9 containers were falsely declared as containers containing PVC bulb valves and general merchandise goods

- The deputy comptroller-general in charge of enforcement, investigation and inspection of service, Augustine Chidi, said the offence contravened section 46 of customs

The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) on Monday, December 3, declared that it has impounded 59 containers of tramadol between Lagos and Rivers state in the last one month.

Channel TV reports that the deputy comptroller-general in charge of enforcement, investigation and inspection of customs, Augustine Chidi, made this known during a press conference at area 2 command in Onne Port area of the state.

He said: They are under seizure of 9 by 40 containers of Tramadol and other controlled pain-killer drugs with a duty-paid value of N3.06 billion. These 9 containers were falsely declared as containers containing PVC bulb valves and general merchandise goods.

READ ALSO: 26 lawmakers defect from APC to APM in Ogun

But upon diligent profiling of the exporter in the country of origin India, there was reasonable suspicion that eventually led to the discovery of the dreaded drugs.

According to the customs boss, the offence contravened Section 46 of customs and excise act, CAP LFN (2004).

Chidi disclosed that the comptroller general of customs, Colonel Hameed Ali (retired) had ordered an investigation into the matter with a view to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The deputy CG also reiterated the commitment of the service in preventing the importation of products considered as dangerous to the nation and also its efforts in raking revenue for the federal government.

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According to him, The NCS in increasing reliance on intelligence and technology continues to make it difficult for smugglers to have their way.

I call on communities especially border community dwellers and port users to desist from the importation of illicit drugs and also support NCS by providing credible information that will help us do better.

Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that the NCS federal operations unit, zone A Lagos, arrested a bus containing 39 sacks and 1,220 parcels of Cannabis Sativa popularly known as Indian hem.

Mohammed Uba, the controller of the unit, said the vehicle was impounded alongside the driver after a tip-off from members of the public .

The evacuated 21 sacks of pangolin scales weighing 1,031kg and four pieces of elephant tusk weighing 29.35kg from a shop in a market in Victoria Island based on information by the Warehouse Operations team led by Mutalib Sule, a customs officer.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng. We have upgraded to serve you better.

Suspected cocaine/cannabis traffickers reject Police accusations | Legit.ng TV:

Source: Legit- United States ambassador to Nigeria has been summoned over the alleged high rate of visa denial of Nigerians

- Stuart Symington was summoned by National Assembly after a petition by an activist, Kayode Bello

- Some of the students claimed that they were denied visas because they were not married

Following complains of visa denial, Stuart Symington,the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, has been summoned by the National Assembly.

Punch reports that the national assembly's invitation was said to be at the instance of an activist, Kayode Bello, who petitioned the House over the matter.

READ ALSO: 26 Ogun Assembly aspirants defect from APC to APM

The news outlet reports that the activist petitioned the National Assembly through a member representing the Ede and Ejigbo federal constituency, Prof. Mojeed Alabi, after suffering a similar fate of denial.

According to the report, the summon, titled, Indiscriminate denial of United States of America visa and illegal increment of exchange rate of visa fee by the American embassy was signed by the House Committee Chairman on Public Petitions, Uzo Azubuike.

Consequently, a hearing concerning the summon would hold on Tuesday, December 4, at 2pm at the House of Representatives Room 429.

The US ambassador was asked to present 20 copies of his defence. However, the US embassy was said to have rejected the summon.

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Legit.ng had reported that Stuart Symington, U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria said Nigeria is a beacon of hope not only to West Africa, but to Africa and the world, and that whatever affects the country affects the world.

Symington stated this on Tuesday, November 13, in Abuja at a two-day practical and visual training workshop organised for Journalists by the Public Affairs Section of the U.S Embassy.

The Next President of Nigeria. Who Will Win the 2019 Elections? | - on Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit.ngUnless Africa uses modern technologies, our farmers output will remain low and we will remain dependent on others to feed us. These were the words of Akinwunmi Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank, underscoring the importance and potential of the agricultural sector in sustaining the people and the African economy. His statement reinforces the fact that investments in agriculture are the best weapons against hunger and poverty, translating to an improvement in the lives of millions of people.

The Nigerian Governments focus on diversifying the economy has led to an increased interest and elevation of the agricultural sector. Against this backdrop Oando and its Joint Venture (JV) Partners, Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) and the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), have invested in improving agricultural practices in Nigeria. Oando and its JV Partners, on Saturday, December 1, held the 22nd edition of its annual Green River Project (GRP) / Farmers Day celebration in Igbo-ogene Bayelsa state. In addition to creating the much needed awareness on the importance of agriculture in spearheading the socio-economic development and economic diversification of the country, particularly in the Niger Delta, the initiative aims to make agriculture an attractive and accessible sector to the youth and women through the use of modern farming techniques, formation of cooperative societies and access to micro-credit schemes and provision of the necessary support and tools.

The Farmers Day initiative, which has recorded many successes;at the start took a lot of convincing to get the farmers acceptance of the project. Communities had hitherto blamed oil exploration activities for their poor harvest which in truth was as a result of poor farming techniques and seedlings. Today the initiatives success story is further validation that oil and agriculture can co-exist harmoniously and boost the countrys growth if given the requisite attention both by the Government and the private sector.

To date Oando and its JV Partners have distributed over 2,711,536 fish fingerlings, 37,669 cassava bundles, 200,563 plantain suckers, 400,051 maize seeds and 87,003 seed yam to the GRP farmers. In 2017 they trained over 5000 women and youth in various vocational skills and 275 youth in Agro skills acquisition, following its mantra to leave a lasting positive impact on its host communities.

Speaking on the need to awaken to the potential of the agricultural sector, President Muhammadu Buhari, through a video recording played at the event said: Agriculture is the only way we can feed ourselves in a sustainable manner. Active participation in agriculture is our patriotic duty. It will create millions of jobs in the future. We cannot keep feeding ourselves with imported food when God has blessed us with natural resources, we cannot continue to create jobs abroad at the expense of young, energetic, willing and able youth. He further encouraged farmers who experienced a bad harvest as a result of the floods. He said:  dont be dispirited, strive through the challenges. There is a compensation package for all affected farmers and fishermen. I want to assure all affected farmers we will help them. We the Government are with you.

To support the agricultural sector, the Federal Government through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) guaranteed a total of N1,422.4 million to 12,524 farmers under the Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme (ACGS) in the third quarter of 2018.According to the CBNs third quarter report, The amount represented an increase of 53.1% and 6.5% above the levels in the preceding quarter and the corresponding period of 2017, respectively. The report went on to state that Analysis by state showed that 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory benefited from the Scheme with the highest and lowest sums of N210.8 million (14.8%) and N0.9 million (0.1%) guaranteed to Adamawa and Bayelsa states, respectively. Hence the onus lies on private companies in states such as Bayelsa that received the least amount to boost the agricultural sector.

Through initiatives such as the Farmers Day celebration it is evident that Oando and its JV partners acknowledge the untiring efforts shown by farmers in providing sustenance for the countrys ever-growing population, providing raw materials to the nations industries, and contributing substantially to the nations foreign exchange earnings.

To further motivate farmers to strive beyond their comfort zone and embrace farming as a means of livelihood, sustenance as well as boost economic performance, the JV issued awards to farmers in various categories such as overall best farmer land; overall best farmer swamp; overall best school; overall best youth cooperative society land area; overall best women cooperative society and the NAOC GRP farmer of the year which was bagged by Dr. Victor Akujuro. The ceremony was capped by performances from cultural dance groups; popular artiste, Duncan Mighty, and a tour of the GRP facility to see food stuffs grown and sold by the farmers.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Operating Officer, Oando Energy Resources, Dr. Ainojie Alex' Irune said: We have built this initiative to outlive our generation. My hope is that future generations will experience the growth of this endeavor and the value it brings. The nation has a lot to learn from this initiative; in how you can take something small and transform it through unity and collaboration into something this successful and on such a grand scale. The onus lies on us as private sector partners and you to take advantage of this unique opportunity and propel your state to become an agro-export state.

Mr. Lorenzo Fiorillo, Vice Chairman/Managing Director NAOC highlighted the future plans of the Joint Venture for the Green River Project which includes proposed agro skills acquisition training for 350 youths in 2019; a planned empowerment and enhancement of businesses for 945 youth; extension of GRP activities to include four more communities in Bayelsa state and provision of relief materials to flood victims through the Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers and Imo states Government. He further explained that the theme of this years event was carefully selected because of the JVs numerous projects geared towards empowering the youths in particular and the people of the Niger Delta in general.

Calling on more youth participation in future Farmers Day celebrations, Mrs Edina Osifo, a representative from NAPIMS said, NAPIMS will continue support this venture to make it sustainable. Youths make the best of this initiative. It would be a pleasure to see a youth crowned the best overall farmer in 2019. I also call on women to get more involved.

In his vote of thanks, the COO of Oando Energy Resources Dr. Irune said: Over 20 years ago someone decided that this was a good idea. Came together, pooled the resources, supported by people that aren't present here today and everyone in this place to deliver what we are experiencing today. Without that vision we would not be here today. So I want to thank the NAOC Joint Venture and the FGN for their commitment in making this a reality today. We have a lot of work to do and with the support we have from all ourstakeholders especially the farmers, we see a bright future ahead of us.

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Source: Legit- Two traditional rulers in Gombe are allegedly suspended for reportedly praying for President Buhari's re-election

- The suspension of the traditional rulers is contained in a letter from the emir of Deba in the state

- Though the letters did not say it, one of the affected traditional rulers confirm that the action was because they prayed for Buhari

It is trouble for two traditional rulers in in Deba district of Gombe state as they have been reportedly suspended from office after being accused of organising a prayer session for President Muhammadu Buharis re-election in the 2019.

Premium Times named the two traditional rulers as Alhaji Julde of Garin Mallam and Ummaru Bappayo of Wajari district, saying they were suspended by the emir of Deba after they reportedly invited prominent Islamic clerics to the session.

The report stated that the suspension letter to the monarchs was written in Hausa signed by the acting secretary of the emirate, Saidu Mele.

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According to the letter, the monarchs were suspended from office with effect from November 23.

I have been directed to inform you that as from today (23/11/2018), his Royal Highness the Emir of Deba has suspended you from serving as district head because of some terrible reasons.

You are, therefore, expected to cease carrying out any function as a traditional ruler immediately, the letter stated without mentioning the actual reason for the action, but the affected traditional rulers allegedly confirmed their alleged sins.

The report said one of the tradition rulers confirmed that they organised the prayer session, through which they often pray for leaders.

The report quoted Julde, the district head of Garin Mallam, as confirming the suspension saying: Its true we were suspended for organising Zikr and praying for our dear president. I dont know what is wrong with that.

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Julde expressed belief that the emir had the instruction from the state government to suspend them.

Gombe is one of only two states in the North-east governed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after incumbent governor, Ibrahim Dankwambo, won re-election in 2015.

Legit.ng earlier reported that a former presidential aspirants on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sam Nda-Isaiah, expressed confidence that President Muhammadu Buhari will win the 2019 general election.

Nda-Isaiah said the good work being initiated under the governing All Progressives Congress [APC] led government will be enough to return President Buhari back to power.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng. We have upgraded to serve you better.

Does Sowore really have what it takes to lead Nigeria in 2019? | Legit TV

Source: LegitFBI Charlotte(NEW YORK) -- A North Carolina community is rallying in support of the family of 13-year-old Hania Aguilar, whose body was found more than three weeks after she was kidnapped in front of her home.



An online petition to the Guatemalan Embassy requesting that Hania's father be allowed to enter the U.S. to attend her funeral had garnered more than 9,200 signatures as of Sunday afternoon.



Hania's father "needs permission" to enter the U.S. "in order to see his daughter one last time," the petition, posted to Change.org, stated.



The petition also asks that the appropriate agencies "come together diligently to facilitate the process so this father can come to his daughter's Funeral."



"No parent should be denied the right to attend their childs funeral," the petition stated, adding that Hania was a U.S. citizen born in Tennessee.



North Carolina-based immigration attorney Stacy Maynor told ABC Charlotte affiliate WSOC that Hania's father would have to prove that he did not intend to remain in the U.S. and that the federal government will take information like income and family history into account to determine the likelihood he will return to Guatemala.



Hania's father likely would not be able to make the funeral, Maynor told WSOC, because the process to obtain a special visa or green card could take weeks. The funeral is scheduled to take place on Saturday, the station reported.



A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to ABC News' request for comment.



A man wearing a yellow bandanna and dressed in all black snatched Hania from outside her home at the Rosewood Mobile Park in Lumberton, North Carolina, on Nov. 5.



That morning, Hania had taken the keys to start her aunt's SUV when the man forced her into the car and drove away. Investigators found the stolen SUV three days later in Lumberton.



Hania's remains were found in a body of water in Robeson County on Nov. 27, authorities said.



Authorities are combing through surveillance video from nearby homes and businesses and are trying to locate a man seen walking near Hania's neighborhood the morning she was abducted.

Copyright  2018, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 3)  President Rodrigo Duterte had nothing but words of praise for former Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago Monday, as he conferred the Quezon Service Cross Award on the lawmaker.

Speaking at an event in Malacanang, President called Santiago "an esteemed lawmaker, constitutionalist and stateswoman."

Santiago will be the sixth and only woman in history to receive the highest recognition the nation can bestow on a person for their outstanding civilian service.

Duterte said Santiago was given many distinctions in her career, the most prestigious of which was the Ramon Magsaysay Award, Asia's counterpart of the Nobel Prize.

Santiago was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service in 1988, when she was head of what was then the Commission on Immigration and Deportation of the Philippines.

In his speech, Duterte said he hoped Santiago would serve as inspiration to all Filipinos so their talents could be used to benefit the country as well as others.

'Let us all do our part, however small, in helping bring about positive change in the country. May Senator Santiago's shining example be the legacy that we will leave behind to future generations of Filipinos. Let her memory serve as the light that will guide us towards a more progressive, inclusive and equitable society" he said.

Others awarded with the Quezon Service Cross were Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo in 2012, Sen. Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr. in 2004, President Ramon Magsaysay in 1957, President Emilio Aguinaldo in 1956, and Foreign Affairs Secretary Carlos P. Romulo in 1951.

Former Senator Santiago died of lung cancer on September 29, 2016. She was 71 years old.Prominent Yoruba elders under the aegis of South-West Forum have adopted Atiku Abubakar for the 2019 presidency.

Daily Trust reports that the group made this declaration at the end of their colloquium tagged 2019: South-West Speaks which took place at Muson Centre, Onikan Lagos.

Dr. Remi Akitoye moved a motion for the adoption of Atiku for presidency which was unanimously supported. They said they were supporting Atiku because of his promise to restructure the country.

READ ALSO: 2 traditional rulers in Gombe suspended for praying for Buharis re-election

Professor Banji Akintoye who is the father of the day said the Yoruba nation is going through a high degree of poverty; the type we have not seen before.

He, however, expressed confidence that the people will rise up and fight the endemic poverty and hopelessness bedeviling them.

Those in attendance include the Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Lagos, Jimi Agbaje, and his running mate, Haleemat Busari, Advanced Democratic Party (ADP) candidate, Babatunde Gbadamosi, and PDP governorship candidate in Oyo state, Engr. Seyi Makinde.

Others are Senate minority leader, Senator Abiodun Olujimi, national vice-chairman, Southwest PDP, Dr. Eddy Olafeso; former National Secretary, Chief Ebenezer Babatope; PDP chairman in Lagos, Dr. Adegbola Dominic and Chairma, ADP, Barr. Adewole Bolaji.

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Legit.ng had reported that Jonathan and other top members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), joined thousands of supporters on Monday, December 3, in Sokoto for the launch of the northwest zonal campaign of the presidential candidate of the party, Atiku Abubakar.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Abubakar was earlier scheduled to arrive Sokoto for the rally at noon, but arrived the city at 2pm and proceeded to the Kangiwa square along with other stalwarts of the party.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng. We have upgraded to serve you better.

We are honestly tired of Buhari and Atiku | Legit TV

Source: Legit- Governor Mohammed Bindow of Adamawa state predicts a clean sweep for President Buhari in 2019

- Bindow says Adamawa state has benefited immensely from the administration of President Buhari

- The governor says the infrastructural development on the country will make it easy for Buhari to win

The governor of Adamawa state, Mohammed Bindow, on Monday, December 3, declared that President Muhammadu Buhari remained an unbeatable candidate for the 2019 presidential election among all the candidates currently vying for the seat.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Bindow made the declaration at the inauguration of the 2019 APC campaign team for Yola North local government area.

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The report quoted Governor Bindow as saying that the provision of infrastructure nationwide by the Buhari-led administration from which the state had benefited, had given the president more popularity to get re-elected in the coming elections.

The governor reportedly mentioned five federal road projects ongoing in the state, which he described as unprecedented.

Bindow urged the people of the state to vote for the candidates of the APC from the president down to the least office in the contest.

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The governor, also said that the election of APC candidates across board would help to give the party the impetus to actualise the partys agenda of re-writing the Nigerian history.

Legit.ng earlier reported how Nduese Essien, a former minister of lands and housing, recently predicted that Atiku Abubakar will win the 2019 presidential election because of the inability of President Muhammadu Buhari to meet the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians.

The former minister on Sunday, November 11, said the Buhari administration was yet to address the basic needs of Nigerians and fix the worsening economy.

NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng. We have upgraded to serve you better.

Between Buharis Next Level And Atikulate - Nigerians React| Legit TV

Source: Legit.ngA Palmer Township couple arrested Saturday as part of a series of raids in the Easton area made their initial appearances in federal court on Monday.

Federal warrants and affidavits for Christopher Edwards and Isha Sampson remain sealed, but both are charged with knowingly and intentionally distributing cocaine in Easton, federal Judge Henry Perkin said.

In court, Sampson said she lived with her husband, Edwards, and her four children at 9 Olde Penn Drive in Palmer Township, in the suburban Penns Grant development.

Sampson works as a real estate agent out of the home and Edwards said he is unemployed, but two years ago worked as a taxi driver in New York.

The couple will remain in federal detention after Mondays hearing. Their defense attorneys declined to comment on the criminal cases.

Easton police Lt. Matthew Gerould said Monday the investigation is still active and ongoing, part of the reason why more details are not being released by authorities.

Easton Mayor Sal Panto Jr. said on Facebook that the raid took a major cocaine dealer off the streets. Authorities have not confirmed that assessment.

Easton and Palmer Township police and the FBI searched the couples townhouse after the predawn raid Saturday.

Pennsylvania State Police, federal agents and city police also served federal search warrants in the same time frame at 116 S. 12th St., 217 Orchard St. and 1067 W. Wilkes-Barre St. in Easton and made four arrests.

Taken into custody, according to court papers, were:

Bruce Greggs, 54, at the South 12th Street address

Nicole Day, 39, at the South 12th Street address

Troy Myers, 42, at the Orchard Street address

And Erika Bowles, 52, at the West Wilkes-Barre Street address.

Police said they found drugs at each of the addresses.

Boles was released after posting 10 percent of $15,000 bail, while the other three remained in Northampton County Prison on Monday.

Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.Three Hackettstown firefighters suffered minor injuries Sunday afternoon battling a fire that spread into the eaves and attic vents, town police report.

Police, fire and emergency medical personnel responded at 1:57 p.m. to 94 Countryside Drive after residents reported starting a fire in the fireplace before smoke was next seen near the chimney outside the home and then in the roof area, police said.

Fire damage was evident along the chimney and in upper portions of the white-sided home.

The firefighters were taken to Hackettstown Medical Center for treatment and later released, police said.

The investigation was conducted by the town police detective bureau, the Mount Olive Township fire marshal and Warren County Fire Marshal Joe Lake, police said.

The cause of the fire was ruled undetermined and it was not suspicious, police said.

Town fire police, the Washington Boro Fire Department, the Budd Lake Fire Department, Elizabethtown Gas and JCP&L assisted at the scene, police said.

Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.Two diary farmers from Monasterevin have been shortlisted for Bord Bias Origin Green Farmer Awards.

Shane and Dermot O'Loughlin, dairy farmers from Monasterevin, who supply Glanbia co-op have been nominated in the Large Herd category at the awards. Shane began farming with his father Dermot full time in 2005 after spending some time travelling and working on farms in Canada, USA and New Zealand. They currently have 190 spring calving cows and 50 autumn calvers.

Their farm, along with the 38 other participating farms, meets high standards around hygiene, farm safety, traceability, animal welfare, remedy use and commitment to their locality. The overall category winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at The Heritage Hotel, Killenard, on Wednesday 12 December.

With the Origin Green programme, Ireland is the first country in the world to audit and carbon footprint its livestock farms, currently at a rate of 650 a week, under what is in effect a national programme providing measurement and feedback to farmers for continuous improvement in how they farm.

The results represent a unique selling point for Irish food exports, proving that farmers are operating with due care for the surrounding environment, resulting in a low *carbon footprint.

Chief Executive of Bord Bia Tara McCarthy paid tribute to the achievements of all the finalists, saying: The farmers chosen as finalists for these awards are already regarded by the industry as being among the very best. Their commitment to sustainable production through the Origin Green programme and willingness to have their achievements judged by a panel of experts shows their ambition to be the best and to make the Irish food and drink industry a world leader.

She added: These are the farmers Bord Bia will be looking to when we are demonstrating to food buyers the solid foundations on which the Irish food and drink industry has been built and why it is sustainable into the future.

Participating farms meet high standards around hygiene, farm safety, traceability, animal welfare, remedy use and commitment to their locality.Drumshanbo Food Hub has been awarded 953,640 to allow for expansion and more staff to be employed.

The business will expand the food space by over 9000 square foot and the site is projecting 137 jobs by 2020.

This funding is being allocated to a number of regional projects under the Regional Enterprise Development Fund which is an open national competitive call to support regional projects. It is provided by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, through Enterprise Ireland and is a key action to support the Regional Action Plan for Jobs and the Action Plan for Rural Development. It was established to help to create sustainable jobs across the regions. It supports every region to build on its unique strengths, whether thats food, pharma, the bio-economy or anything else.



Deputy Tony McLoughlin welcomed the news saying "it is a testament to the strong applications that were submitted by the local committees involved.As a Government we need to continually challenge ourselves on how to create jobs outside of the main cities. Thats exactly what this fund does. It will directly support innovative projects in our regions and, in doing so, help to create rural jobs.



The jobs recovery is finally spreading into the regions with over 1200 new jobs announced in Sligo this year. In the last twelve months, four out five jobs created were outside Dublin and the live register figures in all of our regions are heading in the right direction. But theres still a long way to go and no room for complacency. I look forward to working with Minister Humphreys on more regional jobs initiatives for Sligo and Leitirm.

Also read: Works starts on new Shed Distillery Visitor CentreA LIMERICK mother has spoken of her familys anguish as they have been told that their toddler, who suffers with insomnia, speech and behavioural issues, will not be psychologically assessed for at least 12 months.

Doon nurse Erin Gaffney said that she and her husband Paul have been trying to secure appropriate care for their three-year-old son Dean, after receiving two referrals for early intervention in August.

Dean suffers with insomnia and presents with aggressive behaviour towards his parents and other children, Ms Gaffney said.

Though Dean is currently availing of play-based assessments at the East Limerick Children Services, Ms Gaffney said that her son urgently requires a psychological assessment as he has yet to be officially diagnosed with any condition. She said that Dean bangs his head off the floor and walls, and headbutts his parents.

He will slap, bite, pinch other children, especially smaller children, she said.

She has been informed that a diagnosis may not happen until early 2020.

And the Gaffneys personal anguish has been compounded by family sickness, financial hardship, homelessness risk and unsuccessful attempts to secure preschool and creche places. She said, eventually, she will have to leave her job to care for her son.

Paul was admitted to hospital this Monday with heart trouble, and Erin was unable to be at his bedside as she could not secure a childminder for their son.

He has had no time to himself for the last year, no time for exercise because he cant leave Dean, and he has no energy because we rarely get sleep for more than two nights in a row. We both eat poorly because its impossible to manage it all, takeaways are easier, she said.

She added: Im heartbroken. I cant be at the hospital with my husband to give him support when hes terrified hes going to die. There is no one absolutely to help us and to mind Dean now for this time in our lives when Paul needs me.

Erin also said that she cannot visit her mother, who was diagnosed with cancer, due to not being able to leave my son behind.

We have no support, no family left to mind him for short visits. My mum is the only person who was able to mind Dean for us.

Erin, Paul and Dean had to relocate to a small granny flat on a farm in Doon after their landlord sold their previous four-bed home in Murroe.

When the landlord sold this, we had no choice but to grab what we could. We couldnt afford the 1,000-plus rents in the city or, in fact, Murroe.

Ms Gaffney said that, after 10 months, a creche asked that they find another creche for Dean, claiming that they said: My creche isnt the right place for him.

She said the first preschool for Dean was too far away and a second preschool rang them the night before he was to start, suggesting he receive home tuition. Erin said when the creche gave the parents two weeks notice, she was very close to losing my job.

I rang frantically around, and realised when speaking to creches, they dont want any kids if they have a problem with behaviour.

Erin said that after she put in her notice at work, they found a minder who cares about children and havent looked back.

The minder looks after Dean while she is at work, three times a week.

But Ms Gaffney also spoke of the financial burden looking after their son. She said they have spent money on a speech app, sensory area, aquarium, toys and books.

On top of the child minder, Dean has been seen by an occupational therapist, as well as two GPs, paediatric development consultant and home tuition. They have also spent a lot of money on furnishing the granny flat to make it suitable to house Dean and my asthmatic husband Paul.

Because we nearly became homeless five to six months ago, we arent happy to have to pay for all of this. We need to save for a mortgage, we need permanent housing for our son.

She said she has applied for an assessment of need which, if successful, will mean her son can be seen to within three to six months.

And though Dean is now engaging with early intervention, they will have to wait until January and April until some services commence, she said. She said she is also being advised to seek private care, which could cost them up to 1,000.

Im afraid each day leaving my son with others. I am afraid he will continue to get worse if we dont get help. Im mostly afraid of residential care for his future. I do not want that for him.

Ms Gaffney said that she has issued a number of complaints to the HSE. The HSE told the Limerick Leader that it does not comment on individual cases.

All complaints received by the HSE are investigated in line with HSE Policy. Demands for assessments and Interventions in relation to childrens disability services have risen very significantly over the last six to seven years. This has resulted in increasing waiting times in relation to some childrens services. Additional resources have been allocated to try to meet the demand.THREE men have received lengthy prison sentences for their role in a shooting incident in Limerick during which another man sustained serious injuries.

The defendants  Emmett Kiely aged 27, of Maple Court, Kennedy Park, Ray Dore, aged 22, of Dromroe, Rhebogue and William Woodland, aged 25, of Shanabooly Road, Ballynanty  had admitted having suspicious possession of a 410 gauge Spanish made double-barrelled breech loading sawn-off shotgun at Maple Court Kennedy Park on July 11, 2017.

During a sentencing hearing Garda Barry Moylan said gardai were alerted to the shooting a short time after the victim  Terry Casey  presented at University Hospital Limerick having been driven there by a friend.

He said gardai later established the 23-year-old had arrived at the home of Emmett Kiely at around 2pm in the company of two younger relatives.

Judge Tom ODonnell was told there was a dispute between the victim and Mr Kiely at the time and that shortly after words were exchanged between the pair, the three defendants emerged from a rear gate.

Kiely then shouted give it to him at which point Dore discharged a shot directly at Terry Casey who later told gardai that he didnt realise he had been shot.

Detective Garda Moylan told John OSullivan BL, prosecuting, it was the State case that Kiely had orchestrated the shooting.

Imposing sentence, Judge Tom ODonnell said the defendants had shown a complete disregard for public safety in a busy residential area in broad daylight.

He noted Kiely was the prime motivator and that he was aware that Mr Casey was coming to his home.

Kiely was sentenced to 11 years imprisonment with the final three years suspended.

Dore, was sentenced ten years imprisonment with the final two and-a-half years suspended while Woodland, who was the least culpable of the three was sentenced to six years imprisonment with the final 18 months suspended.

Two other young men are due to be sentenced next month.ALL-Ireland winning hurlers William ODonoghue and Seamus Hickey will be the star turns at the annual Novas Christmas Sleep-Out.

For the third year in a row, dozens of people will bed down outside Brown Thomas in OConnell Street on Friday, December 21, in a bid to raise money to pay for Novass much needed homeless support services.

Kicking off at 7pm, a number of other members of Limericks victorious panel will bring the Liam MacCarthy cup to the event.

There will also be Christmas carols from Sinead OBrien.

Dr Una Burns, head of policy and communications with Novas said that they are so grateful for the support of the Limerick hurlers, particularly Murroe-Boher clubman Seamus, and Na Piarsaigh captain William.

She added: The sleep-out is Novas biggest fundraising campaign of the year and that we are looking for as many people as possible to get involved this year through sleeping out, donating online or fundraising on the night.

The money raised will go directly to our services in Limerick and the wider mid-west region, including our Street Outreach Service and the Intensive Family Support Service.

Seamus said he is getting involved in the sleep out, as a gesture of solidarity with the numerous individuals and families who through no fault of their own have fallen victim to homelessness.

I hope to raise funds for Novass excellent work and services for some of the most vulnerable people in our society, he added.

William, who is a county and All-Ireland champion, said taking part in the sleep-out allows him to get involved in an issue he already feels passionately about.

Similarly it is an opportunity to work with such a fantastic charity based in my local area which changes lives of so many people for the better, he added.

Its not the first time he has slept out to raise money for homelessness causes.

Last Christmas, the midfielder was among a group of over 400 current and former inter-county stars who took part in a sleep-out under the umbrella of Gaelic Voices for Change.

Then, William was joined by Ahane camogie star Niamh Mulcahy and former Limerick senior hurling captain Gavin OMahony.

To get involved in the sleep-out people can email chris.oconnor@novas.ie for further details and for sponsorship cards. People can also donate via Novas website or through the organisations idonate page here.

Donate to Will at https://give.everydayhero.com/ie/novas-christmas-sleep-out.

For more information, telephone Novass offices at 061-370325.SUSTAINABLE jobs are to be created in Limerick through a 29 million Regional Enterprise Development Fund.

Minister for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection Pat Breen has said the fund will support the Limerick and the Mid-West region as it builds on its strengths and ultimately creates sustainable jobs.

Two projects have received funding which will directly benefit Limerick  the BNest Social Initiative DAC; Limerick, Clare, Tipperary, Cork, Kerry, which received 603,400 and Innovate Limerick T/A Hospital Food Units DAC; Limerick, Clare, Tipperary, which will receive 2,279,073.

Minister Breen said: Twenty-one successful applicants representing all regions of the country have secured just over 29 million for their projects in the second call for proposals under the competitive Fund. Initially allocating 60m for two rounds of funding, the Fund will now operate on a rolling basis as part of Project Ireland 2040.

I want to commend all those who have participated in the competitive process. Through this funding, the Government is following through on our commitment to support the ambition, goals and implementation of the Regional Action Plan for Jobs and I look forward to seeing these projects have a big impact around the country, added Minister Breen.

BNest Social is an initiative that assists businesses seeking social impact to achieve viability and scale through development programmes, critical service supports and cluster development, and by so doing allow innovative ideas with significant potential for societal impact to evolve to sustainable commercial entities.

The Innovate Limerick (trading as Hospital Foods DAC) project will develop a Digital Collaboration Centre which aims to position the Mid-West region as a hub of applied disruptive technology innovation. The project seeks to narrow the innovation-adoption gap for global and indigenous companies across the region through regional collaborative disruptive technology applications in services and business processes, which will support start-ups, scaling, HPSU growth and talent attraction.

This Mondays announcement follows the award of 30.5 million in financial support to 21 applicants for a range of enterprise and capability development projects during the first call, released in December 2017. The awardees of the Second Call announced will fund projects with the remaining balance of the 60m under the REDF.A NEWLY discovered cache of previously unseen historical papers dating as far back as the 16th century have been presented to the University of Limerick.

Limerick Civic Trust presented the papers to the The Glucksman Library at UL on behalf of the Pery Family.

The recently discovered papers provide rich insight into the social, political and economical landscape of Limerick city and county from the 1500s to 1800s.

The papers were discovered by Sylvia Countess of Limerick in Sussex recently. They had been put aside by her father-in-law in 1962 after he had presented other papers of historical importance to the National Library.

The papers include two volumes of handwritten correspondence between Edmund Sexten, who was Mayor of Limerick in 1535, and the authorities in Dublin and London, while much of the archive document the life and times of the Pery family which has links with Limerick going back to the early 17th century. They also provide context and evidence to many of the military actions during that time.

The Glucksman Library at University of Limerick will now archive and digitize the papers so that they are available to the public.

We felt it was important that these papers are made available, at no cost, to anyone who has an interest in them and hope they support the research and work of historians and students, said Edmund Pery, the Earl or Limerick.

The Glucksman Library is the most obvious place to look after them given they are 100% about the city and county of Limerick. I would like to thank the Limerick Civic Trust for their encouragement and facilitation in bringing them back to where they belong.

The papers provide a wealth of information about the activities of prominent families like the Sextens, Thomonds, OBriens and Fitzgeralds.

The Account and Commonplace book of Colonel Edmund Pery from 1671 and 1681 provides more amusing insights into the daily concerns of that time. It includes a lengthy section on how to look after your horse and recipes and tips on how to get curly hair, get rid of unwanted hair, make cucumbers last the winter and keep wine fresh.

Director of the Glucksman Library, Gobnait ORiordan, said it was is delighted to receive these early manuscript records of the Pery family in Ireland from the Earl of Limerick and his family.

It is our intention to catalogue and digitise the material. It will then be made available to all researchers in the UL Digital Library in an open access environment. The University of Limerick is grateful to the Pery family and to the Limerick Civic Trust for bringing these manuscripts to Limerick.

The Civic Trust has a long-standing relationship with the Glucksman Library and previously presented its Oral History Archive to the Library in 2015 and its CEO David OBrien said: As part of our mandate to create a better understanding of our heritage,we carry out a lot of research on unpublished material.

These papers are fascinating and provide another layer to Limericks rich and colourful past. Were thrilled that they are going to the Glucksman Library to be protected, preserved and made accessible to everyone.A GROUNDBREAKING new Digital Collaboration Centre is to be built at the former Cecil Street Office of Public Works building.

The first of its kind in Ireland, the project was given a boost this Monday after the Minister for Business, Enterprise and innovation Heather Humphreys announced a grant of 2.2m to make the plan a reality.

The centre, news of which was exclusively revealed by the Limerick Leader back in February, will be located at 29 to 30 Cecil Street, right beside the existing Engine building, which rose from the ashes of the Dominican Biblical Institute.

It will work with multi-national firms, small to medium sized enterprises, start-up companies and third-level institutions.

Its been hailed as a game changer for Limerick businesses by the chief executive of the body which runs Engine, Innovates Mike Cantwell.

It will focus on business process improvement, rather than new technology development, and has been hailed as proof Limerick is a city and region on the rise by Mayor James Collins.

We are delighted with this morning's announcement that Innovate Limerick will receive 2.27million for a Digital Collaboration Centre under the Regional Enterprise Development Fund.#REDF @Entirl @LimerickCouncil pic.twitter.com/3XIxuMpTlH  Innovate Limerick (@innovatelmk) December 3, 2018

Also receiving a boost this Monday was the BNest social entrepreneurship centre, based at the University of Limerick, which secured a grant of 603,400 under the 29m Regional Enterprise Fund.

Speaking about the new digital centre, Mayor Collins, who is a board member of Innovate, added: It is a perfect example of how large multi-national companies and small firms are being provided with the best opportunities to do business and grow in this region. This project aims to position the Mid-West region as a hub of applied disruptive technology innovation.

Mr Cantwell added: As the first of its kind in the country it will narrow the innovation-adoption gap for global and indigenous companies across the region through regional collaborative disruptive technology applications in services and business processes, which will support start-ups, scaling, high-potential start-up growth and talent attraction. This is a very exciting time for all of us involved in building a brighter and prosperous future for Limerick.

Limerick council chief executive Conn Murray said: Weve made huge strides since we launched Innovate Limerick, which has been a major stimulant for employment and innovation in Limerick. This news is the latest positive development in what is a great period for Limerick. This reaffirms our status as a digital and technical hub and, thereby, strengthening Limericks profile as a great place to do business even further. A huge amount has gone into getting us to where we are today.

Mondays announcement follows the award of 30.5m in financial support to 21 applicants for enterprise and capacity development projects during the first call for funding, released this time last year.THE OVERALL winner of the Grassland Farmer of the Year Award is John Macnamara from Knockainey.

Now in its second year, the awards with an overall prize fund of 30,000, funded by the Department of Agriculture, recognises and rewards farmers who are achieving high levels of grass utilisation in a sustainable manner.

Fourteen finalists gathered in Teagasc Moorepark this Monday for the ceremony.

Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed said: The feedback from around the country is that the competition is really showing farmers what can be done with attention to detail and grass measurement. We have 14 finalists here today, who all have shown leadership and a high standard in grassland management and I want to congratulate all 14 for an outstanding performance.

While the accolades will go to the nine individual award winners, everybody here today is really showing leadership to the industry and in years like this, that is extremely important, he added.

As well as John and Olivia Macnamara winning the overall award they also took home the dairy enterprise award.

There was more Limerick success as Niall Moloney, Crecora was named Young Grassland Farmer of the Year. While John Leahy, Athea, won the most improved grassland merit award.

Teagasc chairman, Liam Herlihy said: 2018 has taught us how important grass production is to our beef, sheep and dairy enterprises. It gives us our comparative advantage in ruminant based production systems. This competition showcases the top farmers in the country who are using best practice in grassland management and the latest research on their farms.

The Teagasc web based grassland system, PastureBase Ireland, is a critical resource to these farmers grassland management systems.

The Grassland Farmer of the Year awards are part of the Teagasc Grass10 campaign which is supported by Teagasc, the Department of Agriculture, AIB, FBD Insurance, Grassland Agro and the Irish Farmers Journal.THE FINDINGS of a special report into the handling of pay for certain senior staff members at the University of Limerick are quite shocking the Dail Public Accounts Committee has heard.

A report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG) Seamus McCarthy last week found that in 2015, UL misrepresented the circumstances around two severance deals.

The report also found that on several occasions UL withheld relevant and material information from the office of the C&AG, the Department of Education and Skills and its own legal team.

The report also found the University added two employees from a commercial subsidiary company to the universitys State-funded pension scheme, where they received a pension bonus of 1.2m.

I read the report several times and I found it quite shocking, Sinn Fein deputy David Cullinane said.

Is it the case, and I want to be careful how I put this, is it the case that the university itself, and Im talking about Limerick, misled the C&AGs office previously in relation to documentation, was that the finding, Deputy Cullinane asked Mr McCarthy.

Yes and I think youll recall that when the university were here (at the PAC) they had to come back twice I think to make corrections to the information that was given to the committee, Mr McCarthy said.

So if we have a university that has misled the C&AG and the Department (of Education) and possibly this committee as well, that is incredible, Deputy Cullinane said.

We were getting push back from these universities - what are we asking questions for, were being too tough. It goes back to this perception from some in the commentariat that the PAC is overstepping the mark and that were unfair to witnesses.

Here is a situation, very clear to us now that we had accounting officers before us that didnt give us the information that we sought, in fact we were given inaccurate information, Deputy Cullinane added.

In a statement in the report, UL president Dr Des Fitzgerald said: Since coming into office in May 2017, I have put in place a new management structure, in particular the appointment of a Chief Operating Officer and Registrar to which Human Resources and Finance report.The human remains, but no hands, were found a few weeks ago on a rocky islet off the British Channel Island of Guernsey.

The body of a man without hands, thought to have been buried hundreds of years ago, has been found by archaeologists on a rocky islet off the coast of Guernsey, one of the British Channel Islands  just a few feet from where a mysterious medieval skeleton of a dolphin was found last year.

Phil De Jersey, a Guernsey government archaeologist, said the skeleton of the handless man appeared to have been buried much later than the baffling burial of that dolphin skeleton on the same islet, and therefore the two burials probably aren't related.

But he said that the latest find added much to the mystery of the rocky islet of Chapelle Dom Hue.

The islet lies about 900 feet (300 meters) from the west coast of Guernsey, overlooking the sea and the stones of a Neolithic burial ground on the mainland of the island. [25 Grisly Archaeological Discoveries]

The human remains appear to have been buried several hundred years ago on the islet of Chapelle Dom Hue. (Image credit: Guernsey Archaeology )

Though Chapelle Dom Hue is only about 50 feet (10 m) across today  so small that the sea at high tide cuts it into two pieces  archaeologists say it was once larger; during the medieval period, the islet was home to a colony of a few reclusive Christian monks, they said.

The archaeological team first thought the skeleton found this year might have been that of a monk who had suffered from leprosy, which might account for the missing wrists and hands, De Jersey told Live Science.

But some details of the remains of the man's clothes  especially the shirt buttons  made the researchers think that the body was buried in the 16th or 17th century, well after Chapelle Dom Hue was occupied by monks.

"Our working hypothesis at the moment is that this is a drowning, or a body washed up," De Jersey said. "It was given a quick but relatively respectful Christian burial at the spot where it got washed up on that island."

Dolphin burial

Last year, De Jersey reported that his team had found a dolphin skeleton that appeared to have been buried on the island sometime during the Middle Ages, when monks had lived there.

The human remains were buried only about 30 feet from the mysterious skeleton of a dolphin, found last year, that had been buried sometime in the Middle Ages. (Image credit: Guernsey Archaeology )

The carefully buried skeleton perplexed the archaeologists because it might have easily been just dumped in the sea a few yards away, without the trouble of a burial.

The dolphin carcass, De Jersey said, might have been buried with salt to preserve it for eating, and then forgotten; or perhaps it was regarded as a holy animal  although his research has not revealed why a dolphin would be regarded as holy at that time and place.

Subsequent studies of the dolphin skeleton tended to confirm that it was buried on the islet in the early 1400s, but no further light had been shed on the mysterious burial, he told Live Science.

The human burial on the island had come to light in the last few months as a small cliff had weathered away, about 30 feet (10 m) from the site where the dolphin skeleton had been found, he said. Eventually the weathering revealed the upper part of a foot and toe bones. Archaeologists then excavated the site and found the remains of a man about 5 feet tall, but without any hands or wrist bones.

Mystery man

De Jersey now thinks the human body washed up on the islet and was buried there some time in the 1500s or 1600s.

Archaeologists think the remains may be of a seaman who drowned and floated at sea before being washed up on the islet. (Image credit: Guernsey Archaeology)

The hands of bodies that have drifted at sea are often eaten by fish; in fact, the skull of the body showed signs of damage that could have happened when it drifted up among rocks on the shore.

The lower part of the left arm is also missing, but "the feet have survived relatively well, perhaps because it had some sort of footwear," he said.

The archaeological team will try to get a radiocarbon date on the skeleton, but the remains of a few buttons on his shirt suggest that it was later than the medieval period.

"Buttons in the early medieval period were quite rare and unusual, and these look to me like something later that might have been part of a sailor's dress," he said.

So far, the dolphin and human skeletons are the only skeletal remains found in the islet of Chapelle Dom Hue, but De Jersey won't rule out the possibility that there still may be bones to find: "There is not a huge amount of space over there left to find more things, but who knows?"

"There was a little bit of excavation done there by an archaeologist in the 1890s," De Jersey said. "He wrote about it, and said that he didn't think it was worth going back there again, because there was nothing more to be said about the place  and I quite like that because, really, how wrong could he be?"

Originally published on Live Science.A longtime Bay Area journalist and radio host was found dead in Paducah, Ky., three weeks after he had been reported missing, officials said Monday.

The Paducah Police Department confirmed Taliaferros death Monday morning in a Facebook post. Two teenagers found his body Sunday afternoon, police wrote. An investigation into Taliaferros disappearance and death is ongoing.

The family of Raphael Ray Taliaferro posted an update to a GoFundMe page Sunday night announcing his death. His body was found in a wooded area about a mile from the pizza shop where he was last seen in Paducah, the family wrote.

The family is in the process of working with the police to learn the matters surrounding his death, the statement said. At this time, we are processing this turn of events and ask for privacy as we work through our loss.

Taliaferros wife had reported the 79-year-old missing around 9:30 a.m. Nov. 10, in Massac County, Ill. Around six hours later, witnesses told officials they saw him in Paducah, Ky., roughly 20 miles away and just over the state border.

According to a missing person flyer posted by the Massac County Sheriffs Office, Taliaferro was last seen speaking with the manager at the Mellow Mushroom restaurant in Paducah. The poster also said the 79-year-old may have been experiencing disorientation and signs of dementia.

Calls to the Paducah Police Department and Massac County Sheriffs Office about Taliaferros disappearance and death were not immediately returned.

Taliaferro worked as a journalist and news anchor for San Franciscos KGO-AM radio and KRON-TV. In 1994, the San Francisco Black Chamber of Commerce honored him with the Black Chamber Life Award, according to the National Association of Black Journalists.

The 1994 award recognized Taliaferro as a forerunner in broadcasting.

The association inducted him into its hall of fame in January 2011. The association created the Ray Taliaferro NABJ Entrepreneurial Spirit Award in his honor to recognize journalistic entrepreneurship among members of the association.

Ashley McBride is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: ashley.mcbride@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ashleynmcbUsing a special blimp, authorities in Zapata seized more than 600 pounds of marijuana and arrested four people who had entered the country illegally.

The seizure happened Wednesday night in an area of Falcon Lake. At about 6:30 p.m., Border Patrol personnel operating an aerostat, or aerodynamic balloon, spotted two vessels approaching the U.S. banks.

READ ALSO: Mugshots: Pair of Laredo men arrested after vehicle pursuit ends with large drug seizure

Agents said they responded to the area once the vessels made landfall. A search of the area yielded two immigrants and 53 bundles of marijuana that weighed 602 pounds. Border Patrol said the pot had an estimated street value of $482,192. Agents also came across two more immigrants.

The Zapata County Sheriff's Office assisted in the case.

"The Zapata County townsite along Paradise Point, FM 3074, and FM 496 were searched and scanned by different law enforcement agencies to prevent any further illegal activity and smuggling," the Sheriff's Office said in a statement. "The presence of the Zapata County Sheriff's Office, U.S. Border Patrol, Texas Parks and Wildlife game wardens and The Department Of Public Safety will be working together hand in hand to keep the community of Zapata safe."

Drug Enforcement Administration special agents took over the case.

RELATED: Border Patrol seizes $24K, steroids at checkpoint, Mexican citizen arrested

Border Patrol uses special blimps that are part of the Tethered Aerostat Radar System, or TARS, to watch over the southern U.S. border. Each balloon is moored to the ground with a special nylon fiber cable, and raised and lowered with a powered winch. The aerostats are unmanned, unarmed, and spend their service lives hovering over a fixed location on the southern edge of the border.

Each balloon contains a radar weighing about 2,200 pounds, capable of detecting aircraft at a range of 200 miles.A suspect has been identified in connection with the fatal shooting that occurred Saturday in south Laredo, authorities said.

According to police, an altercation between a 16-year-old male juvenile and a 20-year-old man ended with shots being fired. The 20-year-old was killed and the juvenile was wounded, according to Laredo police.

The juvenile was taken to University Hospital in San Antonio, where he is recovering under police custody.

READ MORE: Fatal shooting in south Laredo marks 11th homicide of 2018

He has been charged with murder via an arrest warrant.

The identity of the 20-year-old who died has not been released, pending the notification of family members.

The incident marked the city's 11th homicide this year.

The case unfolded when officers responded to a report of shots fired at about 2:30 a.m. in the 4700 block of Sunrise Courts, near the intersection of South Ejido Avenue and La Pita Mangana Road.

Authorities said they found a man who had been shot. He died at the scene.

RELATED: Laredo woman gets 15 years for 2003 shooting death of husband

During the investigation, detectives learned that the juvenile had arrived at the Doctors Hospital South on 2901 Jaime Zapata Memorial Highway. Police said he had an apparent gunshot wound to the arm.

Investigators learned through witness statements that the juvenile was the shooter, authorities said.

Police said that an altercation ensued between him and the 20-year-old. Seconds later, shots rang out. It's unclear what the altercation was over.

CORRECTION: This article has been updated. LPD initially said the homicide suspect was a 17-year-old man. Police later issued a correction, saying the suspect's age was 16, not 17.Nov. 22

At 12:50 p.m., an Officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in reference to a resident, who found a laptop, which belonged to GEICO.

Nov. 23

An Officer observed a vehicle bearing TX Dealer Temp Tag that was not registered with the state of Texas. The driver of the vehicle was and ultimately taken into custody for warrants through HPD. Upon searching the suspect, a small bag containing a white powdery substance was located on the suspect. A field test on the substance yielded a positive result for narcotics. The driver (Jorge Rodriguez) was arrested and charged with the offense of possession of a control substance.

An officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby for a report of a forgery.

An officer was dispatched to a residence located in the 4200 block of Tennyson in regard to fraudulent activity.

Nov. 24

An officer observed a vehicle traveling westbound in the 4100 block of Bissonnet with no taillight illuminated. A traffic stop was conducted and contact was made with the driver and passenger. It was later discovered that the vehicle was recently stolen out of Houston. A To-Be warrant for Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle and Criminal trespass was filed.

An officer observed a vehicle traveling, above the posted speed limit, westbound in the 4100 block of Bissonnet. A traffic stop was conducted and during a search of the vehicle, the driver admitted to being in possession of a vape possibly containing an illegal narcotic. The vape was seized to be tested for the presence of illegal substances and the driver was released from the scene after being cited for traffic violations.

Nov. 25

Officers were dispatched to a disturbance in progress at the 5300 block of Kirby. The suspect was detained and later transported to a hospital.

Nov. 26

Officers were in the area of 2600 W. Holcombe and 6700 Annapolis investigating a suspicious person call. During the area search, officers observed a subject, who was stopped to ask if he had witnessed the incident. While speaking to this individual, a strong odor of marijuana was detected coming from this person. It was determined the individual qualified to participate in the Harris County Misdemeanor Marijuana Diversion Program and elected to do so when asked. The marijuana was seized and the individual was released from the scene.

Nov. 27

An Officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in regards of a forgery report.

Nov. 28

At 9:17 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in reference to a report of found property.

At 11:30 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the Houston Police Department Jail to pick up a prisoner with outstanding warrants with the West University Place Police Department. The prisoner (Sidney Johnson) was transported to the West University Place Jail for booking without incident.

At 5:03 p.m., an officer generated a report in regards to a case of identity theft.

At 2:45 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 2700 block of Centenary in regards to a theft that just occurred.

Nov. 29

At 10:11 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the West U PD Lobby in reference to a case of identity theft.

At 3:56 p.m., an officer was dispatched to 4700 block of Westheimer to meet with Memorial Villages who had a suspect detained for outstanding warrants with the city of West University Place. The suspect (Diego Gonzalez) was arrested and transferred to the West University jail facility and booked in without incident.

An officer observed a traffic violation in the 2600 block of Wroxton. The driver (Briana Wilson) was subsequently arrested for possession of a prohibited weapon.From a foreign film showing to a craft market, there's plenty to enjoy in Houston this week. Read on for a rundown of ideas for how to fill your calendar.

Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions.

SLY (Maarmouz)

Catch the film SLY (Maarmouz), presented by Daricheh Cinema, an Iranian comedy film from 2018 directed by Kamal Tabrizi. The movie tells the tale of Ghodrat-Alla Samadi, who wants to become of a member of the Iranian parliament, but is blocked by his reckless reputation. Things change when he's connected with a notorious incident.

The film is in Farsi with English subtitles and is 90 minutes long.

When: Thursday, December 6, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Where: Landmark River Oaks Theatre, 2009 W. Gray St.

Admission: $15

Click here for more details, and to get your tickets

Metamorphic Threads - Transforming Timeless Designs

Attend this annual fashion showcase put on by the Houston Community College's fashion design and fashion merchandising students. The students have transformed everyday items and materials into fashionable creations.

When: Friday, December 7, 7:30-9 p.m.

Where: HCC Learning Hub, 1300 Holman St., Floor 1

Admission: $10

Click here for more details, and to get your tickets

Champagne Drip & Um.. at Houston Underground

This double concert features Champagne Drip and um.. at Houston Underground.

Champagne Drip is the music project of Los Angeles-based producer Sam Pool, whose music is in the DripHop genre. Recent releases are two EPs from 2016, "Poseidon" and "Of Course I Still Love You."

um.. is a duo that puts out electronic music.

When: Friday, December 7, 10 p.m.-Saturday, December 8, 2 a.m.

Where: Houston Underground, 850 McKee St.

Admission: $15 (General Admission)

Click here for more details, and to get your tickets

Griff's Craft Beer and Christmas Crafts Festival

This craft fair brings together both craft beers and craft goods from local brewers and artisans. Breweries will bring their best brews and local artists will be on site so you can get some shopping done for Christmas. There will also be live music, food and more available.

When: Saturday, December 8, 2-6 p.m.

Where: 3416 Roseland St.

Admission: Free

Click here for more details, and to registerWASHINGTON -- The Supreme Court this week takes up the case of a small-time Alabama felon, Terance Gamble, who complains that his convictions by state and federal prosecutors for the same gun possession crime violate constitutional protections against double jeopardy.

But likely to be watching the proceedings closely will be those concerned about a big-time felon, Republican consultant and former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, who was prosecuted by Special Counsel Robert Mueller for tax fraud.

With President Donald Trump keeping alive prospects that he might pardon Manafort, Gamble v. United States might be redubbed Manafort v. Mueller, joked Thomas Goldstein, an attorney who regularly argues before the Supreme Court.

The outcome in the case could affect nascent plans by states to prosecute Manafort under their own tax evasion laws - New York, in particular, has expressed interest - should Trump pardon Manafort on his federal convictions.

The Double Jeopardy Clause of the Constitution's 5th Amendment prohibits more than one prosecution or punishment for the same offense. But the Supreme Court since the 1850s has made an exception, allowing successive prosecutions and punishments if one is brought by state prosecutors and the other by the federal government. (One early case from that time involved counterfeiting; another was prosecution of someone harboring a fugitive slave.)

In Gamble, the court is reconsidering these precedents. Almost none of the briefs filed in the case speculate on how a presidential pardon of a federal conviction would affect prosecutors at the state level should the separate sovereigns doctrine be renounced.

But the issue is being debated loudly online. While Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to the Supreme Court was pending, a theory emerged in some circles that the Trump administration was in a hurry to get him on the Supreme Court in time to have him participate in the case.

The reality of Gamble v. United States is more complicated than that. For one, the court accepted the case before Kavanaugh's nomination. And it is unclear how the new justice would vote on the issue or whether he is pivotal to the outcome.

For another, Trump's Justice Department urged the Supreme Court not to take the case. It says the status quo, allowing state and federal prosecutions, should remain in place.

That hasn't stopped the speculation involving Manafort, who was convicted over the summer in Virginia of bank and tax fraud and in September pleaded guilty in the District to two other felonies as part of an agreement to cooperate with Mueller's investigation into the Trump campaign's alleged contacts with Russian operatives. On Monday, the special counsel's office said Manafort had breached his Washington, D.C., plea agreement by lying to investigators.

Speaking to reporters Thursday, Trump reiterated that he had not offered a pardon to Manafort but that he wasn't taking it off the table. "I have never seen anybody treated so poorly," he said of his former campaign chairman.

A spokesman for Manafort declined to comment for this article.

The real motivation for the court to reconsider the separate sovereigns doctrine came from liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who expressed the desire in an opinion two years ago. Her ally in that call? Conservative Justice Clarence Thomas.

"The double jeopardy proscription is intended to shield individuals from the harassment of multiple prosecutions for the same misconduct," Ginsburg wrote in 2016. "Current 'separate sovereigns' doctrine hardly serves that objective."

As the Ginsburg-Thomas alliance shows, concern about the doctrine is shared across the ideological divide.

"You see conservatives and liberals coming together on this issue," said Brianne Gorod, chief counsel at the liberal Constitutional Accountability Center, who filed an amicus brief on Gamble's behalf.

Their agreement reflects "a shared concern among many progressives and conservatives that there are profound problems in our criminal justice system - one manifestation of which is people being sentenced to jail time twice for the same offense, notwithstanding a constitutional provision designed to prevent exactly that," Gorod said.

Because the states and federal government are separate sovereigns, the court has reasoned in the past, each has an interest in prosecuting someone for violating its laws, even for the exact same conduct.

The court recently signaled how seriously it is taking the question of overturning its precedent: It expanded the time allotted for oral argument. Besides hearing from Gamble's lawyer, the court will hear separately from the Justice Department and the state of Texas, which heads a group of 36 states objecting to any change in the law.

Sherrilyn Ifill, president of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, said at a preview of the Supreme Court term this fall that the case raises conflicting issues. On the one hand, successive prosecutions of the same offense seem unfair.

But on the other, it has been a handy tool for enforcing civil rights from the 1960s to more recent times. For instance, federal prosecutors brought charges against the Los Angeles police officers who beat motorist Rodney King in California after state trials ended in acquittals.

"The federal government possesses the solemn obligation to vigorously enforce the nation's civil rights laws, including the relevant federal criminal civil rights laws," says a brief filed by the Thurgood Marshall Civil Rights Center at the Howard University School of Law. "Consequently, any modification or abolition of the dual sovereignty doctrine will necessarily impact the future direction of federal criminal civil rights enforcement."

The federal government and the states argue that they have their own laws to uphold and that they do not abuse the right.

"Each state has a strong interest in its sovereign power to prosecute violations of its laws regardless of the prosecutorial decisions of other sovereigns, whether the federal government or other states," says a brief filed by Texas and 35 other states.

At the same time, more than 20 states have their own restrictions on prosecuting crimes for which an individual has already been prosecuted, as does the Department of Justice.

In its brief, the department says it is better for state and local prosecutors to decide between themselves who should be responsible for a case. There is a federal policy saying federal officials should step in after a state prosecution only where there is a significant national interest.

But Gamble's lawyers say his case proves those protections don't mean much; their client's case held no special significance. "If the government believes that a 'substantial federal interest' is present in a [routine] gun possession case, when will the policy ever bar re-prosecution?" said lawyer Louis Chaiten, who represents Gamble.

The Justice brief notes the power of the president to issue pardons affects only federal convictions. But would a ruling for Gamble make it impossible for states to bring charges against someone who received a pardon?

Not necessarily, said Gorod, as the specific elements of a state and federal case may be different.

"As an initial matter, a pardon on federal charges would, if anything, only block state prosecutions for the same offense," she said. But the Supreme Court has explained in a previous case that "two offenses are not the same if each requires proof of a fact that the other does not."

---

The Washington Post's Spencer S. Hsu contributed to this report.At first, Gillian Genser thought the headaches and vomiting were just the latest signs of autoimmune disorders she had battled for years. But then the symptoms got stranger. She felt agitated. She'd wake up nearly unable to move. Hearing vanished from one ear. Her muscles cramped and her speech slurred.

What was going on? For years, doctors were baffled by what was afflicting the Toronto-based sculptor.

Then, a blood test three years ago came back positive for heavy-metal poisoning. And Genser realized her art was killing her.

"I was flabbergasted," Genser, 59, told The Washington Post. "Absolutely flabbergasted."

For 15 years, Genser had been grinding up mussel shells to create a sculpture of Adam, the first man. She had no idea, though, that mussels can accumulate toxins, like lead and arsenic, over years of feeding in polluted waters. When Genser breathed in the shell dust or touched the powdery remains, some of that metal made its way into her body, too.

For Genser, who first wrote about her case in Toronto Life magazine on Nov. 28, the poisoning is deeply ironic. By using a natural material, like mussel shells, to depict a biblical character, she wanted to comment on humanity's skewed relationship with the now-contaminated natural world.

"The work was an environmental statement. It's about reconsidering what people's first perception of the ecosystem should have been, rather than this idea that we have dominion over all the animals," she said. "So it's very interesting and ironic that Adam, as the first man, was so toxic. He poisoned me. Doesn't that make sense, because we poisoned the world starting with this very poor notion?"

Genser began sculpting with unorthodox media in 1991, when she started selling small sculptures in Toronto made from egg shells before moving on to projects crafted with coral, bones, and plants. In 1998, she finished a sculpture of Lilith, the first woman in Jewish folklore, made from egg shells. She decided her next project would be the first man, Adam, and soon found the perfect material to make him: Blue mussel shells from Canada's Atlantic coast, bought in bulk in Toronto's Chinatown.

She loved how the shells looked - "The mussel shells are fabulous for replicating muscle striations" - and felt good about sculpting with a substance taken straight from a nearby ecosystem.

She'd spend up to 12 hours a day molding the shells with a dentist's drill. While she ventilated her studio, she didn't make any special effort to avoid the shell byproducts, assuming they were benign.

But almost immediately after starting the work, Genser started feeling ill. After years living with various autoimmune disorders, she was used to her body betraying her. But she soon realized these symptoms were different. As her limbs alternately ached and became immobile, she suffered neurological ailments as well. At her worst moments, she could barely speak, lost her short-term memory and stopped recognizing close friends.

She saw a litany of specialists in neurological health and psychiatrists who prescribed antipsychotics and antidepressants, but nothing seemed to help.

"To be fair to my doctors, they did ask me, 'Are you working with anything toxic?' And I'd say, 'No no, I'm working with all natural materials, and we'd all move on,'" she said. "I was so certain that these mussels, which the government said I could eat safely and buy in the market as food, could never be bad for me."

It wasn't until 2015 when Genser first saw a specialist who tested her blood for heavy metals. The results were emphatic: She had high levels of arsenic and lead in her system. She was shocked, but still confused - as to how had she ingested those dangerous compounds?

That's when she talked to a professor at Toronto's Royal Ontario Museum who specialized in invertebrates. The specialist was horrified that she had used mussel shells for years in her work. "He told me, 'People don't realize how poisonous these things are,'" she said.

Genser immediately stopped working with the shells but she said she has had little luck treating her condition. She described her quality of life as "poor," and still suffers memory lapses and nausea. She said she will be at a higher risk of neurological diseases, like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

But she doesn't hold any of that pain against the aquatic creatures whose shells secretly wrecked her body.

"I stop to think about the mussels and how they cannot leave their polluted habitats we have just dumped all this poison into," she said. "I feel terrible grief for them. We did this to them, they didn't do it to me."Here we go again.

The federal government is at the precipice of another shutdown, this time a partial one, if Congress can't reach an agreement soon on seven outstanding appropriations bills. The deadline to pass those bills is Friday at midnight, but the funeral for former President George H.W. Bush complicated that schedule, so the lawmakers have agreed to push the deadline back two weeks, until Dec. 21.

Let's take a quick look at all that is at stake this month.

- - -Why would it be a partial shutdown?

Lawmakers were quite proud of themselves this year when they were able to pass brand new spending bills for important areas such as defense, education, veterans affairs and energy, so all of those related agencies and programs are securely funded for fiscal 2019. But Congress couldn't finish seven other appropriations bills before the midterms, so lawmakers packaged them together in a short-term continuing resolution that they set to expire Friday. Those include funding for the departments of Homeland Security, Commerce, State, Justice and Interior, among others. With limited time before the end of the year, all the bills will need to pass as one big omnibus, which means any sticking point could upend the whole thing. Which brings us to . . .

- - -What's the major sticking point?

Simply, the biggest issue is funding for President Donald Trump's border wall. It's his signature issue, one that he's been promising since the early days of his campaign (back when he said Mexico would pay for it), and now he says he'd allow the government to shut down if the spending package doesn't include $5 billion for his wall. The Democrats have conceded to $1.67 billion for enhanced border security, but Trump isn't satisfied. Meanwhile, some Democrats wonder why a deal was made in the first place, especially one that didn't include protections for "dreamers," the undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children.

- - -

Wait. You said the Justice Department would shut down? What about the Mueller investigation?

Just because the government "shuts down" doesn't mean everything grinds to a halt. Essential personnel keep working, and federal programs often have enough funds to keep operating. The special counsel currently investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election would continue its work. Special counsel Robert Mueller's office is "funded from a permanent indefinite appropriation and would be unaffected in the event of a shutdown," a Justice Department spokesperson told CNN on Wednesday. "The appropriations bills before Congress do not touch" the special counsel's office.

- - -So, what would shut down?

That's hard to say. The agencies are all responsible for putting together shutdown contingency plans. But if prior government shutdowns are a guide, perhaps the most visible effect is the closing of national parks across the country. Hundreds of thousands of federal workers could be furloughed without pay (though Congress usually approves back pay). But most of the government's most pressing responsibilities continue, according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget: In prior shutdowns, border protection, in-hospital medical care, air traffic control, law enforcement and power grid maintenance were among the services classified as essential, while some legislative and judicial staff had been largely protected. Mandatory spending not subject to annual appropriations, such as for Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, also continues. Other examples of activities that continue are those funded by permanent user fees not subject to appropriations, such as immigration services funded by visa fees

- - -Remind me what happened in the last shutdown?

There as a shutdown for two days at the beginning of this year, but the biggie was in 2013. It was fall 2013, and the major fight was over funding the Affordable Care Act. Republicans in the House refused to fund the government unless Obamacare was defunded. The idea to hold the rest of the government hostage to kill the health care law was spawned by Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas. You may remember his 21-hour filibuster, in which he famously read his daughter "Green Eggs and Ham" through C-SPAN. But as the shutdown wore on, some moderate Republicans realized that optically they were going to be blamed for it and started working on a plan to get the government running again. Slowly they peeled off enough Republicans to support reopening the government. The bill passed with all Democrats and 87 Republicans supporting it, a rare moment when the majority leadership let a bill come to the floor knowing it wouldn't receive majority support from its caucus.

- - -Was there any political fallout last time?

Yes and no. Immediately after the 16-day shutdown, the public overwhelmingly blamed Republicans. But by next year's midterms, Republicans expanded their majority in the House and took over the Senate, so they gained power. Now that is probably despite the shutdown shenanigans, not because of them, but voters didn't hold it against them for long. So, while it's likely that Republicans would get blamed again if the government shuts down this time, it's hard to say what the long-term electorate effects of that will be. (In other words, will anyone care by 2020?)

- - -So what now?

Well, on Tuesday, Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., and presumptive incoming Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., are headed to the White House for a private, no-Republicans-invited, sit-down with Trump to discuss funding the government. Trump seems to like "Chuck and Nancy," and it wouldn't be unheard of that they emerge with a deal that is later scuttled by Republicans in Congress. The pressure is going to be on Pelosi not to make a deal, though, especially since she still needs her caucus' support to secure the speakership in January. What's likely to happen is that they'll agree to a continuing resolution (the technical name for kicking the can down the road) to keep the government funded until at least Dec. 21.

- - -But it's Christmas!

Yes, and there's nothing lawmakers hate more than spending the holidays at the Capitol. Their eagerness to get home could motivate them to get these bills done, but that doesn't solve the problem of Trump threatening not to sign anything without border wall money. And it wouldn't be unprecedented for Congress to work through the holidays. In 2009, the Senate stayed to vote on the Affordable Care Act and passed it on Christmas Eve. Then, in 2012, both chambers spent New Year's Eve in the Capitol to negotiate a deal to avoid a "fiscal cliff."

- - -This seems like a really inefficient way to govern, no?

Yes, and it's somewhat of a recent phenomenon, particularly this now-common occurrence of bringing the government right to the brink of shutting down because Congress can't get through the appropriations process. It's more than a little ironic that this battle is getting sidelined to memorialize Bush who, as president, worked with Democrats in Congress to balance the budget through tax increases and spending cuts and who said during his inaugural address, "The American public did not send us here to bicker."

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Video: Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer on Nov. 27 said Democrats would not agree to President Trump's request for $5 billion to fund a southern border wall.(The Washington Post)

Embed code:Film has been dying almost since the day it was born. Sound, television, video and the first glimmers of the digital era all seemed to portend the fatal end of "real" moving images.

When Turner and Warner Bros. Digital Networks announced in October that they were shutting down FilmStruck - the streaming service for cinephiles that hosted the Criterion Collection and hundreds of independent and art house titles - the responses rehearsed a familiar routine. The event signaled a worrying "erasure" of film history and an "erosion" of film culture. In short, film was dying - again. And yet, something was profoundly strange in these acts of mourning. The medium was not under threat by time or some new technology. Its death was instead all but guaranteed by the disappearance of a digital service. FilmStruck's last day was Thursday, Nov. 29.

As news of the closure began to spread, a petition to #savefilmstruck circulated, describing the platform as "dedicated to preserving film history." FilmStruck was compared to a range of physical spaces: a library, an archive and a neighborhood video store with a connoisseur clerk. Losing FilmStruck, it was suggested, was like losing a great public or local institution.

But of course, FilmStruck was never a library or a film archive. It was a for-profit streaming platform that provided access to those who could pay for it. AT&T acquired the service (and Time Warner) during the summer of 2018, and its closure is part of the company's plan to reorganize its media properties and launch a streaming service that will compete with Netflix and Amazon. (Criterion, meanwhile, has announced plans to launch its own streaming service and keep its collection online).

One thing overlooked in the lamentations about FilmStruck is the brevity of its life span. FilmStruck launched in 2016 and disappeared just two years later. The failure of such a short-lived service cannot possibly be a threat to film history in any way that matters. Rather, it is a crisis in the digital fantasies of the 21st century: that (privileged) people can have on-demand access to the wealth of human culture.

Extraordinary (and more long-standing) film archives exist, by the way, and many of them are digitizing and experimenting: the Library of Congress recently launched a "National Screening Room." The National Film Board of Canada hosts hundreds of films and produces some of the most innovative interactive cinema around. Amsterdam's EYE Filmmuseum has long supported open-access experimentation. And the Internet Archive makes all kinds of film digital and downloadable. The list goes on and on. We are living in an era of extraordinary online abundance. But the films you find in these venues might not be the ones you think you want (or need). In these virtual spaces, narrative films are outnumbered by the neglected bounty of the 20th century: early film artifacts, small-gauge formats, amateur genres, short cinemas and literal film fragments.

For the New Yorker's Richard Brody, a rare FilmStruck skeptic, the service encouraged cinephiles to dematerialize their collections and tether themselves to a precarious subscription system. He argues, "Whatever's worth revisiting over the years is worth owning." Then again, owning a vast collection of titles is its own kind of privilege.

In my view, the collapse of FilmStruck might go some way toward reminding us of the fundamental virtuality of film and film spectatorship. Even if we own all the films we love, what we actually love is not the object that we can hold in our hands. As the University of Chicago film scholar D.N. Rodowick has argued, film is a fundamentally ephemeral bit of shared space and time. It is not something we can ultimately possess - and for most of the 20th century, we had no expectations of doing so.

One of the supporters of the petition to save the service, director Guillermo del Toro, compared the demise of FilmStruck to an act of environmental annihilation (at the very moment that his home was threatened by wildfires in California): "Much like people care for the carbon footprint and the duplication of natural resources, we are living in a massive deforestation of film culture." It is a moving (and utopian) kind of image - a forest of film trees - but it overlooks the unnatural materiality of film artifacts and the contingencies of film preservation.

If film can be said to have a "natural" disposition, it is one that inclines toward deterioration and self-destruction. Film is, in fact, a medium that dies - that is dying. But the threat to film comes from film. Film stock decays into an explosive gas (worst case) or a brittle vinegary mess (better case). Film artifacts are fragile, vulnerable and unstable, even (and some argue, especially) when they are transferred to digital formats. Put another way: If film is a tree, it is also the deforestation. Film preservation does not maintain the natural order, but disrupts it. It intervenes and prevents a small number of films from becoming fire or dust. (There is also an environmental argument against film preservation; it takes a lot of fossil fuels to keep film intact and servers running.)

FilmStruck never offered access to anything close to film history. It sold a sliver of "classics" and masterpieces that has always masqueraded as the whole. Many lauded the service for the diversity of its curatorial staff and its efforts to highlight films by women, people of color and queer artists - and the attention it paid to non-Anglophone film traditions. All to the good. However, feature-length narrative cinema made by mostly white male auteurs dominated the collection.

These are not the films that need seeing or saving. They may not circulate widely in popular culture, but they account for almost our entire institutional and disciplinary canon. And despite the collective anxiety about their disappearance, they will endure in archives, film studies programs, and, yes, even online. You can still access many of these works right now (on DVD, on other for-profit streaming services, and on Kanopy, a digital service for public library users).

More radically, however, we might ask whether these are the works we need to rescreen or urge others to discover.

In her FilmStruck postmortem, Ann Hornaday of The Washington Post wondered how artists would carry on without it: "The artists that studios and especially streaming platforms are courting with profligate amounts of money won't be able to create a vibrant, new film language without a firm footing in fundamentals that go back way further than 'Pulp Fiction'or 'Star Wars.'" Let's set aside the conflation of FilmStruck with an archival institution as well as Hornaday's rosy vision of the contemporary artist (pockets lined with cash).

The argument that any future of film practice will depend upon a deep and rigorous knowledge of film history is well worn. I hear it often and once held the view myself. But I don't think it holds up to historical scrutiny or common sense. The film forms of the 20th century - which were neither exclusively narrative, nor limited to European and North American practitioners - developed without access to anything close to the kind and quantity of moving images in circulation today. Whatever the "language" of 20th-century cinema was, it did not require the kind of training that Hornaday and others advocate for. The art cinema that stands in here for historical "fundamentals" (let alone the art house itself) did not even exist until the latter half of the 20th century.

The argument that we need immersion in the masters of film to make digital images for streaming platforms is either a category error or an effort to protect against the future - that is, to ensure that whatever is to come resembles the powers of the past. If the concern were really about access, rather than taste, privilege, auteurism and connoisseurship, the people lamenting FilmStruck might be advocating for greater funding to film libraries and archives and more experimental models of open access and public engagement. What we need is not a deep introduction to narrow "fundamentals" but a more expansive and inclusive understanding of what film is, can be and has been.

I have my own film-forest fantasy. I like to imagine a generation of makers and thinkers who move nimbly around amateur cinemas and home movies, nontheatrical and orphan (i.e., unauthored) works, minor archives and artifacts, analog and digital images, television and video art; who take the profound absences in the archive as opportunities to imagine both past and future; who make films that resist the lure of storytelling and perhaps even push us to think beyond human experience; and who understand their work as an incessant and undisciplined borrowing and remixing, as belonging to multiple communities and histories. What an absolute gift it would be to escape the corrupt inheritance of the auteur - a 20th-century invention; film scholars have the receipts - and the long shadow of a canon that has compelled generations of students to mimic the powers of patriarchy and colonialism, to play at corporate theater, or to wonder about their own exclusion from what they see on screen.

I often tell my students that film history could always be otherwise. After all, film history is not a comprehensive body of works tucked away in an archive or accessible via a streaming service, but a puzzling collection of fragments and holes and remains. What remains has been left there by some contingency (it did not burn in a fire or disappear into ash) or ideology (archives, historians, scholars, critics made choices about what mattered enough to preserve). There are others ways of understanding what has been left behind and rethinking what we know.

Tracing these other routes through the past and preserving a different film future might just require that we kill a few hundred films - or finally let them die.WASHINGTON - The body of former President George H.W. Bush arrived at the U.S. Capitol on Monday afternoon to begin several days of Washington tributes with all the solemn ceremony befitting a nation's late leader.

The president's cortege, in a flight of gleaming black limousines, arrived on a fading autumn day at the traditional site of public leave-taking after a journey from Houston, where Bush died Friday at the age of 94.

As the sky grew pink and the U.S. Army Band played hymns, an eight-man military team of bearers carried the casket up the long flight of stairs at the eastern front of the Capitol.

The crash of an artillery salute echoed over the grounds.

Inside, the casket was placed on the same pine board catafalque, covered in black fabric, that held the coffin of Abraham Lincoln after he was assassinated in 1865.

One hundred eighty feet above, in the "eye" of the Rotunda, was the 1851 fresco depicting the exaltation of the nation's first president, George Washington.

Scores of dignitaries and legislators were gathered and were unanimous in their praise. Among them was Vice President Mike Pence.

"President Bush was a great leader who made a great difference in the life of this nation," he said. "But he was also just a good man, who was devoted to his wife, his family and his friends."

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., called Bush a hero and "a steady hand."

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump arrived about 8:30 p.m., long after the ceremony. They bowed their heads in silent meditation before the president saluted and the two left.

Amid the speeches and the pomp, George W. Bush, a former president and one of George H.W. Bush's sons, looked haggard with grief.

The late president's casket and his family had arrived at Joint Base Andrews on the jet that usually carries Trump. It landed at the base in suburban Maryland about 3:20 p.m.

The plane arrived under a blue sky and rolled down an empty runway. When it came to a stop, a blue truck bearing the presidential seal pulled up to remove the casket from the aircraft.

As an Air Force band played a hymn, and a blue Air Force flag flew at half-staff, the president's casket was placed in a black hearse, which left for the Capitol at 4 p.m.

Outside the base, bystanders with cellphones and cameras took their positions as police asked them to move back off the sidewalk, to keep the Secret Service from getting nervous.

At the Admiral Place apartment complex across the street, neighbors went to their balconies as the breeze blew briskly and the sun started sinking.

Nearby, Bryan Ingram waited.

Ingram, 35, has been here for the funerals of Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford, as well as Sen. Edward M. Kennedy.

"It's a final tribute," he said. "It's a way to pay my respects to a fallen statesman. . . . He brought dignity to the office of president. That's not something we have today."

Nearby, Deborah Gwaltney, a retiree and Upper Marlboro, Maryland, resident, sat in her car waiting for the motorcade. "They don't make men like that anymore," she said. "Men of his caliber."

Elsewhere outside the base, a woman held a sign echoing George H.W. Bush's last words to George W. Bush: "We love you too, Mr. President."

As the motorcade passed, she said quietly, "There he is."

Sherdette Daniels, 55, of Fort Washington, Maryland, saluted the motorcade as it left the base.

"Yes! Yes!" she said as former first lady Laura Bush and her daughter Jenna Bush Hager waved from one of the SUVs.

"This is awesome! That's it! Woo! Amen, amen," Daniels said. She then turned to a woman standing beside her who had her hand on her chest. The strangers hugged.

"I thought I was going to cry," the older woman said.

As the motorcade swept up Constitution Avenue, Sherry Smith, 45, a probation officer who lives in Dallas, stood on the sidewalk outside the Capitol and placed her hand across her heart.

"I don't know why I did it," Smith said seconds after the motorcade passed. "It was automatic. . . . It's a solemn feeling. . . . He was a war hero. He spent his whole life protecting our country."

On the west side of the Capitol, as the artillery salute boomed near the memorial to Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, 9-year-old Sebastian Cabrera Zuniga became alarmed.

"That's loud!" he shouted, his hands covering his ears. "Daddy, are they destroying anything?"

His father, Nick Pasqualicchio, 58, from New Jersey, told his son, "No, they just make a lot of noise."

Earlier in Houston, another band played the haunting "Eternal Father, Strong to Save," known as the Navy hymn, and smoke from an artillery salute blew across the airport tarmac as the late president began his final journey to Washington.

As wind blew the ceremonial flags and the bearers struggled to hold them upright, the body of the former president arrived at Houston's Ellington Field, where it was placed aboard the presidential jet for the trip to Joint Base Andrews.

The band played ruffles and flourishes and "Hail to the Chief," and George W. and Laura Bush led the family aboard the blue and white jumbo jet.

The public viewing in the Rotunda will continue Tuesday and will end at 7 a.m. Wednesday.

An hour before the 7:30 p.m. start of the public viewing Monday, a few hundred people already had lined up outside the Capitol.

"It's historical," said Terry Davidson, who works for the Small Business Administration. "We are from Texas. President Bush was from Texas. We thought it was a great opportunity to pay respects to a man we admired because of his patriotism, his courage and leadership."

Across the street, Alex Roberts, 22, a flight attendant, and his friend Rasheed Evelyn, 22, a student at George Washington University, looked up at the Capitol dome.

"It's really amazing to show this honor to a former American president," Roberts said. "It really is an end of an era for someone who held the office with dignity. My politics differ from him, but I respect his service to the country. He was an American icon."

The line moved steadily throughout the night, with a brief slowdown when Trump arrived.

Webb Jay IV, 37, of Destrehan, Louisiana, had arrived in the District earlier Monday for a conference and thought he would stop by to pay tribute to a former president. Jay, who described himself as a lifelong Republican, remarked on the unique opportunity.

"It's not very often you have the opportunity to pay your final respect to a president," said Jay, a real estate broker. "I looked at it as an opportunity to participate in something that very few individuals get to do."

The last president to lie in state in the Rotunda before Bush was Ford, from Dec. 30, 2006, to Jan. 2, 2007. The last public figure to lie in state there was the late senator John McCain on Aug. 31, according to the Senate Historical Office.

The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, originally set for Wednesday, was rescheduled to 5 p.m. Thursday.

A funeral is scheduled for 11 a.m. Wednesday at Washington National Cathedral, as the Bush family requested.

After a departure ceremony at 10 a.m. at the Capitol, the former president's body will be taken to the cathedral via a motorcade that will move along streets including Constitution Avenue, Pennsylvania Avenue, Massachusetts Avenue and Wisconsin Avenue.

The state funeral - based on the burial rite in the Episcopal Church's Book of Common Prayer - will be led by the Rev. Michael Curry, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church, the cathedral said.

Also participating will be the Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, Episcopal Bishop of Washington; the Rev. Randy Hollerith, dean of Washington National Cathedral; and the Rev. Russell Levenson Jr., rector of St. Martin's Episcopal Church in Houston.

Bush is to be eulogized by his son George W. Bush, as well as former Canadian prime minister Brian Mulroney, former senator Alan Simpson and historian Jon Meacham, according to CNN.

The cathedral also hosted the state funerals of Ford in 2007, Reagan in 2004 and Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1969.

The cathedral hosted the official burial service for Woodrow Wilson in 1924.

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The Washington Post's Mike DeBonis, Paul Kane, Jenna Portnoy, Faiz Siddiqui and Clarence Williams in Washington and Brittney Martin in Houston contributed to this report.

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Video: Host Libby Casey and Washington Post reporters provide live coverage and analysis as George H.W. Bush's casket journey's to the U.S. Capitol, where the public may pay their respects to the 41st president of the United States.(The Washington Post)

Embed code:Two of the Democratic Party's biggest wins last month occurred in Wisconsin and Michigan, where their candidates won gubernatorial elections, unseating a well-known incumbent in the former and flipping the seat in the latter.

But in both states, Republicans maintained control of both chambers of the legislature. So, in anticipation of having to work with a Democratic governor, state lawmakers are aiming to pass legislation that would dilute the executives' powers.

In Wisconsin, Gov.-elect Tony Evers, a Democrat, is fighting to beat back Republican attempts to weaken his authority, calling it "a repudiation of the last election."

"The last election changed the state in a way that apparently the legislature has decided to not accept," said Evers, who defeated Republican Gov. Scott Walker in November. Evers told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that "everything's on the table" in terms of attempting to block the GOP plan, including legal action.

The Republicans, who have enjoyed single-party rule in the state for close to a decade, are gearing up this week to pass a suite of changes in an "extraordinary session" - which is where the legislature calls itself back after the session ends - that would, among other things, limit early voting; move the Wisconsin 2020 presidential primary from March, when Democratic turnout will be high, to April (an apparent effort to boost the chances of a conservative judge in that April's state Supreme Court election); restrict the governor's ability to make certain appointments; and otherwise hand more power to the state legislature.

In Michigan, where Democrats last month won the governor's mansion as well as the races for attorney general and secretary of state, Republican lawmakers last week introduced measures that would water down the authority of the individuals in those positions on campaign finance oversight and other legal matters.

A spokeswoman for the incoming secretary of state decried the move as "shameful," the Detroit Free Press reported.

The moves in both states have drawn comparisons to Republican efforts in North Carolina in 2016, when lawmakers pushed through legislation limiting the authority of Roy Cooper, the state's Democratic governor, after he defeated incumbent Gov. Pat McCrory, a Republican.

Former attorney general Eric Holder criticized the latest Republican-led efforts in a Sunday tweet.

Now that a Democrat is in the governor's mansion, some Republicans argue that maybe Walker had too much power and that to balance it out, power should be redistributed to the representative body.

"Wisconsin law, written by the Legislature and signed into law by a governor, should not be erased by the potential political maneuvering of the executive branch," said GOP Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos in a statement.

Democrats and left-wing activists view it as a blatant power grab and decry the speed at which Republicans are trying to force these measures through. The GOP state lawmakers unveiled their bills on Friday night, are holding a hearing Monday, and plan to vote on them Tuesday.

"It is clearly partisan, and it's motivated by results of the election. It's a sore loser session," Mike Brown, deputy director of the liberal advocacy group, One Wisconsin Now, told The Post. "None of these bills were introduced before the election. They didn't consider them during regular session. There's no way the GOP would have come back in to limit the power of the governor of their own party."

Because this is all happening at lightening speed, grass-roots activists have also had to organize fast. Protesters are descending on the capital, and Brown said the Wisconsin legislature's hotline crashed because of the volume of calls.Daniel Goodin, M.D., and Melissa Weckesser, M.D., both physicians at MidMichigan Health Park - Gladwin, will co-chair MidMichigan Medical Center - Gladwin's Love Light Trees program. Contributions to the MidMichigan Health Foundation from this event will support equipment needs and patient enhancements.

Goodin has been practicing family medicine since 2014. A graduate from the Indiana University School of Medicine, Goodin is enjoying serving patients in the Gladwin community and sees the Love Light Trees program as another special way of helping patients.Of the more than 8,000 bills set to expire at the close of the 100th General Assembly, more than half will die in House Speaker Michael Madigans Rules Committee.

The 100th General Assembly has two more days of lame-duck session in 2019 before the next class is seated. In the past two years, lawmakers in the House and Senate filed more than 9,300 bills. They passed nearly 1,300 bills.

Of the 9,300 bills filed, nearly 5,400 are set to expire in the Rules Committee. Madigan is expected to continue in as House Speaker next year. The position affords him broad powers to control which bills advance, who votes on them and when they are called for a vote.

Outgoing Republican state Rep. Jeanne Ives, R-Wheaton, said lawmakers passed many bills but failed to address the big stuff that needs to be accomplished in the state of Illinois.

Look we still have a budget thats bigger by $3 billion than when I came, Ives said. We have a pension debt that is over $30 billion more than when I entered 6 years ago.

State Rep. Robert Martwick, D-Chicago, said there were some major accomplishments. One was ending the historic 30-month long budget impasse by bringing several Republicans to join Democrats in overriding the governors veto of the budget and an income tax increase in 2017.

During that budget impasse we were denying critical services to our most vulnerable seniors, people living with disabilities, people with addiction problems, people with autism and epilepsy, Martwick said.

Ives said that $5 billion income tax increase failed to address the states structural problems, including its backlog of bills and pension liabilities.

From sales taxes to property taxes to income taxes, when you look at it in totality we have the highest tax burden for any individual across the United States, Ives said.

Martwick also heralded the bipartisan efforts to change how the state funds K-12 schools.

Ives said that too was a failure because it took from the suburbs their share of state money and bails out Chicago and quite frankly even downstate areas where the need was not as great as some made it out to be.

Ives, who wont be part of the 101st General Assembly because she was ineligible to run again for the statehouse because she ran in the GOP primary against Gov. Bruce Rauner, also criticized the states billion dollar bailout of Exelon, and the lack of bringing about substantive and meaningful business reform.

Martwick, D-Chicago, will be in the next General Assembly. He said he hopes they address two issues that he said go hand-in-hand.

We need to address our pension debts, and how we are going to manage that going forward and we need to address our high taxes here in the state of Illinois, Martwick said.

Martwick has been pushing for a progressive income tax with rates based on how much you make. That idea is supported by the incoming Democratic governor J.B. Pritzker who campaigned on a progressive tax but never did or has since election revealed any rate structure.

Even if the supermajority Democrats agree to put the question to voters, it would still require 60 percent of a statewide ballot initiative to change the state constitutions flat tax to a progressive structure, and that wouldnt be possible until the 2020 general election.

Lawmakers will be back for two days of lame-duck session Jan. 7 and 8 just before the 101st General Assembly will be seated to begin the next two years of legislating with Democratic supermajorities and a Democrat in the governors office.In anticipation of the Mueller report, political commentators and historians have drawn numerous parallels with Watergate and the impeachment proceedings against President Richard M. Nixon. A month after Nixon's resignation in August 1974, President Gerald R. Ford pardoned him. But history has forgotten the only other man granted a presidential pardon for his role in the Watergate crimes, and why the pardon was given.

Watergate burglar Rolando Eugenio Martinez was a veteran of more than 300 infiltration missions into Cuba for the CIA during the secret war on Fidel Castro in the early 1960s. He was also the only Watergate burglar still on the agency's payroll at the time of the break-in.

He was recruited for the Watergate operation by E. Howard Hunt, the former CIA liaison to the Cuban "government in exile" in Miami before the Bay of Pigs invasion. By the summer of 1971, Hunt had retired from the agency and taken up a new job as a security consultant for the Nixon White House.

Incensed by the publication of the Pentagon Papers, Nixon ordered a smear campaign against whistleblower Daniel Ellsberg, so Hunt recruited Martinez and two other Cubans to break into the office of Ellsberg's psychiatrist in Beverly Hills, California. Their goal? To find embarrassing secrets that could destroy Ellsberg's reputation in the press. Hunt subsequently employed an expanded Cuban team to break into the Watergate offices of the Democratic National Committee in May and June 1972.

Amid rumors that Democratic presidential candidate George McGovern had financial support from Cuba, Hunt sent Martinez into DNC headquarters to find and photograph documentary evidence of collusion between Democrats and Castro. Martinez believed the Ellsberg and Watergate break-ins were "national security" operations being run through Hunt at the White House with the blessing of the CIA. After all, the agency was still paying Martinez a retainer of a hundred dollars a month to report on Cubans of intelligence interest arriving in Miami, and he had repeatedly told his case officer about his contact with Hunt.

After serving 15 months in jail for his part in the break-in, Martinez returned to Miami on parole in 1974 and was warned by former CIA colleagues that Cuban intelligence might try to recruit him. Three years later, in May 1977, the Cuban pitch came. Thinking Martinez was embittered by his Watergate experience, the Cuban intelligence service (Direccion General de Inteligencia - DGI) requested a meeting in Kingston, Jamaica.

Martinez, however, remained loyal to the U.S. government and reported the approach to the CIA through agency veteran Felix Rodriguez. He was told to contact the FBI, who approved a double-agent mission to infiltrate Cuban intelligence. After meetings in Mexico and Jamaica, Martinez sailed to Cuba on Castro's Bluebird yacht and met Interior Minister Jose Abrantes. He was debriefed for several days in Havana and given a sum of money. According to Rodriguez, the Cubans wanted Martinez to use his heroic status in the Cuban exile community in Miami to support the joint efforts of Cuban exile banker Bernardo Benes and the new Carter administration to reestablish diplomatic relations with Cuba.

Instead, Martinez shared the Cuban plans with the FBI, securing himself a presidential pardon from Ronald Reagan in 1983. Reagan denied similar requests from Hunt and Nixon's deputy campaign chief, Jeb Magruder, causing many to suspect that Martinez's pardon was a political move intended to strengthen Reagan's popularity with Cuban voters in Miami ahead of his 1984 reelection campaign.

Only those closest to Martinez in intelligence circles knew the role his secret mission to Cuba had played in Reagan's decision to grant clemency. And Martinez's mission had an intriguing subplot that threatened the CIA's very existence at the time. The agency initially suspected that the Cuban pitch to Martinez was part of a broader propaganda campaign to implicate the CIA in the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and further damage its morale and reputation after a series of scandals.

Kennedy had initiated his own back-channel diplomacy with Castro in the final months of his life, and his death was being reinvestigated by the House Select Committee on Assassinations at the time of the Cuban approach to Martinez. One of the committee's key witnesses was Cuban exile leader Antonio Veciana, who told investigators that he and his CIA case officer, Maurice Bishop, had met Lee Harvey Oswald in Dallas two months before the Kennedy assassination.

In April 1977, one month before approaching Martinez, Cuban intelligence had met another FBI double agent in Mexico City: Felix Zabala Mas, Veciana's close friend and business partner. Together, the Cuban exiles had previously mounted two unsuccessful assassination attempts against Castro - with a bazooka in Havana in 1961 and with a gun hidden in a camera in Chile 10 years later. Cuban intelligence thought they had "turned" Zabala Mas against his friend. They hoped that their former enemy could give them the inside track on Veciana's congressional testimony, Castro assassination plots and current anti-Castro terrorist activity.

Declassified FBI and CIA documents reveal, however, that the Cubans had been deceived by an elaborate plot, designed by Veciana to sabotage President Jimmy Carter's push to restore relations with Cuba. Veciana scripted Zabala's approach to Cuban intelligence and what he divulged in subsequent meetings, aiming to incite Castro to publicly rail against the CIA assassination plots, damage relations with the United States and establish Veciana's name as a CIA agent. Castro refused to take the bait, however, and while efforts at detente floundered in 1977, Castro lived to see the restoration of diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba in 2015.

Veciana survived a Cuban assassination attempt in 1979, and both he and Martinez lived to see the death of Castro. Martinez is now 96 and rues that his covert operations failed to free Cuba and resulted in the "loss of two presidents" - the assassination of Kennedy, which he believes was an act of revenge by Castro, and the resignation of Nixon.

A genial character, Martinez refuses to discuss anything that didn't "come out" during his CIA-approved Watergate testimony, like the key to a DNC secretary's desk drawer that he tried to hide from arresting officers in the early hours of June 17, 1972. When I asked him recently why he had the key that night, he told me with a chuckle, "I don't remember and I don't want to remember. I want to be consistent with what I said before. I don't want it to come out, I'm sorry." His undiminished loyalty to the intelligence community has repaid the trust shown in him by Reagan 35 years ago. The file detailing who recommended his pardon remains classified, and beyond what he told Watergate prosecutors, his secrets remain sealed.

- O'Sullivan is a documentary filmmaker, senior lecturer in filmmaking at Kingston University, London and author of the new book, "Dirty Tricks: Nixon, Watergate and the CIA."WASHINGTON - The chorus of medical professionals weighing in on the gun debate grows louder, House Democrats are vowing to push gun legislation and funding for research with their new majority in the next Congress.

After an Oct. 27 shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue, a Nov. 7 shooting in a country-music bar in Thousand Oaks, California, and then another at a hospital in Chicago two weeks ago, the medical community took to social media to express outrage, creating hashtags and Twitter accounts dedicated to speaking out about gun violence and calling for movement on gun policies. Now, Democrats in Washington seem to be responding.

Rep. Robin Kelly, D-Ill., vice chair of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, told me in an interview that she's spoken about gun policies with House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., who won her party's nomination last week to serve as speaker in the next Congress.

"From listening to and speaking with leader Pelosi . . . gun violence prevention strategies and bills will be on the list of priorities," Kelly said.

The Illinois Democrat held a news conference last week calling for bipartisan solutions to gun violence, alongside Reps. Mike Thompson, D-Calif., Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., and Frank Pallone Jr., D-N.J.; incoming Democrat from Florida Debbie Mucarsel-Powell; and several medical professionals. The group called for funding for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to research gun violence and for federal legislation on universal background checks, among other ideas.

During the news conference, Pallone, the likely next chairman of Energy and Commerce Committee, said he plans to authorize legislation to fund gun violence research.

"I'm telling you today . . . we on Energy and Commerce Committee, we will make it our business when we take office after January 3 that we're going to authorize legislation that we have not been able to move because of Republicans," he said. "That we'll make sure that kind of funding is available through the CDC."

Pallone also suggested the committee could take up one of the bills Kelly has introduced to mandate that the U.S. surgeon general submit an annual report to Congress on the effects of gun violence on public health.

During the news conference, Kelly lamented the lack of progress thus far on gun-related legislation and pointed to the GOP as the reason for any stall. "Despite the fact that we've had a mass shooting nearly every day in 2018, this Republican-controlled Congress has done nothing for the last eight years to prevent gun violence," she said.

She applauded the doctors and nurses who have been speaking out on this issue. "They have seen things that would make most of us sick," Kelly said. "I could not be prouder to welcome them to Capitol Hill because they want to be part of the solution. They, like House Democrats and many of my Republican colleagues, want to stop the violence with commonsense, bipartisan solutions."

At last week's news conference, the doctors in the room chimed in calling for more research and for effective gun policies, telling story after story of toddlers who were accidentally shot and killed by family members, of domestic violence that leads to gun violence, and of their own experiences in trauma and operating rooms. One surgeon, Joseph Sakran, shared the details of his own near-death experience after being shot in the neck at age 17.

They stood behind a lectern with a sign that read "This is our lane," a phrase that has been repeated by doctors and nurses on social media in recent weeks. Earlier this month, the National Rifle Association tweeted telling doctors who tried to speak out about gun policies to "stay in their lane."

But the medical community has responded in kind. One forensic pathologist tweeted that the issue "isn't just my lane. It's my [expletive] highway."

Sakran, a trauma surgeon at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, launched a recent Twitter account @ThisIsOurLane to share the perspective of doctors who encounter gun violence on a daily basis.

"This is really in my mind a movement of not just one individual but the entire medical community saying enough is enough," Sakran told me.

At its interim meeting in November, delegates from the American Medical Association adopted a policy calling for stronger background checks at the state level.

Specifically, the policy seeks to "encourage the enactment of state laws requiring the reporting of all classes of prohibited individuals, as defined by state and federal law, to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System" and "support federal funding to provide grants to states to improve NICS reporting."

"We see this as an epidemic and public health crisis and we think intervening as early as possible is smarter than just building more intensive care units for people who are either killed or damaged and badly hurt by theviolence," AMA President Barbara McAneny said in an interview. "We need to increase firearm background checks . . . so we know if there are people who have a history of violent crimes, if they're at risk of hurting someone else or themselves, we can look at all those factors."

Recent research points to why what the AMA is calling for may be needed. The initial findings from a comprehensive survey of firearms and violence conducted by the University of California at Davis Violence Prevention Research Program found nearly 1 in 5 people who purchased a recent firearm in California reported they did not undergo a background check.

Nicole Kravitz-Wirtz, a researcher who led the survey, told me this was an unexpected finding because the state has mandated background checks for nearly all firearm purchases since 1991. She said the findings suggest "we have some more digging in terms of research to do to figure out what's going on here, so we can actually make more informed claims about how to improve policy."

"We know at the individual level that comprehensive background check policies work, that they prevent future firearm violence at this level," she said.

Garen Wintemute, director of the Violence Prevention Research Program, said that background checks are meant to prohibit gun purchases by those with criminal convictions, those with histories of domestic violence or who have restraining orders against them, or people with mental-health concerns who have been involuntarily committed to treatment.

He added the "background check is really only as good as the data it's run on. We know that there is massive underreporting, but we don't always have the estimates of how massive the underreporting problem is."

Wintemute pointed to another recent study from UC Davis that found in the ten years following the implementation of California's law, there were no changes in the rate of firearm or nonfirearm homicides -- and while there was a decrease in firearm-related suicide rates, the same decrease was seen in nonfirearm-related suicides.

He said more research needs to be done. "A study like this one in California is going to be interpreted [as] background checks are useless, and that's not what we're saying," he said. "What we're learning is this policy, which makes intuitive sense, is not well implemented."

He pointed to the new AMA policy as a productive step. "What the AMA is endorsing is a continued effort to improve the quality and completeness of reporting so that the background checks will be run on accurate data and accomplish its purpose."Americans are so accustomed to President Donald Trump upsetting the apple cart on the world stage that it can now seem surprising when a conference or summit goes smoothly.

That's what happened this weekend in Buenos Aires, Argentina where Trump attended the annual Group of 20 summit of industrial nations. He presided over the signing of a new trade pact with Canada and Mexico and agreed to calm his burgeoning trade war with China. He offered pleasantries to world leaders he had previously attacked, shied away from headline-grabbing photo ops with controversial autocrats and signed onto the summit's pro forma communique - something he conspicuously rejected at the G-7 summit earlier this year.

The storm looming over the White House - the special counsel investigation into the Trump camp's alleged dealings with the Kremlin seems to be picking up pace - may have contributed to Trump's relative meekness. So, too, may the concerted efforts of his Argentine hosts and other world powers to avert the discord of previous summits.

Negotiations over the communique saw American allies try to win over Trump: Condemnation of "protectionism" was left out of the document, and the United States was allowed to carve out a separate position on climate change, given Trump's rejection of the Paris accords. Still, the White House's assent in Argentina was cast as a boon for the liberal order Trump has so often pilloried.

"The USA has approved a clear text on multilateralism that complies with international rules," said French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday. "They've approved a clear text on trade that has been discussed at length and is very clear on the reforms. They've approved a common text on energy matters, and this morning President Trump took the floor in the plenary session to say that even though he did not follow the Paris Accords he very much wanted to be involved in climate matters."

Some analysts were less optimistic, viewing the muddled compromise as a sign of how Trump has made institutions like the G-20 all the more feeble. "The worry was that things could unravel, so there was a retraction of ambition from the other democratic leaders," Thomas Wright of the Brookings Institution told The Post. "They are worried about him creating a fuss over attempts to forge cooperation, which means these summits now are just gatherings of the leaders without a real agenda. That's the function of Trump."

The weekend's single most important event was a lengthy Saturday dinner between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. It ended with a modest compromise: Trump agreed to at least delay a new round of tariffs on Chinese goods in return for additional Chinese purchases of American farm, energy and industrial goods. China's concession was a White House attempt to chip away at Trump's perennial gripe, the bilateral trade deficit with China.

But there's little reason to think future talks will yield much progress on some of the thorniest sticking points between the two countries, including China's practice of forced technology transfers from U.S. companies.

"The temporary cease-fire in the U.S.-China trade war left the toughest issues to future bargaining sessions, which will attempt to succeed where earlier efforts failed - and under an ambitious 90-day deadline," the Washington Post reported. "If the latest effort encounters the same roadblocks, Trump said he will proceed with his previous plan to raise tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese products to 25 percent from 10 percent, which was to have taken effect on Jan. 1.

The prospect of renewed trade hostilities by spring is all too real. The problem for Trump is that the United States is starting to experience the pain of his protectionist politics. "Across the country, thousands of small and medium-size businesses, farmers and retailers are also reportedly suffering financial losses as a result of higher prices for imported materials and goods and the ensuing foreign retaliatory measures," noted an editorial in the Guardian.

The tensions are made all the more stark by the personal nature of the clash between Trump and Xi. "Both men have cast themselves as 'maximum leaders,' strong men defending the interests and honor of their nations," said Aaron Friedberg, a former foreign policy adviser to former vice president Richard Cheney, to Lynch. "Neither wants to appear weak, which would seem to narrow the scope for compromise, but neither wants to be blamed for a complete breakdown in relations."

But when faced with the presence of another "maximum leader" - Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman - Trump demurred. The crown prince is currently reviled in the court of international public opinion for his alleged role in ordering the assassination of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. At the G-20, he was greeted with smiles and handshakes by some leaders, and stern lectures from others.

In neither instance was Trump at the head of the pack. In Washington, he has tried to shield Mohammed from accusations of direct complicity in Khashoggi's murder and called on the preservation of U.S.-Saudi ties. But the G-20 summit exposed the limits of the president's influence.

"His reputation has obviously been seriously damaged," said Jose Miguel Vivanco, the executive director of Human Rights Watch's Americas Division, of the Saudi crown prince. "I think he was convinced that he could walk on water and pay no cost. . . . But this case will follow him every time he leaves Saudi Arabia, probably for the rest of his life."

On Sunday, a subdued Trump returned to Washington. While there was little rancor left in his wake, there was also little in the way of substance. "A president who prides himself on being the ultimate disrupter on the global stage," noted my colleagues, "instead played the part of reluctant diplomat here in Argentina, at the risk of making himself something of a non-factor." Given the precedents Trump himself has set, his critics may find that a welcome respite.Ignore the incendiary rhetoric coming out of Washington D.C., the new political climate south of the border has never been more favorable, especially toward green energy providers. And the U.S., Mexico and ultimately Texas, have a lot to gain through greater and mutually-beneficial collaboration.

As the largest producer of alternative energy in the United States, Texas is defying stereotypes. But we shouldnt stop there. The appetite for renewable energy in Mexico has never been stronger, putting anyone with expertise in wind and solar energy in a position to capitalize on the potential benefits of entering such a huge market.

The recent political elections in Mexico ushered in energy-focused leadership at the highest levels. On Saturday, both the new Mexican President, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, and the new Mayor of Mexico City, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, officially took office.

Both ran on platforms vowing to tackle Mexicos worsening environmental problems.

Mexico City is one of the most polluted urban centers on the planet. Each day its 21 million inhabitants battle with inadequate public transport, epic traffic jams, air pollution and frequent water shortages.

Many worry Lopez Obradors left-leaning rhetoric is likely to scare off foreign investment. But being able to provide more affordable energy to Mexicans will probably lessen any protectionist sentiment within his ruling coalition.

And its not just the new, more favorable political climate in Mexico that makes now a good time for green energy providers in the U.S. to enter the market. The law is on their side too. Efforts to reform the Mexican energy market have been ongoing since 2012, and many of the initiatives agreed upon six years ago are coming on line now.

The Market for Clean Energy Certificates initiative, for example, is a key tenet of a broader Mexican effort to provide more diverse energy sources. This state-led initiative created an open, competitive market for alternative energy. Private companies bid for market share, and whichever offers the most competitive rate is awarded a Clean Energy Certificate. The new system only became fully operational this year.

Authorities already aim to increase the amount of electricity generated from clean energy sources to 35 percent of total national output in five years and to 50 percent by 2050.

In Texas, the vast majority of alternative energy being generated comes from wind farms. In order for Mexico to achieve its own proposed targets for energy diversification, the country has three years to complete the same wind farm capacity that took Canada more than two decades to develop.

Texas and California have a great deal of experience in deploying solar systems on the micro scale that are efficient, cost-effective, and long-lasting. Any affordable solar power system that could be deployed into individual households  thereby affording Mexicans the ability to sell their surplus energy back to the grid  would be, to put it mildly, very popular.

Any collaboration, however, must be on equal terms. The new Mexican leadership may be more open to diversifying their energy portfolio but not at the expense of the people who elected them.

Successful collaboration between Mexico and the United States, and ultimately Texas, will hinge upon American companies not only hiring personnel locally but also training Mexicans to a level that furnishes the local community with the requisite expertise to take over operations at some point down the road. Given the existing political climate, U.S. companies should try to engage directly with the new Mexican leadership instead of using more conventional diplomatic channels. This is not simply an exercise in political expediency. American companies will need to gain the trust of their Mexican counterparts who have had ample reason to be skeptical of the motivations of U.S. enterprise in the past.

Entering the Mexican green energy market is not without challenges. Nothing worth doing is ever easy. However, the conditions have never been more favorable for greater energy-related cooperation, and managed carefully, it could be a win-win situation for both sides: something the U.S. and Mexico desperately need right now.

Carlos Torres-Verdin is a professor of petroleum and geosystems engineering in the Cockrell School of Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin.The San Antonio region has been awarded $61 million in Volkswagen settlement funds, which can be used to improve air quality here.

The funds are part of a larger $209 million settlement with Volkswagen, which equipped vehicles with emission defeat devices to cheat emissions tests. In the United States, about 590,000 vehicles had such software.

The decision to provide so much funding to the San Antonio region was a point of contention as the Texas Department of Environmental Quality drafted a plan to allot these funds across the state. Some had argued that other areas had more Volkswagen vehicles equipped with emission defeat devices than the San Antonio region, meaning air quality in other regions suffered more from the scandal.

But state officials correctly viewed San Antonio as the top priority because of our recent failure to meet federal ozone standards. The region barely missed the mark, and the thinking from state officials is these funds could go a long way toward improving air quality here and possibly achieve attainment, which would be an economic and health lift.

That designation will delay federally funded transportation projects, which will undergo additional review. And it could create obstacles for business expansion here through delayed air permits. Beyond this, the American Thoracic Society has estimated ozone kills 52 people per year in San Antonio. Along these lines, it also contributes to hospitalizations and missed work and school days.

Its unclear how San Antonio officials might use these funds. In early October, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff and San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg sent a letter to the TCEQ advocating the funds be applied to ConnectSA, the mayors forthcoming transit plan. Transit has to be the policy priority for this fast-growing region because an effective plan would reduce congestion, improve air quality and better connect one of the most economically segregated cities in the country.

But its not clear if these funds can be applied to such a transit plan. The states final plan is heavy on replacing freight trucks, buses and construction equipment. Its relatively silent on other forms of air quality mitigation, simply saying there may be options not listed.

Another possibility, then, could be using the funds to replace older school buses with ones that run on compressed natural gas. This would have tremendous benefits for air quality in San Antonio.

At any rate, the political temptation might be to spread these funds thin to meet a variety of needs. Doing so might serve political purposes, but it would undermine the point of the settlement, which is to improve San Antonios air quality. On this point  whether its new buses or supporting a transit plan  the region should be focused and bold.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 3)  President Rodrigo Duterte is backing members of the police who arrested former Representative Satur Ocampo.

Speaking to media after an event in Malacanang on Monday, the President said, "The police did the right thing."

He added Ocampo's intentions may have been good, "but there is the intent which is criminal in bringing out and transferring children from one area to another, especially using them... eventually using them in their struggle."

Duterte added he would defend his soldiers and his policemen "for sure because I think they are right."

Ocampo, ACT Teachers Partylist Representative France Castro, and 16 others were charged for illegally holding minors and transporting 14 children from Talaingod, Davao del Norte to a unknown location.

The police report said Ocampo, Castro and 16 others violated Republic Act 9208 or the "Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003," and Republic Act 7610 or the "Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act."

Ocampo, however, found an ally in Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro "Teddy Boy" Locsin Jr. who called the charges "idiotic."

"Human trafficking? Bullsh*t. I won't even bother to get the other side. I know Satur. We protected him in our Congress against warrants of arrest," Locsin said in a tweet.

Ocampo, along with his fellow accused were able to post bail over the weekend, saying there was no kidnapping, trafficking or abuse. They were only rescuing the children from alleged military harassment.

However, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said five parents raised complaints to the police and are planning to file a kidnapping case against the accused.

"A kidnapping case was filed against them pero hindi tinanggap ng piskalya pero hindi dinismiss [the fiscal did not accept it but they did not dismiss it] So I just talked with the regional director this morning and they will be refiling the case because there are five parents who signed their affidavits and are planning to file a case of kidnapping laban dito kina [against] Satur Ocampo," PNP Chief Dir. Gen. Oscar Albayalde told the press on Monday.Lakeland Dairies and Macra na Feirme have launched a new Land Mobility Programme.

The innovative new initiative will help all types of farmers, farm families, new entrants and land owners to consider their options for collaborative arrangements leading to better use of land resources for the mutual benefit of farmers and landowners.

The programme will work to facilitate workable arrangements throughout the Lakeland Dairies catchment area.

The Land Mobility Programme is a confidential and expert service designed to support the sustainable expansion of dairy farming throughout the Lakeland operating region, where the majority of dairy farmers see opportunities for further growth in the years ahead.

The programme will also provide advice and assistance to farmers who may be thinking of adjusting their workload, stepping back or making succession arrangements on their farms while also seeking to secure their income for the future.

Macra na Feirme will coordinate the new service with ongoing support from Lakeland Dairies and the FBD Trust. It will be managed on the ground by Patrick Brady who has been appointed as the Programme Co-ordinator in the Lakeland Dairies catchment area.

Brady has significant farming and business experience. He holds an Agricultural Science Degree from UCD, is a dairy farmer himself and has significant experience with Teagasc. As Programme Co-ordinator, he can be contacted at 087 1628839.

The Land Mobility Service has been successfully piloted over the past 4 years in Ireland, supporting the establishment of over 400 collaborative arrangements between farmers and covering some 35,000 acres of land.

Pictured above (left to right) Alf McGlew, Dairy Farmer; Austin Finn, Land Mobility Programme Manager; Alo Duffy, Chairman Lakeland Dairies; Patrick Brady, Land Mobility Programme Advisor for the LakelandDairies catchment area; Andrew Purcell, Dairy Farmer and Eamon Duignan, Member Relations Manager, Lakeland Dairies.The inaugural Albert Reynolds Memorial Lecture will be delivered by former British Prime Minister, Sir John Major, on Monday, December 10 at 5.30pm in Backstage Theatre, Longford and details of how to apply for tickets for the prestigious event have been released.

A limited number of seats will be available to the public in the main auditorium.

Additional seating will be provided in the Backstage Canal Studio with live streaming and a limited number of seats will be available to the public to view the live streaming.

If you are interested in attending the Albert Reynolds Memorial Lecture, please email events@longfordcoco.ie by Tuesday, December 4 at the latest.

As it is anticipated that this event will be over-subscribed, Longford County Council will allocate tickets and seats. Those who can be accommodated at the event will be notified by email.

Sinead Hussey, multimedia journalist from RTE, will be MC for the event.

Longford County Council, in consultation with the Reynolds family, agreed that a fitting way of remembering Albert's legacy would be by way of an Annual Memorial Lecture on the broad themes of peace, reconciliation and citizenship.

It is appropriate that the lecture is taking place on December 10, in the week of the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Downing Street Declaration.North Longford Ladybirds are among the first members of Irish Girl Guides (IGG) to complete the organisations brand new STEM badge, which was launched during Science Week.

The badge aims to encourage Ladybirds (IGG members aged five to seven) to develop an interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.

To earn the badge, the girls have to complete a series of science experiments and engineering projects, like building towers, making telephones using string and using magnets.

By taking part in these fun activities, the girls learn about balance, stability and planning, how sound travels and magnetism among other skills.

It is hoped that doing this will spark an interest in STEM subjects that they will pursue inside and outside of school.

Orla Morris, a leader with North Longford Ladybirds, which meets in Drumlish said the badge's importance could not be underestimated.

The STEM badge is a unique opportunity to cover a wide range of topics in a fun, creative and informative way. Doing the STEM activities is a great excuse for girls to get messy with slime or oobleck, investigate with magnets and slopes, experiment with water and food colouring, play with numbers and stack or build with anything.

There was great excitement in the air as they set about the tasks, fascination as girls made water walk from one cup into another and infectious laughter as they watched an egg being sucked into a jar.

They made cans roll using static electricity, built towers and learned how cups can support their weight. This is the most fun badge we have ever worked on because the girls were so enthusiastic and the possibilities were endless.

IGG Programme and Training Commissioner Jenny Gannon said: We are delighted to launch our new STEM badge for Ladybirds during Science Week. It complements the Science Investigator and Engineering badges we already have for Brownies (aged seven to 10) and Guides (aged 10-14).The new Dacia Duster is a surprise, and a pleasant one at that.

Dacia, despite being a Johnny Come Lately to the Irish market, is actually quite an old brand from Romania and (fun fact) is Romanias largest exporter.

The company was taken over by Renault several decades ago, even while the Iron Curtain still stood.

Initially that relationship involved making Renaults under license and under the Dacia badge, but then Dacia has also struck out on its own design-wise.

On the Irish market, Dacia is a value offering, which is marketing speak for cheap.

I never drove the original Dacia, and had allowed my lazy brain to assume that I knew what cheap would translate into.

On the outside there are subtle and telling differences. It is longer and wider, and some subtle changes make it, overall, look more rugged.

Inside is where I found myself thinking that the deceptively simplistic approach to this machine was its genius.

Its downright dinky. While it may be more rugged and sporty on the outside, its quite refined on the inside.

The appearance of simplicity can be a virtue but it is an achievement you have to work very hard at and Dacia have managed it.

I particularly loved the way much of the digital trickery (of which there is much) required an analogue handle. And lovely, easy to find and use tactile handles.

I am happy to say that of all the cars Ive driven, theyve definitely done controls better than any other brand.

The thing to remember is that Dacia is linked to both Renault and Nissan, who have both, in their own way, perfected the art of the making mass market cars, such as the Qasqai and the Kadjar. It has much in common with them (such as the 1.5 diesel engine with 115bhp) although its smaller than both.

The engine will never win awards for speed, but thats irrelevant. This was never intended for the performance or sporty market, although it is available in four wheel drive.

That being said, the cabin is so quiet, I mistakenly thought the engine was a petrol.

The new Dacia has all the usual stuff you get these days, like Bluetooth link to your phone, reversing cameras and sensors etc etc.

Its comfortable for the driver and rear passengers of regular size, with an adequate boot.

It also has the Blindspot Warning Notification light that its stablemates in Nissan and Renault pioneered.

At 24,000 this is likely to be attractive, and the lads in Mallon Motors tell me that although they expected great interest in the new model, theyre blown away by the interest.

Expect to see many more on Irish roads in the coming years.Nature & Weather, Local News, Business & Finance, Press Releases, Politics

By Long Island News & PR Published: December 03 2018

Extends Property Tax Exemptions for Next 10 Years on Buildings and Facilities Critical to Farming and Horticulture.

New York, NY - December 3, 2018 - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the extension of the state's Real Property Tax Law exemption on farm buildings, which will provide continued tax relief for New York farmers and growers. The Real Property Tax Law exempts agricultural producers from paying real property tax on buildings that are essential to the production of agricultural or horticultural products, such as temporary greenhouses, dairy barns and exercise arenas for horse-boarding operations.

"New York's agricultural industry is a major sector of our economy, and it's critical that we continue to support local farmers and growers," Governor Cuomo said. "This tax exemption will help New York's hard-working agricultural producers invest in their farms and grow their businesses, and as a result increase competitiveness and productivity for years to come."

"Agriculture is an essential part of New York's economy, and we are working to remove barriers to growth for farmers across the state," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "This new law lowers the property tax burden on New York farms, helping them to stay competitive in the global economy."

The Real Property Tax Law exemption was extended for the next 10 years and applies to newly constructed and re-constructed agricultural buildings through January 1, 2029. Since it was last renewed in 2008, the exemption for farm structures is estimated to have saved New York farmers more than $112.8 million. The exemption has helped support the growth of New York's agricultural industry by allowing farmers and growers to use the money saved to invest in their operations, purchase new equipment and modernize facilities, which increases the farms' competitiveness and profitability.

Agricultural buildings have been exempt from state taxation for decades, but the law granting the exemption was set to expire on New Year's Day 2019. The new law, sponsored by Assemblyman Bill Magee and Senator Patty Ritchie, amends New York State's Real Property Tax Law to extend the tax break and ensure it will remain in effect for the next decade.

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, "We thank Governor Cuomo for signing this bill into law and we thank the State Legislature for passing this legislation. It extends a crucial tax break to our farmers and growers, who have historically relied on the exemption to improve operations, expand businesses and offset other expenses."

Acting Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Nonie Manion said, "Thanks to the extension of this property tax exemption, New York State farmers can now continue to receive this beneficial tax break. I applaud Governor Cuomo and the State Legislature for continuing to allow this valuable benefit."

Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Patty Ritchie said, "Our state's farmers work hard every day to produce world-class products that are enjoyed by their fellow New Yorkers, but sometimes they see minimal profit generated and, at times, can even experience losses, due to things like infrastructure costs. This vital legislation, which I was proud to sponsor, will deliver a property tax exemption for structures that play a key role to strengthen their bottom lines, which in turn will help bolster our state's agriculture industry for years to come."

Assembly Agriculture Committee Chair Bill Magee said, "This property tax exemption law is extremely helpful to our farmers who rely on it to lower production costs. That, in turn, helps them to stay in business by keeping their farms in operation, maintaining our state's open spaces, and growing food for New Yorkers."

New York Farm Bureau President David Fisher said, "This law, which keeps new farm buildings off the tax rolls for 10 years, is essential to encourage new farm investment, and it will make it more economical to grow family farm businesses. The tax savings is especially important in today's tough agricultural economy."

The law prohibits tax increases based on the value of construction or improvement of structures that are used for essential agricultural operations. That includes the cultivation, harvest and storage of commodities; the feeding, breeding and management of livestock; and housing for farm employees. Housing for immediate family members is not covered by the exemption unless the family members are non-owners and critical to the commercial operation of the farm.Local News, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases

By Long Island News & PR Published: December 03 2018

Veteran was ex-POW, Charter Member of Veterans Advisory Board.

Francis Fanzilli speaks at street dedication ceremony for his grandfather, SSgt. Michael J. Colamonico, USAF, as Town and County officials, veterans groups, family and friends look on.

Huntington Station, NY - December 3, 2018 - Supervisor Chad A. Lupinacci, Councilman Mark Cuthbertson, Highway Superintendent Kevin S. Orelli, Suffolk County Legislators Dr. William Spencer and Tom Donnelly, Veterans Advisory Board members, local veterans groups, family and friends gathered Saturday, November 24, on Thanksgiving weekend for a ceremony dedicating McKay Road as SSgt. USAF Michael J. Colamonico Way.

Staff Sergeant Michael J. Colamonico, U.S. Air Force, was involved with many major veterans projects including an event on the Intrepid where he filled the ship with hundreds of World War II veterans who were honored with medals they never received after the war. He mentored young veterans who needed guidance and advice and had a close relationship with the VA Hospital in Northport , said Supervisor Chad A. Lupinacci. Mr. Colamonico lived here on McKay Road in Huntington Station for all his married life with his wife Lorraine until he passed away a few years ago. To the Colamonico family, the Town and the country are grateful to your husband, father and grandfather for his service to this nation  in uniform and in his passionate advocacy for active military and veterans.

You would have never known all the trauma and sacrifice that SSGT USAF Michael Colamonico went through as a prisoner of war. He always had a smile on his face and a pleasant word for everyone in his life, I am fortunate to have known him, said Councilman Mark Cuthbertson.

In attendance for the ceremony included former Town Supervisor Toni Rettaliata-Tepe, who created the Towns Veterans Advisory Board; members of the Greenlawn American Legion #1244 and the Greenlawn American Legion #1244 Riders; Northport American Legion #694; Huntington American Legion #360; Elwood/Commack VFW #9263; Nathan Hale VFW #1469; Combat Infantrymens Association; Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

SSgt. Michael J. Colamonico's grandchildren recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Linda Catania, a good friend to the Town and the Veterans Advisory Board, performed the National Anthem.

Legislator Dr. William Spencer, Captain Michelle Mudge, U.S. Army Aviation Pilot, Military Intelligence Battalion, also delivered remarks, along with SSgt. Colamonico's grandson, Francis Fanzilli, and son, Michael Colamonico.

Father Michael Bissex of St. Patrick's Church in Huntington also spoke and performed a blessing of the street sign bearing SSgt. Colamonicos name before the unveiling.

Mrs. Lorraine Colamonico, SSgt. Colamonico's widow, was asked by Supervisor Lupinacci to do the honors of the unveiling surrounded by family, friends and elected officials.

Staff Sergeant Michael J. Colamonico served his country in the United States Air Force during World War II, and at the end of a 13-hour bombing run, a German Messerschmidt fighter plane shot down the B-17 bomber on which he was a top turret gunner, over France on December 31st, 1943. SSgt. Colamonico was held prisoner at the infamous Stalag 17 in Austria where he spent 17 months in captivity, and was finally liberated on May 3rd, 1945, in Braunau, Germany.

Colamonico dedicated his life to his family and veterans affairs issues as an advocate for active military and veterans. Colamonico was an original member of the Huntington Veterans Advisory Board, whose current members requested the street be dedicated in his name.Local News, Business & Finance, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases, Politics

By Long Island News & PR Published: December 03 2018

Curran: "Our volunteer fire service members are saving lives on the frontlines every day, and it is essential that we support them in every way we can."

Nassau County, NY - December 3, 2018 - Nassau County Executive Laura Curran today held a signing of a bi-partisan emergency resolution that was unanimously approved by the Nassau County Legislature to restore funding for tuition assistance to eligible members of the Nassau County volunteer fire service pursuing an education at Nassau Community College, for the remaining 2018 semester and academic year of 2019.

Nothing is more important to us than the public safety of Nassau Countys residents. Our volunteer fire service members are saving lives on the frontlines every day, and it is essential that we support them in every way we can, said Curran. This grant provided funding that was an essential tool in recruitment of new volunteer fire service members. I am disappointed that Nassau County was not awarded this critical funding, and I will continue to work with our partners in Federal government to secure these dollars. I commend the County Legislature for their advocacy on this very important issue. I am signing this resolution to ensure that our volunteer fire service has the support they need to increase retention and recruitment and can continue their brave and selfless work.

I am proud to have sponsored funding of the SAFER resolution that reinstitutes the tuition assistance incentive for qualified Fire Fighters and Emergency Responders at Nassau County Community College, said Presiding Officer Richard Nicolello. This program will encourage recruitment new Fire Fighters and First Responders and is an educational incentive for the men and women who will avail themselves of this opportunity.

This legislation was spearheaded by Legislator Siela Bynoe and Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton.

Every day, volunteer firefighters and EMTs across Nassau County put their lives on the line to protect our communities. Ensuring these courageous citizens have every opportunity to pursue a brighter future through the opportunities afforded by the SAFER grant program is the least we can do to express our appreciation, Legislator Siela A. Bynoe (D - Westbury), the lead sponsor of the measure, said. I am grateful that my colleagues addressed this matter swiftly and thank County Executive Curran for signing this legislation today.

When the call for help comes, Nassau Countys first responders are always there for us in our hour of need. Thats why it is so important for the Nassau County Legislature to do all we can to support these brave volunteers, Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton (D - Glen Cove), who co-sponsored the proposal with Legislator Bynoe, said. I applaud Legislator Bynoe for her diligence in addressing this matter and thank my fellow legislators and County Executive Curran for supporting this important legislation.

This funding was previously provided through a $1.6 million multi-year Federal grant from the Department of Homeland Security awarded in 2014 known as Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER). For the Fall of 2018 semester, there were 177 student participants in the program, 74 of them new. An average of about 200 students have participated each semester since the Fall of 2015 semester, when the grant began. The resolution will require allocation of additional County funds.Local News, Crime, Press Releases

By Long Island News & PR Published: December 03 2018

A 16-year-old male pedestrian is in serious condition after being struck while crossing the street, cops say.

SCPD are investigating a crash that injured a pedestrian in Commack.

Commack, NY - December 3, 2018 - Suffolk County Police Fourth Squad detectives are investigating a crash that seriously injured a teenage pedestrian in Suffolk County Police Fourth Squad detectives are investigating a crash that seriously injured a teenage pedestrian in Commack on Friday, November 30.

George Geevarghese was driving a 2003 Jaguar X-Type southbound on Kings Park Road when he struck a 16-year-old male pedestrian, who may have been crossing the road from east to west, at approximately 7:20 p.m.

The pedestrian, a Chinese national attending school in the United States and residing in Commack, was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital in serious but stable condition. Geevarghese, 69, of Commack, was not injured.

The vehicle was impounded for a safety check.

The investigation is continuing. Detectives are asking anyone with information to call the Fourth Squad at 631-854-8452 or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS.Local News, Crime, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases

By Long Island News & PR Published: December 03 2018

Applicants Can Register Online at www.JoinSCPD.com or Call SCPD Recruitment Office at 1-88-SCP-EXAM.

Suffolk County, NY - December 3, 2018 - Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and Suffolk County Police Commissioner Geraldine Hart today announced that registration is now open to sign up for the upcoming Suffolk County Police Department entrance exam that will be held on June 15, 2019. The deadline to register for the highly competitive exam is April 3, 2019. Registration for the 2019 Suffolk County Police Department and the Police Spanish Speaking exam can be found at Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and Suffolk County Police Commissioner Geraldine Hart today announced that registration is now open to sign up for the upcoming Suffolk County Police Department entrance exam that will be held on June 15, 2019. The deadline to register for the highly competitive exam is April 3, 2019. Registration for the 2019 Suffolk County Police Department and the Police Spanish Speaking exam can be found at www.JoinSCPD.com

Crime in Suffolk County is at the lowest level in recorded history, and we expect this trend to continue by recruiting the very best to serve and protect, said Suffolk County Executive Bellone. I encourage anyone interested in pursuing a career in public safety to take the exam and give strong consideration to joining the ranks of our respected law enforcement professionals.

We only offer this test once every four years, and with all of the progress weve made, we want to make the most of this tremendous opportunity, said Suffolk County Police Commissioner Geraldine Hart. It is our responsibility to bring along the next generation of leaders, those who will dedicate their lives to protecting our residents and to keep our communities safe and I have no doubt these new recruits will carry the touch with honor and integrity.

The exam is offered every four years and lures thousands of applicants who are interested in a career in law enforcement. Registrants must be between the ages of 19  34 with a six-month exception for applicants with active military duty experience. They must also have graduated from a standard high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma recognized by the New York State Department of Education Registration. Possession of a valid New York State drivers license is also required.

Candidates who pass the written test will be called for the following qualifying tests and evaluations as needed.

Comprehensive Medical Evaluation

Candidates will be required to meet the medical standards for Police Officer and/or Police Officer (Spanish Speaking) prescribed by the New York State Municipal Police Training Council and by Suffolk County.

Psychological/Personality Evaluation

This evaluation will consist of written tests and an interview designed to assess the suitability of the candidates personality for the position of Police Officer and/or Police Officer (Spanish Speaking).

Physical Fitness Screening Test

Candidates will be required to meet the qualifying fitness screening test standards for Police Officer and/or Police Officer (Spanish Speaking) as prescribed by the New York State Municipal Police Training Council.

New Recruitment Effort

In order to ensure the diversity of the Suffolk County Police Department is reflective of the communities that it serves, the county will be launching an extensive multimedia and social media outreach campaign after the holiday season. The outreach campaign will focus on attracting minority and women candidates who are most likely to meet the requirements to be a police officer. The campaign will utilize both, English and Spanish, through television, social media, radio stations and print media  including outlets that primarily serve or are directed towards the African-American and Hispanic communities. In addition, the Police Department will be performing grassroots outreach to community organizations, local churches, college campuses and more throughout Long Island and the tri-state area.

The Department selected Crown Advertising based in Hauppauge earlier this year through a request for proposal (RFP) process to lead the campaign. The Suffolk County Police Department has additionally quadrupled the amount of staff that is committed to recruitment within its community relations bureau.SPRINGFIELD -- Friendly's has closed its location at 65 Sumner Ave., according to workers there who said they were informed of the shutdown Sunday night.

Employees were in the store Monday cleaning up. The Wilbraham-based chain said it hopes to move the restaurant's workers to other Friendly's locations.

Friendly's is down to fewer than 230 locations, including both franchised and corporately owned restaurants.

In 2012, after the chain emerged from federal bankruptcy protection, it had 254 restaurants -- 121 company-owned and 133 franchised.

Today, it's down to 230 locations evenly split between franchises and company-owned. Friendly's restaurants closed this year in Bourne, Gloucester, Ludlow, South Hadley and Westfield.

The end of the Sumner Avenue location leaves just one Friendly's -- the one on Boston Road-- left in the city where the chain was founded.

The Boston Road restaurant is adjacent to the Friendly's plant across the town line in Wilbraham.

Friendly's sold its retail ice cream and manufacturing business to Dallas, Texas-based Dean Foods Co. in 2016 for $155 million. Dean sells ice cream to supermarkets and Friendly's restaurants.

Friendly's has opened new locations, however. There are now restaurants at the Apex Center in Marlborough and in Merrimack, New Hampshire. Friendly's hopes to add five to 10 restaurants by 2019.

Brothers S. Prestley and Curtis Blake founded Friendly -- the apostrophe-s wasn't added until years later -- in 1935 in Springfield and grew the company quickly in the years following World War II. The brothers, both still living past their 100th year, sold to Hershey Foods in 1979.

The company changed hands a few times before becoming an independent corporation, and Pres Blake fought a long battle against a previous management regime he felt was destroying the brand and its legacy.

It was Pres Blake's activism that resulted in his opponents selling the company in 2007 to Sun Capital for $337.2 million.Leaving Interstate 91 as it stands with its elevated viaduct blocking Springfield from its riverfront is unacceptable to nine area mayors and the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council -- and they let state officials know it in no uncertain terms.

The Economic Development Council says the Massachusetts Department of Transportation disrespected local leaders this fall when it chose that cheaper option for the long-term future of the roadway.

"If Marty Walsh walks into DOT and says, 'I want this alternative,' nobody says 'No, Mayor of Boston, stick it in your ear and go away.' The mayor of Springfield, not so much," Springfield lawyer Paul P. Nicolai said Friday in an interview. Nicolai is chairman of the EDC's infrastructure committee and one of the people who helped formulate the EDC's response to the transportation department's final report on a multi-year I-91 study released last week.

The comparison to Boston also was made in a strongly worded letter the EDC sent to the state Office of Transportation Planning during the study's public comment period in October that was included in MassDOT's final report.

"At the political level, if the mayor of Boston and eight mayors of its surrounding communities told MassDOT that one of the alternatives in a Boston-based study of this nature was the preferred alternative, MassDOT would acquiesce without question," the EDC's letter said. "Does the Governor really want his representatives on MassDOT to openly disrespect the Pioneer Valley's political leadership?"

An older letter from nine area mayors in support of bringing the highway down to street level also was included in the final report. The letter was signed by mayors Domenic Sarno of Springfield, Richard Kos of Chicopee, Karen Cadieux, the former mayor of Easthampton, Richard Cohen, the former mayor of Agawam, William Reichelt of West Springfield, Alex Morse of Holyoke, David Narkewicz of Northampton, William Martin of Greenfield and Brian Sullivan of Westfield.

"What DOT proposes not only ignores the input of the Pioneer Valley's economic and political leadership, it says our region's economic future deserves no investment," the EDC letter said. "The economic future of our region and the essential role this highway plays in it requires that this decision be reversed."

The EDC supports a plan for Interstate 91 that would drop the Springfield viaduct to ground level and move it closer to the railroad tracks in a $3.5 billion construction project that wouldn't commence until 2040.

The option could clear the way from downtown to the Connecticut River shoreline and create 47 acres of developable land in the heart of Springfield.

But MassDOT preferred a plan that would leave the interstate standing and instead redesign and rebuild the highway surrounding the viaduct including the Route 57 rotary in Agawam and the Longmeadow curve. The cost: $826 million in 2040 dollars compared to the $3.5 billion EDC pushed for.

MassDOT's October decision to back the cheaper alternative threatens to set the terms for every conversation about the highway, and about Springfield, for a generation, Nicolai said. He said he fears that each time getting rid of the viaduct is mentioned, a bureaucrat will cite this recent decision and point to its conclusion.

"Which means that Springfield's riverfront is never going to be made accessible," Nicolai said. "Respect wasn't on the table."

The EDC's letter also makes a point about finances, contending that the cost of its preferred option -- $3.5 billion in 2040 dollars -- is about a fifth of the final cost of the Big Dig project in Boston.

"... the city of Boston has about 700,000 residents; Springfield has about 150,000 residents. An investment of $3.5 billion in 2040 is barely equitable in terms of population affected and certainly in no way unreasonable," the EDC letter said.

"It's not the cheapest alternative. It's not the most expensive, either," said Richard K. Sullivan Jr., president and CEO of the EDC, in an interview Friday. "We're really disappointed that MassDOT turned its back on all that.'

What MassDOT is saying, according to Sullivan, is: "We are never going to do anything. We are just going to repair in place."

MassDOT's long-term planning project for the Interstate 91 viaduct occurred at the same time as the recently completed reconstruction of the roadway. But the study looks at construction projects that would follow once the recent work is itself worn out -- not until 2040 or so.

Sarno said he entered the planning process with a lot of goals. One was to lower the highway from Liberty Street south to Union or Broad streets.

But he also said the state needs to redo the Longmeadow curve bottleneck, a project included in MassDOT's preferred plan with a price tag of $212.75 million.

"What's plausible, what's realistic?" he said. "It goes to what realistically can be funded."

Sarno said there are opportunities for the region to get the projects surrounding I-91 funded sooner than the 2040 expected replacement. U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, D-Springfield, is soon to be chairman of the House Ways & Means Committee. Gov. Charlie Baker is receptive to the city's needs, Sarno said. The Trump administration advocates for infrastructure spending.

The region has many more highway and road needs than could ever be funded, said Timothy Brennan, executive director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission.

"I don't know how you magically come up with billions of dollars for one project," he said. "There are so many things we would love to do."

He said a frustrating part of this process is that MassDOT did not give local leaders realistic cost estimates for projects until later in the process.

But the decision not to back a plan to lower the highway was made at the highest levels of MassDOT and certainly has the approval of Stephanie Pollack, secretary and CEO of MassDOT, Brennan said.

"MassDOT appreciates input from elected officials and stakeholders regarding this study and will continue to consider all feedback as we move forward with potential infrastructure investments," MassDOT spokesman Patrick Marvin said in an email Friday.

As for the next steps, Marvin pointed to language in the MassDOT report that says all the area towns should continue to work together and advocate for funding.

Public response to Interstate 91 plans by Jim Kinney on ScribdA World-War II-era film focusing on Polish-Ukrainian hatred that culminated in the massacre of Poles in Volhynia will be screened at the Elms College Library Theater Sunday, Dec. 9.

The event will include a lecture on the historical event depicted in the movie.

The Polish Center of Discovery and Learning will host the event, "A Lecture by Dr. Tadeusz Piotrowski and the Film 'Wolyn'," beginning at 2 p.m. at 291 Springfield St., Chicopee. There is no charge for admission, but donations will be accepted.

"Wolyn" (in Polish with English subtitles) is a 2016 Polish drama film directed by Wojciech Smarzowski.

It tells the story of young Polish girl, Zosia Glowacka, from a Volhynia village settled by Ukrainians, Poles and Jews. Despite being in love with a Ukrainian boy from the same village, she is forced to marry a wealthy widower. Soon World War II begins, and ethnic tensions arise. Zosia tries to survive amid the war chaos.

Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in the 1990s, Volhynia has been part of Ukraine.

The movie is graphic and brutal and only shows a small part of the cruelties done during the Wolyn genocide to Poles, Jews, Czechs and others; it also shows the good done by Ukrainians as well.

The graphic film depicts extreme violence and is not recommended for young audiences.

The screenplay was based on the collection of short stories titled "Hate" (in Polish, "Nienawisc") by Stanislaw Srokowski.

"Wolyn" was nominated for the Golden Lions Award at the 41st Gdynia Film Festival and received awards for cinematography, best debut and best makeup.

Piotrowski will lead a discussion and question-and-answer period. He is professor emeritus of sociology at the University of New Hampshire where he also taught courses in anthropology and the Holocaust. He authored several books on Poland's World War II history, with a special focus on Polish ethnic groups and minorities. Some of his subjects include the Soviet invasion of Poland and the ethnic cleansing by Ukrainian nationalists in Volhynia, where he lived with his family under the Soviet and German occupations until 1943.

Piotrowski "has studied the massacre, written about it and has intimate knowledge of it," said Stas R. Radosz, founder and executive director of the Polish Center of Discovery and Learning. "This is the 75th anniversary of this event, a horrific massacre that generally is unknown in this country."

Piotrowski received several awards for promoting Polish history and culture in North America through his books and for preserving the memory of the Polish struggle for independence.

Radosz said atrocities continue throughout the world to this day. "I do not see that we have learned anything from the past, and I suspect we can expect similar incidents to occur in the future," he commented. "I strongly believe that this (film and lecture) is a valuable teaching and learning opportunity about not just an historical event, but our nature as human beings."

For more information about the Polish Center of Discovery and Learning -- a non-profit educational resource center and museum -- go to or call 413-592-0001.Judas Priest is returning to Mohegan Sun Arena.

The band will play the Connecticut casino on May 16 at 7 p.m.

Tickets for the show are on sale beginning Dec. 7 at 10 a.m. through all Ticketmaster outlets and locations including ticketmaster.com and by phone at (800) 745-3000.

Uriah Heep will open the show. Judas Priest has been at the forefront of heavy metal for nearly 50 years.

The band is touring to support its most recent studio recording "Firepower."A judge on Monday sentenced Cornell Mills, a city employee and former Boston City Council candidate to probation after he pleaded guilty to posing as a real estate broker.

Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey's office said Mills posed as a real estate broker and asked potential Boston homebuyers to hand over thousands of dollars.

Mills said he would hold the money in escrow while the purchase of the home was still pending, according to Healey's office. He did not have any escrow account.

He spent the money on airplane tickets and a cruise to Jamaica, authorities said.

Judge Elizabeth Fahey suspended a sentence of two and a half years in a house of correction and put Mills on three years of probation.

Mills, a 44-year-old Roxbury man, must pay back $36,651 in restitution and he can't work as a broker or manage funds.

He pleaded guilty in Suffolk Superior Court last week to seven counts of larceny over $250, six counts of fiduciary embezzlement, one count of acting as a broker without a license and one count of being a "common and notorious thief."

Authorities opened an investigation into Mills in 2016, and he was first charged in April 2017. The state's Division of Professional Licensure and the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office referred the case to Healey's office.

Mills, who the Boston Globe reported works for the city, once worked in the DA's homicide division. He ran for City Council in 2011.

Mills is a son of former state Sen. Dianne Wilkerson, a Democrat who pleaded guilty to federal corruption charges in 2010. She was released in 2013.

His attorney Robert Sheketoff did not immediately respond to a request for comment.Authorities now say several people were seriously injured in a school bus crash on Route 24 in Berkley Saturday night.

Massachusetts State Police spokesman David Procopio said of the 23 people aboard the First Student, Inc. bus, both adults and children were taken to Rhode Island Hospital in Providence with serious injuries, and others were transported to local hospitals with less serious injuries from the 9:45 p.m. crash.

One of the children who was seriously injured has been transferred from Rhode Island Hospital to a Boston hospital for further treatment.

Investigators said preliminary information indicates the bus that was returning First Student, Inc. employees and their families from a company trip to the La Salette Shine in North Attleborough either drove or was forced off the right side of the southbound lane and into woods. The company is located in Tiverton, RI.

The State Police initially reported two adults were seriously injured, but Procopio said in a release issued Sunday that the tally has increased to include several more adults as well as several children. He did not release a specific number.

The driver of the car that crashed at the same time as the bus was arrested and charged with OUI, Procopio said.

Christy Gilpatrick, 27, of Warren, Rhode Island, crashed her car at the same time and place as the bus. However, investigators have yet to determine if Gilpatrick's vehicle either caused or contributed to the bus crash. Police are also trying to determine if any other vehicles may have been involved in the incident. The incident remains under investigation by the State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section and Troopers from Troop D.An assistant chief probation officer in the Massachusetts court system was arrested Monday on a federal child exploitation charge after authorities say he sent sexual images to a young girl.

Brian Orlandella, a 46-year-old Beverly man who is an assistant chief probation officer at Lynn District Court, was charged in Boston federal court with one count of sexual exploitation of a child and one count of transfer of obscene material to a minor.

He is scheduled to return Friday for a probable cause hearing, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Authorities say in May, a mother in Texas contacted police there about messages she discovered on her 13-year-old daughter's cell phone. The messages were between her daughter and an adult man, later identified as Orlandella.

The messages, sent via Kik, revealed conversations in which Orlandella sent the girl sexual images of himself and asked her to send him naked pictures and videos, according to authorities.

"She told him she was 14-years-old, and he acknowledged that he is much older than she is," the U.S. Attorney's Office said.

Investigators traced the Kik account's IP address to Orlandella's residence in Beverly. Law enforcement seized phones at the home Monday morning, authorities said.Four sororities filed a lawsuit against Harvard University Monday, saying the school's new policy of punishing students who participate in single-gender social clubs unfairly discriminates against women.

The sororities filed a pair of federal lawsuits Monday, along with two fraternities and three individual male students who say they have been threatened and intimidated out of their roles in campus organizations because of their participation in single-gender social clubs that have historically led to job and networking opportunities for students at the university.

A federal court suit alleges the sanctions imposed on single-gender clubs violated Title IX, a federal anti-discrimination law, and the United States Constitution.

The Massachusetts complaint, brought by two Greek organizations, allege the sanctions violate Civil Rights Act and the Massachusetts Constitution by denying students equal treatment on the basis of sex.

The plaintiffs in the Massachusetts suit are the international parent group of sorority Alpha Phi and a management company for chapters of sorority Delta Gamma.

In the federal case, the plaintiffs are the international organizations for two sororities, Kappa Alpha Theta and Kappa Kappa Gamma; the parent groups for two fraternities, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and Sigma Chi; Harvard's chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon; and three current Harvard students, who are not named in the suit.

The legal action comes after a 2016 decision by Harvard to regulate the school's off-campus social clubs. The "Sanctions Policy" - which took effect with the class of 2021 - bars members of single-gender clubs and Greek organizations from holding campus leadership positions, becoming varsity team captains, and from receiving endorsements for fellowships like the Rhodes, according to the Harvard Crimson.

This was aimed at dealing with issues of sexual assault, which the university blamed in part on the culture within all-male organizations.

"The common thread that ties together all of Harvard's ever-shifting justifications for the Sanctions Policy is sexism. Harvard's views that all-male organizations cause sexual assault because they are all-male and that there is no value to all-female or all-male organizations are sexist in the extreme," lawyers wrote in the federal suit. "No objective evidence has ever shown that the single-sex nature of all-male organizations increases sexual assaults at Harvard."

Lawyers say 87 percent of sexual assaults at Harvard happen in co-ed dorms run by the university.

"Harvard's view that all-male clubs--because they are all-male--are misogynistic, racist, homophobic, and classist, is also sexist. So is Harvard's view that men's organizations--because they are men's organizations--dispense privilege and advantage that otherwise would not be dispensed were they co-ed. There is nothing intrinsic to being a man, or joining a men's social club, that causes any of these harms," lawyers wrote in the suit.

Women at the university were told the sororities were "collateral damage" that served no real purpose at Harvard, lawyers alleged in the suit.

Organizations like Kappa Alpha Theta, the second largest sorority in the nation, have a storied history of producing powerful members including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Melinda Gates, and more.

In July, Theta's Zeta Zi Chapter for Harvard had to relinquish its charter.

"By forcing women to make an impossible choice--between holding leadership positions and applying for scholarships and fellowships or being members of communities specifically designed to support and empower college women to have those aspirations--Harvard's administrators placed our chapter in an untenable situation," members of the sorority wrote in a statement included in the federal suit.

Kappa Kappa Gamma, too, had to relinquish its official status at Harvard because of the single-gender restrictions.

The policy has also harmed the "personal reputation" of plaintiffs, lawyers wrote in the federal suit. A man identified as John Doe 1 said he faced "social stigma and embarrassment" when Harvard justified the policy by saying men's organizations are responsible for "sexual assaults at Harvard and perpetrate various forms of bigotry."

Harvard did not immediately respond to a request for comment.AMHERST - Sunday's inauguration of the 13-person Town Council was also a celebration -- communicated by a series of speakers -- about the community's heritage and wishes for a promising future.

Judge James Collins, first justice for the Franklin/Hampshire Juvenile Court in Massachusetts, administered the oath of office for the councilors. The town's new governing body will convene for the first time Monday night, when councilors are expected to begin, among other things, establishing rules to govern their actions.

Retired Amherst attorney Bob Ritchie, chairman of Amherst Bylaw Review Committee, who attended the inauguration, will advise the council about the development of their rules.

Nancy Eddy, the master of ceremonies for the inauguration, told the hundreds attending the event that the new council must allow "public comment at each of your meetings."

She added: "I promise we will call you, sometimes at inconvenient times ... and praise you from time to time."

Those sworn in were: at-large councilors Mandi Jo Hanneke, Alisa Brewer and Andrew Steinberg, District 1 councilors Sarah Swartz and Cathy Schoen, District 2 councilors Lynn Griesemer and Patricia DeAngelis, District 3 councilors Dorothy Pam and George Ryan, District 4 councilors Evan Ross and Stephen Schreiber and District 5 councilors Shalini Bahl-Milne and Darcy Dumont.

The festivities, held at Amherst-Pelham Regional High School, included a song by the Crocker Farm Elementary School Choir, a keynote address by Matthew Charity, chairman of the town's Human Rights Commission, a poem by Amherst poet Karen Skolfield, and a song by Torin Moore. The choir was under the direction of music teacher Eleanor Lincoln.

High school senior Karrington Dowe spoke, as did Town Manager Paul Bockelman, Select Board Chairman Douglas Slaughter and Reverand Vicki Kemper of First Congregational Church.

Slaughter's remarks were the last official act of the town's Select Board, which is now disbanded, replaced by the Town Council.

"We are together to celebrate the people ... our common values" Slaughter said.

"Congratulations on your election, good luck to all of you," he said.

"It is a distinct honor to work with you, our new council," Bockelman said. "Our employees, up and down the line are excellent ... I am truly proud to be part of this town administration."

In Skolfield's poem, she recounted the 1888 fire and blizzard that destroyed the old town hall at Palmer Block and spoke about how the community helped one another.

The current town hall was built the following year.

"I hope we will all be proud of our government for many years to come," Charity said.

Prior to swearing in the new councilors, Collins, recounting the sentiments of Eleanor Roosevelt, said: "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their ideas and dreams."

He told the councilors their purpose is the "decent, effective and inclusive governing of our town."BELCHERTOWN - Police are seeking the public's help in identifying a suspect who last week illegally shot and killed a deer in a field from the side of the road in a residential neighborhood on Federal Street and then fled in a red truck.

According to police, just before 5 p.m. on Thursday, police were called to the area of 900 Federal Street, near where Federal Street meets Route 9, for a report of illegal hunting.

A landowner told officers that an unknown person standing on the edge of the field had shot a deer. The location of the field is within 500 feet of several homes, and there were several other homes through the tree line, police said.

The body of the deer was located nearby.

Witnesses told police they observed a red Ford F-350 diesel flatbed truck start to drive into field where the deer was found. When the driver saw people walking toward where the deer fell, the truck turned and sped off down Federal Street, police said.

The shooting is being investigated by the Belchertown police and the state Environmental Police.

In Massachusetts, deer hunting season with a shotgun began Nov. 26 and continues to Dec. 8. Hunters must have a license and wear orange.

The state permits hunting on private property as long as it is not posted for no trespassing. It recommends hunters seek permission of the property owner before going on the property.

It is against the law to shoot a firearm within 500 feet of a dwelling.

If you have any information pertaining to this incident, please contact Officer Robert Mann at 413-323-6685 or email rmann@belchertown.org.LEYDEN - A 60-year-old driver was killed in a single-vehicle crash Saturday night in the Franklin County town of Leyden, according to the Northwestern District Attorney's Office.

Mary Carey, communications director for the Northwestern DA, said the deceased has been identified as James Pachalis, a Leyden resident.

The crash occurred on Keets Brook Road.

Police were notified at 6:40 p.m. of a single-vehicle crash, and when officers responded, they found a Chevrolet Silverado pickup off the road and on its roof.

Pachalis was found unconscious in the driver's seat. No one else was in the vehicle.

Carey said it was determined Pachalis died of injuries suffered in the crash. The official cause of death is pending an examination by the medical examiner.

The crash is under investigation by the Leyden police and the state police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section.

Leyden is a town of around 700 people , roughly 10 miles north of Greenfield and borders on Vermont.SPRINGFIELD - Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni announced Friday that the victim in a fatal shooting Friday night at the Knox Street Market was the wife of the business owner.

The deceased was identified at Virginia Rodriguez-Veras, 34, according to the DA's office.

Rodriguez-Veras was killed during what is described by the DA's office as a shoot-out inside Knox Street Market, 17 Knox St.

Another victim, a man whose name is not being released, was shot in the neck.

According to the DA, three men entered the market sometime before 6:30 p.m. in an attempt the store at gunpoint. Shots rang out, Rodriguez-Veras and the unnamed man were hit, and the suspects fled.

Police have arrested one man who is suspected of being involved, but the others remain at large.

Duryl Hale, 22, of Springfield is charged with armed assault with intent to commit robbery with a firearm, assault & battery by discharging a firearm, attempt to commit an assault and battery by discharging a firearm, possession of a loaded firearm, felon in possession of a firearm.

He is scheduled to be arraigned Monday in Springfield District Court.

The shooting is considered an active and open investigation by Springfield police and state police assigned to Gulluni's office.

Hale in February 2016 was sentenced to 2 to 3 years in prison after he admitted to four counts of armed robbery and one count of armed assault with intent to rob.

According to the state Department of Criminal Justice Information Services, Hale has been convicted in 2014 and 2016 for armed robbery. In each instance, the weapon he used was a knife.

For the 2014 conviction, when he was 18, he was not sentenced to any prison time.

According to state records, he was released from prison on Sept. 10.A Massachusetts district court judge who is reportedly under federal investigation should not be handling criminal cases while a review is underway, Gov. Charlie Baker said Monday.

The Boston Globe reports federal prosecutor Andrew Lelling has convened a grand jury to investigate the role District Court Judge Shelley Joseph may have played in helping an undocumented immigrant, Jose Medina-Perez, get away from federal immigration authorities in April.

Speaking to reporters at the State House, Gov. Baker, who nominated Joseph, called the story "extremely troubling."

"I don't believe she should be hearing criminal cases until that federal case is resolved," Baker said, adding that there is precedent for court officials taking such action.

A court spokeswoman declined to comment when asked about Baker's remarks.

Baker said he did not regret nominating Joseph.

"Look, judges are not supposed to be in the business of obstructing justice," the governor said. "And as far as I can tell, based on the facts as they were presented, she clearly violated the court's own policies with respect to the way they're supposed to handle continuance and involve federal immigration enforcement."

The Globe reported the judge told attorneys "ICE is going to get him," an apparent reference to an agent in the building, and offered to continue the case. She then told a clerk to switch off the audio recorder in the courtroom.

The newspaper says she may have broken two court policies: Judges cannot help or hurt the efforts of federal agents, and court sessions, with some exceptions, must be recorded.

Citing sources, the Globe reported that Medina-Perez later left through a back door, "scaled a fence and took off, leaving the immigration agent behind."

Baker nominated Joseph in 2017. A criminal defense lawyer who specialized in Registry of Motor Vehicle hearings and restraining orders, she also worked as an assistant attorney general from 1993 to 2000.

This post was updated with an embedded video and a court spokeswoman declining to comment. It was further updated with a link to an updated story from Tuesday.SPRINGFIELD -- Assistant District Attorney Max Bennett said Monday Duryl Hale will be charged with murder for his alleged participation with two other men in an armed robbery that led to the fatal shooting of a city woman Friday.

Hale denied a series of charges from the armed robbery and shootout inside the Knox Street Market, which left the store owner's wife dead.

"There's a murder charge coming for him," Bennett said of Hale.

Bennett said Hale will be charged with felony murder, a joint venture charge with the person who fired the fatal shot and the other man with them in the store.

Hale is the only one of the three arrested so far.

Springfield District Court Judge John Payne set bail at the $100,000 amount requested by Bennett. Defense lawyer William O'Neil asked for a bail amount of $10,000.

Bennett said video from the store showed Hale pointing a gun at the head of the 16-year-old son of the store owner. The man in the video had a sleeve pulled back, revealing a tattoo that matches Hale's.

Hale did not shoot the 16-year-old, Bennett said, but during the incident a bullet grazed the young man's head.

Bennett said Hale was involved in a "series of events essentially terrorizing the Knox Street area."

Hale is also accused in a shooting Thursday on Dexter Street in which no one was injured, Bennett said.

Killed in the Knox Market shooting was Virginia Rodriguez-Veras, 34, wife of the store owner, who had come out to check on her son, Bennett said. She was shot in the arm and the bullet went into her chest cavity, he said.

Hale was the first person to fire shots in the store. The store owner returned fire, Bennett said.

About 15 minutes after the store shooting Hale was one of three men firing shots on Northampton Street, Bennett said.

A lookout for the car from Northampton Street led police to Hale, Bennett said. Ammunition in the car tied Hale to the Dexter Street shooting and the Knox Street Market shooting, he said.

Hale, 22, of Springfield is charged with armed assault with intent to commit robbery with a firearm, assault & battery by discharging a firearm, attempt to commit an assault and battery by discharging a firearm, possession of a loaded firearm, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

O'Neil said there was no positive identification of Hale from any of the incidents.About 100 students were evacuated from residence halls at Wheaton College Sunday morning after fires were intentionally set in two dorm bathrooms, authorities said.

The students were evacuated from McIntire Hall around 6 a.m., multiple news outlets reported. No injuries were reported.

Investigators said the fires were intentionally set in second- and third-floor bathrooms.

"Student safety and campus security is our highest priority," Wheaton College President Dennis M. Hanno said in a statement, according to WCVB. "We have increased campus patrols as a result of this incident, and we urge all members of the community to be on the lookout and report suspicious activity."

The television station reported that firefighters also responded to a third fire in a laundry room trash barrel late Sunday night.

Anyone with information about the fires is asked to call the Arson Hotline at 1-800-682-9229 or Wheaton College Campus Police at 508-286-8213.AMHERST - Just one week after the University of Massachusetts Republican Club brought former Trump White House press secretary Sean Spicer to campus, an appearance that drew protests, the same club is bringing the Manhattan Institute's Heather MacDonald to campus Tuesday night.

MacDonald, a frequent guest on Fox News whose campus appearances have drawn protests, will speak at 7 p.m. in the Campus Center about her book, "The Diversity Delusion: How Race and Gender Pandering Corrupt the University and Undermine our Culture."

"The book is about the identity politics and victim ideology that have taken over college campuses," MacDonald said in a recent interview posted on the Manhattan Institute's website.

MacDonald is also the author of "The War on Cops." Her appearances speaking about that book have drawn protests from members of #BlackLivesMatter on college campuses.

"The most controversial aspect of my new book, 'The War on Cops,' is my claim that violent crime is up in many American cities because officers are backing off of proactive policing," MacDonald wrote in a 2016 Washington Post op-ed. "I have dubbed this double phenomenon of de-policing and the resulting crime increase the 'Ferguson effect,' picking up on a phrase first used by St. Louis's police chief."The body of a teenager was found at the scene of a fire Saturday night in Millbury, according to the Worcester District Attorney's office.

Authorities responded to a fire at 26 Stone Road in Millbury and discovered the boy's body in a living room.

"The smoky fire in the living room of the home was reported shortly after 9 p.m. Saturday," the district attorney's office said. "The body of the boy who lived in the home was found in the rubble of the room."

Three other residents of the home escaped the fire. One resident did end up with burns to his face and arms while trying to put out the fire with an extinguisher, authorities said.

An autopsy will be performed to determine the cause of the teenager's death. His name has not been released.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the by the Millbury Police and Fire Departments and Massachusetts State Police troopers assigned to the State Fire Marshal's office.With the first two recreational marijuana dispensaries up and running in the state, cultivators are working around the clock to make sure their inventories are ready for an upcoming boom in demand.

On Route 20 in Worcester, Temescal Wellness' facility is gearing up for what staff predict will be a substantial increase in sales. Within five days of opening, the state's first two adult-use pot shops sold $2.2 million in products.

"From a production standpoint, it's a lot of hard work to get ready for it," said Bill Carr, Temescal's production manager of cultivation. "Just making sure we have enough to meet the demand."

Temescal operates three dispensaries in Massachusetts, including Pittsfield, Hudson and Framingham. It currently sells medical marijuana, but the company is planning to sell adult-use products at its Pittsfield and Hudson locations pending local and state approval.

The Worcester cultivation facility had a daylong inspection for recreational sales last week and hopes to open its first adult-use dispensary at one of its locations after the first of the year.

Temescal produces cannabis flowers, edibles and other infused products like salves and oils.

The cultivation process begins in the facility's "mother room," where horticulturalists create clones from clippings. Those clones then grow for another three weeks before workers flower them out. After another eight weeks, the buds are harvested and dried for five to eight days.

Samples are then sent to a third-party laboratory where they're tested for yeast, mold, bacteria and heavy metals.

"It's very rigorous," said Christopher Cover, Temescal's marketing and digital media manger.

And growing the plants is the easy part.

Any company hoping to sell recreational products has to take a number of steps to prepare, including switching all their information over to a new state database that tracks each plant for adult-use sales. Carr said that means employees have to hand-type tracking information for the site's 6,000 plants into the new system.

They also need to make sure all the labeling meets recreational laws, meaning some medical products - specifically, those that contain more than 100 mg of THC and/or serving sizes larger than 5 mg - cannot be sold for adult-use.

"For example, a medical chocolate bar is 120 mg with 12 bricks. That makes each brick 10 mg - too high for adult use," Cover said.

When the company begins selling recreational marijuana, it will keep a separate inventory for medical patients to ensure that products are always available.

Temescal is also building out its own line of branded products - a move that Cover said will likely be common among dispensaries in the coming years. Temescal's brands include Avid Abundance edibles and Core Concentrates - a line of waxes, resins and other concentrated products.

Everything is made at the company's industrial kitchen in Worcester.

"That's part of our task of building out these brands by creating loyalty to the brands," Cover said.

Temescal also plans to release seasonal products like cannabis-infused peppermints.

The company has even built an explosive-proof room at its Worcester facility where staff extract butane hash oil (BHO), which has some of the highest THC content in the industry.

"That's kind of a bragging point," Cover said.

Moving forward into the recreational space, he said Temescal will remain wellness-focused because even if customers aren't medical patients, Cover said they can still find relief from marijuana.

Temescal offers a 22 percent discount to veterans in honor of the 22 veterans who lose their lives to suicide each day in the United States, as well as an additional discount for 100 percent disabled veterans.

"We really see this as crucial part of the market that needs to be focused on specifically, " Cover said.

For Carr, reaching this point has been a dream come true. He's spent the last two decades working as a horticulturalist at area nurseries and was recently able to legally purchase his first marijuana harvest.

"I think everyone in the industry is excited for their personal growth in the industry, being a pioneer," he said. "There's no book on this."Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market 2023

Market Research Future Provide Premium Research Reports of every sector which is made by Professional Researcher with the fresh Content ever and this time Added Premium Research Reports on  Which is Belongs to the Healthcare IT Category so it helps to Organizations to take Major Decisions and it also Help to Analysis of Market Growth.

The Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market is growing at a steady pace and is expected to grow at a CAGR of ~7.2 % during review period 2017-2023.

Key Players in the Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market:

General Electric, Edan Instruments, Inc., Huntleigh Healthcare Limited, KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V, K2 Medical Systems, PeriGen, Inc, Cerner Corporation, Trium Analysis Online, and others.

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Market Scenario:

The clinical perinatal software monitor health of fetus and pregnant women. It provides information about any complexity that may arise during the prenatal period, which helps to minimize the problems during the pregnancy.

Increasing awareness and a rising birth rate & post-date pregnancy drive the growth of the market. Moreover, increasing healthcare expenditure, continuous development in technology, and increasing government support for research & development likely to boost the demand for the software. On the other hand, complex user interface and high cost of the software may slow the market growth over the assessment period.

Key Findings:

The Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market and is expected to reach USD 60 million by 2023.

Integrated software segment on the basis of products holds the largest share of 75.8% of the market.

Americas holds the largest market share of 39.2% of clinical perinatal software market and is anticipated to reach USD 93 million by the end of the forecast period.

Asia Pacific is the fastest growing region across the globe and expected to grow at a rate of CAGR 7.8% during the forecast period.

The report gives a clear picture of the current market scenario which includes historical and projected market size in terms of value and volume, technological advancement, macro economical and governing factors in the market. The report provides details information and strategies of the top key players in the industry. The report also gives a broad study of the different market segments and regions

Segments:

Clinical Perinatal Software Market has been segmented on the basis of products, which comprises of integrated software and standalone software.

On the basic of services, the market is segmented into implementation services, support & maintenance services, training service, customization services, and online resources.

On the basic of deployed models, the market is segmented on-premises and cloud-based.

On the basis of applications, the market is segmented into fetal monitor data services, workflow management, and patient documentation.

On the basis of end users, it is segmented into hospital & clinics and maternity clinics.

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Regional Analysis of the Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market:

The Americas region accounted for a lion share of USD 65.31 million in 2016, owing to the well-developed technology, high healthcare expenditure, and the presence of the leading players.

Europe is the second largest market that holds a noticeable share of the global clinical perinatal software market. The European market is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period owing to well-developed healthcare infrastructure and increasing investment in healthcare. Germany, the UK, and France contribute significantly to the growth of the European market.

In Asia Pacific, rising number of hospitals, increasing need for better diagnostic methods, and demand for cost-effective treatment & diagnostics services are the key factors for the market growth.

The Middle East & Africa is expected to show steady growth in this market due to low technology penetration and less availability of innovative healthcare technologies.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 Report Prologue

2 Introduction

2.1 Scope of Study

2.2 Research Objective

2.3 Assumptions & Limitations

2.3.1 Assumptions

2.3.2 Limitations

2.4 Market Structure

3 Research Methodology

3.1 Primary Research

3.2 Secondary Research

3.3 Market Size Estimation

3.3.1 Market Share Analysis

3.4 Market Pricing Approach

4 Market Dynamics

4.1 Introduction

4.2 Drivers

4.2.1 Technological Development in the Perinatal Software

4.2.2 Increasing Birth Rates and Postdate Pregnancy

4.2.3 Increasing Adoption of Healthcare It

4.3 Restraints

4.3.1 High Cost of the Software

4.3.2 Complexity in Operating the Software

4.4 Opportunities

4.4.1 Positive Approach of Government towards Healthcare Sector

4.5 Mega Trends

4.5.1 Increasing Popularity of Cloud-Based Deployment Model

4.6 Macroeconomic Indicators

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16 List of Tables

Table 1 Primary Interviews

Table 2 Merger & Acquisition

Table 3 Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market, By Product

Table 4 Global Integrated Software Market, By Region

Table 5 Global Standalone Software Market, By Region

Table 6 Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market, By Services

17 List of Figures

Figure 1 Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market Share, By Products

Figure 2 Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market Share, By Services

Figure 3 Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market Share, By Deployment Models

Figure 4 Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market Share, By Applications

Figure 5 Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market Share, By End Users

Figure 6 Global Clinical Perinatal Software Market Share, By Region

Continued!

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Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.comAlthough lifesaving, chemotherapy drugs are potentially hazardous to the pharmacists and other healthcare workers who routinely handle them. Closed System Transfer Devices (CSTDs) are used to move these drugs from one container to another, while preventing contamination and occupational exposure due to aerosolization or needle sticks. A reliable CSTD system is crucial for any pharmaceutical company or medical center that uses potentially toxic drugs.

Equashield, a CSTD manufacturer based in the United States, has most recently developed the Equashield Pro, a smarter drug compounding system that combines the companys CSTD technology with automation and image recognition to more quickly and accurately process hazardous drugs.

We asked Co-Founder and CEO Marino Kriheli more about the company and its newest automated drug compounding system.

Cici Zhou, Medgadget: Tell us about how and when Equashield was founded, and its journey to being the 200+ person company it is today.

Marino Kriheli: Equashield was officially founded in 2010 by Marino Kriheli, Tzahi Odiz, Eric Shem-Tov and Meron Mann. The company was born from PlastMed, an Original Equipment Manufacturer of medical devices, [which] specialized in complex fluid transfer systems. Equashield identified a niche in the transfer device market, specifically for the safe handling of hazardous drugs, following a 2004 National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety alert on the potential health risks of hazardous drug exposure.

The Equashield Closed System Transfer Device (CSTD) was designed from scratch to protect hospital pharmacists in compounding hazardous (chemotherapy) drugs, addressing all routes of exposure to hazardous drugs: syringe plunger contamination, connectors [with] drug residue, and escape of vapors. It proved so popular that the company had to move quickly to start filling orders for hospitals, including one of the top ten cancer centers in the US.

[In] 2014, Equashield introduced the EQUASHIELD II; its second-generation product to ensure foolproof use of the device, while still providing the same high level of protection. Both devices are cleared by the FDA under the ONB product code. Equashield CSTDs are now being used by hundreds of healthcare facilities in the US and across the globe. In 2016, Equashield entered the automation space with the introduction of the Equashield Pro, the first CSTD-enabled automated pharmacy compounding system.

Medgadget: How does the Equashield Pro work, and what advantages does it have over the current options?

Kriheli: The Equashield Pro is an Automated Pharmacy Compounding System specifically designed to facilitate the easy and affordable adoption of automation in the hospital pharmacy. Outfitted with Equashields flagship CSTD, the Pro provides a substantial layer of protection for healthcare workers when preparing hazardous drugs. There are several key advantages to the Equashield Pro:

As noted, the Pro is the only compounding robot that is built from the ground up to incorporate a CSTD for enhanced protection during drug compounding.

The incorporation of the CSTD also significantly speeds up operations. For example, with alternative systems, each vial has to be mechanically inserted into the machine and secured individually in its designated location. With vials coming in a variety of sizes and diameters, a robotic gripper must complete a time-consuming process to identify and grasp each vial before placing it on a scale for a lengthy and sensitive weighing process, before picking it up again for the next steps. With Equashield Pro, all vials are pre-attached to identical CSTD adaptors, easing the grippers process of retrieving vials. This allows large numbers of vials to be placed randomly on a tray for the gripper to pick up quickly and begin compounding, significantly speeding up the process. Easy identification of the correct vials is achieved through Equashields proprietary dose verification and image processing systems, preventing medication, dose and labeling errors throughout the compounding process.

Other robotic systems do not enable parallel operation, creating bottlenecks as often only one dose may be compounded at a time and must be completed to its entirety before another can be prepared. The intuitive design of Equashield Pro facilitates parallel operations with eight simultaneous workstations; eliminating cumbersome restrictions for [the] pharmacist and allowing the equipment operation as desired.

Finally, with a relatively small footprint, comparable in size to standard biological safety cabinets, it is easy to incorporate into existing hospital pharmacies without the need for the costly retrofitting of IV clean rooms.

Medgadget: At what stage is the Equashield Pro, in terms of number of users, development, and status of approval?

Kriheli: The Equashield Pro is fully developed, in compliance with all regulatory standards about robotics and is undergoing implementations in clinical practice. Purchase orders of the Equashield Pro have already been received from leading hospitals in the U.S. and Europe, including Austria, Italy, Greece and Spain. In keeping with the Equashield ethos, we are always innovating and already working on the next generation Equashield Pro. At this years American Society of Health-System Pharmacy (ASHP) Midyear Meeting, well be showcasing the Pros capabilities and providing demos for attendees.

Medgadget: What are the future directions for Equashield as a company?

Kriheli: Equashield is on a rapid growth trajectory. Since our founding, we have developed a philosophical approach of need-based innovation. Weve found areas in the safe handling market in particular that have been inadequate and developed the know-how to solve these problems Our next growth spurt will utilize our expertise in state-of-the-art medical device manufacturing. We will apply the principles of innovation and know-how to answer new market needs to bring about novel technologies for safe and efficient care. Naturally, we cant disclose the exact nature of our next developments for commercial reasons.

Link: Equashield company homepage

Flashback: Equashield Pro Automated High-Throughput Compounding Robot for Chemo DrugsGlobal MRI Safe Implantable Defibrillator Devices Market: Overview

Cardiac defibrillator which were invented to deliver shock in order to control the abnormal heartbeat rhythms were proved to be a valuable device as it can prevent sudden death. MRI which is one of the most important diagnosis test for various problems like neurology, orthopedics, and cardiology found it difficult to test a person implanted with defibrillator as it can cause harm to it, even damaging the myocardium, thus the invention of MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices gained popularity with the healthcare sector with no time. Flexibility of this defibrillator during MRI test, is the leading factor that is making the people implanted with conventional defibrillator shift to MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices market, as there are certain risk associated with the former during a MRI test.

Factors such as increase in geriatric population, rise in cardiac diseases and product advancement are promoting the growth of MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices. Increase in awareness among patient about their safety and various marketing campaigns by various manufacturers are contributing to the growth of the demand. However, the price tag of these devices is expected to deter the growth of the market during the forecast period. Apart from the price tag, absence of skilled professionals in emerging countries is also anticipated to pull down the market growth.

Cardiac defibrillator is a battery powered pulse generator used to correct the abnormal heart rhythms by delivering an electric shock. It is very valuable device in preventing sudden deaths. For several years in the past, MRI was not allowed in patients having implanted devices such as cardiac defibrillator or pacemakers as it may alter pacing properties or even damage myocardium, thus might be raising concerns for clinicians. As, MRI is one of the most useful diagnostic test for patients with various medical problems including cardiology, neurology, orthopaedics etc., therefore the development of MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices helps in solving the problem of risks associated with MRI scans. Several research in the area proves that nearly two-third of patients implanted with a defibrillator needed an MRI diagnosis within four years of implantation, thereby generating the need of MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices.

The MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices are available as single chambered or dual chambered. These devices are either recognized as MR conditional or MR safe devices. They contain specific hardware and software components specifically tested and officially verified for use under magnetic resonance environment.

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MRI Safe Implantable Defibrillator Devices Market: Drivers & Restraints

Several product advancements, rising geriatric population, increase in cardiac diseases and number of eligible population are some of the factors supporting the market growth of MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices. Furthermore, rising evidence about safety of these systems and effective marketing campaigns by various manufacturers supports the market growth of MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices. However, high product pricing and stringent regulatory issues for product approval lowers its market growth over the forecast period. Reimbursement issues, lack of skilled professionals in several countries are also limiting the market progress.

MRI Safe Implantable Defibrillator Devices Market: Segmentation

Segmentation by Product Type:

Single Chamber Defibrillator

Dual Chamber Defibrillator

Segmentation by Modality:

MR Conditional Defibrillator

MR Safe Defibrillator

Segmentation by End User

Hospitals

Ambulatory Surgical Centers

MRI Safe Implantable Defibrillator Devices Market: Overview

There are very few companies involved in the manufacturing of devices with MRI compatibility. The products are launched in the market only few years back. Medtronic announced the CE Mark and European launch of first MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices to allow for full-body MRI Scans in April 2014. USFDA has also approved the first MRI compatible ICD manufactured by Medtronic recently in September 2015. Despite the launch of MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices, most of the population is still present with the non-MRI compatible devices. Companies in this direction are investing on research and development activities for advancement in these device types to improve therapy outcomes and manufacturing of low cost MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices. Top 3 companies in this market represent most of the market share globally for these MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices due to their strong presence, product approvals, brand strength and lack of competitors.

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MRI Safe Implantable Defibrillator Devices Market: Region-wise Outlook

Geographically, North America leads the market for MRI Safe Implantable Defibrillator Devices services owing to the advanced healthcare facilities, high number of implants in the region as well as good reimbursement scenario. This is followed by the Western Europe countries due to easy approval of these devices by CE than by USFDA. Good adoption rate of MRI safe implantable defibrillator devices in the region promotes the growth. APEJ represents a significant growth opportunity for the MRI Safe Implantable Defibrillator devices over the forecast period owing to the rise in cardiac diseases, increase in healthcare spending and rising medical tourism. Japan also represents a substantial market share over the forecast period owing to the high number of geriatric population as well as available government support for medical facilities. Eastern Europe does not represent a significant market share due to less adoption rate of these devices. Latin America followed by Middle East & Africa represents the least market share as well as growth rate in the MRI Safe Implantable Defibrillator devices over the forecast period but represents a significant market opportunity for the market players because of the number of eligible population in these regions.

MRI Safe Implantable Defibrillator Devices Market Treatment Market: Key Players

Some of the players in the MRI Safe Implantable Defibrillator Devices market includes Medtronic, Boston Scientific Corporation, Abbott, Microport, Biotronik etc.

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Segmentation

Tissue Engineering Market has been segmented on the basis of materials, which comprises of biomimetic materials, nano-fibrous materials, composite materials, and nano-composite material.

On the basis of applications, the market is segmented into orthopedics, musculoskeletal and spine, skin/integumentary, cancer, dental, cardiology, urology, neurology, cord blood & cell banking, GI & gynecology, and others.

Major Players in Tissue Engineering Market

Cook, Acelity, Baxter, DePuy Synthes Companies, Medtronic, Zimmer Inc., and Stryker

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Market Highlights:

The Global Tissue Engineering Market has been evaluated to grow at a steady pace and expected to reach at a high growth figures over the reviewing period.

The Global Tissue Engineering Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 17.22% during the forecast period.

Tissue engineering is the use of combination of cells, engineering materials, and suitable biochemical factors to improve or replace biological functions in an efforts to repair damaged tissues and organs.

Neurology segment is one of the fastest growing owing to the increasing research & development and increasing cases of disorder related to nervous system. For instance, in March 2016, In the University of Alabama researchers found a reprogramming factor, which could increase the efficiency of Human induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (HiPSCs) and are generated without destroying the human embryo. These are major factor responsible for the growth of the market during forecast period.

Key Findings:

The global tissue engineering market is expected to reach USD 48,017.5 million by 2022 at CAGR of 17.22%.

Nano-fibrous material segment on the basis of material holds the largest share to reach USD 13,279.2 million by 2022 from USD 4,155.8 million in 2016.

The Americas holds the largest share of tissue engineering market and is projected to reach USD 17,889.6 million by the end of the forecast period.

Asia Pacific is the fastest growing region across the globe and expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.24% during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis:

The global tissue engineering market consists of four regions: the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa.

The Americas dominates the global market, particularly, North America due to growing developments in the field of regeneration surgeries, particularly stem cell research has created new opportunities for the global tissue engineering market. Additionally, continuous technological development methods and the presence of global market leaders contribute to the market growth.

Europe accounts for the second largest market due to availability of funds for research & development activities, and increasing government support for life sciences domain. Furthermore, industries are continuously focusing and upgrading the 3D technology and thereby offering better and enhanced organ and tissue printing methods.

Asia Pacific is the fastest growing market, whose growth is attributed to the improved economic conditions in healthcare domain, the government focus on research & development in healthcare sector. Moreover, increasing adoption of technological development in healthcare resulting in improvement of healthcare facilities expected to drive the market growth during the forecast period.

The Middle East & Africa is expected witness limited growth due to limited access to the healthcare resources and lack of advanced medical facilities and less government encouragement in healthcare sector.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 Report Prologue

2 Market Introduction

2.1 Introduction 13

2.2 Scope Of Study 13

2.3 Research Objective 13

2.4 Assumptions & Limitations 14

2.4.1 Assumptions 14

2.4.2 Limitations 14

2.5 Market Structure 15

3 Research Methodology: Tissue Engineering Market

3.1 Research Process 16

3.2 Market Size Estimation 17

3.2.1 Market Share Analysis 18

3.3 Forecast Model 19

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4 Market Dynamics

4.1 Drivers 20

4.1.1 Reliable Supply Of Functional Tissues 20

4.1.2 Use Of Tissue Engineering Can Replace The Animal Testing Model 20

4.1.3 Approaching Towards Its Cost-Effectiveness 20

4.2 Barriers 21

4.2.1 Shortage Of Donor Organ 21

4.2.2 Scaling Up Of A Specific Cell 21

4.3 Opportunity 21

4.3.1 Growing Geriatric Population Presents Significant Growth Opportunity 21

4.3.2 High Demand Of Tissue Engineering In Cosmetic And Reconstructive Surgery 21

4.4 Mega Trends 22

4.5 Macroeconomic Indicators 22

5 Market Factor Analysis

Continued!

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Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.comUrology Devices Market  Overview

Acknowledging the traction, this market is vibrating with currently; Market Research Future (MRFR) in its recently published study report giving asserts that the global urology devices market gaining further prominence will register a spectacular growth by 2023, growing at a CAGR of 7.1 % during the review period (2017  2023).

The Global Urology Devices Market is growing pervasively, mainly due to the increasing prevalence of disorders associated with the urinary tract system (UTS) and reproductive organs in men.

Increasing occurrences of UTS disorders in women especially alongside the growing incidence of prostate cancer cases are escalating the market growth on the global platform.

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Urology Devices Market  Growth and Analysis

Additional factors substantiating the market growth include the developments of in advance healthcare devices and an increasing number of patients with kidney diseases. Simultaneously, the well-spread awareness about the availability and benefits of these devices such as reduced treatment and recovery time among renal disease patients, are fostering the market growth, fueling the demand for these devices.

Innovation in urology devices alongside the increasing per capita health care expenditures is supplementing the growth of this market to an extent.

On the other hand, factors such as the high cost of urology devices are expected to impede the market growth. Nevertheless, the emergence of many new processes such as Israeli firm Lumenis technologys new stone-striking method  Moses method is providing impetus to the market growth, proving as game changers for urologists.

Urology Devices Market  Key Players

Olympus Corporation (Japan)

Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG (Germany)

Medtronic (US)

C. R. Bard, Inc. (US)

Boston Scientific Corporation (US)

Cook (US)

Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA (Germany)

Stryker (US)

Dornier MedTech (Germany)

NIKKISO CO. LTD (Japan)

HealthTronics, Inc (US)

Urology Devices Market  Segments

MRFR has segmented its analysis into six key dynamics for enhanced understanding.

By Types-Dialysis Equipment, Urinary Stone Treatment Devices (ureteral stents, lithotripsy, and others.), Endoscopy Devices, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Treatment Devices (prostatic stents, catheter ablation, and others.), Urinary Incontinence & Pelvic Organ Prolapsed (sacral neuromodulator, urethral inserts & pessaries, vaginal meshes & slings, and others.) among others.

By Technologies-Minimally Invasive Surgery and Robotic Surgery among others.By Applications -Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, Prostate Cancer, Urinary Stones, and Urinary Incontinence among others.

By End-Users -Hospitals, and Ambulatory Services among others. By Dialysis Equipment-Peritoneal Dialysis, and Haemodialysis among others. By Regions-Europe, North America, APAC and Rest-of-the-World.

Urology Devices Market  Regional Analysis

The North American region is projected to continue with its dominance over the global urology devices market with the largest market share. Heading with the increasing prevalence of prostate cancer, kidney stones, and traumatic injury, among others, the region is estimated to create a significant revenue pocket during the review period (2017-2023).

The European region is another lucrative market for urology devices. Increasing focus on the development of new devices alongside rising government support for R&D activities is contributing to the market growth.

The Asia Pacific region is rapidly emerging as a promising market for urology devices, growing rapidly. Increasing incidents of prostate cancer, kidney stones, and traumatic injuries are fueling market growth.

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Urology Devices Market  Competitive Analysis

The highly competitive market of urology devices appears to be diversified with the presence of a large number of players having a global presence. These players are heavily investing in R&D to develop advanced technologies and are adopting strategic initiatives such as expansion, and product Launch to gain the competitive edge and to sustain in the market.

They compete against each other based on the devices quality, reliability, and cost. Marketers are tapping the growing markets for expansions.

Manufacturers of urology devices create unique solutions to solve the needs and challenges of their customers, working with physicians, nurses and technicians around the world which further helps them to identify unaddressed needs.

Urology Devices Market  Innovation News

September 21, 2018  Boston Scientific Corporation (US), a leading global medical devices manufacturer announced the launch of its kidney stone retrieval device namely LithoVue Empower Device.

This device allows a single urologist to operate both an ureteroscope and a basket simultaneously during the procedure, performed via flexible ureteroscopy.

Turning the two-person procedure into a single-person procedure, providing the surgeon with greater control and minimizing the risks of miscommunication.

Major Points form Table of Content

Chapter 1. Report Prologue

Chapter 2. Market Introduction

Chapter 3. Research Methodology

Chapter 4. Market Dynamics

Chapter 5. Market Factor Analysis

Chapter 6. Global Urology Devices Market, By Type

Chapter 7. Global Urology Devices Market, By Treatment

Chapter 8 Global Urology Devices Market, By End User

Chapter 9. Global Urology Devices Market, By Region

Chapter 10. Company Landscape

Chapter 11. Company Profiles

Chapter 12. MRFR Conclusion

Chapter 13. Appendix

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Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.comby Ray Schultz , Columnist, December 2, 2018

Despite the massive data breach affecting 500 million guests -- one of the biggest such ruptures ever -- Marriott customer data has not turned up on the dark web, Jason Hill, head researcher at CyberInt., reports, according to Financial Times.



That may be the only good news Marriott is about to get. The hotel chain announced the breach early Friday morning, and within hours it was facing a major corporate crisis.

For one thing, its stock price slid 6% on Friday to $115. It could have been worse, but then there was the predictable filing of two class action lawsuits  at last count.

In one, reportedly filed in a Maryland federal court, two attorneys  Ed Claffy of Chicago and Stewart Bell of Charleston, West Virginia  sued as aggrieved customers, using the law firm of Murphy, Falcon & Murphy.

Marriotts failure to employ reasonable and appropriate measures to protect against unauthorized access to confidential consumer data constitutes an unfair act or practice prohibited by Section 5 of the FTC Act, the complaint says.

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In addition, the Blast reports that a $12.5 billion suit was filed by Ben Meiselas of Geragos & Geragos, and local counsel Michael Fuller of Underdog Law.

For the past four years, 500 million customers expecting a comfortable worry-free stay at Marriott were instead exposed to one of the largest digital infestations in history, the complaint states, the Blast continues.

Perhaps even more seriously, the FBI reportedly is probing the breach, as are the attorney generals of four states: New York, Illinois, Connecticut and Maryland.

And, as MediaPost has reported, Senator Ed Markey (D-Massachusetts) has called for comprehensive consumer privacy and data security legislation that requires companies to adhere to strong data security standards, directs them to only collect the data they actually need to service their customer, and creates penalties for companies that fail to meet them.

Still unknown is whether Marriott will face sanctions under the GDPR. Surely, the Marriott database contains data on EU citizens  and fines from that could dwarf anything that will be meted out in the U.S.

Without assessing blame, one has to wonder: how can such large corporations find themselves in this situation? Are their security systems mere playtoys?

We dont yet know the root cause(s) that forced Marriott this week to disclose a four-year-long breach involving the personal and financial information of 500 million guests of its Starwood hotel properties, writes Krebs on Security. But anytime we see such a colossal intrusion go undetected for so long, the ultimate cause is usually a failure to adopt the most important principle in cybersecurity defense that applies to both corporations and consumers: Assume you are compromised.

"Marriott is one of the largest hotel chains in the world, states Hassan Murphy, managing partner at Murphy, Falcon & Murphy, and a member of the plaintiffs steering committee in the breach litigation case against Equifax. That such a corporation would fail to properly safeguard the highly personal and sensitive information of its guests and customers is inexplicable.

Murphy adds: Even more egregious is the fact that Marriott did not discover this breach for nearly four years, and then for months after that discovery failed to tell its customers what had occurred. This conduct constitutes a significant breach of trust and confidence unparalleled in the hospitality industry."

Bringing this closer to home, such disasters could have a dampening effect on email response.

For example, some people will no longer open an email bill from anyone  they will simply call the company, using the number they have had for years, and pay that way, or send a check to the known address, according to anecdotal evidence.

To recap, Marriott determined on November 19 that the breach, exposing data on reservations made on or before September 10 of this year, had occurred. The data on 327 million guests includes such details as name, email address, mailing address, phone number, passport number, Starwood Preferred Guest account information, date of birth, gender, arrival and departure information, reservation date, and communication preferences, Marriott says.

The chain was alerted on September 8 that an attempt had been made to access the Starwood database in the U.S. Security experts determined that unauthorized access to the Starwood network had existed since 2014. In addition, the firm discovered that an unauthorized party had copied and encrypted data from the database.

The affected brands include W Hotels, St. Regis Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Four Points by Sheraton, Westin Hotels & Resorts, Element Hotels and Aloft Hotels.

"We deeply regret this incident happened," states Arne Sorenson, president and chief executive officer. "We fell short of what our guests deserve and what we expect of ourselves. We are doing everything we can to support our guests, and using lessons learned to be better moving forward."

But, to put in perspective, JP Morgan analyst J.P. Greff told Barron that while the timing is unfortunate, our general view is that any damage done to Marriotts brand longer-term will likely be minimal, if at all, as the breach isnt as dire as last years Equifax breach, and the company took quick action, and consumers are growing somewhat numb to these events.by Tanya Gazdik , December 2, 2018

LOS ANGELES  Nissan North America is breaking creative that shows the similarities between updating a classic like Mary Poppins and the longstanding member of its vehicle lineup, the Nissan Altima.

One 60-second video focuses on design while a second video focuses on technology. The spots are on social media and will appear when the movie debuts in theaters Dec. 19.

Nissan had a presence at the global premiere of the movie last week in Hollywood. Executives from the automaker walked the red carpet and attended the screening at TCL Chinese Theater, where the original debuted in 1964.

Jeremy Tucker, vice president, marketing communications and media, Nissan North America, told a small group of reporters who also attended the premiere that aligning with the classic movie is a natural for the brand.

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Its always just really fun to partner with our friends at Disney and tell the stories of our creativity and our focus on innovation and how do we solve problems for our customers and our fans in a very modern world, Tucker said. And thats what brings us to tonight, because sometimes you say what are you doing and why are we here, and what does Nissan have to do at all with Mary Poppins Returns?

Tucker discussed the challenges the automaker faces in selling sedans, alluding to the recent stories of other automakers killing off their car brands in favor of trucks and SUVs.

The reality is, 5 million sedans are sold in America every year, with many customers falling into the millennial demographic, he said. Theres a tremendous opportunity that we see here, and we had to think about what do we do to reimagine the future of the sedan for our fans. What does it mean from a driving perspective, from a technical perspective? How do we take what we love about a sedan, the drive and the iconicness of the Altima, one of our best models and a tremendous nameplate for Nissan, and modernize it, without losing who we are.

Walt Disney had a similar challenge in creating a new version of an iconic movie, he said.

How do you take it to the next level by taking whats loved, but through the lens of technology, through the lens of creativity and through the lens of design, bringing something new and fresh that brings the best of the past with the promise of the future, Tucker said.

That story became the genesis of what we thought we could do to celebrate and engage with fans in a very relevant way. Because relevance is what its all about today from a marketing perspective: meeting customers where theyre at, telling them our unique story, and the story of our partners, finding those who share our values in a moment where it matters.

Both spots show scenes from the movie interspersed with images of the Altima, opening with the line from the movie This is how the impossible becomes possible.

They include Mary Poppins Returns creators Jim Capobianco, animation supervisor, and Mimi Steele, vice president visual effects production, talking about the design and technology that went into the movie, which combines animation with live action.

Ken Lee, program design director, Nissan, talks about how in the same way that filmmakers combine artistry and innovative technology, the automaker has created the impossibly smart Altima.

The automaker also revealed the new 2019 Nissan Murano SUV and refreshed 2019 Nissan Maxima last week at the Los Angeles Auto Show.by Chuck Martin , December 3, 2018

Samsung and Verizon plan to launch the first commercial 5G smartphones into the market during the first half of 2019.

The companies plan to show a proof of concept, powered by the coming Qualcomm Snapdragon Mobile Platform at a technology conference later this week.

The new 5G mobility services offer capacity and download speed significantly faster than todays 4G LTE network.

5G will usher in a new era of mobile connectivity, allowing people to connect to data, experiences and other people in ways never thought possible, stated Brian Higgins, vice president, wireless device and product marketing at Verizon. Samsung and Verizon have made huge gains in bringing 5G commercial services to consumers in several cities. Now, were partnering to create a smartphone to put the power of 5G in the palm of your hand.

Verizon launched a commercial 5G service in Houston, Los Angeles, Indianapolis and Sacramento in October. When the 5G service is live by June 2019, Samsung 5G phone owners will connect via Verizons 5G Ultra Wideband network.

In North America, there will be 250 million subscriptions to 5G, more than half of all mobile subscriptions, by the end of 2024, according to the Ericsson Mobility Report.

Apple does not plan to offer an iPhone that can use the new 5G speeds until at least 2020, according to a report in Bloomberg.by Wayne Friedman , December 3, 2018

TV station group Nexstar Media Group has agreed to buy Tribune Media, another large TV station company, for $4.1 billion in cash.

The deal will give a nearly 16% premium on the stock price that Tribune Media shareholders were paying for the company on November 30 -- $46.50 per share. The agreement also includes outstanding Tribune Media debt, which brings the total to $6.4 billion.

This comes in the wake of a failed Sinclair Broadcast Group $3.9 billion bid earlier this year, struck down by federal regulators and eventually stopped by Tribune Media in August. Sinclair announced an agreement to merge with Tribune in May 2017.

Tribune Media has 42 owned or operated local television stations, reaching about 50 million homes. Its cable network, WGN America, reaches more than 77 million households.

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Nexstar has 174 full-power TV stations and related digital multicast signals reaching 100 markets -- nearly 39% of all U.S. TV households, which is already at the federal regulation limit for a company owning TV stations in the U.S.

Nexstar says it needs to divest certain television stations necessary to comply with regulatory ownership limits and may also divest other assets which it deems to be non-core.

The deal could make Nexstar the biggest owner of U.S. TV stations, topping Sinclair, which currently has 191 stations in 89 markets.

The pact beat out a number of proposed other Tribune pursuers, including a combined deal from mid-size station group Northwest Broadcasting and buyout company Apollo Global Management.

Tribune Medias stock rose 10% on Monday to $44.26; Nexstar was up 2.7% to $84.84.

Media analysts believe there could be more big TV station group deals to come.

Barton Crockett, media analyst at B. Riley FBR, says the deal confirms its belief about TV stations value: We have argued for some time that TV station groups are undervalued, and that M&A can be a road to unearthing that ... We also see a more open road for M&A by Tegna with Nexstar now; we assume its largely out of the running for Cox stations.Recent research has broken new ground in the quest for a type 1 diabetes treatment that generates insulin-making cells. Share on Pinterest New research furthers our understanding of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Scientists from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark and the Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen in Neuherberg, Germany have mapped the signals that determine the destiny of progenitor cells in the pancreas. These immature cells can develop into either islet cells that make insulin or another type of cell. The journal Nature features a paper on the findings. This research reveals that pancreatic progenitor cells bounce around and that their immediate environment, or extracellular matrix, plays a strong role in deciding their fate. We have now been able, says Prof. Henrik Semb, senior author and director of the Institute of Translational Stem Cell Research at Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen, to map the signal that determines whether pancreatic progenitor cells will become endocrine, such as insulin-producing beta cells, or duct cells.

Type 1 diabetes and islet cells Insulin is a hormone that helps cells absorb glucose and use it to make energy. Diabetes develops when the bodys level of blood sugar is too high. This can happen either because there is not enough insulin (type 1 diabetes) or because the cells are unable to use it properly (type 2 diabetes). Figures for 2015 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that around 30.3 million people in the United States had diabetes that year. About 5 percent of them have type 1 diabetes, requiring daily insulin treatment. Type 1 diabetes develops when the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. These cells exist in clusters called islets of Langerhans, which contain several types of cell that make hormones. Those that make insulin are called beta cells. The recent study focused on progenitor cells. These immature cells are early descendants of stem cells. Like stem cells, progenitor cells can become one or more kind of cell. Unlike stem cells, however, they cannot go on dividing and reproducing indefinitely. Also, progenitor cells can mature into a more limited range of cell types than stem cells.

Progenitor cells are constantly on the move Progenitor cells are difficult to study because they do not sit still. They are constantly moving around within the developing pancreas, leading to frequent environmental changes, notes Prof. Semb. He compares the cells to pinballs bouncing around in a machine  their ultimate score is based on the sum of pin encounters. To examine how each progenitor responded to its environment without the interference of other cells, he and his colleagues took progenitors developed from human stem cells and seeded them onto glass slides that contained micropatterns of matrix proteins. Prof. Semb says that the researchers were very surprised by what they discovered. They found that different interactions with components in the extracellular matrix altered the mechanical force state within the progenitor. These forces result from interactions between the extracellular matrix, which is outside the cell, and the actin cytoskeleton, which is within the cell, he adds.Imagine stumbling across a superb startup idea, which is an instant hit with your friends and family alike, apart from being something you are essentially passionate about. But while all that is fun and exciting, there still remains a major factor which needs taking care of.

We are all aware that mere dreams and ideas are not enough to witness our visions come to life. It takes much more than people's admiration of our startup proposal. What it really needs is a startup ecosystem that not only understands and accepts our vision, but also provides us with that initial platform and means to reach out to potential partners and investors who would add value to our business venture.

 MensXP

Well, if that sounds a lot like you, or someone you know, who is chasing after that dream, then you should definitely know about brothers Rohan and Arjun Malhotra, who are literally the answer to almost all of your startup dreams.

Brothers and business partners, Rohan and Arjun set up 'Investopad' back in 2013. It has since turned into one of India's most innovative spaces that is always on the lookout for upcoming startup ventures centred around solving India-centric issues.

 MensXP

Investopad then works to establish a relationship with such enterprises from the stage of ideation, and observes the evolution in the entrepreneurs' mindset and capabilities over time.

Now, the Malhotra brothers may have different temperaments but share a lot in common otherwise. Both the brothers started school at St. Columbus in New Delhi, went to attend boarding at Malvern College, and even graduated from the same university, that is University of St. Andrews!

Their areas of study also remained the same - finance, though the specialisations differed. Yet, the brothers told The Economic Times that it is the difference in their personalities and experiences that make them the perfect team!

 MensXP

However, initially when they started out, they found that one of the major pain points for such early-stage startups and entrepreneurs at large, was the availability of workspace. It was only then that Rohan and Arjun set up Investopad and began opening it up for selective enterprises that had the potential of bagging investments in the future.

Stating that Investopad is all about providing budding entrepreneurs and startups with an environment that is collaborative rather than competitive, Arjun in the interview with The Economic Times said that, For instance, if there is a company in the telecom space that is creating a new technology, we can bring in people at a CXO level within the telecom industry as informal advisors to them.

 MensXP

Thus, with Investopad, the brothers had devised the perfect means to act as a medium between the startups and industry leaders. The brothers have also invested personal capital in companies that excited them at an early stage. If that does not happen, they aim to help such emerging businesses get noticed and bag investments from those who are looking to invest in such projects.

For Rohan and Arjun, at Investopad, it's all about building greater opportunities by enabling innovation and manifestations. In a recent interview with MensXP, Rohan said that, to some extent they look at Investopad as a talent agency, where they try to provide a bunch of services as per the requirements of emerging startups and entrepreneurs.

Learn more about this cool venture capital firm that's trying to give flight to a million dreams in new India, by placing their own trust and capital in others' ideas of positive, development and growth centric business models, from the founders themselves.

Rohan Malhotra and Arjun Malhotra have been nominated in the category of 'Icon of Newhood' in Times Prime presents MensXP 'Icons of Newhood', to be held on 4th May 2019, at The Lalit, New Delhi.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 3)  President Rodrigo Duterte said he uses marijuana to keep up with the grueling schedules in meetings with other heads of states.

"It's a killing activity. And I think  my age, ako, hindi masiyado, kasi nagma-marijuana ako eh para magising [me, not much because I use marijuana to keep awake]," Duterte said Monday during the conferment of awards on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) National Organizing Council officials and personnel.

Duterte later clarified in a chance interview with reporters that he was only joking about using marijuana.

"Of course it was a joke. Pero nobody can stop me from just doing my style. Minsan sabi ninyo mysoginist ako, magbiro ako ng ganun (like that). That's my style. It's too late to change. If I want to joke, I will joke," he said. "Ngayon, kung maniwala kayo, eh g*** kayo. (If you believe it, then you're dumb.)"

Senator Koko Pimentel also said in a text message that Duterte told him during the conferment of the Quezon Service Cross for the late Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago that "he has never touched marijuana his entire life."

In his speech, Duterte was complaining of the tight schedules in previous meetings, such as in his visits to Thailand, India and Papua New Guinea, saying in Tagalog he "could not handle this."

"Hindi talaga kaya, nung ako dito. I just never, I remember I just came in from nowhere, then kinabukasan umpisa na. I think I was in India. Susmaryosep, walang tulog. And the more the crescendo becomes faster, mas lalong hindi ka nakakatulog kasi nga hinahabaol ka ng babasahin," Duterte said.

[Translation: I couldn't take it when I was there. I just never, I remember I just came in from nowhere, then the next day it started. I think I was in India. Oh my God, I had no sleep. And the more the crescendo becomes faster, the more that you wouldn't be able to sleep because you are catching up on readings.]

Duterte suggested that only the "important, the most urgent, the most immediate" should be tackled in summits, while other matters should be left to a technical working group or the "lower echelons."

The President is known for his tough stance on drugs and has waged a bloody war against it, drawing criticisms from human rights groups. According to government data, close to 5,000 drug suspects have been killed in legitimate police operations.

Duterte is against the recreational marijuana, but is open to legalizing medical marijuana.

The possession and use of marijuana is illegal in the Philippines and can be punished by up to life imprisonment and a 10 million fine.

CNN Philippines' Ina Andolong, Joyce Ilas and Xave Gregorio contributed to this story.MILFORD  A request for extra mayo at an area market led to the arrest of a New York man on Sunday.

According to Milford Police, officers responded to Food Fare, 1063 East Broadway around 5:30 p.m. Sunday on the report of a breach of peace incident. An investigation led to the arrest of Patrick Kelly, 34, of New York. Kelly is accused of a smacking a store worker in the face after being refused an extra side of mayonnaise.The legal counsel for the state Senate Republicans was fired after he told leadership he removed, without authorization, tens of thousands of dollars from a PAC intended to support candidates, the Senate GOP leader said Monday.

Michael Cronin was terminated Monday and has turned himself in to the Chief States Attorney, according to Len Fasano, the Senate minority leader, R-North Haven. Cronin worked as a counsel for the caucus for nearly 20 years, his Linked In account states, and was promoted to chief counsel in 2018.

It hurts, said Fasano, speaking to reporters at the Capitol Monday afternoon. Its shocking.

Cronin was sole signatory for the Senate Republican Leadership PAC, one of three PACs Senate Republicans use. He was the only person with access to the PACs bank account.

Senate Republican staff noticed that something was wrong when vendors started calling last week saying they were not paid for campaign-related services, Fasano said. A bounced check was also returned to their office.

Fasano started asking Cronin, a 55-year-old West Hartford resident, about the unpaid bills in a phone conversation on Friday, he said. Cronin reassured Fasano, but when Cronin would not provide the documentation that Fasano requested, Fasano demanded an in-person meeting.

The pair met at Fasanos office in New Haven at 7:45 a.m. Monday morning, and Cronin confessed what he had done. Fasano would not specify what Cronin used the money he took for.

Ross Garber, an attorney representing Cronin, said Cronin takes full responsibility for his actions.

He voluntarily reported them to Senate Republican leadership and to the Chief States Attorneys Office, said Garber, who was chief counsel to former Gov. John G. Rowland. He is cooperating with authorities and is committed to ensuring that all donor funds are accounted for and fully restored.

The Chief States Attorneys Office declined to comment Monday afternoon, spokesman Mark Dupuis said.

Senate Republicans were unsure exactly how much money Cronin took from the PAC Monday. Fasano said a detailed audit of which bills were paid and which were not would be necessary to determine the full amount. But Fasano said Cronin only removed money from the account in 2018.

Filings by the Senate Republican Leadership Committee show that as of Oct. 31, the PAC had raised or previously had on hand a total of $177,832, and spent $113,265 on this years campaigns, leaving $64,556 on hand. Expenditures included, for example, $7,579 for mailings for Rep. Melissa Ziobron, who fell short in her bid for a Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Art Linares.

Senate Republican campaigns were not impacted by Cronins actions.

(The candidates) got the benefit of the resources because it was work performed, said Fasano. Its the vendors who are out, who we are calling and explaining what happened. Well make good to them as well.

Cronin made $175,000 a year in his legislative position, state payroll data shows. He also is a board member on the Connecticut Judicial Branch Committee on Guardians Ad Litem and is vice chairman of the Connecticut State Marshal Commission, according to his LinkedIn page.

emunson@hearstmediact.com; Twitter: @emiliemunsonChina's Sub Force Is Growing More Powerful. This Is What the US Navy Needs to Do to Stay AheadA $10 billion lawsuit brought against Iran for allegedly supplying high-powered explosive devices that killed and wounded U.S. troops in Iraq began Monday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.

Wounded service members and Gold Star families filed the suit over high-powered roadside bombs called "Explosively Formed Penetrators" (EFPs), which killed a number of service members.

Patrick Farr, father of Army Spc. Clay Farr, said, "Iran was never held accountable on the battlefield" for the explosive that killed his son in February 2006.

Iran "got away with murder, pure and simple," Farr said in a release from Osen LLC, the Hackensack, New Jersey, law firm representing the plaintiffs. "The trial won't change any of that, but I hope it will help set the record straight so that our leaders learn from past mistakes and come to recognize the full magnitude of what Iran did to my son Clay and his fellow soldiers who were serving in Iraq."

The trial began days after the State and Defense Departments displayed -- for the second time in less than a year -- components of missiles, drones and other weapons that Iran allegedly sold or supplied to proxies. The items were showcased as evidence of Tehran's "malign influence" in the region, officials said.

"The new weapons we are disclosing today illustrate the scale of Iran's destructive role across the region," U.S. Special Representative for Iran and senior State Department adviser Brian Hook said last week during a news conference at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C.

In a statement, Gary M. Osen, managing partner at Osen LLC, said the trial before U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly is "a critical first step in the wider effort to hold Iran accountable for targeting U.S. troops in Iraq for almost a decade with impunity."

With testimony from victims, and documentary evidence, Osen said the trial would show that Iran "conducted a calculated and coordinated campaign to murder and maim U.S. service members in Iraq and drive the United States out of the Middle East."

He said the purpose of the suit is "to lay out in detail how Iran developed its network of proxies in Iraq and used it to carry out terror attacks exclusively intended to target Americans and our coalition partners."

At his 2015 Senate confirmation hearing to become chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Marine Gen. Joseph Dunford did not dispute the assertion of Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Arkansas, that as many as 500 U.S. troops had been killed by Iranian-supplied EFPs in Iraq.

"I know the total number of soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines that were killed by Iranian activities, and the number has been recently quoted as about 500," Dunford said. "We weren't always able to attribute the casualties we had to Iranian activity, although many times we suspected it was Iranian activity even though we didn't necessarily have the forensics to support that."

Iran does not recognize the court's jurisdiction and is not represented by a defense team for the trial. Kollar-Kotelly previously ruled that Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs was properly served by the plaintiffs in the case Karcher et al v. Islamic Republic of Iran and the trial could proceed before her without a jury.

The lawsuit seeks $10 billion in damages, but if or when any of the plaintiffs and families might receive compensation is open to question. The suit was brought under the terrorism exception of the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act, which has been used to sue state sponsors of terrorism.

On its website, Osen LLC has noted that obtaining a judgment against a state sponsor of terrorism is "not nearly as difficult as enforcing and collecting on it."

-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.comThe nation prepared Sunday for the state funeral and tributes to the late President George H.W. Bush, with the U.S. military taking a leading role in honoring the last commander-in-chief to serve in World War II.

The military's role will have particular significance for the events, the Bush family noted as it shared a quote from the late president on lessons he learned in the Navy, which served as a guide for the rest of his life.

"In the Navy, we young pilots all prayed for CAVU -- Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited. But, you see, that is where my life is now. Thanks to my family and my friends, my life is CAVU," Bush said on his 80th birthday.

In 2009, at the commissioning of his namesake Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, the George H.W. Bush, the former president said, "My Navy days taught me the true meaning of friendship and of freedom. And looking back, I love my time serving in the Navy, the three years, aboard the San Jacinto, CVL 30, flying in Torpedo Squadron 51. And they made a man out of a scared kid."

As has been done for the passing of previous presidents, the military's participation will include bands, family escorts, color guards, salute batteries, honor cordons and casket bearers, according to Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region (JFH-NCR).

JFH-NCR has set up a task force to coordinate the ceremonies in Washington, D.C., and in Houston, where Bush died Friday at age 94.

The task force will consist of about 4,000 military and civilian personnel from all branches of the U.S. armed forces, including Reserve and National Guard components. The task force is responsible for ceremonial and civil affairs support in the tributes to Bush, a naval aviator who earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for actions in the Pacific in World War II.

Related: 'Fair Winds And Following Seas, Mr. President,' Former Pres. Bush Remembered

"We, the men and women of the Department of Defense, are honored and proud to support the Bush family, and will do so with the utmost respect," said Army Maj. Gen. Michael L. Howard, commander of JFH-NCR and the Military District of Washington.

"This state funeral is a culmination of years of planning and rehearsal to ensure the support the military renders President Bush is nothing less than a first-class tribute," Howard said in a statement Saturday.

JFH-NCR said the military's part in the events will be conducted in three stages. The first will involve ceremonies in Houston. Stage II will focus on ceremonies in Washington, D.C. And Stage III will involve ceremonies for Bush's interment in Houston.

The casket bearing Bush's body is expected to arrive in Washington on Monday evening to lie in state in the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol for public viewing until Wednesday morning, when a funeral is scheduled at Washington National Cathedral. The Bush family and the casket will return to Houston for the interment following the funeral.

President Donald Trump has declared Wednesday a national day of mourning, during which flags will be lowered to half-staff on all public buildings and military installations. All federal agencies also will be closed Wednesday in a "mark of respect" to the late president, according to an executive order from the White house.

Despite his past feuds with the Bush family, Trump on Saturday called the late president a "truly wonderful man," and said he would attend the funeral Wednesday.

-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com.UNESCO: 'La Romeria an Intangible Cultural Heritage'

Jalisco, Mexico - The annual pilgrimage in honor of the Virgin of Zapopan was added on Friday to the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage.

Every year on October 12, more than two million Catholics walk about 9 kilometers from the Guadalajara Cathedral to the Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan accompanied by a 34 cm figure of the Virgin of Zapopan, an event known as La Romeria.





The virgin is believed to have saved the inhabitants of Jalisco from a series of epidemics and floods in the 17th century and soon after became the local patron against storms, the websitereported.

"The annual celebration of La Romeria on 12 October, honoring the image of the Virgin of Zapopan, is a tradition that dates back to 1734," UNESCO said in a statement announcing the inclusion of 'La Romeria' on the list.

"The day marks the final phase of the annual ritual cycle popularly known as 'The Carrying of the Virgin,' which begins in May and encompasses many community and liturgical activities," it continued.

More than 35,000 dancers belonging to a range of indigenous groups also participate in the pilgrimage, and music and fireworks add to the festive atmosphere on the city's streets.

Zapopan Mayor Pablo Lemus told the news agency EFE earlier last week that he was confident that the pilgrimage would be included on the UNESCO list because all local residents as well as many other people across the country banded together to support the cause.

The process began three years ago when the municipal governments of Zapopan and Guadalajara and the state government wrote letters to UNESCO in support of the pilgrimage's inclusion on the intangible cultural heritage list.

Federal authorities, including the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) and the Secretariat of Foreign Affairs (SRE), also supported the inclusion bid.

After a long wait, UNESCO, the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization, announced the inclusion of the Romeria on its prestigious list during a meeting in the island nation of Mauritius. A small group of danzantes zapopanos, or Zapopan dancers, dressed in elaborate pre-Hispanic costumes performed after the announcement was made.

UNESCO also noted that La Romeria plays an important role in bringing different sectors of the community together.

"Throughout the year, the planning of the activities depends on the interaction of different communities, helping them to renew and reinforce their social ties. Thanks to the community's support for the practice year after year, La Romeria is considered one of the most popular and strongly rooted traditions in west Mexico," it said.

Among other traditions and customs included on the list were Reggae music of Jamaica, traditional Korean wrestling, and a traditional form of Sri Lankan string puppet drama.The Defense Department has identified another U.S. Army soldier killed in the Nov. 27 enemy bomb explosion that killed two other soldiers and an Air Force airman in Afghanistan.

Sgt. Jason Mitchell McClary, 24, died Dec. 2 in Landstuhl, Germany, from injuries sustained by an improvised explosive device in Andar District, Ghazni Province, according to a Dec. 3 Pentagon press release.

McClary, of Export, Pennsylvania, was among three U.S. service members, as well as an American contractor, who initially were wounded in the blast.

The incident remains under investigation, the release states.

Army Capt. Andrew Patrick Ross, Army Sgt. 1st Class Eric Michael Emond and Air Force Staff Sgt. Dylan J. Elchin were killed by the explosion.

McClary was assigned to 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, at Fort Carson, Colorado, the release states.

"The Rock battalion expresses its deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and friends tragically affected by the loss of Sgt. Jason McClary. He epitomizes what it is to be a professional, a warrior and a soldier," Lt. Col. Christopher Roberts, commander of 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, said in a separate press release from Fort Carson. "Sgt. McClary served honorably as an up-armored vehicle gunner for the Attack Company. His memory and contributions will never be forgotten."

McClary entered the Army on Jan. 21, 2014. He deployed to Iraq from May 2016 to January 2017. This most recent deployment to Afghanistan began in April of this year, the Fort Carson release states.

His awards and decorations include two Purple Hearts, Army Commendation Medal with Valor, Army Commendation Medal (Combat), Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Combat Infantryman Badge and the Air Assault Badge.

-- Matthew Cox can be reached at matthew.cox@military.com.A tornado tore through a section of Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, homeport of the Atlantic Fleet's submarines, on the Georgia coast Sunday, slightly injuring five people but causing no damage to the ballistic missile nuclear submarines or Trident missiles, base officials said Monday.

The tornado's force was concentrated on a pier facility called Site Six, south of where the submarines are docked, said base public affairs officer Scott Bassett.

Light poles and trees were downed, vehicles were damaged and the power of the tornado was such that it tore the bark off trees left standing, he said.

Nonetheless, Capt. Chester Parks, base commander, told FirstCoastNews.com, "All submarines here at Kings Bay are safe and secure. No submarines sustained any damage."

Bassett said eight Trident submarines are assigned to Kings Bay. He said some were at the facility when the tornado struck at about 3:15 p.m. Sunday, but could not immediately say how many.

The National Weather Center rated the storm an EF1 (Enhanced Fujita scale), a tornado generating winds of 86 mph to 110 mph.

Bassett said five people suffered minor injuries, mostly cuts and bruises, and were treated and released at a local hospital. The five included three sailors, a civilian employee, and a dependent of one of the sailors.

The Kings Bay tornado was one of about two dozen reported Sunday from the Great Plains to the Southeast, according to the National Weather Center.

The storm system was responsible for at least four tornadoes that caused extensive damage in Oklahoma and killed one person in southwestern Missouri.

-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com.The Marine Corps recently called on defense firms to submit proposals for a new lightweight body armor plate that's about 38 percent lighter than the current plates used to protect Marines from rifle fire on the battlefield.

Marine Corps Systems Command is seeking proposals from industry for procurement of a "maximum of 680,706, and a minimum of 60,000, lightweight plates," according to a Nov. 29 release announcing the request for proposal.

The new plates will be fielded in addition to the enhanced small arms protective insert (ESAPI) plates now in use to give commanders a lighter option for low-intensity threat environments.

"We expect the plates to be at least 38 percent lighter than the ESAPI, which will significantly increase the mobility of Marines on the battlefield," said Nick Pierce, team lead for individual armor team at Systems Command's Program Manager Infantry Combat Equipment.

A medium-sized ESAPI plate weighs about 5.5 pounds.

In August, Systems Command assessed the defense industry's capabilities for making plates to supplement the ESAPI plate and provide sufficient protection for most combat environments, the release states. It held industry days in October and met with 12 companies to receive feedback on the draft solicitation documents.

All proposals are due in March 2019, and a contract is expected to be awarded in July 2019, according to the release. Initial fielding could happen as early as fiscal 2020, officials said.

"This, along with other recent initiatives such as the Plate Carrier Gen III, are part of a holistic effort to modernize the personal protective equipment set to give Marines better, lighter, more effective gear," Pierce said.

The Corps awarded a $62 million contract in late September to New Jersey-based Vertical Protective Apparel LLC to produce and deliver up to 225,886 Plate Carrier Generation IIIs.

The new plate carrier design features less material to make them lighter than the current carriers. They also are made from a laminated laser-cut material, which reduces water absorption.

The new carriers come in eight sizes and offer better ballistic protection compared with current designs, according to the release.

-- Matthew Cox can be reached at matthew.cox@military.com.This article by Alison Buckholtz originally appeared on the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) website.

Lauren Hope is a self-described "military history nerd" who never imagined that she'd be able to transform her interest in vintage buttons and insignia into a business.

But this Army spouse-turned-jewelry-designer now fashions custom-made cufflinks, tie clips, earrings, necklaces, and brooches from old uniform pieces that others no longer have a use for. As her business, Hope Design Ltd., has grown, she launched the website ShopMilitary.org and hashtag #ShopMilitary to encourage customers to support a wide range of military spouse and veteran-owned initiatives. Hope, 34, started making jewelry as a child, back when the only materials she had access to were dried macaroni noodles, glue, and string. After she met her husband and his best friend - both West Point graduates with a passion for overlooked elements of military history - they started visiting junk shops and antique shows to track down memorabilia that corroborated some of the tales they'd uncovered. One of the biggest thrills, Hope remembers, was finding a gold Air Force button. That's because most Air Force buttons are silver - the gold ones were only worn from 1947 to 1949. At that time, the fledgling service used the same materials at the other military branches while leaders waited for their unique oxidized silver buttons to be produced. "When I find a treasure like that, it's a snapshot of history," she says.

Lauren Hope's handmade jewelry re-purpose vintage military buttons and insignia. (Courtesy of Lauren Hope)

Hope also searches for "sweetheart jewelry," pieces that were purchased by World War II servicemen for girlfriends and wives back home. Those who served in World War II "are a passing generation, and their stories are being lost," she says. "I collect and restore those pieces so I can keep the stories alive for the military community."

One treasure with special meaning for her is a heart-shaped locket, tarnished and scratched, sold to her by an antique dealer for $2. She cleaned and shined it until the silver gleamed and the inscription from the soldier to his fiancee was legible: "To my sweetheart, Feb 14, 1943." She then sold it to another military history aficionado so she could afford to further her passion in restoring sweetheart jewelry.

Although much of the jewelry that Hope makes comes from commissions - including many from Gold Star Families who want to wear something from their loved one's uniform to feel closer to them - she sells ready-made pieces through her website, hopedesignltd.com, and on Etsy. The demand has been so great that she recently hired two military spouses near her home in Fort Leavenworth, Kan., to help with orders. She still makes all of the jewelry herself to maintain the "personal connection" that's important to her.

"Each piece has its own story and its own meaning, and when I can know the person in the military community it goes out to, it makes my heart happy," she says. "Especially with the Gold Star Families I work with, I feel like I'm helping that person be remembered. The sense of pride that these pieces are worn with is not lost on me."

Since Hope started selling her creations in 2013, she has met many other military spouse and veteran entrepreneurs managing their own businesses. To help them find their target markets and give consumers a way to support military-affiliated ventures, she launched a social media campaign called #ShopMilitary. The website ShopMilitary.org compiles and links to businesses participating in the effort.

"For people who want to support the military, this is a much more effective thing to do than putting a sign in your yard," Hope says.

In building the #ShopMilitary initiative, Hope relied on research from Hiring Our Heroes and other studies that have delved into the issue of military retention rates. Since lack of financial stability for spouses is a reason that servicemembers leave the military, she believes that strengthening spouses' ability to build careers can contribute to higher numbers of individuals remaining in the service. She and other #ShopMilitary participants are now working with several civilian companies to help businesses identify as military spouse-led.

As Hope's business and the #ShopMilitary effort gain momentum - recent photos of Second Lady Karen Pence wearing a Hope Design brooch have generated considerable attention - Hope finds herself busier than ever. It's a good problem to have, she acknowledges: "Military spouses have the innate ability to turn stress into just another adventure, so we're having fun with it."

This article, She Transforms Vintage Military Insignia into Art While Boosting Other Businesses," originally appeared on the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) website. MOAA is the nation's largest and most influential association of military officers.Select Mineral List Type Standard Detailed Strunz Dana Chemical Elements

Detailed Mineral List:  'Albite-Anorthite Series' Reference: Fitz, Tom (2011) Granitic, gabbroic and ultramafic rocks of the Mellen Intrusive Complex in northern Wisconsin, Institute on Lake Superior Geology, 57th Annual Meeting, Ashland, WI, vol 57 (2): 163 - 184.  Anorthite Formula: Ca(Al 2 Si 2 O 8 ) Reference: Klewin, Kenneth, James Olmsted and Karl Seifert; 1989, "Rock types and relationships of the Mellen Igneous Complex - a one day field trip to the Keweenawan of the Mellen, Wisconsin Area" Proceedings, 35th Meeting, Institute on Lake Superior Geology, Vol. 2, p. C1 - C-15.  Enstatite Formula: MgSiO 3 Reference: Klewin, Kenneth, James Olmsted and Karl Seifert; 1989, "Rock types and relationships of the Mellen Igneous Complex - a one day field trip to the Keweenawan of the Mellen, Wisconsin Area" Proceedings, 35th Meeting, Institute on Lake Superior Geology, Vol. 2, p. C1 - C-15.  Forsterite Formula: Mg 2 SiO 4 Reference: Klewin, Kenneth, James Olmsted and Karl Seifert; 1989, "Rock types and relationships of the Mellen Igneous Complex - a one day field trip to the Keweenawan of the Mellen, Wisconsin Area" Proceedings, 35th Meeting, Institute on Lake Superior Geology, Vol. 2, p. C1 - C-15.  'Orthopyroxene Subgroup' Reference: Fitz, Tom (2011) Granitic, gabbroic and ultramafic rocks of the Mellen Intrusive Complex in northern Wisconsin, Institute on Lake Superior Geology, 57th Annual Meeting, Ashland, WI, vol 57 (2): 163 - 184.  'Serpentine Subgroup' Formula: D 3 [Si 2 O 5 ](OH) 4 D= Mg, Fe, Ni, Mn, Al, Zn Reference: Fitz, Tom (2011) Granitic, gabbroic and ultramafic rocks of the Mellen Intrusive Complex in northern Wisconsin, Institute on Lake Superior Geology, 57th Annual Meeting, Ashland, WI, vol 57 (2): 163 - 184.

List of minerals arranged by Dana 8th Edition classification Group 51 - NESOSILICATES Insular SiO 4 Groups Only Insular SiO 4 Groups Only with all cations in octahedral [6] coordination  Forsterite 51.3.1.2 Mg 2 SiO 4 Group 65 - INOSILICATES Single-Width,Unbranched Chains,(W=1) Single-Width Unbranched Chains, W=1 with chains P=2  Enstatite 65.1.2.1 MgSiO 3 Unclassified Minerals, Rocks, etc.  'Albite-Anorthite Series' -  Anorthite - Ca(Al 2 Si 2 O 8 )  'Orthopyroxene Subgroup' -  'Serpentine Subgroup' - D 3 [Si 2 O 5 ](OH) 4 D= Mg, Fe, Ni, Mn, Al, Zn

Regional Geology

The Rearing Pond Intrusion is part of the 1.1 billion year old Mellen Complex. It consists largely of melagabbro, troctolite and peridotite. This site is on a particular set of outcrops of this relatively small pluton. The basal peridotite layer is commonly serpentinized.

This geological map and associated information on rock units at or nearby to the coordinates given for this locality is based on relatively small scale geological maps provided by various national Geological Surveys. This does not necessarily represent the complete geology at this locality but it gives a background for the region in which it is found.

Click on geological units on the map for more information. Click here to view full-screen map on Macrostrat.org

Rearing Pond Age: Mesoproterozoic (1000 - 1600 Ma) Stratigraphic Name: Rearing Pond Description: Olivine gabbro, gabbro, quartz gabbro--Mostly medium- to coarse-grained olivine-bearing gabbro in which both olivine and some plagioclase have cumulus textures. Grades to gabbro without olivine and to quartz-bearing gabbro. Comments: Midcontinent rift province; intrusion; rift basin Lithology: Major:: {olivine gabbro} Reference: Cannon, W.F., L.G. Woodruff, S.W. Nicholson, C.A. Hedgman, and R.D. Barber-Delach. Digital Bedrock Geologic Map of the Ashland and Northern Part of the Ironwood 30' x 60' Quadrangles, Wisconsin and Michigan. U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 99-546. [162] Mesoproterozoic volcanic rocks Age: Mesoproterozoic (1000 - 1600 Ma) Comments: Mid-Continent Rift Lithology: Bimodal volcanic rocks Reference: Chorlton, L.B. Generalized geology of the world: bedrock domains and major faults in GIS format: a small-scale world geology map with an extended geological attribute database. doi: 10.4095/223767. Geological Survey of Canada, Open File 5529. [154] Mellen Intrusive complex; Olivine gabbro Age: Mesoproterozoic (1000 - 1600 Ma) Stratigraphic Name: Mellen Intrusive Complex Comments: Original map source: Cannon, W.F., Kress, T.H., Sutphin, D.M., Morey, G.B., Meints, Joyce, and Barber-Delach, Robert, 1997, Digital Geologic Map and mineral deposits of the Lake Superior Region, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan: USGS Open-File Report 97-455 (version 3, Nov. 19 Lithology: Major:{gabbro} Reference: Horton, J.D., C.A. San Juan, and D.B. Stoeser. The State Geologic Map Compilation (SGMC) geodatabase of the conterminous United States. doi: 10.3133/ds1052. U.S. Geological Survey Data Series 1052. [133]

Data and map coding provided by Macrostrat.org, used under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License

References

Sort by Year (asc) Year (desc) Author (A-Z) Author (Z-A)

Klewin, Kenneth, James Olmsted and Karl Seifert (1989) Rock types and relationships of the Mellen Igneous Complex - a one day field trip to the Keweenawan of the Mellen, Wisconsin: Proceedings 35th Institute on Lake Superior Geology: Vol. 2: C1 - C-15. Fitz, Tom (2011) Granitic, gabbroic and ultramafic rocks of the Mellen Intrusive Complex in northern Wisconsin, Institute on Lake Superior Geology, 57th Annual Meeting, Ashland, WI, vol 57 (2): 163 - 184.Prices in Michigan continue to drop to the point that the state is home to some of the cheapest gas in the nation as some stations are selling a gallon for as low as $1.75 as of Monday morning, Dec. 3.

GasBuddy reports that three gas stations in Mason were selling a gallon of self-serve unleaded gasoline for $1.75 as of 9 a.m. Monday morning. Patrick DeHaan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, says on Twitter that this $1.75 per gallon figure is among some of the cheapest in the country.

The website reports that as of Monday morning, the average cost for a gallon of unleaded self-serve gasoline in Michigan is going for $2.27. While about 20 cents cheaper than the national average, this figure still doesn't even have the Great Lakes State in the top 10 for the lowest prices in the U.S.

CHEAP GAS! Sub-$2/gal gas hits 27 states as the national average plummets to its lowest level since 2017: #gasprices pic.twitter.com/vcjcIlFSZB  Patrick DeHaan  (@GasBuddyGuy) December 3, 2018

Oil in rally mode as OPEC, Canada look to trim production. It's been hard to predict when prices in MI/IN/OH/IL will go up, but it appears poised to be sometime this week.  Patrick DeHaan  (@GasBuddyGuy) December 3, 2018

--

One month ago, prices in Michigan were going for about 50 cents higher at $2.72 per gallon. This massive drop in gas prices in Michigan and a large chunk of the U.S. is thanks to oil prices continuing to decline and crude inventories increasing for 10 consecutive weeks.

See below for a rundown of prices across the state as of Monday morning:

Ann Arbor: $2.37

Benton Harbor: $2.14

Metro Detroit: $2.35

Flint: $2.20

Grand Rapids-Muskegon-Holland: $2.12

Jackson: $2.13

Lansing-East Lansing: $2.16

Marquette: $2.46

Saginaw-Bay City-Midland: $2.15

Traverse City: $2.35

--BURBANK, CA -- Elizabeth Goss, a housewife from Pleasant Ridge, Mich. returns to "Jeopardy" Monday night to defend her crown as the reigning champion. The mother of six narrowly won her game last Friday to claim the title.

She brought home a prize of $4,799 and hopes to add more to her winnings in Monday night's game. You can watch that episode at the following times:

In the Detroit area at 7:30 p.m. on WDIV.

In the Lansing area at 7:30 p.m. on WILX.

In the Flint area at 7 p.m. on WNEM.

In the Grand Rapids area at 10:30 p.m. on WMMT.

You can also find your local station by entering you zip code on the "Jeopardy" website.ANN ARBOR, MI - The Huron River Watershed Council, Washtenaw County Health Department and city of Ann Arbor are inviting the public to learn more about an emerging environmental problem.

A community information session on PFAS and the health of the Huron River will take place 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, at Washtenaw Community College's Towsley Auditorium.

The auditorium is inside the Morris J. Lawrence Building at 4800 E. Huron River Drive, just outside Ann Arbor.

The meeting is free and open to the public.

A panel of state, county, city and Watershed Council representatives is expected to present information about PFAS in the Huron River, followed by time for audience questions and answers.

The presence of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances known as PFAS in the Huron River has been a growing concern.

The so-called "forever chemicals" are linked to cancer and other health conditions.

Ann Arbor is spending more than $1 million on improvements at the city's water treatment plant to try to better filter out PFAS from the Huron River water that the city draws for drinking water.

PFAS is an acronym that represents a family of more than 3,000 similar contaminants.

An MLive investigation has found Michigan businesses are discharging high levels of PFAS that move into the state's waterways on a daily basis, and manufacturing sources are sending one version of PFAS at up to 20,000 times the allowed amount into wastewater systems that discharge it into the state's lakes and rivers, ultimately threatening drinking water supplies for millions of people.

There are thousands of PFAS compounds that have been used in various products for decades, Brian Steglitz, the city's water treatment plant manger, told the City Council in September.

"They're used in a lot of products that we use every day: non-stick cookware, stain-resistant coatings, fire-fighting foam and waterproofing," he said, adding they're very stable and do not degrade very rapidly in the environment.

Steglitz said analytical methods for detection are available for only 24 of the compounds right now.

The city has detected two types of PFAS -- perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) -- in its water.

The maximum level of PFOA and PFOS detected in the city's drinking water in 2017 was 15 parts per trillion, which city officials note is below the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's lifetime exposure health advisory level of 70 ppt set in 2016. But there are new recommended levels of 7 ppt for PFOS and 11 ppt for PFOA proposed by the federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.

Neither advisory level is an enforceable regulatory standard at this point, but based on the recently released ATSDR study, city officials believe stricter regulations may be coming.

PFAS was first detected in Ann Arbor's drinking water at 43 ppt in March 2014 after the EPA required larger systems to test for six types of the unregulated compounds. The chemicals -- used in both consumer products and industrial functions -- have links to cancer, liver damage, birth defects and autoimmune diseases.

After the initial testing in 2014, Ann Arbor did not conduct PFAS testing of its water supply again until March 2016. The city switched to monthly testing starting in October 2016.

Steglitz said in September the highest level of PFOS and PFOA detected in the city's drinking water to date was 43 ppt in 2014.

The average level of those two chemicals was 7.2 ppt in 2017, and 3.2 in 2018 from January through August.

"You can see our average PFOS plus PFOA levels have reduced to about half since we've been implementing the new GAC," Steglitz said, referring to the city's new granular activated carbon filters.

High levels of PFAS found in the Huron River and its chain of lakes have triggered recent health advisory warnings to not eat fish from the river or ingest any foam from the river.

They also have raised questions about whether humans should be eating deer in areas where there's PFAS contamination.

"PFAS have been found throughout Michigan and in the Huron River watershed," the Watershed Council notes. "PFAS are associated with a number of health risks when they accumulate in the human body over time and when they are highly concentrated in food and water."

After it was revealed that a Wixom manufacturing company was an ongoing source of PFAS contamination in the Huron River, Ann Arbor area lawmakers urged Gov. Rick Snyder in late September to take action to shut down the plant's discharge of harmful chemicals.

Adept Plastics/Tribar Manufacturing announced in early October it would be adding temporary water filters at its Wixom plant to address the PFAS concerns, followed by a permanent water-cleansing system to reduce the discharge to below 12 ppt for PFOS and PFOA.Puerto Vallarta Celebrates Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Every year during the first 12 days of December the streets of Puerto Vallarta come alive as the faithful make their way through the city in traditional 'Peregrinaciones' (pilgrimages). The celebrations come to a joyful end on December 12 with the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Known in Spanish as Dia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe, this important religious and social festival commemorates the miraculous appearance of the Virgin of Guadalupe to the Indian peasant Juan Diego on December 12, 1531.

According to legend, the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe was imprinted on the cloak of Juan Diego, and to this day it is on display in Mexico City at the Basilica of Guadalupe which was constructed at the site of the miraculous appearance.





During this annual celebration, hundreds of local businesses, unions, neighborhoods, and organizations converge and participate in the pilgrimage to Puerto Vallarta's Cathedral, also known as the Church of Our Lady Of Guadalupe. This unique structure is a famous landmark in its own right, as its elaborate crown - allegedly designed to resemble a tiara worn by one of Emperor Maximilian's mistresses - simply cannot be overlooked.

The candlelight processions generally start in front of Woolworth's and go the 11 blocks down Juarez street to the Guadalupe church. Indigenous pagan and Christian rituals are mixed together as young warriors dance in the streets commemorating the miraculous apparition, while others carry banners or colorful floats that usually portray the Virgin Mary and Juan Diego.

On the eve of December 12th, the last procession begins its journey towards the Cathedral. Once the procession reaches its destination, a special mass in devotion to Puerto Vallarta's revered patron saint, the Virgin of Guadalupe, is celebrated.

It was on the same day in 1851 that Puerto Vallarta was founded by Don Guadalupe Sanchez; thus, the 12th of December also marks the 167th anniversary of the founding of Puerto Vallarta.

The feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe is one of Puerto Vallarta's most beloved and popular celebrations. Baptisms, confirmations, first holy communions and even weddings take place within the local community to coincide with this special and blessed date.

Fireworks decorate and light up the skies, folk dance groups perform, traditional parades entertain the crowds, people sing hymns and songs of praise in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe, and the central plaza is filled to the brim with street vendors selling fruits, food, souveniers and other specialties.

A beautiful, religious and cultural event in Mexico, the Festival of Guadalupe is one of Puerto Vallarta's most beloved celebrations, drawing crowds of many thousands each year.DETROIT -- A man is dead after he forced his way into a home and was shot by one of the women inside, according to the Associated Press.

Three women, ages 75, 55 and 29 were leaving for church around 10:30 a.m. Sunday when the man confronted them in their driveway, according to police. He forced the women back into their home, but once inside, the 55-year-old pulled a gun and shot at the man twice.

He was struck in the chest once and pronounced dead on the scene. He is believed to be in his 30s, but has not yet been identified. Police say the shooter will not be charged as she was acting in self defense.BAY CITY, MI -- The 2018 Leadership Bay County Class is working to reinvigorate Realtor Park in an effort to improve Bay City's West Side business district.

By this summer, Realtor Park, a sight that greets tourists, citizens and passersby as they enter the city, could look completely different. The park is located at the intersection of Jenny and Henry streets and east of the Midland Street Business District sign.

The leadership class plans to beautify the park with benches, lighting, walking paths, landscaping and a 16-foot-tall steel sculpture depicting the Saginaw River flowing out to the Saginaw Bay called "Before the Bay."

Rendering of Realtor Park.

"Our goal is to invest $70,000 in the Realtor Park and the surrounding area," said Terry Spencer, a participant of the Leadership Bay County Class. "This is something that, of course, is going to be there for generations, but also it's going to be a point of pride in the community."

Spencer said the class of 21 students are spreading the word about the project and their goal to raise the $70,000.

Investors, business owners and the community is invited to a hot cocoa social from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8 at Realtor Park.

So far, there have been some donations from the community but a big chunk of money is coming from the Michigan Economic Development Corp. If the class can raise $30,000 by Jan. 15, the organization will match that amount, which would only leave $10,000 to raise, said Paul Gaiser, project leader for Leadership Bay County Class.

However, if the class does not reach its fundraising goal of $30,000 by the deadline, the MEDC won't match any of the money, he said.

The focal point of the project will be the the towering, 16-foot statue created by Saginaw artist Jason Graham. Gaiser estimates the statue alone will cost around $35,000. The statue is expected to be visible to passing traffic.

Businesses in the Midland Street Business District, such as the River Rock Cafe, think the project is much needed and will help to bring more business to the area.

"We need it big time. Everybody is either going uptown and downtown... this side of the river has been neglected by the city," said Henry Alvarez, a manager who has worked at River Rock Cafe for 22 years.

He said he's seen the area at its peak and at its lowest in terms of business. He added that businesses such as O'Hares Bar and Grill struggled to stay afloat and eventually shut down.

The Midland Street Business District recently underwent a face lift that repaired two blocks, but Alvarez said it's not enough.

"Anything will help at this time," said Alvarez. "Nobody is coming around. All your major activities are on the other side of the river."

He said he fears that if there isn't a change, local businesses won't last in the area and chain restaurants like Applebee's will be all that is left.

Other businesses on Midland Street include VNO, Lumber Barons Brewery, Cops and Doughnuts, Eudici's Pizza, BB'z New York Deli, Brooklyn Boyz Pizza, and more.

Ryan Tarrant, president and CEO of the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, said the Gateway Corridor Beautification Committee tries to engage the community with different events and displays.

He said the project originally was an idea from the beautification committee and the leadership class stepped in to help tackle it.

"We feel like this could be used as a catalyst for the neighborhood and Midland Street Business District and continue the momentum that Bay County and Bay City has," said Tarrant.

He added that the leadership class, overseen by the chamber, is a way for citizens to learn about hidden treasures in the community and how to make an impact.

If the class is able to reach its fundraising goal by the deadline, work could start in the park as early as April and be completed by June. The park would be ready just in time for the Tall Ship Celebration and the Fourth of July.

To learn more about the project, visit here.FLINT, MI -- State health officials were "disorganized and unrealistic in their expectations" for a program designed to provide followup care for Flint children with elevated blood lead levels, Genesee County officials say in documents obtained by MLive-The Flint Journal.

The lead case management program, which was taken from the county Health Department by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services in May 2016, provided follow-up services and referrals for children with blood lead levels above 5 micrograms per deciliter.

After federal recognition of the Flint water crisis, the program was flooded with of referrals and DHHS stripped the program from the county after finding 85 percent - 173 of 204 children referred to it -- had not been enrolled in services in early 2016.

Records -- some in draft form -- obtained through the Freedom of Information Act by The Journal show county officials believed the state contributed to the problems, which were not as dire as the numbers appeared.

"The nurse case managers have worked hard in the field to identify families to enroll in case management ... Throughout the process the state of Michigan has micro-managed services. They have been disorganized and unrealistic in their expectations," an unsigned draft letter to "partners" of the county Health Department says.

The same letter says the county "wholeheartedly disagrees with MDHHS' decision to move lead case management out of the health department," contending its staff was best suited to help Flint children and that despite low enrollment rates, workers had made at least one attempt to contact 98 percent of referrals.

"There were obstacles to providing case management services to our community," another document says. "From our perspective, it very much felt as if MDHHS was concerned only with data and the number of children enrolled ... instead of the struggles that many of our families encounter on a daily basis.

"This led to a contentious relationship with MDHSS, as they did not want to hear the stories of some of the families that we are here to serve. Some families did not want the services that were offered due to their own beliefs or upon advice from others," the document, a draft response to a report on the water crisis by a state task force, says.

"MDHHS believed that all families should receive these services, and did not want the (county) staff to allow them to consider whether the service would benefit their family."

The county Board of Commissioners did not immediately comment on the content of the case management records or the Health Department's criticism of DHHS.

Angela Minicuci, a DHHS spokeswoman, said the agency was unaware of the records that were critical of the state's actions in the lead program.

"Based on the issues with case management followup at GCHD at the time, and per direction from the federal government, MDHHS stands by its decision to move case management to the Genesee County Children's Healthcare Access Program," Minicuci said in an email to The Journal.

Case management programs to help children with elevated lead exist in every county in Michigan, but only in Genesee County is the program now administered by an agency other than a county health department.

Families in the programs can be enrolled in services like follow-up blood testing, referrals for lead abatement in housing, and developmental screenings.

Workers attempt to make contact with families referred to them by DHHS after doctors and clinics report blood test results to the state.

In Genesee County, the lead case management program received added scrutiny earlier this year after April Cook-Hawkins, a former employee in the program, claimed she was told to falsify the results of blood lead tests from Flint children to help lessen the demand for services.

Cook-Hawkins appeared in the Michael Moore film "Fahrenheit 11/9" and has said she met with criminal investigators for the state Attorney General's Office this year.

Fifteen current and former city and state employees already have been charged with crimes related to the water crisis.

County officials have denied those claims by Cook-Hawkins.FLINT, MI - The man who shot and killed a man and wounded three other people during a morning shooting in Flint last year was sentenced on Monday in Genesee Circuit Court.

Maurice Dobson-El, 24, was sentenced to 22 to 44 years in prison for the murder of Samuel Sharp III on May 4, 2017, in the 600 block of Copeman Boulevard.

The Dec. 3 sentencing by Genesee Circuit Judge Celeste Bell was part of a plea agreement Dobson-El made on Oct. 30 in which Dobson-El pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and no contest to felony firearm and assault with intent to murder.

Dobson-El also was sentenced to two years on the felony firearm charge and 135 to 225 months on the assault with intent to murder count. He was given credit for 578 days in jail.

Michigan law requires Dobson-El serve his full two-year sentence for the felony firearm before the second-degree murder sentence commences.

"The events that bring you here are totally unfortunate," Bell told Dobson-El during sentencing. "What happened that day should not have happened."

No one from Sharp's family spoke during the sentencing.

Attorney Jessica Mainprize-Hajek said her client was defending himself after Sharp made threats to Dobson-El and his family.

"He is exceedingly remorseful," she said. "This is a horrific event that no one wishes happened."

The court was filled with Dobson-El's family.

He apologized to one of victims he shot, who was in the courtroom.

"I want to apologize to my family first," Dobson-El said. "I was just defending myself."

Police responded at about 9 a.m. on May 4 to the 600 block of Copeman Boulevard and found Sharp suffering from gunshot wounds. Sharp, 18, died at the scene.

Three others - two men and a woman, all in their twenties - were transported to Hurley Medical Center where they were treated for gunshot wounds.

A fight took place between someone at a home in the area and the people who were shot, police previously said.

The three shooting victims were found in a van, while Sharp was found in the street.FLINT, MI - Working smoke detectors may have saved two people from injury after a fire started in the basement of a Flint home Monday.

The Flint Fire Department was called at 12:26 p.m. on Dec. 3 to a two-story home in the 3200 block of Prospect Street for a possible entrapment fire, according to Battalion Chief Mark Kovach.

Firefighters could see a lot of smoke, but no flames when they arrived at what they believed was a foster care home for six teenagers between the ages of 16 and 18-years-old, Kovach said.

Two of the home's occupants were outside of the residence and it was determined that the others who lived there were safe at other locations, according to Kovach.

Firefighters found a fire small in the basement and were able to get it under control in about 30 minutes.

The cause is still under investigation.

"I don't think there was any structural damage. Most of it's going to be smoke damage that spread all the way up to the second floor," Kovach said. "Due to the working smoke detectors, the people throughout the rest of the house were able to get out without injury. Make sure you check your smoke detectors."FLINT, MI -- A mountain of toys made its way on Sunday afternoon from UAW Local 598 to the Flint Toys for Tots headquarters situated in the former UAW Local 581 union hall on Saginaw Street.

The move on Sunday, Dec. 2 utilizing a car hauler and lots of people power took place after the local union group's monthly membership meeting and months of fundraising efforts.

Ryan Buchalski, president of UAW Local 598, said the group has been fundraising for decades to provide Christmas gifts for children in Flint and the surrounding communities through Toys for Tots.

"It kind of grew over the years," commented Buchalski, with thousands of dollars worth of toys and merchandise typically raised and donated each year to Toys for Tots. "It got a little bigger and there were more toys."

More than $15,000 in funds were raised in 2018 through a weekly popcorn sale at Flint Assembly, as well as toys donated as part of the ninth annual "Bring a Toy to Work Day" in the week leading up to the meeting.

Bicycles, stuffed animals, dolls, puzzles, and board games were among the items moved by hand onto the hauler by local union members.

Local UAW members also raised more than $30,000 in 2017 for the Old Newsboys organization that offers a Christmas box including an age-appropriate toy, clothing, and hygiene items.

"It's something that you feel good about being able to do. We feel like we're doing a little bit better in the community," said Buchalski. "We've got our union negotiated wages and benefits fought for. We've got a little extra, so we're going to do what we can to help."

MLive-The Flint Journal photographer Kaiti Sullivan contributed to this report.GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- A vacant office building in downtown Grand Rapids will soon have a new owner.

RDV Corporation, the family office for the DeVos family, announced Monday that it has reached an agreement with CWD Real Estate Investment to purchase 200 Monroe Ave. NW, a six-story office building.

Terms of the sale were not disclosed.

Significant renovations are planned for the 100,000-square-foot building, which will serve as the new headquarters for RDV Corporation, the DeVos family foundations, and Ottawa Avenue Private Capital, an investment advisory firm tied to the DeVos family.

Upgrades will include a new entrance on Monroe Avenue, and the removal of the building's dark tinted windows and concrete facade in favor of a "more modern design," according to a news release. Plans also call for a "slight extension of the building to the south," and the "reconfiguration of rooftop HVAC equipment to allow for useable office space to be built" on top of the building.

The work, expected to start this winter, is projected to last 2 1/2 years. The building is located adjacent to Fifth Third Bank's Grand Rapids headquarters and across the street from DeVos Place Convention Center.

"We believe that 200 Monroe is an important piece of downtown's core," Dick DeVos, RDV Corporation's chairman, said in a statement. "We're excited to breathe new life into this more than 50-year-old building, modernizing its overall appearance and opening it up to street level."

Once the work is complete in 2021, the DeVos entities - which have more than 120 employees - will move into the building. The three entities -- RDV Corporation, Ottawa Avenue Private Capital and the DeVos family foundations --are located in three separate buildings downtown.

"That's part of what makes this great for us - being together in one structure," said RDV spokesperson Nick Wasmiller. He said it's not clear at this time how much the renovations will cost.

The building was constructed in 1967 by the Michigan Consolidated Gas Company as part of the Vandenberg Center, a federal urban renewal project that reshaped downtown Grand Rapids. It was last occupied by Fifth Third Bank.

CWD purchased 200 Monroe Ave. NW and other buildings in the Fifth Third complex in 2016.

The renovations to the building will complement other development efforts downtown, Wasmiller said.

"The efforts to reimagine Calder Plaza are advancing quickly and CWD has a track record of transformational impact with several downtown buildings - and they're now squarely focused on properties neighboring this site," Wasmiller said in a statement. "In addition, the nearby Amway Grand Plaza is undertaking a significant renovation of its iconic glass tower, and the riverfront restoration project is moving forward quickly as well. It's a great location in the center city that will experience tremendous investment in a short period of time."

AMDG is serving as the project's architectural firm, and Rockford Construction is serving as the general contractor.

"We see 200 Monroe as a key component of this area's revitalization," Sam Cummings, Managing Partner of CWD, said in a statement. "This renovation will transform the Lyon Street / Monroe Avenue corner, serve as a catalyst for the future renovation of neighboring sites, and provide greater pedestrian access to the elevated areas of the Vandenberg Center from Lyon Street. It's an important project and a timely one given all that is occurring around it."GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- A 39-year-old man accused of killing a U.S. Marine and his father in a Jan. 4 road-rage incident died from an apparent suicide Friday night in the Kent County Jail.

Joseph Richard Hanna was found in distress during a routine bed check around 10 p.m. and later died about 10:40 p.m. Nov. 30, according to Kent County Sheriff's Office.

Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young confirmed Hanna died of an apparent suicide.

Hanna is accused of "intentionally ramming" a vehicle with his own vehicle while both vehicles were eastbound on 14 Mile Road (M-57) near Harvard Avenue in Kent County's Oakfield Township.

The driver of the second vehicle, Jerry Lee Kinsey, 48, of Sand Lake, and his son, Lance Cpl. Joel Eugene Kinsey, 20, who was the front-seat passenger, died after the crash.

Hanna was arrested May 16 and arraigned on charges of second-degree murder, operating while intoxicated causing death, and reckless driving causing death.

He was also under the influence of marijuana at the time of the crash, according to police. He was booked at the Kent County Jail with bond set at $500,000.GRAND RAPIDS, MI - A man and his 17-year-old son are expected to survive after they were shot Sunday, Dec. 2, near Martin Luther King Jr. Park.

The father, 48, and his son are in stable condition at a local hospital. Both suffered gunshot wounds.

Police think that a single gunman shot the two around 4:30 p.m. outside of a home near the intersection of Watkins Street SE and Fuller Avenue.

The gunman fled on foot. Police searched a nearby home but continue to look for the assailant.

Police asked anyone with information who hasn't talked to police to call investigators at 456-3400, Silent Observer at 774-2345 or www.silentobserver.orgGRAND RAPIDS, MI - Condemned killer Marvin Gabrion filed notice he would appeal a federal judge's ruling rejecting his multiple, long-running allegations of mistreatment by the justice system.

Gabrion, 65, is awaiting the death penalty in the 1997 killing of Rachel Timmerman, 19.

He is also suspected of killing her 11-month-old daughter, Shannon, whose body was never found, and three others.

Gabrion, who has already exhausted direct appeals, has waged a "collateral attack," a civil process that alleges violations of the U.S. Constitution, in an attempt to vacate his conviction and sentence or get a new trial.

He wanted to depose attorneys, prosecutors, FBI agents, mental-health experts, a forensic pathologist, state police and others and examine evidence and records used to convict him. His attorneys provided an extraordinary report looking at four generations of his family's history, including mental illness, substance abuse and "chaotic" home environments.

"Marvin did not escape this family tree unscathed," a defense report said.

He has filed notice to appeal a ruling by U.S. District Judge Robert Jonker in Grand Rapids to the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals in Cincinnati.

Jonker rejected Gabrion's claims that Gabrion's incompetence, ineffective counsel, false or misleading evidence, lying witnesses and other issues led to his wrongful conviction.

"The evidence of Gabrion's guilt and of the aggravating factors in support of his sentence are overwhelming," Jonker wrote in a 216-page opinion.

"His trial attorneys provided admirable assistance in the face of this evidence, despite Gabrion's uncooperative and unpredictable behavior. .. the evidence of Gabrion's guilt is so strong.. ."

Rachel Timmerman and her daughter, Shannon, in a family photo.

The government says Gabrion, awaiting trial accused of raping Timmerman, killed her to prevent her from testifying against him. She was bound and gagged, chained to concrete blocks, and thrown from an old, metal boat into a weedy, muddy lake in the Manistee National Forest.

She was alive when she was put into Oxford Lake and drowned. Her body was recovered about a month after her early June 1997, killing.

She disappeared two days before Gabrion was to stand trial for raping her in August 1996.

Gabrion was sentenced to death by a jury in 2002. Michigan law does not allow the death penalty but Gabrion was tried under federal law after the prosecution showed the killing happened on federal land.

The federal appellate court has previously cited the "the utter depravity of the manner in which (Gabrion) killed (Timmerman)." The U.S. Supreme Court has refused previous request to hear his case.

Gabrion is held in a federal prison in Terre Haute, Indiana, where most condemned prisoners stay. His execution is anything but certain. Since 1988, when the federal penalty was re-instated after a 16-year moratorium, only three on death row have been put to death.

Among them: Timothy McVeigh, who killed 168 in the April 19, 1995, bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City. He did not challenge the sentence.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy VerHey says Gabrion's challenge to the appellate court could be his last legal avenue.

The government said John Weeks, at Gabrion's urging, convinced Timmerman to go to dinner with him. She brought her daughter. They soon went missing. Weeks also went missing. So did Wayne Davis, a witness to the sexual assault, and Robert Allen, a mentally disabled Kent County man whose Social Security checks were stolen by Gabrion.

For many years, Gabrion tried to get U.S. District Judge Robert Holmes Bell to recuse himself, including when Bell told MLive/Grand Rapids Press in 2016 that Gabrion "is in the right place" on death row. Bell would not recuse himself. He retired at the end of 2016 and Jonker took the case.

In a strongly worded opinion, Jonker rejected Gabrion's claims. Many of them have been litigated, at length, over the years.

"Furthermore, in the Court's own judgment, the death penalty is not automatically an excessive punishment for all criminally responsible people who have some form of mental illness," Jonker wrote.

"In this case, all the evidence before the Court indicates that Gabrion is unwilling to cooperate with counsel, not that he is unable to do so. Gabrion's current counsel assert that '(e)fforts to discus (Gabrion's) case are met with derision and anger,' and that Gabrion is 'consumed with topics having nothing to do with this litigation and that is all he will discuss with counsel. He is actively delusional,'" the judge wrote.

Those are "virtually identical" observations of trial attorneys, the judge said.

He was "always hostile" to his attorneys. During the sentencing phase, he punched an attorney, which he later contended should have served as grounds for a mistrial.

The judge said Gabrion filed "an exhaustive list of challenges" to the criminal proceedings but none had merit.

He also wants to represent himself now, saying his attorneys "are in a conspiracy with an 'Obama crime syndicate,'' and he has been "proven innocent through

DNA evidence," the judge said.

Jonker said that Timmerman "made it clear to others that she was terrified that Gabrion would kill her. At one point, she stopped by a friend's house, closed the curtains, and stated repeatedly that Gabrion was going to kill her because of the rape case," Jonker wrote.

She had called police twice to report seeing Gabrion in an effort to leave a "trail" in case he followed through on a threat to kill her, the judge said.

"Rachel's fear was justified."LANSING, MI -- Gov. Rick Snyder has dropped plans to have the Mackinac Bridge Authority take ownership of the proposed Line 5 tunnel after receiving pushback to the idea.

The governor's office instead is now seeking to create a new entity that is similar to the bridge authority but tasked with the specific mission of overseeing and owning a utility tunnel under the Straits of Mackinac, according to state Sen. Tom Casperson, R-Escanaba.

Casperson initially introduced legislation in early November that would grant the bridge authority powers to own, operate and oversee a utility tunnel in the Straits.

He said Monday, Dec. 3, that his bill is undergoing revisions to align with the new direction. The bill is currently on the senate floor and a substituted version with revised language about the new tunnel authority could be heard as soon as Tuesday, he said.

"Because of the success of the bridge authority, I would think we're going to try to duplicate it as much as we can," Casperson said.

Ari Adler, a spokesperson for Snyder, said the change in plans came from lawmakers.

"Legislators appear to favor an alternative of using a new authority and Gov. Snyder supports that decision," Adler said in an email.

Casperson said his office is working with the Snyder administration to finalize language about the proposed tunnel authority.

Much of the pushback to the bill wasn't about the tunnel itself but about the oversight and ownership by the Mackinac Bridge Authority, Casperson said.

The senator heard concerns that the bridge authority could be financially burdened with lawsuits against the tunnel and be spread thin between oversight of both the Mighty Mac and the tunnel, he said.

Rep. Lee Chatfield, R-Levering, who is the incoming state House speaker, voiced his concerns about the bill early Monday on Facebook.

"I do not wish to see (the Mackinac Bridge Authority) distracted by another job, and because of that I am pushing to create an entity that can meet this obligation instead of the bridge authority," Chatfield said in his Facebook message.

Casperson said he and Chatfield have had "ongoing discussions" about the bill and agree about the new direction.

Casperson said having the Mackinac Bridge Authority take ownership of the tunnel was the "cleaner and quicker" option but that a tunnel authority would garner more support. The senator lauded the bridge authority's work and accomplishments.

The creation of a tunnel authority won't affect the ability of the Snyder administration to finalize the tunnel deal before the end of his term, according to Adler.

Snyder has expressed he wants to seal the deal before Gov.-elect Gretchen Whitmer takes over on Jan. 1. During her campaign, Whitmer criticized the tunnel plan and said she wanted to shut down Line 5.

On Oct. 3, the Snyder administration announced it wanted the Mackinac Bridge Authority to take ownership of the proposed utility tunnel.

Plans call for Line 5 owner Enbridge Energy to fund the construction and design of the tunnel -- a bill estimated between $350 million to $500 million. Once completed, Snyder wants the new tunnel authority to assume ownership of the tunnel.

Enbridge and the new tunnel authority must still agree to numerous details, including those about construction, maintenance and who pays for minor and major malfunctions of the tunnel infrastructure.

If all goes to plan, the tunnel will be operational sometime between 2025 and 2028. The 65-year-old twin Line 5 pipelines would be decommissioned only after the tunnel is completed.

It's not clear if the creation and implementation of a tunnel authority would cost Michigan taxpayers more or less than oversight by the Mackinac Bridge Authority.

Before the bridge authority plans were dropped, Gov. Rick Snyder's administration requested that lawmakers earmark $4.5 million for "radar current mapping, as well as planning, oversight and legal services related to the proposed Mackinac Straits utility tunnel project."

The Line 5 pipeline, built in 1953, runs 645 miles from Superior, Wisconsin, to Sarnia, Canada, and transports up to 540,000 barrels of light crude oil and natural gas liquids per day.

Calls to shutdown the pipeline were renewed earlier this year,

. The line was damaged with three dents and an abrasion but has since been patched up with composite sleeves.UPDATE: Victim identified

GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- Police are investigating a "suspicious situation" after finding a female's body Sunday.

The woman's body was located near a residence in the 900 block of Franklin Street SE.

Police did not release a cause of death for the woman.

The identity of the woman and that of the person who discovered the body have not been released.

Police said in a statement release after 9 p.m. that they will remain on the scene for a while to investigate.

A Grand Rapids police official said police believe the death investigation of the woman is unrelated to the shooting at Fuller Avenue and Watkins. Two people were injured Sunday afternoon in that shooting incident.

Detectives on the scene are working to obtain a search warrant to aid in investigating the situation.HYDE, MI - A Michigan man was killed when the vehicle he was driving crossed the centerline and hit another vehicle in the Upper Peninsula.

According to the Delta County Sheriff's Office, Michael Doneau, 59, of Schaefer, was traveling eastbound on US-2 & 41 near Hyde around 9:20 p.m. on Dec. 1 when he crossed into the path of a westbound vehicle driven by Adrianne Ault, 22, of Bark River.

When sheriff's deputies and officers from the Hannahville Police Department arrived on the scene, they found Doneau unconscious. He was later pronounced dead at St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba. Ault and her two juvenile passengers were treated and released at St. Francis Hospital.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by Hannahville Tribal Police, Escanaba Public Safety, Michigan State Police, Ford River Fire/EMS, UP Health Systems, Delta County Victim Advocates, Gene's Towing and the Delta County Road Commission. The crash remains under investigation.A group of Democratic lawmakers in Michigan have introduced a bill that seeks to release prisoners convicted of certain types of marijuana crimes.

House Bill 6508 would create a release process for convicts if they are in prison for the use, possession or distribution of marijuana if they meet certain conditions.

The bill also seeks to reduce the sentence for other marijuana crimes. It was introduced by state representatives Sylvia Santana, D-Detroit; Kevin Hertel, D-St. Clair Shores; Robert Wittenberg, D-Oak Park; Ronnie Peterson, D-Ypsilanti; Tom Cochran, D-Mason; Tenisha Yancey, D-Harper Woods; Mary Rose Robinson, D-Detroit; Leslie Love, D-Detroit; and Sheldon Neeley, D-Flint.

It's one of four bills have been introduced regarding marijuana during the first week of the Michigan legislature's lame duck session.

Voters passed Proposal 1 -- legalizing adult use of marijuana -- with 56 percent of the vote. Though it has yet to go into effect, lawmakers are proposing both criminal justice reforms and significant changes to the program.

Lame duck -- the time between the November election and the end of the legislative term -- is notorious for dramatic legislative action. Michigan's state House of Representatives and Senate are scheduled to meet nine more times before the end of the year.

Of the four bill that have been introduced, the most significant has come from outgoing Senate Majority Leader Arlan Meekhof, R-West Olive, which would gut the tax revenue from Proposal 1 and eliminate home grows.

Here are the bills:

This bill would amend Public Act 213 of 1965 to allow offenders convicted of multiple violations possession of a controlled substance to apply to have their records cleared of those crimes.

It was introduced Nov. 27 by senators Steven Bieda, D-Warren; Ian Conyers, D-Detroit; Curtis Hertel Jr., D-East Lansing and Coleman Young II, D-Detroit.

It's identical to Identical to House Bill 6227 that was introduced in June by Democrats and is still in the Committee on Law and Justice. Senate Bill 1200 is now before the Committee on Judiciary.

Sponsored by Sen. Meekhof Nov. 29, the bill seeks sweeping changes to Proposal 1. The bill proposes cutting the excise tax rate from 10 percent to three percent, changing the recipients of the tax revenue, eliminating a micro grower's license and adding a licensing board.

Much of the bill attempts to make the recreational marijuana program more like the state's medical marijuana program -- with the exception of home grows. Though medical patients and caregivers are allowed to grow marijuana at home, the bill would strip out the provision in Proposal 1 that allows individuals to grow up to 12 plants at home.

The bill is now before the Committee on Government Operations.

Introduced Nov. 27 by House Rep. Klint Kesto, R-Commerce Twp., this bill would amend the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act of 2016 to make it a misdemeanor crime to operate a medical marijuana business without a license.

Violators could face fines up to $25,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 93 days. The bill was referred to the Committee on Law and Justice and is up for a second reading.

-- Amy Biolchini is the marijuana beat reporter for MLive. Contact her with questions, tips or comments at abiolch1@mlive.com.

Read more from MLive about recreational marijuana.ALBION, MI - Roughly 40 percent of the commercial space in downtown Albion is vacant.

The glory days of the city's strong manufacturing presence in the mid-to-late 20th century are gone, with a population dwindling by the decade and downtown spaces ill-prepared for business or living.

City business leaders have hope, however, as a collaboration of organizations look to tackle a $25 million project to revitalize Albion's downtown core.

The plan is to gut and redevelop 29 storefronts and 52 upper-floor apartments in the next two to three years, said Amy Deprez, executive director of the Albion Reinvestment Corporation.

"In 10 to 15 years, I think we could be in a completely different spot," Deprez said. "Back when Albion did thrive because of the foundry businesses, I think we could be back close to that if everything goes the way it should."

The plans account for redevelopment of roughly half of all downtown commercial spaces, Deprez said. The corporation owns many of these spaces - most of which are empty now.

Renderings of the redeveloped storefronts were released earlier this fall, showing retractable awnings and historically-appropriate facades lining the downtown of the south central Michigan city.

"The majority of them are old, historic, original buildings that will be brought back to their former glory," Deprez said.

Albion College and Ace Investments own the other downtown spaces that are part of the project. All units would be redeveloped with the same cookie-cutter approach, Deprez said, with white-box commercial space on the ground floor and upstairs apartments.

The biggest question mark remaining is funding, Deprez said. Officials plan to pay for the project through grants, private investment and tax-increment financing.

Having available spaces is the first step to luring businesses in, Deprez said. Moving in anchor stores is a key part of their plan to attract other businesses.

"We're working hard to get a national brand hardware store to commit to Albion," Deprez said. "I think if we can get some of those key elements, it'll change it. At some point, people will start looking at Albion as an option."

Building momentum with a dwindling population

The city has been in decline for decades - with a 2017 U.S. Census population estimate of 8,285. In its industrial heyday of the 1960s, Albion had nearly 13,000 residents.

Nearly 64 percent of the 2,785 households are empty-nesters and retirees, according to the ARC plan for downtown development.

While $25 million sounds like a lofty goal, Deprez said, more than $20 million has been invested in the immediate downtown area in the past three years, including the following projects.

A new Courtyard by Marriott hotel,

The reopening of the Bohm Theatre, for first-run movies and community events, a $3.5 million investment

The Ludington Center, where five storefronts were redeveloped into a college/community space by Albion College,

Albion Malleable Brewing Company, a $1 million investment

ARC hopes to build off this momentum to accomplish further progress downtown, Deprez said.

"We wouldn't even be having these conversations about a transformational project had those building blocks not already occurred," Deprez said.

Officials hope to provide a taste of the future this month, with a holiday retail pop-up location. Sixteen businesses from across Michigan are setting up shop at 111 S. Superior St.

The goal is to remind residents of what it's like to shop downtown and get people thinking about what types of businesses would be a good fit, officials said.

"It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as an economic developer to have this chance to see a community revitalize in such a short amount of time," Deprez said. "And I think it's doable. I can't wait to see it happen."KALAMAZOO, MI -- As winter weather returns, downtown Kalamazoo's emergency homeless shelters are starting to experience a seasonal increase in overnight guests.

The Kalamazoo Gospel Mission provides three meals a day and overnight shelter for 350 to 500 people every night, as well as counseling and other social services. Across the street, Ministry With Community's day shelter offers breakfast and lunch addition to more extensive services like laundry, showers, phone access, and counseling.

This summer was marked by fiery protests organized by homeless people who criticized the lack of secular shelter services in Kalamazoo. The Gospel Mission was the main target of demonstrators' ire, expressed during negotiations between the city and encampment hosted by Ministry With Community.

Months after the encampment ended, officials at the Gospel Mission and Ministry With Community said they're back to business as usual.

"It wasn't like this population that just out of nowhere appeared," said Gospel Mission Director of Programs John Simpson. "Most of them were already using our services ... and we had relationships with a lot of them. The good that came from it is the community ... has a better understanding of the depth of services the Gospel Mission provides. It's not just food and shelter, it's much deeper than that."

The organizations take a more prominent role in providing clothing items to the homeless during the holiday season. Both are accepting donations from the community, particularly socks, hats, gloves, scarves and other winter wear.

Ministry With Community is hosting its 19th annual Underwear Party at the Radisson Plaza Hotel from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 3. Admission to the event is a donation of new, unwrapped underwear, socks, thermal undergarments and other winter gear.

Donations can be dropped off at the Gospel Mission men's shelter at 448 N. Burdick St.

Though the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety reported more interactions with homeless people in Bronson Park this summer, the downtown shelters aren't expecting a surge in guests compared to previous winters.

The most recent point-in-time count shows 567 people experienced homelessness during a single night in January 2018, including 53 people not staying in a shelter and 149 children.

"We're starting to see an increase now, that's seasonal," Simpson said. "It happens every year this time of year. When snow starts to fly and temperatures start to go below freezing we always begin to see an uptick in the number of guests that we serve."

Ministry With Community Executive Director Kelly Henderson doesn't anticipate an uptick in guests this winter. She said the organization serves many people who aren't homeless but need to use the ministry's resources to "help stretch a budget."

Henderson said the daytime shelter is a valuable source of refuge from the elements, whether it be heat or frigid cold.

"Snowstorm or not, we are here with our doors open providing meals and doing the best we can for people who are struggling," Henderson said.

Capacity at the Gospel Mission shouldn't be affected by a shuffling of shelter space, Simpson said. The Gospel Mission's overnight women's shelter was recently moved into the second floor of its men's shelter building.

"We've never been at a place where we've had to turn someone away and we hope that we don't ever have to get to that place," Simpson said. "We'll do everything we can to help everyone who comes in our direction."

The move was planned to take place before the women's shelter building is demolished next spring and reconstructed, but two summer fires in the "good Samaritan" portion of the shelter, a communal room where up to 75 women and children sleep on mats, expedited the transition.

Ninety percent of the space within the women's and children's shelter is unusable and unsafe, said Pastor Michael Brown, Kalamazoo Gospel Mission president and CEO. The facility is more than 100 years old.

Shelter space for women and children is set to double at the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission when the new facility is built. An $8 million campaign to entirely replace a collection of four buildings along North Burdick Street achieved its goal, with demolition expected to start next spring.

In the meantime, women will stay in dormitory-like facilities in men's shelter building. Simpson said the move hasn't affected the number of women who can be served. He said he's received good feedback from guests who told him the new space is more comfortable.

Simpson said all guest will have access to counseling usually available to people who commit to the mission's long-term programs.

Construction on a single entry point for the Gospel Mission shelters and cafeteria started last week. There are currently multiple entrances to facilities, which makes it difficult to keep track of the population being served, Simpson said.BUENA VISTA TWP, MI -- Debris consisting of the home's interior littered the lawn of the house on the 1000 block of South 27th Street. The inside looks like a hurricane blew through it.

Crystal Thomas and her children were left homeless after police came to her home last Friday looking for her 16-year-old son.

"They made sure I could not live in my home," said Thomas, who has been renting the property for about three years.

Michigan State Police were executing a search warrant at the property about 4 p.m. on Nov. 30 when they believed that someone had barricaded themselves inside the home.

It was later discovered that no one was in the house and police left the premises about 2 a.m. Saturday morning.

Police were searching for Thomas' son in an investigation of an armed robbery last week.

Thomas said that her son had not been home since he became defiant to her and that she tried explaining that to police, who had detained her on her way home from work Friday.

"I cooperated with them to the fullest while I was detained," she said. "My son called my phone several times while I was detained and they told me to answer it the last time he called."

Thomas said she told her son to turn himself in. She then offered officers a key to her home so they could go in and see that he was not here.

Thomas said she told police that they would find three of her kids at her home when they went there, minus the son she was looking for.

"They got the same info from me and my kids," she said.

Thomas said she stopped cooperating with police after they refused to take her key and enter the home.

"They said they can't do it like this because there are precautions," she said. "I didn't know the precautions would be all of this."

All of the home's windows are boarded and teargas canisters litter the inside of the home. Outdoors can be seen from the interior kitchen wall. Thomas' bedroom is inaccessible.

"They sent the robot in they tore up the house," Thomas said, tearfully. "They could've sent the robot first."

Now, Thomas said she has to leave work and drive past her home numerous times throughout the day to make sure no one is breaking into the home, something that has already begun to happen.

Police had said they received conflicting information about whether the juvenile was in the home.

"They asked me do I think he would be willing to turn himself in and I told them no," Thomas said. "That's all I told them."

Thomas said she will have to move her family in with her mother while she determines what she will do next.

MSP Lt. David Kaiser said there is a process to be reimbursed for damages.

"The owner can file a claim with the insurance company and the insurance company goes through the state administrator," Kaiser said. "The owner has already been in contact and is working with the state police and insurance company."

Kaiser called the incident unfortunate, "especially with the holidays coming."

"It's not her fault that her son made some bad decisions," Kaiser said.

Police have yet to apprehend Thomas' son.

"I will hand-deliver my child when I get my hands on him," Thomas said.SAGINAW TWP, MI -- Voters across the state and in Saginaw Township approved a statewide proposal to legalize recreational marijuana in November, but some Saginaw Township officials now seek to ban related facilities in the community.

Proposal 1 narrowly passed in Saginaw Township, with 9,985 yes votes to 9,899 no votes, according to election results posted online by the Saginaw County Clerk's office. Statewide, Proposal 1 garnered nearly 56 percent of the vote.

According to a letter to planning commissioners signed by Steve King, the township's director of community development, "staff proposes that the Planning Commission schedule a public hearing on January 2, 2019 for a zoning ordinance text amendment that will prohibit the operation of marijuana facilities provided for through the MRTMA (Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act)."

The letter continues, "Because of requirements established within MRTMA, the township faces a narrow opt-out window that necessitates formal action in January."

This matter is on the agenda for a regular meeting of the Saginaw Township Planning Commission at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5, at Saginaw Township Hall, 4980 Shattuck Road. During that meeting, the planning commission will simply decide whether to schedule a public hearing. They won't decide whether to ban recreational marijuana facilities just yet.

When asked why Saginaw Township staff have proposed banning such facilities even though Saginaw Township voters voted yes on Proposal 1, King explained "we're just trying to keep that policy framework consistent" with the township's decision in 2016 not to allow medical marijuana facilities to open up shop after that was legalized.

"The elected officials and planning commission haven't taken a stance and, frankly, they may not agree with staff's position," King said.

"We want to take a conservative viewpoint at this point and keep on with the policy stance that was taken two years ago," he continued. "That doesn't mean elected officials wont look at the same data you cited and say, 'Ah, maybe we need to reconsider this.'"

If the planning commission schedules a public hearing for Jan. 2, citizens will have the opportunity to share their thoughts on the topic before the planning commission votes. If the planning commission agrees with the staff's proposal, it would then go to the Saginaw Township Board of Trustees for a vote.

"It's a complex issue," King said. "If the township opts out of of allowing such commercial marijuana facilities right now, they can always opt in at a later point."

In addition to the potential for local bans, the recreational marijuana program faces other hurdles. Retail shops won't open immediately. The law requires the state to start licensing businesses in 2020. Licensed medical marijuana businesses will be allowed to apply for recreational licenses first. And state lawmakers could pass laws altering it with a three-fourths majority of both the House and the Senate.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 3)  Amid the rising number of foreigners in the country, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said it has been beefing up security and screening process at airports.

The government relies on immigration personnel at airports to prevent unwelcome or illegal aliens from entering the country. In BI counters, each foreigner is grilled to make sure the visitor will not be a source of concern.

"(They're asked) 'Anong gagawin mo dito (What will you do here)? Where will you stay? Who are you going to visit?' Kapag may inconsistencies sa sagot ng foreign national ine-exclude natin dahil threat sa ating bansa," BI spokesperson Dana Krizia Mengote-Sandoval said.

But with the big volume of Chinese nationals wanting to enter the country, immigration officials are having difficulty processing their entry.

One major challenge is the language barrier. Immigration agents said a big number of Chinese nationals don't speak English and this makes the process difficult.

"Usual question is how long will you be staying here. So 'pag ang passenger kasi is limited to answering that question that's a very important question, it goes a long way e," NAIA Terminal 3 Immigration officer TJ David said.

Immigration officials have placed interpreters in international airports to cope with the surge of Chinese tourists, which have grown to 1.6 million this year. This is one of BI's efforts to determine if they are really entering as tourists.

From January to October, immigration authorities rejected the entry of around 3,000 foreigners because they failed immigration screening. Chinese nationals comprise the biggest chunk at 66 percent or 1,811 Chinese, followed by Indian nationals at 12 percent.

"If a passenger is posing as tourist and we cannot establish their financial capacity, their admissibility, preparedness nila, mental capacity to be staying in the Philippines, 'yun ang grounds sa exclusion," (that's the grounds for exclusion) David said.

Immigration officials said the bigger concern is going after foreigners who engage in illegal activities once they get in. They enter the country with a valid tourist visa and complete documents, but despite rigid screening, a number of them are caught illegally working or operating an illegal business. The Labor Department revealed that most Chinese tourists in the country convert their visa to work visa.

BI is facing more challenges. They only have less than 2,000 personnel nationwide to monitor the movements of all foreigners.

Mengote-Sandoval, the BI spokesperspon, said the main problem is foreigners arriving on tourists visas with the intention to work. She said some of them present complete documents already issued by foreign posts.

During a Senate panel hearing on an immigration bill on last November 27, officials admitted the lack of technology to assess a possible questionable alien entering the country. They are calling on the public to help in the crackdown against foreigners involved in illegal activities.Donald Trump and Xi Jinping

Chinese shares, commodities and the yuan currency jumped on December 3rd after Chinese and U.S. leaders agreed to a temporary truce in their bitter trade war, but the longer-term outlook for trade relations remains murky.

The deal between Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping postponed the most pressing threat to the global and Chinese economies - a sharp hike in U.S. tariffs that had been slated for Jan. 1.

But analysts cautioned it has only bought a bit more time for wrangling over deeply divisive trade and policy differences, and said China's economy will continue to cool regardless under the weight of weakening domestic demand.

Still, the news offered some relief for the country's battered stock markets, which had tumbled over 20 percent at one point this year, prompting a flurry of support measures.

At the midday break, China's benchmark Shanghai Composite index was 2.9 percent higher and blue-chip shares surged 3.1 percent.

Government bond futures fell as shares rallied, with the 10-year treasury futures for March delivery, the most-traded contract, falling 0.26 percent at the open. It was last down 0.07 percent at 96.630.

Shares in Hong Kong also jumped, with the Hang Seng index adding 2.7 percent at midday, and breaking through the 27,000 level for the first time since Oct. 4. The China Enterprises Index is 2.8 percent higher at midday.

"This is a relief rally. The markets are oversold. I don't think we needed much of an excuse (for a rebound)," said Paul Kitney, chief equity strategist at Daiwa Capital Markets in Hong Kong.

The agreement "is not a ceasefire, it's just a de-escalation. The existing tariffs are still having a negative impact on the Chinese economy, they haven't gone away."

The White House said Beijing had agreed to buy an unspecified but "very substantial" amount of agricultural, energy, industrial and other products. It said the two sides would launch new talks to address issues including technology transfer, intellectual property and non-tariff barriers.

But the White House also said the existing 10 percent tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods would be lifted to 25 percent if no deal was reached within 90 days.

China praised the "important consensus" reached in the deal, but did not mention the 90-day deadline.

Despite the differences in the wording and uncertainty about some details, the agreement was a better outcome than investors had expected, said Zhang Gang, an analyst at China Central Securities in Shanghai.

At the same time, the outcome of the meeting is "unlikely to immediately spark a turnaround in market sentiment," he said.

"While this means the effect of the trade war may pause for a moment, we're still facing domestic issues including slowing growth, and awaiting more information about the direction of macroeconomic policy and eagerly expected measures like tax cuts."

In onshore trade, the yuan was trading at 6.9174 per dollar at midday, after opening at 6.9278. It has lost more than 6 percent of its value so far this year as trade ties deteriorated and the U.S. dollar firmed.

The offshore yuan firmed to as high as 6.8950, and was trading at 6.9110 at midday.

"The impact on the yuan was very positive, and has prompted many market participants building up long positions in the Chinese unit," said a trader at a foreign bank in Shanghai. "Such positive sentiment won't fade very soon . (the 90-day) period is not short, it's long enough to soothe market sentiment."

Ken Cheung, senior Asia FX strategist at Mizuho Bank in Hong Kong, was less optimistic.

"The gap between China and the U.S. remains quite wide, and it is very difficult for them to reach a comprehensive deal in 90 days," Cheung said, adding that he doesn't see "much further movement" for the rebound.

Commodities also rallied on hopes of thawing relations. Prices of Chinese steel products and steelmaking ingredients soared more than 6 percent.

"We are expecting China to buy more LNG, LPG, corn and soybean to step up imports from U.S," said Michael Mao, energy analyst with consultancy China Sublime Information Group. "(The) government is also likely to issue a new import tax on these products to facilitate imports."

But some analysts cautioned about reading too much into Monday's rally.

"The fundamentals haven't changed," said Ben Kwong, director of research at KGI Asia in Hong Kong, referring to the day's gains.

"Worries about the trade war have subsided, so investors are shifting their focus back to other things, like a stronger renminbi (or) a lower pace of rate hikes from the Fed."

China's factory activity grew slightly in November, a private survey showed on Monday, but new export orders shrank at a faster pace and manufacturers reported they were cutting prices amid soft domestic demand.

The downbeat readings backed Friday's official PMI survey for November which showed growth in the nation's vast factory sector had effectively stalled.live bse live

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HDFC Bank will revert to the previous version of its mobile application (app) by December 4 as it works to resolve a technical glitch in the new version launched last week.

"The company is trying to get it done by Monday evening itself," an executive said.

The bank had launched the updated version about six days ago but malfunctioned ever since. The issue was possibly triggered while updating the app when the older version of the app was overwritten and a lot of customers could use neither the old nor the new app, which was malfunctioned.

Sources told Moneycontrol the bank is still figuring out the reasons for the technical issue which left almost over six lakh customers unable to make any mobile banking transactions through its new app.

To provide the irked customers immediate access to mobile banking services, HDFC Bank has decided to temporarily make the older version available.

The bank will specifically communicate this to the customers latest by Tuesday morning.

Countrys second largest private bank by assets, HDFC Bank clarified there has been no data breach, loss of customer data or security issues with the bank's mobile and net banking applications.

"All the customers data and money remain safe. We understand it is our fault and can be an embarrassment and a prestige issue for the bank. But our technical team is on it, trying to resolve the inconvenience as soon as possible. In the interim, the old app will be made available and once the new app is fully ready, we will make it available," a spokesperson from the bank said.

HDFC Bank has about 4.3 crore customers and about 1.5 percent or about 6.5 lakh customers were left stranded and could not use any of the mobile banking app services.

According to the banks investor presentation from 2018, nearly 85 percent of the bank's customers use its net banking and mobile app services.

The bank, through its Twitter handle, had on November 29 issued a statement saying users, who moved to the apps new version and deleted the old one, will not be able to use mobile banking till further notice. It has not revealed the reason why the mobile app malfunctioned.

After the issue occurred, HDFC Banks customers started complaining about the malfunction in the updated mobile app, launched last week. On December 1, the app was taken off Google's Play Store and Apple's iOS Store.

Customers complained that when they tried the mobile app, an error message would pop up, "Sorry we are experiencing heavy load. Please use net banking. Regret the inconvenience." And when they logged onto net banking, another error message would pop up, "This is facility is currently unavailable. We apologise for the inconvenience."Dilip Shanghvi | Founder and MD of Sun Pharmaceuticals: USD 12.8 billion | (Image: Reuters)

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Sun Pharma, facing questions over its corporate governance practices, said it follows high level of corporate governance and is even ready to evaluate some of the structures and transactions to assuage concerns of the investors.

The drug maker's shares on December 3 dropped 7.52 percent to close at Rs 455.30 earlier in the day on concerns over corporate governance.

"Some of the issues are not related to Sun Pharma, some issues are factually incorrect and some issues are very old dating back as much as 10-15 years old. Let me reinforce that we follow high level of coporate governance at Sun Pharma, which is expected from a global company of our size," said Dilip Shanghvi, Managing Director of Sun Pharma, referring to a note circulated by Australian brokerage house Macquarie to investors.

Shanghvi further added that the company is constantly evaluating how to further strengthen corporate governance to meet investor expectation and also changing regulatory environment.

On loans worth $250 million to non-related parties, Shanghvi said he will not be able to give more details at this stage, but said it is a structured transaction and loans were given to pharmaceutical related activities on commercial terms at market rates.

Shanghvi said the company will wind-up these transactions, if shareholders aren't happy.

On the whistleblower's compliant Shanghvi said he has not received any query from SEBI on the complaint.

A PTI report, quoting sources, said SEBI plans to reopen the investigation into the insider trading case against the company and its promoters that was settled through the consent mechanism.

Sun Pharma, along with its Managing Director Dilip Shanghvi, and nine others had settled the insider trading probe, paying Rs 18 lakh against the settlement charges in 2017.

The whistleblower alleged that Sun Pharma promoter have gained around Rs 8000 crore through insider trading.

Shanghvi rejected the allegations and said the company hasnt been involved in any insider trading norm violation relating Ranbaxy deal.

However he added there was some minor technical issue relating to a procedural aspect of trading window closure due to intervening holidays.

This case was settled with SEBI without admission of guilt, in accordance with the provisions of the applicable law and the matter was closed. Also important to note that none of the insiders traded in Sun Pharma stock were not announced, Shanghvi said.

On Aditya Medisales Limited (AML)  the company owned by Sun Pharma promoters that undertook the companys domestic formulation business, Shanghvi said the relationship with AML is on an arms-length basis and was entered to make the company tax efficient.

Shanghvi said the shareholders have benefited with this arrangement through single digit tax rate, but the company is open to change the arrangement with AML, following investors' concerns.

Sun Pharma said it may consider taking over the distribution directly or buy AML.

The financials of AML doesn't enjoy any significant profitability.

On alleged real estate guarantees given to Suraksha Realty, a firm promoted by Sudhir Valia, Whole Time Director of Sun Pharma , Shanghvi said the company has never given any loan or guarantee at any point to the said entity. Valia is brother-in-law of Shanghvi.

When asked why a little known London-based firm Jermyn Capital was selected to manage Sun Pharma's $275 million foreign convertible bond issue back in 2004-07, Shanghvi said that JP Morgan was the lead manager of the FCCB issue and also at that time, Sun Pharma was only a Rs 1100 crore company, which is 3 percent of its current turnover.

"In the last 10 years regulatory scenario has changed, so to apply these things retrospectively will put unreasonable burden on us. The law that we follow, is the current law. If tomorrow we grow bigger things will change again, I want you to factor this as a business reality," Shanghvi said.

Jermyn's Indian arm allegedly has links with Ketan Parekh and Dharmesh Doshi, two traders who have come under scrutiny for the market crash of 2002.Q20. Sir Chhotu Ram was the originator of the concept of compensating the farmer for at least the expenses incurred by him on farming. The concept has now evolved into 'Minimum Support Price'. What was his most famous creation?

An Australian university is planning to invest AUD 5 million as a part of a collaboration with agricultural universities across India, to leverage research and innovations that may help Indian farmers double their income by 2022, varsity officials said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged to double the income of farmers of India over the next five years, said Western Sydney University (WSU) Vice Chancellor Barney Glover.

However, he noted that achieving this goal will require innovation and development, as well as grassroot problem solving for farmers.

Australia's WSU has forged a partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and thirteen state agricultural universities as part of a new initiative designed to combat global food security issues presented by climate change.

The university will invest AUD 5 million to leverage new research and developments, which is expected to make a significant contribution towards doubling farmers' income over the long term.

The research will focus on the areas of protected cropping and related aspects of horticulture and agriculture, as well as collaborative teaching and learning.

"India and Australia share some challenges in building a protected cropping industry -- so we will have similar research questions," WSU Vice Chancellor Barney Glover told PTI in an interview here.

The two countries share similar climates. We have monsoonal areas, very arid areas -- the challenges of broad agriculture are similar in many ways, Glover said. However, Glover points out that India has an added complexity.

"Ninety nine per cent of Indian farmers have less than five hectares of land," he said.

"Work is going on in Pune to identify the range of recommendations to double the income of the small farmers particularly. It is those with small holdings -- less than a hectare -- that are struggling to earn a living," he added.

"To help the farming community diversify their revenue, WSU is working with ICAR on a bee-keeping project that involves women.

"Bees are very important to the environment, to pollination, for crops and biodiversity of the planet. There are ways to develop an economic base from bee-keeping," Glover said.

Certain varieties of bees are crucial to protected cropping -- as pollination inside the greenhouse is challenging. Currently, both India and Australia uses hand pollination, an expensive and time consuming process, Glover said.

"Touching on bee-keeping is one element of bringing a diversification of revenue into the community. By introducing more crops, and adding livestock small farmers can better manage the volatility in the climate and market," he said.

With ICAR and the state universities across the country, WSU will work to upskill industry and train early career academics through joint research training programs in horticulture and agriculture.

"Collaborative research between ICAR and WSU will bring together researchers, academics and students from partnering institutions and provide them with a platform to benefit from mutual expertise," said Trilochan Mohapatra, Director General of ICAR.

The network includes top state agricultural universities of Haryana, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Kashmir, West Bengal, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu ,and Kerala.

According to Glover, support of local agricultural institutes is essential in helping farmers adopt new methods and approaches to farming.

"The students in these universities often come from families involved in agriculture. It provides an opportunity to influence the families to adopt successful agricultural strategies," Glover said.

The collaboration will equip students of various academic backgrounds to bring about new innovations in the field of agriculture and crop protection.The final placement season at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT), across over 20 locations in the country, has begun on a positive note. In merely two days since the start of the process, more than 1,800 positions have been offered to students with technology companies offering the maximum number of jobs.

Average salaries are in the Rs 13-15 lakh range across campuses, similar to last year. The highest domestic package is around Rs 47 lakh and the highest international package is around Rs 1.5 crore.

However, placement officials told Moneycontrol that the average salary packages offered were similar to last year, with some exceptions offering 3-5 percent higher than last year. Across campuses, Microsoft has turned out as the largest recruiter in terms of job offers (as of December 2).

The placement process that began across IITs on December 1 will continue till the end of the month. Students can also opt out of the placement process to pursue entrepreneurship. Students are also eligible for pre-placement offers (PPOs). This means that if a student has performed very well during their summer internship with a company, the company may be ready to absorb them for a full-time position after they complete their course.

Take IIT Roorkee for instance. In the midnight slot of the first day of placements, the institute received 215 offers from 10 companies, including 150 PPOs. The engineering institute also received seven international offers. A total of 1,354 students registered for placements across departments this year.

Participant companies for the midnight slot include Microsoft, AQR Capital Management, DE Shaw India, Goldman Sachs Services, Google, JPMorgan Chase & Co, Quantitative Research, among others.

On Day 1, Microsoft made 22 offers including three international placements. It also offered nine PPOs taking the tally to 31 offers. The highest salary in the domestic category was Rs 47 lakh and the international package offered was Rs 1.5 crore.

At IIT Madras, a total of 85 offers were made by 19 companies during the first session of Phase I placements. This includes six international offers as well.

The big recruiters -- Microsoft, Google and Apple. McKinsey, The Boston Consulting Group and Bain & Co -- made 13 offers in the first session. Microsoft made the highest number of offers, 25 for three profiles. The other recruiters with large selections were Goldman Sachs (7) and Apple (8).

Also, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) have already recruited four and three candidates, respectively, thereby taking the total offers in the first session to 92.

In the second slot of placements, 23 companies with 48 profiles are scheduled to participate. These companies include Airbus, Shell, JP Morgan, Star India, Intel, Qualcomm and General Electric.

Manu Santhanam, Advisor, Training and Placement, IIT Madras, said, We had premier companies in the first slot, which made a large number of offers to our candidates. The number of finance/analytics offers has been excellent in the first slot, with 29 offers being made by such firms. With the high profile recruiters in the next slot, we hope to improve on our Day 1 numbers as compared to last year.

More than 1,300 students are registered for placement this year from IIT Madras across different streams of study. There are more than 490 profiles from nearly 326 companies that are planning to visit campus in the first phase of placements that lasts until December 8.

At IIT Bombay, 21 companies participated in the process on Day 1. For domestic roles, the highest numbers of offers were made by Microsoft, Qualcomm, BCG, Strategy and Cairn. The maximum international offers were made by NEC Japan, Microsoft, Optiver, Rubrik, Cohesity and Uber.

Among sectors, prominent hiring was undertaken by core engineering, IT/software, finance and consulting. IIT Bombay expects more state-run entities to participate during the remainder of the placement season.

The institute in a statement said the number of offers whose salary is greater than Rs 25 lakh is more than last year. However, it refused to reveal the number of such companies.

For Day 1, the highest domestic offer was made by Blackstone at Rs 45 lakh per annum. Among international offers, Microsoft made the highest offer of $164,000 (about Rs 1.14 crore) per annum. The prominent sectors that hired include core engineering, IT/software, finance and consulting.

IIT Hyderabad started the placement season for 2018-19 on a robust note with 14 offers received from three companies during the first session. The institute also received four international offers from companies like Works Applications, SMS Datatech and Softbank.

Around 130 companies registered for Phase 1 of placements. A total of 418 students have registered for placements across departments this year.

Prominent first-time companies this year include: Softbank, Mercari, Toyota Research and Toshiba. Traditional recruiters such as Flipkart, Amazon, Samsung, Xilinx, Qualcomm, Maruti, ISRO, GE and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).

Amit Acharyya, Acting Faculty-in-charge of Placements, IIT Hyderabad, said, We are witnessing an increased participation from Japanese companies. As a result of our collaboration with Japan and their institutes, around 14 companies are visiting this season to hire IIT Hyderabad students.

The process of recruitment follows companies making a presentation followed by students sitting for placements. Companies use a mix of traditional interviews as well as coding tests for specialised positions. Depending on the type of job, multiple levels of interviews are also held.Contrary to popular perception, not all students who register for the placement get a job. For instance, at IIT Bombay, about 1,117 students of the 1,497 participating students got placed (74.72 percent) in last years placement process. Similarly, at IIT Madras about 70.05 percent of the students who registered for placement received a job offer.India needs large home-grown banks with sizeable scale and asset size for which the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) needs to change the existing ownership rules, a swadeshi think-tankCentre for Economic Policy Research (CEPR)has said in a new paper.

Most countries with large domestic economy have a strong presence of domestically owned and managed banks. Why not India?, CEPR said in a paper entitled Indian Banks, Indian Challenges, Indian Solutions.

This requires a more benign regulator, the CEPR paper said.

It is important for an alignment of a bank with its countrys objectives- such alignment starts from a deep-rooted passion for nation building and which has a long -term vision. Such passion and dedication are typical of entrepreneurs who are domestic, the paper said.

India regulates the banking sector through a cap on voting rights (defined in the Banking Regulation Act), and also through ownership caps (through RBIs administrative circulars).

RBIs universal banking guidelines state that promoters holding in banks should progressively come down to 15 percent within 15 years of starting operations. The rationale for such an approach is that a widely held/diverse ownership would lead to better governance through lack of concentration of power in the bank.

Promoters voting rights are capped, implying that promoter group cannot `control the board or push through decisions even if it enjoys greater shareholding.

The CEPR paper, however, called for a change in the RBIs diversified ownership norms, arguing that on most occasions private bank promoters end up diluting their shareholding in favour of foreign investors who now are majority owners of many Indian private banks.

It has asked the RBI to put its circular on dilution of owners equity stake in private banks in abeyance and immediately set up a committee to relook and re-examine the economic ownership issue.

RBI should not be aggravating the economic ownership situation further by pushing for significant dilution by promoters to as low as 15 percent. A higher limit of 26 per cent in consonance with the voting cap is recommended, it said.

The foreign ownership in HDFC bank is 72 percent, ICICI Bank is 60 percent, Aixs Bank is 52 percent, IndusInd Bank is 73 percent and Kotak Bank is 47 percent, the CEPR paper said.

In the current global scenario, it is dangerous to rest the ownership of private sector banks in the hands of foreign entities, it said.

Indias banking system is predominantly owned by the government, followed by the foreigners and the least by Indians. The share of public sector banking will come down, and under the current policy, that space will be occupied irrevocably by foreigners-owned banks unless there is a policy change, the CEPR paper said.

Instead of bringing in multiple regulations, the RBI may look act activity-based regulations rather than entity-based framing of rules, it said.Suresh Prabhu

The commerce ministry has roped in three external institutions--IIM Bangalore, Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER), and Centre for Regional Trade (CRT)to prepare a detailed report and assess the economic impact of the proposed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) trade deal.

The agencies are expected to submit the report by January, 2019 and will be considered to decide the course of actions related to the mega trade deal that is expected to conclude next year, a senior government official said.

The changes will be applicable to current and future FTAs, while in case of existing agreements, changes will be made during its review, the official said.

The economic and trade policy think-tanks are expected to talk to the industry, including exporters, importers, manufacturers, among others, for their inputs and feedback.

Barriers to trade, in form of import restriction is eventually removed when a free trade agreement is signed among trading nations to mainly increase exchange of goods and services.

RCEP is a proposed free trade agreement among 16 countries. This includes 10-member 10 member countries from Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) block--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 trade deal aims to cover goods, services, investments, economic and technical cooperation, competition and intellectual property rights.

India already has a free trade agreement with ASEAN, Japan and South Korea and it is negotiating similar pacts with Australia and New Zealand.

The government has set up four-member group of ministers (GoM) headed by commerce minister Suresh Prabhu to advise Prime Minister Narendra Modi on RCEP-related negotiations as it faced opposition on the deal from several ministries.

India is pushing for liberalising norms to promote services trade as the sector accounts for about 55 percent of Indias Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and is looking for a balance trade agreement as it would cover 40 percent of the global GDP and over 42 percent of worlds population.

(The headline of the earlier version of the story inadvertently mentioned IIM-C instead of IIM-B. The error is regretted)An exterior view of Life Insurance Corporation of India's (LIC) headquarters is seen in Mumbai September 18, 2014. LIC Chairman S. K. Roy said he was "very bullish" about the banking, pharmaceutical, metals and IT outsourcing sectors because of expectations for a cyclical recovery and a stabilising rupee currency. Roy added LIC was headed for a "very good year", both in terms of its market investments and its core insurance business. The chairman said he expected growth of 12 percent in insurance premiums this fiscal year, in line with 13.4 percent last year. REUTERS/Danish Siddiqui (INDIA - Tags: BUSINESS) - GM1EA9I1C5401

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The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has Rs 4,136.7 crore worth of pension investments in 'D'-rated debt instruments.

According to public disclosures made by LIC at the end of the September quarter, IL&FS and its financial services arm accounted for Rs 310.39 crore on the balance sheet of its pension business.

The life insurer had a balance sheet of Rs 17,176.53 crore in its pension fund business at the end of Q2.

Companies that have seen a ratings downgrade of their debt papers where LIC has an exposure, include Reliance Communications, Jaiprakash Associates, Amtek Auto, Jindal Steel & Power, Hindustan Construction Company and Gammon India, among others.

Last year, at the end of Q2, LIC had Rs 4,026.31 crore worth of 'D'-rated debt instruments.

Here, the names of the companies on the list were largely the same, except last year's list did not feature IL&FS entities and included Bhushan Steel.

LIC discloses the name of downgraded investments in its pension portfolio on an annual basis.

LIC did not respond to an email by Moneycontrol.

Infographics by Ritesh Presswala

Instruments that have a 'D' rating are already in default or are expected to default in the near future. Due to this, they are considered highly risky investments.

IL&FS debt crisis

Both IL&FS and IL&FS Financial Services had their credit ratings downgraded in the quarter gone by. From a rating of 'AAA', they were downgraded to 'D' in September.

IL&FS' papers were downgraded by rating agencies due to concerns around the infrastructure lending major defaulting on a series of debt instruments.

This was followed by fears in the market that the group will not be able to fulfill its debt obligations.

The IL&FS group has a cumulative debt of Rs 91,000 crore. The first signs of trouble in the group emerged in June when it defaulted on inter-corporate deposits and commercial papers (borrowings) worth about Rs 450 crore.

Over the next three months, rating agencies also downgraded the company's long-term ratings.

Among its group companies, financial services arm IL&FS Financial Services also defaulted on interest payment on commercial papers four times in September.

In October, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) approved the supersession of IL&FS' board by government nominees, saying mismanagement at the crisis-ridden financier makes it a fit case for superseding of the board under Article 241 of the Companies Act.

Investing in risky papers

The insurance regulator had earlier said that insurers should be aware of the risks associated in investing in low-rated debt instruments, considering the funds invested come from policyholders' accounts.

Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) Chairman Subhash Khuntia had also said that when an investment gets downgraded, an insurer should retrieve the maximum possible amount and invest it elsewhere.

He was responding to a query on LIC's exposure to defaulting entities like IL&FS.

Correction: A previous version of this article erronously stated the investments mentioned in the article belonged to LIC Pension Fund, a separate entity from LIC. The error is regretted.Pen manufacturer Flair Writing Industries and Assam-based Neccon Power and Infra have received markets regulator SEBI's go ahead to float initial public offerings. With this, the total number of companies getting clearance from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has reached 75 this year so far.

Neccon Power and Flair Writing filed their IPO papers with SEBI in September and obtained the regulator's 'observations' on November 29 and November 30 respectively, according to the latest update with the capital markets watchdog.

SEBI's observations are necessary for any company to launch public issues such as initial public offer (IPO), follow-on public offer (FPO) and rights issue.

Flair Writing's IPO comprises equity shares of face value of Rs 10 each aggregating up to Rs 450 crore. This include fresh issue of shares aggregating up to Rs 330 crore and an offer for sale of up to Rs 120 crore.

The company plans to utilise proceeds from the fresh issue for the purchase of machinery, constructing new factory buildings and related facilities at manufacturing plant at Valsad in Gujarat, funding working capital requirements, repayment/pre-payment of debt and for general corporate purposes.

The firm may consider issuing and allotting up to 7 lakh equity shares on a private placement basis for cash consideration aggregating up to Rs 50 crore.

Axis Capital Ltd and Edelweiss Financial Services Ltd are the book running lead managers to the issue.

The company's flagship brand "Flair" was introduced in 1976. Its products are sold under principal brands Flair, Hauser and Pierre Cardin, Rudi Kellner and Landmark.

Neccon Power's initial share-sale issue will see sale of up to 1.27 crore shares.

Funds raised will be utilised for the working capital requirements and general corporate purposes.

PL Capital Markets will manage Neccon's initial share-sale.

Neccon Power is engaged in the power transmission and distribution sector and provides engineering, procurement and construction services.

: The number of shares will be sold by Neccon Power was wrongly mentioned as 1.27 lakh stocks. It has now been corrected to 1.27 crore equity shares.After trading around the flat line for a greater part of the session, equity benchmarks have ended in the green. The Nifty failed to close above 10,900, though.

Trade truce between US and China, along with a global metals rally shored up equity markets in the opening trade. Midcaps followed suit as well. However, soon after the morning session, selling among financials, pharmaceuticals and index heavyweights weighed on indices.

A rise in crude oil prices due to trade truce and a resultant strengthening of dollar could have impacted the market. Additionally, investors are likely to have taken note of lower GDP data for Q2.

Consumption, IT, metals and PSU banks were the big gainers, while the Nifty Midcap index outperformed frontline indices.

Pharmaceuticals were the big losers, with the Nifty Pharma ending over 2 percent lower.

At the close of market hours, the Sensex was up 46.70 points or 0.13% at 36241.00, while the Nifty was higher by 7.00 points or 0.06% at 10883.80. The market breadth was narrow as 1,328 shares advanced, against a decline of 1,263 shares, while 160 shares were unchanged.

Yes Bank, HUL, and Indiabulls Housing gained the most, while Sun Pharma, M&M, and HPCL were the top losers.

"Markets remained volatile and settled almost flat for second consecutive session, tracking mixed cues. The beginning was upbeat, thanks to firm global cues but caution ahead of RBI's monetary policy review meet triggered profit taking as the session progressed. Mostly sectoral indices traded in tandem with the benchmark index and closed flat," Jayant Manglik, President, Religare Broking said in a statement.

Stocks in the news

Shares of metal companies such as Hindalco and Vedanta, among others, ended 4 percent higher. Investors placed positive bets on rally in Shanghai and London metals markets after US and China agreed to have a truce in its trade dispute.

Shares of Motherson Sumi soared 6 percent as investors cheered a buzz of China agreeing to cut tariffs on cars coming in from US, as tweeted by US President Donald Trump.

TVS Motor reported a growth of 27 percent in its sales for November at 3.19 lakh units against 2.51 lakh units that the company sold in November 2017. The stock, however, ended a percent lower.

Share price of pharma major Sun Pharmaceutical Industries plunged 7.5 percent after news reports of SEBI likely to reopen the investigation into the insider trading case against the company and its promoters.

Shares of Shankara Building Products locked at 10 percent lower circuit after IDFC Securities downgraded the stock to underperform from neutral.

Share price of Glenmark Pharma added 5 percent as broking house Nomura has maintained buy rating and increased target to Rs 850 from Rs 825 per share.

Tata Motors shares gained more than 2 percent despite a fall in November sales on low consumer sentiments.

Ashok Leyland shares declined 4.5 percent after sales in the month of November were below analysts' expectations.

Tata Power climbed 8 percent and Adani Power gained 4 percent after a relief from Gujarat government that decided to increase tariffs of three coal-based power plants.

Prabhat Dairy shares plunged gained a percent after falling 17.5 percent after Tata Sons Board rejected the proposal to buy the company.

NIIT shares rallied nearly 8 percent after a media report indicated that promoters look to exit software services business which runs under NIIT Technologies.

Mahindra and Mahindra shares fell 4 percent after November tractor sales missed estimates and the company acquired Carnation brand.

Reliance Communications shares surged 16 percent after the subsidiary submitted corporate guarantee to Department of Telecommunications.

Hindustan Unilever shares gained 4 percent after the company decided to merge Glaxosmithkline Consumer Healthcare with itself.

Global Markets

Stocks in Asia saw gains after US and China agreed to a trade truce. The Shanghai composite gained 2.57 percent to close at around 2,654.80 while the Shenzhen composite advanced 3.275 percent to end the trading day at about 1,381.55.

European stocks rallied on the back of US-China trade talks as well. Stoxx 600 was up more than 2 percent during early morning deals.Motherson Sumi Systems | The stock closed at Rs 112.55 on November 5, 2020. Its 50-DMA: Rs 112.54, which was above their 200-DMA: Rs 100.61.

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Shares of Motherson Sumi soared over 6 percent on Monday morning as investors cheered the development of China agreeing to cut tariffs on cars coming in from US.

The company is a frontline automobile ancillary and has strong presence in the US. This development, hence, comes as a positive outcome for the stock.



China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%.

 Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 3, 2018

The stock touched an intraday high of Rs 166.00 and an intraday low of Rs 154.65.

Further, CLSA maintained an outperform rating on Motherson Sumi, but cut its target to Rs 180 from Rs 223.

It noted that Indian business is in a soft patch, but the overall outlook is still positive.

The weak European demand is hurting the company, but new plant ramp-up will offer a cushion.

It has reduced FY19-21 EPS estimates by 7-14 percent and sees further downside to consensus estimates.

At 10:36 hrs Motherson Sumi Systems was quoting at Rs 165.90, up Rs 10.25, or 6.59 percent, on the BSE.

The above report is compiled from information available on public platforms. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.Etion's Teddy Daka and Absa's Jacques Barkhuizen have been named SA's IT Personality and Visionary CIO of the Year at the SA IT industry's top annual awards.

L to R: IITPSA President Ulandi Exner with winner of the IT Personality of the year Award 2018, Teddy Daka, Group CEO and major shareholder at Etion Limited, and 2017 recipient - Shashi Hansjee, CEO of Entelect.

The annual Institute of Information Technology Professionals SA (IITPSA) 2018 Presidents Awards celebrate the countrys leading lights in ICT. With two new awards introduced in 2018, the event recognised five individuals and projects worthy of the industrys top accolades.The IT Personality of the Year Award  IITPSAs oldest award, which is now in its 40th year  was awarded to Teddy Daka, Group CEO and major shareholder at Etion Limited. A global businessman, academic and philanthropist, Daka turned Etion from a loss-making engineering firm to a profitable AltX-listed digital technology business. He also founded Tedaka Investments and serves as the Global Chair of Aurecon.In accepting the award, Daka noted, Im just the guy in front. Behind me, theres a collective of over 400 people at Etion working to enhance humanity through technology.Jacques Barkhuizen, Absa CIO for Virtual Channels/Digital Banking, received IITPSAs Visionary CIO award for 2018. Barkhuizens career spans over 28 years and includes serving as CIO of Deloitte Africa, Global CTO of Investec Bank, and CTO for Woolworths. He currently leads the Absa retail digital transformation journey and has been instrumental in the step change experienced across all digital channels in the past three years, including the world first Chatbanking on WhatsApp.Barkhuizen also hailed the team behind him, noting on the sidelines of the event: As a CIO we can all have ideas, but without the team, they stay just that  ideas.IITPSA also presented its lifetime award for Distinguished Service in ICT to Dr Jackie Phahlamohlaka, renowned academic, Competency Area Manager at the CSIR and former Chair of Technical Committee 9 (TC9) of the International Federation for Information Processing (IFIP). His work on the use of ICT in peace and war continues to draw much academic interest in South Africa and internationally.The new Technology Excellence Award, presented to a person or team who has made exceptional or innovative use of technology for an organization, went to Benji Coetzee, founder of EmptyTrips. A Forbes 2018 top female-led technologist, Coetzee launched EmptyTrips in 2017, using AI, network strategies and shared economy principles to pair cargo with empty spaces, democratise freight transport across road, rail, air and sea, and to improve profits and contribute to saving the planet.The new Social Responsibility/Community Award, for a person, team or project that delivers the benefits of IT on a not-for-profit basis into the community or brings the community into the IT space, was awarded to Project Isizwe, headed by Dudu Mkhwanazi. Project Isizwe is a non-profit that partners with public and private sector organisations to deploy free Wi-Fi hotspots in low-income communities. The organisation pioneered the deployment of the largest free public Wi-Fi network in Africa in Tshwane and connected two mining communities to free Wi-Fi in partnership with Glencore Mine in Emalahleni.The winner, and all the finalists for the 2018 IITPSA Presidents Awards are all unique and inspirational, said IITPSA President Ulandi Exner. These are ITs superheroes.IITPSA CEO Tony Parry echoed the sentiment, saying: All of this years finalists are already top achievers in their respective areas.Speaking from Zurich, 2017s Visionary CIO, Alec Joannou, congratulated this years winners, noting that South Africans can compete with the best in the world in the ICT arena. The former Sasol CIO and CDO is now the global CIO of ABB, based in Zurich.Winner of the IT Personality of the Year Award in 2017, Shashi Hansjee, CEO of Entelect, said the IITPSA Presidents Awards process, and his win, had given him pause to reflect on the need for ICT stakeholders to become more involved in helping the next generation of ICT professionals to emerge. We can turn the tide of transformation, he said.The IITPSA Presidents Awards are presented in association with ITWeb, the Gordon Institute of Business Science, Gartner South Africa and Engineer IT (EE Publishers).December 03, 2018 / 03:34 PM IST

Market at Close After trading around the flat line for a greater part of the session, equity benchmarks have ended in the green. The Nifty failed to close above 10,900, though.

Consumption, IT, metals and PSU banks were the big gainers, while the Nifty Midcap index outperformed frontline indices.

Pharmaceuticals were the big losers, with the Nifty Pharma ending over 2 percent lower.

At the close of market hours, the Sensex was up 46.70 points or 0.13% at 36241.00, while the Nifty was higher by 7.00 points or 0.06% at 10883.80. The market breadth was narrow as 1,328 shares advanced, against a decline of 1,263 shares, while 160 shares were unchanged.

Yes Bank, HUL, and Indiabulls Housing gained the most, while Sun Pharma, M&M, and HPCL were the top losers.live bse live

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Tata Power climbed 6.6 percent and Adani Power gained 3.7 percent in morning on Monday after a relief from Gujarat government that decided to increase tariffs of three coal-based power plants.

Adani Power was quoting at Rs 57.05, up 2.98 percent after hitting a 52-week high of Rs 57.45 while Tata Power Company was up 5.84 percent at Rs 80.70, at 10:28 hours IST.

The Gujarat government has directed its power distribution company to raise tariffs of the three imported coal-based power plants owned by Tata Power, Adani Power and Essar Power by amending their power purchase agreements (PPAs) and approaching the power regulators for approval, The Economic Times said.

This comes as a big relief for the three plants which together can generate about 10,000 mw but have been making heavy losses after an abrupt jump in the price of Indonesian coal and the refusal of various states to pay higher tariffs as they said the power producers were bound by the PPAs, the report added. "The matter has lingered for years as it was put up to various regulators, courts, committees, appellate authorities and governments."

Tata Power welcomed the resolution by the Government of Gujarat to accept the recommendations of the High Power Committee in giving some relief to Mundra Ultra Mega Power Project that meets nearly 23 percent of Gujarat's requirement of power at a very reasonable cost.

"This relief will help Coastal Gujarat Power Limited to continue its operations to meet its obligations to all the five beneficiary States," the company said.

It further said though the coal cost is now a pass through, it would continue to make losses due to rebate on financing cost and coal mines profit is being passed on to the beneficiary States.

Tata Power expects to get the consent of other four procurer States based on the to the recommendations of the High Power Committee's and thereafter amendment to the power purchase agreements (PPAs) so as to seek necessary approvals from CERC as per the directions of the Supreme Court.The market started off last month of the calendar year on a flat note Monday as traders maintained cautious stance ahead of key domestic events like RBI monetary policy and state elections results.

The Nifty50 continued to consolidate for the second consecutive session after a 400-point rally, forming small bearish candle which resembles a Hanging Man kind of pattern on the daily charts.

A Hanging Man is a bearish reversal candlestick pattern which is usually formed at the end of an uptrend or at the top. In a perfect 'Hanging Man' pattern either there will be a small upper shadow or no upper shadow at all, a small body and long lower shadow.

The Nifty continued to face resistance around 10,900 levels but failed to hold the same. Once it closes above the same levels, then 11,000 could be the next hurdle, experts said.

The index opened sharply higher at 10,930.70 and hit an intraday high of 10,941.20 in morning itself, but gradually erased gains in afternoon to hit day's low 10,845.35 followed by rangebound trade. It closed 7 points higher at 10,883.80.

"Nifty50 signed off the session with a Hanging Man kind of formation pointing towards indecisiveness of market participants," Mazhar Mohammad, Chief Strategist  Technical Research & Trading Advisory, Chartviewindia.in told Moneycontrol.

He said this kind of muted response on Indian bourses to strong global cues is clearly suggesting that Indian markets are waiting for domestic headwinds, in the form of monetary policy or state election result etc, to get cleared.

Hence, markets will continue to remain directionless for next couple of days before taking cues from the said events as short term trends are bound to get influenced by such news flows, he added.

Mazhar said technically speaking sell signals are registered on momentum oscillators of lower time frame charts suggesting caution in near term. "In next session if Nifty consistently trades below 10,840 levels for atleast one hour then on intraday basis selling pressure can be witnessed which should eventually drag down the indices towards its 200-day moving average whose value is placed around 10,746 levels."

On the upsides a strong push beyond 10,950 may take the indices towards 11,069 levels, according to him. "However, at this juncture it looks prudent for traders to adopt a neutral stance for couple of days and are advised to focus on extremely stock specific opportunities with fresh breakouts."

India VIX fell by 5.5 percent to 18.11 levels. On the options front, maximum Call open interest was seen at the 11,000 strike, followed by 10,900 and 11,100 strikes while maximum Put open interest was seen at the 10,500 strike followed by 11,000 and 10,700 strikes.

Meaningful Call writing was seen at 11,100 followed by 11,000 strike and 11,300 strikes. Put writing was seen at the strike price of 10,500 followed by 11,000 and 10,900 strikes.

Jayant Manglik, President, Religare Broking also said volatility is likely to remain high ahead of important events and data.

He advised keeping cautiously optimistic approach and focusing on stock selection. "In case of any decline, Nifty would find support around 10,750 and the next major hurdle is at 11,100," he said.live bse live

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Global brokerage firm UBS expect seven banks including private as well as PSU to give 10-50 percent return over a period of one year on double digit earnings growth ahead, but it remains bearish on Yes Bank on likely NPL recognition.

It remained bullish on largest private banks, but mixed on public sector lenders due to asset quality concerns.

The research house has a buy call on ICICI Bank with a target price at Rs 440, implying 24 percent potential return.

"ICICI provisioning may stay higher in the medium term, but the visibility on resolution under IBC is key catalysts in near term for the bank," it said.

While having a buy call HDFC Bank with a target price at Rs 2,400, UBS said the country's second largest private sector lender is well positioned to gain market share in retail liabilities business and would continue to grow its loan book mid-to-high single digit above industry.

HDFC Bank remains its preferred pick and it sees 26 percent CAGR earnings over FY18-21.

For Axis Bank, the global investment firm said NPL issue is the key near-term driver, though the bank is well placed to gain share in retail & SME segments.

Normalisation of credit costs will drive EPS CAGR of 54 percent over FY19-21 for Axis, said the brokerage house which has a buy call on the stock with a target price at Rs 740, implying 18 percent potential upside.

Kotak Mahindra Bank is uniquely placed among banks given its leadership across financial products; hence UBS said it expects earnings CAGR of 28 percent over FY18-21 for the private sector lender.

While having buy call on Bank of Baroda with a target price at Rs 160 per share, the research house said the lender is better placed than other state-owned banks on higher provision coverage. "We expect its profitability to improve sharply in FY19-20."

IndusInd Bank may continue to report strong growth and its earnings are expected to grow at 20 percent CAGR over FY18-20, the research house said while assigning neutral call on the stock with a target price at Rs 1,800 as NPL risks from its exposure to midsized companies are not fully factored in.

UBS also maintained neutral call on SBI with a price target a Rs 330 as SBI operating metrics may remain weak on low loan growth and falling margin, and its net interest margin is likely to decline due to merger with lower yielding subsidiaries.

However, the brokerage house has sell call on Yes Bank with a target price of Rs 150 (implying 12 percent potential downside) as it believes higher NPL recognition is yet to happen. Downside case target for the bank is at Rs 110, it said.

: The above report is compiled from information available on public platforms. Moneycontrol advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.Air India building, Mumbai

A silver lining in the dark cloud has finally appeared for Air India with the government approving a Rs 29,000 crore plan to halve airlines debt.

In this Moneycontrol podcast, we will try and explore the bailout package in detail but first the back story.

Once upon a time ...

That the Maharaja has fallen to hard times is old news. What is unfortunate though is that the airline in dire distress just happens to be our flag carrier, the largest international carrier out of India, the third largest domestic airline in India in terms of passengers carried, and the dream come true of founding father J. R. D. Tata who conceived it as Tata Airlines in 1932.

As is common knowledge, after World War II, it became a public limited company and was renamed as Air India. Another moment of pride came when on 21 February 1960, it took delivery of its first Boeing 707 named Gauri Shankar and became the first Asian airline to induct a jet aircraft in its fleet.

The downward spiral was long time coming because since 200001, futile attempts have been made to privatise the carrier and from 2006 onwards, following its merger with Indian Airlines, the losses have been staggering. The reasons for that are many.

In 2012, Geetanjali Shukla wrote in Business Today and we quote, "No public enterprise in recent memory epitomises the adage "The government should not be in the business of running a business" as much as Air India.

From being a market leader on domestic routes in 2001 - the operation was called Indian Airlines then, before it merged into Air India - to becoming an also-ran today, the airline makes for a case study on how not to merge two entities." Unquote.

Geetanjali listed the factors that have dragged the airline down and called out the absence of resourceful and stable leadership, a bloated headcount of 30,517 employees, lack of standardised hiring policies for the rank and file, lack of diligence on HR issues, years of losses with no turnaround visible and more.

The sad fact being that the Maharaja did so well in the 1960s and 1970s that even the fledgling Singapore Airlines dropped by to take some pointers.

But cut to the present. As has been reported widely in the past, post the government approval of the sale of a 76 percent stake in Air India, the sale has been in a state of deep freeze due to lack of buyer interest despite some amount of inquisitiveness displayed by private airlines such as IndiGo and Jet Airways.

The reason for this state of affairs is obvious. It is the classic case of a dead albatross around the neck or to put it in less poetic terms, a massive debt liability of around Rs 48,781 crore as of March 2017. What made things worse was a substantial rise in aviation turbine fuel prices (ATF) and the weakening rupee, as also the inability to raise fares in an intensely competitive sector.

Turbulent times

Air India though is not alone in its misery. In March this year, Business Today, along with many news portals, cited PTI to report that The Public Enterprises Survey after having analysed the performance of central public sector units, showed that BSNL, Air India and MTNL had incurred 55.66 percent of the total losses suffered by the top ten loss-making CPSEs in 2016-17. We quote, "The top ten loss-making state-owned firms accounted for a whopping 83.82 percent of the total losses made by 82 loss-making central public sector enterprises (CPSEs) during the year." Unquote.

The point simply being that in the time to come, you could see distress signals from more entities in the public sector but let us revert to the Air India story.

In May 2018, Prashanth Perumal, wrote in The Hindu, how Air India's debt burden was caused by accumulated losses over a decade compounded by the cost of paying interest on its massive debt. So this was a vicious circle unlike any other.

Prashanth explained further why in such a scenario, a sale seemed far-fetched and we quote, "Some analysts believe that Air India may not be worth anything to its buyers as they are unlikely to obtain any free cash flow after paying money to lenders. In fact, they may have to pay money from their own pockets if they assume personal liability for the debt." Unquote.

A solution in sight?

Finally though, a safe landing seems like a probability. Multiple news sources reported on November 30, 2018 that the Central government has decided to transfer Air India's debt worth Rs 29,000 crore to a special purpose vehicle (SPV) -- Air India Assets Holding. According to a senior official, the decision to transfer the Rs 29,000-crore debt to the SPV was taken by an inter-ministerial panel -- Air India Specific Alternate Mechanism -- which has been formed to look after the divestment of the national carrier. The move could of course lessen the interest payment obligation of the airline on its total outstanding debt.

NDTV Profit citing Indo-Asian-News Service (IANS) stated that a senior official had shared two possible ways under consideration of transferring the debt. The first involved the banks' nod to shift the owed amount to the SPV, while the other mandated the SPV to pay off the Rs 29,000 crore debt by raising funds.

Additionally, the inter-ministerial panel has decided to divest the government's stake in Air India Air Transport Services (AIATSL).

The amount raised from the divestment of AIATSL will obviously be used to retire some of the accumulated debts of Air India.

Earlier, Civil Aviation Secretary R.N. Choubey had also said that the national carrier has also commenced a "cost-cutting and revenue augmentation" plan to garner "financial benefits" of Rs 2,000 crore per annum. Which could translate into some positive initiative on the part of the inertia-ridden national carrier.

Also, any future financial support to the airline will be contingent on the results that it achieves by implementing the augmentation plan. Plus, defaulting on payment obligations is out of the question.

Desperate measures

Many other brand saving strategies are being considered. On November 20, Rhik Kundu had reported in Mint that Air India was expecting to raise as much as $850 million (about Rs 6,100 crore) by selling and leasing back seven wide-body aircraft. The list included six Boeing 787 (Dreamliner) and one Boeing 777 aircraft, which were delivered to the airline between November 2016 and March 2018, according to a tender posted on November 16 on the airlines website. A sale and leaseback (SLB) process allows the owner of an aircraft to sell the asset and then take it back on lease from the leasing company. Such deals remove the aircraft, and its associated debt, from the balance sheet of an airline.

Under the SLB, AI (Air India) would sell the above aircraft to the lessor and immediately lease the same back under an operating lease for a period of up to 12 months with an option to extend by three more years at a mutually negotiated price, the carrier said in its tender document.

The national carrier is likely to use the funds from the sale and leaseback process to pay a portion of its aircraft debt.

In August, Mint had also reported that Air India had also raised Rs 1,500 crore from Bank of Baroda (BoB) under a sovereign guarantee to service bank loans and dues of international vendors, including leasing companies.

And of course, the real estate goody bag of Air India will also come handy for the purpose of raising some much needed liquid assets.

On November 28, Business Today reported that a ministerial panel headed by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had green-lighted the sale of 27 acres of Air India's land in the capital's upmarket Vasant Vihar to public sector company NBCC. NBCC (India) Limited, as you probably know is a blue-chip Government of India Navratna enterprise and a Central Public Sector undertaking which trades publicly in the market. It engages in real estate development and construction business and also provides project management consultancy.

The Times of India also learnt that the prized 27 acres of Air India's land in the capital's upmarket Vasant Vihar to NBCC, will be used to build high-end luxury apartments. The panel reportedly also took an in-principle decision to take up the sale of a large plot on Baba Kharak Singh Marg, in Central Delhi, which can be taken up for commercial use.

TOI added that in the next phase of monetising the beleaguered airline's assets, the Centre will decide on several buildings that it owns. And as Business Today said and we quote, "The logic is clearly to get rid of all the real estate that the airline does not need. As per government estimates, the sale of AIATSL and some of the other subsidiaries, along with the monetisation of Air India's land assets, could help the debt-ridden carrier raise over Rs 10,000 crore, which will be used to repay lenders." Unquote.

And if the oil prices continue to remain stable and if its debt is reduced substantially, a successful disinvestment round could just be a possibility in the near future.

According to Civil Aviation Secretary R.N. Choubey, the aviation ministry has also requested the revenue department to put aviation turbine fuel under goods and services tax (GST) and also to address certain tax credit related issues faced by the aviation sector. Mint quoted the secretary who opined that If airlines are not in a position to service their debt, the debt burden will go up.

A few questions remain

Many observers have however wondered at the sagacity of selling Air Indias ground handling firm which just happens to be the national carriers only profitable subsidiary. According to news sources, in 2016-17, it earned a profit of Rs 33.4 crore, and over Rs 620 crore in revenues from its handling operations.

It is important to note also that in 2012, the incumbent government had promised to infuse Rs 50,000 crore in the airline till 2032. And the company has received Rs 27,195 crore till date.

In July, as Scroll reported, the Centre had sought Parliaments approval to sanction an Rs 980-crore supplementary grant for investment in equity shares for Air India during the 2018-19 financial year.

The path to recovery is on paper as of now but how long will it take and what are the hidden costs of the measures suggested, are questions we cannot answer at the moment. Keep tuning in to Money Control podcasts for more updates.Three directors of a real estate firm were arrested for allegedly diverting Rs 191 crore invested by homes buyers into its other projects and not delivering houses, an official said on December 1. They were arrested by the by the Delhi Police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW).

Hacienda Projects Pvt Ltd directors Surpreet Singh Suri, Vidur Bhardwaj and Nirmal Singh have been booked for cheating, criminal conspiracy and criminal breach of trust. They have been arrested, police said.

Based on a complaint, a case has been registered against the accused persons for not delivering the flats in a housing project named Lotus 300 in Noida 107, a senior police officer said.

Complainants in the case had alleged that the project that was to be developed by Hacienda Projects, the official said.

The project was supposed to be delivered within 39 months from the date of allotment letter. However, the houses were not delivered, the senior officer said.

Police said the firm had allegedly represented and warranted that the project will only have 300 apartments, but on a later date got plan changes from the Noida authority with mala fide intentions.

The number of apartment was increased from 300 to 336 in this project which is a violation of the terms of the Uttar Pradesh Apartment (Promotion of Construction, Ownership and Maintenance Act 2010), the senior police officer said.

Police said the project has six towers and all of it have been erected but the project has not been completed yet.

There are more than 50 victims mentioned in the FIR and the alleged company had received an amount of Rs 100 crore from the complainants, police said.

There are 328 investors and the company had received the amount to a tune of Rs 636 crore, out of which, Rs 191 crore have been diverted by the company into its subsidiary companies, police said.Angel Commodities' report on Soybean

NCDEX Dec Soybean futures slipped 2% last week mainly on profit booking due to anticipation of improving arrivals after the elections are over in major producing state of Madhya Pradesh. Prices have been steady during November on improving demand from the oil mills, as arrivals are little down. The price have been trending higher in Oct and Nov, on expectation of improving soybean and soymeal demand from China in coming months. According to senior government officials, China is likely to open its doors to soybean from India after allowing the import of non - basmati rice and raw sugar. AS per SOPA, indias soymeal exports slumped 40% on year to around 60,000 tn in October. Moreover, govt. plans to procure 44 lakh tonnes of oilseeds and pulses from farmers at MSPs in the ongoing kharif marketing season.

Outlook

Soybean futures expected to trade sideways on higher arrivals in physical market after elections are over. Government procurement at MSP and improving physical demand for new season crop from oil mills may keep prices steady.

For all commodities report, click here

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts/broking houses/rating agencies on moneycontrol.com are their own, and not that of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.



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Share price of pharma major Sun Pharmaceutical Industries plunged 10 percent in the early trade on December 3 after news reports of SEBI likely to reopen the investigation into the insider trading case against the company and its promoters.

A PTI report, quoting sources, said SEBI plans to reopen the investigation into the insider trading case against the company and its promoters that was settled through the consent mechanism.

Macquarie in its note raised several questions about corporate governance practices by the company. The note points to alleged connections with tainted entities like Ketan Parekh and Dharmesh Doshi, and the conflict of interest with regards to Sudhir Valia, a whole-time director of Sun Pharma and also the brother-in-law of promoter Dilip Shanghvi.

The note talks about real estate guarantees given to Suraksha Realty, apart from seeking clarification as to why a little known London-based firm Jermyn Capital was selected to manage Sun Pharma's $275 million foreign convertible bond issue back in 2004-07.

Jermyn's Indian arm allegedly has links with Parekh and Doshi, two traders who have come under scrutiny for the market crash of 2002.

Responding to the note, Sun Pharma said the information quoted in the note is available in public domain and is 10-15 years old. The management said it complies with corporate governance laws of the country.

Moneylife on November 30 reported that a whistle-blower had complained to market regulator SEBI alleging numerous irregularities against Sun Pharma, its main promoter Dilip Shanghvi and Sudhir Valia. Most of them were repetition of the points mentioned in the Macquarie note.

In addition, the whistle-blower alleged that during the Ranbaxy acquisition, the promoters may have gained as much as Rs 8,000 crore through insider trading.

Also Read - Why Sun Pharma finds itself in an unusual situation

Sun Pharma, along with its Managing Director Dilip Shanghvi, and nine others had settled the insider trading probe, paying Rs 18 lakh against the settlement charges in 2017.

Research house UBS has maintained buy call on Sun Pharma with a target of Rs 690 per share.

According to UBS, the whistle-blower allegations are valuation dampener at the minimum. This negatively impacts management's bandwidth at a time when key brands are getting launched.

It expects the stock to react negatively to the whistle-blower allegations.

The company will conduct a call at 06.30 pm IST on December 3 where senior management will update Investors.

Company has received final approval from USFDA for its Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) for generic version of Ganirelix Acetate Injection, 250 mcg/0.5 mL.

At 0927 hours Sun Pharmaceutical Industries was quoting at Rs 448.40, down Rs 43.90, or 8.92 percent on the BSE.Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims.

The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community.

Since the border crossing could be an easy target for "terrorists, human traffickers and drug dealers", a strong mechanism was required to keep the situation under control on both sides of the border, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Deputy Director (Punjab) Mufakhar Adeel said.

"The FIA has set up an immigration office at Kartarpur border in Narowal (some 120 kms from Lahore) in connection with the opening of Kartarpur corridor," Adeel told Dawn news.

"The FIA officers will play the role of boarding officers and check the documents of Sikh pilgrims and identify them through biometric technology. Sikh pilgrims having visas will be allowed to enter the city while those with permits will be given access to Gurudwara Darbar Sahib only," he said.

On November 28, Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone of the Kartarpur corridor.

On November 26, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Sahib corridor in Gurdaspur.

Khan said that his government and the army wanted a "civilised relationship" with India, declaring that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step.

Khan cited examples of France and Germany which fought many wars but eventually came closer for the welfare of their people.

Pakistan assured that it will keep improving the Kartarpur corridor and provide maximum facilities to the pilgrims when they visit in November, 2019 to celebrate Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary.

The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev.BJP president Amit Shah addressing people in Rajasthan ahead of elections. Image: @BJP4India

BJP president Amit Shah is leading his party's charge in Rajasthan, where it is locked in a keen battle with the Congress, by attending there over 62 public programmes, more than in any other poll-bound state.

According to BJP sources, Shah had participated in over 170 public events in the five states so far and the tally will increase as campaigning is in full swing in Telangana and Rajasthan, where voting will be held on December 7.

Polling has already taken place in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Mizoram. Counting of votes in all the five states will take place on December 11.

"Amit Shah has carried out an extensive campaign in all the five states. The public response he has received, including in Telangana and Mizoram, underlines the party's expansion and indicates the way results will go," BJP's media head and Rajya Sabha member Anil Baluni said.

In Rajasthan, where several opinion polls have given an edge to the opposition Congress over the BJP, Shah's rallies have drawn big crowds, he claimed.

"It shows which way the wind is blowing in the state," Baluni said.

According to figures collated by the BJP, Shah had undertaken a 63-day campaign in the five states till December 1. He spent 19 day in Rajasthan, 18 in Madhya Pradesh, 14 in Chhattisgarh, 10 in Telangana and two in Mizoram, travelling over 70,000 km.

BJP leaders said Shah's public programmes have been divided in rallies, road shows, meetings with different community leaders, religious and cultural events besides organisational functions.

After Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh received his maximum attention as he attended over 48 public events in the state followed by 28 in Chhattisgarh.

They, however, added that a main reason behind the party president devoting more time to Rajasthan than any other state is that it is the last state going to the polls.

Madhya Pradesh, the largest of the five states, had gone to the polls on November 28. Elections were held in two phases in Chhattisgarh on November 12 and 20.We're often faced with enthusiastic, fresh-faced young business professionals looking to get into the business of eventing, and it's encouraging to see people keen to dive into our world.

But while we can understand the draw of a career that seems to be filled with meeting celebrities and sipping champagne, the reality is far different  something that these enthusiastic new event managers quickly discover! If youre thinking of taking on a career as an event manager, our blog reveals truths you should know before you take the leap, direct from our own Worx Group Projects Team: https://www.wrxgrp.co.za/hidden-truth-being-event-planner/As many as eight new airports could soon take off in India including in states like Delhi, Maharashtra, Kolkata and Tamil Nadu, an official told Moneycontrol.

New airports in Dholera (district in Ahmedabad), Mopa (Goa), Jewar (Delhi), Navi Mumbai (Mumbai), Kolkata, Chennai, Bhubaneshwar and Pune are at various stages, the official said.

Gujarat

The official said that the Dholera airport will be a joint venture among Dholera Authority, Airports Authority of India (AAI) and Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) and will be 60-70 kilometers away from Ahmedabad.

Shareholders agreement between all the concerned parties is being worked out for Dholera he said.

Sources have indicated that AAI will hold 51 percent share, Gujarat government will hold 33 percent and DMIC will hold 16 percent share in the airport.

The new airport will see civil construction starting next financial year. Initially, the airport will have a runway of 3,000 meters and will handle up to 5.5 million passengers annually. The airport could have another runway depending on passenger traffic.

Delhi  Chennai - Kolkata

While, for the new airport in the national capital region (NCR), the official said that things are at the stage of land acquisition, dialogues are being held between concerned authorities in Kolkata and Chennai.

The new airport at Jewar in Noida has seen protests from farmers due to felling of trees, exploitation of groundwater, pollution and also, inadequate compensation for land.

Media reports, however, have suggested that the Uttar Pradesh government has agreed to release close to Rs 1,260 crore for the initial land acquisition process.

For the first phase of the airport, 1,334 hectare land is required. 1,239 hectare land from six villages (Rohi, Dayanatpur, Parohi, Kishorpur, Ranhera and Banwariwas), the report said.

The proposed airport will need 5,000 hectares of land and is expected to be operational by 2022-23. The airport will be second in the NCR after Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Odisha

We are trying for a second airport in Bhubaneshwar. The government has indicated certain sites where this can be done, the official said adding that Centre is looking at various sites where new airports can be developed.

Some states are responding well in time Some are taking time Bangalore and Hyderabad have potential for new airports. They dont have immediate problem, he said.

India has over 130 airports including 34 international airports.November 28, 2018 / 04:06 PM IST

As voting in the 40 assembly constituencies of Mizoram closed at 4 pm, here are the five key features:

1. Bru voters came out to vote in large numbers. The place of voting for 11,232 Bru voters, who are residing in neighboring Tripura, was the bone of contention, leading to the replacement of the then chief electoral officer, SB Shashank, less than two weeks ahead of the polls.

2. The Election Commission had set up pink polling booths in every constituency to woo women voters. These booths are locally known as Dingdi in Mizoram. Named after a wild flower commonly available in the state, Dingdi is used by poets to depict beautiful women.

3. Even though women voters outnumber men in the state, only 15 out of the 209 candidates were women. BJP fielded the highest number of women candidates at six.

4. The Election Commission also ensured that the disabled and the elderly get to exercise their franchise without any hurdles by arranging special provisions for them. A number of elderly voters turned out to vote, including a few centenarians.

5. All booths in the state were covered via wireless communication for the first time in Mizoram's polling history. This was done to ensure timely reporting of every development and progress of polling.Wuhan: Prime Minister Narendra Modi shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping during their meeting, in Wuhan, China on Friday. PTI Photo / PIB (PTI4_27_2018_000058B)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet on the sidelines of a G20 meeting this week, aiming to build on a thaw in ties after a military standoff on their disputed border last year, officials said.

The 3,500 km (2,200-mile) border between the nuclear-armed neighbours has been calm since Modi and Xi held several hours of talks in the Chinese city of Wuhan in April, agreeing to prevent political disputes escalating into confrontation.

Later this year, their two armies will hold joint exercises in a bid to build trust after their 73-day face-off in a remote, high-altitude stretch of the Himalayan border that stoked fears of war.

Modi's meeting with Xi at the G20 summit in Argentina will be their fourth this year, Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said.

"It was decided that they would take the opportunity whenever and wherever they could meet. They could discuss issues on either leader's mind or issues of mutual concern," Gokhale told reporters.

As well as long-standing disputes over their border, the two countries are vying for influence in the Indian Ocean and squabbling over Xis signature Belt and Road infrastructure initiative.

India has warmed up to the new government in the Maldives, offering financial help after it accused the previous government of striking secret deals with Chinese firms that have left the tiny country of 400,000 people in debt.

India and China are also aligned with opposing sides embroiled in political turmoil in Sri Lanka.

In Buenos Aires, the leaders of two of the world's fastest growing economies are expected to endorse efforts to liberalise their trade, Indian officials said.

Negotiators from the two countries held talks in New Delhi on Wednesday to try to prise open each other's farm markets.

China wants to export apples and dairy products and India is hoping to export skimmed milk products and buffalo meat, two Indian sources with direct knowledge of the matter said.

India banned the import of Chinese apples in 2017 after finding pesticides, while China restricted imports of Indian buffalo meat because of concern over foot and mouth disease.

Chinese Vice Minister Hu Wei and Indian Commerce Secretary Anup Wadhawan are leading the talks on the farm products as part of a broader trade package

"India's primary interest is exporting skimmed milk products and for China it is apples," one of the officials told Reuters on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the discussions.

Their bilateral trade reached $89.6 billion in 2017/18 with a deficit of $62.9 billion in China's favour.

Indian officials said that China, locked in a trade dispute with the United States, has been more flexible than before with regard to the possible opening up of its markets to Indian pharmaceutical products and IT services.Eight months before the Nirav Modi-Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam came to light, bogus purchases, over-valuation of stocks, suspicious payments to relatives and dubious loans, among others were red-flagged in an Income Tax investigation report, The Indian Express has reported.

The tax department report on Modi and Mehul Choksi, which ran into around 10,000 pages, was however not shared with any other agency. The report was finalised by the agency on June 8, 2017, according to the newspaper report.

The exhaustive report was only shared with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Enforcement Directorate (ED), Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in February when the PNB scam came to light, the newspaper report stated.

The two fugitive diamond jewellers Modi and Choksi and their three partnership companies -- Diamond R US, Stellar Diamonds and Solar Exports -- are accused of routing Rs 13,500 crore worth of fraudulent transactions through PNB, a public sector bank.

Modi and Choksi had left India in early January, weeks before the scam came to light.

The newspaper report, citing a senior tax official, suggests that the investigation report on Modi and Choksi was not shared with other agencies because there was 'no protocol' for such sharing at that time.Security personnel stand guard as voters stand in a queue at a polling station during the state Assembly elections, at Kanhmun, Mizoram.

Polling personnel on December 2 headed for Ajasora polling station in Mizoram's southernmost Tuichawng assembly constituency where repolling is scheduled on December 4, election department officials said.

Ajasora village, dominated by the Chakma community, is around 150 km from Lawngtlai town, from where the poll personnel began their journey on December 2.

The repoll was ordered by the Election Commission as polling could not be completed due to technical snags in the electronic voting machines (EVMs) on the polling day of November 28.

Over 300 voters could not cast their vote in the polling station due to persistent EVM snag.

The 1,080 voters in Ajasora polling station would again cast their vote on Tuesday.

State election department officials said that 101 Voter verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) were replaced while 46 units each of EVM postal and ballot units were substituted during the polling in the state on November 28.

Officials said that 1,839 control units and 1,853 ballot units of EVMs and 1,831 VVPATs were used for the election to the 40-member Mizoram legislature this time around.

The percentage of replacement of VVPAT was on the higher side compared to the national average, they said.A view of the Supreme Court of India in New Delhi - Nov 12, 2018 (Image- PTI) (2)

The Supreme Court on December 3 directed the Maharashtra government to submit before it the charge sheet filed against arrested rights activists before a Pune court in connection with the Koregaon-Bhima violence case.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it wanted to see the "charges" against the accused and asked senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the Maharashtra government, to submit before it by December 8 the charge sheet filed by the state police in a special court in Pune.

The bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, was hearing an appeal of the state government against a Bombay High Court order refusing to extend the time limit of 90 days for filing the probe report in the case.

The bench has now posted the appeal for further hearing on December 11.

Earlier the apex court had stayed the Bombay High Court order.

The Pune Police had arrested lawyer Surendra Gadling, Nagpur University professor Shoma Sen, Dalit activist Sudhir Dhawale, activist Mahesh Raut and Kerala native Rona Wilson in June for their alleged links with Maoists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).The chief architect of Ram temple is Chandrakant Bhai Sompura. He has also designed the Somnath temple in Gujarat, which was reconstructed after Indias independence. The Sompuras have designed over 100 temples around the world in over 15 generations.

As the crucial 2019 Lok Sabha elections near, the temple town of Ayodhya has become the cynosure of all eyes with the December 6 Babri Masjid demolition anniversary likely to act as a political potboiler.

Days after the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) organised 'Dharam Sabha' in Ayodhya to seek support for construction of a grand Ram temple, the ring-wing outfit will observe 'Shaurya Diwas' on December 6 to be followed by Gita Jayanti celebrations on December 18.

Gita Jayanti marks the advent of Bhagavad Gita, the sacred text of Hindus.

"Shaurya Diwas (which marks the demolition of Babri Masjid) will be traditionally celebrated. In Ayodhya, VHP along with various Hindu organisations are likely to hold a number of religious programme, including 'hawan', so that a grand temple of Lord Ram is built in Ayodhya," VHP spokesperson in Ayodhya, Sharad Sharma told PTI.

2018 marks the completion of 26 years of demolition of Babri Masjid.

"Special prayers will be offered to Goddess Saraswati so that she can help the people, especially politicians, in removing any obstruction in the path of construction of Ram temple," Sharma said.

"Sarva baadha mukti hawans (hawans seeking to get rid of all obstructions) will be held. Tributes will also be paid to the 'karsewaks' who faced the bullets," he said.

Elaborating further, the VHP leader said similar Dharam Sabha was scheduled to be held in Delhi on December 9 in which over 5 lakh people are likely to participate.

"On January 31 and February 1, we are going to organise 'Dharam Sansad' in Prayagraj in which more than 5,000 seers from across the country will participate. Seers from southern states and north-eastern states will be specially invited," the VHP spokesperson said.

Dharam Sansad will deliberate upon Ram temple, cow protection and River Ganga, he said.

"Social harmony will be another issue on which detailed discussions will be held," Sharma said.

"Through the Dharam Sabha, we were able to send a message that the Hindu society wants a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya," he said, adding the road map of the next course of action will be finalised during the 2019 Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj.

Mahant Ramdas of Nirmohi Akhara said around 500 prominent ashrams of the temple town will be illuminated with lamps on December 6.

"We will celebrate the day as Shaurya Diwas as it was on this day Ram Janmabhoomi was 'liberated' from a Mughal structure. We will light ghee lamps at around 500 prominent ashrams of the temple town to celebrate the day," he said.

At a Dharam Sabha organised in Ayodhya on November 25, Nritya Gopaldas, president of the Ram Janmbhoomi Nyas, had said, "Such a large attendance shows how much people are attached to the Ram temple".

"We respect the courts. We have great hopes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. I request Adityanath to pave the way for the construction of Ram temple," he said.

Ram Bhadracharya, a Hindu seer, claimed that he had spoken to a senior Union minister last month and was told that Ram devotees would not be deprived of their deity's temple in Ayodhya.

The minister told us that once the model code of conduct comes to an end after the declaration of results of the ongoing Assembly polls, the prime minister will take a decision on the issue by opting for the ordinance route, he said.

The year 2017, which marked the completion of 25 years of demolition of Babri Masjid, had seen heavy security deployment in the twin towns of Faizabad and Ayodhya, as the VHP and Bajrang Dal observed 'Shaurya Diwas' (Day of Valour) while Muslim organisations observed 'Yaum e Gham' (Day of Sorrow).

This year too, the Faizabad administration has made heavy security deployment in the two towns.

Police along with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) have been deployed in the sensitive localities of Ayodhya and Faizabad. Regular searches of vehicles, hotels and 'dharamshalas' are also on in the region.CNN-News18

The buzz around who will be crowned king among political parties in the ongoing five state elections is at its peak. Does BJP still hold the roost? Will a resurgent Congress take lead after a hiatus? The results, due to be announced on December 11, will put an end to many such questions.

And to answer such questions, CNN-News18s Political Editor Marya Shakil caught up with BJP President Amit Shah on the sidelines of his rally in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan.

Shah spoke about a number of things including Ram Temple, Rahul Gandhis campaign statements, farmers unrest and more importantly BJPs chances in the current five state elections - touted as the crucial semi-final - before the 2019 Lok Sabha elections mega face-off.

Heres a transcript of the interview:

Marya Shakil: First question, campaigning is ending in Rajasthan. How do you see the status of the BJP in Rajasthan?

Amit Shah: BJP will surely form the government in Rajasthan. The people of Rajasthan are with the BJP. Narendra Modi's popularity is at its all-time high. The Vasundhara Raje government has also done a very good job, here. All my campaigns in Rajasthan are over. I have toured the state for 15-16 days. I feel the people are with us.

Marya Shakil: When you made the blueprint a few months back, what is the difference from then to now?

Amit Shah: There is a huge difference. I came here for the first time in October. There were grievances among the workers, back then. After a lot of communication, the situation now seems to be that we will form the government in Rajasthan with a large margin.

Marya Shakil: Do you consider candidate selection to be an important issue?

Amit Shah: Candidates are important in every election. I think we've made those who have a significant presence among the public as our candidates. Our candidates are doing well.

Marya Shakil: Farmers seem to be angry.

Amit Shah: Anger is a big word to be used. There are some difficulties. But, if there is someone who has worked the most for the farmers, it is Narendra Modi. Farmers are aware of this. Look at the statistics that used to be under the Congress government. BJP has brought a complete transformation in the rates at which crops are bought. We've made new schemes and policies keeping farmer interests in the centre. I believe that these matters have reached the farmer.

Marya Shakil: Sir, we're in Chittorgarh. The Rajput community is talking about reservations.

Amit Shah: Such demands prevail among a lot of communities. Everybody will have to think about all this, some or the other time.

Marya Shakil: You did not use words like Hinduism in the speech that you gave, right now. Rahul Gandhi, however, gave a statement some days back questioning, 'What kind of a Hindu is the PM?' How do you see his statement?

Amit Shah: I don't want to make any comments on this. What Rahul talks and says and how much the public listens is something his poll manager should analyse.

Marya Shakil: What about Yogi's statements on God's castes?

Amit Shah: I believe that he has not spoken about caste. He has used words like Dalit, Adivasi, backward, etc.

Marya Shakil: Is it the dual strategy of the BJP that PM Modi and you will talk about development and the others will focus on other issues?

Amit Shah: All leaders talk about everything. Yogi speaks about development. There is nothing like that.

Marya Shakil: What will happen on December 11?

Amit Shah: I completely believe that we will form the government in all the three states.

Marya Shakil: How are you looking at Mizoram and Telangana?

Amit Shah: We will improve our position in Telangana. But, I believe Congress has no future in Telangana or Mizoram.

Marya Shakil: So, North East will become Congress-mukt?

Amit Shah: Yes. After the results in Mizoram.

Marya Shakil: What is the status in Telangana? Will the BJP be able to do better?

Amit Shah: We will definitely do better. There will be an improvement in the seats.

Marya Shakil: The winter session will also start by then. Today, there was a statement by Dattatray Hosbole. How do you see it?

Amit Shah: Government will also have their agenda for the session. We will take them forward. All parties should keep the session work-centric.

Marya Shakil: Ram temple?

Amit Shah: The issue is in court.

Marya Shakil: Bill or ordinance?

Amit Shah: Party will have to think about it. The case is up in January. Let us see.

Marya Shakil: Initially surveys said that Congress will sweep Rajasthan. Now, it says a cut-throat competition.

Exit polls will make BJP win.Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh met visiting Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on October 20 and discussed with him issues related to security and anti-terror cooperation between India and the island nation. (Image: PTI)

Union Ministers Rajnath Singh and Smriti Irani hit out at the Congress saying the party which had once questioned the existence of Lord Ram was now talking about Hinduism.

Referring to the Congress president Rahul Gandhi remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he did not understand the foundation of Hinduism, Irani said that it was strange that the party which raised question on Lord Ram's existence was talking about Hindu and Hinduism.

Where was the Hindu in Rahul Gandhi when Congress had submitted an affidavit that Lord Ram does not exist?.., she asked?

It may be recalled that in a damage control exercise, the then UPA government in September, 2007 withdrew from the Supreme Court its two affidavits, including the controversial one filed by the ASI claiming there was no historical or scientific evidence to establish existence of Lord Ram and Rama Setu as a man-made bridge.

The action had come in the wake of controversy sparked by the ASI affidavit that forced the government to backtrack.

Meanwhile, Home Minister Rajnath Singh in reply to a question in Jaipur earlier in the day said Congress was talking about Hinduism which it has avoided discussing till now.

"Hinduism should not be connected with any sect, caste and religion. It is a way of living life and it is a human religion.

What will they talk about Hindu and Hinduism? They have called Lord Ram a fictional character in the affidavit submitted in Supreme Court in Ram Setu case in 2007, he said. Irani, to a question on Punjab minister Navjot Sidhu visit to Pakistan and his remarks on Chief Minister Captain Amrinder Singh, said that Congress president needed to answer on it.

Why does a Congress minister insult chief minister of his state? Rahul Gandhi should answer it. Why does a Congress leader love Pakistan more than India, Congress should think about it," she said.

She also questioned the "silence" of Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Navjot Sidhu's Pakistan visit.Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot, in Jaipur

Abhinav Prakash Singh

As Rajasthan draws closer to vote on Friday, December 7, the public opinion has shifted from an impending decisive defeat of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to a tough contest and unpredictable poll outcome.

The discontent against the sitting Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje due to her apparent distance from the populace has faded in the face of the social equations and recalibrated messaging of the BJP.

The BJP has decided to focus its main thrust on the developmental work and the administrative record upfront with the Uttar Pradesh style micro social-engineering in the background.

Despite the popular media narrative, the administrative record of the Raje government has been satisfactory with several popular schemes such as the Bhamashah Yojana.

In addition, there has been no major scams or riots. However, what had soured the public perception is the perceived aloofness of Raje and slow growth on the jobs front. The persistent problems in the agricultural sector is also a factor fuelling the anti-incumbency. Then there is the issue of caste dynamics which shapes the Rajasthan elections.

The political rivalry between different castes, especially the Rajputs and the Jats, and the Gujjars and the Meenas has been intractable. It was only during 2013-14 that they voted in the same direction towards the BJP, decades after the Bhairon Singh Shekhawat formed an alliance with the Chaudhary Devi Lal to take on the Congress.

In fact, the success of the BJP in recent years has depended on its ability to create what is known as the United Spectrum of Hindu Votes underpinned by the smart social-engineering and pro-development appeal. The strategy yielded rich dividends for the BJP whose vote share in the last assembly elections was 46.05 percent against the 33.7 percent of the Congress. It will be a tough task for the Congress to close such a massive gap.

The BJP has been working hard to stitch a vote-bank of the non-dominant castes such as the Malis, Yadavs, Kumawats, Sindhis, Rebaris, Kalals, Dhakar, Meena, Dangi and others. The new BJP state president also belongs to this spectrum of castes. The BJP hopes to counterbalance the loss of the upper-caste votes due to the anti-SC/ST Act protests and loss of the Jat-Gujjar votes due to pro-reservation movement.

On the other side, the Congress is pinning all its hope on anti-incumbency and upper-caste unrest even though its on the face messaging is about jobs for youth and fair deal to the farmers. While it found some initial traction, it has failed to sustain an effective campaign. It has no coherent vision to articulate to rival Hindutva and has not laid out a roadmap for job creation and address issues farmers are facing.

In addition to this, the Congress has hesitated from declaring Sachin Pilot as its chief ministerial face due to the fears of antagonising non-Gujjar dominant castes. This has led to the formation of rival camps within the party centred on Pilot and former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. It is doubtful that a divided camp can take on the well-oiled election machinery of Amit Shah.

The only vote-bank the Congress can rely on is the Muslim votes. There is no visible break in the trend of a pro-BJP tilt among the Dalits despite the narrative build-up of disenchantment among the Dalits. The BJP has successfully tried to retain the tribal votes, especially the Meenas by co-opting the community leaders. In addition, the BJP has its organisational strength going for it but it seems that now the RSS has also decided to put its weight behind the Raje government. It came after the overzealous targeting of the RSS by the Congress in its election campaign.

On the top of this is the immense popularity and credibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi whose rallies are known to swing significant votes. He has mostly focused on the welfare schemes of the state and the Centre, such as housing, toilet construction, health insurance, gas connections, which are among the most visible and popular schemes.

The Rajasthan election will also test the success of the BJP in cultivating a new constituency among the poor, which has historically voted for the Congress.

There is no doubt that Rajasthan is a tough election for the BJP and chances of victory are slim, but the very fact that it has a fighting chance speaks volumes about the organisational capacity and acumen of the party leadership.

This is what the Congress lacks and is seen as struggling in what should have been a cakewalk in a state known for alternating between the two parties. It also shows the limit of anti-incumbency under the Modi-led BJP. Even if the BJP loses Rajasthan by a small margin, it will still be an indicator of a pro-incumbency vote in 2019.

(Abhinav Prakash Singh is assistant professor, Shri Ram College of Commerce, University of Delhi, Delhi. Views are personal)An exploration of a 100 years of marketing to women

Brands that are gender balanced or even slightly female-skewed outperform male-skewed brands. They are 4% healthier than male-skewed brands and 6% healthier than strongly male skewed brands.



Two thirds of women would skip ads if they felt that they were negatively stereotyping women, and 85% said film and advertising does a poor job of depicting real world women.

Brands contribute more for those with high self-esteem, suggesting that it is relatively easier for brands to endorse self-esteem than it is for them to create it



Men favour brands traditionally associated with male spheres of influence such as cars or financial products, compared to women who feel a more meaningful connection with brands associated with day to day purchases such as beauty and clothes



A small number of brands are getting the balance right  in particular, Amazon, Boots and Dove

Those five contributors are financial autonomy, freedom of thought and expression, sexual and body autonomy, accessibility/visibility and social connections and networks



Sexual and body autonomy is more important to women with 27% citing this as the main contributor to their self-esteem, compared to 23% of men who place a higher value on financial autonomy (22% v 17% of women)

Almost a third of women rate their self-esteem as below average, compared to 38% of men who feel that their level of self-esteem is higher than the average person



The gulf is widest among millennials (those aged 18-34): less than a quarter of millennial women identified their self-esteem as above average, compared to more than half of millennial men (52%)



55% agree that movements like #MeToo have made gender equality a more prominent issue. But only 37% of women and 43% of men thought that gender equality had improved versus 12 months ago

Brands promoting gender-balanced marketing are worth 774bn more, says Kantar's What Women Want? research. The new study says that brands across the UK are risking their customer relationships and impacting their brand value by failing to correctly reflect, represent and champion women in their marketing and advertising efforts. The report states that despite an increased focus on equality driven by movements like #MeToo, major brands are still not effectively acknowledging womens priorities, or communicating with women in an empowering manner at every step of the customer journey.Key findings from the study, which was commissioned as part of the What Women Want? exhibition celebrating the centenary of female emancipation in the United Kingdom, include:The research asked consumers the role they thought 40 brands played in building self-esteem, with those identified as being for me (a score nearer 100) making a positive contribution and those against me (nearer zero) making a negative contribution revealing:Making 80% of household purchase decisions, women present an essential group of consumers, but they are not being listened to or seeing themselves reflected in brands.Responding to the What Women Want? study, Bart Michels, UK country leader for Kantar, commented: Our research shows the work is not over for addressing feelings of inequality. By engaging with women meaningfully and understanding their priorities, brands will not only contribute to their commercial success, but to society as a whole. Making tokenistic efforts that dont feel authentic, will mean brands missing out on a very significant business opportunity, and they simply wont be part of the new society women are building for themselves.December 07, 2018 / 05:01 PM IST

The caste dynamics in the state and the race for reservations

Rajasthan is a land of myriad colours, and this pluralism extends to the communities and ethnicities that make up the population of the state.

The state is made up of 89 percent Hindus, 9 percent Muslims while 2 percent belong to other religions. The Scheduled Caste (SC) population is 18 percent, Scheduled Tribe (ST) 13 percent, Jats 12 percent, Gujjars and Rajputs 9 percent each, Brahmins and Minas 7 percent each.

Among these, the Rajputs and the Jats have been at loggerheads ever since the princely states were merged into the Indian Union in 1952. At that time, the princes had fielded a large number of their nominees, and the electorate which was used to being ruled by the kings had voted for them.

Click here to read moreUttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is ready to rename Hyderabad as Bhagyanagar, if voted to power in Telangana, according to a report by The Times of India.

The UP chief minister was in the poll-bound state on December 2 to campaign for the saffron party.

"If you are keen to rename Hyderabad as Bhagyanagar, then vote for BJP," Adityanath said.

The BJP government in UP, which is led by Adityanath had recently changed the name of Allahabad to Prayagray and Faizabad district to Ayodhya.

Addressing a gathering in Hyderabad region, which is a bastion of Asaduddin Owaisis All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM), Adityanath accused the party of playing "only Muslim appeasement politics" and linked it to terror attacks.

"All terror attacks have some link with Hyderabad. Had Muslim appeasement not been part of our politics, such terrorist activities would not have taken place," Yogi said, according the report.

Escalating his attack on Owaisi further, he said, "if BJP forms government in Telangana, I can tell you that Owaisi will have to run away just like the Nizam was compelled to run away from Hyderabad."

Adityanath attacked the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) and principle opposition party Congress, accusing them of indulging in Muslim appeasement and making religion a foundation for making schemes for them.

"Congress says if it forms government in Telangana it will provide area development funds to Muslims. Congress policies are divisive, with wrong intentions," Adityanath said.

He alleged that Congress and TRS are "playing with" the interest of the people in Telangana and they would make efforts to take the state towards "Nizamshahi".

The BJP does not discriminate between caste, creed and religion while drafting policies, he said. It only did development, but never did appeasement of anyone, said added.

(With inputs from PTI)lok sabha, Parliament ,session

The success rate of women candidates in 2014 general elections was higher than that of their male counterparts, yet women in India still occupy just over 1 in 10 seats in Lok Sabha, notes a new book.

Titled "Women Members in the Indian Parliament", the book edited by Shirin M Rai and Carole Spary, demonstrates the barriers faced by women in accessing the lower house of the parliament.

"(In 2014) ... 9.3 per cent of women candidates (were) successfully elected (or 62 out of 668 women candidates) in comparison to 6.3 percent of men candidates (or 481 out of 7,577 candidates)," the book said.

The women's presence in the Lok Sabha at present is around 12 per cent, which is only 7 per cent higher than what it was in the first general elections in 1951 when there were 24 women members out of a total 489 MPs. The Lok Sabha has 545 seats including the two seats for Anglo-Indians nominated by the president.

In 2014 general elections, 62 women were elected to the 16th Lok Sabha, to a house of 543 seats, or just over 11 percent. It further rose to 66 in 2015 as a result of bye-elections and nominations bringing women's presence to around 12 per cent.

Of the two largest national parties, according to the book, Congress has historically nominated a greater proportion of women, and over time BJP's nomination of women has also increased.

However, the BJP in 2014 nominated fewer women candidates than in 2009 (44 in 2009 to 37 in 2014). In contrast, the Congress nominated a higher number and proportion of women candidates: 59 women in 2014 compared with 43 women in 2009.

And even though the number of women contesting the elections has increased considerably, "from 355 in 2004 to 556 in 2009 and 668 in 2014", the book sates that men have still been constituting the "majority of candidates" -- 92 to 93 per cent in the last three general elections.

"In the general election of 2014, women represented 8.1 per cent of total 8,251 candidates contesting for 543 seats, an increase of only 1 per cent over the previous two elections when women constituted around 7 per cent of all candidates," said the book quoting the Election Commission of India (ECI) data.

The proportion of women among total candidates has remained relatively the same because the number of male candidates had also risen in 2014 elections, it added.

That said, the book, observed that women are nominated in greater proportion in the SC and ST category seats, compared to general seats.

"In the 2014 election, though women candidates constituted only 8 per cent of candidates overall, they constituted 14 per cent of all candidates contesting SC reserved seats," it read.

Also, women were present in relatively higher proportions among those elected in SC reserved constituencies -- 12 out of 84 elected MPs in the SC seats are women as opposed to just over 11 per cent women overall.

Published by Oxford University Press, "Women Members in the Indian Parliament", priced at Rs 995, explores the possibilities and limits of parliamentary democracy and the participation of women in its institutional performances.Rank 3 | Company: HDFC Bank | Market cap: $82 billion (Image: PTI)

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Almost seven days after HDFC Banks new mobile application malfunctioned, several users are still unable to use its internet banking service.

HDFC Bank customers started complaining about the updated mobile application malfunctioning last week. The application was pulled from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store on December 1.

Customers continue to be unable to access the app since it was updated. When users tried to access the app, it said: "Sorry, we are experiencing high traffic on our servers. Please try again after some time."

The bank, through its Twitter handle, had on November 29 issued a statement saying users, who moved to the apps new version and deleted the old one, will not be able to use mobile banking till further notice. It has not revealed the reason why the mobile app malfunctioned.

HDFC Bank has said it is working to resolve the issue at the earliest.

The tweet remains pinned on both HDFC Bank Twitter accounts  @HDFC_Bank and @HDFCBank Cares.

Screenshot of the HDFC Bank malfunction

As of now, there is no mobile app available to the banks customers. The older version of the app has also not been uploaded by the bank.

The new app was launched at the banks annual Digital Innovation Summit 2018 in New Delhi last week.

In the meanwhile, the bank has advised customers to use other HDFC Bank services such as internet banking, PayZapp, mobile banking and missed call banking. The bank has also said that customers using the older version could continue to use the service.

Reacting to this development, Sachin Bansal, co-founder of Flipkart, tweeted, "In this day and age, how can the largest private bank of India do this?!"Buenos Aires : Leaders attending the G20 Summit pose for the family photo at the Costa Salguero Center in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Friday, Nov. 30, 2018.AP/PTI(AP11_30_2018_000301B)

China's president signed new trade deals with Argentina on Sunday as the Asian giant expands its growing role in Latin American economies.

Presidents Mauricio Macri of Argentina and Xi Jinping of China announced the more than 30 agriculture and investment deals during a state visit following the Group of 20 summit in Buenos Aires.

The deals include an agreement to export Argentine cherries to China and an expansion of a currency swap.

China is among Argentina's top export markets, especially for agricultural commodities that are the engine of its economy.

It is also one of Argentina's biggest lenders, financing about USD 18.2 billion in infrastructure and other projects, according to the Inter-American Dialogue, a Washington-based think tank.

"China's development benefits Argentina, our region and the world," Macri said during a ceremony at the presidential residence in the outskirts of the Argentine capital.

"We have complementary countries. There are few countries in the world that can buy so many of the high-quality products that we're capable of making," Macri said.

The visit comes after US officials said they had reached a 90-day truce in the trade dispute with China that has rattled financial markets and imperiled global economic growth.

That announcement followed a Saturday dinner meeting between Xi and President Donald Trump.

Argentina also granted Xi the top honour awarded to foreign politicians, and the Argentine polo association gave the Chinese leader a polo horse.

The South American country is home to the world's top polo players, and Macri said that he wants the sport to make a comeback in China.

Photos released by Argentina's presidency showed a smiling Xi petting the pony with one hand and holding the reins with the other.

Macri also put a red polo helmet emblazoned with China's flag on Xi's head.

Xi congratulated Macri on a successful summit and said both of their nations believe the G-20 spirit of solidarity must prevail in "the firm defense of multilateralism and free trade to build an open global economy and foment the world's prosperity and stability."

Xi then flew to Panama, which has been negotiating a free-trade deal with China after shifting its diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taiwan last year, a move that led to complaints from US officials.

Chinese companies operate ports on both ends of the Panama Canal, which for most of the 20th Century was seen as a symbol of US influence.

Xi was met at the airport by Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela, and the two leaders planned a private working meeting Monday.

The Chinese leader also planned to visit the Cocoli locks on the Pacific end of the canal.Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia waves to activists as she arrives for a rally in Dhaka in this file picture taken January 20, 2014. A Bangladesh court issued an arrest warrant on March 30, 2016 for former prime minister and opposition leader Zia over a deadly firebombing attack last year, a prosecutor said. REUTERS/Andrew Biraj/Files - GF10000365774

Quashing the political ambitions of jailed ex-Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia, the election authority rejected her nomination papers from three constituencies, citing her convictions in two corruption cases.

The Election Commission's decision came four days after the Bangladesh High Court ruled that a person jailed for more than two years cannot contest polls.

The 73-year-old ex-premier is currently serving jail terms in two graft cases involving charities named after her slain husband Ziaur Rahman.

Zia had filed nomination papers from three constituencies -- two from northwestern Bogra and one from southeastern Feni -- for the December 30 polls, but the returning officers of the two districts scrapped her nominations as she was convicted by the court, an EC spokesperson said.

Nearly 104.2 million people, including some 51.6 million women, are registered as voters. They will elect 300 representatives to Parliament through the balloting in about 40,199 polling stations.

As per election rules, a candidate declared unfit to contest polls can appeal to an EC tribunal for revised decisions or could challenge the commission decision to the High Court.

Besides Zia, the nomination of 15 high-profile candidates were also disqualified on different grounds, the spokesperson said.

Zia has been in custody since February 8, when the Dhaka Special Court convicted her in the Zia Orphanage Trust graft case and sentenced her to five years of imprisonment for embezzling 21 million Bangladeshi Taka (USD 252,504) in foreign donations meant for the Trust. On October 30, the High Court doubled her jail term to 10 years.

On October 29, a trial court convicted her in the Zia Charitable Trust graft case and sentenced her to seven years in prison and imposed a fine of Tk 1 million (USD 12,024).

Zia was made vice-chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the largest political opposition of the country, in March 1983 after the assassination of her husband. She became chairperson of the party on May 10, 1984, a post she is holding till now.

In her 35 years of political career, Zia went to the jail several times.

During the 2007-2008 tenure of the army-backed caretaker government, she was in jail for about a year on charges of corruption.

The BNP continued to remain in a state of political disarray with Zia in prison and her "fugitive" elder son Tarique Rahman, who is the vice chairman of the party, staying in London after a Dhaka court recently sentenced him life imprisonment for masterminding a deadly attack on a political rally in 2004.

The BNP, which boycotted the 2014 elections under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League (AL) government over fears that it would be rigged, has set up an alliance with the newly formed National Unity Front (NUF) led by eminent jurist Kamal Hossain.

Bangladesh politics is deeply divided, with rivals Hasina and Zia, popularly referred to as "Battling Begums", ruling the country alternately since 1991, when democracy was restored in the Islamic nation.Foreign exchange earnings totaled USD 24 billion in January-October 2019, with a growth (year-on-year) of two percent.

China and Argentina signed a USD 9 billion currency swap deal to boost the crisis-stricken South American country's foreign currency reserves, its central bank announced.

Struggling to recover after a currency crisis earlier this year, Latin America's third largest economy sought the help of the International Monetary Fund -- which approved a USD 56 billion loan package.

Now, this latest agreement will "contribute to greater financial stability and also facilitate trade" between China and Argentina, according to the bank's statement.

A currency swap sees two parties agree to exchange a certain amount of foreign currency at a pre-determined rate, protecting against fluctuations.

Argentina's central bank will be able to draw on these funds in an emergency.

The agreement followed the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, as Chinese President Xi Jinping was received by his Argentine counterpart Mauricio Macri for a state visit.

The two countries signed 30 trade and financial agreements in total.

"We are extending cooperation on economic, agricultural, financial and infrastructure issues," Xi told a press conference.

After Brazil, China is Argentina's second largest trade partner.

In 2017, the relationship was firmly in Beijing's favor: China exported USD 17 billion of goods to Argentina, while importing USD 8 billion of goods from that country.Several world leaders are keen to strike trade deals with Britain once the country is out of the European Union, Prime Minister Theresa May will say on Monday, pressing the case for her Brexit deal before a fateful December 11 vote in parliament.

May is facing an uphill struggle to get lawmakers to back her deal to keep close economic ties with the bloc, which she agreed with the EU in November. The main opposition Labour Party says it will seek a vote of no confidence in the government if May loses the vote.

The pact has been criticised within May's own party, both by supporters of a cleaner break with the EU and by opponents of Brexit. A Northern Irish party which props up her minority government has said it will vote against it.

After visiting Argentina for a G20 summit, May will say her meetings with leaders showed that several countries were ready to negotiate trade deals "as soon as possible". Swift new trade deals are a major demand for Brexit campaigners.

"Once we leave the EU, we can and we will strike ambitious trade deals," May will tell parliament, according to excerpts of her speech. "For the first time in more than 40 years we will have an independent trade policy, and we will continue to be a passionate advocate for the benefits open economies and free markets can bring."

She will say that she had meetings with leaders keen to strike trade deals, including the hosts Argentina, Australia, Chile and Japan. With Japan, Britain wants to work quickly to set up a new arrangement based on Japan's existing partnership agreement with the EU, she will say.

The government says that if May's deal is voted down there is a risk Britain will exit the EU with no agreement at all, with serious potential economic consequences.

Some opponents of Brexit have campaigned for a new referendum giving voters the option to reverse Britain's 2016 vote to leave the bloc, although the government says no such new vote will be held.Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has suggested that the company is valued at $2 trillion. Apples valued at less than half of that, at $943.53 billion and Alphabet Inc is valued at $838.55 billion.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrived in Algeria on Sunday from Mauritania, resuming a tour of Arab countries after attending the G20 summit in Argentina.

Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia received the prince in the capital Algiers, the state news agency APS said.

Before the summit, the heir to the throne of the world's top oil exporter had visited the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt and Tunisia.

On his way to Algeria he had stopped over in Mauritania, where Saudi Arabia pledged to build a large hospital in the capital Nouakchott, state media said.

The crown prince is on his first trip abroad since the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, which has strained Saudi Arabia's ties with the West and battered the prince's image abroad.

Saudi Arabia has said the prince had no prior knowledge of the murder. After offering numerous contradictory explanations, Riyadh said last month that Khashoggi had been killed and his body dismembered when negotiations to persuade him to return to Saudi Arabia failed.

Algerian-Saudi investments and trade relations, especially in the oil and petrochemical sectors, will be discussed during the two-day visit, APS said on Saturday.

Algeria is one of the few Arab countries that has good relations with Saudi Arabia and its arch-rival Iran, both fellow OPEC members.

Algiers also has strong ties with Qatar, with which Saudi Arabia and three other Arab states severed trade and transport ties in June 2017, accusing it of supporting terrorism and Iran. Qatar denies the allegations.

Algeria is also on good terms with Turkey, whose relations with Saudi Arabia have been strained by the Khashoggi killing.

The Saudi prince is unlikely to face protests over the murder as he did in Tunisia, as demonstrations are banned in Algiers.

But a group of prominent journalists and intellectuals has written an open letter opposing his visit, saying it is "unethical and politically inappropriate".The Saudi-led coalition said it approved evacuating wounded Houthi fighters for treatment on December 3 , meeting a key condition for the group to attend U.N.-sponsored peace talks in Sweden this week aimed at ending Yemen's nearly four-year-old war.

Prospects for convening talks have increased as Western allies press Saudi Arabia, leader of the Sunni Muslim alliance battling the Iranian-aligned Houthis, over a war that has killed more than 10,000 people and pushed Yemen to the brink of famine.

The talks could start on December 5, two sources familiar with the matter said, after U.N. special envoy Martin Griffiths shuttled between the parties to salvage a previous round that collapsed in September after the Houthis failed to show up.

Western powers, which provide arms and intelligence to the coalition, may have greater leverage to demand action on Yemen after outrage over the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Riyadh's consulate in Istanbul increased scrutiny of the kingdom's activities in the region.

The coalition agreed to a U.N. request to facilitate the evacuation of 50 wounded Houthis "for humanitarian considerations and as part of confidence-building measures" ahead of the talks, spokesman Turki al-Malki said in a statement.

He said a U.N. commercial plane would land in the Houthi-held capital Sanaa on Monday to transport them to Oman, along with three doctors.

The Houthis have said they would head to Sweden once the wounded were evacuated and if their delegation's plane was not inspected by the coalition. The Saudi-backed government has said it would follow the Houthis for the talks, which are also due to focus on a transitional governing body.

The alliance intervened in Yemen in 2015 to restore the internationally recognised government of Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi and push back the Houthis who control most population centres. These include Sanaa and the port city of Hodeidah, now a focus of the war.

Griffiths hopes to reach a deal on reopening Sanaa airport and securing a prisoner swap and a ceasefire in Hodeidah as a foundation for negotiations for a wider truce in Yemen, which is grappling with the world's most urgent humanitarian crisis with an estimated 8.4 million people facing starvation.A UN plane will evacuate 50 wounded Huthi militants from Yemen's rebel-held capital Sanaa on December 3 as a "confidence building measure" ahead of planned peace talks in Sweden, a Saudi-led military coalition said.

"A UN chartered plane will arrive at Sanaa international airport Monday to evacuate 50 wounded combatants three Yemeni doctors and a UN doctor, from Sanaa to Muscat," a coalition spokesman said in a statement carried by the official Saudi Press Agency.

The fate of wounded rebels had been a stumbling block to the start of a previous round of aborted peace talks in September.

The coalition agreed to facilitate the medical evacuations at the request of UN envoy Martin Griffiths for "humanitarian reasons" and as a "confidence building measure", the spokesman added.

Huthi rebels on Thursday said they will attend UN-brokered peace talks in Sweden this week if guarantees to ensure they can leave home and return back are maintained.

Yemen's internationally recognised government, which is also backed by a Saudi-led coalition, has already said it would attend the planned talks in Sweden.

Griffiths has held talks separately in the past few days with officials from both sides as part of efforts to lay the ground work for the peace talks.

In September, a previous round of UN-led talks failed when the Huthis refused to travel to Geneva, accusing the world body of failing to guarantee their delegation's return to Sanaa or secure the evacuation of wounded rebels to Oman.

Previous talks broke down in 2016, when 108 days of negotiations in Kuwait failed to yield a deal and left rebel delegates stranded in Oman for three months.

According to UN figures, nearly 10,000 people have been killed since the coalition joined the conflict in 2015 to bolster Hadi, triggering what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.The government on Monday sought attachment of properties of a few more directors of debt-ridden Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services (IL&FS). The counsel for the ministry sought to freeze all assets, securities, lockers, bank accounts of Ravi Parthasarathy and Hari Shankaran.

Top executives from IL&FS group who were made parties to the case include Vibhav Kapoor, Pradeep Puri, K Ramchand, S Rangarajan, RC Bawa and Mukund Sapre. The government is also seeking attachment of movable and immovable properties of these top executives of IL&FS group.

During the hearing, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) agreed to make these executives as parties to the case and allowed the company application to make all of them respondents in the case.

Earlier, the ministry of corporate affairs (MCA) filed its interim report on the IL&FS case, naming several high-profile individuals and 302 group companies as respondents. The MCA, in its report mentioned that 39 companies that were listed as part of IL&FS have ceased to be group companies and Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) is probing the matter.

The counsel for the government told the Tribunal that interim probe shows manner in which fund diversion took place at IL&FS. While Kapoor was the chief investment officer of IL&FS, Ramchand was the managing director (MD) of IL&FS Transportation Network. Rangarajan was the MD and chief executive (CEO) of IL&FS Securities, Sapre was the executive director of IL&FS Transportation Networks Ltd (ITNL), while Bawa was the MD of IL&FS Financial Services. Puri, an officer from the Indian Administrative Services (IAS) was the chairman of IL&FS Water Ltd.

Last week, IL&FS initiated the process to sell its renewable energy business and has invited expression of interest (EoI) proposals from prospective buyers. IL&FS's assets from the renewable energy business put on the block include, operating wind power generating plants with aggregate capacity of 873.5MW, and its under-construction wind power generating plants with aggregate capacity of 104MW. Its asset management services for the wind power generating plant, business division that carries out project development and implementation of wind power plants will also be sold.

Last month, several lenders of IL&FS had opposed the 90-day moratorium over loans taken by the debt-laden group and its subsidiaries. Lenders also requested the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) to allow them not to classify IL&FS accounts as non-performing assets (NPAs) in case of defaults.

However, there was no decision and the NCLAT fixed 17th December as next date of hearing.

During October, the NCLAT had stayed all proceedings against IL&FS group and its 348 group companies till further orders, over an urgent petition moved by the government.

Earlier, the ministry of corporate affairs had approached the appellate tribunal after the Mumbai bench of NCLT turned down its plea to grant 90-day moratorium over the loans taken by IL&FS and its subsidiaries. On 1 October 2018, the NCLT suspended the board of IL&FS on the government's plea and authorised reconstitution of the board by appointing seven directors two days later.Reabilitarea si eficientizarea energetica a Gradinitei cu Program Prelungit Motanul Incaltat Unitatea Administrativ Teritoriala Municipiul Galati a semnat cu Ministerul Dezvoltarii, Lucrarilor Publice si Administratiei, in calitate de Autoritate ...

Autoritatile din capitala Coreei de Sud au lansat un proiect pilot pentru a testa roboti in miniatura drept instrumente pedagogice in gradinite, avand drept scop pregatirea generatiei urmatoare pentru un viitor high-tech, a anuntat guvernul de la Seu ...

NATO va incepe luni cel mai mare exercitiu anual al sau de aparare cibernetica, denumit ''Cyber Coalition 21'', care va testa capacitatile aliatilor de a combate atacurile cibernetice, relateaza agentia EFE. ''Trebuie sa continuam sa ne consolidam ap ...*This article contains some details about Christmas that may not be suitable for children*



A New Jersey school has sent letters of apology to parents after a substitute teacher informed her first grade (Year 2) class that Santa isn't real.

According to Lisa Simek, an upset parent, the reliever told students that "Santa isn't real, and parents just buy presents and put them under the tree".

Cedar Hill School Principal Michael Raj wrote to parents as soon as he was aware of the situation.

"I am sending this letter so that you are aware of the situation," he began a letter.

"And if the conversation comes up at home over the next few days you can take appropriate steps to maintain the childhood innocence of the holiday season."

However, childhood innocence may be a thing of the past for these students, as the teacher reportedly also told them, "Reindeer can't fly, elves are not real and [popular toy] Elf on the Shelf is just a pretend doll that your parents move around".

Seemingly unsatisfied with just spoiling Christmas, the substitute also told the children that "the tooth fairy is not real" and that the "same goes for the Easter bunny".

According to Ms Simek, she also told them "magic does not exist".

However, in the generous spirit of Christmas, Ms Simek urged people not to say anything negative about the reliever.

"We don't know her situation or perspective," she wrote.

"No matter how unfortunate a situation, we must all learn that Christmas magic is real and shown through acts of kindness, love and positivity."

Newshub.Pankaj Murarka, Founder of Renaissance Investment Managers, shared his views at the Morningstar Investment Conference held in Mumbai on October 23 & 24, 2018. Below in an excerpt from that discussion moderated by Sanjoy Bhattacharyya, Managing Partner at Fortuna Capital.

Are we in a bear market?

Depends on the quantitative definition of a bear market.

Do you feel like you are in a bear market?

Not really. A bear market is an extended period of significant decline in markets across the board. I think its too early. It's just been four weeks since the market has started correcting. To me, it's a cyclical correction.

The Nifty Midcap 100 is down 22.83% for the year, whereas the Sensex is up 23 basis points, neither here nor there. Isn't that a sign that we have a 2-tier market?

Absolutely. The same thing happened in 2017 as well, where the Midcap Index outperformed the underlying benchmark by some 25% odd.

So this is mean reversion?

Exactly. Mid and small caps have been frothy because of the kind of retail flows that we've seen into the market and those indices have been trading at like 2x or 100% premium to the broader indices.

Broadly speaking, it's a bear market when you relate it to the underlying economy. The real economy has not done really well in the last 4 to 5 years. India actually experienced an industrial recession in the last 4 years. But because India is a very diversified economy, we never experience a consumer recession. Consumers did well in India in the last 5 years. If you look at India's industrial growth over the last 5 years, it's half of the long-term average of the last 30 years.

If you look at the behaviour of the market over the last 5 years, the index is nothing but an average of the good and the bad. It doesn't give you the true picture. If you decipher the index, then actually you had a 2-speed market for the last 5 years where you had a pocket of market which relates to all your consumer and consumer-related stocks, be it your consumer, consumer durables, your shadow banks or NBFCs and retail businesses, they have done exceedingly well. They have been in bull market for the last 5 years and that bull market has peaked.

If you look at the industrial side or the manufacturing side of the economy, they have actually been in a bear market for the last 5 years, not for the last one month. If you look at the whole pain of the economy is relying on corporate banks, you look at what's happening to the engineering and capital goods sector and that's because India's real economy has been growing below potential for almost 5 years. And if you average the two out, effectively what you get is a NIFTY CAGR which has been about 11% over the last 4 or 5 years.

You are talking about price CAGR?

Yes.

Earnings CAGR has been horrific.

About 7%-8%.

Because the real economy has not been doing well, there is a very narrow section of market or section of economy which has been driving earnings and at the same time, you have this broad section of market which has been dragging earnings. So, effectively, we've had a situation where the NIFTY earnings CAGR has been significantly below the nominal GDP growth. This has not happened for such an extended period of time in the last 20 years as it has happened in the last 5 years.

So what you are seeing in the last 4 to 6 weeks is nothing but mean reversion.

I relate it to something like a NIFTY 50 bubble which happened in U.S. in the mid-60s and in the early 70s, where all these consumer companies went to P/Es of 50, 70, 90. Coca-Cola peaked in 1972 and it took 17 years for it to get back towards same price. All these 17 years Coca-Cola's earnings were still growing, and this happened to many other consumer companies in the U.S.

So, I think, what we are effectively seeing is a mean reversion. And if you say that we are in a bear market or the bull market has peaked, I think it's peaked for these consumer stocks because the kind of valuation they were trading at, the implied growth  meaning for them to sustain that valuation, the implied growth could not have happened. Meaning, if a staples is trading at 50 P/E, meaning just a caveat, I am talking about some names, so for Unilever to hold on to these P/Es, the implied growth is something like 17%, 18% for the next 20 years. If you see last 15 years, Unilever's revenue growth is like 10% or 11%.

So, we did create a froth or a bubble in some of these names but not in the aggregate market.

Consumer staples, the high-quality ones, traded P/E multiples in excess of 50 across the board, yet they have many of the characteristics that will help you to deal with turbulent times. Should one still be buying consumer staples at current prices in today's environment?

I think India is going through a Nifty 50 bubble, so I'll stay away from all consumer names.

At this stage, as you find yourself presently in the market, given the circumstances you're confronted with, would you have cash as a meaning part of the assets that you manage? When I say meaningful, in double-digits at least.

We do have 10% to 12% cash. But essentially, we are not fascinated with holding cash. We want to buy great businesses at great prices. The times of uncertainty or times like these are the best of the times. Investing is real fun because you see capitulation on the street, you see stock prices falling. These are the time when you can buy some of the finest businesses at prices where you would like to buy them, rather than just trying to chase, these are times when you can buy them comfortably at your comfort zone.

You are not worried about the elections? You are not worried about a mechanical approach to rupee cost averaging?

Not really. If you have a 3 or 5-year perspective, I think there are enough number of businesses in India which are growing at 2x, 3x of nominal GDP. Irrespective of election outcomes, I think India's nominal GDP has been pretty stable, and I see it accelerating over the next five years, seven years. So, in that case, for  anyone who has a slightly more medium-term to longer-term perspective, I think  I mean, as I say, volatility is the nature of the business. Every crisis is an opportunity to buy into some high-quality businesses. Don't let go a crisis go waste. You can't waste an opportunity. You can't waste a crisis if you are a long-term investor.Among the focuses of XMCs partnerships is how brokers can help clients through turbulent periods, whether its marital or employment strife, or even if theyve fallen ill.

On our uninsured side, we have selected specific client segments that we want to support through their financial needs, one of them being life events that have impacted their credit, continued Serra. We see many scenarios where illness, job loss or marital breakdown have contributed to clients credit challenges, and we work to help move them forward through those challenges.

XMC additionally offers other services to both brokers and their clients, including lead generation tools on its website and free appraisal promotions. The goal, says Serra, is to generate mutually beneficial circumstances.

Brokers are originating new business for us, and in return were looking to generate two things: Excellent experiences for them and, most importantly, excellent experiences for their customers. Lead generation, great turnaround times and advice really help our brokers, and for the customers, weve gone down the path of offering free appraisals to help them get comfortable funding their mortgage with XMC.

Ultimately, forging indomitable relationships with up-and-coming as well as established brokers is XMCs objective. One of the latter is Shawn Stillman, Mortgage Outlets principal broker, for whom XMC approved a deal four hours after submission last week. The deal will close in only six days.Statistics Canadas numbers indicated that licensed producers nationwide hired about 2,400 employees at the end of 2017, and BMO Capital Markets noted that around 3,500 people were working in the industry when the plant was legalized in mid-October.

Read more: More commercial opportunities coming with other pot products

Canopy Growth Corp., the countrys largest licensed producer in terms of market value, is looking to have about 1,200 positions fulfilled, with designations such as destruction lead hand and soft gel encapsulation manager indicating a strong need for skilled workers.

The company is expecting most of the prospective hires to be Canadian, given the countrys current status as a world leader in recreational marijuana.

Its kind of like a burden for the globe but its being borne in Canada because it has the most medical patients and its the best place to hire the people to do the research, CEO Bruce Linton said.Beyond prices and debt levels, Canada shares far fewer similarities with the U.S. than you might think. This becomes very apparent when you look at just one measure: credit quality, CPA Canada chief economist Francis Fong stated.

The situation in Canada is likely not a bubble in imminent danger of deflation; in fact, housing prices may reflect the true value of living space in Canada and in some markets increased household debt may be the new price for real estate.

Read more: Economic indicators point to further rate hikes  CMHC

CPA emphasized that this does not mean that the Canadian housing sector is risk-free, but that using the U.S. example to predict (and preemptively address) any wide-reaching problem would be futile since the two markets operate under entirely different conditions.

Among Canadas danger spots is the sharp increase in the number of consumers choosing non-regulated lenders. CPA warned that these borrowers are far less protected than those who borrow from regulated sources such as banks. At the same time, a measure of relief can be found in the fact that any issues arising from this would be less widespread than the U.S crisis.Despite heated Democratic opposition, the Senate has moved a step closer to confirming Kathy Kraninger as the new head of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

A motion to limit debate on Kraningers nomination passed on strict party lines Thursday, 50-49, according to American Banker. The motion advances Kraninger to a final vote, expected sometime this week.

Kraninger, currently an associate director for general government with the White Houses Office of Management and Budget, would succeed acting CFPB Director Mick Mulvaney. However, she has faced stiff opposition from Senate Democrats, who have pointed out that she has no experience in consumer protection, financial regulation or the banking industry. Democrats have also repeatedly blasted Kraninger for her refusal to explain her role in developing the policies that led to immigrant children being separated from their parents at the border and the governments botched response to Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico.The Museum of the Southwest announced that it will be home to the only Science on a Sphere interactive educational system in West Texas at its Blakemore Planetarium, thanks to grants from Cimarex Energy Co. and the Abell-Hanger Foundation.

Science on a Sphere (SOAS) is a room-sized interactive system that uses the internet, computers and video projectors to display planetary and astronomical data onto a giant animated globe. Developed by researchers at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the system uses datasets from NOAA, NASA, universities, science centers and other organizations to explain complex natural processes or other subjects to people of all ages. The sphere can be controlled by staff on an iPad or iPhone, and easy-to-use digital controls can be offered to the public.

The closest SOAS is housed in the American Airlines C.R. Smith Museum in Fort Worth.

The Cimarex Science on a Sphere will be an incredible leap forward in how we teach STEM subjects in partnership with area schools, as well as a fantastic complement to our DigiStar 5 Planetarium Projector, Executive Director Dan Eck said in a press release. Working with our local schools, well develop presentations of real-time global weather patterns, historical earthquake and tsunami effects, or take students on virtual trips to the moon, Mars, Jupiter and the rest of the solar system. We can even animate the growth and decline of historical empires across continents, or map the global transfer of information through the internet and social media connections. Thanks to Cimarex and the Abell-Hanger Foundation, students and other visitors will be able to gather around this sphere and learn about our Earth and other planets in ways we never dreamed possible until now.

Cimarex Energy Co. has been a steadfast partner with the museum. The company has sponsored free admission Sundays since 2014 and was the lead sponsor for Portraits of Courage exhibition of paintings by George W. Bush earlier this year.

Cimarex Energy is delighted to support Science on a Sphere at the Museum of the Southwest, President and CEO Tom Jorden said in the release. STEM education is a priority for us and the Science on a Sphere will engage kids at all levels in a new and exciting way.

Along with Cimarex, the Abell-Hanger Foundation helped contribute to getting the program at the Museum of the Southwest.

Were pleased to support this kind of forward-looking installation and programming at the museum, foundation Executive Director Mark Palmer said. Science on a Sphere holds the promise of unique and compelling educational opportunities for the students of our West Texas region. The ability of this unique tool to elevate traditionally two-dimensional study to a three-dimensional sensory experience in geography, meteorology, and other scientific concepts will be captivating for students and adults alike.

The Museum plans to begin renovations and installation of the sphere system in early 2019.Bush-era memorabilia auctioned off at home fundraiser

The Horseshoe Pavilion was transformed into an intimate formal ballroom for The George W. Bush Childhood Home gala Big Band Bash. White silk curtains were draped from mid-air with hints of red hue glowing through; gold-plated chargers were set at each place; flower vases holding a variety of roses and sprays adorned each table; and chairs were covered with beautiful black slipcovers.

Guests walked the red carpet to enter the event and found Bush-era memorabilia as silent auction items, including a signed piece featuring Bushs speech on 9/11. Also up for bid were playing cards, lapel pins and a Christmas ornament, all from Camp David, and a replica of Barbara Bushs pearl clip-on earrings. While bidding and mingling before dinner, guests gravitated toward the Yall come EAT sign that was displayed on the appetizer table featuring melons, strawberries, grapes, oranges, pineapple, cheeses, apples, pretzels, crackers, prosciutto, sausages, pepperoni, rolls and relish.

Guests dined on rib-eye steak, grilled chicken, jalapeno smashed potatoes, green beans, rolls and cherry cobbler for dessert. The live auction got underway as dinner wrapped up. Those items featured a private tour of the capital, tickets to Hamilton in Chicago, a trip to the Kentucky Derby, tickets to the Super Bowl, and a trip to the final round of the Masters.

St. Louis Big Band provided music for dancing.

Underwriters for the event included Midland Meat Co., Frost Bank and Richard and Sigrid Coats.

Petroleum Museum celebrates 43rd anniversary

The Permian Basin Petroleum Museum celebrated its 43rd anniversary with Birthday Bash at the Boomtown Saloon. The western- and oil-themed invitation asked guests to starch their jeans and polish their hats, then mosey on over to the museum to remember its successes and to celebrate the future.

Guests dined on a buffet of brisket, salad, garlic mashed potatoes, bacon-wrapped asparagus and rolls. For dessert, there was chocolate or vanilla birthday cake. Each cake was decorated with fondant icing that mimicked a blue-and-white bandana. Atop the bandana on one cake was a glittery silver 43 with an antique 6-shot revolver in front of it.

After dinner, attendees went into the Mineral Gallery to try their hand at games, including roulette, craps and black jack. Party-goers could also take a chance on winning the evenings raffle item, the Tom Lovell print, Tumbleweed Serenade.State lawmakers continue to discuss a bill to curtail the use of antibiotics in livestock in Illinois to prevent drug-resistant bacteria in humans.

Lawmakers talked about the legislation  sponsored by outgoing state Sen. Daniel Biss, D-Evanston  during a joint hearing of the Senate Agriculture and Public Health Committees.

Should lawmakers pick up the legislation next spring, it would limit the use to only medically-important antibiotics that may be administered to a food-producing animal only if prescribed by a veterinarian licensed under the Veterinary Medicine and Surgery Practice Act of 2004 who has visited the farm operation within the previous 6 months and only if deemed necessary for specified purposes.

Biss called the matter a global public health challenge.

Once it gets too out of control, theres just nothing that can be done, he said. You affect everyones health, regardless of their proximity to the agriculture industry.

Agriculture advocates say the United States Department of Agriculture has measures in place to address antimicrobial resistance.

This is a complicated problem and it will require many of the best scientific minds to develop sound, science-based solutions, said Aaron Lower, a veterinarian from Carroll County. The [Food and Drug Administration] is more qualified to investigate and develops regulations on these important issues versus the Illinois Department of Agriculture or the Illinois Department of Public Health.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned that antibiotic-resistant bacteria can be passed from livestock to people through the handling of raw foods, transmission via water or external sources or by caring for livestock.Photo provided

Salem Lutheran School fifth- through seventh-graders tie fleece blankets that later were donated to New Directions Warming and Cooling Center.Joseph and Elizabeth Duncan borrowed architectural features from two different homes they had known when they built their mansion on the outskirts of Jacksonville.

Before choosing a building site, the Duncans decided to incorporate the designs of two houses  Joseph Duncans birthplace in Paris, Kentucky, and the Matthew St. Clair Clarke home in Washington, D.C.  into their new Jacksonville residence.

The exterior of the Duncan Mansion resembles Duncans birthplace, which still stands, while the mansions interior was supposedly copied from the Clarke houses floor plan. The Clarke house was the home of Mrs. Duncans sister, Anna Smith Clarke.

The large house the Duncans built was indeed a mansion for the Jacksonville area in the 1830s, when most of their neighbors lived in crude log cabins.

The Duncans used their considerable wealth to pay carpenters to build their two- and one-half-story house out of native oak and walnut.

Construction on the mansion, which the Duncans named elm Grove after the elm trees that surrounded their home, began in November 1833 and was not completed until 1835, according to Mrs. Duncans diary.

The mansion, when finished, was home to the newly elected governor, his wife, three children and some servants. And, as the governors mansion, the Duncans home is said to have hosted great American political figures such as Daniel Webster, Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas.

The house also was the site of many happy and sad moments for the Duncan family. The six youngest of the Duncans 10 children were all born at Elm Grove, and at least four of the children, as well as Joseph Duncan himself, died there. Of the 10 children, only three lived to adulthood.

From 1865 to 1875, Elizabeth Duncan rented the mansion to the state of Illinois for use as an experimental school to train and educate feeble-minded children. This school was later moved to Lincoln.

About 1880, the Duncans daughter, Julia Duncan Kirby, moved into the mansion, and she and her husband, Judge Edward P. Kirby, remodeled the house and added its three-tiered porches.

Kirby continued to live in the Duncan Mansion even after his wifes death and his subsequent marriage to Lucinda Gallaher.

The Rev. James Caldwell Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution bought the house in 1920 from the second Mrs. Kirby. The mansion has served as the DAR home since then.

The Duncan Mansion was included in the Historic American Buildings Survey conducted by the federal government in 1934. Architects took measured drawings of every aspect of the house at that time. And, in 1971, the house was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

This Way We Were story was first published Oct. 9, 2000.Did the autumn blizzard that snarled last weeks commute send a message on climate change? Deniers likely took comfort. As President Donald Trump smugly tweeted last week when he saw a wintry forecast: Whatever happened to Global Warming?

For the rest of us, though, who accept the science, this storm  one of the worst November storms to hit the state  was a reminder: Weather extremes are costly and dangerous. Prepare for more.

Certainly one snowfall was neither proof of climate change nor a rebuttal; it was an individual event and not unprecedented. But look at Mondays damage from downed power lines and trees  the lost productivity and general inconvenience. Think about how unusual it was to contend with as much as a foot of snow on Nov. 26. Then imagine the worldwide impacts of such intensified weather phenomena as melting snow caps, pelting rains, catastrophic heat waves. Thats the troubling future, unless humans take aggressive action to clean the atmosphere of greenhouse gases that are warming the planet.

The federal government released a devastating scientific report anticipating the long-term effects of global warming to the United States. It makes for frightening reading by seeming to turn the world upside-down. Rising seas could drive millions of Americans inland. Decreases in oxygen levels in the oceans will kill coral reefs and deplete fishing catches. But warmer winters will expand the territory of bark beetles, which will harm trees. Severe weather will cause bridges, roads and rails to crumble. Forests will burn. Water shortages in the West will intensify. Phoenix could suffer through 90 days a year of 110-degree heat (versus 10 such days a year of extreme heat recently).

For the Midwest, the report warns that sopping rains will damage crops, then heat waves will fry them. Humid conditions will spur the growth of pests and pathogens that will degrade the quality of stored corn or soybeans. Before mid-century, the report says, Midwest agricultural productivity will slip back to levels of the 1980s.

The authors pull no punches on the existence of climate change. The global average temperature increased by about 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit from 1901 to 2016. There is no credible natural explanation.

The evidence consistently points to human activities, especially emissions of greenhouse or heat-trapping gases, as the dominant cause, the report says.

With the science settled, this report  required by Congress  focused on the long-term impacts, including the economic toll. Unless steps are taken to mitigate warming, climate change could cost hundreds of billions of dollars a year: losses from the agricultural sector, tourism, the reduced efficiency of power generation, damage to infrastructure and more.

Its a travesty  as well as an oddity  that Trump aligns himself with the minority of doubters on climate change. His interest in downplaying the risks no doubt relates to his commitment to freeing energy and manufacturing companies of tough environmental regulations in order to encourage job growth. Yet the report argues persuasively that Trump would get burned by his own thinking in the long run: The economy will decline if temperatures continue to rise.

Maybe the president will wake up to the threat. Otherwise, members of Congress can take the lead to re-establish priorities that include reducing carbon emissions from coal plants and vehicles. The public also has an important say  as voters, yes, but also as consumers who can choose environmentally friendly products and therefore push companies to act.

As Gary Yohe, an economics and environment expert at Wesleyan University, told the Washington Post, We have wasted 15 years of response time. If we waste another five years of response time, the story gets worse.

Or, to think more positively: Its not too late to act.

 Chicago TribuneMetro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 3)  Maria Ressa, President of Rappler Holdings Corporation and online news website Rappler, has posted bail for her tax evasion case at the Pasig City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 265.

In a story published on its website, Rappler said Ressa posted a bail of 60,000 on Monday following an arrest warrant issued against her.

In the Pasig RTC's arrest order dated November 28, the court said Ressa violated Section 255 of the National Internal Revenue Code.

In a statement Monday, Ressa confirmed there was an arrest warrant released on the basis of what she believes as "politically-motivated charges."

"I surrendered to the court this morning, went through the process of what a criminal would go through, and filed bail without surrendering my right to question the Pasig court's jurisdiction over this tax case. This is a clear case of harassment," Ressa said.

Media organizations called for the charges' immediate revocation, describing the legal move as part of the crackdown by the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte on critics.

"The ongoing crackdown by the Duterte administration against critical voices and particularly Rappler are a violation of the Philippines' free press and detrimental to the country's democracy," The International Federation of Journalists based in Brussels said in a statement.

The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists said authorities have increased legal harassment of Rappler and Duterte "is leading a tri-pronged attack on the press amid condemnation of some of his policies."

The Justice Department on Thursday filed five new tax cases against Ressa, for failure to file income and value-added tax returns in violation of Sections 254 and 255 of the Tax Code.

Four of these tax cases were filed before the Court of Tax Appeals on November 26 and 28, while a fifth case was separately filed at the Pasig RTC Branch 265 also last month.

In March, the Bureau of Internal Revenue filed a 133.8 million tax evasion case against the company.

Duterte had no hand in Ressa case, Panelo says

Meanwhile, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo denied President Duterte had a hand in the recent tax charges against Ressa, who has been known as a critic of the administration.

In a media briefing Monday, Panelo said the President has "too many obligations" and insisted there has been no persecution of the journalist.

"You violate tax laws and you will be prosecuted. If you have a justifiable reason for so doing or will introduce evidence to show it's not true, then you will be acquitted," Panelo told reporters in Malacanang.

The spokesman added Ressa can always avail of the legal remedies present.

"The constitution says every person charged with crime is presumed innocent unless proven otherwise by competent evidence beyond reasonable doubt, proof," Panelo said.

"Everyone is entitled to the presumption of innocence and that includes everybody including Ms Ressa," he noted.The White House View Photos

President Trump issued a statement on the death of George Herbert Walker Bush, the forty-first President of the United States.

Trump was Mondays KVML Newsmaker of the Day. Here are his words:

It is my sorrowful duty to announce officially the death of George Herbert Walker Bush, the forty-first President of the United States, on November 30, 2018.

President Bush led a great American life, one that combined and personified two of our Nations greatest virtues: an entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to public service. Our country will greatly miss his inspiring example.

On the day he turned 18, 6 months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, George H.W. Bush volunteered for combat duty in the Second World War. The youngest aviator in United States naval history at the time, he flew 58 combat missions, including one in which, after taking enemy fire, he parachuted from his burning plane into the Pacific Ocean. After the war, he returned home and started a business. In his words, the big thing he learned from this endeavor was the satisfaction of creating jobs.

The same unselfish spirit that motivated his business pursuits later inspired him to resume the public service he began as a young man. First, as a member of Congress, then as Ambassador to the United Nations, Chief of the United States Liaison Office in China, Director of Central Intelligence, Vice President, and finally President of the United States, George H.W. Bush guided our Nation through the Cold War, to its peaceful and victorious end, and into the decades of prosperity that have followed. Through sound judgment, practical wisdom, and steady leadership, President Bush made safer the second half of a tumultuous and dangerous century.

Even with all he accomplished in service to our Nation, President Bush remained humble. He never believed that government  even when under his own leadership  could be the source of our Nations strength or its greatness. America, he rightly told us, is illuminated by a thousand points of light, ethnic, religious, social, business, labor union, neighborhood, regional and other organizations, all of them varied, voluntary and unique in which Americans serve Americans to build and maintain the greatest Nation on the face of the Earth. President Bush recognized that these communities of people are the true source of Americas strength and vitality.

It is with great sadness that we mark the passing of one of Americas greatest points of light, the death of President George H.W. Bush.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, in honor and tribute to the memory of President George H.W. Bush, and as an expression of public sorrow, do hereby direct that the flag of the United States be displayed at half-staff at the White House and on all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions for a period of 30 days from the day of his death. I also direct that, for the same length of time, the representatives of the United States in foreign countries shall make similar arrangements for the display of the flag at half staff over their embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

I hereby order that suitable honors be rendered by units of the Armed Forces under orders of the Secretary of Defense.

I do further appoint December 5, 2018, as a National Day of Mourning throughout the United States. I call on the American people to assemble on that day in their respective places of worship, there to pay homage to the memory of President George H.W. Bush. I invite the people of the world who share our grief to join us in this solemn observance.

The Newsmaker of the Day is heard every weekday morning at 6:45, 7:45 and 8:45 on AM 1450 and FM 102.7 KVML.Associated Press Writer

You could call it Railroad One.

Union Pacific Railroad unveiled a new locomotive on Tuesday named in honor of former President Bush.

The locomotive, shown in public for the first time at a ceremony on the Texas A&M University campus, bears the number 4141, in honor of Bush, who was the 41st president. It is painted to resemble Air Force One, the presidential plane.

"If I had one of these when I was president, I might have left Air Force One behind," Bush said.

The 74-foot long and 16-foot tall diesel locomotive weighs about 420,000 pounds and is expected to operate for at least 1 million miles over the next decade. "George Bush 41 Presidential Library and Museum" is painted on its side. It also carries the presidential seal.

"This is the only president who can say he has his own locomotive," said Dick Davidson, chairman and chief executive of Union Pacific, the largest railroad in North America.

The idea for the locomotive grew out of a collaboration between Union Pacific and Bush's presidential library at Texas A&M to present an exhibit honoring the history of the country's railroad industry.

"This is only the sixth time in Union Pacific's history where we've deviated from coloring a locomotive anything other than the traditional UP yellow," Davidson said.

Robert Turner, a senior vice president with Union Pacific, said the railroad previously painted special locomotives for the 2001 Winter Olympics, for Desert Storm, for the United Way and three heritage series ones honoring the company's history.

"It's the only one we've ever done for an individual," he said.

Bush said the unveiling of the locomotive brought back memories of when he was a child, sleeping on trains when he traveled with his family.

"We just rode on the railroads all the time and I've never forgotten it," he said.

Bush said while Air Force One might be a little more comfortable as far as travel goes, he called the new locomotive "the Air Force One of railroads."

The locomotive was to be on display at the Bush Presidential Library for about a week, beginning Wednesday.

After that it will go into regular service for Union Pacific, initially in Texas, but possibly all across the country, Turner said.

"It's all registered. It's all legal. It meets all the requirements for railcars," he said.

Bush said the unveiling of the locomotive is a great way to begin his library's "Trains: Tracks of the Iron Horse" exhibit, which opens next month and runs through July.

"This (locomotive) is then going to go to work for (Union Pacific), making money," Bush said.South Padre Island's inaugural Holiday Sandcastle Village is underway and proving the beach fun is not summertime-exclusive.

The new, outdoor event, hosted at the South Padre Island Convention Centre, at 7355 Padre Blvd., is a collection of massive works of themed sand art. Guests can marvel at builds like a Sand Snowman and Sand-ta Friday through Sunday, until Dec. 16.

RELATED: Interesting holiday events happening in San Antonio

The free experience includes lighted musical performances at dusk, according to event details posted online.

Sandcastle Island Inc., is the group of artists behind the event who are dedicated to using the monuments to raise awareness for beach conservation, according to the non-profit's website.

See some of the impressive sand sculptures in the gallery above.

Madalyn Mendoza is a breaking news and general assignment writer. Read her on our breaking news site, mySA.com and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com | mmendoza@mysa.com |@MaddySkyeWASHINGTON  The nations capital embraced George H.W. Bush in death Monday with solemn ceremony and tributes to his service and decency, as the remains of the 41st president took their place in the Capitol rotunda for three days of mourning by the political elite and everyday citizens alike.

With Bushs casket atop the Lincoln Catafalque, first used for Abraham Lincolns 1865 funeral, dignitaries came forward to honor the Texan whose efforts for his country extended three quarters of a century from World War II through his final years as an advocate for volunteerism and relief for people displaced by natural disaster.

President from 1989 to 1993, Bush died Friday at age 94.

In an invocation opening Monday evenings ceremony, the U.S. House chaplain, the Rev. Patrick Conroy, praised Bushs commitment to service, from Navy pilot to congressman, U.N. ambassador, envoy to China and then CIA director before being elected vice president and then president.

Here lies a great man, said Rep. Paul Ryan, the House speaker, and a gentle soul. ... His legacy is grace perfected.

Sent off from Texas with a 21-gun salute, Bushs casket was carried to Joint Base Andrews outside the capital city aboard an aircraft that usually serves as Air Force One and designated Special Air Mission 41 in honor of Bushs place on the chronological list of presidents.

Cannon roared again outside the Capitol as the sun sank and his eldest son, former President George W. Bush, stood with his hand over his heart, watching the caskets procession up the steps.

Bush was remembered just feet away from what he called Democracys front porch, the west-facing steps of the Capitol where he was sworn in as president.

He will lie in state in the Capitol for public visitation through Wednesday. An invitation-only funeral service is set for Wednesday at Washington National Cathedral. President Trump and first lady Melania Trump are to attend.

Although Bushs funeral services are suffused with the flourishes accorded presidents, by his choice they will not include a formal funeral procession through downtown Washington.

The younger President Bush, his wife, Laura, and others from the family traveled on the flight from Houston.

On Sunday, students, staff and visitors had flocked to Bushs presidential library on the campus of Texas A&M University, with thousands of mourners paying their respects at a weekend candlelight vigil at a nearby pond and others contributing to growing flower memorials at Bush statues at both the library and in a park in downtown Houston.

After services in Washington, Bush will be returned to Houston to lie in repose at St. Martins Episcopal Church before burial Thursday at his family plot on the library grounds. His final resting place will be alongside Barbara Bush, his wife of 73 years who died in April, and Robin Bush, the daughter they lost to leukemia in 1953 at age 3.

Calvin Woodward, Darlene Superville, Juan Lozano and Nomaan Merchant are Associated Press writers.A judge here this morning signed expunction papers, erasing the criminal histories of four women who were wrongly convicted in 1994 of sexually assaulting two girls.

Elizabeth Ramirez, now 44, Cassandra Rivera, 43, Kristie Mayhugh, 44, and Anna Vasquez, 43, consistently maintained their innocence from that day 24 years ago when Ramirezs nieces, then ages 7 and 9, accused the women of brutalizing them while on a weekend visit with their aunt.

I wanted to thank the court for making time and signing the order of exoneration. I think that a little over 20 years ago the criminal justice system made a horrible mistake and convicted four innocent women, said Mike Ware, executive director of the Innocence Project, which has fought for the womens freedom. Its tragic. But what we can be proud of it that it does provide a process to correct mistakes it made, and it has done what the system provides.

OnExpressNews.com: San Antonio Four exonerated by Texas Court of Criminal Appeals

State District Judge Catherine Torres-Stahl signed the orders that expunged the records, and called the women up to the bench, one by one, to hand them the documents.

Having a felony conviction on ones record can make it difficult to get employment or even a place to live. With the expunction, the womens convictions on sexual assault are gone.

As each took the papers and read them, they cried, as did relatives who sat in the gallery of the 175th state District Court.

READ ALSO: The S.A. Four  the limbo between freedom and exoneration

It is my honor and privilege, said Torres-Stahl. Its not often we have the ability to do that, to see a wrong made right.

This is a developing story.

ezavala@express-news.net | Twitter: @elizabeth2863An off-duty Bexar County deputy was arrested Monday on a domestic violence charge, according to the sheriff's office.

The deputy, Michael DeWitt, was arrested by San Antonio police at about 6:10 a.m. after he allegedly assaulted the victim by choking or strangulating them. He was booked into the Bexar County Jail on a $3,500 bond.A San Antonio man allegedly stabbed two people during an argument Sunday on the South Side, according to police.

Johnny Delarosa, 32, was arrested on two charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to jail records. His bail was set at $150,000.A 33-year-old woman was killed late Sunday in a multi-vehicle crash on the Northeast Side, police said.

Jennifer White was stopped at a red light at Perrin Beitel Road and Naco Perrin Boulevard at about 10:15 p.m. when Dakota Blaine Lovelace, 23, slammed into the back of her car.

RELATED: SAPD: Man arrested following fatal stabbing, facing murder charges

The force of the impact carried both vehicles into the intersection, where they collided with a box truck.

White was pinned inside her vehicle and later pronounced dead at the scene. Paramedics evaluated Lovelace at the scene and determined he was intoxicated, according to a preliminary police report.

Lovelace was taken to San Antonio Military Medical Center for treatment and remotely booked into the Bexar County Jail on a charge of intoxication manslaughter.

Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com

Caleb Downs covers crime in San Antonio and Bexar County. Read him on our breaking news site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com |

cdowns@mysa.com | @calebjdownsAs the United States and China face off, President Donald Trump seems determined to disarm his own country - to undermine our greatest strengths.

I'm not talking about tariffs or trade rules, soybeans or steel, or whatever else Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping jawboned about Saturday in Buenos Aires as they negotiated a 90-day truce in their commercial disputes.

I'm talking about something more fundamental. Long after the truce expires, China will be promoting its authoritarian model throughout the world as a superior alternative to Western democracy.

In that competition, China boasts that one-party rule enables long-term planning and follow-through. It can complete huge infrastructure projects without pesky citizen opposition or time-sucking environmental studies. It can offer loans to small-country dictators without bothering about corruption, transparency or human rights. Its huge internal market, shielded from outside competitors, nurtures homegrown companies. Its vast storehouse of data on every citizen, collected without permission or respect for privacy, gives its companies an invaluable resource.

I'm skeptical about some of those claims. Central planning has not generally been associated with efficiency, and one-man rule can enable massive mistakes as well as massive achievements.

But China's record of development over the past four decades is astonishing - in fact, unmatched in human history in the sheer number of people raised out of poverty. So let's assume it can continue; let's stipulate the strengths they claim. How does the United States counter?

One comparative advantage, historically, has been the depth and quality of America's alliances. A visiting American once chided a Chinese leader for his country's liaisons with unsavory regimes. "What do you expect?" the leader replied. "You've taken all the good ones."

If Trump had set out to squander that advantage, it's hard to see how he could have done better. His first move was to withdraw from the Trans-Pacific Partnership, which would have united the strongest economies on both sides of the Pacific Ocean in a covenant dedicated to the rule of law, fair treatment of workers and open investment.

Since then, he has communicated to Japan, South Korea and others an entirely transactional view of the world: Pay more or be abandoned. Nations desperate for a bulwark against Chinese bullying no longer know where to turn.

Another historical advantage has been America's ability to attract and integrate talent from abroad. Countless brilliant students have chosen to come to our universities; many of them go on to found successful companies, make groundbreaking discoveries and contribute in other ways.

Trump has done everything he can to squander that advantage, too, from his first-week travel ban that posted a virtual Do Not Enter sign on our borders, to his continual demeaning of foreigners and immigrants, to his refusal to engage seriously in reform of immigration laws. The United States remains a magnet, but it is being tarnished.

Third, strange though this may sound right now, we benefit from the strength of our government and those who serve in it, both civilian and military. They have shown that a democracy can function competently with an incorruptible tax service, a highly knowledgeable diplomatic corps and more.

Trump has, with Congress, funded the military generously and put it in good hands. But he has shown contempt for the civil service and its leadership, and morale in many agencies is drooping. Almost halfway through his term, barely half of key government positions are filled - 378 of 704, according to a tracker maintained jointly by The Washington Post and the Partnership for Public Service. Trump disparages the "deep state" and makes nominations - his personal physician to run the 377,000-employee Department of Veterans Affairs, for example - that mock the mission.

That contempt underlies Trump's most damaging sabotage of what should be America's greatest comparative strength: its fidelity to democratic values.

Even if China continued to boast shinier airports and faster trains than the United States, many people in the world would prefer to live where they can speak freely, choose their leaders, worship whatever god they prefer. China, rounding up Muslims in concentration camps and torturing lawyers who defend the rule of law, presents an easy foil.

Yet Trump cedes this advantage, too. He embraces dictators who murder imagined enemies, smears the press as unpatriotic and deceitful, spits on the independent judiciary, threatens to wield the law against personal enemies and conflates his private interests with the public welfare. Rather than offering a contrast to the authoritarians of the world, he seems to model himself on them.

Alliances, diversity, governance, liberty: These should be America's aces. Until we again have a leader who values them, we will be ceding to China the upper hand.It didnt take long Thursday for President Trumps tweeted complaint about the Robert Mueller probe  will it just go on forever?  to look like wishful thinking. Michael Cohens blockbuster court appearance made it clear that Trump is really going to hate the way the investigation ends.

Unless, of course, the president tries to end it himself with some sort of pre-emptive strike  which is why this is a dangerous moment. The walls are closing in, and by now we should know that Trump will put self-interest above such hindrances as the law and the Constitution.

With no advance notice, Cohen  who once was Trumps personal attorney and fixer  appeared in federal court in Manhattan and admitted lying to Congress about Trumps business dealings in Russia.

Trump insisted during his presidential campaign that I have nothing to do with Russia. Cohen originally claimed in written testimony to the Senate and House intelligence committees that his attempts to forge a deal for a Trump-branded skyscraper in Moscow ended in January 2016  before the first contest of the primary season, the Iowa caucuses, took place.

Court papers released Thursday tell a different story: Negotiating on behalf of the Trump Organization, Cohen continued to seek Russian President Vladimir Putins approval for the proposed Moscow tower at least through June of 2016  a fact that was hidden from voters by Trumps bald-faced lies.

By far the worst development for Trump is that the document charging Cohen with the felony offense of making false statements to Congress is signed, Robert S. Mueller III, Special Counsel. Cohens earlier guilty plea involving hush-money payments to Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal was handled by prosecutors from the Southern District of New York. Now, the keeper of some of Trumps deepest and darkest secrets is singing sweetly to Mueller.

The second-worst thing for the president is Cohens acknowledgement that he regularly briefed Trump family members ... within the Company about the Moscow negotiations. This suggests that Donald Jr., Eric and Ivanka Trump may also be in Muellers crosshairs.

Trump gave the response he always gives when hes caught in a big fat lie: I didnt do it. But hey, if I did do it, it wasnt a crime.

Speaking to reporters on the White House lawn, Trump said that Michael Cohen is lying. But he added, I was running my business while I was campaigning. There was a good chance that I wouldnt have won, in which case I would have gotten back into the business. And why should I lose lots of opportunities?

For once, he let slip a nugget of truth. Running for president was just one of several angles he was pursuing at the time. Trumps candidacy was never about the country. It was always about the family business, and still is.

Cohens court appearance came just a day after Trump said he was considering a presidential pardon for another keeper of his secrets  Paul Manafort, the former chairman of his campaign, who was found guilty of a host of white-collar crimes and pleaded guilty to others. Why would I take it off the table? Trump asked, in a New York Post interview, about the possibility of pardoning Manafort, who faces a decade or more in prison.

Manafort had signed a deal pledging to cooperate with Muellers investigation, but it was revealed this week that Manaforts lawyers have been secretly sharing information with Trumps lawyers. That becomes something else for Trump to worry about. How long had Mueller known that Manafort was playing both sides of the street? When the Trump team met to exchange information with the Manafort team, were the presidents lawyers hearing only what Mueller wanted them to hear?

Mueller charged that Manafort has been lying to him. According to the Wall Street Journal, at least some of those lies involve Manaforts contacts with a Ukrainian associate who has ties to Russian intelligence.

Meanwhile, Trumps longtime friend Roger Stone and his associate Jerome Corsi have said they expect to be charged by Mueller over alleged contacts with WikiLeaks, which published emails embarrassing to Democrats and damaging to the Hillary Clinton campaign that were stolen by, get ready for it, Russian hackers.

All roads seem to lead to Russia, and they are beginning to converge. Each new move from Mueller comes out of the blue; no one can be sure how much he knows or what he might do next. Trump must increasingly feel cornered. The one thing I can predict confidently is that he wont go down without a fight.

eugenerobinson@washpost.comEver since the World's Fair was hosted in San Antonio in 1968, local leaders have been mulling over development options for Hemisfair Park, which was a made up of homes and businesses before the fair.

Developer David Adelman is among those paving the way forward. His project, The '68, will be the first apartment complex in the park. Initial move-ins are scheduled for March, and Adelman anticipates the complex will be finished by late spring. He is now accepting registration for leasing tours, which will begin January 2019.

Formerly dubbed Acequia Lofts, the complex's new name references the park's history.

"I was really enamored with 1968, the year of Hemisfair," Adelman said. "We've brought a bunch of Hemisfair memorabilia to open this building and all the artwork will be from the world's fair. Some of the design elements are a nod to the 1960s."

RELATED: Single-family homes just listed for sale in San Antonio

The L-shaped, $25-million project stands eight stories tall and will have 151 units, primarily studios and one bedrooms. Its design is inspired by the Casino Club building downtown, Adelman said.

As required by a Hemisfair policy, 10 percent of the apartments will be affordably-priced "workforce housing," set aside to households earning a certain portion of the Bexar County area's median income, adjusted for household size, Adelman said.

Any future apartment complexes in Hemisfair will be expected to uphold the same policy.

It's part of a test that Hemisfair officials are conducting, according to Hemisfair CEO Andres Andujar. Adelman's willingness to comply with the conditions proves that developers in the area are ready to invest in mixed-income housing complexes, Andujar said.

"Hemisfair is a laboratory for the city's testing of concepts like this anti-gentrification formula, delivered through the mixed-income housing policy," Andujar said. "What we are trying to do is deliver one of the world's greatest places."

Adelman has also opted to participate in a statewide program that exempts the complex from property taxes as long as at least 50 percent of the units (including the Hemisfair 10 percent) are offered to residents earning 80 percent or less of the area median income.

The '68 will be exempt from property taxes as long as it complies with the state's program requirements. If Adelman decides to opt out at any point, the complex will be free from the 50 percent restriction. It will, however, still be required to adhere to Hemisfair's 10 percent rule.

RELATED: Downtown's next hurdle: affordable housing

Tenants will have access to a secure parking garage and a small gym, but the primary amenities will be the low cost and easy access to downtown, Adelman said. Monthly rent for the market rate apartments will start at $1,000 for the studios, $1,250 for one bedrooms and $1,600 for the two bedrooms.

"We kept the apartments fairly small in square foot in order to maintain that more affordable price," Adelman said. "I think being in the middle of all the action is pretty cool. And the views are outstanding."

The first floor will feature a restaurant (with a to-be-decided tenant) and the parking garage will be big enough for guests and the public to pay to use.

Visit the website for more information about tour registration and leasing.The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera) announced new prices for diesel and petrol, which saw an increase of four cents per litre for both commodities as from Saturday to reflect the new tax regime by Finance minister Mthuli Ncube.

Diesel is now selling at $1,34 a litre from $1,30, while petrol has gone up to $1,38 a litre from $1,34.

In a statement, the regulatory authority said the figures represented maximum freight on board (FOB) and pump prices for the different fuels.

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority advises that in terms of the Statutory Instrument 20 and 100 of 2015, the applicable FOB prices starting on December 1, 2018 are summarised as FOB diesel $0,6500 and blend $0,5450, while maximum pump price for diesel is $1,34 and blend $1,38, the statement read.

Zimbabwe has over the last few weeks been experiencing erratic fuel supplies, which have been blamed on foreign currency shortages.

The shortages have resulted in some motorists resorting to the black market, where the fuel is sold at a premium price, with some dealers demanding payment in foreign currency.

The government on Friday allayed shortages fears saying they have released $60 million for the scarce commodity.

A survey by NewsDay showed that most fuel service stations are dry, with very long queues at most service stations, even those without fuel.

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Related Zimbabwe Latest NewsThe Zimbabwe Defence Forces has dismissed a story being peddled by some privately-owned publications alleging that Elliot Piki, a senior officer dishonourably discharged from the army for having an affair with his subordinates wife, was kidnapped from his home on Sunday last week.

Zimbabwe Defence Forces spokesperson Colonel Overson Mugwisi said Piki was working with unscrupulous political opposition voices to denigrate the Zimbabwe Defence Forces through the private media.

He said it was a question of sour grapes and desperate efforts to tarnish the image of ZDF.

We are disturbed by false allegations peddled in some sections of the private media insinuating that Elliot Piki, a former member of the Zimbabwe National Army, was abducted by masked armed men suspected to be State security agents using a vehicle similar to those allocated for use by senior Zimbabwe National Army officers, said Col Mugwisi.

While it is true that Elliot Piki once served in the Zimbabwe National Army as a senior officer, he is not a retired colonel.

He became an ordinary citizen after losing his commission when he was tried, convicted and cashiered by a General Court Martial for scandalous conduct of an officer on August 8, 2013.

Piki had involved himself in an illicit love affair with his subordinates wife who was also his junior serving member of the Zimbabwe National Army. Sadly, Piki was aware of the drastic consequences of such an illicit affair for serving members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.

Pikis lawyers now claim he escaped from his kidnappers in Rushinga, in Mashonaland Central.

According to the articles in the private newspapers, Piki was allegedly abducted by armed masked men, amid claims at the time that he was due to testify before the Commission of Inquiry into the August 1 post-election violence that resulted in the death of six people.

On Tuesday last week, according to the newspapers report, Piki pitched up at the commission of inquiry where he was allegedly barred from testifying.

The Commission has denied that Piki was listed to testify before it.

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Related Zimbabwe Latest NewsIn yet another controversy that has engulfed problems-prone Finance minister Mthuli Ncube, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has blocked him from appointing economist and former opposition kingpin  Eddie Cross  as his special advisor, the Daily News can report.

The development comes barely two months after Ncube was left with egg on his face, following his brief but equally controversial appointment of rabble-rousing influence-peddler, William Gerald Mutumanje  also known as Acie Lumumba  as his communications spearhead.

In the ensuing fallout over that ill-advised appointment, Lumumba later admitted that he had been paid to do a hatchet job on four Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) senior officials, as well as introverted businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei.

Ncube was later compelled to sack Mutumanje after the latter had made a cocktail of staggering allegations on social media, regarding untested illegal foreign currency dealings at the central bank  claims which shook both Zanu PF and the government to their core.

Authoritative sources told the Daily News yesterday that Mnangagwa had intervened in the Cross appointment to avert another embarrassment for his government and the ruling Zanu PF.

Cross was, until his recent retirement from public life, a respected senior MDC official, and also MP for Bulawayo South for the party until the hotly-disputed July 30 national elections.

There is no doubt that the appointment would have caused ructions in the party considering that Cross is still seen as an opposition member whose comrades continue to refuse to accept EDs presidency.

It would also have been unprecedented in the history of the party, outside of the government of national unity, to see an influential member of the opposition being given such a role  when there are many people in Zanu PF who can do that unnecessary job, one of the well-placed sources said.

Efforts by the Daily News yesterday to get a comment from Ncube did not yield results.

But the amiable Cross confirmed that he was supposed to have started work at the Finance ministry on November 1, before things went pear-shaped.

Asked if he thought that the government no longer required his expertise, the former Member of Parliaments Budget and Finance Committee, as well as the Public Accounts Committee, said: Lets wait and see what eventually happens.

Information deputy minister Energy Mutodi said he was not aware of Cross appointment.

As far as we are concerned, the president has not yet said anything to that effect (the appointment). We have not yet heard about that even from Cabinet briefings, he said.

Had Cross joined the Finance ministry, it would have marked a return to familiar territory, as he worked for many years in government before and after the countrys independence in 1980.

He first worked in the Agriculture ministry, and then as an economist with the Agricultural Marketing Authority. He was later appointed as the chief executive of the Dairibord, before becoming the CEO of the Cold Storage Commission in 1983  then the largest meat organisation in Africa.

In 1987, he was appointed the managing director of the Beira Corridor Group (BCG), a position he held until 1990.

In the new role, Cross was expected to assist Ncube with the much-needed reforms that can take the country out of the current economic doldrums  characterised by sharp price increases and shortages of fuel.

Another source told the Daily News that Ncube appeared not to have learned anything from the Mutumanje debacle  which had left the ministers political nous and decision-making capacity being questioned by his colleagues and senior Zanu PF officials.

When Ncube controversially appointed Mutumanje, there was a furious response from many quarters, including Information ministry officials who said they were the only ones responsible for government communications.

It didnt help matters that Mutumanje went on to make staggering allegations on Facebook, on supposed illegal foreign currency dealings at the central bank  naming four senior RBZ officials and Tagwirei in the process as being at the centre of illegal foreign currency dealings.

This led to the precautionary suspension of the fingered central bank executives by governor John Mangudya.

However, and no sooner had this happened, Mutumanje was reported by the Daily News sister paper, the Daily News on Sunday, claiming that he had been paid $40 000 dollars to smear the RBZ directors  Mirirai Chiremba, Norman Mataruka, Gresham Muradzikwa and Azvinandaa Saburi.

He revealed that he had sold his soul to the devil by accepting the money  which he claimed he needed desperately to send his ailing father for treatment in India.

Mutumanje later made even more startling revelations regarding the hot subject of State capture in the country.

I want to go to Joburg for like a week and disappear from the noise. I dont want to be part of this mess (the State capture saga and his allegations of corruption), however, it ends.

You know, my greatest worry with stopping or quitting or even changing narrative is will I be able to look after myself afterwards? The only reason why these people got me is they knew I was really in a tough corner.

They knew my father wasnt feeling well. My father needed an operation. It was actually almost like they tricked me because inini ndakaenda kuna (I went to)  (name of individual withheld on legal advice) and said aah vakomana (gentlemen), how can you guys leave my father suffering like this?

You people makashanda mese (you worked together) and you are really going to leave him? Then they said no problem, we will look after him. But theres something we want you to do, Mutumanje said in a recorded second message.

But because at the time I wasnt thinking, the only thing that was on my mind was can you look after my father. I made commitments and said yes, I will do it  without knowing what it is.

Mdhara akaenda kunorapwa zvakanaka (my father went for his treatment in India and all went well). I didnt know I had signed my life away, he added.

So, pandakapihwa basa rekunzi enda kuministry of Finance (when I was given the Finance ministry job), in my head I thought I was going to assist the minister of Finance to communicate zvinhu zvekuministry of Finance.

What I didnt know is they already knew the detail. But I didnt know the detail. I knew the position, not the detail, Mutumanje said.

Asked by the person he was recorded talking to whether Ncube was part of the plot, Mutumanje answered in the affirmative, claiming that the former banker had been heavily involved.

Im saying there is nothing that Im saying that is coming from my head. Hapana guess work paya paya, confirming further that he had been paid $40 000 in hard currency for the hatchet job.

It was real desperation. I just lost my mother. So, psychologically the thought of losing a father right after losing a mother is traumatising. So, I panicked and I went to the only place I thought I could get help, he added.

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Related Zimbabwe Latest NewsThe church has also waded into the economic debate with United Family International Church leader Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa weighing into the growing calls for government to consider the option of using the rand as a solution to solving the currency crisis that has become a burden for both business and consumers.

Divergent solutions have been proffered on how government can deal with the current fiscal challenges, including the wider usage of the rand as the functional currency given the already strong connection between Zimbabwe and South Africa in terms of trade and FDI.

UFIC leader Prophet Makandiwa, the latest voice to wade into this debate, this Sunday advised monetary authorities to urgently address the currency distortions that have become an albatross for both business and consumers.

Industry leaders such as the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) and the Bankers Association of Zimbabwe are on record pushing fiscal authorities to adopt the rand as a currency of reference which would ease the pressure on the country as it had become an easy target to access the green back.

According to the industrial bodys past president Mr Busisa Moyo, the rand link presents a strong option for Zimbabwe considering the already strong relationship between the two countries.

The government is currently implementing a number of reforms to revive the economy implemented through a raft of cost cutting measures, but has approached the currency crisis issue with saliency leaving room for arbitrage opportunities.

Despite the growing calls, treasury maintains a lot of issues need to be considered before taking such a route.

The debate on the use of the rand ahead of the US dollar to resolve the countrys currency challenges escalated last year, with arguments centered on the trade statistics where the countrys economic activity is already quoted at 95 percent with Pretoria.

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Related Zimbabwe Latest NewsJerri-Lynn here. The UN Climate Change Conference  COP24- began yesterday, a day early, in Katowice, Poland. Negotiators from 195 countries seek to flesh out details of the 2015 Paris Accord. These are the most significant climate talks to occur since that accord and prospects look bleak  not least as Trump has previously announced that the US intends to withdraw from the agreement (but cannot do so until 2020).

The importance of 2015 agreement has been overstated  too little, too late  in curbing the global emissions that have us hurtling toward climate catastrophe. Theres plenty of blame to go around for why we are where we are  and it dates to well before Trump became President. This post traces warnings about climate change back more than fifty years; effective political or regulatory action has been sorely lacking, in part as a result of a successful disinformation campaign waged by fossil fuels interests.

By David Suzuki, a scientist, broadcaster, author, and co-founder of the David Suzuki Foundation. Written with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Senior Editor Ian Hanington. Learn more at www.davidsuzuki.org. Originally published at DeSmog Blog

In a 1965 speech to members, American Petroleum Institute president Frank Ikard outlined the findings of a report by then-president Lyndon Johnsons Science Advisory Committee, based in part on research the institute conducted in the 1950s.

The substance of the report is that there is still time to save the worlds peoples from the catastrophic consequence of pollution, but time is running out, Ikard said, adding, One of the most important predictions of the report is that carbon dioxide is being added to the earths atmosphere by the burning of coal, oil, and natural gas at such a rate that by the year 2000 the heat balance will be so modified as possibly to cause marked changes in climate beyond local or even national efforts.

Many scientists were reaching similar conclusions, based on a body of evidence that had been growing at least since French mathematician Joseph Fourier described the greenhouse effect in 1824. In the 1950s, Russian climatologist Mikhail Budyko examined how feedback loops amplify human influences on the climate. He published two books, in 1961 and 1962, warning that growing energy use will warm the planet and cause Arctic ice to disappear, creating feedback cycles that would accelerate warming.

The predictions have proven to be accurate, and evidence for human-caused global warming has since become indisputable.

What happened? Over the ensuing decades, the fossil fuel industry didnt try to resolve what it knew would become a crisis. Instead, it worked to downplay and often deny the reality of climate change and to sow doubt and confusion. Knowingly putting humanity  and countless other species  at risk for the sake of profit is an intergenerational crime against humanity, but its unlikely any perpetrators will face justice.

Still, warnings from researchers worldwide started to sink in. In 1988, NASA scientist James Hansen told a U.S.congressional committee, Global warming has reached a level such that we can ascribe with a high degree of confidence a cause and effect relationship between the greenhouse effect and observed warming. It is already happening now.

People in the U.S. and elsewhere started to demand action on climate and other environmental challenges. Political leaders from George H.W. Bush in the U.S. to Margaret Thatcher in the U.K. to Brian Mulroney in Canada started jumping on the green bandwagon  in word if not always in deed.

Had we heeded early warnings and had political representatives done more than talk, we likely could have addressed the problem with minimal societal disruption. But the industry-funded denial machine, which continues today, has been effective. Concern about climate change and other environmental issues has diminished as the problems have intensified. Politicians continue to think in terms of brief election cycles, focusing on short-term gains from exploiting fossil fuels rather than long-term benefits of conserving energy and shifting to cleaner sources.

Meanwhile, greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise and carbon sinks like forests and wetlands are still being destroyed. Even if we stopped using fossil fuels tomorrow, weve emitted so much carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that we wouldnt be able to avert worsening of the consequences already happening. But we still have time  albeit very little  to ensure the problem doesnt become catastrophic. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which is conservative in its estimates, gives us about 12 years to take decisive action.

And yet, some people still deny or downplay the problem, or argue we have to shift slowly, even though they seem reluctant to start what could have been a gradual transition had we started a half-century ago.

Canada, China, and Russia are the worst offenders. A report published in Nature Communications ranked the climate plans of various countries and concluded that if the world followed our climate policies, wed face a catastrophic rise in global average temperature of 5C by the end of the century. The U.S. and Australia werent far behind.

We have to do better. Many people, especially politicians, say we cant shift from fossil fuels overnight. That may be true, but if we dont start, well never get there. With a Canadian federal election less than a year away, its up to us all to ensure every political party makes climate change its highest priority and has a realistic plan to address it.Despite CRISPR baby controversy, Harvard University will begin gene-editing sperm MIT Technology Review

Scientists, ethicists slam decisions behind gene-edited twins Ars Technica

Why this country parcels babies in boxes BBC

Payless Opens Fake Luxury Shoe Shop Where They Trick Influencers By Selling $20 Shoes For $640 Bored Panda

Dont you like it here with me? AI bot makes ominous debut on board the ISS (VIDEO) RT News (The Rev Kev)

12-Year-Old Charged For Distributing Marijuana-Laced Gummies In School, Several Students Hospitalized International Business Times

Root intelligence: Plants can think, feel and learn New Scientist (David L)

Anchorage earthquake was a big one, but it could have been much worse. Why L.A. should take warning LA Times

Waste Watch

Naomi Klein on the Urgency of a Green New Deal for Everyone Truthdig

Shell yields to investors by setting target on carbon footprint FT

Polands Coal Habit Draws New Fire as UN Climate Talks Begin Climate Liability News

The climate diaspora trying to save the Paris agreement from Trump Guardian

Graduate School Can Have Terrible Effects on Peoples Mental Health Atlantic (UserFriendly)

A Billionaire Backer and the Murky Finances of the AfDDer Spiegel

Brexit

Syraqistan

India

China

Japan

Facebook Fracas

Mark Zuckerberg Has Lost Control of Facebook Project Syndicate

Realignment and Legitimacy

BREAKINGas in breaking democracy: a truly shocking & naked power grab underway in Wisconsin. Dems won every statewide race this Nov. Now, the GOP unveiled sweeping bills to straightjacket the Gov & AG, stomp on early voting, & lock in power on state Sup Court. Votes THIS TUE. 1/  Ben Wikler (@benwikler) 1 December 2018

More than 5,500 women came to Illinois to have an abortion last year amid growing restrictions in the Midwest Chicago Tribune

Class Warfare

Trump Transition

Antidote du jour:

See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here.Nature has manufactured the perfect machines. Only the fastest, toughest, and most cunning creatures have endured. We examine how animals have evolved and how we can benefit from their evolution.

Sundays from 8:30pm AEDT.NATO Foreign Ministers are meeting this week to address a wide range of security challenges, including Russias destabilising behaviour, violent extremism in the Middle East and North Africa and continuing instability in Afghanistan.

On Tuesday (4 December 2018), Allies will meet with two of NATOs closest partners, Georgia and Ukraine. They both face serious security challenges from Russia, and we will continue to give both countries practical and political support, said NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. In view of Russias use of military force against Ukraine near the Sea of Azov, NATO Allies have called on Russia to release the Ukrainian sailors and ships it seized, and to allow freedom of navigation and unhindered access to Ukrainian ports.

NATO Foreign Ministers will also discuss the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty. This Treaty eliminated an entire category of weapons, but it has been put in jeopardy by Russia, said the Secretary General. He noted that Russia has developed, produced and deployed a new missile, which could reach European cities with little or no warning. Mr. Stoltenberg added that the United States is in full compliance with the INF Treaty. There are no new US missiles in Europe, but there are new Russian missiles, he said.

Ministers will hold a separate session on challenges coming from the Middle East and North Africa. They are expected to discuss NATOs support to partners in the region. We will discuss Iraq, where we are helping train local forces, and our experts are helping set up defence education facilities, said the Secretary General.

On Wednesday (5 December), NATO Foreign Ministers will hold a meeting on the Western Balkans, joined by European Union High Representative Federica Mogherini. They will discuss Skopjes progress towards NATO membership and the next steps in developing the Alliances relationship with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ministers are expected to endorse NATOs readiness to accept Bosnias first Annual National Programme. This is an important tool, which can help the country implement political, economic and defence reforms, said Mr. Stoltenberg.

The Ministerial will conclude with a meeting of all nations contributing to the Resolute Support training mission in Afghanistan. We must continue to ensure that the country never again becomes a safe haven for international terrorists, said the Secretary General. He noted that NATO has stepped up its support to Afghanistan, with more forces and funding.The Heads of Allied Civil and Military, Intelligence and Security Organizations met at NATO Headquarters in Brussels on 29 November 2018 for talks on countering disinformation, cyber-attacks and traditional means of espionage. The conference was opened by Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, together with the Romanian Chair of NATOs Civilian Intelligence Committee and the Canadian Chair of the Military Intelligence Committee. The Allied Intelligence officials endorsed the framework for the establishment of a NATO Intelligence Academy, and they discussed together with Partner services and the European Union about emerging technologies that have an impact on intelligence and also about NATO  EU cooperation.

High quality intelligence and analysis are vital to the security of the Alliance, NATOs Assistant Secretary General for Intelligence and Security, Arndt Freytag von Loringhoven, said after the meeting. Today, we face challenges from a much more assertive Russia as well as from terrorism and instability in the Middle East. The role of the Intelligence Community is to assess those challenges and provide the best information and recommendations to the NATOs North Atlantic Council. Ambassador Loringhoven cited well documented attempts to manipulate elections, hack the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, and spark a coup in Montenegro as recent examples of hybrid attacks.

Due to the deteriorating security environment after 2014, NATO has created a new Intelligence Division to better understand the threats to our security. The division does not collect its own intelligence, but assesses information provided by allied services.(Natural News) People who are looking for natural alternatives to synthetic insecticides need not look any further than a gas found in the atmosphere. In a recent study, researchers from the Universidad Centroccidental Lisandro Alvarado in Venezuela suggest using ozone, a naturally occurring gas in the stratosphere, to get rid of insect pests. Their findings, which appeared in the journal Idesia (Arica), looked at whether ozone was effective when used against the cigarette beetle, a particularly damaging insect pest in many agricultural crops, including tobacco, flour, chocolate, breakfast cereals, and animal foods.

Scientists have long considered the potential of ozone in agriculture. In an article for The Global Scientists, Nahed Msayled of Iowa State University identified the compounds ability to protect against microbes, including pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi, thanks to its oxidizing properties. Ozone is a common ingredient in disinfectants, such as that used in both drinking water and wastewater. In agriculture, the gas is used to inhibit the growth of mold in corn during storage and prevent the activation of pathogens and spoilage after harvesting fruits and vegetables.

Ozone has a short half-life, quickly decomposing into oxygen, which makes it an environment-friendly alternative to synthetic pesticides which adversely impact the environment with their residual toxins and persistent pollutants.

A separate study by Aarhus University Danish Centre for Food and Agriculture proffered similar results. In their study, they found that a low concentration of ozone was as effective as conventional pesticides in controlling the pests. They also revealed that ozone can even affect different development stages of the insect  something that commercial pesticides cannot do. This was true for insects such as grain weevils, lesser grain borers, flour beetles, and several species of moth  all of which are known to cause great damage to stored food products.

The damage caused by pests isnt a trivial matter. Industrialized countries lose up to 9 percent of their stored grain because of these pests. However, developing countries have it worse  losing up to 20 percent of their stored grain. This, in turn, can drive prices up in the market.

For this study, researchers used two metallic silos (a place where they hold grains). One silo was filled with maize, while the other one was empty. The team then placed cigarette beetles in each of the silos and treated both areas with ozone. In addition, the silos were treated in 15-minute intervals after the beetles were introduced. The team replicated the experiment five times, after which the resulting data was interpreted.

Based on the results, ozone exhibited a significant insecticidal effect, as observed in the mortality rates of the beetles after exposure. The beetles in the empty silo were the most affected, with over half of the sample insects dying after exposure. The team found the same result with exposure time and interaction: More beetles died after being exposed to ozone or after interacting with the compound, over time.

For the researchers, this means that ozone has the potential to be used as a natural insecticide to manage pests in grains and stored food. (Related: New, all-natural pesticide unveiled by scientists  and it wont kill the bees!)

Learn more about natural pesticides for your crops at Harvest.news.

Sources include:

Science.news

TheGlobalScientist.com

DCA.AU.ukWhat to Know The shooting began about 11:15 p.m. at the Borderline Bar & Grill.

Twelve victims were killed, including a Ventura County Sheriff's sergeant. The gunman also died.

An emergency information hotline was set up for the #BorderLineShooting at 805-465-6650.

At least 13 people are dead, including a sheriff's sergeant and the gunman, after a shooting during college night at a bar late Wednesday night in Thousand Oaks, California, authorities said.

The Borderline Bar & Grill shooting is the deadliest such attack since 17 people were killed at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, in February. It's also the second mass shooting in less than two weeks. On Oct. 27, a man opened fire at a Pittsburgh synagogue, killing 11 people.

[NATL-LA] Borderline Bar Shooting: College Night Party Turns to Terror in Thousand Oaks

And Wednesday's shooting comes two days after the one-year anniversary of the deadliest church shooting in U.S. history, a massacre in Sutherland Springs, Texas, that left 25 dead.

Mass Shootings in the U.S.

Single attacks in a public place in which four or more victims were killed. The data does not include shootings stemming from crimes such as robberies and gang violence. More on the data source.

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Below, find more information on the deadliest mass shooting incidents in the United States this year.

October  Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting

A prayer service was underway at the Tree of Life synagogue on the morning of Saturday, Oct. 27, when a man with an assault rifle opened fire, killing 11 people throughout the house of worship and injuring four police officers before he was taken into custody. It was the deadliest attack on Jews in U.S. history and authorities said the gunman ranted about the religion during the shooting.

The accused gunman pleaded not guilty to dozens of federal charges including murder and hate crimes and remains in jail.

[NATL] PHOTOS: Pittsburgh Reels After Shooting at Tree of Life Synagogue Leaves 11 Dead

September  Bakersfield Rampage

Over nearly 40 minutes on Sept. 12, a man in Bakersfield, California, fatally shot five people in several locations, including his ex-wife, before killing himself when a deputy had chased him down. The victims appeared to be targeted and included a man and his adult daughter.

Investigators said a divorce may have motivated the gunman.

May  Texas High School Shooting

A student at Santa Fe High School, southeast of Houston, opened fire on fellow students and staff with a shotgun and revolver on the morning of Friday, May 18, killing 10 people and wounding over a dozen more.

Authorities have said the student confessed to the rampage and was indicted on charges that include capital murder.

February  Parkland High School Massacre

A 19-year-old former student of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, killed 17 students and staff members and wounded 17 more with a semi-automatic rifle on Valentine's Day before being taken into custody about a mile away, authorities said.

It was the worst school shooting since 2012 and prompted a nationwide gun control movement led by Stoneman Douglas students. The accused gunman remains in jail on 17 charges of murder and 17 more of attempted murder.

[NATL] Grieving Community Gathers to Remember Stoneman Douglas School Shooting VictimsTwo restaurant patrons were taken to a hospital Sunday afternoon after a vehicle collided into a Panda Express in the 4800 block of San Felipe Road in San Jose.

The injuries were not considered life threatening, but the injured people were taken to a hospital to be checked out, police said. The customers were sitting near a window at the front of the restaurant.

The collision occurred shortly after noon. Danny Frias, who manages the pizza shop next door heard the crash and came running.

"We just heard a loud noise; I didnt know what it was," he said. "Once I realized there was a car in there...then I was kind of scared. Everybody was walking around...everybody was moving ... then we helped the lady out of the car."

Witnesses said the driver thought the vehicle was in reverse when she accelerated. Then she panicked and hit the accelerator more, thinking it was the brake.

The restaurant stayed open while crews cleaned up broken glass and debris and shored up a damaged wall.With hugs, teachers and a touch of anxiety, thousands of children returned to school and some semblance of routine Monday, three weeks after Northern California's deadly wildfire destroyed their homes and classrooms.

Schools in Butte County have been closed since Nov. 8, when the blaze swept through the towns of Paradise, Concow and Magalia in the nation's deadliest wildfire in a century. At least 88 people were killed and dozens remain unaccounted for.

About 31,000 students in all went back to school. Many of them are going to class in other buildings because their schools were damaged or destroyed, or are inaccessible inside evacuation zones.

Some families have left the state. Others are staying with friends or relatives, too far from the fire-stricken area to drive in every day.

But nearly all the teachers are returning to provide a familiar and comfortable face to the children who are able to make it to class.

"It's important that the kids are able to stay together and have some sort of normalcy in the crazy devastation that we're having now," said Jodi Seaholm, whose daughter Mallory is a third-grader.

Mallory underwent radiation in October to treat a recurrence of brain cancer and showed no fear, Seaholm said, but "this situation with her house burning down has absolutely devastated her."

Counselors brought in from around the country were in nearly every classroom Monday to help children who were distressed by their escape through a burning town and the loss of their homes, Paradise Superintendent Michelle John said at a celebratory news conference. Many of the teachers lost their homes as well.

"Our kids are traumatized," John said. "Their families are traumatized."

Two neighboring school districts have allowed children from Paradise to take over available space. Kids who previously went to Paradise Elementary are going to school in Oroville, while children from Ponderosa Elementary are going to a school in Durham.

Most of Paradise High School survived but is inaccessible.

The district doesn't have space yet for intermediate and high school classrooms, so for the 13 days before the holiday break begins, those students will learn through independent study. They will have access to online assignments and a drop-in center at the Chico mall where they can get help from teachers or see classmates.

But schoolwork will probably be secondary to dealing with trauma and reconnecting with friends, said Paradise High Principal Loren Lighthall.

"They don't have their church, they don't have their school, they don't have their work, they don't have their friends. They don't have any of that stuff and we're asking them to write five-paragraph essays?" Lighthall said. "It's just unreasonable at this point. We're going to do it, but we're going to be super flexible with what we require."

Marissa Nypl is living with her family at her husband's coworker's home in West Sacramento, which is 90 miles from her 10-year-old daughter's temporary school in Durham, until they can move into a rental home much closer.

It's too far to drive every day, but Nypl wanted to be sure her daughter was there to be with her peers on the first day back.

"The school's going to be the only thing they have to latch on to to feel like something's still routine," she said.A residential fire in San Francisco displaced nine people Sunday afternoon, according to the fire department.

Fire crews responded to the blaze at 1427 Larkin St. in the city's Nob Hill neighborhood about 4:15 p.m. and had the flames contained by about 4:35 p.m., fire officials said.

Red Cross Bay Area was at the scene to assist the displaced. A pet cat died in the fire, officials said.

The blaze is under investigation.Three small fires that ignited in San Francisco's Marina District early Monday morning were intentionally set, according to the city's fire department.

The blazes broke out between roughly 1 a.m. and 2:30 a.m., according to the fire department.

The fires are under investigation.

Further information was not immediately available.What to Know Eleven Pittsburgh police officers who responded to the deadly shooting at a synagogue will light a menorah on Long Island Sunday evening

The menorah lighting at Chabad of Roslyn, in Roslyn Heights on Long Island, will commemorate the 11 people killed during the Oct. 27 attack

Traditional Hanukkah treats will be served at the event, which will take place at 5:30 p.m. at Chabad of Roslyn

Eleven police officers who responded to the deadly synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh lit a menorah on Long Island on Sunday evening in memory of the victims.

The menorah lighting at Chabad of Roslyn, in Roslyn Heights on Long Island, commemorated the 11 people killed in the Oct. 27 attack at Tree of Life Congregation.

Also Sunday, the Columbia professor whose office was vandalized with swastikas and anti-Semitic slurs last week lit the school's menorah.

Elizabeth Midlarsky lit the menorah in an act of defiance against anti-Semitism, the school said. A large crowd attended as a sign of unity.

On Long Island, the lighting was a show of solidarity with the Pittsburgh community and a display of Jewish pride in the face of rising anti-Semitism, Chabad of Roslyn said in a release.

The light of the menorah reminds us that when the forces of light and good encounter darkness and hate, without fail light will always prevail, Chabad of Roslyns director, Rabbi Aaron Konikov, said in a statement.

If one hate-filled person created such darkness and pain, imagine the impact of so many more people united in doing good, he added.

Rabbi Konikov is close friends with a rabbi at the Chabad of Pittsburgh who worked with responders after the massacre, he told NBC 4 New York.

That rabbi helped organize the event at the Chabad of Roslyn, Rabbi Konikov explained.

The menorah is the tallest one on Long Island and one of the tallest permanent menorahs in the world, Rabbi Konikov said.What to Know Carla Stefaniak was scheduled to return home last Wednesday, but has not been heard from since speaking with her family late Tuesday night.

A body has been found on the property in Costa Rica where a missing South Florida woman had been staying during a birthday trip to the Central American country, authorities said Monday.

Officials with Costa Rica's Judicial Investigation Department said the body was discovered behind the Airbnb property where Carla Stefaniak had been staying in the the San Jose neighborhood of San Antonio de Escazu.

Walter Espinoza, a spokesman for the agency, said during a press conference Monday that canine search dogs found the decomposing body half-buried and covered with plastic bags in a wooded area. Espinoza said officials haven't confirmed the identity of the remains but noted it was of a woman.

Autopsy results are expect to be released Tuesday, officials said.

Espinoza also said authorities found stains in Stefaniak's Airbnb, Villa Buena Vista, that were "compatible with blood," though further testing was being conducted.

Stefaniak has been missing for more than a week after traveling to Costa Rica with her sister-in-law April Antonieta. Her sister-in-law returned to the United States last Tuesday, a day before the 36-year-old was expected to board a flight back to the U.S.

Her family said they last heard from her around 8 p.m. on Nov. 27. She didn't show up for her 1 p.m. flight home on Nov. 28.

Stefaniaks brother, Mario Caicedo, drove from Orlando to Miami to speak with FBI agents on the case while other family members have flown to Costa Rica to help in the search.

Mario Caicedo told NBC 6 sister station Telemundo 51 that investigators in Costa Rica believe Stefaniak was kidnapped because she checked in for her flight but never boarded. FBI officials have not confirmed that information.

On Monday, Stefaniak's father, Carlos Caicedo, told reporters outside a Florida U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office that he also believed Stefaniak had been kidnapped.

"I am convinced that she is kidnapped," he said. "I'm sure that they must have already been made contact to ask for ransom or some thing of that type."

Caicedo petitioned the agency to allow him to travel to Costa Rica because of his immigration status, according to Telemundo 51. ICE authorized his request, the station reported. The status of Caicedo's immigration standing was not immediately clear.

Stefaniak, who last posted on her social media page Monday, was staying in San Jose at the time, at the Airbnb Villa Buena Vista.Former President George H.W. Bush teamed up with the man who ousted him from the White House to help victims of natural disasters. He created a program that has honored thousands of American volunteers. He also sent U.S. troops to Africa to help starving Somalis.

It was all part of Bush's vision for creating what he called a "kinder, gentler nation." Here's a look at some of the better known volunteer and humanitarian work credited to Bush, who died late Friday at age 94:

VOLUNTEERISM

Bush evoked the vision of a "thousand points of light" during his 1989 inaugural address, inviting the nation to take action through public service, and established the Daily Point of Light Award the next year. He formally recognized more than 1,000 volunteers during his administration, from Jesse Sanchez Berain, an Idaho man who helped migrant workers and their children, to Doris Tate, who advocated for victims' rights after her daughter, actress Sharon Tate, was killed.

During a White House ceremony Bush attended in 2013 to bestow the 5,000th award, then-President Barack Obama credited Bush with expanding a commitment to service in America. "Your love of service has kindled a similar love in the hearts of millions here at home and around the world," Obama said. "And, frankly, just the fact that you're such a gentleman and such a good and kind person I think helps to reinforce that spirit of service."

CHARITABLE WORK

As he accepted his party's nomination for president in 1988, Bush said he was guided by certain traditions: "One is that there is a God and He is good, and His love, while free, has a self-imposed cost: We must be good to one another."

After leaving office, Bush teamed up with former President Bill Clinton, who defeated Bush for his second term in the White House, to raise money for victims of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. They also worked together on fundraising after Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and Hurricane Ike in 2008. And in 2017, Bush and four other living former presidents appeared together at a concert to raise money following hurricanes in Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands.

Bush and his wife Barbara, who died in April, devoted much of their work to promoting cancer research  their daughter Robin died at age 3 of leukemia  and they were life members of the MD Anderson Cancer Center Board of Visitors. A family spokesman said the couple made "substantial" personal gifts to a dozen organizations including medical centers, but that they didn't want to publicly reveal the amounts.

HELPING THOSE WITH DISABILITIES

Bush signed the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act, which bans workplace discrimination of people with disabilities and requires improved access to public places and transportation. The law was a special point of pride for Bush, said Mark Updegrove, who wrote several books on the American presidency.

"He was very proud of the fact that it liberated so many people who we didn't give much thought to  not knowing the obstacles they faced on a daily basis," said Updegrove, president of the Lyndon B. Johnson Foundation.

WORLD AFFAIRS

The Berlin Wall came down as Bush's first year in office came to a close, followed two years later by the Soviet Union's collapse. Bush's steady diplomatic hand helped ensure a peaceful end to the Cold War and he avoided any great "rhetorical flourish" about the U.S. prevailing because he didn't want to compromise the leadership of then-Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev and others, Updegrove said.

"My life has been lived in the shadow of war  I almost lost my life in one. I hate war. I love peace," Bush said in 1988.

When Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1990, Bush started building an international military coalition that included other Arab states. And in his final weeks as president, he sent U.S. troops to Somalia to help pacify warring clans and protect overland shipments of food to starving Somalis, saying: "These are humanitarian concerns, and in my view it is proper that the president show this concern to the people over there."

PUBLIC SERVICE

Bush was a teenager when he began his public service career. The son of a U.S. senator, Bush was one of the Navy's youngest pilots during World War II. He flew 58 missions off the USS San Jacinto and was shot down over the Pacific. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross for bravery.

He was elected to Congress in 1966, and served two terms as a Texas congressman. He later served as ambassador to the United Nations and later to China. He was chairman of the Republican National Committee through the worst of the Watergate scandal, and he served as CIA director and vice president before being elected president.

Calling the 41st president's life "a testament that public service is a noble calling," Obama in 2011 awarded Bush the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor for contributions to society.Two people are dead and at least 11 others have been wounded in shootings across the city of Chicago on Sunday.

Four of the shootings occurred within 30 minutes of one another in different parts of the city. In the first shooting, two men were standing on the street in the 6400 block of South Bell at approximately 2:38 a.m. when a person in a light-colored SUV opened fire, striking both men.

A 40-year-old man was shot in the head, and was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead. A 38-year-old man was also shot in the leg, and was listed in stable condition at the same hospital.

Just six minutes later, another individual was shot in another part of the city. A 32-year-old man was discovered by police lying on a sidewalk in the 2500 block of West 79th Street with a gunshot wound to his chest.

The man was taken to Christ Medical Center in critical condition, according to police.

Just before 3 a.m., another man was left in critical condition after he was shot in the abdomen in the 2200 block of North Keeler, according to police.

The man, a 25-year-old, was standing on a sidewalk when a person in a black sedan fired shots at him. No suspect is in custody.

In another shooting just before 3 a.m., a 32-year-old man was sitting in a parked car in the 5900 block of South Elizabeth when a person on foot approached and fired shots. The man was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Here are the rest of Sundays shootings:Coroners have identified the final two people killed when a small Chicago-bound jet crashed shortly after taking off from a southern Indiana airport.

The Clark County coroner's office said Saturday that the Friday crash killed the pilot, 32-year-old Andrew Davis of Sellersburg, Indiana, and 54-year-old passenger Sandra Holland Johnson of Shreveport, Louisiana.

Authorities had previously identified the third person killed as 63-year-old Wayne Estopinal from Louisville, Kentucky. He was an architect and a board member of Ball State University.

A cause for the crash hasn't been determined.

Police update on a plane crash in Indiana after a private jet headed for Midway Airport went down in a wooded area, leaving no survivors.

The Federal Aviation Administration says flight plans indicate only three people were on the small plane when it left Clark Regional Airport late Friday morning en route to Chicago's Midway Airport.

The National Transportation Safety Board identified the aircraft as a Cessna Citation.A 19-year-old Indiana soldier will serve as one of the Honor Guards during former President George H.W. Bushs funeral services this week.

Bolbi Amptmeyer, grew up in St. John and is a private in the U.S. Army serving in the Honor Guard unit which performs ceremonial duties while soldiers are buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

Amptmeyer told the Times of Northwest Indiana that he heard pounding on his barracks door at Fort Meyer Saturday morning and was told he would be working through the weekend with his unit to get ready for Bushs funeral services.

Bush, the 41st president of the United States, died Friday at the age of 94. Amptmeyers unit was also involved in former President Ronald Reagans funeral services in 2004.

"It's a once-in-a-lifetime thing," Amptmeyer told the newspaper. "My unit last did it 14 years ago. It's crazy to think I was just in high school last year and will lay to rest an ex-president. This is something not many people get to do."

Amptmeyer heard from a representative of the U.S. Army Old Guard while he was going through basic training about serving in the Honor Guard. He applied for a position in the prestigious unit and was accepted due to his high scores in physical training and military testing: Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery scores.

Hes laid to rest about 60 soldiers and veterans working as an escort, he told the Times.

"It's humbling to honor those who died or served their country," he told the paper. "It's amazing, day in and day out."

He marched Monday with other units from the Marines, Airforce and Navy where Bush will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol under guard until Wednesday morning. Amptmeyer and his comrades will then march with the former presidents casket before it is flown to Texas where he will finally be buried next to his wife Barbara Bush who died in April at the age of 92.

Amptmeyer told the newspaper he and his unit have been preparing for the somber duty all weekend.

"For an ex-president, I want to make sure it will be the best uniform I've ever had," he told the Times. "I've been steaming out any wrinkles, making sure the brass is all shiny. Everybody's a little stressed. We need to be presentable. There are a lot of newer guys in my company, and now we're going to be the escort element in a state funeral, marching in front of the Capitol Building."

His mother, his grandparents and other family members said they will watch for Amptmeyer as he marches Monday.

"I'll probably find him right away," Kristie Hussey, his mother, told the Times. "We're beyond excited. I'm just so proud of him."Residents in central Illinois on Sunday assessed the damage after rare December tornadoes, including one the day before that was a half-mile-wide, ripped roofs off homes, downed power lines and injured at least 20 people.

The severe weather in Illinois was part of a line of thunderstorms that raked areas of the central U.S. late Friday and into Saturday, killing one person in Missouri. The National Weather Service confirmed tornadoes in Illinois, Missouri and Oklahoma.

At least three tornadoes were confirmed in northwest and southwest Arkansas, which largely caused property and structural damage. No injuries or fatalities were reported.

Peak months for tornadoes in much of the Midwest are April and June, according to the weather service. But at least 12 tornadoes were reported in Illinois on Saturday, including one in Taylorville which has been confirmed. If the majority are confirmed, that would be the most tornadoes in Illinois in a December storm since Dec. 18-19, 1957, when there were 21.

The weather service sent crews Sunday to survey the hardest-hit areas in Illinois, which included Taylorville, 25 miles (40 kilometers) southeast of Springfield.

Photographs and video from Taylorville showed several houses flattened, with residents wading into debris to salvage what they could. Some homes remained standing but with gaping holes in the roofs or with no roofs at all.

The tornado was on the ground for around 10 miles (16 kilometers) before it thundered through Taylorville, and the weather service was able to warn residents of its arrival 41 minutes before it actually struck, Chris Miller, a meteorologist at the service's Lincoln office, said in a phone interview Sunday. That advanced warning gave people critical time to take cover and may have saved lives.

Assistant Fire Chief Andy Goodall, speaking to reporters Saturday night shortly after the storm pounded the city of 11,000, said at least 100 homes had major damage, including his own, Springfield's State Journal-Register reported.

A Taylorville Memorial Hospital spokesman said 21 people, from age 9 to 97, arrived for treatment Saturday. Most were released within hours. Miller said three people remained hospitalized as of Sunday afternoon.

Miller said preliminary estimates are that the Taylorville tornado may have been an EF2, which indicates wind speeds as high as 135 mph. It could take several more days to know for sure.

The weather service said Sunday that a strong tornado that developed from severe thunderstorms Friday night touched down in Van Buren, Arkansas. It was rated an EF2. About 10 minutes later, a second weaker tornado was confirmed less than 10 miles (16 kilometers) away near the town of Rudy, Arkansas.

Damage surveys for the two tornadoes are ongoing but officials said dozens of homes were damaged.

Early Saturday morning a third tornado with estimated peak winds of 107 mph traveled about 8.5 miles (13.5 kilometers) through Spring Hill in southwest Arkansas. Its path was intermittent and mostly caused damage to trees and to some structures.Indeed, the human resources company that runs the job search website, is expanding in Connecticut, according to the governors office.

Gov. Dannel Malloy said the company is planning to add 500 workers in Stamford, which will bring the total number of people the company employs in Connecticut to 1,700.

This is a global, innovative company that has recognized the benefits that Connecticut brings to the tech industry. We welcome the companys capital investment in our state and the growth of hundreds of high-quality jobs that will follow, Malloy said in a statement.

We continue to invest in Connecticut because this region has helped us deliver on our mission of helping people get jobs since we started here 14 years ago, Dave ONeill, Indeeds Chief Operating Officer, said in a statement. While we have expanded all over the world since our founding, Stamford continues to be a critical region for our success and we are confident we will continue to find the talent we need to help our business continue its growth.Massachusetts State Police say they have arrested the driver of a car in connection with a school bus crash investigation after determining that she was under the influence of alcohol.

Authorities identified the driver as Christy Gilpatrick, 27, of Warren, Rhode Island. They say this is the second time she has been charged with an OUI.

State police responded Saturday night to a school bus crash with injuries on Route 24 southbound after receiving multiple 911 calls about a serious crash. The accident was south of exit 11 in Berkley.

The crash is still under investigation and police have not yet determined whether Gilpatrick caused the crash.

Father Ted Brown of the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette in Attleboro, Massachusetts says the bus left from there.

"It kind of just takes the air out of you," he said. We had a big concert here that about 1,000 people came to."

Thousands of people visit the shrine every year to see the holiday lights.

"Sadness. Great, great sadness," Brown said. "I'm concerned for all the people who were injured, and I know it varies from minor injuries to some serious injuries."

As authorities continue to review and investigate the crash, they issued an update on Sunday evening.

State police said more victims than initially thought suffered serious injuries, including multiple fractures. Upon further review, they found that several people, including some children, suffered serious injuries.

One child with serious injuries was transported from Rhode Island Hospital to a Boston hospital for additional treatment.

Many victims remain hospitalized, the statement said.

State police said total number of people on the bus has been updated from 25 initially to 23 adults and children; however, fire officials in Berkley said a total of 30 people were taken to five hospitals in two states.

The bus was owned by First Student, Inc., a bus company in Tiverton, Rhode Island. The bus passengers were First Student employees and their families and friends who went on a company trip.

"I would just like to thank all of the mutual aid departments as well as municipal and state police. Last evening was a total team effort," Fournier said in a statement on Sunday. "It is the kind of situation we train for and sit in workshops and prepare for, but you really come to appreciate the value of all that planning when see it unfold before you."

According to State Police, people ranging in age from adult to young children were on the bus. The bus went off the road off the right shoulder and into the woods. It did not roll over.

All occupants are accounted for and no other transports are believed to be serious injuries, police said. They were transported with minor injuries or for precautionary reasons.

According to state police, the bus contained parents and children who were returning to Tiverton.

Gilpatrick was charged with OUI alcohol second offense, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, and marked lanes violation.

She will appear in court on Monday. Its unclear if she has an attorney.

The investigation is ongoing.The American people aren't the only ones mourning the loss of former President George H.W. Bush.

Sunday night, Bush family spokesman Jim McGrath tweeted a photo of Bush's service dog, Sully, lying in front of the 41st president's flag-draped casket with the caption "Mission complete."

Bush received the 2-year-old yellow Labrador retriever in June from America's VetDogs, a nonprofit organization that helps match service dogs with veterans, active-duty service members and first responders with disabilities. The president had a form of Parkinson's disease, and Sully could open doors, pick up items and summon help.

Sully even accompanied Bush to the polls when he voted in the November midterm election.

Jim McGrath

Now, Sully will go back to America's VetDogs in New York where he will stay through the holidays before joinging the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center's Facility Dog Program in Bethesda, Maryland.

The four-legged companion will work with other dogs to help with physical and occupational therapy for wounded soldiers and active duty personnel at the hospital.

The president and CEO of America's VetDogs, John Miller, issued a statement on the death of President George H.W. Bush.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Bush family during this difficult time. It was truly an honor to have provided service dog Sully to be by the presidents side for the past several months. As a true patriot and a visionary, President Bush will forever be viewed by people with disabilities and their families as a hero through his efforts to enact the Americans with Disabilities Act. We are forever grateful to his service to the American people."A Fort Worth church suffered a devastating loss Sunday morning.

Two beloved members were killed on their way to service.

The victims are Thomas and Lorena Jordan, according to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office and Grace Lutheran Church.

The two died at a busy intersection just feet from their church in South Fort Worth.

Nearby neighbors told NBC 5 they are growing more and more concerned with the intersection because there was another fatality in the same spot just over a month ago.

As the sun set in Fort Worth Sunday evening, some still couldn't shake the tragic day.

"I was very sad and very scary," Babar Zaheer said.

He said he drove by the crash site hours ago and was so shocked by the mangled wreckage he and his wife had to return.

"I was not expecting this kind of accident," he said. "Freeway I can imagine, but this is a residential area."

According to the Fort Worth Police Department, a car was T-boned by another car at the intersection of McCart Avenue and Columbus Trail at about 9:33 a.m.

"We learned this morning that we lost two pillars of our community; people that we love very much," Reverend Don Strickland said.

Strickland said the two people killed were on their way to service at Grace Lutheran Church.

The two were going to join other family members who were already inside.

Exact details as to what happened are still being investigated, but police said the victims were hit by another car.

Neighbors said tragic endings like this are not uncommon in this intersection.

"We're at Columbus and McCart. This is the second one," said neighbor Linda Hudson.

In late October, a 22-year-old man was killed when street racers caused a crash at the same intersection, according to police.

A memorial still stands at the intersection for Keenan Hilsabeck.

"[Drivers] speed past you so much," Hudson said. "Something has to be done."

Other residents shared Hudson's concerns.

"We should have installed the cameras, we should have put the warning signs or flashing lights," Zaheer said.

A community is demanding action as a family and a congregation mourn two lives lost.

"They were such an important part of this community," said the victims' reverend. "We're really going to miss them."

Fort Worth police said the driver of the other car was taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

It is not known at this time if any charges would be filed, according to police.

Grace Lutheran Church announced late Sunday evening that it would hold a public candlelight vigil for Thomas and Lorena Jordan.

It will be held Monday at 7 p.m. at the church.Uncertainty over closures at the U.S.-Mexico Border south of San Diego has taken its toll on tourism to the southern side according to one business owner as Customs and Border Protection reinforces security procedures due to a group of migrants in Tijuana.

Last Sunday, CBP shut down the border for five hours after hundreds of Central American migrants awaiting asylum proceedings attempted to rush the border during a protest on Mexico's side. The closure resulted in more than $5.3 million in losses for businesses near the border.

More than a week later, businesses that rely on tourism to Baja California are still feeling the effects of the border shut down.

West Barbas livelihood is dependent on the border. He runs Baja Border Tours, which takes tourists from San Diego on sight-seeing trips to Baja California, including Tijuana, Rosarito and Puerto Nuevo.

Barba said he usually takes 10 to 12 people across the border for wine and ocean tours but tourists began cancelling their trips after last week's border shut down and uncertainties that it could happen again.

"I had a lot of reservations already but people started canceling," he said. "They started calling to tell me, 'Whats happening at the border, we dont want to go.'"

Images of long lines getting back into the United States after the closure scared his customers. He showed NBC 7 his booking calendar and they are filled with cancellations. He is getting worried.

"I have a lot of bills," he said. "Its December, I was expecting a lot of customers for this season."

The winter season is one the busiest seasons for him, Barba said. Now, there are days when he said he has two or less customers scheduled on his tour. Sometimes, he has no one.

"Anywhere from November, December and January just work, work, work," he said. "And its just not busy this year."

Barba doesnt blame the migrants for his lost businesses. He sympathizes with them. Originally from Colombia, he left for a better life in the U.S. and said he hopes the migrants follow proper asylum procedure.

"I came to this country with $22 in my pocket and the United States is good to me," he said.Authorities are lifting evacuation orders for some Northern California communities ravaged by the state's deadliest wildfire but said no traffic will be allowed into the town of Paradise, which was the most devastated community in last month's blaze.

The Butte County Sheriff's office on Sunday said residents of neighborhoods in nearby Magalia were allowed into the area at noon Sunday, and public access would resume 24 hours later.

But the communities may have very limited services, and authorities urged residents to ensure they have food, water and fuel for their vehicles before returning. They also advised residents not to use electric generators because of potential back feeding of current and that fire and utility crews were still working in the area.

[NATL-BAY]PHOTOS: Wildfire Ravages Butte County, Leaving Dozens Dead

The office said late Saturday that the number of people listed missing since the wildfire has dropped to 25. That's about half the people reported missing a day earlier and a fraction of the 1,300 unaccounted for about two weeks ago.

Authorities have been working to account for survivors since thousands of people were forced to flee the devastating Nov. 8 fire that killed 88 people. The blaze all but leveled the town of Paradise and charred nearby communities.

Thousands were forced to flee, and many survivors later scattered to other towns or cities and did not think to tell authorities or relatives that they were safe. Anyone who can't be reached by a friend or relative is put on the county's list until they are tracked down by authorities.

Meanwhile, schools in Butte County were set to welcome back students on Monday. County Superintendent Tim Taylor along with several school dignitaries and public officials will be on hand for a 9:30 a.m. news conference at the Butte County Office of Education, 1859 Bird St. in Oroville.

About 5,000 students were displaced by the fire. In Paradise, three elementary schools will be welcoming all K-5 students while middle and high school students will be taught with online programs for now until a new site can be set up next month. Those students will be able to check in with teachers at drop-in centers at Chico Mall.

For detailed information on lifted evacuations, go to the re-entry website.At least 670 structures were destroyed inside the Malibu city limits in last month's Woolsey fire, including more than 400 single-family homes with an estimated market value of at least $1.6 billion, it was reported Monday morning.

The Los Angeles Times reported that the estimates are based on an analysis of aerial imagery and property records conducted by The Times and Zillow, the real estate website.

Los Angeles County emergency officials and state fire investigators haven't released an official damage assessment of structures in Malibu. The Times identified destroyed buildings using property data and post-fire aerial footage released by Vexcel Imaging, a company that mounts cameras to fixed-wing airplanes and flies over areas after natural disasters.

The damage documented by The Times is just a portion of the almost 97,000 acres burned by the Woolsey fire, which destroyed a total of 1,500 structures in Los Angeles and Ventura counties and killed three people, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

That makes the Woolsey fire one of the most destructive wildfires in state history, and the number of homes lost in Malibu is expected to surpass the totals recorded in devastating blazes there in 1993, 1982, 1978 and 1970, among others.

The median market value of the homes destroyed was about $3.47 million, said Matt Kreamer, the data public relations manager at Zillow.

In a first for a wildfire since 1935, the flames crossed Pacific Coast Highway into Point Dume, destroying numerous homes along Wandermere Road and Dume Drive, according to a review of historic fire perimeter data.

The worst destruction occurred in the city's western neighborhoods, with areas such as Malibu Park, near Zuma Beach, losing scores of homes, including one designed by Frank Gehry and once owned by actor Patrick Dempsey.

The Malibu flames burned structures of all sizes, ranging from 400 to 13,000 square feet, according to county property records. Among the most valuable homes destroyed was an oceanfront villa near El Matador State Beach.

It had been on the market for $25 million.

A mansion nearby that sold for $12 million in 2007 was also destroyed.President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador used his first full day in office Sunday to double down on promises to deploy Mexico's military for public security to address a key concern: stemming rampant violence and rising murders.

Speaking before rows of generals at a sun-drenched military installation in one of Mexico City's toniest neighborhoods, Lopez Obrador said the retooling of the military is "indispensable" to tackle the daunting task of making Mexico safer.

The plan requires a constitutional reform that would allow the marines and Army to form a National Guard to police much of the country. Mexico's Supreme Court last month struck down a controversial law signed last year that created a similar legal framework, ruling that the measure was an unconstitutional attempt to normalize the use of the armed forces in public safety.

Deep-rooted corruption and ineffectiveness among police forces has led Mexico to rely heavily for years on the military to combat drug cartels in parts of the country. But both human rights groups and military commanders have long expressed uneasiness about this open-ended policing mission.

Erika Guevara Rosas, the Americas director for Amnesty International, has called militarized security a "failed model" that has led to "serious human rights violations at the hands of the armed forces."

Hopes for change are running high among the more than 30 million Mexicans who voted for Lopez Obrador in a sweeping July 1 election victory that also gave his party a majority in Congress. At the same time, worries are mounting among critics who see an expanding authoritarian streak.

If three or four more legislators defect to his Morena party, it would have a super-majority needed to pass constitutional reforms.

Gustavo Madero, a leading senator with the opposition National Action Party, told The Associated Press that he's very concerned that bills could quickly make their way through Congress with little input from affected parties or public debate.

"We are going to raise attention to the political costs of the democratic abuses, and that is where we are going to be able to achieve some concessions," said Madero, whose great-uncle was a martyred Mexican president who Lopez Obrador admires and mentions almost daily.

Lopez Obrador says he will put the question of creating a National Guard to a referendum so that the people can weigh in on the decision, as they did with the question of whether to continue with construction of a $13 billion airport for the capital that was a third built.

Little more than 1 percent of registered voters participated in the airport referendum, with a majority calling to halt the project. The peso and Mexican stocks plunged in response.

Valeria Moy, director of the Mexico, Como Vamos? think tank, called such referendums "authoritarianism in disguise" because the questionnaires can be tailored to validate executive proposals.

Madero described the referendums as "simulations of direct democracy" to legitimize decisions that the executive branch has already taken.

Lopez Obrador vowed on the campaign trail to return troops to the barracks rather than to continue deploying the military in domestic matters. He has since backtracked on that promise, saying he didn't realize how hopelessly corrupt civilian law enforcement agencies were.

Plus, the mission is critical: The national statistics institute logged 31,174 slayings in 2017, the most since comparable records began being kept in 1997, including the peak year of Mexico's drug war in 2011. The homicide rate last year broke down to 25 per 100,000 inhabitants -- near the levels of Brazil and Colombia at 27 per 100,000.

Lopez Obrador pledged Sunday to strengthen the armed forces while promoting programs to get more young people to study or work rather than succumbing to the temptation of joining criminal groups. And he praised the generals for having climbed the ranks from working-class beginnings, noting that several were sons of shopkeepers and farmers.

"The soldier, the marine, is the people in uniform," the president said, repeating an oft-used refrain.County residents impacted by last month's Woolsey Fire might be eligible to receive one month of Disaster CalFresh food assistance beginning Monday, the California Department of Social Services announced Sunday.

Individuals and families who lived or worked in Los Angeles County in ZIP codes 90263, 90264, 90265, 90290, 91012, 91301, 91302, 91304, 91307, 91311, 91361, 91362 or 91372 may be eligible for assistance if the household experienced at least one of the following as a direct result of the wildfires:

-- Damage to or destruction of the home or self-employment business;

-- Loss or inaccessibility of income, including a reduction or termination of earned income or a significant delay in receiving income due to disaster related problems;

-- Disaster-related expenses (e.g. home or business repairs, temporary shelter, evacuation, etc.) that are not expected to be reimbursed during the disaster benefit period.

Households already participating in CalFresh are not eligible to receive Disaster CalFresh food assistance, but may be eligible to receive supplemental benefits based on their household size.

Individuals and families can apply by visiting a DPSS office in Los Angeles County. Additional application sites and more information is available at www.cdss.ca.gov/Disaster-Help-Center.

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department announced the repopulation -- for residents only -- of the track home community adjacent to Latigo Canyon Road on Sunday, in an area bordered by Birdella Road, Thrift Road, and Tuscan Lane.

The road closure will remain on Latigo Canyon Road past Thrift Road.

The fire -- which broke out Nov. 8 in Ventura County and quickly spread into Los Angeles County -- killed three civilians and injured three firefighters, destroyed 1,643 structures, damaged 364 others and charred 96,949 acres.A group of Southern California doctors crossed the border into Tijuana on Saturday to treat members of the migrant caravan who are camping in overcrowded shelters.

About 20 medical professionals  doctors and medical students from UCLA and UC Irvine  traveled from the Los Angeles area to the border with medical supplies.

Weve been watching the pain and suffering on the news and just sitting there and feeling sorry for them isnt enough. We have to do something, said Margarita Loeza, a doctor at UCLAs Providence St. John's Health Center in Santa Monica.

The group met in San Diego and traveled to Tijuana with local volunteers who were also delivering food and water to shelters.

The Central American migrants have been living in camps in unhealthy conditions.

Not only have they been dealing with poor nutrition, which has led to a number of medical problems, but also theyve suffered abuse from protesters in Tijuana throwing rocks, said Phillip Canete, the organizer of the medical brigade.

Doctors say that a large number of migrants are also dealing with flu and foot problems from their long journey. Many are dealing with colds, cough and other infections because, being from Central America, the migrants have not acclimated to the colder climate here, Canete said.

The doctors set up the clinic Saturday and were hoping to meet with 50 patients a day and will likely return for follow up visits.

Were also immigrants, Loeza said. Our family migrated in different ways. Theyre human beings and we want to help them. Its the right thing to do.

In effect, Mexican border towns are acting as waiting rooms for migrants hoping to start new lives in the U.S. due to bottlenecks at the border. President Donald Trump is calling on Mexico to stop the migrants from reaching the U.S. and is saying that all will stay in Mexico while their claims are processed. He even threatened to close the border. However, Mexico denied that is made a deal with the U.S. to hold asylum-seekers in the country.

For many of the migrant families, it may take months just to apply for asylum. That likely means that the doctors' mission to treat the migrants will be a long-term one.

Saturdays visit was also to assess the migrants needs so that the next time we come we come better equipped, Loeza said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.The national menorah was illuminated Sunday evening, the first night of Hanukkah, during a ceremony near the White House.

Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke participated in the ceremony.

The annual lighting of the National Hanukkah Menorah kicked off about 4 p.m. and featured performances from the United States Army Band and Dreidelman and the Maccabees.

Following the ceremony, guests were treated to latkes and donuts. Free dreidels and Menorah kits were also handed out to spectators.

Tens of millions of people were expected to watch the lighting from home, the National Menorah Council said before the event.

In his Hanukkah message to Americans, President Donald Trump honored the victims of the October shooting at Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

"Jews today continue to face many different forms of violence, hatred, and bigotry around the globe," the president wrote in a statement, adding that the country pledges its "continued love and support" to the victims and their families for the holiday.

"Over the coming days, may the warming glow of each candle on the menorah help fill homes and hearts with love and happiness," Trump said. "Together, we reaffirm the truth that light will always break through the darkness."

CORRECTION (Dec. 2, 2018, 4:50 p.m. ET): An earlier version of this story erroneously reported that the national menorah is the largest in the world. The world's largest menorah is in New York City, according to Guinness World Records.Police said Sunday they were investigating a sidewalk assault in Brooklyn as a hate crime.

The victim, a 32-year-old man, was talking to friends in Williamsburg on Friday evening when a man ran up to the group and punched him in the head from behind, police said. He suffered minor injuries.

The victim Jewish and wearing a shtreimel, a fur hat worn by some Hasidic Jewish men. He had been standing on Throop Avenue at Wallabout Street.

The Anti-Defamation League offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

We remain increasingly concerned by the number of alleged unprovoked assaults on Orthodox Jewish individuals in Brooklyn in recent weeks, said Evan R. Bernstein, regional director of ADL for New York and New Jersey.

Last weekend, a boy wearing Hasidic clothing was beaten by a man in an apparently unprovoked attack just a block from Friday's attack, police say.

In this latest attack, video shows a man running up from behind and punching him in the head, then running away.

Police said the attacker yelled "BLAH!"

Police said the attacker was between 30 and 35 years old, about 5 feet, 10 inches tall and about 250 pounds. He was wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt and dark jeans.

Anyone with information is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).The commissioner of New York City's Office of Emergency Management was at work Monday - not unusual, except for the fact that a deputy mayor apparently tried to fire him on Friday.

Joseph Esposito was asked to resign by Deputy Mayor Laura Anglin after a heated conversation over the city's response to the November snow storm. When he declined she tried to fire him, a person familiar with the situation told News 4.

But it is unclear if she had prior approval to do so from Mayor Bill de Blasio. The mayor's spokesman didn't return multiple calls for comment or clarification throughout the day Monday. Part of the hangup, the source indicated, may be indications that Esposito and De Blasio had not yet spoken as of Monday afternoon.

Finally, at around 10 p.m. on Monday, the mayor's office issued a statement saying, "We have started the process of leadership change at New York City Emergency Management. Commissioner Joe Esposito will continue to lead OEM as we conduct a national search for his successor.

"It is impossible to overstate Commissioner Espositos significant contributions to our citys safety while at OEM and the NYPD," the statement continued. "We look forward to exploring additional opportunities for Commissioner Esposito to remain in the administration."

Joseph Esposito became commissioner of OEM in 2014. Before that he spent 45 years at the NYPD. For more than 12 years, Esposito was the NYPDs top-ranking uniformed officer, helping to oversee the citys historic drop in crime. He was also at Ground Zero when the towers fell on 9/11 and helped implement the NYPDs new counter-terror strategies.

His purported termination was first reported by the Wall Street Journal.

The Nov. 15 storm paralyzed the city, with some people reporting commute times in excess of 12 hours.

Though only 6 or so inches of snow fell, the chaos was enough for some to call for De Blasio's resignation.

The mayor forcefully rejected that notion but did promise a full audit of the city's response. Last week officials announced a new storm plan calling for a full city response when even 2 inches of snow are forecast.

"Im a little shocked that Esposito is being fired," NYC City Council Speaker Corey Johnson said in a tweet after the WSJ story broke. "The Admin did not explicitly place blame on OEM in the days after the storm or at our Council hearing."

In addition to Johnson, numerous members of the City Council rushed to Esposito's defense on Twitter, including Queens councilman Barry Grodenchik, who said his firing would be a "man made disaster."

Some members of the council were even more pointed in their reaction.

"This is a dedicated public servant and hes owed more than being shamelessly scapegoated by the... deputy mayor for operations (really?)," Queens councilman Francisco Moya tweeted.Federal authorities spent hours executing a search warrant at the home of Atlantic City Mayor Frank Gilliam.

NBC10's Ted Greenberg was there as FBI and IRS agents removed computer equipment and white boxes from the North Ohio Avenue home. Agents arrived around 7:45 a.m. Monday and didn't leave until after noon.

The FBI's Newark division confirmed to the Associated Press that agents searched Gilliam's house. It wasn't immediately known what prompted the search.

Outside the home, FBI agent Jessica Weisman said, "We are here in an official capacity, executing a search warrant. That's all we can say."

Gilliam didn't respond to Greenberg's request for comment by phone or text. He left the home and drove off in his private SUV without saying anything early Monday afternoon.

A spokeswoman said the mayor was not at City Hall Monday and that the mayor's office remained open for business.

The Democrat is in his first year as mayor. The former two-term city councilman defeated Republican incumbent Don Guardian in November 2017 in a contentious election in which Guardian alleged voter fraud by Gilliam's campaign.

In April, a judge threw out a criminal complaint against Gilliam over the alleged theft of a $10,000 check from the Atlantic City Democratic Committee. The committee had accused Gilliam and a former campaign manager of unlawful taking when Gilliam deposited the committee's $10,000 check into his campaign account.

Gilliam said it was a mistake and later returned the money.

Gilliam and several others were involved in an early morning fight last month outside an Atlantic City casino but local prosecutors announced last week they wouldn't file criminal charges.

In April, a judge threw out a criminal complaint against Gilliam over the alleged theft of a $10,000 check from the Atlantic City Democratic Committee.

A spokesperson for the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, the agency that oversees Atlantic City, released a statement on the search warrant Monday.

We are aware of and are monitoring the situation in Atlantic City and we cannot comment on an ongoing investigation," the spokesperson wrote. "We remain focused on the people of Atlantic City and ensuring that their needs are met. The state, city officials, and government, civic, private and philanthropic stakeholders throughout the city are staying on task to keep Atlantic City moving forward.

This story is developing and will be updated.What to Know Sgt. Jason Mitchell McClary died Sunday at the military hospital in Landstuhl, Germany.

He is the second soldier from Pennsylvania killed in the explosion last Tuesday near Ghazni province.

It was the deadliest attack against U.S. forces in Afghanistan this year.

The Pentagon says that a fourth soldier has died from wounds suffered last week in a roadside bomb blast in eastern Afghanistan.

Sgt. Jason Mitchell McClary died Sunday at the military hospital in Landstuhl, Germany. He was 24 years old and from Export, Pennsylvania.

He is the second soldier from Pennsylvania killed in the explosion last Tuesday near Ghazni province. The other soldiers killed were Army Capt. Andrew Patrick Ross, of Lexington, Virginia; Army Sgt. 1st Class Eric Michael Emond, of Brush Prairie, Washington; and Air Force Staff Sgt. Dylan J. Elchin, of Hookstown, Pennsylvania.

Two others were wounded.

It was the deadliest attack against U.S. forces in Afghanistan this year. The Taliban claimed responsibility.

McClary was assigned to 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, based at Fort Carson, Colorado.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 3)  Senate Majority Leader Migz Zubiri said President Rodrigo Duterte's proposal to create a death squad against rebels is similar to extrajudicial killings.

"I'm not in favor of that because that's not the job of the military and the police. That is similar to an extrajudicial killing," Zubiri told CNN Philippines' The Source on Monday. "We are not in the business of having assassination squads. We are supposed to be a civilized government."

However, Zubiri chalked up Duterte's proposal to his being "passionate" whenever talking about criminality.

"I understand the position of the President on this. He's probably speaking from sheer frustration," Zubiri said.

Duterte said last week he wants to create his own death squad to match the Sparrow Unit of the communist New People's Army. This has been hit by opposition lawmakers and rights groups.

"[International humanitarian law] requires States to use only regular armed forces under strict military discipline thus this strictly prohibits death squads under all circumstances," Commission on Human Rights chairperson Chito Gascon said.

While saying Duterte's proposal for a death squad is only an idea, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo also denied that this would be a violation of due process.

"We have a situation here where there is a group of men who will kill with impunity. What do you want the state to do? Just sit idle and watch? We cannot do that. It's the duty of the state to protect its citizens," Panelo said.

Despite drawing flak, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said they would study Duterte's proposal "very closely."

There are pending communications against Duterte before the International Criminal Court, which has began a preliminary examination on allegations that the President has committed crimes against humanity in the course of his drug war, which has taken the lives of nearly 5,000 drug suspects.

CNN Philippines' Xave Gregorio and David Santos contributed to this report.A spokesman for Russias government said Saturday that only two emails and a phone call took place between President Donald Trumps former personal lawyer Michael Cohen and Russian officials about a planned Trump Tower project.

But Russian officials gave the exchanges no more attention than any other business proposition, spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Argentina.

Peskov told NBC News in an interview that every week dozens and dozens of foreign businessmen are approaching us, mentioning possible investments, searching for contacts. He said Trump representatives ceased contact with the Russians.

Trumps former personal lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen pleaded guilty this week to lying to Congress about the proposed Trump Tower project in Moscow and admitted discussions continued into June 2016 during the presidential campaign.For more than a month, a rotating roster of preachers has been leading a non-stop, round-the-clock service at a small Protestant chapel in The Hague in an attempt to shield a family of Armenian asylum-seekers from deportation.

Under a centuries-old tradition, authorities in the Netherlands don't enter a church while a service is underway. That means that for now the Tamrazyan family  parents, their two daughters and son  are safe from Dutch immigration authorities who want to send them back to Armenia.

"There was only one thing you could do and that was starting a church service to save the life of this family, but also call attention for the fate of so many children in similar circumstances," Theo Hettema, chair of the General Council of the Protestant Church of The Hague, said Friday. "It's heartbreaking. We had compassion and we had good reasons and we thought it was the mission of our church to act like this."

The church service shines a light on a problem facing authorities in the Netherlands and elsewhere in Europe: what to do with families who have been fighting legal battles for asylum for so long that their children have become deeply integrated into society, going to school, learning the language and making friends.

On a cold winter's Friday, visitors come and go at the church, ringing the bell on a door that in normal circumstances is open to all. A sign on the door says it is closed "due to the special circumstances."

The visits of supporters underscore a continuing groundswell of sympathy for asylum seekers in parts of a Dutch society that once was known for its welcoming attitude, but has drifted to the right in recent years.

One visitor, 74-year-old Bart ten Broek, said he was proud of the church's action, while lamenting the need for it.

"I love this country with the tradition of tolerance, respect for the other," he said. "But you see there is a change and therefore I am here, too, to show our attitude. We have to be hosts."

The Tamrazyan family has been living in the Netherlands for nearly nine years, as their asylum application and various appeals proceeded slowly through the courts. Now the Council of State, the country's highest administrative court, has ruled they must return to their home country, which is considered safe by the Dutch government.

The Associated Press was not given access to the family. "The father was politically active and fled to the Netherlands because of threats," Hettema said.

Over the years, sisters Hayarpi, 21, and Warduhi, 19, and their 15-year-old brother Seyran have laid down roots, attended school and made friends.

While the round-the-clock service continues, the family sometimes listens to the sermon, cooks or receives visits from friends.

"It's very stressful for them," Hettema said. "Sometimes they are sad and nervous and sometimes they are hopeful and give us hope in return."

Martine Goeman, a lawyer with the Dutch branch of non-government group Defense For Children, said there are about 400 children in a similar position in the Netherlands.

The Dutch government introduced a rule in 2013, known by many as a "children's pardon," that under special circumstances grants asylum to children who have been in the country for more than five years while their asylum application is processed, but Goeman says appeals for such a pardon are rarely honored.

"The eligibility criteria are so strict that almost nobody is granted one," she said. "So actually it is a dead letter. That is a shame, because a children's pardon sounds like something great for children, but in practice it is meaningless."

The Dutch justice ministry declined to comment on the family's case. In a written response, the ministry said the current four-party coalition led by Prime Minister Mark Rutte had decided not to broaden the children's pardon when it took office.

In exceptional cases, the justice minister can use discretionary powers to grant asylum.

"These are cases involving unforeseen circumstances that were not taken into account when the policy and rules were established," according to the ministry statement. "Factors such as a long period of residence in the Netherlands and enrolment in education in the Netherlands are not sufficiently exceptional circumstances."

Goeman said she hopes the government will allow the children to stay.

"This is not going to blow over," she said. "The opposition in society is only getting stronger."

Hettema said that after initially using local preachers to deliver the service, the church has now reached out to others and has received offers of help from some 500 people from different churches as far away as Belgium.

That support gives the locals strength to carry on, hoping that they can open talks with lawmakers and the government about the family's plight.

"As long as it's useful to contribute to the dialogue, we will continue with the church service," Hettema said.John and Barbara Valutkevich booked a cruise around Italy last summer to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.

We bought roundtrip tickets on Alitalia Boston to Rome, said John Valutkevich.We bought premium economy because, being the size that I am, I need a little bit of legroom.

But when they arrived at the airport, there was a problem.

The young lady behind the counter said Im very sorry, weve had to substitute an aircraft because of maintenance issues and this new aircraft has no accommodations for premium economy, said John, And, by the way, business class is sold out, so we can offer you economy class tickets.

According to John, the agent told him he would be reimbursed for a portion of the cost of the flights, and gave him an email address to contact the airline. He says he immediately sent a refund request and headed off to enjoy Italy.

But, he says he didnt get a response, and after the trip, he spent months trying to get his money back.

It was extremely frustrating, said John, there was no direct phone number provided. There was no way to call anyone other than ending up with a dead end with voicemail. I kept emailing, and no response whatsoever.

Thats when he contacted NBC 10 Boston Responds for help.

If you calculated the price of what we had paid for the tickets there was about a fifteen hundred dollar difference in what we paid for versus what we actually had gotten, said John, They had taken our money and hadnt provided what we had paid for.

We contacted Alitalia to see if we could get the situation resolved, and the airline reached out to the couple to let them know the refund was being processed.

Here we are months later, said John, nobody from Alitalia bothered to contact me, however when NBC 10 and Leslie Gaydos became involved, all of a sudden, 24 hours, here comes a response saying oh yes, we know who you are. I was very pleasantly surprised.

Alitalia declined to comment for this story. John received a check for $1456.00.

Very happy, very happy indeed, said John. It was a successful conclusion.

If you have a consumer issue that has left you frustrated, maybe we can help. We are the only local station committed to solving your consumer complaints. Reach out to us on our website, or call 1-888-521-NEWS. We promise, we will respond to every call and inquiry."We take the security of our bases and personnel incredibly seriously"

A RUSSIAN journalist was seen filming outside the 77th Brigades barracks in Hermitage.

Timur Siraziev, a journalist for Russias Channel One, was seen filming from a vehicle as it passed the barracks on November 21.

It is also reported that he was seen walking towards one of the entrances while speaking to the camera.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said: "We take the security of our bases and personnel incredibly seriously.

"If a member of the public sees anyone acting suspiciously in or around a military base it should be reported to the police as a matter of urgency."

The 77th Brigade has been located at the Denison Barracks in Hermitage since 2015.

It is a combined Regular and Army Reserve unit that deals with modern warfare using non-lethal engagement. It specialises in using social media and other unconventional forms of warfare.Richard Benyon claims it is "wrong to link rises or falls to any one cause"

NEWBURY MP Richard Benyon has claimed the impact of Universal Credit is not the clear-cut reason as to why the foodbank usage has soared across West Berkshire.

A year on since the welfare reform was rolled out across the district, Mr Benyon staunchly defended the controversial welfare benefit  brought in by his Conservative Government  which merges six tax credits into one lump payment.

Last week, West Berks Foodbank surpassed the number of people it fed during the whole of last year  in just 34 weeks.

West Berks Foodbank chairman Andrew Bruce believes Universal Credit  the largest welfare reform Britain has seen in a generation which was introduced in West Berkshire last December  has been a significant driving force behind the increase.

But pinpointing Universal Credit as the sole cause for the rise in the foodbanks usage is inaccurate, Mr Benyon claimed.

Speaking about the rise across the districts foodbanks, Mr Benyon said: The reasons people use foodbanks are complex and I believe it is wrong to link rises or falls to any one cause.

A couple of years ago, we had a significant decline in use of our local foodbank and I certainly never used that to say it was an indicator of anything significant in our welfare system or the economy at large.

I do not think it is clear-cut to say that the increase is down to Universal Credit entirely.

When asked whether he denied that Universal Credit had impacted on the rise in foodbank usage, Mr Benyon reiterated his trust in Mr Bruce and his team, stating: I would certainly never dismiss their [the foodbanks] claims.

To be perfectly honest, I and my team were prepared for a deluge of case work when Universal Credit started to be rolled out.

The truth is, we have havent had a lot of cases.

But he added that the new flagship system was not without its challenges, saying: The Government is spending more on benefits now than it has in the past.

I am not the first to admit there are teething problems  there will always be problems with the new system.

But for the vast majority of people, Universal Credit is a better system than tax credits.

Ive had people who have come up to me in the street to say its a better system.

But for a small number of people it can mean a significant increase for agencies, like the foodbank.

The Trussell Trust, which operates 428 of Britains food banks, including West Berkshires, reported in April that its facilities were four times busier in areas where the new credit had been in place for 12 months or more, compared with those where it had been introduced more recently.

West Berks Foodbank fed 2,791 clients over a 12-month period from April 1, 2017, to March 31, 2018.

Since April 1 this year, it has fed more than 2,890 people.

In light of the huge rise, it is predicted the charity will feed around 5,360 people by March 1, 2019  which would mean an increase of 92 per cent on last year.

Universal Credit merges six benefits  income support, income-based jobseekers allowance, income-related employment and support allowance, housing benefit, child tax credit and working tax credit  into one.

The monthly sum, which is paid to millions of people across the country, is intended to make claiming benefits simpler.

But in many cases, new claimants have to wait up to five weeks before they receive their first payment.

In September, the Chancellor announced in his autumn Budget plans to inject 1bn over the next five years to help people who are being moved on to the new system, which Mr Benyon said helped incentivise people to get into work.

Speaking about foodbanks in general, the MP added: Im a great supporter of foodbanks, which make a huge difference to peoples lives all around the country and peoples lives who are in great chaos.

Its a fantastic safety net for them.

The Trussell Trust does not specifically identify Universal Credit as one of is crisis causes when people are referred to a foodbank.

But West Berks Foodbank has recorded significant increases in foodbank usage in certain crisis categories, including other, benefit changes and benefit delays  all three of which, Mr Bruce says, account for clients who are somewhere in the system when accessing or being moved on to Universal Credit.

Mr Bruce said: The difficulty that we have is when Universal Credit claims start and when they finish.

People can still be running into Universal Credit issues 12 months from now.

If you have to wait five weeks for your salary, and you dont have any other money, what are you going to do?

Youre going to knock on the door and say, Can I have some food please?'Everyone keeps shouting at us about it. We need to do something' - councillor

HUNGERFORD town centres pigeon problem is now critical  but culling is counterproductive, according to the latest advice.

The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) states the control of feral pigeons is the sole preserve of the landowner  but it forbids certain corrective measures.

Independent advice from the national Pigeon Pest Control Centre (PPCC) states that netting to prevent nesting could lead to prosecution for causing unnecessary suffering if birds become trapped.

Meanwhile, it states that culling can, counter-intuitively, lead to population rejuvenation and growth.

Non-lethal methods recommended include the hugely time-consuming egg oiling, which deprives fertilised eggs of oxygen and prevents baby birds developing and hatching.

Only once such methods have been exhausted can killing the birds be allowed under licence, according to the PPCC.

At a recent meeting of Hungerford Town Councils highways and transport committee, deputy town clerk Philippa Adams said: I was approached by the Town and Manor [of Hungerford] to come up with a novel approach.

I researched it hugely.

There was a lot of research done in Italy and Switzerland... after 24 years of culling they had more than what they started with.

When they removed the eggs it had an effect  but Defra says you musnt just take the eggs because it leads to calcium-depleted birds.

Ms Adams said she had come up with an alternative, potential strategy, but added: Ive not been allowed to run with it  and I dont want to discuss it in an open meeting.

Deputy committee chairman Richard Hudson said: Things are now quite critical, especially outside [High Street retail outlet] Dods.

There are hundreds of them.

Everyone keeps shouting at us about it. We need to do something.

The town council has earmarked 2,000 to pay for a second trap and despatch operation, although the committee heard this was, at best, a temporary measure.

And councillor Rob Chicken warned: Short-term fixes seem to be just throwing good money after bad.

Nevertheless, the committee agreed to continue with the trap and despatch programme while pursuing a long-term solution.

One suggestion that was back on the table, the meeting heard, was providing a breeding dovecote.

In February last year, Newbury Weekly News reader Peter Warren-Tibbets suggested just that.

He said at the time: I was interested to read about the problem pigeons in Hungerford and the various controls they are considering.

This made me think of our trip to Melbourne, Australia, last year where they had a similar problem but solved it by creating a pigeon-nesting structure in the park.

Mr Warren-Tibbets, of Upper Basildon, said the wooden structure was about 20ft high and had several nesting areas inside with access for the pigeons from the outside.

He added: The birds lay their eggs in the nesting areas and a council employee visits every day and removes any eggs.

This has the effect of controlling numbers without the need of poisons or catch and dispatch.Contributed / Jake Rauscher/Americares

The Fred Weisman Americares Free Clinic of Bridgeport is seeking medical volunteers and interpreters to help care for low-income patients without health insurance. Nurses, physicians and other medical volunteers are needed, along with interpreters fluent in both Spanish and English.

Clinic sessions are four hours and volunteers typically work one or two sessions per month. The clinic, located at 115 Highland Ave., has sessions available Monday to Friday. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age.BROOKFIELD  The Brookfield Craft Center has earned several grants that will help the non-profit expand youth and education programs.

The organization received a $5,000 matching grant from the Department of Economic and Community Development, Office of the Arts. The money will be put toward the Craft Centers educational programming.

State Rep. Steve Harding, R-Brookfield, said he was pleased the organization earned the grant.

Howard [the centers executive director] and his team have done an incredible job of growing and spotlighting the Craft Center in recent years and I am certain that this grant will be helpful in expanding their critical efforts, Harding said in a release.

Another $10,600 grant from the Union Savings Bank Foundation will go toward youth-oriented programs.

The Windgate Charitable Foundation is also giving $25,000 each year over the next two years for programs in the new Digital Arts Studio, which is the foundation for the Center for Modern Craftsmanship.

We are fortunate to have these partners as we build our programs said Howard Lasser, the centers executive director. These grants are specify designated for program support. This will help us offer more classes and scholarships to students. Our goal is to be able to give the opportunity for creative expression to all who seek it regardless of their economic circumstance and these grants will help us in that effort.A daily hydroxyurea pill may finally bring some relief for young children living with the painful and deadly blood disease sickle cell anemia (SCA) in resource-challenged sub-Saharan Africa, where the disease is prevalent and health care availability is suboptimal.

This is what a large multinational clinical trial called REACH discovered when it tested daily hydroxyurea treatment in 606 children between the ages of 1 and 10 years old. The children took a pill each day for six months, followed by increases in the daily dosages based on their health status and weight. Initial doses varied between 15-20 mg/kg a day.

The treatment improved their health by controlling SCA symptoms and, in an expected finding, giving them some protection from malaria that is also prevalent in the region, according to the study's lead physicians at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and Centre Hospitalier Monkole in Kinshasa, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Study results are published today online by The New England Journal of Medicine in conjunction with being presented at the American Society of Hematology's annual meeting in San Diego.

The clinical trial determined that hydroxyurea therapy is feasible to use and safe for children in sub-Saharan Africa. Compared to pre-treatment levels, hydroxyurea use was linked to reduced rates of sickle cell pain by an average of 55 percent, infections by 38 percent, malaria by 51 percent, transfusions by 67 percent, and death by 70 percent.

"Hydroxyurea was safe and offered many benefits to these young patients, including improved anemia, fewer sickle cell pain events, less malaria, and better survival," said Russell Ware, MD, PhD, the study's senior investigator and a physician-scientist at the Cincinnati Children's Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute.

Also leading the clinical trial was Leon Tshilolo, MD, PhD, at the Centre Hospitalier Monkole. Investigators named the study REACH, an acronym for Realizing Effectiveness Across Continents with Hydroxyurea. According to Tshilolo, the clinical trial lived up to its name.

"The study shows the importance of research partnerships between the US and Africa to improve clinical care," he said. "Even in an African setting hydroxyurea is feasible to use, accepted by patients and families, well-tolerated, and safe for children with sickle cell anemia. Almost all of the children had clinical improvements, and the older patients were well enough to attend school."

SCA's Heavy Burden

Caused by a genetic mutation and most prevalent in people of African ancestry, SCA is a painful disease where blood cells turn sickle-shaped and become stuck in the vascular system where they block blood flow. This can damage vital organs and cause death. Hydroxyurea works by significantly increasing both hemoglobin and fetal hemoglobin in the blood, which helps reduce sickling, anemia and other impacts on patients.

Available therapies to treat SCA effectively are limited, although numerous studies in recent years--almost all in developed countries--show that hydroxyurea is a safe and effective drug for managing the disease and improving quality of life.

SCA affects more than 90,000 people in the United States and millions of people worldwide, with 75 percent of the disease's burden in sub-Saharan Africa. Other nations with high incidence rates are India, nations in the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.

Because of the lack of detailed medical records, the best available estimates are that 50 to 90 percent of infants with SCA born in sub-Saharan Africa die before the age of 5, according to a 2017 paper published by Cincinnati Children's researchers that included Ware. The paper also reported that efforts to help people in the region with SCA have been stagnant because most affected people lack access to basic diagnostics and clinical care.

Institutions like Cincinnati Children's are working with ASH and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (part of NIH) to invest in research and clinical programs and address the global burden of SCA in limited-resource settings, especially sub-Saharan Africa.

The Phase 1-2 multi-center open-label REACH clinical trial treated children in four sub-Saharan countries: the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Kenya and Angola. Researchers plan to follow children in the study long-term to get additional data about growth and development and to look for any possible effects on organ function and fertility.More than 30 abstracts presented at the 60th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting & Exposition in San Diego, December 1-4, featured research highlighting the ability of Bio-Rad's Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) to provide high sensitivity and accuracy in quantifying minimal residual disease (MRD) -- those remaining cancer cells after therapy that are associated with relapse -- in blood diseases such as leukemia.

One study described how ddPCR may be able to more accurately determine MRD than qPCR and therefore better determine which patients with childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia are eligible for high-risk treatments. In another study, researchers found that the concentration of residual leukemic cells, determined by the QX200 Droplet Digital PCR System, was one of the risk factors that predicted relapse in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia who had discontinued therapy. In addition to these studies, below are highlights of other presentations that showed how ddPCR is used to measure MRD in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

ddPCR utilization in phase 1b trial in TP53-mutant MDS and AML

The following poster (abstract number 3091) was presented on Sunday, December 2.

Dr. David Sallman, a hematologic oncologist at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida, presented results from a phase 1b clinical trial enabled by ddPCR. Dr. Sallman and his team tested the use of azacitidine, a chemotherapy drug, in combination with small-molecule drug APR-246 in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and AML with TP53 mutations. Data have previously shown that azacitidine alone leads to complete remission in 20 to 30% of patients with TP53 mutant MDS and AML. The results of this study showed that 82% of these patients achieved complete remission when APR-246 was added, representing a significant improvement over treatment with azacitidine alone.

The researchers used next-generation sequencing (NGS) and ddPCR to analyze the depth of remission by quantifying MRD. "In our trial we found that ddPCR was extremely effective at defining patient-specific depth of remission," Dr. Sallman said.

Phase 2 of the trial will continue to use ddPCR as one of the ways to determine the depth of remission, noted Dr. Sallman, adding that remission, as defined by ddPCR and high-sensitivity NGS assays, would also be evaluated as a predictor of outcomes in patients treated with APR-246 and azacitidine.

ddPCR helps predict remission in patients with AML

The following poster (abstract number 2139) was presented on Saturday, December 1.

Allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is one of the only curative therapies for hematologic malignancies such as AML. However, many patients relapse after transplantation.

Dr. Amanda Winters, MD, PhD, of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado and Children's Hospital Colorado, and her team evaluated the use of ddPCR for monitoring MRD to predict which patients might relapse after HSCT. While MRD has previously been shown to be highly predictive of relapse for patients after chemotherapy, few studies have evaluated its predictive ability in HSCT.

The team used single-mutation ddPCR assays to track 21 different AML-associated mutations in a 36-patient cohort. All patients selected for this retrospective study had received a bone marrow transplant and consented to the Tissue Bank protocol, making past marrow and peripheral blood samples available to researchers. The patients had also been identified as having at least one of the 21 mutations at diagnosis.

The research found that ddPCR-based molecular MRD assessment was predictive for relapse and survival post-HSCT for patients with AML. The presence of molecular MRD at the one-month point after transplant was significantly correlated with relapse and mortality. Based on these findings, Dr. Winters and her team believe monitoring AML-associated mutations with ddPCR after transplant could help physicians detect relapse earlier.Sleep hygiene, which includes practices like providing a cool and quiet sleeping environment or reading before bed time to help kids unwind, is increasingly popular among parents looking to ensure their children get a good night's rest. But are these practices all they're cracked up to be? University of British Columbia sleep expert and nursing professor Wendy Hall recently led a review of the latest studies to find out.

"Good sleep hygiene gives children the best chances of getting adequate, healthy sleep every day. And healthy sleep is critical in promoting children's growth and development," said Hall. "Research tells us that kids who don't get enough sleep on a consistent basis are more likely to have problems at school and develop more slowly than their peers who are getting enough sleep."

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends the following amounts of sleep, based on age group:

4 to 12 months - 12 to 16 hours

1 to 2 years - 11 to 14 hours

3 to 5 years - 10 to 13 hours

6 to 12 years - 9 to 12 hours

13 to 18 years - 8 to 10 hours

The UBC review aimed at systematically analyzing the evidence for sleep hygiene across different countries and cultures, and honed in on 44 studies from 16 countries. The focus was on four age groups in particular: infants and toddlers (four months to two years), preschoolers (three to five years), school-age children (six to 12 years) and adolescents (13 to 18 years). These studies involved close to 300,000 kids in North America, Europe and Asia.

"We found good-to-strong endorsement of certain sleep hygiene practices for younger kids and school-age kids: regular bedtimes, reading before bed, having a quiet bedroom, and self-soothing--where you give them opportunities to go to sleep and go back to sleep on their own, if they wake up in the middle of the night," said Hall.

Even for older kids, keeping a regular bedtime was important. The review found papers that showed that adolescents whose parents set strict guidelines about their sleep slept better than kids whose parents didn't set any guidelines.

Hall and co-author Elizabeth Nethery, a nursing PhD student at UBC, also found extensive evidence for limiting technology use just before bedtime, or during the night when kids are supposed to be sleeping. Studies in Japan, New Zealand and the United States showed that the more exposure kids had to electronic media around bedtime, the less sleep they had.

"One big problem with school-age children is it can take them a long time to get to sleep, so avoiding activities like playing video games or watching exciting movies before bedtime was important," said Hall.

Many of the studies also highlighted the importance of routines in general. A study in New Zealand showed family dinner time was critical to helping adolescents sleep.

Information provided by Chinese studies and one Korean study linked school-age children's and adolescents' short sleep duration to long commute times between home and school and large amounts of evening homework. With more children coping with longer commutes and growing amounts of school work, Hall says this is an important area for future study in North America.

Surprisingly, there wasn't a lot of evidence linking caffeine use before bedtime to poor sleep; it appeared to be the total intake during the day that matters.

While Hall said more studies are needed to examine the effect of certain sleep hygiene factors on sleep quality, she would still strongly recommend that parents set bedtimes, even for older kids, and things like sitting down for a family dinner, establishing certain rituals like reading before bed, and limiting screen time as much as possible.

"Sleep education can form part of school programming," added Hall. "There was a project in a Montreal school where everyone was involved in designing and implementing a sleep intervention--the principal, teachers, parents, kids, and even the Parent Advisory Council. The intervention was effective, because everyone was on board and involved from the outset."White Fox protects Seoul from the fallout of The Death of Doctor Strange in new special preview

The Death of Doctor Strange leads to White Fox being the prime suspect in other Marvel murdersSorry!

This content is not available in your regionNew Delhi:

Indias most expensive SUV Rolls Royce Cullinan has finally arrived at a staggering price range of Rs 6.9 crore (ex-showroom, Delhi). The price of the luxury SUV is even more than Mukesh Ambanis Bentley Bentayga SUV which costs around Rs 3.78 crores.

The bookings of Rolls Royce Cullinan are now open and soon will be seen gracing Indian roads. Built in England and imported to India, the British luxury car maker will begin delivery from next year.

Also Read | KTM Duke 125 delivery begins in India, Bengaluru biker becomes the first owner

On specifications front, Cullinan comes with a 6.5-litre V12 turbocharged petrol engine which can produce 560 bhp of peak power and 850 Nm of torque. The luxury SUV has a 8-speed torque converter automatic gearbox which drives all four wheels with all Wheel Drive System.

Despite its massive weight, Rolls Royce Cullinan can accelerate 0-100 kmph in just five seconds and touch a top-speed of 250 kmph. The car comes with an air suspension with a self-levelling technology.

From outside, the luxury SUV features chrome grille, massive proportions, a boxy shape and a 22-icnhalloy wheels.

Cullinan also offers a couple of electrically deployed picnic chairs that are integrated into the boot floor. It also has enough connectivity and comfort features to entertain all the occupants.

Also Read | Maruti Suzuki Ertiga 2018 launched in India, all you need to know

With Cullinan added into the list of most expensive SUVs in India, it is now in direct competition with Lamborghini Urus and Bentleys Bentayga.

Currently, the Indian line up of Bentley includes Phantom, Ghost, Wraith, Dawn and Black Badge.New Delhi:

The BSE Sensex pared initial gains on Monday to end modestly higher at 36,241 points on profit-booking at higher levels amid mixed global cues. The stocks witnessed an early morning euphoria owing to Saturday's G20 Summit, where US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping negotiated a 90-day trade war truce.

The BSE Sensex, however, gained 46.70 points to end at 36,241 continuing its rising streak for the sixth straight session on Monday. The market sentiment took a hit from a sharp surge in crude oil prices and depreciation in the rupee against the US dollar. In a similar move, the broader NSE Nifty edged up by 7 points to close at 10,883.75.

Read | Qatar to quit OPEC in 2019 amid tension with Saudi Arabia

Of the Sensex 30-stock pack, 20 scrips ended in the green and 10 fell. Sun Pharma turned out to be the biggest loser, down 7.52 per cent, YES Bank, for the second consecutive day, topped the leaderboard.

Broader markets BSE Midcap and Smallcap indices ended in the green, with a gain of 0.46 per cent each. In the BSE sectoral landscape, healthcare, energy, auto and capital goods all traded in the red. The healthcare was the worst hit, down 1.21%. Also, BSE utilities bagged the maximum gains by rising 2.66 per cent.

The rupee, on the other hand, dropped by 88 paise, its biggest single-day loss in more than three months, to close at 70.46 against the US currency, snapping its four-day rising streak.

Read | Jet Airways issues statement over cancellation of flights, refutes reports on 'pilot non-cooperation'

India's economic growth slowed to 7.1 per cent in the September quarter as consumption demand moderated and farm sector displayed signs of weakness.

For all the Latest Business News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

A police inspector and a local resident died during a clash between villagers and cops inA western Uttar Pradesh'sA Bulandshahr districtA after carcasses of 25 cows were found on Monday, said the police.A Additional Director General of Meerut zone Prashant Kumar said a mob pelted the police with stones and indulged in arson setting several vehicles and the Chingarwathi Police Chowki on fire. The inspector has been identified as Subodh Kumar Singh.

One police inspector dead during a clash with people protesting against illegal slaughterhouses in Bulandshahr pic.twitter.com/Ugts7FDtsI a ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 3, 2018

Additional Director General (law and order) Anand Kumar, while holding a press conference, said people had complained that cattle carcass was found in a field. Despite giving assurance to the villagers, they carried the carcass on a tractor and blocked the main road. Later, the protest turned violent when the villagers started pelting stones on the police. The forces retaliated with lathi charge to bring the situation under control.

As tension prevailed in the area, policemen from several police stations have been rushed along with senior officials to take control of the situation, the police said.A

Anand Kumar added that the policeman died in stone pelting from villagers, and later a local, Sumit, also got shot and was shifted to a hospital in Meerut where he succumbed to his injuries. He said the SIT will investigate the entire incident.New Delhi:

Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas wedding at the Umaid Bhawan Palace has come with a lot of criticisms and bashings. After being called hypocrites for bursting fireworks at their Christian wedding, the duo has once again found themselves at the centre of yet another controversy. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India chapter on has called out newlyweds, Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas for using elephants and horses at their wedding procession.



The non-profit organisation for animals took to Twitter to blast the couple who tied the knot as per Hindu traditions on in Jodhpur.



"Dear @priyankachopra and @nickjonas. Elephants for weddings live and chains and horses are controlled with whips, spiked bits. People are rejecting elephant rides and having horse-free weddings. Congrats, but we regret it was not a happy day for animals," the animal rights organisation wrote on the microblogging site.

Also Read | Ayushmann's first glimpse from 'Dream Girl', as whacky as it can get!



This co-incidentally collides with the central government's proposal to impose a ban on the use of animals in the circus.



To heighten the woes and the seriousness of animal cruelty, PETA India also shared its video from four years ago, titled, 'Captive Elephants in Jaipur: PETA India's 2014 Inspection'.



The couple, who left Jodhpur on , is yet to respond to the remarks.

Also Read | Ranveer is thrilled to work with Rohit Shetty and KJo in 'Simmba'

For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Subodh Kumar Singh, an inspector who was allegedly killed by a mob protesting alleged illegal cow slaughter in Bulandshahr on Monday, was the investigation officer (IO) in the Mohammad Akhlaq lynching case in Dadri, said additional director general of police (law and order) Anand Kumar. According to reports, Singh was instrumental in getting the meat samples to the lab on time. Kumar said Singh was the inspector officer in the case from September 28, 2015 to November 9, 2015. The charge-sheet in the case was filled by a different IO in March 2016.

Reports suggest there were widespread allegations of corruption against Singh, the UP police maintained that Singh's transfer was a routine one. Akhlaq was beaten to death on the night of September 28, 2015 in Bisara village near Dadri district by a mob infuriated by rumours that he and his family had stored and consumed beef.

Bulandshahr violence: What we know so far:

# Subodh Kumar Singh and a youth, identified as Sumit, were killed on Monday as a mob protesting alleged illegal cow slaughter torched a police post in Siana and clashed with the police, which opened fire.

# Additional Director General (Meerut zone) Prashant Kumar said the protesters from Mahaw village and nearby areas pelted stones on the police and indulged in arson, setting ablaze several vehicles and Chingarwathi Police Chowki.

# Singh was posted at the Siana Police Station.

# He died in the violence, while Sumit died of gunshot wounds.

# The violence lasted nearly three hours.

# The Uttar Pradesh government deployed additional police, including over 1,000 personnel of anti-riot forces, and ordered multiple probes -- by SIT, ADG-Intelligence -- and a magisterial inquiry.

# Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who is in Rajasthan for election campaign, said strict action will be taken against the guilty after the probe reports are received.

# The Congress slammed the chief minister saying he should first set his own house in order before "gallivanting" around the country for election campaign.

# Anand Kumar said the trouble began after villagers found some body parts of cows in a jungle in Mahaw village.

# Activists of right-wing organisations soon gathered at the spot and alleged that people of a community were indulging in cow slaughter, he said.

# Angry villagers and members of various Hindu groups brought the animal remains in tractor-trolley to the Chingarwathi Police Chowki and demanded action against the culprits.

# Bulandshahr District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha, Sub-divisional Magistrate Avinash Kumar Maurya and other senior officials tried to reason with the protestors but they refused to budge.

# The protesters soon turned violent, pelting stones on policemen and indulging in arson. The police fired gunshots in self-defence.

# The ADG said the exact reason for his death will be known after a post-mortem and the inquiry by the ADG-intelligence who has been asked to submit a report in 48 hours.

# Mobile footage from the area, shot by onlookers, showed young men attacking policemen with stones.

# The violence started at around 10 am in Siana area in the district where a major three-day Islamic congregation had concluded this afternoon. The policemen warned against attempts to spread any misleading information, saying the incident was not related in any way to the congregation.

(With agency inputs)

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Prices of fuel continued its downward trend on Monday because of the huge fall in global crude oil prices last week. Petrol was pegged at Rs 71.93 a litre with a fall in Rs 0.30 in Delhi, while diesel was being sold at Rs 66.66 after a decrease of Rs 0.36, according to the data in the Indian Oil Corporation website. In Mumbai, petrol was sold at Rs 77.50 per litre and diesel was pegged at Rs 69.77 per litre.

In Chennai, petrol was retailing at Rs 74.63 per litre and diesel at 70.38 a litre. In Kolkata, petrol was sold at Rs 73.96 per litre and diesel was sold at Rs 68.39. The price of petrol in Noida, Gurugram and Faridabad was Rs 71.44, 70.93 and Rs 71.20, respectively. While diesel traded at Rs 65.67, 65.75 and 65.99 a litre, respectively.

Read More | J-K: Encounter breaks out between terrorists and security forces

With last week's price revision, petrol fell below the Rs 74 per-litre mark for the first time since April as the six-week-long price reduction spree wiped off all of the massive price hikes witnessed in petrol and diesel rates earlier this year. With this, the reduction in rates in last six weeks totals Rs 9.62 per litre on petrol and Rs 7.58 per litre on diesel on Thursday. Rates have been on the decline since October 18. This has wiped off all of the price hike on petrol and diesel in two months beginning August 16. The reduction in diesel rates has been slower due to moderate fall in its benchmark international prices, according to oil company price notifications.

Oil prices slumped to its lowest level in 2018 on Friday after 8 per cent correction in prices. Brent crude oil futures hit their lowest since December 2017 at $59.04 per barrel. On Monday, it witnessed minor bounceback and was trading near $59.50 per barrel mark. The retail selling price of petrol and diesel is dependent on the international prices of benchmark fuel and the rupee-US dollar exchange rate. This is because a large proportion of country's requirement is met through imports.

Petrol price had touched a record high of Rs 84 per litre in Delhi and Rs 91.34 in Mumbai on October 4. Diesel on that day had peaked to an all-time high of Rs 75.45 a litre in Delhi and Rs 80.10 in Mumbai.

Prices had started to climb from August 16. Petrol in Delhi was priced at Rs 77.14 per litre and in Mumbai it cost Rs 84.58 on August 15. Diesel on that day was priced at Rs 68.72 per litre in Delhi and at Rs 72.96 in Mumbai.

Between August 16 and October 4, petrol price was hiked by Rs 6.86 per litre and diesel by Rs 6.73.

Also Read | J-K Governor Satya Pal Malik rules out changing state residency rules, takes a dig at Omar Abdullah

On October 4, the government decided to cut excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 1.50 per litre each and asked state-owned fuel retailers to subsidise the price by another Re 1 a litre by reducing their margins. Subsequent to this, the petrol price came down to Rs 81.50 per litre in Delhi and diesel to Rs 72.95 a litre on October 5. In Mumbai, rates fell to Rs 86.97 per litre for petrol and Rs 77.45 in case of diesel.

Before the price cut, petrol in Delhi had hit an all-time high of Rs 84 per litre while diesel was at record Rs 75.45. This came down to Rs 81.50 per litre for petrol and Rs 72.95 in case of diesel.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

In a sensational claim, former Supreme Court Justice Kurian Joseph, who retired on November 29, said previous Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dipak Misra was working under some influence of an "external source" that impacted the administration of justice. Justice Joseph along with three of the most senior judges of the Supreme Court --Justices J Chelameswar, who has since retired, Ranjan Gogoi, who is the current Chief Justice, and Madan Lokur  hold a press conference against justice Misra on January 12 to flag their concerns about preferential allocation of sensitive cases to judges low down on the top court's hierarchy.

"The then CJI was working under some influence of some external source. He was remote-controlled by an external source. There was some influence of some external source that was impacting the administration of justice," justice Joseph told news agency PTI.

Also Read | No, I don't regret: Justice Kurian Joseph on January 12 press conference

Without elaborating on who the external source was, Justice Joseph there was a perception among the judges that Justice Misra was working under some influence.

On being asked about whether he wants to give reference to any particular case, Justice Joseph said: "I am sorry. I don't want to take it any forward."

The retired judge, however, said the presser had an impact and things started changing for good during the remaining part of justice Misra's tenure as CJI and is now continuing under the stewardship of the justice Gogoi. Misra retired on October 2.

"All issues and changes the four senior judges were thinking at the January 12 press conference were started by CJI Misra and since it is the continuous process, the present CJI Ranjan Gogoi is taking it forward."

He added that the issues which have come now in the public domain are in the context of the same press conference.

A day after his retirement, Justice Joseph had said he had no regrets over the unprecedented January 12 press conference.

"What a strange question you are asking? I never regretted whatever I did, I did it very consciously for a cause and for a cause for which there was no other way left. That was the stage, when we did it," said Joseph on being asked about the press conference.

Also Read | 9 girls missing from Sanskar shelter home, Sisodia suspends officials

According to him, systems and practices in the Supreme Court would take time to change as they have been there for quite long.

When Joseph was asked whether the problem of roster is now over in the apex court, he replied, "Probably that is the one mistake. It is not a question of roster.

"It was question of some unhealthy practice and systems which were followed in the Supreme Court but in the matter of business actually. So, it was against that although roster was one of the issues but there were other issues along with that," he said.

(With PTI inputs)

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

A massive fire broke out in Aarey forest area in suburban Goregaon of north-west Mumbai on Monday, according to reports. The mishap took place around 6:21 pm this evening at an open plot behind Infinity IT Park adjacent to Arun Kumar Vaidya Marg in Goregaon which is in the vicinity of Aarey Colony, the biggest green lung in the metropolis. Several fire engines and two water tankers have been rushed to the spot and put out the flames which escalated to level three by 8:05 pm. However, no casualty has been reported into the incident till late evening.

"Mumbai: Fire breaks out in forest area opposite Gokuldham near Goregaon, firefighting operation underway," the news agency ANI earlier reported.

Mumbai: Fire breaks out in forest area opposite Gokuldham near Goregaon, firefighting operation underway pic.twitter.com/mFLExCvTwi  ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2018

Read | Mumbai: 1 killed after tanker bursts into flames in Wadala

According to fire brigade officials, the fire, which was confined to trees and dry leaves, about 3-4 kilometres of forest was damaged due to the same.

Grieving the loss of the forests, activist Zoru Bhathena said, Although there might be no human casualties but there might be a huge green cover loss. Also, it is likely that there may be many animals and birds stuck in the forest fire. The cause also needs to get investigated as it may be an attempt to encroach the land by later claiming it to be a barren land".

Read | Fire at Chartered Accountants of India building in Delhi

However, Adivasis and cattle were evacuated from the forest area and the disaster control room officials confirmed that no one was stuck in the fire.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

A day ahead of Navy Day on December 4, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba on Monday said that Indian Navy is "overwhelmingly" ahead Pakistan and is more than capable against China in the Indian ocean. Speaking about the possible two front war, Admiral Lanba said that the the Indian Navy has only one front - the Indian Ocean and balance of power in the region rested with Indian Navy.

"As far as the Pakistan Navy is concerned, we are overwhelmingly ahead. For China, we are more than capable in the Indian Ocean. As far as Indian Navy is concerned, we don't have two fronts. We have one and that is Indian Ocean. The balance of power in Indian ocean rest with us," the Navy chief said during his annual press confernece ahead of Navy Day.

Lanba said that the modernisation of the force will be his priority in the next year and in a bid to achieve that, 6 new submarines will be inducted in the Navy's fleet soon. The chief of naval staff said that Navy will try to effectively implement the Centreas Make in India scheme and soon 32 indigenously built ships and warships will be inducted in its fleet.

aVery soon six new submarines will be inducted in the Navy. The trial of new aircraft carrier Vikrant is going on in third and final stage in Kochi and its induction will give a new power to the Navy,a he said adding thatA the strength of the Indian Navy has improved a lot after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.

Admiral Lanba also said that most of the trials of second class scorpion submarine has also been completed and the shortage of naval helicopter fleet is also being addressed with the Light Utility Helicopters. The Navy has ordered the purchase of 24 multi role helicopters under the FMS route.

Speaking about the issue of pirates in the Gulf of Aden, the Navy chief assured Indiaas commitment towards curbing the "global menace". He said that since 2008, 70 Indian naval warships have safely escorted as many as 3440 ships with over 25,000 sailors on board.A So far, the Indian Navy has thwarted 44 piracy attempts and apprehended 120 pirates in multiple operations in the Gulf of Aden, Lanba added.

Meanwhile, Indian navy personnel conducted rehearsal for 'Beating the Retreat' at Gateway of India in Mumbai as part of the Navy Day celebrations on December 4.

Watch Video: Indian navy personnel rehearsal for 'Beating the Retreat' ceremony for Navy Day

#WATCH: Indian Navy rehearses for 'Beating the Retreat', as part of the Navy Day celebrations on December 4, at Gateway of India in Mumbai. (02.12.18) pic.twitter.com/8eFBTLXYnQ a ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2018

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

In a gruesome act, a woman in Uttar Pradeshs Sitapur was burnt alive barely two days after alleged molestation, Police said on Monday. The women was admitted to hospital in critical condition with 40-45 per cent burn injuries. The incident took place on December 1 when two men burnt her alive while she was on her way to the police station to file a complaint.

Two men burnt her alive. She is 40-45% burnt with face and upper body most affected. She was molested on November 29. On December 1, she was burnt alive when she went to washroom.One accused has been arrested, Sujeet Kumar Pandey, IG Lucknow Zone said.

Also Read | Home 'most dangerous' place for women: UN Study

According to the reports, the woman was turned away by the police when she went to Tambor polie state to file an FIR against the accused who molested her. The Uttar Pradesh DGP OP Singh has suspended Tambor SHO Om Prakash Saroj for negligence in supervision and head constable Chedilal for not attending to her complaint.

Meanwhile, the police have arrested one of the accused while the other was still on the run. An investigation has also been initiated against the local police outpost in-charge, Manoj Kumar. If found guilty, stringent action will be taken against him, the DGP assured English daily the Times of India.

On November 29, the accused men, who were brothers, passed indecent comments on the victim while she was going to her in-laws house in a nearby village. However, the woman somehow get away from the scene and reached Tambor police station to lodge a complaint. But the police personnel on duty - head constable Chedilal - sent her home without registering an FIR. She then reached her in-laws house and narrated her ordeal.

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On this, her family called UP polices helpline number 100 and informed them about the incident. A PCR cab reached her home and advised her to register a written complaint at the Tambor police station. Next day, when she was going to the Tambor police station for the second time to register a written complaint, the accused intercepted her and set her ablaze.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Meghan Markle and Kate Middletons rumoured feud has reportedly escalated. According to reports, the battle between the two royal parties has forced Meghan Markle and Prince Harry to spend away from Kate and William. This new report of a rift in the royal household has come just days after Kate had reportedly shut Meghan up after she was rude to her staffs. Kate, who is the Duchess of Cambridge, reportedly told Meghan, "Thats unacceptable, theyre my staff and I speak to them." This was the first instance when the two fell out.



According to British Tabloid reports, the rift between Meghan and Kate is believed to have started even before Meghans wedding in May. A number of detrimental stories have recently appeared in the UK press that has focused on a growing hostility between the Duchess of Sussex, 37, and the Duchess of Cambridge, 36.

Also Read | Einstein God Letter of 1954 to be auctioned



feuds are however no new occurrence in the royal household. Last year, Prince Harry had reportedly accused Kate and Prince William of not being welcoming enough to Meghan. Prince William was reported to have tried to break the ice by arranging an invitation to be sent to Meghan and Harry to spend with them at their country home near Sandringham, Anmer Hall, which didnt work.



With the feud between the two parties happening all over again, the British tabloids issued a statement saying that Prince Harry and Meghan are to spend their away from the Cambridge couple so as to avoid the similar situation.

Also Read | Travelling the misty mountain road to abundance in Dhanaulti



As of now, Meghan and Harry will be spending their with the Queen at Sandringham while William and Kate will join the Middleton family at Bucklebury Manor in Berkshire instead. The Royal household, however, has dismissed the rumours stating that the House of Sussex and the House of Cambridge will spend day together with the Queen.New Delhi:

Akshay Kumar's 2018 movie, Padman awoke millions of women and men alike to break free from the taboo of menstruation and the need for menstrual hygiene. The movie, which was a source of inspiration for all, was a hit even among the social sphere and public figures took to social media posting pictures themselves with a pad on one hand in what they call #PadManChallenge, spreading the awareness even further. And this chain of inspiration proved very much alive as a 13-year-old Dubai-based girl is said to have adopted 250 girls from rural Maharashtra and donated sanitary napkins to them.



According to reports, the 13 year-old girl, Riva Tulpule, is said to have been inspired by the movie Padman, a biopic based on Arunachalam Muruganantham who was said to have devised low cost sanitary pads for women in rural areas villages.

Also Read | You can now buy a bottle of fresh air for Delhi's air pollution



Riva Tulpule, whose family hails from Maharashtra managed to collect funds for the cause in Dubai in the last few months. Around Diwali time, Riva appealed to people in Dubai to donate money for the cause and within a short span, she managed enough sum to buy sanitary pads for 250 girls, she said.



She is said to have flown down to India last week and distributed about one-year stock of sanitary pads to girls from schools in Sahapur taluka on .



"I saw Padman some months back and came to know about problems faced by girls during the days of their periods. I immediately decided to do something for girls living in villages in India, specially Maharashtra," she said.



The Class 8 student said she also discussed her idea with Konkan Graduate's constituency MLC Niranjan Davkhare during his visit to Dubai, and he encouraged her to take it forward.

Also Read | Soon, travel Mumabi to UAE with this underwater train!



The napkins were distributed by the teenager at a function organised by Davkhare's NGO 'Samanvay Pratishthan', which works for social causes.

"Riva Tulpule a 8th Standard student from Dubai, this Diwali decided to do something special & took up an initiative to adopt 250 girls from rural Maharashtra and support them with full year of Sanitary Pads....," the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator said in a tweet.New Delhi:

Egyptian actress, Rania Youssef is facing trial next month for what a group of lawyers call indecent exposure in public. According to reports, the actor has been charged with public obscenity and will be facing trail next month. News of charges against the Egyptian actor came when she was seen attending the closing ceremony of a film festival in Cairo wearing a see-through embroidered gauze dress that revealed the entirety of her legs.



According to reports, three lawyers have accused the actor of public exposure inciting debauchery and temptation and spreading vice in ways that violate established norms in Egyptian society.

Also Read | You can now buy a bottle of fresh air for Delhi's air pollution



While the actor faces trail charges, accusation against her remains divided. Some defended the popular Egyptian actor saying that she can wear what she chooses to while others took a reverse approach by calling her names. One Twitter user wrote, This dress and design is called I forgot my trousers while going to be honoured. Another Twitter user commented, Rania Youssef is looking gorgeous. He wrote in a message in English. I dont get why everybody is mad at her.



Youssef had just finished shooting for the film Aswar Aaliya (High Fences), in which she plays the role of a famous artist who is sent to prison.



This is, however, not the first-time public figures have come under scrutiny of the masses. In 2016, author Ahmed Naji was handed a two-year prison sentence after being charged with obscenity for publishing a book with references to sex and drugs.

Also Read | Soon, travel Mumabi to UAE with this underwater train!



Egypt as part of an Arab country is vastly dominated by the Muslim majority which so to say have a more conservative approach in regards to their customs and traditions. And despite the growing spread of secularism, the country still maintains the remnants of the older religious conservatism. Youssefs case once again serves a reminder that Islamic fundamentalism still pervades society five years after an Islamist president was ousted by the military.



Rania Youssefs trial is scheduled to begin on . And if found guilty, the 30-year-old actor might have to serve up to five years behind bars.

For all the Latest Offbeat News News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Tokyo:

Rings of gas surrounding supermassive black holes are not simple donut shapes, but dynamic fountains of gaseous matter, according to a study that may prompt re-writing of astronomy textbooks.

Based on computer simulations and new observations from the Atacama Large Millimetre/submillimetre Array (ALMA) in Chile, researchers have concluded that the gas expelled from the centre interacts with infalling gas to create a dynamic circulation pattern similar to fountains.

Most galaxies host a supermassive black hole, millions or billions of times as heavy as the Sun, in their centres.

Some of these black holes swallow material quite actively. However, astronomers have believed that rather than falling directly into the black hole, matter instead builds up around the active black hole forming a donut structure.

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Takuma Izumi, a researcher at the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ), led a team of astronomers that used ALMA to observe the supermassive black hole in the Circinus Galaxy located 14 million light-years away from the Earth in the direction of the constellation Circinus.

The team then compared their observations to a computer simulation of gas falling towards a black hole made with the Cray XC30 ATERUI supercomputer operated by NAOJ.

This comparison revealed that the presumptive donut is not actually a rigid structure, but instead a complex collection of highly dynamic gaseous components.

First, cold molecular gas falling towards the black hole forms a disk near the plane of rotation. As it approaches the black hole, this gas is heated until the molecules break down into the component atoms and ions.

Some of these atoms are then expelled above and below the disk, rather than being absorbed by the black hole. This hot atomic gas falls back onto the disk creating a turbulent three dimensional structure.

These three components circulate continuously, similar to a water fountain in a city park.

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Previous theoretical models set a priori assumptions of rigid donuts, said Keiichi Wada, a theoretician at Kagoshima University in Japan, who lead the simulation study and is a member of the research team.

Rather than starting from assumptions, our simulation started from the physical equations and showed for the first time that the gas circulation naturally forms a donut, Wada.

By investigating the motion and distribution of both the cold molecular gas and warm atomic gas with ALMA, we demonstrated the origin of the so-called donut structure around active black holes, said Izumi.

Based on this discovery, we need to rewrite the astronomy textbooks, he said.

For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Dubai:

Scientists have developed a simple device that can capture water from thin air, and release it when warmed by sunlight.

The advance could provide a secure new source of drinking water in remote arid regions, researchers said.

Globally, Earths air contains almost 13 trillion tonnes of water, a vast renewable reservoir of clean drinking water.

Trials of many materials and devices developed to tap this water source have shown each to be either too inefficient, expensive or complex for practical use.

Also Read | Russian space agency set to launch first manned mission since Soyuz failure today

The prototype device, developed by researchers at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia, makes use of a cheap, stable, nontoxic salt, calcium chloride.

The salt has high affinity for water and will absorb so much vapour from the surrounding air that eventually a pool of liquid forms, said Renyuan Li, a PhD student at KAUST.

The deliquescent salt can dissolve itself by absorbing moisture from air, he said.

Calcium chloride has great water-harvesting potential, but the fact it turns from a solid to a salty liquid after absorbing water has been a major hurdle for its use as a water capture device, said Li.

To overcome the problem, the researchers incorporated the salt into a hydrogel which can hold a large volume of water while remaining a solid.

They also added a small amount of carbon nanotubes, 0.42 per cent by weight, to ensure the captured water vapour could be released.

Carbon nanotubes very efficiently absorb sunlight and convert the captured energy into heat.

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The team incorporated 35 grammes of this material into a simple prototype device. Left outside overnight, it captured 37 grammes of water on a night when the relative humidity was around 60 per cent.

The following day, after 2.5 hours of natural sunlight irradiation, most of the water was released and collected inside the device.

The hydrogels most notable aspects are its high performance and low cost, said Li.

If the prototype were scaled up to produce 3 litres of water per daythe minimum water requirement for an adultthe material cost of the adsorbent hydrogel would be as low as half a cent per day.

The next step will be to fine tune the absorbent hydrogel so that it releases harvested water continuously rather than in batches, Wang said.

For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

The first manned space mission to the International Space Station with three human space travellers, including two astronauts is set to launch in Kazakhstan on Monday.

Three Exp 58 crew members are less than one day from launch to the station. (From left) Anne McClain, Oleg Kononenko and David Saint-Jacques blast off Monday at 6:31am ET to their new home in space. Live @NASA TV coverage begins at 5:30am. https://t.co/yuOTrYN8CV pic.twitter.com/v47u449CYH  Intl. Space Station (@Space_Station) December 2, 2018

Astronauts heading to the International Space Station in a Soyuz rocket for the first time since its emergency landing in October say they are physically and psychologically prepared.

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The first mission failed raised concerns about Moscows Soviet-designed spacecraft, however, Russias Rocosmos space agency has confirmed that the previous aborted mission was caused by a faulty sensor.

Risk is part of our profession. And we are psychologically and technically prepared for blastoff and any situation which, God forbid, may occur on board, Crew commander Oleg Kononenko said.

Kononenko added that the crew would contact a spacewalk on December 11 as part of an investigation into a mysterious hole that has caused an air leak on the ISS.

The 54-year-old Cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko will lead astronauts Anne McClain of the NASA and David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency when they blast off to their new home in space from its launchpad Baikonur Cosmodrome.

Three space travelers, including two astronauts on their first flight, are set to launch to the @Space_Station on Monday, Dec. 3 for a six-and-a-half month mission. Live coverage begins at 5:30am ET. Details: https://t.co/LIablTB2et pic.twitter.com/bKYoz2UA7w  NASA (@NASA) December 3, 2018

Of the trio set to reach the ISS six hours after blastoff, both Saint-Jacques and McClain will fly for the first time, while Kononenko has already logged 533 days in space and Mondays trip will be his fourth mission.

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According to the Russian space agency, the launch had originally been scheduled for December 20 following the Soyuz mission failed, however, the current crew on the ISS needs to return on the earth.

The original plan was the current crew will return in the middle of December and the next one will replace it shortly afterwards. In order to avoid shifting the ISS to an unmanned mode the industry is exerting considerable efforts to make the launch possible on December 3, Rocosmos executive director Sergei Krikalyov said.

Ahead of Mondays launch, a Russian Orthodox priest blessed the spaceship on its launchpad, in accordance with tradition, while the crew spoke calmly of the dangers involved.

NASAs astronaut McClain, 39, also a colonel in the US Army said the crew looked forward to going up.

We feel very ready for it, McClain said.

Canadas Saint-Jacques, 48, described the Soyuz spacecraft as incredibly safe.

The accident highlighted the smart design of the Soyuz and the incredible work that the search and rescue people here on the ground are ready to do every launch, Saint-Jacques said.

(With inputs from agencies)

For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Albert Einsteins famous handwritten 'God letter' is expected to be put up for auction in New York on . According to reports, the letter where the Nobel Prize physicist is supposedly believed to have penned down his battle of conscience surrounding the concept of religion and his own Jewish faith is reported to fetch somewhere around $1.5 million.



The 1-1/2 page letter, written in German to philosopher Eric Gutkind, is regarded by many as Einsteins clearest account that flips and turns his views in the universal search for the meaning of life.



Christies auctioneers said on Thursday that the so-called God Letter, which was sold by a private collector would be placed on public exhibit in San Francisco and New York ahead of the auction.

Also Read | 13-year-old teen provides sanitary pads to underprivileged girls



In the letter, Einstein did not exclude the religion to which he was born into-Judaism. But, he, at the same time also wrote that he did not believe in the radical claim that Judaism was chosen above others, like most religion themselves claim.



He wrote, For me the unadulterated Jewish religion is, like all other religions, an incarnation of primitive superstition. And the Jewish people to whom I gladly belong, and in whose mentality I feel profoundly anchored, still for me does not have any different kind of dignity from all other peoples. As far as my experience goes, they are in fact no better than other human groups, even if they are protected from the worst excesses by a lack of power. Otherwise I cannot perceive anything chosen about them.

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The word God is for me nothing but the expression and product of human weaknesses, the Bible a collection of venerable but still rather primitive legends. No interpretation, no matter how subtle, can (for me) change anything about this, Einstein wrote.



Peter Klarnet, a books and manuscripts specialist at Christies, said the letter concerns themes that have been central to human enquiry since the dawn of human consciousness, and it is one of the definitive statements in the Religion vs Science debate.



Christies placed a $1 million to $1.5 million estimate on the letter.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

US President Donald Trump is likely to meet North Koreas leader Kim Jong-un in early 2019 and it will be a follow-up to their historic summit at Singapore in June this year, sources said.

Trump said on Saturday that he hoped to organise a second summit with the North Korean leader in early 2019, perhaps as early as either on January or February, following talks with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Buenos Aires.

Were getting along very well. We have a good relationship, Trump said.

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President Trump also said that at some point he will invite the North Korean leader to the United States.

According to South Koreas president Moon, Trump will grant North Koreas leader his wishes if he delivers on denuclearisation.

And the message was that President Trump has a very friendly view of Chairman Kim and that he likes him, and so he wishes Chairman Kim would implement the rest of their agreement and that he would make what Chairman Kim wants come true, South Korean President Moon said.

An official work to arrange a second meeting between Trump and Kim has already begun and three sites for another meeting are under consideration, according to sources report.

In June, Trump and Kim signed a vaguely worded document on denuclearisation in their historic meet at Singapore, but progress since stalled as Washington and Pyongyang are sparring over the exact meaning of the agreement, said the sources.

Read More | No direct links of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jamal Khashoggis murder: US State Secretary Mike Pompeo

US officials insist on the complete, verified and irreversible denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula before sanctions are lifted.

The North has rejected demands for what it calls unilateral disarmament and has instead sought unspecified reciprocal US measures in a gradual process.

Differences also remain between Washington and Seoul on how to proceed with Kim, as the dovish Moon favours more robust engagement with the North.

North and South Korea have begun to remove landmines and destroy military bunkers at parts of their common border as part of efforts to improve long-strained relations.

(With inputs from agencies)

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

In a big setback to President Maithripala Sirisena, a Sri Lankan court on Monday barred Mahinda Rajapaksa from acting as Prime Minister. Sirisena had appointed his former rival, Rajapaksa, in place of Ranil Wickremesinghe in a controversial decision that sparked a constitutional crisis in the county.

The Court of Appeal temporary halted Rajapaksa and his Cabinet from functioning in their positions in response to a case filed by 122 legislators against the disputed government. The court will next hear the case on December 12 and 13.

"According to the interim relief, Rajapaksa and his disputed government have been prevented from acting as PM, cabinet and deputy ministers," said a lawyer, who was present at the hearing.

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He added that the court was of the opinion that "irreparable damage" could be caused if persons not entitled to do so sit as prime minister and cabinet ministers.

More than 120 parliamentarians of Wickeremesinghe's United National Party, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and Tamil National Alliance last month filed a petition in the Court of Appeal challenging Rajapaksa's authority as the prime minister.

Sri Lanka was plunged into a political crisis after Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26 and replaced him with Rajapaksa. Wickremesinghe, who dubbed the move as a "constitutional coup", refused to vacate his official residence, saying he was the lawful prime minister and that the president has no constitutional right to replace him.

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His request for a floor test to prove his majority in the House has been turned down. He cited the 19th amendment to the Constitution in which the president has been barred from sacking a prime minister or dissolving parliament before the expiry of its four and a half years term. After Wickremesinghe's sacking, Sirisena suspended parliament until November 16.

On November 9, Sirisena dissolved parliament, paving the way for a general election to be held on January 5, nearly two years ahead of its time. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisenas decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls.

Prior to the crisis, Wickramasinghes UNP had the backing of 106 parliamentarians, while Rajapaksa and Sirisena combine had 95 seats.

Rajapaksa has, so far, failed to prove his majority in Parliament.

(With PTI inputs)

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Singapore:

Oil prices soared on Monday after Russia and Saudi Arabia renewed a pact to cap output, while the US agreed to halt raising tariffs on Chinese imports, stalling a trade row that many feared could hit demand for the commodity.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday he and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have agreed to extend our agreement to limit production as prices slump on global markets.

An existing deal committing OPEC and non-members to cuts expires this year.

While there was no announcement on how much would be cut and for how long, the pact between the worlds two biggest crude exporters was cheered by oil traders, with Brent jumping $2.42 to $53.35 and West Texas Intermediate up $2.60 at $62.06 on Monday.

Also Read | Qatar to quit OPEC in 2019: Energy minister

There was a slight paring of prices after Qatar announced it would be leaving OPEC next year as it looks to concentrate on its gas production, though it would continue to pump crude. The country contributes a fraction of the entire output from the group.

While we still need to know by how much OPEC will curb its production, Putins comment does clear a barrier for OPEC in stabilizing prices as Russia has been ambiguous about its stance, Ahn Yea Ha, a commodities analyst at Kiwoom Securities told Bloomberg News.

Both main contracts have plunged by about a third since hitting four-year highs at the start of October, hit by a number of factors including easing demand, high production, softer-than-expected US sanctions on Iran and a global growth slowdown.

Another major reason for the sell-off has been the ongoing trade row between China and the US, which has seen the worlds top economies swap tariffs on imports worth hundreds of billions of dollars fuelling fears about the impact globally.

However, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping on Saturday announced a deal that will see the US hold off raising levies on Chinese goods on January 1 and China promise to buy more from the US, while entering a 90-day period of talks to bring an end to the dispute.

Read More | Asia stocks in relief rally after China-US deal

Traders are now looking ahead to a weekend meeting of OPEC and key non-OPEC members in Vienna, where they will make an announcement on their cuts plans.

Most analysts expect a cut of around one million barrels per day, but some say this may not be enough to arrest the decline in prices.

Its a huge week not only for oil markets but capital markets in general, said Stephen Innes, head of Asia-Pacific trade at OANDA.

Post-G20 sentiment is a bit more positive than expected but still very much work in progress, so perhaps the most crucial event in December next to (Britains) Brexit vote could very well be the OPEC summit.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Doha:

Qatar is to leave OPEC next month in order for the Gulf state to focus on gas production, Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi announced on Monday. Qatar has decided to withdraw its membership from OPEC effective January 2019, Kaabi said at a Doha press conference.

He added that Qatar would still continue to produce oil but would concentrate on gas production, where it is the biggest exporter of liquified natural gas in the world.

We dont have great potential (in oil), we are very realistic. Our potential is gas," al-Kaabi said.

In light of such efforts and plans, and in our pursuit to strengthen Qatars position as a reliable and trustworthy energy supplier across the globe, we had to take steps to review Qatars role and contributions on the international energy scene, al-Kaabi said in a statement.

Read More | US Senate Kamala Harris to decide presidential bid over the holiday

Kaabi said that OPEC, which Qatar joined in 1961, was told of the decision on Monday ahead of the announcement.

The organisation is dominated by oil-rich Saudi Arabia, which since June 2017 has led a bloc of countries in imposing a blockade on Qatar.

The surprise announcement from Qatars minister of state for energy affairs, Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, again throws into question the role of the cartel after needing non-members to push through a production cut in 2016 after prices crashed below $30 a barrel. It also marks the first time a Mideast nation has left the cartel since its founding in 1960.

There was no immediate comment from Vienna-based OPEC, which is to meet this month and discuss possible production cuts.

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Qatar, a country of 2.6 million people where citizens make up over 10 per cent of the population, discovered the offshore North Field in 1971, the same year it became independent.

It took years for engineers to discover the fields vast reserves, which shot Qatar to No 3 in world rankings, behind Russia and Iran, with which it shares the North Field.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Riyadh:

A UN plane will evacuate 50 wounded Huthi militants from Yemens rebel-held capital Sanaa on Monday as a confidence building measure ahead of planned peace talks in Sweden, a Saudi-led military coalition said.

A UN chartered plane will arrive at Sanaa international airport Monday to evacuate 50 wounded combatants... three Yemeni doctors and a UN doctor, from Sanaa to Muscat, a coalition spokesman said in a statement carried by the official Saudi Press Agency.

The fate of wounded rebels had been a stumbling block to the start of a previous round of aborted peace talks in September.

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The coalition agreed to facilitate the medical evacuations at the request of UN envoy Martin Griffiths for humanitarian reasons and as a confidence building measure, the spokesman added.

Huthi rebels on Thursday said they will attend UN-brokered peace talks in Sweden this week if guarantees to ensure they can leave home and return back are maintained.

Yemens internationally recognised government, which is also backed by a Saudi-led coalition, has already said it would attend the planned talks in Sweden.

Griffiths has held talks separately in the past few days with officials from both sides as part of efforts to lay the ground work for the peace talks.

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In September, a previous round of UN-led talks failed when the Huthis refused to travel to Geneva, accusing the world body of failing to guarantee their delegations return to Sanaa or secure the evacuation of wounded rebels to Oman.

Previous talks broke down in 2016, when 108 days of negotiations in Kuwait failed to yield a deal and left rebel delegates stranded in Oman for three months.

According to UN figures, nearly 10,000 people have been killed since the coalition joined the conflict in 2015 to bolster Hadi, triggering what the UN calls the worlds worst humanitarian crisis.

Rights groups fear the actual toll is far higher.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

Democratic Senator Kamala Harris has announced to make a decision about a potential 2020 US presidential bid over the holiday, said sources.

Whether to run for president in 2020, it will ultimately be a family decision. And over the holiday, I will make that decision with my family, said Harris, according to The Politico.

I think Americans want in their next leader someone who will be honest, speak truth, who will have a vision for our country that is unburdened by what weve been, but instead can see who we can be. And they want in their leader someone who will paint a picture of the future in which everyone can see themselves, Harris said.

Also Read | World Bank unveils $200 billion in 2021-25 climate action investment

According to sources reports, the California senator is one of the few Democrats eyeing to contest against President Donald Trump in 2020.

A former prosecutor and state attorney general, Harris has risen in the political limelight since her election to the Senate in 2016.

Harris winning in 2016 as Senator made history as both the first African-American woman to represent California in the Senate and as the first Indian-American Senator in the United States, it said.

Other possible candidates include Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, Cory Booker of New Jersey, and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota. Former Vice President Joe Biden has also garnered speculation as to whether he would make a bid for the White House.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.New Delhi:

The World Bank on Monday unveiled $200 billion in climate action investment for 2021-25, doubling its current five-year funding in support for countries to take ambitious climate change action.

BREAKING NEWSaY @WorldBank releases a new action plan designed to boost climate adaptation and resilience to climate shocks in the worlds poorest countries aY https://t.co/tKKh6YyKKF #AdaptationMatters #2025WBG #COP24 pic.twitter.com/xzfLfIbw7b  World Bank Climate (@WBG_Climate) December 3, 2018

The World Bank said the move, coinciding with a UN climate summit meeting of some 200 nations in Poland, represented a significantly ramped up ambition to tackle climate change, sending an important signal to the wider global community to do the same.

The Washington based organisation also said that half of the amount would come directly from the World Bank itself, while the rest would be sourced from other institutions within the group and private capital.

Also Read | Trump likely to meet North Koreas leader Kim Jong-un early 2019

The breakdown of the $ 200 billion would comprise approximately $100 billion in direct finance from the World Bank, the international financial institution said in a statement.

Around $50 billion would be earmarked for climate adaptation and resilience, according to the World Bank, a recognition that some adverse effects of global warming that cant be avoided anymore but require a change in practice in tackling the grave issue.

By ramping up direct adaptation finance to reach around $50 billion over (fiscal) 21-25, the World Bank will, for the first time, give this equal emphasis alongside investments that reduce emissions, the bank stated.

Climate change is an existential threat to the worlds poorest and most vulnerable. These new targets demonstrate how seriously we are taking this issue, investing and mobilizing $200 billion over five years to combat climate change, World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim said.

We are pushing ourselves to do more and to go faster on climate and we call on the global community to do the same. This is about putting countries and communities in charge of building a safer, more climate-resilient future, Kim said.

Read More | Taliban abduct 40 passengers in Afghanistan's Samangan province

If we dont reduce emissions and build adaptation now, well have 100 million more people living in poverty by 2030, John Roome, World Bank senior director for climate change, warned.

Roome also said that in the 2018 fiscal year, running from July 2017 to June this year, the World Bank had committed $20.5 billion to climate action, compared with an annual average of $13.5 billion for the 2014-2018 period.

Given the urgency to act in the face of sea level rise, flooding and drought we must fight the causes, but also adapt to the consequences that are often most dramatic for the worlds poorest people, said World Bank CEO Kristalina Georgieva.

The announcement comes when world leaders are meeting in the Poland city of Katowice at UN talks on tackling climate change and global warming.

(With inputs from agencies)

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 3)  The military and police will recommend to President Rodrigo Duterte another extension of martial law in Mindanao for at least one year.

Gen. Carlito Galvez, Armed Forces chief, on Monday said they based their recommendation on continuous bombings in parts of the South and public clamor for military rule in the region.

Martial law in Mindanao will be in effect until December 31, but Galvez said the possible third extension is necessary to make a "substantially significant dent on terrorism."

"We have recommendations already... Because there is really a great clamor for the extension, considering that the terrorism is still lurking in the area. There is really need to constrict, limit the maneuver space of the terrorist to the maximum," he told defense reporters.

But Duterte, in a speech Monday, said he's yet to come up with a decision on the possible extension.

"The papers have not yet been submitted to me. It might be during the Cabinet (meeting)," Duterte told reporters in a chance interview.

The country's chief executive reiterated he will base his decision on the personnel on the ground.

"It would depend on the recommendation of the military and police. They are the guys on the ground. I'm not aware of the nitty gritty happenings all over the country," Duterte added.

Galvez said they have yet to submit their recommendation to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. He said the recommendation may be presented during his retirement on December 12.

Director General Oscar Albayalde, Philippine National Police chief, on Monday also said the recommendation for an extension has been drafted.

"Alam ko meron na kaming recommendation that we are for the extension especially so, the upcoming election and the plebiscite. We are one with the Armed Forces of the Philippines. We are for the extension," he said in a separate media briefing.

House Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo earlier said she will be behind the extension, while Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III challenged the AFP to present the supposed "gains" earned while Mindanao was under martial law.

Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III said the Congress should be properly briefed before voting on granting the extension.

"Dapat kung mayroon mang request for extension, there should be a briefing. Bakit justified pa after one year and seven months? Truth be told, kapag ako naman ay nagtatanog sa mga kapwa ko taga-Mindanao, wala akong naririnig na violent o vehement objection against martial law. Open pa nga yung iba eh. Pero from the point of view of the legislator who will give his consent, kailangan po i-briefing naman kami to know of the justification," he said.

(Translation: There should be a briefing if there's a request for extension. Why is it still justified after a year and seven months? Truth be told, when I asked my fellow people from Mindanao, I haven't heard any violent or vehement objection against martial law. Others are even open. But from the point of view of the legislator who will give his consent, we need briefing for us to know of the justification.)

Martial law has been in place in Mindanao for a year and seven months, after Congress granted Duterte's request for an extension twice to quell threats of rebellion amid efforts to rehabilitate Marawi City. Marawi is the provincial capital of Lanao del Sur that was the battleground of terrorists and government forces in May to October 2017. More than a thousand were killed, mostly terrorists.

Some human rights groups claim the military committed human rights violations during the implementation of martial law. Malacanang and the armed forces vowed to investigate these alleged abuses, but noted that no formal complaint has been filed.

Solons warn vs. extended martial law

The militant Makabayan Bloc opposed the AFP's recommendation. Bayan Muna Partylist Carlos Zarate warned that putting the military in control of Mindanao much longer will lead to more human rights abuses.

He cited the recent detention of ACT Teachers Partylist Representative France Castro and former Congressman Satur Ocampo for alleged kidnapping and human trafficking as proof that the military is abusing martial law.

"Malinaw na itong panukala na i-extend na naman ang martial law sa Mindanao, ito ay magbubunsod ng mas marami pang paglabag sa karapatang pantao. At sa katunayan, kung papabayaan natin ang militar at pulis, hindi na lang Mindanao ang gusto nilang ilagay sa batas militar kundi ang buong bansa na," he said in a media briefing.

(Translation: It's clear that this recommendation to extend martial law in Mindanao will create more human rights violations. In fact, if we allow the military and police, they would place not only Mindanao, but the entire country under martial law.)

Zarate warned extending martial law anew might embolden the AFP to ask Duterte to widen its scope nationwide.

Galvez also assured the public martial law will not be expanded nationwide. Duterte on November 22 ordered the deployment of more police and military personnel in parts of southern Luzon and the Visayas to prevent what it called "lawless violence" from "spreading and escalating elsewhere in the country."

Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano said the government should only use martial law for emergencies and for temporary cases. He also warned of security and economic implications of another extension.

"The mere fact that there is a clamor for its extension means the normal security forces are ineffective in countering terrorism. On the other hand, from an economic perspective, extending martial law will drive away existing and potential investors and businesses," he said.

The former soldier urged the Duterte administration to approach the problem of insurgency by hearing out the insurgent groups.

CNN Philippines senior correspondent David Santos contributed to this report.BROOKFIELD  Officials hope new regulations on drive-thrus will help foster development downtown.

The Zoning Commission passed late last week the regulations, which require developers to apply for a special permit if they want a drive-thru.

Drive-thrus already exist downtown, but Brookfield did not have regulations on these establishments in the Town Center District.

With the new regulations, the owner of Dunkin plans to apply to move his store down Federal Road into the property where the Hearth Restaurant used to be.

Neil Marcus, attorney for the Dunkin owner, said this is a better location for the store, adding the move would bolster the towns efforts to revitalize the downtown.

At that point, we can move forward with the project, which I think will be quite in line with the spirit of the redevelopment of the Town Center District, he said at a meeting late last week.

The town is working on a multiphase project to add sidewalks, parking, crosswalks and more downtown with the aim of attracting developers and making the area pedestrian friendly.

Still, some residents remained concerned that drive-thrus contradict this mission.

If youre going to allow drive-thrus, youre basically saying, We dont care if you walk through the area, resident Rich Saluga said at the meeting. You can just drive through, get your product and keep going. That doesnt seem to jive with the idea of pedestrian access or a pedestrian-friendly area.

But Greg Dembowski, who is in charge of the streetscape project, said he supported the regulations.

Its a great thing for Brookfield, he said.

Commission member Curtis Timmerman added drive-thrus are helpful for the elderly and parents with small children.

There's got to be some accommodation for people who are stuck in their car and physically cant get out, he said.

The regulations require drive-thrus to sit on a 40,000-square-foot lot at minimum. The lot also must have frontage on a state highway and be south of the intersection of Federal Road and Route 25.

The lot size requirement, in particular, would keep pedestrians safe because cars would have more room to line up, Timmerman said.

You mitigate the danger, he said.

This is not the only rule change coming down the pike.

The commission is also considering a major rewrite of all zoning regulations.

The commission could vote at its next meeting on this update, which is meant to simplify the regulations.

During the final public hearing on the proposal, residents gave feedback on parking restrictions, among other potential changes.

But whatever the commission decides, the new regulations should make life easier for developers, Jim Fisher, chairman of the Economic Development Commission, said.

For years, Ive heard coming to Brookfield is a nightmare, he said at the meeting. Lets get rid of that stigma attached to the town. Lets try to make it so when a developer comes, theyre like, Holy crap, these guys want to help me develop this property. They dont want to torture me. I would beg you guys to do that.DANBURY  The death of a homeless man this weekend was a stark reminder for advocates of the challenges in helping the homeless.

David Mullen, 56, died after falling into the Still River near Crosby Street. Police believe he had been living in a makeshift camp near the former News-Times building on Main Street.

Its a black mark on our city, said Lynn Taborsak, a volunteer with Dorothy Day Hospitality House in Danbury.

Taborsak said she knew Mullen well. He was friendly, gregarious, she said. Just down on his luck.

Taborsak said she did not know how he became homeless.

Its just an awful place to try to live if you dont have enough income, she said.

Taborsak said Mullen is the first homeless person to die in the elements in the city since a man named Francisco died on a cold night in March 2014.

This is a tragedy, Mayor Mark Boughton said. Well stay vigilant in trying to get those folks into the programs that are available to them.

There are beds available throughout the city for those in need of shelter. Good Samaritan Mission has 14 beds for men, the city has its own shelter, Dorothy Day has 16 beds and its overflow shelter at the First Congregational Church of Danbury has 20 beds. Dorothy Day also serves food to clients.

The homeless can also go to the Dream Homes Community Center to be connected with resources that often help them get off the street, Boughton said.

Its really a combination of managing people who are on the street and really working with our nonprofit partners to get those folks into a program, he said. Once we latch them into a program theres a decent success rate.

Joe Simons, another volunteer with Dorothy Day, said Mullen came to the shelter three times this year  on Aug. 21, Oct. 28 and Nov. 1. These were his only recorded stays at the shelter over the last three years, Simons said.

Certainly, if he would have been there longer, we would have taken steps to at least make sure that he connected with someone who could help him on a more long-term basis, Simons said.

He said those that stay at the shelter are hooked up with resources through the states Coordinated Access Network, where providers work together to find housing and assistance for the homeless.

But when people do not go to the shelter frequently, it is difficult to get them help, Simons said.

If theyre going to stay at our shelter for any period of time, they need to engage in services, he said. That's the way it works through our coordinated access process. Thats a requirement.

Boughton said the city is good at helping people who have become homeless in an emergency, but assisting those who are chronically homeless is more challenging.

A person is considered chronically homeless if he or she has not had a home for a long time or are repeatedly homeless. These people often have a disability or physical and mental health problems, according to the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness.

Boughton estimated there are about 25 to 30 chronically homeless people living in Danbury.

Like any city, we struggle with those chronically homeless individuals because many of them dont come for help, he said.

The Rev. Pat Kriss, the pastor at First Congregational Church of Danbury, said some people avoid shelters, often because they are scared or have mental health issues.

Theyre afraid of shelters because theyve had bad experiences in other shelters, not necessarily in Danbury, she said. They think theyd rather stay outside.

Kriss said many of the people who come to the churchs shelter are from the city.

There is a misconception that these are people who are drifters, who came into town, she said. These are very often the children, grandchildren of families who have lived in Danbury for a long time.

Taborsak said the city needs more beds to shelter the homeless. She estimated Dorothy Day has to turn away as many as four to five people a night.

Thats not OK, she said.

Taborsak added organizations need to better coordinate to develop a policy where they do not turn away anyone.

When someone is turned away at Dorothy Day, he or she goes to the overflow shelter at the First Congregational Church of Danbury. Kriss said the shelters 20 beds often fill up, especially on cold nights.

You get a blizzard and there arent enough beds because everyone has got to come in, she said. Those are the times we look the other way because if you put people out theyre going to die.

Once on a 5-degree day, Kriss said she saw a man lying on the concrete floor at the bottom of the church stairs, trying to keep warm until the shelter opened six hours later.

We take care of the extreme need for overnight, but there is always the question of where do people go during the day? she said.

Simons said it is difficult to say what resources are needed to better help the homeless.

Obviously, if there is a lot more money available, things would be different, he said. Its hard to say what could be done given the constraints that everyone is under.Qatar announced on Monday it would withdraw from OPEC because it wants to increase production more than Saudi Arabia will permit.

This would be the first Mideast member to leave. Only Indonesia has ever left in the past. OPEC started in 1960.

In a statement, al-Kaabi said Qatar, the worlds largest exporter of liquified natural gas, planned to increase its exports from 77 million tons of gas per year to 110 million tons. He also said Qatar wants to raise its oil production from 4.8 million barrels of oil equivalent a day to 6.5 million barrels.

Qatar is the worlds largest exporter of liquified natural gas. They plan to increase its exports of liquified natural gas from 77 million tons of gas per year to 110 million tons. Qatar wants to raise its oil production from 4.8 million barrels of oil equivalent a day to 6.5 million barrels.

Qatar has a population of 2.6 million people.

Between 5 and 6 June 2017, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Yemen, Egypt, the Maldives, and Bahrain all separately announced that they were cutting diplomatic ties with Qatar. Saudi Arabia and the UAE notified ports and shipping agents not to receive Qatari vessels or ships owned by Qatari companies or individuals. Saudi Arabia closed the border with Qatar. Saudi Arabia restricted its airspace to Qatar Airways.

Saudi statements regarding Qatar were contradictory. They claimed Qatar was supporting Iran and also claimed Qatar was funding Sunni extremists fighting against Iran.South Korea successfully launched a locally developed 75-ton space rocket engine which is comparable to a SpaceX Falcon 1. The orbital rocket KSLV-II (Korea Satellite Launch Vehicle) is also known as Nuri. The rocket is 25.8 meters tall and has a diameter of 2.6 meters and weighs more than 52 tons.

South Korean media did not discuss it but Ukrainian engineers and Ukrainian companies have provided a lot of assistance and cooperation on the design of the airframe and the engine technology.

The South Korean-Ukrainian rocket program should lead to a SpaceX Falcon 9 block 5 class rocket in perhaps ten years.

Ukrainian engineering was a significant part of the USSR air force, missile and rocket programs. Ukraine has the Zenit rocket and several other rocket designs.

Ukraines space industry flagships  the Yuzhnoye design office, the Yuzhny engineering plant and a number of leading aerospace companies in Kharkiv  ended up in direct proximity to the war zone.

In 2015, all defense contracts with Russia were suspended. Production of the Dnipro and Dnipro-1 rockets (modifications of the world-famous Satan) was frozen. The launch of the Lybid telecoms satellite was postponed indefinitely and the satellite itself is still in Russia. In 2015 Ukraine lost two international contracts at once: Sea Launch and the joint Ukrainian-Brazilian Alcantara project.

Now Ukraine rocket and airplane industry is coming back with deals with South Korea, Canada and China.

Ukrainian Engineering is the Secret Sauce for many Chinese rockets and military planes

Ukrainian sources are in the background helping many countries with rocket and aviation developments.

Ukraine is one of 10 countries with full-cycle rocket production capabilities, and in the years before the crisis of 2014 its aerospace companies earned over $600 million for the government annually.

China first twelve JL-10s trainer jets are powered by Ukrainian jet engines. The supersonic trainer is also known as the L-15. The deal for trainer engines was concluded in 2016 with Ukraines Motor Sich company in Zaporizhzhya when the first 20 engines were supplied. The $380 million deal calls for a total of 250 engines for the trainers. Ukraine recently delayed Chinas attempt to buy Motor Sich.

China remains a major arms buyer from Ukraine. In addition to JL-15 engines, recent Ukraine-China arms transfers have included some 50 diesel engines for tanks, and gas turbines for Luyang-2 and Luyang-3 guided missile destroyers.

In 2009, China bought two large Zubr-class hovercraft landing ships that were shipped to China shortly before Russia launched its covert military takeover of the Crimean peninsula.

Two more landing craft will be built in China under Ukrainian supervision. China also spent $45 million in 2016 to Ukraines state-owned Ukroboronprom for three Il-78M aerial refueling tankers.

The Chinese navy said in a statement last week that the JL-10s were commissioned in a ceremony at the Naval Aviation University in Shandong province.

The twin-engine JL-10 is powered by two Ukraine-made Ivchenko-Progress AI-222-25F turbofan engines. The jet is used for training Chinese navy pilots to flight the J-15 carrier-based fighter jet.

Canadas Spaceport and Rocket Program

The developers of Canadas only commercial spaceport are shooting for as many as a dozen rockets to blast off per year from a proposed site near Canso, a small community on Nova Scotias eastern shore.

Rocket designers and engineers from Ukrainian-based Yuzhnoye Design are helping Canadas Maritime Launch Service with Cyclone 4 rockets.

The Ukrainian firm is prepared to ramp up its production of Cyclone-4M medium-lift rockets to supply the site.

Ukraine has great jet engine, missile and space rocket know-how. It has only been lack of financing which has been holding them back.

A Ukrainian airplane and rocket industry with solid commercial success would enable Ukraine to start following the Israeli model of industrial development.Jeff Mitchell and I met for our interview last Wednesday morning at Yales Phelps Gate, a place with special meaning for this man, who has spent 16 years trying to find out who killed Yale student Suzanne Jovin.

Mitchell took me inside Yales Old Campus quad and pointed to a spot in the middle of the courtyard.

Thats where she spoke with Peter Stein, Mitchell noted.

Stein, a classmate of Jovins, later would tell police that she told him she was going to the Yale Police substation at Phelps Gate to turn in the keys to a university car. She had used the vehicle that night to help out at a Best Buddies charity party.

Jovin, a 21-year-old senior, dropped off the keys at about 9:20 p.m. on her last night, Dec. 4, 1998.

Mitchell and I turned left out the gateway onto College Street, where she was last seen walking, toward Elm Street.

Where Jovin went after that, who she was with and how she ended up about 30 minutes later lying mortally wounded near the corner of East Rock Road and Edgehill Road about two miles away, remains unknown.

Mitchell says its a mystery he is driven to solve.

He and I share a keen interest in this case and both of us are frustrated that the killer has not been found. For each of us, its personal. Jovin died in my neighborhood, about four blocks from my house; Mitchells longtime friend, James Van de Velde, was named as a suspect soon afterward.

When I first interviewed Mitchell at his home in Westport in 2002, Van de Velde was still listed as a suspect and Mitchell was trying to dig up information that would implicate somebody else and clear his old high school friend.

At least thats my belief about Mitchells motivation. But last week he told me, This was never about clearing Jims name. It was about: there was a murder and somebody has to be brought to justice for that.

Finally, in 2013, Van de Velde reached a legal settlement with Yale University and the city of New Haven in his lawsuit which claimed they wrongly singled him out and damaged his reputation. He had been Jovins instructor and adviser at Yale; university officials did not renew his contract after he was named a suspect in the case.

After the settlement was reached, States Attorney Michael Dearington said Van de Velde was no longer a suspect.

There was never any evidence against Jim, Mitchell told me. No motive, no blood, no fiber. Nothing at all.

Mitchell, a self-employed entrepreneur, said he regularly devotes lots and lots of hours to working on this case.

As Mitchell and I walked down College Street, he demonstrated the logical thinking he says he always employs when trying to figure out the case. He was rebutting a theory that somebody stalked Jovin, following her as she walked and then abducting her.

How do you stalk somebody when youre in a car? he asked. If the stalker was on foot and then forced her into a vehicle, Mitchell added, how would the perpetrator have known where she was going and where to have parked his vehicle so that she could quickly be pushed inside?

We walked a half-block on College Street, then turned left onto Elm Street. Mitchell has theorized that this continued to be the route Jovin took that night because it has been reported a Fresca bottle with her fingerprints on it was found near her body on East Rock Road. Mitchell determined through his research that the Krauszers near the corner of Elm and York streets was the only place in the area that sold Fresca in bottles. (Stein said she was not carrying the bottle when they spoke.)

The Krauszers is no longer there but Mitchell noted as we stood on its former site that vehicles now, as well as in December 1998, could legally park in front of that building. He also pointed up Elm Street toward Park Street, where Jovin lived; he said in 1998 the strip was dangerous, with at least one boarded-up building.

Mitchell noted these facts because it was long his theory that Jovin was randomly abducted by several people in a vehicle in that area. He had theorized they were seeking money or sex, became enraged when she resisted, stabbed her repeatedly and dumped her body on East Rock Road.

But as we walked up Elm Street last week, Mitchell told me his random abduction theory, although still possible, is now less possible.

Over the past several years, Mitchell and several other citizen investigators have been looking into the possibility that Jovin was killed by a mentally disturbed Yale School of Architecture student.

As I reported in December 2012, Gilles Carter, an East Rock resident who knew that troubled man at Princeton, reported to authorities his concerns after conferring with two other Princeton alumni.

This group compared the mans college yearbook photo with a police sketch police released based on the description of a female motorist who on the night of Jovins slaying saw a man running wildly on Whitney Avenue, close to the crime scene. Carter and his friends said the running man closely resembled that troubled graduate student, who had been a runner in school and often wore a green jacket, as did the runner on Whitney Avenue.

Moreover, Carter said that one day in October 2011, the man showed up at his doorstep in a hyper-agitated state and told him, I am obsessed with the murder of Suzanne Jovin.

Whenever that man felt a woman had rejected him, Carter said, he flew into a rage.

A year after that conversation, the young man died in what appeared to be a suicide.

Mitchell told me he wants to be clear there is no evidence Jovin knew that man; Mitchell admits this man could have nothing to do with her death. But he said that person fills in a lot of holes in the puzzle.

Mitchell recently emailed Chief States Attorney Kevin Kane, who oversees the cold case unit investigating the Jovin homicide and many others. Mitchell asked to be shown a photo of the murder weapon to see from the knifes tip if its an X-Acto, the type used by architecture students.

Mitchell, who told me he has spoken with many of the witnesses in the Jovin case, added, I know as much as anybody anywhere about it, outside of the police.

He said another expert on the case is David Cameron, a Yale professor of political science and a member of the states Eyewitness Identification Task Force. I share everything I know with David. He, I and Jim (Van de Velde) have been sharing information for 16 years. We test each others theories, debating what makes sense and what doesnt.

Mitchell added, Jim has worked pretty much every day from the start to help find the real killer.

Van de Velde now lives near Washington, D.C., doing government consultant work.

When I asked Cameron about Mitchell, he said, Jeff has been seriously committed to trying to figure out how to solve this case for a long time. Hes had some ideas that have been useful to the investigators.

Although Mitchell passes along to the cold case unit any leads he develops through his many contacts, he wants to meet with those investigators (joined by Cameron, Carter and other private citizens deeply involved in the Jovin case) and share everybodys knowledge. Lets come together and get this thing solved.

When I asked Kane about this, he said, Sometimes people (with information on cases) call and ask to meet with us and occasionally we will. He added, We appreciate any ideas. But sometimes they want information back and thats difficult. Theres a risk that details known only to the offender or witnesses might be released. (Police refer to this as contaminating evidence.)

As for Mitchells request to see a photo of the knife, Kane said, I wont comment on any specifics on what we might or might not do.

Meanwhile, Mitchell said, Ill do everything I can for as long as I can, to get this solved.

His email address is jmitchel@optonline.net. The contact information for the Jovin tips line is jovin.case@ct.gov or 1-866-623-8058.

Contact Randall Beach at rbeach@nhregister.com or 203-680-9345./ Contributed photo /Newtown Police Department

NEWTOWN  Police have found the missing Alabama girl believed to have traveled to Newtown, and both she and the teenaged male she was with are safe.

The Arab Police Department in Alabama contacted Newtown police Friday about 15-year-old girl who had gone missing the day before. Arab officers believed Lilly Faye Chapman left Alabama for the Exit 9 area in Newtown, Newtown police said in a release. Chapman might have met with a 17- to- 18-year-old man.NEW HAVEN  The Greater New Haven chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution rewarded 10 high school students for good citizenship last month, sending students home with a certificate and pin, and $500 in scholarship money.

Its a small amount of money compared to how much college costs, but everything helps, said Sandra Nuhn, recording secretary and Good Citizens Award chairwoman for the Mary Clap Wooster chapter of the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution.LUCKNOW (PTI): The ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) Experts' Working Group on Military Medicine being co-chaired by India and Myanmar began Sunday at the Central Command in Lucknow, a Defence official said.



"The aim of the conference is to establish better co-operation in medical operations amongst ASEAN and ASEAN-Plus countries for civil support by military operations other than war, especially humanitarian assistance and disaster response missions," the official said in a statement.



At the outset, Indian and Myanmar held a bilateral meeting as both countries are co-chairing the meeting.



The meeting will conclude on December 6.



The Association of Southeast Asian Nations includes Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia and Brunei.



The ASEAN-Plus includes India, the US, Russia, China, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea.



The ADMM-Plus is a platform for ASEAN and its eight dialogue partners to strengthen security and defence cooperation for peace, stability, and development in the region.



The meeting on Sunday was attended by Indian Army delegation from Directorate General of Medical Services and Defence Cooperation Division.



Progress on third cycle of ADMM Plus Expert Working Group on Military Medicine, modalities for conduct of Field Training Exercise and issues related to second ASEAN Military Medicine Conference were discussed in a cordial environment, the statement stated.

ANSONIA  The city will mark the 77th anniversary of Pearl Harbor Friday with a day of remembrance.

The public is invited to attend the ceremony, scheduled for 11 a.m. at Veterans Park, located next to City Hall at 253 Main St.

Area veterans and city officials will gather to mark the day in 1941 when more than 2,400 American soldiers lost their lives and more than 1,000 were wounded in the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor in Hawaii.

Former Aldermanic President Peter J. Danielczuk will serve as emcee for the event, and the guest speaker will be Vietnam veteran Patrick Freeman, commander of VFW Post 597, who is a strong advocate for reminding everyone to tell their children and grandchildren to never forget the day that changed America.

It is very important that we as a community remember Pearl Harbor and those who lost their lives on the day as well as those who survived ... and to all our veterans who served in World War II as well as all the other ones, Danielczuk said. I was fortunate that I did not have to serve but was always proud of my late father that he served in the Army in World War II and who landed on Omaha Beach in the next wave after D-Day. We do live in the greatest country in the world and I always close all my radio programs with God Bless America.

Former Alderman and Navy Reserve Chief Petty Officer Patrick Henri said remembering that day, and all those who perished, is important.

We should not forget those, who because of the sneak attack on Pearl Harbor that forced the U.S into a global conflict, who from our own neighborhoods went off to protect our sovereignty and families, with many never coming home or returning with physical and or emotional injuries, Henri said. Pearl Harbor stands as a reminder that while nations talk peace, we must be vigilant with our trust and be ready to counter broken trusts with a well-manned and well-equipped military forces. It is a reminder, just as September 11th was, that evil exists and we must be prepared to combat it at all levels by every means and every resource. It is a reminder that the American people are ready to counter any aggression and that we will lock arms to fight, to give comfort and care for each other, to search for peace and to demonstrate that we will not be bullied.

Mayor David Cassetti added, Our 41st President George H.W. Bush unfortunately just passed away so I am reminded that this sneak attack at Pearl Harbor compelled him to join the military. Many brave citizens signed up for what was later called World War II because of loss of U.S. lives as a result of the attack on Pearl Harbor. We can never forget Pearl Harbor and the events that took place there.

The ceremony will also feature the Rev. Russell Lesiw of Seymour Evangelical Baptist Church, along with VFW Post Quarter Master Kazimierz Brejwo, who organizes the annual ceremony, leading with the Pledge of Allegiance, the firing squad from St. Peter & St. Paul Catholic War Veterans and the traditional playing of taps courtesy of Korean War Veteran Bernard Williamson of American Legion Post 54, Derby.

jean.sos@snet.netFree talk for caregivers

DERBY  A free presentation to help caregivers of students with special needs advocate for their loved ones education will be held at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 6 at Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St.

Kevin Daly, Health Care Information Specialist with PATH Parent to Parent/Family Voices of Connecticut, will lead The Soft Skills of Special Education Advocacy, a presentation for parents of students with disabilities who want to sharpen their advocacy skills.

To register, call Kerry or Deborah at 203-732-7399.

Ansonia collects candy for soldiers

ANSONIA  Mayor David Cassetti recently presented the Gordon-Viselli American Legion Post 50 with more than 100 pounds of Halloween candy collected over the last few weeks to be distributed to military personnel around the globe.

Cassetti put out the call for residents to bring their leftover candy to City Hall, and they responded in a big way. The collected candy will be shipped to soldiers as part of the Treats for Troops initiative.

Civil rights attorney to speak at NAACP event

SEYMOUR  American Civil Rights Attorney Benjamin Crump who represented the families of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown and Tamir Rice, will be the guest speaker at the NAACP Ansonia Branchs 26th Annual Freedom Fund Dinner.

The event is scheduled for 5 p.m. Dec. 8 at Villa Bianca, 312 Roosevelt Dr. Tickets are $60 for adults and $25 for children 10 and under. The program will include award presentations to Shelton Police Chief Sequeria, state Sen. George Logan and Dr. Tamiko McArthur.

For tickets or more information contact Ronja Goldson at 203-906-9456.

Free talk on hip replacement

DERBY  Griffin Hospital will hold a free presentation on minimally invasive hip replacement at 5:45 p.m. Dec.19 at the hospital, 130 Division St.

Orthopedic Surgeon Philip Minotti, MD, will discuss the advanced direct anterior approach for hip replacement, which offers important advantages over standard surgical procedures. Direct anterior hip replacement patients generally experience less pain along with a shorter length of stay in the hospital and faster recovery.

Refreshments will be served.

For more information or to reserve a spot, call Griffin Hospital Orthopaedic Care Specialist Amy Gagne at 203-732-7524.

Casa Bianca Pizza opens

ANSONIA  A large crowd of customers and city officials celebrated the grand opening of Casa Bianca Pizza Nov. 29, including Mayor David Cassetti, Valley Chamber of Commerce President Bill Purcell, 6th Ward Alderman Josh Shuart and Economic Development Commission President Bill Luneski.

Food samples abounded as confetti flew to celebrate Casa Biancas second location. The Ansonia location is being developed as a prototype franchise.

Casa Bianca, located at 669 Main St, offers pick-up and delivery daily and extra late hours.

Compiled by By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich.Q. Can money spent to upgrade a home for sale be deducted from the capital gains from the sale?

-- Seller

A. If you're upgrading your home, yes, any funds spent will reduce the capital gain generated from the sale.

Such expenditures are added to the cost of the home, therefore reducing any potential gain, said Neil Becourtney, a certified public accountant and tax partner with CohnReznick in Eatontown.

"Capital improvements that qualify for this treatment are expenditures that add to the value of the home, prolong its useful life, or adapt it to new uses," he said. "This would encompass such items as additions to a home, installing central air conditioning, a new roof, and more."

Note that repairs and maintenance, such as applying a fresh coat of paint, do not constitute capital improvements and are not added to the cost, Becourtney said.

However, if items that would otherwise be considered repairs are done as part of an extensive remodeling or restoration of the home, the entire job would be considered a capital improvement eligible to reduce capital gain, he said.

You can get additional information on this can be found in IRS Publication 523, Selling Your Home.

Becourtney said in some cases, however, your question may not be relevant if you qualify for the principal residence gain exclusion.

"When a taxpayer both owned and used the home as their principal residence for at least two out of the preceding five years leading up to the sale date, they qualify for an exclusion of gain of up to $250,000, and taxpayers that are joint filers, may exclude the first $500,000 of gain," Becourtney said. "This exclusion applies for both federal and New Jersey purposes."

Good luck on the sale!

Email your questions to Ask@NJMoneyHelp.com.

Karin Price Mueller writes the Bamboozled column for NJ Advance Media and is the founder of NJMoneyHelp.com. Follow NJMoneyHelp on Twitter @NJMoneyHelp. Find NJMoneyHelp on Facebook. Sign up for NJMoneyHelp.com's weekly e-newsletter.The Flyers' next general manager came from a division rival.

Devils senior advisor Chuck Fletcher was named as the new general manager for the Flyers on Monday.

Fletcher was quickly considered one of the front runners to take the job in Philadelphia after the Flyers fired GM Ron Hextall on Monday, Nov. 26.

Devils lines vs. Bolts

Fletcher was part of the Devils' organization for just over five months. General manager Ray Shero brought Fletcher on as a senior advisor after the Minnesota Wild fired Fletcher as the teams GM following the 2017-18 season. He was in Minnesota for nine years, which included six straight trips to the postseason prior to his departure.

Given Fletchers track record in Minnesota, his stop in New Jersey always seemed like a stop gap before another GM opportunity opened up. Fletcher was able to help the Devils while staying in Minnesota, where his son was in his final year of high school.

Shero and Fletcher had a prior history working together, with Fletcher serving as assistant GM to Shero for three seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Chris Ryan may be reached at cryan@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @ChrisRyan_NJ. Find NJ.com Devils on Facebook.Three people from Hudson County were arrested on drug charges Saturday night after police suspected that a drug deal had occurred, authorities said.

Davion Jeffries, 31, of Jersey City, and Ashley Montalvo, 28, of Hoboken, were each charged with possession of marijuana, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and other drug offenses, Hoboken police Lt. Edgardo Cruz said. A 28-year-old Hoboken man, who police said was the customer, was charged with marijuana possession.

Police Officers Anthony Olivera and Anthony Russo were on patrol Saturday night at 10:50 p.m. when they saw a white Nissan Altima parked with the engine idling on 13th Street between Washington and Hudson streets, Cruz said. The officers saw the buyer walk up the the vehicle -- Jeffries and Montalvo were inside -- with money in his hand and get into the car.

The car pulled away and returned a few minutes later, with the man getting out at the same spot he was picked up, Cruz said. From their training and experience, the officers believed a drug deal had taken place. When Olivera approached the man, Olivera could see he was holding a clear bag with suspected marijuana, Cruz said. After the man was arrested, the car was stopped a short distance away by other officers, who ordered Jeffries out of the vehicle.

Olivera and Russo detected a strong odor of burnt and raw marijuana coming from the driver and vehicle, Cruz said, noting that Montalvo, the passenger, then handed over a small bag of marijuana. She was arrested and a search of the car turned up a black bag containing marijuana along with paraphernalia used to package the drugs, Cruz said. Jeffries was arrested and police seized $367 as drug proceeds.

Jeffries was taken to Hudson County jail, while Montalvo and the other man were issued summonses.The Centre for Digital Built Britain at the University of Cambridge has joined forces with the Manufacturing Technology Centre and Building Research Establishment to transform the way that infrastructure is designed, built and used.

The Transforming Construction Alliance brings together experts specialising in digital, manufacturing, building performance standards and construction technology. It has been awarded 72 million by Innovate UK to deliver the Core Innovation Hub, a key investment to transform productivity in the construction sector within the Transforming Construction Programme, funded from the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund.

Announcing the award at BRE Watford on Friday, Business & Industry Minister Richard Harrington said: We have the opportunity to revolutionise construction in the UK and the Core Innovation Hub will help us build smarter, greener and more efficient buildings much faster and cheaper than we do now.

From the introduction of virtual reality to off-site manufacturing, our modern Industrial Strategy is helping the UK construction sector to develop new techniques and skills - modernising the sector and delivering the homes and buildings our nation needs.

The CIH will act as the focal point for construction-related innovation, and strengthen links between the research base and businesses. It will support collaboration to develop and commercialise digital and manufacturing technologies for the construction sector to enable the schools, hospitals and infrastructure of the future to be built with strong levels of safety, quality and energy performance.

Through it, the CDBB will continue to develop a framework, pilot projects and set of principles to guide the development of digital twins for built assets and infrastructure, to ensure that the data is interoperable, supporting better integration of services across the built environment. Through its research, policy and change programmes it will support the promotion and adoption of effective information management and the digital transformation of the built environment. These new digital tools, standards and technologies will create new business and export opportunities for the UK infrastructure sector, and ensure that our social and economic infrastructure is designed, built and operated to improve people's quality of life.

Civil engineer Keith Waller has been appointed Programme Director to lead the Transforming Construction Alliance. He led the development of the governments recent Transforming Infrastructure Performance report. I look forward to working alongside government, industry and the talented teams at MTC, BRE and CDBB to realise the vision of a transformed construction sector, he said.

There is huge potential for transformation of large parts of the construction sector to a manufacturing industry, said Neil Rawlinson, Strategic Development Director at MTC. The widespread appetite for change throughout the industry and the impact that this change will have on so many aspects of life in the UK make us enormously excited to be delivering this pivotal role. The complementary skills of the alliance partners will ensure we deliver for industry and government.

The Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund will strengthen research and innovation in science and business in the UK. Its Transforming Construction programme aims to support 600 billion worth of infrastructure and construction projects over the next decade, creating new processes and techniques, including standardisation of modular components for manufacture.JERSEY CITY -- The heartbroken brother of a woman killed in a Jersey City crash that police said involved alcohol and marijuana says the driver's five-year prison sentence is simply not enough.

Khadijah Hamilton, 28, was sentenced to five years in prison on Friday for causing the death of Khalla Nguyen, who was 24 when she was killed in the Jan. 27 crash on Newark Avenue. Hamilton will be eligible for parole after serving 51 months of her sentence.

"I'm glad it finally happened and I'm glad she's going away but I don't think it's enough time for her to think about what she did," Sam Vo, the brother of the victim, said.

"She is a danger to the public and a danger to herself."

Nguyen was found dead in the 2000 Honda Accord at about 3 a.m. at Newark Avenue near Seventh Street. Authorities said police found a bloody bottle of Hennessy cognac and more than 40 smoked marijuana "blunts" in the car, prompting a prosecutor in the case to say Hamilton "basically treated her car like a bar."

Hamilton pleaded guilty to death by auto in October.

"The only thing that eats at my soul is that her friends left her," Vo, 26, said. "Nobody will know if she was still alive -- if she suffered. It still hurts to know the possibility she was there in pain and alone. She was dead by the time help came."

Officials said that Hamilton and two others in the car shouted for someone to dial 911 and walked away when an ambulance arrived. Officials said Nguyen died as a result of a massive head injury.

Vo said his sister attended School 23 and Liberty High School and had completed a course in nursing. He called his sister "a lovely person who loved to sing, loved to hang out and have a good time."

Vo, an auto mechanic, said he was eating lunch when police came to his workplace to tell him his sister was killed in the early morning crash.

"It was pretty bad," Vo said. "It was pretty tough. The worst part was I had to go tell my mother that Khalla didn't make it through the night."

At the sentencing, Assistant Prosecutor Erika Bertuzzi said that if Hamilton's prison term stops even one person from getting behind the wheel after drinking and using drugs, then the law has served its purpose. She read a letter from Vo at the hearing.

"Driving under the influence is a big deal," Vo said. "It's all fun and games until someone loses a life. That's really the lesson here. Life it too short."

After being sentenced by Hudson County Superior Court Judge Paul Depascale in the Hudson County Administration Building, Hamilton was taken to the Hudson County jail in Kearny to await being turned over to the state Department of Corrections.With "Long Road to Mercy" (Grand Central Publishing, 416 pp., $29), author David Baldacci launches a new series with a female protagonist.

When they were six years old, Atlee's twin was kidnapped from their shared bedroom, and Atlee has grown up with a determination to find out what happened to Mercy. Now a 30-something agent with the FBI, her obsession hasn't abated. The book opens with Atlee visiting a prison inmate who was convicted of murdering a number of women. She's pretty sure he's the one who kidnapped Mercy, but he refuses to shed any light on Mercy's whereabouts - or her fate.

That's just a stage-setter. While Mercy occupies some portion of Atlee's thoughts every day, this mystery is not about the missing sister. Though it's

probably not wrong to assume the quest to learn Mercy's fate will be a running theme in the series.

Atlee is a loner. She's more than content being the sole agent in a tiny office in Shattered Rock, Arizona, likes living in the middle of nowhere and reporting only to herself (well mostly), and enjoys the time her job gives her to pump iron in the gym. The latter is also a significant aspect of Atlee, and she has ample opportunities to draw on her Olympian-level strength.

The FBI office has two employees - Atlee and office manager Carol Blum, an older local resident who has absorbed a heap of sleuthing knowledge as manager of the small office. That's another significant fact, as Blum's expertise will play a larger role later in the story.

When Atlee is summoned to a tourist lodge on the floor of the canyon to investigate the fatal stabbing of a mule, she also learns one of the tour party is missing. After speaking with the man's distraught brother from Virginia, she tries to piece together what happened. She's been in the area long enough to develop resources among the area's law enforcement agencies and the resident indian population, but just as she's beginning to form an outline of what may have occurred, she's ordered off the case by her boss in Washington.

Puzzled, yet determined, Atlee goes off the grid. With an eager Blum at her side, the pair drives across the country to greater D.C. to clandestinely pursue their investigation.

None of that confirms the word "thriller" on the cover but, trust me, this definitely is a thriller. Barely a chapter goes by without some degree of action - some of it mano-a-mano, as Atlee proves capable of taking on more than one strong man at a time. Her experience as an agent may not have prepared her for such perilous confrontations, but her weight-lifting and strenuous workouts have more than compensated.

This is Baldacci's stock in trade, and he does it exceedingly well. Is it unrealistic that a female weight-lifter can take on several strong men bent on killing her and come out victorious? I'm clearly no judge, two bags of books being my weight-lifting record. But this is fiction, and once drawn into a story one accepts a lot in fiction. It's not as though Baldacci is trying to recreate Wonder Woman.

Research is another of his strengths, and the story is loaded with Grand Canyon history (some of it folkloric) and lots of intriguing canyon trivia - distances in every direction, the effects of heat on the body at various times of day, etc.

Oh, and then there's a romantic connection that develops between Atlee and one of the national park's rangers, a former military vet.

The book has not gotten great reviews. But having read everything this author has written, I admit to being a fan. That said, this is Baldacci at the top of his game.

Fran Wood, retired Star-Ledger op-ed columnist and former books editor, blogs at nj.com.Kim Luciano and her daughter Allison attended a vigil in May for Kearny residents who've fallen victim to drug overdoses. They wrote on balloons the names of loved ones they've lost to drugs, a list that includes both of their fathers.

It was a somber day of healing and support, especially for Allison, who'd been battling heroin addiction for five years.

"I don't want to write your name on a balloon," Luciano told her daughter.

But a month later, Allison Gaynor died inside the bathroom of a Popeye's in Belleville.

Luciano believes her daughter, who had been in and out of rehab five times, may have used fentanyl that day, a powerful synthetic opioid that authorities say is 80 to 100 times stronger than morphine. She was 24.

"I still can't believe it," Luciano said. "The first couple of weeks I was just numb to it all."

"And now the realization starts to set in that she's not coming home."

The anguish Luciano's family has endured is just a glimpse of the opioid epidemic plaguing the country. Nationally, more than 70,000 people died of drug overdoses in the U.S. in 2017, according to a Centers for Disease Control report released last week. Drug overdose deaths have been so prolific, the life expectancy in the U.S. decreased in 2017 for the second time in three years.

In Hudson County, the number of drug-related deaths has been steadily rising since 2015, according to data compiled by the state Attorney General's Office.

As of this month, 164 people have died of suspected drug overdoses in Hudson County this year, surpassing last year's total of 147, according to preliminary data for 2017.

And while the number of opioid prescriptions that doctors have written has been declining since 2016 in Hudson, drug-related deaths continue to rise.

Dr. Lewis S. Nelson said the decline in opioid prescriptions, like oxycodone, has resulted in people seeking dangerous alternatives on the streets, like heroin and fentanyl.

"So the paradox of an increasing opioid death rate with a falling prescription rate is due primarily to heroin and fentanyl," said Nelson, the director of medical toxicology at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School.

"What we see is that we've added a heroin-fentanyl epidemic on top of a prescription opioid epidemic," he added. "One has not replaced the other."

Of the 147 people who died of drug overdoses in Hudson in 2017, fentanyl was involved 69 times - a 102 percent increase from the year before. Heroin was used in 84 of the overdose deaths, an increase of 9 percent from 2016.

But Dr. Tucker Woods, chief medical officer at CarePoint Health-Christ Hospital in Jersey City, said the company's emergency departments have been making significant progress in curbing the use of opioids.

"We give alternatives to opioids that are not only more effective, but they're not addictive," Woods said. "It's been a game-changer for us."

At CarePoint Health's facilities - Christ Hospital, Hoboken University Medical Center and Bayonne Medical Center - a pain scale of 1 to 10 determines whether a patient receives an opioid. Four or higher qualifies a patient for an opioid drug.

A fractured ankle, for example, could typically lead a doctor to prescribe an opioid, Woods said.

"But for the more common conditions, we really reduced the use of opioids dramatically, and I think that's the responsible thing to do," Woods said, adding that CarePoint Health no longer uses Dilaudid, a hydromorphone used to treat moderate to severe pain.

The use of naloxone, a medication that counteracts an opioid overdose, has also been a powerful tool to save lives. Last year, it was used 683 times in Hudson County - a 238 percent increase from 2015 when it was deployed 202 times.

Despite the progress being made, the crisis continues to deepen across New Jersey. The state has already surpassed last year's preliminary total of 2,750 overdose deaths and is on pace to see 3,000 people die of drug overdoses by the end of the year.

Dr. Deven Unadkat, an emergency physician at Jersey City Medical Center, has worked in 10 emergency departments in New Jersey, treating patients for overdoses on a seemingly daily basis, he said.

"It's every age group, every ethnicity, every socio-economic class," Unadkat added. "It's not a disease of the young or the poor. It's a problem for everybody."

Sean Nee, a friend of Allison Gaynor, was among the 127 people who died of drugs in Hudson County in 2016 when he suffered a heroin overdose a month before his 25th birthday.

"I know he's at peace now, and he's not struggling anymore," said Christine Nash, Nee's mother. "Of course, I would rather have him here."

Nash, a single mother of three, said her son struggled with drug abuse for nearly 10 years. She added that Hudson County lacks the adequate services for drug abuse treatment.

While her son had health insurance, Nash said she spent more than $25,000 on his rehab expenses.

"I do believe we need more. We need more resources for parents because maybe this could've been caught earlier," Nash said. "A parent shouldn't have to mortgage their home to keep their child alive."

Nelson echoed Nash's complaints.

"It is a big problem. We don't have adequate resources for treatment," Nelson said. "I think the new governor and new legislature [are] poised to make a difference, but they haven't done an adequate job of doing that."

Luciano continues to channel her grief and frustration into the Kearny Cares support group, which she founded in 2016.

She said her daughter had been in rehab three times by the time she started the group and that she wanted to help connect Kearny residents with resources. The group offers support to families dealing with drug abuse, and ultimately, seeks to end the stigma.

"My biggest goal is if you can keep somebody alive long enough that they start to want to stay sober for themselves, eventually they will start to feel better.

"We're burying an awful lot of people," she added. "That's so unnecessary."A 25-year-old New Jersey man was killed after he rear-ended a tractor-trailer parked on the right shoulder of Interstate 287 in Middlesex County on Sunday night, officials said.

The man was driving south near milepost 0.6 in Edison when he veered off the road and slammed into the back of the truck, State Police said Monday morning. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The truck driver was not hurt and there were no passengers in either the car or the tractor-trailer.

The drivers identity will be released after notification of his family, Sgt. Lawrence Peele said.

A portion of I-287 was closed for about three hours after the 10:40 p.m. crash.

State Police said they continue to investigate the cause.

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman. Find NJ.com on Facebook.A New Jersey lawyer is scheduled to stand trial this week in a lawsuit accusing him of telling others generally how much a Catholic order paid an alleged victim of sexual abuse.

The Order of St. Benedict claims Gregory Gianforcaro breached a confidentiality clause in a 1988 settlement with the order when he told reporters the Catholic order paid a seven-figure sum to resolve the sexual abuse allegations.

Gianforcarlos trial was scheduled to begin Monday before Superior Court Judge Rosemary E. Ramsay in Morristown, court records show.

The Order, which operates the Delbarton School in Morristown, has been a defendant in multiple lawsuits brought by former students who allege monks sexually abused them while they attended the school.

Gianforcaro, whose Phillipsburg-based firm has represented a number of the former students, did not represent the client in question at the time of the 1988 settlement, according to court filings.

He nonetheless was served with a complaint alleging breach of contract after telling reporters in 2012 his new client, William Wolfe, had resolved the earlier lawsuit against the order for approximately seven figures

Gianforcaros attorneys, from the firm of McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter, have argued the confidentiality clause does not apply to the lawyer, who wasnt representing Wolfe, then referred to as W.W., at the time of the 1988 settlement.

The Delbarton School in June acknowledged a total of 30 people have come forward with accusations of sexual abuse involving 13 current or former priests and monks at the school.Five children had died and 17 others had been infected by the time state Health Commissioner Shereef Elnahal learned in October about the viral outbreak at the Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Haskell.

The commissioner told a state Senate panel on Monday that wont happen again.

Leadership at the highest levels in the Department need to be made aware of severe facility outbreaks immediately, in case deviations from protocol are warranted, Elnahal said. Therefore, I have directed, through new internal policy, that both CDS and Survey leadership immediately notify me and the principal deputy commissioner of any outbreaks where pediatric deaths have occurred, among other criteria.

During a packed fact-finding hearing at the Statehouse in Trenton, Elnahal told the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee what has transpired at Wanaque is nothing short of tragic.

The commissioner noted that the department has had to face several crises in recent weeks, including infections at University Hospital in Newark and a measles outbreak that continues to spread.

"Nothing has rattled my team  and myself  more than our painstaking effort at the Wanaque Center, he told state Sen. Joseph Vitale, D-Middlesex, the chairman of the committee.

The Wanaque Center outbreak began at the nursing home on Sept. 26, and the facility notified the department on Oct. 9. Ten days later, Elnahal said, following protocol, he was alerted to the health crisis Eleven children died from the outbreak at the Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation. In an unrelated event, three babies died who were exposed to a bacterial infection at Newarks University Hospital.

No Wanaque officials attended the hearing. Wanaque Administrator Rowena Bautista said in a letter on the facilitys website that it had declined the invitation.

Among other reasons, our legal obligations to protect patient privacy under the federal HIPAA statute, and the restrictions on our ability to discuss our patients and their care, would not allow us to provide much of the information that the committee would seek and that would be useful to your inquiry, Bautistas letter said.

Bautista also dismissed allegations reported by NJ Advance Media from anonymous employees who said patients were kept at the facility so Wanaque would continue receiving Medicaid reimbursement.

Those suggestions are categorically false, according to Bautistas statement.

Sen. Richard Codey, D-Essex, said Wanaques absence was unacceptable. The Senate should subpoena Wanaque officials and drag their butts in here.

The adenovirus outbreak at the Wanaque Center began when the first kids started getting sick on Sept. 26, according to the state Department of Health. Thats when the first child was diagnosed with a respiratory ailment, according to officials.

But it would not be until two girls were already dead when the Wanaque Center notified local health department officials on Oct. 9 of a cluster of respiratory illnesses. And the state did not send inspectors there until Oct. 21.

State legislators have expressed particular concerns over the time it took for the health department to respond.

Assemblywoman Holly Schepisi, R-Bergen, who represents the district that includes Wanaque, told the committee parents were kept in the dark about the outbreak until it was too late.

There was no communication whatsoever, Schepisi said. And in some instances, they were finding out their children were going to die hours before they were going to die. The fact we have to legislative communicating the families and loved ones is a little surreal.

Vitale said the committee would consider drafting legislation to correct the communications problems exposed by the outbreak.

We should revisit notification standards that determine when the Department of Health is notified of an infectious disease outbreak and when parents are informed," Vitale said in a statement after the hearing. There is a moral responsibility to keep the families informed about the health and well-being of their loved ones and state health officials need to be notified in a timely manner so they can respond rapidly and appropriately."

State health officials waited two weeks before deploying a team to see how Wanaque was managing the crisis. Later, they ordered a second surprise inspection after a report by NJ Advance Media citing workers at the pediatric care facility who alleged that administrators delayed sending critically ill kids to the hospital because they did want to lose Medicaid funding if a pediatric bed went empty.

State Sen. Fred Madden, D-Gloucester questioned why it took nearly two months to separate the infected children from the ones who had not been exposed to the adenovirus. Elnahal has said there wasnt the room to separate children earlier.

If there was a fire there tonight, these people would be moved tonight, said Madden, who suggested using temporary trailers and other options should have been discussed.

Vitale agreed. We should consider requiring outbreak preparedness plans at all these facilities that outline what actions should be taken as soon as an outbreak is identified," he said in his statement.

At University Hospital in Newark, three infants have died in connection with a bacterial outbreak inside the neonatal intensive care unit since September, according to health department officials.All four had been exposed to the Acinetobacter baumannii bacteria, a hospital-acquired infection.

Editors note: Do you have a family member on the pediatric unit at the Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation, or a child who has been affected by the viral outbreak there? NJ.com would like to hear from you. You may reach us at (732) 902-4559, or write to Susan Livio at slivio@njadvancemedia.com, Spencer Kent at skent@njadvancemedia.com, or Ted Sherman at tsherman@njadvancemedia.com.

An earlier version of this story misidentified the number of children who died by the time state Health Commissioner Shereef Elnahal was notified of the outbreak. It was five children.

NJ Advance Media staff writer Ted Sherman contributed to this report.

Susan K. Livio may be reached at slivio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @SusanKLivio. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.

Spencer Kent may be reached at skent@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @SpencerMKent. Find the Find NJ.com on Facebook.The FBI has been asking questions about embattled Atlantic City Mayor Frank Gilliam involving allegations of financial improprieties since early this year, several sources with direct knowledge told NJ Advance Media.

Two of those sources said they were interviewed on two occasions , most recently in late summer, about financial improprieties, including the mayors alleged mishandling of a $10,000 campaign check, despite the fact he was cleared of wrongdoing by a Superior Court judge earlier this year. The sources requested anonymity because they said they feared it would compromise any federal inquiry and because of concerns about potential reprisal.

On Monday, shortly before 8 a.m., roughly a dozen federal agents from the FBI and IRS descended on the Ohio Avenue home of the mayor to execute a search warrant. For the better part of the morning, they were seen exiting the house with at least 10 bankers boxes and a computer from the residence.

We can confirm that our agents were executing a search warrant at the home of Mayor Frank Gilliam, said Doreen Holder, a public affairs specialist with the FBIs Newark office.

In March, Atlantic City councilman George Tibbitt told the Philadelphia Inquirer that hed been interviewed by the FBI about checks intended for his campaign ending up in Gilliams campaign account. Last week, Tibbitt told NJ Advance Media that he was interviewed about checks stolen from me.

In March, a criminal complaint was filed In Superior Court about a $10,000 check to the Atlantic City Democratic Committee in Superior Court which had been deposited in Gilliams own campaigns account.

The mayor said the $10,000 check was deposited into his account in error. In April, Superior Court Judge Bernard DeLury dismissed the charges saying there was not even a scintilla of evidence of wrongdoing in the matter, and the state dropped the case.

I have no comment, said Gilliam, when reached on his mobile phone by NJ Advance Media last week about the FBI interviews.

On Monday, the mayor declined to comment as he was seen leaving his house after the FBI raid.

The mayor is also facing two summonses in municipal court for simple assault and another for harassment stemming from a 2:30 a.m. brawl outside the Golden Nugget Casinos Haven nightclub last month. The Cape May prosecutors office announced last week that it will not pursue charges against Gilliam, but complaints will be heard in municipal court next week.

Meanwhile, Gilliam has been facing an open revolt from his own party pending the resolution of the municipal assault charges.

Last week, the Atlantic City Democratic Committee voted 27-3 on a resolution seeking the removal of Gilliam and city councilman-at-large Jeffree Fauntleroy II to leave their positions without pay until the assault investigation is concluded.

The committee also asked Gov. Phil Murphy and Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver to remove them from office if they did not step down.

Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver said last week that the governors office would not intervene.

John Devlin, a Democratic committeeman in Atlantic City, said the Atlantic City Democratic Committee had no choice but to mount a recall effort against the mayor.

"Were getting support from the whole community to move forward with the recall effort, said Devlin, Because perception is reality, and right now the perception is that Atlantic Citys corrupt: Youve got a mayor taking $10,000 donations and beating people up. Who would invest here?

Reporter Chris Franklin contributed to this story.

Claude Brodesser-Akner may be reached at cbrodesser@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @ClaudeBrodesser. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.By Micah Herskind

In the flurry of last months election results, one result stood out as particularly exciting: Florida voters passed Ballot Initiative 4, reinstating the right to vote for nearly 1.5 million voters and re-enfranchising nearly twenty percent of Floridas African American population. Just as importantly, Floridas referendum highlighted that group-based voter disenfranchisement remains a widespread legalized practice, enshrined in law, that affects millions who have come into contact with the criminal justice system.

This is true here in New Jersey, where an estimated 100,000 people remain formally disenfranchised under the law, held in prison, on parole, or on probation. These are the individuals for whom, as a recent reportfrom the Peoples Policy Lab notes, democracy remains a spectator sport.

In other words, much like the United States itself, New Jersey is not yet a formal democracy. The state and country are democratizing, perhaps, but the franchise has been historically slow to extend to at the margins of society. Over two hundred years after the countrys founding, why has the franchise not yet been extended to all?

NJ first denied the vote to people w/ convictions in 1844, the year it restricted voting to white men. URGE your legislators to pass, & @GovMurphy to sign, S-2100/A-3456 to restore the precious vote to 100,000 people in prison, on parole or probation. #1844NoMore #LetUsVote pic.twitter.com/HBafFId5rv  Ryan P. Haygood (@RyanPHaygood) November 7, 2018

Some argue that to commit a crime is to forfeit ones right to vote. But setting aside the fact that many of us commit crimes daily  the frequent yet un-policed drug use at my own school, Princeton University, confirms as much disenfranchisement is a part of a larger racially-concentrated and class-stratified system that turns incarcerated people into second-class citizens.

This is particularly true in New Jersey, which features the worst racial disparities in its prison system of any state and where roughly half of those disenfranchised for a criminal conviction are Black.

As these disparities have been highlighted, a growing consensus seeks to end mass incarceration. But a crucial step in that process is ensuring our legislators are accountable to the incarceratedhow can we end mass incarceration if we refuse to listen to those who have borne the worst of it? And while part of listening to and learning from incarcerated people means reading their work and amplifying their activism, the other part is listening electorally, through the vote.

Disenfranchisement also persists because some politicians directly benefit from the practice. In a manner eerily reminiscent of the three-fifths clausewhich boosted slave-holding states electoral representation while denying the personhood of the enslavedthose held in prisons are unable to vote, but are generally counted for electoral representation in the counties where they are imprisoned. Frequently referred to as prison gerrymandering, this practice persists here in New Jersey, where legislation to overturn the practice was vetoed in 2017 by then-Governor Christie.

But to be clear, disenfranchising incarcerated people isnt wrong just because it artificially boosts electoral representation in some places; its wrong because voting is a right, and those impacted by the law deserve a say in the policy process.

Further, the continued disenfranchisement of incarcerated people runs counter to many politicians stated goals. Indeed, there is a renewed bipartisan consensus on the need for effective post-incarceration reentry. And yet, though politicians want incarcerated people to return to society as productive citizens, our system does not treat them as citizens. How can we expect civic engagement if we dont grant the means to civically engage?

We cant. Fortunately, bills A3456 and S2100 have recently been introduced into the New Jersey legislature. Currently stuck in committee, if passed this legislation would restore the right to vote to the nearly 100,000 people who are incarcerated or on probation or parole in New Jersey.

This is groundbreaking legislation, and would make New Jersey a leader in the fight for the voting rights.

But even voting rights legislation is an incomplete, if important, step toward democracy. Along with the right to vote must come a massive organizing initiative to register newly-eligible voters  or better, to automatically register all voters  and to get out the vote. Such an effort will be integral to democracy, both in Florida now and in New Jersey after legislation is passed.

Regardless of your politics, we must recognize that we will only live in a true democracy once everyone has the right to vote. So, call your representative, and maybe even get involved with the statewide campaign for voting rights. New Jersey isnt yet a democracybut with your help, it can be.

Micah Herskind is a student at Princeton University and members of Students for Prison Education and Reform.

Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook.They say you can find anything on eBay, Facebook or Craig's List. At any time somebody is probably trying to sell whatever it is you are looking for.

That's not always a good thing.

It certainly wasn't for a 16-year-old Sudanese girl whose parents auctioned her off on Facebook.

Yes, really.

It did happen and Facebook claims it didn't notice until five bidders had responded and the girl was married off to the guy who offered 500 cows, three cars and $10,000.

According to the children's rights organization Plan International, some of the bidders may have been high Sudanese officials.

New Jersey recently enacted a law that says no one under the age of 18 can marry here, with or without parental consent.

Supporters of A3091 had argued that one person's "parental consent" might be another person's "parental coercion." Prior to passage of that bill thousands of young New Jersey women, some as young as 13, were married here with permission from a judge or a parent. Ninety-one percent of those girls married someone over age 18.

Young men under 18 wanting to marry doesn't seem to be problem, here or anywhere else. But many cultures encourage - sometimes force - marriages between young girls and much older men. Usually for economic reasons that benefit the bride's parents, but occasionally in attempts to restore "honor" to the family of a rape victim.

For centuries some families used their daughters as goods to be sold or bartered for the highest price or best deal. Royal houses did it to enforce treaties and acquire new lands, and poor farmers did it to obtain goods or an animal to support the rest of the family.

Whether rich or poor, the girl had no choice. She may have been the family's only asset.

Sometimes with the best of intentions, families promoted the marriage of their daughters to wealthier or better educated men, and in those cases the daughters may have had some choice, but only if they could resist incessant family pressure.

However, the Facebook auction may be the first recorded instance of social media being used for such a purpose.

George Otim, Plan International's director in South Sudan, said, "That a girl could be sold for marriage on the world's biggest social networking site in this day and age is beyond belief. This barbaric use of technology is reminiscent of latter-day slave markets."

Facebook acknowledged the auction was launched on its site October 25th but said it was removed on November 9th. Didn't matter by then. The teenager was sold off and married on November 3rd. The presumably proud groom was not identified.

In mid-November Facebook issued a statement saying, "Any form of human trafficking, whether posts, pages, ads or groups, is not allowed on Facebook." Oops. Not timely and obviously not true either.

UNICEF reported 52 percent of girls are married in South Sudan before they turn 18, often "against the girl's will and best interests."

A spokesperson for the South Sudanese National Alliance for Women Lawyers got in touch with the bride's mother, who said she wasn't happy about the auction but admitted her family had benefited greatly from the bidding war.

"This is the highest dowry reported in the region," the lawyer said.

Soliciting dowries is not uncommon in Sudan and some other countries, but the on-line auction was too much for some Sudanese officials who called on their government to investigate and suspend any officials involved in it.

Under the circumstances, it doesn't feel right to congratulate the newlyweds, but I sure do wish the bride good luck.

A former assemblywoman from Jersey City, Joan Quigley is the president and CEO of North Hudson Community Action Corp.

Submit letters to the editor and guest columns at jjletters@jjournal.comThe Boston Red Sox won the 2018 World Series in large part because of the improved play of its relievers during the postseason.

That includes closer Craig Kimbrel, who had most members of Red Sox Nation biting their nails every time he took the mound.

Kimbrel was a nightmare for the Red Sox in the 2018 playoffs. Sure, he was a perfect 6-for-6 in save opportunities. But he gave up seven earned runs in 10.2 innings pitched. Thats a 5.90 ERA! You could almost say the Red Sox won the World Series in spite of Kimbrel.

Now, the 30-year-old right-hander is a free agent, and hes looking for a six-year contract.

Which means his return to Boston is anything but a sure thing.

So the Red Sox are looking at their free agency options and see a pair of former Yankees who might have the right stuff: David Robertson and Zach Britton.

Per George King of the New York Post:

When asked about Robertson, who has a house in Rhode Island, landing a three-year deal with Boston, a person with knowledge of the situation replied, The Red Sox are in for less.

Which means the World Series champions are waiting to see if Robertsons best offers will be for one or two years. And Britton, who will turn 31 on Dec. 22, could be looked upon by the Red Sox as their closer should Craig Kimbrel leave via free agency.

...

Closer Aroldis Chapman can opt out of a contract following the 2019 season and had tendinitis in his left knee that put him on the disabled list from Aug. 22-Sept. 19 this past season. So, the Yankees could bring Britton back as insurance against Chapman leaving two years and $35.4 million to chase more years and dollars. However, until an Achilles tendon injury that required surgery limited him to a total of 41 games this past season, Britton was among the best big league closers and there are several teams who still view the left-hander as an elite closer. From 2014 to 2016, Britton saved 120 games

....

A second (Yankees) reunion with Robertson is cloudy. In his first stab at free agency, when the right-hander was 29, the Yankees allowed him to flee for the White Sox and a four-year deal worth $46 million. Now, Robertson will turn 34 in April.

The Red Sox tried trading for Britton before the non-waiver deadline in July, but Brian Cashman pried the southpaw from the Orioles. So instead, the Red Sox picked up Nathan Eovaldi, who became one of the most important players for Boston in the 2018 World Series.

The Red Sox want to re-sign Eovaldi, who could be looking at four-year contract worth more than $60 million, opening the door for contenders such as the Yankees to make a bid for the right-hander.| BY Ricki Green |

PHD Melbournes head of strategy Anna Cherry has been lured to the head of strategy role at Blue 449 Australia.

A next generation storyteller and strategic thinker with creative flair, Cherry has significant experience in roles which span the media and communications industry and has worked across a vast cross-section of categories including FMCG, sport, banking and automotive.

Prior to Blue 449 Cherry was PHDs head of strategy in Melbourne tasked with building momentum for clients including Carlton United Brewerys, ANZ Bank, Vocus Communications, 7-Eleven amongst others.

Before this she was with Dentsu Mitchell initially leading strategy across the whole of Federal Government and then moving into a head of commercial strategy role working with clients in Australia and Japan.

Based in Blue 449s Melbourne office Cherry will be responsible for leading the national strategy offering, working with all offices to produce the most innovative solutions to deliver business and brand focussed outcomes for Blue 449s clients.

Says Duncan Parfitt, managing director, Blue 449: After meeting Anna it became clear that she was an incredible cultural fit, possessing a wonderful combination of entrepreneurial drive to make a difference and genuine care about the impact on her clients. This, added to the ability to deliver and inspire the highest quality of product and ambition in the full Blue 449 team, made her the perfect candidate to lead our Strategy division nationally.An ugly fight over an audit that found the city of Zachary paid two vendors $3.5 million without having contracts in place has died down some, but the city councilman most upset about the matter has made clear he is not giving up on his quest for | BY Ricki Green |

Aussie beaches and our coastal lifestyle are ingrained in our national culture and identity. A new short film by Surf Life Saving NSW and Taste Creative, has been released to showcase how creating an inclusive beach experience for people with disability is benefiting our Australian community.

The acclaimed short film, Taking Back the Waves, was funded by the NSW Government and developed as part of the Surf Life Saving NSW Community Inclusion Program. The film focuses on three trial sites in NSW and explores some of the inspirational work being done by community groups and Surf Lifesavers in Pambula in the states south, Bondi and Collaroy in Sydney and Nobbys and Newcastle beaches.

Surf Life Saving NSW identified that people of all abilities have a role to play in the life of any local community. Creating an inclusive beach experience for people with disability, their families and friends was seen as essential in promoting equity and breaking down barriers.

Says Steven Pearce, CEO, Surf Life Saving NSW: Surf Life Saving is looking at new ways we can be more inclusive. Within our own membership we would love to increase participation in sport and recreational activities by people with disability. In addition we want to work with the community to assist with better access to beach precincts for everybody.

The film was produced by Sydney-based creative agency, Taste Creative.

Says Henry Smith, managing director, Taste Creative: We are very proud to partner with Surf Life Saving NSW to bring this important message to our screens. It is so easy to take our beaches for granted, but if youre a person living with disability, this can be a completely different story. Our beautiful Australian coastline should be inclusive to all people  we are an inclusive country, and so we need to ensure our beaches are inclusive to everyone.

Taking Back the Waves is a truly inspirational insight into how creating an inclusive coastal environment can be life-affirming for people with disability.

Coinciding with International Day of People with Disability, the film is set to officially launch on Monday December 3rd at Sydneys iconic Bondi Beach by the NSW Minister for Disability Services, Ray Williams. The film has been touring the national and international film festival circuit for the last 12 months, including official selection at Cannes Entr2 Marches, the Human Rights Arts and Film Festival, Nevada Dam Film Festival and the Gympie Heart of Gold Film Festival.

Says Steven Pear: We hope the impact of the film will be significant and will shine a spotlight on the importance of inclusive access to our beaches and coastline.

Creative Director: Henry Smith

Executive Producer: Briana Miller

Writer & Director: Genevieve Clay-Smith

Producer: Erin Black

Director of Photography: Dale Bremner

Editor & Colourist: Javed SterrittNorth Augusta, SC (29841)

Today

Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High near 60F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low 31F. Winds light and variable.

Viewed of

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.| BY Lynchy |

Zeno has signaled its full commitment to China by appointing Ruby Fu to the newly-created position of President, Zeno China. Most recently, Fu was CEO of Burson-Marsteller in China and before that, spent seven years with Standard Chartered Bank in Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Fu (pictured) brings more than 30 years of experience in Greater China to her new Zeno role. In her previous corporate and agency positions, she has directed strategic planning and business development, managed a range of cross-border issues, and been instrumental in developing new market entries for clients based in the U.S. and Europe.

Based in Shanghai, Fu reports to Margaret Key, Zeno CEO Asia-Pacific. Fu will be responsible for establishing and expanding Zenos presence in China, both organically and by acquisition.

At this time in Chinas history, entrepreneurs are celebrated as never before. Zeno has the great entrepreneurial spirit that this market needs and that clients look for and demand in their agencies. Ive also been drawn to their speed and agility as a mid-sized agency, together with their highly strategic global approach, counseling clients at the highest levels, Fu said.

With Ruby now leading our China team, Zeno clients everywhere know that their gateway to this essential market is secure, CEO Key said. Ruby brings to Zeno the kind of in-depth, detailed understanding of China that only the most experienced and capable executives can deliver.Stocks rose on Wall Street Monday after President Trump and President Xi Jinping agreed to a temporary truce in the trade war between the United States and China.

The S&P 500-stock index climbed 1.1 percent, notching its fifth gain in the last six trading sessions. Major Asian and European equity markets also posted solid increases.

Exporting giants like Boeing, Caterpillar and Deere pulled the export-reliant S&P 500 industrial sector higher. Semiconductor makers, which have been hurt by the trade wars potential to disrupt their widespread production networks in Asia, also rose, as did tech giants such as Apple, which climbed more than 3 percent.

Still, market gains were tempered by doubts that the fragile cease-fire  essentially a 90-day postponement of additional American tariffs on Chinese imports  would put the dispute between the worlds two largest economies to rest permanently.NAPLES, Fla.  Most people from the Northeast move to Florida to get out of the cold. Colleen Gill came to Naples because she heard the call of the wild.

She had vacationed on this slice of coastal paradise for 20 years. She made regular jaunts to the Big Cypress National Preserve, home to cypress swamps and wild panthers. She kayaked in the Gulf. With each visit, she fell more in love.

Ms. Gill and her husband own a hemp footwear company that they can manage from anywhere. So they sold their house in New Hampshire three years ago and headed down for good.

Ms. Gill, 38, coveted her regular long walks on the white-sand beaches. By last summer, the walks had turned gruesome. Increasingly, there would be eels, tarpon and sea turtles dead or dying along the tide line.[What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.]

About an hour after sundown on Sunday, a hydraulic lift hoisted several people, including a rabbi, to the top of a 36-foot steel menorah erected in front of The Plaza Hotel on Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan.

Hundreds of spectators gathered to see the gold-painted, 4,000-pound menorah, undeterred by a light rain. Shortly after the people reached the top, the candelabrums right oil lantern flickered to life, kicking off Hanukkah, the eight-day celebration of the Jewish Festival of Lights.

The giant menorah, which shined bright against the dark fog that blanketed Central Park, has been lit hundreds of times by rabbis, mayors and governors. It has long been a joyous fixture of the holiday season in New York City since it was first erected in 1977.

But, for many, this year was different. For them, the annual Hanukkah ritual felt more significant in the wake of a mass shooting in a Pittsburgh synagogue in October that left 11 dead. The Anti-Defamation League described the rampage, by a man who shouted anti-Semitic slurs as he opened fire, as the deadliest attack against the Jewish community in the United States.Ken Berry, the boyish television actor who played nice guys with affable attitudes and a wide range of I.Q.s on three popular sitcoms between 1965 and 1990, died on Saturday in Burbank, Calif. He was 85.

The death was confirmed by a spokeswoman at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center, The Associated Press said.

Mr. Berry was a handsome, accident-prone 1860s Army captain who got along remarkably well with his Native American neighbors in the farcical F Troop (1965-67); a widowed North Carolina farmer with a small son and no housekeeping skills, replacing Andy Griffith when The Andy Griffith Show evolved into Mayberry R.F.D. (1968-71); and a hapless Southern husband and son in Mamas Family (1983-84, 1986-90), a successful spinoff from The Carol Burnett Show.

In a 2012 Archive of American Television interview, Mr. Berry said that his time on F Troop had been his most cherished, partly because it was his first starring television role and partly because he was allowed to contribute to the characters comic persona.The article, highly nuanced on the theme, focused mostly on how science and secularism were supplanting religion. But in a country where 97 percent of adults said they believed in God, it touched off a ferocious backlash against the magazine and led to the vilification particularly of Dr. Altizer, who was more visible than the others, spoke to the press and had a certain theatrical flair.

God is dead, he asserts with finality in a documentary produced for National Educational Television after the Time article came out. This God is no longer present, is no longer manifest, is no longer real.

He even went on the Merv Griffin Show, a popular television talk program, though the event, held before a live audience in a Broadway theater, was a debacle. He was given two minutes to speak. The response was a violent one, he wrote later, forcing the director to close the curtains and order the band to play forcefully, and after this event a crowd greeted me at the stage door, demanding my death.

His theology was esoteric and not easily understood, leaving most people, including many clergy, to react viscerally to its basic premise. Confusing matters was that the few theologians in his intellectual circle  including William Hamilton, Paul M. Van Buren and Rabbi Richard Rubenstein  did not agree among themselves on how God had died, why he had died or what his death meant. They were essentially writing God out of the picture, but they did not consider themselves atheists; Dr. Altizer called himself a Christian atheist, further muddying the waters.

He was one of the countrys most hated, misunderstood, radical and prophetic voices of the past century, said Jordan E. Miller, who taught religion at Stonehill College in Massachusetts, wrote articles with Dr. Altizer and considered him a mentor.The great stagnation of living standards is a defining problem of our time. Most families do not enjoy the rapidly rising level of living that Benton called for. Understandably, many Americans are anxious and angry.

The solution will need to involve a return to higher taxes on the rich. But its also worth thinking about pre-tax incomes  and specifically what goes on inside corporations. Its worth asking the question that Benton asked: What kind of corporate America does the rest of America need?

Elizabeth Warren, the Massachusetts senator, is now rolling out a platform for her almost-certain presidential campaign, and it includes an answer to this question. It is a fascinating one, because it differs from the usual Democratic agenda of progressive taxes and bigger social programs (which Warren also supports). Her idea is the most intriguing policy idea to come out of the early 2020 campaign.

Warren wants an economy in which companies again invest in their workers and communities. Yet she doesnt believe it can happen organically, as it did in the 1940s, because financial markets will punish well-meaning executives who stop trying to maximize short-term profits. They cant go back, she told me recently. You have to do it with a rule.

She has proposed a bill in the Senate  and Ben Ray Lujan, a top House Democrat, will soon offer it there  that would require corporate boards to take into account the interests of customers, employees and communities. To make sure that happens, 40 percent of a companys board seats would be elected by employees. Germany uses a version of this shared-governance model, mostly successfully. Even in todays hypercompetitive economy, German corporations earn nice profits with a philosophy that looks more like William Bentons than Gordon Gekkos.

Is Warrens plan the best way to rein in corporate greed? Im not yet sure. I want to see politicians and experts hash out her idea and others  much as they hashed out health care policy in the 2008 campaign.

But I do know this: American capitalism isnt working right now. If Benton and his fellow postwar executives returned with the same ideas today, they would be branded as socialists. In truth, they were the capitalists who cared enough about the system to save it. The same goes for the new reformers.President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan resigned as leader of her pro-independence party last week after major losses in the countrys local elections. China, which considers Taiwan within its jurisdiction and wants closer economic ties, supports the party that won over voters.

Follow The New York Times Opinion section on Facebook, Twitter (@NYTopinion) and Instagram.If Trump was lying to or misleading the American people about his efforts to do business in Russia while running for president and the Russians knew  and presumably had evidence  that he wasnt being completely honest and forthcoming, then he was compromised.

While it is by no means clear that the Russians ever used any information that they may have had to blackmail or otherwise pressure Trump, Cohens plea makes clear that they had the material to do just that.

This brings ever more clarity to Trumps curious inclination to go soft on Russia condemnation, to take Russian President Vladimir Putins word over that of his own intelligence agencies, and to drag his feet in acknowledging that Russia attacked our election in 2016 and may continue to do so in the future.

How would Americans who support Trump now respond to evidence that Team Trump put their own personal and financial interests over the national interest? Would they break from their blind support and turn away from him and turn on him? How could they justify wearing the blinders for so long and countenancing so much? What language would they use to correct their complicity?

There is a precedent in the Nixon investigation. When the evidence of wrongdoing was clear and incontrovertible, people began to peel away, tails tucked and full of shame.

But that was a different time, one in which media wasnt so fractured and partisan, before the advent of social media and our current dissociable mentalities.Image Credit... Pete Gamlen

Hide Your Phone When Youre Trying to Work. Seriously.

The biggest roadblock to your productivity is the smartphone on your desk.

Dec. 2, 2018

Welcome to the Smarter Living newsletter! Every Monday, S.L. editor Tim Herrera emails readers with tips and advice for living a better, more fulfilling life. Sign up here to get it in your inbox.

As I type this, my iPhone is tucked away inside my desk drawer under lock and key. Its been there all day, completely out of sight. Im slightly anxious about the notifications I might be missing, but only slightly; its a manageable level thats not distracting.

Yes, its a little extreme to lock your phone in a drawer. But Ive learned that its the only way I can truly focus and be as productive as I want to be. And unfortunately, the same is true for you, even if you dont realize it  or want to believe it. (Airplane mode, sadly, wont help  more on that later.)

A 2017 study in The Journal of the Association of Consumer Research found that the mere presence of your phone  even if its powered off, and even if youre actively and successfully ignoring it  reduces available cognitive capacity, which the studys authors call brain drain.The earthquake drew instant comparisons to the one that heavily damaged downtown Anchorage in 1964. That earthquake, the most powerful on record in the United States and the second-strongest anywhere, was magnitude 9.2; it killed more than 100 people and caused a tsunami that destroyed many small towns along the Alaska coast.

Fridays earthquake struck just seven miles from Anchorage, but the fact that it was relatively deep  nearly 30 miles below ground  combined with the rigorous building code enforcement in the region helped mitigate a potential catastrophe. There have been no casualties reported in connection with the earthquake, and only two reports of structure collapse.

And so, even though significant aftershocks continue to awaken people in the night, by Sunday most Alaskans had already started putting the quake behind them.

Teodore Odena, 27, said that the response has been true to Alaska, through and through.

We have tough skin, Mr. Odena said during breakfast at Snow City Cafe in downtown Anchorage. No offense, but you look at the Lower 48, and you hear every time they have a snowstorm. Dealing with the elements, Alaskans have that resilience, we just push forward.

Mr. Odena was on his way to work at the Alaska Department of Fish and Game on Friday morning, and at first he thought he had a flat tire. He realized it was an earthquake when the road started bouncing up and down and the swaying streetlights began to flicker. When he got to his office, furniture had toppled over and had partially blocked a hallway as people were evacuating.Parading a suspect before the media is a storied American tradition. Its called a perp walk. But is it a tradition worth keeping? Its one of the most offensive parts of the criminal justice system. Presumption of innocence? No harm, no foul? [Expletive] Its kind of a weird moment because you know that this person doesnt know this is about to happen. But then, boom! They get out of the car over here and Im waiting for them. How do I make the person look guilty? How do I get a rhythm to the picture? I work for The New York Post. The name of this room is called the press room, and its at the courthouse. People get arrested. Theyre walked out of a precinct. Theyre brought down here to central booking, theyre walked out of a police car at the back door. Its exactly as it was, you know, 75 years ago. That walk in full view of the media is known as the perp walk, a bane for criminal defense attorneys and a boon for tabloid photographers and journalists. The practice, sometimes called the polices blue carpet, became an enduring image in the 1930s, when new camera technology and flash bulbs ushered in the golden age of photojournalism and were used to great effect by J. Edgar Hoover to bolster the reputation of his Federal Bureau of Investigation. Hoover realized the power of the image and wanted to completely show he got his man, because remember, we take the F.B.I. for granted these days, and the F.B.I. was always this pillar of greatness, but he had to build it. It is kind of like, were servants of the public and we were able to get the bad guy. Lee Harvey Oswald, the man accused of shooting President Kennedy, was taken on more than one perp walk, until Jack Ruby emerged from the crowd. Hes been shot. Lee Oswald has been shot! You might have thought that would have ended the practice. But in addition to building a prosecutor or a detectives reputation, showing a suspect in handcuffs helps calm a nervous public. After more than 13 months of following thousands of leads down endless blind alleys, the detectives of the Brooklyn Omega Squad captured the man they say is Son of Sam. New York had that Summer of Sam when you dont know if youre going to turn a corner and there he is and then you flip on your TV, hes arrested and you see the perp walk and I, I know the city had a giant exhale. He had a faint smile as police moved him around the city today from arrest to booking to court, and finally to a mental ward. Sometimes, police arent exactly parading a perp. But reporters will still go to great lengths to get the shot. Les Rose was a cameraman for CBS News in Los Angeles in the 1990s and filmed more than 50 perp walks. One of the most memorable ones is the one I never got. After a full day of chase, O.J. pulls up into the police department behind these high, high walls, and you realize youre gonna get nothing, right? And your bosses do not want to hear that. And then, out of the blue, the mast goes up and then I realized theres a tiny little camera on top of a mast and it didnt belong to CBS and youre thinking, No, say it aint so. Sure as heck, the camera extends and youre watching the mast go. And then it goes down and they got the freaking shot of O.J., you know, coming out of the van and being checked in. And there was a great gnashing of the teeth. And like, Really? We got beat by a, by a truck mast? For New York Post photographer Steven Hirsch, the media scrum is only half the battle. Its not a walk in the park here. This isnt kindergarten, you know. Last week, a couple weeks ago, I think I was beat over the head with an umbrella. Its an occupational hazard. You know, part of the game. [Expletive] Get your hands off me. The whole thing feels like a movie set sometimes. It just doesnt seem real because its so choreographed in a certain way. Staging a perp walk was ruled unconstitutional in 1999 after New York City police arrested a doorman who was accused of stealing and then re-enacted the perp walk at the request of a local news crew who missed it the first time and wanted to film it. Totally violated. I felt like my insides were on an open table for people to examine. The Judge said, because Lauro was not being taken to court, parading him before the cameras had no legitimate law enforcement purpose, humiliated Lauro and violated his rights. But humiliation is often the point. Rudy Giuliani was a U.S. attorney who built a reputation as an equal opportunity prosecutor, going after mob bosses and handcuffing white-collar executives in their own offices. He helped to recreate the, the form, if you would. Whether its insider trading or tax evasion, the overwhelming general rule is that you go to prison. Ben Brafman is a criminal defense attorney and he often has to prep his clients for what theyll experience in a perp walk. You are presumed to be innocent, but youre treated as if youve already been convicted. I call it a, you know, a public display of offensive behavior by the law enforcement community for no purpose other than to satisfy the hordes of tabloid journalists who, you know, live for that shot. Brafman represents Harvey Weinstein and was Dominique Strauss-Kahns lawyer. The leader of the International Monetary Fund, Dominique Strauss-Kahn, pulled off a plane in New York and questioned about a sexual assault. When Dominique Strauss-Kahn came out of the precinct, there were 100 members of the press. The powerful international finance man charged with attacking a hotel maid. Thirty-six hours of being without a shower, disheveled, without a suit and tie. You have a person who was on his way to becoming the president of France. I think that one instance changed his social status. Dominique Strauss-Kahn has stepped down as the head of the International Monetary Fund. And then, the case was dismissed. Criminal charges were dropped, and Strauss-Kahn settled a separate civil suit. But court outcomes have little impact on the lasting image  online  of a perp walk. Dont forget what perp walk means, we have shortened the term so much we forgot what it stands for and its perpetrator. And a perpetrator does not mean suspect  it means you did it. He perpetrated the crime. What if the bad guy is in fact innocent? And because a perp walk is here to stay, whether a persons innocent or guilty can sometimes be just a footnote to history. The perp walks been in place for 100 years. Im not going to change it.There were 15 of them. Most arrived in the dead of night, laid their trap and waited for the target to arrive. That target was Jamal Khashoggi, a prominent Saudi critic of his countrys government and its young crown prince. Since his killing in Istanbul, Turkish media has released a steady drip feed of evidence implicating Saudi officials. Weeks of investigation by The Times builds on that evidence and reconstructs what unfolded, hour-by-hour. Our timeline shows the ruthless efficiency of a hit team of experts that seemed specially chosen from Saudi government ministries. Some had links to the crown prince himself. After a series of shifting explanations, Saudi Arabia now denies that this brazen hit job was premeditated. But this reconstruction of the killing, and the botched cover-up, calls their story into serious question. Its Friday morning, Sept. 28. Khashoggi and his fiancee, Hatice Cengiz, are at the local marriage office in Istanbul. In order to marry, hes told that he needs Saudi paperwork and goes straight to the consulate to arrange it. They tell him to return in a week. It all seems routine, but its not. Inside theres a Saudi spy, Ahmed al-Muzaini, whos working under diplomatic cover. That very day, he flies off to Riyadh and helps concoct a plan to intercept Khashoggi when he returns to the consulate. Fast-forward to Monday night into Tuesday morning. Saudi agents converge in Istanbul aboard separate flights. Muzaini, the spy, flies back from Riyadh. A commercial flight carries a three-man team that we believe flew from Cairo. Two of the men are security officers and theyve previously traveled with the crown prince. A private jet flying from Riyadh lands around 3:30 a.m. That plane is often used by the Saudi government, and its carrying nine Saudi officials, some who played key roles in Khashoggis death. Well get to Team 3 later on, and for now focus on these men from Team 2. This is Salah al-Tubaigy, a high-ranking forensics and autopsy expert in the Saudi interior ministry. Turkish officials will later say his role was to dismember Khashoggis body. Another is Mustafa al-Madani, a 57-year-old engineer. As well see, its no accident that he looks like Khashoggi. And this is Maher Mutreb, the leader of the operation. Our investigation into his past reveals a direct link between Mutreb and the Saudi crown prince. When bin Salman toured a Houston neighborhood earlier this year, we discovered that Mutreb was with him, a glowering figure in the background. We found him again in Boston, at a U.N. meeting in New York, in Madrid and Paris, too. This global tour was all part of a charm offensive by the prince to paint himself as a moderate reformer. Back then, Mutreb was in the royal guard. Now, he would orchestrate Khashoggis killing. And his close ties to the crown prince beg the question, just how high up the Saudi chain of command did the plot to kill go? Early Tuesday morning, Khashoggi flies back from a weekend trip to London. He and the Saudis nearly cross paths at the airport. The Saudi teams check into two hotels, which give quick access to the consulate. Khashoggi heads home with his fiancee. Hed just bought an apartment for their new life together. By mid-morning, the Saudis are on the move. Mutreb leaves his hotel three hours before Khashoggi is due at the consulate. The rest of the team isnt far behind. The building is only a few minutes away on foot, and soon, theyre spotted at this entrance. Mutreb arrives first. Next, we see al-Tubaigy, the autopsy expert. And now al-Madani, the lookalike. The stage is almost set. A diplomatic car pulls out of the consulate driveway and switches places with a van, which backs in. Turkish officials say this van would eventually carry away Khashoggis remains. From above, we can see the driveway is covered, hiding any activity around the van from public view. Meanwhile, Khashoggi and his fiancee set out for the consulate, walking hand-in-hand. In their final hour together, they chat about dinner plans and new furniture for their home. At 1:13 p.m., they arrive at the consulate. Khashoggi gives her his cellphones before he enters. He walks into the consulate. Its the last time we see him. Inside, Khashoggi is brought to the consul generals office on the second floor. The hit team is waiting in a nearby room. Sources briefed on the evidence, told us Khashoggi quickly comes under attack. Hes dragged to another room and is killed within minutes. Then al-Tubaigy, the autopsy expert, dismembers his body while listening to music. Maher Mutreb makes a phone call to a superior. He says, Tell your boss, and The deed was done. Outside, the van reportedly carrying Khashoggis body pulls out of the side entrance and drives away. At the same time, the Saudis begin trying to cover their tracks. While Khashoggis fiancee waits here where she left him, two figures leave from the opposite side. One of them is wearing his clothes. Later, the Saudis would claim that this was Khashoggi. But its al-Madani, the engineer, now a body double pretending that the missing journalist left the consulate alive. Yet theres one glaring flaw: The clothes are the same, but hes wearing his own sneakers, the ones he walked in with. Meanwhile, the van thats allegedly carrying Khashoggis body makes the two-minute drive from the consulate to the Saudi consuls residence. Theres several minutes of deliberations but the van eventually pulls into the buildings driveway. Again, its hidden from public view. Its now three hours since Khashoggi was last seen. The body double hails this taxi and continues weaving a false trail through the city. He heads to a popular tourist area and then changes back into his own clothes. Later, we see him joking around in surveillance footage. Over at the airport, more Saudi officials arrive on another flight from Riyadh. They spend just five hours in Istanbul, but were not sure where they go. Now we pick up Maher Mutreb again, exiting from the consuls house. Its time for them to go. Mutreb and others check out of their hotel and move through airport security. Al-Muzaini, the spy, heads to the airport too. But as theyre leaving Istanbul, Khashoggis fiancee is still outside the consulate, pacing in circles. Shell soon raise the alarm that Khashoggi is missing and shell wait for him until midnight. The alarm spreads around the world. Nine days later, the Saudis send another team to Istanbul. They say its to investigate what happened. But among them are a toxicologist and a chemist, who also has ties to the hit team. He and Tubaigy attended a forensics graduation days before Khashoggi was killed. Turkish officials later say that this teams mission was not to investigate, but to cover up the killing. Now the Saudi story has changed, and prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for several suspects in Khashoggis killing. But that doesnt include Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who many Western government officials are convinced authorized the killing. Khashoggis remains still havent been found.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 3)  Senate Majority Leader Migz Zubiri said there is no more time for the Senate this year to pass possible constitutional amendments in the shift to a federal form of government.

Asked on CNN Philippines' The Source on Monday about the chances of the federalism proposal passing in the Senate, Zubiri said, "We don't have time. We don't even have time on the [2019] budget."

Charter change is not among the list of Senate priority bills, according to a list previously presented to the media by Senate President Tito Sotto.

House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo conceded last week that Congress would not be able act on one of President Rodrigo Duterte's key campaign platforms.

Congress only has nine weeks to tackle bills before it adjourns for the Christmas break. Lawmakers are currently rushing approval of the proposed 2019 budget.

Malacanang acknowledged the Senate's limitations in approving proposed changes to the charter.

"The disposition of the Senate with respect to this proposal should be understood along with its current and tight situation of addressing the 2019 budget with not too ample time to spare," Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

The proposal for a federal government is still with the Senate constitutional amendments committee headed by opposition Senator Kiko Pangilinan. Senators have given Pangilinan's panel the green light to continue its consultative hearings on the matter.

Meanwhile, the House has begun plenary discussions on the proposed draft charter of Arroyo.

CNN Philippines' Senior Correspondent Ina Andolong contributed to this report.WASHINGTON  Just weeks after a bitterly fought election swept Democrats into power in Congress, a Republican president known for reaching across the aisle passed away. Leaders of both parties paid tribute to his civility and bipartisanship, saying the country could use more of that. And then within days of the burial, they went back to their partisan wars.

That was December 2006 and the president was Gerald R. Ford, but Washington seems almost certain to be repeating history now that George Bush has died. The political system has hit pause to honor a president of another era for being everything it no longer is.

The truce that essentially took effect over the weekend only underscores how much Washington and the nation have changed since Mr. Bushs days. The kind of compromises that Mr. Bush cut with a Democratic Congress on deficits, taxes, civil rights and the environment during his four years in office seem almost impossible to imagine in the era of President Trump and the resistance.

As part of the cease-fire, Mr. Trump and Congress appear poised to postpone the spending showdown that had been threatening to close much of the government by the end of this week. But it is likely to be an extension of at most two weeks, leaving the country still uncertain of whether its government will be operating during the holidays. The spirit of comity fostered by the shared mourning of Mr. Bush will almost certainly dissipate within days, if not hours, of his funeral at Washington National Cathedral on Wednesday and his interment in Texas on Thursday.MADRID  Spains governing Socialist party suffered an unexpected election setback on Sunday as right-wing parties won enough votes to oust the Socialists from power in the nations largest region for the first time since the country returned to democracy.

The result in Andalusia was a blow to Pedro Sanchez, Spains Socialist prime minister, who has been in office since June and could now be forced into a snap general election next year.

The Socialists won just 33 of the 109 seats in the regional parliament, according to provisional results released late Sunday, with 94 percent of the votes counted. It was the partys worst result in Andalusia since 1982, when the region held its first election after Spain adopted a new Constitution.

The biggest change for Spains political landscape on Sunday was the emergence of Vox, a far-right party that had never previously made any significant election inroads. The party won 12 seats, according to the provisional results.AMSTERDAM  Johannes Vermeer, whose acute eye captured the quiet beauty of Dutch domestic life, was not a prolific artist: Just 36 paintings are widely acknowledged as his work. Still, anyone who wanted to see them all had to travel far and wide  to New York, London, Paris and beyond.

Until now.

The Mauritshuis museum in The Hague, which owns what is perhaps Vermeers best-known masterpiece, Girl With a Pearl Earring, has teamed up with Google Arts & Culture in Paris to build an augmented-reality app that creates a virtual museum featuring all of the artists works.

For the app, the Metropolitan Museum of Art has contributed images of all five of its Vermeer masterpieces, while the National Gallery of Art in Washington and the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, each with four, have also given photographs of theirs. Two more have come from the Louvre, and three from the Frick Collection. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston has shared an image of The Concert, the Vermeer that disappeared after being stolen from the museums collection in 1990.WASHINGTON  Melissa Peterman, the actress and comedian, scooped up Kristin Chenoweth like a bride, whisking her off the stage as Reba McEntire blew kisses from the balcony.

With a hand over his heart, Lin-Manuel Miranda performed One Last Time from Hamilton, earning a standing ovation as he honored the Broadway musical he created.

And at the sight of Cyndi Lauper, ready to perform, Cher bellowed across the Kennedy Center Opera House, You told me you were going to Los Angeles. (I lied, Lauper yelled back.)

It was all part of the sequined fete at the Kennedy Center Honors on Sunday, where a star-studded menagerie of artists, political leaders and Washington socialites gathered to recognize a handful of artistic titans for their cultural contributions.Nomaden, which was written for the French cellist Jean-Guihen Queyras and the Atlas Ensemble, a group of 18 musicians from Asia, the Middle East and Europe, had its premiere at the Cello Biennale in Amsterdam in 2016, where it was received enthusiastically. It pairs its cello soloist with musicians who play instruments from China (erhu and sheng), Japan (sho and shakuhachi), India (sarangi), Turkey (kemenche), Armenia (duduk), Iran (setar) and Azerbaijan (tar and kamancha).

Nomaden is not a traditional concerto, but a work for cello and instruments from cultures around the world, Mr. Bons said in a statement. I imagined an unlimited potential of combinations and an unheard spectrum of timbres. My aim was to create a piece in which the musicians and the instruments, in all their cultural differences, could bloom in full glory.

Mr. Bons, a professor of composition at the Conservatory of Amsterdam, attributes his interest in music in world music to his parents wide-ranging record collection. In 1980, he was one of the founders of the Amsterdam-based contemporary music group Nieuw Ensemble, and in 2002 founded the Atlas Ensemble. He has championed works by contemporary Chinese composers, and his musical travels have taken him to Syria and Iran.

Marc Satterwhite, a music professor at the University of Louisville who directs the award, cited Mr. Bonss musical juxtapositions in a statement. Art of all kinds is becoming more and more eclectic, juxtaposing materials and influences in increasingly new ways, Mr. Satterwhite said. Nomaden is one of the most successful musical examples of this trend in recent years.

The Grawemeyer has been awarded to some of the most important composers of our time, including Gyorgy Ligeti, Harrison Birtwistle, John Adams, Tan Dun, Thomas Ades, Pierre Boulez, Kaija Saariaho, Gyorgy Kurtag, Brett Dean, Louis Andriessen and Esa-Pekka Salonen, among others. Mr. Bons will accept the prize in Louisville in April.On the morning of July 16, 1964, James Powell, a 15-year-old black student, was shot and killed by an off-duty white police officer on East 76th Street in Manhattan, setting off days of protests and riots.

On Sunday afternoon at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, about half a mile from where the shooting took place, a member of the Young Peoples Chorus of New York City read from Langston Hughess poem Death in Yorkville, inspired by Powells death: How many bullets does it take to kill a 15-year-old kid?

You couldnt help but walk the blocks to 76th Street in your mind as the chorus member spoke the lines.

The performance was part of the soprano Julia Bullocks residency at the Met this season: a series of programs including settings of the words of black artists from the South and fresh versions of traditional slave songs; a reflection on the legacy of Josephine Baker; El Nino, John Adamss exploration of the Nativity story; and Hans Werner Henzes oratorio about a runaway slave.FINDING JOY on Acorn TV. This six-part Irish comedy series written and created by Amy Huberman (Striking Out), who also stars, follows the postbreakup blues of Joy, an uptight woman who tries to keep her orderly life intact after her long-term boyfriend leaves her. That plan quickly goes off the rails when she is promoted and has to fill in for a popular Irish vlogger, Flora the Happy Hunter. The role thrusts Joy out into the world and forces her to find happiness in all sorts of unpredictable, nerve-racking ways.

DEAD AND BURIED (1981) on iTunes, Amazon, Google Play, Shudder and YouTube. A sheriff (James Farentino) teams up with a mortician (Jack Albertson) to investigate a series of murders in a sleepy New England town. The real shock comes when the dead reappear as local townspeople. Mixed messages on trade after the G-20.

Markets in Asia and the U.S. rallied after a truce in the U.S.-China trade war, which both President Trump and President Xi Jinping claimed as wins for their countries.

But optimism was tempered by doubts that the fragile cease-fire would put the dispute between the worlds two largest economies to rest permanently.

The leaders spoke about the move in different ways. Mr. Trump announced in a tweet that China would reduce and remove tariffs on American-made cars, which make up about 1 percent of its market. But its unclear that China had indeed agreed. Above, a car factory in China.Why are we suddenly talking about canned tuna and millennials?

The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that overall consumption of the packaged fish has declined by more than 40 percent in the United States over the last three decades, according to the Department of Agriculture.

Among the reasons that people are less inclined to reach for a can of Bumble Bee: It isnt convenient enough for younger consumers. Many people cant be bothered to open and drain the cans, or fetch utensils and dishes to eat the tuna, The Journal reported.

But the rationale that cut hardest, it seems, was a quotation from a vice president for marketing and innovation for StarKist, one of the big three tuna purveyors.The disclosure took trade watchers and auto industry figures in both countries by surprise. The issue of auto tariffs had not appeared in either governments public statement after the temporary trade-war truce.

It was unclear what China had agreed to do, if it had agreed to do anything at all. A spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry referred questions to the Commerce Ministry. That ministry was silent, and its weekly news conference is not until Thursday. American officials were unavailable for comment.

The confusion is perhaps inevitable. Chinese leaders hoard information as a way of bolstering their political power. Add to that Mr. Trumps predilection for trying to summarize complex issues in Twitter posts of a few words, and the potential for confusion can grow quickly.

China does not import many cars from the United States. American imports are roughly 1 percent of the market, or about $10.5 billion worth. While Chinese drivers love to buy Chevrolets and Fords, those vehicles are generally made in Chinese factories through joint ventures between local and American carmakers.

A concession on auto tariffs could be significant, however. It could suggest that China is willing to bend on the issue of Chinese-made cars, an area of great concern for the White House. The Trump administration worries that China could someday swamp American car lots with Chinese-made cars that could seriously damage the Detroit automakers.BEIJING  China vows to stem the supply of the powerful opioid fentanyl flowing into the United States. It pledges to target exports of fentanyl-related substances bound for the United States that are prohibited there, while sharing information with American law-enforcement authorities.

Such promises, echoed in the recent meeting between the countries presidents, ring familiar.

They first emerged in September 2016, when the Obama administration said China and the United States had agreed on enhanced measures meant to keep fentanyl from coming into the United States. But in its official statements or state media reports made at the time, the Chinese government never specified the steps it intended to take, and its follow-up has been patchy at best.

So when the Trump administration said on Saturday that President Xi Jinping of China had agreed to designate fentanyl as a controlled substance in a wonderful humanitarian gesture, analysts said there was little to cheer about.

Its in many ways all theater from the White House and very little serious substance, said John Collins, executive director of the International Drug Policy Unit at the London School of Economics. It seems to me the same story again.New Orleans has a good track record for celebrating its native cocktails. The drinks are so beloved by locals that there may as well be huge statues of the Sazerac and Ramos Gin Fizz in Jackson Square.

One classic New Orleans cocktail, however, has suffered from neglect. The brandy crusta is a Cognac drink supported by lemon juice, Curacao and maraschino liqueur. But its defining aspects  both very theatrical  are a long lemon twist that snakes inside the glass and a sugared rim (the crusta).

The drink was the invention of the New Orleans bartender Joseph Santini, who served plenty of them at his 19th-century bar, Jewel of the South. Cocktail experts believe that the crusta opened the door for many of the cocktail sours to come, not least of all the Sidecar.

Santini is the guy who was really monumental in the development of cocktails in the state, and hes kind of gotten short shrift, said Nick Detrich, a New Orleans bartender.This week the art and fashion glitterati will breeze into South Florida for the annual ritual known as Miami Art Basel, filling their Rimowa suitcases with the latest resort wear from Gucci, Johanna Ortiz and Eres.

The fair has become a multi-million-dollar boon for the area, driving the creation of glitzy global outposts, including the Design District (where stores like Loewe, Fendi and Christian Dior operate) and Brickell City Centre (Orlebar Brown, Giuseppe Zanotti and Kiton).

And it has also spurred an evolution in the citys homegrown aesthetic.

The Miami look has matured, moving beyond (but not abandoning) its night-life-centric platforms, minidresses and tight black tees, as well as its Versace-fied penchant for exuberant flair. The emergent style is casual-luxe and reflective of the multitextured local cultural blend. It is exemplified by Erika and Roma Cohen, who run Alchemist, a local retail outfit turned independent label.And you can understand the thinking, in the current uncertain climate. It worked very well once, why shouldnt it work again? Plus, on the constantly churning fashion hamster wheel, it takes a little creative pressure off designers to constantly make something new and fabulous. Instead, they can give you the familiar and fabulous!

So Donatella did.

The occasion for the Versace trip down memory lane was the brands first pre-fall collection show, its first show in New York and its first show as a member of the Michael Kors family  sorry, the Capri Holdings family (remember, the holding company has been renamed, now that its a group). As a way of announcing Versaces new status and suggesting that, contrary to some fears, being owned by an American company would not make the brand forget its roots, the show was a pretty high-profile statement.

Donatella came to me and said she wanted to do something big, and I was all for it! said John D. Idol, chief executive of Capri, before the show. It was the first Versace show he attended, and he was wearing his first Versace suit (black, slim-cut), as well as a pair of Versace Chain Reaction sneakers (also black, with white soles). He was very excited.

He was standing on the edge of the cavernous former trading floor of the old American Stock Exchange, where the show was held. In the center of the room was another recreation: the hand holding the torch from the Statue of Liberty  but this being Versace, it was gilded. Which was part of a whole ode-to-New-York thing that Ms. Versace saw as important to the collection, as well as being part of an ode-to-female-freedom thing (ditto).Zanele Muholis face is luminous  and framed by a headdress of inflated latex gloves. The image is typical of the Johannesburg-based photographers theatrical self-portraits, where hairstyles, headgear and objects as diverse as a majestic necklace of cowrie shells or a wooden stool worn as a hat or crown suggest multiple personas and layers of historic, cultural and political meaning.

As Muholi has said, you might look at the latex gloves, and think of balloons and play, rather than the constraints of work and domesticity or the need to breathe, to feel deflated. Characteristic of Muholis work, that photograph is about all of these things, and much more.

The image is one of more than 90 self-portraits in Zanele Muholi: Somnyama Ngonyama, Hail the Dark Lioness (Aperture), a monograph accompanying a traveling exhibition organized by Renee Mussai for Autograph ABP in London and now at the Spelman College Museum of Fine Art in Atlanta through Dec. 8. In addition to photographs, the book contains essays, criticism and poems by more than 20 curators, art historians and writers.And she has not stopped baking at home, drawing on her experience in her grandmothers bakeries as a child. She makes cakes for birthdays and special occasions; pineapple upside-down cake is a specialty of hers.

She has not let go of her fashion dream, either. Ms. Hernandez promised herself that by the time she turns 35, she will have returned to her passion. She would like to create a line of dresses for little girls and has already begun sketching again.

In the meantime, she is focused on her job at Google and providing for her children. Her goal is to save a little from every paycheck.

I feel really proud of myself, going through all of that, Ms. Hernandez said. Im in my house. My house looks beautiful. I have my space. And its clean, and it has everything it needs. My kids are good. Theres a fridge with food.In an open letter to the duck, an Audubon.org editor told the Mandarin duck point blank that he wasnt that special.

Because the duck is not believed to have reached the city naturally, birders cant add him on their life list, a record of wild birds that an individual has seen, said Matthew Rymkiewicz, another local enthusiast. He worries about the behavior of the ducks fans. Its a wild animal, he said. So respect it and have boundaries.

When my editors assigned a story about the duck a month ago, his origin was a mystery, and it still is. Mandarin ducks are native to East Asia, not North America, so experts concluded that the duck was likely an abandoned or escaped pet.

While other publications had noted his incongruous presence in Central Park, attention from The Times pushed the bird into superstardom.

Many birders online took issue with the articles description of a fellow birder, David Barrett, who used a soft pretzel to try to coax the Mandarin to the shore and then, when that failed, chased him from one end of the pond with some convincing quacks.

Mr. Sime said that behavior made birders cringe because it went against a widely accepted birder ethical code.

Mr. Barrett, the creator and manager of the Twitter account Manhattan Bird Alert, can be fairly described as the ducks kingmaker. He said his strategies for bringing the duck closer to shore were exceptions, and he has subsequently promoted healthy duck-watching behavior. (But, he added, its not as if he pioneered the idea of feeding bread to ducks.)[What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.]

Weeks after New York City officials were caught off-guard by a freakish November snowstorm, Mayor Bill de Blasio seemed to be caught flat-footed again  this time, by a botched plan to push out his emergency management commissioner, Joseph Esposito.

Firing top officials has not been the mayors strong suit. He rarely does it, even amid scandal. But the handling of Mr. Espositos departure  a three-day misadventure where no one seemed to know whether he had been fired  left even supporters of the mayor publicly challenging the process.

By the end of the night on Monday, Mr. de Blasio answered one question: Mr. Esposito would no longer be in charge of emergency management. But many questions remained  including when Mr. Esposito would actually be gone.

We have started the process of leadership change at New York City Emergency Management, the mayor said in a statement sent after 10 p.m. on Monday. Commissioner Joe Esposito will continue to lead O.E.M. as we conduct a national search for his successor.[What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.]

The mayor of Atlantic City made headlines last month when he was involved in a fight outside a casino that was captured on video. The mayor, Frank Gilliam, was not charged.

But Mr. Gilliam may be facing more serious trouble. Early Monday, federal officials raided his home, removing computer equipment and boxes in an operation that represents another setback for this struggling seaside city.

The F.B.I. was at the mayors home in Atlantic City in an official capacity executing a search warrant, said Doreen Holder, a spokeswoman for the F.B.I.s office in Newark. Ms. Holder said the I.R.S. was also involved in the search, but she declined to offer any other details.The areas we are not sure about, were telling them to continue business as usual, he added. If you feel like you want to get tested, get tested. In the meantime, were going to continue our overall study to make sure what were saying is 100 percent accurate.

But the Natural Resources Defense Council, which sued Newark and the state in June, accusing them of violating federal safe drinking water laws, said the city was downplaying lead levels in neighborhoods, like the East Ward, that were served by the Wanaque. More than a fifth of samples tested at residences served by the Wanaque in the second half of last year yielded levels above five parts per billion.

To hand wave and say theres no problem when there are numbers above the federal threshold, and when they havent taken a recent hard look at how the corrosion control is working, is inappropriate and deeply concerning, said Erik Olson, senior director for health and food for the environmental group.

No amount of lead exposure is known be safe for children, whose mental and physical development can be impaired, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

And many experts say that the federal action level of 15 parts per billion, established in 1991, is outdated and fails to take into account new research on the effects of lead exposure.

Its based on old, old science, said Dr. Jennifer Lowry, a toxicologist at Childrens Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, and chairwoman of the American Academy of Pediatrics council on environmental health. We know so much more now.

Today, Dr. Lowry added, a health-based standard would certainly be below five.

When Newarks filter distribution began, the citys website described water in homes in the East Ward as safe. A week later, the safety reference had disappeared, but language remained stating that residences served by the Wanaque do not require a filter under this program.Catch up: In May, The New York Times ran a series called Unsheltered (Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3) that examined why many rent-regulated apartments disappear every year. The investigation revealed that unscrupulous landlords, disreputable lawyers, weak regulations and inefficient housing courts all played a part.

Other new protections: A landlord caught illegally gutting one apartment would be subject to a city review of all their apartments.

The victims: Practically everybody. The Times reporter Grace Ashford, who worked on the series, told me, Rising rents affect all New Yorkers  when low-income families are pushed out of the only apartments they can afford so that they can be gutted and re-rented for $3,000, nobody wins.

More resources: Heres what renters in New York need to know.

Should undocumented New Yorkers be able to get drivers licenses?

New: Lawmakers and advocates will rally in front of City Hall this afternoon to call for letting undocumented residents get New York State drivers licenses.

Catch up: Twelve states and the District of Columbia allow it. New York does not.

In January, Democrats will take control of Albany and could change the law. But they are not saying whether they will make it a priority.Intercity bus ridership has especially thrived in the New York City region, in part as more buses offer people a wider choice of pickup and drop-off locations and significantly lower fares than trains. The citys strong job market has also drawn long-haul commuters from Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey, upstate New York and elsewhere. In 2018, there were an estimated 22 million intercity bus rides in the New York City area alone, or about a million more rides than in 2014, according to Mr. Schwieterman.

Buses are a solution to the congestion problem since they offer an alternative to driving, said Peter J. Pantuso, the president and chief executive of the American Bus Association, an industry group. But, he added, cities have been slow to invest in new terminals and infrastructure as they have identified they have challenges, but they havent quite figured out how to address them yet.

The Port Authority, the countrys busiest bus terminal, opened in 1950 in part to help reduce congestion. Today, all 186 active passenger boarding areas  spread over three floors in two buildings  are full during peak hours. A larger terminal is planned, though it is years away. For now, 18 bus companies and New Jersey Transit share the terminal.

Megabus is not one of them because its double-decker buses are too tall to fit. So passengers wait to be picked up at a bus stop on the Far West Side where there is no bathroom, food court or shelter from the cold and rain. Still, they keep coming. Since the carrier started in New York in 2008, ridership has tripled, and routes have expanded to 38 cities from six.

Sean Hughes, a spokesman for Megabus, said the carrier has worked to address community concerns about congestion and idling, including offering drivers bonuses for not idling.

Today, there are 118 curbside bus stops in Manhattan, according to the city, of which 66 are clustered between 14th and 59th streets in neighborhoods that are already overrun with cars. In total, the Manhattan stops are used hundreds of times a day by private buses  on a recent weekday passengers were dropped off 946 times and picked up 799 times.[What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.]

Since it opened in 1927, the Strand bookstore has managed to survive by beating back the many challenges  soaring rents, book superstores, Amazon, e-books  that have doomed scores of independent bookshops in Manhattan.

With its 18 Miles of Books slogan, film appearances and celebrity customers, the bibliophiles haven has become a cultural landmark.

Now New York City wants to make it official by declaring the Strands building, at the corner of Broadway and 12th Street in Greenwich Village, a city landmark.

Theres only one problem: The Strand does not want the designation.

Nancy Bass Wyden, who owns the Strand and its building at 826 Broadway, said landmarking could deal a death blow to the business her family has owned for 91 years, one of the largest book stores in the world.[What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.]

In parts of New York City, there are students who can barely read and write in English and have not been taught that dinosaurs once roamed Earth or that the Civil War occurred.

Some of them are in their last year of high school.

That is the claim made by a group of graduates from ultra-Orthodox Jewish private schools called yeshivas, and they say that startling situation has been commonplace for decades.

Over three years ago, Mayor Bill de Blasios administration opened an investigation into a lack of secular education at yeshivas that serve about 57,000 students in the city, but the probe essentially stalled almost as soon as it began. The reason, advocates say, is the citys politicians, including the mayor, are fearful of angering the Orthodox Jewish community that represents a crucial voting bloc in major elections.

Then the state stepped in with the most significant action yet in the probe. MaryEllen Elia, the state education commissioner, released updated rules on Nov. 20 dictating how nonpublic schools like yeshivas are regulated and what students in those schools should learn, with consequences for schools that do not comply.Robert Plotnik, a lapsed lawyer better known as the namesake of Bleecker Bobs Records, a Greenwich Village vinyl mecca that survived the dawning of cassettes, CDs and downloading and the death of CBGB, the nearby club where punk rock was cradled, died on Thursday in Manhattan. He was 75.

The cause was kidney failure, his partner, Jennifer Kitzer, said. He had been incapacitated since having a stroke in 2001.

Bleecker Bobs was immortalized in a 1993 episode of Seinfeld (when Kramer and Newman fail to make a windfall selling used records there), in the opening credits of Saturday Night Live, and in Colson Whiteheads 2009 novel, Sag Harbor. It was also where a customer named Patti Smith met a record salesman named Lenny Kaye more than 40 years ago and invited him to accompany her on guitar at a poetry reading. Hes been accompanying her ever since.

Bleecker Bobs is a perfect example of the funky, idiosyncratic little Greenwich Village institutions that had enormous impacts on culture in the 1960s and 70s, John Strausbaugh, the author of The Village: 400 Years of Beats and Bohemians, Radicals and Rogues (2013), said in an email. The dank basement clubs where Dylan and Hendrix were discovered, the tiny storefront theaters that nurtured Off and off-off-Broadway theater, and in this case the used record store where punk rock was born.So I proceeded as one does these days: tsk-tsking various columns of yours, occasionally snarking about you on Twitter, and ascribing to the belief that The New York Timess decision to hire you was most likely bad for America and the future of liberal democracy.

But I always had this nagging feeling that the Bari Weiss cyber outrage was overblown. Then, we became friends, and every tender thought Id had about you was confirmed.

BARI: I was scared of you. Or rather, you were like the caricature of the person I know hates me on the internet: Gawker Media alum, probable Democratic Socialists of America member, many tattoos. Thats like my personal axis of evil.

Then we ended up at the same conference , and you asked if I wanted to hang out.

I thought there was a solid chance you were going to try to James OKeefe me, which is why I suggested swimming  quite hard to wear a wire in a bathing suit  but it ended up being really fun. We talked almost nothing about politics, but about relationships and love and how we grew up.

The other thing that was sort of strangely serendipitous : The night before I had had a horrible experience with two other people at the conference who confronted me in a bar about my views in a particularly vicious way that was intended to humiliate me. I was shaken up by it.

You had actually heard about it from the guy involved, who was bragging to you about bullying me, thinking he had come upon someone like-minded. In a way, this was perfect timing for me to meet you because I allowed myself to be vulnerable and to talk about it with you.

EVE: We also connected over our Jewish upbringings, being women writers, and finding common ground over the absurd aspects of internet outrage culture. Social media has the tendency to flatten people. It gives us the ability to immediately post any passing thought, which doesnt lend itself to thoughtfulness or nuance. Not only can someone become a caricature of her stupidest tweet, but it creates an environment in which the most bombastic, aggressive takes about the hot topic of the day get the most engagement. Feuds flourish; offering the benefit of the doubt to another person is a sign of cowardice, or of not being sufficiently moral.Turning Point: The Trump administrations zero tolerance policy on immigration, which requires that any person crossing the border illegally be prosecuted, results in the separation of thousands of children from their families.

The audio went live at 3:51 p.m. on June 18, 2018.

Obtained from a source who risked being fired for releasing it and published by ProPublica, the investigative journalism nonprofit, the recording captured 10 Central American children pleading with agents and consular workers at a United States Customs and Border Protection facility.

The children had been separated from their parents and families as part of the Trump administrations zero tolerance policy of prosecuting everyone apprehended crossing the United States-Mexico border illegally. The audio is seven minutes and 47 seconds of children crying. Again and again, over and over, Mami! and Papa! A 6-year-old Salvadoran girl begs someone to call an aunt whose number she has memorized. Over their cries, a Border Patrol agent can be heard joking. Well, we have an orchestra here, he says grimly, chillingly. What were missing is a conductor.

All of us, to varying degrees, display ignorance about some of the worlds problems. Sometimes we are simply unaware of the suffering of those around us. Other times we are willfully ignorant, choosing, for one reason or another, to deny or ignore some difficult or painful reality. We all have our reasons and our alibis.To the Editor:

Re A Peaceful Exit, but First, One Last I Love You, Too (news article, Dec. 2):

The irony that President George H.W. Bush died peacefully at the age of 94 on the eve of World AIDS Day should not be overlooked. Peter Bakers touching account of the presidents final days and passing, described by Mr. Bushs pastor as a very graceful, gentle death , belies the suffering and anguish endured by so many of those who died prematurely of AIDS during his administration.

Mr. Bushs appalling indifference to the epidemic spurred one activist, Mark L. Fisher, to describe his impending death from AIDS in 1992 at age 39 as a political assassination . So while it is understandable to extol the life of Mr. Bush, we must also remember to honor the memory of those thousands of AIDS victims who died on his watch.

Sarah A. Lichtman

Brooklyn

To the Editor:

With a lump in my throat reading the dozens of stories being shared about 41, the amazing George Herbert Walker Bush, the one small thing that brought tears was learning that his longtime friend James A. Baker III was there till the end, holding his hand and rubbing his feet.

There were things I didnt like about Mr. Bakers politics through the years, but what a selfless and loving and beautiful thing to do for a friend.To the Editor:

Last week I was being of no help to my son and his science homework when my mom called to tell me about Michelle Goldbergs Nov. 27 column, Maybe Theyre Just Bad People.

Ms. Goldberg mulls over my political memoir, Life of the Party: A Political Press Tart Bares All . The book is an accounting of the 15 years I spent in the trenches of the white-male-dominated industry of Republican politics, ultimately ascending to the role of spokeswoman for the former director of the Christian Coalition, Ralph Reed. Given that Im Jewish, pro-choice and pro-gay rights, my story is unconventional. Thats why I told it.

A memoir isnt an act of narcissism. Its a documentary, a snapshot in time in which the contract with the reader is to tell the truth. I exposed the good, the bad and the ugly  and a couple of, um, activities no one wants to talk to ones mom about. I pointed the spotlight into the darkest corners of a world very few have seen.

Its impossible for a memoirist to discover who she is when shes in the middle of her own story. Only now, 24 years later, do I understand the complicated relationships that I had with politics. And Im very cool with that.In 17th and 18th century Europe, the rise of egalitarian ideals created the need for a scientific account of womens inferior status. Thus was born gender biological complementarity  the notion that, as historian of science Londa Schiebinger explains in The Mind Has No Sex, Women were not to be viewed merely as inferior to men but as fundamentally different from, and thus incomparable to, men. It has been with us in one way or another, roping in science to explain the gender status quo, ever since.

At its core is the persistent belief that mens and womens natures can be usefully and meaningfully carved into two categories or natural kinds, that are distinct, timeless, and deeply biologically grounded. Todays version of this idea continues a centuries long quest to find the source of this hypothesized divergence in abilities, preferences, and behavior in the brain: You can find this notion at work, for instance, in popular books like John Grays Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus in the 1990s, Louann Brizendines The Female Brain and The Male Brain the following decade, and last years Results at the Top: Using Gender Intelligence to Create Breakthrough Growth by Barbara Annis and Richard Nesbitt.

But a version of the same assumption is also sometimes subtly present in scientific research. Consider, for example, Cambridge University psychologist Simon Baron-Cohens influential Empathizing-Systemizing theory of brains and the accompanying extreme male brain theory of autism. This presupposes there is a particular systemizing brain type that we could meaningfully describe as the male brain, that drives ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving that distinguish the typical boy and man from the typical empathizing girl and woman.

Or consider studies that report sex differences in brain structure in terms of two different classes of brains. Thus, a globally publicized study by Madhura Ingalhalikar and colleagues on the human connectome  that is, the enormous set of connections between the different regions of the brain  which concluded that male brains are structured to facilitate connectivity between perception and coordinated action, whereas female brains are designed to facilitate communication between analytical and intuitive processing modes.There are bad doctors just like there are bad plumbers

I am an obstetrician and this is an exceedingly important topic, one that many people are passionately devoting their lives to correcting. I believe that the system we work in is flawed from top to bottom, in ways that create serious gaps for low-income and low-resource patients. But I fear the author is doing a disservice to this topic by equating these particular terrifying outcomes with poor care by doctors. These anecdotes dont highlight this crisis particularly well and only fan the flames of the anti-medicine, anti-doctor rhetoric that gets in the way of caring for people. There are bad doctors just like there are bad plumbers, but its the system that is failing people, not the individuals.  MMS, Cambridge, Mass.

I have my living child because of, not in spite of, medical science

As a mother who recently gave birth, I am of two minds about this issue. Having seen many women of my generation flippantly reject medical care to give birth in their living rooms with midwives with little training, and others who feel guilt for years for having succumbed to C-sections, having failed at the ideal, natural birth, I wish that we could get over the medical-establishment-as-villain narrative. Ive had seven pregnancies and have one living child. I have my living child because of, not in spite of, medical science.  Amv, New York

My wife would have died if shed determined her own care path

The idea that women know whats best in some natural way is wrongheaded. My wife would have died if shed made the now routine choice to determine her own care path and have the baby at home. This feels akin to the vaccine craze, something thats been safe for so long but now people dont feel the danger associated with deviating from the well-worn path.  John McDavid, Nevada

Women die from a lack of high-tech interventions

Women dont need more doulas, midwives or listening to, although all of those things can be beneficial. The two greatest threats to womens health in and after childbirth are a doctors low index of suspicion of symptoms that could indicate underlying injuries and a reluctance  or inability  to deploy high-tech interventions in a timely fashion. Thats why California has had success in reducing maternal mortality. Theyve gone back to basics, recognizing that childbirth has always been, in every time, place and culture, one of the leading causes of death of women and that only technology used liberally can reduce that death rate.  Amy Tuteur, M.D., Boston

All of this is isolating

Women are routinely not listened to or believed, especially black women, whose maternal mortality rates are 3.5 times higher than white women, as the author points out. Postpartum anxiety and depression, traumatic birth injuries, an abysmal lack of paid parental leave, judgment from family members, all of this is isolating, as well as physically and mentally debilitating.  New Mama, Massachusetts

Pointing out poor prenatal care is not blaming the victim

I am a physician and I have no doubt that the problems with obstetric care described are real and in need of correction. However, conditions for an optimal outcome for mother and baby start much earlier in pregnancy, if not before. Many women, particularly those who are poor or in a minority, have other adverse factors like poor nutrition, teen pregnancy and substance abuse, to name a few. Pointing this out is not blaming the victim, but rather showing the need for a vigorous public health response and universal access to family planning and prenatal care.  Hoarbear, PittsburghRevisionism is not just a societal trend, though. It is law. Comparing the crimes of Nazi Germany to those of the Soviet Union is forbidden. A law against the rehabilitation of Nazism, signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2014, for example, punishes people for spreading intentionally false information about the Soviet Unions activities during World War II and desecrating symbols of Russias military glory. Even suggesting that the Nazis and the Soviets collaborated at all during the war is enough for a fine.

The legislation is reminiscent of the amended version of Polands memory law signed by President Andrzej Duda in February 2018 (and later modified after public outrage). The amendment targeted those who accused the country of complicity in the crimes committed by the Third Reich on Polish soil. Critics warned that Mr. Dudas government could exploit the laws ambiguity to punish his enemies.

Eventually, international and internal pressure forced Polish lawmakers to backpedal and rescind criminal penalties for violators of the legislation. The outlook is worse in Russia, where Mr. Putins anti-Nazi law has already been used against anti-government activists.

After unknown assailants splashed the face of the Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny with an antiseptic green dye, one of his supporters shared on social media a Photoshopped image of a World War II monument in the city of Volgograd covered in green paint. It was enough to place the man under house arrest for desecrating a symbol of Russian military glory.

Image Alisa Ganieva Credit... Greg Baal

One of the greatest dangers in Russias experiments with revisionism is that it pushes the most painful chapters of its history into the shadows. Sandarmokh, a gloomy place in the woods of northern Russia, stands as a particularly illustrative case. In 1937 hundreds of innocent people were killed there during Stalins purges. Since the discovery of a burial ground at the site in the 1990s, people have gathered there every year for a memorial honoring the victims. In the summer of 2018 I was there too.

There was no stage, just a makeshift podium and a sound amplifier. Not a single local official was in attendance. Yuri Dmitriev, the historian who had uncovered the site of the tragedy, sat in jail, charged with the sexual assault of his adoptive daughter. Mr. Dmitrievs supporters say the case was fabricated to punish him for his work casting light on Soviet crimes. As we listened to a speech, a nearby squad of Cossacks in full attire shouted at those of us who had convened for the commemoration. What are you talking about? Stop this fascism! they yelled before marching away.

A few weeks later, the Russian Military Historical Society started excavations at the site. The organization, a government initiative founded in 2012, is set on proving that at least some of the bodies buried there belong to Red Army soldiers gunned down by the Finns during the Winter War. It seems as though Russia is not yet ready to acknowledge the dark pages of its history. Rather than take responsibility for its past, it just keeps reliving it. And this makes it so much more difficult to escape to the future.Trump has been good for Beijing. Domestic American political paralysis, the dilution of American moral authority, Trumps rejection of the Trans-Pacific Partnership and the withdrawal from the Paris climate accord  all this has favored China, now the world leader in renewable energy. Its advance is steady and relentless. In Europe, from Greece to Serbia, China is pursuing its Africa model: buy up whatever it can to control resources and infrastructure.

Trump has picked a fight over trade, and he has some legitimate grievances, but his failure to develop a coherent geostrategic policy to confront China makes the tariff fight look like his usual petulance. The presidents strange embrace of Kim Jong-un in North Korea also reinforces Chinas position. The president shows weakness and makes concessions, while getting nothing tangible in return. Even a withdrawal of American troops from the Korean Peninsula is not unimaginable. That would be very much to Chinas liking, as well as an act of dangerous folly.

Chinese expansionism under Xi and North Koreas unpredictability imbue East Asia with some of the tensions of Europe during the Cold War. The clash between the United States and China over unfair trade practices at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit was so severe that no communique was issued, a first since the meetings began a quarter-century ago. Still, I believe that Chinas quest for regional and global stability to complete its rise by 2050 will contain its confrontation with the United States short of any military clash.

Such limits on war are likely reinforced by technology, despite the uses that authoritarian societies like China and Russian have made of it. We are not in the world of the first half of the 20th century.

Trump and other nationalists use many of the methods of fascism  scapegoating, xenophobia, nationalist mythologizing, mob mobilization  but the forces favoring open societies are far stronger than they were a century ago. Walls are going up everywhere, and China has demonstrated that the internet can be controlled, but the spread of ideas and idealism is not easily held in check. Even a really terrible American president such as the incumbent cannot easily send the world over a cliff. This is where the hope of the 21st-century lies  not in nations, Trumps obsession, but in people and networks.

The vitality of the American press demonstrates some of the limits on Trumps power. His attacks on American institutions, including the Justice Department, and on the nations best media outlets has spurred a growing awareness of the need for tough investigative journalism  and thats not free. Online subscriptions to newspapers, including The New York Times, have soared. That is the good news.

The bad news is that Trumps phrase fake news has taken hold. You hear it all over the world. Journalists are attacked with greater impunity  that word again  because Trump has declared open season on them and their profession. The vile murder of the Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul is just the most egregious example of this.On Nov. 13, Jack Dorsey, the chief executive of Twitter, met with several female journalists and activists in New Delhi to talk about online safety in India. Female journalists and activists from religious and cultural minorities face relentless harassment and abuse on Mr. Dorseys platform. The meeting with Mr. Dorsey and other Twitter executives was aimed at helping them better understand the magnitude of the problem in India.

My colleague Sanghapali Aruna, who runs Project Mukti, an organization that leverages technology to empower Dalits to fight caste prejudice, was among the attendees. Dalit, which means oppressed, refers to the caste of people who suffer the greatest violence, discrimination and disenfranchisement under Indias caste apartheid that structures Hindu society.

When Ms. Aruna met Mr. Dorsey she had already left the platform, fearing for her safety following a Twitter doxxing incident after which she was confronted and threatened. As she shared her experiences of discrimination and intimidation on Twitter, Vijaya Gadde, the companys head of legal, policy, trust and safety, openly wept. Dalits and another Indian minorities are regularly harassed on, if not forced off, Twitter by right-wing troll armies.

Twitters position as a platform for political discourse in India was cemented after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party famously used social media during his campaign in the 2014 national elections. Since Mr. Modi came to power, his followers have been conveying positive messages about his government, often using doctored images.What is an appropriate punishment for a crime? The plight of thousands of Vietnamese refugees convicted of crimes in the United States and now threatened with detention or deportation demands an answer to this question.

For most of the four decades since the Vietnam War ended, refugees fleeing the Communist government in Vietnam have been treated differently from those refugees from most other countries. If they committed felonies, they would not be deported.

This exception tacitly acknowledged the weight of history: These refugees came here because American forces fought a devastating war in their home country, the Republic of Vietnam, or what Americans called South Vietnam. The exception recognized that America owed a measure of compassion to those who lost their homeland in the wake of the Communist invasion of the South, and the United States military intervention to resist it.

All that began to change under Donald Trump. Mr. Trump has set his sights on deporting more than 8,000 permanent residents from Vietnam, most of whom had fled the war and had been protected from removal despite their crimes. Mr. Trumps efforts drew sharp criticism not only from Vietnamese-Americans , but also his own ambassador to Vietnam, Ted Osius, who eventually resigned from the State Department in protest.When my husband and I give money to support our church, were underwriting an organization we benefit from our selves . Were saying, I value this institutions importance to my spiritual life. For us, supporting our church is exactly like supporting NPR because we listen to All Things Considered on the way home from work or contributing to a fund-raising drive at our own childrens school. And while supporting those organizations is hugely important, donating to them is not the same thing as contributing to charity, at least not as that word is widely understood.

I was hungry and you gave me food, Jesus taught his disciples. I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me. When the disciples objected that they had done no such thing, Jesus was very clear about his relationship to people who are suffering. Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.

Thats why many Christian churches work hard to alleviate suffering, and member donations certainly underwrite those efforts. But outreach to the needy represents only a small portion of most church budgets. And there are other aid organizations whose sole purpose is to alleviate misery in all its guises  suffering caused by poverty, illness, abuse, natural disaster, cultural upheaval, climate change. (In the context of a suffering planet, an organization like the Natural Resources Defense Council can surely be seen as a kind of global Doctors Without Borders.) Aside from all the usual satisfactions of giving, and they are many, the way you know youre donating to a true charity is that it doesnt benefit you personally.

Im not saying that people should pass an empty collection plate down the pew. Im saying that if those of us who are living in red states want to earn the right to call ourselves the most generous people in America, well need to rethink the whole nature of tithing.

While were setting aside money to support our churches, well need to set aside even more for Doctors Without Borders, so it can bring medical care to war-torn areas of the world. Well need to set aside even more for the International Rescue Committee, so it can care for displaced people around the globe. Well need to set aside even more for AmeriCares and Direct Relief, so they can help victims of natural disasters. Well need to set aside even more for the local food bank, so it can feed our hungry neighbors.

The list of needs goes on and on and on. Every day, it seems, the world becomes unbearably harder for huge swaths of humanity. Millions of our fellow human beings are starving. Millions of our fellow human beings are dying of preventable diseases. Millions of our fellow human beings are refugees, fleeing war and crime and the ravages of a changing climate. We cant feed or clothe them in the sanctuary of our own churches, but we can contribute to aid organizations that know how to help. (Check Charity Navigator for a list of the most effective nonprofits in each area of global concern.)

New changes to the United States tax code mean that only about 10 percent of taxpayers will itemize their deductions this year, and that change is widely expected to cause charitable donations to drop by $16 billion to $17 billion. Thats a dramatic  and traumatic  reduction in aid exactly when more and more people find themselves in tremendous need. But it wont happen if were thinking about charity the right way: not as a tithe or as tax benefit but as a lifeline for others.

Follow The New York Times Opinion section on Facebook, Twitter (@NYTopinion) and Instagram.[Follow the OSIRIS-REX missions attempt to collect samples from Bennu asteroid.]

Launched two years ago, NASAs Osiris-Rex spacecraft pulled alongside the asteroid Bennu on Monday. Its mission is to survey the asteroid ahead of retrieving pristine bits of the solar system from the rocks surface and then bringing them back to Earth in the years ahead.

With a short engine burn, the spacecraft matched the speed and direction of Bennu.

A few minutes after noon, Javier Cerna, a communications systems engineer at Lockheed Martin, which built and operates the spacecraft, announced, We have arrived.

What does NASA mean by arrive?

Osiris-Rexs arrival at Bennu was not like the landing of NASAs InSight spacecraft in one piece on the surface of Mars last Monday. (Happily, it landed flawlessly.)

By contrast, Osiris-Rex pulled in at a modest speed, and the moment of arrival was somewhat arbitrary. The spacecraft started the approach phase of its mission in August when it was 1.2 million miles from Bennu. On Monday, it was just 12 miles away, although still too far away to orbit the asteroid.Q. Why do winds travel clockwise around high-pressure centers and counterclockwise around low-pressure centers? Is it different in the Southern Hemisphere?

A. Wind travels from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure. Thus, the direction of the surface wind in a high-pressure weather system is basically outward, away from the system toward lower pressure. The winds direction in a low-pressure system is inward.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the turning of the earth on its axis results in deflection of the wind to the right. This is called the Coriolis effect, after Gustave-Gaspard Coriolis, the French scientist who first described it in 1835.

If the wind is moving inward, its deflection to the right results in a counterclockwise motion. If the winds motion is outward, the result is a clockwise spiral.

The effect is the opposite below the Equator, in the Southern Hemisphere. But meteorological authorities emphasize that this effect is only reliably seen in large-scale air masses. Small whirlwinds can spin in either direction, just as water spiraling down a drain can go in either direction, no matter which hemisphere the observer is in.A friend of mine, a fellow fact-checker, recently described how strange it is to be one of us right now. Two years ago even family members didnt know what our work entailed; now were getting thanked by strangers for upholding the foundations of liberal democracy.

Fact-checking is a very particular, very quiet profession. Were the invisible spelunkers sent deep down into the story. We call back subjects; we confirm the spelling of names; we make sure we arent saying cement when we should say concrete. Sometimes our job amounts to much more than that, but it never comes with a byline. Its a job thats traditionally meant to happen offstage, my friend said.

When John DAgata and Jim Fingals The Lifespan of a Fact came out in 2012, it was unlikely material for a book, let alone a Broadway play. The slim volume is a quasi-Talmudic exchange, the text of Mr. DAgatas essay framed by snide disputes with his fact-checker, Mr. Fingal, in the margins.

I wasnt yet a fact-checker at the time, but Lifespan left a bad taste. How could a writer be so surly, so unkind to the person assigned to help him? Its a deliberate parody, but not an equal one. Mr. DAgata frames himself as a grandiose, dont-you-dare-unweave-my-rainbow-type Byronic villain; Mr. Fingal frames himself as a pedant. Its clear who the hero is supposed to be.Incited by an impending rise in the gas tax and other economic issues, protesters in Paris, known as Yellow Vests for the neon yellow road workers safety vests they wear, have been rioting, looting and setting cars on fire for the past three Saturdays. Heres what travelers to Paris can expect as a result of the turmoil, and some resources for travel advice and protection.

What areas have been affected?

Yellow Vest protests have occurred around the country, but have been concentrated in Paris, mostly on Saturdays.

Though protest areas may shift, they have focused on the Champs-Elysees, the Elysee Palace and other areas in the First, Eighth, 16th and 17th arrondissements. At least 13 metro stations were closed ahead of the protests last Saturday. Some cultural institutions near the demonstrations were closed pre-emptively on Saturday, including the Arc de Triomphe and the Grand Palais, while others, like the Musee de lOrangerie, closed some entrances.

For now, the museums, shops and metros that were affected have all reopened, but protests, possibly violent ones, could continue on future Saturdays and force the shutdown of transportation, institutions and services.If part of a hospital stay is to recover from a procedure or illness, why is it so hard to get any rest?

There is more noise and light than is conducive for sleep. And nurses and others visit frequently to give medications, take vitals, draw blood or perform tests and checkups  in many cases waking patients to do so.

Some monitoring is necessary, of course. Medication must be given; some vital signs do need to be checked. And frequent monitoring is warranted for some patients  such as those in intensive care units. But others are best left mostly alone. Yet many hospitals dont distinguish between the two, disrupting everyone on a predefined schedule.

Peter Ubel understands the problem as both a physician and patient. When he spent a night in the hospital recovering from surgery in 2013, he was interrupted multiple times by blood draws, vital sign checks, other lab tests, as well as by the beeping of machines. Not an hour went by without some kind of disruption, said Dr. Ubel, a physician with Duke University. Its a terrible way to start recovery.FAIRBANKS, Alaska  The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most pristine landscapes in the United States. But that may soon change as the Trump administration seeks to exploit an untapped trove of oil b eneath its coastal plain.

Since Congress approved a measure last December to open the coastal plain to oil exploration, the Department of the Interior has been charging ahead with a plan to sell drilling leases as early as next year. Trucks weighing 90,000 pounds could begin rolling across the tundra even before then to conduct seismic tests that help pinpoint oil reserves.

The hurried approach has alarmed some government specialists and environmentalists, who say that risks to wildlife and damage to the tundra are not being taken seriously enough. And it comes as the Trump administration moves more broadly to exploit fossil fuels in Alaska and beyond, erasing restrictive policies that were designed to protect the environment and address global warming.

The New York Times examined how, in the space of about a year, the refuges coastal plain  known as the 1002 Area  went from off-limits to open for business. Here are six takeaways.California has one of the largest homeless populations of any state in the country  about 134,000 people, according to a 2017 Department of Housing and Urban Development report  and that population is growing faster than in other states. More than one-quarter of the nations total homeless population is in California.

Butte County alone already had about 2,000 homeless before the Camp Fire, with less than half of them making use of the countys emergency shelters and transitional housing, according to a report by the Butte Countywide Homeless Continuum of Care. Many more choose instead to live on the streets or in tents.

Advocates say that in most cases, the goal of the shelters is to get people into temporary housing, support them on a path to self-sufficiency, and eventually get them settled in a permanent home. Along the way, there are fundamental issues to address, like mental illness, addiction and lack of income. But one of the biggest barriers to ending homelessness in Butte County is a dire shortage of available, affordable rental housing.

The death toll from the fire stands at 88, with the number of missing at 25 as of Sunday, according to the Butte County Sheriff Department.

Before the Camp Fire, the county had a housing vacancy rate of just 1 to 2 percent, much lower than the 2 to 5 percent needed in most healthy housing markets, according to Jennifer Griggs, the Continuum of Care coordinator. After the fire, not only did all of that vacancy rate get swooped up right away, but now its even more of a challenge to find any type of housing for anybody, regardless of their housing status prior, she said.Does Mr. Baumans resignation signal anything broader about the party or Californias political culture? And how likely is it that his resignation will pave the way for change?

There is a lot of talk now that the kind of easygoing, roughhouse culture of a political committee  a culture that Mr. Bauman, who was very much a creature of the Bronx, reflected  will have to change. I think we can expect that to be a top pledge of whomever takes over the job.

What about politically? Does the Bauman exit tell us anything about where the party might be going?

Mr. Bauman squeaked into office by about 60 votes out of 3,000 votes cast. He was widely viewed as too moderate  and too old-school in his political tactics  for many in the party. His closest rival was Kimberly Ellis, a San Francisco Democratic activist and one of the leading contenders to succeed him.

Keep in mind: The California Democratic Party is clearly more liberal than the states overall Democratic electorate. The party refused to back Senator Dianne Feinstein for re-election, supporting instead her more liberal challenger, Kevin de Leon, a state senator. She won handily. So we should be careful in drawing broad lessons about the politics in California from whomever is elected to succeed Mr. Bauman when the party convenes in San Francisco on May 31.CHICAGO  Inside a cramped and worn courtroom, three white police officers are on trial in connection with the fatal shooting of a black teenager, Laquan McDonald. But these officers never fired their guns. Their crime, prosecutors say, was concocting a story to cover up for a colleague who did.

As prosecutors tell it, Chicago police officers shooed away eyewitnesses after the shooting on Oct. 20, 2014, and then made up a narrative to justify the shooting. They said in official reports that the teenager had tried to stab three officers, and that he had tried to get up from the ground as 16 shots were being fired into him.

The only hitch? Dashcam video footage of the encounter contradicted their account.

Patricia Brown Holmes, a special prosecutor trying the three officers on charges of conspiracy, official misconduct and obstruction of justice, told a judge last week: Instead of serving and protecting all citizens of Chicago, the defendants tried to protect only one  Jason Van Dyke, the police officer who was convicted this fall of second-degree murder in the shooting.

On trial along with the officers is the code of silence that police officers across the country have been accused of operating under. In Chicago, the issue has been around for decades, bubbling up in recent years in cases involving a drunk-driving officer, an off-duty officers beating of a bartender and a lawsuit by two police officers who said they faced retaliation after breaking the code.The fate of the refuges coastal plain is in the hands of Ryan Zinke, the Interior secretary, who has appointed top deputies with deep professional and political ties to Alaska to oversee its development. In 2014, two of the appointees were involved in an unsuccessful court challenge to Obama-era policies that had helped keep the area off limits.

Congressional approval to open the area to oil exploration was inserted in tax overhaul legislation last December under the guise of generating revenue for the federal government, and by next year, the Interior Department expects to begin selling the first drilling leases.

The hurried timeline has created friction, with some specialists in the federal government concerned that environmental risks are being downplayed or ignored. And many outside scientists and environmentalists share the concerns, warning that plans for seismic testing and eventual drilling could harass, injure or kill polar bears and other wildlife.

It seems as though the administration is in a headlong rush to put the drill bit into the coastal plain, said David J. Hayes, a deputy Interior secretary in the Obama and Clinton administrations. Given the virgin territory of the refuge, with the unique wildlife dependency issues, I dont know how you do this in an artificially fast and truncated fashion.

Mr. Zinkes Alaska-friendly appointees, who have long pushed for oil exploration in the coastal plain, say the fears are overstated. They point out that years ago, Congress left open the eventual possibility of allowing development there. Exploration is in the best interest of Alaskans, they say.

I feel like there is a lot of expectations, hopes and dreams from people who I know and love that are riding on this, said Joe Balash, one of the appointees, who has worked in Alaskan political circles for two decades and now oversees the Bureau of Land Management.WASHINGTON  A fourth soldier has died as a result of a roadside bomb in central Afghanistan last week, the Pentagon announced on Monday, marking the episode as the single largest loss of American life in the war since 2015.

Sgt. Jason M. McClary, 24, was in the armored vehicle that was hit by Taliban militants in Ghazni Province on Nov. 27. He died of his wounds in Landstuhl, Germany, on Sunday.

Two Defense Department officials said the attack was well coordinated. The bomb was detonated by a trigger man who targeted the American vehicle in the middle of the joint Afghan and American convoy.

The explosion flipped the soldiers mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle, killing Army Capt. Andrew Patrick Ross, 29; Sgt. 1st Class Eric Michael Emond, 39; and Air Force Staff Sgt. Dylan J. Elchin, 25.Brenda C. Snipes, the elections supervisor of Broward County, Fla., whose department has endured blistering criticism for mistakes during the recount in three statewide races in November, has withdrawn her plans to step down after the governor suspended her on Friday.

The reversal over the weekend by Dr. Snipes, an elected Democrat, came hours after Gov. Rick Scott, the Republican who is now the states senator-elect, signed an executive order that stripped her of her position, placed her on leave without pay and appointed one of his former political aides as her replacement. It was among a series of salvos between the public figures in recent days, as Mr. Scott declared that Dr. Snipes must be removed because she had demonstrated malfeasance, incompetence and neglect of duty.

The governor cited a litany of mistakes by her department in recent elections, including its failure to meet the states deadline to submit results of a machine recount of ballots cast in the midterm elections in November. One of the races subjected to a recount included Mr. Scott, who narrowly defeated Senator Bill Nelson, the Democratic incumbent.

After a series of inexcusable actions, its clear that there needs to be an immediate change in Broward County, Mr. Scott said on Friday evening in a statement, and taxpayers should no longer be burdened by paying a salary for a Supervisor of Elections who has already announced resignation.For the next week, former President George Bush will be mourned and honored in Texas, where he lived for most of his life and will be buried, and in Washington, where he spent the most formative years of his political career.

Mr. Bush will be honored with a state funeral, which traditionally consists of three parts for up to 10 days. The former president was celebrated in Texas, his state of residence, before his coffin was transported to ceremonies in Washington. Mr. Bushs coffin will then be returned to Texas for a final funeral and burial.

[The former president will be remembered in a series of memorial services this week. Here are The New York Timess best photos.]

President Trump, in a gesture of respect for Mr. Bushs legacy, ordered all flags flown at half-staff for 30 days beginning last Friday, the day Mr. Bush died. He also designated Wednesday a national day of mourning, ordering all executive departments and agencies to be closed.A congressional race in North Carolina that seemed to be settled on election night was reopened last week amid allegations of absentee ballot fraud. The Republican candidate, Mark Harris, has a 905-vote lead over the Democrat, Dan McCready.

Heres what we know, and what we dont know.

What we know

 The North Carolina State Board of Elections certified election results last week in 12 of the states 13 congressional districts. But it voted unanimously not to certify the results in the Ninth District  where the Republican candidate, Mark Harris, led the Democrat, Dan McCready, by less than half a percentage point  because of absentee ballot irregularities.

 Bladen County, a largely rural county in the district, recorded the states highest rate of absentee ballot requests: 7.5 percent of registered voters, compared with less than 3 percent in most counties. An unusually large number of them, 40 percent, were never returned. Even more, 62 percent, were unreturned in neighboring Robeson County. No other county had an unreturned rate higher than 27 percent. And according to an analysis by The News & Observer, the unreturned ballots  especially in Robeson County  were disproportionately associated with minority voters, who tend to vote for Democrats.

 Mr. Harris won 61 percent of submitted absentee ballots in Bladen County, even though registered Republicans accounted for only 19 percent of the ballots submitted. To do that, he would have had to win essentially every independent who voted absentee, as well as some registered Democrats. In every other county in the district  even strongly Republican ones  Mr. McCready won the absentee vote.He recanted his abortion-rights politics and opinion of supply-side economics as voodoo to be picked as Ronald Reagans running mate in 1980. Eight years later, he painted his Democratic opponent, Michael Dukakis, as a mentally unstable, unpatriotic left-wing radical, an attack that culminated in the Willie Horton ad, an infamous spot even Mr. Trumps dirty trickster Roger Stone called racist.

Even his famous 1988 convention speech pledge  read my lips: no new taxes  was designed to boost enthusiasm for his presidential candidacy among the partys conservative wing.

But when Mr. Bush broke that promise two years later, conservatives never forgave him. The fallout contributed to his re-election loss in 1992. And now, more than a quarter century later, theres little question that the forces that once pulled Mr. Bush to the right have won the battle for the Republican Party.

A number of political scientists have dug deep into years of roll call votes and concluded that Republicans are far more conservative than even a decade ago. Many moderate congressional Republicans, particularly those who opposed Mr. Trump, either lost their re-election bids or retired to avoid rough primary battles.

Thats a shift Mr. Bush felt personally. After his son Jeb Bush lost the Republican nomination in 2015, the former president did not attend the national party convention.

He told the author Mark K. Updegrove that he voted for Hillary Clinton.

I dont know much about him, but I know hes a blowhard. And Im not too excited about him being a leader, Mr. Bush said of Mr. Trump in May 2016, according to Mr. Updegrove.

Mr. Trump will attend Mr. Bushs funeral in Washington this week, but will not give a eulogy.

If Mr. Trumps victory in 2016 was when moderate Republicans lost their final battle, then the midterms may be remembered as their apocalyptic era, leaving them cowering in a bunker as once-loyal suburban voters cast ballots for Democrats.Mr. Lighthizer, who recently brokered the new North American trade deal, is a longtime critic of Chinas trade practices and has repeatedly cautioned Mr. Trump not to accept vague promises that fail to materialize. He will be taking the reins from Mr. Mnuchin, who led previous rounds of negotiations with the Chinese but could not close a deal that satisfied the president.

That choice could rattle the Chinese, who have cozied up to Mr. Mnuchin, viewing him as more moderate.

The greatest amount of expertise in the administration, on trade and China, is held by Bob Lighthizer, said Michael Pillsbury, a China scholar at the Hudson Institute who has been advising the Trump administration, adding that the Chinese have been avoiding Mr. Lighthizer out of fear. The Chinese are wary because they know hes the real deal.

Mr. Trump and Mr. Xi agreed during the Group of 20 meeting in Buenos Aires to pause the trade war between the worlds two largest economies for 90 days and work to address several areas of tension, including the trade gap between what the United States imports from China and what it sells to the Chinese. Mr. Trump, who has hit China with tariffs on $250 billion worth of goods, agreed over the weekend to hold off on plans to raise all the tariffs to 25 percent on Jan. 1 and to impose additional levies on all Chinese imports.

On Monday, the president trumpeted what he has called an incredible deal for farmers and manufacturers, saying they would be first in line to reap the benefits of his agreement.WASHINGTON  President Trump used his Twitter feed on Monday to accuse his former personal lawyer, Michael D. Cohen, of lying under oath and said he should receive the maximum jail sentence as he praised another former adviser, Roger J. Stone Jr., for saying he would never testify against the president.

Mr. Trumps latest Twitter fusillade came after Mr. Cohen pleaded guilty to lying to Congress about the duration of his work for the Trump Organization on a proposed, but never completed, Trump Tower project in Moscow.

In reality, Mr. Cohen testified, the work on the proposal did not end in January 2016, as he had claimed, but lasted until May 2016, when Mr. Trump clinched the Republican nomination for president. The charge was brought by the special counsel, Robert S. Mueller III, who is investigating possible collusion between Mr. Trumps campaign and Russian officials interfering in the presidential election.

In his plea agreement, and in a presentencing memo written by his lawyers in a separate federal case in the Southern District of New York, Mr. Cohen said that he had kept Mr. Trump updated about the project as he tried to expedite the proposal. During the early months of 2016, Mr. Trump had been publicly pushing for warmer relations with Russia, a position that might have benefited his business.WASHINGTON  Former President George Bush made his final journey to the nations capital on Monday, his coffin arriving at the Capitol as the rays of the setting sun washed over the plaza where family and friends stood solemnly during a 21-gun salute that began four days of commemoration of his life and death.

With all the pomp and pageantry of the first presidential state funeral in 12 years, Mr. Bush was welcomed back to the building where he served four years in Congress at the start of a political career that would take him to the heights of power. He will lie in state there until Wednesdays funeral service at Washington National Cathedral.

President Trump visited the Capitol on Monday night to pay respects to his predecessor. The president and the first lady, Melania Trump, arrived in the Capitol Rotunda precisely at 8:30 p.m. and stood in silence before the coffin for two minutes. Mr. Trump clasped his hands before him and closed his eyes before delivering a crisp salute and departing.

[The former president will be remembered in a series of memorial services this week. Here are The New York Timess best photos.]MADISON, Wis.  When Democrats won the governors office in Wisconsin, it was one of the partys most celebrated midterm successes in regaining power in the states. Now Republicans are striking back, moving to slash the power of the new governor even before he takes the oath of office.

Democrats reacted with fury, crowding the halls of the State Capitol in Madison on Monday and accusing the Republicans of trying to undo an election they had lost. It was only the latest such Republican effort across the country to try to use legislative action to counter blows the party suffered at the polls. For Wisconsin, a state that both parties will urgently vie to win in 2020 elections, it was one more sign of the ferocious partisan split that has rippled through the state in recent years.

Its a power grab, said State Senator Jon Erpenbach, a Democrat, before a hearing on the package of bills that includes restrictions on the incoming governors ability to shift how public benefits programs are run, and on his authority to set the rules that determine how state laws are carried out. They lost and theyre throwing a fit.

The long list of proposals Republicans want to consider also includes wide efforts to shore up their strength before Tony Evers, the Democrat who beat Gov. Scott Walker last month, takes office: new limits on early voting, a shift in the timing of the 2020 presidential primary in Wisconsin, and new authority for lawmakers on state litigation. The Republican plan would also slash the power of the incoming attorney general, who is also a Democrat.MANILA  President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines joked on Monday about using marijuana to stay awake at official functions, but the punch line appeared lost on a nation where thousands of people have been killed in his antidrug campaign.

At a ceremony meant to honor diplomats and employees of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Duterte said that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, a regional group known as Asean that includes the Philippines, had a grueling meeting schedule. It was an apparent reference to local news reports that he had missed events at the Asean summit meeting in Singapore last month so he could take power naps.

Mr. Duterte, 73, said that attendance at some meetings should be delegated to the lower echelons or ministerial staff, and that leaders should tackle only the most important ones.

He said that on a recent trip to India, he had stayed up all night because he wanted to catch up on documents, and the more that the crescendo becomes faster, the more you cant sleep because youre catching up on reading.COLOMBO, Sri Lanka  A Sri Lankan court issued an order on Monday temporarily preventing the disputed prime minister from holding office, the latest twist in a political crisis that has paralyzed the island nation.

The Court of Appeal ordered Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and his cabinet to appear on Dec. 12 and to explain on what authority they hold office after Parliament voted against them twice last month. The order prohibits them from conducting government business in the meantime.

Mr. Rajapaksa said in a statement that he did not agree with the ruling and would appeal the decision at the Supreme Court on Tuesday morning.

Sri Lanka has been thrown into political disarray since late October, when President Maithripala Sirisena ousted his prime minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, and replaced him with Mr. Rajapaksa, a decision that was deemed unconstitutional. Mr. Wickremesinghe and Mr. Rajapaksa both claim to be the legitimate holder of the office.This is highhanded and wrong, and we do not like it, Dr. Mahen Wijesuriya, an expert on diabetes and the executive director of the Non Communicable Diseases Alliance Lanka, a nonprofit group in the city of Rajagiriya, said of the revised beverage tax.

Though Mr. Rajapaksa lacks parliamentary support, he can still legally tweak some tax rules outside the normal parliamentary process, EconomyNext reported.

But Dr. Wijesuriya said the decision to reduce the sweetened beverage tax had been made without consulting the countrys medical community. He said the new rule was likely to make sugary drinks more prevalent and contribute to a further spike in the incidence of obesity and diabetes.

Dr. Wijesuriya added that Mr. Sirisena, a former health minister, once backed the 50-cent tax and should have pushed back on any effort by his own cabinet to weaken it.

If he stood by his convictions, he should have avoided this issue by getting the prime minister not to do this kind of thing, Dr. Wijesuriya said in a telephone interview.

Representatives for the offices of the Sri Lankan president and the prime minister did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Monday.

Samantha Mendis-Wedage, a spokeswoman for Nestle Lanka, declined to comment on the sweetened beverage tax. As always, we will continue to comply with the rules and regulations of the country, she said in an email. We are committed to reduce sugar, salt and fat in our products and our work in that direction will continue.BUCHAREST, Romania  Long past midnight, lines of worshipers snake through the central hall of the Peoples Salvation Cathedral, in the heart of the Romanian capital.

The building  set to become the tallest Orthodox church in the world when finished in 2024  is missing its largest dome, and the interior lacks the lavish iconography that Orthodox churches are known for.

But even in its unfinished state, the new cathedral is already being seen as an important symbol for Romania.

Being the national cathedral, it is a big building, a representative one, said Deacon Ionut Mavrichi, a Romanian Orthodox Church spokesman, describing the construction as a soul project.MOSCOW  An American, a Canadian and a Russian blasted into orbit on Monday in the first launch of a piloted Russian Soyuz rocket since a dramatic failure in October, when a booster failed to separate smoothly and the crew plummeted to Earth in an emergency return.

As Soyuz rockets are now the only means for astronauts to reach the International Space Station, Mondays launch was closely watched. Had the rocket not reached orbit, the station might have been left unoccupied for a time.

But the rocket lifted off from the Baikonur spaceport in Kazakhstan on a tongue of flame and flew into space without a hitch, live video of the launch showed.Central European University, founded in Hungary after the collapse of the Soviet Union to champion the principles of democracy and free societies, announced on Monday that it was being forced from its campus in Budapest by the increasingly authoritarian government of Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

The closing of the university, founded by the American billionaire George Soros, came after a nearly two-year struggle with the Orban government, which has quashed dissent and consolidated control over all aspects of Hungarian life. The university will move its United States-accredited degree programs to Vienna in September.

C.E.U. has been forced out, said Michael Ignatieff, the president of the university. This is unprecedented. A U.S. institution has been driven out of a country that is a NATO ally. A European institution has been ousted from a member state of the E.U.

It had been clear for months that the institution would most likely be forced from the country, but Western officials and supporters of the university had hoped to find a last-minute compromise. The university said that effort had failed.On the flip side, if he weighs in with an indictment during the campaign, he could be seen as trying to sway the election. The alternative, however, would be keeping voters in the dark about whether a leading candidate is on the brink of being charged with a crime.

Critics have accused Mr. Mandelblit of foot-dragging in the cases concerning the prime minister. Mr. Mandelblit says he will make a decision as soon as possible.

People Power vs. the Law

If Mr. Netanyahu is indicted, legally he can continue to serve as prime minister while he is a defendant. An accused prime minister is not obligated to resign until a final conviction in court.

But if he were charged, critics would probably petition the Supreme Court to force him to step down. The Supreme Court has ruled that a cabinet minister charged with a crime must step down. The judges would have to decide whether the same standard applied to the prime minister.

If, at that point, Mr. Netanyahu had been re-elected, he could make a political argument to bolster his legal one. That argument, says Amit Segal, the political analyst of the Israeli television News Channel, would be: More than a million voters knew exactly what the charges were against me and yet they elected me again.

Then, the Supreme Court would be faced with the prospect of reversing the will of the voters.

Thats why Netanyahu desperately needs to be re-elected, Mr. Segal said in an interview on Monday. For him, the next election is not only a political challenge. Thats the least of his worries. First and foremost, its a legal one.

There has also been speculation in the Israeli news media over the possibility of Mr. Netanyahu reaching a deal, if he is prosecuted, in which he would step down or not run again in return for avoiding jail time.Mr. Netanyahu broke up his government rather than let that bill become law, he later asserted. But in forming a new, more staunchly right-wing, coalition after his 2015 re-election, he insisted that he be given direct control over the Communications Ministry, Israels version of the Federal Communications Commission.

He immediately fired the ministrys director-general and installed a trusted aide, Shlomo Filber, to do his bidding. And he sought to expand the number of television networks in Israel, ostensibly to promote competition and the marketplace of ideas. But in a country of only nine million people, critics observed, that would also have the effect of slicing up an already tiny advertising pie, weakening the television newsrooms that routinely gave him fits.

Mr. Netanyahu was eventually forced to give up the Communications Ministry. But his tireless efforts to defang negative coverage of him led directly to two of the corruption cases against him. In one, he was recorded bargaining with the publisher of the leading newspaper Yediot Ahronot, whose coverage of him was aggressive and critical, but which was suffering financially from Israel Hayoms growth: If Yediot would ease up on him, Mr. Netanyahu would use his influence with Mr. Adelson to get Israel Hayom to limit its circulation.

That deal was never consummated, but another one was, the police say: Not long after taking control of the Communications Ministry, Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Filber rammed through, over lower-level officials objections, approval for a merger of the countrys biggest telecom and a satellite television network called Yes. The merger was enormously lucrative to the companies controlling shareholder, Shaul Elovitch.

In return, according to the police and the websites journalists, Mr. Netanyahu would receive fawning coverage on Mr. Elovitchs news site, Walla. From that point on, Walla killed embarrassing news articles and splashed flattering photographs of his wife across articles about her that held little news value.

Mr. Filber is now a prosecution witness, as is Nir Hefetz, the public-relations adviser who is said to have relayed Mr. Netanyahus demands to Wallas editors. Ari Harow, the prime ministers former chief of staff, recorded Mr. Netanyahus phone calls with the publisher of Yediot Ahronot, which later ended up in investigators hands.BEIRUT, Lebanon  The tiny, wealthy Persian Gulf state of Qatar will withdraw from OPEC in January, the countrys energy minister said on Monday, hinting that it wanted freedom from an oil cartel dominated by Saudi Arabia, one of its regional rivals.

The minister, Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, said Qatar would focus on its gas industry and dismissed the idea that the withdrawal was connected to politics, but not without taking a jab at Saudi Arabia and its clout in the organization.

Qatar is one of the smallest producers in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, and its modest contributions to the oil market will most likely dampen the effect of its move on prices, which have been battered in recent weeks by fears of a glut.

But the decision by Qatar, whose citizens have the highest per capita income of any country thanks to its status as the worlds largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, to leave OPEC after nearly six decades of membership is nonetheless a blow to the group and a possible sign of tensions within it.Dozens of families in and around the city of Cairns, in Australia, have been forced to temporarily abandon their homes after flying foxes started dropping dead on their properties due to the unbearable heat.

Cairns residents started reporting massive numbers of spectacled flying foxes dropping out of trees on Monday, when temperatures in Australias Queensland region rose to above 40 degrees Celsius. According to animal experts, the nocturnal mammals cannot sustain an internal temperature of over 40 degrees, and with no way to cool off, their organs start to shut down and they eventually die. Wildlife rescuers have been working around the clock, using using spray bottles and drippers too cool off and hydrate the helpless creatures, but theres only so much they can do. The flying fox colonies in the Cairns area have already sustained heavy losses and the number of fatalities is expected to rise for as long as the heatwave continues. But apart from the environmental issues, the massive number of dead bats rotting away so close to peoples houses has now become a become a serious public health issue as well.

Photo: CRye/Pixabay

Some people have reported several thousands dead bats on their properties, and despite authorities best efforts to have them cleaned up, many of them have already started rotting because of the heat, intoxicating residents with the unbearable smell and exposing them to various diseases.



Were talking acres and acres of dead bats, Edmonton resident Pip Schroor told Tropic Now. Last night I drove my kids to Gordonvale to stay with friends because the smell was coming through the air cons and burning our skin, so my walls and sheets are impregnated with the smell.Theyre maggot-ridden and theres blood dripping from the trees.Yesterday I had maggots all over our floor and I couldnt figure out where they were from but we probably have dead bats on our roof. Its a horror movie and its been a horror movie since Monday.



Fellow Edmonton resident Lisa Eagleton described a similar nightmare, with hundreds of bats rotting away in plastic bags and garbage bins that stay out in the sun all day. She also lamented the lack of assistance from the Queensland Council, and praised volunteers for organizing on social media and coming to work in stomach-churning conditions.



Everybody else has palmed us off, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Biosecurity Queensland, Queensland Health, nobody would touch us, Eagleton told Tropic Now. We had to have masks and people were throwing up, they were gagging and theres been no assistance, everyones palmed us off. Its just horrific and its like nobody cares.

One possible reason why many people may be reluctant to get anywhere near the thousands of dead and dying bats is the high risk of infection with deadly diseases. Dr Richard Gair, Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Services Director of Public Health, said that the flying foxes may be infected with Australian bat lyssavirus, adding that anyone cleaning up dead bats should ideally have had a full course of vaccination for rabies, wear adequate protection and use a shovel rather than their hands.

But people like Lisa Eagerton say that they have no choice but to adopt a literal hands-on approach to remove the bats from their properties. Lisa admits that despite taking precautions she has been both bitten and scratched by the dying animals.



I have no choice but to get in there and do it because they are in my backyard and we have pets, we have children, she said. We need help.

Adam Dickter

In the summer of 1992, George H.W. Bush was looking at a difficult re-election campaign. He and Ronald Reagan had accomplished a rare feat: capping off a two-term presidency by winning the White House for a candidate of the same party. Bush was riding high from his resounding victory against Saddam Hussein in Operation Desert Shield, but the economy was pulling out of a recession, and the Democrats had an array of impressive challengers. The President couldnt afford to take any votes for granted.

And so, in August of that year, the Bush Administration, as part of a multifaceted outreach effort, invited a dozen or so journalists from Jewish community newspapers, magazines and newswires for a White House press briefing. I was one of them.

In the interest of full disclosure, I wasnt a typical member of the pack. Only a few years out of college, I had a few bylines under my belt, and had covered the New York City mayoral race of 1989, but I was by no means a national political correspondent. I was there because Alan Tigay, the very kind editor of Hadassah Magazine, the publication where I worked at the time, wanted to give a budding journalist a big break.

It felt surreal to step out of the train station and say to the cab driver, The White House, please. Arriving after a sleepless night, I was shown to the Roosevelt Room. I had envisioned the event as Id seen press briefings on TV  sitting in the audience, facing the president at the lectern. Instead, we all sat around a table, and as luck would have it I ended up directly across from the 41st President  about as close as Id sit with family members at the dinner table.

I listened for about 45 minutes as senior journalists grilled the President about his policies on American spy Jonathan Pollard, the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, Soviet Jewish emigration and more. Toward the end I was able to get one question in, asking if hed changed his view on a major Israel policy issue. I got a one-word answer: No.

What I remember most about the meeting is how the President and his staff went out of their way to make everyone feel comfortable. He was in no rush and always polite to the questioners, even as they pressed him for answers. It was a far cry from the adversarial exchanges President Trump has with mainstream media. Yes, it was good politics, but I also got a strong sense that this was just the way George Herbert Walker Bush spoke to people. On his way out, he stopped to speak to each of us individually.

When it was my turn, I was at a loss to make small talk with the leader of the Free World. He asked where Im from, and I told him (Brooklyn, at the time.) That was about it. Later on, it occurred to me that I couldve told him how my mother suffered from Parkinsons disease, and suggested he reconsider his opposition to stem cell research that could help people like her. It was my one and only chance to lobby a President. But that would have crossed a line. I was there as a reporter.

In the course of the long journalism career that followed, I met many other political figures, but never another sitting U.S. President. In the 1992 campaign, Bush went in strong but quickly lost ground to the young, dynamic duo of Bill Clinton and Al Gore, whose expert political team managed to paint Bush as tired and out-of-touch, an image he bolstered with visuals such as looking at his watch during a debate and appearing stunned by a supermarket price scanner.

Perhaps its no coincidence that this took place at the dawn of the cable news age, when politicians were still grappling with how to burnish their image in a 24/7 news cycle.

When he talked about a kinder, gentler nation guided by "1,000 points of light," it wasnt hyperbole, but maybe George H.W. Bush just didnt have the fire in his belly to face the onset of the 21st century and the dawn of the technology age.

During the many testimonials in the week of mourning ahead, George H.W. Bush will be remembered as a World War II combat vet and former CIA director who helped usher in the defeat of the Soviet Union and took quick decisive action with his line in the sand against Saddam. But many who had the chance to meet him, even briefly, will likely just remember a gentleman who treated people with kindness and made them feel at home.

***

Adam Dickter is director at Dukas Linden Public Relations.

Craig Mullaney

Craig Mullaney, a member of Obama for Americas national security team who most recently headed strategic partnerships at Facebook, has joined Brunswick Group as a partner in DC.

At the social media giant, Mullaney was in charge of developing compelling content from the worlds of business, science and PA for Facebook, Instagram and emerging platforms. He also counseled Fortune 500 executives on ways to incorporate Facebook into their leadership and communications efforts.

Before joining Mark Zuckerbergs company, Mullaney was senior VP, content, operations and strategy for Ustream, the live video streaming platform that is now part of IBM.

Previously, Mullaney did a one-year stint at the State Dept. as special advisor for operations and strategy. He helped launch the Office of Innovation and Development Alliances at US Agency for International Development, which developed mobile payment and venture financing platforms to help to meet US global development objectives.

Mullaney, a West Point graduate and Army Ranger, served in Afghanistan for three years and was awarded a Bronze Star.

He went on to teach history at US Naval Academy and to the Defense Dept. where he was principal director for Afghanistan, Pakistan and Central Asia policy.An allocation of 458,240 has been secured under the Regional Enterprise Fund to develop Birr Technology Centre.

The funding will be allocated for a creative suite to be located at the Birr Technology Centre that will provide a central location where research and education meets business, leveraging I-LOFAR, the astrophysics observing facility at Birr Castle. The funding was sought from the Department of Business, Enterprise & Innovation by Local Enterprise Office Offaly.

In welcoming the allocation, Cllr John Clendennen commented, "The project provides a unique opportunity to access big data in real time and services will include hot desk facilities and office space, IT training facilities, industry focused events, and industry-led research projects - both undergraduate and post graduate."

Over the past number of years, Professor Peter Gallagher has brought innovation and investment to Offaly with the I-LOFAR project and has been recognised by Offaly County Council for his endeavours. Earlier this year, Professor Gallagher, Cllr. Clendennen and representatives from Local Enterprise Office Offaly & Offaly County Council travelled to Holland, to witness first hand what can be achieved through Radio Astronomy.

Cllr Clendennen added, "today's funding presents a unique opportunity for the town of Birr and the region to capitalise from what is a truly unique opportunity. Having travelled to Holland and met and engaged with the primary stakeholders, and seen what has been achieved through Radio Astronomy there, I am confident that todays funding allocation from the Government of Ireland is just another stepping stone to further opportunity and development in the area of astronomy, that will benefit Birr Town and the midlands region."Ballybryan National School in Rhode is celebrating this week as the judges of a leading national art competition have named the school as County Winner in the Senior category, placing them in the running for what has become a much sought-after national title.

The competition, which is entitled Someone Like Me, is supported by the National Disability Authority. It aims to promote disability awareness and nurture understanding amongst primary school students and to highlight the similarities that exist within people of all abilities.

The entry from Ballybryan National school named as Senior County Winner, was from Sheana Fallon, 5th class pupil whose drawing depicted a scene promoting inclusion and that everyone is equal. Teacher Brian Darby assisted in the school submission.

Now an annual initiative, Someone Like Me promotes inclusion and positive attitudes towards all persons, allowing children to learn about and discuss these topics and creatively express what they have learned through art and craft.

The judges, Caomhan Mac Con Iomaire, Mark Maguire and Ellen Keane, were greatly impressed with the artistic efforts of pupil Sheana Fallon and teachers at Ballybryan National school for their imaginative Someone Like Me submission which was selected for being exceptionally insightful and inspirational.

Congratulating the Offaly school on becoming county winners, Minister of State with special responsibility for Disabilities, Finian McGrath T.D. said that he was hugely encouraged by the number of competition entries. I am delighted to say that this year we received almost 2,400 entries for this wonderful competition, which highlights the passion and continued enthusiasm that teachers and pupils alike have toward this initiative, he said.

More than 600,000 people in Ireland have a disability, and children under 15 make up 53,000 of that figure. The National Disability Authority strive to promote inclusiveness in all of the work they carry out, and the fact that an entry was received from every county in Ireland highlights that by providing a creative outlet in which we can build understanding and awareness of our different abilities, we can truly discover the similarities that unite us all.

For the teachers and pupils who have all contributed to this competition, I would like to express our gratitude to you, and to point out that by taking the time to think and create an entry that your own knowledge and understanding of disability will have evolved. Education is integral to improving positive attitudes and inclusiveness for all members of society.

National Disability Authoritys Chairperson, Helen Guinan, said, The National Disability Authority (NDA) is very happy to be supporting Someone Like Me. The quality and breadth of the winning entries reflects the interest and creativity of the pupils involved. Creating positive attitudes at primary school level is very important. The NDA has commissioned four national surveys on public attitudes to disability, since 2001. The evidence from each survey suggests that the earlier that positive attitudes towards disability and mental health are introduced the greater the opportunities are to promote inclusive education and to improve outcomes for persons with disabilities as they grow older.

Ballybryan National School will now go on to compete with 45 other schools from around the country for the overall national Someone Like Me award which will be announced by the Minister for State with special responsibility for Disabilities, Finian McGrath T.D. at a ceremony at Dublin City Hall on Wednesday, December 5.

The competition, which offers a range of prizes up to the value of 750 was open to all primary school pupils from junior infants to sixth class and 2,400 entries were received from individual pupils, class groups and whole schools right across Ireland. Entries ranged from posters and collages to large sculptural installations and multi-media pieces.Photo: The Canadian Press A processing unit at Suncor Fort Hills facility in Fort McMurray, Alta., on September 10, 2018.

Suncor Energy Inc. says it's assessing the impact of the Alberta government's move to curtail oil production next year.

The company says the specific impact of the production cut will be provided when it issues its 2019 capital and production guidance.

The Alberta government announced a plan Sunday to impose across-the-board oil production cuts to reduce a glut of oil that has helped increase the discount the province's oil fetches compared with the North American benchmark. The anticipated regulations will require oil producers to reduce their production effective Jan. 1, 2019.

Cenovus Energy Inc. proposed the idea of a production cut last month, however several large players in the oilpatch have been opposed to involuntary cuts.

Suncor, Imperial Oil Ltd. and Husky Energy Inc. whose refining assets and firm pipeline contracts allow them to avoid most local price discounts have opposed the idea of mandatory production curtailments.

Suncor says it believes the market is the most effective means to balance supply and demand and normalize differentials.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 3)  Days after the President lambasted Church officials, the Vatican named the Philippines a "great Catholic nation."

In a letter of appointment to a Japanese cardinal, Pope Francis praised the Philippine Church for continuing its mission of developing the Catholic faith in the country.

"Indeed the noble Church in the Philippines now stands among the great Catholic nations in the entire world. Hence, no wonder, she continuously sends missionaries to other regions," his letter said.

The letter, posted on the Manila Cathedral Facebook page on Saturday, was addressed to the Archbishop of Osaka Thomas Manyo Cardinal Maeda, who Pope Francis assigned to attend the sixtieth anniversary of the reconstructed Cathedral Church of Manila, in his place.

The Cathedral Church of Manila or the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Concepcion of the Blessed Virgin Mary will celebrate its sixtieth year on December 8.

Pope Francis also said the progress of the Catholic faith in the Philippines was "prosperous" since the establishment of the Diocese of Manila 440 years ago.

"When our predecessor Gregory XIII established around 440 years ago the Diocese of Manila, comprising the entire archipelago, had he thought at that time of how prosperous the development of the Catholic faith there would be?" He said.

He also named the Cathedral Church of Manila as the "mother and head of churches" in the Philippines. This development comes days after President Rodrigo Duterte, a vocal critic of the Catholic Church, launched his recent tirade against bishops and other officials. Duterte attacked Church officials for their "archaic" teachings and encouraged Catholics to pray in their homes instead of attending mass.

"You build a chapel on your own house and pray there. You don't have to go to the church to pay for these idiots," the President said on November 26.

READ: Duterte to Catholics: You don't have to go to church to pay for 'idiots'

Earlier, the President vowed to stop his attacks against the Church and God after a meeting with the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President. A meeting between Malacanang and the CBCP is also in the works but a date has yet to be set.Photo: The Canadian Press 2018 Kennedy Center Honorees, front row form left, Wayne Shorter, Cher, Reba McEntire, Philip Glass, back row from left, the co-creators of "Hamilton," Thomas Kail, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Andy Blankenbuehler, Alex Lacamoire pose for the group photo at the State Department for the Kennedy Center Honors State Department Dinner on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018, in Washington.

Last year's Kennedy Center Honors ceremony was almost overshadowed by controversy surrounding the sitting president. This year's event took place in the shadow of the death of a former commander-in-chief.

Sunday night's ceremony honouring lifetime artistic achievement featured multiple tributes to former President George H.W. Bush, who died Friday night at age 94.

The night kicked off with an extended standing ovation in Bush's memory at the request of hostess Gloria Estefan.

"I think it's appropriate to recognize the passing of a wonderful man who dedicated his life to service and who graciously attended this event many times during his administration, laughing, applauding, singing along and even shedding a tear from right up there in the presidential box," said Estefan, who recalled being invited to the White House and how Bush "literally spent 45 minutes patiently talking to my eight-year-old son" about how the government worked.

Within days of that White House visit, Estefan's tour bus was in a serious accident that left her nearly paralyzed and President Bush called her in the hospital, she said.

For the second straight year, President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump declined an invitation to the awards. They returned to Washington before dawn Sunday from the Group of 20 summit in Argentina.

The Trumps skipped last year's ceremony after several of the honorees  most notably leftist television producer Norman Lear  threatened to boycott if he attended. This year, nobody issued that kind of overt threat, but the Trumps still announced three weeks ago that they wouldn't attend.

David Rubenstein, the chairman of the board for the Kennedy Center, said after intermission that he often thinks about the values Bush brought to public service.

"I never met a more decent man, a more philanthropic person, a more genuine person," Rubenstein said.

Bush attended the Kennedy Center Honors for most years during his presidency  and even afterward, during his son's presidency  but like other leaders, he was pulled away by major issues that demanded his time. Bush didn't attend in 1989 because he was at a summit in Malta. Jimmy Carter missed the 1979 awards because of the Iran hostage crisis. Bill Clinton was on his way to a conference during the 1994 Kennedy Center awards.

Trump, however, is the first president to miss them twice.

Had he gone to the Kennedy Center, he might have faced opposition from at least some of the honorees, including Cher and Lin-Manuel Miranda.Morrisville, N.Y.  University Police at SUNY Morrisville, along with the New York State Office of Fire Prevention & Control, are investigating an arson which occurred in a hallway outside of a first-floor room in West Hall on Saturday, Dec. 1, at 9:30 p.m.

The small fire, which was called in, was extinguished when University Police arrived.

The incident, which caused very minor damage to the floor, did not require evacuation of the building.

Members of the campus community are urged to be vigilant at all times and to report any unusual circumstance or suspicious persons/activities to University Police at 315-684-6410 or by using any on-campus blue light phone. Tips on any campus crime can be reported at 315-684-6410 or anonymously at www.morrisville.edu/silent-witness.Oneida, N.Y.  An Oneida City School student allegedly brought a spent bullet casing on a bus Monday morning.

According to a statement by Superintendent Mary-Margaret Zehr posted to the districts Facebook page, the casing was found while en route to Willard Prior Elementary School by a staff member. The administration was immediately notified and law enforcement was contacted.

An investigation by the Oneida City Police Department and the New York State Police found that a student had brought the casing on the bus, but the casing never entered the school. The bus was deemed clear and safe and police determined no prohibited items were brought into the school.

We would like to thank all agencies involved with their efforts during this situation, reads the statement. As always, safety is a top priority within all of our schools and buildings in the Oneida City School District.9 NDFB(S) cadres arrested in Arunachal Pradesh

India

oi-PTI

Itanagar, Dec 3: In a joint operation by the Army and police officers, nine cadres of outlawed NDFB(S), including a teenager, have been arrested from Jairampur in Arunachal Pradesh.

The rebels were infiltrating into India from their training camp in Myanmar when security forces apprehended them Sunday, Director General of Police SBK Singh said.

Assam Police's 'Bohemian Rhapsody' post to curtail fake news is winning the internet

A huge cache of arms and ammunition, including pistols and AK- 56 rifles, were recovered from their possession.

"Acting on a tip-off, a joint team of Red Horns Division of Assam Rifles and Jairampur Police ambushed the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (Songbijit) rebels on their infiltration route," Singh said, adding that the operation has dealt a "body blow" to the militant outfit.Photo: The Canadian Press Deitz Kracker, left, and Marg Frazier visit a statue of former President George H.W. Bush in downtown Houston, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018.

George H.W. Bush is set to embark on his final tour of Washington, the capital city that is remembering the 41st president's lifetime of public service that began in the Navy during World War II, ended with one term as president and was characterized throughout by what admirers say was his innate decency, generosity and kindness.

In Texas, students, staff and visitors have been flocking to Bush's presidential library on the campus of Texas A&M University, with thousands of mourners paying their respects at a weekend candlelight vigil at a nearby pond and others contributing to growing flower memorials at Bush statues at both the library and a park in downtown Houston.

"I think he was one of the kindest, most generous men," said Marge Frazier, who visited the downtown statue on Sunday while showing friends from California around.

A similar outpouring is anticipated in Washington this week during the state funeral for Bush, who died late Friday at his home in Houston. He was 94.

Bush, who was president from 1989 to 1993, will lie in state beneath the soaring U.S. Capitol rotunda for a ceremony and public visitation from Monday through Wednesday. An invitation-only funeral service is set for Wednesday at Washington National Cathedral. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump are scheduled to attend. Bush's family has not said who will speak at the service.

Afterward, Bush will be returned to Houston to lie in repose at St. Martin's Episcopal Church before burial Thursday at his family plot on the library grounds. His final resting place will be alongside Barbara Bush, his wife of 73 years who died in April, and Robin Bush, the daughter they lost to leukemia in 1953 at age 3.

Bush's casket is set to arrive in Washington on Monday afternoon aboard the U.S. military airplane that's more commonly recognized as Air Force One. The crew has been tasked by President Trump with carrying out "Special Air Mission 41." The number is a reference to Bush's place in the roster of America's presidents.

Former President George W. Bush, the eldest of the four Bush sons, and his wife, Laura, along with brother Neil Bush and his family, will accompany their father's body to Joint Base Andrews outside Washington, said family spokesman Jim McGrath. Other Bush family members are expected to be at the Maryland military base for the arrival.After selling 750 kg onions for Rs 1,064, farmer donates money in protest to PM relief fund

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Nashik, Dec 3: An onion-grower from Maharashtra who had to sell his produce for little over Rs 1 per kg has sent his earnings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to mark his protest.

Sanjay Sathe, resident of Niphad tehsil in Nashik district, was among the handful of progressive farmers' selected by the Union agriculture ministry for an interaction with then US president Barack Obama when he visited India in 2010.

Speaking to PTI on Sunday, Sathe said, "I produced 750 kg of onion in this season but was offered a rate of Rs 1 per kg at Niphad wholesale market last week.

Farmers' march highlights: Representatives of 21 political parties come together for farmers

"Finally I could negotiate a deal for Rs 1.40 per kg and received Rs 1,064 for 750 kg, he said.

"It was painful to see such paltry returns on four months of toil. Hence I have donated Rs 1,064 to Disaster Relief Fund of the PMO as a protest. I had to pay additional Rs 54 for sending it by money order," he said.

"I do not represent any political party. But I am angry because of the government's apathy towards our woes," he added.

The money order was sent on November 29 from the Niphad office of India Post. It was addressed to "Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India".

Nashik district in north Maharashtra accounts for 50 per cent of onion production in India.

Asked about his meeting with Obama eight years ago, he said, "I have been using a voice-based advisory service (run by a telecom operator) for farmers for a long time. I used to call them and get information about weather changes, and thus succeeded in increasing my production.

Two-day farmers' protest in Delhi; demand for better MSP, loan waivers

"I had also been invited to speak about my experiments in agriculture on local radio stations of AIR. So the agriculture ministry selected me to set up a stall at St Xavier's College in Mumbai when Obama visited it. I could speak to him for a couple of minutes through an interpreter."

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 16:18 [IST]After Telangana polls, TRS to set foot in AP

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Hyderabad, Dec 3: In the days to come, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), would test the waters in Andhra Pradesh. The party which is restricted to Telangana alone at the moment, would try its electoral luck in Andhra Pradesh soon.

During an informal chat with the media, K T Rama Rao said that in the coming days, he would visit Andhra Pradesh and involve himself in the politics there. The strategy would depend on how many seats the party would win in Telangana.

Was Charminar also built by Naidu? KCR accuses Andhra CM of distorting facts

Rao also revealed some of his predictions for the Telangana assembly elections. He said that his party, the TRS would win 17 seats in the Greater-Hyderabad Municipal Corporation limits. The BJP would be restricted to just two seats he said.

He also said that Revanth Reddy would lose the Kodangal seat. Rao said that it was the fear of losing that is prompting Reddy to try and postpone the elections. Similarly, K Janareddy and B Vikramarka would lose the Nagarjunsagar and Madhira seats respectively, KTR also predicted.

On Chandrababu Naidu, he said that there is no scope for him Telangana. The settlers are backing us to the hilt, he said, while adding that the TRS would win the Serillingampally, Kukatpally and Quthubullapur seats respectively.

Telangana polls: KCR's manifesto promises big sops for farmers, unemployment allowance

On his own seat at Sircilla, KTR said that he is confident of a big win. The margin would be above 50,000 votes this time too, he also said.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 9:19 [IST]Ahead of Dec 10 opposition meet, BSP keeps all guessing

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

New Delhi, Dec 3: In a bid to cut into the vote share of the BJP in Uttar Pradesh, the opposition is pinning its hopes on a BSP-SP-RLD tie up for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

In this context, the opposition has scheduled a crucial meeting on December 10, but the BSP has kept everyone guessing. The Samajwadi Party has however confirmed its presence for the meeting, but the BSP is yet to follow suit.

2019 Lok Sabha polls : AAP adopts constituency-wise strategy to take on BJP in Delhi

The Congress which would be leading this meeting is yet to get a confirmation from BSP supremo, Mayawati. The party is still not clear if the meeting would be attended by Mayawati herself or by her deputy Satish Chandra Misra.

The meeting is scheduled to be held on December 10 at 3.30 pm at Parliament House Annexe. The BSP is however expected to take its time in making a decision. It would not want to be part of any meeting until a seat sharing arrangement in UP is reached. The party which put up a dismal performance in both the assembly polls and the 2014 Lok Sabha elections wants a fair share of the seats, before it makes any commitment.

'I will not retire from politics,' says Sushma Swaraj

The meeting will be attended by Dravida Munnetra Kazagham's M K Stalin, Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee, Rashtriya Janata Dal's Tejashwi Yadav, Telugu Desam Party's Chandrababu Naidu, NCP's Sharad Pawar, JD (S) leader and Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, National Conference chairman Farooq Abdullah CPI (M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury and Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The chairperson of the UPA, Sonia Gandhi too would attend the meeting.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 6:39 [IST]Amidst the politics, ISI launches Operation Express to carve out separate Punjab nation

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Amritsar, Dec 3: Over the past couple of days, one has got to witness plenty of politics that has played out over the Kartarpur Corridor. Navjot Singh Sidhu, in particular found himself in the midst of several controversies.

While the politics continues to play out, the fact is that the situation in Punjab is looking grim and it is time to fight a common enemy. There have been a series of events that have taken place over the past year, which suggests that the ISI is gradually succeeding in its evil design to rake up the Khalistan issue once again.

There have been calls for Referendum 2020. It started out in Punjab, following which there was a declaration in London. The next event is planned in Pakistan and the Sikhs for Justice have issued an official note to this effect.

Situation grim:

There are some statistics available that would worry anyone. The Punjab Police has been kept busy over the past year and a half thanks to pro-Khalistan groups. The Punjab Police have busted 17 terror modules and arrested 97 operatives. Further 77 different types of weapons that include automatic weapons, RDX and hand grenades have been seized.

Further the National Investigation Agency has busted a major plot, where in ISI backed groups carried out targeted killings of religious activists, in a bid to spread communal hatred in the state.

Kartarpur: Euphoria alright, but Pak has given space to Referendum 2020 campaigners

The ISI roped in Sikhs for Justice to spearhead the movement, by calling for a Referendum 2020. The SJF is a pro-Khalistan group, which has offices in the US, UK and Canada. Intelligence Bureau officials say that although this group calls itself a human rights advocacy group, it has been acting as the main agent to rake up the Khalistan movement in Punjab.

Operation Express:

While Referendum 2020 is one part of the problem, the entire exercise that is being stage managed by the ISI is known as Operation Express. The ISI has tasked some of the top officials in Pakistan to oversee this operation. During the course of the investigations conducted, a name called Choudhary Saab had cropped up and it is believed that he is in charge of Operation Express.

The police say that the man in question is Lt Colonel Shahid Mehmood from the 25th Battalion of Baloch Regiment. He is the overall in charge of ensuring the success of the operation. He coordinates with the SJF and has been tasked with the big Referendum 2020 global event slated for June 6 2020.

Operation Express would also involve fanning of anti-India sentiments. The ISI along with the SJF have planned a major operation for next year, when lakhs of pilgrims will visit Pakistan for the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak.

OneIndia had reported on November 17 that an SJF sponsored pilgrimage to Pakistan will be used by the ISI to churn out Khalistan sentiments.

An SJF sponsored pilgrimage to Pakistan that ISI will use to churn pro Khalistan sentiments

Reports state that the SJF is planning to fund the visit of nearly a lakh Sikh pilgrims to Pakistan to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, which falls next year. The worry for the agencies is that the ISI would try and propagate among the pilgrims the need for a pro Khalistan movement.

The ISI would also look to evoke sentiments, the agencies believe. The agencies also feel that the ISI and its agents would go all out to whip up passions.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 14:26 [IST]Patidar leader Hardik Patel

During his recent visit to Udaipur, the leader from Gujarat also accused the BJP of "betraying" people, especially youths in the name of job creation.

"I am holding meetings in villages of Rajasthan and the feedback from public is that they want change now. The BJP betrayed people, especially youths in the name of jobs. There is no job creation and posts in large numbers are lying vacant in the state," Patel said.

Jat and Rajput communities to hold the sway in Rajasthan Assembly elections

"The best place for the BJP is in opposition. It is a strong party to be in opposition and people are willing to do that in elections," he said.

Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje

Vasundhara Raje has been the chief minister of the state for the full term of 5 years. She was also the chief minister from 2003 to 2008. In 2008, the BJP lost the elections and Congress party made its veteran leader Ashok Gehlot the chief minister of Rajasthan. In 2013, the BJP returned with a massive mandate and Vasundhara Raje again took the leadership of the state.

BJP releaseing manifesto for Rajasthan polls

Patel said the BJP governments at the centre and in Rajasthan "betrayed people on every front" and did "just vote-bank politics".

"I have held meetings in Bhilwara and Udaipur and will cover Kota and Jhalawar districts before the campaigning gets over. I am trying to understand issues here so that I can take up them more prominently," said Patel, who has been on frequent visits to the state.

Rajasthan assembly elections 2018: BJP releases poll manifesto

He said he was not campaigning in support of Congress candidates but meeting people on behalf of his Kisan Kranti Sena to raise the issues of farmers, tribal and youths. Polling in Rajasthan will take place on December 7. (Image credit - ANI/Twitter)

Who will win Rajasthan this time  Congress or BJP?

In 2013, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had won 163 seats and the Congress 23 seats in the 14th assembly election. Elections in Rajasthan have been a two-party affair. Simmering farm discontent in rural Rajasthan is emerging as the biggest challenge for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in its attempt to retain power in the desert state. Only a quarter of Rajasthan's households live in urban areas and farmers constitute a strong and influential block of voters in the state. The general consensus seems to be that the BJP may retain the urban vote, while the Congress will take the rural.

OneIndia News with PTI inputsCongress prepares to save its MLAs from poaching in Chhattisgarh elections

India

oi-Vinod Kumar Shukla

New Delhi, Dec 3: Though the result of Chhattisgarh Assembly elections will be declared on December 11, 2018 but the Congress seems to be confident of winning in the state but appears more worried about poaching of their MLAs. So the party is working on the strategy that winning candidates of the Congress must not be left alone and a team of the party will be immediately attached with the winning MLAs. The state Congress and the high command would transport them to the safe places so they can't be poached.

Sources said that strategy to this effect has been made in the presence of Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Delhi. The work in this regard has started at the district level. At the state Congress office Rajiv Bhawan, state in-charge of the party P L Punia, PCC chief Bhupesh Baghel, leader of opposition T S Singh Dev, senior leaders of the party and all 90 candidates had a meeting on November 28 in which all the candidates were asked to reach Raipur immediately after the announcement of results for the elections.

Congress delegation meets EC over unauthorised entry into EVM strongroom in Chhattisgarh

The Congress leadership is worried that poaching attempts could be made if victorious candidates stayed back in their constituencies. It has been decided at the moment that victorious candidates will have to reach Raipur but this could be changed at the last moment. Some secret destination will be told to them to reach there directly.

In the year 2014, there was a by-election on Antapur Assembly constituency but at the last moment Congress candidate Manturam Pawar withdrew his name and Congress had to support an independent candidate who had lost the election. An audio CD surfaced in which purchase of the Congress candidate came forth and the Congress demanded investigation of the matter.

In a previous attempt in 2003, the then chief minister Ajit Jogi had lost Assembly elections in the state. The BJP was preparing to form the government in the state but attempts were made to poach the BJP MLAs from the party in which the name of Ajit Jogi figured but the BJP exposed it at the last moment. The matter was investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 11:37 [IST]Delhi drama: Caught driving drunk, man drives away with polices alcometer!

India

oi-Shubham Ghosh

New Delhi, Dec 3: If one is drunk and the top of it, a thief, then what law is applicable for him/her? Police personnel doing their duty at New Delhi's Connaught Place area last Friday night had a bizarre experience when a man, allegedly found drunk while driving, snatched the detecting device (alcometer) and sped away.

According to a report in Hindustan Times, the man, identified as Rishi Dhingra, who works for a private firm, was driving a black Maruti Swift car, was stopped by the police to check whether he was drunk while driving. When the test on the alcometer was found to be positive, the head constable who was doing the duty asked the driver to park on the side of the road. The man pretended that he was parking but suddenly reached for the device and sped away.

China: Man goes for a walk on high-voltage wires after heavy booze

"The traffic police had noted the last four digits of the Maruti Swift car's registration number. That helped us reach the suspect's Noida residence. But he had already left for London on a professional tour," the police were quoted as saying in the report.

"The suspect has been identified as Rishi Dhingra, an employee of a private firm. We have seized the black Maruti Swift he drove at the time of the crime. But he told us that he had thrown away the alcometer soon after fleeing from the police check post," Madhur Verma, deputy commissioner of police (New Delhi), was quoted as saying by HT.

The local police were alerted following the incident and also a case of theft was filed on charges of disrupting a public servant's duty.

Alcohol responsible for one in 20 deaths worldwide: WHO

A person found driving in inebriated state can be jailed for up to six months, fined Rs 2,000 or both. Repeat offenders can be jailed for up to two years and slapped a fine of Rs 3,000 or both. Of late, the police are also seizing driving licences for offenders for a period of three months.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 9:46 [IST]Dikats from across the border: How women are laying honey traps on officials

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Srinagar, Dec 3: An intelligence based operation had recently led to the arrest of Shazia Syed, a woman in her early 30s from Bandipora in Jammu and Kashmir. Further investigation revealed that she was leading an army of women in laying honey traps.

'Honey trapping' is one of the new methods used by Pakistan-based terror groups to woo youths towards militancy and use them as human carriers for delivering arms from one place to another or acting as guides to infiltrating terrorists, officials said.

How Pakistan uses Chinese women to set honey-traps in India

Officials from the central security agencies had been keeping a watch on the Internet Protocol (IP) address used by Shazia for several months. She used to talk to youths and would promise to meet them only if a certain "consignment" was delivered from one place to another, the officials said.

Shazia had been in touch with some officials in the police department as well, but the officials termed it a usual tactic of "double-cross" as she used to report the movement of troops and "not so sensitive" information to her handlers across the border.

During interrogation, she told the investigators about the presence of some more women in militant ranks who had been tasked with luring youths into militancy, they said.

A week before her arrest on November 17, the Jammu and Kashmir Police had arrested Aysia Jan (28) for carrying 20 grenades in Lawaypora on the city outskirts, after receiving inputs about terrorists trying to smuggle arms and ammunition into the city.

Besides grenades, the police had also seized ammunition from her possession, they said.

Her monitoring had started during the probe of a case from September last year when the police killed Abu Ismail, the Lashkar-e-Tayiba terror chief in the Valley, and Chotta Qassim. Both were involved in last year's attack on Amarnath pilgrims, which left eight people dead.

Some documents and materials were seized from the encounter site in the outskirts of Srinagar city which indicated that an unidentified woman hailing from North Kashmir helped supply arms and ammunition to the two terrorists.

"The woman was identified as Syed Shazia. Continuous monitoring of her social media presence showed that she was getting diktats from across the border for honey trapping and luring youths into militancy from across the border," they said.

Big honey-trap racket busted

She was in constant touch with Sherwan alias Ali of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror outfit who introduced her to Pakistan-based terrorists Sufiyan and Qasim Khan Gauri.

Later, she started working as an overground worker of Jaish terror group and was acting as the main conduit for ensuring delivery of weapons to other parts of the Valley.

Before her arrest, a special police officer hailing from Handwara was picked up by police for informing Shazia that her phone had been kept on monitoring.

It was found that the special police officer identified as Irfan had been passing information to Shaiza, they said.

She was arrested under various sections of Ranbir Penal Code (equivalent of IPC) and Arms Act.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 6:09 [IST]Farmers crisis: Our parliament has time for GST but not for peasants, says P Sainath

India

oi-Shubham Ghosh

New Delhi, Dec 3: Amid the ongoing farmers' crisis, award-winning journalist P Sainath lashed out at the political players saying they did not have time to call a special session of the parliament to focus on the difficulties the countries' farmers are facing at the moment.

Speaking to The Quint, the veteran journalist, founder of PARI Network, said: "People expect the parliament to work for the people, not just for the corporate world." He said on matters like GST, a joint session can be called virtually on no notice and at midnight but nothing of that sort happens for the farmers' crisis.

Farmers' march highlights: Representatives of 21 political parties come together for farmers

"The first National Commission for Farmers' report, also known as the Swaminathan Commission... the first of those reports were submitted in December 2004, the last of those reports in October 2006. In 14 years, the Indian Parliament has not found time to discuss that report for one hour," Sainath said, adding that a special session of the parliament to discuss the agrarian crisis and related issues is what needed.

He said some three weeks will be required for discussing the farmers' issues. Sainath said there are bills stressing on freedom from indebtedness and MSP and remunerative prices that can be passed in a very short time since 21 political parties have already extended support for them but there are a whole lot of issues that need to be discussed, including the Swaminathan Commission.

Apartments have swimming pools on each floor but agriculture has no water

On water crisis, Sainath was ruthless in his take. He said it is not about drought but "giant water transfers of water" and "senseless utilisation of resources" that need to be tackled. Sainath said big apartments are coming up in Mumbai with plans of setting up a swimming pool on each floor when the agrarian sector is facing serious water crisis. "Where's the justice in this?" Sainath asked in his talk with The Quint. "The construction workers of those swimming pools are dispossessed farmers of their villages who don't have water," Sainath said.

Why a farm loan waiver and not a temple at Ayodhya matters to farmers

He also said the crisis has very chance of getting resolved if the rights and welfare of women farmers are not addressed.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 16:36 [IST]Incessant rains leave 42 more dead in Uttarakhand, Nainital cut off from rest of state

Amit Shah kicks off poll campaign in Uttarakhand, accuses Congress of doing appeasement politics

Uttarakhand opinion poll 2022: Who will form next government? Here's what ABP-Cvoter survey shows

Former Uttarakhand Ayurved University Registrar arrested for corruption

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Dehradun, Dec 3: Former Uttarakhand Ayurved University Registrar Mrityunjay Mishra was arrested on charges of corruption in Dehradun on Monday, 3 December.

Mishra was facing charges of misappropriation of funds and alleged financial irregularities during his tenure as Registrar.

However, an inquiry which was constituted in 2016 to look into the allegation of misappropriation of funds while Mishra was serving as Registrar of the Uttarakhand Technical University (UTU) had absolved him of all charges.

The inquiry found that a complete record of all the expenditure was made by Mishra and the remaining amount was duly transferred to the secret account of the university.

In an order dated December 21, 2012, the state government had appointed Dr MC Joshi as inquiry officer to look into the charges of misappropriation of funds and alleged financial irregularities by Mishra.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 18:57 [IST]Photo: The Canadian Press In this May 5, 2018, file photo, a taxi passes by a building with an image of emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha, Qatar.

The tiny, energy-rich Arab nation of Qatar announced on Monday it will withdraw from OPEC in January, mixing its aspirations to increase production outside of the cartel's constraints with the politics of slighting the Saudi-dominated group amid the kingdom's boycott of Doha.

The surprise announcement from Qatar's minister of state for energy affairs, Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, again throws into question the role of the cartel after needing non-members to push through a production cut in 2016 after prices crashed below $30 a barrel.

It also marks the first time a Mideast nation has left the cartel since its founding in 1960.

In a statement, al-Kaabi said Qatar, the world's largest exporter of liquified natural gas, planned to increase its exports from 77 million tons of gas per year to 110 million tons. He also said Qatar wants to raise its oil production.

"In light of such efforts and plans, and in our pursuit to strengthen Qatar's position as a reliable and trustworthy energy supplier across the globe, we had to take steps to review Qatar's role and contributions on the international energy scene," al-Kaabi said.

There was no immediate comment from Vienna-based OPEC, which is to meet this month and discuss possible production cuts. In November, Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said OPEC and allied oil-producing countries will likely need to cut crude supplies, perhaps by as much as 1 million barrels of oil a day, to rebalance the market.

Qatar produces only some 600,000 barrels of crude oil a day, making it OPEC's 11th biggest producer. The loss of production, under 2 per cent of overall OPEC supply a day, won't greatly affect the cartel's position in the market.HC Gupta's conviction in coal scam: Court to pronounce quantum of sentence on Dec 5

India

oi-Vikas SV

New Delhi, Dec 3: The arguments on the quantum of sentence for former union coal secretary HC Gupta and four others, who were convicted in the coal block allocation case, concluded on Monday and Delhi's Patiala House Court has reserved order. The quantum of sentence would be pronounced on December 5 (Wednesday).

Gupta and others were convicted on Friday (November 30) in connection with the allocation of Moira and Madhujore (North and South) coal blocks in West Bengal to Vikas Metal Power Ltd. Five others, including one retired and another serving public servant - KS Kropha and KC Samria - were held guilty for various offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act and Indian Penal Code.

VMPL MD Vikash Patni and authorised signatory Anand Mallick have also been convicted. All the convicted persons on Friday were taken into the custody on the order of the court and were sent to judicial custody till December 3 (Today).

Coalgate: What is the scam all about

The CBI had registered an FIR in the case in September 2012. The Special court in Delhi held all of them guilty of criminal conspiracy and under other sections of Prevention of Corruption Act.

Gupta, was Coal Secretary for two years during the Congress-led United progressive Alliance (UPA) regime before he retired in 2008. He is facing trial in seven other cases of the coal scam. In June 2017, Gupta was awarded jail term for irregularities in the allocation of Madhya Pradesh based Thesgora-B/Rudrapuri coal block to KSSPL.

Then in December 2017, a special CBI court held the former coal secretary guilty in a coal allocation and mining scam from Jharkhand. Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Madhu Koda was also convicted in the case.

The IAS officers' association in 2016 came in support of Gupta after he broke down in the Court saying he did not have capacity to hire a lawyer to contest his case. The association then offered to pay his lawyers' fees, said reports.

What is Coal allocation scam?

The case is popularly known as Coalgate. There was a huge political row over this case with several bureaucrats and leaders under the UPA regime coming under the scanner. A report by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India showed inefficient and possibly illegal allocation of coal blocks between 2004 and 2009. It estimated loss to the exchequer to the tune of Rs 10.7 lakh crore. The amount was however toned down to Rs 1.86 lakh crore in the final report.

The point made in the CAG report was that there was improper allocation. It was said that this was to be done through competitive bidding. The government however avoided the competitive bidding, the CAG report said. The revenue secured from the allottees for the allocation was lesser than what could have been if there was competitive bidding, the report further stated.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 13:40 [IST]Navy Day in India

Navy Day in India is celebrated to commemorate the courageous attack on the Karachi harbor during the Indo-Pakistan war (on 4 December 1971) by the Indian Naval Missile boats as well as to reverence all the martyrs of that war. It is celebrated using a particular theme (like "Safe Seas and Secure Coasts for a strong Nation") of the year for making it more powerful and potent.

Navy personnel rehearse for the Beating Retreat and Tattoo Ceremony for the Navy Day celebration at the historical Gateway of India in Mumbai on Sunday, December 02, 2018 (PTI Photo)

Beating Retreat

Navy personnel rehearse for the Beating Retreat and Tattoo Ceremony for the Navy Day celebration at the historical Gateway of India in Mumbai on Sunday, December 02, 2018

Gateway of India

Gateway of India in Mumbai, ahead of the Navy Day celebrations that falls on Tuesday. A Navy helicopter hovered slowly over the monument, lit in the colours of the national flag, while soldiers in white uniform marched below in a rehearsal of the Beating of the Retreat ceremony. Navy personnel rehearse for the upcoming Navy Day Celebration, at Gateway of India, in Mumbai, Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018.

Tattoo Ceremony

Navy personnel display their skills while rehearsing for the Beating Retreat and Tattoo Ceremony for the Navy Day celebration at the historic Gateway of India in Mumbai on Sunday, December 02, 2018. PTI PhotosInstead of passive protest, BJP workers actively helped the Congress to defeat their party in MP

India

oi-Vinod Kumar Shukla

New Delhi, Dec 3: The Congress in Madhya Pradesh is hopeful more on the fact that party has a fair chance of winning election as angry Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers unlike on earlier instances this time round worked for the Congress. This has a bigger implication and if this continues till the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP might receive a severe jolt in several states.

Sources said that not only the BJP leaders but workers of the party also had helped the Congress. They were so angry that they did not spare even ministers in the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government but also the influential leaders of the party. They have also not let the Congress face the resource crunch in the elections. However, this is not the same case in Rajasthan elections where the Congress seems to be more in trouble at least for now.

Dilli Gupshup: Even the BJP leader feels Congress winning in Madhya Pradesh

Political analysts say that generally the angry BJP workers sit at home and this had happened quite often but this had never happened in past 25 years that BJP workers helping the Congress. They are very hurt and want their own party to be defeated this time round to teach it a lesson of the lifetime. The Madhya Pradesh is important because the Congress got just two seats in the state in 2014 Lok Sabha elections and has been out of power from the past 15 years. Even the Congress knows it very well that the BJP's workers have not come to the Congress permanently. These workers still believe that the BJP will do the course correction if it is taught a lesson by defeat in Madhya Pradesh and will stop avoiding the party workers.

The Congress has utilised the anger of the BJP workers for its benefits maximum. The most important aspect of the BJP's election management is its booth arrangement that had faltered. Leaders like Shivraj Singh Chouhan who appeared to be very heavy before the beginning of elections shattered before the party workers due to local reasons helping the Congress decisively.

Congress accusing the government of tampering with EVMs in Madhya Pradesh

After taking the benefit of the indifferent attitude of the BJP workers in Madhya Pradesh, the Congress is trying to do the same in Rajasthan but the situation is little different in Rajasthan. The Congress has been week in resources and canvasing but it utilized the infighting of the BJP in Madhya Pradesh.ISI clubs Punjab and Kashmir, supplies HG84s to terrorists of both states

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Amritsar, Dec 3: The Punjab Police had recently arrested several students from Kashmir in connection with a terror probe.

Two weeks back, there was an input from the Intelligence Bureau that spoke about terrorists of the Jaish-e-Mohammad infiltrating into Punjab to carry out a terror strike. The Jaish it may be recalled had carried out the big attack on the Pathankot air base.

The role that the ISI is making terrorists from Kashmir play in Punjab cropped up during the investigations into the Maqsudan police station blast at Jalandhar. The police arrested seven students from Kashmir and learnt that they were working for an outfit called the Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind.

Amidst the politics, ISI launches Operation Express to carve out separate Punjab nation

This group is based out of Kashmir and is closely linked to the Jaish. An Intelligence Bureau official tells OneIndia that this is a well thought out strategy by the ISI. They want to merge the terrorists of both Kashmir and Punjab and make them fight as one entity. The aim is to make both the states troubled and boost terrorism, the officer explains.

The attack at Maqsudan was one step in that direction, the officer explains. The ISI has for long backed the Khalistan terrorists. Following the crackdown nearly 2 decades back, all the top Khalistan terrorists were given shelter in Pakistan. Over the years, they were nurtured and trained with an intention of launching them into Punjab and reviving militancy once again.

During the probe into the Maqsudan blast, it was also revealed that the grenade that was used was provided by Pakistan. Now it has been further revealed that the recent attack at the Nirankari congregation was linked to the Maqsudan attack.

The police had recovered a grenade from one of the accused Shabhnamdeep Singh, a member of the Khalistan Gaddar Force. The grenade recovered belonged to the HG84 category or the Hand Grenade Arges 84 and these are manufactured at the Pakistan Ordnance Factories. These grenades are commonly used by the Pakistan and Afghanistan armies.

Not just Pakistan, even Malaysia, Italy have contributed to revival of terror in Punjab

The Pakistan Ordnance Factories is a major firearms, defence contractor, and military corporation headquartered in Wah Cantt, Punjab, Pakistan. It is "the largest defence industrial complex under the Ministry of Defence Production, producing conventional arms & ammo to international standards, the official website states.

The grenades that were used both on the congregation and the police station were HG84s and the source of the procurement was also the same, investigations further revealed. The grenade weighs 480 grams and its effective range is around 20 metres radius.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 17:21 [IST]Jat and Rajput communities to hold the sway in Rajasthan Assembly elections

India

oi-Vinod Kumar Shukla

New Delhi, Dec 3: Just four days are remaining for the voting of Assembly elections in Rajasthan, but the focus of every political party in the state is on Rajput and Jat communities' vote banks. Collectively they have influence over 120 Assembly seats out of total 200 seats in the state.

The biggest Rajput organisation in the state Shri Rajput Sabha is clearly talking about opposing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. The other Rajput organisation Karni Sena once again gave a call 'Kamal Ka Fool, Hamari Bhool' (Supporting Lotus [BJP], A mistake). Both these prganisations are sending their representatives to the Rajpute dominated areas to ask people of the community to vote against the BJP.

Religion personal matter, not inheritance of political party: Jyotiraditya Scindia

On the other hand president of Jat Mahasabha Rajaram Meel said that the big chunk of the Jat community will vote for the Congress but Jat vote bank appears to be divided in the state. The younger generation of the Jat community is rallying behind Rashtriya Loktantrik Party led by Hanuman Beniwal while the older generation is divided between the BJP and the Congress.But the BJP leadership is claiming that Jat community is fully behind them.

President of Shri Rajput Sabha Giriraj Singh Lotwara said that there was no question of the community supporting the BJP. He said that the BJP denied ticket to senior leader from the community Jashwant Singh in the Lok Sabha elections. The party neglected not only former vice president Bhairo Singh Shekhawat but also his family. This has hurt the Rajput community. Jaswant Sing's entire family has joined and his son Manvendra Singh is contesting Assembly election against Vasundhara Raje from Jhalanapatan.

Will the jinx of Speaker not reaching next Assembly continue or get over in Rajasthan?

Chief minister Vasundhara Raje is married in the Jat Royalty Dholpur but she is not considered by the Jat community as their leader. The BJP has appointed Union agriculture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat as chief of election management committee but he seems to have failed much impact. Moreover, with the Meena community joining hands with the BJP, Jats were likely to be drifted away still the BJP seems to be recovering for some inner contradictions of the Congress. Some more Rajput leaders are also in the play for the BJP.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 10:23 [IST]Kochiites treated to fabulous display of naval ops

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Kochi, Dec 3: Residents of Kochi were treated to a dazzling display of the naval operations Sunday during an event that showcased the operational capabilities of the Navy.

Eight ships, nine helicopters and three Dornier aircraft along with Marine Commandos participated in the Naval Operations Demonstrations 2018, which took place after a gap of two years.

Navy chief Sunil Lanba to begin 4-day Russia visit on Monday

The event was cancelled last year, due to the involvement of Navy in Search and Rescue and Disaster Relief efforts in the aftermath of Cyclone Ockhi.

This year too, the Navy had been at the forefront of relief efforts during the recent Kerala floods.

Consequently, the demonstration of its rescue and lift capabilities in particular touched a chord with the spectators.

The display, which lasted for more than an hour included demonstration of landing of a Seaking helicopter on a moving warship, firing of weapons, special operations by the marine commandos from air and water, and Helobatics by the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH).

INS Ranvijay, one of the older Destroyers of the Indian Navy with its sleek silhouette provided the perfect backdrop to the entire event.

A continuity drill performed by two contingents from INS Dronachrya stood out for its stunning and precise discipline and skills in weapon handling as also the traditional hornpipe dance by the girl cadets of the sea cadet corps which was an epitome of grace and elegance.

The demonstration concluded with a 'Beating Retreat,' comprising inspiring martial music played by the Naval Band followed by a ceremonial sunset ceremony, along with synchronised illumination by naval ships in the Kochi channel.

India, Russia sign 0 million navy deal for 2 stealth frigates

The event, held in front of Rajendra maidan and Subhash park was hosted by Vice Admiral Anil Kumar Chawla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Southern Naval Command.

Kerala Governor Justice P Sathasivam and various dignitaries including the Mayor of Kochi Soumini Jain, the District Collector of Ernakulam, K Mohammed Y Safirulla attended the event.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 6:52 [IST]PM Modi addressing rally in Jodhpur

Modi today said that even the ancient sages never claimed that they understood Hinduism fully. Hindusism is so vast theat no sigle person can understand it completely, Modi said.

"Iss gyaan ka bhandaar mere paas hai main aisa daawa kabhi nahi kar sakta,naamdar kar sakte hain (I can never claim that that i have vast knowlege of this (Hindusism), but namdaar can)," he quipped. (Image credit - ANI/Twitter)

Crowd at PM Modi's rally in Jodhpur

He asked if people of Rajasthan would cast their votes on the the issue of Modi's knowledge of Hinduism or the real issues concerning them?

Religion personal matter, not inheritance of political party: Jyotiraditya Scindia

"Rajasthan mein iske mudde pe vote daalna hai kya? Rajasthan ko bijli, paani, sadak ke liye vote chahiye ki Modi ko Hindu ka gyaan hai ya nahi uspe vote chahiye? (Will Rajasthan vote on this issue or on the issue of electricities roads etc?)," Modi said in Jaipur. (Image credit - ANI/Twitter)

Congress president Rahul Gandhi

Congress president Rahul Gandhi said on Saturday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not understand the foundation of Hinduism.

"What is the essence of Hinduism? What does the Gita say? That knowledge is with everybody... Knowledge is all around you. Every living being has knowledge," Gandhi said at an interactive session in Udaipur, Rajasthan.

Congress which questioned existence of Lord Ram now talking about Hinduism: Smriti Irani

Targeting Modi on demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax (GST), Gandhi said the prime minister had a confusion that people in the world do not know anything and he had a sense that all knowledge came from his mind.

BJP president Amit Shah

Soon after his comments, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah gave a sharp reaction while addressing an election rally in Balotara town of Barmer district.

"The Congress is now preaching us about Hinduism... They are giving us lessons of Gita," Shah said.Police arrest ISJK recruit in Srinagar

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Srinagar, Dec 3: A student from Jammu and Kashmir who had joined the terror outfit, Islamic State Jammu and Kashmir has been arrested by the police.

Ehtisham Bilal, who had joined the ISJK in October returned home after being coaxed by his family. He was arrested upon his return. Ehtisham was missing since October 28 and following his joining the terror group, a video as circulated, showing his posing with an ISIS flag. In the video he can also be heard speaking about how he was beaten up in Delhi.

Bone chilling killings: Why is Hizbul aping the ISIS

He further said in the video, " This is a message to all who consider Jihad is a way of fighting. Our blood is not white, we will give you tears of blood. I was looking into the eyes of those non-Muslims, when they attacked me in groups like dogs. I felt I had delayed being part of Jihad for long. But not anymore."

Ehtisham was a first year student of bachelors in Medical Imaging Technology at the Sharda University.

ISIS co-conspirator from Tamil Nadu arrested

He is alleged to have been beaten up during a clash between two groups of students, following which he had gone missing.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 8:34 [IST]Policy paralysis in CBI: No move to appoint OSD of DG rank says govt

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

New Delhi, Dec 3: The government has denied reports that it was planning on appointing an Officer on Special Duty of a Director General rank officer to overcome the current policy paralysis situation in the Central Bureau of Investigation.

The government of India strongly refutes these imputations. It is clarified that the government has taken the step of divesting the present director and special director of the CBI of their powers under Section 4(2) of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act as an interim measure.

Govt grants sanction to prosecute Delhi minister Satyendra Jain in disproportionate assets case

Further the government also clarified that the matter is sub-juice before the Supreme Court and any action that is to be taken will be strictly in accordance with the decision of the Supreme Court of India in the pending proceedings and not before the court decides the matter. What is stated in the reports are absolutely false, the government also said.

Reports stated that the Centre was looking at a situation where the court may decide for a further probe against CBI director Alok Verma in view of the CVC proceedings against him and hence a decision had to be taken to break the policy paralysis in the CBI.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 16:06 [IST]Rajasthan cabinet reshuffle: BJP hits out at Congress over absence of women in new team

Rajasthan: This woman BJP candidate demolished PM Modis Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao in her campaign

India

oi-Shubham Ghosh

Jaipur, Dec 3: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the top-most leader of the ruling BJP, has stressed time and again on protecting India's daughters. The 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' (save the girl, educate the girl) scheme, launched in 2015, has been a flagship one for his government.

However, it did not take long for a candidate from Modi's party in poll-bound Rajasthan to shatter the noble initiative his government at the Centre has taken.

Shobha Chouhan, the BJP candidate from Sojat Assembly constituency in the state's Pali district for the December 7 election, recently remarked that she would ensure that no action is taken against child marriages if she wins the polls. She made the controversial remark at a public rally at Sneh Sammelan in Peepaliya Kalan region.

Religion personal matter, not inheritance of political party: Jyotiraditya Scindia

"We have 'satta' [power] and 'sangathan' [state government] at our disposal. We won't let the police intervene in child marriages," Shobha Chouhan was heard saying in a video, reported India Today.

Shobha made the remark in response to the local Dewasi people's concern over facing police action for child marriage. The constituency's returning officer reportedly issued a notice to her for violating the election code of conduct.

The saffron party candidate faced a backlash from not only the Opposition parties but also from the common people who called it "sick", "criminal" and "regressing". Shobha is the wife of an IAS officer, said one Twitter user.

Why wasn't it made public: Rajnath questions Rahul Gandhi's surgical strikes claim

Here are some of the reactions to the incident:

Rajasthan #BJP candidate, Shobha Chauhan's promise of 'no hindrance' to child marriage if elected shows abject oversight by party & mockery of its campaign #betibachao, but the applause to Chauhan's words is a sad sign of our collective national failure. https://t.co/8jVhmjX70t  Tanvi Kulkarni (@kulkarnitanvi) December 2, 2018

Shobha Chauhan, BJP candidate from Rajasthan, promises that BJP will allow child marriages if elected.



Chauhan is the wife of IAS officer Rajesh Chauhan.



From 'vikas' in 2014 to 'Bal Vivah' in 2018, how far the BJP has fallen!#RajasthanElections2018



https://t.co/nZxYgKtGYv  Shama Mohamed (@drshamamohd) December 2, 2018

@ArvindKejriwal is a family https://t.co/WCc83i5LkI ideal husband,son,father & brother.That's why everyone from family are supportive of him.  Real Patriot (@AamIndian_1) December 2, 2018

Child marriage is punishable in India under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006. A male adult marrying a child can be jailed up to years or slapped with a fine which may extend to Rs 1 lakh or may face both.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 9:54 [IST]Photo: The Canadian Press This Dec. 7, 2016, file photo provided by Amazon shows an Amazon Prime Air drone in Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom.

Jeff Bezos boldly predicted five years ago that drones would be carrying Amazon packages to people's doorsteps by now.

Amazon customers are still waiting. And it's unclear when, if ever, this particular order by the company's founder and CEO will arrive.

Bezos made billions of dollars by transforming the retail sector. But overcoming the regulatory hurdles and safety issues posed by drones appears to be a challenge even for the world's wealthiest man. The result is a blown deadline on his claim to CBS' "60 Minutes" in December 2013 that drones would be making deliveries within five years.

The day may not be far off when drones will carry medicine to people in rural or remote areas, but the marketing hype around instant delivery of consumer goods looks more and more like just that  hype. Drones have a short battery life, and privacy concerns can be a hindrance, too.

"I don't think you will see delivery of burritos or diapers in the suburbs," says drone analyst Colin Snow.

Drone usage has grown rapidly in some industries, but mostly outside the retail sector and direct interaction with consumers.

The government estimates that about 110,000 commercial drones are operating in U.S. airspace, and the number is expected to soar to about 450,000 in 2022. They are being used in rural areas for mining and agriculture, for inspecting power lines and pipelines, and for surveying.

Amazon says it is still pushing ahead with plans to use drones for quick deliveries, though the company is staying away from fixed timelines.

"We are committed to making our goal of delivering packages by drones in 30 minutes or less a reality," says Amazon spokeswoman Kristen Kish. The Seattle-based online retail giant says it has drone development centres in the United States, Austria, France, Israel and the United Kingdom.

Delivery companies have been testing the use of drones to deliver emergency supplies and to cover ground quickly in less populated areas. By contrast, package deliveries would be concentrated in office parks and neighbourhoods where there are bigger issues around safety and privacy.

In May, the Trump administration approved a three-year program for private companies and local government agencies to test drones for deliveries, inspections and other tasks.

But pilot programs by major delivery companies suggest few Americans will be greeted by package-bearing drones any time soon. United Parcel Service tested launching a drone from a delivery truck that was covering a rural route in Florida. DHL Express, the German delivery company, tested the use of drones to deliver medicine from Tanzania to an island in Lake Victoria.

Frank Appel, the CEO of DHL's parent company, Deutsche Post AG, said "over the next couple of years" drones will remain a niche vehicle and not widely used. He said a big obstacle is battery life.

"If you have to recharge them every other hour, then you need so many drones and you have to orchestrate that. So good luck with that," he told The Associated Press.

Appel said human couriers have another big advantage over drones: They know where customers live and which doorbell to ring. "To program that in IT is not that easy and not cheap," he said.

Analysts say it will take years for the Federal Aviation Administration to write all the rules to allow widespread drone deliveries.Sajjad Lone's father responsible for gun culture in Kashmir Valley: Farooq Abdullah

India

oi-Vikas SV

Srinagar, Dec 3: People's Conference chairman Sajad Lone is now on the cross hairs of National Conferance president Farooq Abdullah. Sajad Lone, a separatist-turned-politician, has in the past slammed both the NC and the PDP for encouraging dynasty politics culture in theri respectives parties.

Farooq Abdullah on Sunday claimed that late Abdul Gani Lone, the father of Sajjad Lone, was responsible for gun culture in Jammu and Kashmir.

Farooq, who has served as the state's Chief Minister three times, said Sajad's father had met him when his government was dismissed in January 1990.

Sajjad Gani Lone 'happy' for dynastic parties joining hands in J&K

"When I was dismissed by Jagmohan, Sajjad Lone's father came to me and said that I'm going to Pakistan to bring guns. I prayed to him with folded hands and told him that it will kill many people and army personnel in the state but he did not listen," Farooq Abdullah told the media.

Abdullah also welcomed the opening of the Kartarpur corridor and sought the opening of roads extending into Pakistan occupied Kashmir across the Line of Control. "Opening of such more roads between the divided parts of Jammu and Kashmir is the way to help people of the two sides to come closer and not let them feel isolated," he said, as per an Indian Express report.

Who was Abdul Ghani Lone?

Abdul Ghani Lone was a Kashmiri lawyer, politician and Kashmiri separatist leader. Lone was born in Dard Hare, Kupwara District. He earned a law degree from Aligarh Muslim University in 1957. He made his entry into politics serving in the state assembly as a Congress candidate in 1967. In 1978, he formed a Kashmiri separatist organization called People's Conference dedicated to "the restoration of 'internal autonomy' in Kashmir."

He was assassinated on 21 May 2002 while commemorating the twelfth anniversary of the death of Kashmiri leader, Mirwaiz Maulvi Farooq. Eyewitnesses said that earlier in the day a group of youths arrived at the Idgah, shouting pro-Pakistan slogans, and two of them fired on Lone.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 9:25 [IST]Muzaffarpur shelter home sex scandal: Court extends CBI remand of Brajesh Thakur's aides

India

pti-PTI

Muzaffarpur (Bihar), Dec 3: A court here Monday extended the CBI remand of two close aides of Brajesh Thakur, the prime accused in the Muzaffarpur shelter home sex scandal, by three days.

[Muzaffarpur shelter home case: Manju Verma sent to 1 day police remand]

Special judge R P Tiwari, hearing cases filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, extended the CBI remand of Madhu Kumari, who managed many of Thakur's NGOs, newspapers and other businesses, and Ashwini -- a self-proclaimed medical practitioner who was attached to the shelter home as a "doctor".

The two were arrested two weeks ago and have been in the custody of the central probe agency since November 21. Media reports have alleged that Ashwini used to administer injections laced with sedatives to the inmates of the home with the help of Madhu, after which the girls would be subjected to sexual abuse. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which is probing the case, produced both Madhu and Ashwini in the POCSO court after the period of their remand expired Monday.

On the probe agency's request, the court extended their remand by three days. Madhu, who could not be traced by the CBI for months, was arrested on November 21. She had made a dramatic appearance the previous day at the local CBI office, claiming that she had come to "cooperate" in the probe since she was miffed at the inconvenience faced by her family members when the agency sleuths visited her house in order to find out her whereabouts.

Ashwini was arrested on November 20 from his village in Kurhani block of the district. The alleged sexual abuse of the inmates at the Balika Grih in the Sahu Road locality came to light following a social audit of Bihar's shelter homes by the Mumbai based Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS).

["Fantastic. Ex-minister not traceable": Supreme Court pulls up Bihar police]

An FIR was lodged in this connection on May 31 against 11 persons, including Thakur, who was running the shelter home. As the issue rocked the state legislature and Parliament, a CBI inquiry was recommended by the Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government in July.

A fortnight later, state Social Welfare Minister Manju Verma stepped down following reports of close links between her husband Chandrashekhar Verma and Thakur.

Thakur, who was initially shifted to Bhagalpur in view of the fact that he was a "renowned citizen" and his presence in Muzaffarpur could come in the way of a fair probe, is currently lodged in a jail in Punjab's Patiala following a Supreme Court order.

PTISuper Sunday: 6 terrorists killed, toll reaches 233 and the year hasnt ended

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Srinagar, Dec 3: It was a super Sunday for the security forces. The forces managed to gun down six terrorists on a single day in an encounter that took place at the Shopian district.

The Army and the police continue to maintain their successful hit rate after they had gunned down 37 terrorists in the month of November. The current count of the number of terrorists being gunned down this year alone stands at 233.

On Sunday, a joint team of the Indian Army's 34 Rashtriya Rifles, CRPF and SOG Shopian launched a cordon and search operation in Batagund after getting credible information about the presence of terrorists in the area. In the gun fight that followed, the forces managed to kill six terrorists.

Police arrest ISJK recruit in Srinagar

In the last week of November, the Army launched six encounters and managed to kill 28 terrorists. In the entire month of November, the Army gunned down 37 terrorists, which also included the high profile killing of Lashkar-e-Tayiba commander Naveed Jatt.

The forces also managed a considerable amount of success in the terror infested Shopian district. In the month of November 13 terrorists were killed in this district.

While this year so far the forces have killed 233 terrorists, last year the count stood at 207.

Another issue that the security mechanism can be proud of is that there were no recruitments of local youth in the past two months. This is a big achievement in itself said Dilbag Singh, the Director General of Police, Jammu and Kashmir. The people must heave a sigh of relief as South Kashmir will see less of terrorism, Singh also said.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 8:58 [IST]Tharoor attributes Rahul Gandhis temple hopping to the Bharatiya Janata Party

India

oi-Vinod Kumar Shukla

New Delhi, Dec 3: Congress president Rahul Gandhi is hopping from one temple to another in the country during this election season. He visited Mahakal Temple in Indore, Pitambara Peeth in Datia, Kailash Mansaroval and many more temples and Lok Sabha MP of the Congress from Thiruvananthapuram Shashi Tharoor has attributed this to the Bharatiya Janata Party.

[Never claimed to have understood Hinduism completely, but Rahul can: Modi]

On being asked that why Rahul Gandhi is visiting one after another temple, Tharoor said, "The Congress has been feeling from very long that it has to display its faith in public with force. We do have faith in God but we never felt like publicly displaying it before people because the Congress is the party of Jawahar Lal Nehru ji's secular tradition. He had stuck to this ideology even during the independent movement."

Tharoor said that but the BJP has forced the Congress to do so. The BJP has started this campaign to differentiate between the true Hindu and atheist secular. He said that if this debate is started in a country like India where religion is deep rooted then secularism will always be at the receiving end. So the Congress has decided to display its religious faith but the party will take everyone along even in this to move ahead. These days Rahul Gandhi is in election rallies and he specially planning to visit temples.

[I am Kaul Brahmin and my gotra is Dattatreya, Rahul tells priests at Brahma Temple in Pushkar]

Defending Rahul Gandhi further, the Kerala MP said, "It is absolutely incorrect to look at the matter that we visit temples for being opportunists and for selfish goals." He said that when Rahul Gandhi calls himself a Shiv Bhakt he knows what is he saying. The Congress leader said, "I had spoken to Rahul Gandhi on religion and spiritualism several times and he has a very deep understanding on these subjects. He understands these issues very well."

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 21:27 [IST]Uttar Pradesh to soon have 5 international airports, highest for any state

UP CM warns Owaisi: Followers of 'abba jaan', don't try to inflame passions over CAA

Uttar Pradesh: Cop, villager killed as protest over illegal slaughter houses turns violent

India

oi-Chennabasaveshwar P

Bulandshahr, Dec 3: A police inspector and a villager were killed were killed in a clash between police and people protesting against illegal slaughter house in Bulandshahr district, Uttar Pradesh.

District Magistrate Bulandshahr Anuj Jha said that one police inspector was killed in the violence, reports news agency ANI.

Additional Director General of Meerut zone Prashant Kumar said a mob pelted the police with stones and indulged in arson setting several vehicles and the Chingarwathi Police Chowki on fire, reports PTI

Wrong to divide Gods into castes: Minister hits out at Yogi Adityanath

According to reports, Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh was killed when protesters attacked and ransacked the Sayana police station. Also, the mob set the police van on fire. The whole area turned into a battlefield. Singh was involved in the investigation in the murder of Mohammad Akhlaq, a resident of Uttar Pradesh's Dadri village who was lynched by a mob in September 2015 over another incident of alleged cow slaughter.

Five officials, including a circle officer, were wounded in the clashes that began around 11am just 130km from New Delhi. Soon it spread to nearby villages.

ADG Police from Meerut has left for the Bulandshahr and has ordered deployment of force.

Anand Kumar,(ADG L&O), told reporters "People complained that cattle carcass was found in a field, villagers were assured action, but villagers carried carcass on a tractor & blocked the main road, protest turned violent and stones were pelted on police, forces retaliated with lathi charge."

Expressing grief over the incident, chief minister Yogi Adityanath, who was in Rajasthan for election campaign, said action will be taken against the guilty after the probe reports were received. He also said financial assistance would be given to the affected persons.

Samajwadi Party (SP) national president Akhilesh Yadav called the Bulandshahr incident unfortunate. "Ever since this government came to power policing has collapsed. The murder of the police inspector proves that UP is under 'jungle raj'."World Disability Day: The way society sees the physically challenged must change

India

oi-Vikas SV

New Delhi, Dec 3: Every year, December 3 is observed as the World Disability Day. The main aim of this day is to make people aware about the rights of the disabled persons and change the way society treats them. Since 1992, it has been celebrated continuously every year with a lot of success all over the world.

If we look around us, we will find that people with disabilities face a lot of difficulties. These difficulties are not just related to their disability but also due to the way society treats them. They find it hard to get jobs, are not treated with dignity and strive hard to lead a normal life.

Bedridden, physically challenged Kerala man makes umbrellas to protect others from rain, sun

One of the reasons why despite all good intentions, we as a nation have not been able to move forward towards including people with disabilities in the mainstream, allowing them equitable access to the same opportunities that are available to every other citizen, is because we have not been able to understand and accept the idea of disability as a part of human diversity.

Every year celebration of the international day of disabled persons focuses on the different issues of the disabled persons all across the world. This year's theme focuses on empowering persons with disabilities for an inclusive, equitable and sustainable development as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

What society can do?

Firstly, we must stop seeing a disabled person as different. It is not sympathy that they need but empathy. Being a person with a disability is as normal or abnormal as being of a certain gender, race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation.

Jamshedpur: Cops allegedly beat mentally, physically challenged man near Jubilee Park

Most of the people even do not known that how many people are disabled in the society around their houses. They are getting their equal rights like normal people in the society or not. They need some assistance by the normal people to rise in the life, to get dignity and life of well being. But, generally the people in the society never know all the needs of them. According to the record, it is found that approximately 15% of the total population of the world is disabled people.

So, it is very necessary to celebrate this event to get people aware about the real condition of the people with disabilities. People with the disabilities come under "the world's largest minority" and faces a lot of obstructions in all the aspects of life because of the lack of proper resources and rights for them.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 11:55 [IST]Court orders salary of cop to be stopped for non-appearance in SP leaders murder case

UP: Police to deliver FIRs at doorsteps of lockdown violators

Nawazuddin Siddiqui arrives in Budhana for Eid, placed under 14-day home quarantine

Wrong to divide Gods into castes: Minister hits out at Yogi Adityanath

India

pti-PTI

Muzaffarnagar (UP), Dec 3: Taking strong objection to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's "Lord Hanuman is Dalit" remark, state minister Om Prakash Rajbhar said it was wrong to divide Gods into castes.

Addressing a public meeting in Shamli district on Sunday, the backward classes welfare minister criticised his own government for starting a controversy with such statements.

It is wrong to divide Gods into castes and due to this controversy, Dalit community is demanding to takeover Hanuman temples, he said.

India is my father's country, none can force me to flee: Owaisi

While addressing a rally in Rajasthan's Alwar district last week, Adityanath had said, "Hanuman was a forest dweller, deprived and a Dalit. 'Bajrang Bali' worked to unite all Indian communities, from north to south and east to west".

Owaisi will have to flee from Telangana if BJP comes to power: Yogi Adityanath

Reacting to the remarks, Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar had Sunday said members of the community should take over all Hanuman temples in the country and appoint Dalits as priests there.

Rajbhar also hit out at the state government for not providing 27 per cent reservation to the Kashyap community.

PTIBangladesh polls: Ex-premier Zias nomination papers rejected

International

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Dhaka, Dec 3: The candidature of jailed former Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia, who has filed her nomination papers for the upcoming general election in the country from three constituencies, has been rejected Sunday by the Election Commission due to her convictions in two graft cases.

The Commission's decision came four days after the Bangladesh High Court ruled that a person jailed for more than two years cannot contest polls, effectively ruining Zia's chance to participate in the December 30 polls.

Zia Orphanage graft case: Bangladesh HC enhances Khaleda Zia's punishment to 10 years

The 73-year-old ex-premier is currently serving jail terms in two graft cases involving charities named after her slain husband Ziaur Rahman.

Zia had filed nomination papers from three constituencies -- two from northwestern Bogra and one from southeastern Feni, but the returning officers of the two districts scrapped her nominations as she was convicted by the court, an EC spokesperson said.

As per election rules, a candidate declared unfit to contest polls can appeal to an EC tribunal for revised decisions or could challenge the commission decision to the High Court.

Besides Zia, the nomination of 15 high-profile candidates were also disqualified on different grounds, the spokesperson said.

Zia has been in custody since February 8, when the Dhaka Special Court convicted her in the Zia Orphanage Trust graft case and sentenced her to five years of imprisonment for embezzling 21 million Bangladeshi Taka (USD 252,504) in foreign donations meant for the Trust. On October 30, the High Court doubled her jail term to 10 years.

On October 29, a trial court convicted her in the Zia Charitable Trust graft case and sentenced her to seven years in prison and imposed a fine of Tk 1 million (USD 12,024).

Zia was made vice-chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the largest political opposition of the country, in March 1983 after the assassination of her husband. She became chairperson of the party on May 10, 1984, a post she is holding till now.

2004 violence verdict corners Oppn more: Is Bangladesh now a one-party state?

In her 35 years of political career, Zia went to the jail several times.

During the 2007-2008 tenure of the army-backed caretaker government, she was in jail for about a year on charges of corruption.

The BNP, which boycotted the 2014 elections under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League (AL) government, is set to contest the polls in alliance with the newly formed National Unity Front (NUF) led by eminent jurist Kamal Hossain.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 6:45 [IST]Those days of instability! India saw four prime ministers during the tenure of George H W Bush

As George H W Bush is laid to rest, his service dog Sully also mourns like million others

Former US president George H W Bush dead: Why people loved looking at his ankles

International

oi-Shubham Ghosh

Washington, Dec 3: The United States is still mourning the death of its former president George H W Bush who passed away at his residence in Houston, Texas, last week at the age of 94. Bush was famous for a number of reasons on the statecraft front - be it leading the way in concluding the Cold War or winning the Gulf War of 1991.

But there was also another reason for which the 41st occupant of the White House was famous and it was his obsession for colourful socks. He just loved to wear them, with a different pattern for each occasion. He even called himself a "sock man", said a TODAY report.

After George H W Bush's death, Trump did something people liked... for a change

The former president's collection of the colourful footwear became all the more vivid when he lost his ability to walk because of vascular parkinsonism and moved around on wheelchairs. Since he moved around sitting, his socks were always visible and they were too colourful, to say the least.

"Brandishing colorful socks is simply his way of making the best of his mobility situation and still finding the joy in life," Bush's daughter Doro Bush Koch wrote in her book "My Father, The President".

Bush even made his socks special in the past by wearing colourful footwear with his own face embossed on them while accepting an award in 2013. Also, during his 89th birth anniversary teh same year, he wore a pair of socks that were Superman branded. In 2017, when former president Bill Clinton (he succeeded him in 1993), visited Bush, he brought with him some pairs of socks to enrich the latter's unique collection.

How did George HW Bush ever convince America that he was boring? The man has socks featuring his face. h/t @pagelav pic.twitter.com/65ERTRJS9J  DavidKenner (@DavidKenner) December 4, 2013

Some may wonder what a self proclaimed sock man wears on his 89th bday. I think he's as super as the socks. #41s89th pic.twitter.com/eYoK3LJSOy  Jenna Bush Hager (@JennaBushHager) June 12, 2013

Great to spend time with @GeorgeHWBush & Mrs. Bush in Houston today. We caught up about kids, grandkids, old times and new times. And socks. pic.twitter.com/CshV6tI5Ae  Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) April 9, 2017

The socks worn by the 41st President of the United States of America at todays funeral for former First Lady Barbara Bush. pic.twitter.com/12libHt1Jv  Jim McGrath (@jgm41) April 21, 2018

At the funeral of his wife Barbara who passed away earlier this year, Bush chose to honour her commitments to family literacy by wearing socks decorated with books.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 9:06 [IST]Mumbai 26/11 attacks were bad, but the lack of will to hit Pakistan hurt the nation

Qureshi defends 'googly' comments, says linking it to Sikh sentiments misleading

International

pti-PTI

Islamabad, Dec 2: Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday defended his controversial "googly"comments, which drew sharp criticism from India, saying that linking his remarks to "Sikh sentiments" was misleading.

On Thursday, Qureshi had said Prime Minister Imran Khan bowled a "googly" to ensure Indian government's presence at the groundbreaking ceremony of the landmark Kartarpur Corridor.

A googly is a leg-spinner's prize weapon, which is almost undetectable. Qureshi noted that it was the same Indian government that had said it will not engage with Pakistan sent two ministers to the groundbreaking ceremony.

Khan on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Corridor linking two revered gurdwaras on both sides of the border in Kartarpur in Punjab province. Union ministers from India, Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri, along with Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu, attended the event in Pakistan Punjab province's Narowal area.

Sushma Swaraj asks Pak PM Imran Khan to clarify his Foreign Minister's 'Kartarpur googly' remark

Qureshi's remarks drew strong criticism from External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, who came down heavily on her Pakistani counterpart saying his comments "exposed" him and that Pakistan has "no respect for Sikh sentiments". Qureshi took to Twitter on Sunday to respond to the criticisms. "Dragging my comment towards 'Sikh sentiments' is a deliberate attempt to misrepresent & mislead. What I said was strictly with ref to bilateral interaction with the Indian Govt," he tweeted.

"We have deep respect for Sikh sentiments and no amount of distortions or controversies would change it," he said. Qureshi also said the Kartarpur Corridor was opened to fulfil the desires of the Sikh community.

"In deference to the long-standing desires of our Sikh brethren, we decided to open the Kartarpur Corridor. We have taken this historic initiative in good faith and will carry it forward in good faith," he tweeted.

Earlier in a series of tweets on Saturday, Swaraj said,"Mr. Foreign Minister of Pakistan - Your 'googly' remarks in a dramatic manner has exposed none but YOU. This shows that you have no respect for Sikh sentiments. You only play 'googlies'."

"Let me explain to you that we were not trapped by your 'googlies'. Our two Sikh Ministers went to Kartarpur Sahib to offer prayers in the Holy Gurudwara," she said.

Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal also took exception to Qureshi's remarks and warned Pakistan that it should not use the Kartarpur Corridor issue and religion to fulfil its "evil designs" of vitiating the peaceful atmosphere in India and particularly in Punjab. She said the issue was a matter of faith and there is no scope for "one-upmanship" and "petty politics" on it.

"Going to Sri Kartarpur Sahib was a matter of faith for me. Indulging in one-upmanship on this sacred issue is uncalled for. No one was bowled over by any 'googly'. PM Modi and ministers have only respected sentiments of Sikhs by authoring and participating in this noble initiative," she said on Friday.

"If you think you will be able to fulfil your evil designs by misusing our religion, you are mistaken...do not use religion to fulfil your evil intentions," she said.Photo: Alanna Kelly Roses placed at the Sails in 2017.

Kelowna residents will come together Thursday to remember women who have been killed and to put an end to violence against women.

The vigil take place at 6 p.m. at The Sails, where roses will be laid.

Organizer Olivia Hofer says every week in Canada at least one woman is murdered by a boyfriend or spouse.

More than half of those have reported domestic violence to the police, she said.

One in five young women are in an abusive relationship, and 13 women and girls are sexually assaulted every day in B.C., she adds.

Indigenous women are six times more likely to be murdered than non-Indigenous women, said Hofer.

Thursday marks the National Day of Remembrance and Action to end Violence Against Women.

Hofer says women of all backgrounds and ages are at risk.

Back in 1991, there was a memorial list of about 20 names. That list has now grown to include over 80 names.

We must remember, and then we must act, said Hofer.Benjamin Netanyahu says he spoke to Biden about COVID, Iran

Exit polls indicate no clear winner in Israeli elections: Will it end the Netanyahu era?

Trouble on board: Israel police recommend indicting Netanyahu in third graft probe

International

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Jerusalem, Dec 3: Israeli police on Sunday recommended indicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara for bribery and other offences, the third such recommendation against the premier in recent months.

The attorney general will now decide whether to bring indictments in the case, which centres on regulatory benefits allegedly granted to telecommunications firm Bezeq in exchange for positive coverage from a related media company.

Hamas announces ceasefire with Israel after severe escalation of violence

Police in February recommended indicting the prime minister in two other corruption investigations.

Netanyahu immediately rejected the accusations against him and his wife, claiming "these recommendations were determined and leaked even before the investigations began."

He has repeatedly called the allegations against him in all three cases a plot by his political enemies to force him from office.

"I'm sure that in this case the relevant authorities, after examining the issue, will reach the same conclusion: that there was nothing because there is nothing," he said in a statement.

Police said there was evidence to charge Netanyahu with bribery, fraud, breach of trust and unlawful acceptance.

Israel passes Jewish nation-state law, strips Arabic of official language status

They recommended Sara Netanyahu face charges of bribery, fraud, breach of trust and obstruction of evidence.

The three cases involving the long-serving premier have led to speculation over whether he will eventually have to step down.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 7:13 [IST]Talks with China will not help says USA NSA on situation on Ladakh

20 members of a family removed from US flight after mask of 1 slipped under nose

Trump, Xi calls ceasefire in trade war at G20 talks

International

oi-Shubham Ghosh

Buenos Aires, Dec 3: While the cancellation of US President Donald Trump's meeting with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin at the recently held G20 summit in the Argentianian capital was a low point, his successful meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping was undoubtedly a high moment.

Trump and Xi met over dinner on the sidelines of the summit on Saturday, the concluding day, and decided to stop the escalation of the trade war with a promise of not imposing new tariffs for a period of 90 days.

China, US agree no new tariffs 'after January 1'

The leaders of the world's two biggest economies that have been at loggerheads over trade of late, also agreed to intensify their trade-related interactions, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi informed the media hours later here.

"Both sides believe that the principled agreement reached between the two presidents has effectively prevented the further expansion of economic frictions between the two countries," he was quoted as saying.

G20 Summit: Moscow disappointed over cancellation of Trump-Putin talks

Washington called the meeting "highly successful" and said that the US will leave the existing tariffs on Chinese goods worth $200 billion at 10 per cent and stop short of raising the rate to 25 per cent as planned on January 1, 2019.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 11:14 [IST]UP: 28-year-old woman set ablaze by molesters, battling for life in hospital

Lucknow

oi-Vikas SV

Lucknow, Dec 3: In a highly condemnable incident, a 28-year-old woman was set ablaze by two men, who had molested her earlier and against whom she had approached the police to lodge a compliant, in Uttar Pradesh's Sitapur.

The two accused have been identified as Rajesh and Ramu and one of them has been arrested, said an NDTV report. The victim had gone to the police station thrice in the last few days to file a compliant against her molesters, but was sent away by the cops.

Mumbai: 21-year-old woman held for sexually assaulting her 17-year-old 'husband'

Three policemen including the station house officer (SHO) and the head constable have also been suspended for negligence, reports quoted the police as saying.

"Two men burnt her alive. She is 40-45% burnt, her face and upper body is affected. She was molested on 29 November. On 1Dec, she was burnt alive when she went to washroom. One accused has been arrested. The probe is on," ANI quoted Sujeet Kumar. Pandey, IG Lucknow Zone, as saying.

Her family alleged that when she went to the local police station immediately after the accused tried to molest her, the cops on duty sent her away. The next day her in-laws called a Police Control Room or PCR van to their house but again the cops, who were in the vehicle asked her to revisit the same police station, NDTV report said.

Horrific: 'Alcoholic' man smashes heads of three minor daughters with hammer

The woman arrived at her in-laws' house and shared the ordeal after which her family informed police about the incident. A police team arrived at their home but left after asking the family to lodge a written complaint in the same police station from where she was turned back.

On Saturday, when the woman was going to the police station the two men once again stopped and poured kerosene on her, after which they set her ablaze.

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Story first published: Monday, December 3, 2018, 13:15 [IST]Pakistans economy has knocked down badly as the countrys currency has fell down to all-time low of Rs 144 against US dollar on Saturday. The economy of smacked by a major shock after the countrys curency is shed by Rs 10 after it was traded at Rs 134 on Thursday.

Pasban Democratic Party leader Prof Dr Shahida Wizarat has said to a daily that massive devaluation of Pakistani rupee has helped Pakistan qualify for IMF loan, but this devaluation will bring more economic losses to the country.

Commenting on free fall of the rupee, Prof Dr Shahida Wizarat said we have adopted IMF policies and installed those on IMF and World Bank payroll and pensions since 1990s. They have not brought the prosperity that the prime minister and finance minister are aspiring for, she said.

She said on the contrary we seem to be heading for action replay of the 1990s when PML and PPP governments put blindfolds and jumped into liberalization and privatization policies as a result of signing agreements with the IMF. The end result was massive decline in investments, GDP growth, massive unemployment (2 million according to government figures), massive poverty (ADB estimates 50 per cent for Pakistan and 85 per cent for interior Sindh), horrendous increase in crimes and finally the political crises which brought down many governments before completing their tenures. By allowing free float of the Pakistani Rupee the government has pre qualified the country to signing an agreement with the IMF, she said. Now only the agreement has to be signed and the money disbursed, as the conditionalities have been fulfilled prior to the agreement, said Dr Wizarat.

She said intelligent governments with knowledge about economics have been more pragmatic and have intervened in the economy very aggressively to save their economies from collapse. But Pakistan has been left to fend for its self. The government will not intervene to save the economy from collapse as the Finance Minister has made clear.

It is very dangerous when people who have no knowledge about economics become "free marketers" as the present government has become. It is like putting a blindfold and leading the country into a steep quagmire from which it will be difficult to get out, she said.As per Swiss Bank strict policy, it never will never disclose the account details even on request by the Government of depositers country. However, taking note of the Indian Governments continuous appeal, the Government of Switzerland has decided to share with the authorities the details of the two companies and three individuals who are facing the investigations continuously in India.

As per separate gazette notifications of the Swiss government, the country's federal tax department has agreed to provide 'administrative assistance' to India on requests made about Geodesic Ltd and Aadhi Enterprises Private Ltd.

Geodesic Ltd is already under market regulator Sebis radar for multiple violations, Aadhi Enterprises Private Ltd is said to be politically well connected. The Swiss federal tax department has also agreed to share information on three individuals associated with Geodesic - Pankajkumar Onkar Srivastava, Prashant Sharad Mulekar and Kiran Kulkarni.

Even though, Aadhi doesnt have any history in big business transactions, it received Rs 250 crore from Pacatolous Investments Ltd, a Mauritius firm, as foreign direct investment with RBI clearance for land acquisition.

Aadhis name first popped up during I-T raids on the premises of Edison Energy India Private Ltd in Chennai, sources said.The NDA government, after coming with two of the biggest reforms  demonetisation and GST, is ready for another stroke. Before the Modi Government completes its tenure in the first of 2019, it is rolling out major changes to the customs duty architecture to give a major boost to Indias trade.

These changes will help to do away with the face-to-face interaction with tax officials, bring automated release of goods and ensure the traceability of the goods. These changes will ensure corruption and bribery, as well as the strong movement of the goods.

Chairman of Central Bank of Indirect Taxes and Customs S Ramesh said in an exclusive interview with the Economic Times, "We want to go in for something which will be radically different from what we have been doing. We are going to venture into a new territory called faceless assessment. We could start a pilot in a months time.

Ramesh also stated in the interview with ET that they want to acquire the 50th position in ease of doing business ranking of World Bank. India is already jumped from the 146th position to 80th rank in the trading across borders category.Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 3)  After posting bail for alleged child abuse, former lawmaker Satur Ocampo and his fellow accused will be facing a new case, the country's top cop said.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Dir. Gen. Oscar Albayalde said five parents raised complaints to the police and are planning to file a kidnapping case against the accused.

"A kidnapping case was filed against them pero hindi tinanggap ng piskalya pero hindi dinismiss [the fiscal did not accept it but they did not dismiss it] so I just talked with the Regional Director this morning and they will be refiling the case because there are five parents who signed their affidavits and are planning to file a case of kidnapping laban dito kina [against] Satur Ocampo," Albayalde told the press on Monday.

Ocampo and 17 of his colleagues posted bail on Saturday after they were seized for alleged kidnapping and for their failure to return 14 minors from the Salugpungan school for Lumad children in Talaingod, Davao del Norte on November 29.

Bayan Muna Party-list Representative Carlos "Kaloi" Zarate said they posted bail amounting to 1.44 million  80,000 per respondent  for alleged child abuse or the violation of the Anti-Child Abuse Law. They have ten days to respond to the charges, Zarate added.

Ocampo said he and his party were merely "rescuing" students from the school, which Zarate said was reportedly "padlocked" by the military. He denied any kidnapping or abuse occurred in the incident.

"Walang kidnapping, walang trafficking at walang abuse na nangyari [No kidnapping, trafficking or abuse happened]. That was a response to a humanitarian crisis," Zarate said.

Ocampo said he and his colleagues were illegally detained Friday without a warrant, until the police supposedly fabricated one the next day. He said the police argued that they were serving an arrest warrant for his involvement in the Palayan City murder case, which was dismissed in August.

"Kaya kami hinarang, dahil may arrest warrant ako sa Palayan City murder case. Di ba nila alam na na-drop na 'yung case na yun?" Ocampo told the media Sunday.

[Translation: We were barred from leaving because I have an arrest warrant from the Playan City murder case. Didn't they know that case was already dropped?]

However, Albayalde denied these claims, saying the police cannot come up with charges without a complainant.

"What is important here is we based our charges based on the complaint of the parents and the relatives. Hindi nanggagaling sa amin 'yan. Hindi kami gumagawa basta-basta ng charges. Hindi tatanggapin ng korte 'yan " Albayalde said.

[Translation: What is important here is we based our charges based on the complaint of the parents and the relatives. Those do not come from us. We do not just fabricate charges. The court will not accept that.]

'Exploitation'

Albayalde also shed light on the school in question. He said the Lumad school was reportedly "exploiting" indigenous peoples by teaching their students how to conduct rallies and to recite a different national anthem.

"We're not telling that school is illegitimate but what they are saying is what they teach in that school dahil sabi nila na pati yung pambansang awit na pinapakanta nila ay ibaTinuturo nila kung papaano magrally at tinuturo nila kung anu-ano para doon sa kilusan," he said.

[Translation: We're not telling that that school is illegitimate but what they are saying is what they teach in that school because they said even the national anthem they are required to sing is different..they are teaching them how to conduct rallies among others things to use in their movements.]

This comes after ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro challenged the police chief to visit the schools and observe the lessons being taught to the students.

"Albayalde, hinahamon kita, sasamahan kita sa isang Lumad school at makikita mo kung gaano kagagaling ang mga estudyante sa mga Lumad school," She said Sunday.

[Translation: Albayalde I am challenging you. I will come with you to a lunar school and you will see how intelligent the students are in the Lumad school.]

However, Albayalde merely brushed off the idea, saying the schools may have already revised their lessons once he visits them.note: This Text appeared on the 11. November 2018 for the first time on our page. We publish it due to recent events, once again: Because the US health authority CDC has published data, according to which the average life expectancy of US citizens is decreasing due to the growing drug epidemic, and an increasing number of suicides. The life expectancy in the year of 2017 stood at 78.6 years, and 0.1 years below the figure for the previous year, the CDC. Such a drop is for a highly developed industrial country, which is very unusual.

The culprits, says Donald Trump on the opioid crisis, be the addict yourself. The young people you should not teach simply that drugs were good. It also calls for the execution of drug dealers. Egged on by this punishment zeal, some Sheriffs are already pursuing in the United States people whose crime is that they were in the room when someone gave an Overdose.

The Schuldigeren, however, as it accounted for many in the country, and magazines and Newspapers, reports no drug dealer, and you will be punished. To the family of Sackler's a whole wing in the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Louvre in Paris is named. They are considered to be generous patrons of the arts and, with a fortune of 13 billion dollars to the richest families in America.

A wealth, to a large extent at the expense of millions of people amassed, the family Sackler drive with your pharmaceutical company Purdue in the Addiction.

The Sacklers have triggered this crisis, in the since 1999, more than 200,000 Americans died. It is a typical American crisis, fueled by the greed of the pharmaceutical industry, political, regulatory timidity, and the culture of "a pill for every ill" , this Life of many Americans in the medications promise you with a better and pain-free life.

oxycontin is related to Heroin

The crisis began with a drug that promised the people relief and the Sacklers wealth. Oxycontin. A painkillers as a wonder weapon, the patients with medium and severe pain, and persistent promises relief. A drug, powerful like no other on the market. Ingredient is pure oxycodone, the chemical is related to Heroin and almost twice as strong as morphine.

"maneuvers" 16-Year-old swamp crashes in drugs  mother has a bold idea to save him From Katharina Frick

for a long time known that there is hardly more dangerous drugs than opioids, because they are addictive. Therefore, Doctors are also very cautious and prescribe ill, primarily cancer and palliative care patients. However, in 1995 the changes. Because Purdue, the pharmaceutical company, the Sacklers, is one of the largest marketing campaigns in US history starts. The promise: Twelve hours of Oxycontin effect, and because the impact of stopping so long, would not need people to miss, because there was no Kick. Oxycontin, confirmed at the time, even the American drug licensing authority, be less addiction to hazardous than other pain relievers.

Purdue-trained representatives, produced Videos, and paid Doctors, announce in their brochures that the risk of addiction is very low. Doctors flying to conferences in expensive Hotels, where you this promise, together with good earnings forecasts will be announced. The Doctors who participate in these conferences, to prescribe Oxycontin twice as often as any other, determined the company.

is The Addiction that often starts with the advice of a doctor.

The most dangerous drug epidemic in the United States has its origins not in the South American drug laboratories. The suffering often begins with the advice of a doctor, an Betticket advertising message of another, of a pharmaceutical company paid for doctor.

And Purdue claims with new, paid studies, Oxycontin was so harmless, that you could also apply it to larger and larger Patient groups. Because the American health care system is mainly in a brutal business model, pulling the pharmaceutical industry, Doctors do not prescribe it supposedly enough, in front of ethics committees.

sends During Purdue its representatives to the Doctors and say, the risk of addiction was less than one percent, an internal study long to the disturbing result that 13 percent of patients taking the drug for headaches revenue, were addictive.

In 2000, Purdue deserves to Oxycontin a billion dollars. Company boss Richard Sackler proclaimed: "There is no sign that it is slowing down."

This also applies to the addiction epidemic, the it triggers. The reports on drug abuse are on the increase, first in rural regions. Hillbilly Heroin. Everything you do needs to grind the pills and snort. Or in liquid, dissolve, and inject. Thus, the time-delaying effect, and Oxycontin makes high like Heroin. In some areas pharmacies are raided, patients are selling their pills for a Dollar per milligram on the black market.

patients with withdrawal symptoms ask your doctor, and more of the material

But the Sacklers is the pills don't take from the market, to warn of the risk of addiction. Instead of explaining your business, the only Problem is that some people would not take medication as it is prescribed. You know, from the beginning, in the case of Purdue that Oxycontin itself is the Problem. The first study with 90 women in Puerto Rico, had to get it after surgery, evidence that the pill for many patients, had just eight hours and not the stated twelve. Doctors report that their patients with withdrawal symptoms in the practices would be and more Oxycontin required. Some patients die after you have taken it for several months.

it is also clear that Oxycontin patients are doing in the Addiction, refuses to Purdue to admit that the drug poses great risks. In one of the strongholds of the epidemic, in Abingdon, Virginia, will soon be flooded prosecutors with drug-related offences. Keep track of the User, the Doctors, the carrying on a trade with the pills. Until you realize that you can reduce the watering place only when you approach the producers. You collect evidence that Purdue has systematically deceived the Doctors that the company lied to authorities, and studies have been falsified. You are working out charges, you can send in a Report to the Ministry of justice. But instead of pulling the responsible for the accountability agreement behind closed doors on the payment of 634 million dollars, because Purdue has not indicated the risk of addiction is sufficient.

A process against Purdue could be a turning point and an effective warning to the pharmaceutical industry. Instead, the S can acklers continue to do business.

A whole Generation of Dependent

in 2013, Purdue brings with it a slightly modified Version of Oxycontin onto the market. The pills not to be crushed now of powder, but to a rubber-like substance. The Younger the addict, which can be less easily Oxycontin prescribe and which it is too expensive, is now nothing else left than to look for the Kick in the black market drugs like Heroin.

this is The cruel Paradox of Oxycontin: It created addicts a Generation of pain pills. And the new formula forced the younger User away from the drug and resulted in a Generation of heroin addicts.

Updated Date: 03 December 2018, 08:02World Gaming Expo Monaco Rescheduled for Next Year

Published December 3, 2018 by Florin P

The second edition of the prestigious World Gaming Expo Monaco has been postponed for December 2019.

The organizers of the World Gaming Expo Monaco have just announced that this years edition has been postponed for December 2019. One year ago, WGE brought together international companies and industry leaders that made it one of the most important conventions of the year. In order to create a new business structure that will better serve the purpose of the event, the decision was made to reschedule it for the last month of 2019.

World Gaming Expo to Return to Monte Carlo in 2019



Even though the organizers have decided to reschedule the conference, the location hasnt changed and the event will once again take place in Monaco. More than 60 exhibitors will participate and they will showcase their best products in an area of 4000 m, so there is plenty to look forward to. The timing of the second World Gaming Expo Monaco was carefully chosen, not to interfere with other important trade shows. This means that those interested in attending will be able to join the conference without making any compromises for rescheduling existing commitments.

Players and industry professionals alike got the chance to appreciate the opportunities of the World Gaming Expo Monaco at the first edition. Even though some might be disappointed to hear that the second convention was postponed for one year, organizers expect that enthusiasm to remain intact. The decision to host the conference in Monte Carlo will further enhance its appeal and firmly establish the convention as a key event on the international gaming scene.Water Softener Market growth (2018  2024) By Top Key Players - EcoWater Systems LLC, Culligan International, Kinetico Incorporated, Pentair, Morton Salt, Whirlpool Corporation, 3M

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Global salt free water softener market is anticipated to exceed USD 2 billion in projected timeline owing to its extensive consumption in the U.S. There is no electrical valve required in salt-free softener as system operates as a conditioner and do not captures anything, thus eliminating need to purge minerals. Soft water from this system results in less soap consumption and brighter laundry, which is anticipated to stimulate product demand.New product innovation and rising demand for safe water in residential buildings is projected to drive regional market over forecast timeframe. Increasing monetary standards along with growing awareness about damaging properties of hard water are likely to boost the market growth.Request for a sample copy of this report @Global water softener market size of 120,000 grain from office building application is poised to observe gains of over by 4% 2024. Increase in consumer health consciousness has led to rise in demand for healthy and safe drinking water which is likely spur product demand.Water softener in home decreases greenhouse gases, reduce chlorine content and removes odor with good efficiency is likely to augment product demand. Water appliances use less energy and last longer by using softener reduces carbon footprint and preserving resources for a longer span of time, thereby driving market size.Global water softener market share is competitive and moderately consolidated with key industry precipitants includes, Culligan International Company, General Electric Company, Pentair, Whirlpool, Honeywell International and 3M. Increasing consumption of soft water has encouraged sellers to invest intensely in R&D for the product. Companies are spending more on product design, increasing efficiency and reducing environmental impacts.- Water Softener Market, By Product Salt Based Salt Free- Water Softener Industry, By Application Residentialo Single Familyo Multi Family Commercialo Office Buildingso Hotel/Restaurantso Laundrieso Hospital & Healthcareo Others Industrialo Food Processing unito Textileo Chemicalo Oil & Gaso Refinerieso OthersMake an inquiry for purchasing this report @Water Softener Market size is set to surpass USD 10 billion by 2024; according to a new research report by Global Market Insights, Inc. Intensifying demand for soft water owing to growing industrialization and urbanization may expand water softener market growth by 2024. Growing penetration of multinational brands along with its features including high effectiveness in decreasing formation of scale in boilers, pipes and tanks are likely to further propel product demand. This equipment improves product lifespan of water using appliances by removing salts and minerals, which can damage product quality. Growing customer spending on water treatment equipment supported by increasing contamination issues will propel product demand.Supporting government regulation in Europe and Asia pacific reinforced by R&D activities on water softener manufacturing will promote product demand. Additionally, rising industrial sector and manufacturing industries may fuel water softener demand owing to application of soft water in steam generation, product manufacturing and cleaning.UK salt-based water softener market size in 900,000 grain from hotel/restaurants is likely to surpass USD 3 million due to its usage in removing lime scale on toilets, tile and faucets. It eliminates scale causing minerals in water, subsequently resulting in cleaner fittings and tiles, which may propel product demand.Browse Complete Report Summary @China water softener demand in 1200,000 grain from laundries units is projected to witness gains of up to 7%. Fabric quality is adversely affected along with high amount of detergent is required when hard water is used thus, softener is needed for both cleaning and washing applications. Softening equipment is used in this industry to maintain quality, easy cleaning of fabrics and also reduces the amount of detergent required, which may boost market growth.Global water softener market share is competitive and moderately consolidated with key industry precipitants includes, Culligan International Company, General Electric Company, Pentair, Whirlpool, Honeywell International and 3M. Increasing consumption of soft water has encouraged sellers to invest intensely in R&D for the product. Companies are spending more on product design, increasing efficiency and reducing environmental impacts.About Global Market InsightsGlobal Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology.Contact Us:Arun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb:Sample Collection Tube Market to 2025 - Top Companies are ELITech Group, Radiometer Medical, F.L. Medical, Improve Medical, Nuova Aptaca, Beijing Hanbaihan Medical, Biosigma

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UpMarketResearch offers a latest published report on Global Sample Collection Tube Market Industry Analysis and Forecast 2018-2023 delivering key insights and providing a competitive advantage to clients through a detailed report. The report contains 92 pages which highly exhibits on current market analysis scenario, upcoming as well as future opportunities, revenue growth, pricing and profitability. The report contains basic, secondary and advanced information pertaining to the Sample Collection Tube global status and trend, market size, share, growth, trends analysis, segment and forecasts from 2018 - 2023.Get Free Exclusive PDF Sample Copy of This Report@Sample Collection Tube 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 Sample Collection Tube global status and trend, market size, share, growth, trends analysis, segment and forecasts from 2018 - 2025.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.For more information on this report, please visit@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.The report for Sample Collection Tube market industry analysis & forecast 2018-2025 is segmented into Product Segment, Application Segment & Major players.Region-wise Analysis Global Sample Collection Tube Market covers: North America Europe China Japan India Southeast Asia Other regions (Central & South America, Middle East & Africa)The key players covered in this study ELITech Group Radiometer Medical F.L. Medical Sarstedt Improve Medical BD ALIFAX Nuova Aptaca PLASTI LAB Beijing Hanbaihan Medical Biosigma Vital Diagnostics ENVASES FARMACEUTICOS Tenko International Group BPC BioSedBuy Sample Collection Tube Market analysis & forecast 2018-2025 Report along with complete TOC@Market segment by Type, the product can be split into Blood Sampling Tube Urine Sampling TubeMarket segment by Application, split into Hospital Scientific research institutionsThe Report covers in-depth analysis as follows: Chapter 1 Report Overview Chapter 2 Global Growth Trend Chapter 3 Market Share by Key Player Chapter 4 Breakdown Data by Type and Application Chapter 5 United States Chapter 6 Europe Chapter 7 Chin Chapter 8 Japan Chapter 9 Southeast Asia Chapter 10 India Chapter 11 Central & South America Chapter 12 International Players Profiles Chapter 13 Market Forecast 2018-2025 Chapter 14 Analyst's Viewpoints/Conclusions Chapter 15 AppendixGrab Best Discount Price @Global Sample Collection Tube Market Industry Analysis and Forecast 2018-2025 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 Sample Collection Tube Market Industry Analysis and Forecast 2018-2025 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 Sample Collection Tube market industry analysis and forecast 2018-2025.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.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Wheat Protein Market Forecast 2018-2024 Top Players - BASF, Cargill, Archer Daniels Midland Company, Tereos, Roquette, AGRANA Group, Manildra Group, MGP Ingredients, Agridient B.V.

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Increasing manufacturers focus for enhancing promotions of organic & vegan food items among the targeted consumers owing to the inclining consumer preferences towards vegetarian diets will augment the wheat protein market size. Large raw material availability at comparatively low cost is among the major factors propelling the companies to invest in gluten items resulting in the business expansion.Increasing population will play a vital role in shaping the market growth. As per the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the global population is expected to reach approximately 8.5 billion by 2030 resulting the need for affordable & healthy sustainable food products. Surging demand for crops & cereals enriched with clean nutrients including gluten will provide a positive outlook for the wheat protein market over the forecast period. Wheat protein Market is estimated to exceed USD 2.7 billion by 2024Request sample Copy of This Report @Company Profiles1. BASF2. Cargill3. Archer Daniels Midland Company4. Tereos5. Roquette6. AGRANA Group7. Manildra Group8. MGP Ingredients9. Agridient B.V.10. GLICO11. KERRY INC12. Kroner-Starke13. Crop Energies AG14. Anhui Reapsun FoodNumerous organizations are engaged in product development from plants derived gluten. For instance, International Wheat Gluten Association works with food technologists for product innovation and research of various food applications to improvise nutrition, appearance, cost, and food flavor. Substantial changes in the consumer lifestyle along with the packaged foods and RTE products adoption including pasta & instant noodles will drive the overall wheat protein market growth.Rising consumer awareness pertaining to healthy lifestyle maintenance and growing lactose intolerance cases globally will fuel the demand for vegetarian nutritious products. Increasing plant-based food products adoption for reducing the risk of obesity and diabetes will proliferate wheat protein market size.Browse key industry insights spread across 58 pages with 6 market data tables & 15 figures & charts from the report, Wheat Protein Market Size By Product (Wheat Gluten, Wheat Protein Isolate, Textured Wheat, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein), By Application (Animal feed, Bakery & confectionary, Nutrition Supplements, Dairy Products, Cosmetics & Personal Care), By Form (Dry, Liquid), By Concentration (75%, 85%, 95%), Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook (U.S., Canada, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Sweden, Austria, Poland, Russia, Spain, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia , Australia, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, South Africa, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Egypt) in detail along with the table of contents:Wheat protein market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of volume in Kilo Tons and revenue in USD million from 2013 to 2024, for the following segments:Wheat Protein Market, By Product Wheat gluten Wheat protein isolate Textured wheat protein Hydrolyzed wheat proteinWheat Protein Market, Application Animal feed Bakery & confectionary Nutrition and Supplements Dairy products Cosmetic & personal care OthersWheat Protein Market, By Form Dry LiquidWheat Protein Market, By Concentration 75% 85% 95%Hydrolyzed wheat protein market is projected to observe over 3.1% growth in the forecast period from 2018 to 2024. Increasing demand for organic & natural personal care products such as masks, shampoo, body moisturizers, and hair conditioning will boost the product application scope. Wide utilization of the ingredients owing to its nourishing advantages associated with improved hair & skin health will augment the product portfolio. Moreover, increased utilization as an emulsifying agent in the cosmetic products production will promulgate the overall industry growth.Upsurge in the sports nutrition sector owing to the rising demand for high performance energy drinks and nutritious food products will stimulate the wheat protein market. As per the Global Food Forums seminar in 2017, plant-based nutrients is being increasingly adopted by professional bodybuilders as an alternative to whey. In addition, growing consumer awareness pertaining to the benefits of nutritional supplements will be a key impetus for manufacturers to introduce novel products.Wheat gluten market will witness sales over USD 1.1 billion by 2024. Surging health & fitness awareness among the consumers in Asia Pacific & North America countries will drive the demand for nutritional products, energy drinks, and health supplements. Numerous athletes and sportspersons primarily need adequate protein amount for complete body nutrition in daily exercises, practice performances, and training regimes hence influencing the product demand.Dry form market accounted for over 550 kilotons in 2017. Key properties of the dry form including convenient measuring, low contamination probabilities, and better stability will be a key impetus for the growth of the total wheat protein market. In addition, rapid insurgence in the bakery and confectionary industry owing to the rising demand of the food products among children will further support product landscape.Inquiry before buying @Continue...About Global Market Insights:Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology.Contact Us:Arun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb:Explore Our Blog @Connect with us: Facebook | Google+ | LinkedIn | TwitterBASF, Sherwin Williams, Jotun Profiled in Europe Marine Coating Market Report 2024: ICI Paints, PPG Industries, Kuraray Europe GmbH and Sika

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Graphical Research: Europe Marine Coatings Market analysis based on Product, Application, Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook, Application Development Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2018  2025, estimated to exceed USD 2 billionby 2025.Sturdy demand for marine coating products to increase the vessels life by preventing it from bio fouling and corrosion will propel the Europe marine coating market size by 2025. For instance, many manufacturers in countries such as the UK, Belgium, Spain etc. are producing new coatings with foul-release technology that is useful in substantial fuel savings, especially for large cargo ships. Companies are developing eco-friendly coatings such as metal-free anti-fouling agents to help sustain the aquatic life and control the oceanic pollution, which would positively drive the Europe marine coating market size by 2025.Request for a sample of this research report @Strict government policies against the use of toxic coatings and volatile product prices may become an obstacle in the growth of the Europe marine coating market size in the near future. However, increasing awareness for the use of eco-friendly coatings would profoundly augment the Europe marine coating market size in the forecast period.Anti-fouling coatings accounted for more than 40% of the overall market size in 2017. It is applied to the underwater area of the vessel for better performance and durability. It acts as a barrier for the metal from marine organisms that degrade and weaken it. The coating helps in self-polishing the hull when the vessel travels. The self-polishing property of the coating would boost the product demand directly boosting the Europe marine coating market size by 2025.Europe marine coating market size for leisure boats is projected to rise at a CAGR of more than 5.5% by 2025. Leisure boats demand is likely grow due to the growing disposable income of the population in Western Europe. These boats require a significant amount of maintenance which would improve the product demand in the region propelling the Europe marine coating market size in the near future.Browse key industry insights from this 2018 report @...Europe marine coating market size is likely to grow at a CAGR over 5% in the forecast timespan. Shipping is one of the most important mode of transport in the region. Approximately 90% of all goods come through various vessels such as food, cars, clothes, oil, gas, electrical appliances etc. It is one of the main industry to contribute in the EUs overall GDP. Therefore, marine coating product possesses a significant amount of demand in the region which would augment the Europe marine coating market by 2025.Europe marine coating market share is exceedingly consolidated, with prominent players accounting for over half of the total business size in 2017. The major players include Jotun Paints (Europe) Ltd, Akzo Nobel Coatings, SigmaKalon Group BV, BASF Coatings, ICI Paints, PPG Europe, Kuraray Europe GmbH, Sherwin Williams, Supreme Paints and Coatings and Sika.Make an inquiry for purchasing this report @Segments We Cover:Europe marine coating market, product by applicationAnti-fouling coatingsAnti-corrosion coatingsFoul release coatingsOthersEurope marine coating market, by applicationCoastalContainersDeep seaLeisure boatsOffshore vesselsOthersThe above information is provided on a regional and country basis for the following:GermanyUKFranceSpainItalyBelgiumGreeceDenmarkNetherlandsCroatiaRelated Reports:1. Asia Pacific Marine Coatings Market Share By Product (Anti-Corrosion, Anti-Fouling, Foul Release), By Application (Deep Sea, Leisure Boats, Offshore Vessels, Coastal, Containers), Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook (China, India, Japan, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia), Application Development Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2018  2025...2. Middle East & Africa Marine Coatings Market Size by Product, Application, Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook, Growth Potential, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2018  2024...About Graphical Research:Graphical Research is a business research firm that provides industry insights, market forecast and strategic inputs through granular research reports and advisory services. We publish targeted research reports with an aim to address varied customer needs, from market penetration and entry strategies to portfolio management and strategic outlook. We understand that business requirements are unique: our syndicate reports are designed to ensure relevance for industry participants across the value chain. We also provide custom reports that are tailored to the exact needs of the customer, with dedicated analyst support across the purchase lifecycle.Contact Us:Parikhit B.Corporate sales,Graphical ResearchEmail: sales@graphicalresearh.comWeb:Patient Simulators Market to Witness Huge Growth in 2025 | Key Player Analysis: CAE Healthcare, Laerdal Medical, 3D Systems, Inc., U.S. Security Care, Inc., Gaumard Scientific, Kyoto Kagaku Co., Ltd., Simulab Corporation

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The "Patient Simulators Market Analysis to 2025" is a specialized and in-depth study of the Patient Simulators industry with a focus on the global market trend. The report aims to provide an overview of global Patient Simulators Market with detailed market segmentation by product, end user and geography. The global Patient Simulators Market is expected to witness high growth during the forecast period. The report provides key statistics on the market status of the leading market players and offers key trends and opportunities in the market.Patient simulators are integrated with computer software that replicate normal and abnormal bodily answers to events, which include asthma attack and therapeutic interventions, such as a drug side effect. Simulated blood can be pumped into the veins through an IV tube. Patient simulators are life-like manikins that react physiologically as they were alive. The stimulators are specifically designed with nursing, respiratory therapy and emergency medical students in mind.Get Patient Simulators Market report sample @The global patient simulators market is segmented on the basis of product, end user and geography. The product segment include, infant simulator, childbirth simulator and adult patient simulator. Based on end user, the patient simulators market is segmented as, academic institutes, hospitals, military organizations, and others.The report aims to provide an overview of global Patient Simulators Market with detailed market segmentation by product, end user and geography. The global Patient Simulators Market is expected to witness high growth during the forecast period. The report provides key statistics on the market status of the leading market players and offers key trends and opportunities in the Patient Simulators Market.Top Key Players:1. CAE Healthcare2. Laerdal Medical3. 3D Systems, Inc.4. U.S. Security Care, Inc.5. Gaumard Scientific6. Kyoto Kagaku Co., Ltd.7. Simulab Corporation8. Simulaids9. Surgical science10. Mentice ABThe "Global Patient Simulators Market Analysis To 2025" is a specialized and in-depth study of the medical device industry with a focus on the global market trend. The report aims to provide an overview of global patient simulators market with detailed market segmentation by product, end user and geography. The global patient simulators market is expected to witness high growth during the forecast period. The report provides key statistics on the market status of the leading market players and offers key trends and opportunities in the patient simulators market.The report provides a detailed overview of the industry including both qualitative and quantitative information. It provides overview and forecast of the global patient simulators market based on product, end user and geography. It also provides market size and forecast till 2025 for overall Patient Simulators market with respect to five major regions, namely; North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC), Middle East and Africa (MEA) and South & Central America. The market by each region is later sub-segmented by respective countries and segments. The report covers analysis and forecast of 13 counties globally along with current trend and opportunities prevailing in the region.Download PDF Boucher:Also, key Patient Simulators Market players influencing the market are profiled in the study along with their SWOT analysis and market strategies. The report also focuses on leading industry players with information such as company profiles, products and services offered, financial information of last 3 years, key development in past five years.What our report offers:- Save and reduce time carrying out entry-level research by identifying the growth, size, leading players and segments in the global Patient Simulators Market- Highlights key business priorities in order to assist companies to realign their business strategies.- The key findings and recommendations highlight crucial progressive industry trends in the Patient Simulators Market, thereby allowing players to develop effective long term strategies.- Develop/modify business expansion plans by using substantial growth offering developed and emerging markets.- Scrutinize in-depth global market trends and outlook coupled with the factors driving the market, as well as those hindering it.- Enhance the decision-making process by understanding the strategies that underpin commercial interest with respect to products, segmentation and industry verticals.Table of Contents:1. INTRODUCTION1.1. SCOPE OF STUDY1.2. THE INSIGHT PARTNERS RESEARCH REPORT GUIDANCE2. KEY TAKEAWAYS3. PATIENT SIMULATORS MARKET LANDSCAPE3.1. MARKET OVERVIEW3.2. MARKET SEGMENTATION3.2.1. Patient Simulators Market - By Product3.2.2. Patient Simulators Market - By End User3.2.3. Patient Simulators Market - By Region3.2.3.1. By Country4. PATIENT SIMULATORS MARKET - KEY INDUSTRY DYNAMICS4.1. KEY MARKET DRIVERS4.2. KEY MARKET RESTRAINTS4.3. KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES4.4. FUTURE TRENDS4.5. IMPACT ANALYSIS5. PATIENT SIMULATORS MARKET - GLOBAL ANALYSIS5.1. GLOBAL PATIENT SIMULATORS MARKET OVERVIEW5.2. GLOBAL PATIENT SIMULATORS MARKET REVENUE FORECASTS AND ANALYSIS (US$ MN)5.3. PERFORMANCE OF KEY PLAYERS5.4. EXPERT OPINIONSBuy the complete report with Comprehensive table of contents @About UsThe Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services.We are committed to providing highest quality research and consulting services to our customers. We help our clients understand key market trends, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions by providing market research solutions at an affordable cost.Contact usThe Insight partners,Phone: +1-646-491-9876Email: sales@theinsightpartners.comGlobal Basalt Fiber Market - TECHNOBASALT, BASALTEX NV, Sudaglass Fiber Technology, Zhejiang GBF Basalt Fiber Co., Ltd (GBF), Kamenny Vek, Shanxi Basalt Fiber Technology Co

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The basalt fiber is a fiber which is made from the extremely fine fiber of basalt and is cheaper from carbon fiber. According to the KD market Insights, the market is going to achieve CAGR of 15.6% during the forecasted period of 6 years i.e. 2018-2023. The market is going to grow in upcoming years because of its demand in several areas like aerospace and automotive industries. They are the ideal solution in applications such as fabric, tapes and others which increases their demand in the market.The Basalt Fiber market research provides an elucidation of its global market and an insight that is the unique reason behind its increasing demand in the market. The report depicts the market trends, challenges, and key industry drivers. This research also provides an estimation of strategies which will help the product to grow in the market.Request for Sample @The Basalt Fiber market during the forecast period of 6 years has enormous growth due to its satisfaction it provides to enhance the market growth. Further, the overview includes the market trends and the growth of this market in the upcoming years.In this report, the basalt fiber market is segmented by end-use industry, type, and product and by geography. On the basis of product, the market is sub-divided into Basalt rebar, basalt roving, basalt fabric, mesh & grid, chopped strands and others. On the basis of the type, it is further divided into continuous basalt fiber, discrete basalt fiber. The end-users are building and construction, automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding, wind energy generation, sports accessories and others.The Basalt Fiber Research covers the analysis of the market in the forecast year of 6 years between 2018-2023 and gives a future forecast of the market.This report covers various regions geographically around the globe such as North America(U.S. & Canada), Europe (Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, France and Rest of Europe), Latin America(Brazil, Argentina, Mexico and Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa(North Africa, GCC, South Africa and Rest of Middle East & Africa), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Indonesia, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand and Rest of Asia Pacific).Check for Discount @It provides the current scenario of the market and the target that basalt fiber market has to achieve in the market. For the examination some standard timelines are taken such as 2017 is considered as Base year, 2018 as an estimated year and 2019- 2023 as a forecasted year. All the factors are considered while providing the data about the market and analyzing the market structure. The segments are further divided into sub-segments for the better examination of the market and to examine every factor correctly in order to achieve appropriate market performance and trend of the market. The major techniques are also been taken into consideration to keep a check on the market concisely. The key market players are TECHNOBASALT, BASALTEX NV, Sudaglass Fiber Technology, Zhejiang GBF Basalt Fiber Co., Ltd (GBF), Kamenny Vek, Shanxi Basalt Fiber Technology Co., Ltd., Jiangsu Tianlong Continuous Basalt Fibre Co.Ltd., Mafic SA, Isomatex SA, Shanxi Basalt Fibre Technology Co., Ltd. and Other Prominent Players.In the final section of the report the analysis of the companys business and the performance about the revenue breakup by segment, key facts, risk analysis, SWOT analysis, financial information, companys overview, business strategy, marketing and distribution and about new product analysis, recent news related to acquisition, development, research, expansion have been considered. Moreover, the long and short-term strategies adopted by the company have been evaluated from time to time for the better overview of the product and the demand of the Basalt fiber is estimated in order to have a better vision for the market to enhance the market growth and to reach the expectation of the consumers.Browse Full Report With TOC@About KD Market InsightsKD Market Insights has come with the idea of helping business by intelligent decision making and thorough understanding of the industry. We offer a comprehensive database of syndicated research, customized reports as well as consulting services to help a business grow in their respective domain. At KD Market Insights, we offer our client a deep market research reports accompanied by business consulting services that can help them to reach on top of the corporate world. Our customized reports are built by keeping all factors of the industry in mind.Contact Us150 State street, 3rd Floor,Albany, New YorkUnited states (12207)Telephone: +1-518-300-1215Email: - sales@kdmarketinsights.comWebsite: -Cluster Computing Global Market 2018 Top Key Players  IBM , PSSC Labs , Silicon Graphics International (SGI) , Intel , Dell and Forecast to 2023

Cluster Computing Market

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Global Cluster Computing MarketWiseGuyRerports.com Presents Global Cluster Computing Market 2018 by Manufacturers, Countries, Type and Application, Forecast to 2023 New Document to its Studies Database. The Report Contain 136 Pages With Detailed Analysis.DescriptionCluster Computing or High Performance computing is defined as an addition of processes for delivering higher and efficient performance as compared to other desktop workstation or computer. It helps the companies to solve problems related to engineering, business, or science. Cluster computing help to solve problems of recurring and complex operations as individual nodes work together and hence can solve problem more efficiently than one computer.Scope of the Report:North America is dominating the market of Cluster Computing due to the presence of the global players in this region as well as high technological advancement. North America is expected to dominate the market throughout the forecast period whereas Asia-Pacific has emerged as fastest growing market and expected to be the second biggest market by the end of forecast period. Currently Europe holds second position in the market but expected to be dominated by Asia-Pacific by the end of forecast period.Get sample Report @The global Cluster Computing market is valued at xx million USD in 2017 and is expected to reach xx million USD by the end of 2023, growing at a CAGR of xx% between 2017 and 2023.The Asia-Pacific will occupy for more market share in following years, especially in China, also fast growing India and Southeast Asia regions.North America, especially The United States, will still play an important role which cannot be ignored. Any changes from United States might affect the development trend of Cluster Computing.Europe also play important roles in global market, with market size of xx million USD in 2017 and will be xx million USD in 2023, with a CAGR of xx%.This report studies the Cluster Computing market status and outlook of Global and major regions, from angles of players, countries, product types and end industries; this report analyzes the top players in global market, and splits the Cluster Computing market by product type and applications/end industries.Market Segment by Companies, this report coversIBMPSSC LabsSilicon Graphics International (SGI)IntelDellHewlett PackardAmazon Web ServicesBright ComputingGoogleMicrosoftAdvanced Micro DevicesCisco SystemsTotalCAECrayCepoint NetworksLenovoPenguin ComputingNor-TechRackMountProMarket Segment by Regions, regional analysis coversNorth America (United States, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa)Market Segment by Type, coversOn-premisesCloud-basedMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided intoLife ScienceIndustrial ManufacturingBankingDefenseGaming IndustryRetailOthersComplete Report Details @Table of Contents -Major Key Points1 Cluster Computing Market Overview1.1 Product Overview and Scope of Cluster Computing1.2 Classification of Cluster Computing by Types1.2.1 Global Cluster Computing Revenue Comparison by Types (2017-2023)1.2.2 Global Cluster Computing Revenue Market Share by Types in 20171.2.3 On-premises1.2.4 Cloud-based1.3 Global Cluster Computing Market by Application1.3.1 Global Cluster Computing Market Size and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2013-2023)1.3.2 Life Science1.3.3 Industrial Manufacturing1.3.4 Banking1.3.5 Defense1.3.6 Gaming Industry1.3.7 Retail1.3.8 Others1.4 Global Cluster Computing Market by Regions1.4.1 Global Cluster Computing Market Size (Million USD) Comparison by Regions (2013-2023)1.4.1 North America (USA, Canada and Mexico) Cluster Computing Status and Prospect (2013-2023)1.4.2 Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy) Cluster Computing Status and Prospect (2013-2023)1.4.3 Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia) Cluster Computing Status and Prospect (2013-2023)1.4.4 South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia) Cluster Computing Status and Prospect (2013-2023)1.4.5 Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa) Cluster Computing Status and Prospect (2013-2023)1.5 Global Market Size of Cluster Computing (2013-2023)2 Manufacturers Profiles2.1 IBM2.1.1 Business Overview2.1.2 Cluster Computing Type and Applications2.1.2.1 Product A2.1.2.2 Product B2.1.3 IBM Cluster Computing Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.2 PSSC Labs2.2.1 Business Overview2.2.2 Cluster Computing Type and Applications2.2.2.1 Product A2.2.2.2 Product B2.2.3 PSSC Labs Cluster Computing Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.3 Silicon Graphics International (SGI)2.3.1 Business Overview2.3.2 Cluster Computing Type and Applications2.3.2.1 Product A2.3.2.2 Product B2.3.3 Silicon Graphics International (SGI) Cluster Computing Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.4 Intel2.4.1 Business Overview2.4.2 Cluster Computing Type and Applications2.4.2.1 Product A2.4.2.2 Product B2.4.3 Intel Cluster Computing Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.5 Dell2.5.1 Business Overview2.5.2 Cluster Computing Type and Applications2.5.2.1 Product A2.5.2.2 Product B2.5.3 Dell Cluster Computing Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.6 Hewlett Packard2.6.1 Business Overview2.6.2 Cluster Computing Type and Applications2.6.2.1 Product A2.6.2.2 Product B2.6.3 Hewlett Packard Cluster Computing Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.7 Amazon Web Services2.7.1 Business Overview2.7.2 Cluster Computing Type and Applications2.7.2.1 Product A2.7.2.2 Product B2.7.3 Amazon Web Services Cluster Computing Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.8 Bright Computing2.8.1 Business Overview2.8.2 Cluster Computing Type and Applications2.8.2.1 Product A2.8.2.2 Product B2.8.3 Bright Computing Cluster Computing Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)..CONTINUEDAbout UsWise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, Industry research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports understand how essential statistical surveying information is for your organization or association. Therefore, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available.NORAH TRENTPartner Relations & Marketing Managersales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)Swiss Climate EcoCare GmbH and Korean Register sign MoU for IMO DCS services

Michael Suhr and Philipp Ahrenkiel are looking forward to the cooperation regarding IMO DCS services to the maritime industry.

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) has been signed between Korean Register (KR) and Swiss Climate EcoCare GmbH to provide enhanced IMO DCS (International Maritime Organization, Data Collection System) services to the maritime industry.The MoU was signed in Hamburg, Germany on 22nd Nov 2018 in presence of Philipp Ahrenkiel, Managing Director at Swiss Climate EcoCare GmbH and Michael Suhr, Technical & Commercial Director at Korean Register, Germany. The MoU was signed with a special focus on mutual cooperation to provide IMO DCS services to the maritime industry.The International Maritime Organization has recently implemented a carbon dioxide emissions regime. This international data collection system known as IMO DCS focusses on the monitoring and reporting of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The new data collection duties required under the IMO DCS will commence on 1 January 2019.KR, an IACS member classification society, has been offering verification and certification services to the maritime industry since 1960. KR is a Recognized Organization for IMO DCS and an accredited third-party verifier for EU MRV (measurement, reporting and verification). As an authorized verifier under IMO DCS, KR assesses SEEMP Part II, verifies emission data based on MARPOL Annex  regulation 22 & 22A, and issues the respective certificates.The Swiss Climate EcoCare GmbH, is an independent EU MRV and IMO DCS verifier with more than 10 years of experience providing verification and certification solutions services to help the maritime industry effectively address environmental challenges. Since 2017, EcoCare GmbH has offered fully digitalized and automated verification services to support ship owners for the collection and transfer of IMO DCS related data, using its web application Cockpit. The MRV Cockpit can be connected via an interface to the Vessel Performance Monitoring System (VPMS) on board to receive the emission data automatically.Philipp Ahrenkiel, Managing Director at Swiss Climate EcoCare GmbH, explains: "Our extensive experience in the field of CO2 management, combined with our comprehensive digital approach, has shown Korean Register that our competencies and capabilities complement each other perfectly. Ship owners will benefit diversely from the pooling of verification and certification expertise in the maritime sector.As from now on under the MoU, by using the Cockpit app to verify IMO DCS related data received from ships, KR will be able to provide a neutral, highly efficient and effective, rapid service. The process will ensure that the verification, validation and certification of the data is conducted independently and impartially.Technical & Commercial Director Michael Suhr from KR Germany added: Korean Register is delighted to work with industry leader Swiss Climate EcoCare GmbH. Our certification services are independent, completely neutral and we work as independent IMO experts, but the Cockpit app offers sophisticated, user-friendly software for data transmission, which will enable us to increase our technical services and expertise for customers across the European market.About Swiss Climate EcoCare GmbHFor more than 10 years, Swiss Climate has been advising companies and organisations worldwide on the development of holistic climate strategies and sustainability concepts. Since 2010, Swiss Climate developed carbon footprints for commercial shipping. Likewise, Swiss Climate has great expertise in maritime shipping. With the implementation of the EU MRV regulation it was the next logical step to become an accredited verifier for greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime sector.PR AgencyPR-echt  Pressearbeit und TextHedda PrechtLutterothstrae 2520255 HamburgTel.: +49 40 40 17 18 16Mobile: +49 172 447 0237E-Mail: Hedda.Precht (at) PR-echt.deCompanySwiss Climate EcoCare GmbHPhilipp AhrenkielSteinhoft 1120459 HamburgTel: +49 40 6094 55220Industrial IOT 2018 Global Market SWOT Analysis and Opportunities To 2023 | Key Players : General Electric, Siemens AG, Cisco Systems, IBM Corporation, Rockwell Automation

Industrial IOT Market

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WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On  Industrial IOT 2018 Global Market SWOT Analysis and Opportunities To 2023 | Key Players : General Electric, Siemens AG, Cisco Systems, IBM Corporation, Rockwell Automation.Description:-The global industrial IoT market has been witnessing a huge growth over the last few years. The factors responsible for the growth of industrial IoT include increasing adoption of cloud computing in the industrial sector, growth in IoT and heavy automation and industrialization. However, security & privacy issues and data management are restraining the market for industrial IoT on a global scale.The global industrial IoT market is expected to reach approximately USD 751.3 billion by 2023, growing at a CAGR of 23.88% from 2017 to 2023.The market is divided into various segments based on component, deployment, connectivity, and end-user.By component the global industrial IoT market is segmented into hardware, software and service. Software is expected to be the fastest growing segment during the forecast period with a CAGR of 25.65%. Software plays a major role in the development of industrial IoT systems. Every component which is integrated or deployed in the organization for various applications needs to relate to an information grid to exchange information. The software deployed at various levels of the information grid does the work of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting the raw data provided by different components of the system. Software is a necessary and irreplaceable element of every industrial IoT system. The hardware segment is expected to have the highest market share by component during the forecast period. Internet of things is a web of software and hardware devices in a connected environment where the exchange of information takes place to achieve the highest level of accuracy. Increasing number of connected devices, increasing capabilities of hardware components, and maximum utilization of available resources are some of the major factors fueling the hardware market segmentGet a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comThe hardware segment is further segmented into sensors and RFID, industrial robotics, smart meters, camera systems, 3D printing, flow and application control devices, distributed control systems, and others. Industrial robotics sub-segment is expected to be the fastest growing segment under hardware during the forecast period with a CAGR of 26.2%. Robots play a crucial role in any manufacturing process. These machines are vital to the manufacturing processes of complex equipment and devices such as semiconductors, automotive, and healthcare equipment. Such processes require high degrees of efficiency with negligible product defects. Sensors and RFID are expected to have the largest market share in the hardware segment during the forecast period. Sensors & RFID are the key constituents of Industrial Internet of Things. Many companies have already started deploying IoT enabled sensors in their organizations. These sensors help to distribute accurate and reliable data which plays major role in automation, monitoring systems, and effective operation.The software segment is further segmented into manufacturing execution system (MES), product lifecycle management (PLM) systems, SCADA systems, distribution management system, retail management software, and others. MES segment holds the largest market share and is expected to grow with a CAGR of 29.08% during the forecast period. Industrialization and integration of connectivity in the manufacturing industry are some of the key drivers for the market.By deployment, the global industrial IoT market is segmented into on-cloud, on-premise, and hybrid. A hybrid subsegment is expected to grow at the fastest rate with a CAGR of 26.26% during the forecast period. Some companies which require an extra level of security or deal with sensitive data, are reluctant to upload data on cloud and prefer on-premise solutions where it can customize the security and other aspects based on consumer requirements. On-cloud segment accounts for the highest market share by deployment during the forecast period. Easy accessibility to the data and information, easy sharing, low cost, and growing application scope are some of the major driving factors supporting the market growth. The rise in implementation of connected devices and the Internet of Things has facilitated cloud computing.By connectivity, the global industrial IoT market is segmented into wired and wireless. Wired segment is expected to have the highest market share by connectivity during the forecast period. The growth of cloud computing and integration of new products and services have affected the demand for wired connectivity systems, but these are still in demand among end-users. The demand for wired connectivity is majorly driven by the need for reliable, fast, and secure connections. Wired connectivity is also important whenever the company deals with large-scale operation centers. Wireless segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period at a CAGR of 26.12%. In the last couple of years, wireless connectivity market has seen a rapid increase in demand. A wide application area and some advantages over wired connectivity including flexibility and portability of connected devices are some of the major factors driving the growth of wireless connectivity.By end-user the global industrial IoT market is segmented into IT & telecommunication, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, oil & gas, energy & power, automotive, and others. Manufacturing segment is expected to have both the highest and the fastest growing market segment by end-user at a CAGR of 27.94% during the forecast period. Growing population has led to an increase demand for products, which in turn has saturated the manufacturing industry. To meet the growing demand, the need of efficient manufacturing system has become mandatory which can only be achieved by integration of latest technologies including the Internet of Things with the manufacturing process.Key PlayersThe key players of industrial IoT market include General Electric Company (US), Siemens AG (Germany), Cisco Systems (US), IBM Corporation (US), Rockwell Automation, Inc. (US), AT &T Inc. (US), Accenture Plc. (Ireland), Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd. (China), Robert Bosch GmbH (Germany), and Intel Corporation (US).Target Audience Software Development companies Application development companies Companies dealing with IoT Sensor Manufacturers Electronic Manufacturing Companies and Suppliers Research Institutions Government Network infrastructure integratorsEnquiry About Report @Table Of Contents  Major Key Points1 Executive Summary2 Market Introduction2.1 Definition2.2 Scope of the Study2.3 Market Structure2.4 List of Assumptions3 Research Methodology3.1 Research Process3.2 Primary Research3.3 Secondary Research3.4 Market Size Estimation3.5 Forecast Model4 Market Dynamics4.1 Introduction4.2 Drivers4.2.1 Rising Adoption of Cloud Computing in the Industrial Sector4.2.2 Growth in IoT4.2.3 Heavy Automation and Industrialization4.3 Restraint4.3.1 Security & Privacy Issues4.3.2 Data Management5 Market Factor Analysis5.1 Supply Chain Analysis5.2 Porters Five Forces Model5.2.1 Threat of New Entrants5.2.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers5.2.3 Bargaining Power of Buyers5.2.4 Threat of Substitutes5.2.5 Intensity of RivalryContinuedBuy 1-user PDF @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Office No.528,Amanora Chambers,Magarpatta Road,Hadapsar,Pune-411028.What Should American Investors Know About FATCA?

Author: Luigi Wewege, Senior Vice President of Caye International Bank

For American investors, offshore banking can seem challenging thanks to the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act, or FATCA. Once you understand FATCA, however, it is clear that the legislation doesnt have to prohibit you from banking or investing around the world.Learn a little more about FATCA so that you will feel confident establishing accounts overseas.What is FATCA?First, it is important to define FATCA. This Act was established by the United States government in 2010. The purpose of FATCA is to increase tax compliance by American citizens, residents, or anyone else responsible for paying taxes within the United States.Under FATCA, foreign financial institutions and certain other non-financial entities are required to report back to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about the accounts and assets of U.S. citizens banking overseas. This is far more of a burden on banks than on individuals, although individuals will have to provide more information to overseas banks as a result.FATCA was established to reduce tax evasion and ensure U.S. citizens paid the appropriate taxes to the IRS on foreign-held assets. Offshore banking can and does reduce the burden of taxation for many account holders. However, these individuals still must comply with any tax laws within their country of residence.Through FATCA, the IRS has an easier time tracking the financial transactions of Americans, allowing them to better determine what taxes are owed to the United States government at the state and federal levels.What Information is Supplied to the IRS Through FATCA?Because of FATCA, foreign financial institutions, known as FFIs, are required to report to the IRS information about financial accounts held by U.S. citizens. All U.S taxpayers should recognize that when they provide information to a foreign bank, some of that information must be reported back to the IRS.Information reported to the IRS includes:NameAddressU.S. Tax Identification Number (TIN)Annual aggregate account balanceGross amount of interest paid on a deposit accountSome American investors are frustrated by how involved the IRS is with international banking. However, there are certainly valid reasons for the IRS, and the U.S. government, to enforce tax compliance for American citizens.What Does FATCA Mean for International Banks?This piece of legislation mainly impacts foreign financial institutions. Each offshore bank has to comply with FATCA, and it can be an expensive and challenging process.In fact, some international banks have opted not to offer services to Americans as a result of FATCA. Since the costs of compliance can be so high, and gathering the relevant data time consuming, many banks have limited services to investors coming from countries other than the United States.Banks, mutual funds, and other investment entities that do work with U.S. citizens and residents need to comply with all FATCA regulations. To start, financial institutions have to determine whether account holders are U.S. citizens, or if they are subject to taxation laws in America. Then, banks contact their American account holders and ask them to submit a W-9 form, which provides information about tax identification numbers. Financial institutions may also have to go to extreme lengths to confirm that anyone opening an account can have their identity and address verified.Of course, financial institutions also have to regularly report to the IRS about the transactions, withdrawals, and balances of American-held accounts. This adds a lot of administrative work, and it can mean that banks need to levy additional fees to account holders. While these fees are typically minimal, they reflect the additional hoops that offshore banks have to jump through in order to meet FATCA regulations.What Does FATCA Mean for American Investors?If youre a U.S. taxpayer with foreign assets, what does FATCA actually mean for you? First, its important to know that you, as well as the FFI, have IRS reporting responsibilities. There are reporting thresholds for those who file U.S tax returns as:SingleMarried, but filing separatelyMarried, filing jointlyThese thresholds also vary according to whether you are a taxpayer living abroad or a taxpayer living in the United States. Some of the IRS forms that are required in addition to the 1040 form include:FinCen Form 114, also referred to as FBAR  filed electronically and separately from your 1040 formForm 8938  must be attached to your 1040 tax filingFailure to file the appropriate forms with the IRS can result in stiff penalties and even criminal charges. You can find more details, including a summary of FATCA reporting, on the IRS website here.Establishing an offshore bank account is relatively easy, but you will be required to submit more information than you do when opening a domestic bank account in the United States. If youre planning to establish a bank account in a destination like Belize, be prepared to submit a bit more information. The additional information required is to simply confirm that you are who you say you are, making it easier for your financial institution to maintain compliance with FATCA and other international banking laws.Theres no denying that FATCA makes international investing and banking a little trickier for U.S. citizens. However, there are far more benefits to offshore banking and investing that offset the additional legwork required by FATCA.Belize is a country that is fully compliant with FATCA. Find out more about legally banking in Belize while being FATCA-compliant from the knowledgeable banking staff at Caye International Bank headquartered on Ambergis Caye island in Belize.Contact Caye today to get answers to your questions about international banking.This article is copyright  2018About Caye International Bank:Caye is the only International Bank headquartered on the beautiful island of Ambergris Caye in Belize, Central America. The bank offers a full range of traditional and non-traditional financial services and accounts in multiple currencies. An application for account opening is a simple process and can be facilitated online from anywhere in the world.About author - Luigi Wewege:Luigi is the Senior Vice President of Caye International Bank, published author of The Digital Banking Revolution, has co-authored economic research which was presented before the U.S. Congress and currently serves as an Instructor at the FinTech School as well as a Speaker at the Silicon Valley Innovation Centre. He holds an Italian MBA with a major in International Business, as well as a BSBA with a triple major in Finance, International Business, and Management - cum laude from the University of Missouri-St. Louis.P.O. Box 105, Coconut DriveSan Pedro Town, Ambergris CayeBelize, Central Americanotify@cayebank.bzArtificial Intelligence as a Service (AIaaS) Market Top Industry Players Alphabet Inc. (Google Inc.), Apple Inc., Amazon Inc., IBM Corporation, CognitiveScale, Inc., Microsoft Corporation

Artificial Intelligence as a Service Market

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Artificial Intelligence as a Service (AIaaS) Market by Technology (Machine Learning, Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing, and Others), Organization Size (Small & Medium Enterprise and Large Enterprise), and Industry Vertical (BFSI, IT & Telecom, Retail, Manufacturing, Public Sector, Energy & Utility, Healthcare, and Others) - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2017-2025The global artificial intelligence as a service market size (AIaaS Market size) is expected to reach $77,047.7 million in 2025, from $2,397.2 million in 2017 growing at a CAGR of 56.7% from 2018 to 2025. AIaaS incorporates a range of services that offer AI tools through cloud computing services. Google, IBM, Intel, Microsoft, and Apple Inc. are some of the leading players of the global AIaaS market.Get Sample Copy of this Report @Increased penetration of cloud-based solutions and growth associated with the artificial intelligence and cognitive computing market are the major factors that boost the growth of the AIaaS market. In addition, growth in IT expenditure in emerging nations and technological advancement for workflow optimization fuel the demand for advanced analytical systems driving the artificial intelligence as a service market. However, limited availability of trained professionals is expected to impede the market growth. Furthermore, increase in application areas and growth of IoT are the factors expected to create lucrative growth opportunities for the artificial intelligence as a service market.The global AIaaS market is segmented by technology, organization size, industry vertical, and region. Based on technology, the market is classified into machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and others. In 2017, the machine learning segment dominated the market, in terms of revenue, and is expected to maintain this trend in the coming years, owing to increase in demand for the artificial intelligence industry solutions. Based on organization size, the market is categorized into small & medium enterprise and large enterprise. By industry vertical, the market is classified into BFSI, retail, telecom & IT, healthcare, manufacturing, public sector, energy & utilities, and others (agriculture, law, media & advertising, educational institutions). The IT & telecom segment is anticipated to dominate the global artificial intelligence as a service market throughout the forecast period. Based on region, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA. In 2017, North America contributed the highest share in the artificial intelligence as a service market and is anticipated to secure the leading position during the forecast period, owing to the presence of key market players and huge investment.Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report at: @Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report covers  Alphabet Inc. (Google Inc.), Apple Inc., Amazon Inc., IBM Corporation, CognitiveScale, Inc., Microsoft Corporation, Intel, Inc., SAP SE, Salesforce, Inc., Fair Isaac CorporationKEY MARKET SEGMENTSBY TECHNOLOGY Machine Learning (ML) Computer Vision Natural Language Processing (NLP) OthersBY ORGANIZATION SIZE Small & Medium Enterprise Large EnterpriseBY INDUSTRY VERTICAL BFSI IT & Telecom Retail Manufacturing Public Sector Energy & Utility Healthcare OthersMore Report At:Market Segment by Table of Contents:Chapter 1: Introduction1.1. Report description1.2. Key benefits for stakeholders1.3. Key market segments1.4. Research methodology1.4.1. Secondary research1.4.2. Primary research1.4.3. Analyst tools & modelsChapter 2: Executive summary2.1. CXO perspectiveChapter 3: MARKET OVERVIEW3.1. Market definition and scope3.2. Key findings3.2.1. Top investment pockets3.2.2. Top winning strategies3.3. Porter's five forces analysis3.4. Key player positioning, 20183.5. Market dynamics3.5.1. Drivers3.5.1.1. Increased market for cloud computing3.5.1.2. Growth associated with artificial intelligence and cognitive computing3.5.2. Restraints3.5.2.1. Dearth of trained professionals3.5.3. Opportunity3.5.3.1. Increased adoption of analytical solutions3.5.3.2. Increased application areasAbout Us:Research Beam is a high end and wide online market for market research reports that contain detailed and rational market research. Research Beam is a one stop report destination that offers clients well drafted and accurately analyzed report with insightful data.Contact Us:5933 NE Win Sivers Drive, #205, Portland,OR 97220 United StatesCall answer Direct: +1-971-202-1575Call answer Toll Free: +1-800-910-6452Email help@bigmarketresearch.comSmart Pills Market by Top Manufacturers  Proteus Digital Health, HQ, Inc., CapsoVision, Inc., Medtronic Plc., Olympus Corporations, IntroMedic Co., Ltd, RF Co., Ltd, JINSHAN Science & Technology, and Koninklijke Philips N.V.

Global Smart Pills Market

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The global smart pills market was valued at $257 million in 2017, and is expected to reach $650 million by 2025, registering a CAGR of 12.1% from 2018 to 2025.A considerable increase in geriatric population, rise in chronic disorders such as cancer, diabetes, and others, and surge in prevalence of lifestyle-related disorders, such as obesity, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastric ulcers, and others majorly drive the growth of the smart pills market. In addition, increased R&D investments in developing smart pills further boost the market growth. However, stringent government regulations regarding the increased use of these devices and high cost associated with the ingestible sensors are the factors anticipated to restrain the growth of the market. Furthermore, rise in technological advances pertaining to smart pills such as bioelectronics, availability of microprocessors, micro-cameras, miniaturization, and others are predicted to offer lucrative opportunities in future.Download PDF Report Sample @Smart pills are capsule-sized ingestible medical devices that consist of micro-sensors, micro-cameras, patches, and trackers. Smart pills by making use of these micro-sensors and cameras help in more appropriate and non-invasive disease diagnostics. Smart pills, being non-invasive can be a potent alternative approach against invasive procedures such as gastrointestinal endoscopy/colonoscopy. The product has its wide application in drug delivery and real-time patient monitoring. It is an innovative approach to gather images from areas of the gastrointestinal tract, such as colon, where traditional endoscopies are unable to reach. Once swallowed, sensors provide information about various health parameters of the patient and the effectiveness of the medication treatment, which facilitate in taking informed healthcare decisions and optimized therapies.Moreover, a significant rise in geriatric population, rise in chronic disorders such as cancer, diabetes, and others, drive the smart pills market growth. In addition, increased R&D investments by manufacturers in developing smart pills boosts the market growth. However, stringent governmental regulations regarding the vigorous use of these devices and high cost associated with the ingestible sensors is anticipated to restrain the market growth. On the contrary, surge in technological advances in bioelectronics, and availability of microprocessors are anticipated to offer lucrative opportunities in the future.The capsule endoscopy segment generated the highest revenue in 2017 and is expected to maintain its dominance throughout the forecast period. This is attributed to the increase in use of capsule endoscopes for diagnosis of gastrointestinal disorders and surge in preferences for non-invasive procedures. In addition, the capsule endoscopy segment is expected to register the highest growth rate during the forecast period.Get Customized Report as Required @North America was the leading revenue contributor to the global market in 2017, owing to the increase in healthcare investments by the government, surge in R&D expenditure for the development of smart pills, and technological advancements regarding diagnostic procedures. Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the highest growth rate throughout the forecast period, due to increase in healthcare facilities, surge in disposable income, and rise in awareness towards non-invasive diagnostic procedures.The report provides an extensive competitive analysis and profiles of the key market players, such as Proteus Digital Health, HQ, Inc., CapsoVision, Inc., Medtronic Plc., Olympus Corporations, IntroMedic Co., Ltd, RF Co., Ltd, JINSHAN Science & Technology, 3 Check Cap, and Koninklijke Philips N.V.The other players in the value chain (not included in the report) include GE Healthcare, NOVARTIS AG, Fujifilm Holdings Corporation, Bio-Images Drug Delivery (BDD) Limited, Quotient Clinical Ltd., Innovative Devices LLC, and PENTAX Medical.Table Of ContentChapter: 1: INTRODUCTION1.1. Report description1.2. Key benefits for stakeholders1.3. Key market segments1.4. Research methodology1.4.1. Secondary research1.4.2. Primary research1.4.3. Analyst tools & modelsChapter: 2: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY2.1. CXO perspectiveChapter: 3: MARKET OVERVIEW3.1. Market definition and scope3.2. Key findings3.2.1. Top investment pockets3.2.2. Top Winning Strategies3.3. Porters five forces analysis3.4. Market share analysis3.5. Market dynamics3.5.1. Drivers3.5.1.1. Rising prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders3.5.1.2. Increase in the R&D investments in developing smart pills by manufacturers3.5.2. Restraints3.5.2.1. Lengthy timelines regarding approval of smart pills3.5.2.2. Higher costs associated with the smart pills3.5.3. Opportunity3.5.3.1. Increase in the technological advancements pertaining to smart pillsAccess Full Summery @About usAllied Market Research, a market research and advisory company of Allied Analytics LLP, provides business insights and market research reports to large as well as small & medium enterprises. The company assists its clients to strategize business policies and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain.Allied Market Research provides one stop solution from the beginning of data collection to investment advice. The analysts at Allied Market Research dig out factors that help clients to understand the significance and impact of market dynamics. The company amplies clients insight on the factors, such as strategies, future estimations, growth or fall forecasting, opportunity analysis, and consumer surveys among others. As follows, the company offers consistent business intelligent support to aid the clients to turn into prominent business firm.ContactDavid Correa5933 NE Win Sivers Drive#205, Portland, OR 97220United StatesToll Free: +1-800-792-5285UK: +44-845-528-1300Hong Kong: +852-301-84916India (Pune): +91-20-66346060Fax: +1855550-5975help@alliedmarketresearch.comWeb:Soya Flour Market Analysis by Manufacturers, Regions, Type and Application to 2025| Eminent Industry Players Catering Across The Global Market Includes  Archer Daniels Midland Company (U.S.),Cargill (U.S.),CHS (U.S.).

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This report studies the global market size of Soy Flour in key regions like North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Central & South America and Middle East & Africa, focuses on the consumption of Soy Flour in these regions.This research report categorizes the global Soy Flour market by players/brands, region, type and application. This report also studies the global market status, competition landscape, market share, growth rate, future trends, market drivers, opportunities and challenges, sales channels, distributors and Porter's Five Forces Analysis.In 2017, the global Soy Flour market size was million US$ and is forecast to million US in 2025, growing at a CAGR of from 2018. The objectives of this study are to define, segment, and project the size of the Soy Flour market based on company, product type, application and key regions.Request Free Sample Report @The Soy Food Products market report is an output of the deep analysis of the global Soy Food Products market. It also covers discussion with numerous key Soy Food Products industry participants making the report rich source of information. The report emphasizes outstanding players in the global Soy Food Products market along with their shares in the market. It also estimates the growth of the key market players during the projected time.The various contributors involved in the value chain of Soy Flour include manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, intermediaries, and customers. The key manufacturers in the Soy Flour includeArcher Daniels Midland Company (U.S.),Cargill (U.S.),CHS (U.S.).Ask & Get Discount of Report @Market Size Split by Type Type I Type IIMarket Size Split by Application Bakery & Confectionery Meat Alternatives Functional Foods Dairy Replacements Infant FoodsInquire more about This Report @Market size split by Region North America Asia-Pacific Europe Central & South America Brazil Rest of Central & South America Middle East & AfricaThe study objectives of this report are: To study and analyze the global Soy Flour market size (value & volume) by company, key regions/countries, products and application, history data from 2013 to 2017, and forecast to 2025. To understand the structure of Soy Flour market by identifying its various subsegments. To share detailed information about the key factors influencing the growth of the market (growth potential, opportunities, drivers, industry-specific challenges and risks). Focuses on the key global Soy Flour manufacturers, to define, describe and analyze the sales volume, value, market share, market competition landscape, SWOT analysis and development plans in next few years. To analyze the Soy Flour with respect to individual growth trends, future prospects, and their contribution to the total market. To project the value and volume of Soy Flour submarkets, with respect to key regions (along with their respective key countries). To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market. To strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their growth strategies.In this study, the years considered to estimate the market size of Soy Flour are as follows: History Year: 2013-2017 Base Year: 2017 Estimated Year: 2018 Forecast Year 2018 to 2025This report includes the estimation of market size for value (million US$) and volume (K MT). Both top-down and bottom-up approaches have been used to estimate and validate the market size of Soy Flour market, to estimate the size of various other dependent submarkets in the overall market. Key players in the market have been identified through secondary research, and their market shares have been determined through primary and secondary research. All percentage shares, splits, and breakdowns have been determined using secondary sources and verified primary sources.For the data information by region, company, type and application, 2017 is considered as the base year. Whenever data information was unavailable for the base year, the prior year has been considered.About Us:Big Market Research has a range of research reports from various publishers across the world. Our database of reports of various market categories and sub-categories would help you find the exact report you may be looking for. We are instrumental in providing quantitative and qualitative insights on your area of interest by bringing reports from various publishers at one place to save your time and money. A lot of organizations across the world are gaining profits and great benefits from information gained through reports sourced by us.Contact:5933 NE Win Sivers Drive,#205, Portland, OR 97220 United Statescall answer Direct:+1-971-202-1575call answer Toll Free:+1-800-910-6452email help@bigmarketresearch.comAerospace & Defense Fluid Conveyance Systems Market Detail Growth Analysis Of GKN Aerospace, Hannifin Corporation, Parker, AIM Aerospace, Eaton Corporation, Arrowhead Products and Encore Group

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Aerospace & Defense Fluid Conveyance Systems Market Report offers an inclusive and decision-making overview, including definitions, classifications and its applications. The Aerospace & Defense Fluid Conveyance Systems Market is anticipated to reflect a positive growth trend in forthcoming years. The essential driving forces behind the growth and popularity of Aerospace & Defense Fluid Conveyance Systems Market is analyzed detailed in this report.Global aerospace & defense fluid conveyance systems Market is anticipated to exceed USD 22 billion over the forecast timeframe. Increasing aircraft production and global commercial plane deliveries will fuel the industry growth. Consistent investment in defense sector particularly in emerging countries has resulted in increase in demand from military aircraft resulting in revenue generation. Up surging air traffic owing to urbanization and affordability has contributed to the superior demand of the aircraft, this in turn, will induce positive impact on aerospace & defense fluid conveyance systems Market till 2024.Request a sample of this premium report at:Major prominent companies include Triumph Group, GKN Aerospace, Hannifin Corporation, Parker, AIM Aerospace, Eaton Corporation, Arrowhead Products and Encore Group. Other key players in aerospace & defense fluid conveyance systems are ITT Corporation, Senior Plc, Unison Industries, Exotic Metal Foaming, Stelia Aerospace. These companies are offering the technological advance product range to comply with other several parts in maintaining better fluid supply in operation.International Air Transport Association has registered more than 3.8 billion air passengers carried by currents airliner across the world. In addition, IATA noted over 7% rise as compared to 2015. Rising disposable income across the world, less expensive flight rates and growing traveling and tourism industry growth fueling aerospace & defense fluid conveyance systems market penetration.Low-cost carriers are gaining strong attention from last few years owing to high fuel efficiency, stringent regulation on carbon emission, rising fuel price are key factors stimulating aerospace & defense fluid conveyance systems demand. Low weight but high strength materials include titanium and nickel are generating strong product deployment from most of OEM companies for better revenue generation during the forecast period.OEMs are expected to hold maximum share generating around USD 14 billion by 2024. This can be credited to mandatory installation of the fluid transmission systems in the aircraft for carrying out critical flight operations. Aftermarket is estimated to witness rapid growth over the forecast timeframe. Regular maintenance and safety checkup of aircraft with the replacement of the parts during the specified time duration will contribute to aerospace & defense fluid conveyance systems industry growth. Expansion in MRO industry particularly in the Asian countries will enhance the product penetration.Airframe application segment is likely to contribute more than 60% of market share by 2024. Increasing aircraft production during forecast time frame will fuel aerospace & defense fluid conveyance systems demand owing to large application in the airframe to provide flawless pneumatic performance.Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report at:Hydraulic fluid system market is expected to contribute over 40% industry share during forecast time owing to the wide application in aircraft components supporting aerospace & defense fluid conveyance systems demand. Large hydraulics application including in brakes, landing gears, flight controls surfaces, and flaps are mainly operated through hydraulics which continuously needs a fluid mechanism to attain the highest reliability supporting demand.Duct components segment is protected to dominate market revenue by generating over USD 7 billion in 2024. This segment will drive industry growth owing to a large application such as fuel tank inerting system, engine bleed air and starter system along with leading aircraft wings edges. Rising demand for improved high-quality ducts are made of titanium and nickel provides high material strength to cater new generation aircraft are instigating aerospace & defense fluid conveyance systems Market.North America aerospace & defense fluid conveyance systems market is anticipated to hold dominance with over 50% market share during forecast time frame owing to major manufacturing companies presence. The strong presence of aircraft manufacturers including Airbus, Boeing and Bombardier Aerospace along with rising demand for a fluid mechanism in next-generation aircraft are boosting industry growth.Complete report for 2018-2024 on Aerospace & Defense Fluid Conveyance Systems market is now available atRelated Report:Global Baby Oral Hygiene Market 2018 by Manufacturers, Regions, Type and Application, Forecast to 2023Global Baby Oral Hygiene Market research report is added by Market Study report by covering all major market aspects. The report also touches the key scenarios like top players, competition, types, applications, regions, recent developments and future market predictions.About Us:Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management.Contact Us:Market Study Report4 North Main Street,Selbyville, Delaware 19975USAPhone: 1-302-273-0910US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150Email:sales@marketstudyreport.comWebsite:Lahore/Istanbul - HF Corporation has released the third edition of its research-based report on residential property sales to foreigners in Turkey. The report, which uses data from the Turkish statistical institute, reveals that foreigners bought 10,948 houses in Turkey during the first quarter of 2020, thereby marking an increase of 14% compared to the same period of the previous year. The report is accessible via the below mentioned link: https://hfcorporation.co/turkey This interesting As Portland mulls thorny transportation questions  like replacing the Interstate Bridge, tolling sections of Interstates 5 and 205 or bringing passenger ferry service to the region  one man is suggesting a perhaps more ambitious project: move the railroad.

Mohamed Badreddine, a 28-year-old Portland native, has approached city leaders and Union Pacific Railroad in hopes of starting a discussion about moving the railroad away from its more than 200-acre waterfront property Albina Yard facility.

Mayor Ted Wheeler signed a letter of support Nov. 18, giving the far-reaching concept, which would open up an enormous swath of valuable riverfront real estate, a first inkling of legitimacy.

As ferry backers ask for the city and the region to study whether water transportation makes sense on the Willamette and Columbia rivers as the region braces to add 500,000 residents in the next 18 years, Badreddine said the railroads waterfront property presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

It makes a lot of sense for them, he said of moving its maintenance facility out of the citys center for the city, for the people, I think this could be a deal that could really work.

Badreddine, who goes by Moe, acknowledges he doesnt have any experience in owning or developing land, but he claims to have tacit support from well-heeled developers who are interested in his idea. Hes registered his Portland Albina Rail Yard Relocation Project with the states business division and met with Mayor Ted Wheeler and railroad officials in recent weeks. He plans to meet with state transportation officials and Metro as well.

Badreddine said the total project would probably cost several billion dollars and take the better part of a decade to complete. Its going to take a lot of studying, he said, but we wont be the same city [in a decade].

He envisions a combination of thousands of units of housing and potentially a commuter rail service or other transportation additions through the area. Badreddine said he doesnt have firm designs, but he said the city needs to take a step toward evaluating the possibility. Going after this is a big one, he said of relocating or burying the railroad, something other cities such as New York have done. Its going to take a long time.

We must champion visionary ideas as Portland transforms into a global city, the mayor wrote in a letter to Badreddine. Wheeler said he supports the vision to bury I-5 through the Central Eastside Industrial District as well, and he described Badreddines proposal as another example of a a long-term vision, while adding the city must plan for the future.

Portlanders didnt foresee current efforts for ferry service, or higher density downtown or the promise of the Gateway District ten or twenty years ago, Wheeler said, yet Portlanders grew those visions through community leaders.

Kristen South, a Union Pacific spokeswoman, confirmed railroad officials had met with Badreddine. Union Pacific is aware of the Albina Yard relocation concept and open to development-related discussions, she said in an e-mail.

Stating the obvious, South said it is difficult to relocate a rail yard, especially in an urban setting, due to many logistical, environmental and financial complexities.

She described the North Portland facility, which sits broadly west of Greeley Avenue and south of Swan Island, as critical to the railroads operations in the Pacific Northwest. The railroad declined to confirm the size of its property. Oregon Railway and Navigation Company, which Union Pacific acquired, began purchasing land at the site in 1881, and Albina Yards distinctive brick smokestack was built in 1887.

South said Union Pacific assembles and sorts trains for departure to destinations nationwide at the Albina Yard.

Union Pacific has 1,073 miles of track in Oregon and 1,511 employees, according to 2017 figures. About 215,732 rail cars started their trips in the state, while 319,512 terminated their travels in Oregon.-- Andrew Theen

atheen@oregonian.com

503-294-4026

@andrewtheenMultnomah County prosecutors charged a Portland area 27-year-old suspected of fatally shooting a man over the summer, authorities said Monday.

Daniel Troy Harwood faces murder charges in the death of Billy Ray Mayfield, 37, who was killed July 1, according to police and court records.

Mayfield died while being driven to a hospital after a shooting in the 12200 block of Southeast Harold Street, police said.

Harwood was booked in the Multnomah County jail Sept. 3 on unrelated charges and has remained in custody, court documents show.

A Multnomah County grand jury last week indicted him on charges of murder with a firearm, unlawful use of a weapon and felon in possession of a firearm. Harwood was arraigned Monday, the Multnomah County District Attorneys Office said.

Court records do not show how Harwood and Mayfield knew one another or detail circumstances of the shooting.

The news website Patch in July reported Mayfield was a father of four who had struggled with addiction.

-- Shane Dixon KavanaughA man robbed a US Bank branch inside a Safeway grocery store Sunday, police said.

Employees told police the man implied he had a gun and demanded money, the Portland Police Bureau said. He left with an undisclosed amount of cash, police said. The man was clean-shaven and wore dark clothing, a dark hat, and sunglasses, according to a description provided by police, and is in his late 20s.

The suspect could be armed with a handgun or something that looks like one, police said. The alleged robbery occurred inside the Safeway at 8145 Southwest Barbur Boulevard.

Police say anyone who sees the suspect should call 911. Police said anyone who has non-emergency information should call Special Agent Phillip Garcia of the FBI at 503-224-4181.

-- Fedor Zarkhin

fzarkhin@oregonian.com

desk: 503-294-7674|cell: 971-373-2905|@fedorzarkhin

Jim Ryan of The Oregonian/OregonLive staff contributed to this reportPortlanders gathered at Director Park Sunday for the 35th annual First Night Menorah Lighting ceremony celebrating the start of Hanukkah.

Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, recalls the victory more than 2,100 years ago of a militarily weak but spiritually strong Jewish people over the mighty forces of a ruthless enemy," said Rabbi Motti Wilhelm with the Chabad Center for Jewish Life. The lighting of the menorah is a symbol and a message of the triumph of freedom over oppression, of spirit over matter, of light over darkness. It is a timely and reassuring message, for the forces of darkness are ever-present.

Hanukkah reminds us that it is our duty to bring light where there is darkness," Wilhelm said. "Warmth where there is cold. Hope where there is despair.

Eva Dye, 4, picks out a light-up menorah headband during the 2018 First Night celebration of Hanukkah at Director Park in Portland. (Samantha Swinder/Staff)

What better symbol of hope than the children, who were front and center for the evening events. Portland childrens author Eric Kimmel read his book, Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins, and musicians performed and danced The Dreidel Song with their young audience.

Children's author Eric Kimmel reads his book, "Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins," to children during the 2018 First Night celebration of Hanukkah Sunday at Director Park in Portland. (Samantha Swindler/Staff)

This years event also included the first ever Hanukkah Chocolate Gelt Drop, with members of Portland Fire & Rescue dropping 1,000 chocolate coins from the top of a raised fire ladder for the children below.

Third grader Reuben Lev read his winning entry in the Oregon Chanukah Essay Contest on the topic of freedom.

Freedom means not just being free in your mind and body but being free in your heart and soul, Lev read. Freedom is children laughing, horses running, the green grass with just a little bit of dew on the blades ... When people are free, God is happy. If people are not free, the earth is not happy.

Fifth grader Yehudis Rivkin, who could not attend the event, also composed a winning essay that was read for for the crowd.

Even if there are chains on your hands and feet, you have the freedom to feel in your heart, think in your brain, and believe freely, she wrote, notions nobody can ever take away from you.

Brenda Price, left, and Carrie Schultz take a selfie during the First Night celebration for the start of Hanukkah Sunday at Director Park in Portland.

The crowd joined in singing blessings before the shamash candle (used to light the other candles) was lit first on Portlands 12-foot grand menorah, followed by the Hanukkah candle furthest to the right.

A new light will be added every night at Director Park until the entire menorah is lit on the eighth day. The menorah will be lit at 5:30 p.m. daily, except during Shabbat: the lighting will take place at 3 p.m. Friday and 6 p.m. Saturday.

In addition to the menorah at Director Park, visitors were invited to write messages of peace for a Peace Menorah, which will be displayed at Portland City Hall during the eight days of Hanukkah.

Watch video from the Menorah Lighting Below:

Portlands Menorah is about to be lit for the First Night celebration at Director Park. Posted by The Oregonian on Sunday, December 2, 2018

-- Samantha Swindler

@editorswindler / 503-294-4031

sswindler@oregonian.comBy LeeAnn Larsen, John Larson and Samantha Steele

For the past three decades, Oregon schools have faced one budget crisis after another. With the release of Gov. Kate Browns recommended 2019-21 budget and investment package, however, our schools are poised to avoid another round of cuts and receive the funding needed to help more students graduate with a high-quality, well-rounded education.

As background, 28 years ago Oregon voters endorsed a drastic change in how we pay for schools: Measure 5 deeply cut property taxes and shifted the bills to the states general fund. The fallout  inadequate and unstable education funding  was unintentional but has never been resolved.

Barbara Roberts, elected to the governors office the same night Measure 5 passed, has called it a tax framework that was unsustainable to take care of schools. It is something that for almost 30 years has sat unsolved.

On Wednesday, Gov. Brown proposed a K-12 budget and investment package that, if enacted, would mark a turning point for our chronically underfunded school system. If the 2019 Legislature can commit to revenue reform and deliver the new money sought by the governor, it would transform educational outcomes for all Oregon students.

Our schools are struggling in well-documented ways: Oregon students have one of the shortest school years nationally, classroom crowding has mounted as schools cut teaching positions to save money, and as a result of decades of underfunding, graduation rates are among the lowest in the country.

By failing to act for 28 years, we have failed our children.

Now, however, we have strong signs of hope on the horizon. Realizing that hope will require hard decisions about reforming our revenue system to pay for public services, including schools.

The governors budget proposal and investment package set a strong foundation for the 2019 Legislatures consideration of what our schools should look like and how we should pay for them. Already, a bipartisan group of legislators has spent much of the last year on a deep dive into these weighty questions, traveling thousands of miles and collecting testimony from across the state.

The Joint Interim Committee on Student Success heard about a variety of challenges facing our schools, including mental-health needs, crowded classrooms and barriers to ensuring that all students graduate. Gov. Browns budget vision addresses several of these areas, but we must aim higher.

We believe that the more than 580,000 students in Oregons public schools deserve the high-quality education described by our own states Quality Education Model. The QEM is a blueprint that Oregon has never paid the bill for. Yet we need look no further than to our northern neighbor of Washington to see that with the right political will a state can fully fund its schools.

At the conclusion of Oregons 2017 legislative session, which began with high hopes for revenue reform and ended in disappointment, House Majority Leader Jennifer Williamson had this to say:

This session, we had not only an opportunity, but a moral obligation to rebuild the broken pieces of our budget and revenue systems, which have been crumbling for more than two decades. Instead, were telling our students, yet again: Not this time.

This time, in 2019, we have built a collective momentum toward telling our students what they deserve to hear.

This time, the Oregon School Boards Association, the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators, and the Oregon Education Association hold a strong and shared hope that our governor and legislative leaders will find a solution that overcomes three decades of inertia to fully fund our schools.

Last weeks budget proposal helps move us one step closer toward that goal. More than 580,000 students in Oregon public schools are standing at the finish line, waiting to applaud our leaders for providing them the means to succeed.

LeeAnn Larsen is president of the Oregon School Boards Association. John Larson is president of the Oregon Education Association. Samantha Steele is president of the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators.A 30-year-old Corvallis doctor surfing near Devils Punchbowl Natural Area died Saturday, Dec. 1, state police said.

The U.S. Coast Guard sent a boat and helicopter to rescue Toren Stearns, Oregon State Police said, and a rescue swimmer brought Stearns to the beach.

A helicopter took Stearns to Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital in Newport around 5 p.m., where he was pronounced dead, police said.

Stearns left his dog on the beach while he surfed, police said. Lincoln County Animal Shelter took care of the dog as officials made contact with Stearnss family.

-- Fedor Zarkhin

fzarkhin@oregonian.com

desk: 503-294-7674|cell: 971-373-2905|@fedorzarkhinEditors note: This is a weekly Q&A focused on the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System. Got a question? Submit it to politics@oregonian.com.

Q: Is there any chance the Legislature will take up new pension reforms in the 2019 session? And if so what would they be?

A: Unclear. The Oregon Business Council has a list of money-saving pension changes it will preview for lawmakers and other participants at Mondays Oregon Leadership Summit. But conventional wisdom is that Democrats blue wave election results on Nov. 6, heavily supported by public employee unions, drowned any chance of pension reform in 2019. Power shifted, and most pre-session talk seems to be about a $2 billion tax increase, without any accompanying pension cost containment.

But the pension math hasnt changed. In fact, its getting worse. Barring a major Santa Claus rally in financial markets, if PERS investments finish the year where they are today  a 1.5 percent overall return  they will fall well short of the systems assumed return of 7.2 percent. That means the systems unfunded liability will grow by another $3.5 to $4 billion, to $26 billion.

That amplifies the fact that a good chunk of any tax increase will inevitably be used to pay down the pension deficit, not to buy anything new. Statewide, public employers pension costs will increase by $1.1 billion in the next biennium, $680 million of which is attributable to state agencies and school districts funded out of the state general fund. Figure another $700 million rate increase for schools and state agencies in the following biennium. Those arent great optics for a tax increase thats supposed to be funding more school days and smaller classes and mitigating college tuition hikes.

Backers of a tax increase know there is always the prospect of a tax increase being referred to voters. And if lawmakers make no changes to the pension system, there lurks the possibility of a ballot measure on PERS that could feature more severe cutbacks than anything the Legislature would enact. The likeliest ballot initiative on the pension system, because its the simplest, would probably be to institute a 401(k) for all public employees moving forward. And a poll of 600 voters this fall by DHM Research showed strong support for that concept.

Suffice to say, PERS is never far from the budget conversation. The problem is simply too big to ignore.

Gov. Kate Browns budget proposal, released Wednesday, would devote an additional $100 million to help schools cover increasing pension costs. School pension costs are slated to jump by $375 million in the coming biennium, so thats far from a solution. Indeed, PERS estimates that $1 billion to $1.5 billion in additional contributions are needed from schools to head off expected pension rate increases in the next two biennia. Brown says shes committed to help identify the remaining funds. But that $1.5 billion estimate is a moving target and assumes that PERS investments continue to deliver their assumed return. Right now, theyre not, which could put additional pressure on schools pension costs regardless of whether those contributions are made.

The business community will offer up at least three proposals for PERS changes at the Oregon Leadership Summit:

1) Employee cost-sharing. Public employees in Oregon make no contribution to their pensions, making the state an outlier. Since 2004, public employees mandatory retirement contribution of 6 percent of pay (most employees have this cost picked up by their employer) has gone to a separate defined contribution account that belongs to the employee and comes on top of their pension. This proposal would have Tier 1 and 2 employees make a pension contribution of 6 percent of pay, which is the national average for state systems where public employees also get Social Security, as in Oregon. Tier 3, or OPSRP, employees, who were hired after August 28, 2003, would be required to make a 3 percent contribution to the pension fund.

2) Give employees the choice of a pension plan or expanded defined contribution plan, but not both. At present, all employees get a defined-benefit pension, as well as a supplemental individual account, funded by employees 6 percent contribution. Under this reform, employees would have the choice of a pension plan (with the employee making a 6 percent contribution) or an expanded individual account, with employers making a 6 percent contribution to match employees 6 percent contribution (which some employers would continue to pick up). OHSU offers this kind of defined contribution plan, with the university making a 12 percent contribution. Advocates say this is more portable than a pension, and a better deal for short-term or low-paid employees.

3) Working retirement payback plan. This is still being developed, but in its basic form, would offer employees 55 years and older the option of retiring now, starting their benefit, and returning to work full time. This would essentially allow double dipping, getting rid of the 1,040-hour limit on post retirement employment per year. Employers, meanwhile, would continue making pension contributions while the retired individual was employed, but the money would be used to pay down the employers unfunded liability rather than covering additional pension accruals. This plan could sunset after a few years, and might mitigate the impact of any rush for the retirement exits if the Legislature takes up PERS reform.

Tim Nesbitt, a consultant to the Oregon Business Council, said the proposals could cut $5 billion to $6 billion of the systems unfunded liability and bring meaningful pension cost relief to schools and other employers. He says that after five years of false starts on the pension system, hes hoping some of the new proposals help lawmakers get unstuck on the issue and overcome some of the cynicism that theres nothing left to be done.

- Ted Sickinger

tsickinger@oregonian.com

503-221-8505; @tedsickingerA 20-year-old man is accused of decking a police officer during a run-in at a Northeast Portland MAX platform Saturday night, authorities say.

Awasioeth Reity Epenrosa was jailed on suspicion of assaulting a public safety officer, among other charges. Police said the officer, who wasnt publicly identified, was treated at a hospital and released.

Police said transit officers initially approached an unruly group at the Lloyd Center MAX platform about 8:20 p.m. and that "the group became aggressive and hostile towards officers.

An officer deployed pepper spray toward an aggressor, police said, and Epenrosa punched an officer in the face and ran away.

He was arrested about a block away, Portland police said in a news release. Epenrosa remains in Multnomah Countys Inverness Jail. Hes set to be arraigned Monday, according to court records.

He has two open criminal cases, records show: a Multnomah County case in which hes accused of misdemeanor theft, and a Washington County case in which hes accused of felony burglary, among other charges.

 Jim RyanEmergency responders were back at Intel's Ronler Acres campus in Hillsboro on Monday, treating employees for mysterious respiratory issues for the second time in less than a week.

Metro West Ambulance said it transported six people to nearby hospitals for what Intel described as "treatment of minor breathing difficulty." Public safety officials described their conditions as "non-critical."

Metro West public information officer Jan Lee said emergency responders examined 35 people altogether, all with "very minor symptoms." Initial reports from Intel said three people went to the hospital -- the company later confirmed Monday's total was six.

Fifteen people from the Intel site went to Washington County hospitals late Thursday afternoon complaining of breathing problems. The workers reported "respiratory irritation" and "minor breathing difficulty," according to Intel.

Intel said its Manufacturing Support Building, a four-story, 429,000-square-foot facility, will remain offline "until further notice." The company said the incident didn't affect other facilities on the campus and a Washington County official said there is no indication of a hazardous material release outside the building.

"Our previous investigation as well as our current, ongoing investigation show no hazardous materials were released," Intel said in a written statement Monday. "However, as a precaution, we have now evacuated all individuals from the affected building."

Intel said it has bolstered its health services personnel at Ronler Acres to accommodate requests for health screening. The company said it evaluated its manufacturing tools for chemical or heat issues and found nothing unusual.

Intel said its heating and ventilation systems also checked out and there is no indication that external air pulled into Ronler Acres' intake systems created the recent issues. Intel said it is using temporary monitoring systems in the manufacturing building and checking them hourly while expanding air filtration on the campus.

In a tweet Monday, the Hillsboro Fire Department said it was treating "multiple patients" with five engines on site -- plus five ambulances and a hazardous materials unit.

HFD response to Intel to treat multiple patients. 5 engines, 5 MWA ambulances, and 1 Hazmat unit on scene working. pic.twitter.com/i1e6jTEtES  Hillsboro Fire Dept (@HillsboroFire) December 3, 2018

All the workers in Thursday's incident were home from the hospital by late Friday.

Intel's Ronler Acres campus is the company's most advanced manufacturing facility, where the company develops each new generation of microprocessor. It's a massive, multibillion-dollar complex of several interconnected factories and support buildings.

Chip production involves many hazardous chemicals and manufacturers across the Portland area have suffered a number of serious incidents in the four decades since semiconductor companies began arriving in the city's suburbs. It's exceedingly rare, though, to have two incidents at the same site so close together.

Intel did not say which building it evacuated or how long it will be closed. Semiconductor manufacturing is a carefully choreographed process, timed to meet demand just as it arises.

There is no indication Intel is facing a significant disruption from the Hillsboro incidents, but the company is already suffering from a shortage of its current generation of 14-nanometer technology.

This article has been updated with additional detail about Monday's incident and comment from Intel.

-- Mike Rogoway | twitter: @rogoway | 503-294-7699Dreams sometimes take time to come true. But when they do, it's a cause for celebration.

On Sunday, Cutler Doud, 7, of Midland, commemorated his wish - a four-day Disney cruise to the Bahamas with his family - courtesy of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

"It's just an opportunity for all of us to have an experience like this. It's not anything we could have afforded to do," stated Carl Doud, Cutler's dad.

Two years ago Cutler, who is autistic and suffers from rod-cone dystrophy, was admitted to C.S. Mott Children's Hospital in Ann Arbor for six weeks due to an intestinal infection. The experience was very harrowing for the Douds, and soon after they applied to Make-A-Wish. Four months later the organization began the process to grant a wish for Cutler, with the help of local Make-A-Wish volunteers, called wish granters.

When he was asked about what he wished for, Cutler originally said he wanted to pet puppies. His parents encouraged him to think on a broader scope, giving him ideas like going to a fair, meeting the cast of Hamilton and visiting Walt Disney World Resort.

"He really liked Mickey Mouse," his mother, Katrina Doud, explained. "We thought he would really enjoy the characters, cause he likes the characters quite a bit. We thought a cruise would be less overwhelming than Disney World."

From there, wish granters worked with the Douds, filling out the required paperwork, making arrangements and interviewing Cutler about his interests.

"Every night, they get presents in their room. It's exactly what they love, but they don't remember telling us earlier," said wish granter Teresa Warren.

Make-A-Wish wish granters will follow the seven Douds throughout their trip, escorting them from place to place and accompanying them on their cruise. The family will traverse in the comfort of a limo to and from the airport, stay in a hotel overnight and receive special privileges aboard the ship, all provided and covered by the foundation.

In addition, Cutler was given the choice of either a send-off party or homecoming celebration at a restaurant of his choice. So the Sunday before their departure, Cutler celebrated at Culver's with his family, friends, wish granters and special individuals who have been with him throughout his journey.

"This is the place where  he always chooses. He loves the food here," Carl said.

The reception offered a chance for the Doud family to reflect on their experience, acknowledge their supporters and look forward to the gift given to them.

"We have a lot of gratitude for the volunteers who have helped arrange this and of course the people who donate to the program to make this possible," Carl stated.

"We're very excited, very thankful," Katrina added.Last week Michael Cohen, as part of a plea deal with Special Counsel Robert Mueller, said hed lied to Congress about negotiations involving the development of Trump Tower Moscow. Those discussions, according to Cohen, went on longer than he led Congress to believe: They ended in June 2016, well after Donald Trump had locked up the Republican nomination.

And thanks to that public revelation, we now have a way to get directly to Trumps role in the conspiracy that doesnt rely on reports citing anonymous government officials or the Steele dossier. This is all evidence that we know.

1. Don Jr.s Trump Tower meeting was in June 2016.

2. It concerned lifting sanctions on Russia, including on Russian banks, in return for dirt on Clinton.

3. Trump needed bank sanctions lifted to do any Trump Tower deal in Moscow.

4. Per Cohen, we know the Trump Tower Moscow negotiations also ended in June 2016the same month as Don Jr.s Trump Tower meeting.

Most importantly, though: 5. Trump, as CEO, who had given negotiations the go-ahead initially, would have had to agree to end those negotiations personally.

Personally.

This timingboth Trump Tower agreements in June 2016; one closing exactly as the other one opensmeans the only fact that we need to know (which its pretty much assured Mueller does know) is when Trump learned about what was discussed, or what would be discussed, in Don Jr.s Trump Tower meeting. (That is, the deal for lifting sanctions.)

To put it simply: This is one concrete instance where Trump shifted his campaign interests and business interests to work on behalf of Russia.

Its worth mentioning here that Trump had tried to do a Trump Tower Moscow deal earlier, after his 2013 Moscow visit during the Miss Universe pageant. The people he tried to do that deal withRussian real estate developers Aras and Emin Agalarovjust so happened to be the same people who set up the June 2016 Trump Tower meeting with Don Jr.

@AgalarovAras I had a great weekend with you and your family. You have done a FANTASTIC job. TRUMP TOWER-MOSCOW is next. EMIN was WOW!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 11, 2013

We also see June 2016 as at least one certain point where the hacking conspiracy and the business conspiracy sync. Also note that both of those plans went through Putin, and both also went through Trumps developer friends.

Now, it was evident from the jump that Trump didnt want to be president. He clearly still doesnt. In fact, Steve Bannon told Michael Wolff for the book Fire and Fury that on election night, he saw Trump morph from a disbelieving Trump and then into a horrified Trump. Wolff added that Melania was in tearsand not of joy. Or simply just watch Trumps reaction for yourself.

But it also seems like Putin didnt care whether Trump won. Sure Putin wanted sanctions lifted, but above all he wanted to to destabilize the U.S. and the Western order (as well as humiliate Hillary Clinton). So even if Trump lost, Putin over the course of 2016 successfully created a massive rift in U.S. politics and government that would have crippled a potential Clinton presidency. (Remember also Trumps threats to call the election rigged if Clinton won.) Though Putin wouldnt have gotten sanctions relief out of a Trump loss, he would have gotten a lot from this investment anyway. And it would have been thanks to Trump.

And Putin did indeed thank Trump before the election was over.

On Election Day, when no one including Trump thought he would win, Russia extended four Trump trademarks, including for hotels. Again: on Election Day.

And just a few days ago, Trump defended his choice to pursue deals in Russia by saying, There was a good chance I wouldnt have won, and so would have missed out on business deals. But Trump has until now always denied he was doing business in Russia. Hes also repeatedly mocked 2016 election polls for anticipating he would lose.

Im certain that theres more evidence of Trumps role in the many other dimensions of the conspiracy, but in light of the recent news from Cohen, this route seems likely the first that the public will see of Trumps personal involvement. Obviously Cohen knows all these answers, and so would Mueller.On Monday, the Overwatch League welcomed the Washington Justice as the latest team to join the ranks for the leagues upcoming second season.

The Washington Justice, the official Overwatch League team of, you guessed it, Washington, D.C, first teased the announcement on Sunday: The team tweeted, Tomorrow, court is in session.

The teams colors and logo, and an announcement video were posted via their Twitter account. Its not a huge surprise that the team is incorporating American patriotism into their themesthe team will don red, white and blue, as you can see below.

Mark Ein, who leads Washington Esports Ventures, said in a statement that the team adopted the theme of justice because it is a universal value and the perfect name for a franchise that we hope will inspire and unite both our Washington area community and fans around the globe.

Ein goes on to add:

There is no region in the world that attracts more people to serve the cause of justice in government, philanthropy, academia, military service and the private sector than Washington. In fact, DCs official city motto is Justitia Omnibus, which translates to Justice for All. As a team representing the broader DMV region, it was important that our team identity reflects a value that unifies all of our community members, representing the full diversity of backgrounds and beliefs.

The Washington Justices logo is a shield that contains red and white stripes, with a blue section that has a white star in the center as a tribute to the American flag. The bottom of the shield forms a subtle W as a way to represent Washington, D.C, particularly the Washington Monument.

Watch the teams announcement video below. The second season of the Overwatch League will begin on Feb. 14, 2019.Several sources are reporting today that Sharp has laid off more than 3,000 foreign workers in Japan as the company moves production of iPhone sensors to a Chinese plant owned by parent Foxconn.

The deep job cuts come as Japan debates whether to bring in more foreign workers amid a national labor shortage, and they illustrate how such employment is often at the mercy of manufacturers' production cycles.

Sharp's Kameyama plant in western Japan won a contract to assemble sensor components for facial recognition features on the iPhone X, which went on sale in November 2017. The Osaka-based company ramped up hiring of foreign workers, many of Japanese descent, that summer before starting production, only to reverse course this year.

a Japanese-Bolivian woman who was one of four foreign workers attending a news conference Monday in Tokyo held by labor groups said that "The layoffs came as a shock."

Apple is thought to have procured the iPhone sensor components from Sharp and South Korea's LG group. But a difficult assembly process led to shipment delays that were partly to blame for shortages when the phone made its debut.



The tension between China and South Korea has been building. The sentiment of the Chinese consumer has turned against Samsung smartphones in favor of local brands sending Samsung's market share crashing to only 1% in the last year. Samsung was the number #1 smartphone in China for several years running.

Samsung still controls the majority of OLED smartphone displays sold to Chinese smartphone vendors and China obviously wants to change this situation so as to give local brands access to Chinese made displays.



Last week it was reported in Korea that "One of the main display manufacturing equipment suppliers of Samsung Display is being investigated by the prosecution for illegally selling the tech giants OLED display technologies to Chinese firms.

The Suwon District Prosecutors Office stated on Nov. 29 that it had indicted 11 executives and employees of Gumi-headquartered Toptec and its paper company based in China for leaking details of the 3D lamination manufacturing equipment, which allows an OLED display to be wrapped around the sides, to Samsungs Chinese rivals, including presumably BOE.

Among the indicted, three of them, including Toptec President Bang In-bok, have been arrested while eight others will be investigated without detention. The two companies allegedly made 15.5 billion won (US$13.80 million) profits from the scheme.

The alleged leakage of the display technology, which is considered one of the nations key industrial assets, hit the Gumi-based equipment firm hard with its stock price nose-diving for two days in a row.

The company denied the allegations in an official statement saying that "We have been working with Samsung Display for the past 26 years and exported its pressing tech for curved displays to China in March this year after notifying the firm."Update: Now AT&T has announced that it will be carrying the phone as well.

We already knew that 2019 was going to be the year that the first 5G phones became available for purchase, but even before the calendar turns, the ball is already starting to roll. Samsung and Verizon announced Monday (followed shortly by AT&T) that they will be partnering to deliver a 5G phone in the first half of 2019, bringing Wi-Fi speeds to mobile networks.

At least in theory. While the first phones able to stamp 5G on their boxes will have bragging rights for sure, the benefit to consumers wont be so great, especially for the first round of handsets. While 5G is most certainly the future and someone has to be first, you might not want to rush out to buy whatever 5G Samsung phone releases next year. Here are five reasons to wait:

The networks are still being built

In October, Verizon launched the worlds first 5G service with a slew of caveats: Its limited to certain areas in just four markets (Indianapolis, Houston, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, California), it only works inside your home, and it doesnt use the newest 5G NR specification. And of course, your phone cant actually connect to it. While Verizon and others have crowed about proof of concept 5G networking for smartphones, the service hasnt rolled out at all yet, so the first 5G phone will still be using LTE. Verizon and AT&T promise that they will both be launching mobile 5G networks next year, but the service will be extremely limited. So those first 5G phones probably wont work in your neighborhood until at least 2020, if not longer.

Battery life could take a major hit

Whenever a new chip or technology is released, the biggest question we have is: How will it affect battery life? And the answer with 5G is, we just dont know. Way back when the first LTE phones arrived, they were battery killers, and it took a couple of revisions until we were able to keep the LTE switch on all the time and still have a phone that lasted most of the day. Theres a good chance the first 5G modems will have the same detrimental effects on battery life, as the technology matures, and chip and phone makers work together to optimize the new speeds. Were finally at a place where most phones can last the whole day without needing a charge, and the first 5G phones could be a major step backward in that department.

Itll likely be controlled by carriers

Even though AT&T will be carrying the phone as well, the fact that Verizon got a window of exclusivity and was the first carrier to make the announcement suggests that the release of this phone will be very much tied and controlled by carriers. And that will probably be the case for a while. The same thing happened when the first LTE phones arrived, and it took a while before we could buy a phone and simply swap out a SIM. Weve been around long enough to know that exclusive carrier phones are never a good thing, with poor pricing, terrible updates, and lackluster support. And if carriers are already jockeying for position with the announcement of the phone, imagine what happens when it actually releases.

Itll probably cost a lot

New technology costs money, and the first 5G phones will certainly command a premium over LTE ones. And not only do we have no idea how much Samsungs first 5G phone will cost, we also dont know how much Verizon will be charging for service, which will surely be priced higher than standard LTE. We already know that Verizon is charging $50 a month for its 5G Home wireless internet service on top of your existing wireless service, so things could get pricey.

The iPhone is sitting the whole year out

The biggest reason to be skeptical of the first 5G phone from Samsung is Apple. Following up on recent rumors, Bloomberg reported this week that the iPhone wont be getting a 5G model until at least 2020, meaning the tech wont get proper mainstream support until then. Because as we all know, its not a thing until Apple does it.Both the people who make PCs and the people who use them have repeatedly shown that they prefer a full-featured version of Windows. Nevertheless, Microsoft appears to be developing a stripped-down Windows for those who have never experienced the real thing.

According to Petri, Microsoft is developing an OS thats currently called Lite (not Windows Lite, just Lite). And it might not actually be Windows. The target? Americas youth, whose introduction to computing in increasingly in the guise of Googles Chromebooks. Similarly, Lite would be limited to running Progressive Web Apps and apps released in the Microsoft Store.

If this sounds familiar, it could be because Microsoft has made at least two previous attempts at stripped-down versions of Windows: Windows RT and the more recent Windows 10 in S Mode, aka Windows 10 S. In both cases, PC makers and consumers passed them over for Windows 8 and Windows 10, respectively.

Isnt it time to give it up?

While I never spent any substantive time with Windows RT, I am a fan of Windows 10 in S Mode. My early tests with the Asus NovaGo showed that Microsofts streamlined OS yielded about 90 additional minutes of battery life in a form factor that already pushed north of 12 hours. And as far as being restricted to Microsofts Edge browser, Ive written positively about its efficiency on modern PCs. It should be considered, finally, a worthy competitor to Googles Chrome.

But from what I can tell, users dont care about any of thatand thats fine. Windows is about choice, and if a user wants to use Google Chrome over Edge, Firefox, or Opera, they have every right. But I can also understand if both Microsoft and its educational customers want an environment they can manage like Windows, without being Windows.

Historically, however, no one seems quite happy with where the line is drawn between the two. Some users can accept that Microsoft wants to limit the number of available apps to those its teams can approve and publishunless it happens to be the one utility they personally depend on. And gamers have long griped about the heavy compromises demanded by the locked-down Microsoft Store apps.

What makes the resistance to Microsofts initiatives so frustrating is that I can understand Microsofts motivations. Kids dont care that much about what operating system they use, though they probably would like to use the same operating system they play Fortnite on. Theres no real reason that they cant use a school operating system, then come home to a home PC.

Is Lite real? We cant know for sure. But remember, Microsofts next-generation Surface Hub 2 will ship in an initial version, then transition to a modular, next-generation experiencea good indication that something like Lite is waiting in the wings.

Specialized versions of an OS for specialized devices may pass muster for those that buy them. But Microsoft has already bet big on Americas appetite for a slimmed-down operating system to replace the Windows that everyone uses. And its already lost twice. Is it worth getting excited about again?Queen announced on its website today that it will appear in the Rhapsody tour with Adam Lambert on lead vocals from July to August in North America.

Tour dates include Wednesday, July 31, in Pittsburgh at PPG Paints Arena and Saturday, Aug. 3 in Philadelphia at Wells Fargo Center.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Dec. 7 at www.livenation.com. Fan club presales will run from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Dec. 6.

The soaring success of Bohemian Rhapsody  the Freddie Mercury/Queen movie that is set to become the biggest grossing music biopic of all time  has proven that the publics love for Queen remains as strong as ever. Longtime fans and recent converts will be thrilled to discover then, that Queen  original band members Brian May and Roger Taylor, teaming up once more with longtime frontman Adam Lambert on lead vocals  will return to North America next year.

The show is designed by Stufish Enertainment Architects. Set designer Ric Lipson said the tour will "once again for them, expand the parameters of what a live music experience can be. This new show promises to be their most spectacular yet, an innovative and interactive celebration of the continued power of Queens music.WASHINGTON (AP)  The Pentagon says that a fourth soldier has died from wounds suffered last week in a roadside bomb blast in eastern Afghanistan.

Sgt. Jason Mitchell McClary died Sunday at the military hospital in Landstuhl, Germany. He was 24 years old and from Export, Westmoreland County, Pa.

Three other service members  including Pennsylvania airman Dylan Elchin, 25  were killed in the explosion last Tuesday near Ghazni, and two others were wounded.

7 Remains of Pa. airman killed in Afghanistan returned to U.S.

It was the deadliest attack against U.S. forces in Afghanistan this year. The Taliban claimed responsibility.

McClary was assigned to 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, based at Fort Carson, Colorado.

By LOLITA C. BALDOR, Associated PressA 9-foot-tall menorah that stood outside of the house of a Jewish fraternity at Penn State was stolen and vandalized before it was returned last week.

As State College police investigated the incident, the menorah was stolen a second time over the weekend, WJAC TV is reporting.

Its kind of crazy that this happened here, Penn State Zeta Beta Tau president Adam Schwartz told WJAC. I mean, you hear it in the news and you never think it would actually happen to you, and it happened.

The menorah was first stolen Thursday, but returned Friday morning with damage to two of the branches and its wiring, according to reports.

It was stolen again Saturday night, but was returned with no further damage, reports indicate.

The incident comes a month after mass shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh.

Due to recent events, thats why we got the menorah... to show strength and unity with the Jewish community, Schwartz told the WJAC. We just want to show that hate wont stop us.

Police are investigating both thefts.

Penn State University released the following statement on Friday:

"We were saddened to learn about a report of vandalism of the menorah at the Zeta Beta Tau (ZBT) fraternity house on Nov. 29. Penn State strongly condemns this act. State College police are looking into the matter.

"This vandalism occurred only a month after the deadliest recorded attack of Jews on United States soil. We share in the feelings of hurt expressed by many members of our community. Today, and every day, we stand united with our Jewish friends, neighbors and colleagues. There is no place for hate in our community. Such actions violate the values to which we must commit ourselves and one another.

We will continue to do all we can to prevent such behavior and work together to promote a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for all members of our Penn State family.

Last year, four students were accused of stealing and damaging a 9-foot menorah from the yard of a professor.

It was replaced with a new, 12-foot-tall menorah outside of Old Main after a GoFundMe campaign raised money for its purchase.A state appeals court has denied an appeal by a Harrisburg man who is serving a life prison sentence for executing his ex-girlfriend with two close-range shotgun blasts.

Lagenza Junious killed 21-year-old Adreanne Evans in December 2012 while their 4-month-old son was nearby in Evans apartment, police said.

Dauphin County Judge Scott A. Evans sentenced Junious to life plus 20-to-40 years behind bars in February 2015 after Junious pleaded guilty to first-degree murder to avoid the death penalty.

On appeal to the state Superior Court, Junious, now 43, claimed he made a mistake in pleading guilty. He insisted he didnt fully grasp what he was doing when he did so because his lawyers were ineffective.

Senior Judge Eugene B. Strassburger III rejected those arguments in the state court opinion denying Junious appeal.

For one thing, Junious lawyers were right not to try to mount a heat of passion defense, even though Junious claimed it should have been explored, Strassburger found.

The facts of the homicide simply dont support that kind of defense, the judgeconcluded, despite Junious that he fired the shotgun in an uncontrollable rage when he saw Adreanne Evans with her new lover.

For one thing, Junious was already carrying the shotgun when he broke into Adreanne Evans next-door apartment in the 900 block of North Sixth Street, the state judge noted. It is clear that it was (Junious), not the victim, who provoked the situation, Strassburger wrote.

Police said that after bursting into the apartment Junious shot Adreanne Evans twice. One of those shots was to her face. Junious also shot and wounded Adreanne Evans new boyfriend, Sterling Brown, investigators said.PHILADELPHIA (AP)  Authorities say a man injured in an explosion inside a Philadelphia apartment has been charged with causing the blast.

The explosion blew out the windows of the first-floor apartment around 11:30 p.m. Saturday and left the 56-year-old man with cuts on his face. He remained hospitalized Sunday, but his name and further details on his injuries have not been released.

Authorities say the explosion occurred because the man mixed gunpowder with dynamite. It's not clear why he was doing that or what charges he might face.

No other injuries were reported in the blast. But roughly 20 other building residents were evacuated for about 90 minutes while a police bomb squad investigated.A recent police chase in Harrisburg that ended shortly before the suspect crashed a stolen car into a tree violated the departments pursuit policy, PennLive has learned.

The driver, later identified as 15-year-old Kobe Santiago, died from his injuries after the Nov. 25 crash at 25th and Brookwood streets. Two other teenage passengers were injured, one critically.

Harrisburgs policy, which has been in place since 2002, allows officers to conduct vehicle pursuits only in cases of suspected forcible felonies, which would include the crimes of homicide, robbery, rape and aggravated assault, but not motor vehicle theft or receiving stolen property.

The Nov. 25 chase started because Kobe was driving a stolen car.

The district attorney is reviewing the pursuit, but criminal charges are unlikely. The states vehicle code allows officers to pursue vehicles for all offenses, including traffic violations. But the officer could face internal discipline for violating Harrisburgs departmental policy.

The restriction for Harrisburg police pursuits was put in place to protect the public from the risks of high-speed chases for non-violent crimes. Many departments have similar restrictions and opt for alternative ways to arrest suspects because of the dangerous and unpredictable nature of vehicle pursuits. Some departments allow chasing for most crimes, but rule out traffic offenses.

Still other departments have policies with few restrictions, allowing individual officers to use their discretion to balance the risks of each chase against the need for an immediate arrest.

High-speed vehicle pursuits are possibly the most dangerous of all ordinary police activities, according to a Department of Justice report. When it comes to high-speed chases, the DOJ said, the balance of risk weighs against a chase for anyone other than a violent felon.

Far more police vehicle chases occur each year than police shootings, the report noted. However, development of legally sound police vehicle pursuit policies lags behind development of deadly force policies involving firearms.

Under Pennsylvania law, police departments are allowed to keep their pursuit policies secret from the public. That makes it hard to determine the soundness of each policy, when agencies violate their own policies or how many police agencies in the area have restrictive versus discretionary policies.

PennLive has confirmed through sources that Harrisburgs policy contains a restriction for forcible felonies only, but PennLive was unable to obtain a copy of the policy. That policy has been under review in recent years because of a wild chase in 2014 that lasted 15 minutes, damaged three vehicles and injured a woman. Four officers were later suspended for two to four days.

The restrictive policy has drawn complaints from officers that it does not allow for any discretion at all in a profession where officers face dozens of variables in quickly-shifting situations. Officers also have a duty to arrest known criminals.

Under the current policy, an officer cant even follow suspected criminals who are obeying traffic signs and driving the speed limit if the offense is not a forcible felony. A draft of a revised policy that includes more discretion is being reviewed by the citys legal department.

Harrisburgs current policy is considered restrictive, and the new policy likely will contain restrictions, but thats in line with national best-practices. The Department of Justice advocated back in 1990 for agencies to spell out what offenses are acceptable for vehicle pursuits and what offenses are not, in order to provide officers clear guidance and training.

Some people, and most police officers, bristle when attention is focused on police actions after a pursuit goes wrong because it was the criminal suspect, after all, who refused to pull over for police.

But the website of national nonprofit launched by people who lost loves ones during police pursuits tackles this notion head-on.

People who flee are self-absorbed, the PursuitSafety.org website says under a section called Facts and Myths. They are not thinking about the safety of others. So, the burden to protect innocent victims, by necessity, falls on the police.

The website notes that three innocent bystanders die every week from pursuit-related crashes. The organization advocates limiting pursuits to violent felony offenders when there is no other way to apprehend them. Pursuing only violent crimes would eliminate nine out of 10 chases, according to the organization, and research shows restrictive policies dont encourage more drivers to flee.

People who flee are going to flee no matter what the policy, the website says.

Pennsylvania State Police define a pursuit as when an officer is actively trying to apprehend a driver who is resisting apprehension by maintaining or increasing speed or ignoring audible and visible signals.

Its unclear why a Harrisburg officer pursued the stolen car Sunday when the policy expressly forbids it, but it is not the first time a Harrisburg officer has violated the policy.

In fact, Harrisburg police reported dozens of pursuits to state police in recent years that dont appear to comply with the departments policy.

According to those pursuit forms, Harrisburg started 48 pursuits between 2013 and 2017, and just 13 were for felonies. Of those 13 felonies, its unclear how many were forcible felonies.

The statistics, obtained by PennLive through a Right-to-Know request, showed that officers launched 21 chases for traffic offenses, eight pursuits for summary offenses, five for DUI and one each for a misdemeanor crime and a stolen vehicle. None of those meet the threshold of the departments policy.

But police noted those statistics could include very short pursuits that were later terminated because they didnt meet the policy. And city officials noted those statistics dont count the number of times a suspect fled and the officer didnt chase.

Of Harrisburgs documented chases, most (16) ended voluntarily, according to the statistics. Thirteen pursuits ended when the officer discontinued the chase and nine when the suspects vehicle became disabled.

Six pursuits ended in crashes and three when the suspects abandoned the vehicles and fled on foot. One pursuit ended in an induced stop, which is where officers use a device or maneuver to stop a fleeing vehicle.

The data submitted to state police could be underreported as the reports are self-submitted and allow for discretion as far as when officers fill out the forms.

According to the state statistics, Harrisburg police reported 12 pursuits in 2017, a much greater number than prior years. There were four reported in 2016, six in 2015 and nine in 2014. But Police Commissioner Thomas Carter said he believes the jump in 2017 reflects an effort he made to encourage more officers to file the required paperwork that likely wasnt getting filed in prior years.

The police department could not say how many pursuits have been logged so far this year in the city. But there have been two that resulted in serious crashes in recent months.

In late September, a Harrisburg officer tried to stop a car for a traffic violation on Whitehall Street and 21st Street. The vehicle drove up onto the sidewalk and fled.

The Harrisburg officer did not chase the car because it would have been out of policy, spokesman Gabriel Olivera said.

Instead, a state trooper who was working in the city at the time pursued the vehicle, which crashed into a tree at 18th and Market streets, critically injuring the driver.

Police thought the driver might die from his injuries, but he survived.

On Nov. 25, an officer responding to a report of a stolen car spotted the vehicle and followed it for several minutes through Bellevue Park as the officer confirmed the vehicle was stolen, according to police. When the driver ran a stop sign at 20th and Kensington streets, the officer turned on lights and sirens and the pursuit began.

The pursuit lasted for several more minutes at mostly slow speeds through the 25 mph-zoned residential streets. But at least two times both vehicles speeds spiked, although police would not provide the top speeds.

A supervisor eventually told the officer to terminate the pursuit at Hatton and Brookwood streets. The stolen car turned on Brookwood and continued for more than 500 feet, where the driver lost control after a dip in the road and crashed into a tree. Firefighters had to cut the car apart to free the teen victims.

Parents of the teens issued a public statement Thursday night that they hoped the tragedy would serve as a wake-up call for young people to listen to their parents. The police department, likewise, is going to use the pursuit as a teachable moment.

Harrisburg has seen a drastic turnover of officers in recent years, resulting in a much-younger force. The officers follow written policies for the most part but mistakes happen, police officials said.

Were going to use this pursuit as a training tool, Carter said. I dont think its appropriate to put peoples lives in danger for lesser offenses. We cant be gambling with lives over crimes that may only result in probation if the person gets convicted. I agree, weve got to do a better job. Were going to be retraining our people.

According to Pennsylvania statistics, five innocent bystanders, one police officer and 83 violators were killed in police pursuits over the past ten years. The statistics also show more than 1,800 people were injured in pursuit-related crashes since 2008.

Pursuits also result in property damage. In Pennsylvania last year, pursuits caused about $103 million in property damage.

In all, there were 1,807 reported chases across the state that resulted in 778 crashes. It was the highest number of police pursuits in Pennsylvania since 2008.

The bulk of police chases in the Commonwealth every year are initiated because of traffic violations.

A USA Today investigation in 2015 found that more than 5,000 bystanders and passengers have been killed in police car chases since 1979.Stephanie Keith/Getty Images(JERUSALEM) -- Israeli Police and the Israeli Securities Authority announced the conclusion of a joint investigation into the conduct of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday, recommending indictments for both Netanyahu and his wife Sara.



Investigators believe there is sufficient evidence to support the indictment of Netanyahu on counts of bribery, breach of trust and fraud. For his wife Sara, they contend bribery, breach of trust, fraud and obstruction of justice.



The final decision to move forward with the indictment or not will be made by Israeli Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit. If he decides there is enough evidence, Mandelblit will hold a hearing with Netanyahu, and could decide to proceed with a court indictment.



The investigation concluded Sunday focused on a period spanning between 2014 and 2017, when Netanyahu held the office of prime minister as well as the office of minister of communications. Israeli Police and Israel Securities Authority allege that as minister of communications, Netanyahu influenced regulators so that Bezeq, an Israeli telecom company owned by his friend Shaul Elovitch, benefitted financially. In exchange for his intervention, Netanyahu allegedly received favorable news coverage on Walla, a popular Israeli news site owned by Bezeq.



Attorney General Mandelblit is also examining evidence produced by two other investigations into Netanyahu, conducted by Israeli Police and concluded in 2018. The first involves allegations that the prime minister received unlawfully expensive gifts from friends while in office. The second involves allegations that he secretly attempted to negotiate a deal with the publisher of one of Israelis daily newspapers in which negative news coverage was reduced in exchange for limiting of the distribution of a rival paper.



Netanyahu issued a statement on Sunday claiming that the police recommendations have no legal standing, and that their publication is not surprising, hinting at the fact that he considers the police investigations have unfairly targeted him.



Netanyahu has claimed in the past that the investigation would produce no results because he had done nothing illegal.



Netanyahu, the second-longest serving Israeli prime minister in the nations history, is expecting to hold office until elections in November 2019, but his political coalition has already been strained by the resignation of former Israeli Minister of Defense Avigdor Lieberman on Nov. 14. Lieberman, the head of the Israel Beitenu right wing nationalist party, resigned in protest after the government reached a cease-fire with Hamas, which he termed a capitulation to terror.



Netanyahu now heads a fragile coalition on only 61 members of the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, out of a total of 120.



There is no legal consideration at this point to force Netanyahu to resign as prime minister, as he is permitted to hold office until convicted in a court of law.



However, given the fragility of his coalition, as well as potential right-wing backlash to whatever Middle East peace plan that Trump presents in the near future, Netanyahu may face elections a few months ahead of schedule.



Copyright  2018, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.(CNN)  The French government is considering "all options" to control protests against rising fuel prices that have turned violent in Paris over the last three weeks, a spokesman said Sunday.

Speaking on France's Europe 1 radio, spokesman Benjamin Griveaux said the government is thinking about steps to prevent "serious outbursts of violence," including introducing a state of emergency.

More than 400 people were arrested and 133 injured in Paris on Saturday in clashes between police and protesters with the "gilets jaune" or "yellow vest" movement, who are protesting rising gas prices and taxes on polluting forms of transport.

An estimated 36,000 people demonstrated in Saturday's protests across the country Saturday, marking the third consecutive week of such demonstrations, according to the French Interior Ministry. About 53,000 participated last week and about 113,000 the week before.

Griveaux said that between 1,000 and 1,500 people joined Saturday's demonstrations "only to fight with the police, to break and loot." He added that those protesters "have nothing to do with the yellow vests."

Footage shared by French police on Saturday showed a few demonstrators striking a police vehicle and smashing its windshield. Other videos captured burning cars and police firing tear gas to disperse protesters.

French Interior Minister Christophe Castaner had mentioned a state of emergency, Griveaux said.

Justice Minister Nicole Belloubet told reporters at a Sunday press conference those involved in Saturday's protests would face "a very firm response from the criminal justice system." Some will be brought up for trial as soon as Monday, according to the minister.

Asked about the possibility of a state of emergency, Belloubet said, "I am not sure we have reached that stage quite yet. I think there are other options."

French President Emmanuel Macron held an emergency meeting with top officials on Sunday just hours after returning from the G20 summit in Argentina. In a statement, Macron paid tribute to law enforcement and rescue teams who "showed unrelenting bravery throughout the day and evening."

Macron also "stressed the importance of judicial follow-up so that none of the acts committed remains unpunished," the statement added.

Tensions rising

Rising fuel prices are largely attributed to a leap in the wholesale price of oil worldwide.

But the protests have evolved into a broader demonstration against Macron, his government, and tensions between the metropolitan elite and rural poor.

Macron has borne the brunt of the demonstrators' anger instead of OPEC for reducing oil production, or the U.S. for imposing tariffs on Iran, which crippled oil exports.

Many protesters are angry with Macron for extending the environmental policies that were first implemented by former President Francois Hollande.

The violent protests and vandalism in Paris have "absolutely nothing to do with the peaceful demonstrations of a legitimate unhappiness or discontent," Macron said on Saturday at a news conference in Buenos Aires, where he was attending the G20 summit.

"No cause justifies that security forces are attacked, shops pillaged, public or private buildings set on fire, pedestrians or journalists threatened or that the Arc de Triomphe is sullied," Macron said.

Those responsible will be identified and taken to court, he added.

Upon his return to Paris on Sunday, Macron immediately visited the capital's Arc de Triomphe  a flashpoint in Saturday's violent protests  to "take stock of the damage" and pay tribute to the tomb of the unknown soldier at its base, CNN affiliate BFMTV reported.

He also met with police officers and firefighters who worked to contain the protests, BFMTV said.

This story was first published on CNN.com "France considers 'all options' to quell violent protests"By Lynn Lawson

Perhaps it was the respectful way in which he asked the waitress at the Holiday Inn restaurant in New Hampshire during the 1988 campaign to prepare his baked potato in the oven not the microwave. Perhaps it was the fervor with which he articulated his love of country in his Republican National Convention speech. Perhaps it was the fact that the first thing he did following his first presidential debate was call his daughter to ensure that the repair to her car being done that day worked out well that defined this nations 41st president as a man of pure decency.

Many words are being printed, spoken, even sung, to describe and honor President George Herbert Walker Bush. Indeed, they describe a man of intelligence and honor; a man of strength and respect; and, a man while driven by values that were basic applied these values to both the globally significant interactions in his life as well as to the small seemingly insignificant interactions which is precisely what defined a life that was the furthest thing from basic.

Because whether he was welcoming heads of state on the South Lawn or speaking with a waitress in New Hampshire, President Bush extended a level of respect and love of his fellow citizen that knew no bounds. He extended this connection with the handwritten, personal notes he wrote.

As if these exceptional traits in a man with the weight of the world on his shoulders was not enough, he also had a tremendous sense of humor perhaps best displayed at the opening of the George W. Bush presidential library. At the point in the program when it was his time to deliver remarks, the audience looked forward to his remarks. What he delivered was 37 second greeting yet upon finishing, with the audience in just the right amount of disbelief, he leaned over to his son and said, was that too long? It was heard on the microphone and the audience roared in laughter. His wit was as wise and engaging as he was.

Above all, he was driven by love of country, always encased in respect and dignity. He called it a kinder and gentler approach. And it came naturally to him.

We can best honor the greatness of this gentleman and thank him by carrying that respect forward, displaying it day in and day out, with both the small and the more substantial interactions we have not just with each other but with each others points of view. There is no doubt that 41 would fully endorse his points of light extending to points of view.

Has the perfect man been described here? Yes, though President Bush was too modest to accept that description. It is, however, quite appropriate to use the title of perfect public servant whose values of respect, service, decency, gentlemanliness offer this nation an ideal and timely legacy.

George Herbert Walker Bush was what we all should be.

Lynn Lawson worked for George H.W. Bush for six years, including as campaign manager of his 1988 presidential campaign in Maine, as associate director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental and Political Affairs and as a regional political director in his 1992 presidential campaign.PITTSBURGH  Cameron Sutton left Pittsburgh twice last week to attend to a hospitalized family member.

It was why he was not in practice on Friday and ultimately did not play against the Los Angeles Chargers.

Obviously any time somethings going on, not just even your family member or anybody thats really closely attached to you its definitely going to be very emotional and obviously a lot of that is out of your control, Sutton said. "So like I said you just got tend to 'em and be with 'em any chance you can and try to find a balance in everything that you do, that its not affected toward you in what you do and just move forward from that.

Sutton said hell continue to check in on his relative and will be back with them when he can.

Leaving the team to handle the personal matter meant having a conversation with Mike Tomlin who, Sutton said, was swiftly supportive of his doing so.

Got the support of everybody in this locker room and obviously everyone upstairs as well and there was no hesitation on their end, Sutton said.

Sutton returned to the city late Saturday and was on the sideline in casual wear for the Steelers' 33-30 loss to the Chargers. He typically features on special teams and as a backup dimebacker."

The second-year defensive back expects to practice and play this week. Pittsburgh visits the Oakland Raiders for a 4:25 p.m. kickoff on Sunday.Downtown Petoskey to 'Light up the Night' with holiday parade

Downtown Petoskey, alongside the help of the Sunrise Rotary, will soon be celebrating the holiday season with its "Light up the North" holiday parade.Jun Wang Wins WSOPC Sydney Opening Event ($83K)

December 02, 2018 Mat Pater

After nearly five hours of play, Jun Wang won the 2018 WSOP International Circuit $500 Opening Event for AUD$112,171 (~$82,558 USD), after coming into the final table as the chip leader, and conquering Malcolm Trayner in a hard-fought heads-up battle.

In total there were 1,444 entries this year, exceeding last years numbers by almost 100. The final nine had a wealth of experience including Zhi Ma and Chad Awerbuch who had both combined for over $700,000 in tournament earnings as well as tournament grinders Chu Ong, Alex Falon and George Mitri.

Its great! This is my first final table, Wang said when he was asked how he felt. His girlfriend was on the rail and had broken out in tears after Wang became victorious. Shes actually won more than me, he laughed.

When asked what was next on the agenda - Well, Ive actually won a ticket to the $5k Challenge event, so Ill probably play that and maybe the main, he added. If the $5k doesn't go to plan, I may play the PLO event instead. Thats my preferred game.

WSOPC Sydney $500 Opening Event Final Table Result

Position Player Prize (AUD) Prize (USD) 1 Jun Wang $112,171 $82,558 2 Malcolm Trayner $69,528 $51,173 3 Zhi Ma $50,950 $37,499 4 Shan Jiang $38,734 $28,508 5 Johnathan Hargrave $29,487 $21,702 6 Chu Ong $22,710 $16,715 7 Alex Falon $17,694 $13,023 8 Chad Awerbuch $13,944 $10,263 9 George Mitri $11,118 $8,183

WSOP Sydney Opening Event Final Day Action

The day started with Zhi Ma committing his whole stack in the very first hand against Malcolm Trayner. He was at risk holding ace-king versus pocket queens and went further behind when Trayner hit a queen on the flop for a set. The board then ran out perfect for Ma as he hit runner-runner straight cards to survive.

Trayner would get his first victim shortly after when he dominated once more with ace-queen against George Mitris ace-jack to send Mitri home in ninth place. This would start a trend that would see three players fall in the first 40-minute level of the day. Chad Awerbuch followed when he found himself in great shape with pocket queens versus Shan Jiangs pocket jacks preflop.

A jack would fall on the turn sending Awerbuch to the rail. Just before the first break, Alex Falon would bluff off with jack-high against Jun Wangs king-high after moving all in on the turn. Wang improved to a flush by the river to eliminate Falon in seventh place.

Falon wouldn't be the only one caught bluffing against Wang, as Chu Ong followed suit next. On a three heart board, Ong moved all on the river only to be snap-called. He flipped over his nine-high only for Wang to table his ace-four of hearts which had flopped the nuts.

Johnathan Hargrave went next when his ace-seven was no match for Zhi Mas ace-queen. A queen on the flop would be enough to see the New Zealand native and Day 1C chip leader sent to the rail and collecting his first ever cash in a live tournament.

Final Four

Following the first break of the day (just two hours in) Trayner would eliminate two players in quick succession holding pocket kings both times to take a commanding lead into heads-up play. First, his pocket kings trumped Shan Jiangs queens and then smashed Zhi Mas pocket fours moments later.

Trayner started heads-up play with a 2.5-1 lead and kept the momentum going for a short while until one bluff saw Wang double up. The two then fought it out for an hour-and-a-half with the chip-lead changing multiple times. On the final hand, Wang opened from the button and was met with an open-shove by Trayner. Wang had Trayner covered, and deliberated over his decision for a minute before calling.

Trayner was at risk holding king-seven and was up against Wangs pocket sevens. No help would come and Trayner would fall agonizingly close to a maiden WSOP circuit victory.

That concludes the Opening Event. The PokerNews team will be back on Wednesday, December 5, as it continues it's coverage with the $5,000 Challenge from The Star here in Sydney.4.4k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard

Bernie Sanders brain trust gathered for a retreat in Vermont over the weekend. In attendance were some of his biggest supporters, including big names from Hollywood, as well as staff and volunteers from his run for the presidency in 2016.

The group discussed the top progressive ideas, but many attendees also spoke openly about a Sanders 2020 White House bid as if it was a foregone conclusion.

This time, he starts off as a front-runner, or one of the front-runners, Sanders 2016 campaign manager John Weaver told The Associated Press. Weaver also pointed out his former bosss proven ability to generate massive amounts of money through small-dollar donations, and his large existing network of staff and volunteers.

Weaver then added: Itll be a much bigger campaign if he runs again, in terms of the size of the operation.

Bernie Sanders is no longer an insurgent underdog. And it is apparent that he has been busy in recent months laying the groundwork to launch a presidential campaign that will be much larger than his first one.

Reportedly the Vermont senators final decision has not yet been made. But in talking to those closest to the 77-year-old democratic socialist it is apparent that his age wont hold him back. He also is not daunted by the large number of other progressive presidential candidates who may join the field in 2020.

His advisers say that he would begin the 2020 Democratic presidential primary season as a frontrunner and also as a political powerhouse. And apparently nothing will stop him from taking a second shot at the presidency.

The weekend group of his celebrity supporters, former campaign staff and progressive policy leaders was full of optimism and enthusiasm. Some of them, however, are still taking a wait and see approach as they assess the prospective 2020 Democratic field. Because there may be several prominent progressive leaders running, the contrast to Sanders will not be as great as it was with the establishment candidate Hillary Clinton in 2016.

There is a whole new crop of progressive Democrats likely to run in 2020, including Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker and California Sen. Kamala Harris.

All three of these senators have strongly embraced Sanders progressive agenda, such as Medicare for All and a $15 minimum wage.

Hollywood actor Danny Glover would not yet commit to a second Sanders candidacy when asked, even though he had campaigned alongside Sanders in 2016.

I dont know what 2020 looks like right now, Glover said. Im going to support who I feel to be the most progressive choice.

Another prominent Sanders supporter, Cornel West, said the Vermont senator is the most consistently progressive one out there. He said that some would-be 2020 candidates have spoken about supporting Sanders ideas, but have not given up their ties to Wall Street and militarism.

Sanders wife Jane OMeara Sanders said although many Democrats are now embracing Sanders bold progressive ideas on health care and the economy, they need to go further on other important issues such as climate change, affordable housing and student debt.

She also said her husband has not yet made definite plans to run again in 2020. Then she added that one big question would guide their decision: Who can beat Donald Trump?

That has to be the primary goal. To win. We think you win by a very strong progressive commitment, she told AP. When asked if Sanders could win in 2020, she said every single poll showed that Sanders would have beaten Donald Trump two years ago.

2016 campaign manager Weaver also said that the senator would step aside if he believes another candidate has a better shot at denying Trump a second term. But he also said that Sanders and those closest to him do not have that belief.

OMeara Sanders made clear that the demands of a presidential campaign dont bother her.

It was extremely inspiring meeting all the people all over the country, she said of the 2016 campaign. And what might be difficult for me is not as important as what might be difficult for them and whether or not we can help them with those difficulties.

Its not about us, OMeara Sanders concluded. Its about whats right for the country.678 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard

Republican consultant Mattie Duppler says that Rep. Beto ORourke (D-Texas) has a significant advantage over other possible Democratic 2020 candidates for president.

After losing his Texas Senate race to Ted Cruz it is not certain that ORourke will even be running for the Democratic nomination in 2020.

But because the charismatic Texan wont have another job, his schedule will be clear if he does decide to take a shot at the presidency, and this could really help him.

On this point Duppler said:

Beto has a significant advantage in the sense that he will no longer be an elected politician. But Bernie Sanders and the rest of the bench, all of these senators running for president in 2020, they actually have to take hard votes, they have to keep the government open, they have to fund priorities that may not be in line with the progressive platform.

Duppler also pointed out that ORourke might be a very strong alternative to other potential progressive candidates such as Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Kamala Harris or Cory Booker.

Republicans, we always had this issue with each person running for president want to be more conservative than the other conservative  Beto will be the most progressive guy out there because he wont have to take any votes in the Senate that Sanders, Warren, Booker and Harris may have to take, she said.

ORourke ran an amazing campaign in the biggest red state, and in doing so he grabbed the national spotlight. He received unprecedented amounts of media attention while also raising record amounts of money. Both of these things are prerequisites for becoming president.

He came within 2.7 percentage points of unseating an incumbent Republican in a state that hasnt elected a Democrat in a statewide office in more than two decades.

And now he has people coming out of the woodwork asking him to run for president  and he is seriously thinking about it.

The ruggedly good looking young congressman from El Paso showed an impressive ability to rally the states Democratic base in a way that has never been done before.

The way he inspired crowds and drew thousands of supporters to his campaign has been bringing comparisons to former President Barack Obama.

That ability to make people feel invested in his campaign and his story does remind me of Obama 08, said Obamas former speechwriter David Litt. In 2020 ORourke will be just one year older than Obama was when he ran in 2008.

Duppler said she is not surprised that Democrats are excited about ORourkes potential presidential bid. She said that she believes he would offer a fresh face to the Democratic ticket, which would be a stark contrast to other veterans such as Sanders, Warren, and Joe Biden. Some polls have shown that many Democratic primary voters want new faces in 2020.

I think Beto has all of those characteristics of Barack Obama where hes young, enthusiastic, a new shot in the arm, especially when youre looking at people like Bernie Sanders, Duppler said.

Many people, however, are saying that there is one key difference between Obama and ORourke: Obama won his Senate race before winning the Democratic nomination in 2008, while ORourke lost.

But we should remember that in 1858 a candidate for the Senate also lost, and then became president two years later, winning a close 1860 election. Maybe Beto ORourke should not be compared to Barack Obama but instead to this other man, who went on to become one of Americas greatest presidents: Abraham Lincoln.By Belinda Goldsmith

LONDON (Thomson Reuters Foundation)  Former U.S. first lady Michelle Obama urged a group of London schoolgirls on Monday to ensure they played a role in tackling the bitterness and nastiness in current politics  by never wasting their vote.

Obama, 54, received a rock-star welcome from students from two central London girls schools, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds, before encouraging them to find their passion, mentors, and work hard to overcome any self-doubt.

It was a return trip for Obama  who is in London to promote her memoir Becoming  as she first visited the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in 2009 and has kept close ties with the school and nearby Mulberry School ever since.

While not mentioning President Donald Trump who replaced husband Barack Obama after eight years in the White House in 2017, she said it was important to give young people a reason to hope, particularly in the current divisive political climate.

It is our responsibility to have hope, and act with hope and lead with hope, Obama told 300 teenage students.

The one challenge we have  at least I know in our country  is harnessing the power we do have and not relinquishing that and by that I mean voting.

She said at the last presidential election in the United States many young people, Hispanic, and African American people did not vote  the same people who felt the most oppressed.

Voting is how change happens in democracies, Obama said.

NEVER FORGIVE

Asked often about her political ambitions, Obama makes it clear in her book she has no intention of going down that route.

I have no intention of running for office, ever, she wrote. I have never been a fan of politics and my experience over the past 10 years has done nothing to change that.

Obama said her visit to the London school in 2009 inspired her to use her time in the White House to campaign for education for all girls as well as work to combat childhood obesity.

A World Bank report this year said more than 130 million girls remain out of school despite the fact that women who have completed secondary education are more likely to work and earn on average nearly twice as much as those with no schooling.

Obama, a graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Law School, said girls had to find ways to overcome self-doubt.

Earlier this year, Obama was named the worlds second-most admired woman, behind Angelina Jolie, in a YouGov poll, but she said she still sometimes questioned if she is good enough.

How I overcame that? Hard work, said Obama, who has two daughters, aged 20 and 17.

(But) I still feel at some level I have something to prove because of the colour of my skin, the shape of my body.

Obama will speak on Monday evening at the Southbank Centres Royal Festival Hall about her memoir released last month.

Tickets to the event were hotly sought with many on social media saying there were more than 40,000 people in the line when booking opened and the venue intervened when tickets appeared on online marketplace Viagogo for thousands of pounds.

While Obama has not criticised Trump directly at events to promote her memoir, she does criticise him in the book.

Trump with his loud and reckless innuendos about her husbands birth certificate put my familys safety at risk.

And for this, Id never forgive him, she wrote.

(Reporting by Belinda Goldsmith @BeeGoldsmith; Editing by Jason Fields. Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, womens and LGBT+ rights, human trafficking, property rights, and climate change. Visit http://news.trust.org)264 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard

Newly elected U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York said Sunday that death panels currently exist in the United States. She said that the operation of the private health insurance market in effect condemns millions of people to sickness and death.

This happens if sick people dont have the money to pay for care, and if for-profit insurance companies decide not to pay for life-saving treatments.

The term death panels was used almost a decade ago by 2008 vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin.

Ocasio-Cortez made her comments about death panels in response to Jim Hanson, the president of the right-wing think tank Security Studies Group. She and Hanson exchanged Twitter posts about government intervention in the health care market, and what role government should play in providing healthcare to Americans.

Actually, we have for-profit death panels now: they are companies + boards saying youre on your own bc they wont cover a critical procedure or medicine.



Maybe if the GOP stopped hiding behind this socialist rock they love to throw, theyd actually engage on-issue for once.

Actually, we have for-profit death panels now: they are companies + boards saying youre on your own bc they wont cover a critical procedure or medicine. Maybe if the GOP stopped hiding behind this socialist rock they love to throw, theyd actually engage on-issue for once. https://t.co/4P2TrflkFX  Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@Ocasio2018) December 2, 2018

Hanson immediately responded by tweeting:

Nice try, But commercial insurance gives people choices about what coverages they want & decide to pay for. Your single payer nightmare will replace that with a one size fits none choice decided by faceless bureaucrats. Coverage for all, Treatment for few.

Nice try

But commercial insurance gives people choices about what coverages they want & decide to pay for Your single payer nightmare will replace that with a one size fits none "choice" decided by faceless bureaucrats Coverage for all

Treatment for few  Jim Hanson (@Uncle_Jimbo) December 2, 2018

Ask the Brits how they love the #NHS, he wrote in a second reply. Youre all playing the Other Peoples $$$ will pay for it game.

Free Healthcare aint free.

Ocasio-Cortez, who, like Bernie Sanders is a self-described democratic socialist, supports Medicare for All, a system that would extend government Medicare coverage to every American.

There is now a Medicare for All caucus in the House, led by Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington, who also leads the House Progressive Caucus. They are pressing presumed future Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi to bring the Medicare for All legislation (H.R. 676) to the floor of the House for a vote next year.

Ocasio-Cortez is in touch with the complaints of average Americans about their healthcare plans. She said on Twitter on Sunday:

People dont want overly complicated choice between pricey, low-quality plans. We want an affordable solution that covers our needs, like the rest of the modern world.



Medicare for All:

 Single-payer system

 Covers physical, mental, & dental care

 0 due *at point of service*

People dont want overly complicated choice between pricey, low-quality plans. We want an affordable solution that covers our needs, like the rest of the modern world. Medicare for All:

 Single-payer system

 Covers physical, mental, & dental care

 0 due *at point of service*  Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@Ocasio2018) December 2, 2018

Death panels was a term used by Republicans in 2009 to describe governmental panels that ration care. Palin and others in her party used the term to negatively (and incorrectly) describe provisions of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare).

Conservatives also use the term to lie about imagined negative results from government-run healthcare systems in other countries such as Canada.

What Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is doing is continuing the fight begun in 2016 by Bernie Sanders to provide truly affordable healthcare to all Americans. She is valiantly using her new position of prominence in the national spotlight to further the progressive agenda. She is engaging conservatives in discussions about the issues, and thus performing an invaluable service for the country.

It is only by speaking out and holding a national dialogue on issues such as healthcare that we will move forward as a nation. The message is clear: People want the programs that progressives are promoting, and they want them now.150 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi has promised that the House of Representatives will pass legislation next year that will put Dreamers  young undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children  on a pathway to citizenship.

Pelosi is attempting to secure her position as Speaker of the House when her party retakes control of the House in January. Members of the Democratic Caucus have asked her to hold votes in the House to codify protections for the Dreamers who have been the recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. They also want legislation passed in January to help immigrants with Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

Pelosi issued a statement over the weekend, as a response to a letter sent last week by the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.

In the statement she wrote:

America draws strength from our long, proud heritage as a nation of immigrants. In the Majority, Democrats will work to reverse the Republicans destructive anti-immigrant agenda. Our House Democratic Majority will once again pass the Dream Act to end the uncertainty and fear inflicted on patriotic young men and women across the country.

We will protect TPS recipients and those fleeing unimaginable violence.

Rep. Adriano Espaillat, of New York, one of the members of Congress who signed the letter to Pelosi, said that Democrats should move ahead expeditiously in January to pass bills that shield Dreamers and TPS holders from deportation. She added that Democrats should pass these laws without providing any funding for a wall on the southern border. Donald Trump and other Republicans have said wall funding must be included in any bipartisan immigration proposal or to extend DACA protection.

I think the Dream Act should be taken on alone, with no poison pills attached to it, Espaillat said, expressing the views of many other Democrats in the House. She also said that Democrats should pass the immigration bills within the first 100 days of the next session.

These young people are still in limbo, Espaillat said. Had it not been for the courts, they would probably be underground, they would be in the shadows.

Donald Trump has tried to dismantle the DACA program which has helped over 800,000 undocumented immigrants. He has lost court cases, however, and thus he has not been successful in killing the program.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) this year announced that they plan to terminate the TPS programs for El Salvador, Honduras, Sudan and Haiti, but a federal judge blocked that decision in October. The government has appealed the TPS court ruling and urged the Supreme Court to hear the DACA case.

In her statement, Pelosi also said that committees in the House will fully investigate Trumps practice of forcibly separating migrant children from parents who enter the U.S. without proper documentation and are arrested and incarcerated under last springs zero tolerance policy.

We will hold the Trump Administration accountable for their inhuman policy of separating families, and the trauma and anguish they have inflicted on vulnerable children and families at our border, Pelosi said.

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus also told Pelosi that they want passing comprehensive immigration reform to be a priority when Democrats take control of the House. The Latino lawmakers said that they want new provisions to allow deported U.S. military veterans to come back to the country, end the militarization of the southern border, reunify still-separated migrant families and provide a pathway to citizenship for the approximately 11 million undocumented immigrants residing in the U.S.

These hardworking, taxpaying undocumented workers have enriched our country, while contributing their knowledge, traditions, and intellect to the fabric of our culture. They are part of Americas economic engine, the leaders of the Hispanic Caucus wrote in their letter.

Nancy Pelosis statement on immigration policies is an extremely important document. It shows everyone in the country that Democrats will waste no time in passing important legislation when they take House control next year.

Republicans have said that all Democrats want to do is attack Donald Trump, but this is not true. They will be passing bills that are important to the American people. Pelosi has already said she plans to have the House vote on anti-corruption legislation, and pro-democracy, healthcare and infrastructure bills in addition to immigration.

The American people sent Democrats to Washington to take control and get things done, and they are already starting to do that.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.Jerrel Floyd is an Alabama raised reporter who covers Summerville and Dorchester County for The Post and Courier.The city of Charleston has identified this spot between the Gaillard Center and George Street as a suitable site for reinterring the remains of 36 people found during work there in 2013. College of Charleston students have worked on what a memorial there might look like. Robert Behre/StaffMichael Cohen walks out of federal court, Thursday, Nov. 29, 2018, in New York, after pleading guilty to lying to Congress about work he did on an aborted project to build a Trump Tower in Russia., Cohen told the judge he lied about the timing of the negotiations and other details to be consistent with Trump's "political message."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.The Post and Courier provides a forum for our readers to share their opinions, and to hold up a mirror to our community. Publication does not imply endorsement by the newspaper; the editorial staff attempts to select a representative sample of letters because we believe its important to let our readers see the range of opinions their neighbors submit for publication.The Lyra Baroque Orchestra and Bach Society of Minnesota will join forces to present four sections of Johann Sebastian Bachs Christmas Oratorio at 7:30 p.m. Friday at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 2830 18th Ave. NW.

The orchestras will perform Cantatas I, II, IV and VI of Bachs Weihnachts-Oratorium (Christmas Oratorio), completing the cycle they began last year. Bach wrote the six-part Christmas Oratorio for Christmas 1734, and intended that each of the six parts be performed on a particular day of the Christmas season. The piece made its debut from Dec. 25, 1734 through Jan. 6, 1735, at St. Nicholas Church in Leipzig.

Part I tells the story of the birth of Jesus, and was written for Christmas Day. Part II, with the angels telling shepherds about the birth, was written for Dec. 26. Part IV was written for New Years Day, and Part VI, written for the Epiphany, tells of the arrival of the Magi.

Performing with the Lyra and Bach orchestras will be soprano Sarah Brailey, mezzo-soprano Clara Osowski, tenor Nicholas Chalmers and baritone Jonathan Ten Brink.

A pre-concert talk starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and MPR members, $5 for students, available at the door or online at lyrabaroque.org.A radical new method of producing drug molecules, which uses downloadable blueprints to easily and reliably synthesise organic chemicals via a programmable chemputer, could be set to democratise the pharmaceutical industry, scientists say.

In a new paper published online in the journal Science, researchers from the University of Glasgow present for the first time how synthesis of important drug molecules can be achieved in an affordable and modular chemical-robot system they call a chemputer.

While recent advances in chemical production have allowed some chemical compounds to be produced at laboratory scale via automated systems, the chemputer is underpinned by a new universal and interoperable standard for writing and sharing chemical recipes, developed by the University of Glasgow team. The key was to develop a general abstraction for chemistry that can be made universal, practical, and driven by a computer program.

Those chemical recipes, run on a computer program the team calls the chempiler, instruct the chemputer how to produce molecules on-demand, more affordably and safely than ever possible before.

The researchers claim the ability to use a universal code will allow chemists all round the world to convert their recipe into digital code, allowing others to share and download recipes similar in a similar way to music is today on iTunes or Spotify.

The chemputing approach was designed and developed by Professor Lee Cronin, the University of Glasgows Regius Chair of Chemistry. Professor Cronin said: This approach is a key step in the digitisation of chemistry, and will allow the universal assembly of complex molecules on demand, democratising the ability to discover and make new molecules using a simple software app and a modular chemputer.

Making recipes for drugs available online, and synthesisable via a compact chemputer system, could allow medical professionals in remote parts of the world to create life-saving drugs as and when they are required, for example, or researchers to easily share newly-developed drug molecules for innovative treatments. The potential applications are enormous, and were very excited to be leading on this revolutionary new approach to organic chemistry.

In the paper, the team of researchers from the Universitys School of Chemistry demonstrate the potential of the system by producing three different pharmaceuticals in one robot system, simply by changing the software and input chemicals. They created the sleeping drug Nytol, seizure medication Rufinamide, and erectile dysfunction treatment Viagra in yields comparable to those achieved in traditional human-controlled synthesis.

The desktop-sized chemputer itself draws raw chemical materials in liquid form into and out of a series of modules capable of performing the operations necessary to complete a synthetic sequence.



The modules developed for the system consist of a reaction module, a jacketed filtration set-up capable of being heated or cooled, an automated liquid-liquid separation module and a solvent evaporation module.When Guam Army National Guard Sgt. Jerome Carriaga saw an injured driver involved in a serious car crash on Route 8 in Barrigada on Feb. 21, his instincts to help kicked in. He immediately pulled over and rendered first aid.

Carriaga also used his personal vehicle to redirect traffic until Guam Fire Department Advanced Life Support units arrived on the scene.

His heroic efforts didnt go unnoticed.

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On Monday, during a surprise ceremony at the Guam National Guard Readiness Center in Barrigada, Maj. Gen. Roderick Leon Guerrero, the adjutant general of the Guam National Guard, presented the soldier with the Guam Cross of Valor. The award is given to a deserving soldier for bravery and heroism.

Leon Guerrero said this is the first time in 20 years that this award has been presented in the Guard.

"His bravery under total duress reflects great credit upon himself, the 94th Civil Support Team, and the United States Army," Leon Guerrero stated.

Carriaga was the first to arrive at the scene to assist after a dump truck struck a vehicle, which left major damage to the vehicle. He used his vehicle to redirect traffic to allow him to assist the female in the vehicle who was initially unconscious.

The Guam Fire Department, in an incident report, noted that Carriaga's responsiveness in the emergency situation assisted in the patient's stable condition. "There are very few citizens that help strangers in desperate need of assistance, especially if it appears that they may be putting themselves in possible danger," wrote GFD Lt. R.Q. Siongco.

I work with heroes every day, Carriaga stated. Its an honor to receive this. On that day whatever happened, we do things not thinking about recognition, I didnt expect any of this.

The soldier said he was thinking about his family when he rendered aid and said he tries to be the person my dogs think I am Im very honored and grateful for this.

Carriaga joined the Guard in February 2009 as an infantryman. He deployed with Task Force Guam in 2013 to Afghanistan.

He was selected to join the 94th Civil Support Team-Weapons of Mass Destruction Unit in February 2015 as a survey team member.Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero's administration is pursuing a plan  which has been talked about in the government of Guam for years  to somehow prov Read moreLast week, after the second consecutive weekend of mass protests throughout France, I offered ten observations about these protests. This weekend saw more protest, with a significant and troubling turn towards violence.

As one of my sources in Paris puts it:

The first two weekends were marked by some conflict between the police and smallish groups of hoodlums who integrated themselves into the demonstrations, but were fairly classic for France. Yesterday was different. The demonstrations in central Paris were by far the most violent in a generation. While many demonstrations in Paris see a certain amount of vandalism, yesterday the city witnessed something entirely different. The tourist/commercial center of city was targeted, quite intentionally, by quasi-organized and very numerous groups of rioters. (The French term is casseurs, literally breakers, but I think that hoodlum comes closer.) Police estimate the number of these hoodlums in the low thousands  3000 is a number Ive heard several times. Many came into the city from the suburbs; they began fights with the police and massive vandalism in the mid-morning, and were finally more-or-less suppressed around 10:30 last night.

Paris police said 133 people were injured, including 23 police officers, as crowds trashed the streets of the city. The rioting did not occur in impoverished outskirts, but rather in the heart of the city. My correspondent says his sister-in-law was trapped in her apartment all day, and that his wife couldnt go shopping for his daughters baptism next weekend, due to crowds of drunken, violent masked men roaming the streets where you would normally buy cute little candies.

Among the questions that arise from these riots are these: (1) Who was doing the rioting and (2) Could the government have done more to prevent or contain the riots.

As to the first question, last week I said of the limited violence that had occurred:

[T]he yellow vests, as the main body of protesters is known, do not appear to have been responsible for the violence that broke out this weekend. This was the work of others. Which others? The government tried to blame the violence on right-wing supporters of Marine Le Pen. However, reports Ive heard suggest that the culprits were les casseurs  the breakers  anarchistic thugs who like to smash things and have no connection to Le Pens party. Perhaps both elements were involved.

This week, with so many more people rioting, its possible that some of the yellow vests (Les Gilets Jaunes) participated. Indeed, video shows some rioters wearing yellow vests, though its possible that thugs not associated with the movement chose to don them.

My correspondent describes the rioters as a more-or-less equal mix of extreme-left and extreme-right participants, along with plenty of apolitical opportunists. This seems to be the consensus.

The extent, if any, to which the Gilets Jaunes rioted has political implications. Going into the weekend, public opinion surveys indicated that the protesters were supported by around 80 percent of the public. After the riots, that number is likely to decline. If people believe that yellow vests participated in rioting to an appreciable degree, the decline may be steep.

The second question is whether the government could have done more to prevent or contain the riots. The answer is that it certainly could have done more to contains them.

Everyone knew there would be more protests this weekend. Everyone understood that these protests might well take a far more violent turn than the previous ones. The French news programs we watched were buzzing about this prospect.

Yet, by all accounts, the police were staggeringly ineffectual.

Whats the explanation for this failure? Some speculate that it was intentional, the idea being to allow the hoodlums to create well-photographed mayhem and thereby discredit the entire Gilets Jaunes movement.

As noted, the violence might have that effect. However, the government is mistaken, I think, if it believes discrediting the movement will produce a corresponding increase in good feeling about Emmanuel Macrons administration. The governments inability to handle predictable rioting will likely harm its standing, whatever the effect on Gilets Jaunes.

My guess is that the woeful inadequacy of the governments response is down to the governments incompetence and indifference  two factors that helped spur the protest movement to begin with.

Macron was in Buenos Aires for the G20 meeting for much of last week. He arrived early and cut quite a figure at some of the citys trendy venues (more about this an upcoming post).

Did Macron think seriously about how to handle the upcoming protests in Paris while he was posing as a rock star in Argentina? The outcome of the protests suggests he did not.

Macron presumably relied on his Minister of Interior, head of the department responsible for security issues. But, as I reported here, in a post called Macrons cynical cabinet reshuffle, Macrons brand new Interior Minister is Christophe Castaner. He ran Macrons presidential campaign, but has no experience with national security issues that Ive been able to discover.

I understand there are already calls for Castaner to be sacked. This puts Macron is a no-win position. He must either retain his crony and take all of the fall-out this entails, or he must fire the guy, thereby admitting that those who strongly criticize the selection were right all along.

More demonstrations may occur next week. Protesters are calling for them. Thus, Macrons short-term problem, and Frances, is what to do in response.

Im not sure what the response will be. I hope, however, that this time, at least, Macron will give the problem the attention it deserves and avail himself of counsel from folks who know what they are doing.Last week I wasted no time offering contrarian notes on the Cohen plea. The plea deal occasioned the usual media collusion hysteria. I thought that Cohens plea belied the hysteria. Now RCPs Paul Sperry adds his own reporting to a reading of the plea deal that is consistent with my own. Sources tell Sperry that Mueller apparently withheld exculpatory evidence in the Criminal Information he filed last week against Cohen for lying about the duration of talks about a never-realized Moscow Trump Tower. By email this morning RCP provides this summary of Sperrys column:

Mueller omitted the fact that Cohen did not have any direct points of contact at the Kremlin, and had resorted to sending the emails to Vladimir Putins general press mailbox. Sources who have seen this omitted information say it undercuts the idea of a back channel and thus the special counsels collusion case.

The same criminal information document holds additional exculpatory evidence for Trump, sources say. It quotes an August 2017 letter from Cohen to the Senate intelligence committee in which he states that Trump was never in contact with anyone about this [Moscow Project] proposal other than me. This section of Cohens written testimony, unlike other parts, is not disputed as false by Mueller.

Also notable: Mueller did not challenge Cohens statement that he ultimately determined that the proposal was not feasible and never agreed to make a trip to Russia.

The Moscow tower project never went anywhere because Cohens contact, Felix Sater, a Russian immigrant with a checkered past who was a longtime Cohen associate in New York real estate, didnt have the pull with Putin he claimed to have. Though Cohen may have lied to Congress about the dates, one Hill investigator said, its clear from personal messages he sent in 2015 and 2016 that the Trump Organization did not have formal lines of communication set up with Putins office or the Kremlin during the campaign. There was no secret back channel.

But that hasnt stopped rampant and unfounded speculation about a comeuppance for President Trump by some media figures and Democrats.

Well into the 2016 campaign, one of the presidents closest associates was in touch with the Kremlin on this project, as we now know, and Michael Cohen says he was lying about it to protect the president, said CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer.

Cohen was communicating directly with the Kremlin, Blitzer added.While we usually tell people to think very carefully about getting divorced, in this year there may be a tax incentive, said Fern Frolin, a divorce lawyer at Mirick OConnell in Boston. Im advising people who are getting divorced anyway to get their instruments recorded by the end of the year.PR-Inside.com: 2018-12-03 22:05:39

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 3, 2018 / ALCHEMIST MINING INC. (CSE: AMS) ("AMS" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the signing of a Strategic Partnership Agreement (the "agreement"), with Agua Technologies. Under the terms of the agreement, Alchemist and Agua will deploy the Aqua suite of software and hardware products to cannabis operators throughout the United States. Both companies will continue to explore other opportunities to further expand the strategic partnership and enhance the user experiences for all users. The strategic partnership agreement will see the two companies share revenue on a 50/50 basis from the "net" proceeds generated from all clients contracted under the agreement.In a recent interview with Proactive investors (which can be viewed here), AMS President, Paul Mann said, "The integration of Agua Technologies POS, accounting and essential compliance, data management, wholesale, retail, inventory and managerial functions, into the post-licensing component of our Oddysee platform, affords us unparalleled insight into the pre and post license requirements of cultivators, manufacturers, operators, distributors, delivery companies and dispensaries." Sesie Bonsi, Agua Technologies CEO stated, "We are excited to form this strategic partnership with Alchemist to expand our market reach and deliver real-time, insightful supply chain data and financial services for Cannabis business operators globally. The executive team at Alchemist share a similar vision with the executive team at Aqua with respect to emerging market technology serving the Cannabis industry. Paul and the Alchemist leadership team bring a wealth of experience and knowledge that compliment Aqua's business objectives." About AquaAgua Technologies, Inc. doing business as AQUA, is an Enterprise Supply Chain Infrastructure and financial service provider to business in the Cannabis industry. AQUA streamlines retail, delivery and online medicinal and recreational sales in North America. AQUA's proprietary technology platform automates the accounting and essential compliance, data management, wholesale, retail, inventory and managerial functions necessary to maintain regulatory compliance and effectively manage an enterprise.AQUA also provides banking, payment processing and real-time data solutions. AQUA partners with companies who service, add-value, technology or distribution to Stakeholders, vendors and business operators within the Cannabis Industry.On Behalf of the BoardDave Gdanski,CEO Alchemist Mining Inc.(778) 903-7325Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results. Such statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements. The company disclaims any intention or obligation to revise or update such statements.SOURCE: Alchemist Mining Inc.PR-Inside.com: 2018-12-03 19:29:53

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 3, 2018 / DIGATRADE FINANCIAL CORP. (OTCQB: DIGAF) an OTC digital trade desk for institutions and financial technology "Fintech" company today announced that all resolutions were passed by the requisite majority at its annual general meeting held in Vancouver, British Columbia on November 30, 2018. WDM Chartered Accountants were re-appointed as auditors of the Company for the ensuing year.A total of 142,843,185 common shares were represented at the AGM, representing 63.98% of the votes attached to all outstanding common shares as at the record date. All of the matters submitted to the shareholders for approval as set out in the Company's notice of meeting and information circular dated October 31, 2018, were approved by the requisite majority of votes cast at the AGM.Shareholders voted in favour of setting the number of directors at five and the following incumbent directors were re-elected: Brad J. Moynes; President & CEO, Tyrone Docherty; Director, James Romano; Director and the appointment of Timothy Delaney; Director on November 20, 2018 was duly ratified.Additional information will be provided as it materializes.ABOUT DIGATRADE:DIGATRADE is a global digital asset exchange for institutions and financial technology services company located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The Company is owned and operated 100% by Digatrade Financial Corp which is publicly listed on the OTC.QB under the trading symbol DIGAF. DIGAF is a reporting issuer in the Province of British Columbia, Canada with the British Columbia Securities Commission "BCSC" and in the United States with the Securities Exchange Commission "SEC". Digatrade operates as a registered Money Service Business "MSB" in Canada with FINTAC under Registration Number: M15954395.CORPORATE CONTACT INFORMATION:Digatrade Financial Corp.1500 West Georgia Street, 1300Vancouver, BC V6G-2Z6 CanadaTel: +1(604) 200-0071Fax: +1(604) 200-0072Forward-Looking InformationThis press release contains certain "forward-looking information". All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or development that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future constitute forward-looking information. This forward-looking information reflects the current expectations or beliefs of the company based on information currently available to the Company. Forward-looking information is subject to a number of significant risks and uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking information, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to, the possibility of unanticipated costs and expenses. Any forward-looking information speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking information are reasonable, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such information due to the inherent uncertainty therein.SOURCE: Digatrade Financial Corp.PR-Inside.com: 2018-12-03 15:06:10

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / December 3, 2018 / Viridium Pacific Group Ltd. ("Viridium" or the "Company") (TSXV: VIR) (OTC PINK: VIRFF) is pleased to announce that Experion Biotechnologies Inc. ("Experion"), a wholly owned subsidiary, will be hosting a booth as an Exhibitor at the O'Cannabiz Conference & Expo, taking place December 9 to 11, 2018, at the Parq Vancouver Casino & Resort in Vancouver, British Columbia. The Experion team will be located at Booth 328 in the Main Conference Hall.O'Cannabiz is one of the leading cannabis industry events in Canada (last held in September 2018 in Niagara Falls, Ontario). The conference and expo will feature key speakers and exhibitors involved in growing and cultivation, health and wellness, cannabis science, finance, policy and regulations, marketing and branding, cannabis lifestyle, research and development, product engineering, patient care, retail distribution, government, legal, and media. As an exhibitor, the trade show will be an opportunity for Experion to meet shareholders, talk to existing and new investors, liaise with industry experts, as well as exhibit our new recreational brand for the non-medical retail cannabis market."We continue to finalize two supply agreements with provincial retail distributors in BC and Saskatchewan with several other provinces now requesting product, as well," stated Jay Garnett, Viridium President and Chief Executive Officer. "With our retail brand development complete and our operations geared up for retail distribution, Experion is well positioned and poised for growth across Canada in the retail and broader recreational markets." About ViridiumViridium Pacific Group Ltd. is a consumer wellness and biotech innovation company based in British Columbia, and the parent company of operating subsidiaries involved in horticultural production, (Experion Biotechologies Inc.) property development (Fish Trap Ventures Ltd.), and human resource management (Stave Lake Services Ltd.) Experion Biotechnologies Inc., is a Health Canada licensed producer of cannabis, which operates in an 8,300 square-foot indoor facility outside of Mission, BC.More information about Viridium can be found under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com For further information:Viridium Pacific Group Ltd.Jarrett MalnarichTel: (604) 837-8688info@ viridiumpacific.com Renmark Financial Communications Inc.Melanie Barbeau: mbarbeau@ renmarkfinancial.com Tel: (416) 644-2020 or (514) 939-3989DisclosureThis press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Although the Company believes that such information is reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct.Forward looking information is typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, forecast, postulate 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 are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking information as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to: the state of the financial markets for the Company's equity securities; recent market volatility; the Company's ability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies; the risks identified in the Filing Statement, and other risks and factors that the Company is unaware of at this time. The reader is referred to the Filing Statement dated September 25, 2017 and/or the most recent annual and interim Management's Discussion and Analysis for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects, copies of which may be accessed through the Company page on SEDAR at www.sedar.com SOURCE: Viridium Pacific Group Ltd.PR-Inside.com: 2018-12-03 19:22:02

Fastbase, the prominent web analytics leader, has surpassed Hubspot and Clearbit in the amount of website traffic being analyzed each week. In just two years, Fastbase has achieved massive success with almost one million top brands using its software to identify important website visitor data.

Launched in 2016, Fastbase's success has been propelled by its popular add-on to Google Analytics that can identify website visitors in real-time providing businesses with powerful insights into their website users' behavior. The Fastbase Webleads software combines a website's analytics data with real-time visitor information, allowing businesses to eliminate the guesswork around who is visiting their website.

Gartner, the world's leading information technology company, maintains that software like Fastbase will continue to be hot for marketing leaders who now see analytics as a key business requirement and a source of competitive differentiation. In the Forbes article "Which CRM Applications Matter Most in 2018", writer Louis Columbus explains, "I see analytics- and data-driven clarity as the new normal. I believe that knowing how to quantify marketing contributions and performance requires CMOs and their teams to stay on top of the latest marketing, mobile marketing, and predictive customer analytics apps and technologies constantly. The metrics marketers choose today define who they will be tomorrow and in the future."[1]

Fastbase, Inc. Founder and CEO, Rasmus Refer, emphasizes, "Our mission is to help B2B companies better understand their customers and to help them get in touch with the right people at the right time. With Fastbase, businesses can better prepare their sales and marketing initiatives to reach the right customers, as best as possible."

Fastbase, Inc.'s standard Webleads package is a free Google Analytics add-on that allows users to analyze basic web traffic and provides information such as the visitor's website, company address, and phone number. The Webleads software provides a company's visitor information for the past 90 days with all data available for download to CSV and Excel formats. Google Analytics users can easily access a detailed list of their website visitors for the past 12 months by signing in at analytics.fastbase.com.

[1] https://www.forbes.com/sites/louiscolumbus/2018/11/13/which-crm-applications-matter-most-in-2018/#b01d22576766

This announcement is distributed by West Corporation on behalf of West Corporation clients.

The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: Fastbase Inc. via Globenewswire

Flavored Milk Market

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# 504 Words

Future Market Insights 616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018, Valley Cottage, NY 10989, United States T: +1-347-918-3531 F: +1-845-579-5705 Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.com Website: www.futuremarketinsights.comAnalyst+1 03479183531

Flavored milk is a dairy drink produced with milk, sugar, colorings, and additional flavor and sweetener. It offers some vital nutrients such as calcium, potassium, protein, phosphorus, vitamins A, D and B12, niacin and riboflavin. The flavored milk is generally available in different flavors such as strawberry, chocolate and vanilla flavors in fat free and low fat ranges.The Global Flavored Milk industry is at nascent stage as the consumption is still low as compared to other drinks such as carbonated soft drinks. Upbeat consumer perceptions about the various health benefits of milk are creating prospects for flavored drinks consumption across the World. This will escalate the overall flavored milk market globally.Request Report Sample@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-639 Global Flavored Milk Market Segmentation:Global Flavored Milk industry can be divided on the basis of types of ingredients such as calcium propionate, hydrocolloids, natural colors, natural flavors, food and beverage enzymes, food and beverage emulsifiers, food and beverage texturants, food phosphates, high intensity sweeteners, food and beverage preservatives, flavourant, food and beverage stabilizers and systems, food and beverage colorants, food and beverage sugar and its substitutes, and fruit concentrates. The industry can also be segmented on the basis of products such as high pressure processing and sodium reducing agents. Global Flavored Milk Market can also be segregated by types of packaging such as paper-based (cartons), plastic, glass, metal, and others.Global Flavored Milk Region-wise Outlook:Geographically, the Global Flavored Milk industry can be divided by major regions which include North America, Latin America, Western and Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific region, Japan, Middle East and Africa. Presently, China captured the highest market share in the overall revenue of Global Flavored Milk market, followed by the U.S. and India holding second and third position respectively. In Asia, rising demand for flavored milk over the past few years were highly propelled by China, Indonesia, and India. In the next few years, the demand for flavored milk is anticipated to incline globally especially in Latin America and some regions of Asia.Global Flavored Milk Market Growth Drivers:Rising health consciousness and aspiration for nutritious and healthy food, changing lifestyle along with the change in consumers taste and preferences especially in developing countries are strengthening the growth of Global Flavored Milk industry. Besides this, consumers unscheduled eating habits due to busy working schedule are also fostering the demand for flavored milk in different parts of the world.Request For Table Of Content @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-639 Global Flavored Milk Market: Major Players: Some of the key players identified across the value chain in the Global Flavored Milk market includes Danone (France) and Kraft Foods Group (U.S.A.). These two companies have captured the major chunk in the Global Flavored Milk Industry. Besides this, there are other major players dominating in this industry such as Yili Industrial Group Company Limited (China), China Mengniu Dairy Company Limited, (Amul) Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Limited (India), Mother Dairy Fruit and Vegetable Private Limited (India).PR-Inside.com: 2018-12-03 14:35:40

Press Information





Published by

ACCESSWIRE News Network

888.952.4446

e-mail

http://www.accesswire.com







# 628 Words

ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446

LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / December 3, 2018 / Healthier Choices Management Corp. (OTC PINK: HCMC) (''HCMC or the ''Company'') today announced that it will be presenting at the 11th annual LD Micro Main Event on Thursday, December 6 at 12:30 PM PST. Jeff Holman, Chief Executive Officer of HCMC, will be presenting and meeting with investors.Mr. Holman commented ''we've had an incredibly eventful year; the issuance of the U.S. Patents on our revolutionary Q-Cup technology delivery system is a significant milestone for HCMC and we are excited to be presenting the details at the LD Micro Conference.'' The LD Micro Main Event will take place December 4th, 5th, and 6th, in Los Angeles at the Luxe Sunset Bel Air Hotel.About Healthier Choices Management Corp.Healthier Choices Management Corp. is a holding company focused on providing consumers with healthier daily choices with respect to nutrition and other lifestyle alternatives. One segment of our business is our natural and organic grocery operations in Ft. Myers, Florida. Another segment is a U.S. based retailer of vaporizers and e-liquids. HCMC sells direct to consumer via company-owned brick-and-mortar retail locations operating under ''Ada's Natural Market'' and ''The Vape Store'' brands. The newest source of revenue for HCMC is our technology and IP for use in the cannabis and CBD market.Healthier Choices Management Corp. Inc. ( www.healthiercmc.com) About LD MicroLD Micro was founded in 2006 with the sole purpose of being an independent resource in the microcap space.What started out as a newsletter highlighting unique companies has transformed into several influential events annually (Invitational, Summit, and Main Event).In 2015, LDM launched the first pure microcap index (the LDMi) to exclusively provide intraday information on the entire sector. LD will continue to provide valuable tools for the benefit of everyone in the small and micro-cap universe. For those interested in attending, please contact David Scher at david@ ldmicro.com or visit www.ldmicro.com for more information.Forward Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward looking statements within the meaning of that term in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934). Additional written or oral forward-looking statements may be made by the Company from time to time in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission or otherwise. Statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts are forward looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and are based on management's estimates, assumptions and projections and are not guarantees of future performance. The Company assumes no obligation to update these statements. Forward looking statements may include, but are not limited to, projections or estimates of revenue, income or loss, exit costs, cash flow needs and capital expenditures, statements regarding future operations, expansion or restructuring plans, including our recent exit from and winding down of our wholesale distribution operations. In addition, when used in this release, the words ''anticipates,'' ''believes,'' ''estimates,'' ''expects,'' ''intends,'' and ''plans'' and variations thereof and similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements.Factors that may affect our future results of operations and financial condition include, but are not limited to, fluctuations in demand for our products, the introduction of new products, our ability to maintain customer and strategic business relationships, the impact of competitive products and pricing, growth in targeted markets, the adequacy of our liquidity and financial strength to support its growth, and other information that may be detailed from time-to-time in our filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.Contact Information:Healthier Choices Management Corp.3800 North 28TH Way, #1Hollywood, FL 33020Office: 305-600-5004 / Fax: 954-272-7773SOURCE: Healthier Choices Management Corp.Herbal Tea Market

PR-Inside.com: 2018-12-03 08:59:44

Press Information

Future Market Insights

Future Market Insights 616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018, Valley Cottage, NY 10989, United States T: +1-347-918-3531 F: +1-845-579-5705 Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.com Website: www.futuremarketinsights.com



Sonali

Analyst

+1 03479183531

email

https://www.futuremarketinsights.com





# 694 Words

Future Market Insights 616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018, Valley Cottage, NY 10989, United States T: +1-347-918-3531 F: +1-845-579-5705 Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.com Website: www.futuremarketinsights.comAnalyst+1 03479183531

In todays world the second largest consumed beverage is tea after water. Herbal Tea is the new emerging trend among the health conscious people. Herbal tea is made from infusion or by boiling the herbs, spices or dissolved chemicals from herbal or plant material in water to extract the active herbal ingredients. These herbal teas are taken from eminent true teas like black, green, yellow, etc. It is made from the cured leaves of tea plant Camellia Sinensis and also from decaffeinated tea. Like beverages, herbal tea can be presented as hot or cold. Herbal tea can be consumed as iced tea too by chilling it with ice cubes in summer season. Herbal tea can be consumed with sugar or honey, with or without fruit juices for health conscious people and diabetic people. Drinking herbal tea cuts down caffeine intake and helps in reducing sugar level. There are various types of herbal teas like ginger, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, hibiscus, jasmine, rosehip, mint, chamomile, etc.Herbal Tea Market Segmentation:Herbal tea market is segmented on the basis of raw material type, flavor type, packaging type, product type and region. On the basis of raw material type herbal tea market is segmented as black tea, green tea and yellow tea. Out of these segments black herbal tea market share is less as compared to green herbal tea which is recognized as nutritious and healthier to the young generation especially. Green herbal tea provides wider spectrum of varieties and new product developments in relation to black herbal tea. On the basis of product type herbal tea is segmented as instant premixes, liquid and powdered RTD and syrups. From these given segments powdered instant premixes are being widely used as it is easy to carry anywhere and is favorable in every season. Liquid herbal tea is consumed on a large scale as a refreshing drinks which contributes a rapid growth in herbal tea market. The syrup includes sugar and herbal tea extracts which is mostly used by the young generation benefiting to increase the market share of herbal tea market.Herbal tea market is segmented as flavor types like lemongrass, peppermint, fruit, hibiscus, ginger and chamomile. Lemongrass herbal tea is mostly consumed worldwide. Peppermint herbal tea relieves muscle spasms and is used widely. Herbal tea made from chamomile flowers can be helpful in insomnia. Herbal tea is also segmented on the basis of packaging like can packaging, carton packs, herbal tea bags, herbal tea paper pouches and loose tea, which covers herbal tea market share and is expected to expand widely in the forthcoming years.Request Report Sample@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-2513 Herbal Tea Market: Regional OutlookThe herbal tea market is segmented on the basis of regions like North America, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Asia Pacific excluding Japan, Japan and Middle East and Africa. Japan, Eastern Europe and North America are in increasing demand for herbal tea, which is thepotential market and established markets for herbal tea due to its anti-aging properties. New herbal tea brands are appearing weekly with the increasing demands for processed foods and ready to drink beverages on a large scale and is expected to scroll robust CAGR in forthcoming years.Herbal Tea Market: DriversIncreased population, disposable income, growing health awareness of the consumers and the ongoing wellness trends are some of the driving factors influencing to enlarge the herbal tea market in the anticipated years. Lipton Herbal Tea is mostly used for the treatment of liver problems by supporting it in the release of toxins from the body. In many cases the frontier between enjoyment and medicinal purposes have shifted to obscure. These trends in turn initiated opportunities for the herbal tea extract producers to contribute the functional food and neutraceutical market sectors with new ingredients.Ask The Analyst@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/herbal-tea-market#engage_analyst Herbal Tea Market: Key Players The key players operating in herbal tea market consists of AB Food and Beverages, Tata Global Beverages, Martin Bauer Group, Nestea, Unilever, Buddhas Herbs, Green Earth Products Pvt Ltd, Mothers Parkers Tea and Coffee Inc., Global Herbitech, Rooibos and Typhoo India.PR-Inside.com: 2018-12-03 08:01:03

Press Release

Outside trading hours - Regulated information*

Brussels  3 December 2018 (before trading hours)

KBC closes sale of part of legacy corporate and buy to let loan portfolio to Goldman Sachs

On 30 November 2018, KBC Group NV closed the sale announced on 9 August 2018 of a predominantly non-performing KBC Bank Ireland loan portfolio of approximately 1.9bn to entities established and financed by Goldman Sachs (Beltany Property Finance DAC, Tramore Funding DAC and Banna Funding DAC).



The closing of the transaction will have a positive impact on P&L and CET1 ratio, and reduce the NPL ratio. Details of the final impact of this transaction on KBC Group will be communicated together with the publication of our 4Q2018/FY2018 results on 14 February 2019.

For more information, please contact:

- Kurt De Baenst, General Manager, Investor Relations, KBC Group

Tel + 32 2 429 35 73 - E-mail: investor.relations@kbc.com

- Viviane Huybrecht, General Manager, Corporate Communication/Spokesperson, KBC Group

Tel + 32 2 429 85 45 - E-mail: pressofficekbc@kbc.be

* This news item contains information that is subject to the transparency regulations for listed companies.



KBC Group NV

Havenlaan 2  1080 Brussels

Viviane Huybrecht

General Manager

Corporate Communication /Spokesperson

Tel. +32 2 429 85 45







Press Office

Tel. +32 2 429 65 01 Stef Leunens

Tel. +32 2 429 29 15 Ilse De Muyer

Tel. +32 2 429 32 88 Pieter Kusse

E-mail: pressofficekbc@kbc.be







KBC press releases are available at www.kbc.com or can be obtained by sending an e-mail to pressofficekbc@kbc.be



Follow us on www.twitter.com/kbc_group



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AttachmentPR-Inside.com: 2018-12-03 06:29:01

A new ecosystem of games and block chains was committed to create by Ludos and business leaders in Dubai

Ludos First Meet up in Dubai Ended with Great Success

Media contact

Company Name: Ludos

Person: Zoe Zhang

E-mail: partner@ludos.one

Website: https://ludos.one

The first Ludos Middle East investors meeting held in Dubai ended with great success.

It is a super-star project invested by Softbank (a Japanese company) with Fuad Farooq Abdul Qader Bastak (CEO of Zabeel Group, the top company in Duba), actor Ali and other high potential investors. This meeting was live and watched by 116,000 fans on live broadcast app YiZhiBo, collecting many comments and recommendations. Moreover, overseas Telegram fans also viewed it via Periscope and had many feedbacks and response.

Ludos has been committed to create a decentralized gaming ecosystem followed by the first activity, the launch of Lud Pay Wallet, which applys the interaction of online and offline applications as well as online digital asset transactions and offline direct cash. Besides, it records the assets and key data of game players to increase the transparency. In addition, it reaches the unique confirmation by different intelligent contracts for different ways of virtual assets. As a result, intra-game and cross-game asset transaction becomes available. Lud Pay Wallet is developed based on Plasma Cash technology that applys the side-chain capacity expansion scheme. The decentralized game exchange will integrate all digital assets based on Ludos' block chain for current game assets transaction. Lud Pay Wallet opened a creative and inspiring gaming ecosystem that allows players to earn money from games as well as social events. Investors can reduce marketing costs and can gain additional revenue from other games.

Ludos will continue the world tour and aim to become the leading app

If you want to have more information,please join Ludos official Telegram community: https://t.me/LudosProtocol

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181202005PR-Inside.com: 2018-12-03 08:06:01

Terveystalo has signed a contract on 27 November to acquire a share of about 20% in Etsimo Healthcare Oy. Etsimo Healthcare was established in 2016 and develops a platform built specifically for healthcare, combining artificial intelligence, machine learning and health data. On top of Etsimo's platform, Etsimo's clients can quickly implement digital solutions that fit into their existing service design, which makes it possible for them to easily offer AI-based services to consumers. One example is an AI-assisted care need self-assessment service that can be integrated into a mobile application, allowing the user to evaluate their own health status in order to determine care need, urgency and the next step. The company employs a total of 19 business, medical and technology professionals. More about Etsimo at www.etsimo.com.

"Terveystalo wants to be a catalyst for digitalisation of healthcare services as part of our quality and customer focused strategy. Artificial intelligence solutions simultaneously improve both customer experience and clinical quality. We have invested in building our digital development capabilities and produced a number of support applications for our customers and our own professionals. Key themes in development include holistic well-being, prevention and predicting and managing workability, "says Juha Juosila, Director of Terveystalo Digitalisation.

"Our investment supports deep cooperation with Etsimo. We are delighted to access and further develop Etsimo's AI-based assessment tool together. The combination of human and AI will continue our quality agenda. We will pilot the tool with our nurses who assess the need for care, and the goal is to extend our use over the next year to, among other things, online appointment bookings. The tool helps in guiding the customer to the right professional, in the right channel and at the right time. This enables an even more fluent customer experience and frees up time for healthcare professionals, "continues Juha Juosila, Director of Terveystalo Digitalisation.

"We have aimed to develop our solution to meet the challenges of availability and access in healthcare and Terveystalo is the ideal partner for Etsimo. We share the same vision for the future, and together we have the opportunity to offer outstanding digital services for a more holistic, predictive and preventive healthcare delivery in the future, "says Thomas Grandell, CEO of Etsimo.

For more information, please contact:

Terveystalo, CDO Juha Juosila +358 30 63 31738

Etsimo Healthcare Oy, CEO Thomas Grandell +358 40 9000 474

Terveystalo in brief

Terveystalo is a listed company on the Helsinki Stock Exchange. Terveystalo is the largest healthcare service company in Finland with net sales and network. The company offers versatile primary and secondary health care services for corporate and private customers and the public sector. The nationwide network covers 180 locations across Finland, complemented by 24/7 digital services.

In 2017, Terveystalo had approximately 1.2 million individual customers and approximately 3.3 million doctor visits. Nearly 9,000 healthcare professionals work in Terveystalo, about half of whom are private practitioners. Terveystalo's services carry the Key Flag symbol and the company is a member of the Association for Finnish Work. www.terveystalo.com

This announcement is distributed by West Corporation on behalf of West Corporation clients.

The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: Terveystalo Oyj via Globenewswire

PR-Inside.com: 2018-12-03 13:43:02

Industry Leaders, Real-Time Scientists and Academics to converge and discuss Innovation, IoT & Cybersecurity

Over 100 delegates to participate

Global unveiling of BANNERS  Neuro Morphing by noted AI Scientist Anthony Carson

REINVENT CONFERENCE-2018: 2nd Edition Set to Open in Dubai

Santosh Singh

Santosh@rocheston.com

Rocheston, a leading New York-based Accreditation Institution that helps organizations adhere to best business practices, will conduct the 2nd Edition of its flagship conference, REINVENT 2018 on December 7 and 8, 2018 at the SP Jain School of Global Management, Dubai. The conference on Innovation, IoT & Cybersecurity will bring together Industry Leaders, Scientists, Startup Gurus and Academics and showcase the growth of Industrial Automation in the Middle East & North African Region with an emphasis on the impact of Industry 4.0, AI/Robotics, Internet of Things (IoT) and Cybersecurity across Aviation, Smart Cities, E-Commerce, Retail, Automation, Business Efficiency, Learning and Product Innovation.

With technology disrupting every sphere of business and life, REINVENT 2018 will showcase the latest in digital transformation. The conference will also feature a certification workshop on Cybersecurity, Panel discussions and an unveiling Lecture on BANNERS - Neuro Morphing in Artificial Intelligence by AI Scientist Anthony Carson.

Some of the Global Leaders on the speaker panel include:

Capt. Koh Chen Tien, Aerodyne

Dr. Hichem Maya, SAP

Mr. Dheeraj Singh, DOTS Tech Systems

Mr. Jorge Castellote, Innoway ME

Dr. Christopher Abraham, CEO, SP Jain School of Global Management

Dr. Jassim Haji, Gulf Air

Mr. Anthony Carson, AI Scientist

Prof. Raunaq Dubey, AMITY University, Dubai

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Haja Mohideen, President & CEO, Rocheston LLC, New York, said, We have crossed a technology tipping point. AI is emerging as the fuel of the technology intensive age and the IoT is the force our Smart Cities are driven by. Cybersecurity around todays business enterprises, powered by IoT and machine learning techniques has become critical to protecting us, our data and securing our environments. In this backdrop, REINVENT is designed to offer a window to the future of technology in business and inspire growth driven professionals to stay ahead of the curve. With digitalisation forming the crucial pillars of businesses in the MENA, the region is fast emerging as a pivot of innovation.

Over 100 delegates including CEOs, CTOs, CIOs, Entrepreneurs, Innovation Managers, Startup Founders, Researchers and Academicians will participate in this conclave.

The Conference will cover themes around a gamut of technological innovations such as:

Drones Engineering

Voice activated automation devices

Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality

Innovation in Learning & Re-Skilling

ABOUT ROCHESTON

Rocheston is an Internet Technology Company in Training & Certification with cutting-edge research and development in emerging technologies such as Internet of Things, Cybersecurity and Automation. Led by a team of professionals who share a passion for research, understanding emerging technologies, the need for change and the scope for innovation, Rocheston is working towards creating products that can help organizations to thrive in dynamic business environments.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005PR-Inside.com: 2018-12-03 18:03:01

3 December 2018

Volta Finance Limited (VTA / VTAS)

Total Voting Rights

In accordance with Rule 5.6.1 of the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules (the DTRs), Volta Finance Limited (the "Company") advises that as at 30 November 2018 its issued share capital comprises 36,575,703 Ordinary Shares and 1 Class B Share. The total issued share capital with voting rights is 36,575,704.

Shareholders may use this total voting rights figure as the denominator for the calculations by which they may determine whether they are required to notify the Company or the AFM of their interest in, or a change to their interest in, the share capital of the Company.

For further information, please contact:

Company Secretary and Administrator

BNP Paribas Securities Services S.C.A, Guernsey Branch

guernsey.bp2s.volta.cosec@bnpparibas.com

+44 (0) 1481 750 853

Corporate Broker

Cenkos Securities plc

Sapna Shah

Andrew Worne

+44 (0) 20 7397 8900

For the Investment Manager

AXA Investment Managers Paris

Serge Demay

serge.demay@axa-im.com

+33 (0) 1 44 45 84 47

*****

ABOUT VOLTA FINANCE LIMITED





Volta Finance Limited is incorporated in Guernsey under The Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008 (as amended) and listed on Euronext Amsterdam and the London Stock Exchange's Main Market for listed securities. Voltas home member state for the purposes of the EU Transparency Directive is the Netherlands. As such, Volta is subject to regulation and supervision by the AFM, being the regulator for financial markets in the Netherlands.

Voltas investment objectives are to preserve capital across the credit cycle and to provide a stable stream of income to its shareholders through dividends. Volta seeks to attain its investment objectives predominantly through diversified investments in structured finance assets. The assets that the Company may invest in either directly or indirectly include, but are not limited to: corporate credits; sovereign and quasi-sovereign debt; residential mortgage loans; and, automobile loans. The Companys approach to investment is through vehicles and arrangements that essentially provide leveraged exposure to portfolios of such underlying assets. The Company has appointed AXA Investment Managers Paris an investment management company with a division specialised in structured credit, for the investment management of all its assets.

*****

ABOUT AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS

AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) is a multi-expert asset management company within the AXA Group, a global leader in financial protection and wealth management. AXA IM is one of the largest European-based asset managers with 759 billion in assets under management as of the end of June 2018. AXA IM employs approximately 2,420 people around the world.

*****

NOT FOR RELEASE, DISTRIBUTION OR PUBLICATION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES

This press release is for information only and does not constitute an invitation or inducement to acquire shares in Volta Finance. Its circulation may be prohibited in certain jurisdictions and no recipient may circulate copies of this document in breach of such limitations or restrictions. This document is not an offer for sale of the securities referred to herein in the United States or to persons who are "U.S. persons" for purposes of Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), or otherwise in circumstances where such offer would be restricted by applicable law. Such securities may not be sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration from the Securities Act. The company does not intend to register any portion of the offer of such securities in the United States or to conduct a public offering of such securities in the United States.

*****

This communication is only being distributed to and is only directed at (i) persons who are outside the United Kingdom or (ii) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the "Order") or (iii) high net worth companies, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"). The securities referred to herein are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents. Past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance.

AttachmentPR-Inside.com: 2018-12-03 20:47:01

WEX Signs Long-Term Fuel Card Processing Deal with Z Energy

WEX Inc.

News media contact:

Rob Gould, +1 207 523 7429

Robert.Gould@wexinc.com

or

WEX Asia Pacific

News media contact:

Kathryn Grant, +61 450 965 024

kathryn.grant@wexaustralia.com

WEX Card Australia, a subsidiary of WEX Inc. (NYSE: WEX), a leading provider of corporate payment solutions, today announced that it has signed a significant agreement with Z Energy Ltd.

Z Energy, a leading New Zealand Transport Energy Company, has selected WEX to develop, support and manage a fuel card processing platform for Z Energy in New Zealand along with an agreement to process Z Energys fuel cards over the next 5 years.

Our ongoing investment in our technology infrastructure and front end systems is strengthening our reputation as the fuel card provider of choice for the major fuel companies in the region, said Rick Rose, WEX Asia Pacific Managing Director. We are delighted to commence our relationship with Z Energy and look forward to supporting the Z Energy fuel card business, which will allow them to concentrate on their core function of delivering quality fuel to their customers.

While WEX has already been growing its footprint in Asia Pacific, this new deal represents its further expansion into New Zealand for the fuel arm of the business.

About WEX Inc.

Powered by the belief that complex payment systems can be made simple, WEX Inc. (NYSE: WEX) is a leading provider of payment processing and business solutions across a wide spectrum of sectors, including fleet, travel and healthcare. WEX operates in more than 10 countries and in more than 20 currencies through more than 3,500 associates around the world. WEX fleet cards offer 11.5 million vehicles exceptional payment security and control; purchase volume in its travel and corporate solutions segment grew to $30.3 billion in 2017; and the WEX Health financial technology platform helps 300,000 employers and more than 25 million consumers better manage healthcare expenses. For more information, visit www.wexinc.com.

For more information about WEX Australia, please visit www.wexaustralia.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005

WEX Card Australia, a subsidiary of WEX Inc., today announced that it has signed a significant agreement with Z Energy Ltd.The absence of Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke on Monday stalled hearing of a suit by MTN Nigeria against the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) challenging the legality of N242 billion and 1.3 billion dollars import duties and withholding tax assessment.

Hearing of pending applications in the suit could not hold on Monday before a Federal High Court in Lagos as earlier scheduled because Mr Aneke was away on an official duty.

The court consequently adjourned the hearing until Feb. 7, 2019.

Counsel to both parties had, at the last adjourned date, on Nov. 8, informed the court of the applications.

Wole Olanipekun, a senior advocate of Nigeria, was the lead counsel to MTN, while T.A Gazali, a chief state counsel from the Federal Ministry of Justice, represented the AGF.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that MTN instituted the suit by a writ dated Sept.10, challenging the legality of the AGFs assessment of its import duties, withholding of tax and value-added tax in the sums of N242 billion and 1.3 billion dollars.

In the suit, MTN claims that a revenue assets investigation allegedly carried out by the Federal Government on MTN for the period of 2007  2017 violates Section 36 of the Constitution.

It also claims that the governments decision conveyed through the office of the AGF, by a letter dated Aug. 20, contravenes the provisions of the section.

The telecoms company seeks a declaration that the defendant (AGF) acted in excess of his powers by allegedly directing, through a letter dated May 10, an assessment, which MTN claims, usurped the powers of the Nigerian Customs Service to demand import duties.

MTN also alleges, among other things, that the AGF usurped the powers of the Federal Inland Revenue Service to audit and demand remittance of withholding tax and value-added tax.

It seeks a court order vacating the AGFs letter dated Aug. 20, demanding N242 billion and 1.3 billion dollars from MTN.

The telecoms company seeks to claim N3 billion against AGF as general damages, exemplary damages and legal costs.

However, in a preliminary objection, the AGF argued that the plaintiff (MTN) instituted the suit in disregard to Section 2 of the Public Officers Protection Act  which provides that any action against a public officer must be made within three months from the commencement of the cause of action.

AGF argued that plaintiffs failure to begin the suit as stipulated by law robs the court of its jurisdiction to entertain the case.

NAN reports that MTN also filed a related suit before another Federal High Court in Lagos against the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) over alleged 8.1 billion dollars repatriated funds.

It is seeking an injunction to restrain the CBN from taking further actions to reclaim the money.

The CBN had alleged that the telecoms firm improperly repatriated dividends, and requested it returns 8.1 billion dollars to its coffers.

The case involving CBN will be heard before Justice Saliu Saidu on Dec. 4.

(NAN)The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) workers said on Monday they have served their management a seven-day notice of their intention to embark on an indefinite strike.

The workers in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES in Abuja said the joint council of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) NAICOM Unit, and the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Councils (JNPSNC) have already approved the action.

We the members of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) NAICOM Unit, constituting council 1 of the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Councils (JNPSNC), and a frontline affiliate member of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), feels extremely constrained to inform you of our preparedness to commence an industrial action in the National Insurance Commission if nothing is done in the next seven days to address our demands, chairman of the workers association, Abdulateef Ibrahim, and his vice chairman, Maulud Usman, said in the notice.

The notice dated November 29 was addressed to the Commissioner for Insurance, NAICOM, Abuja.

The association said its main grouse was the decision to stagnate the career progression of staff of the commission.

Last September, the workers staged a three-day warning strike to protest NAICOM managements alleged failure to deliver on its agreement on staff welfare and improved working conditions.

During the strike, the workers accused NAICOM management of not implementing September 26, 2017 agreement on workers welfare after a resolution at the end of a reconciliation meeting by Federal Ministry of Labour on August 28 on their demands.

Mr Ibrahim said the management had agreed to activate an online portal within a month, in addition to the provision of all working materials, including computers and other accessories to boost the corporations operational efficiency.

Other demands of the workers include bridging the gap between senior managers and directorate cadre, equitable review of tax among all categories of workers, and regular training programme for redeployed staff.

Also, workers had demanded the promotion for all categories of staff to take up the vacant positions left by those who either retired, died or their appointment terminated, and this was not limited to officers who are assistant managers.

According to Mr Ibrahim, apart from refusing to implement the agreements reached at the meeting, the NAICOM management has continued to mismanage available revenue on unauthorised local and foreign trips that do not add value to the commissions mandate.

Having reviewed the update provided in its letter dated November 27, 2018, the union found the NAICOM management deliberately violated the MOU it signed. Consequently, the Union has clarified the true position of the issues as contained in our letter to the ASCSN National body dated November 29, 2018.

Therefore, if these demands are not met within seven days from the date of this letter, the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, NAICOM Unit will wish to be absolved of any blame, whatsoever, if the aggrieved members of staff of the commission take to self-help in order to seek justice on the matter.

Mr Ibrahim said notice has been sent to the Ministers of Finance, Federal Ministry of Labour & Employment, the Inspector General of Police, the Director General, State Security Services (SSS), the President, Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria, the President, Association of Senior Civil Servant of Nigeria, and the Chairman, Governing Board of NAICOM.

NAICOM spokesperson, Rasak Salami, did not pick several calls to his telephones when this reporter attempted to seek NAICOM managements reaction to the notice on Monday.

He did not also respond to the text messages sent to him for his comments.A popular musician, Small Doctor, whose real name is Adekunle Temitope, has been arrested by the Lagos State Police Command for unlawful possession of a firearm and for allegedly threatening to shoot a police officer.

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Edgal Imohimi, revealed this on Monday while parading the musician alongside three other suspects.

Mr Imohimi said, It was alleged that some unknown men, four of them, in an unregistered green SUV had brought out a gun and threatened a policeman that if he does not leave the road, they will shoot him.

He explained that believing that the accused were armed robbers, he sent out his officials who eventually arrested them.

He said the accused were brought to the police headquarters for interrogation.

Mr Imohimi added that it was at that point it was discovered that one of them was Small Doctor.

They were arrested in possession of a functional rifle, cartridge and some of their personal belongings, he said.

He said Small Doctor and others arrested will be charged to court.

Confirming the incident in an interview with PREMIUM TIMES, Small Doctors manager, Segun Raheem, said his artiste indeed owns a personal rifle.

He said, Yes, Small Doctor was arrested and paraded today by the police but I can confirm to you that the rifle is licensed and its for his personal protection. He was on his way to catch an appointment when he was stopped by the police and the arm was discovered during the search.

He tried to explain himself but the police didnt hear him well and he was arrested and immediately dialled his station. They are still at the police station and there is an investigation ongoing to find out the license of the riffle.

Later on Monday evening, the Lagos police spokesperson, Chike Oti, also told PREMIUM TIMES the musician was also being investigated for an earlier offence.

Small Doctor is currently under investigation for firing live ammunition at the Agege stadium after a show on November 27, 2018, he said.

.

He was arrested and taken to the state CID for questioning. He was alleged to have fired a gun; the pellets from the gun injured four people who were rushed to the hospital. Small Doctor will be charged to court for prosecution, Mr Oti said.

A former bus conductor, Small Doctor came close to the music scene as a commercial bike rider who offered his service to many street artists and ran errands at Alaba International Market, Lagos.

He was discovered by one of his customers, DJ Real of Eko FM, who gave him his first break.

His debut album, Omo Iya Teacher, was released in 2015, and it featured Mz Kiss, Olamide, Seriki and Qdot.The body of a journalist has been found in western Mexico, making him the 11th member of the profession to be killed in the country this year, local media reported on Monday.

Alejandro Marquez, director of the daily Orion Informativo, was having a meal with his family when he received a phone call and went out in the city of Tepic on Friday.

It said a day later, his body with bullet holes was found on a road.

Marquez had been active in the leftist Morena party of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who was sworn in on Saturday and who has vowed to take measures against the countrys soaring crime rate.

The human rights group Article 19 called on the authorities to investigate Marquez murder and to protect his colleagues.

Mexico is one of the worlds most dangerous countries to work as a journalist.

A wave of violence linked to drug cartels claimed more than 29,000 lives in Mexico in 2017. (dpa/NAN)Three youth, who proposed smart ideas on the promotion of the HIV/AIDS self-testing among Nigerian youth, have been recognised by a team of Nigerian researchers.

HIV self-testing (HIVST) is the process by which people who want to know their HIV status perform HIV test themselves and interpret the result in private.

This is generally conducted using rapid test kits, such as finger stick tests (on whole blood) or mouth swab tests (on oral-fluid).

The winners, Tony Akeju, Ginika Nzokwe and Idris Badmus, defeated 903 other contestants to come tops.

Explaining the concept of self-testing, Mr Badmus said it had the potential to expand the number of persons aware of their HIV status.

Its potential to reach those who may not otherwise test may enable the country to achieve a situation where 90% of Nigerians living with HIV may know their status.

Self-testing allows people to test on their own without having to go to the clinics or health facilities. It empowers people by normalising screening for HIV while giving individuals more rights and control over their own health, he noted.

The contest is an initiative of the 4Youth By Youth (4YBY) Group. The latter is a team of Nigerian researchers led by Oliver Ezechi, a doctor at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Researchers (NIMR) and scientists at Saint Louis University and the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

They were backed by the United States National Institute of Health (NIH), Eunice Shriver National Institutes of Child Health and Human Development.

The event which was held in commemoration of the World AIDS Day, held at the Police Training College, Ikeja, Lagos on Saturday.

The top three winnerswent home with prizes, gadgets, as well as mentorship opportunities from leading business and health professionals.

4YBY said they identified the adoption of HIV self-testing as an additional way to create demand for HIV testing, thereby increasing knowledge of HIV status and reducing the accelerated spread of HIV/AIDS nationwide among young people in Nigeria.

Explaining the idea behind the campaign at the event which had PREMIUM TIMES in attendance, the team members said they coordinated a social media-driven HIV Self-Testing Contest that ran from October 25 to November 25.

The idea, they said, was in a bid to crowd-source innovative ideas to promote HIV self-testing in Nigeria.

The winners will be trained based on the ideas they have pitched.

Speaking at the World AIDS Day HIV self-testing awareness event, the principal investigator, Juliet Iwelunmor, a doctor, said, Our goal is to drive the increased participation of young Nigerians in the fight against HIV/AIDS through generating demand and adoption of self-testing. This we hope to achieve by rewarding innovative and creative ideas that encourage self-testing amongst Nigerian Youth, which will ultimately go a long way in helping to end the AIDS epidemic as a public health threat.

Speaking further, she added that Nigeria currently has the highest rate of new HIV infection in Africa, after South Africa and Uganda.

UNAIDS reported that there are 200,000 newly infected people in Nigeria annually  46,000 of these are young women and 33,900 are young men, she said.

Before the winners were announced, the organisers in collaboration with Lagos AIDS Control Agency organised a walkathon. Free condoms were given out, while oral and confirmatory blood-based HIV tests were administered to over 300 attendees by medical practitioners at the event.Following a forensic audit of 15 government-owned companies that revealed that N8.1 trillion was not remitted into the Federation Account between 2010 and 2015, the Nigerian government has announced new measures to ensure that all revenue accrued to the government from these enterprises are effectively collected.

Earlier this year a forensic report by auditing firm, KPMG, showed that the Government Owned Enterprises (GOEs) as they are officially known did not remit N8.1 trillion within a period of five years, which the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, in May, said was equivalent to the countrys yearly national budget.

Now the government has moved to plug the income leakages from its revenue-generating agencies. A circular from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation dated October 16 obtained by PREMIUM TIMES has come up with new measures to ensure that all funds generated by these companies are correctly and efficiently swept in the Federation Account.

The new measures were also aimed at making the companies more efficient, reduce wastage and eradicate corruption.

The circular stipulated a re-categorisation of the GOEs into self-funded, partially funded or fully funded, as is the practice in other countries in the world, to optimise their contributions towards funding the federal budget.

Government has noted also that most GOEs remit less operating surpluses to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) than is required by law and/or financial regulations, thereby imposing avoidable restrictions on governments ability to implement its developmental agenda, the circular reads.

Henceforth, the performance contracts of the chief executive officers (CEOs) and other top management staff of these enterprises will include financial indicators and targets.

Also, the office of the Accountant General of the Federation will be required to regularly monitor the revenue and expenditure performance of all GOEs and ensure that they are published monthly.

There shall also be a quarterly Budget performance review of the GOEs by the budget office.

The circular stated that the government will now strictly enforce the peg of expenses, frequency of board meetings, overseas travels as well as cut other potentially wasteful practices.

The circular also reiterated that it is mandatory for all GOEs to use the Treasury Single Account (TSA) for all financial transactions. According to the circular, remittances are now be collected quarterly instead of annually as was the practice.

Other measures stipulated in the circular include:

Accounts of all GOEs shall henceforth be audited within 4(four) months after the end of each financial year;

the computation of the operating surplus shall be reviewed to allow the deduction from the agencys revenues of only operational expenses, wholly, reasonably and necessarily incurred in its operations;

annual budgets of GOEs shall be presented to the Budget Office of the Federation for review, further to which they will be submitted to the National Assembly by Mr. President along with the national budget. GOEs shall no longer send their budgets directly to the National Assembly;

consideration and passage of budgets of GOEs shall going forward, be scheduled alongside the main budget of the Federal Government; and

agencies with capacities to be self-funding shall be categorised and removed from the National Budget. 

According to the circular, revenue departments to be manned by Professional Treasury Officers from the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation would be created within the GOEs.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, who signed the circular, said incentives will be included within these measures to encourage compliance. He also said the government will undertake legislative actions to amend sections of the acts establishing some GOEs to accommodate the newly announced procedures.

Some of the GOEs affected by these newly announced revenue-collecting measures are the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Nigerian Coal Corporation (NCC), Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Voice of Nigeria (VON), and National Communication Commission (NCC).

Nigerian Ports Authority. [PHOTO CREDIT: NigerianEye]

Others includes, Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Nigeria Maritime Management and Safety Authority (NIMASA), Nigeria Export Processing Zone Authority (NEPZA), Nigeria Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority (NOGFZA), Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET), Nigeria Aerospace Management Agency (NAMA), Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET), National Civil Aviation Authority, Nigeria Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO), National Housing Corporation of Nigeria (NHCN), Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Nigerian Gas Company (NGC), Nigerian Tourism Development Board (NTDB), Joint Admission and Matriculation Board JAMB), National Universities Commission (NUC), and Education Trust Fund (ETF).

DOWNLOAD FULL MEMO HEREChef Katsumura, daughter of the late, legendary Yoshi Katsumura, is known throughout the city as a pastry chef, but her savory work is virtually unknown (though she worked pastry and savory stations at Michelin-starred Entente). Yugen is her first head-chef position. Opposite her, the restaurants general manager and director of operations, Morgan Olszewski (daughter of owner Michael Olszewski) has an MBA, but this is her first foray into the restaurant business.The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday, arraigned two oil marketers, Yusuf Kwande and Osahon Asemota, in an Ikeja Special Offences Court for allegedly stealing 6.4 million metrics tonnes of Automated Gas Oil (AGO) worth $8.4million.

Messrs Kwande and Asemota were arraigned alongside an international oil and gas company  Trafigura Beheer BV, Trafigura PTE Ltd and their Nigerian associates- Mettle Energy and Gas, Renbrandt Ltd. and Jil Engineering and Oil Services Limited.

They, however, plead not guilty to the three-count charge of conspiracy, stealing and receiving stolen property proffered against them by the EFCC.

The EFCC accused the defendants of fraudulently converting the AGO at the office of Trafigura Beheer BV located at 20A Sinaro Daranijo Street, off Ligali Ayorinde Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Rotimi Jacobs, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and lead EFCC prosecution counsel, said the defendants committed the offences of stealing from October 22, 2008 to December 15, 2008.

Mr Jacobs said the stolen AGO, worth $8.4 million, was the property of Nadabo Energy Limited and was kept in the legal custody of the now defunct Spring Bank on Victoria Island.

He noted that the offences contravened Sections 383(1), 427 and 516 of the Criminal Code Law of 2004.

Following the defendants not guilty plea, counsel to the defendants sought to move their bail applications. But Mr Jacobs informed the court that three of the prosecution witnesses were present in court. He requested that the trial begin immediately.

How it allegedly happened

Emefun Etudo, the first prosecution witness and a former lawyer to Mr Asemota and his companies, explained to the court how the defendants allegedly connived to defraud Nadabo.

He said: Nadabo Energy is a contractor to Mobil and it was given a purchase order to supply 10,000 metrics tonnes of AGO to Mobil in 2008. Nadabo was given about $15 million by Spring Bank via a letter of offer dated Feb. 29, 2008, to effect this transaction.

At that time, Nadabo had license to import only 4,000 metrics tonnes and could not import this transaction with the license. So Nadabo called the sixth defendant ( Asemota), a veteran in the industry, to assist him because he has a tank farm at Apapa as well as a license.

They entered into an agreement dated March 31, 2008, and part of the agreement stated that the supply shall be made on behalf of Nadabo and all finances for the execution of the agreement shall be transferred by Nadabo to the agent.

Nadabo transferred the money in obedience to the agreement he had with the seventh defendant (Jil engineering and oil service limited). The transfer was made both in naira and dollars.

Mr Etudo said that the defendants never had an agreement to tamper with the complainants cargo and that the complainant always followed the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the parties to the agreement.

He further revealed to the court how the defendants defrauded Nadabo Energy, leading to the collapse of the now defunct Spring Bank.

There was a twist after money was transferred to Trafigura abroad. Mettle Energy and Gas, Renbrandt Limited and Osahon Asemota informed Nadabo that Mobil rejected the supply, they further told Nadabo that Mobil accepted 3,000 out of the 10,000 metrics tonnes.

The bank and Nadabo believed this and that was what we were made to believe until a case came up at Justice Ogunsanyas court and it was revealed that the supply was not rejected by Mobil but was stolen by the defendants and sold to who they want and shared the money.

Out of this disaster, the bank (Spring Bank) went down, EFCC was our first place of action and Trafigura was invited in a petition but the person that responded was Yusuf Kwande and he made statement to the EFCC.

The account officer of Asemota and Jil Engineering and Oil Service Ltd at Spring Bank was also invited and he made statement, he said.

The lawyer said that Mobil never rejected 7,000 metric tonnes of AGO as alleged by the defendants.

Mr Etudo noted that following the revelation, he personally investigated the claims of the defendants and unravelled more details about the alleged fraud.

I investigated all the vessels that took part in the operation in 2008, the first and most important vessel is the one that took cargo from Cotonou to Eket.

I discovered that the capacity of the vessel is 7,000 metric tonnes, I investigated another vessel owned by the sixth defendant and I discovered that the vessel is a slug vessel which is not supposed to be used to carry cargo.

I saw that the two cargos never went to Mobil depot in Eket, Asemota intercepted the vessel and collected 3,000 metrics tonnes from the vessel, he said.

Following the testimony of the witness, Mr Kwandes defence counsel, Taiwo Osipitan, a professor and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, urged the court to grant him bail in most liberal terms.

Obliging his request, Justice Mojisola Dada admitted the defendants to bail in the sum of N2 million with two substantial sureties in like sum.

She ordered that one of the sureties must be a landed property owner who must submit their title documents to the court adding that the defendant should deposit his international passport to the prosecution (EFCC).

Ms Dada also released Mr Kwande into the custody of Mr Osipitan, his counsel, pending the perfection of his bail conditions.

She, however, rejected the bail application of Osahon Asemota on the ground that the defendant had on previous occasions failed to submit himself to the court willingly for arraignment.

She ordered that Mr Asemota be remanded in prison and adjourned the case until December 10,11 and 13 for continuation of trial.

(NAN)An FCT High Court, Apo, on Monday, granted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) leave to arraign former petroleum minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke, and a former Chairman of Atlantic Energy Drilling company, Olajide Omokore, on February 25.

Mrs Alison-Madueke and Mr Omokore are to be arraigned on five counts bordering on conspiracy and illegal act of accepting and giving gratifications.

The trial judge, Valentine Ashi, granted the EFCC leave, after the prosecution counsel, Faruk Abdullahi, told the court that while investigations were ongoing, the former minister left the country and is currently in the UK.

Justice Ashi also ordered the EFCC to put its house in order.

The suspects are to be arraigned for allegedly accepting and giving a gift of properties described as penthouse 22, Block B, Admiralty Estate, Ikoyi, and penthouse 21, building 5, block C, Banana Island, Lagos.

The EFCC said the alleged offence contravened the provisions of Sections 26(1) and 17 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.

The prosecutor, Faruk Abdullahi, told the court that while investigations were ongoing, the former minister left the country and is currently in the United Kingdom.

He also said that upon invitation by the EFCC, Mrs Alison-Madueke refused to honour the invitation. He said there is a process in place to ensure she comes back to face trial.

The counsel to the second defendant, Tayo Adeniyo, told the court that his client was not served with the charges and his client was ready to clear his name.

NAN reports that on November 11, the EFCC confirmed that the process to bring back a former Minister of Petroleum, Alison-Madueke, from the United Kingdom has begun.

The acting spokesman of the commission, Tony Orilade, disclosed this in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.

According to Mr Orilade, EFCCs Operations Department had made a presentation to the Legal Department to commence the process, noting that the process has commenced.

He, however, said that the action had to be processed through the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, explaining that it was not something the commission could commence and conclude on its own.

It is ongoing. Within the next few weeks, the extent to which we have gone will be made known to the public.

It is not a fresh case; it is not a fresh petition that is just being looked into; the whole process is a total package.

This request to have Mrs Alison-Madueke repatriated to Nigeria is just an aspect of Diezanis investigation and commencement of trial, he said.

In 2017, a Federal High Court in Lagos ordered the final forfeiture of N7.6 billion alleged loot recovered from the former minister to the federal government.

Justice Abdulazeez Anka granted an application by the EFCC seeking the final forfeiture of the money to the government.

Granting the application, the judge had said: I have read the motion on notice seeking the final forfeiture of the sum of N7.6bn reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activity.

I have also gone through the affidavit in support of the application.

In the circumstances, I am of the view that the application has merit and is hereby granted as prayed. Parties have a right of appeal.

In October 2017, the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, had said that Nigeria had no immediate plan to bring Mrs Alison-Madueke back home to face trial.

Mrs Alison-Madueke, who is being investigated in the UK, had urged the federal government to have her repatriated to Nigeria to face corruption charges against her.

(NAN).A scandalous scene broke out at the headquarters of the State Security Service (SSS) on Monday, after a fraud suspect paraded by the secret police indicted top associates of President Muhammadu Buhari and his wife, Aisha.

During a press event to parade Amina Mohammed on Monday afternoon, SSS accused the woman, dark in complexion and about middle-age, of gaining unauthorized entries into the Presidential Villa over a period of time, during which she impersonated top government officials, including once identifying herself as the first lady of Kogi State.

Ms Mohammed, whose origin was not immediately learnt, had multiple access to the residence of First Lady Aisha Buhari, SSS spokesperson Peter Afunanya said at the presser.

Using her seemingly unrestrained access to the State House and several cover names, including Justina Oluoha and Amina Villa, Ms Mohammed was then able to cosy-up to persons close to power, including Alexander Chicason Okafor, whom she allegedly duped of up to N150 million in November 2017.

The fleece came in a deal which Ms Mohammed and Mr Okafor had on a government property that was placed on sale by the Presidential Implementation Committee on Lease of Federal Government Properties.

Ms Mohammeds unholy enterprise is not to the knowledge of Ms Buhari, the SSS concluded following its investigation.

Naming names

Although Ms Mohammed did not immediately deny SSS claims she obtained N150 million from Mr Okafor, the billionaire chairman of Chicason Group, a major logistics and oil and gas firm with dual-headquarters in Lagos and Abuja, she pleaded with Nigerians to ensure she does not suffer the consequences alone.

Ms Mohammed specifically mentioned she worked closely with Moriyatu, a sister of Mrs Buhari, and Babachir Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation who was fired for fraudulent diversion of funds meant for Nigerias internally-displaced victims of Boko Haram insurgency.

Ms Mohammed said Mr Okafor has been buying government properties for a long time, and he knew he had to bribe officials in order to be shortlisted as a potential buyer of an advertised property.

A spokesperson for Mr Okafor told PREMIUM TIMES he could not immediately comment for the businessman Monday afternoon.

Mr Lawal had been invited for questioning by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and the anti-graft office recently said criminal charges were ready to be filed in the matter.

Still, the case has not prevented Mr Lawal from organising high-level political events towards Mr Buharis reelection, neither has it dissuaded the president from associating with his scandal-plague associate.

A spokesperson for Mrs Buhari confirmed to PREMIUM TIMES Monday afternoon that Moriyatu is a sister to the first lady, but denied knowledge of the massive influence peddling affairs at the State House.

She is part of the family, Suleiman Haruna said of Moriyatu. But I do not have any details about whether she was involved in such a thing or not.

The SSS said Mrs Buhari was not in the country at the time Ms Mohammed was using her name to swindle persons in the corridors of power.

Investigation, investigation, investigation

The scandal comes less than three months after Mrs Buhari accused her security aide of dropping her name to receive humongous financial benefits from people seeking to curry favour at the top levels of Nigerias presidency.

The aide, who is a police officer, denied the allegations. His family alleged that Mrs Buhari was only throwing her aide under the bus after using him to amass illicit income since moving into the State House with her husband in 2015.

Identical elements could be deduced from Ms Mohammeds narration, especially on the claim that she was being singled out for punishment.

After initially frustrating attempts to be interviewed by a battery of reporters, Ms Mohammed ultimately opened up, saying she has been in SSS detention since first turning herself in four months ago.

SSS has been keeping me in this office for four months, she screamed to reporters in order to get some words across while being dragged back into the services secluded interrogation cubicle.

Mr Afunanya, however, denied that Ms Mohammed has been in detention for four months, saying she only turned herself in about the first week in November.

He added that she had been granted administrative bail and allowed to go report at the secret police on schedules.

Her cantankerous behaviour before the press further speaks to the dubious personality, the SSS spokesperson said.

Asked repeatedly by PREMIUM TIMES whether Ms Mohammed mentioned Mr Lawal and Mrs Buhari as her co-conspirators during interrogation and what was done to determine the veracity of her claim, Mr Afunanya said the matter was under investigation.

He also could not immediately say whether Ms Mohammed was a player in a syndicate, and similarly rebuffed all other questions about the scandalous affair.

A storied office

The office of Nigerias first lady, although not constitutionally or administratively recognised, has long been a major feature of presidential tenures, and with it have come multiple financial scandals.

During successive military juntas between mid-1980s and late 1990s, wives of heads of state were known to have been involved in unbridled lavishness, aided largely by questionable wealth they often hit upon assumption of office.

The culture dovetailed when Nigeria returned to civil rule in 1999, with unconscionable opulence often associated with first ladies in a country consistently ranked amongst the top poorest in the world.

The exit of Patience Jonathan as Nigerias first lady in 2015 was characterised by allegations of corruption. Anti-graft agents said they discovered billions in questionable and primitive accumulation of wealth during a cursory look into her finances.

One of the accounts of Ms Jonathan frozen by the EFCC had over $15 million in it.

Ms Jonathan strongly denied all allegations of fraud, saying she inherited from her late mother who was a petty trader while the rest came as gifts from some of her husbands associates.

Many of the discoveries are still subject to ongoing judicial proceedings.The Nigerian government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have been at loggerheads since 2009. Over that period, agreements and promises were made but broken and university education has been left to haemorrhage.

At the centre of the dispute between the two parties are poor funding of public universities, and alleged plan by the federal government to introduce tuition fees and an education bank. The university teachers also complained about non-implementation of previous agreements.

Between 1999 and 2018, PREMIUM TIMES checks revealed ASUU had gone on strike for over 40 months  a grim reality that the federal government says it wants to turn into a forgettable past.

In February 2017, the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, constituted a committee to engender sustainable peace, industrial harmony in tertiary institutions and resolve impending issues.

The 16-member Federal Government/Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) 2009 Agreement Renegotiation Committee, has as chairman Wale Babalakin, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

Among the members are M.M. Jibril, Pro-Chancellor, Federal University, Lafia; Nimi Briggs, Pro-Chancellor, Federal University, Lokoja; Gbemisola Saraki, Pro-Chancellor, Federal University, Otuoke; and Lawrence Ngbale, Pro-Chancellor, Federal University, Birnin Kebbi.

The team was asked to interface with the university-based labour unions  the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT)  over the contents of the agreement the unions reached with government in 2009.

But in August this year, ASUU described Mr Babalakin as a stumbling block in the renegotiation process and called for the suspension of the committee.

The union on August 7 said the renegotiation had collapsed over the alleged arrogance of Mr Babalakin, who it said to had made a mockery of the renegotiation process.

ASUU president, Biodun Ogunyemi, alleged that Mr Babalakin did not relate with the union as a negotiator but as a judge. He was always trying to overrule, he alleged.

According to Mr Ogunyemi, Mr Babalakin dismissed ASUUs report. That kind of person cannot be a negotiator because he believes that his opinion should be superior. Thats not a good trait of a good negotiator and thats unbecoming of him. Dr Wale Babalakin has an ideological position in terms of how to fund Nigerian education.

We identified many sources on how to fund education. We talked about leakages in tax collections and brought examples. We talked about corruption and we documented. We talked about Alumni contribution, we talked about consultancy. The only one we did not agree on was on the issue of tuition fee, the ASUU president said.

His ideological position has translated to his difference with ASUU. Babalakin has not been telling the truth about what he was doing at the negotiating table. On the issue of Education Bank, fact was produced and we told him it cannot work in Nigeria. We produced a document where wrote on Government failure to fulfil its obligation for seven years when we once tried it.

Explaining the unions stand on funding education and the proposal for the Education Bank, Mr Ogunyemi said We showed that if every student is given a loan of N1 million and N700, 000 to universities, is that realistic? He initially denied that he never said students will pay tuition fee but when we presented fact, he could no longer talk.

Mr Ogunyemi said Mr Babalakin should be penalised for misinforming the government and public. He said the negotiation team chairman was representing private interest and using government platform and wanted to use government money to boost private business.

We dont take the issue of criminality very serious and thats why banks will continue to collapse and people who caused it will remain in politics. Thats our issue with Babalakin, he said.

On the no work no pay directive in which the federal government recently said vice-chancellors of federal universities must ensure that members of ASUU who are currently on strike are not paid their salaries, Mr Ogunyemi said the directive is not new.

He said the union is committed to making a sacrifice to rescue public education and restore the integrity of a university degree in Nigeria.

 Although, we learnt that the circular has been withdrawn. They have enough information on what our demands are and they know they are for the future of the country. Our work is in three folds. We are to teach, do research and use the result to contribute to community demand. So our advocacy for improved education to transform Nigeria is the third leg of our service.

We didnt go far with the meetings. We have a meeting on Tuesday with the Ministry of Education and we hope to hear from them tomorrow if we get their invitation. Students should, however, be asking Government when they will go back to school.

Meanwhile, Mr Babalakin had earlier explained areas where his committee disagreed with the striking university lecturers. The lawyer said his team and ASUU were in agreement on the need for improved education funding but differed on where the funding should come from

Mr Babalakin on November 10 said he believed Nigerians deserve quality education and that this must not be compromised as a result of inadequate funding, which he said has been the situation in the last 30 years.

He debunked the allegations that his team suggested a fee hike in universities, explaining that the committees scope of work had nothing to do with fees payable in schools.

Unfortunately, we are compelled to respond to the allegations by ASUU which have been made severally in the print and electronic media because some Nigerians may begin to believe the inaccurate narratives that have been consistently provided by ASUU.

Our position as a team is that Nigerians deserve and should have quality education. This must not be compromised as a result of inadequate funding which has been the situation in the last 30 years, he concluded.

All effort to get a response from two of the committee members, Messrs Briggs and Bamiro, were unsuccessful as they did not respond to calls and messages to their known telephone numbers.The Nigerian Army has again compelled the postponement of a lawsuit over the dismissal of military officers in 2016.

Following the controversial sack of over 30 military officers, including some generals, without facing a panel of investigation into their alleged offences as required by law, the officers filed various applications, asking the National Industrial Court to nullify their dismissal.

While a number of the applications are progressing in the court, some have been frustrated by the army, after reaching the expected date of judgement.

In one of the motions brought by a dismissed colonel, Mohammed Suleiman, the Nigerian Army was punished at the last adjourned date for failing to provide its defence witness, without good reason.

The court ordered the army to pay a fine of N20, 000 for making unacceptable excuses for the absence of its witness, after the applicant counsel, Olayinka Adedeji notified the court of the witness was in town, contrary to a claim by the defence that their witness was not in Abuja.

When the matter resumed on Monday, the lawyer representing the army informed the court that the expected witness, Captain Goni, had been posted to Monguno in Borno State.

The lawyer, who introduced himself as I. I. Igele, asked the court for a further adjournment to allow his client attend the trial.

Mr Igele, who said he was representing another lawyer, Moses Ukachukwu informed the court about his recent application for extended time, dated November, 30.

He explained that the reason for the application is because of the recent posting of his witness and in order to allow for time during which Captain Goni will attend the hearing and testify.

In a response, Mr Suleimans lawyer, Olayinka Adedeji confirmed knowledge of the witness transfer, but added that the current application cannot be brought by the defence, since they have failed in complying with the order for the payment of fine, which was made in October.

Ms Adedeji recalled the situation which resulted in the court order for the army to pay a fine of N20, 000 and added that the posting document seen by the applicants team has shown that the defence witness was indeed in Abuja during the date of the previous adjournment.

My Lord, the application of for extended time. But they cannot bring such an application until they have complied with the orders of this court.

I recall saying during the last sitting in October that the witness, Captain Goni is seated at the office and his car parked at the parking lot.

I have seen the document showing the details of the posting of the defence witness and it shows that he was only posted on November, 5.

Ms Adedeji than asked the court to foreclose the defence team on the grounds that they were allegedly acting with the motive to delay the trial unnecessarily.

My Lord we shall be asking the court to foreclose the defence. Whenever they have another witness, they can bring the witness and make an application and the application will be considered in line with the new witness.

In a short ruling however the court, presided over by a judge, Sanusi Kado, said it would grant the requested adjournment to ensure fair hearing for both parties.

The court said the submission of parties including Ms Adedeji had shown that the witness was indeed transferred and it would therefore be unfair for the court to neglect the recent developments regarding the said witness.

The court adjourned till February 26, for further hearing.The students of National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) have accused the school of extortion after the institution announced a N20,000 fee per course to remark their missing examination scripts.

According to the announcement on its website, the school will set up a three man committee to re-mark the scripts after receiving the payment.

The 3 Man Committee will be made up of the Head of Unit and two other experts other than those that marked the Script initially. Re- marking shall be completed within two weeks and returned to the University Examinations Committee by the School, the school said.

The new score awarded shall be approved by the Dean of the School on behalf of the Schools Academic Board which brings it to the notice of the University Examinations Committee.

The school, however, failed to justify the N20, 000 fee it made mandatory for the students.

Expressing their dismay and disappointment at the ugly development, students from centres including Community Study Centre in Awa-Ijebu, NOUN Special Study Centre for the Nigerian Army, study centres in Ibadan, Gombe, Dutse, Bauchi, Sokoto, Oyo, Osogbo and Lagos told PREMIUM TIMES that the non-release of results affect mostly students who rounded up their undergraduate programme with the institution in July 2018.

One of the students in Community Study Centre in Emevor, Delta States who spoke with our reporter said the withheld results have caused setbacks in the academic pursuit of intending graduates of the school.

We have been on this since October. We wrote to the university as regards our withheld result. Rather than respond on necessary steps to take, we only realised that the school made an announcement on its portal, an unfriendly one. I have finished and submitted my project but could not find the result, the student said.

Another student at the Osogbo Centre, Mutiu Alimi, told our correspondent that the institution refused to give reasonable reasons on why they are charging the students to re-mark their scripts.

For the university not to have seen my script after writing exam sounds ridiculous. Asking Student to pay N20, 000 makes the case worse. We hope the public can help demand justice from the university.

Another student, who simply identified herself as Queen, said: the best I can think of now is how the university will listen to our plea. I dont have any money. I followed the laid down procedure to communicate my plight. If this issue is not attended to, many of us risks extra year as the opportunity to re-register the course closed since October.

A student of Computer Science at the Marina centre in Lagos said: My result CIIT411, CIT425, CIT427 and CIT445 are not compiled. So, I have to pay N80, 000 to solve the issue. This is sad.

Efforts by PREMIUM TIMES to seek clarification on what the payment is meant for, from the University, were unsuccessful as all telephone numbers provided on the schools portal did not go through.

Also, the emails sent to the university were also not replied a week after.A Federal High Court in Lagos, on Monday, adjourned judgment in a motion, seeking final forfeiture of N2.2 billion recovered from a former Chief of Air Staff, Adesola Amosu.

The suit which was earlier fixed for judgment on Monday was further adjourned following the absence of Justice Mojisola Olatoregun, who is said to be attending a seminar

A new date would be communicated to the parties.

NAN reports that the court had issued an interim order of forfeiture of the sum, on June 14 following an exparte motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

An exparte application is filed by a party against another without the latter being present to defend itself in court.

Joined as respondents in the suit are Mr Amosu and a company, Solomon Enterprises Ltd.

The commission had argued that the sums were reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.

Justice Olatoregun had also issued an interim order for temporary forfeiture of N190 million recovered from a former Air Force Director of Finance and Budget, Olugbenga Gbadebo.

The court had further ordered a temporary forfeiture of N101 million recovered from Solomon Enterprises, a company linked to Mr Amosu.

The judge had then directed the EFCC to publish the interim orders in two national dailies, for the respondents or any interested party to show the reason why a final order of forfeiture should not be made.

On November 12, Rotimi Oyedepo who appeared for the EFCC had moved his motion for final forfeiture of the money,

On the other hand, Norrison Quakers, who appeared for an interested party in the suit (Jacob Adigun), and Bolaji Ayorinde who appeared for the respondents, had respectively moved their various applications before the court.

After listening to the respective counsel, Mr Olatoregun then adjourned for judgment.

In a counter affidavit deposed to by an EFCC operative, Mr Danladi, the commission alleged that while in office, the respondents diverted huge sums of money from the Nigerian air force accounts, to purchase properties both within and outside the country.

He said that Mr Amosu who was appointed Chief of Staff on January 16, 2014, had in the course of his service, received budgetary provisions in the sum of N4.5 billion, from Patrick Akpobolokemi, the then Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

The sum was said to be for Maritime Security Support, pursuant to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Nigerian Air Force and NIMASA.

The Commission averred that part of the money was utilised by the respondent for personal gains.

(NAN)A Federal High Court in Lagos will on December 19 continue the trial of a former acting director-general of NIMASA, Haruna Jauro.

The case which was scheduled for continuation of trial on Monday, could not proceed as planned because the court did not sit.

Mr Jauro is standing trial over alleged N304 million fraud. The charge was preferred by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He assumed leadership of NIMASA  Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency  after its erstwhile Director-General, Patrick Akpobolokemi.

Mr Jauro was charged along with one Dauda Bawa and Thlumbau Enterprises Ltd., on a 19-count charge bordering on theft, fraudulent conversion of NIMASAs property to private use and money laundering.

They were accused of committing the offences in NIMASA from January 2014 to September 2015.

They were arraigned on April 12, 2016, but pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The court admitted them to bail in the sum of N5 million each with two sureties each in like sum.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the prosecution had since closed its case after conclusion of a trial-within-trial ordered by the court at the instance of the defence.

The defence, thereafter, opened its case and is still bringing witnesses for evidence.

At the last adjourned date, on November 12, defence counsel, Olalekan Ojo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, informed the court that the second Prosecution Witness (PW2), who he intended to recall for evidence, was absent in court.

The PW2 is a staff member of NIMASA.

Citing various judicial and statutory authorities, Mr Ojo told the court that the defence was at liberty to recall a witness who had been called by the prosecution.

According to him, the witness was unable to attend court due to some circumstances.

In response, prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, argued that Section 256 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law provided that the court could even call a witness already called by prosecution.

He, however, said that the defence had not brought any formal application before the court to that effect, adding that there must be a valid application before the court.

Mr Oyedepo claimed that the defence was attempting to stall trial.

The judge, Mojisola Olatoregun, ruled that defence counsel should file a formal application.

(NAN)Four tenants, who allegedly exhumed the corpse of their landlord before selling his property, were on Monday brought in a Yaba Chief Magistrates Court in Lagos.

The three accused men and a woman are  Silifatu Abisile, 60; Jimoh Abisile, 52; Gbade Bakare, 56; and Isaiah Bakare, 45.

The accused are facing a five-count charge of conspiracy, kidnapping, breach of peace, forgery and false assumption of authority.

The police prosecutor, Williams Ologun, told the court that the accused committed the offences on November 1 at Ishola Daniel str., in Oshodi area of Lagos.

Mr Ologun alleged that the accused had conspired to illegally sell the house they were living in, which did not belong to them.

He said that a prospective buyer had insisted they relocated the grave that was in front of the house before he would make payments.

My Lord, they forged an exhumation of corpse permit from Oshodi -Isolo Local Government and dug the corpse of the house owner, Sumonu Bakare, who was buried in the compound.

They also kidnapped the only son of the deceased; Gbenro Bakare, who is crippled, thinking he was the only surviving child of the deceased, he said.

Mr Ologun said that the first and second accused were relations of the deceased, while the third and fourth accused were long time tenants on the property.

He said that the third and fourth accused had registered for change of name to Bakare, which was not their real names, claiming to be the children of the deceased.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the offences contravened Sections76 (1) [c], 168 (1) [d], 271 (1), 365 and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

They, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The chief magistrate, Peter Ojo, granted the accused bail in the sum of N500,000 each with two sureties each in like sum.

In his ruling, Mr Ojo insisted that one of each accused sureties must be a blood relation and must be resident within the courts jurisdiction.

He said each of the sureties must also show evidence of three years tax payment to the Lagos State Government and be gainfully employed.

Mr Ojo adjourned the case until January 10 for trial.

(NAN)Three political parties, on Monday, approached the Federal High Court, Abuja seeking an order of the court to stop President Muhammadu Buhari from assenting to the Electoral Amendment Bill 2018.

The three political parties are: Advanced Peoples Democratic Alliance, (APDA), Allied Peoples Movement, (APM) and Movement for Restoration and Defence of Democracy, (MRDD).

They also want a declaration of the court that assenting the bill would truncate the 2019 general election.

Counsel to the plaintiff, Dapo Otitoju, who filed the process on behalf of his clients told reporters that they had two questions for the court to determine.

Whether the president can proceed to assent the Electoral Act amendment bill 2018, forwarded to him by the National Assembly to be used to conduct the 2019 general election when there is no adequate time for the manifestion of the proposed act.

Whether assenting to the Electoral Amendment Bill 2018, now will not truncate the Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) from ensuring proper conduct of the 2019 general election.

This, according to the plaintiffs, is considering the fact that the notice of election was initiated in line with the Electoral Act 2010 as amended.

In an affidavit in support of the originating summons, Shitu Kabir, presidential candidate of APDA, deposed that the existing act had been used by political parties to conduct primaries into political elective offices for 2019.

Mr Kabir further deposed that amending the act that had been used for primary elections in preparation for the 2019 general elections would engender confusion in the electoral process.

According to him, assenting the bill will truncate the electoral process which has already began.

I know as a fact that the bill will provide for electronic transmission of results from polling unit to collation centres.

I know that there is no way the electorate who are not educated in this area can assimilate the act of electoral voting and transmission in less than two months to the general elections.

As a candidate, I know as a fact that the level of education of the generality of the electorate is very low and they will be confused and this may lead to them being disenfranchised.

That proper voters education and demonstration of electronic voting system is required to be done in all 36 states of the federation, the FCT and the 774 local government areas before such a bill can be introduced to the electoral process.

The plaintiffs, however, said that they were not against the bill or the president giving his assent.

They maintained that they were only asking that assent to the bill should be withheld until after the 2019 elections to avoid manipulation of the process.

The suit which also has the Senate President, the Speaker, House of Representatives, the INEC Chairman and the Attorney-General of the Federation as defendants has however, not been assigned to a judge.

(NAN)Ive been trying to go out to dinner more often, for inspiration, Izard said, and I went to Eleven Madison Park (in New York)  not that Ill be able to do what theyre doing, but it made me want to do a tasting menu. Its nice to give my chefs something different to do. Its another creative outlet for us.Some concerned Nigerians have appealed to the National Assembly to immediately transmit the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Bill to President Muhammadu Buhari for his assent.

The International Ford Fellowship Program Alumni Association Nigeria (IFPAAN) and an association of people living with disabilities (PLWD) made the appeal on Monday on the occasion of the World International Disabilities Day celebrated December 3.

A senator, Francis Alimikhena, sponsored the bill in 2015 at the Eighth National Assembly and it was passed and later in 2016 harmonised by both the Senate and House of Representatives. Unfortunately, it is yet to be sent to President Buhari to sign it into law.

Speaking on this development, the President of IFPAAN, Obo Effanga, in a statement he issued in commemoration of the disabilities day, said the law will go a long way in protecting the rights of people living with disabilities in Nigeria.

Mr Effanga said the law will benefit over 25 million people in the country living with disabilities.

In line with the theme for this years celebration of the day, Empowering Persons with Disabilities and Ensuring Inclusiveness and Equality, Mr Effanga said the law will protect persons with disabilities against discrimination and stigmatisation, and ensure their inclusion in everyday activities in Nigeria.

We the Ford Alumni in Nigeria join numerous groups in the country to urge the National Assembly to speedily transmit the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Bill 2018 to the president. We are also using this medium to call on the president to assent the bill, he said.

Mr Effanga said IFPAAN was dismayed by the delay and rigmarole that have characterised the passage of the bill since 2000.

He said this should not exceed the 18th year of the agitation for the law, more so that Nigeria has signed and ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

Recognising that no nation can fully develop without developing her people with disabilities, we ask that everyone concerned with the transmission and assent of the Disabilities Bill should do the needful henceforth without further delay, he said.

Speaking in a similar vein, the Chairman of PLWD in Kogi State, Ibrahim Aromeh, in a telephone interview with PREMIUM TIMES said the bill is very important as the pillar of support for the people living with disabilities in the country

Mr Aromeh said the delay in passing the law has been having a negative implication on the health of members who he said are constantly discriminated against in communities and also stigmatised.

He said the bill would facilitate the inclusion and acceptance of people living with disabilities into the society, as they have to constantly fight to be included.

Ordinarily, we do not need to pray for the bill to be signed. The bill is about something that protects our right in society and also makes provisions for our everyday lives. If this bill is not assented to, it is like we have no room to lay our heads.

The bill makes provision for so many things to better our lives; from education to health care to participation in the society, among others. As we celebrate today, we expect that the bill should have been signed as this would have added more colour to our celebration, he said.

Mr Aromeh said until the bill is signed by the president, Nigerians will keep on stigmatising and marginalising people with disabilities and they would not be able to fight back because they have no legal backing to do so.

The presidents signing of the bill will serve as a legal backing for us to fight for our rights within the society. It will also give us the opportunities to fight for inclusion and ask for better services especially in the health and education sector where we are often been treated as second citizens.

Mr Aromeh said they are asking for inclusion and not separate schools for people with disabilities, as that on its own is stigmatisation. Until the bill is passed there can be no adjustment. The existing schools should accommodate both those living with disabilities and others.

There should be mechanism but in place for such. So also the healthcare centres should provide mechanisms for the disables to access health care services and at ease and not to be treated shabbily by health workers who believe we are burdens, he said.

The battle for the enactment of the law in Nigeria began during the Olusegun Obasanjo administration in 2000. But 18 years after, the bill is yet to see the light of the day.

Some provisions of the Bill

The bill is meant to restore the dignity of persons with disabilities within the society.

It provides for their right to have access to public premises, accessibility aids at public buildings, access to roads and side walk, protection against risk and human emergencies as well as prohibition of being used to beg for alms.

Unfortunately, most of these have not been implemented because of the lack of laws to back them up. Most public buildings in the country do not make provision for wheelchair users.

Also, the law provides for the right to free education, free healthcare, and prohibition from segregation, right to work and employment and provision of special communication at hospitals.

This bill further provides for participation in politics and a national commission to address complaints of harassment, discrimination and harmful practices against persons with disabilities.Lawyers have spoken on the suit filed by some political parties to stop President Muhammadu Buhari from signing into law the 2018 Electoral Bill transmitted to him by the National Assembly in October.

Three political parties on Monday approached the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court with a motion seeking to bar the president from assenting to the bill.

The Advanced People Democratic Alliance (APDA), Allied People Movement (APM), and the Movement for Restoration and Defence for Democracy (MRDD) asked the court to determine whether Mr Buharis assent to the bill, which is expected on or before December 7, will not truncate the forthcoming 2019 general elections.

The bill was sent to Mr Buhari on November 8 after its passage by the National Assembly in October. It has attracted the attention of legal and political analysts who said the lawmakers may invoke section 58 (5) of the Constitution to veto Mr Buharis position if he fails to sign the bill, 30 days after it was sent to him.

The president is expected to give assent to the bill within 30 days of receipt. If he fails to do so, he will be deemed to have refused assent and in which case the bill returns to the National Assembly who is empowered by section 58 (5) of the Constitution to either veto the President by confirming the bill as a law or resend the bill to the president after taking into consideration the presidents objections to the bill, said Inebehe Effiong, a lawyer and national legal adviser of another political party, the African Action Congress.

However, in the current application, the three political parties are asking the court to examine the bill, in relation to the 2010 Electoral Act, which the group described as the document already in use by the electoral umpire, INEC for preparation towards the 2019 general election.

According to a lawyer representing the applicants, Adekunle Otitoju, they approached the court because they view the 2018 Electoral Act as a chaotic development that will adversely affect the outcome of the 2019 general elections.

We are in court because of the 2018 amended bill that is lying before Mr President. What we are saying is that we have an existing 2010 Electoral Act that has begun the process of the forthcoming election, Mr Otitoju said.

Notice of election has been given on the basis of the 2010 amended bill and now; in less than three months to the elections, this new bill has been sent to the President.

There is no way that a new bill that is seeking for us to kickstart electronic voting will be good for an election that is less than three months. The bill should have been sent, maybe a year or two before now, he added.

Also addressing journalists at the court premises, one of the applicants, Shittu Kabir, the presidential candidate for APDA said the 2018 Electoral Bill, if passed into law, will have an adverse effect on smaller parties, as well as on the election umpire.

If this bill is introduced now; INEC has not trained its staff for full electronic transmission, the electorate are not conversant with the system. We have not been able to educate our voters, Mr Kabir said.

Proper voter education for the electronic voting system is required to be done in all states of the federation, the 774 local government and in the FCT. Proceeding with this bill will only cause chaos and confusion among the electorates, he added.

The political parties, however, said they were not against Mr Buharis assent to the bill, but would prefer that the bill is approved after the 2019 elections.

In a reaction, however, Mr Effiong described the current application as laughable, provocative and ridiculous.

If the 30 days window is still open and some people are going to court, then that is laughable. It is extremely ridiculous and provocative. Because what they are doing now is to give the president grounds to say: No I will not sign it, the case is in court.

As a legal adviser of a contesting political party; I dont know how a party that is interested in a free, fair election will advocate a suspension of assent to such a bill. I dont mean to be speculative, but it does appear as if this applicants are playing the bidding of some people in government, Mr Effiong said.

Also offering a similar opinion, another lawyer, Bria Okonkwo, said the bill can only result in a positive outcome for the 2019 elections.

I am of the opinion that the new Electoral Act will not only ensure a free and fair election but will also help reduce to the minimum level of cases of electoral fraud and violence which has often characterised elections in this part of the world, Ms Okonkwo told PREMIUM TIMES in a telephone interview on Monday.

PREMIUM TIMES had reported how a human rights lawyer and senior advocate of Nigeria, Olisa Agbakoba, questioned the delay in the assent to the bill and noted the need for Nigerians to be acquainted with its provisions.

We are concerned that the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2018 has not been signed into law three months into the general election despite of the fact that it has long been transmitted by the National Assembly, the lawyer wrote.

The Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2018 is the legal regime for the 2019 election. It is therefore important that every person is familiar with its provisions.The absence of a prosecution witness, Hussein Okpetu, has stalled the ongoing trial of Maryam Sanda, who allegedly killed her husband, Bilyamin Bello.

Mr Okpetu was to serve as the sixth prosecution witness to be presented to the court.

Ms Sanda was charged for the murder Mr Bello, a son of former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairman, Haliru Bello. The accused was charged alongside her mother, Maimuna Aliyu; her brother, Aliyu Sanda; and their house-help, Sadiya Aminu.

Mr Bello died in November last year.

On Monday, the prosecution counsel, Fidelis Ogbegbe, presented to the court Josephine Onyentu, to testify in court in place of the absent witness, Mr Okpetu.

According to Mr Ogbegbe, the transfer of Mr Okpetu to Ondo State police command made Ms Onyentu to replace him in court since she was part of the investigation team.

But the defence counsel, Olusegun Jolawo, said it is not right for a witness who is not mentioned to testify

Citing Section 379 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, Mr Jolawo said it is mandatory for any witness who is to give evidence to have a statement.

Responding Mr Ogbegbe said: My lord, the said police officer is part of the investigation team that investigated the case. She was sent here today because Mr Okpetu has been transferred to the Ondo State police command.

But since this observation has been raised, I need a date to enable me to get in touch with him, so that he would be around on the next adjourned date.

The judge, Yusuf Halilu, after listening to both counsel, said: the defence has made a concrete observation which is in accordance to the law and I cannot overrule that, so choose a date and do the needful.

You cannot just bring any witness to court to come and testify without a written statement, most especially in criminal cases.

Mr Halilu added that what the witness comes to testify in court is a summary of what is in the statement.

Mr Halilu thereby dismissed Ms Onyentu and adjourned the matter to January 22, 2019.

Ms Sanda and the other accused are facing a two-count charge for the alleged offence.

The charge was brought pursuant to sections 221 and 167 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and Penal Code respectively.

Ms Sanda is accused in the first charge of allegedly stabbing her husband of two years multiple times with the aim of killing him. The offence is punishable with death.Nigerias main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, on Monday, flagged off his campaign in Sokoto appealing that the residents vote in one of their own as president.

He also told the crowd at the rally ground that he is a Jack of all trades, who has the experience to revive the nations economy.

Mr Abubakar stated this while flagging off the North-west presidential campaign rally at the race course field in Sokoto.

Im a Jack of all trades. I did almost all the businesses in this world. Im a farmer, a businessman and a civil servant, he said. I did everything in search of wealth, for this reason, among the presidential candidates, no one can help the youth better than myself.

He also subtly whipped up tribal sentiments when he told the gathering that he is a full-fledged Fulani man who deserves their support.

My great grand parents are from Wurno, Sokoto state. I can prove myself by speaking Fulfulde to you now, Mr Abubakar said. I am Atiku Abubakar, your brother, a Fulani man. I present to you myself. Im seeking to be Nigerian president, please vote for me. Dont trust anybody to come and deceive you, he added in Fulfude.

He then explained that the 2019 election is going to be about fighting poverty, hunger, unemployment and disunity among Nigerians.

Mr Abubakar, who said he came from a poor background said: Today Im a somebody and I assure you, you too can be whatever you want to be if youre determined.

He also took a swipe at his main opponent, President Muhammadu Buhari.

Dont let those whose cows for years are only 150 to come and lie to you. My cows are more than thousands, he said. Be mindful of those deceivers, liars and cheats, theres nothing Nigeria needs more than to make sure that the youth and the poor are empowered, he added.

The national chairman of the PDP, Uche Secondus, at the rally warned the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure free and fair elections.

He said the crowd at the rally was a clear indication that PDP is winning the general election.

Atiku Abubakar Presidential rally in Sokoto

Also at the event, Mr Secondus presented the party flags to Mr Abubakar and governorship candidates in the North-west.

Those that attended the rally include former president, Goodluck Jonathan; ex-vice president, Namadi Sambo; Senate President Bukola Saraki, Speaker Yakubu Dogara, former PDP governors and some serving governors.Deji Adeyanju, a political activist who was arrested by the Nigerian police on November 28, was released from a federal prison in Keffi on Monday  but was re-arrested by a police team which had laid a siege around the correctional facility, his associates have told PREMIUM TIMES.

He was released on Monday afternoon after we met his bail conditions, Ariyo-Dare Atoye, his long-time associate, told PREMIUM TIMES Monday night. We are now aware that they are plotting to charge him on allegations of aiding terrorism on social media.

Mr Atoye identified the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, as the author of the petition, but PREMIUM TIMES could not independently corroborate this as of 8:30 p.m. Monday.

Mr Adeyanju was leading a protest against partisan conduct of top security chiefs ahead of Nigerias general election next February when he was arrested.

Before the November 28 protest that dispersed with his arrest by a police team, Mr Adeyanju had led demonstrations outside major foreign diplomatic missions in Abuja, saying in his complaints that Nigerias future could be on the brink should security chiefs be allowed to continue in their current partisan posturing.

The police denied Mr Adeyanjus allegations that they were working to ensure the reelection President Muhammadu Buhari, even if it involves upturning the will of the majority through rigging of ballots.

They arraigned him late Monday afternoon before Karshi Chief Magistrates Court on the outskirts of the nations capital, alongside two others who were said to have taken part in the protest.

Daniel Abobama and Boma Williams were released from Keffi Prison on Monday afternoon, hours before Mr Adeyanju regained his temporary freedom from the same facility.

Following his re-arrest, Mr Adeyanju was moved to the Abuja police command headquarters, Mr Atoye said, amidst uncertainties over his fate.

We are expecting him to either be arraigned tomorrow, be released on administrative bail or be kept in perpetual custody under the pretext of continuous investigation, Mr Atoye said. This does not bode well for our democracy.

Abuja police commissioner Bala Ciroma told PREMIUM TIMES he could not immediately comment on Mr Adeyanjus matter, but said a police spokesperson would be detailed to issue a statement on it later.

A spokesperson for the Nigerian Army did not return requests for comments about the petition from Mr Buratai.

Mr Adeyanjus detention has continued to draw stern condemnation from rights groups and individuals, and many Nigerians also see it as a descent into brazen abuse of power reminiscent of the dark days of military dictatorship.

Foremost rights group, Amnesty International, said Mr Adeyanju has a right to protest, especially in a constitutional republic like Nigeria, warning that his continued incarceration could further deteriorate Nigerias appalling human rights records.Unless Africa uses modern technologies, our farmers output will remain low and we will remain dependent on others to feed us. These were the words of Akinwunmi Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank, underscoring the importance and potential of the agricultural sector in sustaining the people and the African economy.

His statement reinforces the fact that investments in agriculture are the best weapons against hunger and poverty, translating to an improvement in the lives of millions of people.

The Nigerian Governments focus on diversifying the economy has led to an increased interest and elevation of the agricultural sector.

Against this backdrop Oando and its Joint Venture (JV) Partners, Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) and the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), have invested in improving agricultural practices in Nigeria.

Oando and its JV Partners, on Saturday the 1st of December, held the 22nd edition of its annual Green River Project (GRP) / Farmers Day celebration in Igbo-ogene Bayelsa State.

In addition to creating the much needed awareness on the importance of agriculture in spearheading the socio-economic development and economic diversification of the country, particularly in the Niger Delta, the initiative aims to make agriculture an attractive and accessible sector to the youth and women through the use of modern farming techniques, formation of cooperative societies and access to micro-credit schemes and provision of the necessary support and tools.

The Farmers Day initiative, which has recorded many successes;at the start took a lot of convincing to get the farmers acceptance of the project.

Communities had hitherto blamed oil exploration activities for their poor harvest which in truth was as a result of poor farming techniques and seedlings. Today the initiatives success story is further validation that oil and agriculture can co-exist harmoniously and boost the countrys growth if given the requisite attention both by the Government and the private sector.

Oando and its JV Partners have distributed over 2,711,536 fish fingerlings, 37,669 cassava bundles, 200,563 plantain suckers, 400,051 maize seeds and 87,003 seed yam to the GRP farmers. In 2017 they trained over 5000 women and youth in various vocational skills and 275 youth in Agro skills acquisition, following its mantra to leave a lasting positive impact on its host communities.

Speaking on the need to awaken to the potential of the agricultural sector, President Muhammadu Buhari, through a video recording played at the event said: Agriculture is the only way we can feed ourselves in a sustainable manner. Active participation in agriculture is our patriotic duty. It will create millions of jobs in the future. We cannot keep feeding ourselves with imported food when God has blessed us with natural resources, we cannot continue to create jobs abroad at the expense of young, energetic, willing and able youth. He further encouraged farmers who experienced a bad harvest as a result of the floods.

He said:  dont be dispirited, strive through the challenges. There is a compensation package for all affected farmers and fishermen. I want to assure all affected farmers we will help them. We the Government are with you.

To support the agricultural sector, the Federal Government through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) guaranteed a total of N1,422.4 million to 12,524 farmers under the Agricultural Credit Guarantee Scheme (ACGS) in the third quarter of 2018.

According to the CBNs third quarter report, The amount represented an increase of 53.1% and 6.5% above the levels in the preceding quarter and the corresponding period of 2017, respectively. The report went on to state that Analysis by state showed that 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory benefited from the Scheme with the highest and lowest sums of N210.8 million (14.8%) and N0.9 million (0.1%) guaranteed to Adamawa and Bayelsa states, respectively.

Hence the onus lies on private companies in states such as Bayelsa that received the least amount to boost the agricultural sector.

Through initiatives such as the Farmers Day celebration it is evident that Oando and its JV partners acknowledge the untiring efforts shown by farmers in providing sustenance for the countrys ever-growing population, providing raw materials to the nations industries, and contributing substantially to the nations foreign exchange earnings.

To further motivate farmers to strive beyond their comfort zone and embrace farming as a means of livelihood, sustenance as well as boost economic performance, the JV issued awards to farmers in various categories such as overall best farmer land; overall best farmer swamp; overall best school; overall best youth cooperative society land area; overall best women cooperative society and the NAOC GRP farmer of the year which was bagged by Dr. Victor Akujuro.

The ceremony was capped by performances from cultural dance groups; popular artiste, Duncan Mighty, and a tour of the GRP facility to see food stuffs grown and sold by the farmers.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Operating Officer, Oando Energy Resources,Dr. Ainojie Alex Irune said: We have built this initiative to outlive our generation. My hope is that future generations will experience the growth of this endeavor and the value it brings. The nation has a lot to learn from this initiative; in how you can take something small and transform it through unity and collaboration into something this successful and on such a grand scale. The onus lies on us as private sector partners and you to take advantage of this unique opportunity and propel your state to become an agro-export state.

Mr. Lorenzo Fiorillo, Vice Chairman/Managing Director NAOC highlighted the future plans of the Joint Venture for the Green River Project which includes proposed agro skills acquisition training for 350 youths in 2019; a planned empowerment and enhancement of businesses for 945 youth; extension of GRP activities to include four more communities in Bayelsa state and provision of relief materials to flood victims through the Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers and Imo states Government. He further explained that the theme of this years event was carefully selected because of the JVs numerous projects geared towards empowering the youths in particular and the people of the Niger Delta in general.

Calling on more youth participation in future Farmers Day celebrations, Mrs Edina Osifo, a representative from NAPIMS said, NAPIMS will continue support this venture to make it sustainable. Youths make the best of this initiative. It would be a pleasure to see a youth crowned the best overall farmer in 2019. I also call on women to get more involved.

In his vote of thanks, the COO of Oando Energy Resources Dr. Irune said: Over 20 years ago someone decided that this was a good idea. Came together, pooled the resources, supported by people that arent present here today and everyone in this place to deliver what we are experiencing today. Without that vision we would not be here today. So I want to thank the NAOC Joint Venture and the FGN for their commitment in making this a reality today. We have a lot of work to do and with the support we have from all our stakeholders especially the farmers, we see a bright future ahead of us.The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has traced properties worth N5 billion to former Plateau State Governor, Jonah Jang, who is currently standing trial for graft.

The properties are located at No. 8 and 9 Gobarau Road Unguwan Rimi GRA Kaduna State.

Preliminary investigations according to a statement signed by Tony Orilade, acting head, media and publicity, EFCC, on Monday said the properties were purchased from New Capital Properties Limited, a subsidiary of Northern Nigerian Development Company, NNDC, Kaduna.

It would be recalled that the EFCC on May 7, 2018 filed 12 count charges against the immediate past governor for an alleged fraud of about N6.3 billion.

A serving senator representing Plateau-North Senatorial District, Mr Jang is being prosecuted before a Plateau State High Court for allegedly embezzling funds released to the state by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

The former governor is also said to have abused his office as the governor by collecting money to the tune of N4.3 billion from the state coffers through the cashier of the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Yusuf Pam.

One of the charges revealed that the former governor allegedly diverted N2 billion released by the CBN for disbursement to Small and Medium Enterprises in the state under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Funds, just a month before the expiration of his tenure in April 2015.A middle aged man, who is yet to be identified, was on Monday ran over by a train at the Phikwore Area of Kubwa, a suburb of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the victim, who left a suicide note, was earlier sighted lying down on the rail track waiting for the train, shortly before the train killed him.

NAN also reports that the incident happened at about 12:45 p.m., a kilometre away from the Kubwa Railway Station.

The victim left behind a suicide note in a bag containing some clothes by the side of the railway track.

Some of the eyewitnesses who spoke with NAN said that the note contained a short message, supposedly to his wife and kid, which reads: Please forgive me for I do not have funds to take care of you.

The body of the victim was yet to be identified as at the time of this report.

The spokesman to Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Niyi Ali, who confirmed this incident to NAN, said that an investigation had begun into the incident to unravel the real motive behind the act.

We will like to find out what will warrant a young man to lay in wait on a train track to take his life.

Meanwhile, the body of the victim was by the rail as at the time of this report.

(NAN)A former senator, Saidu Dansadau, the governorship candidate of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), on Sunday launched his campaign with a promise to rescue the state from insecurity.

Mr Dansadau also pledged at the launch in Gusau that he would make Zamfara a centre of commerce, if elected.

He said that he decided to contest for the governorship position because of the socio-economic challenges the state had been experiencing.

Zamfara State has suffered a lot of setbacks security wise and economically.

I am offering myself to run for governor and to serve my state. I will make Zamfara work again by delivering good governance, if elected governor.

If you vote NRM, you would not regret it because the party will make Zamfara work again; because it is on a rescue mission to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people.

He said that Zamfara used to be a business hub in the North, second only to Kano State, but alleged that the state had now been brought to its knees.

Mr Dansadau promised to revamp the economy of the state and give the people a sense of belonging .

Earlier ,the National Deputy Chairman of NRM, Niyi Dada, while handing over the partys flag to Mr Dansadau, thanked him for availing himself for the contest.

Mr Dada said that NRM would use Zamfara to set a standard for good governance in the other states of the federation.

He said that the party presented the flag to Mr Dansadau as a mark of responsibility and urged him to be a good ambassador of the party by delivering a new Zamfara.

Some of the electorates who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) promised to support the party and deliver their respective local government areas to the party during the 2019 general elections.

Hauwa Musa ,a trader from Anka Local Government Area, said that she loved the partys manifesto especially its promise to find solution to the security challenges facing the state.

Mrs Musa said that she lost her son to insurgency and vowed to rally support for NRM to end the menace.

Haruna Shehu also promised to support the party in order to make the state economically vibrant.(NAN)Governor Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara State has warned that any traditional ruler linked to banditry in the state will be deposed.

Mr Yari issued the warning while fielding questions from State House correspondents after a closed-door meeting with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Monday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The governor recently stripped some traditional rulers and district heads of their titles over complicity in the lingering banditry that has bedevilled the state.

According to Mr Yari, his government is trying to teach a lesson as the problem in the state and the North-west is a peculiar one.

He said that some traditional rulers were supporting the activities of the bandits by taking advantage of their activities or taking money from them which posed a great danger to the state.

To give you trust to manage people through tradition and then you are taking part directly or directly; that cannot be accepted.

So, anyone found wanting in this act will definitely face punishment; and we are trying to use all the avenues that we have to fish out those that are within us; within the traditional rulers and outside.

That is why we have intelligence; we have the Civilian Joint Taskforce and all of them so that they can help us in giving us the detail. We have over 2,600 men and women working against these bandits.

The terrain is difficult and is not known to them; so we have employed those sons of the soil that will lead the security agencies to their doorsteps; so we have been getting a very good result.

If you are talking of the general public, how many are they, we are getting to 5 million and the traditional rulers are about 200 and above; so if we find anyone underline this word; anyone wanting; he will go, he said.

On his promise of N1 million reward for each Ak-47 rifle handed over by criminals, Mr Yari said 10 rifles had been submitted so far.

Mr Yari said, however, that he was in the villa to discuss the extended National Economic Council (NEC) meeting for the end of the year.

He said it was agreed that NEC would be held on December 14 to discuss the economy and review its performance from January to date.

(NAN)Expect the unexpected at The Handlebar. This unassuming West Wicker Park gem belies its self-described "food + booze" atmosphere with its artsy neighborhood feel and quality vegetarian/vegan food.

The Handlebar is true to its name, however, by being bicycle friendly. This place opened in 2003 to give environmentally conscious customers a friendly place to eat affordable, healthy food, and it works.

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On bike-friendly days, riders park bicycles along the front railing or behind the restaurant. The staff keeps air pumps on hand, especially when hosting biking events. A bicycle sculpture sits in the outdoor patio (open when weather permits). For customers on four wheels, the low-key neighborhood has ample street parking, so you don't have to feed pesky meters.

Inside the narrow storefront, natural brick walls feature local art and musician posters. A bar lines half the restaurant across from the open kitchen. In a whimsical tribute to the staff's favorite holiday, Halloween, almost 100 feather-covered foam blackbirds dot the restaurant. Thumping rock music  sometimes making conversation difficult  gives a hip, mainly youth-oriented vibe.

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Eco-friendly food and decor reinforce the main theme. Bar stools are made from tire rims and tires. Leftover food leaves in recycled cardboard, biodegradable containers. Everything from paper to cans and food grease gets recycled. Collectors haul away grease-filled containers for grease-fueled vehicles.

Food is the main event at Handlebar, however. And it's not your usual pub grub either.

"We specialize in scratch cooking, meaning homemade," says Celia Esdale, manager since 2003 and owner since 2011. "Whenever possible, ingredients come from local markets or local purveyors. Our bar features a variety of domestic wines and beers from nearby microbreweries. We offer fine-dining versions of comfort food at affordable prices."

The dinner menu lists a cultural melange of appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrees, including at least two seafood items. Dishes range from $4 to $14 and look as good as they taste. Specials on food, beer and wine  including deals for bicycle messengers  change daily; Tuesday's veggie burger night is for everyone.

Look for round icons on the menu  they designate items that are vegan or can be prepared that way upon request.

Start with the stuffed Indian samosas appetizer with two mild sauces. Three delicately fried whole wheat pouches contain flavorful curry-spiced potatoes mixed with peas, carrots and onions.

The Handlebar salad with arugula, pears and walnuts in a Champagne honey mustard dressing, and roasted beet and spinach salad with goat cheese, candied pepitas, shaved red onion and beets in a cumin citrus dressing each provide a punchy mix of fresh tastes and textures.

One entree that stands out is the black bean maduro. Layers of brown rice, jack cheese, black beans and a chipotle tomato sauce elegantly top sweet plantain slices, which are needed to tame the spicy sauce. Another favorite is blackened tofu fajitas. Soft corn tortillas arrive with wonderfully seasoned tofu fingers, sliced avocado, portobello mushrooms, peppers, onions and black beans and side of mild salsa verde.

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Breakfast dishes, such as pepita tofu scramble, display the same unusual ingredients, fine flavors and artful presentations. Rather than a true scramble, large chunks of tofu and sweet potatoes and strands of kale are covered by a piquant green poblano and pumpkin seed pesto.

Besides amazing dishes, Handlebar is known for its lightly fried fruit-filled pies, such as Michigan sour cherry.

But the signature dessert remains plantains Foster. A large slice of moist gingerbread cake sits in a pool of mouthwatering buttery rum caramel sauce dotted with banana chunks. Sorry vegans, this one's for the other folks.

Kay Stepkin's recipe column, the Veggie Cook, appears every other Wednesday in the Tribune's Good Eating section.

The Handlebar

2311 W. North Ave., 773-384-9546,

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handlebarchicago.com

Open:

10 a.m. to 1 a.m. every day

Entree prices:

$8 to $14

Noise level:

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Rock music sometimes can drown out conversation

Parking:

Street parking for cars; bicycle rack in front and near back entrance off alley

Reservations:

None; first-come, first-served. Waits can reach an hour at peak weekend brunch and dinner times.

ctc-dining@tribune.comAtiku Abubakar has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to immediately declare a seven-day national mourning in honour dozens of police officers who were killed in Zamfara State on November 29.

Police and community sources had earlier told PREMIUM TIMES over 50 police officers were killed by the bandits.

The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said the national grieving should simultaneously be observed for the fallen soldiers of the Boko Haram attack in Borno State on November 18, and the Nigerian flag should fly at half-mast during the period.

One billion dollars should also be immediately released to equip security agencies, Mr Abubakar suggested, as part of urgent measures he wants the Buhari administration to take in the wake of the losses of security personnel.

Mr Abubakar said he regrets these deaths and is pained that those who have dedicated their lives to securing Nigeria are being cut down in their prime.

Coming so soon after the heavy losses sustained by the Nigerian Army at the hands of Boko Haram in Metele, Borno State, this new casualty figure is a red flag that calls for immediate and decisive action on the part of the leadership of Nigeria, the former vice-president added.

He demanded an immediate allocation of at least $1 billion to go towards arming and training our military, police and other security agencies, as well as improved operating conditions for the officers and men at the frontlines of the war on terror and criminality.

The statement comes four days after PREMIUM TIMES broke the story of the deadly ambush that left dozens of police officers killed during an operation to dislodge rustlers in Zamfara State. On Sunday, multiple police sources confirmed to this newspaper that over 50 officers were killed in the attack, amidst raging concerns over evacuation of their remains.

The police have refused to comment on the killings, neither has Mr Buhari or his administration officials issued any statement about it.

Coming less than two week after at least 118 soldiers of the 157 Task Force Battalion, including their commander, were killed in Metele by Boko Haram insurgents, Mr Abubakar said it was time the Nigerian government placed wholesale focus on national security issues, especially the need to rachete up supply of security hardware and welfare of personnel and their families. The army has disputed the casualty from the Metele attack, claiming 23 soldiers were killed.

Serving Nigeria must be a thing of sacrifice and pride, not a suicide mission. If we must send men and women to protect us, we must protect them by giving them the very best training and weaponry money can buy, Mr Abubakar said.

The Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, lamented on Sunday that there has been no significant release to the Nigerian military from the federal coffers, saying even the $1 billion emergency security funds Mr Buhari controversially withdrew from excess crude account in late 2017 has not reached the military.

Mr Abubakar said the money was not judiciously used, and urged a thorough probe of its whereabouts.

Presidential spokesperson Garba Shehu did not return PREMIUM TIMES requests for comments Monday evening.

Even though PREMIUM TIMES could not immediately verify whether or not the Nigerian Army has received its share of the $1 billion security fund, the Nigerian Air Force appears to have received a huge share of it.

On November 28, the United States Department of Defence announced it had placed order for 12 Super Tucano fighter jets for the Nigerian Air Force, in a deal that could gulp over $344 million. There had been reports that the $469 million which Mr Buhari transferred to the U.S. government in April was part of the $1 billion security fund, which both the National Assembly and state governors said was necessary but opposed the manner Mr Buhari handled it as unconstitutional.

Mr Abubakar launched his presidential campaign tour with a North-west zonal rally in Sokoto Monday, promising better living conditions for Nigerians. He is considered the main challenger to President Buhari among the dozens of presidential candidates for next years election.A former member of the federal House of Representatives, Eseme Eyiboh, has faulted Governor Udom Emmanuels surprise visit to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly a few days ago amidst a festering crisis in the assembly.

Mr Emmanuel, accompanied by security officials and some youth, drove into the assembly on November 27 while five All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmakers, sacked from the assembly, were holding their sitting.

The five lawmakers were violently chased away from the assembly premises.

The governors action at the House of Assembly was a well-rehearsed drama, Mr Eyiboh told PREMIUM TIMES, Friday.

The role of maintenance of law and order is vested on the police and other security agencies. All that the governor should have done would have been to call a Security Council meeting in the state.

The governor acted outside the law when he went to the House of Assembly, he said.

Mr Eyiboh, who is the spokesperson of the APC Governorship Campaign Council in Akwa Ibom, said Mr Emmanuels action was clearly a breach of the autonomy of the state legislature.

He said, The governor should never act by the prompt of his instincts or allow his motive to cause him to take laws into his hands, which he did recently.

I am telling you the truth because aside from being a chieftain of the APC, what I am telling you is completely outside the cubicle of political partisanship.

We must commit ourselves to protect our constitution and our democracy to remain the government of the people by the people and for the people and not the general abetment of the tyranny of the few which is why the state is boiling.

Mr Eyiboh said if the assembly leadership, under the Speaker, Onofiok Luke, were to be sincere in their action, the first person the House would have sacked would have been Asuquo Archibong (Urue Offong/Oruko State Constituency), who defected from the APC to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) last year.

Defection must be at the instance of the crisis in the party at the national level, but there was none in APC when Hon. Archibong defected to PDP.

Mr Eyiboh tried to justify the defection of the five lawmakers to APC.

But today in an event of a merger, which is an outcome of a process, PDP signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with other political parties which called themselves Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP). That MoU is a process that will lead to a merger. So, if a member of PDP feels that his party has compromised its principles and those that attracted him to the party of his choice, and in this case, those gentlemen defected because PDP is in the process of merging with other parties with a name called CUPP.

He said PDP was jittery because they know APC is winning these elections.

The crisis in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly started on November 19 when the speaker, Mr Luke, declared vacant the seats of the five lawmakers who defected to APC.

The lawmakers are Nse Ntuen, who represented Essien Udim State Constituency; Gabriel Toby, Etim Ekpo/Ika; Otobong Ndem, Mkpat Enin; Victor Udofia, Ikono; and Idongesit Ituen, Itu.

After their sack, the five went on to have their sitting and declared Mr Luke removed from office as the speaker, defying the Nigerian constitution, and elected Mr Ntuen as the new speaker.

Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly consists of 26 members.

The Nigerian constitution says a speaker or deputy speaker can only be removed from office by a resolution of House of Assembly by the votes of not less than two-third majority of the members of the House.

It would, therefore, require the votes of 17 lawmakers, at least, to remove Mr Luke as the speaker of the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly.

The Commissioner for Information in the state, Charles Udoh, told PREMIUM TIMES it was necessary for the governor to visit the assembly because of the crisis.

The governor is the chief security officer of the Akwa Ibom State, so when there is a security threat, the governor has to physically supervise whats going on there, Mr Udoh said.

The five dissident, sacked House members, aided by the police with thugs dressed in fake police and army uniform, had invaded the House of Assembly.

The governor, being the chief security officer of Akwa Ibom state, has an obligation to be there.

The governors presence helped to restore peace and calm at the assembly, especially when you consider the fact that the illegality perpetrated by the five sacked members of the House of Assembly, was aided and abetted by the Nigeria Police Force, he said.The 33 traders suspected to be members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) arrested on November 33 at the Motor Spare Parts Market in Nnewi, Anambra State, have regained their freedom unconditionally.

Chairman of the Fairly Used and New Motorcycle Dealers Association (FUNMDA), Chukwueloka Ubajekwe, broke the news to journalists on Sunday evening.

According to him, the 33 traders were released on Saturday in Nnewi at the office of the Nnewi Police Area Commander, Nnanna Ama.

Mr Ubajekwe disclosed that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris, deployed a special team that investigated and subsequently released the suspects.

According to Mr Ubajekwe, the team arrived Awka and brought the 33 suspects down to Nnewi at about 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, following which a search was conducted in their various shops.

After the search, according to the chairman, the suspects were taken down to the Nnewi Police Area Command where their unconditional release was secured by the leadership of Nnewi markets.

The police spokesperson in Anambra State, Haruna Mohammed, neither picked his call nor replied a text message sent to him on the development.

But the Nnewi Area Commander, Nnanna Ama, confirmed the development to PREMIUM TIMES.

He said the 33 traders were released in his presence at the Nnewi Area Command at about 11:30 p.m on Saturday, adding that they were instructed to report to the headquarters on Monday to collect their personal belongings, including money, motorcycles, and items of clothing.

Mr Ama said the IGPs special team, which released the suspects, tendered an unalloyed apology on behalf of the IGP and the Nigerian Police to the affected persons, their families, Nnewi and Anambra people over the mistaken identity.

The traders were arrested on November 23 after suspected members of IPOB invaded Nnewi market where they clashed with the police, killing a police inspector and injuring two other officers.

This led to the arrest of the 33 suspects on suspicion of being members of the outlawed group. PREMIUM TIMES reported how the police paraded the suspects for allegedly being responsible for the murder of the officer.

But following protests from traders who shut down the market and a statement by IPOB denying that those arrested were its members, the IGP waded in by sending a special investigative team to handle the matter which led to their release.The Abia Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Johnson Onuigbo, suspended on November 27 over alleged lack of transparency and accountability has been reinstated.

Matthew Ibe, the Abia North Zonal Vice Chairman of the party, told journalists in Umuahia on Monday that the issue leading to the chairmans suspension had been amicably resolved.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 19 members of the State Working Committee (SWC) of the party met on November 27 and issued a communique suspending Mr Onuigbo as the chairman.

The committee replaced the chairman with his vice, Chima Onyegbu.

The SWC accused Mr Onuigbo of lack of transparency and accountability and illegal acquisition of wealth at the detriment of the party.

The committee further alleged that he was piloting the affairs of the party as a `private estate, characterised by the usurpation of offices, impunity and imposition.

Mr Ibe, who was one of the signatories of the communique, said that the matter had been resolved.

According to him, the little issue has been resolved, hence the meeting of the SWC.

We hereby withdraw the communique, Mr Ibe, who was a former member of the Abia House of Assembly, said.

He gave assurance that further steps would be taken to retract the allegations against the chairman in writing.

The briefing, which was organised at the end of the partys EXCO meeting, was presided over by Mr Onuigbo, with all the EXCO members in attendance.

In his speech, Mr Onuigbo attributed the disagreement to `devil, saying that it was designed by the enemy to disrupt the peace and cause distraction in the party.

He said that the matter had been amicably settled and that all the party organs were working harmoniously.

He thanked Governor Okezie Ikpeazu for his quick intervention adding that peace had returned to the party.

It is my pleasure to inform you that Abia PDP has resolved its differences amicably.

PDP is one family and a peace-loving party, where everybody wants to belong. We are intact and there is no division in the party, he said.

He described the reconciliation and peace as `genuine hoping it would endure because it involved the highest decision-making organ of the party.

Mr Onuigbo said that the party held peaceful, free, fair and credible primaries; hence there were no post-primaries defections by aspirants that lost.

The party chairman said that the party would work hard, as usual, to ensure victory at all levels during the 2019 general elections.

The party is moving toward the general elections. We are going to work very hard, as usual, to make sure we have a resounding victory.

We know that it is not going to be a tea party, the chairman said and prayed that the 2019 polls would be peaceful, free, fair and credible. (NAN)Religious leaders among whom are leaders of Islamic, Christian and Traditional organisations have condemned the recently announced security levies imposed on places of worship in Oyo State.

PREMIUM TIMES recalls that the Oyo State government under the leadership of Governor Abiola Ajimobi had last week announced that it imposed security levies on religious organisations, manufacturing, trading and other business organisations in the state.

The levies were imposed by the state government to generate funds to assist security agencies maintain a crime free state.

The categories of the levies were contained in flyers made available to journalists at an emergency stakeholders meeting convened by the state government.

But, religious bodies in the state have opposed the new development since the announcement was made.

The Chief Missioner, Islamic Spiritual and Charitable Group of Nigeria, Olatunde Mumin, who said that one of the functions of the government was to ensure security of lives and property, said imposing annual levies on religious bodies will amount to double taxation.

He argued that members of various religious bodies are tax payers who would have discharged their civic responsibility in one form or the other to government, hence, asking them to pay another tax through their religious houses becomes a double responsibility.

He said that security of lives and property is the responsibility of government at all times as this is the only way citizens can feel the existence of government.

The Muslim Community of Apete, Awotan, Ayegun and environs in Ido Local Government Area of the state said the newly introduced security levies will amount to injustice.

Secretary of the community, Ahmad Olalere, in a statement made available to this newspaper on behalf of the community on Sunday added that the Muslims in the area reject the new levy.

Mr Olalere who said that the community will vehemently oppose the move, declared that such move will amount to injustice targeting religious bodies that are non-profit in nature like Islamic ones.

Also, Aladura Patriarch and Primate Spiritual Leader of Merciful Christ Church Inc. Olapade Agoro, said the idea of taxing religious bodies shoud be taken with caution because of its ability to raise tension, hate and acrimony beyond expectations.

Mr Agoro in a statement on Saturday called for calm and well-researched reaction that must not be confrontational.

Chief Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode Dr. Olapade Agoro

He added that the government on its part must be prepared to meet the people for discussion to avoid crises.

The gubernatorial candidate of the Socialist Party of Nigeria (SPN), Abiodun Bamigboye, while reacting urged the Abiola Ajimobi administration not to transfer the burden of funding security agencies on poor people.

He argued that imposition of security levies is unconstitutional and will unleash more hardships on the people.

The security of life and properties of citizen is the basic social responsibility of the government at all levels, he said.

He argued that security agents in the state would have been more effective if the huge proportion of the yearly budget often voted on security by the federal government and the security votes governors often allocate to themselves out of the funds at the disposal of the state had been used judiciously over time.

Placing yearly budgetary allocation on security and the security votes received by the state governor under a democratic control of elected representative of the working people and security agents would have guaranteed a better improvement in both the working and living condition of the security agents, he said.

L-R: Secretary to Oyo State Government, Mr. Olalekan Alli; Executive Secretary, Oyo State Security Trust Fund, Mr. Femi Oyedipe; state Deputy Governor, Chief Moses Adeyemo; and Special Adviser on Security to the governor, Mr. Segun Abolarinwa, at the security stakeholders summit, in Ibadan. L-R: Director, Department of State Services, Oyo State Command, Mr. Abdullahi Kure; Commissioner of Police at the state command, Mr. Abiodun Odude; Secretary to the State Government, Mr Olalekan Alli; and Deputy Governor, Chief Moses Adeyemo, at a security stakeholders summit.

Also traditional religion adherents under the auspices of Traditional Religion Worshipers Association of Oyo State (TRWASSO), said they are strongly against the move to tax temples and priests.

TRWASSO General Secretary, Fayemi Fakayode, while speaking on behalf of his colleagues in the state argued that levying the temples or the priests who are struggling to propagate the religion without moral and financial support directly and indirectly from the home government at any level is tantamount to sending the religion back to crawling stage.

Mr Fakayode told PREMIUM TIMES on Saturday that taxing worship centres will make religious leaders derail from the teachings of their religion and godly assignment which is to advocate for good character and refrain from social vices.Students of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, are protesting a four-hour-per-day electricity ration handed down to them by the management last Friday.

The undergraduates  medical and pharmacy students  say the institution has continued to turn a blind eye to their plight but, instead, focused on increasing their fees.

A November 30 memo to the students informed them that effective December 1, power supply to their hostels would be 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The management, therefore, implored all students for understanding, read the notice signed by A.O Adeyemo, Principal Assistant Secretary (Students) at the college.

Several students from the college of medicine who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES said they study under inhospitable conditions.

The students preferred not to say their names for fear of victimisation; more so as they see the university as one with a history of going after those critical of its actions.

A student told PREMIUM TIMES they had been facing numerous challenges in the institution but the latest electricity ration was the one that broke the camels back.

We said no and we told them we are going to the media, said the student.

The world must hear this suffering of ours.

Prior to the four hours a day electricity supply, the students had clashed with their provost over an increment in hostel accommodation fees from N32,500 to N44,500.

It was the first time since 2012 when the fees were increased from N24,000 to N32,500.

PREMIUM TIMES learnt that the increase to N44,500 was to cover for electricity costs being provided by a new independent power plant in the college.

The increment as we were told was that we should start paying for electricity because of the power plant that was installed and its being managed by a private company, the student added.

The protests led to Folusho Lesi, a professor and the provost of the college of medicine, being summoned by the university management, PREMIUM TIMES learnt.

Two weeks ago, the hostel increment was reversed to N32,500.

But last Friday, a notice surfaced on the students information board informing them that they would be having only four hours of electricity everyday.

The notice infuriated the students who took to the streets in protest.

Since late last year when the power plant came into existence, the students had been averaging 16 hours daily electricity supply  5pm to 9am. On weekends, the students have 24 hours power supply.

Before the power plant, we were connected to PHCN and we had generator that we use, another student told PREMIUM TIMES.

The generator was always on from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and (then) complemented by PHCN.

Part of the agreement in the increment in 2012 was to fuel the generator when the then provost, Prof Ogunshola, complained that there was no money to fuel the generator for us.

A university spokesperson did not immediately respond to phone calls by PREMIUM TIMES.

Mr Lesi did not also respond to phone calls and a text message.

A student leader told PREMIUM TIMES their protests had not yielded any results as at Monday evening.

The vice chancellor is out of the country and we have to wait till he comes back. But for now, we are having only four hours of electricity.

They are still telling us that we must pay money for electricity. An additional N11,000 for electricity. We are saying that the amount we are paying for school fees and hostel fees should be enough. There is nowhere that students in hostels are paying for electricity.

The student leader said they are already paying higher fees than their colleagues at the university main campus who pay N24,000 for the hostel accommodation.

They have been seeing the protests and what they are saying is that we should continue protesting.Parents of some female Muslim students of the International School, Ibadan, have sued its authority for disallowing their children from wearing hijab on their school uniforms.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the applicants in the suit before an Oyo High Court in Ibadan, are Taofeek Yekinni, Idris Badiru, Sikiru Babarinde, Muideen Akerele and 10 others.

The respondents in the suit are: ISI, University of Ibadan, the School Principal, Phebean Olowe and Abideen Aderinto, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) and Chairman, ISI Board of Governors.

In the court summon obtained by NAN, the applicants lawyer, Lateef Fagbemi, urged the court to declare the continuous denial of the authority of ISI to allow the female Muslim students from wearing hijab as wrongful and unconstitutional.

Mr Fagbemi said the action of the authority of ISI violates the applicants right to freedom of thought, religion and right to education as contained in section 38 (1)(a) and 42(1)(a) of the Constitution.

He said the locking up or humiliation of 1 to 11 applicants by the 1 to 4 respondents by themselves and agents as a result of the use of hijab by 1 to 11 applicants is a violation of their fundamental human rights.

He urged the court to order perpetual injunction restraining the respondents either by themselves, agents or servants from further interfering or infringing in any manner with the applicants fundamental rights.

NAN reports that the suit has been fixed for December 21 for mention before the judge, Ladiran Akintola and all the respondents have been served. (NAN)This is the time of year when people tell me, as they return from their European vacations, that they drank bottle after bottle of wine with their meals and "never got a headache." They explain this miracle by saying that wines in Europe "do not contain sulfites," unlike wines sold in the U.S., the labels of which clearly state "Contains sulfites."



Because wine bottle labels in Europe do not print "Contains sulfites," the assumption is that the wine does not as well. But it does; the label merely does not state that it does.



"Contains sulfites" is on all bottles of wine sold in the United States, no matter where the wine was made, because of our government's regulations, rules that do not hold outside the U.S.



My sadly returning vacationers further claim that winemakers in other countries "must make a separate wine for export." They do not; the Antinori Chianti Classico that you drink in Tuscany is the same Antinori Chianti Classico that you drink in Toledo.



The reason that you didn't get a headache drinking it in Tuscany is that you were on vacation. In Tuscany.



Anyway, most people do not "get a headache" from ingesting sulfites.



The "typical allergic reaction to sulfites," says Dr. Mary C. Tobin, director of the Division of Allergy and Immunology at Rush University Medical Center, "is hives, itching, flushing, swelling, nausea, diarrhea and low blood pressure." All bad, but no headache.



Reactions to sulfites vary from mild to life threatening and affect a small percentage of the population (the FDA estimates one in 100, although up to 5 percent of the population of asthmatics). People allergic to sulfites by and large know that they are.



"Sulfite" describes a form of the common, natural, nonmetallic element sulfur. The preservative sulfur dioxide is another form of the element. Because sulfur is an antioxidant and anti-microbial, it prevents spoilage and browning in food and wine. What sulfur does for Tokay, it does for Tater Tots.



Furthermore, you cannot find a wine  any wine  completely free of sulfite. Sulfite is a natural byproduct of fermentation; around 5-10 mg/liter of sulfite exists in wine willy-nilly. Wine labels may state "No added sulfite" (sometimes seen on organic or so-called natural wines) but that is merely as true as it stands. The wine still contains some sulfite; none was added to that which occurred as matter of course.



The amount of sulfite in a bottle of wine will vary, depending on vineyard and winemaking practices, from 40-80 mg/liter. Again, these are levels in all wines conventionally made, from all regions of the globe. Wines that contain more than 10 mg/liter of sulfite must mention, again by our government's laws, "Contains sulfites."



To put sulfite levels in perspective or context, many foods contain sulfites but are not labeled so. For instance, bottled lemon juice, dried (orange) apricots, grape juice, many a salad bar and many a frozen white food (such as potatoes) that the processor wishes to remain white, all contain sulfite, often in amounts many-fold to that in wine.



So, why is there no warning label on a bag of trail mix? A good ol' American answer: politics.



According to Thomas Pinney, in the second of his two-volume work "A History of Wine in America," the congressional engine behind the sulfite warning label, finally enacted in 1986, was then-Sen. Strom Thurmond, of South Carolina, a teetotaler who once growled that "party animal" Spuds MacKenzie, the Budweiser bark-person with one black eye, was "glamorizing the use of alcohol" among young people.



Beginning in the 1970s, various neo-prohibitionist groups lobbied Congress for ingredient labeling on bottles of wine and other alcoholic beverages, with the ostensible aim of preventing such disasters as fetal alcohol syndrome. Stymied by the courts throughout the 1980s and prevented from passing into action such legislation, these efforts morphed into warning labels of one form or another, writes Pinney, "Only now the object was not to inform but to frighten."



Thurmond's crowning achievement was the passage in 1988 of the law that mandates the "government warning" label on all bottles of wine sold in the United States. You'll see it, sometimes, slapped on bottles of wine made in other countries but sold here, looking like the afterthought that it is considered to be by foreign winemakers.



It's the label that tells everyone what they already know, sort of like a sportscaster describing to you what you're currently watching: to beware of ingesting alcohol if you are pregnant or about to operate a machine.



Reading it always gives me a headache.



Bill St. John has been writing and teaching about wine for more than 30 years.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.



Cuaron doesnt get behind Cleos eyes, exactly, or into her soul. His movie operates differently. Its roomy and distanced enough to allow for different emotional responses. I know people who cried their eyes out during Roma, and I know people who loved it precisely because it doesnt go for the full-court press on the tear ducts. Weird as it sounds, Jacques Tatis widescreen comedy Playtime (1967) may be the film Roma resembles most in its aesthetics and its democratic (yet tightly controlled) approach to filling a frame to bursting. A lot of the detail comes straight out of Cuarons childhood home, and his memories of the local Mexico City cinemas and streets. None of that would mean much unless it all came alive as something more than a personal inventory. By the end of Roma, Cuarons memories have turned into a marvel of craft, and one of the years very finest achievements.Following its highly successful showcase at the Grandmaster's Palace in Valletta, The Majlis - Cultures in Dialogue, a traveling cross-cultural exhibition organised at the initiative of the Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al-Thani Museum - that features a collection of a unique assembly of artefacts reflecting the interaction of civilizations in the past while encouraging dialogue in the present - raised its curtains to welcome more than 200 VIP guests on 29th November at UNESCO Headquarters - Paris, taking the audience's delight to a new height with a specially composed song 'Cultures In Dialogue', by the legendary female Qatari composer Dana Al Fardan.

(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/792403/Sheikh_Faisal_Bin_Qasem_Al_Thani.jpg )



Mr. Kees Wieringa, Director of the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum, in the presence of Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani and Mr. Xing Qu, the Deputy Director General of UNESCO, welcomed a number of journalists from highly esteemed French and international media for engaging guided tours during the day.

Preceding the inauguration delegates' speeches, VIP guests had the opportunity to view the astonishing and exceptional collection that bear witness to hundreds of years of intercultural dialogue and interaction of civilizations, through a guided tour around the exhibition. Objects of great beauty and deep fascination including Chinese Qurans, mosque lamps made in Vienna, Persian carpets with Russian texts featuring the Virgin Mary, and mystic artefacts shared from Africa across the Arab world to India, were the prime highlights, triggering a diversification of thoughts and emotions.

H.E. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani and Mr. Xing Qu addressed government, cultural and corporate representatives from Qatar and France with warm welcoming words, as they celebrated the opening of the exhibition at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.

Showcasing an exceptional collection, the exhibition intends to drive visitors to sit in the majlis to listen to stories and engage in conversations on what they see; transmitting the cultural dialogue by exchanging their impressions of the exhibition and learning about other cultures and religions at first hand.

This diverse cultural exhibition recreates the atmosphere of the majlis-the space of hospitality and dialogue present in homes throughout the Arabian Gulf-offering guests the opportunity to exchange ideas about how much common ground exists between different cultures, and how these commonalities have been expressed in technology, art and culture.

Commenting on this occasion, H.E. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, said:

"We are overwhelmed to receive such a stupendous response for "Majlis - Cultures in Dialogue" event in Paris. The city is known to be a connoisseur of global art & culture and the success of this event very well resonates with its inherent philosophy of spreading peace by way of artefacts, handicrafts, arts and songs. By taking this event to various parts of the globe, we intent to spread the message of hope and positivity, by way of breath-taking artistic displays, to the global canvas and encourage visitors to respond to what they see by sharing their own stories, creating dialogue between East and West, between young and old, within a real Majlis seating."

From his part, Mr. Xing Qu, Deputy Director General of UNESCO for Culture, said:

"The Majlis - Cultures in Dialogue in Paris truly exemplifies how art can perfectly play the role of a critical enabler in building bilateral ties. In sync with the philosophy that Museums play a decisive role in strengthening the creative economy locally and regionally, we take immense pride in associating with this noble cause and such an exemplary initiative. In the future too, we will keep associating with such endeavors which support our objective of fostering social cohesion, among local communities and disadvantages groups."

The exhibition is only the beginning of a much bigger project to connect people, beliefs and cultures by creating opportunities for respectful, yet incisive dialogues to take place. The project envisions to create a platform where relevant cultural aspects can be discussed, and original perspectives can be generated through collective thinking. The aim is to initiate meaningful connections between people and cultures and stimulate enriched dialogue around the world.

The Majlis - Cultures in Dialogue is a visitor's experience that reveals how global perspectives can vary depending on the position of the viewer. Following Paris, the exhibition will visit several countries, including Austria, Germany, Spain, Turkey, and the UK. The tour will also include the United States by 2021. The cross-cultural traveling exhibition is bound to make its next stop at the Insitut Du Monde Arabe, in Paris, where it will last for a 2-month period.

SOURCE The MajlisGENEVA, December 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

ZEDRA, a global provider of trust, corporate and fund services, announces today that it has acquired the JP Integra Group ('JP Integra').

(Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/790204/ZEDRA_Logo.jpg )



JP Integra is a leading, Cayman-based provider of fund, corporate and trustee services. The firm has developed a reputation for its personalised service and has won multiple industry awards for its fund establishment and administration services and currently has assets under administration in excess of USD 6 billion. JP Integra has particular expertise in assisting international private, institutional and sovereign clients with all aspects of structuring and operating structures for joint ventures, wealth management, asset protection and collective investments.

The transaction, which is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to complete in the first half of 2019, substantially increases ZEDRA's capabilities in providing the most appropriate structuring and administrative solutions to its international clients. ZEDRA already has an established office and staff in Cayman providing trust services, which will complement the private funds, private equity, corporate management and private wealth services provided by JP Integra. On completion of the transaction JP Integra's operations will be rebranded and fully integrated within ZEDRA, and all members of staff from the two offices will form a singular team and presence on the island. ZEDRA and JP Integra operate on PFS-Paxus as a fund platform and both teams' extensive knowledge of this system will facilitate and expedite the integration of the JP Integra business. Peter Cockhill of JP Integra will be the Managing Director of the combined office and the Directors of both ZEDRA and JP Integra will remain in their current roles.

"We're delighted to announce the acquisition of JP Integra. This important acquisition represents a significant step forward in strengthening our capabilities and client service in Cayman," says Niels Nielsen, ZEDRA Group CEO.

"JP Integra's award-winning team will enhance the scope of fund services that we're able to offer our clients," adds Ivo Hemelraad, ZEDRA Group Director of Corporate, Funds & Legal. "By complementing our already extensive in-house expertise and capabilities, we're looking forward to being able to add even greater value to the fund services ZEDRA can deliver today."

Peter Cockhill, CEO of JP Integra says, "At JP Integra, we've always endeavoured to be a solutions-focused provider, offering bespoke services to clients. By joining ZEDRA we're able to maintain this approach and we'll be able to do even more for our clients; joining a team whose fund experience paired with our own is particularly appealing."

ZEDRA recently announced that Corsair Capital LLP, one of the longest-standing private equity firms focused on the financial services industry, has made a majority investment in ZEDRA. Corsair's partnership will support ZEDRA's continued growth and expansion. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to complete in 2019.

For further information, please visit http://www.zedra.com

About ZEDRA

ZEDRA is an independent, global specialist in trust, corporate and fund services. At its core are the onshore and offshore trust business acquired from Barclays in 2016. ZEDRA has a diverse client base, including high-net-worth individuals and their families, international corporations, institutional investors and entrepreneurs.

ZEDRA's 500-strong team of industry experts is dedicated to creating and delivering bespoke solutions for clients. The business is focused on the strong commitment of an experienced team, fostering an entrepreneurial approach to delivering exceptional client services.

ZEDRA's trademarks of flexibility, boldness and expertise allow it to respond to complex needs, whilst maintaining the highest standards of corporate governance in an ever-evolving regulatory environment. It is ZEDRA's ambition to continue strengthening and expanding its services and to become a leading industry player.

Note to Editors

JP Integra is a trusted advisor and service provider to all forms of investment funds and has been providing full service fund administration to clients from the Cayman Islands since 2008. We have deep and wide experience in financial services which enables us to understand the needs of our clients and provide the bespoke professional solutions-based service delivery that they require. JP Integra has won numerous industry awards including the prestigious Hedgeweek "Best Offshore Administrator 2018" award.

For more information on JP Integra, please visit http://www.jpintegra.com.

SOURCE ZEDRA GroupPHILADELPHIA, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- On Tuesday, November 13, 2018, the American Medical Association's (AMA) House of Delegates voted unanimously to approve Resolution 955 "Equality for COMLEX and USMLE." The resolution provides that the AMA "promote equal acceptance of the USMLE and COMLEX at all United States residency programs." Further, that the AMA will "work with appropriate stakeholders, including, but not limited to the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME), Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners (NBOME), Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and American Osteopathic Association (AOA) to educate Residency Program Directors on how to interpret and use COMLEX scores." The new policy also calls for the AMA to work with residency program directors to promote higher utilization of COMLEX-USA for DO (osteopathic physician) applicants to ACGME residency programs in light of the new single accreditation system.

The NBOME's Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination of the United States (COMLEX-USA) series provides the pathway to licensure for osteopathic physicians in the United States, and is a graduation requirement for earning a DO degree from colleges of osteopathic medicine. The single accreditation system for graduate medical education, a joint agreement between the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM), AOA, ACGME, allows graduates of DO-granting and MD-granting medical schools to train in ACGME-accredited residency and fellowship programs. By 2020, all residency programs in the U.S. will be accredited by the ACGME, which now has six DOs on its Board of Directors, including Vice Chair, Karen J. Nichols, DO, MA, MACOI, CS.

Currently, most ACGME residency and fellowship program directors, teaching hospitals, and all of the nation's state licensing boards accept, use, and/or require COMLEX-USA for DOs, and ACGME, AOA and the Federation of State Medical Boards, among others, have official policy recognizing COMLEX-USA and its validity. This endorsement by the AMA comes at a strategically critical time as the single accreditation system is fully implemented in 2020.

The AMA is the largest association of physicians, including both DOs and MDs, in the United States. The AMA's position that COMLEX-USA is equal to the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) represents a major moment for patients and the practice of osteopathic medicine and stands to impact the entire medical community for years to come. NBOME President and CEO, John R. Gimpel, DO, MEd, stated that "MD and DO medical students stood together in solidarity for osteopathic distinctiveness, DO students and residents, and their unique, valid and distinctive credentials."

AACOM and NBOME endorse the resolution and applaud the AMA and the Medical Student Section that introduced it. Speaking on behalf of the colleges of osteopathic medicine and DO students, Stephen C. Shannon, DO, MPH, AACOM CEO and President, said, "This resolution represents a critical and historic milestone in medical educationone that fully embraces the importance and value of the two distinct pathways to becoming a physician in the United States."

About NBOME

NBOME is an independent, non-governmental, non-profit assessment organization committed to protecting the public by providing the means to assess competencies for osteopathic medicine and related health care professions. NBOME's COMLEX-USA examination series is a requirement for graduation from colleges of osteopathic medicine and provides the pathway to licensure for osteopathic physicians in the United States and numerous international jurisdictions.

About AACOM

AACOM represents the 34 accredited colleges of osteopathic medicine in the United States. These colleges are accredited to deliver instruction at 54 teaching locations in 32 states. In the current academic year, these colleges are educating more than 30,000 future physicians25 percent of all U.S. medical students. Six of the colleges are public and 28 are private institutions.

AACOM was founded in 1898 to support and assist the nation's osteopathic medical schools, and to serve as a unifying voice for osteopathic medical education. AACOM's mission is to promote excellence in osteopathic medical education, in research and in service, and to foster innovation and quality among osteopathic medical colleges to improve the health of the American public.

SOURCE National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners

Related Links

http://www.nbome.org

AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Through Triple Play, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Amerigroup Foundation are delivering education and programming that promote the importance of physical activity and proper nutrition, and enable youth to build the skills needed to overcome environmental factors that can negatively impact health and wellness. Thanks to $35,000 in Triple Play grants from Amerigroup Foundation, more youth will have access to health and wellness programming in Texas.

Through the partnership, Boys & Girls Clubs in Texas have made significant strides enabling youth to reach their full potential as healthy, productive adults. When comparing Texas Club kids to youth nationally, for example, 88 percent of Club kids report they've never drank alcohol, compared with 37 percent of youth nationally.

Thanks to Amerigroup Foundation, the following Clubs will receive grants to implement the Triple Play program:

Butler Clubhouse

North Fort Worth Clubhouse

JA Cavile Clubhouse

Panther Clubhouse

Nicholas and Louella Martin Clubhouse

Boys & Girls Clubs of Rusk County

Boys & Girls Clubs of Lubbock

"At Amerigroup Foundation, we are working to ensure Texas youth have an opportunity to live a healthier life," said Tisch Scott, Amerigroup Texas Plan President. "Through our Foundation, we are taking a proactive approach to adolescent health that takes into consideration social and environmental factors that impact well-being, and providing access to resources and support that foster greater awareness about the benefits of leading a healthier lifestyle that can positively impact their future."

As Boys & Girls Clubs of America's proven health and wellness program, Triple Play is a game plan for the mind, body and soul. Supported by founding sponsor The Coca-Cola Company and co-sponsor Amerigroup Foundation, the program's three components deliver on the belief that whole child health fosters young people's ability to gain diverse knowledge, skills and protective factors that enable them to overcome barriers to wellness, resulting in positive future health outcomes.

"Amerigroup Foundation's continued support of Triple Play has enabled us to continuously build and implement a whole child development approach," said Jennifer Bateman, National Vice President of Youth Development Programs for Boys & Girls Clubs of America. "Through the partnership, we're enabling Texas youth in all communities statewide to develop the healthy habits, and social and emotional skills to lead a healthy lifestyle for life."

Amerigroup Foundation is committed to improving health and strengthening communities. Over the summer, the Foundation awarded Boys & Girls Clubs of Tarrant County a $25,000 grant to expand the Triple Play program for Fort Worth area youth.

Through Triple Play, Amerigroup Foundation aims to create positive outcomes for youth, families and communities that are sustained over time. Together, the partnership seeks to level the playing field to enable all youth to achieve great futures.

The Triple Play grants are part of a five-year, $10 million commitment to Boys & Girls Clubs of America from Amerigroup's parent Foundation.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of America

For more than 150 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA.org) has enabled young people most in need to achieve great futures as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Today, 4,400 Clubs serve 4 million young people through Club membership and community outreach. Clubs are located in cities, towns, public housing and on Native lands throughout the country, and serve military families in BGCA-affiliated Youth Centers on U.S. military installations worldwide. They provide a safe place, caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Club programs promote academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. In a Harris Survey of alumni, 54 percent said the Club saved their lives. National headquarters are located in Atlanta. Learn more on Facebook and Twitter.

About Amerigroup Foundation

The Amerigroup Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Amerigroup, a wholly owned subsidiary of Anthem, Inc. Together, with local, regional and national organizations, the Amerigroup Foundation works to enhance the health and well-being of individuals and families in communities that Amerigroup and its affiliated health plans serve. Amerigroup Foundation funding is focused on strategic initiatives working to address and provide innovative solutions to health care challenges, as well as promoting the Healthy Generations Program, a multi-generational initiative with five areas of focus: Healthy Heart, Cancer Prevention, Healthy Maternal Practices, Type 2 Diabetes Prevention, and Healthy Active Lifestyle. These disease states and medical conditions include: prenatal care in the first trimester, low birth weight babies, cardiac morbidity rates, long term activities that decrease obesity and increase physical activity, diabetes prevalence in adult populations, adult pneumococcal and influenza vaccinations and smoking cessation. The Foundation also coordinates the company's year-round Associate Giving program which provides a 50 percent match of associates' campaign pledges, as well as its Volunteer Time Off and Dollars for Doers community service programs. To learn more about the Amerigroup Foundation, please visit www.anthem.foundation.

SOURCE Boys & Girls Clubs of America

Related Links

http://www.bgca.org

MIAMI, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Held as one of the leading Brazilian visual artists Nina Pandolfo overflows delicacy in her works. In December, she takes her colors to Miami for an exhibition and creation of an exclusive mural on trendy Lincoln Road.

The design of the outdoor work takes place in parallel with Art Basel Miami Beach at the Convention Center, one of the most important art fairs in the world, which has its next edition coming next week. The event extrapolates gallery spaces and stirs up the already bustling city, with cocktails, parties, and exclusive presentations. The BRG Lounge, for example, hosts guests for a private event, which also celebrates Nina Pandolfo's new exhibition in Miami entitled "Everything was in me" and presents guests with the opportunity to enjoy some of her works.

When invited by BRG International, a boutique brokerage specialized in high-end condominiums in Florida, to exhibit and create during Miami Art Week, the artist was in the process of creating an exhibition to London. In the short space of time, Nina then carefully selected five works from her personal collection, each telling a story.

Exclusive Lounge

The BRG International Lounge hosts meetings and cocktails. "Art is part of what Miami's upscale market delivers to its customers. Galleries and works with acclaimed names are present in many condos with units that are worth several million dollars. More than the beautiful landscapes, Miami's demanding client is also attracted by the best of this universe," explains Matias Alem, CEO of the company.

Temporary installation will be held at the BRG International:

605 Lincoln Road , Suite 302, Miami Beach, FL 33139

Wednesday 5th of December 2018

7:00 PM - 11:00 PM

About BRG

Beyond Realty Group has been established as a multidisciplinary investment and development company that specialize in luxury real estate, custom home design & construction, and development of diverse communities around the world. Founded in 2010 the group of companies includes BRG International, BRG Homes, BRG Studio, BRG Construction, and BRG Management.

SOURCE BRG International, LLC

Related Links

http://www.brgart.com

NEW YORK, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- CIT Group Inc. (NYSE: CIT) today announced that its Healthcare Finance business, part of CIT's Commercial Finance division, provided $28.7 million in financing for the acquisition of medical office buildings in Brockton and Haverhill, Massachusetts.

The Brockton building houses the Greene Cancer Center, which is affiliated with Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital. The building is leased to the hospital, which is launching a new oncology program on the campus, along with orthopedics and other specialist services.

The Haverhill building, known as the Haverhill Medical Center, is a recently constructed medical office building leased to Anna Jaques Hospital in Newburyport, Massachusetts.

Both buildings were acquired by Chestnut Healthcare Partners LP, a discretionary investment fund co-managed by Anchor Health Properties and Chestnut Real Estate.

"CIT's healthcare industry expertise made them a natural choice as we sought financing for these important acquisitions," said James Schmid of Anchor Health Properties. "We're pleased with the outcome and the smooth closing process."

"We worked closely with Anchor Health Properties and Chestnut Real Estate to understand their needs and create a financing package that supported their goals for these transactions," said William Douglass, managing director and group head of CIT's Healthcare Finance business.

CIT's Healthcare Finance unit provides comprehensive financing and banking solutions to middle market healthcare companies across the U.S. By using a client-focused and industry-centric model, Healthcare Finance can tailor its products and services to help clients meet their needs for growth capital.

About CIT

CIT is a leading national bank focused on empowering businesses and personal savers with the financial agility to navigate their goals. CIT Group Inc. (NYSE: CIT) is a financial holding company with over a century of experience, approximately $50 billion in assets as of Sept. 30, 2018, and operates a principal bank subsidiary, CIT Bank, N.A. (Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender). The company's commercial banking segment includes commercial financing, real estate financing, equipment financing, factoring and railcar financing. CIT's consumer banking segment includes its national online bank, CIT Bank, and a Southern California branch bank, OneWest Bank. Discover more at cit.com/about.

About Anchor Health Properties

Anchor Health Properties is a national, full-service healthcare real estate development, management, leasing, and investment firm serving investors and health systems. Anchor takes a strategic approach to navigating the extremely competitive healthcare marketplace, considering multiple angles, such as retail drivers, customer experience, branding and efficiency of the project. We develop and manage projects across the United States that respond to the new landscape of employed physicians, team-based care, the need to optimize assets and reduce duplication, and the integration of care and technology. Anchor manages and leases over four million square feet of medical office space, inclusive of numerous projects under construction. Anchor maintains twelve offices nationally and features nearly 60 professionals in its ranks. Over the past five years, Anchor principals have acquired and/or developed over $3 billion of medical real estate across the country. Healthcare today calls not only for new and more efficient ways of delivering outpatient services, but also a different kind of healthcare development and management company. For more information, please visit: www.anchorhealthproperties.com.

CIT MEDIA RELATIONS:

John M. Moran

212-461-5507

[email protected]

SOURCE CIT Group Inc.

Related Links

http://www.cit.com

The senator lists dozens of books in response to The Times questions, and answers in a way that makes it clear hes actually read them. But its what Sasse doesnt read that raised my hackles. In response to the question, Are there genres you avoid? Sasse answered: I intentionally read no modern fiction. I wish it werent so, but life is short, work is full and kids are under our roof for only a short time. When I read fiction, I want a community of discourse to vouch for the fact that its already stood the test of time.GOLDEN, Colo., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- In partnership with GenNx360 Capital Partners, CRS Temporary Housing ("CRS") merged with Klein & Company ("Klein & Co.") on November 30, 2018.

Founded in 1995 and based in Golden, Colorado, Klein & Co. provides hotel accommodations and fully furnished temporary housing for families who have been displaced from their homes. Klein & Co. has an experienced and dedicated staff supporting policyholders and insurance adjusters across the U.S. Thanks to this staff, the company has developed a strong reputation in the market for its outstanding customer service.

"This is an exciting day for the CRS family as this merger will further solidify our position as one of the market leaders in the industry," said Chris Hunter, CEO of CRS. "Klein & Co. has been a well-respected competitor for many years and we are enthusiastic about the possibilities of joining forces to better serve all our clients."

Jackie Harris, Founder and CEO of Klein & Co. added, "This transaction represents an attractive opportunity to combine two well-aligned industry-leading organizations focused on customer service and policyholder satisfaction."

"Since partnering with CRS in early 2018, the team has been highly focused on further expanding our share of the market both organically and inorganically. This transaction is a testament to the team's commitment to executing on that inorganic growth strategy", said Monty Yort, CRS Board member and Managing Partner at GenNx360, an investor in CRS.

About CRS Temporary Housing

CRS is a leading provider of professionalized relocation and temporary housing solutions to the insurance industry. Founded in 1989, CRS sources a wide variety of hotel, housing, furniture, housewares and equipment services to meet the unique needs of each policyholder. For more information on CRS, please visit http://www.crsth.com.

About GenNx360 Capital Partners

GenNx360 Capital Partners is a private equity firm focused on acquiring middle market business services and industrial companies. We invest in companies with proven and sustainable business models in expanding industries with the objective of implementing the required operating changes to deliver cost efficiencies, accelerate growth, and generate strong financial returns. Target industries include industrial machinery and components, logistics and supply chain solutions, industrial and environmental services, food and agricultural products and services, infrastructure equipment and services, specialty chemicals, packaging, and aerospace and defense. GenNx360 was founded in 2006 and is headquartered in New York City. For more information on GenNx360 Capital Partners, please visit http://www.gennx360.com.

For media inquiries about this press release, please contact:

GenNx360 Capital Partners

Carmen Rojas, Director of Investor Relations

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +1 212.257.6772

SOURCE GenNx360 Capital Partners

Related Links

http://www.gennx360.com

Pyrography, also called woodburning, involves the use of a heated pen to "burn" designs and pictures into furniture, cabinets, boxes and other wood pieces such as the basswood plate shown in the photo here.

The Peter Child Artist's Pyrography Machine from Robert Sorby was used to "burn" the image into the plate, and then color was added to the burned pattern. This is the perfect tool to learn woodburning. Woodcraft Product Manager Ben Bice describes it as "one of the best plug and play pyrography machines on the market and super easy to use."

Butz Carving and Detail Knives are an extraordinary value for beginning to experienced woodcarvers. Made in Germany exclusively for Woodcraft, these knives provide carvers with carving tools that are easier to hold, more efficient in cutting, and safer to use.

The Danish Art of Whittling Snitte, a 128-page book by Danish woodsman Frank Egholm, introduces whittling through templates and instructions for creating small birds.

Knife Making

Use the Camillus HT-7 Fixed Blade Knife Kit to make a custom knife as a gift  or give the kit as a gift. The HT-7, a perfect knife for use in the outdoors, is constructed from 5/32" Titanium Bonded cutlery-grade steel through-hardened to hold an edge.

For the chefs on your list, pair a ZHEN Premium 67-Layer Damascus Steel Knife Blank with your preference in handle material to create a custom "parer" or paring knife with a 3-5/16" long blade. Blanks are also available for a cleaver and nakiri, chef's, santoku and bread knives. Handle material comes a wide range of woods.

Working Efficiently

For the home maintenance and repair experts on your list, consider one of the following tools.

The Kreg Mobile Project Center (KWS1000) is a workbench, sawhorse, assembly table, and clamping station all in one that provides a versatile, sturdy work space for DIY, repair, and woodworking projects.

Light up a work area with the Stonepoint Rechargeable 1200-Lumen LED Work Light that provides 1200 lumens (high) or 600 lumens (low) of natural white light.

Great for household and shop refinishing projects, the Porter-Cable Restorer Handheld Drum Sander with Attachments is designed to remove paint and finish from wood, brick, and fiberglass, as well as remove rust and polish metal.

The Kapro 946 Smarty Level has an accuracy rate up to 0.0005" (0.5mm) and gradient lines for measurements up to 2 percent. Level is only 4" and clips onto your belt.

Simple to use and clean, the HOMERIGHT Finish Max HVLP Sprayer will spray most solvent and water-based products  latex paint, milk paint, chalk paint, furniture paint, stains and finishes.

To learn more about these and other products, visit your local Woodcraft store, call (800) 535-4482 or visit www.woodcraft.com.

SOURCE Woodcraft

Related Links

https://www.woodcraft.com

The General Plan of China Food and Drug Administration for Key Laboratories (2018-2020) issued by the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA) in the first half of 2018 proposed forming a key laboratory system for food and drug regulation that has a reasonable layout, specific tasks, close collaboration, and efficient operation by 2020. Therefore, the market demand for scientific instruments and laboratory equipment in the pharmaceutical field is expected to experience continual, explosive growth.

LABWorld China 2019 will join hands with CPhI & bioLIVE China 2019, to attract over 50,000 professional visitors from the pharmaceutical industry from over 120 countries and regions to join the highly influential laboratory instrument event, and connect over 3,200 upstream and downstream pharmaceutical enterprises.

LABWorld China, a leader in the Asian laboratory instrument exhibitions, has been committed to providing a round-the-clock, one-stop trade platform for the pharmaceutical industry since first launching in 2010. It has received consistent praise from Chinese and overseas well-known enterprises, by depending on the unique advantages of high internationalization, and content that covers the full industrial chain.

Scale of 2019 exhibition to be fully upgraded; Chinese and overseas excellent brands to join the event

The scale of LABWorld China will be fully upgraded in 2019, wherein, international well-known enterprises will be located in Hall N1, and excellent Chinese brands will gather in Hall W5. Hall N1 & Hall W5 is connected by the E2 Entrance Hall, which will not only satisfy different demands of visitors by providing a total solution, but also create a more precise and deeper communication platform for Chinese and overseas instrument brands and promote R&D, inspection and analytical technique development of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology field.

To explore and create unlimited business opportunities through diverse supporting conferences and activities

LABWorld China successfully held several conferences and activities in 2018, such as Drug Safety and Quality Management Forum, Hot Topic Discussion on Pharm Lab and Supply Chain, Microbe and Medium Risk Detection and Quality Control Forum, and InnoLAB Salon. Those conferences and activities focused on hot topics and the latest policies of the industry and provided a first-class platform for pharmaceutical R&D and QA/QC personnel, and laboratory peers to share knowledge, expand connections, and establish cooperation. The 2019 exhibition will create more diversified topic contents and build brand-new participation and visiting experiences for exhibitors and buyers.

LABWorld China 2019

June 18-20, 2019 | Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC)

http://en.pmecchina.com/

SOURCE Shanghai UBM Sinoexpo International Exhibition Co., Ltd

Related Links

http://en.pmecchina.com/

RALEIGH, N.C., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Business Journal recognized the fastest growing private companies in the region. The Research Triangle is a highly competitive market for Life Science and Technology companies. The Triangle is also home to many investment funds and incubators for start-ups. This competitive environment makes it hard to stand out when so many companies are performing well. The Fast 50 winners were selected and ranked based on a formula that counts revenue and profitability in the preceding three years. The numbers are crunched and analyzed by PricewaterhouseCoopers. "Beyond bolstering the top-line performance and a nose for profitability, this list of companies represents the dynamic economic fabric of the Triangle," says Jason Christie, publisher of the TBJ. "We have a mixture of private firms that have made this list for years, and we have companies making this list for the first time. Collectively, they reflect the best of the best."

History was made again -- when it was announced that Mako Medical had won the top spot for the 3rd year in a row. A feat that has never happened anywhere in the country before. This is the second time Mako Medical has broken the record by being ranked #1 -- making them the only company in America to achieve this in the history of the awards. Mako Medical Laboratories has experienced explosive growth in the last few years and has quickly become a national favorite for over 50,000 medical providers around the country. Last year, Mako Medical became the first company ever to win Life Science Awards two years in a row. That same year, Mako Medical was also ranked as a Best Place to Work and announced a massive expansion with a new testing facility.

When asked about how Mako was achieving such growth Chad Price, President of Mako Medical answered with one word, "impact." Chad went on to explain that the entire purpose behind the creation of Mako Medical was to create funding for local nonprofits/charities, to employ military veterans, and to support Christian missionaries around the world. "It is why we do what we do. Some companies are focused on shareholder value. Others are focused on returns for their investors. We are focused on making an impact in other peoples' lives. The more we grow, the more people we can help. The more revenue we have -- the more funding we have to work with," says Chad. Today, Mako Medical supports over 472 different charities around the country, employs hundreds of military veterans, and supports over 80 Christian missionaries from Syria to Nigeria.

Mako Medical Laboratories is an award-winning laboratory with operations in over 12 states. Mako utilizes automation and robotics to complete some of the most difficult and rare diagnostic tests. Mako is known for its extensive community service, supporting over 400 local nonprofits and charities, hiring hundreds of military veterans and supporting over 80 international missionaries.

Josh Arant

[email protected]

Related Images

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image4.jpg

SOURCE Business North CarolinaNational Historic Landmarks are the highest level of recognition. According to National Park Service (NPS) criteria: "The quality of national significance is ascribed to districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that possess exceptional value or quality in illustrating or interpreting the heritage of the United States in history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture and that possess a high degree of integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association."

"I am very proud that my family's original factory in Nazareth has been selected for National Historic Landmark status," said Chris Martin, Chairman and CEO. "For well over 100 years, this facility produced many of the guitars, ukuleles, and mandolins used by professionals and amateur musicians across the U.S. and around the world. The music made on Martin instruments was and is a very significant part of musical culture for generations."

C. F. Martin Sr. left his homeland of Markneukirchen, Germany, in 1833 and emigrated to the United States, where his family settled in New York City. He set up shop at 196 Hudson Street on the Lower West Side, where the earliest Martin guitars were made. The modest structure included limited guitar production in the back room with a retail store up front, selling everything from cornets to sheet music.

A few years later, C. F. Martin's wife traveled to eastern Pennsylvania and instantly fell in love with the tranquil countryside that reminded her of home. Upon returning to New York, she convinced her husband to make the big move, and, in 1839, he sold his retail store in New York City and moved to Cherry Hill, Pa., located on the outskirts of of Nazareth.

In 1856, the Moravians opened the town of Nazareth to outsiders and agreed to sell land within its borders. In 1857, Martin purchased the block of land at North and Main Streets and began building what would become this historic landmark. The North Street plant, with its multistory construction and numerous additions, was operational through 1964, when, to keep up with rising demand, the company moved to a new facility at 510 Sycamore Street, Nazareth, Pa., where it still operates today.

About Martin Guitars and Strings

C.F. Martin & Co. has been Inspiring Musicians Worldwide for 185 years with their superior guitar and string products. Martin guitars and strings remain the choice for musicians around the world for their unrivaled quality, craftsmanship, and tone. Throughout the company's long history, Martin products can be seen and heard across all genres of music and in all segments of pop culture, from concert and theater stages to television and movies.

With an unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible manufacturing practices, Martin continually drives the acoustic guitar market forward, introducing innovative features that have become standards across the industry. These groundbreaking innovations include the introduction of X-bracing, the 14-fret guitar, and the "Dreadnought" size guitar.

Martin has also led innovations in strings, such as introducing the first high-tensile strength steel-string core wire; the first nickel acoustic strings (Martin Retro); the proprietary Titanium Core strings; and now the groundbreaking, new Authentic Acoustic line, which offers unmatched stability, tone, comfort, and longevity. Learn more here: www.martinguitar.com/aa.

Connect with Martin Guitars and Martin Strings on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and YouTube, and via www.martinguitar.com.

SOURCE C.F. Martin & Co.

Related Links

http://martinguitar.com

"This is an exciting time for rum, and as a rum guy, I knew I had to be a part of this project," said Michael B. Jordan. "Rum has always been a part of my life. My grandmother made her famous rum cakes which were only ever made with BACARDI  so I feel a special connection to the brand. It's been a pleasure to work with my friend and mentor Paul Hunter and the entire team to bring my creative vision to 'The Angel's Share.'"

Conceptualized by Jordan and Hunter, the artfully crafted film follows three characters  a Maestro de Ron, a bartender and a Bacardi family member  who each tell their own version of the angel's share story. The new campaign seeks to educate consumers on how rum is crafted through the immersive Latin Caribbean inspired story. "The Angel's Share" film is part of Jordan's latest effort to step behind the camera and develop a short film that creatively sheds light on the BACARDI premium aging process.

"We first connected with Michael last year when he attended No Commission  our art platform in partnership with The Dean Collection. When it came time to produce 'The Angel's Share' film, we knew he was the perfect person to get behind the camera to tell our story," said Roberto Ramirez Laverde, Vice President, BACARDI for North America. "Watching Michael on set during the shoot was amazing  he has an eye for storytelling and was extremely adept at bringing the story to life."

In April, as part of the premium portfolio, BACARDI, the world's most awarded rum, launched BACARDI Anejo Cuatro and BACARDI Gran Reserva Diez to join the pre-existing BACARDI Gran Reserva Limitada, along with the redesign and repackaging of the private family blend BACARDI Reserva Ocho. Each of the exceptional liquids in the portfolio provides a new way to enjoy BACARDI, introducing a more sophisticated, complex side of rum.

"The Angel's Share" campaign, which was developed by BBDO New York, launched today and will run throughout a variety of digital channels, targeted towards super premium environments, including connected TV (NFL, DirectTV, Turner, Sling, ESPN), YouTube (Vevo, Conde Nast, Complex) and full episode players (Hulu, ABC, CBS, NBC, Univision). Out-of-home will run in markets including New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington D.C. and Atlanta. Social vignettes will live on the BACARDI owned channels, as well as Michael B. Jordan's Instagram, where he shared content from the campaign earlier today.

To view "The Angel's Share" films, visit https://bit.ly/2RqzVcZ.

For more information on BACARDI rum and cocktail recipes, visit www.BACARDI.com.

About BACARDI Rum  The World's Most Awarded Rum

In 1862, in the city of Santiago de Cuba, founder Don Facundo Bacardi Masso revolutionized the spirits industry when he created a light-bodied rum with a particularly smooth taste  BACARDI. The unique taste of BACARDI rum inspired cocktail pioneers to invent some of the world's most famous recipes including the BACARDI Mojito, the BACARDI Daiquiri, the BACARDI Cuba Libre, the BACARDI Pina Colada and the BACARDI El Presidente. BACARDI rum is the world's most awarded spirit, with more than 800 awards for quality, taste and innovation. Today, BACARDI rum is made mainly in Puerto Rico where it is crafted to ensure the taste remains the same today as it did when it was first blended in 1862. www.bacardi.com

The BACARDI brand is part of the portfolio of Bacardi Limited, headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited.

LIVE PASSIONATELY. DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

SOURCE BACARDI

Related Links

http://www.bacardi.com

WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Three crew members are adjusting to life on the International Space Station after a successful launch and docking of their Russian Soyuz MS-11 spacecraft Monday.

The Soyuz carrying Anne McClain of NASA, David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency, and Oleg Konenenko of Roscosmos launched at 6:31 a.m. EST (5:31 p.m. Baikonur time) from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. McClain, Saint-Jacques and Konenenko docked to the space station's Poisk module at 12:33 p.m. after a four-orbit, six-hour journey, and opened the hatch between the two spacecraft at 2:37 p.m.

The arrival briefly restores the station's crew complement to six as they join Serena Aunon-Chancellor of NASA, Expedition 57 Commander Alexander Gerst of ESA (European Space Agency) and Sergey Prokopyev of the Russian space agency Roscosmos. Aunon-Chancellor, Gerst and Prokopyev are scheduled to remain aboard the station until Dec. 20. Expedition 58 officially begins once the three departing spacefarers undock from the space station.

McClain, Saint-Jacques and Konenenko will spend more than six months conducting hundreds of science investigations in fields such as biology, Earth science, human research, physical sciences and technology development, providing the foundation for continuing human spaceflight beyond low-Earth orbit to the Moon and Mars. Some of the investigations they will conduct are sponsored by the U.S. National Laboratory on the space station, which Congress designated in 2005 to maximize its use for improving quality of life on Earth. Highlights of upcoming investigations include experiments in forest observation, robotic refueling, and satellite deployment.

The crew is scheduled to be onboard during the first test flights of NASA's Commercial Crew Program, which will return human spaceflight launches to U.S. soil.

In March, the station will again return to a full complement of six crew members when they are joined for Expedition 59 by NASA astronauts Nick Hague and Christina Koch and Alexey Ovchinin of Roscosmos.

This is the first spaceflight for both McClain and Saint-Jacques and the fourth trip to the space station for Konenenko.

McClain, a native of Spokane, Washington, is a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army. As a senior army aviator, she has logged more than 2,000 hours in 20 different rotary and fixed-wing aircraft.

She earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical and aeronautical engineering from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. She earned a master's degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Bath, England, and a master's degree in international relations from the University of Bristol, also in England.

For more than 18 years, humans have lived and worked continuously aboard the station, advancing scientific knowledge and demonstrating new technologies, making research breakthroughs not possible on Earth that will enable long-duration human and robotic exploration to the Moon and Mars. A global endeavor, more than 200 people from 18 countries have visited the unique microgravity laboratory that has hosted more than 2,500 research investigations from researchers in 106 countries.

Follow McClain on her space mission at:

https://twitter.com/AstroAnnimal

Get breaking news, images and features from the space station on social media at:

https://instagram.com/iss

https://www.facebook.com/ISS

https://www.twitter.com/Space_Station

and

https://www.twitter.com/ISS_Research

SOURCE NASA

Related Links

http://www.nasa.gov

BELLEVUE, Wash., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Paul Gauguin Cruises (www.pgcruises.com), operator of the highest-rated and longest continually sailing luxury cruise ship in the South Pacific, the m/s Paul Gauguin, is offering a holiday bonus of up to $400 Shipboard Credit on balcony staterooms on select 2019 and 2020 voyages when booked by December 31, 2018. As an additional holiday gift, deposits have been reduced to $250 per person.

Shipboard Credit can be used to indulge in a spa treatment in Deep Nature Spa, purchase a souvenir in La Boutique, book a shore excursion aboard The Gauguin, and more. Shipboard Credit varies by balcony stateroom category:

$250 Shipboard Credit per balcony stateroom, categories C and D on select sailings

Shipboard Credit per balcony stateroom, categories C and D on select sailings $400 Shipboard Credit per balcony stateroom, categories B and above on select sailings

Additionally, Paul Gauguin Cruises is offering savings of 50% off standard all-inclusive cruise fares on all voyages, plus included airfare from Los Angeles.

For additional information on Paul Gauguin Cruises, please contact a Travel Professional, call 800-848-6172, or visit www.pgcruises.com.

New bookings only. Offer may be combined with applicable 3rd guest in stateroom offer and applicable past guest savings but may not be combinable with other offers. Port, security, and handling charges are $149-$295 additional. Reduced-rate deposit of $250 per person is refundable less a $100 administration fee. Solo travelers who pay the full supplement receive 100% of the Shipboard Credit for their stateroom category; all others receive 50% of the value per stateroom. Shipboard Credit amount is determined by balcony stateroom category. Shipboard Credits used for shore excursions must be booked on board at time of sailing. Offer ends December 31, 2018. Voyages excluded from this promotion are the April 13; September 7, 21, 2019, sailings. Call for details.

About Paul Gauguin Cruises

Owned by Pacific Beachcomber S.C., French Polynesia's leading luxury hotel and cruise operator, Paul Gauguin Cruises operates the 5+-star cruise ship, the 332-guest m/s Paul Gauguin, providing a deluxe cruise experience tailored to the unparalleled wonders of Tahiti, French Polynesia, and the South Pacific. Paul Gauguin Cruises has been recognized by notable publications in travel and lifestyle and was voted "#2 Midsize-Ship Ocean Cruise Line" by readers in the Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2018. The line was also recognized as one of the "Top Small Cruise Lines" in the Conde Nast Traveler 2018 Readers' Choice Awards and is honored on the publication's 2018 "Gold List." Paul Gauguin Cruises was also selected as "Best Small-Ship Cruise Line" in Global Traveler's Leisure Lifestyle Awards in 2016, 2017, and 2018, and received top honors as the "#1 Cruise Line for Honeymooners" in BRIDES Magazine's 2017 Honeymoon Awards and was listed in the publication's "Top All-Inclusives" in the 2018 Honeymoon Awards.

Media Contact:

Vanessa Bloy

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Director of Public Relations

(425) 440-6255

[email protected]

From Travel + Leisure Magazine, August 2018  Time Inc. Affluent Media Group. Used under license. Travel + Leisure and Time Inc. Affluent Media Group are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of, Paul Gauguin Cruises.

SOURCE Paul Gauguin Cruises

Related Links

http://www.pgcruises.com

New Orders, Production, and Employment Growing

Supplier Deliveries Slowing at Slower Rate; Backlog Growing

Raw Materials Inventories Growing; Customers' Inventories Too Low

Prices Increasing at Slower Rate; Exports and Imports Growing

TEMPE, Ariz., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Economic activity in the manufacturing sector expanded in November, and the overall economy grew for the 115th consecutive month, say the nation's supply executives in the latest Manufacturing ISM Report On Business.

The report was issued today by Timothy R. Fiore, CPSM, C.P.M., Chair of the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Manufacturing Business Survey Committee: "The November PMI registered 59.3 percent, an increase of 1.6 percentage points from the October reading of 57.7 percent. The New Orders Index registered 62.1 percent, an increase of 4.7 percentage points from the October reading of 57.4 percent. The Production Index registered 60.6 percent, a 0.7 percentage-point increase compared to the October reading of 59.9 percent. The Employment Index registered 58.4 percent, an increase of 1.6 percentage points from the October reading of 56.8 percent. The Supplier Deliveries Index registered 62.5 percent, a 1.3-percentage point decrease from the October reading of 63.8 percent. The Inventories Index registered 52.9 percent, an increase of 2.2 percentage points from the October reading of 50.7 percent. The Prices Index registered 60.7 percent, a 10.9-percentage point decrease from the October reading of 71.6 percent, indicating higher raw materials prices for the 33rd consecutive month.

"Comments from the panel reflect continued expanding business strength. Demand remains strong, with the New Orders Index rebounding to above 60 percent, the Customers' Inventories Index declining and remaining too low, and the Backlog of Orders Index steady. Consumption strengthened, with production and employment continuing to expand, both at higher levels compared to October. Inputs  expressed as supplier deliveries, inventories and imports  gained as a result of inventory growth. Supplier delivery easing improved factory consumption as well as inventory growth, and import expansion was relatively stable. Lead-time extensions continue, while steel and aluminum prices are declining. Supplier labor issues and transportation difficulties are at more manageable levels, but they continue to limit production potential.

"The expansion of new export orders was stable and at a recent historical low. However, four of six major industries contributed, down from five in October. Prices pressure continues, but at notably lower levels than in prior periods. The manufacturing community continues to expand, with November adding positively to the three-month rolling PMI average," says Fiore.

Of the 18 manufacturing industries, 13 reported growth in November, in the following order: Computer & Electronic Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Paper Products; Textile Mills; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Machinery; Transportation Equipment; Chemical Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Furniture & Related Products; and Petroleum & Coal Products. The three industries reporting contraction in November are: Printing & Related Support Activities; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; and Primary Metals.

WHAT RESPONDENTS ARE SAYING

"Shortages, longer lead times and capacity constraints [particularly in the electronic components marketplace] and tariffs continue to strain the supply chain and disrupt normal business practices and activities." (Computer & Electronic Products)

"Seeing a number [of] areas of slowdown that are concerning: truck market loosening [and] ISO depots full of empty containers, all signs of decreasing business activity." (Chemical Products)

"Production continues at increased levels." (Transportation Equipment)

"Labor shortages in our area are affecting production volumes." (Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products)

"Trade tariffs and commodity increases have greatly affected our ability to remain competitive in the market." (Machinery)

"Business [orders] steady. Many customers [moving] orders up due to price increases [from commodity costs and tariffs]." (Furniture & Related Products)

"Business remains strong. Tariffs impact is fully reflected in Q3 results, and initiatives are underway to move work out of China into other low-cost countries." (Miscellaneous Manufacturing)

into other low-cost countries." (Miscellaneous Manufacturing) "A lack of experienced workers is having an impact on production, which impacts sourcing due to the skills gap in the manufacturing trades; particularly computer numeric controlled machinists, but also assemblers and welders. The challenge is meeting customer-delivery requirements for new and repaired equipment." (Fabricated Metal Products)

"Steel tariffs continue to put upward pressure on downstream materials (even when sourcing steel domestically). Long-haul trucking market seems to be normalizing after the implementation of the electronic logging requirements. Oil volatility is also beginning to make its way through downstream materials." (Petroleum & Coal Products)

"Continuing to increase imports in order to receive material in by the end of the year to avoid potential 25-percent tariffs." (Nonmetallic Mineral Products)

MANUFACTURING AT A GLANCE November 2018 Index Series

Index Nov Series

Index Oct Percentage

Point

Change Direction Rate of

Change Trend*

(Months) PMI 59.3 57.7 +1.6 Growing Faster 27 New Orders 62.1 57.4 +4.7 Growing Faster 35 Production 60.6 59.9 +0.7 Growing Faster 27 Employment 58.4 56.8 +1.6 Growing Faster 26 Supplier Deliveries 62.5 63.8 -1.3 Slowing Slower 26 Inventories 52.9 50.7 +2.2 Growing Faster 11 Customers' Inventories 41.5 43.3 -1.8 Too Low Faster 26 Prices 60.7 71.6 -10.9 Increasing Slower 33 Backlog of Orders 56.4 55.8 +0.6 Growing Faster 22 New Export Orders 52.2 52.2 0.0 Growing Same 33 Imports 53.6 54.3 -0.7 Growing Slower 22 OVERALL ECONOMY Growing Faster 115 Manufacturing Sector Growing Faster 27

Manufacturing ISM Report On Business data is seasonally adjusted for the New Orders, Production, Employment and Supplier Deliveries Indexes.

*Number of months moving in current direction.

COMMODITIES REPORTED UP/DOWN IN PRICE AND IN SHORT SUPPLY

Commodities Up in Price

Aluminum* (25); Capacitors; Electrical Components; Electronic Components (4); Hydraulic Components; Methanol (2); Nylon (6); Plastic-Based Products; Resistors (2); Scrap Metal (2); Steel* (3); Steel  Stainless (8); and Steel-Based Products (7).

Commodities Down in Price

Aluminum* (2); Caustic Soda (2); Copper Products; Steel* (3); Steel  Cold Rolled (2); and Steel  Hot Rolled (3).

Commodities in Short Supply

Capacitors (17); Electrical Components; Electronic Components (7); Printed Circuit Board Components (2); Resistors (13); Silicone; and Steel-Based Products (2).

The number of consecutive months the commodity is listed is indicated after each item.

*Indicates both up and down in price.

NOVEMBER 2018 MANUFACTURING INDEX SUMMARIES

PMI 

Manufacturing expanded in November as the PMI registered 59.3 percent, an increase of 1.6 percentage points from the October reading of 57.7 percent. "This indicates growth in manufacturing for the 27th consecutive month, led by strong new orders, production output and continued slowing supplier delivery performance," says Fiore. A reading above 50 percent indicates that the manufacturing economy is generally expanding; below 50 percent indicates that it is generally contracting.

A PMI above 43.2 percent, over a period of time, generally indicates an expansion of the overall economy. Therefore, the November PMI indicates growth for the 115th consecutive month in the overall economy and the 27th straight month of growth in the manufacturing sector. "The past relationship between the PMI and the overall economy indicates that the PMI for November (59.3 percent) corresponds to a 4.9-percent increase in real gross domestic product (GDP) on an annualized basis."

THE LAST 12 MONTHS

Month PMI

Month PMI Nov 2018 59.3

May 2018 58.7 Oct 2018 57.7

Apr 2018 57.3 Sep 2018 59.8

Mar 2018 59.3 Aug 2018 61.3

Feb 2018 60.8 Jul 2018 58.1

Jan 2018 59.1 Jun 2018 60.2

Dec 2017 59.3 Average for 12 months  59.2 High  61.3 Low  57.3

New Orders

ISM's New Orders Index registered 62.1 percent in November, which is an increase of 4.7 percentage points when compared to the 57.4 percent reported for October, indicating growth in new orders for the 35th consecutive month. "Customer demand expansion reversed two consecutive months of softening, with the index returning above 60 percent and recording its highest value since August 2018, when it registered 65.1 percent," says Fiore. A New Orders Index above 52.4 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Census Bureau's series on manufacturing orders (in constant 2000 dollars).

Eleven of 18 industries reported growth in new orders in November, in the following order: Furniture & Related Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Plastics & Rubber Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Paper Products; Textile Mills; Machinery; Chemical Products; Transportation Equipment; and Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products. The four industries reporting a decrease in new orders in November are: Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Petroleum & Coal Products; and Fabricated Metal Products.

New Orders %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index Nov 2018 31.0 55.0 14.0 +17.0 62.1 Oct 2018 27.2 54.5 18.3 +8.9 57.4 Sep 2018 31.4 57.7 10.9 +20.5 61.8 Aug 2018 35.4 54.3 10.3 +25.1 65.1

Production

ISM's Production Index registered 60.6 percent in November, which is an increase of 0.7 percentage point when compared to the 59.9 percent reported for October, indicating growth in production for the 27th consecutive month. "Production expansion continued in November, and at higher expansion rates compared to October. Transportation variables, labor constraints and tariffs appear to be less impactful, but lead-time expansions persist," says Fiore. An index above 51.5 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Federal Reserve Board's Industrial Production figures.

The 11 industries reporting growth in production during the month of November  listed in order  are: Plastics & Rubber Products; Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Paper Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Machinery; Transportation Equipment; Chemical Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Primary Metals. The three industries reporting a decrease in production in November are: Printing & Related Support Activities; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; and Fabricated Metal Products.

Production %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index Nov 2018 30.6 56.8 12.6 +18.0 60.6 Oct 2018 28.2 60.7 11.2 +17.0 59.9 Sep 2018 33.6 56.7 9.6 +24.0 63.9 Aug 2018 35.3 53.8 10.9 +24.4 63.3

Employment

ISM's Employment Index registered 58.4 percent in November, an increase of 1.6 percentage points when compared to the October reading of 56.8 percent. This indicates growth in employment in November for the 26th consecutive month. "Employment continued to expand, supporting production growth. Respondents continued to note labor-market issues as a constraint to their suppliers' production capability," says Fiore. An Employment Index above 50.8 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data on manufacturing employment.

Of the 18 manufacturing industries, the 10 reporting employment growth in November  listed in order  are: Computer & Electronic Products; Furniture & Related Products; Paper Products; Chemical Products; Transportation Equipment; Petroleum & Coal Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; and Machinery. The four industries reporting a decrease in employment in November are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Primary Metals; and Fabricated Metal Products.

Employment %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index Nov 2018 22.7 69.1 8.2 +14.5 58.4 Oct 2018 22.5 67.2 10.3 +12.2 56.8 Sep 2018 26.1 62.9 11.0 +15.1 58.8 Aug 2018 26.6 63.6 9.8 +16.8 58.5

Supplier Deliveries

The delivery performance of suppliers to manufacturing organizations slowed in November, as the Supplier Deliveries Index registered 62.5 percent. This is 1.3 percentage points lower than the 63.8 percent reported for October. "This is the 26th straight month of slowing supplier deliveries and indicates supply chains' difficulty in keeping up with production demand. Lead times continue to extend, supply chain labor issues continue to restrict performance, and transportation issues are continuing to limit supplier execution. However, levels are more manageable than in prior periods," says Fiore. A reading below 50 percent indicates faster deliveries, while a reading above 50 percent indicates slower deliveries.

The 11 industries reporting slower supplier deliveries in November  listed in order  are: Computer & Electronic Products; Machinery; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Transportation Equipment; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Fabricated Metal Products; Chemical Products; and Paper Products. The only industry reporting faster supplier deliveries in November is Primary Metals. Six industries reported no change in supplier deliveries in November.

Supplier Deliveries %Slower %Same %Faster Net Index Nov 2018 25.9 70.2 3.9 +22.0 62.5 Oct 2018 30.4 66.9 2.7 +27.7 63.8 Sep 2018 28.3 67.1 4.6 +23.7 61.1 Aug 2018 32.6 62.9 4.5 +28.1 64.5

Inventories*

The Inventories Index registered 52.9 percent in November, an increase of 2.2 percentage points from the 50.7 percent reported for October. "Inventories expanded for the 11th consecutive month, keeping pace with production and growing slightly as a result of improved supplier deliveries," says Fiore. An Inventories Index greater than 43 percent, over time, is generally consistent with expansion in the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) figures on overall manufacturing inventories (in chained 2000 dollars).

The nine industries reporting higher inventories in November  listed in order  are: Wood Products; Textile Mills; Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Paper Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Fabricated Metal Products; and Machinery. The five industries reporting a decrease in inventories in November are: Printing & Related Support Activities; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Furniture & Related Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing.

Inventories %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index Nov 2018 23.4 59.0 17.6 +5.8 52.9 Oct 2018 18.8 63.6 17.5 +1.3 50.7 Sep 2018 20.6 65.4 14.0 +6.6 53.3 Aug 2018 25.2 60.4 14.5 +10.7 55.4

Customers' Inventories*

ISM's Customers' Inventories Index registered 41.5 percent in November, which is 1.8 percentage points lower than the 43.3 percent reported for October, indicating that customers' inventory levels were considered too low. "Customers' inventory levels are too low for the 26th consecutive month, reflecting a positive outlook for future production output," says Fiore.

The only industry reporting customers' inventories as too high during the month of November is Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components. The 11 industries reporting customers' inventories as too low during November  listed in order  are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Primary Metals; Paper Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Machinery; Chemical Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; and Plastics & Rubber Products.

Customers'

Inventories %

Reporting %Too

High %About

Right %Too

Low Net Index Nov 2018 79 8.9 65.1 26.0 -17.1 41.5 Oct 2018 79 10.1 66.4 23.5 -13.4 43.3 Sep 2018 79 6.0 69.0 25.0 -19.0 40.5 Aug 2018 82 7.8 66.5 25.7 -17.9 41.0

Prices*

The ISM Prices Index registered 60.7 percent in November, a decrease of 10.9 percentage points from the October reading of 71.6 percent, indicating an increase in raw materials prices for the 33rd consecutive month. "The price increases across all industry sectors continue, but at sharply lower levels compared to prior months. This is the lowest month of price expansion since June 2017, when the index registered 53 points. The Business Survey Committee noted that price increases are continuing to soften and/or decline in metals (all steels, copper and aluminum). Increases continue for methanol, freight, labor, electrical and electronic components, printed circuit board assemblies and products manufactured primarily from steel. Shortages continue in electrical and most electronic components, and fabricated and machined components. Freight, aluminum, steel and caustic soda prices are down," says Fiore. A Prices Index above 52.4 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Producer Price Index for Intermediate Materials.

Thirteen of the 18 industries reported paying increased prices for raw materials in November, in the following order: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Machinery; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Chemical Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Textile Mills; Computer & Electronic Products; Paper Products; Transportation Equipment; Primary Metals; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; and Plastics & Rubber Products. The only industry reporting a decrease in prices for raw materials in November is Petroleum & Coal Products.

Prices %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index Nov 2018 32.0 57.3 10.7 +21.3 60.7 Oct 2018 51.1 41.0 7.9 +43.2 71.6 Sep 2018 42.3 49.1 8.6 +33.7 66.9 Aug 2018 51.1 42.0 6.8 +44.3 72.1

Backlog of Orders*

ISM's Backlog of Orders Index registered 56.4 percent in November, which is 0.6 percentage point higher than the 55.8 percent reported in October, indicating growth in order backlogs for the 22nd consecutive month. "Backlogs continued to grow at three-month rolling average levels and represent significant future production demand and are a positive indicator for Q1 2019," says Fiore.

The 10 industries reporting growth in order backlogs in November  listed in order  are: Furniture & Related Products; Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Paper Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Machinery; Chemical Products; and Transportation Equipment. The four industries reporting a decrease in order backlogs during November are: Printing & Related Support Activities; Plastics & Rubber Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; and Fabricated Metal Products.

Backlog of

Orders %

Reporting %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index Nov 2018 88 27.7 57.5 14.9 +12.8 56.4 Oct 2018 89 26.9 57.8 15.3 +11.6 55.8 Sep 2018 89 26.7 57.9 15.4 +11.3 55.7 Aug 2018 87 30.3 54.4 15.3 +15.0 57.5

New Export Orders*

ISM's New Export Orders Index registered 52.2 percent in November, unchanged from the October reading, indicating growth in new export orders for the 33rd consecutive month. "The index remained stable during the period, but at levels not seen since November 2016, when the index registered 51.8 points. Four of the six big industry sectors contributed to the expansion, down from five in October," says Fiore.

The eight industries reporting growth in new export orders in November  listed in order  are: Textile Mills; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Chemical Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Machinery. The three industries reporting a decrease in new export orders in November are: Printing & Related Support Activities; Fabricated Metal Products; and Transportation Equipment. Six industries reported no change in new export orders in November.

New Export

Orders %

Reporting %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index Nov 2018 81 12.9 78.6 8.4 +4.5 52.2 Oct 2018 80 12.3 79.7 8.0 +4.3 52.2 Sep 2018 80 19.4 73.3 7.3 +12.1 56.0 Aug 2018 79 20.7 69.1 10.2 +10.5 55.2

Imports *

ISM's Imports Index registered 53.6 percent in November, a decrease of 0.7 percentage point when compared to the 54.3 percent reported for October, indicating that imports grew in November for the 22nd consecutive month. "Imports expansion softened to its lowest level since June 2017, when the index registered 53.5 percent," says Fiore.

The 11 industries reporting growth in imports during the month of November  listed in order  are: Furniture & Related Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Textile Mills; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Machinery; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Chemical Products. The five industries reporting a decrease in imports during November are: Printing & Related Support Activities; Paper Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Primary Metals; and Transportation Equipment.

Imports %

Reporting %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index Nov 2018 83 18.7 69.8 11.5 +7.2 53.6 Oct 2018 86 17.6 73.5 8.9 +8.7 54.3 Sep 2018 85 19.4 70.2 10.4 +9.0 54.5 Aug 2018 87 17.2 73.6 9.3 +7.9 53.9

*The Inventories, Customers' Inventories, Prices, Backlog of Orders, New Export Orders and Imports Indexes do not meet the accepted criteria for seasonal adjustments.

Buying Policy

Average commitment lead time for Capital Expenditures decreased by two days in November to 150 days. Average lead time for Production Materials increased by one day to 68 days. Average lead time for Maintenance, Repair and Operating (MRO) Supplies decreased by two days to 33 days.

Percent Reporting















Capital

Expenditures Hand-to-

Mouth 30

Days 60

Days 90

Days 6

Months 1 Year+ Average

Days Nov 2018 19 5 9 22 22 23 150 Oct 2018 20 5 8 19 25 23 152 Sep 2018 19 7 10 19 23 22 147 Aug 2018 19 8 7 22 23 21 144















Production

Materials Hand-to-

Mouth 30

Days 60

Days 90

Days 6

Months 1 Year+ Average

Days Nov 2018 9 35 30 15 8 3 68 Oct 2018 13 32 26 18 8 3 67 Sep 2018 12 34 28 15 7 4 68 Aug 2018 11 36 27 14 8 4 69















MRO Supplies Hand-to-

Mouth 30

Days 60

Days 90

Days 6

Months 1 Year+ Average

Days Nov 2018 37 39 15 6 3 0 33 Oct 2018 37 39 14 7 2 1 35 Sep 2018 38 36 16 7 3 0 34 Aug 2018 41 37 15 4 2 1 33

About T his Report

DO NOT CONFUSE THIS NATIONAL REPORT with the various regional purchasing reports released across the country. The national report's information reflects the entire U.S., while the regional reports contain primarily regional data from their local vicinities. Also, the information in the regional reports is not used in calculating the results of the national report. The information compiled in this report is for the month of November 2018.

The data presented herein is obtained from a survey of manufacturing supply executives based on information they have collected within their respective organizations. ISM makes no representation, other than that stated within this release, regarding the individual company data collection procedures. The data should be compared to all other economic data sources when used in decision-making.

Data and Method of Presentation

The Manufacturing ISM Report On Business is based on data compiled from purchasing and supply executives nationwide. The composition of the Manufacturing Business Survey Committee is stratified according to the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) and each of the following NAICS-based industry's contribution to gross domestic product (GDP): Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Textile Mills; Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Wood Products; Paper Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Petroleum & Coal Products; Chemical Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Primary Metals; Fabricated Metal Products; Machinery; Computer & Electronic Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Transportation Equipment; Furniture & Related Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing (products such as medical equipment and supplies, jewelry, sporting goods, toys and office supplies). The data are weighted based on each industry's contribution to GDP. Beginning in January 2018, computation of the indexes is accomplished utilizing unrounded numbers.

Survey responses reflect the change, if any, in the current month compared to the previous month. For each of the indicators measured (New Orders, Backlog of Orders, New Export Orders, Imports, Production, Supplier Deliveries, Inventories, Customers' Inventories, Employment and Prices), this report shows the percentage reporting each response, the net difference between the number of responses in the positive economic direction (higher, better and slower for Supplier Deliveries) and the negative economic direction (lower, worse and faster for Supplier Deliveries), and the diffusion index. Responses are raw data and are never changed. The diffusion index includes the percent of positive responses plus one-half of those responding the same (considered positive).

The resulting single index number for those meeting the criteria for seasonal adjustments (PMI, New Orders, Production, Employment and Supplier Deliveries) is then seasonally adjusted to allow for the effects of repetitive intra-year variations resulting primarily from normal differences in weather conditions, various institutional arrangements, and differences attributable to non-moveable holidays. All seasonal adjustment factors are subject annually to relatively minor changes when conditions warrant them. The PMI is a composite index based on the diffusion indexes of five of the indexes with equal weights: New Orders (seasonally adjusted), Production (seasonally adjusted), Employment (seasonally adjusted), Supplier Deliveries (seasonally adjusted), and Inventories.

Diffusion indexes have the properties of leading indicators and are convenient summary measures showing the prevailing direction of change and the scope of change. A PMI reading above 50 percent indicates that the manufacturing economy is generally expanding; below 50 percent indicates that it is generally declining. A PMI above 43.2 percent, over a period of time, indicates that the overall economy, or gross domestic product (GDP), is generally expanding; below 43.2 percent, it is generally declining. The distance from 50 percent or 43.2 percent is indicative of the extent of the expansion or decline. With some of the indicators within this report, ISM has indicated the departure point between expansion and decline of comparable government series, as determined by regression analysis. The Manufacturing ISM Report On Business survey is sent out to Manufacturing Business Survey Committee respondents the first part of each month. Respondents are asked to ONLY report on information for the current month. ISM receives survey responses throughout most of any given month, with the majority of respondents generally waiting until late in the month to submit responses in order to give the most accurate picture of current business activity. ISM then compiles the report for release on the first business day of the following month.

The industries reporting growth, as indicated in the Manufacturing ISM Report On Business monthly report, are listed in the order of most growth to least growth. For the industries reporting contraction or decreases, those are listed in the order of the highest level of contraction/decrease to the least level of contraction/decrease.

Responses to Buying Policy reflect the percent reporting the current month's lead time, the approximate weighted number of days ahead for which commitments are made for Capital Expenditures; Production Materials; and Maintenance, Repair and Operating (MRO) Supplies, expressed as hand-to-mouth (five days), 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, six months (180 days), a year or more (360 days), and the weighted average number of days. These responses are raw data, never revised, and not seasonally adjusted since there is no significant seasonal pattern.

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About Institute for Supply Management 

Institute for Supply Management (ISM) serves supply management professionals in more than 90 countries. Its 50,000 members around the world manage about US$1 trillion in corporate and government supply chain procurement annually. Founded in 1915 as the first supply management institute in the world, ISM is committed to advancing the practice of supply management to drive value and competitive advantage for its members, contributing to a prosperous and sustainable world. ISM leads the profession through the ISM Report On Business, its highly regarded certification programs and the ISM Mastery Model. This report has been issued by the association since 1931, except for a four-year interruption during World War II.

The full text version of the Manufacturing ISM Report On Business is posted on ISM's website at www.ismrob.org on the first business day* of every month after 10:00 a.m. ET.

The next Manufacturing ISM Report On Business featuring December 2018 data will be released at 10:00 a.m. ET on Thursday, January 3, 2019.

*Unless the New York Stock Exchange is closed.

Contact: Kristina Cahill

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ISM, ROB/Research Manager

Tempe, Arizona

+1 480.455.5910

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S2H Communication, is an international marketing and PR firm, specialized in home decor, interior design and lifestyle founded in 2009 by Sarah Hamon in Paris with an office in Miami since 2015. S2H Communication will manage the marketing and PR campaign for this exception launch that will take place on December 6 and 7, during Miami Design Week, when Art Basel and DesignMiami/ gather all home decor, arts and design addicts and collectors in South Florida. Maisons du Monde will provide them with affordable and trendy solutions for their homes.

A series of events will be organized including a grand opening party, featuring Anne-Laure Couplet, the Brand Executive Director, hosted by influencers Dabito from Oldbrandnew.com and New-York Times bestselling author Justina Blackeney, icon of boho style and founder of the Jungalow, and a scavenger hunt thought Miami.

S2H Communication boasts a roster of prestigious international clients including Maison Sarah Lavoine, Les editions Serge Mouille, Made in Design, C&C Milano, citizenM hotels and LAGO. When the agency opened its office in Miami in 2015, S2H Communication gained new domestic clients such as WantedDesign, the Philadelphia Design District, Laufen, CTO Lighting, Oluce, and BAMO to name a few, all featured in major publications such as Surface, the NY Times, Hospitality Design, Aspire Design & Home, Metropolis, Modern etc

In November 2018, S2H Communication keeps expanding with the opening of a third office in NYC. This comes as a major step in S2H's development.

''I am extremely proud to sign a client such as Maisons du Monde. They're a giant in their industry in Europe and we have great ambitions for them now that they're expanding to the US market. This typical French lifestyle, this taste for all things home decor is what we've been representing for almost a decade now. I think Maison du Monde came to us for this specific expertise, because we can understand their culture, where they're from and at the same time, we perfectly know the US market, since we've been working on the ground with our clients for a while now, in NYC, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Los Angeles.

I think that S2H occupies a unique position in the PR agencies landscape with a French CEO and two teams comprising of American experts in the US and French Experts in France. And still we're a boutique agency  says Sarah Hamon founder of the agency, based in Miami since 2015.

The opening of a third office in NYC confirms the success of S2H Communication that now counts 20 employees.

Since September 2018 S2H Communication signed Pouenat, Apotheca, My Home Design et Saulaie in France and Cory Grosser + Associates, Maisons du Monde and Society Limonta in the USA.

About Maisons du Monde

Maisons du Monde is a creator of inspirational lifestyle universes in the homeware industry, offering distinctive and affordable decoration and furniture collections that showcase multiple styles. The Group develops its business through an integrated and complementary omnichannel approach, leveraging its international network of stores, websites and catalogues. The Group was founded in France in 1996 and has profitably expanded across Europe since 2003. The Group posted sales of 1,011 million and EBITDA of 139 million for the year ended 31 December 2017. In 2017, the Group operated 313 stores in seven countries including France, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, and Luxembourg, and derived over 38% of its sales from outside France. The Group has also built a successful complementary and comprehensive online shopping website, sales from which grew 35% per year on average between 2010 and 2017. The website is available in eleven countries: the seven countries where the Group operates stores plus Austria, the Netherlands, Portugal and the United Kingdom. In 2017, online sales represented 21% of the Group's sales.

About S2H Communication

S2H Communication is an International Communications and PR firm with offices in Paris and Miami.

Founded in 2009 by Sarah Hamon, a PR and communications professional and self-professed fanatic of visual arts and design.

S2H Communication was established to serve the diverse PR and Communications needs of the art and design community around the world.

Our passion for design, our exceptional service and ability to tailor unique international campaigns that appear in prestigious global publications have gained us the attention and praise of clients and industry alike.

As a boutique agency, we take pride in our ability to connect with our clients on a personal level. We feel a sense of responsibility for your brand and your vision, so we are always responsive and attentive to your needs.

Our clients include WantedDesign, Lago, Arte international, Maison Sarah Lavoine, The Philadelphia Design District, BAMO, Laufen, Atelier de Yavorsky to name a few.

SOURCE S2H CommunicationResearchers already know that the stress hormone cortisol can trigger a seizure in epileptics, as well as anxiety and depression, he said. But until theres a larger study, researchers cant be sure that theres a clear link between crime rate and seizures, or that its due to stress. The results do show that a larger study is warranted, he said, and its an important topic of study because physicians could take into account where someone lives when developing a treatment plan.CHANGSHA, China, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNwswire/ -- Sany Construction Industry ("the Company"), Sany Group's residential construction subsidiary and a world leader in the manufacture of engineering machinery and equipment, concluded its presentation at the 2018 China (Changsha) Prefabricated Building and Construction Technology Expo (PBCTE or "the Expo"), where the company demonstrated its concept of providing green and smart industrialized buildings worldwide.

The construction sector has been part of existence since the dawn of civilization. Despite several millennia of development, there has never been a fundamental change in its operational mode. Onsite construction, which requires a large number of laborers, is still the main blueprint for the sector. With this in mind, the intelligent construction sector may be the manufacturing industry's biggest opportunity.

The construction industry helps to create comfortable homes for people to live in. Sany Group, a world leader in the manufacture of engineering machinery and equipment, has created many "firsts" in the construction industry. From the Three Gorges Dam to the Bird's Nest National Stadium in China and from the Americas to Africa, Sany Group engages in business everywhere. When it comes to talking about which companies have the wherewithal to undertake the task of transforming traditional construction practices, Sany Group can be counted among them.

Before Sany drew the attention of visitors at PBCTE, it had showcased its SPCS technology at the 2018 Shanghai International City and Architecture Expo, demonstrating the company's efforts to lead the construction industry in the move towards intelligent manufacturing.

From SPCS technology, which can match cast-in-place concrete structures in terms of performance, to digital projects that can be undertaken by a diverse workforce of robots, Sany is making efforts to empower the construction sector with a combination of a cast-in-place equivalents, digital factories and intelligent construction in tandem with an industry cloud platform, leading the way in the build-out of a prefabricated building and construction sector that is fully equipped to face the future.

Prefabricated buildings have been a hot trend

Although many manufacturing sectors have, through digitalization, made the transition from industrial 3.0 to industrial 4.0, the construction industry has not yet realized that revolution.

Prefabricated buildings are buildings that can be manufactured in large quantities, just as is done with production lines in dozens of other industries and is the precursor to the revolution. Buildings can be completed by transporting the prefabricated building blocks to the site and then assembling them. This form of construction emerged at the beginning of the 20th century and took off in the 1960s. The UK, France and Russia were the first to jump into something resembling a large scale system, followed by the practice gradually spreading worldwide.

The importance of the role that prefabricated buildings can play has been increasingly recognized in China. The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development released the Outline of Modern Development of Building and Construction Industry ("the Outline") in 2015. According to the Outline, the Chinese government plans to increase the proportion of prefabricated buildings among all newly-built structures to over 20% by 2020 and to over 50% by 2025. Another document, the Guidance for Boosting the Development of Prefabricated Buildings, issued by the State Council on February 22, 2016, indicated that China aims to increase the share of prefabricated buildings that will make up all new construction to 30% within 10 years. In addition, the Action Plan for Prefabricated Buildings ("the Plan") in the 13th Five-Year Plan Period points out that the overall share of prefabricated buildings in the mix is expected to exceed 15% within the country by 2020, with the proportion to surpass 20% in selected key regions monitored by the Plan.

Sany Group President Tang Xiuguo said, "With the support of favorable government policies, prefabricated buildings will become the mainstay of the next-generation building and construction industry. Unlike traditional cast-in-place reinforced concrete and masonry buildings, a prefabricated building consists of building blocks, including beams, panels, foundations and exterior walls, which are manufactured at plants and then transported to the site for installation after a maintenance and inspection process. A disruptive construction method, prefabricated buildings leverage standard building blocks and industrialized construction methods to re-create the traditional brick- and tile-based techniques handed down over thousands of years since the time of the Qin and Han dynasties."

Addressing the pain points hobbling the industry through the power of technology

China's Prefabricated Building Sector Strategic Planning and Corporate Strategy Consultation Report released by the Shenzhen-based Qianzhan Industry Research Institute, a leading Chinese industry consultancy, foresees the Chinese prefabricated building market reaching a value of 698.2 billion yuan (US$101 billion) by 2020 and 1.4389 trillion yuan (US$207 billion) by 2025.

Despite the optimism in terms of the prospects for the market, the prefabricated building industry has been beset by several pain points for a long time. As one example, almost all concrete building standards are set based on cast-in-place concrete technology, while all the design software, which is approved by drawing inspectors and authorities, has been developed based on the same cast-in-place technology. As a result, the sector has some major challenges that need to be addressed, including ensuring a consistency of performance between prefabricated reinforced concrete structures and its cast-in-place counterparts, equal or enhanced bearing capacity, durability and ductility of the connectors or joints between prefabricated blocks or between prefabricated and cast-in-place blocks. Both in-country and global markets now lack a set of uniform standards and protocols based on proven practices.

Cast-in-place equivalent technology effectively connects precast building blocks, primarily exterior walls, with cast-in-place blocks, supported by reliably connected rebars with the aim of creating a fabricated structure, which meets building structure safety standards and matches the cast-in-place structure. Several organizations, including Sany Group, have devoted themselves to addressing the challenges surrounding the technology.

On October 10, 2018, the specifications for Sany Construction Industry's SPCS technology were released at the Tenth National Prefabricated Building Exchange Conference organized by China's Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, following review and unanimous approval by a group of expert judges. This marked the official roll-out of the assembled monolithic concrete structure system, setting in motion the next stage of industrialization of the Chinese construction sector.

"Based on the goal of achieving intelligent manufacturing-enabled industrialization, Sany Construction Industry developed an assembled monolithic composite structure system that meets the requirements of most buildings and proposed an approach to designing an SPCS structure system that can truly be comparable with cast-in-place concrete structures in terms of performance," Mr. Tang said. The Company's technicians developed proprietary production processes for composite concrete structure walls, columns, beams and slabs leading to the manufacturing of various types of equipment for superimposed shear wall production, laminated column integral forming, welding steel cage forming, steel sleeve extrusion and the automated production of prefabricated blocks. The firm also researched and developed a series of construction methods, including a technology for the quick installation of composite concrete structures as well as an installation and construction technology for a welded, reinforced cage capable of supporting and housing composite concrete structures, creating a model for superimposed construction of the structure. To date, applications for 93 patents relating to the technology system have been accepted by regulators. After undergoing and passing several force tests by various compliance authorities, the system has been recognized as the next-generation prefabricated structure system that can truly be comparable with cast-in-place concrete structures.

Creating a new ecosystem of prefabricated buildings

Sany seeks to drive the transformation of the traditional construction sector and provide green and smart industrialized buildings worldwide by taking full advantage of the company's core advantages in the equipment manufacturing sector and by integrating digital, information and internet technologies. Driven by this vision, Sany Group has positioned itself to lead the transformation that is taking place across the traditional construction market.

Sany has put its stake into the ground. "Sany's core competitiveness lies in three key technologies and one platform through which the company empowers the construction sector and builds a complete solution for the prefabricated building market," said Sany Group Chief Architect Chen Guang. The three key technologies are SPCS technology, digital factories and smart construction, while the platform is Sany's big data-based visualized construction industry cloud platform.

The ability to design and implement the technologies is based on Sany's extensive experience and deep expertise in monolithic composite structures, space flexibility and technology in advanced materials, while SPCS technology enables seamless combination of cast-in-place concrete and high-precision prefabricated components. Digital factories are made up of a diverse array of construction robots as well as sophisticated and smart prefabricated construction (PC) equipment. Sany Group developed a lineup of dedicated robots capable of replacing workers that engaged in what can best be termed as "back-breaking work," significantly reducing human costs and the risk of construction site accidents. Sany also manufactures a comprehensive range of production, transportation and installation equipment covering the entire industrialized construction process, including an automated PC production line, a dedicated PC mixing station, and a range of PC logistics and lifting equipment.

Smart construction refers to Sany's perfected and smart field construction procedures and strong industrial team consisting of technicians with automation and computer knowledge. The workforce on each team is small in number, with each member well-versed in their area of specialization, making these teams the indispensable force for the development of green and smart buildings.

The construction industry cloud platform is the result of Sany's efforts in promoting the in-depth integration of the enterprise with the information needed and the digitalization of that information for a fully-industrialized approach to the development and roll out of projects. Based on the Internet of Things and big data, the platform provides users with a digital management and monitoring interface from design to assembly and on through the whole production and construction process that integrates information and smart technologies throughout, enabling project owners and construction teams to have full control of the end-to-end process via the cloud.

Sany's dream is to play a key role at the leading edge of the impending revolution of the prefabricated building sector, just as Siemens and General Motors did in their time, exporting standardized solutions to other manufacturers and enabling all players across the building and construction spectrum. Sany believes that investment in PC along with a few demonstrable successes is the best model for creating what is foreseen to be a profitable new industry.

Based on existing land reserves, Sany looks forward to working with more partners to build a series of demonstration and benchmarking projects in the prefabricated building space throughout the country, further promoting Sany's hard technology strengths. The company also hopes to build several localized training platforms in various regions in a move to encourage more individuals in the construction sector to look at the development of prefabricated building as an exciting career path with good prospects. To sum up, Sany's mission is to share its advanced concepts in a move to transform the construction sector with prefabricated technologies, and to encourage the construction of sustainable and green buildings.

The trends of the times have opened up many opportunities in the prefabricated building space, but also for innovative enterprises such as Sany. Sany is confident in its ability to fill the role of transforming the sector with intelligent manufacturing and open a new era of construction through a reasonable and well-thought-out application of its technology, knowledge and expertise.

SOURCE Sany Construction IndustryIn 2019, the airport will construct a third runway, increasing the capacity of the airport from 55 to 90 takeoff and landing operations an hour. Phase 1 of Terminal C construction will also finish in 2019, offering an annual capacity of 20 million passengers and multilevel parking for 2,500 vehicles.

In 2020, the airport will add a hangar complex with an aircraft maintenance area to the third runway. The complex will feature at least seven hangars for our partner airlines, and process pads for specialized ground handling and airfield service vehicles.

In 2021, Phase 2 of construction will begin on Terminal C, increasing its capacity by 10 million passengers per year, along with an additional 1,500 parking spots in the multi-level complex. The airport will also develop a railway and rail station in the Northern Terminal Complex, which will provide passengers with a direct connection from Central Moscow to Terminals B and C of SIA. JSC Russian Railways will lead the rail project for Sheremetyevo.

In 2022, SIA will develop an apron for the third runway that will host more than 40 parking lots for aircraft. Developers will also construct a Sheremetyevo "Moscow Cargo" terminal with a capacity to handle 380 thousand tons of cargo annually.

The JSC SIA Board of Directors approved all financial statements for the first 9 months of 2018, prepared in accordance with Russian Accounting Standards (RAS). Revenue in the first 9 months of 2018 increased by 9.6%, gross profit increased by 16.2%, and value of sales reduced by 3.2% as compared with 2017.

Key highlights in accordance with RAS

Million rubles 9M 2018 9M 2017 Change Revenue 23 326 21 275 9,6% Value of sales 6 967 7 200 -3,2% Gross profit 16 359 14 075 16,2%

To conclude the meeting, Chairman of the Board Alexander Ponomarenko emphasized, "We determined the most important strategic milestones in the infrastructure modernization and construction projects to be implemented in the Master Development Plan of Sheremetyevo International Airport until 2024. This will ensure the long-term steady development of airlines and business partners for the benefit of our passengers and clients. Implementation of the Master Development Plan will strengthen Sheremetyevo's position as the largest Russian airport, and as a competitive passenger and cargo hub in Europe and in the world. The new infrastructure of Sheremetyevo Airport will contribute to the effective realization of Russia's air transport potential."

The JSC SIA Board of Directors include: Alexander Ponomarenko, Chairman of the Board of Directors of JSC SIA (Sheremetyevo International Airport), Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sheremetyevo Holding LLC; Mikhail Vasilenko, CEO of Sheremetyevo International Airport JSC; Evgeny Ditrikh, Minister of Transport of the Russian Federation; Roman Zinovyev, President of Sheremetyevo Holding LLC; Ilya Petrov, Vice-president of MD Group LLC; Aleksandr Pleshakov, President of the Non-profit partnership of Financial Managers Guild, non-executive director; Alexey Smagin, First Vice-President  Investment Director of Sheremetyevo Holding LLC; Aleksandr Skorobogatko, Member of the Board of Directors of JSC SIA (Sheremetyevo International Airport); Dmitriy Pristanskov, Deputy Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation  Head of the Federal Agency for State Property Management.

SOURCE Sheremetyevo International AirportThe blinding eye disease trachoma is depicted in the hieroglyphs on ancient Nubian tombs yet it is now on the verge of being eliminated as a public health problem across the world.

(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/792694/Nelson_Mandela_Concert.jpg )



Massive progress has been made by governments, donors and international organisations but more support is needed - so a new fund has been set up to help take elimination over the finish line. This latest step was announced by Richard Branson, via recorded video, at the star-studded Global Citizen concert in Johannesburg on Sunday (2 December), and on stage by Precious Mukelabai, a Zambian volunteer who distributes medication to protect people against trachoma.

They represented funders from The Accelerate Trachoma Elimination Programme - led by the charity Sightsavers and including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), The ELMA Foundation UK, and Virgin Unite. It builds on an announcement made by the UK government in April 2018 to boost elimination efforts through the Commonwealth 2018-2020 Fund.

Dr Caroline Harper, Chief Executive of Sightsavers, said: "It is now within our grasp to be part of history and stop trachoma in its tracks.

"This persistent disease blights the world's poorest communities and traps people into lives of intense pain. It can turn eyelashes inwards so that with every blink they scrape against the ball of the eye, slowly turning people blind. Yet it is treatable and preventable.

"Some of the most trusted names in modern philanthropy are now coming together to accelerate elimination efforts."

The funding will support at least ten African countries eliminate trachoma as a public health risk and speed up progress in several others, where the burden of the disease is highest, by 2023.

Givemore Mafukidze, a health worker from Zimbabwe, said eliminating trachoma would make a real difference to the people he treats: "It makes me very happy to see a child with trachoma being treated because I know the impact it will have on the child's life, wellbeing and welfare. I will be certain that this child is likely to have a better future."

The Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100 featured performances from Beyonce, Jay Z, and Ed Sheeran and celebrated the legacy of Nelson Mandela. A key theme of the concert was improving health for all.

Contact: Katya Mira, +1-444-446739, [email protected]

SOURCE SightsaversBOSTON, Mass., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- At a time when the latest IPCC report calls for urgent action to fight climate change, Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, is accelerating its contribution to meeting the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. To mark the occasion of COP24 in Katowice (Poland), from December 3 to 14, 2018, Schneider Electric is strengthening its commitments to become carbon neutral by 2030 using solutions that will help accelerate the transition towards a low carbon economy.

Carbon neutral by 2030

"The climate emergency is growing, and new players are emerging to tackle the issue. The Paris Agreement signed three years ago provides us with a much clearer understanding of what is at stake. We're now at a tipping point in limiting global warming to less than 2C above pre-industrial levels to avoid a major ecological disaster", says Gilles Vermot Desroches, Sustainability Senior VP at Schneider Electric.

In November 2015, on the eve of COP21, Schneider Electric announced its plan to become carbon neutral by 2030. To mark the occasion of COP24, Schneider Electric is stepping up its ambition and strengthening its commitments to fighting climate change, based on three complementary initiatives:

1. Before 2020: meet the 21 new commitments of the 2018-2020 Schneider Sustainability Impact barometer, outline a specific trajectory based on the assumption that Earth will breach the 2C warming limit by 2050 and validate it through the Science Based Targets initiative, signed by the Group in 2016.

2. Achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 at its plants and sites, in a cohesive industry ecosystem encompassing both suppliers and clients. To that aim, the Group will

quantify carbon emissions saved by its customers thanks to its EcoStruxure offers

switch to 100% renewable electricity, use 100% recyclable or reusable packaging, and recover 100% of its industrial waste

and double its energy productivity against a 2005 baseline.

3. Starting today and by 2050: cut its scope 1 and scope 2 carbon emissions by more than 50% vs. 2015, in line with the guiding principles of the Science Based Targets initiative.

Building a sustainable future together, thanks to energy efficiency

"The decisions we make today are critical to ensuring a safe and sustainable world for everyone, both now and in the future. At Schneider Electric, we believe that sustainability and innovation is technologically possible today. COP24, in Poland this year, is an opportunity for us to demonstrate our contribution through solutions that are a genuine remedy for climate change and to show how we can help meet the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals", said Gilles Vermot Desroches.

What is good for the climate is good for the economy. Schneider Electric's solutions help accelerate the transition towards a low carbon economy offering numerous opportunities, from sustainable growth to job creation, improved public health and more. A number of Schneider Electric projects in Poland demonstrate this:

Schneider Electric completed an electrical distribution modernization of the Saint Gobain glass factory in Dabrowa Gornicza in 2017. The replacement and optimization of transformers, thanks to EcoSruxure Power Consulting Services, led to a 16% drop in energy losses (OPEX) in 2018 as well as a 30% drop in capital expenditure.

Schneider Electric has also equipped the International Conference Center of Katowice , where COP24 will take place, and the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra Hall, location of the opening concert, with building energy management systems that significantly reduce their energy consumption while maintaining occupant comfort.

Addressing energy poverty and the climate emergency

Access to energy is a fundamental human right. The fight against climate change will not be effective without taking into account the needs of the 2.3 billion people with poor access to energy. That's why Schneider Electric is actively promoting sustainable energy access everywhere. In developed countries, it means fighting fuel poverty, the state when a person can't heat his or her home at an acceptable cost. At COP 24, the Schneider Electric Foundation, under the aegis of Foundation de France, together with social entrepreneurship organization Ashoka, will pursue this commitment to tackling fuel poverty in Europe by launching a new call for projects for 2019.

Climate change is another key issue, as many people have already been forced to leave their homes due to extreme natural disasters. Those situations call for mobile, clean, reliable and affordable energy access solutions. At COP24, Schneider Electric will launch its Villaya Emergency solution for easier access to energy in emergency situations. This solar microgrid solution is ready to use in any situation thanks to a system combining Schneider Electric technologies and the expertise of innovative start-ups. The entire solution is fitted into a standard shipping container for fast, easy transportation or relocation to anywhere worldwide.

Schneider Electric at COP24

COP24 will bring together around 20,000 participants (political leaders and representatives from NGOs, business and science and research) from more than 190 countries, all working to accelerate the implementation of solutions by 2020. Schneider Electric's experts and executives will participate in a series of events and round tables.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is leading the Digital Transformation of Energy Management and Automation in Homes, Buildings, Data Centers, Infrastructure and Industries.With global presence in over 100 countries, Schneider is the undisputable leader in Power Management  Medium Voltage, Low Voltage and Secure Power, and in Automation Systems. We provide integrated efficiency solutions, combining energy, automation and software. In our global Ecosystem, we collaborate with the largest Partner, Integrator and Developer Community on our Open Platform to deliver real-time control and operational efficiency. We believe that great people and partners make Schneider a great company and that our commitment to Innovation, Diversity and Sustainability ensures that Life Is On everywhere, for everyone and at every moment.

www.schneider-electric.com

Discover Life is On

Discover EcoStruxure

Follow us on:



Twitter

Facebook

LinkedIn

Google Plus

YouTube

Instagram

Schneider Electric Blog

Hashtags: #LifeIsOn #Sustainability #SDG #EnergyAccess #COP24 #Villaya

SOURCE Schneider Electric

Related Links

http://www.schneider-electric.com

(Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/792074/Airinum_Logo.jpg )

(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/792073/Airinum_Alan_Walker.jpg )

"I've always wanted to use my position and strong 'Walkers community' to make a difference, and when I met the team at Airinum I started to realize how big of an issue polluted air really is today. I felt that the time was about right to stand up for something important as the topic of climate change and the alarming consequences that it brings with it," says Walker, who has built his whole image around wearing a mask and continues:

"To me, it's always been a part of my identity to wear a mask and together with Airinum I can now use that to make a bigger impact. Together we bring out a great product and at the same time spread knowledge about problems associated with poor air quality using the strength of my walker community."

With air masks becoming the new black, hitting catwalks from Paris to Shanghai, Airinum has become famous for its innovative product design and rapid adoption amongst influencers. Winner of prestigious awards such as the American IDA Gold Design Award and Chinese Hurun Best of the Best Brand Award, the company has in a few years established themselves as the number one fashion-tech mask brand in the world.

"Even though we're frustrated about the need for our product in the first place, we're excited about the Alan Walker collaboration launched today, as we believe we have a perfect product for people to use to collectively help raise awareness about this important topic," says Fredrik Kempe, CMO & Co-founder of Airinum and continues:

"That the simple act of breathing is killing seven million people a year and harming billions more is what made us start this company in the first place. We find this unacceptable. Together with the whole Alan Walker team we now present a campaign dedicated to raise awareness about air pollution and climate change as a whole, while at the same time provide means for immediate protection. This is something we're all very proud of."

For high-resolution images, full campaign video and complete press kit:

bit.ly/Airinum

Airinum is a Swedish company that empowers individuals to breathe clean air by offering innovative products that intersect functionality and design, catered to urban citizens all over the world. It's famous for its Scandinavian product design and high-end brand with prestigious designer awards such as IDA Gold and Hurun Best of the Best Brand awards. The company was founded in June 2015 and the management team consist of the two co-founders: Fredrik Kempe & Alexander Hjertstrom.

Alan Walker is a Norwegian DJ who made his big breakthrough with the song Faded in 2015, today with over 2 billion views only on YouTube. He is certainly one of our most talented musicians of his age and even though he feels at home in every corner of the world, due to his millions of fans called walkers, he is mostly famous for being a pragmatic, present and caring celebrity.

Contact

Airinum

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +46-708-40-99-93

Alan Walker

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +47-942-77-848

SOURCE Airinum ABROLLING MEADOWS, Ill., Dec. 2, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. today announced that it has acquired a 40% equity stake in Indonesian insurance broker and risk management services provider PT IBS Insurance Broking Service, as well as 100% of reinsurance broker, IBS Re Singapore. Other terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Established in 1975 as the first licensed insurance broker in Indonesia, Jakarta-based PT IBS Insurance Broking Service is now one of the country's most respected independent brokers, with revenues of over $10 million. It offers integrated risk services and insurance solutions for major corporations, middle-market companies, small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and individual customers across Indonesia, with a focus on specific industry sectors such as real estate; banking and finance; forestry and agriculture; marine; manufacturing; energy; construction; plants and equipment; and motor.

"IBS Group has been a key participant in Gallagher's strategic broker partner network, Gallagher Global Alliance, for more than 15 years," said J. Patrick Gallagher, Jr., Chairman, President and CEO of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. "This is a terrific opportunity to strengthen our relationship and work even more closely in pursuit of future business opportunities."

"Many of IBS Group's strengths are complementary to those of our London and Singapore-based Specialty and reinsurance teams, which will generate a truly symbiotic relationship. We are delighted to welcome Swandi Kendy, Setia Hadidjaja and the talented IBS team to Gallagher," added Vyvienne Wade, CEO of Gallagher's overseas division.

"We are very proud to have grown IBS into the diverse, integrated risk services provider it is today, and know that Gallagher is the right partner to help us realize the future growth potential of the business," said Swandi Kendy, IBS Group CEO/President Director. "This new strategic alliance will create significant opportunities for both of us, and give our clients even greater access to sector specialists, markets and facilities."

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG), a global insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm, is headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. The company has operations in 35 countries and offers client service capabilities in more than 150 countries around the world through a network of correspondent brokers and consultants.

Investors: Ray Iardella Media: Linda J. Collins VP  Investor Relations VP  Corporate Communications 630-285-3661/ [email protected] 630-285-4009/ [email protected]

SOURCE Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

Related Links

http://www.ajg.com

- OPERA's "LIP TINT" Wins Grand Prize -

TOKYO, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- istyle Inc. (TSE First Section, Company Code: 3660), the Tokyo-based operator of @cosme, one of Asia's largest beauty information and review sites, announced "@cosme THE BEST COSMETICS AWARDS 2018" on Dec. 3, 2018.

About @cosme:

@cosme is one of Asia's largest beauty information websites, with a loyal user base of Japanese women. The information and reviews posted on @cosme make it useful for women's daily beauty, earning it widespread support.

(Image1: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/201811290901-O1-0aUfq4se)

About @cosme THE BEST COSMETICS AWARDS:

The awards cover cosmetics and beauty products that have gained the most support from consumers, based on reviews written in 2018 by members of @cosme who have actually used the products. The winners of the awards were selected according to product rankings. The lineup of award-winning products, which reflects the opinions of ordinary consumers, has drawn attention from a wide range of parties concerned ranging from users to officials in the cosmetics and beauty care industries.

The 2018 Grand Prize went to "LIP TINT" from OPERA for the second year in a row and received the most favorable response from users on @cosme. In addition to its affordable price, LIP TINT's three key features of "moisture, long-lasting color and comfortable wear" won high marks as a lip tint. Moreover, limited shades were released one after another, successively stealing the show and gained the attention of consumers through 2018. As evidence of its popularity, the product also won 1st place as "@cosme store Best Hits" which is decided solely on sales at @cosme stores throughout Japan.

(Image2: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/201811290901-O2-0Gng6jx7)

For details, please visit:

Japanese

http://www.cosme.net/bestcosme/2018/

English

http://us.cosme.net/bestcosmeRankings

Traditional Chinese

http://tw.cosme.net/bestcosmeRankings

Simplified Chinese

http://cn.cosme.net/bestcosmeRankings

Korean

http://kr.cosme.net/bestcosmeRankings

istyle Inc. simultaneously announced, "UrCosme (@cosme TAIWAN) THE BEST COSMETICS AWARDS," that reflect Taiwan's beauty trends of 2018 the same day on its group site "UrCosme (@cosme TAIWAN)," which is a beauty information and review site in Taiwan. These awards are based on the rankings of products that have gained the most support from consumers. This year, the UrCosme (@cosme TAIWAN) Grand Prize went to YVES SAINT LAURENT 's " VINYL CREAM LIP STAIN."

For details, please visit:

(Traditional Chinese only)

https://www.urcosme.com/beauty-awards/2018/annual_index

Contact:

Tomoko Noda

Public Relations Group

istyle Inc.

Tel: +81-3-5575-1286

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE istyle, Inc."With the recent innovations in video and audio technologies now available for the home, this is the golden age of home cinema," said Cheena Srinivasan, Kaleidescape founder and CEO. "Kaleidescape is delighted to offer these BBC titles to our customers. This is content that matters to our customers  that the whole family can enjoy!"

"The BBC is known for our stunning, high quality, innovative programming," states Beth Clearfield, SVP, Digital Strategy and Franchise Business Management, BBC Studios  Americas. "We are pleased to be the first to bring magnificent 4K television series, like Planet Earth II  one of our very first series to air in full UHD  to Kaleidescape, and to reach new audiences with great British dramas like the awarding-winning series Luther."

A selection of BBC Studios  Americas' award-winning series and documentaries is now available from Kaleidescape in the United States and Canada, with more titles to be added in the coming weeks and months.

About Kaleidescape, Inc.

Kaleidescape delivers an unparalleled home cinema experience. The company designs and manufactures industry-leading movie players and servers, and provides the finest films from all the major studios. Kaleidescape is the only online source of full-fidelity movies, featuring audio and video quality that takes advantage of the capabilities of modern home theaters. Kaleidescape's renowned onscreen user interface, and our new mobile app, were crafted by and for movie lovers. Kaleidescape systems are installed worldwide in the best homes, yachts, and aircraft. Founded in 2001, and headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, Kaleidescape sells its products through custom integrators.

BBC Studios  Americas

BBC Studios, a global content company with British creativity at its heart, is a commercial subsidiary of the BBC. Formed in April 2018 by the merger of BBC Worldwide and BBC Studios, it spans content financing, development, production, sales, branded services, and ancillaries. BBC Studios' award-winning British programs are internationally recognized across a broad range of genres and specialties. It has offices in 22 markets globally, including six production bases in the UK, and a further seven wholly-owned and production partnerships internationally. The company, which makes over 2,500 hours of content a year, is a champion for British creativity around the world and a committed partner for the UK's independent sector.

In the Americas, BBC Studios' production unit in Los Angeles is responsible for ratings juggernaut Dancing with the Stars, critically-acclaimed The Night Of, and award-winning Life Below Zero, while local productions Dancing Brasil and Bake Off Brasil are breakout hits made in Brazil. The company manages joint venture relationships with AMC Networks for flagship channel BBC AMERICA (U.S.) - home of global brands Planet Earth II, Blue Planet II, Doctor Who, and Top Gear - and with ITV for SVoD service BritBox (U.S./Canada), as well as strategic partnerships in Canada with Blue Ant Media for BBC Earth Channel, Corus for BBC Canada, and Knowledge Network for BBC Kids.

Copyright  2018 Kaleidescape, Inc. Kaleidescape and the Kaleidescape logo are trademarks of Kaleidescape, Inc., and are registered in the United States. Other trademarks are owned by third parties and may be registered in some jurisdictions.

SOURCE Kaleidescape, Inc.BREA, Calif., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Beckman Coulter, a global leader in the clinical diagnostics industry, today announced it is joining forces with Sepsis Alliance, the nation's leading sepsis organization, to support the Sepsis Coordinator Network. Sepsis is the body's life-threatening reaction to infection and the leading cause of death in hospitals in the United States, taking a life every two minutes. As the first of its kind, online, peer-to-peer association for healthcare professionals, the Sepsis Coordinator Network is committed to helping save lives by improving patient outcomes.

"Delayed treatment of sepsis can cause cardiovascular collapse, tissue damage, organ failure and, ultimately, death," said Peter Soltani, Ph.D., senior vice president and general manager of Beckman Coulter's hematology business. "The availability of timely, accurate detection solutions is critical to stopping the progression of this deadly condition. Having recently launched our Early Sepsis Indicator, we are happy to join the Sepsis Coordinator Network in the fight against this life-threatening disease."

"Beckman Coulter is dedicated to helping improve sepsis patient outcomes by developing a portfolio of tools to help move the industry forward in terms of early detection and treatment options," said John Blackwood, senior vice president, Beckman Coulter. "We are proud to partner with Sepsis Alliance and to sponsor the Sepsis Coordinator Network because they share in this important mission by helping provide healthcare professionals with access to the tools and resources they need to identify the disease and shorten time to treatment."

The Sepsis Coordinator Network provides its members with evidence-based, best-practice resources and guidance to identify and treat sepsis. Since its launch on May 22, 2018, the network has grown to include more than 1,300 healthcare professionals from over 1,000 hospitals in all 50 states, covering more than 390,000 hospital beds.

"The Sepsis Coordinator Network's rapid membership growth is truly impressive and it wouldn't be possible without the support of companies like Beckman Coulter," said Thomas Heymann, president and executive director of Sepsis Alliance. "Every new member of the Sepsis Coordinator Network represents an additional health provider who is committed to improving sepsis care in their facility and for their patients."

The Sepsis Coordinator Network is led by experts in the field of nursing with critical experience in caring for sepsis patients. A complementary team of healthcare professionals from across the continuum of care serve as clinical advisors in specialized areas. They include physicians, pharmacists and mental health specialists, among others.

For more information about Beckman Coulter's sepsis detection tools or the Sepsis Coordinator Network, please visit www.beckmancoulter.com or www.SepsisCoordinatorNetwork.org.

About Sepsis Alliance

Sepsis Alliance is the leading sepsis organization in the U.S., working in all 50 states to save lives and reduce suffering by raising awareness of sepsis as a medical emergency. In 2011, Sepsis Alliance designated September as Sepsis Awareness Month to bring healthcare professional and community members together in the fight against sepsis. The organization was founded in 2007 by Carl Flatley, D.D.S., M.S.D., whose daughter Erin unnecessarily died of sepsis when she was 23 years old. Sepsis Alliance gives a voice to the millions of people who have been touched by sepsis  to the survivors, and the friends and family members of those who have survived or who have died. Sepsis Alliance is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and a GuideStar Gold Rated Charity. For more information, please visit www.sepsis.org. Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter at @SepsisAlliance.

About Beckman Coulter

Beckman Coulter Diagnostics helps healthcare and laboratory professionals provide better patient care by delivering the accurate diagnostic information they need, when they need it. With a rich 80-year history, Beckman Coulter is a partner of choice for healthcare organizations. Our scalable instruments, comprehensive diagnostic tests and business management services are trusted by hospitals, laboratories and other critical care settings around the world. We share in our customers' mission toward continuous improvement and quality patient care because we believe when efficiency and clinical outcomes are improved, patients benefit and we can move healthcare forward for every person.

 2018 Beckman Coulter. All rights reserved. Beckman Coulter, the stylized logo, and the Beckman Coulter product and service marks mentioned herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Beckman Coulter, Inc. in the United States and other countries.

SOURCE Beckman Coulter

Related Links

https://www.beckmancoulter.com

2 Hour Endpoint Rimegepant

(N=669) Placebo

(N=682) Difference p-value Pain Freedom 21.2% 10.9% 10.3% < 0.0001 Freedom from MBS1 35.1% 26.8% 8.3% 0.0009 1. Most Bothersome Symptom of Photophobia, Phonophobia or Nausea

The safety and tolerability observations of rimegepant in Study 303 were consistent with the profile previously observed in Studies 301 and 302. Table 2 shows the pooled safety data across all three trials. In study 303, no single adverse event (AE) occurred in the rimegepant group with an incidence higher than 1.6% and overall rates of AEs were similar to placebo. With regard to liver function tests, one patient treated with placebo and one patient treated with rimegepant showed LFTs > 3x ULN in Study 303. Pooled liver function test results across the three pivotal trials (n=3,556) performed to date showed that rimegepant was similar to placebo with regard to aminotransferase (ALT or AST) levels above the upper limit of normal (ULN) and no patients experienced elevations in bilirubin > 2x ULN (Table 3).

Table 2: Pooled Adverse Event (AE) Safety Data: Rimegepant was Similar to Placebo Across Studies

AEs from Studies 301, 302 and 303 with an incidence  1% Adverse Event Rimegepant

N=1,771 Placebo

N=1,785  1 On-Study AE1 252 (14.2%) 209 (13.2%) Nausea 26 (1.5%) 15 (0.8%) UTI 21 (1.2%) 12 (0.7%) SAEs2 3 (0.2%) 3 (0.2%) 1. No other individual AEs  1% in rimegepant treated subjects than those listed in table. Includes all AEs without attribution to drug relatedness. 2. No drug-related Serious Adverse Events (SAEs). Two of the subjects with SAE in rimegepant group and one in placebo group had not been dosed before onset of SAE.

Table 3: Pooled Liver Function Test (LFT) Profile: Rimegepant was Similar to Placebo Across Studies

Pooled LFT Results from Studies 301, 302, and 303* ALT or AST Rimegepant

N=1,771 Placebo

N=1,785 > ULN1 48 (2.7%) 52 (2.9%) > 3x ULN 2 (0.1%) 2 (0.1%) > 5x ULN 1 (0.06%) 2 0 > 10x ULN 0 0 > 20x ULN 0 0 1Upper limit of normal; ALT alanine aminotransferase; AST aspartate aminotransferase 2AST elevation, Not Drug-Related as deemed by the investigator: subject newly initiated weight-lifting with laboratory results consistent with muscle injury *AST/ALT Categories are not mutually exclusive; No bilirubin elevations > 2x ULN across Studies 301, 302 and 303

Vlad Coric, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Biohaven, stated, "Fast-acting and long-lasting pain relief in an easy to use formulation is important to patients. Rimegepant provides these characteristics and we believe is the first oral CGRP receptor antagonist to report superiority over placebo on pain relief and return to normal functioning by 60 minutes. These results, combined with the previous data from the two prior Phase 3 trials, reinforce the potential of rimegepant to be an important new and differentiated option for the acute treatment of migraine."

The double-blind, randomized, multicenter, Phase 3 outpatient trial treated 1,375 patients across sites in the United States. Patients were required to have at least a one-year history of migraine (with or without aura), consistent with a diagnosis according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders. The trial was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rimegepant Zydis ODT formulation compared with placebo in the acute treatment of migraine. Patients were given a single 75 mg dose of rimegepant Zydis ODT or a matching placebo. They were instructed to take their study medication when they had a migraine which reached moderate or severe pain intensity.

Richard B. Lipton, M.D., Professor and Vice Chair of Neurology, and Director of the Montefiore Headache Center, at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine stated, "Migraine is a serious, incapacitating, and highly prevalent neurological disease affecting 15% of the population. People with migraine miss work and lose time with their families because of disabling pain and associated symptoms. The most widely used acute prescription drugs, triptans, have cardiovascular contraindications, do not work in everyone and have been associated with high recurrence rates in those who respond. Rimegepant Zydis ODT formulation is rapidly absorbed and has a long half-life. It is gratifying to see the attractive pharmacokinetic profile deliver on its promise in a randomized trial. If approved, rimegepant could potentially play an important role in helping people with migraine find relief from their pain and get back to what they need to do in their lives."

Biohaven has an exclusive worldwide license agreement with Catalent U.K. Swindon Zydis Limited, a subsidiary of Catalent, Inc. (NYSE: CTLT) ("Catalent") to provide Catalent's Zydis ODT formulation for the development of rimegepant. The agreement also provides exclusive rights for developing small molecule CGRP receptor antagonists with the Zydis ODT technology. Catalent's proprietary Zydis ODT fast-dissolve formulation is a unique, freeze-dried, oral solid dosage form that dissolves rapidly in the mouth, without the need for water. With more than 20 products launched in 50 countries and a dispersion speed of three seconds or less, Zydis ODT is generally recognized as the world's fastest and best-in-class orally dissolving tablet. Zydis is a registered trademark of R. P. Scherer Technologies, Inc.

Robert Croop, M.D., Chief Development Officer  Neurology at Biohaven commented, "We are very pleased with the performance of our novel rimegepant Zydis ODT and believe that this formulation enhances the benefits offered by rimegepant and heightens its potential to become a best-in-class agent for the acute treatment of migraine. The rimegepant Zydis ODT was designed to enable patients to experience relief wherever and whenever a migraine strikes. The results of Study 303 demonstrate the clinical utility of this novel formulation."

Additional secondary and exploratory outcome measures from this study are anticipated to be presented at upcoming scientific meetings in 2019.

Conference Call and Webcast

Biohaven will host a conference call and webcast today, December 3, 2018, at 8:30 a.m. ET (5:30 a.m. PT) to discuss topline results from the Phase 3 clinical trial of Rimegepant Zydis Orally Dissolving Tablet (ODT). The call can be accessed by dialing 877-407-9120 (domestic) or 412-902-1009 (international). To access the audio webcast with slides, please visit the "Events & Presentations" page in the Investors section of the Company's website at https://www.biohavenpharma.com/investors/news-events/events-presentations. An archive of today's teleconference and webcast will be available on Biohaven's website for 6 months following the call.

About Migraine

Migraine is both a widespread and disabling neurological disorder. The Migraine Research Foundation ranks migraine as the world's third most prevalent illness, affecting approximately 36 million people or 1 out of 4 households in the United States. And the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015 rates migraine as the seventh highest specific cause of disability worldwide. More than 90% of people with migraine are unable to work or function normally during an attack. Current treatment approaches, such as triptans, can be limited by headache recurrence within 24 hours after taking migraine medication, as well as cardiovascular contraindications and warnings.

About Rimegepant

Rimegepant (formerly known as BHV-3000), Biohaven's lead product candidate, is an orally available, selective and potent small molecule CGRP receptor antagonist. The company believes rimegepant has the potential to be a best-in-class CGRP receptor antagonist for the acute and preventive treatment of migraine with the ability to address important unmet needs. The efficacy and safety profile of rimegepant has been consistently established across four randomized controlled trials, now including three Phase 3 studies (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifiers: NCT03235479 (Study 301); NCT03237845 (Study 302), NCT03461757 (Study 303)) and a Phase 2b study (NCT01430442). The co-primary endpoints achieved in the Phase 3 trials are consistent with regulatory guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and provide the basis for a planned submission of a new drug application (NDA) to the FDA in 2019.

About Biohaven

Biohaven is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company with a portfolio of innovative, late-stage product candidates targeting neurological diseases, including rare disorders. Biohaven has combined internal development and research with intellectual property licensed from companies and institutions including Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, AstraZeneca AB, Yale University, Catalent, Rutgers, ALS Biopharma LLC and Massachusetts General Hospital. Currently, Biohaven's lead development programs include multiple compounds across its CGRP receptor antagonist, glutamate modulation, and myeloperoxidase inhibitor platforms. Biohaven's common shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and traded under the ticker symbol BHVN. More information about Biohaven is available at www.biohavenpharma.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties, including statements that are based on the current expectations and assumptions of the Company's management. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release, including the Company's timing of the expected NDA submission for rimegepant and its potential to be an improved treatment option for the acute treatment of migraine, are forward-looking statements. The use of certain words, including "believe" and "will" and similar expressions, is intended to identify forward-looking statements. The Company may not actually achieve the plans and objectives disclosed in the forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements. Various important factors could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those that may be expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements, including that topline data is based on preliminary analysis of key efficacy and safety data, and such data could change following a more comprehensive review and evaluation of more extensive data from the trials that the Company has not yet received, and these preliminary conclusions may not accurately reflect the complete results of the clinical trials, and uncertainties relating to the timing for submitting an NDA and the potential regulatory approval of rimegepant. Additional important factors to be considered in connection with forward-looking statements are described in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 14, 2018 and other filings Biohaven makes with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. The forward-looking statements are made as of this date and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

For further information, contact Dr. Vlad Coric, the Chief Executive Officer at [email protected]

SOURCE Biohaven Pharmaceutical Holding Company Ltd.

Related Links

http://biohavenpharma.com

"In the U.S., where people have plenty of options for marriage, it's likely to be those who are disabled or otherwise at a disadvantage who don't marry," she said. "And so, they might indeed do worse in health care because of the underlying issues that caused them not to marry." In her view, medical providers are justified in giving significant weight to marital status, "because unmarried patients are unlikely to do well, and they want to take patients who will do well."LONDON, December 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Calastone's entire global fund transaction network to be migrated to blockchain in May 2019

The first transition to blockchain for the global funds sector - making funds more accessible to all market participants and investors across 40 markets, and more than 1,700 financial organisations

Calastone's Distributed Market Infrastructure will transform the trading of mutual funds, creating a global funds marketplace best equipped to meet the needs of future generations of investors

The DMI has the potential to reduce the overall global cost of fund distribution by as much as US$4.2 billion * per year

Calastone, the global fund transaction network, today announces that its entire global network of more than 1,700 financial organisations, across 40 global markets, will be migrated to blockchain in May 2019 via the company's new Distributed Market Infrastructure (DMI).

The migration, a world-first, connects one of the largest communities of global financial organisations using distributed ledger technology, marking a significant step for the digitalising of the funds sector.

The DMI creates a global funds marketplace, in which buyers and sellers can connect and transact. It creates an ecosystem within which the trading, settlement and servicing of funds is friction free, eliminating ever-growing risk and costs for fund managers and investors, embedded within the current system.

At the same time, organisations can leverage the open technology on which the DMI is built, allowing them to innovate, stay competitive and offer new services and investment opportunities better suited to the changing, more sophisticated needs of modern investors.

Calastone believes that the overall global cost of fund distribution could be reduced by as much as US$4.2 billion*, achieved through the technological mutualisation of the trading and settlement processes.

Campbell Brierley, Calastone's Chief Innovation Officer, comments;

"Calastone's DMI will totally transform the trading and servicing of funds and has the potential to realise significant long-term value.

"By bringing all trading relationships together, within our shared blockchain-enabled infrastructure, all participants benefit through the real-time view of each record and powerfully, from a data perspective, a single version of the truth. Instantly this alleviates common friction points that exist today, including areas such as reconciliation and settlement, which are resolved automatically with all transactions being performed in the same environment. By making friction-free trading accessible to all parties in the value chain, we are creating an environment that marks an inflection point for the future of the funds sector, optimised to meet the needs of customers and investors now and in the long-term."

The funds industry trails other financial services sectors, still beset by manual processes, outdated systems and technologies. This has led to a high cost of distribution which ultimately impacts the investor and marketability of funds, which themselves compete with other forms of investment.

This largely results from the traditional way funds are traded, which is opaque, fragmented and doesn't work in the interest of investors. There are significant pressures on the industry to adapt to meet investor demands for greater speed, transparency and return on capital.

The DMI addresses this directly, in creating a platform that digitalises the trading, settlement and distribution of funds by bringing together all market participants and equipping them with the tools to innovate, grow and differentiate. Clients using the DMI will be able to leverage the benefits of the technology through a range of new services and capabilities, alleviating risk, cost and improving investor experience across all parts of the value chain.

Stephen Leggett, Calastone's Chief Operating Officer, comments;

"Our commitment to innovation drives our continued investment into our technology. Migrating our global transaction network onto the new DMI will be a seamless experience for our customers, all of which will quickly and easily be able to leverage the advantages that distributed ledger technology affords. We are already working with a number of clients who recognise the capability that the DMI can offer immediately and for the long-term."

Julien Hammerson, Calastone's Chief Executive Officer, comments;

"The launch of our DMI marks an exciting step for the industry in accelerating the digitisation of the funds sector and is a significant achievement for Calastone. The migration of our global network is the culmination of years of hard work and continued investment in innovation.

"Funds remain a vital investment vehicle, though remain hampered by continually rising costs and threat of competition, ultimately rendering the current system economically and operationally unsustainable. Through leveraging blockchain technology, the DMI transforms the way in which funds are traded, enabling an investment management community that can meet the changing needs of investors."

*Calastone has calculated the potential cost savings of moving to a distributed and mutualised market infrastructure using data from Deloitte's study "Europe's fund expenses at a crossroads; The benefits of mutualizing the cost of distribution" alongside data from the 2018 Investment Company Fact Book. Calastone's calculation has been applied to mutual fund assets under management for the global funds market, excluding the USA.

About Calastone

Calastone is the largest global funds transaction network, connecting many of the world's leading financial organisations. Our mission is to make funds accessible to everyone by reducing the frictional cost of trading. We use smart technology solutions and industry collaboration to lower operational risk and enhance client profitability through digitisation and automation.

Over 1,700 customers in 40 countries and territories benefit from Calastone's services, processing over 9 million messages and 170 billion of transactions each month.

Calastone is headquartered in London and has offices in Luxembourg, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore and Sydney.

For more information, please contact:

FTI Consulting LLP

Ollie Bailey-Pratt / Darius Alexander

[email protected]

Tel: +44(0)20-3727-1000

SOURCE CalastoneNASHVILLE, Tenn., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Captain D's, the nation's leading fast casual seafood restaurant, announced today the opening of its newest franchised location in Stephenville, Texas, marking its first location in the city and 16th overall in the state. Located at 3015 W. Washington St., the new restaurant is the first of three new openings that Captain D's has slated for this month, reflecting the surge of franchise development the brand has consistently experienced throughout 2018, expanding its presence in key markets including Texas, Missouri and Mississippi.

The new Stephenville restaurant is owned and operated by first-time Captain D's franchisee Mohammad "Jimmy" K. Jamshed of Alaskan Ventures LLC, and marks the first of three restaurants he's currently developing in Texas. Jamshed is a franchising industry veteran with more than 20 years of experience in multi-unit executive management, owning and operating several convenience stores and gas stations as well as five Burger King restaurants.

"Captain D's is a favorite among guests and franchisees alike because of its commitment to excellence in everything it does. Since signing my first agreement with the brand last year, I've been blown away by the level of support provided by their highly experienced corporate team, which motivated me to sign on for another restaurant while my existing agreement was still in progress," said Jimmy Jamshed. "I'm thrilled to be part of the brand's growth in Texas and to bring the first Captain D's to the Stephenville community."

Captain D's has continued to identify Texas as a prime market for expansion. In addition to the opening in Stephenville, the brand opened a new restaurant in Plano earlier this year and currently has several locations in development throughout the state, with a new restaurant slated to open in Bonham in Q2 2019. This ongoing growth in Texas further signifies the outstanding success the brand has achieved over the past several years, which has fueled a surge in franchise and corporate development. Throughout the past year, the company has opened more than 10 new locations and inked numerous franchise development agreements to open new restaurants in states like Florida, North Carolina, Illinois, Michigan and Oklahoma.

Coupled with its ongoing menu innovation, Captain D's credits its new restaurant beach design with contributing to the brand's ongoing strong performance. To date, nearly 80 percent of all restaurants have been reimaged to the brand's new vibrant, coastal design. With these efforts, Captain D's has remained true to what it does best  serving high-quality seafood with warm hospitality at an affordable price in a welcoming atmosphere.

With more than 530 restaurants in 22 states, Captain D's is the fast-casual seafood leader and number one seafood franchise in America ranked by average unit volume. The company is currently seeking single- and multi-unit operators to join in the brand's rapid expansion. For more information about franchise opportunities, visit http://www.captaindsfranchising.com or call 800-314-4819.

ABOUT CAPTAIN D'S

Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Captain D's has more than 530 restaurants in 22 states. Captain D's is the nation's leading fast casual seafood restaurant and was named the #1 seafood chain in the QSR 50, ranked by AUV. Founded in 1969, Captain D's has been offering its customers high-quality seafood at reasonable prices in a welcoming atmosphere for almost 50 years. Captain D's serves a wide variety of seafood that includes freshly prepared entrees and the company's signature batter dipped fish. The restaurants also offer premium-quality, grilled items such as shrimp, Tilapia and Salmon, as well as hushpuppies, desserts and freshly brewed, Southern-style sweet tea, a Captain D's favorite. For more information, please visit www.captainds.com.

Contact:

Nikki Rode

Fish Consulting

954-893-9150

[email protected]

SOURCE Captain D's

Related Links

http://www.captainds.com

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) donated $380,000 to the United Way's California wildfire recovery efforts after hosting a fundraiser in late November. More than 75,000 Californians showed their support for wildfire victims by visiting the 154 participating Chipotle restaurants in the Sacramento and Los Angeles region during the fundraiser event.

"We hope this donation to the United Way's California wildfire recovery efforts helps individuals and families impacted by some of the worst wildfires in our state's history to re-establish their lives and rebuild," said Laurie Schalow, Chief Communications Officer at Chipotle. "We felt it was important to do our part and help the communities affected by these disasters through a United Way donation."

Donated funds to local United Ways are fueling interim- and long-term recovery assistance to residents affected by the devastating wildfires in Northern and Southern California. This is part of $1.4 million that Chipotle has donated since 2017 to help United Way rebuild communities after natural diasters. Chipotle donated to United Way relief efforts for the Mexico earthquake and Hurricanes Harvey and Irma in 2017 as well as Hurricane Florence in 2018.

"United Way is incredibly grateful that Chipotle continues to reach out during these natural disasters to help those in need," said Lisa Bowman, United Way Worldwide's Chief Marketing Officer. "So many people, homes and communities have been affected by the California wildfires, and it will take time to get back to any semblance of normalcy. It's heartening to see such generous support from our partner, Chipotle, and its customers."

In addition to the United Way fundraiser, Chipotle donated meals to feed volunteers at the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) at the American Red Cross of Los Angeles.

For more information on how to support California wildfire relief efforts, visit UnitedWay.org/Recovery.

ABOUT CHIPOTLE

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically-cooked, real food with wholesome ingredients without added colors, flavors or other additives. Chipotle had nearly 2,450 restaurants as of September 30, 2018 in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany and is the only restaurant company of its size that owns and operates all its restaurants. With more than 70,000 employees passionate about providing a great guest experience, Chipotle is a longtime leader and innovator in the food industry. Chipotle is committed to making its food more accessible to everyone while continuing to be a brand with a demonstrated purpose as it leads the way in digital, technology and sustainable business practices. Steve Ells, founder and executive chairman, first opened Chipotle starting with a single restaurant in Denver, Colorado in 1993. For more information or to place an order online, visit WWW.CHIPOTLE.COM.

ABOUT UNITED WAY

United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. Supported by 2.9 million volunteers, 9 million donors worldwide and $4.7 billion raised every year, United Way is the world's largest privately-funded nonprofit. United Way is engaged in nearly 1,800 communities across more than 40 countries and territories worldwide to create sustainable solutions to the challenges facing communities. United Way partners include global, national and local businesses, nonprofits, government, civic and faith-based organizations, along with educators, labor leaders, health providers, senior citizens, students and more. For more information about United Way, please visit UnitedWay.org. Follow us on Twitter: @UnitedWay and #LiveUnited.

SOURCE Chipotle Mexican Grill

Related Links

www.chipotle.com

STERLING, Va., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate selects PAE ISR to participate in the Robotic Aircraft Sensor Program  Borders.

DHS S&T is looking for unmanned aerial systems with different sensors useful in search-and-rescue, reconnaissance, active shooter response, hostage rescue situations, and many other border and critical infrastructure security scenarios. This program is designed to collect data from the UAS and sensor supplier community to inform DHS S&T and its stakeholders in the Homeland Security Enterprise of current capabilities. "This is a unique opportunity to demonstrate the Resolute Eagle's capabilities against a wide-variety of scenarios," said Joe Sartiano, PAE ISR chief operating officer. "We look forward to supporting this important program and showcasing the latest industry leading technology."

"The Resolute Eagle was designed for exactly these type of missions," said Qazzafi Butt, Ph.D., PAE ISR chief engineer. "The Resolute Eagle is a multi-intelligence capable, Group 3 UAS platform with long-range capabilities that provide operators flexible payload configurations, launch environments and mission profiles."

The Resolute Eagle also provides real-time Command and Control, data transfers and multiple communication protocols. They include Line of Sight, Beyond Visual Line of Sight, and Satellite Communications enabled Beyond Line of Sight capabilities, plus large payload capacity enables a wide range of law enforcement, homeland security, humanitarian and commercial missions.

The single, reconfigurable aircraft comes in two configurationsstandard and vertical take-off/landingwith a flight endurance of 12 to 18+ hours depending on configuration. It is runway independent and offers the VTOL configuration for deployment and recovery in challenging conditions, including maritime and Special Forces operations. The aircraft also features a large payload capacity of 75+ lbs. (34.0 kg), very low acoustic signature at mission altitudes, small logistical footprint, and significant power onboard for multi-intelligence payload integration.

The RASP-B program will focus primarily on border security and law enforcement capabilities and provide training opportunities for border security operators to assess UAS and sensor supplier systems under typical border mission scenarios. Testing will take place in controlled airspace at Camp Shelby located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, with an eye on developing concepts of operation for unmanned systems and sensors.

About PAE ISR

PAE ISR, LLC provides intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance solutions and services to U.S. government agencies, NATO, and other international organizations. As a lead systems integrator and full-service provider for unmanned aerial systems, PAE ISR has significant experience in system integration, test and evaluation, operations and maintenance, logistics, training, deployment support, and leased UAS services.

For additional information, please follow us on our social media platforms: LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.

SOURCE PAE ISRLynch, who has announced plans to retire in 2019, joins such racing luminaries as Bill France Sr., Bill France Jr., Richard Petty, Rick Hendrick, Jack Roush and Bruton Smith in receiving the Shuman award. Buddy Shuman was a beloved member of the NASCAR community who competed in Grand National (now Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series) racing before serving as the sanctioning body's first technical inspector.

Lynch began his career as a show-car driver in the early 1980s. In 1993, he joined the operations staff at Talladega, the 2.66-mile tri-oval that annually offers some of the sport's most exciting racing. From the moment he assumed responsibility for the track, Lynch focused on turning Talladega into a bucket-list destination for racing enthusiasts, with unlimited free camping, more comfortable seating, concerts and other fan-friendly amenities. His commitment to a world-class fan experience continues with a soon-to-be-completed, $50 million enhancement of the track's infield.

"Grant Lynch's legacy, like that of Buddy Shuman, will be the extraordinarily strong connection he has forged with NASCAR fans," said Tim Nelson, motorsports director for Federal-Mogul Motorparts. "His visionary leadership of one of the sport's iconic tracks has helped the Cup Series and its sponsors connect with a new generation of enthusiasts."

Champion automotive products  including spark plugs, filters, batteries, wipers and lighting components  are leading choices of talented drivers, professional technicians, engine builders and consumers worldwide. To learn more about Champion, please visit www.championautoparts.com. Follow Champion on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ChampionParts and Instagram at www.instragram.com/ChampionParts.

About Tenneco

Headquartered in Lake Forest, Illinois, Tenneco is one of the world's leading designers, manufacturers and marketers of Ride Performance and Clean Air products and technology solutions for diversified markets, including light vehicle, commercial truck, off-highway equipment and the aftermarket, with 2017 revenues of $9.3 billion and approximately 32,000 employees worldwide.

On October 1, 2018, Tenneco completed the acquisition of Federal-Mogul, a leading global supplier to original equipment manufacturers and the aftermarket with nearly 55,000 employees globally and 2017 revenues of $7.8 billion. Additionally, the company expects to separate its businesses to form two new, independent companies, an Aftermarket and Ride Performance company as well as a new Powertrain Technology company, in late 2019.

About the Future Aftermarket and Ride Performance Company

Following the separation, the aftermarket and ride performance company will be one of the largest global multi-line, multi-brand aftermarket companies, and one of the largest global OE ride performance and braking companies. The aftermarket and ride performance company's principal product brands will feature Monroe, Walker, Clevite Elastomers, MOOG, Fel-Pro, Wagner, Champion and others. The Aftermarket and Ride Performance company would have 2017 pro-forma revenues of $6.4 billion, with 57% of those revenues from aftermarket and 43% from original equipment customers.

About the Future Powertrain Technology Company

Following the separation, the powertrain technology company will be one of the world's largest pure-play powertrain companies serving OE markets worldwide with engineered solutions addressing fuel economy, power output, and criteria pollution requirements for gasoline, diesel and electrified powertrains. The powertrain technology company would have 2017 pro-forma revenues of $10.7 billion, serving light vehicle, commercial truck, off-highway and industrial markets.

CONTACT:

Karen Shulhan (Federal-Mogul Motorparts)  248.354.4383

[email protected]

Drew Shippy (Pinnacle Media)  330.688.3500

[email protected]

SOURCE Federal-Mogul Motorparts

Related Links

http://www.federalmogul.com

AUSTIN, Minn., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE:HRL) today announced it has completed the sale of its Fremont, Neb., processing facility to Wholestone Farms, LLC.

The transaction includes a processing facility and a multiyear agreement to supply pork raw materials to Hormel Foods. The current Fremont plant management team and workforce will remain in place to ensure business continuity for all stakeholders. The purchase price was $30 million in cash, subject to select inventory and administrative adjustments.

ABOUT HORMEL FOODS  Inspired People. Inspired Food.

Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minn., is a global branded food company with over $9 billion in annual revenues across more than 80 countries worldwide. Its brands include SKIPPY, SPAM, Hormel Natural Choice, Applegate, Justin's, Wholly Guacamole, Hormel Black Label, Columbus and more than 30 other beloved brands. The company is a member of the S&P 500 Index and the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats, was named one of "The 100 Best Corporate Citizens" by Corporate Responsibility Magazine for the 10th year in a row, and has received numerous other awards and accolades for its corporate responsibility and community service efforts. In 2016, the company celebrated its 125th anniversary and announced its new vision for the future  Inspired People. Inspired Food.  focusing on its legacy of innovation. For more information, visit www.hormelfoods.com and http://csr.hormelfoods.com/.

Contact: 507-434-6352

[email protected]

SOURCE Hormel Foods Corporation

Related Links

http://www.hormel.com

PITTSBURGH, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- An inventor from Hoboken, N.J., has developed the UNIVERSAL HANG, an expandable, foldable device that assists users in folding and hanging various articles of clothing. A prototype is available.

"I was inspired by personal experience to develop my idea. I despise folding clothes. My invention offers a fun, simple and effective way to fold and hang clothes," said the inventor. "This device offers a dual-purpose, universal design that is easy to manipulate and use."

Firstly, UNIVERSAL HANG helps a user neatly fold a variety of clothing items. It eliminates the tedious and time-consuming task of folding clothes. It will also prevent unwanted wrinkling and creases in clothing. Once folding is complete, there is no need to find a hanger. The device turns into a convenient hanger.

The original design was submitted to the New Jersey office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 17-NJD-1806, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.

SOURCE InventHelp

Related Links

http://www.inventhelp.com

PITTSBURGH, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- "This refreshing drink is a family recipe," said inventors from Santa Ana, Calif. "It could provide a delicious and energizing drink on a hot day or night."

They designed the CHILATE-DRINK OF THE GODS to provide energizing-inducing qualities while offering a delicious and satisfying taste. This invention may improve the drinker's energy level and stamina. Additionally, it could ensure that the drinker gets nutrition that may stimulate the mind and body.

The original design was submitted to the Orange County office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 17-OCC-1402, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.

SOURCE InventHelp

Related Links

http://www.inventhelp.com

ZUG, Switzerland, December 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Cilag GmbH International, an affiliate of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, announced today it has entered into a worldwide collaboration and license agreement with argenx BVBA and argenx SE, to develop and commercialize cusatuzumab (ARGX-110). Cusatuzumab is an investigational therapeutic antibody that targets CD70, an immune checkpoint implicated in numerous cancers, including hematological malignancies. This first-in-class SIMPLE Antibody is currently in Phase 1/2 clinical trials to evaluate its safety, tolerability and efficacy in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Separately, an equity investment by Johnson & Johnson Innovation  JJDC, Inc. (JJDC) will be made in argenx SE.



Updated data from the ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical study evaluating cusatuzumab in combination with azacytidine in newly diagnosed patients with AML unfit for intensive chemotherapy are being presented during an argenx workshop held in conjunction with the 60th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Hematology (ASH). The data showed promising anti-leukemia activity in these patients.i

"We believe CD70 is an important target in the biology of select cancers, and we are eager to accelerate the development of this innovative antibody together with argenx," said Yusri Elsayed, M.D., MHSc., Ph.D., Vice President, Hematologic Malignancies Disease Area Leader, Janssen Research & Development, LLC. "Phase 1/2 data in acute myeloid leukemia showed the activity of cusatuzumab, and we hope to translate these findings to improve outcomes for patients with myeloid malignancies."

Under the terms of the agreement, Janssen will jointly develop and globally commercialize cusatuzumab in AML, MDS, and potential future indications, as well as next generation CD70 antibodies. Janssen will make an upfront payment of $300 million USD and additional payments based upon the achievement of certain development, regulatory and sales milestones. Janssen is responsible for commercialization worldwide. In the U.S., argenx has the option to participate in commercialization efforts. Janssen will record worldwide net trade sales. In the U.S., the companies have agreed to share the economics 50/50, and outside the U.S., Janssen will pay double-digit sales royalties to argenx.

"We are pleased to enter into this strategic partnership with argenx and advance a promising antibody for the treatment of AML and other blood cancers where current treatment is limited and effective new interventions are needed for patients," said Mathai Mammen, M.D., Ph.D., Global Head, Janssen Research & Development, LLC. "The addition of cusatuzumab deepens our portfolio and adds to our expertise in oncology, and more importantly, it reflects our commitment to combine Janssen's strengths with those of other outstanding teams to advance science that we believe can transform the treatment of diseases and the lives of patients worldwide."

The transactions are subject to customary closing conditions, including clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, and expected to close in the first quarter of 2019.

About Cusatuzumab

Cusatuzumab (ARGX-110) is an investigational SIMPLE Antibody targeting CD70, an immune checkpoint target involved in hematological malignancies, several solid tumors and severe autoimmune diseases. Cusatuzumab is designed to: block CD70; kill cancer cells expressing CD70 through complement-dependent cytotoxicity, enhanced antibody-dependent cell-mediated phagocytosis and enhanced antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity; and restore immune surveillance against solid tumors.ii

About AML

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) starts in the bone marrow (the soft inner part of certain bones, where new blood cells are made), but most often it quickly moves into the blood, as well. It can sometimes spread to other parts of the body including the lymph nodes, liver, spleen, central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), and testicles.iii

About MDS

Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) are a group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy blood cells. MDS is often referred to as a "bone marrow failure disorder." MDS is primarily a disease of the elderly (most patients are older than age 65), but MDS can affect younger patients as well.iv

About Cilag GmbH International

Cilag GmbH International was founded in 1984 as the supply chain coordination center for the pharmaceuticals sector in Zug. Today, it offers a wide range of support activities for numerous Swiss companies in the pharmaceutical, consumer and medical device and diagnostics segments of the Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies.

About the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson

At the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, we are working to create a world without disease. Transforming lives by finding new and better ways to prevent, intercept, treat and cure disease inspires us. We bring together the best minds and pursue the most promising science. We are Janssen. We collaborate with the world for the health of everyone in it. Learn more at www.janssen.com. Follow us at @JanssenGlobal. Cilag GmbH International and Janssen Research & Development, LLC are part of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson.

About Johnson & Johnson Innovation - JJDC, Inc.

Johnson & Johnson Innovation - JJDC, Inc. (JJDC) is the strategic venture capital arm of Johnson & Johnson and a long-term investment partner to global healthcare entrepreneurs. Founded in 1973, JJDC continues a legacy of customizing deals for data-driven companies across the continuum of healthcare, with the goal of turning great ideas into transformative new pharmaceutical, medical device and consumer healthcare products. Visit our website at www.jjdc.com.

About Johnson & Johnson

At Johnson & Johnson, we believe good health is the foundation of vibrant lives, thriving communities and forward progress. That's why for more than 130 years, we have aimed to keep people well at every age and every stage of life. Today, as the world's largest and most broadly-based health care company, we are committed to using our reach and size for good. We strive to improve access and affordability, create healthier communities, and put a healthy mind, body and environment within reach of everyone, everywhere. We are blending our heart, science and ingenuity to profoundly change the trajectory of health for humanity.



This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding product development and the potential benefits and treatment impact of the collaboration and license agreement with argenx to develop and commercialize cusatuzumab (ARGX-110). The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from the expectations and projections of Cilag GmbH International, Janssen Research & Development, LLC, Johnson & Johnson Innovation - JJDC, Inc. any of the other Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson and/or Johnson & Johnson. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: the satisfaction of closing conditions for the transactions, including clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act; the potential that the expected benefits and opportunities related to the collaboration may not be realized or may take longer to realize than expected; challenges inherent in new product development, including the uncertainty of clinical success and obtaining regulatory approvals; competition, including technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; uncertainty of commercial success for new products; the ability of the company to successfully execute strategic plans; impact of business combinations and divestitures; challenges to patents; changes in behavior and spending patterns or financial distress of purchasers of health care products and services; and global health care reforms and trends toward health care cost containment. A further list and descriptions of these risks, uncertainties and other factors can be found in Johnson & Johnson's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, including in the sections captioned "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" and "Item 1A. Risk Factors," in the company's most recently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and the company's subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Copies of these filings are available online at www.sec.gov, www.jnj.com or on request from Johnson & Johnson. Neither the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies nor Johnson & Johnson undertakes to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments.

i Ochsenbein, Adrian (2018, December). 2680 Argx-110 Targeting CD70, in Combination with Azacitidine, Shows Favorable Safety Profile and Promising Anti-Leukemia Activity in Newly Diagnosed AML Patients in an Ongoing Phase 1/2 Clinical Trial. American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA, U.S.

ii Silence K. et al. mAbs 2014; 6 (2):523-532

iii "What Is Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)?" American Cancer Society. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/acute-myeloid-leukemia/about/what-is-aml.html

iv "What is MDS?" MDS Foundation. Retrieved from https://www.mds-foundation.org/what-is-mds/

Media Contacts: Investor Contacts: Brian Kenney Christopher DelOrefice Phone: 215-620-0111 Phone: 732-524-2955 Email: [email protected]





Satu Glawe Lesley Fishman Phone: +49 172 294 6264 Phone: 732-524-3922 Email: [email protected]



SOURCE Cilag GmbH International

Related Links

https://www.janssen.com

TOKYO, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Kyowa Hakko Kirin Co., Ltd., (Kyowa Kirin) announces that additional data from the MAVORIC trial (Mogamulizumab anti-CCR4 Antibody Versus ComparatOR In CTCL) will be presented at the 60th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Hematology (ASH), held in San Diego, California, on December 1-4.1,2,3 Mogamulizumab is approved in the United States (U.S.) for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory mycosis fungoides (MF) or Sezary syndrome (SS) after at least one prior systemic therapy. MF and SS are the most common subtypes of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL).4

Three Kyowa Kirin-sponsored posters featuring post-hoc analyses of the pivotal MAVORIC study will be presented during the ASH meeting. MAVORIC is the first pivotal trial to use progression free survival (PFS) as a primary endpoint and the largest randomized study to compare systemic therapies in CTCL.5 Secondary endpoints included proportion of patients achieving an overall response rate (ORR), duration of response (DOR) and safety.5

"Mycosis fungoides and Sezary syndrome may have a severe impact on patients, yet may be indolent in nature, making it challenging for both patients and physicians to control the diseases over decades," said Jeffrey S. Humphrey, M.D., President of Kyowa Kirin Development. "These additional analyses of MAVORIC provide further insight into these rare and serious diseases."

The studies being presented at ASH include:

Abstract #3592: Evaluation of Symptom and Side Effect Bother in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma Patients Treated with Mogamulizumab or Vorinostat ( Hudgens S, Porcu P, Quaglino P, et al ) 1

) Abstract #2910: Long-Term Clinical Benefit to Anti-CCR4 Mogamulizumab: Results from the Phase 3 MAVORIC Study in Previously Treated Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (CTCL) ( Bagot M, Dalle S, Sokol L, et al ) 2

) Abstract #1619: Efficacy of Mogamulizumab By Prior Systemic Therapy in Patients with Previously Treated Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma: Post Hoc Analysis from the Phase 3 MAVORIC Study (Zinzani, P, Horwitz S, Kim Y, et al)3

The Kyowa Hakko Kirin Group companies strive to contribute to the health and well-being of people around the world by creating new value through the pursuit of advances in life sciences and technologies.

Please see Poteligeo indication and Important Safety Information below.

INDICATION

POTELIGEO (mogamulizumab-kpkc) injection, for intravenous infusion is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory mycosis fungoides (MF) or Sezary syndrome (SS) after at least one prior systemic therapy.

Important Safety Information



Warnings and Precautions:

Dermatologic toxicity: Monitor patients for rash throughout the course of treatment. For patients who experienced dermatologic toxicity in Trial 1, the median time to onset was 15 weeks, with 25% of cases occurring after 31 weeks. Interrupt POTELIGEO for moderate or severe rash (Grades 2 or 3). Permanently discontinue POTELIGEO for life-threatening (Grade 4) rash or for any Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN).

Infusion reactions: Most infusion reactions occur during or shortly after the first infusion. Infusion reactions can also occur with subsequent infusions. Monitor patients closely for signs and symptoms of infusion reactions and interrupt the infusion for any grade reaction and treat promptly. Permanently discontinue POTELIGEO for any life-threatening (Grade 4) infusion reaction.

Infections: Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection and treat promptly.

Autoimmune complications: Interrupt or permanently discontinue POTELIGEO as appropriate for suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions. Consider the benefit/risk of POTELIGEO in patients with a history of autoimmune disease.

Complications of allogeneic HSCT after POTELIGEO: Increased risks of transplant complications have been reported in patients who received allogeneic HSCT after POTELIGEO. Follow patients closely for early evidence of transplant-related complications.

Adverse Reactions:

The most common adverse reactions (reported in  10% of patients) with POTELIGEO in the clinical trial were rash, including drug eruption (35%), infusion reaction (33%), fatigue (31%), diarrhea (28%), drug eruption (24%), upper respiratory tract infection (22%), musculoskeletal pain (22%), skin infection (19%), pyrexia (17%), edema (16%), nausea (16%), headache (14%), thrombocytopenia (14%), constipation (13%), anemia (12%), mucositis (12%), cough (11%), and hypertension (10%).

You are encouraged to report suspected adverse reactions to Kyowa Kirin, Inc. at 1-844-768-3544 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

About Kyowa Kirin

Kyowa Hakko Kirin Co., Ltd. is a research-based life sciences company, with special strengths in biotechnologies. In the core therapeutic areas of oncology, nephrology and immunology/allergy, Kyowa Hakko Kirin leverages leading-edge biotechnologies centered on antibody technologies, to continually discover innovative new drugs and to develop and market those drugs world-wide. In this way, the company is working to realize its vision of becoming a Japan-based global specialty pharmaceutical company that contributes to the health and wellbeing of people around the world. Kyowa Kirin International PLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kyowa Hakko Kirin and is a rapidly growing specialty pharmaceutical company engaged in the development and commercialization of prescription medicines for the treatment of unmet therapeutic needs in Europe and the United States. Kyowa Kirin International is headquartered in Scotland. You can learn more about the business at: www.kyowa-kirin.com .

About mogamulizumab

Mogamulizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody (mAb) directed against CC chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4), which is frequently expressed on leukemic cells of certain hematologic malignancies including CTCL (cutaneous T-cell lymphoma).6

About mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sezary Syndrome (SS)

MF and SS are the two most common subtypes of CTCL, a rare type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is characterized by localization of malignant T lymphocytes to the skin, and depending on the stage, the disease may involve skin, blood, lymph nodes, and viscera.5

About MAVORIC

MAVORIC is a Phase 3 open-label, multi-center, randomized study of mogamulizumab versus vorinostat in patients with MF and SS who have failed at least one prior systemic treatment.5 The study was conducted in the U.S., Europe, Japan and Australia, and randomized 372 patients to receive either mogamulizumab or vorinostat.5

Poteligeo is a registered trademark of Kyowa Hakko Kirin, Co., Ltd.

2018 Kyowa Hakko Kirin, Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

1 Hudgens S, Porcu P, Quaglino P, et al. Evaluation of Symptom and Side Effect Bother in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma Patients Treated with Mogamulizumab or Vorinostat. Data presented at: American Society of Hematology 2018 Annual Meeting: December 1-4, 2018; San Diego, California.

2 Bagot M, Dalle S, Sokol L, et al. Long-Term Clinical Benefit to Anti-CCR4 Mogamulizumab: Results from the Phase 3 Mavoric Study in Previously Treated Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (CTCL). Data presented at: American Society of Hematology 2018 Annual Meeting: December 1-4, 2018; San Diego, California.

3 Zinzani P, Horwitz S, Kim Y, et al. Efficacy of Mogamulizumab By Prior Systemic Therapy in Patients with Previously Treated Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma: Post Hoc Analysis from the Phase 3 Mavoric Study. Data presented at: American Society of Hematology 2018 Annual Meeting: December 1-4, 2018; San Diego, California.

4 Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma Facts. https://www.lls.org/sites/default/files/file_assets/cutaneoustcelllymphoma.pdf. Accessed May 2, 2018.

5 Kim YH, Bagot M, et al. Anti-CCR4 Monoclonal Antibody, Mogamulizumab, Demonstrates Significant Improvement in PFS Compared to Vorinostat in Patients with Previously Treated Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (CTCL): Results from the Phase III MAVORIC Study. Data presented at: American Society of Hematology 2017 Annual Meeting: December 9-12, 2017; Atlanta, Georgia.

6 National Cancer Institute. Mogamulizumab. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-drug/def/mogamulizumab. Accessed May 2, 2018.

SOURCE Kyowa Hakko Kirin Co., Ltd.

Related Links

http://www.kyowa-kirin.com

About a dozen people on our tour spent the next hour sitting on wooden benches lining a raised platform while a guide pointed out the stars, constellations and planets. He talked about the people who lived here long ago, when there were so many stars twinkling in the skies that people named the dark spaces in between them, similar to the way we name constellations. We had a telescope at our disposal for magnified viewing, but I preferred just looking up and listening to him talk. Before it was over, each of us posed for a photo with the Milky Way as a backdrop, providing a nice souvenir.(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/791553/Michelson_Diagnostics_early_stage_melanoma.jpg )



(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/791552/Michelson_Diagnostics_advanced_melanoma.jpg )



A more rapid assessment of the risk would potentially allow patients with more serious invasive disease access to the right treatment more directly, doing away with delays inherent in the traditional diagnosis.

The technique may also lead to reducing the number of patients with less aggressive tumours receiving sentinel lymph node biopsies, an expensive in-patient procedure which sometimes results in unpleasant long-term side-effects.

The clinical study was published in the November issue of Experimental Dermatology and looked at the blood vessel shapes in OCT images of 127 melanomas at a variety of states of disease progression, collected at four leading European dermatology groups (University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, General Hospital Augsburg, University of Copenhagen and Collegium Medicum Berlin). The device used was Michelson Diagnostics' VivoSight OCT scanner which has regulatory clearance in Europe, USA and Australia for clinical use imaging skin. It was equipped with Dynamic OCT software that detects and displays the tiny blood vessels in the skin and the tumour.

Lead author Dr Nathalie de Carvalho (University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy) explained:

"Cancers grow their own blood vessel network to supply oxygen and nutrients. We analysed the shapes of the vessels in the OCT images of melanomas and correlated the frequency of different shapes with the Breslow depths (the thickness of the tumours, measured from biopsy samples). We found that certain vessel shapes appeared much more frequently in thicker tumours. The vessels grown by the tumour seem to grow more chaotically and become more malformed as the cancer progresses."

The Breslow depth is already used to assess the progress of the disease from early stages to serious metastatic disease, but it takes time for the biopsy results to come back from the laboratory. This new imaging approach may provide a short-cut to more quickly identify advanced metastatic melanomas so that patients can be fast-tracked to the right treatment.

Professor Julia Welzel (General Hospital Augsburg, Germany) said: "Our goal with this work is to help develop a faster, more efficient and less invasive diagnostic and treatment pathway for melanoma. Patients with advanced disease should get aggressive treatment as quickly as possible; also those with early-stage melanomas should not have to undergo expensive invasive Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy operations if their melanoma is reliably confirmed as very low-risk. We believe Dynamic OCT imaging could help with these goals and the results of this study are very encouraging. The next stage of our work is to analyse the link between vessel shapes and the actual degree of metastasis of the melanomas in a larger cohort, and not just the Breslow depth."

Jon Holmes, CEO of Michelson Diagnostics, said: "This very exciting result shows for the first time that VivoSight OCT imaging may have a powerful future role in the clinical pathway for melanoma."

Please find full paper here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/exd.13783



De Carvalho N, Welzel J, Schuh S, Themstrup L, Ulrich M, Jemec GB, Holmes J, Kaleci S, Chester J, Bigi L, Ciardo S. The vascular morphology of melanoma is related to Breslow index: an in vivo study with dynamic optical coherence tomography. Experimental dermatology. 2018 Sep 15.

For more About Michelson Diagnostics' VivoSight OCT scanner go to http://www.vivosight.com

Contact Details:

In the UK and rest of world:

Michelson Diagnostics:

e: [email protected]

t: +44(0)20-8308-1695



In USA:

e: [email protected]

t: +1(408)504-7391



SOURCE Michelson DiagnosticsNEW YORK, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Greenhill & Co., Inc. (NYSE: GHL), a leading independent investment bank, announced today that Naeem Merchant will join the Firm in New York as a Managing Director in the health care team where he will focus on the global pharmaceutical and pharma services sectors.

Mr. Merchant has focused on the health care sector for more than 10 years, most recently as a Managing Director at Credit Suisse. Prior to his time with Credit Suisse, he was with Barclays and Morgan Stanley.

Scott L. Bok, Chief Executive Officer of Greenhill, said, "We are pleased to be adding Naeem to our senior health care team. That team has been a top contributor to Firm revenue on multiple occasions in recent years, and Naeem will help us both deepen our client coverage and also broaden it to new areas like pharma services. More broadly, this move is another step in our ongoing effort to expand our senior team primarily by adding industry sector specialists. Our pipeline of attractive senior recruits remains strong, and we still have a lot of gaps to fill with new talent."

Greenhill & Co., Inc. is a leading independent investment bank entirely focused on providing financial advice on significant mergers, acquisitions, restructurings, financings and capital raising to corporations, partnerships, institutions and governments globally. It acts for clients located throughout the world from its offices in New York, Chicago, Dallas, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Madrid, Melbourne, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Stockholm, Sydney, Tokyo and Toronto.

Contact:

Patrick J. Suehnholz

Director of Investor Relations

Greenhill & Co., Inc.

(212) 389-1800

SOURCE Greenhill & Co., Inc.

Related Links

www.greenhill.com

DANBURY, Conn., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) has announced a meeting for patients, caregivers and the medical community. The 2019 Living Rare, Living Stronger NORD Patient & Family Forum will take place June 21 - 23 in Houston, Texas. In addition, the 2019 Rare Impact Awards will take place on June 22, in conjunction with the Forum in Houston.

Living Rare, Living Stronger will be held in a different part of the U.S. each year, bringing the rare disease community together with physicians, medical students, and allied health professionals for a program of learning, sharing and connecting. It will have something for the entire community, including:

Patients and their families (children welcome)

Caregivers

Medical professionals (clinicians, nurses, pharmacists, and more)

Students (medical, genetic counseling, and more)

Patient organization leaders and patient advocates

Researchers and academics

Industry

The agenda will include sessions in which patients and families can gain insights and practical tools for living their best lives with rare diseases, with tracks provided for newly diagnosed patients, long-term patients, caregivers and physicians/medical students. It will also be an opportunity for bonding and fun, with kids programming, a welcome dinner party, a wellness room with yoga and workshops.

"Serving patients and families by acting as a connector to support and information has long been integral to our mission at NORD," said Peter L. Saltonstall, President and CEO of NORD. "With Living Rare, Living Stronger, we are excited to be bringing back the type of patient and caregiver focused live programming that was one of our hallmarks for many years."

Each year, NORD honors those making a difference in the fight against rare diseases with Rare Impact Awards. In 2019, the RIA celebration will move from Washington, DC to Houston, in conjunction with Living Rare, Living Stronger. Nominations for Rare Impact Awards are open until January 11 and can be submitted here: https://rarediseases.org/2019-rare-impact-award-nominations/ .

To sign up for updates on Living Rare, Living Stronger and the Rare Impact Awards, including agenda information and sponsorship opportunities, click here . Registration will open in early 2019.

About the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is the leading independent advocacy organization representing all patients and families affected by rare diseases. NORD is committed to the identification, treatment and cure of the over 7,000 rare diseases, of which only 5% have an FDA-approved treatment or therapy. Rare diseases affect 25-30 million Americans, or 1 in every 10 people. More than half of those affected are children.

SOURCE National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)

Related Links

http://www.rarediseases.org

MIAMI, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Following a high demand for effective criminal defense in South Florida, Piotrowski Law has now relocated to a larger office in Miami as well as expanded north to Broward and Palm Beach County.

The new Miami office is conveniently located in the historic Alfred DuPont building at the corner of East Flagler Street and Northeast 2nd Avenue. Both the Broward and Palm Beach offices are also located in the downtown areas of Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach.

Since the founding of Piotrowski Law in 2010, Chad Piotrowski, Esq. has provided an unparalleled standard of representation for each of his clients. His experience as Assistant State Attorney for the 11th Judicial Circuit of Florida paired with his arsenal of legal strategies makes Chad one of the most sought out criminal litigators in the State.

Chad's priority is in the best interest of his clients and community, and he prides himself in his fight for civil rights. He is a front-runner in fighting police brutality and the use of excessive force in South Florida and vigorously fights for victims in the tri-county area.

"With new offices across South Florida, I am determined to hold local police departments accountable that are abusing their power and using excessive force when detaining individuals," said Piotrowski. "I am determined to provide effective, reliable and affordable criminal defense for those who feel the system is working against them."

If you or someone you know has experienced police brutality, felt like excessive force was used while being taken into custody, or simply need effective criminal defense, call Chad Piotrowski. With offices across South Florida and lawyers on call 24-hours a day, there is a qualified attorney ready to represent you.

Piotrowski Law is an experienced criminal defense lawyer with an extensive background fighting some of the toughest cases in Florida criminal court, revolutionizing tactical client representation methods. As a member of the National and Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Piotrowski holds an unmatched level of representation for his clients.

SOURCE Piotrowski Law

Related Links

https://cplaw-miami.com

"David has been instrumental in shaping our commercial banking strategy and in leading the transformation within the division that is now translating into sustainable growth and client impact," said Duke Dayal, President and CEO of Santander Bank. "His broad experience in client management, execution, underwriting and building and leading high-performing teams will help us continue to meet the needs of our clients and grow this business. I look forward to him leading the on-going transformation and momentum in the Commercial Bank."

Prior to joining Santander, Harnisch held a variety of leadership roles in the banking and finance industry, and was Executive Vice President and Head of Commercial Banking Underwriting and Portfolio Management at Citizens Financial Group. He holds a BA in Political Science from Boston College and an MBA from NYU Stern School of Business.

In 2018, Santander has expanded its Commercial Banking coverage in the U.S. with new bankers in the Southeast, Midwest and Southwest regions of the country. Santander Bank has also added specialized banking, foreign corporate banking, technology, media and telecommunications (TMT) banking, and a family office practice to better serve the unique needs of its clients.

Santander Bank, N.A . is one of the country's largest retail and commercial banks and an active provider of capital, treasury management, risk management and international solutions to thousands of corporate and institutional clients across a wide variety of industries and geographies in the United States. Offering specialty groups of experienced bankers in Asset Based Lending, Government Banking, Auto Finance, Commercial Real Estate Banking, Commercial Equipment & Vehicle Financing, Technology, Media & Telecommunications (TMT), Healthcare, Transportation & Logistics, Food & Beverage and Consumer Retail, along with experts in Middle Market and Corporate & Investment Banking, Santander earns the loyalty of its commercial banking clients by offering services that help them manage their operating needs, maximize their working capital and grow their business domestically and internationally. The Bank is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Madrid-based Banco Santander, S.A. (NYSE: SAN) - one of the most respected banking groups in the world with more than 125 million customers in the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. It is overseen by Santander Holdings USA, Inc., Banco Santander's intermediate holding company in the U.S. For more information on Santander Bank, please visit www.santanderbank.com.

Media Contact:

Laurie Kight

214-237-3690

[email protected]

SOURCE Santander Bank, N.A.

Related Links

http://www.santanderbank.com

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Special Counsel today debuted a company rebrand and new positioning that will integrate its previously acquired eDiscovery company and existing sub-brands under one digital footprint, emphasizing an end-to-end suite of specialized offerings and formally introducing its legal consulting division. The purpose of this transformation is not only to unify all aspects of Special Counsel's capabilities, but to meet the legal industry where it's headed, geographically, technically and functionally.

Special Counsel started in 1987 as a legal staffing provider and has grown exponentially over the last three decades. Forecasting client and industry demand, Special Counsel continued to cultivate its core services until it became what it is today, a full-service leader in legal consulting, attorney recruiting, legal talent, legal technology and eDiscovery solutions, with a growing international footprint.

"In addition to staff augmentation and executive search, for years our clients have sought our advice on legal industry trends, projections and strategy," said Laurie Chamberlin, president of Special Counsel. "They're looking beyond our talent insights to partner with us on customized, creative  and often technology-centric  approaches for addressing their broader business goals. We're so proud of our new look and repositioning because it is true to who we are and what we do today."

Special Counsel's new positioning breaks down its offerings into four divisions:

SCI

Special Counsel's existing legal talent and recruitment unit is now named SCI. This division will continue to build on its large network of legal support talent to help companies and law firms hire legal support professionals and legal technology specialists for contract and permanent positions. SCI also specializes in placing attorneys in interim positions.

Parker + Lynch Legal

Parker + Lynch Legal, Special Counsel's attorney recruiting division, will continue to operate at the gold standard for placing top candidates, from associate level to general counsel, in prominent law firms and corporate legal departments across the nation.

D4

D4, which was acquired by Special Counsel in 2016, will continue to be its technology and eDiscovery division. With a team of premier subject matter experts and cutting edge technology-based solutions, D4 specializes in delivering exceptional, flexible and innovative eDiscovery and managed services to law firms and corporations in the US, China and the UK.

EQ

Special Counsel will officially launch a legal consultancy division under the name of its former eDiscovery arm, EQ. This unit will partner with clients to solve challenges related to cybersecurity, data analysis, information governance, managed review and more.

"These four divisions are distinct, but share the same core values," said Chamberlin. "They enable us to be a flexible partner equipped to provide right-sized solutions and specialized resources on a case-by-case basis, and equally important, they allow our internal talent to hone their expertise while fostering collaboration across the larger organization. We believe these guiding principles will push Special Counsel further than it's ever gone before."

For more information about Special Counsel's new look and positioning, visit the redesigned website.

About Special Counsel

At Special Counsel, we are a leading provider of legal consulting, attorney recruiting, legal talent, legal technology and eDiscovery solutions, with a growing international footprint. But there's more to being a leader than having tremendous size and scale. Our strength comes from our ability to partner with clients to create solutions on a case-by-case basis. It comes from our gift for fostering, furthering and promoting the expertise of our people. And it comes from our commitment to doing business with transparency, flexibility and integrity. That's what sets us apart. That's what makes us Special. To learn how we can help you, visit specialcounsel.com.

Special Counsel is a proud part of the world's leading HR solutions partner, the Adecco Group, serving as its legal solutions business unit.

SOURCE Special Counsel

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THC BioMed Purchases Additional Strata Lots in its Current Kelowna Location

THC Biomed Makes 5th Cannabis Shipment to the Province Of B.C.

CSE.THC

OTC.THCBF

F.TFHC

VANCOUVER, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - THC BioMed Intl Ltd. (CSE: THC) ("THC", "THC BioMed" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has made its first shipment of cannabis to the province of Saskatchewan. The shipment includes THC BioMed's bestselling Cannabis strains in dried and pre-rolled forms.

THC is also pleased to announce that it has purchased two additional strata lots in the industrial complex in Kelowna that it currently occupies. THC also announced the purchase of additional strata units in this building in October and June 2018. The additional strata lots will be used for production purposes. THC purchased the properties as part of its expansion plan due to the high demand for its products. The purchase price was $700,000 plus fees and taxes, for a total of $733,020. THC purchased the strata lots for cash and did not require a mortgage.

Due to the high demand for our products, THC has completed its fifth (5th) shipment of cannabis products to the Province of B.C. This shipment included THC BioMed's premium CBD Strain, branded THC CBD, and our popular Atomical Haze strain.

THC continues to work vigorously toward securing supply agreements with various provincial governments.

About THC

THC's vision is to be on the leading edge of scientific research, development of products and services related to the medical cannabis industry while creating a standard of excellence. As the industry develops, it will become more important to focus on scientific research and development of products and services related to medical cannabis. Management believes THC BioMed is well-positioned to be in the forefront of this rapidly growing industry.

Please visit our website for a more detailed description of our business and services available. www.thcbiomed.com

Forward-Looking Information:

This press release may include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business of THC. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the management of THC. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "will," "may," "would," "expect," "intend," "plan," "seek," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential," "continue," "likely," "could" and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Although THC believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because THC can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release include that: (a) the additional strata lots will be used for production purposes, and (b) THC continues to work vigorously toward securing supply agreements with various provincial governments. THC disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or the accuracy of the contents of this release.

SOURCE THC BioMed

Related Links

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Over the course of 2018, the #MeToo Movement catalyzed change to dismantle shame surrounding sexual assault as survivors came forward to tell their stories. Perpetrators were held accountable and we witnessed the removals and resignations of everyone from high-powered executives to political figures and Hollywood producers. The collective force of #MeToo has forever transformed the cultural landscape of sexual violence against women .

Substantial change. Real results. Tangible impact. These are the notable markers of Brand of the Year, launched in 2017 by the The Masters in Branding program at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. Chosen by the program's esteemed faculty who take a sweeping look at commerce and culture, Brand of the Year disrupts industry competitions that often require a complicated entry form and fees to complete. It requires no reach or effort by any brand to be considered.

The inaugural Brand of the Year in 2017 was the pink, cat-eared "pussyhat" that became the icon of the Women's March. It signified the potential of branding to reach beyond the commercial and be democratizedtruly by the people for the people. In the same spirit, #MeToo, which began as a grassroots movement, has now circled the globe to unite people behind one cry and cause. This is the highest calling of branding: to bring people together for the benefit of humanity.

The power of branding to transform, catalyze, and inform change is illustrated by both the inaugural Brand of the Year, the "pussyhat," and this year's #MeToo movement. This cultural swell has been building in strength as people rally around the call to implement systemic change that will have a positive, lasting impact on our world. The possibility of a brand to make change has never been so tangible as we look into the future.

Join us on Friday, December 7, 2018, at Brandstand at SVA Theatre in New York City, where the #MeToo movement will be announced as the second annual Brand of the Year. RSVP here or email Emily Weiland to be added to the press list.

Press contact:

Emily Weiland, Director of Operations

SVA Masters in Branding Program

[email protected]

1 (803) 840-1843

ABOUT THE #METOO MOVEMENT

Founded by Tarana Burke in 2006 to help survivors of sexual violence, particularly Black women and girls, and other young women of color from low wealth communities, find pathways to healing, the goal of #MeToo is "to reframe and expand the global conversation around sexual violence to speak to the needs of a broader spectrum of survivors. Young people, queer, trans, and disabled folks, Black women and girls, and all communities of color. We want perpetrators to be held accountable and we want strategies implemented to sustain long term, systemic change."

ABOUT DEBBIE MILLMAN

Named "one of the most creative people working in business" by Fast Company, Debbie Millman is an author, educator, brand strategist, and host of the podcast, Design Matters. For 20 years, she was President of the design division at Sterling Brands, where she worked with over 200 of the world's largest brands. In 2009, she cofounded the world's first graduate program in branding at the School of Visual Arts in New York City.

ABOUT THE SVA MASTERS IN BRANDING PROGRAM

The Master of Professional Studies in Branding, the first of its kind, is a one-year graduate degree program that examines the relationship between design and strategy, and the power of design thinking as a way to combine creative skills with the problem-solving and decision-making processes of design and business.

SOURCE School of Visual ArtsEL PASO, Texas, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and the National Alliance for Hispanic Health will host the National Institutes of Health's All of Us Research Program's traveling exhibitthe All of Us Journeyon Thursday, December 6, and from Tuesday, December 11th until Friday, December 15th, from 9:00 a.m.  3:00 p.m. at the UTEP Undergraduate Learning Center (UGLC) Bldg. (500 West University Ave, El Paso, Texas 79968).

The hands-on exhibit raises awareness about the All of Us Research Programan ambitious effort to gather data from 1 million or more people living in the United States, to advance individualized prevention, treatment and care for people of all backgrounds. People ages 18 and older, regardless of health status, will be able to enroll and share information for research.

"UTEP is honored the National Alliance for Hispanic Health has chosen El Paso as an important stop for the All of Us national tour. With a population that is 83% Hispanic, El Paso is a window into the rapidly growing Hispanic community. This is important as there is minimal participation of Hispanics in biomedical, behavioral or social science research," Robert A. Kirken, Ph.D., College of Science Dean and principal investigator of UTEP's Border Biomedical Research Center (BBRC) explained. "Participation in research studies and clinical trials has tremendous implications for drug therapies and interventions which can make a huge difference in the health outcomes of our community. Our goal as health research scientists is to find ways to improve the quality of life of our community."

"To continue our work to increase the inclusion of Hispanics in clinical and biomedical research, we are bringing the All of Us Research Program to our communities. The participation of diverse communities in All of Us will help build the foundation for a new era of health care where medicine is tailored to each person," said Jane L. Delgado, Ph.D., M.S., President and CEO of the National Alliance for Hispanic Health.

About the National Alliance for Hispanic Health (the Alliance)  The Alliance is the nation's foremost science-based source of information and trusted non-partisan advocate for the best health outcomes for all. The Alliance represents thousands of Hispanic health providers across the nation providing services to more than 15 million each year. For more information, visit healthyamericas.org or call the Alliance's Su Familia National Hispanic Family Health Helpline at 1-866-783-2645.

About The University of Texas at El Paso  Located in one of the largest binational communities in the world, The University of Texas at El Paso is unique among research institutions. UTEP enrolls more than 25,000 students, most of whom are Hispanic and many who are the first in their families to attend college. The University invests about $95 million in research annually and still maintains the lowest net cost of any research university in the country. Learn more at utep.edu.

SOURCE National Alliance for Hispanic Health

Related Links

http://www.healthyamericas.org

This is the latest donation in an ambitious national campaign called "Fill-a-Bowl Feed-a-Soul" to help care for shelter pets waiting for their forever homes. Together, American Humane and Chicken Soup for the Soul are distributing more than one million meals annually of all-natural Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food to U.S. shelters and pet food distribution centers, which house, feed and care for millions of animals each year.

"Butte County is tremendously grateful to American Humane and Chicken Soup for the Soul for this generous donation," said Ryan Soulsby, Animal Control Program Supervisor for Butte County Animal Control. "This donated food will help sustain many animals in need here in our community."

"We salute how the rescue groups, Butte County Animal Control, NVADG, and the community have come together to provide lifesaving assistance for each other and their pets," said Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane. "And on behalf of these hungry, frightened animals who have been through so much with their families, we want to express our deep appreciation to our friends at Chicken Soup for the Soul. Thank you!"

Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food CEO Chris Mitchell said, "We're pleased that we can provide assistance to animals in need and we are glad to be working with American Humane on this vital campaign that will save so many lives."

About American Humane and the American Humane Rescue program

American Humane is the country's first national humane organization, founded in 1877. The American Humane Rescue program has been involved in virtually every major relief effort during the past 100 years, starting in World War I when we rescued and cared for 68,000 war horses wounded each month on the battlefields of Europe, the Great Ohio Flood of 1937, Pearl Harbor, Hurricane Katrina, the terror attacks on 9/11, the Japanese earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster, Superstorm Sandy, the tornadoes in Joplin and Oklahoma, the Louisiana and West Virginia floods, the California and Tennessee wildfires, and most recently, Hurricanes Harvey, Maria, Irma, and Florence.

To support American Humane's rescue efforts, please visit www.AmericanHumane.org.

About Chicken Soup for the Soul Pet Food

Chicken Soup for the Soul understands the unique relationship between people and pets. Health conscious consumers have been feeding their cats and dogs Chicken Soup for the Soul wholesome and balanced, super premium pet food for over 15 years. Holistic in nature, the entire line of products is made from only the finest ingredients: real meats, fruits, vegetables and herbs. With no added corn, wheat, soy, artificial coloring, flavoring or preservatives, Chicken Soup for the Soul pet food is inspired by your love for pets, and promotes overall health and well-being for dogs and cats. The products are proudly made in the USA, and feature rescued shelter pets on every bag. Core and grain-free formulas and a line of treats are available in independent pet specialty stores nationwide and online.

A portion of all proceeds from the sale of Chicken Soup for the Soul pet food goes to help shelters and pets in need through Chicken Soup for the Soul's Fill-a-Bowl  Feed-a-Soul program. The program, which was launched in association with American Humane, aims to provide over a million meals to shelter pets annually. Visit www.chickensouppets.com.

SOURCE American Humane

Related Links

http://www.americanhumane.org

PALO ALTO, Calif., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Varian (NYSE: VAR) today announced that its Board of Directors has scheduled the 2019 Annual Meeting of Stockholders for February 14, 2019 with a record date of December 17, 2018. The meeting will be held at the company's headquarters located at 3100 Hansen Way, Palo Alto, CA 94304 at 4:30 p.m. PT.

The meeting will be webcast and can be accessed at Varian Medical Systems' website at http://www.varian.com/investors. If you plan to attend the meeting, please RSVP to Katie Glenn, at 650-424-5631, or [email protected]. The meeting will be recorded, and a replay will be available on the investor relations page on the company's web site at http://www.varian.com/.

About Varian

Varian is a leader in developing and delivering cancer care solutions and is focused on creating a world without fear of cancer. Headquartered in Palo Alto, California, Varian employs approximately 7,000 people around the world. For more information, visit http://www.varian.com and follow @VarianMedSys on Twitter.

Investor Relations Contact

J. Michael Bruff

Senior Vice President, Investor Relations

+1 (650) 424-5163

[email protected]

Press Contact

Mark Plungy

Director, Public Relations

+1 (650) 424-5630

[email protected]

SOURCE Varian

Related Links

http://www.varian.com

Tehran, Dec 3 : Iran will continue to develop and test missiles in line with its deterrence policy despite adversarial positions taken on this issue by the US officials, a spokesman of the Iranian Armed Forces said here on Sunday.

"Missile tests and the overall defensive capability of the Islamic republic are for defence purposes and in line with our country's deterrence policy," Abolfazl Shekarchi said, Xinhua news agency reported.

"We will continue to both test and develop missiles," he said, adding that "this issue is outside the framework of any negotiations and is part of our national security."

"We will not ask for any country's permission in this regard," he stressed.

Iran has assured regional countries that the boost of missiles power of the Islamic republic does not hurt the interests of other countries, Shekarchi said.

"Such measures are only in line with boosting the country's deterrent and defence power," he added.

Shekarchi made the remarks in reaction to an earlier remarks by the US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, that Iran's ballistic missile tests violated the UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2231.

Pompeo said on Saturday that "the Iranian regime has just test-fired a medium range ballistic missile that's capable of carrying multiple warheads. This test violates UNSCR 2231."

"We condemn these activities and call upon Iran to cease immediately all activities relating to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons," he said.

In reaction, Iran's Foreign Ministry on Sunday dismissed as "ridiculous" the charges by Pompeo.

"Iran's missile program has a defensive nature and is designed based on the country's needs," Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman, Bahram Qasemi, was quoted as saying by the ministry's website.

"No resolution at the UN Security Council has banned Iran's missile program or missile tests," Qasemi said.

The Iranian spokesman said that the remarks by Pompeo is "ridiculous since the US refers to a resolution which not only has it violated by unilateral and illegal withdrawal, but by encouraging others to violate it, or even threatening them to punish" in case they remain committed to it.

UNSCR 2231 has endorsed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), or the 2015 deal on nuclear program of Iran.

The US President Donald Trump pulled Washington out of it in May and reimposed sanctions on Tehran which had been removed under the deal.

Besides, Iran's Defence Minister, Amir Hatami, said on Sunday that the Islamic republic has turned into one of the world's missile powers despite tolerating severe western sanctions over the past 40 years.

"Today, Iran is among the world's top powers in building missiles, radars, armoured vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)," Hatami told official IRNA news agency.

"Iran has managed to attain a very desirable and acceptable performance in the field of defensive products and the (Iranian) Defence Ministry has become self-sufficient in defence industry despite tough sanctions by the arrogant powers in the past 40 years," he said.Washington, Dec 3 : Slain journalist Jamal Khashoggi, in over 400 WhatsApp messages that he sent to a fellow Saudi exile before he was murdered in October, described Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman as a "beast" and a "pac-man" who would devour all in his path, even his supporters, a media report said.

Khashoggi had sent the texts to Montreal-based activist Omar Abdulaziz, the CNN report said on Monday.

The messages shared by Abdulaziz, which include voice recordings, photos and videos, paint a picture of a man deeply troubled by what he regarded as the petulance of the Crown Prince.

"The more victims he eats, the more he wants," says Khashoggi in one message sent in May, just after a group of Saudi activists had been rounded up.

"I will not be surprised if the oppression will reach even those who are cheering him on."

In almost daily exchanges between October 2017 and August 2018, Khashoggi and Abdulaziz conceived plans to form an electronic army to engage young Saudis back home and debunk state propaganda on social media, leveraging Khashoggi's establishment profile and the 27-year-old Abdulaziz's 340,000-strong Twitter following.

"(Jamal]) believed that MBS (the Crown Prince) is the issue, is the problem and he said this kid should be stopped," Abdulaziz said in an interview with CNN on Sunday.

But in August, when he believed their conversations may have been intercepted by Saudi authorities, a sense of foreboding descends over Khashoggi.

"God help us," he wrote.

Two months later, he was dead.

Abdulaziz on Sunday launched a lawsuit against an Israeli company that invented the software he believes was used to hack his phone.

"The hacking of my phone played a major role in what happened to Jamal, I am really sorry to say," Abdelaziz told CNN. "The guilt is killing me."

Abdulaziz began speaking out against the Saudi regime as a college student in Canada. His pointed criticisms of government policies drew the attention of the Saudi state, which cancelled his university scholarship.

Canada granted him asylum in 2014 and made him a permanent resident three years later.

Abdulaziz first spoke publicly about his contact with Khashoggi last month after researchers at the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab reported his phone had been hacked by military-grade spyware.Gurugram, Dec 3 : A 47-year-old businessman on Monday jumped to his death from the ninth floor of his flat in an upscale society here in Haryana, police said. No suicide note was found.

The victim was identified as Naresh Hasija, who lived in the same flat of Park View Apartments here with his family. He allegedly jumped off the floor around 3 a.m.

A case was registered at the Sector 50 police station.

"Hasija, his wife and children watched a movie on television till late on Sunday. His elder son was studying till 2 a.m. on Monday. The reason behind this extreme step is not clear immediately," police officer Baljeet told IANS.

The family hails from Sonipat.Chennai, Dec 3 : Actress Taapsee Pannu has concluded shooting for her upcoming Tamil-Telugu bilingual film titled "Game Over" here.

Taapsee on Monday morning shared a string of photographs with the film's cast and crew. She captioned it: "A long tiring but enriching experience of shooting this gem of a script comes to an end. Taking back some beautiful memories be it the wheelchair and fracture I never had, to getting the whole unit addicted to Ludo."

The 31-year-old actress says "Game Over" will have a lasting impact on all.

The film is directed by Ashwin Saravanan, who has previously worked with actor Nayanthara in Maya and also directed "IravaaKaalam" starring SJ Suryah and Wamiqa Gabbi.

Taapsee, who was last seen on screen in "Manmarziyaan", has two more Bollywood films in her kitty -- "Tadka" and "Badla".San Francisco, Dec 3 : Even as engagement of technology companies in military projects continues to raise eyebrows, Microsoft President Brad Smith has said that the software giant is willing to "provide the US military with access to all the technology" it creates.

Taking part in a panel discussion at the Reagan National Defense Forum at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California on Saturday, Smith acknowledged that "there is some angst" in some workforces, including Microsoft's, about tech companies' involvement in military contracts, the Los Angeles Times reported.

In June, thousands of Google employees raised objections to a contract that allowed the military to use the company's Artificial Intelligence tools to analyse drone footage. Google then decided not to renew the contract.

Smith said Microsoft was open to hearing the concerns of the company's workers.

This is not the first time Microsoft made its position clear on issues related to engagement with the US military.

In late October Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Smith addressed this issue in a conversation with the employees at the company's monthly Q&A session.

"We believe in the strong defence of the United States and we want the people who defend it to have access to the nation's best technology, including from Microsoft," Smith said.

"We don't ask or expect everyone who works at Microsoft to support every position the company takes. We also respect the fact that some employees work in, or may be citizens of, other countries, and they may not want to work on certain projects.

"As is always the case, if our employees want to work on a different project or team - for whatever reason - we want them to know we support talent mobility," he added.

Microsoft has worked with the US Department of Defense (DOD) on a longstanding and reliable basis for four decades.

"You'll find Microsoft technology throughout the American military, helping power its front office, field operations, bases, ships, aircraft and training facilities. We are proud of this relationship, as we are of the many military veterans we employ," the Microsoft President wrote in a blog post.

Recently Microsoft bid on DOD's Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure cloud project -- or "JEDI" -- which will re-engineer the Defense Department's end-to-end IT infrastructure, from the Pentagon to field-level support of the country's servicemen and women.Los Angeles, Dec 3 : Rocker and activist Bono has described his friendship with former US President George W. Bush as "comedic".

They have worked together to fight the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa.

The U2 frontman, known for his liberal views, famously paid a visit to the White House in 2002 to try and convince the Republican leader to join the global push for action, leading Bush to launch the groundbreaking programme PEPFAR (President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) in 2003, reports aceshowbiz.com.

The initiative has been credited with saving more than 16 million lives to date, and against all odds, Bono and Bush have formed a close bond.

Bono sat down with the Texan politician's daughter, TV co-host Jenna Bush Hager, to reminisce about their tense first meeting 16 years ago.

"He didn't wanna see me, which is fair enough, I mean, different political views and whatever," the Irish musician shared on breakfast show "Today".

"I was the guy who had to come... and get him to look up from his big oak table in the Oval Office to let his values tell him what to do. I don't know if it's a Texas thing, but your father felt the weight of responsibility presiding over this, the greatest health crisis in 600 years, (to take action)."

Bono has never shied away from heaping praise on Bush for establishing PEPFAR, declaring the period "one of the most heroic chapters in the history of America," and he wants world leaders and activists today to learn from their odd partnership.

"I think you got to cut through the shenanigans of political cartooning and see that some people can have different views and can still be principled people...," he said.

"I hope Americans this World AIDS Day remember what you can achieve when you work with people you don't agree with."

The pair has remained in touch over the years, and Bono is particularly enamoured by Bush's sense of humour.

"I have this kind of comedic relationship with your father," he smiled as he remembered one particular funny exchange, reported aceshowbiz.com.

"We were riding in a motorcade. People were waving from the side of the road, and I said to him, 'Oh, pretty popular. Didn't think you were this popular, Mr. President!' He said, 'When I first came here, they used to wave at me with one finger!'"

"I've become very fond of him, and it's funny because underneath his armour, there's passion, compassion; he has it."Patna, Dec 3 : A 25-year-old man was beaten and burnt to death in Bihar's Sitamarhi district for eloping with the daughter-in-law of an influential man of the area, marrying her and then returning to the same village to live together, police said on Monday.

Sharavan Mahto was dragged out from his house in Oralhiya village by a group of men on Sunday.

"He was first beaten up badly. When he fell down unconscious, almost half dead, he was taken to a nearby field, doused with petrol and set ablaze," Sahiyara police station officer in-charge Sanjeev Kumar said.

The police said prima facie it appears to be a fallout of a love affair Mahto had with a married woman of the village.

A few months ago Mahto eloped with a married woman belonging to a well known household in the village. The couple returned after solemnising their marriage. They started living together, Kumar said.

It angered the woman's family. A case of kidnapping was also lodged against Mahto by the family members, who threatened him with dire consequences, the police said.

When Mahto's family informed the police about Sunday's attack, they reached the field and recovered his half burnt body and sent it for an autopsy.

According to Kumar, an FIR has been lodged against 14 accused named in the attack on the basis of statements given by Mahto's family. However, no arrest has been made yet.

There is tension in the village and additional forces have been deployed there.Ranchi, Dec 3 : Criminals early on Monday looted jewellery and assets worth more than Rs 1 crore and the idol of the goddess from a temple in Jamtara district in Jharkhand, police said.

Seven to eight young men broke into the Rani Sati temple on Dumka Road around 1 a.m. "They thrashed me, tied me up and dumped me near a pond nearby," said Pujari Balak, the priest, who was rescued by villagers and police.

While two criminals kept watch at the temple gate, the rest looted the idol and valuables, the priest said.

Angry devotes on Monday blocked the Jamatara-Dumka highway demanding the arrest of the criminals.If the president ends up going down, it is quite possible that he will take at least two of his adult children and a son-in-law down with him. That not only makes him a bad president, but it also makes him a despicable father.Jerusalem, Dec 3 : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that he will meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo later in the day in Brussels to discuss regional issues.

A statement issued by Netanyahu's Office said he will depart for Belgium later in the day, adding that the meeting was set last week, the Times of Israel reported.

The statement said that the Prime Minister and Pompeo will discuss "regional developments" and that Netanyahu will be accompanied by the head of Israel's intelligence agency Mossad, the head of the National Security Council and the Military Secretary.

The meeting comes a week after UN Ambassador Danny Danon told reporters that US President Donald Trump's administration officials had alerted Israel that they had finished structuring a peace plan and intend to present it early next year.

Danon said that Washington had discussed with Jerusalem the timing for unveiling the proposal.

Pompeo and Netanyahu last met during the US Secretary of State's visit to Israel in April.

During his meeting with Netanyahu that time, Pompeo referred to Trump's unpublished plan for Israeli-Palestinian peace, saying that Washington was committed to a lasting peace.

The Palestinians severed ties with the Trump administration after its decision to move the US Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and declare the city Israel's capital.

The US administration has cut more than $500 million in Palestinian aid since the start of the Palestinian boycott.Jhalawar (Rajasthan), Dec 3 : Days after he said that Congress President Rahul Gandhi was his "captain" and not the Punjab Chief Minister, Navjot Singh Sidhu on Monday described Captain Amarinder Singh a "fatherly figure" and said he will sort out the issue with him.

"You don't wash dirty linen in public. He (Amarinder Singh) is a fatherly figure. I love him. I respect him. I will sort it out myself," Sidhu told reporters when asked if he will apologize to Amarinder Singh.

The controversy erupted when Sidhu in Hyderabad called Congress President Raul Gandhi his "captain" and Amarinder an "Army Captain". His remarks came a day after he returned from Pakistan after attending the ground breaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor.

After Sidhu's remarks, many Punjab Ministers sought his dismissal from the Punjab government and asked him to apologize to the Chief Minister.Beijing, Dec 3 : China on Monday said it was glad to see good interaction between India and Pakistan on opening the Kartarpur corridor, allowing Indian Sikhs to visit the holy shrine in Kartarpur.

Beijing also said the stable ties between New Delhi and Islamabad meant a lot to world peace and hoped that both sides could solve their differences through dialogue.

"We are glad to see this good interaction between Pakistan and India. Both countries are important in South Asia and the stability of the relations means a lot to the world peace and development," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang told the media.

"We sincerely hope that these two countries can strengthen coordination and dialogue properly and address their difference and improve their relations for stability and peace," he added.

Last month, Pakistan agreed to India's long-pending demand to open the Kartarpur border to facilitate visa-free pilgrimage by Indian Sikhs to Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara, where Sikhism's founder Guru Nanak Dev spent the last 18 years of his life.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan performed the groundbreaking ceremony on November 28 to develop the Kartarpur corridor to link Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur in India with Kartarpur gurdwara in the presence of Indian Ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Hardeep Puri and Congress party leader Navjot Singh Sidhu.Gurugram, Dec 3 : In an attempt to showcase innovation and exchange of ideas to transform the focus of education on artificial intelligence (AI), Microsoft India is set to host the first "Education Days 2018" here.

The two-day event starting Tuesday in this Haryana city will bring together students, over 220 educators and Microsoft partners under one roof to showcase their work and innovation.

It would facilitate exchange of ideas to revamp the educational landscape through technology.

Interactive sessions are planned for Microsoft Innovative Educators; an Education Transformation Framework (ETF) workshop is designed for policy makers and education leaders to help education leadership and school principals transform education in their institutions.

It will also hold an educators' exhibition on innovation, where 120 teachers from across India will showcase innovative work executed in their schools focusing on AI, gamification, personalisation, localisation and collaboration.Lucknow, Dec 3 : A police inspector was killed in Bulandshahr district in Uttar Pradesh on Monday after violence broke out in the aftermath of an alleged case of cow slaughter, police said.

Senior police officials have rushed to the crime scene to contain the violence, which threatens peace in the entire region.

According to information here, members of several Hindu groups with an alleged cow carcass gathered on the Bulandshahr-Syana road and pelted stones at the police personnel.

The Hindu Yuva Vahini and Bajrang Dal activists also vandalized vehicles and attacked police officials. They torched several passing vehicles.

In the violence, Inspector Subodh Singh of Syana police station and four constables were injured. The profusely bleeding inspector was rushed to the Aurangabad community health centre (CHC) where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

District Magistrate Anuj Jha confirmed the death of the police officer.Los Angeles, Dec 3 : Actress Lili Reinhart, who plays Betty Cooper in "Riverdale", enjoys the fan support that she and the show gets, but says it can be "very intense" at times.

"Riverdale", which airs on Colors Infinity in India, has a strong fan base.

"The fan support is great, but it can be very intense. Sometimes, people get into verbal fights on Twitter and you just think 'Woah, guys...calm down. This is fiction. There's no need to argue'," Reinhart said in a statement to IANS.

"But on the flip side of that, there are no words to explain how it feels to see people so excited about our show. The support is immense. There's a weird moment of realisation when you remember people look up to you as Lili, not just as Betty. That's when I remind myself 'Oh, they are not just here for the show. They are here because they support us as human beings'. It's really touching," she added.

On what she thinks of fans' reaction to the musical episode in the show's season two, she said: "I feel like the reaction was 50/50. Some people really loved it, which is great. Some people were like 'Why is this a musical?' I can understand their questioning.

"It's funny because none of us had heard of 'Carrie: the Musical' before. None of us knew any of the songs - but we almost did 'Sweeney Todd' and we almost did 'Little Shop of Horrors'. If we did another musical episode, it could be anything. Who knows?"

She also spoke on the "darker side of Betty" in season three.

"I'll just say what ('Riverdale' executive producer) Roberto (Aguirre-Sacasa) said to me. He said that season one and season two were about Betty's inner darkness and season three is about the outer darkness," said Reinhart.

"I don't fully know what that means yet, but I think it has to do with the fact that all the darkness is out there now. Her dad is out there; the secrets are out there, so I don't really think you will see her battling with internal demons anymore. She's accepted it is what it is. She's got her friends, and now she's going to battle some more demons," she explained.Colombo, Dec 3 : The Court of Appeal in Sri Lanka on Monday issued an interim order restraining former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa and members of his purported government from functioning as the Prime Minister, Cabinet and deputy ministers.

The court gave its order on Writ of Quo Warranto filed by 122 MPs challenging the former President and his government's continuation in office, Colombo Telegraph reported.

The court also served notice on respondents and directed them to show by what authority they hold office. The case will be taken up on December 12 and 13.

Meanwhile, Rajapaksa called for a snap parliamentary election and said it was the only way the country could solve the ongoing political instability.

In a special statement released by his office, Rajapaksa invited all those who respected democracy to give a careful thought to holding a parliamentary election, as this would be the only way to end the present crisis, Xinhua news agency reported.

Sri Lanka has been embroiled in a political crisis since October 26 when President Maithripala Sirisena sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with Rajapaksa.

Rajapaksa's party, the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, organized a mass activity in Colombo on Monday afternoon with hundreds of people calling for a snap parliamentary poll.Katowice (Poland), Dec 3 : UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday said the world was in deep trouble and not doing enough or moving fast enough to prevent irreversible and catastrophic climate disruption.

"Climate change is running faster than we are, and we must catch up sooner rather than later before it is too late," he said in his remarks at the official opening of the two-week long UN climate negotiations, known as COP24, that saw governments and delegates from nearly 200 countries in this Polish city.

"We are in trouble. We are in deep trouble with the climate change. For many, people, regions, and even countries, this is already a matter of life and death.

"This meeting is the most important gathering on climate change since the Paris Agreement was signed (in 2015)," he said.

He was categorically clear in saying "Our job here in Katowice is to finalise the Paris Agreement Work Programme -- the rule book for implementation. I remind all parties that this is a deadline you set for yourselves."

The rule book will govern national pledges to keep the rise in global temperature to under 1.5 degrees Celsius, and ensuring adequate finances to developing nations.

Climate experts told IANS that the priority outcome at the 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP24) will be the finalisation of the 'Paris rule book', a Bible for transparent implementation of the 2015 Paris Agreement -- the first global treaty to reduce emissions by all rich and poor nations.

The COP24 negotiations with the participation of more than 20,000 people from nearly 200 countries are going to be held in the backdrop of grim news on climate change from three UN environment bodies.

This meeting is the most important gathering on climate change since the Paris Agreement was signed in 2015.

"It is hard to overstate the urgency of our situation. Even as we witness devastating climate impacts causing havoc across the world, we are still not doing enough, nor moving fast enough, to prevent irreversible and catastrophic climate disruption," Guterres said.

"Nor are we doing enough to capitalize on the enormous social, economic and environmental opportunities of climate action.

"And so, I want to deliver four simple messages."

First: Science demands a significantly more ambitious response, he said.

Second: The Paris Agreement provides the framework for action, so "we must operationalise it".

Third: "We have a collective responsibility to invest in averting global climate chaos, to consolidate the financial commitments made in Paris and to assist the most vulnerable communities and nations."

And fourth: Climate action offers a compelling path to transform our world for the better.

"Let me turn first to science," he said.

According to the World Meteorological Organization, the 20 warmest years on record have been in the past 22 years, with the top four in the past four years.

The concentration of carbon dioxide is the highest it has been in three million years.

Emissions are now growing again.

The recent special report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) finds that warming could reach 1.5 degrees as soon as 2030, with devastating impacts.

"The latest UN Environment Programme Emissions Gap Report tells us that the current Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement will lead to global warming of about three degrees by the end of the century," the Secretary-General said.

He said emissions must decline by 45 per cent from 2010 levels by 2030 and be net zero by 2050.

Renewable energy will need to supply half to two-thirds of the world's primary energy by 2050 with a corresponding reduction in fossil fuels.

"We need to embrace low-carbon, climate-resilient sustainable development."

Ensuring adequate finances to developing nations for sustainable low-emissions, he said: "Some 75 per cent of the infrastructure needed by 2050 still remains to be built."

"Governments and investors need to bet on the green economy, not the grey. That means embracing carbon pricing, eliminating harmful fossil fuel subsidies and investing in clean technologies.

"We also have a collective responsibility to assist the most vulnerable communities and countries -- such as small island nations and the least developed countries -- by supporting adaptation and resilience.

"Making clear progress to mobilise the pledged $100 billion a year will provide a much-needed positive political signal," the UN Secretary General said.

"I have appointed the President of France and the Prime Minister of Jamaica to lead the mobilisation of the international community, both public and private, to reach that target in the context of preparation of the Climate Summit I have convened in September of next year."

"I also urge member states to swiftly implement the replenishment of the Green Climate Fund. It is an investment in a safer, less costly future," he added.

Poland is hosting a COP for the third time. The two previous COPs were held in Pozna (2008) and in Warsaw (2013). Poland also presided over a COP in Bonn in 1999.

The Paris Agreement has been ratified by 184 parties, including India, and entered into force in November 2016.

The commitments contained in it include the annual $100 billion goal from donor nations for lower-income countries and develop national climate plans by 2020, including their self-determined goals and targets.New Delhi, Dec 3 : As the advent of e-commerce has altered consumer behaviour in terms of buying furniture online, overseas shipping of heavy furniture plays a key role in the success of online firms. Experts suggest some tips which can help deliver a seamless experience.

Raghunandan Saraf, Founder and CEO, Saraf Furniture, gave the following tips:

Rely on experienced packaging solutions and carriers: As experienced packers offer customised solutions that help the goods to stay safe in transit, it is best to choose them for shipping your furniture as it will benefit from proper storage techniques, including securing furniture in a carrier to avoid movement. Skilled carriers also keep furniture safe in shipping containers through block-and-brace tactics that involve keeping the packages safe and tight with similar goods.

Offer free and visible shipping process: A lot of online customers overseas prefer free shipping on their furniture purchases. So it will be a smart move to create a certain pricing structure that is inclusive of the shipping charges. This will enable you to offer your customers the desired free-shipping service of the products. Make sure that the experienced carrier solutions provider partnering with you offers tracking services of the packages for both you and your customer. This will also give you the exact idea of the whereabouts of your furniture at any point in the supply chain.

Measure and check the weight of your furniture package: Considering it's an overseas shipping, you need your packages to reach its destination safe and secure with no extra charges as it will end up being a burden for the customers. Hence, make sure that your large or bulky furniture shipment weighs in line with the carrier's limits. The size and weight measurements will also enable you to determine the shipping costs prior to accepting the order.

Ensure faster shipping: As same day delivery is becoming the most favoured norm in Indian e-commerce considering the customers' expectations of fast deliveries, give prior attention to faster shipping process orders through multiple options. This will enable you to stay competitive amid rising competition. There is still a lot of hesitation amongst customers opting for international shipping as it is usually slow. By offering faster shipping you can get a clear competitive edge.

Stay in touch with your customer for efficient delivery: While you might be offering visibility in the entire shipping procedure to your customers through package tracking options, you can improve the customer experience further through the additional service of staying in touch with them via calls, messages or emails. Such initiatives can help the customers in scheduling their package delivery and feeling more reassured about their entire purchase process.

Offer easy returns: In the absence of a proper and easy return policy, customers may even resist the urge of buying your fabulously designed pieces. So, make sure your return policy is free and easy and that it includes clear refunds and exchange processes.

-Lucknow, Dec 3 : The Uttar Pradesh cabinet on Monday approved a proposal which identified 5,125 hectares of land for the ambitious Defence Corridor announced for the Bundelkhand region by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February this year, an official said.

The land has been earmarked in Aligarh, Azamgarh, Jalaun, Jhansi, Kanpur and Chitrakoot districts of the state.

The cabinet clearance now means that the state government would purchase the identified land and hand it over to the companies that have shown interest in building the corridor.

The cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, also okayed a proposal for empanelment of the Indian Institute of Kanpur (IIT-K) and the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) for technical support in the project.

The cabinet also gave a green signal to the allocation of Rs 1,070.65 lakh for running cruise boats in Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Modi.

Officials also said that a Rs 1,400-crore investment has been made for the under-construction Jawahar thermal power plant and the Obra plant. While the former will be constructed by the Power Grid Corporation of India, the Obra one would be built by the Adani group.

Among the 16 proposals cleared by the cabinet, one includes giving performance incentive to the 3.75 lakh "Aanganwadi" workers in the state. Other than this, the state cabinet has also ratified a proposal of Rs 10 lakh financial compensation for the cleaning staff who die while cleaning sewers in the state.I would like to see the video of how my son got killed, she said. I mean, if he hit somebody (it could be justifiable). If he didnt, why did they shoot him? I didnt mind if they caught him and arrested him. It was wrong, what he was doing. But they should not kill him like that.Colombo, Dec 3 : A Sri Lankan court on Monday issued an interim order restraining former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa and members of his purported government from functioning as the Prime Minister, Cabinet and deputy ministers till the case is heard on December 12.

The Court of Appeal gave its order after 122 MPs filed a petition challenging the former President and his government's continuation in office, Colombo Telegraph reported.

"The court considered the arguments of both sides and says that irreversible damage could be caused if persons not entitled to do so sit as Prime Minister and the Cabinet of ministers," lawyers arguing the case said.

The court also issued notices to the 49 government ministers and Rajapaksa to appear before the court on December 12 for the hearing.

Sri Lanka has been embroiled in a political crisis since October 26 when President Maithripala Sirisena sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with Rajapaksa.

Since his appointment, Rajapaksa and his government faced two no-confidence motions.

Sirisena had rejected the results of the two votes, saying they were not conducted in a legal manner and has requested Parliament to call for a vote again on December 5.

Rajapaksa, meanwhile, called for a snap parliamentary election and said it was the only way to solve the ongoing political instability.

In a special statement released by his office, Rajapaksa invited all those who respected democracy to give a careful thought to holding a parliamentary election, as this would be the only way to end the present crisis, Xinhua news agency reported.

Rajapaksa's party, the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, organized a mass activity in Colombo on Monday afternoon with hundreds of people calling for a snap parliamentary poll.

The former President and his party have boycotted Parliament sessions since November, saying that Speaker Karu Jayasuriya was acting in favour of Wickremesinghe and his party.

They also said they would continue to boycott sessions until they were recognized as the government.Dhaka, Dec 3 : An anti-terrorism tribunal in Bangladesh on Monday began the formal trial in the Holey Artisan cafe attack in Dhaka in 2016 that killed 22 people, including foreign nationals.

On July 23, the police had pressed charges against eight members of the jihadist group Jamaatul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) for their role in the attack, although formal charges were framed by the tribunal on November 26, which had also set December 3 for recording statements of witnesses, prosecutor Jahangir Alam told Efe news.

"On the first day, the complainant of the case, a sub-inspector of Gulshan police, gave his statement and defence lawyers interrogated him. The interrogation will continue tomorrow," he said.

Among the eight accused, six are in jail and two remain on the run.

All the six accused had pleaded not guilty when Judge Mujibur Rahman had read out the charges against them on November 26, said the prosecutor.

On July 1, 2016, five armed men had laid siege to the Holey Artisan Bakery for 12 hours, taking dozens of hostages and killing 22, including nine Italians and seven Japanese nationals.

The Islamic State had claimed responsibility for the attack although the Bangladesh government had maintained the attack was masterminded by the JMB.

Between 2013 and 2016, Bangladesh had witnessed a wave of Islamist attacks against religious minorities, foreigners, gay activists, intellectuals and bloggers critical of fundamentalism.New Delhi, Dec 3 : The Congress on Monday accused the Modi government of "interfering in the judiciary" and demanded an independent separate parliamentary and judicial probes.

Senior Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi said: "The grave apprehensions of the Congress and the country regarding interference with the highest levels of the judiciary have been proved correct."

Referring to the statement of retired judge Kurian Jospeh, the Congress leader said he had in clearly talked about arbitrary bench selection, external influences by implication, remote control and political biases injected into the system by the government.

His remarks came after Joseph on Sunday in an interview to the Times of India said that four judges of the top court suspected that then Chief Justice Dipak Misra was being "controlled" from the outside.

Justice Joseph, who retired on November 29, said he and the three other senior-most Supreme Court judges felt that Justice Misra was allocating cases to judges with a political bias.

Hitting out at the BJP-led government, Singhvi said: "The accountability owed by this government, which it owes as political executive to the nation, we demand an immediate response from the Prime Minister. We further condemn this unconstitutional, invasive and illegal effort by the government."

The Congress leader said the Modi government had become known for its "dirty tricks department".

"Imagine the implications of the categorical statement of Justice Joseph. Which were those cases where these blatant and despicable initiatives were taken by the government? Who took these initiatives, how many times it was done?

"Our attempts to rein in, to check, to warn against such misadventures has now been proved correct," he said.

Singhvi added: "It establishes the way the government and the ruling party mind works. It proves their complete lack of commitment to the nation and the four foundation pillars and institutions of the nation...

"We therefore need separate and distinct parliamentary inquiry and independent separate and distinct judicial inquiry... to bring all these nefarious activities before the nation."Jaipur, Dec 3 : Amid rage and rancour over Rajasthan polls, due December 7, two seats -- Tonk to the east and Jhalrapatan in the south -- out of the total 200 represent a unique battle: the 'outsiders' have locked horns.

In Tonk -- the erstwhile city of nawabs -- Congress' state chief Sachin Pilot takes on BJP's Yunus Khan. And both come from outside the constituency. Pilot is from neighbouring Ajmer while Khan belongs to Deedwana (Nagaur). Also, the Congress has fielded a Hindu candidate after 46 years in the town, whereas BJP has brought a Muslim candidate after 38 years. The small town has no industries, rail route or airport.

In Jhalrapatan, Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje is contesting for a fourth consecutive time, winning it since 2003. And Congress has fielded rebel BJP stalwart Jaswant Singh's son Manvendra Singh against her.

Soon after Congress decided to field Pilot from Tonk, the BJP in its last-minute decision, removed its candidate Ajeet Singh, an incumbent legislator from Tonk, and declared Khan as its official candidate.

Pilot speaking to IANS confirmed that Congress during previous elections had performed poorly in eastern Rajasthan. "As Tonk lies between Dausa and Ajmer, the party wanted to have an anchor presence there so that nearby seats can get a mileage. So, I was asked to contest from here," said Pilot.

Khan, too, says he was brought to Tonk following party's directions. "People are looking for development and that is what our party promises," he said.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, convenor of the state BJP election management committee, says Khan is the party's trump card. Khan and his supporters in Deedwana were disappointed when the first two party lists didn't carry his name. The final list declared him the contender for the seat, and he accepted the offer as a party loyalist.

Around 250km from Tonk, in Jhalrapatan, Singh is confident that Jhalawar would be free from Raje's rule. "I am here to fight and win," he says, adding that this is a "battle against vindictiveness and humiliation collected over the years."

Singh, a sitting MLA from Sheo (Barmer), recently left the BJP to join the Congress.

Raje calls him a parachute candidate, but quick comes Singh's repartee: he was a paratrooper in the Army, not in politics.

A senior BJP leader speaking to IANS credits Pilot for Congress' masterstroke on Singh. "He has sent our 'bhaisahab' (Manvendra Singh) to Jhalrapatan against Raje. None of us ever thought of this," he said.

"When they played their masterstroke, we too came out with our trump card (Yunus Khan)," quipped the BJP leader.

Pilot says Jhalrapatan has always had interesting elections. "In 2003, my mother Rama Pilot contested from the seat against Raje, but lost. I learnt a lot from that. Basically, elections are elections: if they (BJP) leave nothing to chance, we too are here to win," he says with a smile.

(Archana Sharma can be contacted at arachana.g@gmail.com)Abuja, Dec 3 : Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has denied rumours about his death and being replaced by a Sudanese impostor.

"It's the real me, I assure you. I will soon celebrate my 76th birthday and I will still go strong," Buhari told Nigerians in a town hall session in Poland on Sunday, where he was attending a conference, when asked about the lookalike named Jubril.

Buhari, who is running for re-election in February, has been beset by ill health since taking office in 2015.

He was on "medical leave" in the UK for a few months in 2017. However, he did not reveal what he was suffering from, the BBC reported.

According to one theory that was widely circulated on social media, he was replaced by his lookalike. However, no evidence was presented.

"A lot of people hoped that I died during my ill health. Some even reached out to the Vice President to consider them to be his deputy because they assumed I was dead. That embarrassed him a lot and of course, he visited me when I was in London convalescing,'' he said, adding that those who spread the rumour were "ignorant and irreligious".

The presidency circulated Buhari's comments in an emailed statement titled "It's Real Me, President Buhari Responds to Cloning Allegation".

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, 72, has emerged as Buhari's main challenger in next year's election.

The opposition is expected to make the President's health a major campaign issue, but he insists he is healthy and fit to serve a second term.New Delhi, Dec 3 : The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Monday blamed the BJP for the deletion of the names of about 30 lakh "anti-BJP voters" from the electoral rolls in Delhi, saying the party was scared of losing its seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi in 2019.

"Upon analyzing the deleted voters' list, we found that names of people from three communities - Baniya, Muslim and Purvanchalis - dominated the list of 30 lakh deleted voters of Delhi," AAP senior leader Atishi told the media here.

This, she said, was a clear indicator that the "Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) planned the whole conspiracy" to delete those voters who were unhappy with its governance and were most likely to vote against it in 2019.

"After the introduction of GST and demonetization, we have seen that the trading communities are upset with the BJP and Purvanchalis are being harassed and beaten up on the streets," the AAP's East Delhi Lok Sabha in-charge said.

Atishi said that in East Delhi alone, "375,000 voters have been deleted".

She alleged that the Election Commission was working at the behest of the BJP and had uploaded an incomplete list containing the list of deleted voters. "The list was on the website until a few days back but now it has been removed."

She said the Election Commission's website was not accepting forms for reapplication to the voters' list in Delhi for the last three days.

"When you open the website, it is clearly written that the form submission for NCT of Delhi is not available. This raises a big question on the Election Commission," Atishi said.

Giving more data on the number of deleted voters from each community, she said that from Jangpura in south Delhi alone 27,443 voters have been deleted from the list. "Of this, 5,300 are Baniyas, 4,900 Muslims and 8,500 are Purvanchalis."

In Okhla, she said 46,700 voters were deleted -- 30,000 Muslims, 11,000 Purvanchalis and 5,700 Baniyas.

"East Delhi's Kondli has seen the maximum number of voter deletion - 61,000 - and the sole reason for this may be is that a lot of Purvanchalis live here," Atishi said.New Delhi, Dec 3 : The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) will install a statue of Swami Vivekananda in its campus for his "singular" contribution to "India's intellectual and philosophical heritage," the university announced on Monday.

The decision to install the statue was taken at the Executive Council's 268th meeting held on June 30 last year.

"Jawaharlal Nehru University will be celebrating the singular contribution of Swami Vivekananda to India's intellectual and philosophical heritage by installing a statue of this great son of India," the varsity Registrar Pramod Kumar said in his note.

The statue has been funded by one of university's former student "who is voluntarily managing all the expenses involved in making and installation of the status" it read.

University Finance Officer Heeraman Tiwari told IANS that the university is not spending any money on the statue and that it will installed near the administrative block.Thiruvananthapuram, December 03 : Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday hit back at opposition leader Ramesh Chennithalas sharp critique of the proposed women wall.

Launching a sharp attack on Chennithala, the chief minister termed as anti-women the opposition leaders alleged comment that they would break the women wall.

Chennithala said that the women wall will be razed. It is anti-women to say the women wall will be brought down when the wall is being formed to uphold values. A patriarchal mindset is hidden behind this sentiment. Women in the state will definitely respond to this, Mr. Vijayan said.

The chief minister also clarified that the idea for a women wall was not mooted by the LDF government. A decision on the women wall was taken at the meeting of organisations sharing the legacy of renaissance based on the sentiments expressed at the meeting, he added.

Responding to Chennithalas criticism of the LDF convening a meeting of social organisations, Mr. Vijayan alleged that the opposition leader insulted organisations boasting the legacy of renaissance by calling them caste organisations.

The congress is disowning the legacy of renaissance, the chief minister charged, adding that stands of the congress and the RSS converged on this issue.

Defending the decision to organise the meeting of community-based organisations, Pinarayi Vijayan said that the meeting was aimed at upholding the position that there should not be discrimination over fundamental rights of individuals.

The meeting christened renaissance meeting was held in the backdrop of the agitation by right-wing outfits against the supreme court verdict lifting curbs on entry of women of child-bearing age into the Sabarimala temple.

The coming together of difference community-based organisations was purportedly aimed at countering the sangh parivar attempts to reap political dividends by engineering communal disharmony in the state through the Sabarimala issue.

Ramesh Chennithala had sharply criticised the meeting of community-based groups held at the aegis of the ruling LDF dispensation the other day, saying that the government paved the way for communal divide in the state through the meeting, which according to him was boycotted by most of the social organisations.

He had termed the women wall, proposed to be a human chain of only women from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram, a sugar-coated poison, charging that it would lead to communal polarisation.New Delhi, Dec 3 : Tamil Nadu on Monday urged the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) to withdraw the nod given to Karnataka for preparing a detailed project report (DPR) on Mekedatu reservoir across the Cauvery river.

Addressing reporters after a meeting of the nine-member CWMA, S.K. Prabakar, Principal Secretary to Tamil Nadu government hoped that the Authority will immediately act to direct the Central Water Commission (CWC) to withdraw this permission.

"Permission to grant DPR without consulting the upper and lower state is not correct. We have made this point and urged them to withdraw the permission of preparing the DPR," he said.

The Tamil Nadu government also said that CWC should be advised not to proceed in "haste" without taking the consent of lower and upper states especially in such matter which affect livelihood of millions of farmers in the state.

CWC's approval for the DPR was discussed here at a meeting of the Authority.

The Cauvery Neeravari Nigam Ltd, Karnataka, plans to prepare the DPR for Mekedatu Balancing Reservoir-cum-Drinking Water Project.

On July 2, CWMA Chairman S. Masood Husain had directed Karnataka to release the quantum of water as per the tribunal award for July after adjusting the surplus in the month of June to Tamil Nadu. The tribunal had allotted 34 tmcft and the excess water released in June was more than 3 tmcft.

In the nine-member CWMA chaired by CWC Chairman, Karnataka is represented by its Principal Secretary, Water Resources, Rakesh Singh and Tamil Nadu government by Principal Secretary, Public Works Department, S.K. Prabakar. Kerala Water Resources Secretary Tinku Biswal and Puducherry Development Commissioner-cum-PWD Secretary A. Anbarasu were also present.Katowice (Poland), Dec 3 : Indian Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan on Monday said the high level of greenhouse gas emission was a major concern and reaffirmed that India would play a "positive, constructive and balanced role" in the UN climate summit.

"Our focus is on shifting to renewables," Vardhan told reporters on the sidelines of the two-week-long UN climate negotiations, known as COP24, that saw governments and delegates from nearly 200 countries in this Polish city.

The talks officially began on Monday with the opening address of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Responding to a question on clean coal, the minister said: "We have an ambitious target of 175GW. We use super critical technology which has comparatively less emissions.

"We have also announced stringent emission standards and we are retrofitting existing coal plants with the latest technology. The ones that can't be upgraded are being shutdown. Close to 52GW of old plants have been shutdown till date," Vardhan said.

He added that India wanted to see the UN climate summit as a success.

Ahead of India's second Biennial update report, which was earlier scheduled to be released by Vardhan at the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change or COP24 on Monday, a projection on India's progress by US-based The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) said India was "on track to achieve the majority of its Paris agreement goals".

The Paris agreement urged each country outline, update and communicate their post-2020 climate actions, known as nationally determined contributions (NDCs), reflecting the country's ambition for reducing emissions, taking into account its domestic circumstances and capabilities.

India's progress on two of its three Paris agreement commitments were to achieve 40 per cent of electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel by 2030 and to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 33-35 per cent by 2030 from the 2005 level.

IEEFA found that India was likely to achieve these two goals 10 years before the 2030 deadline.

For the first goal, IEEFA predicted that installed non-fossil fuel capacity in India will exceed 40 per cent by the end of 2019.

And at the current rate of two per cent reduction per year in emission intensity of its GDP, India is likely to achieve 33-35 per cent of emission intensity reduction targets a decade ahead of target.

To a question on the latest assessment on NDCs, Vardhan said: "We are much ahead on delivering our NDCs. We have already achieved 21 per cent emission intensity reduction, including emissions from agriculture, whereas our NDCs exclude agricultural emissions from its scope."

"We believe we will achieve these goals much before 2022," he said.

"We have set a target but are not waiting for the deadline... Our aim is to achieve targets fixed by the Prime Minister at the earliest. We are conscious of the targets but are even more concerned to achieve it ahead of time."

On the forest cover, Vardhan admitted India was slow.

"But you must have seen that the forest cover increased by about one per cent. New strategy has been formulated for afforestation and we will achieve this goal as well."

Questioning developed countries' commitments, he said: "Our sincerity should not be treated as weakness. All the pre-2020 and other commitments made by the developed countries need to be fulfilled."

He said India wanted to see COP24 to be successful and added that New Delhi would play a "positive, constructive and balanced role" in the summit.

Earlier, Vardhan inaugurated an India pavilion along with the Indian delegation. It will have around 20 sessions, covering issues related to sectors important for climate change adaptation and mitigation.

"One World One Sun One Grid," highlighted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during first assembly of International Solar Alliance on October 2, is the theme of India pavilion.Johnson did not say why the man attacked the three. He said its unclear if the victims knew the attacker or if the victims knew each other. He said the suspect lived in Chicago around 2012 or 2013 before moving elsewhere, but hes been back in town for about three or four months.Bhubaneswar, Dec 3 : The Odisha government on Monday signed a loan agreement of $85 million with Asian Development Bank (ADB) to train 1.5 lakh youths in the state, officials said.

With this assistance, youths in the age group of 15-34 years will be given skill development training to make them competent to get better work and higher paying jobs, a government statement said.

The total cost of the project is $193 million with the Odisha government contributing $108 million, it added.

In addition, the Japanese government will provide technical aid for capacity building through the Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction.

The ADB would also provide $2 million as technical assistance for capacity building component of the project.

In the project, the Odisha Skill Development Authority and ITE Education Services, Singapore will cooperate in the establishment and operation of World Skills Centre (WSC) in Bhubaneswar.

Training programmes at WSC have been designed to cater to the requirement of the industry through experiential learning.

The WSC would also act as a hub for all the Spoke ITIs to train the youths, advising on the curriculum development and developing the infrastructure of the ITIs.

The project aims to significantly reduce unemployment and under-employment rates in Odisha by 2025, it said.Patna, Dec 3 : Poor knowledge of English language of a Bihar Police man almost landed a youth from Jehanabad district in the state behind bars when policeman mistook a family court order for inquiry of asset as an "arrest warrant" and arrested him.

The incident, reported from the Makhdumpur Police Station of the district, has come as a big embarrassment for top police officials in Bihar. The man was released the next morning as soon as the police officials realised their mistake.

Neeraj Kumar, a resident of Makhdumpur Dih, said he was arrested on November 25 from his shop, "thanks to the poor knowledge of local police officials, who can't even differentiate between a normal court order and an arrest warrant".

"I made repeated pleas to the policemen that there wasn't any arrest warrant against me. My lawyer also talked to the police, but they were not ready to listen to anything. I was forced to spend a night in the lockup and produced in the court next day in handcuffs."

Neeraj said when the judge of the court came to know about it after reading the family court order, he slammed the police officials and ordered to released him immediately.

Jahanabad Superintendent of Police Pankaj Kumar said the family court had sent an order to inquire about the assets of Neeraj, but the local police officials mistook it for as arrest warrant.

"A probe is underway into how Neeraj was arrested and action will be taken against those found guilty because this incident has put a question mark on the functioning of police," said SP Kumar.

A senior IPS officer of the rank of IG admitted that poor English is a big problem among lower rung police officials.New Delhi, Dec 3 : Expenditure Secretary Ajay Narayan Jha was on Monday appointed the new Finance Secretary, a government order said.

Jha, a 1982-batch IAS officer of Manipur Tripura cadre, succeeds Hasmukh Adhia who retired on November 30. The seniormost secretary in the Finance Ministry is normally designated as the Finance Secretary.

His appointment was cleared by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.Hyderabad, Dec 3 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said attempts to provide reservation to minorities amounted to betrayal of the nation and were an insult to framers of the Indian Constitution.

Addressing an election rally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), he called for efforts to defeat any such move in order to protect the country's unity.

Hitting out at the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) government for its move to increase reservation for minorities to 12 per cent, Modi said he was surprised how the power-hungry were pushing for religion-based quota for the sake of remaining power.

Pointing out that the issue of religion-based reservation was discussed in the Constituent Assembly, the Prime Minister said the great personalities decided against it in the interest of the country's unity.

Modi wondered from where the reservation for minorities would come when the Supreme Court had already fixed the upper limit of total reservation at 50 per cent.

"They will take away the rights of Dalits, STs and OBCs from backdoor. Will you allow this crime," he asked the participants in the rally held at L.B. Stadium.

Telangana Assembly had last year passed a resolution to increase reservation for minorities in jobs and education from 4 per cent to 12 per cent and the same was sent to the Central government.

The TRS had blamed Modi for the delay in implementing its poll promise made in 2014.

Modi also came down heavily on TRS, saying it destroyed Telangana the way Congress destroyed the nation.

Countering Congress President Rahul Gandhi's allegation that TRS was the 'B' team of BJP, Modi said TRS and Congress had common nature, character, thinking and policies, making them the natural allies.

The Prime Minister recalled that during the Karnataka Assembly elections, Rahul Gandhi used to the dub JD (S) as 'B' team of BJP but after the elections, his party formed the government with JD(S) to keep the BJP out of power.

Modi claimed that TRS and Congress had already started planning to prevent the BJP from coming to power in Telangana.

He described dynasty politics as a threat to the democracy.

He pointed out that barring BJP, all major parties in fray in Telangana elections were parties with dynasty politics and family rule. He said Congress, TRS, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM) all were family-centric parties.New Delhi, Dec 3 : The Congress on Monday attacked Prime MInister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah saying the "vendetta politics" of the two was so high that those in government find it unable to speak the turth.

"There is a universal truth which everyone knows from November 2016. The truth is that demonetisation was universally considered as a disaster," Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi told a press conference.

"There is a minority of two people who thinks otherwise, one heads the executive government of India (Modi) and one heads the ruling party (Shah)," he said, adding, "barring the minority of two (Modi and Shah) nobody thinks otherwise."

"It is a different matter that the vendetta politics of these two persons, the anger of these two persons, is so high that those in government find it unable to speak the truth," Singhvi said while responding to former Chief Election Commissioner O.P. Rawat's remarks that demonetisation had no effect on black money in polls.

The former CEC made the remarks after demitting office on December 1.

On November 8, 2016, Modi announced the spiking of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes.

The Congress leader said that the "truth does not alter if one speaks it even after a gap of some time". "The truth is that a minimum of one per cent or in all likelihood 1.5 per cent of the GDP was shaved off by the ego of one man (Modi)," he said.

Hitting out at Modi, the Congress leader said the truth is either one lakh crore or two lakh crore were put in the garbage can away from the GDP of the country by the ego and obstinacy of one person.

"All can I say, at least apologise to the nation now," Singhvi added.

Earlier, former Chief Economic Advisor Arbind Subramaniam in his book said that demonetisation was a massive, draconian monetary shock that accelerated economic slide to 6.8 per cent in the seven quarters after it against the 8 per cent recorded prior to the note ban.

When asked about the Enforcemenrt Directorate attaching a plot of land allotted to the Associated Journals Limited (AJL) by the Haryana government in 2005, Singhvi said that it was completely motivated and done with illwill and malice.

"There is nothing new in this, except election season is here and our point is that it is completely motivated with illwill and malice and it has been repeated many times over," Singhvi added.Kolkata, Dec 3 : A father in West Bengal's Murshidabad district killed his 6-month-old girl child over a domestic fight, police said on Monday.

"Farha Sultana was the second girl child. Her mother lodged a complaint on Sunday against her husband for throwing their baby girl on the ground while fighting with her," an official of Salar police station said.

The child was admitted in Burdwan Medical College and Hospital in a critical condition.

"The girl was injured on Thursday and was shifted to our hospital, but she succumbed on Saturday," said Amitava Saha, deputy superintendent of the hospital.

The husband has been arrested, police said.Rome, Dec 3 : The world's silence over the unsolved 2011 murder of investigative journalist Saleem Shahzad in Pakistan is an embarrassment, Italy's rightwing Brothers of Italy party leader Giorgia Meloni said.

"The international community's silence is embarrassing. It prefers to look the other way in order not to compromise its relations with a military and nuclear power like Pakistan," Meloni stated.

The most basic rights such as freedom of thought and freedom of worship "are no longer guaranteed" in Pakistan, Meloni said.

"This is apparent in the case of reporter Saleem Shahzad and the dramatic plight of (Pakistani Christian woman) Asia Bibi who spend nine years on death row on blasphemy charges that were medieval," she went on.

"And now that she has been acquitted and has been released from jail, she has to live under police protection due to death threats from Islamists," Meloni said.

Parallels have been drawn between the case Shahzad, whose badly tortured body was recovered from a canal in northeast Pakistan on May 31, 2011, and that of slain Italian researcher Giulio Regeni, whose tortured, mutilated corpse was dumped by a highway outside Cairo, ten days after he disappeared in the Egyptian capital on January 25, 2016.

Shahzad vanished in Islamabad on his way to give a TV interview, on May 29, 2011 after writing an article on alleged links between Al-Qaeda and Pakistan's navy while Regeni had been researching the Egypt's trade union movement - a sensitive topic - at the time of his disappearance.

In an interview with AKI last week, Shahzad's widow Anita Saleem said she feared the truth about her husband's murder would never be known and saw similarities unsolved Regeni case.

A government-appointed commission of enquiry in 2012 failed to establish who was responsible for Shahzad's murder. Italian and Egyptian probes in to Regeni's killing have also not led to any arrests or a trial.

Shahzad worked as a correspondent for AKI and was Pakistan Bureau Chief for Asia Times Online. Writing under a pseudonym, Regeni, a PhD student at Cambridge University, had published articles in Italian media that were critical of Egypt's government.Hyderabad, Dec 4 : With Prime Minister Narendra Modi ruling out reservation for the Muslims, AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday advised him to read the Constitution of India.

"If you can't understand the Constitution, I request you to take the help of somebody who knows it," the Hyderabad MP told an election rally of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) here.

Speaking hours after Modi addressed a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rally in Hyderabad, Owaisi said the Prime Minister should read Article 15 and 16 of the Constitution.

The AIMIM chief reminded Modi that his party's government in Karnataka continued the reservation for Muslims. "In Maharashtra you are giving reservation to Marathas. Is it allowed?" he said.

"You can give reservation to Marathas, Jats and Gujjars but not to Muslims. As the Prime Minister you can't discriminate against one community. You have taken oath on the Constitution and you are the Prime Minister of India, which also has Muslims."

The Lok Sabha member from Hyderabad said while Muslims cannot be given reservation on the basis of religion, they can be extended this benefit on the basis of their social and educational backwardness.

He also advised Modi to go through Sacchar Commission, Mishra Commission and Sudheer Committee reports which amply make it clear that Muslims are the most backward socially and educationally after the Dalits.

"Our backwardness is proved but it is another matter that you don't want to accept it. You merely make tall claims of 'sab ka sath, sab ka vikas'," he said.

Owaisi said the AIMIM would make all efforts to see that socially and economically backwards among the Muslims get reservation not just in Telangana and Maharashtra but all over the country.

Addressing a BJP election rally in Hyderabad on Monday night, Modi said minority reservation amounts to an act of treason and those making attempts are insulting the framers of the Constitution.Hyderabad, Dec 4 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said attempts to provide reservation to minorities are betrayal with the nation and an insult to the framers of the Indian Constitution.

Addressing an election rally of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), he called for defeating any such move to protect the country's unity.

Hitting out at the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) government for its move to increase reservation for minorities to 12 per cent, Modi said he was surprised how the power-hungry were pushing for religion-based quota for the sake of their family and to save their seats of power.

Stating that the issue of religion-based reservation was discussed in the Constituent Assembly, the Prime Minister said the great personalities framing the Constitution decided against it in the interest of the country's unity.

Modi wondered from where the reservation for minorities would come when the Supreme Court had already fixed the upper limit of total reservation at 50 per cent.

"They will take away the rights of Dalits, STs and OBCs from backdoor. Will you allow this crime?" he asked the participants in the rally held at L.B. Stadium.

Telangana Assembly had last year passed a resolution to increase reservation for minorities in jobs and education from current 4 per cent to 12 per cent and the same was sent to the Centre. TRS had blamed Modi for the delay in implementing its poll promise made in 2014.

Modi also came down heavily on TRS, saying it destroyed Telangana the way Congress destroyed the nation.

Countering Congress President Rahul Gandhi's allegation that TRS is 'B' team of BJP, Modi said TRS and the Congress had common nature, character, thinking and policies.

The Prime Minister recalled that during the Karnataka Assembly elections, Rahul Gandhi used to dub Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) as the 'B' team of BJP, but after the elections formed the government with the same party to keep the BJP out of power.

Branding the TRS and the Congress as the two sides of the same coin, he alleged that they have already started planning backdoor entry to prevent BJP from coming to power in Telangana.

Modi said both TRS president and Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu had their apprenticeship in the Congress and this made them natural friends.

He described dynasty politics as a threat to the democracy. He pointed out that barring the BJP, all major parties in fray in the Telangana elections were parties with dynasty politics and family rule.

He said the Congress, TRS, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM) all were family-ruled parties. "All these parties are becoming threat to democracy," he remarked.

Modi said Telangana had wasted its five years of welfare due to the arrogance of one family. He alleged that the KCR family exploited emotions of Telangana movement for itself. Stating that Telangana had huge potential, he said the state could not progress because of the kind of rulers it got.

"Why people of Telangana demanded a separate state? Why they suffered so long for separate Telangana. Why so many youth sacrificed their lives? They did it for a bright future of Telangana. One family was not to be given the right to loot Telangana."

Referring to the TDP's alliance with the Congress, Modi recalled that N.T. Rama Rao had formed the TDP for the self-respect of Telugu people after former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had insulted them.

He alleged that TDP president N. Chandrababu Naidu for the sake of power and vested interests put the entire party into the lap of Rahul Gandhi.Los Angeles, Dec 4 : US-based private spaceflight company SpaceX launched Falcon 9 rocket carrying 64 small satellites from Vandenberg Air Force Base in the state of California on Monday.

The mission, dubbed SSO-A, or "SmallSat Express," set a US launch record for most satellites put into space at a single time. It is also SpaceX's first flight to reuse the Falcon 9 first-stage booster a third time.

The rocket blasted off from Space Launch Complex 4 at the air force base at 10:34 a.m. PST (1834 GMT), Xinhua news agency reported.

At about two minutes and 21 seconds after liftoff, SpaceX confirmed first stage main engine cutoff.

Following stage separation, the first stage of the rocket successfully landed on the "Just Read the Instructions" droneship stationed in the Pacific Ocean. It completed Falcon 9's third launch and landing this year.

Later on, SpaceX confirmed second stage engine cutoff and successful deployment of four microsats and the upper and lower free flyer with additional payloads for SSO-A.

The Falcon 9 carried to orbit 64 spacecraft, in particular 15 Micro satellites and 49 cubesats, from 34 different organisations from 17 countries.

The "ride share" mission, SpaceX's 19th mission of 2018, was arranged by a company called Spaceflight Industries.

A series of six deployments will occur approximately 13-43 minutes after liftoff, after which Spaceflight will begin to command its own deployment sequences. Spaceflight's deployments are expected to occur over a period of six hours, according to SpaceX.

"We've developed a deployment sequence that's based off a high-fidelity analysis that we did specifically to make sure our customers don't collide into each other upon deployment, so we're taking our time," said Jeff Roberts, Spaceflight's SSO-A mission manager.

"We make sure that we phase that to maximize the distance in separation between all of our customers," he said.

The mission was previously scheduled for three times, but was postponed to Monday for additional inspections prior to the launch.The filing of criminal charges closes one chapter for the boys families, who long expressed disappointment that the suspects hadnt been arrested sooner. Numerous friends had forwarded tips to the family after the deaths. For months, family members and friends of Raysuan and Darnelle insisted that the teens were killed by people they knew to be friends, though they did not know a possible motive.Vicki Jones, the former Nine Network programming executive, has listed in Palm Beach.

The Sunrise Road weekender was designed by Gerald Nettleton as his own holiday home before he sold it to Jones for $1,326,000 in 1997.

Set on 815 square metres, the three bedroom home with solid timber beams and double height ceilings has full length decks on both levels, one featuring an in-ground spa.

The fully self-contained lower level with its own entrance.

LJ Hooker Palm Beach agents David Edwards and Danielle Ford have the listing. It comes with approval for a third level and additional guest accommodation.

Jones, who founded online store Hotel Luxury Collection, worked at Nine from 1974 until the late 1980s.

She was briefly made Nine's network star stylist after masterminding the wedding of James and Jodhi Packer in 1999.

Jones has previously been a director at The Sydney Festival.

This article first appeared in The Daily Telegraph.Barnaby Joyce has listed his 1000 ha NSW farm, Yarrandinbine at Gwabegar.

The land is in northern NSW.

It comes with an $878,000 asking price through Michael Guest.

"It has had very good rain, the dams are full, and cattle and sheep prices are very good," Joyce said.

It is covered by an as-yet unused coal-seam gas petroleum exploration licence, PEL 428, owned by resources group, Comet Ridge.

Joyce bought the property in 2006 and 2007 in two purchases costing $572,000.

The property pricing at $350 an acre was "good value," the agent said.

"The unfortunate breakdown of the relationship means there has to be the necessary settlement to secure Natalie's position," Joyce told The Australian.It is hardly Hollywood by the Harbour.

But the international actor Isla Fisher retains the Sydney apartment she bought when she was just 20 playing troubled teen Shannon Reed in Home & Away.

She's long gone from Summer Bay, and Sydney, preferring to reside these days in California.

"Juggling a family in LA isnt easy,' the Australian actress told Marie Claire Australia.

Her Woollahra apartment appeared on the rental market this month, likely to yield some $650 a week for the wife of actor Sacha Baron Cohen.

They married in 2010 and have three children.

The couple calls the Hollywood Hills, as far away from the paparazzi and tourists as possible, their home sanctuary.

It was 2010 when they moved into their English country-style manor in Laurel Canyon, an affluent suburb where George Clooney and Paris Hilton also have a home.

They bought the seven bedroom, seven bathroom home with gym, theatre and pool having grown tired of seeing tourists parked outside their former home closer to town.

The Woollahra property attracts no attention.

Bought by Fisher for $171,500 in 1995, the star of Arrested Development stands as one of the longest owners in the 1930s Wiltshire Towers block.

The two bedroom apartment has been recently renovated, with a new kitchen and bathroom with tub.

Laing + Simmons Woollahra agent Jasmin Markham is marketing the Wallis Street rental property.

The last two bedroom, one bathroom apartment without a car space in the block fetched $875,000.

Fisher told Marie Claire Australia earlier this year she has "a secret fantasy" of moving to Byron Bay, which would see her follow in the celebrity footsteps of Thor star Chris Hemsworth.

"I have this secret fantasy of slowing down, moving to Byron Bay, getting off the grid and sitting on the sand with a Vegemite sandwich," she said.

Fisher had representatives set to inspect the Broken Head property recently rented by Bourne Identity star Matt Damon.

Fisher and Baron Cohen are expected to holiday in Australia over the Christmas period.

She recently appeared in the recent Tourism Australia promotion, Dundee - The Son of a Legend Returns Home.

Fisher joined the Summer Bay cast after her role on the short-lived Nine soap Paradise Beach.

In 1997, Fisher left to enrol at L'Ecole Internationale de Theatre Jacques Lecoq, a theatre and arts training school in Paris, before moving to Hollywood in 2002 having secured the part of Mary Jane, the love interest of Shaggy in the live-action film Scooby-Doo.

Fisher has appeared in leading roles in Wedding Crashers, The Great Gatsby and Confessions of a Shopaholic.

In 2016 she began publishing a series of children's books, Marge in Charge, an eccentric and mischievous babysitter.

"Theres not really a culture of bringing your kids to dinner parties or to restaurants past 6pm," she said.

"I tend to entertain at home because I want to be with my family - its easier to put your kids to bed and have a wine with friends.

This article first appeared in The Daily Telegraph.The Melbourne-bound chef Martin Benn and partner, Sepias front of house manager Vicki Wild (right), have secured tenants for their vacated Sydney home.

The Gladesville home had a rental asking price of $1750 a week.

The couple bought the 1900s renovated brick cottage in 2015 for $2.5 million upgrading from their Rozelle apartment which sold for $1.06 million.

Set on 685sqm, the Gladesville home has five bedrooms and a solar-heated pool.

The couple are heading south after veteran restaurateur Chris Lucas, owner of the Chin Chin chain, convinced them to come to Melbourne where they will establish a fine-dining restaurant, due to open in 2020.

Their three-hat restaurant Sepia in the Sydney CBD, which closes in a fortnight, has been operating since 2009.

The most famous restaurant couple in Australia have only ever worked and lived together, excepting for one short stint in Hong Kong.

Last year Lucas, the king of Melbourne casual dining, bought a $3.4 million bolthole in Potts Point ahead of the opening of the Chin Chin restaurant on the ground floor of the Griffiths Teas Building on Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills.

This story first appeared in The Sunday Telegraph.Sydney house values fell 9.2 percent over the past year, their largest annual fall since May 1983.

Overall Sydney dwelling values fell 8.1 percent over the past year.

Unit values declined by 5.5 percent.

Headlining the November results, the CoreLogic hedonic home value index recorded its weakest month-on-month change in dwelling values since the Global Financial Crisis.

National dwelling values slipped 0.7 percent lower in November, led by larger falls in Sydney (1.4 percent) and Melbourne (1 percent) where the pace of decline has accelerated over the past month.

Nationally, dwelling values are down 4.2 percent since peaking in October last year, with dwelling values retracing back to levels last seen in December 2016.

CoreLogic head of research Tim Lawless said the downwards pressure on national dwelling values is largely confined to Sydney and Melbourne which together, comprise approximately 55 percent of the value of Australia's housing asset class.

Since peaking in July last year, Sydney's housing market is down 9.5 percent which is on track to eclipse the previous record peak-to-trough decline set during the last recession when values fell 9.6 percent between 1989 and 1991.

Melbourne dwelling values peaked four months later than Sydney, in November 2017, and have since fallen by 5.8 percent through to the end of November 2018.

"Conditions across the Australian housing market are increasingly diverse," Lawless said.

Dwelling values are trending higher across five of the eight capital cities, albeit at a relatively slow pace compared with the previous surge in Sydney and Melbourne.

"Hobart and regional Tasmania continue to be the standouts for capital gain, with values up 1.7 percent across both regions over the past three months".

Tim Lawless points towards several factors that are influencing the downwards trend in Sydney and Melbourne, while other regions continue to see some level of growth.

"The tightening in finance conditions has been more pronounced across the investor segment of the market, where Sydney and Melbourne have recorded much higher concentrations of investment demand.

"Additionally, housing affordability constraints are more pronounced in these markets and rental yields are substantially lower, indicating an imbalance between rental values and dwelling values.

"The ramp up in housing supply has been more pronounced in these markets against a backdrop of slowing demand, and Sydney and Melbourne have also been more affected by the reduction in foreign buying activity."

"As a consequence of less market activity, advertised listings have surged higher, providing buyers with ample choice which provides for a strong negotiation position on price.

"The rebalancing towards buyers over sellers in Sydney and Melbourne is clear across CoreLogic's vendor metrics, with clearance rates tracking in the low 40 percent range while private treaty sales are showing substantially longer selling times and larger rates of discounting than they have over recent years."The Mount Waverley office in the Barry Plant estate agency group have been been found guilty and fined for underquoting.

They have been fined $720,000, plus $30,000 costs, after the Federal Court of Australia found it had engaged in misleading or deceptive conduct and making false representations about property sales.

It is not the heaviest fine as Fletcher and Parker were fined $880,000 for underquoting last year. And hockingstuart who were also fined $330,000.

The breaches, of the Australian Consumer Law, relate to conduct at the Mount Waverley office which is owned by Melbourne South Eastern Real Estate Pty Ltd.

They also operate Barry Plant offices in Oakleigh and Wheelers Hill.

The fine concerns 25 property sale listings on the realestate.com.au website between September 2014 and August 2015.

The properties were in Ashwood, Burwood, Burwood East, Chadstone, Hughesdale, Mount Waverley and Wheelers Hill.

The company admitted that, when uploading properties for sale, it had set price search parameters that were less than the appraisal price, and estimated selling price written on the sale authority (for some of the properties).

The $720,000 penalty exceeds the $490,923.67 in commissions the agency received for selling those properties.

The Herald Sun reported the case of two Mt Waverley homes, the agency had instructions from the vendors not to sell them below a certain price, which was  more or substantially more than either the display price or the blind price, Justice Mortimer said.

The vendors of one, located at 17 Gordon Rd (pictured in title), said they wouldnt accept an offer of less than $1.2 million. However a blind price was set at $950,000 and the property eventually sold for $1.333 million.

The Federal Court's Justice Mortimer said this example showed the deliberateness of the strategies employed, adding house hunters were entitled not to be misled about the likely selling price of a property.

As part of the ruling Melbourne South Eastern Real Estate must also issue a public notice acknowledging their contraventions and publish it on all websites the company operates, and on realestate.com.au as well as display it in the Mount Waverley office.

The company must also implement a compliance program, including training its staff about their legal obligations under the Australian Consumer Law, and appoint a compliance officer to ensure the program is effectively designed, delivered and maintained.

The vigilant department also secured $60,000 after Consumer Affairs Victoria investigated Harcourts Wantirna and its sole director, Achilles Mantsos, after receiving 17 complaints about the companys conduct between April and July of 2015.

The company acknowledged contraventions relating to four properties under the Australian Consumer Law (Victoria) and 20 properties under the Estate Agents Act 1980 (EAA).

The company routinely set price search parameters when uploading properties for sale on realestate.com.au, which were substantially less than the estimated selling range (ESR) or estimated selling price (ESP) on those properties sale authorities.

As a result, potential buyers searching for properties would enter their nominated price range, and find listings from Harcourts Wantirna for homes whose ESR or ESP was much higher.

In one example, a Wantirna property was advertised for $750,000, when the ESR was listed on the sale authority as $900,000 to $990,000. Another was advertised at $580,000 plus, when the ESR was $690,000 to $750,000.

On other occasions, the company provided an ESR where the difference between the upper and lower range limits was more than 10 per cent of the ranges lower limit, in contravention of the EAA.Ed Hamrick - President of Hamrick Software "I was extremely happy with how good VueScan looks when running in dark mode - the images seem to be much more alive in dark mode." Said Ed Hamrick, President of Hamrick Software.

Scanning makes the most of macOS Mojave Dark Mode, where dark colors are used in place of light colors in the user interface.

People scanning images often prefer for the image to be the main source of light on the screen. Dark mode makes letters light and the background of letters dark - the user mostly sees the image without being distracted by the bright background colors of light mode.

"I was extremely happy with how good VueScan looks when running in dark mode - the images seem to be much more alive in dark mode," said Ed Hamrick, President of Hamrick Software.

VueScan dynamically changes colors when the system preferences change between light and dark mode, even mid-scan.

VueScan 9.6.22 also adds support for dark modes on Windows and Linux. On Windows, dark modes can be enabled in the Personalization control panel (or Appearance on Windows XP), and dark modes can be enabled on Linux by setting up a theme in the Appearance settings. These change in VueScan while running, even mid-scan.

Along with dark mode support, VueScan 9.6.22 supports users who are seeing-impaired. VueScan on Windows, macOS and Linux supports high-contrast modes which improve visibility by seeing-impaired people. As with dark mode, these can be changed while VueScan is running, even mid-scan.

In addition, VueScan adds numerous user interface improvements in VueScan 9.6.22, especially the ability to cut/copy/paste text. People often work with long file names, and find this extremely useful.

VueScan is targeted for all levels of users and has 3 modes to work in - Basic, Standard and Professional. It offers an easy to use one-stop Scan button which will scan with all the settings done automatically.

VueScan also offers a full range of advanced features; including batch scanning and multi-page PDF output, options for scanning faded slides and prints (and automatically adjusting images to optimum color balance that reduces the need to manually do it in Photoshop.) VueScan also includes built-in IT8 color calibration of scanners, producing colors that look true to life, and other advanced and powerful scanning and productivity features.

Availability and support:

VueScan is available in two editions, Standard Edition ($29.95 USD) and Professional Edition ($79.95). Both licenses are for life and support up to 4 computers, but the Professional Edition adds unlimited free upgrades, support for film scanning and advanced features.

A fully functional, trial copy of VueScan can be downloaded from http://www.hamrick.com/.

Multi-user licenses are available.

Upgrades are released regularly, and technical support is available online.

About Hamrick Software:

Based in Miami, Florida, Hamrick Software was founded in 1991. Its first product was VuePrint, an easy to use JPEG viewer for Windows that for many years was the recommended image viewer for AOL, with more than 100,000 users. In 1998, the company first released VueScan, a program for scanning with flatbed and film scanners, there are now more than 600,000 users all over the world with VueScan supporting over 3000 scanners.

For more information, contact:

Hamrick Software

16850 Collins Ave Suite 112-711

Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160

Media enquiries, contact: beverley(at)hamrick.com

Web: http://www.hamrick.com

E-mail: support(at)hamrick.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/VueScanOne of the most frequently asked questions is how does the contractors software align with the owners software? With Kahuas project network options, that question is now answered, said Tiffany LaBruno, Directory of Professional Services at Gafcon.

Kahua, the creator of the worlds premier collaborative network for real estate and construction project management, and Gafcon, one of the nations premier construction services firm, today announced a new strategic partnership. The partnership will leverage Gafcons decades of specialized experience in program and project management consulting. Together, Kahua and Gafcon will offer innovative solutions, bringing efficiency, configurability, visibility and control to every layer of capital programs.

Transformation in our industry requires a combination of technology, business intelligence and consulting expertise, said Brian Moore, President of Kahua. Gafcon, is an ideal partner for Kahua. Their consulting expertise will provide exciting new solutions for our customers in The Kahua Network.

As a trusted advisor to many public and private owners, one of the most frequently asked questions is how does the contractors software align with the owners software? With Kahuas project network options, that question is now answered, said Tiffany LaBruno, Directory of Professional Services at Gafcon.

About Kahua

Kahua is changing the way that capital assets are delivered and managed. The Kahua Network is the worlds leading collaborative network for real estate and construction project management. Delivered as a secure, scalable Application Platform-as-a-Service (aPaaS), The Kahua Network enables users to easily share data, documents and workflows across all applications and projects, and among all authorized network participants. Kahua supports leading mobile devices and tablets, integrates with third party applications and numerous accounting systems, and enables customers and certified development partners to quickly modify existing applications or build custom applications that operate on The Kahua Network. To learn more, visit http://www.kahua.com.

About Gafcon

Gafcon, Inc. has been in business since 1987, representing owners to provide construction, project, and program management services, as well as technology solutions. Gafcon delivers complex projects that power vibrant communities. For more information, visit http://www.gafcon.com.The United Nations will be celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on 3 December. This day aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society while increasing awareness on the challenges of this community in every aspect of political, social, economic, and cultural life. It presents an opportunity to focus the international communitys collective attention towards an often overlooked demographic and advance the understanding of disability issues.

In observance of IDPD, the United Nations Secretariat will be hosting a series of events including a collaborative effort between the UN Department of Management (UNDM), UN Office of Human Resources Management (UN OHRM), UN Office of Information Communication Technology (UN OICT), and Kessler Foundation. This high-level event titled Art of the Possible features leaders from both the disability community and the United Nations.

Featured speakers include actor Daryl Chill Mitchell, star of NCIS: New Orleans on CBS and Fear of the Walking Dead on AMC. Mr. Mitchell, who has paraplegia, is one of few actors living with a disability actively working on the silver screen. He will share his message Living your dream with a disability at UN Headquarters in NYC and will also be streamed online to UN offices across the world (link). Mr. Mitchell will be sharing the stage with Under-Secretary-General Jan Beagle (UNDM), UN Assistant Secretary-Generals Martha Helena Lopez (UN OHRM) and Atefeh Riazi (UN OICT), Ambassador Kelley Currie, Representative of the USA on the Economic and Social Council, as well as, Xian Horn, Contributor at ForbesWomen who will deliver opening remarks.

The Art of the Possible conversation is structured as a candid panel, moderated by Rodger DeRose (President and CEO of Kessler Foundation), that aims to frame the challenges of inclusion and true integration for the disabled community. Panelists include Susan Robinson, TED resident, Jim Sinocchi, Head of Disability Inclusion at JP Morgan Chase & Co, and Christina Mallon, Board Member at Open Style Lab. This conversation will be coupled with a technology exhibition that showcases various solution sets advancing the lives of the disabled.

During the event, Kessler Foundation will present a live demonstration of the EksoGT, a robotic exoskeleton from Ekso Bionics one of its marquee innovative solutions. Other technologies and design solutions include the UN Office of Human Resources Management, the UN Office of Information Communication Technology, Open Style Lab and User 1st solutions.

Press Conference will be held before the panel discussion from 11:00AM- 11:30AM ET with Daryl Chill Mitchell, Martha Helena Lopez, Atefeh Riazi, and Rodger DeRose. If you would like to attend only the press conference, please email communications@zazaadvisors.com for credentials and access to the venue. Press should arrive at the UN Secretariat Visitors Entrance (1st Ave and 46th Street) by 10:15AM to have enough time to pass through security and enter the building.Nashville-based Advance Financial accepts its 2018 NEXT Award. Nashville is our home, so were honored to play our part in making this city one of the best in the nation for starting a business. We couldnt imagine our headquarters based anywhere else.

Leading fintech company Advance Financial, led by husband-wife team Mike and Tina Hodges, was named the winner of the Family Business category at the 2018 NEXT Awards. Organized by the Nashville Entrepreneur Center, the NEXT Awards recognize businesses of all sizes that make a significant impact on the Middle Tennessee economy.

Nashville is our home, so were honored to play our part in making this city one of the best in the nation for starting a business, said Tina Hodges, chief executive and chief experience officer, Advance Financial. We couldnt imagine our headquarters based anywhere else.

Edleys BBQ and R.C. Mathews Contractor were also named finalists in the Family Business category. Winners were celebrated at a ceremony earlier this month.

About Advance Financial

Founded in 1996, Advance Financial is a leading multi-state fintech company based in Nashville, Tennessee. Family owned and operated, the company is aggressively investing in the expansion of its market presence. In keeping with its vision of a world-class customer experience, Advance Financial is delivering instant lending decisions and brick-and-mortar money services 24/7/365. In 2018, the company was named to the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the country for the seventh year in a row. The Nashville Business Journal also named Advance Financial as 2018s fourth fastest growing company in the Nashville market, and Forbes included the company on its 2018 list of Best Employers for New Graduates. For more information visit https://www.af247.com.High quality charter schools can serve as important options for families, but we have been clear that in order to operate in our district schools must provide students with a high quality education and applicants must meet a clear need in the community and prove their ability to serve students well, CPS CEO Janice Jackson said in a statement Monday.FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sarah Rhoads, Director of Amazon Air, has been named the 2018 Air Cargo Executive of the Year by Air Cargo World, for the integral part she played in the development of Amazons air cargo operation.

2018 has certainly been a year of growth for the Amazon Air program, Rhoads told Air Cargo Worlds editor, Randy Woods, in an exclusive interview. Im certainly proud of all the work my team has done to get to this point.

Air Cargo World annually recognizes the air cargo executive who has made the greatest contribution to the industry during that calendar year. The award has been presented annually since 2014. Last year, Peter Gerber, CEO of Lufthansas Cargo division, won the award. Sarah Rhoads is the first woman to win the Air Cargo Executive of the Year Award.

After a successful career as a pilot and flight instructor for the U.S. Navys carrier-based F/A-18 aircraft, Rhoads moved into operational roles at Amazon. After a number of years managing various aspects of fulfillment centers in the United States and the United Kingdom, Rhoads is now responsible for providing the leadership and vision for Amazons expanding air cargo network, which recently grew to 40 freighters operating out of 21 U.S.-based gateway destinations to support its customers fulfillment network, as of November.

In 2018, Amazon Air added eight 767F freighters to its fleet and seven new gateway destinations in Denver; Hartford; Minneapolis; Portland, Ore.; Honolulu; Miami; and the latest addition, Riverside, Calif., bringing the total to 21 gateways.

The main goal, this year and every year, is to ensure that the carrier has the capacity necessary to fulfill Amazons customer promise, Rhoads said. Weve been very methodical with our planning, so fortunately I wouldnt say weve been particularly surprised by anything. Weve been able to maintain stability in a year with still some fairly rapid growth.

The award was presented to Rhoads based on input from Air Cargo World readers, as well as its editors. As part of the award, she graces the cover of Air Cargo Worlds December/January issue. The feature article based on Woods exclusive interview is published today on http://www.aircargoworld.com.

About Air Cargo World

Air Cargo World, an award-winning publication that has been published for more than 75 years, aims to provide air logistics professionals with insightful information, data analysis, feature articles, and in-depth coverage of events and trends affecting the airfreight logistics industry. The magazine is published digitally and online at http://www.aircargoworld.com and includes a daily email newsletter. More than 50,000 industry professionals read Air Cargo World every month.

Air Cargo World is published by New York-based Royal Media, a leading specialized information and news company. Randy Woods, Editor, Air Cargo World is available for comment on this release as well as expert commentary on the global air freight market. He can be reached at rwoods(at)aircargoworld(dot)com.

From: Royal Media Group

8 West 38th St., Suite 901

New York, NY 10018

Contact: Kathryn Grant

kgrant(at)royalmedia(dot)comAmerican IRA CEO, Jim Hitt People who direct their own accounts need to have an expert in their corner who understands the details

The world of the Self-Directed Real Estate IRA can be confusing for those new to the concept, but American IRA recently released a list of Self-Directed Real Estate IRA terms to help retirement investors make sense of phrases like cap rate and unrelated debt-financed income.

In the glossary, American IRA points out that a Self-Directed IRA is a retirement account held by an investor who retains direct control of the individual investment decisions while including the choice of a custodian or broker. With Self-Direction, it is possible for an investor to utilize a wide degree of assets such as real estate to diversify out of the stock market and utilize retirement account protections for these assets.

Investing in real estate through a Self-Directed IRA affords a number of benefits like tax protectionbut it also means that investors have to know what to do. According to Jim Hitt, CEO of American IRA, thats why the company released a glossary of terms to help clarify the issue.

There are a lot of confusing terms for someone whos just started out in investing, said Jim Hitt. And when you write an article that uses a lot of these terms, it does not make sense. We decided to put out a glossary of Self-Directed Real Estate IRA terms to help people make sense of what they are readingas well as understand why it is so important to give themselves the knowledge they need to handle something like a Self-Directed Real Estate IRA.

The glossary goes on to define a wide range of terms, including Roth IRA, rollover, prohibited investments, probate, hard money loans, Fair Market Value, disqualified persons, and more. Some of these terms apply to all retirement investors, while others are more specifically directed at anyone who holds real estate within a Self-Directed IRA.

This is why it is so important to work with a reputable Self-Directed IRA custodian, said Jim Hitt. People who direct their own accounts need to have an expert in their corner who understands the details.

For more information, or to visit the glossary, visit http://www.AmericanIRA.com. Call American IRA at 866-7500-IRA.

"About:

American IRA, LLC was established in 2004 by Jim Hitt, CEO in Asheville, NC.

The mission of American IRA is to provide the highest level of customer service in the self-directed retirement industry. Jim Hitt and his team have grown the company to over $400 million in assets under administration by educating the public that their Self-Directed IRA account can invest in a variety of assets such as real estate, private lending, limited liability companies, precious metals and much more.

As a Self-Directed IRA administrator, they are a neutral third party. They do not make any recommendations to any person or entity associated with investments of any type (including financial representatives, investment promoters or companies, or employees, agents or representatives associated with these firms). They are not responsible for and are not bound by any statements, representations, warranties or agreements made by any such person or entity and do not provide any recommendation on the quality profitability or reputability of any investment, individual or company. The term "they" refers to American IRA, located in Asheville and Charlotte, NC."This is a natural fit for both companies. We look forward to expanding the brands presence in more meat processing locations.

Bettcher Industries, Inc. announces that it has entered into a multi-year distribution agreement with Grasselli S.p.A and Grasselli SSI covering selected equipment segments sold into the American market.

According to the terms of the agreement, Bettcher Industries becomes the official distributor of Grasselli manual and conveyorized membrane skinners and derinders for the U.S. market. The agreement covers sales of equipment and parts, along with service activities which will be provided by Bettcher technicians.

According to senior leaders at both companies, the distribution agreement is a strong strategic fit for both entities. It combines Grassellis innovative skinner and derinder product designs and performance with Bettchers focus on primary processing operations.

Bettcher is well-positioned to support primary processing because of the companys in-depth knowledge of yield management as well as its intimate, consultative approach to supporting Americas meat processing plants. Not only has Bettcher forged strong working relationships with a large majority of the meat processing facilities throughout the country, its yield specialists and technicians excel at providing the yield management support that primary processors seek  and have done so for decades.

Grasselli slicing equipment is not included in the distribution agreement. Existing Grasselli slicer customers in the United States will continue to be supported through Grasselli SSI, the companys American marketing partner. Grasselli SSI will now focus its full efforts on growing slicing equipment sales and deepening business relationships with the customers of those products.

Commenting on the new distribution agreement, Don Esch, Bettchers CEO, stated, This is a natural fit for both companies. Grasselli has a superior lineup of membrane skinner and derinder products, and we look forward to expanding the brands presence in more meat processing locations. Not only are we able to provide productivity solutions for meat processors, were committed to promoting the Grasselli brand while growing its reach and penetration here in the United States.

Effective immediately, all current and future Grasselli skinner/derinder customers in the United States should contact Bettcher Industries directly concerning equipment purchases and parts ordering. The toll-free number is 800-321-8763. You may also e-mail your request to sales(at)bettcher.com.

For more information about the new distribution agreement, visit http://www.bettcher.com/about/latest-news.

About Grasselli

Founded in 1974, Grasselli S.p.A. designs and manufactures industrial and retail slicing systems. It also provides portioning and packaging solutions, safety systems, plus skinners and derinders. The companys mission is to deliver the most specialized, high-yield and safe protein-slicing and skinning solutions by providing equipment for processing pork, beef, poultry and other products. Grasselli S.p.A. is headquartered in Albinea, Italy and sells its products worldwide through a network of distributors. Grasselli SSI, the companys North American marketing partner, is based in Throop, Pa. Website address: http://www.grasselli.com.

About Bettcher Industries

Bettcher Industries, Inc. is an ISO 9001:2015-certified, vertically integrated manufacturing company with a global customer base and direct distribution and service in more than 70 countries throughout the world. The enterprise is a leading developer and manufacturer of innovative equipment for food processing, foodservice, industrial, medical and other operations. Established in 1944, Bettcher brings more than seven decades of successful innovation to the market, including holding nearly 100 active patents. Website address http://www.bettcher.com.New Castle Dental Office in Buda Im committed to providing my patients with the highest quality of care.

Smile Brands Inc., one of the nations leading providers of business support services to dental groups in the United States, today announced the grand opening of another affiliated Castle Dental office. The new office will be the first for the City of Buda and the 119th office in the state of Texas.

Castle Dental is one of the fastest growing dental care providers in Texas. Patients enjoy the convenient hours, comfortable offices and full-service care they receive at Castle Dental offices. All locations provide preventative care and general dentistry, plus most offices also offer specialty care services, such as orthodontics (braces), Invisalign, oral surgery, periodontics, and endodontics. The new location at 340 Old San Antonio Road, Suite 140 in Buda will be open six days a week including evenings and Saturdays. Castle Dental offices in Texas accept most major insurance plans, and offer flexible financing options so patients can afford the care they need.

To celebrate the grand opening, the new Buda dental office will offer a special $29 New Patient Check-Up Package, including exam with oral cancer screening and digital x-rays, and $100 off dental services over $300. Opening this new location helps Smile Brands and its affiliated dental groups achieve their mission to provide Smiles for Everyone by bringing affordable dental care to local neighborhoods.

Leading the clinical team in the new Castle Dental office is Melissa Otero, D.M.D. Dr. Otero received her undergraduate degree from the University of Massachusetts Boston and later went on to receive a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry degree from University of Puerto Rico School of Dentistry. She also completed an internship in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in New York.

Im committed to providing my patients with the highest quality of care, says Dr. Otero. As part of that, I like to educate my patients and give them options for achieving their goals.

This new office is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8am  5pm, Tuesdays from 10am  7 pm and Thursdays from 9am  6 pm. To accommodate peoples busy schedules, the office will also be open at least one Saturday per month.

Prospective patients can call the new Buda Castle Dental office at 512-400-4035 or toll free at 1-800-867-6453. People can also visit us online to schedule an appointment at our new Buda location.

About Smile Brands Inc.

Based in Irvine California, Smile Brands Inc. is one of the largest providers of support services to dental groups in the United States. Smile Brands Inc. provides comprehensive business support services through exclusive long term agreements with affiliate dental groups, so dentists can spend more time caring for their patients and less time on the administrative, marketing, and financial aspects of operating a dental practice. Smile Brands supports approximately 400 Bright Now! Dental, Monarch Dental, Castle Dental, A+ Dental Care, OneSmile Dental, Johnson Family Dental and P3 Dental Group offices in 16 states, including Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Washington. Smile Brands is a portfolio company of Gryphon Investors, a leading middle-market private equity firm based in San Francisco, CA. For more information, visit http://www.smilebrands.com.On behalf of all Sola stakeholders, I'd like to thank our team of advisors at Centennial Peaks Capital for managing the transactionThey offered astute strategic financial guidance through every step of the way over the course of completing a very complicated transaction," said CEO Randall Clark

Sola Salon Studios announced on November 2 that a consortium of 3 investment groups acquired a majority interest in Sola Salon Studios. "We are very excited as this new investment and ongoing capital commitment from our new partners will provide us with significant financial resources and the ability to successfully and quickly deliver on key strategies and goals," shared Randall Clark, CEO of Sola Salon Studios. The three groups are MPK Equity Partners, AHR Growth Partners and PNC Riverarch Capital, which will now hold the majority stake in the company. The current management team, led by Clark, will remain in place.

Sola Salon Studios is the leading franchisor and operator of salon suites across the United States. The company was founded in 2004 by Stratton Smith and Matt Briger and is most recognized salon studio/suite provider in the beauty industry with a current community comprised of over 11,000 beauty professionals across 400+ locations. Both Smith and Briger will continue to maintain an interest in the company moving forward.

Sola Salon Studios has become a category-defining franchise brand and provides a unique service to entrepreneurs, providing stylists and beauty professionals high-end, fully-equipped salon studios where they can start their own businesses without the administrative burden and risk associated with opening a retail storefront. The company plans to continue its strong growth and anticipates opening more than 50 new locations per year.

Clark added: "This acquisition and recapitalization is an incredible milestone for our business and a validation not only of the Sola business model and concept, but a milestone as the first in the beauty industry in this category. We are excited as this new investment will allow for accelerated growth in many areas including increased innovations, enhanced technology and resources, increase of company-owned locations and accelerated international expansion."

"We could not be more thrilled to make this investment," said Doug Kennealey, Managing Partner at MPK Equity Partners, who will join the Sola Board of Directors. "The founders and management team have built an absolutely fantastic business, and we're excited to become their partners as the company embarks on this exciting next phase in its evolution."

Andrew Wiechkoske, Principal at PNC Riverarch Capital added, "Sola's leading market position and strong franchisee support have positioned the company for continued growth. We're very excited to partner with the Sola team as the company executes on its growth plan."

Centennial Peaks Capital, a Denver-based boutique investment banking firm, served as the exclusive financial advisor for Sola Salon Studios on this transaction. "On behalf of all Sola stakeholders, I'd like to thank our team of advisors at Centennial Peaks Capital for managing the transaction and enabling us to achieve a tremendous outcome with the right partners matching our philosophy, culture, and growth objectives. They offered astute strategic financial guidance through every step of the way over the course of completing a very complicated transaction," said CEO Randall Clark.

ABOUT SOLA SALON STUDIOS

In 2004, Sola Salon Studios was established with the opening of our first location in Denver, CO. Now with more than 400 locations open in the US and Canada, we are proud to offer salon professionals the freedom and benefits of salon ownership without the upfront costs and risks associated with opening a traditional salon. Our innovative salon model empowers hairdressers, estheticians, nail techs, massage therapists and other like-minded professionals to take control of their lives and their careers. We provide beauty professionals with high-end, fully-equipped salon studios alongside the support and tools they need to launch their salon business in no time.

ABOUT PNC RIVERARCH CAPITAL

PNC Riverarch Capital is a private equity firm which invests in privately held companies headquartered in North America. PNC Riverarch Capital invests across a variety of industry sectors, including consumer products and services, outsourced business services, specialized manufacturing, and value-added distribution. PNC Riverarch Capital is a division of PNC Capital Finance LLC, a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. Since 1982, PNC has invested in excess of $1.3 billion of equity capital in more than 100 companies.

ABOUT MPK EQUITY PARTNERS

MPK Equity Partners is a Dallas, Texas-based private investment firm which takes a targeted, thematic approach to partnering with exceptional entrepreneurs and executives to invest in growing, profitable companies in the consumer, tech-enabled business services, energy, education, healthcare, and specialty distribution / manufacturing sectors.

ABOUT AHR GROWTH PARTNERS

AHR Growth Partners invests in and advises emerging consumer brands. The firm targets growing lifestyle brands that have demonstrated proof of concept but may be too early for traditional private equity. AHR's proprietary network has deep experience in both minority and control situations.

For more information, please visit https://www.SolaSalonStudios.com or https://www.CentennialPeaksCapital.com.

Securities-related services, including M&A advisory for transactions involving stock or debt and private capital raising, are offered through Crewe Capital, LLC, member FINRA (http://www.finra.org) / SiPC (http://www.sipc.org). Centennial Peaks Capital and Crewe are not affiliated entities. Principals of Centennial are registered investment banking agents with Crewe and shall perform such services on behalf of Crewe.Its our pleasure to name Overstock as our highest-ranked retailer for Charm Bracelets in 2018

TopConsumerReviews.com recently gave a best-in-class 5 star rating to Overstock, a leader among stores that sell Charm Bracelets.

Charm bracelets are a beautiful way to hold on to treasured memories, honor a special person, or just show off ones personal style. Despite its origins as a way to invite good luck or ward off evil spirits, the charm bracelet is now one of the most popular types of customizable jewelry on the market. Charm bracelets come in a wide variety of styles, from dangling pendant-like charms to bead-style charms that slide on; some charms include precious stones or Swarovski crystal. No matter what type of charm bracelet a shopper is looking for, theyll find the best selection online - with many retailers offering hundreds or even thousands of charms and bracelets, making it a one-stop shop to create a truly unique piece of jewelry to cherish.

Overstock really has the wow factor when it comes to the variety of charms and bracelets they offer, described Brian Dolezal of TopConsumerReviews.com, LLC. From cute and colorful costume jewelry to 18K white gold and everything in between, youll find it at Overstock. Their site makes it easy to sort through the thousands of charms they carry, with filters for colors, themes like holidays and animals, or even your target age group. Overstock also has a fantastic reputation for customer service, and frequent discounts and promotions let you save money. Plus, a 30-day return policy ensures that youre completely happy with your purchase. Its our pleasure to name Overstock as our highest-ranked retailer for Charm Bracelets in 2018.

To find out more about Overstock and other sites for buying Charm Bracelets, including reviews and comparison rankings, please visit the Charm Bracelets category of TopConsumerReviews.com at https://www.topconsumerreviews.com/charm-bracelets/.

About Overstock

Overstock is an online retailer based in Salt Lake City, Utah that sells a broad range of products at low prices, including furniture, decor, rugs, bedding, and home improvement. In addition to home goods, Overstock offers a variety of products including jewelry, electronics, apparel, and more, as well as a marketplace providing customers access to hundreds of thousands of products from third-party sellers.

About TopConsumerReviews.com

TopConsumerReviews.com, LLC is a leading provider of reviews and rankings for thousands of consumer products and services. From Charm Bracelets to Jewelry and Perfume Stores, TopConsumerReviews.com delivers in-depth product evaluations in order to make purchasing decisions easier.The Wayfair case has opened the door for states to require remote sellers to use a states taxes, which has far-reaching effects across the country, says David Klasing.

On December 7, 2018, nationally recognized CPA and tax attorney David Klasing will offer a presentation with the San Diego Tax Institute at the Handlery Hotel & Resort in San Diego. The session will take place at 3:50 PM and will feature a discussion about State Sales Tax Issues, with an Update on the Wayfair case.

The Wayfair case, or South Dakota vs. Wayfair Inc., which was heard by the Supreme Court in July of 2018, has been a pivotal case for the application of state sales taxes on virtual or online businesses. Before the case was heard, internet sellers collected a states sales tax from buyers only if the company had property or employees in a state. With the new ruling, states are allowed to collect sales tax from businesses without employees operating within their state lines. Klasing plans to discuss the relevance of the case on California businesses that must now adhere to the new laws.

The San Diego Tax Institute, in association with CalCPA, is a conference bringing together tax experts and lawyers from throughout California. 2018 marks the twenty-first year of the conference, and this year, presenters topics will range from California tax changes to international tax updates. In addition to Klasings panel on the Wayfair case, David Flamer will speak about considerations for those with cannabis clients. Each conference session will provide in-depth information about legislation and regulations, showing participants the biggest and most significant changes in taxation in 2018.

The Wayfair case has opened the door for states to require remote sellers to use a states taxes, which has far-reaching effects across the country, says David Klasing, A dually licensed tax attorney and CPA. The presentation will break down those changes specific to California and explore the possible uses of the courts decision on companies, corporations, and citizens in the future.

Klasing owns and operates a tax, estate planning and business law firm in Southern California. He is dually licensed as an attorney and certified public accountant and brings with him more than 20 years of professional experience in these industries. Klasings extensive knowledge about tax best practices, as well as laws and regulations, showcase his abilities to provide an informational, up-to-date panel session for attendees. He is particularly knowledgeable about California laws and their application to both citizens and businesses within the state.

Registration is open for the conference online. Pricing for both members and nonmembers of the CalCPA is competitive, and all CPAs in California are invited to join the event. To register online for the San Diego Tax Institute sessions, please visit: https://www.calcpa.org/events-and-programs/event-details?id=4ce631ec-37fe-4d8f-891a-548f53e89457

About Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing:

Based in Southern California, the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing serve as a boutique tax, estate planning, and business law firm offering the services of a tax attorney and a CPA for the price of one. Licensed as a lawyer in California and certified in public accounting, the firm provides businesses and individuals the help they need to navigate tax issues, while also offering accounting, tax compliance and planning services. To learn more about the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing, visit https://klasing-associates.com/.Jennifer S. Ko, MD, PhD, Associate Staff in Dermatopathology, Cleveland Clinic Medical Director, Central Biorepository, Cleveland Clinic

Currently, the Cleveland Clinic Biorepository is an assembly of several biobanks together with the Lerner Research Institute. Excel spreadsheets track almost everything  and there are no universal LIS, SOPs, universal, centralized freezer monitoring, or means to track patient tissue electronically.

As part of this initiative, the Cleveland Clinic is partnering with Brooks Life Sciences to build a state of the art, 21,000 square-foot structure biobanking facility, set to open in the summer of 2020.

The collaboration will partner with the community of Cleveland to advance personalized medicine for an array of conditions and support research with clinically annotated human tissue samples. It will accelerate translational research through streamlined patient recruitment and enrollment, standardized samples processing, and centralized storage, and allow Cleveland Clinic experts and their collaborators to investigate and cure the diseases that ail patients.

Dr. Jennifer S. Ko is the Medical Director of the Cleveland Clinic Central Biorepository housed within Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. She is also a Dermatopathologist with an interest in melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma and tumor immunology. She completed her BS/MD in the 6-year program at Northeast Ohio Medical University. She then completed an Internship at Cleveland Clinic in Internal Medicine, and a PhD in Immunology at Case Western Reserve University. She is boarded in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology and Dermatopathology, and received all of her training at the Cleveland Clinic.

The free webinar hosted by LabRoots on December 12, 2018, will begin at 7:00am PST, 10:00 am EST. To learn more about this event, the continuing education credits offered and to register click here.

About Brooks Life Sciences

Brooks Life Sciences is proud to partner with research scientists across the globe and to support the search for new medical cures by delivering the industrys most innovative portfolio of sample management solutions. Our products, services, and technology are empowering research advancements and creating hope for the delivery of healthier and brighter tomorrows to individuals around the world.

About LabRoots

LabRoots is the leading scientific social networking website, offering top scientific trending news and premier educational virtual events and webinars. Contributing to the advancement of science through content sharing capabilities, LabRoots is a powerful advocate in amplifying global networks and communities. Founded in 2008, LabRoots emphasizes digital innovation in scientific collaboration and learning. We have become a primary source for trending scientific news, webinars, virtual conferences and more. Offering more than articles and webcasts that go beyond the mundane and explore the latest discoveries in the world of science, LabRoots users can stay atop their field by gaining continuing education credits from a wide range of topics through their participation in the webinars and virtual events. Join for free and become part of the largest scientific learning community in the world.The HousingWire Vanguard Awards recognize the top business leaders contributing to the growth of the housing finance industry and its various sectors, including lending, servicing, investments and real estate.

Finicity, a leading provider of real-time financial data aggregation and insights, announced today that CEO, chairman and co-founder Steve Smith has been selected as a 2018 HousingWire Vanguard.

The HousingWire Vanguard Awards recognize the top business leaders contributing to the growth of the housing finance industry and its various sectors, including lending, servicing, investments and real estate. The majority of the winners are from the C-suite, and many are also founders or co-founders of their businesses. Winners will be recognized in HousingWires December/January issue.

Im honored to have my efforts recognized among other top leaders in the mortgage industry, said Smith. At Finicity, were fully dedicated to our mission of using tech to empower consumers through improved access to and control over their financial data. Over the last few years, weve seen remarkable innovation within the mortgage industry as it becomes more modern and digital, and were glad to play a central role.

Smith, who founded Finicity in 2000 alongside current company president Nick Thomas, has led Finicity in its efforts to modernize the way consumers are empowered to share, use and manage their financial data. Finicity has developed and deployed a variety of products for mortgage lending, including its Verification of Assets (VoA) and Verification of Income (VoI) solutions, which add speed and accuracy to the loan application process.

Additionally, Smith is leading Finicity to bring more financial services to the underbanked. Finicitys recent UltraFICOcredit score announcement with FICO and Experian is a large part of this. This solution, which enables consumers to contribute data to be applied to their credit score, will begin rolling out in 2019.

As the Vanguards award program continues to grow and to be more successful, the entry point

gets tighter. These winners are truly the best Vanguards in the mortgage finance industry, and

they all deserve the highest honor in the space, said HousingWire Editor-in-Chief Jacob

Gaffney.

Vanguard Award winners are recognized based on their accomplishments in the last 12 months in both their companies and the industry sector they represent.

Earlier this year, Finicity was also named a 2018 HousingWire Tech100 winner. To stay up-to-date on Finicity news, announcements and press, visit http://www.finicity.com/newsroom.

About Finicity:

Finicitys mission is to help individuals, families and organizations make smarter financial decisions through safe and secure access to fast, high-quality data. The company, which launched its first financial product in 2000 and has since grown to provide financial data APIs, credit decisioning tools and financial wellness solutions, partners with influential financial institutions and disruptive fintech providers alike to give consumers a leg up in a complicated financial world. The company has developed more than 15,000 bank, wealth management and credit card integrations, giving it broad market coverage and utilizes advanced analytics and data intelligence to deliver rich financial insights. Finicity received recognition from American Banker in its 20 Best Fintechs to Work For list, it was awarded API Worlds 2016 Finance API of the Year and is a 2018 HousingWire Tech100 winner. To learn more or test drive its API, visit http://www.finicity.com.

About HW Media:

HW Media is the leading digital community for real estate, financial services and fintech professionals to engage, connect and gain knowledge. Founded in 2016 through the acquisition of HousingWire, HW Media is based in Dallas, TX with team members across the country. HW Media is owned by Riomar Capital.

About HousingWire:

HousingWire is the most influential source of news and information for the U.S. mortgage and housing markets. Built on a foundation of independent and original journalism, HousingWire reaches over 40,000 newsletter subscribers daily and over 4 million unique visitors each year. Our audience of mortgage, real estate, financial services and fintech professionals rely on us to Move Markets Forward. Visit http://www.HousingWire.com or http://www.solutions.housingwire.com to learn more.On Sunday, as people gathered, they greeted old friends with hugs and even laughter. And they told the stories again. Of how alphabetical seating by the nuns meant they were in the back of a room, close enough to a window to get on a ladder. Or how their fourth-grade classroom happened to be close to an exit. And how the priests told them to always be grateful they survived.Forrest T. Jones & Company (FTJ) announced that it has completed an agreement with Arch Insurance Company to serve as the Program Administrator for Archs accountants professional liability insurance program.

FTJ will market, underwrite and administer the program under its ProDefender product line to CPAs and CPA firms with annual revenues up to $5 million. The program will be offered to eligible accountants on an admitted basis in 28 states.

ProDefenders comprehensive coverage (http://www.prodefender.com) is designed to meet the needs of CPAs and CPA firms performing a wide range of accounting services.

FTJ will continue to serve the professional liability needs of larger CPA firms, whose revenues exceed $5 million per year, on an open brokerage basis.

Forrest T. Jones & Company is an insurance broker and administrator formed in 1953 to provide insurance products and other financial services to members of associations and other affinity groups.

Based in Kansas City, MO, FTJs staff of 250 insurance professionals provides comprehensive insurance programs and full-service administration for more than 80 national associations and hundreds of employer groups, and the agency works with the nations leading insurance carriers.

FTJ has been active in the professional liability insurance market for more than 40 years.

Arch Insurance Group Company is a member of Arch Capital Group Ltd., a Bermuda-based company that provides insurance and reinsurance on a worldwide basis through its wholly owned subsidiaries. For more information, visit http://www.archcapgroup.com/insurance/regions/United-States.

For more information, contact:

Joseph Barnard, CPA, Program Director

W- (214) 593-9152 / C - (469) 616-7905

jbarnard@ftj.comGroGuru Wireless Underground System (WUGS) Precision Soil Monitoring Solution The GroGuru WUGS solution allows us to take our successful first-generation solution that has received great acceptance in the horticulture and fruit & nut tree farming markets, to the market for high volume annual field crops.

GroGuru, an innovator in precision agriculture and site-specific soil monitoring, announced today that it has launched its 100 percent wireless underground system for precision soil monitoring and management. The GroGuru Wireless Underground System, or WUGS, allows farmers of annual field crops, like corn, wheat, cotton, and soybeans, to permanently install soil sensors below the till depth.

Five Year Battery Life of Wireless Underground System is a Game Changer

The GroGuru WUGS solution has a battery life of five years, which will allow farmers to get season-to-season and beginning-of-season soil sensor data, without the need for trenching cables into the field. In addition to cable trenching, a common practice today, with soil sensors for annual crops, is to install soil sensors right after planting and to remove them prior to harvest. This removal of sensors eliminates the ability to get off-season data, and is a labor intensive and cumbersome process. An additional benefit of the GroGuru WUGS is that it improves the quality of the data and decisions made as the sensors stay in place for long periods of time, eliminating year-to-year variations in sensor placement and disturbances that occur during installation.

We have been working on the WUGS technology for over two years, and are excited to be able to launch this product with great reviews from our customer and partners, said Patrick Henry, president and CEO of GroGuru. The GroGuru WUGS solution allows us to take our successful first-generation solution that has received great acceptance in the horticulture and fruit & nut tree farming markets, to the market for high volume annual field crops.

Farmers of Annual Field Crops Value the Permanent Installation Enabled by GroGuru WUGS

Farmers agree with the value of the WUGS solution. "Permanent install enabled by the GroGuru all wireless system is very useful for growers like me who need soil sensors to plan our irrigation, said Grant Norwood, Norwood Farms, Mansfield, Tennessee. We have less obstacles to avoid during our no-till practices. We can farm right over the sensors and not have to worry about the maintenance of the sensors. And the data all throughout the year and across multiple years from the same spot is priceless. "

We are deficit irrigators in this region and stored soil moisture is critical to making a decent crop. We heavily rely on soil moisture sensors to know how much deep moisture is available to the crop but since they are removed before harvest, we often miss what happens out of season, said Tom Moore, Moore Brothers Farming, Sunray, Texas. If we cant determine how much winter moisture we have accumulated, we cant accurately manage pre-irrigation to fill the profile before planting. The ability to permanently install soil moisture sensors will greatly improve our ability to manage water and should improve our yields and sustainability.

Our goal is to be able to maximize profit on every inch of water pumped. To achieve this goal, we need the ability to accurately measure soil moisture the entire year not just during the growing season, said Harold Grall, President of the North Plains Groundwater Conservation District, Hasta Farms, Dumas, Texas. A permanent probe is the only solution, it allows us a way of monitoring winter moisture and keep from pumping water too early. With water having the biggest influence on production and being our most limiting resource it is important that we know what's in the profile at all times.

GroGurus focus is on site specific crop management, and the GroGuru WUGS solution will address the high volume annual field crops like corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, sorghum, alfalfa. GroGuru sells its solutions through a hardware enabled Software as a Service, or SaaS, business model. By providing real-time feedback about the water in the ground and soil conditions to farmers, GroGuru makes recommendations about when and how much to irrigate. The GroGuru solution is compatible with drip, sprinkler and center-pivot irrigation systems.

GroGuru WUGS Solves a Major Problem for Farmers

The problem being solved by GroGuru is complex, and the impact of overwatering or under-watering can be catastrophic to crop quality and crop yield. The right amount of irrigation varies by soil type, crop & topology, and is also dependent upon weather and crop growth cycle. GroGurus irrigation recommendations are reliable, accurate, and easy to understand. GroGuru takes the information collected about the soil conditions and adds other information and machine learning to make its irrigation recommendations.

Key GroGuru WUGS Product Features and Benefits to Farmers

Proprietary low frequency communication technology for wireless communication to buried sensors at depths of up to 20 feet

Optimized for long-life, battery powered sensing and telemetry systems

Currently supports GroGuru soil moisture, salinity, temperature sensor, but can accommodate a wide range of different sensing options

Game changing technology allows for fixed permanent sensors in row crop and center pivot fields without impacting spraying, tilling, harvest etc. by eliminating fixed above ground telemetry components

Breakthrough WUGS solution enables deployment in ALL crop types

Crop templates combined with season-to-season and off-season data

Cumulative machine learning, or ML, enables dynamic calculation/learning of Field Capacity and soil type

Low deployed cost and total cost of ownership per acre per year

Payback period for the farmer is less than one growing season

Removes the need for annual installation/removal in annual field crops

Closed loop irrigation system capability for annual crops with center pivot irrigation systems

Demonstration of the GroGuru WUGS Solution for Precision Irrigation

GroGuru will be demonstrating its WUGS solution at the Irrigation Associations Irrigation Show 2018 Exhibition and Conference in Long Beach, CA on December 3rd-7th, 2018 at Booth 1749. The GroGuru WUGS has been nominated as a finalist in the Irrigation Associations 2018 New Product Content in the Agriculture Irrigation category. GroGuru will also be demonstrating the WUGS solution in conjunction with its relationship with AgLaunch simultaneously at the Farm Journal Media's AgTech Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana on December 3rd-5th, 2018.

GroGuru WUGS Product Availability

GroGuru is currently deploying the WUGS solution with early access partners and expects general availability of the product in March 2019. For inquiries, please contact GroGuru at sales@groguru.com.

###

About GroGuru

GroGuru, Inc. is a privately held company based in San Diego, CA focused on enabling farmers to optimally use water and fertilizer with an innovative hardware-enabled Software as a Service (SaaS) solution. The GroGuru solution is analogous to giving growers X-Ray vision to the water in the ground. GroGuru is a portfolio company at the EvoNexus technology incubator, the premier technology incubator in Southern California. For more information, visit the GroGuru website at https://www.groguru.com.Im so honored to receive this award and am thrilled that SIME is creating seismic shifts in how servicing and customer service work in the mortgage industry.

HousingWire, a leading mortgage trade publication, named TMS President Ali Vafai a 2018 Vanguard winner, recognizing his revolutionary contributions that fueled the companys technological growth.

Vafai was carefully hand-selected by HousingWires editorial board based on his recent accomplishments over the last 12 months and the dynamic way they are transforming the mortgage space.

In an industry where were helping people make the greatest purchase of their life, it only made sense to develop technology that nurtures that relationship well beyond the closing table, said TMS President Ali Vafai. Im so honored to receive this award and am thrilled that SIME is creating seismic shifts in how servicing and customer service work in the mortgage industry.

Vafai spearheads TMS technology and innovation, including the multiple award-winning subservicing platform SIME  Servicing Intelligence Made Easy. SIME is a game-changing technology that is disrupting the servicing industry with its real-time customer data, tracking and proactive customer service tools. Lenders are flocking to TMS and the SIME technology so they, too, can utilize the state-of-the-art technology for their customer portfolios.

Vafai led the launch of the SIME extension for customers called the TMS Happinest Mobile app, which is powered by SIME. This is a first-of-its-kind servicing app that puts the borrower in control of their relationship  with the ability to upload and download documents, select preferred lines of communication and more.

"As the Vanguard awards program continues to grow and to be more successful, the entry point gets tighter. These winners are truly the best Vanguards in the mortgage finance industry, and they all deserve the highest honor in the space," said HousingWire Editor-in-Chief Jacob Gaffney.

About TMS

TMS (The Money Source Inc.) is a different kind of company that does business in a different kind of way. Founded in 1997, with a mission to Grow Happiness, TMS is a fast growing fintech company that provides products, technology, speed of service and a unique customer experience to borrowers, clients and team members in their pursuit of happiness. With more than 700 team members, TMS is a national lender and servicer licensed or exempt from licensing in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. For more information, visit TheMoneySource.com. NMLS# 6289.Clutch analysts identified the global leaders based on two areas; industry expertise and ability to deliver. To guarantee transparency and gather truly unbiased feedback, Clutch analysts also interview customers directly. Being ranked so highly among more than 15,000 web development companies registered on Clutch.co is a significant accolade for ImageX. As stated by Clutch, 'Global Leader is more than just a title, the accolade is reserved for companies that show a superior commitment to their clients.

ImageX CEO, Glenn Hilton said We are encouraged once again to be recognized by Clutch as a leader in our industry. We owe this attribute to our fantastic clients for sharing their experiences working with ImageX along with the due diligence and talent of our team.

Client reviews of ImageX that Clutch considered include the following:

ImageX had a high level of UX/UI expertise. We hope we can build our next site with them, too.

The website charted a 55% increase in traffic, earned praise from visitors, and won a prestigious dotCOMM award...Their flexible, practical approach was key to the project's success.

"ImageX stood out because they took the time to listen to us."

We needed a full-time partner who could hit the ground running while preserving our priorities and values. ImageX did not disappoint.

Founded in 2001, ImageX is a technology & web agency with a global reach. We've help brands across the world such as Disney, Apple, YMCA, Samsung, Adidas, Adobe and Stanford University architect complex technical solutions and create meaningful digital experiences through user experience, content strategy, stunning visual design, and ongoing digital strategy. With offices in Vancouver, Canada, Kiev, Ukraine and team members throughout North America, ImageX offers around the clock web support to brands both big and small.

To contact ImageX, email brent(at)imagexmedia.com or visit http://www.imagexmedia.com/contact

About Clutch

Clutch is a B2B research, reviews and rating platform which guides small and medium-sized businesses through the process of finding the best-fit solutions provider for their challenges and projects. Clutchs methodology compares vendors in a specific market based on market presence, services offered and verified client reviews."The products and services Integrity Data provides to organizations like ours, allow us to affordably and efficiently run our internal processes so we can spend the bulk of our time serving others.

Integrity Data, a leader in technology and services to simplify Affordable Care Act (ACA) tracking, reporting and compliance, is pleased to announce that Bi-County Services in Bluffton, Indiana is the winner of their 2019 Full ACA Reporting Services Award. In addition to supporting businesses with ACA compliance, Integrity Data is a leading developer of Microsoft Dynamics GP Payroll and HR solutions and offers a suite of financial wellness programs for employers.

This award is the latest initiative in Integrity Datas embracing of philanthropy as one if its core values. The company actively supports numerous community programs and provides matching donations and volunteer time off to encourage employees to get involved.

Bi-County Services provides services to individuals with intellectual disabilities in a home and community setting. They also offer day services which include job readiness, sheltered workshop, and educational opportunities. Recognizing that all people have dignity and worth, it is their mission to work with their staff and community members to enable individuals with disabilities to make choices and live, learn and participate meaningfully in their community.

Of the many wonderful nonprofits that applied, Bi-County Services ultimately won the award after an in depth interview and, in the final round, an Integrity Data employee vote. Heather Baumgartner, HR & Payroll Associate at Bi-County Services and an existing Integrity Data customer (using their Leave Management solution), applied for the award based on need and Integrity Datas reputation. When meeting with Marleen De Winter, Integrity Datas Marketing Director this past Giving Tuesday, she said: The products and services Integrity Data provides to organizations like ours, allow us to affordably and efficiently run our internal processes so we can spend the bulk of our time serving others. Marleen was thrilled to be given a tour of the facilities: an adapted gym, a workplace where they were folding sleeves that are sold in vending machines, classrooms for job readiness and even a relaxation room with soothing music and calming colors. All this with happy people all around loudly saying hi! She was really moved when seeing what they all do for their 200-250 consumers (recipients of their services) and Heather describing her working there as her vocation.

ACA has been such a challenge for businesses across the U.S. and nonprofits have the added challenge of limited resources and budgets. This is something our team wanted to do to show our deep appreciation for the nonprofit community and pay it forward, said Patrick Doolin, CEO of Integrity Data. We have been immersed in ACA since its inception and are honored to share our experience and solutions to help lighten the burden for a nonprofit.

Bi-County Services will receive:



Monthly variable hour tracking to determine which employees are eligible for health insurance

Year-end reporting for the IRS (Forms 1095-C and 1094-C), including e-filing the 1094-C, for 2019

Experienced advisory and support from Integrity Data ACA specialists

To learn more, visit http://www.integrity-data.com or call Integrity Data at 888-786-6162.This years sessions highlighted cutting-edge topics like the move to smart cities, convergence in the security industry, the use of artificial intelligence in video analytics and how some legacy connections leave modern access control data vulnerable to hacking.  Don Erickson, CEO, SIA

ISC East, in collaboration with Premier Sponsor the Security Industry Association (SIA), reported strong growth results at the conclusion of this years industry event in New York City. The International Security Conference & Exposition is the Northeasts largest security trade show, where close to 7,500 security and public safety professionals convened this month to meet experts from over 300 leading security brands, all while co-locating with the launch of Unmanned Security Expo New York and Infosecurity North America, Europes leading information security event.

Welcoming 85 new companies and brands and close to 1,000 more industry professionals compared to 2017, the ISC East exhibit hall bustled and featured expanded in-depth content  including new technologies and product categories, more special events/networking opportunities and a variety of all-new complimentary education through SIA Education@ISC and Unmanned Security Expo New York.

Mary Beth Shaughnessy, event director for ISC Security Events, noted, It was exciting to see such a robust expo floor and high attendance growth with our New York event this year, all while matching up to our brand theme of Comprehensive Security for a Safer, Connected World. The top attended education sessions were formed around a diverse spectrum of topics including cyber-physical integration, converged security for smart cities buildings, the impact of IT and AI on video surveillance/intelligence, critical incidents prevention and mitigation, plus drones, drone-detection, drone-regulations and policies and more. The present and future is bright for ISC East, and we are committed to providing great solutions and education for this community.

Over the past four years, the ISC East show floor has grown by over 60 percent in square footage and has come to be known as the highlight of the year, stated by Linda Esposito, security specialist at the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The extensive variety of vendors and professionalism of the ISC staff make it one of the best shows out there.

In addition, Alex Pachikov of Sunflower Labs, a first-time exhibitor at Unmanned Security Expo, commented, [This] was the perfect venue for us to introduce the Sunflower Labs drone-based security system. We had the perfect audience and fantastic exposure to potential customers, installation partners and system integrators.

Additionally, while Unmanned Security Expo presented 15+ sessions dedicated to the in-depth issues, policies and opportunities for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), the SIA Education@ISC East program offered 25+ complimentary education courses and highlighted two distinct keynote speakers for the first time at ISC East  Philip Halpin, senior vice president & head of global security for Brown Brothers Harriman, and James A. Gagliano, retired FBI supervisory special agent, CNN law enforcement analyst and adjunct assistant professor at St. Johns University.

SIA Education@ISC East 2018 was a great success, with hundreds of conference attendees participating in our education sessions, engaging keynotes and hands-on workshops, said Don Erickson, CEO of SIA. This years sessions highlighted cutting-edge topics like the move to smart cities, convergence in the security industry, the use of artificial intelligence in video analytics and how some legacy connections leave modern access control data vulnerable to hacking.

With so much learning and knowledge-sharing happening on the show floor, security professionals still found time to participate and engage at the numerous special events ISC East had to offer, including the first-ever SIA Women in Security Forum breakfast, the new Mission 500 hygiene kit building, the ever-popular ASTORS Homeland Security Awards, ISC Easts Featured Product Showcase featuring some of the most innovative product technologies, a high-profile celebrity appearance of former New York Yankees player Tino Martinez (sponsored by Rapid Response, a SIA member), the signature ISC East Grand Opening Ceremony (sponsored by Speco Technologies, a SIA member), the Crack the Tap cocktail reception (sponsored by Autel Robotics) and so much more.

As ISC East comes to a close, the ISC Security Events portfolio continues to provide comprehensive security for a safer, connected World through ISC West, Unmanned Security Expo and Connected Security Expo taking place April 9-12, 2019 (SIA Education@ISC: April 9-11 | Exhibit Hall: April 10-12) in Las Vegas, Nevada. To pre-register to attend, visit iscwest.com/register. ISCs International events take place in Mexico City, Mexico (Expo Seguridad) in May and Sao Paulo, Brazil (ISC Brasil) in June. And, coming to Dallas, Texas, in July 2019, Cyber:Secured Forum, in partnership with SIA and PSA Security Network.

Save the date for ISC East 2019, taking place Nov. 20-21, 2019, at continued home base New York Citys Jacob K. Javits Center. Visit isceast.com/register to sign up and be the first to know when registration is open.

For more information about ISC Security Events, visit iscevents.com.

About ISC East

ISC East is the northeast United States security industrys premier convention for new products, solutions and technologies. Each year, ISC East hosts international and domestic security product manufacturer companies and security professionals at New Yorks Javits Center. SIA is the sole sponsor of the ISC East event. The event is also proudly supported by the New York State Electronic Security Association, the New Jersey Electronic Security Association, the Connecticut Alarm & Systems Integrators Association and the Pennsylvania Burglar & Fire Alarm Association.

About Unmanned Security Expo

Unmanned Security Expo (USE) New York is an all-new, trade-only event focused on UAS and UGV technology and hardware. Restricted to qualified professionals sourcing or providing autonomous solutions for commercial and government security and safety use and drone detection/counter-system applications. Powered by ISC Security Events, USE New York will bring together security industry professionals who are interested in evaluating unmanned technology products and solutions and learning more about ongoing Federal Aviation Administration adaptations to UAV regulations and policies.

About Reed Exhibitions

Reed Exhibitions is the worlds leading events organizer, with over 500 events in over 30 countries. In 2016, Reed brought together over seven million active event participants from around the world generating billions of dollars in business. Today, Reed events are held throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and Africa and organized by 41 fully staffed offices. Reed Exhibitions serves 43 industry sectors with trade and consumer events and is part of RELX Group, a world leading provider of professional information solutions. For more information, visit reedexpo.com.

About SIA

SIA (securityindustry.org) is the leading trade association for global security solution providers, with over 900 innovative member companies representing thousands of security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels, creating open industry standards that enable integration, advancing industry professionalism through education and training, opening global market opportunities and collaborating with other like-minded organizations. As a proud sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities. SIA also enhances the position of its members in the security marketplace through SIA Government Summit, which brings together private industry with government decision makers, and Securing New Ground, the security industrys top executive conference for peer-to-peer networking.John and Mark Cronin, co-founders of John's Crazy Socks John Cronin says, We on a mission to spread happiness."

Johns Crazy Socks will celebrate its second anniversary on December 9, 2018. In typical fashion, the company will use the occasion to Give Back and Spread Happiness. The company will also hold an Anniversary Open House/Pop Up Shop at its Melville office/warehouse on Saturday, December 8th.

Were excited to share our birthday with our customers, says co-founder John Cronin.

Johns Crazy Socks was founded by John Cronin, a young man with Down syndrome, and his dad, Mark X. Cronin. They have a simple mission: spreading happiness. And they have reasons to celebrate:



They employ people of differing abilities so 18 of their 35 permanent employees have a differing ability and 23 of their 27 seasonal workers have a differing ability.

They give back and have raised over $190,000 for their charity partners.

In their second year, they will earn $5 million in revenue.

Because John and Mark took a start-up and now ship across the country and to over 80 different countries.

Because their effort to show whats possible has taken John and Mark on speaking engagements across the country and into Canada and Mexico.

Because the U.S. State Department has invited John and Mark to join the State Department Speakers Bureau to represent the U.S. overseas.

Because in advocating for people with differing abilities, John and Mark have testified before Congress twice this year.

Because they have given over 100 school tours this year.

To celebrate their anniversary, Johns Crazy Socks will donate $1 for every order placed on their anniversary weekend  Saturday and Sunday, December 8 and 9th  to the Special Olympics. This is in addition to the regular Giving Back Program.

John Cronin says, We on a mission to spread happiness and what better way to make people happy than to invite them to a party. The anniversary Open House/Pop-Up Shop is the one time of year that Johns Crazy Socks throws open the doors and invites everyone inside.

The Open House/Pop Up Shop will begin at 10 a.m. and continue until 3 p.m. It will take place at 40 Republic Road in Melville, New York, 11747. The party will feature warehouse tours, a visit from Santa, music, crafts, cookies and lots of fun.

The Huntington, New York duo opened the online store on December 9, 2016 with a mission to spread happiness. I love crazy socks, they are colorful and fun, says John. They let me be me. My catch phrase is socks, socks, and more socks. The more people that have my socks, the more happiness we can spread.

Mark Cronin explains, We have built a social enterprise: we have both a social and a business mission and they are indivisible. The elder Cronin explains that they have built the business on four pillars.

1. Inspiration and Hope: We want to show the world what is possible when you give someone a chance. We hire people with differing abilities and want to show the world what they can do. So far, we have created 35 permanent jobs and 18 are held by people with differing abilities.

2. Giving Back: We donate 5 percent of our earnings to the Special Olympics and have Charity and Awareness Socks that raise money for our charity partners like the National Down Syndrome Society, the Autism Society of America and the Williams Syndrome Association. So far, we have raised over $190,000 for our charity partners.

3. Socks You Can Love: We have over 2,300 different socks making Johns Crazy Socks the largest sock store in the world in terms of choice. We have a Sock of the Month Club, gift boxes and bags and we offer custom socks. Our customers love it: we have over 14,000 online reviews and 96 percent are five-star reviews.

4. Making It Personal: Every package gets a thank you note from John and some candy.

You can learn more about Johns Crazy Socks by visiting our website and our Facebook page. You can also contact us via email at service(at)johnscrazysocks(dot)com.JW Player today announced it ranked 340th on Deloittes Technology Fast 500, a ranking of the 500 fastest growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences and energy tech companies in North America. JW Player grew 236 percent during this period.

Over the past year JW Player has continued to see tremendous growth by partnering with leading media companies and brands to help them drive growth and loyalty through digital video, said David Otten, Co-Founder & CEO of JW Player. Being named to the Fast 500 for a second consecutive year is a tremendous honor and highlights the great work by the team across the globe, and the need for best-in-class digital video infrastructure in this incredibly competitive media environment.

Congratulations to the Deloitte 2018 Technology Fast 500 winners on this impressive achievement, said Sandra Shirai, vice chairman, Deloitte LLP, and U.S. technology, media and telecommunications leader. These companies are innovators who have converted their disruptive ideas into products, services and experiences that can captivate new customers and drive remarkable growth.

Software, which accounts for nearly two of every three companies on the list, continues to produce some of the most exciting technologies of the 21st century, including innovations in artificial intelligence, predictive analytics and robotics, said Mohana Dissanayake, partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP, and Industry Leader for technology, media and telecommunications, within Deloittes audit and assurance practice. This years ranking demonstrates what is likely a national phenomenon, where many companies from all parts of America are transforming the way we do business by combining breakthrough research and development, entrepreneurship and rapid growth.

About Deloittes 2018 Technology Fast 500

Deloittes Technology Fast 500 provides a ranking of the fastest growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences and energy tech companies  both public and private  in North America. Technology Fast 500 award winners are selected based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2014 to 2017.

In order to be eligible for Technology Fast 500 recognition, companies must own proprietary intellectual property or technology that is sold to customers in products that contribute to a majority of the company's operating revenues. Companies must have base-year operating revenues of at least $50,000 USD, and current-year operating revenues of at least $5 million USD. Additionally, companies must be in business for a minimum of four years and be headquartered within North America.

About JW Player:

JW Player pioneered video on the web more than a decade ago and continues to innovate as the world's largest network-independent platform for video delivery and intelligence. Companies including Fox, VICE, Business Insider, and Univision, in addition to hundreds of thousands of creators of all types and sizes, rely on JW Player to deliver and monetize their content across all devices. JW Player's massive global footprint of more than 2 billion unique devices creates a powerful data graph of unique consumer insights and generates billions of incremental video views. The company is headquartered in New York, with offices in London and Eindhoven. For more information, visit http://www.jwplayer.com.

About Deloitte

Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee (DTTL), its network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL (also referred to as Deloitte Global) does not provide services to clients. In the United States, Deloitte refers to one or more of the US member firms of DTTL, their related entities that operate using the Deloitte name in the United States and their respective affiliates. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting. Please see http://www.deloitte.com/about to learn more about our global network of member firms.Mercy College announced it is pursuing plans to expand its Manhattan Campus to more than 95,000 square feet over the next two years. The concept was developed with SL Green Realty Corporation to include more academic space, common multi-use zones, a new dormitory and enhanced course offerings.

We are delighted that SL Greens acquiring of the property afforded us the opportunity to explore with them ways to better serve our students and stay in the same premier location in Herald Square in the heart of New York City, said Mercy College President Tim Hall. The enhanced MercyManhattan opening in fall 2019 will have a prominent entrance on 34th Street and customized space for academic programs, a welcoming student commons space with an internet cafe meets living room feel, and by 2020 a 130-bed dormitory of suites will be added.

This is a very exciting time for Mercy College and its students, faculty and staff, said Bruce Haber, Chairman of the Mercy College Board of Trustees. The Board and I are confident that this expansion will strengthen Mercys foundation in Manhattan for generations of future students.

To support this expansion, the College has developed a new marketing campaign that will rebrand the Manhattan Campus as MercyManhattan. Advertisements with the tagline, The Ultimate Location to Reach Your Destination will be featured across multiple platforms including billboards, subways and buses, newsstands, phone kiosks, internet radio as well as on social media. In addition, a new microsite (mm.mercy.edu) has been created to provide updated information aimed at increasing awareness and driving enrollment.

Dr. Brian Johnson, Vice President of the MercyManhattan Campus, stated, This is an exciting new era for this campus and the surrounding community. MercyManhattan at Herald Square will truly be the ultimate location for students to reach their destinations.

MercyManhattan at Herald Square is within a few blocks of no fewer than 15 subway lines and a short walk to Penn Station/LIRR and Grand Central/Metro-North lines. The addition of the option to live at the campus opens new recruitment opportunities to the College for students seeking a New York City residential college experience.

Mercy first began offering classes at the Herald Square location in 2002. In addition to MercyManhattan, the College also offers students the convenience to take courses online and at campuses located in Dobbs Ferry, the Bronx and Yorktown Heights.

For information on the Manhattan expansion please contact Brian Johnson, VP of MercyManhattan at bjohnson36@mercy.edu or at 212-615-3316.

For information about attending MercyManhattan or to book a campus visit, please contact Kayla Noonan, Director of Admissions, at knoonan1@mercy.edu or at 212-615-3382.

"It is a privilege to extend our Midwestern values and generosity by providing an opportunity for the entire region to chip in and help wildfire victims in their time of need.

Fenton-based Mid America Logistics, one of the fastest growing technology-enabled logistics companies in North America, is teaming up with Wise F&I, one of the nations largest providers of automotive asset protection services, to give much-needed support to those affected by the California wildfires. They will be collecting donations from Fri., December 7 through Sun., December 9.

Both companies invite those in the Greater St. Louis region and the Metro East to donate non-perishable food, non-alcoholic beverages, dry goods, and healthcare products to provide relief for the wildfire survivors. Mid America Logistics and Wise F&I aim to deliver a minimum of two truckloads of these goods to the affected areas of Northern California.

In addition, Mid America Logistics and Wise F&I will be donating one cent per mile for every shipment driven by Mid America Logistics during the week of December 7. The monetary donations will be given to a charity selected by the employees of both organizations to provide desperately needed basic supplies and medical care for survivors. Mid America Logistics will also offer free transportation for any existing client if they donate 12 pallets or more of donations toward the relief efforts.

Leading an organization that has a large network serving California, it is our duty to support the region in this time of need, said Mark Kummer, president of Mid America Logistics. We appreciate everyones support and efforts, and we also want to thank the first responders and volunteers who have worked onsite to rescue people from the fires and provide aid to those in need.

Our company has a large dealer and agent base in California, said Matt Croak, president and CEO of Wise F&I. This event has had direct impacts to Wise F&I stakeholders. There are many ties between businesses in the St. Louis area and California. It is a privilege to extend our Midwestern values and generosity by providing an opportunity for the entire region to chip in and help wildfire victims in their time of need.

Mid America Logistics trailers are slated to depart St. Louis on Tues., December 11 and arrive at the affected areas appointed by the two companies by the following weekend.

Those within the Gateway Region willing to donate can drop off supplies at Mid America Logistics and Wise F&Is corporate offices at 900 South Highway Drive on the eastbound side of Interstate 44 in Fenton. Donors should look for a Mid America Logistics trailer and team members from both organizations when bringing in their donations. Personnel will be onsite from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fri., December 7, Sat., December 8, and Sun., December 9. All donations should be sealed goods.

About Mid America Logistics

Mid America Logistics is the fastest-growing transportation firm based in the Gateway Region. With offices in St. Louis, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Jacksonville, Phoenix, Northwest Arkansas, and Guadalajara, Mexico, Mid America has made its mark in the fields of trucking, logistics, and technology. Employing more than 120 employees across six states, the company offers full truckload, less-than-truckload, and transportation technology services to clients in the food production, retail, CPG, industrial, and agricultural industries. The company was recently recognized as a Top Workplace by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and as one of the fastest-growing private companies in the Gateway region by the St. Louis Business Journal.

About Wise F&I

Wise F&I has a long history of success in the automotive finance and insurance space, initially specializing in Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP). The company expanded over the years to now include a full array of F&I products including tire and wheel protection, appearance care service contracts, theft deterrent systems, vehicle service contracts, key replacement, and other voluntary protection products for auto, RV, powersport, and marine. Wise F&I branded products are marketed through independent agents to automotive dealers. Additionally, Wise F&I supports private label programs and strategic partnerships with automotive lenders, OEMs, and finance companies on both a national and regional basis. All products are fully compliant and underwritten by an A-rated or better insurance carrier.

With more than 30 years in the industry, Wise F&Is experience allows the delivery of complete contract origination solutions supported by efficient and accurate claims and cancellation processing. With a focus on building partnerships and a priority on customer service, Wise F&I is the F&I provider of choice.

For more information, please contact Mid America Logistics at (636) 226-4770 or visit their website at http://www.midamlogistics.com.John Holifield Help us give a child in need a new winter coat and you will be helping boost their self-confidence, peer acceptance, school attendance and overall wellness.

Holifield will be collecting funds from December 1-31 for Operation Warm as part of the NALAs collective cause marketing program, which encourages businesses across the country to collect at the same time to make a bigger impact. The mission of Operation Warm is to provide brand-new winter coats to children in need.

To donate to Operation Warm through Holifield and The Land Brokers Real Estate, visit https://give.operationwarm.org/campaign/john-holifield-the-land-brokers-for-operation-warm-2018-19/c212820.

Help us give a child in need a new winter coat and you will be helping boost their self-confidence, peer acceptance, school attendance and overall wellness, said Holifield.

Operation Warm works year-round to create colorful winter coats made just for kids. Every $20 provides a high-quality, brand-new winter coat to a child who needs it most. Since 1998, Operation Warm has inspired hope by manufacturing and distributing winter coats to more than 2 million children in need throughout the U.S. By actually manufacturing the coats it distributes, Operation Warm is able to efficiently control logistics, costs and inventory.

Holifield specializes in homes, ranch property and recreational properties. He is a buyers agent and listing agent, and a member of the Montana Association of REALTORS.

About Operation Warm

Operation Warm believes a new winter coat can tell a child, Youre worth it, and help build self-esteem through pride in ownership. They also believe it can inspire happiness and warmth within a child, while also increasing peer acceptance both inside and outside of school. For more information, please call 1-800-730-WARM (9276), or visit http://www.operationwarm.org.

About John Holifield, Land Brokers Real Estate

John Holifield serves Belgrade, Big Sky, Big Timber, Bozeman, Emigrant, Gallatin Gateway, Greycliff, Livingston, Mcleod, Melville, and Springdale. The Land Brokers Real Estate is located at 127 McLeod Street, Big Timber, MT 59011. For more information, please call (406) 932-6892, or visit http://johnhrealestate.com/.

For media inquiries, please call the NALA at 805.650.6121, ext. 361.

For the 10th year in a row, Mount Sinai Health Systems Mitral Valve Repair Center received honors at the Annual eHealthcare Leadership Awards, announced at the 2018 Healthcare Internet Conference in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Repair Centers website, http://www.mitralvalverepair.org, received 10 Platinum Awards, the highest level of recognition possible, and the Mitral Foundation website, http://www.mitralfoundation.org, received two Platinum Awards.

The awards included Best Care/Disease Management website, Best Healthcare Content, and Best Overall Internet Site. Links to the complete list can be found below.

This is the second time the Mitral Valve Repair Center has received Platinum eHealthcare Leadership Awards recognition. It follows the Center websites designation as a 2018 Webby Honoree for Best Health Website in The Webby Awards earlier this year, and its receipt of two Gold W3 Awards last month.

This is a remarkable achievement and brings great honor to our Mitral Valve Repair Center and Mount Sinai, said David L. Reich, MD, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Mount Sinai Hospital.

Our goal every year is to provide an educational internet resource that will serve our patients and their families as they learn about mitral valve disease and treatment options. To be judged by our peers as among the best health care websites is very rewarding, said Gideon Sims, Senior Director of Digital Marketing at Mount Sinai Heart, who launched and has managed the Mitral Valve Repair Center website since 2006.

The eHealthcare Leadership Awards program recognizes the very best websites and digital communications efforts of a wide range of health care organizations. Winners of platinum, gold, silver, and distinction awards represented 17 industry classifications, from hospitals and health systems to pharmaceutical firms and online health companies. A total of 109 health care digital marketing experts judged the entries. Judges looked at how websites and other digital communications compared with others in the organizations classification. They also reviewed entries based on a proprietary multi-point standard of digital excellence.

Hailed as the Internets highest honor by The New York Times, The Webby Awards, presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, is the leading international awards organization honoring excellence on the Internet.

The W3 Awards are sanctioned and judged by the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts, an invitation-only body consisting of top-tier professionals from a "Who's Who" of acclaimed media, advertising, and marketing firms.

Complete List of eHealthcare Leadership Awards:

http://www.ehealthcareawards.com/2018-winners/

Webby Awards:

https://www.webbyawards.com/winners/2018/websites/general/health/mitral-valve-repair-center/

W3 Awards: http://www.w3award.com/winners/gallery/?award=1&event=1023&search=mount%20sinai

About the Mount Sinai Health System

The Mount Sinai Health System is New York City's largest integrated delivery system encompassing seven hospital campuses, a leading medical school, and a vast network of ambulatory practices throughout the greater New York region. Mount Sinai's vision is to produce the safest care, the highest quality, the highest satisfaction, the best access and the best value of any health system in the nation. The System includes approximately 6,600 primary and specialty care physicians; 11 joint-venture ambulatory surgery centers; more than 140 ambulatory practices throughout the five boroughs of New York City, Westchester, Long Island, and Florida; and 31 affiliated community health centers. The Icahn School of Medicine is one of three medical schools that have earned distinction by multiple indicators: ranked in the top 20 by U.S. News & World Report's "Best Medical Schools", aligned with a U.S. News & World Report's "Honor Roll" Hospital, No. 13 in the nation for National Institutes of Health funding, and among the top 10 most innovative research institutions as ranked by the journal Nature in its Nature Innovation Index. This reflects a special level of excellence in education, clinical practice, and research. The Mount Sinai Hospital is ranked No. 18 on U.S. News & World Report's"Honor Roll" of top U.S. hospitals; it is one of the nation's top 20 hospitals in Cardiology/Heart Surgery, Gastroenterology/GI Surgery, Geriatrics, Nephrology, and Neurology/Neurosurgery, and in the top 50 in six other specialties in the 2018-2019 "Best Hospitals" issue. Mount Sinai's Kravis Children's Hospital also is ranked nationally in five out of ten pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World Report. The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai is ranked 11th nationally for Ophthalmology and 44th for Ear, Nose, and Throat, while Mount Sinai Beth Israel, Mount Sinai St. Luke's and Mount Sinai West are ranked regionally. For more information, visit https://www.mountsinai.org or find Mount Sinai on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.National Inbound Marketing Agency Mojo Media Labs Acquires SpinWeb Integrating the SpinWeb team into the Mojo family is an instant client benefit, both in terms of technical capabilities and culture.

The national digital marketing agency Mojo Media Labs announced a major acquisition Tuesday of the acclaimed Indianapolis-based website design and digital marketing agency, SpinWeb.

SpinWeb immediately brings some of the countrys most capable website design and development talent to Mojo Media Labs, increasing the scale in which the agency can undertake complex projects for its clientele.

Mojo Media Labs, the 2017 American Marketing Association DFW Marketer of the Year and a HubSpot Diamond Partner, now continues its aggressive M&A growth strategy. A leader in the inbound marketing space, and now at the forefront of web design and development following the SpinWeb acquisition, the agency has its sights set to expand its capabilities in marketing and sales technology to provide more benefits for current and future clients.

Integrating the SpinWeb team into the Mojo family is an instant client benefit, both in terms of technical capabilities and culture, Mojo Media Labs CEO Mike Rose said. They are the best web design and development talent in the country, and they live and breathe a work culture that is part of what makes Mojo special. This is an exciting opportunity for Mojo employees, Mojo clients, and Mojo partners.

For Mojo Media Labs, the combination of elite marketing and web design/development opens the doors to new possibilities. As SpinWeb becomes more integrated, both Mojo Media Labs clients and current SpinWeb clients can realize the benefits from the combined specializations of the teams.

Our shared vision of what the company can become and how we can get it there made me excited to join forces with Mojo Media Labs, SpinWeb CEO Michael Reynolds said. We'll bring our 20+ years of website design/development and digital marketing experience to enhance Mojo's already strong digital marketing team.

SpinWeb, a HubSpot Gold Partner, will now become Mojo Media Labs with offices in Indianapolis. Rose said there are other opportunities to add even more Mojo Media Labs locations and offices in the future as the team and agency offerings grow, particularly in a direction that expands the companys potential in sales services.

Mojo has an attractive M&A strategic plan to help like-minded agencies live out their dreams, Rose said. We have a very enticing offering to agency owners and their employees who are either struggling to grow their agencies or have found themselves as a lone wolf who wants a bigger team from which to collaborate while not losing their autonomy.

About Mojo Media Labs

A leading B2B digital marketing agency and certified HubSpot Diamond Partner and Terminus account-based advertising partner, Mojo Media Labs serves clients in the healthcare, manufacturing, and technology spaces via inbound marketing, account based marketing, website development, and sales enablement. Mojo Media Labs also manages the Dallas North and Chicago Northside Hubspot User Groups and Flip My Funnel. To learn more about the company, visit its website at http://www.mojomedialabs.com. Press Contact: Nikole Rose, President Mojo Media Labs can be reached at 972-815-1081 or nikole(at)mojomedialabs.com.InstallAware Software, the technology leader in software installation, repackaging, and virtualization solutions for application producers and enterprises, is launching InstallAware X9 today. InstallAware is the most flexible platform for traditional and agile development teams creating Windows and Azure software installers, as well as MSIX, APPX, Microsoft App-V Virtualization, and agentless/royalty-free InstallAware Virtualization packages.

InstallAware X9 is the first and only installer to ship with full-stack native support for the exciting new Cellular PC ARM64 Platform, powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 835/850 processors. Private, native ARM32/ARM64 file system folders and registry keys are accessible both at build time from the IDE and at runtime from the setup engine. Native setup captures/application repackaging with PackageAware on ARM64 complete InstallAwares roundup for Desktop Windows 10 powered always-on, Cellular PCs.

InstallAware X9 also includes a brand-new MSIX Builder, helping software developers target Microsofts next generation packaging format with all of their existing solutions and projects. Thanks to InstallAwares integration with all versions of Microsoft Visual Studio, a single-click on the Visual Studio toolbar is all it takes to produce a MSIX package from any Visual Studio solution/project, bridging all existing Win32, Win64, and .NET apps to the future through the Desktop Bridge to the Microsoft Windows Store.

InstallAware X9 also includes an updated, 32-bit compatible compression engine, which shaves 10%-50% off already-compressed application runtimes, frameworks, and databases. For example, Microsofts latest .NET Framework 4.7.2 compresses 13% smaller, and MS SQL Server Express 2016 with SP1 compresses 38% smaller with InstallAware X9, above and over their already-compressed, Microsoft original sizes  for the exact same setup payload and binary data, simply by using InstallAware to deploy the payloads!

InstallAware X9 also refreshes its database technology, supporting all versions of Microsoft SQL Server through 2017, all versions of MySQL through 8.x, and all versions of Oracle through 18c. No client software is required on client systems for database connections, simplifying the installation process and dramatically boosting the rate of successful installations by eliminating all points of potential failure, in the best tradition of InstallAware  the sole source for setups which always work, the first time, everywhere.

About InstallAware Software

InstallAware Software, founded in 2003, is the leading Cloud Infrastructure Company with its laser sharp focus on bullet-proof enterprise software deployment. InstallAware has been recognized by multiple awards coming from Microsoft, SDTimes "Leader of the Software Development lever", Visual Studio Magazine Reader's Choice, ComponentSource, WindowsITPro, among other recognition. InstallAware X9 is available in a free edition for all Visual Studio users and paid editions with prices starting at $329. For a fully functional 30-day trial and more information, visit http://www.installaware.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jason Strathmore

InstallAware Software

336 Guerrero

San Francisco, CA 94103

415 358 4094

jase(at)installaware.com

http://www.installaware.com/

All product and company names herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.Season of Mist by Mac Donald Dixon Trapped on an island, what was slavery like in the early 1800s in St. Lucia? This historical tale describes the blood, sweat, and tears that created this modern-day tropical paradise. " - Robert Fletcher, CEO of Strategic Book Publishing and Rights Agency

Against impossible odds, a ragtag army of Black, Mulatto, and poor Frenchmen band together to fight for freedom over elite soldiers from Britain and Napoleons grand army on the tiny Caribbean Island of Saint Lucia.

This compelling historical novel begins during the French Revolution in the late 1700s, when the islands were home to slaves from across the seas. Although starving and in rags, this mismatched band of revolutionaries was led by a Black woman named Madlienne Des Voeux.

"Season of Mist" salutes the triumph of the human spirit over adversity, when this impossible, improbable poor mans army defeats the superior forces financed by Royalist, British, and French planters.

Forty years later, Madlienne is an old woman who is finally able to confront the escaped opposition leader whose troops killed her family. Will justice finally be served?

About the Author: Born and raised on Saint Lucia, Mac Donald Dixon is now writing full-time since retiring in 2013 as a trade consultant with the islands government. As an amateur historian, I have always wanted to see my history through the eyes of my people, and not the colonizers or oppressors. Season of Mist is one such offering. He hopes to dispel preconceived notions of history and historical events as told by our colonizers, and try to see them in a new light. Millions were taken from their homes in Africa, India, China, and Ireland, and brought to these islands against their will. Their descendants know their stories and must tell the world the truth.

Trapped on an island, what was slavery like in the early 1800s in St. Lucia? This historical tale describes the blood, sweat, and tears that created this modern-day tropical paradise. We are proud to announce the novels publication, said Robert Fletcher, CEO of Strategic Book Publishing and Rights Agency.

SEASON OF MIST: VENDETTAS BITTERSWEET (ISBN: 978-1-948858-10-6) is now available for $16.50 and can be ordered through the publishers website:

http://www.sbprabooks.com/MacDonaldDixon or at Amazon.com or Barnesandnoble.com.

WHOLESALERS: This book is distributed by Ingram Books and other wholesale distributors. Contact your representative with the ISBN for purchase. Wholesale purchase for retailers, universities, libraries, and other organizations is also available through the publisher; please email bookorder(at)sbpra.net.With its focus on competency and ethics, licensure is an essential safeguard for the public, and the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying supports the National Transportation Safety Board recommendations as necessary steps for public protection.

The release of the National Transportation Safety Boards report, Natural Gas Distribution System Project Development and Review, highlights the important protections that licensed professional engineers (P.E.s) provide the U.S. public. In this report, NTSB issued several recommendations concerning professional engineering licensure requirements. With its focus on competency and ethics, licensure is an essential safeguard for the public, and the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) supports the NTSB recommendations as necessary steps for public protection.

The safety recommendation report was issued on November 14, 2018, in response to a series of explosions and fires on September 13, 2018, in Merrimack Valley, Massachusetts. These explosions and fires followed the release of high-pressure natural gas into a low-pressure gas distribution system. They resulted in damage to 131 structures, including the destruction of at least five homes. One individual was killed, and at least 28 others were injured.

Among other findings, the NTSB report concludes that the gas company would probably have identified the omission of regulator-sensing linesthereby preventing the error that led to this accidentif the company had performed a comprehensive constructability review that required all departments to review the project plans and had a P.E. approve, or seal, the plans. In sealing such plans, a professional engineer takes responsibility for their accuracy and completeness. The report notes that the company field engineer was not a licensed P.E. and that neither state law nor company policy required a licensed P.E. to develop or review engineering plans for public utilities.

In relation to professional engineering licensure, the NTSB report specifically recommends that Massachusetts eliminate the P.E. license exemption for public utility work and require a P.E. seal on engineering drawings for public utility projects. It further recommends that the gas company revise its engineering plan review process to ensure that a P.E. seals plans before work begins. The NTSB recommendations concerning P.E. licensure requirements are changes that would protect the public, and NCEES hopes that all the proper steps are taken to ensure that these recommendations are addressed.

Massachusetts is not alone in allowing license exemptions for certain groups of engineers. Each U.S. state and territory sets its own licensing laws, and the majority have some type of exemption, including those for engineers working in industrial, manufacturing, public utility, and transportation settings. Some federal agencies also have P.E. license exemptions for federal engineering projects. NCEES encourages other U.S. states, as well as federal agencies, to review this report and consider its recommendations for their own jurisdictions to avoid similar tragedies.

Professional licensing has one purpose: public protection. P.E.s must meet education and experience requirements and pass the required exams to establish that they can practice engineering without endangering the public. To maintain a license, a P.E. must adhere to a strict code of conduct, with the primary charge being to practice the profession in a manner that protects the health, safety, and welfare of the public. A professional engineer who violates this obligationeither through incompetence or unethical actionsis subject to losing his or her license.

While we cannot go back and prevent what has already happened, we can work to ensure that proper steps are taken to prevent similar accidents. Public utilities is one of the many areas in which professional engineers can be called on to ensure that business activities adequately protect public welfare. As an organization committed to advancing licensure for engineers and surveyors, NCEES and its member licensing boards from all U.S. states and territories continue to focus on the fundamental goal of safeguarding the public. NCEES commends NTSB for taking this position to protect the U.S. public from incompetent or unethical practices.

James J. Purcell, P.E.

NCEES President

B. David Cox

NCEES Chief Executive Officer

ABOUT NCEES

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying is a nonprofit organization made up of engineering and surveying licensing boards from all U.S. states, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Since its founding in 1920, NCEES has been committed to advancing licensure for engineers and surveyors in order to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of the U.S. public.

NCEES helps its member licensing boards carry out their duties to regulate the professions of engineering and surveying. It develops best-practice models for state licensure laws and regulations and promotes uniformity among the states. It develops and administers the exams used for engineering and surveying licensure throughout the country. It also provides services to help licensed engineers and surveyors practice their professions in other U.S. states and territories. For more information, please visit ncees.org.In Defense of Christians (IDC), the nation's leading advocacy organization for Christians in the Middle East, is celebrating this years accomplishments and all those who support our mission at the Fifth Annual Solidarity Dinner taking place at The Hamilton this Wednesday, December 5 at 7:00 PM.

This years Solidarity Dinner will bring together Members of Congress, civil society advocates, and faith leaders from across the country. We look forward to highlighting these achievements and honoring our Congressional Champions in this cause.

Director of the Office of Management and Budget and member of President Donald J. Trumps cabinet Mick Mulvaney will deliver the keynote address. This years dinner will also feature a panel discussion with Representatives Jeff Fortenberry, Glen Grothman, and Chris Smith, where they will discuss efforts to support human rights and protection for minorities in Iraq. Other speakers include Representatives Randy Hultgren, Mark Meadows, Jackie Speier, French Hill, and Brad Sherman.

The dinner seeks to further the public discourse on a range of current issues related to the Middle East. Members of Congress will lead the evening's conversations about various challenges facing the region. Join us and also get an exclusive preview into our 2019 advocacy agenda for the next Congress.

"2018 marked a year of legislative success for IDC and our mission. In November alone, Congress unanimously passed the Iraq and Syria Genocide Relief and Accountability Act; the House of Representatives passed the Global Fragility and Violence Reduction Act; and the Senate voted with strong bipartisan support to advance a resolution seeking to withdraw the United States from the Yemen conflict, among other achievements," stated IDC President Toufic Baaklini.

We look forward to continuing our work to support the human rights of minorities across the Middle East along with our Congressional Champions and partners across the U.S. government.

###Blackbridge brings more than 14 years of employer marketing experience to the network. The award-winning agency is owner-managed, allowing them to be agile, independent and well-resourced which leads to a higher standard of service  a hallmark of the networks member agencies.

Were both delighted and proud to be joining the ranks of OneAgent. Having worked alongside many of its members previously, we believe that we will be an excellent fit in terms of both expertise and culture, said Tony Andrews, founder and managing director of Blackbridge. Well be particularly focused on adding value to OneAgent clients through our exceptional levels of project management, creative thinking, employer brand development and digital innovation. Any client engaging with Blackbridge can be assured of a warm welcome and levels of dedication that is truly second to none.

With offices throughout the world, this addition of Blackbridge will expand OneAgents global grasp and create a wider understanding of the recruitment realm in the European market. OneAgent anticipates that this partnership will expand their network and enhance their ability to communicate and achieve success with clients globally.

We are very excited to welcome Blackbridge Communications to our network, we have worked on multiple global projects with them in the past and have achieved mutual success. With the addition of Blackbridge Communications, we not only expand our reach globally, but we are also now more equipped to serve our clients with an expanded worldwide footprint, said Curtis Rogers, OneAgent co-founder and chairman.

About Blackbridge Communications

Blackbridge Communications is one of the largest independent employer marketing companies in the UK. With 40 people working in our London office, we have the resources to meet the requirements of large organisations. Key capabilities include digital, creative, research and planning, social media and project management. Clients include KPMG, Aviva, Lloyds of London, BNP Paribas and Rolls-Royce. Over the years, we have been recognised at numerous award ceremonies, including the RAD Awards, the CIPD Awards, the Digi Awards, the Recruiter Awards, the FIRM Awards and the TARGETjobs Awards.

About OneAgent

Formed in 2007, OneAgent is the worlds largest network of independent employer branding and talent attraction and retention communications agencies. The network is made up of agencies throughout the globe including Australia, Brazil, China, Denmark, France, Hong Kong, Russia, Singapore, Sweden, United Kingdom, and the United States.Park NX-Wafer - Fully automated AFM solution for defect imaging and analysis that improves defect review productivity by up to 1,000% and the only wafer fab AFM with automatic defect review Atomic Force Microscopes manufactured by Park Systems are rapidly becoming the next-generation in-line measurement solution due to the patented non destructive design for nanostructure measurement and easy adaptation to hybrid metrology.

Park Systems, world leading manufacturer of Atomic Force Microscopes was recently awarded one of the top 20 Most Promising Semiconductor Technology Solution Providers of 2018 by CIOReview Magazine. This recognition is given to companies that are at the forefront of providing semiconductor technology solutions and impacting the marketplace, states Jeevan George, Managing Editor of CIOReview Park Systems is honored for creating semiconductor metrology solutions with a focused effort on customer needs and performance requirements.

Park Systems inline semiconductor fabrication process demonstrates innovation and excellence that was developed thru collaboration with major semiconductor manufacturers as well as with imec, a global research center for nanoelectronics headquartered in Belgium. Atomic Force Microscopes manufactured by Park Systems are rapidly becoming the next-generation in-line measurement solution due to the patented non destructive design for nanostructure measurement and easy adaptation to hybrid metrology, states Tae-Gon Kim, Senior researcher at in-line inspection and metrology group imec Belgium.

Semiconductor companies world-wide have partnered with Park Systems to fulfill their nanoscale microscopy needs including the top five manufacturers due to the revolutionary AFM systems such as Park NX-Wafer, designed for bare wafer manufacturing, fully automates the automatic defect review process and increases production throughput by an astounding 1,000%.

Park continues to make rapid progress with industrial automated AFMs for Semiconductor manufacturing, developing solutions to complement existing optical metrologies in process development, production, and defect analysis along with new applications for measuring high resolution 3D AFM metrology to vastly improve production yield and device performance.

About Park Systems

Park Systems is a world-leading manufacturer of atomic force microscopy (AFM) systems with a complete range of products for researchers and industry engineers in chemistry, materials, physics, life sciences, and semiconductor and data storage industries. Parks products are used by more than a thousand institutions and corporations worldwide. Parks AFM provides the highest data accuracy at nanoscale resolution, superior productivity, and the lowest operating cost, thanks to its unique technology and innovative engineering. Park Systems, Inc. is headquartered in Santa Clara, California with its global manufacturing, and R&D headquarters in Korea. Parks products are sold and supported worldwide with regional headquarters in the US, Korea, Japan, Singapore, Germany, China, India and Mexico and distribution partners throughout Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Visit http://www.parksystems.com for more information or contact us at inquiry@parksystems.com.Marvin Nash, Strategy Specialist for the Beneficial-Use Water Alliance (BUWA) and Jim Magagna, Executive Vice-President of the Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WYSGA), jointly announced their partnership to facilitate opportunities for ranchers throughout Wyoming to receive beneficial-use water for their agricultural needs.

At BUWA, we are bringing all the stakeholders together to take industrial by-product water and transform it into beneficial-use water to make sure the ranchers and landowners have useful water for their own ranchs needs. Partnering with WYSGA allows us to help their members more effectively, says Marvin Nash.

We recognize how essential sufficient water is to Wyoming agriculture. We welcome the partnership with BUWA to make sure that water can be put to use on ranches, instead of disposing of the water, says Jim Magagna.

BUWAs sister company, Encore Green, LLC uses the patent-pending Conservation By-Design methodology to take industry by-production water, primarily from oil wells, and clean up the water to match the soils makeup on the ranchers own land. The methodology has been proved and is built upon the need to scientifically test the makeup of both the surrounding soil and the by-product water across multiple data points. Once tested, the water cleaning plan is devised and the cleaning begins. Once cleaned, the water is re-tested for effectiveness, and then applied to the land.

There are very legitimate concerns about what happens to our environment. We hold that the land itself should be in charge of what happens to it. The one person that will make sure the land is protected is actually the rancher. Thats why any plan about transforming the by-product water needs the rancher in the center of it, adds Marvin Nash.

Established in 1872, the Wyoming Stock Growers Association serves the Wyoming cattle industry by protecting its economic, legislative, regulatory, judicial, environmental, customs, and cultural interests. You can learn more at WYSGA.org.

Beneficial-Use Water Alliance brings the stakeholders  the oil industry, the regulators, the ranchers, the environmentalists, and landowners  together to transform the billions of gallons of by-product water into beneficial-use water for agriculture and conservation. You can learn more at BeneficialUseWaterAlliance.com.Still, Fitch said even with the recent acceleration in out-migration, it is a long-established phenomenon that has not prevented the states economy from continuing a long pattern of overall growth. The report said one research study that compiled migration data going to 1900 said the state has seen virtually uninterrupted out-migration since the mid-1920s with rates in the late 1970s and early 1980s comparable to what Illinois is currently seeing.The images are as beautiful as they are heartbreaking, providing viewers with only a small glimpse of what each person has lost while serving as a poignant reminder that, as Jim asserts, "We must take responsibility for the aftermath of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as at home."

Photographer Jim Lommasson Presents Exploring the Treasures of Refugees on Dec. 16 at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum

The December 16 Sunday Lecture Series at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum will feature photographer Jim Lommasson speaking about the power of art for social change and the evolution of the exhibit What We Carried: Fragments and Memories from Iraq and Syria.

His 50-minute talk starts at 1:30 p.m. in the Museums Stryker Theater. The traveling exhibit has been impactful to numerous communities that have hosted it across the country, in part because he has extended his process to supplement the main exhibit with additional pieces added from local refugees.

The exhibit explores the stories of refugees fleeing the Iraq War through the objects they brought with them to the United States. Lommasson will discuss his personal experiences meeting with refugees and asking them to reveal the stories behind their precious items. His images of these pieces coupled with narratives written by the owners explaining the objects significance are what makes this project so unique. The resulting images are as beautiful as they are heartbreaking, providing viewers with only a small glimpse of what each person has lost while serving as a poignant reminder that, as Jim asserts, "We must take responsibility for the aftermath of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as at home."

Over four million Iraqis have fled their homes since the American invasion in 2003, and over 140,000 have been admitted to the US. The refugees did not leave to get a better job or because of a natural disaster; they left because of a brutal dictator and industrial warfare that has virtually destroyed their country. Many Iraqis sought refuge in Syria, only to find another dangerous situation. The long journey to the US can take months, sometimes years, and includes refugee camps, piles of documents, and sometimes a few bribes.

What We Carried is a collaborative photographic storytelling project aimed at presenting the experiences of these refugees and creating a platform for discussion. As a collection of photographs and writing, it speaks to displacement, resilience, liminality, xenophobia, rendition, human interdependence, freedom, and memory. Lommasson worked with Iraqi and Syrian refugee communities in Boston, Portland, Dearborn, and Chicago before coming to Kalamazoo.

Jim Lommasson is a freelance photographer and author living in Portland, Oregon. What We Carried: Fragments from Iraq and Syria, was funded by the Arab American National Museum, the Oregon Regional Arts Council, the Oregon Arts Commission, and Ruth Ann Brown.

The Kalamazoo Valley Museum is operated by Kalamazoo Valley Community College and is governed by its Board of Trustees.

Media Contact

Bill McElhone

Kalamazoo Valley Museum Director

269-373-7990, wgouldmcelh(at)kvcc(dot)eduThe law firm of Politis & Matovina, P.A. is proud to announce that December of 2018 will mark its 25th year serving the people of Daytona Beach and Palm Coast. Founded in 1993, the firm focuses on personal injury cases, including accidents, catastrophic injury, wrongful death, premises liability, bad faith insurance, and workers compensation.

Since opening in 1993, Politis & Matovina, P.A. has recovered over $200 million in settlements for clients across Central Florida. The firm offers services in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, Russian, Greek, and English, and has offices in Flager County, Orange City, Ormond Beach, and Port Orange. In addition to fighting for clients in the courtroom, Politis & Matovina, P.A. has become an active part of the community, routinely participating in local fundraisers and charities. Events and organizations that Politis & Matovina, P.A. has been involved include the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, the Port Orange Christmas Parade, the Childrens Hospital Book Drive, the Jewish Federation School Supplies Backpack Drive, the Tour de Force - 9/11 Memorial Ride, the Childhood Cancer Foundation, the St. Demetrios Greek Festival, the Christian Surfers Annual Spring Fling, the Special Olympics, and Care Packages to Iraq.

Attorneys at the firm are native Floridians who believe deeply in community involvement and giving back to the people of Central Florida. They wish to thank everyone in their community, their clients in particular, for helping Politis & Matovina, P.A. become a household name over the past 25 years, and for routinely trusting the firm to fight for justice on their behalf.

To learn more about Politis & Matovina, P.A., visit https://www.thejusticeattorneys.com/about-us/.Rapid Legal has added the Los Angeles Superior Court (LASC) as one of the 19 California eFiling court systems it serves. The companys implementation mirrors the LASCs mandatory December 3, 2018, deadline for Civil Limited cases and its pending January 2, 2019, deadline for Civil Unlimited cases.

Rapid Legals CEO, David Nill, shared We are extremely pleased to be one of the first attorney service providers to recognize how the digital transformation of court systems across the state is enabling cases to be handled with far greater efficiency by the courts and related parties. With over five years of experience as a certified eFiling Service Provider across 18 other California counties, we are well positioned to help our clients comply with all aspects of the LASCs newly mandated eFiling requirements.

To submit an LASC eFiling with Rapid Legal, customers can simply go to their Rapid Legal customer portal and select Los Angeles from the drop-down menu. All other aspects of the submission process remain the same. For those not currently registered with Rapid Legal, a secure account can be established in minutes on the companys website.

Rapid Legals VP of Operations, Henry Negrete, said, We recognize the legal community will be dealing with a learning curve due to the Los Angeles Superior Courts new eFiling procedures that are rolling out over a very short period. Hundreds of our customers have already been working with us during the Courts voluntarily eFiling period, which began on November 13, to ensure their offices are fully prepared for this major process change.

Rapid Legals prominence as an eFiling provider across California is bolstered by its experience in working with Law Firms and Courts to develop a solution that offers an easy-to-use portal with 24/7 court filing availability, knowledgeable phone support, and a hassle-free satisfaction guarantee.

In addition to Los Angeles, some of the other 19 California counties where Rapid Legal is eFiling certified include Fresno, Orange, San Francisco, and Santa Clara. The company also offers a full range of physical court filing and service of process services across the state.

About Rapid Legal

Rapid Legal is a leading court filing and process serving provider in the legal services industry. Utilizing its innovative LegalConnect Software as a Service (SaaS) platform, Rapid Legal enables law firms and legal service professionals to operate a more efficient business, reduce their risk profile, and deliver a higher level of service to their clients. Legal documents delivered by Rapid Legal are executed timely and accurately, and are always backed by a no-hassle satisfaction guarantee. Rapid Legal is headquartered in Chino Hills (Los Angeles), California, and has been serving the legal community for over two decades.

To learn more, please visit RapidLegal.com or call us at 800.366.5445. Follow Rapid Legal on Twitter (@RapidLegal) and like us on Facebook.

Media Contact:

John Vernagus

909.664.9575

jvernagus(at)rapidlegal(dot)comDonnie Jarreau, a real estate developer with several fitness clubs in his portfolio, and Troy Archer, who also spent decades operating and developing multiple fitness clubs, have been business partners in Baton Rouge for 25 years. The duo created a concept called Spectrum Fitness, and grew it to 10 units before selling it in 2009. They wanted to stay in fitness, so to find the next big thing in fitness, they attended the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) Convention & Trade Show in Los Angeles in 2017.

Enter Edward EK Navan, who has worked for multiple national fitness brands. Navan was developing a plan to open a heart-monitored, multi-platform group fitness concept. He met Jarreau and Archer at IHRSA, and the rest, they say, is history. In March of 2017, the trio created Regymen Fitness, a high-energy, boutique fitness studio with three platforms: Burn, focusing on cardio and weights; Box, focusing on power punching and core work; and Build, focusing on compound movements and explosive cardio.

Regymen Fitness opened its first company-owned location in Pensacola in March 2018, followed by two more in Baton Rouge in March and June. In November, the brands first franchised location will open in Austin, and the first prototype location will open in Baton Rouge. All franchise locations will adhere to the prototype model, which is built for the three platforms, but provides franchise owners the flexibility to add on additional platforms, and create different programming within each platform. Two additional corporate locations are slated to open In Baton Rouge in early 2019.

Regymen Fitness is unlike anything that exists in franchising right now. As fitness trends lean more toward boutique and niche offerings, now is the perfect time for Regymen Fitness to emerge as the challenger brand, said Regymen Fitness President Tom OKeefe, who has worked in franchising for the bulk of his career, including stints at Anytime Fitness, Smoothie King and Ruths Chris. With the constantly evolving programming, even within the three platforms, there is so much variety within the model that is capturing the attention of consumers, and weve built the infrastructure to ready the brand for major franchise growth.

Over the past 18 months, the team has been laser-focused on building out the corporate team to prepare for major growth through franchising, hiring OKeefe as President, and Nick Binnings, formerly of Another Broken Egg Cafe, as Director of Franchise Development.

We are already getting a lot of organic interest in the brand. Regymen Fitness is a natural fit for anyone in the fitness business or that is interested in fitness, said OKeefe. We want to make sure we grow this brand with the right partners.

Binning notes that Regymen Fitness is looking for qualified franchise partners with industry experience and the capital to do a minimum of three studios in Houston, Dallas, Nashville, Raleigh-Durham, Charlotte, Atlanta, Orlando and Tampa, to start. The initial investment range for a Regymen Fitness is $425,000 to $870,500. The brand will offer 20 percent off the franchise fee for military veterans. The current franchise fee is $29,500, which will increase to $39,500 on April 1, 2019.

To ensure that franchise owners open their doors with a baseline of memberships already in place, Regymen Fitness requires franchisees to spend $30,000 on a pre-sale marketing campaign, which includes a $50 discount on monthly memberships.

Our goal is for franchisees to get 350-400 memberships signed before their doors open, which creates a lot of revenue on day one, said OKeefe.

ABOUT REGYMEN FITNESS

Regymen Fitness is a high-energy, boutique fitness studio with three platforms: Burn, focusing on cardio and weights; Box, focusing on power punching and core work; and Build, focusing on compound movements and explosive cardio. Classes track heart rate and use analytics to help members set goals while giving them real-time access to the progress of their workout. It was created by fitness industry experts Edward Navan and Donnie Jarreau in 2015 and launched franchising opportunities in 2018. To learn more about franchising opportunities, visit https://www.regymenfitness.com/franchising/.

Comprehensive solutions for complex problems

Riverbend Solutions Group, Inc. (RSG), a leading middle-market operations and financial advisory firm, today announced its strategic alliance with TMV Business Group, LLC (TMVBG) an experienced advisory and brokerage firm servicing start-up companies, small businesses and middle market enterprises. The new firm will be named TMV  A Riverbend Company (TMV-Riverbend) and will be based in Austin, TX.

This transaction will further expand RSGs unique, multi-disciplined offering to middle-market private businesses. According to John ONeill, Managing Director at RSG: The new partnership with TMV Business Group will help us grow into a new and unique market place with a very diverse economy. Gaining this market presence will help maintain innovation and connect us to a growing and dynamic community.

About TMV  A Riverbend Company:

TMV  A Riverbend Company is an Austin-based firm focused on advisory, brokerage and capital introduction for companies in Central and South Texas. Its senior team has over 100 years of combined experience in general management, finance, technology, sales and marketing, entrepreneurship, alternative investment management, capital raising and mergers and acquisitions.

About Riverbend Solutions Group:

RSG solves the most difficult challenges faced by middle market businesses, including growth-related issues, financial/operational under-performance, distress, and bankruptcy. RSGs leadership has extensive experience guiding, advising or investing in over 350 businesses, across virtually every industry sector, through difficult and challenging times. RSG is industry agnostic and provides customized solutions to middle market business owners, lenders and investors to solve their complex problems. RSG provides seamless management of the entire life-cycle of companies facing special situations with depth and breadth of business and advisory expertise in the following areas: Performance Improvement, Investment Banking, Crisis Management, and Special Situation Investing.

To learn more about Riverbend Solutions Group, please visit: http://www.riverbendsolutionsgroup.com

To learn more about TMV  A Riverbend Company, please visit http://www.tmv-riverbend.com

To learn more about NTA  A Riverbend Company, please visit: http://www.nta-riverbend.comPeople with disabilities are being left out of the economy at a staggering rate, said Steven Krotonsky, Chief Operating Officer for SourceAmerica. These new reports shine a light on some of the reasons why and on some of the ways we can address this important issue."

The United Nations designates December 3 each year as International Day of Persons with Disabilities; this years theme is Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality. SourceAmerica, a leading source of job opportunities and choices for individuals with disabilities, published two reports today that build on this theme. In addition to including important insights into trends shaping the future of employment and societal inclusion for people with disabilities, these reports challenge employers and policymakers to think differently about how to make employment more accessible.

Worldwide, nearly one in six are persons with disabilities, a group disproportionately underrepresented in the economy. It is estimated that countries forgo up to 7 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) due to the exclusion of persons with disabilities. In the United States, an estimated $150 billion is left out of the economy due to people with disabilities being unemployed and not paying taxes.

People with disabilities are being left out of the economy at a staggering rate, said Steven Krotonsky, Chief Operating Officer for SourceAmerica. These new reports shine a light on some of the reasons why and on some of the ways we can address this important issue."

The Future of Work and Inclusion of People with Disabilities report is the latest in a series from SourceAmericas Social Enterprises of the Future initiative, a collaborative effort to shape the future of inclusion of people with disabilities in the United States labor market. This report summarizes a panel discussion held at SourceAmericas national conference between representatives of The Aspen Institute Future of Work Initiative, The Global Initiative for Inclusive Information and Communication Technologies (G3ict), Special Olympics International and the United States International Council on Disabilities (USICD), moderated by Frances West, founder of FrancesWestCo.

These reports are the result of significant collaboration between the disability community and public and private sector representatives, Krotonsky said. We believe this type of collaboration is essential to creating employment choices and opportunities for individuals with disabilities and to building an inclusive economy that works for everyone.

The Journey of Employment: WorkUnified Talks report stems from a partnership between Special Olympics and SourceAmerica that focuses on increased societal inclusion of people with disabilities. This report summarizes a series of talks between athletes and employers at the Special Olympics 2018 USA Games designed to raise awareness, promote shared learning and encourage higher levels of workplace inclusion. The WorkUnified talks featured people with disabilities relating their individual journeys of employment, and representatives of Amazon, Bank of America, Special Olympics, Global Connections to Employment, and SourceAmericas Pathways to Careers program were on hand to address the challenges and successes they have encountered in their efforts to more fully incorporate workforce inclusion into their corporate culture.

Key findings and recommendations from The Future of Work and Inclusion of People with Disabilities and The Journey of Employment: WorkUnified Talks reports, as well as earlier reports from the Social Enterprises of the Future initiative can be found at https://www.sourceamerica.org/future-of-work.

About SourceAmerica:

Established in 1974, SourceAmerica creates job opportunities for a skilled and dedicated workforce of people with significant disabilities. SourceAmerica is the vital link between the federal government and private sector organizations that procure the products and services provided by this exceptional workforce via a network of more than 750 community-based nonprofits. Headquartered in Vienna, Virginia, SourceAmerica provides its nonprofit agency network with business development, contract management, legislative and regulatory assistance, communications and public relations materials, information technology support, engineering and technical assistance, and extensive professional training needed for successful nonprofit management. Visit SourceAmerica.org to learn more, or follow us on Facebook (@SourceAmerica), Twitter (@SourceAmericaUS) and LinkedIn (@SourceAmerica).The all-new 2019 BMW X7, which is slated to arrive at Pacific BMW in March 2019, has a cavernous interior, excellent performance, and impressive off-road capabilities.

BMW is adding an exciting new vehicle to its X Model lineup of highly-capable crossovers and SUVS: the 2019 BMW X7, which is the largest SUV that BMW has ever built. It boasts a cavernous interior, high-level utility, off-road capabilities and a wealth of premium features. The all-new 2019 BMW X7 is expected to arrive in March 2019 at Pacific BMW, a dealership in Glendale, California.

Buyers of the 2019 BMW X7 have a choice of two robust engine options. The X7 xDrive40i comes equipped with the 3.0L six-cylinder BMW TwinPower Turbo engine, which produces 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. For a more powerful driving experience, BMW X7 buyers can get the X7 xDrive50i. It features the 4.4L V8 BMW TwinPower Turbo engine, which churns out a mighty 479 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, enabling the SUV to go from zero to 60 mph in only 5.2 seconds.

When properly equipped, the BMW X7 can tow up to 7,500 pounds. For off-road adventures or driving in adverse weather conditions, the BMW X7 comes standard with the xDrive all-wheel drive system, which delivers excellent traction. Also, the BMW X7 offers many state-of-the-art driving assistance technologies, including Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Pedestrian Warning with City Collision Mitigation and Frontal Collision Warning.

The BMW X7 has a beautiful exterior design, with the large BMW kidney grille, slim twin headlights, large windows, flowing roofline and high ground clearance. The beautiful design continues into the cabin, with a modernistic instrument panel, high-quality materials and expansive surfaces. The BMW X7 comes standard with three rows of seating, with the ability to comfortably seat up to seven passengers.

For more information about the all-new 2019 BMW X7, luxury SUV shoppers in the San Fernando Valley can head to Pacific BMWs website at http://www.pacificbmw.com, call (866) 542-3864 or visit in person at 800 South Brand Boulevard in Glendale.John Kearney, CEO of Advanced Training Systems, discusses the effects of the trucker shortage and how it impacts prices for grocery shoppers. They dont really have any choice, says John Kearney, CEO, Advanced Training Systems LLC. The cost of shipping just keeps going up. A major factor in this is the driver shortage. There just arent enough people in the long-haul trucking workforce to get all these loads delivered.

Major food giants Mondelez, Hershey Co., Nestle SA, Unilever, and Coca-Cola have recently announced they will need to raise prices in 2019 to offset higher freight and ingredient costs.[1] They dont really have any choice, says John Kearney, CEO, Advanced Training Systems LLC. The cost of shipping just keeps going up. Kearney, whose company is a leading designer and manufacturer of virtual simulators for driver training, among other applications, adds, A major factor in this is the driver shortage. There just arent enough people in the long-haul trucking workforce to get all these loads delivered.

The scope of the problem has been apparent for more than a year. In early January, moving a truckload of refrigerated food from Washington State to New York was priced at about $8,450. Two weeks later, the same truck driving the same route was priced at close to $10,000, an 18% increase. And according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, during the same period the cost of shipping food eastward from California had increased nearly 25% over the previous year.[2]

To some extent, notes Kearney, the U.S. transportation infrastructure is wrestling with a self-created problem. As U.S. economic growth has revved up in recent years, railroads and truck fleets have not expanded capacity to keep pacea decision applauded by Wall Street. Between early 2017 and 2018, shares of CSX Corp., Norfolk Southern, and Union Pacific rose an average of 22% as hey cut headcount, locomotives, and rail cars and lengthened trains to lower expenses and raise margins.[3]

Meanwhile, food manufacturers including Dean Foods, Tyson Foods, Hormel Foods, Kellogg, and US Foods cited rising transportation costs this year as a drain on earnings. At the beginning of 2018, according to online truck freight marketplace and industry analyst DAT Solutions, only one truck was available for every 12 loads that needed to be moved. By August, spot truck rates had increased 20% from a year previous to an average of $2.14 per mile, the highetaverage on record for the month. And in the second quarter, there was a record 296,311 driver vacancies.[4]

In its annual survey, the American Transportation Research Institute found that the number-one concern for motor carriers and the trucking industry in general is the lack of qualified drivers to carry the nations freight. According to the ATRI study, the industry needs to focus its efforts on twoaeas, retaining experienced drivers andmost important of allattracting a steady stream of younger ones.[5]

A key element in attracting younger candidates, notes Kearney, is the growing use of simulator training as an adjunct to traditional behind-the-wheel (BTW) instruction. Just as in military and airline pilot training, the use of a simulator can teach the proper response to events too rare or too dangerous to be part of BTW instructionin the case of a truck driver, a blowout of the steering tire or an unexpected patch of black ice.

Trucking, says Kearney, is a well-paid occupation in urgent need of a new generation of well-trained and motivated drivers. Our mission at ATS is to bring together an opportunity and a rising workforce and, through technology and in partnership with our fleet and driving-school clients, help ensure a safe and prosperous future for American commerce and the drivers that serve it.

About Advanced Training Systems LLC:

Advanced Training Systems (ATS) is a high-tech simulator technology and engineering firm that has revolutionized the design and manufacture of advanced training systems to improve training and create safer drivers. ATS, the holder of multiple patents in high-tech training simulation, has as its mission to provide this cutting edge adaptive training to all involved in the transportation industry at an affordable cost, resulting in safer drivers/operators. For more information, visit http://www.atstrainingsystems.comThe CNA Diagnostics method fills a vital need currently unmet by any other available diagnostic technology...this fast and precise measurement of biomarker changes at the patient level will be mandated and a virtual game-changer

CNA Diagnostics Inc. today announced the signing of an agreement with Wayne State University to lead the U.S. clinical trials in support of FDA approval for its human sepsis diagnostic test, known as CNA Rapid Sepsis Dx. In proof-of-concept studies, CNA Rapid Sepsis Dx has proven capable of detecting bacterial and fungal human sepsis in advance of clinical symptoms, using blood serum and processed on industry standard RT-PCR equipment for turn-around of results in approximately four hours on site at a hospital or medical clinic. Wayne State University will provide access to tissue samples from a broad demographic of patients and a range of high-risk groups, as well as lead the U.S. clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy of CNA Rapid Sepsis Dx. In coordination with the companys co-founder and Chief Science Officer Dr. Christoph Sensen, the team will be led by Dr. Robert Sherwin, F.A.C.E.P., F.A.A.E.M., the clinical research director for Sinai Grace Department of Emergency Medicine, who also serves as the Chief Science Officer of ResearchOne at Wayne State University in Detroit. Dr. Sherwin has extensive clinical research experience in the fields of sepsis, resuscitation, emergency medicine, shock, hyperbaric medicine and hemodynamic monitoring, including prior work on diagnostics for human sepsis.

The CNA Diagnostics method fills a vital need currently unmet by any other available diagnostic technology. It provides the opportunity to identify developing infections or sepsis in any emergency department or hospital patient days before there is clinical evidence or complications become irreversible. In the shift from a fee for service to a value-based reimbursement model, this fast and precise measurement of biomarker changes at the patient level will be mandated and a virtual game-changer. The CNA Diagnostics platform, through its unique approach of measuring the hosts specific response to a pathogen, epitomizes this concept of precision medicine and will represent an indisputable value for hospitals and healthcare facilities, stated Dr. Robert Sherwin.

We are pleased to begin working with Wayne State, its network of hospital partners, and Dr. Sherwin as we undertake FDA and EMA regulatory approvals in support of commercialization, said David Gordon, CEO of CNA Diagnostics Inc.. The nexus of the research clinic, diagnostic lab services and working hospital will be important for the stakeholders to really grasp how early detection of sepsis can help save lives. Based on pre-submission comments from the FDA, the clinical trials design and results will be used as validation studies in support of FDA approval as a medical device. Sample collection is expected to begin in early 2019, followed by completion of the clinical trials and submission of results to the FDA by the end of 2019.

About CNA Diagnostics:

CNA Diagnostics Inc. is a molecular diagnostics company focused on the development of diagnostic tests for the early detection of the presence of disease in humans and animals (mammalians). Test development is focused on disease stages prior to the onset of observable clinical symptoms, which currently cannot be detected reliably with existing commercially available methods. The company commercializes its tests primarily by licensing its technology to strategic partners for manufacturing, sales, distribution and service to end users in regions around the world.

About Wayne State University:

Wayne State University is a public research university located in Detroit. Founded in 1868, WSU consists of 13 schools and colleges offering over more than 350 degree programs to more than 27,000 graduate and undergraduate students. Wayne State University is Michigan's third-largest university, one of the 100 largest universities in the United States, and ranked in the top 50 American public universities for research expenditures. The Wayne State University School of Medicine (SOM) trains the next generation of physicians. The school offers master's, Ph.D. and M.D./Ph.D. programs in 14 areas of basic science and public health to about 400 students annually. The school's research emphasizes neurosciences, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, perinatology, cancer, cardiovascular disease including diabetes and obesity, and psychiatry and addiction research. As many as 500 researchers and staff work out of the Integrative Biosciences Center, a 207,000-square-foot facility that was opened in October 2015 at a cost of $92 million.One of the least interesting things you can do in your life is attend a swearing-in ceremony for Cook Countys elected leaders  unless it was this morning. So much spectacle! There was Toni Preckwinkle being sworn in for a third term as County Board president, not saying a word about her bid for Chicago mayor. And then there was former Mayor Richard M. Daley, making a rare public appearance, with brother and mayoral hopeful Bill Daley in attendance as their brother John Daley was sworn in to another term as county commissioner at the downtown city-county building. Read Gregory Pratts report here.Speaking at the Annual Dinner of the Chartered Institute of Bankers Dr Addison said they took this decision due to the prevalent levels of related party transactions of the banks that were resolved.

This has informed our decision to operationalize, in 2019, the directive on financial holding companies which seeks to facilitate effective consolidated supervision of regulated financial institutions and ensure that holding companies and affiliates of banks and SDIs do not take advantage of banks and SDIs within such groups at the expense of depositors and other creditors.

He added that the BoG must finalise the directive on corporate governance by the end of the year since banks have duly submitted their feedback and input.

On the Minimum Capital Requirement deadline, Dr Addison said the banks are working tirelessly to meet the regulation. He added that this will see them transition into the full implementation of the Basel II/III pillar 1 capital measurement.

Commenting on the Non Performing Loans, he said he was hopeful that despite the marginal decline, the issue should normalise with the completion of the draft Credit Reporting Regulations and the draft Borrowers and Lenders Bill.The reduction of GH0.05 per litre commenced on Sunday, December 2, 2018,

The Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana, Ebenezer Faulkner, in a statement, revealed that, the reduction is in line with changing market trends.

According to the Managing Director, the new prices for Shell FuelSave Diesel cost GH5.050 per litre and Shell FuelSave Super cost GH5.020 per litre.

He further added that, the company was committed to providing motorists with more value than expected through high quality fuel and other products and services at the best prices.

Adding that, At Shell, customers remain the focus of our business and we will continue to provide them with quality fuels designed to last longer at no extra cost.Preckwinkle and Mendoza are both seen as among the front-runners in the crowded field to succeed Mayor Rahm Emanuel. Eyebrows went up at City Hall when Mendoza didnt turn in more names, and it would be a shocking new twist in the mayoral campaign if she got bounced off the ballot for failing to meet the minimum signature requirement.READ ALSO: undefined

While a few people on Twitter thought it was just an innocent joke, Feminist activist and co-host of GhOnes Celebrity Fanzone Akosua Hanson has called out the comedian for what she described as an insensitive joke.

According to her, jokes of this nature are part of a much bigger issue; the systematic thoughts that people have about women and young girls.

READ ALSO: undefined

It starts from childhood she said. (Men) see a little girl developing breasts and think she is ripe.and it is a common thing, you have uncles that say thats my wife to girls who are under the age of 10. So, its not just a joke gone bad, but a systematic thinking and cultural problem we have.

Comedian Waris has apologized to Sarkodies family and the public for the insensitive joke, explaining that his intention was not to sexual the underage girl.Chebelina Mukomuga was photographed recently in a school uniform, sitting in a classroom with other old folks who had registered for adult education.

Communication Officer at Lewa Wildlife, Kenya, Wanjiku Kinuthia is reported as saying the aged woman estimated being born in 1923, and if that is anything to go by, then she is indeed 95 years old.

ece-auto-gen

Chebelinas case is not unprecedented though. In May this year, a 96-year-old Guadalupe Palacios from Mexico enrolled in high school, with the hope to graduate on her 100birthday.

In that same month, a 98-year-old North Carolina woman, who had raised 12 children and given them sufficient education chose to enrol herself at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia where she graduated with associate degree in interdisciplinary studies.The woman, Ellen Ofori, a mother of four whose husband is even out of the country on a business trip, was allegedly caught with a friend, one Maame Afua Wendy, also a married woman, fondling each other in a guest house at Mamponteng, a town to the south of Kumasi on November 3 this year.

According to a security man who works at the said guest house, pleading anonymity, the two women usually visit the place at weekends and rent a room which they always shared but nobody suspected anything sinister. He further narrated that on Saturday November 3, 2018 however, a mob of young men led by a cousin of Mrs. Oforis husband stormed the guest house soon after the women came there and forcefully demanded the spare keys to their room, overpowered the receptionist and took the keys.

According to eyewitnesses, when the room was opened the women were caught apparently kissing and fondling each other passionately even for a long time before they realised that they had been caught much to the chagrin of the incensed mob who pounced on them and beat them up mercilessly.

The security man who was on duty managed to call for back-up and his colleagues, some of who were not even on duty arrived within a few minutes to rescue the women and drive away the irate young men by threatening to call the Police.

About one hour after we made sure the guys were completely gone and it was a bit dark, the women asked that we allow them to go home. We even wanted to escort them to their houses but they said they preferred to go quietly on their own. So we allowed them hoping for the best, the security man disclosed.

Meanwhile, the assailants especially the family of her husband are daily expressing their anger in chants at her fathers house almost every day and are demanding to see her and beat her up. According to the husbands cousin, they had suspected their brothers wife for a long time but there was no concrete evidence so they planned to spy and follow her movements especially when her husband was out of town. That was what led them to catch the woman and her friend at the guest house where lo and behold they were proven right.

True to the words of the security man at the guest house, Ellen Oforis family confirmed that she has run away and nobody knows her whereabouts, not even her husband who has travelled.The officer identified as Bruno Chigozie Opara apparently has come to the realisation that people especially ladies are admiring him, so he keeps posting more photos of himself on social media to tease them.

The officer is undoubtedly handsome and always feeds his followers with photos of himself in the gym where he exposes his muscular physique and six packs, a feature ladies hold in high esteem.

One other outstanding habit that marvels people has to do with how neatly he dresses and carries himself. Some say his appearance is what the Nigerian police force requires to be respectable.

Opara who reportedly hails from the southeastern part of Nigeria is now becoming a celebrity police officer due to the huge following he is getting.

Amazingly, some young women are already dreaming of what they would use the police officer for if they got hold of her.

Below are some reactions to Officer Bruno Chigozie Oparas bewitching look.It is reported that the suspected criminals had attempted to break into the said house through the main entrance, but failed because the gate was too hard for them to either unlock or vandalise.

They then resorted to entering the house by breaking through the ceiling of an adjoining house and made away with one of the electronic gadgets.

They then left a note, saying We are coming back o !!! Good luck.

The matter is said to have been reported to the Obasanjo Farm Police Division, Ota and officers were dispatched to mount surveillance and embark on constant patrols in the area.

Owner of the house in question, Dare Ogunyombo confirmed the incident in an interview with The Nation, saying: the suspected robbers visited my residence while I was away from home with my wife and children. They ransacked the house and scattered everywhere.

I noticed that they fruitlessly tried to force their way into my apartment through the main door to the building. They however broke the ceiling of the next flat and entered my apartment through the roof, while they carted away a satellite television decoder in the living room.Mubarak said that his decision to ride on a bicycle was in protest of the untold hardships the Akufo-Addo government has inflicted on Ghanaians.

He said he decided to ride the bike to highlight the sufferings that many Ghanaians were going through, citing the increasing cost of fuel which had increased the costs of goods and services and laying of workers as some of the sufferings that people were experiencing.

READ ALSO: Majority Leader blasts Ras Mubarak for riding bicycle to Parliament

And here are his reasons for not adhering to his stance:

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I had intelligence that some people had planned to crash me with a tipper truck while riding and turn round to accuse me of committing a mistake leading to the accident. So based on intelligence and security advice Ive decided to stop riding it to Parliament largely because some people want to harm me, and Ill take precautionary measure to avoid that happening", Mubarak said on Okay FM in Accra.Speaking on the relevance of the 'Christmas Tree Lighting' event to Kempinski Hotel, Manish Nambiar, the General Manager said: "This is a tradition why have created over the last three years and it is our way of saying thank you to all the various people who have helped in our success stories in the year."

"We also use this event to get the community together and also spread the message of Christmas which is happiness", he added.

READ ALSO: How Ghana is promoting tourism through music

According to Mr. Nambiar, Christmas is an event for families, therefore, the also event was also a call to families to patronise the hotel during the yuletide.

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Included among the dignitaries were Dr. Lawrence Tetteh, founder and President of the Worldwide Miracle Outreach, the Kaneshie Mantse; Nii Nikoi Asheley I as well as the Bubuashie Mantse; Nii Ashie Kumowuo II.The publication would be done on government online portal www.ghana.gov.gh, and other social media handles as well as made it available to the Ghana Publishing Company for the hard copy for purchase.

Again, copies of the report would also be made available to Parliament and subsequently disseminated across key stakeholders nationwide.

READ MORE: Supreme Court throws out suit against creation of Oti Region

Addressing journalists on Sunday, he said the process for the creation of new regions was initiated in accordance with Article 5 of the 1992 constitution, which does not provide for the publication of the Report of the Commission of Inquiry.

However, due to the President's firm views on good governance and transparency, he called for the publication of the Report.

He said President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo stated that "the dictates of good governance and transparency in the public space of a functioning democracy should lead me to authorize, prior to the planned referenda by the Electoral Commission on December 27, 2018, the publication of the Report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Creation of New Regions".

Meanwhile, Minister for Reorganisation and Development, Dan Botwe has disclosed that the government will use GHc 20m as a seed capital in the creation of the new regions.

He said the money has already been apportioned in the 2019 budget."Even if the tariff war recedes, the broader economic and political environment has shifted against giving China the benefit of the doubt as it develops, and there is no turning back the clock," said Claire Reade, a former U.S. trade negotiator now with Arnold & Porter, via email. "The major global issues created by China's size combined with its distortive industrial policies are now out in the open."Baba Mohammed, also referred to as Botor, is reported to have stolen a Techno mobile phone belonging to one Bernard Anarfi.

READ ALSO: KATH to investigate alleged contaminated bloodKATH to investigate alleged contaminated blood

The GNA reports that the accused pleaded guilty to the offence when he first appeared in court and he was convicted on his own plea but sentence was deferred to Friday.

Briefing the court, Police Chief Inspector Godfred Asiedu Bampoe, said on November 16, Anarfi, who rides a Royal Motorbike, had gone to drop a pillion rider at Gailo-Way near Old Fadama.

He said Anarfi parked his motorbike and decided to assist the pillion rider with some of her goods to her house but on returning, spotted the convict and one other person, now at large, standing by his motor bike.

He explained that Anarfi had a call but before he could receive it, the convict and his accomplice rushed and snatched the mobile phone from him.

Chief Inspector Bampoe said the complainant followed the convict to a distance and pleaded that his phone be given him back, but Mohammed rather threatened to stab him.

Anarfi returned to where he had parked his Royal motor bike only to find out that it had been stolen, so he subsequently lodged a complaint with the Police.

The convict was later arrested after he was spotted at the London market area in James Town.The package includes Ghc 20,000 for the organisation of this years event, Vodafone souvenirs, Vodafone Farmers Club SIMs with 12 months airtime and data as well as free access to farmers helpline and useful information on crop and agric for all the Regional and National winners.

Additionally, the telco has announced a unique package of Ghc 10,000 cash, a Vodafone tablet, VIP access to Farmers Club with extra airtime and data for the Best National Female Farmer, in line with its continuous commitment to empowering females in agriculture.

Speaking to a cross-section of the media during the presentation, Director of Enterprise Business Unit (EBU) at Vodafone Ghana, Angela Mensah-Poku said:

Vodafone is excited to join in the celebration of our national heroes and heroines within the agricultural sector. We are committed to driving innovation in agriculture whilst bridging the gap between farmers and critical farming information."

"Through our Farmers Club initiative, we have been connecting farms, agribusinesses and rural communities to drive productivity, profitability and innovation. This initiative provides farmers with access to relevant information on improved farming practices, crop information, prices of commodities and expert advice, in their preferred language.

ece-auto-genAccording to her, the wearing of such dresses is more of fashion, rather than an invitation to men to rape ladies.

READ ALSO:

Speaking on Metro TVs Good Evening Ghana, she said she is less critical of ladies who are fond of wearing skimpy dresses.

She explained that wearing miniskirts does not make one bad, adding that she used to like such dresses while she was in the University.

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I dontno I dont [them]. I was one of the people who said it is wrong for people to think that because a style is in fashion, it makes the person who wears it bad. No that is not itif the person just wants to be fashionable and wear a mini skirt why not? Nana Konadu said, as quoted by Peacefmonline.

The former First Lady was a student of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

She said there were a couple of fashion trends on campus at the time, including students wearing hot pants.

READ ALSO: GIJ reopens; examinations to continue todayGIJ reopens; examinations to continue today

Nana Konadu said although she does not support the idea of ladies wearing exposing dresses, such acts shouldnt be taken as an invitation to rape.The form which costs GHS 20,000 was paid for by the executives as support to Mr. Mahama's candidature.

The National Democratic Congress opened nominations for its flagbearership role today amidst protests by some of the aspirants over the expensive filing fee being demanded by the party.

The aggrieved aspirants, led by Alban Bagbin, have described the GHS 400,000 filing fee as reversal on the principles in which the NDC was formed.

They have, therefore, decided to boycott the process till the fees are reduced.

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The NDC at its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Thursday, 29 November at the partys headquarters in Accra, resolved that all male flag bearer aspirants are expected to pay GHS400,000 as filing fee while female flag bearer aspirants are to pay GHS200,000 and persons with disability aspiring to the same position are to pay GHS150,000.Mahama is reported to have received pledges amounting to about GH500,000 in support of his campaign whilst other contestants in the race, are complaining that the GH20,000 cost for the nomination form and the GH400,000 filing fee was on the higher side.

Meanwhile, an official short code and a mobile money number have been secured by two support groups for the John Mahama 2020 Campaign.

The Committee for Mahama Election Two (COMET) and MPs4Mahama, a group of 94 Minority Members of Parliament who have declared their support for former President John Mahama's bid to run for the National Democratic Congress' flag bearer slot ahead of the 2020 general elections, have begun a fund-raising campaign for Mr Mahama ahead of the NDC flag bearer election.

The fundraisers have announced an official shortcode and mobile money account through which contributions can be made.

The shortcode is *713*2020*amount# on all networks or MTN mobile money number 0540842021.This was his response to the several rumours concerning the identity of the President of the West African country.

One of the claims is that he has died during one of his medical trips to London. Another us that he has been replaced by a clone called Jubril from Sudan.

President Buhari has finally responded to these widespread and mainstream rumours while attending the 24th session of the Conference of the Parties (#COP24) which is under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (#UNFCCC).

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During an interactive session with the Nigerian community in Krakow, Poland, on Sunday, December 2, 2018, he insisted that he is very much alive.

In the video, shared via his official Twitter account, President Buhari says he is not surprised by what the tale bearers, adding that these people are ignorant.

"One of the questions that came up today in my meeting with Nigerians in Poland was on the issue of whether I've been cloned or not. The ignorant rumours are not surprising - when I was away on medical vacation last year a lot of people hoped I was dead.

"A lot of people hoped that I died during my ill health. Those who spread the rumour are ignorant and irreligious."

President Buhari noted that the rumours have also affected his vice president, Prof Yemi Osinbajo who has had to deal with politicians lobbying for the VP position.

In his words, "Poor @ProfOsinbajo, even he had to deal with the rumours - Some people reached out to him to consider them to be his Vice President because they assumed I was dead. That embarrassed him a lot; we discussed it when he visited me while I was convalescing."Kenyatta stated this when he appeared via video link on Sunday, December 2, 2018, during a concert in Johannesburg to honour the life of Nelson Mandela.

This year, I pledge to you my fellow global citizens that in Kenya our education budget will be closer to 30% of our total budget making it probably the highest on the African continent.

The advocacy group Global Citizen organised the concert to mark South Africa's first black president, Nelson Mandela's 100th posthumous birthday.

At the 73rd United Nations General Assembly in September, President Kenyatta was endorsed as the Global Champion of the Young Peoples Agenda.

The president believed his administration will go beyond the global expectation of 20% national budget allocation to education.

At the 73rd United Nations General Assembly in September, President Kenyatta was endorsed as the Global Champion of the Young Peoples Agenda.This will end the small rich energy nations 57 years of membership with the oil cartel.

Qatar Petroleum, the country's state oil company, made this known in a series of tweets on Monday, December 3, 2018.

"The withdrawal decision reflects Qatar's desire to focus its efforts on plans to develop and increase its natural gas production."

The tweets quoted Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the country's minister of state for energy affairs, as saying that Qatar has informed OPEC about its decision to withdrawal from the group.

Qatar has worked diligently during the past few years to develop a future strategy based on growth and expansion, both in its activities at home and abroad.

Achieving our ambitious growth strategy will undoubtedly require focused efforts, commitment and dedication to maintain and strengthen Qatars position as the leading natural gas producer,  the minister said in a series of tweets seen by Business Insider Sub-Saharan Africa.

Al-Kaabi explains further that the withdrawal decision reflects Qatars desire to focus its efforts on plans to develop and increase its natural gas production from 77 million tons per year to 110 million tons in the coming years.

The Oil group which is dominated by oil-rich Saudi Arabian bloc, is yet to respond to Qatar withdrawal.

Nigeria, other OPEC members and non-OPEC members meet on Thursday

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Nigeria and other members of OPEC and non-OPEC members are scheduled to meet in Vienna, Austria, on Thursday, over possible output cuts in order to prop up tumbling oil prices.

Nigerias 2019 budget pegged crude oil price at $60 per barrel at a production rate of 2.3 million barrels per day, though not yet ratified by the lawmakers. The decision of the oil cartel may affect Africas biggest market largely dependent on oil revenue. The country slipped into its worst economic recession in 2016 owing to fall in global oil price.

The global crude oil prices have fallen more than 25% since its recorded peak in October.

Crude oil price trade above $60 per barrel on MondayThe Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, CP Imohimin Edgal, told newsmen that the suspects were arrested after threatening to shoot policemen controlling the traffic at the ever busy Oshodi area of Lagos.

Edgal said that he was disappointed with the musicians conduct because he had a case with the State CID, Panti for shooting a gun at his Agege show where he injured four persons.

You would have thought the incident would caution him but surprisingly today, I got a situation report from traffic monitors at the Oshodi expressway about four unknown gunmen in green unregistered SUV.

He (Small Doctor) allegedly brought out a weapon and threatened to fire the policemen. Fortunately the DPO and other policemen at Shogunle intercepted the suspects and arrested them.

When they were brought here it was discovered that one of them was the same Adekunle Temitope a.k.a Small Doctor with three others and they were arrested with a functional rifle, a cartridge and some personal items.

I am concerned as one will expect that a popular musician like him would be a role model but his character of gangsterism is nothing to emulate, he said.

ALSO READ: Small Doctor denies receiving N2m from Buhari

The CP further urged celebrities to stop involving themselves in issues of gangsterism and conflicts that do not portray their image positively.

You will recall that the Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, have a window period for submission of all firearms as all licences had been canceled and all approvals suspended.The veteran actor it is reported needs the sum of $50,000 for treatment outside the country. A Gofundme account has been opened on his behalf to raise funds so he can travel out of the country to search medical help.

Victor Olaotan was involved in a ghastly car accident back in 2016. At some point, it was reported that his legs were so bad it needed to be amputated.

Victor Olaotan reportedly facing leg amputation following accident in 2016

Back in 2017, reports had it that veteran actor Victor Olaotan was going to have both legs amputated. This comes as a result of the car crash he was involved in back in October 2016.

Victor Best known for his role as Fred Ade-Williams in the long-running television drama Tinsel, Mr. Olaotans legs may reportedly be cut off in order to save his life.

Sources close to the family say his health status is being closely guarded.

Although Victor is in a stable condition, his legs may have to be cut off to allow him any chance of recovery.

Victor Olaotan reportedly in a coma

Nollywood actor, Victor Olaotan was reportedly in a coma following a car crash in 2016. The "Tinsel" star was said to have been involved in an auto crash on October 31, 2016, in Lagos."What I find particularly interesting with the revelation of Cohen's plea is that he's saying he lied to protect then-candidate Trump's stories that he had nothing to do with Russia," Warner said on CNN's "State of the Union." "So, the president seemed to already be changing his story a little bit and say, 'Well, it was all legal.' "Welcome to the Pulse Community! We will now be sending you a daily newsletter on news, entertainment and more. Also join us across all of our other channels - we love to be connected!The South African rapper has grown quite a name for himself selling out stadiums like the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg late last year and more recently the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, December 1, 2018.

He can now add another feather to his ever illustrious career as his latest album, ''Sweet and Short'' has been certified to have gone platinum 24 hours after its release by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RISA).

In a message posted on his social media pages on Monday, December 3rd, Cassper shared a picture of the plaque being presented to him with the caption, ''Killed 2 stadiums back to back and my new album went platinum in a day.''

This announcement is coming a day after he put up an impressive performance at the Global Citizen Festival in his set which included mash-ups with Chris of Coldplay and UK rapper Stormzy.

For an album to be certified gold status in South Africa, it should have sold over 15,000 copies, and 30,000 copies for platinum status.

The album which features the likes of Frank Casino, DJ Sumbody, Boskasie and Shwi Nomntekhala follows the path of his past projects, which last year reportedly sold a cummulative figure of 10 million album units.

Cassper Nyovest albums reportedly sell 10 million copies

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Over the weekend of December 12, 2017, South African rapper, Cassper Nyovest celebrated on social media. His reason: Hes just received a plaque that says he has sold 10 million album units.

Nyovest was standing beside a tall plaque that showed his achievements. And the congratulations poured in from fans all over the world. This certification are for his three albums Tsholofelo (2014), Refiloe (2015), and Thuto (2017).The world was in a problem, the madness of life was in rubbles and its quite unimaginable to wonder the state of the battler for life become the survivor in Ghana  The ones who tried to rescue him died.

According to Within Nigeria, this was the case in Bosumtwi-Sam Fishing Harbour in Sekondi, Ghana as four boys drowned in a beach, trying to save their friend. They were all buried in Ketan, Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis. The kids had gone to Skyy Beach Haven to have some fun when they died on Sunday, December 2, 2018.

ALSO READ: Nigerian man sentenced to death for pushing drugs in Malaysia

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Daily Guide reports that the four boys had attempted to save one 19-year-old Julius who was seen drowning. Sadly, they all died with Julius survived and is receiving treatment at Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital in Sekondi.Fantasy coffins are also called proverbial coffins, abebuu adekai, or "okadi adekai" in Ga language. They were made popular by Kane Kwei (1922-1992) who is considered the father of fantasy coffins, and Joseph "Paa Joe" Ashong (b. 1947), one of the most famous coffin makers of his time.

The belief behind this within the Ga people is that elaborate coffins influence how the deceased live in the afterlife.

They believe that life continues in the afterlife the same way it did in the real world and that ancestors can influence the lives of the living.

Hence, the survived relatives try as much as possible to ensure that a dead person is sympathetic towards them as early as possible.

In some places in Nigeria, the social status of the deceased will reflect on how large and costly the burial is.

However, in Ghana, the social status of the deceased is reflected by the importance, success and usage of an exclusive coffin during a burial, which will only be seen on the day of the funeral.

ALSO READ: Asmat tribe: The cannibalistic people who use human skulls as pillows

The coffins often symbolise the dead peoples professions but certain shapes, such as a sword, stool coffin, or some animals represent regal, priestly insignia and clan totems. Hence, only certain people such as kings, priests, heads of families are allowed to be buried in such coffins.

The use of these coffins within the Ga people have been traced to the beginning of the 20th century, to Ga chiefs and priests. However, Christians began to integrate it as part of local funeral culture around the 1950s.

The business of caskets

"We are not happy when people die," Paa Joe, who has been in the business for over 50 years, tells CNN. "We feel pity. We feel like giving them a befitting farewell, like giving them what they were doing when they were alive to continue because we believe life continues after life her."

Whatever the case, fantasy coffins is good business in Ghana, especially for Kane Kwei and Paa Joe, who made into a family business.

On a good month, or bad month depending on who you're speaking to, the coffin makers can construct at least 10 coffins for clients.

According to BBC, customers from more than 20 countries have requested and bought these coffins from workshops across Ghana and woodworking students in South Korea, Russia, US and Denmark have come to Ghana to learn the trade.

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Paa Joe says that fantasy coffins can cost $5,000 to $15,000 for international clients, who mostly want them for showcase in museums, etc. This is because these types of coffins are made from hard woods like mahogany for durability and to guard against cracking and insect attacks.

Coffins intended for burial, however, are usually made from soft wood and prices range from $400 and $1000, especially for local clients. The family of the deceased determine the designs, which range from airplanes to cars to canons to animals and farm produce.

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Fantasy coffins made by Paa Joe and Kane Kwei were shown in an exhibition for the first time at Les Magiciens de la terre at the Musee National dArt Moderne in Paris in 1989, hence gaining international recognition.The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has introduced a special forex intervention to sell $15,000 to each Bureau De Change operators (BDCs) in the country every week.

In a circular issued by U. Abdullahi, CBN's Director at Trade and Exchange department, the apex bank said the approach is to cater for the yuletide season and the resultant increase in the demand for Personal/Business Travel Allowance.

This is to inform Bureau De Change (BDC) operators and the general public that with the approach of the yuletide season and the resultant increase in the demand for Personal/Business Travel Allowance, the CBN has in addition to the existing market days (Monday, Wednesday and Friday) introduced a special intervention day every Thursday for $15,000 per BDC commencing on Thursday, December 06, 2018.

All operators are hereby advised to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the extant regulations on the disbursement of forex cash to their respective customers as any case of infraction will be appropriately sanctioned, the circular reads.

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Naira trades N370 to a dollar at the parallel market

In a bid to ensure stability in Nigeria's local currency, the Central Bank of Nigeria has been interplaying at the foreign exchange market to arrest depreciation against the US dollar.

Last week, the Naira traded all-time low against the US dollar at the parallel market in the year, dropping more than N7 to N370 per dollar.

But Godwin Emefiele, governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), explained that the country has enough foreign reserves to curtail the situation. He also attributed the sharp fall in Naira to currency speculators.

CBN battles dollar with forex interventions

As at the third quarter of 2018, the apex bank has intervened to the tune of $11.88 billion to authorised dealers.

In May, it signed a currency swap agreement on behalf of Nigeria with Yi Gang, the governor of Peoples Bank of China on behalf of China valued at 16 billion Renminbi (RMB) which is an equivalent of $2.5billion.

The move was to reduce the difficulties acquiring third currencies - Dollars, Euros and Great Britain Pounds.Some members of the Nigerian public actually believe that Buhari died during one of his medical trips to London and was replaced by a clone called Jubril from Sudan.

Pulse weighed in on the rumours a week ago, the AFP did a fact check and the presidency was forced to react to what has become widespread and maintsream.

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On Sunday, December 2, 2018, President Buhari responded to the rumours during an interactive session with the Nigerian community in Krakow, Poland, where he is attendingthe 24th session of the Conference of the Parties (#COP24) which is under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (#UNFCCC).

Here are 4 ways Buhari dealt with stories that he has been cloned and replaced with a lookalike....

1. People who spread the rumours are ignorant

According to Buhari, it is ignorant and satanic to say he is a clone from Sudan or anywhere else for that matter.

"A lot of people hoped that I died during my ill health. Those who spread the rumour are ignorant and irreligious", the president said.

2. Buhari says he was not surprised by what the tale bearers were able to come up with

One of the questions that came up today in my meeting with Nigerians in Poland was on the issue of whether Ive been cloned or not.

The ignorant rumours are not surprising  when I was away on medical vacation last year a lot of people hoped I was dead", he said.

3. Some politicians were already fighting over how to become Osinbajos vice president, believing that Buhari was dead

There was already a power play among the political class over who should be Osinbajos vice president.

In other words, the lobbying for the VP position was intense.

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Buhari said; Poor Prof Osinbajo (his deputy). Even he had to deal with the rumours. Some people reached out to him to consider them to be his vice president because they assumed I was dead. That embarrassed him a lot; we discussed it when he visited me while I was convalescing.

4. Buhari says hes going strong and hell be around for a while

In the presidents words: I can assure you all that this is the real me. Later this month I will celebrate my 76th birthday. And Im still going strong!Army spokesperson, Brigadier-General Sani Usman, disclosed this while speaking on a programme on Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) on Sunday December 2.

During the programme the army spokesman said that the defence ministry had been working to receive the money from the government.

He said, "People should understand also that this is a democratic system in which the procurement, and of course, the funding of defence-related issues take such a long time. Take for instance the issue of the $1bn approved recently by Mr President, up till now the process is ongoing.

"The Ministry of Defence is still pursuing the matter to the point that when it is done, the armed forces will definitely get more equipment, more arms and ammunition."

He added, "In respect of the effort, we are trying as much as possible to make sure that first and foremost we give timely and accurate information on all our activities and operations, bearing national security concern."This development was disclosed by the president of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Prof. Biodun Ogunyemi, on Sunday, December 2.

Ogunyemi disclosed to Vanguard that the union is fighting to rescue the education sector from eminent collapse and also ensure children of the poor get access to quality and affordable education.

He said, "Well, we have confirmed that they have withdrawn that threat (no work no pay). So it appears the threat is not there for now. But even if the threat is there, we are prepared for that because for our members, no sacrifice is too much to salvage Nigeria's education."

Ogunyemi said the negotiation meeting between ASUU and the federal government held on Friday did not yield much result adding that the meeting would continue on Monday, December 3.

The Federal government in a memo sent by the Nigerian Universities Commission directed university vice chancellors to enforce the "no-work-no-pay" policy on the striking lecturers.

On Sunday, November 4, 2018, the Academic Staff Union declared an indefinite, nationwide strike over non-implementation of previous agreements by the federal government.The senator made the call following the president's reaction on the claim that he was dead and someone known as Jubril from Sudan is impersonating him.

President Buhari while responding to questions in Poland on Sunday, December 2, refuted the claim.

He was quoted to have said, "A lot of people hoped that I died during my ill health. Some even reached out to the Vice- President (Prof. Yemi Osinbajo) to consider them to be his deputy because they assumed I was dead.

"That embarrassed him (Osinbajo) a lot and of course, he visited me when I was in London convalescing."

Shehu Sani took to his Twitter account to urge the president to reveal the desperate people who were begging Osinbajo to make them his vice president while he was ill.

He wrote, "The President and the vice should have the courage to reveal the name of THAT very person who was desperate to be Vice President when the President went on health vacation in the UK. Else, Nigerians will have to wait for memoirs in years to come, when the nation would have moved on."

How it started

According to reports, the Buhari clone story started when he returned from one of his periodic medical trips to London.

Nnamdi Kanu, the exiled leader of the Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB),told his followers that the President had died in London.

The IPOB leader also claimed that a body double known as Jubril from Sudan was hired and trained by Buhari's handlers to take his place.

FG reacts

The various insinuations prompted the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed to address the issue.Mbaka declared that Atiku will fail in his presidential bid, following former Governor Peter Obi's refusal to publicly announce his donation.

The priest, in a viral video, asked Obi several times to make his donation to his ministry public, but the PDP Vice-Presidential candidate said he will disclose what he will do privately.

The occasion was a Bazaar service which was organised by the Adoration Ministry on Sunday, December 2, 2018.

A Bazaar is held by most traditional churches to raise funds by auctioning items given by members during a harvest program.

God hates stinginess

In his response, Mbaka said God hates stinginess. I am not telling you this, to make you happy. This is what will save your life. Otherwise you and Atiku will fail.

According to The Cable, He also said If there is a place they will coat words for you, it is not at Mbakas altar. You can save your political destiny. Or in 2019, you people will not even know how they did the election. What will make my brother to come for bazaar and he wont even break kola?

The way you and Atiku are moving will end in shame.

Let us continue our bazaar. You know since he is not supporting us, the ministry has been moving. If people start arguing like this, their downfall begins, he added.

Mbaka also told his followers that he will give a prophesy on the outcome of the 2019 election on December 31, 2018.

October prophesy

In October 2018, the priest revealed that Atiku will defeat President Buhari in the 2019 presidential election.

He however warned the PDP presidential candidate not to behave like Buhari when he gets to office.

Also, in December 2017, Fr. Mbaka prayed for Atiku saying that he has what it takes to make Nigerians smile.

Nigerians react

Nigerians on Twitter have criticised Mbaka for from the Kano state Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje who was recently accused of receiving kickbacks from contractors.

Ganduje, who also attended the Bazaar service on Sunday, made a secret donation to the ministry, according to Mbaka.

Buhari has abandoned me

The priest, while commenting on the Kano state Governors secret donation, accused Buhari of abandoning him.

He went ahead to list how he helped the President spiritually, claiming that his prophesy boosted the APC's chances in 2015.

The priest also asked Ganduje to go back and tell Buhari to help his ministry or provide jobs for his followers who supported and stood by him during the elections.

Hope Uzodima, the APC guber candidate in Imo state, later announced Buhari's promise to build a hospital for the ministry.Governor Ganduje was recently accused of receiving kickbacks from contractors in his state.

Several videos of the Governor allegedly receiving the funds were also posted online by the Daily Nigerian.

Buhari has abandoned me

Speaking during his Bazaar service on Sunday, December 2, 2018, Mbaka accused President Buhari of abandoning him.

A Bazaar is held by most traditional churches to raise funds by auctioning items given by members during a harvest program.

Mbaka made the comment after the Kano Governor's secret donation and speech thanking him for his support in 2015.

According to the controversial priest, the All Progressives Congress (APC) was down until he gave a prophesy from his altar.

He also said that Buhari should not relax and think that he is healthy, adding that something can happen anytime that might cause things to scatter.

Mbaka, who alleged that he was attacked for standing by Buhari, called on Ganduje to tell Buhari to help his ministry.

Twitter reactions

The priest's comments during the Bazaar got some people talking on social media. Here are some of the reactions on Twitter below:

In October 2018, Mbaka accused President Buhariof playing ethnic, despotic politics. According to him, Buhari has all the human and material resources to improve the country, but has chosen to play games with the lives of Nigerians.President Buhari warned that the challenges of climate change, including rising temperatures, desertification, floods, low agricultural yields and drying up of water bodies, are enormous and evident to all.

While citing the receding Lake Chad, the President noted that the effects of climate change were felt more on the vulnerable communities who lacked the capacity and technology to properly address such challenges.

He said: Obviously, no country can confront the phenomenon alone. In this regard, Nigeria believes in joint and cooperative efforts to tackle the problem.

We urge that efforts to address the challenges of climate change be pursued within multilateral frameworks. Concerted efforts should be made to strengthen sub-regional and regional organizations, to serve as hubs for Climate Action and partnership.

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Speaking specifically on Lake Chad, the President reaffirmed that Nigeria remained committed to saving the Lake, which was a source of livelihood to 40 million people, from extinction.

He said Nigeria would build on the success of an International Conference held earlier in February this year in Abuja to create additional awareness globally on the serious environmental and security challenges facing the Lake Chad region.

The Nigerian leader told COP 24 Summit that a consensus was reached at the Abuja Conference that an inter-basin water transfer from the Congo Basin remains the most sustainable option available to resuscitate and safeguard this precious water body that was once the 6th largest fresh water Lake in the world.

On behalf of the Member Countries of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, the President thanked the Italian Government for donating 1.5 million Euros towards completion of the feasibility studies on the proposed inter-basin water transfer project.

I once again call on the international community to support this worthy project, for the benefit of nearly 40 million people that depend on the Lake for their livelihood, and to guarantee future security of the region.

I would like to reiterate Nigerias commitment to constructively supporting multilateral action aimed at addressing climate change.

We must rededicate ourselves to the task of rebuilding and restoring the healthy environment we inherited for future generations, he said.

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President Buhari also used the occasion to highlight what Nigeria had done and is doing on climate change after the adoption of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change in 2015.

He disclosed that Nigeria had commenced the implementation of its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In the next 15 years, we aim to achieve 20% emissions reduction below Business as Usual (BAU) and 45% emissions reduction with the support of our international partners by 2030.

Our efforts include the review and introduction of new responsive Legislation/policies, strengthening institutional and manpower capacities, and encouraging gradual transition to low carbon economy.

Nigeria has also recently ratified the Doha Amendment and will soon deposit the instrument for ratification, he said.

The President pledged that Nigeria would continue to pursue industrialization and economic development, with sound environmental management and best practices.

He added that Nigeria had unlocked the potential of its sovereign green bond to galvanize private capital to finance environmentally sustainable projects.

In support of our NDC aspiration, we have embraced the issuance of green bond as an innovative and alternative source of funding projects that would reduce emissions and provide robust climate infrastructure like renewable energy, low carbon transport, water infrastructure and sustainable agriculture that our country needs, he said.

The President also told the summit that, Nigeria believes that technology can be a powerful solution for simultaneously addressing climate change and advancing development

He, therefore, stressed the need for developed countries to accelerate the finance for research and development, in addition to promoting access to climate-friendly technologies.

In addition, there is the need to raise global climate action in the pre-2020 period, in terms of mitigation, adaptation and means of implementation.

For us in Nigeria, we are promoting technologies and practices such as sustainable land management, climate resilient agriculture, water efficiency and clean energy.

We have also developed insurance-based initiatives to deal with loss and damage, as well as adaptation to internally acceptable practices, he said.

The President commended the Government and People of Poland for hosting the 24th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in the beautiful city of Katowice.According to Daily Post, the anti-graft agency asked the former Governor to report to its Kano office on December 5, 2018.

Jang, in a statement issued by his media consultant, Clinton Garuba, said that he will be in court for the hearing of a case filed against him by the EFCC in Plateau state on the day he is expected to be in Kano.

The former Governor was accused of mis-using some special funds released to the state government by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Jang was however granted baion May 24, 2018 by the Plateau state High Court, on the condition that he presents two sureties in the sum of N100 million each.

The statement reads: The Senator representing Plateau North Senatorial District, the distinguished Senator (Dr.) Jonah David Jang will not honour the invitation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFFC, to report to its Kano office on 5th December, 2018, and has written to the commission asking it to pick another date in January 2019.

The decision to turn down the invitation was an easy one because the Senator is under trial in Jos the Plateau State Capital having been charged to court by the same commission, and the matter is expected to commence definite hearing around the date of the invitation.

To be sure, it is baffling how the EFCC expects the serving Senator to be in two places at the same time since he does not possess any psychic abilities.

To be exact, the invitation is not unconnected with the story in the news alleging that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has traced a mansion worth N500million to Senator Jonah Jang.

The property located at No. 8 and 9 Gobarau Road, Unguwan Rimi GRA, Kaduna State does not belong to Senator Jang, and this is not the first time the commission would investigate its ownership.

The property formerly belonging to Northern Nigerian Development Company, Kaduna, was allocated to the Senator while he was the executive Governor of Plateau State but eventually lost interest and did not continue with the acquisition.

EFCC has this information and it knows the the actual owners of the said property . Unfortunately, but deliberately EFCC continues to harass the Senator in its usual media trials aimed at tarnishing his glowing name and reputation."Sanni Abdulganiyu, the Coordinator of Warri- Itakpe train service, disclosed this in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN).

Abdulganiyu, an Engineer, said that some minor challenges were expected in the operation, which was the main idea of the test run, which would be worked on, to get a smooth operation.

He said that there wont be operation till Dec. 10 to fix those challenges.

We suspended the service till Dec.10, to enable us fix some important things; there will be no service this week, he said.

According to him, this week the train originated from Agbor because there was no security in Warri and also couldnt get to Itakpe because of the lack of security due to the location of the station.

The operation was not too smooth. Normally, when you start a project like this, you will expect to have some tooting problems before you can really settle down, it is like start-up challenges, he said.

Abdulganiyu said that all the technical problems would be resolved and discussions were ongoing on the issue of security.

We were supposed to have security at Warri where we originate the train from, but because there was no security at Warri, our train couldnt sleep there, we originated from Agbor which was time consuming.

We are already discussing with security companies that can provide us security at Warri, so that we can originate from Warri and we have sorted the technical problems, he said.

According to him, the people were so happy with the government over the project and hoped that the service could meet the high demand during the festive period because they operate once a day for now.Organised labour stressed that it expected PresidentMuhammadu Buhari to have sent a draft bill on minimum wage to the National Assembly weeks after the report was sent to him.

In an interview with The Punch, NLC General Secretary, Mr. Peter Ozo-Eson, disclosed that members of the union are becoming restless with how the government is handling the issue.

He said, "The latest about the issue of the minimum wage is clear. We expect that since the Presidency had already received our report, the President should have drafted an executive bill to the National Assembly on it so that they can begin to legislate on it.

"That has not been done even though we expect that it should have been done already. We cannot continue to wait forever."

He stressed that the union might meet again soon to review government position and take necessary action unless the government acts fast.

Ozo-Eson added, "The next step as I said is for the President to transmit a draft bill to the National Assembly. The FG's delay on the issue is provocative, our members are becoming restless and the FG must act fast on our report.

"If the delay continues, our next step will be made public after we meet again to review the steps taken so far."

The Senate Deputy Majority Leader, Bala Ibn Na'allah, had restated that the National Assembly will give the new national minimum wage bill speedy hearing as soon as it is sent to the legislature. The lawmaker gave the assurance on Friday, November 23.

Lack of agreement between the union and federal government has stalled the presentation of the bill to the National Assembly.

Following the recent meeting between both parties, a source disclosed that an agreement is yet to be reached but once it is sorted "the bill will go to the National Assembly and the passage should be smooth.Addressing journalists in Abuja, national coordinator of the group, Barrister Abayomi Ariyo, noted that the decision was reached after a survey across the 36-states in the country.

Ariyo cautioned Nigerians against on the plot to launch a campaign aimed at discrediting President Buhari by some political opponents ahead of 2019.

The statement reads: The NCP, after a careful analysis of the state of the nation, hereby affirms that Nigeria is indeed on the path of greatness given the leadership strides of President Muhammadu Buhari.

The NCP commissioned a survey in the 36 states of the federation, including the federal capital territory in an attempt to get the views of the people on the key performance index in the critical sectors of health, education, security, infrastructure and agriculture.

"The survey results corroborated other assessment that are in the public domain as regards the achievements of President Muhammadu Buhari. And by virtue of this, we wish to lend our voice to the acceptability and suitability of President Muhammadu Buhari in leading Nigeria to greatness in the next four years.

ALSO READ: Atiku challenges President Buhari to a debate ahead of the 2019 elections

"It is also so our considered opinion that given the aforementioned, President Muhammadu Buhari deserves a second term in office to consolidate on his achievements. This is also mindful of the fact that amongst the litany of candidates, vying for the Office of the President, only President Muhammadu Buhari has demonstrated through his words and actions that the interest of Nigeria as a while should and will always supersede individual, ethnic and religious interests.

"President Muhammadu Buhari is also a leader with global appeal, and one whose integrity and commitment to the socio-economic advancement of Nigeria has earned Nigeria its pride of place in the comity of Nations."

NCP said President Buhari deserves all the needed support to lead the nation to the greater heights in 2019.

Meanwhile, Sam Nwanti, a presidential candidate under the Labour Party has decamped to the All Progressives Congress (APC).Mr Paul Ibe, Media Adviser to the former Vice President disclosed this in a statement to newsmen on Sunday in Abuja.

The new appointees are: Dr Ahmed Adamu, Special Assistant (Youth and Strategy); Aliyu Bin Abbas, Special Assistant (Youth Support Groups); Phrank Shuaibu, Special Assistant (Public Communications); and Mrs Funmi Lamuye, Special Assistant (South-West).

Adamu, 33, is an academician, petroleum economist and leadership and development expert, who hails from Katsina State, and a pioneer of Global President of Commonwealth Youth Council.

He was an international expert at the United Nations Global Forum on Youth. He was also ranked among the top 100 most influential young Nigerians by Advance Media Africa.

Abbas, 34, an indigene of Borno State, is Director-General of the Atiku Cares Foundation (ACF).

ACF is a philanthropic platform of the former Vice President for humanitarian interventions to vulnerable persons and communities.

ACF has under the leadership of Abbas, made great impact in bringing succor to the most vulnerable around the country, especially in the Northeast zone, he said.

Ibe said Shuaibu, 43, a publicist and public communications consultant hails from Kogi.

He also said Lamuye, a lawyer and philanthropist, was the founder of Prince Alade Lamuye Foundation (PALF), a vehicle she had used to impact on the lives of the widows in her state, Osun.

She was until recently a member of the National Assembly Service Commission, Ibe said.In one of its recent reports, The Economist of London had predicted that President Muhammadu Buhari will win next years election.

However, in a statement by his Special Assistant on Public Communication , Mr. Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described as a poorly-executed hatchet job, the prediction by The Economist of London, in which the magazine put on the garb of a partisan and made no pretenses to professionalism while predicting that President Muhammadu Buhari will win next years poll.

He said, on Monday, that with the tacit endorsement of President Muhammadu Buhari for a second term, in its current edition, the erstwhile influential news magazine has hit a new low by throwing all pretenses to the wind to take up the job of presidential spokespersons.

It is common knowledge that the Economists fortunes have taken a nosedive in recent months with its flip- flop on issues especially as it pertains the upcoming presidential election in Nigeria. But the magazine hit a new low in its current edition, The World in 2019, where it made projections of issues and events that will shape the year 2019 across many countries including Nigeria."

Shaibu also said even if the All Progressives Congress (APC) or President Muhammadu Buharis spokespersons had written that story, it could not have been so recklessly partisan, so undisguisedly biased and so devoid of any shred of professionalism.

According to him, the so-called story which says, the president, Muhammadu Buhari, will win re-election in February, as a new opposition coalition may collapse before the vote fails to meet the attributes of objectivity, balance and fairness.

The Atiku spokesperson said it was scandalous that the magazine went ahead to predict a victory for the APC candidate even when it said a Buharis second coming portends disaster for Nigeria.

Shaibu said it was sad that The Economist went on to endorse a failed president even when it admitted that a Buharis second term would mean continuing political weakness, little prospect of progress in the fight against islamist insurgency in the north, nationalism in the oil producing Delta and secessionism in Biafra.

He said it was equally strange that the same magazine whose Intelligence Unit predicted that PDP candidate, Atiku Abubakar, will lead the new government come 2019 has now made a u-turn to endorse President Buhari even when his performance in office is now at all time low.

But we hasten to say that with or without the endorsement of The Economist or any news medium for that matter, we will defeat Buhari fair and square."

Shaibu said on May 29, 2019 when Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is sworn in as the President of Nigeria, The Economist will have to look elsewhere for patronage, since there will be no more room for cash and carry forecasts, and fully-paid for endorsements.

He said that the PDP Presidential Candidate was aware that when fake news materials are planted in big news outlets, they often help to lay the groundwork for rigging in elections.News of the appointment is contained in a statement issued in Abuja by Atiku's Media Adviser, Mazi Paul Ibe.

Mr. Shaibu, 43, will be expected to engage robustly with the Nigerian public throughout the period of electioneering campaigns which kicks off for Atiku in Sokoto Stateon Monday, December 3, the statement said.

"Through robust engagement with the Nigerian public, Shaibu is expected to project Alhaji Atiku Abubakar's vision for Nigeria and his action plan to achieve it as encapsulated in his policy document, TheAtikuPlan," the statement added.

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Shaibu is described in the statement as a Crisis Communications expert of note with extensive experience spanning two decades, having served as Media Consultants to former Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan; Adviser to former Governor Ibrahim Idris of Kogi State and Chief Communications Manager to former Kogi State Governor, Idris Wada.

Battle for the presidency

Atiku emerged PDP presidential flagbearer for the 2019 election duringa primary held in the Rivers State capital of Port Harcourt on October 10, 2018.

On October 16, Senate President Bukola Saraki was announced as the Director Generalof the Atiku campaign organisation.

Atiku will be leading the PDP--Nigeria's biggest opposition party platform--to battle against the governing APC on February 16, 2019.

The candidate has been asking prospective voters if their lives are any better than it was four years since Buhari assumed the reins.According to a statement by his spokesperson, Aliyu Gebi, the minister said the election will be one of the easiest in Nigeria's history as he backed Buhari to coast to victory.

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He said Atiku will not come close to the president in the race and will not even win in his home state of Adamawa.

He said, "In this race (2019), there is only one gladiator and that gladiator is the current President. So, there is no contender. (Atiku) by saying this is the toughest election in the history of Nigeria, yes toughest for him, certainly not for the President.

"As far as I'm concerned, this will be the easiest election in the history of Nigeria as far as President Muhammadu Buhari and the APC are concerned. He (Atiku) will not even win Adamawa much less Taraba or Gombe and then come to Bauchi.

"We will ensure we do whatever we can, this will be the last Atiku's outing and he will suffer a bloodied nose by the grace of God."

2019 presidential election

While next year's election, scheduled for February 16, 2019, is expected to be keenly-contested between Atiku and President Buhariof the All Progressives Congress (APC), they both face competition from other candidates including Donald Duke of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Kingsley Moghalu of the Young Progressive Party (YPP), Obiageli Ezekwesili of the Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN), Fela Durotoye of the Alliance for New Nigeria (ANN), and Omoyele Sowore of the African Action Congress (AAC).

Others are Tope Fasua of the Abundance Nigeria Renewal Party (ANRP), Eunice Atuejide of the National Interest Party (NIP), Adesina Fagbenro-Byron of the Kowa Party (KP), Chike Ukaegbu of the Advanced Allied Party (AAP), Hamza Al-Mustapha of the People's Party of Nigeria (PPN), Obadiah Mailafia of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and many more.The party also said that the failure of President Buharis administration to deliver its promises will serve as an advantage in the polls in 2019.

This was made known to Vanguard by PDPs spokesman, Kola Ologbondiyan after the partys presidential rally in Sokoto state on Monday, December 3, 2018.

Ologbondiyan also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to hold credible elections, adding that Nigerians will resist any attempt to manipulate the polls.

The PDP spokesman said Why are we confident of victory? The people have realized that apart from lies and propaganda, the APC and their candidate have nothing to offer. How can a party spend close to four years blaming its predecessor for its inability to deliver on promises made?

In Sokoto, we simply ask the people if their lives have been improved upon by the ruling party and they all chorused, no. In fact, they are worse off today than they were before this government came into power.

Our candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar assured them of job creation that will creatively engage their skills and talents. And in response, they jump for joy waiting for elections to come to make their decisions.

INEC has a duty to act as an unbiased umpire in this election. In 2019, the eyes of the world would be focused on INEC and the security agencies, particularly the Police. So, the onus is on them to demonstrate a high sense of professionalism by ensuring that the will of the people prevails.

Nigerians know what they want and come 2019, they will exercise their franchise and elect new set of leaders that will take this country to the desired destination.The PDP's spokesperson, Kola Ologbondiyan, called on the president to respond to the alleged diversion of funds meant for purchase of weapons and welfare of Nigerian soldiers to finance his re-election campaign.

He further accused the president of neglect and insensitivity following the escalations of killings in various parts of the country.

He said, "President Buhari should, by now, be providing answers for the over N11trn stolen under his watch, particularly in the petroleum sector where he sits as minister; the alleged diversion of funds meant for the purchase of weapons and welfare of our soldiers to finance his re-election campaign as well as the neglect and insensitivity that led to the escalation of killings and bloodletting in various parts of the country under his rule.

"Buhari should provide answers for his incompetence and harsh economic policies that plunged our economy into recession, leading to high cost of living, loss of over 30 million jobs, acute poverty, hunger, collapse of infrastructure in our country in the last three and a half years."

Ologbondiyan stressed that the PDP will continue to focus on issue-based campaign and with practical answers to the challenges facing the nation.

He also criticised the presidency over the claims that the PDP's presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar,cannot travel to the United States of America.

He said, "It is indeed despicable that Buhari will continue to endorse the spinning of lies by his handlers against another presidential candidate, including their false claims that Atiku cannot travel to the United States, which Nigerians have since found to be mere fabrications.

"Is it not ludicrous that the Buhari Presidency has abandoned its statutory duties and turned itself into a lying, "monitoring spirit" on Atiku and his movements, yet it has not been able to produce any documentary evidence to substantiate its claims?

"Buhari's fixation on Atiku, to the extent of sponsoring fabrications in a section of the media, only goes to show that he is intimidated by our candidate's resume, his overwhelming popularity and policy direction, which have since amplified his (President Buhari's) incompetence and lack of direction, as a result of which he is being rejected by the majority of Nigerians."In no particular order, here are five notable presidential elections that took place across the world this year.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabweans marched to the polls in July 2018 with the choice to carve out a new chapter for their nation. It was the first time in decades that Robert Mugabe would be absent on the ballot as the 94-year-old was forced out in 2017.

Mugabe resigned in November 2017 after the military 'took over' the nation's capital and piled pressure on him, with the help of parliament, to step down after 37 long years.

His longtime ally and recently dismissed vice president, Emmerson Mnangagwa, was sworn in as president to complete the remainder of his term until the 2018 election which eventually took place in July.

AFP

On August 1, Mnangagwa was declared winner of the election as he won 50.8% of the total votes cast to defeat his closest challenger, Nelson Chamisa, who got 44.3% of the votes.

With the opposition accusing Mnangagwa's government of rigging the election, post-election violence led to the killing of three people by the Zimbabwean Army.

76-year-old Mnangagwa was officially inaugurated as the third President of Zimbabwe on August 26, 2018.

Cameroon

If Zimbabwe's election was notable for moving in a new direction with a new leader after decades, Cameroon did quite the opposite.

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Paul Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982, won another seven-year term after the October 7, 2018 election that was alleged by the opposition to have been marred by widespread fraud, low turnout of voters and violence.

Biya, currently Africa's second longest serving leader, won 71.28% of the votes cast during the election that was conducted at a time when armed separatists in the two English-speaking regions of the country were up in arms and demanding secession.

General turnout for the election was a low 54%, while it was even worse in the troubled English-speaking regions where a measly 10% turnout was recorded.

AFP

Biya, Africa's second oldest leader at 85, was sworn in on November 6 and will be 92 by the time his tenure ends.

Russia

Bursting the age-long myth that only African leaders cling onto power is Russian president, Vladimir Putin.

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Putin was first elected the European nation's leader in 2000 and did two four-year terms until 2008 when he stepped down, because he was constitutionally barred from a third consecutive term, to be appointed Prime Minister by Dmitry Medvedev, a close ally whom he had handpicked as his successor and helped become president.

Medvedev soon proposed and signed a new law to extend the term of the president from four years to six, starting from the next president.

Even though he repeatedly denied a return to power, Putin returned as president in 2012 to become the nation's first 6-year president, with Medvedev returning as his Prime Minister.

After ruling Russia for 12 combined years as president, Putin won another 6-year term during the presidential election that was conducted on March 18, 2018.

The 66-year-old former KGB foreign intelligence officer won his fourth overall term in office with 76.69% of the total votes cast in an election that was criticised by the opposition for alleged voting irregularities.

When asked in March if he would run again in 2024, Putin dismissed the question without properly answering it. "Let's count - what, will I be sitting here until I'm 100 years old?" he said.

Two months after his victory, Russia's parliament was reported to be considering a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow a president hold office for three consecutive terms rather than the current limit of two, essentially paving the way for Putin to contest again in 2024.

Mexico

65-year-old Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador coasted to an overwhelming victory in the July 1, 2018 presidential election to become Mexico's new president.

He won 53.19% (30,113,483) of the popular vote with his closest challenger, Ricardo Anaya, winning only 22%.

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His victory was the first time since 1988 that a presidential candidate was elected with an absolute majority (50%+1) of the votes cast as he won 31 out of the country's 32 states.

He replaced Enrique Pena Nieto as Mexico's president after he was sworn in to start a six-year term on December 1.

Brazil

Jair Bolsonaro required two rounds of voting to emerge as Brazil's new president in elections that took place in October.

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The Social Liberal Party candidate beat 12 other opponents to 46.03% of the total votes cast in the first round on October 7, but his inability to win, at least, a 50% majority meant a run-off election was required.

The Rio de Janeiro congressman eventually beat his closest challenger, Fernando Haddad, in the second round, winning 55.13% of the popular vote.His opponent, Jimi Agbaje of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has made several allegations that the state has been under the stranglehold of former Lagos governor and APC national leader, Bola Tinubu.

"The campaign for Lagos is set for us. It is clear to us in Lagos that what Lagosians are looking for is freedom from the vested interests that have gripped Lagos for nearly 20 years. We have a situation where it had been under the grip of one or two persons and we are tired of that," he said in October.

He repeated his vow to liberate the state last weekend after he raised alarm over the destruction of his campaign billboards by some hoodlums allegedly sent by the APC.

While visiting the Akran of Badagry, Aholu De Wheno Menu Toyi 1 on Sunday, December 2, 2018, Sanwo-Olu said the insinuation that the state is under bondage is insulting to the people of Lagos State.

He said, "Some have started talking about freedom and insinuated that Lagos is in bondage. Unfortunately, we cannot begin to talk about freedom in the 21st century.

"This is insulting to humanity and the people of Lagos especially because slavery and bondage were abolished in Badagry several decades ago.

"When they talk about freedom, we ask them freedom from what? We have had our freedom and everyone in Lagos is free. We have since moved away from the era of slavery to era of prosperity with deep-seated aspiration for a greater Lagos."The aim of the trip was to give "new impetus to biliteral cooperation (and) the realisation of partnerships and investment projects", the Algerian presidency said ahead of the visit.

Prince Mohammed set off last week on his first foreign tour since the grisly murder of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi in Saudi Arabia's Istanbul consulate on October 2.

The Saudi crown prince's visit to Algeria has drawn criticism from political and academic circles in the North African country.

It was jointly denounced by 17 intellectuals, journalists, Muslim scholars and other figures in Algeria in a statement obtained by AFP.

In the statement, they said the "whole world is certain that he ordered a terrible crime against the journalist Jamal Khashoggi".

Political parties also expressed opposition to the visit, among them the Movement for the Society of Peace (MSP) opposition party.

It said Prince Mohammed was "responsible for the death of a large number of children and civilians in Yemen" as well as that of Khashoggi.

Louisa Hanoune, head of the opposition Workers' Party (PT), described his visit as a "provocation".

Earlier in the day, Prince Mohammed made a brief visit to Mauritania where he signed a series of agreements with President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz.

Khashoggi's killing has put mounting pressure on Riyadh and Prince Mohammed, who Turkish officials -- and reportedly the CIA -- have concluded was behind the critic's death.According to the survey, the three counties with the high prevalence rate for HIV/AIDS also hosts to over 17,000 undercover gay men.

Nairobi county accounts for 11,000 members of the gay community, Kiambu county was found to have 3,635 and was closely followed by Kisumu with 1,567 cases and Mombasa with 1,469.

Combined, the counties host 17,672 of the estimated 19,175 gay men in the country - commonly referred to as men who have sex with men (MSM).

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How MSM Community Transact

Researchers also found that members of the gay community in Kenya preferred to transact through online networks.

In addition, MSM commercial workers meet clients on the common "red-light" streets within the highlighted cities.

In Nairobi, it was found that there are about 137 known work stations along River Road where MSMs operate.

Explaining their findings, Nascop attributed the rising numbers in Kisumu, Mombasa and Kiambu to significant internet use and relative urbanity which promote the underground community.

HIV prevalence among the MSM community stands at 18.2% which is three times the rate in the general population.

"We are now able to reach a big number of a previously hidden group with HIV health care," the report outlined.Appearing before the Senate Public Investment Committee, Governor Sonko sympathised with Kenyans who were forced to walk long distances but added that the ban is necessary.

"We have to restore order in this city...I know people are suffering and I'm just asking for patience and we will find an amicable solution.

"We are looking for NYS buses that will be used to transport physically challenged people from their bus stops to the CBD," the governor stated.

The apology was received with major backlash from commuters who had fallen victim to the frustrating ban as some called for his resignation.

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Concerns Raised on New Termini

In the midst of the first day of the matatu CBD ban, concerned citizens also raised queries on the foot bridges that had suddenly received an influx of pedestrians.

The Ngara bridge in particular, as well as the bridge connecting Muthurwa to Railways, experienced much more human traffic than usual, with multitudes queuing to use the bridge.

Some feared that the bridges might collapse under all the weight and they sought reassurances that the bridges could hold.

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Ban Opposed in Court

Nairobi Senator Johnson Sakaja filed a petition to have the ban revoked as he cited a case of a pregnant woman who collapsed in the city.

"I'd like to apologise on behalf of leaders to all Nairobians who are suffering today as a result of the ban. There was no consultation on this ban and as you can see it is a directive that was not carefully planned or thought out.

"When you tell people not to come into the CBD then you must provide an alternative. As we speak this morning there's a pregnant lady who has collapsed in town," the Senator told reporters.

Here are more comments that were shared on Sonko's apology.435 N. Michigan Ave., No. 401, Chicago: $3,575,000 | Listed: Oct. 14, 2021



This three-bedroom home has three full bathrooms, one half-bath, 11-foot ceilings, crown molding and white oak hardwood floors. This home has an open-concept living/dining space with two lounge areas and a marble fireplace. The kitchen offers quartzite countertops, an extended island, white Shaker cabinetry and a custom wine tower. The primary bedroom has a marble en suite bath with a dual vanity, a free-standing tub and a walk-in shower. Two additional en-suite bedrooms, a laundry room, and a foyer complete this home, which is located in a building with a professional gym, a 75-foot indoor lap pool, and an outdoor terrace.



Agent: Ryan Preuett, Jameson Sothebys International Realty, 312-371-5951



*Some listing photos are virtually staged, meaning they have been digitally altered to represent different furnishing or decorating options.



To feature your luxury listing of $800,000 or more in Chicago Tribunes Dream Homes, send listing information and high-res photos to ctc-realestate@chicagotribune.com.



Join our Chicago Dream Homes Facebook group for more luxury listings and real estate news.WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.  Diabetes can lead to ulcers that patients dont even feel or notice until the sight of blood. And because ulcers cant heal on their own, 14 to 24 percent of diabetics in the U.S. who experience them end up losing their toes, foot or leg.

Purdue University researchers have developed a shoe insole that could help make the healing process more portable for the 15 percent of Americans who develop ulcers as a result of diabetes.

"One of the ways to heal these wounds is by giving them oxygen," said Babak Ziaie, Purdue professor of electrical and computer engineering. "We've created a system that gradually releases oxygen throughout the day so that a patient can have more mobility."

Diabetic ulcers commonly result from high blood sugar damaging nerves, which takes away feeling from the toes or feet.

Without the ability to feel pain, hits and bumps tend to go unnoticed and skin tissue breaks down, forming ulcers. A lot of sugar in the bloodstream, along with dried skin as a consequence of diabetes, further slow the ulcer healing process.

We typically treat ulcers by removing devitalized tissue from the surface of the wound, and by helping the patient to find ways to take the weight off the affected foot, said Desmond Bell, a podiatrist in wound management and amputation prevention at the Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida, and the founder of the Save a Leg, Save a Life Foundation.

The gold standard for treating an ulcer is a patient wearing a total-contact cast, which provides a protective environment for the foot. If we could test how well this insole delivers oxygen to the wound site from within the cast, then this could be a way of aiding the healing process, he said.

Purdue researchers used lasers to shape silicone-based rubber into insoles, and then create reservoirs that release oxygen only at the part of the foot where the ulcer is located. A YouTube video is available at https://youtu.be/DX30YU5rmUM.

The work aligns with Purdue's Giant Leaps celebration, acknowledging the universitys global advancements made in health, longevity and quality of life as part of Purdues 150th anniversary. This is one of the four themes of the yearlong celebrations Ideas Festival, designed to showcase Purdue as an intellectual center solving real-world issues.

"Silicone is flexible and has good oxygen permeability," said Hongjie Jiang, a postdoctoral researcher in electrical and computer engineering. "Laser machining helps us to tune that permeability and target just the wound site, which is hypoxic, rather than poison the rest of the foot with too much oxygen."

According to the team's simulations, the insole can deliver oxygen at least eight hours a day under the pressure of someone weighing about 53-81 kilograms (117-179 pounds). But the insole can be customized to take on any weight, the researchers say.

The team envisions a manufacturer sending a patient a pack of pre-filled insoles customized to his or her wound site, based on a "wound profile" obtained from a doctor's prescription and a picture of the foot.

"This is mass-customization at low cost," said Vaibhav Jain, a recent graduate from Purdue's mechanical engineering master's program and a current research associate in electrical and computer engineering.

Next, the researchers want to create a way to 3D print the whole insole, rather than printing a mold first and then laser-machining a pattern. They also plan to test the insole on actual diabetic ulcers, to further gauge how well they advance the healing process.

"We're wanting to bring this technology to the user by addressing whichever technicalities would be required to simplify the manufacturing flow," Jain said.

The team published its work in the September issue of the Materials Research Society Communications, a journal by Cambridge Core. Funding for this work was provided by the NextFlex PC 1.0 Project.

A patent is pending on the insole technology. The team is currently seeking corporate partners.

Writer:

Kayla Wiles, 765-494-2432, wiles5@purdue.edu

Sources:

Babak Ziaie, 765-494-0725, bziaie@purdue.edu

Hongjie Jiang, jiang289@purdue.edu

Vaibhav Jain, jain171@purdue.edu

Note to Journalists: For a full-text copy of the paper, please contact Kayla Wiles, Purdue News Service, at wiles5@purdue.edu. A YouTube video is available at https://youtu.be/DX30YU5rmUM, and other multimedia can be found in a Google Drive folder at http://bit.ly/2OJgt8Y. The materials were prepared by Erin Easterling, digital producer for the Purdue College of Engineering, 765-496-3388, easterling@purdue.edu.

ABSTRACTKathy Paterson author of Meat and Three is our Mate With a Plate today.

Here's her recipe for mascarpone elderflower icing:

Ingredients:

250g mascarpone, room temperature

125g traditional cream cheese, softened

50g icing sugar, sifted

2 tablespoons elderflower cordial

Method:

Place the mascarpone, cream cheese and icing sugar in a bowl and mix gently using a wooden spoon or spatula to combine. Add the elderflower cordial and gently stir through.

Decorate with lemon zest.

You can get her recipe for eye fillet of beef & green tomato salad here.NRE has announced details of the eight 1 067 mm gauge low-axleload diesel locomotives that it is to supply to Watco, which has won a seven-year contract to haul grain in Queensland for GrainCorp. The six-axle locos will have new NRE bogies with a 1575 tonne axleload, a 2 250 ...UKRAINE: On November 30, national railway UZ introduced an airport shuttle branded Kyiv Boryspil Express between the citys Pasazhyrskiy station and its principal airport.As part of the launch day of its worlds-first regular 8KTV service, BS8K, Japans national TV group NHK broadcasted live images from the Vatican in 8K via the EUTELSAT 12 West B satellite.





BS8K will offer offers twelve hours of 8K Ultra HD programming each day and l aunched on 1 December . Itwill feature 8K Ultra HD footage of major cultural and sporting events, museums and natural landscapes, providing viewers with a fully immersive experience and will allow for further experimentation with 8K prior to the large-scale deployment of the format for the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics games in 2020.NHK promises that its programmes will provide viewers with a sense of full immersion in each scene, imparting the feeling of presence in the stadium or concert hall. Core content will also include TV dramas and nature programmes and, in cooperation with NASA, scenes of the Earth shot from the International Space Station (ISS). Art broadcasts will feature masterpieces of the Louvre and the works of Katsushika Hokusai. BS8K service began with the airing of show Stanley Kubricks legendary film 2001: A Space Odyssey scanned at 8K resolution by studio Warner Bros. The following day, Eutelsat transmitted the live broadcast to Tokyo from the Vatican via its craft with a mobile uplink provided by M-three Satcom.To achieve what is regarded as a technologically challenging feat, NHK relied on DVB-S2X modulation, in 16APSK, and HEVC encoding. The images  7680 pixels over 4320 lines, resulting in 33.3 million pixels per image  were shot at 60 frames per second in BT2020 colour space, with 10 bits of colour depth, the equivalent of a billion colours, and high dynamic range HLG ( hybrid log gamma ), combined with 22.2 channel audio.Eutelsat has been a pioneer in delivering HD and Ultra HD formats since their inception, and this broadcast confirms satellites unique position as one of the vital technologies capable of broadcasting 8K signals, remarked Gerry OSullivan, executive vice president, global TV and video of Eutelsat . "We look forward to working hand in hand with customers such as NHK as they continue to raise the bar higher for the broadcasting industry, to deliver the best possible video experience to viewers.The Taliban confirmed that Mullah Abdul Manan Akhund (Manan), its shadow governor and military commander for Helmand, was killed in an airstrike in the southern province on December 1st. Manan was responsible for Taliban successes in Helmand that has left every district to be controlled or contested by the group.

With great sadness, we received the news of the martyrdom of the governor of the Islamic Emirate of Helmand province and its military officer in brutal American bombing yesterday, the Taliban said in an official statement released on its Arabic-language edition of Voice of Jihad.

Manans death was reported by the media office of provincial government of Helmand, which also claimed that two spokesmen identified as Hafiz Rashid and Mullah Jawid  and his two guards were also killed, according to ATN News.

The U.S. military confirmed the strike in a short statement sent to FDDs Long War Journal. The strike today was part of the Afghan operational design to our military pressure on the Taliban, Col. Dave Bulter, the spokesman for U.S. Forces Afghanistan, said in a text.

Manan, whose real name is Haji Mullah Mohammad Rahim, struggled with courage and resilience against the occupying Americans and foiled plots and plans for the American generals, the Taliban said in its announcement. [W]ith his mastery and leadership, the Mujahideen managed to purge 95 percent of the territory of Helmand from the abomination of Americans and their agents.

While the Taliban is exaggerating its control of Helmand, it is true that the group has made major inroads in Helmand province, which was the focus of the U.S. surge from 2009 to 2013. Since 2014, when the bulk of U.S. forces withdrew from Helmand, the Taliban has battled to eventually control seven on Helmands 14 districts, and contest the remaining seven.

The Taliban said that Manans death is a great loss to the Islamic Emirate and the Muslim people, but notes that martyrdom is the wish of every Mujahid great or small.

Our determination will not weaken with the martyrdom of our elders, the statement continued.

While this may seem like bluster, the Taliban has demonstrated that it has been able to effectively replace its field commanders and senior leaders who have either died of old age or have been killed in battle. For instance, the U.S. killed Mullah Abdul Salam, the groups shadow governor for Kunduz, in an airstrike in Feb. 2017. Salam masterminded the Talibans insurgency in the northern province and was responsible for successfully overrunning Kunduz City two times between 2015 and 2016. While the Taliban lamented Salams loss, his successor has maintained an effective insurgency in Kunduz, which remains one of the most unstable in Afghanistan.

The Taliban has even weathered the loss of its first two emirs, and has gained in strength despite these losses. After Mullah Omar died of natural causes in 2013, the Taliban hid his death from its followers and the world for two years before being forced to admit it. This caused the group to fracture, as some factions were upset that Omars death was hidden from them while Mullah Mansour issued statements in his name. Yet the Taliban reorganized under the leadership of Mansour and brought nearly every faction back into the fold, and intensified its insurgency at the same time.

After the U.S. killed Mansour in a drone strike in Pakistan in 2016, the Taliban appointed Mullah Haibatullah Akhund to lead it, and the insurgency became even more deadly. Today, the Taliban contest or control nearly 60 percent of Afghanistans 407 districts and maintains the initiative in fighting throughout the country, according to a study by FDDs Long War Journal.

The Taliban is lamenting the loss of Manan, but if history is any guide, it will be able to replace him with little problem.

Bill Roggio is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Editor of FDD's Long War Journal.

This article appeared originally at FDD's Long War Journal.Contrary to media speculation that Robert Mueller is closing in on President Trump, the special prosecutors plea deal with Trumps personal lawyer Michael Cohen offers further evidence that the Trump campaign did not collude with Russians during the 2016 election, according to congressional investigators and former prosecutors.

Cohen pleaded guilty last week to making false statements in 2017 to the Senate intelligence committee about the Trump Organizations failed efforts to build a Trump Tower in Moscow. Discussions about the so-called Moscow Project continued five months longer in 2016 than Cohen had initially stated under oath.

Robert Mueller: Withholding exculpatory evidence?

The nine-page charging document filed with the plea deal suggests that the special counsel is using the Moscow tower talks to connect Trump to Russia. But congressional investigators with House and Senate committees leading inquiries on the Russia question told RealClearInvestigations that it looks like Mueller withheld from the court details that would exonerate the president. They made this assessment in light of the charging document, known as a statement of criminal information (filed in lieu of an indictment when a defendant agrees to plead guilty); a fuller accounting of Cohens emails and text messages that Capitol Hill sources have seen; and the still-secret transcripts of closed-door testimony provided by a business associate of Cohen.

On page 7 of the statement of criminal information filed against Cohen, which is separate from but related to the plea agreement, Mueller mentions that Cohen tried to email Russian President Vladimir Putins office on Jan. 14, 2016, and again on Jan. 16, 2016. But Mueller, who personally signed the document, omitted the fact that Cohen did not have any direct points of contact at the Kremlin, and had resorted to sending the emails to a general press mailbox. Sources who have seen these additional emails point out that this omitted information undercuts the idea of a back channel and thus the special counsel's collusion case.

Page 2 of the same criminal information document holds additional exculpatory evidence for Trump, sources say. It quotes an August 2017 letter from Cohen to the Senate intelligence committee in which he states that Trump was never in contact with anyone about this [Moscow Project] proposal other than me. This section of Cohens written testimony, unlike other parts, is not disputed as false by Mueller, which sources say means prosecutors have tested its veracity through corroborating sources and found it to be accurate.

Also notable, Mueller did not challenge Cohens statement that he ultimately determined that the proposal was not feasible and never agreed to make a trip to Russia.

Though Cohen may have lied to Congress about the dates, one Hill investigator said, it's clear from personal messages he sent in 2015 and 2016 that the Trump Organization did not have formal lines of communication set up with Putins office or the Kremlin during the campaign. There was no secret back channel.

So as far as collusion goes, the source added, "the project is actually more exculpatory than incriminating for Trump and his campaign.

Muellers office declined comment to RealClearInvestigations.

Cohens dealings with a go-between, New York real estate developer Felix Sater, bear some resemblance to the June 2016 Trump Tower meeting between Trump campaign officials and Russian figures  a meeting arranged by a British concert promoter. Both instances indicate that no one on the Trump side, including the candidate, enjoyed special access to the Russian government. Cohens emails and text messages indicate he failed to establish communications with the Russian leaders spokesman, although he eventually was able to make contact with a desk secretary in the spokesmans office.

In the end, neither Putin nor any Kremlin official was directly involved in the scuttled Moscow project, sources say. Moreover, neither Cohen nor Trump traveled to Moscow in support of the deal, as Sater had urged. No meetings with Russian government officials took place.

It was Sater, a Russian immigrant with a checkered past, representing the Bayrock Group and not the Trump Organization, who came up with the tower project idea in 2015. His pitch had more to do with branding than real estate: Trump would lend his name to the tower project and share in the profits, but not actually build it or go into debt for it.

But the project never went anywhere because Sater didnt have the pull with Putin he claimed to have. Emails and texts indicate that Sater could only offer Cohen access to one of his acquaintances, who was an acquaintance of someone else who was partners in a real estate development with a friend of Putins.

Talks broke off in June 2016. Trump publicly stated seven months later, just days before his inauguration, that his company has never had any real estate holdings in Russia. Nothing in Muellers latest filings disputes that assertion.

Sources say Sater, whom Cohen described as a salesman," testified to the House intelligence panel in late 2017 that his communications with Cohen about putting Trump and Putin on a stage for a "ribbon-cutting" for a Trump Tower in Moscow were mere puffery to try to promote the project and get it off the ground.

Also according to his still-undisclosed testimony, Sater swore none of those communications involved taking any action to influence the 2016 presidential election. None of the emails and texts between Sater and Cohen mention Russian plans or efforts to hack Democrats campaign emails or influence the election.

Tom Fitton, president of Judicial Watch, a government watchdog group, said the criminal-information statement of offense against Cohen reflects political bias. He said the special counsel appears more interested in trying to draw connections to Russia than highlighting exculpatory evidence.

"Mueller seems desperate to confuse Americans by conflating the cancelled and legitimate Russia business venture with the Russia collusion theory he was actually hired to investigate, Fitton said. This is a transparent attempt to try to embarrass the president.

He added: "The plea deal is weak tea and I suspect, given Muellers track record, that theres even less here than meets the eye."

The actual texts of the plea deal and related materials filed last week in federal court do not jibe with reports and commentary given on several cable news outlets and comments of Democrat leaders.

CNN said the charging documents, which reference the president as Individual 1," suggest Trump had a working relationship with Russias president and that "Putin had leverage over Trump" because of the project.

Well into the 2016 campaign, one of the presidents closest associates was in touch with the Kremlin on this project, as we now know, and Michael Cohen says he was lying about it to protect the president, said CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer.

Cohen was communicating directly with the Kremlin, Blitzer added.

CNN legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin said the development was so enormous that Trump might not finish his term. At MSNBC, pundits maintained the court papers prove Trump secretly interacted with Putins own office."

Now we have evidence that there was direct communication between the Trump Organization and Putins office on this. I mean, this is collusion, said David Corn of Mother Jones, co-author of Russian Roulette: The Inside Story of Putins War on America and the Election of Donald Trump.

Adam Schiff, the incoming Democratic chairman of the House intelligence committee, said Trump was dealing directly with Putin on real estate ventures, and Democrats will investigate whether Russians laundered money through the Trump Organization.

But further dousing such speculation that the Cohen confession puts Trump in legal peril, former federal prosecutors said Mueller's filing does not remotely incriminate the president in purported Russia collusion. It doesnt even imply he directed Cohen to lie to Congress.

It doesnt implicate President Trump in any way, said former independent counsel Solomon L. Wisenberg, now with Nelson Mullins LLP in Washington. The reality is, this is a nothing-burger."

Criminal attorney Alan Dershowitz agreed, arguing that Mueller is resorting to false-statement prosecutions in lieu of prosecutions related to his mandate of investigating the Trump campaigns alleged participation in a Russian plot to interfere in the election  signaling he lacks the evidence to support such a criminal conspiracy.

We are seeing many of these cases being built around false statements, Dershowitz pointed out, not the underlying crime that has been alleged by Democrats and the media.

Though Mueller has now, in his 18-month probe, nabbed several Trump associates for process crimes, such as making false statements, and other felonies, such as tax fraud, no evidence has surfaced in any of the cases indicating that Trump colluded with Russia to steal the 2016 election.

FBI agents raided Cohens office early this spring to seize evidence, and prosecutors have spent the last several months sifting through his emails, texts and phone and travel records, as well as audio recordings he allegedly made of conservations with Trump.

Notably absent from the criminal-information document is any corroboration of the highly inflammatory, though oft-cited allegation made in the so-called Steele dossier, funded by the Clinton campaign, that Cohen visited Prague to clandestinely meet with Kremlin officials in August 2016 to arrange deniable cash payments to hackers who had worked in Europe under Kremlin direction against the Clinton campaign.

Cohen has strenuously denied the allegation and offered his passport to show I have never been to Prague in my life.The market obviously liked the three-month truce in the U.S-China trade war. But what they liked most about it is the fact it represents at least a temporary halt to U.S protectionist policies. The value of free trade has again been affirmed - and the folly of protectionism has again been exposed.

Clearly it was President Trump who blinked. Essentially, President Xi got exactly what he wanted, at least for now: A reprieve from Trumps announced increase in tariffs come January on $200 billion worth of goods (slated to rise to 25 percent) and imposition of 10 percent tariffs on all remaining Chinese goods.

But what did Trump get in return? Not much. The Chinese agreed to hold off on its own retaliatory tariff increases - which China had threatened only to push back against U.S tariff threats. So far, China has accomplished exactly that, so it is not at all surprising that it is pulling back its own projected tariff increases. In other words, after months of huffing and puffing about more tariff increases, the U.S trade strategy viz a viz China has thus far produced nothing.

The mutual halt in tariff increases represents a clear setback for Trumps trade strategy, which is very much based on the notion that the threat of barriers to the lucrative U.S market would be sufficient to bludgeon China, given its large trade surplus with the United States. Turns out that trade wars are not easy, even for countries with large trade deficits, and not good for anyone, least of all American farmers and other exporters facing retaliatory Chinese tariffs. If trade wars were either good or easy, why would Trump agree to a ceasefire?

It is true that President Xi made vague promises to increase imports from the United States, especially in agricultural goods, and to discuss protection of intellectual property, technology transfer, and Chinas state-driven industrial and investment policies. But China made no specific promises about dollar amounts re import increases. And China has for a long time talked about talking about intellectual property and technology transfer. Moreover, China has once again made it clear that it will continue to pursue state-run industrial and investment policies.

Unquestionably, the truce is good news - better a cold trade war than a hot one. But is it just a fake peace, and will the shooting start again in three months, with both sides implementing increased trade tariffs? Or will the result be another truce, and then another, ultimately leading to a virtual disintegration of Trumps protectionist trade strategy?

What the temporary halt to the U.S-China trade war demonstrates more than anything else is a recognition in Washington that trying to bully China with threats of higher tariffs is at best a steep climb. It proves once again that threats of tariff increases are not the potent weapon the White House seemed to think it was.

It should now be clearer than ever that the only way to win a trade war is not to start one. And the only way to please the Street - and pursue economic growth - is through more open markets, not closed ones.Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale

Buy real estate. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale in US and Canada.

Search Real EstateBy Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 12/03/2018



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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

featured two couples reaching a breaking point in their relationship and Ashley Martson and Jay Smith being subjected to racist comments and threats during Sunday night's Season 6 episode on TLC.features couples separated by land and sea bringing the foreign fiances to the United States so they can tie the knot within 90 days. Otherwise, the American individuals risk losing love and having their significant others return to their home countries.Season 6 of stars Steven Frend , a 20-year-old from Bowie, MD, and Olga Koshimbetova , a 20-year-old from Russia; Ashley, a 31-year-old from Mechanicsburg, PA, and Jay, a 20-year-old from Port Maria, Jamaica; and Colt Johnson , a 33-year-old from Las Vegas, NV, and Larissa Christina Dos Santos Lima , a 31-year-old from Brazil.The remaining couples are Jonathan Rivera , a 32-year-old from Lumberton, NC, and Fernanda Flores , a 19-year-old from Mexico; Kalani Faagata , a 29-year-old from Orange County, CA, and Asuelu Pulaa , a 23-year-old from Samoa; and Eric Rosenbrook , a 40-year-old from Baraboo, WI, and Leida Margaretha , a 29-year-old from Indonesia.Below is the latest on each couple, according to the new episode:Larissa and Colt's search for the perfect wedding venue was "a disaster," according to Colt, so he attempted to make it up to her by looking for a one-bedroom apartment of their own. Larissa didn't want to live with Colt's mother any more since her fiance is a grown man."Debbie is a like a cat. She disappear but she appear when's the time to make your life hell," Larissa told the cameras."She tried to seem really nice, but she likes to manipulate the situation to be the victim and I be the evil one. I can't live with the situation anymore."While the couple found a furnished loft-style apartment they loved for a little over $3,000 a month, Colt told Larissa he needed to talk to his mother and make sure she would be okay living alone.Larissa lacked understanding and empathy, and Colt pointed out she couldn't make him choose between the two women in his life. Colt had also told Larissa that he took care of his mother when they began dating.Debbie later told her son that he shouldn't feel tied down to living with her or taking care of her and she could stay in a senior-living community. Larissa said she'd simply feel more comfortable in a place of her own with Colt.Debbie was very upset because she had been living with Colt for 33 years, but she didn't show it. Colt didn't know what to do, because a part of him wanted to find a house with an in-law apartment or have Debbie live next door.A couple months into Jay's stay in the United States, Ashley was looking forward to their wedding, but they needed to work on their issues first.Ashley was having trouble trusting Jay because he often texted with random girls and left the house without informing her first, but Jay vented about how he needed to be free to come and go as he pleased.However, Jay apologized after sleeping on the couch and said, "I should have told her I was leaving."Jay said it felt good to overcome the argument and he was ready and willing to go the extra mile to make Ashley happy and make things work with her. The couple just needed to improve their communication.Ashley then brought Jay to their wedding venue at barn, and he thought it was really nice but not too upscale. Ashley already had their wedding planned out because she didn't want to feel all that stress once Jay arrived in the United States.Ashley then discovered there were hundreds of negative, racist comments on the couple's wedding website. Not only did people drop the "N-word" multiple times, but some people even referred to Jay as a monkey.There were also threats of violence from people who disapproved of their union. Ashley wasn't used to this behavior since Jay was the first black man she ever dated, and she asked her fiancA to always be "on alert.""It's really hurtful. This is supposed to be the happiest time in our life... and this is making me question everything we're doing from here on out," Ashley said."These comments make me feel really angry and make me want to go back to Jamaica and not be in America no more," Jay told the cameras.Fernanda went shopping for a wedding dress with Jonathan's supportive sister, Jackie, but his mother was running late. Fernanda was disappointed about Ceci's reluctance to come because she was all alone in America, without her own mother and loved ones."I want to show her I am a good decision for Jonathan," Fernanda told Jackie.Ceci was hesitant to show up because she said the wedding was happening quickly and it was a lot to process, but since her son was getting married regardless of her own opinion, it was important to be supportive of his fiancee.Fernanda tried on a few dresses. While one had a sparkly bodice with opals and crystals and a ballgown skirt, Fernanda seemed to like two gowns that were more conservative and sophisticated better.In the end, Fernanda chose a long-sleeve dress with sparkles along the waist and a low-cut back that the store called its "Jackie O" gown. Fernanda cried when she picked her dress because her mother wasn't there.Ceci realized how hard this must be for Fernanda, so she gave the girl a hug and did her best to be there for her.Steven acknowledged his temper had flared up and the fighting needed to stop because he wanted his son, Richie, to grow up in a happy household and healthy environment. Olga agreed, saying they should focus on improving their relationship.Steven decided to take Olga and his son to a park, but tension heightened again when the couple struggled to put the baby in his car seat. Since the baby was sleeping, she just wanted to stay near their home and walk him around in a stroller.The couple continued to disagree, but they were first-time parents and barely knew each other, so there was a lot of work to be done.Steven admitted Olga didn't seem to realize or appreciate all that he was doing for her and their baby. He was running around, cleaning their house and picking up groceries and prescriptions. Steven felt way out of his comfort zone.Steven told Olga that she no longer seemed excited to have him around, but she said it wasn't fair for him to expect her to be "super happy" after she just had an operation. Steven said Olga forgot about her relationship because she always put the baby first and didn't care about his needs.Olga figured Steven was jealous of all the attention she was paying to their child, but she found that time with Richie completely necessary as a new mom. The conversation left Olga in tears and Steven saying the future of their relationship was unclear.Steven questioned if Olga loved him and cared about him, and he resorted back to the pain he felt in his childhood. Olga feared moving to the United States and being completely alone with no family or friends if things didn't work out.Eric and Leida had to plan a wedding in two months although they were still working through their problems, such as the fact Leida did not know Eric had been covering the rent for his daughter Tasha for a while.Leida revealed her first wedding in Indonesia was huge, as she had over 2,000 guests in a five-star hotel and the event cost her family around $300,000.This time, Eric was paying for the wedding, and he was only able to set aside a few thousand dollars for their nuptials. The pair therefore looked at an inexpensive and simple hotel ballroom.There were 25 people coming to the wedding, and those guests were going to be Eric's family and friends. Leida revealed her family would not be coming to the ceremony because they didn't approve of her relationship.While one might assume Leida would be heartbroken over the fact her family couldn't come, she was actually happy and relieved, telling the cameras they would just complain about how Eric wasn't good enough for her.With the wedding being a few weeks away, Leida was hoping the florist would "up" her wedding game. The couple's budget, however, was very modest at $400, and so the florist warned Leida there would be arrangements of white roses but not much else.Leida was disappointed because she wanted more decorations with a bigger and more colorful venue. She complained that if Eric wasn't paying child support, he would be able to afford more for their wedding.Leida hoped Eric would double or even triple their budget for the florist, and in the end, Eric gave in and chose to double the flower budget.The couple then shopped for a new bed and a couch, and the experience once again led to an argument. Eric thought the furniture was too expensive and Leida simply needed to accept that."He just really let me down and I feel like I've been lied to," Leida said in a confessional."This situation makes me mad with Eric. I was promised that will [will have] happiness through hard work. Hard work, okay? You earn more. I'm finally understanding he doesn't make enough to provide for me and my son... What am I doing here? I've been disappointed with him all the time."Leida just wasn't happy with the way they were living, and she noted Allessandro needed a better life in the United States -- or their life in America was "not wanted."Leida threatened to give back her engagement ring and call off their wedding, and Eric said it was "heartbreaking" and felt "horrible." Eric seemed to think Leida was not going to give up her "selfish" ways.Kalani complained about how Asuelu didn't have great parenting skills and said she was still having "serious doubts" about getting married.Kalani, however, still had plans to go shopping for a wedding dress with her sister Kolini, nicknamed "Lini." Lini continued to have reservations about Kalani's relationship since she was a protective sister.Kalani had nothing planned for the wedding, and reality was sinking in that her big day might actually be happening."I just feel rush and panicked, and it's kind of taking the joy out of everything," Kalani told the cameras.When Kalani tried on an off-the-shoulder lace ballgown that she loved, she seemed upset and worried. She wanted to make sure Asuelu was on the same page before going ahead with a purchase.Kalani determined she didn't want to commit to a dress just yet, and her mother Lisa disclosed her daughter struggles with commitment in many aspects of her life. Lisa noted decisions had to be made.Kalani, Kolini and Asuelu later enjoyed lunch out together, and Asuelu admitted he loved the fact Kalani was American because he had always dreamed about living in the United States. Asuelu, however, insisted he loved Kalani and her personality and there was a lot more to their relationship.Asuelu then complained that Kalani didn't really like his family, but she pointed out that his brother had said something disgusting to her -- about wanting to have sex with her -- and never apologized for it. Kalani also reminded Asuelu that she brought Oliver to Samoa so his parents could meet him.Asuelu stormed out of the restaurant, giving Kolini more reason to think their relationship was dysfunctional and Kalani shouldn't marry him.By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 12/03/2018



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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

star Larissa Christina Dos Santos Lima is addressing her feud with her fellow Season 6 cast members.Larissa has squabbled with Jay Smith , and more on social media in recent weeks, and she and Colt opted out of spending time with their castmates during a weekend trip to New York City last month to film the Tell All special.Well, Larissa has finally broken her silence on the tension by posting an image on Instagram that reads, "Real queens fix each other's crowns."Larissa then explained the situation to fans in the Instagram post's caption."I have just one thing to say about other cast members' passive-aggressive behavior. I stopped talking to them," the 31-year-old Brazilian native wrote."I blocked them and will continue looking forward. I'll keep my behavior to not talk about their personal life, no matter if it's in the public eye. I know who I am and what I am worth and other lives just matter if I can help or give encouragement."Larissa then revealed in an Instagram Story her biggest problem is with Fernanda, who allegedly criticized the mother of two for leaving her children back in Brazil to live with Colt in the United States, according to In Touch Weekly."Nothing against her. I just saw her twice in my life. I wish them the happiness and a happily ever after (all cast). I just [don't] understand why she continues to talk and throw shade at me in regards to my personal affairs," Larissa reportedly wrote."When you don't agree with someone, it is simple to block and keep living, right? It is what I did and what I'll continue to do. When someone doesn't leave my personal life alone, it is their problem, not mine anymore."After Larissa blocked Jay and his fiancee Ashley Martson on social media, Jay also insulted Larissa on Instagram."Larissa blocked me and Ash... I guess after seeing us with Ashley's kids nonstop she couldn't handle the fact that she can't even take care of hers," Jay, 20, wrote in an Instagram Story last week, In Touch reported. Poor excuse of a woman . I hope your -ss gets deported with your domestic violence stupideeee -ss."Not only did Jay strike a nerve with his comment about Larissa's kids and her recent arrest for domestic violence following a big fight with Colt in their home, but he also apparently made fun of her accent and broken English. As fans are well aware, Larissa pronounces Colt's name as "Coltee."Last month, Larissa opened up about why she didn't bring either of her children to America with her earlier this year.Larissa wrote in an Instagram post that after leaving nursing school, she lived with her then-boyfriend -- Marcos Hack, according to In Touch -- for two years and welcomed a son before they had a bad breakup.Marcos allegedly did not pay child support and Larissa found herself "financially and emotionally unable to take care of" her son, so she decided to let his aunt adopt him."She was always there for me and she loved him very much. This decision still breaks my heart today... It is a regret that I have to live with," Larissa explained.A few years after her failed romance with Marcos, Larissa said she entered a relationship with a different man and the former couple eventually welcomed a daughter together.Larissa explained she had attempted to take care of her daughter by working a minimum-wage job at a clothing store with no help from her ex, but by that time, she had repaired her relationship with her father and he agreed to take care of the little girl."I plan to bring her to live with us very soon. I wanted to try my life here with Colt first, I want to move to a 'biggie house' and make sure the relationship will work out before I bring her. I also want to open my business to be able to support my daughter," she insisted.If an AR-15 in 7.6239 excites you, then the news of the new Gen 2 KS47 from Palmetto State Armory should catch your attention. The AK mag fed platform has recently been improved over the earlier Gen 1 KS47 while retaining compatibility.

Currently, Palmetto State Armory is offering the Gen 2 KS47 in four configurations, two rifles, and two pistols.

Starting with the top of the line Gen 2 KS47 with 16 barrel, they have fitted an MOE stock, MOE pistol grip, enhanced EPT trigger group, and an M-LOK compatible handguard. This configuration will set you back $919.99 MSRP, but the rifle is on sale currently for $699.99.

If a more value priced option is what you are looking for, the classic Gen 2 KS47 with 16 barrel is priced $100 cheaper than the top of the line model at $599.99 on sale. Instead of all the nice things you get on the top of the line rifle, this one has a fixed front sight post, mil-spec trigger, and mil-spec furniture. Functional, but I like my M-Lok.

If you happen to miss the sale, the MSRP of this configuration is $799.99.

As one would expect, PSA also offers versions with pistol braces installed like the premium Gen 2 KS47 pistol with an SBA3 SB Tactical brace. Both configurations of the pistol sport 10.5 barrels with carbine length gas systems.

In addition to the SBA3 brace, the premium pistol also has a 9 lightweight M-LOK compatible handguard, Magpul MOE grip, and PSA's enhanced EPT trigger. MSRP for the premium pistol comes in at $949.99, but again, Palmetto has them on sale currently for $699.99.

The classic model Gen 2 KS47 pistol is kitted out much the same as the classic model rifle with the exception of the Shockwave Blade stabilizer instead of the M4 stock found on the rifle. Like before, the classic pistol has a 10.5 1:10 twist barrel, an A2 style flash hider, A2 grip, and mil-spec trigger group.

The classic pistol will set you back $809.99 MSRP if you miss the sale on them currently where the pistol is priced at $599.99.

So what changes did Palmetto State Armory make to the KS47 that they felt the Gen 2 KS47 was needed?

A heavy buffer was used with a stiffer AR-10 buffer spring. PSA says this should improve feeding in less than ideal conditions.



Palmetto also reprofiled two of the bolt lugs to prevent any damage to magazine feed lips.

Also to protect the magazine, PSA added two magazine stops into the upper that prevent over insertion as well as keeping the mag from creeping up into the bolt's path.

The new feedramp is much more reminiscent of the AK's large single feedramp. This should improve reliability with a wider range of magazines.

Palmetto State Armory does warn in the below video that some aftermarket trigger that is designed as a self-contained unit like the CMC trigger, Velocity, Rise Armament, and others, may have fitment issues due to the magazine catch spring. PSA does say that if you stick with a more traditional trigger like a Geissele or non-self contained unit, you will be fine.

You can check out the YouTube video below for more information about the new Palmetto State Armory Gen 2 KS47 pistols and rifles or visit the links in the above article. If you would like to see all of the models currently being offered, make sure to visit the Palmetto State Armory website.As the signs come down and the stickers are peeled off, election season is drawing to a close. With local representatives and governors raceThe University of Georgia has longer school years and less breaks than other institutions in the southeast. To improve the mental health of its students, UGA must give students more breaks from classes.Devrangi Bohra. a 20-year-old statistics major at the University of Georgia, heads back to her dorm on Thursday, Nov. 15, 2018 in Athens, Ga. Bohra, originally from Alpharetta, Ga., said It is nice being back in Athens, but plans to head home for the break. (Photo/Sidhartha C. Wakade, wakade98@gmail.com)Finance Minister Arun Jaitley revealed that the government wanted to give Hasmukh Adhia a post-retirement role, but Dr Adhia said he would not work for a single day after November 30.

Arup Roychoudhury reports.

IMAGE: Dr Hasmukh Adhia, who retired as revenue secretary on November 30, giving a yoga lecture in September 2016. Photographs: Kind courtesy Hasmukh Adhia/youtube

Hasmukh Adhia, who retired as India's revenue secretary on Friday, November 30, is moving to Ahmedabad -- quite unusual for a top bureaucrat who has been at the centre of things from demonetisation to the goods and services tax.

Known to be among Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi's favourite officers, the 1981 batch Gujarat cadre Indian Administrative Service officer has surprised many by not sticking around in the capital waiting for a plum post-retirement posting.

The man once tipped to be the Cabinet secretary is clearly looking to break away from the past.

People who know him describe Dr Adhia as quiet and dignified. He does not socialise much beyond work, one of his colleagues said.

It was his work that gave Dr Adhia prominence as the principal secretary to then Gujarat chief minister Modi. His shift to Delhi soon after Modi became the PM in 2014 and his subsequent rise to the top rank in the finance ministry all seemed only logical.

What changed for Dr Adhia then that he's moving back to Gujarat?

Allegations made by the Bharatiya Janata Party's Rajya Sabha member Dr Subramanian Swamy may have been responsible for the shift, according to sources in the government.

Dr Swamy alleged that Dr Adhia had a role in the Punjab National Bank scam and had helped Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi flee the country.

He also alleged that Dr Adhia had tried to save former finance minister P Chidambaram in the Aircel-Maxis case by terminating Enforcement Directorate officer Rajeshwar Singh's services.

In addition, a news report made allegations that Dr Adhia had received expensive Diwali gifts in 2016. While he had them sent to the government's toshakhana as per procedure, no probe was ordered on who had sent the gifts, the report had claimed.

Even as the allegations may have damaged his career, which many thought had several years left still, Dr Adhia is unlikely to write a memoir or a tell-all book, his colleagues quoted above said.

Instead, he will devote time to the study of spirituality. Dr Adhia holds a doctorate in yoga from Bangalore University.

In four years as secretary in the finance ministry, first in charge of the financial services department and then the revenue department, Dr Adhia has overseen many initiatives of the Modi government including GST.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, in a farewell blog for Dr Adhia, called him a highly competent, disciplined and no-nonsense civil servant of impeccable integrity.

The government wanted to give him a post-retirement role, but Dr Adhia said he would not work for a single day after November 30, Jaitley added, in an indication that the bureaucrat has had his stint.

Over to yoga and spirituality now.Qatars Energy Minister Saad Sherida al-Kaabi on Monday announced that Qatar will withdraw from the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries in January 2019.

Qatar Petroleum while confirming the withdrawal, tweeted, Qatar announces it was withdrawing from the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries effective 1 January 2019.

Qatar joined the organisation consisting of 15 oil producing countries in 1962.

While addressing a press conference, al-Kaabi stated that the decision was taken as Qatars wants to focus its efforts to increase its natural gas production, reported Al Jazeera.

Achieving our ambitious growth strategy will undoubtedly require focused efforts, commitment and dedication to maintain and strengthen Qatars position as the leading natural gas producer, he added.

The decision comes days before the OPEC meeting which is scheduled to be held on December 6.

OPEC, headquartered in Vienna, Austria, accounted for half of the global oil production and around 80 per cent of the world proven oil reserve.The best of Bollywood fashion.

Bollywood had a busy November, with a huge chunk of dates being blocked for various parties and red carpets.

The month saw a lot of lovely fashion as film folk made that extra effort to shine.

It's been a tough job, but we pick some of the best dressed folk.

Like their dress sense? Tell us in the message board below!

Kriti Sanon aces the sari look at Karan Johar's house party.

Kareena Kapoor Khan dazzles in silver at the Mowgli premiere.

Photograph: Kind courtesy Shilpa Shetty/Instagram

Shilpa Shetty knows how to make a holiday look good!

The gorgeous actress looked absolutely stunning on her Maldives holiday, where she celebrated her wedding anniversary with husband Raj Kundra.

Jacqueline Fernandez shows off some leg on the red carpet at the Lux Golden Rose awards.

There's no such thing as too many silver roses for Taapsee Pannu.

It's baby fashion steps for Vicky Kaushal, but he seems to be learning well.

Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh complement each other well, in personality as well as well as colours, as they get clicked for the first time in Mumbai, as man and wife.

Shraddha Kapoor finds a new place to party, and she makes her look rock it.

Mouni Roy gets Diwali ready as she steps out for a party with her telly gang.

Sonakshi Sinha looks fresh in yellow as she mingles at Arpita Khan Sharma's Diwali party.

Frieda Pinto makes a striking picture at the Mowgli's world premiere in Mumbai.

Pooja Hegde turns on the heat at Shilpa Shetty's Diwali party.

Like Karan Johar's style? And his black shoes?

Bhumi Pednekar gets bold on the 20th Jio MAMI Mumbai film festival red carpet.

Tara Sutaria looks gorgeous at her 23rd birthday party. We will see more of her in Karan Johar's Student Of The Year 2.

Priyanka Chopra looks like a thousand bucks as she puts on her best airport look till date.

It's not everyday a girl catches a flight to her wedding destination!

Photographs: Pradeep Bandekar'Even if the Congress bags two of the three heartland states in the assembly round, the BJP may still get the majority of Lok Sabha seats in these states,' predicts T N Ninan.

IMAGE: Congress President Rahul Gandhi, left, and Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi, right, at election rallies. Photographs: PTI Photo

It is inevitable that the results of the assembly elections in the three heartland states of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh will be seen as a foretaste of the Lok Sabha election, due six months hence. But the pundits had better be careful, for state and national elections should not be conflated.

In particular, there is the Modi factor in a parliamentary election, which is what helped the Bharatiya Janata Party corner a higher share of the popular vote in Lok Sabha 2014 compared to the assembly elections six months earlier in 2013.

This time, too, the assembly elections are influenced heavily by state-level issues like regional drought, while the Lok Sabha election can be expected to be more of a leader-influenced contest -- a repeat of 2014.

Simply put, the BJP is on a better wicket in parliamentary elections than in state elections.

The general drift of current punditry is that the Congress is ahead in Rajasthan, while locked in close contests with the BJP in MP and Chhattisgarh. If correct, this would mean a substantial shift in voter behaviour when compared to the last round of assembly elections in these states, in 2013.

But it remains an open question how much of a difference that would make when it comes to the parliamentary elections in May.

The numbers tell the story. In 2013, the BJP got 45 per cent of the assembly vote in MP, the Congress 36 per cent. A 4 to 5 per cent swing in voting behaviour could mean a big change from the 2013 seat tally of 165 to the BJP and 58 to the Congress.

The question is, would that change the picture for the Lok Sabha polls? Perhaps not, for two reasons: First, the BJP got a much bigger share (55 per cent) of MP's popular vote in Lok Sabha 2014 while the Congress vote took a marginal dip.

A 5 to 7 per cent swing towards the Congress will not make much difference in May: The BJP will still be well ahead. It won't bag 26 of 29 seats, as in 2014, but it could walk away with the lion's share.

It could be a different story in Rajasthan where, in the 2013 assembly elections, the voting split was 45 per cent for the BJP and 33 per cent for the Congress. A few months later, in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP vote share was up to 51 per cent while the Congress share dipped to 30 per cent.

If the pundits are right, that the Congress is well ahead in the current assembly election, implying a vote swing of perhaps 8 to 10 per cent away from the BJP, it would be enough to make a difference in the Lok Sabha elections as well though the contest would be closer in May than now.

Certainly, the 25-to-0 seat split of 2014 will not be repeated.

What of the third state, Chhattisgarh? In 2013, the BJP-Congress contest was almost a tie. The BJP got 41 per cent of the vote and the Congress 40 per cent, enough of a difference to give the BJP got the majority of seats.

But when it came to the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the vote split was a more divergent 49 to 38, and the BJP bagged 10 of the 11 seats.

If the current assembly contest is too close to call, and the Modi factor operates in May, it could signal a healthy BJP performance in the parliamentary elections.

The bottom line is this: If the voting pattern in the current round of assembly elections turns out to be as predicted by polls and pundits, with a swing towards the Congress in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, that need not automatically mean a similar outcome in these states and Chhattisgarh when parliamentary elections come round in May.

Even if the Congress bags two of the three states in the assembly round, the BJP may still get the majority of the Lok Sabha seats in these states, though nowhere near the one-sided 2014 score of 61 out of 65.'The whispers and the murmurs had reached even the king's private quarters.'

'Of a royal surgeon wielding a chain-saw like a carpenter; a chemist with a cannister of acid; the royal chief executioner instructing someone about the fine art of handling swords...'

'All this being supervised by Mohammed's closest confidant.'

B S Prakash glances at the Jamal Khashoggi killing, two months after the dastardly deed.

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh/Rediff.com

The king was not feeling well.

He knew the Arabic version of the saying 'Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown' -- something to the effect that 'Sand inevitably gets into the royal gown'. Still, he was feeling particularly despondent today.

His media advisor -- a PhD in English from Harvard no less, a nephew who had been sworn to tell the truth and not hide the facts, however unpalatable -- had told him, trembling with trepidation, that Western analysts were concluding that the king had 'dementia' or 'growing senility' and was incapable of decisions concerning the kingdom.

The previous night, nightmares had haunted His Majesty.

They featured that snake Erdogan, the current sultan of Turkey. King Salman had learnt in his young days, sitting in the lap of his father, King Abdul Aziz, the very founder of the nation, that the Turks were enemies of the Arabs.

Had not the Ottoman empire ruled over even Mecca and Medina till the First World War?

What was Erdogan now trying to do to his crown prince, his dear, beloved Mohammed?

As he thought of his favorite son, the king sighed. The doctors had advised him to recall only pleasant memories and he tried to bring back fond images.

Mohammed as a young boy -- how he pelted stones accurately at royal horses. They -- the horses and courtiers -- were always afraid of him.

Or the revered maulvi who used to come to the palace for Arabic lessons. How Mohammad loved to pull his beard!

Or the time Mohammed crashed King Fahd's favorite Ferrari at the tender age of 14 and regaled his cousins about how his uncle then crown Prince Abdullah had gotten angry.

Oh, Mohammed, you were always so naughty and had that endearing streak of cruelty, so befitting of princes, the king thought.

But had Mohammed gone too far this time?

Why take so much interest in a commoner, that too a mere journalist, writing for some Washington newspaper?

In one of his lucid moments, the king had asked his son: 'Can't you just silence that Jamal Khashoggi? Buy him off? Or buy his wretched paper? Why does he bother you so much? Just shut him up.'

'That is what I am trying to do, father,' MbS had replied, except that the king did not take him so literally.

'He is just a hack. Can't you ignore him?' the king had suggested.

'How do you expect me to accept criticism from a Saudi?' MbS had gone on. 'I thought he was okay. He even praised me for opening up the kingdom and clamping down on the mutawa , the religious police. So, I started seeing his columns in the Washington Post. But I soon realised how dangerous he was.'

'He started giving me advice about how to run the country, how to allow people to express their opinion. Even that, I digested. But he started objecting to the Yemenis being bombed. He wrote that we had wronged Qatar. Imagine! He had to be silenced, but he was hiding in the US or in Turkey. That was the problem.'

'Oh, I see. But all this was in the American newspapers. It is not as if Trump or Pompeo or anyone here takes them seriously,' the king said, quite coherently, he thought, despite his mind getting cloudy.

'Your majesty, my dear father, you are 86 years old. The world has changed. The Internet and Facebook has invaded our land and we can no longer ban them. Nor can Trump, despite his intentions. What the world thinks of us, of me, matters.'

'I have worked so hard to be seen as a liberal, transparent, young reformer. As the crown prince who liberated Saudi women overnight and created an entire new market segment for BMW with a feminist styling. As an economic genius with a vision 2030 for the kingdom where manufacturing and innovation would flourish and Apple and Intel compete to establish their Arab HQ.'

'And here comes Khashoggi trying to taint my name with talk of human rights and press freedom. He had to be stopped. Will no one rid me of this meddlesome hack?'

The king recalled with what fervour and anguish the crown prince had cried out.

Oh, the palace had not known peace since then.

All the hushed confabulations. The whispers and the murmurs had reached even the king's private quarters.

Of a royal surgeon in a white coat wielding a chain-saw like a carpenter; of a chemist with a cannister of burning acid; of how the royal chief executioner from Jeddah's chopping square instructed someone about the fine art of handling swords; all this supervised by Mohammed's closest confidant.

'Is it really so difficult to kill a man, and that too in a foreign land? Don't the Russians do it regularly and that too in Western lands? Why didn't we contract it out to them for a tidy sum? What is money meant for?' the king thought of asking his son.

As if on cue, the royal chief of protocol entered and announced that MbS was waiting to greet his father.

'At once, bring him,' was the king's command.

With a swish and flurry of his resplendent robes, Mohammed strode in.

'Sabah al-khair, Father,' the strapping crown prince greeted his father. 'Why are you still looking so worried? Everything will be all right, God be praised,' MbS declared with his customary confidence.

'You mean Khashoggi is still alive?'

'I am glad to see that you still have a sense of humour, father. No, even America cannot manage that. But I had a word with Jared Kushner and he assures me that he will manage everything.'

'Don't trust the Jews, my son. This has been our ancient wisdom. What is his advice?'

'Jared told me to pin it on the Iranians. To produce some evidence that the principal assassin was actually an Iranian double agent who had penetrated our royal household. It was all an Iranian plot to besmirch the fair name of Saudi Arabia and to poison our relations with America.'

'"Do this", Jared told me and "leave the rest to us".'

The agent at the CIA headquarters in Langley, Virginia, listening to the conversation between father and son, looked perplexed. His manual did not contain instructions on how to handle 'material' relating to the Kushners, either Ivanka or Jared.

B S Prakash, a former Ambassador of India, served in Saudi Arabia. His earlier columns can be accessed here.'It is true that we changed our opinion.'

'I feel the BJP or any other political party is guilty of not understanding the real mood of the people.'

IMAGE: V Muraleedharan, the Bharatiya Janata Party MP from Kerala, fourth from left, offers prayers at the Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala.

After Alphons Kannanthanam, the Union minister of state for tourism, it was V Muraleedharan, the Rajya Sabha member and former president of the Bharatiya Janata Party's Kerala state unit, who visited Sabarimala along with Nalin Kumar Kateel, followed by Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan.

From Sabarimala, Muraleedharan came to Thiruvananthapuram where he has an MP's office where he spoke to Rediff.com's Shobha Warrier.

"The uniqueness of the temple is that the rituals for the particular deity and the devotees who have to go there were decided by God, and not by anybody else," says Muraleedharan, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Maharashtra.

Did you have any interaction with the BJP's central leaders before deciding to go to Sabarimala? Or was it a personal visit?

Nalin Kateel and I know each other for a long time. He is also co-in charge of Kerala. This is not the first time that we were going to Sabarimala together.

In 2013, when I was the state BJP president, the party under the leadership of Prakash Javdekar, had deputed a four-member team to visit Sabarimala. That included Javdekar himself, Pon Radhakrishnanji, Nalin Kateel and myself. So, the BJP has been interested in the welfare of Sabarimala.

This time also, we decided to go together to see how the facilities were at Sabarimala. We were hearing that the facilities for the devotees were very poor.

No, it was not directed by the central leadership.

You said you went there to only see the facilities available at Sabarimala. Alphons Kannanthanam also said the same thing. Does that mean the BJP is not affected by the events in Sabarimala?

The second reason why we went there was because we heard about the hardships faced by the pilgrims.

Section 144 was imposed at Sabarimala which was against the way this temple functioned.

This is not one temple where devotees go alone or with family; Ayyappas go in big groups.

You cannot declare 144 in a religious place like Sabarimala and say that more than four people should not go together.

Do you feel that from the time the Supreme Court gave the verdict till now, those who are in charge do not understand the traditions and rituals of Sabarimala?

I am convinced about that.

There are five aspects to Sabarimala: God, the form of the particular deity, rituals associated with the pratishta (installation), those who manage the affairs of the temple and finally the devotees.

The uniqueness of the temple is that the rituals for the particular deity and the devotees who have to go there were decided by God, and not by anybody else.

The deity is said to be an eternal celibate and the devotees are also expected to be celibate for 41 days.

Ayurveda experts say that according to Ashtanga Hridaya, the prakruti (nature) of a person changes in 41 days.

You have to understand that nobody is talking about menstruation as impure here. Somehow, some people are creating the impression that it is because menstruation is impure that women between 10 and 50 are not allowed. It is not true.

Those who make a noise against Sabarimala should understand that this is a particular tradition confined to this one Ayyappa temple alone. There are hundreds and hundreds of Ayyappa temples in Kerala.

It is only because of the pratishta that this kind of a restriction is there at Sabarimala.

When the Supreme Court verdict on Sabarimala came, the BJP and the Congress supported it, but when devotees started coming out onto the streets, your opinion changed. Why?

It is true that we changed our opinion. That is why I feel the BJP or any other political party is guilty of not understanding the real mood of the people.

But it is not just public sentiment alone that changed our stand. Yes, public sentiment was an eye-opener. It prompted us to look into the real reasons behind the tradition of Sabarimala. That was when we understood why the temple was unique.

When you are not aware of the details of certain things, you should try to learn it.

But the state government and those who are in favour of the entry of women between the ages of 10 and 50 are still not ready to learn.

In a way, we also committed a mistake by supporting the verdict initially without understanding the actual facts.

IMAGE: Muraleedharan, second from right, meets the tanthri (head priest) of the Sabarimala temple.

Is the BJP now taking advantage of the situation for political gain?

Political parties associate themselves with the views of the people to increase their influence.

Every political party looks at situations as a good opportunity. There is nothing wrong in it. It means we should be in touch with people and support them.

It is not that the BJP started the issue or the movement. Because the BJP identifies with the views and sentiments of the people, we are with the people.

By being with the people, the BJP and its leaders can gain the confidence of the people.

If you say the BJP is taking advantage of the situation, I will say that poverty has been exploited by the CPM, too.

The Kerala government says the BJP and RSS are creating disturbances at Sabarimala...

The Hindu community of Kerala feels that the BJP and RSS alone can save the situation.

They feel the BJP is the only party that understood the uniqueness of the Sabarimala temple and has taken a stand accordingly.

At the same time, people feel the BJP central leadership has not done anything on this issue. There is total silence on their part.

There is no total silence. After the verdict, (BJP national president) Amit (Anilchandra) Shah came to Kannur and spoke on the Sabarimala issue. He asked the state government why they were aggressively pursuing the Supreme Court verdict when there were many court orders that were still not implemented.

He clearly expressed the stand of the BJP central leadership.

Yes, Subramanian Swamy first issued a statement supporting the verdict, but later, he said he did not know the real facts behind the temple.

It is true that some people feel the central government should intervene. That's what the Congress is demanding; they want the government to bring in an ordinance.

I want to ask them: Were they not screaming that the central government's intervention is against federal principles? How can the federal principles be given a go by in this case?

If this doesn't affect federal principles, let the state government and Opposition ask the central government to make a law.

Will the Congress be ready to support this law in Parliament?

This is not the view of the Congress's central leadership; this is the view of the Congress party in Kerala.

They want the BJP to bring in an ordinance. When we come out with an ordinance, they will hold a dharna in front of Raj Bhavan saying federal principles are being sacrificed.

Pilgrimage within the country is a state subject. Even if we were to use the Concurrent List, it has to be with the concurrence of the state. But is there a concurrence? No.

In the case of jallikkattu in Tamil Nadu, all the parties were united. There was concurrence on the issue, but here, there is no unanimity.

The central government doesn't want to intervene because it is not within their rights, it is also against federal principles.

The real reason why the state government wants to stop pilgrims from coming to Sabarimala is because they want to cover up their inefficiency in rebuilding Pampa after the floods.

IMAGE: Muraleedharan, third from right, along with other members of a BJP delegation present a memorandum to Kerala Governor P Sathasivam, third from left, December 2, 2018.

Many people in Kerala say the BJP only talks about the Ram temple, totally ignoring Sabarimala where millions of devotees go during the Makara Vilakku season.

This is not the first time the BJP is taking an interest in Sabarimala. Delegations from the Centre have been coming to Sabarimala from 2013, but nobody knew about it as we were in the Opposition.

So, it is not right to say that the BJP has ignored other temples.

We are supporting all those who are agitating in Sabarimala. Yes, we are not leading the agitation.

Who is leading the agitation then?

It is not led by any single individual or a political party.

Till now, we have only seen movements started by political parties in Kerala, but this time, Ayyappa devotees are leading the agitation.

Kerala has not seen a people's movement like this in recent times. It is like the jallikkattu movement in Tamil Nadu or the Cauvery agitation in Karnataka or the many farmers movements in other parts of India.

The biggest takeaway from the Sabarimala agitation, I feel, is that this will make all governments realise that Hindu sentiments cannot and should not be ignored.'We were supposed to be a united nation based on unity and diversity.'

'Now what we are doing is there will be a class called Marathas, Dangars, etc.'

'The 100 per cent of our nation's population will be in classes and you will be allocating the nation's education and service resources in terms of classes.'

'How does it work out in terms of equality? Where is your equal nation?'

IMAGE: Members of the Maratha community celebrate the passage of the Maratha Reservation Bill by the Maharashtra assembly at Azad Maidan in Mumbai. Photograph: PTI Photo

Last week, the Maharashtra government passed the Maratha Reservation Bill granting a 16 per cent quota in government jobs and educational institutes to Marathas as per the recommendations of the State Backward Class Commission.

The quota for Marathas has increased the overall reservations in Maharashtra to 68 per cent in jobs and education, leaving only 32 per cent accessible in the open category.

The Congress-Nationalist Congress Party had brought in the Maratha Reservation Bill in 2014, but the Supreme Court had rejected it.

Following this, the Maratha community came out on the streets and held 58 silent protest marches across the state, demanding reservations, causing a huge worry for the Bharatiya Janata Party-Shiv Sena government led by Devendra Fadnavis.

Now that the state government has once again passed the bill, will it also be challenged in court? And will the court once again reject the Maratha quota?

"By doing this you are now virtually reducing the open category to 32 per cent in Maharashtra, which is highly unfair to them," former Maharashtra advocate general Shrihari Aney tells Rediff.com's Syed Firdaus Ashraf.

16 per cent reservations for the Maratha community in education and jobs -- do you think it can be implemented?

It is possible as they (the Maharashtra government) seem to have the political will to implement it. Whether it is legally possible is another question.

If there are no legal hurdles, then it would be possible to implement such a move.

The courts had earlier rejected reservations for the Marathas. So, how is it that the government can once again grant the Marathas quotas?

The basis of rejection was entirely different then. The basis of reservation at that time was faulty.

The decision was not based on adequate inputs and on that ground the court was not inclined to consider it to be a valid legal decision. This time, those procedural lacunae have been overcome. So you cannot compare the two situations.

On what grounds did the court reject reservations for Marathas earlier?

In the earlier case, the reservation was granted in a double-barrel fashion to both Marathas and Muslims.

When you grant any reservation to anybody, there has to be an empirical search about whether the community to which the reservation is to be granted is indeed socially and educationally backward.

And if it is so, whether it deserves reservation as the only way by which their social and educational backwardness can be ameliorated.

Now these are methods which have to be gone into before reservations can be granted, and the previous (Congress-NCP) government had not done any of this.

They got a report from the Narayan Rane committee which was specially constituted to look into the Maratha reservation issue at that time (in 2014) and it was argued before the court, with certain amount of success, that when you already have a minority commission in place, then why is it that the commission is not making recommendations as required by certain Supreme Court judgments and why are you taking recourse through a non-official method of advice?

All those things cumulatively made the court observe that you should have proper inputs before you proceed to make reservations of this kind.

And by proper inputs, obviously, the court meant a proper committee should come in and an informed decision must be taken, which they have done this time around by appointing a committee.

This time, the minority commission was asked to submit a report and they have submitted a report, but at this moment we do not know the contents of the report. This could be one of the procedural flaws as they go along.

As it stands, based on that report, they have proceeded to this legislation and got the reservation passed.

Is that the reason the Marathas have been categorised as socially and educationally backward so it is easy to give them reservations?

As you know, the Constitution of India only recognises schedule castes and schedule tribes (for reservation). There is no such thing as Other Backward Classes as far as India's Constitution (is concerned), but it does recognise Article 15 which deals with educational backwardness and Article 16 which deals with inadequate representation of services in the state.

It does recognise social, cultural and educational backwardness as a factor which can be attended to or even ameliorated by providing some special concessions to such people. And taking a cue from this, the OBC class was born.

And this is not unique to Maharashtra, but is all over the country. Social and cultural backwardness and educational backwardness becoming the normative measures led to various categories being included in the OBC class.

What the Supreme Court says is that together with schedule castes, schedule tribes and OBCs, reservations ought not to exceed 50 per cent. So the exercise begins by trying to put them all in the 50 per cent group.

Now one of the flaws in the current scheme is that they have exceeded that percentage (to 68 per cent in Maharashtra). Now that is going to be a serious tipping point.

The Marathas -- had they been included in the OBC category -- would have actually cut into the reservations already provided for all the OBCs.

If that had happened, the OBCs would have protested the inclusion of Marathas. And in order to avoid that kind of conflict, this government has created a new class which is called educational and backward class.

Now what they have done is that they have created a fourth category for reservations which the Constitution doesn't recognise; not that the Constitution agrees with the third category like OBCs for reservations.

By doing this, you are now virtually reducing the open category to 32 per cent in Maharashtra, which is highly unfair to them.

If the Supreme Court has stipulated that reservations can't exceed 50 per cent, how come Tamil Nadu has 69 per cent reservations and now Maharashtra is reaching 68 per cent in jobs and education?

The Supreme Court never said 50 per cent reservations is God's word, like carved in stone. It said as far as possible reservations should be 50 per cent. So there is a certain flexibility there which could possibly permit movement.

Probably, the Maharashtra government can justify exceeding the 50 per cent reservation requirement, but the difference between Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra is that though in Tamil Nadu they have exceeded the reservations they took the trouble to get it passed through Parliament and got it put into the Ninth Schedule.

Now the Ninth Schedule is a part of the Constitution and when something is put in, then it can't be challenged as a violation of Fundamental Rights.

Now, the government of Maharashtra is not taking that route for the obvious reason -- the Centre doesn't have a majority in both Houses (of Parliament) as it did then when the law was passed for Tamil Nadu.

In the current scenario, I don't believe the ruling party -- the BJP -- has that kind of numerical strength in both the Houses.

Another reason is that the Tamil Nadu law had been operating forever and by the time the matter reached the Supreme Court, they were reluctant to interfere.

Therefore, the Tamil Nadu matter sustained, but the Rajasthan matter didn't when it went to the apex court and the Supreme Court granted a stay and this is where it stands.

Now even if the central government goes for the Ninth Schedule for Maratha reservations, then every other group in other states like Patels in Gujarat will come out and say that their community reservation too must be included in the reservation list.

It will be like opening a Pandora's Box and there will be agitations all over the country.

(Note: The Rajasthan government had passed a bill to raise reservations for OBCs from 21 per cent to 26 per cent. With this, the quota for jobs in government and the education sector increased to 54 per cent, thus crossing the ceiling of 50 per cent set by the Supreme Court. The five castes that were included for reservations were Gurjar, Banjara, Gadia-Lohar, Rebari and Gadaria.)

IMAGE: In August 2018, the Marathas staged a protest in Mumbai demanding quotas in government jobs and college admissions. Photograph: Shailesh Andrade/Reuters

This caste politics and opportunist reservations for votes looks like a very worrisome scenario for Indian society.

Of course, it is worrisome. You cannot stratify Indian society. In fact, it is the very antithesis of what our Constitution had set out to do.

We were supposed to be a united nation based on unity and diversity. Now what we are doing is there will be a class called Marathas, Dangars, etc.

The 100 per cent of our nation's population will be in classes and you will be allocating the nation's education and service resources in terms of classes.

How does it work out in terms of equality? Where is your equal nation?

Then we will have a sectarian nation and unfortunately, sectarian in its caste and in its religion.

When you have such a polity rising, then you have an antithesis of what the Constitution envisioned.

There is a feeling among intellectuals that India suffers from Brahminical domination in its bureaucracy and other fields.

That is stupidity. They are trying to stereotype the content of the opposition to reservations by calling it Brahminical.

They think that superior people are opposing reservation. And as things go, the superior people are Brahmins and therefore, the opposition to reservation is from Brahmins.

Even as I am speaking to you, I happen to be a Brahmin and when I argue the matter it will be viewed from that point.

It is very difficult to explain to people that the Constitution does not permit it and it has nothing to do with the fact that I am a Brahmin.

Isn't it true that all creme de la creme jobs have been taken up by Brahmins and other upper castes? And this needs to end for a just society.

That may be the situation and I see no reason why it should not be broken.

But the question is: Can you really divide society only on the basis of caste?

There may be a very strong case as to why 4 percent of the Brahmin population in the country should occupy almost 100 per cent of the top jobs.

There could be a very strong argument against it, no doubt, but that is a different argument from saying we will therefore divide the whole society on the basis of caste and distribute all the resources caste-wise or religion-wise. That does not make sense.

Can a politically powerful group like the Marathas be called socially and educationally backward?

That is one of the points that will be debated; why the report thinks Marathas are backward.

We earlier had a report in the form of the Narayan Rane committee which thought Marathas are backward, but nobody accepted that report as it was found that it was not coming from a level of authority.

Earlier, there were 10-year-old reports that found Marathas not to be backward so the questions that are being asked is what happened in the last 10 years that makes a forward community become backward.

So seriously speaking, there will be questions asked to justify the backwardness claim of the Marathas.

Having said that, I must say we must not confuse well-heeled Marathas with all the rest of the Marathas.

Do you think reservations and caste politics were further complicated by adding OBCs to the list?

OBCs did not exist and nowhere in the Constitution (reservation for OBCs) has been brought up.

But as I said, social and educational backwardness has been spoken of and concessions for that are available, which has converted itself into a class -- the OBC.

The Constitution says there can be no reservations on the basis of religion. Then how is it that some states are including Muslims in reservations?

The Maharashtra government is wrong when it says reservation for all Muslims as that may not be right, but within the Muslims there are clans and sub-class which deserves protection just like in Hindus.

Those should be afforded and that should not be a problem. It is not a religious reservation. It is for economical, social and educational status that would make them access reservations.

It is wrong to say all Muslims merely by virtue of being Muslim will be entitled to reservations. That does not work.

But Islam does not believe in casteism.

It does not believe, but the ground reality is different and they are downtrodden.

Let us not forget historical facts too -- that many Muslims in India originally have converted from (Hindu) lower castes.

They still continue to carry the lower caste (status) into the religion they went in.

Also, the social structure of the whole country is such that those who belong to the upper castes, irrespective of religion, still maintain distance from the lower classes.

In Kerala, you have separate queues for Brahmins, Christians and Dalit Christians.

The stratification of society is something quite different from what religion tries to say. The object of religion, however laudatory, the ground reality is quite different as people are distinguished on the basis of caste.The retired judge said the January 12 presser had an impact and things started changing for good during the remaining part of Justice Dipak Misra's tenure as CJI and is now continuing under the stewardship of the justice Gogoi.

IMAGE: Justice (rtrd) Kurian Joseph with the then Chief Justice of India Justice Dipak Misra during an event to contribute to the Kerala flood relief fund in New Delhi. Photograph: Ravi Choudhary/PTI Photo

Days after he retired, Justice Kurian Joseph, one of the four Supreme Court judges who held an unprecedented press conference in January, on Monday made a sensational claim that the previous Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra was working under some influence of an "external source", adding this impacted the administration of justice.

Justice Joseph along with three of the most senior judges of the apex court -- Justices J Chelameswar, who has since retired, Ranjan Gogoi, who is the current Chief Justice, and Madan Lokur -- staged an open revolt against justice Misra by convening the press conference on January 12 to flag their concerns about preferential allocation of sensitive cases to judges low down on the top court's hierarchy.

"The then CJI was working under some influence of some external source. He was remote-controlled by an external source. There was some influence of some external source that was impacting the administration of justice," justice Joseph told PTI.

Joseph retired on November 29.

Asked about the basis on which he was making his claim, Justice Joseph said this was the perception among the judges, who went public over issues dogging the apex court, as well as among other judges of the court.

He refused to elaborate on who the external source was and the cases where there was a bias and administration of justice affected.

Pressed again on whether the alleged influence was exerted by some political party or the government in any particular case, justice Joseph said the judges were only of the view that there was some bias by the judge concerned.

He said there was no need to make a reference to any particular case.

"I am sorry. I don't want to take it any forward," he said.

The retired judge, however, said the presser had an impact and things started changing for good during the remaining part of Justice Misra's tenure as CJI and is now continuing under the stewardship of the justice Gogoi.

Misra retired on October 2.

He said there was an improvement in the quality of the functioning of the court and the perception about the independence of the institution.

"All issues and changes the four senior judges were thinking at the January 12 press conference were started by CJI Misra and since it is the continuous process, the present CJI Ranjan Gogoi is taking it forward."

He also said the issues which have come now in the public domain are in the context of the same press conference.

He said before the presser, the four judges conveyed to justice Misra about the alleged influence of external sources on him, adding they had also flagged the issue of some cases being adjudicated with a perception of bias.

"Certainly, whatever the facts were with us at that time, we had conveyed it to the then CJI," he added.

Justice Joseph told NDTV that the former CJI wasn't taking decisions independently.

"We are sure that the Chief Justice was not taking decisions on his own," he said.

Justice Joseph said the decision to hold the press conference was taken after being sure that the then CJI was "under an external influence".

Asked about the Judge B H Loya case, justice Joseph said he cannot comment on it and that this chapter is now closed.

To a query as to who was remote-controlling justice Misra, justice Joseph said they "could not pinpoint who was behind". One instance that was pointed out at the press conference itself was the allocation of cases in the apex court.

The allocation of petitions seeking a re-investigation into the death of judge Loya -- as is commonly perceived -- was not the only reason for the press conference, he said.

"That was the issue on that day. Doesn't mean it was the only issue we were disturbed with. There were several issues... in the matter of allocation of cases and governance of the Supreme Court," he said.

The Supreme Court on April 19 rejected the PILs seeking probe into the death of special CBI judge B H Loya, ruling he had died of "natural causes".

Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, died of cardiac arrest in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleague's daughter.

BJP President Amit Shah was among others who were the accused in the case when he was the Minister of State for Home in Gujarat. Shah was subsequently discharged by a trial court.

On the issue of minority tag being a hindrance to career progression, justice Joseph told PTI, "I am totally talking about my own case as it was perceived that I became the Supreme Court judge only because I belonged to the minority community".

He said, "But this was not the case, as things became clear it was found that my appointment was on the basis of merit".

Justice Joseph also advocated that selection of judges in the higher judiciary be on the basis of merit and nothing else.Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Leader of the Opposition Ramesh Chennithala were on Monday involved in a war of words in the state assembly over the Sabarimala Temple issue, leading to disruption of House proceedings for the fourth day.

Three United Democratic Front MLAs also began an indefinite satyagraha at the entrance of the House on the issue.

As the war of words continued and Congress-led Opposition UDF MLAs began shouting slogans, the House was adjourned for the fourth day by Speaker P Sreeramakrishann.

Unlike previous days, the House even saw Communist Party of India-Marxist-led Left Democratic Front members standing up from their seats and locking horns with opposition members, prompting the Speaker to warn both sides.

As soon as the Question Hour began, Chennithala informed the Speaker that the opposition was ready to cooperate in conducting House proceedings.

He said three MLAs-V S Sivakumar (Congress), Parakkal Abdullah (IUML) and N Jayaraj (KC-M)-will observe an indefinite Satyagraha at the portals of the assembly as the government had not withdrawn prohibitory orders at Sabarimala and also demanding more facilities for pilgrims.

WATCH: Uproar in Kerala assembly over Sabarimala issue

The chief minister said he had thought the opposition would make such an announcement earlier itself in the light of the BJP having decided to shift its agitation in front of the Secretariat from Monday.

This is a collusion between the Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party-Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and a belated awakening, Vijayan said.

While the BJP was agitating in front of the secretariat, the Congress-led UDF MLAs were observing a Satyagraha at the Assembly, he said.

Taking a dig at the UDF, Vijayan even said they were following the stand taken by BJP chief Amit Shah rather than that of their leader Rahul Gandhi on the Sabarimala issue.

Hitting back at Vijayan, Chennithala said the opposition does not need the chief ministers permission to decide when to launch their agitation.

He alleged RSS leader Valsan Thillankeri had been given charge of the home department at Sabarimala to control the frenzied devotees last month when a 52-year-old woman was attacked at the hill shrine.

The leader also alleged an RSS outfit had been given charge of Annadanam, the free meal scheme at Sabarimala and C P Sugathan, who had protested against entry of young women, had been made joint convener of the Womens Wall, planned by the LDF government on January 1.

Stung by the chief ministers allegations, opposition members trooped to the well of the House and placed a black banner in front of the Speakers dais blocking his vision.

As they did not heed to the Speakers repeated requests to go back to their seats and continued to raise slogans against the chief minister, some angry members of the treasury bench even attempted to move to the well of the House but were dissuaded from doing so by the other ruling Front members.

An angry speaker hurriedly scrapped the submission and calling attention motions, took up other businesses and adjourned the House for the day within 21 minutes.

Opposition members later moved out of the assembly hall raising slogans.

The three MLAs later began the indefinite satyagraha at the portals of the assembly demanding the withdrawal of prohibitory orders and other restrictions imposed by the police in and around the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala.

Chennithala later told reporters the chief minister had allegedly passed on a chit to the Speaker asking him to stop the House proceedings to prevent the opposition from raising nepotism charges against local administration minister K T Jaleel.

The hill shrine of Lord Ayyappa has been witnessing protests by devotees and right-wing activists against the CPI-M-led LDF governments decision to implement the Supreme Courts September 28 verdict permitting women of all age groups to offer prayers at the temple.Navy chief Adm. Sunil Lanba said that by 2050, India will have 200 ships, 500 aircraft.

IMAGE: Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba at a press conference in New Delhi. Photograph: Manvender Vashist/PTI Photo

The government has approved induction of 56 new ships and six submarines to augment Indian navy's overall prowess while the country's first indigenous aircraft carrier Vikrant has entered its final phase of construction, navy chief Adm. Sunil Lanba said on Monday.

Addressing a press conference on the eve of Navy Day, Adm. Lanba said a "great deal of progress" has been made on ensuring synergy and "jointness" among the three services.

At the same time, he said the Indian Air Force is against theatre commands and noted that a higher defence organisation must be set up before starting actual work in that direction.

In his nearly 70-minute media briefing, the admiral listed various steps being taken to modernise his force including induction of a large fleet of military jets and choppers, adding the construction of a second indigenous aircraft carrier is expected to start within a period of three years.

On China fast expanding its naval prowess, the navy chief said, "By 2050, we will also have 200 ships, 500 aircraft and be a world-class navy."

He said 32 ships and submarines are presently under construction in Indian shipyards and in addition to them, government has accorded approval for 56 ships and six submarines.

Asked about the possibility of the navy having to deal with a two-front war, the admiral said his force is overwhelmingly ahead of Pakistan navy, while the balance of power in the Indian Ocean rests with India compared to China.

"As far as Indian navy is concerned, we don't have two fronts. We have one and that is the Indian Ocean," he said.

Asked about delay on the part of Reliance Naval Engineering Ltd in supplying five offshore patrol vehicle, he said the company is undergoing corporate debt restructuring and the bank guarantee for the deal has been encashed.

On whether the government was looking at cancelling the deal, the navy chief said the contract is being looked into.

About the long-pending proposal to appoint a chief of defence staff as head of the tri-services, he said there was a consensus among the the army, navy and air force on it and that a proposal on the matter was sent to the defence ministry.

Referring to overall security scenario in the region, Adm. Lanba said, "Our maritime security strategy is aimed at providing a maritime environment that is free from all forms of traditional and non-traditional threats to our national development."

He also talked about a "friendly" government coming to power in Maldives and hoped that maritime cooperation with the island nation will again pick up momentum under the new regime.

Asked about the status of the proposal to set up a naval base at Seychelles' Assumption Island, he said talks were on with the government of the island nation.

To queries on the state of coastal security 10 years after the 26/11 attack, he said the process for installing automated identification transponders on around 2.5 lakh fishing boats has been started and talked about various other measures.

Adm Lanba asserted that the Indian navy continued to remain "on watch 24 X 7" safeguarding the country's national interests in the maritime domain.

About the strategic nuclear submarine project, he said the Indian navy has successfully completed the first deterrence patrol of INS Arihant this year, adding, "with this, we have operationalised the third and the most survivable segment of the country's nuclear triad."

He said the second indigenous aircraft carrier has received the necessary impetus and it will be a CATOBAR, 65000 ton ship.

He said the first of the two Indigenous Aircraft Carriers, presently in its third and final Phase of construction at Kochi, will undergo sea trials in 2020.

"Induction of Vikrant will provide significant fillip to the navy's blue water capability, increasing the reach and impact of carrier borne strike forces, both as a means of deterrence as well as during combat operations," he said.

In Visakhapatnam, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, vice-admiral Karambir Singh said that a MiG-29 squadron would also be positioned at the ENC once the IAC-1 was inducted,

"In keeping with the country's maritime interests, the navy has a requirement of two operational aircraft carriers. The Maritime Capability Perspective Plan envisages a force level of three aircraft carriers to ensure availability of at least two Carrier Battle Groups at any given time," the vice-admiral said.

While INS Vikramaditya has already been inducted in line with this plan, IAC-1 was under construction, he said.

"The case for IAC-2 is being progressed to meet all future requirements without any degradation in force levels," he added.

IMAGE: Admiral Sunil Lanba views model of the force's tableau, to be displayed at Republic Day Parade 2019. Photograph: Manvender Vashist/PTI Photo

The navy was building required infrastructure like berthing facilities and associated services at the ENC for IAC-1.

Plans were also afoot to build a 10,000-ton ship-lift facility at the naval dockyard in Visakhapatnam. Once commissioned, this would be the second such facility in the country after the one at Karwar, he said.

Singh said orders were issued for building 27 warships and submarines under the Make in India initiative that would aid the capability building programme of the navy.

"On an average, four to five warships, including submarines, are normally inducted in a year. So, the new ones are expected to be inducted in the next five or six years," he said, in reply to a question.

On the increasing positioning of rival warships in the Indian Ocean region, the ENC chief said they too enhanced deployment of ships, submarines and aircrafts.

"We have transitioned to mission-based deployments, aimed at maximising our time at sea with defined outcomes. We also have automatic identification systems in place, specially in 'choke points' like the Malabar Straits," he said.

"Having designated our role in the Indian Ocean Region as the net security provider, the aim of these deployments is to have presence in relevant areas so as to secure our maritime interests and also assure our friends in the region that we are available to assist in the event of a developing situation," the vice admiral said.

The navy chief said specific guidelines for construction of submarines as part of the P75I project under the strategic partnership model will be released soon.

To a separate question on Kulbhushan Jadhav, the former navy staffer who was given death sentence by a Pakistani military court on charges of espionage, the navy chief said, "We are in touch with Kulbhushan Jadhav's family and are proving all support."

In Mumbai, Western Naval Command chief vice admiral Girish Luthra said that only "dignified activities" will be permitted on board the Indian navy's decommissioned aircraft carrier Viraat

Since its decommissioning, several states have expressed interest to convert the ship into a tourism hub or a museum.

The carrier, built and deployed by the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom in 1959, served the Indian Navy from 1987 till it was formally decommissioned in March, 2017.

The Centaur-class aircraft carrier operated for 56 years under British and Indian flags, earning itself a Guinness World Records mention for being the oldest serving warship.

"Proposals have been received from several states, including Maharashtra, to convert Viraat into a tourist destination. We will be permitting only dignified activities there," vice admiral Luthra told reporters in Mumbai.

He also said the proposal from Maharashtra had been forwarded to the defence ministry.

The vice admiral said the ship, in its future avatar, could be a public private partnership initiative.

"It is going to be a public private partnership (model) which means the state as well as a private company is going to be involved. Whether it will be a convention centre or a museum or a tourism destination will depend on the PPP," he said.

About the Maharashtra government's proposal for the decommissioned aircraft carrier, vice admiral Luthra said, "It is being examined actively at the highest level."

On the maintenance cost of the decommissioned aircraft carrier, he said about 225 people have been deployed to take care of the ship, but the navy did not "do any costing" of it.

The ship was commissioned into the Indian navy on May 12, 1987, and operated Sea Harrier fighter aircraft, Sea King 42B anti-submarine helicopters, Sea King 42C commando carrier helicopters and Chetaks as its main air elements.

The aircraft carrier is reputed for having been out at sea for over six years, covering the globe 27 times.Paris for a third straight weekend witnessed violent protests leading to the arrests of more than 400 people and injuring 133.

In the past few days, masked rioters have torched cars, buildings and even a police headquarter, looted shops and clashed with police. On the other hand, security forces have fired stun grenades, tear gas shells and water cannon at protesters.

The protest, now called as the Yellow Vest Protest, comes 18 months into French President Emmanuel Macrons presidency. It has been named so because the participants are wearing fluorescent safety jackets that are kept in all cars in France. The protesters, gilets jaunes (yellow vests), reportedly have no real structure or leadership.

Heres everything you need to know about the riots.

Photograph: Veronique de Viguerie/Getty Images

The ongoing protest started in response to French President Macron's new policy of fuel tax hike. Since then the protest has gathered momentum and taken aim at the high cost of living and wider dissatisfaction with Macron's presidency. The ongoing unrest erupted on November 17. Since then, the protest has spread quickly via social media. There have been reports that in many places, protesters have been blocking roads and impeding access to shopping malls, factories and some fuel depots.

Photograph: Benoit Tessier/Reuters

Destruction in Paris has been widespread. Protesters occupied the city centre and torched cars, smashed windows with clubs and axes. Protesters also set fire to cars and Christmas trees, hurled barricades at police, smashed up windows.

Photograph: Stephane Mahe/Reuters

Protesters also scrawled anti-Macron slogans on the Arc de Triomphe. The inside of the Arc de Triomphe was also ransacked, with a statue of Marianne - a symbol of the French republic - smashed and graffiti sprawled on the exterior. Protesters scrawled in big black letters: 'The yellow vests will triumph'

Photograph: Benoit Tessier/Reuters

Protesters said the riots were the 'start of a revolution', in violence which echoed the near-revolution of 1968.

Photograph: Stephane Mahe/Reuters

While Paris has seen some ugly scenes in the past few days with police arresting over 400 people, the protest is not limited to the national capital. Unrest also erupted in several towns and cities across France, from Charleville Mezieres in the northeast to Marseille in the south. In the Riviera city of Nice trucks blocked access to the airport, and in the central town of Puy-en-Velay the police headquarters was set on fire, Reuters said in a report.

Photograph: Stephane Mahe/Reuters

The French government has faced difficulties dealing with the protesters as the movement has no real leadership and has not aligned itself with any political organisation.

Macron has sought to douse the anger by promising three months of nationwide talks on turning France into a low-carbon economy without penalising the poor.

He also vowed to slow the rate of increase in fuel taxes if international oil prices rise too rapidly but only after a tax hike due in January.

Photograph: Stephane Mahe/Reuters

There have been calls to declare a state of emergency or even send in the army to quell the violence.

A state of emergency would allow extra powers to the forces of law and order, ranging from stop-and-searches to carrying out raids on the homes of suspected rioters, amid calls for the army to be called in.

France last brought in a state of emergency in 2015, following terrorist attacks by Islamic State, which lasted until November 2017.

Photograph: Veronique de Viguerie/Getty Imagess

Macron has vowed that those responsible for the violence will pay for their actions.

"I will always respect disagreements, I will always listen to opposition but I will never accept violence."

He added that the violence had "nothing to do with the expression of legitimate anger" showed by peaceful protesters.Telangana will vote in a single-phase election on December 7.

The ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi had dissolved the assembly on September 6, paving way for early elections.

The TRS is seen to be going strong and will face contest from the Congress and the BJP.

The TRS is going alone in the poll to the 119-member Assembly, as also is the BJP.

The Congress has forged "Prajakutami" (People's Alliance) with the Telugu Desma Party, the Telangana Jana Samiti headed by professor M Kodandaram, and the Communist Party of India.

After winning 63 seats in the 2014 assembly polls, the TRS' ranks have swelled with members of rival parties joining it over the years.

Rediff Labs analysed the 2013 assembly election results to develop a Sentiment Meter for the 2018 electoral battle.

A mathematical model is used to calculate how seat distribution will be altered as sentiment/percentage of votes towards a contesting political party changes.

Based on the change, each constituency is marked with the winning party. A swing represents that the victory margin is close to the runner-up party.

Move the pointer on the Sentiment Meter (depending on who you think will get more votes) towards the political parties to see how the outcome is likely to change.

The below graph is based only on 2013 assembly elections data.

For more data driven journalism, check out Rediff Labs.Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday said war is not a solution to the Kashmir issue, which can be resolved through talks.

In an interview to a group of television journalists in Islamabad, Khan said unless there was a dialogue, various options on resolution of Kashmir cannot be discussed.

When asked about the formula to resolve the Kashmir issue, Khan said there were two or three solutions, which have been in discussions.

He, however, refused to share more details, saying it was "too early to talk about them".

Khan claimed he was informed by late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and former foreign minister Natwar Singh during a conference that Kashmir would have been resolved if the BJP had not lost the 2004 Lok Sabha elections.

"It shows that there is a solution of Kashmir and both countries were close to resolve it," the Pakistani prime minister insisted.

Ruling out the possibility of any war with India, he said two nuclear armed countries would not fight because "there are always unintended consequences".

Asserting that Pakistan was serious to develop peaceful ties with all its neighbours, Khan claimed India was not ready to hold talks with the country due to the upcoming general elections.

Replying to a query on his views on the military's role in shaping of foreign policy in every country, including the US, he said, "Advice from the establishment is taken in those issues where security situation is involved."

Khan said the Pakistan Army and his government "are on the same page" and his decisions are "backed" by the military.Cuevas, who is a candidate for alderman in Auroras 5th Ward, said the Candlelight Vigil Protecting Immigrant Families is being timed to be at the same time as a larger vigil planned for the Federal Plaza at Dearborn and Adams streets in downtown Chicago.HARTFORD  U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal said 5G technology offers the tremendous promise of higher speed and reliability, but there are no studies of the health hazards associated with the radio frequency of the new technology.

We need to know whether the radio frequencies can cause cancer, Blumenthal said on Monday.

He said there are studies of the 2G and 3G technologies of tumors and cancers in lab rats when they are exposed to the radio frequencies.

He said this has nothing to do with the aesthetic effects of additional cell towers or the inconvenience of transmitters in neighborhoods, close to schools and workplaces. He said it simply has not been studied.

He said the last study of the 2G and 3G technology, involving rats, was released on Nov. 1 by the National Toxicology Program. That study began in 1999 and found cancerous heart tumors, as well as some evidence of brain and adrenal gland tumors, in male rats exposed to high levels of RF radiation.

The $30 million study took more than 10 years to complete and is the most comprehensive assessment, to date, of health effects in animals exposed to RFR with modulations used in 2G and 3G cell phones. 2G and 3G networks were standard when the studies were designed and are still used for phone calls and texting.

The study does not apply to 4G and 5G technologies.

I know of no reliable studies  classified or otherwise that have been done about 5G technology, Blumenthal said. There may have been studies by the military but so far as I know they failed to meet the specifications that are required in terms of the numbers of animals or other ways of measuring that would be required.

So theres still a question about whether 5G is safe, Blumenthal said.

He said thats where the Federal Communications Commission needs to step in and take action on this very new technology.

Speaking at a Senate Commerce Committee field hearing in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr said Federal law actually says that state and local governments cant take [radiofrequency] concerns into account given how much work has gone into this issue at the federal level  Both at the FCC and other expert health agencies in Washington, they stay very much up to speed on these issues and have reached the determination that these are safe.

In a letter to Carr, Blumenthal said then the FCC should provide the information about the 5G safety determination it cited at the hearing.

The FCC did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Blumenthal said these radio frequencies that would be part of a 5G network dont travel very far and they follow the person and the device, unlike 2G and 3G radio frequencies which are spread out.

Blake Levitt of the Berkshire-Litchfield Environmental Council said the signaling characteristics of 5G are incredibly complex using phased array and beam-forming technology.

She said thin skinned amphibians and insects are at particular risk from this new technology and they wont be part of any consideration, but are important to the ecosystem and the food chain.

5G is not like anything that we have going now, Levitt said. 5G actually has the theoretical ability even at very low densities to punch irreparable holes in the food chain.

David Weidlich, president of the Communication Workers of America, said the AT&T workers they represent have RF monitors when they work at the cell towers. However, these microtowers could go on individual telephone poles where there is no consistent safety mechanism for RF, he said.TORRINGTON  The Connecticut Department of Labor and the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board are offering a variety of training and employment workshops in December to assist area residents.

Events are held at the Torrington American Job Center, 59 Field Street. Call the listed phone numbers to register. Advance registration is encouraged due to space limitations. In addition to these workshops, the Resource Room continues to offer job-related Internet access and online application assistance.

Health Professions Opportunity Grant Orientation: Learn about careers in the healthcare field through the Careers Advancement Project. Eligible participants can receive training that will assist them in securing a job (and advance along a career) in the healthcare field. Call 203-574-6971 x435 to register.

Dec. 6: 10 a.m. Northwest Connecticut Community College (NCCC): Learn all about NCCC programs. Walk-ins are welcome.

Dec. 6, 13, 20 and 27: 1-4 p.m. Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Information Session: Participants can review process and eligibility requirements for funding of job training programs through this federal employment initiative. No appointment is needed.

Dec. 6, 13, 20 and 27: 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Fundamentals of Resume Writing: Learn how to write a focused resume needed to secure job interviews and employment offers. Topics include thinking like an employer, strategies for developing essential parts of the resume, keywords, relevant vs. irrelevant information, formatting and cover letters. Call 203- 437-3380 to register.

Dec. 11: 9-11:30 a.m. Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS): This workshop offers one-on-one appointments to review services/eligibility. The goal is to assist individuals with medical barriers to prepare for, obtain and maintain employment. Call (860) 496-3500 to register for the orientation.

Dec. 20: 3-4 p.m. Northwest Connecticut Construction Careers: This workshop offers an orientation for individuals seeking employment in construction-related fields. The session includes a review of pre-employment and job training criteria. Call 203-574-6971 x434 to register.

Dec. 26: 9-10 a.m. Computer Basics: Learn to use the mouse, keyboard, practice typing, navigate websites, set-up an email account, and learn about employment resources available through the Connecticut Department of Labor website. Microsoft tutorials are available. Call (860) 496-3500 to register.

Dec. 28, 9 a.m. Veterans Representative appointments: Eligible veterans can receive veteran-specific re-employment services. Contact a Connecticut Department of Labor Veterans Representative - Giancarlo Castagne at 203- 437-3294, or Michael Mariano at 203- 437-3297, to make an appointment or visit the Waterbury American Job Center.

OSHA 10 Certification Class: Participants will attend a two-day, 10-hour class to acquire an OSHA 10 Occupational Safety and Health training certificate. Classes are held at 77 Bishop Street, Waterbury - OIC Center. Call 203-574-6971 for Larry Devito (x461) or Joe Diorio (x434) for information.

Disability Resource Coordinator: Meet with a staff person to learn how to access the various programs that offer services and supports needed to obtain and maintain employment. The emphasis is on abilities, not disabilities. Contact Gary Madison at gary.madison@nrwib.org or 203-574-6971 x442.

ITXpress Program: Learn about training, credentials and employment opportunities through the TechHire ITXpress Program. Eligible participants can qualify to receive training that will assist them in securing a job in the Information Technology field (software developer, IT security, or computer programmer). Contact Angelo Santa Maria at angelo.santamaria@nrwib.org or 203-574-6971 x465.

Ticket to Work: Orientation for Persons receiving SSI or SSDI benefits (NRWIB): Information for SSI/SSDI beneficiaries, their friends and families, about advantages of participating in the Social Security Ticket to Work program. The American Job Center is an approved Ticket Employment Network. There is no obligation. Contact Gary Madison at gary.madison@nrwib.org or 203-574-6971 x442 to register.

Free GED Classes: Call ED Advance at 860-567-0863 about registering to attend free GED classes hosted at the Torrington American Job Center from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday and Wednesday afternoons.TORRINGTON  Deck the Halls Martini Tasting Party at Five Points Gallery,33 Main St., Torrington, will be held Wednesday, Dec. 5 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. to benefit FISH/Friends in Service to Humanity of Northwestern Connecticut, which runs a food pantry and homeless shelter in Torrington.

Arriving guests will be greeted by holiday musical favorites as they enter the art gallery. A silent auction will also be held.

Entries are wanted for a martini recipe competition to be prepared and served at the party, with guests voting for their favorite Peoples Choice.

Up to nine entries for martini recipes will be accepted until Dec. 3. Entries are accepted for a $300 sponsorship donation; a few spots remain, according to event organizers. A display of vintage martini shakers will also be displayed.

Charlene Dutka of Ciesco Catering, is preparing refreshments, appetizers and beverages including cocoa, wine and mulled cider.

Money raised during the holiday gala will be donated to FISH NWCTs homeless shelter and food pantry. Event organizers include Judith McElhone, Deirdre DiCara, Noel Croce, Charlene Dutka, Nancy Strini, Edward Cannata, and Cara Blazier.

Deirdre Houlihan DiCara, Executive Director of FISH NWCT, and Steven Caruso, Board President, who both work diligently to improve and guide the lives of those in need; and Judith McElhone, Executive Director of the Five Points Gallery and generous venue host, who provides inspiration through the arts; will all be on hand to greet supporters.

The mission at FISH NWCT is to provide food, shelter and hope to those neighbors facing an economic crisis and desperate need. The organization recently joined with the United Way of Northwest Connecticut for the annual Rally to End Hunger and Homelessness in Northwest Connecticut. Held on Nov. 18, the event began with a mid-morning march to the shelter on South Main Street, followed by a luncheon and coat drive giveaway at a local church.

At FISH NWCT, the focus is to improve residents lives by providing them with the resources, guidance, medical assistance, and educational and work opportunities needed to be independent and able to manage their own households, DiCara said in a statement. Last year the FISH Food Pantry distributed enough food to provide 108,439 meals to its nearly 1,800 registered food pantry clients At the FISH Homeless Shelter, there were 147 residents served, representing all ages from infants to seniors and Veterans, at the 35 bed shelter, with 75 of those homeless residents relocated into permanent supportive housing.

Tickets for the party are $35 per person and $60 per couple and can be reserved in advance or purchased at the door on Dec. 5.

For tickets, visit FISH NWCT at 332 South Main Street in Torrington at the side pantry entrance; call 860-482-7300; or go to www.fishnwct.org.Thats also why the partnership, appropriately titled Theres No Place Like Home, between the Paramount and The Neighbor Project also makes sense. The goal is to offer at least 50 kids and lower-income families a magical holiday experience that includes tickets to the Dec. 30 performance of The Wizard of Oz, followed by dinner, dessert and hot cocoa reception, where these families can have photos taken with Dorothy, the Tin Man, Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion, in costume, of course.Cambodias government on Monday outlined a plan to strengthen democracy and political space in the country following a divisive election, but observers said the proposal is aimed at alleviating international pressure and does not go far enough in rolling back restrictions put in place ahead of Julys ballot.



According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cambodia plans to amend the countrys political party law to lift a five-year ban on the political activities of 118 senior members of the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), which was dissolved by the Supreme Court in November last year for its role in an alleged plot to topple the government.



Cambodias government also vowed to promote genuine partnership with civil society groups and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), address matters related to labor and trade union rights, uphold press freedom and freedom of expression, and address longstanding land disputes by accelerating nationwide land registration, Mondays statement said.



The political restrictions on the CNRP and the arrest two months earlier of its president, Kem Sokha, were part of a wider crackdown on civil society and media that paved the way for Prime Minister Hun Sens ruling Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP) to sweep all 125 seats contested in a July 29 election that was widely dismissed as unfree and unfair.



The U.S. has since announced visa bans on individuals seen as limiting democracy in the country, as part of a series of measures aimed at pressuring Cambodia to reverse course, and the outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia William Heidt last week called on the government to free Kem Sokha and foster political reconciliation in the nation.



The European Union, which was the second biggest trade partner of Cambodia in 2017, withdrew support ahead of the ballot and has said it will drop a preferential trade scheme for Cambodian exports based on the countrys election environment.



On Monday, political analyst Kim Sok told RFAs Khmer Service that restoring the legal rights of the 118 CNRP senior members without allowing them to reestablish their party is insufficient.



[The governments] approach is firstly to benefit from easing of pressure from the international community in order for it to hold gradual talks or buy time against any possible sanctions, he said.



Secondly, [the CPP] intends to only allow the 118 CNRP politicians to return to politicsbut not the CNRP  which means they will have no shelter. Their goal is to break up the bloc of the 118 CNRP politicians and sow opposition within their ranks, as they will lack leadership.



Kim Sok added that Hun Sen may have felt forced to propose such a move because his leadership has been undermined by a lack of support from the international community.



If Hun Sen does not properly return to democracy  international pressure will remain strong and it will affect his leadership, he said.



This is a good situation for the opposition to respond and use this momentum. They must be strong, and unite with one another to further put pressure on Hun Sen.



Ly Srey Sros, another political analyst, told RFA that Hun Sens regime appears to be trying to resolve the tense political situation in Cambodia following international pressure, adding that the country stands to benefit if the government truly want to open up the political space without trying to divide the opposition.



But she warned that tricks aimed at benefiting the ruling party will only further destabilize Cambodias political environment.



Civil society and media



Soeung Sen Karona, spokesperson for rights group Adhoc, welcomed the stated pledge to improve guarantees for civil society and NGOs, but said that Cambodia has failed to uphold its commitments related to the protection of human rights and freedoms according to various international covenants and the countrys own constitution.



Cambodias government administers the country based on its leaders sentiments, he said, adding that civil society and NGOs are routinely subjected to restrictions ahead of elections that are gradually relaxed after the ballot is decided.



We want to see stabilitynot just during the election or in the post-election phase, he said.



We dont want to see [a repetition of] this present situation that would hurt our stability. Weve lost a lot of time in this process of building respect for human rights and democracy and it feels as if weve made no progress.



Cambodian Center for Independent Media (CCIM) director Nop Vy told RFA that the governments statement pledging to uphold press freedom and freedom of expression was only the first step, and said other restrictions that create a hostile environment for the media must also be addressed.



This means that there [should be] no lawsuits filed against journalistsall lawsuits against journalists must be dropped, he said.



Secondly, all licenses for banned radio stations should be re-authorized by allowing all station owners to enjoy their full right to air the programs they want.



After eliminating his main political challenger last year, Hun Sen turned his attention to silencing critics of his rule.



In May, The Phnom Penh PostCambodias last independent dailywas sold for an unknown sum to a Malaysian investor with ties to Hun Sen following the out-of-court settlement of a U.S. $3.9 million claim by the government for alleged unpaid back taxes, prompting an exodus by several senior members of the newspapers reporting staff.



The sale of the Post came less than 10 months after the forced closure of the Cambodia Daily, another independent newspaper that was also pressured over claims of unpaid taxes, and the shuttering of several independent radio programs. RFA closed its operations in Cambodia in September amid government pressure.



Government spokesperson Phay Siphan referred questions about Mondays statement to relevant ministries, but requests for comment to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Information were declined.



CNRP appointment



The governments proposal comes a day after the CNRP appointed former president Sam Rainsy, who is living in self-imposed exile to avoid a string of politically motivated convictions, as acting president of the party while Kem Sokha remains detained in Phnom Penh facing charges of treason.



Kem Sokha was granted bail in September but remains under house arrest, is barred from meeting with CNRP officials or foreigners, and cannot speak at or host any rallies or political activities.



Speaking to RFA at the end of the CNRPs two-day conference in Atlanta, Georgia, Sam Rainsy said that more than 400 CNRP officials representing the global branches of the party chose to appoint him acting president so that the party has a leader to lead it through Cambodias current political crisis.



Today is the day that our party resumes our operations with a clear and strong leadership, he said.



We will start making appropriate and timely decisions regarding CNRP strategies, tactics and action plans both within and outside of the country.



The CNRPs global priority is making sanctions come into effect against Hun Sens government, Sam Rainsy said, as well as a true solution whereby Kem Sokha is released.



We want international sanctions to directly hit the point by leading to Kem Sokhas release, as well as to provide freedom for politicians to operate, he said.



In order that journalists and union members have freedom, first we need freedom for politicians, since they are the ones who struggle for citizen rights and freedoms. So we will let Hun Sen solve the problems that he created for the CNRP and then everything will be eased gradually.



Reported by RFAs Khmer Service. Translated by Sovannarith Keo. Written in English by Joshua Lipes.Officials in Hong Kong have debarred another pro-democracy politician and land rights activist from running in a village-level election, sparking calls for his impeachment as a sitting member of the city's Legislative Council (LegCo) by pro-Beijing figures.



Eddie Chu's candidacy in village representative elections scheduled for January was rejected by election officer Enoch Yuen in a notice issued on Sunday.



Yuen told journalists that he had based the decision on Chus answers to key questions set for him, which he said could be understood as "implicitly confirming support for independence as a possible option for Hong Kong people."



Chu has said he has never supported independence for the city, which has seen a rapid erosion in freedom of speech in recent years after a string of high-profile political interventions by the ruling Chinese Communist Party, which had promised in the city a "high degree of autonomy" after the 1997 handover.



He said the move showed that the Hong Kong government now expects all its officials to act as "thought police."



"This red line will mean that we [lawmakers] are unable to continue to protect freedom of speech in Hong Kong," Chu told reporters on Monday. "They are importing the logic of the thought police into Hong Kong, and they want officials like this to uphold it."



Chu is the ninth Hong Kong politician to have been barred from candidacy in elections in the city, after six pro-democracy LegCo members were stripped of their seats when Beijing's parliament ruled their oaths of allegiance invalid.



Pro-Beijing figures began on Monday to call for his impeachment in the wake of the election ban.



Lawmaker Kwok Wai-keung, of the pro-Beijing Federation of Trade Unions, said the requirements for sitting in LegCo should be stricter than those for election as a village representative, according to a report from the Hong Kong Free Press.



Government 'red lines'



Democracy campaigner Joseph Cheng, a former political science professor at City University, said the ban on Chu was unreasonable, and a breach of the international covenant on civil and political rights.



"He has already made it clear that he doesn't support independence for Hong Kong, but yet Hong Kong officials say he does, because he doesn't oppose other people talking about it," Cheng said.



"There have been strong calls for independence, and they need to be publicly debated," he said.



Cheng said the government also appears to be drawing its "red lines" arbitrarily.



Pan-democratic lawmaker Claudia Mo agreed.



"Hong Kongers are supposed to come under the protection of all freedoms under the Basic Law. But now literally, practically [the government has] put a noose around our necks. Whether it goes tighter or looser is all subject to the authority's whims," she said in comments reported by government broadcaster RTHK.



She said the administration is "moving the goal posts and drawing its red line quite so liberally in any manner it wishes."



Earlier rejections



Last month, the Hong Kong Labour Party's would-be candidate Lau Siu-lai had her candidacy rejected by a returning officer, an administrative official charged with the orderly running of elections.



Lau has repeatedly denied that she supports the idea of self-determination for Hong Kong, which became a Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China in 1997.



Alleged separatist views have already been used as grounds to debar two other prominent opposition figuresAgnes Chow and Andy Chan, founder of the separatist Hong Kong National Party.



But the returning officer claimed not to believe Lau, while Hong Kong's Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Patrick Nip said the pre-election screening process doesn't always allow applicants to put their case to officials.



The city's High Court ruled in February after the decision to ban Andy Chan from running in elections that would-be candidates should be given a "reasonable opportunity" to respond to doubts about their loyalty to Hong Kong's mini-constitution, the Basic Law.



Reported by Gao Feng for RFA's Mandarin Service, and by the Cantonese Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.Members of the Shan State Progress Party and Shan State Army-North meet for their fourth congress at party headquarters in Wanhai in Kyethi township, eastern Myanmars Shan state, Nov. 28-Dec. 2, 2018.

An ethnic Shan political organization has called for dialogue to bring about a cease-fire between opposing Shan armies in beleaguered eastern Myanmar, in an attempt to stop the fighting and advance the country's faltering peace process.

The Shan State Progress Party (SSPP), whose armed wing, the Shan State Army-North (SSA-N), is one of the states ethnic insurgent groups, issued the call in a statement the party released at the end of a five-day congress at its headquarters in the town of Wanhai in northern Shan state's Kyethi township. Nearly 340 SSPP members attended the meeting.

The SSPP said it had tried as much as possible to negotiate between opposing Shan groups engaged in inter-ethnic clashes, but its efforts have been unsuccessful.

The party will continue to push for talks and will try to resolve political problems through political means in accordance with state and national government-level agreements signed in 2012, it said.

Shan state has long been plagued by inter-ethnic conflict as well as by hostilities between Myanmar government forces and ethnic armed groups, including the SSPP/SSA-N, the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS) and its armed wing, the Shan State Army-South (SSA-S), and the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA).

Fighting between the RCSS/SSA and the TNLA continued to flare late last week on the outskirts of Lashio, the largest town in northern Shan state, prompting more than 200 villagers to flee their homes, the Myanmar Times reported.

Clashes in the area have occurred for more than a year, at first between the Myanmar military and a combined force of the RCSS/SSA and TNLA soldiers, but now between the two armed ethnic groups, the report said, citing Than Aung, administrator of Pan Sok village.

Previous skirmishes occurred in the area in March and July, he said.

TNLA spokesman Colonel Tar Aik Kyaw told the publication that his group has been involved in at least 80 clashes with the RCSS/SSA over territory this year.

The SSPP has accused the RCSS of fighting together with the government army against it, though Myanmar forces are battling RCSS troops, said Khun Sai, an educator at the Union Institute in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

All organizations and people, including monks, are urging the Shan groups to talk, he told RFA, adding that he believes the national military has incited the RCSS/SSA to engage in clashes with the SSPP/SSA.

Although we are urging them to talk, one monk has been shot to death, so the problems between the Shan groups have become more complicated, he said. The best way to solve the problems is to talk, but we dont understand why they wont accept this.

Residents forced to flee

Sai Tun Nyan, a lawmaker who represents Kyuakme constituency in the lower house of the Union parliament, said the groups have already met four times to discuss ending the hostilities.

Though they have been meeting, we still have had more fighting in the region, he said.

Clashes last week drove more than 100 civilians from their homes in Chone village tract, Sai Tun Nyan said. They are now staying at a displacement camp in Kyuakme.

Authorities placed 60 other residents who fled fighting in Natman village five days ago in two monasteries, he said.

Since then, fighting hasnt occurred again, he said. They might return home if there is no more fighting.

More than 8,500 people, of whom 77 percent are women and children, remain displaced by fighting and live in 31 camps or camp-like settings in northern Shan state, according to a brief issued in September by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

Those who are temporarily displaced usually return to their villages once hostilities die down.

Since the beginning of 2018, increased fighting in northern Shan state either by between ethnic armed groups and the Myanmar military or between different ethnic armies, has resulted in civilian casualties and additional displacement in several conflict-affected townships, OCHA said.

Clashes between the TNLA, the armed wing of the Palaung ethnic group, and the RCSS have intensified in recent months following a joint effort by the SSPP and the Taang army to try to push back RCSS soldiers expanding into northern Shan state, according to a November report on the Shan Herald Agency for News website.

The TNLA began fighting the RCSS for the same reason after the latter signed the governments nationwide cease-fire agreement (NCA) in October 2015, though the RCSS argued that its troops had been in the area for more than a dozen years, the report said. The TNLA has not signed the peace accord.

The RCSS also accused TNLA troops of attacking Shans who had completed military training at its headquarters and were returning home to the Namkham area in November 2015, it said.

Deadly shooting in Muse

The ongoing violence in the state was evident in a shooting Sunday night by an unknown group that killed three pro-army border guards and injured two others at a militia camp in the trading hub of Muse on the border with China, a militiaman who declined to provide his name told RFA.

The attack occurred while security guards were on duty at the border crossing police station, immigration office, and the Nantkham Myoma Militia camp, he said.

They shot at the militia camp at around 7:10 p.m., he said.

The Myoma Militia has been working together with government ministries and the military on regional security and operations, he said. I assume that the armed group shot us because it had a grudge.

Muse township administrator Thu Rein said the military, and not local police, will handle the case.

Our department will work together with the military as needed, he said. We have deployed military and police around town, but its impossible to cover all places.



Reported by Kan Thar, Tin Aung Khine, and That Su Aung for RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khet Mar. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin.Myanmar Navy personnel escort Rohingya Muslims, who were detained at sea en route to Malaysia, back to their displacement camp in Sittwe, western Myanmar's Rakhine state, Nov. 30, 2018.

Myanmar authorities will send more than three dozen Rohingya Muslims from Rakhine state found at sea off Tanintharyi region on Nov. 29 back to the state capital Sittwe, a regional police official said Sunday.

Police in Kyunsu township detained and investigated the 38 boat people picked up in the Andaman Sea, Police Colonel Sein Win told RFAs Myanmar Service.

The group of 19 men, 11 women, and eight children left Rakhines Thaechaung village on Nov. 21 and headed by boat to Malaysia.

Myanmar authorities arrested them as they tried to dock on an island after running out of fuel, food, and drinking water.

The number of Rohingya from Myanmar trying to reach Malaysia in hopes for a better life has increased since the annual rainy season ended in late October.

Bangladeshi police rescued 10 Rohingya refugees, including six women, on Nov. 27 and arrested a suspected human trafficker who was about to take them by boat to the Southeast Asian country.

The operation took place days after Tanintharyi region authorities returned 93 Rohingya Muslims to their homes villages and displacement camp in Rakhine state after they said they paid traffickers 500,000 Myanmar kyats (U.S. $312) each to take them by boat to Malaysia in mid-November.

On Nov. 16, Myanmar Navy personnel rescued a group of 106 Rohingya who paid traffickers to take them to Malaysia when their boats engine failed, leaving them stranded in the Andaman Sea off Yangon region.

Also in November, another vessel with dozens of Rohingya from the Darpaing displacement camp who left Sittwe on Nov. 18 was detained shortly after setting sail.

Myanmar considers the Rohingya illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and systematically discriminates against them, denying them citizenship  though many have lived in the country for generations  and access to basic services such as education and health care.

Communal violence between Muslims and Buddhists in Rakhine state in 2012 left more than 200 people dead and displaced about 140,000 others, mostly Rohingya who ended up in displacement camps.

In recent years, thousands of them have fled or attempted to flee persecution in Buddhist-majority Myanmar on boats organized by human traffickers and bound for other Southeast Asian nations.

Reported by RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khet Mar. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin.Just three days before Georgia's presidential runoff vote, former Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili said he found candidate Salome Zurabishvili's accent "quite charming."

It was a riposte to the mocking that dogged Zurabishvili during the campaign as a result of the French-born former foreign minister's thick accent and frequent grammatical mistakes.

"Some have doubts about Salome being Georgian because of her accent. I personally find her accent quite charming," Ivanishvili, who founded the ruling Georgian Dream party and campaigned heavily for her, told reporters after a late-November rally.

But the 66-year-old career diplomat appears to have gotten the last laugh on November 28, when she became the first woman ever elected Georgian president, taking nearly 60 percent of the vote against opposition-backed Grigol Vashadze.

Vashadze has challenged the result as a "stolen election," including in front of thousands of peaceful demonstrators in Tbilisi on December 2.

But the outcry appeared unlikely to change the result of a vote that international monitors described as "competitive" even though Zurabishvili "enjoyed an undue advantage" through the misuse of administrative resources that "blurred the line between party and state."

The daughter of refugees who fled Georgia in 1921 for Paris after the country was annexed by Moscow's Soviet rulers, Zurabishvili rose through the ranks of France's diplomatic circles.

WATCH: Zurabishvili speaks to Euronews:

In 2003, she was appointed her birth country's ambassador to Tbilisi before she was handpicked by then-President Mikheil Saakashvili to be Georgia's foreign minister even though she had never set foot in the country until she was 36.

"During my youth, we had practically no contact with Georgians except for those living through immigration. There was no social network, there were no TVs. So the language was really 'home based,'" she told the German news outlet Deutsche Welle in October.

"I've been living in the country for 16 years; I've been a foreign minister; I've been elected as a member of the parliament; so it's very interesting that the criticism has started just two months ago," she added.

'Speak Georgian!'

Having been exposed only to "kitchen-table" Georgian, Zurabishvili had several linguistically difficult moments during the campaign.

Once, trying to dispel rumors she was a Catholic running for office in a deeply Orthodox country, she attempted to say the Georgian word "martlmadidebeli" to describe herself as Orthodox. But she garbled the pronunciation into "martmadiani," seemingly melding the word for Orthodox with the word for Muslim, "Mahmadiani."

The attempt fell flat and provoked immediate scorn in social media. "Have you created a new religion?" one Facebook critic asked sarcastically.

Another time, in an attempt to play up Georgia's tourism potential, she noted that the country's beauty allows one to "shove things in anywhere you want."

"The President of Georgia should know Georgian, full stop," publicist and TV personality Tako Charkviani wryly commented in a Facebook post after the gaffe.

Zurabishvili isn't the first post-Soviet leader to face questions over their national identity because of their accents, however slight.

Former Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga was born in Riga but raised abroad after her parents escaped the second Soviet occupation of the Baltic state in late 1944.

Despite being a highly educated professor in Canada who spoke five languages fluently, Vike-Freiberga faced some heckles for her Latvian in a country where language is a political hot potato as the tiny nation tries to protect its native tongue amid a sizable Russian-speaking population.

Another Baltic politician, former Estonian President Toomas Ilves, also heard derisive comments about his language skills when he came to the country from the United States.

His parents escaped Soviet-occupation for Sweden, where he was born, before eventually settling in New Jersey, where he grew up. Ironically, Ilves has become known in diplomatic circles for his New Jersey accent when he speaks English.

Lesser Role

Constitutional changes in Georgia have made the presidency less powerful than the prime minister's office.

Aside from powers aimed at keeping state bodies compliant with the constitution, Georgia's presidency plays a primary role in negotiating international treaties and accords, and appoints ambassadors and other diplomatic representatives.

This was the last direct presidential vote before Georgian presidents are chosen by a 300-member College of Electors made up of lawmakers and local and regional officials.According to the Illinois Route 66 Association website, this Mother Road was one of the original U.S. highways, established in 1926. It begins in Chicago, and goes 2,400 miles west through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California, ending in Los Angeles. In one of its realignments, that end point was moved to Santa Monica, where it remains today.MINSK -- Two Belarusian activists have been fined for mocking a statue of a tsarist-era policeman in Minsk.

A court in Minsk on December 3 found Syarhey Sparysh and Vyachaslau Kasinerau guilty of minor hooliganism and fined both $360.

Sparysh, Kasinerau, and four other activists were detained on December 2 after they laid a funeral wreath with the message "to the image of the Interior Ministry" at the statue in the Belarusian capital.

Last month, Minsk authorities forced a teenager to apologize to the statue after he was caught on camera playfully slapping it on the face, which sparked a series of flash mobs mocking the authorities' move to punish a 16-year-old student, identified as Arseniy.

The statue has been vandalized or used for political stunts several times since it was unveiled in March last year to mark the centenary of the Belarusian police.

In March 2017, Kasinerau was fined after he threw a hangman's noose over the statue to protest against police treatment of political protesters.

In March this year, members of a local lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) group were disciplined for placing a rainbow-colored pot of flowers beside the statue.The head of Britain's foreign intelligence service has warned the Kremlin "not to underestimate" the West following a nerve-agent attack on a retired double agent in England that he attributed to covert Russian activity.

Alex Younger, head of the Secret Intelligence Service known as MI6, made the remarks on December 3 in a rare public speech, saying that Russia was in a state of "perpetual confrontation" with Britain and the West.

The speech comes at a time of heightened tensions between the West and Russia over issues including Moscow's aggression in Ukraine, its alleged election meddling in the United States and Europe, massive international cyberattacks, and the poisoning of Russian former spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter, Yulia, in the city of Salisbury in March.

The Skripals survived the poisoning, in which a Soviet-made military nerve agent known as Novichok was used.

Russia has repeatedly denied evidence that its agents were behind the attack and accused British intelligence agencies of staging the attack to stoke anti-Russian hysteria.

Two other British citizens were exposed to the nerve agent in June, apparently by accident; one of them, Dawn Sturgess, died.

Addressing students at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, Younger said the Russian state "used a military-grade chemical weapon on U.K. soil."

"Our intention is for the Russian state to conclude that, whatever the benefits it thinks it is accruing from this activity, they are not worth the risk," he added.

Younger urged "Russia or any other state intent on subverting our way of life not to underestimate our determination and our capabilities, or those of our allies."

The expulsion of Russian diplomats from Britain and its allies following the Novichok poisoning in Salisbury had significantly reduced Russian intelligence capability, Younger said, emphasizing that "even as the Russian state seeks to destabilize us, we do not seek to destabilize Russia. We do not seek escalation."

The Russian Embassy in London rejected Younger's "unsubstantiated claims," which it said "sow a false atmosphere of fear and mistrust in British society," according to the Interfax news agency.



"It is only official London which is in constant confrontation with Russia, and at its own initiative," the embassy added.

In his speech, the MI6 chief also said that Britain's spies had thwarted multiple Islamic State (IS) plots originating overseas and that the country will fortify its intelligence ties with European counterparts even though the country is leaving the European Union next year.

In the most recent incident involving Britain and Russia, British Defense Secretary Gavin Williamson last week called on the public to report suspicious activity near army sites after a Russian TV crew prompted an alert at a highly sensitive military facility.

Williamson in October accused Russia of acting like a "pariah state," whose "reckless and indiscriminate" attacks had left it isolated in the international community.

And in an interview last month, the head of the British Army, General Mark Carleton-Smith, described Russia as a "far greater threat" to Britain's national security than Islamic terrorist groups such as the IS.

With reporting by Reuters, AP, the BBC, and AFPThe Czech spy agency said it is "obvious" that Russia was behind two recent cyberattack campaigns against the Foreign Ministry and the country's diplomats.

The agency, known as the BIS, said in its annual report on December 3 that the cyberattacks were part of the most serious wave of cyberespionage to target the Czech Republic.

It says 150 e-mail accounts were hacked in an attack by the Russian state that began in early 2016 and was not discovered until 2017.

It also says a separate Russian cyberattack began in December 2016.

The BIS report concludes that the attacks were part of the Turla malware campaign by Russia's FSB intelligence agency and the APT28 or Fancy Bear campaign by Russias GRU military intelligence agency.

Other European countries have faced similar attacks.

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis said his government will discuss the agency's conclusions in January.

Based on reporting by AP and ReutersThe European Unions enlargement commissioner has urged Kosovo's government to revoke a recent decision to impose a 100 percent tariff on imports from Serbia and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Johannes Hahn met with Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj and President Hashim Thaci on December 3, nearly two weeks after Kosovo slapped the tax on imports in retaliation for what it said were Belgrade's efforts to undermine the young republic on the international stage.

The move drew angry reactions from Belgrade and calls from the European Union and the United States to revoke the measure. It also prompted the mayors of four predominantly ethnic Serb municipalities in northern Kosovo to resign.

Speaking at a news conference in Pristina, Hahn said the EU was "disappointed" about the introduction of the tariffs and considered the move "unacceptable" and against the principles of regional cooperation.



"It undermines all the good work done and has a negative impact on the whole region," said the EU official, who oversees the process for admitting new member states to the bloc.



Meanwhile, Haradinaj said his government was "obliged to take this step following continuous obstacles that Serbia has done and continues to do" to Kosovo.



Kosovo's prime minister insisted that the tax did not include humanitarian donations coming from Serbia and Bosnia.



Hahn traveled to Kosovo after morning talks with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Belgrade, where the EU official tweeted, "I will call upon my interlocutors in Kosovo to unblock regional cooperation and trade and stress the need to return to the dialogue."

"We agreed on the urgent need for de-escalation," he said in a separate tweet.

Relations between Pristina and Belgrade have been tense since Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008.

Although more than 110 countries recognize Kosovo, Serbia -- and Bosnia -- do not.

Both Kosovo and Serbia have been told they must resolve their differences in order to make progress toward EU membership, but EU-sponsored normalization talks have been stop-and-go in recent months.

Vucic said on December 3 that he was ready to return to the negotiations as soon as Pristina lifted the tariff on Serbian imports.

"Pristina's measures led to the full destabilization of the whole region and could lead to the escalation of tensions," the Serbian president said in a statement.

Lawmakers representing Kosovo's ethnic Serb minority closed themselves inside the parliament building on November 2, asking for a meeting with Hahn to express their concerns over the import tax.

With reporting by APThe Iranian military says it will keep conducting missile tests despite U.S. condemnation of them.

"Missile tests...are carried out for defense and the country's deterrence, and we will continue this," Brigadier-General Abolfazl Shekarchi, a spokesman for Iran's armed forces, was quoted as saying by the semiofficial Tasnim news agency on December 2.

He said Iran will "continue to both develop and test missiles" and added that such activity "is outside the framework of [nuclear] negotiations and part of our national security, for which we will not ask any country's permission."

The statement comes one day after U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo condemned what he described as Iran's testing of a medium-range ballistic missile capable of carrying multiple warheads.

The missile has the ability to hit parts of Europe and any location in the Middle East, Pompeo said in a December 1 statement.

This test violates UN Security Council Resolution 2231 that bans Iran from undertaking any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons," the statement added, citing the UN Security Council's endorsement of the 2015 international nuclear agreement, which U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew from in May.

Pompeo warned that Irans missile proliferation is growing and called on Iran to cease these activities."

U.S. national security adviser John Bolton tweeted earlier on December 2 that "Iran just test-fired a...ballistic missile capable of reaching Israel and Europe. This provocative behavior cannot be tolerated."

Shekarchi did not confirm or deny that Iran had tested a new missile.

The latest statement from Pompeo came amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington, which has reimposed tough sanctions on Iran that had been removed under the nuclear accord.

The sanctions are part of a broader U.S. campaign to pressure Iran over what the Trump administration describes as its "malign conduct" such as missile development and support for militant groups in the Middle East.

Tehran has repeatedly rejected negotiations over its missile program and insists the missiles are only to be used for defensive purposes.

"Iran will not abandon its defensive weapons...including its missiles that make America so angry," Iranian President Hassan Rohani said in September.

With reporting by Reuters, IRNA, and TasnimThe URL has been copied to your clipboard

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Ethnic Serbian lawmakers remained holed up inside Kosovo's parliament building December 3 after staging a sit-in overnight. The members of the Serbian List faction are protesting the Kosovar government's decision to impose a 100 percent tax on goods from neighboring Serbia.Pakistan said U.S. President Donald Trump has written a letter to Prime Minister Imran Khan to ask for help with Afghan peace talks.

Pakistani Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said on December 3 that President Trump has asked for Pakistans cooperation to bring the Taliban into talks.

Chaudhry said Trump's letter asked Pakistan to play a role in peace talks seeking to end the 17-year war in Afghanistan.

There was no immediate confirmation from the White House about Trump writing such a letter, which would be the first direct communication between the two leaders since Imran Khan came into power in August.

The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad also would not comment on Chaudhry's announcement.

Trump has consistently criticized Pakistan since he launched his South Asia and Afghanistan strategy, despite attempts by the two governments to fix problems that have damaged their relations.

In November, Trump said in an interview that Pakistan doesn't "do a damn thing" for the United States, despite billions of dollars in U.S. aid.

He also charged that Pakistani officials knew of former Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden's location in Abottabad, Pakistan, before he was killed there in 2011 during a raid by U.S. special forces.

The Taliban has refused to deal directly with Afghanistans government, saying they would negotiate only with the United States.

The militants have also said NATO forces must withdraw from Afghanistan before negotiations can begin.

U.S. diplomats in the past week have called for the Taliban to seize a moment of opportunity to begin formal peace talks with the Western-backed Afghan government and negotiate a settlement to end the fighting.

Zalmay Khalilzad, an Afghan-born former U.S. ambassador to Kabul and Iraq, was appointed in September to the U.S. State Department team that is pushing for reconciliation efforts and peace talks with the Taliban.

Khalilzad, who has held several rounds of preliminary talks with Taliban officials in Qatar, told reporters in Kabul in November that he was optimistic a peace deal with the militants could be reached before Afghanistans next presidential election in April 2019.

Although contacts have started between Khalilzad and Taliban representatives, there has been no pause in fighting.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani said last week that his government had formed a 12-member team to negotiate peace with the Taliban. But he warned that implementation of any deal would take at least five years.

He also said any deal must meet certain conditions, including respecting the constitutional rights of women.

With reporting by Reuters, AP, Dawn.com, AFP, and dpaRussia's culture minister has revealed historical records that he claims prove the authenticity of a World War II legend largely debunked by historians, delivering the latest salvo in a long-running dispute that challenges the official narrative of the Soviet Union's war experience.

In an article published in the government newspaper Rossiiskaya Gazeta on December 2, Vladimir Medinsky cites passages from wartime accounts declassified this spring by Russia's secret services that purport to shed new light on heroics attributed to the 316th division of the Red Army under the leadership of General Ivan Panfilov. The documents form part of an investigation launched in the spring of 1942 by the NKVD secret police, the predecessor to the Soviet KGB, Medinsky writes.

Commonly referred to as "Panfilov's 28 men," the legend is among the most controversial episodes of World War II. According to a version long advanced by Soviet and Russian authorities, 28 soldiers of Panfilov's division gave their lives stopping a column of several dozen German tanks in its advance on Moscow in the winter of 1941. The men were posthumously named Heroes of the Soviet Union.

The legend was first popularized on the pages of the Soviet Army newspaper Red Star in a November 1941 article by Aleksandr Krivitsky, and was quickly spread by other journalists on the front line as an example of the bravery and sacrifice of Soviet soldiers. With the collapse of the Soviet Union and the opening of state archives, it came under scrutiny from historians. In 1997, an article in the journal New World dismissed the story as a fabrication, claiming among others that many of the men listed dead were in fact still alive.

In 2015, the Russian State Archive published on its website the scan of an 11-page report to the Communist Party from the Soviet Union's chief military prosecutor, dated May 10, 1948, that describes the alleged feat of Panfilov's men as a fabrication by the Soviet press. Several months later, the longtime head of the State Archive, Sergei Mironenko, was demoted in a move that critics tied to his vocal opposition to the Russian government's promotion of questionable war stories.

After Mironenko authorized the publication of the May 1948 report, Medinsky said that the director of the Russian archive should not be "a fighter against historical falsifications." In his latest article, Medinsky called that report a politically motivated document that, due to its release seven years after the event, cannot be relied upon as evidence of the story's fabrication.

'Sacred Legend'

Medinsky has been one of the most vocal figures in the debate over the story's authenticity. As culture minister he has driven the public commemoration of many aspects of the Soviet World War II experience, which forms a key part of contemporary Russian identity. The legend of Panfilov's 28 men has inspired myriad books, poems, and monuments across the former Soviet Union, and in 2016 the Culture Ministry spent 30 million rubles ($460,000) on a drama promoting the legend of the famed Soviet division.

The film, which has been aired at special events at Russian embassies worldwide, provoked controversy upon its release and charges that the Russian state was promoting a story that had been proven false. In response, Medinsky argued that the story's authenticity was not the issue.

"Even if this story were made up from start to finish, even if there had been no Panfilov, even if there had been nothing at all," he said at the time, "this is a sacred legend, which simply cannot be touched. And those who do so are washed-up scumbags."

Medinsky advances a similar line of argument in his article. While he describes the release of the new documents as a "modest historical sensation," he argues that it's "amoral" to dig into the details of the famed legend. What's important is that these men died honestly for their country, he writes.

He concludes by renewing his attacks on those who seek to falsify the stories that form the foundation of Russian identity. Such critics' charges are not academic but ideological, he argues, and then rifles through the names of wartime heroes that Russia has placed on a pedestal.

"All of them were sacred martyrs outside of a religious context. They are our spiritual template," he writes. "Our national identity is based on the examples and the names of these civilian saints, and generally speaking the civic and historical unity of our country."

On December 3, in a press briefing aimed at promoting the new findings, Medinsky sought to make them the last word in a long-running clash between historians and Russia's official narrative on history -- a dispute in which he's played a primary role.

"The given materials prove that the events described by the Red Star correspondent have indeed more factual foundations than we had thought," Medinsky told journalists at the headquarters of the Russian Military-Historical Society, which he runs. "And they bring to naught the speculations of various publicists."Georgian authorities say they have detained six Ukrainians and a Georgian citizen on weapons possession charges during opposition protests over a presidential election won by Salome Zurabishvili, the ruling party-backed candidate.

In a statement on December 2, the day of the protests, the Interior Ministry said the seven were detained at a Tbilisi hotel on suspicion of illegally obtaining and possessing weapons and explosives.

It said the ministry and the State Security Service were trying to determine whether the suspects had anything to do with the opposition protests in the capital.

Thousands of people protested, alleging fraud in the November 28 runoff election between Zurabishvili, an independent who was backed by the ruling Georgian Dream party, and Grigol Vashadze.

Vashadze was nominated by opposition groups led by the United National Movement, which was founded by former President Mikheil Saakashvili, who was a regional governor in Ukraine in 2015-16 and has many supporters there.

The chief of Ukraine's Socialist Party, Illya Kyva, wrote on Facebook on December 2 that lawmaker Semen Semenchenko of Samopomich (Self-Reliance) party was with the six Ukrainians but has a diplomatic passport and was not detained.

Semenchenko wrote on Facebook on December 3 that the detained Ukrainians had nothing to do with protests in Georgia.

He said that he and his wife are in Tbilisi and are working with lawyers to secure the release of the Ukrainians from custody.

He said they have not been formally charged.

Saakashvili, who was president of Georgia from 2004-13, lost his Georgian citizenship in 2015 when he accepted Ukrainian citizenship in connection with his appointment by President Petro Poroshenko as governor of the Odesa region.

He resigned that position in November 2016, complaining of rampant corruption, and has become an ardent opponent of Poroshenko.

Saakashvili led antigovernment and anticorruption street protests in Ukraine in 2017 before he was forced to leave the country.

In July, a court in Tbilisi sentenced Saakashvili to six years in prison in absentia after convicting him of ordering law enforcement officers to beat up a lawmaker in 2005.

In January, Saakashvili was sentenced in absentia to three years in prison after being convicted of trying to cover up evidence about the 2006 killing of a Georgian banker.

The former president, who now lives in the Netherlands, has rejected all the charges, calling them politically motivated.

With reporting by Rustavi-2 and gordon.uaThe United States' top intelligence official has quietly revealed key new details about Russia's alleged violations of a bedrock Cold War nuclear treaty, an unexpected move that comes as U.S. officials push to build new support from European allies.

Congress, meanwhile, is gearing up for a new fight over U.S. arms-control policy, even as President Donald Trump's administration intends to withdraw from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty and has signaled lukewarm support for another even bigger nuclear treaty.

Taken together, the developments mark a new phase in the fight between Moscow and Washington over the fate of their two nuclear arsenals, and highlight fears that the two countries are sliding into a new arms race.

Beginning in 2014, the United States publicly accused Russia of violating the INF, which eliminated, among other things, an entire class of intermediate-range missiles.

In a statement published November 30, Dan Coats, the U.S. director of national intelligence, for the first time revealed significantly more evidence from U.S. intelligence about the type of missile Russia tested and how it was tested. Coats said the Russia tested the missile from a fixed launcher and then a mobile launcher -- one within the range banned by the INF treaty.

"By putting the two types of tests together, Russia was able to develop a missile that flies to the intermediate ranges prohibited by the INF Treaty and launches from a ground-mobile platform," Coats said.

"It's a big deal," says Thomas Moore, a former staffer for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and longtime arms-control specialist who worked on multiple treaties. "Those are the relevant details you would need to say, Yes, they have violated the INF.'"

It wasn't clear why exactly Coats had decided to reveal more specific evidence now. The State Department did not respond to e-mails seeking comment.

U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis echoed the tough rhetoric toward Moscow, saying the Kremlin had undermined trust on the issue of missile treaties.

"We are dealing with someone that we simply cannot trust," Mattis said during a speech at the Reagan National Defense Forum in California. "There is no doubt the relationship has worsened.

"We are dealing with Putin's duplicitous violation of the INF Treaty," Mattis said. 

To Europe, With Evidence

Coats' announcement came as he headed to Europe to brief NATO allies on the U.S decision to withdraw from the INF. NATO foreign ministers, meeting in Brussels, are expected on December 4 to announce a stronger condemnation of Russia's alleged violations -- and possibly a stronger endorsement of the U.S. evidence of the violation.

Two days earlier, however, the Dutch ministers of defense and foreign affairs said in a letter to Dutch lawmakers that the Netherlands had obtained proof of the Russian missile violation.

Vladimir Putin has spent a decade cheating on existing treaties like the INF, building up his nuclear arsenal, and rewriting the rule book on the nuclear triad."

"The Netherlands can independently confirm that Russia has developed and is currently introducing a ground-based cruise weapon," said the letter, published on the Dutch parliament's website.

There was no independent confirmation of the report, but if true it would be first time that a NATO ally has publicly corroborated the U.S. allegations.

And on November 30, the same day as Coats' announcement, the German news magazine Der Spiegel, citing unnamed sources, said that U.S. officials had shared raw intelligence about the Russian missile.

According to the magazine, U.S. officials have not only shared satellite imagery of a flight of the banned Russian missile, but also evidence of the Russian companies and entities involved in the design and manufacture of the missile and its launchers.

Enter Congress

In Congress, meanwhile, attitudes toward Moscow have hardened markedly since Russia's annexation of Ukraine's Crimea Peninsula in 2014 and the conclusions of the U.S. intelligence community that the Kremlin interfered in the 2016 presidential election.

Last year, lawmakers included several provisions in the annual defense-policy legislation aimed at forcing Russia back into compliance with the INF.

One included the development of a new ground-launched cruise missile that would ultimately be deployed in Europe, similar to what happened in the mid-1980s, in the years before the INF Treaty was signed.

WATCH: Putin's 'Invincible' New Weapons (originally published March 1, 2018)

On November 29, a group of several Senate Democrats, and the chamber's only independent, introduced legislation that would block funding of such a missile unless Trump administration officials met certain conditions, including identifying where such missiles would be deployed in the first place.

"Congress must not fund new ground-launched or ballistic missiles that will fuel a dangerous arms race across the globe," one of the legislation's co-sponsors, Senator Jeff Merkley (Democrat-Oregon), said in a statement.

Republican Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas, meanwhile, joined with Republican congresswoman Liz Cheney in linking the fate of the INF to that of the New START treaty, a larger, more comprehensive deal that limits the overall size of the U.S. and Russian nuclear stockpiles.

We know all our weapons perfectly, and we know that none of them violates our treaty obligations, as we continue to insist."

New START is due to expire in 2021, though there is a provision that allows for it to be extended by mutual agreement.

In a joint statement, Cotton and Cheney called New START deeply flawed and called for cutting off all funding for U.S. compliance unless the Trump administrations comes up with a better way to ensure Russia wasn't cheating on the treaty.

"Vladimir Putin has spent a decade cheating on existing treaties like the INF, building up his nuclear arsenal, and rewriting the rule book on the nuclear triad by introducing new ways of launching a nuclear attack," Cotton said. "It's clear the old START model isn't going to cut it. This bill ensures all, not some, of Russia's nuclear arsenal is on the table in the next round of negotiations."

Both bills "are just awful," former Senate staffer Moore says. "One thinks that Russia needs New START and so, in order to get INF compliance, we should kill chances of extension. The other penalizes the U.S. for Russian violations. Neither bill denies Russia any benefit of its INF violations and nor does U.S. withdrawal."

While Republicans continue to control the Senate, ensuring that Democratic-backed legislation will have an uphill battle to passage, the Democrats will take control of the House of Representatives, and much of its agenda, in January.

In an interview with the Arms Control Association, a Washington think tank, Adam Smith, the incoming chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, said he opposed the Trump administration's withdrawal from the INF, as well as another proposal for a new series of small, low-yield nuclear weapons.

"I think we would benefit from greater dialogue with Russia. It's actually something that I do agree with the president on. I don't...necessarily agree with the way he's handled it, but as two of the greatest military powers, I think the whole world would benefit from us having more robust discussions and negotiations with the Russians on all of these issues," Smith said.

In Moscow, Russian officials have reacted sternly to the Trump withdrawal from the INF and signaled that Moscow would consider deploying its own missile on the territory of allies, such as Belarus, if the United States and NATO move to deploy similar weapons in Europe.

"We know all our weapons perfectly, and we know that none of them violates our treaty obligations, as we continue to insist," Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told reporters in Moscow November 26.

Washington's European allies, meanwhile, have voiced growing concerns about the U.S. nuclear plans, even as many are troubled by Russia's increasingly belligerent military actions in Ukraine and along the borders of some NATO member states.

"The onus is on Russia. NATO does not want a new Cold War or a new arms race, and we will do all we can to avoid them. But Russia, too, must play its part," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said in an opinion article. "We remain ready to talk with Russia and to work together towards a better and more secure future."

Pavel Podvig, a Geneva-based arms researcher, said there were still possibilities to keep the INF from falling apart entirely.

"The situation is not totally hopeless, but it would require a fairly high level of trust, strong commitment to preserve the treaty, and probably Russia's willingness to take some corrective actions," he wrote. "Alas, all these are in short supply these days."District officials informed parents this weekend about the potential strike. Classes would be canceled Tuesday if a strike takes place and all after-school activities, athletics and field trips would be canceled. Students who attend the Fox Valley Career Center, a Mid-Valley Special Education Cooperative program, or are enrolled in a therapeutic day placement would still be able to attend school, according to the district. Preschool at the park district-run Friendship Station program in Geneva Middle School South will not be canceled, the district said.U.S. President Donald Trump says he is certain that "at some time in the future" he, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin "will start talking about a meaningful halt to what has become a major and uncontrollable Arms Race."

Trump made the remark on Twitter on December 3 after holding talks with Xi and a brief discussion with Putin during a G20 summit in Buenos Aires late last week.

Trump added that the United States spent $716 billion this year, suggesting that was the amount it had spent on weapons or the military, and adding, "Crazy!"

The tweet came amid tension between Washington and Moscow over Trump's announcement in October that the United States will withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty.

The bilateral 1987 pact prohibits Russia and the United States from producing, possessing, and deploying ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometers.

Trump said the United States would withdraw because of an alleged Russian violation and because of concerns that the treaty binds the United States to restrictions while leaving nuclear-armed countries that are not signatories, such as China, free to develop and deploy the missiles.

There is no sign that the United States has formally withdrawn from the pact as yet.





Speaking ahead of a NATO foreign-ministers meeting on December 4-5, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said that the current impasse over the INF treaty was "untenable" and demanded Russia come into compliance.



"This treaty eliminated an entire category of weapons, but it has been put in jeopardy by Russia," Stoltenberg said in Brussels. "Russia has developed, produced, and deployed a new missile. It is mobile and hard to detect. It is nuclear-capable. And it could reach European cities with little or no warning time."



"Russia must take immediate steps to ensure full compliance with the INF Treaty in a transparent and verifiable way.... We seek dialogue with Russia and we aspire to improved relations, but to make this possible Russia must fully comply with its international commitments," he said.



The United States accuses Russia of violating the INF with its Novator 9M729 cruise missile, also known as the SSC-8. Russia denies it is in violation and claims that the United States has breached the pact.



Stoltenberg rejected that claim, saying that the United States "is in full compliance with the INF Treaty. There are no new U.S. missiles in Europe. But there are new Russian missiles."



With tension between Moscow and Washington persistently high amid an array of disputes, there is also uncertainty over the fate of New START, a 2010 treaty that put new limits on the Russian and U.S. long-range nuclear arsenals. The pact expires in 2021 but can be extended for five years.



The NATO meeting also comes amid tension over Russia's seizure of three Ukrainian naval vessels and 24 sailors near the Kerch Strait off the coast of Crimea on November 25.



Trump cited the fact that Russia was still holding the sailors -- who are charged with illegal border crossing and could be sentenced to six years in prison if tried and convicted -- when he canceled a scheduled December 1 meeting with Putin in Buenos Aires.



NATO ministers will discuss the issue, Stoltenberg said, adding that there was "no justification for this use of force" by Russia and calling for "calm and restraint."



"Russia must release the Ukrainian sailors and ships," he said. "It must also allow freedom of navigation and unhindered access to Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov. Ukrainian vessels -- military as well as civilian -- have the right to navigate through the Kerch Strait and the Sea of Azov."



The United States and the European Union have also called on Russia to release the Ukrainian sailors and ensure normal passage through the Kerch Strait to the Sea of Azov, where Ukraine has key ports.



The confrontation off Crimea has added to tension over Crimea, which Russia occupied and took over from Ukraine in March 2014, and a simmering war between Kyiv and Russia-backed separatists that has killed more than 10,300 people in eastern Ukraine since April 2014.

With reporting by Rikard Jozwiak in Brussels, dpa, and ReutersThe U.S. special representative for Iran has urged the European Union to impose new sanctions targeting Iran's ballistic-missile program, calling it a "grave and escalating threat."

Brian Hook made the call on December 3, two days after U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo condemned what he described as Iran's testing of a medium-range ballistic missile "capable of carrying multiple warheads" and striking parts of Europe and the entire Middle East.

The Iranian military has said it will keep conducting missile tests despite Western condemnation.

The latest statements from Pompeo and Hook come amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington, which earlier this year imposed tough sanctions on Iran's economy.

The move was part of a broader U.S. campaign to pressure Iran over what the President Donald Trump's administration describes as its "malign conduct" such as missile development and support for militant groups in the Middle East.

Tehran has repeatedly rejected negotiations over its missile program and insists the missiles are only to be used for defensive purposes.

Speaking aboard Pompeo's plane as he traveled to Brussels for a NATO meeting, Hook told reporters that Washington "would like to see the European Union move sanctions that target Iran's missile program."

The U.S. envoy said that Trump's campaign of "maximum pressure" on Tehran since withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers in May "can be effective if more nations can join us in those [sanctions]."

"It is a grave and escalating threat, and nations around the world, not just Europe, need to do everything they can to be targeting Iran's missile program," Hook said.

He also said that "progress" was being made on getting NATO allies to consider a proposal to target individuals and entities that play key roles in Iran's missile program.

European countries have criticized Trump's decision to withdraw the United States from the Iran nuclear deal and are working to preserve the accord that lifted sanctions on Tehran in exchange for curbs on its nuclear activities, even though they have also criticized Iranian positions on other issues.

In a December 1 statement, Pompeo charged that Iran's testing of a medium-range ballistic missile violated UN Security Council Resolution 2231, which endorsed the Iran nuclear deal.

Pompeo warned that Iran's "missile testing and missile proliferation is growing," and called on the country to "cease immediately all activities related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons."

The French Foreign Ministry issued a similar call, condemning the Iranian missile test as "provocative and destabilizing."

Iran's military did not confirm or deny it had tested a new missile, but said it will "continue to both develop and test missiles."

"Missile tests...are carried out for defense and the country's deterrence, and we will continue this," the semiofficial Tasnim news agency quoted Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, a spokesman for Iran's armed forces, as saying on December 2.

Shekarchi said such activity "is outside the framework of [nuclear] negotiations and part of our national security, for which we will not ask any country's permission."

With reporting by AFP, AP, and ReutersBRUSSELS -- The head of NATO has demanded that Russia release Ukrainian sailors and naval vessels it seized in a confrontation at sea, while Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman says concerns that Moscow could seek to create a "land corridor" linking Russia to Crimea are "absurd."

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg and Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov spoke on December 3 as Russia continued to hold the 24 Ukrainian seamen in Moscow jails on border-violation charges Kyiv rejects.

"Russia recently seized Ukrainian ships and sailors near the Kerch Strait. There is no justification for this use of force. We call for calm and restraint. Russia must release the Ukrainian sailors and ships," Stoltenberg said on the eve of a two-day meeting of NATO foreign ministers who will address that issue, among others.

Russia, he said, "must also allow freedom of navigation and unhindered access to Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov. Ukrainian vessels -- military as well as civilian -- have the right to navigate through the Kerch Strait and the Sea of Azov."

Russia has been holding the sailors -- crewmen from three Ukrainian naval craft -- since the confrontation on November 25 in which Russian Coast Guard ships rammed a Ukrainian Navy tugboat and fired on the boats before special forces boarded them.

The clash has added to tension over Crimea, which Russia occupied and took over from Ukraine in March 2014, and raised fears of a flare-up in a simmering war between Kyiv and Russia-backed separatists that has killed more than 10,300 people in eastern Ukraine since April 2014.

The Russia-backed separatists hold parts of the Luhansk and Donetsk regions, including a piece of shoreline that lies between the Russian border and the Ukrainian Sea of Azov port city of Mariupol.

Peskov dismissed concerns that Russia could seek to gain access by land to Crimea by seizing or helping the separatists to seize territory on the Azov shore from Mariupol to the isthmus further west that links the Ukrainian mainland to Crimea.

"It's an absolutely absurd claim. It is another attempt to generate tension. Regretfully, attempts like this will most likely continue as we approach" the Ukrainian presidential election scheduled for March 31, he said.

Peskov claimed that "Russia has never invaded anything or created any corridors anywhere."

But in addition to occupying and taking over Crimea, Kyiv, NATO, and Western governments say there is ample evidence that Russia has given the separatists in eastern Ukraine major military support in the war.

Meanwhile, a lawyer for one of the Ukrainian sailors confirmed on December 3 that all 24 had been charged by Russian authorities with "illegal border crossing."

Nikolai Polozov, who is representing Denys Hrytsenko, said the sailors were formally charged on November 27.

Dzhemil Temishev, an attorney for another of the sailors, said on November 29 that 21 of the detainees were being transferred from Russia-annexed Crimea to the Lefortovo detention center in Moscow.

Russian authorities say three other Ukrainian sailors wounded on November 25 were receiving medical treatment at a different, unspecified detention center.

Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova said on December 3 that the detained Ukrainian sailors had food, "clothes, and all the necessities."

In remarks that appeared aimed to portray the jailing of the sailors as a strictly legal issue and tell the world that they were not being mistreated, Moskalkova said on state-run Rossia-24 TV that rights monitors "have visited the sailors and spoken with every one of them."

She said the sailors "have no complaints about custody conditions or medical aid" and that lawyers had access to their clients. Her comments could not be independently verified.

The incident has raised tensions between Kyiv and Moscow to their highest point since Moscow seized Crimea.

Ukraine imposed martial law for 30 days in 10 regions, including all of those that border Russia or have coastlines on the Black Sea or the Sea of Azov.

Russia and Ukraine blame each other for the altercation. Russia closed the Kerch Strait to all sea traffic during the incident, and Kyiv says Russia has continued to deny passage to Ukrainian commercial traffic in and out of Mariupol and Berdyansk, another port on the Sea of Azov.

Western leaders -- including all members of the G7 leading industrialized states -- have called on Russia to release the Ukrainian crew and return the seized navy ships to Kyiv.

With reporting by Rikard Jozwiak in Brussels, TASS, and InterfaxUnited Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres says the world's political will to fight global climate change has waned since a 2015 conference in Paris that set ambitious goals for reducing carbon-dioxide emissions.

Speaking in Katowice, Poland on December 3 at the start of a two-week UN climate summit, Guterres said the realities of global climate change are "worse than expected, but the political will is relatively faded after Paris."

The Paris conference set a goal of keeping global warming below 2 degrees Celsius.

But a new study presented at the Katowice summit says U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris climate agreement is restricting global efforts to cut carbon emissions.

The study by the International Institute of International and European Affairs says Trump's words and deeds are causing "very real damage" to the Paris agreement.

It concludes that the U.S. decision to withdraw from the Paris agreement has created the political cover for other countries to slow down their efforts to reach emissions-reduction targets.

Meanwhile, the World Bank announced on December 3 that it will invest about $200 billion from 2021 to 2025 with the aim of helping to fight global climate change.

Delegates from nearly 200 countries are gathering in the southern Polish city for the UN conference, known officially as COP24.

Under the Paris deal, richer countries responsible for the majority of greenhouse-gas emissions are expected to provide funds that developing countries can use to make their economies more climate-friendly.

The World Bank investment is seen as offering reassurance to countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

"A failure to act now risks pushing us beyond a point of no return with catastrophic consequences for life as we know it," said Amjad Abdulla, chief negotiator for the Alliance of Small Island States at COP24.

Much of the money for climate change is for installing renewable energy to replace fossil-fuel usage in poor countries.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, BBC, and dpaA fourth U.S. soldier has died from wounds suffered last week in a roadside-bomb blast in central Afghanistan, the Pentagon says.

Sergeant Jason Mitchell McClary, 24, died on December 2 at a U.S. military hospital in Germany.

McClary was from Export, Pennsylvania.

His death takes the number of U.S. military personnel to have been killed in Afghanistan this year to 13.

Three U.S. service members were killed on November 27 when an improvised explosive device detonated near the city of Ghazni, the U.S. military said at the time.

Three other soldiers, including McClary, and a U.S. contractor were wounded.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack -- the deadliest against U.S. forces in Afghanistan this year.

The militants have an active presence in several parts of Ghazni Province.

Some 14,000 U.S. soldiers are currently serving in Afghanistan, where the United States and NATO formally concluded their combat mission in 2014.

Most of the remaining Western forces mainly train and advise the Afghan security forces, which have been struggling against attacks from a resurgent Taliban and other militant extremist groups. There are also several thousand U.S. Special Forces conducting counterterrorism missions.

Based on reporting by AP and AFPThe Russian Defense Ministry has announced a new early-warning radar may be built in Crimea in 2019. Here is where Russia's other radars are located.Its really important that we make our family unit strong and that we make our community unit strong because when you have those strong units, the negativity cant get in your space, said Brownlee, who led a Kwanzaa program Sunday at Gail Borden Public Library in Elgin.Alleged gang member shot inside Playa del Carmen car wash

Playa del Carmen, Q.R.  A man who was shot while inside a central Playa del Carmen car wash Saturday was rushed to hospital in stable condition.

Early reports say that armed men arrived at the car wash in a black van where they opened fired against a male person. The shooting occurred at a car wash on Calle 18 Norte and Avenida 45 behind a Burger King in the Gonzalo Guerrero neighborhood.

Reports say that the man who was shot was a member of a criminal organization called Chacon Mantilla.

Paramedics arrived at the car wash to find the recently shot man with vital signs. He was rushed to hospital. His assailants fled, however, due to the distinctness of the van, police immediately launched a search for the vehicle.

There were no reports of any arrests or updates on the health status of the victim.Federal police arrest man for allegedly heading drug dealers aimed at tourists

Playa del Carmen, Q.R.  Federal agents have detained a man who is the alleged head of a network of drug dealers in central Playa del Carmen aimed at tourists.

The man, who is reported to be Moroccan-born, was taken into custody on Constituyentes Avenue in the Ejidal neighborhood. Police were aware of the Quintana Roo-plated Nissan Versa associated with the group. Once spotted, the vehicle was pulled over, which is when the driver attempted to flee.

Reports say the man is the alleged ringleader of a foreign network of drug dealers responsible for the sale of narcotics aimed at tourists in Fifth Avenue bars. Allegations say he heads a crew of at least 15 and is also responsible for extortion against hotel managers and other business owners.

Photo: Agentes de la Policia Federal

Federal police have identified the man as Mounir N, who when arrested, was in possession of a Mexican voters card in his name. After a search, police also found numerous items including cash in various denominations, a gun and more than 100 street-packages of various drugs.

He was handed over to the Attorney Generals Office. Police say that information on the man was made through a citizen complaint.Crawshaw's headquarters in Hellaby

A CHAIN of butchers which is based in Hellaby has been saved after it was bought for 1.4 million.

Crawshaw's Butchers has been bought by a group headed up by businessman Mr Thomas Cribbin.

The deal has saved 240 jobs at the chains remaining 19 stores, as well as its head office and warehouse in Hellaby.

Crawshaw's closed 35 stores and made 354 people redundant in October when it went into administration, citing insufficient cash resources.

Among the stores to close was the Howard Street branch in Rotherham town centre, where seven people lost their jobs.

A total of 25 people lost their jobs at the head office and warehouse in Hellaby  11 in the head office and 14 in production.

Crawshaws factory outlet at Spar, on Manvers Way, Wath, which opened on October 12, remained open.

After going into administration, Crawshaw's began searching for a buyer to save its remaining 19 stores and its depot at Hellaby.

In a statement today (Monday), Crawshaw's said that it had received more than 50 expressions of interest in parts or all of the business.

Mr Cribbin, whose company Loughanure bought the firm on Saturday, previously operated a chain of butchers in the Republic of Ireland.

Crawshaw's said it expected its listing on the junior London Stock Exchange, AIM, to be cancelled on Wednesday.A SCHOOL in Wickersley reopened this morning - three days after it was forced to close for urgent repairs.

St Alban's Primary School had to close on Friday (November 30) to all staff and pupils with immediate effect.

The school has now explained the reason for the closure in a post on its website that the closure was down to "safety concerns", after it was discovered there were issues with a full length window in the school hall.

A spokesperson for Rotherham Borough Council said: "The health and safety of pupils is paramount and that is why the council's building management officers arranged for necessary repairs to be carried out over the weekend as a matter of urgency in order to ensure the school was safe to open as normal on Monday.

The school made all parents and carers aware of the situation and kept lines of communication open with them throughout the process.An industry leader who needs no introduction to the gem and jewellery industry is Sanjay Kotharithe former chairman of the GJEPC of India has held various positions in the Council including being Convener-Exhibitions for many years before becoming Convener-Promotions & Marketing; was the spokesperson for the Natural Diamond Monitoring Committee (NDMC) and so on.

Under Kotharis leadership, the GJEPC initiated ANANT, a diamond promotion program and also, India International Jewellery Week --- Indias first ever jewellery week. He has led delegations as well as being a member of various Gems & Jewellery Industry delegations organized by the Council to countries in the Latin America and Middle-East regions, and not only.

Kothari is a visionary and a philanthropist. He is a member of the Gem and Jewellery National Relief fund and Jagat Maitri Trust. He is also one of the Directors of M/s. Diatrends Jewellery Pvt. Ltd.

In an interview with Rough&Polished, Sanjay Kothari elucidates on his plans for GJSCI as well as sees India grow to greater heights in jewellery manufacturing.

Some excerpts:

Congratulations Sir on being appointed Chairman of the Gem & Jewellery Skill Corporation of India (GJSCI). We are confident of your leadership in steering this organization, as you did during your tenure as GJEPC Chairman for 2 consecutive terms. To begin with, what new initiative have you taken up and how do you plan to go about executing your ideas?

Thank you very much. This is a major responsibility and I hope to carry this out with the active support from my fellow board members, parent organizations of GJSCI; namely GJEPC, GJC, SGJMA, JAJ and all the other stakeholders of our industry. My first objective is to reach out to all these stakeholders and make them aware of GJSCIs activities and seek their active collaboration. There are many government schemes like National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and Recognition of Prior Learning  Best in Class Employer (RPL-4); which are very beneficial for our industry but most of us are not aware of these. Through this reaching out effort, I want to engage with them and onboard them for various beneficial schemes. For this, GJSCI is actively going to participate in various events across India, organize press meets like the one held recently in Mumbai, request trade magazines to give wide coverage to our activities and encourage industry bodies to get associated with GJSCI for various activities.

How important is it for the gem and jewellery industry in India to upgrade itself by absorbing new and the latest most sophisticated technologies but also in terms of recruiting certified skilled workforce so as to be on par with industries across the globe?

Our industry needs to understand that it is absolutely critical to both upgrade and absorb new technologies and recruit certified skilled workforce. This will not only make our industry more uniform and organized but will also prepare the ground for us to compete with the worlds best manufacturing countries like Italy, Hong Kong, etc. I have a dream to see India become a world leader in high-end jewellery manufacturing and this is the right time for our industry to embrace this vision.

Does India have the requisite number of training institutes to cater to the fast-growing gem and jewellery industry? What steps should be taken by the government in this matter? Are private institutions showing interest in starting gem and jewellery related courses, etc.? Names of the institutions, please?

The number of current institutes is very few, particularly in the field of jewellery manufacturing. There are established institutes in the area of Diamond grading and assortment, Hand sketch designing, CAD operator, Gemologist etc. but very few when it comes to training the candidates on manufacturing skills. The government should support the skilling initiative by helping industry bodies like GJEPC, GJC, etc., set up these manufacturing training centers with advanced equipment and machinery. GJEPC is conducting a Cluster Development study through NCAER and these clusters should also work as training centers. Another very important requirement is the establishment of academies/institutes for Training of Trainers in each of the clusters as only good trained trainers can ensure properly trained and employable candidates. There are a few institutions working in the area of training for the gem and jewellery industry like IIGJs (a GJEPC initiative), GIA, GII, IGJ etc.

How do you think that training institutes and industry bodies could join hands as partners and grow the industry? Can you elaborate, please?

Training institutes and industry bodies have to play a very important role if this entire skilling initiative has to be successful. We need trainers and assessors with industry background and knowledge to join hands with GJSCI for not only effective training but also to provide timely inputs to keep the curriculum updated and relevant for the industry. Their active participation will also help in filling up any existing gaps in the job roles which have been so far identified and taken up by GJSCI for training purpose. The leading industry bodies can actually lead the path for the establishment of training infrastructure for the industry.

Also, is it a known fact that the Indian gem and jewellery industry prefers to hire known or recommended personnel from peers, which is in some way legitimate given the kind of business pattern in the gem and jewellery industry. Can this mindset of business owners be changed, if at all? Your thoughts?

I very strongly feel that it is both possible as well as required to change this mindset if our industry wants to compete at the world stage. There are many companies in our industry also who follow the completely professional approach in training and recruitment of fresh candidates and they are extremely successful. It is only a matter of time when the industry will have to look beyond the immediate consideration set of known or referred people for recruitment. Moreover, all of us have a combined responsibility of making the gem and jewellery industry an inspirational one and formal training and standardized certification and employment opportunities are going to be crucial for this.

Can you, for the benefit of our readers, briefly explain GJSCIs initiatives like Project Vanika and Project Rupaantar and Project Hupari which might be beneficial to interested students to get trained?

Project Vanika and Project Rupaantar are two projects with a different focused audience. Through project Vanika, we are trying to train and empower the tribal women in scheduled tribal areas so that they can have a regular source of income without getting into a full-time wage employment. Project Rupaantar is focused on training jail inmates, particularly first time offenders with a view to skill them so that they can be gainfully employed not only while serving their term but also after their release.

Hupari is a village cluster in Kolhapur district of Maharashtra and is known for its silver anklets. There are more than 30000 artisans in this area who still use old, unproductive and somewhat hazardous processes in their micro units. GJSCI is working to establish a Common Facility Centre (CFC) cum Training institute in Hupari not only to upgrade the processes and improve the productivity of Hupari artisans but also to provide fresh training for new people looking to join the industry and help them induct new designs to upgrade their product line as well.

Till now, in what fields of gem and jewellery has GJSCI been instrumental in imparting training to candidates? Please give details.

GJSCI works for all the subsectors of gem and jewellery industry viz. diamond processing, gemstone processing, jewellery manufacturing, wholesale, retail and export including imitation jewellery. Till now, training has been imparted in all these subsectors. Some of the leading job-roles have been Hand sketch Designer, CAD operator, Jewellery Retail Sales Associate, Frame maker, Component maker, Polisher & Cleaner, Appraiser and valuer etc. As you know, GJSCI doesnt directly impart any training. The training is imparted by the affiliated training partners through NSDC.

What was the outcome of the Road Show GJSCI conducted in SEEPZ on 26th October 2018 along with National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)? Was the response from the manufacturing units positive? Your comments.

The roadshow on 26th October was primarily focused on Apprenticeship and National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme. The idea was to share the new provisions of the act and NAPS and how are they beneficial to the industry at large and the gem and jewellery industry in particular.

The manufacturing units both from within and outside SEEPZ participated in this event and we have received a highly positive response. As an industry, gem and jewellery is second only to a retail industry in terms of adoption and use of the new Apprenticeship Scheme.

Aruna Gaitonde, Editor in Chief of the Asian Bureau, Rough & Polished





Punjab Vidhan Sabha

Chandigarh, Dec 3 (PTI) The Punjab cabinet Monday decided to summon the next state assembly session from December 13 to 15. A decision to this effect was taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh here, according to an official spokesman. With the cabinet decision, the Punjab governor has been authorised to convene the sixth session of the 15th Punjab Vidhan Sabha, as per clause (1) of Article 174 of the Constitution of India.

A spokesperson said the session would commence on the afternoon of December 13 with obituary references. Legislative business would be transacted in both the morning and evening sessions on December 14. The house would adjourn sine-die after the proposed legislative business on December 15, said the spokesperson.Being present at a screening is everything to me, she said via email ahead of her scheduled appearance at Oakton. When I can hear an audience react in real time, take immediate questions and engage in conversations, I feel like the film is alive and I have a purpose as a filmmaker. I also really love it when an audience member riffs on a theme or topic the film touches upon and we start a conversation. The opportunity for a true back and forth and for conversation beyond the film itself is invaluable.AAP MP Bhagwant Mann

Spokesman News Service: Chandigarh, Dec.3: AAP MP Bhagwant Mann today blamed Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh for blowing irrelevant issues to divert the attention of people from important issues before the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Reacting to recent outburst by Congress minister Navjot Singh Sidhu on the issue of 'real Kaptan' of party, Bhagwant Mann said that it was war for supremacy among the three captains.

Captain Amarinder Singh

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He said that it was interesting to see one calling the others captain of army and another a political captain. People of Punjab have nothing to do with Who among them is big captain ? He said that people were looking for the 'captain' who was projected by Prashant Kishore as 'saviour of Punjab'. Unfortunately this Captain has proved a 'flop-show' during last about two years of governance.

Mann said taht people of Punjab were repenting their decision of electing Congress government. The ministers are demanding resignation of each other on flimsy grounds. It would have been better if ministers would have demanded resignations from each other on the basis of their report cards. Lashing on Badals, AAP MP said that they have disintegrated and now trying to find lost political ground by shedding crocodiles tears on various issues.

Navjot Singh Sidhu

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He said that Badals had it would have been better if Akalis insisted to scrib name of Guru Nanak Dev ji on the foundation stone of Kartarpur Sahib corridor. Mann said that AAP express gratitude to all leaders including Navjot Sidhu, Kuldip Singh Wadala and Prime Ministers of India and Pakistan for their efforts to make the Kartarpur Sahib corridor a reality.Punjab Cabinet clears Draft Punjab Water Resources Bill

Spokesman News Service: Chandigarh, December 3: The Punjab Cabinet, led by Captain Amarinder Singh, on Monday approved the draft of Punjab Water Resources (Management and Regulation) Bill, 2018, aimed at ensuring judicious, equitable and sustainable utilisation and management of the states critical water resources. The proposed Punjab Water Regulation and Development Authority (PWRDA) would have a Chairman, besides two members to be appointed by the state government.

The Authority would be empowered to take all such measures as it deems necessary or expedient for the objective for which it is to be set up, and would have powers to issue directions and guidelines for the conservation and management of the water resources. The Authority would also be empowered to issue tariff orders specifying the charges to be imposed by entities supplying water for drinking, domestic, commercial or industrial use.

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The bill further proposes an Advisory Committee on Water Resources, headed by Chairman of the Authority to be notified by the Govt., consisting of experts and ex-officio members from various government departments to advise the Authority. The Authority may also engage experts on its own.

The Authority shall have and maintain a separate fund to be called the PWRDA Fund in which the grants/loans would be credited by the state government. The Bill also proposes to empower the government to issue to the Authority such general or specific directions in writing in the matters of policy involving public interest and the Authority shall be bound to follow and act upon such directs.A: I still have a full-time job. Ive been in communications for 25 years. I decided to go back to acting when my older sons left the house and my younger son was in high school. I started to go back to acting class four or five years ago. Ive been performing consistently for the last two years.On Saturday, December 1, scientists attending the Gravitational Wave Physics and Astronomy Workshop in College Park, Maryland, presented new results from the National Science Foundation's LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory) and the European- based VIRGO gravitational-wave detector regarding their searches for coalescing cosmic objects, such as pairs of black holes and pairs of neutron stars. The LIGO and Virgo collaborations have now confidently detected gravitational waves from a total of 10 stellar-mass binary black hole mergers and one merger of neutron stars, which are the dense, spherical remains of stellar explosions. Six of the black hole merger events had been reported before, while four are newly announced.

From September 12, 2015, to January 19, 2016, during the first LIGO observing run since undergoing upgrades in a program called Advanced LIGO, gravitational waves from three binary black hole mergers were detected. The second observing run, which lasted from November 30, 2016, to August 25, 2017, yielded one binary neutron star merger and seven additional binary black hole mergers, including the four new gravitational-wave events being reported now. The new events are known as GW170729, GW170809, GW170818, and GW170823, in reference to the dates they were detected.

All of the events are included in a new catalog, also released Saturday, with some of the events breaking records. For instance, the new event GW170729, detected in the second observing run on July 29, 2017, is the most massive and distant gravitational-wave source ever observed. In this coalescence, which happened roughly 5 billion years ago, an equivalent energy of almost five solar masses was converted into gravitational radiation.

GW170814 was the first binary black hole merger measured by the three-detector network, and allowed for the first tests of gravitational-wave polarization (analogous to light polarization).

The event GW170817, detected three days after GW170814, represented the first time that gravitational waves were ever observed from the merger of a binary neutron star system. What's more, this collision was seen in gravitational waves and light, marking an exciting new chapter in multi-messenger astronomy, in which cosmic objects are observed simultaneously in different forms of radiation.

One of the new events, GW170818, which was detected by the global network formed by the LIGO and Virgo observatories, was very precisely pinpointed in the sky. The position of the binary black holes, located 2.5 billion light-years from Earth, was identified in the sky with a precision of 39 square degrees. That makes it the next best localized gravitational-wave source after the GW170817 neutron star merger.

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Caltech's Albert Lazzarini, Deputy Director of the LIGO Laboratory, says "The release of four additional binary black hole mergers further informs us of the nature of the population of these binary systems in the universe and better constrains the event rate for these types of events."

"In just one year, LIGO and VIRGO working together have dramatically advanced gravitational- wave science, and the rate of discovery suggests the most spectacular findings are yet to come," says Denise Caldwell, Director of NSF's Division of Physics. "The accomplishments of NSF's LIGO and its international partners are a source of pride for the agency, and we expect even greater advances as LIGO's sensitivity becomes better and better in the coming year."

"The next observing run, starting in Spring 2019, should yield many more gravitational-wave candidates, and the science the community can accomplish will grow accordingly," says David Shoemaker, spokesperson for the LIGO Scientific Collaboration and senior research scientist in MIT's Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research. "It's an incredibly exciting time."

"It is gratifying to see the new capabilities that become available through the addition of Advanced Virgo to the global network," says Jo van den Brand of Nikhef (the Dutch National Institute for Subatomic Physics) and VU University Amsterdam, who is the spokesperson for the Virgo Collaboration. "Our greatly improved pointing precision will allow astronomers to rapidly find any other cosmic messengers emitted by the gravitational-wave sources." The enhanced pointing capability of the LIGO-Virgo network is made possible by exploiting the time delays of the signal arrival at the different sites and the so-called antenna patterns of the interferometers.

"The new catalog is another proof of the exemplary international collaboration of the gravitational wave community and an asset for the forthcoming runs and upgrades" adds EGO Director Stavros Katsanevas.

The scientific papers describing these new findings, which are being initially published on the arXiv repository of electronic preprints, present detailed information in the form of a catalog of all the gravitational wave detections and candidate events of the two observing runs as well as describing the characteristics of the merging black hole population. Most notably, we find that almost all black holes formed from stars are lighter than 45 times the mass of the Sun. Thanks to more advanced data processing and better calibration of the instruments, the accuracy of the astrophysical parameters of the previously announced events increased considerably.

Laura Cadonati, Deputy Spokesperson for the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, says "These new discoveries were only made possible through the tireless and carefully coordinated work of the detector commissioners at all three observatories, and the scientists around the world responsible for data quality and cleaning, searching for buried signals, and parameter estimation for each candidate -- each a scientific specialty requiring enormous expertise and experience."Epigenetics is the expression and control of genes. The epigenetics involved in the inner ear is a critical part of the mystery of hearing. A team led by Prof. Karen B. Avraham, Vice Dean of the Sackler Faculty of Medicine at Tel Aviv University, has now created the first map of "methylation" -- one of the body's main epigenetic signals -- that reflects the functioning of the inner ear in its entirety.

Prof. Avraham collaborated on the study with TAU doctoral student Ofer Yizhar-Barnea and Prof. R. David Hawkins and other colleagues from the University of Washington and the Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia in Italy. Their research was published in a study in Scientific Reports on November 26.

"Our analysis of the DNA methylation dynamics revealed a large number of new genes that are critical for the development of the inner ear and the onset of hearing itself," Prof. Avraham says. "Instead of looking at one gene at a time, we employed sophisticated genomic technologies to examine all the genes in one snapshot. This allowed us to have a genome-wide view of the regulatory dynamics of the inner ear as a whole."

The life cycle of hearing

Humans are born with a lifetime allowance of inner ear hair cells, the inner ear cells responsible for hearing. Once the cells die due to genetic mutations, excessive exposure to noise, ototoxic drugs or aging, they don't regenerate. Some 34 million children worldwide suffer from incapacitating hearing loss, according to the World Health Organization. Among the elderly, hearing loss is associated with a higher risk of dementia, and hearing aids and cochlear implants provide only partial solutions to an urgent medical issue facing young and old alike.

"Epigenetic signals -- among them methylation -- don't allow the genes that could regenerate hair cells to be turned on," Prof. Avraham says. "If we can discover how these genes are controlled -- how they're turned on and off -- we may be able to modify these signals to allow regeneration to happen.

"This would allow us to transform cells in the inner ear to become functional hair cells or create new ones to allow for proper hearing. We hope that our epigenetic maps of the inner ear will provide entry points into the development of therapeutics for hearing loss."

The role of epigenetics

Epigenetics does not change the genetic code, but how the code is read. Methylation is the direct addition of a chemical group (methyl, CH3) onto the C nucleotides in the DNA molecule and is considered one of the most basic epigenetic mechanisms. DNA methylation serves as the on/off switch for the genome.

Prof. Howard Cedar of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, a world authority on methylation who was not involved in the research, says, "While our genes provide the instructions for how to make the building blocks of the hearing system, understanding how these components are controlled to provide proper hearing requires additional epigenetic information. The research directed by Prof. Avraham and her colleagues provides, for the first time, insights into how this works and reveals important clues on how we may be able to prevent or correct a wide variety of hearing ailments."

In the course of their research, the scientists discovered that inner ear cells follow a similar methylation pattern as the brain and neurons, suggesting they have a similar plasticity. This plasticity may allow for the introduction of regulatory elements to induce regeneration. The scientists validated their findings using state-of-the-art CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology. They found a critical regulatory element for a deafness gene, connexin 30.

"The development of this work was constrained by our limited knowledge of epigenetic mechanisms involved in the inner ear," Prof. Avraham concludes. "Epigenetic modification of gene expression, possibly by reversing abnormal DNA methylation, may offer a way of awakening the very genes that block regeneration from occurring."The area around Burlington Park and Memorial Hall was decorated in festive colors including a pyramid shaped tree of lights and lighted Santa workshop building. Santa waved to the crowd from the fire truck cherry picker and then proceeded to the lawn in front of Memorial Hall for the annual tree lighting and start of the event.I want to thank God for this opportunity. Only God could make this happen, said Kyle, who made a political comeback after serving on the board six years ago. He thanked those who voted for him and said he would still work with those who did not.The Securities and Exchange Commission today charged Mark Suleymanov of Glen Cove, New York with engaging in an online binary options scheme that defrauded retail investors out of approximately $4 million.

The SEC's complaint alleges that from at least 2012 to 2016, Suleymanov engaged in the unregistered offer and sale of binary options, which are securities that pay out depending on the outcome of a "yes/no" proposition, such as whether a specific equity security will close at or above a specified price on a given trading day. Suleymanov promoted and sold the options on the SpotFN website and other related websites he controlled, and misrepresented the profitability of investing in the binary options, as well as investors' ability to access their funds. Suleymanov allegedly used software to manipulate investors' trading results to increase investor losses, and prevented many investors from withdrawing their funds. As alleged in the complaint, the SpotFN website also falsely stated that an investor's funds would be held in a separate account and used only for trading options, not for SpotFN's business expenses. In fact, Suleymanov commingled investor funds in his bank accounts and misused certain of the funds for business and personal expenses.

The SEC's complaint charges Suleymanov with violating the antifraud provisions of Section 17(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 thereunder, as well as the registration provisions of Section 5 of the Securities Act. The complaint seeks a permanent injunction, disgorgement plus prejudgment interest, and a penalty. Suleymanov has agreed to a bifurcated settlement where he will be permanently enjoined from these provisions. The settlement, which is subject to Court approval, reserves the issues of disgorgement, prejudgment interest and a civil penalty for further determination by the court upon motion of the SEC.

The SEC's investigation was conducted by Natalie Shioji and supervised by Lisa Deitch, Cheryl Crumpton, and Antonia Chion. The SEC appreciates the assistance of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Missouri Secretary of State's Office.

To learn more about binary options fraud, see the binary options fraud webpage on Investor.gov.Gurnee officials, too, have been quiet on the second factory in their community, Vantage Specialty Chemicals, which uses ethylene oxide to sterilize medical products, as does Medline. One Gurnee resident said the village sent an email link to a federal information Web site about ethylene oxide and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guidelines. Lake County health officials have done the same, while urging new pollution controls be installed to monitor emissions at the two facilities.A longtime Bay Area journalist and radio host was found dead in Paducah, Ky., three weeks after he had been reported missing, officials said Monday.

The Paducah Police Department confirmed Taliaferros death Monday morning in a Facebook post. Two teenagers found his body Sunday afternoon, police wrote. An investigation into Taliaferros disappearance and death is ongoing.

The family of Raphael Ray Taliaferro posted an update to a GoFundMe page Sunday night announcing his death. His body was found in a wooded area about a mile from the pizza shop where he was last seen in Paducah, the family wrote.

The family is in the process of working with the police to learn the matters surrounding his death, the statement said. At this time, we are processing this turn of events and ask for privacy as we work through our loss.

Taliaferros wife had reported the 79-year-old missing around 9:30 a.m. Nov. 10, in Massac County, Ill. Around six hours later, witnesses told officials they saw him in Paducah, Ky., roughly 20 miles away and just over the state border.

According to a missing person flyer posted by the Massac County Sheriffs Office, Taliaferro was last seen speaking with the manager at the Mellow Mushroom restaurant in Paducah. The poster also said the 79-year-old may have been experiencing disorientation and signs of dementia.

Calls to the Paducah Police Department and Massac County Sheriffs Office about Taliaferros disappearance and death were not immediately returned.

Taliaferro worked as a journalist and news anchor for San Franciscos KGO-AM radio and KRON-TV. In 1994, the San Francisco Black Chamber of Commerce honored him with the Black Chamber Life Award, according to the National Association of Black Journalists.

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The 1994 award recognized Taliaferro as a forerunner in broadcasting.

The association inducted him into its hall of fame in January 2011. The association created the Ray Taliaferro NABJ Entrepreneurial Spirit Award in his honor to recognize journalistic entrepreneurship among members of the association.

Ashley McBride is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: ashley.mcbride@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ashleynmcbThe welding program at John F. Kennedy High School in Richmond has been unable to offer any classes this year because the teaching job is vacant.

You read that right. Theres a school in the home city of Rosie the Riveter national historic park that cant find someone to teach students how to join metal with heat.

And right now, welding is one of the hottest jobs in the country. One representative for a local iron workers union told me theres a shortage of welders in the Bay Area and nationwide.

Kennedy High School has the tools to set up students for long careers. The metal shop, which underwent equipment and facility upgrades last year, is ready to be used by students interested in a career that has job security and doesnt require a college degree.

The school district has advertised the position since June, but hasnt been able to fill it.

The problem might be money. The starting salary for teachers in the West Contra Costa Unified School District is $54,000, according to human resources. Welders can make more than that on the job.

Obviously, they could make more money welding than being a teacher, said Kenneth Whittemore, an assistant superintendent and head of human resources for the school district. Were looking for that right person that can come in and do it.

Paul Chinn / The Chronicle

Before Thanksgiving, Mike Peritz, a retired teacher who taught for 35 years at the school, wrote an impassioned email pleading with community members to help find a teacher. He wrote the email because he felt the school district wasnt working hard enough to find a welding teacher. Whittemore said the district was blessed to have advocates like Peritz.

Students who elected welding for schools opening in August had to be given other classes, Peritz wrote in the email. Soon their schedules must be ready for second semester. Are we going to tell them that the career pathway they have chosen is no longer available?

The email was shared hundreds of times on social media sites such as Facebook, and its apparently because of the email Peritz wrote that there are several people now interested in the job. On Thursday, Peritz, who began working at the school when it opened in 1967, gave a tour of the metal lab to people curious about the job. He invited me to tag along.

Peritz, a former English teacher, ran the schools restaurant and catering program for several years. That program, like other vocational offerings at the school, has been discontinued. He doesnt want welding to be next.

As we walked through a courtyard with stone lunch tables and benches, Peritz talked about Cleve Harris, the welding programs former teacher. Harris, a welder who retired from Chevron, taught students for more than a decade until he died from cancer.

He wasnt a professional teacher, but he was the best welder around and he had the biggest heart, Peritz said of Harris. And he took on huge challenges to work with kids in his welding program.

Just about everything is brand new in the metal shop. New lighting and ventilation ducts were installed, along with fume hoods. There are four new welding computer simulators for students to practice on before stepping into the lab. In the lab, there are new welding grinders and drill presses. There are unopened boxes of steel-toe boots donated by Sims Metal Management in a storage closest.

The shop renovation, which cost $500,000, was funded through a partnership with Chevron and the school district, according to Andrew Brooks, an assistant principal. Brooks said there were three sections of students scheduled for the class in August, about 75 students total. Many of the students are girls.

Here we have this incredible potential waiting, he said.

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When I called Mitchell Kettle, the apprenticeship coordinator for the Oakland chapter of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental, and Reinforcing Iron Workers, to get his thoughts on the schools search, he told me he saw Peritzs email. After apprenticing, Kettle said, welders can ask for higher salaries. For example, he said welders with a seismic welding certification can earn between $90,000 and $110,000 a year.

Right now, its so hard to get somebody to teach a welding class because everybody is so busy making money they dont want to give it up, he said.

Welders are in demand at the Port of Richmond and Chevrons refinery. Kennedy students could eventually fill the open positions  if they had a teacher to mold their sparked interest in welding.

Mark Metz, who teaches welding and furniture building at The Crucible, the Oakland industrial arts school, was one of the prospective teachers who took a tour of the metal shop. He first saw Peritzs email shared on Nextdoor, the social media app. Metz was impressed with what he saw in the metal lab.

This is state-of-the-art for a high school student, Metz said. For a high school lab, this is nice.

Itd be nicer if students were actually using the lab.

San Francisco Chronicle columnist Otis R. Taylor Jr. appears Mondays and Thursdays. Email: otaylor@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @otisrtaylorjrHave you experienced being the target of intolerance? What causes you to be intolerant?

Sitting in his book-filled Berkeley living room, Lewis Brown Griggs chewed over those questions and others with six other people via the Zoom conferencing app last month on, appropriately enough, the International Day for Tolerance.

A Mormon mother of five said others sometimes assume she supports polygamy and hates gay people. Three people of color said they were all too used to being judged by their race.

Ranging in age from early 20s to early 70s, and hailing from Colorado, Virginia, Utah, Maryland and California, the group was brought together by Mismatch.org, a site that aims to mismatch people who are politically and geographically diverse for group chats with others of varying viewpoints. Its like a non-romantic dating service for civil discourse.

Our nation has so many problems with division, said John Gable, Mismatch co-founder, who is also CEO and founder of AllSides, a website that tries to provide balanced news by showing three different perspectives on current stories. We need to learn how to talk to people who are different than we are, how to listen to them and understand them as people.

Jessica Christian / The Chronicle

In an increasingly polarized country, Mismatch aims to help people across the political spectrum find common ground via structured conversations on topics like immigration, tax reform and climate change. Mismatch grew out of Living Room Conversations, another trans-partisan project that brings together folks of varying views to engage in discourse. But while Living Room Conversations hosts in-person groups  hence its name  Mismatch casts a wider net by seeking people nationwide to meet up via videoconferencing.

I live in Berkeley, and gathering a bunch of conservatives here isnt an easy thing to do, said Joan Blades, co-founder of both Mismatch and Living Room Conversations, and before that of the progressive powerhouse MoveOn.org. Mismatch is a great way to get more diversity in the room. (The downside of videoconferencing: no snacks.)

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Mismatch groups still tend to skew blue, organizers admit. Griggs, for instance, is a registered Republican, but he works as a diversity trainer and describes himself as a never Trumper who leans left on social issues. He relishes encountering different perspectives.

Look at the gift of meeting people youve never met, the gift of feeling seen, he said after the hour-plus conversation on tolerance ended.

Participants are self-selecting, so by their nature they are folks who are open-minded.

Those that love Trump are less likely to show up, Blades said.

Defining people as either left or right is too simplistic, she said.

This is about having more shades of gray. If you go into a conversation with true curiosity, then your world becomes a little bit bigger.

Jessica Christian / The Chronicle

Anat Shenker-Osorio, a communications consultant and expert in applied cognitive linguistics who is not affiliated with Mismatch, said her research showed that curiosity is a trait of people who evolved their political viewpoints, such as conservative white women who became progressive, and apolitical women of color who became activists.

Encouraging and rewarding open-mindedness generally influences people toward greater respect for things like equality, freedom and shared prosperity, she wrote in an email. I do see a value in people holding conversations with others who do not share their viewpoint.

However, she said, shes skeptical if the both sides approach means giving credence to viewpoints such as racism.

Tacitly comparing, say, a white supremacist and a Black Lives Matter advocate is beyond a false equivalency  its an insult, she wrote. The former stands for subjugation of others and the latter fights for recognition and respect.

Gable said Mismatch doesnt aim to have people persuade each other that their views are valid.

It is about understanding each other as humans, he said. We may or may not find common ground, but we always find common humanity.

Mismatch asks participants to abide by some simple rules.

What we learned in kindergarten, take turns, be respectful, own your part of the conversation, as Blades described it.

Each conversation centers on an issue such as criminal justice reform, with questions provided by Mismatch and Living Room Conversations to help focus the discourse.

Its super simple, which is why its so reproducible and doesnt require a facilitator, Blades said.

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Participants start by introducing themselves  who they are, where they come from and what drew them to the topic  and then dive into increasingly deeper questions. They finish by sharing one thing they got out of the discussion.

Mismatch, which has raised about $750,000 in donations so far, started two years ago focusing on students, but now is expanding to all ages, something its website will soon reflect. More than 10,000 people have participated in Living Room Conversations, and some 1,000 have tried the Mismatch video component, Gable said. Organizers hope to reach 1 million participants by the end of 2019, in part through partnerships with groups like AllSides and ProCon.org, faith communities and advocacy organizations.

The internet is becoming so one-sided that when it comes to political and controversial issues, we have less access to different points of view today than 20 or 30 years ago, Gable said.

Can something as simple as structured conversations among disparate people really make a difference? Blades and Gable both think so.

Overall, our biggest goal is to improve democracy democratic society and governance, Gable said.

Blades, who helped turn MoveOn into a behemoth that mobilizes millions of people, has similar hopes for Mismatch and Living Room Conversations.

I think this movement is getting ready to take off, she said. I learned from MoveOn how to do things at scale. Mismatch is one way to scale Living Room Conversations.

The alternative, as she sees it, is grim.

If we determine that not talking to each other is the best way to keep the peace, that has some really dangerous implications, Blades said.

Carolyn Said is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: csaid@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @csaidStriking hotel workers approved a contract agreement with Marriott on Monday to end San Franciscos largest hotel strike in decades.

The strike, which began Oct. 4, spanned seven San Francisco hotels operated by Marriott. Almost 2,500 workers marched outside the hotels, demanding higher pay, lighter workloads and preservation of existing health benefits.

Workers overwhelmingly approved the contract with 99.6 percent in favor. They plan to return to work Wednesday, said Anand Singh, president of Unite Here Local 2, which represents hotel workers.

Details of the settlement werent immediately available. We think it meets all of our goals and expectations, Singh said. This immediately sets the standard for hotel workers in this city.

Contracts with other San Francisco hotel operators have also expired, and Unite Here Local 2 expects to negotiate new contracts soon with higher benefits after resolving the Marriott dispute.

Seven other locations also had Marriott strikes and reached labor agreements in the past few weeks: Oakland, San Jose, San Diego, Detroit, Boston, Maui and Oahu. Workers in Hawaii won a $6-per-hour wage increase over four years, Travel Weekly reported.

The San Francisco strike encompassed some of the citys largest hotels, including the Courtyard Marriott Downtown, the Marriott Marquis, the Marriott Union Square, the Palace Hotel, the St. Regis, the W and the Westin St. Francis.

We can confirm we have a tentative agreement. We look forward to welcoming our associates back to work, said a Marriott spokesman.

Marriott said in a Nov. 6 earnings call that the strikes arent expected to affect the companys financial performance. The company is the worlds largest hotel operator, with 6,700 hotels managed. The eight-city strike affected only 23 hotels. Marriotts gross fee revenue rose 13 percent year-over-year in the third quarter to $932 million, beating analyst expectations.

Analysts agreed that the scale of Marriotts operations means the strikes and new contracts with higher wages wont hurt the company.

It didnt have a material impact on results, said David Beckel, a senior analyst at Bernstein. He said a security breach of guest data that affected up to 500 million people  more than 6 percent of the worlds population  could do more damage to the companys brand.

Marriott will continue to be a strong choice for hotel owners because of its scale, said Dan Wasiolek, a Morningstar senior analyst.

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

Theyre stumbling a little bit here with the strike and data breach, said Wasiolek. But a bigger risk is a slowdown in the economy and corporate travel, he said.

Marriott expects revenue per available room to rise 1 to 3 percent in 2019, compared with a 4.6 percent increase in 2017.

In San Francisco, the strike had a larger local impact.

Events organized by the Communications Network, Shanti Project, Chicana Latina Foundation, Bay Area Wilderness Training and others moved out of Marriott hotels in solidarity with the workers, at the cost of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Marriott bused in temporary workers from hours away to keep hotels running. Some temporary workers alleged they werent paid on time and were fired in retaliation for speaking to union leaders. Complaints have been filed with federal and state regulators.

Roland Li is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: roland.li@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rolandlisfButte County classrooms welcomed back 28,000 students affected by the Camp Fire on Monday, more than three weeks after the deadliest inferno in California history ripped through the towns of Paradise and Magalia.

The Camp Fire destroyed 13,792 homes in Butte County, damaging or destroying 14 schools. School officials said that re-opening the schools marks a return to normalcy for thousands of children in the system.

We could not have done what weve done the last three weeks without the people surrounding us, said Michelle John, superintendent of the Paradise Unified School District, at a Monday morning press conference.

Paradise charter school students were also back in class Monday, attending courses at interim facilities in Chico, while another 2,200 elementary school students from nine Paradise Unified School District campuses are now attending class at Oroville schools.

State officials said that they would continue to coordinate mental health support and seek federal funding for emergency aid for displaced students.

I am pleased our employees have stepped up to help, but all of us realize that our extra efforts pale in comparison to the tragedy, devastation, and hardships Butte County residents have suffered and will continue to suffer, state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson said in prepared remarks. We are inspired and motivated by your resolve and strong will to recover.

The sheriffs office lifted evacuation orders Sunday afternoon for parts of Magalia and downgraded mandatory evacuation orders to warnings for parts of Concow. The county public health department will provide re-entry kits, including hazmat suits and N-95 masks, to residents and business owners returning to the area.

The Camp Fires death toll remained at 88 as of Monday. On Saturday evening, the Sheriffs Office announced that 42 of the remains have been positively identified and 41 have been tentatively identified.

Fire Tracker Follow wildfires across the state Latest updates on wildfires burning across Northern and Southern California

As of Saturday, 24 residents of Paradise, Chico and Durham were still unaccounted for, according to the Sheriffs Office.

Gwendolyn Wu is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: gwendolyn.wu@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @gwendolynawuThe independent monitor overseeing reforms in the Oakland Police Department said he found additional evidence that some officers pointed guns at suspects or used force in other ways without reporting their actions as required.

Court-appointed monitor Robert Warshaw said that in a sampling of cases he reviewed, all uses of force by police officers were warranted and in line with department policy. It was the lack of reporting their actions that violated the rules, he wrote in a court filing last week.

Warshaws findings call into question Oaklands celebrated drop in police use of force. According to the department, incidents fell 75 percent from 2012 to 2017. Warshaws probe into the numbers is ongoing.

Skeptical of the unexplained reduction, Warshaw several months ago embarked on a review of arrest reports that has included watching body-camera footage to see whether interactions happened as police officers said they did.

Warshaw, a former police chief of Rochester, N.Y., and deputy drug czar under President Bill Clinton, said he watched videos from 38 cases, chosen because they were likely to have involved tangles with suspects, even though no force was reportedly used.

In 14 cases  more than a third  officers did, in fact, get physical with people they were trying to arrest, Warshaw said. Videos showed six officers pointing their guns at suspects, which is considered a use of force that should be reported under department policy. In six cases, officers also failed to activate their cameras during the actual arrest, according to the review.

The Oakland Police Department is committed to fair and constitutional policing and will continue to work with the federal court and the monitoring team to implement sustainable reforms, police spokeswoman Felicia Aisthorpe said in an email.

Its not the first time in recent weeks that Warshaw has found inconsistencies and omissions.

His first audit, in September, turned up six out of 29 cases in which officers purportedly pointed firearms or got physical with suspects but did not report their actions. The next one, last month, found 11 unreported incidents in 40 cases.

The monitor called his latest findings troubling. The accompanying arrest reports said no force was used or witnessed, which Warshaw called inaccurate, boilerplate language and a serious misrepresentation.

It is not clear whether these deficiencies result from supervisory direction or a lack thereof, a misinterpretation of OPD policy, or other reasons, he wrote. However, OPD must definitively determine this to assure confidence in the accuracy of its force data.

The departments inspector general opened its own review, but Warshaw had problems with that, too. He said the internal watchdog attributed part of the drop in force reporting to a lack of clarity on whats considered intentionally pointing a firearm at someone.

Warshaw disagreed. He said the policy appears clear on this issue. Pointing a gun above a 45-degree angle, he noted, is a reportable use of force, according to department rules.

Our review suggests the need for a more broadly based inquiry and consideration of corrective measures to include policy revisions, training, and intervention where appropriate, Warshaw said in the report.

The probe has added another complication to the citys 15-year-old reform program that stemmed from the Riders scandal, in which a group of officers in West Oakland were accused of beating residents and planting evidence. A civil settlement in the case laid out dozens of tasks that had to be completed before the Police Department could emerge from federal court oversight.

Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Police morale bottoms out in Richmond

Its no secret that the Richmond Police Department has had its share of scandals over the years, but a scathing new report details the departments toxic work environment and suggests a lack of leadership is partly to blame.

Ninety-seven percent of the sergeants and officers surveyed reported low morale and blamed an apathetic administration. Sixty-three percent said that their talents were barely leveraged or not leveraged at all.

Former City Manager Bill Lindsay commissioned the 15-page report, which was completed in September by Boston consultants MBD Innovations. The findings were concluded through interviews with city officials and top ranking members of the police force. An anonymous online survey was also conducted with 67 sergeants and officers.

Chief Allwyn Brown said in an email to The Chronicle that the low morale is due in part to short staffing and high demand, overtime obligations and lack of salary increases, which we have little discretion and or control over.

The report, however, said the department lacks a compelling articulated vision, resulting in an operational disconnect between senior members and first-line staff. The department was also criticized for not having anyone above the rank of sergeant on duty after 7 p.m. during peak hours of police activity.

When it comes to dealing with crime and issues presented by the community, the report called the department reactive and lacking a cogent and comprehensive strategy to deal with crime. The report also blasted the departments inability to reach out to communities mistrustful of police.

The criticisms on the departments strategic vision is something we are studying internally, Brown said.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

How the department improves could be complicated by the relationship between the chief and office of the city manager, which was was found to be sub-optimal. The report pointed to mishandled disciplinary cases that have mired the department in the past, most notably the sexual misconduct scandal involving Richmond police officers and a young sex worker who went by the name Celeste Guap.

In the spring, a veteran Richmond police captain, Mark Gagan, was reinstated after he successfully appealed his firing. He had been accused of leaking a police report to a television news reporter, but maintained his innocence, and Lindsay said there was insufficient evidence.

City Manager Carlos Martinez, who was selected to take over that role in August, called the new report accurate in an email to The Chronicle. He said he has met with Brown to discuss the issues raised and will continue to meet with the chief regularly.

Brown told The Chronicle that only the city manager can enforce serious punishments, including termination from the force.

The report also found that the department leadership has an acrimonious relationship with the Richmond officers union.

Roundup: The biggest crime news from last week

A Los Altos planning commissioner was arrested for suspicion of driving drunk after he allegedly fell asleep behind the wheel of his Tesla as the cars autopilot guided it along Highway 101.

San Franciscos Hall of Justice was evacuated after a woman set off an incendiary device, police said.

The defendant in a closely watched murder case in San Francisco took the stand and testified that he fatally stabbed another man in self-defense.

An ATF vehicle was burglarized outside of an Oakland courthouse, and the stolen items might include firearms.

A pharmacist was charged with second-degree robbery after holding up a CVS pharmacy in Danville at gunpoint to steal pills, authorities said.

Kimberly Veklerov and Sarah Ravani are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: kveklerov@sfchronicle.com, sravani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Kveklerov @SarRavaniWashington Post-contracted journalist Jamal Khashoggi was not a U.S. citizen. He held a green card in the U.S., as he was self-exiled from Saudi Arabia, due to his criticism of the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He was afraid for his life, so he would travel between Virginia, London and Istanbul. He went against his Saudi kingdom numerous times and knew the implications of his behavior in a country that doesn't put up with going against its regime. The U.S. should not get involved in the Saudi government and the death of Khashoggi. The president and administration worked hard for improved relations with the Saudis that benefit the U.S. with lower fuel costs and other things.If San Francisco required less parking, then wed see both lowered housing prices and more efficient use of urban land. Requiring developers to build parking spaces in new projects has the effect of bringing too many new cars into the city, congesting streets, taking up space needed for more housing and harming the environment.

Developers currently are required to provide a minimum amount of parking in new buildings. The minimums vary across the city but average one space per housing unit. What if we eliminated those requirements? San Francisco Supervisor Jane Kim is working to remove the minimum parking requirements for new housing or commercial developments.

We think this is a great idea.

Why? Because each parking space adds substantial costs to any building project and can even make the project unfeasible. Tenants often bear the burden of those costs. Requiring one space per unit in a multifamily building, for example, adds thousands of dollars to the cost of each unit of housing. And it takes away space that could be used for what the city desperately needs  more housing.

When we talk about the ability to get around without a car, we are getting near the heart of what makes San Francisco different from most other American cities. San Francisco is compact rather than spread out, human scaled rather than highway scaled. Even after these many decades of increasing car orientation, we are still a city where people can live without cars  especially now, when we have access to a broad variety of transit options ranging from scooters to bike shares, buses to BART.

Kim introduced legislation to do just that at the Nov. 5 meeting of the the Board of Supervisors Land Use and Transportation Committee. Her proposal follows the San Francisco Planning Commissions unanimous recommendation to do away with citywide parking requirements. A broad coalition of housing, transportation and environmental advocates (including SPUR) testified in support of this policy along with representatives of the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, the county transportation authority, and the city Planning Department. The full Board of Supervisors is expected to vote on the legislation Tuesday.

SPUR has been an active supporter of this shift, going as far back to at least 2006 when we published Reducing Housing Costs by Rethinking Parking Requirements. Then as now, we believe that minimum parking requirements are both a waste of money and space. They are antithetical to livable cities.

By removing these mandatory parking requirements, San Francisco can build more housing while reinforcing its unique urban strengths. In doing so, it will grow more pedestrian-friendly, more transit-rich, more environmentally sustainable and more affordable.

In his book, Parking and the City, transportation scholar Donald Shoup writes, The area of parking per car in the United States is thus larger than the area of housing per human. If Kims legislation is passed, we can make the choice to house humans, not cars.

Adhi Nagraj is the San Francisco director and Kristy Wang is the community planning director for SPUR.WASHINGTON  Oakland Rep. Barbara Lee will be in House Democratic leadership after all.

After Lee was narrowly defeated for the partys No. 5 post, Democratic leader Rep. Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco created a new leadership position for her fellow Bay Area lawmaker.

Pelosi recommended Lee to be co-chair of the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee, expanding that panels leadership to three co-chairs. Pelosi attributed the need for another co-chair to the historic size, energy and diversity of the Democrats incoming House majority.

If approved by the committees members, as expected, Lee will join Reps. Eric Swalwell, D-Dublin, and Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., as co-chairs. Lee was previously a vice chair of the group.

The panel oversees committee assignments and policy priorities for the majority, and the several dozen members are named through a mix of leadership, elections and appointments.

The elevation for Lee comes after New York Rep. Hakeem Jeffries defeated her for Democratic chair last week by just by 10 votes.

The results left raw feelings among Lee and her supporters. Lee would have been the first African American woman elected to the House hierarchy of either party, and she attributed her loss to institutional barriers as a woman of color.

Lee, 72, is a progressive legend, cemented in part by her lone vote against the authorization for military engagement in 2001 that paved the way to wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. But the 48-year-old Jeffries was seen by many members as a potential future party leader worth elevating. After his victory, Lee gave a unity speech to the Democratic caucus.

Lees whip count before the race had shown her with a solid lead. Her supporters lamented the secret-ballot process that resulted in 12 lawmakers apparently pledging to support Lee but voting for Jeffries.

San Mateo Rep. Jackie Speier said afterward that members should have the courage to make their votes public and ditch the secret ballot.

Its about time that we have to say what we mean and mean what we say, Speier said.

Tal Kopan is The San Francisco Chronicles Washington correspondent. Email: tal.kopan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @talkopanManuel Sulzer/Getty Images

A fire at a Nob Hill apartment building Sunday afternoon displaced nine people and left a cat dead, San Francisco fire officials said.

Firefighters responded to the fire at the four-story structure at 1427 Larkin St. just after 4:15 p.m. and had it contained about 20 minutes later.The former treasurer of the San Francisco Orchid Society embezzled more than $100,000 in funds that the organization planned to use for hosting annual events and shows, prosecutors said Monday.

Jack Ryder, 46, allegedly withdrew cash from the societys accounts for his personal use while serving as treasurer from 2015 to 2017. In an arraignment hearing Monday he pleaded not guilty to two counts of embezzlement following an investigation conducted by the San Francisco Police Departments Financial Crimes Bureau.Owen Diaz had seen swastikas in the bathrooms at Teslas electric-car plant, and he had tried to ignore racist taunts around the factory in Fremont.

You hear, Hey, boy, come here, n, you know, all this, said Diaz, who is African American. Then, a few hours into his shift running the elevators, he noticed a drawing on a bale of cardboard. It had an oversize mouth, big eyes and a bone stuck in the patch of hair scribbled over a long face, with Booo written underneath.

On that winter night in the factory, when, he said, a supervisor admitted drawing the figure as a joke, Diaz had had enough. He typed a complaint to a Tesla manager on his phone. Racist effigy & drawing was the subject.

When you really just look at it, you ask yourself at some point, Where is my line? said Diaz, 50, who worked at the factory as a contractor for 11 months before he quit in May 2016.

It is a line that others say they reached, too.

Interviews, internal communications and sworn legal statements filed by more than two dozen current or former Tesla employees and contractors describe a wide range of concerns among some African American workers at the factory, including threats by co-workers, demeaning assignments and barriers to advancement. Three lawsuits by former workers accusing Tesla of failing to curb racial discrimination and harassment have been filed since early last year, including one by Diaz awaiting trial.

Tesla rejects the workplace portrait painted in the complaints as inaccurate, saying there is no evidence to support a pattern of discrimination and harassment. It is not the only automaker to face allegations of racism in recent years, and it acknowledges that in a company the size of a small city, there will at times be claims of bad behavior, real or false. But it said there was no indication that the factory had an unusual rate of complaints.

We strive to provide a respectful work environment for all employees and do our best to prevent bad conduct, the company said. African American employees at various levels of authority, made available by Tesla, said their own experiences had been positive.

Crystal Spates, a production manager overseeing 500 people building the Model 3, said racial slurs were not tolerated at the factory. I have never heard, myself, anyone use that terminology, said Spates, 30, who is African American and joined Tesla two years ago.

Diaz, like Tesla itself, likened the plant to a small city  one in which experiences can vary, he said. You know, you can have something that happens in one part of the city that doesnt happen in another part, he said. But when his son encountered racial slurs and caricatures in a different part of the factory, Diaz concluded that the issue was not an isolated one.

One suit accusing Tesla of racial discrimination and harassment, filed last November in Superior Court, seeks class-action status. The lawyers involved  Lawrence Organ and Bryan Schwartz, whose practices focus on workplace rights  say they have identified dozens of potential plaintiffs. Each lawyer has won multimillion-dollar judgments in other harassment or discrimination cases against major employers. Tesla is seeking to move the case into arbitration, which would require workers to bring individual lawsuits rather than a joint claim.

The states Department of Fair Employment and Housing says it has issued 10 right to sue letters  a precondition for a discrimination lawsuit  to employees complaining of racial bias at the Fremont plant. Dozens of other complaints against Tesla are pending, but the agency would not say how many involved race.

In an email to employees last year, which the company later released in response to one of the lawsuits, Elon Musk, Teslas chief executive, warned against being a huge jerk to members of a historically less represented group. At the same time, he wrote, if someone is a jerk to you, but sincerely apologizes, it is important to be thick-skinned and accept that apology.

But by many accounts, the issues at the Tesla factory go beyond the need for a thick skin.

When employees and contractors are counted together, there are more than 15,000 workers at the Fremont factory, but it is not clear how many are African American. The company says more than two-thirds of the production leads  those directing work in different areas of the factory  are nonwhite. But it would not specify the share of jobs held by African Americans, who have long been underrepresented in Silicon Valley workplaces.

In any case, some African American workers who expected to help build a future for the company and themselves, like Teshawna Stewart, say the reality proved to be a slap in the face.

Before starting at Tesla last year, Stewart, 25, sorted and packed orders at a nearby Amazon warehouse.

The job she landed installing taillights at the Tesla factory paid several dollars an hour more. But she discovered a downside when she was assigned to the brick, the production area for Model 3 sedans.

During several weeks when the Model 3 production line was not yet operating, Stewart said, she was frequently assigned to menial tasks, while workers of other races did work like sorting components.

In a sworn statement for a lawsuit, she said that when she had complained about African American employees being required to get down on our hands and knees and scrub the floor, a human resources representative told her that she was making up stories.

Tesla said Stewart did not raise these types of claims during her employment. Spates, the production manager, said assembly workers were expected to handle other tasks if production was interrupted, but nothing in terms of get on your hands and knees. She does not recall working with Stewart.

In May, Stewart was fired for job abandonment, she said, after her team was assigned to a job in San Francisco for the day to help prepare cars for shipment to China. Tesla said she had been fired because she failed to return to the factory and had been given written warnings about her attendance. She said she had returned with the other workers, who were not African American, and was the only one fired.

DeWitt Lambert, an African American electrician, was not quite 40 when he left home in Mobile, Ala., in 2012 and drove to California in search of a job. Tesla hired him in June 2015 as a production associate, mostly installing seat belts.

Soon, he said, he encountered co-workers mocking his Southern drawl. He started to wear headphones to drown them out, but when the occasional taunts turned to frequent racial slurs, he said, they were hard to ignore.

The company granted his request to change stations, but his tormentors started lingering near his new spot, he told officials, and he worried that they are going to do something to me.

Between June 2016 and February 2017, Lambert sent at least a dozen text messages, emails, photos and videos to human resources, copies show.

The evidence sent by Lambert included a 58-second cell phone video, punctuated by repeated racial slurs, in which an unidentified narrator walking the factory floor says its DeWitts phone and threatens to cut you up ... so everybody can have a piece of you, n. He said it had been recorded by co-workers who took his phone and meant it as a threat.

Feeling that he had a potential civil rights claim, he consulted a lawyer about legal options, and filed a complaint with the state fair-employment agency.

Teslas general counsel, Todd Maron, wrote in March 2017 with an offer to settle.

We are willing to pay Mr. Lambert $100,000, but only if we are to resolve this matter before there is media attention, Maron wrote in an email provided by Lamberts lawyer.

Attached was a four-page document outlining information the company had collected to undermine Lamberts claims. Our CEO, Elon Musk, has reviewed this case personally and notwithstanding everything thats in the attached document, he is sorry that this case did not get escalated much sooner and he agrees that change is needed, the email stated.

Lambert, who declined the settlement offer in favor of a chance to take the claim to trial and argue for higher damages, was put on paid administrative leave.

In June, after Tesla succeeded in moving the case to arbitration, Lambert received a letter terminating his employment, saying the company had discovered acts inconsistent with Teslas values. Tesla said Lambert himself had been involved in instigating use of the N-word. He conceded that he had used the epithet at times, but only with other African Americans.

After Tesla moved to bring the case to a close, an arbitrator issued a preliminary ruling saying it merited fuller consideration.

I feel like everything was taken away from me, said Lambert, who is living at his mothers house back in Alabama. I got everything snatched from up under me since I complained about it.

DeWayne Jones, 52, was a commercial truck driver in 2012 when he learned that Tesla was hiring. He was familiar with the factory, having worked there from 1992 to 1995, when it was the production site of a joint venture by General Motors and Toyota called Nummi.

Within about 90 days after starting at Tesla as a contract production associate, he became a full-time employee and saw his pay steadily climb from $17 to $21 an hour.

Jones (no relation to Nigel Jones) said he had then started to notice that black workers werent being promoted. In one case, he said, a manufacturing official told him that people like you didnt move up to lead positions. He also reported that he had heard a supervisor say of black employees that theres too many of them in there, they are not Tesla material, and that he had been at a meeting where a supervisor, gesturing toward African American workers, remarked that monkeys work outside.

Tesla said there was no record of a formal complaint from Jones about racial insults.

The company also denied that there was any inequity in its career development practices. You do a great job, you make your way here, said the companys head of diversity and inclusion, Felicia Mayo, who is African American. After a year at the company, she was recently made a vice president.

Clarence Johnson, who came to Tesla 4 years ago as a forklift driver and now tests equipment on a safety team  his second promotion  said his experience reflected opportunity.

While he said he could not speak for others, he added, Im an African American male, and I didnt have any of those roadblocks.

Like Spates, he said supervisors would not tolerate racial slurs  though he said the use of a racial epithet where its two people referring to one another as friends was common.

For Jones, the route was not up but out. He said his children and a psychologist he had started seeing persuaded him to go back to truck driving.

Everybody has a breaking point, he said. Im able to breathe now.

If Nummi represented the auto industrys past, Owen Diaz was sure that Tesla was the future.

But that was before the racist effigy on the cardboard bale, and the slurs and offensive graffiti that came earlier. He said he had ultimately found the environment so degrading that he struggled to get out of bed for work.

As for the graffiti, Tesla said Diaz brought a single drawing to the attention of his supervisor and that it was promptly and thoroughly investigated. It said a contractor involved had been given a warning and suspended without pay.

Despite what he said he had experienced, Diaz was eager to give his youngest son, Demetric, a chance at the companys pay and stock options. So he recruited him as a fellow contractor in 2015, working in a different production area.

The first weeks were fine for Demetric, now 23. But he started to notice incidents that disturbed him.

I started telling him like, Hey, well, I seen this, Dad, Demetric said. When I was in the bathroom, he said, he saw vulgar graffiti that included a racial slur.

The younger Diaz complained to his staffing firm and then to a Tesla supervisor about racial abuse, protesting that the supervisor was calling me an N-word every day, according to a lawsuit. The suit says that within days, he was given a written warning of misconduct and was shortly out of a job. Tesla said he had been let go after repeated warnings about failing to wear protective clothing.

His father hung on for a few more months. Then he quit.

Lauren Hepler is a New York Times writer.Im calling on behalf of the Waukegan City Council, with the pastors going down attacking them there in Waukegan. The pastors need to be saving souls, not getting involved with people who are doing wrong, fighting for them, especially if they dont live in Waukegan. They need to be saving the churches. If theyve got troubles on the outside, how do they think their men must feel? The pastors need to stay in their lane and watch what they say to other people if theyre going to preach in the pulpit about how they treat people. You dont treat people on the outside, and then come in the pulpit on Sunday and expect your members to continue to love you. The pastors have got to save souls. Weve got plenty of people out here in the street that need help and saving. Go in the court system. Its a shame what the did. I dont live in Illinois, but Im just saying its a shame what they did. Fighting for someone when they dont know whats going on and calling other people liars. Those two pastors need to watch their mouths when they get in the pulpit on Sundays.After the financial crisis 10 years ago, unhappy customers were expected to flee the megabanks for smaller competitors.

It did not happen. And the big banks became even more entrenched.

Now another wave of alternative banks are at it again, and they say they have learned from the mistakes of the upstart banks that tried  and failed  before them.

San Franciscos Chime, the biggest new name to pop up, has opened 2 million fee-free online checking accounts and is adding more customers each month than Wells Fargo or Citibank.

That has inspired a crop of newer startups, like Empower, which started its first fee-free online checking accounts, with lots of digital bells and whistles, in October.

Venture capitalists are pouring money into American startups that are offering basic banking services  known as neo-banks or challenger banks. In 2018 so far, American neo-banks have gotten four times as much funding as they did last year and 10 times as much funding as they did in 2015, according to data from CB Insights.

Big players from outside the consumer banking industry, like Square and Goldman Sachs, are also moving in.

In consumer banking, you have what is one of the largest industries in the United States, in terms of profits, and at the same time one of the least disrupted industries and the most unpopular with consumers, said Andrei Cherny, the founder of Aspiration, a neo-bank that has attracted nearly a million customers. Those three things create a perfect storm for disruption.

The persistent unpopularity of big banks has been a boon to the newcomers. And they are helped by a new attitude among financial regulators who have grown more comfortable with online banking and young customers who have no hesitation about cashing a check or sending money on a phone.

That does not mean that building a profitable business will be easy, as the first neo-banks, like Simple and Moven, discovered. Establishment banks have big budgets to fend off challengers. And the services that many neo-banks are starting with, like checking and savings, are not very profitable. Chime and its ilk all want to eventually move into lending and other businesses.

There is, however, a growing conviction that banking is set to change. Consulting firm CG42 said in a recent report that it expected the 10 largest banks would lose $159 billion in deposits to smaller competitors over the next year.

Everyone is looking at cards and bank accounts as the next battleground, said Lindsay Davis, an analyst covering financial technology companies for CB Insights.

The new financial outfits are trying to replace the old, branch-based way of banking with a mobile-phone-friendly account that does away with the fees that have made banking giants so unpopular.

Andrea Johnson, a dispatcher for a utility company in Michigan, switched to Chime after her old bank, PNC, charged her an overdraft fee as a result of another fee from the bank that had emptied her account.

That blew my mind: one fee leading to another fee, Johnson, 35, said. They are going to find a way to nickel-and-dime you to death.

Since she switched to Chime, Johnson said, she has not missed PNCs physical branches and has appreciated some of the startups perks, like getting money from her paycheck two days early.

Chime, which has 100 employees in downtown San Francisco, makes money by collecting a fee from Visa every time its customers use Chimes debit card to make a payment. The company has received $105 million in investments from venture capital firms.

If you look ahead five years, theres no way there will be a financial services industry that is charging consumers $30 billion a year in overdraft fees, said Chris Britt, the chief executive of Chime. We aim to shake that up and I think a lot of other consumer companies will be doing the same thing.

The deposits going to startups like Chime and Aspiration are still a drop in the bucket compared with the trillions of dollars in accounts at places like JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo. New companies in the United States are also lagging those in places like China and Britain, where a much greater proportion of consumers have already fled to upstarts.

But fast-growing online banks in Britain like Monzo and Revolut are providing a template for American startups. Both companies have said they want to move into the United States.

Banking regulators recently signaled that they will give the first banking charter to a neo-bank  Varo, a San Francisco startup that is offering fee-free checking accounts without any minimum balances. Another national bank regulator, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, has said it plans to begin offering special fintech charters to new companies that want to handle money.

These charters will allow startups like Varo to operate without relying on an established bank to hold their money, which adds significant costs.

Most of the new companies have kept their money and run transactions through partner banks, generally smaller regional banks that dont have the money or the expertise to build out their own digital services.

Traditional banks are recognizing the threat. Wells Fargo is testing an app-based banking product, Greenhouse, that does away with overdraft fees and service fees.

JPMorgan Chase already offers a similar app, Finn, aimed at younger customers and announced last month that it was building a fintech campus in Silicon Valley.

The banks are struggling to adapt because they have built an expensive infrastructure of local branches and have become increasingly reliant on revenue from fees. Surveys have shown that a wide array of fees, for everything from ATM use to checking account maintenance, have been steadily rising in recent years.

The big banks have also held on to the interest payments they get rather than passing them along to depositors. That has created an opening for online companies. Empower is paying its customers 2 percent for deposits, compared with the 0.01 percent that Wells Fargo is offering.

One of the most unexpected new competitors has been Goldman Sachs. Goldman took its first step with an online lending product called Marcus. It has combined that with an online savings account that is offering customers 2.05 percent for deposits and executives have signaled that they plan to expand to a full-service online bank.

Several other established companies are also moving in. Acorn, which attracted 4 million customers to its investing app, is about to start offering its customers a debit card to spend their money. And SoFi, originally an online lender, has added a bank account offering this year. Even Amazon is rumored to be working on a checking account for younger customers.

Square, which began processing payments for merchants, has created what amounts to a bank account with its Square Cash app and associated debit card. It started allowing customers to deposit their paychecks into the account this year.

We are reaching an audience that is underserved and even to the point of unbanked, which wasnt a stated goal, but its something we love and want to lean into more, Square CEO Jack Dorsey said at a conference in May.

Nathaniel Popper is a New York Times writer.Butte County classrooms welcomed back 28,000 students affected by the Camp Fire on Monday, more than three weeks after the deadliest inferno in California history ripped through the towns of Paradise and Magalia.

The Camp Fire destroyed 13,792 homes in Butte County, damaging or destroying 14 schools. School officials said that re-opening the schools marks a return to normalcy for thousands of children in the system.

We could not have done what weve done the last three weeks without the people surrounding us, said Michelle John, superintendent of the Paradise Unified School District, at a Monday morning press conference.

Paradise charter school students were also back in class Monday, attending courses at interim facilities in Chico, while another 2,200 elementary school students from nine Paradise Unified School District campuses are now attending class at Oroville schools.

State officials said that they would continue to coordinate mental health support and seek federal funding for emergency aid for displaced students.

I am pleased our employees have stepped up to help, but all of us realize that our extra efforts pale in comparison to the tragedy, devastation, and hardships Butte County residents have suffered and will continue to suffer, state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson said in prepared remarks. We are inspired and motivated by your resolve and strong will to recover.

The sheriffs office lifted evacuation orders Sunday afternoon for parts of Magalia and downgraded mandatory evacuation orders to warnings for parts of Concow. The county public health department will provide re-entry kits, including hazmat suits and N-95 masks, to residents and business owners returning to the area.

The Camp Fires death toll remained at 88 as of Monday. On Saturday evening, the Sheriffs Office announced that 42 of the remains have been positively identified and 41 have been tentatively identified.

As of Saturday, 24 residents of Paradise, Chico and Durham were still unaccounted for, according to the Sheriffs Office.

Gwendolyn Wu is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: gwendolyn.wu@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @gwendolynawuA 28-year-old woman in police custody somehow got past officers and walked out of San Francisco General Hospital on Sunday night, officials said.

The woman, identified as Cresencio Mandujano, was being treated at the hospital on her way to being booked into jail on a warrant out of Los Angeles County, police said. She walked out of the hospital around 11 p.m. and remains at large. Police said they do not consider her a threat.Before photographer David Dang moved from Portland to San Francisco, he was already infatuated with the city.

San Franciscos rich culture and diversity drew him in, so when he finally moved he wanted to soak up as much food, music and nightlife as he could. The city captivated Dang and he thought the best way to capture that energy was through photography.

Dang initially started to photograph the city during the daytime but grew weary when he realized he was just taking the same kind of image any tourist could. He wanted to do something different, and decided to do his work at night when most of the town was fast asleep.

His latest photo series is called Nightscape, which captures moody scenes from some of the most iconic landmarks in SF including Lombard Street, the Ferry Building and Coit Tower, to name a few.

All of these images have been taken between the times of 10 p.m. through 4 a.m., Dang told SFGATE. I would often find myself making stops to capture these photographs before meeting with friends or late at night while on the way home.

An image of the Bay Bridge from the series was recently posted on Reddit and it generated a conversation of more than 1.3 thousand comments. Its a picture that shows the old span of the Bay Bridge, after the tunnel, with San Francisco skyscrapers and waterfront as its backdrop.

Shades of blue dominate the image. The only other color is that of red lights emitted from vehicle tail lights on the bridge and of businesses that illuminate the waterfront.

Dang said that whats typically seen during the day looks and feels completely different when viewed at night. Thats partly due to artificial lights that help showcase the life essence to the scenes that might go unnoticed under daylight, Dang said.

The overall tones and imagery found in this series evokes the feeling of the slumbering, yet raging city under the guise of the night.

Click on the slideshow above to see Dang's iconic images of SF at night.

--

Follow Susana Guerrero on Twitter and email her at sguerrero@sfchronicle.com

Start receiving breaking news emails on wildfires, civil emergencies, riots, national breaking news, Amber Alerts, weather emergencies, and other critical events with the SFGATE breaking news email. Click here to make sure you get the news.BIRMINGHAM, Ala.  A forensic examination shows a black man was shot three times in the back side of his body when an Alabama police officer mistook him for the shooter after gunfire erupted at a crowded shopping mall, the mans family said Monday.

The results of a report commissioned by the family are devastating to relatives of Emantic EJ Bradford Jr., their lawyer, Benjamin Crump, said at a news conference.

Emantic Bradford Sr. angrily jabbed his finger at the TV cameras as he addressed the unnamed officer, saying: Youre a coward!

The officer in the Birmingham suburb of Hoover should be charged with homicide, Bradford said, because this is murder.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson also attended the news conference at the Rock, a small church EJ Bradford attended in north Birmingham. Jackson said authorities refusal to release video evidence smacks of a cover-up.

Police in Hoover reiterated Monday that they wont release officer video or other evidence about the Thanksgiving night killing until the state investigation is complete. They released a letter from state investigators expressing concern that the investigation could be jeopardized or hindered if information is released.

A statement from the city, a Birmingham suburb of 85,000 people, didnt directly address the findings of the familys forensic exam but said the Bradfords should share it with authorities. Crump said they already had.

Crump said the forensic pathologist hired by the family determined Bradford was struck by one gunshot that entered the rear of his skull; another that hit the back of his neck; and a third that penetrated his lower back.

The report didnt indicate the order of the shots, and the pathologists report did not indicate whether more than one person shot Bradford.

But Crump said any of the three shots could have killed the 21-year-old.

There were three kill shots, Jackson said.

Police initially described Bradford as the person who opened fire at the mall as Black Friday shopping began on Thanksgiving night, and authorities called the officer a hero for his swift response.

Officials then backtracked, saying Bradford wasnt the initial shooter. They said Bradford had a handgun visible after the initial gunfire, and the city and police said that action increased the threat level for responding officers.

Protests have occurred almost daily since the shooting.

Regarding the original shooting at the mall, an Alabama man was arrested last week in Georgia on charges of shooting a teenager who was wounded at the mall. A girl also was shot and wounded, but authorities havent filed charges in her case.

Jay Reeves is an Associated Press writer.WASHINGTON  Mitt Romney is a man in-between.

He made it to Washington after all  but not as president of the United States, the office he sought twice and other men won. Hes not yet a senator from Utah, either, until hes sworn in Jan. 3. Romney, lifelong executive in public and private life, doesnt have a permanent office, a place to live or a solid sense of what it will be like to shift from being the top leader to just one of 100 ambitious personalities.

For now, Romney, 71, is adjusting to the rarefied Senate, where hes shuttling between his temporary basement office and meetings, little-noticed in the brimming corridors of power where seniority and tradition rule. Behind him is real-world fame as the former standard-bearer of the Republican Party, now commanded by President Trump and his in-your-face style. Ahead of Romney is life as a junior senator in a role Senate leaders are just beginning to sketch out.

Its been a learning experience, Romney said last week as he hurried from a meeting with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. Hopefully, I have the capacity to take on different roles.

Romney is from neither Massachusetts, where he was governor, nor Utah, where he lives and which he will represent in the new, 116th Congress. Hes from Michigan, where his father, George W. Romney, was governor in the 1960s. But Romney earned his status as Utahs adopted son when in 1999 he took over the Salt Lake City Olympics and helped steer it through a bribery scandal to successful games three years later.

After being governor, the presidency was Romneys goal. But in 2008, he lost the Republican nomination to Sen. John McCain, who then lost the big prize to Democrat Barack Obama. Four years later, it was Romney and then-Rep. Paul Ryan challenging Obama and Vice President Joe Biden. Romney went down in defeat, derided by some in the GOP as too moderate and disconnected from the economic struggles of most Americans. Then Trump won the nations highest office over Democrat Hillary Clinton.

All along, Romneys relationship with Trump has veered between bitter rivalry and potential  but unrealized  alliance. Thats raised hopes on Capitol Hill that Romney might serve as a truth-teller to a president who routinely replaces fact with fiction. Some are hoping that the mild-mannered Romney bucks his party on policy when he chooses.

I think with John McCain passing, for example, Mitt believes that theres a role for him in our party in being ... a standard-bearer in our party, Ryan told the Washington Post. Ryan and others said theyre looking for Romney to seek a seat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to help build back relationships that Trumps America first policy may have eroded.

Those close to Romney point out that unlike most freshmen, Romney comes to Congress with years-long relationships with many members, including with McConnell. And as a presidential candidate, he helped raise huge sums of money for congressional colleagues.

Laurie Kellman and Steve Peoples are Associated Press writers.An off-duty Texas sheriff's deputy was arrested Monday on a domestic violence charge, according to the sheriff's office.

The Bexar County deputy, Michael DeWitt, was arrested by San Antonio police at about 6:10 a.m. after he allegedly assaulted the victim by choking or strangulating them. He was booked into the Bexar County Jail on a $3,500 bond.SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  Wildfires in California in 2018 released the rough equivalent of about 68 million tons of heat-trapping carbon dioxide  about the same amount of carbon emissions as are produced in a year to provide electricity to the state, U.S. Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said Friday.

The carbon dioxide figure  based on data analyzed by the U.S. Geological Survey  is more than 15 percent of all emissions produced by California in a year, according to Zinke.

"We know that wildfires can be deadly and cost billions of dollars, but this analysis from the U.S. Geological Survey also shows just how bad catastrophic fires are for the environment and for the public's health," Zinke said in a statement.

This year included California's deadliest and most destructive wildfire  a blaze in November that took out nearly 14,000 homes in a rural Northern California county and killed at least 88 people. Another fire that started the same day in Southern California killed three people and destroyed 1,500 structures, including the homes of celebrities in tony Malibu.

Those two fires produced emissions equivalent to roughly 5.5 million tons of carbon dioxide, Zinke said.

The 2018 emissions figure for California wildfires is "strikingly high, significant in the context of overall statewide emissions, and likely a record value for single-year direct carbon emissions from wildfires in California history," said Daniel Swain, a climate scientist at the University of California, Los Angeles.

"It is an alarming number, but we live in a fire-prone state," said Dick Cameron, director of science for land programs at the California chapter of the Nature Conservancy.

Zinke used the carbon figure he released Friday to continue to push for the thinning of forests. Cameron said that would help but that climate and home construction were also significant factors in the destructiveness of the fires.

Cameron cautioned that wildfire emissions were still a relatively small component of climate changing greenhouse gases. In California, cars and other transportation account for more than 40 percent of total emissions.District officials took the issue to voters with two separate referendum questions, which were voted down in 2016 and 2017. In the wake of the two failed referendum attempts, action taken by the district involved some very hard, emotional decisions, Radisavljevic said. They included reductions in staff and a move to grade centers, with Leigh School now serving those in early childhood through fourth grade and Giles School serving those in fifth through eighth grades. Previously, both school served students through eighth grade.You may discuss the evidence with your fellow jurors during the trial, but only in the jury room, and only when all of you are present. Even though you are permitted to have these discussions you must not make a decision about the outcome of this case until final deliberations begin. Until you reach a verdict, do not communicate about this case or your deliberations with anyone else, according to court records.FREMONT (BCN)



Police in Fremont are investigating a suspicious object/device spotted in the parking lot of a Costco store tonight, and have enlisted the help of the Alameda County Sheriff's Office bomb squad.



The device was reported shortly before 8 p.m. in the parking lot of the Costco store at 43600 Pacific Commons Blvd.



"Upon arrival, officers confirmed the object to be suspicious in nature," Fremont police said on social media. The parking lot and store were cordoned off, and the Alameda County Bomb Squad, as of 10 p.m., was responding to the scene.



The incident is isolated to the Costco property, police said. The store was closed, and no other evacuations have been ordered.



Police said updates are likely to be made after the bomb squad assesses the situation.





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.SAN FRANCISCO (BCN)



A man who served as treasurer for a San Francisco nonprofit has been charged with embezzlement for allegedly taking more than $100,000 from the organization, prosecutors announced today.



Jack Ryder was arraigned this morning on multiple counts of felony embezzlement.



According to the district attorney's office, Ryder served as treasurer for the San Francisco Orchid Society from 2015 to 2017 after being elected to the position in 2014.



Witnesses alleged that Ryder took the money from the organization's bank accounts in the form of cash withdrawals for his own personal use, prosecutors said.



"Organizations like the San Francisco Orchid Society depend on charitable donations from the community," District Attorney George Gascon said in a statement. "When their leaders steal from them, they betray the public's trust and compromise the valuable services these organizations provide for the community."



The San Francisco Orchid Society is known for putting on the annual Pacific Orchid Exposition in Golden Gate Park, the largest orchid festival in the U.S., now in its 66th year.



The investigation into the alleged embezzlement was conducted by the San Francisco Police Department's Financial Crimes Bureau.



Ryder's attorney Erica Franklin did not want to comment.





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The U.S. Department of Justice has asked a federal appeals court in San Francisco to suspend a lower court order that blocked President Donald Trump's partial ban on asylum seekers at the Mexican border.



The government on Saturday asked the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for an emergency stay of a temporary restraining order issued by U.S. District Judge Jon Tigar on Nov. 19.



Trump's partial ban, issued in a proclamation on Nov. 9, would have allowed asylum applications only from people who enter the U.S. at official entry points.



Tigar said in his temporary restraining order that the restriction violates Congress's "clear command" in a law that allows applications from asylum seekers who enter the country at any point.



The Department of Justice argued in its appeal that a stay of Tigar's order "is urgently needed to stem a crisis resulting from the mass illegal migration at the southern border by aliens lacking meritorious asylum claims."



The challenge to the restriction was filed by four refugee assistance groups led by the Berkeley-based East Bay Sanctuary Covenant. They are represented by the American Civil Liberties Union.



A three-judge panel of the appeals court ordered the groups to respond by 5 p.m. today. The Department of Justice can file a reply by 5 p.m. Tuesday and the court will issue a ruling sometime after that.



The government's appeal for a stay on Saturday followed a refusal by Tigar on Friday to stay his temporary restraining order.





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Police are investigating a shooting early this morning in San Francisco's Mission District that killed one person and left another with critical injuries.



Around 1 a.m., officers responded to a report of a shooting near the corner of 16th and Valencia streets, police said.



Two people suffering from gunshot wounds were taken to the hospital, a male victim and a 55-year-old woman.



The male victim died while the woman suffered critical injuries, according to police. The male victim's name has not been released.



No arrests have been made and a description of the suspect or suspects was not immediately available.





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.Marine Mammal Center personnel and East Bay Regional Parks Police Officers late Saturday afternoon helped rescue a young sea lion stranded on the beach at McLaughlin Eastshore State Park along San Francisco Bay west of Emeryville, according to a parks police social media post.



The young sea lion was taken to the Marine Mammal Center's facility west of Sausalito.



Specific information about why the sea lion was stranded or about why the animal was taken to the Marine Mammal Center was not available Sunday night.





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This week, some very familiar names will appear on a list of eight inductees into the California Hall of Fame: Robert Redford, Joan Baez, Ed Lee and Belva Davis.



There's one among them that's not a household name, but she's no doubt had an impact on households everywhere.



Arlene Blum, a Berkeley scientist and accomplished mountaineer, will be honored for her efforts to reduce harmful chemicals in products ranging from children's pajamas to furniture.



The 73-year-old biophysical chemist and founder of Berkeley-based Green Science Policy Institute will join seven other inductees at a ceremony Tuesday evening in Sacramento.



"I'm incredibly honored to be inducted along with some of my greatest heroes," said Blum, a resident of Berkeley since 1967. "As a scientist, I'm amazed to be among them."



A mountaineer who has tackled some of the most difficult summits on the planet, Blum jokes that she "alternates between mountains and molecules."



In 1978, she led a women's expedition that became the first American ascent of Annapurna I, a Himalayan peak that's one of the world's most challenging and dangerous climbs. She also co-led the first women's team to climb Denali; and completed the Great Himalayan Traverse across the mountain regions of Bhutan, Nepal, and India.



And there was that time she hiked the length of the European Alps with her baby daughter on her back.



But back to those harmful chemicals. Between high-altitude treks, Blum has spent decades educating lawmakers and manufacturers on dangerous substances added to everyday products.



Blum began investigations into harmful chemicals in the 1970s with research into flame retardants found in children's pajamas, leading to a ban on the cancer-causing chemical tris.



Years later, however, she discovered the chemical was right back in furniture and baby products. She then founded the Green Science Policy Institute in 2008, to bring together scientists, regulators, businesses and public interest groups to reduce harmful chemicals in products.



The organization has helped to stop 10 unneeded flammability standards and prevented hundreds of millions of pounds of toxic flame retardants from being added to consumer products, according to its website.



Blum is currently focused on educating the public, manufacturers and decision makers on chemicals of concern grouped into six classes.



Many substances that may be harmful to health are found in everyday products, such as phthalates found in some PVC plastic products, paints, personal care products, and air fresheners.



Understanding the chemicals, how they are used and how to avoid them can prevent a cycle of "regrettable substitution" that Blum has often seen. That's when a harmful chemical that's banned due to research is replaced with a closely related chemical that also can cause harm.



Many companies like IKEA have already made a commitment to reducing harmful chemicals in their products. Education is the key, she said.



"We reach out to architects, designers, big companies that want to have healthy workplaces for their employees," Blum said.



For consumers and decision makers alike, six short videos on the institute's website sum up information and possible dangers of the classes of chemicals, at http://www.sixclasses.org.



The inductees in the 12th class of the California Hall of Fame were announced last week by Gov. Jerry Brown and First Lady Anne Brown, in partnership with the California Museum.



They are: Blum, Baez, Davis, Redford, chef Thomas Keller, public servant Nancy McFadden, former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Fernando Valenzuela, and San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee, who passed away suddenly last year.



Members of the public are invited to watch the 12th Annual California Hall of Fame induction ceremony live webcast at 7 p.m. Tuesday, at http://www.californiamuseum.org/webcast/12-hof.





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Workers at Marriott hotels in San Francisco who have been on strike for two months have reached a tentative agreement with the hotel company, the workers' union announced today.



Nearly 2,500 workers at several hotels with the Unite Here Local 2 union went on strike in early October to demand higher pay, more job security and smaller workloads.



The tentative agreement will be voted on today and the announcement of the results will be announced at 6 p.m. Pending approval of the agreement, the workers will then return to work on Wednesday, according to the union.



The details of the agreement, which would run through 2022, will be made available after the vote, union officials said.



"This hard-fought contract sets a new and transformative standard for San Francisco's hotel industry," Unite Here Local 2 president Anand Singh said in a news release. "During more than two months on strike, hotel workers' resolve never wavered, and neither did the support and solidarity of our community."



Singh said contract negotiations will soon begin for more than 5,500 workers at other hotel companies in San Francisco who have been without a contract since mid-August.



San Francisco Mayor London Breed issued a statement about the agreement this morning.



"In this time of rising inequality, it is crucial that our workers are able to earn a fair wage that allows them to live and support their families in the increasingly expensive Bay Area," Breed said. "I am proud to have supported the workers as they fought for better wages, health care and job security."



Officials at Marriott did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the agreement.





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A Solano County Superior Court jury has convicted a staff psychologist at a medical facility at Travis Air Force Base of sexual assaulting three of his patients, according to the Solano County District Attorney's Office.



Heath Jacob Sommer, 42, was convicted of seven sexual assault charges after a six-week jury trial that ended Friday. His sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 25.



Sommer was a staff psychologist at David Grant USAF Medical Center. He gained the trust of victims during treatment and subsequently induced the victims to engage in sex acts with him under the guise of "exposure therapy," prosecutors said.



Two of the victims sought therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder for previous sexual trauma they had experienced and one victim sought treatment for a violent sexual assault in Afghanistan, according to the district attorney's office.



The sexual assaults occurred between 2014 and 2016. Each of the victim testified at the trial. Some of the counts included battery, rape and oral copulation by fraud.





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Police and fire officials in San Francisco are investigating three small fires that occurred early this morning at Moscone Park in the city's Marina District.



According to Fire Department spokesman Lt. Jonathan Baxter, the blazes were reported between 1 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. at the park, located at the corner of Chestnut and Laguna streets.



Two of the fires occurred in garbage cans, but the third burned a shed at the park, badly damaging it, Baxter said.



The shed is used by employees of the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department, which manages the park.



No injuries were reported, according to Baxter.





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.Finally, and it's about time, Trump's crude and vulgar remarks are starting to pile up so high that not even he can defend them. On his Russia involvement, his insulting remarks about the Bush family, his reasons for having surrounded himself with people he now calls "liars," about none of this does he have anything to say. He just walks away from whoever asks for an explanation. Not that Trump at last shutting up is a bad thing.President Donald Trump's former personal attorney, Michael Cohen, who spilled the beans on his ex-boss to the feds in a bid to avoid jail time, has finally succeeded in renting out his luxurious New York City condofor a whopping $18,500 a month. That will certainly help with the legal bills.

Cohen unloaded the four-bed, 4.5-bath condo in a brand-new, 64-floor tower in the ultratrendyand ultrapriceylower Manhattan neighborhood of Tribeca on Nov. 27. The identity of the renter is currently unknown.This penthouse is one of the most famous party pads in town, and it's available for a buyer who doesn't mind rolling the dice.

Phil Maloof's Founders Penthouse at The Palms in Las Vegas encompasses the entire 59th floor of the famous tower. It recently popped back on the market for $15 million. While the price eliminates bluffers without a serious bank account, it might also appeal to whales in search of a serious discount.

The luxe unit was on the market for $38 million in 2014 as a package deal including two works of art, a Lamborghini Huracan, and two tickets to select events at the nearby T-Mobile Arena for one year.

The package price was dropped to $22 million in 2016, and eventually Maloof put the rooftop condo on the rental market for up to $40,000 a night.

Founder's Penthouse on the top floor of The Palms Las Vegas, with view of the Las Vegas Strip realtor.com

The penthouse comes with a private, glass-enclosed elevator, which will whisk you up to a rooftop party paradise with 35 flat-screen TVs, a 20-person hot tub, private gym, DJ booth, full bar, outdoor theater, and commercial-grade kitchen. All those amenities can be operated remotely.

20-person hot tub realtor.com

Outdoor theater realtor.com

The party place can accommodate 500 revelers, and the rooftop deck includes a helipad.

The penthouse measures 6,230 square feet and has three bedrooms and five baths. The outdoor decks and terraces quadruple the interior spacefor a 27,000-square-foot footprint.

Expansive deck realtor.com

The place seems even larger thanks to towering 30-foot-ceilings and 360-degree views of the city.

Deck dining area realtor.com

Of course, there's an HOA fee: $4,481 a month covers utilities, concierge services, fitness center access, a couple of passes to the Palms' famous spa, as well as discounted rates on Palms restaurants, shops, and services.

Maloof reportedly purchased the penthouse for $4.5 million in 2008, when his family had controlling ownership of the hotel.

Maloof, who is now in his 60s, has held the position of executive vice president at The Maloof Companies. He also served as a state senator in New Mexico. After moving on from The Palms penthouse, he installed his extensive art, auto, and theater organ collections in a grand Las Vegas Tudor. He's dubbed his new residence Uncle Phil's Fun House.

The post Would You Ante Up $15M for the Founder's Penthouse at The Palms in Las Vegas? appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com.The Giants won the World Series three times, the Salesforce Tower punctuated the city skyline and used drug needles became a common sight on city sidewalks.

These are a few examples of the most drastic changes San Francisco has seen in the past decade as mentioned in the San Francisco Remembered Facebook page. (In the gallery above, you'll find more.)

The group with more than 72,000 members recently dove into a lively discussion about what specifically has transformed the city in the last decade, and homelessness, the influx of tech, the gentrification of neighborhoods and high housing prices were among the most commonly noted.

"More poop on the sidewalks," "the homeless sleeping all over the place," "tech companies have ruined the city," were all responses.

ALSO: Boomtime: What San Francisco looked like at the end of the Gold Rush

San Francisco Remembered member M. Grummer called out how the city's newcomers buy old Victorians and strip them of their original details.

"They love the old Victorian houses," Grummer wrote. "But when they get hold of one they gut the interiors with all the wonderful materials and detail and turn it into something that looks like an upscale medical office waiting room. Complete with kitchens that look more appropriate for autopsies than a home cooked dinner party with friends."

ALSO: A city in pictures: Iconic photos from San Francisco history

Many longed for a city they feel is cleaner, friendlier, more affordable, had a small-town feel and harbored an artistic community.

"The loss of the great bohemian atmosphere. The high cost of housing has driven out the artists and eccentrics," wrote K. Blackstock.

"Exactly," chimed in B. Percivalle. "All the flavor has been squeezed out of the city."

"I say the same thing," concurred E. Heise. "I tell everyone that the last wave of people moving here seem to have one thing in common. They're not bohemian. They're not artist, musician, queer activist, what have you. When that element is lost, the culture of the city is like airplane food."

Many also noted changes they see as positive such as "more vibrant neighborhoods with better restaurants" and more lively festivities with new ones, such as Outside Lands, and better attended old ones such as San Francisco Pride and Hardly Strictly Bluegrass. The legalization of pot and gay marriage were also acknowledged as positive impacts on the city.

How do you think San Francisco has changed in the past 10 years? Join the discussion in the comments.Currently Reading

Most dramatic changes San Francisco has seen in the past decade or soThe CIA has evidence that Mohammed bin Salman, the Saudi crown prince, communicated repeatedly with a key aide around the time that a team believed to have been under the aides command assassinated Jamal Khashoggi, according to former officials familiar with the intelligence.

The adviser, Saud al-Qahtani, topped the list of Saudis who were targeted by U.S. sanctions last month over their suspected involvement in Khashoggis killing.Bill Bright, director of outreach ministries for the school, said it is easy for students at St. John of the Cross to feel removed from the needy. The Western Springs school is in an idyllic suburban setting, geographically close to Chicago but a world away from the homeless people downtown in the city.KATOWICE, Poland  Negotiators from around the world began two weeks of talks on curbing climate change Sunday, three years after sealing a landmark deal in Paris that set a goal of keeping global warming well below 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit.

Envoys from almost 200 nations gathered in Polands southern city of Katowice for two weeks of negotiations.

We are here to enable the world to act together on climate change, said Polands environmental envoy, Michal Kurtyka, who is presiding over the U.N. meeting, known as COP24.

With further meetings next year meant to build on whats decided in Katowice, he urged all countries to show creativity and flexibility.

The United Nations secretary-general is counting on us, all of us to deliver, Kurtyka said. There is no Plan B.

Ministers and some heads of government plan to join the discussion Monday, when host Poland is expected to push for a declaration ensuring a just transition for fossil fuel industries that face cuts and closures amid efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The meeting received a boost over the weekend when 19 major economies at the G-20 summit affirmed their commitment to the 2015 Paris climate accord. The only holdout was the United States, which announced under President Trump that it is withdrawing from the climate pact.

It is sad that the federal administration of the United States, a country that is increasingly feeling the full force of climate impacts, continues to refuse to listen to the objective voice of science when it comes to climate change, said Christiana Figueres, a former head of the U.N. climate office.

She cited a recent expert report warning of the consequences of letting average global temperatures rise beyond 1.5 degrees C (2.7 degrees F).

The rest of the G-20 have not only understood the science, they are taking actions to both prevent the major impacts and strengthen their economies, said Figueres, who now works with Mission 2020, a group that campaigns to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Although the Trump administration still intends to withdraw from the Paris agreement as soon as its eligible to do so in 2020, it is sending a delegation to participate in COP24 to ensure a level playing field that benefits and protects U.S. interests, the State Department said in a statement.

The meeting in Katowice is regarded as a key test of countries willingness to back their lofty but distant goals with concrete measures, some of which are already drawing fierce protests. At the top of the agenda is what is known as the Paris rulebook, which will determine how governments record and report their greenhouse emissions and efforts to cut them.

Separately, negotiators will discuss ramping up countries national emissions targets after 2020, and financial support for poor nations that are struggling to adapt to climate change.

The Los Angeles Times contributed to this report.

Frank Jordans is an Associated Press writer.JERUSALEM  Israeli police recommended Sunday that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu be indicted on bribery, fraud and other charges, accusing him of trading regulatory favors for fawning news coverage, in what is potentially the most damaging of a series of corruption cases against him.

It was the third time this year that police have urged that Netanyahu face criminal prosecution, and it dealt another blow to his teetering governing coalition, which narrowly averted collapse last month, clings to a one-vote majority in Parliament and has been edging closer to calling early elections.

Netanyahu, who has dominated Israeli politics for a decade and continues to dominate all potential challengers in opinion polls, now must await the decision of the attorney general, whom he appointed, on whether to indict him in all three cases.

That may take months, and Netanyahu could well win another term as prime minister before he is formally charged  perhaps bolstering his chances of remaining in office while facing prosecution.

In a statement, Netanyahu called the recommendations unsurprising because of previously published leaks, and repeated his contention that they would come to nothing. He noted that such recommendations have no legal weight, and that other recommendations against public figures had been rejected recently.

Netanyahu is not accused of getting rich himself, but of enriching the countrys biggest telecommunications company, Bezeq, at the publics expense and for the sake of his image and that of his wife and family.

Between 2012 and 2017, police said, Netanyahu intervened in a blatant and ongoing manner, and sometimes even daily, in coverage at Walla, a news website owned by Bezeq, ensuring flattering articles and pictures were published and removing critical content about him and his family.

Police said Netanyahu and his associates sought to sway Wallas hiring of senior editors and reporters. In return, police said, Netanyahu, who personally oversaw the communications ministry from 2014 to 2017, rewarded Bezeq with lucrative concessions, including approval of its merger with Yes, a satellite television company, despite the objections of lower-level ministry officials.

Police said they had seized about $32 million from those involved during the investigation, known as Case 4000.

Tzipi Livni, the leader of the opposition in the Israeli Parliament and a former justice minister, called for immediate elections to replace Netanyahu.

David M. Halbfinger and Isabel Kershner are New York Times writers.MEXICO CITY  Mexicos newly inaugurated president hit the ground running Monday with his pledge to govern as a common man and end decades of secrecy, heavy security and luxury enjoyed by past presidents.

Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador sported slightly ruffled hair at his first news conference as president, which started at 7 a.m.

Isnt that a change, that I am here, informing you? Lopez Obrador asked reporters. While past presidents very seldom held news conferences, Lopez Obrador promised to do so on a near-daily basis, much as he did when he was mayor of Mexico City from 2000 to 2005.

Lopez Obrador took his first flight as president Sunday, boarding a commercial airliner with the rest of the passengers. He has promised to sell the presidential jet as an austerity measure.

The new president arrived at Mexico Citys National Palace in the same white Volkswagen Jetta compact car he used before taking office Saturday. Lopez Obrador refused the military bodyguards used by past presidents and travels with a small staff of aides who provide security. He usually travels economy class.

I feel safe, protected and supported by the Mexican people, Lopez Obrador said.

He also claimed that the number of murders had declined Saturday and Sunday, his first two days in office.

In the first 10 months of 2018, homicides in Mexico have run at an average of around 80 per day. But Lopez Obrador said the average over the weekend was about 50, according to initial reports. He cautioned that those totals were still preliminary. Nor did he offer any explanation about why homicides would have suddenly fallen.

Lopez Obrador, 65, took the formal oath of office Saturday and then participated in a ceremony performed by indigenous leaders who gave him a symbolic staff of power and traditional healers who blew incense smoke over him and brushed him with bundles of herbs to ritually purify him.

Following a lengthy inauguration address, he spent more than an hour and a half speaking in Mexico Citys main square, talking about government programs in granular detail: how concrete for roads would be mixed to maximize the use of local labor, and which animal and tree species would be best for agriculture and reforestation programs. He didnt even pause to take a drink of water.

The only doubt at this point is how many cabinet secretaries and assistants are going to be able to keep up with the presidents rhythm? wrote newspaper columnist Salvador Garcia Soto.

On Monday, Lopez Obrador also signed a decree creating a truth commission to investigate the 2014 disappearance of 43 students in an apparent massacre that has frustrated the families of the victims.

Maria Verza is an Associated Press writer.DUBAI, United Arab Emirates  The tiny, energy-rich Arab nation of Qatar announced on Monday it will withdraw from OPEC in January, mixing its aspirations to increase production outside of the cartels constraints with the politics of slighting the Saudi-dominated group amid the kingdoms boycott of Doha.

The surprise announcement from Qatars minister of state for energy affairs, Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, again throws into question the role of the cartel after needing non-members to push through a production cut in 2016 after prices crashed below $30 a barrel.

It also marks the first time a Mideast nation has left the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries since its founding in 1960.

In a statement, al-Kaabi said Qatar, the worlds largest exporter of liquified natural gas, planned to increase its exports from 77 million tons of gas per year to 110 million tons. He also said Qatar wants to raise its oil production.

In light of such efforts and plans, and in our pursuit to strengthen Qatars position as a reliable and trustworthy energy supplier across the globe, we had to take steps to review Qatars role and contributions on the international energy scene, al-Kaabi said.

There was no immediate comment from Vienna-based OPEC, which is to meet this month and discuss possible production cuts. In November, Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said OPEC and allied oil-producing countries will likely need to cut crude supplies, perhaps by as much as 1 million barrels of oil a day, to rebalance the market.

Qatar produces only some 600,000 barrels of crude a day, making it OPECs 11th biggest producer. The loss of production, under 2 percent of overall OPEC supply a day, wont greatly affect the cartels position in the market.

Qatars wealth has seen it take on a larger importance in international affairs. Its political stances, often supporting Islamists, have drawn the ire of its neighbors, particularly Saudi Arabia.

In June 2017, Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates cut ties to Qatar in a political dispute that continues to this day. They also launched an economic boycott.

Jon Gambrell is an Associated Press writer.JERUSALEM  President Trumps recognition of Jerusalem as Israels capital has set off an increasingly visible battle in the citys eastern sector  with an emboldened Israel seeking to cement its control over the contested area and Palestinians pushing back to maintain their limited foothold.

In recent weeks, Israel has arrested dozens of Palestinian activists for alleged illegal political activity. It demolished Palestinian shops for failing to have permits, a court has cleared the way for settlers to move to an Arab neighborhood, and the citys outgoing mayor is trying to close the east Jerusalem operations of the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees.

The Palestinian Authority in the West Bank, in turn, has boosted efforts to protect its claim on Jerusalem, attempting to block east Jerusalem Palestinians from selling properties to Jews  a major taboo that it is largely powerless to prevent.

The change in the U.S. position on Jerusalem under Trumps administration has unleashed the Israeli hands to increase and escalate its measures that aim to change the features of the city from a Palestinian city to an Israeli one, said Walid Salem, a Palestinian analyst in Jerusalem. The Palestinian Authority feels the heat and is stepping up measures to resist this Israeli policy.

The conflicting claims to east Jerusalem lie at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel captured the area, home to the citys most sensitive religious sites, in the 1967 Middle East war and annexed it, claiming the entire city as its capital. But the annexation is not internationally recognized, and the Palestinians seek east Jerusalem as the capital of a future state.

A year ago, Trump upended decades of American policy and recognized Jerusalem as Israels capital.

Several months later, he moved the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, thrilling Israel and enraging the Palestinians.

Although Trump has said his decision would not determine the citys final borders, it has been seen by both Israel and the Palestinians as taking sides.

Israels hawkish government has been energized by the backing of its American ally in its quest to keep Jerusalem what it considers to be its eternal, undivided capital.

The Palestinians have for years accused Israel of taking steps to fortify its hold on the city, primarily by encircling Arab neighborhoods in east Jerusalem with Jewish settlements. These settlements, considered by Israel to be neighborhoods of its capital, are now home to over 200,000 Israelis.

Criticism from previous U.S. administrations often has held Israel back in the past. With the reins removed, Israel has carried out a flurry of moves, often jostling with Palestinians along the way.

The Palestinians have also zeroed in on the Bedouin hamlet of Khan al-Ahmar. Israel says the West Bank encampment, just outside of Jerusalem, was illegally built and is trying to uproot the village. A planned demolition was postponed following heavy European pressure, but it could still happen at any time.

Tia Goldenberg and Mohammed Daraghmeh are Associated Press writers.Ray DeForest is using his talent for good this month.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.-- Eltingville native Ray DeForest will perform this month as a lively, vibrant character Doris Dear, inspired by the life and light his own mother left behind.

DeForest, an actor best known for his work in "The Wolf of Wall Street" and "A Limited Time Offer in the Life of J.A. Golden," shows off his musical talent at the Triad Theater on December 19, 20 and 21.

A portion of show proceeds will benefit the the New York City chapter of The Alzheimer's Association, providing research and resources for those who live with or have loved ones with Alzheimer's and dementia. Taffy, DeForest's mother, passed away from Alzheimer's in 2016.

"With this year's show being performed over three evenings, I felt it was time to give back," DeForest said. "Life had been good to me so it seems only right that I try to help someone who is maybe not as lucky as I have been in life."

Don't Edit

Not your typical 'drag show'

For the past three years, DeForest puts on the "Doris Dear Christmas Special" consisting of high-tempo musical numbers and Christmas ballets. DeForest changes into blonde wig and swipes on some bright lipstick, lashes and elaborate outfits to complete the Doris Dear look -- emulated after his mother's 50s style.

"This is a very positive show," said DeForest. "This isn't isn't a typical drag show. We keep it PG and it's just a happy show to go to."

Throughout the show, Doris Dear takes the audience through her life growing up on Staten Island, the life lessons she's learned from her parents -- Taffy and Duke -- and how she remains America's "perfect housewife" with a 50s and 60s flair.

Don't Edit

'I want people to leave with a smile on their face'

BTW: DeForest goes by he/him/his off stage, her/she/hers on. To the actor, they are two separate entities.

"When I lost both of my parents, I realized what a profound effect they had on me," DeForest said. "I realized how lucky I was to have parents that were always there for me. To deal with the loss, I did what I know best... tell stories. I used Doris Dear to do that."

The performance is meant to create a safe space for the audience using comedy and music. DeForest will be joined on stage by Lisa Yeager and girl group "Those Girls.'

"I want people to leave with a smile on their face," DeForest said. "I want them to spend the 75 minutes with me and feel warm and fuzzy ... like they've been embraced by Doris Dear and felt like they were safe and taken care of."

Don't Edit

DeForest never forgot about Staten Island

Despite DeForest's big city success, the actor credits who he is to where he's been and where he's from.

"Even after leaving the Island and venturing out to other parts of the world, Staten Island always stayed with me," DeForest said. "It was the perfect place to grow up. I remember everything from the small neighborhoods where everyone knew each other and took care of each other, to small locally owned shops where you could sit and have a soda and read a comic book. It truly was a post war mid century modern haven where everyone felt they had 'made it'."

Don't Edit

How to grab your tickets.

The Doris Dear Christmas Special takes to The Triad Theater -- located at 158 West 72nd Street -- December 19, 20 and 21 at 7 p.m.

Seating reservations for upcoming performances are required. For more information, visit TheTriadNYC.com.

Don't EditCITY HALL -- Following a snowstorm that left virtually all of New York City paralyzed for hours last month, City Hall has reportedly fired the head of the citys Office of Emergency Management Commissioner Joseph Esposito for its botched response to the Nov. 15 storm.

Esposito was reportedly fired Friday by Deputy Mayor for Operations Mayor Laura Anglin following a meeting with top Emergency Management officials to discuss the Nov. 15 snowstorm, sources familiar with the incident told the Wall Street Journal.

The Journal reported that after Fridays meeting, Anglin privately asked Esposito to resign. However, the OEM head refused, so the deputy mayor fired Esposito instead, and also ordered him to fire his second in command Calvin Drayton.

Reached by the Journal Sunday, Esposito said he was still the commissioner of the agency.

Without confirming the reported firing of Esposito, OEM spokesman Omar Bourne said Monday morning that the commissioner was in the office working today.

The mayors office declined to comment on the report.

According to the Journal, Esposito was on vacation during the storm and was monitoring it while he was away.

CITY COUNCIL STANDS BEHIND ESPOSITO, BORELLI SAYS

Island Councilman Joe Borelli (R-South Shore) who heads the City Councils Commission on Fire and Emergency Management, slammed City Halls decision to fire the OEM commissioner.

Borelli said it would make more sense that Esposito was fired for some other longstanding distaste for him rather than for the citys response to the snowstorm.

Borelli said he had recently spoken to Esposito, but declined to say what was discussed.

The South Shore councilman called Esposito one of the only exceptionally competent officials in Mayor Bill de Blasios administration, that he and many other council members still fully stood behind.

[Esposito] didnt decide when Sanitation would convert from garbage pick ups to plows, he didnt decide at 3:30 [p.m.] to put plows on the Sanitation trucks, he didnt decide when and if schools should be closed, he didnt decide when and if after school programs should be closed, Borelli said. ... Everything that went wrong that day was not decided by Joe Esposito, yet we just find it necessary to fire the guy because he has the hair too long.

On Monday, Borelli and more than a dozen other City Council members penned a letter to Mayor Bill de Blasio urging City Hall to reinstate the commissioner. They said they emphatically opposed the administrations decision to fire Esposito.

[W]e hope that this unfortunate move will be reversed, the council members wrote. For the good of the entire City, Commissioner Esposito should remain in his post.

The citys initial forecast ahead of the Nov. 15 snowstorm projected just a few inches of snow. But ahead of the evening rush hour commute, the projections jumped to six inches of snow causing widespread delays on city streets and leaving New Yorkers across the five boroughs stuck in traffic for hours.

Numerous accidents and stuck vehicles were reported across the Island, as motorists were forced to navigate slippery roads covered in slush and snow.

In the days after the storm, the mayor and Department of Sanitation Commissioner Kathryn Garcia both refused to apologize to New Yorkers for the citys delayed response to the storm.

Esposito joined OEM in 2014 after spending 45 years in the New York City Police Department where served as the chief of the department from 2000 until he retired in 2013.

OEM is responsible for the oversight of the citys efforts to plan and prepare for emergencies, educate the public about preparedness, coordinate emergency response and recovery, and disseminate emergency information.

FOLLOW SYDNEY KASHIWAGI ON TWITTER.STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The view of Manhattan from a the waterfront along Front Street is breathtaking, but the waterfront itself makes you want to hold your breath.

The 860,000 square-foot lot has garbage as far as the eye can see.

Old mattresses, beer bottles, broken televisions and food wrappers litter Front Street, the hidden road behind the Clifton train station.

Along the water behind some bushes is a pile of needles, some capped and some exposed.

Makeshift tents show signs of life along the large boulders and slabs of concrete that line the waterfront.

Derelict cars, trucks, trucks and RVs have been parked along the waterfront for months -- others, for years.

During the day, the Advance observed Staten Islanders eating in their cars during their lunch break, looking at the view of Manhattan across the water and nearby MTA workers using the strip as a parking lot.

At night, activity on Front Street is very different.

Residents have complained about drinking, drug use, prostitution, and squatters living in many of the abandoned cars and RVs.

For a man who would only identify himself as Mike, Front Street isnt a spot for a meal and a moment of silence -- its home for the 18-year-old. (Staten Island Advance/Kristin Dalton)

During one after-dark visit to the lot, the Advance met Mike, 18, who has been living in a small camper run by a generator and surrounded by metal barricades for three months.

He said there are at least three other individuals living in one of the many RVs parked in the lot.

I feel bad for the people down there but I dont feel bad enough to let them stay down there, said Rosebank resident Lenny Greggory. Its absolutely disgusting.

This is ridiculous; Im paying taxes and theyre living there for free," Greggory said.

He said hes been attending local Community Board meetings and is in touch with Neighborhood Coordination Officers (NCOs) at the 120th Precinct to find out what can be done about the eyesore and unsanitary conditions.

The unkept Front Street lot is owned by the city. Its under the jurisdiction of city Department of Small Business Services and managed by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS).

A DCAS spokesman said the agency has managed the property since 1992.

New Yorkers deserve neighborhoods that are clean and safe, and that includes city-owned properties. When the city receives quality of life complaints about any of its more than 14,000 properties, it takes prompt corrective action, the spokesman said.

While the Advance has received nearly one dozen complaints about Front Street, city records show only two complaints for derelict vehicles and illegal parking, and one sanitation complaint.

The spokesman said DCAS has not received any quality of life complaints about the property.

Should it receive a complaint, the remediation request would be forwarded to the Department of Sanitation (DSNY) for cleaning.

The city will have inspectors on site Monday morning to address problems identified at this location. New Yorkers are encouraged to report quality of life complaints by calling 311, he said.

LUNCH BREAK FOR SOME, HOME FOR OTHERS

One December afternoon almost two dozen cars were parked along the water, drivers still inside the vehicles.

This is where I come to eat lunch every day, said Joseph, an Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) worker who asked that his last name not be used. Its a great view and I get some time to myself, he said while eating fried rice out of a take-out container.

The scene was the same inside the other cars; turkey sandwiches, empanadas, and other quick bites for lunch. Drivers stayed in their respective cars eating for 30 minutes to an hour before leaving.

Most took their garbage with them. Others threw their garbage out of the driver-side window before pulling off.

HE CALLS IT HOME

For Mike, 18, Front Street isnt a spot for a meal and a moment of silence -- its home.

Mike said hes been living in a camper on Front Street since his mother moved to New Jersey about three months ago.

Im not a New Jersey person, Mike said.

The small camper is attached to a generator, while a large trailer is parked next to it. Metal barricades surround the camper and lawn chairs are set up facing the water.

He said police officers havent given him trouble.

They just asked to see the paperwork and the title, they took down my information and that was it, he said.

An NYPD spokeswoman told the Advance that all vehicles must follow city traffic rules, which prohibit keeping boat trailers and mobile homes on city streets for more than 24 hours at a time.

Mike said people have tried to break into the camper on a few occasions and there was an incident once with a neighbor who was angry about a small fire hed set, but other than that, its like a small community.

I just hang out here. I have to have food delivered [to the stores] across the street because theres no address here. It works, he said.STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- K-9 units from across the country were put to the test this past weekend when they converged on the New York City Department of Sanitations facility on Staten Island to participate in a live-find canine evaluation.

The training, according to the Department of Emergency Managements Twitter, entails K-9 units looking for victims within a pile of rubble to simulate an active search.

This past weekend, New York Task Force 1 (NY-TF1) and other Urban Search and Rescue Teams from across the country participated in a live find canine (K9) evaluation.



Dogs were put to the test as victims hid within the K9 pile at @NYCSanitations Staten Island facility. pic.twitter.com/gtbgzoUXXI  NYC Emergency Management (@nycemergencymgt) December 3, 2018

New York Task Force One, which is responsible for searching through debris following disasters, among other duties, participated in the evaluation. The New York City Emergency Managements Twitter said that other search-and-rescue teams also participated in the testing.

According to New York Task Force Ones website, canine search specialists, who accompany K-9 units, are responsible for assisting dogs during searches along with being responsible for the welfare of the K-9 unit.

The training occurred at the Fresh Kills Canine Training FacilitySTATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Decades ago, Cantor Mordecai Edry was on a search. He knew he wanted to serve a close-knit congregation in a close-knit community. In 1983, he found just what he was looking for, right here in Staten Island, a place hes called home ever since.

Where were you born?

I was born in Meknes, Morocco, in 1947.

When did you leave Morocco, where did you go and how long did you remain there?

We went to France on our way to Israel in 1956, and we left France in 1957. I attended elementary school through high school in the years 1967 to 1970 in Israel. I served in the IDF (Israel Defense Force) from 1967 until 1970.

When did you come to the United States?

I arrived in the United States in 1970. I came to the here to serve as a Hebrew day school teacher in Long Island.

What were some of your other positions?

After my second year in the U.S., I was asked to serve as a cantor at Elmont Jewish Center. That gave me to the idea to follow cantorial course studies at the Jewish Teacher Seminary in New York. After, I served almost l0 years as a full-time cantor in the Baldwin Jewish Center and Beth El in Patchogue.

Why did you decide to move on?

When I received my public accountant certification, I decided to seek a smaller congregation in order to build my accounting practice. Thus, I decided to move to Bnai Jeshurun, the oldest and most beautiful synagogue in Staten Island.

What is a cantor? How does it differ from the rabbi? You sometimes take on the position of rabbi when one is not available. How do you do that?

A cantor is a communicator between the people and G-D. A cantor is a messenger of the people. Many people can do their own tax return by themselves, but often they ask a professional broker, a CPA, to help them file a tax return for them. The cantor is somewhat like the accountant. Many years ago, most people did not know how to read and write, and so, the priests and the Levites prayed for the people and the people responded by saying Amen, which means let it be, or Hallelujah, praise the Lord. A Cantor sings and recites what has been our liturgical tradition for hundreds of years. The cantor communicates the congregations wishes to G-d. The rabbi communicates G-ds wishes to the people. For over 10 years now, the congregation has either no Rabbi, a high-holiday Rabbi or a part-time Rabbi. I filled the void that was created by our new situation. I felt it was necessary to fill the gap because the congregants expect leadership in conducting the services and to get explanations for customs and ceremonies related to Shabbat (Sabbath) holidays and Jewish cycles from birth to death.

Do you have any desire to be a rabbi?

No, I dont have the desire to be a rabbi because many times a rabbi has to make decisions and express opinions that are not mine. I came from a family of rabbis. As a matter of fact, my grandfather was the chief justice of the high court of Morocco. Many of his decisions were very controversial, but he had the backing of the king and he was respected across the board.

You have two businesses in addition to being a cantor. Tell us about them.

In addition to being a cantor, which, most of the time, is a weekend occupation, I have my own accounting business practice and I ventured into the real estate business through some of my clients. Today, I own properties in Florida and New York. I got rid of properties in South Carolina and Pennsylvania after realizing that the reward of owning real estate does not justify the headache. As my clergy position is mostly weekends, I can conduct my private practice accounting business at all other times and my real estate business is managed by my partner, therefore, I am able to take care of all my businesses pretty well.

Do you serve Staten Islanders in other ways than services at the synagogue?

Every year, for the past 34 years, I lead a special Passover Seder for the elderly and the indigents who are not able to lead and perform a family Seder according to Jewish tradition. After Perestroika (a policy in the Soviet Union of restructuring or reforming the economic and political system) and the new wave of Jewish immigrants from Russia after the fall of communism, I lead, with the help of the greater community of Staten Island, bar and bat mitzvah ceremonies for Jewish youngsters from Russia. Also, I lead Jewish wedding ceremonies for Russian Jews who were not able to get married according to Jewish tradition in the former Soviet Union.

What do you think of the anti-Semitism in this day and age? How do you think we can change the situation?

I have not encountered anti-Semitism personally, but I cannot ignore the fact that it is on the rise in the United States and in Europe, especially in France, England and the Scandinavian countries. I have family in these countries who are afraid to wear certain clothes that point to their own religion. In Europe, the Semites of Muslim origin are against Semites of Jewish origins. As the number of new immigrants from Muslim countries grows, the politicians are afraid of losing power and so they ignore acts of anti-Semitism. We have to expose these acts of anti-Semitism, or any crimes of hate, as they surface and eradicate them. We must not wait until they fully blossom into criminal acts like the kind that the Jewish community experienced in Squirrel Hill, Pennsylvania (where, on Oct. 27, 2018, a gunman opened fire in a synagogue and killed 11 Jews, and injured six others, including four police officers). 

Get to know Cantor Edry:

His family: His son, Sandy, is the owner of a Real Estate Company named Edry Group Corporation. He lives in Manhattan.

In his free time: He enjoys traveling, and seeks the history of the Jewish people and their present situation. He also enjoys theater, opera and classical music.

His performances: In 1992, he joined his friend, Cantor Avi Albrecht, on a U.S. tour commemorating the 500th year of the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492. Before that, he performed as a solo artist with major orchestras such as the Hebrew Arts Choral, the Moscow Great Synagogue Choir, Long Island Cantors Association and others.

His education: He received his bachelors in Jewish literature and accounting from Queens College. He received his cantorial certificate from the Jewish Teachers Seminary, including course studies in music and vocal from Hebrew Arts School. He received his title of minister of the Jewish faith from the Jewish Theological Seminary. He also has an MBA and earned a license as a certified public accountant.STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A former Staten Island couple and their two children were remembered Sunday at a memorial service in New Jersey, where one speaker said the family did everything together, according to NJ.com.

Keith Caneiro and his family were discovered dead on Nov. 20 after authorities responded to a fire at their luxury home in Colts Neck, N.J.

Paul Caneiro, 51, of Ocean Township, has been charged with the murder of his younger brother, sister-in-law, niece and nephew. He also has been charged with possession of a firearm and possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose.

The Caneiro brothers, and Jennifer, whose maiden name is Karidis, all have ties to Staten Island. Public records indicate they all have previous addresses in the boroughs South Shore before moving to New Jersey, and family that still lives on the Island.

The Karidis and Caneiro families are grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received from our devoted family, the faithful friends of Jennifer, Keith, Jesse and Sophia and many other kind individuals from the community and beyond, a family statement said, according to the NJ.com report.STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Lawrence Byrne, the former head of the NYPD Legal Bureau, told NY1 in an interview published Monday that he believes the Department of Justice (DOJ) has reached a conclusion in its investigation of Eric Garners death.

We know as we sit here today that the career prosecutors and FBI agents in the Civil Rights Division in Washington have concluded their factual investigation, he told the local news network.

That means they have interviewed all of the witnesses, they reviewed all of the evidence. They have reviewed the video tape that we have all seen many, many times. And they have made a recommendation to the front office.

Byrne confirmed his comments to the Advance saying he hopes the DOJ is able to bring their investigation to a close.

Its been 4 1/2 years since the tragic death of Mr. Garner, Byrne said. They (the DOJ) owe it to the families to bring this to a close.

The DOJ did not respond to a request for comment on updates in the investigation.

The comments from Byrne come four years after the DOJ launched its investigation into Garners death that occurred when police attempted to take him into custody on July 17, 2014.

Video taken by witness Ramsey Orta shows Police Officer Daniel Pantaleo take Garner to the ground by his neck while Garner repeatedly shouts I cant breathe.

The DOJ commenced its civil rights investigation after a Staten Island grand jury declined to files charges against Pantaleo in December 2014.

The NYPD announced over the summer that departmental charges would proceed against Pantaleo that could result in his termination.

Pantaleos lawyer Stuart London, said a discovery hearing will take place at 1 Police Plaza on Thursday. London said the hearing will focus on whether any new information has be found.

Hes looking forward to having this case behind him, and him being exonerated, London said.

Medical examiners ruled Garners death a homicide in 2014.STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Cloaked as court employees, telephone scammers have adopted a new scare tactic for unsuspecting victims in the New York City area.

Using whats called spoofing, suspects are phoning victims from what appears to be the number for the U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, according to a tweet Monday by the Richmond County Bar Association.

Spoofing Warning from SDNY pic.twitter.com/TfISgiCVnK  Richmond County Bar (@TheRCBA) December 3, 2018

Callers reportedly are identifying themselves as SDNY employees, and telling victims a family member had been in a car crash and arrested.

The victim is then asked to send money in order to free their child or grandchild from jail.

This is a scam; recipients should not engage with these calls or provide any personal information, says the post. The court does not call to perform financial transactions.To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account.

We offer one free story view per month. If you register for an account, you will get two additional story views. After those three total views, we ask that you support us with a subscription.

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!We both work during the week, so the weekends are our only opportunity to enjoy holiday shopping, Grutsch said. What we find in downtown Wilmette is so much more unique than what we could ever find in a department store. We would just rather purchase local merchandise, so our tax dollars go back into the village, which is just better for all of us.Nine Entertainment Co will make more than 90 employees redundant as it pursues efficiencies following its $3 billion merger with Fairfax Media.

An email from chief executive Hugh Marks to staff on Monday morning said "most of the work needed" for redundancies and "synergies" would be completed by the end of the week, except for the IT divisions.

Nine chief executive Hugh Marks. Credit:Chris Pearce

There will be 144 roles made redundant in total affecting 92 employees, with some of this count made up of duplicated jobs and vacancies that will not be filled. The combined business will have about 6000 employees.

The merger will create the nation's biggest media company bringing together Nine's existing broadcasting and digital businesses, the former Fairfax Media news assets including The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and The Australian Financial Review, streaming service Stan and majority stakes in property portal Domain and radio business Macquarie Media.As the efforts to wipe out mosquito-borne diseases have ramped up, a few different approaches to the problem have emerged. Microsoft founder Bill Gates alone has pledged more than $US1 billion for technologies that may help wipe out malaria, including controversial efforts to genetically modify mosquitoes. Verily's approach relies on a variation of a very old strategy known as sterile insect technique, in which a population is gradually killed off by interfering with the ability to reproduce. It's unclear what would happen if the world's disease-causing mosquitoes were done away with. The ecological role that mosquitoes play hasn't been thoroughly studied, though some scientists suggest we might be just fine without them. But it's clear that A. aegypti has no business in Fresno County. Native to warmer, wetter climes, no one knows where they came from when they first showed up in 2013. All that's certain is that they have spread extremely rapidly. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes sit in a petri dish. Credit:AP "After we detected it, we did a massive and extensive effort to prevent the mosquito from establishing and eliminate it," says Jodi Holeman, the scientific services director for Fresno County's Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District. "We were not successful, in any way, shape, or form." The county went from having not much of a mosquito problem at all to having one that made residents avoid their backyards and porches. Unlike most mosquitoes, A. aegypti lives and breeds in places inhabited by people, laying its eggs in, say, the few droplets of stagnant water at the bottom of a wine glass left on a balcony, then hiding under beds and in closets, biting legs and ankles. This makes it much harder to fight. Going door-to-door and begging residents to dump out standing water wasn't cutting it, so in 2016, Fresno teamed up with a scientist named Stephen Dobson and his company, MosquitoMate.

It was Dobson's lab that figured out how to infect mosquitoes with a form of Wolbachia that's different from the type of the bacteria that mosquitoes usually carry. That's what makes the eggs unviable. MosquitoMate makes two species of mosquitoes infected with Wolbachia, A. aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Fresno became one of its test sites. The initial Fresno trials were the first time male A. aegypti infected with the bacteria had ever been released in the US. The next year, Verily stepped in to help scale those efforts up, bringing more advanced technologies to the breeding and release process that would, they hoped, eventually make fighting mosquitoes massively scalable. It seems to be working. This year, Verily signed on for a second season of releases. Two Verily trucks ply four different neighbourhoods, hitting more than 3000 homes. Over six months, the company released more than 15 million mosquitoes. Results from 2017 suggested the population of biting female mosquitoes dropped by two-thirds. This year, tweaks to the program have cut the mosquito population by a whopping 95 per cent. A second project by Verily in Innisfail, Australia, that concluded in June reduced the mosquito population by 80 per cent. This bodes well for eventually bringing the technology to other parts of the world-regions ravaged not just by itchy ankles but by deadly disease. At first, Verily executives were worried about community resistance to fighting bugs with more bugs. So the company set up an outreach booth, complete with a cage full of male mosquitoes that people could stick their hands in to learn that males don't bite. (Only female mosquitoes bite, which is why this and similar projects are careful to only release males.) "We really appreciate you being here," Clifford Lopes, a resident, told the company. "I brag to people about how I can sit on my porch now and not get bit."Some of Australia's biggest companies have been slapped down by the competition watchdog for imposing unfair contract terms on smaller suppliers sparking a fresh call for reform to stop unfair business practises.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission on Monday outed waste giants Visy, Cleanaway, Suez and Brownes along with dairy powerhouses Lion, Norco, Parmalat and Fonterra for forcing unreasonable conditions on smaller companies in their supply chain.

ACCC deputy commissioner Mick Keogh.

Announcing that the contract clauses would now be removed the competition watchdog renewed its calls for laws that would see companies penalised when they crossed the line in their dealings with suppliers.

The watchdog found potentially unfair terms in the standard form contracts of Visy Recycling, Cleanaway and Suez Recycling & Recovery after an investigation into the waste management industry.It's been more than three months since the Australian Taxation Office first warned of a sophisticated phone scam targeting taxpayers and the fight against impersonators continues as the value of losses hit $830,000 last month alone.

Accounting professionals say the scammers are becoming more sophisticated with each passing month and are still scaring clients with threats of arrest over outstanding tax debts.

The tax office is continuing to warn taxpayers about ongoing scam calls still catching people out months after they first emerged. Credit:Jeffrey Chan

"I had a client call me last week about this. He'd had two calls in one day, saying he would be arrested," says the founder of Healthy Business Finances, Stacey Price.

"He did ring them back. He thought it was a scam, but then also thought if it really was the ATO he should call back. I know, though, there are others out there [getting caught out] who don't then ring to tell me."Unions claim the energy regulator's decision to slash poles and wires company Ausgrid's potential revenues will lead to hundreds of job cuts in the coming year, threatening the safety of Sydney's power grid.

Ausgrid confirmed it was examining potential cuts after the Australian Energy Regulator handed down a draft decision limiting the amount of revenue Ausgrid can recover, after the company's appeals to increase the initial revenue rates failed.

Ausgrid could consider between 400 and 500 job cuts after the energy regulator has forced heavier cuts on its revenue than Ausgrid proposed. Credit:Bloomberg

Network companies are told by the energy regulator the amount of revenue they can recover from customers, submitting new proposals for these figures every five years.

Ausgrid had pushed for a 34 per cent reduction of these fees compared to 2014, however, the AER decided on a reduction of 38 per cent in recoverable revenues.Australias housing downturn gathered pace in November, driven by an acceleration in price declines being reported in Sydney and Melbourne.

CoreLogics Home Value Index fell by 0.7 per cent in average weighted terms, leaving the national decline over the past year at 4.1 per cent. The percentage fall last month was the largest since December 2008.

The percentage fall last month was the largest since December 2008. Credit:Louie Douvis

The pace of price declines were even larger in the capital cities with median values falling 0.9 per cent from October in weighted terms, extending the drop over the past 12 months to 5.3 per cent.

The median price for capital city homes fell by 1 per cent over the month, faster than the 0.7 per cent decline in apartment values over the same period. In the past year, capital city home prices have now fallen 5.9 per cent in average weighted terms, significantly faster than the 3.7 per cent drop in unit values.The tiny, wealthy Persian Gulf state of Qatar will withdraw from OPEC in January, the country's energy minister said Monday, hinting that it wanted freedom from an oil cartel dominated by Saudi Arabia, one of its regional rivals.

The minister, Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, said Qatar would focus on its gas industry and dismissed the idea that the withdrawal was connected to politics, but not without taking a jab at Saudi Arabia and its clout in the organisation.

Qatar's decision to leave OPEC after nearly six decades of membership is a blow to the group. Credit:Bloomberg

Qatar is one of the smallest producers in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, and its modest contributions to the oil market will most likely dampen the effect of its move on prices, which have been battered in recent weeks by fears of a glut.

But the decision by Qatar, whose citizens have the highest per capita income of any country thanks to its status as the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, to leave OPEC after nearly six decades of membership is nonetheless a blow to the group and a possible sign of tensions within it.Its that time of the year when many employers around the nation turn their attention to planning the end-of-year workplace Christmas party to reward employees for their dedicated work, reflect on the past 12 months and to bring a much-appreciated dose of joy into the workplace.

Adorned by shining lights and glittering tinsel, the Christmas party has long been recognised as the centrepiece of many workplaces social calendars.

Cancelling the office Christmas party may seem tempting to nervous management - but it may do more damage than the event itself.

But for some workplaces this year, all that glitters will not be gold.

Thats because the Grinch will step in and steal the Christmas party, with some organisations fearing the annual bash might encourage behaviour that could land both the organisation and their employees in hot water.As co-founder with Edward Said of the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra of Israeli, Palestinian and other Arab musicians, Barenboim, who first visited Sydney 60 years ago, has made account more than most. In the reconnection provided by this tour, both music and his message found eager ears.

"A country," he said, to wide applause, "that does not make account with its past does not deserve to be in the community of nations."

At the end of the second concert in this peerless tour by the Staatskapelle Berlin, conductor Daniel Barenboim said he wanted to dedicate the series to Australia's original native inhabitants.

Of these last two Sydney concerts, the Monday evening performance, completing the cycle of all four Brahms Symphonies begun the previous night, was, even in a series where nothing was less than superb, the most musically illuminating.

The opening theme of the Symphony No.3 in F, Opus 90 welled and crashed with glowing sinewy energy, pulling back with coloured elegance for the flute solo in the second theme before surging again into the development section.

In the second movement, the full orchestral sound was reduced almost to nothing at the end of the first theme in a hushed moment that seemed to slip into another consciousness. At times, the Staatskapelle plays like a large chamber music ensemble, shifting leadership from player to player, with the whole bound together by close listening and intimate musical thought while Barenboim presides without obvious beat.

This quality created beautiful cogency of the first and second movement of the Fourth Symphony in E minor, Opus 98. After a robustly brilliant third movement, the passacaglia which makes up the finale stood like a great edifice unified by the orchestra's extraordinary balance and control of tone and intonation.

In Schubert's "Unfinished" Symphony in B minor, in the final concert on Tuesday, Barenboim again drew back, giving the lead to the players, while he quietly tapered phrases. The orchestra's wonderful clarity created ominous mystery in the development and elsewhere allowing the music's natural sunniness to radiate.



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.After the first of the menorahs candles were lit, people at the ceremony sang traditional songs and danced around the menorah, then enjoyed fried jelly doughnuts, which symbolize the oil of the Hanukkah miracle, Teldon said. Children also had the chance to interact with Judah the Maccabee, the historic leader of the Maccabees.Every so often, a French woman writes a book about the norms of being French that makes us deeply grateful we are not French.

You know the ones: French Women Don't Get Fat; French Children Don't Throw Food; Comme Une Francaise; Dress Like a Parisian; Why French Women Are Sexiest (bound to be out there).

Singer and former French first lady, Carla Bruni Sarkozy, sets the chic bar high. Credit:Bertrand Rindoff Petroff

The latest addition to the French Women Do Everything Better genre - called Why French Women Feel Young at Fifty - is already a bestseller over there, and if you thought you couldn't feel any more blessed not to be a Parisian of a certain age, prepare to be amazed.

Should you be looking for a bit of a fillip, a reminder that at least you're not living in fear of your next birthday, this is the book for you. Here we go - some do's and don'ts lifted from Why French Women Feel Young at Fifty that we can all ignore.I've been fortunate to make it to 38 without ever having the need to visit a gynaecologist.

So when I arrived at my first appointment with the doctor, to implement a new contraception plan, I was apprehensive. After all, until recently, I used to faint from blood tests.

Egg freezing is becoming more widely available ... but it's not for every woman. Credit:Fairfax Media

Within five minutes of meeting the friendly female doctor, who is also a fertility specialist, she clocked my age and childless status and asked, "Do you want to freeze some eggs?"

Wait, what, hello? I thought I was there to discuss contraception, and potentially be fitted with a LARC (long acting reversible contraceptive). And now I was being offered a costly, invasive procedure with the casualness a waiter would ask if you wanted any sides with your steak.Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, with one of the women behind a charity cookbook during a reception at Kensington Palace in September. Credit:AP The Meghan sunshine beamed out of Britain right to the edges of the former colonies. Anyone who consumed more than a paragraph of media content in October would have witnessed the unicorn-rainbow of love over Meghan and Harry when they visited Australia and New Zealand. You may have assumed this publicity coup would buy the new Duchess a bit longer in the honeymoon suite in her new home country. Alas, not so. Once back, the anti-Meghan backlash was swift enough to cause whiplash. In the last few days, as the weird wave of nastiness directed at Meghan has gathered momentum, the Duchess has been dubbed both "the new Yoko" and "the new Wallis Simpson".

Loading She is around five months pregnant with a new royal family member. She has ditched her hugely-followed social media and blog, her career, her individual voice, her homeland and all other remnants of her past life. She has had to witness her family of origin intruded upon, judged and roasted. All the while she has thrown herself wholeheartedly into the job of being Mrs Captain Wales. And still she is being portrayed as the demon interloper whose strong will apparently threatens to break up the band. One, ostensibly up-market magazine, has provided a helpful "exhaustive timeline of Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle's feud rumours". Meghan's supposed "crimes" are difficult to decipher: something about wearing the wrong hat, something about crossing her legs incorrectly, something about asking to wear the wrong tiara at her wedding, something about Kate allegedly crying after a flower girl dress fitting.

Loading Then there was something about a member of her staff leaving and something about Meghan allegedly "speaking sharply" with a staff member. Or something. She is, shock, allegedly behind a move to depart Kensington, where "the Cambridges" live, for her and Harry's own place 32km away as she gets ready to have a baby. She is "demanding", we're told  which, like "sharp", translates to "determined" and "has her own opinions" and isn't a doormat. Sadly for all concerned, Harry's mother was treated like a doormat while still inside the family, which may go some way to explaining why he is said to be firmly in his wife's corner. (Though this, of course, is being interpreted as Meghan having a negative influence over Harry.) According to the industrialised rumours, via "news" being "leaked" from alleged insiders, the "usually pretty unflappable" Catherine and protocol-outsider Meghan are in the midst of a spat. I can't be the only one who smells a rat.

What is playing out for Meghan, who is exactly the same person as she was when the Queen's grandson fell in love with her, is a pre-emptive, and populist pulling-into-line. Now the "breath of fresh air for Britain" angle has diminished, and Meghan will imminently join the ranks of sedate, royal mothers; she is being informed in the most graphic way (headlines) that her time in the spotlight for being "a different kind of royal" has passed. She is being portrayed as the demon interloper whose strong will apparently threatens to break up the band. For fans of her advocacy for gender equality and girls' rights, seeing Meghan's official bio include "I am proud to be a woman and a feminist" felt like a breakthrough, especially as women around the world began upping calls for respect and equal access to power. To have Buckingham Palace give approval to a woman who said on the UN platform that "equality... means that a wife is equal to her husband", and that when women don't have a seat at the table of power, "you know what, they need to create their own table" was promising.When it comes to Japanese restaurants, there's a school of thought that suggests the smaller, the better. The three Michelin-starred Sukiyabashi Jiro in Tokyo has counter seating for just 10 people. Melbourne's newly two-hatted Ishizuka has elegant seating for 14. Tetsuya's Tetsuya Wakuda has long dreamed of opening an intimate restaurant of just six or eight seats, in recognition of that special act of communion between chef and diner.

And then there's Sake Manly, which clearly adheres to another theory; that bigger is better. So Rockpool Dining Group's new baby  sixth in the Sake Restaurant & Bar family  is a whopping 300-seater stretched across the rooftop of the newly renovated Manly Wharf, cleverly broken into different zones by design team Luchetti Krelle. The sushi counter alone seats 40, the bar and lounge area, 60, and the alfresco terrace, 50, leaving another 150 diners across a vast-light-drenched dining room and a series of private dining pods. It's a blur of action and noise on a Saturday evening as black-frocked staff ferry platters and cocktails past gorgeous views of Manly Cove and incoming ferries.

Sashimi cones. Credit:Christopher Pearce

Former Sake chef-turned-consultant Shaun Presland worked with head chef Shoji Toru to create the new menu, before returning to London to open his own new Soho restaurant. The menu ticks off all the Sake favourites  sushi, sashimi, popcorn shrimp, those fluffy shumai dumplings and spider maki rolls  and introduces some intriguing new dishes.

Exhibit A: the grass-fed beef tartare crispy rice sushi ($16 for four), which is just the right combo of richly seasoned beef on still-warm, deep-fried logs of sushi rice, topped with a splat of honey mustard. And B: biscuity little sashimi cones that carry kingfish, avocado and wasabi tobiko, or salmon, avocado and orange tobiko ($12 for two). Very cute, and just the thing with a "Japerol" spritz ($17) or a "gin bowl" of Manly Spirits Co. Coastal Citrus Gin with PS40 Bush Tonic and enough salty, succulent beach banana to turn the glass into a terrarium ($19).It might seem a ludicrous thing to say about a bar with more than 350 different whiskies, but there's something to be said for limiting choice. And options are limited at Whisky Den should you arrive here with a taste for anything other than whisky. There's a serviceable beer selection (not all that interesting if you're a fan of craft), a wine list that ticks red, white, sweet and sparkling boxes, and the possibility of gin and tonic or rum and Coke, but if you ignore the name on the sign you'll be wasting your time.

If you're after whisky, however, this bar helpfully eliminates all the peripheral noise.

Whisky Den, a laidback specialist bar with more than 350 different whiskies. Credit:Simon Schluter

Melbourne in 2018 is well served with specialist whisky bars. In the CBD alone Whisky & Alement, Eau di Vie, 1806 and Boilermaker House all wave the flag for Team Whisky with style and substance.

Whisky Den is the laidback sibling of the family. It has a similar geek-level interest in the spirit but with a less fashion-conscious, almost wilfully unpretentious approach, exemplified by a soundtrack (played through tinny speakers) where Bob Marley, Warren Zevon and first-album Sunnyboys is about as current as it gets.A parliamentary report on the use of toxic firefighting foam on Defence bases has added further impetus to the ongoing campaign by ACT firefighters to have its past and present members blood tested to determine if they have been affected.

The report, released today by a bipartisan committee, examined how per- and polyflouroalkyl substances (PFAS), a highly toxic firefighting foam chemical, was used nationally and how governments have responded to the issue.

The old Charnwood fire station, where PFAS contamination was found.

PFAS has been linked to a raft of health problems, including autoimmune deficiencies and cancer.

While to date the ACT government had based its response to the PFAS issue around the inconclusive findings of an expert panel, the latest recommendation has urged the Australian government to "... review its existing advice ... including to acknowledge the potential links to certain medical conditions".The Public Sector Informant, December 2018. Credit:David Pope

The saga of David Eastman has ended  for now. A jury of 12 Canberrans decided last month there remained too much doubt to convict him of murdering ACT police chief Colin Winchester almost three decades ago. Of course, a judicial inquiry had earlier warned prosecutors this would happen, and had found it would be against the public interest to proceed with the trial. Oh well. Maybe the Director of Public Prosecutions, Jon White, will explain his unusual decision one day.

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You can read about the case elsewhere. Let me tell you instead about what you can't read.

The Eastman trial was overseen by a visiting judge, Acting Justice Murray Kellam, who was brought in from Victoria. That state happens to be Australia's suppression-order capital. Its courts have deviated so far from the traditions of open justice that Premier Daniel Andrews was compelled to raise the problem before the recent state election, saying he would change the law "to make it clear that suppression and closed court orders are exceptions to the principle of open justice and should only be made when absolutely necessary".Psychiatrists agree Ashley Paul Kelly was psychotic when he deliberately ran down a cyclist and a runner exercising in Yarralumla early on June 4 last year, a court heard Monday.

And because Mr Kelly had been driving at the time of the offences police could alcohol and drug test him. The alcohol reading was nil as were the tests for ice, MDMA and cannabis.

in the ACT Supreme Court on Monday, Mr Kelly, 34, through his lawyer, pleaded not guilty by reason of mental impairment to a charge of attempted murder and culpable driving.

Unusually, prosecutors have accepted the plea, triggering quite a different process than if the charges had been contested at trial.

Early in the morning on June 4 last year, Mr Kelly deliberately drove his purple Daihatsu Pyzar at the two men in two separate incidents on Alexandrina Drive in a short amount of time.But the firm is vigorously defending itself against the allegations in court, claiming the defects were not its fault, but may have been caused variously because of poor workmanship by the engineers, AWT [now owned by WSP], or the tiling firm on the balconies, Saba Bros.

It is understood the alleged defects range from structural cracking of the major concrete slab in the underground car park and water retention tank in the building's basement to poor workmanship on many of the development's balconies.

The owners corporation of the 120-unit apartment block, Kingston Place stage two on Eyre Street, took legal action against the firm in September last year, after first complaining to the ACT's building regulator in August 2016.

The ACT government is also a party to the case due to the owners corporation arguing the government should not have issued a certificate of occupancy and use for the development, and all defendants have not admitted any liability for the alleged problems.

The company is also currently selling thousands of new units across the city, including at One City Hill, Park Avenue and Highgate in Civic, Parc in Macquarie, Nova in Dickson and Jacqueline's Rise in Watson.

It is also selling units in developments in Queensland, including Sandbar at Burleigh Heads, Otto at Mermaid's Beach and Koko, Opus and Qube at Broadbeach, as well as the Miramar tower in Geelong, Victoria.

On its website, the company says it will deliver certainty, quality, transparency and "simplexity" for all buyers of its units, and its team was dedicated "to providing versatile and liveable apartments of exceptional quality".

While The Canberra Times has not seen a formal estimate of the cost of potential rectification works, it would likely run into millions of dollars, given allegations almost all of the 122 balconies need repairs, as well as the basement car park concrete slab and water retention tank.On the one hand, the federal government is getting pretty excited over its new counter-

terrorism bill, demanding Parliament pass it this week. On the other, the scale and number of terrorist attacks in Australia is small and the problem seems in check. Is this just a piece of political theatre by a government desperate to show how tough it is and how feeble the Labor Party is? Or is there serious need?

I'd like to call an independent expert witness.

Illustration: Dionne Gain

Nick Rasmussen is an American with impeccable credentials. He's a career diplomat with nearly two decades as a senior counterterrorism official. For the last three years he led the overall US effort as head of the National Counterterrorism Centre. He was director of the agency under both Barack Obama and Donald Trump, a reliable clue that he's a respected professional, not a political hack.

"It's hard to argue that the threat is receding," Rasmussen tells me. A Washington think tank, the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, reports that the number of violent jihadis in the world has quadrupled since the September 11, 2001 attacks on the US.Yang Lan remains a constant presence as her TV career continues to blossom in parallel with the country, Liu Xiangrui reports.



TV host and entrepreneur Yang Lan says she is lucky that her entire career has overlapped with the major part of the country's reform and opening-up, which she calls "a golden three decades for television".

In fact, several major transitions in her career are actually consistent with the development path of the media and entire cultural industry in China.

"Reform gave me the chance to become a TV host in the first place," says Yang, with her signature smile, at her office in downtown Beijing.

In 1990, Yang, freshly graduated as an English major, stood out during her China Central Television recruitment because of her image and natural hosting style-being given the opportunity to host a new program called Zhengda Variety Show.

Yang says she was chosen as one of the hosts because the organization was looking to change its traditional hosting style, and her "clean background" as a young host became an advantage.

The program, which sought to introduce the outside world to a Chinese audience, was innovative, as it featured lighthearted studio interactions with guests.

With the program's rating reaching a record-high 20 percent, she became a household name nationwide.

Despite her success as a young anchor, Yang started thinking about the future, and surprised everyone when, in 1994, she resigned from CCTV and went to study for her master's degree in the United States.

"I wasn't satisfied, and eagerly wanted to see the world," Yang explains, though she had not figured out what exactly she was looking for and in which direction she was headed.

"Most young TV hosts in China tend to face bottlenecks later in their careers. I just believed that I should appreciate in value over time, rather than devalue."

Yang returned from the US in 2001 and started Yang Lan One on One, which was the first high-end TV interview program in China.

The show has become one of the longest running, and most influential, of its kind in China. It has featured interviews with around a thousand public figures, from various fields and many countries, covering hot topics in politics and economics, as well as social and cultural issues-each one offering the personal experiences.A NSW-led review of Australia's outdated defamation laws will consider whether the laws are meeting their policy objectives, including ensuring unreasonable limits are not placed on "the publication and discussion of matters of public interest", terms of reference released on Tuesday reveal.

The state's Attorney-General, Mark Speakman, kicked off a long-overdue review of the country's defamation laws in June, more than a decade after the states and territories introduced uniform laws in 2006 to replace an unworkable system of eight different defamation laws across the country.

NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman. Credit:James Alcock

The laws were intended to be reviewed "as soon as possible" after their fifth birthday in January 2011 and a report released within a year of that milestone, but the reform process has been beset by delays.

On Tuesday Mr Speakman released the terms of reference for the NSW-led review, which is being conducted by a national working group including a representative from each state and territory.Young people have learned some valuable lessons about how to behave when they grow up over the last few years. That its not ok to pick on someone because they are different, that its ok to speak up if you are getting picked on; and that bullying is a no-no. Good work, Safe Schools and the NSW Department of Educations anti-bullying program.

Politicians have not yet learned those valuable lessons. Unfortunately, anti-bullying programs werent around when this lot were in school  and it is clearly far too late for a number of our representatives, some of whom need to attend re-education camps. These politicians do not know how to behave in public, or even in private.

Julia Banks in the House of Representatives, announcing her decision to quit the Liberal Party and join the crossbench. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Which is why I am imploring both political parties to embrace independent Cathy McGowans parliamentary standards bill (alongside a National Integrity Commission). The bill would govern the behaviour of parliamentarians. It would deliver all the things the rest of us have  a code of conduct and the possibility of referral to an independent body.

The gaping maw of absent parliamentary integrity emerged over the weekend. Grown men going hell for leather in front of schoolchildren, who I can only hope were distracted from these events. Influential men trying to bully Julia Banks, who abandoned the Liberal Party because she couldnt get anyone to stop bad behaviour. And thats on top of all the revelations of bullying during the foolish decision to dump Malcolm Turnbull for a lesser prime minister.More than 100 mothers have offered their life-saving breast milk to the most vulnerable premature babies within just 24 hours of NSWs first statewide Milk Bank officially opening.

NICUs cross NSW can now order donated human milk on demand just like a blood bank to safely feed and protect the most vulnerable premature babies in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) from potentially life-threatening conditions associated with being born early.

Penny Pearce, who has donated about 18 litres of breast milk - enough to feed 400 babies, with her daughter Vivian. Credit:Nick Moir

The Milk Bank was officially opened on Sunday thanks to a world-first partnership between the NSW government and the Australian Red Cross Blood Service.

Within a day, 105 mothers have contacted the Milk Bank eager to donate their own breast milk. Their altruism has touched and amazed Milk Bank staff, who hope to recruit 600 donors by next December.Television and sport

Television was certain to have an effect on crowds attending sporting fixtures, said Mr A C Paddison, president of the Australian Federation of Commercial Broadcasting Stations. Giving evidence before the Parliamentary Committee on Broadcasting, he said this was one of the many problems associated with television. I must admit it would be more comfortable watching a Test match in your home than sweltering on The Hill," he added.

ABC's 'Labour flavour'

Broadcasts over the ABC had a Communistic and Labour flavour, asserted the deputy-leader of the Federal Opposition, Mr Harrison, in reply to the chairman of the ABC, Mr R J F Boyer. I am surprised at the attitude that Mr Boyer has taken to criticism of national broadcasts ..." said Mr Harrison [who said] he had received scores of letters complaining that ABC news items, talks, and commentaries had a definite Labour bias.

Circus elephant to rescueThe medical director of the Northern Beaches Hospital is on her way out amid a litany of problems affecting patients and staff.

Dr Louise Messara will step away from her role as director of medical services just two weeks after Sydneys newest hospital officially opened, the Herald has learned.

Louise Messara is the medical director at the Northern Beaches Hospital. Credit:Fairfax Media

Healthscope's chief medical officer Dr Victoria Atkinson announced Dr Messara's departure at a Medical Staff Council meeting on Monday night. It is not known where Dr Messara will move. Dr Atkinson told the staff she would likely take up a position at another Healthscope facility.

Her exit comes after senior doctors unanimously passed a vote of no-confidence in her leadership at a crisis meeting in November, the same day the hospital's CEO Deborah Latta resigned, just two days after the hospital officially opened.Police are searching for a man after a violent fight on a public bus in the northern beaches left a man with serious facial injuries on Monday night.

The bus was travelling along Warringah Road near O'Connors Road in Beacon Hill.

Just before 9.30pm the driver pulled over and called police after a fight broke out between three male passengers on the bus.

After the bus stopped, the men disembarked and continued brawling on the side of the road.

When police and paramedics arrived, one of the men had fled.Police have closed a Queanbeyan street outside an apartment block, conducting an "operation" that appeared to be a siege.

NSW Police have refused to confirm the nature of the operation but police and firefighters have entered and exited the building over several hours while paramedics wait outside.

A police operation on Monday night at Donald Road, Queanbeyan. Credit:Jamila Toderas

Police cordoned off Donald Road between Margaret Street and Anne Street at about 7pm, but first arrived at 2pm.

Neighbours described the presence of emergency services growing through the afternoon before police closed the street.NSW Education Minister Rob Stokes has accused some of his federal counterparts of wilful ignorance over climate change, saying he understood why striking students were frustrated.

Mr Stokes said he did not agree with Friday's strike by school students over climate but understood their sentiment, given they arrive home from lessons about the greenhouse gas effect only to turn on the TV and see politicians dismiss it as an "elitist falsehood".

NSW Education Minister Rob Stokes says some federal MPs show "wilful ignorance" on climate. Credit: Simone De Peak

The comments came as the NSW Coalition government distances itself from its federal counterparts after a weekend poll showed the Berejiklian government trailing Labor just months from the March election.

"A passionate generation of young scholars consistently hear a wilful ignorance of scientific evidence and expert advice from many elected officials," Mr Stokes said.Queensland continues to be hammered by severe weather, with authorities warning landslides could be on the horizon.

There were 110 fires burning across the state on Monday afternoon, with a series of thunderstorms expected to pass through central Queensland.

Inside the briefing room at the Kedron Emergency Services Centre. Credit:Jack Tran/ Office of the Premier

Bureau of Meteorology Queensland weather services manager Richard Wardle said forecast thunderstorms and rain in the Wide Bay and Burnett regions could help, but also complicate, firefighting efforts.

"These storms could bring damaging to destructive winds, large to giant hail and heavy rainfall," he said.Two armed men have been taken into custody just before 5pm on Monday afternoon after a near-six-hour siege at an apartment block in the Brisbane suburb of Auchenflower.

The two men, wanted over property offences in the south of Brisbane, barricaded themselves into an apartment at the Chasely Apartments Hotel on Coronation Drive after firing a shot at detectives and Special Emergency Response Team police shortly after 11am.

A Police SERT office at the Chasely Apartments Hotel, where two armed people were holed up in an apartment below. Credit:Dan Peled/AAP

Negotiators attended the scene as an emergency declaration was made surrounding the apartment, closing the key arterial road of Coronation Drive for hours.

All roads were reopened just before 5pm.As warm breezes blow on colorful embroidered attire and silver ornaments, singing voices echo above the drum towers.



The 15th Kam Grand Choir Festival concluded Friday in the county of Congjiang in Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, in southwest China's Guizhou Province. The three-day event featured grand choirs and singing competitions along the riverside, along with many traditional festive activities in different Dong villages.

The Kam Grand Choir is a type of polyphonic folk singing performed without musical instruments or a conductor. Also known as the Grand Song of the Dong, one of China's 55 ethnic minorities, the choir was included in the World Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2009.

In Dingdong Village, more than a thousand villagers gathered in the public playground Friday afternoon for "Cai Ge Tang," a grand spectacle performed as the villagers walk and dance in circles. The spontaneous repertoire lasted for hours.

"Today, on this special occasion, the songs are mostly about how we miss the good old days we spent together as childhood friends, and about our wish to find the love of life," said Liang Xiangtao, 25, one of the local village girls singing and dancing in the circle.

Teenagers in Dong villages usually learn to sing the traditional songs before their coming-of-age ceremony at the age of 15, and then sing in groups with members of the same age, Liang said.

According to Liang, since the dialect of the Dong ethnic group lacks a written form, many traditions and customs in life are passed on via these folk songs.

"My friends and I all left work for this event because we deeply cherish and identify with our cultural heritage," said Liang, who currently works in a family inn miles away from her village.

"I've been thinking about coming back home and recording the traditional Dong songs," Liang said.

According to Liang, although residents are keen on transmitting their tradition, young people under her age now know less about the Dong songs as a growing number of them have left for school or work.

"They are more than just songs for us, they are ancient nuggets of wisdom and cultural heritage we would hate to lose," she said.

Richard Watts, a photographer from the U.K., was among the visitors at the event.

Since first visiting Guizhou in 1994, Richard's interest in Guizhou has grown tremendously. He now spends four to five months traveling and taking pictures of minority groups in the province each year.

"It's my great passion," he said.

For Watts, the ethnic groups' enduring preservation of and passion for ethnic traditions are what keep bringing him back to Guizhou.

"The essence of them remain unchanged. Modernity has come to their lives, so they've changed a little bit, but you can still find many traditional elements," Watts said. EnditemIf a leader is purely focussed on economic policy, then who is there to defend religious schools that could soon lose the right to teach their ethos according to their faith? Who will stand up for freedom of speech on campus? Who will stand up for workers once every coal mine in Australia is run out of town? And who will argue for literacy and numeracy in schools, over trendy activism?

It was only after a fierce effort by those that believe in freedom of speech that Turnbull was prepared to put a bill to the Senate to deal with 18C, something his predecessor was unable to do; Turnbull should be credited for this.

But his latest entry into the public consciousness is unhelpful and hinders the party from building the holistic story that can capture the imagination of voters. Voters will support a party with a coherent plan and a vision for the nations future.

Many journalists and commentators are running the line that the Liberal Party lost in the Victorian state election because the party was too right wing on issues such as climate and energy policy.

This is wrong. The exact same journalists and commentators were not as forthcoming with an equal analysis of the left of politics after Labors defeat at the 2013 federal election, or the defeat of the Labor government in South Australia, both largely based on climate and energy policy.It can be difficult not to feel despondent when you see the news reports on the state of our environment. Last week, Victoria was given a resounding "F" on the report card of the Yarra, with the contents of a small part of its belly revealing 10 tonnes of human detritus. It can feel as if the battle against human rubbish and carelessness can never be won, it feels like you may as well sink into the putrid silt of the river along with the single-use coffee cups lurking there. Why dont people care enough? In the whole of a large takeaway cafe the other morning, I was one of two people with a reusable coffee cup (apologies to the man who I semi-desperately high-fived in solidarity).

'Don't kill our home': Students on the steps of Parliament on Friday. Credit:Luis Enrique Ascui

But then you see the heartening story on the young people of Victoria taking to the city streets to demand the powers that they be listened to in their plea for the Earth. That they want and deserve a future as bright as we promise them they are entitled to. You see that they are pushing no particular political barrow other than genuine concern for the planet we all share  appealing to all sides to hear their requests and take them seriously, even though most cannot yet vote and therefore tend to get overlooked.

Woe betide any political party that refuses to listen, for in a few years they will be voting and they will clearly remember who took them seriously and who merely curled their lip, laughed rudely and told them to go back to school.A royal commission will be held into what is likely the biggest legal scandal in Victoria's history that stems from Melbourne's bloody gangland war and threatens to quash the convictions of notorious underworld crime figures.

At the heart of the unprecedented scandal is a criminal defence barrister who became a police informer and gave up information about her own clients, in conduct the High Court of Australia slammed as "reprehensible".

A number of convictions are now in doubt, including that of drug lord Tony Mokbel and those obtained in the infamous "tomato tins" drug case, namely Calabrian Mafia boss Pasquale Barbaro and trafficker Rob Karam.

Tony Mokbel is among the high-profile gangland criminals whose cases are affected. Credit:AP

Known by the pseudonyms - Informer 3838, Witness EF or Lawyer X - the barrister claimed her information led to the arrest and charging of 386 people and generated more than 5500 internal information reports that were key in several gangland investigations.That year, she says, she played a "pivotal role" in persuading underworld "supergrass" Thomas Hentschel to roll over and give evidence against his former associates. It was the first major crack in the wall of silence that had kept the underworld war rolling. The picture Informer 3838 painted of that time in Victoria's history was not just a criminal fraternity imposing a code of silence on each other, but of a legal profession that was so cowed by their own clients that they were part of the problem. In September 2005, it was this pressure that pushed Informer 3838 from being an occasional helper of police to a registered informer. Tony Mokbel, who was a client of Informer 3838. Credit:AAP "My breaking point came when I was threatened by Tony Mokbel," she wrote.

As she tells it, Mokbel wanted one of his low-level employees  a first-time offender who was operating pill presses and manufacturing tens of thousands of MDMA pills for him  to "keep his mouth shut and plead guilty". As his lawyer, Informer 3838 was expected by Mokbel to convince her client to plead guilty, regardless of where his own interests lay. Loading "This kind of scenario had happened numerous times," she wrote. So, after running a bail application for a member of Mokbel's drug trafficking syndicate, when two detectives approached her to help them out, she made a decision: she would throw herself into the arms of police.

She says she was promised multiple times by her handlers that she would never be revealed as an informer, that her role would never be made public, and she would not be called as a witness. "If this gets out, say nice things at my eulogy, because I will be gone," she said at one point, "and enjoy the Royal Commission". Her strategy, she said, was one of plausible deniability, to "hide in plain sight". For the next four years, Purana set about cracking the gangland code, and this gangland barrister was their (very) secret weapon. "From 16 September 2005, I spoke to my handlers on a daily basis, often seven days a week for a couple of years," she wrote.

"There are approximately 5500 Information Reports generated from information I provided to police. There was no topic, criminal, organised crime group or underworld crime that was 'off limits' during the many debriefing sessions that occurred or during the years that followed," Informer 3838 wrote. As the High Court found this week, as it lifted the web of suppression orders that has kept knowledge of all this from the Victorian public, this was a fundamental and appalling breach of her obligations as counsel to her clients and of her duties to the court. In encouraging her to do it, the court found, Victoria Police was guilty of reprehensible conduct. And in 2009, things started to come crashing down. The then police commissioner, Simon Overland, decided he wanted to call her as a witness in the case against former officer Paul Dale, who was suspected of murdering informers Terrence Hodson and his wife, Christine. Informer 3838 claims her co-operation with police left her out of pocket, but documents obtained by The Age show that, between March and December in 2009, more than $300,000 was spent on her. Police paid for overseas travel, accommodation, body corporate fees, toll fees, hire cars, fuel, mobile phone bills and a weekly stipend of $1000. There were even claims for cigarettes and "refreshments". Title searches also reveal that Informant 3838 has a significant property portfolio, including five homes or apartments.

She was assured in this period that her name and role would remain secret but, according to her, "every assurance given to me was a lie". The lawyer would later claim in a writ against Mr Overland and his predecessor, Christine Nixon, that police induced her to make a statement against Mr Dale. Her cover was blown, she said, and her life, and those of her two children, was in danger. Loading She sued police for damages. The case went to mediation. The night before the mediation was held, she writes: "My gynaecological oncologist had diagnosed me with the return of cancerous tissue that required surgery". She does not mention it in her letter to Assistant Commissioner Fontana, but the lawsuit ended in a settlement of $2.88 million, paid by Victorian taxpayers.

Things settled down, she writes in her letter and, by 2014, she had "managed to regain my health to the level of being able to conceive a daughter after 15 months of IVF treatment and I had also overcome great difficulties within the legal profession and been able to do some casual work as an employee solicitor". Then it emerged publicly in a number of media reports, that a lawyer, whose name was suppressed, had become a police informer. A year later, when she was writing the letter to police, she said, "my mental, emotional and physical health are in decline and I feel the impact of this nightmare almost every single day. "In addition to my anxiety, fear, severe depression, PTSD and paranoia, my reputation is gone and I will never be able to work as a lawyer again.'' She wrote she had experienced "almost complete disillusionment" with police, adding that "each day is a nightmare" as she feared what new information would emerge, including "the consequences for my safety and wellbeing".A Perth high school was put into lockdown last week after police were called to remove a suspended student from school grounds.

Lesmurdie Senior High School took action as a precaution last Tuesday when a student, who was suspended at the time, arrived at the school.

Lesmurdie Senior High School was put into lockdown on Tuesday. Credit:Facebook

She was accompanied by another minor who was unknown to the school.

Its understood the girls were searching the school for a third student.A recent Accenture survey found that, as Australians accessed more artificial intelligence-driven solutions in their daily lives, they expected the same from their government services. Only one in five Australians said they were opposed to governments using AI. More than half (52 per cent) actively supported it.

The survey of more than 6000 citizens from Australia, France, Germany, Singapore, Britain and the United States found Australians were keen for state and federal governments to use AI to improve public programs and services. It revealed Australians were getting more comfortable with AI as they were exposed to it. An overwhelming majority (88 per cent) were equally or more comfortable using AI today than 12 months ago.

Australians are more likely than Americans to trust government use of AI. Credit:Shutterstock

More than 50 per cent of respondents supported governments using AI to deliver new or improved services more efficiently. Nearly half said the personalisation of government services was a top priority.

More than half of respondents said they would like to use an AI-enabled chatbot to learn about visa requirements for international travel, and supported the use of AI to streamline applications for government services like job applications, tax returns and student loans. They also welcomed human services agencies using AI to speed up eligibility decisions and better identify what people needed.In search of a compromise, the Turnbull government initiated a religious freedom review in November 2017, chaired by Liberal Party elder Philip Ruddock. Six months after the review's recommendations were presented to the government, they have still not been officially released. As the Morrison government has shown by its tardiness, this is a minefield for any government, and a Coalition government in particular.

That seems clear enough. But society is changing and there is considerable pressure on governments, state and federal, to wind back these protections. Labor and the Greens say they are sympathetic to at least some change. A recent Senate inquiry took a similar view. The churches say they do not want to discriminate; rather, they want a statement of religious values, which will present their stance in a more positive way.

As they stand, anti-discrimination laws (state and federal) give quite wide protections to religious freedom, in the form of exceptions to the relevant laws. In these circumstances, to use the words of the Victorian Equal Opportunity Commission, religious institutions are able to discriminate on the basis of "religious belief or activity, sex, sexual orientation, lawful sexual activity, marital status, parental status or gender identity, where this discrimination conforms to the doctrines, beliefs of principles of the religion".

The relationship between church and state has always been uneasy. In the policy world, there are many points of intersection and, often, friction between secular and religious values. As Western societies become progressively more liberal, we can expect this friction to increase, as we see in the current conflict between anti-discrimination law and religious freedom. Many believers feel deeply threatened. Are they right to be concerned?

But what, exactly, is "religious freedom"? I had not heard of this value until comparatively recently. It is, like so many of our current cultural concepts, of American origin. The US constitution (via the first amendment) prevents the Congress from establishing any religion, and guarantees the right to practise one's religion, free of any restriction by the state.

Traditionally, the US Supreme Court has interpreted the first part of the first amendment to mean that the state cannot legislate in support of any religion, which is why church-run schools in the US need to be funded by those who want to use them. There is an interesting contrast here between the two federations. While section 116 of the Australian constitution prescribes an equally strict separation of church and state, the Australian High Court has not seen this provision as inhibiting public funding of these schools. Religious freedom, Australian-style, means that not only are we free to choose our religion, the government will support our choice by subsidising faith-based schools.

Credit:Matt Golding

But this easy pragmatism has produced a long and very porous boundary between church and state. With the legalisation of same-sex marriage, the contrast between the two value systems seems impossible to ignore. Conservative Christians (and I assume, all Muslims) disapprove of forms of sexuality that are prohibited in their sacred texts. Although homosexuality is no longer illegal, conservative Christians do not accept what we might call practising gayness. You can be gay, and be loved, but you are not supposed to act on your preference. Same-sex marriage clearly confronts this belief.

When it comes to schools, though, it is not just the churches that are involved. Parents pay substantial sums to send their children to religious schools. There is a wide spectrum of parental belief (and non-belief) operating here. Many, possibly most, want their children to be taught by professional teachers of competence and integrity, and would regard the sexuality or marital arrangements of their child's teacher as irrelevant. On the other hand, conservative parents would not want their children taught by people who are practising a form of sexuality that is not biblically sanctioned, and would expect the school to which they send their children to respect this wish.Australians have stepped up their concerns about immigration at the same time they have lost confidence in government, with 43 per cent of people declaring the migrant intake to be too high compared to 37 per cent one year ago.

A major new survey on social cohesion reveals a narrow majority support for the current intake, with 35 per cent saying the numbers are "about right" and 17 per cent wanting more arrivals.

But the Monash University study suggests the growing debate on the issue, including federal government plans to cut permanent migration, has taken opposition to the intake to the highest levels since the "big Australia" dispute of 2010.

Australians continue to believe that multiculturalism has been good for the country, according to a new study. Credit:Jamie Brown

At the same time, the survey of more than 3500 adults showed that few considered immigration to be a top priority and most were strong supporters of a mix of cultures.It is more than a quarter of a century since the High Court's Mabo decision first acknowledged Indigenous Australians as traditional owners of the land of Australia.

In that time a whole generation of younger Australians has grown up with a sense that the constitution written in the days of White Australia needed to change to reflect the unique status of Indigenous people.

Yet little progress has been made because of the deep disagreements over what form that recognition should take.

Senator Pat Dodson: Creating a constitutional indigenous voice is a priority. Credit:Peter Eve

The Uluru Statement from the Heart by Indigenous leaders last year offered a way forward, advocating a constitutionally entrenched "voice" for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. This was endorsed on Friday by a parliamentary joint select committee on constitutional recognition.The Faculty of Engineering at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Science (Harvard SEAS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) here Sunday to set up a Laboratory for Instrumentation for Precision Medicine.

Both sides aimed to build a laboratory focusing on medical instrumentation for microfluidic-based diagnostics, drug delivery and sensor development in the age of precision medicine.

"The HKSAR government is committed to attracting world-leading research institutions to conduct collaborative research," a press release from HKU quoted Carrie Lam, chief executive of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), as saying at the signing ceremony.

"The signing of the MoU between the HKU Faculty of Engineering and Harvard SEAS, which signifies enhanced collaboration and cross-fertilization in the research area of precision medicine in Hong Kong, is a very significant step in this endeavor," she said.

Precision medicine is an emerging field of research by scientists. Innovation and technological development in the area will open up a new paradigm in healthcare leading to the customization of healthcare, with medical decisions, treatments, practices, or products being tailored to individuals.

"The collaboration will enable the talented engineers and scientists in both universities to create significant innovative instrumentations for precision medicine, and will facilitate the design of devices and treatments that will impact health care across the world," Executive Dean for Education and Research at Harvard SEAS Fawwaz Habbal said at the event.

"The signing of MoU is expected that by joining the strengths of the two academia, a strong platform will be built for translating fundamental breakthroughs and more synergistic activities will be conducted for the advancement of healthcare-related technologies that can lead to strong technology transfer value and societal impact," Dean of Engineering of HKU Christopher Chao said.

In the coming months, HKU Faculty of Engineering and Harvard SEAS intend to submit a proposal to the HKSAR government under the recently announced Health@InnoHK research cluster initiative, with a plan to establish a research laboratory in the Hong Kong Science Park.One in five Australian Border Force staff have recently been bullied or harassed at work and the same proportion has suffered discrimination, according to leaked internal documents that confirm the deeply toxic culture corroding the quasi-military agency.

The shocking findings cast serious doubt on claims by the Department of Home Affairs, overseen by minister Peter Dutton, that takes a "zero tolerance" approach to unacceptable behaviour, and have prompted questions over the organisation's overall effectiveness.

The Australian Border Force, which merged customs, immigration and border protection, has been controversial since its inception in 2015. Critics questioned the military-style uniforms and hardline, "hairy chested" image of the agency, which in recent years has outspent the Department of Defence on medals for its staff.

One in five Australian Border Force staff report being bullied or harassed in the past year. Credit:File photo/Wolter Peeters

As The Age and The Herald revealed on Sunday, a young Border Force trainee who took her life in 2016 left a suicide note alleging difficulties at work, while compensation claims from officers suffering psychological injury such as depression are also common. Former insiders have told of a rampant culture of bullying and harassment.Some academic writers on public administration, following Harvard scholar Professor Mark Moore, now prefer to use the concept of "public value" rather than "the public interest" to describe the basic principle motivating public servants. Though etymologically equivalent to "the public interest", "public value" is understood somewhat differently to describe the benefits that public managers seek to achieve for their communities. In this pursuit, managers are required to deal with several constraints, including the need to satisfy the authorising political environment and relevant stakeholders and the need for adequate financial and administrative resources.

The key contrast with the Westminster paradigm is that working towards the elected government's objectives is no longer front and centre but only one factor among many. The model works well in the United States, where the separation of executive and legislative powers means government agencies serve two political masters with divergent priorities. In Australia and elsewhere, it also fits situations where political direction is minimal and managers have considerable discretion in setting strategic directions. This is the case for most local government managers and many managers at the state level. In the federal government, however, particularly for departments under direct ministerial control, the mandate of ministers, reinforced by intense media and parliamentary scrutiny, tends to dominate. Managers still have discretion but it is severely constrained by the overriding imperative to serve the minister and government of the day. In this context, it makes sense to describe public servants as pursuing the public interest determined by ministers.

Pezzullo's emphasis on political direction has no doubt been reinforced by his experience with immigration and border protection. His portfolio has been required to implement highly controversial policies, particularly on asylum seekers. Many of his subordinates have had misgivings about being required to act in breach of Australia's international obligations. They have needed to be reminded that, as loyal public servants, their duty is to implement government policy, however repugnant they may find it. Pezzullo's argument in this lecture, that those who are very strongly opposed should resign and stand for office themselves, is probably one he has advanced many times internally with colleagues.

Agriculture Minister David Littleproud let his department cop a shellacking over live exports after it had responded to his party's priorities on live export. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Immigration policy classically illustrates the Westminster conventions at work, with ministers taking clear public responsibility and public servants in the role of dutiful administrators. But the system requires both partners, ministers as well as public servants, to make their own contribution, a point Pezzullo is too discreet to insist on. Ministers should not expect loyalty from their departments unless they are prepared to front up and take their full share of responsibility. Too often, ministers are happy to devolve responsibility and accountability on to public servants, especially when things go wrong. The infamous home insulation ("pink batts") policy, the most thoroughly investigated recent example of policy failure, is a case in point. The overriding cause of failure was relentless political pressure from ministers determined to spend quickly without due attention to risk. In the aftermath, however, public servants, especially the hapless staff of the Environment Department, were left to bear the brunt of public criticism.In explaining these "themes", Thodey lays on further abstractions such as "a state of being", "a whole ecosystem", "entrenches stewardship and drives behaviours", "empowered and courageous leaders", "world class is more than a metric", "compelling employee value proposition", "genuine 2030 partnerships", "a process that shuns status and embraces curiosity" and quoting someone (not Donald Rumsfield) who talks about "social glue between the known and the unknown". Heady stuff from a review most of whose members do not live in Canberra. Still, there's nothing wrong with abstraction and, in many instances, it's unavoidable and helpful. Indeed, some of the thoughts in Thodey's five "themes" may be useful, however they are inadequate and faulty in critical respects. APS review chairman David Thodey's lexicon might be partly responsible for Gordon de Brouwer's complaint. Credit:Daniel Munoz First, they're unclear. What does "a strong Australian Public Service" mean? "Strong" is an awkward word as it has many meanings, some of which may apply in this context. So what is it to be from the dictionary selection: "being able to resist great force", "not easily damaged", "powerful", "able to overcome", "capable of exerting great force", "formidable" or something else? It's foolhardy to try to work with a "theme" that has no clearly defined and comprehensible meaning. This looks like something from a sheet of butcher's paper. Second, they're ambiguous. For example, what does "an employer of choice" imply and mean? It has no generally understood definition. Ask any two people and different answers are likely.

Third, they seek to secure what might not be obtainable. If we are to have "a world-class Australian Public Service", that will come with a cost. Yet Thodey warns that the "resources we need are scarcer" and there's little evidence taxpayers are prepared to pay more for platinum-plated service. Further, the terms of reference for this review ask for recommendations that might make the public service "fit for purpose"; whatever that might mean, it does not imply something that is necessarily "world class". That is to say, the "theme" and the terms of reference are out of sync. Loading Fourth, the "themes" are notable for what they don't say. There's nothing in them about such crucial staples as accountability, openness, the equitable provision of services, merit staffing, honesty, integrity and so on. Some of these things might be able to be seen lurking behind the "themes" but that's not good enough. They should not be hidden behind vague and ambiguous abstractions. They warrant front and centre notification in their own right and they should be central to the review's considerations. These "themes" need serious rethinking, clarification and expansion. If Thodey goes ahead and uses, as he puts it, "this framework to consider our recommendations", the review will risk an unhappy ending. It appears it is prepared to take that risk and is sticking with its "themes", for all their manifest shortcomings. Indeed, at the time of writing, 1 of them have been given pride of place on the review's website, which invites readers to vote on what "contributes most to being a trusted partner" out of a selection of "responsiveness", "openness", "reliability" or "integrity", and on what contributes most to being "united in collective endeavour", with a choice between "apolitical", "citizen-focused", "results-driven", "aspirational", "future-focussed", "clear and direct  no jargon", or "reflect the role of serving" governments. No sense of irony is apparent in the inclusion of "clear and direct  no jargon".

This is kindergarten stuff. It is miles from the boundaries of satire. And public servants are ignoring it, as they should. Thus, in the couple of weeks (when I viewed it) this childish quiz had been up on the review's website, it has attracted about 50 votes, some of which may be from the public service's 150,000 staff. There's usually little point in getting involved in the farcical. Loading The quiz is yet another example of the flawed methodology the review panel has used from the word go. The time initially allowed for lodging submissions was too short and was extended for too short a period. Government agencies were not asked to lodge submissions and most didn't, including those that should have been in the front row: the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Finance Department and the Public Service Commission. The review has conducted no open hearings at which government agencies and other interested parties could be questioned about their views in a contestable way; the contrast with the financial services royal commission or, more relevantly, the Coombs royal commission could not be starker. And, at the time of writing, the review had published no research or other papers, or draft recommendations and their rationales, as did minister John Dawkins in the course of the major 1983-84 improvements. That is to say, the review has provided no satisfactory basis for substantive and meaningful consultations, among other things. After six months, the review has only produced the five "themes" as reported herein, and Thodey's suggestion that something might be said for an overall "purpose statement" for the public service. It's slim pickings. The review has taken a lot in by way of submissions but given precious little out. It brings to mind the headmaster of a Hobart school in the 1950s who often complained that his charges were doing "the breaststroke inwards". It's all very well for members and staff of the review to sit around in private meeting rooms with sundry invitees, a facilitator or two, and a few sheets of butcher's paper onto which spur-of-the-moment bright ideas are noted. Some of this can be useful. But it is no substitute for what should be the review's real work: the lonely hardscrabble of clearly defining problems, gathering all relevant data, analysing possible solutions, clearly articulating the best ones and justifying them. For the moment, there's no evidence the review has done anywhere near enough of this. If it has, it's hiding its light under a bushel.The Morrison government is preparing itself for a final all-or-nothing tilt at voters in the April budget, dismissing Malcolm Turnbull suggestion that the government should go to the polls straight after the summer break.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg's personal ambition to deliver the first surplus in a decade has effectively ruled out any chance of voters casting their judgment before May.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

"As the Prime Minister said last week, the Liberal-National government promised Australians a surplus budget and a surplus budget is what we will deliver for them on 2 April," Mr Frydenberg said.



"This will be the first surplus budget since the last year of the Howard government."Malcolm Turnbull says his Monday morning fusillade against the state of Scott Morrisons government doesnt amount to either revenge or an intervention in the internal affairs of the party and the government he once led.

Turnbull insists that he didn't set out to attack - he was prompted to turn his artillery on the absurdity of Morrison protecting the conservative Liberal backbencher Craig Kelly because parts of a weekend conversation he'd had with a NSW Minister, Matt Kean, had been leaked to a newspaper.

Turnbull, in going public, says he simply wanted to set a few matters straight, including his belief that Kelly should not get special treatment after allegedly threatening to defect to the crossbench.

But however his comments might be interpreted - and youd have to be splitting hairs very finely indeed to deny they amount to an intervention - Turnbull has guaranteed the Morrison government ends its parliamentary year in a car wreck.A hallmark of the current federal government has been its reduction of staffing in the Australian Public Service, coupled with an (arguably corresponding) increase in the use of labour contractors.

It was reported in March that, since the 2013 election, annual spending on labour contractors by 18 of the largest federal departments and agencies had more than doubled from $318 million to $730 million. The "big four" consultancy and accounting firms  KPMG, PwC, EY and Deloitte  had also benefited from greater government spending, collectively receiving $1.7 billion worth of contracts over this period.

However, this has come at a time the APS itself has shrunk, in no small part thanks to the staffing cap that the government imposed on it. In fact, the APS is now the smallest it has been since 2006.

Anecdotally, and from my experience over the past few years, it is not uncommon for APS positions to be replaced with contractors engaged to perform essentially the same role. In fact, not infrequently, the same APS employee whose position was given over to a contractor is then engaged as that contractor.The boss of one of the state's most powerful unions has delivered a stinging rebuke to the McGowan Government for giving the green light to fracking in the North West and has promised to recruit branch members into the Labor Party to fight the decision.

Maritime Union of Australia secretary Christy Cain said he was disillusioned and disappointed with WA Labor, but vowed to "box on" over the issue.

WA Maritime Union boss Christy Cain at his headquarters in Fremantle. Credit:Philip Gostelow

"Obviously we havent done enough work inside the party, and obviously one should ask what the f--k they, the McGowan Government, are doing," he said.

"We have a platform, which they play lip service to, unless it suits them.London: The head of the international Red Cross has appealed to Australia to change its mind and come to Marrakech next week to sign a new global compact on migration that was designed to protect migrants from abuse and trafficking.

The plea comes as a new report, compiled by the Red Cross, finds the number of children on the worlds migration trails, including many travelling alone, has risen five-fold in the past decade. Many of them are psychologically scarred and at grave risk of violence and exploitation.

The orange lifeboats that Australia briefly used in 2015 to return asylum seekers to Indonesia. Credit:Michael Bachelard

We expect more from a country that is based on migration, International Federation of the Red Cross president Francesco Rocca said of Australia, speaking exclusively to The Age and Herald.

The Morrison government has said it will not sign up to the United Nations Global Compact on migration.London: Foreign criminals awaiting deportation from Denmark will be banished to a deserted island, the government has announced.

Rejected asylum seekers who have committed crimes will be detained at a facility on Lindholm, an uninhabited, seven-hectare island in the province of Vordinborg, a kilometre from the mainland.

Denmark's Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen's leads the conservative coalition government and its anti-immigration ally, the Danish People's Party (DF). Credit:AP

It will also house foreigners who do not have permission to stay but cannot be deported for legal reasons, such as stateless people and those from countries which do not have a readmission agreement with Denmark.

The tough regime was set up as part of an agreement between Denmark's conservative coalition government and its anti-immigration ally, the Danish People's Party (DF).Five years on from The White Storm, Hong Kong stars Sean Lau Ching-wan and Nick Cheung Ka-fai join forces once again in the forthcoming film, Integrity, which will hit Chinas theaters on Feb 5  the first day of 2019 Spring Festival.

Directed and written by Alan Mak Siu-Fai, the film is produced by Felix Chong Man-Keung and Ronald Wong, all veterans in Hong Kong cinema circles. Mak and Chong are best known for their co-directorial franchises, Infernal Affairs and Overheard.

Mak, whose father and elder brother are both police officers, says the inspiration of the film came from a cigarette smuggling case.

Thanks to a talk with some officials at Hong Kong Independent Commission Against Corruption a few years ago, he was able to expand his knowledge and shape the story of Integrity.Loading Those who complain about higher fuel prices also demand action against air pollution because their children get sick, Macron said, in response to early complaints about the tax. But his typically high-handed response enraged dissenters. In rural areas, outside the reach of light rail or Uber, it was seen as yet another slap in the face from a disdainful leader. Every month we end up 500 euros in the red, one woman from Lorraine in north-east France told AFP on the weekend. This violence, its legitimate. In mid-November they got organised on Facebook and started blocking roads across the country. The very first day saw 280,000 yellow vests on the nations streets.

A week later, a protest in Paris turned violent. At this stage the gilets jaunes were no longer alone, and the protests were becoming a wider revolt against Macrons policies and leadership style. One poll found two-thirds of the country supported the protesters. A demonstrator waves the French flag on a burning barricade on the Champs-Elysees Credit:AP This weekend was the third successive Saturday citizens march in Paris organised on social media. It began peacefully but quickly went out of control. Interior Minister Christophe Castaner claimed that professional rioters had organised the violence, hijacking the movement and exploiting it for their own ends.

Journalists on the ground said it was not as simple as that. AFP reporters observed genuine gilets jaunes in the heart of the action, wearing balaclavas, building the barricades against police. They also saw many experienced protesters from both the hard left and far right, eager to clash with police. France's President Emmanuel Macron, Interior Minister Christophe Castaner, centre right, and Paris police Prefect Michel Delpuech, right, arrive to visit firefighters and riot police officers the day after a demonstration, in Paris. Credit:AP They knew how to burn a barricade or a car, and when the police first tear gas they gave advice to those around them, telling them not to panic and not to run, AFP journalists reported. A number of news organisations also drew attention to the fact that a large amount of fake news  pictures of bloody faces taken from protests in Spain last year, videos from other unrelated protests  had been disseminated via social media in the lead up to the protests.

A police car burns after clashes between police and protesters, in Marseille, southern France, on Saturday. Credit:AP Saturday's riot featured anti-capitalist slogans and saw far-left graffiti (one scrawl on the Arc de Triomphe read topple the bourgeoisie). Members of far-right groups were also in the crowd, reportedly having organised on social media to join the fray. Police made almost 380 arrests on Saturday. The Paris prosecutor said many of them had come to fight police while claiming to be part of the gilets jaunes movement. Some gilets jaunes protesters told reporters they believed the violence would damage their cause. A worker about to clean graffiti saying " Macron resignation" on the Arc de Triomphe. Credit:AP

There were signs on Sunday that the government would toughen its line rather than compromise with the protest movement, which is demanding a reversal of the fuel tax hike and a rise in the minimum wage. A week ago, Macron had responded to the protests by promising talks with the demonstrators  though it was hard to work out who he was going to talk to, as the movement had no obvious leader. At crisis talks at the Elysee Palace on Sunday, Macron asked prime minister Eduoard Philippe to meet representatives of the demonstrators, along with other parliamentary party leaders. A woman and a burned out vehicle, near the Arc de Triomphe, in Paris, on Sunday, local time. Credit:AP But Macron also asked his Minister of the Interior to look at whether police procedures needed to be reviewed for the expected future protests, next weekend and beyond.

There were conflicting reports that they had discussed declaring a state of emergency. His political opponents are demanding Macron dissolve parliament and hold elections. For the first year of Emmanuel Macrons presidency, observers were surprised at the muted level of protests in a country, and a capital, where political protests are traditionally fierce. A burned out car and the slogan, "Babylon burns" in Paris on Sunday, local time. Credit:AP There was a sense the country was giving this populist centrist a chance to deliver on his promise to solve Frances problems with a clean break from the old political system.Berlin: An American university established a quarter-century ago to educate a new generation of leaders and scholars after communism's collapse in Central and Eastern Europe said on Monday it had been kicked out of its home in Hungary.

The ejection marked one of the surest signals to date of autocracy's return to the country, and the region, after decades of relative freedom. It is the first time a university has been forced out of an EU nation.

Central European University has long been considered among the world's finest graduate schools, attracting students from across the globe, and it is widely seen as the best in Hungary.

But the university, which was founded by Hungarian-American financier George Soros, had also been the target for nearly two years of a right-wing government that has systematically consolidated control and marginalised dissent.Noting that Sunday was the first night of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, he said, "We're celebrating the victory of light over darkness," adding that the light will always win out. "A true Hanukkah miracle," he said. "What a beautiful present they gave us for the holiday." Still, this latest blow to Netanyahu threatened to subvert his efforts to consolidate power and burnish his image as Israel's security czar and the country's indispensable, irreplaceable leader. If he remains in office next summer, he would overtake David Ben-Gurion, Israel's founding leader, as the country's longest serving prime minister. Israeli security forces take position during clashes with Palestinians after a demonstration against the arrest of members of Fatah in Jerusalem by the Israeli authorities, at Hawara checkpoint near the West Bank city of Nablus, on Sunday. Credit:AP After his defence minister resigned last month over the government's handling of the simmering conflict with the Palestinian territory of Gaza, Netanyahu deftly won a power struggle with some members of his coalition. He appealed directly to the public in a televised address, warning that any attempt to topple the government at such a complex time for national security would be irresponsible.

In the new case against him, Netanyahu is not accused of getting rich himself, but of enriching the country's biggest telecommunications company, Bezeq, at the public's expense and for the sake of his own image and that of his wife and family. Between 2012 and 2017, Netanyahu "intervened in a blatant and ongoing manner, and sometimes even daily," in coverage at Walla, a news website owned by Bezeq, police said. This ensured "flattering articles and pictures" were published and critical content about him and his family was removed. Bezeq telecom company's controlling shareholder Shaul Elovitch arrives at the magistrate court in Tel Aviv, Israel, in February, 2018. Elovitch is suspected of involvement in a scandal in which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promoted regulation worth hundreds of millions of dollars for Bezeq in exchange for favourable coverage in the Bezeq owned Walla News site. Credit:AP Police said Netanyahu and his associates sought to sway Walla's hiring of senior editors and reporters. In return, Netanyahu, who personally oversaw the communications ministry from 2014 to 2017, rewarded Bezeq with enormously lucrative concessions, police said. Those included approval of its merger with Yes, a satellite television company, despite the objections of lower-level ministry officials.

Police said they had seized about $US32 million from those involved during the investigation. Tzipi Livni, the leader of the opposition in the Israeli Parliament and a former justice minister, called for immediate elections to replace Netanyahu. "Bribery!" she wrote on Twitter. "Netanyahu has to go before he destroys the law enforcement authorities in order to save his own skin." Palestinian demonstrators run from tear gas fired by Israeli troops during clashes after a demonstration at Hawara checkpoint near the West Bank city of Nablus, on Sunday. Credit:AP Avi Gabbay, the leader of the centre-left Labor Party and a former chief executive of Bezeq from 2007 to 2013, called on Netanyahu to resign.

"A prime minister with so many corruption scandals surrounding him cannot continue," he said in a video. "A man motivated by such a sick obsession about what the media will say about him cannot lead Israel." But experts said a prime minister need not necessarily resign even if formally charged. Abraham Diskin, professor emeritus of political science at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, said the police recommendations were unlikely to change many minds: Netanyahu's detractors would be satisfied, while his supporters would see further proof that he is being persecuted. Diskin, echoing the prime minister, suggested that the police and news media were teaming up to blow the accusations out of proportion. "Which politician does not try to sway the media?" Diskin said, adding that the allegations still had to be proved in a court of law.

The case was complex, involving a host of other suspects and dozens of witnesses. Besides Netanyahu, police recommended Sunday that his wife, Sara, be charged with bribery, fraud and breach of trust, along with disruption of investigative and judicial proceedings. Police also urged the indictment of others on a variety of charges, including Shaul Elovitch, the controlling shareholder of Bezeq; his wife, Iris; their son, Or, an aide to his father and board member in some of their holdings; Stella Handler, chief executive of Bezeq; Amikam Shorer, a senior Bezeq officer; and Zeev Rubinstein, a businessman close to the Elovitch and Netanyahu families who is deputy chairman of the Israel Bonds corporation. Benjamin Netanyahu was already facing likely indictment in two other scandals. One case alleges that he accepted gifts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars in exchange for potentially valuable political favours. Another involves an accusation that he negotiated with the publisher of Yediot Ahronot, a leading newspaper, for favourable coverage in exchange for using his influence to curtail a rival paper, Israel Hayom. In that case, the alleged deal never came to fruition. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara attend ceremonies at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris in November. Credit:AP The attorney general, Avichai Mandelblit, once considered a Netanyahu loyalist, has indicated he was waiting for the completion of the investigation of the Bezeq case before making a decision on all three cases at once.Donald Trump's administration is, it goes without saying, deeply anti-science. In fact, it is anti-objective reality. But its control of the government remains limited; it didn't extend far enough to prevent the release of the latest National Climate Assessment, which details current and expected future impacts of global warming on the United States.

True, the report was released on the day of Thanksgiving, clearly in the hope it would get lost in the shuffle. The good news is that the ploy didn't work.

The assessment basically confirms, with a great deal of extra detail, what anyone following climate science already knew: Climate change poses a major threat to the US, and some of its adverse effects are already being felt. For example, the report, written before the disaster in California last month, highlights the growing risks of fire in the country's south-west; global warming, not failure to rake the leaves, is why the fires are getting ever bigger and more dangerous.

But the Trump administration and its allies in Congress will, of course, ignore this analysis. Denying climate change, no matter what the evidence, has become a core Republican principle. And it's worth trying to understand both how that happened and the sheer depravity involved in being a denialist at this point.Loading "Tattoo it on my body!" one Twitter user wrote about Obama's words. The uncharacteristic remark even appeared to catch Obama off-guard. Author and political commentator Toure Neblett tweeted that "everyone freaked out ... Michelle, too." Neblett added that Obama quickly apologised before saying, "I forgot where I was for a moment." "I thought we were at home, y'all," Obama said, according to Vanity Fair. "I was gettin' real comfortable up in here."

After reassuring the crowd she was "back now," Obama offered a censored version of her earlier statement, swapping the swear word out for "stuff," Vanity Fair reported. While Obama's accidental use of an expletive swiftly became all anyone could talk about, several people pointed out that her candid criticism of "leaning in" had much greater significance. "Thank you [Michelle Obama] for being so real about the pressures we face as working mothers and reminding us all that just being ourselves is more than good enough!" one person wrote on Twitter. "Leaning in" was first popularised in 2013 by Sandberg, the now-embattled Facebook executive, in her book titled, Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead. Sandberg, described in a review of the book as "a self-avowed feminist who wants to transform the role of women in the workplace," encouraged women to assert themselves at work and in their communities to avoid ending up in subordinate positions. The concept is linked to the ambitious idea that women, as long as they try, can be successful at home and at work.

Since its debut, the "lean in" philosophy has been met with mixed success. Sandberg's book sold more than 4 million copies worldwide and occupied a spot on the New York Times bestseller list for more than a year. It spawned a nonprofit bearing the same name founded by Sandberg and hundreds of "Lean In" circles, groups of women who meet regularly to discuss Sandberg's advice. The circles have been touted as "one of the few places in the world where women can be overtly, unapologetically ambitious," according to the New York Times. However, many argue that "leaning in" can place too much pressure on women to take action instead of pushing for workplaces to change. Connie Schultz wrote in the 2013 Washington Post review that Sandberg's book is "full of good intentions," but added that the advice "sounds like a prescription for how to lean in until you collapse from exhaustion."

Loading In a 2017 interview with USA Today, four years after "Lean In" first published, Sandberg said that even though women were galvanised, she was not seeing a change in business and politics. "In terms of women in leadership roles, we are not better off," she said, noting that women occupied less than 6 per cent of Fortune 500 CEO jobs and their global equivalents, and the number of countries run by women had decreased. She continued: "Overall, we are not seeing a major increase in female leadership in any industry or in any government in the world, and I think that's a shame." Support for "leaning in" has been further hampered by the #MeToo movement, wrote Sarah Seltzer in a December 2017 piece for the Nation.

#MeToo stories have "revealed a staggering, industry-spanning problem with workplace misogyny," Seltzer wrote, adding that telling women, not workplaces, to change "has suffered what may amount to a death blow this year." "It's become glaringly clear in these past weeks that, far from merely balancing work, life, and gendered expectations, women working in industries from glamorous-seeming Hollywood to crowded restaurant kitchens have been navigating a brutal minefield of harassment, abuse, and inappropriate behaviour - not to mention plain old sexism and bullying - in order simply to keep their jobs, never mind advance in their careers," she wrote. More recently, "leaning in" and Sandberg's leadership were placed under additional scrutiny after controversy erupted around Facebook and Russian interference in the 2016 election. "Sandberg's failure at Facebook exposes an emptiness at the heart of the argument that made her famous," wrote Post columnist Molly Roberts, following a November New York Times report that Sandberg and other Facebook executives had tried to cover up Russians using the site to promote propaganda. On social media, Obama's words were met with widespread approval.Trump even distinguished himself in Buenos Aires by making appropriate comments on the death of George H.W. Bush rather than continuing his feud with the Bush family. With Trump, you can never take such human niceties for granted. And if he had been as petty and mean-spirited as he was after John McCain's death, it would have been a big news story. So a disaster averted.

But at least Trump did not have any cringeworthy moments - such as when he left the Group of 7 meeting in Quebec in June early and refused to sign the communique, or when he acted like a lackey toward Russian President Vladimir Putin in Helsinki in July.

Trump's ballyhooed deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping was little more than an agreement to keep talking. Trump committed not to increase tariffs on China for 90 days, and Xi committed to buy more US products - but with no specific numerical targets. This is no more binding than North Korea's promise to denuclearise somehow, someday. The two countries' post-summit statements showed that they could not even agree on what they had agreed on. China's statement, for example, did not mention a 90-day negotiating.

Grading on the steep curve by which he is judged, President Donald Trump may have had his most successful international outing at the Group of 20 summit that concluded on Saturday in Buenos Aires. But that's not because he accomplished anything significant. He didn't. It was simply because he did not commit a massive gaffe.

But not much accomplished either. If Trump took any action to rally his fellow democratic leaders to confront the looming threat of China or Russia, or to hold Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to account for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, there was no indication of it. Two months have passed since Khashoggi's killing at the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul and a week since Russia's illegal seizure of Ukrainian vessels in the Kerch Strait, and the perpetrators of those crimes still have not paid any price for them.

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The iconic image from the G20 showed Mohammed bin Salman and Putin giving each other high fives, laughing and smiling. It reminded me of the classic David Low cartoon after the Nazi-Soviet pact in 1939 showing Hitler and Stalin curtsying to each other, with Hitler saying, "The scum of the earth, I believe," and Stalin replying, "The bloody assassin of the workers, I presume?" Mohammed bin Salman and Putin are no Hitler or Stalin, but they do have fresh blood on their hands - including that of the countless victims of Saudi bombing in Yemen and Russian bombing in Syria - and they are getting away with their crimes because Trump won't do anything to hold them to account.

Trump's refusal to meet with Putin officially at the G20 is hardly the kind of action that will get the Russian strongman's attention. (They instead saw each other at dinner.) Rather, it signals American weakness that will encourage Putin to transgress further. Likewise, denying overwhelming evidence of Mohammed bin Salman's complicity in Khashoggi's murder signals that Trump isn't tough enough to hold his ally to account.

The Saudi crown prince was thumbing his nose at the United States with his chumminess toward Putin and his insistence, despite US entreaties, to continue exploring the purchase of an S-400 air-defense system from Russia. He was also undercutting one of the chief rationales that Trump offers for his obsequiousness to Mohammed - the Saudis' opposition to Iran - given that Russia is Iran's chief ally. Putin, for his part, mocked Trump by saying that "two little boats gifted to Ukraine by the US couldn't even get through the Kerch Strait." (The ships reportedly weren't actually provided by the United States.) The world's tyrants are laughing at the United States - and Trump is letting them get away with it.New York: When asked which aspects of Donald Trump's presidency they would like to change, Trump's most ardent supporters usually respond with the same answer: they wish he'd lay off the tweeting.

Michael Cohen, President Donald Trump's former attorney. Credit:AP

From threatening North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to accusing a prominent TV host of having a facelift, Trump uses social media in an unfiltered, impulsive way that no other president has before - or likely will ever again.

Even those who have grown numb to Trump's social media musings were stunned on Monday morning by a string of tweets that legal experts said crossed the Rubicon from outlandish to illegal.

Among those accusing Trump of "witness tampering" via Twitter - a crime punishable by up to 20 years in prison - was George Conway, a prominent Republican lawyer and the husband of top Trump adviser Kellyanne Conway.Pond Island:--- The Supervisory Board of Directors (SBOD), St. Maarten Telecommunication Holding Company N.V. (SMTHC NV) and TelEm Group Management are continuing to take steps toward understanding each others respective roles and responsibilities under the guidance of Corporate Governance compliance expert Prof. Frank Kunneman, Managing Partner of VanEpps Kunneman VanDorne.

During the training, Prof. Kunneman made use of actual case studies to bring home various Corporate Governance compliance principles, noting how Board and Management can unintentionally misinterpret their respective roles, with both convinced that each is acting in the best interest of the entity they serve.

An introductory Corporate Governance compliance training was provided to the TelEm Group management team of CEO, Mr. Kendall Dupersoy, and the Supervisory Board of Directors led by Chairman, Mr. John A. Richardson, in May this year in a three-day session. This was followed up last week with a two-day session including live examples of Corporate Governance failure in action.

Mr. Richardson said he was very pleased that two new members of the SBOD, Attorney Ms. Dagmar Daal, and businessman Mr. Earl Wyatt could join their new board colleagues in the Corporate Governance compliance sessions so that they too can fully understand their roles as new SBOD members.

With the high level of training that Prof. Kunneman gives, a solid foundation is being laid to address issues that we as a board and management have to deal with on a daily basis, including issues such as integrity, ethics, transparency and accountability through a better understanding of the law, Book 2 Civil Code of St. Maarten, the Corporate Governance Ordinance and the Articles of Incorporation of the relevant government-owned company, said Mr. Richardson.

He said the training is geared towards understanding the role of Management and that of the Supervisory Board of Directors, legally speaking, but it also addresses the many layers of what led to court cases in Curacao, Aruba, Bonaire and St. Maarten with situations that took place on these islands being addressed and expounded upon.

Like in all walks of life, the legislation follows the reality/developments and in these cases, it is no different, or the law was there but there was a great lack of compliance. For some time now our way of life as we know it has come under extreme scrutiny. This is evident from the many court cases that are ongoing or have culminated in verdicts. From Mr. Kunneman we have learned that there is, however, a silver lining coming through, said the SBOD Chairman.

He said stakeholders should be aware that the Supervisory Board of TelEm Group and the Management are taking their Corporate Governance compliance responsibilities very seriously and that management and board continue to undertake efforts to be corporate responsible.

TelEm Group CEO Mr. Dupersoy took the opportunity on behalf of management also to welcome the training of Professor Kunneman, noting that the sessions were very interactive and served as a timely reminder to both board and management of their respective roles in the companys interest.

As a company we have been very proud of our high record of 95 to 98% Corporate Governance Compliance and with training such as this, at the level it was given, we are showing that we intend to maintain that high standard, said Mr. Dupersoy.U.S. President Donald Trump said late Saturday that he would quickly withdraw the United States from the 24-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), in an attempt to force Congress to approve a revised version of the pact.

"I will be formally terminating NAFTA shortly," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One en route from the Group of Twenty (G20) summit in Argentina, according to a White House press release.

"Congress will have a choice of approving the USMCA, which is a phenomenal deal, much, much better than NAFTA," said Trump, who has repeatedly threatened to pull out of NAFTA entirely.

The U.S. president, along with Canadian and Mexican leaders, signed the new deal, the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), on Friday after more than a year of intense negotiations.

Hailing the deal as "modern and balanced," the president said at the signing ceremony that it has been "well-reviewed" and he doesn't expect to have much problem in Congress.

The new deal has, however, generated a groundswell of opposition from lawmakers especially the Democrats, who will take control of the House in January, making a smooth passage unlikely.

"It's disappointing but not surprising" that the U.S. president would try to force Congress to reinstate the status quo of #NAFTA, instead of working constructively with Congress to improve his proposed agreement, Henry Connelly, a spokesman for House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, said on Twitter Sunday morning.

Pelosi, who is expected to take the role of House Speaker in January, has repeatedly expressed deep concerns over the deal's enforceability.

"We are waiting to see enforcement provisions relating to workers and the environment," Pelosi said Friday in a statement, describing the deal as a "work in progress." The USMCA requires at least 40 percent of car production to come from factories with an average wage of 16 U.S. dollars per hour.

"I think we should see if we can get it passed first," Republican Senator John Barrasso said on NBC News' Meet the Press Sunday. "I want to see how many Democratic votes come on board for this."

U.S. Congress can suggest small changes to be made to the legislation, and many lawmakers have been waiting for an economic impact study from the U.S. International Trade Commission before making their final decision. The commission has up to 105 days, or by mid-March to complete a report.

In a hearing held mid-November, John Bozzella, president of the Association of Global Automakers, said the new agreement could hurt the industry. The USMCA would raise the requirement for North American content in cars to a whopping 75 percent from 62.5 percent, among other things. Bozzella said automakers will need to invest in "elaborate processes" to ensure compliance with such rules, and suppliers will have to establish similar "costly processes."

Meanwhile, a number of lawmakers and business groups are trying to push for the removal of U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada and Mexico, which have inflicted harm upon American manufacturers and consumers, raising costs for a wide array of industries.

"While there's a lot to like in this new agreement, I'm disappointed that the Section 232 tariffs on Canada and Mexico still remain in place," Republican Senator Rob Portman said in a statement on Friday.

Business Roundtable, an influential association of leading U.S. companies' executives, also called for a "prompt resolution" of the tariff issue between all three countries while reviewing the final text of the new trade agreement.SpaceX has made history yet again.

A Falcon 9 rocket with a twice-flown first stage lifted off from California's Vandenberg Air Force Base today (Dec. 3) at 1:31 p.m. EST (1831 GMT; 10:31 a.m. local California time), carrying 64 tiny satellites to orbit.

SpaceX has re-flown used first stages many times, but today's launch marked the first time a booster had ever propelled payloads to orbit on three separate occasions. The success is therefore an important milestone for SpaceX, which aims to fly all its vehicles repeatedly and frequently. Such rapid reuse could slash the cost of spaceflight, opening the heavens to exploration, company founder and CEO Elon Musk has said. [Launch Photos: SpaceX Falcon 9 Lofts 64 Satellites (and Lands) on Historic 3rd Flight]

And this particular first stage could conceivably fly yet again. The booster stuck its landing today, touching down softly about 8 minutes after liftoff on the SpaceX drone ship "Just Read the Instructions," which was stationed in the Pacific Ocean.

SpaceX also attempted to catch the rocket's payload fairing  the protective nose cone that surrounds satellites during launch  today with its net-equipped boat, Mr. Steven. (Falcon 9 fairings fall back to Earth in two pieces, each under parachute.) The attempt was unsuccessful, as Mr. Steven's several prior tries have also been. But SpaceX still plans to reuse the fairing, which cost about $6 million to manufacture, Musk said via Twitter today.

"Falcon fairing halves missed the net, but touched down softly in the water. Mr. Steven is picking them up. Plan is to dry them out & launch again. Nothing wrong with a little swim," Musk tweeted.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launches from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California on Dec. 3, 2018, carrying 64 satellites to orbit on the SSO-A: Smallsat Express mission. (Image credit: SpaceX)

Today's mission, called "SSO-A: SmallSat Express," set three other records as well, as noted by Florida Today's Emre Kelly. For example, the Falcon 9 first stage became the first booster to lift off from all three currently operational SpaceX orbital launch sites. The first stage helped launched Bangladesh's Bangabandhu Satellite-1 from Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center (KSC) this past May, and it lofted the Merah Putih spacecraft from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in August. (KSC and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station are next-door neighbors on Florida's Space Coast.)

SSO-A, which was organized by the Seattle-based company Spaceflight, was also SpaceX's 19th successful orbital launch of 2018. The company's previous high for a single year was 18, set last year.

And then there are those 64 satellites  the most spacecraft ever launched to orbit atop a single rocket from American soil. (The international record is 104, set in February 2017 by India's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, or PSLV.)

If all goes according to plan, all 64 spacecraft will separate from the Falcon 9's second stage less than 45 minutes after today's liftoff (though 60 will still be aboard two Spaceflight "free flyers," from which they will deploy over the next four hours). These new denizens of Earth orbit are a diverse and interesting lot. One of the cubesats, called Enoch, carries a golden "canopic jar" containing a bust of Robert H. Lawrence Jr., the first African-American astronaut. (He never made it to space, dying tragically in a training-flight accident in December 1967 at age 32.)

Then there's another art project, known as Orbital Reflector. The satellite will deploy a shiny, self-inflating sculpture designed to catch the sun and draw skyward the eyes of millions of people down here on Earth. Orbital Reflector is a temporary installation; it will get dragged back into Earth's atmosphere and burn up within a few weeks, project team members have said.

Also aboard is the Elysium Star 2 cubesat, which is owned by the San Francisco-based startup Elysium Space. Elysium Star 2 is carrying the cremated remains of customers who paid (or whose friends or family paid) $2,490 for a "shooting star memorial"  basically, the chance for bits of yourself to be turned into meteors streaking across the sky. If Elysium Star 2 works as planned, it will be Elysium Space's first successful orbital mission.

There are also more "traditional" cubesats, including three more "Dove" Earth-observing craft built by the prolific San Francisco company Planet. Sixteen Doves also launched last week aboard a PSLV, which lofted a total of 31 satellites.

The 64 SSO-A satellites consist of 49 cubesats and 15 "microsats," according to a Spaceflight mission description. More than two dozen of these spacecraft were provided by international organizations, which together involved a total of 17 countries, Spaceflight representatives said.

Many of the payloads were developed by university groups, and a few were even built by high-school teams.

Today's launch had been slated for mid-November, but it was delayed several times so SpaceX could perform additional checks on the rocket, and to wait for high winds over Vandenberg to die down.

This story was updated at 2:55 p.m. EST to include information about Mr. Steven's attempt to capture the Falcon 9's falling payload fairing today.

Mike Wall's book about the search for alien life, "Out There" (Grand Central Publishing, 2018; illustrated by Karl Tate) is out now. Follow him on Twitter @michaeldwall. Follow us @Spacedotcom or Facebook. Originally published on Space.com.Editor's note for Dec. 3: OSIRIS-REx has successfully arrived at the asteroid Bennu and is starting scientific operations.

NASA will arrive at an asteroid called Bennu today (Dec. 3), kicking the space agency's OSIRIS-REx asteroid sample-return mission into full gear.

OSIRIS-REx will arrive at Bennu at about 12 p.m. EST (1700 GMT) and you can watch it live here, courtesy of NASA, beginning at 11:45 a.m. EST (1645 GMT). A mission program will precede the event at 11:15 a.m. EST (1615 GMT).

But where is that asteroid and its visiting spacecraft, which is now two years into its journey? Although it's easy to assume that an asteroid mission would target the asteroid belt, Bennu isn't tucked in this rocky region between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter.

Instead, Bennu's orbit waltzes between those of Earth and of Mars, averaging around 100 million miles (160 million kilometers) away from the sun. That makes it a near-Earth asteroid, like the one Japan's Hayabusa-2 mission is currently studying.

The asteroid Bennu, as seen by NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft from a distance of about 205 miles, on Oct. 29, 2018. (Image credit: NASA/Goddard/University of Arizona)

(NASA has visited the asteroid belt proper before, however. The agency's most exhaustive visit was made by the Dawn spacecraft, which ended its mission earlier this year. Before the end of its effort, Dawn studied two of the largest objects in the asteroid belt: Vesta and the dwarf planet Ceres.)

But while Bennu isn't in the asteroid belt now, scientists think that it was a long time ago. Current theories suggest that the diamond-shaped space rock was once part of a much larger asteroid, one perhaps the size of Connecticut. That space rock met its end sometime between 700 million and 2 billion years ago during a giant collision, breaking into Bennu and other pieces. Since the impact, Bennu seems to have gradually spiralled closer to the sun.

During OSIRIS-REx's stay at Bennu, scientists are hoping to learn more about the earliest days of the solar system, because asteroids are the rubble left behind as planets formed. In particular, Bennu is a rare subset of asteroid, called a B-type asteroid, which means scientists suspect there should be organic compounds and wet clays on it. That means Bennu may resemble what Earth looked like when life began here  making this asteroid an incredibly compelling science target.

And all that excitement begins today. OSIRIS-REx will cautiously approach its target before slipping into orbit for more than two years of scientific observations. The spacecraft will also carefully collect a sample of the asteroid. Then, in March 2021, the probe will make its way back to Earth in order to deposit that sample in terrestrial labs.

Visit Space.com today for full coverage of OSIRIS-REx's arrival at Bennu.

Email Meghan Bartels at mbartels@space.com or follow her @meghanbartels. Follow us @Spacedotcom and Facebook. Original article on Space.com.BAIKONUR COSMODROME, Kazakhstan  With a roar that pierced the air of the subfreezing desert here, a Russian Soyuz rocket carrying a new crew for the International Space Station made a flawless sunset launch into orbit today (Dec. 3). It was the first crewed Soyuz launch since a dramatic abort in October forced an emergency landing for two space travelers.

Hundreds of spectators and media representatives gathered on cold metal stands to watch the launch here at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, bundling up cameras and bodies against the bone-chilling cold. But the weather did not dampen the cheers of the crowd as the Soyuz spacecraft  powered by a Soyuz rocket  lifted off from this former Cold War complex carrying three new crewmembers for the station's Expedition 58 crew.

It was a "textbook launch and insertion into orbit," NASA spokesperson Gary Johnson said during launch commentary. "We had a great liftoff today," he added. [See more launch day photos of the Expedition 58 crew]

A Russian Soyuz rocket carrying three members of the Expedition 58 crew launches toward the International Space Station from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on Dec. 3, 2018, marking the first crewed Soyuz launch since a dramatic abort on Oct. 11 for the Russian space agency Roscosmos. (Image credit: NASA TV)

Riding on board were veteran Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, who has accumulated more than 533 days in space since 2008 on Expeditions 17, 30/31 and 44/45; and rookie astronauts Anne McClain of NASA and David Saint-Jacques of Canada.

Now, the crew is racing to the space station, a 6-hour journey in total, to catch up to the orbiting complex. The trio is scheduled to dock with the space station at 12:36 p.m. EST (1736 GMT), and the hatch will open at around 2:35 p.m. EST (1935 GMT). Both of those milestones will be broadcast live, with coverage beginning about 50 minutes before the event; you can watch it live on Space.com, courtesy of NASA TV, or on the agency's website.

The arriving astronauts will be greeted by three crewmembers who have been at the space station since June 8: European astronaut Alexander Gerst, NASA astronaut Serena Aunon-Chancellor and Russian cosmonaut Sergey Prokopyev. Gerst was able to see the Soyuz MS-11 spacecraft from the station as the spacecraft launched into orbit, Johnson said. At the time, the space station was flying about 252 miles above northeastern China.

It's been a challenging few months for the crew on board the space station. After a perfect launch on June 6, a tiny air leak on their Soyuz spacecraft was discovered in late August. Although it never posed a threat to the astronauts on board and was quickly plugged, the implications for astronaut safety were troubling, and an investigation was launched. (The leak is in a part of the Soyuz module that does not survive re-entry and it will not interfere with the crew's journey home.)

Then, on Oct. 11, as Gerst was filming the space station's view of the next crew launch, something else went wrong. A few minutes after liftoff, a deformed sensor in the Soyuz rocket forced an abort and a quick return to Earth for those two crewmembers. (The astronauts landed unharmed about 30 minutes after the failure.)

For a few weeks, concerns about the safety of the Soyuz system suggested that the space station might need to be abandoned for the first time since 2000. However, Roscosmos concluded its investigation quickly and ended up moving forward the launch of Expedition 58 by three weeks, to give time for the arriving and departing crews to overlap before Gerst's crew departs for Earth on schedule.

The Expedition 58 crew bids farewell to Earth as they wave to well-wishers at the base of their Soyuz rocket. From top, the crew is: Flight Engineer David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), top, Flight Engineer Anne McClain of NASA, center, and Soyuz Commander Oleg Kononenko of Roscosmos. (Image credit: NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

With only three crewmembers working on the space station, science experiments are taking second seat to maintenance activities. Saint-Jacques told reporters in October that he also expects he will not have the chance to do a spacewalk, due to safety concerns; the Canadian Space Agency previously said they hoped Saint-Jacques would have the chance to do one.

Today's launch marks the first time a Canadian has flown into space since the wild public-relations success of Chris Hadfield, who commanded the ISS in 2013 and ran a scientifically productive mission while playing guitar, chatting with celebrities and accumulating hundreds of thousands of followers on Twitter. The CSA acknowledged that Hadfield's success was likely unique, but pointed out that Saint-Jacques has communication skills of his own that he can leverage in space such as an ability to crack jokes on the spot in at least two languages, English and French  he speaks five.

There is a scarcity of Canadian astronauts because the country's contributions to the space station are budgetarily limited, although the robotics the country has produced are crucial to the proper functioning of the space station. At current launch rates, this means Canada gets to send an astronaut to the space station about twice a decade.

But once Kononenko, McClain and Saint-Jacques arrive at the orbiting laboratory, they won't have much leisure time  the space station crew has a packed schedule for the next couple weeks. Tomorrow (Dec. 4), a SpaceX Dragon capsule loaded with tons of supplies will blast off, arriving on Dec. 6. On Dec. 11, Kononenko and his Russian colleague Prokopyev will perform a spacewalk, scheduled to last about 6 hours. And on Dec. 19, Gerst, Aunon-Chancellor and Prokopyev will pack up and head for home, leaving the new crew in their stead.

Follow us on Twitter @Spacedotcom and on Facebook. Original article on Space.com.Editor's note: SpaceX has successfully launched its Falcon 9 Block 5 for the third time. Read our full story: SpaceX Rocket Makes Historic 3rd Launch Into Space with 64 Satellites On Board

SpaceX will launch and land a reusable Falcon 9 rocket booster for the third time today (Dec. 3), and you can watch all the action live online!

In what will be the largest ride-share mission in U.S. history, the "Block 5" Falcon 9 rocket will loft 64 small satellites into orbit after lifting off from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Liftoff is scheduled for 1:32 p.m. EST (10:32 a.m. PST; 1832 GMT). A few minutes later, the booster will attempt its third landing on SpaceX's Just Read The Instructions drone ship in the Pacific Ocean.

You can watch a live webcast of the liftoff and landing here on Space.com, courtesy of SpaceX. The webcast will begin approximately 15 minutes before liftoff. [SpaceX's 1st 'Block 5' Falcon 9 Rocket: The Launch Photos]

What's on board

The mission, titled "SSO-A: Smallsat Express," will carry 64 small satellites into low-Earth orbit. Spaceflight Industries, a Seattle-based aerospace company and mission management provider, organized the ride-share mission by bringing together payloads from 34 commercial and government organizations from around the world. SSO-A will be Spaceflight's first ride-share mission and the largest ride-share mission to launch on a U.S. rocket, the company said in a mission description.

Of the 64 small satellites on board, 49 are cubesats, or tiny, 4-inch (10 centimeter) cubes weighing up to 2.9 lbs. (1.3 kilograms). "Among the spacecraft onboard, 23 are from universities, 19 are imaging satellites, 23 are technology demonstrations, two are art exhibits, and one is from a high school," Spaceflight officials said.

One of the more eyebrow-raising payloads is the Elysium Star 2 memorial spacecraft, which contains cremated human remains that will be dispersed in space as part of a "shooting star memorial," a service offered by the San Francisco-based startup Elysium Space.

Of the 64 satellites on board the SSO-A ride-share mission, 49 of them are cubesats. This illustration shows how these cubesats will be deployed in low-Earth orbit. (Image credit: Spaceflight)

Another spacecraft called Enoch, provided by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, allegedly contains the "soul" of Robert Henry Lawrence Jr., the first African-American astronaut. A 24-karat gold canopic jar encases a bust of the late astronaut, and the vessel has been blessed at a Shinto shrine in Japan and "recognized as a container for Lawrence's soul," IEEE Spectrum reported.

Another interesting art project on board is a spacecraft called Orbital Reflector that is designed to be visible to people on Earth. Once the cubesat deploys, it will open up to allow a shiny, self-inflating sculpture to unfurl. Skywatchers can spot the sculpture after sunset and before sunrise for about three weeks before it deorbits and burns up in the atmosphere. The fully inflated balloon measures about 100 feet (30 meters) long and is shaped like an elongated diamond.

The Orbital Reflector sounds a lot like Rocket Lab's "Humanity Star," a big disco-ball-shaped satellite launched in January and spent about nine months glowing in the night sky, inspiring skywatchers while irking some astronomers.

While this small-satellite extravaganza will be historic for both Spaceflight and SpaceX, some have expressed concern that these payloads will add to the growing space-debris problem. Not only will the mission send an enormous batch of satellites into orbit, but the payload dispensers that will deploy the satellites "are going to be released from the Falcon 9 with no attitude control or attitude determination," T.S. Kelso of CelesTrak, which tracks objects in Earth's orbit, told Space.com columnist Leonard David.

"I think this is not only irresponsible from a safety-of-flight perspective, but it jeopardizes the time and resources of many of the small operators who may never even hear from their satellites," Kelso added.

A milestone for SpaceX

After launching and landing more than 30 Falcon 9 rockets  and 17 missions on pre-flown boosters  SpaceX aims to make history today by reusing a rocket a second time, making this the first Falcon 9 rocket to fly on three different missions.

The launch vehicle for today's SSO-A mission is the first-ever "Block 5" variant of the Falcon 9. It completed its maiden voyage on May 11, when it launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida with the Bangabandhu-1 communications satellite for the government of Bangladesh. After delivering Bangabandhu-1 into orbit, the booster returned to Earth to stick an upright landing on a robotic drone ship named Of Course I Still Love You, which was stationed 400 miles (630 kilometers) off Florida's space coast in the Atlantic Ocean.

For its second mission on Aug. 7, the rocket launched an Indonesian telecommunications satellite called Merah Putih into orbit. It lifted off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida and again nailed a landing on the same drone ship as before.

Now, the rocket will be launching from the West Coast for the first time, which means that it won't be landing on the same drone ship. Instead, it will touch down on SpaceX's West Coast drone ship, Just Read The Instructions.

Email Hanneke Weitering at hweitering@space.com or follow her @hannekescience. Follow us on Twitter @Spacedotcom and on Facebook. Original article on Space.com.Zhang Ruimin, chairman of the Board and CEO of Haier Group, was the only Chinese entrepreneur invited to attend the Global Peter Drucker Forum in Vienna, Austria on Nov. 30, 2018. This is the 2nd time Zhang has been invited to the Drucker Forum, which management expert Charles Handy has referred to as "the birth place of business change."

Zhang Ruimin, chairman of the Board and CEO of Haier Group, delivers a speech at the Global Peter Drucker Forum in Vienna on Nov. 30. [Photo courtesy of Haier]

In his speech, titled "Rendanheyi  Maximizing Everyone's Value," Zhang explained how the Rendanheyi Model can disrupt traditional bureaucracy models by implementing an IOT mindset. This is achieved by making changes to people, organization systems and compensation mechanisms, and turning the organization into a Three-Selves organization. In this way, employees are inspired to be innovative and instilled with entrepreneur vitality, bringing about the alignment of employee value and user value. His speech also explained how Zhang Ruimin transformed Haier into an open entrepreneur ecosystem through the innovative Rendanheyi Model, and built a platform where every person has the opportunity to be an entrepreneur, making Peter Drucker's vision of "Every person is his own CEO" a reality.

This year, the forum focuses on the theme of "Management, in People's Dimension" to explore whether leaders in the 21st century should be adept at understanding people-related management techniques just as they do with the latest scientific discoveries. These days, IOT is no longer just a topic of scientists and researchers, but is closely connected to everyone's work and life. Yet, in this trend, most enterprises focus more on technological reform and innovation with little regard for the value of people involved in this process.

Zhang's speech triggered a spirited discussion among experts and entrepreneurs at the forum. Members of the board of directors from Germany's Bosch expressed admiration for the innovation and reform at Haier, commenting that "Haier sets up a model for us to learn." Julia Wang, dean of Drucker School of Management (Hong Kong), said she believes the Rendanheyi Model can be applied not only to business management, but also to other social organizations. Stuart Crainer, author of "The Management Century" and co-founder of Thinkers50, said the successful practices of the model are producing greater impacts on Europe and the world at large.

In his book "A Business Reformation: Lighting the Flame," Charles Handy pointed out that while the era calls for business reform, people need to reconsider the organization and figure out how to keep integrity of human value within corporations. He said, "This will be a reform, an unpopular reform." Then who will light the flame of this global reform?





Zhang Ruimin, chairman of the Board and CEO of Haier Group, is the only Chinese entrepreneur invited to attend the Global Peter Drucker Forum in Vienna, Austria on Nov. 30. [Photo courtesy of Haier]

As a master in integrating eastern and western management thinking, Zhang Ruimin proposed the Rendanheyi Model back in 2005, and started the great transformation of the company for the age of the internet. The rigid hierarchy in the organization was thoroughly destructed, and the company became a networked organization. On Haier's platform, a great number of microenterprises were created, which were self-employed, self-motivated and self-organized. So far, there are over 200 entrepreneur-microenterprises on Haier's platform, among which 23 have been evaluated at over 100 million yuan, and 33 have received financing. Haier's open entrepreneur platform Haichuanghui established 24 incubators in 9 countries, attracting over 3000 registered projects, including 300 incubator projects, with a total evaluation of over 30 billion yuan.

During his speech, Zhang Ruimin also announced plans for the Vanguard Company alongside world-renowned management expert Gary Hamel. As a witness to and supporter of Haier's reform, Gary Hamel co-authored "The End of Bureaucracy" with Michelle Zanini. The piece served as a cover article for the Harvard Business Review, a leading management publication, and prominently featured Haier's management reform as an example. This time, Gary Hamel will join Haier, the company that he believes to be "the best case study for busting bureaucracy," in launching the Vanguard Company forum, where case studies like Haier's will be researched and studied. The goal of this forum is to inspire great changes in management organization, speed up management innovation, and build an organizational form that fundamentally suits the future of humanity.

After listening to Zhang Ruimin's speech, the official social media of the European Institute of Business Administration (INSEAD) said that it believed the Rendanheyi Model to be a key management innovation of the 4th Industrial Revolution. The Executive Dean of Education at INSEAD pointed out that the Chinese management model would be studied by western countries as Japanese models had been before. This echoes Charles Handy's comments from earlier. In this way, the Vanguard Company helps serve as fuel for the fire of management change.

This year, the forum was held at the Hofburg Imperial Palace in Vienna. This 700-year-old palace was where Beethoven's Eighth Symphony was played for the first time, and today it is where the horn is sounded for the Global Management Enlightenment Movement.There will be 36,000 worms heading to space Dec. 4  and, if all goes well, 2 million to 3 million will come back down.

The worms, largely apportioned in pouches of 5,000, will reproduce on the International Space Station as part of a study on how muscles are affected by spaceflight. Their ride is SpaceX's next cargo launch to the station CRS-16, lifting off Dec. 4 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 1:38 p.m. EST (1838 GMT). The spacecraft which will also carry tree-seeking lasers, a liquid-methane fueling station, ingredients for "perfect crystals" and much more.

SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft, riding on a Falcon 9 rocket, will carry more than 5,600 lbs. (2,500 kilograms) of tools, supplies and equipment to the space station crew, including more than 2,200 lbs. (1,000 kg) of science investigations. You can watch it live here on Space.com, courtesy of NASA TV.

A "Worms in Space" study launching to the International Space Station Dec. 4 will carry 36,000 of the above, C. elegans. (Image credit: ESA)

The multitudes of worms in pouches  a millimeter-long variety called C. elegans  will aid scientists hoping to learn how to decrease the loss of muscle mass brought on by living in microgravity. Some will have changes made to the genes scientists think might impact muscle mass, and others will be exposed to drugs that can affect the molecular causes of muscle mass loss.

"What we're doing in this study is, for the first time  rather than just seeing them change, we're actually going to target them with interventions and see whether we can stop them happening, and whether stopping them happening makes muscle healthier in space," Timothy Etheridge, a researcher at the University of Exeter in the U.K. and principal investigator for the "Worms in Space" mission, said during a news conference Wednesday (Nov. 28). "They're a great model for using to study human changes, even though they're just a 1-mm-long worm; they're excellent because we can target them and intervene in them in lots of different ways, but also at a genetic level, they're actually up to 80 percent similar to human beings."

"Particularly for this experiment, their muscles are both structurally and functionally extremely similar to people, so even more so when we're talking about understanding muscle changes, worms are a very good model," he added.

The worms will be put in an incubator to live for about six days to have babies and grow aboard the space station, Etheridge said  likely bringing the total to 2 million to 3 million, he told Space.com in an email. Then they'll be frozen and return to Earth on a departing cargo ship for analysis. (The worms can survive freezing; some will likely be revived for further study.)

These interventions, if effective, could point the way to protecting astronauts on long-distance and long-duration journeys.

The cryogen servicing tool that's part of Robotic Refueling Mission-3, flying to the International Space Station Dec. 4. (Image credit: NASA)

To fly on those journeys, astronauts might have to someday harvest fuel from the surface of the moon or Mars  likely in the form of cryogenic fluids like hydrogen, oxygen or methane with a very low boiling point. A new robotic refueling mission traveling in the Dragon's unpressurized trunk, called Robotic Refueling Mission-3, will practice transferring and storing liquid methane in space for the first time.

"If your goal is to drive across country, you're not going to get there on just a tank of gas," Hsiao Smith, deputy director of the Satellite Servicing Projects Division at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, said during the conference. "Spacecraft today are limited to the fuel they carry on board. In order to further space exploration, refueling spacecraft is a necessity."

At some point after the Dragon spacecraft reaches the space station and is berthed to its side, the station's 11-foot robotic arm will unload the module and use a suite of three tools to connect a tank full of liquid methane to an empty tank and transfer 42 liters of fluid fluid while monitoring the process. After that, the new tank will store the methane for six months without any material boiling off.

"The robotic tools and vision system demonstrated by [the mission] for refueling missions could also be used for satellites in commerce, navigation or science, benefiting us right here on Earth," Hsiao said. "Not bad for a module that is the size of a washing machine."

This instrument to measure and map Earth's tropical and temperate forests in 3D using Lidar, called GEDI, will fly to the International Space Station Dec. 4. (Image credit: NASA)

Another experiment traveling in Dragon's trunk is the tree-surveying GEDI, short for Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation. It will blast three near-infrared lasers, each firing 242 times per second, to measure the heights and densities of Earth's forests, mapping the canopy's structures. The work can help researchers estimate how much carbon is stored within Earth's forests. By the end of the mission, the spacecraft will have made about 10 billion measurements of forest canopy height  and by measuring how much of each burst bounces back or penetrates, and how long it takes to return, they can learn about the canopy's makeup. The laser bursts can measure tree height to within 3 feet (1 meter).

"As far as we know, this is the first time anybody in space has fired so many lasers at the same time at such high power at such high pulse rates, and [it] represents a huge development and advance in this type of technology," Ralph Dubayah, a researcher at the Joint Global Carbon Cycle Center in Maryland and principal investigator on GEDI, said during the conference.

Besides helping them to understand carbon distribution, the observations will also tell scientists about Earth's topography, and understanding the canopy structures can help researchers estimate how fires would spread through forests, Dubayah said. [Pew Pew Pew! Why Scientists Are Fired Up About Futuristic Space Lasers]

Much of the mission's cargo is taking advantage of microgravity: One mission, called the Perfect Crystals investigation, will try to grow crystals from a protein that helps protect the human body from oxidizing radiation. Crystals grown without the disruptive influence of gravity  in the space station's freefall environment  can be larger and more regular, giving scientists insight into the proteins' structure. After the mission, the crystals will head to Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee for analysis with the lab's special neutron beam.

Two student projects launch to the International Space Station Dec. 4 under the banner of the "Guardians of the Galaxy" Space Station Challenge, a joint project between the U.S. National Laboratory and Marvel Entertainment. (Image credit: CASIS)

The next in a long line of mouse experiments will study the physiology of living in space, which can cause effects like bone and muscle loss that resemble accelerated aging. Budweiser is sending its third experiment to examine strains of barley seeds through the process of malting. Two experiments sent by student groups  with themes based on "Guardians of the Galaxy"  will study how well dental glue works in microgravity and search for an alternate way to water plants, according to a statement from the space station's U.S. National Laboratory.

The Dragon spacecraft will travel for about two days as it catches up to the International Space Station, after which the astronauts will use the station's robotic arm to pull it in and berth it to the side of the station. Then, the unloading  and experimenting  will begin.

Email Sarah Lewin at slewin@space.com or follow her @SarahExplains. Follow us on Twitter @Spacedotcom and on Facebook. Original article on Space.com.The United States' first asteroid-sampling probe has arrived at its target, acing a deep-space rendezvous about 76 million miles (122 million kilometers) from Earth.

NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft sidled up to the diamond-shaped asteroid Bennu today (Dec. 3) at about 12 p.m. EST (1700 GMT), wrapping up a circuitous cosmic chase that lasted 27 months.

"#WelcomeToBennu! After two years of travel  and more than a decade of planning and work by my team  Im here. But Arrival is just the beginning" team members wrote today via the mission's Twitter account, @OSIRISREx. [OSIRIS-REx: NASA's Asteroid Sample-Return Mission in Pictures]

NASAs OSIRIS-REx spacecraft captured this photo of the asteroid Bennu on Nov. 16, 2018, from a distance of 85 miles (136 kilometers). OSIRIS-REx arrived at the space rock on Dec. 3. (Image credit: NASA/Goddard/University of Arizona)

OSIRIS-REx is now less than 12 miles (20 km) from Bennu, but the probe is flying along with the space rock rather than orbiting it. Orbital insertion won't come until Dec. 31, after OSIRIS-REx has performed a series of flybys that will bring the probe to within just 4.3 miles (7 km) or so of Bennu's boulder-strewn surface.

During these close encounters, OSIRIS-REx will study Bennu in depth, allowing team members to nail down the 1,650-foot-wide (500 meters) asteroid's mass and precise shape.

"It's really important for us to spend some time gathering that data and making sure that the assumptions we have going into orbit are correct, to reduce the risk of having an inaccurate insertion," OSIRIS-REx Deputy Principal Investigator Heather Enos, of the University of Arizona, told Space.com.

That orbital insertion will be another groundbreaking moment. For starters, no spacecraft has ever circled an object as small as Bennu. And OSIRIS-REx will get very close, slipping into an orbit just 1 mile (1.6 km) above the space rock on Dec. 31.

"We're going to set a record for the closest distance that a spacecraft ever orbited a small body," Enos said. "So, we don't take that lightly, and we do need to do things methodically."

Orbital insertion, by the way, will occur just one day before NASA's New Horizons probe makes its epic flyby of the frigid, faraway object Ultima Thule. (Happy New Year!)

A long haul

The $800 million OSIRIS-REx mission launched on Sept. 8, 2016, then returned for a speed-boosting "gravity assist" flyby of Earth almost exactly one year later. The probe has been closing the gap on Bennu ever since, during a space chase covering more than 1.25 billion miles (2.03 billion km).

OSIRIS-REx will collect a variety of scientific data over the coming months. But the spacecraft will also do quite a bit of scouting work, looking for the best place for swoop down and snag at least 2.1 ounces (60 grams) of Bennu material.

An artists illustration of NASAs OSIRIS-REx spacecraft approaching the asteroid Bennu. (Image credit: NASA/Goddard/University of Arizona)

This sample-collection maneuver is scheduled to occur in July 2020. If all goes according to plan, OSIRIS-REx will depart Bennu in March 2021, and the sample will come down to Earth in a special return capsule in September 2023.

The Bennu bits will be the largest celestial sample brought to Earth by a space mission since the Apollo era, when NASA astronauts lugged hundreds of pounds of moon rocks back to their home planet.

Researchers in labs around the globe will then scrutinize the material, searching for clues about the early history of the solar system, and the role that carbon-rich asteroids such as Bennu may have played in helping life get started on Earth long ago (by delivering water and organic chemicals, the building blocks of life as we know it).

And there's no telling what other discoveries may come from such sample study, mission team members have said.

Sample return "is the gift that keeps on giving," Enos said. Scientists are still poring over the Apollo rocks, more than 45 years after the last of them came to Earth, she noted. [Lunar Legacy: 45 Apollo Moon Mission Photos]

"We just keep improving our analytical skills to take things to the subatomic level and really dissect them, so to speak," Enos said.

Many mission goals

OSIRIS-REx has many subsidiary goals in addition to the main objective outlined above. Such diversity and ambition are apparent in the mission's full name: "Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security-Regolith Explorer."

For example, OSIRIS-REx's data should shed light on the resource potential of Bennu-like asteroids, providing data of interest to space miners and the human-spaceflight community, mission team members have said. (NASA officials and exploration advocates have stressed the importance of exploiting in-space resources, such as water ice, for humanity's sustained expansion out into the solar system.)

And then there's the "security" component. OSIRIS-REx's measurements at Bennu should help scientists better understand how solar heating  or, more precisely, the asymmetrical emission of absorbed solar radiation  can affect asteroids' paths through space. Such information could lead to more-accurate predictions of where potentially hazardous space rocks may be headed, OSIRIS-REx team members have said.

Bennu itself falls into this category: There's a very slight chance that the space rock could slam into our planet in the late 22nd century.

Working together

OSIRIS-REx, which was built by aerospace company Lockheed Martin, isn't the only spacecraft exploring a near-Earth asteroid right now. Japan's Hayabusa2 spacecraft has been orbiting the 3,000-foot-wide (900 m) space rock Ryugu  which shares Bennu's diamond shape  since June and has even dropped a handful of miniprobes onto the asteroid's surface.

Hayabusa2 is also a sample-return mission; the probe's return capsule is scheduled to come down to Earth in December 2020.

The OSIRIS-REx and Hayabusa2 teams have already been working together, and the collaboration will continue through sample collection, return and analysis. NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency have agreed to share samples with each other, Enos said.

"I think that we're really lucky in the science community and the planetary-exploration community to have two missions going on at the same time," she said.

"And although we have a lot of similarities with Hayabusa2, our asteroids are considered to be a very different composition," Enos added. "That in itself is really puzzling and will be exciting to explore."

Mike Wall's book about the search for alien life, "Out There" (Grand Central Publishing, 2018; illustrated by Karl Tate) is out now. Follow him on Twitter @michaeldwall. Follow us @Spacedotcom or Facebook. Originally published on Space.com.Jobs-search firm Indeed plans to add another 500 jobs in Stamford, bringing its total Connecticut contingent to 1,700, company and state officials announced Monday.

The hiring push highlights the surging growth of Indeed, which last year had announced another 500 jobs that it would create at its downtown offices at 177 Broad St. The company now employs more than 900 in the city and plans to invest $66 million in the project  one of the largest corporate expansions in recent years in Connecticut, and a recipient of multimillion-dollar state subsidies.

We continue to invest in Connecticut because this region has helped us deliver on our mission of helping people get jobs since we started here 14 years ago, Dave ONeill, Indeeds chief operating officer, said in a statement. While we have expanded all over the world since our founding, Stamford continues to be a critical region for our success, and we are confident we will continue to find the talent we need to help our business continue its growth.

The company in a statement said it is exploring real estate options to accommodate the growth, suggesting it would consider other locations, in addition to 177 Broad, to house the new employees.

The state Department of Economic and Community Development is supporting the enlargement with a $10 million low-interest loan, across 15 years, for equipment and lease-related improvements. Indeed could have the entire loan forgiven if it reaches 1,700 jobs by the end of 2031 and maintains that employment level for at least two years.

The company could also earn up to $5 million in tax credits through DECDs Urban and Industrial Site Reinvestment Tax Credit program.

Separately, the firm qualified for a $7 million loan and up to $15 million in tax credits related to the 2017 expansion plan.

Indeeds expansion in our state is great news for the well-trained, talented, and sought-out workers in Connecticuts tech sector, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said in a statement. This is a global, innovative company that has recognized the benefits that Connecticut brings to the tech industry. We welcome the companys capital investment in our state and the growth of hundreds of high-quality jobs that will follow.

Since its 2004 founding, Indeed has maintained its largest East Coast offices in Stamford, alongside its global headquarters in Austin, Texas.

In the past 14 years, the company has grown into the self-described No. 1 job site in the world. More than 200 million people use indeed.com each month to search for jobs, post resumes and research companies.

The company has quadrupled its worldwide headcount in the past three years. It employs about 7,400 in 27 offices around the world.

Its growth in Stamford has been equally striking. When the firm moved to 177 Broad St. in 2011, it took a half floor for about 50 employees. It now occupies eight levels and has been building out a ninth floor this year.

Sales and client success customer-service departments represent the largest departments in Stamford.

We believe that southwestern Connecticut is a great place for people to live and work and build their lives, Nolan Farris, Indeeds senior vice president of sales, said in an interview earlier this year. We think were able to continue to attract a highly educated, tech-savvy employee base.

At the same time, Indeed is growing in Austin. Now employing about 2,000 in the Texas capital, the company announced in May it would add up to 3,000 jobs there during the next few years.

Other state-backed corporate expansions in Stamford were announced earlier this year by IT consulting and research firm Gartner, professional-services firms KPMG and PwC, reality-show producer ITV America and entertainment-startup Wheelhouse Entertainment.

Those initiatives could together create a total of nearly 1,400 jobs, with possibly more than $25 million in related state subsidies.

We are excited to see that Indeed is continuing to expand its operation here in Stamford Mayor David Martin said in a statement. Stamford is the kind of city where many businesses like Indeed want to be, one with a great, highly talented work force. This is why Stamford remains an attractive business environment for a wide variety of industries.

pschott@scni.com; 203-964-2236; twitter: @paulschottAn auctioneer has lined next week what it says is a final auction of home fixtures and decor from Klaffs, which collapsed in August under an overhang of debt due Peoples United Bank.

At the time of its August shutdown, Klaffs owed $4.4 million to Peoples United Bank, about the amount Klaffs CEO negotiated in selling the companys former South Norwalk headquarters building to a major developer based in Norwalk.

After a run extending back to 1921, in August Klaffs pulled the plug on its SoNo store after shutting down a Danbury showroom earlier this year. Grafe Auction has scheduled a Dec. 10 open house for the public to inspect items on the auction block, with information online at www.grafeauction.com or by calling (507) 254-1184. Sales commence Dec. 11 at 9 a.m. and run through Dec. 14, both on site and online.

Even as Klaffs closed its 28 Washington St. showroom, Norwalk-based Spinnaker Real Estate Partners bought Klaffs former headquarters building at 165 Water St. for $4.6 million, with the property having been listed for sale early this year. The building totals more than 50,000 square feet of space on nearly two acres of land.

The city of Norwalk lists a limited liability company controlled by Klaffs CEO Joe Passero as the owner of the companys Washington Street showroom building, with the property appraised this year at $5.5 million. Passero could not be reached immediately Monday for an update on the companys financial position.

Spinnaker plans to maintain the Water Street building for office, industrial or flex tenant use, according to firm principal Kim Morque. Spinnaker has undertaken both residential and commercial projects in Norwalk and the wider region, to include the recently completed 19 Day St. apartments a few blocks from the former Klaffs headquarters.

In late August, Peoples United called in an outstanding loan to Klaffs, according to a legal posting by the Bridgeport-based bank, originally for $8 million at the time it was issued in 2010 for the retailer to tap as needed, with the companies having a long-standing credit relationship.

Within two weeks, Klaffs had surrendered to Peoples United collateral the company had put up to secure the loan. In addition to inventory and other items at Klaffs showrooms in Norwalk and Scarsdale, N.Y., the Bridgeport-based bank seized assets at the Water Street headquarters as well, with liquidation sales having started in October.

Peoples United listed $5.7 million in charge-offs in the third quarter for commercial loans it originated, along with $600,000 in recoveries and $6.3 million as provisions against future loan losses.

Robert Koch contributed to this report.

Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulmanRobust third-quarter sales growth in China and some key markets is making US retail giant Walmart Inc upbeat about full-year earnings prospects.



Investments in e-commerce and a home delivery system for groceries are further boosting its confidence.

Third-quarter revenues in China rose 4.3 percent year-on-year, driven by strong sales of fresh food, it said, without disclosing absolute figures.

Particularly, Sam's Club, Walmart's high-end membership stores in China, saw a good performance during Mid-Autumn Festival in September.

Walmart's global revenues in the third quarter reached $124.9 billion, up 1.4 percent year-on-year.

In 2017, its total revenue worldwide was $485.9 billion, up 3.1 percent year-on-year, yielding gains of $14.5 billion, which will return to shareholders through dividends.

Walmart has more than 400 stores in over 180 Chinese cities. The retailer said it plans to open 30 to 40 more new stores every year, and it will build more intelligent stores that utilize advanced technologies.

The world's largest retailer has been trying to reinvent its supermarket chain to enable it to compete in the changing and competitive retail and e-commerce sectors.

During the third quarter, Walmart China launched three new joint initiatives with JD, an online marketplace in China. In addition, Walmart announced a $50 million strategic investment in New Dada, China's largest local on-demand logistics and grocery O2O (online-to-offline) e-commerce platform.

The two-hour delivery service is available via JD to consumers within a 3 kilometers radius of more than 40 Walmart stores in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Beijing and Shanghai. The service is expected to expand to more Walmart stores in Chengdu, Wuhan and other cities, the company said.

"We recently announced we own roughly 10 percent of JD's shares. Through the alliance with JD, we hope to further strengthen the partnership with JD," said Doug McMillon, president and CEO of Walmart.

McMillon said China is an important source of global retail growth, and Walmart is grabbing the opportunity by accelerating the company's omnichannel sales capabilities.

With improving sales and increased footfalls at its stores, Walmart said the investment in e-commerce, home grocery delivery and curbside pickup, have been key to keeping the store competitive.

Meanwhile, the US-China trade tensions with steep tariffs on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods is something the firm "will manage through", regardless of what happens, said Walmart Chief Financial Officer Brett Biggs.

He said the prospect of US tariffs increasing in January to 25 percent is "not positive", since prices will go up, and Walmart would prefer to see a resolution. But he noted that consumers are expected to continue to be in "good shape" going into the holiday shopping season.

Walmart became the world's largest retailer in 1990. In 1996, the traditional retailer established its own e-commerce website. In 2010, it launched a third-party e-commerce shopping platform. By April this year, the platform had about 18,000 sellers, according to global consultancy KPMG.

"In the past five years, Walmart has been buying global e-commerce platforms and delivery platform enterprises, and pushing forward the coordinated growth of its retail sales and services. It has activated the global layout of retail services," said Mao Jian, partner of IT advisory of digital and customer practice at KPMG China.

In 2015, Walmart started to wholly own online grocery store Yhd in China. The combination of local advantage of Yhd and Walmart's global procurement resources, retail stores and supply chain has helped it to record more growth in China.

"Now, the competition between retailers has shifted to the ability to satisfy immediate demand of consumers. Traditional retailers are continuing their transformation to develop digital sales channels, and express delivery services have empowered traditional retailers," Mao said.

In the future, online and offline sales will further fuse together, and quality service is highly important to retailers, KPMG said in its November report on the retail industry.T oday we launch our appeal to raise vital funds to tackle the Aids epidemic and dramatically boost the number of people being tested for HIV.

Together with the Elton John AIDS Foundation, we will shine a spotlight on London and five other cities around the world which are striving to crack down on the virus and create an Aids-free future.

In the coming weeks we will highlight the huge medical advances that have been made which have transformed the lives of those living with HIV.

We will also show that here in London  and in our appeal cities of Delhi in India, Nairobi in Kenya, Maputo in Mozambique, Kiev in Ukraine, and Atlanta in the USA  much more must be done.

Aids is a devastating disease. Globally, 37 million people are living with HIV and this figure rose by 1.8 million people last year. In the UK, an average of 15 people are infected every day.

Medicines are now available that not only help those affected to have full lives, but also mean they cannot pass the virus on to others.

Today treatment is a game-changer in the global effort to reduce the burden of HIV.

But it is crucial for people to know their HIV status. It is only when people have this information that they can access the right treatment.

Elton John at the AIDSfree launch in Atlanta

For some people treatment is out of reach because of social exclusion and shame  this can include young women, the homeless, migrants and the LGBT+ community. These groups need support.

The money generated by AIDSfree will go towards raising awareness of the risks; promoting testing so those vulnerable to HIV are aware of their status; and funding projects so those with a positive status are linked to care and the right treatment.

We will report on the stories of people living with HIV from London and our five cities across the globe, in the hope that this open and accepting conversation will help make HIV testing normal and break the stigma that still surrounds the virus.

London is a global leader in fighting HIV/Aids. Not only do we have good public health programmes, but we have the support of an open, tolerant and well informed public.

This Christmas we can go further and make a significant and lasting difference.A mother with HIV today told how she went on to have two children following her diagnosis  who are both free of the infection.

Amanda Mammadova was given the news she was HIV positive eight years ago after a routine health check to join the RAF. The personal trainer, who was in a new relationship, said all she could think was: Im going to die.

She said: I got my results at work on a lunch break at work. The receptionist at the clinic phoned me and told me, You need to come in. When I asked why she said, Theres something wrong with your blood. She said she couldnt tell me. But I wouldnt let her get off the phone. She eventually told me I was HIV positive.

It was such a shock, it was mind blowing and completely floored me. She added: The minute I heard those test results I thought Im going to die, and nobody will ever want me again. I just thought this was the start of a very miserable existence.

Her results came four days before she was due to visit her boyfriend, who was living in Azerbaijan. She decided to reveal the news over Skype as she was sure he would end their relationship.

But two weeks later he proposed and six months later they were married. He tested negative for HIV.

Don't write anything off: Amanda Mammadova with her children, Logan, aged 3, and Saabira, aged 5 / SWNS

Ms Mammadova, 38, who works with the Bloomsbury Network, a charity attached to the Bloomsbury Clinic, had a child from a previous relationship but wanted more. She said: I assumed my diagnosis meant I wouldnt be able to. HIV medication reduces the amount of the virus in the blood to undetectable levels. Once someone is on antiretroviral drugs the level of HIV can be cut so that the virus cannot be passed on during sex.

When Ms Mammadova, who lives in Milton Keynes, found out her viral load  the amount of virus in blood  was undetectable she decided to try to get pregnant. Saabira, five, was born on February 15, 2013. They took her blood straight away. I couldnt watch. It was terrifying. You know the risk of passing on the virus is less than one per cent but you are scared for your baby. We waited a couple of weeks before being told she was negative.

Then Logan, three, was born on July 11, 2015. At the first birth she had a midwife wearing double gloves and a face mask.

At the second, there was no mask and just the standard one pair of gloves. The situation was very different, said Ms Mammadova, who suspects she contracted it from a former boyfriend. It was like even in that short period things had moved on.

Older daughter Lauren, 18, was told about her mothers HIV status aged 12. In a sex education class one teacher said when a woman has HIV she cant have children, said Ms Mammadova, who split up with her husband 18 months ago. Lauren told her she was wrong and that I was pregnant.

People told me to keep quiet about my status but I thought, How dare you tell me to keep quiet like Im ashamed about it? Its not a dirty little secret. What Id say to anyone diagnosed is: life is full of surprises. Dont write anything off. HIV means you can live the same as everyone else.Authorities present the results of reform and innovation of green finance in Quzhou, Zhejiang province on Dec. 1, 2018. [Photo by Wang Xiaojun/China.org.cn]

On Dec. 1, authorities in the historical city of Quzhou, Zhejiang province, unveiled the fruitful results of the reform and innovation of green finance over the past 18 months.

In June 2017, the city was approved by China's State Council as a pilot zone for green finance reform and innovation. Since then, efforts have been underway to redirect the financial sector to support companies, projects and individuals contributing to green development, resulting in many significant achievements.

Since the introduction of the pilot scheme, rural credit institutions have promoted green finance and launched a series of original green products; moreover, the government has established standardized systems of green finance and introduced approval procedures.

Promoting green finance and inclusive finance together

Authorities in Quzhou have long been promoting financial products and services which are accessible to low-income individuals, known as inclusive finance. Rural credit institutions are the largest financial institutions in Quzhou, providing the broadest service coverage and enjoying the highest market share. They provide basic financial services to more than 2 million people in the city, covering four-fifths of the farmers and two-fifths of small and micro businesses.

After Quzhou was approved as a pilot zone, the representatives of the rural credit institutions carried out a series of discussions on green finance reform. They were initially wary, recalled Xu Qingguo, chairman of Jiangshan Rural Commercial Bank.



"But as discussions went on, a consensus emerged that green mountains are gold mountains," Xu said.

Xu's bank operates 327 service outlets across all the villages and communities in Jiangshan city, a city under the administration of Quzhou. Offering a large amount of financial services, as well as assisting with local government affairs like pension distribution, they provide services to over 1 million people every year.

Following the green finance reform and innovation, Xu's bank initiated a platform for personal accounts to quantify the reduction in carbon emissions. Customers with personal accounts can now calculate how much they reduce carbon emissions by making use of facilities near their home instead of taking vehicles to the bank, and by simply viewing statements online rather than on paper.

Customers who successfully lower their carbon emissions will have this transformed into score points, which can be exchanged for gifts or vouchers.

"As a local bank, it is necessary for us to fulfill our social responsibilities," Xu said.

Wu Tongzheng, director of Quzhou Branch Office of Zhejiang Rural Credit Cooperatives Union, said that "promoting green finance reform is an 'upgraded version' of deepening the development of inclusive finance. Inclusive and green finance can complement each other in the way of development."

"'Green' makes inclusive finance more sustainable, and 'inclusive' makes green finance more convenient. The two must be promoted hand in hand," Wu added.

Launching a series of original green products

Quzhou is heavily forested, with forests covering over 73 percent of the surrounding area. In order to protect this valuable natural resource, the authorities are encouraging individuals and companies who own forest rights to use these rights as guarantees on new mortgages offered by financial institutions.

This is just one of many green finance products Quzhou developed in accordance with the specific conditions of different regions.

The city has so-far launched 142 innovative green products covering credit, bonds, insurances, payments and many other types. In 2018, the number of new green products in Quzhou increased by 246 percent, according to Zhou Linhai, director of Quzhou Banking Regulatory Bureau.

Besides the mortgage loans with forest rights, the city also took the lead in the country to launch green finance bonds for small and micro businesses. They benefited 3,200 small and micro businesses with an average loan of 470,000 yuan per business.

The city also launched many innovative green insurance products, yet to be introduced nationwide, like liability insurance for production safety and environmental pollution, pig insurance, and comprehensive liability insurance for electric bicycles.

Establishing standard systems of green finance

According to Wang Liangchun, vice mayor of Quzhou, the city has also established three-level index systems to evaluate green projects and green enterprises respectively, and formulated standards for the green banking system in local institutions.

The evaluation of green companies is based on six primary indexes: business performance, industry performance, environmental performance, social performance, corporate governance, and qualifications & honors. In addition, there are also 19 secondary and 41 tertiary indexes set under the primary ones.

The evaluation of green projects also adopts a similar system comprising four primary, 10 secondary and some tertiary indexes.

On this basis, the city also established a green project pool, currently investing in 56 green projects making up a total investment of 24.05 billion yuan (US$ 3.47 billion).

According to Wang, with the evaluation systems in place, the city rated companies and projects according to the scores, and on this basis, guided social capital to increase support for the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries and the development of green industries and smart industries.

Facilitating approval procedures

In addition, the city also reengineered the approval procedures of the rural commercial banks, so that local institutions could play a leading and demonstrative role in facilitating approval.

The city also encouraged all commercial banks to set up green finance departments, and opened independent channels to facilitate the approval of green loans.

"These moves received wide responses and achieved positive results," said Zhou Linhai, director of Quzhou Banking Regulatory Bureau.

At present, 80 percent of financial institutions under its regulation have set up green finance departments, and there are also 19 pilot banks of green finance.

By the end of this October, the balance of green loans in the city reached 47.23 billion yuan, accounting for 21.45 percent of all loans. This is an increase of 61.96 percent since the previous year, and 47.52 percentage points higher than the average growth rate of other loans.

Wang adds that, Quzhou made a three-year plan when approved as a pilot zone, and these are merely the expected outcomes of developing green finance so far.

As the city moves forward, local authorities plan to speed up the construction of green finance systems, innovate to guarantee the supply of green finance products, further simplify procedures in financial institutions, and step up efforts to promote green finance and investments.Q atar is quitting Opec, the oil cartel led by Saudi Arabia, just days before the groups next meeting.

While Qatar is not a big oil country  it accounts for less than 2% of global output  the move was seen as significant politically.

Qatar, the worlds richest country per person, said it intends to focus on gas production.

Energy minister Saad al-Kaabi, left, said: We dont have great potential (in oil). We are very realistic. Our potential is gas.

But Qatar has been an Opec member since 1961.

It has faced boycotts from Arab neighbours over allegations that it funds terrorism.

It insisted the Opec move was not related to the political and economic boycott by the Saudis.F ashion brand Ted Bakers shares tumbled on Monday as the City reacted to a backlash from staff over a forced hugging culture by founder and chief executive Ray Kelvin.

The shares tumbled 12.2p, or 223p, to 1603p after a petition, launched by an employee, accused Kelvin of inappropriate behaviour.

A retail analyst said: If the situation escalates, Rays position could become untenable. It would be a massive blow for Ted.

The business, which is expected to update the City on Thursday with its latest sales figures, said the chief executive greets many people with a hug, be it a shareholder, investor, supplier, partner, customer and colleague, and hugs are absolutely not insisted upon.

On Monday it appointed a clutch of independent non-executive directors to look into the matter and launched a thorough and urgent external investigation.

The petition had 2500 signatories this morning. It also claimed that young female staff had been asked to sit on Kelvins knee, cuddle him or let him massage their ears.

The owner regularly makes sexual innuendos at staff, the employees said. They demanded that harassment claims or similar be reported to an external body, independent from the HR in-house department.

Ted Baker, which opened its first store in Glasgow, now has more than 500 shops worldwide.

The company added: While the claims made are entirely at odds with the values of our business and those of our chief executive, we take them very seriously and will ensure that a thorough independent investigation is carried out.

Analysts expect downbeat figures from the retailer, given the woes of House of Fraser and tough High Street trading. Ted was owed 600,000 when HoF fell into administration in August.T ogether we can win the fight against cruel HIV

Let us make London Aids-free. Thats one of the bold ambitions that this years Evening Standard and Independent charity appeal sets out to support.

For a city that has over the decades seen so many people die because of this terrible disease, it seems at first an impossible dream.

But as HIV consultant Professor Jane Anderson tells the Evening Standard today , it is an achievable goal to not only make the city Aids-free but to try to end new HIV infections as well by 2030  thanks to improved screening and huge breakthroughs in treatment.

It is worth yet again reminding everyone that these days, no one with the HIV virus should die  all can live full lives and should be able to carry no risk of passing the infection on to others.

While there have been big falls in infection rates in Britain, down 21 per cent last year alone, 15 people a day on average contract the virus in our country.

So there is still a big job to be done to ensure people get tested and know their HIV status  especially among vulnerable groups in our capital.

This is where you can help by supporting our appeal. We are working with the Elton John AIDS Foundation, the incredible charity created by that incredible musician.

For 25 years, the foundation has worked in the UK and around the world funding testing and helping ensure people get access to the treatment programmes they need.

Heartfelt appeal: Sir Elton John in Atlanta

The emotional picture above shows how deeply Sir Elton feels about the fight against this dreadful disease. The photo was taken in Atlanta, in one of the many clinics supported by his foundation.

Sir Elton, with Evgeny Lebedev, proprietor of the Evening Standard, took a swab HIV test to show how simple it is  and to encourage those who havent been tested to do so.

In America, tragically, many people still die entirely unnecessarily of an Aids-related illness.

As Sir Elton says powerfully, what was once a condition primarily associated with affluent gay communities in cities like LA and New York has become a disease of the poor all across America, especially among African-Americans.

The growing presence of the Evening Standard online in the US, along with The Independent, means that for the first time our annual charity appeal will also raise money from American readers to help the foundations work there.

Aids is a disease of the poor across the world. Tragically, despite the fact treatments exist to conquer this epidemic, the number of people who contract HIV continues to grow sharply  up almost two million last year to 37 million. This is a disgrace.

What we have already achieved in our capital, we should help our neighbours in the world achieve. Thats why with this appeal we are partnering London and Atlanta with Nairobi in Kenya, Kiev in Ukraine, New Delhi in India and Maputo in Mozambique.

This is the Evening Standards most ambitious Christmas appeal to date. We need your help to make it a success. At this time of year we think not just of our families but of those who dont have our good fortune, and we do what we can to help.

The people in our city who have HIV but dont know it need that help. The poor of America who are living with the virus need our help. The millions of our fellow human beings around the world dying because of a disease we can treat and prevent need our help.

Thank you.

Heading off the rails

If everything had gone to plan, Londoners would be about to celebrate the opening of the Elizabeth line.

The fast, spacious service was supposed to start running next Sunday. Instead the new trains arent even ready for full testing and a row has broken out between its boss and the Mayor of London over whats gone wrong.

The Mayor says Crossrail chair Sir Terry Morgan did not tell him until August that the project would open a year late. Sir Terry insists he warned him earlier .

Why does it matter? Because Sir Terry was also appointed chair of HS2 in July  and expects to lose that post as well as his Crossrail role. That leaves two multi-billion-pound key transport projects leaderless and probably late.T heresa May wants a blindfold Brexit. Her deal means leaving the EU without being able to see what our future relationship will be. I cant support that and its one of the reasons why the deal wont get through Parliament next week. But nor can we agree to no-deal. If the Prime Minister keeps ploughing on, we are heading into a full-blown constitutional crisis as well as Brexit chaos. So its time for Parliament to take back control.

The truth is the Prime Ministers deal isnt really a deal at all; its a stopgap. When the transition runs out, we dont know what our trading relationship will be. The non-binding Political Declaration on the future partnership was supposed to tell us the answer but its a complete fudge. Ministers admit it includes a wide spectrum of possible outcomes for the checks and controls our manufacturers and traders will face. Depending on which paragraph you read, it could mean nearly Norway, back to Chequers, off to Canada or far beyond.

On security, things arent much clearer. Theres little clue to what our new relationship will be with Europol, no clarity on future arrest warrants, and the EU refused to even include in the Political Declaration any reference to the crucial SIS2 European criminal database, which our police and border force currently use 500 million times a year. Without these measures, the police say our country is less safe.

The Prime Minister is asking us to walk out the door now and slam it behind us with no idea where we are going. Yet leaving with so few assurances, and with so much of the real substance still to be resolved, just weakens our negotiating position. Thats not in the national interest whatever you think our future relationship with Europe should be. Parliament is being expected to trust May to magically sort everything with the EU later on.

But thats hard when May has done so little to build trust or confidence so far.

Yvette Cooper / AFP/Getty Images

Remember: the Prime Minister didnt consult anyone on her red lines; tried to stop Parliament voting on the negotiating objectives, Article 50, or the final deal; and tried to keep impact assessments secret. Today she is still refusing to publish the full legal advice, despite a direction from Parliament. The Prime Minister asked the country for a mandate to do Brexit in her own way in the 2017 election and didnt get one. But when the electorate returned a hung Parliament to oversee the Brexit deal, instead of building a cross-party approach she just carried on as if nothing had changed.

With such a divided country, finding the best way forward was never going to be easy. But there was no attempt to reach out to Remain voters and no attempt to manage the expectations of Leave voters. The result is that everyone feels let down. So with MPs from all sides expected to vote the Prime Ministers deal down next week, what happens next?

The only requirement on the Government is to produce a follow-up statement within 21 days on the way forward  effectively setting out their plan B. But under the Governments legislation we arent allowed a meaningful vote for or against the new plan and we cant amend it, even if it includes leaving with no deal. That is ludicrous.

Instead Parliament needs its voice back  and we should start by ruling out a deeply damaging no-deal. A Yorkshire company I visited this weekend told me how worried it was that the price of its main imported ingredients would double in April if we end up crashing out on World Trade Organisation terms. The Bank of England has estimated that the shock from sudden new tariffs, controls, checks and delays could cause a deeper recession than the global financial crisis.

"The PM is asking us to walk out of the door of the EU now and slam it behind us with no idea where we are going"

It would also mean an immediate loss of security co-operation  letting criminals evade trial and losing vital security information at the border. Knowing May for more than 20 years, I dont believe she is the kind of Prime Minister who will in the end let no-deal happen. She takes the security and economic risks seriously. But I also dont think we can afford to take the chance.

That is why I am supporting Hilary Benns amendment next week, co-signed with fellow chairs of cross-party parliamentary committees. It opposes the Prime Ministers deal, rules out no-deal, and then gives Parliament the power to amend and decide on the Governments follow-up plans.

Its also why I believe Article 50 should now be extended so that ministers, Parliament, the country and the EU can pause for breath and rethink all the options. This is a mess and we are going to need enough time to sort it out. Meanwhile, we need to urgently lift the pressure off businesses, organisations and Government departments who will otherwise have to start throwing everything at preparing for no-deal in March.

The Prime Ministers go-it-alone approach has failed to unite the country, get us a good deal or clarify our future. Parliament cant just stand by and let that happen. That is why I hope MPs from all parties will come together to back Benns amendment as the first step to finding a more sensible way forward now.S omaliland, an unrecognised former British colony in the Horn of Africa, has been described as the African miracle that nobody knows about. It lies in a region facing severe challenges: political instability, the rise of extremism and conflict. But Somaliland has, somehow, managed to avoid these threats. It remains severely poor and is still recovering from three consecutive years of drought. Yet tonight senior Somaliland ministers, British MPs and campaigners are meeting in the House of Commons to see how it can begin what seems an improbable journey: to join the fight against the illegal wildlife trade.

Youd be forgiven for thinking protecting wildlife in a country facing so many human problems is unlikely. But as someone who has reported from the drought in the region and who has family living in the midst of it, I can tell you it isnt. Political instability in fragile places such as east Africa is more linked to conservation, climate change and the illegal wildlife trade than you think.

As a child I remember visiting the lush savannah bush outside the capital, Hargeisa, and the regions to the east that are still home to one of the last natural wild forests of trees producing frankincense and myrrh. These same areas saw a considerable abundance of wildlife, in particular cheetahs that were common, from the very south of Somalia near its border with Kenya, to the very north, in areas near the Red Sea.

But hardly any of those creatures remain today.

The civil war between Somalia and Somaliland in the Eighties saw the near-annihilation of wildlife. The few that survived soon saw their habitats destroyed as the shrub, trees and much of the savannah bush that they relied on was burned for charcoal  which almost every household uses to cook their food. Some of these creatures, however, do remain clinging to life in an ever-decreasing habitat where a perfect storm of degradation of soil and plants, deforestation, climate change and the effects of civil war have ravaged both rural communities and wildlife.

But Somalilands ability to avoid political instability and terrorism  and hold four multi-party one-man, one-vote elections with peaceful transfers of power  have given it the chance to do something about this, and tonight the House of Commons is hosting its conference. Somaliland doesnt have the resources to protect and rehabilitate the last few remaining cheetahs and other rare species but it is willing to do so if it gets the help.

The reason is simple; and Ive seen this for myself in nearly all those countries. The groups behind the illegal wildlife trade are the same groups involved in human trafficking and migration, violent extremism and terrorism, undermining the rule of law and governments. This conference really could lead to big things  for Somaliland and for us.D id those in the New Labour government ever think, as they amassed intelligence to back the 2003 invasion of Iraq: This could one day be taken apart in a public inquiry? Did they think, This claim that weapons of mass destruction could reach our shores in 45 minutes  will people one day demand to know how we came to that conclusion? Possibly.

But post-Chilcot, post-Butler, and in the full knowledge that government decision-making may be scrutinised, civil servants are now, Im told, keeping careful notes, convinced theyll be called to give evidence to a Brexit inquiry.

And its not just civil servants. Government special advisers fear this too. We are fully expecting an inquiry, a Cabinet ministers aide told me over dinner last week. It will be welcomed by extremists on both sides but to sensible people too. There have been so many lies, so many misleading statements.

Of course Theresa May is famously cagey about how choices are made in Number 10. Its in part why successive DExEu secretaries resigned and why MPs will press her again to disclose the legal advice given for her Brexit plan.

But the adviser argues that two crucial moments equal New Labours 45-minute WMD claim. Both had a profound impact on the deal May negotiated, and both were, arguably, misguided calculations made against Whitehall advice.

The first was the triggering of Article 50. She announced this in a speech to the Conservative Party conference in October 2016 with the intention of reassuring Leavers that she  a Remain voter  could be trusted to deliver Brexit. But at a stroke she undermined the UKs negotiating position, starting the clock before securing a single concession from the EU, either on substance or the sequence of the negotiations of Brexit.

Dominic Cummings, the Vote Leave chief, described it as putting a loaded gun in ones own mouth. Not only was Whitehalls advice tossed aside, the source says, some Number 10 advisers were overruled too.

Her second mistake was agreeing to the Northern Ireland protocol in December 2017  a decision, the aide says, made without consulting the Cabinet or the DUP. Effectively it committed the UK to the backstop (leaving Northern Ireland alone in the customs union and the single market). Gavin Barwell, her chief of staff, told Cabinet ministers that the language in protocol was meaningless. Just there to move things on. But its a reworked backstop in the Withdrawal Agreement that keeps the UK in the customs union and Northern Ireland as part of the single market. Its loathed by the DUP and many of Mays MPs and largely why her deal seems doomed.

So did she have legal advice on the backstop? If not, why not? The aide poses rhetorically. And if so, did she ignore it? Or did they lie to Cabinet?

"Of course, Theresa May is famously cagey about how choices were made inside Number 10"

I put the inquiry suggestion to a civil service friend who confirms some colleagues are preparing as if there will be an inquiry and today The Telegraph prints a leaked letter written in October by Mays negotiator, Olly Robbins, carefully detailing his fears that the backstop would be hard to escape. Evidence?

A public inquiry might want to know why the civil service and millions of pounds were tied up creating DExEU and the Department of International Trade (DIT), instead of, say, preparing impact studies, or tariff weight quotas, or planning WTO schedules. With DExEU no longer allowed to engage in Brexit talks, what was the point?

Amid the gloom the royals bring cheer

Carole Middleton / Rex Features

After the 150 royal weddings and noble births, Id thought coverage of Kate, Meghan, Pippa, Eugenie et al would dissipate and wed all return to wrist-slashing over politics. Alas, no. As I waded through the papers yesterday I was greeted with Carole Middletons Christmas, which Middleton begins planning soon after Halloween. It includes wrapping themes, dress codes and a flexitarian menu.

Elsewhere there was a compare and contrast on the Duchesses of Windsor and Sussex (both American, both residents of Frogmore  one in life, one in death), and an exclusive on the palace hunting a mole who leaked news of rift between Kate and Meghan.

I suppose palace staff have nothing better to do now throwing weddings is over, so hunting moles must fill the hours between picking lint from velvet hair bands and slicing open ball invites with golden paper-knives. On the other hand, the royals provide a welcome distraction to millions in these dark times: an admirable public service indeed.

*During our weekly nit-comb, my son  taking a pencil point to anything live that fell from his fringe  wanted to know the vegan stance on lice. If they cant live for more than 24 hours off a human head, he reasoned, then combing is murder.

So I consulted a work colleague, whose boyfriend is vegan. His response? Head lice are c****.

I relayed to my son that vegans were fine with killing head lice. What about Buddhists? he asked. So we FaceTimed a Buddhist friend, who grimaced and admitted that, for her, lice were the exception.Theyre big on affordable fashion and hot on homeware, and as of this weekend H&Ms Westfield White City store is also a place to pop in for lunch or a latte.

Located on the first floor of the H&M store in Westfield White City, Its Pleat, is a 2400 square foot leafy oasis that serves healthy breakfasts, lunches and treats throughout store opening hours.

The cafe is H&Ms first in-store cafe in the UK, and their fourth globally (the first was launched in Stockholm last year).

With green velvet, palms and pretty metal fixtures, its all kinds of 'grammable too.

(H&M) / H&M

The menu is described as health-ish, meaning there are plenty of salads (a particular highlight is the Kimchy Whimsy Salad (4.50), which comes with sesame roasted mushrooms, black rice with black beans, kale & cabbage, butternut squash, beetroot-pickled swede, kimchi) in addition to cakes and sweet treats.

(H&M) / H&M

Ingredients are largely locally sourced and organic, much of the packaging is decomposable, and waste is decomposed on site to create compost.

We think of our philosophy as a healthy-ish approach to food, says Ulrika Leverenz, Its Pleats Managing Director. Some days all you need is a healthy salad and coconut water, and sometimes only a slice of chocolate cake and a cappuccino will do the trick.

(H&M) / H&MDesigners love to draw inspiration from their archives for new collections. And none more so than Versace.

Donatella Versace has delved into the brand's back catalogue of fashion hits several times recently. Most poignantly at the spring/summer 2018 show during Milan Fashion Week, which marked the 20th anniversary of her brother, Gianni Versace's, death.

For the emotional and nostalgic show, the designer bought back her brother's original bold prints from the early nineties and interpreted them into modern styles (think midi pleated skirts and boxy cropped jackets). But, it seems, there were still a few throwback styles left to be reimagined.

On Sunday Versace held its pre-fall 2019 fashion show in New York Citya first for the brandand among the high glamour looks, two iconic silhouettes made a resurgence on the runway.

Jennifer Lopez in Versace at the 42nd Grammy Awards in 2000 / Getty Images

The first, a sweeping maxi dress with a plunging neckline, which was first made famous by Jennifer Lopez in 2000 when she wore the revealing floral-print number to the Grammy Awards.

In fact, it was so talked about that Google was flooded with people all over the world searching for images to the outfit, which consequently led to the creation of Google Image Search.

Amber Valletta walks the runway at the Versace Pre-Fall 2019 / Getty Images

The pre-fall 2019 dress had been reimagined in Versace's love heart print and, as an added nostalgic twist, was modelled by Amber Valletta, who also wore the original number down the runway in 2000.

The second dress to make a comeback is arguably Versace's most iconic design to date: a slinky black dress, simply held together by gold safety pins.

Elizabeth Hurley wears the safety-pin Versace dress to the premiere of Four Weddings and a Funeral / PA Archive/PA Images

Often referred to as 'THAT dress', the Versace design was catapulted into the limelight at the premiere of Four Weddings and a Funeral in 1994 when Liz Hurley donned the risque gown.

Since then, numerous celebrities including Lady Gaga and Jennifer Lawrence have re-created the look, however the Italian brand's pre-fall collection sees the dress with a modern makeover.

Versace Pre-Fall 2019 Collection / Getty Images

"THAT dress is back: a garment that broke all barriers - the Safety Pin dress makes its return in a new and contemporary way," Versace wrote on Instagram.T he Old Vics production of Arthur Millers All My Sons is set to be broadcast in cinemas around the world tomorrow.

Sally Field and Bill Pullman play Kate and Joe Keller, whose lives remain haunted by losing their eldest son in the Second World War, in the production directed by Jeremy Herrin.

Colin Morgan and Jenna Coleman also star in the show, alongside Bessie Carter, Oliver Johnstone, Kayla Meikle and Sule Rimi.

The show opened at the Old Vic on April 15, and the NT Live cinema broadcast will take place around the UK on May 14. Dates for its broadcast in North America will be announced next year.

It will be the Old Vics second NT Live broadcast, the first being Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead in 2017, featuring Daniel Radcliffe and Joshua McGuire.

Where to watch All My Sons NT Live in London

Barbican Cinema

Kino Bermondsey

Curzon Aldgate

Rich Mix

Covent Garden Odeon

West End Vue

Curzon Bloomsbury

Picturehouse Central

Piccadilly Vue

The Soho Hotel

Islington Vue

Curzon Victoria

Everyman Screen-on-the-Green

Regent Street Cinema

Curzon Mayfair

Surrey Quays Odeon

Everyman King's Cross

Camden Odeon

Hackney Picturehouse

West India Quay Cineworld

Imperial Cinema

Fulham Road Cineworld

Everyman Maida Vale

Swiss Cottage Odeon

Greenwich Picturehouse

For more information, visit ntlive.nationaltheatre.org.ukFrom Louis Vuitton to Emilia Wickstead, the 21st British Independent Film Awards was a high fashion affair. Hollywood's finest, including Emma Stone, Gemma Arterton and Olivia Colman, hit the red carpet at Old Billingsgate in London's East End decked out in a vibrant array of ensembles.

Stone wowed in a scarlet Louis Vuitton bespoke A-line dress, whilst Arterton opted for full-length pastel pink pleated gown by New Zealand-born designer Emilia Wickstead.

Getty Images

Also delivering a pop of pink was Doctor Who star Jodie Whittaker, who wore a fuchsia cut-out dress with ruffle detailing by Aphid London, as well as Nocturnal Animals' Ellie Bamber, who stood out in a puff-sleeve magenta gown by Salvatore Ferragamo.

Getty Images

Lady Macbeth star Naomi Ackie was another follower of the red and pink trend in a show-stopping scarlet gown, as was Been So Long's Michaela Coel, who wore a striking red and white print mini dress.

Getty Images

Winners of the night, however, kept things monochrome. Felicity Jones looked sharp a white double-breasted suit by Ruhl to collect her Variety Award, whilst Best Actress winner Olivia Colman wore a slick black dress by Victoria Beckham.

Getty Images

And whilst Rachel Weisz - winner of Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Favourite alongside Colman - was unable to make the event, her co-star ensured she didn't miss out. The Crown star turned up with a cardboard cut-out of Weisz's face, which she proceeded to pose with throughout the night.

Getty Images

Most thoughtful, ma'am.Southwest China's Yunnan province is considering providing free treatment to some foreign residents with HIV/AIDS, a top Chinese epidemiologist said.

The province is planning to revise its regulations on HIV control and prevention so that foreigners with HIV/AIDS who have lived in Yunnan for a certain period of time and intend to continue living in China for a long time, such as those who have established families with Chinese, will get free treatment, according to Wu Zunyou, chief epidemiologist at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

"The amendment is still under review by authorities. Once in effect, it will help both foreigners and Chinese against the epidemic," he said ahead of World AIDS Day on Saturday.

Most HIV-positive foreigners in China live in areas along the country's borders with Myanmar and Vietnam, including Yunnan. The number living in China has been increasing since 2010 due to more frequent cross-border exchanges, according to the health authorities.

"Most foreigners with HIV in Yunnan have already set up families with Chinese," Wu said. "Providing free treatment to them can also protect local Chinese."

An official with the Yunnan Health Commission, who declined to be named, confirmed the regulation is being revised but did not give details.

The revised regulation is unlikely to provide free treatment to all HIV-positive foreigners in Yunnan, the official said, citing concerns that large numbers of foreigners with HIV might cross the border for free treatment.

"How could we deal with it then?" the official added.

The National Health Commission says all Chinese people living with HIV/AIDS have access to free antiviral treatment.

There were 2,154 HIV-positive foreigners reported to be living in China last year, compared with 660 in 2010, Han Mengjie, head of the National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, told a news conference last month.

He added that most were drug addicts or those living with Chinese spouses in Yunnan or the neighboring Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.

In Yunnan, health authorities face increasing difficulties containing HIV/AIDS in border areas due to an increasing number of inbound foreigners every year, as well as other reasons such as armed conflict, particularly in Myanmar, according to the provincial health authority.

This has resulted in shortages of talent and funding, making HIV/AIDS control and prevention in border areas a serious issue, it said in a statement.

Exit-entry inspection and quarantine authorities in the province conducted more than 128,000 voluntary HIV tests on inbound and outbound travelers between January and October, and detected 1,034 cases of foreigners infected with HIV, according to the provincial health authority.

There were 12,000 HIV-positive foreigners reported in Yunnan between 1989 and the end of October, it said. More than 80 percent were from Myanmar, followed by Vietnam and Laos.

Males accounted for 62.3 percent of the total number, and 62.1 percent were farmers, followed by those involved in transporting goods by water or road, according to the provincial commission.

"We have prioritized border areas for combating HIV/AIDS, and the rising HIV prevalence there has been curbed," the statement said.

Incidences of new infections among key groups, such as foreign sailors and cross-border truck drivers, continue to decline, it added.

The province will intensify cooperation with neighboring countries in HIV/AIDS control, including cooperation in law enforcement, as well as try to reach more consensus in areas including border control and improving publicity about controlling and preventing infectious diseases and related laws and regulations, the provincial commission said.Prince Harry seems more confident and happy than ever before as the father to a new baby boy and over a year into his marriage with the Duchess of Sussex. The Prince, who was formerly the most famous royal bachelor in the world, has settled down with former actress Meghan Markle after a whirlwind romance and a wedding watched by over a billion people.

Prince Harry is also bringing a new brand of openness and warmth to his role as a member of The Firm, speaking frankly about his late mother, Princess Diana, mental health, discrimination and his deep affection for his wife.

He's also slipped in some digs about his brother Prince William's baldness. As he turns 35, here are a few of our favourite Prince Harry quotes.

Prince Harry quotes

Prince Harry on having a baby

"It's been the most amazing experience I could ever possibly imagine. How any woman does what they do is beyond comprehension."

Getty Images

Were both absolutely delighted to be here [in Australia] and really impressed to see you serving beer and tea at an afternoon in true Aussie style. We also genuinely couldnt think of a better place to announce, uhthe, uhthe upcoming baby. Boy or girl.

Prince Harry on becoming a father

Dominic Lipinski/PA

Parenting is amazing. Its only been what, two and a half days, three days, but were just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy. We have to spend some precious time with him as he slowly starts to grow up.

Prince Harry on Meghan Markle

"When did I know she was 'The One?' The very first time we met".

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at the Royal Variety Show / REUTERS

"This beautiful woman just literally tripped and fell into my life."

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on their official tour / Getty Images

"I know that at the end of the day, she chooses me. I choose her. Whatever we have to tackle will be us together as a team."

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on their wedding day (Getty)

"I was beautifully surprised when I walked into that room and saw her. I thought, I'm really gonna have to up my game, sit down and make sure I have good chat. She's capable of anything."

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry leave St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle / REUTERS

"If my mother was here now, she and Meghan would be thick as thieves."

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Australia / PA Wire/PA Images

"I'm s***ing it" - what Harry appeared to say to Meghan Markle after she'd walked up the aisle towards him on their wedding day (you can judge for yourself in the video above)

Jonathan Brady/AFP/Getty Images

Prince Harry on Diana

"My mother died when I was very young. I didn't want to be in the position I was in, but I eventually pulled my head out of the sand, started listening to people, and decided to use my role for good. I am now fired up and energized and love charity stuff, meeting people, and making them laugh."

A young Prince Harry with his mother (Getty)

"It's something my mother believed in: If you are in a position of privilege, if you can put your name to something that you genuinely believe in, you can smash any stigma you want, and you can encourage anybody to do anything."

Princes Harry and William on a ski trip with their mother Princess Diana / Reuters

"Every day, depending on what I'm doing, I wonder what it would be like if she was here, and what she would say, and how she would be making everybody else laugh. Who knows what the situation would be, what the world would be like, if she were still around.

Princess Diana meeting the public / Rex Features

Prince Harry on being a royal

Prince Harry on tour in Australia / AP

"To be honest, dinner conversations were the worst bit about being a child and listening to the boring people around me."

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on tour in Australia / Getty Images

"Part of my role and part of my job is to shine a spotlight on issues that need that spotlight, whether it's people, whether it's causes, issues, whatever it is."

Prince Harry / Reuters

Prince Harry on racism and unconscious bias

Just as stigma is handed down from generation to generation, your perspective on the world and on life and on people is something that is taught to you. Its learned from your family, learned from the older generation, or from advertising, from your environment. And, therefore, you have to be able to have a wider perspective.

Getty Images

Its the same as an unconscious bias  something which so many people dont understand, why they feel the way that they do. Despite the fact that if you go up to someone and say, What youve just said, or the way that youve behaved, is racist  theyll turn around and say, Im not a racist. Im not saying that youre a racist, Im just saying that your unconscious bias is proving that, because of the way that youve been brought up, the environment youve been brought up in, suggests that you have this point of view  unconscious point of view  where naturally you will look at someone in a different way. And that is the point at which people start to have to understand.

AP

You can only be taught to hate. What can we learn from nature? People always say, there is nature, then there is us. But we are part of it  we are nature. Unless we acknowledge we are part of this cycle, then were always going to be fighting against it. Inevitably, because were so good at destruction, well end up winning and nature might end up losing.

Prince Harry on mental health

"I never really dealt with what had actually happened. So there was a lot of buried emotion, and I still didn't even want to think about it."

Princess Diana on her first royal tour of Australia in 1983 / PA Archive/PA Images

"I really regret not talking about it. It is OK to suffer, but as long as you talk about it. It is not a weakness. Weakness is having a problem and not recognizing it and not solving that problem."

Harry with his brother William and father Prince Charles at his mother's funeral / AFP/Getty Images

My mother had just died, and I had to walk a long way behind her coffin, surrounded by thousands of people watching me while millions more did on television. I dont think any child should be asked to do that, under any circumstances. I dont think it would happen today.

Prince Harry as a baby with his mother Princess Diana (Getty)

"Losing your mother at such a young age does end up shaping your life massively, of course it does. And now I find myself trying to be there and give advice to other people who are in similar positions."

Prince Harry on William

Harry shares a joke with Meghan at Princess Eugenie's wedding (Getty)

"I think he definitely is brainier than I am, but we established that at school - along with his baldness."

Prince Harry on Queen Elizabeth

The Queen leaving a centenary reception / Getty Images

"[To a group of visitors at Buckingham Palace] If you suddenly bump into her in the corridor, don't panic. I know you will. We all do."D etectives investigating the rape of a young woman in east London today issued new CCTV footage of a suspect and warned he could strike again in the run up to Christmas.

The 22-year-old victim, who works in the local area, had met friends for an evening out and was setting off to go home in the early hours of November 9 when she was attacked in Hanbury Street, near Spitalfields market.

The woman was entering a building just after 2am when the heavily built man overpowered her and raped her in the buildings basement.

Police today said the man had left a bodywarmer and grey hat at the scene after he left.

Police want to speak to this man in connection with an alleged rape

CCTV images, released today, show the suspect walking unsteadily down Great Eastern Street before he hailed a black taxi in Shoreditch High Street.

Hunt: police want to speak to this man

DCI Neil Rawlinson, from the Mets Child Abuse and Sexual Offences Command, said: This was a horrific attack carried out by a violent predator on a young woman going about her lawful business in what is one of Londons most popular areas for late night socialising.

"It was a brutal assault that has left her very traumatised indeed.

The bodywarmer that the suspect left at the scene of the attack

He added: The concern is this man could do this again, particularly in the run up to Christmas when there will be a lot of people who have been socialising.A couple who hid cocaine in the lining of designer handbags in a bid to smuggle 1.2 million of the drug into the UK have been jailed for a total of 11 years.

Davide Fasano, 31, and his girlfriend Tania Michelle Cedeno-Piguave, 25, were stopped by Border Force officers at Gatwick Airport as they stepped off a plane from a week-long holiday in the Caribbean island of Aruba in July.

A sniffer dog went straight to Fasanos suitcase, which contained five new handbags and just a small amount of clothes. Officials discovered about 12kg of cocaine in the lining of the handbags and under a false bottom of the suitcase. Fasano, an Italian living in East Dulwich, initially claimed he had found the suitcase next to a bus stop in Aruba and had taken it for his Spanish girlfriend because her luggage was broken.

Questioned by National Crime Agency officers after their arrests, on July 6, the couple both denied any knowledge of the class A drugs. However, WhatsApp messages  included Fasano offering Cedeno-Piguave 3,000 to accompany him to Aruba and Cedeno-Piguave saying it would be dangerous  proved their involvement in the plot.

They both pleaded guilty to importing drugs and were jailed at the Old Bailey on Friday. Fasano was sentenced to six years and nine months in prison, and Cedeno-Piguave was jailed for four years and eight months.P olice have been ordered to pay 8,800 to the family of a teenage driver who died in a high-speed pursuit, after a judge ruled that officers had breached his human rights.

Matthew Seddon, 19, had taken cocaine and was not wearing a seatbelt when he sped away from Thames Valley police officers, reaching speeds of up to 109mph.

The teenager, who only had a provisional licence, had failed to stop for a police car with blue flashing lights, and was pursued for four minutes before losing control on the A33 near Reading.

He was catapulted through the window of his Ford Fiesta, suffering fatal injuries in the crash in February 2013.

Mr Seddons mother Julie Seddon and his partner, Bryony Morgan, sued the police, arguing that officers had breached his human rights by failing to protect his life.

Judge Heather Baucher, sitting at the Central London county court, ruled on Friday that Mr Seddon was mainly to blame for the fatal crash, driving at high speeds and refusing to stop.

He chose to speed off, not to stop and to continue to drive as he did, she said.

It also has to be remembered that he only held a provisional licence, did not wear a seat belt, and had traces of cocaine in his system.

But she ruled that Mrs Seddon and Ms Morgan  who was carrying her partners child at the time  were owed compensation due to the police force being in breach of its operational duty.

The judge said the pursuing police driver was only trained for standard responses, and was not authorised to go more than 20mph above the speed limit but went as fast as 95mph during the pursuit.

She ruled that the officer failed to perform at the level required, including failing to pass on key information to his control room which might have ended the chase.

The judge also criticised another police driver who positioned his almost-stationary car in the nearside lane of the A33.

No one knew the vehicle was there so the control room could not factor in its presence when considering whether the pursuit should be continued, said the judge.

She found that the positioning of the police car was foreseeably dangerous, and there was a realistic prospect the fatal crash would have been avoided if it had not been there.

Judge Baucher cut the damages award by 60 per cent to reflect Mr Seddons share of the blame, ordering Thames Valley Police to pay 4,800 to Mrs Seddon and 3,200 to Miss Morgan for the anguish and distress they suffered.M ichelle Obama delivered an empowering message to young women and discussed her proudest moments as she returned to a London secondary school she first visited in 2009.

The former US first lady visited Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School (EGA) in Islington on Monday, telling gathered schoolgirls that her relationship with the school has become a huge source of pride.

She said she almost broke down in tears when she was shown framed letters that she and the school have exchanged over the years.

Joined by former EGA pupils Winnie Mac and Letrishka Anthony and Nusrath Hassan, an alumnus of Mulberry School in east London, she delivered an inspirational message of hope for the future.

Michelle Obama hugs a schoolgirl at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in Islington / Lawrence Jackson

"Meeting the girls here and the girls at Mulberry reminded me how much courage and talent and hope there is," she said.

Discussing her proudest moments, Mrs Obama said raising daughters who have turned out sane came to mind.

Mrs Obama on a previous visit to Mulberry School in east London / Amanda Lucidon

Imagine being your age and having your father criticised in public, she said.

Imagine having your first boyfriend plastered all over the tabloids or going to prom with men with guns.

Mrs Obama at the event at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School / REUTERS

At the very age where they needed to just blend in they couldnt because he forced them into a light that made them stand out.

I had to be mum to them first and foremost make sure they had the attention of their mother while their mother was giving attention to the world.

Mrs Obama championed the importance of sisterhood and helping one another, adding theres no room for mean girls.

My girlfriends we rely on one another, she said.

Mrs Obama delivered a message of empowerment and discussed her proudest moments / REUTERS

I dont think children were made to be raised in isolation, we need help. We need to learn to ask for that help.

Sometimes we are socialised to think you have to do it alone. Ive done none of it alone.

I want you all to start practising that kind of sisterhood. We dont have the luxury of tearing each other down. Our job as women is to do our best at lifting each other up.

In our friendships and the way we treat other women. Theres no room for mean girls.

Mrs Obama has developed a special relationship with the school since her first visit in 2009 / Getty Images

Start now. Find somebody who is struggling and help them. If you see another girl alone and isolated you never know what they are going through.

One thing we can do better as women is we can take better care of each other.

I would encourage you to think about who you have influence over, I guarantee you there is someone who thinks you have power over the way the sun rises and sets.

"Its those small gestures which matter. Change happens every single day with those little things that would I would do, I would take them with me.

Vocalise within your communities what this means to you.

Try to change some hearts and minds so that the next little girls dont come up against those same barriers that you did.

Mrs Obama told pupils that the world is changing for women, and spoke of the inspiration she has felt meeting the young people who are bringing about that change across the world.

She said: "On a personal level I was moved and touched and inspired as I always am by the young people I meet around the world. It gives me a level of focus and determination when I get to see you all up close.

"And as I said then, you remind me of me and all the fears and all the challenges that you face. You give me a sense of comfort because being first lady wasn't the easiest job in the world but I got strength from you so thank you all for that, thanks for giving me that."

Later Mrs Obama will discuss her memoir Becoming in front of a live audience at the Southbank Centre.

The talk will cover: "Her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her years as an executive, balancing the demands of motherhood and work, to her time spent at the world's most famous address."

She will speak alongside Nigerian novelist and moderator for the evening, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, whose work has examined post-colonialism and feminism.

Mrs Obama's autobiographical memoir sold two million copies within just a few weeks of its publication, with publishers Penguin Random House claiming it has become the biggest selling book of 2018 in the US and Canada.G overnment spads are becoming increasingly concerned about secret Brexit meetings held with both ministers and civil servants present, but at which no record of what has been said is made.

The Government has relied on various subcommittees of ministers and civil servants to deal with Brexit since Article 50 was triggered in March 2017. It was in these meetings, for instance, that Attorney General Geoffrey Cox reportedly first aired the legal worries about Britains ability to exit the backstop. However, after the Chequers summit a core group of Theresa Mays advisers and her remaining ministers have held weekly meetings, often with civil servants.

Since the new parliamentary term, Robbie Gibb (Mays communications director), David Lidington (minister for the Cabinet Office), Chief Whip Julian Smith and Gavin Barwell (her chief of staff) have called together a small group including Geoffrey Cox, Michael Gove, Dominic Raab and Jeremy Hunt. The Civil Services chief Brexit negotiator Olly Robbins attended on at least two occasions (once via phone from Brussels).

These are not Cabinet meetings technically, but they are held in a Cabinet meeting room within the presence of officials, our source tells us.

You dont get minutes from the political Cabinet but this is not political because there are civil servants present. I have never seen minutes from these meetings.

The Governments reliance on secrecy will be scrutinised again today when Cox takes questions from Parliament over the legal advice the Cabinet has refused to publish. Labour is expected to push for the Government to be found in contempt of Parliament.

Martin Stanley, a former senior official who has published guides on Civil Service protocols, says this is extremely unorthodox. [It] sounds very odd to me and not at all good, he says. Ultimately, you do what ministers say but if I was attending those meetings I would be making my own notes of what has been decided.

Another insider is blunter: In terms of democracy this feels like a scandal.

Post-strike regret

Alan Johnson, a former postman who became Labour Home Secretary, says that he wouldnt have joined the 1971 postal strike if hed known what he does now: that it would delay the release of Nick Drakes Bryter Layter album.

Johnson, later head of the Communication Workers Union, writes in The New Statesman that he learnt of the LPs postponement from author David Hepworth.

Im sure that if the 250,000 members of the Union of Post Office Workers knew they were engaged in such cultural vandalism they would have thought twice about going on strike, Johnson writes.

Alan Johnson / Getty Images

--

Where did one particular lavatory cartoon go after last months auction of the effects at Annabels? Regulars enjoyed HM Batemans picture of a pilot crashing his Spitfire into his betrotheds house. We got more inquiries about that than anything else, says a source. Sadly it was only a copy and wasnt for sale.

--

How will Carole Middleton prepare a vegan Christmas? You can make pretty much everything with alternatives now, vegan Mary McCartney tells us. The photographer daughter of veggie queen Linda says: Some people [ask], Why are you trying to fake something? but a burger or a sausage is the shape of something. What its made of doesnt matter.

Big-top pressure

Zut alors!: Pamela Anderson protesting for animal rights in Paris last month. / AFP/Getty Images

Pamela Anderson is seeking a tete-a-tete with Emmanuel Macron. The actor and close friend of Julian Assange has been writing to the French President again, this time about the treatment of animals in French circuses (she had previously written to Macron about veganism). Shed like to visit the Elysee Palace, she tells him, to discuss a national ban  a measure that would put an end to this archaic suffering, she wrote in French. Macron, who last week was filmed fronting up Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the G20 in Argentina, is back in France dealing with furious fuel tax protesters who are torching cars

My, my, how could they resist him? Sir Derek denied a Mamma Mia! part

Sir Ian McKellen and Sir Derek Jacobi (Photo: Dave Benett/Getty Images) / Dave Benett/Getty Images for The

London has been denied a theatre triumph: Sir Derek Jacobi joining the cast of Abba jukebox musical Mamma Mia!

The idea was floated by Sir Ian McKellen, who offered 5,000 to witness his friend take the role in a charity auction. Alas, he was outbid. But it was all for a good cause: the thespians were at The Ivy for its annual One Night Only fundraiser in aid of Acting For Others, which sees actors switch places with waiting staff.

Also on offer in the auction was dinner and a theatre trip with Samantha Bond  Miss Moneypenny to Pierce Brosnans 007.

It reached a good price despite auctioneer Jim Carters humorous insistence that Bond has the table manners of a sow in a trough.

Gaia Wise, daughter of Greg Wise and Emma Thompson, spent much of her maitre d shift propping up the bar with Jeremy Irvine. She even gave his hair a dutiful tidy when a diner asked for a selfie.

SW1A

Prepare for the return of sacked former minister Priti Patel. She has hired wunderkind aide James Starkie, who resigned from a similar role with Michael Gove a fortnight ago, unable to stomach Theresa Mays proposed Brexit deal. Elsewhere, Politico reports, Liz Trusss press secretary Jason Stein has been poached by Amber Rudd, recently elevated to Secretary of State at DWP. Truss will be putting a new aide on her Christmas list.

Comeback kid? Priti Patel (Photo: Carl Court/Getty Images) / Getty Images

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamsons own defences are down. Got a cold. Lemsip needed, he told his Instagram followers. Thinking about it, I might actually have flu! Oh no!

--

On Friday, universities minister Sam Gyimah resigned, citing issues with Mays Brexit deal. In line with staff regulations, his personal effects  two boxes and a framed photo from Nasa  were returned to his home within 24 hours of my resignation. Gyimah noted: Civil service at its most efficient.

Quote of the DayL ondon mayor Sadiq Khan has said police officer numbers in the capital could drop to their lowest level since 2002 unless urgent action is taken to stop financial cuts.

Mr Khan claimed Metropolitan Police numbers could drop to 26,800 should further savings be demanded from the force.

His comments come ahead of a meeting with Home Secretary Sajid Javid on Tuesday to discuss the police funding settlement for 2019-20.

Ahead of this, Mr Khan has said he is genuinely concerned over safety in the city should the officer figures plummet as he predicts they could.

Sadiq Khan has said he is "genuinely concerned" over safety if the figures plummet / PA

"The causes of violent crime are extremely complex, but there is no doubt it has been made far worse by huge government cuts to the police and youth services, he said.

"Even the Home Secretary has finally admitted that the Met won't be able to tackle violent crime without more funding from the Government.

Mr Khan called on the Government to provide further support for his force by reducing the figure it is being forced to cut from its budget.

The mayor called on the Government to reduce the cuts being asked of the Met / Getty Images

Mr Khan said: "Now we urgently need to see action to avoid officer numbers falling even further.

"Government cuts have led to London losing 3,000 police officers and more than 3,000 PCSOs and 5,000 police staff and I'm genuinely concerned about how we keep Londoners safe with officer numbers as low as 26,800.

"Ministers need to reverse the 1 billion savings forced on the Met and reverse their cuts on youth services and other preventative services so that we can keep our city safe."

The Met is required to make a further 335 million worth of savings by 2022, Mr Khan's office said.

Sadiq Khan is set to meet with Home Secretary Sajid Javid on Tuesday / Getty Images

The figures were based on "updated and detailed" calculations by the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime, ahead of the Mayor's next budget.

The figure is 10 million more than previous forecasts, the officials said.

With this, they stated it could lead to officer numbers falling to their lowest level since 2002.

The budget forecast also accounts for a change in police pensions, which will require Scotland Yard to meet an increase in its annual pension bill of 104 million from 2020.

That amount is equivalent to more than 1,700 officers, the Mayor's office added.

The mayors team said the calculations were made on the basis Mr Khan will increase the policing element of the council tax precept by 5.1%, or 12 per household.

Doing so would raise an additional 49 million, equivalent to 800 police officers salaries, the office said.

On Friday, Mr Khan dismissed a reported 600 million funding boost for police in England and Wales, as he warned more than that is needed to tackle the upsurge in violent crime.

It was also reported that Home Secretary Mr Javid had secured an agreement to allow local authorities to double the amount they can add to council tax bills for policing.

Chancellor Philip Hammond, along with Communities Secretary James Brokenshire. were said to have provisionally agreed authorities can increase the precept charge on council tax bills from 1 a month to 2 a month.T heresa May is facing another challenging week in her battle to save her Brexit plan as the final countdown to the crucial Commons vote on December 11 begins.

The Prime Minister, back from the G20 summit in Argentina, is likely to have several hurdles to overcome this week as she aims to win backing for her deal.

Here is how the coming days are expected to play out:

Legal advice battle

The first issue facing Mrs May this week will be the intensifying demands for the Government to release the full legal advice on the Withdrawal Agreement.

TODO: define component type apester

On Monday, Attorney General Geoffrey Cox will attempt to head off a threat by opposition parties to initiate proceedings against the Government for contempt of Parliament, and will make a statement and answer MPs' questions in the House in an attempt to address MPs' concerns.

Ministers have been accused of ignoring the will of the House after saying they will publish only a "full reasoned political statement" on the legal position concerning the Withdrawal Agreement.

Tough week ahead: Theresa May / AP

The DUP - which props up the Conservative Government in the Commons - was said to be ready to sign a joint letter with other parties to Speaker John Bercow on Monday unless ministers back down.

Any finding against the Government would be potentially highly damaging for Mrs May at a time when she is at her most vulnerable politically.

Five days of debate

On Tuesday, MPs will begin five days of debate on the Brexit agreement ahead of the Commons vote.

These debates will be key for Mrs May, with a significant number of MPs having already expressed their opposition to the deal.

Shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer has said if the deal is rejected, Labour will table a no-confidence motion in an attempt to force a general election.

It has also been reported that the DUP is considering abandoning the Government in the event of a confidence vote, despite its "confidence and supply" agreement.

Article 50 challenge

Also on Tuesday, the Advocate General of the European Court of Justice is due to publish his non-binding opinion on whether the UK can unilaterally revoke Article 50.

Triggered by the UK Government on March 29 2017, Article 50 governs the two-year negotiating period for countries leaving the EU.

Back to the chamber

Mrs May will face Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday. It will likely mean more tough questions from both the opposition and within her own ranks.

TV debate?

Mrs May could also go head-to-head with Jeremy Corbyn in a televised debate ahead of the Commons vote.

The BBC is planning to screen the showdown on Sunday evening - although doubts have been growing over whether it will go ahead amid continued wrangling between the Conservatives and Labour over the format.

Over the weekend, Mr Corbyn said he was prepared to accept Downing Street's preferred option of the BBC proposal, provided it was a straight head-to-head discussion between the two leaders.

But Number 10 said the PM was determined to stick to the original BBC plan, which also involves the leaders taking questions from a wider panel.

Meanwhile, leading Tory Eurosceptics have said a senior Brexiteer should be included in the main line-up, and not just on the proposed panel.

More resignations?

With the departure of universities and science minister Sam Gyimah over the weekend, Mrs May will be hoping to survive the week without anyone else following suit.T heresa May today refused twice to say her Brexit deal would ensure the country will be better off in future.

Asked on ITVs This Morning to assure the nation that it would be more prosperous under her leaving agreement, the Prime Minister replied: We can be better off.

When presenter Phillip Schofield asked her to say we will be better off, Mrs May replied: Thats up to us.

The Prime Ministers uncertain words came with just over a week to go before MPs vote in the Commons on whether to endorse her agreement on the terms for Britain to leave the bloc, plus an outline declaration on possible future trade terms.

Sajid Javid / EPA

She also appeared to have given up attempting to unveil a tough clampdown on low-skilled immigration ahead of the Brexit vote. Home Secretary Sajid Javid today admitted it was very unlikely that the long-delayed White Paper setting out a future immigration system would be revealed before it.

As revealed by the Standard last week, Mrs May is being defied by at least three Cabinet members including Mr Javid, who want low-skilled workers from overseas to be allowed in to prevent gaps in the workforce for sectors like social care and hospitality.

Its unlikely, actually very unlikely, to be published before the vote, Mr Javid told Radio 4s Today programme. It will be published soon. Previously the Home Secretary has said he thought it would come in time for MPs to weigh it up before voting on Brexit.

Defending the delay, he said: This is the biggest change in our immigration system in over four decades  the most significant change were going to see in immigration as we take control of our immigration system, so its important that we work on the details, that we listen to people, to businesses and others and we get the details right. Downing Street today defied warnings it will be held in contempt of Parliament by refusing to publish full legal advice about Mrs Mays Brexit deal.

Attorney General Geoffrey Cox was giving the Commons a pared-down statement setting out only what the Government was prepared to reveal it was told. But pressure increased after a new apparent leak in todays Daily Telegraph, which said Mrs Mays chief Brexit adviser Olly Robbins warned her the so-called backstop risked a bad outcome in which regulatory checks would be required across the Irish Sea and security co-operation would be in danger. Boris Johnson threw his weight behind calls for the full legal advice to be published, claiming in his column in the paper: This legal question is more important even than the Iraq war.T he governments new Brexit secretary made an unfortunate blunder when he managed to get the date of the UK leaving the EU wrong.

Stephen Barclay, who was parachuted into the job last month after the resignation of Dominic Raab, said on Monday that the UK is leaving the EU on March 31 next year, rather than the actual date of March 29.

Mr Barclay made the gaffe in the Commons as he answered questions from the Exiting the European Union Committee on the UK's future trading relations with Brussels.

Mr Barclay said: "It is the legal process in Europe that a permanent relationship, a permanent trade arrangement, cannot be reached until we have left.

New Brexit secretary Stephen Barclay / Getty Images

"And, I am committed to ensuring, and the Prime Minister is committed to ensuring, that we do deliver on that - we do leave the EU on March 31.

"And, by that point we are then in a position to be able to agree a trade agreement. But we can't do that before we have left."

Mr Barclay managed to get his dates right when he urged MPs to back the government's Brexit deal in a crunch Commons vote next week.

Asked if the vote would be cancelled in the face of widespread opposition, Mr Barclay said: "No, I think the vote will happen on Tuesday."

Prime Minister Theresa May warned Mr Barclay, when he was appointed last month, that she would be in charge of negotiations.Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen visited the panda twins, Fu Feng and Fu Ban, at Zoo Vienna on Saturday to say goodbye as the pandas will return to Sichuan province, the hometown of giant pandas in China on Sunday.

Fu Feng and Fu Ban, who were born in August 2016 in Austria, will travel by plane from Vienna via Frankfurt to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province. They have finished their weeks long training for their journey, according to the zoo.

"The time with the twins is gone. It seems to me as if it had been yesterday that the two still cuddled with their mother Yang Yang in the box. They have given us many great moments, "said CEO of Zoo Vienna, Dagmar Schratter.

The panda twins have lived in Vienna with their mother Yang Yang for over two years. In the field, panda cubs leave their mothers at this age and seek their own territory.

Yang Yang is seen as a super mother, with Long Hui, the father of the twins, she gave birth to 5 cubs. Their rearing was a sensation -- for the first time a panda mother in captivity raised twins without human help. But Long Hui died of cancer in December 2016.

Yang Yang's Fu Long, Fu Hu and Fu Bao -- the three male cubs, were all back to their hometown in China after two years old.

A zookeeper will accompany the twins to China and help them settle in their new home.

According to the contract with China, the panda cubs should be returned to China after two years old.A ttorney General Geoffrey Cox told opposition MPs to "grow up and get real" because the full Brexit legal advice has been withheld to guard the public interest during a heated row in the House of Commons.

Opposition parties in the Commons - including Theresa May's DUP allies - have today written a joint letter to Speaker John Bercow urging him to launch contempt of Parliament proceedings over the issue.

It comes after MPs voted last month to require the government to publish "any legal advice in full".

They said a 43-page summary and a statement by Mr Cox had failed to meet the terms of the vote.

However Mr Cox launched into an angry tirade on Monday, telling MPs: In this case to disclose any advice that might have been given would be fundamentally contrary to the interests of this country.

Its no use the baying and shouting of members opposite, he continued. What I am trying to do is guard the public interest. Thats all.

The letter to Mr Bercow has been signed by shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer, DUP Westminster leader Nigel Dodds and senior MPs from the SNP, Liberal Democrats, Plaid Cymru and Green Party.

Sir Keir tweeted: "The government has failed to publish the Attorney General's full and final legal advice to the Cabinet, as ordered by Parliament.

"We have therefore been left with no option but to write to the Speaker of the House of Commons to ask him to launch proceedings of contempt."

At a rowdy session of parliament, Mr Cox outlined the legal advice, including over a "backstop" arrangement to prevent the return of a hard border between Northern Ireland and EU member state Ireland if a future UK-EU trading deal is not reached in time.

"This deal ... is the best way I firmly believe of ensuring that we leave the European Union on March 29," Mr Cox said. "This is the deal that will ensure that happening in an orderly way with legal certainty."

However many Brexit supporters fear the so-called backstop for Northern Ireland risks tying Britain into the EU's customs union indefinitely.

"The legal summary document is worse than we feared: the backstop customs union is indefinite, the UK would be a rule taker and the European Court (of Justice) is in charge of our destiny, rather than the sovereign UK parliament," former Brexit minister David Davis said. "This is not Brexit."

The DUP, which props up Mrs May's minority government, went further.

Deputy leader Mr Dodds said: "The overall context of this is ... a deeply unattractive, unsatisfactory presentation and he (Cox) needs to therefore rather than recommend this agreement, recommend that it is rejected."S uzanne Evans has announced she is quitting Ukip in a fiery statement claiming the party is becoming a successor to the British National Party.

The former leadership candidate said she feels as though she has no option but to leave the party because she is in disgust at the radical change in Ukips direction.

In an impassioned post, Ms Evans hit out at the partys leader, Gerard Batten, and the decision to appoint former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson as an adviser.

She wrote: The NEC and Ukip MEPs might be willing to turn a blind eye to the obvious attempts by Gerard and Tommy Robinson to orchestrate a Momentum-style takeover of Ukip, but I am not.

Having planned to simply let my membership lapse in March, when it is due for renewal, I have today cancelled it instead.

I joined Ukip because it was a Brexit party, and because I wanted a referendum on our EU membership.

Mr Robinson / REUTERS

I would never have joined Ukip as it stands today, obsessed as it is with becoming a successor to the BNP and the EDL, and putting an increasingly hostile and vicious focus on attacking the Muslim community en masse.

I am very proud of my work with Ukip in the past, and all I have previously helped the party achieve. I have no regrets on that front whatsoever.

However, the time has most definitely come to completely sever my connection to Ukip because, quite simply, it is no longer the party I joined, and it is not now one I want any part of.

Ms Evans added she will continue to campaign for the UK to leave the EU.

A video still of Gerard Batten's BBC interview in which he defended Tommy Robinson's appointment as an advisor / BBC

The 53-year-old becomes the latest person to leave the party, following on from MEP Patrick OFlynn's high-profile departure.

The politician, who has represented the party in Europe since 2014, left amid Mr Battens growing fixation with Mr Robinson.

He had previously supported a ban on former BNP and EDL members joining the party including Mr Robinson.

Last week, Mr Robinson was appointed as an adviser to Mr Batten.

The controversial activist, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is set to advise Mr Batten on rape gangs and prison reform.T heresa May's Government is at risk of being declared in contempt of Parliament in a row over the publication of the full legal advice for her Brexit deal.

Labour has warned The Prime Minister that she risks creating a "constitutional crisis" if the full legal texts are not released.

Mrs May is set for a major Commons battle over the publication of the advice with opposition parties threatening to initiate proceedings against the Government for contempt of Parliament.

Ministers have been accused of ignoring the will of the House after saying they will publish only a "full reasoned political statement" on the legal position concerning the Withdrawal Agreement.

Theresa May will give a statement in the Commons on Monday / REUTERS

Attorney General Geoffrey Cox will on Monday make a statement on the advice. Mrs May will also address the Commons later to give an update after the G20 summit but talk will no-doubt turn to Brexit.

Attorney General Geoffrey Cox will head off opposition in the Commons today / AFP/Getty Images

MPs from across Parliament have argued that they are required to release the full advice - including Mr Cox's legal opinion - following a binding vote last month.

Ministers chose not to oppose the motion - tabled by Labour under an arcane procedure known as the humble address - as they feared a damaging Commons defeat.

Mr Cox will also answer MPs' questions in the House in an attempt to address their concerns.

However shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer has warned Labour will join with other opposition parties in writing to Speaker John Bercow to initiate contempt proceedings if the advice is not released.

Worryingly for ministers, Labour says it has the support of the DUP - who prop up the Government in the Commons - as well as the SNP and the Liberal Democrats, while many Tory MPs are also demanding to see the advice.

In his weekly column in The Daily Telegraph, Boris Johnson said it was a "scandal" that ministers were withholding the full advice.

"It is outrageous that the public should be prevented from knowing the full legal implications of this appalling deal - when it is their rights, their freedoms, their hard-won suffrage, that are about to be bartered away," he said.

Speaking at the weekend, Sir Keir warned the Government was setting itself on a "collision course" with Parliament if it did not back down.

"If it is now moving into the territory of ignoring Parliament altogether and breaching an order of Parliament, then we're getting to very, very deep water," he said.

His shadow cabinet colleague Barry Gardiner told the BBC's Andrew Marr show that Mrs May faced a "very serious constitutional crisis" if she refused to publish the advice, and the only answer was a general election.

Under Commons rules, if the Speaker allows a contempt motion to go before the House and the vote is carried, it would then be referred to the Committee of Privileges.

If the committee rules a contempt has occurred, it can recommend a suitable punishment which is then put back to MPs to agree.

TODO: define component type apester

In theory, the most severe penalty is expulsion from the House, although the prospects of that happening would appear remote.

However any finding against the Government would be potentially highly damaging for Mrs May at a time when she is at her most vulnerable politically.

The clash comes as MPs prepare to begin five days of debate on the agreement, starting on Tuesday and culminating in the vote on December 11, which could decide the fate of her deal and ultimately her Government.

Sir Keir said that if it was voted down, Labour would table a no confidence motion in an attempt to force a general election.

Environment Secretary Michael Gove / Getty Images

His warning came as The Times reported that the DUP was considering abandoning the Government if there was a confidence vote, despite their "confidence and supply" agreement.

Despite dozens of Tory MPs lining up to oppose the agreement, Environment Secretary Michael Gove said he believed the Government could still win, although he acknowledged it would be challenging.

Mr Gove, one of the leaders of the Leave campaign in the 2016 referendum, urged fellow Brexiteers to back the agreement warning the alternative was "no deal or no Brexit".

He said that if the Government lost the vote there was a "real risk" there could be a majority in the Commons for a second referendum.

Meanwhile Mrs May's chief Brexit adviser secretly warned her that the Northern Ireland "backstop" agreed in her deal with Brussels was a "bad outcome" for Britain, it has been reported.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, Oliver Robbins said the backstop, intended to prevent the return of a hard border with the Republic, would mean the imposition of regulatory checks between the North and the rest of the UK, according to The Daily Telegraph.

The disclosure will add to the pressure on the Prime Minister at the start of another difficult week as she battles to save her Brexit deal ahead of the crucial Commons vote.

The paper, which said it had been passed details of the letter by a "concerned minister", said Mr Robbins had advised there was no legal "guarantee" Britain would be able to exit the backstop, potentially leaving the UK tied to EU customs arrangements.

He was said to have written: "We should not forget that the backstop world, even with a UK-EU customs union, is a bad outcome with regulatory controls needed somewhere between GB and NI, serious and visible frictions and process between GB and the EU, and no security co-operation provided for."T he only valid option for Brexit is to have a second referendum where voters choose between remain or a hard Brexit, according to former Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Speaking exclusively to Mondays Good Morning Britain, the former Labour leader said we have a division in Parliament and that he cant see a way out of this without a second vote.

Mr Blair said the only thing that would be regarded as valid is going back to the people, but was unsure what the question on ballot papers would be.

He said: I think basically because the referendum didnt settle it. Youve now got a situation where theres a division in parliament, in the government, even in the Cabinet, certainly in the country  youve got two different versions of Brexit on offer.

Former Prime Minister Tony Blair appeared on Good Morning Britain on Monday to discuss a second Brexit vote / ITV

Personally, I think the only way to resolve this is to have the option either remain, or alternatively leave but leave on terms that makes it clear this is hard Brexit, youre leaving in the way that those whove most ardently argued for Brexit want.

Mr Blair criticised Mrs Mays deal, claiming it yields far too much with far too little in return, but said he sympathises with her.

He added: Shes actually a perfectly reasonable person, surrounded by a lot of unreasonable people frankly.

But he brushed off suggestions that another vote would be a crash out option, adding: Of course, you only come to another referendum with huge hesitation because people have already had a vote.

Theresa May said at the G20 she does not believe her premiership will end with Brexit / REUTERS

But I cant see a way out of this that resolves the issue genuinely because if you go ahead with her version of Brexit  which I dont think parliament will vote for  but if we did, were going to be arguing about this in the same way in a years time.

TODO: define component type apester

Mr Blair said there was zero chance of him returning to the Labour leadership, and said he can imagine hes the last person whose advice Jeremy Corbyn would want on Brexit.

Asked if the two options are hard out or stay in, he said: Yeah, because if youre going to do Brexit, Ive thought a lot about this, its a very, very difficult thing to say if youre passionately in favour of us remaining in the European Union which I am, but I honestly think if youre going to leave, leave, dont do this halfway house.M Ps on all sides should unite to prevent a no-deal Brexit, senior Labour MP Yvette Cooper argues in todays Evening Standard.

The former Cabinet minister said Parliament had to take control because Theresa May had done so little to build trust or confidence so far.

In her article, she writes: Knowing Theresa May for over 20 years, I dont believe she is the kind of Prime Minister who will in the end let no deal happen.

"She takes the security and economic risks seriously. But I also dont think we can afford to take the chance.

Theresa May on ITV's This Morning / ITV

Ms Cooper is backing a cross-party amendment tabled by fellow Labour MP Hilary Benn that would put Parliament in charge if Mrs Mays deal is voted down.T heresa May today predicted she will still be in her job in a fortnight  a possible sign she is planning a second Commons vote on her Brexit deal if it is defeated in eight days.

The Prime Minster was pressed by Phillip Schofield on ITV's This Morning who asked: "In two weeks time, will you be booking a holiday, do you think you'll still have a job in two weeks time?"

Laughing, she assured him that she would still be in her post, adding: "My job is to ensure we do what the public asked us to."

I will still have a job in two weeks time, she told ITVs This Morning, calling on MPs to hold our nerve.

The Prime Minister ducked direct questions if she would resign if her deal fell through, saying: Im focusing on, you know, getting that vote, and getting the vote over the line.

This is not a, sort of oh, well, its just any old vote. Actually, this is about delivering for what people voted for when they voted in that referendum to leave the EU.

She dismissed calls for a second referendum, but left the door open for a possible change of mind. But the Prime Minister twice refused to say her Brexit deal would ensure the country will be better off in future. Asked the first time, she said: We can be better off.

The prime minister appeared on This Morning on Monday / ITV

When presenter Phillip Schofield asked her to say we will be better off, Mrs May replied: Thats up to us.

Her uncertain words came with just over a week to go before MPs vote in the Commons on whether to endorse her agreement on the terms Britain will leave the bloc, plus an outline declaration on possible future trade terms.

Senior Labour MP Yvette Cooper appeals in tonights Standard for MPs on all sides to unite to prevent a no-deal Brexit. The former Cabinet minister said Parliament had to take control because Mrs May had done so little to build trust or confidence so far.

Ms Cooper also backed an extension of Article 50 to postpone Brexit, saying: This is a mess and we are going to need enough time to sort it out.

The Prime Minister appeared to have given up attempting to unveil a tough clampdown on low-skilled immigration ahead of the Brexit vote. Home Secretary Sajid Javid today admitted it was very unlikely that the long-delayed White Paper setting out a future immigration system would be revealed before it.

As revealed by the Standard last week, Mrs May is being defied by at least three Cabinet members including Mr Javid, who want low-skilled workers from overseas to be allowed in to prevent gaps in the workforce for sectors like social care and hospitality.

Its unlikely, actually very unlikely, to be published before the vote, Mr Javid told Radio 4s Today programme. It will be published soon. Previously the Home Secretary has said he thought it would come in time for MPs to weigh it up before voting on Brexit. Downing Street today defied warnings it will be held in contempt of Parliament by refusing to publish full legal advice about Mrs Mays Brexit deal.

Attorney General Geoffrey Cox was giving the Commons a pared-down statement setting out only what the Government was prepared to reveal it was told. But pressure rose after a new apparent leak in the Daily Telegraph, which said Mrs Mays Brexit adviser Olly Robbins warned the backstop risked a bad outcome in which regulatory checks would be needed across the Irish Sea and security co-operation would be at risk.

MPs will vote on December 11 on the deal with Michael Gove warning on Sunday that if the deal did not get enough support there is a chance of no Brexit at all or a second referendum.

Mrs May said: when it comes to the vote, I hope MPs will put the national interest first and recognise that we have a duty to do what the people asked us to.

During her appearance on This Morning she was asked about her testing role as prime minister.

She said: Politics is tough. Its the same as any other job. Philip is a huge support to me and he says I must do what I believe to be right. Its in the interests of people to get this deal and move on to the future.

Theresa May wants to be home in time for Strictly after Brexit debate

Responding to questions over a possible second referendum, she said: People are talking on a second vote when we havent even delivered on a first vote. We asked people to vote and we said please decide. People voted to leave and I think there is a democratic duty to deliver on it. So lets deliver on the first vote.

She was also asked about a televised television debate with Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn on Brexit which is penned for December 9.

TODO: define component type apester

Mr Corbyn said on Saturday that he was prepared to accept Downing Streets preferred option of the BBC, provided it was a straight head to head discussion between the two leaders.

The Labour leader had previously indicated his support for a rival ITV proposal based on a simple one-on-one format, in contrast to the BBC offer which also involves the leaders taking questions from a wider panel.M ichelle Obama delivered an "inspirational" speech to a sold-out Royal Festival Hall on London's Southbank as part of her tour for her best-selling memoir "Becoming."

The former First Lady of the United States was described as having "taken London by storm" by news anchor Jon Snow as she responded to questions in a Q&A session with author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

She tackled topics ranging from her parents to her rise to becoming arguably the most powerful woman in the world.

Speaking to the crowd of thousands at London's Southbank Centre, Mrs Obama told how her mother encouraged us to let our voices be heard saying: one of the things my parents believed was that my voice was relevant and my opinions were meaningful and my anger and frustration was real.

Michelle Obama at London's Southbank 1 /13 Michelle Obama at London's Southbank Michelle Obama in conversation with writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie at the Royal Festival Hall in Londo PA Former US first lady Michelle Obama spoke with Nigerian novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie AFP/Getty Images Earlier the former FLOTUS met with children at a school in Islington AFP/Getty Images Mrs Obama spoke to the crowd in London who gave her a rapturous reception Getty Images Mrs Obama gave the talk as she visited the UK to publicise her memoir Becoming PA Michelle Obama greets the crowd at the Royal Festival Hall PA The talk covered Michelle's "childhood on the South Side of Chicago" all the way to her rise as the wife of the president of the US PA Novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie moderated the talk Getty Images Mrs Obama's autobiographical memoir sold 2 million copies within just a few weeks of its publication Getty Images Penguin Random House said the book has become the biggest selling book of 2018 in the US and Canada Getty Images The audience at the Royal Festival Hall heard the stories and emotions behind the book Getty Images Tickets for the event at the Southbank Centre rapidly sold out Getty Images Mrs Obama addressed the live audience about her personal journey to becoming First Lady PA

My parents saw this flame in me. Instead of doing what we often do to girls who are feisty which is try to put that flame out to douse it because we are worried about them not being lady-like or being bossy. They found a way to keep that flame lit.

To have that flame lit in a girl you need to let that flame speak accordingly and learn how to use it.

The Q&A session was hailed by the crowd of thousands / PA

She said her family lived in a house where we didnt have much by way of resources and added: My father was a working class, blue collar guy. They had to work, but that doesnt mean they werent highly intelligent.

Thats often a mistake we make that working class folks arent highly gifted

We were expected to be excellent, it wasnt just from my mother and father.

Michelle Obama on stage at the Royal Festival Hall / AFP/Getty Images

Ahead of her arrival on stage the 2,700-strong crowd watched a short film chronicling Mrs Obamas life from growing up on South Side of Chicago through to university, meeting Barack, having her two daughters. The film also tackled some of the racism she faced on the presidential campaign trail.

Her mother, brother, two daughters and husband all featured in the video which had a soundtrack including hits from the Jackson Five, Chaka Khan, Whitney Houston, Lionel Richie and TLC.

Opening with her love of peanut butter she went on to talk about her working class upbringing, the difficulties of marriage and even how at times she wanted to push Barack out a window.

Mrs Obama said their father sacrificed a lot to get what we needed. Fraser C. Robinson died from MS in 1991.

She told the crowd: My father had Multiple Sclerosis and it is a devastating and debilitating disease that slowly takes away the persons ability to walk. It just gets worse and worse.

I remember watching my father decline. Im sure there is something in my personality...what happens to a kid when their parent is in a weakened state.

Mrs Obama on stage with Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie / AFP/Getty Images

How does that affect you even when your father is strong and loving and capable as a provider and goes to work every day? Theres a caution that comes in and I talk about how my brother and I we were really paranoid about fires because it really wasnt clear if a fire broke out in our apartment how we would get out.

So at a very young age we were thinking about getting my father out. My brother would have these fire drills where he would drag my father across the floor and he would allow it because he knew - it was funny - he would say pull faster, hurry up.

My mother would say be careful. But thats how we were always thinking that you have to have a plan. Im still that person to this day and I think its because of my fathers disability.

Earlier Mrs Obama visited the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School / REUTERS

I say all that to say all that while his death was sudden it was always looming for us because he was also the kind of man who wouldnt get help. He was proud and didnt believe in doctors. I had to watch him get increasingly worse.

She said her fathers death left her with an emptiness that she still cannot get rid of.

The exclusive London event, in front of a crowd of around 2,700 people, is Ms Obamas only stop outside her 13-day US roadshow.

She cancelled her visits to Paris and Berlin so she can attend the funeral of President George HW Bush who died on Friday aged 94.

Michelle Obama visits London school 1 /12 Michelle Obama visits London school Michelle Obama greets the audience at Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in London REUTERS Former US first lady Michelle Obama smiles during a visit to Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in London on December 3, 2018 AFP/Getty Images Michelle Obama fields questions from children at the school AFP/Getty Images Michelle Obama smiles as she shares the stage with executive headteacher Jo Dibb (L) and a former student AFP/Getty Images Michelle Obama laughs as she answers questions - she is to appear later at the Southbank centre in London AFP/Getty Images She discussed education issues during her tour to promote her memoir, "Becoming" AFP/Getty Images Michelle Obama speaks to children at the school in Islington REUTERS Mrs Obama paid an emotional visit to the school in 2009 REUTERS After her 2009 visit she said the school made her "fall back into my own past" AFP/Getty Images She visited Elizabeth Garrett Anderson again in 2011, taking a cohort of 30 students on a tour of Oxford University Getty Images In 2012 she invited 30 girls from the school to visit her at the White House AFP/Getty Images She delivered an empowered message to the girls saying there is no room in life for "mean girls" and women must support each other AFP/Getty Images

Ms Obama Tweeted yesterday: Its important to me to join the Bush family in celebrating President George H.W. Bushs exemplary life.

This will unfortunately preclude my visits to Paris and Berlin. Ive been deeply touched by the enthusiasm for my memoir, and Im working to reschedule my trip for next year.

I hope readers and ticket holders will understand my decision regarding my desire to attend President Bushs funeral, and join me in paying tribute to him and his tremendous contributions to our world.

The Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School in Islington is mentioned in her memoir. She said the school made her feel like her old self for first time since becoming first lady.

Tickets for the London appearance, ranging from 30 to 125, sold out within half an hour with some 60,000 people attempting to buy one. They were soon selling on third-party sites for more than 7,000.

A petition was set up to urge the Southbank Centre to live stream the event for disappointed fans.

One fan said on Twitter they would give an arm and a leg to see the talk, adding: I can only imagine what an interview this is going to be.A British woman abducted by pirates from an east African island has said a man convicted in connection with her husband's murder is innocent.

David Tebbutt, 58, was shot and killed when the group burst into the couple's villa at a remote resort in September 2011, while his wife Judith was abducted and taken to Somalia where she was held for more than six months before eventually being released.

Ali Babitu Kololo, who guided the kidnappers to the resort and the Tebbutts' location, was found guilty of robbery with violence, a spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said in 2013.

He was convicted following an investigation by the Kenyan authorities with assistance by officers from the Met's Counter Terrorism Command (SO15).

Judith's husband David Tebbutt, 58, was shot and killed in the kidnapping

Mrs Tebbutt says she believes Kololo is an innocent man who did not get a fair trial.

In an interview with BBC News, she said: "If there has been a miscarriage of justice, it needs to be investigated.

"If I had been murdered, David... he would be sat here now because he was a really good man, and he was an honourable man.

"And the honourable thing now to do is to hopefully get a fair trial for Mr Kololo."

She said a fair trial is "the least that he deserves", adding: "I think a wrong should be righted. And when I say wrong I mean the fact that Mr Kololo didn't have a fair trial."

The BBC also reported that former Met officer Detective Superintendent Neil Hibberd, who led the team from SO15, is under investigation.

Asked about an investigation into Mr Hibberd, the National Crime Agency said: "We can confirm that the NCA is carrying out a managed investigation on behalf of the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), relating to matters preceding the conviction of Ali Kololo in Kenya in 2013.

"This investigation follows a referral from the Metropolitan Police. We are unable to comment further while inquiries are ongoing."

Asked about an investigation into Mr Hibberd, the Metropolitan Police said: "In January 2016, the MPS received an allegation of misconduct against a then serving officer in MPS Specialist Operations.

"In March 2016, the MPS Directorate of Professional Standards referred this allegation to the IOPC.

"In December 2016, the IOPC referred the matter back to the MPS to deal with. However, following an appeal to the IOPC from the complainant in January 2017, the IOPC launched an independent investigation into the allegations in April 2017.

"In November 2017 the IOPC reviewed and changed this to a managed investigation. The MPS referred the managed investigation to the NCA in June 2018."

The Met said the investigation is ongoing, and therefore it would not be appropriate for them to comment further.

An IOPC spokeswoman said: "Since June 2018, the National Crime Agency has been conducting a managed investigation on our behalf.

"The investigation is examining the actions of a retired senior Metropolitan Police Service officer prior to the conviction of Ali Kololo in Kenya in 2013."

Mrs Tebbutt told the BBC: "Mr Neil Hibberd said to me that if it was the last thing that he did he would find the murderer of David and the people responsible for abducting me. And I believed him. I really believed him.

"I think they have to take ownership of what they did back in 2011 - the team that helped to convict Mr Kololo - an innocent man."

A small team of SO15 officers travelled to Kenya shortly after Mr Tebbutt's murder and matched footprints found on the beach after his wife's abduction to the shoes worn by Kololo when he was arrested shortly after the incident.

Officers also provided expertise in forensic evidence, assisted Kenyan prosecutors as they prepared for the trial and provided family liaison support to the family.

Kololo denied the charges against him.

The Tebbutts, from Bishop's Stortford, travelled to the resort, which is close to the African country's border with Somalia, after visiting the Masai Mara game reserve.

Mrs Tebbutt, a former social worker, was reported to have told Kololo's trial she immediately felt nervous about security after arriving at the beach resort for the two-week stay and was uneasy that she and her husband were the only guests.

The BBC said Mr Hibberd's lawyers told them that he intends to co-operate with the investigation.M I6 chief Alex Younger came out of the shadows today to recruit intelligence officers to pioneer new tradecraft for a fourth generation of espionage against Russia and other adversaries.

In only his second speech in four years as MI6 boss, Mr Younger stressed that it was locked in a fast-evolving technology race against foes, with a new focus on digital and data, and cyber now being its fastest growing directorate.

He particularly appealed to young people to join what he called the secret front line protecting Britain as it moves into an era of bulk data, modern analytics and machine-learning in a world where the lines between the physical, digital and biological become more blurred.

We are shifting our focus to the nexus between humans and technology, he said.

Alex Younger, chief of MI6 makes a rare public speech / REUTERS

The era of the fourth industrial revolution calls for a fourth generation espionage: fusing our traditional human skills with accelerated innovation, new partnerships and a mindset that mobilises diversity and empowers the young.

He also stressed that:

UK intelligence agencies had helped to thwart Islamic State terror attacks in France and Germany, as well as Britain, since his first speech in December 2016.

MI6 agents spying on IS had been killed and the UK, as well as its European and other allies, owe them a debt they can never truly know and never fully repay.

Despite Brexit, MI6 would seek to strengthen indispensable security ties across Europe.

The UK was ready at any time to respond to attacks like the Salisbury Novichok poisonings.

As a young MI6 officer he helped to bring Balkan war criminals to justice by penetrating an organisation intent on genocide.

Operational policy and practice had been improved since the early 2000s during which British spy chiefs tolerated inexcusable mistreatment of detainees held by other forces overseas, according to a report by Parliaments intelligence watchdog.

Speaking at St Andrews University, where he was a student, Mr Younger stressed that Britains intelligence and security services had to innovate faster than its adversaries, he added: We are determined to attract people with even higher levels of technical skill to join our ranks, in the best traditions of Q (the technology chief in James Bond movies).

But my organisation will need to adapt even faster if it is to thrive in the future. And that will require people with new perspectives, capable of harnessing their creativity in ways that we cant yet even imagine.

He explained that the new fourth generation of espionage involved deepening ties with allies to counter hybrid threats, mastering covert action in the data age, attaching a cost to malign activity by adversaries - such as the mass expulsion of Russian spies after the Salisbury Novichok poisonings - and innovating to ensure a technological edge.

He stressed that in the last two years MI6, MI5 and GCHQ had disrupted multiple serious IS attack plans that would have caused significant loss of life, including plots targeting France and Germany.

Some agents had paid the ultimate price after being caught by the terror organisation.

He also warned Russia and other states, who regard themselves as in perpetual confrontation with Britain, that it was determined to respond, even if not with military action, adding: We can do this to any opponent at any time and the aim was to ensure hostile actions are deemed not worth the risk.

Mr Younger also told how as a young SIS officer in the mid-1990s his first job was penetrating an organisation intent on genocide in the western Balkans.

It took me to places I never thought I would visit, often travelling under a false identity, he explained.

It involved many nights drinking obscure homemade alcohol, piecing together the intentions of the parties to that conflict, and allowing me to create the secret relationships necessary to provide the intelligence our country urgently needed.A British couple are overjoyed after officers from NYPD went above and beyond to help them to find their engagement ring after they dropped it in a grate in Times Square.

Holidaymakers John Drennan and Daniella Anthony got engaged during their trip to New York when Mr Drennan proposed in Central Park.

But the Peterborough couples holiday was blighted by bad luck when they lost the precious ring by dropped it in a grade in Times Square.

A CCTV video shows the heart wrenching moment the couple tried to retrieve the ring from the subway grate with dozens of passers-by trying to help them retrieve it.

Arrangements are being made to reunite the couple with the ring / NYPD News

The clip was shared by NYPD officers in the hope of finding the couple and quickly went viral, collecting nearly 20,000 retweets.

Officers were able to collect the missing jewellery, but could not find the engaged couple and had to put out another appeal.

On Sunday, the couple were told they were to be reunited with their ring as the NYPD tweeted: The (now) happy couple is back in their home country, but thanks to your retweets, they heard we were looking for them

Were making arrangements to get them their ring back. Congratulations!

The force later tweeted a picture of the happy couple.

Mr Drennan told the BBC: We are so happy, we cant believe it.

I want to clarify that I did not propose over a grate in Times Square  thats where we lost it.

Mr Drennan explained the proposal took place in Central Park, saying: The time was right. There were autumn leaves everywhere and not many people.

Miss Anthony had said yes, but said the ring was too big for her.

She said: I tried to tell John it was too big, but he insisted I wear it.

I told her it was fine, I was just happy to call her my fiancee after all this time, Mr Drennan added.

He said: We were walking back to the hotel. I can still visualise the ring. Bouncing once bouncing twice and then it was gone.

We just presumed it was gone. In the end, we had no choice but to walk away and try to enjoy the rest of our weekend.Police detained two people in Wenling, Zhejiang province, on Saturday night after an environmental protection inspector was run over and killed, the local government said on Sunday.

The suspects, surnamed Jiang and Wang, were inside the vehicle that hit Chen Ben, 30, an official at Wenling's environmental protection bureau, around 6 pm on Saturday, the local government's information office said in a post on its WeChat account.

Chen had been investigating a pollution case in Ruoheng township as part of an environmental protection enforcement team organized by the local environment and public security authorities, the post said.

Netizens including Chen's colleagues and friends left many comments on the post lamenting his passing and condemning the two suspects. The post had been read more than 100,000 times by Sunday afternoon.

"Chen is my classmate. I'm so sad and angry that we have lost such a young life. How can people commit such vicious crimes?" wrote one WeChat user.

"You always treated your work as the top priority and fought on the front line in investigating pollution. I will always remember your smiling face behind the goofy, round glasses," a colleague wrote.

"It is such a pity that we lost a hero who works on weekends. Public servants must remember to protect themselves first when performing their duties," one netizen wrote, while another added, "Such vicious crimes must be dealt with seriously and the suspects should face the maximum penalty."

It's not the first time inspectors have encountered violence during regular inspections since China's environmental authorities tightened supervision in recent years, including shutting down polluting companies.

In August, environmental protection officers in Shangluo, Shaanxi province, were besieged, verbally abused and beaten by construction workers during a nighttime inspection of dust and noise from construction sites.

In March last year, four inspectors checking a plant with many recorded pollution violations in Dangshan county of Suzhou, Anhui province, were beaten by the plant's owner. Two of the inspectors received serious injuries, according to the provincial environmental authorities. The owner was detained by the police.

In another case, a man surnamed Liu was sentenced to 15 months in prison in August for obstructing officers in their duties in Jinan, Shandong province. He led a group of people who beat environmental inspectors when they checked dust pollution levels in September 2015.A 69-year-old man who wanted to lower his age to improve his chances on dating apps has lost his court battle.

A Dutch court has rejected Emile Ratelband's request to shave 20 years off his age in the case that drew worldwide attention.

Rejecting his bid to lower his age on Monday, Arnhem court said in a statement: Mr Ratelband is at liberty to feel 20 years younger than his age and to act accordingly.

But amending his date of birth would cause 20 years of records to vanish from the register of births, deaths, marriages and registered partnerships.

This would have a variety of undesirable legal and societal implications.

Mr Ratelband tried to lower his age to boost his dating prospects / AP

The 69-year-old wanted to change his date of birth from March 11, 1949 to March 11, 1969, hoping that it would have given him an edge on dating apps such as Tinder.

He said: When I'm on Tinder and it says I'm 69, I don't get an answer. When I'm 49, with the face I have, I will be in a luxurious position.

Mr Ratelband had argued he did not feel 69 and said his request was consistent with other forms of acceptable personal transformations, such as the ability to change name or gender.

The court rejected that argument, saying that unlike in the case of a name or gender, Dutch law assigns rights and obligations based on age "such as the right to vote and duty to attend school.

If Mr Ratelband's request was allowed, those age requirements would become meaningless, it said.

Dutch media personality / Facebook/Emile Ratelband

The motivational speaker was undeterred by the court's rejection and vowed to appeal.

"This is great!" he said.

"The rejection of the court is great ... because they give all kinds of angles where we can connect when we go in appeal."

He said he was the first of "thousands of people who want to change their age".

The court said it acknowledged "a trend in society for people to feel fit and healthy for longer, but did not regard that as a valid argument for amending a person's date of birth".

Mr Ratelband claims he is victim to discrimination due to his age / AFP/Getty.Roland Heitink

Again insisting that his case has parallels with requests for name and gender changes, Mr Ratelband added: "I say it's comparable because it has to do with my feeling, with respect about who I think ... I am, my identity.

He had also argued that he had suffered from age discrimination, telling Dutch paper De Telegraaf: When Im 69, I am limited. If Im 49, then I can buy a new house, drive a different car.

I take more hay on my fork, he added.

The court said Mr Ratelband failed to convince the judges that he suffers from age discrimination.C hina today said it was working with the US towards wiping out contentious trade tariffs between the superpowers.

Its foreign ministry said President Xi Jinping and Donald Trump have instructed their economic teams to work towards removing the barriers that have been imposed in a tit-for-tat trade war that threatened to cripple business between the two largest economies.

The two leaders met over dinner on Saturday at the G20 summit in Argentina, revealing afterwards that they had agreed to a 90-day truce to try to negotiate a way out of the tariff war.

Earlier today, Mr Trump tweeted that China had agreed to cut its tariffs on cars from America.

He claimed that Beijing would reduce and remove the trade levies, which stand at 40 per cent.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang  at a daily news briefing in Beijing  then reportedly said that Mr Trump and Mr Xi had told their advisers to try to remove tariffs imposed between the countries.

The White House has not responded to the statement and no further details were forthcoming from Beijing.

If confirmed, the step would boost US manufacturers and business leaders worried that import taxes would drive some companies out of the market.

In the summer, China reduced tariffs on foreign car imports from 25 per cent to 15 per cent, but then imposed an extra 25 per cent levy on US-made cars.

Since July, America has increased tariffs on nearly $200 billion (156 billion) of Chinese goods, with 25 per cent added to the original 2.5 per cent levy on Chinese cars coming into the US.

After Saturdays dinner meeting in Buenos Aires, it was also announced that both sides will negotiate better protections to prevent intellectual property theft, one of President Trumps biggest complaints against China.

And US officials said Beijing had agreed to purchase a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial, amount of agricultural, energy, industrial, and other products from the United States to reduce the trade imbalance between our two countries.

US defence secretary James Mattis last night accused Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is at the summit, of trying to meddle in Americas mid-term elections.D ramatic images show high school students in Bordeaux running away from tear gas during a protest against the governments education reforms.

Photos from the French town show high school students blocking a road on Monday morning.

The students come from three schools in the city and are protesting against the reform of high schools.

Around 150 to 200 students are taking part in the demonstrations.

High school students block a road during a demonstration / AFP/Getty Images

According to local media, six people have been arrested, mainly for throwing objects at police officers.

One passerby was injured.

A riot police officer holds a flash ball gun during a demonstration against French government Education reforms / AFP/Getty Images

It comes after around 136,000 anti-government protesters took to the streets of France over the weekend in protests over the high cost of living and rising taxes.

Bordeaux was one of several cities where protests were held.

High school students block a road during a demonstration against French government Education reforms / AFP/Getty Images

On Saturday the walls of the citys cathedrals were spray painted with the slogan Macron resign.

According to Sudouest.fr, two people were arrested and six people were wounded, including a police officer.

A woman wearing a yellow vest and a Father Christmas hat walks away from tear gas / AFP/Getty Images

Around 300 tear gas bombs were fired.

On Monday, it was revealed that France's prime minister Edouard Philippe has been instructed by President Macron to meet with protest groups and opposition parties this week.

Mr Macron held an emergency meeting with Mr Philippe on Sunday and has not ruled out the possibility of imposing a state of emergency.

French ambulance drivers block traffic during a protest demonstration near the National Assembly in Paris / REUTERS

More anti-government protests have taken place in Paris on Monday.

Ambulance workers took to the streets and gathered close to the National Assembly in the downtown area of the capital to complain about changes to working conditions.N igeria's President Muhammadu Buhari has shut down rumours that he died and was replaced by a clone.

Rumours had been circulating on social media for months that Mr Buhari had died last year and been replaced by a lookalike from Sudan called Jubril.

I can assure you all that this is the real me. Later this month I will celebrate my 76th birthday. And Im still going strong! Mr Buhari told Nigerians in a town hall session in Poland, where he was attending a conference.

The rumours began when Mr Buhari, who is running for re-election in February, spent five months in Britain last year being treated for an undisclosed illness.

Nigeria's Presiddent Muhammadu Buhari denied claims he had died an been replaced by a Sudanese impostor / AFP/Getty Images

One theory widely aired on social media - and by some political opponents - was that he had been replaced by a lookalike from Sudan called Jubril.

Videos making the claim have been viewed thousands of times on YouTube and Facebook but, no evidence of the rumour being true has been presented.

One of the questions that came up today in my meeting with Nigerians in Poland was on the issue of whether Ive been cloned or not.P aramedics today clashed with riot police in France as dozens of ambulances joined ongoing anti-government protests.

The vehicles blocked a bridge leading to the National Assembly in Paris on Monday.

Lines of riot police officers stood in the rain to prevent the ambulance workers from getting too close to the building.

Ambulance drivers were also pictured facing off with officers during a demonstration at the Place de la Concorde.

French ambulance drivers face off with riot police in Paris / Reuters

It was the latest protest action that President Emmanuel Macron's government has faced in recent weeks.

The "yellow vest" movement is bringing together people from across the political spectrum complaining about France's economic inequalities and waning spending power.

Riot police lined up to prevent protesters moving further / REUTERS

Mr Macron, just back from the Group of 20 summit in Argentina, held an emergency meeting Sunday on security and the government has not ruled out the possibility of imposing a state of emergency.

On Saturday, more than 130 people were injured and 412 arrested Saturday in the French capital amid one of the nation's worst unrest in recent times.

Ambulances blocked a bridge near to the National Assembly / AP

Police responded with tear gas and water cannons, closing down dozens of streets and subway stations to contain the riot.

The rioting was the third straight weekend of clashes in Paris led by protesters wearing distinctive yellow traffic vests.

It is the latest anti-government action in France / AP

The protests began last month with motorists upset over a fuel tax hike and have grown to encompass a range of complaints that Mr Macron's government doesn't care about the problems of ordinary people. Other protests in France remained peaceful.

By Sunday, some of the most popular tourist streets in Paris were littered with torched cars and broken glass from looted shops and the Arc de Triomphe monument was tagged with graffiti.

During the paramedic protest on Monday, some demonstrators set fire to a small pile of debris and blocked traffic. One activist held up a sign reading "The State killed me" and others chanted "Macron resign!"

According to French media reports, students also joined the protest movement by blocking dozens of high schools across France, while clashes between protesters and police officers reignited on Monday on the Indian Ocean island of Reunion, where demonstrations have been particularly violent in recent weeks.

Prime Minister Edouard Philippe and Mr Macron have been lambasted for their handling of the crisis.

Philippe will try to defuse tensions this week before more possible protests this weekend, speaking with yellow vest representatives on Tuesday.

Members of the National Assembly will also hold talks on France's social crisis later this week. Meanwhile, trade union CGT has called for a day of protest across France on December 14.S pains ruling Socialist Party was reeling today after a far-Right party won seats in the first electoral test since Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez took power in June.

Socialists saw their support in Andalusia plummet  as the anti-immigration Vox party claimed 12 seats in the 109-member regional parliament.

It was the first time a far-Right party has won seats since the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.

Vox had not previously held any seats in any legislative body in Spain since its founding four years ago, and now has the key to forming a government in Spains most populated region, which has high unemployment and is the countrys main arrival point for migrants crossing the Mediterranean.

Now is the moment to say loud and clear who we are and that we have come to stay, a Vox candidate told supporters, who chanted Spain! Spain! Spain!

Andalusia has been a Socialist bastion for 36 years, but the party could lose control of the government if parties on the Right join forces to oust regional leader Susana Diaz.

The Socialists won the election, but saw support plummet to 33 seats, compared with 47 in 2015.

Despite winning the election it is a sad night for the Socialist Party, Ms Diaz said.

"The worst thing is that the extreme Right, a phenomenon that has appeared in the rest of Europe, has arrived here. Ms Diaz said she would call on other parties to build a firewall against the extreme Right in Spain.M alique Thompson-Dwyer knocked back a glass of champagne on being booted out of Im A Celebrity, telling fans he struggled with the lack of food.

The Hollyoaks actor, 20, received the fewest public votes up against fellow soap star Sair Khan.

Im just glad to be out because Im absolutely starving, he told Declan Donnelly and Holly Willoughby. I was struggling with the food situation. Half the time I was so hungry I couldnt talk. Ive lost so much weight.

He joked that he has learned to not be so lazy and promised to start cleaning around his own house.

Top trio: Malique Thompson-Dwyer, Fleur East and Harry Redknapp / ITV/Rex/Shutterstock

I am the youngest, he said. Everyone was calling me jungle baby. I find myself quite lazy. I feel around my own house Ill be doing cleaning.

The soap star said he got on well with Harry Redknapp, saying: Harry is a joker. I get along with the geezer. The stories that he tells I could listen to him all day.

Asked by Joe Swash on Extra Camp if his relationship with Fleur East was brother sister or lover lover he said: No, Fleur was definitely like my sister. Me and Fleur have talked about linking up in the studio.

Thompson-Dwyer said he was looking forward to chilling with my mum and Facetiming his daughter.

John Barrowman was excluded from tonight's public vote after spraining his ankle and being taken to hospital.

I'm a Celebrity .. Get Me Out of Here! 2018 - In pictures 1 /19 I'm a Celebrity .. Get Me Out of Here! 2018 - In pictures ITV/REX Harry Redknapp and wife Sandra ITV/REX Top trio: Malique Thompson-Dwyer, Fleur East and Harry Redknapp ITV/Rex/Shutterstock Emily Atack strips off to take her first jungle shower Rex Features John Barrowman celebrates getting 10 stars for camp with Harry Redknapp and John Barrowman Rex Features Anne Hegerty takes on Monstrous Monoliths - but only manages to secure two stars ITV/Rex Emily Atack provides comfort for Anne Hegerty on day one ITV/Rex/Shutterstock Emily Atack takes a dip in the jungle creek ITV/Rex John Barrowman takes on the Scary Rose ITV Anne Hegerty tells her campmates about her Monstrous Monoliths trial ITV/Rex Yellow team sank as they attempted to beat Red Team on the epic race to camp ITV/Rex/Shutterstock Emily Atack and Nick Knowles take on the Class of 2018 Dingo Dollar Challenge ITV Nick Knowles and Anne Hegerty wake up in the hut ITV Giggles: Holly Willoughby and Declan Donnelly were in hysterics as they watched Harry Redknapp ITV Rule enforcement: Nick Knowles and Noel Edmonds ITV/REX Harry Redknapp shares an awkward anecdote about an intimate moment with wife Sandra ITV/REX Fleur East takes part in a messy Bushtucker Trial ITV/REX The girls take turns popping each other's spots ITV/REX ITV/REXMalique Thompson-Dwyer and Nick Knowles carried him to a medic who took the decision to take him to hospital where he received an X-ray and a CT scan.

The Doctor Who star said he had enjoyed his short break from the jungle, joking he was sipping on champagne while surrounded by male strippers.

In a message to his camp mates he said: I am lying here sipping champagne in a hospital with six male strippers. Continue to live jungle life as normal. I want to be back in there with you all soon. But please get some rest this evening. Ps I want my f****** dinner when I get back!Review at a glance









W hile I admire her ability to produce a perfect iced bun under pressure, I cant get excited about Great British Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain.

Dont get me wrong, Im pleased for her - she has battled racism, Islamophobia and her own chronic anxiety to become a national treasure, with bestselling cookbooks and homeware lines.

Shes just a bit too earnest and sensible - lacking that maverick edge that marks the most successful TV chefs, such as Keith Floyd or Gordon Ramsay.

Nevertheless, her latest show (BBC One, 9pm) about discovering her roots appealed, not least because it offered the chance to escape to warm Cambodia for an hour at the start of a wet week.

Pictured: Nadiya Hussain in Chanthaburi market, Thailand / BBC/Wall to Wall/Rob Allison-Brown

Previously, Hussain has been on a British food adventure, finding out about what she feeds her family at home in Milton Keynes. Now she is discovering where she is from on a sort of gap- year trip (she even wears the harem pants uniform of the traveller).

Hussain recently did a DNA test and discovered that although her family is from Bangladesh, she has Thai, Nepalese and Cambodian ancestry. She wants to know more about her roots. Travelling alone (albeit with a film crew) is a brave step for Hussain, who never usually goes abroad without her husband and three children.

The younger Hussains are the stars of the show - we meet them at the start, bundled up in coats in the back seat of the car.

Her son has a dramatic turn of phrase, saying he is mainly sad, tearful, upset and just more words that mean sad about his mother leaving. Still, he brings her sweets for her trip and giggles at the thought of people from Thailand and Cambodia getting together and having children.

Packing comfortable shoes and hijabs that match her outfits, Hussain sets off. Her focus is on people like her, who are interested in food.

She goes to some interesting places - theres a cookery school for women near Angkor Wat where women are taught how to make patisserie, giving them a way out of poverty. Its run by a French woman called Charlotte who says French patisserie is the best in the world.

Hussain cant resist getting involved and teaches the students her twist on Paris Brest - will Charlotte be a tougher judge than the Bake Off team? Its pretty tense.

Hussain also cooks in a floating kitchen in Thailand and we meet a few engaging figures - from a man who climbs 30 trees a day to collect palm sugar, to an insect-smoothie maker who calls himself Doomsday Mike.

Nadiya Hussain shares her experience with panic disorder and anxiety

Hussain talks the viewer through her recipes, so if youre inspired you could make the dishes at home. Shes tireless in her pursuit of the perfect pad thai.

Shes moved by seeing how difficult her life could have been if her parents hadnt emigrated from Bangladesh. Yet the premise doesnt work - its too light on history and fact, and doesnt push the food angle hard enough either. Hussain is desperate to go off on a Who Do You Think You Are?-style voyage of discovery but there just isnt the material.

Instead, she has to justify the personal aspect of the show by finding parallels with the people she meets - theres a woman who wrinkles her eyes just like Nadiyas Bangladeshi grandmother, and they use the same fish paste in Thailand as her family. It all feels tenuous.G oogle is now into tablets. At this year's Made with Google event in New York, the tech giant revealed its new device to take on Apple's iPad range: the Google Pixel Slate.

Designed to complement last years Pixelbook laptop, the Slate marks the next step in Googles hardware expansion plans.

Can this device wipe out all the other tablet competition out there?

Google Pixel Slate: Design

Google has taken some of the elements that were starting to look outdated on the Pixelbook, like those thick bezels around the screen, and improved them for the Pixel Slate. It has a bright, dynamic 12.3-inch screen with a minimised border around the screen. The molecular display is crisp and clear, with 293 pixels per inch, to ensure a sharp and smooth picture.

The tablets Midnight Blue colour hides some of the dirty marks the silver Pixelbook picks up, and the aluminium back looks smart too.

Weight is important for any tablet, and as this one is 7mm thin and weighs in 0.7kg, you can carry it around all day and not feel like it is weighing you down.

The detachable keyboard case has undergone some design revamps with circular keys that apparently improve typing efficiency; a nice touch which also fits in with the rest of the hardware range.

The Pixel Slate has a bright, dynamic screen / Google

Google Pixel Slate: Software

The Google Pixel Slate is fitted with Googles Chrome OS software, specially designed to work on touchscreen devices, with a focus on speed, simplicity and security.

And it shows. Its very responsive and easy to use, with virtually no lag between actions - important when youre working away all day, and its easy to switch between typing on the keyboard and touching the screen, or you can rely on the trackpad.

The tablet comes loaded with barely any apps, choosing to rely on Googles cloud apps such as Google Drive, Docs and Sheets. This makes it easier to log in and start using the device, as you can access everything from the browser. The split-screen feature allows two programmes open side by side achieved with a simple gesture; necessary for productivity.

There is a dedicated Google Assistant button on the keyboard, and whilst Googles AI is one of the better ones out there, day-to-day I didnt get much use of it aside from accidentally pressing the button.

For security, theres a fingerprint scanner at the top so you can unlock your device securely, an important feature if youre carrying around work documents. The software also auto-updates every six weeks to incorporate new features and security patches so the tablet is proactive in staying secure. And thanks to the cloud nature of ChromeOS, if you lose the device you can wipe it securely, so no one gets access to your documents.

The new Pixel Slate comes in Midnight Blue / Google

Google Pixel Slate: Accessories

In terms of accessories, theres the Folio keyboard and cover which attaches easily to the tablet and has an adjustable back so you can prop the device up. However, after only two weeks of using the case, the fabric around the edges has already started to come away meaning this cover is definitely not as sturdy as it should be to protect the tablet.

The case is expensive too - priced at an additional 199, which is a shame as its pretty much necessary if you want this device to replace a laptop.

Google has also updated its Pixelbook pen in Midnight Blue to match the Pixel Slate. Handwriting recognition has been improved for the pen so you can handwrite notes and turn them into text. A button on the pen automatically brings up the Google Assistant too for more AI help.

The circular key design on the Slate keyboard improves typing efficiency / Google

How easy is it to use?

Its sufficiently easy to get set up and go on the Google Pixel Slate, as long as youre fully bought into the Google cloud-scape with Gmail.

There were a few issues I ran into again and again: such as opening documents. If youre using an app like Outlook, documents will attempt to open up in Infinite Painter, so you need to go through Chrome to open them up in Docs. This isnt a problem with the Pixelbook so Im not sure whats happening here.

As well, that flexible keyboard doesnt have the sturdiness of a laptop, meaning you need a solid surface to type - not so useful during presentations. Though I like the design of the keyboard, typing on a such a flat surface can strain your wrists after a while. However, I did notice I was making fewer mistakes when typing thanks to those circular keys.

Where the Google Pixel Slate does excel is battery life. Its supposed to last for around 10 hours usage and over casual usage of three days in the office, taking it between meetings, and transcribing, it certainly lasted well between charges.

The Pixel Slate is designed to complement Google's expanding hardware range / Google

Extra features you need to know

The camera comes with Googles signature Portrait mode in case you want to take pictures with it but it also provides a crisp view when using the device for Google Duo, its version of FaceTime, or Skype.

Those front-firing speakers are notably good too - when using the device to watch Netflix or Amazon Prime, there's no need need to connect a Bluetooth speaker because they work well by themselves.

Google Pixel Slate: Price

Overall, Im a big fan of the Google Pixel Slate. It looks good, functions well as a tablet and that keyboard means its a stylish way to replace a laptop, though it does have its downsides.Many young people think heavy winter clothes compromise their style and refuse to bundle up no matter the weather, but a Chinese study shows how you dress can be a matter of life or death.

The study shows the best temperature -- the temperature with lowest death rate -- might be 22.8 degrees Celsius. Warmer and cooler temperatures are associated with an increased risk of death and disease. But the effects of lower temperatures last longer and are more serious than those of higher temperatures.

The study by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention and Shanghai-based Fudan University looked at 1,826,186 non-accidental deaths in 272 Chinese cities in five climate zones from 2013 to 2015.

The causes of death included cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, respiratory disease, strokes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Researchers graded temperatures into four categories: extreme cold (-6.4 to 1.4 degrees centigrade), moderate cold (-1.4 to 22.8 degrees), extreme heat (29 to 31.6 degrees), and moderate heat (22.8 to 29 degrees).

They found that 14.33 percent of deaths were attributed to high or low temperatures. Of these, moderate cold and moderate heat were associated with the highest risks, which were 10.49 percent and 2.08 percent, respectively.

When temperatures rose, the risk of death dropped quickly at first, and began rebounding slowly after hitting 22.8 degrees Celsius. The risks from extreme cold lasted for more than 14 days, while the risks from extreme heat appeared immediately and lasted only for two to three days.

The study also found that the effect of low temperature on cardiovascular disease was greater than that on respiratory disease. Temperature-related cardiovascular mortality was 17.48 percent, while respiratory mortality was 10.57 percent.

Lead researcher Kan Haidong, said the effects of cold on the cardiovascular system are related to changes in the autonomic nervous system, blood pressure, and inflammatory response. The effects on the respiratory system might be due to increased respiratory infections on cold days.

Researchers also found temperature-related mortality rates were higher in elderly people (aged 75 years and over), children and women.

The mortality and disease risk were more prominent in the temperate monsoon and subtropical monsoon climate zones, and in cities with a high urbanization rate and a short duration of central heating.

The findings could help improve clinical and public health practices to reduce the health risks associated with current and future abnormal weather caused by climate change, according to the study published in the latest British Medical Journal.

Kan suggested people take rapid and short-term measures to cool down in hot weather, and be sure to dress warmly on cold days.Nordic Valley, Snowbasin, Powder Mountain prep for ski season

With Turkey Day typically comes skiing, or at least the looming possibility of Weber County's three ski resorts opening up for the year. Skiers this season, though, will have to be patient. Nordic Valley officials have announced plans to open on Dec. 3 for the 2021-2022 season, weather permitting. Snowbasin and Powder Mountain reps are holding off on setting opening days. The Dec. 3 date is "tentative, but we're shooting hard," said Brandon Fessler, Nordic Valley's general manager. The resort's snow machines have made "an OK amount, but nothing near what we need yet." Snowbasin had ...On Nov. 29, students of the Love and Light School in Beijing were attending classes, when a delegation comprised of Yu Xiuying, of the Beijing Vehicle Rental Association, and staff from the Denghuo Charity Foundation arrived. Yu, on behalf of the association, donated a folded bookshelf and books worth 11,800 yuan (US$1,696).

"After reading the reports about Shi Qinghua [the school's headmaster] many years ago, I couldn't help but admire the man for his whole-hearted dedication to the children in this school," she said. "Once at retirement age, I hope I too can embark on such charitable activities."

Sitting in the heart of Beijing's suburban Shunyi District, the Love and Light School was established more than a decade ago to accommodate underprivileged children and provide them with a decent education, accommodation and psychological support. So far, the school has homed 1,756 young beneficiaries. Among their most successful alumni are Deng Dandan who was admitted to the University of Massachusetts and Shen Xiaodong, who is now an undergraduate of Tsinghua University. Shen plans to teach at Shi's other philanthropic school in the Dabie Mountains, Anhui Province. The headmaster recalls how Shen told him that, "he hopes disadvantaged kids like him can change their trajectories in life through the help of education."

Almost two decades ago, an explosion caused by Shi's neighbor disfigured his wife and son. To get an adequate treatment, Shi brought them to Beijing where he spent all his savings. Consequentially, the family became homeless and relied on several street children who spoke with them and shared food. When his story went viral, he received immense social help. As a result of this he decided to devote his life to accommodating the street children who had helped him.

Gradually, the number of children he homed grew fast, so he established the school.

"It was extremely difficult at the beginning, when we had nothing but Chinese cabbages to feed them. Several months later, the children started to call me Cabbage Dad," the headmaster recalled.

But now, from classrooms to dormitories, the school is able to thrive due to donations from many strangers. At the same time, many of the students receive subsidies from their elder successful brothers or sisters who used to study in the school.

"I stayed in the school 11 years ago and it was there I felt so happy," said Yong Shanghui, who is now a teacher at the school.

"Unlike other children, the students here are special and require more patience and time to communicate with," Yong said.

In Shi's school, the children have had to acquire independence at a young age, and can be trusted with a range of responsibilities: laying their beds, washing their food boxes, cleaning their clothes and more. Their wardrobes are tidy with neatly folded piles of donated clothes.

"As many of them are living with no families, they learn to do things themselves," Shi said. "We encourage them to help each other, especially asking the elder ones to take care of the younger. Many of our graduates stay here to help the younger students."

The School of Love and Light is continuing to make a difference to many children's lives.Countries & Areas

Search for country or area A Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan B Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burma Burundi C Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Costa Rica Cote dIvoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czechia D Democratic Republic of the Congo Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic E Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia F Fiji Finland France G Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana H Haiti Holy See Honduras Hungary I Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy J Jamaica Japan Jordan K Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan L Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg M Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique N Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria North Korea North Macedonia Norway O Oman P Pakistan Palau Palestinian Territories Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Q Qatar R Republic of the Congo Romania Russia Rwanda S Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Sweden Switzerland Syria T Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu U Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom Uruguay Uzbekistan V Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Y Yemen Z Zambia ZimbabweAttorney General Augustin Lazar said on Monday that he had appealed against a decision by the plenum of the Supreme Council of Magistrates (CSM) that he had violated the Code of Ethics of Judges and Prosecutors when he spoke about "high-ranking convicts," and the court is expected to rule on it.

"I challenged the decision by the plenum of the Supreme Council of Magistrates of December 3, 2018, by which, at the limit of the majority, the decision of the Prosecution Section no 376 of June 26, 2018, which established that there are no indications regarding violation of the provisions of Article 17 of the Code of Ethics of Judges and Prosecutors, was repealed. I consider the plenary solution of the Supreme Council of Magistrates to be unlawful, and so the relevant court, notified within the legal term, may rule on the objection I raised," reads a message posted by Lazar on the Facebook page of the Public Prosecution Service.

Lazar told AGERPRES on Monday that the CSM plenary decision is unlawful and he will challenge it in court.

The CSM plenum ruled on Monday that there is evidence of the violation by Attorney General Augustin Lazar of the Code of Ethics when he spoke about "high-ranking convicts" when referencing members of the special parliamentary committees.

Last year, Lazar made a statement in which he spoke about high-ranking convicts, referring to some members of the special parliamentary committees.

The Judicial Inspection proposed penalising Lazar, arguing that Lazar had violated the Code of Ethics when he claimed that "high-ranking convicts" are harassing prosecutors in special parliamentary committees.

On June 26, the CSM Prosecutor's Section rejected the application for reprimand, but the Judicial Inspection challenged the decision with the CSM plenum.

On Monday, the CSM plenum sustained by a majority vote, the Judicial Inspection's appeal.

AGERPRES .European Commissioner for Regional Policies Corina Cretu has invited Prime Minister Viorica Dancila to officially say in Brussels if all the attacks in the last period against the European Commission represent the official position of the Romanian state.

On a visit to Bihor county, Corina Cretu was asked about how she comments on a series of accusations made against her on Sunday evening by Darius Valcov, advisor to the prime minister, and she indicated that it is not the first time when representatives of the ruling party, including from the Government, attack the Executive in Brussels.

"Not only I noticed this last night, but also the President of the European Commission, Mr. Jean Claude Junker. You also know that Mr. First Vice-President Timmermans has been attacked and offended for weeks by members of the ruling party in Romania. (...) The Government of Romania will be in Brussels on Wednesday and will present within the College of Commissioners the programme of Romania's Presidency of the Council of the European Union and I would invite madam prime minister to provide details - if all these attacks on the EC represent the Romanian's state official position," the European commissioner declared.

According to the commissioner, the public-private partnership is encouraged in all European Commission regulations and she specified that her statements related to this way of carrying out projects only referred to the fact that Romania has a historic chance of having non-reimbursable funds from the EU.

Corina Cretu urged Darius Valcov to read all the recommendations in the reports of the European Court of Accounts regarding countries that have no experience in public-private partnerships but also about the way Romania needs to carefully tackle these matters so as not to have penalties or expensive negotiations for the population later on.

"It is not my problem, it is the Romanian state's decision, but I have not received any notification from the European Commission that a public-private partnership is in the works. I have found out from the media about the Targu Mures - Iasi - Ungheni Motorway, about which our specialists are saying that we have money for feasibility studies to carry it out in this programming period and to commence construction as of 2021. In any case, as an average, it is said very clearly in these reports of the European Court of Accounts that a public-private partnership lasts between 20 and 30 years and that is why the EC recommends to consult with international financial institutions, such as the European Investment Bank or the World Bank. So, this politicizing is detrimental to the citizens," the European commissioner said.

Commissioner Corina Cretu "lies by omission" regarding the public-private partnership, state advisor Darius Valcov stated on Sunday evening, for a television station.Romania's Foreign Affairs Minister Teodor Melescanu welcomed China's Deputy Foreign Minister Wang Chao on Monday to discuss ways in which Romania can contribute to the advancement of the comprehensive EU-China strategic partnership, amidst Romania assuming the six-month rotating Presidency of the EU Council, on January 1, 2019.

The Chinese dignitary paid a visit to Bucharest for a new round of political and diplomatic consultations between the foreign affairs ministries of the two countries.

"The talks between the two dignitaries highlighted the prospect for a balanced growth of the Romanian-Chinese trade, the state and concerns with co-operation in sectors of common interest (energy, transport, tourism, interpersonal relations, etc.) and co-operation opportunities in the 16+1/Central and Eastern Europe - Chinese PR under projects undertaken by Romania in areas such as energy, smart cities, women's entrepreneurship and education. The meeting provided an opportunity for an exchange of views on ways in which Romania can contribute to the advancement of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the EU and China for the time Romania holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, from January 1 to June 30, 2019," reads a press statement released by the Romanian Foreign Ministry (MAE).

At the same time, aspects of the Romanian-Chinese co-operation in the field of multilateral organisations were discussed, with emphasis on the United Nations.

According to MAE, the visit of the Chinese deputy foreign minister to Bucharest is part of the intensification of the political and diplomatic dialogue between Romania and China. In 2019, the two countries will mark 70 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, and 15 years of a comprehensive Friendship and Cooperation Partnership between Romania and the People's Republic of China.

AGERPRES .The Romanian Presidency of the Council of the EU could be an opportunity to organise a summit in Iasi, where to invite the countries part of the Eastern Partnership, alongside the EU and EC leaders, Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration of the Republic of Moldova Iurie Leanca stated on Monday in Cluj.

While attending a conference on Monday organised by the "Babes-Bolyai" University (UBB) in Cluj-Napoca, Iurie Leanca voiced confidence that Romania will maintain on the European agenda everything that is related to the Republic of Moldova.

"The Romanian Presidency of the Council of the EU represents an opportunity. Our big problem is that in the first two-three months we will be in electoral campaign, so that Romania won't be able to do so much in the immediate run, from an operational point of view. But what I am sure, and the discussions that I had in Bucharest with many dignitaries, starting with the President of the country, the Foreign Affairs Minister, the Prime Minister, make me confident that the Republic of Moldova issue, and the East in general, will be maintained on the agenda by Romania. (...) I have discussed the idea of a summit, before the one in Sibiu, for instance in Iasi or in any other city in Eastern Romania, where to invite the countries of the Eastern Partnership, or at least the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine and Georgia, alongside the EU and EC leaders," said Leanca.

He believes that the idea of organising a summit like this can take the model of Bulgaria, which, one day before the summit in Sofia, invited to talks the leaders of the Western Balkans.

Iurie Leanca believes that the EU's, Germany's and France's policy with respect to the Republic of Moldova depends on the manner in which Romania will understand to approach in Brussels the Moldovan topic.

Deputy PM for European Integration of the Republic of Moldova Iurie Leanca participated on Monday in the conference "the Republic of Moldova - Romania relations in European context," alongside Vasile Puscas, the former chief-negotiator of Romania with the EU. The conference took place at the Faculty of Economic Studies of the UBB. AGERPRES .Prime Minister Viorica Dancila had a meeting on Monday in Zagreb with Speaker of the Croatian Parliament Gordan Jandrokovic, occasion on which the Romanian PM underscored that the parliamentary diplomacy plays an important role in identifying new opportunities of bilateral cooperation, a release of the Government informs.

"On this occasion, the Romanian Prime Minister hailed the positive dynamics of the bilateral political dialogue, both at Government and Parliament level. The relations between the two states are very good and based on similar standpoints over some aspects of the sphere of regional, European and international issues, the Romanian high official said. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila said that, taking into account the extended cooperation framework between Romania and the Republic of Croatia, parliamentary diplomacy plays an important role in identifying new cooperation opportunities needed to further strengthen economic and sectoral relations," the quoted source mentions.

PM Viorica Dancila stated that Romania endorses the EU's objectives in relation with the Western Balkans.

"Moreover, the Executive head mentioned that Romania, as a consistent supporter of the enlargement policy and an EU member state, in the direct vicinity of the region with specific stability and security interests for the region, endorses the EU's objectives regarding the Western Balkans, a region that has an important place among the objectives of the Romanian Presidency of the Council of the European Union," the source mentions.

Romania's PM and Speaker of the Croatian Parliament also talked about the similar stances that the two states have in a series of European files: the future of Europe, the cohesion policy, the relations between the states of the Euro area and non-Euro, the Schengen Area and management of external borders of the EU, the Eastern Neighborhood.

AGERPRES .In Zagreb on Monday, Romania's Prime Minister Viorica Dancila met Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, occasion on which the PM said that Romania will count on all the EU member states, such as Croatia, for support when holding the EU Council Presidency to advance the European agenda.

According to a press statement released by the Romanian government, the European agenda was an important topic at the meeting, which took place in the form of a working lunch.

"The Romanian Prime Minister and the Croatian President discussed the coordination within the trio of the rotating presidencies of the EU Council, which the two countries are part of, alongside Finland. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila welcomed the excellent co-operation in this field, announcing that the joint schedule of the trio is already completed thanks to the shared effort of coordination among the three countries. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila said that Romania, as the future holder of the Presidency of the EU Council counts on all member states, such as Croatia, for support so that Romania's tenure will bring concrete results to the advancement of the European agenda."

Dancila reiterated that the enlargement of the EU to include the Western Balkan states is a priority of Romania's Presidency of the EU Council. She added that Romania remains committed to political support and technical assistance in advancing reforms in the states of the region in the process of getting closer to Euro-Atlantic bodies.

She also congratulated Croatia on its successful chairmanship-in-office of the Central European Initiative this year and welcomed the emphasis on key themes such as energy efficiency, European integration and competitiveness.

Agerpres .Prime Minister Viorica Dancila will participate in Zagreb, on Monday, in the opening of the Summit of the heads of government of the Central European Initiative (CEI) member states, a Government press release informs.

On the sidelines of this meeting, Prime Minister Viorica Dancila will have bilateral meetings with Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, and Croatian Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandrokovic.

"The Central European Initiative Summit in Zagreb will occasion the continuation of the debates on regional cooperation, with a focus on promoting democratic values and practices, good neighborly relations and ensuring regional stability. At the same time, the economic energy and transport interconnection projects will be approached, in order to bring this area closer to European standards and to support the European path of the aspiring states. The meeting will occasion the presentation of the objectives of the forthcoming Romanian Presidency of the Council of the European Union (first half of 2019), with an impact on regional cooperation," the Government informed.

The consultations with the senior Croatian officials will provide an opportunity to assess the state of the bilateral relationship and the regional situation, the coordination with regard to the exercising of the mandate of the EU Council by the two states, as part of the Trio of presidencies Romania-Finland-Croatia, with an emphasis on sustaining the European path of the Western Balkans.Romania can ensure a reasonable presidency of the Council of the European Union, despite difficult internal circumstances, Romanian President Klaus Iohannis told an interview with the Austrian publication Kurier on Saturday.

Asked how how the disputes with the ruling party can be avoided on the rule of law and the fight against corruption during the presidency of the EU Council, Iohannis said he opposes anyone who puts at risk the fight against corruption and the rule of law in Romania, whether he/she is or not a member of the government, and that he uses all the powers the constitution grants him to prevent the adoption of laws that weaken the judiciary.

Even in these difficult domestic circumstances, Romania can ensure a reasonable presidency of the EU Council, Iohannis said, expressing hope that, despite the controversies and diametrically opposed ideas between himself and the government on justice and the rule of law, the disputes will not have a negative impact on the presidency of the EU Council.

In relation to the priorities of this presidency, which Romania will exercise in the first half of 2019, the Romanian president considers that a common vision and the preservation of the European values must be a priority for all member countries. This common vision means that the preoccupation for unity of the Union, cohesion and solidarity among the member states must be at the forefront, the Romanian president stated.

He brought to mind the main files to be handled during the Romanian Presidency of the Council of the European Union: the exit of the United Kingdom from the Union, the multi-annual financial framework, migration, the debate on the future of the EU.

A key project of the presidency to be held by Romania will be the Informal European Council to be held in Sibiu on 9 May 2019 and will be dedicated to the debate on the future of the EU. Iohannis expressed the hope that the meeting will provide a clear and positive outlook for the Union and raise awareness among European citizens.

In his opinion, people expect clear answers to their issues, and Romania wants to get concrete results for citizens.

In the Kurier interview, the head of the Romanian state voiced his support for the EU enlargement policy as a tool of stability and security on the European continent, and with regard to migration, he proposed as a solution a multi-level approach, expressing his confidence that during the presidency exercised by Romania a rapprochement of the very different stances on this issue will be managed.

Asked whether the European Parliament Elections in 2019 will strengthen populist and national right-wing parties, Iohannis said that the way the challenges of Brexit, the crisis of migration and the future EU budget will be politically handled will determine the future of the Union after 2019. In his opinion, providing good solutions to these issues could counter the emerging populist tendencies that are a reality.President Klaus Iohannis on Monday sent a message occasioned by the reopening of the Great Synagogue of Iasi and the lighting of the second candle on Hanukkah.

"On the reopening of the Great Synagogue of Iasi, I want to send my warm greetings and congratulate you on the Synagogue becoming again, through the city officials' and believers' efforts, a living sanctuary of worship, a landmark of the spiritual and cultural life of the city. The reopening is symbolically carried out at the start of Hanukkah, called the feast of ?inauguration' and ?light' in the Jewish tradition. May the celebration dedicated to the Great Synagogue and the Jewish community of Iasi strengthen you in faith and carry on the light of hope in a better future, under the sign of peace and solidarity," President Iohannis said in a message delivered by presidential adviser Sergiu Nistor.

Iohannis underscored in his message that the Great Synagogue has a history that intermingle with that of Iasi and the Jewish community, which was "a sacred temple and refuge in difficult times."

"The reopening of the oldest Judaic worship centre in Romania represents, in the year when we celebrate together the Greater Union Centennial, a gesture of respect for the memory of those who sacrificed for faith and freedom. It is also a tribute to the Jewish figures who supported the Union of 1918 at international level, thus, contributing substantially to the modernisation and progress of Romania, proving their loyalty to the country and their belief in its historic destiny, " Iohannis said.

He added that he is pleased that the Federation of Romania's Jewish Communities constantly supports the restoration of and capitalisation on the synagogues of Romania.

"They give a beautiful expression to the values that I also support and defend, together with you: knowledge, dialogue and tolerance. 'Hag Hanukkah Sameah!".

AGERPRES .The simple motion against Minister of Tourism Bogdan Trif called "Tourism in Romania: An incompetent minister and a country without a brand" got rejected on Monday by the plenary sitting of the Senate.

As many as 40 Senators vote "in favor" of the motion and 76 "against. The vote was secret and cast electronically.

The 35 Senators from the PNL and the Save Romania Union (USR), who signed the motion criticised Trif's activity, arguing that he "lacks transparency" and the budgetary execution of the Ministry of Tourism stops in August 2017.

According to the initiators, "Romania is among the last positions in the European Union in all tourism indicators," with our country being "the only one in Central and Eastern Europe with a deficit in the balance of payments in the tourism sector."

The signatories of the motion demanded the resignation of Minister Trif.

AGERPRES . Flash

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump held a "highly successful meeting" in Buenos Aires on Saturday, reaching important consensus and agreeing not to impose new additional tariffs.





The two heads of state had an in-depth exchange of views on China-U.S. relations and international issues of common concern in a friendly and candid atmosphere at a working dinner after the conclusion of the 13th summit of the Group of 20 in Argentina.





Sound China-U.S. relations, Xi said, are in line with the fundamental interests of the two peoples and the broad-based expectations of the international community.





He called on both China and the United States to handle the development of bilateral relations from an overall perspective and push for long-term, healthy and stable development of bilateral ties.





Trump said that he agrees with Xi on his evaluation of U.S.-China relations.





U.S.-China relations are very special and important, Trump said, adding that it is in the interest of the two countries as well as the world that the United States and China, both countries of significant influence, maintain a good cooperative relationship.





The U.S. side, he added, is ready to increase cooperation with China through consultations and actively seek mutually beneficial solutions to their problems.





The two leaders agreed to expand cooperation based on reciprocity and mutual benefit and manage differences based on mutual respect, so as to jointly advance China-U.S. relations with coordination, cooperation and stability as the defining features.





They also agreed to maintain close exchanges in various forms to jointly chart the course for the development of China-U.S. relations, and pledged to hold further exchanges of visits at an appropriate time.





It was the first meeting between Xi and Trump since the U.S. president paid a state visit to China in November last year. The world, Xi said, has witnessed a lot of changes since then.





As two major countries with great influence, China and the United States shoulder important responsibilities in promoting world peace and prosperity, Xi told Trump.





Cooperation is the best choice for China and the United States, he said.





On economic and trade issues, Xi said that it is very normal that the two countries have some disagreements in the fields of economy and trade, adding that the key is to manage their differences properly and work out a solution acceptable to both sides in the spirit of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit.





They agreed not to impose new additional tariffs, and instructed the economic teams of both sides to step up negotiations toward the removal of all additional tariffs and reach a concrete deal that is mutually beneficial and win-win.





Xi also reiterated China's stance on the Taiwan issue and the U.S. side pledged to continue to adhere to the one-China policy.





The two leaders also exchanged views on the Korean Peninsula situation and other major international and regional issues.





The meeting lasted for two and a half hours, much longer than planned, said Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi at a briefing on the closely-watched Xi-Trump meeting.





"The meeting was very successful and produced important consensus. It provides direction for China-U.S. relations in the time to come," Wang said.





In a White House press release, Trump was quoted as saying that this was an amazing and productive meeting with unlimited possibilities for both the United States and China.





"It is my great honor to be working with President Xi," Trump said.





Experts said that the important meeting sends a positive signal in the development of China-U.S. relations, one of the most important bilateral ties in the world.





It suggests that cooperation is the key to the solution of problems, said Zhu Feng, a professor with the School of International Studies at Peking University, adding that given the differences between China and the United States in institutions, industrial policies and markets, Xi and Trump have demonstrated strategic courage and resolution at the dinner table.





Berthold Kuhn, a China expert with the Free University of Berlin, noted that the meeting was "a first step" toward the settlement of China-U.S. trade disputes and more time is still needed for negotiation.





"I am ... slightly optimistic," he said.There is much on the Internet these days about documents allegedly hacked by Anonymous; these documents belong to the "Integrity Initiative" and describe a multi-country effort, funded by London and Washington, to counter "Russian propaganda" and "fake news". Since the initial story broke, a good deal of confusion has been laid down: Wikileaks is doubtful, and Anonymous itself is being evasive. On the other hand, Integrity Initiative doesn't entirely deny.

But even if entirely false, they would be in that curious category of "fake but true": Integrity Initiative does actually exist and here is its website. It is certainly engaged in anti-Russia propaganda. It publishes articles locking the barn door after the horses have escaped: yes, "Novichok" is terribly deadly but that doesn't mean it will kill you. But, if it isn't strong enough to kill you today, it may be strong enough to kill someone four months later. Its most memorable statement is surely this:

The Kremlin has invested more operational thought, intent and resource in disinformation, in Europe and elsewhere in the democratic world, than any other single player.

A statement that would stun anyone who's ever been in a hotel and gone channel cruising: RT's in there somewhere along with CNN, MSNBC, Fox, BBC, DW, France Televisions, Rai and so on. A tiny voice in a bellowing crowd. But, after all, these are the people who tell us that Russia affected the US election with one FB message per 400 million others.

The Integrity Initiative is one of many. We had, and still have, the Legatum Institute which worried about "Russian disinformation" back in 2013, a pair of British thinktankers two years later also worried about "Russia's information warfare in the UK". Then it was time for "hybrid war", a supposed Russian invention. The so-called intelligence assessment (of "all 17 agencies", but actually a hand-picked group from only three, one of which only had "moderate confidence") on Russian hacking devoted nearly half its space to a four-year old rant about RT!

Such an obsession with RT and Sputnik! How many eyeballs do they reach? Not that many by all evidence. We're talking small  not 1/413,000,000th small  but small. A good deal less than the BBC alone. Amazing! But the West bravely marshals its feeble power against the colossus of RT and creates the British Army's "77th Brigade" of Twitter commandos, the US has its soldiers at Fort Bragg trolling away, NATO's Centre of Excellence in Tallinn pumps it out and now the Integrity Initiative extrudes copy. Even little Canada has got into the act. Then we have the so-called independent think tanks busy creating "objective" "impartial" "scholarly" expliques of the Russian threat. Some of these are nothing but beards for the arms industry. An example is CEPA ("a tax-exempt, non-profit, non-partisan, public policy research institute") supported by, inter alia, the US Mission to NATO, NATO Public Diplomacy Division, US Naval Postgraduate School, US Department of Defense, US Department of State, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Raytheon Company, European Defense Agency, Chevron Corporation, Bell Helicopter, Textron Systems and BAE Systems. Its "non-partisan" reports tell us Russia is sowing chaos, that we must defend the "Sulwaki Corridor", Nord Stream is a bad idea and so on. You may not have noticed Moscow's hand in Catalonian separatism, but they have. All very predictable and just the sort of thing a company making big weapons wants out there to buttress its sales pitch. Bearded guys in turbans and sandals with IEDs are not big business; Russians in tanks are. A rather curious idea of "non-partisan".

But, despite this, we're supposed to believe that RT and Sputnik have awesome powers and that one little tweet from a Russian bot has an overwhelming effect against which these "non-partisan" outfits have a tough struggle. An intelligent child can see the nonsense.

But enough sarcasm, this isn't funny: it's actually very serious. Apart from the dangers of building up war fever against a power that could obliterate the West, it's a telling indication of the decline of the West. And so triumphant and so confident only two decades ago!

In the Cold War Moscow's sin was that it was actively trying to overthrow us and send those of us it didn't shoot to the GuLag. Today its crime is contumacy: it persistently refuses to accept the blame that the West puts on it.

But neither do many of us. So, if you, as I do, think that the Western version of the MH17 story is a bit fishy, doubt that Assad is dumb enough to do the one thing that would invite Western missiles, regard Whitehall's Skripal story as laughably incoherent, doubt that Litvinenko could write a perfect English sentence, find it absurd to assume that Putin kills people by such easily noticed means, know that there were Russian troops in Crimea all along, notice that the White Helmets have received millions yet can only afford dust masks and flip flops, had heard of the Crimean Tatars before, notice that NATO has expanded up to Russia's borders and not the other way around, know something about Ossetian-Georgian relations, know what the Ukrainian Constitution says about getting rid of presidents, remember Nuland's telephone call, can remember all the people falsely demonised by the Western propaganda machine If you dare to think those thoughts, these people will call you a victim of (or accomplice in) Russian disinformation and say you need re-education. Certainly they don't want you to be heard.

Of course no one is calling for the end of freedom of speech, just a shutting down of "fake news". Social media is doing its best to do so, advised by such "impartial" organisations, in the case of Facebook, as the Atlantic Council. Which is funded by, well, many of the same organisations as CEPA, but with more foreign governments and oil companies. Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Northrup Grumman, United Technologies, Boeing: they're not interested in funding a venue for people who question the Russian threat meme, are they?

Once upon a time truth was considered to be the best defence. In the Cold War there was little effort to silence Soviet propaganda. Anybody could listen to Radio Moscow, read Soviet newspapers or anything else. Most countries had a legal communist party working, under Moscow's strict control, for a communist takeover and pumping out propaganda as hard as it could. Innumerable front groups pushed communist and Soviet policy under a variety of covers. We didn't worry too much: truth was the best defence. But the USSR did worry and it spent enormous efforts jamming Western broadcasts. A child could figure it out: the side that's blocking the other side is afraid of the truth, it's afraid of dissent, it's afraid of freedom.

Twenty years ago most Russians would have agreed that Pravda & Co were lying both about the USSR and about the West. But not any more: read what Margarita Simonyan, the head of the dreaded RT, says: "           ,    " ("For fifty years, secretly and openly, we wanted to live like you, but not any longer"). Reflect on what produced this contemporary Russian bittersweet joke: "Pravda lied to us about the USSR, but it told the truth about the West".

So, in the end, Russians didn't "drink the Kool-aid". Willing once to believe, they believe no more. And that is Russia's sin. It's not bolsheviks lusting for blood, with nooses in their hands, charging down Park Lane and Wall Street these days, it's Russians stubbornly being Russian. And that is unforgivable to a West that has lost the confidence that its positions stand strong and unaided.

Which it has. Why else these attempts to manipulate public opinion and block disagreement? It is, in a word, Soviet behaviour. The side that's mostly telling the truth isn't afraid of the other side's lies. Again, a child could figure it out.

What they are telling us (forget all that Magna Carta, freedom of speech and thought, European Values stuff they were boasting about a few years ago) is this:

We don't trust you to make up your mind, so we'll do it for you.

Accept, Believe, Repeat. It's a big slip down the slope.

Remember the notion, popular at one time, that the Soviets and the West would converge? Well, maybe they did and just kept moving past each other. Soon we'll be fully Soviet in our response to Big Brother: believe the opposite, read between the lines, notice what you're not being told.

But the "Russia information war" pays good money for people who can say with a straight face: "Novichok is deadly except when it isn't" or "Our intelligence agencies rely on Bellingcat to tell them what's going on" or "Assad gasses civilians when he's winning because he likes being bombed" or "Putin kills all his enemies except the ones who are telling you he does" or "the Panama Papers prove Putin's corruption even though his name isn't mentioned" or, indeed, "Russia swung the US election with a trivial number of social media posts". Oh, and RT is rotting our minds. Even if no one you know has ever watched it.

They are paid to believe what they believe to be paid.China has come to dominate the market for commercial UAVs and quadcopters and is on its way to dominating the military UAV market as well. A recent example of this was s Chinese firm introducing what it described as an armed helicopter UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle); the Blowfish A2. This is the smallest helicopter UAV that can carry weapons (a machine-gun). It can also carry cargo, up to 7 kg (15.4 pounds) for 20 kilometers. Carrying only a vidcam the Blowfish can stay airborne for 60 minutes. Heavier loads reduce this endurance. Cruising speed is 90 kilometers an hour, with max speed 145 kilometers an hour. Max altitude is 5,100 meters (16,000 feet). The Blowfish is a conventional helicopter design with a rotor diameter of 2160mm (6.9 feet). Height is 620mm (24.4 inches) and battery powered.

The primary market for Blowfish is commercial, but it obviously has military uses as well. Smaller Chinese quadcopters dominate the commercial market and are widely used by military and police, as well as Islamic terrorists (and outlaws in general). Max takeoff weight of Blowfish is 35 kg (77 pounds). It can be programmed to fly a fixed search pattern as well as remaining under operator control.

Blowfish is the latest of many larger helicopter based UAVs that are popular with military organizations. An example of that appeared in 2017 with the arrival of the AV500W. This one weighs 450 kg (990 pounds) and has a payload of 120 kg (264 pounds). Max speed is 170 kilometers an hour and max ceiling is 4,000 meters (12,500 feet). Endurance is four hours (loaded for combat) and eight hours (with just vidcams). The AV500W can carry four laser-guided missiles and uses an onboard vidcam and laser designator to find and hit targets up to 8,000 meters distant.

The AV500W appears very similar to the earlier (2011) V750 helicopter UAV. This one weighs 757 kg (1,665 pounds) and has a payload of 80 kg (176 pounds). Max speed is 161 kilometers an hour and endurance is four hours. The V750 can fly a pre-programmed route or be controlled by a ground operator (up to 150 kilometers away). The manufacturer offered the V750 (and AV500W) for civilian (scientific survey, search and rescue, police surveillance) as well as military uses.

There are over a dozen other Chinese helicopter UAVs on the market, many of them very similar in appearance and performance to foreign designs. Same pattern with missiles for these UAVs. Since 2011 China has developed lightweight UAV missiles similar to the American 50 kg Hellfire and 14 kg APKWS. The Chinese lightweight laser-guided missile weighs eight kg (18 pounds) and has a range of 5,000 meters. But this one was not offered for export and may never be. As is often the case several Chinese manufacturers will develop similar weapons hoping to get major sales to the Chinese military or at least some export business. One of the other lightweight missiles under development appears to be a Chinese clone of the APKWS, which is basically a World War II era unguided aerial rocket with a laser guidance and control system attached.

For a long time China discouraged its defense firms from publicizing vaporware (products that were in development but never worked well enough to put on sale) but that seems to be changing. Meanwhile, Chinese manufacturers continue to produce weapons and UAVs remarkably similar to existing Western models. That is another issue that is more of concern to foreign firms than to their Chinese competitors.

China has been known to buy and copy Western UAV designs, including helicopter UAVs meant for use at sea. For example in 2012 a Japanese warship passed by a Chinese frigate that appeared to be flying a helicopter UAV off its helicopter pad. The Japanese took photos and passed them around. At first, it was noted that the helicopter looked like the Schiebel S-100 Camcopter. Schiebel is an Austrian firm which markets the S-100 in many countries via the U.S. firm Boeing Aircraft. But Schiebel continues to sell the S-100 itself, and a little digging revealed that the Chinese had bought 18 S-100s in 2010. While the three S-100s seen on the aft deck of the Chinese frigate do look like the S-100, there also appear to be some differences. It appears that a Chinese firm copied the design of S-100 and created a workable S-100 clone. Nothing new or novel there. China takes it as normal, many other nations do not.

European nations are not supposed to sell China weapons (because of an arms embargo), but the S-100s were apparently sold to Chinese police organizations (which is legal and the S-100 does have civilian users). One Chinese firm has since offered a helicopter UAV similar to the S-100. China has become more blatant in copying foreign designs and then selling them to foreign customers and competing with the original. Suing the Chinese usually does not work, as Chinese courts favor the Chinese copycats, not the original creator of the technology.

The S-100 weighs 200 kg (440 pounds), can stay aloft six hours per sortie, and operates at a max altitude of 5,500 meters (18,000 feet). Max speed is 220 kilometers an hour. So far, some 200 S-100s have been sold to military and civilian customers. Before the S-100 clone came along Chinese firms had already developed several helicopter UAV designs like the V750.

Meanwhile, the U.S. has taken the lead in this area, with several models developed in the last decade. The one most similar to the V750 is the MQ-8B Fire Scout, which has operated in Afghanistan and aboard warships. The U.S. Navy developed, and put into use, the MQ-8B. A similar model, the RQ-8B, died because the U.S. Army already had plenty of UAVs that got the job done. The navy kept Fire Scout because helicopters are more practical on most ships (for landings and takeoffs). Navy Fire Scouts have been successfully used on frigates (in both the Atlantic and Pacific). There is a huge demand for UAVs in Afghanistan, so the navy sent some there.

The 1.5 ton Fire Scout is based upon the Schweitzer 333 unmanned helicopter, which in turn is derived from the Schweitzer 330 commercial lightweight manned helicopter. Fire Scout has a payload of 272 kg (600 pounds), a cruising speed of 200 kilometers an hour, max altitude of 6,100 meters (20,000 feet), and endurance of eight hours. The U.S. Navy plans to acquire over 160 Fire Scouts.

Several other navies have been testing helicopter UAVs on their warships, and this type of UAV seems destined to replace a lot of manned helicopters on warships and enable smaller warships (that cannot handle the larger manned helicopters) to operate unmanned helicopters. American helicopter manufacturers have found that it is fairly easy to create unmanned versions of their existing helicopters and have done just that to gain experience with that sort of thing.Japan launched a twenty-seven-thousand ton destroyer (the Izumo, DDH 183) on August 6th that looks exactly like an aircraft carrier. Actually it looks like an LPH (Landing Platform Helicopter) an amphibious ship type that first appeared in the 1950s. LPHs had no (or relatively few) landing craft but did carry a thousand or more troops who were moved ashore using the dozen or more helicopters carried. The first American LPH (the USS Iwo Jima) was an eighteen-thousand-four-hundred ton ship that entered service in 1961, and carried two-thousand troops and twenty-five helicopters. Until Izumo showed up, several nations operated LPHs, and Britain and South Korea still do. The U.S. retired its last LPHs in the 1990s, but still have a dozen similar ships that include landing craft (and a well deck in the rear to float them out of) as well as helicopters. A few other nations have small carriers that mostly operate helicopters but carry few, if any troops.

Izumo is the largest LPH ever to enter service. It differs from previous LPHs in not having accommodations for lots of troops and having more powerful engines (capable of destroyer-like speeds of over fifty-four kilometers an hour). Izumo does have considerable cargo capacity, which is intended for moving disaster relief supplies quickly to where they are needed. Apparently some of these cargo spaces can be converted to berthing spaces for troops, disaster relief personnel, or people rescued from disasters. There are also more medical facilities than one would expect for a ship of this size. More worrisome (to the Chinese) is the fact that the Izumo could carry and operate the vertical take-off F-35B stealth fighter, although Japan has made no mention of buying that aircraft. The Chinese are also upset with the name of this new destroyer. Izumo was the name of a Japanese cruiser that was a third the size of the new destroyer and led the naval portion of a 1937 operation against Shanghai that left over two-hundred-thousand Chinese dead. The Chinese remember all this, especially the war with Japan that began unofficially in 1931 and officially in 1937.

The Izumo is part of a trend. In 2009, Japan launched its second LPH (the Ise). Earlier in 2009, it commissioned the first of these ships, the "helicopter-carrying destroyer" Hyuga. This was the first Japanese aircraft to enter service since 1945. The Hyuga class are 197 meter (610 foot) long, eighteen-thousand ton warships that operates up to eleven (mostly SH-60) helicopters from a full length flight deck. Although called a destroyer, it very much looks like an aircraft carrier. While its primary function is anti-submarine warfare, the Hyuga will also give Japan its first real power projection capability since 1945. The Hyuga is also the largest warship built in Japan since World War II. The Japanese post World War II constitution forbids it from having aircraft carriers, which is the main reason it is called a destroyer. That, and the desire to not make the neighbors anxious. East Asian nations still have bad memories about the last time Japan had lots of aircraft carriers. Meanwhile, more Japanese are calling for the constitution to be changed, not just so these odd looking destroyers can be more accurately named but because it would then be easier to develop nuclear weapons if China became more threatening. A constitutional change would also help the economy by making it possible to export weapons.

The Hyuga, and apparently the Izumo, have major weapons on board. The Hyugas have sixteen Mk41 VLS (Vertical Launch System) cells for anti-aircraft and anti-ship missiles. There are also two 20mm Phalanx anti-missile cannon and launcher with sixteen ESSM missiles for anti-missile defense. There are also two triple 324mm (12.75 inch) torpedo mounts for anti-submarine work. There is a crew of three hundred and seventy and a top speed of about sixty kilometers an hour. Vertical takeoff jets like the Harrier and F-35B could also operate from the Hyuga. A third Hyuga class ship was planned but this was cancelled when it was decided to proceed with the larger Izumo class DDHs. The Izumo class is believed to have similar (but slightly larger) crew size and armament as the Hyugas. The Izumo is known to have an elevator (to the hanger deck under the flight deck) powerful enough to carry an F-35B fighter or MV-22 tilt-wing transport.

The last Japanese warship to be called the Hyuga was a World War II battleship that entered service in 1918, and was converted to a hybrid battleship/aircraft carrier in 1943. The new Hyuga was intended for peacekeeping missions as well, and for that role its many helicopters will be most useful. During World War II there was also a Japanese battleships named Ise, which was the lead ship of a class of ships that also contained the Hyuga. Both were 35,000 ton warships, and both were sunk, in the same week, in late July 1945. The Ise had been rebuilt during the war as an aircraft carrier (actually a hybrid battleship/aircraft carrier).

The Japanese are apparently quite pleased with their new Hyuga class carriers and much relieved that there was not a worldwide uproar over how they circumvented their own constitution. The Japanese Navy was apparently back in the carrier business, 64 years after the last of their World War II carriers went to the bottom.The campaign phase of Congos presidential election race has begun. The election is scheduled to occur on December 23. Unfortunately, the opposition is in disarray. Current president Joseph Kabila and his operatives are responsible for that. Kabila and his lackeys prevented the two most powerful opposition candidates from running, Moise Katumbi and Jean-Pierre Bemba. Katumbi has been in exile. Kabila falsely accused him of treason but succeeded in getting a compliant court to press the charges. Kabila succeeded in disqualifying Bemba on shady legal grounds, even after he was acquitted of war crimes charges in the International Criminal Court (ICC).

With Katumbi and Bemba sidelined, on November 12 several opposition parties tried to back a single (unified) candidate, anti-Kabila activist Martin Fayulu. However, that agreement quickly fell apart. Felix Tshisekedi, leader of Congos largest opposition party, the Union for Democracy and Social Progress, announced he would run. Many of Tshisekedis supporters rejected Fayulu as a candidate. However, Tshisekedis belated campaign is poorly organized. In July polls indicated 70 percent of the electorate favored an opposition leader over anyone from Kabilas organization. But the legal shenanigans and Kabilas cash advantages have taken a toll.

Observers concede Kabilas hand-picked successor, Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary (Peoples Party for Reconstruction and Democracy), is now favored to win. Thats bad news. Shadary owes everything to Kabila. The opposition contends Shadary is little more than a political mask for Kabila. Because of that the Kabila family and key supporters will continue to wield real power in Congo. Will Shadarys election spur violent street protests and the formation of anti-Kabila militias? No one knows, but note Novembers student demonstrations in Kinshasa against Kabilas police, demonstrations spurred by the slaying of two student protestors. Even members of Kabilas party are condemning those killings.

Kabila was supposed to leave office in December 2016. His decision to delay the 2016 national elections and in remain office violated fundamental constitutional law (constitution of the Third Republic, 2006). A puppet successor wont satisfy Congolese angry at Kabilas corruption, violence and disdain for the law. The stage is set for another civil war. If another civil war erupts, what will the 17,000 UN peacekeepers do? Again, no one knows. (Austin Bay)

December 1, 2018: In eastern Congo (North Kivu and Ituri provinces), the Ebola virus epidemic continues but so far has remained in Congo despite the fact that the infected areas border Rwanda, Uganda and South Sudan. So far the two Congolese provinces have had from nearly 500 Ebola cases. Approximately 250 people have died (though some sources contend the figure is higher). In mid-November, over 160 patients in eastern Congo were treated with experimental drugs that had promising results in initial testing. The medical jargon is a bit foreboding: investigational therapeutics under a protocol called Monitored Emergency Use of Unregistered and Investigational Interventions. Using drugs that have not received full approval is risky. However, the epidemic is risky. Since June 2018 doctors have been allowed to treat high-risk Ebola patients in Congo with experimental therapies. A Congolese medical ethics committee approved the drugs for compassionate use (a last resort for patients at high risk of dying or patients definitely exposed to the virus). An experimental vaccine has also been tested. In May 2018 a vaccine test was conducted in the Congolese town of Mbandaka (northwest Equateur province). The vaccine had previously been tested in Guinea. Health officials believe the vaccine may have curbed an explosive increase in cases in Congo. In early November 2018, Uganda began vaccinating health workers in case cross-border transmission of the virus occurred. Stay tuned. (Austin Bay)

November 27, 2018: In Congo, the U.S. announced the terrorist threat to its embassy in the capital (Kinshasa) has not diminished and U.S. facilities in Kinshasa will remain closed. On November 24 the U.S. State Department began issuing terror alerts to Americans in Congo. The embassy was closed on November 26.

November 26, 2018: In western Congo (Kinshasa), student demonstrations continue at the University of Kinshasa. The demonstrations began November 12 when students demanded that classes re-open. Classes ceased in October when teachers went on strike for better pay. On November 12 police killed a student demonstrator; another was slain November 16. Now student demonstrators are demanding an end to police violence.

In southwest Uganda (Rukungiri), police clashed with opposition protesters. The police dispersed the demonstrators with tear gas. Protestor accused the police of also firing live ammunition. Fifteen members of the opposition FDC party were arrested. The FDC is the largest opposition party in Uganda and Rukungiri is the hometown of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye.

November 24, 2018: In western Congo (Kinshasa), American embassy officials reported that they had "credible and specific" information of terrorist threats against U.S. facilities in Congos capital including the embassy.

November 22, 2018: In eastern Congo (North Kivu province), Ugandan ADF Islamic terrorist rebels fired on a UN helicopter. The helicopter was hit but there were no casualties.

November 21, 2018: In Congo, opposition parties report that so far this month the government has arrested at least 44 pro-democracy activists. Several were beaten while in detention. Some remain in jail. Opposition parties estimate that since 2015 the government has arrested at least 2,000 opposition party leaders and supporters and pro-democracy activists.

In the Central African Republic (CAR), UN and foreign aid workers agree that the situation is definitely deteriorating and unless the security situation improves famine is a likely result. Famine is a very dire warning. The UN usually speaks of various levels of food insecurity (threats to food resources, food storage, food access or food distribution). In a famine, 30 percent or more of the population suffers from severe malnutrition. Another quantitative factor that defines a famine in humanitarian aid organizations: two people (or more) out of every 10,000 people in an area die each day due to malnutrition. The UN warning statement included a report of farm families abandoning their farms in areas throughout the CAR. The famine warning follows a report in early November that the CAR faced its worst food insecurity situation since 2014. (Austin Bay)

November 19, 2018: A Congolese citizen arrested for being involved in the murders of two UN sanctions monitors have denied the accusations in court. The citizen has been identified as an informant for the ANR, Congos intelligence agency. In March 2017 the two UN monitors, Michael Sharp (U.S. citizen) and Zaida Catalan (Swedish citizen) were slain in Congos Kasai region. They were investigating war crimes allegations in the Kasai region. According to international media, the ANR informant helped Sharp and Catalan plan their route on the day they were murdered. Congos government blames the Kamuina Nsapu militia for the murders. According to investigators, there is substantial evidence the Congolese Army was involved.

November 18, 2018: In western Uganda (Lake Albert), police claim that Congolese gunmen belonging to a Congo-based militia shot and killed seven Ugandan fishermen and wounded one other. The 160 kilometer long Lake Albert serves as part of the border between Congo and Uganda. The lake is 30 kilometers wide and fishing is a major industry on both shores of the border.

In southern CAR (Ouaka province), two army engineering units engaged in a firefight in the provincial capital (Bambari). Three soldiers died in the battle and three were wounded. The day before a peacekeeper was killed in Bambari when unidentified gunmen attacked a peacekeeper camp in the town.

In CAR, more peacekeepers are being sent to the south (Basse-Kotto province) to deal with the continued fighting in the town of Alindao. This is in response to a recent attack by Islamic terrorists that left over 60 dead and a Catholic cathedral burned.

November 17, 2018: Attacks by the rebel ADF terrorist militia have forced Congolese health officials in Beni (North Kivu province) to suspend Ebola virus epidemic operations. WHO medical personnel reported a militia attack stopped just short of an emergency clinic. At least one shell struck a clinic building. WHO has now evacuated personnel from Beni.

November 16, 2018: In southwest CAR, a peacekeeper was killed in the village of Gbambia.

November 15, 2018: In eastern Congo (North Kivu province), eight peacekeepers and at least twelve soldiers died during a joint military operation against ADF rebels. The area is the center of the Ebola virus epidemic. The joint operation targeted an ADF camp in Kididiwe (about 20 kilometers from Beni city).

In southern CAR (Basse-Kotto province), rebels attacked Alindao and burned a Catholic cathedral. Alindao is northeast of the capital, Bangui. At least 60 were killed during this violence including two priests. The government is blaming UPC, a Muslim militia that was once part of the old Seleka rebel movement. UPC supporters claim the attack on Alindao is a reprisal for attacks on Muslims by Christian anti-balaka militias.

November 14, 2018: In eastern Congo (North Kivu province), ten peacekeepers were injured during an operation against the ADF. The peacekeepers deployed attack helicopters in that operation in the Mayangose area (northeast of Beni city).

November 13, 2018: The Congolese opposition parties unified presidential candidate deal has collapsed. Felix Tshisekedi will run as the main opposition candidate. Apparently, a substantial majority of Tshisekedis supporters refused to accept the deal.

November 12, 2018: Congolese opposition parties announced they would support a unified presidential candidate: Martin Fayulu, a member of parliament and a long-time anti-Kabila activist. Fayulu won the unified nomination over Felix Tshisekedi, who announced that he had the support of Jean-Pierre Bemba, a formidable candidate that President Kabila succeeded in eliminating from the December election.

November 11, 2018: In CAR Russia is becoming increasingly active Allegedly Russia has from 170 to 200 uniformed military personnel in the country. The biggest contingent is Russian mercenaries. There are around 1,500 Russian mercenaries in the CAR. They are called employees of private military companies (PMC).

November 5, 2018. In eastern Congo (North Kivu province), rebels launched two attacks near the town of Beni. The rebels killed eight civilians and kidnapped another 15. Flash

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with his Argentine counterpart Mauricio Macri in Buenos Aires on Sunday, and the two leaders agreed to jointly open up a new era of the comprehensive strategic partnership between their countries.





Xi arrived in Buenos Aires on Thursday to attend the 13th Group of 20 (G20) summit and pay a state visit to the South American country.





Xi said that he and Macri, meeting five times in less than three years, created a record in the history of bilateral ties, and that China-Argentina relations are witnessing unprecedented breadth and depth.





Under the current complicated and rapidly-changing international circumstances, the two countries should chart the course of their relations with a broader vision, and work together to open up a new era of their comprehensive strategic partnership and make new contributions to peace, stability and prosperity in both countries and the world at large, he added.





The two sides should support each other on issues concerning their core interests and on their independent choices of development paths, said Xi.





China has taken concrete actions this year to support Argentina maintaining financial stability and has faith in Argentina's growth prospects, he added.





He suggested that the two sides strengthen communication and cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and synergize their development plans.





The two sides should also strengthen cooperation in such areas as infrastructure, agriculture, energy and finance and enhance people-to-people exchanges, Xi said.





Both China and Argentina are major developing countries and emerging-market economies, and they should work jointly to support multilateralism and an open, inclusive global economy, he added.





China, he said, is ready to work with Argentina to strengthen coordination within multilateral frameworks, deepen South-South cooperation, enable more developing countries to enjoy the benefits of economic globalization, and build a community with a shared future for mankind.





Despite the current challenges facing Latin America, China is full of confidence in the growth prospects of the region and will work with partners in the region, including Argentina, to foster a China-Latin America relationship for the new era featuring equality, mutual benefit, innovation, openness and tangible benefits for the people, said Xi.





Xi also congratulated Macri on the successful G20 summit, saying that the event was of great significance as it sent a strong signal on upholding multilateralism.





The consensus reached at the convention is conducive to efforts in safeguarding the multilateral trading system and building an open global economy, and also helps inject confidence and vitality into the global market, said Xi.





Macri warmly welcomed Xi for his visit to Argentina and thanked China for its long-term assistance and support to his country.





He congratulated China, upon the 40th anniversary of its reform and opening-up, on its enormous achievements in social and economic development, poverty alleviation and other fields.





Calling China a major engine driving the world economy, Macri said China's development and the realization of the Chinese Dream bear major significance to the development of Argentina and Latin America, and carry profound meaning to world peace, stability and prosperity.





Argentina is firmly committed to deepening its comprehensive strategic partnership with China and strengthening cooperation within the Belt and Road framework, Macri said.





In recent years, Argentina and China have enhanced mutual trust, with frequent exchanges in various fields, Macri said, stressing that bilateral cooperation has entered a new stage of mutual benefits and win-win results.





Recalling Argentina's successful participation in the first China International Import Expo in Shanghai, the president said his country looks forward to further exploring the Chinese market.





Argentina, he said, hopes to take the signing of a joint action plan for the next five years as an opportunity to expand cooperation in such fields as agriculture, finance, aviation and infrastructure construction, and promote exchanges in cultural and people-to-people fields such as tourism and sports.





Argentina also welcomes Chinese companies to expand investment in the country, he added.





Macri said he appreciates Xi's support for the just concluded G20 summit, adding that it is critical to the success of the summit.





Argentina is willing to carry out closer coordination and cooperation with China on multilateral affairs, he said.





The two leaders witnessed the signing of a joint action plan as well as multiple bilateral cooperation documents.





The two sides also issued a joint declaration, in which they reviewed the development of bilateral relations and set out priorities for future cooperation.To the horror of southern deep fried racist states, in 1954 the Supreme Court via Brown v Board of Education banned segregation in public schools. The Catholic schools by and large went along with thisnot so much the root of what will later become the epidemic of American fake Christianitythe southern protestants. Religious segregation academies were cooked up to subvert racial desegregation. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, was sent to one such oven of high Fahrenheit resistance to the encroaching evil of civil rightsthe Lawrence County Academy, its nickname, the Rebels, its mascot, the Confederate flag carrying Colonel Reb. This recipe of support for a civil war that was overwhelmingly about the right to have slaves and the wrongs of granting such slaves any rightshow could racist views not get baked into anyone not possessing the extraordinary moral fortitude required to rise to the challenge of being a better person?

How can a state that has a black population of 37 percent (the highest percentage of any state) elect a Senator widely reviled as racist, a very untalented racist at that? Even Alabama, with a mere 26.5 percent Black population managed to get rid of its own rotten egg problem hatched in the name of Judge Roy Moore. We rejoiced when Alabama rejected Roy Moore as Senator. But should we have? Consider that 70 percent of whites in Alabama voted for this teen child molester. 70 percent of whites in Alabama voting for Roy Moore for the Senate just reminds me that there is a thin veneer between civilization and barbarism. It is so easy for humans to walk over to the dark side.

A brief reminder: Moore has been suspended from the Alabama Supreme Court twice, once for refusing to remove a Ten Commandments statue from state grounds (read the U.S. Constitution, buddy) and later for refusing to follow the federal Supreme Courts landmark ruling legalizing same sex marriage. A judge who puts himself above the law is perhaps one of the scariest phenomena in any society. Moore actually believes the only law is Gods law (whatever that means, or whatever he wants it to mean).

Judge Roy Moore coauthored the following study course (you can check it out on Amazon). It instructs students that women should not be permitted to run for elected office. If women do run, the course argues, people have a moral obligation not to vote for them. Moore the pedophile has such contempt for the rule of law that he was almost certainly aware of James OKeefes attempt to subvert justice by trying to trap the Washington Post into printing a story invented by his Project Veritas. Moore has argued that Americas shift toward secularism is responsible for many of its darkest moments, including the 9/11 terrorist attacks and recent shootings and killings. A devoted creationist, he would ban evolution from the school curriculum; he rails against same-sex marriage but is apparently fine with being a sexual predator to underage girls, not generally dating teenagers when in his thirtiesand according to Moore always asking the mothers permission first if he did so. He believes God put Trump in the White House (I guess his white-supremacist God was working on the Greek debt problem when Obama snuck in), was a birther (a level of proactive ignorance that can only be held by a racist), thinks that sharia law has been adopted in parts of the U.S. (it has not), had no idea what a dreamer is (an important American issue surrounding children brought here by undocumented immigrants), and finally and off course, no Muslim should be allowed to serve in Congress.

While Cindy Hyde-White is probably not as repulsive as Judge Moore, she is clearly totally oblivious to the needs and perspectives of 37 percent of her constituents.

She would be on the front row if a constituent asked her to go to a public hanging, Lynching used to be legal, mainly impacted blacks or whites who tried to block lynchings

She posed wearing a Confederate hat while holding an old Confederate gun

She pushed a resolution praising a Confederate soldiers effort to defend his homeland

Re voter suppression: Maybe we just want to make it a little more difficult.

Sends daughter to similarly racially motivated schoolwith 386 white kids and 1 black kid.

You would surely prefer that decent white people would want to try and move forward rather than trying to roll back the laws of physics to recreate the prevailing attitudes of 1860. But at the time of writing, I estimate that 80 percent of whites said noIm with apartheid Cindy, Im ok with snatching my seat at the front of the bus and waving, reliving the old glories of racism. I mean it is not like these loser attitudes have achieved anything for Mississippithe state with the 5th highest rural population in the nation. But that it about that only statistic that Mississippi can enjoy without a red white and black kiss my ass flag being raised. 19th century ideals can only rain misery down on inhabitants whose dreams equate to creating nightmares for anyone in a different tribeso I guess the rest is poetic justice

Most Racist: Mississippi Rank #49 Just below its twin:

Life Expectancy : Mississippi Rank #50

Poverty : Mississippi Rank #50

Most Porn Mississippi Rank #50

Religion (Fake Christianity if you support a bigot) Mississippi Rank #50

Education Mississippi Rank #49

Least Physical Exercise : Mississippi Rank #50

Most Mooching: Mississippi Rank #49

Women Equal pay Mississippi Rank #47

Here we can see a typical example of the collateral damage the red states do to the United States in general -where their Stupidity often threatens to turn the US into a third world country.

So it looks like we have a very clear pattern. But to summarize, plus adding more factors, twenty different metrics in all let us look at the ultimate chart.

*Red Font Numbers are guesstimates. I chose 30 for Kansas because they seem to have a pattern of coming in around 30. The interesting point about Kansas is to consider not where they have been, but where they are going. On the racism question  which can be hard to get data on  I was probably overly cautious (harsh) in giving Vermont 30  but I did this because they have had some recent bad press in regards to some police actions against minorities and likewise I was probably being kind to Kansasbut since I could find no data I gave them a 15.

But I am not quite done. Just in case the pattern is still difficult to see, lets add them all up and then compare these three Stupidparty States with two of the smarter blue states. I guess in the eyes of a Stupidparty disciple, this would be like comparing freedom-loving American patriots with European-loving socialistswho should just leave the country.

But if the blue state socialists did leave the country  then who would be picking up the tab: the deadly costs of Stupidity.

So now you have all the data your hearts could desire  please feel free to go ahead and vote for your choice  who do you believe is the most Stupidparty state of all? Flash

Israel's political arena was in uproar on Sunday after the police recommended indicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara in corruption charges.

The announcement prompted the opposition to urge the prime minister, who has been entangled in a series of corruption investigations over the past years, to hand his resignation immediately.

The calls came after the police and the Israel Securities Authority announced that there was sufficient evidence to indict the Netanyahus for accepting bribes, fraud, and breach of trust in a case involving Israel's largest telecom company, Bezeq.

Opposition leader and Israel's former Foreign Minister, Tzipi Livni, called on Netanyahu to resign. "Netanyahu must go home before he destroys the law enforcement in order to save his own skin," Livni wrote on Twitter, referring to Netanyahu's repeated suggestions that the criminal investigations in which he is involved are part of a "witch hunt" against him.

"The people of Israel deserve a clean leadership. Elections now," she wrote.

Heads of other opposition parties echoed Livni's call, saying Netanyahu must step down.

Yair Lapid, leader of the center party of Yesh Atid and a former finance minister in Netanyahu's previous government, called for the Likud, Netanyahu's party, to remove the prime minister from his post and select another member of Knesset (parliament) to replace him until new elections.

"This is a sad day for all Israeli citizens," Lapid said in a statement. "The State of Israel deserves better."

Head of the Labor Party Avi Gabbay referred to the police conclusion, according to which Netanyahu gave Bezeq financial and regulatory benefits in return of favorable coverage in the Walla, a news site and a subsidiary of Bezeq. "A man driven by a sick obsession of what will be said about him in the media can't lead the State of Israel," Gabbay wrote on his Twitter account.

"Every additional day at his post means damage to the citizens of Israel," he warned. "A prime minister with so many corruption cases around him cannot continue at his job and must resign."

Lawmakers from the Likud played down the significance of the announcement and lashed out at the police.

Likud lawmaker Miki Zohar denounced the police, saying they "continue to cross all lines." Miri Regev, a lawmaker with the Likud and Israel's culture minister, and coalition head David Amsalem also criticized the police, suggesting that the police were quick to accuse Netanyahu ahead of the expected departure of Police Commissioner Roni Alsheikh on Monday.

The increasing calls for Netanyahu's resignation cast doubts on his ability to end his current term, which is supposed to end in November 2019.

Last month, Netanyahu was left with a narrow coalition after former Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman resigned over Israel's cease-fire with Gaza Strip's Hamas group.

After Lieberman's far-right party left, the coalition remained with 61 members in the 120-member parliament, making it even more susceptible to collapse.

Earlier on Sunday, in a joint statement concluding the nine-month-long investigation, dubbed by the police as "Case 4000," the police and Israel Securities Authority recommended indicting the prime minister and his wife for accepting bribes, fraud, and breach of trust.

According to the statement, Netanyahu promoted regulations favoring the telecom giant, the Bezeq Group, in return for favorable coverage in Walla. Both Bezeq and Walla were controlled by Shaul Elovitch, a businessman and Netanyahu's long-time friend.

The police also recommended indicting Elovitch and his wife Iris.

The investigation showed that between 2014 and 2017, when the prime minister also acted as Israel's communication minister, he allegedly awarded Bezeq with regulatory and financial benefits worth hundreds of millions of U.S. dollars.

Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing.

Shortly after the police recommendations were publicly announced, the prime minister released a statement dismissing the allegations.

"I am sure that also in this case the relevant authorities, after examining the matter, will reach the same conclusion that there was nothing because there is nothing," he said in the statement.

In February, the police recommended to indict Netanyahu for a series of corruption charges including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust in two other cases, "Case 1000" and "Case 2000."

In "Case 1000," Netanyahu and his family allegedly received expensive cigars, champagne, and jewelry worth about 1 million new shekels (268,200 dollars) from the Israeli businessman and Hollywood tycoon, Arnon Milchan, and Australian businessman, James Packer, between 2007 and 2016.

In "Case 2000," Netanyahu allegedly received bribes from Arnon Mozes, the publisher of Yedioth Ahronoth, one of Israel's largest newspapers.

According to the police, Netanyahu and Mozes held talks over an "exchange deal," in which Netanyahu would receive favorable coverage in Yedioth Ahronoth in return for promoting a law and other measures that would limit the distribution of Israel Hayom, Yedioth's main rival.Bay of Plenty

We are on the hunt for drivers with either Class 2, 4, or 5 licenses. We are working with a variety of clients with different...



View or Apply on GoodWork.co.nzUS Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa Scott Brown paid a visit to Tauranga Intermediate School earlier this morning.

The students put on performances including performances from the Kapa Haka group, Hip Hop group, and school rock band.

Scott has been in New Zealand for 17 months, and hopes to stay longer should President of the United States Donald Trump get re-elected.

Scott says he didnt know much about New Zealand before coming here, but he says it was a good thing so he could learn more about our culture and customs.

I wanted to come here not knowing much about New Zealand, so I could come with an opened mind and eyes.

I wanted it to be an opportunity to learn and grow, so before I arrived I basically knew nothing apart from the Lord of the Rings, the Hobbit and the All Blacks.

When it was Scotts turn to speak and address the school, he introduced himself in te reo Maori, earning himself around of applause from students and staff.

He spoke to the students about his life growing up and how one bad decision could have changed his life path.

Dont judge a book by its cover, says Scott.

Make your family proud. Make your teachers proud. Live every single day as if its your last, says Scott.

Scott also took questions from the students and was asked a range of questions from thoughts on New Zealand to what the food is like in America.A month-long immersion in Japanese culture and heritage proved to be an eye-opening experience for Tauranga resident Eleanor Sturrock.

Eleanor, an archaeologist who works in the Heritage New Zealand Tauranga office, recently returned from a Group Training Course for Young Professionals on Cultural Heritage Protection in the Asia-Pacific Region.

The course involved heritage professionals from 16 different countries who took part in the programme which had the theme investigation, preservation and management of archaeological sites at its centre.

The Tauranga area is rich in archaeological features, as is the wider Bay of Plenty region, so the course was very relevant to the work that I do, she says.

One of the course objectives was to further develop our technical skill sets and knowledge to help achieve better protection and preservation of cultural heritage. I now have a better idea of how heritage is perceived on a global scale, and more aware of the challenges faced in other countries, as well as steps that are being taken to mitigate or overcome these.

Organised by the Agency for Cultural Affairs Japan, the Asia-Pacific Cultural Centre for UNESCO, the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property and the National Research Institution for Cultural Properties, the course included lectures from experts, tours of museums, field trips to archaeological excavations and visits to a number of World Heritage Sites.

The course organisers covered the cost of accommodation and a daily allowance, while Heritage New Zealand paid for Eleanors airfares.

Besides visiting places of cultural importance in Nara, Osaka and Kyoto, one of the highlights of the trip was spending time with young professionals from across the Asia-Pacific region, and learning about their countries and share experiences. This really made the course unique, she says.

I particularly enjoyed listening to the country report presentations by each participant, which highlighted some similarities in the issues we all face in our respective countries, and also the opportunity to understand cultural heritage in other settings. It was a great way to introduce ourselves  and our work  to the group.

It was also good to attend the lectures by experts in different fields, and further develop technical skills like drawing artefacts and photography.

Once Eleanor got used to the humidity of a late Japanese summer  as well as the bikes, cars, trains, subways and buses associated with a population of 127 million  she fully enjoyed the experience, which was her first overseas trip travelling by herself. Flash

French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday visited the Arc de Triomphe and Parisian streets to assess the damage after a group of protesters smashed and torched buildings and cars, plunging the city into civil unrest.

Immediately after returning from Argentina, Macron went to the emblematic monument of L'Arc de Triomphe where a statue of Marianne was smashed, the country's landmark monument was looted and tarnished.

Accompanied with Interior Minister Christophe Castaner, the president returned to the streets around the Arc de Triomphe that had been target of 3,000 troublemakers, among them far-right and hard-left supporters, according to the interior ministry.

Under the applause of supporters and heckling of some "Yellow Vest" protesters, Macron had took time to meet security forces and firefighters who had been mobilized on Saturday to secure the demonstration overshadowed by raging violence.

Videos showed the capital's vibrant avenues turned into battle field. Overturned vehicles were in flames around the Arc de Triomphe, shop-fronts including those of Channel and Dior were smashed and Christmas trees were torched, forcing the closure of dozens of metro stations.

In the French capital, 412 individuals were arrested in connection with the violent incidents. 378 remained under custody, Paris prefecture said.

It added 133 people were wounded, including 23 police officers.

Facing a fierce street challenge, Macron is holding an emergency meeting with Prime Minister Edouard Philippe and ministers of interior affairs and ecology to discuss the riots and how to handle the popular social movement of the "Yellow Vests."

"We have to think about the measures that can be taken so that these incidents don't happen again," government spokesperson Benjamin Griveaux told Europe 1 radio.

"It is out of the question that each weekend becomes a meeting or ritual for violence," he said when asked about imposing a state of emergency.Kenton Buckner has an emotional moment Monday as he gets sworn in as the new Syracuse chief of police.

SYRACUSE, N.Y. - After being sworn in as the new Syracuse police chief, an emotional Kenton Buckner - wearing an orange tie - stood in front of a standing-room only crowd and thanked the Lord.

"I prayed for this opportunity," Buckner said as he fought back tears this morning at the Public Safety Building in downtown Syracuse. "I'm very thankful."

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh introduced Buckner to the crowd, which included local and state officials.

Walsh said he was impressed by Buckner's confidence, his ability to be humble and his passion for the job.

"Most of all, I found with my experience with the chief very early on was that I trust him," Walsh said. "Trust is not something that comes easily for any of us, but after spending a little bit of time with him, I knew that I could trust him and that was most important...I know that you will all grow to trust him as well."

Walsh announced on Nov. 2 that he was naming Buckner the next police chief. Buckner, 49, was one of three finalists selected after an eight-month search process. The other candidates were Joseph Cecile, first deputy chief in Syracuse, and Kamran Afzal, chief of police in Durango, Colorado.

Former Chief Frank Fowler retired on Friday after nearly three decades on the job at the Syracuse Police Department. Fowler was chief for nine years.

Buckner previously served as the chief of the Little Rock Police Department in Arkansas.

Buckner told the audience this morning that he was ready to get to work in Syracuse.

"I've done a lot of talking to get to this point," he said. "Now I have to deliver on my promises."

Buckner said his top three priorities are reducing violent crime, strengthening the police department's relationship with the community and recruiting a police force that is reflective of the community.

"Over the next several weeks and months, I will be conducting an assessment of our community and police agency specifically looking at areas of weakness...and our strengths," he said.

Buckner said he also wants to issue a "simple request" to the public.

"When we're right, I ask you to support us," he said. "When we're wrong, I ask you to hold us accountable. I ask that you do both with the same amount of energy and I plan to do the same thing for our officers."

Buckner said he believes the community has to to be involved in public safety.

"We will not always agree, but I assure you that I will stay at the table," he said. "I will remain committed to improving our police department."

Buckner, who was living in Arkansas when he was hired, said he has moved to Syracuse alone.

As an out-of-state police officer, Buckner will need to receive additional training to become a certified officer in New York State.

Greg Loh, a city spokesman, said this is a common practice for out-of-state hires. Buckner is a sworn-in officer, which means he can carry a badge and gun, and fulfill police duties.

The state Division of Criminal Justice Service will assess Buckner's previous experience to determine what new training he'll need to complete in the next year, Loh said. That training will likely take place at the city's police academy program.

Buckner's base pay will be $115,000. With holiday and command pay, his salary will be $149,000 in his first year.

Buckner said he was emotional this morning when he saw the size of the crowd and he realized that he had made it to the position he so passionately wanted.

"To have the opportunity to serve as chief of police in this city is truly a blessing," he said.Symphoria's annual holiday spectacular will open with Sean O'Loughlin's festive setting of traditional carols, "A Season for Joy." Filling the Crouse-Hinds Theater stage for three performances, Symphoria will be joined by Syracuse Pops Chorus, Syracuse Children's Chorus, and dancers from The Ballet and Dance Center.

Home for the holidays to perform with Symphoria for the first time since he sang at the 2016 Fourth of July concert at the Lakeview Amphitheater, Nick Ziobro will reprise a favorite song, "God Bless Us Every One." He'll also sing some new-to-him favorites, including "O Holy Night" and "Do You Hear What I Hear?"

Ziobro, who inspired fans as the national winner of the 2012 Michael Feinstein Great American Songbook Vocal Competition, has earned wide-spread acclaim as a song stylist, performing jazz and popular music in concert halls across the country. A graduate of Fayetteville-Manlius High School, he holds a BFA in music from Rider University.

"The Syracuse community has been supportive of my career through the years, and I'm happy to come back home again to sing with Symphoria and Sean O'Loughlin," he says.

Coming home also means Ziobro can enjoy time-honored traditions with his family. "I think even when I'm 50, my mom will still be prepared to hand out special pajamas to me and my siblings on Christmas Eve," he says.

O'Loughlin, too, is a Syracuse native, having grown up in Lyncourt and graduated from Syracuse University before going on to study at the New England Conservatory of Music. From the Los Angeles home he shares with his family, he travels back to Syracuse regularly as Symphoria's principal pops conductor.

To tie in the "magic" that is in the show's title, O'Loughlin has programmed John Williams' score to "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban." It holds a personal connection for O'Loughlin because he was part of the team that prepared the orchestra parts for the original recording sessions.

New this year, Symphoria will be one of the first orchestras other than the originators to perform the Boston Pops' classic arrangement of "A Christmas Scherzo" by Don Sebesky. And, for real traditionalists, O'Loughlin says, "One of my all-time favorite Christmas TV specials comes to life in a Boston Pops arrangement of "Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer. There's always magic involved when reindeer fly!"

THE DETAILS

Who: Sean O'Loughlin conducts Symphoria

What: Holiday Pops Concert

Where: Crouse-Hinds Theater at John H. Mulroy Civic Center

When: Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 15 at 1:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $20 to $80; free to those 18 and under

Purchase: Call 315-299-5598 or online at experiencesymphoria.orgJulie Briggs Leone and her partner James Leone wanted the Listening Room at 443 to focus on live acoustic performances while also using the space for hosting events like comedy nights and book readings.

Julie Briggs Leone wanted to create a space where people can relax, listen to live music and spike their coffee if they feel the need to.

The Listening Room at 443 is that place.

The cafe and acoustic music lounge on Burnet Avenue is on track to open in January 2019.

Briggs Leone got the idea after attending a performance at Borodino Hall in Skaneateles.

"The room was so quiet, I could hear a pin drop," she said. "People were so focused on the artists and music and it felt so special, like that's the way it should happen."

Briggs Leone and her husband James Leone, who's also her partner, wanted the Listening Room to focus on live acoustic performances while also using the space for hosting events like comedy nights and book readings. The cozy lounge -- decorated like a fun, vintage living room -- will be a cafe during the day and a full bar in the evening. During the coffee house hours, the Listening Room will rotate local roasters from different parts of New York.

Our back bar is trimmed out and stained - all thats left is adding some lighting to the shelves. SO EXCITED to get this project wrapped up! Posted by The Listening Room at 443 Cafe & Lounge on Monday, November 26, 2018

Equipment, furniture, and the stage for performances are all in place. Briggs Leone is now waiting for the last few permits, and the waiting has been the hard part. During the last year and half of working on the lounge, the paperwork and applications felt never-ending. Briggs Leone also ran into issues regarding zoning laws, which were later straightened out with City Hall.

"Everyone has been helpful in terms of getting this up and running, but I think everyone is working within a system that is a little outdated," Briggs Leone said. "So many requirements, applications and paperwork are really repetitive so you have to be extremely patient."

Equipment, furniture, lighting and the stage for performances are all in place and the construction team is working on putting together the final pieces.

After months of scale drawing, taking photos and submitting surveys, the Listening Room is in its final stretch with construction projects coming to an end. A Facebook post on Sunday night set an opening date for Jan. 7, 2019.

"We just want to offer something unique for the community," Briggs Leone said. "It's a chance for people to put away distractions and be in the moment with live music. And the artists really love that too."SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The Syracuse diocese's list of abusive priests contains the names of "dozens" of people who can no longer be prosecuted for sex crimes against children, according to Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick.

Some of those priests are deceased, the diocese said in a statement Saturday. The list, which will be released Monday morning, includes allegations dating back to the 1950s. New York state's statute of limitations prevents Fitzpatrick from pursuing charges against the others.

"The list, if it had one name on it, would be distressing," Fitzpatrick said. "And the fact that it has dozens of names on it, I personally think, is a crisis that is affecting the Catholic Church greater than the Reformation. It is so distressing."

Fitzpatrick, who is Roman Catholic, was comparing the clergy sex abuse scandal that has continued to plague the church since it was first exposed in the early 2000s to a time in the 16th Century when Protestants broke from the Catholic Church.

While the sex abuse scandal has disrupted his own beliefs about the church as an institution, Fitzpatrick said, he is confident that Syracuse Bishop Robert Cunningham handled cases properly and transparently over the last few years.

The prosecutor said that his office initially reviewed the list of abusive priests around 2015 when the diocese signed a "memorandum of understanding" with local district attorneys. At the time, the diocese agreed to report all abuse claims to law enforcement.

Fitzpatrick said that the diocese has communicated with him since then to discuss cases and allegations, but that no new credible findings had been made, and no additional names had been added to the list.

Earlier this year, the diocese also agreed to turn over all information pertaining to allegations of clergy sex abuse to New York's attorney general.

"The list that will be disclosed tomorrow, which I've seen, is the same list provided to us years ago," Fitzpatrick said. "There's nothing new [the diocese] is disclosing to the attorney general that hasn't been disclosed to us."

Fitzpatrick said in each case involving a living priest in Onondaga County, his office has reviewed allegations.

The DA said apart from conducting an investigation and ensuring a priest does not pose a danger to children, the statute of limitation prevents him from pursuing the cases in a criminal court.

That's why Fitzpatrick supports changing criminal statutes, he said, to give him more time to prosecute older cases and people in positions of authority who mishandled the cases or failed to report them. Fitzpatrick supports the passage of the Child Victims Act and Victims Empowerment Act.

For now, his focus has been on where the priest is located now, if any children could be exposed to danger, what the nature and credibility of the allegations are, and how to best assist victims, Fitzpatrick said.

Fitzpatrick confirmed the diocese's statement that no priest with a credible allegation against him is active in the Syracuse diocese, which spans seven counties. Fitzpatrick said none of the living priests on the list works with or has access to children except in public settings, which law enforcement can do nothing to prevent.

The DA emphasized that the diocese has been transparent and appropriate in its handling of these cases in recent years, especially under Bishop Cunningham, but that wasn't always the case.

In some cases, he said, allegations were not disclosed immediately to law enforcement and some predator priests were left "in plain sight."

"I don't think there's any question that historically the Syracuse diocese, along with perhaps every other diocese in America and maybe the world, was derelict in eradicating this and nipping it in the bud."

Public Affairs Reporter Julie McMahon covers courts, government and other issues affecting taxpayers. She can be reached anytime: Email | Twitter | 315-412-1992SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Syracuse Bishop Robert Cunningham's choice to release a list of abusive priests is part of a "slow awakening" to the seriousness of child sex abuse, he said in an interview today.

The Catholic Diocese of Syracuse today released a list of 57 priests with credible allegations of child sex abuse against them.

Cunningham in a one-on-one interview discussed how church leaders, including himself, have evolved in their thinking about how the cases should be handled.

He acknowledged that in the past, pedophilia wasn't always treated as a crime. Instead, priests, including some in Syracuse, were often sent to Catholic psychiatric treatment centers such as the Southdown Institute in Canada or St. Luke's in Maryland.

"Not just in the church, but in society at large, there's been an evolving understanding of child sexual abuse, the trauma it causes, the difficulty it causes," Cunningham said. "I think our way of handling it, our way of treating people who have this illness and have committed this crime, has evolved over the years."

Cunningham, who was installed as Bishop of Syracuse in 2009, has served in church administration for decades, including for more than 30 years in the Buffalo diocese.

Critics have accused church leaders of covering up abuses and failing to remove problematic priests.

"I don't think the church ever intended to cover anything up, Cunningham said. "They frequently handled situations as families wanted or as society was doing at that time. I think it's a slow awakening to realize how serious this issue is. And it covers much more than the church."

Starting in 2002, the church began to change its practices for handling reports of abuse. The approval by U.S. bishops of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People meant priests could no longer be sent for treatment and then returned to active ministry.

"For a while it was treated as a sickness that we thought was treatable," Cunningham said. "We found that it wasn't treatable or at least not completely treatable.

The Syracuse diocese in 2002 also agreed to turn over all allegations of child sex abuse to local district attorneys.

Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said he has reviewed the list released by the diocese multiple times.

The diocese and the DA's office have taken steps to ensure that living priests with accusations against them -- there are nineteen in the Syracuse diocese -- do not pose any danger to children.

The diocese has a compliance officer who works with those priests and checks in with them on a regular basis.

Cunningham acknowledged that at this time, there is little else the diocese or law enforcement can do about them.

"Some live in the area. Some live outside the area," he said. "They are out in the community."

Cunningham said he hopes the release of the list will give some comfort to victims and community members.

He said his decision to release the names was for victims first and foremost.

As of September, a compensation program offered by the diocese had determined there were 85 victims.

Officials from SNAP, a national survivors network of people abused by priests, said in a statement they were grateful to Bishop Cunningham for releasing the names -- but the measure didn't go far enough.

SNAP called on Cunningham to publicize the list permanently online and regularly in parish bulletins. The group asked for the bishop to release additional information about the abuse allegations, including when they were first reported and who was involved in handling the complaints.

"It is important for accountability to find out who knew what, when they knew it, and what they chose to do with that information," the SNAP statement said.

Cunningham previously said part of the reason he had withheld the names of abusive priests was due to some victims' preferences. He said he consulted victims, including some who were against the release of the names, as well as diocesan leaders, including both clergy and members of the laity.

The bishop said he reached his decision after serious reflection and a lot of reading about "what's going on in the church and in the world."

"In making these decisions, it's been done always with the victim in mind, to help the victim," Cunningham said. "We try, certainly in recent months, to re-establish trust with people, good people, faithful Catholic people who find themselves confused and hurt, discouraged."

Cunningham, who is due to retire as bishop in the next several months, said he would remain committed to victims and taking appropriate steps to help them.

"We're hoping that this transparency will be one step along the way."

Public Affairs Reporter Julie McMahon covers courts, government and other issues affecting taxpayers. She can be reached anytime: Email | Twitter | 315-412-1992 Flash

President Xi Jinping sent a message on Saturday to United States President Donald Trump upon the death of former U.S. president George H.W. Bush.





On behalf of the Chinese government, the Chinese people and himself, Xi expressed heartfelt condolences and sympathy to all members of the Bush family.





Bush was an old friend of the Chinese people who had witnessed and promoted the historic development of China-U.S. relations over a span of more than 40 years. He contributed to the friendship between the two peoples, which the Chinese people will not forget, Xi said in the message.





Xi emphasized that for a long time, through the efforts of the leaders of the two countries and their people, China-U.S. relations have been advancing, bringing benefits to themselves and to people from other parts of the world.





China attaches great importance to China-U.S. relations and is willing to work with Trump to promote the development of bilateral relations along the right track, Xi added.





Neil Bush, a son of the late president, told China Daily earlier that his father often said the U.S.-China bilateral relationship was "the most important in the world".





"I respect Dad for having the perspective to share it openly and publicly," Neil Bush said.





Bush was elected as the 41st U.S. president in 1988. He is best remembered in China for his time in Beijing as the chief of the U.S. Liaison Office in China, the unofficial U.S. ambassador to the country in the mid-1970s, before diplomatic relations were established in 1979.





In one of Bush's last visits to China, in 2008 during the Beijing Olympics, he told reporters that "China is an important friend and supporter of the U.S."





Tao Wenzhao, a U.S. studies researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said Bush's passing was a big loss for people who believe in engagement and friendly Sino-US relations.





"Bush will be sorely missed as a leader whose vision and confidence in a strong U.S.-China relationship helped keep our relations from going off the rails, especially during difficult, testy times," Tao said. "I really hope the U.S. people and officials will ponder the legacy of Bush and learn from the lessons of our relations over the years."





Pang Zhongying, an international relations researcher at the Ocean University of China in Qingdao, Shandong province, also spoke highly of the former U.S. leader, describing him as a key diplomatic figure in China-U.S. relations.





"He left a lasting imprint on China-U.S. ties with his tremendous success in forging closer relations from the early 1970s," Pang said.SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Syracuse Bishop Robert Cunningham plans to release a list of priests with credible claims of child abuse against them as he awaits the naming of his successor.

Consideration for the next bishop was one of the reasons Cunningham, 75, gave in a letter distributed this weekend to the people of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse.

Cunningham had previously declined to release a list of names, a practice that has become more common in dioceses across the U.S. The Diocese of Ogdensburg, north of Syracuse, recently released a list. At that time, about 75 of the nearly 200 dioceses in the U.S. had released lists.

Cunningham previously said the Syracuse diocese was withholding a public list due to dissenting opinions among survivors of abuse. Some survivors asked for their abusers to be named, while others preferred the names remain private, according to the diocese. In response, the diocese would confirm the names of abusive priests only after victims went public with their accusations.

Cunningham announced Saturday he would reverse this policy. The diocese plans to release a list Monday.

"Upon serious reflection and prayer, I have concluded that this practice has become a roadblock to moving our local Church forward," Cunningham wrote to parishioners. "Additionally, I believe it is not fair to my successor whomever he is or whenever he comes, to leave him with this decision."

Cunningham celebrated his birthday June 18. Canon law required him to submit a letter of resignation to Pope Francis on that day.

Since then, the church has continued to be dogged by the clergy sex abuse scandal that came to light in the early 2000s. In August, a bombshell report by a Pennsylvania grand jury re-established the extent and breadth of the abuses.

In New York, the attorney general announced a statewide probe of dioceses' handling of the abuse cases, including in Syracuse. The Diocese of Buffalo, where Cunningham served as a top administrator for more than 30 years, has been slammed with accusations this year.

In October, a law firm representing several victims sued all eight dioceses in New York state, pushing for the release of the names of priests accused of sexual abuse.

"The news over the past few months of the tragic failings of the Catholic Church has been deeply distressing and has caused many to lose faith and trust," Cunningham wrote in his Dec. 1 letter. "It continues to weigh heavily on our hearts. Personally for me, as your bishop, I have prayerfully considered what I can do to help rebuild trust and forge a path to restoring and strengthening the faith."

In a June 2018 interview with The Catholic Sun, the official newspaper of the Diocese of Syracuse, Bishop Cunningham discussed his retirement plans.

He said he hoped to stay in Syracuse and would be available to the next bishop as he needed help. The Sun reported at the time it would likely be several months before a successor is named as his replacement.

In his letter, Cunningham said the list to be released Monday will include the names of both living and deceased priests who were removed from ministry as the result of a credible allegation of child abuse.

The names have already been provided to law enforcement, he wrote.

"There is no priest in active ministry with a credible complaint of child sex abuse and any allegations received have been decades old," Cunningham wrote.

Bishop Cunningham on priest list by Julie McMahon on Scribd

Public Affairs Reporter Julie McMahon covers courts, government and other issues affecting taxpayers. She can be reached anytime: Email | Twitter | 315-412-1992Philippines Aiming To Finalize Tax Reform By End Of October



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Astronauts have blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) less than two months after the previous Soyuz mission failed.

Astronauts Anne McClain from American space agency NASA, David Saint-Jacques from the Canadian Space Agency and Oleg Kononenko of the Russian space agency Roscosmos left aboard the Russian spacecraft from Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan just after 11.31am GMT.

Astronauts Anne McClain, Oleg Kononenko and David Saint-Jacques (NASA/PA)

The latest trip to the ISS comes after two astronauts from the US and Russia were forced to make an emergency landing on October 11, following an emergency shutdown of the three-stage booster at its second stage.

NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmoss Alexei Ovchinin safely landed back on Earth in an emergency capsule shortly after taking off.

The incident was the first manned launch failure for the Russian space programme since September 1983, when a Soyuz craft exploded on the launch pad. Soviet cosmonauts Vladimir Titov and Gennady Strekalov jettisoned and landed safely near the launch pad.

LIFTOFF! Shooting into the sky at 6:31am ET, the Soyuz rocket carrying @AstroAnnimal, @Astro_DavidS and Oleg Kononenko leaves Earth on six-hour journey to their new home on @Space_Station. Watch: https://t.co/i3hRugl4X4 pic.twitter.com/xrgYvSg8UQ  NASA (@NASA) December 3, 2018

If the launch of Soyuz MS-11 goes to plan on Monday, the trio should arrive at the ISS about six hours later.

We are psychologically and technically prepared for blast-off and any situation which, God forbid, may occur on board, said crew commander Kononenko in a news conference.

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Like this: Like Loading...In brief: Microsoft is killing two birds with one stone as its new feature makes PowerPoint more accessible to those with disabilities while simultaneously catering to those who speak a different language than the presenter.

Live presentations can be a powerful platform to teach and inspire but not everyone experiences them in the same manner. If you speak a different language than a presenter or are hard of hearing or deaf, you may not get as much out of a presentation as someone without those barriers.

Microsoft is looking to level the playing field in PowerPoint with live captions and subtitles.

Starting in late January 2019 for Office 365 subscribers, PowerPoint will have the ability to provide captions and subtitles in real-time. At launch, the AI-powered feature will support 12 spokes languages and 60+ caption / subtitle languages.

Microsoft said its speech recognition tech can automatically adapt to the presented content for more accurate recognition of specialized terminology and names. Presenters will also have the ability to customize the size, position and appearance of subtitles.

A similar feature already exists as an add-on called Presentation Translator although it's not quite as robust as what Microsoft is getting ready to bake directly into PowerPoint.

Microsoft this past May announced a five-year, $25 million initiative to use artificial intelligence to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Over the past three years, the Redmond tech giant has added some 30 accessibility features to Office 365.

Lead image courtesy StonePictures, ShutterstockA man in northern Illinois is facing charges over an attempt to give a police officer HIV by biting him in the leg.

HIV-Positive Christopher Seerden Tried To Bite Police Officer

Police said that the incident happened in June when police went to the home of Christopher Seerden for a well-being check.

Criminal complaints filed in McHenry County court claimed that the 37-year-old kicked and swung at one officer. After announcing he had AIDS, Seerden asked another officer if he wanted to have AIDS before biting him in the leg.

The police officer Seerden bit was, fortunately, wearing several layers of clothing so the bite did not break his skin or leave a mark. Cary Police Deputy Chief Jim Fillmore said that Seerden was taken to a hospital after the altercation.

The police, however, later found out that Seerden is indeed HIV positive after they received copies of his medical records On Oct. 7. Seerden now faces charges of transmitting HIV with body fluid, aggravated assault of a peace officer, and aggravated battery to a peace officer.

He was arrested on Wednesday and remained at the county jail on Friday evening on a $40,000 bond. He is due to appear in court on Dec. 14.

It is illegal in Illinois for people who are aware they have HIV to have unprotected sex, intentionally exchange non-sterile drug paraphernalia, and transfer bodily fluids like blood.

How HIV Is Transmitted

HIV is commonly spread by anal or vaginal sex with someone who has HIV without using a condom or taking medicines that prevent or treat the virus.

It also spreads through the sharing of equipment such as needles or syringes that were used by someone who has HIV. The AIDS-causing virus can thrive in used needle up to 42 days depending on temperature and other factors.

HIV can likewise be transmitted by eating food pre-chewed by HIV patients, being bitten by someone infected with the virus, or contact between wounds, broken skins, or blood-contaminated body fluids.

"Each of the very small number of documented cases has involved severe trauma with extensive tissue damage and the presence of blood," the CDC said. "There is no risk of transmission if the skin is not broken."

No cure is currently available for individuals infected with the HIV virus.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.Fifty one pilot whales are added to the number of already deceased whales in the third stranding event in New Zealand. Investigations are still ongoing to find out the case of the tragedy.

51 Pilot Whales Dead

For the third time in a single week, whales were found stranded on the shores of New Zealand. This time, the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) was informed of an overnight mass stranding of about 80 to 90 pilot whales at Hanson Bay near Owenga in Chatham Islands.

By the time that authorities arrived on the scene, about 30 to 40 of the whales had already re-floated and returned to sea but 51 still remained. Unfortunately, 50 of the whales were already dead, and authorities decided to euthanize the one left alive because it was already in very poor conditions and there was said to be no more likelihood of successfully saving it.

Sadly, the decision was made to euthanise. It was the most humane thing to do. This is always an awful decision to have to make, said DOC Chatham Islands Operations Manager Dave Carlton.

New Zealand Whale Strandings

The event was unfortunately already the third stranding event in New Zealand in a single week. Earlier in the week, 145 pilot whales were found stranded on Rakiura/Stewart Island in which none of the whales survived, while 10 pygmy killer whales were also found stranded on a beach in Northland.

As such, skin and blubber samples were already taken for testing, and the DOC is working with locals to help bury the deceased whales.

Marine Mammal Strandings

It is not entirely clear why marine mammals such as dolphins and mammals get stranded, but factors such as geographical features, rapidly falling tides, navigational errors, extreme weather, or being chased by a predator are possible causes.

In a video, DOC Technical Adviser Dr. Dave Lundquist explains that while it is natural to think that the events are related, there is so far no evidence to suggest that they are directly linked.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.A Charleston, South Carolina nurse is fined $500 for the 2012 death of a patient after an outpatient knee surgery. What caused the patients death?

Outpatient Surgery Death

On April 18, 2012, a 63-year-old patient underwent a knee arthroscopy, an outpatient surgery. After the procedure, the patient reported a 10 out of 10 on the pain scale, so nurse Laura Bilancione followed the post-operation order sheet in which it is stated that she could give the patient 0.2mg up to 4mg of Dilaudid every five minutes. Dilaudid is an opioid for the treatment of severe pain.

Bilancione administered a total of 4mg of Dilaudid from 9:02 to 9:28 in the morning. She also gave the patient 5mg of Percocet at 9:42 a.m. The patients pain level then went down from 10 to 3, and she was later discharged at 10 a.m.

However, the womans husband called 911 that afternoon because she reportedly had not woken up. She died five days later, with the cause of death being ruled as an accident due to probable mixed drug toxicity.

Specifically, the forensic autopsy of the woman cited fentanyl, promethazine, hydromorphone, oxycodone, and midazolam. Percocet contains oxycodone while Dilaudid contains hydromorphone.

Case Review

The case was reviewed in 2014, and it was found that Bilancione actually gave the patient a higher dose of Dilaudid than specified in the doctors order. Also, she gave the Percocet without any orders.

According to Bilancione, she panicked when the woman stated that her pain level was at 10 out of 10, and that the woman appeared to be fine when she left the facility. In fact, she was even able to dress herself before leaving. She further states that the case was an isolated incident in an otherwise remarkable nursing career.

Upon careful consideration of the circumstances surrounding the events, the South Carolina Nursing Board ordered Bilancione to pay a fine of $500. She also needs to complete two board approved education courses within six months and appear before the board if she wants her license to be reinstated.

The sanctions imposed are designed not to punish Respondent, but to protect the life, health, and welfare of the public at large, the board stated in the November order.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.Several dark web sellers voluntarily stop the distribution of the synthetic opioid fentanyl. This decision was made to avoid a police crackdown.

The National Crime Agency revealed that the high-strength painkiller, which is 100 times stronger than heroin, have been branded as a "high risk" commodity, lumping it alongside mass-casualty firearms and explosives.

Fentanyl Removed From Dark Web Marketplace

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drug overdoses killed more than 70,000 people in the United States in 2017. Fentanyl overdose accounted for more than 45 percent of those deaths.

However, the NCA does not think that dark web drug dealers wanted to join the fight against the opioid problem in the United States, Canada, and other places around the world. Vince O'Brien, one of the agency's drug investigators, believes that the product has been delisted by most sellers because it can easily lead to accidental overdose.

"If they've got people selling very high-risk commodities then it's going to increase the risk to them. There are marketplaces that will not accept listings for weapons and explosives  those are the ones that will not accept listings for fentanyl," he explained. "Clearly, law enforcement would prioritize the supply of weapons, explosives and fentanyl over, for example, class C drugs  and that might well be why they do this."

The authorities have already made arrests in the UK last year, including a 25-year-old man from Newport. The purchase and use of fentanyl caused 160 deaths in the United Kingdom in 2017.

The Fentanyl Problem

The increase in drug overdoses in the United States has contributed to the reduction of life expectancy of Americans in the past three years, a pattern unprecedented for a developed nation. Drug overdose is now one of the leading causes of death for American adults under the age of 55.

In October 2017, U.S. President Donald J. Trump declared that the ongoing opioid crisis is now a national public health emergency. In March, the White House launched CrisisNextDoor.gov, a website that aims to share real-life stories of people who are affected by the opioid crisis.

Public health officials warned that anyone who takes opioids, even those that were prescribed by doctors, can become addicted to the drug. The CDC revealed that one in four patients undergo long-term opioid therapy for opioid addiction.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Flash

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Sunday kicked off a two-day official visit to Algeria with members of Saudi government, businessmen and prominent personalities.





He was welcomed by Algerian Prime Minister, Ahmed Ouyahia, and ministers at the Houari Boumediene International Airport in Algiers.





The Saudi crown prince is due to meet top Algerian officials to discuss bilateral relations and developments in the oil market as well as a couple of international issues, Algerian Presidency Office said in a statement on Saturday.





The source added that the visit aims at "consolidating distinguished bilateral relations, and giving a new impetus to bilateral cooperation, as well as boosting partnership and investment projects and opening new horizons for businessmen in a bid to increase trade exchange and expand economic partnership between the two countries."





The visit is also due to boost various bilateral workshops emanating from the 13th meeting Algerian-Saudi Joint Committee held in Riyadh in April, which resulted in the signing of several cooperation agreements.





The two parties will also discuss and exchange views on some prominent political and economic issues in the Arab and international regions.





The issues include the Palestinian issue and the situation in some sister countries, in addition to the recent developments in global oil market.An old saying says that if life gives you lemons, then you make lemonade, but what do you do if life gives you rice?

Many in south Louisiana would say you make a gumbo, but one Branch business has decided to do something different with its excess rice. In July, Michael and Mark Fruge, owners of Fruge Aquafarms and Fruge Seafood, launched a new sister company, Fruge Spirits, and used that rice for a new product: rice vodka they call J.T. Meleck.

"We've been working on this for about two years and we went to market in July," Michael Fruge said. "I'm in seafood, so I see a lot of the foodie trends, and this is something that has always intrigued me."

Fruge's family has been farming rice in this Acadia Parish community since 1896. They expanded into using the fields for crawfish as many farmers have done over the past century since commercial rice farming became popular, but making alcohol from rice was a new concept for the Fruges and fairly unique for vodka.

Only a few distilleries worldwide make vodka from rice, and it's been done in Louisiana as well, but Fruge has a theory as to why distilling rice vodka hasn't caught on even more.

Can't see video below? Click here.

Large-scale rice farming outside of Louisiana didn't begin to really take off in America until the 1910s and 1920s, and prohibition stopped farmers from experimenting with leftover rice that was beginning to go bad like they did for generations through grains like barley, wheat and corn. Having gone to conventions and from talking to people, Fruge wondered why rice vodka wasn't more common.  Is there something wrong with it? So we went ahead and distilled some and thought it was pretty good. So it must be that no one ever really tried," he said.

The desire to add value to his rice crop was what pushed Fruge into venturing into this territory of spirits.

From that came J.T. Meleck, named for Fruge's great-great-uncle John Meleck.

Local supermarkets, including Rouses, Champagne's and Nunu's, are selling the spirits after successful tastings held at their locations. Fruge said they've begun to take off in Acadiana and are moving into the Lake Charles, Baton Rouge and New Orleans markets.

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Vodka lovers have said J.T. Meleck is smooth, has no smell and needs very little dirt to make a good martini, which are all hallmarks of a good vodka.

"We have a really good tasting product," he said. "People who try it really like it. What makes it do that, I don't know. Maybe we got lucky, but we put a lot of effort into it. So I hope we did a little more than just get lucky."

Louisiana's rice farmers produce hundreds of millions of dollars worth of rice every year. In 2014, 3.4 billion pounds of rice was produced at a total value of more than $670 million.

However, according Jeremy Hebert, county agricultural agent in Acadia Parish at the LSU AgCenter, the profit margin for rice is small and having another product that rice can be used for may help farmers offset their costs.

"It usually costs between $600 and $700 an acre to grow rice, and rice is selling cheap," Hebert said. "Any time you have these value-added products or a niche market, it's a good thing. These farmers need more ways to help offset the costs."

The Fruges also are working on a rice whiskey that will hopefully see fruition once they're finished aging in a couple years. Fruge said they have about 9,000 cases of whiskey that they began aging this March and looking for the day it's ready.

"No one knows how long it's going to take. So we're aging them in barrels and tasting and testing right now. No one knows if it's going to be good or not. It's an expensive experiment, I guess, but I had this intuition and decided to go for it."

The goal though is to someday make J.T. Meleck a national brand, he said. Right now, the amount of rice needed to meet demand is easily being met, but Fruge said if it really takes off they may buy from other farmers or contract out farmers to help them grow more, which would further boost the local rice industry.

"We've been in the market since July and I think we're doing pretty well considering the territory we've been able to cover," he said. "It'll be years before we're a national brand, but that's the goal. You can make a lot of vodka out of 9 million pounds of rice, and we haven't even scratched that. But if we do run out, there's plenty more rice out there we can use."In a normal year, John Good can easily handle a rainy harvest season for his 1,300 acres of soybeans in Pointe Coupee Parish.

He would simply haul his harvested crop to a nearby grain elevator, which would buy the beans at a discount if they were more damaged than normal from rain. That elevator would sell the soybeans to an export elevator on the Mississippi River like Louis Dreyfus, which would find an overseas buyer, usually in China.

However, this has not been a normal year for Good.

I probably have one of the best crops Ive ever had as far as yield, Good said. It was the biggest disaster Ive ever had as far as trying to sell them.

China is by far the largest market for U.S.  and Louisiana  soybeans. This year, China has dramatically reduced its imports since tacking a 25 percent tariff on U.S. soybeans in retaliation to the Trump administration's tariffs against Chinese products. A truce, worked out between the U.S. and China over the weekend at the G-20 summit in Argentina, puts in place a 90-day cease on expanding or implementing any new tariffs but has no effect on tariffs in place that already have affected soybean farmers.

How China's expected retaliation against U.S. tariffs will affect Louisiana soybean farmers A Louisiana soybean farmer is bracing for a $150,000 hit annually from China's expected retaliation against U.S. tariffs set to go into effect

As a result of the tariff on soybeans, grain elevators had a harder time finding buyers for the crop, and the grain stacked up in storage facilities. Farmers in turn couldnt find grain elevators willing to buy their crop, especially because it was more damaged by rain than a normal year.

The problems have snowballed into a disaster for many Louisiana soybean farmers, especially in the southwest part of the state. Many had to leave their soybeans in the field, and more and more rain caused the crop to rot to the point where it was unusable. The beans that were usable sold for less money, as waning overseas demand drove down prices.

I have 200 acres in the field; were just going to plow them under next spring, Good said. Thats heartbreaking right there to look at 200 acres. Thats a lot of beans. Thats a lot of money.

Now, he and other farmers are discovering that federal aid intended to help farmers hurt by the trade dispute with China won't cover crops that weren't harvested, though an effort is underway to remedy that.

Farmers will have to rely solely on what they can get from more traditional farm programs, which won't fully cover their losses and one of which involves going into debt.

The Farm Service Agency for Louisiana, a division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, already has requested a weather-related disaster declaration for soybean farmers in 15 parishes, said Mike Bonnette, farm loan specialist with the agency. The parishes are Vermilion, Jefferson Davis, Calcasieu, Cameron, Acadia, Beauregard, St. Landry, Catahoula, Avoyelles, Ascension, Lafourche, Assumption, St. James, St. John the Baptist and Terrebonne.

Another four parishes  Caddo, Bossier, Pointe Coupee and Evangeline  are expected to be requested this week.

If the declarations are approved, farmers in those parishes could get access to low-interest emergency loans to help fund their losses.

Can't see video below? Click here.

Farmers also can take advantage of crop insurance, which helps ease the burden of a bad season but does not generally make farmers whole.

To help farmers hurt specifically by the tariffs, the Trump administration has administered a separate aid program that provides $1.65 per bushel of soybeans for half their total production, with the other half expected to be funded later.

But thats not helping many of the Louisiana farmers who are plowing under crops too damaged by weather and were trying to sell their crop in a glutted market that was limiting purchases to a better quality of beans than normal. The tariff-related law allows for aid to be sent only to producers with harvested acres. U.S. Rep. Ralph Abraham, R-Alto, has written a bill that would change that, allowing planted acres to qualify for the Market Facilitation Program to help farmers who are having to plow under or leave crops unharvested.

We were at capacity with nowhere to send the product, Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain said. Without those major buyers, we had significant damage to the beans, and we did not have enough of high-quality beans (to sell).

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Even if Abrahams bill passes, Strain warns that farmers wont be made whole, even if they have crop insurance.

Abraham introduces bill to help Louisiana soybean farmers U.S. Rep. Ralph Abraham introduced a bill that could help more soybean farmers participate in the tariff relief program.

He expects to see fewer soybean acres planted next year in Louisiana as a result.

Grain elevators typically buy soybeans that have a portion of the beans damaged, paying heavier discounts for higher amounts of damage. They then blend those beans with higher-quality ones to create a mix that is marketable to customers. The largest use for U.S. soybeans, both domestically and abroad, is for animal feed, according to the United Soybean Board. Some elevators in normal years would buy beans up to 20 percent to 30 percent damaged.

This year, lagging demand led elevators to grade beans far more harshly than normal, in some cases not buying soybeans that were more than 5 percent damaged. Farmers said the Louis Dreyfus grain elevator at the Port of Greater Baton Rouge was taking no higher than 5 percent damaged soybeans for a time. The latest discount schedule on its website showed it was rejecting damage higher than 10 percent as of Oct. 5. The firms media office didnt return messages seeking comment.

Richard Fontenot had beans in his Vermilion Parish field that were about 10 percent damaged, with nowhere to go. As they sat in the field, relentless rains brought the damage to 20 percent, then 40 percent, and soon they were upward of 70 percent damaged and totally unmarketable.

We werent even privileged to discounts at those high levels, Fontenot said. There was zero tolerance.  Its a completely different environment.

Fontenot said he plowed 1,000 acres of soybeans into the dirt.

For the marketing year that runs from Sept. 1 to Aug. 31, the U.S. exported 339,000 metric tons to China through Nov. 15, USDA figures show. That is a dramatic 97 percent decline from the same period a year ago, when the U.S. exported 13.6 million metric tons in the first month and a half of the marketing year.

While it is not clear exactly how much of Louisianas soybean crop was damaged, destroyed or unable to be sold, the LSU Agricultural Center conducted a survey of farmers in October and estimated as much as 15 percent of soybean acres were not harvested or were unmarketable.

Even if producers were able to market the crop, Kurt Guidry, extension economist and director of the AgCenters southwest region, said price discounts still affected them. He estimated about 800 of the states 2,346 or so soybean farmers likely had significant damage.

While China has panned U.S. soybeans this year, other markets have picked up some of the slack. For instance, Mexico, the second-largest market, has 2.3 million metric tons in purchases on the books so far this year, compared with 864,400 metric tons during the same period last year.

Still, Guidry said, it has not been nearly enough to offset the losses.

Kyle McCann, associate commodity director at the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation, said Mexico is a distant second to China.

China imports roughly $20 billion in U.S. agricultural commodities annually, including 60 percent of U.S. soybeans. About 57 percent of the Louisiana crop is sold to China.

China is the state's largest trading partner overall, with $7.9 billion worth of products shipped from the state, according to Louisiana Economic Development data. Of that, $5.7 billion is agricultural products, mostly soybeans. That includes not only products from Louisiana farmers but also shipments passing through from other states via Louisiana's sprawling network of inland waterways, commercial facilities and ports.

Louisiana's soybean crop was in a precarious position with the trade dispute, McCann said, because it is set up almost entirely for exports, while some other states have domestic crushing facilities that will buy the crop. In fact, Good, the Pointe Coupee farmer, was able to haul some of his crop to a crushing facility in Mississippi.

But nothing has come close to replacing the losses, McCann said, and a wide swath of Louisiana was hit.

Its a pretty widespread thing, he said. It wasnt just a little local matter.Dueling Baton Rouge personal injury lawyers Gordon McKernan and E. Eric Guirard apparently are in no mood to settle a lawsuit over their respective advertising slogans, so a federal magistrate has set a jury trial for mid-2019.

McKernan filed suit in U.S. District Court in June, alleging Guirard infringed upon McKernan's trademarked "G Guarantee" ad slogan with his "E Guarantee" pitch.

McKernan also accuses Guirard of identity misappropriation by airing a "big rig" television ad that mocked McKernan. The ad depicts a man bearing McKernan's likeness plunging off an 18-wheeler while filming a commercial spot.

Some of McKernan's TV commercials show him atop a big rig with his arms folded.

Not to be outdone by McKernan's allegations, Guirard responded to the suit with counter claims against McKernan, a sure sign a settlement is highly unlikely. Both sides are seeking damages.

+4 In Baton Rouge lawyer dustup, Guirard answers McKernan's infringement claim, countersues A heated dispute between Baton Rouge personal injury lawyers Gordon McKernan and E. Eric Guirard over accusations of ripping off advertising s

In recently filed court documents, attorneys for McKernan and Guirard each requested a jury trial and said no efforts have been made to settle the dispute. The attorneys also stated they don't wish to have a settlement conference.

So U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard Bourgeois Jr. scheduled a four-day trial to begin June 3, 2019. Senior U.S. District Judge James Brady will preside over the trial.

Guirard began using his "E Guarantee" slogan in the mid-1990s, but he was disbarred by the Louisiana Supreme Court in 2009. The high court restored his law license in 2016, and Guirard has resumed using his old slogan.

McKernan, whose trademark portfolio includes "Get Gordon" and "Stand Up to Big Trucks," trademarked "Get the G Guarantee" in 2014.

His lawyers argue in court documents that after Guirard's disbarment, E. Eric Guirard and Associates "deliberately ceased usage of the 1995 E Guarantee Trademark with no intention to ever resume usage of the mark."

McKernan contends the "G Guarantee" and "E Guarantee" trademarks are "confusingly similar."

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Guirard's attorneys deny that Guirard's trademarked slogan was abandoned while he was disbarred, and they accuse McKernan of "muscling in" on Guirard's long-standing trademark and related slogans and imagery.

As for Guirard's mocking TV commercial, his lawyers call it "an obvious parody" of McKernan's marketing efforts.

By "poking fun" at McKernan's advertising, Guirard's TV spot "only emphasizes the differences between the two law firms and negates any likelihood of confusion," Guirard's attorneys maintain.

The complained-of commercial contains the following dialogue: "I'm injury lawyer E. Eric Guirard. If you've been in an accident, I don't know  car wreck, big slip, falling off an 18-wheeler while shooting a TV commercial, I can h  G whiz. Are you OK? So, don't fall for a copycat. Get an original  E. Eric Guirard."

The spot ends by saying, "No real lawyers were hurt filming this commercial."

McKernan's lawyers accuse Guirard of unfair and deceptive trade practices.

Both Guirard and his then-law partner, Thomas Pittenger, were disbarred because of what the state Supreme Court called their "business first" model, which included rewarding the firm's nonlawyer case managers for settling cases as fast as possible, the high court said.

E. Eric Guirard allowed to resume practice of law in Louisiana Former Baton Rouge personal-injury lawyer E. Eric Guirards seven-year hiatus from practicing law in Louisiana came to an end Friday.

The justices restored Pittenger's law license in 2015.

Guirard remains under supervised probation until next spring.A heated dispute between Baton Rouge personal injury lawyers Gordon McKernan and E. Eric Guirard over accusations of ripping off advertising slogans and imagery just got hotter.

In recent court filings, Guirard asked a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit McKernan filed against him in late June for alleged trademark infringement. Guirard also struck back by filing a countersuit against McKernan.

Guirard has resumed using his "E Guarantee" trademarked slogan that he used for many years prior to his 2009 disbarment by the Louisiana Supreme Court, which restored his law license in 2016.

McKernan, meanwhile, has been using his "G Guarantee" slogan in his advertising since obtaining a trademark on the slogan in 2014 and wants Senior U.S. District Judge James Brady to prohibit Guirard from using his own signature "E Guarantee" catch phrase. McKernan's attorneys claim the "E Guarantee" slogan was officially abandoned during Guirard's disbarment.

In a court-filed answer to McKernan's suit, Guirard's attorneys allege that McKernan "sought to capitalize" on Guirard's disbarment by "muscling in" on Guirard's longstanding trademark and related slogans and imagery. Guirard is asking that McKernan be stopped from using his "G Guarantee" slogan.

The legal spat also involves Guirard's mocking television commercial that depicts a man bearing McKernan's likeness falling off an 18-wheeler while filming a TV ad.

McKernan is asking Brady to order Guirard to stop using McKernan's image and likeness without authorization in commercial advertisements for legal services.

Guirard's attorneys contend McKernan's and his law firm's motive in using and obtaining registration rights in the "G Guarantee" and "Lawyer on a Truck" trademarks "was not to identify and differentiate their own services in the legal marketplace, but rather was calculated to hinder and obstruct (Guirard's and his firm's) attempts to engage in legitimate competition" with McKernan and his firm.

Guirard's attorneys also allege McKernan's use of his "G Guarantee" was intended to "sow confusion" with Guirard's longstanding use of similar trademarks and to "tee up this very legal dispute in an effort to drain (Guirard and his firm) of time, money, and other critical resources."

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McKernan's suit likewise alleges the two lawyers slogans are "confusingly similar" and likely to cause confusion in the marketplace.

As for Guirard's mocking TV spot, his attorneys contend the ad is an "obvious parody" of McKernan's marketing efforts and they say McKernan is not the "gatekeeper of images featuring both a man and a truck for the entire trucking-litigation marketplace." McKernan's popular TV spots show him standing atop a big rig with arms folded.

McKernan's attorneys, in their court-filed answer to Guirard's counterclaim, also maintain Guirard "committed fraud" in 2014 by filing an intent-to-use trademark application for the "E Guarantee" slogan at a time when he was still disbarred and prohibited from practicing law.

Guirard's court filing says the application to register the trademark "E Guarantee" was filed "in anticipation of Mr. Guirard's readmission to the practice of law in Louisiana."

Guirard and his then-law partner, Thomas R. Pittenger, were disbarred in 2009 because of what the state Supreme Court called their "business first" model, which included rewarding the firm's non-lawyer case managers for settling cases as quickly as possible, the high court said. Pittenger's law license was given back to him in 2015. Guirard is under supervised probation until next spring.

McKernan's suit alleges both trademark infringement and misappropriation of identity, and seeks monetary damages. Guirard also seeks damages.

Guirard and his firm are represented by Metairie lawyer Eric O'Bell and Albert Myers, of Georgia. McKernan's lawyers are Michael Rhea, Michael Leachman and Donald Washington with the Jones Walker law firm. Flash

Russia is ready to resume dialogue with the United States under an offer from U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton as soon as Washington is ready for that, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Sunday.





Bolton contacted Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov and confirmed that the two countries would like to resume and normalize dialogue, Lavrov told state TV channel Rossiya-1 on the sidelines of the G20 (Group of 20) summit.





"We are ready for this, as soon as our colleagues are ready for this," Lavrov said, according to a transcript published by his ministry.





On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump called off a previously scheduled meeting with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the G20 summit, citing the ongoing Russia-Ukraine confrontation surrounding the Sea of Azov.





Russia expressed disappointment at Washington's decision, saying the move was a result of U.S. internal politics and lack of an agenda.





Moscow and Washington were in contact after Trump called off the meeting, but the two leaders are unlikely to hold talks in the near future, the Kremlin said Saturday.





Ushakov said it is possible for Putin and Trump to hold a meeting before the next G20 summit in 2019.State Police have completed their probe into the October scuffle involving two Brusly police officers and a middle school student  a confrontation captured on school surveillance cameras that has since drawn concern from residents and local officials who have pledged to hold the officers accountable.

The case will be presented later this month to a West Baton Rouge grand jury, which will determine whether the officers will ultimately face charges. No arrests have been made thus far but both officers have resigned from the department amid questions about whether their actions constituted excessive force.

State Police spokesman Senior Trooper Bryan Lee said Monday that investigators have handed over their report to the West Baton Rouge District Attorney's Office after completing it Thursday. And Assistant District Attorney Tony Clayton said the case will go before a grand jury on Dec. 13.

+4 After Brusly officer slammed boy, he was psychologically, physically injured, attorney says The grandmother of a middle schooler involved in a scuffle with a Brusly police officer last month  a confrontation caught by a school office

Clayton said the grand jury will hear from school staff who witnessed the struggle and from the Brusly police chief as well as State Police investigators and the two officers in question. It's important for grand jurors to hear from all sides and make a decision based on the totality of information available, Clayton said.

Dozens of residents gathered Monday evening in Brusly to demand justice on behalf of the student involved in the case. The group marched together to Town Hall, where some spoke before local officials during a scheduled town council meeting.

"We want the facts," Shaeeta Williams, a former teacher whose son attends Brusly Middle School, told the town council. "This is a situation that upset many of us. And we come in peace, but we also come disturbed and upset and confused on how the situation took place."

Can't see video below? Click here.

Williams said she hopes members of the grand jury will approach the case with an open mind.

"This is about opening our eyes and realizing that we are all each other's keepers. We have to know the heartbeat of what's going on with our children in our schools," she said. "The elephant in the room is racial tension. This is not just an issue in Brusly  we see it throughout Louisiana and across the country. But as a black mother, that is a concern for me: that a child could be mistreated because of the color of his skin."

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Controversy surrounding the incident has continued to grow after surveillance footage was leaked to the media last month. The videotape shows Officer Anthony "Kip" Dupre wrestling the Brusly Middle School student to the ground and then picking him up and slamming him to the floor during an encounter on Oct. 5. Dupre claimed the student had reached for his service weapon and the video appears to show the officer handing his holstered gun to a school staffer during the encounter in the school's administrative office.

A second officer, Dan Cipirano, arrived near the end of the struggle and helped handcuff the student. Both officers were placed on paid leave but have since resigned. Neither had his body camera on during the scuffle.

Brusly Police Chief Jonathan Lefeaux requested a State Police investigation after viewing the surveillance footage, which he has described as deeply concerning. He also requested that both officers resign from the department before that investigation had concluded.

+2 Leaked video: Brusly officer slams middle school student twice; police chief shocked Video footage of a police officer wrestling with a 14-year-old Brusly Middle School student last month has leaked in the midst of a Louisiana 

Attorney Kwame Asante, who is representing the family of the middle school student, told reporters last week that the child's family believes they were deceived and that authorities were not open about the officer's actions until the video came to light publicly. He and the boy's grandmother believe the child was physically and psychologically injured in the encounter, which they have described as a civil rights violation.

The family is considering a lawsuit, possibly against both the school system and the police department.

Baton Rouge activist Arthur "Silky Slim" Reed  who received media attention after his public comments about the 2016 police shooting of Alton Sterling  attended the Brusly council meeting Monday night. He came wearing a noose around his neck to make a statement about police brutality against the black community, arguing that people should take incidents like this more seriously.

"If we don't catch the small issues like this, then they turn into big issues. And that's when you see young men being killed by the same types of police officers," he said. "It's bad. It's very bad and it's being treated like it's no big deal. So we need to let people know that this is a very serious issue  and our eyes are on Brusly."

Can't see video below? Click here.A handful of out-of-state billionaires pushing for charter schools and other "education reforms" have spent a sliver of their fortunes on East Baton Rouge Parish School Board races, records show.

They include a Houston hedge fund manager who got his start at Enron, the former mayor of New York City, the co-founder of LinkedIn, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs and the son of the Walmart founder Sam Walton.

John Arnold, Mike Bloomberg, Reid Hoffman, Laurene Jobs and Jim Walton have all contributed to help elect School Board candidates that support their school reform agenda.

Candidates and outside groups have raised more than $600,000 so far for this fall's School Board elections from all sources. The only race yet to be decided is in District 2 where Dadrius Lanus is challenging incumbent Vereta Lee.

+5 Sparks fly in District 2 School Board debate; Baton Rouge constable candidates refrain from attacks Incumbent Vereta Lee and challenger Dadrius Lanus traded jabs at a forum Tuesday over whos backing their campaigns and about their respective

The deadline for candidates in these elections to disclose recent fundraising and spending was last Wednesday. The latest reports cover activity between Oct. 18 and Nov. 18. The next reports arent due until Jan. 17.

As of late Sunday, Lee, re-elected District 4 incumbent Dawn Collins, and unsuccessful challengers Cliff Lewis and Tammy Dabadie had not submitted reports. Those four individuals face daily late fines from the Louisiana Board of Ethics.

Arnold, the Houston hedge fund manager, and Walton, the son of Walmart founder Sam Walton, are by far the biggest donors so far, giving $160,000 and $100,000, respectively. Their largesse has gone to charter-school friendly education reform and business organizations that have been spending money independently on behalf of several School Board candidates.

Those organizations have reported spending almost $350,000 so far, close to three times what the candidates themselves have reported spending on their campaigns.

About $253,000 of that $350,000 has been spent on just two races: District 2 and District 3. In District 3, Tramelle Howard narrowly defeated incumbent Kenyetta Nelson-Smith on Nov. 6.

The other seven incumbents have been re-elected to new four-year terms.

Howards victory increased the size of a business-backed majority on the board from 6-3 to 7-2. That majority could increase to 8-1 if challenger Lanus beats incumbent Lee in Saturday's election.

Arnold is giving via Action Now Initiative, the advocacy arm of a private foundation he runs with his wife, Laura, that supports a variety of initiatives and candidates around the country. The Arnolds and their advocacy group have given nearly $1 million to Louisiana school elections since 2011.

The Arnolds latest infusion is split between two groups: $100,000 to Education Reform Now Advocacy, or ERNA, an advocacy group affiliated with the better known Democrats for Education Reform; and $60,000 to Future PAC, a political action committee of the Baton Rouge Area Chamber.

Walton, who gave money in his own name split his $100,000 three ways: $55,000 to ERNA, $25,000 to the Louisiana Charter School Associations political action committee, and $20,000 to Future PAC.

Walton and his sister, Alice, have contributed more than $1.5 million to school elections in Louisiana since 2009.

Jobs, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, and Hoffman, the co-founder of LinkedIn, have spent far less than the Arnolds and Jim Walton: $4,000 and $5,000 respectively. They each gave contributions to Howard as well Chrisdelin Kelly Lyles, who lost her bid to unseat Collins in District 4. Both have contributed a lot more money to school elections in other states.

Caroline Roemer, executive director of the states charter school association, said organizations like the one she heads rely on a handful of national donors willing to invest in local School Board races as opposed to the many, often sexier, causes out there competing for their dollars.

It takes money to run campaigns, she said. I would love to see more people invest in such campaigns.

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Barely a decade ago, local School Board candidates spent far less, maybe $5,000 to $25,000 during a typical election.

A 2010 survey asked sitting School Board members nationwide how much they spent on the most recent election campaign. In districts with more than 15,000 students  East Baton Rouge Parish has 41,000 students  only 10 percent of School Board member spent more than $25,000.

Roemer makes no apologies for helping to drive up the costs of local School Board elections, saying the stakes are too high to allow for the status quo.

Frankly, we have sat around and allowed for generational failure, she said.

Baton Rouge Chamber urges School Board candidates to 'stop handwringing' on universal early childhood education The Capital regions foremost business lobby says it supports placing a tax proposition on the ballot that would pay for universal early chil

Future PACs $60,000 grant arose from an application the Baton Rouge Area Chamber made for funding support to Action Now Initiative, said Liz Smith, senior vice president for economic competitiveness with the business organization.

The $60,000 is being used to promote a 10-part platform of policies that BRAC announced in July along with the candidates who support it, Smith said.

The platform calls for opening high-performing schools, closing underperforming schools and creating a special office to work closely with charter schools. It also called for the next School Board to commit to placing a tax proposition on the ballot that would pay for universal early childhood education in Baton Rouge.

FuturePac in October reported spending $35,000 on mailers and digital ads on behalf of incumbents Evelyn Ware-Jackson and Michael Gaudet, who were re-elected to districts 5 and 7.

Smith said the groups November report, which has not yet been filed, will also include additional spending to support Lanuss bid to unseat Lee in District 2.

Future PAC also contributed $32,500 directly to candidates in the six active school board races as well as $2,500 to School Board President David Tatman, who was re-elected after he drew no opponent.

Lanus has received the most from Future PAC, $10,000; that's about two-thirds of all the moneys hes reported raising directly for his campaign.

Did you know? In Baton Rouge School Board races, out-of-state spending playing major role A charter-school friendly group based in New York City is spending nearly twice as much as all the candidates combined who are seeking a seat 

Education Reform Now Advocacy and Stand for Children have reported the most independent spending on School Board elections so far, $191,000 and $91,000, respectively. They are national groups working through Louisiana chapters.

Both groups receive the bulk of their money from undisclosed donors who give to their parent organization based in New York City and Portland, Oregon, respectively, though they also receive money from named donors as well.

Bloomberg, the billionaire former New York mayor, is one. He gave ERNA $300,000 in June 2016, via his philanthropic arm. In November 2017, Bloomberg gave the related group, Democrats for Education Reform, $50,000. The following month, he gave Stand for Childrens independent expenditure committee $25,000.

One reliable donor to past Baton Rouge School Board elections has not been as visible this year.

Cajun Industries founder Lane Grigsby, who put up tens of thousands of dollars in 2010 and 2014, has made just three donations thus far this cycle, totaling $6,000.Porn actress Stormy Daniels is set to join a protest on Dec. 9 at the State Capitol over the age requirement for adult entertainers, officials said Monday.

The target of the protest is a 2016 state law that makes it illegal for women 18-20 to dance at gentlemen's clubs.

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on Nov. 16 that Louisiana can enforce an age limit of 21 for erotic dancers in bars and nightclubs.

Backers said the measure was designed to reduce human trafficking.

"We thought from day one that the law was constitutional," Sen. Ronnie Johns, R-Lake Charles, said Monday.

The law had been challenged by three young women who said it cost them the lucrative income they had as strip dancers and infringed on their First Amendment rights to free expression.

Daniels is spokeswoman for Deja Vu Services, Inc., which represents nearly 200 strip clubs and adult retail stores worldwide.

She alleges she had an affair with President Donald Trump in 2006, which the president denies.

Daniels has sued the president to void the confidentiality agreement she signed just before the 2016 presidential election.

"Deja Vu and its affiliated Hustler Clubs in New Orleans felt that Stormy's wide appeal and superb communication skills would be a great addition to their public relations and lobbying efforts," according to a press release.

Last month's court ruling reversed an earlier decision.

+4 Louisiana's ban on strippers under 21 halted as court hears challenge to new law In a win for Louisianas adult entertainment industry, a federal judge has ruled that Louisiana cannot enforce a new law banning strip club pe

The protest is set for 4 p.m.

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Backers said the law was needed since undercover operations by law enforcement have found underage youths and foster children were targeted to work at clubs.

Johns said requiring women to be at least 21 years old in strip clubs is also consistent with state policy.

"We don't allow anyone in casinos under the age of 21 to work," he said.

"We don't allow anyone under 21 years of age to purchase alcohol," Johns said.

"We have a number of laws on the books in the state where the age of 21 is the threshold," he added. "We thought it was a reasonable thing to do."

The law won approval in the Senate 33-0, cleared the House 96-0 and was signed by Gov. John Bel Edwards.

Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards signs law raising minimum stripper age to 21 Louisiana strip clubs will be barred from hiring dancers under the age of 21, under a new law signed by the governor.

"I don't feel the Legislature is going back and trying to undo what we have done," Johns said.

The legislation was overshadowed for a time by a separate controversy.

State Rep. Kenny Havard, R-St. Francisville, offered an amendment  he said it was a joke  that would have required that strippers be youthful and thin.

+7 Video: Hear laughter, sharp rebukes following Louisiana lawmaker's 'joke' proposal on strippers' weight, age During a debate about a bill to regulate strip clubs, a state representative proposed an amendment  in jest, he says  that the strippers sho

The proposal sparked criticism from female lawmakers, who called it sexist.

Havard later withdrew the amendment.Just before the midterms, U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond made a prediction: If Democrats get in the majority  which I think we will  you will see us very quickly vote to raise the minimum wage, for paid family leave . . . and for criminal justice reform. Now that Democrats have taken the House, will that promised paid leave vote make its way to the floor?

Richmond may have an ally in U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, chairman of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Social Security, Pensions, and Family Policy. Holding hearings in July on the subject, Cassidy said his motivations to pass paid leave were threefold: improving health outcomes, helping families manage work and home responsibilities, and creating incentives to stay in the workforce, which supports productivity and economic growth.

More than 65 million Americans, provide care for a chronically ill, disabled, or aged family member or friend each year, and each year about 4 million babies are born in the United States. Despite these statistics, only 14 percent of American workers have paid leave through their employer. Louisiana families are particularly disadvantaged with only 35 percent of new moms able to take any paid leave compared to 55 percent of moms nationwide.

Both Democrats and Republicans agree the status quo is unsustainable and have proposed various plans, but movement on these options is long overdue. The Family Medical Leave Act passed in 1993 offered job protections to millions, but it did not provide the economic security a paid leave policy would ensure. Both political parties recognize that adopting a national policy is good for business, families, state government, and the overall economy and country. The only question is how we will get it done.

A national paid leave policy is good for businesses. Right now, the status quo has small businesses competing for workers with larger companies better able to provide such attractive benefits to their employees. The Institute for Womens Policy Research studies show that paid leave increases the likelihood that workers will return to work after childbirth, improves employee morale, has no or positive effects on workplace productivity, improves employee retention and family incomes.

A national paid leave policy is good for families. Studies show that paid-leave programs can substantially reduce infant mortality rates and better a child's overall health  and that fathers who take two or more weeks off after their child is born are more involved in their child's care nine months later. A report by the United Way of Southeast Louisiana indicates that 42 percent of Louisiana households earn below or just above the Federal Poverty Level, but not enough to afford a basic household budget of housing, child care, food, transportation, and health care. Financial stress  like a lack of paid leave  contributes to bad maternal and child health.

According to a report by the Mary Amelia Center at Tulane Universitys School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Louisiana is second highest among all U.S. states for rates of low birth weight and preterm births, conditions that increase risk for neonatal morbidity and long-term deficits in growth and development. Paid family leave is better for babies, mothers, and fathers who need time to establish critical bonding that will affect everyones health in the long term.

Tulane researcher to study why women in Louisiana die more often from pregnancy than in other states The United States is the most dangerous nation in the developed world in which to give birth, and Louisiana is among the states with the highe

A national family leave policy is good for states and the country. Studies have found that women are 39 percent less likely to receive public assistance and 40 percent less likely to receive food stamps in the year following a child's birth compared to those who didn't have any leave. IWPR research further suggests that expanding paid leave is likely to have economy-wide benefits such increased labor force participation, which would bring concomitant economic gains, generating a larger tax base and increased consumer spending.

Movement on paid leave in Congress is critical so that businesses, workers, parents, and caregivers have a chance to voice their concerns about the balance of work and family in our country. Contact Cassidy and Richmond and ask that paid leave be considered one of the top priorities in the 116th Congress. Everyone is ready for a plan. Lets talk about how to get there equitably.

Anna Mahoney is the director of research and administrative assistant professor of womens political leadership at Newcomb College Institute, Tulane University. She is also a member of the Scholars Strategy Network.House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of Calif., speaks during a news conference in opposition to the Republican tax bill, Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2017, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) ORG XMIT: DCJM106So what was that, U.S. Sen. John Kennedys months-long flirtation with a gubernatorial run not even halfway into his first U.S. Senate term, other than a great big tease?

For one thing, it was a nice gift to Gov. John Bel Edwards, who now doesnt have a well-known Republican opponent on the horizon.

And it was a lump of coal for Kennedys fellow Republicans, particularly the ones who believe that Edwards decisive 2015 win in a reliably Republican state was a fluke. With U.S. Rep .Steve Scalise, Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser, Attorney General Jeff Landry and pretty much every other major Republican figure already having already said that they wont challenge the governor next fall, the party really doesnt have a Plan B.

Sure, Eddie Rispone, a wealthy businessman, has declared his candidacy, and U.S. Rep. Ralph Abraham is still out there. But both start way behind where Kennedy, a longtime statewide official with a big fundraising base and even bigger public profile, would have begun. While a Kennedy/Edwards race would have been a battle of equals, anyone left to challenge Edwards now faces the tough task of establishing the stature to take down a sitting governor.

Even more, though, I think its a recognition of reality, both Edwards and Kennedys.

The states general party preferences notwithstanding, Edwards enters election season on impressive footing, with decent approval ratings despite having raised taxes  with the GOP-majority Legislatures grudging help  to dig the state out of the deep hole that Bobby Jindal left him.

He hasnt done nearly everything hed hoped, but hes got a list of accomplishments, from expanding Medicaid and passing a prison reform package to welcoming some big new economic development projects. Hes drawn high marks for steady handling of various natural disasters, established a good working relationship with President Donald Trump, and as my colleague Mark Ballard reported last week, has won Republican as well as Democratic fans.

Edwards may have surprised everyone last time, when the under-radar state representative slayed Kennedy Senate predecessor and the states most powerful Republican, David Vitter. But unless a governor really screws things up, the job makes any candidate instantly formidable.

Latest supporters for Gov. Edwards' re-election? These prominent Louisiana GOP members While Republicans are angling to find an opponent to challenge the reelection of the only Democratic governor in the Deep South, some of the G

Kennedy might have been formidable too, but I have my doubts.

Yes, hes quick with a quip, a quality that has made him a star in stodgy Washington. But that can get old quickly, particularly when peoples real concerns, whether they be health care or TOPS scholarships, are at stake. Also, it surely would have rubbed some voters the wrong way that, just two years after asking them to send him to the Senate  a goal he twice sought before, dating back to 2004  Kennedy would be so ready to walk away.

Frankly, I never really bought that he was ready to walk, that he was willing to give up the easy Washington spotlight to get down into the trenches in Baton Rouge. I also never quite believed that things were likely to go his way if he had tried  that he, unlike Vitter, could have been the slayer this time.

Perhaps that's what this was actually all about. He'd likely never say so in public, after all this time hogging the will-he-or-won't-he spotlight, but could it be that Kennedy himself had the same doubts? Flash

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Panama City on Sunday for a state visit to Panama, the first of its kind since China and the Central American country established diplomatic relations in June 2017.





Upon their arrival at the airport, Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan were warmly received by Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela and his wife Lorena Castillo Garcia with a grand welcoming ceremony.





Accompanied by Varela, Xi reviewed the guard of honor.





To greet the honored Chinese guests, a group of local people performed dances with distinctive ethnic features. Children waved flowers and national flags of the two countries.





Xi said this is his first visit to Panama, and also the very first time a president of the People's Republic of China to visit the country in history.





On behalf of the Chinese people, he expressed sincere greetings and good wishes to the Panamanian people.





He said with the establishment of diplomatic relations one and a half years ago on the basis of the one-China principle, the two countries' interactions lasting more than 160 years have "turned over a new chapter."





China-Panama relations have started strong with fruitful results in cooperation in various fields, he noted.





Facts have proven that forging diplomatic relations fits the fundamental and long-term interests of the two peoples, he said, adding that there is great potential for future cooperation.





He voiced the expectation that his upcoming talks with Varela will draw blueprint for the development of bilateral relations in the long run, boost mutually beneficial cooperation, promote common development, and benefit the two countries and their people.





Xi arrived in Panama City after wrapping up a trip to Argentina, where he attended the 13th Group of 20 (G20) summit and paid a state visit.





Xi's four-nation trip has also brought him to Spain. He will visit Portugal after Panama.Comedy Central returning to Louisiana to film stand-up specials

Comedy Central to return to the Civic Theatre in 2019 to film stand-up specialsMariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas is You"

Donny Hathaway's "This Christmas"

Louis Armstrong's "Christmas in New Orleans"

Big Freedia's "Santa is a Gay Man"

Vote

View ResultsEarl Truvia, who transformed himself into a paralegal for defense attorneys after spending 27 years in the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola on a murder conviction that was overturned, pleaded guilty Friday to trying to smuggle drugs to inmates in the New Orleans jail.

Although Truvia could have faced years in prison, Criminal District Court Judge Karen Herman sentenced him to three years of probation. The sentence was not part of a deal with prosecutors.

Another defendant involved in the smuggling conspiracy detected by the Orleans Parish Sheriffs Office in March, Aleneisha Polite, received two years of probation after also pleading guilty.

Truvia, 60, spent decades in prison for a 1975 fatal shooting at the former Calliope public housing development before his second-degree murder conviction was overturned in 2002 and he was released. His lawyers said that officials had withheld key evidence before his trial.

He then became a familiar figure at the same Criminal District Court building where he was convicted, working first for defense lawyer John Fuller and more recently for Martin Regan.

Earl Truvia, who became a defense paralegal after an overturned murder conviction, charged in jail drug plot Orleans Parish prosecutors on Friday accused a defense attorney's paralegal  who had spent nearly three decades imprisoned on an ultimately o

Sheriffs Office investigators said that working on a tip, they managed to zero in on jailhouse phone calls involving a man accused of murder, David Hester, and another inmate named Taivon Aples. The calls suggested they were seeking to have drugs brought into the jail by Truvia.

Although members of the general public are not allowed to visit inmates in person, defense attorneys and their investigators can hold private meetings with prisoners to discuss their cases.

Deputies said they halted Truvia as he was checking into the jail March 30 and found a package of drugs under his jacket.

Regan said none of the inmates involved were his clients, and he fired Truvia after learning of the arrest.

Truvia was charged in August with conspiracy to smuggle marijuana, synthetic marijuana and the pharmaceuticals hydrocodone, tramadol, gabapentin and montelukast sodium into the jail.

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He also was charged with possession with intent to distribute hydrocodone, marijuana and synthetic marijuana, as well as illegal possession of gabapentin, tramadol and montelukast sodium.

Truvia pleaded guilty to all 13 counts.

Polite, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to introduce contraband into a parish jail; prosecutors dismissed five other counts of the same charge.

Prosecutors never brought a murder charge against Hester. He and Aples await trial on smuggling charges.

Assistant District Attorney David Pipes prosecuted the case. Truvia was represented by lawyer Dennis Moore, who did not respond to a request for comment.

Speaking in court, Pipes said his office had no objection to Herman imposing probation, according to nola.com.

However, in a later statement, District Attorney Leon Cannizzaro had a somewhat skeptical take on the sentence.

I can only hope that Judge Herman is proven correct in her decision to impose probation for these very serious offenses, he said.

It is hard enough to rehabilitate dangerous offenders without defense attorneys or their aides corrupting inmates further by trafficking illegal narcotics behind prison walls. This conduct should offend any officer of the court, and demonstrates why tight security protocols and real consequences are required."Facing questioning from homicide investigators, a teenager confessed that he stole a pastors wifes car and then fatally injured her by backing the vehicle over her in Gentilly last week, according to the New Orleans Police Department.

Police said Jontrell Robinson, 17, also claimed that an 18-year-old named Edwin Cottrell, an underage boy and an unidentified girl used a stolen minivan to get him to the scene of the killing and then went with him to discard the car of the slaying victim, Jeannot Plessy.

Widowed New Orleans pastor tells wife's killer that surrendering is the 'one way out' David Plessy's wife of 14 years was killed Tuesday night, run over by her own car after a stranger carjacked her in Gentilly.

Police booked Robinson on counts of second-degree murder and carjacking. Cottrell and the juvenile boy were booked on counts of being principals to second-degree murder and carjacking.

Robinson  who at 17 is old enough to be booked as an adult  and Cottrell were booked into the city's jail and the boy into the juvenile detention center. It did not appear that the girl mentioned by Robinson had been arrested as of Sunday.

At a bail hearing Sunday morning, Magistrate Commissioner Robert Blackburn set the bail for Robinson and Cottrell at $600,000 each, and they remained behind bars later Sunday.

The younger boys name wasnt released because of his age.

According to officials and her relatives, Plessy, 49, had arrived at her adult daughters home in the 2400 block of Prentiss Avenue about 7:45 p.m. Tuesday to pick up two of her preteen children when a young man yanked her out of her car and climbed into the drivers seat.

Plessys son-in-law heard screaming, came outside and tried to pull the attacker out of the car, court documents said. However, the carjacker accelerated in reverse, hitting Plessy and mortally wounding her, police said.

Investigators soon gathered surveillance camera video from multiple places that showed Plessys car being followed by a white Toyota Sienna van following the killing.

Police said the Sienna had been reported stolen minutes before Plessy was attacked, and investigators recovered the van abandoned at Metropolitan and Chickasaw streets in the Desire neighborhood.

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Investigators obtained a warrant to search the van and collected a DNA sample that they matched to Cottrell with the help of an FBI-managed database. It was unclear why Cottrells DNA was in the database.

Police said they tracked Cottrell to Annette and North Prieur streets in the 7th Ward on Saturday. He was in the company of Robinson and an underage boy.

All three were interrogated, and Robinson waived his right to remain silent, police said. Ultimately, they said, Robinson recounted how he, Cottrell, the boy and a girl had been riding in the stolen Sienna when Robinson ambushed Plessy.

After stealing Plessys car and running her over, Robinson said, he and the others took the vehicle to New Orleans East and left it in front of an abandoned home.

Detective Rayell Johnson obtained arrest warrants by Saturday evening and the three were jailed.

At their hearings in front of Blackburn, Robinson described himself as being in school. Cottrell said he worked security at a bar in the 500 block of Bourbon Street.

Both were wearing orange prisoners jumpsuits and shackles. They glanced at each other and shook their heads after hearing the bail amounts that Blackburn set, with one exhaling deeply at the conclusion of the hearing.

Plessy, who had just returned from a preaching tour in American Samoa, had been on a dinner date at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel with her husband, David Plessy, on the evening she was killed. David Plessy is a pastor at Crossover Christian Fellowship in New Orleans.

Following his wifes death, David Plessy told WWL-TV that Jeannots killing was an act of selfishness (and) desperation  that cost us a great deal.

One inclination would be to scream out for justice and scream out of anger, and perhaps that's a stage of my grief that's in front of me, Plessy said. But I know my wife has never failed to forgive anyone who has hurt her.New Orleans police have arrested a man accused of breaking into a home in Lake Vista and shooting a gun at a bedroom door over the weekend.

Daniel Christiana, 18, barged into a home in the 400 block of Lakeshore Parkway and demanded money about 1:15 a.m. Saturday, police said. Christiana allegedly hit one of the residents of the home on the head and then fired into a bedroom door where someone was hiding.

Police on Monday said they had arrested Christiana on counts of attempted first-degree murder, attempted armed robbery, aggravated second-degree battery, aggravated burglary and illegal discharge of a firearm.

In other matters recently handled by local authorities:

 A 34-year-old man was arrested Sunday afternoon on allegations that he shot another man in the jaw and neck outside a store in New Orleans East, police said.

Officers booked Edward Lunkins with attempted murder following the shooting reported about 1:50 p.m. in the 6700 block of Chef Menteur Highway. Lunkins and the victim had exchanged words when Lunkins pulled a pistol out of one of his front pockets and fired, police said.

Lunkins remained behind bars Monday in lieu of $250,000 bail in the shooting case. Authorities were also holding him on an unspecified warrant from Jefferson Parish.

 Joshua Simmons, 17, was booked Friday in connection with an armed robbery reported Nov. 26 in the 500 block of Park Boulevard in Algiers, New Orleans police said Monday.

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 Federal prosecutors in New Orleans on Monday said that Peggy Nagele, a 65-year-old woman from Thibodaux, had been charged last week with failing to declare nearly $730,000 stolen from an unidentified law firm.

Nagele allegedly stole the funds from 1996 to 2013 and then omitted mention of the money on a tax return, U.S. Attorney Peter Strassers office said. She could spend up to three years in prison as well as a maximum fine of $250,000 if eventually convicted in the case.

 New Orleans police investigated three robberies reported between Sunday night and early Monday. Another two robberies were attempted, one of which involved a gun, police said.

The attempted armed robbery was about 8:50 p.m. in the 6200 block of Cameron Boulevard in Gentilly. A 31-year-old man was exiting his car when another man who had a ski mask on and was apparently carrying a gun approached demanding cash, police said. The victim said he had no cash, and the robber fled in the white Kia Soul in which he had shown up.

The other attempted robbery was about 9:40 p.m. in the 3900 block of St. Claude Avenue, a 24-year-old woman had just grabbed her purse out of her car trunk when a man in a hooded sweatshirt pushed her against a wall, pulled her hair, knocked her on the ground and stole her purse, police said. Another man came up and started pushing the robber, who fled while the victim got off the ground and ran inside after collecting her purse, police said.

About 11:40 p.m. in the 2500 block of Elysian Fields Avenue in St. Roch, a 45-year-old man stopped his car at a red light when three people got into his car using his passenger doors, police said. The intruders asked for a ride, but the motorist refused, causing one of them to throw the driver out of the car while the intruders commandeered the vehicle. The victim, whose cash was also taken, got back into his car and begged for his vehicle back, but he was ordered out, police said.

About 3:35 a.m. at the corner of 8th and Magazine streets on the edge of the Irish Channel, a 33-year-old man was pepper-sprayed by two women who took his Rolex watch and fled, police said.

About 2:30 a.m. in the 2700 block of Dryades Street in Central City, a 65-year-old man was hit from behind with an unknown object and then punched in the face while he pockets were rifled through, police said. Two men stole the victims wallet, which had cash, and fled.

Anyone with information on any crimes can call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111. Tipsters may be eligible for cash rewards.A 28-year-old inmate at Orleans Parish Prison in custody for attempted murder has died, officials said Monday.

The inmate's name hasn't been released.

A statement from Orleans Parish Sheriff's Office said the man died at 11 a.m. Monday after being rushed to University Medical Center on Saturday. The man was found unresponsive in his cell just after lunch.

An investigation into his death is underway, the statement said. Neither a physical fight nor self-harm appear to be factors.Western Australia is home to more than 60 per cent of the nation's minerals and petroleum exploration.

ABS figures released on Monday revealed Australian mineral exploration expenditure rose 2.5 per cent to $582.1 million in the September 2018 quarter, with $360.6 million of that spent in WA.

There were 2,832,400 metres drilled for mineral exploration in Australia in the quarter, a six per cent rise.

Falls in drilling expenditure in New South Wales (21 per cent), Victoria (8.6 per cent) and 17 per cent in Tasmania were masked by jumps in Queensland (21 per cent), South Australia (7.6 per cent) and WA (three per cent).Firefighting aircraft will be able to respond more quickly to fires in the Canberra region thanks to a new, dedicated aerial firefighting station at Canberra Airport.

Previously NSW Rural Fire Service's Large Air Tankers fighting fires in the Canberra region would have to fly back to Richmond in Sydney's outer north-west to restock on firefighting chemicals.

Canberra Airport managing director Stephen Byron and ACT Emergency Services Agency commissioner Dominic Lane stand in front of the the fire retardant filing station at ACT's first fire bombing airbase. Credit:Dion Georgopoulos

ESA commissioner Dominic Lane was joined by NSW Rural Fire Service assistant commissioner Jason Heffernan, Canberra Airport chief executive Stephen Byron and ACT emergency services minister Mick Gentleman to launch the new base on Monday.

Mr Lane said the station wouldn't be on call year round, but the effects of climate change would prolong the bushfire season.Forensic officers have found "items of interest" just hours into a forensic excavation and search at the former home of a Blue Mountains woman who went missing more than 20 years ago.

Police started digging with shovels under the former home of Belinda Peisley on Monday morning and are planning to divide the large backyard into sections and start digging it up on Tuesday.

By Monday afternoon, a NSW Police spokeswoman was already able to confirm that "items of interest have been located".

The nature of the items is unknown, as is the number that have been found so far.Laidley Creek is one of many creeks that flow into the 3032-square-kilometre Lockyer Creek catchment, which provided 80 per cent of the sediment that flowed downstream in 2011 and 2013 floods. Loading The 2011 floods washed tens of thousands of fertilised soil downstream. It piled up soil five metres high on one corner of the farm against a hill. Originally run by John Emerick's family, it produces almost 30 per cent of south-east Queenslands vegetables. We spent a million dollars carting dirt back, Mr Neuendorf said.

We had dump trucks, excavators, loaders here for 26 weeks and they worked six days a week, he said. Loading We had holes here where you could park this ute in it and you wouldnt see it. Mr Neuendorf is the farm manager of the Mulgowie Farming Company, which rests beside Laidley Creek. On another section of the farm, huge swathes of topsoil were washed down Laidley Creek, which was gouged out to twice its width, he said.

Mulgowie Farm was  in friendly terms  the Port of Brisbane and Queensland Urban Utilities worst enemy after the 2011 and 2013 floods. Today, Mulgowie Farm Company is one of their best friends. Mulgowie Farm has become the poster-child project for river ecologists wanting to control the tens of thousands of tonnes of sediment  all containing nitrogen and phosphorus  downstream towards Brisbane. From 2013, shallow-rooted weeds and pest trees were removed and deep-rooted local wattles, casuarinas and eucalypts were planted.

The bank of Laidley Creek was remodelled and raised one metre and more than 4000 trees were planted along Laidley Creek. By November 2018, the trees are several metres high and, most importantly, the Laidley Creek bank survived Cyclone Debbie in April 2017. Laidley Creek was restructured and re-planted with deep-rooted eucalypts, wattles and casuarinas. Credit:Tony Moore The Port of Brisbane Authority, QUU and Healthy Land and Water have since 2013 contributed $2.4 million and thousands of hours to clean and replant 1.7 kilometres of the 2.4 kilometres along the creek. To us, thats a good sign, QUU spokeswoman Michelle Cull said.

The results to date By late 2018, the remodelled Mulgowie Farm was stopping 8800 tonnes of sediment each year. Loading When the full 2.4 kilometres is replanted, the Port of Brisbane and QUU scientists believe that 8800 tonnes will swell to 16,000 tonnes, including 11 tonnes of nitrogen and 22 tonnes of phosphorus getting into the Brisbane River. However, Brisbane River ecologists Paul Maxwell and Professor Bunn say Brisbane River has reached a tipping point and now hard policy decisions need to be made.

The success at Mulgowie Farm has more recently crystallised a new project to develop a 3D planning tool by the Australian Rivers Institute, where planners can wear a headset and see the impacts of their choice of revegetation projects on badly eroded stream banks and paddocks, and subsequently on river flow downstream. The Port of Brisbane Authority and developers, which need to reduce sediment, and QUU and Seqwater, which both need to reduce nitrogen, are now looking at alternatives, such as this Australian Rivers Institute 3D modelling tool to a new billion-dollar spend on sewerage plants. Badly cleared paddocks lead to sinkholes and erosion. Credit:Tony Moore One of the things you will be able to do is invest in green infrastructure and offset the nitrogen that you are putting in at a sewage treatment plant by planting a wetland upstream in the catchment instead, which captures the nitrogen and either converts it to nitrogen gas or turns it into trees, Professor Bunn said. You think of it like a carbon offset, but this is a nitrogen offset.

In effect, you set up a nitrogen market. Queensland University of Technology researchers are now developing headsets and tablets where planners can see computer generations of the future condition of the river including the nutrient and sediment flow, Professor Bunn said. Australian Rivers Institute director Professor Stuart Bunn at Griffith University. Credit:Tony Moore We will be able to take a past rain event and re-rain it on the new catchment and see what the impact on flooding will be under the chosen options, he said. The future results

Professor Bunn said it would create 4500 "green infrastructure" jobs, something that has greatly interested Queensland Treasury and several ministers. Those are jobs in landscaping, engineering, ecology and project management, something the Palaszczuk government is aware of. The Port of Brisbane argues it gets 190 times better results in reducing sediment from the river by investing in upstream projects such as the Mulgowie Farm, than in individual downstream developments when new businesses establish at the Port of Brisbane. The Mulgowie Farming Company, which grows 30 per cent of south-east Queensland's vegetables. Credit:Tony Moore Port of Brisbane environmental manager Craig Wilson said the result of one sediment-control exercise at Mulgowie Farm showed they could save 190 times the sediment erosion upstream as they could near the port for the same cost.

Loading When you compare that with our onsite measures at the Port of Brisbane  water-sensitive design, retention basins  for the same spend, we are probably saving 46 tonnes of sediment, he said. Port of Brisbane general manager David Keir said that 190-fold increase in sediment savings was why Port of Brisbane backed the new approach to look at alternatives. Rather than spending that money putting those measures in (at the port) we are taking that money and spending it up in the catchment, he said. The final  and quite decisive word  come from one of Australia's most important philanthropic bodies, the Ian Potter Foundation, which has invested $1 million in the futuristic Queensland planning tool developed by the Australian Rivers Institute.

Nitrogen is emerging as one of the key problems, but it is also a potential investment opportunity, Professor Bunn said. There is a growing concern that as the city grows we wont be able to keep a lid on the nitrogen coming out of our sewage treatment plants unless we spend more money. The research is 95 per cent completed and in December a pilot project developed by the Australian River Institute, the Port of Brisbane, Seqwater and Queensland Urban Utilities will be launched with a $1 million grant from the Ian Potter Foundation. Chief executive officer Craig Connelly said the Australian Rivers Institute project, on the back of research gathered at the Mulgowie Farm project, was where science could help the environment. Loading

I think if you have a really effective data visualisation tool that is being implemented at state and local government levels, and that is really engaging the people around our key catchment areas, then I think it becomes a tool which really informs a better spend by our government in the maintenance and protection of our waterways and also the infrastructure around that as well," Mr Connelly said. The Ian Potter Foundation said the 3D planning tools could be used to protect Moreton Bay and the river catchments flowing into the Great Barrier Reef. When I talk about the Great Barrier Reef, Im talking about the potential of this technique to be adopted by other councils," he said. So if you can spend money in this preventative way, by definition it should reduce the load of nitrogen and other chemicals that enters our waterways and ends up on the Great Barrier Reef  as well as Moreton Bay. For this particular project, it is relevant to Moreton Bay  and we think it is very important to Moreton Bay and the Moreton Bay area.Severe storms expected along the central Queensland coast on Monday would be a "mixed blessing" for firefighters, with heavy rain having the potential to dampen the flames, but strong winds could help the fires break containment lines.

After a Sunday scorcher, the end of the state-wide heatwave was in sight, according to the weather bureau, with temperatures across most of Queensland expected to drop to average for this time of year by Thursday.

A Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokeswoman said 109 bushfires continued to burn on Monday morning.

The most serious warning was a prepare-to-evacuate notice for residents of Captain Creek, 110 kilometres north of Bundaberg.The terms of reference to the royal commission are expected to probe deeply into Victoria Polices troubled history of managing informers, including Informer 3838s role in at least these two high-profile police corruption cases. Executed: Terence Hodson and his wife, Christine. The operation of the registered informant was managed by officers from Victoria Polices human source unit, which was disbanded in 2013 amid concerns about serious misconduct. But the overall investigations  code-named Taskforce Briars and Taskforce Petra  were overseen by a steering committee that included Mr Ashton, who was then deputy director of the Office of Police Integrity, current Victoria Police assistant commissioner Luke Cornelius and then-deputy commissioner Simon Overland. Mr Overland is now chief executive of the Whittlesea council. Sources said there was no way Mr Ashton would not have known about the use of the barrister given his senior position at the OPI and on the steering committee.

The veteran criminal barrister, whose name has been suppressed, had been informally cooperating with police since mid-2003, including conducting a series of interviews with Office of Police Integrity detectives. Loading She was officially enrolled in Victoria Polices human source program from 2005 until 2009, ultimately providing intelligence in over 5000 police reports that implicated several hundred criminals and clients. The police hierarchy saw her information as crucial to helping end the gangland war, and then, trying to expose police corruption. Taskforce Briar was launched after allegations emerged that two police officers had a hand in orchestrating the 2003 shooting death of Shane Chartres-Abbott, a male sex worker who specialised in bondage sado-masochistic sex.

Chartres-Abbott, nicknamed the Vampire Gigolo, was killed the day before he was due to stand trial for raping and biting off the tongue of a woman, amid claims he was threatening to expose corrupt relationships with police. Shane Chartres-Abbott. Credit:Andrew De La Rue Informer 3838 had been used to try to elicit information from one of the officers under investigation, David "Docket" Waters. Then Deputy Commissioner Overland asked Briars investigator Ron Iddles to take a formal statement from the informer, who was then living in Southeast Asia. But Detective Iddles refused to allow the statement to be formally signed, fearing the use of the informer was so unethical it could lead to a royal commission.

Informer 3838 was also deployed during Taskforce Petra, sent to covertly record a conversation with Detective Dale who police believed was involved in the murders of the Hodsons in 2004. Paul Dale Credit:Michael Clayton-Jones MCJ Terence Hodson had been acting as a police informant and had given information implicating Dale and another drug squad detective in the burglary of a drug house, charges that were dropped after the Hodson murders. The working theory had been that Mr Dale brokered the hit through drug kingpin Carl Williams. Mr Dale has repeatedly denied any involvement. The recording and testimony of Informer 3838 was an important part of the prosecution against Mr Dale when he was charged for the Hodson slayings.

Loading That case, in turn, collapsed spectacularly after the prison murder of Williams, who had also turned police informer. In February 2013, the source development unit that cultivated and managed informers was disbanded. That move came more than a year before the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission began investigating the decision to employ the defence barrister as an informant despite the clear conflict of interest. Murray Kellam, QC, who conducted the IBAC probe, found the handling of Informer 3838 "had the potential to have adversely affected the administration of justice in Victoria". He stopped short of finding any criminal behaviour had occurred.

But it was clear that a significant amount of potential damage had already been done. Carl Williams. Credit:Jason South The work of Informer 3838 had been deemed so essential to police that her simultaneous involvement as an informer and barrister in the same cases over nearly a half decade was not disclosed to the Director of Public Prosecutions. It is still unclear who at police command authorised that decision. In the four years since the scandal began to erupt in the courts, Victoria Police has also spent what is likely to be millions of dollars on legal actions attempting to suppress the release of information.The pharmacy where the alleged attempted robbery took place. Credit:Nine News Melbourne

An alleged robber may end up on the naughty list this Christmas after he became stuck in the chimney of a pharmacy north of Melbourne and was arrested.

Police were called to the pharmacy in Lancefield about 10.30pm on Monday when an alarm went off at the shop, but left shortly after.

They were then called to the same address a short time later after the man called emergency services when he became stuck in the chimney of the High Street pharmacy.A mother who broke her leg overseas and died following subsequent surgery in Australia was not examined properly during her initial consultation, a coroner has found.

Anna Bowditch, 34, was injured while holidaying in Hawaii on July 30, 2014, and had to prop up her bandaged limb on a tray table for the long-haul flight home.

Anna Bowditch with her daughter Natalia on their Hawaii trip.

The Point Crook woman died three weeks later in Melbourne's St Vincent's Private Hospital after suffering complications caused by deep vein thrombosis during surgery.

Coroner Audrey Jamieson could not find the death was preventable and said on Monday it was possible Ms Bowditch may have suffered "the same catastrophic effects" if she had not undergone the procedure.Of course that was prior to the IBAC report being handed down in which His Honour Justice Kellam made a number of findings, specifically that the manner in which Victoria Police handled me, as an informer/human source, was grossly negligent. Given that I was not invited to give evidence at the IBAC hearing and nor has any investigator ever spoken to me or offered any kind of explanation as to how not just the fact of my assistance, but the intricate details as well, have become a matter of public knowledge, I remain in a situation in which I accept that this nightmare is not simply going to go away. Nor am I able to take comfort in knowing that those police members who betrayed me have been identified, disciplined or prosecuted. As I think I mentioned to you (or at least to Detective Inspector Ian Campbell), my handlers were aware of intricate personal information about me and when I contemplate where such information may now be, I am disgusted all over again. As an aside, I consider myself very fortunate that the media appears to have forgotten that when the IBAC inquiry was first announced, their (the governments) own media release made it clear that the inquiry was not a general one about informers but rather a specific enquiry into the Lawyer X scandal. Whilst I am grateful that Victoria Police applied for and obtained an injunction preventing publication of the IBAC findings, it is clear that some of the content of His Honours report has been leaked to the media. I have accepted that I will have to continue to live with the prospect that more details may emerge publicly and, with the assistance of a clinical psychologist and a doctor, I will need to continue to manage the literally paralysing fears and uncertainty as well as heightened danger that impacts upon my existence. To enable you to try to comprehend the level of actual stress and anxiety I have to manage, I learned only this week that the Calabrian crime family have been informed that police were provided with a copy of the Bill of Lading pertaining to the importation of what remains the worlds largest ever single seizure of MDMA in 2007; they have been told by a journalist that their Bill of Lading was given to police by an informer and that IBAC was provided with the same document which was the subject of specific comment by His Honour Justice Kellam in his final report. It is an understatement to say that over twelve months after the public revelation of me being an informer/human source for Victoria Police, the confirmation that an extremely dangerous Italian organised crime family has learned this type of detail is nothing short of horrifying.

To make any kind of long-term decisions about my future is very difficult because of the continuing problems arising from the original leak to the media of the Lawyer X scandal. My treating psychologist has said on occasion that were it not for my children, she does not think I would still be alive; such is the level of my depression, anxiety and PTSD. I have struggled to cope with the fact that my reputation has been completely destroyed and my ability to obtain employment within the legal profession or even utilising my four degrees and experience is hopeless. A Google search of my name is quite literally sickening (to me) let alone googling Lawyer X scandal. I also struggle to deal with the fact that any of this has happened given all the assurances I was given (by Police) that my assistance would never be a matter of public knowledge. I have been forced to live day to day with a degree of hyper-vigilance and fear as to what will come out next and what impact it will have on my life. My anxiety and fears are compounded by the fact that but for some contact I maintain with a handful of former clients (now convicted offenders), neither I nor, more importantly, Victoria Police would be aware of just how dangerous the leaking remains. I have lost faith in assurances I have been given that the IBAC report has not been leaked because it is plainly obvious that the very offenders convicted as a consequence of my assistance are well aware of some of IBACs findings. In any event, the whole issue of how and by whom any information about my assistance was leaked to the media and became a matter of public knowledge, let alone the leaking of IBACs findings, remains a matter for your organisation to investigate or resolve. Obviously if I am forced into litigation with respect to Victoria Polices negligence in failing to keep confidential my assistance and failing in its duty to me as an informer, then the question of which members were involved and who is responsible would be a matter for a Supreme Court judge to consider. I sincerely hope that I do not have to pursue any of this by way of Supreme Court proceedings; the further damage and stress it would cause me aside, the embarrassment and problems it would create for Victoria Police would be significant. It has been conveyed to me that it would assist you if I was able to provide details of a Top 10 kind of list of operations/investigations in which I played a role. It would be unfair and a failure to appreciate the level of my diligence and commitment if that was the only measure by which you assessed my assistance. For that reason, knowing that there are literally thousands of hours of recorded conversations and debriefings as well as many thousands of documents proving without doubt, the immense assistance I provided over a number of years, I am also including some detail as to how and why I began to provide intelligence to Victoria Police and what my assistance included. As I hope you are aware, I helped because I was motivated by altruism rather than for any personal gain.

My actual assistance to Victoria Police began informally via Purana not long after the taskforce was initially formed in 2004. I met as he then was, Detective Sergeant Stuart Bateson on a number of occasions starting in early 2004 which of course was at the height of Melbournes gangland war and at a time when the refusal to assist police by anyone involved or with any knowledge was frustrating investigators. What led me to do that was my own frustration with the way in which certain criminals (Carl Williams) were seeking to control what suspects and witnesses could and could not do or say to Police via solicitors who were not in my view, acting in the best interests of their clients because of the undue influence and control of heavies such as Williams. Carl Williams and former wife Roberta at the height of the gangland war in 2004. Credit:Angela Wylie I provided Bateson with information that was of value to investigators in the months prior to suffering a stroke in late July 2004 and again afterwards. In the lead-up to my illness, I played a pivotal role in convincing [*Redacted] to roll over on Williams and others and withstanding undue pressure from the Williams crew (and Tony Mokbel) to try to get him to stay silent. I kept Bateson informed of all of this including solicitors perverting the course of justice and conspiring with criminals to try to ensure a number of gangland murders would remain unsolved or uncharged. As has been documented in the years that followed [*Redacted] deciding to help police, his actions (in becoming a witness for Police) created a precedent for others to follow and was the crack in the damn wall of silence that led to a flood. He laid the foundation for the prosecution of numerous murderers and others followed his example. During 2005 I became aware of high-level drug trafficking, money laundering, witness tampering, firearm offences and a variety of other serious criminal activity by virtue of the contact I had with certain clients and their crews and supporters. I also watched as Police either totally failed to investigate much of this offending or, failed in being able to obtain evidence to be able to arrest and charge offenders. By September 2005 certain events and circumstances led to me formally starting work as registered informer 3838 (again as an aside, journalists have used that detail as well as the names of my handlers when informing me of the information police sources have provided to them). My breaking point came when I was threatened by Tony Mokbel to ensure that a first-time offender who was operating pill presses and manufacturing tens of thousands of MDMA pills for him, kept his mouth shut and pleaded guilty after he was arrested by the then MDID.

Although Mokbel did not actually say that his underling was being financed and supplied by him, it became obvious to me when I was provided with a remand summary and later a brief of evidence by Police. This kind of scenario had happened numerous times in circumstances in which I was dealing with high-level drug syndicates, all of whom had individuals who were the targets of police investigations and many of which were involved, directly or indirectly with the gangland murders. Tony Mokbel after he was sentenced for 30 years on drug charges in the Melbourne Supreme Court. Credit:Jason South To try to encompass my actual value, reliability and work for Victoria Police in any summary is immensely difficult because from 16 September 2005, I spoke to my handlers on a daily basis, often 7 days a week for a couple of years. Again, the media has informed me, that there are approximately 5500 Information Reports generated from information I provided to Police. There was no topic, criminal, organised crime group or underworld crime that was off limits during the many debriefing sessions that occurred or during the years that followed until Overland decided to utilise me as a witness in 2009 when everything fell apart. I didnt appreciate that at the time I made the decision to become a witness for Victoria Police I had been put in a situation in which every assurance given to me was a lie and more importantly, that the investigators who took my statement were not made aware of the very real problems with respect to my safety and status. As you are no doubt aware, that led to me issuing civil proceedings against Overland after enduring 18 months of severe stress and uncertainty when no-one seemed to be capable of making any decision about what to do with regard to the issue of dealing with my informer role when I was called to give evidence. Those proceedings resolved at a mediation in late 2010 (again as an aside, the evening before that mediation my gynaecological oncologist had diagnosed me with the return of cancerous tissue that required surgery and foremost in my mind then and in the time that followed was my health). For completeness, as I am sure you are aware, those proceedings were public and the Writ did not include any reference to my role as an informer. (I do not want there to be any suggestion that I have previously been compensated in any way for my assistance to Police.) I subsequently spent a fortune getting my life and health back together and by 2014 when the nightmare of my informer status being made public started, I had managed to regain my health to the level of being able to conceive a daughter after 15 months of IVF treatment and I had also overcome great difficulties within the legal profession and been able to do some casual work as an employee solicitor.

Since the Lawyer X publicity started, it would be fair to say that my mental, emotional and physical health are in decline and I feel the impact of this nightmare almost every single day. In addition to my anxiety, fear, severe depression, PTSD and paranoia, my reputation is gone and I will ever be able to work as a lawyer again. The legal community in Victoria including its judiciary have formed a view that means I have now lost many friendships and relationships (professional and personal). Ironically, but for some limited communication with a few of the criminals that I helped to convict (and that communication comes with its own stress), I would be unaware of some of the dangerous and life-endangering detail that the media continues to reveal (from what I understand to be their police sources as well as leaks from the IBAC findings) and more importantly, so would Victoria Police. Former Victoria Police chief commissioner Simon Overland. Credit:Paul Rovere I make these comments because I would like you to try to put yourself in my shoes for a moment to try to comprehend my almost complete disillusionment with the very organisation which assured me as an informer, that what I did for Police and the detailed information I provided, would remain a highly protected secret and would never see the light of day. Now, but for my children and a handful of loyal supportive friends and family, each day is a nightmare as to what might come out next or indeed, the consequences for my safety and wellbeing. For the avoidance of any doubt, during the time I was working as an informer for Victoria Police, with the exception of a couple of token thank yous (including a pen) I, unlike any other informer, did not receive any financial assistance or support to enable me to work as an informer. In fact the contrary is true. I paid for all kinds of things that Police usually provide finance for such as incessant phone calls to criminals, entertaining (coffees not alcohol), countless trips to prison etc. In addition, the greatest impact was upon my practice because I had to invent reasons to excuse myself from accepting a multitude of briefs to appear for various Accused because I had a conflict of interest in so far as I had contributed directly or indirectly to those persons being arrested and charged in the first place.

One of the more insane costs borne by me was having to pay for the monthly spend of $190.00 for [name suppressed] after his arrest and remand. Those payments went on for months and months as well as $1100 for his computer. The fact was that in order to obtain the detail of his manufacturing including the location of labs, I had to spend considerable time with him so he perceived there to be more of a friendship that there was in reality. Once he was arrested and with my support and intervention, decided to assist police and make [*Redacted] statements and become a star prosecution witness, he was isolated and had almost no friends to rely upon for support. Your organisation will have records of the actual expenditure on my part where [name suppressed] is concerned because eventually Purana took over those payments (without [name suppressed] knowing obviously). Loading My point is essentially that I was not given any money at all as it seemed to be taken for granted that whatever I had to outlay to spend time with those, whom I informed on, would be borne by me because I was working and had an income. I took no issue with this at the time because Detective Inspector [*Redacted] assured me that this would all be taken into account whenever I finished and made application for a reward. On that note, you should be aware that I was advised by [*Redacted] himself when I spoke to him for the last time in early 2009, that his crew had finished what he referred to as an A to Z of the extent of my assistance to Police and that when any reward application was made that report was finalised and ready to be produced. Fortunately for me all those meetings were recorded by Victoria Police lest you be in any doubt as to the veracity of what I am saying I was told. There were a total of 386 people arrested and charged that I am specifically aware of based upon information I provided to Victoria Police but there are probably more because as you would know, I did not always know the value or use of some of the intelligence that I was providing. There was over $60 million in property and assets seized/restrained based upon my assistance and intelligence (a fact reported in The Age in an article about the results obtained by Purana in decimating the gangland criminals in 2009). My motivation in assisting Police was not for self-gain but was rather borne from the frustration of being aware of prolific large commercial drug trafficking, importations of massive quantities of drugs, murders, bashings, perverting the course of justice, huge money laundering and other serious offences all being committed without any serious inroads being made by Police. I maintain (despite what I understand from the media to be an incorrect ill-informed view taken by IBAC based upon who knows what version of events), that anything told to me or said in my presence about crimes being planned or committed cannot ever fall under the protection of legal professional privilege by a client. Most significantly, I did not approach the Police because I had committed (nor have I since) any crime for which I required some kind of get out of jail free card as is most often the reason people choose to assist Police.Former Melbourne lord mayor Robert Doyle is unlikely to appear due to ill health as a witness during a Supreme Court trial to decide whether a report on allegations he sexually harassed a woman should be released.

Mr Doyle is seeking to block the release of a Melbourne City Council investigation sparked by allegations he touched a woman on the upper thigh under a table and made offensive remarks at a Melbourne Health awards dinner in June 2016.

Robert Doyle's lawyer says he is too unwell to attend a Supreme Court civil trial. Credit:Jason South

In a writ filed in the Supreme Court, Mr Doyle says the council had no authority to commission an investigation into his behaviour at the event because he attended in his capacity as chair of Melbourne Health.

He did not appear in court on Monday and his lawyer, Kateena O'Gorman, said that he was unlikely to give evidence during the trial in February "given the state of his health".A Santa hat-clad thief who allegedly stole a wheelchair from a man using a toilet in Federation Square has been charged.

The alleged thief left his victim stranded in the toilet for an hour on Sunday until a passerby came to his aid, police said.

A man has been charged after a wheelchair was stolen and a man was left stranded in a toilet at Federation Square in Melbourne.

Police earlier said the man struck up a conversation with the 54-year-old victim at Flinders Street station about 11am.

The pair went to a toilet at Birrarung Marr, where the offender assisted the man into the cubicle before stealing his electric wheelchair.She has not been registered to practise law in Victoria since 2013. What are the consequences? A series of major criminal convictions could be quashed as a result of the scandal . The Director of Public Prosecutions has been notifying Ms Gobbo's clients that their lawyer was a police informer. Several high-profile criminals, including Mokbel, are considering appealing. In December 2018, the Andrews government ordered a royal commission into the controversy and the use of police informers.

As the royal commission began its preliminary work in February this year, it was discovered that the lawyer was in fact registered as a police informer in 1995, not 2005 as Victoria Police had previously said. That revelation forced the resignation of Malcolm Hyde, a former Victorian police deputy commissioner and former South Australian police commissioner, who was set to be one of two commissioners chairing the inquiry. Former Queensland Court of Appeal judge Margaret McMurdo, AC, is now acting as the sole commissioner. Whats wrong with a lawyer being a police informer? All lawyers have an obligation to act in the best interests of their clients and information given to a barrister by their client must be treated with strict confidentiality, according to Legal Services Commissioner Fiona McLeay.

Is it unusual for a lawyer to become a police informer? Loading The conduct of the lawyer has been described as "unprecedented" and so unique it "raises grave issues about its effect on the integrity of the criminal justice system", according to Supreme Court Justice Timothy Ginnane. How did it work in practice? As well as ratting on her clients to police, the lawyer helped facilitate police investigations by introducing criminals to undercover operatives and also encouraged her clients to plead guilty.

Victoria Police initially said officers began meeting informally with the lawyer in mid-2003 when she disclosed details about her clients and other criminals. Police had previously insisted the lawyer was registered as an informer from 2005 to 2009 and provided information that led to more than 380 arrests and convictions. But explosive information came to light on February 6, revealing the lawyer was registered as an informer 10 years before that. Have other lawyers acted as police informers? Yes. A court clerk, a legal secretary, a legal adviser, solicitors and a gunned-down Mafia lawyer are among seven people who have been referred to the Royal Commission into Management of Police Informants in addition to Informer 3838.

Between them, those referred to the commission would have had access to highly sensitive information including court records, subpoenaed documents, letters, bank records and contracts. The solicitors may have heard confessions from their clients, which they were bound to keep confidential, but may have disclosed. Why was Nicola Gobbo's name a secret for so long? The court had suppressed her name since 2014 to protect her personal safety, which police and her lawyers argue is in extreme danger from criminals and former clients. While she was known to police as Informer 3838, she was referred to in court documents by the letters EF. She has also been known as Lawyer X.

The Court of Appeal and the High Court lifted the suppression orders, allowing her name to be published on March 1, 2019. Who would have known about this? Regardless of the suppression orders, the identity of the lawyer has long been known in the legal fraternity, law enforcement community, the underworld and media. Rumours that she was helping police began to leak out in 2008 and her former clients began legal proceedings to find out what she had done in 2014, which is when the authorities moved to protect her identity through suppression orders. Late last year the Director of Public Prosecutions wrote to Ms Gobbo's former clients notifying them that their lawyer acted as a police informer. What will this mean for her former clients? Will they all be let out of jail?

Ms Gobbo's former clients are now being notified about her conduct by the Director of Public Prosecutions. Loading The process is still being worked out, but clients who believed they have been unfairly convicted will be able to apply for a judicial review of their case by a judge. If theres a finding in their favour, the Supreme Court will sit in judgment on whether their conviction should be quashed and a new trial ordered. What are people saying about it? Victoria Police were guilty of reprehensible conduct in knowingly encouraging [the lawyer] to do as she did  As a result, the prosecution of each convicted person was corrupted in a manner which debased fundamental premises of the criminal justice system. High Court of Australia

This is the most systematic abuse of the justice system in Australias history. Zarah Garde-Wilson, solicitor for convicted drug trafficker Rob Karam, whose conviction is being questioned. While these events took place many years ago, the Victorian public has a right to know that every part of the justice system acts fairly and lawfully at all times. Premier Daniel Andrews, when announcing the royal commission. "Melbourne was in the grip of what is now widely known as the gangland wars. Over the preceding 12 months, numerous people had been murdered, some in very public locations, and high-profile criminals were vying for control of drug operations that were inflicting serious harm on the Victorian community. It was, accordingly, a desperate and dangerous time." Police Commissioner Graham Ashton about the use of Informer 3838. How much could this cost the state? Victorian government agencies are estimated to have spent millions of dollars in legal bills since 2014.A mother accused of stabbing her son outside Fremantle bus station has cried in the dock as CCTV photographs of her delivering the fatal wound to his chest were shown in court.

Tanya Mynette Ugle, 37, is accused of murdering her 18-year-old son Jamal Ugle in November 2016, after the pair were kicked off a bus due to Ms Ugle yelling and being aggressive toward the female driver.

Ms Ugle is on trial in the Supreme Court of Western Australia Credit:Erin Jonasson

During the opening day of her trial by judge-alone in the Supreme Court of Western Australia on Monday, Justice Stephen Hall was told Jamal asked the bus driver, Please miss, dont put us off, before being shouted at by his mother to follow her off the bus.

The state alleges witnesses told police the woman continued yelling at Jamal after the bus had taken off, before pulling a concealed kitchen steak knife from her clothing and stabbing him in the left side of his chest.A Perth man has admitted torturing and killing two kangaroos in a group attack, and also torturing a chicken.

Police found disturbing vision of the animal cruelty, which involved one of the marsupials being burnt, shot with a firearm, spat on and kicked, and held and punched several times with knuckledusters.

The man pleaded guilty to animal cruelty charges. Credit:9 News Perth

The other kangaroo was stabbed more than 20 times and kicked in the head.

Luke Kevin Dempster, 26, pleaded guilty to all 12 charges against him in the Joondalup Magistrates Court on Monday and is expected to be sentenced later this week.Dunsborough locals have helped dent the aspirations of developers who want to build a 24-hour Puma Energy petrol station and convenience store in the middle of the town centre.

The WA Court of Appeal on Monday upheld an appeal against the controversial project on one of the last remaining vacant blocks along Dunn Bay Road, the popular tourist town's main strip where two petrol stations already sit at either end.

Locals have protested the Puma Energy station in the town centre for three years.

Opponents have argued the idyllic South West town's busy centre was already serviced by two petrol stations - a BP and recently-rebranded Coles Express - and a third would make the pedestrian-heavy area and surrounding tourist precinct unsafe, especially during peak holiday seasons.

The long-running development battle will now likely return to a new State Administrative Tribunal panel to reexamine after the Southern Joint Development Assessment Panel last month appealed a Supreme Court decision to allow the petrol station, on the basis it was approved by the SAT as a 'convenience store'.LGBTI students and teachers at religious schools are likely not to receive new protections against discrimination until the next school year, with Labor and the Coalition in a stalemate over a single component of the proposed legislation.

The parties are split over whether schools should have power to indirectly discriminate; the ability for schools to have their own internal rules that govern how LGBTI students act. The provision would, for example, allow religious schools to block a student from taking someone of the same sex to their school formal.

After negotiations broke down last month, Labor introduced a bill focussed only on student discrimination, dropping the debate on teachers' rights in an attempt to strike a deal before the end of the year.

Labor's plan was all but defeated in the Senate on Monday after Centre Alliance senators Rex Patrick and Stirling Griff backed the Coalition in a crucial vote.Despite attempts to legislate the right to use "he", "she" and other gendered words in the workplace, there have been no complaints to Anti-Discrimination Commission Queensland from people being forced to use non-gendered language at work.

Queensland crossbencher Robbie Katter has introduced a private member's bill to protect words like "him" and "her" and ensure workplaces did not need to install gender-neutral bathrooms.

A sticker designates a gender neutral bathroom at Nathan Hale high school in Seattle. Credit:ELAINE THOMPSON

Anti-Discrimination Commission Queensland principal lawyer Julie Ball said they had not received any complaints or inquiries from victims.

"We haven't had any inquiries about people being required in the workplace to use non-gendered language," she told a parliamentary committee considering the bill.Queensland women seeking a pregnancy termination will be shielded from protesters from Monday, as abortion law reform comes into effect.

From Monday, abortion will no longer be a crime and women will be able to have a termination on request up to 22 weeks, or after that gestation with consent from two doctors.

Protesters hold placards during a pro-life rally in Brisbane on September 1. Credit:AAP Image/ Glenn Hunt

Safe access zones of 150 metres around clinics will come into effect to shield women from harassment, while filming people entering or leaving clinics will be banned.

Earlier this year, footage emerged of a protester outside a Spring Hill clinic telling patients and supporters, "what that is is murder", and "we can help you".An emergency doctor who spearheaded campaigns against the legalisation of voluntary euthanasia in Victoria is in Perth to warn of the risks of assisted dying laws and focus opposition to the state government's plans to introduce it in WA.

Stephen Parnis, a former Victorian AMA president, said he would be meeting MPs and doctors over the next few days to encourage them to learn from the passage of Victoria's legislation.

Emergency medicine specialist Stephen Parnis is in Perth to speak to MPs and doctors about Victoria's experience passing voluntary assisted dying legislation. Credit:Jeffrey Chan

He said he would be speaking to opponents of assisted dying laws to outline how legislation was passed by Victoria's Parliament, but recently opposed by the Federal Parliament and in South Australia and New South Wales.

"Over the last 25 years there would have been something in the vicinity of 30 or 40 attempts to pass laws enabling assisted suicide, and I had a big part to play in the defeat of those laws in Canberra in August," Dr Parnis saidAbuja: Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari has denied claims that he has died and been replaced by a Sudanese impostor, breaking his silence on a rumour that has circulated on social media for months.

Buhari, who is running for re-election in February, spent five months in Britain last year being treated for an undisclosed illness. One theory widely aired on social media - and by some political opponents - was that he had been replaced by a lookalike from Sudan called Jubril.

Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari has denied social media remours that he is dead and has been replaced by a lookalike. Credit:Daily Trust

No evidence has been presented, but videos making the claim have still been viewed thousands of times on YouTube and Facebook.

"It's real me, I assure you. I will soon celebrate my 76th birthday and I will still go strong," Buhari told Nigerians in a town hall session in Poland, where he was attending the COP24 climate conference, when asked about Jubril.Jakarta: The high profile editor of a news website critical of controversial Philippines' president Rodrigo Duterte is facing five charges of tax fraud, but has vowed to keep holding the government to account.

Maria Ressa, a co-founder and executive editor of Rappler.com was released on bail on Monday after learning a warrant had been issued for her arrest and voluntarily surrendering to the court. She posted 60,000 pesos ($1500) bail, following several hours of questioning, and returned to work.

Ressa had just returned to the Philippines from the United States, where she was awarded the Committee to Protect Journalists Gwen Ifill press freedom award, and the International Centre for Journalists' Knight international journalism award.

Philippines journalist Maria Ressa has been released on bail facing five charges of tax fraud. Credit:planetphilippines.com

Rappler began life as a startup in 2012 with just a handful of journalists but has rapidly grown to have 100 journalists and a strong presence in the country's media landscape - and it has become a frequent target for criticism by President Duterte, who has accused it of being owned by foreigners, criticised it in his 2017 State of the Union Address, and even alleged it was funded by the CIA.Katowice, Poland: Famed naturalist Sir David Attenborough says human civilisation may collapse unless the world takes action to curb climate change.

The British TV presenter of nature documentaries told leaders gathered for a UN climate summit Monday that "right now, we are facing a man-made disaster of global scale, our greatest threat in thousands of years."

Sir David Attenborough.

Attenborough urged the delegates meeting in Katowice, Poland, until December 14 to make progress on efforts to implement the 2015 Paris accord fighting climate change.

The 92-year-old added that "if we don't take action, the collapse of our civilisations and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizon."For all its admiration for debate and veneration of philosophy, France is a land of unchanged, unchallenged verities.

Otherwise serious French people reliably claim that rubbing creams into your thighs can induce weight loss during sleep. They will contend that dried sausage could not cause cancer any more than unpasteurised cheese could provoke stomach disease. French tax and regulatory schemes will customarily seem essentially impenetrable. Some consumers will still defend the andouillette, a means of introducing an animal's bowel to your own. Many French friends will assert that all will be well in your life provided you have properly arranged love, by which they mean sex. In any given week, you can come across long-life milk, arguments for "more Europe", a new book solving the world's problems by Jacques Attali and a perceived crisis in some sub-branch or other of philosophy. To adapt a hallowed French expression, plus ca ne change pas, plus c'est la meme chose.

Emmanuel Macron: France's gaudiest president? Credit:Philippe Wojazer

So it goes in France this northern autumn. As with the other verities, the government is yet again producing plans  on poverty, energy, bicycles and health. That government comprises a young president who won against the odds, backed by the party he formed. Weirdly, though, the French political system seems differently but as sharply disjointed as our own. We have not seen a former prime miniser (Manuel Valls) abandon his wife, seat, party, country, even his car (in favour of a motor bike) to run for mayor in another country. The loser in our last national election, unlike Marine le Pen, is not contesting a court order to take psychiatric tests. We do not have a president distracted by public mockery of a tacky shop set up on the Champs Elysees to sell presidential trinkets. Imagine the boundless scorn of Charles de Gaulle or Francois Mitterrand at sets of red, white and blue glasses or a T-shirt emblazoned "First Lady". Our political leader stands accused of many flaws, but none as abstruse as the allegations against Macron of lonely narcissism, technological arrogance or the heinous sin of telling the unemployed they merely needed to cross the road to find a job.

The second-most senior minister in our government has not resigned, after first asking to postpone his formal desertion for eight months, having evidently detected a lack of humility in the President. In counterpoint, the third-ranked minister resigned during a radio broadcast and has exiled himself to a cliffside retreat in Brittany. Meanwhile, a 27-year-old who says his job at the Elysee included picking diplomatic gifts and arranging the President's private outings has been pushed to explain why he assaulted protesters and carried a gun.Paris: France's presidential Elysee palace has confirmed that Emmanuel Macron's two-day foreign trip to Serbia this week is being postponed as a result of the weekend violence in Paris.

Macron was due to meet with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Wednesday. After a phone conversation on Monday, they agreed to reschedule the trip in the near future.

More than 130 people were injured in the French capital and 412 have been arrested over the weekend during France's worst urban riot in years, with dozens of cars torched.

Anti-government protesters gained new allies as paramedics and students joined ongoing rallies while the prime minister met with political rivals in a bid to ease the anger following riots.Schiff said on the American ABC's This Week that emails between Stone and an associate, Jerome Corsi, are "inconsistent" with the testimony that Stone gave to the committee last year.

The comments from Adam Schiff come days after US President Donald Trump's former lawyer Michael Cohen pleaded guilty to lying to Congress , raising questions about whether the Mueller would pursue similar charges against others eyed in the probe.

Washington: The top Democrat on the US House intelligence committee says the testimony of former Trump campaign adviser Roger Stone should be provided to Russia probe Special Counsel Robert Mueller "for consideration of whether perjury charges are warranted."

Schiff, who is set to chair the intelligence committee when Democrats take control of the House next year, suggested that others may also potentially be in legal jeopardy for providing false testimony to the congressional committee. There's generally a high legal threshold to prove such a charge, but he said "there are some people that I'm confident have met and exceeded that bar."

Mueller's investigators are trying to determine whether Corsi and Stone had advance knowledge of WikiLeaks' plans to release hacked material damaging to Hillary Clinton's presidential effort. US intelligence agencies have said Russia was the source of that hacked material.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. The website published the leaked emails. Credit:AP

But when asked by the same program on Sunday, local time, whether it was true that he had never spoken with Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, Stone said: "That is absolutely correct.

"I turned over one direct message to the House Intelligence Committee between the flack for WikiLeaks and I, in which he essentially brushed me off. That immediately leaked to Atlantic magazine, who then edited the context and published it. No, I had no contact with Assange."Even though she probably wasn't expecting to break the internet, Ariana most likely knew her fans would be wanting more after releasing the music video so has already released a behind the scenes look.

Ariana released the nearly 10 minute long video over the weekend which showed how she recreated Bring It On and Legally Blonde as well as the iconic Ella Woods scene that sadly had to be cut from the final music video.

The video is only part one of three which Ariana has promised will be coming soon so make sure you're ready for those.

Watch the full behind the scenes video below:Newshub's Dan Satherley says next time you're asked if you'd like fries with that, don't be surprised if one of the options is 'six'.

That's the maximum number anyone should eat in a single sitting, a Harvard nutrition professor has claimed.

Eric Rimm told the New York Times potatoes are "starch bombs" made only worse by removing their nutrient-filled skin and frying them in oil.

He's urging people to give up the fries and opt for a salad instead. But if it's fries you want, Dr Rimm says moderation is key.

"There aren't a lot of people who are sending back three-quarters of an order of French fries," Dr Rimm told the paper. "I think it would be nice if your meal came with a side salad and six French fries."

SOURCE: Newshub.After Cohens Plea Deal, Theres Still No Evidence of Russian Collusion

Commentary

In a surprise announcement, calculated to have maximum media impact just before President Donald Trump departed for Argentina to attend the annual G-20 summit, special counsel Robert Mueller and his team accepted a guilty plea in court from former Trump Organization lawyer Michael Cohen.

On Nov. 29, the media was suddenly alerted that Cohen was in a New York courtroom entering a plea of guilty to perjury charges. In his plea agreement, Cohen admitted he lied in his congressional testimony under oath when asked about details surrounding the proposed construction of a Trump Tower in Moscow. Specifically, Cohen admitted he misled Congress on the duration of the proposed deal and how much Trump himself was involved in it.

As evidence of Cohens perjury, Mueller submitted a series of emails between Cohen and Felix Sater, in which the two men discuss a real estate deal that never came to fruition. However, in the course of discussing the deal, a discussion that began in 2015, Sater began making overtures to Cohen once Trump announced his presidential run.

Sater boasted of deep connections to Vladimir Putin and other top Russian officials, which he said he could leverage to help the Trump campaign win the 2016 election.

The New York Times broke the story of the Cohen/Sater emails more than a year ago, with a story, titled Trump Associate Boasted That Moscow Business Deal Will Get Donald Elected, on Aug. 28, 2017.

The Times story included a screenshot of an email that Sater sent to Cohen on Nov. 3, 2015, in which Sater said: Michael I arranged for Ivanka to sit in Putins [sic] private chair at his desk and office in the Kremlin. I will get Putin on this program and we will get Donald elected. We both know no one else knows how to pull this off without stupidity or greed getting in the way. I know how to play it and we will get this done. Buddy our boy can become President of the USA and we can engineer it. I will get all of Putins [sic] team to buy in on this.

After much of the mainstream media spent all of Nov. 29 crowing about the supposed smoking gun of Cohens perjury plea and the renewed interest in his email exchange with Sater, by the afternoon of Nov. 30, CNNs Jake Tapper was one of the first to begin carefully examining the actual evidence and asking hard questions.

In an interview on The Lead, Tapper surprised Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.) by asking where the evidence of Russian collusion is.

What Happened?

Heres what actually transpired in that courtroom, stripped of all the Democratic National Committee (DNC) media complex spin: Cohen admitted to Mueller he didnt tell the truth in his congressional testimony about how long the deal was discussed and how much Trump knew about it and  thats it.

As Tapper notes, this is a mere perjury charge. No evidence has been found that proves that: 1. any deal was struck to actually provide Russian government support/aid to the Trump campaign, or 2. that any Russian activity influenced the outcome of the 2016 election.

All thats been revealed is that a long-known FBI informant, while talking to Cohen about a Trump Tower in Moscow deal that never reached the actionable stage, also made an offer of Russian help for the Trump campaign. So the question immediately becomes: Was any action ever taken in response to this offer?

Or, like the Trump Tower in Moscow deal, did Saters offer of Russian help go nowhere? Wheres the evidence that any real collusion action by Russian government officials to aid the Trump campaign ever actually occurred?

This is what Tapper is asking in the aforementioned interview, and you can see that Nadler is caught flat-footed, stuttering and stumbling trying to answer the question.

Were a year and a half into the Mueller special counsel investigation. Hes charged numerous people with process perjury and one person with bank/tax fraud and illegal lobbying.

Mueller still hasnt charged any American with engaging in criminal activity for acting with Russians to influence the 2016 election. DNC media hacks, disguised as impartial mainstream media reporters, can try to spin that all they want, but its not the smoking gun they keep claiming it is.

The dying DNC media complexs narrative is that all these people reaching out to Trump campaign personnel with offers of help from the Russian government were genuine: 1. Natalia Veselnitskaya and Rinat Akhmetshin at a Trump Tower meeting; 2. Prof. Joseph Mifsud in London; and now, 3. Felix Sater.

In fact, none of these people were working for the Russian government or acting on behalf of Russian government officials. Veselnitskaya and Akhmetshin were operatives working for Fusion GPS when they sought to entrap Donald Trump Jr. at that July 2016 meeting at Trump Tower. They got into the room with Donald Trump Jr., Paul Manafort, and Jared Kushner under false pretenses by claiming to have information damaging to Hillary Clinton, but they were lying about that. They didnt have what they claimed they had, and no information changed hands.

Its been established that Glenn Simpson of Fusion GPS met with Veselnitskaya both just before and then immediately after the Trump Tower meeting.

Mifsud is likely an FBI informant, and as Sater himself said in an interview on MSNBC with Chris Hayes, he has had a long and productive relationship with the FBI as an operative.

Oconus Lures

During their Crossfire Hurricane counterintelligence operation, seeking to entrap the Trump campaign accepting Russian help in the election, Peter Strzok and Lisa Page exchanged text messages about the FBIs use of oconus luresinformants sent to make fake overtures to designated targets.

The mainstream media wants to keep pretending that didnt happen, that the FBI wasnt sending operatives to Trump campaign personnel making bogus offers. It wants to keep pretending each offer of Russian aid was 100 percent genuine and was being made by real Russian agents.

But Crossfire Hurricane did happen. And there was more than one of these oconus lures being prepped and sent to the Trump campaign to make these fake offers of Russian government officials all eager to help Trump win the election.

And as the intrepid John Solomon of The Hill revealed in his latest explosive report, Congress has been digging into payments made to these FBI informants who were being sent to try to entrap people.

Solomon writes: At least two important bodies in Congressthe House Intelligence and Senate Judiciary committeesdemanded to be secretly briefed on payments to undercovers. Theyve been pretty tight-lipped since, except to express concerns that the public would be alarmed by what was divulged.

So no matter what the mainstream media pontificates, dismissing it as a wild, over-the-top conspiracy theory, its a completely legitimate question to ask if Sater was one of the oconus lures sent to the Trump campaign to make one of these fake Russian offers.

And it must be hammered home: Fake offers or genuine offers, theres still no evidence that Cohen or any Trump campaign person ever accepted such an offer and that any kind of action was ever taken by the Russian government on behalf of the Trump campaign. Or that any such hypothetical action influenced Trumps 2016 election victory.

Brian Cates is a political pundit and writer based in South Texas and the author of Nobody Asked For My Opinion  But Here It Is Anyway! He can be reached on Twitter @drawandstrike.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.A tow truck holds a car that was pulled from on an off-ramp that collapsed during a morning earthquake in Anchorage, Alaska, on Nov. 30, 2018. (Mike Dinneen/AP)

Alaska Putting Together Pieces After Massive Earthquake

ANCHORAGE, AlaskaThe supply chain of food and other goods delivered to the Port of Anchorage from the Lower 48 has not been disrupted by the powerful earthquake that caused widespread damage to roads in the Anchorage area.

The ships are coming in on schedule, the supply lines are at this point uninterrupted, Anchorage Mayor Ethan Berkowitz said on Dec. 2, at a news conference.

The magnitude 7.0 earthquake rattled the states largest city early Friday morning swaying buildings and fraying nerves. There were no reports of deaths, serious injuries or structural damage to buildings.

Roads, however, took the brunt of the damage, especially the scenic Glenn Highway, the closest thing Alaska has to an interstate and links the states largest city to suburban communities to the north.

Traffic has been snarled since the quake. Delays came as drivers were diverted around road damage on temporary detours or the highway was reduced to one lane while crews try to reconstruct the roadway after the temblor caused sinkholes and buckled pavement.

Employees who live north of Anchorage are being encouraged to take Monday off or work from home if possible to reduce traffic. Gov. Bill Walker, who leaves office at noon Monday, gave state workers in the Anchorage area the day off to help reduce the number of cars on the highway. Schools have been closed until Dec. 10, which should also reduce traffic.

Walker said he would not be traveling to the rural village of Noorvik for the swearing in of Gov.-elect Mike Dunleavy on Monday but instead would remain in Anchorage to keep working on recovery efforts.

Roads arent the only transportation worry in Alaska.

About 90 percent of all the goods sold in Alaska are delivered to the Port of Anchorage, where officials have completed a preliminary damage assessment.

Everything looked good, Municipal Manager Bill Falsey said. There was some structural concerns with some of the trestles. We have got some things on a watch list but nothing that should impede operations.

Two major cargo companies operate at the port. One was offloading barges as normal on Sunday, and the other company is scheduled to offload barges Monday after successfully testing their crane system.

Jet fuel was also being unloaded at another terminal Sunday.

Were estimating we have on hand now automotive gasoline supplies that will be good for at least three weeks, and that the next shipment comes in on Dec. 7, he said. Were not expecting any disruptions to those supply chains.

Officials on Saturday encouraged Alaskans not to make a run on grocery stores, saying there was no reason to hoard food.

However, at least one grocery store Sunday morning had no milk and little to no bread, bottled water or bananas.

Berkowitz said the stories hes heard, particularly from grocery stores, in the immediate aftermath of the earthquake was of cooperation and sharing.

Even when people were initially concerned, people who might have been reaching for the last item, looked over and saw someone else and said, Yes, we are sharing this with you,' he said.

He also touted Alaskans longstanding tradition to stock up for long winters.

I would encourage people, once the ships get in, once things settle back down, make sure you have the emergency preparations, the emergency kits that you should have, he said.

Schools will be closed for the week so damage assessments can be conducted on about 4,000 classrooms in 86 schools and four other facilities, comprising 8 million square feet, to make sure they are safe for staff and students, Superintendent Dr. Deena Bishop said Sunday.

By Mark ThiessenCarla Stefaniak, 36, went missing last week ad before that, she sent an ominous text message to her sister-in-law. She was staying at the Airbnb. (Carla Stefaniak/Facebook)

Body Found in Search for Missing Florida Woman Carla Stefaniak: Costa Rica Officials

A body that has not yet been identified was discovered near an Airbnb in Costa Rica where Florida woman disappeared last week.

Carla Stefaniak, 36, went missing last week, and before that, she sent an ominous text message to her sister-in-law. She was staying at an Airbnb.

Officials in Costa Rica said the body was found partially submerged in plastic bags. It was found by cadaver dogs in the back of the Airbnb, NBC News reported on Dec. 3.

Costa Ricas Judicial Investigation Agency also told ABC Action News in Florida that the body was buried in a mountainous area located on the Airbnb property, about 200 feet from where she was staying.

A police spokeswoman, Marisel Rodriguez, did not elaborate on whether the body is of a male or female.

Other details about the finding are not clear.

Relatives said that she checked in for a flight back to Florida on Nov. 28, but she never made it to her plane.

Her brother, Mario Caicedo, said he thinks she was abducted or kidnapped. Her family has not heard from her since Nov. 28.

Another brother, Carlos Caicedo, told WFLA that hes in Costa Rica, saying he visited the Airbnb and elaborated on what guards told him. She went there the night before and left at 5 a.m., said Caicedo. Everything is gone. She left with everything on hand.

None of us really believe this 5 a.m. story because it really doesnt make sense, her sister-in-law April Burton told Fox13. We know she was abducted. Theres no reason for her not to contact anyone.

Burton told CBS News that a rainstorm apparently knocked out the power at the Airbnb. She added that Its pretty sketchy here, Burton said.

After she dropped her sister-in-law off at the airport, Stefaniak reportedly paid an Uber driver to take her around San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica. Then, she called a friend, telling them she was going to ask a guard at her Airbnb to buy her a bottle of water. That was the last time her friends or family heard from her, the Fox affiliate report said.

It was her birthday, and it makes me feel really bad. I do feel guilty because I left early, Burton told Fox13. She saw Stefaniak last at the airport.

Crime on the Rise in Costa Rica

The U.S. State Department in September 2018 sent out a travel advisory for people visiting Costa Rica. Exercise normal precautions in Costa Rica. Some areas have increased risk, the agency says.

People in the Pavas and Hospital neighborhoods [in] San Jose should exercise caution due to crime, the alert says. Violent crime, such as armed robbery and assault, is common. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, says the State Department. It adds: Criminal assault and homicides have been reported in these areas. Gang activity, such as territorial disputes and narcotics trafficking, has been reported in Pavas in the vicinity of the U.S. Embassy.

The Costa Rica Star publication in September said the country is experiencing a mini crime wave, which will affect the tourist trade, including hotels, restaurants, tours, taxis, and more.Chinese President Xi Jinping talks with the press after the G20 Leaders Summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on Dec. 2, 2018. (Ricardo Ceppi/Getty Images)

Chinas Xi Promises to Crack Down on Chinese-Made Fentanyl

It remains to be seen whether Beijing will follow through

WASHINGTONAfter meeting with President Donald Trump in Argentina on Dec. 1, Chinese leader Xi Jinping said he intends to list fentanyl as a controlled substance, meaning that people selling fentanyl to the United States will be subject to Chinas maximum penalty under the law, according to a statement from the White House.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine, according to the CDC. It is used legally in the United States to treat severe pain and for people who are immune to weaker painkillers.

Its potency has made it increasingly popular in street drugs, such as heroin, and even street-sold pharmaceuticals like Percocet that can catch users by surprise, often with deadly consequences.

In 2016, the latest year for which the CDC has final data, 19,413 people died of synthetic drug-related overdoses. This is up from 9,580 in 2015an increase of more than 100 percent. The CDC says the spike was likely driven by illicitly manufactured fentanyl.

Experts agree that the majority of the clandestine fentanyl that is coming into the United States is made in China, which is possibly why some of its street names include China Girl and China White.

What [Xi] will be doing to fentanyl could be a game changer for the United States, Trump told reporters after the meeting on Dec. 1.

China has already taken action to schedule as controlled substances some fentanyl-related drugs such as carfentanil, and some of the chemicals used to manufacture fentanyl, such as NPP and 4-ANPP. But so far, it has resisted classifying all fentanyl-related drugs as such, which Chinese drug manufacturers have used to their advantage.

By tweaking the chemical structure of the drug, they have made knockoffs known in the law enforcement world as fentanyl analogues, that have a similar effect, but technically arent illegal.

As these analogues pop up, and usually at the behest of the United States or other recipient countries, China undertakes a lengthy process to ascertain whether they should be classified as scheduled drugs. By the time they are, Chinese drug makers have created more analogues that Beijing then has to review and label.

China  has been increasingly cooperative with the United States in this area. Their actions are steps in the right direction, but more can be done, Paul Knierim, deputy chief of operations at the U.S. Office of Global Enforcement, told a House Foreign Affairs subcommittee in September.

When pressed further about whether cooperation was happening at the highest levels of government, Knierim only stressed that the cooperation from his counterparts in China was encouraging.

In August, Trump complained in a tweet about poisonous synthetic heroin fentanyl being shipped to the United States through the U.S. Postal Service.

In response, Yu Haibin, a senior official with Chinas National Narcotics Control Commission, said his comments were irresponsible and that the United States had no proof that the majority of fentanyl was coming from China.

That same month, the United States released a 43-count indictment of two Chinese nationals for operating a conspiracy that manufactured and shipped fentanyl analogues and 250 other drugs to at least 25 countries and 37 states.

Yu told the state-run Global Times that the pair were not being indicted according to the Chinese law and evidence. The Justice Department said in its announcement of the charges they had evaded Chinese law by manufacturing analogues.

A report by the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, which was created by Congress to report on the national security implications of U.S.-China trade, said part of the problem is that the regulatory environment around drugs in China is very weak.

Chinas inefficient chemical and pharmaceutical regulatory environment is due in part to misaligned incentive structures for local governments, which are encouraged to prioritize economic growth and development objectives above all else, wrote Sean OConnor, a policy analyst with the commission and the author of the report.

It also notes a lack of political will to crack down on an epidemic that so far hasnt created a problem in China.

In 2016, U.S. negotiators thought they had secured an agreement from Chinese regulators that they would prevent substances illegal by U.S. law from being exported to the United States.

A Chinese readout from the same discussion, however, did not include making the commitment, and Beijing never implemented the policy, the report says.

Jeffrey Higgins, a former supervisory special agent at the DEA, told the commission that he felt China was merely seeking to create the appearance of cooperating with U.S. officials, while not enacting any reforms to its chemical and pharmaceutical industries that may slow the countrys economic growth.World leaders pose for a picture during the opening day of the Argentina G-20 Leaders' Summit 2018 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on Nov. 30, 2018. U.S. President Donald Trump is pictured in the front row (sixth from L) with Chinese leader Xi Jinping (ninth from L). (Daniel Jayo/Getty Images)

Chinese State Medias Coverage of XiTrump Meeting at G-20 Omits Details on Big Issues

Reporting falls short about trade issues, fails to elaborate on agreed fentanyl controls

Chinese state media left out some conspicuous details in their coverage of the meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The G-20 negotiations resulted in a ceasefire. Upon the conclusion of the meeting on Dec. 1, the White House press secretary sent out a statement with details about the outcome, chief among them Trumps decision to halt the escalation of the tariff rate on Chinese imports worth $200 billion to 25 percent from 10 percent come Jan. 1.

Meanwhile, China has agreed to purchase more U.S. goods to reduce the trade surplus it currently has with the United Statesincluding U.S. agricultural products.

The two leaders agreed on a truce, provided that within the next 90 days, China and the United States will negotiate on structural changes with respect to forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and cyber theft, services, and agriculture. But if at the end of the 90-day period, the two parties cant reach an agreement, the scheduled tariff increase will come into effect.

Chinese state media painted a different picture of the negotiations. State-run media Xinhua published its article on the XiTrump meeting past 1 p.m. on Dec. 2 in Beijing time, opening with descriptions of how the two leaders underwent talks in an honest, friendly atmosphere.

The report mentions that the United States agreed to stop adding new tariffs, but doesnt explain the 90-day deadline, nor the agreement to negotiate on issues of intellectual property theft and trade barriers. The two countries economic teams will intensify consultations, advancing towards eliminating all added tariffs, for a mutually beneficial concrete agreement, the report read.

Xinhua also made no mention of Chinas promises to buy more U.S. goods, and a detail in the White House statement regarding U.S. chipmaker Qualcomms failed bid to buy NXP Semiconductor after Chinese regulators failed to approve the deal.

President Xi also stated that he is open to approving the previously unapproved Qualcomm-NXP deal should it again be presented to him, the White House statement read. Qualcomm had announced it would cancel its bid to buy the Netherlands-based company back in July, after Chinas antitrust regulator made no decision upon the deadlines passing.

Qualcomm needed approval from China because the country accounted for nearly two-thirds of the companys revenue last year, according to Reuters.

The only details that matched up in both the White House statement and Xinhuas report were Xis decision to more strictly control fentanyl in China, and the two leaders commitment to denuclearization in North Korea.

It should be noted that Xinhuas article in Chinese doesnt elaborate on what control measures on fentanyl China will implement, whereas the White House statement said Xi has decided to designate fentanyl as a controlled substance, meaning that people selling Fentanyl to the United States will be subject to Chinas maximum penalty under the law.

These obvious omissions paint China in a more positive standing in the trade negotiations, seeming as if the United States had conceded with halting the tariffs progression.

Fentanyl

China is the country of origin for most of the illicit fentanyl found in the United States. The drug, about 100 times more powerful than morphine, is at the center of the current opioid crisis, with almost 30,000 overdose deaths involving fentanyl and fentanyl analogsout of a total of more than 72,000 drug overdose deaths in 2017, according to the U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse.

The U.S. administration found that manufacturers in China were able to exploit loopholes in the U.S. shipment system to smuggle fentanyl into the country, and has long sought cooperation from Chinese authorities to crack down on fentanyl and other synthetic drug manufacturers in China.

However, Chinese drug companieseven publicly listed firmshave long operated without repercussions.

Chinese authorities have also previously denied that China was the chief producer of fentanyl.

For example, during a daily press briefing with Chinas foreign ministry on Nov. 27, the spokesperson answered a reporters question about Chinas efforts to curb fentanyl thusly: The U.S. side has denounced China for being the major source of fentanyl in the United States, but has never provided China with accurate data and effective evidence [of such].

In an August 2018 article by the state-run newspaper Global Times, Yu Haibin, the head of the China National Narcotics Control Commission, reiterated that position and was quoted as saying, I dont know where the basis for this claim is coming from. China absolutely cannot accept this.

Upon news of the G-20 negotiations, Chinese media continued to deny responsibility.

A Dec. 2 news article by the state-run China Securities Journal tried to explain what fentanyl is, describing it as itself a good drug for reducing pain after surgery, or used as an anesthetic.

Similarly, a Dec. 2 article by Chinese financial newspaper, National Business Daily cited the Global Times article from August to refute the United States criticisms of unbridled production of fentanyl in China.

Chinese drug companies also jumped to their own defense to claim to Chinese media that they dont export fentanyl to the United States. Humanwell Hi-tech, a pharmaceutical company based in Wuhan City, made that point to Chinese newspaper Economic Observer, while Nhwa Pharmaceutical Co. based in coastal Jiangsu Province, offered a similar statement to National Business Daily on Dec. 2.

Frank Fang contributed to this report.Danske Charges Raise Questions on Potential Sanctions Breaches

As Danske Bank A/S is investigated for money laundering, a key question remains whether it was used by anyone on U.S. sanctions lists.

Denmarks biggest bank has so far said theres no evidence sanctions were breached. But its also acknowledged that the risk cant be ruled out. Last week, Danish police filed the first criminal charges against Danske, zeroing in on its failure to screen clients, including those defined as politically exposed.

Elliott Stein, a senior analyst in litigation at Bloomberg Intelligence in New York, says the wording of the charge sheet against Danske raises questions about potential sanctions breaches, which U.S. prosecutors have historically viewed particularly severely.

The banks failure to screen against lists of politically exposed persons, which the bank conceded in its Sept. 2018 report, and Danish prosecutors listed in their Nov. 28 charges, raises the risk that the bank conducted transactions involving sanctioned individuals or entities, Stein said in an emailed note. As of Sept. 19, however, Danske said it had not uncovered any evidence of any violations of sanctions.

A Chairmans Comments

Danske Chairman Ole Andersen said in September that at this point, the screening against the sanctioned list has not uncovered any evidence of any violations of the sanctions, but the investigation is still ongoing, according to the transcript of an analyst call. Andersen has since been ousted by Danskes biggest shareholder, and will step down in connection with a shareholder meeting on Dec. 7.

Denmark is the first country to have filed criminal charges against Danske, but investors are most worried about what the U.S. Justice Department might uncover and what sort of fines may follow. The Danish financial regulator has ordered Danske to hold an extra $1.5 billion in capital to serve as a buffer against possible penalties.

Even if Danske wasnt actively involved in laundering money, its failure to live up to basic compliance requirements may make it culpable, according to lawyers familiar with the subject.

If you ignore requirements to know your customer, then you risk some very serious consequences for your business, said Jesper Hjetting, a director at Lundgrens, who specializes in corporate law. Hjetting declined to comment on the Danske case and spoke in general terms.

Stupid Faith

You can act in good faith, or bad faith, or even stupid faith, if you turn a blind eye to something you should clearly have identified, Hjetting said by phone. The upshot is that negligence to track whats going on can also leave a firm culpable, he said.

Danske is at the center of a $230 billion scandal in which money from the former Soviet Union was allegedly funneled into four Russian-based banks, from where it was sent to three Danske units. The main one was a branch in Estonia. But whistle-blower testimony also points to Lithuania and Denmark. From there, the money was sent to three correspondent banks, after which it was injected into the global financial system. This is alleged to have continued into 2015.

The scandal has cost the jobs of numerous top-level Danske employees, including the CEO and the chairman. Several staff members who were based in Estonia have been reported to the police.

Failing to comply with any part of anti-money laundering legislation sets a firm up for punishment, Hjetting said. Failing beyond that just adds to the severity.

US Law

Stein at Bloomberg Intelligence says the U.S. Money Laundering Control Act requires showing intent to conceal the source, ownership or control of funds. Danske will likely argue that its failures were unintentional lapses, he said.

One problem for the bank, though, will be that intent can likely be shown with circumstantial evidence or willful blindness, Stein said. A large volume of unusual transactions could probably be used as circumstantial evidence that people at the bank knew what was going on but turned a blind eye. U.S. authorities are pretty good at digging up evidence of intent and establishing jurisdiction.

Danske has said it will of course cooperate with prosecutors and make itself, and the information it has, available in relation to the ongoing investigation. That apparent willingness to cooperate is likely to help the bank avoid severe penalties, according to Stein. He estimates potential U.S. fines wont exceed $1 billion.

By Peter Levring & Christian Wienberg

From BloombergDemocratic Congresswoman Says She Helped Migrants Enter United States

A Democratic congresswoman said she helped some migrants into the United States over the weekend.

The pronouncement came as some of the migrant caravan, which is overwhelmingly composed of fighting age males, was moved out of Tijuana to a city further away from the border.

Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) said she helped five migrants enter the United States.

She said two were so-called unaccompanied minorsor people who say they are under the age of 18 and arent traveling with either of their parents, one was a young man with a serious medical condition, and two were a mother and her 9-year-old child.

Its not clear how exactly she got the migrants into the country but she said that they were initially denied entry.

I was able to intervene and ensure that they could simply present themselves for asylum in the United States, she said on Twitter.

Around 90 percent of migrants who try to claim asylum in the United States are ultimately rejected because they often dont meet the requirements for asylum. A skyrocketing number of claims has led to a huge backlog in federal courts as migrants are instructed by coyotes (smugglers), lawyers, and others to apply even if they obviously dont meet the criteria.

Jayapal said she was assisted by NGO Al Otro Lado (To the other side), which has been going into migrant camps to give advice, according to The Epoch Times.

The organizations litigation director, Erika Pinheiro, told migrants in Tijuana on Nov. 19, that even migrants who have been deported and committed crimes could be eligible for withholding of removal, or a work permit.

Jayapal said an interpreter with Human Rights First was also involved.

Jayapal flew to the border on Nov. 30 to join the caravan, she told Politico. She claimed without evidence that President Donald Trump created the crisis at the border, indicating that the entire caravan should be let into the country.

Federal officials have said there are hundreds of convicted criminals in the caravan, including gang members. One admitted MS-13 gang member was captured in California after illegally crossing the border. Dozens of migrants who have spoken to news agencies have admitted to being deported and some have admitted to committing crimes that prompted the deportations, including driving under the influence and attempted murder.

The migrant caravans were offered asylum in Mexico but the majority of the migrants refused to accept the offer and continued traveling until they reached the U.S. border.

Jayapal is part of a radical group of Democrats who have gained more power and influence within the party in recent years. She has called for the abolishment of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.

Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) was among those criticizing Jayapals actions, stating on Twitter: Pramila Jayapal is a very well-studied person; pleasant to be around. But her joining the caravan as some sort of congressional coyote is nuts!

Not all Democrats were opposed to the actions of the Trump administration at the border. Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) said he supported the U.S. Customs and Border Protections use of tear gas to disperse the mob of migrants who charged the border on Nov. 25.

If you start throwing rocks, and I saw them breaking through thereif you got 100 people rushing, whatever number, and you had less Border Patrol CBP officers  you are going to use tear gas. You are going to defend yourselfespecially if theyre throwing rocks, Cuellar told the conservative Daily Caller website.

I do stand with Border Patrol on their response because Ive been in constant contact with them for years. Families should not have been there, especially when they saw what was happening. They should have brought their kids away from that.

From NTD NewsAn apparent murder-suicide left five people dead in Tennessee on Oct. 15, 2018. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Detroit Mother Gets Away From Would-Be Mugger, Shoots Him Dead

A Detroit mother was able to escape from a would-be mugger and grab a gun from her home before shooting him inside the house.

A grandmother, mother, and daughter were preparing to leave their house on Mark Twain Street on Sunday morning, Dec. 2, for church when an unknown man approached and tried grabbing one of them.

They fled inside their house but the suspect barged in.

The mother, 55, grabbed a gun and fired twice at the suspect, hitting him at least once in the chest.

Medics who arrived shortly after the shots were fired declared the suspect dead.

The other women were 75 and 29, according to Fox 2. The suspect was in his 30s.

The Detroit Police Department said the shooting was self-defense and the woman will not be charged.

The decision not to charge the woman was correct, retired Michigan State Police gun expert David Balash told WXYZ.

If its an unknown person and they follow you inside, I suspect they would be legitimately in fear for their well being and safety, said Balash. They have every right to defend themselves.

A neighbor who was also preparing to go to church said that she heard the shots.

I was about to go to church when I heard the shots they put up the crime tape and I went to church, Lashundra Craig told Fox 2.

She said that if a robber entered her home, she would also shoot him. She said its a normal occurrence in the neighborhood, noting her house got broken into just weeks ago in broad daylight.

Watch your back, like Im on the corner I got trees and woods they could be waiting anywhere for you, she said.

Police say the shooting was in self-defense and no arrests will be made. https://t.co/493C4sETOC  WXYZ Detroit (@wxyzdetroit) December 2, 2018

Self-Defense in Missouri

The shooting came just days after a mother in Missouri said she shot her son in self-defense.

The shooting in Kiln on Friday morning happened because the woman thought her son was going to kill her, Criminal Investigation Division Commander Glenn Grannan told WLOX.

The mother and son had an argument that escalated with the son brandishing a knife and threatening his mother. Deputies had been to the house several times for domestic disputes.

Seemed like today he flipped out and threatened to kill her with a knife, Grannan said, adding when the father got involved she broke free. She feared for her life and her husbands life and went to the bedroom where she acquired a pistol. Were satisfied it was self-defense.

Matthew Taylor Boudan, 21, the son, had recently been released from prison in Louisiana and was becoming increasingly abusive to his parents, Grannan told The Sun Herald. Another relative corroborated Boudans parents reports of increasing abuse.

His parents had a restraining order against him but it became invalid when he went to live with them. They said he had nowhere else to go after he was released from prison.

His mother had just asked him to keep the refrigerator closed because he kept leaving it open, Grannan said. He started damaging things in the kitchen and threatened to kill his mother.

From NTD NewsDuane Dog the Bounty Hunter Chapman Says His Wife Has Gone Back to Colorado Against Doctors Orders: Report

Duane Dog the Bounty Hunter Chapman and his wife, Beth Chapman, said they have gone back to their home in Coloradodays after she was rushed to a Los Angeles hospital for emergency surgery.

They say the cancer follows the path of least resistance, so it goes downward. Half of her lung was full of water, Duane Chapman told Us Magazine on Dec. 2. But shes much more comfortable now [that] she can breathe, but she just wanted to come back to Colorado, she loves it here.

The report claimed she left the Los Angeles hospital against the wishes of her doctor.

They told us they didnt want her to leave the hospital, but she was adamant, she just wanted to be home, Chapman explained. We have the test results coming in tomorrow.

"Another bend in the road, yet not the end of the road,#faith, #love #stayhumblepray." Beth Chapman    Duane "Dog" Chapman     

He said Beth was in a wheelchair to the plane and then a wheelchair on the other side before they were brought home.

He added: Beth slept for almost an entire day, and she was more comfortable, then she got up and she was trying to do things around the house, trying to do laundry and wash the dishes, I said to her, Ive done all that, dont worry.

Chapman said shell get the results of a biopsy soon. Yes, Im nervous about the test results tomorrow, he told the publication. Its like you kinda know whats gonna happen, but youre hoping and praying its not.

In September 2017, Beth revealed she had stage II throat cancer. After months of a nagging cough, a routine checkup resulted in a diagnosis of stage 2 throat cancer, she wrote at the time. I have what is referred to as a T2 Tumor in my throat that is blocking my breathing. My doctors are suggesting immediate treatment and surgery before the disease progresses.

According to reports in late November 2018, her cancer appears to have returned.

She had a lump in her throat twice the size of last time, and they performed an emergency surgery yesterday, Dog told Us magazine after this weeks procedure. They cut a hole in her throat so she can breathe; she can still talk.  [Shes] doing the best she can and remains incredibly strong.

Previously, the two have credited their faith for her beating cancer the first time.

Faith is probably the number one thing in our lives, no matter what were faced with.  Through this cancer episode, we had to drum up as much faith as we could. And the Bible talks about having faith as small as a mustard seed. And thats not much.  And I thank God that we had at least that much faith to get her through that, Duane said at the time.

Duane, earlier this year, said he would help hunt down a fugitive who made threats against President Donald Trump.

He was hired by a friend of the then-fugitive, Shawn Christy. I have a very hot lead, Chapman told a local news outlet time. I have delivered messages to him. My goal is not to shoot him but get him to surrender. Christy was later captured by U.S. Marshalls.Former FBI Director James Comey talks backstage before a panel discussion about his book "A Higher Loyalty" in Berlin, Germany, on June 19, 2018. Comey is in Berlin at the invitation of the American Academy in Berlin. (Carsten Koall/Getty Images)

Ex-FBI Director Comey Strikes Deal to Testify, Drops Legal Challenge

Former FBI Director James Comey agreed to provide a voluntary interview to House lawmakers on Dec. 7, according to his attorney.

Attorney David Kelley told The Epoch Times in an email that his client agreed to withdraw the court motion to quash the subpoena in exchange for a set of conditions, including an agreement that Comeys interview will be voluntary rather than compelled.

The House Judiciary Committee will provide Comey with a transcript of his testimony within 24 hours and the ex-FBI head will be free to share the transcript and discuss his testimony, said Kelley. According to court documents (pdf) filed by the House of Representatives, the Judiciary Committee had offered these conditions to Comey before he challenged the subpoena in court.

Kelley also noted that an FBI representative will be present to advise concerning the disclosure of FBI information as long as the interview remains voluntary.

Comey withdrew his motion to quash the subpoena on Dec. 2. A federal judge at the district court in Washington dismissed the motion and ordered the case closed shortly after.

The House Judiciary committee sent subpoenas to Comey and former Attorney General Loretta Lynch on Nov. 21. The next day, Comey wrote on Twitter that he plans to resist the subpoena. His attorneys filed a motion with a federal court on Nov. 29.

Since October last year, Republicans from the Judiciary and Oversight and Government Reform committees have been investigating actions taken by the FBI and Justice Department (DOJ) in 2016. The lawmakers are specifically probing the conduct of government officials in relation to the investigations of Hillary Clinton and the Trump campaign.

The testimonies by Comey and Lynch represent the final stage of the joint committee investigation. According to court documents, the committee will issue a final report on its findings in a few short weeks.

Republicans will lose their majority on the committeeand with it the power to conduct investigationson Jan. 1. Democrats are expected to terminate Republican probes and launch investigations of their own.

According to the court documents, none of the 16 witnesses interviewed by the joint committees to date have resisted a closed-door deposition. The committees have spoken to some of the key players in the Clinton and Russia investigations, including former FBI agent Peter Strzok and former FBI lawyer Lisa Page. Strzok played a lead role in both probes.

Special counsel Robert Mueller, who is heading the probe into the Russia investigation, removed Strzok from his team after reviewing text messages between Strzok and Page which revealed the pairs intense bias against Trump and in favor of Clinton. Strzok and Page, who were having an affair at the time, discussed an insurance policy in the unlikely event Trump won the presidency in 2016.

Part of the House investigation focused on the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) warrant that the FBI secured to wiretap former Trump campaign volunteer Carter Page. FBI officials used a now-discredited dossier of opposition research on Trump as the core of a secret-court application to secure the warrant.

A separate investigation by the House Intelligence Committee found that the opposition research dossier was funded by the Hillary Clinton Campaign and the Democratic National Committee. Christopher Steele, a former British spy, used second- and third-hand sources with ties to the Kremlin to compile the document.

The FBI and DOJ included the dossier in the FISA application knowing that Steele had breached bureau policies by talking to the media and was opposed to Trump becoming president. The applicants also failed to disclose that Clinton paid for the dossier. Comey signed the initial application and two renewals.

Trump fired Comey in May last year, triggering a series of developments that led to Muellers appointment. Comey admitted to leaking his FBI memos in hopes that a special counsel would be installed. At least one of the memos contained classified information, according to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa).

A group of 11 Republican lawmakers referred Comey for criminal investigation in April. In a letter (pdf) sent to the heads of the FBI and DOJ, they accuse Comey of leaking classified information and investigative misconduct.

Comey has said that he wants to testify publicly instead of behind closed doors. In prior testimony to Congress, Comey used the public setting as a reason to not answer nearly 100 questions, according to Rep. Trey Gowdy(R-S.C.).Carla Stefaniak, of Miami, was celebrating her 36th birthday, Fox13 reported. Her sister-in-law, April Burton, left the country last week, which is one day earlier than she was slated to return. (Carla Stefaniak/Facebook)

Florida Woman Carla Stefaniak Vanishes in Costa Rica While Celebrating Birthday

A family is looking for answers after a Florida woman disappeared while celebrating her birthday in Costa Ricahours before she was slated to head back to the United States.

Carla Stefaniak, of Miami, was celebrating her 36th birthday, Fox13 reported. Her sister-in-law, April Burton, left the country last week, which is one day earlier than she was slated to return.

It was her birthday, and it makes me feel really bad. I do feel guilty because I left early, Burton told Fox13. She saw Stefaniak last at the airport.

After she dropped her sister-in-law off, Stefaniak reportedly paid an Uber driver to take her around San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica. Then, she called a friend, telling them she was going to ask a guard at her Airbnb to buy her a bottle of water. That was the last time her friends or family heard from her, the Fox affiliate report said.

The owner of the Airbnb said she was last seen getting into an Uber car with her luggage on Nov. 28. at around 5 a.m. local time. The Uber records dont list that transaction, however, the report said.

None of us really believe this 5 a.m. story because it really doesnt make sense, Burton told the outlet. We know she was abducted. Theres no reason for her not to contact anyone.

Burton told CBS News that a rainstorm apparently knocked out the power at the Airbnb. She continued with, Its pretty sketchy here, Burton said.

Stefaniaks brother, Mario Caicedio, went to Costa Rica to search for the woman. We are all destroyed, we are trying to be strong, he told the Fox station.

Officials in Costa Rica said she may have been abducted because she was checked into her flight, but she never made it to the plane, NBC Miami reported.

He said hes not coming back until he finds her, Burton said of Caicedio, CBS reported. She was just such a happy go lucky person. Im just afraid she was just too trusting with someone there.

Her family set up a Facebook page to help find the woman.

Words cannot express how shocking and devastating this is to her family and her friends. If anyone can help us with this situation, it will be highly appreciated, Burton wrote on Facebook.

Crime in Costa Rica

The U.S. State Department in September 2018 sent out a travel advisory for people visiting Costa Rica. Exercise normal precautions in Costa Rica. Some areas have increased risk, the agency says.

People in the Pavas and Hospital neighborhoods [in] San Jose should exercise caution due to crime, the alert says. Violent crime, such as armed robbery and assault, is common. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, says the State Department. It adds: Criminal assault and homicides have been reported in these areas. Gang activity, such as territorial disputes and narcotics trafficking, has been reported in Pavas in the vicinity of the U.S. Embassy.

The Costa Rica Star publication in September said the country is experiencing a mini crime wave, which will affect the tourist trade, including hotels, restaurants, tours, taxis, and more.Saad al-Kaabi, chief executive of Qatar Petroleum, gestures as he speaks to reporters in Doha, Qatar, on July 4, 2017. (Naseem Zeitoon/Reuters)

Gas-Focused Qatar to Exit OPEC in Swipe at Saudi Influence

DOHAQatar said it will quit OPEC to focus on gas in a swipe at Saudi Arabia, the de facto leader of the oil exporting group which is trying to show unity in tackling an oil price slide.

Doha, one of OPECs smallest oil producers but the worlds biggest liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter, is embroiled in a row with OPEC members Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

It said the surprise decision to exit OPEC, which has 15 members including Qatar, in January was not driven by politics and it did not name Saudi Arabia, but Minister of State for Energy Affairs Saad al-Kaabi said:

We are not saying we are going to get out of the oil business but it is controlled by an organization managed by a country, al-Kaabi said.

Qatar would attend an OPEC meeting scheduled for Dec. 6 & 7 in Vienna and would abide by its commitments, he said, adding that Doha would focus on its gas potential.

This was because it was not practical to put efforts and resources and time in an organization that we are a very small player in and I dont have a say in what happens, he added.

OPEC members Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, and fellow Arab states Bahrain and Egypt, have imposed a political and economic boycott on Qatar since June 2017, accusing it of supporting terrorism, which Doha denies.

Qatars former prime minister, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani, said on Twitter that OPEC is only used for purposes that hurt our national interests.

The United Arab Emirates said Dohas decision was a reflection of its declining influence.

The political aspect of Qatars decision to quit OPEC is an admission of the decline of its role and influence in light of its political isolation, Anwar Gargash, UAE minister of state for foreign affairs, said on Twitter.

OPECs loss of a long-standing member undermines a bid to show a united front before a meeting that is expected to back a supply cut to shore up prices. Benchmark Brent is trading at around $62 a barrel, down from more than $86 in October.

They are not a big producer, but have played a big part in (OPECs) history, one OPEC source said.

It highlights the growing dominance over policymaking in the oil market of Saudi Arabia, Russia, and the United States, the worlds top three oil producers which together account for more than a third of global output.

Riyadh and Moscow have been increasingly deciding output policies together, under pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump on OPEC to bring down prices.

It could signal a historic turning point of the organization towards Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, said Algerias former energy minister and OPEC chairman, Chakib Khelil, commenting on Qatars move.

Unilateral Decisions

He said Dohas exit would have a psychological impact because of the row with Riyadh and could prove an example to be followed by other members in the wake of unilateral decisions of Saudi Arabia in the recent past.

Qatar, which Al-Kaabi said had been a member of OPEC for 57 years, has oil output of just 600,000 barrels per day (bpd), compared with Saudi Arabias 11 million bpd.

But Doha is an influential player in the global LNG market with annual production of 77 million tonnes per year, based on its huge reserves in the Gulf.

Al-Kaabi, who is heading Qatars OPEC delegation, said the decision was part of a long-term strategy and the countrys plans to develop its gas industry and increase LNG output to 110 million tonnes by 2024.

I assure you this purely was a decision on whats right for Qatar long term. Its a strategy decision, Al-Kaabi said.

The exit is the latest example of Qatar charting a course away from its Gulf neighbors since the rift began last year. It comes before an annual summit of Gulf Arab states expected to grapple with the roughly 18-month standoff.

Once close partners with Saudi Arabia and the UAE on trade and security, Qatar has struck scores of new trade deals with countries further afield while investing heavily to scale up local food production and ramp up military power.

There is a sentiment in Qatar that Saudi Arabias dominance in the region and the regions many institutions has been counterproductive to Qatar, said Andreas Krieg, a political risk analyst at Kings College London. It is about Qatar breaking free as an independent market and state from external interference.

Oil surged about 5 percent on Dec. 3 after the United States and China agreed to a 90-day truce in their trade war, but prices remain well off Octobers peak.

Asked if Qatars withdrawal would complicate OPECs decision on output this week, a non-Gulf OPEC source said: Not really, even if its a regrettable and sad decision.

Al-Kaabi said state oil company Qatar Petroleum planned to raise its production capability from 4.8 million barrels of oil equivalent per day to 6.5 million barrels in the next decade.

Doha also plans to build the largest ethane cracker in the Middle East and it would still look to expand its oil investments abroad, Al-Kaabi added.

By Eric KnechtGerman Minister of Foreign Affairs Heiko Maas at the European headquarters of the United Nations in Geneva on Nov. 28, 2018. (Salvatore Di Nolfi/Pool via Reuters)

Germany to Continue Support for Russian Gas Link Amid Ukraine Tensions

BERLINGermany wont withdraw its political support for the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline with Russia, its foreign minister said Dec. 3, as some lawmakers suggested curtailing the project to punish Moscow for its seizure of Ukrainian ships and their crew.

Russia is resisting international calls to release three Ukrainian ships seized last month in the Kerch Strait, which controls access to the Sea of Azov near the Crimea region, which Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014.

Moscow accuses the 24 sailors of illegally entering Russian waters by trying to pass through the strait. Kiev says the sailors did nothing wrong, and its ships have the right to pass through the strait to reach Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov.

Several German lawmakers have linked the standoff to support for Nord Stream 2, an $11 billion pipeline to Germany from Russia under the Baltic Sea.

But Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, a member of the Social Democratsthe junior partners in Chancellor Angela Merkels coalitiontold reporters the pipeline is a commercial project that would continue even if German firms pull out.

Remaining part of the project gives Germany political influence, including over Russian energy policy toward Ukraine, Maas said.

It would still be built, but there would not be anyone advocating for alternative gas transit through Ukraine. That is why we consider it important to remain engaged politically.

Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, a leading candidate to replace Chancellor Angela Merkel at the helm of her Christian Democrat party, said Dec. 2 that one option might be to reduce the amount of gas that will flow through the pipeline.

Jurgen Hardt, foreign-policy spokesman for Merkels conservatives in parliament, also raised questions about Nord Stream 2 and said further sanctions against Russia would have to be considered unless diplomatic efforts bore fruit.

When diplomatic efforts to ease tensions fail, we cannot ignore the question of whether it is responsible to further increase the dependence of Germany and the European Union on Russian gas, he told Reuters.

Not Totally Unconditional

The pipeline project aims to double capacity of the existing Nord Stream 1 pipeline from next year, bypassing traditional routes through Ukraine.

Germany has insisted Ukraine should continue to play a roleand receive revenuesfor allowing gas shipments across its territory. Merkel secured a pledge from Russian President Vladimir Putin on the issue in August, Maas said.

Russias Gazprom is the sole shareholder in Nord Stream 2, shouldering half of the construction cost. Its Western partners are Germanys Uniper and Wintershall, Anglo-Dutch group Royal Dutch Shell, Frances Engie, and Austrias OMV.

The United States, also keen to export gas to Europe, argues that the pipeline will harm Ukraines economic interests and leave Germany dependent on Russia for decades to come.

After meeting with Putin at the G-20 summit, Merkel called on Russia to release the Ukrainian sailors and allow shipping access through the Kerch Strait to the Sea of Azov. But she didnt endorse further sanctions against Moscow.

Kramp-Karrenbauer, a close Merkel ally, said Nov. 30 the European Union and the United States should consider banning from their ports Russian ships originating from the Sea of Azov in response to the incident.

Another contender for the CDU leadership job, Health Minister Jens Spahn, said its important to set new limits.

I think its an important signal to Vladimir Putin and Russia that Nord Stream 2 isnt totally unconditional, and it cant be that the project continues whatever he does and how far things are escalated, he said.

By Andrea Shalal & Sabine SieboldA man posing as a Good Samaritan helped a drunken woman get into a taxi cab following a Brooklyn party before offering to escort the womans friend homeonly to sexually assault her, according to the New York City Police Department. (NYPD - DCPI)

Good Samaritan Offers to Help Woman Get Home, Then Rapes Her: NYPD

A man posing as a Good Samaritan helped a drunken woman get into a taxi cab following a Brooklyn party, before offering to escort the womans friend homeonly to later rape her, according to the New York City Police Department.

The 20-year-old victim was trying to get her drunken friend home safely from a home in Brownsville at around 2:20 a.m. on Dec. 1, when the faux Good Samaritan approached them, officials told the New York Post.

The man hailed a taxi for them, helped the drunken woman into the cab, and then offered to walk the other home, officials said.

He then took her into Betsy Head Park and raped her, officials said. He also stole her iPhone and a wallet after she let out a scream.

The woman flagged down a driver, who then called 911. The woman was taken to a nearby hospital via an ambulance.

The suspect is believed to be in his 30s or 40s, has a ponytail, facial hair, and a black jacket with orange lining, the Post reported.

Activist Tony Herbert told the Post that liberal organizations that bail out crime suspects are partly to blame for worsening crime. Herbert said he was referring to the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights foundations mass bailout of arrested people. Its not clear whether the Good Samaritan assault suspect was one of them.

They are fighting to get these individuals out of jail, but they are not vetting them, he was quoted by the paper as saying.

This is a serious concern for us because the most vulnerable in our community, nine times out of 10, are our elders, our young people and particularly, our women, Herbert said. We want the individual who committed this crime  arrested immediately.

The RFK Human Rights organization in September posted bail for many inmates at New Yorks notorious Rikers Island jail to free women and young people in New York City who are jailed because they cannot afford to post bail. It added: The action, which will begin October 1st and continue throughout the month, has organized over 200 volunteers who will pay bail at one of New York Citys five jails or volunteer at a 24-hour community mobile response unit.

A high-level police source told the Post at the time that the move was disgraceful. The person said, If a high bail is set, that means the police and DA feel strongly that they committed the crime; that they will probably serve some kind of criminal sentence; and lastly they would be a flight risk.

Herbert said theres now a $2,000 reward for information that could lead to an arrest of the suspect.

Violent Crime Down in 2018

The FBI said that in 2017 violent crime had dropped by 0.2 percent, according to a release, but aggravated and rape offenses increased by a respective 1.0 percent and 2.5 percent. The murder rate dropped by 0.7 percent, the agency said.

In 2017, there were an estimated 1,247,321 violent crimes. The estimated number of robbery offenses decreased 4.0 percent, and the estimated number of murder and nonnegligent manslaughter offenses decreased 0.7 percent when compared with estimates from 2016. The estimated volume of aggravated assault and rape (revised definition) offenses increased 1.0 percent and 2.5 percent, respectively, said the FBI.Newly elected lawmaker Eddie Chu shouts slogans while taking oath at the Legislative Council in Hong Kong on Oct. 12, 2016. (Bobby Yip/Reuters)

Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Lawmaker Barred From Contesting Local Election

HONG KONGHong Kong authorities have barred a pro-democracy lawmaker from running in a local election for implicitly supporting Hong Kongs independence from China, in what critics said was another instance of civil rights being eroded in the China-ruled city

Eddie Chu, a former journalist who was democratically elected as one of Hong Kongs 70 legislators in a 2016 election, had planned to contest a separate grassroots poll to represent a village in the rural hinterland of the New Territories.

But an official with Hong Kongs Electoral Affairs Commission, Enoch Yuen, wrote to Chu on Nov. 2 to disqualify his candidacy on the grounds that Chu had previously expressed support for independence as an option for Hong Kong people to self-determine their future.

While Chu had written to Yuen stating he didnt support independence, she concluded that Chus answers: When viewed objectively, can be understood as implicitly confirming that he supports independence could be an option for Hong Kong people.

Chu said he might challenge this ridiculous decision in court, and that he had been stripped of a fundamental political right at a time when Beijing has tightened its grip on the city.

He pointed out that he was already an elected lawmaker with strong public backing, whose suitability for public office had never previously been questioned.

They need to clearly tell the people of Hong Kong  how they can, without any public consultation or legislative process, change the threshold of political screening.

Hong Kong, a former British colony, reverted to Chinese rule in 1997 amid guarantees the territory would enjoy a high degree of autonomy and freedoms under a one country, two systems formula.

Over the past year, however, international concern has spread over a series of incidents that have further undermined confidence in Hong Kongs rights landscape, including the de facto expulsion of a British journalist after he hosted a speech by an independence activist at a press club.

The move against Chu adds to a list of other democrats who have been banned from contesting elections, fueling fears of tightening political red lines by Beijing that could deny Hong Kongs disaffected young people any mainstream political careers beyond street protest.

In a statement, a government spokesman said late Dec. 2 that the government agrees to and supports the decision to ban Chu.

Hong Kong authorities say self-determination, or seeking greater autonomy from China, violates the citys mini-constitution, the Basic Law, which states that Hong Kong is an inalienable part of China.

As Hong Kongs government hews closer to Beijing, officials are taking a tough line on perceived national security threats, even deploying an elite police unit for political monitoring and surveillancea sharp escalation in rhetoric and action.

Serving and retired police officers, lawyers, and lawmakers describe intensifying political operations by the police forces Security Wing, an elite unit that officially handles sensitive tasks including VIP protection and counter-terrorism investigations.

By James PomfretISIS Leader Involved in Death of Former US Army Ranger Has Been Killed: US Coalition

A senior leader of the ISIS terrorist group, Abu al Umarayn, was killed in a drone strike in Syria on Dec. 2, the U.S.-led coalition has told Fox News Pentagon correspondent Lucas Tomlinson. Al Umarayn had been involved in the killing of former U.S. Army ranger Peter Kassig.

Coalition spokesperson Col. Sean Ryan told Fox News, Al Umarayn had given indications of posing an imminent threat to Coalition Forces and he was involved in the killing of American Citizen and former U.S. Army Ranger, Peter Kassig.

He has been linked to and directly involved with executing several other prisoners as a senior ISIS member.

Coalition airstrikes continue to disrupt ISIS command and control on the battlefield as we remove key figures from their ranks.

Ryan said that several other ISIS members were also killed in the precision drone strike.

In Nov. 16, 2014, ISIS released a video of a masked terrorist standing over a severed head that it claimed belonged to Kassig. The White house confirmed Kassigs death hours later after a review of the video, which also showed the mass beheadings of a dozen Syrian soldiers. Kassig was 26 at the time.

This is Peter Edward Kassig, a U.S. citizen  who fought against the Muslims in Iraq, said the black-clad terrorist in a doctored video speaking with a British accent that disguised his identity. The video did not show Kassigs actual beheading.

Kassig, who served in one of the U.S. Armys special operations unit, the 75th Ranger Regiment, was deployed to Iraq in 2007. He returned to the United States later that year after being honorably discharged for medical reasons.

In 2012, Kassig formed an aid organization in Turkey called Special Emergency Response and Assistance (SERA) to help Syrian refugees.

Kassig was also a certified emergency medical technician who provided trauma care to wounded Syrians and helped train more than 100 civilians to provide medical aid.

After his capture by ISIS in eastern Syria on Oct. 1, 2013, while delivering food and medical supplies for SERA, Kassig had converted to Islam and took the name Abdul-Rahman Kassig.

He was taken hostage by ISIS in eastern Syria on Oct. 1, 2013, while delivering food and medical supplies to refugee camps for Syrians who had been caught in the countrys civil war.

According to a former hostage, Kassig voluntarily converted to Islam while in captivity and took the first name Abdul-Rahman Kassig sometime between October and December 2013 when he shared a cell with a devout Syrian Muslim. In a statement released Oct. 5, 2014, his parents wrote that they believe Kassigs journey towards Islam began before his captivity in October 2013.

Just prior to the White House confirming Kassigs death on Nov. 16, 2014, Kassigs family released the following statement, in part:

We are aware of the news reports being circulated about our treasured son and are waiting for confirmation from the government as to the authenticity of these reports.

The family respectfully asks that the news media avoid playing into the hostage takers hands and refrain from publishing or broadcasting photographs or video distributed by the hostage takers.

We prefer our son is written about and remembered for his important work and the love he shared with friends and family, not in the manner the hostage takers would use to manipulate Americans and further their cause.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

From NTD NewsFrench President Emmanuel Macron (L) shakes hands with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (R) after a meeting at the Elysee Palace in Paris on Oct. 17, 2018. ( Bertrand Guay/AFP/Getty Images)

Macron and Abe Seek to Avert Renault-Nissan Row

TOKYO/PARISFrance and Japans leaders met for bilateral talks to avert a diplomatic row over the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance on Nov. 30 following the surprise arrest of its Chairman Carlos Ghosn in Japan.

With the carmaking alliance facing its biggest test after the ousting of Ghosn as chairman of Nissan and affiliate Mitsubishi over financial misconduct allegations, President Emmanuel Macron sat down with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at the G20 summit in Buenos Aires.

Ghosns arrest to face accusations including the under-reporting of income has triggered new attempts by Nissan to weaken Renaults control of the Franco-Japanese alliance, adding to challenges facing Macron at home.

Macron, whose government has repeatedly pressed Japan to share evidence unearthed by Nissans internal investigation into Ghosn, restated his firm wish that the alliance should be preserved, along with the stability of the group, an Elysee official said after the Nov. 30 meeting with Abe.

Abe said it was important to maintain a stable relationship, according to a spokesman for the Japanese leader.

However, he said the future of the alliance is up to the private-sector shareholders. The government of Japan does not prejudge the future of the alliance, the spokesman said.

The French official quoted Abe as telling Macron that the legal process must be allowed to take its course.

Leaderless

Tokyo authorities on Nov. 30 extended Ghosns detention for a second time, by the maximum-allowed 10 days, local media reported. Prosecutors must file charges by Dec. 10 or arrest Ghosn for new crimes to hold him beyond that date.

Tokyo prosecutors declined to comment. Nissan did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Ghosns detention has left the global auto alliance without its leader and main interlocutor with the French government, which owns 15 percent of Renault and wants to maintain the ownership structure enshrining its control of the partnership.

But Nissan Chief Executive Hiroto Saikawa has made clear that Nissan wants to weaken the control of its smaller parent as it carries out a governance review.

Renaults 43.4 percent Nissan stake ensures an effective voting majority at shareholder meetings, while Nissans reciprocal 15 percent Renault holding carries no voting rights.

The Macron-Abe talks came as a diplomatic spat was brewing over comments by French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire, who said that his Japanese counterpart Hiroshige Seko had agreed in earlier talks that the cross-shareholdings should be left unchanged.

Seko denied any such agreement through a rare official letter of protest sent to Le Maire, Japanese daily newspaper Mainichi Shimbun reported.

Officials at both of the ministries declined to comment on the letter or the incident.

Le Maire also came in for criticism from Renault staff representatives concerned for the alliance.

The government should know their place and stay there, said a union official at the French carmaker. This kind of overreaching may be counter-productive.

As economy minister, Macron masterminded the French governments surprise increase to its Renault stake in 2015, raising concern within Nissan that the Elysee sought to wield more influence over the Japanese company.

Renault, Nissan, and Mitsubishi emphatically reiterated their commitment to the alliance on Nov. 29 after executives met in Amsterdam for the first time since Ghosns arrest.

A review of the capital structure was not discussed at the meeting, Mitsubishi CEO Osamu Masuko said.

By Kaori Kaneko & Michel RoseMexicos New President Takes Aim at Violence During First Day in Office

MEXICO CITYOn his first full day in office, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador defended a plan to end lawlessness with a new national guard, an initiative that risks upsetting some supporters who favor a less militarized approach.

In a Sunday morning speech, Mexicos first leftist president in decades continued to pivot from an emphasis during the campaign on peaceful reconciliation and even amnesty for some involved in the countrys grueling drug war to a more traditional approach defined by more soldiers and police.

We must adjust to a new era, he said, flanked by generals at a military base in the capital, while emphasizing that his security policy will also respect human rights.

In the first phase of his plan, a 60,000-strong national guard force made up of army, navy and other federal police will battle crime while a constitutional reform will be pursued to cement the new strategy.

Lopez Obrador has said the strategy will be put to a public vote, likely in March.

A second phase will add additional military forces to the effort.

The people of Mexico need their armed forces to address this grave problem of insecurity and violence right now, said Lopez Obrador, often turning toward the uniformed officers assembled behind him to address them directly.

Weve opted for this plan because we trust the armed forces, he said.

Over the past dozen years, Mexican security forces have toppled some high-profile drug kingpins but more than 200,000 people have been killed and tens of thousands more disappeared since a military-focused approach was initiated in 2006.

The last couple years have seen record numbers of murders, including in some of the countrys most fabled tourist destinations like Acapulco and Los Cabos.

During the campaign, his security aides outlined plans to reduce jail time for some crimes, as well as stiffer controls on weapons. The strategy leaned heavily on transitional justice, which often involves leniency for those who admit guilt, truth commissions to investigate atrocities and the granting of reparations for victims.

The landslide election winner has not yet detailed how those policies will the implemented.

By David Alire Garcia and Miguel GutierrezMother Forced to Leave Home After 5,000 Bats Drop Dead in Her Yard

An Australian mother of two said she was forced to flee her home in Edmonton, Queensland, after thousands of bats died on her lawn.

It was a scene out of a horror movie and there is still putrefied rotting carcasses everywhere, Philippa Schroor, the woman, told the Cairns Post. Shes one of the dozens of residents who have had to find temporary housing as a heat wave in Queensland killed thousands of bats.

Schroor believes 5,500 bats died on her property in the past week.

UPDATE#3: 100s more babies were rescued today and are in care. Carers are in need of the following items towels,    Pip Schroor     

The bats started dying after temperatures reached about 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

Schroor and her children have stayed in a hotel for the past several days.

And as of this week, clean-up crews have made little progress due to the large quantities of the animals that have fallen.

I cannot return home until I get a cleaner to scrub my walls, furniture, linen, vehicle upholstery before the smell has permeated everything. This is a public health issue, she said.

Sadly, the colony here has had significant loss, she said of the bats, according to The Weather Network. The volunteers have worked tirelessly to help and now its moved into a recovery mode/clean-up of dead bats.

#Australia: Family forced out of their home after dead bats fall from the skies https://t.co/HQfZMP3CtF via @MailOnline | #Queensland  jonestowne (@jonestowne) December 2, 2018

Edmonton resident Lisa Eagleton told the Daily Mail that she has had to deal with a similar problem. In those yellow plastic bins are at least 60 to 80 dead bats, she said, referring to dozens of bins near her home.

And then in every bag you see theres another 20 to 25 dead bats from behind my house, she continued.

High Heat

Trish Wimberley of the Australian Bat Clinic said that thousands more bats will likely perish before the heatwave stops.

When you have temperatures 40 degrees and over, especially for the consecutive days, you will start losing bats, she said, according to News.com.au. They cant sustain an internal temperature over 40 degrees exactly like humans cant  they just drop out of the trees dead and dying.

Near Cairns, bat colonies at Townsville and Ingham mostly died, Wimberley said. All (volunteers are) seeing is hundreds and hundreds of dead bats of a species that is critically endangered. Its heartbreaking, she said.

Health officials warned people not to handle the bats.

Some 15 percent of the bat population can transmit the potentially deadly Australian bat lyssavirus or ABLV.

ABLV is an infection like rabies, which can be transmitted through a bat bite or scratch, or possibly through exposure of the eyes, nose, or mouth to bat saliva, Doctor Richard Gair, director of Tropical Public Health Services said.

In January 2018, a heat wave hit much of Australia, causing temperatures to soar to 47 degrees Celsius (117 degrees Fahrenheit) near Sydney. At that time, thousands of bats suddenly dropped dead.

Kate Ryan, a bat expert, said that heat basically boils bats. It affects their braintheir brain just fries and they become incoherent, she was quoted by NPR as saying at the time.

The bats appear to be part of the Pteropus genus. They are known as fruit bats or flying foxes.

Old World fruit bat, (family Pteropodidae), any of more than 180 species of large-eyed fruit-eating or flower-feeding bats widely distributed from Africa to Southeast Asia and Australia. Some species are solitary, some gregarious. Most roost in the open in trees, but some inhabit caves, rocks, or buildings, according to Encyclopedia Britannica.Oklahoma State Senator Proposes Bill That Would Classify Abortion as Felony Homicide

A state senator in Oklahoma has proposed a bill that would classify abortion as a felony homicide, arguing that abortion can be considered as an act of taking a human life.

Its going to be classified as a homicide because, essentially, a fertilized egg is a human life just like a 1-year-old baby is a human life, Sen. Joseph Silk, a Republican, told KFOR.

So, an abortion would be considered intentionally taking a human life, he said.

The punishment for abortion would be up to life in prison.

Asked what he would tell a woman who was sentenced to life in prison for aborting an unborn child, Silk said: The exact same thing I would say to a mother who just killed a 1-month-old or a 1-year-old child. Its a horrific act and there shouldnt be any tolerance for it.

He was also asked a common question lobbed at officials and activists trying to limit abortion, whether his bill includes any exceptions for women who become pregnant through incest or rape.

The numbers of rape and incest are so tiny, under half a percent. So, its almost not even an arguable question, said Silk. It is a human life, regardless of how it came to be.

State Sen. Joseph Silk has introduced a bill in the Oklahoma Legislature that would criminalize abortion by including it in the state's definition of felony homicide. You can read about the legislation and more about stricken abortion measures here: https://t.co/3mNWEVGtyV pic.twitter.com/SH3iOFE9Cj  Tulsa World (@tulsaworld) November 30, 2018

Silks bill, Senate Bill 13, is called the Abolition of Abortion in Oklahoma Act and calls on Oklahoma to ignore federal law on abortion, similar to how some states and cities ignore federal law pertaining to illegal immigration.

The bill contains the argument that Roe v Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion in the country, is unconstitutional.

Any federal statute, regulation, executive order, or court decision which purports to supersede, stay, or overrule this act is in violation of the Constitution of the State of Oklahoma and the Constitution of the United States of America and is therefore void, the bill states. The State of Oklahoma and its political subdivisions, and agents thereof, may not enter an appearance, special or otherwise, in any federal suit challenging this act.

If passed, the bill would make abortion a homicide effective Nov. 1, 2019.

Allie Shinn, deputy director of the ACLU of Oklahoma, said the bill would damage so-called reproductive rights.

When to have children or whether to have children at all is a deeply personal decision, one in which the government has no right to interfere, she said. Senator Silk is demonstrating yet again that he has little interest in honoring his oath to uphold the Constitution.

Silk told the Tulsa World that during the fight to make slavery illegal, some states abolished it before the federal government. He said the fight for the rights of unborn babies could go the same way.

The goal is to say we are a sovereign state and choose to abolish abortion, Silk said.

Gov.-elect Kevin Stitt said on the campaign trail that he is pro-life and would appoint pro-life judges to the Oklahoma Supreme Court but a spokesman said he was busy focusing on the transition and couldnt comment on specific pieces of legislation.

From NTD NewsPeople Chosen to Help Decorate White House for Christmas Revel in Experience

People chosen to travel to Washington and help First Lady Melania Trump decorate the White House for Christmas said they loved the experience.

Jordan Sandusky, of Missouri, said shes applied five or six times. This year, she was one of 125 people chosen out of nearly 7,000 applicants.

I felt like I had won the lottery. I saw the little email pop-up on my phone and I just started jumping up and down and was like Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, I cannot believe that this is happening, it was just amazing, she told KFVS.

Most of the group spent around a week at the White House.

Its incredible Ive never been in D.C. before much less the White House so all of the history and the architecture, Sandusky said.

Im really drawn to that so it was just a dream come true for me. Its crazy to think when you walk those halls all those people that walked those same halls and the same staircases and touched the same handrails its just really surreal, she said.

Among the rooms the group got to see that the public rarely does in person included the West Wing, the private residence, and the Oval Office. That makes it even more special, she said.

Illinois Man Makes Memories

Dennis Brasier, a mortgage closer at Illinois National Bank and a Marine veteran, said he got an alert about signing up because hes subscribed to President Donald Trumps email list.

He said he spent one day in an offsite warehouse sorting decorations before putting all the lights on trees in the East Room the next day. They wrap every branch with the lights, to add depth to the tree.

The best part of his experience was going to the window and watching the president board Marine One and take off.

We were waving out of the center Blue Room window. He turned around and pointed at us. That was the neatest thing Ive ever seen, Brasier told The State Journal-Register. I got to go work in the White House and see everything. It was something that, as former Marine from Springfield, Illinois, I will always remember.

Georgia Woman Revels in Experience

Meredith Davidenko of Forsyth County was another volunteer who loved the experience.

The mother of two said that she had tears in her eyes when she walked into the White House.

I actually got so teary-eyed when I walked in not only because of where I was but because of the history of the building, Davidenko told Fox 5.

She helped to decorate the red trees that line the hallways of the White House.

She called it an honor to be on the grounds.

It doesnt matter your political affiliation. It doesnt matter male or female. It doesnt matter your religion, its the house for the people, she said. I will treasure it for the rest of my life.

From NTD NewsPhoto of George HW Bushs Service Dog Sully Laying by Coffin Is Released: Mission Complete

A photo shows former President George H.W. Bushs service dog lying next to his coffin in Houston, Texas, on Dec. 2

The dog, Sully, a specially trained Golden Labrador Retriever, is seen next to the 41st presidents flag-draped coffin. The photo was shared on George W. Bushs Instagram page. A family spokesman also said, Mission complete.

The dog was named after the pilot who landed a damaged passenger plane on the Hudson River in New York City in the 2009 Miracle on the Hudson incident. Sully will accompany Bushs casket on its flight to Washington on Dec. 3.

The dog, which is highly trained, will help other veterans and is going to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, according to CNN.

As much as our family is going to miss this dog, were comforted to know hell bring the same joy to his new home, Walter Reed, that he brought to 41, former President George W. Bush wrote on Instagram.

The report noted that Sully can perform a number of commands, including answering the phone and fetching specific items.

As one person said, he can do just about anything except make you a martini, but not to worry, he can go get you someone to make you a martini, Bush family spokesman Jim McGrath said in June.

Sully worked for Bush over the summer after former First Lady Barbara Bush died.

A great joy to welcome home the newest member of our family, Sully, a beautiful, and beautifully trained, lab from Americas VetDogs. Could not be more grateful, especially for their commitment to our veterans, Bush said on Twitter about the dog in June.

Details of Death, Service

In Texas, students, staff and visitors have been flocking to Bushs presidential library on the campus of Texas A&M University, with thousands of mourners paying their respects at a weekend candlelight vigil at a nearby pond and others contributing to growing flower memorials at Bush statues at both the library and a park in downtown Houston.

I think he was one of the kindest, most generous men, said Marge Frazier, who visited the downtown statue on Sunday while showing friends from California around. A similar outpouring is anticipated in Washington this week during the state funeral for Bush, who died late Friday at his home in Houston.

He was 94. Bush, who was president from 1989 to 1993, will lie in state beneath the soaring U.S. Capitol rotunda for a ceremony and public visitation from Monday through Wednesday. An invitation-only funeral service is set for Wednesday at Washington National Cathedral. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump are scheduled to attend. Bushs family has not said who will speak at the service.

Bushs casket is set to arrive in Washington on Monday afternoon aboard the U.S. military airplane thats more commonly recognized as Air Force One. The crew has been tasked by President Trump with carrying out Special Air Mission 41. The number is a reference to Bushs place in the roster of Americas presidents.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.World leaders in a group photo at the Colon Theatre during the G-20 Summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on Nov. 30, 2018. U.S. President Donald Trump is pictured in the front row (4th L) with Chinese leader Xi Jinping (4th R). (Guido Bergmann/Bundesregierung via Getty Images)

Qualcomms Chances of Acquiring NXP Slim Despite Promise by Chinese Leader Xi Jinping

After a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Argentina, U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping made several trade promises, including a 90-day ceasefire on tariff increases.

However, how many of Chinas assurances can actually come to fruition is now under close scrutiny, particularly on the possible revival of U.S. chipmaker Qualcomms bid to acquire Dutch rival NXP Semiconductors.

During the meeting, Xi said that he was open to approving the previously unapproved QualcommNXP deal, according to a White House statement on Dec. 1.

The takeover was scuttled after Chinas antitrust regulator failed to give its approval by a July deadline, even though eight other regulators in the United States, Japan, South Korea, European Union, and Russia, had cleared the deal.

In Buenos Aires, at a news conference held after the XiTrump meeting concluded, Beijings top diplomat Wang Yi did not address issues about Qualcomm, according to Reuters.

Xis promise was also conspicuously absent from initial coverage of the meeting by Chinese state-run media.

On Dec. 3, Qualcomm, in a statement, made its stance clear. The company said there was no prospect for the acquisition to be revived, according to Reuters.

While we were grateful to learn of President Trump and President Xis comments about Qualcomms previously proposed acquisition of NXP, the deadline for that transaction has expired, which terminated the contemplated deal, an unnamed Qualcomm representative said in the emailed statement.

Qualcomm considers the matter closed.

The combative tone of Chinese state medias subsequent coverage of the Qualcomm promise revealed that Beijing was in actuality not enthused about the acquisition bids potential revival.

In a Dec. 3 online essay widely circulated on the popular social media platform WeChat, a Beijing-linked official commented on the Qualcomm issue with standard propaganda emphasizing Chinas superiority.

Mei Shuin, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, an institute run by the Ministry of Commerce, wrote that the Qualcomm issue showed how China has declared to the world its powers of jurisdiction in international business deals.

Mei added that since the SinoU.S. trade dispute commenced, China has been buying from countries other than the United States. Governments and companies should take advantage of that limited window of opportunity to enter the Chinese market, Mei wrote. His article was republished by Xiakedao, a social media account affiliated with the Chinese Communist Partys mouthpiece newspaper Peoples Daily.

Political Decision

Any revival of Qualcomms acquisition, with or without the latest stamp of approval from Xi, is perhaps unlikely, given that Chinas refusal to grant regulatory approval in the first place was more than a business decisionit was widely perceived as a retaliatory and protectionist move by Beijing to prop up Chinas domestic tech sector. The failed bid happened just as the U.S. administration announced an escalation of tariffs on Chinese goods weeks prior.

This rationale is confirmed by how Chinese media covered the failed bid then. Chinese news portal Sohu, in an August 2018 editorial, claimed that Qualcomms finances would suffer tremendously as a result of its failed acquisition bidgreater than the loss of 8 million yuan (about $1.16 million) suffered by Chinese telecoms firm ZTE in the first half of 2018 as a result of a U.S. export ban. The editorial article stated that such a turn of events proved an old Chinese saying correct: What goes around comes around.

In April, ZTE was prevented from procuring U.S. tech supplies after it was found guilty of violating U.S. sanctions on Iran and North Korea. ZTEs operations came to a halt. The Chinese firm only received a lifeline after agreeing to a U.S. deal whereby the ban will be lifted if ZTE pays $1 billion in penalties and puts another $400 million in an escrow account.

Additionally, the editorial stated that if Qualcomms bid were to be approved by Chinese regulators, the U.S. chipmaker would have a monopoly over semiconductors used in auto vehicles. Other companies would put in a less favorable position in the upcoming era of 5G and IoT (internet of things), it read. These are technologies that the Chinese regime has aggressively invested in developing domestically so that the Chinese sector could eventually top global competitors.

Countries are currently vying for leadership in 5G, the next generation of wireless mobile technology, because it is seen as critical to economic growth.

Huawei and ZTE have both received significant state funding for their development of 5G technology.

In a recent report issued by the U.S.China Economic and Security Review Commission, experts warned that the United States may soon lose ground to China in the 5G tech race. According to data from research group LexInnova, Chinese companies hold roughly 7 percent of all global 5G patents as of 2017. However, Western companies are currently in the lead for 5G patent ownership, Qualcomm with the most 5G patents at 15 percent, followed by Finnish firm Nokia with 11 percent, and Swedish company Ericsson with 8 percent.Rare December Tornadoes Reported in Central US, Killing 1

TAYLORVILLE, Ill.Residents in central Illinois on Sunday assessed damage after rare December tornadoes that ripped roofs off homes, downed power lines and injured at least 20 people the day before.

The severe weather in Illinois was part of a line of thunderstorms that raked areas of the central U.S. late Friday and into Saturday, killing one person in Missouri. Tornadoes were also reported in Arkansas and Oklahoma.

The National Weather Service sent crews Sunday to survey the hardest-hit areas in Illinois, which included Taylorville, 25 miles southeast of Springfield, Springfields State Journal-Register reported.

Photographs and video from Taylorville showed houses flattened, with residents wading into debris to salvage what they could. Some homes remained standing but with gaping holes in the roofs or with no roofs at all.

Assistant Fire Chief Andy Goodall spoke to reporters Saturday night shortly after the storms pounded the city of 11,000, saying at least 100 homes had major damage, including his own.

A Taylorville Memorial Hospital spokesman said 21 people, from age 9 to 97, arrived for treatment Saturday. Most were discharged within hours.

The National Weather Service has confirmed tornadoes in Oklahoma, Missouri and Illinois and was working to verify reports of tornadoes in Arkansas.

The National Weather Service says peak months for tornadoes in much of the Midwest are April and June.

It wasnt only twisters that were a concern. So were heavy rain and strong winds. A 75 mph wind gust at Springfields Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport on Saturday evening set a December wind speed record for the Illinois capital, the State Journal-Register reported.Rare White Reindeer Calf Appears in Snowy Northern Norway

Video: Hiker Gets Very Close to Reindeer Herd

A rare baby white reindeer was photographed behind a snowy background in Norway, going viral.

The calf posed for photos after emerging from the woods with its mother, which is brownish in color, according to the Daily Mail.

White reindeer are not albino, but they have a rare genetic mutation that strips their fur of any pigment, leaving only white.

Photographer Mads Nordsveen, from Oslo, was on a hiking trip when he spotted the reindeer calf.

I was walking in the mountains looking for nice landscapes for my travel photography when out of nowhere I saw this wonderful little creature, he was quoted by the Daily Mail as saying. His photos were posted to his Instagram page.

He added that he met this little reindeer in northern Norway, without elaborating where. He almost disappeared in the snow, Nordsveen wrote.

The photographer elaborated more on the encounter.

Rare White Reindeer Spotted In The Wild in Norway https://t.co/E6OW3mEk5g via @ladbible  norsk #yeniden (@norsk_3) December 3, 2018

He came very close to me and we looked at each other straight in the eyes, he said. He was quite relaxed when he saw that I was calm and friendly. It was almost as if he posed for the camera.

He added: He was very curious and fun. Like a little explorer. After some minutes the mother of the baby reindeer came out of trees just behind. It walked around for some minutes before running back to its mother.

It was very magical and a fairytale moment, Nordsveen said, according to the Mail.

Traditional Sami culture places a high value on white reindeer.

Vulnerable Species

Known as caribou in North America, reindeer are native to the Arctic, sub-Arctic, tundra, boreal, and mountainous regions of northern Siberia, Europe, and North America.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species considers reindeer to be a vulnerable species.

The animals were classified in 2015 due to an observed 40 percent decline over three generations (about 21-27 years) across the circum-Arctic countries, when Rangifer declined from about 4,800,000 to 2,890,410 individuals, the IUCN says. Uncertainty is high about the extent of the decline and the under-lying mechanisms except at a general level. Extent and causes of the decline vary with region and subspecies.

It adds: The species is largely migratory and gregarious and is thus susceptible to declines as a result of landscape changes, including the establishment of barriers (related to human activities and infrastructure development), which can disrupt migration routes and destroy seasonal habitat. Unregulated hunting, time lags in management and habitat alteration leading to habitat loss, fragmentation, and changes in predation are mechanisms for declines.

Reindeer have to migrate on long journeys, says the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Large herds are more apt to migrate long distances, while smaller herds often migrate shorter distances. For example, the Porcupine caribou herd, which contains about 123,000 animals, migrates between summer and winter ranges that are about 400 miles apart. The Central Arctic herd, which contains about 27,000 animals, migrates between summer and winter ranges that are about 120 miles apart, it says.(L to R) Russia's President Vladimir Putin, US President Donald Trump, Rwandas President Paul Kagame, Brazil's President Michel Temer and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman line up for a family photo, during the G-20 Leaders' Summit in Buenos Aires, on Nov. 30, 2018. (Juan Mabromate/AFP/Getty Images)

Russia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia Second-Guessing Paris Climate Accord, Senior US Official Says

Officials representing Russia, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia appear to have doubts about remaining in the Paris climate accord, a senior Trump administration official told reporters at the G-20 summit at Buenos Aires on Dec. 1.

The official made the remarks after the leaders of 20 nations signed a declaration (pdf) that includes a passage reiterating that the United States is withdrawing from the Paris Agreement. The portion of the declaration dealing with the climate caused the most contention among the parties and was the last to be settled, according to the official.

What was interesting is that this was one of the last issues to close, the official said. Because the countries who typically might agree couldnt agree with each other. And what youre starting to see is youre seeing a little bit of the coalition fraying. Countries like Turkey, like Saudi Arabia, like Russia, might be second-guessing some of that.

President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the Paris climate agreement in June 2017. Russia and Turkey are signatories on the agreement, but have not yet ratified it internally. Saudi Arabia ratified the agreement in November 2016.

The G-20 declaration states that the signatories of the climate accord reaffirm that the Paris Agreement is irreversible and commit to its full implementation. That point is followed by a rebuke from the United States.

The United States reiterates its decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, and affirms its strong commitment to economic growth and energy access and security, utilizing all energy sources and technologies, while protecting the environment, the declaration states.

Saudi Arabia and Russia are now the worlds second- and third-largest oil producers after the United States became the worlds largest oil producer in August.

Russias Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Sergei Donskoi, told the Sputnik News Agency last year that Americas exit from the climate accord will not impact Russias plans to ratify it. Donskoi said Moscow would make a ratification decision no earlier than January 2019.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told the G-20 summit leaders in 2017 that Turkey is unlikely to ratify the agreement because Washingtons exit jeopardizes compensation promised to developing countries.

Saudi Arabia was committed to the deal in 2017, promising to make changes in line with its economic reform agenda designed to wean the country off oil.

While announcing the U.S. exit on June 1, 2017, Trump said the agreement disadvantages the United States to the exclusive benefit of other countries, leaving American workerswho I loveand taxpayers to absorb the cost in terms of lost jobs, lower wages, shuttered factories, and vastly diminished economic production.

No other country joined the United States in exiting the accord, but the senior administration officials comments indicated that this may change.

We preserved our position. I think we explained it. And again, I think our message was resonating in the room, because that was the last issue to close, and there were other countries who are thinking long and hard about whether they still wanted to remain committed to that paradigm, the official said.

The Paris Climate accord, signed by 195 countries, aims to keep the global temperature rise this century well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

President Barack Obama signed the agreement in September 2016. The Obama administration made an individual commitment (pdf) to the climate accord to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2628 percent below 2005 levels by 2025.

According to a report by the Heritage Foundation, if the United States abided by its commitments through 2035, the country would lose 400,000 jobs, an average family of four would lose $20,000 in income, and household electric bills would go up by 1320 percent. In total, the country stood to lose $2.5 trillion in gross domestic product, according to the report.

On Dec. 3, world leaders gathered in Katowice, Poland, for what is billed as the most significant climate conference since Paris. Delegates from nearly 200 nations debated on how to achieve the goals of the climate accord. Representatives from some of the worlds most powerful countries were absent from the summit.

Michal Kurtyka, Polands deputy environment minister and president of the talks, said that without success in Katowice, Paris would not be a success, as it had only decided what was needed, not how it could be done.

Moreover, the wider political environment had changed.

The wave of optimism and global cooperation that carried us to and through Paris has now crested, broken, and is now tumbling, he told delegates.

Reuters contributed to this report.

Notice: The headline has been updated to more accurately reflect the official statement.Sewings Options Dwindle as Deutsche Bank Hit by Fresh Scandals

After working feverishly for months to accelerate a turnaround plan for Deutsche Bank AG, Chief Executive Officer Christian Sewing has hit a wall.

On Nov. 29, a day after he gave a pep talk to management, the banks headquarters including offices of its entire management board were searched by police. The shares fell to a record low amid the prospect of yet another costly probe, this time related to disclosures from the Panama Papers. Days earlier, the company was sucked deeper into another money laundering scandal at Danske Bank A/S.

The events threaten to accelerate a negative feedback loop of falling revenue, declining morale and rising funding costs. While many of Deutsche Banks largest investors, contacted before the raids, said they still back him, they argued he only has another quarter or two to prove his approach can work. At the same time, strategic alternatives are getting ever more painful for shareholders because of the low stock price.

As the 148-year-old institution continues its stumbles, heres a look at some scenarios how it may play out.

More Cuts

Sewing took over in April with a mandate to accelerate cost cuts, but he has recently emphasized efforts to invest again in growth after years of falling revenue. Still, additional savings arent entirely off the table. The CEO said privately that hell review his strategy if its becoming clear that its not working, a person familiar with his thinking has said. His current plan has set only vague targets beyond 2019 and investors will likely soon demand more detail.

Further reductions to the U.S. operations would be welcome, two large investors said asking not to be identified discussing individual investments. Wherever the bank will shrink, it wont be at the expense of revenue, Chief Financial Officer James von Moltke has said.

A German Merger

This is the option thats been most hotly debated in the past year. Cerberus Capital Management, the biggest private investor in rival Commerzbank AG, a year ago revealed owning a large stake in Deutsche Bank, too. A deal would enable the newly formed bank to cut possibly tens of thousands of jobs, hundreds of branches and an uncounted number of IT systems, positioning it for higher profit in the overbanked German market.

Many top executives agree it could make sense for the two to join at some point, according to people briefed on their thinking. But they also say a tie-up would be difficult as long as both banks are locked in multi-year turnaround programs. The long, painful decline in the share price of Deutsche Bank, the larger of the two, is another obstacle, though it may make a deal more palatable to Commerzbank.

A European Deal

Many people inside Deutsche Bank prefer a merger with a bank outside Germany that would complement the German lender rather than making big parts of it redundant. The banks top executives and its supervisory board went through several scenarios at their annual strategy meeting in September, though in the end decided that the time isnt right.

The biggest obstacle to such a scenario, again, is Deutsche Banks low share price. Any deal at the current valuation means Deutsche Bank may end up as the junior partner. UBSs market capitalization, for example, is more than twice as high. A higher share price would open more strategic options for Deutsche Bank, a key reason why top management is opposed to making a decision too soon, according to one of the people.

Teaming Up

A less disruptive approach to grow some revenue would be a joint venture. Sewing has repeatedly touted the idea over the past few months as an alternative to bank consolidation and a way for European banks to bulk up retail platforms against a potential threat posed by large Internet firms such as Google, Amazon, and Facebook.

Deutsche Bank has already teamed up with other firms to create online product offerings such as the digital identity management app Verimi. But that is a very small start. If Sewing really sees joint ventures as an alternative to mergers, he must have bigger things in mind.

Splitting Up

While Sewing is trying to win over shareholders by showing his current plan is starting to bear fruit, hes been discussing changes that would make a deal simpler to execute. The lender has been weighing a move to split its core businesses under a holding company, a measure that would make it easier to break up in a crisis and more agile in potential mergers, people with knowledge of the discussions told Bloomberg in September. Implementation would face many regulatory and operational hurdles, however, and CFO von Moltke said the discussions were not strategic.

A holding structure would also make it easier to split up the bank into a retail lender and an investment bank. A proposal to do so was tabled at the last annual general meeting in May. Although Deutsche Banks management board recommended voting against the proposal, arguing that splitting the bank would damage the business, it still received more than 5 percent of the vote.

Plodding On

Theres still a chance that no change in plan will be needed. Some regulators and several investors agree that it will be hard for the bank at the current juncture to pull off a deal that radiates strategic vision rather than desperation, the people said. If Sewing manages to stabilize earnings  despite the fresh headwindsinvestors may regain confidence.

Sewing has won the backing of Doug Braunstein, the former JPMorgan Chase & Co. finance head whose Hudson Executive Capital LLP in early November revealed owning a 3.1 percent stake in Deutsche Bank. Deutsche Banks shares should end up trading about three times higher than their current level if Sewings plan succeeds, Braunstein said at the time, and a merger with another bank isnt needed to achieve that.

By Steven Arons

From BloombergAn operator works on processed metal at the Gestamp Automocion factory branch in Abrera, near Barcelona, on June 19, 2018. (Josep Lago/AFP/Getty Images)

Spain Recovering From Financial Crisis, but Fears a New Recession

BARCELONA, SpainFor Enric Casal, Spains deep economic crisis was both his downfall and his salvation.

After losing his job in a car company in Madrid, he was forced to resort to asking for food and clothing for his family at a soup kitchen run by the Red Cross.

Staff there spotted the way he got on easily with others and asked if he would like to volunteer. He was eventually hired and is now doing something he really enjoys.

Though Casals, 47, sees la crisis, as it is referred to in Spain, as the best thing that happened to him, he cannot help fearing for the future.

Things have got better, of course. Unemployment is down. People are more optimistic. Investment has returned, Casal told The Epoch Times.

But look underneath the surface and we are not looking at an economy on the same scale as before 2008. Perhaps we never will.

He is among the 81.7 percent who told a recent survey that they feared Spain would be hit by a new slump within the next five years.

The poll, by consulting firm 40dB for El Pais newspaper, found that nearly a quarter, or 23.2 percent, of the 2,000 respondents were sure a new economic crisis lay around the corner, while 58.5 percent viewed it as probable.

Spains decade-long building boom turned to bust in 2008 at the same time as the world financial crisis.

Unemployment shot up to 27 percent, and for young people, aged 18 to 24, it approached 50 percent in some parts of the country.

Tens of thousands were forced to emigrate in search of work.

Economists said Spain only showed signs of growth six years later in 2014.

When questioned in the survey about who they blamed for the recession, Spaniards pointed the finger at the countrys political class and mismanagement in the banking sector.

Also in the frame were the global financial situation and Spains get-rich-quick housing bubble, which had to burst.

The so-called troika of the European Central Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the European Commission was held responsible for forcing Spain to enact severe cuts when the crisis happened.

Even immigrants were blamed by 29 percent of respondents in the survey.

Today

Flash forward six years, and Spain has come a long way from the dark days of 2012 when it had to request a 100 billion euro ($113 billion) bailout for its banking sector.

Now, however, its problems are more to do with politics and less to do with the economy.

An independence drive in wealthy Catalonia threatened to tear the country apart. Also, the political establishment is fragmented after the emergence of the center-right Ciudadanos party and the far left Podemos, both born out of the popular anger from the first crisis.

Mari Carmen Rodriguez, 63, a divorcee who lives alone in Barcelona, says it makes her stomach turn when she hears people talk about the crisis ending.

The recession never ended. I have not noticed life getting any better. Life is just the same for me, she said.

Rodriguez has been out of work for the past five years. At her age, she has little chance of finding work in the future. She survives on 400 euros ($454) per month and pays a reduced rent as she lives in social housing.

The Future

The name of Espera, which means hope in Spanish, seemed a bitter irony when the countrys economy hit rock bottom. This small town in Andalusia in southern Spain had, for a time, the highest unemployment rate in the country at 39 percent in 2013. The same year, the national rate was 25 percent.

The biggest employer in Espera, which has 4,000 inhabitants, was the construction industry, which was badly hit by the crisis.

Espera, like the Spanish economy, is on the mend. The unemployment rate has fallen to 19.8 percent, but it is still above the national rate of 15 percent.

Like many other young people in the town, Jose Quereras, 24, decided to leave and went to London. He found work in bars and restaurants but, after two years, believed that Britain did not hold any future for him.

Back in Spain, he now works on a building site.

The trouble is that everyone is saying that we may have another crisis very soon in Spain. I cant face leaving again, so I am going to try to re-train as a teacher, he said.

My family and, I think, my future is in Spain.State Funeral Arrangements for George H.W. Bush Announced

The state funeral of late former President George H.W. Bush will commence on Dec. 3 and span four days, with 11 ceremonies and three services in two states and the District of Columbia, the Department of Defense announced.

We, the men and women of the Department of Defense, are honored and proud to support the Bush family and will do so with the utmost respect, said Maj. Gen. Michael Howard in a Dec. 1 release, a day after the former presidents passing at age 94. Howard heads the Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region, the nearly 4,000-strong military task force that is overseeing the funeral.

President Donald Trump announced hell send Air Force One to Texas to carry Bushs body to Washington from Houston on Dec. 3. A departure ceremony will be held at the Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base near Houston at 10:30 a.m. local time.

The plane will land at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, where an arrival ceremony will be held at 3:30 p.m. local time. The remains will then be moved to the U.S. Capitol, where an arrival ceremony is scheduled to start at 4:45 p.m., with members of the House and Senate in attendance, followed by a short service.

Bushs body will lie in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol from 7:30 p.m. until Dec. 5 at 8:45 a.m., with a guard of honor in attendance. Details of public access are yet to be announced.

Trump declared Dec. 5, as a National Day of Mourning and called on Americans to assemble on that day in their respective places of worship to pay homage to the memory of President George H.W. Bush.

I invite the people of the world who share our grief to join us in this solemn observance, he said in a Dec. 1 proclamation.

He also ordered flags to half-staff for 30 days at the White House and other official sites, including public buildings and military posts, in Bushs honor and and as an expression of public sorrow.

On Dec. 5 at 10 a.m., a departure ceremony will begin, after which Bushs remains will be transported to the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in Washington, also known as the Washington National Cathedral, where a funeral service will be held for invited guests at 11 a.m.

Following a departure ceremony at 12:30 p.m., the casket bearing the former president will be moved to Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, and flown back to Ellington Field, before being transported to St. Martins Episcopal Church in Houston. Bushs body will lie in repose there from 6:45 p.m. local time on Dec. 5 until at 6 a.m. on Dec. 6, with a guard of honor in attendance.

A funeral mass will be held at the church at 10 a.m. local time on Dec. 6 for invited guests.

At 11:15 a.m., after a departure ceremony, the remains will be transported by motorcade to the Union Pacific Railroads Westfield Auto Facility in Spring, Texas. Bushs remains will then be taken by funeral train car to College Station, Texas.

The locomotive that will pull the train, No. 4141, was specially painted to resemble Air Force One in 2005 in Bushs honor, Union Pacific said on its website.

The train will take about two and a half hours to make the roughly 70-mile trip through Hufsmith, Pinehurst, Magnolia, Todd Mission, Stoneham, Navasota, Millican, and Wellborn.

The train is scheduled to depart after a ceremony at 12:30 p.m. and arrive for a ceremony at the Texas A&M University, scheduled at 3:45 p.m. The university is the site of George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, where his remains will be laid to rest at 4:15 p.m.

Bush served as U.S. vice president from 1981 to 1989 under President Ronald Reagan. He then succeeded Reagan for a single term. He spent time with his large family, thereafter, while his public agenda included a number of philanthropic activities.

Bush is one of the few who had a Navy ship named after them while they were still alive. The USS George H.W. Bush, the last of 10 Nimitz-class aircraft carriers, was commissioned in 2009, and Bush himself attended its naming ceremony in 2002.

During his later years, Bush suffered from a condition that mimics Parkinsons disease, which didnt allow him to walk and made it hard for him to speak.

He passed away while surrounded by his family members and others.

He will be interred next to his wife, Barbara, who died in April, and his daughter, Pauline Robinson Bush, who died in 1953 at age 3.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor the late president may make donations to the George Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University.Secretary of State Mike Pompeo at the Department of State in Washington on Nov. 20, 2018. Pompeo met with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu after President Donald Trump released a statement signaling that the United States will stand by Saudi Arabia after the killing of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul. (Mark Wilson/Getty Images)

The Dirty Game of Foreign Policy

Khashoggi murder showcases tough strategic choices

Commentary

Its a principle that applies on a personal level and on a national level: If you insist on making friends solely with saints, you are going to have a very lonely existence. As a practical matter, effective foreign policy demands recognition of this truism, no matter the nations at issue.

The Middle East presents a particular challenge, as the killing of Saudi Arabian dissident and journalist Jamal Khashoggi illustrates.

There seems to be little doubt that Khashoggi was murdered and that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, at some level, is likely responsible. Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman would seem to be the person most likely to have ordered the hit, if indeed such an order was given.

If we apply Western norms to this incident, there is every reason to condemn the royal House of Saud in general and Prince Mohammad in particular. Civilized governments allow critical journalism. Civilized governments dont jail, much less execute, journalists critical of the government.

That is all true and very important. One of the requirements for a free, flourishing society is the open exchange of ideas, and an independent press plays a vital role in establishing that sort of dialogue. There is, of course, a difference between an independent press and an unbiased press. The former is a policy of effective governments. The latter is a fantasy.

Admit it or not, every journalistic outlet, no matter how hard they try to be impartial, includes some hard-wired, unavoidable bias that affects their coverage of issues important to the outlet. Thats OK, so long as media outlets are truly independent. In that atmosphere, the best ideas will compete against lesser ideas and the more effective ideas will flourish, sooner or later.

Neither Turkey, the nation in which Khashoggi died, nor the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia supports a free press.

Outside of Israel, to a greater or lesser extent, the free press doesnt really exist in that part of the world. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the current president of Turkey, heads up an authoritarian, fundamentalist regime that is widely reported to have more journalists currently imprisoned than any other nation in the world.

Erdogan is no friend of Western values like an independent media, so why would an apparent secular crusader like Khashoggi end up in a home of repression like Erdogans Turkey?

One answer is that Khashoggi wasnt a crusader for free, democratic institutions at all. Rather, he was a radical fundamentalist using his unique position in the Muslim world to undermine the House of Sauds governance of Saudi Arabia. Khashoggi was tied to the fundamentalist Muslim Brotherhood, openly supported former Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi who was the Brotherhoods champion in that country, and was granted access to Osama bin Laden by al-Qaeda when the infamous terrorist was in hiding.

It appears that Khashoggi, like the Greek god Janus, had two faces. One sneered at Saudi Arabia, seemingly appalled at its violations of Western values like freedom of expression and equality that Western nations so value. The other face leered toward fundamentalist Islam, happy in the certain knowledge that he was cleverly undermining Saudi Arabias West-leaning royal family, paving the way for a fundamentalist resurgence in the desert kingdom.

Ive spent substantial stretches of time in Saudi Arabia as part of my job. Like most Westerners, the culture-shock upon being immersed in a theocratic kingdom such as Saudi Arabia was almost overwhelming. There is much about the nation that offends Western sensibilities, and I have often been critical of many of its laws and institutions.

All that said, if America is going to be a force for good in that part of the world, we have to be engaged in that part of the world with more nations than Israel. President Barack Obama understood that, and many of my fellow conservatives criticized him for it. Today, the pious shock over President Donald Trump choosing to remain engaged with Saudi Arabia mostly originates from the other side of the aisle.

Trump and his foreign policy advisers seem to understand two basic facts about the Middle East that anyone who has spent substantial amounts of time in that part of the world know to be true:

One, if you are going to engage with the Muslim-majority states, then you have to pick a side, either the Sunni states (most importantly Saudi Arabia, the Gulf States, and Egypt) or Iran, the big dog on the Shia side. You cant be buddies with both, and most sober-minded people recognize that for all the ruthlessness that characterizes the House of Sauds rule in Saudi Arabia, the mullahs who run Iran are far worse and much more dangerous.

Two, the United States is much more likely to be a civilizing influence in Saudi Arabia than we could ever be in Iran. I never thought Id live to see the day that women were allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia. The fact that bin Salman made that happen is a hopeful sign.

To sum up, I do not support murdering journalists of any ilk, for any reason. A free press is a necessary pillar of a free society. But it appears to me that Khashoggi was far from the saint opponents of the Trump administration want us to believe. The evidence suggests he was conflating a cover role as a reform-minded journalist with his larger goal of helping to establish more fundamentalist Muslim states.

Thats what we here in the United States call the long gameclever, deceptive, and designed to succeed gradually over time. One imagines that playing the long game in a region as full of brutality as the Middle East takes a mixture of courage and stupidity. Khashoggis unfortunate end seems to support that conclusion.

Richard J. Trzupek is a chemist and environmental consultant as well as an analyst at the Heartland Institute. He is also the author of Regulators Gone Wild: How the EPA Is Ruining American Industry.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.Members of the Hungarian Jewish community take part in a ceremony during which a giant Menorah is lit to mark the start of Hanukkah celebrations on Dec. 2, 2018 at the Nyugati (Western) square in the center of Budapest. (Attila Kisbenedek/AFP/Getty Images)

The Story of Hanukkah

Beginning on the night of Dec. 2, Hanukkah celebrates the Jewish war for independence in the second century B.C. Although many gentiles know about dreidel games and menorahs, the history is unknown to most gentiles and even some Jews.

The ignorance is surprising, since the books that tell the story, the first and second books of the Maccabees, are part of the Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox, and Slavonic bibles. Although not canonical in the Jewish and Protestant traditions, the Maccabees story helped inspire the Jewish guerrillas who fought the Holocaust, Great Britains Glorious Revolution of 1688, and the American Revolution.

So heres the story of Hanukkah, as told in the books that have stirred so many freedom-fighters. The first book of Maccabees is a reasonably good history, much of which is confirmed by other classical histories and records. Like almost all classical-period histories, the book has a highly partisan point of view. The second book of Maccabees, which retells some of the same story, is less complete as history but superior as literature.

The Story

After the death of Alexander the Great, his territories broke into four empires. By the second century B.C., Israel was part of the Seleucid Empire, based in modern-day Syria and Iraq. For a while, the Seleucids were content with financial tribute from Israel, and otherwise left the Jews alone.

In 174 B.C., the new Seleucid king, Antiochus IV, got involved in internal Israeli politics, using increasingly harsh measures in support of Hellenizing (pro-Greek culture) factions and against the traditionalists. Eventually, he looted and desecrated the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, thus alienating and radicalizing not only the traditionalists, but also many Hellenizers.

The Seleucids put to death the women who had their children circumcised, and their families, and those who circumcised them; and they hung the infants from their mothers necks. The Jewish religion was outlawed, and possession of a Bible was a capital offense. (1 Mac. 1:57-61).

When the Seleucid army moved into rural areas to compel enforcement of the new laws, a revolution began. In the foothills of the Judean Mountains, in the village of Modin in 167 B.C., the Seleucid army set up an altar, and ordered the local Jewish priest, Mattathias, to sacrifice a pig and eat it. He refused, as did his five sons. When a Jewish collaborator came forward to offer the sacrifice, a furious Mattathias ran and killed him on the altar. Mattathias then ran and killed the kings officer who was forcing them to sacrifice, and he tore down the altar. (1 Mac. 2:15-25).

Mattathias and his sons headed for the Judean hills. In their first year, they gathered about 200 supporters, of whom about 50 were able-bodied men. They had no military training, and their only weapons were farming tools and whatever simple weapons they could construct, such as maces or slings. The Maccabees thus fulfilled the words of the prophet Joel, Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruning hooks into spears; let the weak say, I am a warrior. (Joel 3:9-10).

During the first year of the war, Mattathias died; he designated his middle son, Judah, as successor.

Nicknamed the hammer (Maccabee, in Hebrew), Judah constructed a superb intelligence network. He staged increasingly daring nighttime raids on the Seleucid outposts, then melted back into the countryside. His successes attracted several hundred men-at-arms. Unfortunately, the Maccabees werent tolerant; among their targets were Jews who carried out Greek religious rites. (1 Mac. 2:44; 2 Mac. 8:6).

As the Seleucids began losing control of the countryside, in 166 B.C., Governor Apollonius led a force of 2,000 men to crush the revolt. Rather than face the Seleucids on an open plain, Judah invented a strategy that was unknown to military tacticians of the era.

As the Seleucids marched through a narrow mountain pass, Judah divided the militia into four groups. Two groups sealed off the entrance and exit to the pass. The other two groups fell on the Seleucids from the hills, attacking their flanks. Unable to maneuver or amass force, the Seleucid army was wiped out.

Jews flocked to Judahs cause, accepting him as their national leader.

Antiochus appointed a new governor, Seron, who marched down from Syria in 165 B.C., following the wide-open coastal plain. The militia was terrified at the approach of the Seleucid army of 4,000. Judah spoke to his wavering men: It is not on the size of the army that victory in battle depends, but strength comes from Heaven. They come against us in great insolence and lawlessness to destroy us and our wives and our children, and to despoil us; but we fight for our lives and our laws. He himself will crush them before us; as for you, do not be afraid of them. (1 Mac. 3:17-22).

Approaching Jerusalem, Seron had to maneuver his army through a mountain pass at Beth-horon. Seron kept his forces widely separated, to avoid what had happened to Apollonius. Thus, the Israeli militia couldnt seal the Seleucids inside the pass. Instead, Judah Maccabee, brandishing the sword of Apollonius, led a surprise charge straight at the head of the Seleucid column and General Seron.

As the Seleucids in the rear pushed forward to meet the attack, the Jewish militia emerged from the hills on both sides above the Seleucids. After laying down a barrage of arrows and slingshot fire, the flanking attackers swept down the hills, swords in hand, for close-quarters combat. When Seron was killed and his vanguard unit destroyed, the rest of the Seleucid army panicked and fled west toward the Mediterranean Sea.

A furious Antiochus decided that the Jews would be eliminated, and sent 24,000 men. Preparing for battle, the Seleucids invited slave dealers to come with ready cash for captive Jews. (1 Mac. 3:35-36; 2 Mac. 8:11).

Although the Maccabean militia had grown to 6,000, it was still heavily outnumbered. The Seleucids planned a surprise night attack on the Jewish camp. But Judah abandoned the camp, leaving only 200 men as decoys. As the 200 withdrew into the hills, being sure to be noticed by the Seleucids, they lured many of the Seleucids deeper and deeper into the hills, the Seleucids mistakenly thinking that they were chasing the tail end of the whole Jewish militia.

The ruse allowed the bulk of the Jewish militia to hit the Seleucid camp, near the village of Emmaus. But the Seleucid camp still had a substantial force, which was formed into a phalanx on a plain near the camp, ready for battle. Instead of attacking head-on, the Jews concentrated on the flank of the phalanx, and it began to crumble under the fierce hand-to-hand assault from the Jews.

When the Seleucids who had been lured into the hills returned to camp, the found the camp in flames and the Hebrews in arms. The last portion of the Seleucid army collapsed and ran for the sea. Vast quantities of advanced Seleucid military equipment fell into Jewish hands.

Nothing was left of Seleucid control of Jewish areas, except for a garrison in Jerusalem. The force that began with Mattathias and his five sons now numbered 10,000 strong.

Syrian viceroy Lysias marched south from Antioch with 20,000 infantry and 4,000 cavalry. Six miles north of Hebron, near the Jewish fortress of Beth-zur, the Seleucids were moving through a mountain pass when the Jews descended on their flank. Quite soon, the Seleucids had lost 5,000 men and withdrew the remainder of their army.

Judahs forces advanced to Jerusalem and were attacked by the Seleucid garrison there. While that battle continued, a portion of the militia entered the city. The Temple had been horribly desecrated and the Hellenizers had scrawled profanities on it.

The Maccabees built a new altar. On the 25th of Kislev, in the year 164 B.C., they lit their one-day supply of oil in the Menorah. The oil burned for eight days. The eight days of Hanukkah celebrate that miracle, and the divine intervention that had led the Jewish militia to smashing victories over well-equipped standing armies far superior in numbers. The oil miracle doesnt appear in the books of Maccabees; it comes from rabbinic literature written during the diaspora.

The war went on for years, and the Jewish militia was nearly wiped out in 160 B.C.

But with the Seleucids under pressure from the Persians to the east and from the rising Roman republic to the west, the Seleucids became more accommodating toward Israeli autonomy. Israel formally declared independence in 143 or 142 B.C. The small Israeli state maintained its independence for about a century and was then absorbed into the Roman Empire.

The eternal light of Jewish freedom was never extinguished. Today, it shines brightly in the Middle Easts only democracy, and its example continues to inspire people of diverse faiths.

David Kopel is an associate policy analyst at the Cato Institute in Washington. His most recent book is The Morality of Self-Defense and Military Action: The Judeo-Christian Perspective.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.Sheep and goats have long represented right and left, respectively, based on a passage in the Bible. (Zahaoha/pixabay.com)

The True Origin of Left and Right

Commentary

In previous articles, Ive explained how we can achieve a better understanding of left and right. In the first instance, I focused on the way left and right are both subversively framed as left-wing ideologies that essentially stand for the same authoritarian might makes right values. In the second instance, I explained how collectivism and individualism are better ways to understand the political spectrum, albeit open to corruption and subversion in their own right.

In this article, I will explain the true origin of left and right, via an ancient system of spirituality.

False Origins

Before we can truly understand this, we must establish where the false origins of left and right come from. The answer to this question is the French Revolution.

When the French National Assembly was formed in its short-lived existence during 1789, supporters of the king and the religious order sat on the right, and radicals sat on the left. These radicals were made up of the Jacobins, who would usher in the Reign of Terror. In addition to the beheading of Louis XVI, the last king of France, this would result in the massacre of hundreds of thousands of people by guillotine.

Ever since, its been argued that this is where left and right originates, but this is a false dichotomy akin to what Ive previously described. One very important detail to bear in mind is that both sides of the French National Assembly were absolutists that stood for positive rights.

In other words, they saw no limits to power. Whether it was the right of the Assembly, who stood for the absolute authority of the monarchy, with the church as its guiding moral hand, or the Jacobins, who stood for a communal ideology that would become the foundation for communism, both groups did not stand for any kind of natural rights or limited government.

In the centuries that followed, this false dichotomy served absolutists well. It allowed them to manufacture a false dialecticbased on German philosopher Georg Hegels thought, which was later described as the triad of thesis, antithesis, and synthesisin which they push the momentum of history in their pre-prescribed direction, partly through revisionist history about the origins of left and right. This culminates in synthesis after synthesis that concentrates power into the hands of a shrinking cabal of absolutist rulers, working toward an ever-expanding oligarchy of supranational organizations.

Hence, nowhere in modern political discourse do we hear about restrictions to power via limited government or natural law. Only in the United States is this tradition barely being kept alive, as constitutionalists struggle to hold back the power of the state.

Let us not forget, however, that the roots of the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights emerged from a completely different struggle to the American Revolutionnamely, the English Civil War. It was through this battle for liberty that the 1689 Bill of Rights would come to be formed from the works of John Lockearguably the greatest natural rights philosopher in the last 300 years or so.

All this history is dismissed by those pretending that left and right originates with the French Revolution, as though the parliamentary struggle of England had no part to play.

A Spiritual Path

There is, however, a spiritual version of left and right that all others stem from. So ancient is this that it even appears in the Bible. Matthew 25:3233 states that Jesus will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.

Other parts of the Bible also describe how left and right relate to God, although Matthew 25 is perhaps the most revealing in this regard. As this chapter progresses to verse 41, it reads, Then he will say to those on his left, Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.

Some may be aware that the goat is a symbol of Satanism, and while there is no explicit Biblical reference to Satan sitting on the left side of God, the Bible does make it clear that Lucifer fell from Heaven in Isaiah 14:12, which states: How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!

Despite some theological disagreements over whether Lucifer and Satan are one and the same, both are theological manifestations of the same antithesis to God. Perhaps Lucifer and Satan share a similar antithetical oneness as God the Father and Son.

Whats more important than such debate, however, is how the left-hand side of God is associated with the characteristics of the goat. Due to its nature, this animal is notoriously difficult to tame, making it an archetypal symbol of rebellion. Hence, the left-hand path tradition stems from rebellion against God.

The true origin of left and right is, therefore, an ancient dynamic, wherein those on the right-hand path respect the objective morality attributed to God and natural laws.

Those on the left-hand path reject such limits, sometimes through outright rebellion. Others attempt to use the tradition of divine right to become higher than God, as they claim to be Gods representatives on earth. Both can be summarized by a combination of relativism and legalism that places human authority above God and natural lawalso known as might makes right.

Conversely, those on the right-hand path recognize free will and the personal responsibility that goes with this, placing God and natural law above human authority.

Theres a very good reason for why this ancient tradition is hidden from the masses, since freedom directly corresponds to the amount of morality we exhibit. When we believe that we can be laws unto ourselves, narcissism will enslave us all.

Cid Lazarou is a blogger, writer, and freelance journalist from the UK.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.Russian President Vladimir Putin (2nd R) and Chinese President Xi Jinping (2nd L) at the Kremlin in Moscow on July 4, 2017. (Mikhail Klimentiev/AFP/Getty Images)

Trump Predicts Talks With China, Russia on Arms Spending Cuts

President Donald Trump floated the idea that the United States, China, and Russia may come together to discuss collectively cutting back on weaponry investments.

I am certain that, at some time in the future, [Chinese] President Xi [Jinping] and I, together with President [Vladimir] Putin of Russia, will start talking about a meaningful halt to what has become a major and uncontrollable Arms Race, the president wrote in a Dec. 3 tweet. The U.S. spent 716 Billion Dollars this year. Crazy!

Trump has made it one of his priorities to increase military spending, convincing Congress to approve $700 billion last fiscal year and $716 billion this one. But he also hinted that his reasons had to do with countering the military buildup of China and Russia.

In March, he said one of his priorities for meeting with Putin was to discuss the arms race, which is getting out of control.

We will never allow anybody to have anything even close to what we have, he said.

After meeting Putin in Helsinki in July, Trump said, the reduction of nuclear weapons throughout the world was perhaps the most important issue  discussed.

No concrete agreement, however, came out of the talks.

Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty

Instead, Trump said hell quit the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty with Russia. The treaty doesnt allow participating countries to possess, produce, or flight-test a ground-launched cruise missile with a range of between 310 and 3,420 miles or to possess or produce launchers of such missiles.

The United States and the Soviet Union destroyed nearly 2,700 missiles by the treatys deadline in 1991.

But for five years, the United States has maintained that the Russian 9M729 missile violates the agreement, as its range exceeds 310 miles.

If they get smart and if others get smart and they say lets not develop these horrible nuclear weapons, I would be extremely happy with that, but as long as somebodys violating the agreement, were not going to be the only ones to adhere to it, Trump said in October.

Russia has denied the missile could strike that far. For our part, we are fully committed to the INF Treaty, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said in December.

Ryabkov also accused the United States of violating the treaty by deploying missile defense launchers in Europe, because they can be used to fire offensive missiles too.

However, theres another problem with the treaty.

Moscow contends that the treaty unfairly prevents it from possessing weapons that its neighbors, such as China, are developing and fielding, stated the Arms Control Association.

Russian Military

Russias military spending rose 50 percent between 2007 and 2017 to more than $66 billion, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), which provides independent evaluations of military spending.

Putin boasted in March about new Russian weapons, including the hypersonic aircraft missile Kinzhal (Dagger) capable of delivering nuclear and conventional warheads in a range of over 2,000 kilometers or over 1,420 miles at 10 times the speed of sound.

The missiles began their trial service at the airfields of the Southern Military District, he said, and will be able to overcome all existing and  prospective anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense systems.

Russia, however, has struggled to maintain its military expansion amid economic woes in recent years.

The defence budget is now around 10 percent lower than its 2015 peak and is expected to be reduced by a further 5 percent next year, said principal analyst at IHS Markit Craig Caffrey in December.

Russian military modernization will continue but the cuts are impacting the pace of that process.

Chinese Military

China, on the other hand, shows few signs of slowing. Its military expenditures more than tripled between 2007 and 2017, reaching over $228 billion, according to SIPRI. For 2018, China proposed another 8 percent hike.

Aside from building and militarizing artificial islands in the disputed waters of the South China Sea, China has been developing a hypersonic missile of its own capable of six times the speed of sound.

You want to talk about an existential threat? How about Chinas hypersonic glide missile, which  could take out an aircraft carrier before you could even blink? said Doug Wise, deputy director of the Defense Intelligence Agency and former CIA paramilitary and operations officer, The New Yorker reported in January. If the entire Pacific Fleet was at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, that would pose an existential threat.

A month later, the Director of National Intelligence report (pdf) stated that Both Russia and China continue to pursue antisatellite  weapons that probably will reach initial operational capability in the next few years.

In March, Trump announced the United States will form a sixth military branchthe Space Force.

Trump has been known to seek negotiations from a position of strength. His anticipation of U.S.ChinaRussia talks on reducing the arms buildup suggests hes leaving the door open for a diplomatic solution.

History teaches us that when you weaken your defenses, you invite aggression, Trump said during his signing of the Defense spending bill in December. The best way to prevent conflict is to be prepared, and really be prepared. Only when the good are strong will peace prevail.World leaders pose for the family picture during the opening day of Argentina G-20 Leaders' Summit 2018 at Costa Salguero in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on Nov. 30, 2018. (Daniel Jayo/Getty Images)

Trumps G-20 Win: World Trade Organization Reform

World leaders come around to Trump's view of WTO, drop condemnation of protectionism, call for monitoring debt obligations

BUENOS AIRES, ArgentinaLeaders of the worlds top economies agreed for the first time to reform the 23-year-old World Trade Organization (WTO), backing President Donald Trump who has repeatedly called the organization a disaster. In this and other measures, Trump came away from the high-profile meeting with a win.

At the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, leaders ended their two-day meeting on Dec. 1 with a communique that acknowledged that the world trade body needs fixing.

The [multilateral] system is currently falling short of its objectives and there is room for improvement, the statement said. We, therefore, support the necessary reform of the WTO to improve its functioning. We will review progress at our next Summit.

Trump earlier criticized the organization for its outdated rules, which have become dysfunctional in regulating global trade disputes.

The Trump administration has recently blocked the appointments of new judges to the WTOs Appellate Body, paralyzing the organizations dispute-settlement system. However, its not the first time the United States has made such a move. The Obama administration also blocked the reappointment of judges because of decisions with which Washington disagreed.

Trump had earlier threatened to withdraw the United States from the WTO, claiming it treats his country unfairly.

We lose the lawsuits, almost all of the lawsuits in the WTO, he claimed, during an interview with Fox News.

Trade Protectionism Language

The G-20 leaders also agreed for the first time to drop the standing pledge in the communique to fight trade protectionism, a U.S. demand. The language of opposing protectionism was a long-standing part of the previous summit statements. The G-20 countries had earlier declared that a responsibility to reject protectionism in all its forms was one of their core values.

China, meanwhile, managed to exclude the phrase unfair trade practices, language it had opposed at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in November over concerns it was singling out Beijing.

At the recent APEC summit in Papua New Guinea, leaders failed to agree on a joint statement for the first time in groups history due to the divisions over the trade language.

Monitoring Debt

The G-20 communique also addressed rising concerns with respect to financing practices, including infrastructure funding.

We call on the IMF and World Bank to work with borrowers and creditors to improve the recording, monitoring, and transparent reporting of public and private debt obligations, said the summit statement.

The Trump administration has been a vocal critic of Beijings ambitious international-development plan, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It has been particularly concerned at how the BRI is a debt trap for many emerging countries in Central and South Asia.

To connect Asia, Africa, and Europe, the BRI involves massive construction projects that are financed mainly through a wide range of Chinese local government and state-controlled institutions. Critics worry that China is using debtbook diplomacy to gain political and economic leverage over other nations or their silence on human-rights violations.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin earlier warned of the looming debt crises in the Asia-Pacific region and pointed the finger at China, calling it a non-transparent emerging sovereign creditor.

The G-20 leaders agreed to take steps to address such debt vulnerabilities in low-income countries.

We will work towards enhancing debt transparency and sustainability, and improving sustainable financing practices, said the statement.

Bilateral Talks

Trump, who made trade a central issue for his G-20 agenda, held bilateral meetings with key trading partners at the summit.

He attended the first trilateral meeting between the United States, Japan, and India. The leaders discussed strengthening the partnership and working towards realizing a free and open Indo-Pacific. The meeting was seen as a cooperation against China, since all three share concerns about Beijings rising power.

Trump also held a bilateral meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the sidelines of the summit to discuss trade, multilateral issues, and also fair trade and the World Trade Organization.

Trump had faced criticisms on his trade policy from European leaders including Merkel at this years Group of Seven summit held in Canada in June. The German leader mocked Trump by posting a photo on the internet staring down the U.S. president during a summit meeting, which turned into a diplomatic squabble.

However, Trump and Merkel had a different tone at the G-20. During the joint press conference, Trump called Merkel my friend, saying that both leaders had a great working relationship.

Weve made tremendous progress at the G-20 with many nations, Trump said.

In addition, Trump held a bilateral dinner meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, where both sides declared a trade truce. Xi agreed to make structural reforms within the next three months to address Washingtons long-standing concerns about the communist regimes unfair practices such as forced technology transfer, intellectual property theft, and non-tariff barriers.Australian University Cancelled Documentary Due to Chinese Consular Pressure, Documents Reveal

Documents obtained by The Australian reveal that Victoria University (VU) cancelled a film screening that was critical of the Chinese state-backed Confucius Institutes after the local Chinese Consulate sought feedback on the event.

According to the report, the cancellation occurred after concerns were raised by the Chinese consulate to the international director of VUs Confucius Institute, Professor Colin Clark.

In an email sent to the universitys facilities department on Sept. 7, Clark wrote, I would like to talk to you about a facilities booking from the public that will become a problem for us.

Three days later on Sept. 10, Clark received an email from Claire Wang, the Chinese director of Victoria Universitys Confucius Institute, with instructions on who to contact at the university, information detailing the interests of the Chinese Consulate in the event, and further details of the event. Wang is also a Chinese diplomat, according to The Australian.

Wang wrote, I have found out the room booking details for the Sept. 21 event at VU  I have called (the) room booking department as well. The General Consulate is awaiting our feedback on this.

Clark then emailed business operations manager Adrian Wong to ask, Can we discuss? Included in the email were instructions from Wang.

Hours later, Clark told facilities staff that he would make a formal communication to have the event stopped. The screening was cancelled the next day, Sept. 11.

An Unexpected Cancellation

Leigh Smith, organiser of the event, said that she got a phone call on Sept. 11, from the director of facilities, stating that her booking had been cancelled.

I got a phone call from the director of facilities, not the booking agent. I couldnt believe it, said Smith.

How could you cancel my booking? Its already paid for. Its only 10 days away from our screening, she said.

On inquiring whether another room was available, Smith was told that everything is booked. Its double booked, it was a mistake.

However, on the day of the screening, The Epoch Times discovered that four of the universitys theatres were emptyincluding the one that was originally booked.

VU later changed its explanation for cancelling the event, labelling the event as a marketing stunt because the film, In The Name of Confucius, was to be shown in the same building that has a Confucius Institute.

Event organiser, Leigh Smith, told The Australian, I knew Victoria University had a Confucius Institute, but I didnt know it was in that building  this is the first time Ive ever heard they thought it was a stunt.

Smith has previously hosted similar events at VU.

In an email, a spokesperson for VU said that the university was willing to facilitate another screening of the film as well as a discussion panel on the merits of Confucius Institutes but the organiser had withdrawn a request for a make-up screening.

When asked if this was true, Smith told The Epoch Times that VU had never contacted her with the offer of another lecture theatre or informed her of their willingness to appear on a panel.

VU Director of Facilities had not answered my two emails requesting clarity on the reasons and possible alternative times to screen the film, she said. I phoned the booking clerk, off the record, to discuss the reasons our booking was cancelled. I never rang back to attempt a booking.

Academic Freedom in Question

David Matas, an international human rights lawyer, who was scheduled to speak at the event, said that the cancellation highlights how the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) has political influence over institutions that host Confucius Institutes. This cancellation was a demonstration of the very point that were trying to make through this event, Matas said.

Paul Monk, former head of China analysis for Australias Defence Intelligence Organisation, told The Epoch Times on Dec. 4, that having educational curriculum set by Beijing, as in the case of Confucius Institutes, creates difficulties; difficulties in dealings with Beijing, in strategy, in macro economics and in discussions with human rights.

[T]oo many of our public intellectuals and academics, too many of our academic administrators, too many of our businesspeople dont want to even look at that problem, Monk added.

In cancelling the screening that was critical of Confucius Institutes, [t]he university abrogated its own autonomy and standards and it excluded freedom of speech discussion on a matter of sensitivity in a university, Monk said.

According to Dr. Feng Chongyi, associate professor in China Studies at Sydneys University of Technology, Confucius Institutes have created an institutional condition and political imperative for censorship, by the Chinese Regime and Australian university authorities.

Public ethics professor at Charles Sturt University in Canberra, Clive Hamilton, said that Western universities have a commitment to exposing the truth as they are supposed to be built on the principle of academic freedom.

Some universities, including Victoria University, have shown that money is more valuable to them than free speech. Those responsible for censoring free speech on the campus should be held to account.

This incident shows again how the hidden influence of the Chinese Communist Party has spread into all of Australias institutions, Hamilton said.A firefighter looks on as cars are burning during a "yellow vest" protest in Paris, on Dec. 1, 2018. (Alain Jocard/AFP/Getty Images)

Worst Unrest in France in Decades Exposes Deep Dissatisfaction Over Macrons Reforms

French President Emmanuel Macron has ordered his prime minister to hold talks with political leaders and protesters after riots turned central Paris into a battle zone.

The unrest began as a protest against rising fuel taxes, but has become the biggest challenge Macron has had to face as president, with the depth of anger over his financial reforms catching him off-guard.

On Dec. 1, violent protesters ran amok in Pariss wealthiest boroughs, smashing luxury homes and looting stores. Police arrested more than 400 people in Paris and fired about 10,000 tear gas canisters into the crowds; 133 people were injured in the riots.

TV footage showed a statue of Marianne, a symbol of the French Republic, that had been smashed.

Macron rushed back from the G-20 summit in Argentina to be met with an Arc de Triomphe graffitied, with slogans such as Macron resign, and The yellow vests will triumph.

The yellow vest rebellion erupted out of nowhere Nov. 17, with protesters blocking roads across France and impeding access to some shopping malls, fuel depots, and airports. It has since been infiltrated by violent groups from the far-left and far-right, according to French authorities.

And while they were initially protesting Macrons fuel tax increases, which he claims have been imposed to combat climate change, they have also exposed a deep dissatisfaction toward his economic reforms, which many feel favor the wealthy.

Government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux indicated the Macron administration had considered imposing a state of emergency. The president was open to dialogue, he said, but would not reverse policy reforms.

We wont change course. We are certain of that, he told Europe 1 radio.

Griveaux later told France Inter radio that the government needed to find a way to solve the deeper, structural problems of the past 30 years.

It will just start over six months down the line  That wouldnt be respectful of anyone, he said.

Protests Hit the Economy

The unrest hit the French economy, with hotel reservations down, retailers suffering, and some 75 Total filling stations running dry because they couldnt receive supplies.

The French presidency said in a statement Dec. 2 that Macron has asked security forces to prepare for future protests and that the prime minister should speak with political leaders and representatives of the protesters.

In the streets around the Arc de Triomphe, some Parisians worried the violence could be repeated for a third weekend.

The violence is increasing at an exponential rate, said Claude, a resident in the affluent 16th district. The state is losing control, it is scary. They cannot let this happen. Maybe the army should intervene.

Opposition leader Laurent Wauquiez, of the center-right Les Republicains, said the government had failed to understand the depth of public anger.

What we need are gestures that appease and these must be born out of the one decision every Frenchman is waiting for: scrapping [fuel] tax hikes, Wauquiez told reporters.

Despite the damage inflicted by the protests, public support for the yellow vests remains high, with seven out of 10 people backing them, according to an opinion poll conducted after the violence of Dec. 1.

Macons popularity, meanwhile, has been on the slide for a long while before the protests started.

Gael Sliman, president of the Odoxa polling institute, said Macron will lose whether he capitulates to the protesters, or takes a more heavy-handed approach.

In the second scenario, Macron will still come out the loser, because what everyone will remember is that he wrestled with the popular classes, Sliman said. He would be victorious, but at the cost of having crushed them.

Reuters contributed to this report.If all goes according to plan, The Juice Shop Kitchen & Juicery will be the next New York City-based eatery to start franchising in Fairfield County.

"It's something we have been thinking about for a few years now," said co-founder Eli Halali. "We are looking forward to the opportunity to bring our nutritious food and beverage offerings to guests in new markets, and Fairfield has a number of towns where we believe The Juice Shop will be received well.

"We will also benefit from the synergy created by Fairfield's close proximity to New York City," Halali added. "Many Fairfield County residents who work in New York City have reached out to us about how lucrative a Juice Shop would be in their town."

Established in 2014, The Juice Shop offers not only juices and smoothies  the latter of which can feature kale, spinach, chia and hemp seeds, and nutrient-rich spirulina  but also salads, toasts and bowls of the acai, kale and poke varieties.

"What separates us is the food," Halali said. "Where other juice-centric concepts look at food as an auxiliary category, we offer chef-driven items that are both healthy and delicious."

The firm has signed with Fransmart as its exclusive franchising partner to expand across the country. Fransmart is credited with helping to grow the likes of Five Guys Burgers & Fries, The Halal Guys and Qdoba Mexican Grill from their respective beginnings in Arlington, Virginia, Manhattan and Denver.

"At a time when healthy fast casuals are exploding, The Juice Shop hits on all of the moment's most sought-after items: salads, smoothies, acai bowls and fresh juices," said Fransmart President and CEO Dan Rowe.

"In addition to being attractive to consumers," Rowe continued, "The Juice Shop is ideal for franchisees looking for a concept that has over $1 million in average unit sales, average store size approximately 550-600 square feet, an inexpensive build out, lower cost conversions and higher franchisee returns on investment."

The franchise fee for The Juice Shop is $30,000. The minimum liquid capital to invest is $250,000 while the required minimum net worth is $500,000.

The concept operates six corporate-owned locations in New York City, including Brooklyn, and Short Hills, New Jersey.

Within Fairfield County, Halali identified Bridgeport, Danbury, Darien, Greenwich, New Canaan and Westport as focal points. "We would consider any town in Fairfield for The Juice Shop as long as the real estate and operator conform with our standards."

Halali declined to specify how many stores could ultimately open in the county, though he said he expects to begin announcing franchisees next year.

If and when it does set up here, The Juice Shop will be the latest Manhattan-based eatery to expand to the county. Mexicue, which started life as a food truck before evolving into a restaurant chain, opened its first Connecticut store in February at Stamford's Harbor Point, while the Mediterranean-themed Hummus & Pita Co. opened its first Connecticut location in Brookfield in August. Boulder, Colorado-based Rush Bowls, another chain promising nutritious fruit bowls and acai bowls, has reportedly been considering a move into the Nutmeg State, although no official announcements have been made.

Kevin Zimmerman is a reporter for the Fairfield County Business Journal. For more of his work and that of the journal, please visit westfaironline.com.Joseph Campbell is credited with impacting the lives of many people through his classic "hero's journey" model. My favorite example is how director George Lucas incorporated it into the journey of Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars saga.

Related: Get It Done: 35 Habits of the Most Productive People (Infographic)

But, what sometimes gets overlooked with Campbell is his belief in the invaluable component of time. Campbell insisted on living his life by integrating periods of deep reflection. He permitted himself to think creatively and did so by allowing the space and time in which to do so. He paused before taking action. He reflected before moving ahead. He often dreamed before doing.

What's the one thing that Campbell didn't have to deal with in the 1930s and 1940s when he cooked up the hero's journey?

Technology. In particular, Campbell lived in a time devoid of the constant interruption of high-tech wizardry. Culprits such as emails, texts, mobile phones and video calls were non-existent. He did not have to deal with the barrage of social media notifications from the likes of Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat or LinkedIn, either.

Advances in technology were supposed to save us time. In some cases, it is doing the exact opposite. It is becoming a burden. That encumbrance is having a harmful effect on people.

The American Psychological Association (APA), for example, indicated 53 percent of Americans work on the weekend, 52 percent work outside their designated work hours and 54 percent work when they are ill. Not surprisingly, the APA also reported that among employees who perform work while using their digital devices during time off, the overall stress level is 6 on a 10-point scale, the highest among all employee brackets.

Related: How to Manage Time With 10 Tips That Work

Research from William Becker of Virginia Tech also suggested the mere expectation of being available after hours through technology increases tension for employees as well as their family members. It doesn't matter if they engage with the technology or not; rather it's the mental strain knowing that it's there lurking in the background to be accessed easily.

Some countries are taking note. In France, a law enacted in 2016 known as "right to disconnect" ensures employees are aware when they are supposed to send or answer emails. (Hint: it's not after hours.) If an email gets sent outside their normal course of work, they are prohibited from addressing it. The Philippines and Italy passed similar laws in 2017. Canada is now mulling its own version after a year-long labor practice consultation process.

The consequences extend beyond employee well-being, too. British pest control services firm Rentokil Initial was ordered to pay a former employee nearly $70,000 after failing to adhere to the "right to disconnect" law.

Leaders would be wise to not only pay attention to an employee's use of technology after work hours but how they are using their time on the whole.

In the quest to "do more with less," employees at all levels are facing difficult choices with their management of time. Compounding matters are the sheer increases in digital correspondence. With so many communication methods and social media invasions, employees are gasping for respite more than ever.

Related: 4 Reliable Signs Someone Is About to Waste Your Time

The first and easiest step companies can take is to help employees recognize the difference between being focused and distracted. For example, focused individuals know better than to let web browser notifications or email client programs vie for their attention when writing a report, designing code or carrying out other laptop-based actions. Distracted employees have no idea that it's harming their performance. Employees require distraction training because they have no idea how harmful it is to their productivity.

Apple recently added a Screen Time feature to iOS. It monitors how people use the device, including how long they have spent on specific apps and even how many times they've accessed their iPhone in a given hour. While it's a step in the right direction, we need leaders to help employees see the critical importance of staying focused. We cannot delegate this need to another technology feature.

The second tack is to analyze how time is being spent on the whole. Perhaps there are too many meetings. Possibly there are too many direct messages, emails and texts. Maybe there is simply too much to do, with the accompanying habit of saying yes when we should be saying no. Once the analysis is complete, we need to find ways in which to block out time so better thinking and focused action can occur.

Joseph Campbell would no doubt agree. Indeed, the miscalculation of time and its effect on employees is a worrisome trend. It's time to ask ourselves if we are on a hero's journey of leadership or not.

Related:

Your Employees May Not Realize Their Habits Are Wasting Time. Here's How to Help Them.

How Artificial Intelligence Can Help You Better Manage Your Time

Why People Who Schedule Fewer Tasks Get More Done



Copyright 2018 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reservedThis editorial appears in Monday's Washington Post.

- - -

As Congress considers its reaction to the state-sponsored murder of Jamal Khashoggi, it's important to take into account that it was not an isolated act. The strangling and dismemberment of the journalist by a 15-member Saudi team form part of a pattern of brutal repression by the regime of King Salman and his highest-ranking son, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, that far exceeds that of previous rulers. Saudi Arabia, in turn, forms part of a quartet of Sunni Arab dictatorships, all allied with the United States, that have sought to eliminate all forms of dissent, including free media, independent civil society groups and anyone advocating liberal reforms.

The regimes, which include Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, as well as Saudi Arabia, don't hesitate to employ the most extreme methods to accomplish their aims, including mass arrests, torture, forced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. In doing so, they are repeating the mistakes of previous Arab dictators and storing up trouble for the future, in the form of alienated citizens and stagnant economies. In offering the regimes unqualified support, the Trump administration in turn is putting vital U.S. interests at risk.

One probable reason for the CIA's conclusion that Mohammed bin Salman was involved in the Khashoggi murder is the operation's resemblance to numerous others launched from the crown prince's court over the past 18 months. As The Washington Post's David Ignatius reported, a team of Saudi intelligence operatives working with close advisers to the crown prince have kidnapped a number of dissidents domestically and abroad. The detainees have been held in secret prisons and tortured. Among the victims are women's rights activists who advocated the right to drive and who remain imprisoned.

Mohammed bin Salman has taken cues from UAE ruler Mohammed bin Zayed, and the two dictators in turn have sponsored Egypt's Abdel Fatah al-Sissi and the ruling al-Khalifa family of Bahrain. The four countries joined in an ill-considered boycott of Qatar, and support the same factions in the civil wars of Yemen and Libya, helping to perpetuate the conflicts and, in Yemen, the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

While attention has been focused on the Khashoggi case, the Sissi regime has been stepping up its assault on what remains of civil society in Cairo. Since late October, dozens of human rights activists and lawyers have been arrested, including 19 on Nov. 1, according to reports by Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch. Many are being held incommunicado by security forces. Authorities are meanwhile demanding that all news websites register with the government or close down.

Bahrain staged a sham election last week from which opposition parties were excluded. The country's most prominent human rights activists are serving prison terms, as is the main opposition leader, who on Nov. 4 was sentenced to life in prison.

Just as it has abetted Mohammed bin Salman's effort to escape responsibility for Khashoggi's murder, the White House has tacitly backed the repression in Egypt and Bahrain, lifting restrictions on U.S. military aid and arms sales. The administration's policy supposes that the dictators can indefinitely maintain control over their restless populations by denying basic freedoms and assaulting anyone who advocates them. It's a strategy that ignores history, as well as fundamental U.S. values; unless checked by Congress, it's likely to produce more trouble in the Middle East.HIGHLAND  The New Switzerland Model Railroad Club based in Highland, Illinois is hosting a celebration for the anniversary of their annual train show.

Each year, the group puts on a Christmas train show which is open to the public. This year will the group celebrates the 30th-anniversary show.GLEN CARBON  This year will mark the 7th Annual Wreaths Across America Ceremony in Glen Carbon, sponsored by the Gen. George Rogers Clark Chapter of The Sons of the American Revolution.

This years theme for the annual wreath-laying ceremony is, Be Their Witness. The ceremony will honor military veterans buried in Glen Carbon Village Cemetery at West Guy and Center streets, beginning at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15 and is a rain-or-shine event.

Philip Bailey, the local Wreath Across America representative, wants residents and visitors to know that veterans from all American wars, from the Revolutionary War through todays conflicts, will be honored. Each wreath sponsorship costs $15 and Bailey hopes to place 75 wreaths in the cemetery. As of Monday, just one wreath has been sponsored.

Two Glen Carbon World War I veterans were killed in France and Bailey said a special guest would place wreaths at the Doughboy statues for Emil Trentaz and Harry G. Seaton.

There will be an opening prayer, the colors will be posted, volunteers will deliver short readings of military history for their veteran, wreaths will be placed, a flintlock rifle salute will sound, Taps will be played and the colors will be retrieved.

Event parking will be available in the Nickel Plate Trail parking lot near the construction of the new firehouse, and the Glen Carbon Senior Center will offer shuttle service.

Last year, more than 1.5 million wreaths were laid across the country, in more than 1,400 locations.

Volunteers who wish to sponsor a wreath or speak about their ancestor should call Philip Bailey at (618) 288-5551.

Wreaths Across America is a national organization that honors veterans across the country. Those who are interested in sponsoring a wreath in memory of someone should visit www.WreathsacrossAmerica.org to get more information and to make a donation.Korean Central Television(NEW YORK) -- Reporters in neon-colored suits walk and talk on camera, television programs feature flashy effects, and anchors deliver the news in a high-tech studio. It's not what viewers expect from KCTV, North Korea's state-owned broadcaster, but it seems the country's young leader has been pushing the outlet to find more modern ways to tell stories.



"The main motto of Kim Jong Uns new era is to catch up with the new century and its trends. We could say that change in direction has been reflected on to program productions," Kang Dong-wan, an expert in North Korean culture and a professor at Dong-A University in Seoul, told ABC News.



Of course, when it comes to political or economic news segments, the classic North Korean TV style prevails: anchors are uptight, authoritarian, and at times shout or even cry when delivering the news, just as they did for the deaths of the reclusive country's two previous leaders, Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il.



North Koreas most famous anchor, Ri Chun Hee, has been characterized by her melodramatic and vitriolic tone and has received high acclaim from the regime in the past. But the 75-year-old presenter has not been seen on North Korean TV for a while, and instead has been replaced by younger presenters.



But recently, the communist states drive for modernization -- led by a young leader in his 30s -- has produced a variety of programs that seem to have copied a somewhat Western style. The changes may also have to do with the fact that North Korean viewers have become more savvy, increasingly exposed to information from the outside world, including TV programs from South Korea.



That's meant that the old KCTV programming and top-down style of reading news "do not sink in anymore," Kang explained.



Programs featuring people



The most noticeable, although subtle, change in KCTV is that its storytelling methods increasingly revolve around people rather than ideology.



In the past, programs have been mostly about the achievements of the country's "great leaders" or focused on indoctrinating views to socialism by stressing the collective attitude required of loyal communist party members.



But recent programs have featured women in the dorms of a cosmetics factory, students showing off their new mobile phones, and the kitchen staff at a pizza restaurant.



To be sure, soundbites from these people still revolve around expressing their gratitude for their leader, but programs now feature many interviews with average citizens.



The rise of the on-camera reporter



KCTV programs have also begun to include a lot more field reporting and reporter engagement.



Previously, North Korean programs were produced only using voice-overs and reporters rarely appeared in front of the camera during a segment.



Even if they did so, their presence was rigid and authoritarian: they didn't smile and stuck to dark-colored suits or traditional hanbok dresses.



The videos themselves were shot very conventionally from the ground-level or above, with very little camera movement. Likewise, the editing style featured simple cuts with minimal effects.



But recent programs show reporters talking in a casual, conversational tone while wearing bright, modern clothes. The camera follows along as they walk and talk, and they used more hand gestures and facial expressions than before. One female reporter recently sported a fluorescent green, two-piece skirt suit and stilettos for her segment.



Editing-wise, North Korean programs now feature question-and-answer segments that show both the reporter and the interviewee in the traditional "two-shot." Reporters ask their questions on camera and even react to their subjects' answers with surprise, doubt, or compliments.



Viewers also get some behind-the-scenes looks at how the programs are made. A recent documentary entitled "The Best Cold Noodle Taste" included long clips of the television crew hopping in and out of their van in different locations, apparently an effort to exhibit a sense of in-the-field reporting. Some scenes in which the reporter chatted with locals were shot using a drone camera.



Dr. Lee Ju-cheol has conducted multiple studies on the Norths state television and now works at Korea Broadcasting Systems Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Center.



"Evidently, people working in their state broadcasting system must have had more opportunities to witness Western television programs," Lee told ABC News. "Efforts to make their programs seem less forced and more spontaneous are paying off."



High-tech studio



In September, North Korea showed off their high-tech new studio equipped with a digital control room, advanced lighting system and a teleprompter.



Shows now feature computer graphics in the background of the studio. A jubilant anchor in a recent cultural program introduced ways to stay healthy by proudly grabbing an apple from a virtual moving screen.



News reports are still pre-recorded, but there are visible efforts to give them a sense of "live" action.



Last September, a male anchor popped into the studio in the middle of a "live" show and awkwardly walked up to the anchor's desk and his puzzled colleague while waving a piece of paper. "This urgent news just came in!" he said before sitting down to read it.



These new experiments in storytelling are likely to continue, but KCTV will "no doubt remain an important tool for propaganda by the leadership," Lee said.

Copyright  2018, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.Missing Frenchman, 64, found alive and well, in Phang Nga

PHUKET: A 64-year-old Frenchman who became lost while riding across Phuket on motorbikes with his son yesterday has been found alive and well at a bungalow resort in Phang Nga.

Monday 3 December 2018, 03:52PM

Frenchman Jean Michel Paillereau, 64, has been found alive and well in Phang Nga. was Photos: Courtesy of the Karon Police

The Frenchman, Jean Michel Paillereau, was with his son riding to Thalang on separate motorbikes yesterday afternoon (Dec 2), explained Lt Col Prathuang Pholmana of the Karon Police, who received the initial missing person report via a mutual friend.

The son reported that he and his father had pulled up alongside each other at the Koh Kaew Intersection at about 3:30pm, but the son lost track of his father soon after that.

After Mr Paillereau failed to return to the Siri Phuket Hotel in Phuket Town, where they were staying, a relative of Mr Paillereau called a local friend, who called me to report him as missing, Col Prathuang explained.

Col Prathuang posted across social media a notice for anyone finding Mr Paillereau to the police colonel directly on his mobile phone.

At about midday today (Dec 3), staff at Pranee Beach Bungalows in Takuapa, Phang Nga, more than 130 kilometres away, called Col Prathuang to inform him that Mr Paillereau had checked in at the resort at 1:45pm.

And he is fine, Col Prathuang said.

So far no explanation has been given as to why Mr Paillereau failed to turn around despite riding his rented motorbike across the bridge off Phuket and several hours more before coming to a stop, or where Mr Paillereau had spent the night.Phuket readies for Fathers Day, King Bhumibols birthday

PHUKET: Preparations are underway for commemorating the birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, a day also long recognised in the country as Fathers Day, this Wednesday (Dec 5). The day is now recognised as Thailands National Day following the passing of King Bhumibol two years ago.

tourismculturealcoholpatongpolice

By The Phuket News

Monday 3 December 2018, 11:00AM

Norraphat Plodthong, Phuket Governor at the time, makes merit to honour the birthday of King Bhumibol last year. Photo: PR Dept

Merit-making ceremonies will begin at Phuket Provincial Hall at 7am and a candle-lit tribute-paying ceremony will be held at Phuket Rajabhat University at night.

A full program of events is expected to be announced by the Phuket office of the Public Relations Department soon.

Other events honouring King Bhumibol will be organised by local municipalities and businesses across the island.

Meanwhile, all government offices and the public are asked to honour the day by adorning their offices and homes with decorations in yellow, and posting yellow flags and the Thailand national flag.

The three-occasion public holiday will see government offices across Phuket close, including District Offices, local municipalities and Phuket Immigration.

The sale of alcohol on Dec 5 is traditionally allowed as the day is not one of the five religious days on which the sale of alcohol is banned by law (see story here).

However, Patong Police Chief Col Anotai Jindamanee today told The Phuket News, I cannot confirm whether or not the sale of alcohol will be banned as I have not received any order yet.

Traditionally, police do not interfere with the sale of alcohol unless the law bans it, but always ask drinkers to behave respectfully in order to honour the occasion.Why Jesus? He is the way and the truth and the life worth livingAs the era of General Motors as Oshawas economic engine draws to a close, local officials say it is critical to accelerate the further diversification of the economy in Durham Region, where retail jobs have traditionally paid much less than manufacturing work.

Optimists say the local economy has already become more diverse and resilient in response to the decades of decline in the automotive manufacturing sector since GMs heyday in the 1980s, when the Oshawa plant boasted more than 36,000 jobs.

But it will take a lot more than a diverse jobs base to revive a blue-collar community impaired by the sputtering auto sector, says labour market analyst Tom Zizys.

Durham has historically relied on two major industries  auto and nuclear power, Zizys said. There are different pockets of sectors that are starting to grow there, but I dont think theyve thought about what is a proper economic development strategy, linked to who lives in region.

With auto-sector wages outranking most of those in the retail sector, Zizys said the region will be hard-pressed to replace the incomes lost if the 2,500 full-time auto manufacturing jobs that GM is shedding never come back.

Statistic Canada says Oshawa residents who worked full-time in motor vehicle manufacturing in 2016 had an average income of $80,757, compared to the $47,824 for their neighbours who worked in retail.

Read more:

General Motors leaves Canada wondering what comes next

Spending on provincial retraining program offered to GM workers has declined sharply

How a Quebec factory town transformed itself after a GM closure in 2002

And with the GM layoffs looming, competition will be stiff for a limited number of full-time positions in other fields.

You cant easily switch people, he said. When theres a major layoff, particularly in something like manufacturing, those individuals have a hard time transitioning. Theyre probably going to have to take a step back.

Zizys said Durham Region lacks the diverse basket of good-paying jobs needed to shoulder the burden of 2,500 job cuts, not to mention the jobs that will be affected further down the supply chain by the GM shutdown.

A report commissioned by Unifor on the impact of closing the Oshawa plant found that if 4,100 jobs had been lost there in 2015, it would have translated into a loss of $436 million in labour income. The study pegged the total compensation, in wages and benefits, for an auto assembly worker at $101,257.

I dont think Durham has diversified as much as people might say, Zizys said. You can have job growth in other areas, but it doesnt mean that those people who a laid-off are going to be able to take advantage of growth thats happening somewhere else. Thats the critical issue.

John Henry, the outgoing Oshawa mayor and incoming chair of Durham Region, says significant strides have been made to spread employment across other sectors. Weve had a reduction in manufacturing, but at the same time weve been able to diversify our economy and increase the other numbers, he said.

Henry points to growing employers like Lakeridge Health, nuclear power generation facilities outside of Oshawa, and post-secondary institutions.

Weve got a lot of really good things going on right now, he said. We were halfway up the mountain until the (GM) announcement.

Now, with the GM deadline looming, Weve got a year to start to prepare how were going to deal with this, he said.

Henry remains hopeful that Oshawas fortunes could change if GM someday opts to build one of its next generation of vehicles at the plant. Maybe they will find that product, he said.

But meanwhile, when those jobs are gone, theyre gone, and thats still going to hurt us.

Heather McMillans survived what many are now dreading. She lost her job at the Lear Seating auto parts plant 11 years ago, when GM shed 1,200 jobs at its Oshawa truck plant. About 350 people were laid off when her plant closed.

McMillan, who is now executive director of the Durham Workforce Authority, says that was a very different time. In 2007, unemployment in the area hovered at 18 per cent as workers in many sectors were losing their jobs due to the global economic recession. The unemployment rate now sits at about six per cent.

Since the 2007 economic downtown, the Durham Region labour market as diversified, McMillan said. In that intervening time, weve seen the expansion of our post-secondary institutions and that has brought other kinds of businesses here. There has also been an expansion on the retail trades sector.

Down the highway, Oshawas challenge is a sobering reminder for communities like Cambridge, Oakville and Alliston, which also depend on automotive industries.

New Tecumseth Mayor Rick Milne said Hondas workforce at the Alliston plant now exceeds 4,000 employees, making it the largest employer in Simcoe County. And thats not counting the automotive feeder plants throughout the region.

If something like what happened in Oshawa happened here, it would be a disaster, Milne said. It would affect, I would imagine, about 8,000 people directly.

Doug Craig, the outgoing mayor of Cambridge, hopes Toyotas $1.4 billion investment on retooling its Cambridge and Woodstock facilities will serve as an indefinite lifeline for the companys operation in his municipality. The two plants employ about 8,000 people, approximately 6,500 of them in Cambridge.

Im feeling relatively safe about Toyota in Cambridge, Craig said. We are thriving here.

But if Toyota was to be plucked from his community? It would probably be a worse effect than what the residents of Oshawa are going through with GM, Craig said.

Oshawas ordeal is having a chilling effect across the province, says Oakville Mayor Rob Burton. He said the local Ford plants 4,600 jobs makes it his communitys biggest employer.

And while he says the president of Ford Canada has assured me in no uncertain terms that this plant has a long and steady future ahead of it, Burton concedes that no promise is ironclad.

Its a big world full of uncertainty and stuff happens, he said. Im not sure if we ever get very many guarantees in life.

It looks as if you appreciate our journalism. Our reporting changes lives, connects communities and effects change. But good journalism is expensive to produce, and advertiser revenue throughout the media industry is falling and unable to carry the cost. That means we need you, our readers. We need your help. If you appreciate deep local reporting, powerful investigations and reliable, responsible information, we hope you will support us through a subscription. Please click here to subscribe.

Read more about:By this time, Jason Fisher expected the new warehouse hes renting for his Junction-area brew pub Indie Ale House to be a hive of activity, with tanks and other brewing equipment for a long-planned expansion starting to arrive.

Instead, the giant room  at an off-site warehouse in Etobicoke  sits empty and mostly quiet. And Fisher has an $800,000 problem on his hands.

Along with hundreds of other craft brewers across North America, Fisher was stunned to hear the news that DME, a P.E.I.-based equipment manufacturer with facilities in B.C. and South Carolina, was in receivership, with more than $18 million owed to RBC and an unspecified amount to other creditors, including the companys own 250 employees. The companys directors have all resigned, and a B.C.-based receiver has been appointed to explore either a liquidation or sale of the company, with offers due by Jan. 7.

It was shocking. I just couldnt believe it, said Fisher. Ill survive. But some places wont.

According to court filings, DME has built equipment for more than 1,600 breweries in 70 countries. At the Ontario Craft Brewers conference in early November, there was a DME sales booth, extolling the virtues of the companys products.

DME, which was founded in 1991, was taken over by Toronto-based venture capital firm Clearspring Capital in 2015, with founder Peter Toombs having a minority stake. The following year, DME bought Abbotsford, B.C.-based NSI-Newlands. While DME had specialized in high-quality but off-the-shelf brewery systems, Newlands did higher-end custom systems. The two names survived as separate brands within the merged company.

Since the merger, according to court papers filed in P.E.I. on behalf of RBC, a downturn in business, combined with low-priced competition, particularly from China, hurt the bottom line. Without an infusion of $5 million, a restructuring wouldnt have been possible.

Neither the bank nor Clearspring would supply the extra cash.

An RBC spokesperson declined to comment on the grounds of client privacy. But in court papers, the bank said it had bent over backwards trying to help DME.

RBC has been patient and accommodating in all respects, said the affidavit by RBCs Gary Ivany.

Neither Clearspring, Toombs, nor Newlands founder Brad McQuhae would comment to the Star. (McQuhae and DME are also still involved in a legal dispute over the price paid for Newlands.)

For his expansion, Fisher opted for a brand new Newlands system. He paid DME in advance for stainless steel tanks and kettles, grain mills to grind malt and some pipes. Some of the equipment has been finished and is sitting in a DME warehouse or on the factory floor. Some of it hasnt been started.

There are so many things that you have to worry about when youre running a business. But Newlands wasnt even on the list. A company that was two successful, profitable businesses two years ago, and was backed by a big VC firm? I never even imagined it, said Fisher, whos concerned whether hell ever see his equipment or money.

Its a similar concern for Max Meighen, whose brew pub Avling on Queen St. E., had been set to open in February. Meighen, too, was worried when he heard about DMEs financial woes.

Weve bought and paid for it. As a courtesy, they were storing it for us until we had a place to put it, said Meighen, whos still hoping hell see his equipment.

That depends, according to bankruptcy lawyer Alex Ilchenko, head of the insolvency practice at Mississauga-based law firm Pallett Valo. Ilchenko is not involved with the DME filing.

It really depends on how their contracts were written and whether they can prove they paid for it. If there are emails or bank records, that will help, said Ilchenko.

It might be harder for people who have deposits, but whose equipment still hasnt been built, unless theres a buyer for the whole company  en bloc in legal language.

The best case scenario is if someone buys it en bloc and runs it as an ongoing concern, said Ilchenko.

And the worst case? Could those deposits be gone?

There is that potential, yes, Ilchenko said.

Breweries who never had their equipment delivered  or whose equipment was simply never built  have been trying to find alternative suppliers.

Weve certainly gotten some requests, some of them more urgent than others. Were doing what we can, said Jessica Criveller, operations manager at Niagara Falls, Ont.-based Criveller Co.

Crivellers company supplies brewers, wineries and even olive oil producers with large stainless steel tanks and other parts.

Theyd gladly take on new customers. Still, given DMEs size, theres a limit to what smaller companies can do.

Were taking on the business that we can handle, said Criveller, who estimated her company is roughly a third the size of DME.

As for Fisher, the expansion plans might be delayed, but he says his brewery will survive. Others might not be so lucky. And that makes Fisher as bitter as one of the hoppy Instigator IPAs he serves at Indie.

RBC made $12 billion in profits this year. But theyll still get some of their money out of this situation. The workers might end up getting some government help. The auto industry might get some help. But small businesses like mine? Well get nothing, said Fisher.The forum for the worlds biggest economic powers will endure, for now. But its most vocal champions had to swallow their pride to save it.

The annual meeting of Group of 20 leaders ended Saturday in Buenos Aires with a watered-down joint statement. The summit itself was overshadowed by sideline events, such as a U.S.-China truce on trade, and reflected deep divisions in a bloc founded to steer the global economy and foster a co-operative era of growth.

Now it seems they cant agree on much. The lack of appetite for collective action saw tricky issues relegated to hallway chats and one-on-one meetings between leaders. On some hot-button topics, a message was sent by simply avoiding talking to another leader entirely. It raised a question  amid rising isolationism and authoritarianism, leaders manoeuvring around each other in the hallways may be where the G20s work increasingly lies.

The populism sweeping many parts of the globe is showing up in a more transactional brand of diplomacy. The G20 has traditionally focused on growth and economic issues. But brushing off, or simply ignoring, the main issues of the day risks being seen as tone-deaf as the world watches.

Not a failure

There was, for example, no official mention of the renewed standoff in Ukraine, although Russias Vladimir Putin said he talked with U.S. President Donald Trump about it on the sidelines. Also not publicly discussed: famine in the aftermath of the conflict in Yemen or the brutal killing of Jamal Khashoggi, while Russian and Saudi leaders were, at most, gently scolded.

All the other ones have been more successful, said John Kirton, who leads the University of Torontos G20 Research Group, comparing the Buenos Aires summit to previous G20 gatherings by leaders. But its not a failure.

Read more:

U.S. goes its own way on climate at G20 summit

Trudeau demands Vladimir Putin release imprisoned Ukrainian sailors at G20

Saudi Prince finds both friends and disapproval at G20 summit

A sense of paradox hung in the air in Buenos Aires, as bureaucrats struggled to accomplish their primary task  the drafting of the summits communique  under a cloud of geopolitical uncertainty playing out in real time. Some doubted there would be a joint communique, or that they even wanted to write one.

Western leaders and G20 stalwarts, like German Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Emmanuel Macron of France, were left a choice: double down on their more inclusive form of politics and risk triggering another diplomatic collapse, after recent summit failures, or find what little common ground they could with skeptics. They chose the latter, and the statement was held up as better than nothing  a victory in itself.

Coordination and consensus

The reality is difficult, and that is why we need to push dialogue, said Argentine President Mauricio Macri, the host leader whose task it was to keep it all together. Its a moment of a lot of global tensions, and we can say we have reached a great level of coordination and consensus.

The two-day summits significant moments came mostly on the sidelines. They included a dinner between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping that saw them agree to a 90 day ceasefire in their trade war; leaders discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman over the slaying of Khashoggi; and the U.K.s Theresa Mays push to shepherd through her Brexit deal.

G20 leaders give nod to Trump in watered-down trade language

One of the summits iconic images was that of Prince Mohammed clasping hands heartily with Putin before they sat next to each other  a pair of leaders whose brazen interventions have tested how far their counterparts are willing to intervene.

In a nod to Trump, the G20 communique omitted for the first time a reference to the risk of protectionism, while leaders agreed that multilateral trade was falling short of its objectives and there is room for improvement. They agreed to continue a push for World Trade Organization reform, which will come up again at the next meeting. The document also noted Trumps exit from the Paris climate agreement.

One official involved in the talks said trade language wasnt the final hurdle, and that several countries had already resigned themselves to abandoning a reference to fighting protectionism.

Kirton said the communique nonetheless had welcome developments, like commitments on gender equality, the International Monetary Fund, and to take note of a recent U.S. government report warning of the devastating effects of climate change. This summit has always stuck to economic issues over political ones, he said. The G20 is not the G-7.

Need for change

Some argued the results were simply a reflection of the reality that rules and practices on trade need to change from what was agreed on decades ago in the aftermath of World War Two, when the global economy looked quite different.

If we disagree on international trade, these differences should be codified in revised rules, said Marcello Estevao, Brazils deputy finance minister. From my point of view, thats a victory for multilateralism.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whose country is already spurring talks on WTO reform while championing liberalism, rejected any suggestion of defeat. He used the summits sidelines to speak with Prince Mohammed, with whom hes been sparring since before Khashoggis death, and Putin, whose seizure of Ukrainian warships prompted Canada to release a G7 statement in the middle of the G20, yet another sign of fracture.

Trudeau defended the G20, saying it has has repeatedly demonstrated its worth. But he also hinted at its evolving role from a forum for consensus into something closer to bilateral speed-dating.

The G20 context is exactly a context where we can have these direct conversations amongst leaders, he said. I continue to believe that conversations, frank and direct conversations between leaders, is better than not talking.

With assistance from Shawn Donnan and Jorgelina do Rosario.

Read more about:Albertas announcement that it will cut oil production next year to bolster prices sent crude soaring and boosted shares of Canadian producers.

The unprecedented move by the countrys largest oil-producing province is aimed at easing the crisis in the nations energy industry. The plan announced on Sunday will lower production of raw crude and bitumen from Alberta by 325,000 barrels a day, or 8.7 per cent, from January until excess oil in storage is drawn down. The reduction would then drop to 95,000 barrels a day until the end of next year at the latest.

The discount of Western Canadian Select crude to U.S. benchmark West Texas Intermediate oil narrowed $9.25 (U.S.) to $19.75 a barrel as of 10:11 a.m. New York time Monday, the tightest its been since July, data compiled by Bloomberg showed. WTI itself climbed as much as 5.7 percent, the biggest intraday gain since June, to $53.85 a barrel. Shares of oil producers operating in Alberta also surged, while there were declines for refining companies who had benefited from supplies of cheap crude.

The planned cuts by the worlds fifth-biggest producer follows a renewed commitment over the weekend by Saudi Arabia and Russia to extend their deal to manage the oil market. Global prices crashed last month by the most in more than a decade, a plunge that battered producers in Alberta in particular amid surging oil-sands output, a shortage of pipeline space and heavy U.S. refinery maintenance.

Alberta Premier Rachel Notley is following the advice of producers like Cenovus Energy Inc. and Canadian Natural Resources Ltd., which have been hammered by record low prices for heavy Canadian crude, which at one point were $50 a barrel less than U.S. grades. The crisis has caused some producers to reduce production on their own, slash dividends and delay next years drilling plans.

Every Albertan owns the energy resources in the ground, and we have a duty to defend those resources, Notley said in a statement. But right now, theyre being sold for pennies on the dollar. We must act immediately, and we must do it together.

Read more:

Alberta to cut oil production, Premier Rachel Notley says

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Alberta orders 8.7 per cent oil production cut to help deal with low prices

The amount being cut is more than the total production of each of OPECs three smallest members: Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and the Republic of Congo.

The curtailment plan, which will apply to both oil-sands and conventional producers, should narrow the discount between Western Canada Select and U.S. benchmark oil by at least $4 a barrel and add an estimated C$1.1 billion ($840 million) in government revenue in the fiscal year starting April 2019, according to the statement.

The measure could be removed earlier than the end of 2019, based on market conditions, the government said. The province expects the 325,000-barrel-a-day reduction to be in place for the first three months, while storage is drawn down to historical levels. After that, the government will work to match capacity with production. Further reductions in the curtailment are expected in the fall and winter as additional rail capacity comes online.

Devon Energy Corp., a U.S. oil company with a presence in Alberta, rose as much as 4.7 per cent in pre-market trading in New York; Calgary-based Cenovus climbed 5.4 per cent; Canadian Natural Resources gained 4.4 per cent.

Save jobs

The action is designed to prevent job cuts by letting companies keep people on because they can see a light at the end of the tunnel, Notley said at a news conference. Small producer Whitecap Resources Inc. now doesnt plan to cut any jobs as a result of the Alberta plan, Chief Executive Officer Grant Fagerheim said in an interview.

Government intervention is never the preferred route, but because of the crisis thats taken place in Alberta and Canada, we can understand that this is the route taken, Fagerheim said. His company will have to cut about 350 barrels a day from its current level of 14,000.

To protect smaller drillers, the first 10,000 barrels of a producers output will be exempted from the cut. Each companys level of curtailment will be based on six months of its highest level of production over the past 12 months, according to the statement. The province expects the curtailment to affect about 25 producers.

Historical move

The plan marks the first time the provincial government has ordered a production cut since the 1980s, and that previous move was meant to protest federal energy policies, not solely to boost prices.

A chorus of companies, investors and industry leaders has rallied to the idea in recent weeks, saying that no other measure could help work down the glut of oil backed up in storage as quickly. Even Notleys main political rival  United Conservative Party Leader Jason Kenney  has called for a curtailment.

About the only dissenting voice has come from Canadas integrated oil companies, whose refineries have been benefiting from the cheaper feedstock. Suncor Energy Inc., a Canadian oil producer that also has refineries in the country, said in a statement Monday that price differentials were already narrowing.

Suncor believes the market is the most effective means to balance supply and demand and normalize differentials, it said.

Notley has already taken some steps to try to help producers ship more oil to market while the industry awaits the construction of more pipelines.

Last week, she announced a plan to buy rail cars to help ship an additional 120,000 barrels of crude a day, increasing already-record levels of crude shipped by train by more than 30 per cent. That plan entails running two additional trains a day, each pulling 100 to 120 cars. The system would require a total of about 80 locomotives and more than 7,000 cars.

However, it was Notleys assurances that a decision on curtailing output was coming soon that helped boost heavy Canadian crude prices by 49 per cent last week.

Even after that gain, Western Canada Select crude was trading for $29 a barrel less than U.S. benchmarks. WCS closed at $13.46 a barrel earlier this month, the lowest on record in Bloomberg data stretching back to 2008. The grades discount to U.S. benchmark oil prices widened to $50 a barrel last month, also a record.

Read more about:BEIJINGAfter the negotiations over steak dinners were done, after he said his goodbyes to President Xi Jinping of China and after both governments issued their public statements about the trade truce between the United States and China, President Donald Trump had one more surprise to drop.

In a late-night Twitter post Sunday, Trump said that China had agreed to make a small but politically significant concession to the United States: It would drop tariffs on imports of U.S.-made cars.

China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S., he wrote. Currently the tariff is 40%.

The disclosure took trade watchers and auto industry figures in both countries by surprise. The issue of auto tariffs had not appeared in the public disclosures from either the U.S. or Chinese governments issued after the two sides hammered out their temporary trade-war truce.

It was unclear what China had agreed to do, if it had agreed to do anything at all. A spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry referred questions to the Commerce Ministry. That ministry was silent, and its weekly news conference is not until Thursday. U.S. officials were unavailable for comment.

The confusion is perhaps inevitable. Chinese leaders hoard information as a way of bolstering their political power. Add to that Trumps predilection for trying to summarize complex issues in Twitter posts of a few words, and the potential for confusion can grow quickly.

Read more:

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China promises retaliation if Trump imposes more tariffs

China does not import many cars from the United States. U.S. imports represent roughly 1 per cent of the market, or about $10.5 billion (U.S.) worth. While Chinese drivers love to buy Chevrolets and Fords, those vehicles are generally made in Chinese factories through joint ventures between local and U.S. carmakers.

A concession on auto tariffs could be significant, however. It could suggest that China is willing to bend on the issue of Chinese-made cars, an area of great concern for the White House. The Trump administration worries that China could someday swamp U.S. car lots with Chinese-made cars that could seriously damage the Detroit automakers.

Trump targeted Chinese-made cars when he issued his first tariffs on $50 billion in Chinese-made goods, marking the opening salvo of the trade war. China retaliated by raising tariffs on U.S.-made cars to 40 per cent, compared with 15 per cent on cars from everywhere else.

Still, it was far from clear that was the case, and industry experts said the presidents Twitter post seemed to leave open a variety of interpretations.

One possibility is that Trump was mistakenly referring to Chinas move this summer to reduce tariffs on auto imports from everywhere to 15 per cent from 25 per cent. Chinas retaliatory tariffs brought the rate on U.S.-made cars up to 40 per cent.

Another possibility is that a deal on cars was part of a larger agreement alluded to in vague statements the United States issued Saturday night, when the truce was first announced. The Trump administration said China had agreed to purchase agricultural, energy, industrial, and other product from the United States. As a practical matter, China would have to lower its tariffs on U.S.-made goods or those purchases would be more expensive.

But that would be politically sensitive in China because the Buenos Aires accord allows the United States to keep its tariffs on $250 billion in Chinese-made goods, though Washington agreed to postpone a Jan. 1 increase in tariff rates.

If cuts in tariffs on U.S.-made cars are in the works, the biggest beneficiaries are likely to be German. BMW and Mercedes both produce SUVs in the United States and export them all over the world, including a combined total of roughly 180,000 a year to China. That is still a tiny share of Chinas auto market, which reached 24.7 million cars sold last year.

U.S. brands in China usually have a local flavor. General Motors ships almost no U.S.-built vehicles to China. Fiat Chrysler ships some Jeep Grand Cherokees but has a huge new factory in southern China to build most other Jeeps. Ford ships a few Lincolns but is in the process of shifting production of these models for the Chinese market to factories in China. Tesla ships electric cars to China from the United States but is preparing to build its own factory in Shanghai.

Any reduction in tariffs is very good news for some niche products, said Yale Zhang, managing director of Automotive Foresight, a Shanghai consulting firm. The international giants have already localized most of their mass production cars.

Read more about:Qatar announced Monday that it will withdraw from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries in January, as the Persian Gulf state continues to face a prolonged regional clash with rival Saudi Arabia.

The move comes amid a more than yearlong feud between Qatar and its neighbours. Led by Saudi Arabia, a coalition of Arab Gulf states broke off relations with Qatar and imposed an economic blockade, accusing the government of sponsoring Iranian terrorism. But Qatar said its withdrawal from OPEC is unrelated to the politics clash, Reuters reported.

Compared to Saudi Arabia, which produces 11 million barrels of oil per day, Qatars output is just 600,000. But Qatars exit will end what was a 57 years-long membership with OPEC, and will mark the first withdrawal of a Middle Eastern country from the organization.

Qatars energy minister Saad Sherida al-Kaabi said in a news conference Monday the nation is leaving the oil cartel to focus on plans to boost its natural gas production by more than 40 per cent in the coming years. In a series of tweets quoting al-Kaabi, the countrys state oil company said it plans to develop and increase natural gas output from 77 million tons per year to 110 million. Achieving our ambitious growth strategy will undoubtedly require focused efforts, commitment and dedication to maintain and strengthen Qatars position as the leading natural gas producer, al-Kaabi said.

Qatar is already the worlds largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, and according to The Associated Press, al-Kaabi said the nation also wants to increase its oil production.

The regional boycott has drawn in the United States. But President Trump has issued conflicting statements about Qatar. He first endorsed the allegations that the country is a sponsor of terrorism last year but later called Qatari Emir Tamim Bin Hamad al-Thani a great friend when he visited Washington in April. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has urged Persian Gulf leaders to resolve the conflict, emphasizing their shared aim in confronting Iran, a primary foreign policy goal for the Trump administration.

In recent months, American drivers have felt the affect of rising gas prices, with Trump attacking OPEC throughout the year for limiting production. He has long pressured OPEC to lower oil prices, and has used Twitter to criticize the organization. After peaking in October at $113 per barrel, Benchmark Brent crude is trading at more than $80. OPEC did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The groups members are scheduled to meet later this week to discuss potential cuts in production.

Read more about:So thats done.

Fridays dreary photo op of outgoing Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto signing the USMCA/CUSMA trade deal alongside U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau played precisely as predicted. The only excitement in Buenos Aires may have been the snapping, growling hounds caught in the frame as Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland responded, streetside, to reporters questions after the signing. Ever sanguine, the minister took a pause until the dogs were reined in by their owners and calm was restored.

There was, in fact, nothing to suggest a divergence from the run of events I wrote about two weeks ago.

With the inauguration of Andres Manual Lopez Obrador slated for Dec. 1., the deal demanded signing no later than Friday. Two take-aways from the moment itself: President Trump takes some considerable time to get his signature down. And he appears to favour the sort of fat black marker that celebrities use to sign glossy photographs.

In matters of significance, the Democrats are rolling out their promised legislative agenda, made real on Friday with the confirmation that the first order of business when they take control of the House in January will be, as Rep. John Sarbanes (D-Md.) phrased it, a push back on the influence of big money. Sarbanes had earlier co-authored an op-ed in the Washington Post with speaker-in-waiting Nancy Pelosi that broadly outlined what will be a big bill. Campaign finance reform would require political organizations to disclose their donors and would shut down the shell-game of big-money donations to Super PACs. The oversight authority of the Office of Government Ethics would be revamped. Conflict of interest laws would be expanded. And more.

In a video released by his staff last week, Sarbanes summed up the bill as a means to get the people back into their own democracy.

There wasnt anything to suggest that the Democrats, come the new year, will veer from their other legislative priorities, which include lowering the cost of health care and passing the Equality Act amendment to the Civil Rights Act.

So what about USMCA/CUSMA/WHATEVER?

Following a news conference Friday, Pelosi was asked how she saw the trade deal playing out in the new House in the new year. The, the trade agreement formerly known as Prince  no, I mean, formerly known...as NAFTA is a work in progress, she replied brightly. There was laughter in the room.

But seriously. We are admiring of the trade representative and the attempt he has made to make sure that we are aware of what is in it, Pelosi went on to say. But what isnt in it yet is enough enforcement reassurance, as regarding workers, provisions that relate to workers and to the environment. There also has not been a law passed in Mexico in terms of wages and working conditions in Mexico. So when all of that happens, people will make a judgment about whether they will be supporting it.

What was absent was any talk to push urgently the new version of the free trade deal beyond the ceremonial signing.

On the contrary, tweaking the deal, at a minimum, remains the more obvious course. Unhappily for Trump theres a growing chorus of voices disenchanted with the deal.

On Friday, Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) tweeted that the deal allows Mexico to dump government subsidized produce on the U.S. market. Going forward America will depend on Mexico for our winter vegetables. Unacceptable.

Pelosi hasnt veered from the accurate party line that the environmental and labour chapters in the new deal remain flaccid and inadequate. Mexico has just four weeks to pass legislation enshrining such basic labour rights as the right of collective bargaining and the prohibition of employer interference in union activities, a practise for which Mexico is renowned. What the new NAFTA fails to enshrine is tough enough enforcement provisions once those laws are in place. Thats a point that has been repeatedly emphasized by Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY), who has been fighting for improved labour laws in Mexico alongside a better deal for his beloved dairy farmers in his home state.

Some see the opposition by the Democrats as playing politics. A deeper read allows that the old NAFTA failed abysmally in the areas of labour and the environment. Failing to achieve a gold standard now will be this generations failure to protect those who come after.

Or at least that was the focus two weeks ago.

Now its more complicated. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Ma.) warned that the refreshed NAFTA wont stop outsourcing, it wont raise wages, and it wont create jobs. The rebuke was particularly stinging during a week when General Motors workers in the U.S. faced job losses against the automakers trumpeting of its operations in Silao, Mexico. The chorus of concern over that dynamic will only grow.

President Trump, who appeared quite dour at the moment of signing  could he have been preoccupied?  predicted smooth sailing ahead. I look forward to working with members of Congress and the USMCA partners....I dont expect to have very much of a problem.

Thats increasingly unlikely to be the case.

Read more about:Ford Motor Co. wont be closing plants in Canada, as General Motors Co. announced last week that it will do in Oshawa, Maryland, Ohio and Michigan.

Ford was earlier than GM to see the current shift in consumer sentiment away from sedans to SUVs and light trucks, which caught GM with far too much car-making capacity.

GM is just starting on a massive overhaul of its North American factory network to rid itself of over-capacity in cars  closing some plants, and retooling others to make SUVs and pickups.

But Ford is several years along in that process, and wont be cutting its workforce. Fords prescience in detecting the looming market changes enabled it to reassign its workforce to strong-selling vehicles, rather than lay off employees.

The Ford transformation echoes its 2000s foresight in borrowing billions of dollars ahead of the Wall Street meltdown to finance a refreshed model line in time for the next market upturn.

There are two takeaways from the above.

One is that GM, worlds third-largest automaker, hasnt learned from the mistakes that led to its 2009 bankruptcy and remains out of touch with customers.

The other is that the auto industry is doubling down on gas-guzzlers, out of misplaced confidence that todays lower fuel prices are here to stay, and that the North American economy will remain buoyant indefinitely.

In time, Ford is almost certain to regret scrapping its midsize Focus line, a smartly designed, fuel-efficient and affordable brand, in favour of ramped-up production of monster SUVs such as the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator. The latter are destined to be showroom dust-collectors come the next recession or oil shock.

Bombardier: still grounded

There actually are positive things to note in todays Bombardier Inc.

One of Corporate Canadas most reliable sources of bad news has laid off about 12,500 employees in the past two years; effectively abandoned its vaunted C-Series next-generation regional jet program; and most recently decided to exit a Downsview, Ont.-based turboprop business that is a global leader in that niche.

The companys stock is down 27 per cent this year, and trades for about half its value just five years ago.

But for the optimistically inclined, Bombardiers remaining businesses appear to hold promise. The firms rail business (Bombardier Transportation) has an impressive $34-billion backlog. (All figures in U.S. dollars.) And the global market in corporate jets, Bombardiers other major business, seems poised to pull out of a slump of nearly a decades duration.

Bombardier kept the faith during that slump, and will be ready for an industry upturn with a modernized fleet, including its flagship Global 7500 business jet.

In a pinch, the firm still has assets it could sell, including the commuter regional jet (CRJ) business it pioneered.

But you know the rest of the story  that Bombardier never ceases to disappoint. The company has a staggering debt load of about $9.5 billion, and chronic cash-flow shortages to service it.

Bombardier recently dismayed Bay Street in projecting a $600-million cash flow shortfall related to its rail division, due in part to delivery delays, with which the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and other clients are all too familiar.

In sum, Bombardier still lacks mastery in its businesses, which admittedly are unpredictable and hugely capital-intensive. At a current $1.64 per share, the stock still looks expensive.

Chinas stunted pro-market reforms

Ahead of planned negotiations of a Canada-China free-trade deal, Chinas political leadership is under pressure to move from rhetoric to action on long-promised pro-market reforms.

The external pressure, from the U.S. trade war, has inspired a Chinese intellectual elite at state-financed think tanks to press for radical change.

They might imagine they have Chinese President Xi Jinping onside. At the latest G-20 summit, last weekend in Buenos Aires, Xi once again sought to reassure global investors that foreign companies, including those hailing from Canada, are not outsiders but a necessary part of Beijings prosperity agenda.

That would include Xis hyper-ambitious Vision 2025, an audacious quest for Chinese global leadership in artificial intelligence (AI), environmental technologies, electric and driverless vehicles, and other 21st-century-defining realms.

Chinese reformers seek equal treatment of foreign and domestic firms  in their access to state subsidies, for instance; and fewer and less powerful state enterprises, which dominate major fields like banking, telecommunications and energy.

Mixing politics with company management and letting the Communist Party play a leading role in all kinds of companies is a great setback in Chinas reforms, Gary Liu Shengjun of the Shanghai-based China Financial Reform Institute recently told the South China Morning Post.

But the sense of urgency for genuine reforms is in fact dulled by a U.S. trade-war regime that has not delivered the punishing results intended.

It has instead resulted in a closing of the ranks around the centrally controlled, command-economy practices that have shaped Chinas industrial revolution thus far.

Chinese reformers will meet with more success in the absence of the U.S. belligerence they currently believe will force China to truly become open for business.OTTAWACanada will contribute $50 million to a global charity for childrens education, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted to comedian Trevor Noah, a pledge that quickly drew criticism both for its content and its form.

Celebrities gathered in Johannesburg, South Africa on Sunday for the Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100, a charity concert honouring Nelson Mandela a century after he was born.

Trudeau tweeted to Noah, who is hosting the festival, that Canada would give the money to Education Cannot Wait, an organization that funds education for children affected by conflicts, natural disasters and other crises.

Global Citizen is an organization that wants to end extreme poverty by 2030. Its Mandela 100 campaign sought to bring in US$1 billion in donations, and Global Citizen tweeted that the campaign surpassed that goal, bringing in over $7 billion.

Hey @Trevornoah  thanks for everything youre doing to celebrate Nelson Mandelas legacy at the @GlblCtzn festival. Sorry I cant be with you  but how about Canada pledges $50M to @EduCannotWait to support education for women & girls around the world? Work for you? Lets do it, Trudeau tweeted to the South African comedian and The Daily Show host.

Noah said This is amazing! as Trudeaus tweet was shown on a big screen at the concert.

But back in Canada critics were less enthusiastic. Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer accused Trudeau of pledging $50 million in a tweet to impress a TV personality.

A lot of politicians like to be liked. He likes to have his tweets liked and he likes to have his messages retweeted and shared and it seems to be singularly focused on adulation from celebrities, whereas our party and our caucus is focused on doing whats right by Canadian taxpayers, Scheer said at an appearance in Winnipeg.

Similarly, Conservative MP Michelle Rempel tweeted that Trudeaus message was tone deaf and also accused him of trying to get noticed by a TV star and said the money had not been budgeted for.

Louis Belanger, the director of communications for International Development Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau, said the $50 million is part of $400 million in aid previously announced during the G7 Summit in Charlevoix, Que., near Quebec City, in June.

Belanger said Education Cannot Wait is one of the only funds that specifically helps girls education in places such as refugee camps and war zones.

This is the type of funding that we had our eye on since we announced it in Quebec City, he said.

Belanger said the decision to announce the $50 million was made three weeks ago but officials had been talking about giving to Education Cannot Wait for months.

He said the organization operates in Jordan, Lebanon and South Sudan and in camps where people have been displaced by the West African terrorist group Boko Haram, for example.

We think its important for girls to continue their education and thats why were moving forward, he said.

Trudeaus principal secretary Gerald Butts took to Twitter to defend the move.

This money is going to educate women and girls in the developing world, in commemoration of Nelson Mandelas 100th birthday, he tweeted, adding, And the Leader of the Conservative Party of Canadas reaction ... and included a link to Scheers tweet.

Toronto-based lawyer and former Liberal staffer Warren Kinsella tweeted that Education Cannot Wait is a worthy cause, but called Trudeaus tweet an appalling way for the decision to be communicated, to a American-based TV host, no less.

With files from The Associated Press.

Read more about:Cynthia Lai believes in Cynthia Lai.

There are other things the realtor and first-term councillor for Ward 23 (Scarborough North) believes in  like subways.

Perched at a bistro table by the window of her small office with dark violet walls, in a Markham commercial building across the street from a plaza populated by Chinese merchants selling food, she leans forward conspiratorially, inviting her listener to lean in, too, over a WeChat message glowing brightly on her mobile phone. She translates a text written in Chinese, beneath a photo of a map of the Tokyo subway.

The message is from a constituent, travelling in Asia.

Im counting on you, Lai translates. I want the Sheppard subway to be extended and I want this type of subway to be in Toronto.

Lai laughs. The Tokyo subway is so far ahead of Torontos, it seems like a fairy tale.

Im a subway champion. Any world-class city, the first thing they do is build transit, says Lai, adding that she has been told that potential ridership is not sufficient to support a subway extension along the Sheppard line.

We have to be visionary. With the population growth, you dont wait for the ridership.

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She believes its possible to create ridership, although she is, for now, not specific about the details.

Im not inside yet.

Soon, she will be. Lai was one of four new faces elected to Toronto city council in the Oct. 22 election. The first council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday.

Yes, Cynthia Lai believes in subways.

But her foundational belief  the one that has driven her from poverty to prosperity, from a rooming house in Torontos Chinatown, populated by cockroaches and rats, to ownership of Global Link Realty Group Inc., a firm with 30 realtors  is that Cynthia Lai has the energy and drive and people skills to get things done.

If people like you, they trust you and you can sell them anything, she says, leaning back in her chair, a hint of triumph in her smile.

And her ability to find common ground with voters is what got her elected, she believes.

I can connect with people. I enjoy people. I am a people person.

Cynthia Lai is indeed, likable. And like nothing Toronto City Hall has seen in a while. She is not the kind of councillor one associates with a city that spent centuries steeped in white Anglo-Saxon Protestant beliefs and behaviours.

Even now, in a city where more than 50 per cent of the population is foreign-born, Torontos city councillors are mostly white and skew toward a dress code and public comportment that echoes the citys early British ruling class.

During the election campaign, Lai says she was encouraged to tone it down  maybe she shouldnt drive a bright red Audi in a riding where so many of her constituents struggle financially. Maybe carrying a designer Louis Vuitton purse isnt a good idea.

She decided to give up her jewelled manicures while campaigning, although on a short, dark, dreary day in November, a month after the election, they sparkle against the gloom.

She chafes at the advice.

She was born in Hong Kong and her family hails from adjacent Shenzhen, which mushroomed from a small market town to a city of nearly 12 million in less than 50 years. Lai, who travels often to Asia, points to how quickly transportation has been developed in major cities there.

When she left Hong Kong in 1972 to join her sister in Toronto, Hong Kong had yet to begin construction on its subway network. Today, it has 91 stations.

Every year, theres extension of different lines. Thats what we should be doing, says Lai, raising her hands and squeezing them open and shut to pantomime a creature with tentacles.

Its like an octopus.

Lai speaks Hakka, Mandarin and Cantonese. She says she is good with languages.

In 1972, she lived in a rooming house on Huron St., sharing a single room with her sister for $50 a month. She worked as a bank teller by day and took the Carlton streetcar to finish Grade 13 at Jarvis Collegiate at night. It took a year.

She got a degree in medical technology and worked at St. Michaels Hospital, where she met her husband, but she says that when her father was diagnosed with cancer, she no longer wanted to work in a medical setting. She took French lessons and was hired as an air hostess by CP Air before being laid off in an economic downswing a year later.

She began leading tourists from Hong Kong on visits to Niagara Falls. When they asked her if she knew a good real estate agent, she told them to hang on, and she became one, in 1983.

I never looked back, she says.

Lai also believes in development  she was special assistant to the chairman and vice-president of public relations for GR (CAN) Investment Co. Ltd., the company behind a controversial development adjacent to wetlands in Niagara Falls.

While she continues to consult on the project, Lai is not sure whether she will continue. She says she has a meeting scheduled with Torontos integrity commissioner to seek guidance.

The integrity commissioner told the Star she is unable to discuss individual councillor matters publicly.

The development would include 879 dwelling units, 238 seniors units and 500 hotel units; it would create 1,800 to 2,800 jobs.

The company bills itself as a capital management firm that invests in leisure and senior health care real estate development, and says it has a proven history of working with community wetlands, including the protection and revitalization of the Qilihai National Wetland Park in Tianjin, China.

If we dont do anything about maintaining the wetlands, they are going to die, they are going to degrade, they are going to degenerate, says Lai.

This developer is an expert.

Environmentalists remain concerned that endangered species that live in the development area will be at risk if the project goes ahead.

The fact that theyre even in that area, with salt in the wintertime and runoff  its eventually going to destroy those wetlands, says Niagara Falls city councillor Wayne Campbell, who has voted against the project.

The matter has been appealed to the Local Planning Appeals Tribunal.

Lai wants to encourage the right kind of development in her ward.

I think the status quo isnt always the right thing. I will be open to sustainable development in my ward, meaning that they have to be sustained and balanced and progressive.

Lai said she developed an interest in politics while watching her cousin, the late MPP Tony Wong, at work. She ran provincially in 2005 when John Tory was leader of the provincial Progressive Conservative party. She also ran in the 2014 municipal election.

Lai won on Oct. 22 with just 27 per cent of the vote.

She also claims a connection to Premier Doug Ford  she campaigned alongside him, before he was premier, in support of Raymond Cho, now minister for seniors and accessibility.

Cynthia Lai believes in affordable housing and in giving back.

The walls of her office are covered in awards and plaques from the real estate industry, including a top producer award. She was the first female Chinese-Canadian president of the Toronto Real Estate Board. She has been active in fundraising for a variety of causes.

I have compassion, too, says Lai. I worked hard to get to where I am. I really wanted to do something for Toronto to leave a legacy. Im a hard-working person.

Nestled in her bookcase is a picture of her two sons, both of whom were featured in Forbess 30 under 30. Derrick Fung made the list in 2014 for founding Tunezy, which allows fans to pay for unique music experiences and both Derrick and Darren Fung made the 2019 list for a startup called Drop, a mobile rewards platform for debit and credit cards, targeting millennials.

Her sons live in Toronto. She is proud of them, and they of her, she says. They know how hard she worked to get elected. She has her eye on the job of chair of the economic development committee.

I think Toronto has to change. I think I can bring a lot of positive energy to city council, Lai says.

We need somebody like me. I have a reputation for getting stuff done.

It looks as if you appreciate our journalism. Our reporting changes lives, connects communities and effects change. But good journalism is expensive to produce, and advertiser revenue throughout the media industry is falling and unable to carry the cost. That means we need you, our readers. We need your help. If you appreciate deep local reporting, powerful investigations and reliable, responsible information, we hope you will support us through a subscription. Please click here to subscribe.With immigration shaping up to become a wedge issue in next years federal election, the Liberal government is trying to promote the upside of immigration to Canada.

Amid the rise of anti-immigrant sentiment in Canada and abroad, Ottawa is hoping its new online initiative can spark a constructive conversation on immigration that is based on facts and personal stories.

But at least one critic is already slamming it as a propaganda campaign.

Through #ImmigrationMatters, launched in November, the immigration department is inviting the public to submit and share immigrant success stories in their communities, and is posting these accounts  some with links to media stories and others provided by immigrant settlement agencies  on the campaign website and social media outlets.

The campaign includes a toolkit to help people find and spread positive immigrant stories with key messages to highlight newcomer contributions. People can also order #ImmigrationMatters buttons or business cards for use at local events to promote immigration.

We need to do a better job of reminding Canadians of the argument for immigration, why immigration is essential not only to the local community but to our collective prosperity, Immigration Minister Ahmed Hussen told a recent public forum in Toronto.

Read more:

Immigrants are largely behind Canada's status as one of the best-educated countries

Boom or bust, immigrants are choosing Alberta  and theyre thriving

This Syrian refugee is living the classic Canadian dream. We are so proud of Canada and want to make Canada proud of us

We need stories, therefore, to show that in the vast majority of cases, newcomers succeed and their children succeed as well, how newcomers embrace our values and celebrate our freedoms, because that is one of the reasons they chose to come to Canada in the first place, said Hussen, who is himself a refugee from Somalia.

An immigration department spokesperson said this work has been added to the existing staff workload at no additional salary cost, though one casual part-time employee was hired to support story production for videos. Extra operational costs on contracts are expected for up to $27,000 for research, analysis and writing services while $20,779 has been incurred so far under a video contract for a series of stories.

Conservative immigration critic Michelle Rempel calls the new initiative an ill-fated attempt by the Liberal government to make Canadians believe everything is OK on the immigration front.

The government knows that they have mishandled the immigration system. Instead of trying to solve the problem, they are trying to take the easy path. I dont think Canadians are buying it, Rempel told the Star.

Since coming to power in 2015, the Liberals have made bold moves to boost immigration by welcoming 60,000 Syrian refugees and committing to raise the annual immigrant admission to 350,000 by 2021 from 300,000 last year.

Although the countrys response to the Syrian humanitarian crisis received overwhelming public support, since then, the surge of asylum seekers crossing the border from the United States  35,000 since early 2017  has some Canadians questioning whether Canada has welcomed too many immigrants.

An Angus Reid Institute poll in the summer showed almost half of Canadians felt Ottawas 2018 target of 310,000 newcomers to Canada was too high just as the opposition Conservatives hammered the government for mishandling the influx of refugees from the U.S.

Rempel said the majority of Canadians, regardless of their political leanings, are in favour of immigration, but only if the process is lawful, co-ordinated and fair.

The government shouldnt be spending money on some propaganda campaign when they should be fixing the (refugee) situation that is eroding public support to begin with, she said, pointing to a Parliamentary Budget Office report this week that warned the cost associated with so-called irregular migration would reach $340 million and keep rising.

The #ImmigrationMatters initiative includes key messages to help guide public conversations about immigration including that:

Immigrants contribute to the economy and create jobs for Canadians;

Immigrants are thoroughly screened and respect our laws;

Immigrants integrate fully into Canadian society.

A senior immigration department official told the Star the idea for the campaign came up more than a year ago, partially inspired by the ministers penchant for storytelling, and has nothing to do with next years election.

Its unrelated, said the official, who spoke to the Star on background. This has been going on for a year and will go beyond the next election. We just want to have an honest and open conversation about the role immigrants play in our country.

Ryerson University politics and public administration professor Myer Siemiatycki praises the governments effort to push back the overflow of negative messaging about immigration both inside and outside Canada.

The immigration discourse has taken a harsh, negative tone, where immigration equals bad and equals problems. This campaign reminds Canadians that immigrants bring a lot of upsides and positives to Canada by looking at the facts and records. Its an important undertaking said Siemiatycki.

There is no question personal stories and individual vignettes are extremely powerful. Combined with fact-based context, these stories matter and are the best way to get the message across.Everton Brown always intended to sue the Woodstock police officers he alleges beat and repeatedly shocked him during an arrest five years ago, but he took the advice of his criminal lawyer and waited until the charges against him played out in court.

The criminal case ended more than two years later with no convictions and all of the serious charges against him  obstructing and resisting police, and possession of crack cocaine and proceeds of crime  being withdrawn, provided he agree to a peace bond that involved him keeping the peace and staying out of Woodstock for a year.

In May 2016, sue, he did, launching a $1.75-million suit alleging he was assaulted, illegally arrested and detained and illegally searched. The 51-year-old London man did so more than two years after the alleged assault by police, placing it beyond the normal two-year limit for making such a claim.

For that reason, police argued his suit should be tossed.

But recent court decisions by the Ontario Court of Appeal  and the Supreme Court of Canada decisions not to revisit them  came down in Browns favour, as well as for another man facing a similar scenario, and also involving the Woodstock Police Service.

Essentially, the two-year limitations clock in cases like this now starts ticking when criminal charges are disposed of, rather than at the date of an arrest. The rulings reverse a standard that effectively prevented some victims of alleged police abuses from being able to seek compensation in civil court.

Before these rulings, potential complainants would have to proceed through the notoriously slow criminal court system in order to first see any evidence against them that might inform their decision to sue  while also defending against those charges.

In September, the Supreme Court of Canada refused to hear appeals by police in Browns case and that of Robert Winmill, affirming a 2017 Ontario Court of Appeal decision in Winmills case that it makes sense for people to focus on criminal charges and deal with those before making a final decision about a civil action against police.

The court of appeal in March found Browns case to be a mirror-image scenario to Winmills.

Its a watershed case, says Toronto lawyer Osborne Barnwell, who is representing Brown in the civil case. In my view, it sort of levels the playing field. The court took the view that it would be unfair for him to have to sue the police while hes being prosecuted, and thats why this case, from my perspective, is a significant achievement.

Barry Swadron, who represented many clients suing police during his legal career, agrees. Civil suits against the police are extremely expensive, he says, and an accused person who endures police misconduct may well be reluctant to commence a lawsuit against the police while he is in jeopardy of being convicted, and consequently likely to lose that lawsuit. Allowing more time to sue in these instances is a welcome development.

The lawsuits can take years to play out, often costing plaintiffs tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees, win or lose.

Kent Roach, a University of Toronto law professor and legal scholar, says delaying the start of the clock is probably appropriate because its a lot to expect an accused to fight this kind of two-fronted war  civil and criminal  at the same time, and many causes of actions will really depend upon whether the police have been able to make out their charges.

Brian McCall, the lawyer representing Woodstock police, would not comment on the specifics of the case because it is before the courts, but said in an email to the Star that overturning the standard that the limitation period begins to run at the date of arrest exposes officers to civil claims which may otherwise not have proceeded.

None of Browns allegations have been proven in court. In a statement of defence, Woodstock police deny Browns allegations of assault and illegal arrest and detention. They say police had information Brown was a suspected drug dealer, that the force used to arrest him was necessary, and that police used the Taser to control him while he resisted arrest.

On recent November afternoon, Brown sat in a boardroom at Barnwells North York law offices to talk about his precedent-setting case, and the impact it has had on his life.

Brown came to Canada from Jamaica in the late 80s and early 90s as a seasonal migrant farm worker picking tobacco and apples. He found love and Canada become home.

On Feb. 15, 2013, he drove from London to a multi-unit house in Woodstock, where he said a friends husband had offered to help him install a car stereo.

According to his statement of claim, Brown was in his car outside the address, when he suffered shooting pain followed by an anxiety attack stemming from a car accident two years earlier.

He told the Star he stayed inside the car in order to deal with the attack, using breathing techniques he learned from a psychologist.

Thats when, according to his suit, he was accosted by a number of individuals, whom he believed were thugs trying to rob him  men he later discovered were four plainclothes police officers. One officer, he alleges, drew his gun and pointed it at him.

Brown alleges in the statement of claim that he was struck repeatedly by fists and forcibly dragged out of the car, causing injuries to his head, face and throat, thrown on the snowy ground, and, while face down, tasered at least four times.

If it wasnt for God himself, I wouldnt be living today, Brown told the Star. It felt like my heart was going to cut off. I couldnt breathe.

Brown alleges in his suit that, in addition to the other injuries, his jaw was locked and he asked to be taken to hospital but that didnt immediately happen. Instead, he was handcuffed, booked at the station and held overnight before being taken to hospital the next day. He also alleges police deliberately broke a walking stick he needed to get around.

Police, in their statement of defence, do not make any references to a request to go to the hospital, and say no more force than was reasonably necessary to make the arrest. They allege Brown refused to get out of the car and put something in his mouth. After officers pulled him from the vehicle, police allege Brown spit the object in his mouth into the snowbank, which was later determined to be crack cocaine wrapped in plastic.

Police also allege the address Brown was visiting was a location where drug dealing occurred and that Brown was associated with known drug dealers and that his negligence caused any damages he sustained.

Brown says in his suit that he was not at all involved in drug dealing. He told the Star there was no spit out. There was no drugs.

Browns suit states that he learned at his trial that police had been watching the address and had a suspicion that Brown was selling drugs to a certain person. He also points out in his suit that the house is divided into four apartments. He was there to visit tenants who lived upstairs, and the person being targeted by the police apparently lived downstairs, he states in his suit.

Police had been wiretapping their target, Brown states in his suit, and there was no evidence whatsoever that he had been involved in criminal activity.

After five days of evidence at his trial, including Charter applications, the Crown, according to court records, approached Browns lawyer with an offer to end the criminal case against him with the peace bond and withdrawal of charges.

In his suit, Brown alleges the peace bond was thrust upon him.

Brown told the Star he would like to see the officers involved disciplined.

He said he now has problems remembering things and needs help to keep his house and yard in order. When he sees police driving behind him, I feel intimidated. It brings me back there. To that day, when they pulled me out of the car.

It looks as if you appreciate our journalism. Our reporting changes lives, connects communities and effects change. But good journalism is expensive to produce, and advertiser revenue throughout the media industry is falling and unable to carry the cost. That means we need you, our readers. We need your help. If you appreciate deep local reporting, powerful investigations and reliable, responsible information, we hope you will support us through a subscription. Please click here to subscribe.Longtime Oakville mayor, Second World War veteran and heritage conservationist Harry Barrett has died.

The 93-year-old reportedly passed away peacefully at his home on Friday.

Barrett is being remembered for his extensive public service, which began when he served on Oakville town council as a councillor from 1968 to 1970.

He went on to serve as deputy reeve from 1971 to 1972, and held the position of mayor of Oakville for six terms, from 1973 to 1985.

Oakville Mayor Rob Burton called Barrett a champion of heritage and waterfront protection, as well as being his mentor.

His passion for our community has always inspired me and many others, he said.

As chair of the Oakville Planning Board in the 1960s, Barrett is credited with discovering a clause in the provinces Planning Act that entitled the municipality to a portion of waterfront land when it was subdivided or intensified through redevelopment.

He convinced the council of the day to act on this clause, serving as the foundation of a town-wide policy that continues to this day.

During his time as mayor, town officials said, Barrett was instrumental in the purchase and preservation of Oakvilles harbour lands, as well as the Erchless Estate. The property is now home to the Oakville Museum.

In 1981, Barrett also helped establish the Old Oakville Heritage Conservation District.

For these achievements, he was honoured with the 2016 Lieutenant Governors Award for Heritage Conservation from the National Trust for Canada.

His civic leadership and his role in preserving local shoreline was also recognized in 2012 with the creation of the Harry Barrett Waterfront Parks System.

I must share this with all those members of council, staff and the public who supported me on this. It wasnt a popular item at times, Barrett said during the unveiling ceremony.

Wed been to court, wed been to the OMB (Ontario Municipal Board), but luckily we always won.

Barrett was a of the Oakville Historical Society and Oakvilles heritage committee.

His obituary pointed out that he entered this world at a residence on Trafalgar Road and left it a few kilometres away in the house he built with his wife, Jackie.

Barrett served during the Second World War, joining up at the age of 18.

He was trained as a field gunner with the 4th Field Regiment of the Royal Canadian Artillery, but he said that rather than fire artillery pieces, he was tasked with recognizance duties as the Canadian army advanced through Belgium, the Netherlands and finally Germany.

His duties included spotting enemy positions and laying telephone wire so the forward operating bases could communicate with the rear positions.

In an interview with the Oakville Public Library, said he had several close calls.

One night, he and some other soldiers slept in a haystack in a farmers field. They awoke the following morning and quickly realized two German soldiers were asleep on the other side of the haystack.

The Germans were taken prisoner without incident.

Another incident, which could have potentially taken a fatal turn, occurred near the end of the war, when Barrett and another soldier approached a small town looking for bedding. Finding nothing, they turned around, only to see five German soldiers approaching them with their hands up.

Barrett and his comrade took the men prisoner, and during questioning, it was revealed the Germans had been manning a machine gun, which they pointed at the two Canadian soldiers as they approached.

The group ultimately decided not to open fire and instead surrendered, reasoning a larger force must be nearby since the two Canadians were strolling about the town in broad daylight.

It was just the thing to do, Barrett said about going to war.

You were expected to join up. It was an adventure. At 18, you think youre immortal. That nothing is going to happen to you. Some of the near misses you have ... you shudder in your boots when you think about it now, but you didnt think anything of it then.

Barrett is survived by daughters Carol and Laurie, grandsons Chris and Dan, niece Anne, great-nephew Ben, great-niece Amy and great-great niece Michaela.

He was predeceased by wife Jackie, brother Jack, sister-in-law Emma and son-in-law Roger.

A funeral service will be held at St. Johns United Church, 262 Randall St., on Monday at 1 p.m. A visitation was held at Kopriva Taylor Community Funeral Home on Sunday.

In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to the Scott Mission or a charity of choice.

Read more about:The short supply of housing driving the cost of shelter ever higher is the most pressing problem confronting Ontarios minister of municipal affairs and housing. But there is no scarcity of competing voices telling Steve Clark how to address the crisis.

Still, Clark wants to make sure hes heard all the ideas and arguments, especially innovative solutions.

Ryersons Centre for Urban Research and Land Development held a conference Friday offering advice to the regions newly elected politicians.

Some recommendations from the speakers  academics, economists, planners and developers  are familiar: Reduce planning timelines; lay the pipes so developable land is serviced for builders; sweeten the pot with tax relief to entice rental construction.

Other proposals  permitting taller timber construction and making it easier to build basement apartments in established neighbourhoods  have received less air time.

In an interview with the Star in his College Park office Thursday, Clark steadfastly refused to pre-empt the outcome of consultations launched last Wednesday for his governments Housing Supply Action Plan, expected in June.

Read more:

Boost townhouse supply to fill housings missing middle, report says

Housing supply affects affordability in the GTA  not just demand

Housing minister says nixing rent control on new units will solve lack of supply

He also is aware of the jitters of environmentalists who question the Progressive Conservative governments commitment to the Greenbelt, the two-million-acre swath of protected agricultural and environmentally sensitive land ringing the Toronto-Niagara region.

A former mayor of Brockville, first elected to Queens Park in the eastern Ontario riding of Leeds-Grenville in 2010, Clark repeatedly stresses that his mandate extends beyond the Greater Toronto Hamilton Area, geographically and ideologically. But he acknowledges there is wide overlap when it comes to some issues.

It would have been a surprise to me at the start of the last election that in rural Leeds-Grenville I would actually be fielding questions about the Greenbelt, Clark said. But it was an issue that came up and obviously it came up in pretty well every riding.

The Greenbelt was a prominent issue after video surfaced of a campaigning Doug Ford telling developers that the protected area would be opened up under his government. Ford became premier after walking the comments back.

In his office, Clark showed off an authors gift  a coffee-table book about the Greenbelt by Burkhard Mausberg, founding CEO of the Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation.

The conversation Ive had with many stakeholders is, how can we enhance the Greenbelt. How can we have that conversation when sometimes the voices compete, he said.

What he wont say is whether enhance means expand  only that he wants to better understand the Greenbelt Councils work plan. He has met with its chair David Crombie.

Im going to keep an open mind, Clark said.

He stressed there are other development opportunities to explore before loosening any sprawl restrictions.

I believe we should be looking at some of the properties we presently control, he said, citing Toronto Mayor John Torys commitment to building affordable housing on 10 surplus city sites still to be announced.

Id like to talk to my cabinet colleagues about looking at some of our available land that is in the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services hands and I think we have a federal lands program. I think we have to send a signal at all three levels of government that if weve got available lands that could be used for housing projects that we need to work collaboratively together, Clark said.

We cant have a discussion about housing supply without talking about (housing) mix, he said. That includes a discussion of the missing middle  the 70 per cent of Toronto that is zoned deliberately to keep denser housing forms out of established neighbourhoods that are well served by transit, schools, hospitals and community centres.

Its not his preference to have the province bigfoot municipalities in the way it unilaterally cut Toronto council in half, he said, adding that collaboration is always his preference.

The minister has already taken some heat on the governments decision to remove rent controls on brand new units. But there are other issues he is championing in the rental sector, he said, including pushing Attorney General Caroline Mulroney to appoint more adjudicators to alleviate the backlog at the Ontario Landlord Tenant Board that rules on tenant disputes.

Ive pleaded my case so I hope something happens, Clark said.

Four years isnt a much time to build housing when the planning process takes 10 to 15 years before a developer can even start on the application process, he admits. But thats the goal. He wants people to say that his government was able to hasten development times, lower costs and he wants landlords and tenants to feel heard.

Im going to look for check marks in some degree in all those.Domenico Violi, the Hamilton son of a murdered mob boss, has been sentenced to eight years in prison after pleading guilty Monday to trafficking drugs with a made member of a New York Mafia family.

The New Yorker  who did not testify at Violis trial and is not named in court documents  was secretly working as a paid police agent in a three-year, RCMP-led police operation during which he was officially inducted into the Bonanno Mafia family, according to an agreed statement of facts presented in court Monday.

Violi, 52, showed little expression before Justice George Gage as he was sentenced in a Hamilton courtroom packed with family and supporters.

He hugged his wife and kissed his son on the cheek before he was led into custody.

This investigation and the prosecution stemming out of it have been a significant achievement, prosecutor James Clark said in an interview outside court.

Veteran defence lawyer Dean Paquette, who represented Violi, said bringing the police agent into court to testify would have been a high security risk.

Read more:

2002 Halton Police report had intelligence on accused mobster

Accused Violi brothers in trafficking bust come from colourful family

GTA cocaine conspiracy was tied to Ndrangheta crime network, Crown says at sentencing of alleged mob boss

The prosecution was probably happy not to have to get him, Paquette said.

Dozens of other well-wishers waited outside the courtroom in a show of support for Violi, who ran a business selling pasta, olive oil, coffee and hardwood flooring.

Be nice, one told a Star reporter. Its family. I know you have a job to do.

Accounting credit for time served in pretrial custody, Violi has six years and 142 days left to serve in his eight-year sentence.

As part of his plea, the Crown dropped charges of criminal organization against Violi, who in November 2017 was charged with his younger brother, Giuseppe (Joe) Violi, and seven others a massive drug bust, code-named Project OTremens.

At the time, the RCMP called the arrests a tremendous blow to organized crime in Canada.

Giuseppe Violi, 48, who managed a linen and laundry services company in Hamilton, was sentenced in June to 16 years in prison for fentanyl and cocaine trafficking.

At the time of their arrests, the RCMP said the Violi brothers were well-established organized criminals with an international reach.

Domenico Violi admitted to trafficking approximately 260,000 pills, including PCP, ecstasy and methamphetamine to the American police agent, who posed as a mobster.

According to a prosecutor, the agent is currently in an undisclosed location in a witness protection program. Details of his initiation into the Bonanno crime family were not disclosed in court, nor was the amount of money he was paid for his work as an informant.

According to the agreed statement of facts, the agent paid Domenico Violi $416,000 (U.S.) for the pills.

Violi was paid another $24,600 as his share of the profits, according to the agreed statement.

According to police, Giuseppe and Domenico Violi are at least the third generation of a Ndrangheta Mafia group. The brothers were 8 and 11 years old, respectively, in 1978 when their father, Paolo Violi, was murdered in the Montreal ice cream shop that had been his headquarters.

At the time, Paolo Violi was acting boss of the Montreal mob, which police considered to be an arm of the Bonanno crime family of New York City.

Paolo Violis criminal organization in Montreal was severely damaged when undercover police officer Robert (Shotgun) Menard rented out an apartment above the ice cream shop in the Saint-Leonard district of Montreal and secretly recorded conversations between 1970 and 1976.

Those secret recordings included telephone calls to Calabria and Sicily in Italy, and to New York and Miami.

Portions of those conversations were played at the mid-1970s Quebec Police Commission inquiry into organized crime and in trials in Italy, where they were used to show connections between Italian and North American criminals.

Menard died of a heart attack in 2016 at age 82.

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, two uncles of Giuseppe and Domenico Violi were also slain in the protracted war with the Rizzuto crime family that also killed their father.

After the murders, survivors in the Violi family moved back to Hamilton, where Domenico and Giuseppe Violi lived under the protection of their grandfather Giacomo Luppino, police said.

Police considered Luppino to be a long-standing associate of the Buffalo mob and a founding member of the Crimine, a governing body for criminals in the Ndrangheta.

Luppino died of natural causes in Hamilton in March 1988 at the age of 88.

The agreed statement of facts filed in Hamilton court on Monday spoke of tight working relationships between Canadian and American mobsters.

The police agent, it said, was a trusted associate and then official made member of the New York City-based Bonanno family and his membership facilitated his criminal transactions with members and associates of other criminal organizations operating in Canada and in the United States.

He had numerous discussions about multiple organized crime groups operating in the Greater Toronto Area and elsewhere in Canada and the United States, the statement continued.

The agent maintained a social relationship with Domenico Violi and met him regularly, it said. In one meeting, at Violis Hamilton home, the agent handed him $240,000 wrapped in a plastic yellow grocery bag, placed inside a pink and grey shopping bag, according to the statement of facts.

Witton Luu, 25, one of Violis co-accused in Project OTremens, died in August at the Joyceville medium-security prison near Kingston under what the Correctional Service of Canada called non-natural circumstances.

Luu had been there since May 17, when he was sentenced to three years and nine months.

The project culminated in dawn raids two years ago in Hamilton, York Region, Niagara, Innisfil, Vancouver and Montreal.

The raids included officers from the RCMP, OPP, and Toronto, Hamilton, Peel and York region police. The operation also partnered with the OPP-led Contraband Tobacco Enforcement Team and seized more than three million contraband cigarettes.

Project OTremens was also assisted by U.S. Homeland Security, Italian police departments, the Colombian National Police and RCMP liaison officers in Colombia, Mexico, Italy and the Netherlands.

The FBI in New York City conducted what the RCMP called a parallel, but separate investigation into the Sicilian Mafia in that city, focusing on members of the Bonanno and Gambino families. Several members and associates of those crime families were charged with cocaine trafficking, loan sharking, extortion and money laundering.

Erin Maranan, a Toronto police civilian employee, was also charged in the investigation. She was convicted last June of leaking information to criminals.As dense as Toronto may be, its not nearly dense enough.

Compared to many big cities, Toronto is one of the least intensely populated urban centres in the world. New York, for example, comes in at about 11,000 people per square kilometre. Hong Kong has a staggering 26,000. Toronto weighs in at a mere 4,500. Many residents  probably most  like it that way. For them, density conjures up images of tall towers, teeming streets and terrible traffic.

But guess what? Toronto has already reached that point. By trying to have it both ways, this city has become a place where inhabitants contend with the worst of both worlds. Lack of density has exacerbated the affordability crisis and encouraged sprawl. On the other hand, even the middling densities of an auto-dependant region like the GTA mean some of the worst  some say the worst  congestion in North America.

Damned when we did. Damned when we didnt.

Though density is a prerequisite to the economic, social, cultural critical mass that underlies urban success, this increasingly suburban-minded city remains deeply ambivalent about whether density is really what it wants. In a NIMBY stronghold like Toronto, density is fine as long as its somewhere else. Thats reflected in the Official Plan, which declares neighbourhoods sacrosanct, and restricts growth to the avenues, designated main streets deemed appropriate for development.

But even the most dispersed lowrise neighbourhoods can be densified through the power of zoning. Basement apartments, granny flats, rooming houses and the like have been around for decades. Yet the glass bead game of rules and regulations has reached the point where few can say with certainty whats allowed and what isnt. Basement apartments, for example, have been legal since 2000 but the house must be more than five years old with ceilings more than six feet, five inches tall, etc., etc, etc. Rooming houses are OK, but only in parts of old Toronto. Granny flats are fine  if theyre in the right location.

The argument against secondary suites is that they might change the character of a neighbourhood. But change happens regardless. Parkdale, for example, started as an upper-middle-class neighbourhood in the late 1800s, then became a low-income enclave in the 50s. Now, the gentrifying forces have arrived to reclaim whats theirs.

On the other hand, the recent legalization of laneway housing in Toronto and East York will help people find a home. In a city with 300 kilometres of alleys, the impact could be significant. Working with the citys housing advocate, Councillor Ana Bailao, local organizations Evergreen and Lanescape managed to convince civic decision-makers by arguing for a new kind of housing in which power, sewer, water, gas, etc. come from the main building not a laneway. The changes address bureaucratic obstacles; physical factors remain the same. The advantages are huge  laneway suites will allow more people to inhabit established neighbourhoods and take advantage of existing urban infrastructure.

Still, the citys hostility to change is maddening. No surprise, then, that players such as veteran Toronto architect Dermot Sweeny are frustrated. Weve finally allowed laneway housing, he mutters. But leave stupid zoning in place. The ridiculous notion of separating uses has made our cities much less viable. Zoning in Toronto is ill-informed and not proactive. We need a higher order of intelligence and education to deal with this stuff.

An exasperated Sweeny suggests bulldozing lowrise neighbourhoods and replacing them with six-storey residential buildings that step back to seven, eight or nine storeys.

And dont get him going on Torontos point towers and their city-mandated 750-square-metre footprint: Point towers make sense in New York because land is so expensive there. But in Toronto they are grotesquely inefficient. Slab buildings make much more sense.

Then theres Torontos appalling waste of heritage buildings, which city hall allows to be demolished for the price of a facade or two. Focusing instead on adaptive reuse would give the past a future and enhance the city immeasurably.

Though we look to the city for solutions to the housing crisis, typically it is the problem. There are other factors, notably NIMBYism, but Official Toronto has been slow to grasp the difference between controlling change and stifling it. City halls culture of no-can-do and its historic resistance to change have kept the city from capitalizing on its assets and fully realizing its potential. Fear of the future prevails. But a city that cant adapt must die.Toronto police have arrested a 48-year-old man they say extorted at least two other men using the online dating website Ashley Madison.

Police allege the man used the Toronto-based site, which advertises itself to people looking to cheat on their spouses, to extort men who had arranged to meet women they had befriended online.

In both cases, police allege the man told his victims the user they were talking to was an underage girl associated with organized crime.

In a Monday news release, police said they believe there may be other victims.

The first incident began in February, after a 58-year-old man befriended a user named Svenita. After providing Svenita with intimate personal information the two arranged a March meeting at which police allege the man was approached by another man who said Svenita was underage and had ties to organized crime. Police allege he then threatened to expose the first man if he didnt pay up.

The second incident began in November, when a 64-year-old man befriended a user named SarahMickeyMay. As in the first case, police said the pair arranged a meeting at which another man appeared and similarly threatened to exposure.

In an emailed statement to the Star, Paul Keable, a spokesperson for Ashley Madisons parent company, Ruby Life, said the incidents are clearly contravention of the terms and conditions of our service.

We continue to encourage our members to report any instances of misconduct to our customer support team. In the event that we receive such a report, we will take appropriate measures, which may include removing the profile or banning the user, Keable said.

In 2015, the website experienced a massive data breach that saw the personal information of 32 million clients released.

Michael Malentin, 48, has been arrested and charged with two counts of extortion and two counts of wearing a disguise with intent.

He appeared in court on Friday.WARNING: DISTURBING IMAGE INCLUDED BELOW

Its been more than a year since 81-year-old Toronto nursing home resident Phillip Kennedy suffered a leg wound so deep and wide it looked as if he had been sliced open by an axe.

His daughter, Kathleen Kennedy, said the home has never told her family how Phillip was injured, even though it happened in the middle of the day, in a licensed Ontario long-term care facility busy with nurses and personal support workers.

When Phillip was injured  three days after moving in  nobody from Hawthorne Place Care Centre could, or would, say how it happened. A provincial ministry of health inspector spent six days investigating but found no explanation for the cause of the injury. Phillip died in hospital three weeks later. Kathleen said his death report cited end-stage heart disease and kidney failure.

If they had just said to me, you know what, we dropped him, or even, you know what, he was hit with an axe, we are sorry and this is what weve done to make sure it doesnt happen to someone else, I would have accepted it. But there was none of that. Nothing, Kathleen said.

It is very unsettling.

After Phillip was injured, on Oct. 28, 2017, the inspector interviewed at least eight employees, including the homes administrator, physiotherapist and personal support workers. While the inspectors final report, provided to the Star by Phillips family, didnt find conclusive answers, it detailed four violations, including the abuse and neglect that led to the firing of five workers, along with unsafe practices while moving him from sitting to standing and from chair to bed.

Last week, a spokesperson for Hawthorne Place Care Centre told the Star that its internal probe, including the work of an outside investigator, found that Phillips injury was likely the result of a staff error.

All indications are that the injury was unintentional  the result of an accident which occurred while the resident was being cared for by our staff, the emailed statement said. This is a highly regrettable incident, and we apologize without reservation to the resident's family.

Kathleen said this is the first she has heard of the homes findings.

Hawthorne Place is owned by Rykka Care Centres. Its managing partner, Responsive Management Inc., said the nursing home could not go into any additional detail because of pending legal action by the family. Last spring, Kathleen, a registered nurse, hired a Toronto law firm to look into her fathers case.

The familys troubles began more than a year ago, after Phillip was discharged from a Richmond Hill hospital where he had spent two months after repeated falls, along with heart problems.

On Oct. 25, 2017, Phillip moved into a shared room on the first floor of Hawthorne Place, a long-term care home built in the early 1970s near Jane St. and Finch Ave.

His time there was expected to be short, just to get him steady on his feet again, so he arrived with little more than his clothes and rosary beads. If he struggled with his balance, Phillips mind was sharp and he loved to read, always with a newspaper or the BBC History magazine by his side.

Three days later, a personal support worker found Phillip lying in bed, his sheets stained with blood, the worker told the inspector. A deep slash in his leg cut to the bone. Staff huddled outside his room, entering and leaving, as he lay in bed, his eyes closed, murmuring in response to a nurses question: Are you okay? The nurse could not hear what he said.

That afternoon, Greg Kennedy, Phillips son, was driving with his mom to visit his dad when nursing home staff called to tell him of the injury.

When I got there, he was in bed and his leg was bandaged, said Greg, a supervisor at Molson Coors, currently on disability leave. There were five workers standing outside his room and nobody could say what happened. He was incoherent. He looked awful. He was grey, a kind of death look.

I was in tears when I left there. I thought he was going to die right then and there.

Greg said the paramedics who rushed Phillip to Humber River Hospital told his family to file a complaint with the ministry about the severity of the injury and staffs inability to describe how it happened. Kathleen contacted the ministry, and a few days later the inspector arrived to investigate.

The homes administrator told the inspector that discrepancies were found emerging from staff interviews.

Staff didnt immediately report the injury to the ministry or police, as is required when abuse is a possible cause. After the homes administrator learned of Phillips condition two days later, the ministry and police were contacted, the report said. Kathleen and the administrator separately reported the injury to Toronto Police, who told the Star officers interviewed at least two staff members but could not confirm how Phillip was injured. Police closed the case in January.

Hawthorne Place fired the two personal support workers and three nurses who were involved in Phillips care that day, the report said. The nurses were reported to the College of Nurses of Ontario, the oversight body for nurses. A college spokesperson confirmed the nurses are being investigated.

Photographs taken by Greg show the gash was on the outer part of Phillips right leg, just below the knee. It was a deep, gaping wound.

The timeline of Phillips injury and how staff reacted to it are detailed in the ministry report.

At roughly 2:30 p.m. on October 28, a personal support worker called a registered nurse to Phillips room, pointing to blood on his bed sheet. When the worker rolled up Phillips pant leg, the nurse saw a large laceration on his outer right shin. The nurse reported seeing some white stuff, appeared like bone.

This registered nurse left Phillip without assessing him, the inspection report said, and went to ask another nurse to measure and cover the wound. The first nurse called the ambulance and Phillips family. Nobody called the police or ministry.

The second nurse went to another part of the home to find a measuring tape before arriving in Phillips room, later telling the ministry inspector the wound was deep with sloughs and it was so bad (she/he) could not look at it to measure the wound.

This second nurse left Phillips room without assessing him, the report said, and went to find a third nurse.

The third nurse arrived and measured the wound at five centimetres by five centimetres, and covered it with gauze and a bandage. Kathleen said she believes the wound was larger.

The ministry inspection report said the three nurses and two personal support workers directly involved denied any knowledge of the cause of the injury, with staff saying it likely happened between Phillips lunch and 2:30 p.m.

While the inspection report doesnt conclude what caused the injury, it notes a personal support workers admission that she transferred, or moved, Phillip on her own, even though his care plan had been updated a day earlier to say he was so unsteady on his feet that he needed two people to help him. (He weighed more than 200 pounds.)

When the inspector later tried to re-create how Phillip had been transferred into bed, she found that her knee pressed against the knob and a flat piece of metal connecting the knob with the sides of the bed rail. The report said the flat piece of metal was not smooth. Kathleen said the inspector told her that this detail was considered an observation, not a conclusion of what caused the injury.

The inspector noted that the homes director of care later acknowledged the nursing team and the physiotherapy team did not collaborate with each other in regards to Phillips assessments and the requirement he have two-worker transfers.

On the day of his injury, after Phillip returned from the dining room in a wheelchair, the lone worker helped him out of the chair and onto the toilet. Then the worker helped him move to his bed. The worker later told the inspector that Phillip did not fall during those transfers. The report said the worker acknowledged that an extra person was required.

After the injury and Phillips stay in intensive care, his family requested he be transferred back to Richmond Hills Mackenzie Health hospital. On Nov. 19, three weeks after his leg wound, Phillip died. Kathleen said the death report cited her fathers ongoing heart and kidney problems.

The law firm, Howie, Sacks and Henry, is talking to the home through its insurance company, Kathleen said. A lawsuit has not been filed.

This is a shocking injury, said the familys lawyer, Melissa Miller. No family should have to go through this. No resident of a nursing home should have to go through this.

It looks as if you appreciate our journalism. Our reporting changes lives, connects communities and effects change. But good journalism is expensive to produce, and advertiser revenue throughout the media industry is falling and unable to carry the cost. That means we need you, our readers. We need your help. If you appreciate deep local reporting, powerful investigations and reliable, responsible information, we hope you will support us through a subscription. Please click here to subscribe.

Read more about:WASHINGTONWith a brutal finality, the extent of the Republicans collapse in the House came into focus last week as more races slipped away from them and their losses neared 40 seats.

Yet nearly a month after the election, there has been little self-examination among Republicans about why a midterm that had seemed at least competitive became a rout.

U.S. President Donald Trump has brushed aside questions about the loss of the chamber entirely, ridiculing losing incumbents by name, while continuing to demand Congress fund a border wall despite his party losing many of their most diverse districts. Unlike their Democratic counterparts, Republicans swiftly elevated their existing slate of leaders with little debate, signalling a continuation of their existing political strategy.

And neither House Speaker Paul Ryan nor Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the incoming House minority leader, have stepped forward to confront why the partys once-loyal base of suburban supporters abandoned it  and what can be done to win them back.

The quandary, some Republicans acknowledge, is that the partys leaders are constrained from fully grappling with the damage Trump inflicted with those voters, because he remains popular with the partys core supporters and with the conservatives who will dominate the caucus even more in the next Congress.

But now a cadre of Republican lawmakers are speaking out and urging party officials to come to terms with why their 23-seat majority unravelled so spectacularly and Democrats gained the most seats they had since 1974.

Read more:

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There has been close to no introspection in the GOP conference and really no coming to grips with the shifting demographics that get to why we lost those seats, said Rep. Elise Stefanik, an upstate New York Republican who is planning to repurpose her political action committee to help Republican women win primaries in 2020. Im very frustrated, and I know other members are frustrated.

Stefanik said there had been robust private conversations, but she urged Republicans to conduct a formal assessment of their midterm effort.

The Republican response, or lack thereof, to the midterm backlash stands in stark contrast to the shakeups and soul-searching that followed its loss of Congress in 2006 and consecutive presidential defeats in 2012.

House officials indicate that they will pursue an after-action report, but it is unclear how far it will go in diagnosing why they lost the popular vote by more raw votes than any time in history.

Many of the lawmakers who lost their races or did not run again say the party has a profound structural challenge that incumbents are unwilling to fully face: Trumps deep toxicity among moderate voters, especially women.

With most of the Republicans who lost hailing from suburban seats, those who remain represent red-hued districts where the president is well-liked.

Now the party is Trump, said Rep. Tom Rooney of Florida, who at 48 decided to retire, so we follow his lead.

Or as Rep. Ryan Costello of Pennsylvania, who is also retiring, put it: Its clear to me why we lost 40 seats; it was a referendum on the president, but thats an extremely difficult proclamation for people to make because if they were to say that theyd get the wrath of the president.

Beyond the eggshell-walking that Trump demands, the depth of the Republican defeat was initially obscured because of the late counting in some House races, and because the Republican Party gained seats in the Senate while some of the Democrats most-heralded statewide candidates lost.

Further, the partys hard-line stances on immigration and health care, as well as their willingness to pass a tax bill that stung high-income districts, are as much the result of trying to assuage the far-right House Freedom Caucus as the president.

Yet there is a deep reluctance among the leaders to discuss what went wrong.

In an interview on the Saturday before the election, Rep. Steve Stivers of Ohio, the head of the House Republican campaign arm, predicted his party would keep the majority. But, citing a handful of suburban incumbents, Stivers allowed that if we wake up on Wednesday and all those have broken the other way then its legitimate to say it was Trump.

Reminded last week of those comments, the lawmaker would only say: Im not playing the blame game.

He is hardly alone in averting difficult questions  or accountability.

McCarthy faced only a nominal challenge on his right flank in a leadership election that took place before the extent of the partys defeats in California  it lost seven House seats  became clear. And Trump has ignored the House results.

The most the president has said took place the day after the election, when he used a news conference to belittle those who did not campaign with him and lost  an extraordinary tirade that few lawmakers condemned.

One who did was Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill. That was disgusting, he said, recalling how other presidents acknowledged defeat after their party lost the House. I think back to Obama and Bush, both admitting it when they lost, accepting that with some grace.

There has not been, Kinzinger said, any party look-back or leadership look-back and it does worry some of us.

What alarms Republicans more is that the possibility that disgust with Trump will be uncurable in 2020, when he will likely be on the ballot, no matter the partys agenda.

It was a personality vote on the president, not an issue vote, and that doesnt change, Rep. Kevin Yoder of Kansas said of the affluent voters in his Kansas City-area district who voted him out.

This sort of cold-eyed assessment has Republicans expressing concern that more of their colleagues may retire rather than run again in 2020  and that recruiting top-flight candidates could prove more challenging going into the next campaign.

Kinzinger, who is 40, is one of the Republicans mentioned by colleagues as a potential retiree. (He said, I fully intend to run again, but conceded he takes little pleasure in being asked to account for every tweet, every comment Trump makes.)

The concomitant challenge to preventing retirements is convincing those lawmakers who lost to run for their old seats.

Asked why his prospects would be any better in 2020 if his suburban Des Moines voters are again voting on Trumps divisive persona, Rep. David Young of Iowa, who narrowly lost in part because of what he called the Trump effect, was blunt.

Thats why you see a lot of people, myself included  who are asked: Are you going to do it again?  saying: Im just going to wait and watch, Young said.

The midterm thrashing has emboldened some Republican lawmakers to speak out about the partys need to be more reflective of the country, especially now that there are just 13 House Republican women.

Stefanik spoke up at a private caucus meeting, as first reported by The Washington Post, but she conceded she was not sure how much good it did.

I just hope it didnt fall on deaf ears, said the 34-year-old lawmaker. My concern is it did for some.

Other House Republican women are equally frank.

If we dont learn some lessons from this election, we will not be a majority party, said Rep. Ann Wagner of Missouri, who represents suburban St. Louis, calling for a caucus that looks more like America.

But several internal moves since the election have left some of the Republican women concerned their leaders do not fully grasp the importance of promoting diversity.

McCarthy passed over Wagner to install a male successor to Stivers at the National Republican Congressional Committee, according to multiple Republicans briefed on the decision; after dutifully serving on the less-than-desired House ethics panel, Rep. Susan Brooks of Indiana lost her much-desired post on the steering committee, which controls committee assignments, to a male colleague.

Rep. Kay Granger, a long-serving lawmaker from Texas, was nearly denied the ranking member slot on the House Appropriations Committee for a more junior male colleague, winning the post by a single vote on the third ballot, according to two lawmakers familiar with the private vote count.

Asked about the campaign committee post, Wagner would only say she is turning her attention to fashioning a suburban agenda for the party and is not going to wait around for leadership to do the same.

Brooks acknowledged being disappointed about losing her position on the coveted steering committee, but said her larger frustration was that more Republican women did not win this year. She said she would use her PAC, as she has in previous elections, to work on behalf of female candidates.

But the longest-serving Republican woman in the House, Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen of Florida, who is retiring, was more skeptical about the party.

An outspoken critic of Trump who has represented Miami since 1989, Ros-Lehtinen noted that previous party autopsies, like the one after their 2012 presidential loss urging more outreach to women and minorities, only lasted a New York minute.

Turning to walk into the House chamber to cast one of her final votes this week, she noted that many of her remaining colleagues hail from overwhelmingly conservative districts.

Where they stand is how they see the world, Ros-Lehtinen said. And the world is not their congressional district. But thats whos left. So theyre all dug in. I dont expect many changes.

Read more about:Houston's mayor is urging residents to wear colorful socks as they honour George H.W. Bush during a tribute at City Hall in a nod to one of the former president's favourite fashion accessories.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner says the Monday evening event will be in front of City Hall and feature music and community leaders. Turner says those in attendance should "wear their own colorful socks."

Bush often sported bright socks at public events, sometimes with loud and unusual patterns. Bush died Friday at his Houston home at age 94.

His casket was being transported to Washington on Monday for a state funeral later this week.

Family spokesperson Jim McGrath tweeted Monday that Bush "will be carried to his final rest" wearing grey socks saluting the Armed Forces. He says the socks pay tribute to Bush's "lifetime of service," which started when he was an 18-year-old Naval aviator during World War II.

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Read more about:In front of a sold-out crowd at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Saturday night, Michelle Obama looked like a woman who had it all. The Ivy League-educated former first lady, mother of two and now bestselling author was met with thunderous applause as she walked onstage to promote her recently released memoir, Becoming.

But in a brief moment of uninhibited candour  complete with some spontaneous swearing  that set the internet ablaze, Obama said the belief that women can have it all is a lie, and voiced an unexpectedly frank rebuke of Facebook Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandbergs controversial strategy of leaning in.

Its not always enough to lean in because that s-- doesnt work all the time, she reportedly said.

Obamas blunt assessment came as she was discussing how women can achieve the balance in life that allows for a successful career and marriage, New York magazine reported.

Marriage still aint equal, yall, Obama said, according to Vanity Fair. It aint equal. I tell women that whole you can have it all  mmm, nope, not at the same time, thats a lie.

Then, in what may be an unprecedented slip-up, Obama said the line that threw the audience and internet into a frenzy.

Upon hearing her utter a profanity, the packed 19,000-seat arena lost it, erupting in cheers and laughter. Many on social media praised Obama for being real about the struggles working women face.

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Tattoo it on my body! one Twitter user wrote about Obamas words.

The uncharacteristic remark even appeared to catch Obama off-guard.

Author and political commentator Toure Neblett tweeted that everyone freaked out ... Michelle, too. Neblett added that Obama quickly apologized before saying, I forgot where I was for a moment.

I thought we were at home, yall, Obama said, according to Vanity Fair. I was gettin real comfortable up in here.

After reassuring the crowd she was back now, Obama offered a censored version of her earlier statement, swapping the swear word out for stuff, Vanity Fair reported.

While Obamas accidental use of an expletive swiftly became all anyone could talk about, several people pointed out that her candid criticism of leaning in had much greater significance.

Thank you [Michelle Obama] for being so real about the pressures we face as working mothers and reminding us all that just being ourselves is more than good enough! one person wrote on Twitter.

Leaning in was first popularized in 2013 by Sandberg, the now-embattled Facebook executive, in her book titled, Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead. Sandberg, described in a Washington Post review of the book as a self-avowed feminist who wants to transform the role of women in the workplace, encouraged women to assert themselves at work and in their communities to avoid ending up in subordinate positions. The concept is linked to the ambitious idea that women, as long as they try, can be successful at home and at work.

Since its debut, the lean in philosophy has been met with mixed success. Sandbergs book sold more than 4 million copies worldwide and occupied a spot on the New York Times bestseller list for more than a year. It spawned a non-profit bearing the same name founded by Sandberg and hundreds of Lean In circles, groups of women who meet regularly to discuss Sandbergs advice. The circles have been touted as one of the few places in the world where women can be overtly, unapologetically ambitious, according to the New York Times.

However, many argue that leaning in can place too much pressure on women to take action instead of pushing for workplaces to change.

Connie Schultz wrote in the 2013 Post review that Sandbergs book is full of good intentions, but added that the advice sounds like a prescription for how to lean in until you collapse from exhaustion.

In a 2017 interview with USA Today, four years after Lean In first published, Sandberg said that even though women were galvanized, she was not seeing a change in business and politics.

In terms of women in leadership roles, we are not better off, she said, noting that women occupied less than 6 per cent of Fortune 500 CEO jobs and their global equivalents, and the number of countries run by women had decreased.

She continued: Overall, we are not seeing a major increase in female leadership in any industry or in any government in the world, and I think thats a shame.

Support for leaning in has been further hampered by the #MeToo movement, wrote Sarah Seltzer in a December 2017 piece for the Nation.

#MeToo stories have revealed a staggering, industry-spanning problem with workplace misogyny, Seltzer wrote, adding that telling women, not workplaces, to change has suffered what may amount to a death blow this year.

Its become glaringly clear in these past weeks that, far from merely balancing work, life, and gendered expectations, women working in industries from glamorous-seeming Hollywood to crowded restaurant kitchens have been navigating a brutal minefield of harassment, abuse, and inappropriate behaviour  not to mention plain old sexism and bullying  in order simply to keep their jobs, never mind advance in their careers, she wrote.

More recently, leaning in and Sandbergs leadership were placed under additional scrutiny after controversy erupted around Facebook and Russian interference in the 2016 election.

Sandbergs failure at Facebook exposes an emptiness at the heart of the argument that made her famous, wrote Post columnist Molly Roberts, following a November New York Times report that Sandberg and other Facebook executives had tried to cover up Russians using the site to promote propaganda.

On social media, Obamas words were met with widespread approval.

This is perfect, tweeted writer and activist Amy Siskind.

As a wife, mother, entrepreneur and philanthropic leader.....I felt EVERY word of that sentence, another Twitter user wrote.

One person tweeted that while she may not agree politically ... as a woman who has given her all to being a wife, mother and successful professional I agree with Michelle Obama 100% on this.

But some people took offence to Obamas unintentional cursing, calling her classless.

Read more about:CHICAGOInside a cramped and worn courtroom, three white police officers are on trial in connection with the fatal shooting of a black teenager, Laquan McDonald. But these officers never fired their guns. Their crime, prosecutors say, was concocting a story to cover up for a colleague who did.

As prosecutors tell it, Chicago police officers shooed away eyewitnesses after the shooting on Oct. 20, 2014, and then made up a narrative to justify the shooting. They said in official reports that the teenager had tried to stab three officers, and that he had tried to get up from the ground as 16 shots were being fired into him.

The only hitch? Dash cam video footage of the encounter contradicted their account.

Patricia Brown Holmes, a special prosecutor trying the three officers on charges of conspiracy, official misconduct and obstruction of justice, told a judge last week: Instead of serving and protecting all citizens of Chicago, the defendants tried to protect only one  Jason Van Dyke, the police officer who was convicted this fall of second-degree murder in the shooting.

On trial along with the officers is the code of silence that police officers across the country have been accused of operating under. In Chicago, the issue has been around for decades, bubbling up in recent years in cases involving a drunk-driving officer, an off-duty officers beating of a bartender and a lawsuit by two police officers who said they faced retaliation after breaking the code.

Every police officer has seen the code of silence in action, said Lorenzo Davis, a former Chicago officer who rose through the ranks to commander over a career of more than two decades. He was later an investigator for an oversight agency of the police department, and was awarded $2.8 million (U.S.) by a jury this year after suing the city, saying he had been fired from the agency because he refused to change his findings concerning police shootings that he deemed unjustified.

Read more:

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By Mr. Daviss description, the code of silence can be subtle. An officer, even one who was close by, may say that he didnt see what happened at a crucial moment. And the penalties can be frightening: colleagues may not arrive as quickly to help an officer in danger who is considered a snitch.

The code of silence works a lot like a family situation, Mr. Davis said. You cannot tell on your family members. You just know that. No one has to tell you that. If you have a partner, youre going to back up your partner.

The president of the police union in Chicago, Kevin Graham, said through a spokesman that no such code of silence exists, calling the claim nonsense. How the special prosecutor can construe a code of silence theory defies belief, Mr. Graham said after the charges against the three officers were announced.

And Eddie Johnson, the superintendent of the Chicago Police and a 30-year veteran of the force, said this year  in a sworn deposition related to a separate police shooting lawsuit  that he was unaware of any such code. Through a spokesman, Superintendent Johnson declined to elaborate on the matter this week, citing limits on speaking with reporters that were set by the judge in the trial of the three officers.

But Mayor Rahm Emanuel has acknowledged the existence of a code. In late 2015, in the days after Chicagoans first saw damning video of the shooting of Laquan McDonald  video that the city had fought to keep out of public view  the mayor called for major changes in policing in a speech at City Hall. Facing demands for his resignation, Mr. Emanuel condemned what he said was sometimes called a code of silence or a thin blue line.

It is the tendency to ignore, it is a tendency to deny, it is a tendency in some cases to cover up the bad actions of a colleague or colleagues, Mr. Emanuel said in the emotional speech.

Mr. Emanuels remarks joined a series of disclosures, court findings and report conclusions in recent years that have drawn attention to a code of silence in Chicago, and, some say, have set off a gradual process of dismantling it.

In 2012, a federal jury awarded $850,000 to Karolina Obrycka, a bartender who was beaten by an off-duty Chicago police officer, Anthony Abbate, in an incident that was caught on security video. Ms. Obrycka asserted in her lawsuit that a broad code of silence in Chicago had emboldened Mr. Abbates behaviour.

The city reached a $2 million settlement in 2016 with two officers  Shannon Spalding and Daniel Echeverria  who said they experienced retaliation after exposing a fellow officer who was accused of shaking down drug dealers and of framing people who would not go along with other crimes.

And in 2017, the Department of Justice issued a scathing report on the Chicago police that found, in part, that a code of silence was getting in the way of holding officers accountable for misconduct.

For all the attention, though, the attitude that officers back one another up has yet to change, according to Terry Ekl, a lawyer who represented Ms. Obrycka in her suit. The fact of the matter is that a code of silence exists, he said. As long as you and I are alive, its going to be there. It would take the leadership at the top stating that were not going to tolerate this any longer, and if you do this, youll be fired.

In the case playing out now in a Chicago courtroom, the three officers  David March, Joseph Walsh and Thomas Gaffney  have denied that they covered up for the officer who shot Laquan McDonald and tried to make the shooting appear justified.

Mr. March, who has resigned from the department, was the detective assigned to investigate the shooting. James McKay, a lawyer for Mr. March, told Cook County Associate Judge Domenica Stephenson that Mr. March merely carried out his duties. He wrote down what the witnesses told him, Mr. McKay said, adding that Mr. March was not assigned to be a judge and jury of what the officers reported had happened.

Mr. Walsh has also resigned from the department. He was the partner of Mr. Van Dyke, the officer who fired all the shots, on the night of the shooting. Mr. Walshs lawyer, Todd Pugh, said Mr. Walsh had only worked with Mr. Van Dyke once before, suggesting that his client had little reason to cover up for Mr. Van Dyke. If the video footage of the shooting conflicted with the way Mr. Walsh had described the events in reports, it was a matter of different perceptions of the same information based on ones viewpoint, Mr. Pugh said.

Mr. Gaffney was one of the officers who first confronted Laquan McDonald on the evening of the shooting, after police got a report of a man breaking into trucks on the citys Southwest Side. Mr. Gaffney and other officers had followed the teenager, who was carrying a knife and ignoring orders to stop, for several blocks. William Fahy, Mr. Gaffneys lawyer, told the judge that Mr. Gaffney had showed appropriate restraint on the night of the shooting, but was now being charged because the authorities disagree with the report that he wrote. Mr. Fahy described the notion of a conspiracy among the officers to protect Mr. Van Dyke as complete and utter nonsense.

For some, the case has raised another question: Why are only three officers on trial?

Nine officers were at the scene when Officer Van Dyke shot Laquan McDonald, and police officials moved to fire seven officers who they said gave questionable accounts of the shooting. Grand jurors indicted three officers but declined to indict any others.

You have to wonder, where is the brass in all this  where are the top bosses? said Ms. Spalding, one of the officers who sued and received a settlement from the city in 2016.

Ms. Spalding described the trial now underway as a puppet show for the public, to create the appearance that someone was being held accountable for false accounts after Laquan McDonalds death. Youre putting a couple officers on trial, she said. But dont think for one minute that everyone didnt know.It looked as though a couple of police officers went dumpster diving for ornaments.

Hanging from the Christmas tree inside a Minneapolis Police Department precinct were half-crushed cans of Steel Reserve malt liquor and crumpled bags of Takis chips and Funyuns. There was a cup from the fried-chicken joint Popeyes and two packs of Newport cigarettes  pieces of actual garbage accented by a single strip of yellow crime-scene tape that didnt quite cut it as tinsel.

If the police thought the scene was a joke, nobody was laughing.

These pieces of trash were deliberately chosen to represent how certain officers feel about the community they serve: that Black people are a stereotype to be mocked and the lives of those they serve may as well be reduced to trash in the gutter, said City Councilman Phillipe Cunningham in a Facebook post. He represents constituents in the majority-black Near North neighbourhood where the MPDs Precinct 4 is located.

The two Minneapolis police officers who created the display were placed on leave Friday in response to fierce backlash from both the African-American community and public officials, including Mayor Jacob Frey who, in a statement, described the tree as racist, despicable, and well beneath the standards of any person who serves the city of Minneapolis.

The tree, beyond being seen as a racist dog-whistle, as longtime civil rights activist Roy Edwards described it, also rekindled simmering distrust between police and Minneapolis black community.

Three years ago, community organizers led an 18-day occupation outside the fourth precinct station to protest the fatal shooting of Jamar Clark, a 24-year-old black man. Since then, activists said at a press conference Friday, they had hoped police would be doing everything possible to improve their relationship with the Near North Minneapolis community, rather than seeming to go out of their way to strain it.

I just could not believe that after everything weve been through to try to change the narrative about the African-American community, that our police officers still held that same mindset, Black Lives Matter Twin Cities activist Chauntyll Allen said at the news conference. They have no respect for the lives that have been lost.

Cunningham and Minneapolis Board of Education member KerryJo Felder were among the first public officials to sound off about the tree after hearing complaints and seeing photos flood social media. Cunningham said Friday on Facebook that he learned from speaking with an MPD inspector that every year an officer is assigned tree-decorating duties. This year, Cunningham said, two officers decided to hang the inappropriate ornaments as a prank.

They hurt EVERY gain made in improving community-police relations, Cunningham wrote on Facebook. On a personal level, despite being a [Council Member], I am still a Black man myself and these outrageous reminders only further my own feeling [of being] generally unsafe around police officers.

At first, Frey was so incensed that he vowed the officers responsible would be fired by the end of the day.

Termination, he wrote, is necessary  both to discipline the officer and to send a clear message: [Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo] and I will not tolerate conduct that departs from our values. But within hours, Frey walked back the statement after realizing there is a legally required process that must be followed before an officer can be discharged, his spokesman, Mychal Vlatkovich, told the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

Arradondo, describing the Christmas tree as a racially insensitive display, said in a statement that he was ashamed and appalled by the behaviour of the two officers involved. He said a full investigation had been launched.

Edwards, the civil-rights activist who has lived in Minneapolis since the 1940s, told The Washington Post that what the community needs to see is a black officer in charge of Precinct 4. Racial insensitivity training, he said, will only do so much. And for those who questioned what was so racially insensitive about the bag of Takis and the fried-chicken fast-food cup, Edwards said those who lived in the neighbourhood didnt need to ask.

These policemen are well familiar with what racism is, he said. They knew exactly what they were doing when they decorated the tree.KYIV, UKRAINEUkraines president on Monday announced a partial call-up of reservists for training amid tensions with Russia, saying the country needs to beef up its defences to counter the threat of a Russian invasion.

The Kremlin dismissed the Ukrainian leaders statement as an absurd attempt to inflame tensions.

Relations between the two neighbours have been strained further following a Nov. 25 incident in which the Russian coast guard fired upon and seized three Ukrainian naval vessels and their crews off the Crimean Peninsula that Russia annexed from Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko responded by introducing martial law for 30 days in much of Ukraine. For the duration of martial law, Ukrainian authorities barred entry to all Russian males aged 16 to 60 in a move the Ukrainian leader said was needed to prevent Russia from further destabilizing the country.

Poroshenko said Monday that some reservists will be summoned for training as part of martial law. He also said that some military units will be redeployed to strengthen the nations defences.

Ukraine is taking its own steps in response to the threat of a large-scale Russian invasion, the Ukrainian leader said.

Read more:

Russia starts prosecuting Ukrainians after sea clash

After dispute with Russia, Ukraine to impose martial law

Ukraine and Russia trade blame over naval incident as tensions rise in the Black Sea

Over the weekend, Poroshenko said that Russia has deployed a large number of troops along its border with Ukraine and alleged that the Kremlin intends to push inland into Ukraine. Ukraine also accused Russia of blockading its ports on the Sea of Azov.

Russian President Vladimir Putins spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, dismissed Poroshenkos claims as an absurd attempt to foment tensions.

The accusations against Russia have no basis whatsoever, he said.

Peskov also rejected Kyivs claim that Russia was blocking traffic to and from Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov, saying that navigation has continued normally except for occasional breaks because of bad weather.

The separatist conflict in eastern regions forming Ukraines industrial heartland has taken a toll on the national economy, reducing the cargo flow through the Ukrainian ports of Mariupol and Berdyansk on the Sea of Azov. The naval incident further stoked tensions.

Vitaliy Sinhur, a dock worker in Berdyansk, said the movement of ships has significantly ebbed.

Amid the tensions, the Russian military said its forces in Crimea were conducting drills involving Bal and Bastion long-range anti-ship missile systems.

Over the weekend, Poroshenko urged Germany and other Western allies to boost their naval presence in the Black Sea to help deter Russia from further aggression.

Ukraines deputy defence minister, Anatoliy Petrenko, said the country is talking to its Western partners to respond to Russias escalatory actions.

The U.S. and its NATO allies have strongly urged Russia to free the Ukrainian vessels and the crews.

There is no justification for this use of force, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters Monday. Russia must release the Ukrainian sailors and ships. It must also allow freedom of navigation and unhindered access to Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov.

NATO foreign ministers are set to discuss the incident later this week.

Asked what action NATO could take, Stoltenberg said: We provide strong political but also strong practical support to Ukraine.

He added that NATO allies have helped modernize Ukraines armed forces, have boosted their presence in the Black Sea over the last year, with more ships deployed in the region and more air policing.

In the Nov. 25 incident, three Ukrainian naval vessels were heading from the Black Sea into the Sea of Azov when they were blocked by the Russian coast guard near the Kerch Strait between Russias mainland and Crimea. After many tense hours of manoeuvring, the Russians opened fire and seized the Ukrainian vessels and 24 crew members.

The Ukrainian seamen have been put in custody for two months pending Russias investigation into the clash.

Ukraine and Russia have traded blame for the naval incident that further escalated the tug-of-war that began in 2014 when Russian annexed Crimea and backed separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine.

Ukraine says that its ships were operating in line with a 2003 treaty with Russia envisaging free navigation for vessels of both countries in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait.

Russia is adamant that the Ukrainian ships had entered its waters without permission.

Later this week, the Ukrainian parliament is expected to mull a presidential bill blocking the extension of a friendship treaty after it expires next April, a long-anticipated symbolic move.

Poroshenko has said he tried to arrange a phone call with Putin to discuss the standoff but faced the Kremlins refusal.

Peskov said Monday that no such conversation is planned.

Read more about:In an attack on a Jewish school in Toulouse in 2012, a rabbi and three children were murdered. In 2014 a synagogue was firebombed in Dusseldorf by a Muslim seeking vengeance for Israels action in Gaza. In 2015 four Jews were slaughtered at a deli in Paris.

In the same year a gunman attacked the synagogue in Copenhagen killing one person. Last year a Molotov cocktail was thrown into the synagogue in Gothenburg, Sweden. Earlier this year there was an attempt to burn down the synagogue in the English town of Exeter.

Brendan ONeill, the editor of the online publication spiked, listed these events in an article he wrote last October to make the point that the recent massacre of worshippers during a service in a synagogue in Pittsburgh was one of several horrendous incidents in the last years. Anti-Semitism, he wrote, has been growing and becoming increasingly militarized for more than a decade now, among the left as the right and within Muslim communities, too.

Reflecting on what has been written and said around the world after the Pittsburgh massacre, ONeill wrote that many observers are more interested in shaming and weakening Trump than they are in truly getting to grips with the new anti-Semitism. He didnt seek to defend Trump but made the point that the current wave of anti-Semitism around the world has much deeper roots and goes far beyond the antics of the president of the United States.

The negative reaction to Trumps presence by many who came to mourn the victims in Pittsburgh suggests something very different. The mourners wouldnt dispute, of course, that Jews in other synagogues and Jewish institutions around the world have also been attacked, but they may nevertheless feel that the present political climate in the United States breeds anti-Semitism.

Thus Peter Beinart, professor of journalism at the City University of New York, argues in an article published last month in The Atlantic that anti-Semitism is an inevitable byproduct of the nativist conservatism being championed by President Trump.

Prof. Simon Schama, the distinguished British-born historian and broadcaster, who has lived in the United States since the 1980s, speaking recently in Montreal is reported to have said that anyone who thinks anti-Semitism is not part of U.S. politics today is in denial. According to a report in The Canadian Jewish News, Schama called Trump wicked because of his attacks on George Soros that are almost invariably tainted with anti-Semitism.

Soros, the marginal Jew, has become in the eyes of power hungry potentates the epitome of Jewish power. Writing in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Scott A. Shay suggested that anti-Semitism is often a tool of those who themselves harbour projects of domination and exploitation, but who fearing to be exposed, project their own malevolent intentions onto Jews.

Trump may have a Jewish daughter and Jewish grandchildren, but his desire to dominate and exploit may turn him, or has already turned him, into an anti-Semite. Those distressed by his visit to Pittsburgh probably sensed it.

Christopher Browning, renowned Holocaust historian, also sees the re-emergence of anti-Semitism in the West in its larger and very alarming context. Browning compares current authoritarian political leaders with whom Trump has established seemingly cordial relations with dictators of the 1930s and warns of troubling similarities.

He concludes: Trump is not Hitler and Trumpism is not Nazism, but regardless of how the Trump presidency concludes, this is a story unlikely to have a happy ending.

And before the story ends were likely to witness many more incidents of the kind described in the opening paragraph of this column. Start worrying: details to follow.

Dow Marmur is rabbi emeritus of Toronto's Holy Blossom Temple and a freelance contributor for the Star.

Read more about:MONTREALPolitical goodwill could be in short supply when the first ministers gather in Montreal on Friday. Much has changed  mostly for the worse for federal-provincial harmony  since Prime Minister Justin Trudeau last presided over the same gathering a bit more than a year ago.

Over the 14-month interval between the two conferences, voters forced three of Trudeaus staunchest Liberal allies in Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick into retirement.

Some of the provincial leadership changes  starting with the advent in Ontario of a Tory government hostile to Trudeaus plan to put a price on carbon pollution  have resulted in a major realignment in the federal-provincial climate-change debate.

The Conservative governments of Ontario, Manitoba and New Brunswick have joined what initially started off as a rearguard Saskatchewan legal battle against a federal carbon tax.

And Albertas NDP government  once a solid Trudeau ally  has withdrawn its support for the plan in protest over the stalled pipeline agenda.

From a fight mostly taking place in the Prairies, the battle over the federal climate change framework is now being fought on a variety of regional fronts. Trudeaus gamble that more carbon pricing would make new pipelines more palatable and vice-versa is not panning out.

As the result of irreconcilable political differences over the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion between Canadas two NDP governments, a war of words, assorted with threats of trade retaliation, has erupted between Alberta and British Columbia.

The Alberta/B.C. bad blood over pipelines could yet spill over to central Canada as a result of a joint effort on the part of Conservative leaders and premiers to resuscitate the Energy East pipeline.

The defunct TransCanada project was very unpopular in Quebec and the provinces previous Liberal government was not sorry to see the company abandon it. Champions of the plan to link the Alberta oilfields to the Atlantic Coast believe it could yet be executed if only incoming Quebec premier Francois Legault would get on board.

But it is hard to think of a move that could do more to poison the well of the rookie Coalition Avenir Quebec government than the premier jumping on the pipeline bandwagon.

The theme of Fridays meeting is the economy with CUSMA, the just-signed NAFTA agreement, on the agenda. But inasmuch as the provincial and federal forces aligned against Trudeaus climate-change policy are determined to fight carbon pricing on economic grounds, the issue is bound to overshadow the discussion.

It probably wont help that a majority of Fridays participants  starting with some of the remaining Trudeau-friendly premiers  are in delicate political positions.

Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador and Alberta will all go to the polls over the next 12 months. The premiers of B.C. and New Brunswick both lead fragile minority governments whose life expectancy is uncertain.

Trudeau himself is in the last year of his first term. It is a time in the cycle when the reserve of political capital of a prime minister tends to be in dire need of an electoral refill. The hand he brings to his fifth first ministers gathering is weak  especially by comparison to the freshly elected premiers of Quebec and Ontario.

On that score the prime minister is fortunate that Legault and Doug Ford are not on the same page on carbon pricing. Or that the relationship between the two got off to a rocky start as a result of the Ontario premiers treatment of the Franco-Ontarian community.

When the Liberals came to power three years ago, more than 80 per cent of Canadians lived in jurisdictions that already met or were well on the way to meeting the initial targets set in Trudeaus climate-change strategy.

Since then, there has been a reversal of the trend, with the provinces that are non-compliant with the federal plan accounting for a majority of the population. And that means that next fall, Trudeaus Liberals will be campaigning for re-election in those provinces against the backdrop of a recently introduced federal carbon tax.

One has to go back to the Meech Lake Accord in the late eighties to find the last provincial consensus on a policy central to the agenda of a prime minister and possibly to the fortunes of his party unravel in the way the first ministers support for Trudeaus climate change approach has over the past three years.

The current prime ministers climate-change framework is one of the most ambitious attempts at federal-provincial policy-making since Brian Mulroneys spectacular constitutional failures. It may yet prove to be as polarizing.

Chantal Hebert is a columnist based in Ottawa covering politics. Follow her on Twitter: @ChantalHbert

Read more about:Independent MPP Amanda Simard, who has made headlines for breaking with Premier Doug Fords government over Tory cuts to French-language services, is in no rush to join the Liberals.

I have not had any discussion with any members of the Liberal party at this point so I dont see what the big fuss is about, Simard told the Star in an interview Monday.

But the Glengarry-Prescott-Russell MPP said she feels like the Progressive Conservatives spit in my face by eliminating the independent French-language watchdog and cancelling a proposed francophone university.

They betrayed me. I was parliamentary assistant and not only did I not know, I was not consulted on the decision. I wasnt even informed, she said, adding theres disconnect between the PC government and Ontarios 622,000-member Franco-Ontarian community.

Simard, who took her concerns to Ford, said the Tories effectively forced her out last Wednesday when they stopped her from speaking to a motion by NDP Leader Andrea Horwath on support for French services.

They prevented me from speaking and then they refused to record my vote, which didnt even change the final result, the rookie MPP said of the largely symbolic motion the PC majority defeated.

I do feel I was pushed out in a way because they didnt want me to do my job anymore. We dont feel free to say anything. I do feel like this was a slap in the face, she said.

Youve got to do whats right for your riding. I didnt go to law school ... let alone get elected to clap when Im told.

That led her last Thursday morning to quit the Tory caucus and sit as an Independent.

I didnt even think about where I was going to go after. I just thought this is so wrong. My constituents are very happy. They feel ... we elect people to speak out and if they dont do that, theres no point (in MPPs), we should just be electing a premier.

Interim Liberal leader John Fraser confirmed there have been no formal discussions with Simard about her joining his seven-member caucus.

Its like leaving your family. Shes just left her family  its a really tough decision. Shes got to decide what she wants to do and we respect that, said Fraser.

Still, the jittery government is rushing a change to official party status in the legislature amid fears Simard will join the Liberals.

Even though legislation would have passed later this week increasing the threshold to 12 MPPs from eight, the Conservatives added a motion to the order paper to expedite the change.

With official party recognition comes increased funding for research and more status during the daily question period.

Government House Leader Todd Smith proposed the recognized party means a party that has a recognized membership of at least 10 per cent of the total number of seats in the assembly.

Smiths motion, which passed later Monday, spoke to the urgency of the issue for the government.

With 124 members of the legislature the bar for official standing is now 12 MPPs.

Over the weekend, there were protests in support of the Franco-Ontarian community at Tory MPPs constituency offices across the province.

Francophone Affairs Minister Caroline Mulroney, who has defended the cuts, said the Tories appreciate their views.

This weekend, there were thousands of Franco-Ontarians and francophones who have demonstrated and our government has listened. We are here to listen and we are here to represent the interests of Franco-Ontarians, said Mulroney.

We were elected with a mandate for all Ontarians, including Franco-Ontarians. We will protect linguistic rights, she said.

In Quebec City, the green-and-white Franco-Ontario flag has been flying at the National Assembly.

Read more:

Franco-Ontarians protest Ford government cuts to services for French-speakers

Tory MPP Amanda Simard breaks ranks over French-language cuts

Opinion | Cuts to French-language services hurt us all

Robert Benzie is the Stars Queens Park bureau chief and a reporter covering Ontario politics. Follow him on Twitter: @robertbenzie

Read more about:Well, that was fast.

Just a few days after we reported on the removal of signs warning of two hard-to-see fire hydrants on University Ave., they miraculously were restored to their rightful place last Friday.

They were taken down last summer, replaced by signs indicating that one taxi can park in front of the hydrants, after city council approved a pilot project to create more parking for taxis.

But it inadvertently recreated a situation that existed until a couple years ago  nothing to alert drivers about two hydrants set so far back from the curb that theyre often overlooked by people searching for parking.

One of the hydrants on University, south of Armoury St., was among the juiciest ticket traps in Toronto, yielding the city nearly $300,000 in ticket revenue between 2008 and 2013.

We were skeptical about the need to remove the warning signs just because new taxi signs had to go up. So we asked Allen Pinkerton, whos in charge of traffic signs and markings, if both signs could fit on the same pole. Yep, he said, adding hed talk to his staff about it.

A couple days later we got a note from David Kuperman of transportation services, saying the warning signs will be reinstated at these locations on University Ave.

Holy doodle, what a climbdown.

The next day we got a call from a guy named John Tory  yes, that guy  a regular Fixer reader who occasionally rings us up when something in our column lights him up.

I shook my head, the mayor said, recalling that after we wrote about the ticket traps in 2016, he played a role in getting the warning signs put up by offering, uh, cheerful support to city officials.

So when I read that they took them back down, I thought, Thats crazy. Im always polite in my dealings with staff, but I did encourage them to put them back up.

However it happened, a bunch of common sense seems to have kicked in, and right quick. The buzzing bees who issue tickets will have to find another honey pot.

And more to come soon on allowing taxis to park in front of hydrants at various downtown locations.ALTON  Alton Police Department officers are sometimes summoned to area stores to thwart Grinchy shoplifters, but officers on Saturday got to take part in a decidedly more positive shopping experience.

Members of the Police Benevolent and Protective Association (PB&PA) Alton Unit 14 took children on a shopping spree at Target for their annual Shop With A Cop outreach. Students are selected by social workers within the Alton School District. Approximately 50 students were selected to participate this year.

The police union recognized Alton Middle School sixth-grade math teacher Brian Zurek, who continues to organize different fundraising events within the Alton School District to donate towards this program. Members of the staff could pay to wear jeans on certain days, and students paid money to dress up during spirit week, with a chance to win prizes for the best outfit. Union officials also thanked Heartland Baptist Church and the Piasa Rifle Club for their continued donations towards this program.

Target Store Manager Kenya Davis and her staff were also recognized for the great work that they do preparing for, executing, and their donations for this event.

The PB&PA Alton Unit 14 holds an annual Policemans Ball, complete with a dinner and silent auction, in the spring, which raises money that supports the Alton Police Youth Camp, Shop With A Cop, Food Basket Distribution, area youth events, and other charitable giving throughout the year. The PB&PA Alton Unit 14 also thanked its 2018 Chief Level Sponsors: Alton Materials, Ameren Illinois, Fast Eddies Bon Air, and Robert Bob Sanders Waste Systems Inc., as well as individuals and other businesses who contribute throughout the year.

If you would like to contribute to support any of these charitable events, please mail a check to: Alton Police Youth Camp, PO Box 861, Alton, Illinois 62002.

The Alton Police Youth Camp is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3), organization run by the members of the PB&PA Alton Unit 14. Information can be found at www.facebook.com/pbpa14.STAUNTON  Residents in central Illinois on Sunday assessed the damage after rare December tornadoes, including one the day before that was a half-mile-wide, ripped roofs off homes in Taylorville, downed power lines and injured at least 20 people.

The severe weather in Illinois was part of a line of thunderstorms that raked areas of the central U.S. late Friday and into Saturday, killing one person in Missouri. The National Weather Service confirmed tornadoes in Illinois, Missouri and Oklahoma.

In Madison County, County Classic Cars in Staunton suffered damage, including buildings being destroyed and having debris littered on the vehicles parked along the interstate. Further north on Interstate 55, Litchfield also had tornadoes touch down near Lake Lou Yaeger.

At least three tornadoes were confirmed in northwest and southwest Arkansas, which largely caused property and structural damage. No injuries or fatalities were reported.

Peak months for tornadoes in much of the Midwest are April and June, according to the weather service. But at least 12 tornadoes were reported in Illinois on Saturday, including the Taylorville tornado, which has been confirmed. If the majority are confirmed, that would be the most tornadoes in Illinois in a December storm since Dec. 18-19, 1957, when there were 21.

The weather service sent crews Sunday to survey the hardest-hit areas in Illinois, which included Taylorville, 25 miles (40 kilometers) southeast of Springfield.

Photographs and video from Taylorville showed several houses flattened, with residents wading into debris to salvage what they could. Some homes remained standing but with gaping holes in the roofs or with no roofs at all.

The tornado was on the ground for around 10 miles (16 kilometers) before it thundered through Taylorville, and the weather service was able to warn residents of its arrival 41 minutes before it actually struck, Chris Miller, a meteorologist at the services Lincoln office, said in a phone interview Sunday. That advanced warning gave people critical time to take cover and may have saved lives.

Assistant Fire Chief Andy Goodall, speaking to reporters Saturday night shortly after the storm pounded the city of 11,000, said at least 100 homes had major damage, including his own, Springfields State Journal-Register reported.

A Taylorville Memorial Hospital spokesman said 21 people, from age 9 to 97, arrived for treatment Saturday. Most were released within hours. Miller said three people remained hospitalized as of Sunday afternoon.

Miller said preliminary estimates are that the Taylorville tornado may have been an EF2, which indicates wind speeds as high as 135 mph. It could take several more days to know for sure.

The weather service said Sunday that a strong tornado that developed from severe thunderstorms Friday night touched down in Van Buren, Arkansas. It was rated an EF2. About 10 minutes later, a second weaker tornado was confirmed less than 10 miles (16 kilometers) away near the town of Rudy, Arkansas.

Damage surveys for the two tornadoes are ongoing but officials said dozens of homes were damaged.

Early Saturday morning a third tornado with estimated peak winds of 107 mph traveled about 8.5 miles (13.5 kilometers) through Spring Hill in southwest Arkansas. Its path was intermittent and mostly caused damage to trees and to some structures.

Associated Press writer Hannah Grabenstein in Little Rock, Arkansas, also contributed to this report.Political discourse in the era of Donald Trump has plunged to new lows.

And when you think youve seen the bottom, someone in government manages to take it lower.

But theres a difference between hyperbole and wishing death on a political opponent and his loved one  and its a line that should never be crossed.

During public debate Tuesday on the Illinois House floor, with cameras rolling to record it for posterity, that line, sadly, was crossed.

To the representative from Lombard, I would like to make him a broth of legionella and pump it into the water system of his loved one so that they can be infected, they can be mistreated, they can sit and suffer by getting aspirin instead of getting properly treated and ultimately die.

Broth of legionella? Loved one? Ultimately die?

State Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, directed those despicable comments toward Rep. Peter Breen, R-Lombard.

Had Breen just committed a crime so egregious, or made comments so heinous, that he deserved to have his and his loved ones lives threatened so callously?

Of course not.

Breen was merely defending Gov. Bruce Rauners amendatory veto of Senate Bill 2481, legislation that sought to increase the monetary cap on claims the state can be forced to pay out to those wronged by Illinois government.

The current cap on claims against state government in the Illinois Court of Claims is $100,000. Senate Bill 2481, filed in the wake of dozens of cases of legionnaires disease at the Quincy Veterans Home, leading to 13 deaths, sought to lift that cap to $2 million. Rauners amendatory veto moved the cap to $300,000.

During debate on an override attempt, Breen, an attorney, questioned how much a $2 million cap would cost taxpayers.

We will now spend more money that could have been spent on education, that could have been spent on actually building the roads, instead of paying off trial lawyers, Breen said. Instead, were going to send the money to them instead of using it for good purposes.

What is a reasonable amount of money at which to cap claims against Illinois state government? I dont know that I can answer that finitely.

Perhaps $100,000 is too low. Perhaps even $300,000 is too low. But Breens questioning of what a $2 million cap will mean long-term for taxpayers isnt just reasonable, its absolutely necessary. Its the kind of scrutiny that all lawmakers should be giving to any legislation that will cost taxpayers more money, especially in near-bankrupt Illinois.

What happened with the spread of legionnaires disease at the Quincy Veterans Home is tragic. How the Rauner administration responded to the outbreak has been criticized and is under investigation  as it should be.

But sympathy for the victims and victims families shouldnt lead to unvetted legislation whose long-term impact on taxpayers is unknown.

Questioning that impact certainly shouldnt result in a death wish to a colleague from across the aisle.

After the backlash, Kifowit made a half-hearted attempt to clarify her comments by saying they were hypothetical and taken out of context. She initially didnt apologize, though she did so Wednesday.

Regardless, her words are her words. Read them again if you have any doubt about what she said. Watch her speak and listen to them on tape.

Ive seen and heard some nasty stuff from under the Dome in Springfield. This is a new low.

House Speaker Michael Madigan should condemn Kifowits comments and sanction her to send a message to other lawmakers that theres no place for this kind of toxic discourse in state government.

Dan McCaleb is editor of Illinois News Network and the digital hub ILNews.org. He can be reached at dmccaleb@ilnews.org.A new governor has been elected and soon after he takes the oath of office in January, he will learn that mathematics can be quite unkind.

The state of Illinois is teetering on the brink of a fiscal chasm.

No state is in worse shape than the Land of Lincoln. None.

J.B. Pritzker is about to learn that he cant just walk into the kitchen of the Governors Mansion and microwave up some cash. Unfunded pension obligations are the main reason for Illinois fiscal ills.

A new legal theory is being pondered by outgoing state Rep. Jeanne Ives, R-Wheaton, that she contends would get the state out from under the pension debt.

It goes like this:

The state entered into illegal contracts when it signed up employees for pensions over the last 40 years. While the state constitution says pensions of public employees cannot be diminished, the constitution also mandates that state legislators pass a budget that they believe to be balanced and the constitution also says Illinois cannot take on more debt unless three-fifths of lawmakers agree.

And yet, Ives contends lawmakers have been well aware that the budgets they have passed each year have not adequately covered anticipated pension obligations. Her contention is that this was a deliberate violation of the balanced budget clause of the state constitution and thus its contract with pensioners is void. She also says that promising payouts without funding them creates a debt obligation that should have received a super-majority vote of the legislature each year, but didnt always.

Longtime statehouse observer Charles Wheeler III is quick to note that the state constitution doesnt require a balanced budget only that lawmakers estimate it to be balanced. The late great state budget director Steve Schnorf, who served under governors Jim Edgar and George Ryan, used to call the practice: playing make believe.

I dont see the Illinois Supreme Court having much of an appetite for taking up Ives legal argument. After all, the court unanimously ruled several years ago that the pension benefits cannot be reduced.

But if the case is somehow argued in the federal courts, this legal argument might prevail, especially with the conservative majority on the U.S. Supreme Court.

Now, youll hear government-worker unions and their advocates say: Public employees paid their fair share while Illinois politicians shorted or skipped the employer contributions required by law, creating the nations largest pension debt.

Id agree with everything in that statement except the part about fair share. A more accurate phrase would be a designated share.

Fair share would imply retirees will get a return commensurate with the amount they invested. And that is just not so.

Take for instance former Homewood Flossmoor school superintendent Laura Murray, who now receives a $315,000 annual pension from the Illinois Teacher Retirement System after retiring at age 57. Wirepoints, an Illinois-based research policy group, estimated that she will receive $9.4 million in benefits during the remainder of her life.

How much did she pay in during her career to receive this benefit? $314,000. She collected more in one year of retirement than she paid in during her entire career. Should we put the fiscal future of the state in jeopardy to make payments such as this? Those of us with 401ks could never dream of that kind of return on our money.

And yet, the state may raise taxes on those anticipating far less generous retirements to pay for these obligations.

Now, some will say a promise is a promise and ought to be kept.

In a perfect world, yes.

But its worth noting that courts routinely allow promises to be broken.

The most sacred promise many of us make is to wed until death do us part. And yet, half of all marriages end with a judge granting a divorce. That is the state saying a promise  even one as sacred as a wedding vow  can be broken.

But even routine business transactions can be voided by a judge. Anyone who has ever been owed something by a business or person who has gone bankrupt can attest to not receiving what they believed was owed to them.

With Republicans in a super-minority status in the upcoming General Assembly, Ives says it may take lawsuits to make their policies heard.

Scott Reeder is a veteran statehouse journalist and a freelance reporter. He can be reached at ScottReeder1965@gmail.com.The National Director (ND) is responsible forthe overall leadership in the development and execution of the country strategy.The ND is accountable to lead, direct, develop and manage Habitat for Humanity(HFH) resources ensuring quality, effectiveness and accountability in line withHFH international policies, protocols and standards. This role is responsiblefor developing the capacity of the National Organization to fulfill thepurposes of Habitat for Humanity Uganda (HFHU). The National Director modelsservant leadership to the National Organization staff, its volunteers andpartners.The Program Officer will serve in a high leveland long-term position that combines both field and management experience. Asthe Program Manager, you lead the overall Jinja program, make a significantcontribution in building up Uganda and have a lasting impact on the country andEast Africa. Your job will be very entrepreneurial, and you will createtangible social good for Ugandan communities. As a key leader, you will getworld-class management exposure and will be connected to an internationalorganization that has staff based across 3 continents. You will work in a trulymulticultural environment and the Uganda team has a very diverse leadershipteam including people from within and outside of Uganda.Arvind Subramanian, the former chief economic adviser to the Government of India, spent a good part of his media-interaction time deflecting one question that is bound to come up even now, when he no more holds that office. Was he consulted on the Narendra Modi government's biggest announcement, the one that would affect every Indian?

In his book, Of Counsel: The Challenges of the Modi-Jaitely Economy, Subramanian seems to suggest that he was not. In excerpts that have been published, the former CEA describes how he was in his office in North Block and watched in a dramatic nationally televised speech, the prime minister announcing that Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes would cease to be legal tender. He calls it a draconian, monetary shockone would not normally use such adjectives to describe a move one has suggested or approved. And he has referred to much of the details of its immediate, short term and medium term impact on the economy, the details that he mentioned in subsequent Economic Surveys.

But it is the question he raisesand answersthat give the impression of him supporting the government on this move. Why was demonetisation so popular politically if it imposed economic costs? He also believes it was an electoral vote winner in the short term (in the Uttar Pradesh elections of early 2017), and wonders if it would be so if the currency ban had imposed so much of hardship on so many people. He even calls the result a verdict on demonetisation!

At the end of the chapter, Subramanian says there may be other, completely different explanations that may have eluded my understanding of demonetisation.... And he seems right in saying so.

He talks of anecdotal evidence. One he has missed out, particularly in the UP elections result context, is the fact that demonetisation resulted in a cash crunch among the BJP's political rivals in India's most populous state. Leaders from the Congress, the Samajwadi Party and the BSP have informally said as much. The BJP, on the other hand, had rallies that smelt of money as much as sweating people who thronged to hear Prime Minister Modi, BJP president Amit Shah, and many others speak.

Way before the assembly elections, the BJP did virtually sweep Uttar Pradesh in the summer of 2014. But that was when Modi was an alchemist turning everything into gold. But by early 2017, people were disillusioned with not seeing the achche din, the promised jobs, or even the black money that he would bring back to India, and put into each Jan Dhan and other savings bank accounts.

Or did UP electorate vote the BJP soon after the note ban in the naive hope that the moneyRs 2 lakhs to Rs 15 lakhswould come once the demonetisation led to the recovery of black money?

Other points made by the brilliant professor as he discusses demonetisation, and how Indians weathered it, are more than obvious.

The book, slated to be launched in India formally on December 9, is bound to see Subramanian discuss other equally important issues.Touched by the compassion of the nurses who tended to her...Qatar announced on Monday that it was withdrawing from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), the world's most influential energy cartel, by January 2019.

Saad al-Kaabi, Qatar's Energy Minister, made the announcement. Al-Kaabi claimed the move to leave OPEC was part of its strategy to enhance its international role by focusing on its gas industry. Qatar is one of OPEC's smallest producers, but is the world's largest supplier of LNG.

Al-Kaabi said Qatar would still attend an OPEC meeting in Vienna on December 6-7 to discus cutting supplies. Al-Kaabi noted the decision to leave OPEC was motivated by the fact that Qatar's influence on the cartel was limited even though it had been a member for decades.

Qatar plans to increase LNG production from 77 million tonnes to 110 million tonnes annually. Al-Kaabi stressed the move to leave OPEC was not related to the ongoing political and economic boycott against it by Saudi Arabia, a major OPEC decision maker, and its regional allies.The Supreme Court on Monday will consider a petition by Malayalam actor Dileep, accused in the 2017 actress attack case, seeking access to a memory card that contains the images of the horrific crime.

In his petition to the top court, the actor claimed that he has the right to access the images, considered to be the crucial evidence in the case.

Dileep had alleged that these images have been doctored 'to trap' him. Former Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi's junior Ranjeeta Rohatgi moved the plea for Dileep in SC.

Earlier, the actor had moved lower courts and the Kerala High Court seeking the memory card but in vain. The court had upheld the police contention that evidence cannot be handed over to the accused.

Dileep, who was arrested on July 10, 2017, was granted bail on October 3, after 85 days in custody.

The actor had in June moved the Kerala High Court, seeking a CBI investigation into the case. In his petition, he alleged that the Special Investigation Team of Kerala Police had carried out a 'unfair and biased investigation' in the case.Various organisations working for the Bhopal gas tragedy survivors have accused the Union government of protecting the multinational companies responsible for the gas disaster which killed over five thousand people in December 1984.

According to Rachna Dhingra of the Bhopal Group for Information and Action (BGIA), over eighty per cent of the recommendations of the Supreme Court-appointed monitoring committee for medical rehabilitation of Bhopal victims remain to be implemented. A study conducted by community research unit of the Sambhawana Trust said that majority of the gas victims and those affected by contaminated water around the Union Carbide factory are still suffering.

Rachna said the condition remains grim as the funds meant for providing employment to a hundred thousand survivors and their children are being spirited away for building roads, drains and parks by a minister for his electoral constituency. Funds meant to provide safe housing to victims of ground water contamination are also being diverted for the same purpose, she said.

Earlier addressing a press conference on the 34th anniversary of the industrial disaster, the BGIA and three other organisations accused the Union government of not taking enough action against Union Carbide and Dow Chemicals.

Rashida Bee, president of the Bhopal Gas Peedit Mahila Stationery Karmchari Sangh, said The PMO has not taken a single step to stop Union Carbides disappearance through the tri-furcation of Dow-DuPont that will begin in two months from now. At the PMOs grievance portal our letter of February this year (No. PMOPG/D/2018/0084804) stayed pending for last eight months and last week it has been sent to some Under Secretary in Bhopal who in all likelihood is completely clueless about it. Since May 2014 summons issued repeatedly by the Bhopal District court against Dow Chemical, USA to produce absconding Union Carbide, continue to be ignored. The US governments Department of Justice is obliged to serve the summons on Dow Chemicals under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty signed between India and USA in 1991.

According to Nausheen Khan of Children Against Dow Carbide, poisonous chemicals continue to leach into the groundwater from thousands of tonnes of hazardous waste buried outside the Union Carbide factory. Since 2004 when the Supreme Court took notice of the second environmental disaster in Bhopal, the contamination has spread to 42 communities around the factory with a population of over one hundred thousand. The governments at the state and the Centre have done nothing to make Dow Chemicals clean up the contamination as it is legally obliged to do according to the laws of India and the USA, he said.

Nawab Khan, president of the Bhopal Gas Peedit Mahila Purush Sangharsh Morcha, said In 2010 the Congress government realised that the Bhopal victims had not been adequately compensated and filed a curative petition in the Supreme Court seeking additional compensation of 1.2 billion dollars. However, neither the Congress nor the BJP governments have filed any application for urgent hearing in the last eight years and the curative petition has not moved an inch since it was filed.The Gujarat Police on Monday arrested four persons, including one police officer and two members of the Bharatiya Janata Party, in connection with the alleged leak of the question paper of police constable recruitment examination.

The examination for the Class III grade was to be held on December 2, but was cancelled at the last moment after the authorities got to know about the paper leak.

Nearly 8.75 lakh people were to appear in the examination.

Head of the recruitment board concerned Vikas Sahay said that they had no option but to cancel the examination and that a new date of the test would be announced soon.

Gandhinagar SP Mayur Chavda said that the alleged mastermind, Yashpal Solanki, was yet to be arrested.

According to police, Solanki, a resident of Lunawada and a temporary employee of the Vadodara Municipal Corporation, went to New Delhi and obtained the question paper, apparently with the answers, and flew back to Vadodara on December 1.

Those arrested include police sub inspector of wireless department P.V. Patel, Rupal Sharma, who works in a private firm, and BJP leaders Manhar Patel and Mukesh Chaudhary.

The accused have been booked under various sections of the IPC, including 120 (B) (criminal conspiracy), 206, 209 and 420.

Both Manhar and Mukesh have been suspended from the party with immediate effect. The duo were also to appear in the examination.

Primary investigations have revealed that the arrested policeman's relatives were to appear in the examination and that he was involved in the paper leak.

Police said they had traced Solanki's location and he would be arrested soon.

Even as the opposition Congress lashed out at the government over the paper leak, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani announced that the aspirants would be given the bus fare when they appear for the examination on the new date.

Gujarat state BJP spokesperson Bharat Pandya said that the police was swift to arrest the accused and the party has suspended both Manhar and Mukesh.

While the monetary link has not been established so far, what is heard on the grapevine is that the papers were sold for Rs 5 lakh.

Congress party on Monday staged statewide demonstrations over the paper leak.Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik asserted on Sunday that there was no attempt to tamper with the act governing the permanent residence certificate (PRC) in the state, saying such reports were "frivolous and unfounded".

Malik's remarks came in reply to a letter by National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah, expressing concern over the reports of changes proposed to the procedure of granting permanent residence certificates in the state.

In reply to Abdullah's letter, Malik said his administration is not making, or even considering, any changes to the act.

"At the outset, I would like to mention that the government is not making or even considering any changes to the act governing permanent residence certificate in the state. It is an integral part of the legal structure of Jammu and Kashmir and there is no attempt whatsoever to tamper with this law," the governor wrote in a letter to the NC vice president.

Malik said no changes in the procedural rules governing the issue of permanent residence certificates would ever be done without larger consultations with all stakeholders.

"Consultations are essential, so as to avoid any unnecessary apprehensions in the minds of anyone. To the best of my knowledge, nothing of the sort is being contemplated at the moment nor have any decisions been taken. However, in view of the concerns expressed by you, I will assure you that nothing will be done to modify the procedures for issuing PR certificates," Malik said.

The governor said seeking a PRC is one of the services under Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Guarantee Act of 2011 and as per the act, a PRC by a genuine state subject applicant should be obtained within 30 days from the date of application.

He, however, said it was observed that many genuine applicants face avoidable difficulties in getting a PRC within this timeline.

"There have also been complaints that the issuance of the certificates gets delayed due to a variety of procedural reasons. It is in this context of having a hassle-free process for bonafide applicants that I believe the revenue department has sought comments from few others. This is a routine administrative matter and unnecessary meaning should not be read into it," Malik said.

Malik asked Abdullah to not pay heed to "such frivolous and unfounded reports".

"In fact, you have an obligation to dispel, rather than promote, unnecessary mistrust among people and are always welcome to discuss issues with me, which you have been doing once in a while," he said in the letter to Abdullah.

Malik also pointed out that the fax machine at Raj Bhavan was working and Abdullah's fax had been received and confirmed by his office "while you (Abdullah) were tweeting that it was non-functional".

Abdullah had said the fax machine was not working.

In his response to the governor's letter, Abdullah said he was grateful to Malik for his timely and detailed reply and also pleased to note that no changes were being proposed to the PRC rules.

"Fax received from @jandkgovernor Malik Sahib which I'm sharing here. I'm pleased to note no changes are being proposed to the PRC certificate rules," Abdullah wrote on Twitter.

"This is how a mature democracy functions: we flag our concerns with the person in authority & those concerns are addressed. When we can't meet face to face, we use technology. I'm grateful to @jandkgovernor Malik Sb for his timely & detailed reply," he said in another tweet.

Abdullah said he believed a regular mechanism of discussion and consultation would be beneficial to Jammu and Kashmir as it moved closer to elections.

"@jandkgovernor Malik Sb's assurance of consultation with stakeholders is an important one. I believe a regular mechanism of discussion/consultation will be beneficial to the state as we move closer to elections," Abdullah said.

Earlier, Abdullah in the letter to Malik, said his party would oppose any move aimed at changing the procedure for granting the PRCs in the state.

Senior BJP leader Kavinder Gupta had said the state administration was contemplating to simplify the procedure for grant of PRCs and a timeline should be fixed for its issuance.

Abdullah described the reported directions of the governor-led state administrative council (SAC) in this regard as "an attempt to distort the demography of the state" and "detrimental to Jammu and Kashmir's special status".

"We are obligated to write to you at a time when you are mulling changes to the permanent residence certificate rules. Our party, the National Conference, is of the opinion that this is an attempt to distort the demography of the state and finds it detrimental to Jammu and Kashmir's special status," Abdullah had said in the letter to the governor.

Asserting that the SAC was "unilaterally bringing changes" in the working of institutions and procedures in the state, Abdullah said it was against the principal and spirit of democracy and participative governance.

"The (media) reports say that directions have already been issued to the officials concerned to make changes in the procedure pertaining to the issuance of these certificates," he said.

"It is highly unfortunate that no wider consultations with any political party of the state and other stakeholders were carried out," Abdullah added.

He said "any misadventure could disturb the fragile and precarious peace" in the sensitive state.

"In addition, it is a brazen act to further create mistrust among people here and can have serious ramifications for the prospects of peace and harmony in Jammu and Kashmir," Abdullah said.[December 03, 2018] Cohesity and 1st Security Bank of Washington to Lead Speaking Session at Gartner IT Infrastructure, Operations & Cloud Strategies Conference 2018

Cohesity (News - Alert), the leader of hyperconverged secondary storage, today announced it will host a session titled "Secondary Data. Simplified." at the Gartner IT Infrastructure, Operations & Cloud Strategies Conference, on December 4, in Las Vegas. Co-hosted with 1st Security Bank of Washington, a Cohesity customer, the session details the cost, performance, and data visibility advantages delivered by the Cohesity DataPlatform. In the session, Jon McFarland, IT Systems Administrator at 1st Security Bank of Washington, will join Cohesity's Darrin Chapman to provide a first-hand account of how Cohesity eliminates mass data fragmentation to streamline management of secondary data and apps. Session attendees will learn how the bank simplified its secondary data and apps using Cohesity's unified solution, optimized the performance of its infrastructure using machine learning, and gained data visibility with true global search that enabled them to uncover potential data compliance risks.







WHAT: "Secondary Data. Simplified." WHO: Darrin Chapman, Technical Advocacy Group, Cohesity Jon McFarland, IT Systems Administrator, 1st Security Bank of Washington WHEN: Tuesday, December 4, 2018 at 3:45 p.m. WHERE: Veronese 2404 The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino Las Vegas, Nevada

Cohesity will also be exhibiting at booth #101 on the conference floor, where company executives will demonstrate Cohesity's technology and discuss how its unified, web-scale DataPlatform reduces costs and increases operational efficiency while making it easier to manage and extract insights from data. Conference attendees can also catch a glimpse of Cohesity in action at its Mobile Demo Center, which will be in Las Vegas today, December 3. Housed in an 18-wheeler semi-truck, the Cohesity Mobile Demo Center offers a number of kiosk stations running more than 20 demos for visitors to test drive everything from backup and restore for various applications to automation and management. For more information on the Mobile Demo Center and to catch it on tour, please visit here. About Cohesity Cohesity makes your data work for you by consolidating secondary storage silos onto a hyperconverged, web-scale data platform that spans both private and public clouds. Enterprise customers begin by radically streamlining their backup and data protection, then converge file and object services, test/dev instances, and analytic functions to provide a global data store. Cohesity counts many Global 1000 companies and federal agencies among its rapidly growing customer base and was named to Forbes' "Next Billion-Dollar Startups 2017," LinkedIn's (News - Alert) "Startups: The 50 Industry Disruptors You Need to Know Now," and CRN's "2017 Emerging Vendors in Storage" lists. For more information, visit our website www.cohesity.com and blog https://cohesity.com/blog/, follow us on Twitter (News - Alert) https://twitter.com/cohesity and LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/3750699/ and like us on Facebook (News - Alert) https://www.facebook.com/cohesity/. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005182/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] SK Innovation Announces New Battery Manufacturing Plant in Georgia

SK Innovation, a leading developer of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, announced it will create more than 2,000 jobs and invest $1.67 billion to build a new electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing plant in Georgia. SK Innovation, which is part of SK Group, is making the investment to better compete in the growing global EV battery market. Customers for SK Innovation include Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai-Kia Motors, and this new investment will provide opportunities for SK Innovation to bring its world-class products to additional automakers in the United States. "We are excited to bolster our presence in the United States by making this investment in Georgia," said Jun Kim, CEO of SK Innovation. "SK Innovation is a worldwide leader in the energy industry and this latest investment will allow us to work with the growing automotive industry in the Southeastern United States, ensuring future partnerships for years to come." The new plant will be located in Jackson County, Georgia. Construction will occur in two phases, beginning in early 2019. The first phse will invest approximately $1 billion and employ more than 1,000 advanced manufacturing employees, making it the largest scale electric vehicle battery plant in the United States. SK Innovation leadership worked closely with federal, state and local officials to finalize the investment.



"SK Group's investment in the state of Georgia is undeniable proof that President Trump's economic policies are working for the American economy and American worker," said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. "I am delighted that a world-class technology company such as SK sees the merits of manufacturing in the United States. As similar companies across the world are discovering, there is no better place to do business than right here in America." For decades, SK Group has been building relationships within the United States. It already has significant investments in the U.S. and currently employs nearly 2,000 U.S. workers across 10 states.

About SK Innovation Co., Ltd Established as South Korea's first oil refining company in 1962, SK Innovation engages in diverse areas of business, including exploration and production (E&P), batteries, and information and electronics materials. It owns SK Energy, South Korea's No.1 refining company, SK Global Chemical, the leader in the domestic petrochemical industry, SK Lubricants, a global lubricants company, SK Incheon Petrochem, a refining and chemical company, and SK Trading International, a trader of crude oils and petrochemicals. As part of their management system, SK Innovation pursues the maximization of happiness for all stakeholders. It is for this reason that SK Innovation recognizes the importance of and pays attention to social enterprise, a way to create social values through business. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005133/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 02, 2018] Purdue University Global Hosts Commencement for 350 Graduates

Purdue University (News - Alert) Global, a public nonprofit online institution of higher education, conferred degrees for 350 graduates on December 2 in Hagerstown, Md., recognizing them for their academic achievements and celebrating their success. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181202005066/en/ Christopher Gerena, who earned his bachelor's of science degree in nutrition, addresses the graduating class at the Purdue University Global commencement Dec. 2 in Hagerstown, Md., as Chancellor Dr. Betty Vandenbosch looks on. (Photo: Business Wire) Purdue University Global became Maryland's newest public institution of higher education earlier this year when Purdue University acquired Kaplan University. This expanded Purdue's land-grant mission by providing access to innovative and practical higher education for millions of working adults, personalized to their needs. More than 9,000 Purdue University Global students earned degrees this year with about 2,000 graduates attending nine ceremonies held around the country. In Hagerstown, Dr. Betty Vandenbosch, chancellor of Purdue University Global, conferred the degrees to graduates who travelled from as far away as Uganda and Lebanon to attend the ceremony, which was broadcast on Facebook (News - Alert) Live for family and friends around the world. "Today, you'r crossing one finish line and setting your sights on starting the next stage of your life's journey," she told graduates. "Each of you had a unique path to today that shaped who you were in the classroom, and who you will be in the workforce."



Vandenbosch noted that a little more than 42 percent of the Purdue University Global student body is the first in their family in higher education, and that more than 67 percent have a child or other dependent. Randall Bittinger, one of the student speakers at the ceremony, is a 30-year veteran with Fairfax (Va.) County Fire and Rescue Department who received a promotion to battalion chief as a result of earning his Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Management.

Speaking about his online educational experience, Bittinger noted the value of networking with fellow students from around the world. "I have studied with professionals in numerous careers and different generations. Each student brought with them their own experiences, challenges and support. My fellow classmates ranged from 20-somethings to retired members of the community seeking a second career. There were individuals employed by public and private organizations as well as the United States military. The students also were a cross section of the world, bringing a cultural melting pot to the class. I was humbled and proud to hear of the unique experiences that everyone shared throughout our discussions." Bittinger said he plans to continue his education to earn his Master's degree and hopes to return one day to join the faculty. Graduate and undergraduate degrees were awarded from the schools of Business and Information Technology, Education, Health Sciences, Nursing, and the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. About Purdue Global Purdue University Global is the extreme personalization online university, providing students the competitive edge to advance in their chosen careers. It offers a hyper-tailored path for students to earn an associate's, bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree, based on their work experience, desired pace, military service, previous college credits and other considerations - no matter where they are in their life journey. Purdue Global serves approximately 29,000 students, most of whom earn their degree online. It also operates 14 locations in Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Maryland, Maine, Missouri and Wisconsin. Purdue Global is a nonprofit, public university accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. It is affiliated with Purdue University's flagship institution, a highly ranked public research university located in West Lafayette, Indiana. Purdue University also operates two regional campuses in Fort Wayne and Northwest, Indiana, as well as serving close to 6,000 science, engineering and technology students at the Indiana University-Purdue University (IUPUI) Indianapolis campus. For more information about Purdue Global, please visit www.PurdueGlobal.edu. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181202005066/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 02, 2018] United States Air Force Awards MicroPact Contract to Develop Global Law Enforcement System

MicroPact, the passion and technology that's transforming government, has been awarded a contract to provide an enterprise law enforcement case and incident management system to the United States Air Force (USAF). The Air Force Justice Information System (AFJIS) will be powered by entellitrak, a low-code application development platform for case management. The system will support the law enforcement mission of the USAF Security Forces (SF). It will serve approximately 30,000 security forces personnel worldwide. The multi-year award includes entellitrak licenses, maintenance, and professional services over the course of the contract. It includes licenses for between 10,000 and 15,000 concurrent users around the world. "With this AFJIS award, MicroPact continues to expand our support for the case management needs of the United States Armed Forces," said Kris Collo, Founder, President and CEO of MicroPact. "The entellitrak platform is also being implemented as the Naval Justice Information System (NJIS) for the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. Our experience enables us to provide military organizations around the world with a model to follow when it comes to tracking, investigating, and reporting on law enforcement activities. It is an honor to help the USAF SF ensure the safety nd protection of all USAF personnel and communities."



The USAF SF handles law enforcement and other police services at USAF bases worldwide. The AFJIS solution, built on entellitrak, will provide USAF SF with case and workflow management for a full range of activities associated with law enforcement and criminal justice. For example, AFJIS will act as a single platform to collect and manage the continuous stream of data associated with investigations, as well as helping investigators uncover insights by visualizing and reporting on data from multiple sources. The platform will also be used for overseeing the data regarding people in custody, from booking to release, parole, or probation. Leveraging the extensive capabilities of the entellitrak platform, AFJIS will be able to manage data including base patrol and incident reporting, traffic monitoring, investigations, detention and confinement, reports, and analysis.

The nature of the USAF Law Enforcement mission requires timely reporting and management of all base law enforcement activities and data. The AFJIS solution will leverage the entellitrak Data-First approach to comply with the federally-mandated Defense Incident-Based Reporting System (DIBRS), which details the reporting data elements needed to comply with federal criminal incident reporting. entellitrak is a web-based COTS platform that can be quickly deployed via software configuration rather than custom coding. About entellitrak entellitrak is a low-code application development platform for case management and business process management. Whether based on-premises or in the cloud, its Data-First approach allows it to be implemented immediately and configured continuously, enabling customers to get to work quickly while keeping costs low. About MicroPact For nearly four decades, MicroPact has focused on engineering commercial off the shelf (COTS) solutions for the public sector. Today MicroPact solutions serve 98% of U.S. states, 97% of federal agencies with 500 or more employees, and enjoy a 97% annual renewal rate. MicroPact, the passion and technology that's transforming government. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181202005013/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 02, 2018] 2018 FIDO Taipei Seminar: Latest global trends in authentication and identification technologies

FIDO and Egis Technology co-organized the event TAIPEI, Taiwan, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- 2018 FIDO Taipei Seminar, jointly organized by the FIDO (Fast Identity Online) Alliance and Egis Technology Inc., was held in Taipei on Nov. 30. Themed "No More Passwords", the event brought together professionals from around the world to discuss updates and future trends in authentication and identification technologies with the aim of encouraging Taiwanese stakeholders and government departments to adopt the technologies in line with international standards. Adoption of such technologies opens the way to more business opportunities. The event's key speakers included Egis Technology COO Todd Lin, Office of Board of Science and Technology executive secretary Zse-Hong Tsai, legislator Jason Hsu and Chinese Taipei PKI & e-Authentication Consortium chair Che-Ho Wei. Todd said during his speech that as a board member of FIDO, Egis is committed to broadening Taiwan's international presence via international partnerships and is glad to see increased interest on behalf of stakeholders and the government in authentication and identification applications. FIDO is an industry consortium whose mission is to provide alternatives to passwords in a move to increase network security, while helping companies and organizations cut deployment costs. FIDO wants to heighten interest among Tawanese government departments and stakeholders in the technologies and facilitate their widespread adoption across the Taiwan via the seminar, in a bid to make Taiwan a better, more convenient and safer place to live.



Brett McDowell, Executive Director of FIDO Alliance, gave a brief presentation on the alliance and its operations. FIDO aims to develop specifications that define an open and interoperable set of mechanisms to supplant reliance on passwords in a way that securely authenticates users of online services via technologies such as biometric authentication and security modules. The 250+ member, cross-industry FIDO has received an enthusiastic response from leading international firms. Its two sets of specifications, U2F and UAF, have been widely deployed in China, Japan and South Korea. The alliance has also set up a win-win ecosystem with global partners. The FIDO2 Project continues to expand its reach, with international organizations such as W3C and ITU adopting its recommendations. Brett also shared encouraging news with attendees at the event: On November 28, ITU announced adoption of FIDO2 as part of its international specifications. The original FIDO had already been part of the specifications. Sessions in the morning included FIDO2 case studies presented by Early Warning Service and Microsoft, followed by case studies in Taiwan presented by GoTrust, AuthenTrend, TWCA and Kiwi Technology. GoTrust assisted a Taiwanese bank in implementing the FIDO solution into its mobile app, leading to the number of transactions being handled through the app tripling while overall utilization doubled, thanks to the convenience and added security. AuthenTrend's ATKey.Card, with a built-in USB, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Near Field Communication (NFC) and single-fingerprint enabled authenticator, works for all devices including PCs and can be used as an employee ID badge and location tracker. Kiwi Technology uses FIDO authentication as a key management solution to increase the security of IoT applications.

To bring local attendees up to date on the latest global trends and FIDO's widespread adoption across Asia, during the afternoon session, guests from South Korea, Japan, Thailand and India related the progress of FIDO in their respective countries. Dongpyo Hong, Vice Chairman of FIDO Korea WG, said 31 South Korea-based firms have joined FIDO, making South Korea the leader in terms of the number of companies building FIDO certified products. Since 2013, FIDO specifications have been deployed in the financial, telecom and education sectors as well as in many firms and government departments. Leading Korea-based companies, among them Samsung Electronics, BC Card, SK Planet and KT, have enhanced their quality of service and user experience via deployment of FIDO standards. Looking forward, a FIDO standards-based integrated certification platform is on schedule to be built and expanded to IoT and blockchain applications. Koichi Moriyama, Senior Director of Product Innovation in NTT DOCOMO and Chairman of FIDO Japan WG, gave a presentation on NTT DOCOMO's FIDO Universal Authentication Framework (UAF). To help users who often forget their passwords, NTT DOCOMO advocates adoption of a FIDO UAF specification to deliver a password-less experience, where a user is able to use a form of biometric authentication on their local device, such as a fingerprint or an iris scan to securely log in. In addition to integrating FIDO UAF into its dmarket service. In 2015, NTT DOCOMO had taken the lead in launching UAF-certified devices and servers. He emphasized that FIDO is the best solution in terms of cost, usage, security and range of applications and that NTT DOCOMO plans to further expand FIDO UAF-certified products into all new Android devices. IC Liu, CEO of Next Bank Preparation Office, moderated a panel discussion, the last session of the seminar. Themed "How Taiwan/Asia Embrace the World," Taipei City Government Department of Information Technology director Wei-Bin Lee, Taiwan Association of Information and Communication Standards (TAICS) secretary general Sheng-Lin Chou, FIDO Alliance executive director Brett McDowell, Asia PKI Consortium (APKIC) representative Dr. Soranun Jiwasurat and legislator Jason Hsu discussed how Taiwan should embrace the new technologies and establish a firm footprint in Asia and even the world in terms of standards, ICT, and culture. Photo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20181130/2314065-1

Logo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20180307/2074033-1LOGO SOURCE Egis Technology Inc.

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 02, 2018] Calibehr Introduces Automate: A Technology Platform for Sales, Fulfilment Operations & Field Force Management

MUMBAI, December 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- In this fast evolving world, businesses challenge demographics on continual basis. In order to capture markets across various geographies, various businesses deploy teams closer to customers and place of business for Sales & Fulfilment Operations. Managing the deployed field force in an engaged manner is an uphill task and is the need of the hour. A lot of resources are utilized in monitoring the field force productivity as well as collecting critical information for management reporting on daily basis. With the aid of technological prowess these business operations could be made lean and highly efficient. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/713010/Calibehr_Logo.jpg )

With experience of serving more than 75 clients across 13 industries for over a decade, Calibehr introduces Automate, our flagship Technology Product for Field Force Operation Management. Automate is an AI based on-field and in-store operation management product. It is a comprehensive solution (web & mobile) that digitizes all day to day operations starting from sales target assignment, product catalogue management, run time sales/fulfilment lead assignment to on-field employee to collating data from sales representatives, recording customer information and monitoring product and sales representatives' performance. It leverages the advent of mobile technologies and penetration of internet, which can foster data collection and productivity management in an effective manner. It furnishes real-time trends and sales reports powered by Digitization of on-field Sales Information and Prdictive Analytics. It leverages the power of mobility and puts actionable business insights at fingertips of business leaders for effective decision making and strategic business growth.



Automate finds its business applications in various domains such as Retail, FMCG, FMCD, Banking, NBFC, Insurance sector and more. It addresses all kinds of daily and recurring issues related to data capture and reporting faced by the field representatives, in-store employees, regional managers and senior management. It enables business leaders in total control of sales, retail and productivity management as well as removes bottle necks related to inefficient data capture and collation. It brings in the power of standardization across the entire field process operations and optimizes resource utilization. The product's form factor is dynamic in nature and makes it a powerful tool for any business of operation. With built in HRMS, intelligent features such as face recognition and geo-tagging, Automate creates a sense of engagement along with responsibility amongst the on-field employees. It enthuses healthy spirit of competition by intuitive dashboards built on gamification elements such as user ranks, incentives earned, potential earnings, and targets to be achieved etc. A motivated field force delights customers as well as aggregates unified, structured data that enables generation of reports and dashboards for senior management. It equips the senior management with full visibility of efforts on the field to devise business plans for growth. Calibehr is looking forward to tell their potential business partners and clients more about Automate and its fitment in their growth story.

To know more about Automate, join the live and interactive webinar on 6th December, 2018 at 3 pm IST. They have limited seats available and would request to reserve the spot by visiting at http://bit.ly/RegisterAutomateWebinar. To know more about Calibehr's exciting journey visit https://www.calibehr.com/ or write to [email protected]. For latest business updates, follow Calibehr on https://www.linkedin.com/company/calibehrbss/. About Calibehr: Calibehr is a professional business services enterprise. We combine the synergies of people, process and technology to drive seamless operations and sustainable growth for large Indian enterprises, multinational corporations and state governments. We offer a comprehensive suite of digitally enabled and digitally driven services through 350 delivery centres, empowering clients across 3 continents to rise up to the challenges of an ever-growing and ever-expanding business environment. Driven by a 10,000 strong team of forward thinking and outcome oriented individuals, we work in close collaboration to deliver quick, quantifiable results across 13 industries, in a digital-first world.

Media Contact:

Sumeet Sharma

[email protected]

+91-9819305486

Calibehr Business Support Services Pvt Ltd



[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] ManpowerGroup Appoints Francois Lancon as Regional President, Asia Pacific and Middle East (APME)

MILWAUKEE, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- (NYSE: MAN)  ManpowerGroup today announced the appointment of Francois Lancon as Regional President, Asia Pacific and Middle East (APME), effective January 1, 2019. Lancon will oversee all ManpowerGroup's strong and connected brands and offerings across the APME region  Manpower, Experis, Right Management and ManpowerGroup Solutions. He replaces Ram Chandrashekar who has successfully led the APME region for 4 years, in addition to his global responsibilities. Chandrashekar will now fully focus on his role as EVP of Operational Excellence, Technology and Transformation across ManpowerGroup's 80 countries and territories. Both will report to Jonas Prising, Chairman & CEO. Lancon joins ManpowerGroup from Oracle where he led the APAC business, responsible for growth, performance and profitability across 25 countries. Prior to his position at Oracle, Lancon held a number of senior regional leadership positions at SAP, Nortel / Avaya and Convergys, accelerating transformation and growing market share in Europe, North America and Asia. He began his career at IBM in France as a software engineer and held multiple leadership and sales positions in France and the US in his ten years with the company. "Francois has a proven track record in building successful organizations with the right blend of people, skills, processes and technology in a rapidly evolving dgital market," said Jonas Prising, ManpowerGroup Chairman & CEO. "I am pleased he will bring his strong leadership, digital expertise and operational discipline to further innovate, accelerate growth and build on the strong foundation that Ram has nurtured in the region. This is how we will connect even more people with meaningful work and companies with skilled talent in APME."



"I'm passionate about helping people achieve their potential and am excited to join the leading global workforce solutions company that finds meaningful work for millions of people every year," said Francois Lancon. "As emerging technologies and digitization change skills needs faster than ever, I'm looking forward to leading a talented team that can create even more value for ManpowerGroup clients and candidates in Asia Pacific and the Middle East." About ManpowerGroup

ManpowerGroup (NYSE: MAN), the leading global workforce solutions company, helps organizations transform in a fast-changing world of work by sourcing, assessing, developing and managing the talent that enables them to win. We develop innovative solutions for hundreds of thousands of organizations every year, providing them with skilled talent while finding meaningful, sustainable employment for millions of people across a wide range of industries and skills. Our expert family of brands  Manpower, Experis, Right Management and ManpowerGroup Solutions  creates substantially more value for candidates and clients across 80 countries and territories and has done so for 70 years. In 2018, ManpowerGroup was named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the ninth year and one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies for the sixteenth year, confirming our position as the most trusted and admired brand in the industry. See how ManpowerGroup is powering the future of work: www.manpowergroup.com

View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/manpowergroup-appoints-francois-lancon-as-regional-president-asia-pacific-and-middle-east-apme-300758643.html SOURCE ManpowerGroup

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Accenture Helps Telefonica Transform the Customer Experience

Accenture (NYSE:ACN) has helped Telefonica (News - Alert), one of the world's largest private telecommunications companies, transform its customer experience with a complete overhaul of its digital experience for customers in Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Spain and the U.K. To acquire and retain new customers, Telefonica had to rethink its commercial focus and create a new, seamless and personalized omnichannel experience. Accenture (News - Alert) Interactive helped the company innovate and transform its digital sales capabilities by designing and developing an online sales funnel, a search engine optimization capability and a search engine marketing capability. Accenture Interactive and its design and innovation consultancy, Fjord, also reimagined Telefonica's website design and digital marketing experience, creating a holistic customer experience across all touchpoints and providing content customized for the individual customer. Accenture also helped Telefonica introduce analytics across all digital channels and call centers to enable a better understanding of the customer throughout the entire digital journey, giving the company the ability to make highly personalized offers and accelerate sales. "Customers make most of thir buying decisions through digital channels, so it was critical that we transform our digital sales capabilities and the overall experience to remain relevant," said Mariano De Beer, chief commercial and digital officer at Telefonica. "A major part of the transformation was to create a digital ecosystem, enabling us to offer a highly personalized experience with the flexibility to respond quickly to changing customer and market demands. Accenture's deep digital experience, combined with its world-class marketing and design expertise, made them the obvious choice to help us make this journey."



To date, the transformation has given Telefonica more efficient, hyper-relevant and more flexible customer-support capabilities, enabling the company to not only improve the experience for millions of customers across five countries but also accelerate sales. "Telecommunications is an industry where service providers constantly face the risk of losing customers - and, with them, revenue - if they fail to maintain customer relevance," said Nerea Idirin, a managing director in Accenture's Communications, Media & Technology practice. "Telefonica is a very forward-thinking company and has the courage to continuously innovate, which enables them to maintain their relevance in consumers' daily digital routines and in turn, their leading position in the market. Our collaboration with Telefonica was designed to help them evolve into a Living Business, enabling them to thrive by continuously adapting to changing customer preferences and market conditions with speed and at scale."

About Accenture Accenture is a leading global professional services company, providing a broad range of services and solutions in strategy, consulting, digital, technology and operations. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries and all business functions - underpinned by the world's largest delivery network - Accenture works at the intersection of business and technology to help clients improve their performance and create sustainable value for their stakeholders. With 459,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries, Accenture drives innovation to improve the way the world works and lives. Visit us at www.accenture.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181202005003/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Advanced Accelerator Applications signs exclusive option and license agreement with FUJIFILM Toyama Chemical to develop and commercialize radiolabeled FF-10158 for oncology indications

Novel small molecule FF-10158 targets integrin alphavbeta3 (av3) and alphavbeta5 (av5) receptors Expands theragnostic pipeline Potential broad application in the detection and treatment of highly vascularized tumors and metastases

SAINT-GENIS-POUILLY, France, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Advanced Accelerator Applications S.A. (AAA), a Novartis company and leader in nuclear medicine theragnostics, today announced that it has entered into an exclusive option and license agreement with FUJIFILM Toyama Chemical, a leading radiopharmaceutical company in Japan, to develop and commercialize radiolabeled FF-10158 for oncology indications. Under the terms of the agreement, AAA is granted worldwide rights to FF-10158, with the exception of Japan, in exchange for an upfront payment and future milestones and royalties. FF-10158 is a pre-clinical small molecule antagonist with high affinity for integrin alphavbeta3 (av3) and alphavbeta5 (av5) receptors. Integrins are cell surface receptors that are embedded in the cell membrane. Integrin alphavbeta3/5 subtypes are over expressed on many types of cancer cells and the blocking of integrin signalling has been shown to inhibit tumor growth, angiogenesis (formation of blood vessels) and metastasis1,2,3. AAA plans to develop a theragnostic pairing of compounds based on FF-10158, including a gallium 68-labeled drug for diagnosis and a lutetium 177-labeled drug for therapy. Our goal is to develop radiopharmaceuticals that transform oncology treatment, said Susanne Schaffert, Ph.D., President, Advanced Accelerator Applications. The in-licensing of FF-10158 expands our oncology theragnostic pipeline and we believe that this approach to integrating diagnostics and therapeutics has the potential to change patient management. Among the first potential indications planned for investigation is glioblastoma, an orphan disease with high unmet medical need. Increased alphavbeta3 expression on glioblastoma is associated with invasive growth and poor survival4,5. Integrin-targeted delivery of radionuclides has been explored in pre-clinical models of glioblastoma6. FUJIFILM Toyama Chemical contributes to healthcare through the research and development, manufacturing and distribution of radiopharmaceuticals as well as other kinds of therapeutic drugs in Japan. The company is responsible for core elements of the healthcare business of FUJIFILM Corporation, that seeks to expand its business in the areas of disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Currently, FUJIFILM Toyama Chemical offers Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) and PositronEmission Tomography (PET) diagnostics, therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals and small molecule pharmaceutical products.



Disclaimer This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by words such as potential, goal, planned for investigation, will, plans, expect, believe, investigational, pipeline, or similar terms, or by express or implied discussions regarding potential marketing approvals, new indications or labeling for the investigational or approved products described in this press release, or regarding potential future revenues from such products, or regarding potential outcomes and success of the exclusive option and license agreement with FUJIFILM Toyama Chemical. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on our current beliefs and expectations regarding future events, and are subject to significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. There can be no guarantee that the investigational or approved products described in this press release will be submitted or approved for sale or for any additional indications or labeling in any market, or at any particular time. Neither can there be any guarantee that such products will be commercially successful in the future. Nor can there be any guarantee that the exclusive option and license agreement with FUJIFILM Toyama Chemical will achieve any or all of its intended goals, or at any particular time. In particular, our expectations regarding such products and the exclusive option and license agreement with FUJIFILM Toyama Chemical could be affected by, among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including clinical trial results and additional analysis of existing clinical data; regulatory actions or delays or government regulation generally; global trends toward health care cost containment, including government, payor and general public pricing and reimbursement pressures; our ability to obtain or maintain proprietary intellectual property protection; the particular prescribing preferences of physicians and patients; general political and economic conditions; safety, quality or manufacturing issues; potential or actual data security and data privacy breaches, or disruptions of our information technology systems, and other risks and factors referred to in Novartis AGs current Form 20-F on file with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Novartis is providing the information in this press release as of this date and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Advanced Accelerator Applications S.A. Advanced Accelerator Applications, a Novartis company, is an innovative radiopharmaceutical company developing, producing and commercializing radioligand theragnostics (pairings of therapeutic and diagnostic drugs based on the same targeting molecule) for oncology. AAA is an established leader in radiopharmaceuticals for Positron Emission tomography (PET) and Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) diagnostic imaging, mainly used in clinical oncology, cardiology and neurology. For more information, please visit: https://www.adacap.com/. References Liu Z, Wang F, Chen X. Integrin av3-Targeted Cancer Therapy. Drug Dev Res. 2008; 69(6): 329339. Sun C, Qu X, Gao Z. Integrins: players in cancer progression and targets in cancer therapy. Anti-Cancer Drugs. 2014; 25:11071121. Raab-Westphal S, Marchall JF, Goodman SL. Integrins as therapeutic Targets: Successes and Cancers. Cancers 2017; Sep; 9(9): 110. Albeda SM, Mette SA, Elder D.E., Stewart R, Damjanovich L, Herlyn M, Buck CA. Integrin distribution in malignant melanoma: Association of the beta 3 subunit with tumor progression. Cancer Res. 1990; 50, 67576764. Gladson CL, Cheresh DA. Glioblastoma expression of vitronectin and the alpha v beta 3 integrin. Adhesion mechanism for transformed glial cells. J. Clin. Investig. 1991; 88, 19241932. Veeravagu A, Liu Z, Niu G, Chen K, Jia B, Cai W, Jin C, Hsu AR, Connolly AJ, Tse V, Wang IF, Chen X. Integrin alphavbeta3-targeted radioimmunotherapy of glioblastoma multiforme. Clin Cancer Res. 2008 (in press). Media Relations Contacts: Advanced Accelerator Applications

Rachel Levine

+1 212 235 2395 (direct)

+1 917 375 2935 (mobile)

[email protected] Novartis Oncology

Julie Masow

+1 862 778 7220 (direct)

+1 862 579 8456 (mobile)

[email protected]



[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Ahead of COP24, Schneider Electric Strengthens Its Commitment to Become Carbon Neutral by 2030

LONDON, December 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Group will present innovative solutions to fight climate change in Katowice

Schneider Electric's experts & leaders will actively participate at COP24 At a time when the latest IPCC report calls for urgent action to fight climate change, Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, is accelerating its contribution to meeting the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. To mark the occasion of COP24 in Katowice (Poland), from December 3 to 14, 2018, Schneider Electric is strengthening its commitments to become carbon neutral by 2030 using solutions that will help accelerate the transition towards a low carbon economy. Carbon neutral by 2030 "The climate emergency is growing, and new players are emerging to tackle the issue. The Paris Agreement signed three years ago provides us with a much clearer understanding of what is at stake. We're now at a tipping point in limiting global warming to less than 2C above pre-industrial levels to avoid a major ecological disaster", says Gilles Vermot Desroches, Sustainability Senior VP at Schneider Electric. In November 2015, on the eve of COP21, Schneider Electric announced its plan to become carbon neutral by 2030. To mark the occasion of COP24, Schneider Electric is stepping up its ambition and strengthening its commitments to fighting climate change, based on three complementary initiatives: Before 2020: meet the 21 new commitments of the 2018-2020 Schneider Sustainability Impact barometer, outline a specific trajectory based on the assumption that Earth will breach the 2C warming limit by 2050 and validate it through the Science Based Targets initiative, signed by the Group in 2016. Achiee carbon neutrality by 2030 at its plants and sites, in a cohesive industry ecosystem encompassing both suppliers and clients. To that aim, the Group will quantify carbon emissions saved by its customers thanks to its EcoStruxure offers

switch to 100% renewable electricity, use 100% recyclable or reusable packaging, and recover 100% of its industrial waste

and double its energy productivity against a 2005 baseline. Starting today and by 2050: cut its scope 1 and scope 2 carbon emissions by more than 50% vs. 2015, in line with the guiding principles of the Science Based Targets initiative.



Building a sustainable future together, thanks to energy efficiency "The decisions we make today are critical to ensuring a safe and sustainable world for everyone, both now and in the future. At Schneider Electric, we believe that sustainability and innovation is technologically possible today. COP24, in Poland this year, is an opportunity for us to demonstrate our contribution through solutions that are a genuine remedy for climate change and to show how we can help meet the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals", said Gilles Vermot Desroches.

What is good for the climate is good for the economy. Schneider Electric's solutions help accelerate the transition towards a low carbon economy offering numerous opportunities, from sustainable growth to job creation, improved public health and more. A number of Schneider Electric projects in Poland demonstrate this: Schneider Electric completed an electrical distribution modernisation of the Saint Gobain glass factory in Dabrowa Gornicza in 2017. The replacement and optimisation of transformers, thanks to EcoSruxure Power Consulting Services, led to a 16% drop in energy losses (OPEX) in 2018 as well as a 30% drop in capital expenditure.

Schneider Electric has also equipped the International Conference Center of Katowice , where COP24 will take place, and the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra Hall, location of the opening concert, with building energy management systems that significantly reduce their energy consumption while maintaining occupant comfort. Addressing energy poverty and the climate emergency Access to energy is a fundamental human right. The fight against climate change will not be effective without taking into account the needs of the 2.3 billion people with poor access to energy. That's why Schneider Electric is actively promoting sustainable energy access everywhere. In developed countries, it means fighting fuel poverty, the state when a person can't heat his or her home at an acceptable cost. At COP 24, the Schneider Electric Foundation, under the aegis of Foundation de France, together with social entrepreneurship organisation Ashoka, will pursue this commitment to tackling fuel poverty in Europe by launching a new call for projects for 2019. Climate change is another key issue, as many people have already been forced to leave their homes due to extreme natural disasters. Those situations call for mobile, clean, reliable and affordable energy access solutions. At COP24, Schneider Electric will launch its Villaya Emergency solution for easier access to energy in emergency situations. This solar microgrid solution is ready to use in any situation thanks to a system combining Schneider Electric technologies and the expertise of innovative start-ups. The entire solution is fitted into a standard shipping container for fast, easy transportation or relocation to anywhere worldwide. Schneider Electric at COP24 COP24 will bring together around 20,000 participants (political leaders and representatives from NGOs, business and science and research) from more than 190 countries, all working to accelerate the implementation of solutions by 2020. Schneider Electric's experts and executives will participate in a series of events and round tables.

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Eutelsat Communications: MASMOVIL Group to Provide Satellite Broadband Services Throughout Spain via KA-SAT

Regulatory News: MASMOVIL Group, Spain's fourth largest telecommunications operator, has signed an agreement with Eutelsat's (News - Alert) (Paris:ETL) subsidiary, Eurobroadband Infrastructure, to distribute broadband services to under-connected areas across the country via the KA-SAT satellite. Launched in 2010, KA-SAT is a powerful satellite delivering broadband services across Europe, notably Spain, through 82 spotbeams connected to a network of ten ground stations. Its unique configuration and frequency reuse allow it to achieve a throughput of over 90 Gbps, providing Internet access at speeds comparable to terrestrial networks. This agreement will allow MASMOVIL to achieve its objective of offering broadband services to the entire Spanish population, regardless of the technology used, and bringing Internet access to remote areas of the country, thereby reducing the digital divide in Spain. Satellite technology will give customers instant access to broadband Internet once the service is hired and the equipment is installed, since it does not require any additional infrastructure deployment. MASMOVIL will offer services with speeds of up to 50 Mbps and data downloads from between 30 GB and 150 GB per month. Fees will start at 37.90 per month, with subscription options to additional mobile services, corresponding to bundle offers. Initially, the service will be available through the Embou brand, a subsidiary of MASMOVIL (www.satelite.embou.com) as well as at MASMOVIL points of sale. From the beginning of 2019, it will also be available through the rest of the Group's brands. Meinrad Spenger, CEO of MASMOVIL Group, said: "This new initiative represents a significant step towards bringing Internet broadband to the entire Spanish population, regardless of the technology, providig new solutions to respond to the connectivity needs of our customers, wherever they are and further expanding the growth of our customer base".



Rodolphe Belmer, CEO of Eutelsat, added: "This agreement with MASMOVIL, one of Spain's leading telecom operators, further highlights the role of satellite technology to complement terrestrial networks in underserved areas, and specifically, KA-SAT's in overcoming the connectivity barriers that remain even in mature markets. From 2020 onward, Eutelsat will pursue its commitment to narrowing the digital divide in Europe and beyond, leveraging on its KONNECT and KONNECT VHTS satellites." About MASMOVIL Group

MASMOVIL Group is the fourth largest converging telecommunications operator in Spain that provides fixed, mobile and broadband Internet services for residential, business and Wholesale, through its main brands: Yoigo, Pepephone, MASMOVIL, Lebara and Llamaya.

The group relies on a fiber/ADSL network for broadband and 3G and 4G network for mobile telephony. At present, it has more than 14,4 million fiber households and reaches 18 million homes with ADSL. The companies' 4G mobile network covers 98,5% of the Spanish population. The Group has 7,5 million customers in Spain.

MASMOVIL received the award for the best fiber operator in 2018 and for the fixed broadband operator in 2017 by Grupo ADSL Zone. Also, MASMOVIL was the best fiber operator in 2017 by the website Grupo Informatico.

Additionally, it is the operator with the fastest fiber network in Spain according to a study by the company, nPerf,, and the operator with the fastest 3G+4G aggregated mobile network in Spain, according to a study by the company, Tutela. Follow us:

Web MASMOVIL Group: http://grupomasmovil.com/es/

Twitter (News - Alert): https://twitter.com/grupomasmovil About Eutelsat Communications

Established in 1977, Eutelsat Communications is one of the world's leading operators of communication satellites. Through its global fleet of satellites and ground-based infrastructure, Eutelsat enables its clients in the Video, Data, Government Services, and Fixed and Mobile connectivity sectors to efficiently connect to their clients wherever they may be. Eutelsat broadcasts nearly 7,000 channels, operated by the largest television groups, reaching an audience of one billion television viewers equipped for satellite reception or connected to land networks. Based in Paris, Eutelsat relies on a global network of offices and teleports. Its teams, comprised of a thousand employees from 46 countries strive daily to offer the best quality service.

Eutelsat Communications is listed on the Paris Stock Exchange (Euronext Paris) under the symbol ETL.

To learn more about Eutelsat, go to www.eutelsat.com www.eutelsat.com - Follow us on Twitter @Eutelsat_SA View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005359/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Alan Walker Launches Collaboration With Mask Company Airinum to Raise Awareness on Climate Change

STOCKHOLM, December 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Norwegian music producer Alan Walker launches a co-branded mask together with award-winning Swedish brand Airinum. The mask is built on Airinum's 2nd generation technology of their global anti-pollution mask success, the Urban Air Mask. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/792074/Airinum_Logo.jpg ) (Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/792073/Airinum_Alan_Walker.jpg ) "I've always wanted to use my position and strong 'Walkers community' to make a difference, and when I met the team at Airinum I started to realize how big of an issue polluted air really is today. I felt that the time was about right to stand up for something important as the topic of climate change and the alarming consequences that it brings with it," says Walker, who has built his whole image around wearing a mask and continues: "To me, it's always been a part of my identity to wear a mask and together with Airinum I can now use that to make a bigger impact. Together we bring out a great product and at the same time spread knowledge about problems associated with poor air quality using the strength of my walker community." Paris to Shanghai , Airinum has become famous for its innovative product design and rapid adoption amongst influencers. Winner of prestigious awards such as the American IDA Gold Design Award and Chinese Hurun Best of the Best Brand Award, the company has in a few years established themselves as the number one fashion-tech mask brand in the world.



"Even though we're frustrated about the need for our product in the first place, we're excited about the Alan Walker collaboration launched today, as we believe we have a perfect product for people to use to collectively help raise awareness about this important topic," says Fredrik Kempe, CMO & Co-founder of Airinum and continues: "That the simple act of breathing is killing seven million people a year and harming billions more is what made us start this company in the first place. We find this unacceptable. Together with the whole Alan Walker team we now present a campaign dedicated to raise awareness about air pollution and climate change as a whole, while at the same time provide means for immediate protection. This is something we're all very proud of."

For high-resolution images, full campaign video and complete press kit:

bit.ly/Airinum Airinum is a Swedish company that empowers individuals to breathe clean air by offering innovative products that intersect functionality and design, catered to urban citizens all over the world. It's famous for its Scandinavian product design and high-end brand with prestigious designer awards such as IDA Gold and Hurun Best of the Best Brand awards. The company was founded in June 2015 and the management team consist of the two co-founders: Fredrik Kempe & Alexander Hjertstrom. Alan Walker is a Norwegian DJ who made his big breakthrough with the song Faded in 2015, today with over 2 billion views only on YouTube. He is certainly one of our most talented musicians of his age and even though he feels at home in every corner of the world, due to his millions of fans called walkers, he is mostly famous for being a pragmatic, present and caring celebrity. Contact Airinum

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +46-708-40-99-93 Alan Walker

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +47-942-77-848

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Biometric hacking and cloud attacks among top cyberthreats for 2019

COSTA MESA, Calif., Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- What will the top cyberthreats be in 2019? Experian today released its sixth annual Data Breach Industry Forecast, which includes predictions of the top five cyberthreats facing businesses next year. The report addresses new breach frontiers such as biometrics and gaming, along with susceptible breach targets such as the cloud and wireless networks. "Hackers have become very nimble at outsmarting protection measures. Cybercriminals always seem to stay a step ahead of new security gates," said Michael Bruemmer, vice president of Data Breach Resolution at Experian. "We use the power of data to help businesses make the right decisions, and we issue our Data Breach Industry Forecast each year to give them a competitive edge. Our predictions look at where hackers may go next to exploit vulnerabilities so companies can safeguard themselves against these future threats." Experian's five data breach predictions for 2019: Attackers will zero in on biometric hacking and expose vulnerabilities in touch ID sensors, facial recognition and passcodes. Biometric data is considered the most secure method of authentication, but it can be stolen or altered, and sensors can be manipulated and spoofed or deteriorate with too much use.



Skimming is the next frontier for an enterprisewide attack on a major financial institution's national network, which could result in millions of losses. Credit card skimmers are hidden devices designed to steal card information and passcodes. Criminals are now going after bank networks  moving beyond attacking individual ATMs by loading malware into entire computer systems.



A major wireless carrier will be attacked with a simultaneous effect on both iPhones and Android, stealing personal information from millions of consumers and possibly disabling all wireless communications in the United States . Similar to an attack on critical infrastructure, a serious disruption to a wireless network would halt the nation.



It's a matter of when, not if, a top cloud vendor will suffer a breach, compromising the sensitive information of major companies. The only question is how long it will take hackers to go to the cloud, affecting the world's largest companies and potentially billions of pieces of data.



The online gaming community will be an emerging hacker target, with cybercriminals posing as gamers and gaining access to the computers and personal data of trusting players. A cybercriminal can easily pose as a gamer or take over an avatar to infiltrate games and communities, stealing personal and credit card information and valuable game pieces and tokens. This year, the forecast includes an additional prediction about the dark web by Brian Stack, vice president of Dark Web Intelligence at Experian. To read the full complimentary report with a detailed analysis of the five predictions and what they mean for businesses and consumers, visit http://bit.ly/IndustryForecast. About Experian

Experian is the world's leading global information services company. During life's big moments  from buying a home or a car, to sending a child to college, to growing a business by connecting with new customers  we empower consumers and our clients to manage their data with confidence. We help individuals to take financial control and access financial services, businesses to make smarter decisions and thrive, lenders to lend more responsibly, and organizations to prevent identity fraud and crime. We have 16,500 people operating across 39 countries and every day we're investing in new technologies, talented people and innovation to help all our clients maximize every opportunity. We are listed on the London Stock Exchange (EXPN) and are a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index. Learn more at www.experianplc.com or visit our global content hub at our global news blog for the latest news and insights from the Group. Experian and the Experian marks used herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Experian Information Solutions, Inc. Other product and company names mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.







Contacts:

Michelle Manoff Brittany Borsanyi 1 212 805 3051 1 212 805 3071 Rubenstein PR Rubenstein PR [email protected] [email protected]



Sandra Bernardo

Experian

1 949 567 3676

[email protected]



View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/biometric-hacking-and-cloud-attacks-among-top-cyberthreats-for-2019-300758532.html SOURCE Experian

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018]

Universal mCloud to Attend Maxim Group TMT Conference In New York City, New York

VANCOUVER, Dec. 3, 2018 /CNW/ - Universal mCloud Corp. (TSX-V: MCLD) (OTCQB: MCLDF) ("mCloud" or the "Company"), a leading provider of Artificial Intelligence and Analytics ("AI&A") and IoT-connected asset care technology, is pleased to announce its participation in the Maxim Group TMT Conference.

Maxim Group LLC is a leading full service investment banking, securities and wealth management firm with a strong presence in the TMT sector. The Maxim Group TMT Conference will take place on Tuesday, December 11, in New York. President and CEO of mCloud, Russel McMeekin, will be participating in the conference's feature panel, "Monetizing the Internt of Things", and meeting with institutional investors.







For more information on the conference, or to RSVP, email [email protected]

About Universal mCloud Corp.

Universal mCloud is headquartered in Vancouver, BC with technology and operations centers in San Francisco, CA and Bristol, PA. mCloud is an Artificial Intelligence and Analytics, IoT connected asset care cloud solution company utilizing connected IoT devices, AI, deep energy analytics, secure mobile and 3D technologies that rally all asset stakeholders around an Asset-Circle-of-Care, providing complete real-time and historical data coupled with guidance and advice based on deep analytics and diagnostics resulting in optimal performance and care of critical equipment. It's all about the asset. The powerful and secure AssetCare environment is accessible everywhere, 24/7 through standard mobile devices, ruggedized headsets, and web browsers. For more information, visit www.mCloudCorp.com.

SOURCE Universal-mCloud Corp[December 03, 2018] ICMI Certifies WPS Health Solutions (WPS) via its Contact Center Site Assessment Program

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The International Customer Management Institute (ICMI) , the authority on contact center excellence, today announced that it has certified WPS via its Site Certification program. WPS, a leading not-for-profit health insurer and provider of administrative services for the U.S. government, passed the initial assessment and was able to be audited and certified immediately. Their accelerated advancement through the rigorous certification program is extremely rare, and validates WPSs best-in-class contact center operations and customer management strategy.

ICMIs Site Certification Program supports a comprehensive contact center management framework that employs a mix of specialized tools, cross-industry best practices, assessments, and proven systems. This helps participating organizations deliver sustained contact center efficiency and effectiveness over the long term, including real fiscal impact on both top and bottom lines. Comprised of a four-step process, participants first take part in a formal assessment, followed by an improvement and implementation period, then a subsequent audit which finally prepares them for certification. Supporting an effective contact center operations strategy enables organizations to deliver an optimal customer experience, noted Tara Gibb, ICMIs Group Portfolio Director. Given their high performance via the assessment and audit, WPS is clearly committed to providing a world-class experience for their customers, and the ICMI team congratulates them on their accomplishment. Through ICMI Site Certification, participating organizations are able to focus on meeting core business objectives, including: Improving the fnancial performance of the contact center

Building and maintaining customer loyalty and lifetime customer value

Standardizing processes and best practice collaboration

Increasing employee engagement and satisfaction

Improving business intelligence and analytics



To learn more about ICMI Site Certification, performance improvement consulting and contact center training, please visit: https://www.icmi.com/Consulting

About ICMI

The International Customer Management Institute (ICMI) is the leading global provider of comprehensive resources for customer management professionals -- from frontline agents to executives -- who wish to improve customer experiences and increase efficiencies at every level of the contact center. Since 1985, ICMI has helped more than 50,000 organizations in 167 countries through training, events, certification, consulting, and informational resources. ICMI's experienced and dedicated team of industry insiders, trainers, and consultants are committed to helping you raise the strategic value of your contact center, optimize your operations and improve your customer service. For more information, visit icmi.com. ICMI is organized by UBM, which in June 2018 combined with Informa PLC to become a leading B2B information services group and the largest B2B Events organizer in the world. To learn more and for the latest news and information, visit www.ubm.com and www.informa.com . About WPS Health Solutions

WPS Health Solutions is a nationally regarded government contractor and a leading Wisconsin not-for-profit health insurer. The WPS Health Insurance division offers affordable health plans and benefits administration. The WPS Government Health Administrators division administers Part A and B Medicare benefits for millions of seniors in multiple states, and the WPS Military and Veterans Health division serves millions more members who are active in the U.S. military, veterans and their families. In 2018, the international Ethisphere Institute named WPS one of the Worlds Most Ethical Companies for the ninth straight year. For more information, please visit wpshealthsolutions.com . Heather Donner

ICMI PR

[email protected]

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Alaska Maritime Physicians (AMP) Selects DrChrono Mobile-EHR to Support Treating Patients at Sea

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DrChrono Inc., the company enabling the medical practice of the future, today announced that Alaska Maritime Physicians (AMP) has selected DrChronos mobile-Electronic Health Record (EHR) to assist in its ship to shore telemedicine efforts providing medical care, support and services to the maritime industry.

Alaska Maritime Physicians (AMP) is a premier provider of urgent medical assistance to crews at sea. The Alaska licensed physicians communicate with the vessels and facilities, give orders for treatment and transportation, and manage recovery and triage through a clinically integrated network. Since going live on the DrChrono mobile EHR platform this year, AMP has treated and logged approximately 350 patient occurrences at sea and at its clinic in Anchorage, AK. The AMP physicians are available 24x7/365 days a year and equipped with an iPad and iPhone to access a patients medical record immediately when theyre providing remote consultations and medical support to a patient at sea. The AMP physician can prescribe medication, order diagnostic testing and procedures, and make specialist referrals through the DrChrono mobile platform. The physician can also log into the atients treatment plan and provide a timeline for medical clearance to include return to duty, travel, or continuation of the recovery plan.



DrChrono worked closely with AMP to create custom workflows and templates for the AMP physicians that are helping them easily enter and analyze certain ailments and situations that occur more often on vessels, such as treating burns, lacerations, frostbite, broken bones and other sea-related illnesses. Additionally, the iPhones FaceID feature allows physicians to quickly log in and access a patients medical record from their phone which is helpful in emergency situations. The patient data logged in the DrChrono EHR is also proving to be useful to support insurance claims, workman's compensation reports and documentation from AMPs medical team. We are bringing a telemedicine solution to a 20-year problem at sea, said R Scott Lord, Vice President of Operations at Alaska Maritime Physicians We are in the business of treating the men and women at sea who dont typically have a full time medical staff on board. DrChrono is a big part of our growth plan to be a sustainable company. In order to grow our business and successfully manage patient data, we needed a reliable mobile-EHR that had all the features and customization to support our telemedicine goals. DrChrono was the only EHR on the market that could deliver.

This is an exciting telemedicine solution and were pleased to see that our mobile EHR is supporting the growing AMP network, said Daniel Kivatinos, COO and Co-Founder of DrChrono. We provide the only full featured EHR available on the iOS platform that leverages the latest Apple technology which is proving to be extremely useful for AMP when the physicians only have their phone to access a patients medical information out at sea. To learn more about Alaska Maritime Physicians, visit: www.AlaskaMaritimePhysicians.com About DrChrono

DrChrono focuses on bringing the medical practice of the future to reality; the company built the first iPad EHR. DrChrono creates the best electronic health record, practice management, medical billing and revenue cycle management experience for physicians and patients; the medical platform was built for iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch and the web. The EHR includes customizable medical forms, e-prescribing, real-time patient eligibility checks, patient portal and more. The healthcare App Directory offers a multitude of apps that a practice can select from to bundle in and a medical API for healthcare app developers. For more information about DrChrono, visit www.drchrono.com Media Contact:

Gina Rezendes

Big Swing Communications

617-640-9278

[email protected]

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] QuestionPro Launches Data Migration Tool For Researchers Looking For an Alternative to Qualtrics

AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, QuestionPro Inc., an online survey and insights solutions company, launches a data migration and import tool specifically for Qualtrics customers looking for a powerful and cost-effective alternative in the industry. Current and former customers who wish to port existing projects can transition all current and historical survey data to QuestionPro with ease. All existing data will be accessible for ongoing research initiatives. The launch sets QuestionPro as the #1 Qualtrics alternative in the industry. "This offering is something former and current customers of Qualtrics asked for," says Vivek Bhaskaran, CEO of QuestionPro. "To meet their demands, we've created a simple three-step solution to make it easy to transition and continue their research projects. Our global customer base proves that we can work with anyone anywhere no matter how you choose to collect insights." As a leading online survey platform, QuestionPro supports all question types, settings, customization, and reporting options seen on oter platforms, QuestionPro offers a suite of product and service solutions that fit well with an organization's ever-evolving market research objectives including:



A mobile offline application for field research studies

In-site purchases for respondent sample through QuestionPro Audience

A build your own panel or online communities portal through QuestionPro Communities

The ability to track the customer journey through QuestionPro CX

Tackling employee engagement surveys from the workplace culture perspective through Workforce

24/7 live support and dedicated customer success management for enterprise solutions

FedRamp, GDPR, HIPPA, and localized server security compliance to ensure secure accessibility. To learn more and get started with a Qualtrics alternative, visit QuestionPro here: https://www.questionpro.com/qualtrics-alternative/ About QuestionPro, Inc.

With over 2.5 million users worldwide, QuestionPro is a leading provider of online survey and insights solutions software. Insights include tools for the creation, distribution, and analysis of surveys, as well as platforms for polling, mobile research, and data visualization. For over 13 years, QuestionPro has provided reliable technology to organizations including Fortune 100 companies to individual researchers.

View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/questionpro-launches-data-migration-tool-for-researchers-looking-for-an-alternative-to-qualtrics-300758559.html SOURCE QuestionPro

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] WITI Celebrates 30th Anniversary

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 03, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WITI (Women in Technology International), the leading advocate for innovation, inclusivity and STEAM, today announced it is celebrating 30 years of supporting and fostering women in technology. Founded by Carolyn Leighton at a time when there were no organizations to support women in technology, WITI is now a powerhouse that women turn to for career enhancement and global support. Companies also rely on WITI to help create a pipeline for women in technology as well as building leaders and inclusive cultures.

Dec. 4, Boston: Future of Work: Will Artificial Intelligence & Robots Replace Humans or Create New Job Types? When I decided to launch WITI sitting at a coffee house, my vision was to create a global platform for women where they could collaborate, support each other and share ideas around technology, innovation and business, said Carolyn Leighton, CEO & founder, WITI. Today I am truly humbled to see the power of WITI, and credit the worldwide community of women and men who have made the organization the go-to-place for building effective leadership, innovation and collaboration. Milestones over the last 30 years.



Established the first government relations program partnering with groups such as the Federal Glass Ceiling Commission, the Department of Commerce, the Small Business Association and the White House to help create opportunities and develop policies for women.

Established the WITI Public Education Campaign that opened doors for thousands of women in technology by campaigning to dismantle misperceptions, stereotypes, and biases against women.

Established more than 60 networks globally to help women in technology gain access to each other and become influencers in their respective communities. Some of the recent networks include Toronto, Vienna, Austria and Columbus, OH. Additional networks planned to launch in Q1 2019 includes Bangalore, India and Munich, Germany.

Established the Women in Technology Hall of Fame to honor the achievements of women in science and technology. Over the last 24 years, more than 135 women have been inducted into the hall of fame. The 25 th Women in Technology Summit is scheduled for June 9-11 in San Jose, CA. Celebrate with WITI. To celebrate the 30 th anniversary, WITI has planned multiple events in various cities, in collaboration with industry conferences, including, AI World Boston , Bio-IT World, Boston and IT Expo, Florida.

anniversary, WITI has planned multiple events in various cities, in collaboration with industry conferences, including, , Bio-IT World, Boston and IT Expo, Florida. In 2019 WITI will: continue to work with analyst firms such as IDC to gather market data and help companies create gender inclusive cultures. create additional programs to develop women leaders and help women executives get voted to boards. develop programs to inspire students, especially girls, to follow STEM careers.

About WITI

Founded in 1989 by Carolyn Leighton, WITI (Women in Technology International) is a leading worldwide authority on women in business and technology. For nearly 30 years, WITI has consistently been a clear voice advocating women's contributions to the tech industry, inspiring young women to pursue STEM careers and actively working with corporate partners to create a culture of equality. WITI has built a community of more than three million women in technology and men that support them across North America, Europe, Asia and Australia, more than 300 partners, 50 domestic and 13 global networks. WITI delivers to its members leading edge, best practice training consulting tools, programs and platforms designed to increase innovation, competitiveness and revenue. To learn more, please visit witi.com.

Contact:

Parna Sarkar-Basu

V.P. Marketing, WITI

[email protected]

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] ForgeRock and Socure Partner to Secure the Complete Customer Identity Lifecycle

Gartner (News - Alert) Identity & Access Management Summit - Socure and ForgeRock today announced a strategic partnership that enables companies to deliver a frictionless user experience for customers from initial onboarding through the complete lifecycle of their digital relationship with a brand. The combination of Socure's AI-based risk scoring and ForgeRock's comprehensive identity and access management platform enables businesses to make real-time digital identity verification, access and authorization decisions with unprecedented speed and accuracy. The joint solution combines ForgeRock's Identity Platform with Socure's digital identity verification service for day zero customer on boarding and automated provisioning of all subsequent processes by ForgeRock. This powerful combination ensures that only fully verified users will be onboarded through the ForgeRock provisioning process with the highest accuracy available in the market. The ForgeRock-Socure integration significantly reduces fraud, manual reviews and streamlines onboarding during new account opening. It also makes it simple for joint customers to build advanced registration processes and ensure end-users have all the access they need instantly. "Providing new customers a 100% digital, frictionless account opening experience, while meeting know-your-customer requirements and preventing fraud is simply not possible using traditional identity verification methods," said Johnny Ayers, Co-Founder & SVP for Socure. "Our partnership with ForgeRock allows customers to convert new account applications without manual reviews and make authentication and identity management virtually transparent to end users." "The account registrtion process is the first impression you give a customer about what it is like to do business with you, you can hook them or lose them forever at that moment," commented Ben Goodman, Vice President, Global Strategy and Innovation at ForgeRock. "Integration with innovative technology like Socure allows our customers to on-board their new users rapidly and securely in a way which minimizes abandonment and provides a delightful experience from the very beginning."



The Socure ID+ platform combines artificial intelligence, unsupervised machine learning and clustering algorithms to learn customer identity from their digital footprints. By calculating risk and correlation scores, Socure ID+ empowers businesses to dramatically increase online transaction acceptance rates, as well as reduce manual reviews and fraud. ForgeRock allows businesses to securely manage the complete identity lifecycle of people, services, and things. From identity to device registration, provisioning, social registration, progressive profiles, profile and privacy management, synchronization, reconciliation, and more.

About ForgeRock

ForgeRock is the Digital Identity Management company transforming the way organizations interact securely with customers, employees, devices, and things. Organizations adopt the ForgeRock Identity Platform as their digital identity system of record to monetize customer relationships, address stringent regulations for privacy and consent (GDPR, HIPAA, FCC privacy, etc.), and leverage the internet of things. ForgeRock serves hundreds of brands, including Morningstar, Vodafone, GEICO, TomTom (News - Alert), and Pearson, as well as governments such as Norway, New Zealand, and Belgium, among many others. Headquartered in San Francisco, California, ForgeRock has offices in Austin, London, Bristol, Grenoble, Munich, Paris, Oslo, Singapore, Sydney and Vancouver, Washington. ForgeRock is privately held, backed by leading global venture capital firms Accel Partners (News - Alert), Foundation Capital, Meritech Capital and KKR. For more information and free downloads, visit www.forgerock.com or follow ForgeRock on social media: Facebook (News - Alert) ForgeRock | Twitter @ForgeRock | LinkedIn (News - Alert) ForgeRock About Socure

Socure is the leader in high-assurance digital identity verification. The company's predictive analytics platform applies artificial intelligence and machine learning to trusted online/offline sources including email, phone, address, IP address, social media and traditional GLBA/DPPA data to authenticate identities in real-time. The Socure ID+ platform reduces fraud by up to 90 percent, lowers manual review/knowledge-based authentication (KBA) rates by as much as 80 percent, and automates Customer Identification Program (CIP), Know Your Customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) compliance initiatives. For more information visit www.socure.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005225/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] CLARA analytics Unveils Innovative, AI-Driven MSA Solution at National Workers' Compensation and Disability Conference

CLARA analytics ("CLARA"), the leading provider of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the commercial insurance industry, today announced a game-changing new feature of its CLARA claims product that provides Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement (MSA) services faster and at vastly reduced costs. The data-driven MSA solution enables CLARA claims users to compile a much richer, more detailed analysis of estimated future medical costs for injured workers - all at the push of a button. This innovative and powerful feature will debut at the National Workers' Compensation and Disability Conference, being held Dec. 5-7, 2018, at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. The CLARA claims MSA feature was developed to address a significant need in the market. While MSAs are designed to provide an estimate of future medical treatment costs for injured claimants to protect Medicare's interests at claim settlement, obtaining an MSA can be a time-intensive process that often takes weeks, requiring numerous back-and-forth emails with the vendor as well as hefty fees. Currently, payers spend hundreds of millions of dollars annually on acquiring MSAs and expend significant resources when their adjusters become bogged down in this process. CLARA's MSA solution changes this in a remarkably effective way. The new MSA feature is fully integrated within CLARA's AI-based claims product, which helps teams mitigate claim costs by identifying claims that are at risk for litigation or delays. All customers of CLARA's claims suite can receive the MSA feature incorporated into their CLARA suite product pricing. CLARA's MSA solution provides: Automated identification of claims likely to need an MSA ased on claim attributes

Automated MSA report generation at the push of a button

Ability to combine/separate multiple claims to assess cost differences

Updated reports as often as needed based on changing treatment under the claim

Push-button inclusion/exclusion of body parts and comorbid conditions at time of MSA generation

Availability in traditional CMS and EBM-based formats

CMS submission of final MSA, with amended reviews where indicated



CLARA will demo the MSA solution in its booth, 6530, at the National Workers' Compensation and Disability Conference. Additionally, CLARA Founder and CEO Jayant Lakshmikanthan will speak on Dec. 6, 11:50 a.m.-12:10 p.m., in the Solutions and Innovation Theater. His session, "3 Ways to Use AI to Supercharge Your Claims Operations," will provide practical advice on how to apply the power of AI to reduce costs, maximize efficiency, and achieve goals set by claims operations teams.

"The National Workers' Compensation and Disability Conference is the preeminent conference of our industry. There is no better place to unveil our MSA solution and to show claims professionals how effective AI-based technologies can be in addressing the needs of their organizations," said Lakshmikanthan. "We look forward to participating in this outstanding event and engaging with attendees as we work to transform claims operations." To learn more about CLARA claims and its MSA solution, please stop by booth 6530 at the conference or visit https://info.claraanalytics.com/data-sheet-msa. About CLARA analytics CLARA analytics improves claims outcomes in commercial insurance with easy-to-use artificial intelligence (AI)-based products. CLARA's suite helps claims teams reduce various sources of loss costs in claims handling by keeping claims on track throughout their life cycle. The suite uses the latest in AI and machine learning (ML) technology and can integrate easily into any workflow or infrastructure to rapidly start showing value. CLARA's customers include companies from the top 25 insurance carriers to small, self-insured organizations. CLARA analytics was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Silicon Valley in California. For more information, visit www.claraanalytics.com, and follow CLARA analytics on LinkedIn and Twitter. CLARA litigation, CLARA providers and CLARA claims are trademarks of CLARA analytics. All other brand names and solution names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Tags: CLARA analytics, artificial intelligence, AI, commercial insurance, machine learning, claims, Medicare Set-Aside, NWCDC, litigation, predictive analytics, workers compensation, data science View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005183/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Vantage Data Centers Completes $225 Million Financing to Accelerate Growth in Strategic Markets

Vantage Data Centers, a leading provider of wholesale data centers in support of business and mission-critical applications, today announced that it has successfully issued $225 million principal amount of securitized notes. The notes are rated A- by Standard & Poor's. This issuance, the Series 2018-2 notes, generally rank pari-passu with Vantage's up to $1.125 billion aggregate principal amount of Series 2018-1 notes issued in February 2018, which was the first ever securitization financing completed in the data center industry. The proceeds of the offering will be used to repay the current outstanding principal balance of Vantage's Series 2018-1 Class A-1 variable funding notes and for general corporate purposes, including the future development of data centers. This offering, combined with the company's existing liquidity, results in more than $500 million in available capital to fund data cener expansions.



"As the market opportunity continues to accelerate, Vantage has explored both new and traditional financing options to support our growth strategy, and we've been pleased with the response from the investment community," said Sharif Metwalli, Vantage's CFO. "This transaction provides us with additional dry powder to finance our growth in existing and new markets, meeting our hyperscale, cloud and enterprise customers where they need the wholesale, sustainable facilities we provide." The notes have not been, and will not be registered, under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold absent such registration, or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements thereunder. This press release is neither an offer to sell, nor a solicitation of an offer to buy any notes, nor shall there be any sale of the notes in any state or jurisdiction in which the offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction.

About Vantage Data Centers Vantage Data Centers is a leading North American wholesale data center services provider in three strategic markets: Silicon Valley; Northern Virginia; and Quincy, Washington. Vantage has seven operational facilities totaling 81MW of capacity and two additional facilities currently under construction totaling 51MW. The company provides highly scalable, flexible and efficient data center solutions to hyperscale, cloud and enterprise customers, offering unique value through its commitment to exceptional customer service and sustainability. For more information, please visit www.vantagedatacenters.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005256/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Welltower to Host Investor Day

TOLEDO, Ohio, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Welltower Inc. (NYSE:WELL) today announced that it will host an Investor Day on Tuesday, December 4, 2018 in New York City. Hosting the event will be Tom DeRosa, Chief Executive Officer, John Goodey, Chief Financial Officer, Shankh Mitra, Chief Investment Officer, Mercedes Kerr, Executive Vice President, and other members of the Company's management team. The Company will discuss the current health care real estate operating environment, its capital allocation strategy and will also provide a financial review and outlook, including introducing initial full-year 2019 earnings guidance. The format will include panel discussions as well as in depth presentations. Webcast Details

This event is intended for financial analysts and institutional investors and in-person attendance is by invitation only. The Investor Day will be webcast live, beginning at 1:00 PM ET and concluding at approximately 5:00 PM ET. The live webcast of the Investor Conference may be accessed from the Company's website and available in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.welltower.com/investors. In addition, questions for management may be submitted to [email protected] at any time prior to, or during the event. A replay of the webcast will also be available in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website beginning at 8:00 PM ET on Tuesday, December 4, 2018.



About Welltower

Welltower Inc. (NYSE:WELL), an S&P 500 company headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, is driving the transformation of health care infrastructure. The company invests with leading seniors housing operators, post-acute providers and health systems to fund the real estate infrastructure needed to scale innovative care delivery models and improve people's wellness and overall health care experience. Welltower, a real estate investment trust ("REIT"), owns interests in properties concentrated in major, high-growth markets in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, consisting of seniors housing and post-acute communities and outpatient medical properties. More information is available at www.welltower.com. We routinely post important information on our website at www.welltower.com in the "Investors" section, including corporate and investor presentations and financial information. We intend to use our website as a means of disclosing material, non-public information and for complying with our disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Such disclosures will be included on our website under the heading "Investors". Accordingly, investors should monitor such portion of the company's website in addition to following our press releases, public conference calls and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The information on our website is not incorporated by reference in this press release, and our web address is included as an inactive textual reference only.

View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/welltower-to-host-investor-day-300758933.html SOURCE Welltower Inc.

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] KRY First with Therapy Online for Children and Young People

STOCKHOLM, Dec 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Today KRY starts Sweden's first digital psychologist service for children and young people. The investment is an extension of the psychological services to adults, which has been offered since beginning 2018. "The need for psychiatric care among children and young people is extensive and waiting times in the traditional care is unacceptable.. With our new venture, we create opportunities for families to book an online meeting with a psychologist within a day", "says Martin Forster, leading the child psychology project at KRY. KRY's focus on psychological care for children and adolescents consists of first-line care, that is, the reception of patients with mild to moderate mental health. It can for example be children with anxiety, depression and conduct problems. . The treatment offered is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Meetings can be conducted with both guardians and the child, separate or together. Older children (16-17 years old) will also be able to book own meetings, without necessarily informing their guardians. "Many children and young people are used to online communication, which can lower the threshold of seeking help. It will also simplify the logistics involved in having meetings with teachers or separated parents, says Martin Forster. Leading researchers and policymakers have recently stated that psychiatric care needs to have a more preventive focus and be implemented in new ways, in particular through new technological solutions. KRY's initiative is a way to develop care in that direction and to take on a huge societal challenge. "Both in Sweden and in several other countries, we see a trend of increased mental health issues in the younger population. Online therapy is an effective and secure way to take on that challenging development, says Martin Forster. CONTACT: Head of Media Relations +46-70-591-89-25 [email protected] This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com The following files are available for download:







http://mb.cision.com/Public/16551/2690191/880ce67a91a26c61_org.png Martin-Forster

View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kry-first-with-therapy-online-for-children-and-young-people-300758934.html SOURCE KRY

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Houston Business and Community Leader Deavra Daughtry Graduates from Exclusive International Executive Program at Harvard Business School

Houston self-made business woman and community leader Deavra Daughtry recently graduated with a certificate from the exclusive Owner/President Management Program (OPM) at Harvard Business School alongside international business owners. Participants represent a diverse range of organizations from around the world and hold dual roles as owner and CEO or Managing Director of firms with annual sales ranging from several million to billions of dollars. Daughtry is the President and CEO of Excellent Care Management, one of the nation's largest personal in-home care agencies. After caring for her grandmother and friend, Daughtry was inspired to care for and help others. With only a few hundred dollars she founded Excellent Care Management in 1996 with a single employee. Now with over 1,200 employees, Daughtry is an innovative and diverse business woman. She is also the CEO of Excel E Care Home HealthCare and Purpose to Blessing Productions, as well as Owner and President of Platinum Results Marketing and International Decor & Events. Overcoming the odds, she has emerged to be one of Houston's top successful business owners. Motivated to give back and never forget where she came from, Daughtry formed the Texas Women's Empowerment Foundation (TWEF), serving as a catalyst for families to gain the necessary tools toward achieving and maintaining a true sense of empowerment-being inspired to reach their personal and professional goals. In 2006, Daughtry donated $1 million to build and develop the Empowerment Community Center. Additionally, she has raised and donated more than $350,000 in TWEF youth scholarships. Taking the next step as an entrepreneur who is always eager to learn and be exposed to other like-minded business leaders from around the world, Daughtry enrolled in the OPM at Harvard Business School. "The OPM Program is unparalleled in the world. We leverage the tremendous global convening power of the Harvard Business School to bring together high impact owner-managers to share, nfluence, and learn from each other." Dobbin O. Bookman, Director-OPM Harvard Business School.



The rigorous program spanned over three calendar years and proved to be one of the most intellectually challenging and personally rewarding experiences of Daughtry's life. Established more than 50 years ago, OPM is taught by Harvard Business School's faculty, focusing on the frameworks, technology, and strategic tools essential for success in today's competitive global business environment. OPM alumni and celebrity CEOs include Record Executive - LA Reid, TV Producer - Tyra Banks, Owner of Essence Magazine and Founder of Sundial Brands - Richelieu Dennis, and Celebrity Chef and Restaurateur - Wolfgang Puck just to name a few.

Daughtry said: "It was truly a phenomenal experience being accepted into the program and attend classes at such a prestigious university with so many gifted and culturally rich international business leaders. The program was intense, but extremely enriching, in that I was able to gain a wealth of friendships and have the opportunity to meet other CEOs and tap into their vast array of experiences and business knowledge. The exchange of information gave all of us an opportunity to learn and grow together. I was encouraged by HBS Faculty Chair Ananth Raman to expand and "Take A Shot". As an official ambassador of OPM, Daughtry will be leading the way for other female business women to reach their full potential by encouraging them to apply and attend the program. This comes naturally to Daughtry as her global foundation has been focusing on providing the resources women need for an empowering future since 2002. Daughtry has mentored women and girls from all over the United States, and several other countries. While Daughtry's accomplishments, awards and accolades are many, the crown of her social contribution is her Eagle Scholar's program, which has mentored and assisted hundreds of youth and teens in the greater Houston area. From food distribution and computer giveaways to College and University scholarships. Daughtry not only believes that the children are our future, but she also believes that what we do to empower them today, will pay off in big dividends tomorrow. Daughtry has been recognized locally, nationally and internationally by receiving numerous awards, including: 50 Most Influential Women, Certificate of Congressional Recognition, Community Service Award from the University of Texas, Global 7 Award, Houston Independent School District Philanthropy Award, MRM Foundation International Business Award, NAACP Presidential Award for Community Service, Outstanding Corporate Citizens Award by Houston International Trade Development Council, Pinnacle Award, Rare Pearls Women of Excellence, Super Natural Woman from New York, Texas Executive Women, The Legend Award, Top 30 Influential Women of Houston, and more. She has been featured in Essence Magazine, USA Today, Wall Street Journal and many other media outlets. For photos, see here and for more information on Daughtry's Community Work, visit www.TWEF.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005142/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Responding to Reported Marriott Data Breach, Leading Israeli Cybersecurity Firm ITsMine Provides AI Data Protection Tool Free of Charge

ITsMine, a leading cybersecurity company using AI based Data Loss Prevention (DLP) to secure organizational data, today announced that it will immediately provide its solution free of charge to the worldwide hotel industry through the end of 2019. The company made the announcement following headlines of Marriott's recent massive data breach that reportedly exposed the personal data, including passport numbers and credit card information, of approximately 500 million guests. Kfir Kimhi, CEO and Co-Founder of ITsMine, said, "Facing increasingly sophisticated cybersecurity attacks and data breaches, companies must find new and improved ways of storing critical customer data. We hope that by offering our advanced solutions free of charge, we will encourage hotels to take immediate action, on protecting the valuable data of their guests." Current DLP solutions struggle to identify that a data breach has occurred, let alone the extent of the breach. The ITsMine solution offers a new approach to Data Loss Prevention (DLP), guaranteeing protection from internal and external attackers, without hindering the workflow of employees. ITsMine's fully automated solution offers reduced depoyment time and provides the best protection, while detecting breaches in real-time and actively blocking data loss.



Moshe Raines, Managing Partner at Labs/02, ITsMine's lead investor, said, "This seems to be one of the largest such security breaches in history, demonstrating a serious security concern in the hotel industry. When it comes to personal information, companies must have data loss protection systems that are up to the task of meeting the challenge of today's sophisticated hacking threats. We are confident that if hotels and other organizations deploy advanced DLP solution like ITsMine, future losses of this kind can be prevented." To receive ITsMine's full DLP solution, free of charge for the first year, please e-mail [email protected]. Installation takes about two hours.

Notes to Editors About ITsMine: ITsMine, an OurCrowd Labs/02, seed stage incubator portfolio company, was founded by Kfir Kimhi, a former Security Architect at Check Point Software (News - Alert) Technologies Ltd, and a team of IDF technology veterans and experts. Founded in 2017, with its headquarters in Israel, the ITsMine cybersecurity platform powered by artificial intelligence, offers a new unique approach for Data Loss Prevention (DLP), guaranteeing protection from internal and external attackers, without hindering the workflow of employees. ITsMine's fully automated solution reduces the deployment time and maps out the organization data to provide the best protection. For more information visit https://www.itsmine.io/. ITsMine is a part of the OurCrowd Labs/02, seed stage incubator portfolio, which focuses on cutting-edge technology that will shape the future in innovative areas including AI, deep learning, autonomous transportation and smart cities. For Press Materials click here. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005561/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Vcinity and Network Runners Partner to Exhibit Mission-Critical Technology at CDCA Defense Summit

Vcinity, Inc., a leading provider of data access-on-demand solutions, and Network Runners, Inc., a top technology consulting services company that supports the commercial and federal government market spaces, today announced they will partner and showcase cutting-edge defense systems at the Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA) Defense Summit in Charleston, S.C., on Dec. 5-6, 2018, at booth 109. "Network Runners is continuing its legacy of delivering expertly tailored technology to the DoD and its contractors by partnering with Vcinity to feature its data access-on-demand solutions," said Manoj Bhatia, President and Co-founder of Network Runners. "Providing our customers with access to data in-place reduces copy sprawl resulting in better security and protection of data assets, which is a pillar of the DoD's cyber strategy. As an economically-disadvantaged, woman-owned small business (EDWOSB) based in Virginia, we value partnering with fellow innovators to bring the Do and the Warfighter the most applicable technology."



CDCA is one of the largest defense-focused events on the East Coast and brings together more than 1,000 government and industry leaders to spark ideas, innovation and solutions to technology challenges. The technology showcased helps provide full spectrum of defense technologies, with particular focus in C5ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Combat Systems, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance), information warfare and cybersecurity. "With the DoD's increased focus on cybersecurity, our mission is to provide the Warfighter with the most effective technology to gain reliable access to critical, distributed data with or without moving it," said Harry Carr, President & CEO of Vcinity. "Our solutions are used across the defense and intelligence communities and support industry-standard access controls for information governance and in-flight AES encryption for secure data access. Our partnership with Network Runners further strengthens our combined focus to connect government organizations and contractors with best solutions and contract vehicles to uphold mission goals."

The Summit will explore topics including the 12 points of National Defense Strategy, Rapid Innovation, Unmanned Systems, IoT, Research & Development and Cyber Hardening. With the latest in end-to-end IT enterprise technology, the Summit is the premier venue on the East Coast to educate, network and increase understanding of the Department of Defense, modernization solutions and improved support for the Warfighter. About Vcinity Vcinity, Inc. enables global enterprises to turn their data into a strategic advantage through unbounded access to data anywhere, anytime. With our patented data access-on-demand solutions, enterprises can make leaps forward in digital transformation, business agility, productivity, revenue and operational scalability and efficiency. Information about Vcinity can be found at vcinity.io. About Network Runners Network Runners, Inc. (NRI) is a growing technology consulting services company serving the Commercial and Federal market space since 2009. While continuing to serve its original Commercial clients, NRI's largest presence is now in the Civil and Department of Defense agencies; providing Information Technology and Organizational Support solutions to the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, Joint Agencies, DIA, USDA/NIFA, USDA/FNS, USDA/FSIS, USDA/FSA, BPD, BFS etc. Headquartered in Sterling, Virginia, NRI is an established ISO 9001: 2015 and CMMI Maturity Level 3, Woman Owned Small Business, Virginia MBE and Maryland MBE. For more information, visit www.networkrunners.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005082/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] The American Express Business Platinum Card Evolves with New Productivity and Travel Solutions

American Express (News - Alert) (NYSE: AXP) today announced enhanced premium business and travel solutions for Business Platinum Card Members coming in 2019. Designed for the modern mobile and global working world, updates to the Business Platinum Card include a suite of solutions to improve productivity and an updated rewards structure that benefits business travelers' lives on the go. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005574/en/ The American Express Business Platinum Card Evolves with New Productivity and Travel Solutions (Graphic: Business Wire) In February 2019, Business Platinum Card Members will receive information about Platinum Global Access from WeWork, which includes one year of complimentary access to WeWork locations around the world. Platinum Global Access from WeWork provides convenient workspaces, and on-site support and amenities, so Card Members can be more productive when they travel. In addition, Card Members will receive a Shop Dell (News - Alert) with Business Platinum benefit of up to $200 in statement credits annually for purchases made directly at Dell. This benefit helps Card Members stay ahead in today's fast-paced world with Dell's technology solutions designed for small businesses. "The way people do business is changing, and there are still barriers to staying productive on the go, which is why we're introducing solutions that support our customers' agility and productivity - anywhere they need them," said Courtney Kelso, Head of U.S. Commercial Card Products at American Express. "The Business Platinum Card is designed to give business owners an edge, and we're thrilled to bring WeWork and Dell on as partners to give our customers the business tools, global office space and technology they need to take their business even further." These new premium solutions join existing Business Platinum reward options and benefits, including: 5X Membership Rewards  points on prepaid travel on amextravel.com

points on prepaid travel on amextravel.com 1.5X Membership Rewards  points on eligible purchases of $5,000 or more, up to 1 million additional points per year

points on eligible purchases of $5,000 or more, up to 1 million additional points per year 35% points back after use of the Pay with Points feature for all or part of an eligible flight, up to 500,000 points back per calendar year

New Centurion  Lounge locations in Philadelphia and Hong Kong, and a newly expanded location in the Dallas Fort Worth airport. This is in addition to a collection of more than 1,200 airport lounges globally, including The Centurion Lounges, Airspace, Priority Pass Select, and Delta Sky Club when flying Delta

Lounge locations in Philadelphia and Hong Kong, and a newly expanded location in the Dallas Fort Worth airport. This is in addition to a collection of more than 1,200 airport lounges globally, including The Centurion Lounges, Airspace, Priority Pass Select, and Delta Sky Club when flying Delta $200 Airline Fee Credit, a Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck program application, and many other existing premium travel benefits Learn more about and find the terms for these existing rewards options and benefits of the Business Platinum Card at https://www.americanexpress.com/businessplatinum. ONE YEAR OF GLOBAL ACCESS TO WEWORK SPACES AROUND THE WORLD Nearly half (49%) of businesses globally are planning to implement remote working options, according to a survey of executives1. Starting in February 2019, Business Platinum Card Members will get information about Platinum Global Access from WeWork. Card Members will have complimentary access to WeWork's global network of 335 workspaces in 83 cities and 24 countries, valued at $2,700. With Wi-Fi, pantries, dedicated onsite staff and more, WeWork's portfolio of high-performance workspace will provide Card Members with the amenities they need to do their best work. "With this partnership, Business Platinum Card Members will not only have access to WeWork's network of workspace and amenities, but will be part of WeWork's community of 320,000 members around the world," said Marcy Shinder, Global Head of Marketing at WeWork. "WeWork member companies report that their proximity to other members gives them a competitive edge, and 81 percent credit WeWork with improving their company's productivity. We're excited to support American Express Card Members with the space, community and services they need to continue to grow and succeed." SHOP DELL WITH BUSINESS PLATINUM FOR BUSINESS PURCHASES Also starting in February 2019, Business Platinum Card Members can take advantage of an exclusive benefit from Dell helping improve productivity and empower their business with the tools and technology necessary to be successful. Technology topped the list of planned capital investments in a survey of U.S. business owners2. The new partnership with Dell provides Business Platinum Card Members with up to $200 in statement credits annually for purchases made directly at Dell. Card Members will receive more information about this benefit and how to enroll in the new Shop Dell with Business Platinum benefit in February 2019. MAKE BUSINESS TRAVELEVEN MORE PRODUCTIVE - AND ENJOYABLE



Throughout 2019, Business Platinum Card Members will receive more information about the growing suite of benefits, more value for travel purchases and new ways to earn and use points, including: $100 hotel credit on qualifying charges at hundreds of properties in The Hotel Collection (increased from $75) - for new reservations made after January 1, 2019 when booked through Amex Travel.

Card Members can now earn 5X Membership Rewards  or use Pay with Points on prepaid bookings of select Fine Hotels & Resorts  properties on amextravel.com, with expansion to more properties throughout 2019.

or use Pay with Points on prepaid bookings of select Fine Hotels & Resorts properties on amextravel.com, with expansion to more properties throughout 2019. New Centurion Lounge locations coming to New York JFK, LA and Denver airports, as well as the expanded Centurion Lounge in Miami. UNLOCK FLEXIBLE FINANCING SOLUTIONS

In addition to new and existing benefits and a heritage of personalized service, eligible Card Members with Business Platinum may also qualify for products that provide easy and quick financing options, including: Working Capital Terms offers short term financing options to help businesses pay vendor invoices and manage cash flow. More information can be found here.

offers short term financing options to help businesses pay vendor invoices and manage cash flow. More information can be found here. Business Loans , a term loan, helps pre-approved American Express Business Card Members with access to working capital and short term financing. More information can be found here. Business Platinum Card Members can also access a suite of other business productivity solutions, including the ability to sync a number of tools to help with expense organization: Spend Manager - An app that helps businesses simplify, organize and control expenses by capturing receipt images and matching them to Business Card and Corporate Card accounts.

- An app that helps businesses simplify, organize and control expenses by capturing receipt images and matching them to Business Card and Corporate Card accounts. Connect to QuickBooks - A tool that automatically transfers Business Card transactions to Card Member's QuickBooks daily.

- A tool that automatically transfers Business Card transactions to Card Member's QuickBooks daily. Year End Summary - A tool that allows Card Members to see a complete summary categorizing their spend by month and purchase. FEE CHANGE DETAILS Along with these changes the annual membership fee for Business Platinum will be $595. This fee increase will not take effect until the Card Member's next renewal date on or after the February 2019 billing cycle. Business Platinum Card Members will receive a notice with more details about fee changes and added offers and benefits soon. More information and full benefits of the Business Platinum Card can be found at https://www.americanexpress.com/businessplatinum. 1 The American Express SME Pulse 2018: Strategies for Sustainable Growth report was conducted by Oxford Economics on behalf of American Express. In October and November 2017, Oxford Economics surveyed senior executives at 3,000 small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs), ranging in size from 10 to 250 employees across 12 countries and 16 industries.

2 The 2017 American Express OPEN Small Business Monitor is based on a nationally representative sample of 700 U.S. small business owners/managers of companies with fewer than 100 employees. The anonymous survey was conducted via telephone by Ebiquity on March 29 - April 21, 2017. The poll has a margin of error of +/- 3.7% at the 95% level of confidence. ABOUT AMERICAN EXPRESS American Express is a global services company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Learn more at americanexpress.com and connect with us on facebook.com/americanexpress, instagram.com/americanexpress, linkedin.com/company/american-express, twitter.com/americanexpress, and youtube.com/americanexpress. Key links to products, services and corporate responsibility information: charge and credit cards, business credit cards, travel services, gift cards, prepaid cards, merchant services, Accertify, InAuth, corporate card, business travel, and corporate responsibility. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005574/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] EscapeNet Deploys IP Infusion's OcNOS Network Operating System To Deliver Services for the GigCity Adelaide Network

IP Infusion, a leading provider of intelligent network software for telecom and data communications services, announced that EscapeNet, an Australian Internet Service Provider (ISP), has deployed the OcNOS network operating system and developed a disaggregated networking model to power the GigCity Adelaide Network, an initiative of the Government of South Australia, offering gigabit speed services to innovation precincts across metro Adelaide. The initiative has been able to achieve highly affordable, ultrahigh speed services for businesses and startups due to the network's low CapEx and OpEx requirements. The GigCity Adelaide Network is a four-year, $7.8 million (AUD) initiative, which connected 13 innovation precincts during the first stage in 2017 and plans to deliver 15 additional innovation precincts during the second stage. EscapeNet won an open tender to design, build and operate services to the precincts. OcNOS is the industry's first full-featured network OS for White Box (News - Alert) and features include advanced capabilities, such as extensive switching and routing protocol support, MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching), and SDN (software defined networking). OcNOS features hybrid, centralized or distribute network support; scalable, modular high-performance network; and a robust data plane built on merchant silicon. Working with IP Infusion (News - Alert) and adding disaggregated networking hardware, EscapeNet architected a network design centering on four local data centers. Innovation precincts are connected to two data centers with iverse fiber paths ensuring a highly available network. The extensive use of multiple fiber paths was feasible because of the not-for-profit fiber network, SABRENet, which serves the Adelaide research, education and innovation community.



The disaggregated networking design builds from a layer 3 Ethernet-based foundation complimented with EVPN VXLAN as the layer 2 technology. The design choice benefited from EVPN route control, layer2 flood control, multihoming and service multiplexing features. "By relying on the industry proven and robust OcNOS and EVPN VXLAN solution, EscapeNet can offer production services with the highest quality of service," Stavros Patiniotis, Managing Director of EscapeNet. "IP Infusion's extensive software development experience coupled with disaggregated networking hardware enables us to develop a disaggregated networking solution that brings GigCity valuable additional services at a lower cost."

"By deploying OcNOS for their disaggregated networking solution, EscapeNet takes advantage of open networking benefits of lower CapEx and OpEx expenses and the agility to spin up new services faster," said Atsushi Ogata, President and CEO of IP Infusion. "With the addition of OcNOS, EscapeNet has another excellent tool in its toolbox in its dedication to run a truly next generation network which employs market leading technologies throughout its infrastructure." About EscapeNet Founded in 1996, EscapeNet is a licenses telecommunications carrier leveraging a national footprint to deliver voice, data and cloud solutions. Servicing consumer, business and government organizations using multi-technology delivery including nbn and carrier fiber networks. EscapeNet is an Australian owned and operated company maintaining a local support and engineering presence, based in Adelaide, South Australia. For more information, https://www.esc.net.au/. About IP Infusion IP Infusion, the leader in disaggregated networking solutions, delivers enterprise and carrier-grade software solutions allowing network operators to reduce network costs, increase flexibility, and to deploy new features and services quickly. IP Infusion's OcNOS, the industry's first enterprise and carrier-grade network operating system for Open Compute hardware, allows for easier implementation of large-scale IT networks, and offers customers white box solutions to deploy more quickly. VirNOS, an NFV-based software platform, provides carriers and enterprises with a cost-effective network OS approach to implement and manage their networking services. With the OcNOS and VirNOS network operating systems, both powered by ZebOS, IP Infusion offers network operators, carriers, and enterprises with the physical and virtual software solutions they need to achieve the disaggregated networking model. Over 300 customers worldwide, including major networking equipment manufacturers, use IP Infusion's respected ZebOS platform to build networks to address the evolving needs of cloud, carrier and mobile networking. IP Infusion is headquartered in Santa Clara, Calif., and is a wholly owned and independently operated subsidiary of ACCESS CO., LTD. Additional information can be found at http://www.ipinfusion.com. IP Infusion, ZebOS, VirNOS and OcNOS are trademarks or registered trademarks of IP Infusion. ACCESS is registered trademarks or trademarks of ACCESS CO., LTD. in the United States, Japan and/or other countries. Northforge Innovations is a registered trademark of Northforge Innovations, Inc. All other trademarks, service marks, registered trademarks, or registered service marks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005210/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] New Real Estate Tech Service, Particip8 Realty, Launches in Greater Boston Area, Revolutionizing Traditional Home Selling Process

Particip8 Realty, an online real estate technology service designed to empower modern home sellers to save thousands in agent fees, announced today its official launch in the Greater Boston area. Founded and developed by Mike Russo, a 20-year industry veteran with extensive luxury real estate experience, Particip8 Realty combines the power of the internet with simplified, affordable pricing plans, allowing users to regain control over home sales and bypass the traditional broker process. "Particip8 Realty was founded out of a necessity to offer a home-selling solution that doesn't ultimately cost sellers unnecessary fees," said Mike Russo, founder and developer of Particip8 Realty. "I believe in the consumer and I don't believe people should overpay in order to sell their homes. Through our thoughtful pricing and private consultations, we are able to recommend the appropriate plan of action for sellers, yielding fast results and significant returns at a noteworthy discount." Particip8 Realty provides four approachable packages tailored to the seller's preference. This model encourages autonomous selling and provides the capability to have a guided or agent-managed sale, which still costs less than the traditional broker option. Through a free consultation, Particip8 Realty representatives work with prospective sellers to identify their goals, level of selling-savvy and provides a recommended pricing plan, ranging from the independent-selling Basic Plan for $199, the guided Essential Plan for $1,499, the time-saving Agent Pro plan for one percent of the sale, and the Unlimited Plan for a more hands-off approach. Based on the level of required assistance, the Particip8 Realty pricing plans were designed to support a broad spectrum of seller's needs. The Basic Plan was develope for the DIY-seller who only needs online listing support uploading to the MLS, Zillow, Redfin, Trulia, Realtor.com etc. The Essential Plan offers more guidance with items such as professional photography, an agent-hosted open house, and contract negotiation. Home sellers interested in saving time are able to enlist the support of a full-time agent with the Agent Pro Plan, and those in need of further support can utilize the bespoke offerings of the Unlimited Plan.



In a recent case study, an Arlington, MA seller saved $22,376 in fees through the Basic Plan. The property was off the market in five days and was sold 20 percent over the original listing price of $749,000. In May 2018, a Marshfield, MA-based seller utilized Particip8 Realty to sell her condo home, and within one-hour post-phone consultation her property was listed on the MLS, followed by a successful open house a few days later. By seeking the Particip8 Realty team's expert advice, the seller was able to save $6,000. With more than two decades of luxury real estate industry experience, Mike Russo developed Particip8 Realty in 2017 after identifying inconsistencies in the broker-seller relationship. Mike strives to save users on traditional home selling fees, while empowering agents to increase their own profits through a simplified process that allows portfolio expansion and bypassing time-consuming, outdated industry practices. Particip8 Realty is currently available in the Greater Boston area and is projected to expand nationally. For more information, visit P8realty.com or call 855-537-7325.

About Mike Russo: With an extensive background in global luxury residential real estate, Mike Russo is an accomplished power player with two decades of industry experience, boasting quantifiable success closing record-setting transactions on an international scale. Most recently, Russo served as director of business development and COO of Concierge Auctions, a global real estate marketplace specializing in the auction sale of luxury homes, where he personally handled over 350 property sales across 20 states and in 15 countries. During his tenure, Russo spearheaded numerous sales and technology initiatives that helped Concierge grow to more than $1 billion in historical sales in just seven years. Prior to Concierge Auctions, Russo served as the Vice President of Realogy/Cendant, one of the largest real estate franchisors. In 2009, Russo created and founded Rezora, a digital marketing platform targeted towards the real estate industry. Under Russo's guidance, both Concierge Auctions and Rezora were included on the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies list and now he has his sights set on Particip8 reaching that list quickly. Through a culmination of his industry experience and entrepreneurial-savvy, Russo offers the Greater Boston area Particip8 Realty, designed to save users thousands in unnecessary fees while empowering local brokers to reach target sales goals. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005810/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Scalys TrustBox Offers Military Grade Secure Communication Solution

HENGELO, Netherlands, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Scalys TrustBox is a high-grade secure router & IoT gateway for safe and trusted communication with the connected world. It secures the communication and connectivity of connected devices up to a military grade of security. Combining high throughput with hardware hardened security features into one device, the TrustBox provides a secure internet connection experience whether it is used on-the-go or at home. Unparalleled security

The TrustBox is based around the NXP Layerscape LS1012A networking processor with integrated networking acceleration. By combining this SoC with a high-grade secure hardware architecture and the ability to block cyber-attacks, TrustBox manufacturer Scalys has achieved a level of security that greatly surpasses that of devices primarily relying on software-based security. Designed using in-depth knowledge of military grade electronic devices and incorporating comprehensive IoT gateway, VPN and router solutions, the TrustBox is ideal for consumer, networking and industrial IoT applications alike. Following the rich set of security embedded in the TrustBox, the product is also certifiable to the highest level of industry security standards. Associated industry leaders

In designing and developing the TrustBox, Scalys has partnered up with industry leaders NXP and Microsoft. Hans Klos, CEO at Scalys, said, "Scalys has developed the TrustBox because we see cybersecurity as a key emerging risk and believe that high-grade secure communication solutions are necessary nowadays. Together with our strong partners Microsoft and NXP, we have succeeded in building this cyber secure communication platform." Sam Fuller, Director of Marketing at NXP, was quoted as saying, "The engineers at Scalys have put the Trust Architecture security features of the NXP Layerscape LS1012A networking processor to excellent use in the TrustBox. Integrating a hardware root of trust and cryptographic accelerators, NXP's Layerscape family helps enable companies such as Scalys implement secure routers and IoT devices." Sam George, Director of Azure IoT Engineering at Microsoft, stated, "Securing IoT is complex and needs to be addressed at every layer. We are focused on addressing IoT security of the whole solution  from chip to software and the cloud. TrustBox's highly secure hardware, along with the Open Enclave SDK provided by Microsoft, complements the secure software in Microsoft Azure IoT Edge and connects safely to Microsoft Azure IoT Hub and other Azre cloud services."



CES 2019 Best of Innovation Award

On November 8th the TrustBox was named a CES 2019 Best of Innovation Awards in the Category Cybersecurity and Personal Privacy . The announcement was made during CES Unveiled New York, an invite-only tech event bringing together top media, exhibitors and industry leaders for a sneak peek of the products and trends expected at CES 2019, which will run January 8-11, 2019 in Las Vegas, NV. Expected delivery

The Scalys TrustBox is expected to be shipped from March 2019.

Please click here to pre-order a TrustBox.

About Scalys

Scalys offers a unique set of High-Grade Secure Communication solutions and products. We create enterprise-class performance and security, combining leading technology with innovative design concepts to modernize and secure the communication of connected devices. About CES

CES is the world's gathering place for all who thrive on the business of consumer technologies. It has served as the proving ground for innovators and breakthrough technologies for 50 years-the global stage where next-generation innovations are introduced to the marketplace. As the largest hands-on event of its kind, CES features all aspects of the industry. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), it attracts the world's business leaders and pioneering thinkers. The CES Innovation Awards are based upon descriptive materials submitted to the judges. CTA did not verify the accuracy of any submission or of any claims made and did not test the item to which the award was given. About CES 2019 Best of Innovation Award

An annual program that celebrates outstanding design, the CES Innovation Awards recognizes honorees across 28 product categories. An elite panel of judges, including designers, engineers and members of the tech media, reviews submissions based on design, functionality, consumer appeal, engineering and how the products compare with competition. Those products recognized as the Best of Innovation honorees received the highest ratings in their respective product categories. Media Contact:

For further information please contact Roland Santegoeds, Communications Manager.

Email: [email protected] Phone: +31 74 25 55 712 Related Images scalys-trustbox.png

Scalys TrustBox

The Scalys TrustBox is the CES 2019 Best of Innovation Award winner in the Category Cybersecurity and Personal Privacy. scalys-trustbox.jpg

Scalys TrustBox

The Scalys TrustBox is the CES 2019 Best of Innovation Award winner in the Category Cybersecurity and Personal Privacy. scalys-logo.jpg

Scalys Logo

Scalys Logo scalys-trustbox-ces-award-and.jpg

Scalys TrustBox CES award and Azure certified

The Scalys TrustBox is the CES 2019 Best of Innovation Award winner in the Category Cybersecurity and Personal Privacy. Azure Certified. Related Links Simplifying confidential computing: Azure IoT Edge security with enclaves TrustBox Microsoft Azure certified View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/scalys-trustbox-offers-military-grade-secure-communication-solution-300759198.html SOURCE Scalys BV

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] Mid Atlantic Announces Agreement for Strategic Acquisition of First Mercantile

Mid Atlantic Capital Group ("Mid Atlantic"), a leading provider of technology, infrastructure, and support services to financial intermediaries, announced that it has closed on a transaction to acquire First Mercantile Trust Company ("First Mercantile") from Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. ("MassMutual") as of November 30, 2018. The transaction, which has completed all applicable regulatory approvals (including an approval from the Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions), marks a continuation of Mid Atlantic's effort to provide best-in-class product offerings to support financial professionals. "We are continually looking for opportunities to improve our ability to serve our client base and provide our business partners with additional tools to expand their business," said Paul Schneider, CEO of Mid Atlantic. "First Mercantile's collective trust fund products are industry leading and provide a distinct value to financial intermediaries offering retirement solutions to their clients." "Like Mid Atlantic, First Mercantile is focused on the small to midsize retirement plan space where both companies share a client centric culture," said Tim Friday, Group CEO of Mid Atlantic. "We look forward to welcoming First Mercantile's well-seasoned, customer focused team to the Mid Atlantic organization and are especially excited about their strong collective fund capabilities." "We are excited to be joining the Mid Atlantic family," said James Pratt, President of First Mercantile. "Mid Atlantic represents an ideal partner who can help us continue our mission of serving the needs of financial intermediaries, plan sponsors, and plan participants." John Moody, CEO of Edge Holdings (the parent ompany of Mid Atlantic) added, "First Mercantile represents the first of what we hope will be many acquisitions designed to support our mission of providing superior technology, products, and services to financial intermediaries."



"MassMutual is pleased that First Mercantile Trust Co. will continue to serve its customers for their retirement needs," said Teresa Hassara, Head of MassMutual Workplace Solutions business. "While MassMutual remains committed to its core retirement plans marketplace, First Mercantile's niche capabilities and market focus align with Mid Atlantic's strategy." About Mid Atlantic

Mid Atlantic Capital Group is a leading financial services organization that provides a wide array of brokerage, advisory, trust, and custody services to a diverse national client base of financial advisors and institutions, asset managers, and benefits administrators through its various subsidiary companies. With assets under custody or administration of approximately $90B, its broker/dealer, registered investment advisor, and trust company serve over 8,000 financial advisors and 500 financial institutions on behalf of more than 265,000 customer accounts and one million retirement plan participants. For more information, visit www.macg.com.

About First Mercantile

First Mercantile Trust Company is a financial services company that provides niche services, including collective investment trusts (CIT's), directed trustee and custodian accounts, and recordkeeping services for employer-sponsored retirement savings plans. First Mercantile serves primarily small- to mid-market corporate plan sponsors in a wide range of industries. Organized under the laws of the State of Tennessee, First Mercantile is located in Memphis. For more information, visit www.firstmerc.com. About MassMutual

MassMutual is a leading mutual life insurance company that is run for the benefit of its members and participating policyowners. MassMutual offers a wide range of financial products and services, including life insurance, disability income insurance, long term care insurance, annuities, retirement plans and other employee benefits. For more information, visit www.massmutual.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005960/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] NXT Robotics Announces Service Partnership with Ricoh

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Reflecting a growing global demand for industrial robots, NXT Robotics, an emerging security robotics firm, has announced an on-site service partnership with Ricoh USA Inc. This partnership leverages the RICOH Service Advantage program and utilizes Ricoh's vast global network of repair and service specialists. RICOH Service Advantage offers businesses access to Ricoh's global network of highly skilled and certified services employees. It empowers businesses to work smarter by capitalizing on business growth opportunities, driving new revenues and profits, and delivering consistent customer experiences by providing these qualified resources as an extension of customers' operations teams. With NXT, Service Advantage will bring the highest levels of expertise for its AI-driven software operating systems that keep the robots operating at full capacity at outsource locales throughout the United States. "As we add more security robots to our fleet and accelerate the rollout of our Cognitive Robotics Platform to customers," said NXT Robotics CEO/Co-founder Darin Andersen, "our partnership with Ricoh allows us to provide service on a round-the-clock basis throughout the globe, expanding our footprint and business." Added Andersen: "Now, whenever we have an urgent need for on-site repairs, service and/or replacement parts, we're able to quickly deploy a select team from Ricoh's exceptional corps of more than 17,000 experts, helping enure our customers deliver the uptime required to meet their clients' needs."



According to Dale Walsh, Director of Innovation for Ricoh Service Advantage, "We're committed to helping companies like NXT address their customers' needs, by providing the highest level of service on their robots and helping ensure that their customers realize maximum uptime for their technology investment." Walsh also stated: "As a startup with early success, NXT has impressed our team with its leadership and pioneering vision, especially valued traits in this exceptionally fast-growing and uncharted technology."

In August 2018, NXT announced a working partnership to provide on-site security robots and software technology to Ace Parking, a San Diego-based parking services firm with a network of nation-wide clients including major structures, stadiums and casinos. About NXT Robotics: NXT Robotics is a San Diego, CA-based company that provides computer software for its Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), commonly known as robots, to support increased security monitoring and alerting requirements. Founded in 2014, the company's unique autonomous platforms deliver security-related services while meeting performance and cost expectations for indoor and outdoor applications. About Ricoh: Ricoh is empowering digital workplaces using innovative technologies and services enabling individuals to work smarter. For more than 80 years, Ricoh has been driving innovation and is a leading provider of document management solutions, IT services, commercial and industrial printing, digital cameras, and industrial systems. Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh Group operates in approximately 200 countries and regions. In the financial year ended March 2018, Ricoh Group had worldwide sales of nearly $20 billion. Contact: NXT Robotics

Darin Andersen, CEO/Co-founder

NXT Robotics Corp

1855 First Avenue, Suite 102

San Diego, CA 92101

c) 619-341-4086

www.nxtrobotics.com Contact: Media/PR

John Freeman

Point PR Communications

c) 619-274-2779

[email protected] View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nxt-robotics-announces-service-partnership-with-ricoh-300759330.html SOURCE NXT Robotics

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] SoftBank Group Brings Cutting-Edge Robotics to Students in North America

SoftBank Group Corp. ("SBG") announced today that the company will be donating more than 100 of humanoid robot, Pepper, to schools in North America. The educational initiative launched last month and incorporates Pepper into the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) and Boston Public Schools (BPS) curriculums. Donations will continue through September 2021, anticipating a gradual increase in the number of students impacted by the SoftBank Group's ongoing educational programs. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005343/en/ SoftBank Group brings cutting-edge robotics to students in North America (Photo: Business Wire) "Pepper has been utilized in classrooms to empower education through engaging and innovative tools," says Rikiya Yamaguchi, CSR (News - Alert) Group Manager at SBG. "Extending our program into North America is an important step in our commitment to teach students computer science and robotics, bolster STEM*1 programs while providing this new engaging digital channel for education and research worldwide." Following SBG's "Pepper Social Contribution Program" that kicked off in Japan in April 2017 more than 2,000 Peppers have been loaned to over 17,000 classrooms. With the goal of continuing to strengthen academic capabilities and possibilities in robotics and research, SBG is leveraging the experience and knowledge gained from the program in Japan to contribute to STEM education in North America, helping nurture future sciece and technology professionals.



"With our society increasingly reliant on computing, we believe all students must develop a strong foundation in computer science, regardless of their background or ultimate career. We help students develop skills and mindsets as creators of technology," says Bryan Twarek, Computer Science Supervisor at SFUSD. "When the SoftBank Group approached us with this partnership, we jumped at the opportunity to bring cutting edge technologies into our classrooms." SBG will be working with SoftBank Robotics America ("SBRA") to distribute Pepper in North America. Pepper has currently been donated to institutions including Simon Fraser University, the San Francisco Unified School District and Boston Public Schools. Pepper will continue to be used to support schools' STEM outreach events and in "Invent the Future" workshops, which teach students about technology, as well as in schools as greeters and ambassadors. Additional donations and education initiatives will continue to be a part of SBG education initiatives.

"We expect Pepper will make the perfect partner to awaken the interest of our students in the fields of computer science and robotics," says Mark Racine, Chief Information Officer at BPS. "We have been working very closely with SBG and SBRA to develop a curriculum that excites, engages and prepares today's students for tomorrow's workforce." For more information on SBG, visit https://group.softbank/en/. For more information on SoftBank Robotics and Pepper, please visit www.softbankrobotics.com. About the SoftBank Group

The SoftBank Group is a global technology player that aspires to drive the Information Revolution (News - Alert). The SoftBank Group is comprised of the holding company SoftBank Group Corp. (TOKYO:9984) and its global portfolio of companies, which includes advanced telecommunications, internet services, AI, smart robotics, IoT and clean energy technology providers. In September 2016, Arm Limited, the world's leading semiconductor IP company, joined the SoftBank Group. In May 2017, the SoftBank Vision Fund, which invests globally in the businesses and technologies that will enable the next stage of the Information Revolution, had its first major close with over USD 93 billion in committed capital. To learn more, please visit www.softbank.com. *1 Educational policy that emphasizes Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics SoftBank, the SoftBank name and logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of SoftBank Group Corp. in Japan and other countries.

Other company names, product/service names included in this press release are registered/non-registered trademarks of the respective companies. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005343/en/

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ][December 03, 2018] APX Group Holdings, Inc. to Attend Bank of America Merrill Lynch 2018 Leveraged Finance Conference

APX Group Holdings, Inc. ("APX Group" "Vivint") today announced its participation at the Bank of America Merrill Lynch 2018 Leveraged Finance Conference being held at the Boca Raton Resort & Club in Boca Raton, FL on December 4 - 5, 2018. Vivint will be hosting one on one and small group meetings with investors, but will not be making a management presentation at the conference. About Vivint Smart Home Vivint Smart Home is a leading provider of smart home services in North America. Vivint dlivers an integrated smart home system with in-home consultation, professional installation and support delivered by its Smart Home Pros, as well as 24-7 customer care and monitoring. Dedicated to redefining the home experience with intelligent products and services, Vivint Smart Home serves more than one million customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. For more information, visit www.vivint.com.



View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20181203005999/en/



[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]Tom's Guide is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn moreSamsung Galaxy S20 FE review: A value triumph Editor's Choice

The Galaxy S20 FE packs all the best features of the Galaxy S20 into a more affordable package, but there are some trade-offs if you get this phone.We all knew it was coming, and today it has officially arrived. Nvidia has announced its Turing-powered Titan RTX. Although the chipmaker markets the graphics card for AI researchers, deep learning developers, data scientists, and content creators, the Titan RTX will undoubtedly find its way into many top-tier gaming systems as well.

(Image credit: Nvidia)

The Titan RTX is now also known as the T-Rex because Nvidia claims it's the most powerful desktop graphics card on the planet. The graphics card features 4,608 CUDA cores and comes clocked with a 1,350MHz base clock and a 1,770MHz boost clock. With its 576 Tensor cores and 72 RT cores, the Titan RTX can supply up to 130 teraflops of deep learning performance and 11 GigaRays of ray tracing performance. The graphics card also comes equipped with 24GB of high-performance GDDR6 memory, twice the amount of previous-gen Titan models, to deliver up to 672 GB/s of bandwidth. The memory operates at 1,750MHz (14,000MHz effective) across a 384-bit memory interface.

Titan RTX Titan V Quadro RTX 5000 RTX 2080 Ti FE Architecture (GPU) Turing (TU102) Volta (GV100) Turing (TU104) Turing (TU102) CUDA Cores 4608 5120 3072 4352 Peak FP32 Compute 16.3 TFLOPS 13.8 TFLOPS 11.2 TFLOPS 14.2 TFLOPS Tensor Cores 576 640 384 544 RT Cores 72 N/A 48 68 Texture Units 288 320 192 272 Base Clock Rate 1350 MHz 1200 MHz 1620 MHz 1350 MHz GPU Boost Rate 1770 MHz 1455 MHz 1815 MHz 1635 MHz Memory Capacity 24GB GDDR6 12GB HBM2 16GB GDDR6 11GB GDDR6 Memory Clock 14Gbps 1.7Gbps 14Gbps 14Gbps Memory Bus 384-bit 3072-bit 256-bit 352-bit Memory Bandwidth 672 GB/s 653 GB/s 448 GB/s 616 GB/s ROPs 96 96 64 88 L2 Cache 6MB 4.5MB ? 5.5MB TDP 280W 250W 265W 260W Transistor Count 18.6 billion 21.1 billion 13.6 billion 18.6 billion Die Size 754 mm 815 mm 545 mm 754 mm Price $2499 $2999 $2300 $1199

According to Nvidia, the Titan RTX is the Swiss Army Knife of graphics cards. On the AI side, the Titan RTX's 576 Tensor cores and 24GB of memory help improve training and inference for neural networks. Thanks to the presence of NVLink, AI researchers and Deep Learning developers can pair two of these cards together to work with large neural networks and data sets.

(Image credit: Nvidia)

Data scientists will be happy to know that Nvidia's Titan RTX also comes with support for Nvidia's RAPIDS platform. RAPIDS is a collection of open-source software libraries for data analytics and machine learning that help accelerate machine learning activities. On the content creation side, the Titan RTX's 72 RT cores give content creators real-time ray tracing and AI functionalities while the graphics card's 24GB of memory and 672 GB/s of bandwidth open the door for real-time 8K video editing.

The Titan RTX has a 280W TDP (thermal design power) rating and draws power from two 8-pin PCIe power connectors. Display outputs include three DisplayPort outputs, one HDMI port, and one USB Type-C port for Nvidia VirtualLink.

The Titan RTX graphics card carries an eye-watering $2,499 price tag and will be available later this month in the U.S. and Europe.AND WE'RE BACK!!!









Kansas City Season Of Hope

Chiefs postseason tickets go on sale this week The Kansas City Chiefs say based on the team's current record and standing within the AFC, the team is preparing for a potential home playoff game. Tickets for a potential AFC Wild Card or AFC Divisional home game will go on sale to the public on Friday at 10 a.m.

Debt Battle Update

Platte County won't have to pay Zona Rosa bonds just yet - Kansas City Business Journal Platte County isn't on the hook just yet for the Zona Rosa shopping center bonds. In September, bond trustee UMB Bank sent a letter to the Platte County Commission stating that the county was in default of its contractual obligations under the financing agreement for the Zona Rosa bonds.

Peak Price Celebration?!?!?

More than 20 Kansas City stations have gas less than $2 per gallon Gas prices in Kansas City have fallen 11.7 cents per gallon in the past week, according to GasBuddy. The average cost per gallon in the metro area on Sunday was $2.08 according to GasBuddy's daily survey of 752 stations in Kansas City.

End Of Greasy Spoon Era

Blue Springs Winstead's closes; plan for 'new locations' | The Kansas City Star Haddad Restaurants Group closed its Barry Road location in late November when it couldn't renew its lease. Now it has closed its Blue Springs location but plans to open a new location in 2019.

EPIC Survivor Story

Kirkwood mass shooting survivor pens book on survival, moving forward KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- A survivor of the Kirkwood City Council shooting is telling his story in a new book. Todd Smith was a journalist shot at the meeting back in 2008. Charles "Cookie" Thorton opened fire on the meeting and killed the mayor and city council members along with a police officer.

Hipster Calendar This Week

Champagne at the WWI Museum, an Ethiopian Shabbat and more: KC's food and drink events for December 3-9 Courtesy the National WWI Museum and Memorial Wednesday, December 5 Tonight at Lawrence Beer Company (826 Pennsylvania Avenue) is the debut of its first wine selection at a party that runs from 4 to 11 p.m. The wine, a Malbec, was made in collaboration with Ad Astra Selections under the eye of well-known winemaker Pablo Durigutti.

Alt. Holiday Showing

This Kansas City Puppet Theater's Classic, Starry December Show Is Not About Christmas An aviator falls to earth and is marooned with his downed biplane in the Sahara. In the desert, he meets a mysterious prince who's traveled to earth from a distant asteroid. So begins the alternative to traditional holiday-themed fare this year from The Mesner Puppet Theater.

Agenda Inside The KC Loop

Regular readers should know that we usually try to take it easy on Monday just like my old barber when I was a kid . . . Still, the news continues as we highlight some of these items worth a peek on the national & international front . . .Closer to home, this news is worth a glimpse for the afternoon:And this is thefor right now . . .WDAF owner Tribune Media reportedly will sell to Nexstar - Kansas City Business Journal WDAF Fox 4 is getting a new owner, according to a report. Nexstar Media Group has reached a deal to buy Tribune Media Co. in a transaction worth about $4.1 billion, Reuters reports. Word of the deal comes after Tribune walked away from an agreement to sell to Sinclair Broadcast Group Inc.

Tease deets from the biz journal and then more info for subscribers, still a noteworthy glimpse on the local media game right now . . .More Deets In This Roundup

Five charged in robbery conspiracy across metro KANSAS CITY, Mo. - UPDATE 6 p.m. 11/27/2018: Federal prosecutors have charged three of five men suspected in a series of armed robberies across the Kansas City, Missouri and Independence, Missouri area. Kansas City police said the group was arrested around 2:30 a.m.

Rock Chalk Police Action

KCK police working barricade situation inside hotel The Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department is working a barricade situation Monday morning. According to KCK Police Chief Terry Zeigler, officers are working at barricade near 39 th Street and Rainbow Avenue at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites at KU Medical Center. Police were originally called to the area on a wellness check around 3 a.m.

Legal Showdown

2010 Kansas City police shooting lawsuit goes to trial | The Kansas City Star The family of a 40-year-old Grandview man fatally shot by Kansas City police in 2010 has filed suit and the trial is set to begin Monday in U.S. District Court. Kenny Gurley was shot by a police officer outside an abandoned house.

Morning Shoot Out

One person shot in disturbance following car crash near East 67th and Woodland KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Kansas City, Missouri police are trying to determine what led up to a car crash then a shooting early Monday. It happened around 3:20 a.m. near East 67th and Woodland. According to police, the victim and three witnesses were inside of a home when they heard a loud crash.

Have You Seen This Car???

Police looking for white SUV in OP road rage incident KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Police are on the look-out the owner or driver of a white SUV wanted in a road rage incident in November along 69 Highway in Overland Park. Overland Park police said around 10 p.m. on Nov.

EPIC Kansas Weed Crackdown

Man sentenced after driving 471 pounds of marijuana to Kansas KANSAS CITY, KS (AP) - A Minnesota man was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for driving a load of 471 pounds of marijuana to Kansas. U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said 40-year-old Mark Anthony Berg, of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, was sentenced Monday for one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana.

Justice After Tragedy

Mother accused of driving car into Kansas River pleads not guilty LAWRENCE, KS (AP) - A 26-year-old Missouri woman accused of driving her car into the Kansas River has pleaded not guilty in her daughter's drowning. Scharron Dingledine, of Columbia, Missouri, pleaded not guilty Monday to first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder. The Lawrence Journal-World reports Dingledine is accused of driving into the river near downtown Lawrence on Aug.

Royal Run-In

Royals star outfielder Alex Gordon hits deer in KCK but walks away without injuries Kansas City Royals star outfielder Alex Gordon did not suffer any injuries when he struck a deer Sunday night along Interstate 635 and Kansas Highway 5. Kansas City Kansas Police Chief Terry Zeigler tweeted that an officer "was dispatched on an accident involving a deer (635 and K5) on 12/2/18 & the driver of the wrecked vehicle turned out to be Alex Gordon.

A look at top local crime links to start the week . . .Developing . . .With governments across the world taking steps to de-pollute the atmosphere, especially in developed cities, BMW has come up with a unique solution. The automaker says it can force its hybrid cars to switch to electric-only mode in cities. This is a fix that gives us hope that combustion engines, in some form, could survive for a little longer.

Well Played, BMW

Automakers are stuck in the three-way crossfire between conserving the environment, pleasing the governments, and satisfying the customers. Although the electric-revolution has begun, it will take quite some time for that to be completely implemented. No matter how fast the electric cars get, or how good they look, they can never replace the combustion engines. Sure, hybrids provided the best of both the worlds, but it is the jack of all trades and master of none. You dont get the optimum performance of a combustion engine, nor the efficiency of an all-electric car.

To get around this, the Bavarian automaker has come up with a solution. It said that it can force its hybrid cars to switch to an electric-only mode in heavily polluted inner-city areas, thus making the cars viable candidates to compete with pure battery-driven rivals as metro-cities all over the globe seek to create emissions-free zones. Klaus Froehlich, BMWs board member for development, told Reuters at the Los Angeles Auto Show, The car switches off the combustion engine automatically,

How Does It Work?

Thanks to BMW vehicles connectivity and navigation systems, its hybrid cars can be converted to automatically disable engines.

The fact that these cars come with a decent electric range makes the whole idea more plausible to implement. Froehlich also said that such a vehicle could be very important in regions such as Europe, where most drivers do not own multiple cars for different uses. For instance, the new X5 has an operating range of 50 miles in electric-only mode. If allowed to fix, it could help BMW in a big way. The automaker has plans to introduce 13 plug-in hybrid vehicles by 2025. To fulfill the EV lovers, the company plans to launch 12 of those in the same time-frame.

Our Take

However, if you look at it the other way, this is literally hacking into your car and controlling it for you. Not that we are crying foul, but just a thought to ponder over. And, this is perhaps what the future will be like. Its ironic to see two global automakers have polarising opinions about plug-in hybrids; for different reasons though. Froehlich said that customers have shied away from buying electric cars because of a lack of charging infrastructure, thus making hybrids a more attractive option for now. Chevrolet, on the other hand, will stop production of the Bolt by March 2019 because it does not highlight the advantage of either the combustion engine or the electric motors.

Some reports also suggest that the Volkswagen scandal has caused a global shakedown on combustion engines. Although this was coming in a few years anyway, the Volkswagen scandal just triggered it to happen much before its time. Cities like Stuttgart, Paris, and London have considered banning combustion engines altogether. To gain an upper hand, BMW is currently demonstrating the technology to local authorities in its home country before the ban takes place in full force. Whats funny is that while other automakers are making such moves, Volkswagens own company, Audi, is announcing new variants of diesel engines in its yet-to-be-launched cars like the Q4!

What are your thoughts on this fix by BMW? Share them with us in the comments section below.

Further reading

Read our full review on the 2019 BMW X5 xDrive45e iPerformance.

Read our full review on the 2017 BMW 330e iPerformance.

Source: ReutersHyundai does not have a pickup in its lineup now, but thats going to change soon now that a company executive has confirmed that a production model is currently under development. No timetable has been set in place, but the current schedule estimates that it could launch sometime in 2020. At the moment, the design of the production model is said to be finished, and the process of putting it into production is currently underway.

We already know what Hyundais capable of when it comes to building a pickup. It showed what was possible back in 2015 when it introduced the Santa Cruz Concept at the North American International Auto Show. That concept was not only well received by the public; it started a discussion on when Hyundai should build it. It took a few years  four, to be exact  but it seems that the Hyundai pickup that weve all been waiting for is now being prepared for production.

Hyundais own chief design officer, Luc Donckerwolke, made that clear in a conversation with Autocar. According to Donckerwolke, the yet-to-be-named pickup is currently under development and that it will launch as soon as possible. From my side [design], it is finished, the process to put it into production is now underway.

Thats the good news, though. If it werent for the companys focus on electrification, the production model would have already been here. Im not complaining, though. Im happy that were finally going to see a production version of the Santa Cruz Concept.

The concept had all the makings of a contender in what has become a super competitive segment in the auto industry.

The Santa Cruz Concept was powered by a 2.0-liter turbo diesel powertrain that produced 190 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque, while achieving fuel economy in the high 30 mpg range. Hyundai didnt mention how much bed space it had or how big its towing capacity is, but those questions are now going to be answered sooner than later.

Speaking of unanswered questions, theres no confirmation, either, on where Hyundai plans to enter its first pickup. The more possible scenario would be to for the Korean automaker to target the American compact market thats currently dominated by models like the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Tacoma. This market would also cater to a broader global market appeal, something that Hyundai could tap into to increase exposure of the new model.

The other possible scenario is for the pickup to compete in the full-size pickup segment where it will line up against successful models like the Ram 1500 and the Chevrolet Silverado.

That segment also happens to include the Ford F-150, considered as the top-selling model in the U.S.

Obviously, Hyundai still needs to answer a lot of questions about the pickup before we know more details about its future. Thats fair. Rome wasnt built in a day, so were not expecting Hyundai to rush production of its first pickup, either. The important thing is to have all the details planned out so that when production of the model gets underway, were not going to find any surprises along the way.

Speaking of surprises, it appears that Hyundai isnt the only automaker thats dipping its toes into the pickup segment. Sister company Kia is also getting into the market, so says its new chief operating officer in the U.S., Brit Michael Cole. According to Cole, a Kia pickup is something we could look at. He did temper expectations, adding that the pickup doesnt take priority over building its entire SUV range. Thats where Kias focus is at the moment, specifically on the launch of the production version of the Telluride SUV, which is set to take place sometime next year.

Regardless of how their respective timetables, it appears that the pickup segment is about to get more crowded than it already is. Hyundai and Kia are throwing their names into the hat, and once those models are launched, we could be looking at a segment thats going to become more competitive than it already is.

Further reading

Read our full review on the 2015 Hyundai Santa Cruz Crossover Truck Concept.

Source: AutocarAfrica has the money to meet the estimated $300 billion annual cost required for the attainment of the 10-year plan under the African Unions Agenda 2063, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), has said.

Addressing guests at the World Youth Forum 2018 organised recently in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, Prof. Oramah noted that Africas foreign exchange reserves currently stood at almost $500 billion and had consistently been above that figure until the commodity price shock in 2015/2016.

The continent also had about $800 billion under management by pension funds in the 12 African countries where the market was most developed, with that figure forecast to rise to $1.1 trillion by 2020, continued the President. In addition, Africa received $63 billion in migrant remittances annually, showing that the continent had more than $1 trillion that it could use to finance the $300 billion of investment that was required.

He said that the challenge was that the reserves were sitting outside Africa, earning little or nothing, and that when African countries tried to borrow the same money, they ended up paying very high rates.

Prof. Oramah said that the continent needed to look inward, asking, Why cant we do something about it? Why cant we recycle some of our money? Why cant we do what some of the Asian countries have done?.

He announced that Afreximbank had attempted to answer those questions by giving itself an objective to raise $10 billion from Africa in five years to support its business. It had been surprised to have raised $5.7 billion in the first year.

The President said that Africa had to find a way to more effectively use the migrant revenue that was coming into the continent and highlighted the need to democratize investment opportunities in Africa. People should not look to governments alone to make investments but should bring in private money, he added.

President Oramah participated in a panel on Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want and was joined by Sameh Shoukry, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt; Arnauld Alndji, Minister of Equal Opportunities, Youth and Gabonese Abroad of Gabon; Evelyne Butoyi, Minister of Youth, Posts and Information Technologies of Burundi; and Gunter Nooke, Personal Representative of the German Chancellor for Africa.

The session was attended by President Abdel Fattah El Sissi of Egypt who delivered his final comments at the Forum after the session.

Shoukry participates in the panel discussion Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want at the World Youth Forum

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Counselor Ahmed Hafez, stated that Minister Shoukrys participation in the meeting takes place in light of Egypts keenness on the advancement of Africa and achieving comprehensive development in the continent.

Shoukry explained that the idea of Agenda 2063 was initially launched when Heads of State and Government pledged during the AU Summit in 2013 to promote joint efforts in order to develop the African continent and achieve concrete progress in key areas related to inclusive development.

Hafez added that the Foreign Minister affirmed Egypts full commitment to supporting the implementation of the 2063 Agenda in the various fields, and particularly the related leading infrastructure projects aimed at achieving African integration.

In this context, he noted that the 2063 Agenda is a Pan-African ambitious and time-bound vision aimed at achieving a genuine breakthrough for the continent, explaining that Egypt spares no effort in order to implement the Agenda as the Egyptian President has launched Egypts Vision 2030 to achieve social justice for the Egyptian citizens, with the formation of a national committee to implement the 2063 Sustainable Development Agenda, headed by the Prime Minister.

Meanwhile, Egypt has already started the process of incorporating the objectives and projects of the African Agenda 2063 into its national strategy as the Ministry of Planning and Administrative Reform currently prepares an executive plan to integrate the objectives and programs of the Agenda, in cooperation with all the relevant ministries in this regard.

Moreover, the Spokesperson noted that, during the session, Shoukry tackled the social dimension of the 2063 Agenda, as he pointed out that the issues of empowering women and youth are considered the top priorities of the agenda, underscoring the need to empower youth, being the engine of the desired renaissance, especially as they constitute the majority of the continent's population.

Finally, Shoukry reviewed Egypts regional role in implementing the 2063 Agenda, while noting the countrys outstanding efforts in joint African action through its active participation in the pilot projects of the Development Agenda under its current membership in the African Union Troika. He also highlighted the serious national efforts in support for the agricultural and industrial sectors in increasing the employment rates in the continent through cooperation with the concerned international institutions and partners of Africa with a view to eradicating poverty.

In this regard, he praised the joint African steps taken to establish continental financial institutions such as the African Investment Bank, the African Stock Exchange, the African Monetary Fund, and the African Central Bank.Dear Savvy Senior,

What can you tell me about seasonal affective disorder? I have always hated wintertime, but since I retired and am home a lot more, the dark and cold winter months make me depressed and lethargic.

Fighting the Blues

Dear Fighting,

If you get depressed in the winter but feel better in spring and summer, you may indeed have seasonal affective disorder (or SAD), a wintertime depression that affects roughly 6 percent of Americans.

In most cases, SAD is related to the loss of sunlight in the winter months. Reduced sunlight can upset natural sleep-wake cycles and other cir...Special Prosecutor Robert Muellers 18 month long investigation has resulted in more than 100 criminal counts against 33 people and three companies, one conviction and several guilty pleas. These charges involve the most serious forms of criminal behavior on the part of Russian operatives as well as President Trumps advisors and past employees: perjury, tax and banking fraud, obstruction of justice, secretly working as an agent of a foreign power, conspiracy to launder money, campaign finance violations, tax evasion, financial fraud, identity theft and conspiracy to commit an offense a...Mr. Van Antwerps recent opinion letter asks us to believe that Trump never spews hatred and vilification of minorities, to just ignore and forget the numerous, well recorded quotes/tweets where he called Mexicans rapists, Muslims terrorists, and many predominately black countries holes. However, he asserts, it was all just exaggerations by the bastions of professional journalism he scornfully labels the press. Seriously? How can we take anything presented by Van Antwerp as fact after this ridiculous assertion? Trumps evils are rampant, repeated and there for...There's this relationship I want to talk to you about. You know the kind. On one hand, you get a little giddy with excitement, and on the other it's that sweaty-palmed, "I think I'm going to throw up," kind of feeling. Yes, my husband, Clyde Carter, knows all about this relationship. He even made the introductions and continues to encourage it. The relationship I'm talking about is my relationship is with Looking Glass Rock.

We've all seen it from a distance as we've driven the parkway. Maybe we've pulled off at an overlook to admire the giant granite pluton and its 400-foot walls reflect...Meet Augustin Ndikuriyo, the young Burundian entrepreneur, Managing Director of Augustine Tours , a Rwanda based tour company which recently opened a new office in Germany, Augustine Tours-Europe.



(TRAVPR.COM) GERMANY - November 30th, 2018 - Meet Augustin Ndikuriyo, the young Burundian entrepreneur, Managing Director of Augustine Tours , a Rwanda based tour company which recently opened a new office in Germany, Augustine Tours-Europe.

Who is Augustin Ndikuriyo and what is the idea behind your business?

I am the managing director of Augustine Tours a travel company founded in with an aim to provide Private Tours & Corporate Travels to East Africa. Inspired by St. Augustine The World is a book and those who dont travel only ready one page, I believe that travel can be a great channel for both educational, cultural & business exchange. Whether we travel for business or vacation, there is always a sense of socio-economic or cultural exchange in one way or another. And this is where a travel company like ours plays a big role.

1. You are offering tours to East Africa, what sets your company apart from others?

Augustine Tours thrives to offer a personalized customer experience. Our tour programs are flexible and can always be adjusted according to the needs of the clients. Beside a local knowledge that we happily share, our personnel speak different languages English, French and German which is a plus for business connections. We have already served more than 30 countries, UK, Germany, USA, Australia, South Africa and South Korea being the main contributors to the company economic growth.

2. Is offering Tours and Corporate Travels an easy mix?

Corporate Travel Management isnt a side work. We have successfully worked with important international private & government companies, US Marines for Europe/Africa, European Union missions, Nokia Solutions and Networks. The company has established itself as a two-way door to Leisure & Business Travelers in offering an individual customer experience, to meet ever-changing travel needs.

3. Your website features a Rwanda Green Tour Package, what is the reason behind it?

The all-inclusive 9-day Rwanda green tour package is not just a classic tour package per se but another way of learning how Rwanda has become one of the cleanest countries in Africa. The aim is to prove we can reduce the human impact on the environment.

The tour is part of our responsible tourism program benefiting both the local community and the clean environment. Wherever possible, using a vehicle will be avoided while staying in eco-lodges highly encouraged.

4. Finally, where do you see yourself in 5 years?

It is always not easy to see a picture of yourself in the future. But I have always been a strong believer in hard work and dedication. In five years, I wish to be able to help people read more pages of this book we live in, Africa being a 54-page chapter of the book.

###Contact:

Luana Wheatley, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism + 1 340 774-8784

Keisha Nelson, Marketplace Excellence + 1 201 861-2056

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS RELAUNCHES "REAL NICE" CAMPAIGN

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS (December 3, 2018) - As travelers look to escape from the cold this winter, the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism is supporting the Territory's private sector partners with the relaunch of a $3 million marketing campaign to stimulate travel to St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas in the coming months.

The highly anticipated 'Real Nice' advertising campaign is back in full flight, after being on hiatus during Fiscal Year 2017-2018 due the devastating impact of Hurricanes Irma and Maria.

Leading up to the holiday season, two-thirds of the $3 million budget is being spent on cable television ads, with spots already in rotation across eight networks, including CNN, Discovery Channel, Food Network, Fox News, Hallmark Channel, Investigation Discovery, TLC, and Travel Channel.

As travelers begin to plan their winter getaways, the strategic goal behind the current efforts is to generate top-of-mind awareness for the Territory among active travelers seeking an authentic Caribbean experience.

The 'Real Nice' production, which consisted of close to 100 percent on-island talent and crew , gives consumers a look inside the Virgin Islands lifestyle and how it can transform a vacation into a distinct cultural experience.

In addition to the $2 million television spend, $500,000 will be allocated to digital advertising and social media; a $350,000 social media program has been launched to promote accommodations accepting vacationers this season; and the remaining resources will be directed to cooperative marketing and print advertising in various market segments.

The marketing campaign is expected to deliver more than 150 million paid media impressions and increase traffic to VisitUSVI.com . The Department of Tourism will heighten the Territory's visibility on television and social media channels like Facebook and Instagram as well as print media throughout the campaign, with a focus on adventure travel, history, culinary tourism and the marine industry.

The campaign was developed through a partnership between the Department's advertising agency of record, J. Walter Thompson Atlanta (JWT), and local Virgin Islands company FilmVI.

Building upon almost $100 million in public relations value earned during FY 2017-2018, the Department will continue to strengthen its media relations activities and will host a number of writers for upcoming events, including this weekend's St. Croix Triathlon and next year's Agrifest in February. Plans are also in the works to host journalists for a Territory-wide voluntourism trip, as well as "girls getaway" and social influencer trips in the new year.Treehugger and our third-party partners use cookies and process personal data like unique identifiers based on your consent to store and/or access information on a device, display personalized ads and for content measurement, audience insight, and product development. To change or withdraw your consent choices for Treehugger.com, including your right to object where legitimate interest is used, click below. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page. These choices will be signaled globally to our partners and will not affect browsing data. List of Partners (vendors)After a few big players entered the ring, the environment was spared some 1.5 billion plastic shopping bags in under 100 days.

This is remarkable, and a model for other countries around the world. After two of Australia's largest supermarket chains decided to nix single-use plastic shopping bags, the country saw an 80 percent drop in plastic bag consumption across the nation in the first three months of the ban, reports the Australian Associated Press (AAP).

According to The Guardian, Woolworths began prohibiting all single-use plastic bags from all stores nationwide on June 20th; their competitor, Coles, did the same on June 30th. It has been estimated that each chain was responsible for around 3.2 billion bags every year.

AAP says that the two supermarket giants stopped offering single-use plastic bags after years of campaigning by environmental groups and consumers. The press agency notes that while not all shoppers were on board (because, of course, heaven forbid the inconvenience of sparing the planet from being choked by plastic) (sorry) (not sorry), many other shoppers were in strong support of the initiative.

hhach/Public Domain

According to the National Retail Association (NRA), after just three months there was an 80 percent drop in the consumption of plastic bags across the country.

Indeed, some retailers are reporting reduction rates as high as 90%, said David Stout, Manager of Industry Policy, Research & Projects at the NRA.

Stout explained that the widespread prohibition also opened the door for smaller retailers to do the same, since the risk of losing customers over it has now been minimized. Noting that, Obviously the best thing for smaller businesses is to either engineer out the bag completely or have the customer pay ... they should be able to consider that strategy without fear of backlash.

Stout's words feel like they are coming from some kind of alternate universe, given the lobbying by industry associations in the U.S. to ban plastic bag bans. Stout goes on to say that he's hopeful that the big retailers continue to push for a more sustainable industry and to explore banning other single-use items.

Everyone delivering things in a package need to take responsibility for what they deliver it in, he said. I think theres going to be a lot more pressure on all of us to be more aware of what we consume.

Given the success seen in Australia, may the rest of us follow suit.Robert Swan Mueller III, the special prosecutor, comes right out of central casting in his role of righteous lawman deputized to rid Dodge of the no-good hombre outlaw they call Trump.

Mueller takes on the role with a John Wayne swagger, a Dick Tracy square jaw and an eminence grise head of hair. Hes a Princeton alumnus, a decorated Marine who saw combat in Vietnam, and a Republican, its said  but a domesticated one, mind you, not the more familiar, feral variety we keep hearing about from CNN and the New York Times.

Alas, the central casting special prosecutor package also comes with a checkered law enforcement history and with roots deep in the muck of the Swamp bureaucracy.

Let us not forget that Mueller was the vaunted G-Man who bungled one of the biggest cases in FBI history: the probe of the post 9/11 anthrax mail attacks. The attacks killed five and infected 17, including victims nearby.

Mueller, then FBI director, went at the case chin thrust outward pugnaciously, just as he has in his quest to tie Trump to Russian shenanigans in the Boris Badenov/Natasha Fatale case. But in the anthrax matter, Mueller proved to be more of a Fearless Fosdick than a Dick Tracy.

In that probe, he was teamed up with another familiar name, James Comey, then a top-level Justice Dept. bureaucrat. Based on little more than vague suspicion and the dubious sniffing of a couple of dogs, Mueller locked on a military scientist named Steven Hatfill as his one and only suspect and refused to consider any alternatives.

Leak-blessed media outlets, meanwhile, led a torches-and-pitchforks mob, hollering for Hatfill to be treated to a necktie party.

In an Inspector Clouseau comedic interlude, Mueller ordered a pond near Hatfills residence drained bone dry, at a cost of $250,000. Nothing. After months of taunting and harassing the hapless Hatfill with media leaks, still nothing.

But nevertheless Comey pronounced it absolutely certain his buddy Mueller had the real culprit by the scruff of the neck.

Muellers time-wasting, tax-dollar-squandering, fumbling investigation went on and on. And on and on and on.

Mueller finally, belatedly relented, conceding hed been in hot pursuit of the wrong guy all along. The FBI settled a Hatfill lawsuit by paying him $5.8 million of damages out of the public till. Mueller, however, remained un-humbled. I do not apologize for any aspect of the investigation, he declared, his trademark square jaw thrust forward in defiance.

Ultimately, another, entirely unrelated military scientist, Bruce E. Ivins, was fastened upon on as the new anthrax-attack suspect. Receiving word he was the next in line to be hounded mercilessly by an all-powerful Justice Dept., Ivins committed suicide in 2008. Hey, close enough for government work! The Feds declared the deceased suspect, posthumously, the real, official anthrax culprit.

Cue TVs old Law and Order clang-clang music theme. Case closed.

The Swamp is an incestuous place, and Mueller dwells at the very epicenter of its incestuous relationships. And this fact is no less true for being pointed out by Roger Stone, Trump pal, conspiracy theorist, political agent provocateur, Machiavellian boulevardier, and possibly Muellers next prosecutorial victim.

Muellers biggest take-down so far in his pursuit of Trump has been Paul Manafort, sleazy lobbyist for foreign clients, briefly Trumps campaign chairman.

Eyebrow-lifting factoid: Manafort also had a business relationship with the lobbying firm of John Podesta, Hillary Clintons campaign chairman. (Incestuous Swamp relationships, Exhibit A.) Despite that connection, however, Podesta appears in no danger of being inconvenienced by Muellers team of pit-bull prosecutors, assembled mostly from Hillary backers and vocal Trump haters.

Mueller squeezed guilty pleas out of Manafort to assorted money-laundering and tax-evasion counts having nothing at all to do with Russia collusion. Reportedly, the case against Manafort was largely one taken down off a dusty Justice Dept. shelf.

Manaforts flagrant offenses had been sleuthed out long ago, it seems, but not pursued. And guess who was FBI director then? Bingo, Robert Mueller! (Incestuous Swamp relationships, Exhibit B.)

More incestuous Swamp relationships: Comey, fired as FBI director by Trump, worked under Mueller back when the two were upper-level bureaucrats in the Justice Dept. Also working under Mueller back in the day: current Deputy Attorney Gen. Rob Rosenstein.

Let us try to follow the tangled, Byzantine threads here:

* Comey triggered calls for a special prosecutor to be named to gumshoe Trump. Comey did so through leaks he admits he made in violation of policy and possibly law as well.

* Rosenstein, filling in for then-Attorney Gen. Jeff Sessions, who had recused himself from Trump-related investigative matters, appointed his old colleague Mueller as special prosecutor.

* Rosenstein, meanwhile, retains official supervision over Muellers probe, even though Rosenstein himself is clearly a fact witness in the very probe over which he exercises official oversight. When it comes to the term conflict of interest, the Swamp seems anything but fastidious.

Regarding this latter point, Rosenstein wrote a legal memo recommending that Trump fire Comey over Comeys press-conference-announced decision not to prosecute Hillary Clinton in her email scandal. As Rosenstein pointed out, the showboating Comey lacked any legal authority to make that decision. Only the Attorney General possessed the authority to do so.

Rosenstein is further a fact witness in the very case he oversees because he submitted to Federal Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) courts dubious requests for warrants to eavesdrop on the Trump campaign.

The FISA warrants  possibly fraudulently obtained  sought to establish that Trump was in cahoots with Kremlin agents to undermine Hillary Clintons bid for the presidency. But, irony or ironies, the warrants were based largely, maybe entirely, on unverified dirt paid for by the Clinton campaign and DNC and provided by  ta-dah!  KREMLIN sources.

These undisputed facts lead inexorably to one inescapable conclusion: Mueller is pursuing far-fetched suspicions of a Trump conspiracy to collude with Russians while turning a blind eye to Clintons known and undisputed collusion with them.

All of which means Robert Swan Mueller III continues, in effect, to pursue a convenience store candy bar shop-lifting case while ignoring a multimillion-dollar Brinks heist right next door.

Yes, definitely, more a Fearless Fosdick than a Dick Tracy.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Bathinda, December 3

A city-based doctor attended the world conference of bioethics, medical ethics and health law, which was held at Jerusalem in Israel recently. The meet was held under the aegis of UNESCO Bioethics Chair.

Dr Sanjay Bedi, professor of pathology, represented Adesh University Bioethics Unit of UNESCO that was headed by vice-chancellor GPI Singh. Dr Sanjay Bedi presented a talk at the conference on use of Webinar Technology for Online Training of Bioethics at Global Level.

The conference was attended by over 800 delegates from all over the world, especially Israel and India, under the chairmanship of Dr Ammon Carmi of Israel and Dr Russel Dsouza from Australia. The conference deliberated on various issues of bioethics, which are causing problems in the 21st century. Bioethics is a relatively new science, which is gradually gaining importance to tackle the emerging problems under the mismatch of behaviour and allocation of resources to various people at various socio-economic strata along with environmental degradation.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Bathinda, December 2

The police have registered a first information report against a Barnala-based woman for allegedly duping a man of Rs 7.20 lakh on the pretext of sending him abroad.

The accused has been identified as Paramjit Kaur, a resident of Jaimal Singh Wala village in Barnala. The police have registered a case under Sections 420 and 406 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The complainant in the case, Bhola Singh, a resident of Alike village in Bathinda district, has stated that the accused had taken Rs 7.20 lakh from him in September 2009 to send him to Italy.

The complainant further stated that the accused had given him a fake visa and when he reached the airport, he discovered that he had been duped.

He tried to contact the accused many times but he found that the latter had fled to Italy.

According to police sources, the investigation in the case was handed over to the economic offences wing. The police have also taken legal advice in the case. No arrest has been made so far.

Talking to Bathinda Tribune, Darshan Singh, Station House Officer (SHO), Phul, said, On the complaint lodged by Bhola Singh, we have registered an FIR against Paramjit Kaur under Section 420 and 406 of the IPC. The complainant has alleged that the accused had deceived him on the pretext of sending him abroad and duped him of Rs 7.20 lakh. The accused had taken money in three instalments on different occasions. We are investigating the matter and taking appropriate action.editorial@tribune.com

Vijay C Roy

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 3

Now, fruits, vegetables and other commodities, particularly basmati meant for exports, may not leave Indian ports undetected for quality and consistency and face rejection, as startups based in Haryana and Maharashtra have developed a software that would verify the quality and provide details such as moisture content.

The software will be handy for exporters who procure commodities from across the country and often face rejection by overseas buyers because they are unable to check product consistency of the consignments.

Now they can find out details through a mobile app armed with artificial intelligence. It is an image-based technology to accurately assess the quality of the commodity, Gurgaon-based Intello Labs Head (sales & business development) Devendra Chandani told The Tribune.

Currently, the company is working with various stakeholders in Haryana, Delhi, Maharashtra, Andhra, Karnataka and Telangana.

The technology adds value to stakeholders such as food processors, exporters, importers, food retailers, traders, warehousing companies and surveyor agencies as it shares quality results on a realtime basis.

Maharashtra-based firm Agricx has also developed an app that digitalises the procurement process. It detects all physical quality parameters, including shape, size, count, defects just by using mobile device. Currently, the company is working on basmati, potato, tur dal and turmeric.

Our technology is software as a service (SAAS)-based and can be run across the country. For the northern region, we are looking forward to working with farmer producer organisations. We plan to cater to all the crops in details, said Agricxs RSM Ankush Wanjari.editorial@tribune.com

NTPC has generated 5 trillion units of electricity as on November 30 from its power stations spread across the country since inception. The power major with an installed capacity of 52,946 MW has 20 coal-based, 7 gas-based, 11 solar PV, 1 hydro, 1 small hydro, 1 wind and 9 subsidiaries/joint venture power stations.

Ojas Hospital celebrates first anniversary

Ojas Super Speciality Hospital, Panchkula, recently celebrated its first anniversary. Ojas Super Speciality Hospital is a dream project of a group of doctors of Panchkula and Chandigarh who were pioneers in their fields and had an experience of 15-30 years in their respective specialities.

Sushma Group showcases its projects in Bathinda

Sushma Group recently held a press conference in Bathinda to showcase their various projects in the tricity. The group apprised the citizens about the current status of the real estate sector and the benefits of investing with Sushma Group.

NHPC organises free medical camp in Ballabhgarh

Under its corporate social responsibility, NHPC, in association with Civil Hospital's Urban PHC, Hari-Vihar - Department of Health, Faridabad, and Sarvodya Hospital and Centre for Sight, Faridabad, organised a free medical camp at Madhu-Vaatika Hari Vihar, Ballabhgarh, on November 27. The camp was inaugurated by Dr Asruddin, civil surgeon, BK Hospital, Faridabad, and Dr Kamla Fartyal, CGM (Medical Services), NHPC.

Northern Railway honours 11 employees with Safety Award

In keeping with the practice of honouring employees whose alertness and prompt action have resulted in averting a possible accident, Northern Railway has honored 11 employees with Safety Awards at a ceremony held at Northern Railway headquarters, Baroda House, New Delhi, recently. The awards were presented by TP Singh, General Manager, Northern Railway.

NCC celebrates 70th anniversary

National Cadet Corps (NCC) celebrated its 70th raising day on November 25. The function was marked by paying homage at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate, on November 24 to the martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice of their lives.

LIC gives valuation surplus of Rs 2,430 crore to Union govt

VK Sharma, Chairman, LIC of India, presented a cheque of Rs 2,430.19 crore to Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley as the Government of India's share of the surplus arising out of the LIC's Actuarial Valuation as on March 31, 2018. During the fiscal 2017-18, LIC generated a total valuation surplus of Rs 48,444.82 crore, registering a growth of 10.1% over the previous year.

Haier brings new era of smart home solutions

Haier has opened a first-of-its-kind experience store in Lajpat Nagar, New Delhi. The company has conceptualised this store focusing on the four most important physical spaces in the home - smart living room, smart kitchen, smart bathroom and smart bedroom. This store showcases Haier's futuristic products and intelligent devices all under one roof.

MT Educare launches revolutionary book

MT Educare has launched a revolutionary book that uses digital technologies to combine the best aspects of a textbook, work book and classroom teaching into an innovative learning experience. Mahesh Shetty, founder of MT Educare, said, "This is the first time that a 'traditional' notebook has been morphed into a multi-media learning book combining textbook, notebook, classroom learning and digital technologies to create a wholesome experience for students."

LG unveils PuriCare range of water purifiers in India

LG Electronics India has introduced PuriCare range of water purifiers in India, featuring stainless steel storage tank that provides purest form of drinking water. The advanced range of water purifiers that come in seven variants is equipped with innovative hygiene-enhancing features such as the Dual Protection Stainless Steel Tank and Digital Sterilizing Care that ultimately yield safe and clean drinking water.

Patel Hospital showcases da Vinci Roving Robot

As part of a unique roadshow and the region's first initiative, the da Vinci Roving Robot was showcased to surgeons and administrators at Patel Hospital, Jalandhar, on November 25-26, in Ludhiana (November 21), Moga (November 23) and Ambala (November 24). It was available to touch, feel, visualise and move its arms and listen to an experienced robotic surgeon spell out the myriad benefits that a da Vinci robot offers - surgery that is more effective, less invasive and easier on patients and their families.

Chitkara University inks MoU with Infarsight, USA

Chitkara University has signed an MoU with Infarsight, LLC (headquartered in Princeton, NJ, USA) to introduce a transformative partnership model to the Indian education system. The university and Infarsight are pioneering a new University Delivery Model that aims to establish a R&D and software engineering centre, (Infarsight- Center of Innovation) on the university campus.

DeLonghi Group partners with Orient Electric Co

Italian small appliances maker De'Longhi Group has announced a strategic partnership with Orient Electric Ltd., a part of the diversified CK Birla Group, to bring its international premium range of small appliances to the Indian market. Orient Electric will have exclusive rights to market and sell the marquee brands of DeLonghi, Kenwood and Braun.

294 awarded degrees at Eternal varsity convocation

Eternal University, Baru Sahib, organised its sixth convocation on November 24. The function was presided over by Himachal Pradesh Governor Acharya Devvrat. Chancellor of the university Baba Iqbal Singh and Padma Bhushan Khem Singh Gill were also present on the occasion. As many as 294 degrees were awarded.

HDFC Bank launches new mobile banking application

HDFC Bank has unveiled its next-gen mobile banking app that offers users effortless access to their bank account on the go. The app allows customers to bank the way they live.

Bajaj Auto drives in Pulsar 150 Neo Collection

Bajaj Auto has launched its all new Pulsar 150 Neon collection. It has been launched at an introductory price of Rs 64,998 (ex- showroom Delhi) and is available across all Bajaj Auto dealerships in the country. "Bike's fresh new looks, outstanding road presence and proven performance is set to be the first choice for any customer willing to move beyond a 100/110 cc bike," said Eric Vas, President (Motorcycles), BAL.

Chandigarh chapter of Assochams GEM formed

Surinder Bagha has been appointed as chairman of the Chandigarh chapter of Assocham's Green and Eco-friendly Movement (GEM). Dinesh Bhagat has been designated as co-chairman and Aarti Mehta as secretary. Assocham's Regional Director Ravinder Chandla has been appointed treasurer apart from 12 others as council members.

Ananda Dairy ties up with SBI for cattle funding

Ananda Dairy has entered into an MoU with SBI for cattle funding. SBI will offer loans for financing dairy units, construction of sheds, purchase of milch animals, milking machines and chaff cutters. "The bank will also provide loans to dairy societies for modernisation and creation of infrastructure." said RS Dixit, CMD, Ananda Dairy, during a session at Agro Tech 2018 being organised by CII in Chandigarh.

Selfie-centric Realme U1 smartphone unveiled

Realme has launched Realme U1 as the most powerful selfie-centric phone powered by the AI master MediaTeK Helio P70 processor globally. The device comes in two variants - 3 GB RAM + 32 GB ROM at Rs 11,999 and 4GB RAM + 64GB ROM at Rs 14,499. These will be exclusively available on Amazon.in from December 5.

Nikon India launches mirrorless cameras

Nikon India showcased its latest full-frame mirrorless cameras - Nikon Z7 and Z6 at an event held in Chandigarh recently. The company also showcased three new NIKKOR Z lenses featuring a new larger-diameter mount, and the Mount Adapter FTZ.editorial@tribune.com

New Delhi, December 3

Anglo-Dutch FMCG giant Unilever today said it will acquire health food portfolio, including popular brands Horlicks and Boost, from GlaxoSmithKline in India and over 20 other markets for 3.1 billion pounds (about Rs 27,750 crore).

As part of the deal, Unilevers Indian arm, Hindustan Unilever (HUL) will acquire GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Ltd via an all-equity merger, valuing the total business of the latter at Rs 31,700 crore.

GSK CH India is the market leader in the health food drinks (HFD) category, with popular brands such as Horlicks and Boost.

Announcing the deal that also covers Bangladesh and 20 other predominantly Asian markets, Unilever said the transaction consists of an all-equity merger of HUL with the publicly-listed GSK Consumer Healthcare India and acquisition of 82% stake in GSK Bangladesh Ltd.  PTI

The Rs 31,700-crore transactioneditorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 2

The five F Bar firing suspects, who were held on November 30, were on the run for 10 days and stayed in at least six cities to evade arrest.

Three gunshots were fired following a clash between two groups during a birthday party of BJP MP Kirron Khers close associate Sahdev Salaria at a night club, F Bar, in Sector 26, on November 20. The suspects, Chetan Munjal, Rajesh Paswan, Rinku, Rohit, alias Rimy, and Arjun Thakur, son of a head constable, were booked in a case of attempt to murder and Arms Act registered at the Sector 26 police station.

DSP (Crime) Pawan Kumar said, While on the run, they stayed at Panipat, Yamunanagar, Patiala, Hoshiarpur, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, the DSP said.

The police said the suspects had stayed at a friends place in Panipat and Delhi.

They are also probing who all assisted the suspects in escaping from one city to another.

On the day of the incident, an altercation took place between the two groups, which turned ugly. According to a complaint lodged with the police, the suspects, Rinku and Chetan, pulled out pistols and allegedly fired gunshots. Two pistols have been recovered by the police.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Mohali, December 2

The police have arrested four members of a gang of robbers that was mainly targeting migrants and looting their belongings by threatening or thrashing them.

The police have recovered 20 gm of heroin, a .315 bore pistol with three live cartridges, swords, iron rods, an axe and 500 banned capsules from the possession of the four robbers  Suhail Khan of Mirzapur village in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, Sunil Kumar of Pabhat village, Deepak Kumar of Rampur village in Uttar Pradesh and Sunil Giri of Sultan village in Uttar Pradesh.

Inspector Tarlochan Singh, SHO of the Sohana police station, said the gang was active in Mohali of late. They were targeting mainly labourers, working in under-construction buildings at Aerocity in Mohali. The armed robbers used to beat them up, threaten them and loot their belongings, including mobile phones, and money, said Tarlochan Singh.

He said with their arrest, the police had solved at least nine such incidents in Aerocity and Sohana, 15 incidents in Kharar, two incidents in Balongi and five incidents in Zirakpur.

They have confessed to their involvement in 31 incidents so far. We have recovered two motorcycles, a gold ring, 63 mobile phones, a laptop, an LCD and three gas cylinders from their possession, said the police.

A case under Sections 399 and 402 of the IPC, Sections 25, 54 and 59 of the Arms Act and Sections 21, 22, 61 and 85 of the NDPS Act has been registered against the four.

The big haul

With their arrest, the police claim to have solved at least nine such incidents in Aerocity and Sohana, 15 incidents in Kharar, two incidents in Balongi and five incidents in Zirakpur. They have confessed to their involvement in 31 incidents so far. We have recovered two motorcycles, a gold ring, 63 mobile phones, a laptop, an LCD and three gas cylinders from their possession, said the police.Lt-Gen DS Hooda (Retd)

Lt-Gen DS Hooda (Retd)

Former Northern army Command Chief

In April 2018, in the case of Union of India Vs Prithwi Singh, concerning the grant of disability pension to a soldier, the Supreme Court observed, The couldn't-care-less and insouciant attitude of the Union of India with regard to litigation, particularly in the Supreme Court, has gone a little too far as this case illustrates....it is adding to the burden of this Court and collaterally harming other litigants by delaying hearing of their cases through the sheer volume of numbers this is an extremely unfortunate situation of unnecessary and avoidable burdening of this Court through frivolous litigation which calls for yet another reminder through the imposition of costs on the Union of India while dismissing this appeal.

Unequal battle

The Supreme Courts observations are reflective of the problems plaguing the very emotive issue of disabled soldiers fighting cases in the courts for their pensionary dues. It is both an unequal battle and an unjustified one. The government had been routinely challenging Armed Forces Tribunal rulings, forcing veteran soldiers and widows to appear in the Supreme Court, where they faced a battery of government lawyers, whose costs possibly exceed the payout for the disability grant.

The Supreme Courts comments in the Prithwi Singh case are telling, To make matters worse, in this appeal, the Union of India has engaged 10 lawyers, including an Additional Solicitor-General and a Senior Advocate In other words, the Union of India has created a huge financial liability by engaging so many lawyers for an appeal whose fate can be easily imagined on the basis of existing orders of dismissal in similar cases.

More importantly, the volume of appeals filed in the Supreme Court has created the impression of an insensitive government disrespecting the sacrifice of soldiers who suffered medical disabilities while serving the country in the most challenging of conditions and the harshest of terrains. There is an unseemly squabble on whether the disability has been caused by service conditions, and certifications of commanders on the ground are disregarded by financial advisors and pension sanctioning authorities.

Move to cut litigation

It was, therefore, an extremely welcome step when the current government moved to reduce litigation and improve the system of redressing grievances among the military veterans. The Defence Minister constituted a Committee of Experts that submitted its report in November, 2015. Among the 32 recommendations that were immediately accepted by the minister, an important one was the withdrawal of litigation in all cases that had been settled by the high court/Supreme Court. The minister gave 45 days to implement the recommendations approved by him.

Despite this display of political will by the government, and a passage of three years, the implementation of the recommendations of the Committee of Experts remains tardy. In June 2017, the Ministry of Defence's (MoD) Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare issued instructions that no further appeals would be filed on legally settled cases, but pending appeals would not be withdrawn. This is not only a completely petulant approach but also bad in law.

Service HQs role

The Service headquarters have also not moved proactively to follow up on the recommendations approved by the Defence Minister in 2015. While it is accepted that changes in policy can only be done by the MoD, a narrow interpretation of policies by military officers in the headquarters, despite legal rulings to the contrary, cannot be considered a shield to deny due benefits to the soldiers.

As reported in a leading newspaper on November 22, the MoD, on September 7, had communicated that Litigations (should) be viewed in an impersonal, non-adversarial and dispassionate manner and should not be made a prestige issue or a win/loss situation. The tendency to the continuous unethical filing of appeals in issues that have attended finality at the high court or Supreme Court should be checked and all such pending appeals should be identified and immediately withdrawn. Despite this, only 180 cases out of the total of 7,676 are being withdrawn by the three services.

Financial implication

Contrast this with the other ministries. The Income Tax Department, in July this year, moved to reduce its litigation load. The threshold limits for filing appeals was raised to Rs 1 crore in the case of Supreme Court, and Rs 50 lakh and Rs 20 lakh in case of high court and tribunals, respectively. As per media reports, this amounted to a withdrawal of 41 per cent cases with a revenue impact of Rs 4,800 crore.

It is often argued that the military is a large organisation and rulings by the courts impact a great number of serving and retired officers and men. The financial implication of implementing the court orders is huge and this would put additional pressure on the already stressed revenue budget. Such an argument needs to be dismissed outright. Justice cannot be sacrificed at the altar of budgetary constraints. Also, spare a thought for the disabled soldier spending a significant part of his hard-earned pension in fighting cases in the Supreme Court.

In this world of instant media and viral tweets, impressions are extremely important. Today, there is a feeling that the government is battling its own soldiers and that the latter can hope for justice only from the courts. This is despite the political leadership clearly conveying its intent to reduce litigation in courts. How will this intent get translated into action?

There is little future in the blame game. A concerted effort has to be made to address this very vexing problem that shows everybody concerned in poor light. The first step is to adopt a more liberal outlook towards disabled soldiers. It is only then that we will be able to craft policies that show a more sympathetic approach. There must be ruthlessness to withdrawing past cases from the courts and filing new appeals. This scalpel will have to be wielded by the Defence Minister.

The Indian military is not a mercenary force that works only for monetary incentive. Values and an honour system are rated highly in the profession. However, the soldier, particularly after he sheds his uniform, must not feel abandoned.amansharma@tribunemail.com

London, December 3

British Sikh girls being targeted by Pakistani-origin grooming gangs for sexual abuse and exploitation over the years have not received full attention of the authorities due to political correctness, claims a new report released on Monday.

The 'Religiously Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of Young Sikh Women Across the UK' report, collated by the Sikh Mediation And Rehabilitation Team (SMART) and Sikh Youth UK, received the backing of parliamentarians as it called for an investigation into the pattern of abuse dating back decades.

"Since the early nineteen-eighties, evidence collated by British Sikh organisations has recorded cases of sexual abuse and exploitation against young Sikh females by grooming gangs populated by perpetrators of primarily Pakistani or Muslim heritage," the report noted.

"Although not exclusively, offences are documented as regularly being committed within the structure of networks, including the nuclear and extended family members of offenders. This has in turn prompted questions surrounding whether young Sikh females are victims of opportunists or being targeted due to their religious heritage," it said.

The researchers are keen to highlight that the study was not undertaken as a "witch-hunt against any individual, community, culture or faith" but as a means to provide some "clear understanding and acceptance" of key factors contributing to the risk.

Among the factors influencing the trend, the report flagged that some early Sikh migrants claim the organised targeting of Sikh females was conducted, in part, as "retaliation" for the involvement of Sikh soldiers in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.

It also documents a string of recent high-profile prosecutions of Pakistani-origin grooming gangs who targeted white British schoolgirls in areas such as Rochdale and Rotherham.

"With the emergence of multiple similar cases across the UK, the perceived failure to act has now been attributed to the 'political correctness' that inhibited authorities and agencies from addressing the racial and cultural dimensions understood as causative factors behind the abuse," the report noted.

It added: "Many within the Sikh community have advocated that it is of the utmost importance that British justice operates on a level playing field.

"However, where it is clear that a child is at threat or targeted for abuse due to their race or religion, it is essential that the recording and prosecution of cases reflects all aspects surrounding the abuse."

Veteran Indian-origin Labour Party MP Virendra Sharma welcomed the findings that would help tackle the wider issue of child abuse by ensuring that while police are sensitive, they act "effectively" to prevent any immediate risk.

"Steps to end the stigma of reporting abuse and end the culture of silence, referred to in the report, are key but will require many years of difficult intervention. I will be pleased to support steps to end any systematic targeting and this report is a key step in that fight," said Sharma, who represents the west London constituency of Ealing Southall with a large British Sikh population.

His views were echoed by fellow Labour Party MP Sarah Champion, who has been very vocal over the issue of child sexual grooming as many Pakistani-origin men from her constituency of Rotherham were jailed for sexual abuse and rape of schoolgirls.

She said: "When I first heard about the specific targeting of Sikh girls for abuse I was shocked. Having met survivors, I know the long-term devastation to the girls, their families and the Sikh community as a whole.

"I support the call for an inquiry into this form of sexual exploitation and how it has been able to go on for so long unchallenged by government agencies." The issue hit the headlines in recent weeks as six British Pakistanis were sentenced to a total of 101 years behind bars last month for sexually grooming and abusing young girls in the northern England town of Rotherham.

UK home secretary Sajid Javid, himself of Pakistani origin, had taken to Twitter to condemn the "sick Asian paedophiles" and attracted some backlash for singling out a particular community.

On Monday, he defended his comments once again, saying: "Any normal person looking at the recent convictions of gangs that abuse children would have noticed that a vast majority are from a Pakistani heritage and we cannot ignore that."

"If you do ignore that, if you sit in a position of power like me and you ignore that, what you actually end up doing is fuelling the voices of extremism that are out there that will then prey on that," he added.

The UK Home Office said child sexual abuse has been categorised as a "national threat", with the government investing millions of pounds to enable officers to actively seek out and bring offenders to justice.

"Group-based child sexual exploitation is a complex issue and the government is working to improve our understanding of how to prevent this heinous crime," a statement said. - PTIvinaymishra188@gmail.com

THE announcement of a new political party by a rebelling section of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) old guard  Ranjit Singh Brahmpura, Sewa Singh Sekhwan and Dr Rattan Singh Ajnala  is bound to shake up the grand old party of Punjab. While the hold of the Badal family on the SAD remains, it is far from firm, given the perception of their weakness in the face of public resentment against them and the opprobrium they have faced in the recent past.

Politics, like nature, abhors a vacuum. Even the belief that there is about to be a vacant space encourages ambition, and this is precisely what is happening. The coming together of the three leaders against the party they belonged to makes them a focal point of dissidence. A disparate set of leaders is hoping to cobble a third front, which remains elusive for now. The talk of launching a parallel party that will espouse the original ideology of the Akalis underscores how far the party has moved from its original intentions: formed as a task force to carry out the directions of the SGPC, it now dominates the SGPC. It is no longer the moral force it was.

Moral leadership is harder to attain than political. And in religious politics, a combination of both is necessary for credibility. The SAD has faced many a revolt. Certain leaders, including the redoubtable Gurcharan Singh Tohra, had put up a challenge, but all of them faded into the oblivion of political marginalisation. However, this is not to say that every SAD avatar with a suffix will suffer the same fate. The political leadership of the SAD would be ill-advised to dismiss this challenge, which has exposed serious breaches in its armour. The three rebel leaders have provided a platform which may attract others too; indeed, they are actively seeking support from within the SAD and outside. What happens next is a matter of conjecture, but there is little doubt that introspection and corrective action is the need of the hour for SAD leaders in particular, and the party on the whole.December 3, 2018

 An artistic tribute to a fallen astronaut is now in Earth orbit, following a history-making launch.



The ENOCH sculpture-satellite, which memorializes Robert H. Lawrence, Jr., the first African American selected to train as an astronaut, flew as part of Spaceflight Industries' SSO-A SmallSat Express. The mission, which launched Monday (Dec. 3) aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket with 63 other spacecraft, marked the largest single rideshare from a U.S.-based launch vehicle to date.



The launch, at 10:34 a.m. PST (1834 GMT) from Space Launch Complex 4E (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, was also the first time that SpaceX reflew one of its reusable Falcon 9 first stages for a third time. The stage, which again landed on a sea-based droneship, previously launched in May and August on missions to deploy commercial communication satellites.



Artist Tavares Strachan, working in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), created the ENOCH satellite to bring to light Lawrence's story by combining the traditions of ancient Egypt with Japanese rituals and the history of space exploration. The satellite is comprised of a 24-karat gold canopic jar with a bust of the late Manned Orbiting Laboratory (MOL) trainee.



A U.S. Air Force pilot with a doctorate in physical chemistry, Lawrence flew test flights that later informed the performance of the space shuttle landing from orbit. In June 1967, he was recruited for the Air Force's MOL program, which was focused on establishing a crew-tended reconnaissance platform in Earth orbit.



Lawrence, 32, died on Dec. 8, 1967, in the crash of an F-104 Starfighter jet. Had he lived, he would have likely transferred with other MOL candidates to NASA's astronaut corps after the Air Force program was canceled two years later. The move could have led to him being the first African American in space, a distinction that Guion "Guy" Bluford gained in 1983, flying on the space shuttle Challenger with MOL veteran Richard Truly.



In 1997, Lawrence was honored by the Astronauts Memorial Foundation with the addition of his name to the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.



"I remember first discovering the story of Robert Henry Lawrence Jr., America's first black astronaut who never got the pleasure of space exploration," wrote Strachan on his Facebook page. "A superhero mixed with fighter pilot, mixed with physical chemist, Lawrence Jr. was the kind of person lots of boys and girls on my street corner would have wanted to be, but never knew his story."



The ENOCH satellite borrows symbolically from the ancient Egyptian practice of using a canopic jar to protect and preserve organs of the deceased for use in the afterlife. Stachan's canopic jar was blessed at a Shinto shrine in Fukuoka, Japan to recognize it as "a container for Lawrence's soul." The name "Enoch" refers to a biblical figure in Jewish, Christian and Muslim texts who never experienced mortal death, but instead ascended directly into the afterlife.



The satellite, which is expected to circle the planet for the next seven years, was sponsored by SpaceX through a grant awarded by the LACMA Art + Technology Lab. In 2014, Strachan met with SpaceX president and chief operating officer Gwynne Shotwell, an advisor to the lab, to explore how technology could push his art in new directions. Strachan's portfolio includes works themed around deep sea exploration, extreme climatology and aeronautical and astronomical science.







ENOCH integration and deployment. Click to enlarge in a new window. (Spaceflight/LACMA)

"Tavares Strachan's ENOCH exemplifies the LACMA Art + Technology Lab's mission to foster conversations between talented artists and leading technology companies to realize collaborations that would not be otherwise possible," said Michael Govan, LACMA CEO. "Launching an artwork into space is a spectacular result of the program. More importantly, Tavares's project justly honors an under recognized pioneer of NASA's space program."



ENOCH launched alongside another art project as part of the SSO-A mission.



Contemporary artist Trevor Paglen's Orbital Reflector, produced in collaboration with the Nevada Museum of Art, is a sculpture made of a reflective Mylar-like material that will be visible from Earth with the naked eye. Deployed from a small cubesat, the 100-foot (30-meter) "balloon" will orbit Earth for a few months before falling into the atmosphere to be destroyed.



"I think one of the most important things that art can do is give you a reason to look at something," said Paglen in a video accompanying a 2017 Kickstarter campaign that raised $76,000 for the Orbital Reflector project. "Here I am going to create a reason for you to look at the sky and think about what it is you are looking at."



The 62 other satellites deployed on Monday include microsats and cubesats from commercial and government entities, which vary from technology demonstrations and imaging satellites to educational research endeavors.editorial@tribune.com

Bijendra Ahlawat

Tribune News Service

Faridabad, December 2

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday that the BJP Government in Haryana had failed to deliver on all fronts and will be shown the door by people in the next Assembly poll. AAP is set to emerge as the alternative in Haryana in wake of its performance in Delhi.

Kejriwal was here to address the School- Hospital rally at Tigaon Anaj Mandi. He said people were fed up of the false promises and failures of the present state government on various fronts.

Comparing the work done by both the parties in the sectors of education and health, he said while AAPs good work was evident in Delhi, residents of Haryana were still looking for good and affordable education and basic healthcare facilities, even as Khattar government was busy making tall claims and spending crores on publicity.

Challenging the Haryana Government to come out with details of the money spent and results in both these areas, he claimed that the situation of government schools and civil hospitals here was pitiable.

Ruing the attempts to stall his visit to some of the government schools in the state recently, Kejriwal said it was a sign of frustration of the BJP Government, which was trying to hide its embarrassment over the failures. This, he said, had made the AAP hold School- Hospital rallies across the state so that the issues confronting the common man could be highlighted.

The AAP supremo blamed BJP for the rampant corruption and inefficient governance and said it was high time that misgovernance was replaced with good governance. It was AAP that was capable of replacing the outdated system responsible for continued suffering of people.

Accusing the incumbent state government of being anti-farmer, Kejriwal said farmers whose land was acquired several years ago were still awaiting adequate compensation in Neharpar area of Faridabad.

This was AAPs second School- Hospital rally. The first one was held at Gurugram last week.editorial@tribune.com

Pradeep Sharma

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 2

Launched with much fanfare, the Ek Aur Sudhar cell of the Khattar government, which aimed at rolling out a new reform every month, seems to have lost steam.

Since July 12, when certain important decisions about the safety and security of women were announced by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar at a function in Panchkula, no new initiative seems to have been taken by the Ek Aur Sudhar cell of the state government.

Apparently, after a lot of criticism from various quarters, including the Opposition, the BJP government created the cell last year. With a view to providing good governance, the state government was supposed to roll out one reform under it every month after massive public consultations.

During initial days of its launch, several initiatives were launched, which included setting up of the Ponds Management Authority, Kisan Kalyan Pradhikaran and the Antyodaya Saral Kendras at the tehsil, sub-division and district level to bring schemes being run for the welfare of the poorer sections of society under one roof.

Most revolutionary reforms announced under the programme included important decisions for the empowerment and security of women after a sudden spurt in crime against them. These included withdrawing the facilities of social security pension, including old age pension and driving and arm licences from persons accused of molestation and rape across Haryana. The strict decisions of the Khattar government were applauded by women organisations. Durga Shakti App was also widely publicised as part of this reform.

The direct fallout of the failure to launch administrative reforms in Haryana is that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is taking the state government to task on its failure on several fronts, including education and health.

Rocky Mittal, project director, Ek Aur Sudhar cell, conceded that the work at the special cell had virtually come to a standstill. If there is no directive from the higher authorities, there is hardly anything I can do to roll out a new reform every month. I am helpless, he said.

No new initiative since Julyeditorial@tribune.com

Vishal Joshi

Tribune News Service

Kurukshetra, December 3

Governor Satyadeo Narain Arya on Monday inaugurated Kurukshetra Kumbh Mela, the first-ever such religious event, at Brahma Sarovar here. The Kumbh Mela is traditionally organised at Hardwar, Allahabad, Nashik and Ujjain.

Arya said the Kumbh Mela would be organised from December 3 to 7. He lauded the Akhil Bhartiya Sarvmangla Kumbh Samiti for reviving the mela.

Swami Chidanand, convener of the samiti, and editor of Lok Sabha TV Shyam Kishore were behind the Kurukshetra kumbh.

Samiti members claimed that Chidanand deciphered a reference in ancient texts that centuries ago Kumbh used to be held at Kurukshetra and other places.

Kishore claimed that the mela was being organised as per panchaang or Hindu calendar. He said similar Kumbh had been held in Simaria, Jagannath, Dwarika and Rameshwaram.

The state-funded Kurukshetra Development Board (KDB), with Governor as its ex-officio chairperson, was co-organiser of the function. A scholar disputed the claim that Kurukshetra had any past tradition of hosting Kumbh Mela.

Octogenarian Prof Himmat Singh Sinha, aide of the late Prime Minister Gulzari Lal Nanda, said the organisers were misleading people by giving it an unverified religious nomenclature of Kumbh Mela.

Sinha said it was highly objectionable that government agencies supported an individual to give new and unverified dimension to change historical character of an ancient place.

He said scholars who had worked on Kurukshetra should have been consulted before allowing such an event at Brahma Sarovar.

I have studied the history of Kurukshetra and ancient scriptures. There is no mention that Kumbh was held in Kurukshetra in the last 7,500 years. The KDB has dented its reputation by co-organising such an event, said Sinha.editorial@tribune.com

Sushil Manav

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 3

The state government has taken a serious view of leak of information about some recent raids by the State Vigilance Bureau (SVB) to nab corrupt officials, leading to failure of operations.

Navraj Sandhu, Additional Chief Secretary, Vigilance Department, has written to heads of all government departments, Commissioners of various divisions, Deputy Commissioners (DCs), Registrar of the Punjab and Haryana High Court and all District and Sessions Judges, asking them to bring this to the notice of officers working under their administrative control.

It has come to the notice of the government that in some raids, information was leaked, which compromised success of the operation. The government attaches utmost importance to successful investigation and prosecution of cases of corruption, Sandhu said in her letter.

The communication further said all government servants, including gazetted officers, should cooperate and ensure that no information was leaked regarding raids. She warned that any violation of directions would be viewed very seriously by the government.

Under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1998, the SVB carried out raids to nab red-handed officials demanding bribe for any official work.

Sources said under the procedure followed by the SVB, it informs the DC of the district after receiving a complaint against any government official regarding demand of bribe.

The DC appointed a duty magistrate, who could be a Tehsildar, Block Development and Panchayat Officer or any other official, to accompany the SVB team.

After this, the complainant was given currency notes laced with phenolphthalein equivalent to the bribe money and accompanied by a shadow witness. He approached the official concerned to deliver the amount.

The moment the official received the bribe, the shadow witness signalled the SVB team, which immediately nabbed the erring official in presence of the duty magistrate. The officials hands were washed and water turning red because of phenolphthalein was preserved as evidence.

Sources said the leak of information has been reported at the level of staff members of DCs or duty magistrates. In some cases, leak at the end of SVB officials could not be ruled out, claimed the sources.editorial@tribune.com

Ravinder Saini

Tribune News Service

Jhajjar, December 3

The suicide by an SC youth, Rajesh, in the city police post here a week ago has taken a political colour. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Congress MP from Rohtak Deepender Hooda and Jhajjar MLA Geeta Bhukkal on Monday visited the bereaved family to express their condolences.

Kejriwal demanded a CBI inquiry into the case, adequate monetary aid for Rajeshs family, a government job to a member of the family and stern action against police officials responsible for the death. Deepender, for his part, assured the family of getting them justice.

The state has witnessed a sharp rise in cases of atrocities on SCs during the BJP government. Since Rajesh was the sole breadwinner of the family. So, the government should provide the family with ample financial help, Kejriwal told the media.

Earlier, Rajeshs mother Krishna told the Delhi Chief Minister that the police informed her about her sons death after several hours. My son cannot commit suicide. He has been murdered, she claimed.

Rajesh, an auto-rickshaw driver, reportedly ended his life by hanging himself from a ceiling fan in the city police post on November 27.

He was brought to the police post by an elderly man, Vishnu, in connection with his grandson who reportedly went missing on November 14. The police later booked Vishnu on charges of abetment to suicide on the complaint of Krishna.

Jhajjar SP Pankaj Nain said Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate was inquiring into the matter and action would be taken against those found guilty.

Delhi CM corners BJP govt on health

Mahendragarh: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal has cornered the state government on the poor condition of government schools and healthcare centres in Haryana. "The BJP government has divided people on caste lines," he said at a rally in Narnaul on Monday. Kejriwal promised people to improve the condition of government schools and healthcare centres if AAP was voted to power in Haryana. TNS

AAP to set up AIIMS in Rewari

Rewari: Arvind Kejriwal has supported villagers sitting on a dharna for 63 days, demanding AIIMS in the districts Manethi village, as announced by Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar over three years ago. The AAP will get AIIMS established in Rewari on coming to power in Haryana, he said. TNSeditorial@tribune.com

Our Correspondent

Sonepat, December 2

Leader of Opposition in Haryana State Assembly Abhay Chautala said on Sunday that people of the state were with former Chief Minister Om Prakash Chautala and they would not support any attempt to divide the party for selfish political interests.

He was addressing a public meeting at Datoli village in Gannaur Assembly constituency of the district, as part of the Jan Adhikar Yatra. The main objective of the Yatra was to make people aware of the misdeeds of the BJP Government in the state and to get the decision of the Supreme Court about construction of SYL implemented.

Without naming Ajay Chautala and his sons, he said some people were organising a rally at Jind on December 9 and had claimed that OP Chautala would be with them. But I met with him (Chautala) five days ago in jail and he clarified that he will not attend any rally, Abhay remarked.

He alleged that the BJP was trying to save former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda during the past four years. But Hooda was chargesheeted after pressure from the INLD and BSP and he would definitely be put behind bars as no witness was required in the cases filed against him.

The INLD leader claimed that BJP had already lost its vote bank in the state and the Congress was also a divided house. Many of the Congress leaders in the state were aspiring to become Chief Minister and were engaged in pulling each other down, he added.

Sumer Jangra, state general secretary of the BSP, said the INLD-BSP alliance had emerged as a very strong political alternative for the people in the state to vote in the next Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.

They also addressed a public meeting at Rajpur in Gannaur Assembly constituency and Murthal and Nahri villages in Rai Assembly constituency.editorial@tribune.com

Pratibha Chauhan

Tribune News Service

Shimla, December 3

Two vacant posts in the State Administrative Tribunal are likely to be filled shortly as the Select Committee, headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, will meet on December 5.

With an all-time high of 14 bureaucrats will retire in 2019, many serving and retired babus are in the race for the two posts. They include two retired Chief Secretaries - VC Pharka and Vineet Chawdhry. While Chawdhry retired on September 30, Pharka will superannuate next year.

A total of 13 persons have applied for the two posts of member in SAT. Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works and Revenue, Manisha Nanda, who is due to retire on May 31, 2019, is one of the applicants. Retired IAS officer PC Dhimans name also figures on the list of applicants, besides a retired Chief Secretary from Delhi. The names of two retirees from the Indian Forest Service (IFS) also figure on the list.

SAT is functioning with its Chairman and lone member DK Sharma. The posts fell vacant on the completion of the tenure of Harinder Hira, retired Chief Secretary, on April 30, 2017, and later Prem Kumar, retired IAS officer, who retired in April 2018.

A total of 30,283 applications were filed before SAT till November 30, 2018, of which 20,198 have been decided. A spokesperson of the tribunal said in addition to the applications, 684 contempt petitions, 32 review petitions, 104 execution petitions and 8,278 miscellaneous applications were also disposed of during the period. Of the 6,481 cases received from the High Court, 1,586 cases have been decided. The previous BJP regime had wound up SAT when it came to power, shifting all cases to the High Court. The Congress, on returning to power in 2012, resorted SAT on February 28, 2015.

Serving, retired babus in raceeditorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, December 3

The J&K Police have busted three major modules of militants across the Valley by arresting at least 18 overground workers (OGWs).

Two separate modules of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad were busted by the police in south Kashmirs Pulwama district and 10 OGWs of the group were arrested. One module was busted in Khrew and another in Tral.

A police spokesman said a special team was constituted to investigate the recent attacks which were aimed at creating fear in Tral.

On the basis of material evidence collected, four persons Younis Nabi Naik of Pinglish, Fayaz Ahmad Wani of Reshipora, Riyaz Ahmad Ganaie of Nigeenpora and Bilal Ahmad Rather of Hafoo Nigeenpora were taken into custody, he said, adding that investigation had revealed their complicity in terror attacks carried out in Tral.

Another module was busted in the Khrew area of Pampore in which six associates of the JeM were arrested. The police said the module in Khrew was in touch with Pakistani militant Waeem, who was killed in a gunfight on November 25.

The OGWs arrested were identified as Javaid Ahmad Parray of Bethan, Yasir Bashir Wani of Babapora, Tahir Yousuf Lone of Khrew, Rafiq Ahmad Bhat of Sharshali, Javaid Ahmad Khanday of Khrew and Imran Nazir of Naimsaab. They were arrested on the basis of incriminating material recovered, the spokesman said.

He said a huge quantity of incriminating material, including gelatin sticks, detonators, materials for making IEDs and grenades, was recovered from the module.

Meanwhile, eight militant accomplices were arrested in north Kashmir. They were planning to snatch weapons. Based on a credible input that a criminal conspiracy has been hatched by some overground workers of terrorists to snatch weapons from policemen on duty, eight terrorist accomplices have been picked up by the police from the Baramulla, Tangmarg and Srinagar areas, a senior police officer in Baramulla said. He said a case had been registered in Tangmarg police station and investigation taken up. During the investigation, some recovery of arms and ammunition has been made with the assistance of other security forces, including the CRPF and Army, he said.

Militants escape cordon in Shopian

Militants and security forces exchanged brief fire in south Kashmir's Shopian district on Monday. The police said the brief shootout took place in the Imam Sahab area of Shopian on Monday morning during a cordon and search operation. "Militants managed to escape," sources said. The operation was later called off.editorial@tribune.com

Azhar Qadri

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, December 2

Governor Satya Pal Malik on Sunday evening said the government was not making or even considering any changes to the Permanent Resident Certificate rules. He issued the statement in response to National Conference vice-president Omar Abdullahs concerns over reports of change in the rules.

The Governor wrote: It (The J&K Permanent Resident Certificate Act) is an integral part of the legal structure of Jammu and Kashmir and there is no step whatsoever to tamper with this law.

Earlier in the day, Omar wrote a letter to Governor urging him to refrain from changing the Permanent Resident Certificate (PRC) rules and warned that it would disturb the states fragile peace.

Omar said his party believed that any change to the PRC was objectionable and condemnable. Our party, the National Conference, is of the opinion that this is an attempt to distort the demography of the state and finds it detrimental to J&Ks special status, Omar said in the letter to the Governor.

He also warned the Governor that J&K was a sensitive state and any misadventure by the SAC (State Administrative Council) could disturb the fragile and precarious peace here.

Responding to Omars concerns, the Governor wrote, As for the matters in your letter, I would like to highlight that no changes in the procedural rules governing the issue of PRC will ever be done without the larger consultation of all stakeholders.

The Governor further said the issuing of the PRC to genuine state subject applicants would be eased and they should get it within 30 days as prescribed in the Public Service Guarantee Act.

In the letter, Omar had said that the SAC headed by the Governor was unilaterally bringing changes in the working of institutions and procedures, a practice that is against the principles and spirit of democracy and participative governance.

Omar further warned that any attempt to change the PRC rules would be a brazen act to further create mistrust among people here and can have serious ramification for the prospects of peace and harmony in J&K. This move comes at a time when the state does not have a popularly elected government. The Assembly has been dissolved and elections are due within months. This makes your administration open to question as we believe the role of the government is more in the nature of a caretaker government, Omar said.

Don't create new problems: Sajad to Guv

The Peoples Conference chief and an ally of the BJP, Sajad Lone, on Sunday urged Governor Satya Pal Malik to "restrict his energies" to what he is mandated to do amid reports of possible changes to the PRC rules. Lone said the Governor's administration needed to "restrict itself to basic governance". "No structural changes pertaining to the PRC or J&K Bank are acceptable. Restrict your energies to what you are mandated to do -- which incidentally you are not doing," he said. "Please don't invent new problems," Lone said.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Jammu, December 3

Jammu and Kashmir will go for the seventh phase of the nine-phase panchayat poll on Tuesday to decide the fate of 5,575 candidates contesting 341 sarpanch and 1,798 panch seats spread over 15 districts of the state.

A total of 30 blocks  16 in the Kashmir valley and 14 in the Jammu division  will witness polling. The main focus will be on six blocks in south Kashmir, which so far have witnessed low voting, and areas bordering Pakistan in Jammu district.

According to official sources, there are a total of 59 polling stations located close to the International Border with Pakistan in Arnia, Suchetgarh and Bishnah blocks of Jammu district. The administration has taken extra measures for smooth conduct of voting in these areas as the neighbouring country may disrupt the election process, the sources said.

Shaleen Kabra, Chief Electoral Officer, J&K, said the during the seventh phase of the polling, nominations were invited for 545 panchayat halqas (sarpanch seats) having 4,345 panch constituencies.

While 85 sarpanches and 912 panches have been elected unopposed, polling will take place for 341 sarpanch and 1,798 panch seats, with 5,575 candidates in the fray, Kabra said, adding, An electorate of 4,75,865 would be voting for the sarpanch constituencies whereas 3,45,880 voters would cast ballot for the panch constituencies.

In this phase, a total of 2,714 polling stations have been set up  576 in the Kashmir division and 2,138 in the Jammu division. Of these, 892 have been categorised as hypersensitive  428 in Kashmir and 464 in the Jammu division, Kabra said.

The voting will take place from 8 am to 2 pm while the state government has declared holiday in all poll-bound blocks.

He said basic minimum facilities had been ensured in all polling stations for facilitating the voters. Security arrangements have been made, including the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces, he said.

At the end of six phases, in respect of the sarpanch and panch constituencies that have seen contests, the overall turnout has been 73.6 per cent for the state, with a poll percentage of 46.1 in the Kashmir division and 82.8 in the Jammu division.

Pertinently, the boycott by separatists and terror threats have impacted the voting process in the Kashmir valley in the sixth phase which recorded just 17.3 per cent polling. Due to the brisk polling across the Jammu division in the sixth phase, the overall poll percentage of the state stood at 76.9.

Polling in 30 blocksDecember 3, 2018

 A cosmonaut and two astronauts bound for the International Space Station made it safely into Earth orbit on Monday (Dec. 3), two months after another crew suffered an in-flight abort attempting to do the same.



Cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko of Russia's federal space corporation Roscosmos, astronaut Anne McClain of NASA and astronaut David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) lifted off aboard Russia's Soyuz MS-11 spacecraft from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan at 5:31 a.m. CST (1131 GMT or 5:31 p.m. local Kazakh time).



About two minutes later, their Soyuz-FG rocket's four side-mounted boosters fell away from the launch vehicle, marking the point in flight when the previous Soyuz MS-10 crew had to quickly transition to making an emergency ballistic landing.



"Risk is part of our profession," said Kononenko at his crew's pre-launch press conference, addressing the Oct. 11 launch failure. "We go through a lot of training where we prepare for different off-nominal situations and we understand they can happen during spaceflight."



"The outcome of the last flight doesn't directly correlate to how we feel about this flight. We feel very ready for it," added McClain. "There were three important questions to be answered prior to clearing us for flight and those were: figuring out what happened, why it happened and how to prevent it from happening again."



A Russian state commission determined that a deformed sensor had resulted in one of the side-mounted boosters impacting the Soyuz MS-10 rocket's second stage, which then broke apart in flight. The Soyuz MS-10 spacecraft performed as expected and crewmates Aleksey Ovchinin and Nick Hague safely returned to the ground, landing on the steppe of Kazakhstan.



"The crew was perfectly okay thanks to the incredibly safe and redundant design of the Soyuz spacecraft," said Saint-Jacques. "As crew members, I would say it was almost a reassuring thing to witness how, even in such dire circumstances, a high in the atmosphere failure, they came back to Earth completely safe."



Nine minutes into their launch, Kononenko, McClain and Saint-Jacques entered orbit, putting them on course to rendezvous with the space station four orbits later. The crew selected a small plush raccoon and an "Elf on the Shelf" doll holding a small green dragon as their "zero-g indicators," signaling their successful ascent.



Update: The Soyuz MS-11 docked at the orbiting outpost's Poisk module at 11:33 a.m. CST (1733 GMT) on Monday.







Soyuz MS-11 crew launches for space station. Click to enlarge in a new window. (NASA)

Waiting for Kononenko, McClain and Saint-Jacques aboard the space station are Expedition 57 commander Alexander Gerst of the European Space Agency (ESA) and flight engineers Serena Aunon-Chancellor of NASA and Sergey Prokopyev of Roscosmos. The six astronauts and cosmonauts will work together through Dec. 19, when Gerst, Aunon-Chancellor and Prokopyev will depart on Soyuz MS-09.



Kononenko will then become commander of Expedition 58. A new three-member crew are scheduled to arrive on Soyuz MS-12 in March.



As Expediton 57/58 crew members, Kononenko, McClain and Saint-Jacques will continue work on hundreds of experiments in biology, biotechnology, physical science and Earth science. They will also conduct spacewalks, including an EVA (extravehicular activity) by Kononenko and Prokopyev scheduled for Dec. 11, and will oversee the arrival and departure of cargo resupply spacecraft.



An uncrewed test flight of SpaceX's commercial Dragon spacecraft designed to fly astronauts to and from the space station is also slated to arrive while Kononenko, McClain and Saint-Jacques are on orbit.



Kononenko, McClain and Saint-Jacques are expected to stay on the space station through June.



Kononenko, 54, is beginning his fourth stay on the International Space Station after serving on Expedition 17 in 2008, Expedition 30/31 in 2012 and Expedition 44/45 in 2015. He starts this mission having already logged 533 days in orbit.



McClain and Saint-Jacques are making their first spaceflights. McClain, 39, is the first of NASA's 2013 astronaut class, nicknamed the "8-Balls," to enter space (Hague was slated to earn that distinction before the Soyuz MS-10 abort). Saint-Jacques, 48, was selected as a Canadian Space Agency astronaut in 2009.



Soyuz MS-11 is the 57th Russian Soyuz spacecraft to launch to the International Space Station since October 2000 and 140th since the first Soyuz flight in 1967.editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, December 2

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Sunday alleged that the father of BJP ally Sajad Lone, Abdul Gani Lone, had been instrumental in initiating militancy in the state.

Farooq, who has served as the states Chief Minister three times, said Sajads father had met him when his government was dismissed in January 1990. When I was dismissed, his (Sajads) father met me and said he was going to Pakistan and bring the gun. I begged him not to bring the gun, Farooq said.

The former Chief Minister said he pleaded before Lone that it would bring miseries for Kashmiris. I told him dont do this but he brought the gun, Farooq told reporters on the sidelines of a party function in north Kashmirs Baramulla district.

Lone was a senior separatist leader and also the chairman of the Hurriyat Conference. He was shot dead by unidentified gunmen, suspected to be militants, in 2002. One of Lones son, Bilal, is a member of the Mirwaiz Umar Farooq-led Hurriyat Conference and his other son, Sajad, is a mainstream politician and a close ally of the BJP.

Speaking at a function in Baramulla, Farooq had earlier urged governments of India and Pakistan to replicate the spirit of the Kartarpur corridor in the state of Jammu and Kashmir by opening all routes along LoC and international border that have become vestigial post Partition.

I urge the governments of India and Pakistan to open the traditional routes between the two countries. This initiative will not only help boost the economic activities on both sides of the border but will also help rekindle the flame of friendship between India and Pakistan, he said.

Farooq said his party had no predilection for power and has never compromised on Article 370 and Article 35 A.

We were obligated to shore up the alliance with the PDP and INC following relentless and unfailing attacks on our special position by those who are inimical to the special status of our state. The sole purpose of the anticipated alliance was to put up a strong front against the forces which are fiddling with the working autonomy of our institutions, their hierarchy, and their basic structure, he said.editorial@tribune.com

Rifat Mohidin

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, December 2

The 18-year-old Srinagar student who went missing from Sharda University in Noida on October 28 and reportedly joined Islamic States Kashmir chapter has been arrested by the Jammu and Kashmir Police from his home.

The police said the teenager, Ehtisham Bilal, had been brought to the mainstream with the help of his family and an individual.

Bilal, pursuing BSc in radiology and imaging technology at the Noida university, was allegedly beaten up by some students on the campus on October 4 and a video was shared on the social media, his family said.

On October 28, Bilal disappeared from the university and days later, his photograph in a black attire surfaced on the social media with an audio message claiming that he had joined the militant ranks.

The police said Bilal was arrested from his home in Khanyar, Srinagar. Further investigations were being carried out by the Delhi Police and J&K Police.

He was not feeling well, so we took him to hospital. He will be handed over to the family. He has come back on his familys request. We are there to help him. They will not be harassed, DGP Dilbagh Singh told The Tribune.

The family had made passionate appeals to militant outfits to send their son home and urged J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik to help them bring him back.

The police officials said the teenager had joined the university this year after clearing his Class XII exams in Kashmir.ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Actress Sonali Bendre Behl, who has been putting up a brave fight against metastatic cancer for months in New York, will return to Mumbai  where her heart is  for a happy interval.

Sonali made the announcement via a social media post, which included a message and a photograph in which Sonali looks all set for the journey.

They say Distance makes the heart grow fonder. It sure does. But lets never underestimate what distance teaches you. Being away from home in the city of New York, I realised I was walking amongst so many stories. Each trying to write their own chapter in different ways. Each struggling to do it but never giving up. Each taking it one day at a time, Sonali wrote.

She added: Im on my way back to where my heart is. Its a feeling I cant describe in words but Im going to try - its the joy to see my family and friends again, the excitement to do what I love and mainly the gratitude for the journey Ive had up until this moment.

The fight is not yet over... but Im happy and looking forward to this happy interval. IANSChandrabhaal Tripathi

Chandrabhaal Tripathi

I AM glad that Sri Nand Kumar Sai, Chairman, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, has tried to explode a myth that Lord Hanuman was not a monkey but a tribal leader. He has contradicted Yogi Adityanath who stated during a poll meeting in Rajasthan that Lord Hanuman was a Dalit leader.

I wrote an article on the subject in 1961 when I was posted as Assistant Commissioner for SC & ST at Jaipur, pleading for the integration of tribal communities into Indian society. I mentioned that the Dravidian tribe of Oraons migrated from around Pampa, presently in Bellary, Karnataka, to Chhota Nagpur about 1,200 years ago  as mentioned by Rai Bahadur Sarat Chandra Roy, the doyen of anthropologist (without a degree) in his monograph on the tribe. One of the totemic clans of Oraons is Tiga, which worships Hanuman as its deity.

I wish our political and religious leaders were taught about totemism in tribal society. In Ramayana, Hanuman, Bali and Sugriva seem to be of a tribal clan, with monkey as its totem. In the story popularised through Ramacharitamanasa by Tulsidas in North India, they are depicted as monkeys.

As children, we used to enjoy Hanumans antics in the town of Basti, UP, during Ramlila. When I studied anthropology at Lucknow University, I learnt about totemism. Our guru, Dr DN Majumdar, used to say that the Aryans (a linguistic group speaking Indo-Aryan languages in modern terminology and not indicating a racial identity; though the term race itself is under dispute among anthropologists), usually identified with the Caucasian and Mediterranean races, suffered from racial superiority and looked down upon people speaking different languages or languages belonging to different families, e.g., the language of Oraons, Kudukh, belongs to the Dravidian family of languages. It is interesting to study the migration of the Dravidian-speaking Oraon tribe to now Chhota Nagpur, where most tribes speak the Mundari family of languages, including major tribes, Mundas and Santhals.

Dr Majumdar used to quote from scriptures how the Aryans had described the non-Aryans, e.g., the handsome and fair Khas people (mentioned in the Mahabharata and a polyandrous community living in Jaunsar-Bawar Pargana of Dehradun district and adjoining Jaunpar-Rawain Pargana of Tehri-Garhwal in Uttarakhand) were described as turagamukhaah (horse-faced) or the Asura tribal community was described as anaasaah (noseless, an absurd concept about flat-nosed people).

About 50 years ago, during my tour of Araku Valley in Visakapatanam, I asked some bhakts who their supreme deity was. Their deity was Jambavanta. A pity this tribe was reduced to the status of bears jumping on the stage during Ramlila.

Ram bhakts should acknowledge the great contribution of various non-Aryan tribal communities to the success of Lord Ramas war campaigns.rchopra@tribunemail.com

Beijing, December 3

China on Monday welcomed India and Pakistans efforts to open the Kartarpur corridor, saying strengthening dialogue between them and properly addressing their differences meant a lot to world peace and development.

The corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistans Kartarpur--the final resting place of Guru Nanak--with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Indias Gurdaspur district.

Both India and Pakistan last month announced that stretches would be developed in their respective areas to link the two revered places.

We are glad to see the good interactions between Pakistan and India. Both are important countries in South Asia. The stability of their relations means a lot to the world peace and development, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a media briefing here answering a question on the corridor.

We sincerely hope that the two countries can strengthen coordination and dialogue, properly address their differences, and improve their relations for stability and peace, he said. PTIuttara@tribuneindia.com

Shahira Naim

Tribune News Service

Lucknow, December 3

A police inspector and a 20-year old villager were killed in Bulandshahr on Monday after clashes broke out between villagers and police following the discovery of reported cow meat in the fields of a former gram pradhan at Mahav village.

Violent villagers damaged a police picket, smashed around 15 vehicles parked in the police compound and set ablaze three to four police vehicles.

Heavy police force has been rushed to the district from neighbouring Aligarh and Noida. Five companies of Rapid Action Force (RAF) and six additional companies of Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) are patrolling the district, said ADG (Law and Order) Anand Kumar.

Five policemen, including the Syana Circle Officer Satya Prakash Sharma, have also been injured in the incident.

Speaking to the media, the ADG (L&O) said taking a serious view of the incident Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instituted three probes.

The first inquiry to be conducted by ADG (Intelligence) will examine the entire incident about the reported cow slaughter and recovery of meat causing angry villagers to indulge in brick batting and firing. It will submit its report within 48 hours.

A SIT has also been set up to probe the killing of Syana Station Officer Subodh Kumar Singh and Sumit, a 20-year-old resident of Chigrawati village, and related cases.

The SIT would be headed by IG of Meerut Range Ram Kumar and would have 3 to 4 members said ADG (Law and Order).

The third would be a routine magisterial probe to be ordered by the Bulandshahr district magistrate Anuj Kumar Jha.

Sharing the sequence of events the ADG (L&O) said around 10.30 am former gram pradhan of Mahav village Raj Kumar arrived at Syana police station to complain about chunks of suspected cow meat lying in his fields.

Syana station officer Subodh Kumar Singh arrived at the spot along with this team where angry villagers had already gathered in large numbers.

After much persuasion, the SO convinced the angry villagers that an FIR would be filed against named and unnamed people and appropriate action would be taken.

The police were already in the process of sealing the recovered chunks of meat for forensic examination when some mischief makers took hold of the meat, loaded it on a tractor-trolley and moved towards Chigrawati police post, said the ADG.

He added that the villagers blocked the main Syana road before the Chigrawati police post. The Syana CO and SO were on the spot interacting with the villagers asking them to allow the police to do their job.

"By that time around a crowd of 400 people from the neighbouring villages of Chigrawati, Mahav and Naya Bans had gathered and started indulging in brick batting. They attacked the police team, set vehicles ablaze in a free for all the continued between 12 to 1.30 pm," said the ADG.

He said the police retaliated by resorting to mild lathicharge and firing in the air. The villagers also indulged in firing from countrymade guns while the police and villagers ran for cover.

Kumar said SO Subodh Kumar Singh was probably hit by a stone and was immediately rushed to Bulandshahr where he succumbed to his injuries.

"The post mortem report says that he died of excessive bleeding due to injury from a blunt object," said the ADG.

Villager Sumit was killed by a bullet wound. "The postmortem report would confirm the bore of the weapon and establish if it was a police weapon or he was killed in a cross fire by the villagers," said Kumar.editorial@tribune.com

Ravi S Singh

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 2

Undeterred by the conspicuous absence of the BSP representation at the farmers mega rally here Friday last, the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC), which spearheaded the national agitation, has given a one-month ultimatum to Narendra Modi government to fulfill its demands.

This is bound to add to the governments problems as the farmers have demonstrated their determination to take it on by staging two national-level protests as many as two months in the national capital.

Farmers hitting the streets highlighting their plight and pain is no good advertisement for the BJP-led NDA, which received strong backing from the farming community which preponderate the countrys geographical landscape.

The farmers will wait for a month for the governments response before deciding their next move, AIKSCC convener VM Singh said, and added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had been apprised of the purpose of the agitation, much before it was organised. Our slogan is that Modi ji, pass the laws or quit, Singh said.

The farmers singular demands, which were the rallying point of the two-day agitation, are for the passage of two Bills at a specially convened session of Parliament to ensure remunerative MSP for their produce, and securing them from financial indebtedness. As many as 21 political parties, including the Congress and the Left parties, have expressed support to the demand.

Singh said the model code of conduct for the 2109 General Election, scheduled in April-May, will come in vogue, tentatively in February. Hence, there was not much time for either the farmers or the government.

He clarified that the farmers are not against the present government. They have genuine demand in line with the BJPs promises made to the farmers in the last LS elections.

The AIKSCC is a joint platform of 209 farmers organizations spread across the country. Significantly, they do not have no leaning to saffron spectrum of the polity.

The rally, which was a culmination of two day-agitation, witnessed leaders of about 15 political parties, including Congress president Rahul Gandhi, addressing it and supporting the demands.rchopra@tribunemail.com

Chennai, December 3

Several research scholars and hostel inmates of IIT-Madras here have alleged harassment and violation of their privacy by vigilance officers during checks conducted in their rooms, a charge denied by the Dean of students.

The hostel residents, both men and women, allege that officers barge into rooms, insult and click pictures without consent and their behaviour violates the students right to privacy and dignity.

The dean of students, MS Sivakumar, said they had received complaints from students and the vigilance officers had been apprised of the issues and told not to click photographs.

He said the charges did not reveal the whole picture, adding checks are conducted by ex-servicemen trained to deal with such issues.

Vigilance officers are the ones tasked to enforce hostel rules and check for violations. We dont know if we can call it harassment or enforcement, he told PTI.

A woman research scholar, who did not wish to be named, alleged that vigilance officials barged into rooms, pulled things out and called them names for their personal choices.

We are all adults...it is really demeaning to experience all this. We might have a lot of stuff that we do not want others to see. It need not even be prohibited things. It is a clear violation of our right to privacy and dignity, she said.

An informal report, a compilation of harassment faced by students on campus, initiated by the students last year, had alleged rampant moral policing by security personnel, non-academic staff, faculty and fellow students.

The survey had also said students were targeted for the kind of clothes they wore and public display of affection, among others.

A male post-graduate student, who resides in one of the 20 hostels, alleged the fines imposed for violation of rules were arbitrary and ranged from Rs 2,000 to Rs 20,000.

Students have no idea about the slabs and it has not been put up anywhere on the campus, he said.

A woman Ph D scholar alleged that vigilance teams took note of girl students visiting boys in their hostels and conducted checks even if they went there during permitted hours.

Hostel rules state that girl students are permitted to visit male college mates in their rooms only for academic purposes, provided they deposit their ID cards with the security staff there and sign in the visitors notebook.

However, Sivakumar said vigilance officers did not conduct checks in every room, but only random checks.

If a girl is found in a boys room, the officers just check if she is an IIT-M student. Besides, guidelines on fines applicable for violations are available with wardens, he said.

Suggesting specific rules for each section of students, Sivakumar said that students at IIT-M ranged from 17-year-olds to research scholars aged around 35. Perhaps the present rules seemed unreasonable to those in the older age bracket, he said.

It is tough to have one rule for undergraduates and another for Ph D scholars unless hostels are different. We are yet to be at that level to afford separate hostels for research scholars. When that happens, we will implement rules that are more targeted, he said. PTIuttara@tribuneindia.com

Yash Goyal

Our Correspondent

Pokhran, December 3

There is more to the desert district of Jaisalmer than meets the eye. This land of shifting sand dunes and thorny bushes is home to Indias nuclear test site Pokhran.

This is also the place where Bharatiya Janata Party hopes its Hindutva card will help it retain its two assembly seatsPokhran and Jaisalmer, both won in 2013 assembly elections.

Spread over 38,401 sq km, Jaisalmer is largest district in the state and the third largest in the country. But its extreme weather conditions ensure low population densityat 17 per sq km, it has the lowest population density in the state according to the 2011 census. Even now, in the beginning of December, as winter sinks its claws into other parts of the country, in Jaisalmer mercury soars to a warm 31 degrees Celsius.

Of the districts 6.70 lakh people, 4.19 lakh people are on the electoral rolls.

Electioneering is hard here, as it is in the neighbouring Barmer districtcandidates usually canvas within 15-20 km range of sparsely populated Dhanis (hamlet) in their SUVs to skirt the shifting sand.

Both Congress and the BJP have played the Hindu card to consolidate votes in the state. In his recent election speech in Alwar, BJPs star campaigner Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Congress of bullying the Supreme court in the Ayodhya dispute.

More recently, Congress president Rahul Gandhi claimed Modi didn't understand Hinduism.

"What is the essence of Hinduism? What does the Gita say? That knowledge is with everybody, knowledge is all around you. Every living being has knowledge. Our PM says he is a Hindu but he doesn't understand foundation of Hinduism. What kind of a Hindu is he?" Rahul Gandhi sad at an address to a business community in Udaipur.

To consolidate Hindu votes, the BJP chose to drop its sitting MLA Shaitan Singh to field a Hindu spiritual Pratap Puri in Pokhran.

Puri, whos born a Rajput, is a prominent mahant of Barmers Taratra Peeth who has a math at Pokhrans Naath-ji-ka-Ghoona that has sees thousands of followers.

Puri is fighting a keenly contested battle against Congress candidate Saleh Mohammed, son of the famous Ghazi Fakir, a spiritual leader. Followers of Sufi spiritual leader Peer of Pagaro, the Ghazi Fakir family has been politically influential in Jaisalmer district for decades.

Pokhran has 1.95 lakh voters48,000 of Muslims; 40,000 Rajputs; 26,000 SCs; and 12,000 ST, as well as OBC-Mali voters who could turn the tide.

Talking to The Tribune Saleh, who was at Ramdeora for public meetings, accused the BJP of playing the communal card. BJP should tell the voters why it denied sitting MLA Singh a ticket?

Issue of the effects of radiation from the 1998 Pokhran tests, such as cancer or physical disability, on the local population form a major political issue for Saleh, as do frequent drought and famine in the region.

Despite 15 deaths in 20 years, the government hasnt conducted a radiation survey, he said.

The region faces acute water crisis despite the IGNP canal flowing into the district.

One water tanker costs Rs 2,000 a day. A Public Health Centre has been built but remains non-functional. Higher education remains a distant dream, Saleh says.

Puri says he did not seek to contest the electionit was the public and fellow spiritual leaders who wanted him to do so.

I will do Rajniti ka shudhikaran (purification of politics). Theres no politics without Dharmaif there is, it would turn into Adharm. Barmer and Jaisalamer are our borders, and I will stand as a soldier, he said.

In his campaign speeches in the state, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Adityanath called Hindu God Hanuman Dalit, called upon the public to usher in Ramrajya in Rajasthan.

In the reserved seat of Jaisalmer, BJP replaced sitting MLA Chottu Singh with Sang Singh Bhati against Congressman Roopram Meghwal, an ex-chief engineer at PHED.

Jaisalmer, which has 48,000 Muslim; 60,000 Rajputs and 32,000 SC voters, has 2.25 lakh voters.

Barmer

BJP and the Congress are fighting a triangular battle with rebels in Barmers seven assembly seats.

A 2016 report by the Panchayati Raj Ministry projects the district as one of countrys 250 most backward.

Congress claims the delay in the Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltds refinery project in Barmer has led to losses to the exchequera claim Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje counters by saying that her government had saved Rs 40,000 crore after ordering a fresh assessment.

In 2017, HPCL and the Rajasthan government had inked a revised MoU of Rs 43,129 crore for a refinery that will produce BS-VI fuel.

Sitting MLA Manvendra Singh move from the BJP to the Congress two months ago has caused a dent in BJPs Rajput base. BJPs sitting MP Sona Ram Choudhary, Rajes Minister Amraram, MLA Gudamalanis Ladu Ram Vishnoi are facing the threat of rising anti-incumbency.vinaymishra188@gmail.com

Yash Goyal

Jodhpur, December 3

The gateway to Rajasthans sandy desert terrain, Jodhpur, is the most keenly watched Marwar where top leaders, including six present and five former ministers, are contesting 16 hot Assembly seats out of 30 that go to the polls on December 7. In the 2013 elections, the BJP had won 27 seats, while the Congress could bag just three.

Jodhpurs blue-eyed boy Ashok Gehlot, AICC general secretary and two-term former CM, is contesting the Sardarpura seat against BJPs Shambhu Singh Khetasar, chairman of Rajasthan State Seeds Corporation Ltd. (Cabinet rank), who lost the last polls by 18,478 votes.

Gehlot has been representing the seat for four consecutive terms (1998 to 2013). His dominance can be gauged from the fact that during the 2013 Modi wave, the Congress could win just one (Sardarpura) of the 10 Assembly seats in Jodhpur, which has 24.58 lakh voters.

Gehlot, who has the backing of OBC Mali community, accuses Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje of deliberately neglecting the Marwar region by not adopting Jodhpur, the second biggest city in the state, for smart city projects.

Khetasar, a Rajput leader, accuses Gehlot of not caring enough for his constituency. As an MLA, why did not he (Gehlot) not raise a single question in the Assembly? He was mostly absent from the House during the five years, alleges Khetasar during his door-to-door public outreach.

Local businessmen Kishnaram Kachhwaha and Vijay Singh Solanki feel if Gehlot is projected as the chief ministerial face, the Congress stands a chance to win at least 140 out of 200 seats in the state. The Sardarpura seat with 2.27 lakh voters is dominated by Mali community (50,000), followed by Rajput (35,000), Muslim (30,000), SC/ST (20,000), Jat (8,000) and others 20,000.

While the BJP is going all out to hold on to the nine of the 10 Jodhpur seats, the Congress is confident of wresting at least six.editorial@tribune.com

Buenos Aires, December 2

For the first time, India will host the annual G-20 summit in 2022, coinciding with the countrys 75th anniversary of Independence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the announcement at the closing ceremony of the 13th G-20 summit here in the Argentinian capital on Saturday. He thanked Italy for allowing India to play the host. Italy was to host the international forum of the worlds top 20 economies in 2022. The 14th edition will be held in Japan while Saudi Arabia will host the 15th.

G-20 members comprise Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the European Union, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the UK and the US. Collectively, the G-20 economies account for nearly 90 per cent of the gross world product, 80 per cent of world trade, two-thirds of the world population, and approximately half of the world land area.

During the G-20 summit, PM Modi noted that the grouping has completed 10 years and highlighted the cooperation among the members that restored growth and revival of growth post 2008 economic meltdown. He also spoke about the role of the G-20 in carrying through the 14th General Quota Review of the IMF; the role which the G-20 played in operationalising the BEPS (Base Erosion and Profit Shifting) which is related to international taxation and also the automatic exchange of information on tax matters, Indian Sherpa, Shaktikanta Das said.

The PM also highlighted the current challenges which the global economy, especially the emerging economies face.  PTIeditorial@tribune.com

KV Prasad

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 2

The first-ever formal meeting of political parties opposed to the BJP has been scheduled here for December 10 on the eve of the winter session of Parliament. The meeting also comes a day before votes for the five Assemblies will be counted.

Coordinated by TDP chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, the meeting of leaders belonging to the Congress, NCP, Left, SP, BSP, NC, JD(S) and Sharad Yadavs Loktantrik Janata Dal, among others, is the first major attempt to work on a plan ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

It is a preliminary meeting of leaders who will discuss how to take the idea of working together forward there could be talks on a common agenda, former TDP MP and point person K Rama Mohana Rao said.

While the SP-BSP tie-up in the Lok Sabha byelections showed that a combined Opposition can successfully challenge the BJP juggernaut, inherit contradictions continue to dog parties.

The BSP refused to be with the Congress in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, while the CPM is not part of the Mahakutami (grand alliance) in Telangana that includes the Congress and the CPI.

Efforts to have the meeting during November backfired after BSP chief Mayawati conveyed her inability to attend a political meeting and share dais with the Congress in the run-up to the Assembly polls.

In order to ensure maximum participation, the leaders  Naidu, Sitaram Yechury, Sharad Pawar, Ahmed Patel and Mamata Banerjee  farmed out among themselves tasks to coordinate with others. Chief Ministers of states where the non-BJP parties are in power are also expected to attend.

Naidu, who began parleys with leaders of parties opposed to the BJP by reaching out to them individually, ruled himself out as a possible PM candidate.

Stating that leaders of parties who were approached have a wealth of experience, Naidu said his task was cut out: development of Amravati, the new capital of Andhra Pradesh that he promises as another Singapore in the making.editorial@tribune.com

Jaipur, December 2

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today said Pakistan can seek Indias help if it cannot handle the fight against terrorism alone.

He asserted that there has not been any major terror-related incident in over four years of the Narendra Modi-led NDA government.

I want to ask the Pakistan Prime Minister (Imran Khan) that if in Afghanistan a fight can be carried out against terror and the Taliban with the help of the US, then Pakistan can seek help against terrorism from India if it feels that it cannot handle it alone, he said.

At a press conference here, he said Jammu and Kashmir was not an issue as it was an integral part of the country. The issue is of terrorism, and Pakistan can discuss it.

I do not want to claim that terrorism has stopped, but no major terrorist incident has happened in the last four-and-a-half years, he said.

Terrorism is confined to Kashmir where also the situation is improving, Rajnath Singh said, adding that panchayat polls in J&K are being conducted successfully.

Naxal-related incidents have come down by 50-60 per cent in the last four years and the problem will get eliminated in three to five years, he said.

Hitting back at Congress president Rahul Gandhi on his statement that surgical strikes were conducted during the UPA regime also, the Home Minister sought to know why it was kept a secret.

Why was the country not informed earlier? If our Army had shown its valour and strength, should this country not have any knowledge of this matter? Rajnath Singh asked.

Why was the attempt made to keep the valour and strength of the Army hidden? Whose fear was it? I want to have an answer to this question, the Home Minister said.  PTIeditorial@tribune.com

Paris, December 2

French President Emmanuel Macron led a crisis meeting today after anti-government protests in Paris that left 263 persons injured and a trail of widespread destruction around the capital.

Macron met the prime minister, interior minister and top security service officials at the presidential palace after flying in from the G20 Summit in Argentina.

Government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux said the Macron administration was considering imposing a state of emergency, but the matter was not discussed during the meeting. Griveaux said the president was open to dialogue, but would not reverse policy reforms.

They spoke about adapting security forces for future protests following the riots that broke out in Paris yesterday, said a presidential source.

Riot police were overwhelmed yesterday as protesters ran amok in posh neighbourhoods, torching dozens of cars, looting boutiques and smashing up luxury private homes and cafes in the worst disturbances the capital has seen since 1968.

The unrest poses the most formidable challenge yet to Macrons presidency, with the escalating violence and depth of public anger against his economic reforms catching the 40-year-old leader off-guard and battling to regain control.

Macron earlier visited the Arc de Triomphe, a monument to Frances war dead, and other scenes of violence where he paid tribute to the police but was also booed by sections of the crowd.

Police said 412 persons were arrested yesterday and 378 were still in custody. A total of 133 had been injured, including 23 security personnel who battled rioters for most of the day in some of the most famous parts of the capital.

A motorist died overnight after crashing a van into traffic which had built up due to a Yellow Vest demonstration in Arles, southern France, a local prosecutor said.

The Yellow Vest anti-government protests that have swept France over the last fortnight were sparked by a rise in taxes on diesel. Macron has so far refused to roll back taxes on fuel, which he says are needed to fund the countrys transition to a low-emission economy.  Agenciesvinaymishra188@gmail.com

New Delhi, December 3

In a punitive action, the Navy has encashed a bank guarantee of the Reliance Naval Engineering Ltd in the Rs 3,000-crore contract for five offshore patrol vessels due to long delays in their supply and said on Monday that the deal was being examined.

Punitive action has been taken against RNEL. The process is being taken forward, Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba said when asked about the huge delay in delivery of the vessels and whether Navy is under pressure to not initiate any action.

Admiral Lanba said the deal is not being cancelled at the moment, but added that it is being looked into, indicating that government may take a call on the issue.

The Navy Chief also said that the company was undergoing corporate debt restructuring. There was no immediate reaction from RNEL about the Navy Chiefs comments. Anil Ambanis Reliance Defence has been at the centre of a controversy over the Rs 58,000-crore Rafale jet fighter deal. The Congress has accused the government of favouring the company. The company as well as the government have rejected the charges.

The original contract for the five naval offshore patrol vessels (NOPVs) was won by Pipavav Defence and Offshore Engineering in 2011. The company was bought over by Anil Ambani group in 2016. Sources said the bank guarantee was 10 per cent of the size of the contract. The primary role of NOPVs is to undertake surveillance.  PTI

Under fireuttara@tribuneindia.com

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 3

The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Maharashtra government to place before it by December 8 the chargesheet filed against arrested activists in a Pune court in the Bhima-Koregaon violence case.

A three-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi told senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Maharashtra that it would like to see the charges against the accused and posted the matter for further hearing on December 11.

The Bench is seized of Maharashtra Governments appeal against a Bombay High Court order refusing to extend the 90-day time limit for filing of final report of investigation (charge sheet).

The top court has already stayed the High Courts order that set aside a subordinate lower courts order allowing extension of time to police to file its probe report against the activists. Earlier, it had refused to interfere with the arrest of five activists by the Maharashtra Police in connection with the Bhima-Koregaon violence case and dismissed a PIL seeking appointment of an SIT to probe into their arrest.

The Pune Police had arrested lawyer Surendra Gadling, Nagpur University professor Shoma Sen, Dalit activist Sudhir Dhawale, activist Mahesh Raut and Kerala native Rona Wilson in June for their alleged links with Maoists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

The arrests had followed raids at their residences and offices in connection with the Elgar Parishad conclave held in Pune on December 31 last year, which, the police had claimed, had led to violence at Bhima-Koregaon the next day.

On Monday, the Maharashtra government opposed the bail application of advocate Surendra Gadling and others arrested for alleged Maoist links, saying that the charges against them are very serious.

"It has become a fashion of the day to make hue and cry about personal liberty," Maharashtra Government said in an affidavit slamming activists. Fadanvis government said charges against accused Surendra Gadling and others were very serious and they cannot be granted bail due to technicality.rchopra@tribunemail.com

Ajay Banerjee

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 3

With Chinese warships regularly patrolling the Indian Ocean, the government has approved an expansion and upgrade plan for the Navy with 56 new ships and submarines.

Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba, while addressing a press conference on the eve of Navy Day here on Monday, said, The government has given approval to having 56 ships and submarines. Some of these will replace the existing fleet and include new ships like fleet ships, submarines and mine sweepers.

He said the construction plan would be spread across a decade. This is in addition to the 32 ships and submarines under construction, as of now.

Navy Day is observed on December 4 to mark the famous ship-launched attack on Karachi during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

Admiral Lanba said the attention of the entire world is focused on Indian Ocean region. We are the net security provider. We are committed to keeping the area clean of all traditional and non-traditional threats in the Indian Ocean.

On being asked about the naval preparedness for a simultaneous two-front war, the Admiral said, We have overwhelming superiority over Pakistan at sea. In case of China the balance of power in Indian Ocean

is in our favour. Similarly, the balance of power in South China Sea is in favour of China.

On the US assessment that China would be a big naval power by 2050, the Admiral said, By 2050 we will also have 200 ships, 500 aircraft and be a world-class navy.

He said the three chiefs had agreed on having a permanent Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (CoSC). On theatre commands, he said we needed a high defence organisation before we got to creating theatre commands. We need one operational commander, the three chiefs cannot be operational commands.

On being asked about the delay in taking action against Reliance Naval and Engineering Limited in supplying five offshore patrol vessels, the Admiral said there is no preferential treatment. The bank guarantees have been encashed. The OPV contract is being examined.

On the make in India efforts, he said as of now, in the past four years, 72 per cent of all contracts are given to India vendors.

On coastal security following the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the Admiral said a pilot project on to fit Automated Identification System (AIS) transponders on fishing boats had been successful. It will now be implemented across India. There are some 2.2 lakh fishing boats--under 20 metres in length--that do not have AIS transponders. The issue was to have low-cost transponders. I agree it has taken 10 years but soon we will have these transponders on

all fishing boats, he said.gspannu7@gmail.com

Satya Prakash

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 3

Almost a year after the Supreme Court set up a new Special Investigation Team to further investigate 186 cases relating to the 1984 anti-Sikh riot cases closed by police in Delhi, the SIT headed by former Delhi High Court judge SN Dhingra is still awaiting appointment of its third member.

The SIT was to submit its first report in August. But the government has not been able to find a suitable replacement for retired IPS officer Rajdeep Singhwho was to be a part of the SIT along with Justice Dhingra and serving IPS officer Abhishek Dularafter he refused to take up the assignment for personal reasons.

Almost 3,000 people were killed, most of them in Delhi, in the anti-Sikh riots that broke out following the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984.

Justice Dhingra  who heads the SITwas a trial judge when punishments were handed out in 1990s to the accused of the Trilokpuri massacre of 1984.

Kishori Lal, dubbed as the butcher of Trilokpuri, was among those sentenced by him.

On Monday, the Supreme Court was told that it may not be necessary to find Singhs substitute and the SIT can start probe with just two members.

Additional Solicitor General Pinky Anand told a Bench of Justice Madan B Lokur and Justice Deepak Gupta that the government had no objection if Justice Dhingra and Dular continued with their work without waiting for appointment of the third SIT member.

Since the January 11 order of setting up a three-member SIT was passed by a three-judge Bench, it cant be modified by a two-judge Bench, said Justice Lokur and posted it for hearing on Tuesday.

The Bench is seized of a petition by S Gurlad Singh Kahlona member of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee  seeking further probe into anti-Sikh riot cases in the national capital.

When the ASG suggested the name of retired IPS officer NR Wasan to substitute Singh, the Bench said, You cannot choose your own judge. Give two-three names, the Bench told the ASG, who said that the apex court could appoint anybody to substitute Singh.

Senior advocates RS Suri and HS Phoolka said appointing a third member in the SIT might delay the process and the other two members should continue with their work.

Anand agreed with the suggestion made by petitioners counsel that the other two SIT members should continue with the work.

After coming to power in 2014, the Narendra Modi government had set up an SIT headed by Pramod Asthana, an IPS officer of 1986 batch to re-investigation the 1984 anti-Sikh riot cases.

Rakesh Kapoor, a retired district and sessions judge and Kumar Gyanesh, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Delhi Police, were the other two members.

The top court had in January noted that the previous SIT headed by Asthana had not carried out further probe into these 186 cases in which closure reports were filed.

It had taken the decision after perusing the report of a two-judge supervisory panel comprising Justice JM Panchal and Justice KSP Radhakrishnan which scrutinised 241 cases relating to 1984 anti-Sikh riots in Delhi closed by an earlier SIT formed by the NDA government for re-investigation.

After perusing the supervisory panels report submitted on December 6 last year, the top court had made it clear that it would not reopen cases in which accused had been acquitted.

So far charge sheets have been filed only in a small number of cases taken up for further probe by the SIT.editorial@tribune.com

Parvesh Sharma

Tribune News Service

Sangrur, December 2

About 6,500 saplings have been destroyed in stubble fires during the last two months in the district.

The authorities of the Forest Department have asked the Agriculture Department to take action against farmers who resorted to stubble burning so as to prevent more losses in future and offered assistance in spreading awareness.

Sources said during the current financial year, the district Forest Department had planted 8 lakh saplings. But during a survey done after receiving complaints about damage to saplings planted during the recent months, the department found that stubble fires had burnt around 6,500 saplings near the national highway in the district. After identifying the areas where saplings were gutted, the Forest Department has prepared a report and decided to take up the matter with the Agriculture Department to prevent further losses in future.

The fire has damaged 6,500 saplings near the NHin the district. However, there is no loss to any tree at any other place. We succeeded in saving small trees on canals and link roads with the help of the residents of the area. I will take up the matter with the Agriculture Department, said Monika Yadav, Divisional Forest Officer, Sangrur.

However, farmers blamed the state and the Central governments for the same despite the fact that they put the stubble on fire.

We had to burn stubble as neither we had an alternative nor the government released money to manage stubble without burning, said Kultar Singh, a farmer from Phagguwala village.

Sangrur Chief Agriculture Officer Dr Baldev Singh said during the last two months, their teams had imposed a fine of Rs13 lakh on farmers for burning stubble.

But this year, we saw fewer stubble fires than the last year. With our efforts, farmers used happy seeders to sow paddy in 70,000 hectares out of 2.88 lakh hectares in comparison to the last year figure of 25,000 hectares. I will discuss the issue with the DFO, he added.editorial@tribune.com

Aman Sood

Tribune News Service

Patiala, December 2

Gursharan Singh, a farmer from Bhaini village in Ropar, is upset at the loss he has to suffer every season due to marauding monkeys, blue bulls and wild boars, who attack his standing crop.

The attacks have increased and so have the losses as the population of blue bulls and wild boars has gone up in the state. Punjab is one of the states that allow selective culling of wild boars and blue bulls if they enter village farms.

Farmers rue that the wild animals are damaging more crops than they actually eat. The sudden increase in their population is giving sleepless nights to the farmers having fields in the vicinity of wildlife sanctuaries. They allege that getting a licence to shoot these animals is a cumbersome process.

Gursharan Singh says he has to keep round-the-clock vigil to ensure the security of his crops. Gursharan is pinning hopes on a few Patiala-based hunters to help him get rid of uninvited guests. Many persons have injured or died due to attacks by wild animals. While snakes account for maximum casualties, wild boars are known to be aggressive towards humans, he says.

In June last year, the state government had announced that short-term permits for shooting animals would no longer require a panchayat resolution. The department had claimed to have eased the process for applying online or through WhatsApp message.

Balraj Ghumman, an experienced hunter, says the Whatsapp system never started and getting permits is still very tough. Most farmers are using live electricity wires to illegally electrocute animals to save their crops. It is a dangerous and insensitive method. The department should ease norms to legally shoot the untamed animals, he says. Every year, he is approached by numerous Kandi belt farmers, seeking help in getting rid of the menace.

Kuldip Kumar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, said they had tried to ensure relaxed norms for farmers seeking permits to shoot wild animals. We will make the procedure simpler so that farmers do not have to suffer financial losses. Those who want to apply for compensation for crop loss can also do so at their nearest forest department office, he said.editorial@tribune.com

Aparna Banerji

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, December 2

Two years after the Parliament passed the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, the state is yet to appoint an independent Commissioner for Disabilities, who is saddled with three other portfolios.

Commissioner for Disabilities Kumar Rahul is also the Secretary-cum-Director, Mining, and Secretary, Home Affairs, Justice and Jail. He was appointed in February. Before him, the post was vacant for several months.

Disability activists demand an independent Commissioner for Disabilities as they claim their grievances go unaddressed.

As per the 2011 Census, the state has 6.54 lakh persons with disabilities.

The state government is yet to notify policies to implement the 2016 Act.

Amarjit Singh Anand, a member of the Punjab State Advisory Board for Disabilities, said: The Commissioner is pre-occupied with other portfolios at the cost of the disability sector. Until the policies for the disabled are notified, the Act cant be implemented. The state needs an independent Commissioner for Disabilities for that.

He cited a few unaddressed issues: non-disbursal of pension for disabled persons for more than six months and no meetings of the advisory board ever since the Congress came to power. In the name of a meeting, the advisory board had organised an introductory session with disability activists, Anand said.

Disability activist Vivek Joshi said, I had sent repeated complaints to the Commissioner on harassment of disabled persons, but none was addressed. Every time we call, he is busy or in a meeting. I complained about disability students not allowed to appear for their exams and mistreatment meted out to me by Air India staff. This is not all. The 2011 Census data has not been revised.

Minister for Social Security Aruna Chaudhary said, Several officials have been sent to Chhattisgarh for the Assembly elections. Some of them will return on December 17, after which policy issues of the disability sector will be taken up. The state will get an independent Commissioner for Disability within a few months. This will be done before the code of conduct for the 2019 General Election is enforced. Anganwari workers will be deployed to collect data on persons with disabilities.

Commissioner for Disabilities Kumar Rahul dismissed the view that the additional portfolios were affecting his work. I have been regularly responding to grievances. As for students not allowed to take the exam, we did intervene, but we will look into the matter as to why the issue was not addressed. Other issues will be addressed once the policy is notified. The government is working on that.amansharma@tribunemail.com

Syed Ali Ahmed

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 3

The Shiromani Akali Dal Badal on Monday blamed the AAP government in Delhi over the issue of a missing file pertaning to the murder of 63 Sikhs during the 1984 riots.

The matter came to light when the Centres Special Investigation Team (SIT) demanded the file from the Delhi government. The SIT was constituted to investigate the riot cases.

Delhi SAD chief Manjit Singh GK said the SIT sought the records of many cases in connection with the 1984 riots cases. But the department concerned of the Delhi government has so far delayed giving the records of killing of 63 Sikhs in Kalyanpuri in East Delhi, GK said, adding the chairman of the SIT, Anurag had written a secret letter to the director of law department, Delhi, on March 29, 2017 in connection with the case. The letter was also forwarded to Delhi Police chief Amulya Patnaik and secretary to Union Home Ministry Praveen Kumar Shrivastav. But, GK said, so far no reply was given to the chairman by the Delhi government.

He added that in this case charge sheet was filed against 17 accused but during the hearing the names of only five were mentioned resulting in release of all the accused. Thereafter no appeal was filed in the session court by the Delhi government, GK claimed.

He said when the chairman of the SIT asked record of the case again, Japan Babu, an official of the law department, informed that FIR of the case is missing.ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Divya Sharma

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, December 2

Khalsa College is set to launch the second phase of digitisation of rare photographs, paintings and important documents at the Sikh History Research Centre on the campus.

Manuscripts and handwritten documents were digitised during the first phase. The second phase will focus on the digitisation of images related to Sikh heritage. These include photographs of heroes of the two World Wars, pictures of gurdwaras in Pakistan clicked in the 19th century, and paintings of Sikh warriors such as Hari Singh Nalwa. The museum displaying documents of historical importance, weapons, coins and historical artefacts is also being upgraded at the centre.

Established in 1930, the centre has documents available in languages such as Urdu, Persian and Sanskrit, besides over 6,000 books, old newspapers and magazines. The centre was recently shifted to a separate building, which is nearing completion.

We have a rare collection of manuscripts. The project is about saving our heritage for future generations. We will begin the second phase of digitisation in 2019, most probably in January. Currently, conservation and preservation work is going on, said Rajinder Mohan Singh Chhina, honorary secretary of the Khalsa College Governing Council.

The college authorities have also engaged a team of experts for the preservation process. It includes processing manuscripts with Japanese technology, for which a workshop was conducted last month by experts such as Mohammad Ali, former curator, Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad, and Sajjan Singh, convener, Sikh Heritage Foundation, Hyderabad.

It is a treasure trove of Sikh history and culture. Hundreds of students use the documents for research, said Principal Dr Mehal Singh, the overall incharge of the project.

Anyone can come and peruse the documents. We have our own database. However, the documents cannot be copied, said Kuldeep Singh, incharge, Sikh history and research department, Khalsa College.

On displayeditorial@tribune.com

Vishav Bharti

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 2

Students paying exorbitant fee for MBBS and BDS courses at private universities in Punjab can finally see a ray of hope as the state government is likely to amend a related legislation in the upcoming Vidhan Sabha session.

The Punjab Advocate General recently gave approval to amending the Punjab Private Health Sciences Education Institutions (Regulation of Admission, Fixation of Fee and Making Reservation) Act 2006, it is learnt. The amendment will enable the government to regulate the fee being charged by the private health sciences universities.

In his advice, the Legal Remembrancer said though the present Act  enacted much before private universities came into existence  had a provision to regulate the fee charged by private medical colleges, there was no reference to private health universities. Citing the Act, the universities would get favourable directions from the court and they not only fixed fee arbitrarily, but also prepared admission criteria that suited them the best.

Laying stress on bringing the universities under the amended Act, the Legal Remembrancer observed that there was no justification in having different sets of fee structure for private medical colleges and private universities when the courses they were offering were the same.

Sources said the Additional Chief Secretary (Health) has proposed to bring the amendment in the upcoming Cabinet meeting.

Medical Education and Research Minister Brahm Mohindra confirmed that after the Cabinet nod, the government would try to table the amendment Bill.

Before private universities came into existence, at least 50 per cent of the seats in private colleges were kept under government quota. The fee was decided by the government.gspannu7@gmail.com

Lahore, December 3

Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims.

The corridor will connect Sikh faiths founder Guru Nanak Devs final resting place in Pakistans Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjabs Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community.

Since the border crossing could be an easy target for terrorists, human traffickers and drug dealers, a strong mechanism was required to keep the situation under control on both sides of the border, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Deputy Director (Punjab) Mufakhar Adeel said.

The FIA has set up an immigration office at Kartarpur border in Narowal (some 120 kms from Lahore) in connection with the opening of Kartarpur corridor, Adeel told Dawn news.

The FIA officers will play the role of boarding officers and check the documents of Sikh pilgrims and identify them through biometric technology. Sikh pilgrims having visas will be allowed to enter the city while those with permits will be given access to Gurudwara Darbar Sahib only, he said.

On November 28, Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone of the Kartarpur corridor.

On November 26, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Sahib corridor in Gurdaspur.

Khan said that his government and the army wanted a civilised relationship with India, declaring that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step.

Khan cited examples of France and Germany which fought many wars but eventually came closer for the welfare of their people.

Pakistan assured that it will keep improving the Kartarpur corridor and provide maximum facilities to the pilgrims when they visit in November, 2019 to celebrate Guru Nanaks 550th birth anniversary.

The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistans Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Indias Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev.

The corridor is expected to be completed within six months.  PTIeditorial@tribune.com

Karam Prakash

Tribune News Service

Patiala, December 2

The differences within the Sanjha Adhyapak Morcha  an umbrella union of teachers  have come out in the open as two of its disgruntled unions held a massive show of strength at Mehmadpur grain market, 10 km from here, on Sunday.

The SSA-RMSA Teachers Union and Model Adarsh School Karamchari Association are miffed at the morchas decision to call off the strike on Saturday. The decision was taken after an assurance by Education Minister OP Soni to review the decision of regularisation at a reduced salary of Rs15,300.

The two unions are demanding regular jobs at the full pay scale.

The unions, along with the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), Ugrahan, started an indefinite strike at a new site (the grain market) on Sunday. They questioned the morcha on calling off the strike without any written assurance from the minister.

Dr Amritpal Singh Sidhu, president of the Model Adarsh School Karamchari Association, said: Even earlier, the Education Ministers announcements did not materialise. The Cabinet meeting is scheduled for Monday. The government should take steps to regularise jobs of teachers at the full pay scale.

A dissident leader, Didar Mudki, said: How can the morcha end the indefinite strike without any concrete in hand? Until there is a concrete action on the pay of teachers, the protest will continue.

The morcha, however, said it didnt know why the two unions went against its decision. Their protest is not under our banner. Going against the morcha is not a good decision, said Sanjha Adhyapak Morcha convener Davinder Singh Punia.

Sources say the Sanjha Morcha might expel the protesting unions.rchopra@tribunemail.com

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 3

Punjab Local Bodies Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu will meet Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh to sort out their differences over his recent statement.

Talking to media in Rajasthan on Monday, Sidhu said, You do not wash your dirty linen in public. I will sort out the issue with the Chief Minister.

Being on election tour, Sidhu is not attending Mondays cabinet meeting. But he would soon meet the CM to sort out the issue.

Sources said Punjab party affairs incharge Asha Kumari had intervened to prevent the matter from escalating. She is learnt to have talked to the Chief Minister and Sidhu and seen the controversial video clip.

A senior party leader after Sidhus statement said Amarinder loyalists had taken the fight to the streets. It is time for the party to take credit for opening of the Kartarpur corridor and not for its leaders to fight with one another much to the embarrassment of the party leadership, he added.

The controversy erupted when Sidhu in Hyderabad called Congress president Raul Gandhi his "captain" and Amarinder an "Army Captain". His remarks came a day after he returned from Pakistan after attending the ground-breaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor.rchopra@tribunemail.com

Ruchika M Khanna

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 3



The Punjab government will segregate foreign nationals held for drug trafficking from other Indian prisoners in various jails of the state.

This is because foreign nationals, lodged in jails for trafficking of drugs, are reportedly spreading their business from inside the jails.

Most of these foreigners, belonging to a single nationality, are in jails for peddling small quantities of drugs. Officials in the Jails department say they are making links inside the jails with gangsters lodged there, and then using them to spread the drug trade through the gangsters henchmen outside.

Some cases, where these foreigners are also tying up with other drug peddlers/addicts, lodged in jails, and then using the latters contacts to expand their drug business outside, have also come to light.

Sixty per cent of the people currently lodged in state jails have been booked for illicit drug possession or trafficking. Thus jails are proving to be a perfect place for these clandestine meetings.

We unearthed the nexus and have decided that not only will these foreign nationals be lodged in separate cells, but they will also have separate out time from the normal cells. The idea is to reduce interaction between these foreigners held for drug peddling and gangsters and other inmates lodged for being peddlers, Jails Minister Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa told The Tribune here on Monday. He said orders had been issued to the ADGP Jails to start the segregation of prisoners.

Information gathered by The Tribune shows that 158 of these foreigners, all of a single nationality, are under watch and will be lodged separately. While majority of them are lodged in the Patiala and Bathinda jails, almost all jails have these foreign nationals.

Cases have also been reported in recent times, where the contacts of these foreigners have met the undertrials going out for their case hearings, and tried to pass on the illicit drugs/prescription drugs to them.vinaymishra188@gmail.com

Medellin, December 2

Twenty-five years after he was gunned down by the police, Pablo Escobars legacy refuses to die in Medellin, the Colombian city where he ran his cocaine empire with a mix of brutality and largesse.

Even as city officials prepare to demolish the bunker-like mansion where the late drug lord lived, in the neighbourhood that bears his name residents who live in homes he built for them are planning heartfelt tributes to mark Sundays anniversary.

Escobar was killed in a rooftop shootout in Medellin on December 2, 1993, one day after his 44th birthday. His eight-story mansion, the Monaco, a symbol of the decadent opulence of the Colombian mafia in the 1980s and 90s, has fallen into disrepair in the years since his death.

The hulking white building is slated to be demolished in February, in a public implosion complete with stands for viewers to watch. The Monaco has become an anti-symbol, in a place where some people are outspoken defenders of crime and terrorism, says Manuel Villa, the city hall secretary who will perform the official countdown to the detonation.

The mansion, a top tourist attraction in Medellins upscale El Poblado neighbourhood, will be replaced by a public park dedicated to the thousands of people killed in Colombia by narcoterrorism.

It will be painful to tear it down, says Villa, but its the only way we can heal our wounds. Colombian society remains deeply divided over the legacy of Escobar and other drug barons.  AFPgspannu7@gmail.com

Dhaka, November 26

An anti-terrorism special tribunal in Bangladesh on Monday recorded the statement of first witness in the 2016 terror attack case, three years after the countrys deadliest attack killed 22 people, mostly foreigners, including an Indian national.

Militants of the banned Neo-Jamaatul Mujahideen Bangladesh (Neo-JMB) attacked the posh Holey Artisan restaurant in the Gulshan diplomatic enclave on July 1, 2016 in the Bangladesh capital.

Twenty-two peoplean Indian girl, nine Italians, seven Japanese and five Bangladeshis, including two police officerswere killed in the attack.

Police sub-inspector Ripon Kumar Das testified before the court as the first prosecution witness, being the complainant in the case, a court official said.

Six of the eight accused, who had earlier confessed to their involvement in the attack, appeared before the court on Monday amid heavy police security to face the trial. The other two accused are on the run, but were being tried in absentia.

All the accused belonged to the banned Neo-JMB.

The trial in the case began on November 26, when the court indicted them after reviewing the police charge sheet.

During investigations, it was found that 21 people were involved in the assault, but police said 13 of them died in subsequent anti-terrorism clampdown.

They said only five militants staged the carnage and all of them were killed on the July 2 in a raid by the military commandos.

The Neo-JMB, said to be inclined to Islamic State or IS, executed the carnage sparking an uproar globally and signalling the strong presence of militants in the Muslim-majority country.

The outfit emerged as the revived chapter of the radical Islamist group.

Counter terrorism unit chief of Bangladesh Police, Monirul Islam earlier said the police gathered 75 pieces of evidence for the trial and mobilised 211 witnesses to the carnage to testify before the court.

Investigators alleged that the militants staged the attack to announce their strong presence in the Muslim-majority Bangladesh and particularly show their brutality by killing foreigners and draw international attention.

They said since late 2015, the Neo-JMB militants, led by Bangladeshi-origin Canadian Tamim Chowdhury, killed in a subsequent security clampdown, were carrying out small scale attacks on foreigners and non-Muslims.

The victims of the Holey Artisan restaurant were found with their throats slit when the commandos and other security forces entered the scene.

Assailants gunned down two police officers and injured over 20 others when they approached the restaurant. PTIpardeepdhull@gmail.com

Washington/Beijing, December 3

China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs below the 40 percent level that Beijing is currently charging on US-made vehicles, US President Donald Trump said, as a trade war truce between the two countries gathers pace, cheering markets.

Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to halt new tariffs during talks in Argentina on Saturday, following months of escalating tensions on trade and other issues.

In a meeting lasting two and a half hours, the United States agreed not to raise tariffs further on January 1, while China agreed to purchase more agricultural products from US farmers immediately.

The two sides also agreed to begin discussions on how to resolve issues of concern, including intellectual property protection, non-tariff trade barriers and cyber theft.

But the White House also said the existing 10 per cent tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods would be lifted to 25 per cent if no deal was reached within 90 days, once again setting the clock ticking.

Tweeting on Sunday night, Trump said: China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the US Currently the tariff is 40%.

He gave no details, and there was no immediate response from the Chinese government. Neither country had mentioned auto tariffs in their official read-outs of the Trump-Xi meeting.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said last week he was examining all available tools to raise US tariffs on Chinese vehicles to the 40 per cent that China was charging on US-produced vehicles.

Chinese state media gave a cautious welcome on Monday to the trade war truce.

But in an editorial, the official China Daily warned that while the new consensus was a welcome development and gave both sides breathing space to resolve their differences, there was no magic wand that would allow the grievances to disappear immediately.

Given the complexity of interactions between the two economies, the rest of the world will still be holding its collective breath, it said.

Chinese shares, commodities and the yuan currency surged even as uncertainly remains about the deal.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite index rose 2.9 per cent and blue-chip shares surged 3.1 per cent.

Shares in Hong Kong also jumped, with the Hang Seng index adding 2.7 per cent.

Still, analysts cautioned the deal may have only bought some time for more wrangling over deeply divisive trade and policy differences, and said Chinas economy will continue to cool regardless under the weight of weakening domestic demand.

This is a relief rally, said Paul Kitney, chief equity strategist at Daiwa Capital Markets in Hong Kong.

The agreement is not a ceasefire, its just a de-escalation. The existing tariffs are still having a negative impact on the Chinese economy, they havent gone away.

Chinas factory activity grew slightly in November, a private survey showed on Monday, though new export orders extended their decline in a further blow to the sector already hurt by the Sino-US trade frictions.

Its 90 days. Its nothing and it doesnt really make any difference. People have already started to reconsider their sourcing arrangements, said Larry Sloven, who has been sourcing and manufacturing in China for three decades.

Nobody wants to live in a false reality. Widely read Chinese tabloid the Global Times, published by the ruling Communist Partys official Peoples Daily, warned people had to have realistic expectations.

The Chinese public needs to keep in mind that China-US trade negotiations fluctuate. Chinas reform and opening-ups broad perspective recognises that the rest of the world does things differently, it said in its editorial.

Differing accounts

There are also differences in the Chinese and US accounts of what was agreed.

The White House said China was open to approving the previously unapproved deal for US company Qualcomm Inc to acquire Netherlands-based NXP Semiconductors should it again be presented.

However, Qualcomm said in a statement that it considers the matter closed.

Chinese state media has made only scant mention of the Qualcomm issue, which was not addressed by the Chinese governments top diplomat at a news conference in Buenos Aires on Saturday night.

In July, Qualcomm - the worlds biggest smartphone-chip maker - walked away from a $44 billion deal to buy NXP after failing to secure Chinese regulatory approval, becoming a high-profile victim of the China-US trade dispute.

There was also caution from the US business community.

William Zarit, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, said the outcome of the meeting was as good as we could have expected considering the complex issues involved.

But probably the most challenging area to resolve  Chinas discriminatory economic policies based on state support and domestic market protectionism  needs to be addressed in order to level the playing field and have a sustainable commercial relationship based on fairness and reciprocal treatment. A senior official at Chinese energy giant CNOOC told Reuters that China was not likely to increase energy and industrial products purchases from the United States by a significant amount in 90 days unless there are mandatory instructions from government forcing companies to buy.

Trumps policy has been so unpredictable that Chinese companies are being very cautious on buying US commodities with or without tariffs. The risks are simply too big and companies have became more averse to risks now, the official added.

I am expecting the United States to increase tariffs on China after 90 days despite the efforts and goodwill from China. Reutersvinaymishra188@gmail.com

Katowice, December 2

Delegates from nearly 200 nations on Sunday began two weeks of talks to tackle deep political divisions at the most important UN meeting on global warming since the landmark 2015 Paris deal to shift away from fossil fuels.

Expectations are low that negotiations in Katowice, at the heart of Polands coal region, will be sufficient to address concerns laid out in reports over recent weeks on the severity of rising greenhouse gas emissions.

The political climate has also been transformed since the Paris agreement and the fragile global unity that brought about that accord has shattered.

Fijian PM Frank Bainimarama declared the UN conference open on Sunday and handed over the presidency of the talks to Michal Kurtyka, Polands deputy environment minster. We will all have to show creativity and flexibility, Kurtyka said.

Stoking the tensions, Brazil has gone back on an earlier promise to host next years UN climate conference.

The United States, meanwhile, reiterated at the G20 summit in Argentina on Saturday its decision to withdraw from the Paris accord and a US commitment to using all energy sources.

The other members of the group of industrialised nations -- including the biggest polluter, China -- reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the Paris deal, taking into account their national circumstances and relative capabilities.

The Katowice talks precede an end-of-year deadline to produce a rule book to flesh out the broad details that were agreed in Paris, aimed at limiting the rise in global temperatures to between 1.5 and 2 Celsius. To give the negotiations a better chance, the start of the Katowice talks was brought forward by a day.

Poland is hosting UN climate negotiations for a third time, but the nation remains hooked on coal, the most carbon-intensive fossil fuel. Coal provides about 80 per cent of Polands power and has been a major source of employment and national pride.

The younger generation is less emotionally attached to coal and is increasingly environmentally aware, though any phasing out of the fuel in Poland is likely to be slow.

The energy ministry said only last week that the country plans to invest in new coal capacity while its long-term energy strategy assumes it will still obtain about 60 percent of its power from coal in 2030.  Reuters

Key test for nationsgspannu7@gmail.com

Houston, December 3

President Donald Trumps Air Force One, which has been redesignated as Special Air Mission 41 in a special tribute to George HW Bush, arrived here to transport the body of the former president to Washington for a state funeral at National Cathedral on Wednesday.

Bush, the 41st president of the US who led America during the dramatic collapse of the Soviet Union and engineered the defeat of an audacious Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, died in Houston on Friday at the age of 94.

President Trump, who has announced a national day of mourning on Wednesday, said on Saturday that the Air Force One will bring the casket of Bush to Washington, describing it as a special tribute that the former president deserves very much.

By tradition, the aircraft is called Air Force One when the president is on board. President Trump is not travelling on the aircraft, so the plane has been redesignated as Special Air Mission 41 to honour Bush.

Air Force One has arrived in Houston for what will technically be called Special Air Mission 41 tomorrow and Wednesday. A beautiful day in Texasceiling and visibility unlimited, Mr. President, Jim McGrath, a spokesperson for the Bush family, tweeted.

McGrath also shared a photo of Bushs service dog Sully, lying in front of the presidents casket. The photo has been shared over 14,000 times as of Sunday night.

Bushonly the second president to see his son follow him to the Oval Officewill be honoured with four days of services and tributes in Washington and in Texas, where he will be buried on Thursday.

Bushs son Georgethe 43rd president of the United Statesand other loved ones are expected to travel on the presidential jet.

The former president will have two funeralsa state funeral at the National Cathedral and a local funeral at St. Martins Episcopal Church in Houston.

Officials also held what appeared to be a dry run for moving Bushs casket to Washington.

His body will lay in state at the Capitol Rotunda after an arrival ceremony on Monday. The public is invited and can pay their respects from Monday evening until Wednesday morning.

Bushs office said the state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral will be held on Wednesday morning.

The late presidents remains will then be returned to Houston on Wednesday. A public viewing will be held from Wednesday evening until Thursday morning followed by the funeral service at St. Martins Episcopal Church in Houston.

On Thursday, the presidents casket will be taken by train to College Station, Texas, accompanied by the Bush family members and close friends. A funeral procession will then travel on George Bush Drive toward the Bush Library complex.

According to sources in the White House, President Trump and first lady Melania would attend the funeral service in Houston on Thursday. Former presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and Jimmy Carter are also likely to attend the event.

The state funeral for the 41st president, whose death sparked tributes from around the world and across the political aisle, will be the first presidential funeral since Gerald Ford died in 2006.

Bush will be buried in Texas next to his wife, Barbara, and their daughter, Robin, who died in 1953.

President Bush was suffering from Parkinsons disease that forced him to use a wheelchair in recent years, and he had been in and out of hospitals in recent months as his health declined.

The decorated war pilot and former CIA chief was elected president on November 8, 1988. He was sworn in on January 20, 1989, and served until January 20, 1993. PTIvinaymishra188@gmail.com

Buenos Aires, December 2

Chinese President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump on Saturday agreed to suspend any new tariffs and take steps to address the trade disputes, which over the past few months had threatened to spill over into a trade war between the worlds two largest economies.

At their highly successful dinner meeting on the sidelines of the annual G-20 Summit here, Trump agreed not to bring in any new import tariffs on Chinese products, while Xi agreed to purchase a very substantial amount of US products so as to reduce the trade deficit between the two countries.

During the meeting, Trump agreed that on January 1, 2019, he will leave the tariffs on $200 billion worth of product at the 10 per cent rate, and not raise it to 25 per cent at this time.

This was an amazing and productive meeting with unlimited possibilities for both the US and China. It is my great honour to be working with President Xi, Trump said in a statement released by the White House after the dinner talks between the two leaders.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders described it as a highly successful meeting between the two leaders and their most senior representatives in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Very importantly, President Xi, in a wonderful humanitarian gesture, has agreed to designate Fentanyl as a Controlled Substance, meaning that people selling Fentanyl to the United States will be subject to Chinas maximum penalty under the law, she said.

She also said that an increase of tariffs from 10 to 25 per cent due to kick in on January 1 would now be put on hold, providing room for negotiations.

China will agree to purchase a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial, amount of agricultural, energy, industrial, and other product from the United States to reduce the trade imbalance between our two countries. China has agreed to start purchasing agricultural product from our farmers immediately, Sanders said.

Trump and Xi also agreed to immediately begin negotiations on structural changes with respect to forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and cyber theft, services and agriculture.

Both parties agree that they will endeavour to have this transaction completed within the next 90 days. If at the end of this period of time, the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the 10 per cent tariffs will be raised to 25 per cent, Sanders said.  PTI

G20: No concrete promisespardeepdhull@gmail.com

Islamabad, December 3

US President Donald Trump has written a letter to Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan asking for the South Asian nation to help with Afghan peace talks, Pakistani Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said on Monday.

President Trump has written a letter. He has asked for Pakistans cooperation to bring the Taliban into talks, Chaudhry said. Reutersrchopra@tribunemail.com

Seoul, December 3

South Koreas President says US President Donald Trump told him he had a very friendly view of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and wanted to grant his wishes if he denuclearised.

North Korea has sought security guarantees from the US and relief from international sanctions.

President Moon Jae-ins office quoted Moon as saying that Trump asked him to convey those messages to the North Korean leader if he visited Seoul this year as he promised.

Moon spoke to reporters on Saturday aboard his presidential plane en route to New Zealand from Argentina, where he met Trump on the sidelines of a Group of 20 Nations summit.

President Trump asked me to forward to (Kim) these messages; he has a very friendly view of Chairman Kim Jong Un and likes him. He hopes to fully carry out the remaining agreements (from their June summit in Singapore) together with him so that he will make Chairman Kim Jong Un get what he wants, Moon said.

Moon said he and Trump agreed during their meeting that Kims trip to Seoul would play a very positive role in US-North Korea nuclear diplomacy.

Moon said its still unclear whether Kim would visit Seoul by the end of this year, and that its up to the North Korean leader.

Moon, who has facilitated a series of high-level talks between the United States and North Korea, including the Trump-Kim summit, has met Kim three times this year.

After their third meeting in Pyongyang, North Koreas capital, in September, Moon said Kim agreed to make a reciprocal visit to Seoul this year.

Their two previous summits were held at the countries shared border village of Panmunjom.

If Kim, a third-generation hereditary ruler, visits Seoul, he would be the first North Korean leader do so since the end of the 1950-53 Korean War.

Two previous South Korean presidents visited Pyongyang to meet Kims late father, Kim Jong Il.

After sharply raising tensions with nuclear and missile tests last year, Kim Jong Un abruptly reached out to Moon and Trump with a vague nuclear disarmament pledge.

Subsequent nuclear diplomacy hasnt made headway since the US-North Korea summit in June.

Trump said on Air Force One while returning to Washington from Argentina that his next meeting with Kim Jong Un would likely happen in January or February. He said there were three sites under consideration, but declined to name them. APAs Trinidad and Tobago recorded its highest Covid-19 death rate of 31 yesterday, Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley again appealed to the population to act now and get vaccinated.

In his highly anticipated address to the nation last night, which lasted 45 minutes, the Prime Minister warned that the parallel healthcare system is under immense pressure, and the time may come when drastic decisions would have to be taken. As with any emergency response, as the demand on healthcare resources increases, we may have no choice but to redirect our efforts from providing the highest level of care to a few, to providing the greatest good for the greatest number of persons. This is the reality that we face, he said.Melbourne to Alice tour group and itinerary tips - help!

Melbourne to Alice tour group and itinerary tips - help!

Hi all,

I'm writing this bc I CAN'T DECIDE A TOUR GROUP AND ITINERARY!

I'm thinking of joining a tour group staring from Melbourne and finishing at Alice Springs, bc I want to explore the Great Ocean Road, Coober Pedy and Uluru altogether. Also, I'm traveling alone and I don't think going on a road trip by myself would be a good idea.

As I found, most of the companies offer tours only between Adelaide to Alice. I found one that offers what I want, named as Peterpan tours, the review says their experiences with them are terrible.

So my questions are:

1. Should I just book whatever company that offers Melbourne to Alice?

2. Or should I book separate tours from Melbourne to Adelaide and Adelaide to Alice?

3. Or should I do a one day tour for Great Ocean Road from Melbourne, and fly or take a bus to Adelaide, and then join a tour group to Alice from there?

I can't decide!! Please give me any advice.

p.s FYI, I'll be flying to Gold Coast and go to Byron Bay after the Alice tour.

Thank you.Hi,

We hired a poweredboat (bareboating) for a week in April this year, from Airlie. As others say the amount of time you wish to sail for really depends on you. As you are a sailer I would think around the 10 day mark would be good.

Weather was good for the duration of our trip, but again as mentioned this obviously can change.

In regards to spending a few days at 1 spot, I beleive you can only do this if you anchor. There are moorings in most bays, sheltered area, though you can only moor for 2 hours between 7am and 2pm ,so the earliest you can moore at one place for the night is 2pm and must leave in the morning (latest 9am). I guess this rule is set so people dont moor for days and leave no moorings for others in popular areas (as they are limited)

You can easily sail short distances from 1 spot to another, then go back to your preffered spot at 2pm if you choose.

Plenty of beautiful places to explore and snorkel.

A good book for this area is "100 magic miles"

I have put a link on for to show where the public mooring are and rules to follow

I am sure you will have a fantastic time

All the bestfor your journeyVisa for 33 days? And how to get around, and what to see?

Visa for 33 days? And how to get around, and what to see?

Hi everyone!

I have some questions about Vietnam visa, public transport, and sight-seeings. I would appreciate anyone would help answering these questions:

1) Is it easy to go around by yourself, with the busses and trains?

- And where or how, do i book the tickets the easiest way?

My plan is to start in Hanoi, then go to Sapa, Halong Bay, (Mai Chau), Ninh Binh and then i was thinking to take the train for Hue / Dalat / Da Nang arena. Ending destination is Ho Chi Minh - and i have god 4 weeks. Any knowledge about how to move from place to place is much appreciated.

2) I am travelling 33 days - but i will probably leave Vietnam for 3-4 days during the 33 days. I am a bit confused with the VISA rulles.

Can I just Buy a single 30 days visa - and then i have up to 15 days when going back info the country? As far as i can tell up to 15 days stay does not require visa in Vietnam, at least for Danish citizens.

3) How or more likely where do i get the cheapest sightseeings? Do i just wait and buy from the Street, or do i book through internet, like tripadvisor suggestions on Companys n tours. And still there...its hard to find out what is inclusive, and a nice deal - and there are sooo many Companys to choose from!

Kind regards, SineMy understanding is that you will not be able to enter Vietnam by train via Dong Dang. I'm not sure they will even allow you on the train from Nanning since they check your Vietnamese visa status there.

Here's a report of someone trying to exit visa Dong Dang and having a bad time:

Either get a 'proper' visa in Nanning (but expect to be kept waiting a few days while it is 'processed') or just get the bus since Huu Nghi IS accepted for E-Visas.Yes, the 14 day J Pass does not pay off for just a round trip to Osaka from Tokyo, unless you round trip Hiroshima from Osaka. So, you should just buy standard JR tickets from Tokyo to Nagoya, Nagoya to Osaka, and Osaka to Tokyo with Shinkansen Limited Express tickets.

You should understand that it's our crazy New Year Holidays from Dec. 29 to Jan. 3, when huge numbers of people return to their home town to cerebrate the New Year wit their parents, relatives, or old friends, thus many long distance JR trains are crowded very much.

Especially, Tokaido Shinkansens from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka on Dec. 29, 30 are fully booked at exactly 10am Japan Time one month before online in @10-15 min., so you cannot move from Nagoya to Osaka by the Shinkansen on Dec. 29. People not only have to stand in the non-reserved seats cars, but also are packed like sardines in a can, so cannot even go to the toilets in the trains FOR HOURS!! Similarly, Tokaido Shinkansens from Shin-Osaka to Tokyo on Jan. 2 and 3 are heavily packed, since most Japanese return to their home on Jan. 2 or 3, because they start working from Jan. 4. So, you cannot return Tokyo on Jan. 3.

Please return Tokyo on Jan. 1 or 4, or take an air flight from Osaka Airport to Haneda Airport!!Some help and advice please for upcoming trip in Jan

Some help and advice please for upcoming trip in Jan

Hello,

I am currently planning our family trip to Japan (3 adults and 1 child) in January and have a few questions that I would appreciate some help with please. My planned itinerary is as follows:

13-17/1 - Tokyo, with a day trip to Hakone if the weather is good. Will buy the Hakone Free Pass as we want to do the classic round course using all the different transportation available in Hakone.

18/1 - Tokyo - Kyoto

19/1 - Kyoto

20/1 - Kyoto - Himeji - Osaka - Kyoto

21/1 - Kyoto - Universal Studio Japan - Kyoto

22/1 - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka (Dotomburi) - Kyoto

23/1 - Kyoto - Hiroshima

24/1 - Hiroshima - Kansai Airport Hotel

25/1 - Departure from KIX early morning

Q1). Does the above itinerary look OK?

Q2). Is January a good time to go to Hakone? Will it be too cold / misty to see Mt. Fuji?

Q3). To save some money (and because we are buying the Hakone Free Pass), I am thinking maybe we dont buy the JR 7-day Rail Pass but get the 5-day Kansai Hiroshima area Pass instead, and use the special fare currently on promotion via jrtours on Kodama Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto ( ) as it seems much cheaper.

- Has anyone used this before and is this a good idea?

- According to the website, i am only able to buy the tickets the day before travel. Will we definitely be able to get seats?

- I would like us to leave Tokyo early in the morning (6.56am) for Kyoto before the rush hour, but I am unable to find a corresponding time as what I am able to find on Hyperdia on the jrtours website.

- There is no email address on the site for me to send a query to. Any help would be greatly

Q4). Lastly, if I do decide to buy the 5-day Kansai Hiroshima area Pass instead, can we travel on the Hello Kitty Shinkansen from Shin Osaka to Himeji using this pass?

Thank you very much for your help in advance.Hi ALL!

I am planning a solo trip to Japan & South Korea for May of 2019. I have a couple questions that i would love some help with if possible.

1. How safe are these spots for a solo traveler?

2. Is this a good time to visit?

3. Would it be too hard to do 3 days Tokyo, 2 days Kyoto, 2 days Osaka, 2 days Busan, 3 days Seoul?

3. Is it better to fly into South Korea or Japan?

Thank you and hope to hear your responses soon!I'm interested in a flight that has a 17 hr long layover in Nadi. My understanding is that for layovers longer than 6 hrs, one is permitted to leave the airport. I'd like to go snorkeling for a few hours, and from other forums it seems like Malolo island would be a good place to go. Another non-snorkeling option would be to go hiking (and swimming if possible in Koroyanitu Nat park...which I havent' look into yet.

Questions:

1. Is it possible to access any of the good beaches (for snorkeling or swimming) on Malolo without being a guest at any of the resorts?

2. This would be towards the end of Jan 2019...decent time to go to the beach there?

3. Other recommendations (for beaches and about Koroyanitu) are very welcome!! I'm hoping to enjoy a little bit of Fiji without traveling more than 1 - 1.5 hrs from the airport. As it is it seems like the 1.5 hr travel time to and from Nadi to Malolo may be too much.

Thanks so much!- Orengo is confident Uhuru will endorse Raila for the 2022 presidential race

- The Senator was also adamant the country will experience a referendum

- Uhuru is set to launch several projects in Nyanza in December 14

Siaya Senator James Orengo expects President Uhuru Kenyatta to endorse ODM party leader Raila Odinga for the 2022 presidential race.

Orengo as speaking in Siaya County on Sunday, December 2 where he divulged that Uhuru already had a potential successor in mind even as the 2022 race continues to hot up.

Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens

The Siaya Senator is confident Raila will be endorsed by Uhuru during the president's tour

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Kenyans should be ready for a referendum before 2022 - Raila Odinga

At the end of the day, were saying that the leadership of Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Amolo Odinga is going to produce the next President of the Republic of Kenya, he said

His remarks came as excited continued to mount in the Nyanza region ahead of an anticipated visit by the President for the first time since he was sworn in.

A number of Nyanza-based leaders have already called on calm among supporters as Uhuru gears up to visit the region on December 13.

The country's political landscape has changed drastically since the handshake

Source: UGC

READ ALSO: Raila has not stopped me from seeking 2022 presidency - Joho

Im glad when President Uhuru Kenyatta was saying hes going to surprise people in Jubilee as to who is going to be the next President of the Republic of Kenya, he was saying that knowing that (William) Ruto is the Deputy President and that surprise, according to us, practically and for all reasons, is Raila Amolo Odinga. Orengo added.

One year into Uhurus term and political alliances have already began to take shape, with the next presidential race tipped to be a two-horse duel between Raila Odinga and current Deputy President William Ruto.

READ ALSO: ODM MP claims Raila will face William Ruto in 2022

This is despite the fact that Raila has on several occasions reiterated he has hung up his political boots but majority of supporters and ODM-allied leaders feel like 2022 might be his best shot at the top job.

Uhurus main agenda in his tours to Nyanza will be to oversee the launch of several projects, and Orengo us confident the president will issue an assurance of supporting Raila in 2022.

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

KNEC chairman declares student pregnancy a pandemic in Kenya| Tuko TV:

Source: Tuko.co.ke- Raila faulted MPs push for massive allowances and benefits

- In a statement, the former premier said MPs should consider the massive debt of the country

- Raila further argued the common mwananchi were wallowing in poverty and therefore it was not right for MPs to demand for higher pay

Opposition leader Raila Odinga has called out members of parliament over their aggressive attempts to have their salaries increased.

Raila, through a statement seen by TUKO.co.ke, termed the move by MPs as one that was promoting impunity and grand larceny.

Send 'NEWS' to 40227 to receive all the important breaking news as it happens

MPs want among other things, car and house allowances

Source: Twitter

READ ALSO: Uhuru Kenyatta scolds MPs after they demanded rent-free houses, cars

As TUKO.co.ke reported, The Parliamentary Service Bill is currently before the National Assembly and it seeks to hand power to the Parliamentary Service Commission to be able to handle MPs welfare including their benefits.

Part of the demands by legislators include house allowance, four-wheel drive cars which is fueled and maintained by the taxpayer among other benefits.

All this, according to Raila, was unacceptable mainly because the only casualty in all the benefits would be the ordinary Kenyan.

READ ALSO: Nairobians tear into Mike Sonko following order locking PSVs out of CBD

He (Odinga) therefore finds the Parliamentary Service Commission Bill a case of Grand Larceny and an anti-people and insensitive demand that should be disowned and rejected as inappropriate and unacceptable to a great majority of Kenyans if not all, at this time, reads the statement sent by Mr. Odingas spokesperson Dennis Onyango.

Raila further reiterated that with the huge debt facing the Jubilee government, the last thing the country needed was leaders pushing for benefits at the expense of taxpayers.

Mr. Odinga is appealing to members of parliament to appreciate that the country is struggling with huge debts that cut through the broad spectrum of our economy and deficits strangling specific critical sectors. The statement went on.

If the current borrowing trend goes on in the country, Kenyan's public debt is likely to hit KSh 7 trillion by 2022 when President Uhuru Kenyatta's 10-year reign comes to its end.

Railas statement comes at the back of a similar one from President Uhuru Kenyatta who on November 22 aid the lawmakers must first make sure citizens have a good life before they pay themselves millions.

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KNEC chairman declares student pregnancy a pandemic in Kenya| Tuko TV:

Source: Tuko- The DP said he was in Italy to pursue avenues of collaboration in areas of agriculture and trade

- He was also on a mission to explore new markets for Kenya's agricultural produce

- Ruto has been urging local farmers to start diversifying by growing a variety of crops

- The DP urged maize farmers to stop lamenting and venture into farming alternative crops

Deputy President William Ruto has been spotted in Rome, Italy, touring daily farms and speaking to Italians about their farming business days after he urged disgruntled Kenya farmers to learn how to diversify instead of lamenting.

The DP is understood to be in Rome to pursue avenues of collaboration in areas of agriculture, trade and to explore new markets for Kenya's agricultural produce such as coffee and tea.

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READ ALSO: William Ruto insists maize farmers need to diversify, stop lamenting

Deputy President William Ruto and an Italian farmer touring a daily farm at the Maccarese Farm in Rome. Photo:William Ruto.

Source: Twitter

READ ALSO: William Ruto urges maize, cane farmers to think alternative crops to improve lives

The benchmarking mission, TUKO.co.ke gathered, was also meant to help Kenya gain insights on best practices in agriculture and ways to improve food security.

"In Rome, Italy to gain insights on best practices in leveraging agro processing, value addition, especially in dairy sector to achieve food security," he tweeted on Sunday, December 2.

READ ALSO: Avocado farming to create next millionaires - Raila Odinga

According to the DP, placing value in modern agriculture will enhance production, ensure quality assurance, promote diversification and accelerate food and nutrition security.

"Tapping into emerging markets will make farming a lucrative venture while boosting the country's GDP," he said.

READ ALSO: Rebel Jubilee MPs claim Ruto is growing 500,000 acres of maize in Congo

Ruto cited the mechanised daily farming at the Maccarese Farm in Rome as one of the best practices that local dairy farmers could borrow to not only improve their produce but also grow their farming business rapidly.

"Impressed with the intensive, mechanised dairy farming at the Maccarese Farm in Rome that produces 50,000 litres of milk per day from 1,250 cows and generates 40 KW of power daily from animal waste," he said.

READ ALSO: Section of Rift Valley MPs want William Ruto investigated over maize scandal

The DP has been urging Kenyan farmers to start thinking about alternative crops other than maize in order to grow the economy.

Speaking to the local farmers during the Nakuru International Investment Conference in Naivasha on November 30, 2018, Ruto lashed out at a section of Rift Valley politicians and farmers who were opposing the diversification calls.

He reiterated it was time the farmers tried other crops such as avocado to put an end to perennial lamentations, which have become synonymous with maize farming in the recent times.

I heard some people say the other day that they are not interested in diversification because you cannot put avocados in a store or you cannot feed avocados on initiates. People are producing for markets to export while others are thinking of how to produce to go and put in a store. That is how low some people think in our country," he said.

Some of the politicians had accused the DP of trying to persuade the local farmers to abandon maize farming to create shortage of the product so that he could import maize.

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Small Business Ideas for Kenyans With Low Investment - On Tuko TV

Source: Kenya Breaking News Today- Sakaja said the ban was premature because commuters were not given alternative means of transport

- He demanded the ban be suspended without delay until proper planning is done

- City Hall had ordered the PSVs to exit the city centre to the newly designated termini

- The county government said it had created 11 new termini outside the CBD for the matatus

- The PSV operators, however, warned the ban would cause chaos and confusion in the city

- They claimed the termini outside the CBD were not enough to accommodate all of them

Governor Mike Sonko's decision to eject matatus from Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD) has sparked angry reactions from city dwellers, some of whom were on Monday, November 3, forced to trek to their places of work.

The ban also angered Nairobi senator, Johnson Sakaja, who strongly warned against it but was evidently ignored by the county chief.

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READ ALSO: Showdown looms as matatu operators insist on operating within Nairobi's CBD despite ban

Nairobi senator, Johnson Sakaja, (pictured) has faulted Governor Mike Sonko's matatu ban terming it unfair and premature and demanded that it be suspended immediately.

Source: UGC

READ ALSO: Sonko's ban on PSVs from Nairobi CBD to kick off on Monday

The senator took to his Twitter page to express his disappointment at the decision saying it was making the ordinary citizens suffer because there was no proper planning.

"As I said yesterday and before, the move by Mike Sonko to ban matatus from the CBD is premature, and unfair to ordinary citizens. You dont ban matatus before providing alternatives for commuters. It must be rescinded immediately and proper planning done," he said.

READ ALSO: Mike Sonko bows to pressure from matatu operators, suspends ban on their access to CBD

TUKO.co.ke understands Sakaja proceeded to file a petition in court seeking to revoke the matatu ban after his advice landed on deaf ears.

In his petition, the senator cited lack of public participation and alternative means of transport as the reason why the ban must be suspended.

Sakaja's concern was shared by several other residents of Nairobi who also felt the PSV ban was untimely and caused unnecessary inconvenience to city commuters.

Below are some of the reactions compiled by TUKO.co.ke on Monday morning moments after the ban took effect:

READ ALSO: Matatus to be banned from Nairobi CBD and TUKO.co.ke has the details

The now controversial ban took effect on Monday after City Hall issued a notice ordering the PSVs to exit the CBD and relocate to the newly assigned termini.

Traffic marshals were deployed to block the matatus from accessing the city centre.

Most commuters were left confused and stranded as they could not figure out where the new termini were located, forcing some of them to either trek to their destinations or seek alternative means of transport.

Many walked to work due to lack of matatus within the city centre and at the popular termini where most of the PSVs usually picked and dropped passengers.

READ ALSO: Nairobi's new look as Sonko's regime implements new system to lock matatus from CBD

This is the second time Sonko is trying to force matatus out of the CBD.

The first time the governor tried to decongest the city was in September 2018 when he ordered the matatus to leave the CBD only to be met with court injunctions from the key industry players.

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Kenyans React To Reinforcement of Michuki Rules - On Tuko TV

Source: Tuko News- City Hall ordered the PSVs to exit the city centre to the newly designated termini

- Several city residents were forced to walk to for long distances on Monday, December 3

- The county boss apologised to the commuters telling them the situation would improve

- Sonko also asked city residents to support the move as the plan was meant for the better

Flamboyant Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has apologised to city residents over the ban of matatus from the Central Business District (CBD) telling them the situation will improve as the county has a plan in place.

The county chief said the ban was effected for the best interest of the citizens and it was not meant to punish them and called on the residents to support the plan.

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READ ALSO: Angry Kenyans lash out at Sonko after commuters are forced to walk over matatu CBD ban

Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko says the situation will improve with time, asks Kenyans to support the plan. Photo: UGC

Source: UGC

READ ALSO: Moses Kuria claims Sonko biggest impediment to ending Nairobi's transport woes

Speaking during a meeting with the Senate Public Accounts and Investment Committee (CPAIC) and responding to Senator Moses Kajwang who apologised for being late due to traffic snarl ups in the city, Sonko said his administration had an elaborate plan to deal with the congestion.

"We know our people are suffering and we don't intend to punish our voters but any good thing is painful. We have invested heavily in the transport sector especially on terminus such as Ngara and the situation will improve with time," the governor said.

The county chief said the walk in the city would help a majority of Kenyans to keep themselves physically fit as they rarely go to the gym.

"From Muthurwa to the CBD is a one minute walk. Many people dont go to the gym. We want our people to exercise, said Sonko.

READ ALSO: Nairobians walk to work as City Hall blocks matatus from entering CBD

Sonko further said he had spoken with President Uhuru Kenyatta and plans were underway to avail buses that will save the physically challenged commuters the pain of moving from one terminus to another.

"In the morning, I spoke to the president we are looking for the big buses from NYS to transport the physically challenged from their stages to the CBD," he added.

Hundreds of Nairobians were forced to walk on Monday, December 3, after the county implemented the controversial ban of matatus from the CBD.

A majority of commuters who walked to the city centre called on the governor to review the new policy as it was affecting them greatly.

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KNEC chairman declares student pregnancy a pandemic in Kenya| Tuko TV

Source: Tuko Breaking News LatestAssistant Director of Public Prosecutions(DPP) Joseph Riungu has put Crayfish Camp resort, Navaisha on the spot after his seven-year-old son was mauled by five dogs during an excursion.

Joseph claims his son who was on a school trip was attacked by the dogs as he and his friends were walking back to their rooms at around 6pm on November, 28 2018.

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READ ALSO: 21 matatu Saccos sue Mike Sonko over CBD ban

Joseph claims his son who was on a school trip was attacked by the dogs as he and his friends were walking back to their rooms at around 6pm on November, 28 2018.

Source: Original

READ ALSO: Case against rogue KCSE candidates caught on camera insulting Matiang'i withdrawn

TUKO.co.ke understands three German Shepherds and two other dogs attacked his boy before he arrived at his room.

"My son was walking back to the rooms to pick his clothes at around 6pm. He was in the company of his friends when the dogs pounced on him. They were three large German Shepherd dogs and two others, "Joseph opened up.

READ ALSO: More pain for Nairobi commuters after court declines to suspend matatu ban

TUKO.co.ke understands three German Shepherds and two other dogs attacked his boy before he arrived at his room.

Source: Original

The assistant DPP further explained no apology was made by the hotel's administration.

"They have not apologised over the incident neither have they reached out to me. They have even refused to take responsibility claiming the dogs were friendly," he explained.

The boy who is a pupil at Marion Preparatory School was admitted at MP Shah Hospital where he is currently receiving treatment.

Joseph recorded a statement at Kongoni Police Station, Navaisha.

The Directorate of Criminal investigations took up the issue and is carrying out investigations.

The hotel management through Jimmy Mehta described the incident as just an accident.

"This is an isolated incident as it has never happened before. We are very sorry about what happened. There is nothing to hide as we have always had dogs here," he said.

Mehta further claimed contrary to reports, the management took the child to a local hospital for treatment.

"We took the child to Kimilili hospital and we got in touch with the parents immediately after the attack but instead of coming to the hotel, they rushed to Nairobi," he said.

The management also stated it would soon reach out to the boy's parents as it understands the genesis of their anger.

Story done by Zipporah Weru, Nairobi correspondent.

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Meet Nandy-The African princess| Tuko TV

Source: Tuko Breaking NewsOne of the jobs that has been made very difficult with the advent of COVID-19 is that of teachers.

They have been forced to adapt to the virtual world in order to ensure the success of future generations.Almaty Arena in Kazakhstan will host the UEFA Futsal Champions League finals in April.

The decision was made by the UEFA Executive Committee, meeting in Dublin on Monday, with Kairat Almaty acting as hosts for a record third time in the first season of the rebranded competition. In the knockout event in late April, the hosts will be joined by Inter FS along with the team the holders beat in the last two finals under the former UEFA Futsal Cup branding, Sporting CP, plus Kairat's fellow two-time winners Barca.

2017 in Almaty: Inter beat Kairat in thriller

Kairat previously staged the finals at Almaty Arena in 2017, when Inter overcame Kairat in the last four and Sporting in the decider, with an aggregate crowd of more than 28,000 watching the four matches. Almaty's Baluan Sholak Sport Palace was the venue in 2011, Sporting edging Kairat 3-2 in the semis, only to lose to Montesilvano of Italy in the final.

Other hosts since the introduction of the four-team finals have been Murcia (2007), Moscow (2008), Ekaterinburg (2009), Lisbon (2010 and 2015), Lleida (2012), Tbilisi (2013), Baku (2014), Guadalajara (2016) and Zaragoza (2018)NATO has built up the presence of its forces in the Black Sea.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg made such a statement at a press conference ahead of the meetings of NATO ministers of foreign affairs, which is scheduled to begin in Brussels on December 4, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

NATO has built up its military presence in the Black Sea region. We also have greater naval presence. Last year, the number of NATO warships in the Black Sea increased from 80 to 120. We have three allies in the region - Turkey, Romania and Bulgaria - which have their own naval capabilities. NATO patrols the airspace over the Black Sea region, and we have a new multinational brigade in Romania. Now we have more surveillance and reconnaissance assets in this region, Stoltenberg said.

He noted that the Allies would continue to closely monitor the situation in the Azov region and called on Russia to release the Ukrainian ships and their crews.

We provide powerful political and practical support to Ukraine. Since the illegal annexation of Crimea, we have provided such support in various forms: helped to modernize the armed forces, improve the command structures, strengthen cyber security. Moreover, several allies provide such assistance on a bilateral basis by training Ukrainian military personnel. We will continue to provide such practical assistance and support the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, the NATO Secretary General stressed.

olRevenues of the Kherson regions consolidated budget in 2018 grew three times from the year 2014.

Head of the Kherson Regional State Administration Andriy Hordeyev stated this at a meeting of the Regional Development Council, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"Consolidated budget: revenues of the budget grew three times in 2018 compared to 2014. The consolidated budget in the first ten months of 2018 amounted UAH 3.7 billion. It is expected to reach about UAH 4 billion by the end of the year, Hordeyev said.

He stressed that "this became possible due to the budget decentralization approved by the parliament at the initiative of the President of Ukraine."

Hordeyev also said that as part of decentralization that is carried out in the region, income growth is recorded in the budgets of all united territorial communities of the region.

iyBulgaria Air has suspended flights between Sofia and Odesa until December 16 inclusive due to the introduction of martial law in Ukraine, reads a report posted on the company's website.

"Due to the declared military situation in Ukraine and the recommendations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and for the safety of the passengers, the national carrier Bulgaria Air suspended its flights between Sofia and Odesa until 16 December 2018 inclusive," reads the report.

Bulgaria Air added that depending on the normalization of the situation in Ukraine it will be determined whether flights that are due after December 16 can be executed.

"For additional information and assistance regarding already purchased air tickets you can contact the Customer Service Center at callFB@air.bg and at +359 2 402 0400," reads the report.

As reported, Russian border ships on November 25 committed aggressive actions against Ukrainian ships that set sail from the port of Odesa to the port of Mariupol. Russian special forces fired on and captured three Ukrainian ships with 24 sailors on board in the Kerch Strait.

On November 26, 2018, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted the law approving a presidential decree on the introduction of martial law in Ukraine for 30 days in ten regions of the country, including Odesa region.

opPrime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau said he had called for President of Russia Vladimir Putin to release Ukrainian sailors captured in the Sea of Azov.

He stated this at a closing press conference at the G20 Summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina on Saturday, Canadas CBC News reports.

Trudeau explained he'd conveyed Canada's concerns to Putin at the leaders' plenary session, particularly with the situation in the Sea of Azov, where Ukrainian boats were attacked by Russian vessels earlier this week  and reiterated the demand that the captured sailors be released, reads the report.

At the same time, when asked if he was worried about repercussions from Russia, Trudeau said that there wasn't opportunity for Putin to respond at the leaders' retreat, according to CBC News.

As reported, on November 25, Russian border ships committed the acts of aggression against three Ukrainian ships heading from the port of Odesa to the port of Mariupol. The Russian special forces fired and seized three Ukrainian ships in the Kerch Strait. There were 24 sailors aboard.

On November 26, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted the law approving the presidential decree on the introduction of martial law in ten regions for 30 days in connection with the Russian aggression.

iyUkraine needs stepped-up naval presence of Germany and the allies in the Black Sea as a deterrent for Russia.

We need stepped-up naval presence of Germany and the allies in the Black Sea as a deterrent for Russia, President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko said in an interview with the German Funke Media Group, the official website of the Head of State reports.

As the President stressed, Russia's aggressive actions are unacceptable, therefore the international community and the united Europe should increase pressure on Russia.

We need a strong, unified, unequivocal response to Russia's aggressive behavior. We must stop the Nord Stream 2. We must think about new sanctions now, Poroshenko stressed.

He also added that the time had come for a reaction against Russia as it happened after the incident in British Salisbury where former Russian spy Sergey Skripal and his daughter had been poisoned by Novichok nerve agent.

I believe that a meeting of the European Council in Brussels in December will be a timely opportunity to consider a situation based on the principle of solidarity and unity with Ukraine, the President emphasized.

As reported, on November 25, Russian border ships committed the acts of aggression against three Ukrainian ships heading from the port of Odesa to the port of Mariupol. The Russian special forces fired and seized three Ukrainian ships in the Kerch Strait and 24 sailors aboard.

On November 26, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted a law approving the decree of the President of Ukraine on the imposition of the martial law for 30 days in 10 regions of Ukraine in connection with the aggression of Russia.

olChairman of the Senate of the Czech Republic Jaroslav Kubera and Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Radek Vondracek support the preservation of the current anti-Russian sanctions but do not consider their strengthening.

I support the sanctions against Russia, because, unfortunately, we have no other opportunity to declare our disagreement with the actions of the Russian side, said Jaroslav Kubera, Radio Praha reports.

The Czech politicians believe that sanctions are the only way to voice a protest against Russia. At the same time, they note that the main task after the actions of Russia in the Sea of Azov is "to bring both parties to the negotiating table."

However, Kubera does not support the strengthening of sanctions "because of the ambiguity of interests that each of the parties to conflict pursues."

Radek Vondracek, in turn, said that he saw no reason for lifting the anti-Russian sanctions, "because the reasons, for which they were imposed, are still in effect."

As reported, on November 25, Russian border ships committed the acts of aggression against three Ukrainian ships heading from the port of Odesa to the port of Mariupol. The Russian special forces fired and seized three Ukrainian ships in the Kerch Strait and 24 sailors aboard.

On November 26, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted a law approving the decree of the President of Ukraine on the imposition of the martial law for 30 days in 10 regions of Ukraine in connection with the aggression of Russia.

olUkraine expects the support in the issue of release of Ukrainian sailors and other political prisoners from the United States of America as its strategic partner.

This was discussed during the meeting of First Vice Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Iryna Gerashchenko with Deputy Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of State George Kent, Gerashchenko posted on Facebook.

"I and [Ukrainian MP] Maria Ionova met with the new official of the U.S. Department of State [George Kent] and the U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch. We discussed security issues, martial law, the situation around the Ukrainian sailors captured by the Russian Federation, the new ministry of veterans affairs and its action plan, other issues of reforms in Ukraine. However, the key issue is security, the situation in Donbas and Crimea, the release of hostages. We are waiting for the support in these matters from our strategic partner, especially in releasing the sailors and other political prisoners and the hostages of the Kremlin from Russian prisons," Gerashchenko noted.

The First Vice Speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament added that U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs George Kent had started his first after the appointment visit to Ukraine with important discussion of the security situation in the Sea of Azov. Kent confirmed that the United States supported Ukraine in protecting its territorial integrity and sovereignty.

olSemenchenko and the Samopomich party have not yet commented on this information.

Chairman of the Socialist Party of Ukraine Ilya Kiva has said Ukrainian MP from the Samopomich party and former head of the Donbas volunteer battalion Semen Semenchenko was among detainees in Georgia after an attempt to illegally buy weapons there.

According to him, Semenchenko escaped arrest due to his diplomatic passport and left Georgia by plane to an unknown destination.

Adviser to the president of Ukraine Yuriy Biriukov and journalist Andriy Dzindzia also reported about Semenchenko's detention in Georgia, citing their own sources.

Read alsoGeorgia's president-elect refuses to cooperate with Russia amid Ukraine row

According to the latter, the lawmaker was among a group of Ukrainians who were detained in Tbilisi. Semenchenko and his accomplices were detained after they had attempted to buy weapons, but the MP avoided arrest due to his diplomatic passport, Dzindzia said.

Biriukov noted Georgia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs could express its dissatisfaction to Ukraine as Semenchenko had been in that country as an official representative of the Ukrainian authorities.

Semenchenko and the Samopomich party have not yet commented on this information.

As reported earlier, on Saturday, November 30, five citizens of Ukraine, including former Georgian soldier Luka Chkhetia, who fought in eastern Ukraine, were detained at Tbilisi's Alliance Hotel. Prior to that, he visited Afghanistan twice with a peacekeeping mission. His family says Chekhetia came to attend a rally of the united opposition on Sunday. They link his detention with political persecution.

Meanwhile, Deputy Director of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry's consular service department Vasyl Kyrylych wrote on Twitter the consul was checking information about the detention of citizens of Ukraine in Georgia.Ukraine is taking measures to address the threat of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has said Russia has sharply increased the number of its troops along the border with Ukraine and in Russian-occupied Crimea.

"We have complete information about the sharp increase in Russian troops along our border and in occupied Crimea. And all the opportunities the authorities have due to [recently imposed] martial law will be used to enhance the defense of the state border with the Russian Federation and the administrative border with the Autonomous Republic of Crimea," Poroshenko said at the forum "70 Years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: an Agenda for Ukraine," an UNIAN correspondent reported.

Read alsoPoroshenko: Putin threatens NATO's eastern borders

The president said martial law had been imposed in 10 border regions to protect the territorial integrity and independence of the state. He stressed that was a preventive step, which in no way aims at curtailing the constitutional rights and freedoms of citizens.

According to him, joint combat training of the brigades located in the respective regions will take place.

"The respective units will be relocated to enhance the defense of the border. Military exercises will be held in the areas where martial law is in effect, as well as training with the first line reserve will also take place," Poroshenko said.

"Ukraine is taking its own measures to address the threat of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine. And when someone says we had to use other, land routes to relocate Ukrainian ships from land  what does this mean, dear politicians? To offer to surrender the Kerch Strait to Russians? To recognize the illegal occupation? What will you continue doing to trade Ukrainian land?" he said.Russia must release the Ukrainian sailors and ships, Stoltenberg said.

Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Jens Stoltenberg has condemned Russia's use of force against the Ukrainian ships and sailors near the Kerch Strait.

"Russia recently seized Ukrainian ships and sailors near the Kerch Strait. There is no justification for this use of force. We call for calm and restraint," he said at a press conference ahead of the meetings of NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs.

Read alsoCrimean Tatar activists bring food, clothes to captive Ukrainian sailors in Moscow

"Russia must release the Ukrainian sailors and ships. It must also allow freedom of navigation. And unhindered access to Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov. Ukrainian vessels, military as well as civilian, have the right to navigate through the Kerch Strait and the Sea of Azov," he said.

As UNIAN reported, three Ukrainian vessels were captured on November 25 by Russian forces at sea near the Kerch Strait, which is the only outlet to the Sea of Azov and controls access to two major Ukrainian ports. The two Ukrainian artillery boats and a tugboat were heading from Odesa on the Black Sea to Mariupol on the Sea of Azov. Twenty-four sailors were detained and "courts" in Russian-occupied Crimea ruled that they be detained for two months, pending trial.

On November 29, the sailors were transferred to Moscow, Russia.The text of the bill has not yet been made public.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has submitted to the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, a bill on the termination of the Treaty on Friendship, Cooperation and Partnership between Ukraine and the Russian Federation (No. 0206).

Speaking during the Verkhovna Rada's Conciliatory Council, Ukrainian presidential representative in parliament Iryna Lutsenko expressed the view that the lawmakers "will be able to support such a motion in accordance with the procedure," an UNIAN correspondent reported.

Meanwhile, the parliament's website states the president has submitted such a bill, but its text has not yet been made public.

Read alsoRussia confirms receipt of Ukraine's note on non-extension of friendship treaty

UNIAN memo. The Treaty on Friendship, Cooperation, and Partnership between Ukraine and the Russian Federation was signed by the then Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma and his Russian counterpart Boris Yeltsin on May 31, 1997. The document fixed the principle of strategic partnership, the recognition of the inviolability of existing borders, respect for territorial integrity and mutual commitment not to use its territory to harm the security of each other. It automatically renews on each 10th anniversary of its signing, unless one party advises the other of its intention to end the treaty. After Russia annexed Crimea and unleashed war in Donbas in 2014, there have been repeat appeals in Ukraine to sever the treaty.

On September 6, 2018, the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) of Ukraine decided not to extend the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Partnership between Ukraine and the Russian Federation, which is expiring on March 31, 2019.

On September 17, Poroshenko signed a decree enacting the NSDC's decision. On September 21, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry sent Russia a corresponding note.

On September 26, Poroshenko handed the note over to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for distribution as an official document of the UN General Assembly and the UN Security Council.Semenchenko also claims the detained Ukrainians have nothing to do with the rallies of the local opposition and have not taken part in such events.

Ukrainian MP from the Samopomich party and former head of the Donbas volunteer battalion Semen Semenchenko has denied reports that he was among the Ukrainians with weapons who were detained in Georgia.

"The information that someone allegedly detained me somewhere is a fake. The information that I 'left Georgia by plane to an unknown destination' is a fake," he wrote on Facebook.

Read alsoGeorgia's president-elect refuses to cooperate with Russia amid Ukraine row

Semenchenko also claims the detained Ukrainians have nothing to do with the rallies of the local opposition and have not taken part in such events.

"The Ukrainians were allegedly 'detained while purchasing weapons.' The fake is that they were detained in a hotel and (according to lawyers) one of them had allegedly cartridges, another one had a pistol, another one had cartridges, etc.," he said.

According to Semenchenko, the lawyers of the detainees are now awaiting the investigator's decision, and no one has been served with charge papers yet.

As UNIAN reported earlier, Chairman of the Socialist Party of Ukraine Ilya Kiva said Ukrainian MP from the Samopomich party and former head of the Donbas volunteer battalion Semen Semenchenko had been among detainees in Georgia after an attempt to illegally buy weapons there. According to Kiva, Semenchenko escaped arrest due to his diplomatic passport and left Georgia by plane to an unknown destination.The bill submitted to Parliament states that the Treaty shall is terminated due to the continued Russian aggression against Ukraine.

The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has registered a draft law On the termination of the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Partnership between Ukraine and the Russian Federation, introduced by President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko (0206).

The draft law provides for the termination of the Treaty, signed on May 31, 1997 in Kyiv and ratified by the Verkhovna Rada on January 14, 1998, from April 1, 2019, according to an UNIAN correspondent.

It is also noted that the termination of the Agreement frees Ukraine from any obligation to fulfill it and does not affect the rights, obligations or legal status of Ukraine arising from the implementation of the named Treaty before its termination, in accordance with Article 70 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of International Treaties.

The explanatory note to the bill states that the ongoing aggression of the Russian Federation caused significant violations of most of the Treatys articles, which Ukraine systematically emphasizes in correspondence with the Russian Federation.

At the same time, it is noted that a number of significant violations of the Treaty became the subject of claims filed with international judiciary bodies that are now being considered.

Read alsoPoroshenko submits to parliament bill on termination of Treaty of Friendship with Russia

The explanatory note states that today there are no signs of Russia's good faith to eliminate violations and compensate for the damage caused by their illegal actions. Moreover, with its aggressive activities Russia has been constantly aggravating violations of the terms of the Treaty.

UNIAN memo. The Treaty on Friendship, Cooperation, and Partnership between Ukraine and the Russian Federation was signed by the then Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma and his Russian counterpart Boris Yeltsin on May 31, 1997. The document fixed the principle of strategic partnership, the recognition of the inviolability of existing borders, respect for territorial integrity and mutual commitment not to use its territory to harm the security of each other. It automatically renews on each 10th anniversary of its signing, unless one party advises the other of its intention to end the treaty.

After Russia annexed Crimea and unleashed war in Donbas in 2014, there have been repeat appeals in Ukraine to sever the treaty.

On September 6, 2018, the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) of Ukraine decided not to extend the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Partnership between Ukraine and the Russian Federation, which is expiring on March 31, 2019.

On September 17, Poroshenko signed a decree enacting the NSDC's decision. On September 21, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry sent Russia a corresponding note.

On September 26, Poroshenko handed the note over to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for distribution as an official document of the UN General Assembly and the UN Security Council.

On December 3, 2018, the Ukrainian president submitted to the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, a bill on the termination of the Treaty on Friendship, Cooperation and Partnership between Ukraine and the Russian Federation (No. 0206).The POWs are disoriented, completely cut off from the outer world.

Psychological pressure is being exerted on Ukrainian Navy sailors captured by the Russian FSB near the Kerch Strait on Nov 25 and then transferred to Moscow's Lefortovo pre-trial detention center.

This is being done to force them into testifying against themselves, Russian lawyer Nikolai Polozov suggested, commenting on the obstacles faced by lawyers of the Ukrainian military as they had been trying to gain access to their clients, reports Krym.Realii.

"The situation is very simple: psychological pressure is being exerted on prisoners of war. They are trying to disorient them, completely cut them off from the outside world as they know nothing about what is happening out there," said Polozov.

According to the lawyer, the FSB will do everything to ensure that this situation is in place as long as possible to try to get confessions from the Ukrainian military.

Read alsoNavy Commander to captured sailors: Brothers!.. Law is on our side Fear is a natural thing

As UNIAN reported earlier, on the morning of November 25, Russia blocked the passage to the Kerch Strait for the Ukrainian tug boat Yany Kapu and two armored naval boats Berdyansk and Nikopol, which were on aa scheduled re-deployment from the Black Sea port of Odesa to the Azov Sea port of Mariupol.

The Ukraine Navy Command noted that the Russian side had been informed in advance of the intention to re-deploy the vessels in accordance with international standards to ensure the safety of navigation.

The Russian coast guard ship "Don" rammed the Ukrainian tug, damaging the Ukrainian vessel. As the Ukrainian boats were heading back in the Odesa direction after being rejected passage via the Kerch Strait, Russian coast guards opened aimed fire on them.

Read alsoCaptured Ukrainian Navy men have status of "prisoners of war"  Ukrainian prosecutor

All 24 crew on board were captured and later remanded in custody for two months, charged with "illegal border crossing" (the sailors are facing up to six years in prison). Three crewmen were injured in the attack.

The Russian-controlled court in the occupied Crimea ruled to remand all 24 POWs in custody, after which they were transferred to Moscow-based Lefortovo and Matrosskaya Silence detention centers.Putin is cunning, opportunistic, and aggressive. He probes for weakness and then he takes it further, according to the Senator.

U.S. Senator John Barrasso has called for deploying warships to the Black Sea in response to Russia's aggression.

"Putin is somebody that respects strength and territory. Words don't mean much to him, action does. I think we need to do more. I've called for sending ships to the Black Seaand have NATO do it as well. To show the people of Ukraine that we are with them. To show Russia that international law must be followed," Barasso told NBC's "Meet the Press," according to his website.

But in terms of lethal weapons for Ukraine, we've given them anti-tank, we need to give them anti-aircraft, we need to give them weapons also in terms of anti-ship," the Senator said, adding that Putin "will not stop until he is stopped."

"He can smell fear and that's the way he acts," Barasso said.

Read alsoCoast guards Russia's new "little green men" - media

Elaborating on possible U.S. response, the Senator went on to say, Any kind of action has to be a deterrence and a deterrence has to be a forceful response. Not just saying something to Putin. He's cunning, he's opportunistic, he's aggressive. He probes for weakness and then he takes it further. That's what his position has been with Ukraine. He treats Ukraine as a guinea pig. He tries something there and then says I can try it other places.

He also noted the need to prevent the construction of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline bypassing Ukraine.

Putin's powers are three: cyber, as well as energy, as well as his military. We need to do everything we can to become more energy independent and dominant, to use that energy, and I think we need NATO's involvement as well. Angela Merkel ought to stop the Nord Stream 2 pipeline because she's addicted to Russian energy."Ukraine has banned entry to Russian men aged 16 to 60  something the Ukrainian authorities should have done in 2014.

This was a necessary measure, because de facto, Ukraine is in a state of war with the Russian Federation, part of its territory has been annexed by Russia, another part is being occupied, while a creeping annexation is underway in the Azov Sea. Under such conditions, Ukraine really needed to impose such restrictions on Russians.

Besides, recall how the Crimea events unfolded in 2014, and later in Donetsk and Luhansk: Russians would massively cross into Ukraine on buses, only to later vandalize state institutions, seize weapons and further destabilize the regions, under the guise of "Ukrainian citizens."

Therefore, the latest step on part of the Ukrainian government is quite reasonable.

It should be noted that this is not about an absolute entry ban. Unfortunately, our border services so far have no clear instructions for exceptions. And, of course, there should be such exceptions. They should apply to those who have a permanent residence permit in Ukraine, first-degree family ties, etc. I think that the list should also include human rights defenders, opposition figures, and all those who are fighting Putin's regime, being our tactical allies and partners.

By filtering Russians, we are protecting our borders from penetration by Russian intelligence operatives

What's in the entry ban for the state of Ukraine? First of all, I should note that in the last years, the number of Russians visiting Ukraine has decreased significantly: in 2016-2017, some 1.5 million Russians traveled to Ukraine, while just over 2 million Ukrainians went to Russia over that period. Most traveled to Russia as tourists or visiting relatives. Also, many Ukrainians work in Russia.

By filtering Russians, we are protecting our borders from penetration by Russian intelligence operatives, potential militants, and other subversive elements.

These processes also indirectly affect Russian economy. The number of Ukrainians traveling to Russia for work has been on the fall, including due to new opportunities to work in Europe. Besides, according to Russian scientists, next year Russia will for the first time in ten years hit the "demographic pit." That is, mortality will exceed birthrate.

However, introducing restrictions on entry, Ukraine would have to take this step in tandem with other measures. For example, by severing diplomatic relations with Russia in parallel lines and also ousting Russian business from Ukraine (in particular, those oligarchs from Putin's entourage, that's not even mentioning small and medium businesses of ordinary Russians). After all, Ukraine is still seeing a dominance of Russian money and companies operating in very sensitive areas: finance, banking, communications, and energy. All this needs to be squeezed out of Ukraine, while the country should fill the void with Western investors, first of all, from countries that support Ukraine's territorial integrity not only by voting in the UN, but also by sending weapons, financial assistance, etc.

In the long run, we must introduce a visa regime with Russia

The same applies to trade. Last year, we increased imports from Russia by 40%. Over the nine months of this year  by almost 20%. Meanwhile, our exports to Russia are dropping. And the argument of our government that we keep trading with Russia to get profits that we can spend on improving defense capabilities doesn't work, because we import more from Russia than we export there. This is a negative thing.

Therefore, the reduction of trade with Russia due to reorientation to other markets is a priority issue of Ukraine's national security, as well as in terms of improvement of the economic situation in Ukraine.

In the long run, we must introduce a visa regime with Russia. This is also necessary to protect own territory and block illegal migration flows from Russia via Ukraine further to Europe. So the introduction of the visa regime would be a logical step.

Caring for Ukrainians who travel to work in Russia might be a good thing, but probably during an armed conflict, foreign aggression, occupation and annexation, there are considerations of a higher order - to preserve and save Ukraine as a state. Although I do realize that some might not like what I say. However, they will probably like even less when they find invaders in their homes, as, for example, it is happening now in Crimea where a large number of Ukrainians and Crimean Tatars cannot return to the annexed peninsula.

By the way, it is not beneficial for Russia to limit the number of Ukrainians traveling to Russia. That's because Ukrainians provide a solution to Russia's problems with labor force. This is also an element of influence on Ukraine, since family ties and staying in Russia affect the way of thinking of Ukrainians traveling there, as well as contribute to their readiness to vote for pro-Russian candidates.

I believe there should be a list of Russians who should be exempt from the entry ban

Therefore, I don't think that Russia will go for any symmetrical action because restricting entry for Ukrainian men to Russia is contrary to Russia's interests. Moscow may resort to some symbolic steps and blacklist only a certain category of Ukrainian nationals. However, in view of labor force and demographic problems in Russia, Moscow is unlikely to resort to a symmetrical response.

Another point is that these restrictions also apply to the acclaimed Russians known for their pro-Ukrainian stance. What should Ukraine do about this? The country cannot afford discriminating against those who are not our enemy. Therefore, the ban should not apply to people who have obtained a permanent residence permit. Other exceptions should also be provided. Although it is impossible to foresee everything, a certain body should be set up in Ukraine, which would coordinate its work with the SBU and the Border Guard Service. Such an agency would have address such exceptions without delays.

For example, if a Russian opposition figure arrives in Ukraine asking for political asylum, how should the authorities treat them? Sending them back to Russia where something bad could happen to them? Or should they be allowed to stay in Ukraine and remain here on legal grounds? Should there be a separate list of such persons, allowing their unhindered crossing? I believe there should be a list of Russians who should be exempt from the entry ban, and there should be a mechanism for quickly addressing individual situations that will be coming up

Oleksandr Khara leads the department of international multilateral relations at the "Maidan of Foreign Affairs" FoundationThe clothes and food were donated by local residents of Russian-occupied Crimea.

Crimean Tatar activist Nariman Dzhelalov has said the Crimean Tatar activists came to Moscow's Lefortovo detention center where captive Ukrainian sailors are held to hand clothes and food over to them.

Read alsoCaptured Ukrainian Navy men have status of "prisoners of war"  Ukrainian prosecutor

"Together with friends, desperate and courageous people, we took the responsibility to bring things and food collected in Crimea. And with the help of our friends here in Moscow, to hand over to them [Ukrainian sailors] so that they feel normal, being in such a gloomy place," the activist told the Krym.Realii online media outlet.

As UNIAN reported, three Ukrainian vessels were captured on November 25 by Russian forces at sea near the Kerch Strait, which is the only outlet to the Sea of Azov and controls access to two major Ukrainian ports. The two Ukrainian artillery boats and a tugboat were heading from Odesa on the Black Sea to Mariupol on the Sea of Azov. Twenty-four sailors were detained and "courts" in Russian-occupied Crimea ruled that they be detained for two months, pending trial.

On November 29, the sailors were transferred to Moscow.The training will be held after martial law was imposed in 10 regions of Ukraine.

The large-scale military and reservist training starts in Ukraine on December 3.

Read alsoMartial law in Ukraine: All UAVs spotted over military facilities to be shot down  Defense Ministry

The training will be held after martial law was imposed in 10 regions of Ukraine, according to the Ukrainian Defense Ministry's press service.

In particular, there will be training both as part of brigades (up to 15 days) and as part of training centers (up to 20 days).

Thus, training events are expected to be over before the start of the New Year holiday season.

As UNIAN reported earlier, the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, on November 26 gave the green light to a presidential decree on the introduction of martial law in Ukraine. Martial law will be in effect from 14:00 on November 26, 2018, to 14:00 on December 26, 2018.The Ukrainian Army reported no casualties in the past day.

Russian-led forces mounted seven attacks on Ukrainian troops in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, in the last 24 hours.

"No casualties among Ukrainian troops have been reported in the past day. According to intelligence reports, three occupiers were killed and another five were wounded," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation said in an update on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on December 3, 2018.

Read alsoUkraine reports full ceasefire in Donbas on Dec 2

Russian occupation forces opened aimed fire at the defenders of the town of Krasnohorivka, and the villages of Stanytsia Luhanska, Novomykhailivka, Slavne, Taramchuk, and Lebedynske. No heavy weapons were used.

"The enemy also employed grenade launchers and heavy machine guns twice near Taramchuk. Another act of provocation was also recorded near the disengagement area in Stanytsia Luhanska, where the invaders opened fire on the Ukrainian positions, using heavy machine guns," the report says.

"Since Monday midnight, Russian-led forces have attacked the Ukrainian positions near Krymske, using 82mm mortars. No Ukrainian army casualties have been reported since the start of the day," reads the report.Journalists from Russia's Rostov did not mention the cause of his death.

Ukrainian journalist Denys Kazansky has reported that the grave of U.S. citizen William Reilly who went missing on June 24, 2015, after he reportedly went to support the self-proclaimed "Donetsk People's Republic" ("DPR"), was uncovered in Russian-controlled Donbas.

"In 2015, American citizen William Paul Reilly went to the territory controlled by the 'DPR' to help the 'militia' and went missing. For several years, nothing has been heard about him, and only now it has become known that a trace of Reilly has been found. It wasn't him but his grave in 'DPR'-controlled territory. There is no information about what exactly happened to him. Either the American was mistakenly taken for a spy and executed, or killed just for the purpose of robbery, since he had several thousand dollars on him. It is only known that he traveled to the 'DPR' through Rostov [in Russia], and last year the Rostov-based website 1rnd.ru reconstructed the timing of his stay in Russia," Kazansky wrote in his blog.

Reilly arrived in Moscow on May 15, 2015, where he was met by Mikhail Polynkov, a well-known associate of former "DPR Defense Minister" Igor Girkin, nom de guerre Strelkov. Polynkov was recruiting and sending mercenaries to Russian-occupied Donbas to fight against the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Read alsoFSB preparing Girkin's return to Donbas  expert

Having met with him, Reilly went to Rostov where he was robbed: $2,000 in cash was stolen along with his bank cards, which were later used for payments and cash withdrawals. Reilly was supposed to leave Rostov for the "DPR," but contact with him was lost on June 24, 2015.

Reilly's parents contacted Mikhail Polynkov to get more information about their son, and he made it clear in lame English that their son had been arrested by Russian special services. He advised to contact the CIA or the FSB.

Another U.S. citizen, who fought on the side of Donbas terrorists, Russell "Texas" Bentley, tried to find out information about his fellow countryman. He dialed a telephone number from Reilly's call detail records which was recorded on June 24, the day when William went missing. Someone named Boria Kalmyk responded. He told Bentley not to ask any questions about Reilly.

The parents sent inquiries to the "DPR" about their son, but got the answer that no one called William Reilly had entered the "republic." Therefore, for a long time, the American was thought to have disappeared in the Russian Federation, namely in the city of Rostov.

"But the Rostov.ru website reported that Reilly had eventually been found. He was killed and buried in the territory of the 'DPR' in the middle of 2015  shortly after he had disappeared," Kazansky wrote.

But Rostov journalists did not mention the cause of his death. "In the article, the Rostov journalists assume that the American died amid shelling, but this is absolute nonsense. Given that 'DPR' members took him for a spy, he hardly reached the front line. Polynkov wrote that the American had been in the hands of the FSB. Most likely, that structure is involved in his death," Kazansky said.

"This story is epic. The 'anti-fascists' did not appreciate the American idealist's aspirations. This will be a lesson to other naive fools who live in the EU or the United States and support Russian aggression against Ukraine. I hope this incident will get the maximum publicity, and the West will learn how members of the 'DPR' and 'LPR' [the other self-proclaimed republic 'Luhansk People's Republic'] had handled a volunteer from the United States who believed in the 'fight against fascism' and came to take part in it. And if this happened to an American citizen, one can only guess how many locals, Ukrainian citizens disappeared in this gray zone. Some 573 people were listed as missing on 'LPR' territory alone in 2016. Even more people have probably disappeared on 'DPR' territory," the Ukrainian journalist added.The militants used grenade launchers, the evening update on Donbas developments says.

On Monday, Dec 3, Russian occupation forces violated the cease-fire regime in Donbas three times, the press center of the Joint Forces Operation Headquarters reports.

The HQ also noted that the militants continue using weapons proscribed by the Minsk agreements.

"The enemy opened aimed fire from automatic grenade launchers at the JF positions near the settlement of Vodiane outside Donetsk. Russian invaders fired from 82mm mortars at our stronghold near Krymske and from anti-tank grenade launchers  near Troyitske," the report reads.

Read alsoUkraine reports seven enemy attacks in Donbas in past 24 hours

It is also noted that the Joint Forces suffered no casualties on Monday so far.

The situation in the JF Operation zone remains under the control of the Ukrainian military, the HQ says.The two countries are considering three sites for the potential summit.

U.S. President Donald Trump said a second summit with North Korea's Kim Jong Un would likely take place in January or February.

"We're getting along very well," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One during the return trip from the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, CNN reported.

"We have a good relationship with Kim," he said.

The first Trump-Kim summit took place in June in Singapore but Trump has said the next meeting will probably take place at a new location.

Read alsoTrump says next summit with North Korea's Kim to come after November U.S. elections  media

The two countries are considering three sites for the potential summit, Trump said on Saturday, but he did not offer up details about where those sites were.

When asked if Kim would come to the U.S. for a visit apart from the second summit, Trump said "at some point" he will.

Speaking to reporters onboard a flight to New Zealand following the G20, South Korea's President Moon Jae-in said Trump had asked him to pass a message to Kim, should the North Korean leader visit Seoul this year.

Moon said on Sunday that Trump told him he had a "very amicable view" of Kim and that he wanted to "implement the rest of the agreement."

The Singapore summit ended with the two sides signing a vaguely-worded agreement committing to a new relationship and the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. In exchange, Trump agreed to "provide security guarantees" to North Korea.

Moon said Kim's visit to Seoul was not yet confirmed to take place this year and the timing "depends on his decision."

Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have publicly discussed a possible second meeting with Kim multiple times but talks with North Korean officials appeared to have been stalled.

Washington and Pyongyang were locked in a diplomatic standoff for weeks over which side will make concessions first until U.S. officials relaxed its demands.

Last month, Vice President Mike Pence said the U.S. would not require North Korea to provide a full list of its nuclear and missile sites before Trump meets Kim again.

Rather than requiring a declaration of nuclear weapons sites as a prerequisite to a second meeting with Trump, Pence told NBC News that the administration would insist on developing a "verifiable plan" to disclose those sites while the two leaders are in the same room.At this perilous moment, it is essential for all interested in stability in Europe to understand this geopolitical reality and to make it an embarrassment to utter such nonsense in public.

The past several days have been historic ones in Ukraine's development as a sovereign and democratic nation.

Moscow's unprovoked attack on and seizure of three Ukrainian ships in the Black Sea on November 25 began this process, John E. Herbst, director of the Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center and a former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, wrote in an article on November 30, 2018.

This attack represents a serious escalation of Kremlin aggression because it was done openly by regular Russian military forces. Moscow was not hiding its role  as in Donbas  behind the fiction that local "separatists" were running a rebellion.

Read alsoLarge-scale military, reservist training starts Dec 3

Russian naval forces first rammed one of the Ukrainian boats and then opened fire. Ukrainian communication intercepts show that Russian commanders on shore gave their ships orders to undertake this action and noted that the situation was being monitored by senior officials in Moscow. The Kremlin was likely trying to provoke the Ukrainian ships into firing in order to justify a larger Russian military response. Moscow successfully used this tactic to start its 2008 war with Georgia, but Ukraine wisely did not take the bait.

In response, President Petro Poroshenko convened Ukraine's Security and Defense Council (NSDC), which recommended that the government declare a state of martial law covering the entire country for two months.

For many in the West, "martial law" conjures up images of dictators and troops strutting down city streets in fatigues. But for a country fighting a defensive war against the world's second most powerful military, martial law is not an extreme measure. It can provide the government the means to better mobilize and direct resources against a dire threat. In fact, Poroshenko had been criticized for years, including by reform-minded politicians, for not seeking martial law earlier.

The Ukrainian public pays great attention to politics. So, on Monday, November 26, many people were jumping back and forth between two not quite consistent thoughts. On the one hand, they had a growing apprehension about a possible, greater Russian military strike. On the other, they began speculating about Poroshenko's "political motivation" for taking the NSDC recommendation to the Rada for approval. Was he doing this to bolster his declining political rating? To delay next March's presidential election? Poroshenko's political opponents were also happy to push this line of thinking. And some in civil society, which does outstanding work promoting reform and democratic practice, began to raise the specter that martial law might be a step toward authoritarianism.

The Rada met late on November 26. After contentious bargaining, it approved a compromise measure for martial law. First, they reduced the period for martial law to one month. Second, they limited the scope: it would not cover the whole country; it would cover the ten oblasts bordering Russia, the Sea of Azov, and Transnistria in Moldova. In conjunction, the Rada formally established March 31 as the date for the first round of the presidential election, the author said.

Read alsoPoroshenko: Putin threatens NATO's eastern borders

Credit for this sensible compromise goes to three individuals: Poroshenko, for taking the proposal to the Rada and his willingness to accept less than he asked for; Yulia Tymoshenko, Poroshenko's leading opponent in the upcoming election, who, for the good of the country, was willing to let the president get martial law through the Rada; and former Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk, the head of the People's Party, who knows how to cut a deal when the stakes are high.

According to Herbst, this process was messy, but ultimately a triumph, a democratic triumph in very difficult circumstances. The untidiness, though, does exact a price. Moscow has been at war with Ukraine for nearly five years. The international community has been slow to recognize this fact and take appropriate action. This has been true each time Moscow escalated the conflict. What's more, Kremlin propagandists are ready with each new provocation to change the subject to the supposed inadequacies of Ukraine's leaders, politics, and society.

This means that the natural inclination of Ukraine's political class to focus on the alleged or real political motivations behind national security measures can divert at least for a time the attention of Western media and statesmen from the core issue: the strategic danger posed by Moscow's latest outrage. The same is true in particular for the warnings, issued at times with hyperbolic headlines, of alleged growing authoritarianism, the expert stressed.

While some Western statesmen, European Council President Donald Tusk and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo come to mind, quickly condemned Moscow's attack, others called for restraint by both sides. In other words, for restraint by the aggressor and the victim. Such assessments are craven. And they rely on the notion that the key issue in Eastern Europe is not Russian revisionism, but Ukraine's internal inadequacies. At this perilous moment, it is essential for all interested in stability in Europe to understand this geopolitical reality and to make it an embarrassment to utter such nonsense in public.Delegations of 34 IMO Member States have supported Ukraine's position.

Ukraine's delegation expressed its strong protest to Russian at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in connection with the Nov 25 armed attack on the Ukrainian Navy vessels near the Kerch Strait.

"On 3 December 2018 at the Maritime Safety Committee of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) the delegation of Ukraine expressed its strong protest to the Russian Federation in connection with the armed attack and capture of the three Ukrainian Navy ships as well as capturing of members of their crews," reads the statement provided to UNIAN by the press service of the Ukrainian Embassy in the UK.

Read alsoNATO chief condemns Russia's use of force against Ukrainian sailors

The Ukrainian side condemned the excessive stopping and inspection of commercial vessels, heading to Ukrainian ports, in violation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea as well as the Ukraine-Russia bilateral agreements.

"Delegations of 34 IMO Member States, including Australia, Canada, France, Georgia, Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States, have supported the position of Ukraine and condemned yet another act of armed aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine," the diplomats say.The transaction consists of three elements:

all-Equity Merger of Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) with the publicly listed GSK Consumer Healthcare India (GSK CH India),

acquisition of 82% stake in GSK Bangladesh Limited (GSK Bangladesh), and



acquisition of certain other commercial operations and assets outside India.



Unilevers share of the total consideration is 3.3bn payable using a combination of cash, and shares in its listed subsidiary in India, Hindustan Unilever Limited.

In 2018, the GSK HFD portfolio delivered total turnover of c.550m, primarily through the Horlicks and Boost brands. Almost 90% of the turnover is in India.

The transaction is aligned with Unilevers stated strategy of increasing its presence in health-food categories and in high-growth emerging markets.

GSK HFD is the undisputed leader in the Health Food Drinks category in India, with iconic brands such as Horlicks and Boost, and a product portfolio supported by strong nutritional claims. This portfolio has a long history in India with Horlicks having originally been introduced in the 1930s.

Horlicks products have been an everyday staple in South Asian households across generations. Over the last 15 years, the portfolio (and category) has grown at a double-digit rate. Despite this, the category still remains under-penetrated in India. Unilever is well positioned to further develop the market given the extent of its reach and capabilities.

Nitin Paranjpe, President, Food & Refreshment, Unilever, said: We are delighted to be acquiring the GSK Health Food Drinks portfolio. The iconic Horlicks brand has a deep heritage, credibility and resonance around the world.

The acquisition is transformative for our Foods and Refreshment business allowing us to enter the Health Foods Drinks category, further strengthening our position in health and wellness. It is rare to be able to acquire brands with such leading market positions and fantastic consumer equity in one of the worlds most exciting and fast-growing markets.

Improving the health and wellbeing of 1 billion people by 2020 is a key pillar in our Unilever Sustainable Living Plan. Horlicks and Boost will add to our stable of purpose driven brands that help consumers to get more out of their lives.

Sanjiv Mehta, Chairman and CEO, Hindustan Unilever said: With this strategic merger of Hindustan Unilever and GSK Consumer Healthcare India Limited, we will be expanding our portfolio through great brands into a new category catering to the nutritional needs of our consumers.

I am confident that this merger will create significant shareholder value through both revenue and cost synergies. The turnover of our Foods & Refreshments business will now exceed Rs. 100bn and we will become one of the largest F&R businesses in the country.

We look forward to welcoming new brands and great talent into the Unilever and HUL family, once the transaction is complete.

Transaction and Financial Considerations

As outlined above, the transaction consists of three elements:

1. All-Equity Merger of HUL with the publicly listed GSK CH India

The merger of HUL with GSK CH India will be on the basis of an exchange ratio of 4.39 HUL shares for each GSK CH India Share.

This implies a total equity value of INR 317bn (c.3.96bn) for 100% of GSK CH India and represents a premium of c.5%, based on the 15-day VWAP of both the respective shares ending 30th November 2018. Following the issue of new HUL shares, Unilevers holding in HUL will be diluted from 67.2% to 61.9%.

The merger includes the totality of operations within GSK CH India, including a consignment selling contract to distribute GSKs Over-the-Counter and Oral Health products in India.

2. Acquisition of 82% stake in GSK Bangladesh

Unilever will acquire, for cash, 82% of the shares of the publicly listed GSK Bangladesh Limited at an equity value of BDT 16bn (c.169m), implying an EV/EBITDA multiple of c.15x.

3. Acquisition of certain other commercial operations and assets outside India

Unilever will also acquire the commercial operations in 20 other predominantly Asian markets and the intellectual property rights for a total consideration of c.470m in cash.

The total consideration for the transaction is c.4.6bn, of which Unilevers implied contribution through both cash and through the issue of shares in HUL, its listed subsidiary in India, totals c.3.3bn.

Unilever expects to achieve substantial synergies. Cost synergies are expected from a combination of supply chain efficiencies and operational improvements, go-to-market and distribution network optimisation, the benefits of scale in a number of cost areas such as marketing, and streamlining of overlapping infrastructure. The revenue growth of the HFD portfolio is expected to accelerate through leveraging Unilevers vast local distribution and selling capabilities, particularly in India.

Post synergies, the implied EV/EBITDA multiple for the transaction would be below 20x.

By utilising HUL equity to fund the Indian component of the transaction, together with the synergies outlined above, Unilever shareholders are expected to benefit from returns well in excess of the cost of capital from Year 4. In addition, the Transaction will be EPS accretive, on an underlying basis, immediately post completion.

The Transaction is subject to customary regulatory and shareholder approvals, with expected completion in c.12 months.

Sources of information and basis of calculation

The agreed share exchange ratio in the merger of GSK CH India and HUL is 4.39 HUL shares for every 1 GSK CH India share.

The 15-day VWAP on the NSE for HUL of INR 1,717.45 and GSK CH India of INR 7,196.71 ending 30th November 2018.

The following exchange rates have been used in the above calculations: 1 = INR 80.00 and 1 = BDT 97.27.Chinese and Hong Kong stocks opened more than two percent higher on Monday and the yuan strengthened after Washington and Beijing announced a truce in their escalating trade war

Shanghai, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :Chinese and Hong Kong stocks opened more than two percent higher on Monday and the Yuan strengthened after Washington and Beijing announced a truce in their escalating trade war.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index surged 2.24 percent, or 58.04 points, to 2,646.23, while the Shenzhen Composite Index, which tracks stocks on China's second exchange, rose 2.55 percent, or 34.15 points, to 1,371.89.

Hong Kong's main index climbed 2.02 percent, or 535.64 points, to 27,042.39.

The US and Chinese presidents agreed in a meeting at the G20 on Saturday to suspend any new tariffs in the escalating trade war between the world's two largest economies, which has weighed on world markets.

"The better-than-expected outcome should help reduce near-term uncertainty and improve market sentiment," Wang Tao, head of China economic research at UBS AG in Hong Kong, said in a research note.

But analysts have already issued warnings that tough negotiations still lie ahead before the core trade disputes are resolved.

"We are not yet at that happy outcome as the latest agreement does not undo all of the harm already in place," Wang said.

"Increases in tariffs have large negative effects, while resolution does not undo the harm completely as economies have difficulty bouncing back from the structural changes induced by tariffs." The White House said it would postpone for 90 days a planned January 1 increase in US tariffs on Chinese goods, while China pledged to take in more US imports.

Trump launched the bitter row earlier this year by implementing tariffs on billion of Dollars in goods from China, which he accuses of market barriers and predatory trade practices.

Beijing responded with reciprocal measures.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

ADDIS ABABA (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) , Dec 3 (AA/APP):The second edition of Djibouti International Trade Fair was launched by the country's President Ismail Omar Guelleh on Monday.

Four Turkish businesses participated in the tiny Horn of Africa country's 10-day trade fair, which attracted 310 exhibitors from around the globe.

"Exhibitors from five continents have participated in this second Djibouti International Trade Fair," President of the Djibouti Chamber of Commerce Youssouf Moussa Dawaleh told reporters.

Last year, the number of exhibitors had stood at 200 and there has been a substantial increase, according to Dawaleh, emphasizing the success of the first edition.

Dawaleh said that Turkey has been one of the main players of commercial activities in not only Djibouti, but in the region as a whole.

However, the number of exhibitors this time is low, while Turkish businesspeople participating in the trade fair blame it on the lack of promotional work at home.

Marland, a Turkish construction firm engaged in selling a line of products including carpets using high technology for manufacturing, took part in the fair for the second time.

Tolga Capraz, general manager of the company and head of Turkish Foreign Economic Relations board (DEIK), told Anadolu Agency: "There should have been a promotional work before the event to attract many Turkish companies.

Capraz said Turkey would make use of a free trade zone in Djibouti "soon".

According to Sadi Altinok, outgoing Turkish ambassador to Djibouti, land has already been allocated for the trade zone, which Turkey would soon develop.

Mohammed Amin Gok, vice chairman of sunflower oil company which produces and exports from Turkey's southern Gaziantep province, told Anadolu Agency that his company has established a good business in East Africa including Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Uganda, among others.

During the 10-day exhibition, Gok said his company "would be establishing business links and sell our brand.""We are here for business," he added.(@rukhshanmir)

Banks, credit unions and other financial institutions should adopt innovative approaches in order to combat money laundering, terrorist financing and other illicit financial threats, the US Department of the Treasury said in a news release on Monday.

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) Banks, credit unions and other financial institutions should adopt innovative approaches in order to combat money laundering, terrorist financing and other illicit financial threats, the US Department of the Treasury said in a news release on Monday.

"As money launderers and other illicit actors constantly evolve their tactics, we want the compliance community to likewise adapt their efforts to counter these threats," the release said. "We are highly encouraged by innovative steps that financial institutions have taken recently to identify and report illicit financial activity related to North Korea, Iran and other key national security and law enforcement priorities.

"

The Treasury department said that innovative pilot programs in and of themselves should not subject banks to supervisory criticism, even if the pilot programs ultimately prove unsuccessful.

US agencies are also open to engaging with banks to discuss pilot programs for innovative Bank Secrecy Act/Anti-Money Laundering approaches, the release added.

The statement is the second resulting from a working group formed by Treasury Department's Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence and the Federal depository institutions regulators aimed at improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the Bank Secrecy Act/Anti-Money Laundering regime.(@rukhshanmir)

NEW YORK, Dec 3 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :The Trump administration has stepped its airstrikes in Afghanistan in an attempt to pressure the Taliban to engage in peace talks, but a deal to end the 17-year war remains elusive, according to an American media report.

Manned and unmanned aircraft have dropped more than 10,300 bombs over Afghanistan during President Trump's first two years in office, including 4,361 in 2017 and a record 5,982 weapons as of Oct. 31, The Hill reported Sunday.

That amount of dropped munitions has not been seen since the first years of President Obama's tenure, around the start of a major surge in the country, the newspaper said, citing figures from U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).

The U.S. military under the Obama administration dropped more than 9,200 bombs on Afghanistan in the same time frame: 4,184 in 2009 and 5,100 in 2010, it said. The number peaked at a 10-year high in 2011, with roughly 5,400 dropped.

The Pentagon tapered off on strikes in Obama's last few years in office  dropping only 947 munitions in 2015 and 1,337 in 2016  before ramping back up after Trump enterred office last year.

The dramatic surge in new airstrikes under Trump is seen as a tactic to get Taliban leaders to come to the table for peace talks and bring closure to the war 17 years after a U.S.-led invasion ended the group's rule, The Hill said.

But Trump's Afghanistan strategy is faltering, experts say. With the Taliban now controlling nearly half of the country, routinely carrying out attacks on government officials and local security forces, the newspaper said.

Luke Coffey, a foreign policy expert at the conservative Heritage Foundation, a Washington-based think-tank, called the strategy a "correction from an Obama administration era policy that many in the military weren't happy about. And that was putting overly restrictive measures on the use of airstrikes." Trump brought a surge of new airstrikes to the battlefield as part of a new strategy in the country that he outlined last August that committed several thousand more troops to the fight as well  a reversal of his campaign call to swiftly withdraw from the country.

The increase in troops came with a change in the rules of engagement  a relaxation of the standards for U.S.-leed coalition troops to fire on the enemy. Now, forces no longer need to be in contact with the enemy to launch a strike.

Trump hinted at the change in the August 2017 speech, saying that he would "lift restrictions and expand authorities" for U.S. forces.

"We will also expand authorities for American armed forces to target the terrorists and criminal networks that sow violence and chaos throughout Afghanistan," Trump said at the time.

Defence Secretary James Mattis revealed such changes in October 2017 when he told the House Armed Services Committee, "We are no longer bound by the need for proximity to our forces." "It used to be we have to basically be in contact with that enemy," he told lawmakers.

Loosened restrictions on drone strikes has also played a factor in the increase in munitions dropped.

Trump has made no secret of his heavy-handed stance when it comes to airstrikes. He repeatedly called to "bomb the hell out of" the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria while on the campaign trail and in December 2015 remarked that in order to win the fight against ISIS he would "take out their families.

" And shortly after being elected, Trump reportedly asked a CIA official why the agency didn't kill a terrorist target's family during a drone strike.

The Washington Post reported that after watching a recorded video of a drone strike in Syria in which officials waited until the target was outside of his family's home, Trump asked, "Why did you wait?" But the increased air campaign points to Trump's impatience with the pace of the U.S. military mission in Afghanistan, The Hill said.

Roughly 15,000 U.S. service members are based in Afghanistan, predominantly to assist Afghan security forces against the Taliban and ISIS-aligned fighters.

The violence has been costly for the military, with three U.S. service members killed Tuesday by a roadside bomb becoming the latest casualties in the war.

The Trump administration has moved to push the Taliban to peace talks, but so far no deal has solidified.

Coffey said the airstrike increase is "part of a larger strategy of getting the Taliban to the table," and expects it will help move the needle in some way.

While he acknowledged he doesn't know how much of a connection the increase in air strikes can be drawn to new peace talks, "at the end of the day, every counterinsurgency ends with some sort of negotiated settlement." Still, such a settlement has remained elusive.

Trump indicated his frustration with the circumstances in a Tuesday interview with The Washington Post, telling the paper he was considering removing troops from the middle East.

The president said that he was only keeping a military presence in Afghanistan because "experts" told him that American forces were still needed in the region.

"We're there because virtually every expert that I have and speak to say if we don't go there, they're going to be fighting over here," Trump said. "And I've heard it over and over again." Coffey brushed the comments aside, noting that Trump "always says this stuff." "He's always suggesting things and you never know until he makes a final decision," he said, adding, "I don't think the U.S. is going to be pulling out completely from Afghanistan anytime soon." The administration, hoping to bring about a faster political settlement, has agreed to the Taliban's demands to hold direct talks.

U.S. special envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad has moved quickly to reach out to as many top Taliban figures as possible in an attempt to start such discussions before the president orders a troop pullout without an end to the conflict, NBC news reported last week.

The quick diplomatic speed was due to the assumption that Trump will pull troops out of in Afghanistan before the 2020 U.S. presidential election.

Trump, meanwhile, told The Post that negotiations are ongoing with the Taliban, but did not give additional details such as a timeline for talks.

"They would like to see it after all these years, and we'll see what happens," he said. "A little bit too early to say what's going to happen. But we are talking about things."ISLAMABAD, Dec 3 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :As envisioned by the incumbent government to eradicate land grabbing and illegal occupation from Federal capital, a grand operation was conducted Sunday's night in area of Noon Police Station, a police spokesman Monday said.

He said this action was taken on a complaint received to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad by a citizen that a land grabbers group had kidnapped him and threatened to kill him. On his complaint, the IGP Islamabad ordered immediate registration of case and to take action against the culprits.

According to the orders of IGP Islamabad, police registered a case under Anti-Terrorism Act and police teams headed by SP (Industrial Area) Hassam Bin Iqbal conducted grand operation against land grabbers last night in the area of Noon Police Station.

During this operation, land grabber threatened police teams and opened fire, but police teams apprehended 42 accused and also recovered heavy weapons along with ammunition from their possession. Another case under anti-terrorism act has also been registered against them.

Meanwhile, Koral police have registered a case under Anti-Terrorism Act on complaint received by a citizen namely Tauqeer s/o Muhammad Dil Nawaz and arrested three land grabbers identified as Rizwan Butt s/o Abdul Rehman Butt r/o Tarlai, Islamabad, Siddique Butt s/o Haji Muhammad Ramzan and Imran Butt s/of Haji Abdul Rehman. Police has also recovered weapons along with ammunition from their possession.

IGP Islamabad Muhammad Aamir Zulfiqar Khan has categorically ordered all police officers to start crackdown against land grabbers in the Capital. He said that our prime responsibility is to protect the lives and property of citizens and all out efforts would be taken in this regard.

He said some police officials having contacts and relationships with those land grabbers have also been suspended and departmental inquiries have been initiated.

Aamir Zulfiqar Khan said citizens can contact him through email about any complaint regarding land grabbing, drugs and complaints against police officers/officials at ig.ict.at.your.service@gmail.com on which immediate action would be taken.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina Brigadier General (retd) Sakib Foric on Monday said his country was keen to strengthen ties with Pakistan in the field of military cooperation and defence production.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina Brigadier General (retd) Sakib Foric on Monday said his country was keen to strengthen ties with Pakistan in the field of military cooperation and defence production.

"We want to enhance the existing $20 million bilateral cooperation with Pakistan in the field of defence industry particularity ammunition and other weaponry," Ambassador Foric told APP at an event here.

Sakib Foric, who has previously served in the Bosnian armed forces as Operational Commandant, said he recently visited the IDEAS Defence Expo held in Karachi and added that the two countries could greatly explore the potential in this field.

He also emphasized increasing strategic cooperation in the field of defence industry.(@FahadShabbir)

Supreme Court on Monday directed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government to submit progress report on disposal of medical waste from public hospitals, after two months.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :Supreme Court on Monday directed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government to submit progress report on disposal of medical waste from public hospitals, after two months.

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar resumed hearing of the suo moto case pertaining to public hospitals condition in KP.

During course of proceedings, Chief Justice of Pakistan asked from KP Secretary Health whether he visited the Peshawar Mental Hospital to which he replied "yes I did it last week".

Justice Nisar said, "humans are kept in worse conditions than animals in the hospitals adding that I got samples from my visit and expired medicines were given over there".

To this Secretary Health replied and said, "We took measures for the improvement and after CJP's visit, all those medicines which were not available that time, now available to the patients.

"I would visit in three to four days and see what improvement has been made", CJ added.

Meanwhile, the provincial health secretary informed the bench that 4,000kg of medical waste is produced daily from the 63 public hospitals in KP and machines can only dispose off 3,600kgs of waste.

Justice Ijazul Ahsan remarked, "Even now, 480kgs of medical waste is not disposed in KP hospitals.

To this the provincial health secretary said, "We will try our best to make sure the matter will be resolved by June next year.(@rukhshanmir)

Two people were killed when their car was attacked by armed men in Sukkur on Monday.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :Two people were killed when their car was attacked by armed men in Sukkur on Monday.

According to police sources the incident occurred due to old dispute in the area of Pano Aqil in Sukkur, reported a private news channel.

The sources said the deceased identified as Asghar and Jalal were going to court for hearing of a case when they were attacked by the armed men.

The sources said after incident the culprits flew away.

Police further said the report has been filed and bodies were shifted to a nearby hospital.(@mahnoorsheikh03)

The Chinese boy met Pakistani girl on Facebook and came all the way from China to marry her.

Muridke (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News  3rd December, 2018) A Chinese national took Pak-China friendship to another level when he came to Muridke to marry a Pakistani girl on Monday.

The Chinese boy met Pakistani girl on Facebook and came all the way from China to marry her.

Pakistani girl Maham and Chinas Mr Li became friends on Facebook. They gradually fell in love and Li came to Pakistan to marry Maham, who belongs to a Christian family in Muridke.

The wedding was held in a traditional way, according to Christian customs. The wedding ceremony was held in a church of Muridke.

Close friends and relatives of the couple attended the wedding. The guests expressed their love and extended best wishes for the couple in the wedding ceremony, strengthening Pak-China friendship even more.

Expressing their happiness on the occasion, the couple said that they are setting a new precedent with this wedding and strengthening the friendship of the two neighbouring countries.

In August, a Chinese man came to Sargodha and expressed his liking for the Pakistani girl and tied the knot with her.

Earlier in April, another Chinese guy married a girl in Sargodha after friendship on Facebook. The Chinese guy had fell in love with Facebook friend Shama, belonging to Sarghoda, and came from China along with his sister to marry her.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

ISLAMABAD, Dec 2 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Chaudhry Fawad Hussain on Sunday said the government had nothing to do with the affairs of National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

He dispelled the misperception being created by the opposition that NAB was targeting their leadership. The ministers and advisors were also being summoned by the Bureau, who also fully cooperated in the investigations, he said while talking to a news channel.

He said if NAB filed a reference against any government office bearer, he / she would have to quit the office. He cited the example of Babar Awan, who resigned as advisor after a reference was filed against him.

He said the government wanted to amend the laws relating to NAB only to make it more powerful and independent to hold the corrupt accountable and bring back the looted national wealth to the exchequer.

On the other hand, the opposition was not sincere in that regard as they only wanted to make NAB toothless only to get scot free with stolen public money, he added.

Replying to a question, he said due to the 18th Constitutional Amendment, the standard of education and health sectors had declined, and the government wanted to improve many of its clauses, which at the time it was not a priority. Pakistan Peoples Party leader Asif Ali Zardari, he said, was creating a hype on the issue only for political benefits. It was because of his policies, the PPP once the symbol of federation, had been confined to one province, he added.

To another query, he said the government would accept the Supreme Court's decision in the case pertaining to Azam Swati. They, however, were not satisfied with the report of joint investigation team. Azam Swati and the aggrieved family had reached a mutual settlement, he added.

Fawad said there was no moral ground for the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) to demand chairmanship of the Public Accounts Committee. How it was possible that Shehbaz Sharif would hold audit of the projects which were launched by his big brother Nawaz Sharif, he questioned.

Unlike other provinces, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa its assembly speaker had been appointing the PAC chairman for the last 30 years, he added.

He said the PML-N was responsible for delay in establishment of standing committees of the National Assembly due to its uncalled for demand regarding the PAC. The opposition in fact wanted to create a state of uncertainty in the country.

He, however, expressed the hope that the matter regarding the committees would be resolved before the NA session as Minister of Defence Pervez Khattak was holding talks with the opposition leaders.

He said Prime Minister Imran Khan would attend the next NA session.

He said the government was going to introduce a modern local bodies system in the country with focus on devolution of powers.

To a question, he said the leadership of Tehreek Labaik Pakistan had incited the people on rebellion against the state, which could not be accepted.The federal government has decided to recruit more than 2,200 educated Baloch youth in National Highways and Motorway Police (NH&MP).

ISLAMABAD,(UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :The Federal government has decided to recruit more than 2,200 educated Baloch youth in National Highways and Motorway Police (NH&MP).

The Minister of State for Communications Murad Saeed said that the development of Baluchistan was top priorities of Prime Minister Imran Khan, said a press release issued here on Monday.

The state minister said that as per the rules, the Baluchistan province has merely six percent share in jobs; however, for the first time in history, a decision has been made to recruit hundreds of employees from a smaller province in the federal departments.

The minister said that more than 2,200 posts were lying vacant in NH&MP, which would be filled by the Communication Ministry with educated Baloch youth only.

Murad Saeed said that Baloch youth were no less than the people in other parts of the country in education and capabilities.

He said that the government was committed to provide maximum opportunities to Baloch youth in every sector of the society.(@FahadShabbir)

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :The Islamabad High Court (IHC) Monday directed the National Accountability Court (NAB) to produce the inquiry record regarding cases of Zulfi Bukhari by Tuesday.

A divisional bench of IHC comprising Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Mohsin Akhter Kyani heard the case filed by Zulfi Bukhari challenging inclusion of his name in the Exit Control List (ECL).

The petitioner's counsel Sikander Bashir contended before the court that travel rights of his client had been usurped due to his name on the ECL.

He prayed the court to reverse the decision of putting Bukhari's name on the ECL.

During the course of hearing, the bench expressed displeasure over some remarks of the petitioner's counsel.

Justice Kiyani said NAB had summoned Bukhari four times. Why once his name was removed from the ECL, he asked.

The court directed the NAB to produce the documents allowing Bukhari to travel abroad once.

The court also sought the inquiry record regarding cases of Zulfi Bukhari and adjourned the case till Tuesday.State Minister for Interior Shehryar Afridi Monday said all those persons who had constructed encroachments and occupied the State's land would not be spared.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :State Minister for Interior Shehryar Afridi Monday said all those persons who had constructed encroachments and occupied the State's land would not be spared.

While visiting Tarnol's anti-encroachemnt operation, he endorsed to continue the anti-encroachment drive till demolish the last encroachment in the twin cities, reported ptv news.

He said the country's institutions were national assets and to secure these assets, the government would go to its last limit.

He further said government did not allow any person to use the state property for growing their own bussiness.

He said the poor and rich were on same page for the government and no one was allowed to disobey the law.

Responding to a question, he said government would fulfill its all promises and no one could stop the way of progress.

Responding to another question regarding Tarnol encroachment, he said the government had recovered 870 kanal land cost of Rs 120 billion so far from the land mafia.The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) prosecutor Monday concluded his final arguments in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption reference against the Sharif family.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :The National Accountability Bureau NAB ) prosecutor Monday concluded his final arguments in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption reference against the Sharif family

The Accountability Court-II of Islamabad Judge Arshad Malik directed defence counsel Khawaja Haris to start his arguments in the above reference on Tuesday Accused former prime minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif did not appear before the court and sought a one-day exemption from hearing.

Continuing his arguments, NAB prosecutor Wasiq Malik informed the court that there were contradictions between two letters sent by Qatari Prince Hammad bin Jassim during the investigation of the case. There was no signature of the Qatri prince on the work sheet presented along with his second letter.

He said according to the letters, 12 million AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham) were never remitted to Qatar for purchasing the Avenfield property.

At this, the judge observed that Khawaja Haris would answer the point in his turn. He questioned whether the letters held any worth if the witness (Qatri prince) had not come to Pakistan to verify them.

Wasiq Malik said the name of Hussain Nawaz, son of Nawaz Sharif, was mentioned in the sale agreement of Al-Azizia Steel Mills. The accused did not provide details regarding the mills' establishment. The information was deliberately kept under wrap to misguide the investigators, he contended.

To a query by the judge, the prosecutor said the accused were of the view that the profit earned from the 12 million AED investment had been collected from 1980 to 2000.

He said that accused did not provide any evidence regarding purchase of machinery from Ahli Steel Mills.

Nawaz's sons were shown as beneficiaries of all the foreign investment made by the former prime minister, he added.

The prosecutor said during investigations, Hussain Nawaz never cited the money transfer to his father as gift. All the accused had deep connection with one another. The two sons Hassan and Hussain Nawaz had never claimed that they had made investment at their own, rather Nawaz Sharif had transferred his assets in their Names after he joined politics.

Another NAB prosecutor Imran Shafiq argued that in a case pertaining to assets beyond known sources of income the burden of proof was with the accused persons. He cited legal references of several countries including India, Hang Kong and others pertaining to the cases of assets beyond known sources of income.

He also gave the example of Caliph Hazrat Umer Farooq, who had presented himself for accountability when a question was asked about stitching of his dress.

NAB prosecutor Akram Qureshi said the accused should have presented the money trail if there was any. The accused did not present any evidence which showed that Hassan and Hussain Nawaz were the dependents of their grandfather, he maintained.

The AC judge asked whether the former prime minister had changed his lawyer during the proceedings ofthe references. At times the change of lawyer resulted in change of statements, he said, adding that it had become a norm to tell lies before the courts.

After the prosecution concluded its arguments, the court adjourned the case till Tuesday.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Ambassador of Nepal Ms. Sewa Lamsal Adhikari has stressed the need to initiate direct flights between Pakistan and Nepal to bring the people and business communities closer.

KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :Ambassador of Nepal Ms. Sewa Lamsal Adhikari has stressed the need to initiate direct flights between Pakistan and Nepal to bring the people and business communities closer.

Sewa Lamsal Adhikari said while speaking in a meeting which was also attended by Honorary Consul General of Nepal Mushtaq Chappra, President KCCI Junaid Esmail Makda, Vice President Asif Sheikh Javaid, Chairman of Fairs, Exhibitions & Trade Delegations Subcommittee Naveed Farooki and KCCI Managing Committee Members, said a statement on Monday.

She stressed a need to identify the potential sectors in both countries to improve trade and investment ties.

Sewa Adhikari advised the business community of Karachi to visit Nepal to further explore opportunities to enhance trade ties with their counterparts in Nepal.

She said that Nepal wants to improve trade ties with Pakistan and the Nepalese Embassy would fully facilitate all the future endeavors of business community of Karachi.

'Nepal has been producing good quality big cardamoms which are being exported to numerous countries, she said'.

President KCCI Junaid Esmail Makda, in his remarks, stated that Nepalese businessmen are comfortable in doing business with their Pakistani counterparts.

He said that the KCCI is willing to send a business delegation to Nepal with a view to explore new avenues for enhancing trade.

Identifying some of the potential sectors, he mentioned that tea consumption was highest in Pakistan whereas Nepal was the finest tea producer that can create trade opportunity between the two countries, he said.

He said that direct air link between Nepal and Pakistan increased exchange of business delegations and establishment of display centers in each others' countries which will boost the trade ties and enable both the countries to enjoy increased profits.KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :The police have arrested a suspect from Bahadrabad area of the city and recovered a cache of weapons buried in a park.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ghulam Azfar Mahesar, in a statement on Sunday, said the suspect, Naseem alias Builder, was arrested in a police encounter at Tipu Sultan Road.

He said on the information retrieved from the suspect the police recovered a long-range sniper rifle, a silencer-fitted kilashnikov and four pistols buried in Kidney Hill Park.

The SSP said the suspect belongs to the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-London (MQM-L).KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 2nd Dec, 2018 ) :Sindhi Culture Day was celebrated with enthusiasm in Karachi on Sunday, as rallies and other cultural programmes were organised to mark the day.

People of all ages, including women and children, attired in Sindhi cultural dresses with Ajrak and Sindhi cap participated in the rallies and other cultural programmes in large numbers.

The main event to celebrate Sindhi Culture Day was organised outside the Karachi Press Club which was also participated by women and children in large number to express their love for Sindhi culture.

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) also took out a rally in the metropolis to observe Sindhi Cultural Day.

The rally was led by PTI leader Haleem Adil Sheikh from Insaf House to Governor House.

Addressing the participants of the rally, Sindh Governor Imran Ismail said Sindh is the land of Sufis and saints who always preached love, peace, unity and harmony.

Imran Ismail said there is a need to promote the Sufis' message of love and peace. He said people of Sindh have great love and passion for its culture.

This year Sindhi Culture Day's theme is "Aekta" which means unity.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

SARGODHA, Dec 3 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) ::A teenaged maid was injured critically as she was tortured by her employers here in Cantonment police limits on Monday.

Police said that Tanzeela Bibi (14) was working as house-maid at the house of one Saeed Niazi, Manager of a private bank for the last one year.

Talking to media here, the victim Tanzeela alleged that she was tortured severely with iron rods and hot water by the owner of the house and wife for allegedly stealing a gold ring.

Tanzeela said Saeed Niazi and Uzma threw her at Bus stand Sargodha in critical condition.

Police started investigation.The European Union is less willing to support journalists who either work or are in contact with the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics in eastern Ukraine, EU Parliament member from Latvia Miroslavs Mitrofanovs told Sputnik on Monday when asked why Brussels remained silent about the arrest of the head of the RIA Novosti Ukraine news portal, Kirill Vyshinsky.

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) The European Union is less willing to support journalists who either work or are in contact with the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics in eastern Ukraine, EU Parliament member from Latvia Miroslavs Mitrofanovs told Sputnik on Monday when asked why Brussels remained silent about the arrest of the head of the RIA Novosti Ukraine news portal, Kirill Vyshinsky.

Vyshinsky was detained in Kiev on May 15 on suspicion of supporting the self-proclaimed republics of Donbas and treason.

"People who have suffered because of their support for these regions, they get, let's say, less support ... It is really hard to convince even European Parliament members from liberal fractions to help them," Mitrofanov said.

The European Union's attitude toward people who have been in contact with regions that "disobey Ukraine's central authorities" is different because "the position of the majority of the [political] establishment of the European Union is to refuse to recognize these regions," he added.

Andrey Suzdaltsev, the deputy dean at the Faculty of World Economy and International Affairs of Russia's Higher school of Economics, told Sputnik that he believed that the decision to arrest the journalist had been made personally by Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko.

"Poroshenko was the one who made this decision. Because RIA Novosti is a state news agency, they [the Ukrainian authorities] see it as serving the Kremlin, which means that it [the arrest] was aimed at hitting the Kremlin," Suzdaltsev stressed.

Given the charges, Vyshinsky may face up to 15 years in prison. In early November, Russian upper house speaker Valentina Matviyenko said that the journalist's condition had seriously deteriorated while in custody.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that Vyshinsky's arrest was politically motivated, adding that the incident demonstrated an unprecedented and unacceptable policy of Ukrainian authorities targeting journalists who were doing their job.

Harlem Desir, the representative on freedom of the media at the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, has also expressed his concern over Ukraine's actions toward Vyshinsky, urging for the journalist's release.MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) The stalled denuclearization talks between the United States and Pyongyang could be revived if US humanitarian businesses are allowed to operate in North Korea, Moon Chung-in, a special South Korean presidential adviser for unification, foreign and security affairs, said on Monday.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in has said earlier that it was possible to reward Pyongyang's denuclearization efforts without sanctions relief.

"Many American citizens wish to conduct humanitarian businesses in North Korea, but cannot due to government restrictions. Relieving those restrictions could send a fairly positive message to North Korea," the adviser said as quoted by Yonhap news Agency.

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump met with his South Korean counterpart on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina and discussed the latest developments on the Korean Peninsula.

The two leaders expressed their commitment to achieving the full and verifiable denuclearization of North Korea and maintaining sanctions on Pyongyang until it gave up its nuclear weapons program.

The situation on the Korean Peninsula has improved since the beginning of this year, with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un engaging in a dialogue with both Moon and Trump. During their landmark summit in June, Kim and Trump agreed that Pyongyang would make efforts toward denuclearization in exchange for the United States freezing its joint military drills with South Korea as well as potential sanctions relief.

The nuclear talks, however, have stalled, with Pyongyang demanding sanctions relief and Washington wanting North Korea to take more denuclearization measures.An Australian was among hundreds of pro-Papuan independence activists arrested across Indonesia at the weekend, police and rights groups said Monday.

Jakarta, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :An Australian was among hundreds of pro-Papuan independence activists arrested across Indonesia at the weekend, police and rights groups said Monday.

Some 233 activists, including Australian Ronda Amy Harman, were detained late Saturday in Indonesia's second-largest city Surabaya, East Java police spokesman Frans Barung Mangera told AFP.

Local media reported that the arrests were made at a student dormitory.

They were among more than 500 activists swept up in a nationwide police crackdown that coincided with rallies on December 1, a date many Papuans consider should be the anniversary of their independence from the Dutch.

Papua declared itself an independent nation on that date in 1961, but neighbouring Indonesia took control of the region by force in 1963. It officially annexed Papua in 1969 with a UN-backed vote, widely seen as a sham.

No one was formally charged in the Surabaya arrests including Harman, Mangera said, adding that the 35-year-old woman was reported to immigration officials.

A spokesperson at the Australian embassy in Jakarta could not immediately be reached for comment.

The arrests followed a rally in which counter protestors threw stones at around 300 Papuans, injuring 16 people, Amnesty International said.

Rights groups have blasted authorities for the mass detentions, saying it was an assault on Papuans' right to freedom of expression and assembly.

"These people did nothing but peacefully attend public events," Amnesty International Indonesia's executive director Usman Hamid said in a statement.

"These arbitrary arrests add to the long list of acts of harassment, intimidation and arrests faced by Papuans."Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Panama -- which broke ties with Taiwan last year and switched its allegiance to Beijing -- for a visit aimed at extending his country's political and economic influence in Latin America.

Panama City, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Panama -- which broke ties with Taiwan last year and switched its allegiance to Beijing -- for a visit aimed at extending his country's political and economic influence in Latin America.

Xi is set to meet Monday with Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela, and sign an array of cooperation agreements. He will also meet with business leaders and visit the Panama Canal's new Cocoli Locks.

In a column written for the Estrella de Panama, a local newspaper, Xi said he had "high expectations" for the visit, the first ever by a Chinese leader to the country.

"We must be cooperative partners of mutual benefit and shared profits," wrote Xi, who arrived in Panama late Sunday from Argentina, where he attended the G20 summit.

Beijing hopes that Panama can be a logistics hub for the expansion of trade in Latin America and the Caribbean -- an idea that the business community here has fully embraced.

"Panama usually generates a lot of interest because of its strategic location in the region and because of the canal," Severo Sousa, president of the National Business Council (Conep), told AFP.

These factors -- along with Panama's political stability, growing economy and deep financial network -- are "very attractive" to China, Sousa added.

China is the second-biggest user of the Panama Canal after the United States.

Varela's government is hoping that Beijing will make multi-million-dollar investments in infrastructure projects. The two countries are negotiating a free trade agreement.

In June 2017, Panama established diplomatic relations with China, breaking off ties with Taiwan.

China and Taiwan have been governed separately since the end of a civil war on the mainland in 1949, but Beijing sees the island as part of its territory awaiting reunification.

Beijing and Taipei have been engaged for years in a diplomatic tug-of-war in developing countries, with aid and economic support often used as bargaining chips to gain diplomatic recognition.

Washington, which has accused the Chinese of trying to use aid to drive a wedge between Taipei and its Western Hemisphere partners, recalled its envoy to Panama City in September this year.

Varela, who visited China last year, promptly asked the US to respect his country's sovereignty.The visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Panama will further accelerate the development of bilateral ties which has already got off to a strong start, Xinhua said on Monday.

BEIJING, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :The visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Panama will further accelerate the development of bilateral ties which has already got off to a strong start, Xinhua said on Monday.

The bond between Chinese and Panamanians was forged over 160 years ago, when the first group of Chinese labourers arrived in Panama and made indelible contributions to the construction of the Panama Canal. But it was not until in 2017 that the old acquaintances were declared as formal friends based on the one-China policy.

According to Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela, establishing diplomatic ties with China was "the right thing to do." The decision was lauded by Xi as "a feat of a hero." Bilateral cooperation has been efficient since then and initial achievements were made in the past a year and half.

Direct flight, with a stopover in Houston, has linked Beijing and Panama City. Feasibility studies are underway for building a rail line connecting the Panamanian capital with the west coast province of Chiriqui, to facilitate cargo shipments.

The two sides are negotiating on a free trade agreement, and stepping up efforts to both grease the wheels for the flow of goods, and ease visa application process in a reciprocal way to promote tourism.

Panama was also the first Latin American country to have signed a memorandum of understanding with China to promote the Belt and Road Initiative.

The driving force behind such a strong partnership is not only market demands, but also the common will for win-win development.

Under such circumstances, Xi's historic visit to Panama is expected to further consolidate the political mutual trust between the two countries and inject fresh impetus into the bilateral relationship.

The year of 2018 carries a significant symbolic meaning for China as it marks the 40th anniversary of its reform and opening up endeavor. China now seeks deepened economic reform and is launching more measures to further open up to the world.

Both staunch supporters of free trade, China and Panama are eyeing a more prolific future.

Currently, dozens of Chinese companies are investing in Panama in areas such as ports and highway construction, energy, retail sales and automobiles.

Panama also expressed its willingness to play an ambitious role in expanding the Belt and Road Initiative -- which originally envisioned developing a modern time Silk Road to bolster trade between Asia, the middle East, Africa and Europe -- to Latin America.

Xi's visit at this moment will create an opportunity for the two sides to nail down more practical cooperation plans under the framework of the initiative and beyond.

It is also expected that the two leaders will map out a clear blueprint for cooperation between the two countries.

With such proactive efforts and goodwill gesture, the China-Panama friendship will set off on a new course and usher in an even brighter new chapter.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov laid a wreath on Monday at the "Russians Meet Americans at the Elbe" bas-relief at the World War II memorial in Washington, DC.

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov laid a wreath on Monday at the "Russians Meet Americans at the Elbe" bas-relief at the World War II memorial in Washington , DC.

The ceremony marked the Day of the Unknown Soldier, which Russia has commemorated since 2014 in memory of Soviet and Russian troops killed on its territory and abroad.

Antonov laid the wreath in commemoration of the historical meeting between Soviet and US troops at the Elbe River near the town of Torgau in Germany in April 1945.

"Today, we are commemorating the memory of the Unknown Soldiers," Antonov said. "Millions and millions of our citizens of the Soviet Union - Armenians, Georgians, Ukrainians, Tajiks, Belarusians - gave their lives for our country during the war."

The Russian envoy noted that the locations of many of graves are still unknown.

"I think all of us, who live today thanks to those killed during the war, have to bow our heads and pay the tribute to these people," the ambassador said.

The World War II memorial, located at the National Mall just several blocks from the White House, was opened in May 2004 and dedicated to more than 400,000 US soldiers killed during the war.

The meeting between US and Soviet troops at the Elbe River is considered a key milestone in ending World War II. The two sides converged at the river as the Soviet military advanced against Nazi forces from the east and the US military and allied forces advanced from the west.

Armenian diplomats also laid a wreath at the Spirit of Elbe memorial while diplomats from other Commonwealth of Independence States members, representatives of Russian diaspora, US-Russian organizations and a group of children laid bouquets of flowers.(@rukhshanmir)

The European Union is less willing to support journalists who either work or are in contact with the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics in eastern Ukraine, EU Parliament member from Latvia Miroslavs Mitrofanovs told Sputnik on Monday when asked why Brussels remained silent about the arrest of the head of the RIA Novosti Ukraine news portal, Kirill Vyshinsky.

BRUSSELS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) The European Union is less willing to support journalists who either work or are in contact with the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics in eastern Ukraine, EU Parliament member from Latvia Miroslavs Mitrofanovs told Sputnik on Monday when asked why Brussels remained silent about the arrest of the head of the RIA Novosti Ukraine news portal, Kirill Vyshinsky.

Vyshinsky was detained in Kiev on May 15 on suspicion of supporting the self-proclaimed republics of Donbas and treason.

"People who have suffered because of their support for these regions, they get, let's say, less support ... It is really hard to convince even European Parliament members from liberal fractions to help them," Mitrofanov said.

The European Union's attitude toward people who have been in contact with regions that "disobey Ukraine's central authorities" is different because "the position of the majority of the [political] establishment of the European Union is to refuse to recognize these regions," he added.

Andrey Suzdaltsev, the deputy dean at the Faculty of World Economy and International Affairs of Russia's Higher school of Economics, told Sputnik that he believed that the decision to arrest the journalist had been made personally by Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that Vyshinsky's arrest was politically motivated, adding that the incident demonstrated an unprecedented and unacceptable policy of Ukrainian authorities targeting journalists who were doing their job.

Harlem Desir, the representative on freedom of the media at the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, has also expressed his concern over Ukraine's actions toward Vyshinsky, urging for the journalist's release.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and head of the Hamas Political Bureau Ismail Haniyeh held on Monday a phone conversation, during which they discussed the recent developments in Palestine, the Iranian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and head of the Hamas Political Bureau Ismail Haniyeh held on Monday a phone conversation, during which they discussed the recent developments in Palestine , the Iranian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

On Thursday, the UN General Assembly is expected to vote on a draft resolution that was proposed by the United States and seeks to condemn Hamas rocket attacks against Israel.

"Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Hamas Political Bureau, have held a phone conversation on the latest developments of Palestine. During the Monday call, Haniyeh referred to the US attempts to introduce a draft resolution at the United Nations General Assembly to condemn the Palestinian resistance movement, and called on the Islamic Republic of Iran to express its opposition to the move," the statement said.

During the conversation Zarif pointed out that Iran would continue its support for the rights of Palestinians.

"He also expressed regret that the policies adopted by certain regional states have emboldened the US to not only violate the international rights by moving its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem al-Quds [Jerusalem], but also to introduce a draft resolution against Palestine's Islamic resistance at the United Nations General Assembly," the statement added.

Zarif told Haniyeh that Tehran would do everything possible to unite efforts of all Muslim states at the UN General Assembly to prevent ratification of the US-drafted resolution.

Violence between Israel and the Hamas militant group, which runs the Gaza Strip, erupted last month after a Hamas commander was killed in a covert Israeli operation. An Israeli officer also died in the ensuing gunfight. The Israeli military said it had intercepted over 100 out of 460 rockets fired from Gaza and attacked 160 militant targets in the enclave. The violence significantly decreased after a new ceasefire agreement was reached under Egypt's mediation.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

An Israeli military court on Monday slapped a Palestinian youth with a 17-year jail term for allegedly stabbing a settler, according to a Palestinian NGO.

RAMALLAH, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :An Israeli military court on Monday slapped a Palestinian youth with a 17-year jail term for allegedly stabbing a settler, according to a Palestinian NGO.

Tamer Khodeir, 29, was sentenced to 17 years in prison, the Palestinian Prisoner Club said in a statement.

Khodeir was arrested in October 2015 for involvement in the stabbing attack that took place in Ariel settlement in the occupied West Bank.

According to Palestinian figures, some 6,500 Palestinians continue to languish in Israeli detention facilities, including scores of women and hundreds of minors.MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) Israel will continue developing relations with Arab and Muslim countries amid the existence of common problems and threats, including the fight against terrorism and the Iranian problem, and such a rapprochement can help in resolving the Palestinian issue, Israeli Foreign Ministry's spokesman Emmanuel Nahshon told Sputnik in an interview.

"Well, for Israel this is a very important development, and we believe its going to continue, and we will see closer ties between Israel and the Arab world. Many countries and many governments in the Arab world recognize that Israel is not only a problem for them, but actually it's part of solution, is how to fight the enemy in the region which is Iran, and the Islamic terrorism," Nahshon said.

According to Nahshon, the normalization of relations between Israel and other countries of the region is beneficial to all, as countries should jointly discuss those general issues that have nothing to do with Iran, such as the problems of global warming and water resources.

Nahshon also reaffirmed that improving Israel's relations with Arab countries will have a positive impact on the Palestinian issue and the peace process.

"This is totally our hope, the Palestinians need to understand that they can no longer use the Arab countries as an enemies of Israel, and I think this is a moment now for the Palestinians to return to negotiation table," the spokesman added.

Israel and the majority of Arab states in the middle East do not have diplomatic relations. However, Israel and a number of regional states countries, in particular Saudi Arabia, are reportedly involved in regular unofficial contacts on the political, military and economic levels.

In late November, media reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was planning to visit Bahrain. In October, Netanyahu visited Oman even though the countries have no diplomatic ties.(@rukhshanmir)

Rabat, Dec 3 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :Morocco's King Mohammed VI on Monday visited Gabon's President Ali Bongo at a military hospital in Rabat where the Gabonese leader is recovering from an illness, an official source said.

During the visit, the king said he was pleased about the state of Bongo's health which he said was getting better by the day, according to the Moroccan source.

The Moroccan Royal Palace issued a handout picture of King Mohammed sitting next to Bongo who was smiling at him and dressed in a turban and djellaba robe.

The publication of the photo comes after persistent rumours over the health of the Gabonese president for more than a month.

Bongo was flown to Morocco on Thursday from Saudi Arabia where he had been in hospital since October 24 after falling ill at an economic forum.

After an extended period of silence, the Gabonese presidency eventually admitted last month that Bongo was "seriously ill" and had undergone surgery, but said he was on the mend.

His recovery would take weeks, or even days, a source in the presidency said last week.

A lack of official news -- along with memories of the secrecy-shrouded death of Bongo's father Omar Bongo in 2009 after decades at the helm -- had sparked numerous rumours, including speculation he was incapacitated or even dead.

The Bongo family has governed Gabon for five decades.

Ali Bongo was elected head of state after his father's death.

He was narrowly re-elected in 2016 after beating opposition challenger Jean Ping by a few thousand votes following a presidential poll marred by deadly violence and allegations of fraud.Rabat, Dec 3 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 4th Dec, 2018 ) :Morocco's King Mohammed VI on Monday visited Gabon's President Ali Bongo at a military hospital in Rabat where the Gabonese leader is recovering from an illness, an official source said.

During the visit, the king said he was pleased about the state of Bongo's health which he said was improving by the day, according to the Moroccan source.

Bongo thanked the king for "his warm welcome and attention" since the president's arrival in the Moroccan capital, the royal palace said.

The palace issued a handout picture of King Mohammed sitting next to Bongo who was smiling at him and dressed in a turban and djellaba robe.

The publication of the photo and the subsequent release of a video of the encounter come after persistent rumours over the health of the Gabonese president for more than a month.

Bongo was flown to Morocco on Thursday from Saudi Arabia where he had been in hospital since October 24 after falling ill at an economic forum.

After an extended period of silence, the Gabonese presidency eventually admitted last month that Bongo was "seriously ill" and had undergone surgery, but said he was on the mend.

His recovery would take weeks, or even days, a source in the presidency said last week.

A lack of official news -- along with memories of the secrecy-shrouded death of Bongo's father Omar Bongo in 2009 after decades at the helm -- had sparked numerous rumours, including speculation he was incapacitated or even dead.

The Bongo family has governed Gabon for five decades.

Ali Bongo was elected head of state after his father's death.

He was narrowly re-elected in 2016 after beating opposition challenger Jean Ping by a few thousand votes following a presidential poll marred by deadly violence and allegations of fraud.MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) More than 700 Syrian refugees have returned to their home country from Jordan and Lebanon over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry's Center for the Reception, Allocation and Accommodation of Refugees said on Monday.

"Over the past day, in total, 718 people returned to the Syrian Arab Republic from the territory of foreign states: 172 people (52 women and 88 children) left Lebanon for Syria via the Jaydet-Yabus and Talkalakh CPs [checkpoints], and 546 people (164 women and 279 children) from Jordan via the Nassib CP," the center said in its daily bulletin.

The center added that 958 internally displaced Syrians had returned to their homes in Eastern Ghouta, Deir ez-Zor and Damascus provinces over the given period.

According to the bulletin, the Syrian engineering units also defused 34 explosive devices in the provinces of Homs, Damascus and Quneitra.

As the Syrian government has regained control over most of the country's territories that were seized by terrorists, it is now focused on creating favorable conditions for repatriating refugees. Moscow is assisting Damascus in this process, along with providing humanitarian aid to civilians and being a guarantor of the ceasefire.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

The fourth round of the Russian-Vietnamese strategic dialogue on defense at the level of deputy heads of defense ministries was held on Monday in Moscow, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) The fourth round of the Russian-Vietnamese strategic dialogue on defense at the level of deputy heads of defense ministries was held on Monday in Moscow , the Russian Defense Ministry said.

The round was attended by Russian Deputy Defense Minister Col. Gen. Alexander Fomin and Vietnamese Deputy Defense Minister Senior Lieutenant General Nguyen Chi Vinh.

"There was an exchange of views on security issues in the Asia-Pacific region. The sides discussed the current state of the Russian-Vietnamese military relations and the prospects for their development, taking into account the cross-year of Russia in Vietnam and Vietnam in Russia scheduled for 2019," a representative of the ministry told reporters.

The meeting was held in a friendly atmosphere and demonstrated a mutual commitment toward accelerating and developing bilateral relations in the area of defense, according to the representative.MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 04th December, 2018) Russian Ambassador to Yemen Vladimir Dedushkin on Monday commended the parties to Yemeni conflict for agreeing to take part in the upcoming peace talks in Sweden.

"It is gratifying that both parties to the conflict confirmed their readiness to arrive in Sweden at the set time and take part in the negotiation process. [UN] Special Envoy [Martin Griffiths] has managed to organize preparatory events," Dedushkin told reporters.

The ambassador noted that the meeting will "approximately" take place on December 5-14 and will be held near the town of Uppsala, which is not far from Stockholm.

Earlier in the day, Mukhtar Rahbi, an adviser to the Yemeni minister of information, told Sputnik that the delegations of Yemen's government and of the Houthi movement will hold "individual" consultations at the peace talks in Sweden rather than direct negotiations, and will focus on "building confidence."

Fadl Abu Talib, a member of the political bureau of the Houthi movement, told Sputnik last week that the Houthi delegation might arrive on December 6, and the talks would last 7-10 days.

The Yemeni government and the Houthi movement were expected to hold UN-backed talks in Geneva in September, but the Houthi delegation did not attend them, citing security concerns.

Yemen has been engulfed in an armed conflict between the government forces led by President Abd Rabbuh Mansour Hadi and the Houthi rebels for several years. The Saudi-led coalition has been carrying out airstrikes against the Houthis at Hadi's request since March 2015.

The UN-led attempts to find a peaceful settlement to the conflict have not succeeded so far. The fighting has recently intensified near the Houthis-controlled city of Al Hudaydah, through which the rebels receive humanitarian and commercial cargoes. The Yemeni government, in turn, claims that the port city is receiving weapons from Iran.

The conflict has led the country to a dire humanitarian situation, with civilians suffering extreme food shortages and disease outbreaks as well as direct impact from the military operations.(@rukhshanmir)

Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov laid a wreath at the "Russians Meet Americans at the Elbe" bas-relief at the World War II memorial in Washington, DC

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov laid a wreath at the "Russians Meet Americans at the Elbe" bas-relief at the World War II memorial in Washington , DC

The ceremony marked the Day of the Unknown Soldier, which Russia commemorates since 2014 in memory of all Soviet and Russian troops killed on its territory and abroad.

Antonov laid the wreath in commemoration of the historical meeting between Soviet and US troops at the Elbe River near the town of Torgau in Germany in April 1945.

The World War II memorial, located at the National Mall just several blocks from the White House, was opened in May 2004 and dedicated to more than 400,000 US soldiers killed during the war.

The Us and Soviet troops' meeting at the Elbe River is considered a key milestone in ending World War II as the Soviet military advanced against Nazi forces from the east and the US military and allied forces advanced from the west.

Armenian diplomats also laid a wreath at the Spirit of Elbe memorial while diplomats from other Commonwealth of Independence States members laid bouquets of flowers.(@rukhshanmir)

The upper house of the Russian parliament, the Federation Council, can adopt at its meeting on Wednesday an address to the global community calling on it to tackle human rights violations in Ukraine within martial law introduction in the country and the Kerch Strait incident, a source in the Federation Council told Sputnik on Monday.

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) The upper house of the Russian parliament, the Federation Council, can adopt at its meeting on Wednesday an address to the global community calling on it to tackle human rights violations in Ukraine within martial law introduction in the country and the Kerch Strait incident, a source in the Federation Council told Sputnik on Monday.

"We are planning to discuss an address to the global community over martial law introduction in Ukraine as it violates human rights, especially in the east of the country," the source said.

The lawmakers are planning to call on international rights institutions to protect human rights of Ukrainian citizens, especially those living in the crisis-torn Donbas region.

The address will also tackle the Kerch Strait incident, the source said, emphasizing that Russia qualified it as a "premeditated anti-Russian provocation."

According to the source, the draft document will be discussed on Monday, at a session of the International Committee of the Federation Council. On Wednesday, the document will be discussed at a plenary session of the Federation Council.

Later on Monday, the International Committee of the Federation Council will hold a closed meeting to discuss the Kerch Strait incident. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin and representatives of the Russian Federal Security Service are set to participate in the session.South Korean Ambassador to Russia Woo Yoon-keun expressed hope on Monday that the country's parliament would soon endorse the initiative to sign a free trade agreement with Russia in order to launch negotiations with Moscow in early 2019.

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) South Korean Ambassador to Russia Woo Yoon-keun expressed hope on Monday that the country's parliament would soon endorse the initiative to sign a free trade agreement with Russia in order to launch negotiations with Moscow in early 2019

"We, in our country, are completing discussions on signing a free trade agreement in the areas of investments and services. We expect that our parliament will soon endorse such a project so that we could discuss signing such an agreement with the Russian side early next year," Woo told reporters.

Relations between South Korea and Russia have developed significantly since South Korean President Moon Jae-in took office last year, Woo added.

"Since president Moon Jae-in took office, relations between South Korea and Russia have made a significant breakthrough ... Very good relations have been established between our presidents, as well as between our parliaments," Woo said at the beginning of his meeting with Vladimir Dzhabarov, the deputy chair of the Russian upper house International Affairs Committee.

He noted that Russian-South Korean trade cooperation was also developing.

"We know that by the end of this year, trade between our countries will reach $20 billion, and by 2020, when we will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, this figure will amount to up to $30 billion," Woo said.

The diplomat noted that the two countries had also been actively cooperating in other areas, such as culture, science and sports.

"We believe that in 2020, the number of mutual visits by our citizens will rise to 1 million people per year," Woo said.

On Monday, Woo held talks with Dzhabarov. The diplomat congratulated Dzhabarov on his recent appointment as head of the parliamentary Russia-South Korea Friendship Group, and invited the group's members to his residence early next year.MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) The Saudi-led coalition has announced that it will allow evacuation of 50 injured Houthi rebels from Yemen, local media reported on Monday.

Al Ekhbariya broadcaster wrote on Twitter that the injured Houthis will be evacuated to the Omani capital of Muscat for medical treatment.

The decision was made for humanitarian reasons at the request of the UN special envoy for Yemen after consultations with the legitimate Yemeni government, the broadcaster added.(@rukhshanmir)

Six people were shot dead on Monday by police in eastern Burkina Faso during a "terrorist attack" on a security patrol, security sources said.

Ouagadougou,(APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :Six people were shot dead on Monday by police in eastern Burkina Faso during a " terrorist attack " on a security patrol, security sources said.

An officer was also wounded in the incident at about 0500 GMT near Bougui, about 10 kilometres from Fada N'Gourma, the main town in the Eastern Region administrative area, a source said.

"A patrol team of the territorial gendarmerie brigade of Fada N'Gourma was ambushed in the village of Bougui," a security source told AFP.

"The terrorists opened fire at the convoy, damaging the lead vehicle." The police responded, firing on the attackers, killing six of them but leaving one officer with a foot injury, another security source said.

"Several weapons, including Kalashnikovs and ammunition," were seized from the attackers, the source added.

The security patrol was attacked during an operation to dismantle a cache of weapons belonging to suspected terrorists in the nearby area, a local official said.

Burkina Faso, bordering Mali and Niger, has been battling militants attacks over the last three years.

Attacks initially began in the north of the country but have since spread to the east, near the border with Togo and Benin.

On Friday five people, including four police officers, were killed when their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device (IED) in the eastern town of Boungou.(@rukhshanmir)

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 02nd December, 2018) The Iranian Foreign Ministry refuted on Sunday recent claims by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that Iranian missile program allegedly violated the UN Security Council's resolutions.

Pompeo said Saturday that Iran had test-fired a medium range ballistic missile in violation of the UN Security Council resolution 2231 that bans Iran from undertaking "any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches using such ballistic missile technology.

"

"The Iranian missile program is of defensive nature and developed in accordance with the needs of the country. No resolution of the UN Security Council bans the missile program or Iranian missile tests," the statement quoted Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi as saying.ANKARA, Dec 3 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :Turkish jets have neutralized five PKK terrorists in northern Iraq, the military said on Monday.

Turkish authorities often use the word "neutralized" in their statements to imply that the terrorists in question either surrendered or were killed or captured.

In a Twitter post, the Turkish General Staff said its jets pounded PKK terrorists in the Sinat-Haftanin, and Metina regions during operations conducted on Sunday and Monday.

Shelters belonging to the terror group were also destroyed in the airstrikes, it added.

In its more than 30-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK - listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US and the EU - has been responsible for the deaths of nearly 40,000 people.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Sanaa, Dec 3 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :The UN's Yemen envoy Martin Griffiths landed at Sanaa international airport Monday for talks with Huthi rebels ahead of planned peace talks in Sweden this month.

An AFP photographer at the airport said Griffiths did not take questions on arrival.

Fifty wounded Huthis will also be evacuated Monday from rebel-held Sanaa for medical treatment on a UN chartered flight.The delegations of Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia held Monday political consultations, during which the parties supported the idea of boosting contacts both in bilateral format and within international organizations, the Uzbek Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

TASHKENT (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 03rd December, 2018) The delegations of Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia held Monday political consultations, during which the parties supported the idea of boosting contacts both in bilateral format and within international organizations, the Uzbek Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

According to the statement, the Uzbek delegation was headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Dilshod Akhatov, while the Saudi delegation was led by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Nizar Madani. The parties exchanged opinions on prospects for development of relations in trade, investment, political, economic, cultural and humanitarian areas, as well as on the issue of mutual support on international and regional issues.

"The parties spoke in favor of boosting the Uzbek-Saudi contacts at all levels, holding new sessions of the joint cooperation institutions," the statement said.

Tashkent and Riyadh especially seek enhancing coordination of efforts in the United Nations and Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIS), according to the statement.

During its visit to Riyadh, the Uzbek delegation also met with head of the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority Ibrahim Al-Omar and Managing Director of the Saudi Fund for Development Yousef bin Ibrahim Al-Bassam. The parties discussed promising areas of cooperation in trade, economy and investment.(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Geneva, Dec 3 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Dec, 2018 ) :Western Sahara is a former Spanish colony that is mostly under Morocco's control but is claimed by an Algerian-backed independence movement which has campaigned for a vote on self-determination through decades of war and deadlock.

Here is some background on the sprawling, desert territory, the only one on the African continent whose post-colonial status has yet to be resolved -- as the United Nations prepares to convene new talks in Geneva on Wednesday.

The north African territory sits on the western edge of the vast Sahara desert, stretching along about 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) of Atlantic coastline.

At 266,000 square kilometres it is relatively large but its inhospitable terrain supports only around half a million people.

Bordering Morocco to the north, Algeria to the east and Mauritania to the south and southeast, it boasts large reserves of phosphate and rich offshore fisheries.

Its largest city is Laayoune, which is administered by Morocco and where about 40 percent of its population lives.

As Spain withdrew in 1975, Morocco moved in, claiming that the territory was an integral part of the kingdom.

It was opposed by the Polisario Front, which took up arms to fight for independence.

The dispute was referred to the International Court of Justice in The Hague which ruled in favour of self-determination.

In November 1975, 350,000 Moroccans, took part in the so-called Green March to the border to press the kingdom's claim.

In February 1976, the Polisario Front proclaimed the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), with the support of allies including Algeria and Cuba.

The Polisario initially gained the upper hand before being pushed back into the interior.

During the 1980s, Morocco built a series of concentric walls in the desert, most made of sand, to keep Polisario fighters out of territory where it had established control.

The outermost defensive line runs for 2,700 kilometres across the desert, ringing the 80 percent of the Western Sahara now under Moroccan control.

It is fortified with barbed wire and trenches and forms one of the world's largest minefields.

A UN-brokered ceasefire in 1991 perpetuated the line of control.

The SADR is a member of the African Union but controls just 20 percent of its territory, mostly empty desert.

Morocco rejoined the African bloc last year after a 33-year absence under the cloud of the dispute.

The conflict has long poisoned its relations with neighbouring Algeria.

Their common border has been closed since 1994, and between 100,000 and 200,000 Sahrawi refugees live in camps around the Algerian desert town of Tindouf.

The United Nations has repeatedly failed to broker a settlement.

It deployed its Minurso mission in 1991 to monitor the ceasefire and organise a referendum on the territory's future status.

The vote was set for 1992 but was aborted when Morocco objected to the proposed electoral register, saying it was biased.

Headquartered in Laayoune, the mission has had strained relations with the Moroccan authorities.

The authorities now refuse to accept any vote in which independence is an option and say only autonomy is on the table.(@FahadShabbir)

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 04th December, 2018) The delegations of the Yemeni government and the Houthi rebels will arrive on Tuesday in Sweden to take part in settlement negotiations, Russian Ambassador to Yemen Vladimir Dedushkin said Monday.

"The UN charter flight with the Houthi delegation and leadership of the General People's Congress party is expected to get a permit to leave Sanaa for Stockholm tomorrow, December 4,. Approximately at the same time, on December 4-5, the delegation of the Yemeni government headed by Foreign Minister Khaled Yamani must arrive in Stockholm," Dedushkin said.

Yemen has been engulfed in an armed conflict between the government forces led by President Abd Rabbuh Mansour Hadi and the Houthi rebels for several years.

The Saudi-led coalition has been carrying out airstrikes against the Houthis at Hadi's request since March 2015.

The UN-led attempts to find a peaceful settlement to the conflict have not succeeded so far. The fighting has recently intensified near the Houthi-controlled city of Al Hudaydah, through which the rebels receive humanitarian and commercial cargoes. The Yemeni government, in turn, claims that the port city is receiving weapons from Iran.

The conflict has led the country to a dire humanitarian situation, with civilians suffering extreme food shortages and disease outbreaks as well as direct impact from the military operations.Renal hilum access should be secured A homeostatic band-aid should be prepared from outside to in A ray tec or mini lap pad should be placed in the space The renal capsule should be incised close to the tumor The pseudocapsular plane should be identified Small vessels should be cauterized The tumor should be used to keep the pressure on bleeders

Phoenix, Arizona (UroToday.com) In this debate Dr. Gupta presented his opinion on why renal tumors of less than 4 cm should be enucleated rather than undergo standard partial nephrectomy. Tumor enucleation is a common procedure which is defined as tumor excision along the natural plane between the peritumoral pseudo-capsule and the renal parenchyma, without removing a visible rim of normal parenchyma. The pseudo-capsule is defined as a rim of fibrous tissue adjacent to the tumor measuring 0.1 mm-1 mm in thickness, next to a thin 1-2 mm rim of compressed renal parenchyma. All renal cell carcinoma (RCC) tumors possess a pseudo-capsule, due to the fact that the growth of a T1a RCC tumor is expansive and not infiltrative.The tumor pseudo-capsule separates most renal tumors from the adjacent parenchyma. This technique of enucleation, when done correctly, is ideal for patients with hereditary forms of RCCs, as they will tend to have recurrent multifocal bilateral tumors. In this enucleation technique, renal preservation is optimized.There are many reasons why this technique should be adopted by all surgeons. These include preservation of the vast majority of the renal parenchyma, it can reduce the need for vascular clamping, or at least reduce it substantially. Other reasons include the fact that avoidance of a deeper resection will lower the risk of urine leak, bleeding, and pseudoaneurysm. Additionally, it may totally negate the need for renorraphy. In contrast, reasons to not support this technique include the fact that in this technique, the surgical margins will be positive, and surgeons are afraid of this. To overcome this obstacle, the pathologists must be taught and explained the plan of enucleation and what it means.Dr. Gupta presented a summary table comparing the various surgical techniques with the different advantages and disadvantages (Table 1). Next, some important surgical tips for performing enucleation were given by Dr. Gupta. These included:Table 1  Comparison of surgical techniques:Concluding his talk, Dr. Gupta presented a published meta-analysiscomparing simple enucleation and standard partial nephrectomy for malignant renal tumors. The conclusion of this analysis stated that simple enucleation is non-inferior to partial nephrectomy when assessing positive surgical margin rates, local regional recurrence and renal recurrence.Presented by: Gopal N. Gupta, Loyola University Medical Center, IL, USAReferences:1. Minervini A et al. Minerva Urol Nefrol. 2017 Written by: Hanan Goldberg, MD, Urologic Oncology Fellow, SUO, University of Toronto, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, @GoldbergHanan, at the 19th Annual Meeting of the Society of Urologic Oncology (SUO), November 28-30, 2018  Phoenix, Arizona



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Market Scenario

The global artificial lift market is facing an upward trend two to decline in oil reservoirs, increase in oil and gas production and increase in deep water and ultra-deep activities. However, strict government and environmental problems associated with oil and gas production are inhibiting the growth of the artificial lift market. Hence it is expected that the market for global artificial lift is expected to grow at CAGR of XX% from 2016 - 2027

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Study Objectives of Artificial Lift Market

 To provide a detailed analysis of the market structure with the forecast for the next 10 years of the various segments and sub-segments of the Global Artificial Lift Market

 To provide insights about factors affecting the market growth

 To Analyze the Global Artificial Lift Market based on various factors- price analysis, supply chain analysis, porters five force analysis etc.

 To provide historical and forecast revenue of the market segments and sub-segments with respect to four main geographies and their countries- North America, Europe, Asia, and Rest of the World (RoW)

 To provide country level analysis of the market with respect to the current market size and future prospective

 To provide country level analysis of the market for segments by type, by region and sub-segments.

 To provide strategic profiling of key players in the market, comprehensively analyzing their core competencies, and drawing a competitive landscape for the market

 To track and analyze competitive developments such as joint ventures, strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions, new product developments, and research and development in the Global Artificial Lift Market.

Key Findings

The key findings of the report "Global Industry Insight: Artificial Lift Market includes:

 Depleting oil reservoirs, mature oil fields and increasing deep water and ultra-deep water activities are major factors

 Strict government regulations on the oil and gas production is inhibiting the growth of the artificial lift market

 Geographically, North America has the largest share in the global artificial lift market and is also expected to be the fastest growing region

Based on the type, the electric submersible pumps have the largest market share in the artificial lift market.

Request a Discount For This Report @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/check-discount/830

segments

Market Breakdown by Region, Breakdown by Region, Breakdown by Region, Breakdown by Region, Breakdown by Region, Global Breakdown by Region.

Regional Analysis of Artificial Lift Market

North America dominated the Global Artificial Lift Market with the largest market share, the European market for Artificial Lift Market is expected to grow at XX% GAGR (2016-2027 ). Artificial Lift Market Russia is expected to grow at CAGR of XX% from $ XX million in 2016 to $ XX million by 2027.

Key Players

Some of the key players for this market are: Baker Hughes, Borons, Cameron International, Dover Corporation, GE Oil & Gas, Halliburton, John Crane, National Oilwell Varco, Schlumberger, and Weatherford.

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At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of our industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), & Consulting Services.

MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimal quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enabling our clients to see more, most important questions.

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How does Language Exchange work?

In Language Exchange, we attempt to pair you with a buddy who is a native speaker of a language of your choice and/or who wants to learn a language that you are a native speaker of.



Once weve found you a match, well provide more details to get you started. From there, you and your buddy can contact each other to arrange sessions in a way that suits both. Youre welcome to bring along your own language-learning resources, but please know there are no compulsory formal classes, materials or homework involved in this program!



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Our Language Exchange system assigns buddies considering all your native or fluent languages and language preferences in order. If you have said you are happy to learn any language, this is also taken into consideration.



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The Program is open to USU members, both domestic and international students are encouraged to get involved.



Follow us on Instagram and join our Facebook Group Registrations for Semester 2 are. Stay tuned for Semester 1, 2022 registrations to open.In Language Exchange, we attempt to pair you with a buddy who is a native speaker of a language of your choice and/or who wants to learn a language that you are a native speaker of.Once weve found you a match, well provide more details to get you started. From there, you and your buddy can contact each other to arrange sessions in a way that suits both. Youre welcome to bring along your own language-learning resources, but please know there are no compulsory formal classes, materials or homework involved in this program!You can also see our USU Language Exchange Welcome Booklet HERE for some topic suggestions and activity pages for you and your buddy.Our Language Exchange system assigns buddies considering all your native or fluent languages and language preferences in order. If you have said you are happy to learn any language, this is also taken into consideration.The Program is open to USU members, both domestic and international students are encouraged to get involved.

Finally ready to give Mandarin a go? Want to order at your favourite restaurant with more confidence? Interested in sharing your language skills, wishing more people knew more than just bonjour or hola? Whether youre a beginner, an advanced learner or a native speaker, the USU Language Exchange Program is open to anyone interested in languages.Sign up to meet people from different cultural backgrounds and swap languages in a relaxed setting in your free time. Its fun, flexible and FREE, so making multilingual friends has never been easier!"This is exactly the activity I have been looking for. I'm really excited to meet more friends who are also fans of languages.""Thanks for giving me this opportunity to know more about other cultures."If you have any questions, please contact isl.reception@usu.edu.auBishop Ildo Fortes (l), of the Diocese of Mindelo with Archbishop Francisco Chimoio (r), of the Archdiocese of Maputo

As Mozambiques October 2019 scheduled general elections loom over the horizon, the Bishops in that country think that more could have been done or can still be done for the security of citizens and the cohesion of the country.

Herminio Jose - Maputo, Mozambique

The Archbishop of Maputo, Francisco Chimoio, has told Vatican News of his concern about events that have happened under the watch of the current Frelimo government of President Filipe Jacinto Nyusi.

The Archbishop says that the political-military tensions that emerged in 2015 in the central and northern regions of Mozambique between Frelimo, the ruling party, and Renamo, the largest opposition party in the country have not been dealt with comprehensively.

Cabo Delgado: Terrorist attacks and no solution in sight

The recent terrorist attacks in the northern province of Cabo Delgado, whose targets were initially the police and military bases and now the populations, are also a black spot on the current government, the Archbishop says. Archbishop Chimoio criticises the fact that Mozambican authorities have so far failed to overcome this wave of terrorist attacks, which have claimed more than 100 lives since October 2017.

General elections 2019, the path towards peace, hope and prosperity

Now the Archbishop of Maputo has set his eyes on the presidential and legislative elections to take place in 2019. He hopes the government that will emerge from those elections will robustly and urgently tackle the issues of insecurity in the country. Only this will offer citizens a sure path towards peace, hope and prosperity, Archbishop Chimoio says.

Celebrate New Years Eve Weekend at House of Blues with a variety of rock and country acts. The weekend kicks off Friday, Dec. 28 with the high adrenaline, Appetite 4 Destruction, performing songs covering the entire Guns N Roses catalogue. Dance your boots off Saturday, Dec. 29 with Country Showdown featuring Elvis Monroe and DJ Shaddix (Pictured: Elvis Monroe  Photo credit: www.IraKuzmaPhotos.com).

The celebrations conclude Monday, Dec. 31 with Super Diamond, a tribute band performing Neil Diamonds biggest hits spanning more than two decades. All You Can Drink Packages, including well liquors, domestic beers and house wines, are available at each show in advance for $45 per person and $50 night of.

International pop sensation, Aaron Carter takes the stage at B Side at House of Blues on Tuesday, Jan. 29. Returning to his musical roots, Carter released Love, his first album in 15 years. The album includes tracks, Sooner or Later and Fools Gold, which have amassed streaming success. While his new release features a more mature sound, Aaron stays faithful to his pop idol past, performing his nostalgic hits from the 90s and early 00s.

Other announcements this week include heavy-metal tour-de-force, Cradle Of Filth: Cryptoriana World Tour. Unless otherwise noted, all tickets are on sale now by visiting HouseofBlues.com, MandalayBay.com, Ticketmaster.com or by calling 702-632-7600.

JUST ANNOUNCED

Date: Tuesday, Jan. 29

Aaron Carter  Inside B Side at House of Blues Las Vegas

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $15

Ages: All Ages

Genre: Pop

Date: Thursday, March 7

CRADLE OF FILTH: CRYPTORIANA WORLD TOUR

Doors: 6 p.m.

Tickets: start at $32 (on sale Friday, Nov. 30)

Ages: 18+

Genre: Metal

NEW YEARS EVE WEEKEND

Date: Friday, Dec. 28

Appetite 4 Destruction  Tribute to Guns N Roses

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $10

Ages: 18+

Genre: Rock Tribute

Date: Saturday, Dec. 29

Country Throwdown  Ft. Elvis Monroe, DJ Shaddix

Doors: 9 p.m.

Tickets: start at $10

Ages: 18+

Genre: Country

Date: Monday, Dec. 31

Super Diamond  Tribute to Neil Diamond

Doors: 8 p.m.

Tickets: start at $20 (on sale Friday, Nov. 30)

Ages: 18+

Genre: Rock Tribute

PERFORMING THIS WEEK

Date: Friday, Nov. 30

ROCK OFF  Tribute to Journey vs. The Police

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $10

Ages: 18+

Genre: Rock Tribute

UPCOMING SHOWS

Date: Thursday, Dec. 6

Dream Never Die 2: R&B Edition  Inside B Side at House of Blues Las Vegas

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $10

Ages: All Ages

Genre: R&B

Date: Friday, Dec. 7

EnParejaDos Adrian Uribe and Consuelo Duval

Doors: 6 p.m. and 10 p.m.

Tickets: start at $49

Ages: 18+

Genre: Latin

Date: Saturday, Dec. 8

Sin City KISS  Tribute to KISS

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $10

Ages: 18+

Genre: Rock Tribute

Date: Sunday, Dec. 9

Rocky Horror Live!

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $10

Ages: 18+

Genre: Musical

Date: Thursday, Dec. 13

H.E.R. with Special Guests Bri Steves and Tone Stith

Doors: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: start at $28.50

Ages: 18+

Genre: R&B

Date: Friday, Dec. 14

Little Steven & The Disciples of Soul

Doors: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: start at $34

Ages: 18+

Genre: Rock

Date: Saturday, Dec. 15

A Drag Queen Christmas: The Naughty Tour

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $23

Ages: All Ages

Genre: Drag/Musical

Date: Thursday, Dec. 20

Carlos Daniels  Homenaje a Juan Gabriel Todo Y Mi Tristeza Tour

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $10

Ages: 18+

Genre: Latin Tribute

Date: Sunday, Dec. 23

Radio Javan Presents: Kamran Hooman & Sogand

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $54

Ages: 18+

Genre: International Pop

Date: Monday, Dec. 24

Max Amini

Doors: 5 p.m.

Tickets: start at $39

Ages: 18+

Genre: Comedy

Date: Monday, Dec. 24

Aref

Doors: 8:30 p.m.

Tickets: start at $59

Ages: 18+

Genre: International Pop

Date: Thursday, Jan. 17

Corazon de Mana

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $10

Ages: 18+

Genre: Latin Rock Tribute

Date: Jan. 23, 25-27, 30-31; Feb 1-2

Carlos Santana  An Intimate Evening with Santana: Greatest Hits Live

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $99.50

Ages: 18+

Genre: Classic Rock/Latin Fusion

Date: Thursday, Jan. 24

OMD

Doors: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: start at $35

Ages: 18+

Genre: Electronic

Date: Tuesday, Jan. 29

Aaron Carter  Inside B Side at House of Blues Las Vegas

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $15

Ages: All Ages

Genre: Pop

Date: Saturday, Feb. 9

Franco Escamilla

Doors: 8 p.m.

Tickets: start at $42.50

Ages: 18+

Genre: Comedy

Date: Saturday, Feb. 23

10 Summers Presents: The Debut Tour with Ella Mai  SOLD OUT

Doors: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: start at $27.50

Ages: All Ages

Genre: R&B

Date: Sunday, March 3

Kurt Vile and the Violators

Doors: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: start at $25

Ages: All Ages

Genre: Rock

Date: Thursday, March 7

CRADLE OF FILTH: CRYPTORIANA WORLD TOUR

Doors: 6 p.m.

Tickets: start at $32 (on sale Friday, Nov. 30)

Ages: 18+

Genre: Metal

Date: Saturday, March 16

ONE OK ROCK  Eye of the Storm North America Tour 2019

Doors: 6:30 p.m.

Tickets: start at $27.50

Ages: All Ages

Genre: J-Rock

Date: Saturday, March 23

Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness  Upside Down Flowers Tour

Doors: 6 p.m.

Tickets: start at $25.50

Ages: All Ages

Genre: Alternative Rock

Date: Sunday, March 24

West Coast High 2019 featuring Cypress Hill and Hollywood Undead

Doors: 6:30 p.m.

Tickets: start at $39.50

Ages: All Ages

Genre: Hip-Hop

Date: Friday, March 29

Morgan Wallen  If I Know Me Tour

Doors: 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: start at $20 (on sale Oct. 26)

Ages: All Ages

Genre: Country

Date: Saturday, May 4 and Sunday, May 5,

Taking Back Sunday

Doors: 6:45 p.m.

Tickets: start at $35

Ages: All Ages

Genre: Alternative Rock

Date: May 15, 17-19, 22, 24-26

Carlos Santana  An Intimate Evening with Santana: Greatest Hits Live

Doors: 7 p.m.

Tickets: start at $99.50

Ages: 18+

Genre: Classic Rock/Latin Fusion

Date: Saturday, July 6

Jon Bellion  The Glory Sound Prep Tour

Doors: 6 p.m.

Tickets: start at $49.50

Ages: 18+

Genre: Pop

The National Weather Service (NWS) and the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) developed SKYWARN Recognition Day in 1999 to celebrate the contributions that SKYWARN volunteers make to the NWS mission, the protection of life and property. Amateur radio operators (also known as hams) comprise a large percentage of the SKYWARN volunteers across the country. These amateur radio operators provide vital communication between the NWS and emergency management if normal communications become inoperative.

During the SKYWARN Special Event, operators visited NWS offices and attempted to contact other radio operators to gather information on local weather conditions. The 19th edition of SKYWARN Recognition Day was held on December 1, 2018.

In Las Vegas, amateur radio operators gathered at the NWS office on Dean Martin Drive to operate their radios and interact with the local NWS office staff. Using RF (radio frequency) on various frequency bands, including both digital mode and VOIP methods, contacts were made with other SKYWARN participants at NWS locations throughout the country. Although band conditions were poor in the Las Vegas area, contacts were made by the 29 participants throughout the morning and early afternoon of December 1st. Using the call WX7LAS, a total of 19 official station contacts were logged, including the WX1AW bonus station.

Over the past year, the news has been full of reports of ham radio operators providing critical communications during unexpected emergencies in towns across America including the California wildfires, floods, tornadoes and other events worldwide. When trouble is brewing, Amateur Radios people are often the first to provide rescuers with critical information and communications. This event demonstrated the commitment by amateur radio operators to provide communications when needed.Vietnam has emerged as a regional startup hub in Southeast Asia with investments worth US$815 million at the recent Vietnam Ventures Summit.

Key sectors in the startup space include fintech, e-commerce, and enterprise solutions. Vietnams digital economy offers numerous opportunities for disruption at scale.

Foreign investors have played a key role in fuelling the growth of Vietnams startup ecosystem and recent regulations have attempted to streamline investment regulations surrounding foreign investors such as VCs.

Vietnams emergence as a startup hub received a boost at the recent Vietnam Ventures Summit 2020, where investors signaled their intent to invest US$815 million in startups. The agreement covers 33 foreign and domestic investment funds including CyberAgent Capital, 500 Startups, AlphaJWC, Monks Hill Ventures, and Access Ventures. Last year, investment commitments totaled US$415 million. The US$400 million increase in investments in 2020 reflects a belief that Vietnam could rival Indonesia as Southeast Asias growth market for tech investments.

Vietnams startup ecosystem

Since 2017, Vietnam has emerged as a hub for startups, closely competing with Indonesia and Singapore. In the first half of 2019 for instance, Vietnamese startups raised US$246 million with startups such as Tiki, VNPay, and VNG capturing 63 percent of these deals.

The first half of 2020 witnessed a 22 percent reduction in deals compared to the same period in 2019 owing mainly to the economic impact of COVID-19, however fundraising by Vietnamese startups has shown signs of recovery in the second half of 2020.

There are numerous drivers of Vietnams emergence as a startup hub in Southeast Asia. These include revenue growth in digital sectors such as fintech and e-commerce, rising consumer spending, increasing interest from foreign investment funds particularly Japanese, Singaporean, and South Korean VC funds, and targeted government support.

Foreign investors have played a major role in funding Vietnamese startups. In February 2020, Affirma Capital invested US$34 million in Sieu Viet Group, which focuses on online recruitment. Japans SoftBank and Singapores GIC invested US$300 million in VNPay. US-based 500 Startups aims to invest in 80 Vietnamese startups by 2021.

Tech sector dominates

The tech sector dominates the startup ecosystem in Vietnam. Between 2016 and 2019, invested capital in tech startups has risen by a factor of eight reaching a peak of US$861 million in 2019. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in particular have developed a robust ecosystem for tech startups. Sectors such as e-commerce, fintech, AI, food-tech, enterprise solutions, and information technology services have dominated funding rounds in recent years.

In fintech for instance, there were 123 startups in Vietnam in 2020 compared to just 44 in 2017. These trends reflect the strong potential for growth in Vietnams digital economy and the ability of Vietnamese startups to capture market opportunities.

Government support

To encourage entrepreneurship, the Vietnamese government has established a number of funds at State and provincial/city level to support startups. In addition, the government has also collaborated with countries and banks to develop funding and innovation programs, provide loans, technical training, and business mentoring. Some of the programs are as follows:

SpeedUP is a VND 11.75 billion (US$ 520,520) fund, which has been started by Ho Chi Minh Citys Department of Science and Technology. The fund has a range of investments ranging from VND 350 million (US$15,500) to VND 1,282 billion (US$56,792).

Startupcity.vn is an online platform launched by Hanois People Committee that has details about startups and investors and aims to connect investors with entrepreneurs.

Vietnam  Finland Innovation Partnership Programme is a program financed jointly by both governments. The second phase ran through 2014-2018 with a budget of EUR 11 million. The programmes portfolio includes Abivin (big data analytics), Beeketing (online marketing), Entobel (sustainable feed supplier), and Ezcloud (integrated hotel management solutions) among others.

Saigon Silicon City Center is a 52-hectare complex, which is being built to support tech-focused startups and international firms. It is expected to attract investments worth US$1.5 billion by 2020 in target industries such as microelectronics, precision engineering, biotechnology, and nanotechnology among others.

Mekong Business Initiative is a partnership program between the Asian Development Bank and the Government of Australia that focuses on alternative financing, including venture capital, angel investments, and fintech in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam.

Mobile Applications Laboratory (mLab) East Asia was launched by Ho Chi Minh City and has an incubation program that focuses on mentoring, training, access to equipment, and financing.

National Technology Innovation Fund (NATIF) is a government agency and financial institution under Vietnams Ministry of Science and Technology that provides grants and preferential loans for R&D, innovation, and technology transfer.

National Agency for Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Commercialization Development (NATECD) is a national platform under Vietnams Ministry of Science and Technology that provides training, mentorship, and financial aid

Startup regulations

In January 2018, the Law on Supporting Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises came into effect, with detailed provisions for support to start-ups in areas such as technology transfer, training, trade promotion, investments, preferential loans, and incentives for venture capital funds.

Under Vietnams Law on Support for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, a startup is defined as a small- or medium-sized enterprise that is established to realize an idea by exploiting intellectual property, technology and/or new business model and capable of growing fast. This definition, therefore, builds on two key economic features of a startup: innovation and capacity to scale.

Following this, Decree 38/ND-CP, which came into effect in March 2018, focuses on innovative start-up investments. It identifies and recognizes start-up investment activities as a business and provides legal status to innovative start-up companies and funds. In addition, one of the regulations stipulates that the State can also invest in a startup, with a maximum of 30 percent of the total investments.

In 2016, the Prime Minister approved the Supporting National Innovative Start-up Ecosystem to 2025 Project, or Project 844, through Decision 844/QD-TTg/2016. It focuses on supporting the national innovation startup ecosystem through 2025 and developing a legal system and a national e-portal for startups by 2020. In addition, it will also provide funding support to 200 startup enterprises.

Decree 76/ND-CP builds on the Law on Technology Transfer and allows for the use of Science and Technology Development Funds which have tax exemptions to invest in startups.

Regulatory trends suggest that the governments focus is on attracting foreign investment in startups, promoting crowdfunding and P2P lending, and sustaining investor networks in Vietnam.

ASEAN startup ecosystem

Southeast Asia currently has a population of around 655 million people with a median age of 30 years. Driven by young demographics and rising discretionary spending, the region has seen a rapid rise in new startups: 11 unicorns have emerged in the region over the past decade alone.

According to Tech in Asias data, investments in the regions startups grew from US$2.52 billion in 2016 to US$7.7 billion in 2019. Singapore and Indonesia continue to lead in the region, with e-commerce, logistics, agri-tech, fintech, and digital payments emerging as the most attractive sectors. Vietnams first unicorn, VNG is an online gaming and platform company.

Vietnams startup space promising but challenges remain

Major challenges facing the startup community in Vietnam is the lack of a talented workforce, funding, lack of scale, and slow regulatory reforms. In addition to financial support through funds and preferential loans, the government needs to increase investments in training and education to build a skilled workforce.

It also needs to continue with its regulatory reforms, as this will lead to a friendly business environment for investors and developers. This will not only attract much needed foreign investments but also the talented workforce from the surrounding region, which will help firms to achieve reasonable scale.

Going forward, the ability and capacity of Vietnamese startups to redesign business models in light of COVID-19 will also be key to funding outcomes. COVID-19 has brought into focus the need for startups to be consumer responsive, rapidly innovative, and fiercely competitive.

High growth, demographics offer significant potential for startups

Vietnam, driven by its growing internet penetration, smartphone adoption, and young demographics, offers huge potential for startups, especially ones focusing on fintech, e-commerce, and enterprise solutions. These sectors have attracted significant portions of funding in the last year. Other emerging sectors include education technology, agri-tech, and logistics.

Note: This article was first published in June 2018, and has been updated to include the latest developments.By: Dezan Shira & Associates

Editor: Koushan Das

On June 12, Vietnams National Assembly passed the Law on Cybersecurity with a huge majority. The law will be coming into effect on January 1, 2019. The major provisions in the law include data localization, government control over online content, and setting up local offices in Vietnam. Although the law has been adopted, there are still some issues that lack clarity and more changes are expected to be introduced and implemented before it comes into effect.

RELATED: Business Advisory Services from Dezan Shira & Associates

Key Provisions

Data Localization

Onshore and offshore service providers will be required to store data of Vietnamese users in Vietnam. Service providers include:

Firms providing services on a telecom network, internet, and other online value-added services;

Firms involved in collecting, utilizing, and processing of users data including personal information.

Information that needs to be stored locally should include the users personal information, online relationships, and all other data generated by the users. Further clarity on issues such as duration of storing users data and restrictions on the cross-border transfer of data, may be provided through subsequent decrees and circulars.

Local office

Offshore entities under the purview of the law need to establish a branch or representative office in Vietnam.

Content control and audits

The Ministry of Information and Communications and the cybersecurity agency under the Ministry of Public Security have the authority to request online and offshore service providers to remove offensive content. They can also conduct an audit of information systems, which can include:

Digital devices, hardware, software systems;

Transmitted, processed and stored data.

The government authority will be required to send a notice to the system owner at least 12 hours prior to an audit and will provide the results of the audit, within 30 days from the completion of the audit.

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Illegal content and acts

Illegal content and acts according to the new law include:

Article 8: It includes acts such as inciting people against the State, distorting history, gender discrimination, religious offenses, racism, posting untruthful information, and human trafficking. In addition, it includes network terrorism, cybercrimes, and network attacks on information systems critical to national security;

Article 16: It includes details about the prevention and treatment of information with propaganda contents against the State which can incite riots, disturb public order, cyber humiliate, slander, and affect the socio-economic activities of the State;

Article 17: It includes network espionage behavior which can violate State secrets, users personal information, and corporate secrets;

Article 18: This article focuses on using cyberspace in violation of the national security laws, social order, and safety regulations such as selling banned goods, using illegal means of payment, and piracy; and

Article 29: Focuses on protecting children in cyberspace.

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Impact

Foreign governments and firms believe that the new law can affect foreign investments and firms operating in the country. According to the Vietnam Digital Communications Association, the new cybersecurity law can reduce GDP growth by 1.7 percent and reduce foreign investment by 3.1 percent.

However, the government believes that this law is necessary for national security and the protection of citizens, as Vietnam lacks a legal framework for cybersecurity issues. Before it comes into effect, further changes may be implemented in the law, as currently, it lacks clarity on a number of issues.The four masterminds of the Rikvip gambling ring

On November 30, the Phu Tho People's Court sentenced Phan Van Vinh, former director of the General Police Department under the Ministry of Public Security, to nine years of imprisonment and Nguyen Thanh Hoa, former director of the ministrys cybercrime division, to 10 years for "abuse of power or position in performance of official duties" (Penal Code 1999's Article 281).

The two defendants were also fined to VND100 million ($4.350) each. These penalties are higher than the ones proposed by the Procuracy, which requested seven to eight years of imprisonment.

Meanwhile, the two other masterminds behind the online gambling ring received lower penalties than proposed by the Procuracy. Former CNC chairman Nguyen Van Duong was sentenced to five years in prison for the charge of organising gambling and five years for money laundering. He gets 10 years in summary conviction for the two charges and was ordered to return VND1.7 trillion ($74 million) to the state.

VTC Onlines former chairman Phan Sao Nam was given two years in prison for the charge of organising gambling, and three years for money laundering. Additionally, he will have to return VND1.5 trillion ($65.2 million) to the state.

The remaining 88 defendants were sentenced to between VND40 million ($1,740) and three years of imprisonment for the charges of gambling, organising gambling, money laundering, trading in illegal receipts, and using the Internet to appropriate properties. 17 of these defendants received monetary fines for the charges of trading in illegal receipts and gambling. 22 other defendants were sentenced to non-custodial reform.

The verdict noted that telecommunication companies obtained VND1.2 trillion ($52.2 million) of the VND10 trillion ($434.8 million) profit of the gambling ring. Viettel gained VND913 billion ($39.7 million) and will have to return more than VND200 billion ($8.7 million). Vinaphone gained VND147 billion ($6.4 million) and will have to pay back VND13 billion ($565,200). MobiFone earned VND171 billion ($7.4 million) and will have to return VND15 billion ($652,200).

The court said that telecommunications companies had no supervision and management over the top-up cards sold, so they do not have to take responsibility for buyers using scratch cards for online gambling.

Finally, the court asked to clarify the responsibilities of officials of the Ministry of Information and Communications and telecommunications agencies because they did not detect the online gambling ring for a long time.

In the next phase of the case, several businesses will be investigated over assisting Phan Sao Nam with money laundering, for renting out servers for the gambling ring, and to clarify the relations between CNC and the MoPS and to locate the profit of the gambling ring.

The court recommended the government to build regulations on the use of top-up scratch cards for non-telecommunications services, and perfect the legal framework on the issuance of top-up cards.Chinese President Xi Jinping (right) was received by his Argentine counterpart Mauricio Macri (left) for a state visit after the G20 summit. (AFP/JUAN MABROMATA)

Struggling to recover after a currency crisis earlier this year, Latin America's third largest economy sought the help of the International Monetary Fund - which approved a US$56 billion loan package.

Now, this latest agreement will "contribute to greater financial stability and also facilitate trade" between China and Argentina, according to the bank's statement.

A currency swap sees two parties agree to exchange a certain amount of foreign currency at a pre-determined rate, protecting against fluctuations.

Argentina's central bank will be able to draw on these funds in an emergency.

The agreement followed the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, as Chinese President Xi Jinping was received by his Argentine counterpart Mauricio Macri for a state visit.

The two countries signed 30 trade and financial agreements in total.

"We are extending cooperation on economic, agricultural, financial and infrastructure issues," Xi told a press conference.

After Brazil, China is Argentina's second largest trade partner.

In 2017, the relationship was firmly in Beijing's favour: China exported US$17 billion of goods to Argentina, while importing US$8 billion of goods from that country.

Beijing and Buenos Aires also agreed another currency swap in 2014, which provided US$11 billion for Argentina's depleted treasury reserves.The workshop on the administration and restructuring of SOEs held by the Ministry of Planning and Investment

According to statistics, during 2011-2018 as many as 600 state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have been equitised, enabling the state to obtain around VND200 trillion ($8.7 billion). However, according to economists, there are a great number of shortcomings in the governance of these corporations after equitisation.

In fact, there are some issues rooted in state ownership and state management, which result in little change in the nature and performance of equitised SOEs.

At the workshop on the administration and restructuring of SOEs in the context of globalisation, Nguyen Dai Lai, banking and financial expert, said that 90 per cent of SOEs have already been equitised. Particularly in the banking sector, only Vietnam Bank for Social Policies and Vietnam Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Agriank) remain unequitised.

However, in fact, the equitised banks are still state-owned banks as the equitisations did call for more capital, but not much changed in corporate governance because the state still holds up to 90 per cent of the total capital, the expert said.

Nguyen Dai Lai said that the state should completely give up its holdings or retain only a small minority portion while staying out of governance.

Expressing his agreement, Vu Dinh Anh, economic expert, said that the process of SOE restructuring has lasted for over 20 years, but the results remain poor. Now we have to discuss how to manage these SOEs, especially equitised SOEs where the state still holds more than 50 per cent or even 90 per cent of the stakes, Anh said.

Thereby, it is very difficult to apply transparent and modern governance methods at these firms. Two examples of poor management and going against market mechanisms are Vietnam Mobile Telecom Services One Member Limited Liability Company (MobiFone) forking out nearly VND9 trillion ($387 million) to acquire AVG and the ongoing argument between Vietnam Electricity Corporation (EVN) and Vietnam National Coal-Mineral Industries Holding Corporation Limited (Vinacomin) on payment method and coal price.

Talking about the roots of this problem, Tran Dinh Thien, former director general of the Institute of Economics, said that SOEs changed very little after equitisation. They received a new name, but the state retained a dominant shareholding and there were limited changes to leadership. Oftentimes their performance was even worse than before as self-interest came to the fore and there was more space for illegal activities.

Thien said that equitisation should be replaced by privatisation. Equitised companies should be under the management of real entrepreneurs and take on a sleeker, more modern form to stay afloat amidst free market rules.

Additionally, according to Nguyen Van Khach, vice chairman of the National Financial Supervisory Commissio, an SOE governance system in line with international practices (such as the OECD - Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development standards) should be built for equitised firms and all SOEs in general.

At the same time, it is necessary to improve transparency and supervision over SOEs. The state should also publicise its capital in SOEs, the performance of these SOEs, and the efficiency of the states investment. The supervision and evaluation of SOEs should be governed by legal documents, and criteria for supervision and evaluation of the efficiency of state investment, financial risks, and corporate governance should be built.InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort won the most coveted 'World's Leading Green Resort 2018' title

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, which is invested by Sun Group Corporation and managed by InterContinental Hotel Group, received four prizes at the WTA organised on December 1 in Lisbon, Spain. These prizes are Worlds Leading Green Resort 2018, World's Leading Resort Architecture Design 2018, World's Leading Luxury MICE Resort 2018, and World's Leading Luxury Wedding Resort 2018.

While this is the first time Worlds Leading Green Resort 2018 is a category, it is considered the most important of the hundreds of prizes at the WTA and it is recognised as a new standard for resorts.

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort won four prizes at WTA 2018

Graham Cooke, chairman of the WTA, said: Green is considered the leading requirement for resorts, especially luxury resorts, including green design  harmony with the natural environment  and green relaxation activities. This was our reason for adding this prize in the prize system of the WTA.

Hundreds of criteria were built for this prize. One more time, InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort overcame the heavy competition to get the votes of experts and customers from over 140 countries to keep the Worlds Leading Luxury Resort prize for the fourth consecutive year, said Graham Cooke.

Designed by the king of resorts Bill Bensley, the 201 rooms and villas of the resort are nestled in the untamed wilderness of Son Tra peninsula, Danang. The combination of luxury, Vietnams traditional culture, and activities to conserve wild nature as well as reach the highest environmental standards were all factors earning InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort this years harvest at the WTA.

Getting the 'Worlds Leading Green Resort 2018 prize marks Sun Groups efforts in maintaining the sustainable development of the resort and protecting the ecosystem of Son Tra Peninsula. Besides, the remaining prizes are a testimony to the service quality and luxury experience offered by Sun Group at this masterpiece recognised by the world, said Juan Losada, managing director of the resort.

After six years in operation, InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort received hundreds of international prizes. Most recently, in November, the resort continued its hospitality excellence by winning four distinguished Haute Grandeur Excellence Awards, including Best Beach Resort on a Global level, Best Family Resort in Vietnam, Best Destination Wedding Retreat in Vietnam, and Best Villa in Vietnam.

All prizes won by InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort contribute to the global status of the Vietnamese tourism sector.Thien Hau Pagoda - a tourist destination in HCM City (Photo: VNA)

The municipal Department of Tourism launched the programme on November 29, aiming to attract more tourists and introduce the citys development history on the occasion of its 320th founding anniversary this year.

Deputy Director of the department Nguyen Thi Anh Hoa said more than 60 travel firms and tourism service providers have registered to take part in this campaign.

The eight tours they offer under this programme aim to give tourists an insight into the formation and development of HCM City, and are divided into three groups: tours of the citys inner areas, tours of Can Gio coastal district, and trips to Cu Chi district. Each tour costs between 399,000 VND (about 17.1 USD) and 2.1 million VND (90.2 USD).

Famed places in the inner areas include the HCM City Post Office, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Binh Tay Market, and the War Remnants Museum. While Can Gio district is famous for the Vam Sat eco-tourism site and Rung Sac Military Base, Cu Chi district is most known for its historical relic site of Cu Chi Tunnels.

Hoa said these tours will be provided at the best prices but still ensure service quality. She added that in most of the tours, participants will have a chance to visit local museums which will help them learn about the citys history.

Additionally, local tourism firms have also launched many discounted trips such as boat or motorcycle tours. Relevant services like shopping, eating, transportation and dental tourism will also be offered at competitive prices under the programme.

HCM City welcomed 6.1 million foreign tourist arrivals between January and October in 2018, up over 20 percent year on year, Hoa said.

She expressed her belief that the tourism promotion programme will not only satisfy holiday makers from across Vietnam and other countries but also attract city dwellers to local attractions to learn more about their citys cultural and historical values.A bird view of Ha Long-Hai Phong Expressway. Illustrative image (Source: news.zing.vn)

The Van Don-Mong Cai highway will be constructed under the build-operate-transfer (BOT) and public-private partnership (PPP) contract at the total cost of more than 11 trillion VND (474.4 million USD).

Quang Ninh Peoples Committee has signed the contract with the joint venture of Long Van Infrastructure Investment and Development Co.,Ltd, Van Don Sun JSC and Cong Thanh Transportation and Construction Corporation.

The 80.2km-long highway will have four lanes and is designed for average speed of 100 km per hour. It will run through the districts of Van Don, Tien Yen, Dam Ha and Hai Ha and Mong Cai city.

Construction is expected to be completed within 22 months. Fees will be collected for 20 years on the way.

Once the road is completed, it will connect with the Hanoi-Hai Phong and Hanoi-Lao Cai highways, creating the longest highway in Vietnam that runs from Lao Cai in the northern mountainous province of Lao Cai to Mong Cai via Hanoi and Hai Phong. The highway will serve as an important transport gateway linking Vietnam and China and countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), helping boost cross-border trade and turn Quang Ninh into a trade and service hub in the region.

The Van Don-Mong Cai highway is also expected to facilitate access to the Van Don international airport, which is slated to open in late December.

When operating, the Van Don international airport will serve such big jets as A350 and B777 and is capable of catering for 2.5 million passengers a year by 2020 and 5 million passengers by 2030.

The airport authority has been working with the provincial authorities and other sectors concerned to seek markets, focusing on Southeast and Northeast Asia and domestic routes to destinations in the central and southern regions, like Hue, Da Nang, Cam Ranh, Da Lat and Phu Quoc.The signing of the MoU to build Ericsson Vietnams IoT Innovation Hub

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Vietnamese Ministry of Science and Technology last week marked an important milestone in the 25 years of operations of Ericsson Vietnam. Why did you choose to make the move this time?

The IoT Innovation Hub will be jointly established in 2019 by Ericsson and the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) at Hoa Lac High-Tech Park.

Its prime purpose is to accelerate the adoption of Industry 4.0 innovative applications across industries such as manufacturing, transport, and agriculture, making these industries more efficient and accessible through digital transformation. IoT marries the physical world to cyberspace, ensuring that objects or things, in addition to people, are connected to high speed mobile Internet.

Ericsson predicts that the number of cellular IoT connections is expected to reach 4.1 billion by 2024  increasing at an annual growth rate of 27 per cent. This next wave of technological advancement promises that anything and everything that benefits from being connected to the Internet will be connected to the Internet.

The IoT Innovation Hub will be a research and development (R&D) platform, an education and training platform, and a startup entrepreneurship platform that creates an environment conducive to innovation, inviting a broad range of diverse stakeholders from the government, local and international businesses, startup entrepreneurs, students, and innovators to join forces and collaborate within a creative ecosystem that motivates and encourages the creation of new innovative use case applications that will ultimately transform all industries over time.

Data is the new oil of tomorrow that fuels the Internet, whilst the Internet is the engine that will increasingly drive Vietnams next wave of socioeconomic development, transforming Vietnam into a smart nation and knowledge-based digital economy. Over the past three years alone, Vietnams digital or Internet economy has tripled in size, reaching $9 billion today.

Having been present in Vietnam for 25 years, what technology innovations has Ericsson brought to Vietnam? The Vietnamese government is now paying more attention to technology innovations to develop smart cities and e-government so as to better adapt to the digital age. How can Ericsson support Vietnam on this path?

Since 1993 when Ericsson first established its presence in Vietnam and launched mobile networks in partnership with the leading mobile operators, the poverty rate in Vietnam has dramatically decreased from 53 to less than 3 per cent in 2018. The country has diversified its economy whilst also enjoying an average GDP growth rate of over 6 per cent during the period as it transitioned from a low-income to a middle-income economy.

The advent of 2G (GSM) mobile communications in 1993, coupled with ubiquitous access to Internet connectivity through 3G and 4G mobile broadband networks, provided a greater number of people across Vietnam increased prosperity and opportunities for a better life, irrespective of whether they were residing in urban centers or regional, rural, and mountainous areas. Indeed, mobile communications drove and continues to drive an inclusive socioeconomic growth for all  ensuring no one is left behind.

The government has also recognised the need to encourage more foreign direct investment (FDI) in high-tech innovation with a stronger focus on technology transfer to local companies, whilst better integrating them into the global supply chains of foreign companies.

The establishment of our joint Ericsson and MoST IoT Innovation Hub will create an environment that is conducive to the facilitation of technology transfer and supply chain integration, as well as enhancing innovation export opportunities for Vietnamese companies.

Brunetti received a medal for his contributions in Vietnam

How does the IoT Innovation Hub operate? What are its key impacts?

As the leading supplier of 4G mobile networks technology in Vietnam, working across all the mobile operators as strategic partners, Ericssons ambition is to favourably leverage this advanced capability and dominant market presence to actively facilitate and orchestrate pivotal ecosystem partnerships across government, mobile operators, network providers, application developers, content providers, startup entrepreneurs, and students by providing a space where it is safe and welcoming to innovate, experiment, fail fast, learn, and grow.

As Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc so eloquently described, failure is the mother of success and we need to encourage people in Vietnam to embrace opportunities, take calculated risks, dare to dream and not fear failure. Our IoT Innovation Hub will create a sense of safety and experimentation, and most importantly, a spirit of collaboration.

We view innovation as the key to Vietnams future prosperity and ongoing socioeconomic development, and we intend to invest in Vietnams future by leveraging the nations upcoming ICT talent, supporting the governments ambition of becoming a top 10 software development and digital content outsourcing services nation in the near future.

We also plan to support the government and mobile operators in building the first 5G networks in Vietnam from 2020, with trials expected in the 2019 timeframe, leveraging the extensive 4G network infrastructure we have already supplied nationwide, seamlessly and cost efficiently upgrading it to 5G IoT capabilities.

The EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) are expected to take effect in 2019. What should the Vietnamese government do to encourage multinational technology groups like Ericsson to invest more in Vietnam, thus making greater contribution to the country's technology development?

The government has demonstrated strong visionary leadership in launching strategic initiatives to further stimulate and motivate European companies like Ericsson to invest in innovation. As an example, the prime minister of Vietnam invited the European Chamber of Commerce to become an active member of the Advisory Council for Administrative Reform (ACAPR) in late 2017, providing European businesses a chance to provide inputs and global insights on how to further improve the ease of doing business in Vietnam through simplified procedures, regulations, and legal frameworks.

The EVFTA motivates Ericsson to increasingly invest in innovation initiatives in Vietnam, focused on 4G and 5G IoT collaborations with the government and operators with the aim of supporting Vietnams Industry 4.0 agenda and the governments recently launched National Innovation Network Programme, particularly as it relates to increased technology transfer and building up Vietnams innovation capacity. Ericsson has subsequently forged a strategic IoT innovation partnership with the MoST on November 28, 2018, as well as intending to establish an R&D partnership in 2019 which will involve many talented Vietnamese software development engineers residing in Vietnam.

We view innovation as the key to Vietnams future prosperity and ongoing socioeconomic development, and we intend to invest in Vietnams future by leveraging the nations upcoming ICT talent, supporting the governments ambition and vision.

How did you feel when receiving the medal for your contribution to sustainable business development in Vietnam by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI)?

I was extremely honoured and humbled to receive the medal from the VCCI. It is my second medal, having also received a medal of recognition from the Ministry of Information and Communications in 2014 for my contribution to the development of the ICT industry in Vietnam.

In both cases, I was extremely proud to be recognised and acknowledged by the Vietnamese government for my passion for Vietnam and its people, reflecting my respect for the government, the people, and the culture and traditions of Vietnam.

I wish to share this special recognition with my team at Ericsson Vietnam as they inspire me every day to make a difference, a positive change for the people of Vietnam by leveraging our assets, capabilities, and training staff and partners to focus on investing and innovating technology for good.

I wish to take this moment to especially thank chairman of the VCCI Vu Tien Loc, for his belief and trust in me and Ericsson, and I also wish to acknowledge the many wonderful hard working people of Ericsson across Vietnam, Myanmar, and across the world, for we indeed work as one team towards a commonly aligned interest and vision.

I am happy and truly blessed by this great honour bestowed upon me. I truly love Vietnam and its people, and I wish to continue the long journey that started for me in 1996 when I first began my association with Vietnam.Le Thi Hong Hao, general director of the Ministry of Health's National Institute for Food Control, handing over the certification attesting to the quality of local specialitiesto the director general of Big C Thang Long

This programme is organised by the Yen Bai Department of Industry and Trade in collaboration with Central Group Vietnam and will last until December 9, 2018 at 15 Big C supermarkets in the northern region in order to strengthen demand and added-value, as well as develop Vietnamese agricultural brands.

During the event, people in Hanoi and neighbouring provinces will be able to experience and purchase Yen Bais most famous specialities certified for food hygiene and safety, such as smoked buffalo/pork meat, tangerines, noodles, wild bamboo shoots, rice, cinnamon rolls, and taro, among others.

With the most affordable prices, 15 Big C supermarkets expect to sell several tonnes of these specialities during the event.

With promotion campaigns and attractive events, the Week of Yen Bais specialities in Hanoi 2018 is expected to promote brands and product quality, as well as enable Yen Bais specialities to reach out to customers in Hanoi and neighbouring provinces. This will contribute to Yen Bais socioeconomic development.

Customers showed great interest in Yen Bai tangerines

At the launching ceremony, Pham Trung Lan, deputy director general of the Yen Bai Department of Industry and Trade, said: Over the last years, Yen Bai has boosted production and improved the quality of its products, matching the food hygiene and safety requirements of consumption markets, and has built several prestigious brands like the Gioi Phien noodle, Dai Minh grapefruit, Van Yen cinnamon, Tu Le sticky rice, and Seng Cu rice. We hope that Yen Bais specialities will be able to increase their markets through the campaign.

Meanwhile, Le Thi Mai Linh, Central Group Vietnams executive vice president for Corporate Relations and Communications, said that as retailersdistributing goods to customers, Big C supermarkets and Central Group Vietnam often collaborate with ministries, agencies, and localities to hold programmes introducing and advertising agricultural products and local specialities.

He expressed hope that customers of Hanoi and other provinces will enjoy the Week of Yen Bais specialities in Hanoi 2018, contributing to the implementation of Central Group Vietnams commitment to help Vietnam prosper through better quality of life. Linh added that the group is ready to support suppliers and producers, as well as local small- and medium-sized enterprises to expand their distribution network into modern retail channels and add value to agricultural products, thereby developing their brands.

The Week of Yen Bais specialities in Hanoi 2018 was organised with the same format and sentiment as previous programmes held by Big C and Central Group Vietnam, such as the Week of Northwestern and Nothern Mountainous Provinces specialities at Big C An Lac in Ho Chi Minh Citys Binh Tan District and 15 Big C supermarkets in the north; the Week of Song Das Fish at Big C supermarkets in northern provinces; the Week of Hung Yen Longan; the Week of Longan and Son Las Safe Farm Products; the Week of OCOP products; the Week of Luc Ngan Bac Giang Lychee in Hanoi; and the Week of Ham Yen-Tuyen Quang Oranges among others.Across the stock market, banks, property developers, securities firms and construction companies were among the best performing groups. - Photo tin247.com

China and the United States agreed to a ceasefire in their bitter trade war on Saturday after high-stakes talks in Argentina between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, including no escalated tariffs on January 1.

The benchmark VN-Index on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange edged up 1.98 per cent to close at 944.86 points on Monday morning.

The index touched an all-time record high of 1,204.33 points on April 9, but then declined 23 per cent to close last week at 926.54 points.

The minor HNX Index on the Ha Noi Stock Exchange lost 24 per cent in the same period.

It rose 1.67 per cent to end at 106.57 points on Monday morning.

Large-cap stocks continued driving the market, lifting the blue-chip VN30 Index by 2.20 per cent to 914.48 points.

Across the stock market, banks, property developers, securities firms and construction companies were among the best performing groups.

Nearly 120.8 million shares were traded on the two local exchanges, worth VND2.5 trillion (US$107 million).

The afternoon trading session starts at 1pm.Hung Yen Province officials recently met with VBSP representatives to discuss the bank's future growth

VBSP Hung Yen representatives recently met with the local authorities of the province to discuss the results of microfinance programmes offered by the bank. The capital reserves have increased by 14 times since 2002 to reach VND2.5 trillion ($108.7 million) in 2018.

Nguyen Thi Xuan, director of VBSP Hung Yen, revealed that the bank is carrying out ten microfinance programmes with preferential credit rates. At the moment, more than 81,000 households in the area have a total amount of VND2.48 trillion ($107.8 million) of outstanding loans, with the average growth rate of 20.9 per cent a year. More importantly, capital from VBSP has enabled 712,000 poor households to open a business, seek a new job, work overseas or finish their studies. At least 21,000 workers have found jobs, 2,455 people have been sent abroad for work, over 56,000 students have received study grants, more than 340,000 clean water projects have been completed, and 2,925 houses have been built for poor families.

Nguyen Van Phong, Chairman of the Hung Yen Peoples Committee, was impressed with the results. According to Phong, VBSP Hung Yen has ensured superior credit quality, carried out a rigorous loan repayment programme, and kept the number of bad debts very low. The loans from VBSP have helped Hung Yen improve economically, with its GDP growing by 9.64 per cent in 2018.

Other senior officials added that the local authorities will do all they can to help VBSP provide loans for a wider range of impoverished people. This includes transferring part of the local budget to VBSP, as stated in Decision 40-CT/TW released in November 2014. The target is VND100 billion ($4.3 million), said officials.

VBSP and Hung Yen authorities will continue to co-operate closely in microfinance programmes

However, there is still a lot of room for improvement in VBSP Hung Yens activities. Specifically, Phong suggested that VBSP extend help in housing and accommodation matters for poor people. Moreover, clean water and other hygiene projects in the area still need capital, requiring assistance from VBSP.

Duong Quyet Thang, CEO of VBSP, replied that the bank is committed to providing capital for everyone that needs it, including poor families in Hung Yen province. Thang thanked Hung Yen authorities to transfer the local budget to VBSP, praising that microfinance programmes at Hung Yen have been immensely effective in reducing poverty and creating more jobs to local residents.

VBSP Hung Yen will strive for greater efficiency in the future, with detailed plans for each group of borrowers. Some groups require immediate help, such as those recently made homeless or jobless. VBSP Hung Yen will make sure that people here receive the capital they need for a better life, said Thang.

VBSP creating jobs for farmers By taking out loans from the Vietnam Bank for Social Policies, various families in rural areas have gained access to credit for business activities. They ...

Micro finance transforms the lives of poor Vietnamese women Access to micro finance programmes has helped thousands of women in Vietnam escape poverty and furthered the gender equality agenda.

Vietnam Bank for Social Policies celebrates 16 years of meaningful work The Vietnam Bank for Social Policies is ranked among the biggest micro-finance providers in the world, said the Asia-Pacific Rural and Agricultural Credit Association. The ...A plane of Vietnam Airlines (Photo: Vietnam Airlines)

The awards were presented at the WTA Grand Final Gala Ceremony 2018 recently in Lisbon, Portugal.

This is the third straight year Vietnam Airlines has been honoured by the WTA, the firm said on December 3, noting the prizes were voted on by experts of the World Travel & Tourism Council and passengers from February 1 to October 24.

Vietnam Airlines has offered premium economy class on international flights using Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A350 planes since this years beginning, offering larger seats and more conveniences to passengers.

It has also promoted Vietnamese culture through cuisine, the carrier said, adding that it chose Vietnamese-Australian chef Luke Nguyen as its Global Cuisine Ambassador in March. He has created a menu imbued with cultural values of the countrys northern, central and southern regions and taken part in Vietnam Airlines promotion events around the world.

The carrier has also offered seasonal fruits of Vietnam on its flights this year. Luc Ngan lychees and Hung Yen longans were the first to be served.

WTA Founder and President Graham Cooke said Vietnam Airlines has made great strides in improving customer services and upgrading its fleet.

For his part, Deputy Director General of Vietnam Airlines Le Hong Ha said the awards not only affirm the carriers quality but are also a driving force for it to improve further.Vietnamese brewers are getting crowded out by foreign beer brands

Foreign giants dominate

Vietnam's annual beer consumption leads Southeast Asia and is ranked the third in Asia after China and Japan. The beer market of 90 million people brings lucrative profit for beer producers.

Especially, the average beer consumption in Vietnam is expected to increase by 65 per cent in 2021. Vietnamese people spend about $3.4 billion per year on beer, at an average of $300 per person.

The Vietnam Beverage Association (VBA) stated that beer consumption in Vietnam has reached nearly four billion litres in 2017, with the average Vietnamese people drinking nearly 45 litres of beer during the year, according to cafeF.

The industry is characterised by a growing population as well as a rising number of middle income individuals. Consequently, various foreign beverage companies have expanded to this lucrative market, creating a competitive market environment. Over the recent years, ThaiBev, Heineken, and Carlsberg appeared as the three most notable foreign giants working to take over the Vietnamese beer market by buying out domestic firms and expanding their market share.

Thai Beverage Public Company Limited (ThaiBev) unveiled Vision 2020, its roadmap for the next six years. Thaibev aims to solidify its position as the largest and most profitable beverage company in Southeast Asia. To support and sustain this growth, the group intends to diversify its revenue streams, which currently stem mainly from the sale of alcoholic beverages in Thailand.

As such, revenue contribution from non-alcoholic beverages is targeted to increase to over 50 per cent by 2020. Revenue contribution from the sale of products outside of Thailand is also targeted to rise to over 50 per cent in the same timeframe.

According to the groups report, its 2017 revenue hit $8.7 billion, 60 per cent of which came from Thailand, and other ASEAN countries contributed 36 per cent.

ThaiBev believes that the beer brand from Vietnam is strong enough to exploit both Indochina and Myanmar markets in their plans. In fact, the acquisition of 53.39 per cent of Saigon Beer, Alcohol and Beverage Corporation (Sabeco)s shares has increased Thaibev's market share in the ASEAN from 23 to 26 per cent, according to the Bangkok Post.

On October 30, 2018, Sabeco published Resolution No.111A/2018/NQ-HDQT about lifting the foreign ownership limit on its website. Accordingly, foreign investors will be able to own up to 100 per cent of the capital instead of the previous 49 per cent  a decision which might bring in some much needed expertise and capital to turn the losing tides.

This means that if the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) intends to divest the rest of its 36 per cent at Sabeco, Thaibev would be able to take over Sabeco the way the firm took over VietBev.

Analysts also believe that ThaiBev will soon transfer Sabeco under its direct management to shorten ownership lines as well as restructure the financial capacity of their businesses.

HEINEKENs major beer brands include Heineken, Tiger, Larue, and Amstel, which owned nearly 22 per cent of the Vietnamese beer market in 2017. In particular, HEINEKEN holds the high-end segment in hand with about 67 per cent of the market share, 40 per cent of which belongs to the Tiger brand and 27 per cent to the Heineken brand.

Being number one in the high-end segment helps HEINEKEN earn billions of dollars in annual profit, although the firm is not the largest beer company in Vietnam. Currently the company owns five factories, three of which are in the south and two in central Vietnam, which are the two key markets of the company.

Danish brewery Carlsberg, after taking over Hue Brewery Ltd., holds the fourth largest market share. According to the company, each of its customers in Vietnam consume up to 34.5 litres beer per year.

Habeco is currently the third in the market. Carlsberg's ownership at Habeco amounts to nearly 4 per cent of the Vietnamese beer market.

Especially, since becoming a strategic shareholder at Habeco, the firm has repeatedly expressed its desire to raise its ownership to over 51 per cent. The company also said to be working with the Ministry of Industry and Trade to negotiate the deal, according to cafeF.

If Carlsberg becomes the dominant shareholder of Habeco, the Vietnamese beer market will be practically devoid of domestic enterprises.

The sad reality for Vietnamese brewers

The Vietnamese beer market is now almost exclusively in the hands of foreign giants. Vietnamese brands are gradually disappearing. In many cases, after establishing a joint venture with a domestic company, the foreign partner bought out its domestic partner, turning the entity into a foreign business.

Sapporo is a prime example for this. After buying 29 per cent stake of Vinataba at Sapporo Vietnam Ltd. in 2015, the company officially became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sapporo International Inc. (Sapporo Holdings Ltd.  Japan).

The company is actively investing in building its brand and currently ranks third in Ho Chi Minh City after Sabeco and Heineken, as reported by cafeF.

According to Euromonitor, the Japanese brewery owned about 1.7 per cent of the domestic beer market in 2017.

Carlsberg has been following the same strategy in Vietnam. It entered the market through a joint venture with Vietnamese partners to establish Hue Brewery Ltd., the owner of the Huda trademark since 1994.

However, after nearly two decades, Carlsberg officially paid VND1.875 trillion ($81.52 million) in the end of 2011 to buy 50 per cent of the shares from the Thua Thien-Hue Peoples Committee, thereby acquiring 100 per cent at Hue Huda beer.

Another example of this is the beer brand Zorok, featuring Vinamilk.

In 2006, Vinamilk established SABmiller Vietnam Co., Ltd., a joint venture with the world famous brewery SABmiller. The SABmiller beer factory was officially born in early 2007 and launched the Zorok brand.

However, the distribution concept of utilising Vinamilks milk distribution network to also sell Zorok beer could not hold a candle to international brands in the market such as Tiger, Heineken, and San Miguel, among others. After only two years of floundering, Vinamilk had to sell its stake in SABmiller.

Shortly thereafter, SABmiller had to sell its operations in Vietnam to Anheuser-Busch InBev because of bad business.

In 2003, Tan Hiep Phat invested $20 million to produce the Laser beer brand. Even though it was a new brand on the market, the price of Laser was higher than Tiger's and was comparable to Heineken. After eight months, Laser disappeared from the market.

Consumption behaviour in Vietnam

Operating in the Vietnamese beer market necessitates the understanding of the differences between the consumption behaviours in the three main regions of Vietnam, as reported in the following infographic by the EU-Vietnam Business Network (EBVN).

Brand expert Vo Van Quang shared with Tri thuc tre that the beer market is no longer a competitive game of products, but a competition of brands. Brewers fail because they do not understand Vietnamese culture and consumers.

Vietnamese consumers are increasingly willing to spend more on high-end products. Diversifying products, capturing the tastes of consumers is important for brewers to continue to grow.The VBF is the leading policy dialogue between the Vietnamese government and the business community

The forum will be organised at Lotte Hotel (Hanoi) by the Ministry of Planning and Investment in collaboration with the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC). As planned, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc will attend and address the VBF.

There are three sessions in the forum, including capital resources for infrastructure development, improving knowledge on modern industry, and overcoming obstacles of businesses. Thereby, working groups on infrastructure, power and energy, capital market, banking, investment-trade, tax and customs, education, agriculture, tourism, along with foreign business associations like EuroCham, AmCham, KorCham, and the Japan Business Association in Vietnam (JBAV) will be present and report at the event.

Major content at the forum will include strengthening public-private co-operation; capital mobilisation; high-quality credit  key resource for innovation; improving competitiveness and simplifying administrative procedures to grab opportunities of free trade agreements and new-generation agreements; transparency of tax and customs for the development of Vietnamese businesses; reforming Direct Power Purchase Agreement (DPPA) and the Power Purchase Agreement.

Additionally, other issues like new skills for Industry 4.0 jobs; precision agriculture and promoting products in the world market; and new approaches for tourism-restaurant-hotel services will also be discussed at the VBF.

Thousands of representatives are expected to participate in the event, including leaders of ministries, agencies, foreign affairs agencies, and organisations, as well as leaders of hundreds of domestic and foreign-invested businesses.

VBF, which was established in 1997, is a channel of policy dialogue between senior leaders of the Vietnamese government and the business community, covering almost all economic fields in order to develop a favourable business climate, mobilise private sector investment, and spur sustainable economic development in Vietnam.Phsar Commune, Kampong Chhnang province  Ol Thida and her husband were sure they had no choice but to leave their tiny rural village. They couldnt find work anywhere nearby. They owned almost nothing, not even the plot of land their palm-thatched hut was built on. They owed a microfinance institution $250, a debt whose principal never seemed to shrink, no matter how much of their spare cash they forked over to the bank. They were desperate to meet the deadline for repayment at the end of the year. So Thidas husband, Prak Chea, left for Thailand to work as a laborer on a cassava farm and send his wages home. He told her to stay home to care for their two daughters and meager property: a few pots and pans, a few cows. But the debt was not getting smaller. All Thida could do for income was make baskets and catch fire ants to sell at the local market. Both of these brought paltry sums. She did not have the sewing skills to work at a garment factory. So she, too, decided to migrate. She left for Phnom Penh in October to look for a job as a waitress. I couldnt even make 10,000 riel [$2.50] for my family, said the 34-year-old mother of two. How could I stay here?

Her daughters, 7-year-old Meta and 14-year-old Leakhena, were growing up and would need more than she could provide if she stayed in the village. Once in Phnom Penh, she could send money home to them. She arranged for them to sleep at her sisters nearby home. She would call them every day on her sisters phone to check in, and Leakhena would cook meals for Meta in the familys own hut. It was a risk, but seemed like the best option in a life of bad options. But the familys new life quickly descended into tragedy. Three days after she left for the capital city, on October 18, Thida called home as usual, but her sister couldnt find the girls. Family members began searching for them, but they werent in any of the usual places: not in the hut, not in the rice field where they worked every day. In despair, Thida consulted a fortuneteller in the capital, who insisted the girls were in the hut after all. The search party returned to the house and opened a box in the hut that was used to store clothes. Inside were the bodies of Leakhena and Meta. The older child had been raped and strangled; the younger had been beaten.

A 25-year-old neighbor was arrested the next day for the crime. Chhum Poy was a distant relative; the girls had called him uncle. He confessed to police that he had taken advantage of their being home alone to drop by the hut and rape Leakhena. He admitted to strangling her, then beating and smothering Meta since she had witnessed the attack. The phone fell from my hand when I heard they were killed, said Thida. She said she would not have dreamed her children were in danger of a violent crime in their tiny hometown, much less from a man they were so familiar with. I had never thought about rape in this village, said Thida. Metas and Leakhenas deaths caught the public imagination and were widely discussed by Cambodians on social media, with many people blaming Thida for leaving her children alone, or lamenting the decline of morality in Cambodian society. But the truth is that there is a more systemic problem. Stories like this are becoming more common in Cambodia, as migration from rural areas to Phnom Penh and Thailand is increasing rapidly, said Chhan Sokunthea, the head of the childrens rights unit at local rights group Adhoc. This demographic shift means that some villages are primarily populated by children, the elderly, and men who are unemployable because they use drugs or struggle with mental illness. But children are still expected to do traditional forms of labor, such as collecting forest products and herding cows, that bring them into remote parts of the countryside. Sokunthea said children from poor families whose parents were migrants were at greatest risk of physical and sexual abuse. In Phsar commune alone, more than 500 peoplemostly men and women in the prime of lifehave migrated away from the countryside to work, according to Bin Sophan, the commune chief. The suspect in the girls murder was not one of them. He used drugs and alcohol and did not work steadily, Sophan said. Nhep Sopheap, secretary-general at the Cambodia National Council for Children, a government body, said she was very concerned about the effects on children of poverty and migration. She said the rape of children was of particular worry. We still have limited awareness in the countryside, she said, adding that Cambodia was working on drafting a child protection law that dealt specifically with crimes against children and would fill gaps in the Criminal Code. Rape and sexual abuse remain a threat to the well-being of children in Cambodia, despite significant progress being made by the Government to improve the protection of children from harm, said Bunly Meas, a communications specialist at Unicef, the United Nations childrens agency, which has been working with the Cambodian government on the law. It is important for parents and caregivers to ensure that young children are never be left home alone as this exposes them to various forms of neglect and harm, he added. Children should be supervised at all times.Cambodia has said that banned members of the countrys main opposition force may be allowed to return to politics and closed media outlets will be allowed to reopen.

Dozens of journalists, activists, government critics and members of the banned Cambodia National Rescue Party have been released from jail since Prime Minister Hun Sens Cambodian Peoples Party won a landslide election victory in July after the Supreme Court dissolved the CNRP last year.

The move is thought to be a response to the European Unions threats of removing Cambodia from a preferential trade scheme that the countrys garment industry, Cambodias largest formal employer, relies on for a large portion of its exports.

Previous concessions offered by Hun Sen have not deterred the E.U. from threatening to suspend the trade benefits Cambodia enjoys.

In a statement on Monday, the foreign ministry said: In order to further promote democracy and the rule of law, the National Assembly is reviewing legal provisions to enable individuals who were banned from politics to resume their political activities.

It added that the pressure on civil society groups, unions, and shuttered media outlets such as the Cambodia Daily and Radio Free Asia, could also be eased.

The move could see some 118 CNRP politicians allowed to return to politics following the ban imposed by the courts in November 2017.

Kem Sokha, the leader of the banned CNRP, is currently under house arrest awaiting trial on treason charges.

In October, the E.U. gave Cambodia 12 months to improve its democratic and human rights record before the suspension from the trading scheme would come into effect.

George Edgar, E.U. ambassador to Cambodia, could not be reached for comment.

Lao Monghay, an independent political analyst, said without the release of Sokha the E.U. was unlikely to accept the concessions offered by Phnom Penh.Seda Nak left her restaurant here one recent morning to join fellow immigration campaigners to hand-make 2,300 paper cranes, which she says represents the 23 million immigrants in the United States.

Nak and her friends are leading a community effort as part of a national campaign that opposes a new public charge rule proposal from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). They see the proposal as discriminatory against the countrys immigrant population.

We're actually doing it to show that we are all affected by this concept and the negative connotation of what an immigrant is, Nak told VOA Khmer at the Sunday morning gathering at the Eaton DC Hotels library.

I thought it's a great way to engage the community ... by showing that we do support our own as well as our neighbors who are affected by this, said Nak, a businesswoman and activist whose Cambodian grandmother came to the United States as a refugee in the 1980s.

The paper bird cranes will be distributed to the Department of Homeland Security or the White House, Nak said.

Under the proposal, the DHS will determine whether immigrants constitute a public charge, meaning they are defined as likely to become primarily dependent on the government for subsistence and require long-term care at government expense.

Under U.S. immigration law, defining someone as a public charge means they are unlikely to be admitted to the United States and can be denied a green card.

Advocates say the proposal will negatively affect millions of immigrants and potential immigrants who need government assistance, such as food stamps, housing and health care benefits.

Unfortunately, the more of these public assistance [programs] that you do use, [the more they] can actually be used against you, said Nak. So in a sense it's a little bit of an elitist discriminatory practice that the DHS is actually putting in place.

Thu Nguyen, senior communications associate at OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates, one of about a dozen of non-profit organizations participating in the campaign, named OneNation, said: This is an issue because a lot of the immigrants when they first come here, they need a little bit of federal assistance in order to get their foot in America and build themselves up and so this policy proposal, if it passes, will affect 23 million immigrants who are looking to get a green card.

The advocacy groups have travelled and organized to increase public awareness in several states with large immigrant populations, including California, New York and some Midwestern states.

The campaigners say the proposed regulation was intended to create a de facto legal wall to keep immigrants out and to rig the system against children, elders, people who are low income, limited English and those who have medical conditions or with disabilities.

But Trump administration officials say the rule was aimed at promoting what they call self-sufficiency for those admitted into the U.S.

Self-sufficiency has long been a basic principle of the United States immigration law, the proposal says.

Kirstjen Nielsen, DHS secretary, told NBC News recently that the rule would promote immigrant self-sufficiency and protect finite resources by ensuring that they are not likely to become burdens on American taxpayers.

According to recent research by the Pew Research Center, the majority of Americans view immigrants as having a positive impact on the country due to the work ethic and talents they bring.

Everyone deserves peace and happiness. If you can help someone with that, why not? asks Mya Brown, a salon owner in Washington, DC, who joined Nak at the hotels library. Just have a heart and help out and, you know, we're trying to spread love around the world, so do it.

Campaigners and members of the public have until December 10 to submit comments on the proposal to the DHS.

No one wants to be homeless, said Dominic Green, Browns boyfriend and a freelance photographer and filmmaker. No one wants to be deported to another place just because they try to live a life that is better than wherever they came from.Russias recent attack on Ukrainian naval vessels will likely top the agenda at a NATO meeting this week  as the alliance searches for a robust response in the wake of the Kremlins latest act of aggression on Europes borders. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is scheduled to join other foreign ministers meeting Tuesday in Brussels, as American demands for more military spending from NATO allies will also be discussed. Henry Ridgwell reports from London.China's president on Sunday signed new trade deals with Argentina as the Asian giant expands its growing role in Latin American economies.

Presidents Mauricio Macri of Argentina and Xi Jinping of China announced the more than 30 agriculture and investment deals during a state visit following the Group of 20 summit of leaders in Buenos Aires. The deals include an agreement to export Argentine cherries to China and an expansion of a currency swap.

China is among Argentina's top export markets, especially for agricultural commodities that are the engine of its economy. It is also one of Argentina's biggest lenders, financing about $18.2 billion in infrastructure and other projects, according to the Inter-American Dialogue, a Washington-based think tank.

China's development benefits Argentina, our region and the world, Macri said during a ceremony at the presidential residence in the outskirts of the Argentine capital.

We have complementary countries. There are few countries in the world that can buy so many of the high-quality products that we're capable of making, Macri said.

The visit comes after U.S. officials said they had reached a 90-day truce in the trade dispute with China that has rattled financial markets and imperiled global economic growth. That announcement followed a Saturday dinner meeting between Xi and President Donald Trump.

Argentina also granted Xi the top honor awarded to foreign politicians, and the Argentine polo association gave the Chinese leader a polo horse. The South American country is home to the world's top polo players, and Macri said that he wants the sport to make a comeback in China.

Photos released by Argentina's presidency showed a smiling Xi petting the pony with one hand and holding the reins with the other.



Macri also put a red polo helmet emblazoned with China's flag on Xi's head.

Xi congratulated Macri on a successful summit and said that both nations believe that the G-20 spirit of solidarity must prevail in the firm defense of multilateralism and free trade to build an open global economy and foment the world's prosperity and stability.

Xi will go on to visit Panama, which has been negotiating a free-trade deal with China after shifting its diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taiwan last year, a move that led to complaints from U.S. officials.Clashes between the army and rebels loyal to a renegade former general in eastern DR Congo have killed 18 people, military sources said on Monday, in the latest violence before crucial elections to replace President Joseph Kabila this month.

Fighting killed 14 rebels and four soldiers in Fizi, a region of South Kivu, a mineral-rich province which is prone to ethnic tensions, the sources said.

The sources said one soldier and two rebels were killed early Monday in fighting.

Earlier, army spokesman Captain Dieudonne Kaserek, told AFP 12 rebel fighters were killed including a deputy commander known as Alida. He said three of the soldiers drowned in a river during combat.

Violence in the troubled eastern region is just one complication before December 23 elections in DR Congo, which has not seen a peaceful transfer of power since independence from colonial Belgium in 1960.

Under international pressure, Kabila has agreed to step aside, but critics worry he will try to engineer a win for his handpicked successor, former hardline interior minister Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary.

The eastern clashes pit the military against rebels loyal to a former army general, William Amuri Yakutumba, whose militia is one of the armed groups operating in the region against Kabila.

The militia is allied to rebels of the National Liberation Front based in neighboring Burundi, according to several regional sources.

In September of last year the Yakutumba rebels attacked the town of Uvira on Lake Tanganyika opposite the Burundian capital Bujumbura. UN forces pushed them back with Congolese support.

In February the military said they had wiped out the Yakutumba with help from Burundi, where some of them had taken refuge.

Trading accusations

Western powers are closely watching the presidential election in the vast mineral-wealthy nation, where a UN peace-keeping force, now with 16,000 troops on the ground, has been operating for two decades.

Kabila's second and final elected term finished nearly two years ago, but he has remained in office thanks to a caretaker clause in the constitution.

His main opponent, Felix Tshisekedi, who has a promised a return to rule of law, was greeted by tens of thousands of supporters when he came back to Kinshasa last month to start his campaign.

But Kabila's opponents and supporters traded accusations of electoral violence on Monday as political tensions simmer less than three weeks before the presidential vote.

The pro-Kabila coalition said opposition supporters attacked a march over the weekend, injuring dozens while Tshisekedi's UDPS party said police detained more than 40 of his supporters in 48 hours.

Kabila's FCC coalition said "young delinquents, drug addicts who are UDPS supporters" attacked a march for Ramazani Shadary on Saturday in Mbuji Mayi in East Kasai province.

"We have 35 seriously injured and with fractures," an FCC statement said.

Local governor Alphonse Ngoyi Kasanji said on Monday there were 15 wounded treated at a local hospital.

A source at Tshisekedi's UDPS party said police had encircled its headquarters in Mbuji Mayi between Sunday night and Monday morning and had detained dozens of his supporters over the weekend.

"Around 20 of our activists were arrested on Saturday and are still in police custody. One of our parliamentary candidates is still reported missing," regional UDPS representative Denis Kalombo told AFP.

Vincent Ngoyi, a local official, said police had been deployed to UDPS headquarters in the region for "security reasons" because they were responsible for unrest on Saturday.China and the United States have agreed to put tariffs on hold and give negotiations a chance. But the short 90-day period the two have to finish negotiations, which includes major holidays both in Washington and Beijing, will require quick steps, analysts say.



Chinas pledges to purchase what the White House calls substantial amounts of agricultural, energy, industrial and other products are relatively straightforward. What will be more difficult are the other items that Washington said the two agreed on.



Those include the pledge to immediately begin negotiations on structural changes such as forced technology transfers, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber theft, services and agriculture.

Raymond Yeung, a senior economist of Greater China at the Australia and New Zealand Banking Group said that despite the tariff truce, resolving the differences between the two countries and making progress would not be easy.

Markets should not be too happy too early, he said. If you look at the White House statement there is still a lot of structural issues that the Chinese have to fulfill for the U.S. not to increase the tariffs.

Even so, Asian stocks rallied on Monday on news that the U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping had agreed to not impose any new tariffs for the time being. Soybeans climbed to their highest price a bushel in nearly six months.

Liao Qun, chief economist at China Citic Bank International said it was clear that both governments want to talk and work out their differences and that is a positive thing.

But this is merely a cease-fire, he said. Theres still uncertainty that the trade war could be back on in three months.

Both Yeung and Liao said the key lies in what Beijing may be able to do to turn around its Made in China 2025 Initiative. Both analysts do not believe that the industrial policy, which aims to close up huge gaps between the Chinese economy and advanced industrial nations and cut the countrys reliance on foreign technology, will be reversed.

But some tweaks are possible, Liao said.

In principle, China won't back down [on its Made in China 2025 plan]. But there is still room for negotiation on some aspects. Or maybe China can make concessions in other areas in exchange for keeping the plan intact, Liao said.

Made in China 2025 is a 10-year campaign that Beijing has launched to help vault itself up the technology value chain. Many foreign countries and investors worry the plan will only exacerbate existing problems such as forced technology transfers in exchange for market access, alleged intellectual property theft and market protectionism.

The Made in China 2025 plan outlines 10 key sectors in which China seeks advances, including information technology; robotics; medicine and medical devices; and high-tech ships and ocean engineering equipment.

Clearly, the message that both countries were trying to convey in the wake of the meeting was different. To get a sense of those differences, one only needs to look at the statements made by both sides in the wake of the meetings

Despite that both sides are claiming that it was a success if you look at the White House statement they dont even put trade up as the first item, Yeung said. Chinas Xinhua news agency did not even mention the 90-day period. That tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods could still be raised from 10 percent to 25 percent in 90 days if the two fail to reach a deal.

Not only that, but Chinese state media has been largely silent about other details, such as those touching on Made in China 2025 or the specifics of the trade dispute outlined in the White House statement.

An opinion piece in the communist party-backed Global Times said the meeting had given both sides an opportunity to make concrete strides.

The article mentioned the agricultural products that China had agreed to purchase, citing the White House statement, but said little about the other agreements made.

Interestingly, the article did note that White House trade policy adviser Peter Navarros attendance at the meeting in Buenos Aries was not necessarily a bad thing.

The article suggested that Navarros attendance perhaps shows the deal had the support from what the article said was trade hawks. Navarro is seen as one of the more hardline members of President Trumps team when it comes to economic issues with China.

An editorial in the China Daily, which has had very little detail on what the two presidents agreed on, said that while the positive and constructive consensus had helped to clear the air and create some breathing space for more rational thinking, lasting improvement is still dependent on the sincerity of the U.S. to engage in equal-footed consultations with China.Former FBI director James Comey has reached a deal to testify privately to the House Judiciary Committee, backing off his legal fight for an open hearing, his attorney said Sunday.

Comey, whose lawyers went to court to challenge a congressional subpoena, said in a tweet that it was hard to protect my rights without being in contempt.

As part of a deal with legislators, Comey has been told that he is free to speak about the questioning afterward and that a transcript would be released 24 hours after he testifies, his attorney, David Kelley, said.

Comey's lawyers told a federal judge on Friday that the interview should be done in a public setting because they fear that statements from a closed-door interview would be selectively leaked. A lawyer for Congress, however, argued that committees can conduct investigations however they please and Comey had no right to refuse a subpoena or demand a public hearing.

Comey is expected to be questioned about decisions made by the FBI in 2016, including a call not to recommend criminal charges against Democrat Hillary Clinton for her use of a private email server and the FBI's investigation into potential coordination between Russia and Republican Donald Trump's campaign. Trump fired Comey in May 2017.

The interview is scheduled for Friday and Comey will be free to make any or all of that transcript public as he is free to share with the public any of the questions asked and testimony given during the interview, Kelley said.

Because of the deal, Comey has agreed to withdraw his challenge to the subpoena. A judge had been set to rule on the matter on Monday.

The Republican chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Bob Goodlatte, decried Comey's use of baseless litigation and called it an attempt to run out the clock on this Congress, a reference to the few weeks left before Democrats take control.

A transcript of the interview will be released as soon as possible after the interview, in the name of our combined desire for transparency, Goodlatte said.

An anti-immigrant, Eurosceptic far-right party has won its first ever seats in a legislative body in Spain.

With more than 96 percent of the votes counted in Andalusian regional elections Sunday, the VOX party claimed 12 seats, giving a majority to the conservative bloc.

The vote was seen as a first electoral test for Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialist party since he took power in June.



The Socialists won just 33 seats in the Andalusia legislature, compared to 47 in 2015. The center-left party could lose control of Spain's most populated region for the first time in 36 years if the parties on the right can agree to form a government.

It was the worst showing in the history of the Socialist Workers' Party, which has ruled Andalusia for the last 36 years.

Spain has so far avoided the rise of the far-right that has taken over the politics across Europe. But now VOX appears to have taken advantage of the anti-immigrant sentiment sweeping Europe as migrants and asylum seekers flood into Europe from North Africa.The U.S. Holocaust Museum says it has found "compelling evidence of genocide" in Myanmar against the Muslim Rohingya minority, calling on the U.S. government and international governments to hold the Burmese military accountable.

"For the sake of the remnant community of Rohingya still in Burma (Myanmar) and those threatened with being returned, we hope this announcement prods action," Chairman Lee Feinstein of the Museum's genocide watchdog Committee on Conscience said in a statement.

The announcement comes the same day that Public International Law and Policy Group (PILPG), contracted by the U.S. State Department to study the crisis, released a report saying the Myanmar military committed crimes against humanity, genocide and war crimes against the Rohingya.

WATCH: Reports Increase Pressure on US to Change Myanmar Policy

The statements join U.N. investigators, who in August issued a report finding the military had carried out various atrocities against the Rohingya with "genocidal intent."

The U.S. State Department has referred to the military's actions as "ethnic cleansing," but has stopped short of using the term genocide.

"We hope that this leads to a process of review," Naomi Kikoler of the museum's Simon-Skjodt Center for the Prevention of Genocide told reporters during a conference call. "Not just by the U.S. government, but by the international community more broadly."

About 700,000 Rohingya have fled Rakhine state in eastern Myanmar since August 2017, when an attack by Rohingya separatists prompted a brutal military crackdown from the majority-Buddhist country's military that included mass killing of civilians, rape and widespread arson. Most of the refugees have taken shelter in camps in neighboring Bangladesh. The military has justified its actions as necessary to combat terrorism.Germany will not withdraw its political support for the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline with Russia, its foreign minister said on Monday, as some lawmakers suggested curtailing the project to punish Moscow for its seizure of Ukrainian ships and their crew.

Russia is resisting international calls to release three Ukrainian ships seized last month in the Kerch Strait, which controls access to the Sea of Azov near the Crimea region that Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014.

Moscow accuses the 24 sailors of illegally entering Russian waters by trying to pass through the strait. Kyiv says the sailors did nothing wrong, and its ships have the right to pass through the strait to reach Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov.

Several German lawmakers have linked the standoff to support for Nord Stream 2, an $11 billion pipeline from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea.

But Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, a member of the Social Democrats, junior partners in Chancellor Angela Merkel's coalition, told reporters the pipeline was a commercial project that would continue even if German firms pull out.

Remaining part of the project gave Germany political influence, including over Russian energy policy towards Ukraine, Maas said.

"It would still be built, but there would not be anyone advocating for alternative gas transit through Ukraine. That is why we consider it important to remain engaged politically.

Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, a leading candidate to replace Chancellor Angela Merkel at the helm of her Christian Democrat party, said on Sunday one option might be to reduce the amount of gas that will flow through the pipeline.

Juergen Hardt, foreign policy spokesman for Merkel's conservatives in parliament, also raised questions about Nord Stream 2 and said further sanctions against Russia would have to be considered unless diplomatic efforts bore fruit.

"When diplomatic efforts to ease tensions fail, we cannot ignore the question of whether it is responsible to further increase the dependence of Germany and the European Union on Russian gas," he told Reuters.

Not totally unconditional

The pipeline project aims to double capacity of the existing Nord Stream 1 pipeline from next year, bypassing traditional routes through Ukraine.

Germany has insisted Ukraine should continue to play a role - and receive revenues - for allowing gas shipments across its territory. Merkel secured a pledge from Russian President Vladimir Putin on the issue in August, Maas said.

Russia's Gazprom is the sole shareholder in Nord Stream 2, shouldering half of the construction cost. Its Western partners are Germany's Uniper and Wintershall, Anglo-Dutch group Royal Dutch Shell, France's Engie and Austria's OMV.

The United States, also keen to export gas to Europe, argues that the pipeline will harm Ukraine's economic interests and leave Germany dependent on Russia for decades to come.

After meeting Putin at the G-20 summit, Merkel called on Russia to release the Ukrainian sailors and allow shipping access through the Kerch Strait to the Sea of Azov. But she did not endorse further sanctions against Moscow.

Kramp-Karrenbauer, a close Merkel ally, on Friday said the European Union and the United States should consider banning from their ports Russian ships originating from the Sea of Azov in response to the incident.

Another contender for the CDU leadership job, Health Minister Jens Spahn, said it was important to set new limits.

"I think it's an important signal to Vladimir Putin and Russia that Nord Stream 2 is not totally unconditional and it can't be that the project continues whatever he does and how far things are escalated," he said.A group of young female business owners in Guinea Bissau have banded together to increase their business knowledge. They say the cooperation is increasing sales.

From street vendors to women who own their own shops, Adele Gomes likes to encourage young female entrepreneurs in Guinea Bissau.

Gomes is president of the Young Women Entrepreneurs group in Bissau, the capital.

She wants to encourage young women in the West African country to expand their businesses and become financially independent.

Gomes says they created the association because they felt weak, and by banding their ideas together, they can be stronger.

For now, they are a small group of about 12 women who have a variety of businesses - from clothing design to event planning.

This month marks the groups one-year anniversary.

The group organizes an annual exposition in Bissau to showcase its members' products. They also cross-promote each others' brands on social media.

Gomes says her business and other members sales have seen increases since creating the association. This means more people are eager to join, she adds.

Adele dos Santos, another fashion designer, is huddled over her sewing machine, filling orders. She, too, says her sales have gone up. But being a woman can sometimes lead to distinct challenges, she adds.

Adele, who has a daughter, is expected to not only provide financially, but also manage her household.

Sometimes family and other members of the community criticize them for spending too much time working, and not enough time at home, she says.

Part of the problem is Guinea-Bissau, one of the least developed countries in the world, doesn't have enough jobs for men or young people.

Local economist Augusta Henriques says any development projects in the West African country must address high youth unemployment.

According to Henriques, if you give all the economic responsibility to women, and the youth have no prospects, the entire weight will fall to women. That is a very heavy burden, she adds.

For now, the Young Women Entrepreneurs hope they can help each other carry the load.Wounded Houthi fighters in Yemen's rebel-held Sana'a are being evacuated Monday before peace talks set to begin this month in Sweden.

The Houthi were taken in ambulances to the airport to board a U.N.-chartered flight.

The Saudi-led coalition said it had approved the evacuation of the wounded fighters.

The evacuation had been a stumbling block in peace talks in September.

The fighting in Yemen has brought the country to the brink of famine.

Intensified fighting around Yemen's port city of Hodeida has cut port operations by nearly half.

About 70 percent of the country's food and other essential goods are delivered through the port.

After more than three years of warfare, the U.N. calls Yemen the worst humanitarian crisis in the world.Two musicians are traveling through the volatile English-speaking regions of Cameroon in hopes of ending a war that has killed more than 1,000 people. Their only "weapons" are a guitar and voices they use to spread messages of peace in song.

The musicians are 24-year-old Emmanuel Bilashi and 31-year-old Linford Ci, singing in the northwest village of Santa.

In one of their songs, the two are calling on armed gangs to drop their weapons and stop their attacks, kidnappings, killings, and destruction of public buildings. They ask both the government of Cameroon and the armed gangs to allow children to have their basic right to education.

"We are tired of war, violence. Schools are locked up, our brothers and sisters are being killed every day and things are not moving. Let them drop the weapons. Violence is not what we need but peace and love," Bilashi said.

In another song, the two say the best gift of life is love. Ci said even the fighters involved in the conflict pinning government forces and separatist rebels in Cameroons English-speaking regions against each other need love.

"They are having consciences and they are still having that soft spot in their hearts for the love of the nation. We as young people, we want a future. We have a part to play like nation builders. We are telling ourselves that we do not want to be the leaders of tomorrow, but we want to be the leaders of today. If there is no platform of peace, then that dream of ours, or that reality of today is having no place," Ci said.

Bilashi said Ci and he teamed up four months ago, after violence in the northwest town of Bamenda killed one of Ci's family members of two of Bilashi's.

Among the two dozen people who came to listen to the duo in Santa was 27-year-old Rigobert Kima, who said he recently fled from a camp of armed fighters near the northwest village of Bafut.

"I opted to come. The thing was not easy. We just managed to escape from the bushes, Kima said.

Unrest in the northwest and southwest regions began in 2016, when teachers and lawyers staged protests against what they said was a marginalization of English speakers in the mostly French-speaking nation.

The government says that since then, over 1,200 civilians, soldiers and armed separatists have been killed.

So far, Bilashi and Ci have performed in Santa, Bamenda, Akum, Nkwen Bambili and Bambui.

Many say the duo's initiative is courageous. Within the past two months, two missionaries  Charles Trumann Wesco from the United States and Cosmas Ondari from Kenya  were killed in the restive regions where they were preaching peace.

Mancho Ivo, a resident of Akum whose poultry business has been shut down by the fighting, listened to the duo and liked what he heard.

He said he prays their message can heal Cameroon, adding "we thank them for their courage, which may as well be the beginning of the solution to our problems."Al-Shabab and pro-Islamic State militants in Somalia are engaged in an economic war, and it is the country's business sector that is getting cut down in the crossfire.

Somali businessmen and analysts say the rival Islamist groups are targeting companies to an unprecedented degree with demands for so-called taxes.

Al-Shabab has already strong-armed business owners for years to finance its war against the Somali government and African peacekeepers who protect it. Now, al-Shabab is stepping up its demands, and pro-IS groups are apparently trying to fund its own activities by copying Shabab's tactics of pay up-or-pay the consequences.

The groups are leaving a trail of bodies as a warning to those who don't cooperate. Somali intelligence sources say IS militants killed telecommunications official Abdullahi Ali Omar in Bosaso on August 7 for not paying up, and that they're also behind the more recent shootings of at least eight employees of Hormuud, the country's largest telecommunications company.

Meanwhile, al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the shooting of businessman Nur Khayre Gutale on October 29 in Mogadishu, although it said Gutale was targeted because he was involved in the selection of Somalia's parliament in early 2017.

Abdirahman Mohamed Turyare, former director of Somalia's National Intelligence Agency, says the extortion demands are strangling merchants who have managed to function, even thrive, in Somalia's perpetual state of war and chaos.

"Businesses are paying three taxes today, al-Shabab taxes, Daesh [IS] taxes and the normal government taxes," he said."The businessman who is paying these three taxes, who started his business with a small amount, is going to be forced to flee to neighboring countries because the business won't pay for itself."

But not paying hardly qualifies as an option, says Hussein Sheikh Ali, who directs the Hiraal Institute, a Mogadishu-based research firm focused on security in the Horn of Africa.

"If they don't pay, they will be targeted, as well as their children and wealth," he said."The punishment is death.They have to choose between the two."

'You have to contribute'

Al-Shabab is the dominant militant group in Somalia and the main threat to the business community. The Hiraal Institute outlined al-Shabab's funding system in a report issued in July.

Over the past decade, the group's finance department has "become the most ruthless collection entity in Somalia," the Institute said.

The report and Somali businessmen say al-Shabab agents collect "taxes" on many types of commerce in Somalia, including the sales of farm produce and livestock, and also demand money for general support and for zakat, or alms for the poor.

Al-Shabab's greatest revenue comes from its system of taxing vehicles that are transporting goods through Shabab-controlled territory.

"There isn't a single vehicle that does not pay al-Shabab this fee, regardless of the goods it's carrying," said "Shabelow," one of several businessmen who spoke to VOA's Somali service about their experiences with al-Shabab on condition they remain anonymous for safety reasons.

Shabelow, a fuel supplier based in Mogadishu, says al-Shabab charges him $2.50 for every barrel of fuel he transports.He says the money is usually collected in the city's Bakara market, a remarkable fact given that the Somali capital is ostensibly in the hands of the government and the African Union force, known as AMISOM.

Many other fees are gathered at Shabab-run checkpoints on roads in the interior.

Shabelow says al-Shabab tells traders that if they don't pay the fees, their trucks will be "blown off" the road.That's exactly what happened during a June incident in Somalia's Bakool region, when the jihadist group destroyed 11 vehicles and killed six civilians for failing to pay up.

Al-Shabab sometimes seeks out more random payments from businesses, schools, hospitals and individuals, categorizing the payments as infaaq, or support for the group."Mumin," another businessman, says the demands can be unrealistic.

"They might ask someone to pay $100,000 even though his business is not worth that amount," said Mumin."Eventually the person either accepts to pay the money asked or faces imprisonment."Mumin said one businessman who defied al-Shabab was chained to a tree by his arms and legs and left there for hours.

"They say, 'You are a wealthy man, there is work going on, you have to contribute,'" Mumin said."No businessman or business owner escapes from this, no one."

How much does the group collect using these tactics?No one knows for sure, but Sheikh-Ali (formerly known as Hussein Moallim Moahmud) says the amount has been increasing annually."We estimated that in 2017, the best year they have had, they collected $27 million," he said.

The U.N. Monitoring Group on Somalia issued a report in November that said al-Shabab draws roughly $10 million a year from just one checkpoint in Somalia's southern Bay region.

The monitors' report, which addresses general security challenges in the beleaguered Horn of Africa country, also said al-Shabab "generates more than enough revenue to sustain its insurgency," and functions as a shadow government with "a centralized taxation system applied consistently across southern and central Somalia."

"Al-Shabab operates a state within a state, where ... in terms of taxation it operates more effectively than the federal government," said Matt Bryden, the former chief of the U.N. Monitoring Group, now director of Sahan Research, a Nairobi-based research firm.

"And I think this is simply what any serious group aspiring to power in Somalia would do, amass a base of revenue domestically and begin to compete for legitimacy with other authorities."

IS Returns to Urban Area

The Islamic State faction in Somalia is much smaller than al-Shabab, having formed only in 2015 when a pack of militants splintered off from Shabab during a dispute over whether the group should switch its main allegiance from al-Qaida to IS leader Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi.

Until recently, IS was active only in Somalia's semi-autonomous Puntland region.But the recent wave of attacks suggests they are expanding their reach.

Somali intelligence sources say IS set off a bomb outside Mogadishu's Salama bank on September 14 after the bank defied the group's extortion demand.Three days later, gunmen in Mogadishu attacked a senior bank official, Abdulkadir Haji Wasa, firing bullets into his head.Wasa survived and is now being treated in Turkey, where he is said to be in critical condition.

Security officials say they believe after three years in the remote mountainous region of Puntland, the IS militants found that if they want to survive they have to return to the cities and raise funds. Targeting the businesses is a part of the drive to impose themselves in urban areas, they say.

The Somali federal government and various regional authorities, which have struggled to stop terrorist attacks by al-Shabab and IS, appear largely unable to protect the business community from the extortion demands.

Former intelligence director Turyare says that while in office, he met with businessmen facing militant demands for money, but was only able to offer "advice."

Sheikh-Ali notes that militants have been known to attack targets in their own business places, or even mosques and universities.

It leaves the typical business owner very few options, he says.

"They have to choose to defend themselves, or stay in a place where they can be defended, or accept to pay al-Shabab," said Mohamud."The punishment is death, and you do not know where [the militants] are coming from, and where they are going to make the kill."Jews around the world are lighting candles, spinning dreidels, and eating traditional potato pancakes as they welcome Hanukkah.

The eight-day long Festival of Lights marks the re-dedication of the temple of Jerusalem in the second century BC, after Jewish guerillas defeated the armies of tyrannical Syrian and Greek rulers.

Every night over the next eight days, another candle is lit on the menorah - symbolizing the miracle of a tiny bit of oil keeping the candles burning in the temple for eight days.

President Donald Trump released a message, saying he and first lady Melania send their "warmest greetings to our Jewish brothers and sisters."

"Over the coming days, may the warming glow of each candle on the menorah help fill the homes and hearts with love and happiness," he said.

The president mentioned the October Pittsburgh synagogue shooting as an example of the violence and hatred many Jews still face.

A public menorah lighting will be held at the Tree of Life synagogue Sunday night as another remembrance of the 11 victims.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier lit a 10-meter high menorah in front of Berlin's Brandenburg Gate -- Europe's largest menorah.

For the first time in many years, Jews in Kazakhstan were allowed to light a large menorah outside the Pyramid of Peace and Reconciliation in the capital, Astana.

And in Israel, the birthplace of Hanukkah, artist Yaron Bob created menorahs from scraps of metal from rockets and shrapnel Palestinian militants fired from Gaza.

Bob's workshop features a poster with the biblical quote: "And they shall beat their swords into plowshares."Embattled British Prime Minister Theresa May has just eight days before the House of Commons votes on a contentious deal that would have Britain locked in a customs union with the European Union for several years while it negotiates a more permanent, but vaguely defined, free-trade settlement with its largest trading partner.

In the temporary customs union, Britain would be unable to influence the rules, regulations and product standards it would have to observe. It would be unable to sign free trade deals with non-EU countries. And with Northern Ireland treated differently than other parts of Britain in order to avoid customs and immigration checks on the border with the Republic of Ireland, the provinces pro-British Unionists fear their ties with London will be diminished.

As the December 11 vote draws closer, Mays prospects of convincing the House of Commons the exit Withdrawal Agreement she concluded is the best deal for Britain look increasingly forlorn. She heads a minority government that for its survival relies on the support of a quirky, socially conservative Northern Ireland Party, the DUP, which is threatening to withdraw support.

Each of her several appearances before the House of Commons since the agreement was signed with EU leaders last month has encountered levels of hostility seldom seen toward a sitting prime minister, with the greatest fury coming from her own Conservative Party lawmakers.



Bad outcome

Mondays appearance was not helped by the leak of a letter from her chief and most trusted negotiator, Oliver Robbins, warning that her temporary customs arrangement with the EU, which is planned to kick in on March 29, would be a bad outcome for Britain. He cautioned the deal could lead to regulatory checks having to be introduced between Northern Ireland and the rest of Britain.

He added that Britain might be trapped in the transition deal indefinitely with no legal way out of the customs union if free trade negotiations subsequently fail.

When even the architect of this agreement appears to be saying this is a bad deal, colleagues must seriously question how they can vote for this, said former Conservative minister Priti Patel.

On Monday, May was facing uproar in the House of Commons over her refusal to publish the full legal advice offered by the governments lawyers on her deal. Only a summary has been released, but the suspicion is the advice included considerable reservations.

Conspiracies and intrigues are in the air, with rebel Conservative lawmakers debating their Brexit tactics and strategy. The one thing uniting them, whether they are Euro-skeptic or pro-EU, is opposition to Mays deal.

One group is preparing for the consequences of a no-deal vote by fashioning an alternative that would see Britain being half-in and half-out of the EU by adopting the Norway approach and joining the European Free Trade Association, a looser form of economic and political affiliation. Current EFTA members are Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland.

Straight off the cliff

May adamantly rejected Sunday the idea of EFTA membership as an alternative if her deal fails to get sufficient parliamentary backing. That prompted former Conservative minister Nick Boles to warn May the deal is bound to be voted down, and the only other option she seems to be entertaining is to do a Thelma and Louise and drive straight off the cliff into the sunset.

EFTA membership is a non-runner for hardline Brexiters among conservatives, as it would require Britain to accept once again freedom of movement that allows EU and EFTA citizens to live and work in any member country.

But hardline Conservative Brexiters dont fear falling off the cliff. Writing in the Sunday Telegraph, David Davis, one of Mays former Brexit ministers, the first of three who resigned in the past two years, said if it happens, it isnt the doomsday scenario some are trying to paint, as it would allow Britain to take back control and set ourselves on the path to reclaiming independence.

British businesses that rely on integrated EU-wide supply chains for parts and supplies dont agree. Neither does the Bank of England, which last week warned a disorderly no-deal Brexit would plunge Britains economy into an economic contraction, with a possible sharp rise in unemployment, house prices plummeting 30 percent, and the economy shrinking by around 8 percent in a year.

Second vote?

Meanwhile, Labor Party leaders are debating whether they should push for a second Brexit referendum or try to trigger an election by offering a motion of no confidence in Mays government, if the House of Commons withholds approval of her deal.

May is gambling the risk of a general election being triggered and of Labor winning under the leadership of the most far-left leader it has had since the 1930s will persuade conservative rebels and the DUP to hold their noses and approve her deal on December 11. But the DUPs leader said Mays deal is a greater threat to Northern Ireland.

May's aides say if she loses next weeks vote by a small margin, she could return to Brussels and ask for changes and seek a second vote on the deal.Russias recent attack on Ukrainian naval vessels will likely top the agenda at a NATO meeting this week as the alliance searches for a robust response in the wake of the Kremlins latest act of aggression on Europes borders.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is scheduled to join other foreign ministers for the two-day meeting in Brussels starting Tuesday, where American demands for more military spending from NATO allies will also be discussed.

Kyiv has warned the likelihood of an all-out war with its neighbor is dangerously high after Russia fired on its vessels last week in the Azov Sea and detained several Ukrainian naval personnel. Moscow has blamed Ukraine for what it called a provocation.

Attending a ceremony to mark the acquisition of new military hardware Saturday, Ukraines president urged allies to step forward.

WATCH: Ukraine asks for NATO response

This is an enormous threat and together, with our allies, we are searching for an appropriate response to it, President Petro Poroshenko said.

The Ukrainian leader wants NATO to send warships to the Azov Sea, which is supposed to be shared between Moscow and Kyiv under a 2003 agreement. Ukraine says Russian warships have blockaded the Kerch Strait off Crimea  the territory it forcibly annexed in 2014  effectively cutting off Ukrainian Black Sea ports.

NATO is under pressure to offer a robust response at Tuesdays foreign ministers summit. But speaking last week, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg gave no indication that the alliance is prepared to risk a naval confrontation with Russia.

We call on Russia to ensure unhindered access to Ukrainian ports and allow freedom of navigation for Ukraine in the sea of Azov and Kerch Strait, Stoltenberg told reporters.

Following the incident in the Azov Sea, U.S. President Donald Trump cancelled a planned meeting with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin at the G20 summit.

Writing on Twitter last week, Trump wrote, The European Union, for many years, has taken advantage of us on trade, and then they dont live up to their military commitment through NATO. Things must change fast!

Along with military spending, NATO foreign ministers will also discuss Ukraine and Georgias ambitions to join the alliance. Georgias new President-elect Salome Zurabishvili has already staked out a tough line on Russia, describing it as an "unpredictable occupying power"  and vowing to push forward her countrys bid to join NATO.

We can ask and we've been doing that - membership and that is our direction without any alternative - but on that road we can get much more concrete steps and I intend to be more demanding partner for Europeans as well as with our NATO partners, Zurabishvili told the Reuters news agency.

The West faces a balancing act in dealing with an increasingly unpredictable Kremlin, says Russia analyst Nicholas Redman of the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

Its partly about exploiting some of the capacities that Western states have in order to defend themselves. That will require new approaches. Its also I think about deciding where the points of potential dialogue should come.

Foreign ministers are also due to discuss Operation Resolute Support in Afghanistan, in which about 16,000 personnel from 39 NATO member states and partner countries are involved in training and assisting Afghan forces.Qatar says it is quitting the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) from January 2019 to focus on exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Speaking to reporters Monday in Doha, the countrys minister of state for energy affairs, Saad Sherida al-Kaabi, made the surprise announcement, saying that the world's largest exporter of LNG plans to increase its exports from 77 million tons of gas per year to 110 million tons.

"In light of such efforts and plans, and in our pursuit to strengthen Qatar's position as a reliable and trustworthy energy supplier across the globe, we had to take steps to review Qatar's role and contributions on the international energy scene,'' al-Kaabi said.

Qatar also wants to raise its oil production from 4.8 million barrels a day to 6.5 million barrels, he said.

The tiny, energy-rich Arab nation is locked in a diplomatic dispute with Saudi Arabia, which dominates OPEC, but al-Kaabi said that the move to leave the organization was not driven by politics.

Qatar, which has been a member of OPEC for 57 years, will still attend the organizations meeting on Thursday and Friday of this week, and will abide by its commitments, he said.

The Vienna-based oil cartel did not make any immediate comment.

Meanwhile, oil prices soared on Monday after Russia and Saudi Arabia renewed their agreement to cap output, while the United States and China agreed not to impose any new tariffs during a 90-day period during which the two sides are to negotiate a detailed agreement.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday he and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had agreed to extend the agreement to limit production as prices drop on global markets.

An existing deal between OPEC and non-member states on oil production quotas expires this year.U.S. President Donald Trump called Monday for his former long-time personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, to be imprisoned for years after Cohen pleaded guilty to a variety of offenses and turned against Trump in the criminal investigation of Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election.

Cohens defense attorneys have asked that the New York lawyer not serve any prison time after Cohen last week admitted to lying to Congress that Trump had ended his real estate pursuits in Moscow during the early stages of the 2016 contest for the Republican presidential nomination, while actually continuing to brief Trump on a possible deal that eventually fell through. Cohen said he lied to support Trumps public claims that he was not involved in any Russia deal at the time.

Earlier, Cohen, Trumps lawyer for 12 years, had pleaded guilty to violating laws that involved his taxi business, his financial dealings with at least three banks and his secretive efforts to influence the election just before the vote by paying $280,000 in hush money to two women who claimed to have had affairs with Trump in years past. Cohen faces several years in prison but has yet to be sentenced.

You mean he can do all of the TERRIBLE, unrelated to Trump, things having to do with fraud, big loans, Taxis, etc., and not serve a long prison term? Trump said on Twitter. He makes up stories to get a GREAT & ALREADY reduced deal for himself, and get his wife and father-in-law...off Scott Free. He lied for this outcome and should, in my opinion, serve a full and complete sentence.

After Cohen pleaded guilty last week to lying to Congress, Trump called his former attorney "a weak person." Later, Trump defended his continued work on business ventures during the campaign as "very legal & very cool."



In another Monday tweet, Trump praised Roger Stone, one of his long-time political operatives, for saying last week, I will never testify against Trump. Trump said Stone was essentially stating that he will not be forced by a rogue and out of control prosecutor to make up lies and stories about Trump. Nice to know that some people still have guts!

One Trump critic, George Conway, the husband of White House adviser Kellyanne Conway, suggested that the U.S. leader was obstructing justice by urging Stone to continue his resistance to Mueller. George Conway posted the U.S. Criminal Code citation for witness tampering.

Trump, as he often has, attacked special counsel Robert Mueller, whom he described as a much different man than people think. He said that Mueller and his out of control band of Angry Democrats, dont want the truth, they only want lies. The truth is very bad for their mission!

Muellers investigators interviewed Cohen for 70 hours about his long legal representation of Trump and there is no indication when the probe will end.

Aside from Cohen, Mueller has now secured guilty pleas or convictions for various criminal offenses of Trumps former campaign chairman, his former deputy campaign manager, his first national security adviser and a foreign policy adviser, among other lesser known figures.

Trump recently answered written questions from Muellers investigators about allegations that he colluded with Russia during the campaign, which the president has repeatedly denied. It is not known whether Mueller will seek to have Trump answer more questions, or perhaps subpoena him for a face-to-face interview.U.S. President Donald Trump is seeking Pakistan's cooperation in bringing the Taliban to the table for negotiating peace in Afghanistan.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said he received a letter Monday from Trump to inform him that U.S. special representative for Afghanistan reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, is traveling to Pakistan this week for further discussions.

"He [Trump] wants Pakistan to play its part and use its influence to bring the Taliban to talks. We have a very prime position in it [Afghan peace], and we will certainly make an effort. I have long advocated for it [peace talks]," Khan said in remarks aired on state-run television.

The prime minister noted his critics used to mock and call him "Taliban Khan" for opposing military operations and advocating a political solution to the Afghan war.

"Thankfully, today the whole world wants Pakistan to bring them [Afghans] together [for peace talks]. ... This is what our role should be and we can do it," Khan said. He reiterated that Pakistan would "benefit the most" if peace is restored to Afghanistan.

"In the letter, the President recognizes that Pakistan has the ability to deny the Taliban sanctuary on its territory. The letter also makes clear that Pakistan's assistance with the Afghan peace process is fundamental to building an enduring U.S.-Pakistan partnership," said a spokesperson for Trump's National Security Council.

Earlier, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Mohammad Faisal separately issued a formal statement to share details of the letter.

Faisal said Trump acknowledged that the war had cost both the United States and Pakistan. The American leader went on to emphasize the two countries "should explore opportunities to work together and renew partnership," the spokesman added.

When asked about the letter Monday, U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said, "We are looking for every responsible nation to support peace in the subcontinent. And we'll cross this war in Afghanistan that's gone on now it's approaching 40 years  40 years is enough.

"It's time for everyone to get on board, support the United Nations, support [Indian Prime Minister Narendra] President Modi, support [Afghan] President [Ashraf] Ghani and all those who are trying to maintain peace and make for a better world ... and we'll do our best to protect the Afghan people as the diplomats work to end the war," Mattis added.

The rare contact between the United States and Pakistan at the highest level comes as Islamabad's traditionally tumultuous relationship with the United States has deteriorated over allegations the Taliban continues to use sanctuaries on Pakistani soil for attacks inside Afghanistan.

Trump reiterated those allegations in a television interview and subsequent tweets last month, justifying his suspension of military assistance to Pakistan. The allegations prompted Khan to also take to Twitter and denounce the U.S. president for questioning Pakistan's counterterrorism efforts. The Pakistani leader insisted his country is being made "a scapegoat" for U.S. military "failures" in Afghanistan.

The 17-year Afghan war has intensified in recent months, with the Taliban inflicting heavy casualties on U.S.-backed Afghan security forces and bringing more territory under insurgent control. The U.S. military has lost more than 2,400 service members and spent nearly a trillion dollars since the war started in 2001.

The U.S. special envoy for Afghanistan peace, Khalilzad, has recently engaged the Taliban in direct talks to try to initiate Afghan peace negotiations.

The Taliban says it is discussing the withdrawal of NATO and U.S. forces from Afghanistan in talks with Washington.

Analysts increasingly believe Trump is considering pulling U.S. forces out of Afghanistan. Khalilzad last week said in a television interview that the president is in a "hurry" for peace in Afghanistan to end the suffering of the people in the strife-torn country.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg acknowledged Monday while speaking to reporters in Brussels that allied nations are paying "a high cost of staying in Afghanistan" in terms of financial and human losses. "But we have to compare the cost of staying with the cost of leaving," Stoltenberg noted.Asia stocks rallied Monday on the news that the United States and China, the worlds two largest economies, would not impose any new tariffs during a 90-day grace period, during which the two sides are to negotiate a detailed agreement.

In early trading Monday Chinas main market index (the Shanghai Composite) jumped 2.7 percent and the Hang Seng in Hong Kong added 2.8 percent.

Japan's Nikkei 225 index climbed 1.4 percent.

The U.S. pre market indexes - Dow and S&P futures contracts - were 1.9 percent and 1.8 percent higher respectively, indicating a strong start on Wall Street once the New York Stock Exchange opens at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Standard time.

The U.S. and China had agreed to a small truce in their escalating trade war after a meeting between presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping following the G-20 summit.

Trump, speaking to reporters on Air Force One after the plane departed Argentina, said his agreement made over dinner with Xi, will go down as one of the largest deals ever made.  And it'll have an incredibly positive impact on farming, meaning agriculture, industrial products, computers -- every type of product."

"China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40 percent," Trump said on Twitter late Sunday.

Monday China's ministry of foreign affairs said the Chinese and U.S. presidents had agreed to work towards removing all tariffs.

Trump agreed that he will leave the tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese products at the 10 percent rate, and not raise it to 25 percent, for now, as he has threatened to do come January 1, according to a White House statement.

China will agree to purchase a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial, amount of agricultural, energy, industrial and other product from the United States to reduce the trade imbalance between our two countries, said White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders. China has agreed to start purchasing agricultural product from our farmers immediately.

Trump and Xi also agreed to immediately begin negotiations on structural changes with respect to forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and cyber theft, services and agriculture, according to the White House statement. Both parties agree that they will endeavor to have this transaction completed within the next 90 days. If at the end of this period of time, the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the 10 percent tariffs will be raised to 25 percent.

WATCH: Steve Herman's video report

At the dinner, Xi also agreed to designate fentanyl as a controlled substance, meaning that people selling the powerful opioid to the United States will be subject to Chinas maximum penalty under the law.

The White House is calling the Chinese presidents decision a wonderful humanitarian gesture.A threat from a group affiliated with Islamic State was responsible for the closing of the U.S. Embassy in Democratic Republic of Congo for more than a week, a U.S. official tells VOA.

The U.S. official, speaking Monday on the condition of anonymity, was unable to clarify whether the terror group was comprised of Congolese nationals or members from outside of the country.

The State Department declined to comment on the threat. The department has only described the embassy closing in Kinshasa as due to a terror threat, without elaborating.

The details come on the eve before the embassy reopens to the public.

The Embassy in Kinshasa has been working closely with the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo to address a terrorist threat against U.S. government facilities in Kinshasa, a State Department official said.

Embassy Kinshasa determined it appropriate to re-open to the public and return to normal staffing, he added.

The embassys website said all consular services Tuesday will be by appointment only."

The embassy in the capital, Kinshasa, has been closed to the public since November 26. U.S. citizens were warned to "keep a low profile."

DRC is less than one month away from a long-anticipated presidential election.

President Joseph Kabila has held onto power long after his term in office officially expired in 2016.U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo reaffirmed the strength of U.S.-Israel alliance and reiterated Americas resolve in confronting Irans threats through maximum pressure during a dinner with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday.

Pompeo arrived in Brussels late Monday for the NATO foreign ministerial meeting, where he had dinner after lighting a Hanukah candle with Netanyahu.

The meeting came days after the top U.S. diplomat slammed Tehran's testing of a medium-range ballistic missile.

Washington also urged European leaders Monday to enact sanctions on Iran after U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Tehran tested a medium range ballistic missile Saturday.

"We would like to see the European Union move sanctions that target Iran's missile program," Washington's special envoy to Iran, Brian Hook, told reporters traveling with Pompeo to the NATO meeting in Brussels Monday.

The United States has imposed sanctions on a number of individuals and entities who are supporting Irans missile program. We think those sanctions can be effective if more nations can also join us in that effort, Hook added.

On Saturday, Pompeo criticized Iran over what he described as Tehran's test-firing of a medium-range ballistic missile capable of carrying multiple warheads and has a range that allows it to strike parts of Europe and anywhere in the Middle East.

Iran responded by saying its tests were for defensive purposes.

"How exactly is the world's leading sponsor of terrorism entitled to a claim of defense? In fact, Iran's security concerns are entirely self-generated. Was a plot to bomb Paris defensive? Was the assassination attempt in Denmark defensive? Is smuggling missiles to the Houthis in Yemen to attack Saudi Arabia and the Emirates defensive," the U.S. special representative for Iran said.

At the semi-annual meeting of NATO ministers, State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert says Pompeo will renew the U.S. call that allies "shoulder a fair share of the burden of responsibility to protect against common threats."

"This means living up to the pledge that all allies made in 2014 and reaffirmed at the 2018 Brussels Summit to spend 2 percent of their gross domestic product on defense by 2024 and to invest 20 percent of that in major equipment," Nauert said in a statement Monday.

Esha Sarai contributed to this report.The U.N. refugee agency estimates more than 3 million Venezuelans have left their homeland because of political and economic turmoil. Some Venezuelans have boarded flights to Europe, others have set out on foot to neighboring countries like Colombia and Brazil. Still others have boarded buses and headed to more distant countries in South America, like Peru and Chile. VOA News reporter Jorge Agobian tracked two Venezuelans who headed south on a bus with little more than hope for a better future.Presidential spokesperson George Charamba says President Emmerson Mnangagwa is not obliged to release a report expected to be submitted by the Kgalema Motlanthe Commission of Inquiry into the killing of at least six people in Harare in August this year.

Charamba told the state-controlled Herald newspaper that Mnangagwa, who commissioned the commission of inquiry, is protected by the law not to make the report public.

In an interview with the daily newspaper, Charamba said, There is nothing at law that compels the President to release the report to the public or not to release it to the public. The discretion is his. Where he has a bit of a limit is in respect of how the Commission conducts its hearings in terms of the law.

He further said Mnangagwa was even required by the law to conduct the hearings in camera but decided to make them public in the interest of openness and transparency.

Charamba also dismissed reports that Mnangagwa has received the details report containing the commissions findings and recommendations.

There are certain things that dont make sense in terms of the way this matter has been handled and reported. Firstly, neither the executive summary nor the main report has been released. In other words, neither document is in the public domain, yet reading reports that are in the media one gets the sense that the executive summary or the main report has been released.

His remarks were echoed by the Commissions spokesperson John Masuku who told VOA Studio 7 that they are busy compiling a detailed report on their findings and recommendations.

Many agitated Zimbabweans, especially on social media, are claiming that Mnangagwa is now doctoring the final report after allegedly submitting it to the president.

The Commission initially promised last week that Mnangagwa will get the document on Saturday but later said they have up to December 19th to submit it.Netflix might be releasing 47 stand-up specials in one day next year, but Comedy Central has a whole lot of stand-up specials in the works, too. The network just announced that it will air four new hour-long specials every Friday at 11 p.m. in January, which its also calling Stand-up Month. First up is Ron Funches: Giggle Fit on January 4, followed by James Davis: Live From the Town on January 11, then Chris Distefano: Size 38 Waist on January 18, then Roy Wood Jr.: No One Loves You on January 25.

In addition to the hour-long specials, the network will premiere its new series Comedy Central Stand-up Featuring on YouTube, Facebook Watch, Twitter, and Instagram on January 8. The series will feature short sets filmed at Littlefield in Brooklyn from up-and-coming comedians, including Tom Thakkar, Petey DeAbreu, Dina Hashem, Natasha Vaynblat, Ian Lara, Clare OKane, Stavros Halkias, Hanna Dickinson, Joyelle Nicole Johnson, Yedoye Travis, Marie Faustin, Ryan Beck, Martin Urbano, and Chris Cotton.

The network also announced the next batch of comedians who will star in their own half-hour specials for the third season of Comedy Central Stand-up Presents, which will tape at the Civic Theatre in New Orleans in January and February. Heres the complete lineup, which includes Sara Schaefer, Joe Kwaczala, and Daily Show correspondents Dulce Sloan and Jaboukie Young-White:

David Gborie is a Los Angeles-based stand-up comic, actor and writer originally from Denver, CO. Gbories recent credits include Comedy Centrals New Negroes, truTVs Those Who Cant, and MTVs Acting Out. He was selected as a New Face at the 2016 Just For Laughs Festival and one of Comedy Centrals Comics to Watch at the 2015 New York Comedy Festival. Gborie has also appeared at The Bridgetown Comedy Festival, SF Indie Fest, Denvers Too Much Funstival and the SF Punchline, among others. He has previously written for F-Comedy (Fusions digital platform) and currently co-hosts the podcast All Fantasy Everything alongside Ian Karmel which is available on iTunes.





Vanessa Gonzalez is originally from Texas and was voted Best Stand-up Comic in the Austin Chronicle before her recent move to Los Angeles. She was a breakout as one of the New Faces of the 2017 Just For Laughs festival in Montreal and subsequently created and starred in a web series called Ms. Vanessa for Mas Mejor, a digital platform which is part of Lorne Michaels company Broadway Video. She was recently featured on TruTVs Laff Mobbs Laff Tracks and has a short special airing on HBO Latino next year. She has performed at a variety of comedy festivals including SXSW, High Plains, Moontower, and Big Sky Comedy Festival and has toured the country with her critically acclaimed one-woman sketch shows.





Charles Gould can be seen in the first season Search Party for TBS as well as the indie feature The Big Sick. After appearing as a New Face at the prestigious Montreal Just for Laughs Comedy Festival in 2017, he made his network stand-up debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live! Gould was also named as one of Comedy Centrals Comics to Watch in 2015. Gould is the creator of the critically acclaimed digital series Charles, By The Way as well as Tips For A Happier, Healthier You for Comedy Central Digital. Hes currently a Creative Consultant for Will Smiths Westbrook.





Joe Kwaczala is a comedian, writer, and actor based in Los Angeles. He has written for The Onion News Network, ClickHole, and MAD Magazine, and in 2017, he was chosen to be one of Comedy Centrals Up Next Comics to Watch. Recently, Joe released 31 original comedy videos in one day, a feat that received praise from publications like Vulture and The AV Club.





Will Miles is a LA-based comedian originally from Chicago. He is currently writing for the upcoming IFC variety series Shermans Showcase. He was most recently an executive story editor on Comedy Centrals upcoming series South Side and will be playing a recurring role on the show. Previously, Miles was a writer on truTVs The Chris Gethard Show. He can be seen in Hulus Difficult People, Go90s Thanksgiving, HBOs Crashing and Viceland and the upcoming Comedy Central stand-up series, The New Negroes. He was recently named one of Brooklyn Magazines 50 Funniest Comedians and Comedy Centrals 10 Comics To Watch. Miles also cohosts the podcast, Hopefully We Dont Break Up. His debut comedy album Good Year is currently out.





Sara Schaefer is a critically acclaimed stand-up comedian, writer, and producer currently based in Los Angeles. She was the co-host of MTVs late night show Nikki & Sara Live. Schaefer has appeared on @Midnight, John Olivers New York Stand Up Show, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, and Inside Amy Schumer. She won two Emmy awards for her work at Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, and has written for Ed Helms Comedy Central special The Fake News with Ted Nelms, Problematic with Moshe Kasher, Not Safe with Nikki Glaser and Who Wants to Be A Millionaire. Her digital series Woman Online launched on Seriously.TV in February 2017. Recently, Schaefer stand-up show Little White Box debuted to a sold-out run at the 2017 Edinburgh Fringe Festival.





Dulce Sloan is currently a Correspondent on Comedy Centrals late-night franchise, The Daily Show with Trevor. In 2017, Sloan was named one of Rolling Stones 10 Comedians You Need to Know and one of TimeOut LAs Comedians to Watch. She was also the 2016 NBC Stand-Up Showcase Winner, a Montreal Just For Laughs New Face and a Comedian to Watch on The Steve Harvey Show. In addition to being cast in Foxs Type A and NBCs Dumb Prince, she has been on MTVs Acting Out, Comedy Centrals @midnight, TBS Conan, and truTVs Comedy Knockout. Shes also made multiple appearances as a correspondent on E! News Daily.





Tom Thakkar is a New York-based stand-up comic, actor and co-host of Nikki Glasers daytime Comedy Central Radio show You Up with Nikki Glaser on Sirius Radio. In the past year, Thakkar made his late night debut on CONAN, reached the finals of the 2017 NBC Stand-Up for Diversity Competition, performed as 1 of 8 comics at the 2018 Fox Night of Comedy showcase in Los Angeles, headlined JFL 42 in Toronto, co-headlined a show at the 2018 New York Comedy Festival and recently started performing at the venerable Comedy Cellar in NYC. Thakkar has a hilarious comedy podcast called Stand By Your Band with fellow comic Tommy McNamara and they have also been doing a live version at Carolines on Broadway, and most recently, as part of the 2018 New York Comedy Festival. In 2015, he was named a New Face by the Just for Laughs comedy festival in Montreal. Thakkar has been featured on Doug Loves Movies, VICE, NPR and The Todd Glass Show.





Allen Strickland Williams is a stand-up comedian and writer in Los Angeles. He has performed stand up on Conan twice and can be seen in Cooking On High on Netflix and Corporate on Comedy Central. Other TV credits include Comedy Dynamics: Coming to the Stage on Hulu and Flophouse on Viceland. He was a writer on the Trump vs. Bernie special on Fusion and was recently listed as one of the 10 Best Rising Stars in LA Comedy by The Culture Trip. Williams appeared at the 2016 New York Comedy Festival as one of Comedy Centrals Comics to Watch, a showcase for the hottest up-and-coming comedians in the nation.





Jaboukie Young-White is currently a Correspondent on Comedy Centrals late-night franchise, The Daily Show with Trevor. Young-White (@jaboukie) is a comedian and filmmaker from Chicago. He appeared in the Sony feature film Rough Night directed by Lucia Aniello and the Netflix feature film Set It Up directed by Claire Scanlon. Most recently, Young-White was named one of Varietys 2018 10 Comics to Watch, performed at the Comics to Watch showcase at the 2018 Just For Laughs festival in Montreal, as well as performed at Comedy Centrals Up Next showcase at Clusterfest. He has performed stand-up on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on two occasions and can be seen on the upcoming season of HBOs series Crashing. Previously, Young-White was a staff writer on Netflixs American Vandal and just finished as a story editor on season three of Netflixs hit animated series Big Mouth.



Gaia Girace and Margherita Mazzucco in My Brilliant Friend. Photo: Courtesy of HBO

Italy is a 19th-century invention unified by an official language that, until the 20th century, most Italians didnt speak. Elena Ferrantes My Brilliant Friend, the first of the four volumes of her Neopolitan Novels, takes place on the outskirts of Naples, in a neighborhood isolated by dialect as well as by poverty. Ferrante avoids transcribing the speech patterns of the street, writing out everything in proper Italian and inserting a clause to specify whether the speaker is using Neapolitan dialect or not. This saves the reader from having to struggle through laboriously rendered, potentially offensive slang a la Huckleberry Finn, and it also makes it impossible to forget how far the narrator, Elena Greco, has traveled, from her days as a postwar urchin to the heights of literary respectability.

In the HBO adaptation of My Brilliant Friend, director Saverio Costanzo addresses the problem in a completely different fashion: by casting local kids, filming in Neapolitan, and providing Italian subtitles that viewers can fool themselves into thinking they could really do without. Elenas trajectory is the story of a woman changing her speech, and with it the trammels of class, family, brutality, and loyalty. Costanzo sets the parameters in the opening scene, set in the present, when an iPhone buzzes on Elenas bedside table. Sleepy and startled, she answers in educated Italian, with a hyper-proper Pronto? At the other end of the line is a young voice from her old life; the son of her childhood friend informs her in thick Neapolitan that Lila has disappeared: Mamma nze trove cchiu. She understands, but her peers wouldnt, not without subtitles.

There is a difference between Italian spoken with a Naples accent  a cadence rich in diphthongs, gaping vowels, and mushy sh sounds  and actual Neapolitan, which is impenetrable to an outsider from, say, even a few dozen miles away. Every Italian knows a few, mockable phrases: guaglio for dude, vabbuo instead of va bene (all right) or boh, che ne saccio in place of non lo so (I dont know). Movies and television, which have to balance regional authenticity and mass appeal, have created a kind of Italo-neapolitan hybrid, colorful but comprehensible. In the 1980s, the comedian Massimo Troisi helped make his native dialect safe for national consumption, but he was careful to stay within the lines of intelligibility. The dialect continues to be a source of merriment and pride: Last month, when the Naples-born TV personality Stefano De Martino taught his son a few useful phrases, the 30-second final exam became a viral sensation.

Costanzo, though, is after something much more textured and profound than authenticity or local color: He uses gradations of dialect to delineate class, reveal the characters psychology, and propel the plot. After that middle-of-the-night phone call, the story winds back to the 1950s, when the only neighborhood presences who speak true Italian are teachers and librarians. But among the proletariat, too, even the toughest forms of dialect bend to circumstance. In the first episode, a poor carpenter confronts Stefano Carracci, the son of the gangster who evicted him, and the scene plays out in tight, bitter Neapolitan:

By episode four, Stefano, now an affluent young shopkeeper, invites the neighbors over for New Years Eve and offers a toast in Italian that belies the meagerness of his education. He is conciliatory, generous, and brimming with ambition. He is the new Italian man.

The degree of dialect denotes more than social class; it also hints at the speakers loyalties. A local crime boss swears by family and speaks the local lingo. An aspiring scholar speaks Italian, has thoughts on national politics, and cant wait to escape the grasping, provincial South. After World War II, Italy had to form itself anew, stitching together disparate cultures into a rickety idea of nationhood. Compulsory military service helped. So did television and the schools. But it was the burgeoning economy that did the most to tie together the fortunes of citizens who might otherwise have had nothing to do with each other. Stefano Carracci understands that theres money to be made and customers to be wooed beyond the few blocks he calls home, and he is ready to speak their language. Still, the Italian project took time and in the 1950s, it was still far from complete.

Many Italian viewers of My Brilliant Friend will recognize the interplay of nationhood and language from a scene in Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusas classic novel The Leopard, set in Sicily in 1860 but written in the 1950s, just when the teenage Elena is struggling with her Latin declensions. In The Leopard, an aging prince who is contemplating the birth of modern Italy pays a visit to the Bourbon king in Naples. Though the nobleman addresses his sovereign in immaculate Italian, Francis II greets him in chewy Neapolitan. The moment is both comic and pointed: The monarch comes from a Spanish dynasty and rules a major chunk of the Mediterranean, but hes no global figure, or even a national one. Hes a local kid, as provincial in his worldview as the fruit-seller outside his palace.

In Ferrantes world, a similar set of tensions  between the block and the nation, between family and education, the gun and the mind  play out in the subtleties of speech. When Lilas parents decide to yank the girl out of school and put her to work, her older brother Rino (already a dropout) defends her right to an education  in blistering, inimitable dialect. The irony is deliberate: He uses Neapolitan to try to push her out of the familys Neapolitan-speaking orbit.

Even as a young girl, Elena learns to code switch. She slips in and out of the neighborhoods argot, especially when shes talking to Lila. As long as the topic is confined to parents, boys, or menstruation, Neapolitan is the language of choice. But when they compare notes on books, they slip into Italian. Costanzo has a careful ear, and he doesnt miss a chance to make it clear that, for the older Elena, the one who answers the phone in the middle of the night and whose memories give this epic its structure and frame, Neapolitan is the language of the imprisoning neighborhood; Italian is the language of ideas, the imagination, and social mobility  in a word, the language of freedom.

There is a deeper, unstated irony here. The show, co-produced by an American company for a global audience, is being released into an Italy that seems to have forgotten its past. Today, a right-wing, immigrant-phobic, anti-EU government with Putinesque sympathies is pulling the nation away from a polyglot Europe and asserting an Italy First agenda. As the country turns inward again, it has little to show for decades of foreign language instruction. Italians theoretically study English in school, but their command of the language is among the worst in Europe. (Americans have nothing to feel superior about on that front, however: We barely even bother to master a foreign language in school.)

Thats tragic. English is to Italians today what Italian was to Neapolitans in the 1950s: the key to a more cosmopolitan future. And yet many of those who speak it best flee to find their futures abroad, leaving their monolingual homeland ever more insular. Language preservationists, and even UNESCO, rush to the rescue of fading dialects; fluency in Neapolitan remains a badge of honor. Thats wonderful, and its what made it possible to shoot My Brilliant Friend in the first place. But the older Elena who answers her phone in the opening scene lives in a different country, one that should be looking beyond its borders. Instead, its barricading itself ever more firmly into a large-scale version of Ferrantes fictional neighborhood and doubling down on a language that few people beyond its borders speak or understand. Early on in My Brilliant Friend, Elena and Lila cement their friendship by raptly reading to each other from a translation of Little Women. Today, Italian children craving a world beyond the confines of their lives really ought to be reading such a book aloud to each other in the original.Photo: Mark Mainz/Starz Entertainment, LLC

Spoilers below for Outlander season four.

Forget long-lost lovers reuniting in a print shop, bring on long-lost father-and-son figures reuniting in a smithy! Throughout Outlanders third season, everyone knew Jamie and Claire would eventually find their way back to each other. But in season fours Savages, which aired Sunday night, the show gave us a reunion we could only have hoped for: Murtagh is back, people! While Jamie and Young Ian are in town looking for farmers to settle on Frasers Ridge, they require the services of the local blacksmith to fix a broken horse bit  and that blacksmith is none other than Murtagh Fitzgibbons Fraser.

Its been awhile since weve seen Murtagh (since season threes All Debts Paid to be exact), so even the most diligent Outlander fan might be hazy on what his deal is, besides making Jamie cry out of overwhelming joy. Not to worry! In honor of this grizzly highlanders triumphant return to the world of Outlander, heres a refresher on all things Murtagh. Its best to read while listening to Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.

Its great to see Murtagh again, but can you remind me of his backstory?

With pleasure. Murtagh Fraser is Jamies godfather. He swore that hed spend his entire life protecting Jamie. Mind you, that oath was not simply given because Murtagh is Jamies father Brians second cousin  its because Murtagh was very much in love with Jamies mother, Ellen. In season one, Murtagh, ever the curmudgeon, revealed his softer side to Claire when he told her about how he attempted to win Ellen MacKenzies hand in marriage by killing a wild boar at a Gathering ceremony; she chose to marry Brian instead. Brokenhearted, he made bracelets out of the boars tusks and presented them to her as a wedding gift. Years later, when Jamie began to be manipulated by his MacKenzie uncles Colum and Dougal, Murtagh was the only one who truly had his back. In short, Murtagh and Claire are the two people who love Jamie the most in this world. Im getting misty-eyed just thinking about it! Oh, and hes one of the few people Jamie and Claire have told about all this time-travel business, so you know they trust him.

How the heck did Murtagh end up in North Carolina?

The last we laid eyes on this now-silver fox was when Jamie found him on the brink of death in Ardsmuir Prison, years after the battle of Culloden. While in prison, Jamie cut a deal with Lord John Grey and ensured that Murtagh got the medicine and food he needed. When Ardsmuir Prison was shut down, Murtagh was among the prisoners sent over to the New World for indentured servitude. Jamie was sent to Helwater (where some major drama  ahem  William, goes down), and was forced once more to say goodbye to his godfather. It turns out that many of the men from Ardsmuir Prison were sent to North Carolina. What a world!

Wait, wasnt there something important about Murtagh showing up at Ardsmuir Prison?

Indeed! Jamies finding Murtagh at the prison was a huge departure from the Outlander novels. In the books, Murtagh dies at Culloden. Once he was revealed to be alive on the show and shipped off to the New World, it was assumed hed pop up again eventually. Some fans believe the show will use Murtagh to pick up the storyline for another book character, Duncan Innes, but honestly, anything that happens with Murtagh from here on out is completely new! Isnt that exciting and also terrifying?!

So whats Murtagh up to now?

After hugging it out with Jamie and making us all weep into our tartans, Murtagh explains that after years of indentured servitude under the local blacksmith, that dude died and left his business to Murtagh. But hes also involved in some Top Secret Meetings. Remember the regulators that Governor Tryon told Jamie about? The men refusing to pay their taxes and talking of rebellion? Yeah, well, Murtagh is basically their leader. Jamie wants to keep things above board on Frasers Ridge, so he tells his godfather that theres no way he can join him in his fight  but he wont stop him either. Itll probably become a much bigger issue at some point, but for now, Murtagh comes to visit the Frasers at their new home, much to the delight of his BFF Claire. Aw, you guys, remember when they traveled the Scottish countryside performing Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy in search of Jamie and bonded for life? Those were the days!Six people have been charged in Limestone County and a seventh suspect is sought for conspiring to take advantage of a mentally unstable inmate. The suspects are accused of burglarizing her home, emptying her bank account and using her vehicles and credit card information over a several-month long period in which she was incarcerated.

Limestone County correctional officers made investigators aware on November 26 that a mentally unstable inmate was being taken advantage of. The inmate told an investigator that her house had been burglarized and that her cars and all of her money were stolen.

While visiting the victim's home on Quinn Road, investigators found Derrick Hicks, Bethany West and another female. Investigators say Hicks was staying at the home and is accused of damaging the victims vehicles and re-working one of them to start with a screwdriver, since he did not have the key.

Hicks's girlfriend, Monica Gray, was a fellow inmate of the victim and according to an investigator who reviewed telephone conversations between her and Hicks, she initiated the plan to burglarize the home. Officials say she told Hicks where the inmate's home is and how to carry out the crimes.

A phone call between Gray and Antonio Nelson showed conspiracy to obtain methamphetamine from a cartel, investigators say. The exact amount of money stolen from the victim's bank accounts has not been determined yet, but it's believed to be in the tens of thousands of dollars. Jewelry and cash, along with other valuable items, were taken from the home.

Arrest warrants were obtained for the suspects Christopher Aday, Vincent Scales and Brandy Johnson. Aday and Scales were taken into custody, but Johnson is still sought.

Johnson was previously arrested in Decatur on November 30 for shoplifting at a Walmart on Spring Avenue SW and being in possession of meth, cocaine and drug paraphernalia. She provided a false identity, Brandy Hargrove, to law enforcement.

She was charged in this incident with possession of a controlled substance, i.e. meth, possession of controlled substance, i.e. cocaine, possession of paraphernalia, giving a false name to law enforcement officers and theft in the fourth degree. She was booked into the Morgan County Jail, and her bond for these charges was set at $2,900.

An investigation is ongoing, and officials say additional arrests are expected to be made. The sheriff's office asks that anyone with information about Johnson's location call 256-232-0111.

---

The suspects' charges and bonds are listed below:

* Monica Gray, 37, of Athens - 2 counts of Theft 1st Degree, Burglary 3rd Degree and Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime, Trafficking. She was held at the Limestone County Jail prior to receiving these charges, and the bond for these has not been set yet.

* Derrick Hicks, 33, of Athens - 2 counts of Theft 1st Degree, Burglary 3rd Degree and 2 counts of Illegal Possession of a Credit/Debit Card. He is in the Limestone County Jail on a $15,500 bond.

* Bethany West, 33, of Athens - Burglary 3rd Degree and 3 counts of Illegal Possession of a Credit/Debit Card. She was released from the Limestone County Jail on a $7,000 bond.

* Christopher Aday, 38, of Lester - Burglary 3rd Degree. He was released from the Limestone County Jail on a $2,500 bond.

* Vincent Scales, 37, of Athens - Burglary 3rd Degree. He was released from the Limestone County Jail on a $2,500 bond.

* Antonio Nelson, 28, of Athens - Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime, Trafficking. He is in the Limestone County Jail on a $12,500 bond.

* Brandy Johnson, 27, of Elkmont - She is wanted by law enforcement in connection to the burglary.Alabama State Troopers are investigating a crash that killed a man Sunday night in Lawrence County near Hillsboro.

Law Enforcement said the one-car crash happened around 7:15 p.m. on County Road 438, when Larry Donnell Stover, 62, of Hillsboro, ran off the road, overturned and hit a tree. Stover was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials said he was driving a 2002 Toyota 4Runner.

State Troopers could not release any more information at this time.5 Dec-May. The Jewish Museum of Rome and the Museo di Scultura Antica Giovanni Barracco host Ludwig Pollak: Archeologo e mercante darte (Praga 1868  Auschwitz 1943), an exhibition of antiques and archive material relating to the esteemed archaeologist and art dealer Ludwig Pollak. The exhibition marks the 150th anniversary of Pollak's birth, in Prague in 1868, as well as the 80th anniversary of Italy's racial laws, promulgated by the fascist regime to enforce racial discrimination, mainly against Italy's Jews. Pollak is best remembered for important archaeological finds, including his extraordinary discovery in 1906 of the missing Laocoon arm which he donated to the Vatican. However Pollak's celebrated career came to a tragic end on 16 October 1943 when he and his family were among the 1,023 Jews rounded up in Rome's Ghetto district and deported to Auschwitz concentration camp, where he perished. For exhibition details see Museo Barracco website.We're all suckers for an interesting true crime story, whether the perp employs an unusual method ("He used gummi bears, but only the green ones") or there's a shocking reveal ("It was Ted Cruz all along!"). But every once in a while, we get a crime so bizarre that it reads less like real life and more like a soap opera written by a drunken artificial intelligence working from rejected True Detective scripts. For example ...

5 A Woman Catfished Her Parents And Boyfriend Into Murder

Jenelle Potter never had a lot of friends. She was lanky, had an annoying voice, was riddled with chronic health problems, and though she was well into her 30s, she still lived at home with her overprotective parents. In her free time, she did what many lonely people do: stare at the internet, waiting for something good to happen. It wasn't a good life. So when pharmacy clerk Tracy Greenwell took pity and introduced Potter to her circle of friends, things seemed to take a turn for the better. Until Potter decided that two of them had to die.

Despite being seen by most people as an awkward wallflower, Potter quickly bombarded her new friends with Gossip Girl levels of drama. She first started dating Jamie Curd, Greenwell's cousin, but rumors began flying that she was also secretly eyeing a different cousin, Billy Payne.Even if the tariff war recedes, the broader economic and political environment has shifted against giving China the benefit of the doubt as it develops, and there is no turning back the clock, said Claire Reade, a former U.S. trade negotiator now with Arnold & Porter, via email. The major global issues created by Chinas size combined with its distortive industrial policies are now out in the open.NASA has been forced to rely on Russia for transportation to the space station since the shuttle retired in 2011. While there are several systems capable of flying cargo and supplies to the orbiting laboratory, the Soyuz is the only vehicle able to fly people there. After the failure, officials in the United States and Russia said they had a sense of urgency to get it back up and running.Shortly before leaving the service, he married his 19-year-old sweetheart, Barbara Pierce. Bush graduated from Yale University, and the couple moved to Texas to work in the oil business. Bush turned his attention to politics in the 1960s. He was elected to the first of two terms in Congress in 1967. He would go on to serve as ambassador to the United Nations and China, head of the CIA and chairman of the Republican National Committee before being elected to two terms as Ronald Reagans vice president.D.C. Public Schools did not answer questions about why the requirements are not being met, but it said in a statement that physical education is critical to preparing our students to lead healthy and active lives, which is why we developed a robust program that ensures they have the skills they need to live a healthy lifestyle. We teach every second-grader to ride a bike; our students learn about locally grown produce and how to cook healthy meals at home; and we offer swimming lessons at schools throughout the city.Ferebee is married and has a son in high school. He said he would move his family to the District, where he has relatives, next year. He said his son will attend the neighborhood high school or participate in the school lottery system, which places students in charter and traditional public schools.The school had dropped the Stratford name in 1979. Not because of its association with Lee  we werent having that debate then  but rather because the countys population was changing. Officials decided to use Stratfords building to create a new school by merging two existing progressive programs  the Woodlawn Program and the Hoffman-Boston Program. Thus was born the highly regarded and beloved H-B Woodlawn, also known as Hippie High.On Friday, Obando-Rodriguez, a five-year veteran of Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services, was charged with one count of second-degree assault and three counts of fourth-degree sexual offense in connection with the incident, according to the police statement. He was released on bond.Losing the Amazon bid to Northern Virginia should be a confirmation of an ongoing problem, that [Montgomery] has lost its competitive edge in the region, Fuller said. It was still in the national finals, so its not a total defeat, but the county needs to understand what its competitive advantages are in the region and in the global economy. . . . It was a test, and they didnt win.Former governor and Prince Georges executive Parris Glendening (D) said he had a lengthy meeting with Alsobrooks in 2016, when she was planning to run for the top job. He expected questions about how to win the 2018 election. Instead, he remembers her saying, I think I can win this. But tell me what I can do to prepare.He has picked people for several key positions. State Sen. Richard S. Madaleno Jr. (D-Montgomery), who ran for governor this year, will be Elrichs budget director. Robin Riley will head the recreation department, where she serves as a division chief. Elrich announced he is keeping eight department heads from the Leggett administration  police, fire and corrections, as well as the heads of transportation, finance, liquor control, consumer protection and intergovernmental relations  and intends to keep all regional service center directors.Todays Headlines

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By signing up you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy PolicyBaltimore police said Jacquelyn Smith, 52, of Harford County and her family were driving in the 1000 block of Valley Street about 12:30 a.m. when they saw a woman who appeared to be carrying a baby or something wrapped to look like a baby. The woman also held a cardboard sign saying, Please help me feed my baby.Doherty was arrested in Arlington on March 17. On his computer, Eastman said, authorities found emails to Burkman as well as searches on how to use a fuel filter as a silencer. In his home they found the rifle used in the attack. She said the weapon had been mailed there.In 1949, Nobel laureate Linus Pauling traced sickle cell disease to an aberrant form of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. It helped usher in the modern era of medicine, focused on using the biological roots of illness to unravel disease  and yet sickle cell anemia, which is most common in people of African descent, also has become a flash point in medicine at the intersection of race and health care. Doctors often disbelieve patients reports of the pain caused by the disease, according to one study. President Richard M. Nixon issued a statement that it was a sad and shameful fact that the causes of this disease have been largely neglected throughout our history. There was only a single approved drug for the disease until last year.Engagement ring found A once-anonymous English couple that lost an engagement ring down a Times Square utility grate is thanking the New York Police Department for finding it. John Drennan and Daniella Anthony tweeted Sunday how happy they were that officers found the ring, which they thought had been lost forever. The NYPD had been looking for them since Saturday, after getting the ring out of the grate. He proposed to her in Central Park and she says it slipped off her finger and fell into the grate late Friday night.For Sen. Kennedy, this was never about the people of Louisiana. This was about focusing the spotlight on himself, the governors statement says. Now that this is behind us, my hope is that he will make it a priority to work together with me and the entire congressional delegation to get things done for the hardworking families of this state.Labour will try to topple May if Brexit deal is rejected: Britain's opposition Labour Party said it will call a no-confidence vote if Parliament rejects Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal on Dec. 11. May is battling to persuade British lawmakers to back the deal her government and the European Union reached last month. Labour Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer told Sky News that it is "inevitable" that Labour will bring a motion of no-confidence in the government if Parliament rejects the deal. If the government lost a no-confidence vote, it would have two weeks to overturn the result with a new vote by lawmakers. If that failed, a national election would be held.The call comes as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is to meet European officials in Brussels this week and after the U.S. and others condemned an Iranian missile launch over the weekend.Bushies internalized all that. On Meet the Press panels, I refer to myself as a Portman Republican these days, after Ohios Sen. Rob Portman, himself a Bush protege. Bushies of the 41 vintage are still everywhere, though not often seen on cable. It is hard to imagine Bush on the debate stages of 2016, or those that loom in 2020. It was a different era. And those who could not believe the country did not reelect the sagacious and gentle man in 1992 wonder about the national road not taken. We were blessed to have had him in public service for all those years, and we would be much better off as a nation had we re-upped for four more years. How much would be different today.Trump has, with Congress, funded the military generously and put it in good hands. But he has shown contempt for the civil service and its leadership, and morale in many agencies is drooping. Almost halfway through his term, barely half of key government positions are filled  378 of 704, according to a tracker maintained jointly by The Post and the Partnership for Public Service. Trump disparages the deep state and makes nominations  his personal physician to run the 377,000-employee Department of Veterans Affairs, for example  that mock the mission.The demonstrators were gilets jaunes  yellow vests, named after the reflective safety gear they wear  who are repeatedly, and incorrectly, described as having emerged from nowhere. It is true that their origins are untraditional: In the past, political parties in France, as in the rest of Europe, emerged from old-fashioned, real-life institutions  trade unions produced the Social Democrats, for example, and the church in many countries produced the Christian Democratic center-right. People identified with other people whom they met in clubs, at meetings, in cafes. By contrast, the members of this new social movement, if it can correctly be described as a movement, did not meet in real-life institutions. Instead, they found one another on the Internet, through social media and online petitions that can create new groups and identities from one day to the next.But, again, it could have been much worse  and with Trump often has been. In some ways, the miracle of Buenos Aires is not what Trump said or did but that he could function at all, given how crippled by scandal his presidency has become. Just in the past week, we have learned that conspiracy-monger Jerome Corsi notified Trump friend Roger Stone of the Russians theft of Hillary Clinton campaign emails long before they were released and that the next day Stone talked to Trump. We have also learned that Trump was working on a deal to build a tower in Moscow even as he was winning the Republican presidential nomination in 2016. The evidence of collusion grows stronger  and so does the evidence of obstruction of justice. Trump on Nov. 28 dangled the possibility of a pardon before his former campaign manager, convicted felon Paul Manafort.The correspondence was signed by all nine justices and comes at a time when the high court is still recovering from the bitter Senate battle that led to the confirmation of the newest justice, Brett M. Kavanaugh. It follows an unusual public exchange last month between the chief justice and President Trump, in which Roberts defended the independence of the judiciary in response to criticism from the president.The double jeopardy clause of the Constitutions Fifth Amendment prohibits more than one prosecution or punishment for the same offense. But the Supreme Court since the 1850s has made an exception, allowing successive prosecutions and punishments if one is brought by state prosecutors and the other by the federal government. (One early case from that time involved counterfeiting; another was prosecution of someone harboring a fugitive slave.)I happen to believe that there is climate change, and I think humans contribute to it in a substantial way, and therefore I look with openness to all the ideas that might be able to address that, he said. The idea of doing nothing, in my view, is a recipe for disaster . . . its going to require presidential leadership.For Sen. Kennedy, this was never about the people of Louisiana, Edwards wrote. This was about focusing the spotlight on himself. Now that this is behind us, my hope is that he will make it a priority to work together with me and the entire congressional delegation to get things done for the hard working families of this state.You mean he can do all of the TERRIBLE, unrelated to Trump, things having to do with fraud, big loans, Taxis, etc., and not serve a long prison term? Trump said in morning tweets. He makes up stories to get a GREAT & ALREADY reduced deal for himself. . . . He lied for this outcome and should, in my opinion, serve a full and complete sentence.But Ressa and Rapplers lawyers say the charges against them hinge on the news agency being classified as a dealer in securities. The accusations relate to a 2015 bond sale that resulted in about $3 million in gains for Rappler. The government says Rappler failed to pay tax on that sale but has not specified how much it owes.The Trump administration is eager for the peace talks to move forward and the conflict to end after 17 years. Khalilzad has met with Taliban leaders and a variety of regional officials over the past several months, but there has been no breakthrough. The insurgents continue to insist that foreign forces must leave the country under any deal and that they will negotiate only with U.S. officials.Sharing the stage with her on Monday was Winnie Mac, 22, who recalled what it was like hearing Obama speak nine years ago. The two things that really made an impact on me were she said that being smart was the coolest thing in the world, and also how important it was to reach back and help others, she said.The steep decline of his approval ratings in recent months has taken even some of his political allies by surprise. His approval numbers are currently as low as 26 percent, according to one November poll. His administration has sought to portray the yellow vests as political extremists from the far right and the far left, but polls suggest 72 percent of French voters support the movement, although that support is felt more strongly on the extremes and among Frances disaffected center-left.Before being notified that his phone had been hacked, Abdulaziz was in regular contact with Khashoggi, with whom he had struck up a friendship. Khashoggi, a contributor to The Washington Posts Global Opinions section and a critic of the kingdom, was killed in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul on Oct. 2 by members of a 15-man team from Saudi Arabia.CEU created a program at Bard College in New York, and it was certified by state authorities. But the Hungarian government did not acknowledge the arrangement, and officials signaled last month that they never would because the university had not complied with all aspects of the law. They have declined to spell out publicly exactly how.Waterfords Minister of State for Training, Skills, Innovation, Research and Development John Halligan TD has announced that three projects in the South East have been offered 2.8 million in funding as part of the second round of the Regional Enterprise Development Fund, an open national competitive call to support regional projects, delivered for the Government through Enterprise Ireland.

Successful South East projects announced on Monday include Incupharm DAC Waterford (799,212), Crystal Valley Tech CLG (219,919) and National Design Innovation Hub DAC Carlow/Kilkenny (1,843,320).

Incupcharm DAC will provide 11 laboratories for life sciences start-ups and for life science companies to conduct research in the South East. Incupharm will be connected to WorkLAB in the IDA Industrial Estate in Waterford, providing access to a range of business supports and technical supports from Waterford Institute of Technology, based across the road, to help maximise the prospects of success for these companies.

Incupharm in Waterford will provide bespoke laboratory space to support life sciences start-ups; in association with IT Carlow, a new Design Innovation Hub will be developed in Kilkenny for companies in all sectors who want to conceptualise, innovate and build new products and services; while the Crystal Valley tech cluster for the region will be supported to grow its activities. These projects together represent an investment by Government of over 2.8 million for the South East region under this second call, Minister Halligan said.

WIT Pharmaceutical and Molecular Biotechnology Research Centre (PMBRC) manager Dr Niall O'Reilly said: On behalf of the Incupharm team, I am delighted to welcome the news that funding has been offered for a life science incubator in the South East. The region has a strong pharmaceutical and medical device industry, with over 8,000 directly employed in the sector. The incubator will therefore play to regional strengths and will be connected to the wider business, research and innovation supports of the region and beyond. It is our vision to transform the South East into a life science innovation hub, particularly for indigenous start-up companies."

Elaine Fennelly and Larry Breen, directors of the Crystal Valley Technology, welcomed the news of being offered funding from Enterprise Irelands Regional Enterprise Development Fund. We have great companies, great people and huge international success stories here in the South East. This funding will help Crystal Valley Tech achieve its goal of making the South East the location of choice for ICT (computing) companies and ICT professionals."

Twenty one successful applicants representing all regions of the country have secured just over 29m for their projects in the second call for proposals under the competitive fund. Initially allocated 60m for two rounds of funding, the fund will now operate on a rolling basis as part of Project Ireland 2040.

The winners were selected through a rigorous evaluation process based on criteria which included impacts and value for money, collaboration and participation, viability and sustainability, building regional strengths, and significance for innovation.

Details of the Regional Enterprise Development Fund are on Enterprise Ireland.Theres a weakness in the way we think about the government and its effects on the economy that economists and politicians usually dont see. We draw macro conclusions from micro data because we forget the need for what accountants call consolidation.

The problem arises because we keep forgetting that the responsibility for governing Australia is divided between the federal government and eight state and territory governments  not to mention any amount of local councils.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

Yet most of us focus only on the federal governments budget when we want to know whats happening at the macro (national or economy-wide) level, and on our own state governments budget when we when want to know whats happening at the micro (individual component) level.

Because we think  correctly  that responsibility for managing the macro economy rests with the federal government, and also that the feds budget is one of their main instruments for influencing the economy, we study the federal budget in great detail and forget that the eight state budgets also have big economic effects.Comedian Pete Davidson has described how relentless bullying in the wake of his high-profile split from Ariana Grande has left him feeling suicidal.

In an emotional statement posted to Instagram, the Saturday Night Live star said he had been getting bullied online and in public for nine months.

Davidson and Grande in August. Credit:Invision

"I've kept my mouth shut. Never mentioned any names, never said a word about anyone or anything," he wrote.Doctors who perform unnecessary physical examinations on patients could be engaging in sexual assault and risk facing criminal charges under tougher rules announced by the Medical Board of Australia.

In its revised Sexual Boundaries in the Doctor-Patient Relationship guidelines, which take effect on December 12, the health regulator has, for the first time, given explicit parameters for physical examinations and social media use.

The Medical Board of Australia has released guidelines on sexual boundaries.

It said "unwarranted physical examinations" or "inappropriate touching" may constitute sexual assault and health authorities would ensure reports of "criminal behaviour" reached the police.

"This includes conducting or allowing others, such as students, to conduct examinations on anaesthetised patients, when the patient has not given explicit consent for the examination," it reads.I have a confession: I recently became so enraged by some trivial domestic matter that I kicked a huge dent in the kitchen bin. Yes, it was in front of the children. No, I can't remember what provoked such displeasure. I can't even recall if my husband was the cause, though the poor bin won't forget in a hurry.

Take heart, losing it in front of the kids will not harm their health.

Every time I notice it, I wonder whether I have traumatised my kids. It can't have been healthy for them to see me  their usually calm and controlled mother  unleash an explosion of rage.

Except, thankfully, it turns out it can be. New research has suggested that it's better to express negative emotions around our children in a healthy way than to bottle them up - and this includes allowing them to see "healthy conflict".

"Children pick up on suppression, but it's something a lot of parents think is a good thing to do," says Sara Waters, assistant professor in the Department of Human Development on the Washington State University Vancouver campus.Australias leading foreign affairs think tank, the Lowy Institute, has been the subject of at least two cyber attacks from China, in an apparent effort to view its online dealings with the federal government and visiting foreign dignitaries.

The revelations come as the Australian National University is accused of being woefully unprepared for a Chinese cyber attack earlier in the year, amid differing accounts around the seriousness of that breach.

'Watering hole' attacks on think tanks and universities target places where influential people interact. Credit:Glenn Hunt

While the ANU maintains no research, intellectual property or personally sensitive information was compromised, senior national security figures have said the universitys systems were so poor it wouldnt know if any data had been stolen.

The attacks on Lowy appear to mirror a Chinese campaign against think tanks in the United States, in which hackers not only sought to view correspondence but access the information of those visiting its website.Perths love affair with Bali appears to be at an all time high, with the number of flights to the holiday island increasing by 450 per cent in the past decade.

Perth Airport statistics obtained by WAtoday have revealed how Perth peoples flying habits have changed in the last 10 years.

Statistics have revealed how Perth people's flight habits have changed in the past decade

Flights from Perth to Bali have increased during that time from two per day to nine per day, with a flight leaving the city, on average, once every 2.5 hours - transporting 1,200 people to the island a day.

The surge in those chasing a cheap and sunny holiday makes Bali Perths most popular direct international destination, and the citys third most frequently travelled destination overall.Gehan Rajapakse, CEO, Amana Takaful Life, addressing the gathering

Amana Takaful PLC (ATL) unveiled its latest branch in Welimada recently, bringing its Insurance expertise to the residents of the town as part of its expansion to widen its geographic footprint across the island. The ceremonial inauguration was graced by Mr. Gehan Rajapakse, CEO ATL Life,together with ATL Regional Managers, Branch Managers and its staff as well as prominent businessmen, professionals and members of the financial services fraternity.

Commenting on the opening of the new branch, Mr. Rajapakse, stated, Our success so far can be attributed to the wide ranging solutions Takaful offers to Sri Lankans and the superior service we provide to our patrons. It gives us great honor to introduce Amana Takaful to the people of Welimada, and we hope that our new branch will continue to fulfil the diverse insurance needs of this community.

On this its 20th year, ATL has achieved ongoing success, by embracing a culture of change and progression in a fast-paced, competitive environment. ATL currently operates in 37 branches, and is set to expand further - to better serve customers across the country. ATL continuously reaches out to customers from all segments of society and offers innovative and state-of-the-art insurance products that are convenient, affordable and reliable. As part of its commitment to remain Open to all, ATL reaches out to all communities through a multi-ethnic team across its network.The co-founder of Hans Cafe who was caught up in hell when the Thai food chain was taken to Federal Court over underpaying staff is reinventing the popular Perth eatery with a catchy new name, Hans PHOever.

Tram Hoang Han, who founded the cafe chain with ex-husband Ian Han, had charges laid against the business for not paying wages and taxes and ended up in $6 million of personal debt.

Tram Hoang Han trials a new concept cafe, Han's PHOever with the first opened in Midland.

In 2017 the Federal Court of Australia found the business hadnt paid $30,000 in wages to about 27 staff and had failed to keep timesheet records of hours worked by employees.

The charges were laid after the founding pair separated amid allegations Ms Han had been the victim of ongoing domestic violence.The recent release of the Federal Parliamentary Committee report on adoption is trying to conflate two important issues for Australia's vulnerable children: the historically low rate of adoptions and the rising number of children in out-of-home care nationwide.



The number of Australian children being adopted is falling dramatically. Credit:Belinda Pratten

The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs recommended a national easing of adoption laws to provide more stable and permanent homes for children with a history of being in out-of-home care.

A dissenting report opposing the recommendations noted the risk of a throwback to the Stolen Generation, because of the disproportionate number of Indigenous children in out-of-home care.

The narrow terms of reference of the committee  confined to adoption as an option for young numbers in out-of-home care, prevented any useful contribution towards the real target, how to reduce the number of children coming into out-of-home care.Malcolm Turnbull has told Prime Minister Scott Morrison to call a poll for early March to prevent NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian's re-election bid being destroyed by the chaos in Canberra.

In his second public intervention in less than 24 hours, the former prime minister challenged the government's timetable for an election in May, and did not deny reports he told a NSW MP that Mr Morrison is only interested "in keeping his arse in C1" - a reference to the prime ministerial limousine.

Scott Morrison and Malcolm Turnbull outside Parliament House earlier this year. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

"There are a lot of people in NSW, a lot of NSW Liberals, who believe it would be in the party's interests for the federal government to go to an election before the NSW government's set election date of March 23 so that Gladys Berejiklian, who is leading an outstanding government of real and considerable achievement, can go to the polls and [be] judged on her record rather than being hit by the brand damage that arose from the very destructive, pointless, shameful leadership change in Canberra in August," Mr Turnbull told Radio National on Monday morning.

"Plainly the Prime Minister's determination is to stay in government as long as he possibly can."Prime Minister Scott Morrison has challenged Opposition Leader Bill Shorten to accept the case for swift changes to encryption laws to increase the ability of security agencies to monitor the messages of terrorists and criminals.

The government wants the stronger powers passed by Parliament this week, but communications companies are warning against the draft law, saying it goes too far to allow the surveillance of consumer messages on WhatsApp, Facebook and other services.

Scott Morrison and Bill Shorten. Credit:AAP

If Labor had difficulties in coming to the mark on that, well, I think that indicates why theyre a risk, Mr Morrison said.

These are things you just need to act on if youre serious about national security.A peace deal orchestrated by Prime Minister Scott Morrison to save one of the government's most controversial MPs has set off a firestorm inside the Liberal Party, as Malcolm Turnbull warns he won't stay silent while critics try to define his legacy.

Having secured the future of conservative backbencher Craig Kelly, Mr Morrison is now under pressure to step in and spare Jim Molan from being thrown out of Parliament next year after the retired major-general was relegated to an unwinnable position on his party's Senate ticket.

"I believe I will see the Prime Minister later this week to discuss this issue," Senator Molan said. "All options are available to me - except for leaving the Liberal Party."

In a surprise move on Monday night, Mr Morrison called a snap party room meeting at Parliament House to unveil new leadership rules to make it tougher to remove sitting prime ministers. Australia's coup culture has delivered five prime ministers in the last five years, made the nation a laughing stock on the world stage and torn the Coalition apart over recent months. MPs agreed to a new system that would only permit a change of leader if two thirds of MPs wanted it.The way German Chancellor Angela Merkel flipped through her notes before meeting Scott Morrison said everything about the Prime Ministers troubles on the world stage.

It also hinted at his problems at home.

Merkel needed a background note on Morrison in her hands when the two met at the G20 summit on the weekend. Rightly or wrongly, the question on her mind seemed obvious: whos this again?

German Chancellor Angela Merkel checking her notes during a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Scott Morrison at the G20 summit. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen / Fairfax Media

That telling moment, captured by Sydney Morning Herald and The Age photographer Alex Ellinghausen, came one day after Morrison went into a meeting with US President Donald Trump to face a different question: what happened to Malcolm?While he has previously spoken of the need for better screening of candidates for the religious life, his comments suggesting that priests who cannot keep their vows of celibacy should leave are some of his clearest to date.

Vatican City: Men with deep-rooted homosexual tendencies should not be admitted to the Catholic clergy, and it would be better for priests who are actively gay to leave rather than lead a double life, Pope Francis says.

Pope Francis delivers the Angelus noon prayer from his studio window overlooking St Peter's Square at the Vatican on Sunday. Credit:AP

Francis made the comments in a new booklet due out on Monday December 3. The 120-page book The strength of vocation. Consecrated life today is fruit of a four-hour long interview between the pope and Spanish priest Fernando Prado.

In it, Francis says homosexuality in the Church "is something that worries me". It is due to be published this week in several languages. An advance copy of the Italian version was made available to Reuters.

"The question of homosexuality is a very serious one," he said, adding that those entrusted with training men to be priests must be certain that candidates are "humanly and emotionally mature" before they can be ordained.

Pope Francis kisses a baby at the Vatican on Saturday. Credit:AP

This also applied to women who wanted to enter female religious communities to become nuns. In the Catholic Church, priests, nuns and monks all take vows of celibacy.Sinharaja is Sri Lankas flagship for conservation of rainforests and it is the only National Wilderness Heritage area that receives the highest level of legal protection under Sri Lankan conservation laws. Despite its significance, Sinharaja forest is increasingly threatened by potential developments and calamities that occur naturally, triggered by anthropogenic activities.



It is in this regard that Environmental Foundation Ltd. (EFL) is publishing a book on the Review of the Southern Border of Sinharaja; Contemporary needs against conservation. The book will be launched on 7 December 2018 at the British Council Library from 6.30pm onwards. This book elaborates a study conducted to assess the present status of Sinharaja, the gaps in conservation and current practices with emphasis on utilising Sustainable Forest Management as a means of addressing the underlying threats posed to the southern border of Sinharaja.



EFL is a pioneer public interest litigation organisation dedicated to environmental conservation in Sri Lanka. Established in 1981, EFL has legally supported environmental protection for over 35 years, with more than 250 court cases with significant victories such as halting Sampur coal power plant, the privatisation of Galle Face Green and Eppawala phosphate mine. With a mission to conserve and protect Sri Lankas natural environment, EFL has become an organisation reputed for key breakthroughs in safeguarding Sri Lankas natural environments, influencing policy and legislature and fostering a sense of environmental stewardship among the citizens of Sri Lanka. Throughout EFLs illustrious history, EFL has published several leading Environmental Law publications such asthe Judges & Environmental Law: A handbook for the Sri Lankan judiciary, Your Environmental Rights and Responsibilities: A handbook for Sri Lanka and many others.

With a mission to conserve and protect Sri Lankas natural environment, EFL has become an organisation reputed for key breakthroughs in safeguarding Sri Lankas natural environments, influencing policy and legislature and fostering a sense of environmental stewardship among the citizens of Sri Lanka



The publication on the southern border of Sinharaja forest aims at rekindling the intrinsic conservation values of the readers and stimulate discussions on conservation. As the passion for conservation emanates from an understating of the core benefits embraced by pristine rainforests such as Sinharaja, this publication seeks to create awareness which would trigger effective conservation.



The event will be graced by Mr. Anura Sathurusinghe, the Conservator General of Forest while the guest speaker for the evening will be Prof. Savithri Gunatilleke, a renowned Sinharaja conservationist.



The event is open to the public and entrance will be free of charge. The public is requested to RSVP by 5 December 2018 to mail@efl.lk



Follow the event details via https://www.facebook.com/events/720545578300838/The Right to Information (RTI) Commission issued an order on November 27, 2018 directing the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) to release data on Employee Provident Fund (EPF) secondary market transactions relating to 2015 and 2016.



The order was issued in favour of Verite Research, a Colombo-based private think tank, which filed an RTI request in May 2017 to obtain this data.

The CBSL had refused to release this data, claiming that it was exempted from having to comply with the information requested.

The order to release the data was issued following several hearings before the RTI Commission.REUTERS, 02nd DECEMBER, 2018- Delegates from nearly 200 nations on Sunday began two weeks of talks to tackle deep political divisions at the most important U.N. meeting on global warming since the landmark 2015 Paris deal to shift away from fossil fuels.



Expectations are low that negotiations in Katowice, at the heart of Polands coal region, will be sufficient to address concerns laid out in reports over recent weeks on the severity of rising greenhouse gas emissions.



The political climate has also been transformed since the Paris agreement and the fragile global unity that brought about that accord has shattered. Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama declared the U.N. conference open on Sunday and handed over the presidency of the talks to Michal Kurtyka, Polands deputy environment minister.President's Counsel Kushan de Alwis, Ali Sabri and Romesh de Silva -- appearing for the respondents in the Quo Warranto writ petition filed by 122 MPs questioning the legitimacy of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and his government to hold office -- said the applications should be dismissed on the basis that the Hanzard produced as a supporting document was not a final thus not admissible in Court.

Kushan de Alwis PC said the petitioners had sought relief based on a document which can be corrected even tomorrow, because of a two-week time limit for the parliament proceedings as published in the Hanzard to be corrected if necessary.

He said the applications were filed in Court on November 23 based on the Hanzard prepared on the proceedings that took place in Parliament on November 14 and as such there was a question on the finality of the Hanzard, because as at that date it was an uncorrected document.

Counsel said the Hanzard on which the petitioners based their applications could not be admissible or entertained in Court because the Court could not rely on draft documents, which are yet to be finalised.

He said the burden of proof on whether the documents were final was the responsibility of the petitioners and that an application based on a draft document was sufficient enough to be dismissed.

President's Counsel Romesh de Silva said it was a misrepresentation of material facts by the petitioners because they had not informed Court that the Hanzard that they had relied upon was an uncorrected version.

President's Counsel Ali Sabri said the petitioners, in their application, despite challenging the appointment of the respondent as prime minister by the President in the first place, they are seeking relief only on the matters which took place on November 14 and onwards.

He said the manner in which the parliamentary proceedings took place on November 14 was nothing but a sham because the manner in which the motion to suspend the Standing Orders was decided and the no-confidence motion was voted on through a division of Ayes and Noes' contradicted the parliamentary SOs.

Associating with the President's Counsel Gamini Marapana's earlier argument, Ali Sabri PC was of the view that the proclamation issued by the president on November 9, 2018 to dissolve parliament will stand dissolved despite the interim order given by the Supreme Court was not the final determination of the Court because when something is dissolved it cannot be suspended, and the interim order is prospectively effected, therefore the decision of dissolution stands and as such Parliament could not have even met on November 14.

Responding to the arguments by the counsel for the respondents, President's Counsel K. Kanag-Iswaran said the parliamentary proceedings were admissible as evidence under the law and not impeachable by Court.

He said the question here was about the respondent (Mahinda Rajapaksa) holding on to illegal power, as Prime Minister the concern should be on the illegality, because under the Article 48 when there is a no-confidence motion passed, the Cabinet stands dissolved.

Kanag-Iswaran PC said there could not be any dispute on the matter of the no-confidence motion because 122 parliamentarians had filed this petition.

Considering the submissions, the Bench comprising Judge Preethi Padman Surasena (President of the Court of Appeal) and Judge Arjun Obeysekara observed the possibility of delivering a preliminary order on the petitions by 3.00 p.m. if the Bench was in a position to prepare a comprehensive judgement by that time. (Shehan Chamika Silva)Many key winter recreational real estate markets recorded strong price hikes year-over-year.

According to Royal LePage, the healthy price appreciation in these areas was driven by the increasing demand from retirees, investors and buyers looking for winter getaways.

The number of buyers shopping for a four-season recreational property, be they travelling a modest drive from the local metropolis or a jet-setting trip across the pond, is again on the rise, and recreational property values are rising as a result. This is particularly true in the mountainside condominium market as more and more investors seek the convenience of lock-and-leave living, said Phil Soper, president and CEO of Royal LePage.

In western Canada, the median price of a condominium in winter recreational regions increased, while the median price for detached properties declined.

The report revealed that the condominium prices in Whistler and Mont-Tremblant (Station) rose 26.5% and 30.0%, respectively. Condominium prices in Canmore, meanwhile, also grew significantly when compared to 2017 figures. On top of this, the town saw an increase in sales activity.

Quebecs strong economic performance and consumer confidence have pushed the demand for the regions winter recreational properties higher. At the same time, buyers with more discretionary income from within the province pressured recreational property prices to track higher.

Collingwood, Ontarios median prices also rose, thanks to the residents within Toronto and the Golden Horseshoe who chose to take advantage of the regions accessible year-round amenities.Speaker of Parliament Karu Jayasuriya asserted that the leaders who ensure the rule of law coupled with the right vision, dedication, commitment and discipline are critical for Sri Lanka to reach its full economic potential

To begin, after the financial crisis, the regulators and funds came up with a new bunch of new governance structures and rules that they wanted their companies to practice and adopt. This new governance regime brought about new challenges for the chairman, the conscience keeper in a business.



The world we operate in is entirely different to the time. Today, the increased focus on compliance and governance now permeate every aspects of the business. As an example, a board is expected to review all executive compensation schemes on a regular basis to ensure that they cannot be viewed as driving inappropriate behaviour.



A board is also expected to review every compliance violations of their board members for a start in order to ensure the company maintains consistently high standards of ethics, especially when their members hold office elsewhere.



Corporate culture normally permeates and influences every part of a company. Of particular importance is the role culture plays in corporate strategy and performance. Culture is also increasingly on the agenda of regulators, with some, such as those in the United Kingdom, now holding boards directly responsible for oversight of corporate culture.



Other companies are under deferred prosecution agreements or corporate integrity agreements from the US. Therefore, a board needs to play a key guardianship role as well as ensuring employees are fully aware of their obligations. The reason for this is the concept that good corporate culture, grounded in good core values based on corporate governance, helps to sustain business growth and attract and retain ethical employees and customers.



At a macro level, attracting investment requires protecting investors. Investor protection requires both law and the effective enforcement of law. However, in many developing countries, neither the quality of the law nor its enforcement is adequate.



As to law, a few developing countries have, for example, an enforceable concept of the fiduciary duties that controlling shareholders, directors and managers owe to investors  particularly to minority shareholders. To join the global capital market, developing countries will need to attend to these deficiencies because private capital is necessary for economic development but capital does not flow to badly managed markets.



Investors, whether purchasers of equity or lenders, will not invest in a market or a company they view as unstable, corrupt or utterly lacking basic protections for their investment and contractual rights.



Thus, countries seeking to create a capital market and private enterprises seeking to attract local or global capital must develop a framework that assures public investors that the assets they provide will be protected. That requires good governance at enterprise level and sound leadership.

Simply stated, board leadership means the effectiveness of the board in overseeing management and the affairs of the company. For financial institution it also includes ensuring that risks accepted by the financial institution can be safely managed.



Integrating governance

Corporate governance requirements can often be satisfied when it comes to the letter of the law but respecting the spirit of the law is a challenge for some companies. Much has been said and written about culture change since the financial crisis. For example, in Enron, analyst found a strong correlation between a failure to embrace the spirit of corporate governance and deep-seated organisational culture problems.



Furthermore, it is now widely accepted that the CEO and top executive behaviour, attitudes and values determine organisational culture and no matter how many mission or value statements HR plasters on the walls, it is the top management that finally shapes the values in a business. This dimension is probably the biggest chink in an organisations corporate governance amour.



Role of HR

Therefore, the corporate governance in my view is an issue that encompasses an entire organisation but without a supportive board will most likely to be sidelined. As a result, HR is often the victim of a no-go cycle. Because in many businesses, corporate governance still lacks business perspective and HR lacks the standing within the organisation to talk governance. So, without that stature, HR often has trouble getting a foot in the door to discuss business challenges like corporate governance.



Therefore, HR must and needs to play an important role to promote good corporate governance but to do that they should be well trained in the procedures and demonstrate the value of good corporate governance to business sustainability and for attracting and retaining talent.

Today, the current governance debate in many companies is focusing not only on the changes and upgrades that need to be made to the processes but also on the different players who need to have a role in either driving good governance or monitoring governance within the enterprise.



Therefore, within a company, focus is required from all the key functions to promote governance. However, HR can facilitate good governance within an enterprise by focusing on three main areas: firstly, HR can set and implement a framework for executive pay. Secondly, it can drive performance evaluation beyond the corporation and into the boardroom. Thirdly, it can ensure that there are good systems for succession planning. Lastly, help the enterprise to take a broader view of the relationship between long-term business success and practicing good ethics.



Culture needs to become a standing agenda item for the board to make sure complacency doesnt become an issue and that a strong culture remains a focus of management and employees. To help oversee that monitoring, a dashboard with cultural indicators from across the company is a useful tool. These tools motivate investors to move into companies that uphold environmental, social and governance standards.

(Dinesh Weerakkody is an HR thought leader)Lillie Freeman Audio Article

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Gene Ernest Maeckel of Poth, Texas, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Thursday, Nov. 18, 2021. Born...ANNAPOLIS ROYAL, N.S. - It's been a century since Fort Anne became Canada's first administered national historic site, but much of the history surrounding the once hotly contested grounds in Annapolis Royal, N.S., is still shrouded in mystery.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 2/12/2018 (1089 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Garrison Graveyard at Fort Anne in Annapolis Royal, N.S. is seen in this undated handout photo. It's been over a century since Fort Anne became Canada's first national historic site, but much of the history surrounding the once hotly-contested grounds in Annapolis Royal, N.S., is still shrouded in mystery. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO - Parks Canada

ANNAPOLIS ROYAL, N.S. - It's been a century since Fort Anne became Canada's first administered national historic site, but much of the history surrounding the once hotly contested grounds in Annapolis Royal, N.S., is still shrouded in mystery.

On Monday, a team of researchers hope to use new technology to unlock some of the old secrets buried within Fort Anne's Garrison Graveyard, which is one of the oldest English cemeteries in Canada.

"To understand where we're going, we need to understand where we've been," said Ted Dolan, Parks Canada's site and visitor experience manager for historic sites in southwestern Nova Scotia.

"Any additional information that we have as to what happened on our landscape in the past is really going to inform us as to who we are and where we come from."

Dolan describes Fort Anne as "the most fought-over piece of land in Canadian history since European colonization." Originally fortified by the Scots as early as 1629, the site was later taken over by the French, before it fell to British troops in 1710. It would remain a regular battle scene for another 50 years.

While over 200 British headstones still stand in the Garrison Graveyard, Dolan said researchers believe there could be more than 2,000 people buried at the site whose wooden markers have since decayed over time.

In addition, prior to 1710, Dolan said French soldiers and Acadians from the region were buried at the nearby St. Jean-Baptiste parish, which had a cemetery located close to the fort.

While researchers aren't completely sure where the French and Acadian cemetery is, he said they have a "pretty good idea."

"When the British came, they were Protestant and the Acadians and French were Catholic, so they didn't want to be buried in the same area. So there's a big open area by the existing cemetery that we think is where the Acadian cemetery is," said Dolan.

He said the technology that will be used to assess the sites is less invasive than extensive archaeological digs.

Boreas Heritage Consulting, a Halifax-based archeological and heritage research company, will use ground-penetrating radar to scan beneath the surface and collect 3D data, which will help map out and identify historic infrastructure and unmarked graves.

Meanwhile, a group of researchers from the Nova Scotia Community College in nearby Middleton will fly drones overhead to capture high-resolution aerial photographs of the cemetery and generate a digital model of the site.

The data will be passed along to Mapannapolis, a volunteer organization that creates web-based maps of heritage sites in the historical community.

Heather LeBlanc, the project designer for Mapannapolis, said it's "like putting a puzzle together: the puzzle of where are the Acadians, and what information is out there."

Parks Canada and Mapannapolis are expecting to get the results of the survey by mid-December, and they hope to create an interactive way for people to learn more about the site.

The Annapolis Royal area is steeped in history, with nearby Port Royal said to have been the location of Canada's first permanent European settlement.

In March 2017, the CBC program "Canada: The Story of Us" came under fire from both Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil and Annapolis Royal Mayor Bill MacDonald after an episode asserted that the country's first permanent European settlement was established in 1608 near what is now Quebec City.

At the time, the premier said the history of Canada started three years earlier, when French explorer Samuel de Champlain founded a settlement at Port Royal, now a national historic site in his riding.

CBC responded that the two-hour show focused on the Quebec City area because it has maintained a permanent population without interruption from 1608 onward  unlike Port Royal, which went briefly unoccupied during its early history.

 By Alex Cooke in HalifaxWho can legally accept the Speakers ruling? (Photo AFP)

The Chief Justice reached this place of eminence with his judicial experience in the minor judiciary-is an ornament for career judges who-take to long to reach high office

See. ...see..do you see.. a glint of light with a silver lining amidst the dark clouds that overhang the public domain ? I do. Peer degrees penetratively to see the glimmer of hope during these hopeless days; when hope itself has flown away.



While those wretched parliamentarians talk of sovereignty, picked in the chambers of dodgy lawyers they consulted to find a comfort zone to laze in the sun for just a few more days, ( legal giants of the past- H.L de Silva, E.D Wickremanayake S.L.Gunasekera would think of the black-coated minions of today?) Fortunately the Presidents orders were struck down by an interim judicial pronouncement that made judges heroes of the last resort (possessing a judicial outfit that we can be proud of after carrying whims of the executive for too long) restored a semblance of confidence. Knowing those worthy robed judges from a distance, the final order, maybe with an enlarged bench - will first extend the stay order until the court gives its final order. Sure will bring sunshine, in these days of gloom and doom, overcoming the present impasse. Is the judiciary the last saviors to guide us on to a proper path?



Look to the judiciary with Colombos legal fraternity sadly being mere nodding dodos- not advisors - but listeners/followers of their political masters. Chief Justice being newly appointed makes his task more onerous, alongside Priyantha and Prassana Jayewardane restored a fighting spirit that spilled over limits of tolerance in the near past made the three member judicial team rooted firmly in my book of heroes. The Chief Justice reached this place of eminence with his judicial experience in the minor judiciary-is an ornament for career judges who-take to long to reach high office while the formers CJs husband avoided incarceration by a whisker.

Rather doubt if she was sitting as the prime judge in court. Any such reduced punishment for the heinous wrongdoing while where do you hear of those great men of the Bar Association who danced a jig and dropped her like a hot potato when she returned home.She got too big for her boots-now deservingly a forgotten character.

Searching for a light at the end of a long tunnel that appears to be never ending. Justice should not be rushed nor hurried instead be parried to its rightful place. Let me take you to that light we yearn which is within seeing distance.



Parliamentarians showed their true self at a session where Speaker lost his bearings.



His credibility, being deemed partisan. Crazy to state, when an ominous decision is awaited, amidst the pandemonium, that he relies on the sound effects rather than on a count made electronically or physically.Who can legally accept the Speakers ruling? Recount is called for, if so. Why does a honest man make such a diabolical ruling in favour of the party that elected him? He is partisan, full stop. A night of many mistakes in surroundings where no heroes emerged where most were dubbed as pulp.



Genuine parliamentary way of life



If you truly believe in a genuine parliamentary way of life, rise up and be a man, and vote wisely which is the prime function, to cleanse out the existing crap of parliamentarians-that dance to any tune that suits them at our expense. Who is Wasantha Senanayake hop step and jump specialist-a disgrace to the Senanayake clan - such are the lads today.



Parliamentary democracy, sick with the sad performance of the men in parliament, it is time to usher a new set of parliamentarians for the better or for worse ridding off the unruly present mob. The assignment is in your hands alone. Would you do it in 2020 or rather live with the motley crowd as at present to represent you? If we look at the past, Sri Lankan voters are often taken for a ride with many promises that materialize little as we have short memories of the past. Most UNP/SLFP supporters vote for the official party nominee and cry what can we do, as we are committed to the party of out forefathers. Suffer in silence if you are stupid for another 5 years from 2020 by failing to cast your vote sensibly



Now is the time to oust both MR and RW because those two champions watched the carnage in parliament without ordering their disorderly members to behave with decorum.Why dont you vote to usher in a newer set of parliamentarians of any party of your choice with fresh thinking ? Have you the guts to mark the ballot paper or will you forget the events of last week in parliament when you can vote in 2020 to rid of the rubbish that you have continuously been voted for by you-elected and derided most vocally thereon? The ball is in the court of the voter. Legitimately, unless; parliamentarians give a 2/3 majority - voting sensibly is the need awaiting till 2020 belatedly when the people exercise their right to vote. Please do not be too harsh on Jayampathy as he did as well as he could with his mint size brain; what H.W Jayawardane and Mark Fernando did with ability and ease. What more can you expect from the likes of Jayampathy, a protege of Sarah Siva. Naturally confusion is round the corner. Let me labour no more on a worthless issue.

Parliamentary democracy, sick with the sad performance of the men in parliament, it is time to usher a new set of parliamentarians for the better or for worse ridding off the unruly present mob



Need to ask MR just a single question, and await an answer. Why did you scuttle the aspirations of the people by not voting against the 19th and talk big now against the 19th Amendment or tell your blind and sick-minions to vote in haste in favour of such legislation after you knew CJ Siravan failed to provide an answer to counsel Gomin Dayasri and to the issues raised by him in the case of Gomin Dayasri vs Attorney General - the consolidated case on the19th amendment.



Did you in the opposition seek legal advise before you voted on 19A or can you please tell the public at least what your legal pundits suggested you to do ?



A counter to MR



Appearing for myself - Here are the synopsis of the written submissions I propose to make orally if required offer any elucidation. I shall express my opinion as a legal watchdog on the constitution and find a practical solution to end the current crisis tell which I shall place before you before court.



As a counter to MR holding elections at the most favourable time for himself; the good governance kids made it impossible to hold elections at any time; but only after 4 1/2 years time unless 2/3 of the members voted in favour of a resolution to hold elections earlier. Would these worldly parliamentarians that behaved to discredit themselves give away their privileges which are beyond the means of the ordinary people?



(B ) President Sirisena, a resident from Pollonnaruwa, did well to beat Rajapaksa the resident from Hambantota, but that is history. Things have changed incredibly fast, whereas Sirisena acts according to his fancy in nominating PMs contrary to the Constitution. In most democratic societies impeachment against a President would have been under way for flagrant violation of the constitution, but here he continues to indulge in more mischief making swinging between the UNP and its rivals for his benefit. Both are men with not high as learned and with no inclination to read and learn. Both men react instinctively without any respect for the prime law set out in the constitution. Are we also a nation with a short memory?



In this sad episode who behaved worst?That is easy! Its Sirisena acting without any respect for the constitution; he did it in his own stupid way to cross bridges for his political wellbeing. Each day he does a thing that attracts material for his impeachment.Yet, the biggest loser is Mahinda as he was the comfortable winner on a popular vote from the electorates. Why did he not bide time and await a comfortable win on a popular vote from any combine of parties? Did Sirisena fix him for all times....No his trusted legal advisor should be pasted,



People are fed up as they need the economy improved and they well realise that the persons that suffocate Parliament are the losers. Dont ever be too harsh on a man who wiped out terrorism, but take to the cleaners his advisors and lawyers who make a fool of him, by allowing him to do what he is presently doing!



Ranil is so unpopular he cannot expect to return as PM and Sirisena realises this fact and takes advantage of it. If Ranil resigns UNP can be revitalized and give a lead to an SLFP and its companion parties to reject Mahinda. That will open the field to a new leader.



It is in the the interest of Ranil and Mahinda to retire gracefully and become senior statesmen so as to come out and guide the nation from their armchairs. They can give their valued opinions without any political coloration.We still need both in different offices for their experiences in security concerns and handling foreigners reinvestments. Let it be the President or Prime Minister or Chief Justice they are all beneath the law including the Constitution. Once the Constitution is deemed passed by the parliament it becomes the supreme law of the land. None in the opposition voted against it.The Soyuz-FG rocket booster with Soyuz MS-11 space ship carrying a new crew to the International Space Station blasts off at the Russian leased Baikonur cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, Monday.PITTSBURGH  Sundays public lighting of a Menorah outside a Pittsburgh synagogue where 11 people were killed in a mass shooting was an opportunity to honour the dead, mark Hanukkahs theme of survival and allow the community to reinforce its solidarity.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 2/12/2018 (1090 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

PITTSBURGH  Sundays public lighting of a Menorah outside a Pittsburgh synagogue where 11 people were killed in a mass shooting was an opportunity to honour the dead, mark Hanukkahs theme of survival and allow the community to reinforce its solidarity.

"To me, its a simple message: The light is the message," Rabbi Jeffrey Myers said, pointing to the Menorah standing at the corner where a makeshift memorial for the 11 victims once stood and was visited by thousands paying their respects.

Five weeks after the massacre -- believed to be the deadliest attack on Jews in the U.S. -- about 500 people gathered outside Tree of Life to pray, sing songs and witness the lighting of the Menorah.

"We are practicing our Jewish faith publicly and proudly," said Stephen Cohen, co-president of New Light, whose congregation, along with congregants from Dor Hadash and Tree of Life, had gathered at the synagogue when the shooting occurred Oct. 27.

The fact that hundreds of people showed up for the ceremony came as no surprise to officials of the three congregations.

"I dont think there are enough adjectives to describe the community support," said Myers, who was leading Shabbat services at Tree of Life synagogue Oct. 27, when the shooting occurred.

"Were such a tight-knit community," said Ilana Kohanbash, who attended the Menorah lighting with her husband, Jason. "Its also a wake-up call for what we need to do to keep our faith, and (that) we need to take precautions. It could happen to anybody."

The suspected shooter, Robert Bowers, raged against Jews during and after the shooting, authorities said. He remains jailed without bail, and has pleaded not guilty to numerous murder and hate crime charges.

David Hausdorff, 53, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was in town on business and came to the lighting ceremony to show support.

"Its unfathomable, this act of violence," Hausdorff said. Its unconscionable in any house of worship, let alone in a neighbourhood I grew up in. If I werent here to actually see it, I wouldnt grasp the totality of the emotional devastation."

The Menorah lighting comes less than a week after the end of Shloshim, a 30-day mourning period observed by Jews following a death.

"We all begin the process of moving forward," said Ellen Surloff, president of Dor Hadash. "You move forward one day at a time. You have good days and some not-so-good days."

Although the gunman targeted the Jewish community, Cohen cautioned that the shooting serves as a warning.

"The reality is it affects other religious communities, too," he said. "We are coming together in comradeship and to help to see if we can work together. What happened here, clearly this is a sign, this is a signal and it cant be ignored."

The Associated PressTOKYO  One of the biggest mysteries surrounding the arrest of Nissans former chairman Carlos Ghosn is over how he allegedly could have underreported his income by millions of dollars for years and why the company is going after the suspected wrongdoing now.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 2/12/2018 (1089 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

TOKYO  One of the biggest mysteries surrounding the arrest of Nissans former chairman Carlos Ghosn is over how he allegedly could have underreported his income by millions of dollars for years and why the company is going after the suspected wrongdoing now.

Ghosn, who headed the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Motors auto alliance, was arrested Nov. 19 on suspicion he underreported his income by $44 million over five years, or about half of what he was really making. Nissan Motor Co. and Mitsubishi have ousted him as chairman; the board of Renault SA of France says its waiting for more evidence.

Nissan is among a growing list of top-name Japanese companies whose corporate governance has been found lacking in recent years.

"Wait a minute. Who wrote the financial statements? The accountants. Who audited them? The auditors," Christopher Richter, auto analyst for CLSA Securities Japan Co., said of the case. "How do you do this without other people being complicit?"

Japanese prosecutors say Ghosn and another Nissan executive, Greg Kelly, an American suspected of collaborating with him, were arrested because they are considered flight risks. But the timing of the scandal, given the length and scale of the alleged wrongdoing, is raising questions.

Why did Nissan choose to come forward now, asks Eric Schiffer, chief executive of Reputation Management Consultants in the Los Angeles, California, area.

"If Nissan knew about this all along and decided to pull the trigger, such Machiavellian tactics will significantly backfire on the brand," Schiffer said.

Japanese media have reported that two other company employees contacted authorities as whistleblowers and sought plea deals. Ghosn has not made any public statements about the case.

Kellys American lawyer Aubrey Harwell said his client, who was dismissed as a Nissan executive director after his arrest, did nothing wrong.

Kelly acted "according to the law and according to company policy," Hartwell said. "He had talked to people in the company and to outsiders, and he believed everything he did was done totally legally," he said in a telephone interview from his office in Nashville, Tennessee.

Prosecutors have released very little information. Neither man has been officially charged. Under the Japanese system, suspects can be held for weeks for questioning without any charges.

A source familiar with an internal investigation by Nissan said the hidden salary was categorized as "deferred income," meaning it was promised for later on, such as after Ghosns retirement, and the documents promising the money were kept secret from auditors and others. He spoke on condition of anonymity as he was not authorized to discuss such details.

One possible motive is that Ghosn was seeking to avoid public criticism over his multi-million dollar paychecks, which are a rarity in Japan even for top executives. Even the underreported amounts, about 1 billion yen ($9 million) each year, drew unwelcome scrutiny and commentary.

Ghosn was forced to defend his salary at shareholders meetings beginning in 2010, when Japan began requiring the disclosure of individual executive pay.

Executive pay packages in the west tend to be higher -- Toyota Motor Corp.s Chief Executive Akio Toyoda earns less than 400 million yen ($3.5 million) a year. But many Japanese companies lack the sorts of systematic checks required for publicly listed U.S. companies. That includes periodically changing who checks financial statements instead of having the same people do it for many years.

Japan needs independent oversight for executive pay, said corporate governance expert Takuji Saito, who teaches at Keio Business School.

"The problem here was that the pay was significant, in line with global standards, but the way it was decided was still so Japanese," he said of Nissans lack of transparency. "Nissan deserves criticism for having allowed this to continue unchecked for so long."

Saito believes that failing to report deferred income is still "a grey area in criminality" in Japan, but a clear problem in corporate governance.

Its certainly turned out to be a big problem for Ghosn, 64. He is being held at a Tokyo detention centre pending his indictment or release and has hired Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP to represent him.

Japanese media say, without citing sources, that Ghosn is asserting his innocence, insisting he always wanted his income reports to be legal and denying he signed secret documents. Prosecutors have refused to comment.

Whether a suspect intended to commit a crime or did it unknowingly is important in determining criminality under Japanese law.

Nissan veteran Hiroto Saikawa, who took over from Ghosn as the automakers chief executive last year, has harshly criticized his former boss and vowed to instil greater transparency and accountability at Nissan. The company is setting up a panel of outsiders to come up with recommendations, including reviewing the companys executive compensation system.

The raft of scandals at many blue chip Japanese companies suggests managers are struggling to meet sometimes overly ambitious profit targets amid slowing demand, labour shortages, rising costs and intensifying competition. But they also highlight a rift between old-guard practices and an increasingly global business world in Japan.

-- Major steelmaker Kobe Steel was charged with violating competition laws after massive faking over many years of quality data for products sent to hundreds of companies, including aluminum castings and copper tubes for autos, aircraft, nuclear power plants, appliances and trains. Kobe Steel said a zealous pursuit of profit, unrealistic targets and an insular corporate culture caused the wrongdoing.

-- In 2016, Mitsubishi Motors Corp. disclosed it falsified mileage data. That followed a massive coverup over decades of auto defects thought to have helped cause a fatal accident. In 2004 its president, Katsuhiko Kawasoe, was arrested. He was sentenced to three years in prison, suspended for five years, and did not serve time in jail.

-- In 2015, electronics maker Toshiba Corp. said it had doctored its books in a systematic accounting coverup that began in 2008 or earlier. The company declared bankruptcy, stricken by troubles in its nuclear business after multiple meltdowns in March 2011 at a power plant in Fukushima, northeastern Japan.

-- Beginning in 2014, auto parts supplier Takata Corp. recalled more than 100 million defective air-bag inflators linked to 25 deaths and more than 180 injuries worldwide. Last year, Takata pleaded guilty to fraud in a U.S. court and agreed to pay more than $1 billion (109 billion yen) in penalties.

These scandals and more, from faked data to cutting corners, have driven calls for stricter corporate oversight. Reflecting widespread sentiments, Schiffer, the brand management expert, says he finds it hard to believe Nissan insiders werent aware of what was going on earlier.

Otherwise, they were "incompetent," he said.



Yuri Kageyama is on Twitter at https://twitter.com/yurikageyama

On Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/yurikageyama/?hl=en

Elaine Kurtenbach

Asia Business Editor

The Associated Press

ekurtenbach@ap.org

Office: 66-2632-6911

Cell: 66-61-410-5522

Fax: 66-2267-9006

The Associated PressTOKYO - One of the biggest mysteries surrounding the arrest of Nissan's former chairman Carlos Ghosn is over how he allegedly could have underreported his income by millions of dollars for years and why the company is going after the suspected wrongdoing now.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 2/12/2018 (1089 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

FILE - In this May 11, 2016, file photo, Mitsubishi Motors Corp. Chairman and CEO Osamu Masuko, center, and President Tetsuro Aikawa, left, bow during their press conference in Tokyo. The raft of scandals at many blue chip Japanese companies suggests managers are struggling to meet sometimes overly ambitious profit targets amid slowing demand, labor shortages, rising costs and intensifying competition. But they also highlight a rift between old-guard practices and an increasingly global business world in Japan. In 2016, Mitsubishi Motors Corp. disclosed it falsified mileage data. That followed a massive cover-up over decades of auto defects thought to have helped cause a fatal accident. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, File)

TOKYO - One of the biggest mysteries surrounding the arrest of Nissan's former chairman Carlos Ghosn is over how he allegedly could have underreported his income by millions of dollars for years and why the company is going after the suspected wrongdoing now.

Ghosn, who headed the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Motors auto alliance, was arrested Nov. 19 on suspicion he underreported his income by $44 million over five years, or about half of what he was really making. Nissan Motor Co. and Mitsubishi have ousted him as chairman; the board of Renault SA of France says it's waiting for more evidence.

Nissan is among a growing list of top-name Japanese companies whose corporate governance has been found lacking in recent years.

"Wait a minute. Who wrote the financial statements? The accountants. Who audited them? The auditors," Christopher Richter, auto analyst for CLSA Securities Japan Co., said of the case. "How do you do this without other people being complicit?"

Japanese prosecutors say Ghosn and another Nissan executive, Greg Kelly, an American suspected of collaborating with him, were arrested because they are considered flight risks. But the timing of the scandal, given the length and scale of the alleged wrongdoing, is raising questions.

Why did Nissan choose to come forward now, asks Eric Schiffer, chief executive of Reputation Management Consultants in the Los Angeles, California, area.

"If Nissan knew about this all along and decided to pull the trigger, such Machiavellian tactics will significantly backfire on the brand," Schiffer said.

Japanese media have reported that two other company employees contacted authorities as whistleblowers and sought plea deals. Ghosn has not made any public statements about the case.

Kelly's American lawyer Aubrey Harwell said his client, who was dismissed as a Nissan executive director after his arrest, did nothing wrong.

Kelly acted "according to the law and according to company policy," Harwell said. "He had talked to people in the company and to outsiders, and he believed everything he did was done totally legally," he said in a telephone interview from his office in Nashville, Tennessee.

Only Ghosn's attorneys and embassy officials from Lebanon, France and Brazil, where he has citizenship, are allowed to visit him. On Monday, Imad Ajami, a Lebanese consultant in Tokyo who has spoken with people allowed to visit Ghosn, said he also was asserting his innocence.

Ajami said Ghosn's visitors have bought him a mattress, clothing, cheese and other foods to make his stay under the frugal conditions in the detention centre more comfortable. Detainees usually sleep on straw tatami mats and are fed mostly rice, soup and vegetables.

Prosecutors have released very little information about the case and neither man has been officially charged. In Japan suspects can be held for weeks for questioning without any charges.

A source familiar with an internal investigation by Nissan said the hidden salary was categorized as "deferred income," meaning it was promised for later on, such as after Ghosn's retirement, and the documents promising the money were kept secret from auditors and others. He spoke on condition of anonymity as he was not authorized to discuss such details.

One possible motive is that Ghosn was seeking to avoid public criticism over his multi-million dollar paychecks, which are a rarity in Japan even for top executives. Even the underreported amounts, about 1 billion yen ($9 million) each year, drew unwelcome scrutiny and commentary.

Ghosn was forced to defend his salary at shareholders' meetings beginning in 2010, when Japan started requiring the disclosure of individual executive pay.

Pay packages in the west tend to be higher  Toyota Motor Corp.'s Chief Executive Akio Toyoda earns less than 400 million yen ($3.5 million) a year. But many Japanese companies lack the sorts of systematic checks required for publicly listed U.S. companies. That includes periodically changing who checks financial statements instead of having the same people do it for many years.

Japan needs independent oversight for executive pay, said corporate governance expert Takuji Saito, who teaches at Keio Business School.

"The problem here was that the pay was significant, in line with global standards, but the way it was decided was still so Japanese," he said of Nissan's lack of transparency. "Nissan deserves criticism for having allowed this to continue unchecked for so long."

Saito believes that failing to report deferred income is still "a grey area in criminality" in Japan, but a clear problem in corporate governance.

It's certainly turned out to be a big problem for Ghosn, 64. He is being held at a Tokyo detention centre pending his indictment or release and has hired Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP to represent him.

Japanese media say, without citing sources, that Ghosn is asserting his innocence, insisting he always wanted his income reports to be legal and denying he signed secret documents. Prosecutors have refused to comment.

Whether a suspect intended to commit a crime or did it unknowingly is important in determining criminality under Japanese law.

Nissan veteran Hiroto Saikawa, who took over from Ghosn as the automaker's chief executive last year, has harshly criticized his former boss and vowed to instil greater transparency and accountability at Nissan. The company is setting up a panel of outsiders to come up with recommendations, including reviewing the company's executive compensation system.

The raft of scandals at many blue chip Japanese companies suggests managers are struggling to meet sometimes overly ambitious profit targets amid slowing demand, labour shortages, rising costs and intensifying competition. But they also highlight a rift between old-guard practices and an increasingly global business world in Japan.

 Major steelmaker Kobe Steel was charged with violating competition laws after massive faking over many years of quality data for products sent to hundreds of companies, including aluminum castings and copper tubes for autos, aircraft, nuclear power plants, appliances and trains. Kobe Steel said a zealous pursuit of profit, unrealistic targets and an insular corporate culture caused the wrongdoing.

 In 2016, Mitsubishi Motors Corp. disclosed it falsified mileage data. That followed a massive coverup over decades of auto defects thought to have helped cause a fatal accident. In 2004 its president, Katsuhiko Kawasoe, was arrested. He was sentenced to three years in prison, suspended for five years, and did not serve time in jail.

 In 2015, electronics maker Toshiba Corp. said it had doctored its books in a systematic accounting coverup that began in 2008 or earlier. The company declared bankruptcy, stricken by troubles in its nuclear business after multiple meltdowns in March 2011 at a power plant in Fukushima, northeastern Japan.

 Beginning in 2014, auto parts supplier Takata Corp. recalled more than 100 million defective air-bag inflators linked to 25 deaths and more than 180 injuries worldwide. Last year, Takata pleaded guilty to fraud in a U.S. court and agreed to pay more than $1 billion (109 billion yen) in penalties.

These scandals and more, from faked data to cutting corners, have driven calls for stricter corporate oversight. Reflecting widespread sentiments, Schiffer, the brand management expert, says he finds it hard to believe Nissan insiders weren't aware of what was going on earlier.

Otherwise, they were "incompetent," he said.

___

Yuri Kageyama is on Twitter at https://twitter.com/yurikageyama

On Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/yurikageyama/?hl=enTOKYO - One of the biggest mysteries surrounding the arrest of Nissan's former chairman Carlos Ghosn is over how he allegedly could have underreported his income by millions of dollars for years and why the company is going after the suspected wrongdoing now.

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TOKYO - One of the biggest mysteries surrounding the arrest of Nissan's former chairman Carlos Ghosn is over how he allegedly could have underreported his income by millions of dollars for years and why the company is going after the suspected wrongdoing now.

Ghosn, who headed the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Motors auto alliance, was arrested Nov. 19 on suspicion he underreported his income by $44 million over five years, or about half of what he was really making. Nissan Motor Co. and Mitsubishi have ousted him as chairman; the board of Renault SA of France says it's waiting for more evidence.

Nissan is among a growing list of top-name Japanese companies whose corporate governance has been found lacking in recent years.

"Wait a minute. Who wrote the financial statements? The accountants. Who audited them? The auditors," Christopher Richter, auto analyst for CLSA Securities Japan Co., said of the case. "How do you do this without other people being complicit?"

Japanese prosecutors say Ghosn and another Nissan executive, Greg Kelly, an American suspected of collaborating with him, were arrested because they are considered flight risks. But the timing of the scandal, given the length and scale of the alleged wrongdoing, is raising questions.

Why did Nissan choose to come forward now, asks Eric Schiffer, chief executive of Reputation Management Consultants in the Los Angeles, California, area.

"If Nissan knew about this all along and decided to pull the trigger, such Machiavellian tactics will significantly backfire on the brand," Schiffer said.

Japanese media have reported that two other company employees contacted authorities as whistleblowers and sought plea deals. Ghosn has not made any public statements about the case.

Kelly's American lawyer Aubrey Harwell said his client, who was dismissed as a Nissan executive director after his arrest, did nothing wrong.

Kelly acted "according to the law and according to company policy," Hartwell said. "He had talked to people in the company and to outsiders, and he believed everything he did was done totally legally," he said in a telephone interview from his office in Nashville, Tennessee.

Only Ghosn's attorneys and embassy officials from Lebanon, France and Brazil, where he has citizenship, are allowed to visit him. On Monday, Imad Ajami, a Lebanese consultant in Tokyo who has spoken with people allowed to visit Ghosn, said he also was asserting his innocence.

Ajami said Ghosn's visitors have bought him a mattress, clothing, cheese and other foods to make his stay under the frugal conditions in the detention centre more comfortable. Detainees usually sleep on straw tatami mats and are fed mostly rice, soup and vegetables.

Prosecutors have released very little information about the case and neither man has been officially charged. In Japan suspects can be held for weeks for questioning without any charges.

A source familiar with an internal investigation by Nissan said the hidden salary was categorized as "deferred income," meaning it was promised for later on, such as after Ghosn's retirement, and the documents promising the money were kept secret from auditors and others. He spoke on condition of anonymity as he was not authorized to discuss such details.

One possible motive is that Ghosn was seeking to avoid public criticism over his multi-million dollar paychecks, which are a rarity in Japan even for top executives. Even the underreported amounts, about 1 billion yen ($9 million) each year, drew unwelcome scrutiny and commentary.

Ghosn was forced to defend his salary at shareholders' meetings beginning in 2010, when Japan started requiring the disclosure of individual executive pay.

Pay packages in the west tend to be higher  Toyota Motor Corp.'s Chief Executive Akio Toyoda earns less than 400 million yen ($3.5 million) a year. But many Japanese companies lack the sorts of systematic checks required for publicly listed U.S. companies. That includes periodically changing who checks financial statements instead of having the same people do it for many years.

Japan needs independent oversight for executive pay, said corporate governance expert Takuji Saito, who teaches at Keio Business School.

"The problem here was that the pay was significant, in line with global standards, but the way it was decided was still so Japanese," he said of Nissan's lack of transparency. "Nissan deserves criticism for having allowed this to continue unchecked for so long."

Saito believes that failing to report deferred income is still "a grey area in criminality" in Japan, but a clear problem in corporate governance.

It's certainly turned out to be a big problem for Ghosn, 64. He's being held at a Tokyo detention centre pending his indictment or release and has hired Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP to represent him.

Japanese media say, without citing sources, that Ghosn is asserting his innocence, insisting he always wanted his income reports to be legal and denying he signed secret documents. Prosecutors have refused to comment.

Whether a suspect intended to commit a crime or did it unknowingly is important in determining criminality under Japanese law.

Nissan veteran Hiroto Saikawa, who took over from Ghosn as the automaker's chief executive last year, has harshly criticized his former boss and vowed to instil greater transparency and accountability at Nissan. The company is setting up a panel of outsiders to come up with recommendations, including reviewing the company's executive compensation system.

The raft of scandals at many blue chip Japanese companies suggests managers are struggling to meet sometimes overly ambitious profit targets amid slowing demand, labour shortages, rising costs and intensifying competition. But they also highlight a rift between old-guard practices and an increasingly global business world in Japan.

 Major steelmaker Kobe Steel was charged with violating competition laws after massive faking over many years of quality data for products sent to hundreds of companies, including aluminum castings and copper tubes for autos, aircraft, nuclear power plants, appliances and trains. Kobe Steel said a zealous pursuit of profit, unrealistic targets and an insular corporate culture caused the wrongdoing.

 In 2016, Mitsubishi Motors Corp. disclosed it falsified mileage data. That followed a massive coverup over decades of auto defects thought to have helped cause a fatal accident. In 2004 its president, Katsuhiko Kawasoe, was arrested. He was sentenced to three years in prison, suspended for five years, and did not serve time in jail.

 In 2015, electronics maker Toshiba Corp. said it had doctored its books in a systematic accounting coverup that began in 2008 or earlier. The company declared bankruptcy, stricken by troubles in its nuclear business after multiple meltdowns in March 2011 at a power plant in Fukushima, northeastern Japan.

 Beginning in 2014, auto parts supplier Takata Corp. recalled more than 100 million defective air-bag inflators linked to 25 deaths and more than 180 injuries worldwide. Last year, Takata pleaded guilty to fraud in a U.S. court and agreed to pay more than $1 billion (109 billion yen) in penalties.

These scandals and more, from faked data to cutting corners, have driven calls for stricter corporate oversight. Reflecting widespread sentiments, Schiffer, the brand management expert, says he finds it hard to believe Nissan insiders weren't aware of what was going on earlier.

Otherwise, they were "incompetent," he said.

___

Yuri Kageyama is on Twitter at https://twitter.com/yurikageyama

On Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/yurikageyama/?hl=enTORONTO - U.S. politicians will ratify the revised North American Free Trade Agreement despite threats that the continent could be left without any deal after President Donald Trump says he will withdraw from the existing trade pact, the head of BRP Inc. said Monday.

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TORONTO - U.S. politicians will ratify the revised North American Free Trade Agreement despite threats that the continent could be left without any deal after President Donald Trump says he will withdraw from the existing trade pact, the head of BRP Inc. said Monday.

"Logic will prevail," Jose Boisjoli said in an interview.

Some leading elected officials have expressed opposition to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, known as USMCA.

Returning to pre-NAFTA trade policies would create uncertainty and deep negative consequences especially for the automotive industry should the revised trade agreement not be approved, he said after ringing the opening bell on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

The Quebec-based manufacturer of Ski-Doo, Sea-Doo and Spyder recreational vehicles is celebrating 15 years since being spun off from Bombardier Inc. and five years as a public company.

Boisjoli said he's happy with the new trade agreement even though he expects the company will face a $10-million hit next year from the need to increase domestic content on all-terrain vehicles made in the United States. Steel and aluminum tariffs are expected to add another $25 million.

"So far we are quite happy with the outcome because the impact for us will be minimal."

He said USMCA will be a lot less damaging than the company and many investors once feared.

In order to be globally competitive, he said North America needs a low-cost manufacturing hub in Mexico to complement higher cost areas in Canada and the U.S., just like Europe has low-cost Eastern Europe and Asia has China and Thailand.

Bombardier Recreational Products has undergone a big change since the Bombardier family joined forces with Bain Capital and the Caisse de depot.

Its annual revenues have soared three-fold from $2 billion as it diversified from just seasonal snowmachines and personal watercraft by adding year-round products, including side-by-side vehicles, three-wheel Spyder motorcycles and boats.

It has added cheaper entry-level Sea-Doo Spark along with the Can-Am Spyder Ryker that's expected to pave the way for a tripling of three-wheel sales in the next five years.

BRP now has eight product lines that are sold by 4,500 dealers in 127 countries and 11 factories in five countries and about 10,000 employees.

Boisjoli said the diversification should allow it to better weather the next economic recession compared to 2008-2009 when its revenues plummeted 25 per cent.

"We believe we have a very strong foundation for the future," he said.

BRP expects to reach its five-year earnings target one year early and Boisjoli said he sees no reason why strong growth can't continue when the next five-year plan is unveiled next fall.

Ultimately he said the company will likely add new products in the next decade and open manufacturing factories in Russia, Brazil and China.

Motorcycles could fit the bill for a new product, but it would have to be something very different with "its own DNA" than what's currently available in the highly competitive sector.

The move towards electrification is inevitable once better energy systems are developed.

"It's not if it will come, it's when it will come," Boisjoli said, adding its products have very little space for batteries and range anxiety needs to be tackled especially for those who use their vehicles in wooded areas.

Electric three-wheel vehicles make sense along with watercraft because many lakes no longer allow power engines and snowmachines for rental operators which cater to customers who drive short distances.

BRP researchers have been working on various prototypes but Boisjoli said the powersports segment typically lags the automotive sector in adopting technology by five to 10 years and will likely wait before applying technology developed by large auto makers

Several analysts recently cut their share price forecasts for BRP as macroeconomic concerns about an eventual recession weigh on its valuation.

"We believe BRP is better positioned to weather a slowdown than at any point in its history, but given the highly discretionary nature of its products, a recession would undoubtedly hit hard," Mark Petrie of CIBC World Markets wrote in a note to clients.

BRP shares are up 80 per cent since the company went public, but are down 36 per cent since hitting an all-time high of $71.80 in September. They closed down $2.82 or 5.96 per cent at $44.52 on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

Companies in this story: (TSX:DOO, TSX:BBD.B)Winnipegs rental market is sitting in a sweet spot that equalizes the power dynamic between tenants and landlords, research from the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corp. shows

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Winnipegs rental market is sitting in a sweet spot that equalizes the power dynamic between tenants and landlords, research from the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corp. shows

The rental property vacancy rate for both Manitoba and Winnipeg is sitting at 2.9 per cent, a modest increase from the previous year where it was at 2.7 (Manitoba) and 2.8 (Winnipeg) per cent respectively.

"Im not surprised. I expected the vacancy rate would either be unchanged or up very slightly," said Avrom Charach, a spokesman for the Professional Property Managers Association.

This comes at a time when throughout the rest of the country, the vacancy rate has dropped for a second year in a row, while demand for rental properties has grown faster than supply.

Charach said many economists who study the rental market argue a three per cent vacancy rate is a perfect blance.

"Personally, I like have nothing vacant because its good for my company. But economists argue that a three per cent rate creates what they call market equilibrium, where renters and those doing the renting have as much power as each other," Charach said.

"It creates a situation where there is no imbalance of power."

Demand for rental housing has continued to grow in Manitoba, but this was offset by a corresponding uptick in supply, which  according to the study  helped push up the vacancy rate slightly.

In addition, the authors of the study suggested modest employment growth in the province and lower net migration gains also affected the rental property vacancy rate.

The average rental vacancy rate in major centres throughout the rest of Canada dropped down to 2.4 per cent this year. In 2017, it sat at three per cent.

If youre looking to rent in Manitoba, the study said the current average rental unit price is $1,134. Meanwhile, in Winnipeg, it rises to $1,179. Both figures represent a slight increase over the average prices in 2017.

"I think theres a lot of good quality rental units in the city, particularly a lot of the property managed by larger landlords," Charach said.

"Due to the rent-control system thats in place, there can be a disincentive to doing a lot work  especially discretionary work. That means you tend to have smaller buildings managed by mom and pops that have trouble keeping up due to the rent control, but its not due to a lack of trying."

The Canadian Federation of Apartment Associations, which represents owners and managers of rental suites across the country, suggested provinces and cities need to address high development charges and unnecessary delays in planning approvals if they want to combat the low vacancy rate countrywide.

Despite the fact Winnipegs market is in a fairly comfortable spot, Charach said he still thinks the city should look towards implementing those measures.

"Im not doing a lot of development at the moment, but what I do hear from the people who are developing is that we continue to have costly delays.

"We hear concerns over delays in planning approvals from everybody," Charach said.

"I even see it with renovations. It shouldnt take you close to two months to get a building permit to rebuild a suite that was destroyed due to a fire."

ryan.thorpe@freepress.mb.caTwitter: @rk_thorpeBEIJING - Buy more U.S. exports? Done. Tinker with technology tactics that irk Washington and other trading partners? Maybe. But scrap those plans, seen by Beijing as a path to prosperity and influence? Probably never.

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President Donald Trump listens to China's President Xi Jinping speak during their bilateral meeting at the G20 Summit, Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)

BEIJING - Buy more U.S. exports? Done. Tinker with technology tactics that irk Washington and other trading partners? Maybe. But scrap those plans, seen by Beijing as a path to prosperity and influence? Probably never.

The agreement by President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on a cease fire on tariffs postpones the threat of more disruption for China's exporters and their Asian suppliers. Some economists said Xi might be ready to negotiate in earnest.

Still, Beijing gave no sign of a changed stance on technology ambitions that Washington says violate Chinese market-opening obligations and might threaten U.S. industrial leadership.

Trump's complaints strike at the heart of the ruling Communist Party's state-led economic model and plans to restore China to its rightful place as a political and culture leader by creating global champions in robotics and other fields.

"It's impossible for China to cancel its industry policies or major industry and technology development plans," said economist Cui Fan of the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing.

At his weekend meeting with Xi in Argentina, Trump agreed to postpone planned U.S. tariff hikes on Chinese imports by 90 days while the two sides negotiate. The 90-day clock starts January 1. Xi revived promises to narrow China's multibillion-dollar trade surplus with the United States by purchasing more American exports.

The outcome was "as good as we could have expected," the chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, William Zarit, said in a statement.

Also late Sunday, Trump said on Twitter that Beijing agreed to cut import duties on U.S. autos. There was no Chinese confirmation of the move, which would have little impact on trade because most American vehicles sold in China are made here.

FILE - In this Dec. 1, 2018, file photo, U.S. President Donald Trump, second right, and China's President Xi Jinping, second left, attend their bilateral meeting at the G20 Summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina. A U.S.-Chinese cease fire on tariffs gives jittery companies a respite but does little to resolve a war over Beijing's technology ambitions that threatens to chill global economic growth. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais, File)

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told reporters at the White House Monday that there was an "an immediate focus on reducing auto tariffs," though he did not provide details or timing. Asked if there was a specific agreement to remove the tariffs, he said: "Yes, there was."

Yet Larry Kudlow, the top White House economic adviser, later Monday said that "We don't yet have a specific agreement on that," referring to the auto tariffs.

"But I will just tell you as an involved participant we expect those tariffs to go to zero," Kudlow added in a conference call with reporters.

Mnuchin stressed that the two leaders had detailed conversations on 142 items and said the goal now was to turn the talks into a "real agreement." He said both leaders had extended invitations to visit their respective countries and said he expects them to meet in the "near future."

Investors were pleased by the news. The Dow Jones industrial average surged 320 points in later afternoon trading.

Trump's promise gives Xi political room to negotiate after Beijing said earlier talks were impossible while Washington "holds a knife" of tariff threats to China's throat. But both leaders face a mix of economic nationalists, free trade advocates and other conflicting forces at home.

The outcome wasn't the result of a "significant change" by China, Louis Kuijs of Oxford Economics said in a report. Washington instead chose to see Beijing's argument that it already is making changes "in a more positive light."

One sign of how far apart the two sides are: China's foreign minister announced in Buenos Aires that Trump agreed to stop raising tariffs, rather than that he promised a 90-day suspension. Wang Yi failed to mention industrial policy or Trump's demand that Beijing make progress toward changing it or face renewed increases.

Those omissions suggest Beijing doesn't recognize how important those demands are to Trump, said Nick Marro of the Economist Intelligence Unit.

Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin talks with reporters about trade negotiations with China, at the White House, Monday, Dec. 3, 2018, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

"As a result we expect trade hostilities to resume in 2019," Marro said in a report.

Trump imposed a tariff hike of 25 per cent on $50 billion of Chinese imports in July over complaints Beijing steals or pressures companies to hand over technology. Trump hit an additional $200 billion of Chinese goods with a 10 per cent tariff that had been due to rise to 25 per cent on Jan. 1.

China retaliated by raising its own charges on U.S. imports.

Beijing has tried without success to recruit France, Germany, Japan and other government as allies against Trump. They dislike the American president's tactics but echo U.S. complaints about market barriers.

Xi's government has offered to alter details but rejects pressure to discard blueprints such as "Made in China 2025," which calls for creation of champions in artificial intelligence, electric cars and other industries.

Those are "central to Xi's core agenda of making China an innovation superpower" and linked to "geopolitical competition" with Washington, said Michael Hirson, Jeffrey Wright and Paul Triolo of Eurasia Group in a report.

Still, Kuijs said Chinese leaders might have hinted to the Americans of possible concessions.

China has its own grievances. Beijing is unhappy with U.S. limits on exports of "dual use" technology with possible military applications. Xi's government complains Chinese companies are treated unfairly in American security reviews of proposed corporate acquisitions, even though nearly all deals are approved unchanged.

"China hopes the United States will treat Chinese companies equally," said Song Lifan, an economist at Renmin University in Beijing.

Cui put the odds of an agreement at "higher than 50 per cent" but said he had no idea how long that might take.

The tariffs battle has overshadowed changes Xi's government has announced this year.

While Beijing retaliated for U.S. tariff hikes by imposing penalty charges on American soybeans, autos and other goods, it cut duties on factory machinery and other imports from other countries.

The government also has promised to ease limits on foreign ownership of automakers, insurance ventures and other companies.

Business groups have welcomed those changes but say they don't address more important complaints about a thicket of rules limiting access to China's finance, logistics and other industries.

Companies want a genuine response with measurable goals, said Kenneth Jarrett, the president of the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai, in an email.

A measure of progress will be whether Beijing offers "meaningful concessions" on technology, said Hirson, Wright and Triolo of Eurasia Group.

Without that, hardliners in Washington "will urge Trump to resume escalation," they said.

___

AP Researcher Henry Hou contributed.

___

AP Economics Writer Christopher Rugaber contributed to this report from Washington.Jeff Bezos boldly predicted five years ago that drones would be carrying Amazon packages to people's doorsteps by now.

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FILE- This Dec. 7, 2016, file photo provided by Amazon shows an Amazon Prime Air drone in Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom. Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos might have underestimated regulatory obstacles and privacy concerns when he told CBSAo Au60 MinutesAu in December 2013 that his company would be making drone-borne deliveries within five years. (Amazon via AP, File)

Jeff Bezos boldly predicted five years ago that drones would be carrying Amazon packages to people's doorsteps by now.

Amazon customers are still waiting. And it's unclear when, if ever, this particular order by the company's founder and CEO will arrive.

Bezos made billions of dollars by transforming the retail sector. But overcoming the regulatory hurdles and safety issues posed by drones appears to be a challenge even for the world's wealthiest man. The result is a blown deadline on his claim to CBS' "60 Minutes" in December 2013 that drones would be making deliveries within five years.

The day may not be far off when drones will carry medicine to people in rural or remote areas, but the marketing hype around instant delivery of consumer goods looks more and more like just that  hype. Drones have a short battery life, and privacy concerns can be a hindrance, too.

"I don't think you will see delivery of burritos or diapers in the suburbs," says drone analyst Colin Snow.

Drone usage has grown rapidly in some industries, but mostly outside the retail sector and direct interaction with consumers.

The government estimates that about 110,000 commercial drones are operating in U.S. airspace, and the number is expected to soar to about 450,000 in 2022. They are being used in rural areas for mining and agriculture, for inspecting power lines and pipelines, and for surveying.

Amazon says it is still pushing ahead with plans to use drones for quick deliveries, though the company is staying away from fixed timelines.

"We are committed to making our goal of delivering packages by drones in 30 minutes or less a reality," says Amazon spokeswoman Kristen Kish. The Seattle-based online retail giant says it has drone development centres in the United States, Austria, France, Israel and the United Kingdom.

Delivery companies have been testing the use of drones to deliver emergency supplies and to cover ground quickly in less populated areas. By contrast, package deliveries would be concentrated in office parks and neighbourhoods where there are bigger issues around safety and privacy.

In May, the Trump administration approved a three-year program for private companies and local government agencies to test drones for deliveries, inspections and other tasks.

But pilot programs by major delivery companies suggest few Americans will be greeted by package-bearing drones any time soon. United Parcel Service tested launching a drone from a delivery truck that was covering a rural route in Florida. DHL Express, the German delivery company, tested the use of drones to deliver medicine from Tanzania to an island in Lake Victoria.

Frank Appel, the CEO of DHL's parent company, Deutsche Post AG, said "over the next couple of years" drones will remain a niche vehicle and not widely used. He said a big obstacle is battery life.

"If you have to recharge them every other hour, then you need so many drones and you have to orchestrate that. So good luck with that," he told The Associated Press.

Appel said human couriers have another big advantage over drones: They know where customers live and which doorbell to ring. "To program that in IT is not that easy and not cheap," he said.

Analysts say it will take years for the Federal Aviation Administration to write all the rules to allow widespread drone deliveries.

Snow, the CEO of Skylogic Research, says a rule permitting operators to fly drones beyond their line of sight  so critical to deliveries  is at least 10 years away. A method will be needed to let law enforcement identify drones flying over people  federal officials are worried about their use by terrorists.

While the rules are being written, companies will rely on waivers from the FAA to keep experimenting and running small-scale pilot programs.

"People like DHL and the rest of them (will say), 'Hey, we can deliver via drone this parcel package to this island,' but that's not the original vision that Amazon presented," Snow says.

There is a long list of FAA rules governing drone flights. They generally can't fly higher than 400 feet, over many federal facilities, or within five miles of an airport. Night flights are forbidden. For the delivery business, the biggest holdup is that the machines must remain within sight of the operator at all times.

In June, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine said the FAA was being overly conservative in its safety standards for drones. The group said FAA's risk-averse attitude was holding back beneficial uses, such as drones helping firefighters who are battling a fierce blaze.

Even before the criticism by the scientific panel, the FAA had begun to respond more quickly to operators' requests for waivers from some rules, says Alan Perlman, founder of the Drone Pilot Ground School in Nashville, Tennessee. He said it is also getting easier and cheaper to buy liability insurance.

Bezos was mindful of the safety issues, telling "60 Minutes" back in 2013, "This thing can't land on somebody's head while they're walking around their neighbourhood."

That didn't stop him from predicting that drones fed with GPS co-ordinates would be taking off and making deliveries in "four, five years. I think so. It will work, and it will happen."

To Perlman, the billionaire's optimism made perfect sense.

"When you're in his world you think more about technology than regulations, and the (drone) technology is there," Perlman said.

___

David Koenig can be reached at http://twitter.com/airlinewriter

Joseph Pisani can be reached at http://twitter.com/josephpisaniOTTAWA  Franco-Manitoban leaders say their community has been politically mobilized by Ontarios cuts to French services, urging governments to put language rights above budgets.

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OTTAWA  Franco-Manitoban leaders say their community has been politically mobilized by Ontarios cuts to French services, urging governments to put language rights above budgets.

"When it comes to minority language rights  rights that are enshrined constitutionally  you cant make it a line item, like what theyre trying to do," said Christian Monnin, head of the Societe de la francophonie manitobaine.

On Saturday, about 200 protesters marched in St. Boniface to protest against Ontario Premier Doug Fords decision to cancel plans for a French-language university and consolidate the language commissioner into the general ombudsmans office.

The Ford government partially reversed some of those proposals, but only after suggesting Manitoba was getting special treatment.

Ontarios minister for francophone issues, Caroline Mulroney, tweeted on Nov. 23 that Ottawa was short-changing Ontario, citing per capita support of $35.71 for each Manitoba French-language speaker, and just $2.78 for franco-Ontarians. She called for uniform funding across the provinces.

Mulroneys office provided its calculations to the Free Press. The office of federal Official Languages Minister Melanie Joly noted the data do not include education funding.

Joly was unswayed by the idea of uniform subsidies.

"We wont start favouring one community over another," she told reporters last week, arguing a per-capita approach would make it impossible to provide services to both small and large communities. "We must take both into account," she said.

Ontario, New Brunswick and Manitoba each received $1.4 million this year from Ottawa to offer services to official language minorities.

TREVOR HAGAN / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Christian Monnin, head of the Societe de la francophonie manitobaine, speaks at Saturday's rally t in front of the St. Boniface City Hall o support Franco-Ontarians.

Manitoba Sen. Raymonde Gagne accused Mulroney of putting up "a distraction" only after causing the controversy, instead of sincerely calling for a review of how Ottawa allocates its cash.

"To come out with those numbers, I find it sad, and even worrisome," she said.

Ontario proposed its cuts a month after Quebec columnist Denise Bombardier caused an uproar. She suggested French communities outside her province had "almost disappeared" while citing the lack of French-speaking university west of Ontario  ignoring the existence of Universite de Saint-Boniface in Winnipeg.

As the former rector of that school, Gange said the comments made her "sick to my stomach" but said it was probably part of what brought people to the streets Saturday.

Monnin agreed.

"Its been somewhat of an awakening across the country for the French-Canadian community: that were all in this together, and we have to remain vigilant with our rights  because they can be eroded, over time or very quickly," he said.

"When youre in a minority community like ours, theres always that fragility."

dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.caThe Court of Appeal today issued an interim order restraining the functioning of the respondents as Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, Cabinet ministers, deputy ministers and state ministers.

The respondents were noticed to appear in Court on December 12. (S.S. Selvanayagam and Shehan Chamika Silva)

Video by PrasannaOnce again, Manitoba Justice has demonstrated the lengths to which it will go to fight the bad fight.

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Opinion

Once again, Manitoba Justice has demonstrated the lengths to which it will go to fight the bad fight.

Last week, the Manitoba Court of Appeal quashed the 1987 first-degree murder conviction of drug dealer Frank Ostrowski after determining that his original trial represented a miscarriage of justice.

The Crown withheld the details of a secret deal with a star witness used to convict Ostrowski, along with notes from a police officer who spoke with that witness before the slaying, a conversation that cast further doubt on who was responsible for the execution-style killing of Robert Nieman.

The court did not acquit Ostrowski, 69, arguing there was other evidence that might lead a jury to find him guilty. However, given that more than 30 years have passed, the court believed a new trial was impractical.

It deserves to be noted that this decision does not change the fact that Ostrowski is an unsavoury character. Still, police and prosecutors stacked the deck against him. We know this because this is not the first time Manitoba Justice has been caught cheating the system.

For those of you keeping score, this is the fourth case managed by former prosecutor George Dangerfield that was later determined to be a miscarriage of justice. Preceding Ostrowski were Thomas Sophonow, James Driskell and Kyle Unger.

A fifth Dangerfield case, Robert Sanderson, is on the verge of implosion. The federal Justice Department has concluded that a miscarriage of justice likely occurred in Sandersons 1996 triple-homicide conviction. He remains in a B.C. prison awaiting a decision by Federal Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould about how to proceed.

And a sixth Dangerfield case involving Mohamed Khan, convicted in 1994 of murdering his wife, is making its way through the federal convictions review group with the help of the Innocence Project.

Dangerfields cases are pockmarked with failures to disclose crucial information, deliberate misrepresentation of forensic or scientific evidence, and secret compensation deals to secure testimony from criminals.

Dangerfields cases have cost taxpayers tens of millions of dollars in compensating the victims of his wrongful convictions, and two judicial inquiries (Sophonow and Driskell) that laid bare what was a compromised and corrupt culture at Manitoba Justice.

With a record like that, why would Manitoba Justice continue to fight every one of Dangerfields questionable convictions so strenuously? It has taken decades in some cases to get Dangerfields convictions quashed despite the presence of overwhelming evidence of prosecutorial wrongdoing.

The cases are complex, but the common thread in just about every one is a systemic refusal by Manitoba Justice to do the right thing, even when presented with evidence of a miscarriage of justice. The departments questionable actions have taken place during NDP and Conservative governments.

In all of these cases, Manitoba Justice fought long and hard to preserve convictions that were essentially corrupt. Even after being shown evidence of that corruption, the department has spent millions to delay and frustrate the efforts of those trying to overturn the convictions.

Even today, you will find people in Manitoba Justice who will argue that Sophonow, Driskell, Unger and now Ostrowski are guilty. But consider this: Manitoba Justice is 0 and 4 in its efforts to preserve the original verdict in Dangerfields cases. And very soon, the department will likely be 0 and 6.

With a record like that, you would think Manitoba Justice might consider a different approach, one that allows it to look objectively at evidence of a miscarriage of justice and take appropriate steps to deliver a remedy that doesnt require the victims to spend decades fighting for their innocence.

Instead, Manitoba Justice has become even less willing to co-operate with those claiming they are innocent.

It took Ostrowski 17 years to establish that he was a victim of a miscarriage of justice. Much of that delay was due to the deliberate stonewalling by Manitoba Justice, which dragged its collective feet with the petulant conviction of a toddler refusing to respect bedtime.

This systemic obstinance is not confined to Dangerfield cases. Consider the case of Deveryn Ross, a political staffer for Premier Brian Pallister. As was the situation in the Dangerfield cases, the federal Justice Department reviewed Rosss claims and concluded that a miscarriage of justice likely occurred in his 1995 fraud trial, a finding based on the discovery of thousands of pages of previously undisclosed evidence.

In 2014, after 11 years of fencing with Manitoba Justice to obtain the undisclosed evidence, Ottawa asked the Manitoba Court of Appeal to pass judgment on the original conviction.

However, rather than settling this case, Manitoba Justice hired a private lawyer who has engaged in the same delay tactics that were honed in the Dangerfield cases. That lawyer was ultimately successful in convincing the appellate court to exclude a huge tract of the new evidence.

The perversity of the strategy being employed by Manitoba Justice, and the appellate courts decision to endorse that strategy, cannot be overstated.

Ottawa referred the case to the Manitoba Court of Appeal based on the magnitude and importance of the undisclosed evidence. How can the appellate court do its job without looking at all that evidence? Its pure madness.

But it has also proved to be successful. Manitoba Justice hasnt succeeded in derailing any of the wrongful convictions that have arisen under its watch. But it has made the path to exoneration longer, more difficult and more expensive for those claiming innocence.

And that might be the real goal for anyone committed to fighting the bad fight.

dan.lett@freepress.mb.caAlmost half of the cases in Manitobas provincial court stem from alleged violations of court orders, and advocates say the volume of breach charges burdens the justice system, in which offenders are too often set up to fail.

This article was published 3/12/2018 (1089 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Almost half of the cases in Manitobas provincial court stem from alleged violations of court orders, and advocates say the volume of breach charges burdens the justice system, in which offenders are too often set up to fail.

The provincial courts annual report, for April 2016 to March 2017, shows 45 per cent of all cases were for breach charges: violating probation, failing to appear in court or not following court orders.

"You cant keep people in custody forever, so what youve created is a huge administrative system and, to my mind, a lot of unnecessary custody"  University of Winnipeg criminologist Michael Weinrath

Theyre considered to be some of the most minor criminal charges, but they have consistently bulked up court dockets and individuals criminal records. Now, as the provincial government pledges to focus on restorative justice and reduce administration of justice charges, its introducing a text-message notification program to remind Winnipeggers of their court dates so they arent charged with failing to appear. The pilot project started Nov. 19 and requires individuals to opt in to receive texts.

A spokesperson for Manitoba Justice Minister Cliff Cullen said in a statement the project is one of the "proactive steps" the court is taking to deal with the high rate of administration of justice cases. The Tories say they "inherited" that from the former NDP government.

Meanwhile, criminologists, researchers and justice advocates say there is no evidence that imposing court conditions on people makes them less likely to commit crime. Theres plenty of evidence, the Canadian Civil Liberties Association says, that those conditions lead to more criminal charges.

"When we have 45 per cent of our court charges dealing with breaches, which would otherwise not be a criminal offence, that means that we have judges, prosecutors, defence attorneys and space in our correctional institutions being used to process these types of charges," said Abby Deshman, director of the criminal justice program for the Canadian Civil Liberties Association.

In 2014, the association published a report examining administration of justice charges among Canadians who were out on bail. It criticizes Manitobas zero-tolerance policies that allow people to be prosecuted for breaches even when the initial criminal charge they faced doesnt go ahead in court. Deshman said she hasnt been made aware of meaningful policy changes since then.

MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Almost half of cases in Provincial Court involve minor breaches of court orders, fed by a zero-tolerance policy that leaves probation and court officers no wiggle room for speedy, non-court resolutions.

"Theres a conversation that needs to be had about whether this is really an appropriate prioritization of limited public funds," Deshman said.

The proportion of breach cases in Manitoba courts is still well above the national average, according to the most recent five-year data from Statistics Canada (2011-2016). During that time, breach cases accounted for 33 per cent of all adult criminal cases in Manitoba compared with 22 per cent across Canada.

"It is still a problem and one that continues to grow. Were not necessarily seeing a reduction in those numbers. Were seeing an increase in those numbers," said Joanna White, community justice development co-ordinator for the Southern Chiefs Organization. As an alternative, she said SCO has planned to develop community wellness and healing centres.

"So instead of sending folks to jail, they would be required to complete intensive programming within these centres that would be part of the restorative justice process."

Advocates have repeatedly called out the overuse of "unrealistic" court-ordered conditions. They say they create a revolving cycle of court-created crime that disproportionately affects the most vulnerable people who dont have easy access to things such as addictions treatment or transportation to their probation office. Theyve asked judicial officials to pay more attention to the restrictions they impose on people who end up in court, sometimes without being convicted of an initial crime, and the ripple effects those breaches can have on families.

Yet, probation officers and police who enforce court orders are following the law when they report violations: whether its because someone drank alcohol, stayed out past curfew or communicated with someone they werent supposed to contact.

"Theres a lot of institutional or systemic reasons why people in the system like to see a lot of conditions on probation orders or recognizances and reasons for prosecutors and police to want to see those charges being laid," said University of Winnipeg criminologist Michael Weinrath. Theyre under pressure to uphold public safety and they dont want to be blamed if an offender commits a crime while on bail or probation.

"You cant keep people in custody forever, so what youve created is a huge administrative system and, to my mind, a lot of unnecessary custody," Weinrath said. A former probation officer himself, Weinrath said the situation could be improved by laying breach charges only for domestic-violence offenders, those who violate protection orders or peace bonds and people whove been convicted or charged with the most serious crimes.

In other countries, Weinrath noted, violators are ticketed and not criminally charged for breaches.

The provincial courts 2016-17 report  its first since the Supreme Court cracked down on court delays with its Jordan decision  shows the majority of the breach cases take less than four months to be completed. Two per cent  579  took longer than 18 months.

PHIL HOSSACK / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Scales of Justice

The courts last annual report, for April 2017 to March 2018, hasnt yet been released. More recent data show breach charges are still laid by the thousands each year, though they may be on the decline. The Winnipeg Police Service laid 4,536 administration of justice charges in 2017, accounting for about eight per cent of all charges laid. During the past five years, on average, breach charges accounted for about 10 per cent of all charges laid by Winnipeg police, according to the police services 2017 annual report.

In 2017-18, breach charges accounted for about 32 per cent of total adult case files handled by Legal Aid Manitoba, which deals with cases for low-income individuals who are facing jail.

"The more offences in one area just means the budget is spread a lot thinner," said Legal Aid chairman Tim Valgardson, who described breach cases as a "double-edged sword."

"I think whats really important is having a really good look at what conditions are being imposed on what individuals and which ones are being breached," he said.

"There are certainly a lot of individuals going through the criminal justice system who lack respect for the system and have no intention or no wherewithal to comply with conditions put on by judges, and I think there are other individuals that arent repeat offenders, (who) use probation to better themselves so they dont end up in the criminal justice system again."

katie.may@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @thatkatiemay

DownloadRCMP have three suspects in custody in connection with two separate incidents in which threats were made against multiple schools in the Lord Selkirk School Division Sunday night in social media posts.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 3/12/2018 (1089 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

RCMP have three suspects in custody in connection with two separate incidents in which threats were made against multiple schools in the Lord Selkirk School Division Sunday night in social media posts.

"The safety and well-being of our students is paramount and thats why were taking the measures were taking today to close down all of our schools," said Lord Selkirk School Division superintendent Michele Polinuk.

"Were concerned and continue to work with police to investigate. When we receive information that everyone we need to have in custody is in custody, we will be able to open our schools again."

RCMP have arrested an 18-year-old man, an 18-year-old woman and a 16-year-old boy, all from Selkirk, in connection with the incidents. Charges against the 18-year-old man are currently pending, RCMP said.

Polinuk said all 15 schools in the division will be closed Monday and it has not been decided when they will reopen.

Selkirk RCMP was notified of multiple violent threats in a social media post at 6:40 p.m. Sunday. The threats were directed against the Lord Selkirk Regional Comprehensive Secondary School.

The 18-year-old male suspect was subsequently located and arrested.

A screen grab of the online threat, obtained by the Free Press, shows an individual wearing a red sweater with the hood up and a mask covering much of his face. Profanity-laced text accompanying the picture says the individual plans to go on a "killing spree" the next day.

Following the arrest, Polinuk informed parents and community members that the situation had been dealt with and that schools would be open Monday.

"I sent a message out to our community, parents and staff, to inform them that an arrest had been made and our schools would be open tomorrow," she said.

However, by 11:15 p.m., Polinuk said she was notified of yet another threat posted online  this time against multiple schools in the division. Once again, RCMP was called. Around midnight Polinuk was told by police that two additional suspects had been arrested.

The 18-year-old female and 16-year-old male suspects were both arrested for uttering threats and are both in custody.

Police are not looking for additional suspects, but the investigation is ongoing, a RCMP spokesman said in written statement.

There was a glitch in the online alert system the school division uses to communicate with parents, Polinuk said, which made getting word out about the closures more difficult. The system crashed around 4:45 a.m., she said.

"Were relying on the media to get the message out and were using our own internal email system to send out as many emails as we can," Polinuk said early Monday.

She also said there was a previous social media threat against the school division about a year ago. In October, there was also another incident at the Selkirk high school that led to a lockdown. A 17-year-old student was arrested after showing up to school with a sawed-off shotgun and ammunition.

When asked why there have been a cluster of these incidents in the school division, Polinuk said that while they're concerning, she cant explain why they've happened.

"All three are unrelated, that I do know. As to why, its really difficult. In each individual case there are various backgrounds and stories and issues as to how they got to the place they got to. The why is something that I have to leave for the police to find out," she said.

A mother and son  who is a student at Selkirk high school  spoke to the Free Press about the recent string of incidents on the condition of anonymity. The son said that while these incidents make him feel a little less safe at school, he ultimately doesnt think his school is significantly more dangerous than others in Manitoba.

His mother said that while she's concerned about any threats of violence, shes been impressed with the response from local RCMP.

"There is always a certain amount of worry when this stuff comes out, but I think the school and police have done a really good job of handling this stuff. The police have really been fantastic in their responses," she said.

The school division has 15 schools in Selkirk and outlying areas and serves the communities of Lockport, St. Andrews, Clandeboye, Petersfield, Libau, Grand Marais and Victoria Beach, according to its website.

ryan.thorpe@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @rk_thorpeWhen the time finally came for Churchill to get its passenger train back on track, Doug Belcher was adamant he wanted to be among the first to ride the rails.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 2/12/2018 (1089 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

When the time finally came for Churchill to get its passenger train back on track, Doug Belcher was adamant he wanted to be among the first to ride the rails.

Belcher, a retired conductor for the Prairie Dog Central, packed his suitcase and left for the northern town from Winnipeg on Sunday.

He was among the first dozen riders on the repaired Hudson Bay Railway as Via Rail resumed service to Churchill, which is scheduled for three times per week.

"I wanted to be part of the new era, I guess," Belcher said, showing off a photo of himself wearing his old conductors uniform, which he had packed and said he planned to wear on board).

Belchers plan upon arrival was to "eat, drink and be merry and just relax. Walk around town, take photographs, talk to people being a married man, my wife said I better behave myself."

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Doug Belcher shows a photo of him as a train conductor on the Prairie Dog Central.

Churchill, which has about 900 residents, plans to welcome the train visitors Tuesday.

Michael Woelcke, general manager of Vias regional services, said Churchill residents were "over the moon" when they heard news of the companys first scheduled trip in approximately 18 months.

In May 2017, flooding washed out several parts of the rail line to Churchill and plans for repairs dragged as the lines owner, Omnitrax, refused to foot the bill.

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Doug Belcher walks to board the train at Union Station in Winnipeg.

By fall, a new ownership coalition named Arctic Gateway Group had taken over and made the necessary fixes within 35 days.

Tim Harwood-Jones hadnt planned on riding the first train to Churchill, but when his train to Thompson was cancelled Wednesday, he wound up getting re-booked in time to witness history.

Harwood-Jones said he had been pestering his area MP, Liberal cabinet minister Jim Carr, about Churchills situation and the irony of winding up on the first train back wasnt lost on him.

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Ron Grapentine waits to board the first train to Churchill in 18 months Sunday.

"Ive been feeling for (Churchill residents) with Mayor (Mike) Spence and all the people, Ive been following them. I think the governments should have just said to Omnitrax, OK were taking the line over. You reneged on your responsibility and youre keeping people  they cannot go anywhere," he said.

"Theyre in the middle of nowhere and there are no roads. They were stuck. They had to wait a year and a half (and) its an essential service, really."

The long-awaited train was scheduled to leave Union Station in Winnipeg at 12:05 p.m. and Ron Grapentine couldnt wait to begin the journey.

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Tim Harwood-Jones waits to board the first train to Churchill in 18 months.

"Ive been going up for the last 25 years at least, every winter. So I have many friends to visit there," he said, explaining how he would build igloos and winter camp many moons ago.

"(Churchill has) been always on my mind. I talk to my family about getting back to Churchill. So, hopefully, we have a safe ride up."

The 48-hour train trip stops at Dauphin, The Pas, Thompson and Gillam along the way. Tickets cost from $217 to $1,067 in Winnipeg on Sunday, a Via Rail employee said. It was expected the 162 seats and sleeper cars would be full upon arrival in Churchill.

jessica.botelho@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @_jessbuRecently, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released a policy statement recommending that parents not spank, hit or slap their children.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 3/12/2018 (1089 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Opinion

Recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released a policy statement recommending that parents not spank, hit or slap their children.

The announcement created a flurry of media attention around the worldwith headlines such as "Spanking is still really common, and still really bad for kids."

The statement is significant, but its also old news. It adds to already substantial research evidence about the risks that physical punishment poses to children.

To date, 54 countries have banned the physical punishment of children, and 56 more have declared that they will. Canada has done neither.

In Canada, the law still permits parents to use physical punishment to discipline their children.

Truth and reconciliation

This is about more than health. In my research, I am involved in a multi-disciplinary project in which we examine the intertwined health, religious and reconciliation issues as they relate to corporal punishment.

What the AAP doesnt mention is that interpretations of scripture in the Bible are one of the reasons corporal punishment has been normalized in the parenting toolbox. The influence of concepts such as "spare the rod; spoil the child" (based on Proverbs 13:24) have been widely used to justify physical punishment.

An egregious result of such teachings was the way physical punishment was used against Indigenous children in church-run and government-supported Indian Residential Schools. Call to Action 6 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission calls upon the Government of Canada to remove Section 43 of the Criminal Code: the law that allows for the physical punishment of children.

Banning corporal punishment in Canada would be in keeping with the AAPs strong and research-based statement about the need for adults to avoid physically punishing children. It would also be a critical step toward reconciliation.

Canadas lethargy is baffling

It is baffling that this law reform remains so controversial here in Canada when it has been embraced around the world. In the past year alone, the Philippines, the Republic of Kosovo, South Africa and Scotland have all taken steps towards the full legal protection of children against violence.One argument against repealing the legislation includes the view that limited use of corporal punishment does no harm and may be a benefit to the child.

But the science disagrees.

Study after study demonstrates that not only is corporal punishment ineffective in promoting long-term positive health outcomes, but it also places children at risk for poor mental health, higher levels of violence and aggression, low emotional-adjustment and increased antisocial behaviour.

A recent study led by psychologist Frank J. Elgar showed that countries that have fully banned corporal punishment have less youth violence. Public health researcher Jo Becker argues that enduring change happens when bans are combined with public education. When laws changed, changes in attitudes and practices quickly followed.

A combination of both legislation and public education is the most sensible plan for Canada.

Children need discipline

People ask me: "What happens if my child tries to run out in front of a bus? Wont changing this law stop me from protecting her?" Of course not! Keeping your child safe from danger is not physical punishment; it is a parental duty.

Physical punishment is hitting a child to cause them to feel pain in the hope that the experience of pain will correct their behaviour. This is fundamentally different from the use of appropriate force to protect a child, both in purpose and in action. Repealing laws that permit physical punishment in no way means that child discipline is not important. The opposite is true: providing discipline is an essential part of good parenting. But all children have the right to discipline that does not endanger their well-being.

I am downplaying the importance of the legal implications of reform. But the 110 countries that have either banned or are moving towards bans of physical punishment have had to think through legal issues, and Canada can do that too.

Many groups have called for change

In 2004, a national coalition of diverse organizations facilitated by the Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario published the "Joint Statement on Physical Punishment of Children and Youth." Drawing on contemporary evidence, it draws attention to the risks posed by physical punishment and calls instead for positive approaches to discipline. It has been endorsed by 615 organizations from across Canada, including community organizations, cultural and religious groups, Indigenous groups, school boards, the Canadian Mental Health Association and the Canadian Medical Association.

Yet, the law permitting the use of physical punishment in Canada prevails.

What will it take to stop hitting our kids?

All the evidence we need to stop hitting our children is already available. Clearly, change is going to take something more. For one thing, it will require a critical examination of the cultural and religious norms and values that perpetuate this behaviour even in the face of overwhelming evidence documenting its harms. And it will require reflection on our collective tacit acceptance of violence against children.

Until that happens, and until the normalization and even justification of violence against children is called out by Canadians, our children will be at risk.

Valerie Michaelson is a post-doctoral fellow in the department of public health sciences and school of religion at Queen's University, Ontario.

This article was first published at The Conversation Canada: theconversation.com/ca.Zola Suite is a comprehensive, cloud-based legal practice management application that offers an integrated case management, billing, accounting, and contact management platform with built in email. State Bar of Wisconsin members receive a 15% subscription discount for up to five (5) users per account.

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To learn more about our Dispute Resolution Team and the services we offer, please contact Mike Crooks at mcrooks@vonbriesen.com or Ben Stern at bstern@vonbriesen.com.

www.vonbriesen.comSri Lanka has become the centre of attraction in the Asian political scene with the islands government struggling to survive sans the majority in parliament.



The latest we hear of is the attempt planned by President Maithripala Sirisena to take a vote on Wednesday (December 5) to oust Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa because he doesnt have the support of the majority in parliament.



If one thing is clear about the present set of Sri Lankan politicians, who are in the news, except Ranil Wickremesinghe, the majority are poor decision makers. President Sirisena initially allowing Wickremesinghe to function beyond the mandate of his premiership amounted to be his own decision making. This, Sirisena said, was due to Wickremesinghe offering his support to him to become the President, in 2015. Then Sirisena removed Wickremesinghe and appointed Mahinda Rajapaksa as premier, but that too backfired because the majority in parliament dont recognise him (Rajapaksa) nor support him. Now its evident that Sirisenas choices made in politics, especially as President, are failures. Given the present scenario the UNP is on a good wicket. Despite squabbles within the UNP the support within is still for Wickremesinghe to be the Prime Ministerial candidate from the party. It is also reported that the grand old party has decided to back their experienced leaders despite attempts made by the young brigade now and then to have a new leader for the party.



Need of an experienced Leader



The present environment in the UNP is similar to how things were back in the early 1990s. Country President and part leader J.R Jayewardene had retired and was forced to decide between Ranasinghe Premadasa, Gamini Dissanayake and Lalith Athulathmudali as UNPs new leader. Its said that Jayewardene fancied Dissanayake or Athulathmudali to be his successor. But the turmoil in the country made him realize that whoever came to the hot seat as the party leader wouldnt last long. Thats why he handed over the party leaders post to Premadasa; his thinking being that the new UNP Leader would mentally burn out or physically perish due to the political heat that existed. He knew that survival for whoever who came to power after this challenging period would be easier. This was conveyed to this writer some years ago by veteran political writer the late Prasad Gunawardene.

On the other hand people have now begun to question the pedigree of the lawmakers



Right now the political inferno within the island suggests in no uncertain terms that one needs an experienced leader at the helm; whether its the UNP or the Government. From a totally helpless situation Wickremesinghe sees the pendulum swinging his way due to the developments within the Parliament to remove Rajapaksa from the post of Prime Minister. These developments give strength to Wickremesinghes resolve.



Wickremesinghe has recently affirmed that the legislature has the power to decide on a course of action to stabilise the country as its the institute which exercises the peoples sovereignty. He has said that the power vested in the parliament according to the 19th Amendment to the Constitution affords for that.



At present there are many peaceful protest campaigns being staged in the country in support of an alternative force to rule this nation. One such campaign is Rise for Justice which is taking place in Town Hall.



Most of these efforts also highlight the fact that Wickremesinghe was removed in an unjust manner. Initially Wickremesinghe continued to call himself Prime Minister despite Rajapaksa being officially appointed for this post by Sirisena at a swearing in ceremony. But as the days rolled by, even Wickremesinghes press releases made references to him only as UNP Leader.



Wickremesinghe has not shelved his dreams to be the Prime Minister of the country. There are reports that three heavy weights in Sri Lankan politics, Rajapaksa, Sirisena and Wickremesinghe, have agreed to do whatever is possible to restore the political crisis. But deep within Wickremesinghe lies that burning ambition to be in charge of the admin machine that accounts for the countrys governance, for a long time. As with Wickremesinghe his vision to be at the helm, regardless of whether its premiership or party leader, is till eternity.



The criticism within the UNP towards Wickremesinghe has died down a bit. The big wigs in the party like Kabir Hashim, Sajith Premadasa and Navin Dissanayake have backed their leader to the hilt. The UNP led by Wickremesinghe sees the support of the TNA and JVP during this political impasse. UNP Chairman Hashim stated recently that Wickremesinghe is the party partys nominee for the post of Prime Minister.



The two no-confidence motions passed in parliament suggests that there is great danger of the Year 2019 Budget not being passed. A government cant survive for long depending on a Vote on Account to release the funds for its expenses. There must be a stable government with the support of the majority which can pass any bill within parliament.



Grabbing power



As the countdown for the festive season has begun in December, so do the days before the Supreme Court gives the final verdict regarding the case filed to lift the suspension of parliament. The Supreme Court these days is hearing arguments regarding the interim order it issued which stayed the decision taken by Sirisena to prorogue parliament.



As the struggle for power continues in Sri Lanka it is important to note a comment made by the Prime Minister appointed by President Sirisena, Mahinda Rajapaksa, in an interview the latter gave the Daily Mirror. He has refused to accept that he is indulging in back-door politics. He has said that there is nothing called back-door politics and front-door politics and that power must be grabbed at the first instance one sees an opportunity.

From a totally helpless situation Wickremesinghe sees the pendulum swinging his way due to the developments within the Parliament to remove Rajapaksa from the post of Prime Minister



Whichever waiting games Sirisena plays till 2020, Wickremesignhe and Rajapaksa have once again emerged as the two choices we have if there comes an election to chose a country President.



We are living during times when we cant find totally clean and able leaders who are willing to serve the country. They all have their faults. Rajapaksa has so many cases against him while Wickremesinghe has been critisised for his neoliberal ideas which his critics say have not worked for the country.



On the other hand people have now begun to question the pedigree of the lawmakers. Two politicians were subject to great embarrassment at the recent 40th National Youth Awards ceremony when two recipients of awards refused to shake hands and receive their awards from the duo. This is what would continue to happen in the future because the people have the right to reject our lawmakers as much as they have the ability to bring them to power.Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC) Leader and Parliamentarian Arumugam Thondaman today requested all plantation workers to join in an indefinite strike from tomorrow.

He said this after a meeting with the senior management of plantation companies today. He said the employers did not agree with their request to increase their daily wages to Rs. 1000.

MP Thondaman said they held a discussion with former Finance Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa earlier. During the discussion, the finance ministry had suggested providing loans with zero interests to workers. However, this proposal was also turned down by the Plantation companies. (Indika Sri Aravinda) 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.Bayhorse Silver Inc., a junior natural resource company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of natural resource properties. It explores for silver, gold, zinc, copper, antimony, and other metals. The company holds a 100% interest in the Bayhorse Silver Mine Property located in Baker County, Oregon. It also holds an option agreement to acquire an 80% interest in the Brandywine project located in British Colombia. The company was formerly known as Kent Exploration Inc. and changed its name to Bayhorse Silver Inc. in December 2013. Bayhorse Silver Inc. was incorporated in 2004 and is headquartered in Burnaby, Canada.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of TransUnion: Accupost Corporation, AppLock Limited, Auditz, Autolocator (Pty) Ltd., Beheer en Beleggingsmaatchapij Stivaco B.V., CIFIN S.A.S, [email protected] plc, Callcredit Data Solutions Limited, Callcredit Information, Callcredit Lead Generation Limited, Callcredit Marketing Ltd., Callcredit Public Sector Limited, Callcredit Spain S.L.U, Centro de Informacion y Estudios Estrategicos Empresariales S.A., Centro de Operaciones Servicios de Informacion Estrategica S.A., CheckMend Ltd., Coactiva Limited, Collection Africa Ltd., Confirma Sistemas de Informacion S.L., Credit Bureau of Carmel & Pebble Beach Inc., Credit Information Services Limited, Credit Information Systems Company Limited, Credit Reference Bureau (Holdings) Limited, Credit Reference Bureau Africa (Pty) Ltd., Credit Reference Bureau Africa Ltd., Credit Reporting Services Limited, Credit Retriever LLC, Crivo, Crown Acquisition BidCo Ltd., Crown Acquisition Consumer Ltd., Crown Acquisition MidCo Ltd., Crown Acquisition MidCo. 2 Ltd., Crown Acquisition TopCo. Ltd., DMWSL 617 Ltd., DMWSL 618 Ltd., DMWSL 619 Ltd., DMWSL 620 Ltd., DataLink Services, Datalink Services Inc., Decision Systems Inc., DecisionMetrics Limited, Diversified Data Development Corporation, Drivers History Inc., Drivers History Information Sales LLC, FT Holdings Inc., FactorTrust, FactorTrust Inc., GMAP Japan KK, GMAP Marketing Consulting Shangahi Co. Ltd, Healthcare Payment Specialists, INSDEC LLC, IS Resources Inc., Immobilise.com Limited, L2C Inc., L2C Inc., Link Marketing Inc., Link2credit Inc., Moussoro Participacoes Ltda., RTech, RTech Healthcare Revenue Technologies Inc., Recipero, Recipero Inc., Recipero Limited, Regional Data Systems Limited, RentPort, Rubixis, Rubixis Inc., Rubixis Technologies Private Limited, STS Vail Beheeren Administracion S. DE. R.L. DE C.V., Servicios y Asesoria S CO BC SA de CV, Signal, Soluciones de Informatica de Centroamerica (SICE) S.A., Source USA Insurance Agency Inc., Tenant ID Limited, Title Insurance Services Corporation, Trans Union Central America S.A., Trans Union Chile S.A., Trans Union Content Solutions LLC, Trans Union Costa Rica S.A., Trans Union Guatemala S.A., Trans Union Honduras-Buro de Credito S.A., Trans Union International Inc., Trans Union LLC, Trans Union Nicaragua S.A., Trans Union Real Estate Services Inc., Trans Union Software Services Private Limited, Trans Union de Puerto Rico Inc., Trans Union of Canada Inc., TransUnion (Mauritius) Limited, TransUnion (Proprietary) Ltd., TransUnion Africa (Pty) Ltd., TransUnion Africa Holdings (Pty) Ltd., TransUnion Analytic and Decision Services (Pty) Ltd., TransUnion Asia Ltd., TransUnion Auto Information Solutions (Pty) Ltd., TransUnion Baltics UAB, TransUnion Brasil Sistemas em Informatica Ltda., TransUnion CIBIL Limited, TransUnion Colombia Ltda., TransUnion Consumer Solutions LLC, TransUnion Credit Bureau (Pty) Ltd., TransUnion Credit Bureau Namibia (Pty) Ltd., TransUnion Data Solutions LLC, TransUnion Digital LLC, TransUnion El Salvador S.A. de C.V., TransUnion Exchange LLC, TransUnion Financing Corporation, TransUnion Global Holdings LLC, TransUnion Global Holdings LP, TransUnion Global Technology Center LLP, TransUnion Healthcare Inc., TransUnion Holding Cyprus Ltd., TransUnion ITC (Pty) Ltd., TransUnion Information Group Limited, TransUnion Information Services Limited, TransUnion Information Solutions Inc., TransUnion Information Technology (Beijing) Co. Ltd., TransUnion Intelligence LLC, TransUnion Interactive Inc., TransUnion Intermediate Holdings Inc., TransUnion International Holdings LLC, TransUnion International UK Limited, TransUnion Kenya Limited, TransUnion Limited, TransUnion Ltd., TransUnion Marketing Solutions Inc., TransUnion Netherlands I B.V., TransUnion Netherlands II B.V., TransUnion Rental Screening Solutions Inc., TransUnion Reverse Exchange S de R.L. de C.V., TransUnion Risk Advisory Inc., TransUnion Risk and Alternative Data Solutions Inc., TransUnion Rwanda Limited, TransUnion S.A., TransUnion Soluciones de Informacion Chile SA, TransUnion Soluciones de Informacion S de R.L de C.V., TransUnion Teledata LLC, TransUnion UK Holdings Ltd., Tru Optik, TruSignal, TruSignal Inc., TrueLink, Trustev, Trustev Limited, Vail Holdings UK Ltd., Vail Systemen Groep B.V., Verifacts LLC, Visionary Systems Inc., Worthknowing Inc., eBureau, eBureau LLC, iovation Inc., iovation Ltd., and process benchmarking limited.Gildan Activewear Inc. manufactures and sells various apparel products in the United States, Canada, and internationally. It provides various activewear products, including T-shirts, fleece tops and bottoms, and sport shirts under the Gildan, Gildan Performance, Gildan Hammer, Comfort Colors, American Apparel, Anvil by Gildan, Alstyle, Prim + Preux, and GoldToe brands. The company also offers hosiery products comprising athletic; dress; and casual, liner, therapeutic, and workwear socks, as well as sheer panty hoses, tights, and leggings under the brands of Gildan, Under Armour, GoldToe, PowerSox, GT a GoldToe Brand, Silver Toe, Signature Gold by Goldtoe, Peds, MediPeds, Kushyfoot, Therapy Plus, All Pro, Secret, Silks, Secret Silky, and American Apparel. In addition, it provides men's and boys' underwear products, and ladies panties under the Gildan and Gildan Platinum brand names; and ladies' shapewear, intimates, and accessories under the Secret and Secret Silky brands. The company sells its products to wholesale distributors, screen printers, or embellishers, as well as to retailers and consumer brand companies. The company was formerly known as Textiles Gildan Inc. and changed its name to Gildan Activewear Inc. in March 1995. Gildan Activewear Inc. was founded in 1946 and is headquartered in Montreal, Canada.

Read MoreThe Police today released a photograph of 40-year-old Damitha Sagara Chandrasiri, the missing editor and scriptwriter of the Koombiyo teledrama and sought public assistance to locate him.

They said a friend of his had complained to the Police on October 29 saying that Mr. Chandrasiri, who was a resident of Senanayaka Mawatha, Vanniyankulama in Anuradhapura has been missing since October 24 from his boarding house in Nawala.

Police said police stations had been notified about the disappearance.

However, with no information being received about Mr. Chandrasiri, the police requested the public to inform the Welikada Police Station via 0112 862522 or the Welikada Police Station OIC on 071 8591650.

'Koombiyo' became a super hit in Sri Lanka overnight for its unique script and the captivating roles of the two main actors. (Darshana Sanjeewa)There is not enough analysis data for BlackRock Core Bond Trust.

4.3 Community Rank

Outperform Votes BlackRock Core Bond Trust has received 101 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.)

Underperform Votes BlackRock Core Bond Trust has received 59 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.)

Community Sentiment BlackRock Core Bond Trust has received 63.13% outperform votes from our community.

MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about BlackRock Core Bond Trust and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe BHK will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe BHK will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days.

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NextCantel Medical Corp. provides infection prevention and control products and services for the healthcare market. The company's Medical segment offers automated endoscope reprocessing systems; disinfectants and sterilants; detergents; leak testing and manual cleaning products; storage cabinets and transport systems; manual cleaning products; endoscope process tracking products; other consumables, accessories, and supplies for use in disinfect rigid endoscopes, flexible endoscopes, and other instrumentation; and technical maintenance services. Its Life Sciences segment provides dialysis water purification and bicarbonate mixing systems; hollow fiber filters, and other filtration and separation products; liquid disinfectants and cold sterilization products; dry fog products; room temperature sterilization equipment and services; and clean-room certification and decontamination services for the dialysis and other healthcare, research laboratories, food and beverage, and commercial industrial customers, as well as microbiological testing services. The company's Dental segment offers hand and powered dental instruments, instrument reprocessing and sterility assurance products, towels, bibs, tray liners, sponges, nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation equipment and related single-use disposable nasal masks, face masks, and shields. It also provides hand sanitizers, germicidal wipes, disinfectants, surface disinfectants, waterline treatment products, saliva ejectors, evacuator tips, plastic cups, prophy angles, and prophy paste. The company's Dialysis segment provides hemodialysis concentrates and other ancillary supplies; medical device reprocessing systems; and sterilants and disinfectants. The company sells its products through its direct distribution network in the United States; and directly or under various third-party distribution agreements internationally. Cantel Medical Corp. was founded in 1963 and is headquartered in Little Falls, New Jersey.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of Carnival Co. &: 1972 Productions Inc., 6348 Equipment LLC, A.C.N. 098 290 834 Pty. Ltd., A.J. Juneau Dock LLC, AIDA Kundencenter GmbH, Adventure Island Ltd., Air-Sea Holiday GmbH, Alaska Hotel Properties LLC, Barcelona Cruise Terminal SLU, Bay Island Cruise Port S.A., Belize Cruise Terminal Limited, CC U.S. Ventures Inc., CCL Gifts LLC, CSSC Carnival Italy Cruise Investment S.r.L, Carnival (UK) Limited, Carnival Bahamas FC Limited, Carnival Bahamas Holdings Limited, Carnival Corporation & plc Asia Pte. Ltd., Carnival Corporation Hong Kong Limited, Carnival Corporation Korea Ltd., Carnival Corporation Ports Group Japan KK, Carnival Finance LLC, Carnival Grand Bahama Investment Limited, Carnival Investments Limited, Carnival Japan Inc., Carnival License Holdings Limited, Carnival Maritime GmbH, Carnival North America LLC, Carnival Port Holdings Limited, Carnival Ports Inc., Carnival Support Services India Private Limited, Carnival Technical Services (UK) Limited, Carnival Technical Services Finland Limited, Carnival Technical Services GmbH, Carnival Technical Services Inc., Carnival Vanuatu Limited, Costa Crociere PTE Ltd., Costa Crociere S.p.A., Costa Cruceros S.A., Costa Cruise Lines Inc., Costa Cruise Lines UK Limited, Costa Cruises Shipping Services (Shanghai) Company Limited, Costa Cruises Travel Agency (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Costa Cruzeiros Agencia Maritima e Turismo Ltda., Costa Group Digital & Strategic Services GmbH, Costa International B.V., Costa Kreuzfahrten GmbH, Cozumel Cruise Terminal S.A. de C.V., Creative Travel Lab Ltd., Cruise Ships Catering & Services International N.V., Cruise Terminal Services S.A. de C.V., Cruiseport Curacao C.V., D.R. Cruise Port Ltd., Ecospray Technologies S.r.L., F.P.M. SAS, F.P.P. SAS, Fleet Maritime Services (Bermuda) Limited, Fleet Maritime Services Holdings (Bermuda) Limited, Fleet Maritime Services International Limited, GXI LLC, Gibs Inc., Global Experience Innovators Inc., Global Fine Arts Inc., Global Shipping Service (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Grand Cruise Shipping Unipessoal LdA, Grand Turk Cruise Center Ltd., HAL Antillen N.V., HAL Beheer B.V., HAL Cruises Limited, HAL Maritime Ltd., HAL Nederland N.V., HAL Properties Limited, HAL Services B.V., HSE Hamburg School of Entertainment GmbH, Holding Division Iberocruceros SLU, Holland America Line Inc., Holland America Line N.V., Holland America Line Paymaster of Washington LLC, Holland America Line U.S.A. Inc., Ibero Cruzeiros Ltda., Iberocruceros SLU, Information Assistance Corporation, International Cruise Services S.A. de C.V., International Leisure Travel Inc., International Maritime Recruitment Agency S.A. de C.V., Milestone N.V., Navitrans S.R.L., Ocean Bahamas Innovation Ltd., Ocean Medallion Fulfillment Ltd., Operadora Catalina S.r.L., P&O Princess American Holdings, P&O Princess Cruises International Limited, P&O Princess Cruises Pension Trustee Limited, P&O Properties (California) Inc., P&O Travel Limited, Prestige Cruises Management S.A.M., Prestige Cruises N.V., Princess Bermuda Holdings Ltd., Princess Cays Ltd., Princess Cruise Corporation Inc., Princess Cruise Lines Ltd., Princess Cruises and Tours Inc., Princess U.S. Holdings Inc., RCT Maintenance & Related Services S.A., RCT Pilots & Related Services S.A., RCT Security & Related Services S.A., Roatan Cruise Terminal S.A. de C.V., Royal Hyway Tours Inc., Santa Cruz Terminal S.L., SeaVacations Limited, SeaVacations UK Limited, Seabourn Cruise Line Limited, Shanghai Coast Cruise Consulting Co. Lda, Ship Care (Bahamas) Limited, Sitmar Cruises Inc., Spanish Cruise Services N.V., Sunshine Shipping Corporation Ltd., T&T International Inc., Tour Alaska LLC, Transnational Services Corporation, Trident Insurance Company Ltd., Westmark Hotels Inc., Westmark Hotels of Canada Ltd., Westours Motor Coaches LLC, Wind Surf Limited, and World Leading Cruise Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd..CEMEX SAB de CV engages in the production, distribution, marketing, and sale of cement, ready-mix concrete, and aggregates. It operates though the following geographical segments: Mexico; United States; Europe; South, Central America and the Caribbean (SCA&C); Asia, Middle East and Africa (AMEA); and Others. The Europe segment covers United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, and Czech Republic, Poland and Latvia, as well as trading activities in Scandinavia, and Finland. The SCA&C segment includes Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Caribbean TCL, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Nicaragua, Jamaica, the Caribbean, El Salvador, and Guatemala. The EMEA segment comprises of Egypt, Israel, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates. The Others segment refers to the cement trade maritime operations, information technology solutions business, and other corporate entities as well as other minor subsidiaries with different lines of business. The company was founded by Lorenzo Zambrano Gutierrez in 1906 and is headquartered in San Pedro Garza Garcia, Mexico.

Read MoreSri Lanka actively participated in the first CIIE

At the opening ceremony of the first China International Import Expo (CIIE) that was just concluded, President Xi Jinping pointed out that holding the CIIE is Chinas major initiative to still widen market access to the rest of the world and that it demonstrates Chinas consistent position of supporting the multilateral trading system and promoting free trade.



Indeed, to uphold economic globalization and free trade, China actively applied to join the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and since its accession to the WTO, China has been a staunch supporter of the multilateral trading system, taking firm position against protectionism and actively promoted building a more open and inclusive world economy.



It can be said that from the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade to the WTO and up till now, with the joint efforts of all its members including China, the WTO has made significant contributions to promoting the liberalization and facilitation of trade and investment and has greatly boosted global trade development and economic growth.



Nevertheless, the world economy is going through profound adjustment and protectionism and unilateralism are resurging. Economic globalization faces headwinds and multilateralism and the system of free trade are under threat.



The WTO is facing three crises threatening its survival: first, it is about the WTOs dispute settlement mechanism. The Appellate Body of the mechanism has seven members initially but now there are only three of them. The appointment of the rest four is thwarted by individual members; second, individual members add tariffs, misusing the security exception clause in the WTO rules; third, a small subset of individual members adopts unilateral measures and ignore the WTOs multilateral rules.



This year marks the 40th anniversary of Chinas reform and opening-up. Over the past 40 years, it is the strong belief in reform and open economy that has brought up todays China. A country must keep pace with the times, and so are international organisations. The WTO is no exception. We need to re-examine its rules and regulations and duties, enabling it to continue to play an active role under the new historical conditions.



Thus, China firmly supports necessary reform of the WTO and meanwhile, we believe that reform should be in the right direction and taking the right approach. To this end, China has put forward three basic principles and five suggestions on the WTO reform.



Three basic principles

First, the WTO reform will preserve the core values of the multilateral trading system. We believe that non-discrimination and openness are the most important core values of the multilateral trading system. The WTO members should obey this while handling economic and trade relations with other members within the framework of multilateral rules.



Second, the WTO reform shall safeguard the development interests of developing members. The reform should provide developing members with flexibility and policy space needed for their economic development, contributing to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and narrowing the North-South gap.



Third, the WTO reform will follow the practice of decision-making by consensus. Reform is related to the future of the multilateral trading system. The choice of reform agenda and the final outcomes should be decided through consensus. The process shall be inclusive and open to all members, especially the developing ones.



Chinas suggestions for WTO reform

First, the reform should uphold the primacy of the multilateral trading system. The reform should reinforce the centrality of the multilateral trading system in international trade liberalization and facilitation. It cannot be confused with the so-called new concepts and new expressions and we cannot deny the authority of the multilateral trading system.



Second, the priority of the reform is to address the key issues that threaten the survival of the WTO. The reform should rein in actions of unilateralism and protectionism with the strings of the WTO rules. It should solve urgent problems, including the appointment blockage of Appellate Body members as soon as possible and ensure the smooth functioning of all aspects of the WTO.



Third, the reform should address the imbalance of trade rules and respond to the latest developments of our time. The reform should address the excessive agricultural subsidies of some developed members and prevent abuse of trade remedy measures. Meanwhile, the reform should promote the WTO rules to keep pace with the times and respond to the needs of the economic reality of the 21st century.



Fourth, the reform should safeguard the special and differential treatment for developing members. China is the largest developing country in the world and is willing to take up commitments commensurate with its level of development and economic capability. However, China will never agree to be deprived of its entitlement to special and differential treatment as a developing member.



Fifth, the reform should respect members development models. China opposes some members who deny the diversity of development models and discriminate against different ones. China disagrees on incorporating the development model issue into the WTO reform agenda.



It is noteworthy that all the principles and suggestions are not intended for serving Chinas own interests. They are put forward so that all the WTO members could work together to uphold the multilateral trading system, promote the WTO to develop in a fairer, more open, inclusive, efficient and authoritative way and enable it to play a more significant role in global governance.



China firmly observes and upholds the WTO rules and supports the multilateral trading system that is open, transparent, inclusive and non-discriminatory. China has participated in all aspects of the WTO work, made its voice heard and contributed its own proposals on improving global economic governance.



China is an active participant, strong supporter and major contributor in the multilateral trading system. And while actively developing itself, China also pursues an open strategy of mutual benefit and win-win results and is willing to offer more public goods to the international community.



China proposes the Belt and Road Initiative, openly supports globalization and strives to make the pie of the global economy bigger in helping countries to achieve their own development goals.



To demonstrate our firm determination to support economic globalization, China has just held the first CIIE in Shanghai. The CIIE has not only provided countries with new opportunities to expand exports to China but also established a platform for them to carry out trade activities and share business opportunities with each other. This clearly shows Chinas responsibility as a major nation in actively promoting economic globalization.



Sri Lanka actively participated in the first CIIE. There are altogether six Sri Lankan government organisations taking part in the National Pavilion and 29 quality companies in the Business Exhibition.



Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), which organised Sri Lankas participation in the CIIE, indicates that Sri Lankas participation this time was a huge success with fruitful results.



The EDB thanked China for providing Sri Lanka with such a broad cooperation platform and looks forward to participate in the next CIIE. Hence, it can be seen that an open world economy, which China upholds, has benefited not only itself but also the whole world. Meanwhile, it has brought tangible benefits to Sri Lanka.



Both China and Sri Lanka are developing countries, so we could better understand the importance of an open, inclusive and fair multilateral trading system to our own development and the necessity of the WTO reform under the current situation of rising unilateralism and protectionism.



Located at the centre of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka has acted as a regional trade centre since ancient times. Sri Lanka has not only played its role as a central node in promoting global trade development but also benefited a lot from the free trading system.



The biggest common issue facing China and Sri Lanka, both as developing members in the WTO, is development which is the core mission of the WTO. Currently, some developed members question the necessity of special and differential treatment on the pretext of significant economic development of some developing members. This runs counter to the WTO rules and violates the interests of the vast majority of developing members.



Holding the same expectation for a more open and inclusive multilateral trading system, China is willing to work together with Sri Lanka in upholding the unity and development space of developing members and making our concerns be fully considered and properly dealt with.



China and Sri Lanka are traditionally friendly neighbours. In history, Master Fa Xian came to Sri Lanka to learn Buddhism, Zheng He Fleet visited Sri Lanka five times, and our two nations signed the famous Rubber-Rice Pact; at present, the Belt and Road Initiative has opened up new channels for our economic and trade cooperation and people-to-people contacts and the China International Import Expo offers the whole world, including Sri Lanka, a new trade sharing platform; in the future, with the deepening of friendship and closer economic and trade ties between our two countries, we will definitely strengthen cooperation in the global governance system including the WTO, defend our common interests and promote building a community with shared future for China and Sri Lanka.



Economic globalization and the multilateral trading system are irreversible trend of history, independent of peoples will. Chinas economic growth over the past 40 years has been achieved with a commitment to opening-up. In the same vein, high-quality development of Chinas economy in the future can only be guaranteed with greater openness. In the meantime, we believe that Sri Lankas development must also be rooted in an open and inclusive multilateral trading system and global economic system.



China looks forward to working with Sri Lanka to share opportunities and jointly meet challenges. Together, let us promote the WTO reform to be fairer, more open, inclusive, efficient and beneficial for all, make economies of the world interconnected, build a higher-level open world economy and deliver the benefits of free trade to every corner of the world.

(Cheng Xueyuan is Ambassador of China in Colombo)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.Deutsche BArse AG operates as an exchange organization in Europe, the United States, and the Asia-Pacific. The company operates through seven segments: Eurex (Financial Derivatives), EEX (Commodities), 360T (Foreign Exchange), Xetra (Cash Equities), Clearstream (Post-Trading), IFS (Investment Fund Services), and Qontigo (index and analytics business). The company engages in the electronic trading of derivatives, electricity and gas products, emission rights, and foreign exchange; operating of Eurex Repo over the counter (OTC) trading platform and electronic clearing architecture; and operating as a central counterparty for on-and-off exchange derivatives, repo transactions, and OTC and exchange-traded derivatives. It also operates in the cash market through Xetra, BArse Frankfurt, and Tradegate trading venues; operates as a central counterparty for equities and bonds; and provides listing services. In addition, the company offers custody and settlement services for securities; investment fund services; global securities financing services; and global securities finance and collateral management, as well as secured money, market transaction, and repos and securities lending transaction services. Further, it develops and markets indices, as well as portfolio management and risk analysis software; markets licenses for trading and market signals; provides technology and reporting solutions for external customers; and offers link-up of trading participants. Deutsche BArse AG was founded in 1585 and is headquartered in Eschborn, Germany.

Read MoreDTE Energy Co. operates as a diversified energy company, which engages in the provision of electricity and natural gas sales, distribution and storage services. It operates through the following segments: Electric, Gas, Non-Utility Operations, and Corporate & Other. The Electric segment engages in the generation, purchase, distribution and sale of electricity to residential, commercial and industrial customers in south-eastern Michigan. The Gas segment engages in the purchase, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of natural gas to residential, commercial and industrial customers throughout Michigan and the sale of storage and transportation capacity. The Non-Utility Operations segment engages in gas storage and pipelines, power and industrial projects, and energy trading. The Corporate & Other includes various holding company activities, holds certain non-utility debt, and holds energy-related investments. The company was founded in January 1995 and is headquartered in Detroit, MI.

Read More(Colombo) AFP: Sri Lanka on Saturday slashed a tax on sugary drinks in a controversial reversal of an anti-diabetes policy that attracted immediate criticism.

The finance ministry ordered an immediate 40 percent reduction in the levy as part of a package of tax cuts launched by the disputed government to win over public opinion as a bitter power struggle intensifies. But health campaigners and a former minister condemned the move as damaging the fight against obesity and diabetes among young people.

Sri Lanka has been gripped by a constitutional showdown between President Maithripala Sirisena and his sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who refuses to step down.



Sirisenas nominee for Prime Minister, Mahinda Rajapaksa has been making populists moves to win support for his government which has been recognised only by China and Burundi.



The lower sugar tax came on top of reductions in fuel prices and income taxes this week.



Wickremesinghes administration, which was toppled on October 26, had introduced the sweet tax -- 50 cents on every gram of sugar in fizzy and fruit drinks -- but the rate was slashed to 30 cents from Saturday.



The Health Ministry has said that 10 percent of the countrys 21 million population is affected by diabetes and another 20 percent were at risk of developing the condition.



Health lobbyist Dhanya Wijesuriya took to twitter to slam the authorities for making sugary drinks cheaper.



This is insane, Wijesuriya said of the decision. How self serving. No vision, he added.



Former Health Minister Rajitha Senaratne described the tax cut as irresponsible.



There was no immediate comment from Sirisena who last year warned international beverage makers that he would increase taxes unless they reduced sugar in their products.Texas Pacific Land Corp. operates as a landowner in the State of Texas. Its surface and royalty ownership allow revenue generation through the entire value chain of oil and gas development, including through fixed fee payments for use of the firm's land, revenue for sales of materials used in the construction of infrastructure, providing sourced water and treated produced water, revenue from its oil and gas royalty interests, and revenues related to saltwater disposal on land. The company also generates revenue from pipeline, power line and utility easements, commercial leases, material sales and seismic and temporary permits related to a variety of land uses including midstream infrastructure projects and hydrocarbon processing facilities. The company operates through following segment: Land and Resource Management and Water Services and Operations. The Land and Resource Management segment focuses on managing oil and gas royalty interest and surface. The Water Services and Operations segment offers operators an unparalleled breadth of service across the majority of the Permian Basin. The company was founded in April 2020 and is headquartered in Dallas, TX.

Read MoreKapStone Paper and Packaging Corporation produces and sells a range of containerboards, corrugated products, and specialty paper products in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Paper and Packaging, and Distribution. The Paper and Packaging segment offers containerboards consisting of linerboard and corrugated medium to manufacture corrugated containers for packaging products; and corrugated products. It also offers specialty paper products, including kraft paper, such as multiwall paper used to produce bags for agricultural products, pet food, baking products, cement and chemicals; specialty products comprising shingle wraps, end caps, roll wraps, and dunnage bags; and lightweight paper. In addition, this segment provides saturating kraft paper under the Durasorb trade name for use in construction, electronics manufacturing, and furniture manufacturing industries; and unbleached folding carton board under the Kraftpak trade name to integrated and independent converters in the folding carton industry. The Distribution segment distributes corrugated and other specialty packaging products consisting of stretch films, void fills, carton sealing tapes, and other specialty tapes. KapStone Paper and Packaging Corporation was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois.

Read MoreThe following companies are subsidiares of Hyatt Hotels: CHANCELLOR STREET CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION INC., GLENDALE HOTEL PROPERTIES L.L.C., HT-SEATTLE HOLDINGS LLC, 1379919 ALBERTA INC., 319168 ONTARIO LIMITED, 3385434 CANADA INC., ADMINISTRACION DE PERSONAL ANDARES S. DE R.L. DE C.V., AIC HOLDING CO., AIRPORT PLAZA ASSOCIATES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, AIRPORT PLAZA HOTEL LLC, AIRPORT PLAZA OFFICE BUILDING LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, AMERISUITES FRANCHISING L.L.C., ARANCIA LIMITED, ARUBA BEACHFRONT RESORTS LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, ARUBA BEACHFRONT RESORTS N.V., ASIA HOSPITALITY INC., ASIA HOSPITALITY INVESTORS B.V., ASIAN HOTEL N.V., ATRIUM HOTEL L.L.C., AUSTIN RESORT BEVERAGE LLC, AmeriSuites Hotel, BAKU HOTEL COMPANY - AZERI, BAKU HOTEL COMPANY - CAYMAN, BASTROP MARKETING L.L.C., BAY II INVESTOR INC., BELLEVUE ASSOCIATES, BH PLAZA LLC, BRE/AMERISUITES PROPERTIES L.L.C., BRE/AMERISUITES TXNC GP L.L.C., BRE/AMERISUITES TXNC PROPERTIES L.P., BURVAN HOTEL ASSOCIATES, CAL-HARBOR SO. PIER URBAN RENEWAL ASSOCIATES L.P., CELAYA RESORTS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., CHESAPEAKE COMMUNITIES LLC, CHESAPEAKE RESORT LLC, CIUDAD DEL CARMEN DIAMANTE RESORT S. DE R.L. DE C.V, COAST BEACH L.L.C., COMPAGNIE HOTELIERE DE LAGON BLEU, CPM SEATTLE HOTELS L.L.C., CRW INVESTMENT LLC, CTR INTEREST HOLDCO INC., DALLAS REGENCY LLC, DENVER DOWNTOWN HOTEL PARTNERS LLC, DESARROLLADORA HOTELERA ACUEDUCTO S. DE R.L. DE C.V., DH BEVERAGE LLC, DIAMANTE RESORT LA PAZ S. DE R.L. DE C.V., DISTRICT HOTEL PARTNERS LLC, EXHALE ENTERPRISES GIFT SERVICES COMPANY, EXHALE ENTERPRISES II L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES III INC., EXHALE ENTERPRISES IV L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES V L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES VIII INC., EXHALE ENTERPRISES X INC., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XII L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XIV L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XIX L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XV L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XV TCI LTD., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XVI L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XVII L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XVIII L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XX L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXI INC., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXIV L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXV L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXVI L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXVII L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXVIII L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXXI L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXXII L.L.C., EXHALE ENTERPRISES XXXIII INC., FAN PIER L.L.C., FAR EAST HOTELS INC., G.E.H. PROPERTIES LIMITED, GAINEY DRIVE ASSOCIATES, GALAXY AEROSPACE COMPANY LLC, GHE HOLDINGS LIMITED, GRAND HYATT BERLIN GMBH, GRAND HYATT DFW BEVERAGE LLC, GRAND HYATT SAN ANTONIO L.L.C., GRAND HYATT SF L.L.C., GRAND RIVERWALK BEVERAGE LLC, GRAND TORONTO CORP., GRAND TORONTO VENTURE L.P., GREENWICH HOTEL LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, H.E. ATLANTA CENTENNIAL PARK HOLDINGS L.L.C., H.E. AUSTIN L.L.C., H.E. BERMUDA L.L.C., H.E. CAP CANA L.L.C., H.E. DRISKILL LLC, H.E. GRAND CYPRESS L.L.C., H.E. IRVINE L.L.C., H.E. KANSAS CITY L.L.C., H.E. LENOX L.L.C., H.E. NASHVILLE L.L.C., H.E. NEWPORT L.L.C., H.E. ORLANDO L.L.C., H.E. PHILADELPHIA HC HOLDINGS L.L.C., H.E. PHILADELPHIA HC HOTEL L.L.C., H.E. PHILADELPHIA HC PARKING L.L.C., H.E. PHILADELPHIA HC RETAIL L.L.C., H.E. PHILADELPHIA SANSOM L.L.C., H.E. PORTLAND HC L.L.C., H.E. PORTLAND L.L.C., H.E. PROPERTIES HOLDING L.L.C., H.E. PROPERTIES L.L.C., H.E. SAN ANTONIO I L.L.C., H.E. SAN ANTONIO L.L.C., H.E. TUCSON HOLDINGS L.L.C., H.E. TUCSON JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., H.E. TUCSON JV L.L.C., H.E. TUCSON OWNER L.L.C., HAPP INVESTOR LTD., HARBORSIDE HOTEL LLC, HARBORSIDE LAND LLC, HC PORTLAND JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HC ROYAL PALMS L.L.C., HCV CINCINNATI HOTEL L.L.C., HE ORLANDO HOTEL LLC, HGP (TRAVEL) LIMITED, HH NASHVILLE HOLDINGS L.L.C., HH NASHVILLE JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HH PORTLAND L.L.C., HHMA BURLINGTON BEVERAGE L.L.C., HI HOLDINGS (SWITZERLAND) GMBH, HI HOLDINGS BAJA B.V., HI HOLDINGS BRAZIL S.A.R.L., HI HOLDINGS CELAYA B.V., HI HOLDINGS CIUDAD DEL CARMEN B.V., HI HOLDINGS CYPRUS LIMITED, HI HOLDINGS CYPRUS-INDIA LIMITED, HI HOLDINGS GUADALAJARA B.V., HI HOLDINGS HP CABO B.V., HI HOLDINGS HP TIJUANA HOTEL B.V., HI HOLDINGS KYOTO CO., HI HOLDINGS LA PAZ B.V., HI HOLDINGS LATIN AMERICA B.V., HI HOLDINGS NETHERLANDS B.V., HI HOLDINGS PLAYA B.V., HI HOLDINGS RIO S.A.R.L., HI HOLDINGS RIVIERA MAYA B.V., HI HOLDINGS VIENNA S.A.R.L., HI HOLDINGS ZURICH S.A.R.L., HI HOTEL ADVISORY SERVICES GMBH, HI HOTEL INVESTORS CYPRUS LIMITED, HIHCL AMSTERDAM B.V., HIHCL HP AMSTERDAM AIRPORT B.V., HIHCL HR AMSTERDAM B.V., HILP HOTEL SERVICE PROVIDER LLC, HOTEL AM BELVEDERE HOLDING GMBH, HOTEL AM BELVEDERE HOLDING GMBH & CO KG, HOTEL INVESTMENTS HOLDING CO LLC, HOTEL INVESTMENTS L.L.C., HOTEL INVESTORS I INC., HOTEL INVESTORS II INC., HOTEL PROJECT SYSTEMS PTE LTD, HOTEL SERVICES CIUDAD DEL CARMEN S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HOTELS CS CELAYA S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HP ATLANTA CENTENNIAL PARK JV LLC, HP AUSTIN L.L.C., HP BEVERAGE DALLAS DFW AIRPORT LLC, HP BEVERAGE SUGAR LAND LLC, HP BOSTON HOLDINGS L.L.C., HP GLENDALE JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HP GLENDALE L.L.C., HP INDIA HOLDINGS LIMITED, HP LAS VEGAS BEVERAGE L.L.C., HP M STREET L.L.C., HP ROUTE 46 TEXAS LLC, HP SAN FRANCISCO L.L.C., HP SAN JUAN L.L.C., HP TEN TEXAS LLC, HPHH ATLANTA L.L.C., HPHH DENVER L.L.C., HPHH SAN JOSE JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HPHH SAN JOSE L.L.C., HQ CHESAPEAKE LLC, HR LOST PINES RESORT LLC, HR MC HOTEL COMPANY S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HR MC SERVICES II S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HR MC SERVICES S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HRHC LLC, HT- WAILEA LLC, HT-AVENDRA GROUP HOLDINGS L.L.C., HT-AVENDRA L.L.C., HT-CHESAPEAKE COMMUNITIES INC., HT-CHESAPEAKE RESORT INC., HT-HOTEL EQUITIES INC., HT-HUNTINGTON BEACH INC., HT-JERSEY PIER INC., HT-JERSEY PIER L.P., HT-JERSEY PIER LLC, HT-LONG BEACH L.L.C., HT-MIAMI BEACH L.L.C., HT-PARK 57 INC., HT-SEATTLE LLC, HT-SIERRA L.L.C., HT-VANCOUVER INC., HTLB L.L.C., HTS - NS L.L.C., HTS - NY L.L.C., HTS-ASPEN L.L.C., HTS-BC INC., HTS-INVESTMENT L L.C., HTSF L.L.C., HTW BEVERAGE LLC, HY LONG BEACH HOTEL LLC, HYATT (BARBADOS) CORPORATION, HYATT (JAPAN) CO. LTD., HYATT (THAILAND) LIMITED, HYATT ARUBA N.V., HYATT ASIA PACIFIC HOLDINGS LIMITED, HYATT AUSTRALIA HOTEL MANAGEMENT PTY LIMITED, HYATT AUSTRIA GMBH, HYATT BEACH FRONT N.V., HYATT BORNEO MANAGEMENT SERVICES LIMITED, HYATT BRITANNIA CORPORATION LTD., HYATT CC OFFICE CORP., HYATT CHAIN SERVICES LIMITED, HYATT CRYSTAL CITY LLC., HYATT CURACAO N.V., HYATT DISASTER RELIEF FUND, HYATT DO BRASIL PARTICIPACOES LTDA, HYATT EQUITIES L.L.C., HYATT FOREIGN EMPLOYMENT SERVICES INC., HYATT FRANCHISING CANADA CORP., HYATT FRANCHISING L.L.C., HYATT FRANCHISING LATIN AMERICA L.L.C., HYATT FULFILLMENT OF MARYLAND INC., HYATT GLOBAL SERVICES INC., HYATT GTLD L.L.C., HYATT HOC INC., HYATT HOLDINGS (UK) LIMITED, HYATT HOSPITALITY SERVICES L.L.C., HYATT HOTEL MANAGEMENT LIMITED, HYATT HOTELS CONSULTANCY SERVICES ASIA PACIFIC LIMITED, HYATT HOTELS CORPORATION OF KANSAS, HYATT HOTELS CORPORATION OF MARYLAND, HYATT HOTELS FOUNDATION, HYATT HOTELS MANAGEMENT CORPORATION, HYATT HOTELS OF CANADA INC., HYATT HOTELS OF FLORIDA INC., HYATT HOTELS OF PUERTO RICO INC., HYATT HOUSE CANADA INC., HYATT HOUSE FRANCHISING L.L.C., HYATT HOUSE HOTEL HOLDING COMPANY L.L.C., HYATT INDIA CONSULTANCY PRIVATE LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL (ASIA) LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL (EUROPE AFRICA MIDDLE EAST) LLC, HYATT INTERNATIONAL - JAPAN LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL - SOUTHWEST ASIA LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL -ASIA PACIFIC LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL -SEA (PTE) LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION, HYATT INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS CO., HYATT INTERNATIONAL HOTEL MANAGEMENT (BEIJING) CO. LTD., HYATT INTERNATIONAL MILAN L.L.C., HYATT INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT (BEIJING) CO. LTD., HYATT INTERNATIONAL TECHNICAL SERVICES INC., HYATT JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HYATT LACSA SERVICES INC., HYATT LOUISIANA L.L.C., HYATT MAINZ GMBH, HYATT MARKETING SERVICES INC., HYATT MARKETING SERVICES NIGERIA COMPANY LIMITED, HYATT MINNEAPOLIS LLC, HYATT MINORITY INVESTMENTS INC., HYATT MSS L.L.C., HYATT NORTH AMERICA MANAGEMENT SERVICES INC., HYATT OF AUSTRALIA LIMITED, HYATT OF BAJA S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HYATT OF CHINA LIMITED, HYATT OF FRANCE S.A.R.L., HYATT OF GUAM LIMITED, HYATT OF ITALY S.R.L., HYATT OF LATIN AMERICA AND CARIBBEAN L.L.C., HYATT OF LATIN AMERICA S.A. DE C.V., HYATT OF MACAU LIMITED, HYATT OF MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., HYATT OF PHILIPPINES LIMITED, HYATT PARTNERSHIP INTERESTS L.L.C., HYATT PLACE ANNE ARUNDEL BEVERAGE INC., HYATT PLACE CANADA CORPORATION, HYATT PLACE FRANCHISING L.L.C., HYATT PLACE OF MARYLAND INC., HYATT REGENCY COLOGNE GMBH, HYATT REGENCY CORPORATION PTY. LIMITED, HYATT SERVICES AUSTRALIA PTY LIMITED, HYATT SERVICES CANADA INC., HYATT SERVICES CARIBBEAN L.L.C., HYATT SERVICES GMBH, HYATT SERVICES INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED, HYATT SHARED SERVICE CENTER L.L.C., HYATT TRINIDAD LIMITED, HYCANADA INC., HYCARD INC., HYSTAR L.L.C., Hyatt Corporation, INFORMATION SERVICES LIMITED, INTERNATIONAL RESERVATIONS LIMITED, JOINT VENTURE ITALKYR CLOSED JOINT STOCK COMPANY, JUNIPER HOTELS PRIVATE LIMITED, KSA MANAGEMENT INC., KYOTO HOLDING CO., LHR-PARTNERS LTD., LORING PARK ASSOCIATES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, LOST PINES BEVERAGE LLC, MACAE PARTNERS S.A.R.L., MAHIMA HOLDINGS PRIVATE LIMITED, MARION RESERVATION CENTER L.L.C., MEXICO CITY HOTEL INVESTMENTS B.V., MILAN HOTEL INVESTMENTS B.V., MIRAVAL ARIZONA GUARANTOR LLC, MIRAVAL GROUP LLC, MIRAVAL RESORT ARIZONA HOLDINGS LLC, MIRAVAL RESORT ARIZONA LLC, MIRAVAL RESORT ARIZONA OPERATING CO. INC., MIRAVAL RESORT TUCSON LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS I LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS II LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS III LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS TRUST, MRG ATX BEVERAGE HOLDINGS LLC, MRG ATX HOLDINGS II LLC, MRG ATX HOLDINGS LLC, MRG ATX INVESTMENT LLC, MRG ATX MANAGEMENT I LLC, MRG ATX MANAGEMENT II LLC, MRG ATX OPERATIONS LLC, MRG CRW HOLDINGS LLC, MRG CRW MANAGEMENT I LLC, MRG CRW MANAGEMENT II LLC, MRG CRW OPERATIONS LLC, MUNICH OPCO GMBH, Miraval Resort, OASIS LUXURY RENTALS INCORPORATED, PARIS HOTEL COMPANY B.V., PARK HYATT HAMBURG GMBH, PARK HYATT HOTEL GMBH, PARK HYATT WATER TOWER ASSOCIATES L.L.C., PH NEW YORK L.L.C., PHMC RESIDENCIAS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., POLK SMITH REGENCY LLC, PT HYATT INDONESIA, PVD INVESTMENT COMPANY S.A.R.L., Peabody Hotels & Resort, RCG PROPERTIES LLC, REGENCY BEVERAGE COMPANY LLC, REGENCY RIVERWALK BEVERAGE LLC, RESERVATIONS CENTER L.L.C., RIO JV PARTNERS PARTICIPACOES LTDA., RIO PRETO PARTNERS HOTEIS LTDA., RIO PRETO PARTNERS S.A.R.L., ROSEMONT PROJECT MANAGEMENT L.L.C., ROUTE 46 MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATES CORP., RUNWAY HOLDING L.L.C., RUNWAY L.L.C., SAO PAULO INVESTMENT COMPANY INC., SAO PAULO INVESTORS LIMITED, SASIH, SDI EQUITIES INVESTOR L.L.C., SDI INC., SDI SECURITIES 11 LLC, SDI SECURITIES 6 LLC, SELECT HOTELS GROUP L.L.C., SELECT JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., SEOUL MIRAMAR CORPORATION, SERVICIOS DE HOTELERIA SAN JOSE S. DE R.L. DE C.V., SERVICIOS HOTELEROS LA PAZ S. DE R.L. DE C.V., SETTLEMENT INVESTORS INC., SHG PUERTO RICO INC., SIERRA HEALTHSTYLES LLC, SJC DESARROLLOS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., SKS CORP. N.V., SMC HOTELS B.V., SOROCABA PARTNERS HOTEIS LTDA, SOROCABA PARTNERS S.A.R.L., STANHOPE L.L.C., STARHILL LORING PARK L.L.C., SUGAR LAND/HP LLC, THE GREAT EASTERN HOTEL COMPANY LIMITED, THE GREAT EASTERN HOTEL HOLDING COMPANY LIMITED, TIJUANA PARTNERS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., TR MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT LLC, TUCSON VILLAS HOLDINGS LLC, TUCSON VILLAS LLC, TWO SEAS HOLDINGS LIMITED, Two Roads Hospitality, WAILEA HOTEL & BEACH RESORT L.L.C., WAILEA HOTEL HOLDINGS L.L.C., WAILEA MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION L.L.C., WAILEA RESORT VILLAS HOLDINGS L.L.C., WAILEA RESORT VILLAS L.L.C., WEST END RESIDENCES L.L.C., XENIA ASSURANCE COMPANY INC., XENIA ASSURANCE COMPANY OF ILLINOIS, ZURICH ESCHERWIESE HOTEL GMBH, and ZURICH HOTEL INVESTMENTS B.V..Invesco CurrencyShares Canadian Dollar Trust's stock was trading at $71.76 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, FXC stock has increased by 6.8% and is now trading at $76.64.

View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19.Shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF reverse split before market open on Monday, November 7th 2016. The 1-4 reverse split was announced on Friday, October 14th 2016. The number of shares owned by shareholders was adjusted after the closing bell on Friday, November 4th 2016. An investor that had 100 shares of iShares MSCI Japan ETF stock prior to the reverse split would have 25 shares after the split.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 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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.DPA, 02nd DECEMBER, 2018-Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday accused Ukraine of not wanting a peaceful solution to its conflict with Russia.



At a press conference at the end of the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Putin repeated his assertion that the latest incident in the Kerch Strait was a provocation by Ukraine which reflected Kievs attitude.



The ruling party in Kiev was a party of war and as long as its in power, tragedies of this type and the war will continue, Putin argued, adding that it was always blaming Russian aggression for its leadership failures.



Putin has previously suggested that Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko engineered Sundays incident in a bid to improve his chances ahead of next years presidential election, without providing any evidence for the claim.



On Sunday, Russia seized three Ukrainian naval vessels off the Crimean Peninsula, a territory it annexed from Ukraine four years ago.



In the most dangerous flare-up of violence since 2014, the Russian coastguard opened fire and captured the Ukrainian vessels in the Kerch Strait, which links the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea.



Kiev then instituted 30 days of martial law and imposed border controls on Russian men aged between 16 and 60, citing fears that Russia would infiltrate its territory to stage an uprising.iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF's stock was trading at $170.68 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus (COVID-19) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, IWO shares have increased by 74.6% and is now trading at $298.03.

View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19.The following companies are subsidiares of Bristol-Myers Squibb: 1096271 B.C. ULC, 345 Park LLC, A.G. Medical Services P.A., AHI Investment LLC, AbVitro LLC, Abraxis BioScience Australia Pty Ltd., Abraxis BioScience Inc., Abraxis BioScience International Holding Company Inc., Abraxis BioScience LLC, Abraxis BioScience Puerto Rico LLC, Acetylon Pharmaceuticals Inc., Adnexus, Adnexus a Bristol-Myers Squibb R&D Company, Allard Labs Acquisition G.P., Amira Pharmaceuticals, Amira Pharmaceuticals Inc., Amylin Pharmaceuticals, Apothecon LLC, B-MS Generx Unlimited Company, BMS Benelux Holdings B.V., BMS Bermuda Nominees L.L.C., BMS Data Acquisition Company LLC, BMS Forex Company, BMS Holdings Sarl, BMS Holdings Spain S.L., BMS International Insurance Designated Activity Company, BMS Investco SAS, BMS Korea Holdings L.L.C., BMS Latin American Nominees L.L.C., BMS Luxembourg Partners L.L.C., BMS Omega Bermuda Holdings Finance Ltd., BMS Pharmaceutical Korea Limited, BMS Pharmaceuticals Germany Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals International Holdings Netherlands B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Korea Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Mexico Holdings B.V., BMS Pharmaceuticals Netherlands Holdings B.V., BMS Real Estate LLC, BMS Spain Investments LLC, BMS Strategic Portfolio Investments Holdings Inc., Blisa Acquisition G.P., Bristol (Iran) S.A., Bristol Iran Private Company Limited, Bristol Laboratories Inc., Bristol Laboratories International S.A., Bristol Laboratories Medical Information Systems Inc., Bristol-Myers (Andes) L.L.C., Bristol-Myers (Private) Limited, Bristol-Myers Middle East S.A.L., Bristol-Myers Overseas Corporation, Bristol-Myers Squibb (China) Investment Co. 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Ltd., Bristol-Myers Squibb Axia Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb B.V., Bristol-Myers Squibb Belgium S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb Business Services Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada Co., Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada International Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Delta Company Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Denmark Filial of Bristol-Myers Squibb AB, Bristol-Myers Squibb EMEA Sarl, Bristol-Myers Squibb Egypt LLC, Bristol-Myers Squibb Epsilon Holdings Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Farmaceutica Ltda., Bristol-Myers Squibb Farmaceutica Portuguesa S.A., Bristol-Myers Squibb GesmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb GmbH & Co. KGaA, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holding Germany GmbH & Co. KG, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings 2002 Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Germany Verwaltungs GmbH, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Ireland Unlimited Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Holdings Pharma Ltd. Liability Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Ilaclari Inc., Bristol-Myers Squibb India Pvt. 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Ltd., Celgene Pte. Ltd., Celgene Pty Ltd, Celgene Puerto Rico Distribution LLC, Celgene Quanticel Research Inc, Celgene R&D Sarl, Celgene RIVOT LLC, Celgene RIVOT Ltd., Celgene RIVOT SRL, Celgene Receptos Limited, Celgene Receptos Sarl, Celgene Research Incubator At Summit West LLC, Celgene Research S.L.U., Celgene Research and Development Company LLC, Celgene Research and Development I ULC, Celgene Research and Development II LLC, Celgene Research and Investment Company II LLC, Celgene S. de R.L. de C.V., Celgene S.L.U., Celgene S.R.L., Celgene SAS, Celgene Sarl AU, Celgene Sdn Bhd, Celgene Services Sarl, Celgene Sociedade Unipessoal Lda, Celgene Sp. Z.o.o., Celgene Sro [Czech Republic], Celgene Summit Investment Co, Celgene Switzerland Holding Sarl, Celgene Switzerland II LLC, Celgene Switzerland Investment Sarl, Celgene Switzerland LLC, Celgene Switzerland Sarl, Celgene Tri A Holdings Ltd., Celgene Tri Sarl, Celgene UK Distribution Limited, Celgene UK Holdings Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing II Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing III Limited, Celgene UK Manufacturing Limited, Celgene d.o.o., Celgene sro [Slovakia], Celmed LLC, Celmed Ltd., ConvaTec Divestiture, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals, Cormorant Pharmaceuticals AB, Crosp Ltd., Delinia Inc., Deuteria Pharmaceuticals Inc., DuPont Pharmaceuticals, E. R. Squibb & Sons Inter-American Corporation, E. R. Squibb & Sons L.L.C., E. R. 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Bristol-Myers Squibb, Oy Bristol-Myers Squibb (Finland) AB, Padlock Therapeutics, Padlock Therapeutics Inc., Pharmion LLC, Princeton Pharmaceutical Products Inc., Receptos LLC, Receptos Services LLC, RedoxTherapies Inc., Route 22 Real Estate Holding Corporation, SPV A Holdings ULC, Seamair Insurance DAC, Signal Pharmaceuticals LLC, Sino-American Shanghai Squibb Pharmaceuticals Limited, Societe Francaise de Complements Alimentaires(S.O.F.C.A.), Squibb Middle East S.A., Summit West Celgene LLC, Swords Laboratories, VentiRx Pharmaceuticals Inc., Westwood-Intrafin SA, Westwood-Squibb Pharmaceuticals Inc., X-Body Inc., ZymoGenetics, ZymoGenetics Inc., ZymoGenetics LLC, ZymoGenetics Paymaster LLC, iPierian, and iPierian Inc..Diplomat Pharmacy, Inc. operates as an independent specialty pharmacy in the United States. The company operates through Specialty and PBM (pharmacy benefit management) segment. It provides specialty infusion pharmacy, patient care coordination, clinical, compliance and persistency program, patient financial assistance, specialty pharmacy training, benefits investigation, prior authorization, risk evaluation and medication strategy, retail specialty, and hub services, as well as clinical and administrative support services to hospitals and health systems. The company primarily focuses on medication management programs for individuals with complex chronic diseases, including oncology, immunology, hepatitis, multiple sclerosis, specialized infusion therapy, and various other serious or long-term conditions. It also offers PBM services, including electronic point-of-sale pharmacy claims management, retail pharmacy network management, mail pharmacy claims management, specialty pharmacy claims management, Medicare Part D services, benefit design consultation, drug review and analysis, consulting services, data access, and reporting, information analysis, and preferred drug management programs to managed care organizations, self-insured employer groups, unions, and third-party healthcare plan administrators and worker's compensation payers. The company was founded in 1975 and is headquartered in Flint, Michigan.

Read MoreMallinckrodt plc (NYSE:MNK) issued its earnings results on Tuesday, August, 4th. The company reported $1.89 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts' consensus estimates of $1.34 by $0.55. The firm had revenue of $700.90 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $630.19 million. Mallinckrodt had a positive trailing twelve-month return on equity of 34.26% and a negative net margin of 89.94%. The business's quarterly revenue was down 14.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $2.53 earnings per share.

View Mallinckrodt's earnings history.The Sir chittampalam A gardiner Mawatha has been temporarily closed from the Regal cinema to the Slave Island Police Station due to a protest carried out by a group of employees of the National Housing Development Authority.

The protesters urged the authorities to absorb them into the permanent staff.

Video by RM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The Toronto-Dominion Bank, together with its subsidiaries, provides various personal and commercial banking products and services in Canada and the United States. It operates through three segments: Canadian Retail, U.S. Retail, and Wholesale Banking. The company offers personal deposits, such as chequing, savings, and investment products; financing, investment, cash management, international trade, and day-to-day banking services to businesses; and financing options to customers at point of sale for automotive and recreational vehicle purchases through auto dealer network. It also provides credit cards; real estate secured lending; auto finance; consumer lending; point-of-sale payment solutions for large and small businesses; wealth and asset management products, private banking, investment advisory, and trust services to retail and institutional clients; and property and casualty insurance, as well as life and health insurance products. The company also provides capital markets, and corporate and investment banking services, including underwriting and distribution of new debt and equity issues; advice on strategic acquisitions and divestitures; and trading, funding, and investment services to companies, governments, and institutions. It offers its products and services under the TD Bank and America's Most Convenient Bank brand names. The company operates through a network of 1,085 branches, 3,440 automated teller machines, and 1,223 stores, as well as offers telephone, digital, and mobile banking services. The Toronto-Dominion Bank was founded in 1855 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

Read MoreSemGroup Corporation provides gathering, transportation, storage, distribution, marketing, and other midstream services for producers, refiners of petroleum products, and other market participants. The company operates in three segments: U.S. Liquids, U.S. Gas, and Canada. The U.S. Liquids segment operates crude oil pipelines, truck transportation, storage, terminals, and marketing businesses; stores, blends, and transports refinery products and refinery feedstock through pipeline, barge, rail, truck, and ship; and operates a residual fuel oil storage terminal in the U.S. Gulf Coast. This segment has 18.2 million barrels of storage capacity on the Houston Ship Channel; and 7.6 million barrels of storage capacity at the Cushing Interchange. It also operates a 460-mile crude oil gathering and transportation pipeline system in Kansas and northern Oklahoma; 75-mile crude oil gathering pipeline system that transports crude oil from production facilities in the DJ Basin to the pipeline owned by White Cliffs Pipeline, L.L.C.; 2 parallel 527-mile pipelines that transports crude oil from Platteville, Colorado to Cushing, Oklahoma; 3 pipelines with an aggregate of 106 miles of pipe; 30-lane crude oil truck unloading facility in Platteville, Colorado; and crude oil trucking fleet of approximately 245 transport trucks and 235 trailers. The U.S. Gas segment provides natural gas gathering, processing, and marketing services. It operates 842 miles of gathering lines in Oklahoma; and a 53-mile high pressure gathering pipeline located in the STACK play. The Canada segment owns and operates natural gas processing and gathering facilities with approximately 530 miles of natural gas gathering and transportation pipelines in Alberta, Canada. SemGroup Corporation was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Read MoreSri Lankan politics has made headlines locally and across the globe since October 26. With the struggle to prove a majority in Parliament, it turned into a battle ground followed by continuous boycotting by members of the purported Government. While this continues, civil societies and activists have taken to the streets demanding their democratic rights. In such a backdrop, the Opposition is demanding for a Presidential Election in order to sort out the chaos.

In a candid interview with the Daily Mirror, United National Party Member of Parliament from Gampaha District Ruwan Wijewardene shed light on the broader alliance being formed and the need for young leadership.

Q: What are your thoughts on the entire series of events that happened since October 26?

What has happened politically is very unfortunate. The whole country has been at a standstill for more than a month. Nothing is moving forward, the economy is at a downward spiral and theres no direction. All this is due to what President Maithripala Sirisena has done. He has gone against the Constitution of the country. He ousted Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on a personal vendetta, threw the United National Front (UNF) Government out and took Mahinda Rajapaksa from the back door. The people have not recognised the illegitimate Government of Mahinda Rajapaksa and the effect it has had on the country is profound. Hopefully it will come in to some sort of a settlement where a legitimate Government would be formed. We are hoping for a Presidential Election.



Q: Who will be the candidate?

We are still in discussion regarding that. It could be Ranil Wickremesinghe or any other leader from the Party. It will be decided once the Party leaders of the UNF discuss on that. But we have reached an agreement with everyone including the parties that we need to go in for a Presidential Election soon.



Q: There is a broader alliance being formed. What are its objectives?

With President Sirisenas move, most of the parties have come together to safeguard democracy in this country. Because of that all parties are now in agreement that a broader alliance is needed. So we will have many political parties which will join us and we are even ready to face a General Election. But what we prefer is to go in for a Presidential Election. Thats where the core problem is. Even if we do form a Government now with President Sirisena and if he is adamant that Ranil Wickremesinghe is not going to be the PM, then even if we appoint someone else in another two or three months he would say that he doesnt like that person too. So what is needed right now is a Presidential Election to bring more stability to the country. Soon after that we can go for a General Election. PM Ranil Wickremesinghe has said that we could have the two elections on the same day. I think that would be ideal because it would save much money and bring about stability.



Q: When the coalition Government was formed, it was also like a broader alliance. But not much was done during the past three years. What are your views?

One thing about this coalition, which began in 2015, is that there were two main camps; the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and the UNP. These two parties were at each others throats since the inception. The ideologies and the thought processes were different. So when those two parties merged, definitely there was going to be much friction. That was what we faced during the past three years. Because of that it was difficult to move things along. The SLFP faction tried and blocked what we would propose and it was becoming difficult to take it forward. But with the forming of the broader alliance it will be different. Most parties have been having discussions at the same level. I think their thoughts are on par with each other. We may even find some members, probably from the SLFP group, joining us if they are in agreement with our process. Theres a high possibility of that happening as well.

Ranil Wickremesinghe is a person with vast knowledge and experience in the government. So I dont think he could be dismissed just like that



Q: Why does the UNP need a broader alliance? Isnt it as strong as it was like during its inception?

Basically if you look at the political environment in the country I dont think a single party enjoy the majority in Parliament. The SLFP cant do it and nor the SLPP no matter how much they shout that they are the largest party. So whichever party that comes forward should go in for an alliance to win the majority in Parliament. The UNP is strong and we still maintain our membership. As a single party we have had the strongest membership. The broader alliance is formed not for us to come in to power, but mainly to safeguard the countrys democracy.



Q: Is the Peoples Liberation Front (JVP) also in this alliance?

The JVP right now is fighting to safeguard democracy and on that fight they are with us. But as a broader alliance going in for an election I think they still have to make that decision.



Q: So who has the majority now?

The majority is with us. It is clear because we moved two No-Confidence motions. During the last vote we had on the Selection Committee we showed that we had 131 members who voted with us. Thats a clear indication although the President, MR and their team keep denying it. They do not have the majority, which is why they dont turn up in Parliament. Its the first time in the history of politics that a so-called Government boycotted Parliament. Usually its the opposition who does that. I remember that there were times when we walked out of Parliament. But as a government you should not do that because you own a majority in Parliament. Clearly the reason for them not to turn up in Parliament is because they dont have the majority. They relate their absence to the Speaker saying that he is aligned with the UNF and is not making the right decisions. But if thats the case they can bring a No-Confidence motion against the Speaker. If the so-called Government says that they have a majority, they can prove it.



Q: Over the past few days there was a massive waste of public money in terms of Parliament not being convened. Even the behaviour of MPs was appalling. How do you see this?

It is not only the wastage of money, but also the huge damage they have done to the country. Internationally we have become a laughing stock due to the manner in which way they behaved in Parliament. When MR was in the opposition they were criticizing this Government for the devaluation of the rupee, but even under them the rupee is not stable. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the USA have stopped funds coming into Sri Lanka.

The light railway project, which was on the cards, has been stopped. So there is much indication that the country is being brought down to its knees. All this is just because President Sirisena has an issue with Ranil Wickremesinghe. If he had an issue all he had to do was to get the party leaders of the UNF Government together. He could have said that he has an issue and he could have found a solution. But instead he spoke to Sajith Premadasa and Karu Jayasuriya separately and offered the premiership to them. However without the backing of the Party or the UNF leaders they would not take that position. That way, the whole scenario could have been avoided.



Q: Dont you think that the UNF needs a new face at this point?

I think the whole country is looking for newer faces. I think everyone is disgusted and fed up with politicians. They are fed up with the rhetoric of the politicians. So they are looking for younger leadership. Ranil Wickremesinghe is a person with vast knowledge and experience in the government. So I dont think he could be dismissed just like that. If we are to run a country we need people with experience and at the same time we need younger leaders to come forward. If we look at Canada, France and several other countries there is a trend where the younger leaders have come forward and taken over the leadership roles of their countries. But when it comes to the next elections the UNP would sit and decide which route we should take to win.



Q: In an earlier interview, Minister Welgama had said that the President has a hidden agenda behind appointing MR as PM. Do you think the same?

Personally I wonder whether the President took this decision to politically destroy Ranil Wickremesinghe and Mahinda Rajapaksa. And I think he has achieved it to a certain extent. I think Rajapaksa was a person who had a very strong following and is someone who earned much respect not only from his followers, but also from the opposition as well. But now his standing has dropped a lot. Now people see him as just another politician who wants to grab on to power in whatever the way he can. That respect that the people had for him has dropped. President Sirisenas popularity is also at a record low. More than harming Wickremesinghe or Rajapaksa it has pretty much backfired on himself. He even sees his own Party members leaving and joining Rajapaksa.



Q: As the former State Minister of Defence what are your thoughts on the President himself being the Minister of Defence?

As the State Minister there were times when I found that my hands were tied. There was not much I could do probably because I was from the UNP. He (Sirisena) said that one reason for him to appoint Rajapaksa as Prime Minister was to safeguard national security, but we found that when the No-Confidence motion was being discussed, both the President and Rajapaksa were speaking to MPs from the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) to keep quiet and in turn they would release the 100 odd LTTE prisoners. Some of them are those who have assassinated people like Lakshman Kadirgamar and some who have placed bombs all around Colombo. So what sort of national security are they talking about? If we tried doing that during our time we would have been called traitors and that we are going to divide the country etc. But when it comes to them its all about national security. The amount of politicisation happening within the military has been worrying. I believe that the military should be independent and they should be given their tasks to safeguard national security.

As a government you should not do that because you own a majority in Parliament. Clearly the reason for them not to turn up in Parliament is because they dont have the majority



Q: What will happen to the Budget?

There will be no Budget unless a legitimate Government is installed. I believe that once we get a legitimate Government in place we can present our Budget which we were planning on.



Q: Will the On Account Budget be tabled?

I doubt it very much. Its all about bravado and they are trying to show that they are in control, but they are not. They dont have the finances and the treasury is in a mess. So everything is at a standstill so much so that bills in ministries are not being paid. Until a proper legitimate Government is installed nothing will move forward.



Q: Where does the peoples voice stand today?

With what we saw in social media independently there were people who took to the streets, holding placards and doing vigils to safeguard the countrys democracy. They are looking for a change and want stability. They want proper development and a Government without corruption. Corruption has been a huge issue in our political history. In 2015 they were expecting that change. There was much hope that things would change during the past three years, but unfortunately those three years were spent by these groups quarreling. I think a new generation of politicians would come forward from all parties and their view on how the country should run would be different. In turn there will be a better future. Its actually up to the people. I hope they go and choose their representatives wisely without casting their vote for those who would jump from one side to the other for money and prestige. We need more educated people in politics. If we do return as a legitimate Government we are going to bring another amendment to the Constitution and make sure that there are no crossovers in the future. I say this because corruption is present.C&J Energy Services, Inc. provides well construction, well completion, well support, and other complementary oilfield services and technologies to oil and gas exploration and production companies throughout the continental United States. It operates through Completion Services and Well Support Services segments. The Completion Services segment provides hydraulic fracturing; cased-hole solutions comprising cased-hole wireline, pumpdown, wireline logging, perforating, pressure pumping, well site make-up and pressure testing, and other complementary services; and well construction and intervention services, which include cementing, coiled tubing, rig services, fluids management, and other completion and well support services. This segment also engages in the engineering and production of various parts and components, such as perforating guns and addressable switches, which are used in the completion process. The Well Support Services segment offers rig services, such as providing workover and well servicing rigs that are primarily used for the routine repair and maintenance of oil and gas wells, re-drilling operations, and plugging and abandonment operations; fluids management services, including storage, transportation, and disposal services for fluids used in the drilling, completion, and workover of oil and gas wells; and other special well site services, such as fishing, contract labor, and tool rental services for the completion and workover of oil and gas wells. The company was founded in 1997 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.

Read More(London) REUTERS: Unilever is to buy GlaxoSmithKlines Horlicks nutrition business for US $ 3.8 billion, boosting the Anglo-Dutch groups position in India with the addition of the malted drink.



The deal, announced yesterday, increases the consumer goods giants footprint in one the worlds fastest-growing economies and marks a notable addition to the portfolio by outgoing Chief Executive Paul Polman, who steps down in January.



For GSK boss Emma Walmsley, it is a chance to further streamline operations and generate cash for increased investment in pharmaceuticals.

The sale follows a competitive auction in which Unilever saw off rival Nestle, as well as earlier interest from

Coca-Cola.

The transaction covers GSKs health food and drinks portfolio in India, Bangladesh and 20 other predominantly Asian markets. The business has annual sales of around 550 million euros, primarily through the malt-based Horlicks and Boost brands.



Horlicks comfortably dominates the health-drinks market in India and Unilever is expected to try and give it a fresh lease of life, following a slowdown in sales growth in recent years.HUL finance head Srinivas Phatak told reporters he expected the business to grow at a double-digit percentage rate in the medium term, boosting both earnings and profit margins.GSKs decision to sell the business follows its US $ 13 billion acquisition of Novartiss stake in the two groups consumer health joint venture earlier this year.



GSK said at the time that selling Horlicks could support the funding of the Novartis buyout.



The main asset being sold is GSKs 72.5 percent stake in Indian-listed GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare.



Unilever said its 3.3 billion euros (US $ 3.75 billion) consideration would be paid in cash and shares in its subsidiary in India, Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL).



Shares in both Indian companies rose more than 4 percent yesterday.GSK said its net proceeds from the deal, after tax and hedging costs, were expected to be around 2.4 billion pounds (US $ 3.1 billion).



Following the closure of the deal, which is expected in around 12 months, GSK will own approximately 5.7 percent of HUL and the British drugmaker intends to sell this down in tranches.



The price being paid for the GSK business is broadly in line with expectations. People familiar with the process had told Reuters it was likely to be sold for less than US $ 4 billion.GSK was advised by Morgan Stanley and Greenhill, while BofA Merrill Lynch worked with Unilever.



Horlicks traces its history back to 1873, when two British-born men, James and William Horlick, founded a company in Chicago to manufacture it.

It was taken to India by soldiers who had fought with the British Army in the First World War.



Sold as a bedtime drink in Britain, it was developed into a much bigger brand by GSK in India, although more recently its growth as slowed as urban Indian consumers turn to healthier, less-sugary alternatives.SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Fifty-seven priests have been named, with credible claims of child sexual abuse against them, by the Syracuse Roman Catholic Diocese Monday morning.

At least eight of the priests listed have ties to the Mohawk Valley in some way.

The local priests include: Felix Colosimo, who served most recently at Our Lady of the Rosary in Utica, and has also served at St. Leo's in Holland Patent  he was removed from ministry and has died. Robert Kloster, who has been removed from ministry. James f. Quinn has died. William Lorenz has been removed from ministry. Thomas Guyder who served locally at St. Agnes, was removed from ministry and is deceased. Chester Misercola, who was removed from the ministry. Martin Tracy, a priest in the Oriskany area during the 50s and 60s, has died. And Charles Sewall is among them, he too has passed away.

In all, 19 of the clergy members are still living, and have been removed from the church. There are 38 priests on the list that are deceased. The list includes all priests who have been found with credible allegations of child sexual abuse against them.

This all comes on the heels of the New York state attorney general launching a probe back in September into all eight dioceses in the state, seeking information about whether or not church officials knew about and covered up sexual abuse by clergy.

Syracuse Bishop Robert Cunningham says that the list of names was provided by district attorney office's from all counties within the diocese, and that there are no active clergy members with a credible allegation of abuse against him.

The church is addressing the tragedy that some of its members have "harmed children and young people," and promises that steps have been taken to help victims, and to "maintain a culture in which chidlren and young people are safe and protected."

Cunningham said in his letter to parishioners that, "we are at a criticial juncture in the history of our church." His hope is that although the list will cause pain for some victims, families of the accused, friends and parishioners, that is will also bring peace and healing to the faith community and those directly harmed.

The bishop previously did not want to name those with credible allegations against them in order to respect the wishes of the accuser. He says that after prayer and reflection, he saw this as a roadblock in the effort to move forward on the local level. He added that he didn't think it would be fair to his successor to leave him to make that decision.

The focus of the Catholic Church, according to Cunningham's letter, will now be to try rebuilding trust and "forging a path to restoring and strengthening the faith."

NewChannel 2 spoke with Danielle Cummings, the chancellor/director of communications at the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse, Monday morning. She says it's important to note each category on the list and pay attention to those categories. For example, some of the priests have passed away and were accused after their deaths.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD PDF WITH FULL LIST OF NAMESGREATER LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) -- A group of community members are going beyond the U.S. borders to help those in need.

Mike Brzezinski and Drew Furry are Purdue faculty members involved in Project House of Hope, an organization in the community that is working to provide better schooling for kids in Haiti.

Brzezinski and Furry are involved in a project within the Project House of Hope organization called Project Refuge. This project focuses on building a school in Montrouis, Haiti. According to Brzezinski, the school that stands there now is nothing like a classroom you'd see in the United States.

The school is in rented quarters, so it's very limited space, dimly lit. Students can barely see the papers on their desks in certain classrooms because it's so dark and being rented space, it's not a permanent place so they could lose the space at any time, said Brzezinski.

Brzezinski and Furry's passion for education led them to want to take on the project.

It really hurt our hearts to understand that the kids were having to learn in substandard conditions so we really decided that that wasn't going to be acceptable to us, said Furry.

Furry said, from the building's structure to water and ventilation needs, everything was considered to make the school a better place of learning.

According to Brzezinski, approximately 50% of students end up going to school and of those 50% in primary school only 60% advance on to secondary schools.

With nearly half of the children in the community not making it to high school, Brzezinski wants this new school to be a source of hope and empowerment for the students.

By helping a community to raise up its children to have greater employment opportunities and greater opportunities in life, I can think of very few investments of money that are as worthy as that cause, said Brzezinski.

The organization is collecting donations to help in building the school. The group has already raised more than $67,000 and the goal is $150,000.

You can be a part of helping build the school by clicking here. If you want more information about being apart of Project House of Hope you can reach out to Mike Brzezinski at mbrzezinski@purdue.edu.Symposium highlights role of women in building post-war constitutions

Post-conflict constitution building: Professor Christie Warren (left) director of the Law School's Center for Comparative Legal Studies and Post-Conflict Peacebuilding, served as the symposium's moderator. Speakers included, from left, Justice Gresa Caka-Nimani of the Constitutional Court of Kosovo; April Powell-Willingham, former director of the U.N. Office of Constitutional and Legislative Affairs in Baghdad and former head of the U.N. Joint Constitution Unit for Somalia; and Melanie Allen J.D. '21, former project director for International IDEAs Constitution Building Processes Programme at the Hague. Photo by David F. Morrill Photo - of - Hide Caption

In 1946, Beate Sirota Gordon, a 22-year-old naturalized American citizen living in occupied post-war Japan, participated alongside U.S. Gen. Douglas MacArthur in the drafting process of Japans post-war constitution. Over the course of seven days, Gordon wrote two clauses enshrining womens equality and equal civil rights for women, including in financial, marital and family issues.

Since then, women have been working in conflict and post-conflict settings for many years, advising on constitutional issues in war-torn environments that are often difficult and dangerous. On Nov. 12, the Center for Comparative Legal Studies and Post-Conflict Peacebuilding (CLS/PCP) at William & Mary Law School hosted a symposium that shined a spotlight on the substantive constitutional work women have been doing for decades in countries recovering from conflict.

During her opening remarks, Christie S. Warren, professor of the practice of international and comparative law and director of CLS/PCP, emphasized that women who do this work are  and have to be  tough. Conditions are not easy, and the fields of constitutional law and post-conflict constitution building remain mostly male-dominated.

April Powell-Willingham, former director of the United Nations Office of Constitutional and Legislative Affairs in Baghdad and former head of the United Nations Joint Constitution Unit for Somalia, began with a question for the standing-room-only audience: How can those in a society overcome fear and suspicion amongst themselves in order to build trust and move forward in peace? This question has arisen time and again in the countries in which she continues to work, most recently in Afghanistan and South Sudan. Building trust may not seem like a priority immediately following conflict, genocide or war crimes, but its absence negatively impacts progress on the substantive work involved in constitution building, including with issues such as federal frameworks, institution building, decentralization and capacity building, she said.

Gresa Caka-Nimani, justice of the Constitutional Court of Kosovo, provided an account of the constitutional process in her country, which coincided with the drafters gradual realization that inaction by the Security Council would necessitate a declaration of Kosovos independence. Discussions with the Albanian majority and Serb and other minority groups about options for decentralization, rights for minority groups and control of the narrative of the conflict  which reached an apex during heated disagreements about the contents of the preamble to the new constitution  were contentious and, at times, dangerous. Caka-Nimani, who traveled from Pristina for the symposium, stated that contributions by international actors were useful during the constitutional process both to provide a framework of international standards while also mitigating passions of the drafters, many of whom had lost family members during the war.

Melanie Allen, former project director for International IDEAs Constitution Building Processes Programme at the Hague and a current first-year student at W&M Law School, spoke of the need for inclusivity, not merely participation, during constitutional processes, as well as in the wording of the constitution itself. Allen, author of "Constitution Assessment for Womens Equality" and former interim director of IDEAs Nepal office, emphasized that language alone does not guarantee or even necessarily promote gender equality in constitutions. Instead, each constitutional issue must be analyzed for its substantive impact on womens development, or lack thereof, especially in post-conflict environments, she said.

The symposium, made possible, in part, by generous funding from the Reves Center for International Studies at William & Mary, was moderated by Warren, who is the founding director of CLS/PCP. Warren has advised on constitutional processes in Haiti, Iraq, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Somalia, Sudan and Ukraine and served as the 20102011 senior expert in constitutional issues for the United Nations Department of Political Affairs Mediation Support Standby Team.



Learn more about the Center for Comparative Legal Studies and Post-Conflict Peacebuilding by visiting the website.Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO) was sworn in as president of Mexico on Saturday. The new administration is being characterized, and hailed in many quarters, as the first leftist government in the country since 1940. Popular expectations are that his administration will reduce widespread poverty, as well as end endemic violence and corruption.

AMLO delivered a two-hour inauguration speech in Mexicos Congress. He vowed to preside over a radical and profound change that will bring about a rebirth of Mexico, in which the poor come first. His administration would bring to Mexico a fourth transformation, likening it to the fight for independence from Spain (1810-1821), the liberal Reforma period under Benito Juarez (1858-1866) and the Mexican Revolution (1910-1921).

AMLO characterized the neoliberal economic model that has prevailed in the country for decades as a catastrophe that resulted in the concentration of income in a few hands and the impoverishment of the majority of the population, with many risking their lives to emigrate to the United States or taking the road of criminal activity.

Growth, he said, had averaged only 2 percent a year during this period, and public debt (presently 46 percent of GDP) rose without substantial accomplishments in infrastructure. AMLO contrasted this with the period from 1940-1982 (that is, before the rapid onset of globalization of the world economy) when growth averaged 6 percent per year without producing an increase in government debt. In contrast to a time period when Mexico was self-sufficient, it now was forced to import petroleum and corn, he said.

The privatization of Mexicos oil industry under the energy reform of outgoing president Enrique Pena Nieto had not, AMLO said, saved the country as had been promised, but instead resulted in meager foreign investment and a decreasing rate of oil production, with excessive increases in the prices of gasoline, diesel, gas and electricity. He said his administration will recover our oil like General [Lazaro] Cardenas [Mexicos president from 1934-40 who expropriated foreign oil holdings]. I am a Cardenista, he proclaimed.

The crisis in Mexico originated, Lopez Obrador stressed, not only in of the failure of the neoliberal economic model, but also because of the predominance of corruption. During that period nothing harmed Mexico more than the dishonesty of the rulers and the small minority that has profited from influence. That is the main cause of economic and social inequality and the insecurity and violence that we suffer. His administrations prime objective thus would be to end corruption and impunity.

As for ending the reign of violence that has plagued the country, in his speech Lopez Obrador reiterated his proposal made over the last two weeks to modify the restrictions in the constitution on the militarys involvement in domestic policing and to create a new national guard composed of units from the army and the marines who would report to the military brass.

This was an about-face from his campaign promises to take the military off the streets and turn them back to the barracksreversing a campaign launched in 2006, ostensibly to fight the drug cartels, that resulted in hundreds of thousand killed or disappeared.

Lopez Obrador laid out a series of measures that amount at most to modest increases in public spending to alleviate poverty and bring social justice. All Mexicans ages 68 years old or older (63 years in impoverished indigenous areas) would receive a pension of 62 dollars a monthdouble the current rate. Persons with disabilities, in extreme poverty, and young people who neither study nor work, would receive benefits or scholarships. One hundred new universities will be built.

A recent poll by the newspaper El Economista showed that 45 percent of Mexicans believe that real change will be seen within a year under the new administration, and about half said that they expected AMLO to keep all or most of his campaign promises. The day of the inauguration, some 150,000 people attended a celebration in Mexico Citys central square, and 30,000 lined up to visit the presidential palace, which AMLO said would not be his residence, but a public museum.

However, these widespread expectations will soon come crashing up against AMLOs program and the interests of the bourgeoisie that it embodies.

Although AMLO says Mexico will build new oil refineries, he also said the previous administrations energy privatization reforms would not be undone, and foreign investment contracts will be honored.

As for the scourge of corruption, there would be no new prosecutions of former government officials, who will be allowed to keep the hundreds of millions of dollars they looted. He will only prosecute officials for future acts. Presumably, officials could return to business as usual after AMLOs six-year term.

As for funding the reduction of poverty and unemployment, Lopez Obrador declines to increase government debt and says an austerity budget will prevail.

Nor will his administration raise taxes, not even on the oligarchic sliver at the apex of Mexican society that benefited disproportionately from the neoliberal political economy he decries. They, like corrupt officials they trafficked with, can keep their ill-gotten wealth. Nor will AMLO pursue any restrictions on the banks or the financial sector, he says.

Most dangerous to the Mexican populace is Lopez Obradors proposal for a new national guard, which will effectively result in the further militarization of the country. That is something his voters did not support or even contemplate; quite the contrary.

In his speech AMLO went to considerable lengths to conceal the real class character of the military as the armed representatives of the ruling class. They instead were defenders of democracy because they had not carried out a coup since the end of the Mexico revolution! In Mexico, he said, we do not have military members that are part of the oligarchy, and they are backed by public opinion.  They have been nourished by the people, they are the people in uniform.

The danger of such conceptions, and of increasing the power of the military at a time of growing social unrest, cannot be overstated. The new national guard will be used to repress social opposition just as ruthlessly as under previous governments, if not more so. The purpose of portraying the military as allies of workers is to chloroform their class consciousness with nationalist poison ahead of the violent upheavals that will inevitably come when illusions in AMLOs government are shattered.

AMLO attempts to depict the deepening crisis of Mexican society as a product of misguided policies by corrupt leaders rather than as the objective trajectory of the capitalist system. But he is only sowing illusions that honest leadership and better policies can relieve the oppression of the Mexican population.

As long as the financial oligarchy is allowed to dictate every aspect of life for the working class, there can be no real improvement in living conditions, under AMLO or any other capitalist politician.

The reality is that Lopez Obradors new leftist government will mark a new stage in the crisis of the ruling class. All the formerly dominant bourgeois parties lie in tatters. Millions of workers, who have looked to AMLO and Morena to reverse their losses over the past four decades, are certain to be vastly disappointed.

These shattered illusions and the continuation of intolerable conditions under capitalism can only lead to social explosions on a scale not seen since the Mexican revolution.Ive got a relative who works at the Lordstown plant and hes going to be out of a job, Pernell, a veteran worker at Fiat Chryslers Warren Stamping plant in suburban Detroit, told reporters from the World Socialist Web Site Autoworker Newsletter on Saturday. Workers have to understand what one automaker does, the rest are going to do too. We have to stop this, or well all be out of jobs.

Momentum is building for the meeting in Detroit Sunday, December 9 at 2 p.m. to oppose General Motorss plans to shut down three major assembly plants in Detroit; Lordstown, Ohio; and Oshawa, Ontario, and eliminate more than 14,000 hourly and salaried jobs by next year. The giant automaker has also announced the closing of transmission plants in Baltimore, Maryland; Warren, across from the Fiat Chrysler (FCA) stamping plant; plus two other plants, yet unnamed, outside of North America. Jobs will also be cut at a GM facility in Brownstown, Michigan.

More than one thousand newsletters with information about the meeting were distributed by supporters of the Socialist Equality Party (SEP) and its youth movement, the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE), at GM, Ford and FCA plants in the Detroit area over the weekend. Autoworkers from Lordstown, Kokomo, Indiana and other locations are planning to travel to Detroit for Sundays meeting.

Campaigners explained that the SEP is calling on workers to form rank-and-file factory committees, independent of the United Auto Workers (UAW), to link up autoworkers and broader sections of workers to fight the plant closings and prevent the further devastation of their communities. The right to a good-paying and secure job, they told workers, should be non-negotiable. Sundays meeting will discuss a strategy to mobilize the working class to fight the closings and oppose all concession demands.

Im totally in favor of workers coming together, independent of the union, to fight the GM closings, Tanya, another Warren Stamping worker, said. These plant closings are not right. This is all about greed. The union sold us out a long time ago. [Former UAW Vice President] General Holiefield came down here a few years ago when we were opposing the ten-hour-a-day Alternative Work Schedule in order to shove it down our throats. I knew then that he was bought off, way before this corruption scandal broke.

The shutdown of the Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant, which already eliminated a shift in March 2017, wiping out 1,200 jobs, would have a particularly devastating effect. According to a report by Haven Life Insurance, cited by the Detroit Free Press, Detroit has the highest percentage of households led by a single parent in the United States. Many autoworkers are mothers raising their children, most on a single income, and the loss of a job would plunge the family into destitution.

Detroit topped the ranking of Americas 25 most populated cities, with nearly 72 percent of families headed by a single parent59.2 headed by a single mother, 12.3 by a single fathermore than twice the percentage for the US as a whole. Single-parent autoworkers would also have the hardest time uprooting their children and moving if GM tells them to accept a job 1,200 miles away in Arlington, Texas.

In addition to more than 6,000 hourly workers who are losing their jobs in Michigan, Ohio, Maryland and Ontario, GM is also forcing out more than 8,000 engineers, designers and other white-collar salaried workers through voluntary retirements or layoffs. Nearly all will be in metropolitan Detroit, largely at GMs technical center in Warren. Ford is expected to announce similar white-collar cutbacks soon; even if Fords cuts are half as much, the white-collar job cuts in the Detroit metropolitan area will approach those during the financial crisis of a decade ago, when the metro area shed 14,450 managerial and engineering jobs.

In an article Saturday headlined, Salaried workers beware: GM cuts are a warning for all, the Washington Post wrote that the once-reliable route to prosperity of obtaining a college degree and skilled salaried position appears to be vanishing. GMs announcement was a humbling warning that in this era of rapid and disruptive technological change, those with a college education are not necessarily insulated from the kind of layoffs factory workers know all too well.

Ivan Drury, senior manager of industry analysis at Edmunds, said workers should expect more job cuts and shift eliminations next year. Theres definitely more to come, but it depends on where GM places its bets for the future. More cuts are possible until the full plan is laid out, said Drury. In addition to the more than 14,00 job cuts, a conservative estimate is that another 35,000 jobs in supplier plants and service industries will be wiped out.

The plant shutdowns are also a shot across the bow of 140,000 GM, Ford and FCA workers who are determined to recoup lost income and fight for substantial improvements when their four-year labor agreements expire this summer. The industry publication Automotive News boasted last week that GM was changing the narrative from members wanting more to potentially just wanting to save jobs and plants.

Far from opposing the plant shutdowns, the UAW has made it clear it will aid the company in pitting Detroit and Lordstown workers against each other in a fratricidal struggle over which plant will close and which will remain open. In comments to the Detroit Free Press during a candlelight vigil in front of the Lordstown plant, UAW 1112 President David Green said: I am confident that Lordstown will get a new product because we have the best workers and the best plant in the world. Weve shown that, and weve shown flexibility to work with the corporation.

Within days of announcing the elimination of an entire shift and 1,500 jobs at the Lordstown plant last spring, GM announced that its subsidiary, known as the Lordstown GM Subsystems Manufacturing LLC, would be hiring low-paid temporary workers under an agreement the UAW signed behind the backs of rank-and-file workers. Green told the Free Press that the decision was unpopular, but that it kept the plant running.

Like every other concession handed over by the UAW over the last four decades in the name of job security, this one has had the same outcome. Workers have lost wages, health benefits, pensions and basic rights and not a single job has been saved. Instead billions in profits have been funneled into the bank accounts of corporate executives and Wall Street speculators, while a substantial portion has gone to business managers who run the UAW in the form of payments through joint labor-management training centers and other bribes.

At the same time, the UAW is joining with President Donald Trump and Democrats in Ohio and Michigan to blame the layoffs on workers in Mexico and other countries in order to drive a wedge between US workers and their class brothers and sisters around the world. In a video statement by UAW President Gary Jones, which did not bother to even mention the threatened shutdown of the Oshawa plant across the border in Canada, Jones railed against GM for producing cars in China, Mexico and Poland.

A GM worker from the Delta Township plant near Lansing, Michigan, told the WSWS: GM is exploiting workers in the US and all over the world, including Mexico where they pay such terrible wages. All of usUS, Canada and Mexicowe should be on the same page and fight together.

The workers at the plant think that GM made this announcement to set off a panic and try to force more older, higher paid workers to take buyouts, like the salaried workers, so they can replace them with lower-paid, second-tier and temporary workers. The company is making record profits, and they have been for the last eight years.

Our plant is running 9 hours a day, with six-day weeks, two times a month. They just forced all the temporary workers to work Sunday and they dont get double time because theyre only working four-day weeks. We barely have enough workers to keep up with the line speed and they have no intention of putting the third shift back. As far as management goes, they tell us this is the new norm and get used to it.

Whats the use of the UAW, it allows GM to do whatever it wants. Its like you dont have a union and youre just confronting the company by yourself. Theyre always talking about jointness with the company. But what the UAW is really saying is take it or leave it and be thankful you have a job.

The UAW doesnt defend our interests. They control billions of dollars in GM stock and the UAW executives just gave themselves a 31 percent raise. They raised our union dues four years ago and said it was to build up the strike fund, but they didnt call a strike. Instead of giving it back to the workers, theyre out spending it in Las Vegas and Palm Beach.On Friday, the Frankfurt public prosecutors office conducted a second raid on Germanys biggest bank, Deutsche Bank. The spokesperson for the investigating authority, Nadja Niesen, said that due to the extent of material, an additional search of the banks offices was necessary.

One day earlier, on Thursday, some 170 officials from the public prosecutors office, the federal police and the tax investigation branch had searched the headquarters of Deutsche Bank in Frankfurt-Main, four other branches of the bank in the city and in nearby Eschborn, and the private apartment of one of two accused bank officials.

The raids were related to suspicions of money laundering, Niesen said in a press statement. She added that at the moment, investigations were directed against two employees of the bank, 50 and 46 years old, and against other, as yet unidentified, responsible individuals at the bank.

It is clear that the raids were aimed at leading figures at the bank. The prosecutors office confirmed that raids had also taken place at the executive level.

The business newspaper Handelsblatt cited two persons familiar with the facts, who reported that, amongst others, the office of the official responsible for regulation and compliance, Sylvie Matherat, had been searched. According to the financial news on Germanys public ARD TV channel, the office of Deutsche Bank CEO Christian Sewing had also been searched. Sewing took over leadership of the bank in April of this year promising a new beginning.

It is now apparent that the banks previous criminal machinations continued under Sewings leadership. The investigations extend to the present. Niesen said that they relate at least to a period from 2013 to 2018 and have been in motion since August 2018.

The federal crimes office had evaluated data from the so-called Panama Papers and so-called offshore leaks, she added. And it was suspected that Deutsche Bank helped customers to establish so-called offshore companies in tax havens. From there funds are alleged to have flowed to Deutsche Bank, without the bank laying charges of suspected money laundering.

The Panama Papers (2016) and Offshore (2013) leaks are amongst the biggest ever leaks of insider information revealing corruption, money laundering and other fraudulent activities by banks, politicians and business people. The Panama Papers are based on 11.5 million confidential documents of the Panamanian company Mossack Fonseca. The documents provide detailed information on more than 214,000 offshore companies. German financial institutions and, above all, Deutsche Bank, played a central role in the legally dubious operations.

The Suddeutsche Zeitung commented Friday: If you look at how employees of German banks transferred their clients money to offshore paradises and then, according to the Panama Papers and other leaked data, used letterbox companies to disguise financial flows, one must conclude: It stinks to high heaven! And the stink is especially strong at Deutsche Bank.

According to the prosecutor, more than 900 customers, with a business volume of more than 300 million euros, are alleged to have been handled by a Deutsche Bank subsidiary based in the British Virgin Islands in 2016 alone. According to media reports, this subsidiary is Regula Limited, which, in the wake of the Panama Papers and Offshore leaks, is suspected of tax evasion and money laundering. Deutsche Bank severed its links with the company only at the end of March 2018.

The extent of criminal activity revealed in the Panama Papers and Offshore leaks, especially at Deutsche Bank, is breathtaking. For example, through its subsidiary in Singapore, Deutsche Bank set up 309 dummy companies and trusts. Up until 2007, Mossack Fonseca helped Deutsche Bank customers establish more than 400 front companies. The Deutsche Bank branch in Geneva maintained loan accounts for Nescoll Ltd. and Nielsen Ltd. until 2012. The two offshore companies at one point belonged to the daughter of Pakistani ex-prime minister Nawaz Sharif, now serving 11 years in prison for offences revealed in the Panama Papers.

Deutsche Bank is also involved in the ever-widening Danske case, the biggest money-laundering scandal in history. According to the Danish daily Berlingske, the Danish Danske Bank laundered 200 billion euros from Russia and former Soviet republics through its branch in Estonia between 2007 and 2015. The bulk of the money, about 130 billion euros, was forwarded from Estonia through Deutsche Bank.

And that is just the tip of the iceberg. Between 2010 and 2015, a total of seven raids took place at Deutsche Bank. Among other transgressions, the bank was suspected of tax evasion, making false statements, fraud and suspect stock transactions. According to a study by the London CCP Research Foundation, Deutsche Bank had to pay fines of more than $14 billion between 2010 and 2014. Several thousand lawsuits are still pending.

Deutsche Bank also played a leading role in the criminal machinations that triggered the 2008 global financial crisis. A US Senate report released in 2011 devoted an entire chapter to the bank, identifying it as one of the main culprits in the crisis, alongside US investment bank Goldman Sachs and Washington Mutual bank. The report also documented the complicity of the credit rating agencies Moodys and Standard & Poors, and the US banking regulator Office of Thrift Supervision.

The bank sold substandard assets and aggressively marketed high-risk collateralised debt obligations (CDOs). It did so despite, according to the Senate report, the negative opinion of its leading CDO trader, falling values and deteriorating markets. Investors were kept in the dark in order to keep the CDO machine going and earning high profits. The end result was multi-billion-dollar losses.

The World Socialist Web Site has analyzed how the increasingly criminal practices of Deutsche Bank were linked to its transformation into an investment bank. At the height of the Deutsche Bank crisis two years ago, the WSWS wrote:

For decades, it worked in close collaboration with key sections of German large-scale industry. But with the growth of global finance capital, this business model became increasingly unviable, and at the end of the 1980s Deutsche Bank sought to turn itself into a global investment bank and aggressively targeted its rivals, particularly US banks. Its criminal activities in the US sub-prime market, mirroring those of US competitors such as Goldman Sachs, were part of this process.

Ten years after capitalist governments rescued the banks worldwide with trillions of dollars and organized the largest redistribution of wealth from bottom to top in history, none of the causes that led to the financial crisis have been resolved or dealt with in any fashion. On the contrary, bankers and politicians have expanded their criminal activities, creating in the process the conditions for an even bigger crash.

The share value of Deutsche Bank collapsed last Thursday and the bank emerged as the DAX stock indexs biggest loser (minus 3.4 percent). On Friday, its shares lost another 2.86 percent and dropped to 8.06 euros, their lowest value in 38 years.

In a commentary at the start of last week with the apocalyptic title The Plunge into Hell, the Suddeutsche Zeitung warned: Should the rating agencies downgrade further papers, there is the threat of a big bang. The newspaper noted that almost 50 percent of corporate bonds in the US and Europe already belong to junk bond category. Even more monstrous, it wrote, is the balance, if you look at the volume of these papers: ten years ago in the US there were about $800 billion of such dubious bonds, this mountain now exceeds three trillion dollars.Last Friday, around 2,000 high school students in Newcastle, a New South Wales port city 160 kilometres north of Sydney, took part in a national strike against the refusal of governments to address climate change.

Like rallies on the same day in Sydney, Melbourne and other areas, the Newcastle protest was attended by high school students of varying ages, along with parents and teachers.

In addition to expressing their anger over environmental destruction, students spoke out against war, social inequality and the turn to authoritarianism. Newcastle has been hard hit by decades of job cuts, and the closure of entire industries. As in other regional centres, youth face a future of insecure and casual work, unemployment and associated social problems.

Part of the Newcastle rally

Campaigners from the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) at Newcastle University distributed hundreds of statements at the protest, explaining that climate change is the product of a systemic crisis of the global capitalist system and calling for a turn to the working class.

The IYSSE stressed that the danger of climate change could only be resolved through the socialist re-organisation of the world. It warned against the attempts by Labor and the Greens to channel the emerging movement behind parliament and the political establishment responsible for the degradation of the environment.

In Newcastle, James, a year 10 student, told IYSSE campaigners: Were here to display a message, to get the word out there. Im disappointed that the people in charge havent taken climate change seriously.

I had hoped that the people might be able to elect someone who could make a difference, but I dont think thats going to happen.

The people in power arent going to do anything to stop climate change, war or inequality. Young and old, students and workers all over the world need to come together, see that theres a problem and form their own movement to fight to resolve it.

Serina and Jessica

Serina said: Climate change doesnt just affect a small group of people in Newcastle, it affects everyone. The government doesnt respond because they want to make a profit and industries such as coal are profitable for them. The mainstream media pushes the idea that young people are lazy and dont want to take any action because they want to discourage us from fighting back and speaking out.

Jessica added: All the evidence shows that climate change is real and is a problem. It comes back to profit. The government doesnt have any interest in improving conditions for the majority of people.

Jayden and Eduardo, year 12 students, said they were increasingly attracted to socialism. Jayden commented: We debate all the time about socialism. We look at things regarding socialism in our spare time when we arent studying for school. We both definitely agree that the capitalist system is not beneficial to the world or humanity, whether in third world countries or here.

It is a human right that we have a sustainable world to protect the environment for future generations. Governments dont have a plan for sustaining multiple generations and preserving the environment.

Its because they make money from the use of natural resources. Theyre greedy. They do it to benefit themselves and their friends: the CEOs, managers and heads of massive companies that get paid a lot of money.

Eduardo added: The richest people in the world are hoarding trillions of dollars, its insane. I read a report earlier this year that over half of the world is in extreme poverty. There is a small number of people living with obscene wealth, while so many people are starving without adequate clothes, shelter and medicine

Jayden and Eduardo

Imogen, a year 10 student, said: Theres a massive problem that we have in our society and our political system. We have a right to protest, to protect our generation and our childrens future as well. This is our home, this is our planet and they are not doing anything about it. They are consumed by their own personal ambition, building themselves up and pushing all of us down.

Its ridiculous that Jeff Bezos of Amazon has $160 billion. That money could be going to much better sources and providing for people.

Imogen, Ed and Sam

I think a plan should be put in place to stop using fossil fuels. We have the resources to create renewable energy. Why cant we have solar panels on the roofs of every single building in the world? The money exists for this to happen.

Her friend Sam said: The money owned by the top 10 percent, the wealthiest people in the world could resolve a lot of societys problems. It could provide decent food, water and shelter for the world population.

Sam opposed denunciations of the student strike made by senior figures in the federal Liberal-National Coalition government, including Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Morrison raised that were becoming activists, Im thinking, whats wrong with us being activists, Sam said. This is a major issue. Theres a problem with the environment and we want to speak up about it.

The protest in Maitland

At a smaller rally in Maitland, close to Newcastle, Steph, a 17-year-old student said she could not believe Morrisons remarks belittling young people. It was just pure ignorance. The government obviously sees these strikes as a real threat. The mining companies are some of the biggest donors to the Liberal Party.

Gener, a parent whose child participated in the Maitland rally, said: The system we live under is pillaging the planet. We used to live in Darwin, and when flying over to the east coast we saw the scarring of the mining. Its like an open wound. We need to overhaul the whole system. Right now, were driven by money values.This resolution was unanimously adopted by the Fourth National Congress of the Socialist Equality Party in Britain, which was held October 27-30, 2018. It is being published in three parts. This is the first part.

To join the Socialist Equality Party, click here.

The resurgence of the class struggle and the tasks of the Socialist Equality Party (UK)

1. The world situation is characterised by an immense crisis of the capitalist profit system and acute social and political discontent. All the measures taken to offset the 2008 financial crash and bailout the super-rich, through the imposition of permanent austerity, have changed class relations irrevocably. Capitalism is increasingly discredited, as many recognise that the present economic system is fatally flawed and in need of drastic remedyeven if they do not yet understand how this should be done. This is finding expression in a global resurgence in the class struggle, which immediately involves a conflict with the traditional political mechanisms of class ruleespecially the labour and trade union bureaucracy. In response, the bourgeoisie is aligning the state apparatus more directly with the interests of the financial oligarchy, turning towards police state methods and deliberately cultivating far-right forces. As imperialism spirals into protectionism, trade war and militarism, the conditions associated with the 1930s are returning, at an even more advanced and explosive level.

2. The ever-tightening grip of the financial oligarchy and its ultra-wealthy periphery over the worlds resources threatens the survival of humanity and the planet. Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos is now the richest person in history, at $150 billion and rising, with his wealth ballooning last year alone by $35.1 billionmore than one million times the average pay of an Amazon employee. The top 10 percent of society owns over 70 percent of total wealth, while the bottom half of the worlds population3.5 billion peopleowns less than 2 percent. In 2017, nearly all the growth in global wealth72 percentwent to the top one percent, while the bottom 50 percent received nothing. The vast majority of the worlds population toils under conditions of poverty, hunger and disease. But calls for even a modest reallocation of resources to meet social needs meets furious resistance from a financial elite that enforces its dictates through the official political parties, trade unions and the mainstream media. Capitalist democracy is a fraud, a cover for the rule of the billionaires. Social and political discontent is routinely dismissed as the outcome of fake news, conspiracy theories, and foreign meddling by state actorsusually Russiato be dealt with by intimidation, censorship and repression.

3. The fundamental contradictions within capitalismbetween socialised production and the private ownership of the means of production; and between a global economy and the division of the world into antagonistic nation statesis fuelling trade war, military rearmament and the threat of a third world war, fought with nuclear weapons. The ruling elite in every country is embracing nationalism, authoritarianism and fascistic reaction. Writing in the 1930s, five years before the outbreak of World War II, Leon Trotsky explained that the interdependence of every country in the global economy meant that the programme of economic nationalism was a reactionary utopia insofar as it set itself the task of harmonious national economic development on the basis of private property. But it is a menacing reality insofar as it is a question of concentrating all the economic forces of the nation for the preparation of a new war. (War and the Fourth International)

4. The epicentre of the eruption of imperialist violence is the United States, which is seeking to counter its economic decline and the challenge from rival powers by asserting its dominance over the Eurasian landmass. The fascistic bully in the White House embodies the criminality and parasitism of the entire US ruling class. Recklessly destabilising the institutions through which the US exercised its hegemony in the post-war period, President Donald Trump enacts trade war measures targeting much of the globeincluding Americas European allieswhile issuing bellicose threats of war against China, North Korea and Iran. His efforts to cultivate a fascistic movement at home, through nationalist demands for America First and the mass round-up of immigrants, is directly responsible for the massacre at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, the largest act of anti-Semitic violence in US history. Notwithstanding the civil war in the American state apparatus, his Democratic Party opponents are no less reactionary. Their utilisation of sex scandals to effect a change in the White House expresses their own contempt for democratic rights. As the political mouthpiece for the CIA and the Pentagon, their conflict with Trump is over foreign policywhether the US war drive should be directed, in the first instance, against Russia or China.

5. Trumps presidency marks an unprecedented deterioration in post-war relations between the US and Europe, above all with Germany. Americas post-war relationship with Europe between 1945 and 1991 was determined by the overriding need to enforce the isolation of the Soviet Union and prevent social revolution, at a time when the European working class was extremely militant and highly politicised. Now, powerful tendencies within the US ruling elite have concluded that the dissolution of the Soviet Union means there is no longer any reason to prop up the European bourgeoisie, who are viewed as strategic competitors and rivals. Trump praised Britains decision to exit from the European Union (EU), which he denounced as a vehicle for German domination, declaring the NATO alliance obsolete. Regardless of the notes of caution by leading Democrats, the US is being objectively driven into conflict with Europe as it seeks to counter the threat to its global hegemony posed by the rise of China and other rivals.

6. The European ruling elites are responding to this geostrategic shift by preparing their own challenge to the US, seeking an end to their military subordination to Washington. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas (Social Democratic Party) says it is necessary to recalibrate the NATO alliance and build the EU as a counterweight to the US. French President Macron and German Chancellor Merkel agree that the US can no longer be relied on as an ally and have called for the development of a genuinely European army to protect European interests. However, their ability to formulate such a coordinated response is undermined by the deepening of national antagonisms, which the EU only held in abeyance but never overcame. The corollary of Trumps America First agenda is demands to put Britain First, Germany First and France First, portending the fracturing of Europe into competing power blocs.

7. The project of European unification under capitalism is being stripped of its liberal pretensions. Right-wing movements are being assembled as a shock force against the working class, and the doors of state office thrown open to the likes of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) and Italys Lega. Seven decades after the death of Hitler, the fascistic AfD is the main opposition party in the German parliament. Despite receiving just 12.6 percent of the vote, it sets the tone in federal politics, while its supporters physically attack immigrants, Muslims and Jews with impunity, because of the tacit support of the Grand Coalition and the highest echelons of the state. In Poland, the government marches alongside neo-Nazis, while in France, President Macron pays tribute to the leader of the Nazi collaborationist Vichy regime, Marshal Petain. Alongside the attack on workers jobs, wages and living standards goes the brutal reinforcement of national borders, as migrants fleeing unending wars of western intervention are left to drown in the Mediterranean or herded into prison-camps. The official parties and media pollute society with the poison of anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim xenophobia, while demanding an increase in military budgets.

8. Brexit was only an initial expression of this disintegration of the post-war European order. Having seized on the 2016 referendum to try and settle a factional conflict within the right-wing of the Tory Party and its fringes, the unexpected vote to leave the EU has provoked an existential crisis for the British bourgeoisie. Throughout the post-war period, the ruling elite sought to offset the decline of Empire through the transatlantic alliance, acting as a bridge between the US and Europe, at the centre of which was NATO. The growing divide between Washington and Europes capitalsespecially Berlinmeans this balance can no longer be sustained. Whatever their differences over foreign policy, all factions of the ruling class and its political parties are united in their determination to try and resolve this crisis through a ratcheting up of militarism, paid for by the gutting of social and democratic rights. The fate of the working class, not only in Britain, but across Europe, once again hangs in the balance. The continent that was the crucible for two world wars and the extermination of European Jewry is once again being torn asunder.

9. These conditions are driving forward a renewed interest in socialism, which the ruling elites believed they had banished to the history books, thanks to the crimes of Stalinism and the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Internationally, the decades-long suppression of the class struggle is being challenged by a revival of militant protests and strikes. This includes anti-austerity protests in Iran, strikes throughout China, India, Latin America and the Middle East, and state-wide action by educators in the US. In Europe, coordinated walk-outs by Ryanair and Amazon workers express the elemental striving by the working class to internationalise its struggle against global corporations. In Britain, after industrial disputes hit a record low in 2017, this year saw a spate of actions, including by rail workers, lecturers and council employees, and a doubling of disputes in the private sector to a 20-year high. The greatest threat to the bourgeoisie and its plans is the development of the political understanding, in wide sections of the working class, above all the youth, that its enemy is the entire capitalist system.

10. Whether the working class can rise to its historic task of socialist revolution in time, or be crushed by reaction, will be decided in the course of the class struggle. The decisive role will be played by the Marxist party. In its resolution, The resurgence of the class struggle and the Tasks of the Socialist Equality Party, the Fifth National Congress of the SEP (US) recognised:

The relation between the objective crisis of the global capitalist system and the class consciousness of the working class is not static, but dynamic. There will be no shortage of explosive eventsabove all, those arising out of the actual experience of class conflictthat will undermine traditional beliefs and radicalize social consciousness. Only a Marxist party, conditioned by theoretical insight and historical knowledge, can detect, analyze and prepare for the deep-rooted processes that will suddenly assume the form of mass revolutionary struggles. The task of the revolutionary party, therefore, is not to speculate as to whether a revolutionary movement can be built. What can and cannot be achieved will be determined in struggle

Within this historical situation, the revolutionary party is itself an immense factor in determining the outcome of the objective crisis. An evaluation of the objective situation and realistic appraisal of political possibilities, which excludes the impact of the intervention of the revolutionary party, is utterly alien to Marxism. The Marxist revolutionary party does not merely comment on events, it participates in the events that it analyzes, and, through its leadership in the struggle for workers power and socialism, strives to change the world.

The 80th anniversary of the Fourth International

11. The fight for a socialist alternative to the prevailing capitalist chaos must be informed by historical knowledge. The answer to questions such as What is socialism? Can it be achieved, and by what methods? requires an understanding of the strategic lessons of the 20th century. At the centre of the Socialist Equality Partys active intervention in the class struggle, therefore, must be educating workers and youth in the history of the Fourth International, founded 80 years ago in September 1938 by Leon Trotsky, to take forward the struggle for world socialism against Stalinism, Social Democracy and all forms of pseudo-left politics. Trotskyism is the Marxism of the 21st century, led for 65 years by the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI). Contained in its history and in the programme and perspective of the ICFI are all the essential prerequisites for international socialist revolution.

12. The founding document of the Fourth International, The Transitional Programme, began by insisting, The world political situation as a whole is chiefly characterized by a historical crisis of the leadership of the proletariat. The struggle for the Fourth International was precipitated by the most terrible event of the 20th centurythe coming to power of fascism in Germany. Its formation was prepared by the struggle initiated by Trotsky in 1923, with the formation of the Left Opposition to oppose the bureaucratic degeneration of the Bolshevik Party and the Soviet regime. Under the anti-Marxist banner of building socialism in one country, the Stalinist bureaucracy subordinated the fight for world socialism to the defence of its own material interests and privileges. Trotskys struggle assumed international dimensions as Stalins disastrous policies led to defeats, including the British General Strike in 1926 and the Chinese revolution in 1927.

13. The refusal of the Third International to permit any discussion of the policies of the German Communist Party, which had enabled Hitler to take power without a shot being fired, signified that it had passed irrevocably into the camp of reaction. This was followed by the betrayal of the 1936 Spanish revolution and the wave of counter-revolutionary terror within the Soviet Union. In the fight against centrist tendencies, which refused to break decisively with Stalinism and social democracy, Trotsky warned that the Soviet bureaucracys role as an instrument of imperialism within the workers movement threatened the very existence of the Soviet Union as a degenerated workers state. Unless overthrown in political revolution, the Stalinist counter-revolution would end in the restoration of capitalism.

14. Trotskys prognosis was vindicated by the events in the Soviet Union, Eastern Europe, China and Vietnam between 1989 and 1991. The Stalinist bureaucracies liquidated the nationalised property relations on which these states rested, and reconstituted themselves as the new bourgeoisie, turning the masses over to imperialism for super-exploitation. History delivered its verdict on all the anti-Trotskyist tendencies that broke from the Fourth International and which, in one form or another, ascribed an enduring historical legitimacy to Stalinism and opposed the fight for the political independence of the working class.

15. The Shachtmanite opponents of Trotsky in 1940 rejected the defence of the Soviet Union against imperialism, declaring that it represented a new form of state-capitalism, headed by a new class of exploiters. In 1953, the Fourth International came under renewed revisionist attack, led by Michel Pablo and Ernest Mandel. In a seeming reversal of the Shachtmanite line, they claimed that the Stalinist bureaucracies in the Soviet Union, and the regimes established in Eastern Europe and China at the end of the Second World War, could be driven objectively towards the realisation of socialism under pressure from the working class. Both tendencies therefore assigned a world historic role to the Stalinist bureaucracy. Having excluded any role for the Fourth International and the independent revolutionary struggle of the working class, the Pabloites later also hailed Castro in Cuba, Ben Bella in Algeria, and a host of similar bourgeois nationalist and petty-bourgeois radical movements, as blunted instruments through which capitalism could be overthrown.

16. The issuing of the Open Letter in 1953 by the leader of the American Trotskyists, James P. Cannon, and the establishment of the ICFI, was critical in ensuring the continuity of Trotskyism. But the split heralded a protracted civil war within the Fourth International between the orthodox Trotskyists and various strains of Pabloism. Behind the theoretical disputes were opposing class interests. The role of the petty-bourgeoisie as a political and social buffer between the working class and the bourgeoisie was greatly strengthened during the post-war boom. The continued domination of the workers movement by the Stalinist, social democratic and trade union bureaucracies, and the expansion of welfare states, suppressed socialist consciousness and created conditions favourable to petty-bourgeois opportunism. The pressure this exerted led, in the 1970s, to the retreat of the Workers Revolutionary Party (WRP), the ICFIs British section, from the principled struggle it had previously conducted against Pablo and Mandel in 1953, and in opposition to the American Socialist Workers Partys reunification with the Pabloites in 1963.

17. The political and theoretical opposition led by the Workers League (predecessor of the Socialist Equality Party in the US) between 1982 and 1986 to the WRPs Pabloite course won the support of the ICFI majority. The split with the WRP between December 1985 and February 1986 represented the decisive victory of the orthodox Trotskyists. It coincided with the final stage of the terminal crisis of the Stalinist regimes, the repudiation by the social democratic parties and trade unions of any defence of the interests of the working class, and the abandonment of the anti-imperialist struggle by the bourgeois nationalists.

18. The objective processes which underpinned the crisis of these agencies of imperialism strengthened the position of the International Committee and its relationship to the working class. In the aftermath of the split, the International Committee drew on the wealth of Marxist theory, as distilled in the history of the Trotskyist movement, to initiate a process of political clarification and organisational development. Drawing the most far-reaching conclusions from the decay of the old nationally-based parties and trade unions, the ICFI recognised that the Trotskyist movement must prepare to advance itself as the leadership of a new revolutionary upsurge of the working class.

This was the basis for the decision to end the previous league forms of the International Committees sections, and to establish the Socialist Equality Parties. The establishment of the World Socialist Web Site in February 1998 enabled the ICFI to utilise the revolutionary potential of the Internet to vastly expand the audience for revolutionary Marxism and the political influence of the Trotskyist movement globally. By virtue of its principles, programme and history, the International Committee of the Fourth International is now the critical force in uniting the world working class through the building of the World Party of Socialist Revolution.

To be continuedA former Dallas police officer was indicted on a murder charge almost three months after fatally shooting her neighbor in his apartment. Amber Guyger, 30, told investigators she entered Botham Jeans apartment by accident last September, believing it was her own, and opened fire upon encountering Jean.

Guyger, who at the time of the shooting was a member of the police force, was returning home from her shift still in uniform. According to her testimony, she mistook Jeans apartment for her own, which was a floor above. Seeing that the door was slightly ajar and opened when she tried to unlock it, she claims to have thought Jean was a burglar and shot him after issuing commands. Soon after the incident, Guyger was arrested and terminated by the Dallas police department. The Texas Rangers charged Guyger with manslaughter and opened an investigation.

The circumstances of the shooting led to many questions and sparked outrage. According to court documents, Guyger fired her service weapon twice, striking Jean in the torso. He later died at the hospital. Critics, including Jeans family, wondered why it took three days for Guyger to be charged, why she was not taken into custody immediately after the shooting and whether race played a factor in her decision to use deadly force.

Many believed the original manslaughter charge. Protesters rallied for weeks calling for Ms. Guyger to be charged with murder, demanding justice in front of Dallas Police headquarters as well as at a city council meeting. Additional protests were held after Guyger posted a $300,000 bond just hours after she was arrested while some protesters were jailed for two days.

Lawyers for Jeans family insisted that his door was closed and that neighbors had heard someone banging on the door, demanding to be let in, before they heard gunshots fired.

Guygers indictment marks the second Texas officer to be charged or found guilty of murder this year. Such an occurrence is rare in the United States. Less than 10 non-federal officers have been found guilty of murder since 2005, yet officers kill an average of three people a day. This year saw the first police murder conviction in the state of Texas since 1973.

One can only speculate on what influenced the string of decisions that culminated in Guygers indictment. The decision likely indicates a fear of further public outrage. Local police already caused an outcry when they deployed pepper balls on demonstrators a week after the shooting. The authorities may feel they are on thin ice.

Dallas Police Chief U. Renee Hall released a public statement announcing cosmetic measures intended to mollify social discontent, such as a revamped Citizens Review Board, while declaring that the Dallas police force still continues to feel anguish about this difficult and tragic event.

Botham Jeans mother, Allison Jean, said during a news conference that shes satisfied with the murder indictment. Guyger inflicted tremendous evil on my son, she said. He didnt deserve it. He was seated in his own apartment. He felt safe and he was violated by her coming in and murdering him.

When asked why the grand jury indicted Guyger on the more serious offense of murder, Dallas County District Attorney Faith Johnson replied, We presented the evidence and we explained the law. Johnson clarified the implications of the sentencing, saying murder constitutes someone intentionally and knowingly committing a crime, whereas manslaughter involves recklessly doing something.

At the moment of the shooting it was a knowing ... offense, she said. Guyger faces a sentence ranging from five years in prison to life.Under intense pressure from President Trump and the US delegation and the threat that they would blow up the meeting, the G20 managed to reach an agreement on the communique issued from the leaders summit held in Buenos Aires over the weekend.

This was followed by a deal between Trump and Chinas President Xi Jinping for a temporary ceasefire in the escalating trade war between the worlds number one and number two economies.

However, it is a measure of the state of relations between the worlds major economic powers that the summit was labelled a limited success because a form of words was found to ensure it did not end in open conflict as did the G7 meeting in June. The APEC summit last month concluded without agreement and issued no final statement.

The Wall Street Journal reported that, at one point, European negotiators believed the talks would fall apart. They had seen reports that the US National Security Adviser John Bolton, a key figure in the Trump administration, was considering pulling out of the G20 summit statement.

The major differences were not resolved, however, only papered over.

The main issue in drafting the communique centred on excluding any reference to resist protectionism that had been a routine part of G20 statementseven though it has been increasingly honoured in the breachsince the organisation became the main world economic forum in wake of the 2008 global financial crisis.

The statement pledged to work to improve a rules-based order that is capable of effectively responding to a rapidly changing world after the US secured the removal of references to multilateralism.

The statement did recognise the contribution of the multilateral trading system to global growth, but then added: The system is currently falling short of its objectives and there is room for improvement. We therefore support the necessary reform of the WTO [World Trade Organisation] to improve its functioning.

Progress on the reform will be reviewed at the G20 summit to be held in Osaka, Japan, next June.

The demand for reform of the WTO was at the insistence of the US, which claims that the global trade body has dealt with the US unfairly, and has benefited China. Washington wants the rules changed to enable action over what it claims are the appropriation of intellectual property rights, either by theft or forced technology transfers, and the market-distorting state subsidies to Chinese industries.

The other key points of conflict were climate change and refugees. The communique called the Paris climate agreement irreversible but included a paragraph stating that the United States reiterates its decision to withdraw.

On the issue of refugees, the statement, at the insistence of the US, withdrew references to the role of multilateral organisations in playing a part in dealing with the issue and the responsibility of wealthier countries to mitigate the problems.

Under the deal reached between Trump at Xi at the conclusion of the summit, the US agreed to suspend the escalation of tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10 percent to 25 percent, which had been scheduled to come into effect next January, for three months.

Under the agreement, China agreed to purchase a very substantial amount of US farm, energy and industrial products in order to reduce the trade gap between the two countries. But this deal does not address the core conflict. China had already agreed to make such purchases back in May in talks between Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Chinas vice premier and chief trade negotiator Liu He but the agreement was overturned by Trump a few days later as not being sufficient.

The key issue remains US opposition to Chinas efforts to expand its technological and industrial base under its Made in China 2025 plan and investment under its Belt and Road Initiative, all of which the US regards as a threat to its economic and military supremacy.

The US position was again set out in a 53-page report prepared by the office of US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer ten days before the Trump-Xi meeting. It accused China of continuing to organise state-backed theft of intellectual property and technology, downplayed moves by China to ease foreign investment restrictions and raised concerns over its Made in China 2025 policy.

These issues will be the subject of talks over the next three months, with the US threatening to go ahead with the imposition of higher tariffs if it is not satisfied with the outcome.

The US decision to put off the tariff hike did not signify an end to the conflict but was a tactical manoeuvre as it seeks what it calls structural changes in the Chinese economy, not merely the purchasing of more American exports.

One of the main considerations appears to have been to provide more time to ensure that the European Union and Japan, as well as other countries, come on side with Washington in its push against Chinas industrial development.

Trade manoeuvres by the Trump administration over recent months point in this direction.

The US Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA), replacing the North America Free Trade Agreement and signed at the G20 summit, was aimed, at least in part, at unifying North America for a push against China. Significantly the USMCA deal contained a provision that parties should not agree to free trade deals with Chinaan unprecedented third party intervention in trade agreements.

The US has also struck agreements for bilateral discussions with both the European Union and Japan. Both had opposed such negotiations but then agreed under the threat that failure to do so would see the imposition of auto tariffs of up to 25 percent on national security grounds. In the lead-up to the G20 meeting, there was concern among EU negotiators that Trump was again threatening to go ahead with the auto tariffs.

When the trade war against China was launched, the Trump administration came under criticism, not for its anti-China measures as such, but for the way it was proceeding, which was repelling potential allies that also have grievances with Beijing. The temporary tariff pull-back is in line with efforts to secure wider support, as reflected in the G20 communique for discussions on reform of the WTO, for which the US will seek support from other major powers as it targets China.

On the European side, the decision appears to have been taken to try to accommodate US demands at the G20 lest an open split lead to the imposition of the threatened US auto tariffs.

The position of the European powers was summed up by the French President Emmanuel Macron, who noted that Trump did not express any dissenting opinion. His team negotiated, he was present, and we will keep moving forward, Macron said. In other words, they did not poke at the bear and the bear did not snarl back at them.

Another consideration in the China decision was concerns over the impact on global financial markets of proceeding with higher tariffs. Trump first raised the prospect of talks with Xi at the G20 at the beginning of November following a significant market sell-off in October. Since then markets, especially the hi-tech companies, have been highly sensitive to the prospect of tariff measures because of their effect on sales and global supply chains.

Following the Trump-Xi meeting both sides put their own positive spin on the outcome.

Today is a great day for the United States, a senior administration official is reported to have said in a background briefing at the end of the summit. Across the board it was a resounding success.

In China, an editorial in the state-owned Global Times, noted for its more strident comments on US policy, said the agreement had momentous significance. The official Xinhua news agency said the tariff relief showed the two sides could work together. But as the Wall Street Journal reported, absent from Chinese media reports was the fact that the US had imposed a 90-day limit for negotiations on its demands for the far-reaching changes in the structure of the Chinese economy.

On the US side these changes, which seek to reduce China to a kind of semi-colonial status, are regarded as essential if it is to maintain global economic dominance. Beijing, however, regards any back-down as highly dangerous because it would undermine the entire regime. The trade and economic conflict between the worlds two major economic powers has not been overcome but is entering a potentially more explosive stage.Faced with falling poll numbers, Andrea Nahles, leader of the German Social Democratic Party (SPD), has raised the issue of reforming Germanys Hartz IV labour laws. At a so-called SPD debate camp, which dealt with the large loss of votes in the previous state election, she declared in mid-November, We will leave Hartz IV behind us.

What exactly should be changed in the Hartz laws remains completely unclear. Nahles spoke vaguely of civil insurance, while Green Party leader Robert Habeck alluded to basic security for the needy. With Agenda 2010, which includes the Hartz laws, an extensive low-wage sector has been created over the past decade-and-a-half. Several social scientists have long held that Agenda 2010 has put so much pressure on workers to accept low-wage jobs that some of the bureaucratic coercive measures are no longer needed.

However, several members of the SPD executive committee have stressed that the Hartz principle of promoting and demanding shall be maintained.

The SPD is concerned only with cosmetics and a possible change of name, because Hartz IV is now associated with mass poverty, state harassment, cheap wages and social inequality. The Hartz laws have become the focus of growing social outrage within the population.

One of the first to speak up to defend the hated Hartz laws against such a token change is Reiner Hoffmann, president of the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB). He told the Funke-Mediengruppe that he could not comprehend the hyperventilating around Hartz IV.

It is not a good idea to end the coercion of unemployed people, he said, because work is participatory and important for social cohesion. Hartz IV, according to Hoffmann, contributed significantly to reducing unemployment and increasing the number of employees.

Reading this, one could easily mistake the chairman of the German Trade Union Confederation for the head of the German Labor Front (DAF), founded in 1935 by the Nazis. The DAF leader and Reichsleiter of the Nazi Party Robert Ley similarly spoke of the peoples community and the necessary coercion of workers.

The fact that Hoffmann defends the Hartz laws and justifies the associated coercive measures is proof that the unions no longer have anything to do with the defense of workers interests. These are bureaucratic apparatuses that enforce massive wage and social cuts in the interests of the government and the ruling capitalist class.

There is not sufficient space here to describe the social decline that has taken place since the introduction of the Hartz laws in January 2005 by the then-SPD-Green federal government. However, a few citations from a labour market report published this month by the DGB itself provide an indication.

The report explains that normal job positions have been massively reduced in favor of precarious employment. The number of full-time employees covered by social insurance has stagnated since 2003. At the same time, so-called atypical employment has risen from 14.1 million to 22.2 million. The atypical employment group consists of part-time workers, fixed-term workers, marginal workers and self-employed and subcontract workers.

This has vast repercussions for those who fall under the category of so-called typical employment. They are being pressured by the fear of job loss to make concessions to their employers, the DGB notes.

The DGB study states the following regarding the atypical group: Precarious work has led to a drastic increase in the low-wage sector. In Germany it is larger than in all other countries of Western Europe. Some 1.2 million workers earn so little that they depend on Hartz IV.

Many people are poor, even though they are gainfully employed. The sanction threat in the Hartz IV relationship has a disciplining effect on all jobseekers ... Jobseekers know that they will be sanctioned if they turn down a job (e.g., because it is under-paid) and therefore cannot freely and confidently negotiate wages and working conditions with employers. The obligation to accept practically any job also acts as an engine of precarious employment.

In 2016, 22.7 percent of all employees in Germany worked for hourly wages that fell short of the minimum wage (10.50 euros). Many employees are shuttling from job to job, the report states. Fixed-term employment can persist for years. The number of fixed-term contracts rose from 1.66 million before the Hartz IV reform to 3.15 million last year.

In 2017, temporary work in Germany reached a peak of over one million employees The probability of switching to regular employment even after five years of temporary employment is only 35 percent.

So much for Hoffmanns talk of participatory work!

In particular, work contracts entail a high risk of exploitation for low-income workers ... easily replaceable jobs are outsourced by contract work. This will further create an additional pay gap.

According to the DGB study, the largest precariously employed group is the mini-job sector, with 7.5 million current employees. The report continues: 4.7 million mini-job seekers are only marginally employed, including 2.7 million between the standard working ages of 25 to 64. In addition, there is a massive expansion of part-time workers.

The study is silent on the fact that it was the unions that largely drafted the Hartz laws. Union representatives sat alongside those from business and the federal government in a commission headed by Peter Hartz, after whom the laws were named.

Members of the commission included Peter Gasse (SPD), then district manager of the IG Metall union (IGM) in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW); his predecessor Harald Schartau (SPD), who was minister of labor and social affairs in NRW; and Isolde Kunkel-Weber from the federal executive of the Verdi union.

Peter Hartz himself was and still is an IGM and SPD member. He subsequently became the personnel manager of Volkswagen. He remained in this post until 2005, when a corruption scandal surfaced that implicated him in embezzlement and favoritism involving works councils. He received a two-year prison sentence and a fine of 576,000 euros.

Under the SPD-Green coalition government headed by Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, the unions merged completely with the state and implemented Agenda 2010s social attacks against the resistance of many workers. It was therefore no coincidence that the then-chairman of IG Metall, Berthold Huber, celebrated his 60th birthday in 2010 in the Berlin Chancellery, at the invitation of the head of government.

Since then, cooperation between the unions and the federal government has become even closer. The DGB had argued long before the formation of the current government for a continuation of the grand coalition, although this government pursues the most right-wing domestic and foreign policies since the Nazi era. Hoffmann and the DGB leadership support military rearmament, the associated social cuts, and all measures to strengthen the competitiveness of the German economy against its international rivals.

Formerly an IGBE official, Hoffman studied economics at the expense of the union before becoming director of the European Trade Union Institute (EGI) in Brussels. A particularly repulsive trade union bureaucrat, he speaks for a social layer that fully identifies with the interests of German imperialism and hates and fears the working class.

His predecessor, Michael Sommer, supported the return of German superpower politics and maintained close contact with the German military (Bundeswehr). At that time, the DGB, in a joint declaration with the Bundeswehr, claimed that the unions and the Bundeswehr were both part of the peace movement. A short time later, the DGB participated in celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of the founding of the Bundeswehr.

The more the resistance grows to the ruling classs war policy and social attacks, the more openly the unions act as a force for law-and-order, while strengthening their alliance with big business and the state. This same is true for France, where protests against the gasoline tax are rapidly turning into a movement against the Macron government.

Six weeks ago, Hoffmann celebrated the centenary of the Stinnes-Legien Agreement, which established the so-called social partnership between the unions and the bourgeoisie. In November 1918, this pact between the capitalists, the government and the trade unions paved the way for the bloody suppression of the workers revolutionary uprisings, which refused to settle for the overthrow of the Kaiser and fought for workers power and socialism. The agreement set in motion the catastrophic process that culminated in the coming to power of the Nazis in 1933.

Today the unions are returning to this tradition. They are determined to use the same brutality against the working class.

Hence the latest statement from DGB headquarters, declaring that the trade union federation will no longer tolerate anti-fascist events on its premises. We are not Antifa and will not rent DGB premises to Antifa in the future, said Hoffmann on Tuesday, speaking before the congress of the police union (GdP) in Berlin. Hoffmann made it clear: the enemy is on the left.A house fire in rural Logansport, Indiana killed six members of a working class family during the early morning hours last Wednesday.

The tragedy claimed the lives of Joseph Huddleston, 42; his stepdaughter Brandi Vail, 25, and his daughter Kadee Huddleston, 10; as well as Vails three children, Swayzee Hite, 3; Rhylie Hite, 1; and Marshall Hite, 3 months. Huddlestons wife, Sheila, and his son, Brandon, escaped to safety when the blaze broke out and were taken to Logansport Memorial Hospital for treatment when officials arrived at the scene.

Brandi Vail, the mother of three of the children, had recently started a new job at S.U.S. Casting Products, an aluminum casting plant in Logansport before her death. A co-worker told the IndyStar that she was a dependable worker with a sweet personality and workers at the plant were collecting money for Vails brother Rory, who is also employed at S.U.S., and other surviving family members.

The fire was reported by a 911 call at 1:50 a.m. and remains under investigation by the Indiana State Fire Marshal and State Police.

While the exact cause is still under investigation, Indiana State Police Sgt. Tony Slocum told the press that after an inspection of the debris that there was no evidence that the fire had been set intentionally, nor were the stove or water heater the causes. He said that there was some evidence that the fire could have been caused by an electrical issue. Due to the level of destruction caused by the firethe home collapsed in the blazethe exact causes of the fire could be difficult to determine, authorities say.

Smoke and flames overwhelmed two sheriffs deputies who tried to break into the home to save the remaining family members, according to the IndyStar. Firefighters from Logansport and the surrounding area fought to control the flames for over five hours, an effort made difficult by the frigid temperatures and wind.

Additionally, it was reported that there were no fire hydrants in the area of the firepointing to the lack of funding for fire prevention and safety measures in rural areas. Firefighters had to bring their own tankers of water to the scene and ran out of water for five minutes during the early stages of their efforts.

The State Fire Marshal's office and the State Police reported that no working smoke detectors were found in the home after the investigation. David Hosick, spokesman of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security said it is difficult to determine if more of the family members would have been saved had there been working smoke detectors present. However, he noted that the presence of working smoke detectors greatly increases chances of survival in a home fire.

Two children perished in another house fire in Logansport two months earlier in the early morning hours of September 9 of this year. A third infant child survived and was airlifted to Riley Childrens Hospital for treatment after the childrens mother managed to jump out of the house with him in her arms. The fire was also believed to have been caused by electrical problems, specifically the homes electrical box.

According to 2016 data, Logansport has a median household income of $34,085, significantly lower than the median for the state of Indiana ($50,433) and the United States as a whole ($55,332). The poverty rate in the northern Indiana city is 19.4 percent, compared to 14.1 percent in the state of Indiana and 14 percent in the United States overall. The largest employer in the region is Tyson Foods, which owns and operates meatpacking plants in the area.

Duke Energy Corporation became Logansports primary energy supplier after the municipality closed its coal-powered plant, operated by Logansport Municipal Utilities, in January 2016, citing that it would be too expensive to operate the plant and meet the emissions goals proposed by the Obama administration. The Indiana Economic Digest reported that Duke had been trying to shut the plant down since 2010.

Duke Energy operates as a monopoly in North Carolina, where its headquarters is based, and derives most of its revenue from supplying most of the energy for large parts of the states of Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and South Carolina. In 2017, it reported $3.06 billion net income and $137.91 billion in total assets.

Duke has been guilty of several incidences of negligence in recent years, which have had catastrophic consequences for the defenseless victims. In February, 2014, a drainage pipe in a coal ash containment pond owned by Duke burst and sent 39,000 tons of coal ash into the Dan River in North Carolina, in addition to 27 million gallons of wastewater.

More recently, Duke showed its utter incompetence after Hurricane Florence hit North Carolina in September of this year. David Fountain, President of Duke Energy in North Carolina, stated that residents would be without power for Not days but weeks. We wont even be able to get to some areas for several days. The company also said that the flooding from the storm could cause coal ash flooding in the region and only agreed to clean up its coal ash pits by 2029.

The two fires in Logansport are part of a rash of deadly house fires that have swept the Midwest in recent months. In the early morning hours on August 26, a fire that killed 10 children broke out in the Little Village on Chicagos West Side. No working smoke detectors were found in the home, and residents still do not have answers as to the causes of the fire months later. Electrical problems were ruled out as a cause by city officials, but a resident who spoke to the World Socialist Web Site thinks otherwise, as the building had several violations on record, some due to electrical problems.

Though some 120 miles apart, the fires in Little Village and Logansport are undeniably similar in a number of ways. In both fires, the homes were not found to have working smoke detectors. Electrical issues are a definite possibility for cause in both fires. Both fires occurred in areas with large working-class populations that have borne the brunt of deindustrialization, with higher than average rates of poverty.

Making these connections shows that these house fires are not a result of any sort of racial discrimination, or an urban vs. rural issue. They are the result of the inability of the capitalist system to guarantee the basic needs of the working class, which include safe and affordable housing, reliable energy infrastructure and access to basic utilities. Energy giants like Duke must be expropriated by a coordinated effort of the working class and put under public control.

Workers in these industries, like the locked-out utility workers at National Grid in Massachusetts, must organize rank-and-file committees to fight for the nationalization of these industries, overthrow corporate control of these necessities and instead put them under workers control to be used to meet the needs of society, not private profit.Saturday evening, United Auto Workers Local 2335 announced that Lear Corporation auto parts workers in Hammond and Portage, Indiana voted to overwhelmingly reject a company- and union-backed deal for a second time. The ballot results were 311 against and 155 in favor, resulting in a no vote of approximately 67 percent, or over two to one.

We rejected this deal because it was the same thing as before, nothing changed, a worker at the Portage plant told the World Socialist Web Site Autoworker Newsletter, reflecting the broad opposition to the contract. The union and Lear must think we are stupid.

The vote is an act of tremendous courage by Lear workers, who have again defied the unions attempts to ram through a pro-corporate deal. It is an indication of the growing determination to fight back among the working class more broadly, after decades of concessions imposed by the companies with the assistance of the trade unions.

While the no vote is welcome and entirely deserved, a warning must be made: the company and the UAW will respond by intensifying their efforts to force workers to accept their terms.

No time must be lost! Workers should immediately initiate discussions to elect and organize rank-and-file factory committees across their plants, independent of the pro-corporate UAW, in order to carry forward the momentum of the no vote and prepare the groundwork for launching a genuine struggle.

Northwest Indiana Lear workerswho build seats for vehicles assembled at the nearby Chicago Ford plantfirst voted down the company-union-backed tentative agreement in October. While UAW Local 2335 officials claimed the deal would help us support our families with a better wage, the proposal in fact:

Maintained the hated multi-tier divisions between just-in-time and sub-assembly workers;





Entailed the extension of poverty wages, with starting pay for sub-assembly at an abysmal $13.50 at the beginning of the contract;





Significantly increased health care costs, with substantial rises in premiums, deductibles and other out-of-pocket expenses; and,





Failed to restore any of the concessions previously given up by the UAW, such as cost-of-living adjustments and pensions, among other retrogressive provisions.

In response to workers denunciations and anger at the proposal, the UAW doubled down on its attempts to keep workers in the dark about its negotiations with the company. At the same time, as workers increasingly turned to the WSWS, which alone has exposed the rotten character of the company-union agreement and sought to give workers a platform to voice and organize their opposition, the UAW launched a campaign of intimidation aimed at cowing workers into accepting the companys demands.

After claiming on November 9 that a supposedly new tentative agreement had been reached, the UAW made every attempt to keep workers divided, holding separate informative meetings about the deal for each shift at each plant. At the meetings, workers were disgusted to learn what they suspected: the new deal was essentially the same as the one they already rejected, with the addition of a few extra sweeteners.

Following the announcement of the ballot results, a number of workers posted celebratory comments on Facebook, while some expressed concern that the turnout was lower than the first ratification vote. However, if fewer workers went to the trouble of casting a ballot in the second vote, it is a measure of the disgust with which the UAW and its fraudulent bargaining process is viewed.

People were happy that it was voted down but also disappointed on the turnout, a worker at the Hammond plant said. But the word is that the people who didnt vote, didnt vote because they hated the contract.

We voted it down, and man, Im glad we did, because they basically didnt change anything in the contract, another worker at the Hammond plant said. Lears making money, but they dont want to give us anything that we can work on, let alone enough to raise a family.

Theyre just trying to not give us anything. Theyre not even trying to meet us halfway. I just think they think were a joke, and were just going to accept anything, and thats that. If we do a dollar fifty [raise over the life of the contract], that wouldnt even keep up with the cost of living.

Somethings got to change, he continued. Its to the point you cant even trust the UAW. As far as Im concerned, theyre in with Lear. Theyre taking money out of our checks and say theyre fighting for us, but theyre not.

I dont know where we go from here, but I stand with our no vote.

The unions little divide and conquer crap before the votes didnt work, the worker at Portage said. He pointed to the corrupt relationship between the union and the auto companies, in which the UAW has accepted millions of dollars of bribes from Fiat Chrysler to push through the demands of the corporations. I honestly think the UAWs role has been simple: they are trying to force an unfair deal down our throats so the company will continue to line their pockets.

The no vote is an indication of the sharp intensification of the class struggle. Last week, in an opening shot aimed at terrorizing workers into accepting further concessions in the 2019 contract negotiations at the Detroit Three auto companies, General Motors announced plans to shutter five plants in North America and another two overseas, laying off roughly 15,000 production and salaried workers.

The layoffs, if allowed to be carried out, would be a virtual death sentence for workers in cities already devastated by decades of deindustrialization. The plant shutdowns would also have a domino effect on workers in numerous parts, supplier and service industries in the areas targeted, with a low estimate of another 35,000 jobs at risk.

Workers have responded with shock and outrage to GMs plans, with over 100including a number of Lear workersattending a call-in meeting last Wednesday held by the WSWS Autoworker Newsletter in order to organize opposition to the companies attacks.

It is critical that workers at Lear break through the isolation imposed by the UAW and immediately reach out to the workers at GM, Ford and more broadly, both in the US and beyond, in order to prepare a joint counter-offensive for the right to good-paying jobs and decent living conditions. The WSWS will provide every assistance possible and urges workers who want to fight to contact us today.

The WSWS Autoworker Newsletter is holding an emergency meeting in Detroit on December 9 to discuss a strategy for autoworkers to unify their struggle against the companies and the corporate-controlled UAW. We strongly encourage workers at Lear to organize a delegation to attend and inform other autoworkers about their fight. Learn more and RSVP on Facebook here.

The author also recommends:

Reject the UAW-Lear sellout contract! Unite with GM and other autoworkers in a common fight!

[28 November 2018]

UAW intensifies campaign of intimidation against Indiana Lear workers

[26 November 2018]On Saturday, 100,000 people took part in a series of mass yellow vest demonstrations throughout France against President Emmanuel Macrons anti-worker fuel tax hike, in the most significant mass protests in the country since the May-June 1968 general strike.

These events are a critical turning point not just for France and Europe, but for the entire world. Suppressed for decades, the eruption of social protest proclaims the reentry of the working class onto the stage of world history. The class struggle is again asserting itself as the driving force of historical progress.

The explosive character of the events in France testifies to the enormous social contradictions that have accumulated over the nearly three decades since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, and, particularly, over the decade since the crash of 2008. The intense hatred of capitalism and the conditions it has created in France and throughout the worldthe staggering level of social inequality, the endless accumulation of wealth within a small percentage of the population, the ever-greater levels of poverty and sufferingis now bursting onto the surface of political life.

In Macron, the ruling elite has its true representativea justly despised and farcical figure, the investment banker turned president, who is nothing more than the puppet of the European stock exchanges. In the face of anger and outrage, Macron has made clear that he intends to go ahead with his anti-working-class policies, if need be through police-state means and the declaration of a state of emergency. The moment the masses challenge the economic demands of the ruling elite, it turns to violence and repression.

What is driving developments in France are not essentially national, but global conditions. What Macron can do, how he can respond, is determined by the demands of international capital. He is carrying out his attack on workers in France as the American bourgeoisie is implementing a new round of cost-cutting, epitomized in the mass layoffs announced at General Motors. Amid growing signs of a renewed economic slump, the ruling elite is going on the offensive in every country.

On the other side is the working class, which is showing itself to be not just an oppressed class, but a revolutionary class. Beneath the surface of bourgeois order and stability a civil war is brewing.

All the reactionary nostrums of the middle-class pseudo-left, that social inequality is not the central issue in contemporary society, and that the proletariat is not a revolutionary class, are being blown to pieces. Its obsessive fixation on issues of gender, race and sexuality is proving to be irrelevant to the struggle unfolding on the streets of Paris.

As for the claims of the end of history, advanced following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, these have proven mere fantasy. Only a year ago, amid the centenary of the Russian Revolution, the ideologists of capitalism were proclaiming that the October Revolution had no relevance to the modern world. Yet now, a revolutionary situation is beginning to emerge.

The distinctive feature of the past year has been the upsurge of class struggle. 2018 began with mass protests in Iran and strikes by industrial workers in Germany, lecturers in the UK and teachers in the United States. The year has seen significant expressions of social opposition in Latin America, the Middle East and Asia.

The year is coming to an end amid the mass protests in France, growing unrest among autoworkers in the US and mass strikes in South Korea, Greece and Chile. To this must be added the protests of migrant workers, including the refugees from Central America confronting the armed forces of the United States at the US-Mexico border.

The experiences of the past yearand France is no exceptionhave demonstrated the incapacity to implement any change in the interests of the broad mass of the population within the framework of the existing political institutions and the trade unions. The entire structure of the political system, right and left, is completely removed from and hostile to the concerns of the working class.

In France, once again, opposition has emerged completely outside of the framework of the trade unions, closely integrated into the state, whose initial response to the demonstrations was to denounce them. There is a bloc of reaction that extends from the Elysee Palace to the offices of middle-class parties like the New Anticapitalist Party (NPA). All are concerned with one thing: How can they bring this movement under control and stop it.

The central question that now emerges is that of perspective and strategy. There is an urgent need to deepen the struggle, bringing into it the broadest sections of the working class and youth. This requires the formation of committees of action, independent organizations of working-class struggle, which, as Trotsky wrote in 1935, one year before the 1936 French general strike, are the only means of breaking the antirevolutionary opposition of the party and trade union apparatuses. Such organizations will have as their task to unite the toiling masses of France in a defensive struggle and thus imbue these masses with the consciousness of their own power for the coming offensive.

The development of new organizations of working-class struggle is bound up with the most critical question of all, that of the development of a political movement based on the strategy of world socialist revolution.

The growth of the class struggle on an international scale is determined by the nature of the global capitalist system itself. Again, what is developing in France is not just a manifestation of French conditions, but of global conditions. It is, in its own way, telling that these demonstrations erupted just as Macron was returning from the G20, a global gathering of the leaders of the most powerful bourgeois states to hammer out their plans to exploit and oppress the worlds workers and prepare for global war.

The development of world capitalism, Trotsky wrote in 1907, has transformed the entire world into a single economic and political organism

[T]he entire economic and political functioning of capitalism, with its world trade, its system of monstrous state debts and international political alliances, which are drawing all the reactionary forces into a single worldwide joint-stock company, has not only resisted all partial political crises but has also prepared the conditions for a social crisis of unprecedented dimensions.

Workers all over the world identify with the demands of the French workers. All over the world, the ruling elite is restructuring social life in the interests of capital, to ensure not only the diversion of social wealth into their own pockets, but to provide the funding for the next series of wars.

A warning must be made: The response of the bourgeoisie to these events will be to enormously accelerate their preparations for war and repression, including the building up of neo-fascistic forces. The ruling elite has many weapons at its disposal. However, the workers have an even greater weapon: the billions-strong global working class, the greatest revolutionary force in human history.

The events now unfolding in France announce the opening of a new stage of revolutionary struggles. It is within this historical context that the central problem of the epoch is posed with immense acuteness: that is, the building of the Fourth International, the World Party of Socialist Revolution founded by Leon Trotsky in 1938 and led today by the International Committee. Within France, this fight is carried forward by the French section of the International Committee, the Parti de l'egalite socialiste.

Readers of the World Socialist Web Site know that it has anticipated with uncanny accuracy the eruption of international class struggle. We now call on all our readers and supporters to draw the necessary political conclusions from the unfolding events, and to commit themselves to the fight for the victory of the working class and the cause of world socialism.Veteran investigative journalist, documentary filmmaker and author, John Pilger, is currently hosting a special film festival in Australia. Entitled The Power of the Documentary: Breaking the Silence, the festival is on at Riverside Theatres in the western-Sydney suburb of Parramatta and at the Museum of Contemporary Art at Circular Quay in central Sydney. It will run until December 9.

Curated by Pilger, the festival is screening 26 films, including a number of his own documentaries, several significant works by Australian filmmakers and three foundational films from the US and Britain.

John Pilger

Pilger, who has made 62 documentaries since 1970, is one of a handful of journalists internationally who vigorously defends WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. On June 17, he addressed a rally in Sydney organised by the Socialist Equality Party (Australia) to demand Assanges immediate release.

Some of the early Pilger films to be screened include: The Quiet Mutiny, his first documentary for British television; The Outsiders, which features interviews with war correspondents, such as Wilfred Burchett and Martha Gellhorn, and other individuals in 1983; and The Last Dream: Other Peoples Wars (1988), about the history of Australian military involvement in British and American imperialist interventions.

Recent Pilger documentaries to be shown, some of which have been reviewed by the World Socialist Web Site, include Palestine is Still the Issue (2002), Breaking the Silence: Truth and Lies in the War on Terror (2003), The War You Dont See (2010), Utopia (2013) and The Coming War on China (2016).

Salute

Other important films to be shown are Curtis Levys The President vs David Hicks (2004) and Matt Normans Salute (2009), about track athlete Peter Norman and his victimisation by Australian authorities after he supported US athletes who gave a black power salute during the 1968 Olympics in Mexico.

Finally, The Power of Documentary festival includes three classic works: Edward R. Murrows Harvest of Shame (1960), an exposure of the slave-like working conditions of farm workers in the US; Peter Watkins long-banned War Game (1965), one of the first docudramas which recreates the horrific impact of a nuclear attack on Britain; and Peter Daviss Hearts and Minds (1974), the first mainstream American documentary opposing the US intervention in Vietnam to secure a theatrical release. Full details of the festival program can be accessed here.

Pilger conducted the following email interview with the WSWS last week, just before the festival began.

Richard Phillips: Can you explain why you decided to organise this festival? What do you mean by Breaking the Silence in the title and why is this necessary?

John Pilger: By silence I mean the exclusion of ideas that might change the way we see our world, or help us make sense of it. There are 26 films and each one pushes back a screen of propagandanot just the propaganda of governments but of a powerful groupthink of special interests designed to distract and intimidate us and which often takes its cue from social media and is the enemy of the arts and political freedom.

A documentary is not reality TV. Political documentary is not the consensual game played by politicians and journalists called current affairs. Great documentaries frighten the powerful, unnerve the compliant, expose the hypocritical. Great documentaries make us think, and think again, and speak out, and even take action

Well-paid journalists have become gormless cyphers of the propaganda of war: lies known these days as fake news and spread by the intelligence agencies. Why do we allow governments, our governments, to commit great crimes, and why do so many of us remain silent?

These are questions for those of us privileged to be allowed into peoples lives and be their voice and seek their support. It is a question for filmmakers, journalists, artists, arts administrators, editors, publishers. We can no longer claim to be innocent bystanders. Our responsibility is urgent; as Tom Paine impatiently wrote: The time is now.

RP: You began making documentaries in 1970 with The Quiet Mutiny, about the Vietnam War. Can you speak about the filmmakers that influenced you in the early years and the most important thing you learnt in that formative period?

JP: My formative period as a documentary filmmaker was as a journalist. For me, the two crafts complement each other; the most expressive journalism is often cinematic. As a young war reporter in South East Asia, I was struck by the surreal spectacle of the American invasion and its atrocious consequences. The Quiet Mutiny is a factual, political film that uses irony and satire bordering on black farce, together with the music of the time, much of it political.

I was influenced by many I worked with; in the beginning by my producer Charles Denton, who encouraged me to depart from the formula of current affairs. When The Quiet Mutinywas broadcast, the then Director General of the Independent Television Authority in Britain (a pompous fellow Australian with a knighthood) called me a dangerous subversive. It was the highest honour I have received, and I am grateful to him.

The Quiet Mutiny

RP: Since then youve made scores of documentaries. These include exposing US war crimes in Vietnam, Iraq and many other countries, the danger of nuclear war, state brutality against the working class and the poor, ongoing oppression and social mistreatment of Aborigines.

Your second documentary was shot in West Yorkshire and was entitled Conversations with a Working Man and broadcast on British television. Its difficult to imagine anything with a title like that being screened on the celebrity obsessed television networks today.

JP: I agree. But as with almost every film I have made, I had my struggles. The executive producer decreed that my use of the people was unacceptable because it was a Marxist term. He refused to allow me to use working class; if you listen carefully, you will hear me say working heritage. This nonsense made not a blind bit of difference; the viewers understood and a record audience watched the film.

RP: Why do you think there are so few of these sorts of exposures today? Is it because of financial and distribution problems, or a question of self-censorship and/or lack of political perspective?

JP: It is all those things. I would put lack of political perspective at the top, alongside an enthusiasm to join the system of elite power. Many on the BBC believe that once they join that institution they rise to a Nirvana of purest impartiality and objectivity when, in truth, they have become part of the most refined propaganda system on earth.

RP: The festival is showing Edward R. Murrows Harvest of Shame, Peter Watkins The War Game and Hearts and Minds by Peter Davis. Could you speak briefly about their importance?

JP: Each of these films is truth-telling in its highest form, especially The War Game. No film-maker has matched Peter Watkins astonishing achievement in recreating a town in England devastated by nuclear war. He did it all with official documents, which was why his film was banned by the BBC for 23 years.

Unknown to the British people, their governments were planning precisely that which Watkins reconstructed in The War Game. His film was profoundly threatening because it would possibly change the minds of millions of Britons towards Cold War policies, even war itself.

The War Game

Ive read the declassified documents of Harold Wilsons cabinet secretary, Sir Burke Trend; the government was horrified by Watkins film because it was true. I admire him enormously for the same reasons I admire Julian Assange.

Harvest of Shame was a very different film, yet its bracing journalism was also committed to the truth. The regression today means none of these films would be made.

RP: Youve also selected some films by Mark Davis, Curtis Levy and other Australian documentarians. Do you see any parallels between The President vs David Hicks, which follows the courageous fight waged by Davids father Terry to secure his sons freedom from Guantanamo Bay prison and the situation facing Julian Assange?

JP: Yes, they are similar; Terry Hicks is a supporter of Julian. For their moral courage, both Terry and Julian are the best kind of Australians.

Terry Hicks in Afghanistan

RP: Youve coined the phrase Vichy journalism to describe journalists who have joined the campaign of slander, lies and frame-ups against Assange and WikiLeaks. Why has this occurred and what are the consequences for Assange and investigative journalism? What is the current situation facing Assange?

JP: Most mainstream journalism has been integrated into corporate and so-called national security systems that rule the West, especially in the United States and Britain. When I was working in what was known as Fleet Street, the press was conservative but there were spaces for different, dissenting work, and a certain range of views. This was even encouraged. Today the spaces have closed, and the best journalists write online, or in foreign publications, or in a new samizdat, or not at all.

WikiLeaks and Julian Assange are the counter to this oppression, and, of course, he is subjected to a smear campaign. The greater his impact and symbolism the more vicious the campaign against him.

The Guardians sordid role as a platform for the scuttlebutt of spooks is shocking. Those involved are no different, morally, from those who collaborated under the Vichy government in France during the Second World War.

Julians situation is serious. The person contracted to bring his food to the Ecuadorean embassy has been told she is no long wanted. This does not mean he will go hungry, but it demonstrates the depth of his struggle. That said, he is a very strong character with an abiding moral purpose and a dark sense of humour. He needs, as Martha Gellhorn wrote about those who stand up to rapacious power, the alliance of us all ... the support of decency.

RP: Can you speak about your last documentary The Coming War on China and what prompted you to make it? What will be the consequences of such a war? Can you comment on Australias involvement in these preparations and the mounting anti-China hysteria in the Australian media?

JP: China is surrounded by more than 400 American military bases that reach from Australia, through the Pacific to Asia and across Eurasia. A State Department official described it as actually a noose. Low-draught US warships probe the waters of southern China and US drones overfly Chinese territory. This has been a fact, mostly unreported, for many years and was inverted during the Obama presidency to propaganda, the falsehood, that China was threatening the US, Asia, the Pacific.

As expected, Australian politicians, experts and journalists have echoed this. It has become a chorus. The Chineselike the Russiansare becoming the enemy of Australia, which in reality has no enemies, apart from its own forces of institutionalised paranoia. I grew up during the first Cold War and it is all familiar: perhaps worse in its inventions and deceptions.

RP: Finally, whats your advice to young people who want to become documentary filmmakers and investigative journalists today?

JP: My advice is always follow your star. By that I mean: never abandon your commitment and idealism and keep in mind that journalists and film-makers are truly credible as the agents of people, never of power.Among the most notable comments on the death of the one term Republican president who oversaw countless war crimes, were from two prominent progressive Democrats: Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren.

Sanders tweeted early Saturday morning: President George H.W. Bush served our country honorably. He and Barbara will be remembered for their humble and devoted service to the country they loved. Jane and I send our deepest condolences to the entire Bush family.

Warren commented in a very similar vein on Twitter: George H.W. Bush was an American patriot who lived his life and served our country with dignity. From joining the Navy during WWII to the presidency, his devotion to public service was unmatched. Bruce and I send our heartfelt condolences to his family.

Also of note is the fact that of the 25 incoming congressional Democrats identifying themselves as progressives, all but four tweeted praise and condolences of the late Bush. Many even went as far to retweet Obamas official statement.

The characterization of George H. W. Bush as an American patriot who served honorably and with dignity hardly needs to be refuted. Any truthful accounting of his presidency will confirm beyond the shadow of a doubt that he was a war criminal responsible for the deaths of thousands of innocent people both at home and abroad.

He is perhaps best known for orchestrating the first Gulf War which he sold to the American public on a pack of lies (a method employed for years in the form of weapons of mass destruction by his son to sell the war in Iraq). Throughout that conflict he oversaw the virtual destruction of Iraq, dropping a combined 88,500 tons of bombs on the country killing thousands of innocent people. Alongside this war abroad he also oversaw the vicious escalation of the war on drugs on home, which lead to the incarceration of thousands of workers and youth.

These crimes against humanity are not a distant memory for many workers. In fact, a review of the comments under Sanders tweet Saturday morning reveal the immense anger and hatred felt within the working class for Bush Sr.s presidency. Among hundreds of angry, and some very colorful comments one person wrote: He was a war criminal. He loved the rich and lining his own pockets. Don't falsely eulogize someone as repulsive as GHWB just because he's dead. If there's a Hell, he's there for many crimes against the American people and the world. Another, Honorable? I guess that tells me a lot about what you believe to be honorable.

What is the significance then, of the virtual universal praise of such a figure among the nominally left and progressive members of the Democratic Party? What about George H. W. Bushs record rings honorable and dignified in the eyes of these figures? What does it indicate about the nature of the conflict between the two parties?

The outpouring of solidarity to the Bush dynasty expressed by the Democratic Party leaders, and especially Warren and Sanders, expresses a fundamental truth of bourgeois politics: despite the ferocious infighting between the Republicans and the Democrats, both parties fundamentally agree on all the basic questions. They agree on a defense of inequality, strong borders, war, and the system upon which their wealth and position in society rests: capitalism. It is not a question of morality or personal friendships but one of a shared class interest.

This reality has been confirmed countless times in the past two years. Among the first actions of the Democratic Party in the aftermath of Trumps victory was to call for accommodation and cooperation to ensure a peaceful transition. Obama went as far to proclaim that the elections were only an intramural scrimmage in which all sides were on one team, while Sanders announced that he and other progressives are prepared to work with Trump on policies to improve the lives of working families.

The same script was played out after this years midterm elections. After making an extremely limited appeal to popular anti-Trump sentiment, only in order to divert it along safe channels for the capitalist system, the first order of business for the Democrats as the polls closed was to call for unity. Pelosis deputy in the House, Steny Hoyer, declared shortly after the results were that: His [Trumps] objectives are objectives that we share ... there is an opening for us to work together.

As for Sanders, the declaration of solidarity with George H. W. Bush is no sudden change of heart. Rather it is completely in line with his 2016 campaign in which he funneled the support he had won by appealing to popular hatred of the billionaires, behind the despised candidate of Wall Street, Hillary Clinton.

The exaltation of war criminals such as John McCain a few months ago and George H. W. Bush this week is part and parcel of the ferociously right-wing campaign of the Democratic Party, in which they are actively seeking to garner support among the population for future wars. The main focus of the Democratic Partys campaign against Trump has been, not his fascistic attacks on immigrants or on democratic rights in general, or his own warmongering, but on the claim that Trump is insufficiently committed to a confrontational policy against Russia.

The elevation of George H. W. Bush by the Democratic Party is a politically calculated move. Workers and youth who may have remaining illusions that the blue wave of Democrats hailed as the most diverse incoming freshman class in history should take note of such events and draw the necessary conclusions. The diversity of those elected in the midterm elections consists of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, age, and other identities. But when it comes to political views, they are remarkably unified as status quo Democrats who have no problem with honoring war criminals.

This author also recommends:

Ocasio-Cortez and Sanders praise McCain: An object lesson in the politics of the pseudo-left

[August 28, 2018]Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena continued to manoeuvre over the past week in a desperate attempt to secure a deal with leaders of the United National Party (UNP) and the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) ahead of scheduled Supreme Court hearings and an expected December 7 ruling on the countrys constitutional crisis.

UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe was ousted as prime minister in a political coup by Sirisena and replaced with former President Mahinda Rajapakse on October 26. When it became clear on November 9 that Rajapakse could not secure a parliamentary majority, Sirisena unconstitutionally dissolved parliament, 20 months ahead of its scheduled term, and declared that there would be new elections in January 2019.

The Supreme Court, following petitions from Wickremesinghes faction, intervened to temporarily halt the dissolution of parliament, pending hearings this week.

Sirisena has already refused to accept two parliamentary no-confidence motions in Rajapakse passed by the Wickremesinghes United National Front (UNF), with the support of the TNA and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP). This week, 14 TNA members of parliament signed a letter telling the president that they would only support a UNP-led government.

Last Friday night, Sirisena met separately with TNA and UNF leaders, calling on them to pass a resolution in parliament requesting him to appoint a new prime minister. Discussions with UNF leaders ended in a deadlock after Sirisena declared that he would not appoint Wickremesinghe as prime minister, despite his majority support. Another discussion planned for yesterday was postponed at the last moment and rescheduled for today.

In fact, a resolution calling on the president to appoint a prime minister with majority parliamentary support was tabled late last month and, according to media reports, will be moved on Wednesday by the JVP. The Wickremesinghe faction, which is currently backed by Washington, is intensifying its campaign and organising demonstrations for a peoples power movement.

Sirisenas attempts to make a deal followed an appeal last week by Wijedasa Rajapakse, a minister in the newly-appointed Rajapakse government. He called on the parliamentary speaker, Karu Jayasuriya, to meet with Sirisena and come up with an agreement between the warring factions to break the constitutional deadlock.

Wijedasa Rajapakses speech reflected concerns in the ruling elite that the bitter factional fighting will alienate working people. The people will ask us how we will be able to solve their problems, he said. If we listen to what youth are saying, he warned, the day they reject parliamentary rule is very close.

Any attempt by Sirisena to negotiate a deal with the UNP requires the removal of Rajapakse as prime minister. Rajapakse, however, has made clear that he will not resign from the position. MPs supporting Rajapakse are currently boycotting parliament.

Wickremesinghes faction now controls the Parliament Select Committee, which determines the main functions of the parliament, and last week passed resolutions stopping funds to the prime ministers office, cabinet ministers and their staff. The UNP has insisted that the use of state funds by Rajapakse and his ministers is illegal and have instructed state bureaucrats not to follow ministerial directives.

In response, the Rajapakse-led faction has declared that parliament has no power to curtail funds for the prime minister or cabinet ministers. Rajapakse reiterated his demand for the dissolution of parliament and a new election at a press conference, claiming that the people had sovereignty.

In what appears to be a blow against Rajapakse and Sirisena, Sri Lankas Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne was remanded by a Colombo court last Wednesday to face charges related to war crimes during the islands protracted communal war. Wijegunaratne is regarded as close to both Rajapakse and Sirisena, who may well have been counting on the military if the Supreme Court rules against them. The courts directive followed concerted efforts by Sirisena to prevent Wijegunaratnes arrest.

With the Sri Lankan rupee plummeting and growing foreign debt, the Colombo-based Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry is due to meet Sirisena today. According to the media, the business lobby group will use the meeting to express their concern and alarm over the crisis and urge an early, constitutional end to it.

The US, in line with its geo-strategic aims, and, in particular, its preparations for war against China, is backing Wickremesinghe. The Press Trust of India reported yesterday that an unnamed senior Trump official said discussions on Sri Lankas participation in Millennium aid investment assessment programs had been put on hold. The reason was, the US official explained, concern about the extra-constitutional steps that President Sirisena has taken.

Washington is not concerned about Sirisenas authoritarian moves, but rather that the ousting of Wickremesinghe could disrupt close US military and political relations with Colombo. In January 2015, Washington orchestrated a regime change operation to oust Rajapakse, who it regarded as being too close to China.

Rajapakse is attempting to assuage the concerns of the US and its allies. On Thursday, he told the Daily Mirror: We have no grudge against the Western worldWe are taking steps to change their attitude towards us. However, on the same day, his government signed a $50 million contract with a Chinese company to develop Colombo port.

The central factors precipitating the ongoing political and constitutional crisis are Washingtons determination to prevent Colombo orienting towards Beijing and the determination of all sections of the Sri Lankan ruling elite to crush working class opposition to the attacks on living and social conditions demanded by national and global big business.

Whatever the immediate outcome of Sirisenas manoeuvres and this weeks Supreme Court ruling, the political dangers confronting the Sri Lankan working class and the masses are immense. Sri Lankan workers cannot stand on the sidelines and allow the ruling elite to solve its crisis and unleash even more brutal assaults on social and democratic rights.

Workers should build independent action committees in workplaces, neighbourhoods and estates, mobilising the support of the rural poor and youth to fight for their democratic rights and class interests. What is required is a unified political struggle for a workers and peasants government as part of fight for international socialism.With the presidents of the United States and Russia staying home, it seemed Chinese President Xi Jinping would dominate this weekend at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit and increase his country's influence in the Pacific.

China has already lent at least $1.3 billion to the Pacific Islands and about $590 million alone to the summit's host, Papua New Guinea (PNG). And to coincide with the PNG visit, Beijing promised $4 billion of finance to build PNG's first national road network, one of several gestures for which China secured effusive praise from Pacific Island countries including Samoa, Vanuatu, the Cook Islands, Tonga, Niue, Fiji and the President of the Federated States of Micronesia.

Political Figures - Intl Xi Jinping Conferences and conventions Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Continents and regions Asia East Asia China Oceania Southeast Asia Australia Beijing Environment and natural resources Islands and reefs Landforms and ecosystems Manus Island Melanesia North America Papua New Guinea The Americas United States

But nevertheless, Xi left PNG dissatisfied and disgruntled.

For the first time in APEC's 25-year history, PNG was forced to end the summit with leaders failing to agree on a communique. And Beijing was also left embarrassed by reports of four Chinese officials being unceremoniously banished from the office of PNG Foreign Minister Rimbink Pato after allegedly trying to influence his statement.

The Director General of China's Department of International Economic Affairs, Wang Xiaolong, was reported as saying this was "simply not true."

For China, the trade summit should have been a public relations victory -- but it was turned into partial defeat when Chinese officials barred most reporters from participant countries and other international outlets from the forum and instead only allowed Chinese state-owned media journalists, citing space and security concerns according to Reuters.

Concerted and coordinated push back by the US and its allies

Of more enduring consequence than diplomatic embarrassment, is the concerted and coordinated push back by the US and its allies -- such as Japan and Australia -- which was done in a very public way. Earlier this month, Australia announced a $2.2 billion "step-up to the Pacific" -- which includes an Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility and an export credit agency to help Australian companies invest in the region.

Then on Saturday, the Trilateral Partnership countries of the US, Japan and Australia released a joint statement declaring together they would identify infrastructure projects for development and financing. Pointedly, these projects would adhere to "international standards and principles for development, including openness, transparency, and fiscal sustainability." That approach, it said, would "help to meet the region's genuine needs while avoiding unsustainable debt burdens for the nations of the region."

US Vice President Mike Pence was even more blunt during his speech at the APEC summit.

Taking a swipe at China, he said that the US "offers a better option" and "does not drown partners in a sea of debt...coerce" them or "compromise" their independence.

To indicate that the US and allied powers were serious about using economic and military means to counter Chinese influence, Pence announced over the weekend the US will join with Australia and PNG to redevelop and create a joint naval base on Manus Island. "We will work with these two nations to protect sovereignty and maritime rights in the Pacific Islands," he said.

Public distaste for 'sharp power' on show

Previously, in August, it was reported that China could be given the contract to redevelop a port on Manus Island. A military facility on Manus Island is of high strategic significance -- this is a deep-water port capable of hosting aircraft carriers and hundreds of naval vessels.

As one of the most important bases for the US fleet in the Pacific theater during World War II, it will be a second line of defence should China's People's Liberation Army Navy successfully break out of the so-called First Island Chain, a line of archipelagos that cover the Kuril Islands, Japan, Taiwan, northern Philippines and Borneo, and the Malay Peninsula.

But even if the reports about Chinese involvement in the Manus Island port are untrue, Beijing would be alarmed at the prospect of American and Australian military assets in PNG to counter any Chinese naval breakout.

As far as Beijing is concerned, the weekend was the time to showcase China's emergence as a benign superpower in the South Pacific. Instead, public distaste for and rebuke of its 'sharp power' was on show.

Xi defended China's trade practices and denied that its Belt and Road Initiative contained hidden geo-political and other sinister motivations. And no matter how adamantly he did so, it was not a conversation that Xi intended to have when he first landed in Port Moresby.

And it has not ended.

The more China offers economic largesse and inducements, the more it will need to reassure the recipient and the world that it is not laying a 'debt trap' or seeking to buy influence.

The weekend was supposed to be China's moment in the sun during this most important regional economic meeting. Instead, it became obvious to all that Beijing's ambitions are as feared and resisted by at least as many countries, as welcomed by others.Updated Monday, December 3 10:45 a.m.

Authorities in Yalobusha County released the identity of the suspect in an officer-involved shooting from Saturday afternoon. Michael Taylor of Grenada was pronounced dead at the scene by Coroner Ronnie Stark.

See the original post below.

WATER VALLEY, Miss. (WTVA) - One person is dead following an officer-involved shooting in Yalobusha County, Sheriff Lance Humphreys said.

Deputies responded to a call for a domestic incident on Patricia Drive in Water Valley around 3:30 p.m. on Saturday. Dispatchers say they could hear gunshots over the line when the call came through, the sheriff said.

When deputies arrived on the scene, they were notified that three children were inside the home. At that time, deputies were able to secure the children and began to try and talk to the suspect. The suspect then exited the home and began firing at deputies, the sheriff said.

Coroner Ronnie Stark pronounced the suspect dead and is expected to identify the person on Monday.

During the investigation, around 200 rounds of ammunition were recovered in the suspect's pockets.

The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and District Attorney John Champion are handling this investigation.We're in the very first week of December, the Christmas tunes are out in full force here in the Resero office as we get ready for the last batch of games of 2018. This week is a pretty big week in Europe and North America with games such as Override: Mech City Brawl and Hello Neighbor: Hide and Seek, but all around the world fans can look forward to playing Just Cause 4.

Rico Rodriguez is back with his iconic grapple hook in Just Cause 4 which player can fully customise to do all sorts of mad and insane things. Players will venture into Solis, a South American world home of conflict, oppression and extreme weather conditions, and you're there to hunt down the truth of Rico's past.

As for gamers in Europe and North America, the big ol' robot beat-em-up, Override: Mech City Brawl, is finally debuting onto consoles. Players will be able to hop into giant mechs all Pacific Rim style to fight one another in local or online multiplayer, or alternatively just venture through the single-player campaign beating up all sorts.

In Stores - Week Commencing 3rd December:

Asia (via play-asia.com)

Xbox One

Just Cause 4

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice

Australia (via ebgames.com.au)

Xbox One

Just Cause 4

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice

The Council Complete Edition

Europe (via amazon.co.uk)

Xbox One

Just Cause 4

Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice

The Council Complete Edition

Override: Mech City Brawl

Jagged Alliance Rage

Subnautica

Hello Neighbor: Hide & Seek

Unravel Yarny Bundle

North America (via gamestop.com)

Xbox OneTwo right-wing columnists see Marxists behind much of the illegal migration to Europe. They suggest the Marxist Left uses global warming to promote mass population movements.

In Magyar Demokrata, Istvan Gazdag speculates that global warming is being used by cultural Marxists as a tool to promote mass migration.

The author, known for his extremist views, even alleges that the existence of the white race endangered. He speculates that climate change will unleash another wave of global migration, as a result of which dark-skinned people will colonize the countries of white people.

Gazdag finds it absurd that global warming is attributed to developed countries in an attempt at morally oblige white people to take in climate refugees.

Magyar Idoks Zsolt Bayer accuses the EU leadership of turning Europe into a war zone through promoting illegal migration. In his interpretation, Europeans live under constant fear of terrorism, and Christians cannot even even Christmas fairs as a result.

Bayer accuses Communist internationalists in Brussels of using a neo-totalitarian PC-language when they claim that it is the humanitarian duty of Europe to legalise illegal migration.

This opinion does not necessarily represent the views of XpatLoop.com or the publisher. Your opinions are welcome too - for editorial review before possible publication online.

Click here to Share Your Story

MTI Photo: Mathe ZoltanPresident Trump was confident he would be able to work out a trade deal with Chinese President Xi as they dined in Argentina over the weekend. The two world leaders appear to have agreed to something geared toward ending the trade war between the U.S. and China. Its unclear what exactly that something is, though, as both sides have presented notably different versions of what was discussed Saturday night over grilled sirloin and Malbec. Its at least a safe bet that its not as groundbreaking as Trump wants Americans to believe Monday morning.

My meeting in Argentina with President Xi of China was an extraordinary one. Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward! Very good things will happen. We are dealing from great strength, but China likewise has much to gain if and when a deal is completed. Level the field!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 3, 2018

Farmers will be a a very BIG and FAST beneficiary of our deal with China. They intend to start purchasing agricultural product immediately. We make the finest and cleanest product in the World, and that is what China wants. Farmers, I LOVE YOU!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 3, 2018

President Xi and I have a very strong and personal relationship. He and I are the only two people that can bring about massive and very positive change, on trade and far beyond, between our two great Nations. A solution for North Korea is a great thing for China and ALL!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 3, 2018

Trumps use of the phrase BIG leap forward to characterize his progress on trade with China was unfortunate. The Great Leap Forward, as many were quick to point out, was a mid-century campaign by Chinas Communist Party that led to economic regression, the Great Chinese Famine and the tens of millions of deaths. Its hard to say whether Trump had simply never heard of the Great Leap Forward and the use of the phrase was a coincidence, or if he had some foggy recollection that leap forward was connected to something in Chinese history and figured it clever to use similar language to describe whatever resulted from his dinner with Xi.

Story continues

No one is quite sure what kind of agreement the two reached outside of to pause, for now, what has become a rapidly escalating trade war. Trump has already placed tariffs on $250 billion in goods imported from China, to which China has retaliated with tariffs on American imports. In September, Trump promised to raise the tariffs on $200 billion of those goods from 10 percent to 25 percent (the other $50 billion in goods are already taxed at 25 percent), and to slap new tariffs on an additional $267 billion in goods, if the two nations couldnt reach a new deal by January 1st. In Argentina, Trump agreed to hold off imposing these new tariffs for 90 days as the two nations continue to work toward a resolution. Its an incredible deal, Trump said on Air Force One after the dinner. It goes down, certainly, if it happens, it goes down as one of the largest deals ever made.

As part of the temporary truce, China has agreed to buy an unknown amount of American goods, including farming products, and to classify fentanyl as a controlled substance. Very importantly, President Xi, in a wonderful humanitarian gesture, has agreed to designate Fentanyl as a Controlled Substance, meaning that people selling Fentanyl to the United States will be subject to Chinas maximum penalty under the law, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in a statement.

The problem with all of this is that there doesnt seem to be any indication that an actual deal to end the trade war has any better chance of coming together in the next 90 days than it has over the past year of stalled talks. On Sunday night, Trump tweeted what on the surface seemed to be a concrete sign of progress. China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%, he wrote. This isnt really that significant, though. For one, American imports make up only about one percent of the Chinese auto market, according to the New York Times, totaling just over $10 billion. The current tariff of 40 percent is also part of the retaliatory tariffs China has imposed in response to Trumps tariffs on Chinese imports.

This isnt as big of a win as it seems. Chinas current tariff is 40% b/c of Trump. China had a 25% tariff on foreign cars, which it reduced to 15% this spring. But after Trump hit China with tariffs, Xi bumped US car tariff to 40% The real q = Is China going lower than 15%?? https://t.co/ONVkkp27dC  Heather Long (@byHeatherLong) December 3, 2018

Its also possible that China did not even agree to this. As Times reporter Glenn Thrush points out on Twitter, Peter Navarro, the director of the White House National Trade Council, refused to confirm China cut auto tariffs while speaking with NPR. He only acknowledged that the issue certainly came up as Trump and Xi dined in Argentina. China made no mention of cutting auto tariffs in describing the nature of the agreement between Xi and Trump, meaning its possible  if not likely  that Trump is lying.

Not only did China not mention any relief of their retaliatory auto tariffs, they didnt mention the 90-day window (only that additional tariffs wouldnt be imposed on January 1st); that they would buy a significant amount of farming products (only that they will import more goods from America); or that, as Trump claimed, President Xi will now reconsider approving a merger between Qualcomm and NXP Semiconductors, which he scuttled this summer as the trade war intensified. (The list of discrepancies in the terms of the agreement made in Argentina doesnt end there, as Bloomberg pointed out in a chart.)

Regardless of the specifics outlined by the United States and China, the agreement that came out of the dinner between Trump and Xi in Argentina amounts to little more than a delay. Most experts have cast doubt that China is going to suddenly cow to Trumps big-picture trade demands. We put off tariffs for 90 days in exchange for the same things weve been negotiating with the Chinese with for over a year, Derek Scissors, a China specialist at the American Enterprise Institute, told the Times. Why would this 90 days make any difference?

For those worried that the trade war may extend well beyond the first few months of 2019, fear not. Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin appeared on CNBC Monday morning to assure Americans that historys greatest dealmaker will be the one spearheading talks going forward. Its clear that President Trump is going to be the one who leads the negotiations, he said.George H.W. Bush on final journey to Washington before burial in Texas George H.W. Bush on final journey to Washington before burial in Texas (ABC News)

George H.W. Bush in Washington for final honors before burial in Texas originally appeared on abcnews.go.com

After "Hail to Chief" and a 21-gun salute rang out, the casket of President George H.W. Bush was carried up the steps of the U.S. Capitol as the setting sun cast a pastel sky over Washington in a final nod to one of America's great public servants.

The late president's son, former President George W. Bush, held his hand over his heart and held back tears as he watched pallbearers carry his father into the Capitol while the U.S. Army Band, Pershings Own, played the hymns, "Fairest Lord Jesus" and "A Mighty Fortress is Our God." The Bush family and members of Bush's cabinet solemnly followed the casket into the Capitol Rotunda led by Maj. Gen. Michael L. Howard.

Bush's casket was draped with the American flag and placed underneath the marble dome of the Rotunda. Surrounded by family, members of his administration, the current White House, Supreme Court justices and members of Congress, Vice President Mike Pence, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Speaker of the House Paul Ryan paid tribute to Bush.

"Thirty years ago, on the west front of this capitol, George Herbert Walker Bush addressed the nation for the first time as our president," McConnell said in his tribute on the rotunda floor. "He said, 'We meet on democracy's front porch. A good place to talk as neighbors and as friends.' The words of a humble servant who loved his fellow citizens and of a principled leader who knew America not only guards our own future but also safeguards democracy for the world. Today, this hero has returned to the capitol a final time."

(MORE: Colin Powell, James Baker remember former President George H.W. Bush)

During his tribute, Ryan said he campaigned for Bush in high school.

"He was the first president I had the chance to vote for. And he was the first president to teach me and many of us that in a democracy, sometimes you fall short. And that how you handle that, that is just as important as how you win," Ryan said.

Story continues

The remarks paid tribute to a man known for his kindness and humility.

"When President George H.W. Bush left office, he left America and the world more peaceful, prosperous and secure," Pence said. "He was a great leader who made a great difference in the life of this nation. But he also was a good man who was devoted to his wife, his family and his friends."

Pence shared a personal story of Bush writing to his son after he earned his Wings of Gold and made his first tailhook landing as a Marine aviator on the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush.

"I asked him to sign a picture of the flight deck that I could give to my son. We were told by the staff that the president had long since ended the practice of signing autographs and we understood that. But little to my surprise, just in time for my son's winging, there came not only a signed photograph but, of course, a letter. Hand-signed as well," Pence said. "In that letter President Bush wrote to my son, 'Congratulations on receiving your wings of gold. I know how proud you and your family are at this moment.' And then in words that assured us that the letter came directly from him, he wrote, 'Though we have not met, I share the pride your father has for you during this momentous occasion and I wish you many C.A.V.U. days ahead. All the best, G. Bush,'" Pence said.

C.A.V.U. stands for clear skies and visibility unlimited and was one of Bush's favorite terms from his time in the Navy.

"Ceiling and visibility unlimited. That may well describe the essence of this man," Pence said. "And it may well have been his vision. The vision he had for his life, for his children, his children's children and his country. No barriers, no boundaries, no limits."

The plane -- referred to as Air Force One when the president is on board -- was given the name "Special Air Mission 41" on Monday and Wednesday for when the late president and his family traveled between Joint Base Andrews and Houston.

When the plane landed at Andrews Monday under clear skies, it marked the start of a four-day tribute in the nation's capital to the 41st president. A hearse waited as the plane taxied to its place.

PHOTO: Family members watch as the flag-draped casket of former U.S. President George H.W. Bush is carried by a joint services military honor guard during an arrival ceremony, at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., Dec. 3, 2018. (Alex Brandon/Pool via Reuters)

Members of the CIA, for which Bush once served as director, and sailors from the carrier USS George H.W. Bush stood at attention.

More than a dozen members of the Bush family descended from the Boeing 747 and then watched as military members carried the casket through a cordon and placed it in the hearse. The late president's longtime friend, former chief of staff and Secretary of State James Baker accompanied the Bush family, as did Sully, the 2-year-old service dog that stayed by the president's side through the last few months of his life.

PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President George H.W. Bush is carried by a joint services military honor guard to Special Air Mission 41 at Ellington Field during a departure ceremony in Houston, Dec. 3, 2018. (Eric Gay/AP)

(MORE: 'Mission complete:' Bush 41's service dog will be by Bush family's side through services)

As during the departure ceremony at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base in Houston, the former president and World War II Navy pilot was honored with a 21-gun salute. After the ceremony, the hearse left for the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, where Navy captains and admirals will serve as pallbearers and bring the late president's casket up the Capitol steps.

PHOTO: In this Jan. 31, 1990, file photo, President George H.W. Bush receives applause prior to delivering his first State of the Union address on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP)

(MORE: Former President George H.W. Bush dead at 94)

The official ceremonies honoring the late president began Monday morning as his family watched members of the U.S. Secret Service carry his casket from a funeral chapel in Houston to a waiting hearse. The motorcade then headed to Ellington Field about 45 minutes away.

Bush, who was famous for having socks for every occasion, will be buried in a pair that pays tribute to his time in the Navy, according to family spokesperson Jim McGrath. The former president flew 58 combat missions in the Pacific as a torpedo bomber pilot and was shot down by the Japanese in 1944.

The 41st President will be carried to his final rest wearing socks that pay tribute to his lifetime of service, starting as an 18 year-old naval aviator in war. That legacy is now being carried, in part, by the brave, selfless men and women aboard @CVN77_GHWB. #Remembering41 pic.twitter.com/OabtK756fO  Jim McGrath (@jgm41) December 3, 2018

Over the last few months, the Bush family shared photos of him wearing socks with former President Bill Clinton's face on them, as well as a pair featuring a yellow lab that looked like his service dog, Sully.

PHOTO: The flag-draped casket of former President George H.W. Bush is carried by a joint services military honor guard in Houston, Dec. 3, 2018. (David J. Phillip/AP)

As the departure ceremony was taking place, President Donald Trump tweeted that he would see the Bush family soon.

"Looking forward to being with the Bush Family to pay my respects to President George H.W. Bush," he wrote.

The president doesn't yet have any public events scheduled with the family ahead of Wednesday's state funeral. Vice President Mike Pence is scheduled to make remarks at the U.S. Capitol, where the president's casket will be taken after an arrival ceremony at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland.

The Clintons and the Obamas are expected to attend the funeral service, as well as former President Jimmy Carter. At age 94, the same age at which Bush died, Carter is now the oldest living president.

(MORE: 'Dear Bill': Clinton reads heartfelt letter from President George H.W. Bush)

The official schedule for ceremonies honoring the late George H.W. Bush was released on Saturday. The four-day tribute includes lying in state at the U.S. Capitol for parts of three days, a funeral at the Washington National Cathedral and eventual burial at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum back in Texas.

Bush's casket will lie in state through Wednesday morning. An honor guard will be in attendance and the public will be allowed into the Capitol from 7:30 p.m. Monday until 8:45 a.m. Wednesday.

Sen. John McCain, a war hero like Bush, is the last person to lie in state at the Capitol following his death in August. Bush called McCain "a patriot of the highest order" following his death.

There will be a departure ceremony for Bush at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday at 10 a.m. and his casket will arrive at the Washington National Cathedral five miles away at 11 a.m.

The funeral at the Washington National Cathedral, set to be attended by a wide array of former presidents and politicians, including Trump, will last 90 minutes.

(MORE: World leaders remember George H.W. Bush)

Following the funeral, Bush's casket will return to Joint Base Andrews at 1:15 p.m. for the flight back to Houston. His arrival at Ellington Field is expected at 4:30 p.m. Central time on Wednesday.

Bush will then lie in repose at St. Martin's Episcopal Church in Houston, where first lady Barbara Bush's funeral was held in April.

PHOTO: In this March 8, 2017, file photo, the Mensch International Foundation presented its annual Mensch Award to former President George H.W. Bush and former first lady Barbara Bush at an awards ceremony hosted by Congregation Beth Israel in Houston. (AP)

The president's casket will depart by railroad on Thursday at 12:30 p.m. Central time and arrive at Texas A&M University in College Station, home to the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum, at 3:45 p.m. Bush, an admirer of trains, has had a special one with a glass viewing car designed to carry his remains to internment.

Bush will be interred next to his wife and daughter Robin at 4:15 p.m.Its 7 p.m. on lower Ludlow Street in Manhattan, and disparate art world cliques begin gathering at the emerging gallery Entrance as if it were that evenings downtown equivalent of a high school assembly.

The uptown collectors arrived, deposited curbside by chauffeured cars; Brooklyn-based artists rode their bikes there across the Williamsburg Bridge; skaters with intellectualized T-shirt imprints rolled right up to the door, and the at-leisure independently wealthy had their Ubers leave them far up the block, so as to maintain their aura of dishevelment. There was also an adequate smattering of actors and fashion-types  with models towering well above skaters moppet hairstyles.

But inside the space, opened by a brother duo  New York City art kids Louis and Jack Shannon, ages 27 and 26, respectively  the diverse crowd intermingled with ease, taking people-watching to be part of the fun, if not an opportunity for learned experience. Such is the Shannons objective: To create an egalitarian clubhouse atmosphere established by artists, for artists.

The night marked the opening of Rest Area, a show of experimental neon sculptures by the artist Mariko Makino her first-ever solo show, and the first program to be staged in Entrances recently expanded space, which now extends across two floors. Artist Dylan Kraus show of oil paintings, called The Shining, hung in the gallerys original space downstairs.

Entrance was established as an underground enterprise, both literally and metaphorically. The Shannons have occupied the basement space at 48 Ludlow Street  accessible by sidewalk storm doors  since 2009, when it was originally used as a landing space for the DIY art collective Luck You, which they cofounded alongside a handful of other artists.

Last summer, with Luck You disbanded, they turned the studio space into a gallery with the mission to serve emerging art in New York City, including the immediate community around us, Louis Shannon said.

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They remodeled the space to house a gallery in the front, and kept raw space at the back  now used as a residency studio by artists during their Entrance show runs. The studio also serves as an experimental print lab, with which Entrance is now developing an editions program to promote accessibility in the art world. We want to be making things and help artists produce work. We dont want to just be showing work in dry, clean terms, Shannon said of the gallerys intent.

Last month, the Shannons took over the buildings storefront space  formerly storage for an electrical supplier. Although Entrance is now coming out from the underground, so to speak, they aim to maintain its familial vibe  a component essential to the gallerys success. Despite a depressed market for emerging art, the bootstrap operation counts its sincere and carefully considered, approach as a selling point for collectors. Entrance is currently a self-funded operation, with sales from its successful shows directly funding its continued ambitions.

The gallery regularly hosts dinner parties that play to its community mantra, with multi-course meals and plates devised as small artworks. We will invite 10 to 20 artists to come eat with us, as well as collectors and curators  pretty much all pieces of the puzzle come down to break bread together. Thats a dream of the space  finding common ground. Doing that over food works really well, Shannon said.

Makino  who majored in food studies at New York University  helped host one such dinner last year, which saw her co-develop a seven-course Kaiseki menu.

The artist tends to get obsessed with a material and a craft and pushes it to its limits, Shannon said, explaining her recent meditations on neon.

Makino began studying Ikebana, a discipline of Japanese floral arrangement, in 2016  and held a show of wonky, off-kilter arrangements in collaboration with her boyfriend Ary Warnaar, member of the electronic chiptune group Anamanaguchi, who crafted music to complement each floral design. The following year she began studying glassblowing so she could craft her own vases. The interest in neon soon followed, with Makino enrolling in a neon glassblowing and craftwork course last summer.

Her intuitive, poetic lights  shown on the floor  are created entirely by hand, with Makino wiring the lamps herself. They illuminate the gallery in soft shades of pink and blue, their neon gas piped through delicately misshapen tubes. I wanted to create something beautiful to look at that also serves a function, like lighting your home. Its called Rest Area because I wanted people to come hang on the carpet and take a moment to just sit down, she said of the show.

Makino placed a floral arrangement beside each light, set in vases that she constructed of glass and concrete. I love complementing the lights with something that is alive, she said.

I feel like what I love about Ikebana is very off-center and simple, the artist continued. I try to do that with neon and highlight it as if it were a flower. One thing about Ikebana is that there are so many rules and its the same with neon  there are right ways to bend a letter. I tried to push against the traditions.

As for Shannon, he is in it for the long run. We grew up in New York around artists that have been working here for 60 years, he said. We work with lifers and are in it for the long haul. We believe in symbiosis of artist and gallery and look forward to growing, too. We are here to stay.

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The Met Breuer Plans First Major Survey of Lucio Fontana's Work in New York in More Than 40 YearsTwo words. According to Kenzie, a junior at Cibola High School (CHS) in Albuquerque, New Mexico, that was all it took to break the trust between a Navajo student and her teacher. Bloody Indian, her teacher allegedly said.

On Halloween, Kenzie headed to AP English, to find a darkened classroom illuminated by candlelight. She says the teacher told the students to put their bags to the side and take their seats. She added that teacher who is white, explained that she was dressed up as Marie Laveau, a voodoo practitioner from New Orleans, famously portrayed by Angela Bassett on American Horror Story: Coven. I was like, Why did she choose that? She could have been Marilyn Monroe or something. It was weird but I decided I could go with it because it was Halloween, Kenzie said.

According to Kenzie, the teacher showed a YouTube clip about Marie Laveau, and then began asking students comprehension questions about the film, staying in character the whole time. If they answered correctly, the teacher said she would give them marshmallows. Kenzie said, if they answered incorrectly, the teacher said she would give them a piece of dog food. Several students refused to eat the food.

According to Kenzie, the teacher called on another Native American female student who was wearing her hair in two braids. When the student was unable to answer her question, the teacher, still apparently in character, then asked her if she liked her braids. According to Kenzie, the teacher went to her desk to get scissors and then cut the end of the students braid up until the rubber band.

My heart stopped, my eyes were huge and  you could hear the whole class gasp, Kenzie said. I didnt even know if it was real. Shes not even supposed to touch a student, and she cut off [my friends] hair...and sprinkled it on the desk.

According to Kenzie, the teacher then turned her attention back to the class, calling on other students, asking about their costumes, and eventually approaching Kenzie. So she came to me, she put another flashlight on me and she's like, What are you supposed to be? explained Kenzie, who was dressed up as Little Red Riding Hood for Halloween with a bloody claw mark on her cheek drawn with theatrical makeup.

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According to Kenzie, the teacher then allegedly said, Oh, you must be bloody Indian. She then asked the class if that statement was offensive, Kenzie says.

After using the racial slur, the teacher dismissed class early. Everyone was relieved, Kenzie said.

The two young women eventually spoke with the advisor for the schools Native American Club, who helped them report the incidents to the school administration. The teacher has been on paid leave since Halloween while Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) investigates.

Teen Vogue spoke to two students who were present at the time of the incident and corroborated Kenzie's version of events.

It Only Took Two Words To Break It All

Kenzie said that the incident made her lose faith in a teacher she trusted, who had previously encouraged her to apply for scholarships for Native American students and to take AP classes. All of that just made what she did in class so much more surprising. It only took...two words to break it all, she said.

On November 26th, Albuquerque Public Schools sent Teen Vogue a copy of a letter sent to families on November 2nd, two days after the incident, which stated that the teacher had been placed on leave after allegations of inappropriate behavior.

It is alleged that the teacher made a culturally insensitive remark to one student and snipped the hair of another student. It is alleged that these incidents occurred while the teacher was acting out what has been referred to as a Halloween stunt, the statement continued. Whatever the reason, the words and action are unacceptable. The incidents are being investigated, and we will continue to work with the students and their families to assure they feel safe, respected, and comfortable at school.

According to Monica Armenta, executive director of APS Communications, the incident remains under investigation. The teacher did not reply to a request for comment from Teen Vogue.

Since Halloween, both young women have say they have experienced harassment for speaking out from peers at school and on social media. Kenzie received a message from one classmate saying that youre ruining her life, referring to the teacher.

Kianna, another Navajo student attending Cibola High School, says she overheard two teachers saying that the students shouldnt have reported the Halloween incident. It's...like we all have to fend for ourselves. We can't really go to our teachers anymore, said Kianna, who added that other CHS teachers have shown support.

Kianna said shes had other experiences of negative cultural interactions with CHS teachers, but the Halloween event encouraged her to file her first complaint.

We Wanted To Let Them Know The Community Is Behind Them

Members of the Native American community arranged a rally on November 7 to show solidarity with the two students. Kianna attended the rally, but they didnt encourage other students to attend in case they were also targeted for speaking out. After the rally, she had a classmate refuse to move from her seat. According to Kianna, he said, What are you going to do, protest?

A lot of people had a different idea of what [the rally] was about. They thought it was going to be like a protest against the school..., but really the meaning behind it was...to let the students know that they have this whole community behind them, Kianna said.

The incident has reverberated across the Native American community. We stand with you, Navajo Nation President President Russell Begaye said of the two young women in a statement.

On November 28, the American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico sent a letter to Albuquerque Public Schools in support of the two young women, alleging that the teacher demeaned Native American students in unthinkable ways. That same night, 30 students and parents confronted the APS Board about the incident, many calling for the teachers firing.

Schools Are Not Meeting the Needs of Native Youth

Eric Stegman (Carry the Kettle First Nation), executive director of the Center for Native American Youth at the Aspen Institute, said that other culturally-insensitive events happen everyday to Native youth. In 2017, a Texas kindergartner who was part Native was reportedly kicked out of class for having long hair. Earlier this year, parents called college campus security on two Mohawk youth who were on a tour at Colorado State University.

This incident [at Cibola High School] demonstrates a continued lack of understanding of the school system about the roots of historical trauma, Stegman said in an interview with Teen Vogue. For Native people, school systems that are not controlled by them have always had their roots in intentional policies by the US government to dismantle their culture.

He explained that the hair cutting echoes the boarding school system that attempted to erase Native culture throughout the 20th century. Native students hair was cut short and they were prohibited from speaking their languages to force them to assimilate to the dominant white culture. Haircuts were especially traumatic as many tribes cut their hair as a mourning ritual.

It hits so close to home when the significance of hair is so intimately tied to Native American culture and identity, Jasmine Yepa (Jemez Pueblo), an attorney and policy analyst with the New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty, told Teen Vogue.

The continued marginalization of Native youth in the K-12 system has marked consequences for their educational outcomes. Research has shown that the existence of racist and derogatory mascots and team names at schools can establish an unwelcome and hostile learning environment for Native youth, impacting their self-esteem and mental health. Indigenous students are more likely to be subject to school discipline such as suspension and more likely to come into contact with the juvenile justice system, and less likely to graduate from high school or attend college than their white peers.

Kenzie wants to use this incident as an opportunity to speak out on behalf of other Native American students. I probably would have quit school if I wasnt as strong as I am, Kenzie said. I [dont] want that to happen to any other Indigenous student... I want them to feel like they're included in a school where they can succeed.

Additional reporting contributed by Monica Braine of Native America Calling.

Related: 6 Texas Tech Students Were Kicked Out of Their Fraternities After Offensive Texts SurfaceTough times for Individual 1! In case you missed it, that is how the President of the United States is referred to in his old friend Michael Cohens plea deal with the Mueller Russia probe, in court documents released on Thursday. Not to raise false hopes, but after the head-spinning developments of the past week, CNN legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin averred on Thursday night, You know, todays the first day I actually thought Donald Trump might not finish his term in office . . . I mean, I think this thing is enormous.

This thingor things, include the following: Cohen, Trumps former fixer/attorney, who the president now refers to as a very weak individual, admitted to the Mueller investigators that he had lied about the Moscow Projectthe Trump Organizations fierce determination to realize their dream of a Russian Trump Tower. Andthis one is fun!according to The Washington Post, Cohens Russian business associate, Felix Sater, told BuzzFeed News that he and Cohen plotted to give Russian President Vladimir Putin a supposed $50 million penthouse in Trump Tower Moscow to help lure oligarchs into the project.

Cohen is not the only former associate wrestling with plea deals. The arrangement that the presidents former campaign manager, Paul Manafort, made with the Mueller team has just gone down the toilet, since Manafort has been caught in a web of lies, violating the original agreement. (All along, Manaforts attorneys have allegedly been feeding Trump the inner workings of the Mueller probe, which, believe it or not, may not be illegal.) But wait, theres more! On Tuesday, The Guardian newspaper reported that Donald Trumps former campaign manager Paul Manafort held secret talks with Julian Assange inside the Ecuadorian embassy in London, and visited around the time he joined Trumps campaign . . . . Sources have said Manafort went to see Assange in 2013, 2015, and in spring 2016during the period when he was made a key figure in Trumps push for the White House. Now what do you think Paul and Julian talked aboutthe fact that Assange was being visited in the embassy by his girlfriend at the time, Pam Anderson? (This is true!) Or the WikiLeaks documents that Assange could provide to damage Hillary Clintons campaign? Or maybe both?

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After insisting for the last two years that he has had absolutely no dealings with Russia, the president suddenly tweeted at 2:00 a.m. on Friday: Oh, I get it! I am a very good developer, happily living my life, when I see our Country going in the wrong direction (to put it mildly). Against all odds, I decide to run for President & continue to run my business-very legal & very cool, talked about it on the campaign trail... Lightly looked at doing a building somewhere in Russia. Put up zero money, zero guarantees and didnt do the project. Witch Hunt!

In other news that is dubiously legal and not at all cool: Last Sunday, U.S. Border Patrol agents teargassed asylum seekers at the border, including barefoot toddlers. On Monday, Melania silently cruised through an alley of bloodred Christmas trees, as imperious as Mrs. Waterford overseeing a row of arboreal handmaids. Dont you hate it when your friends make friends and go off together and leave you in the cold? On Friday, at the G20 Conference in Argentina, Russian President Vladimir Putin, repeatedly accused of murdering journalists, high-fived it with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who Trumps own CIA has said was responsible for the assassination of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi in October.

Yesterday, the president cancelled a planned press conference out of deference, he claimed, to the Bush family, since George H.W. Bush, 41st president and architect of the first Iraq war that killed over 100,000 people, had passed away Friday night. Well, maybe. But there are plenty of other reasons Individual 1 might not feel like taking questions right now.By Edward McAllister and Alessandra Prentice DAKAR (Reuters) - Assane Diallo is making final preparations for a journey he knows could cost him his life: one thousand miles across open ocean from Senegal to the Canary Islands in a 50-foot wooden boat held together with rusty nails. The 35-year-old fisherman hopes to push off this week from a beach in the capital Dakar with water, dried food and potentially dozens of passengers. He just needs two motors and enough petrol for the week-long journey and also to patch up a three-foot (1 meter) gash in the hull. Diallo is part of a resurgence in African migrants taking the treacherous Atlantic route to the Spanish territory this year in search of jobs and prosperity that they cannot find at home. Many migrants see the chain of islands off the Moroccan coast as the only viable option left as the European Union spends millions of dollars cutting off land routes through north Africa. They consider it a launchpad for asylum in mainland Europe. "Some, if they see a canoe, do not even consider staying here. They will leave at all costs," said Diallo, looking over the litter-strewn beach where listless teenagers mill about at dusk, some fixing fishing nets or painting boats in bright reds and blues. Over 1,200 migrants arrived in the Canary Islands between Jan. 1 and Nov. 14, Spanish Interior Ministry data show, the highest in nine years and a four-fold increase over the same period in 2017. It marks the revival of a worrying trend. In 2006 - when 30,000 migrants managed to reach the Canary Islands - some 7,000 people died trying to make the crossing, rights groups say. In the decade that followed, Spanish patrols slowed the pace. Land routes through Niger and Libya to Italy became more popular. But the Italian government has focused on stopping the Libya route. With migrants detained in slave-like conditions in Libya, the numbers arriving in Italy have dropped off dramatically from a peak of 181,000 in 2016. Still, migrants' will to leave remains. The fall in arrivals to Italy has corresponded with a surge in attempts to reach Spain, where a record number of migrants has reached the mainland in recent months. "Managing... migratory flows is very much like squeezing a balloon. When one route closes, the flows increase on another," said Izabella Cooper, spokeswoman for EU border agency Frontex. "The only solution to migration is to eliminate the root causes: wars and poverty." "VERY, VERY BIG" SEA Migrants face many dangers on the open ocean, including mountainous waves, blistering heat and starvation. While the numbers remain small compared to arrivals on the Spanish mainland, authorities in Senegal and Gambia said there has been a rise in boats attempting the crossing to the Canary Islands this year. The lack of data on departures makes it impossible to calculate how many die. In October, Guinea Bissau's coastguard discovered the empty wreckage of a boat that had been carrying dozens of migrants. That same month, a boat with 72 Gambians and Senegalese heading for the Canary Islands was rescued off Guinea Bissau after an engine failure. One of the migrants, Alieu Gaye, said he went by boat because he heard that land routes had become too dangerous. "People are afraid to take the road. They prefer to take canoes to travel by the Atlantic Ocean," he said. Policing a coastline hundreds of miles long is a tough task, coast guards say. Spain's Guardia Civil has worked with the Senegalese Coast Guard since 2006 to intercept migrants. They have two 100-foot boats, one of which goes out every day, but crew members say they rarely find anything. "The sea is very, very big. And they can leave from wherever in Senegal, Gambia or further south," said Rafael Carballo Abeger, an attache at the Spanish embassy in Dakar. Assane Diallo is confident he can evade the coast guard when he leaves before dawn in the coming days. It is worth the risk, he says. Fish stocks are depleting and he can no longer provide for his wife and two children. "It's hard to come back and bring nothing home," he said. "It hurts the heart, that's why I want to leave." (Additional reporting by Pap Saine in Banjul and Diadie Ba in Dakar; Editing by Gareth Jones)KABUL, Afghanistan (AP)  At least ten civilians were killed following an airstrike in the eastern Paktia province bordering Pakistan, Afghan officials said Sunday.

Shausta Jan Ahady, a former provincial council member, said that women and children were among those killed in the strike carried out a day earlier. He said local residents displayed the bodies and protested on Sunday. Provincial government spokesman Abdullah Hsrat said the airstrike killed four insurgents and that an investigation has been launched into the allegations of civilian casualties.

"We are aware of the reports of civilian casualties, but can't confirm it right now, as an investigation is ongoing," said Hsrat.

Ahady said the area is under Taliban's control and so exact information is difficult to obtain.

In a separate incident in the southern Helmand province, an airstrike killed the Taliban's shadow governor and two of his guards, according to the provincial government spokesman, Omar Zwak.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban's spokesman, in a statement said that Mullah Abdul Manan Akhand, a powerful military commander in the southern region, was among those killed in Saturday's airstrike.

"Abdul Manan Akhand, was a powerful and brave military commander who cleared 95 percent of Helmand from invader Americans and their slaves," the Taliban statement said.

Manan was a military commander and the Taliban's shadow governor responsible not only for Helmand, but also Kandahar, Zabul and Nimroz provinces, according to local officials in Helmand.

The Taliban control of nearly half the country and run a parallel administration with provincial governors and military commanders across numerous provinces in the country.

It was not immediately clear who carried out either airstrike.Bab al-Hawa (Syria) (AFP) - A 54-year-old Argentinian woman who was lured into war-wracked Syria two years ago on a marriage promise was finally on her way home on Saturday, a Syrian rebel official said.

History teacher Nancy Roxana Papa had accepted the invitation of a Syrian man she had met online three years earlier and travelled to Turkey in 2016, before entering Syria.

"She returned to Turkey on Saturday after the required legal documents... were completed" for her entry into Turkish territory, said Bassam Sahiouni, an official from the local rebel authority in Idlib province.

On October 30, the "Salvation Government" -- set up in rebel-held Idlib by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) jihadist group -- handed Papa over to the Humanitarian Relief Foundation, a Turkish non-governmental organisation, at the Bab al-Hawa border post.

She then had to remain in Syria for over a month to await completion of administrative and legal procedures for her repatriation.

The Argentinian teacher had appeared on October 30 at a news conference organised by HTS at the border, where she thanked her country's diplomatic services, the Turkish authorities and the "Salvation Government".

"You saved my life," she said that day, drying her tears after Sahiouni explained the circumstances of her misadventure.

Sahiouni had given an account of the teacher's apparent ordeal at the news conference.

She met the man posing as her future husband in a hotel in Turkey and "he told her they would go to Syria to greet his parents," the rebel official said.

She entered Syria illegally in 2016 and was immediately kidnapped by a gang that was waiting for her on the other side of the border and contacted her daughter to demand a ransom, Sahiouni said.

He added that she managed to escape from her captors after a year and survived in the war-torn area by staying with residents and moving from home to home.

The "Salvation Government" sought to address the case earlier this year and tried without success to contact Argentina's foreign ministry, before the Humanitarian Relief Foundation eventually dealt with her situation, Sahiouni said.

Last year, HTS reunited a Belgian girl with her mother, after the death of the four-year-old's father, a radicalised criminal who had entered Syria with the child in May 2017.

In February 2018, the same authorities handed over to Turkish officials two Canadian nationals who were held for several weeks after entering Syria for obscure family reasons.Bukavu (DR Congo) (AFP) - Fifteen people have been killed in eastern DR Congo in clashes between troops and rebels loyal to a former general, the army said Monday.

It said the fighting was continuing Monday in Fizi, a region of South Kivu, a mineral-rich province which is prone to ethnic tensions.

The unrest is another front in the push by rebels to oust President Joseph Kabila as the poverty-stricken Democratic Republic of Congo limps towards a much-delayed presidential election slated for December 23.

"The rebels have already lost 12 fighters, including the commander Alida," the deputy head of the rebels, an army spokesman in the region, Captain Dieudonne Kaserek, told AFP.

"Three soldiers drowned in a river with their weapons," he added.

The clashes pit the army against rebels loyal to a former army general, William Amuri Yakutumba, opposed to Kabila.

The militia is allied to rebels of the National Liberation Front based in neighbouring Burundi, according to several regional sources.

In September of last year the Yakutumba rebels attacked the town of Uvira on Lake Tanganyika opposite the Burundian capital Bujumbura. UN forces pushed them back with Congolese support.

In February the military said they had wiped out the Yakutumba with help from Burundi, where some of them had taken refuge.

The Fizi region was the cradle of the rebellion by Laurent-Desire Kabila, father of the current president, who ousted Mobutu Sese Seko in May 1997.

The former Belgian colony has not seen a peaceful transition of power since 1960.Jakarta (AFP) - An Australian was among hundreds of pro-Papuan independence activists arrested across Indonesia at the weekend, police and rights groups said Monday.

Some 233 activists, including Australian Ronda Amy Harman, were detained late Saturday in Indonesia's second-largest city Surabaya, East Java police spokesman Frans Barung Mangera told AFP.

The arrests were made at a student dormitory, said lawyer Veronica Koman, who represented some of the detainees.

They were among more than 500 activists swept up in a nationwide police crackdown that coincided with rallies on December 1, a date many Papuans consider should be the anniversary of their independence from the Dutch.

Papua declared itself an independent nation on that date in 1961, but neighbouring Indonesia took control of the region by force in 1963. It officially annexed Papua in 1969 with a UN-backed vote, widely seen as a sham.

No one was formally charged in the Surabaya arrests including Harman, but the 35-year-old woman was reported to immigration officials, Mangera said.

The mass arrests followed a rally in which counter protestors threw stones at around 300 Papuans, injuring 16 people, Amnesty International said.

Jakarta keeps a tight grip on resource-rich Papua, which has been the scene of a low-level independence insurgency since the late Sixties.

Some of the violence has been centred on protests against a huge gold and copper mine operated by US-based firm Freeport McMoRan -- a frequent flashpoint in the local struggle for independence and a bigger share of the region's rich resources.

A spokesperson for Australias department of foreign affairs and trade said it was aware of reports that Harman had been detained in Indonesia and said it was ready to offer consular assistance.

Lawyer Koman -- who was with the activists in Surabaya -- said the Australian was at the dormitory with her boyfriend, one of the Papuan students.

She is now being kept at a hotel and it was likely she would be deported, Koman added.

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Rights groups have blasted authorities for the mass detentions, saying it was an assault on Papuans right to freedom of expression and assembly.

"These people did nothing but peacefully attend public events," Amnesty International Indonesia's executive director Usman Hamid said in a statement.

"These arbitrary arrests add to the long list of acts of harassment, intimidation and arrests faced by Papuans."

In August, authorities arrested Pole Jakub Skrzypski in Papua for alleged links to separatists and he could face life in prison if convicted. His trial date has not yet been set.Bank of America chose Ireland as the location for its post-Brexit EU headquarters. Pic: Reuters

Bank of America (BAC) has successfully completed the move of its European headquarters from London to Dublin in a bid to prepare for the outcome of Brexit.

Irish regulators gave the bank the necessary approval for the relocation, which involved the merging of its UK banking entity into its Dublin-based arm, the bank confirmed on Monday.

The banking giant said in 2017 that the Irish capital would serve as its primary European Union base, even as it planned to expand its presence in other countries in the bloc.

In a statement, the chair of the new Dublin division, Anne Finucane, said that the bank was pleased that this critical component of its Brexit preparations was completed exactly on schedule.

READ MORE: Ahead of Brexit, Barclays seeks court approval to move 224bn assets to Ireland

Many financial institutions are concerned that, after Brexit, their UK divisions will lose passporting rights, the mechanism that allows them to do business in other EU countries.

In October, the High Court said that Barclays could tentatively shift thousands of its clients from its UK bank to a Dublin-based entity. Lloyds of London has also said that it will move its EU headquarters from London to Dublin.

Bank of America, which this year marked 50 years of operation in Ireland, now employs 800 people in Ireland, following the transfer of around 100 staff from London.

Bruce Thompson, who previously served as CFO of the global Bank of America group, leads the banks European global banking and markets operations, and is now based in Dublin.



Johannesburg (AFP) - Beyonce led an all-star line-up including Ed Sheeran, Jay-Z and Usher in Johannesburg at a concert to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela on Sunday.

The concert was the climax of a year of events celebrating the centennial of Mandela's birth in 1918, and part of a campaign to tackle poverty, child malnutrition and boost gender equality.

This year's Global Citizen Festival was held at Johannesburg's 94,736-capacity FNB staium and saw Beyonce perform several of her hits as well as a duet with Sheeran.

Thousands of music fans, many of whom had received free tickets to reward their activism and campaigning work, flocked to the stadium hours before the concert began.

"I'm proud to be part of the global citizen movement because they are trying to make a positive impact on people's lives -- especially women's and children's issues," said Nokthula Khuzwayo, 23, from Soweto.

"I loved Dbanj's performance and of course Queen B and Jay-Z, even though it was a brief one."

As well as a constellation of global stars that also included Pharrell Williams and Coldplay's Chris Martin, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted fellow heads of state from Ghana, Rwanda and Sierra Leone.

"We are here to act in one voice," said Ramaphosa.

Beyonce's performance of her smash hit XO, during which she wore a flowing pink-red dress and paid tribute to Mandela, drew an outpouring of emotion from the crowd.

- 'Take action' -

South African stars Trevor Noah, who was the host, and Bonang Matheba also made appearances, as the largely local crowd braved heavy downpours to attend.

Ahead of the concert co-host Oprah Winfrey hailed Mandela's "goodness and integrity", describing him as her "favourite mentor".

Mandela was imprisoned for decades under South Africa's apartheid regime. After being released in 1990, he led the country's transformation into a multi-racial democracy and was elected its first president. He died on December 5, 2013, aged 95.

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Earlier on Sunday, Mandela's widow Graca Machel, draped in a bright yellow and blue dress, took to the stage to honour her late husband in front of the near-capacity crowd.

And Mandela's grandson Ndaba Mandela told festival-goers: "Today it is a privilege and choice for us to take action on behalf of the hundreds of millions of people trapped in the cycle of poverty.

"So I plead with you, don't think of this as just a music festival, this is a call to the hearts and minds of humanity all across the world."

The Global Citizen initiative aims to help eradicate extreme poverty by 2030 and has staged events in other world cities including London, Brussels, and New York.

According to the initiative's founder Hugh Evans, more than $2 billion have been pledged to good causes following the Johannesburg gig, beating the $1 billion goal.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted ahead of the event pledging $50 million to women's and girl's education projects.

Event organisers earlier paid tribute to a rigger who died following a fall while helping to prepare the stage on Saturday.

"The circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated," Global Citizen said in a statement.By Lamine Chikhi ALGIERS (Reuters) - Algerian President Abdelaziz Bouteflika was unable to receive the Saudi crown prince during his visit as planned due to acute flu, the Algerian presidency said on Monday. The Saudi heir, Mohammed bin Salman, had arrived late on Sunday for a two-day visit to Algeria. He wished Bouteflika a speedy recovery, the presidency said in statement carried by the official APS news agency. The cancellation of the meeting is likely to fuel speculation over whether Bouteflika will run for a fifth next in presidential elections next year. Bouteflika, in office since 1999, has rarely appeared in public since suffering a stroke in 2013 which has bound him to a wheelchair. His last meeting with a senior foreign official was during a visit by German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sept. 17. An earlier meeting with Merkel and a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte were canceled earlier this year. The ruling party and trade unions have urged Bouteflika to run again, but intellectuals and the opposition have said his health makes him unfit for another term. The Saudi heir met Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia, who had also received him at the airport. Prince Mohammed was visiting Algeria as part of a tour of Arab countries he has resumed after attending the G20 summit in Argentina on the weekend. The crown prince is on his first trip abroad since the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, which has strained Saudi Arabia's ties with the West and battered the prince's image abroad. Saudi Arabia has said the prince had no prior knowledge of the murder. After offering numerous contradictory explanations, Riyadh said last month that Khashoggi had been killed and his body dismembered when negotiations to persuade him to return to Saudi Arabia failed. So far during Prince Mohammed's tour of Arab states there has been little or no sign of discontent with his leadership of Saudi Arabia, with the exception of Tunisia, one of the few Arab democracies, where there were demonstrations against him. In Algeria, opposition newspaper Liberte published rare criticism, running a cartoon showing a ghost telling the prince: "This is Bouteflika". The anxious heir responded: "You frightened me. I had thought this was Khashoggi." (Reporting by Lamine Chikhi; Writing by Ulf Laessing; Editing by Alison Williams and Peter Graff)Paris (AFP) - As protesters spread out from the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, daylong clashes between police and "yellow vest" demonstrators left dozens of cars burned out and store-fronts vandalised.

"It's burning!" yelled a fleeing woman as two fires gained strength along the Boulevard des Capucines in central Paris.

Police sirens blared along chic avenues decked out with Christmas decorations, where stores usually packed with holiday shoppers remained shut, their windows boarded up as if awaiting a hurricane.

"She's panicking!" a mother said of her daughter, imploring a waiter to give them shelter at the opulent Cafe de la Paix, just next to the Opera Garnier.

A few blocks away, paving stones and bricks littered the streets near the Madeleine church, while nearby an "A" in a circle, the sign of anarchy, was spray-painted on a bank.

"We don't know if it's safe or not, It's scary," said Giselle Rosano, a Brazilian based in Berlin, after being turned back from the Boulevard Haussmann by an officer in riot gear.

Across the capital thick smoke billowed from makeshift barricades set ablaze, and near the famed Champs-Elysees avenue the carcass of a construction digger smouldered.

It was the third straight Saturday of "yellow vest" protests against fuel taxes which has provided a focus for anti-President Emmanuel Macron sentiment.

Although fewer protesters turned out, those who did appeared determined to take on the thousands of police deployed to contain the damage.

"I support the yellow vests, but seeing all this violence, this mess, makes me want to cry," Fanny, a 47-year-old nurse, told AFP.

"It's like the Revolution," she said.

- 'Kill the bourgeois' -

Many of the protesters had hoped Macron would hear their complaints about the rising cost of living and their struggle to make ends meet on low salaries or pensions.

But instead, news channels showed young men wearing scarves or even gas masks, some marching with a banner reading "The people are desperate, Kill the bourgeois."

Story continues

Along the opulent Avenue Foch near the Arc de Triomphe, home to embassies and luxury residences, protesters ripped out benches to form a blockade, one person waving a skull and bones pirate flag.

"The situation is crazy. Our teams tell me it's an insurrection," said Antoine Berth, a spokesman for the far-right group Action Francaise.

"I see that the revolutionary tradition is still quite embedded in France," said Augustin Terlinden, a 33-year-old Belgian out jogging near the Arc de Triomphe.

Elsewere, a protester wearing one of the high-visibility yellow vests had his head covered in blood. "I met up with a cop," he explained.

While many demonstrators as well as politicians deplored the violence, others said Macron was paying the price for refusing to budge on fuel taxes, which are set to rise again in January.

Chantal, a 45-year-old who came from Lorraine in eastern France to attend the protest with her husband and two children, said "Macron's silence" had been met with "legitimate violence."

"Every month I finish with a 500-euro ($565) overdraft. We haven't taken a holiday in three years," said Chantal, a civil servant who said she earned 1,700 euros a month.

Romain, a 39-year-old worker at the Opera Garnier, called the vandalism "a necessary evil" and "a way to express yourself."

"But burning people's cars, that's not cool," he said.Eat This, Not That!

You pour it out, wear it on your sleeve and love people from the bottom of it. But do you take carewe mean, proper careof your heart?For decades, heart disease has been the No. 1 killer of Americans.The good news: You can make quick, easy changes to your lifestyle to cut your risk, and add years to your life, and it's never too late. Here are the top 50 things you're probably doing that put you in dangerfrom the Eat This, Not That! Health to you, with all our heart. Read onand to ensure yourThis is the moment a Yorkshire man tripped a hapless thief stealing from charity as he walked to buy a sausage roll.

Joshua Starkey, Salthouse Lane, Hull, walked into Subway in Hull Paragon Interchange on March 25 this year and grabbed a British Heart Foundation charity collection box, snapping a chain it was secured with and making off.

But as Starkey, 23, was running from the scene Jerome Denton was on to Greggs before work when he spotted the thief running with collection box in hand  so he stuck out his foot flooring Starkey and salvaging the collection box.

Mr Denton told the Hull Daily Mail: I was working at Gravity at the time and I arrived in town 20 minutes before my shift.

I thought to kill some time I would go and get a sausage roll or a Subway salad so I was walking through the station and I just saw him running at me.

Josh Starkey, 23, who has been jailed for 16-weeks for stealing a British Heart Foundation collection box from Subway in Hull Paragon Interchange. It was recovered after Jerome Denton tripped Starkey and returned it to a staff member. (British Transport Police).

He added: I tripped him over and he went flying and then when he tried to grab the charity box again, I stomped at him like a pigeon and gave him a good chastising. I said: You dont steal from charity.

I picked up the box and gave it back to the Subway lady who ran after him. I then felt super awkward going into Subway so I went to Greggs and bought a sausage roll but I could barely grab my change because I had an adrenaline rush.

As I left people were clapping and shaking my hand. It felt like Chariots of Fire should have been playing.

On November 19 Starkey was jailed for 16-weeks after appearing at Hull Magistrates Court where he admitted criminal damage and theft from a shop.

PC Paul Hobman, from BTP, said: A huge congratulations are in order for the courageous member of the public who quite literally stepped in to prevent Starkey from stealing money which was intended for a good cause.

Starkeys actions in attempting to steal a charity collection box were disgraceful and I am pleased the judge imposed a prison sentence. I hope that his days of offending are behind him.

Starkey was also ordered to pay 85 costs.VATICAN CITY, Dec 2 (Reuters) - Men with deep-rooted homosexual tendencies should not be admitted to the Catholic clergy, and it would be better for priests who are actively gay to leave rather than lead a double life, Pope Francis says in a new book.

While he has previously spoken of the need for better screening of candidates for the religious life, his comments suggesting that priests who cannot keep their vows of celibacy should leave are some of his clearest to date.

Francis made the comments in a book-length interview with Spanish priest Fernando Prado called "The Strength of Vocation," in which he discusses the challenges of being a priest or nun today.

%InlineRelated-url="https://www.aol.com/article/news/2018/12/01/pope-francis-worried-about-homosexuality-in-priesthood/23605987/" CTA="SEE ALSO" title="Pope Francis says he's worried about homosexuality in the priesthood"%

Francis said in the book that homosexuality in the Church "is something that worries me." It is due to be published this week in several languages. An advance copy of the Italian version was made available to Reuters.

"The question of homosexuality is a very serious one," he said, adding that those entrusted with training men to be priests must be certain that candidates are "humanly and emotionally mature" before they can be ordained.

This also applied to women who wanted to enter female religious communities to become nuns. In the Catholic Church, priests, nuns and monks all take vows of celibacy.

The Church teaches that homosexual tendencies are not sinful in themselves, but homosexual acts are.

Related: The pope meets President Trump:

Francis said there was "no room for this" in the lives of priests and nuns, adding that the Church had to be "demanding" in choosing candidates for what is known as the consecrated life.

"For this reason, the Church urges that persons with this rooted tendency not be accepted into (priestly) ministry or consecrated life," he said.

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"BETTER TO LEAVE"

He urged homosexuals who are already priests or nuns to be celibate and responsible to avoid creating scandal. "It is better that they leave the priesthood or the consecrated life rather than live a double life," he said.

The interview was conducted in mid-August. Less than two weeks later, on Aug. 26, Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, the Vatican's former ambassador to the Vatican, threw the Church into turmoil with a bombshell statement against the pope and Vatican officials.

Vigano said a "homosexual network" existed in the Vatican, whose members helped promote each other's careers in the Church.

He also accused the pope of having ignored alleged sexual misconduct with adult male seminarians by former American cardinal Theodore McCarrick, 88.

The Vatican said Vigano's accusations were riddled with "calumny and defamation."

The Catholic Church has been haunted for more than two decades by evidence of thousands of cases of sexual abuse of minors by clergy around the world, in countries ranging from the United States to Australia, Ireland, Belgium, Germany and Chile.

In July, McCarrick became the first cardinal to resign in nearly 100 years after U.S. Church officials said allegations made in a separate investigation that he had sexually abused a 16-year-old boy almost 50 years ago were credible and substantiated.

McCarrick has said he had no recollection of the alleged abuse of the minor, but has not commented on the allegations of misconduct with the seminarians, which allegedly took place decades ago. (Reporting By Philip Pullella; Editing by Kevin Liffey)By Philip Pullella VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Men with deep-rooted homosexual tendencies should not be admitted to the Catholic clergy, and it would be better for priests who are actively gay to leave rather than lead a double life, Pope Francis says in a new book. While he has previously spoken of the need for better screening of candidates for the religious life, his comments suggesting that priests who cannot keep their vows of celibacy should leave are some of his clearest to date. Francis made the comments in a book-length interview with Spanish priest Fernando Prado called "The Strength of Vocation", in which he discusses the challenges of being a priest or nun today. Francis said in the book that homosexuality in the Church "is something that worries me". It is due to be published this week in several languages. An advance copy of the Italian version was made available to Reuters. "The question of homosexuality is a very serious one," he said, adding that those entrusted with training men to be priests must be certain that candidates are "humanly and emotionally mature" before they can be ordained. This also applied to women who wanted to enter female religious communities to become nuns. In the Catholic Church, priests, nuns and monks all take vows of celibacy. The Church teaches that homosexual tendencies are not sinful in themselves, but homosexual acts are. Francis said there was "no room for this" in the lives of priests and nuns, adding that the Church had to be "demanding" in choosing candidates for what is known as the consecrated life. "For this reason, the Church urges that persons with this rooted tendency not be accepted into (priestly) ministry or consecrated life," he said. "BETTER TO LEAVE" He urged homosexuals who are already priests or nuns to be celibate and responsible to avoid creating scandal. "It is better that they leave the priesthood or the consecrated life rather than live a double life," he said. The interview was conducted in mid-August. Less than two weeks later, on Aug. 26, Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, the Vatican's former ambassador to the Vatican, threw the Church into turmoil with a bombshell statement against the pope and Vatican officials. Vigano said a "homosexual network" existed in the Vatican, whose members helped promote each other's careers in the Church. He also accused the pope of having ignored alleged sexual misconduct with adult male seminarians by former American cardinal Theodore McCarrick, 88. The Vatican said Vigano's accusations were riddled with "calumny and defamation". The Catholic Church has been haunted for more than two decades by evidence of thousands of cases of sexual abuse of minors by clergy around the world, in countries ranging from the United States to Australia, Ireland, Belgium, Germany and Chile. In July, McCarrick became the first cardinal to resign in nearly 100 years after U.S. Church officials said allegations made in a separate investigation that he had sexually abused a 16-year-old boy almost 50 years ago were credible and substantiated. McCarrick has said he had no recollection of the alleged abuse of the minor, but has not commented on the allegations of misconduct with the seminarians, which allegedly took place decades ago. (Reporting By Philip Pullella; Editing by Kevin Liffey)Washington (AFP) - China has agreed to scale back tariffs on imported US cars, President Donald Trump said Sunday, one day after agreeing with Xi Jinping to a ceasefire in the trade war between the world's top two economies.

Asia stocks had rallied on the news that Washington and Beijing would not impose any new tariffs during a three-month grace period, during which the two sides are meant to finalize a more detailed agreement.

"China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40 percent," Trump said on Twitter.

On Saturday, Trump and Xi agreed to put a stop to their tit-for-tat tariffs row, which had roiled world markets for months.

The Republican president called their agreement -- which Washington hopes will help close a yawning trade gap with the Asian giant and help protect US intellectual property -- an "incredible" deal.

Trump agreed to hold off on his threat to slap 25 percent tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from January 1, leaving them at the current 10 percent rate.

In return, China is to purchase "very substantial" amount of agricultural, energy, industrial and other product from the US

The US president did not send any subsequent tweets Sunday explaining which auto tariffs would be removed, and which would be reduced.

In July, China reduced auto import duties from 25 percent to 15 percent, a boon for international carmakers keen to grow sales in the world's largest auto market.

But as trade tensions ratcheted up with the US this summer, Beijing retaliated by slapping vehicles imported from the US with an extra 25 percent tariff, bringing the total tariff rate to 40 percent.

Many US automakers build their cars in China, but for some the tariff hikes have hit sales.

US company Tesla saw its sales drop with the higher prices this fall and recently said it would absorb some of the higher tariff costs and no longer pass them on to consumers.

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German carmaker BMW and Fords Lincoln brand have also been hit hard by the tariffs with some of their cars made in the US for the Chinese market.

The news comes as Trump mulls a tariff hike on vehicles imported from the European Union.

Top executives from German carmakers Volkswagen, Daimler and BMW are to meet Tuesday with senior US officials at the White House to discuss the situation, the German news agency DPA reported, citing unnamed sources.China will roll back tariffs on US-made cars, US President Donald Trump said, unveiling another potential breakthrough in a trade war truce that cheered stock markets on Monday.

Trump's surprise announcement late Sunday came a day after he and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to suspend any new tariffs and give negotiators 90 days to strike a deal.

The ceasefire follows months of tensions and tit-for-tat custom duties on hundreds of billions of dollars worth of goods that raised fears of an escalation harmful to the global economy.

Both sides gained from hitting the pause button, with Trump securing a Chinese pledge to import more US goods and Xi staving off the further pressure that higher tariffs would place on his country's slowing economy.

Trump tweeted that China had agreed to "reduce and remove" tariffs of 40 percent on cars, though Beijing has yet to confirm the move.

China's foreign ministry declined to confirm Trump's assertion on Monday, instead saying: "On December 1 President Xi and President Trump reached an important consensus on trade issues."

"They agreed to hold off on the imposition of new tariffs and came up with a series of constructive arrangements on how to address the existing differences and problems," spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters.

Trump's tweet did not explain which tariffs would be reduced or removed, or when China would act.

William Zarit, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, said the car announcement, if confirmed, was "certainly movement in the right direction, and hopefully a sign of more things to come".

Beijing had reduced auto import duties from 25 percent to 15 percent in July. But it later added a 25 percent tariff on US-made cars as trade tensions soared, bringing them to 40 percent.

Many US automakers build their cars in China for the local market, but the tariff hikes have hit sales and profits for some companies including electric car-maker Tesla and US-made models from BMW and Ford.

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- IP theft -

One expert said China would have to address US complaints about China's forced transfer of intellectual property rights -- a major issue at the core of a US "301" trade investigation -- for Washington to drop its tariffs.

"Any action which increases market access or better ensures a level playing field will certainly be welcomed and could lead to continued discussions," Steven Okun, a Singapore-based senior advisor at strategic advisory firm McLarty Associates, told AFP.

"Still, one must presume that as the existing and proposed tariffs are to spur China to address the US' IPR concerns, only action directly related to that would ultimately impact the 301 tariffs," he said.

The White House said Saturday the two sides would "immediately" begin talks on "structural changes" affecting forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection and cyber theft.

China reaffirmed that the agreement held "great significance".

"It prevents the economic and trade frictions from expanding and opens new prospects for cooperation," Geng said.

- 'No magic wand' -

Asian and European stock markets jumped on Monday, with Hong Kong and Shanghai closing sharply higher and the yuan strengthening after months of trade-war turbulence.

After being spooked by the conflict, investors returned to buying following the long-awaited meeting between the two presidents.

But observers warned there were still major issues that needed to be resolved, including access for US companies and intellectual property protection.

"In order to really make a difference, China needs to enact more sweeping comprehensive reforms in the short term," Zarit said.

China's state-run media cautiously welcomed the Buenos Aires agreement.

The nationalist Global Times tabloid called it a "momentous step forward" that brings "huge potential for fair trade".

"It is hoped that the trade teams from both countries will reach as many practical agreements as possible and as quickly as possible to hasten China-US cooperation," the daily said.

Under the agreement, Trump is shelving a plan to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10 percent to 25 percent from the start of next year -- but the hike will kick in if negotiators fail to reach a final deal within 90 days.

The United States has imposed 25 percent tariffs on another $50 billion worth of Chinese imports and they remain in effect despite the truce.

China has hit back with similar tariffs on $110 billion worth of goods made in the US.

"No magic wand has been waved to make the differences between the United States and China vanish overnight," the state-run China Daily warned.

"Given the complexity of interactions between the two economies, the rest of the world will still be holding its collective breath while it waits to see if the series of constructive plans that are in the works can put bilateral relations back on a cooperative rather than confrontational track," it said.By Jason Hovet PRAGUE (Reuters) - Russia's intelligence services were behind cyber attacks targeting the Czech foreign ministry last year, the Czech security service said on Monday in its annual report. The BIS counter-intelligence service has long warned against Russian activity in the Czech Republic, a member of NATO since 1999 and of the European Union since 2004. Many other Western countries have issued similar warnings. In its report, BIS said two separate attacks on the Czech foreign ministry were partly the work of the APT28 hacking group, which is linked to the Russian government and has been blamed for past attacks in Germany and the United States. "All the findings make clear that it was the Turla cyberespionage campaign, originating from the FSB, a Russian intelligence service, and APT28/Sofacy, which is credited to the Russian military intelligence, the GRU," the annual report said. In a hack of the ministry's information system, it said, attackers accessed more than 150 staff mailboxes, copying emails and attachments. "They thus obtained data that may be used for future attacks, as well as a list of potential targets in virtually all the important state institutions," it said. The Czech foreign ministry said at the time it believed a foreign state was behind the cyber attacks on it but said no confidential material was compromised. As in previous years, the report warned of Russia's continued use of undeclared intelligence officers acting under diplomatic cover as part of a general hybrid strategy against member states of the European Union and NATO. The Russian government was not immediately available on Monday to comment on the BIS accusations. BIS also reported increased activity by Chinese intelligence officers and a growing worry of espionage in the economic, scientific and technical domains. Czech President Milos Zeman has vigorously promoted political and business ties with both China and Russia. BIS said it had also detected several attacks against Czech military targets, with the most serious compromising several private email accounts of people linked to the Defence Ministry and army and also compromising an IP address by malware know as X-Agent. (Reporting by Jason Hovet; Editing by Gareth Jones)Ottawa (AFP) - A committee of wildlife experts warned Monday that Canada's largest land predator, the polar bear, was at risk of disappearing from its vast Arctic landscape as melting Arctic sea ice makes hunting prey a challenge.

"It is clear we will need to keep a close eye on this species," Graham Forbes, co-chair of the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) said in a statement. "Significant change is coming to its entire range."

He explained that the bears use sea ice and the "same sit-and-wait techniques familiar to ice fishers" to hunt seals for food.

Predictions of longer ice-free Arctic summers will make hunting "much more difficult" for polar bears, he said.

Inuit, however, are cautiously optimistic the bears will adapt.

In its latest assessment, COSEWIC incorporated both science and Inuit knowledge. It concluded that "while not currently threatened with extinction, the species faces an uncertain future."

Its status was listed as a Special Concern, meaning it may become threatened or endangered.

Canada is home to two-thirds of the world's polar bear population.

At last count in 2011, there were 15,500 polar bears in Canada.

The same year, Ottawa listed the animal under its Species at Risk Act, requiring a conservation strategy be put in place to alleviate human threats to the iconic bears.

COSEWIC also expressed concerns about declining Chinook salmon stocks along the Pacific coast, and Black Ash after two billion of the trees in the Great Lakes region were killed by Emerald Ash Borer beetles.An Egyptian actress facing trial on public obscenity charges for wearing a revealing dress says she didnt mean to offend anyone, appealing to her detractors to believe in her good intentions.

In a weekend Facebook post, Rania Youssef said she may have misjudged how people would react to the dress she wore at the closing ceremony of this years Cairo International Film Festival, which revealed the entirety of her legs through embroidered gauze.

In choosing that dress, she said, she had referred to fashion designers that may have been influenced by the tastes and standards at international film festivals.

I want to repeat my commitment to the values and ethics we have been raised by in Egyptian society, said Youssef, whose statement fell short of an apology.

Images of Youssef at the event were widely shared on social media, prompting a group of lawyers to file a complaint to the chief prosecutor, who quickly sent the actress to trial. Many complaints languish for months or longer before any action is taken, so the swift action betrays the urgency of the desire to appease those that took offense. Youssef is due in court on Jan. 12.

The case is the latest instance of ostensibly secular authorities embracing religious conservatism in Muslim-majority Egypt, where the military in 2013  then led by current President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi  overthrew a freely elected but divisive Islamist president.

Elected to office in 2014, el-Sissi has since overseen a crackdown that saw thousands of Islamists and many secular, pro-democracy activists imprisoned, and reversed gains won by a popular 2011 uprising that toppled the 29-year rule of autocrat Hosni Mubarak.

But while el-Sissis government embraces an almost obsessive opposition to political Islam, it has shown a large degree of tolerance toward ultraconservative Muslims. The Salafis, as they are known, have for decades worked quietly toward the gradual, non-violent transformation of Egypt into a society that observes the purist rules of Islams early 7th century days.

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El-Sissi is known to be an observing Muslim who consistently invokes the name of God in his speeches, but has regularly called on the countrys top clerics to revise Islams discourse in a bid to remove literature inspiring hatred or violence. As president, he said in a TV interview before his election in June 2014, I will be responsible for (the nations) values, ethics, principles and religion.

Egypts Actors Guild, meanwhile, said in a statement that it intended to investigate and discipline actors who wore inappropriate attire during the opening and closing ceremonies of the weeklong film festival, arguing that they clashed with the traditions, values and ethics of society.

Although we absolutely believe in the personal freedom of artists, we appeal to everyone to shoulder their responsibilities toward the fans who appreciate their art and view them as role models, said the weekend statement. That should compel them to exercise a minimum level of commitment to societys public values.

Youssefs dress and news of her impending trial have dominated the conversation on social media networks over the weekend, made the front-page Sunday of several newspapers and became the topic of several op-eds.

While some on social media invoked religion to denounce the actress immodesty, others criticized the judicial system for what they saw as bowing to conservatives, noting the lack of progress in redressing what they considered some of societys more pressing chronic ills, such as homelessness, corruption and the sexual harassment of women.

A nation is jolted by a revealing dress at a festival but is not infuriated by a million children sleeping rough and scavenging in trash bins for food, opinion writer Khaled Montaser tweeted.

Emad Hussein, editor of the independent and respected daily Al-Shorouk, said Youssef had every right, in theory, to wear whatever dress she chose, but that her grave mistake was that it looked more like a swimsuit.

There is a law that prohibits offending the public but, more importantly, there are societal values that need to be respected, he wrote Sunday.Seville (Spain) (AFP) - A far-right party won seats in a Spanish regional parliament for the first time since the country returned to democracy following the death of longtime dictator Francisco Franco in 1975, results in Andalusia's election showed.

With more than 99 percent of the votes counted late Sunday, the small Vox party took 12 seats, handing a majority to right-wing parties in the southern Spanish region governed by the Socialists for more than three decades.

The result means that Vox, which opposes illegal immigration and Catalan independence, has exceeded even the most optimistic poll predictions which had forecast a possible five seat win.

"The Andalusians have made history... and got rid of 36 years of socialist rule," said Vox leader Santiago Abascal.

The Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) scored the worst result in its history winning 33 seats.

Its potential ally on the left Adelante Andalusia (Forward Andalusia) picked up only 17 seats, depriving the left of a majority, while the conservative Popular Party (PP) won 26 seats and the Ciudadanos liberals took 21 seats.

French far-right leader Marine Le Pen sent "warm congratulations" in a tweet to her "Vox friends".

The poll had been seen as the first of a series of tests for Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

It was Sanchez's first electoral test since taking office in June after winning a surprise vote of no-confidence in parliament against the previous PP government of Mariano Rajoy over a corruption scandal.

His Socialists had ruled Andalusia since 1982.

The vote, however, is a mere foretaste of the coming 'super election year': 2019 will see municipal, regional and European elections and perhaps even an early general election to coincide with the other May polls.

All eyes will now be on Vox which can try to use Andalusia as a springboard in next year's elections.

If it did win a seat in the next general election, it would be the first time a far-right party had had a presence in Spain's lower house of parliament since 1982.

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In all, 6.5 million were eligible to vote in the ballot in Andalusia, the country's most populous region and among its poorest.

The PSOE's Susana Diaz -- who last year unsuccessfully challenged Sanchez for the party leadership -- had been seeking to retain the regional presidency while also giving Sanchez and the national party a fillip.

But Vox sought to throw a spoke in their wheels by adding its voice to traditional conservative forces led by the PP and market-friendly Ciudadanos, which has in recent years challenged the PP for the mantle of Spain's dominant liberal force.

"These elections are key as a first step in the removal of Pedro Sanchez" and the PSOE from the government, PP leader Pablo Casado told Radio COPE on Friday.

- 'Unsustainable' -

Casado said a defeat in its traditional southern fiefdom would render the PSOE's attempt to retain power nationally "unsustainable." The Socialists are already walking a tightrope given they hold just 84 seats in the 350-seat national assembly.

Both the PP and Ciudadanos had said during the campaign that if rightwing forces together won a majority of seats they would not rule out accepting support in the regional chamber from Vox.

Vox's campaigning had mainly been against illegal immigration and any decentralisation of powers from Madrid.

Pablo Iglesias, leader of the far-left Podemos party, called on all leftist groups to mobilise "to defend liberties, social justice, fraternity and ultimately democracy".

Diaz meanwhile called for "stability" as she ended her campaign, warning voters against forces of the right and far-right that "want to take us backwards".Paris (AFP) - Emmanuel Macron has pledged to restore disillusioned voters' trust in government by diligently delivering on his election promises, but his refusal to bow to the demands of tax protesters could hobble his presidency, experts say.

The "yellow vest" movement, which degenerated into street clashes and vandalism in Paris over the weekend, has emerged as the most serious challenge yet for the reform-minded former investment banker.

Calls are growing for Macron to give ground in his standoff with the protestors, who are furious over fuel taxes and other policies they say favour the rich.

So far he has refused to back down on the fuel tax hikes, offering instead a 500 million euro ($567 million) package of measures to help poor families pay their energy and transport bills.

Those overtures have been scorned by yellow vest leaders, who have vowed to press ahead with a movement which enjoys the backing of 70 to 80 percent of the French, according to opinion polls.

"The longer it goes on, the higher the political price," said Bruno Cautres of the Cevipof political research institute.

"But it's not clear if he's capable of fully understanding what's going on," he said.

Macron drew mockery early in his presidency for comparing his job to that of the Roman king of the gods Jupiter, staying above the fray of daily politics to focus on his long-term reform drive.

Yet in refusing to cancel the fuel taxes, analysts say Macron risks appearing insensitive to the plight of rural and small-town voters who have long felt abandoned by Parisian elites.

At the same time, ceding ground after dozens of cars were torched and businesses were looted might appear to be giving in to violence, and draw the ire of voters who back the government and its anti-pollution efforts.

"Emmanuel Macron is right not to speak because for now what he's saying isn't being heard," said Philippe Moreau-Chevrolet, a political communications adviser.

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"The only way to be heard now would be to announce major, concrete and immediate measures," he said.

- 'Tipping point' -

So far Macron has succeeded in standing firm against opposition to unpopular reforms, not least those he has overseen affecting labour laws, the public sector and the state rail operator SNCF.

Yet even in Macron's own party officials are urging a more proactive response to the yellow vests, so-called because of the high-visibility jackets which have come to symbolise the movement.

"We have doubtlessly been too distant, too technocratic, too sure of ourselves, too tone deaf at times," said Stanislas Guerini, who was elected head of Macron's Republic on the Move party as the violent protests raged Saturday.

Opposition lawmakers are calling for the suspension of new fuel tax increases set for January, or the cancellation of gas and electricity tariff hikes in the coming weeks.

Yellow vest leaders are also insisting that Macron reinstate the "wealth tax" on high earners which he eliminated shortly after his election.

Even in Macron's own camp many fear the movement could herald a broader populist wave, echoing the nationalist movements in other European nations which Macron has vowed to combat ahead of European Parliament elections next May.

"The dynamic is under way," said one of Macron's advisers under cover of anonymity.

"Emmanuel Macron has become more unpopular than (his predecessor) Francois Hollande and his political base is so weak," said Moreau-Chevrolet, adding that the president appeared to be "in denial".

And if the conflict deepens, Macron may find himself further isolated, compromising his ambitions for further economic reforms.

"Yellow vests: The tipping point of the presidency," French daily Le Monde headlined a front-page editorial Monday.

It would be an ironic turn of events for a president who swept away traditional parties by securing a groundswell of popular support from voters tired of politics as usual.

"The Napoleonic method which worked at first for launching his reforms is no longer working," Moreau-Chevrolet said.

"It's the end of an unprecedented political experiment in French history," he added. "And frankly, we're entering the unknown."Baikonur (Kazakhstan) (AFP) - A Soyuz spacecraft carrying Russian, American and Canadian astronauts arrived at the International Space Station on Monday, following the first manned launch since a failed launch in October.

Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, Anne McClain of NASA and David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency blasted off from Kazakhstan's Baikonur Cosmodrome earlier in the day.

They successfully docked at the ISS on schedule at 1736 GMT to begin an expected six and a half months aboard the ISS, the Russian Roscosmos space agency said via Twitter.

It was the first manned voyage for the Soviet-era Soyuz since October 11, when a rocket carrying Russia's Aleksey Ovchinin and US astronaut Nick Hague failed just minutes after blast-off, forcing the pair to make a harrowing emergency landing.

They escaped unharmed but the failed launch -- the first such incident in Russia's post-Soviet history -- raised concerns about the state of the Soyuz programme.

The Soyuz is the only means of reaching the ISS since the United States retired the space shuttle in 2011.

Kononenko, McClain and Saint-Jacques smiled and gave thumbs up to the cheering crowd including relatives as they ascended into the Soyuz capsule on Monday morning.

Minutes after take off, Roscosmos said the capsule was in orbit. NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine meanwhile thanked the US and Russian teams "for their dedication to making this launch a success".

- Risk 'part of our profession' -

In a successful rehearsal for Monday's flight, a Soyuz cargo vessel took off on November 16 from Baikonur and delivered several tonnes of food, fuel and supplies to the ISS.

Russia said last month the October launch had failed because of a sensor damaged during assembly at the Baikonur cosmodrome, but insisted the spacecraft remained reliable.

While flight commander Kononenko is beginning his fourth mission to add to an impressive 533 days in space, both Saint-Jacques and McClain are making their maiden trip.

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Crew commander Kononenko, 54, said during a press conference on the eve of the launch that "risk is part of our profession".

But he added that his team "absolutely" trusted those who had prepared for the flight.

European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst, NASA's Serena Aunon-Chancellor and Sergei Prokopyev of Roscosmos were set to greet the trio on arrival at the ISS.

Veteran Kononenko said the crew would conduct a spacewalk on December 11 as part of an investigation into a mysterious hole that has caused an air leak on the ISS.

While on board, Saint-Jacques will be involved in an experiment called "At Home in Space" which "takes a closer look at how crew members adapt to living with each other by creating a shared culture," according to the Canadian Space Agency.

Among the dozens of other experiments the new crew members will take part in is one that will use worms to examine muscle loss in space, led by British scientists.

The experiment could pave the way to new treatments for muscular conditions for people on Earth, according to the UK Space Agency.

- 'Spacewalking like rugby' -

McClain, 39, served in Iraq and has represented the United States in women's rugby.

She has said that training to spacewalk resembled the sport since it demands "grit, toughness, mental focus, and more".

Russia-US cooperation in space has remained one of the few areas not affected by a crisis in ties between the former Cold War enemies.

But comments by the combative chief of the Russian space agency, Dmitry Rogozin, have raised eyebrows.

He recently joked Russia would send a mission to the Moon to "verify" whether or not NASA lunar landings ever took place.

In recent years Russia's debt-laden space industry has suffered a number of mishaps including the loss of cargo spacecraft and satellites.

At a press conference following the successful docking, Rogozin announced March 1, 2019, as the date for the next manned launch to the ISS.

He said Ovchinin and Hague would be on board, along with NASA's Christina Koch.United Nations (United States) (AFP) - The UN Security Council will meet behind closed doors on Tuesday at the request of France and Britain after they accused Iran of test-firing a medium-range missile at the weekend, diplomats said.

The United States said the missile launch on Saturday was a violation of a UN resolution that endorsed the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, from which Washington has withdrawn.

That resolution calls on Iran to refrain from testing missiles capable of carrying a nuclear weapon.

France said it was concerned by the test-firing with the foreign ministry describing it as "provocative and destabilising" and "does not conform" with UN resolution 2231 on the Iran deal.

British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt called the missile test "provocative, threatening and inconsistent" with the resolution and said Britain was determined "that it should cease."

Iran has long maintained that its missile program is defensive in nature and not aimed at ensuring the delivery of a nuclear weapon, a stance supported by Russia at the Security Council.

Washington's Iran envoy Brian Hook urged the European Union to slap sanctions that target Tehran's missile program as US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo traveled to Brussels for talks with European partners.

The United States decided in May to withdraw from the 2015 nuclear deal and reimpose sanctions on Iran, to the dismay of its Europeans allies.

The nuclear deal provides for a lifting of sanctions against Iran in return for curbs on its nuclear activities.

The remaining five signatories to the nuclear deal -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- have backed an EU effort to set up a special payment system in a bid to maintain trade and business ties with Iran.PARIS  When Emmanuel Macron rose to power, he put the environment at the heart of his agenda. Eighteen months later, anger over those policies has stoked protests that are a huge challenge for the French president.

Rioters torched cars and buildings in central Paris on Saturday following two weeks of protests caused partly by higher fuel taxes, which Macron says are needed to fight climate change. Some protesters called for him to resign.



Macron visited the graffiti-damaged Arc de Triomphe monument and held an emergency meeting on security Sunday, a day after central Paris was hit by France's worst riot in a generation. Paris police said Sunday that 133 people had been injured and 412 had been arrested as protesters trashed the streets of the capital during a demonstration against rising taxes and the high cost of living.

Macron's plight illustrates a conundrum: How do political leaders introduce policies that will do long-term good for the environment without inflicting extra costs on voters that may damage their chances of re-election?

It is a question facing leaders across the world as delegates hold talks in the Polish city of Katowice this week to try to produce a "rule book" to flesh out details of the 2015 Paris Agreement on fighting climate change.

"Clearly, countries where inequalities are the highest are the ones where these kinds of push-backs are mostly likely," Francois Gemenne, a specialist in environmental geopolitics at SciencesPo university in Paris, said of the political risks.

Naming Italy, the United States and Britain as countries where environmental moves could risk a voter backlash, he said: "I guess it's one of the reasons why populist leaders tend to be very skeptical about climate change and environmental measures."

The protests in France have inspired a similar movement in neighboring Belgium, where protesters took to the streets on Friday.

There have also been small-scale protests in Canada over Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's plan to impose a federal carbon tax on provinces unwilling to combat climate change.

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What was once widely seen by governments as a win-win transition to cleaner energies now looks to be a process in which short-term costs trigger huge social disruption, followed by possible long-run gains.

Carbon taxes

Macron said after the latest protests in Paris that he would convene ministers to discuss the crisis on his return from a G20 summit in Argentina. Prime Minister Edouard Philippe canceled plans to go to Katowice for the climate change summit.

Macron introduced new carbon taxes to urge motorists to change behavior and protect the environment.

Macron has watered down some of his campaign pledges on the environment since he took office, and his popular environment minister quit in August over the sluggishness of progress. But he has shown little willingness to compromise in the face of the protests.

The fuel tax is accompanied by other measures including incentives to encourage people to buy electric vehicles.

Unveiling a medium-term energy plan for France last week, he held out an olive branch by saying he would review fuel prices each quarter, but said the carbon taxes would stay.

His goal is for France to cut carbon emissions by 40 percent by 2030 and boost the use of cleaner energies at the same time. Emissions are currently rising and 75 percent of energy use in France originates from fossil fuels.

"When we talk about the actions of the nation in response to the challenges of climate change, we have to say that we have done little," he said.

Macron has also said he will fight to try to save the Paris climate agreement, which aims to keep global temperature rises to between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius, a critical threshold.

Scientists are increasingly concerned that countries are falling short on their targets and must be more ambitious. Yet citizens are worried about their immediate lives.

Diverting the revenue

Another challenge facing leaders is how they use the proceeds from policies intended to help the environment: Should money raised from carbon taxes be used directly to combat climate change, or to plug holes in national accounts?

In Canada, addressing the question of how governments use the money raised from carbon taxes, Trudeau's government has promised to return the money collected from the provinces directly to taxpayers.

But in France most of the revenue generated will be used to tackle the national budget deficit, increasing anger at Macron, who left-wing opponents call the "president of the rich."

Of the 34 billion euros ($38.71 billion) the French government will raise on fuel taxes in 2018, a sum of only 7.2 billion euros is earmarked for environmental measures.

Simon Dalby, a specialist in the political economy of climate change at Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada, says carbon taxes should be part of wider measures to alter how people live, including better, greener transport and buildings.

"It is all about policies for transition to a post-fossil-fuel world, something that needs to be done quickly if the worst of the predicted climate disruptions are to be avoided in the coming decades," he said.

Gemenne said the protests in France were unlikely to go away soon, and may emerge in other countries as they take more determined action on emissions.

The danger, he said, was inaction, or acting too late to prevent global warming. At the same time, politicians need to be able to show they were acting fairly and equitably.

Reporting by Bate Felix. Material from The Associated Press was used in this report.



Related Video:BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - French President Emmanuel Macron said on Saturday that the wave of violence and vandalism in Paris on Saturday could not be justified in any way and had nothing to do with a peaceful expression of legitimate anger. "No cause justifies that security forces are attacked, shops pillaged, public or private buildings set on fire, pedestrians or journalists threatened or that the Arc de Triomphe is sullied," Macron told a news conference in Buenos Aires, where he was attending the G20 summit. Declining to take questions after a day of rioting in Paris, he said those who had carried out the violence merely sought to spread chaos. He said he would convene a meeting of senior ministers has soon as he returns to discuss how to respond. (Reporting by John Irish; editing by Luke Baker)The United States has had only 45 presidents over its two and a quarter centuries as a nation, and we just lost one of them: George H.W. Bush, the 41st. Of course we will and should mourn, but we would be remiss if we did not as well take a few moments to learn from his four years in the Oval Office and from the other 90 years of his remarkable life.

First and most important, we should see that people matter. There is little about history that is inevitable. No two people given the same situation would choose to do the same things, much less do them in the same way.

For example: When Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait in August 1989, some said it was unfortunate but tolerable. Others (including nearly a majority in the U.S. Senate) argued it was intolerable but not worth fighting over, that we should give economic sanctions more time to work even though there was little reason to believe that they would ever persuade Saddam to give up most, much less all, of his conquest.

Bush disagreed, suggesting that if much more time passed there would be no Kuwait left to save. He also maintained that at stake was not just energy supplies critical to the global economy but the character of the emerging postCold War world, and that if this aggression were allowed to stand it would soon be followed by aggression elsewhere.

Bush dispatched half a million American soldiers to the Persian Gulf, and after diplomacy failed to persuade Saddam to exit Kuwait, ordered them and their counterparts from the international coalition he had assembled into battle. Military success was quick to come and, fortunately, came at a cost that was relatively low  indeed, far lower than many had predicted. It is difficult to imagine the world would be in better shape today if tyranny and aggression had been allowed to prevail.

Implicit in the above is the lesson that the United States cannot turn its back on the world without paying a price. Bush fought in World War II, at 18  the youngest American fighter pilot in the war. He understood that isolationism is folly, that the United States cannot insulate itself from the economic, physical and human consequences of a world that comes apart.

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But while there has been no substitute for U.S. leadership, the United States also could not go it alone. Unilateralism is no more viable than isolationism. In the Gulf War, the United States benefitted from foreign military contributions, access to military bases, financial assistance and the support built by the diplomacy that came before and after the conflict. Multilateralism and the nations security can, and often do, go hand in hand.

Again, this need for partners is, if anything, truer today. So many of the challenges defining and threatening todays world  from climate change and terrorism to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, protectionism and disease  cannot be managed, much less solved, by any country acting alone, even one as powerful and wealthy as the United States.

There are as well personal lessons to be learned from the life of the 41st president. One is the importance of small gestures, of hand-written notes in this time of emails and tweets. Bush also exemplified the notion that there is nothing you cannot accomplish if you dont care who gets the credit; modesty can bring rewards.

Bush understood that while he was the president, his hold was temporary, and that the office was more important than any personal or political consideration. Everything about him was consistent with the notion that public service was a noble calling and that politics need not be a blood sport. Politics can bring us together. But that requires a willingness to compromise, to see those on the other side as opponents  not enemies  and to choose the public good over the personal.

Bush did just this when, in 1990, he went against his campaign pledge not to raise taxes. By agreeing to a small increase in the personal rate, he made a bipartisan deal possible, one that cut spending and put the U.S. economy on a trajectory that in the years to come would help raise economic growth and, eventually, eliminate the deficit.

Bush paid a large political price for this decision. It triggered challenges from within the Republican party and from a third party in the 1992 general election that helped pave the way to Bushs defeat by Bill Clinton.

But, as was typical of George H.W. Bush, he accepted this defeat with grace. He did not challenge the vote count or the legitimacy of a political system he revered. He let the man who was to become the 42nd president know he was rooting for his success. And after Clinton too concluded his presidency, the men found ways to travel the world together to help people in need and to send the message that shared love of country could and should take precedence over all else.

Yes, let us mourn the passing of the 41st president. But let us also learn from his life.Former President George H.W. Bush will be laid to rest on Thursday at his presidential library and museum in Texas. Several memorial events have been planned in the days leading up to his final interment.

Bush, who served as the 41st president from 1989 to 1993, died Friday at the age of 94. He is survived by two siblings, five children including former President George W. Bush and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, 17 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Monday-Wednesday: U.S. Capitol

The U.S. flag flies at half-staff in front of the U.S. Capitol in tribute to former President George H.W. Bush, early on Dec. 2, 2018, in Washington, D.C. (Photo: ALEX EDELMAN via Getty Images)

Bushs casket will arrive at the U.S. Capitol on Monday at 4:45 p.m., where an arrival ceremony will take place involving both the House and Senate.

The former president will lie in state in the rotunda until Wednesday morning. The public may pay their respects from 7:30 p.m. Eastern time Monday to 8:45 a.m. Eastern time Wednesday.

Wednesday: Washington National Cathedral

(Photo: Westend61 via Getty Images)

Bushs casket will be transported to the Washington National Cathedral on Wednesday, where a memorial service for friends and family will be held at 11 a.m. Eastern.

Following the service, Bushs casket will return to Joint Base Andrews at 1:15 p.m. Eastern before being flown to Texas.

President Donald Trump has designated Wednesday a national day of mourning.

Wednesday-Thursday: St. Martins Episcopal Church

The funeral for former first lady Barbara Bush at St. Martin's Episcopal Church in Houston on April 21, 2018. (Photo: SIPA USA/PA Images)

Later Wednesday, Bush will lie in repose at St. Martins Episcopal Church in Houston  the city he called home for many years  from 7:45 p.m. Eastern to 6 a.m. Eastern on Thursday, CNN reported.

A memorial service is planned at the church on Thursday at 11 a.m. Eastern, according to CNN.

Thursday: George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

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Flags flying at half-staff are seen at the entrance of the George Bush Presidential Library during sunset in College Station, Texas, on Dec. 1, 2018. (Photo: SUZANNE CORDEIRO via Getty Images)

Bush will be laid to rest in his family plot behind George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas.

The former president will be buried alongside his wife, Barbara Bush, who died in April, and daughter Robin, who died of leukemia in 1953 at the age of 3.

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On Thursday, the presidents casket will arrive in College Station by train, accompanied by Bush family members and close friends, according to Texas A&M Universitys website. The train will unload at the railroad stop at Wellborn Road and George Bush Drive.

The library is located roughly 100 miles northwest of Houston.

Related Coverage

Former President George H.W. Bush Dead At Age 94

President George H.W. Bush Remembered: He Taught Us To Be Kinder, Gentler

George H.W. Bush's Life Remembered In Photographs

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.Playing on racial fears and patriotism, 41s road to his one-term presidency was studded with unseemly tactics

Bush approached campaigning with a level of what-it-takes cynicism unmatched by any modern president between Nixon and Trump. Photograph: Carlos Schiebeck/AFP/Getty Images

The 1980 conversation aboard the small campaign plane was off the record, but I wish I had written up some notes afterwards. Shuttling from Iowa to New Hampshire during the Republican primary season, a wary George Bush found himself seated across a table from his entire traveling press corps  a network correspondent and me.

Like many men of his generation, Bush filled the gaps in what he regarded as an awkward conversation with second world war stories. Never mentioning his own ordeal as a pilot shot down over the Pacific in 1944, Bush told grisly tales of mishaps aboard the aircraft carrier San Jacinto, illustrating the position of the planes on the deck with salt and pepper shakers, pens and a napkin.

These macabre wartime memories were at odds with Bushs manic persona as a candidate in 1980. Before the Iowa caucuses, I recall the 55-year-old Bush frenetically doing pushups at a YMCA in Des Moines to demonstrate that he was up for the 80s and his 68-year-old rival, Ronald Reagan, was not. After Bush won a major upset in Iowa (soon to be erased by the verdict from New Hampshire), he uncharacteristically began bragging about having the Big Mo, an odd shorthand for momentum.

When Bush again ran for president in 1988  after two terms as Reagans sometimes neglected Sancho Panza  he had only won two political races in his life, both in an overwhelmingly Republican House district in Houston during the 1960s. This might explain why Bush approached campaigning with a level of what-it-takes cynicism unmatched by any modern president between Richard Nixon and Donald Trump.

Bushs scorched-earth 1988 race against Democrat Michael Dukakis is often summarised by the name Willie Horton. Horton was a convicted murderer who raped a woman and killed her fiance while briefly released from prison under a furlough program for good behaviour that Dukakis supported as Massachusetts governor.

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The Bush campaign, directed by 37-year-old Lee Atwater, never showed Hortons face in a campaign commercial, although it did use a jailhouse revolving door to symbolise the furlough program. But a closely aligned Republican group directly played on racial fears by highlighting a frightening image of the African-American murderer.

As he was dying from a brain tumour in 1991, Atwater apologised for the vicious tenor of the campaign in a Life magazine article: Fighting Dukakis, I said that I would strip the bark off the little bastard and make Willie Horton his running mate. I am sorry for both statements: the first for its naked cruelty, the second because it makes me sound racist, which I am not.

This was not a case of Bushs reputation being tarred by overzealous underlings like Atwater. The candidate personally excoriated Dukakis for vetoing state legislation that would have required teachers to preside over mandated patriotism. What is it about the Pledge of Allegiance that upsets him so much? Bush asked with a sneer at a Los Angeles rally. Then to drive home the theme that Dukakis was less than a red-blooded American, Bush campaigned at a New Jersey flag factory.

Until Trump, Bush presided over the most dispiriting low-road campaign that I had ever covered.

With his disdain for politics and, by extension, the voters, Bush governed from the Oval Office with an amnesiacs confusion over how he got there. He had pandered to conservatives with the famous line in his 1988 convention speech: Read my lips. No new taxes. Then Bush, the prudent president, repudiated that pledge in 1990 giving rise to the angry rightwing populism of Pat Buchanan, who won a stunning 40% of the vote against the incumbent president in the 1992 New Hampshire primary.

Much of the torrent of praise for Bushs one-term presidency is justified. His determination and caution during the Gulf war were exemplary, from patiently assembling a true international coalition to resisting the heedless war cry On to Baghdad when Saddam Hussein retreated from Kuwait.

Adroit statecraft and public understatement by Bush during the breakup of the Soviet Union helped manage the transition to freedom with an exquisite sensitivity to Russian feelings. However, parades and some dramatic Reagan-esque oratory might have inspired Americans with the shimmering significance of victory in the cold war.

George Bushs virtues like competence, kindness, dignity and modesty trigger a wave of justified nostalgia in the Trump era. But part of the Bush legacy is also how his guttersnipe 1988 campaign helped hasten the downward slide of American politics.Donald Trump has been invited to George HW Bushs funeral amid calls for unity after the 41st president passed away on Friday.

Those who knew the former commander-in-chief said Mr Trumps invitation was a deliberate choice he made before his death.

Presidential historian Douglas Brinkley told People Magazine over the weekend Mr Bush didnt want to stiff a sitting president.

In recent days, Mr Bush has been remembered as an American unifier during his tenure in the White House, with his funeral appearing to offer that same distinction.

During his inaugural address in 1989, the former president said: I take as my guide the hope of a saint: in crucial things, unity; in important things, diversity; in all things, generosity.

Melania Trump is also expected to attend the funeral, after the White House designated Wednesday as a national day of mourning.

The first lady previously attended Republican senator John McCains funeral earlier this year, along with former heads of state and high-profile politicians on either side of the political aisle  except for her husband, who did not receive an invitation to the event. Mr Trump has attacked Mr McCain over the years, even criticising him for being captured during the Vietnam War.

Mary Kate Cary, a former speechwriter for Mr Bush and a senior fellow for presidential studies at the University of Virginias Miller centre, described the former presidents push for unification across the globe in a recent op-ed for USA Today.

Under his leadership, the German people are now a we instead of us and them  and more important, a part of the great we of free nations and free people in the world, she wrote.

The international coalition of free nations he built to stand up for the people of Kuwait was another example. Unity, diversity and generosity were the hallmarks of his most important achievements.

She added: My hope is that his passing will remind all of us of the values he lived by, and how desperately important they are to the future of our democracy.

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Her sentiment was echoed by countless Americans across social media, who spent the weekend posting old photos and quotes from the former president while reminiscing of a seemingly more unified era in US politics.

Mr Trump appeared to slow down the tense rhetoric online and in public statements following the former presidents death, cancelling an expected press conference after the G20 Summit in Argentina.

He wrote on Twitter, I was very much looking forward to having a press conference just prior to leaving Argentina because we have had such great success in our dealing with various countries and their leaders at the G20, however, out of respect for the Bush Family and former President George H.W. Bush we will wait until after the funeral to have a press conference.

Before departing Buenos Aires, the president said: Well be spending three days of mourning and three days of celebrating a really great mans life.

I was very much looking forward to having a press conference just prior to leaving Argentina because we have had such great success in our dealing with various countries and their leaders at the G20....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 1, 2018

....However, out of respect for the Bush Family and former President George H.W. Bush we will wait until after the funeral to have a press conference.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 1, 2018

However, it remains to be seen whether those calls for unity will actually take shape under Mr Trump.

A meeting Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi were set to have with the president on Tuesday was reportedly postponed until further notice, with sources citing Mr Bushs funeral as the reason for the delay.

Mr Bush will be laid to rest at the George Bush Presidential Library & Museum in Texas, where he will join his late wife, Barbara, and their child, Robin, who died at an early age of leukaemia.By Andrea Shalal and Sabine Siebold BERLIN (Reuters) - Germany will not withdraw its political support for the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline with Russia, its foreign minister said on Monday, as some lawmakers suggested curtailing the project to punish Moscow for its seizure of Ukrainian ships and their crew. Russia is resisting international calls to release three Ukrainian ships seized last month in the Kerch Strait, which controls access to the Sea of Azov near the Crimea region that Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014. Moscow accuses the 24 sailors of illegally entering Russian waters by trying to pass through the strait. Kiev says the sailors did nothing wrong, and its ships have the right to pass through the strait to reach Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov. Several German lawmakers have linked the standoff to support for Nord Stream 2, an $11 billion pipeline from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea. But Foreign minister Heiko Maas, a member of the Social Democrats, junior partners in Chancellor Angela Merkel's coalition, told reporters the pipeline was a commercial project that would continue even if German firms pull out. Remaining part of the project gave Germany political influence, including over Russian energy policy toward Ukraine, Maas said. "It would still be built, but there would not be anyone advocating for alternative gas transit through Ukraine. That is why we consider it important to remain engaged politically." Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, a leading candidate to replace Chancellor Angela Merkel at the helm of her Christian Democrat party, said on Sunday one option might be to reduce the amount of gas that will flow through the pipeline. Juergen Hardt, foreign policy spokesman for Merkel's conservatives in parliament, also raised questions about Nord Stream 2 and said further sanctions against Russia would have to be considered unless diplomatic efforts bore fruit. "When diplomatic efforts to ease tensions fail, we cannot ignore the question of whether it is responsible to further increase the dependence of Germany and the European Union on Russian gas," he told Reuters. "NOT TOTALLY UNCONDITIONAL" The pipeline project aims to double capacity of the existing Nord Stream 1 pipeline from next year, bypassing traditional routes through Ukraine. Germany has insisted Ukraine should continue to play a role - and receive revenues - for allowing gas shipments across its territory. Merkel secured a pledge from Russian President Vladimir Putin on the issue in August, Maas said. Russia's Gazprom is the sole shareholder in Nord Stream 2, shouldering half of the construction cost. Its Western partners are Germany's Uniper and Wintershall, Anglo-Dutch group Royal Dutch Shell, France's Engie and Austria's OMV. The United States, also keen to export gas to Europe, argues that the pipeline will harm Ukraine's economic interests and leave Germany dependent on Russia for decades to come. After meeting Putin at the G20 summit, Merkel called on Russia to release the Ukrainian sailors and allow shipping access through the Kerch Strait to the Sea of Azov. But she did not endorse further sanctions against Moscow. Kramp-Karrenbauer, a close Merkel ally, on Friday said the European Union and the United States should consider banning from their ports Russian ships originating from the Sea of Azov in response to the incident. Another contender for the CDU leadership job, Health Minister Jens Spahn, said it was important to set new limits. "I think it's an important signal to Vladimir Putin and Russia that Nord Stream 2 is not totally unconditional and it can't be that the project continues whatever he does and how far things are escalated," he said. (Additional reporting by Andreas Rinke and Michelle Martin; Editing by Riham Alkousaa and Mark Potter)Paris (AFP) - President Emmanuel Macron was elected on a promise to burnish France's image on the global stage, but as shops and hotels counted the costs Monday of rioting over the weekend, many fear they won't have much to cheer for Christmas.

Violent anti-government protests on Saturday engulfed chic Paris shopping districts, where a police lockdown and vandalism forced many stores to shut.

Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire met with business representatives Monday to tally the damage from arson and shattered windows, looted shelves and lost revenue as the scenes of urban unrest stopped locals and tourists alike from venturing out.

"The impact is severe and ongoing," Le Maire said after the meeting.

Some retailers had accumulated sales declines of between 20 and 40 percent during the demonstrations, while some restaurants had lost 20 percent to 50 percent of their takings, he said.

Macron himself had already warned last week that "one shouldn't underestimate the shock to people, in France and abroad, of seeing in the media what looked like war scenes."

"Our worst fears were confirmed: this third straight weekend of blockages caused a very significant drop in activity for all businesses," Jacques Creyssel of the FCD retailing federation told AFP on Sunday.

"The lost revenue and losses, especially in food services, is going to be in the billions of euros," Creyssel said.

In an attempt to protect retailers, police had cordoned off access to the Champs Elysees on Saturday after clashes the previous weekend saw the iconic avenue smothered in tear gas and smoke from burning barricades.

But the effect was merely to displace the violence, with protesters attacking shops, banks, cars and buildings in surrounding streets instead.

The chaos has caused fear for business during the busy year-end holidays, when retail revenues generally rise from 8-9 billion euros a week to around 15 billion euros ($17 billion), according to Creyssel.

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During the first "yellow vest" protests on November 17, when nearly 300,000 people angry over President Emmanuel Macron's tax policies began blocking roads, national retail sales plummeted by 35 percent, he said.

The losses continued to stack up a week later as protesters converged on Paris for their first major rally on November 24.

A manager of the famed Alsace brasserie on the Champs Elysees later told Le Parisien he had to evacuate clients through a back door before closing for the day, costing him 50,000 euros.

- 'Decimated France's image' -

Officials expect even worse damage from this weekend's clashes, which began at the Arc de Triomphe war memorial and then fanned out to key shopping areas.

Chanel and Dior boutiques near the monument were looted and two major department stores near the Opera, whose elaborate Christmas window displays draw thousands of families, were evacuated.

"Once we learn the costs of this destruction, I think everyone will be stunned at how huge it will be," Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo said Sunday.

She also warned about the damage to Paris's reputation, after TV footage showed frightened customers cowering in hotel lobbies or restaurants, as roving packs of protesters swarmed past.

Saturday's protest "has decimated the welcoming image of Paris and France," said Roland Heguy of the CAT tourism federation, warning that this Christmas season was "at risk, if not already lost."

France had been on track for a banner tourism year, with a record 17.1 million hotel rooms booked in the first half, he said, recovering from the slump which followed the jihadist attacks of 2015.

On Monday, Le Maire said that for the first time since the start of the protests hotel reservations had fallen by "around 15 to 20 percent."

With further rallies called for Saturday, the Chamber of Commerce for Paris and the surrounding Ile-de-France region urged the government to "re-establish an atmosphere that favours business operations during the crucial year-end period."

That appeal was echoed by the Medef employers' federation, which called on the government to enter into dialogue with the protesters.

While the Paris violence was reprehensible, elsewhere "the protesters have acted responsibly and with dignity," it said.

"Some of their demands should be taken into account."When President George H.W. Bush, who died on Nov. 30 at the age of 94, eight months after his wife Barbara, first appeared on the cover of TIME in 1970, it was as a knight battling for a Senate seat in Texas. Bush was part of a wave of Republicans seeking office in that chamber at the time  one whose sense of humor made an impression on the magazine:

Chronicling the travels and travails of Texas George Bush, Correspondent Leo Janos reports that one afternoon they landed at a private airport in Fort Worth only to find the place deserted. Well, what does TIME think of this warm and friendly reception? Bush asked. Positively Humphreyish, replied Janos. No, grinned the candidate. Bush-league.

Bush lost that race, but over the nearly 50 years that followed he would prove that his political skills were anything but amateur. From Senate candidate to President of the United States to political patriarch, Bush appeared on the cover of TIME in all those guises, nearly two dozen times. Heres a look back at that evolution.GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP)  A Hamas-controlled military court on Monday sentenced six Palestinians to death for allegedly collaborating with Israel.

The court sentenced another eight defendants in Gaza to prison for various periods.

It was the most verdicts to be issued on a single day since the Islamic militant group wrested control of the territory from the internationally-backed Palestinian Authority in 2007.

Hamas has executed 28 Palestinians, the majority on charges of aiding Israeli security and intelligence agencies, since 2007.

Rights groups accuse Hamas of killing dozens of other suspected collaborators extra-judicially, especially during the three wars it has waged with Israel.

The verdicts were linked to a botched undercover Israeli commando raid last month in which seven Palestinian militants and an Israeli officer were killed. Hamas says the defendants were implicated in previous incidents.



John Barrowman spent the night in hospital after falling and spraining his ankle on Im A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here.

The Torchwood star took a tumble while he was off to wash the camps pots and pans with show fave Harry Redknapp.

According to reports, he was assessed by the medical team on the show, and was then taken to hospital for an x-ray, where he spent the night.

It meant that he was excluded from the public vote, in which Hollyoaks actor Malique Thompson-Dwyer became the second celeb to be evicted from the jungle.

John Barrowman (Credit: ITV)

Sending his love to his fellow campmates from his hospital bed, his message read: I am lying here sipping champagne in a hospital with six male strippers. Continue to live jungle life as normal.

I want to be back in there with you all soon but please get some rest this evening. PS, I want my f***ing dinner when I get back!

Hes now back at camp, according to ITV.

A spokesperson for the show said: John Barrowman sustained a sprain to his ankle, but is now back in the jungle.

Barrowman is currently an outside bet to win the show, with odds of 12/1, while Harry Redknapp is hot favourite at 1/2.

The show returns tonight at 9pm.

Read more

Malique voted off Im A Celebrity

Fleur East is obsessed with strip clubs

Im A Celebs Dec Donnelly says pineapple on pizza for perverts



DUBAI, Dec 2 (Reuters) - Iran will continue missile tests to build up its defence and deterrence capabilities, a top military spokesman was quoted as saying on Sunday, following a U.S. allegation that Tehran had carried out a new missile test.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Saturday condemned what he described as Iran's testing of a medium-range ballistic missile capable of carrying multiple warheads as a violation of the international agreement on Tehran's nuclear programme.

"Missile tests ... are carried out for defence and the country's deterrence and we will continue this," General Abolfazl Shekarchi, a senior spokesman for Iran's armed forces, was quoted as saying by the semi-official Tasnim news agency. He did not confirm or deny that Iran had carried out a new test. (Reporting by Dubai newsroom)Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi speaks at an event hosted by Middle East Monitor in London in September - REUTERS

A friend of murdered Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi is suing an Israeli software company he believes helped the kingdom intercept messages sent to him from the dissident criticising Mohammed bin Salman.

Omar Abdulaziz, a Saudi national who now lives in exile in Canada, filed a lawsuit on Sunday against NSO Group alleging its spyware helped the Saudi government gain access to his smartphone.

The spyware allows its customers to secretly listen to calls and read messages on a targeted phone.

The lawsuit, filed in Tel Aviv, accuses NSO Group of breaking international laws by selling its software to oppressive regimes.

"The hacking of my phone played a major role in what happened to Jamal, I am really sorry to say," Mr Abdulaziz said. "The guilt is killing me."

Quebec-based Saudi activist Omar Abdulaziz exchanged messages with Khashoggi in the months before his death Credit: YouTube

In messages sent to Mr Abdelaziz, Khashoggi called Crown Prince Mohammed, the de-facto ruler of the kingdom, a beast and likened him to a Pac-Man who devours everything in his path.

"The more victims he eats, the more he wants," said Khashoggi in one message sent in May, just after a group of Saudi womens rights activists were arrested. "I will not be surprised if the oppression will reach even those who are cheering him on."

Saudi officials would have been able to see the more than 400 message exchanged between the pair on encrypted apps such as WhatsApp.

Khashoggi and Mr Abdulaziz, 27, who sought asylum in Montreal, began to talk about plans to form an electronic army of young Saudis living in the country to try to undermine the governments online propaganda, according to messages seen by CNN.

Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud meets with British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, in Riyadh Credit: Reuters

In early August, Mr Abdulaziz discovered the Saudi government was aware of their project.

"How did they know?" asked Khashoggi in a message. "There must have been a gap," says Mr Abdulaziz.

Three minutes later Khashoggi writes back: "God help us."

Khashoggi was killed two months later on Oct 2 in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.

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The CIA has concluded that the murder of the Washington Post columnist was ordered by the crown prince himself.

Mr Abdulaziz revealed last month that researchers at the University of Toronto's Citizen Lab reported his phone had been hacked by military-grade spyware.

According to them, the software was the invention of NSO Group, and deployed at the behest of the Saudi Arabian government.

NSO Group has previously faced lawsuits from citizens from Mexico and Qatar, who say the technology was used to hack their smartphones.

The human rights group Amnesty International has also recently accused the NSO Group of helping Saudi Arabia spy on a member of the organisations staff.

In a statement, the group says its technology helps governments fight crime, and is fully vetted and licensed by the Israeli government.

"Our products have a long track record of assisting governments in preventing suicide bombers, stopping drug lords and sex traffickers, and helping safely return victims of kidnapping," the statement said.

"If there is suspicion of misuse, we investigate it and take the appropriate actions, including suspending or terminating a contract.



Theresa May has clashed with Phillip Schofield over refusing to be pinned down to whether or not she would resign if her proposed Brexit deal isnt voted through.

The Prime Minister had previously postponed her visit to This Morning, but finally took her place on the couch  and Schofield wasnt prepared to give her an easy ride.

After grilling May on whether the Brexit discussions spelled disaster and what the deal actually meant for the general public, things came to a head when Schofield couldnt get a straight answer on any resignation plans.

What will happen if MPs reject Theresa May's EU withdrawal deal? pic.twitter.com/W9Pz8GOeEH  This Morning (@thismorning) December 3, 2018

He said: What happens to you if they vote you down? The next day, what will you be doing? Will you still be Prime Minister?

May began to answer: Im very clear that as Prime Minister Ive got a duty to deliver

But as Schofield kept interrupting with But if you dont?, she eventually snapped: Just let me finish my sentence!

Theresa May, how do you expect to handle Brexit when you can't even handle Phillip Schofield? Phillip. Schofield.  Ri the Human  (@airswan) December 3, 2018

@ThisMorning Theresa may shouting at phillip schofield on #ThisMorning haha comical ' let her finish phil   Leah (@leahstevo) December 3, 2018

The presenter told her: I know what youre going to say, and she shot back: Well, why did you ask me the question then if you know what Im going to say?

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Schofield said: Youre going to say you have a duty to deliver it, youre going to work very hard to deliver it, Im going to say my question was if you dont deliver it, what happens? Do you resign?

May gave the evasive reply: Formally what happens if the vote doesnt go through is that the Government has to come back to Parliament within a certain amount of time and say what the next step is. But Im focusing on getting that vote through.

Prime Minster @theresa_may is clear that there will be no second referendum under her leadership #Brexit pic.twitter.com/pW88tUXEJC  This Morning (@thismorning) December 3, 2018

Acknowledging that just 14% of people in a recent survey felt that Mays deal was a good one, she confirmed that she would not allow a second referendum.

This is the deal. Its this deal or no deal. The message has been very clear, its taken 18 months of negotiation, she said.

Dear BBC please sack John Humphries, Evan Davis & Kuenssberg & appoint Phillip Schofield as your top political journalist- "you booking a holiday? you think youll have a job in two weeks time?

Theresa May 'wrecked' pic.twitter.com/wiEnuUfUq5 #Brexit #MayMustGo #GTTO #JC4PM  Jerry Hicks (@JerryHicksUnite) December 3, 2018

Meanwhile, co-host Rochelle Humes just wanted to know what the Mays holiday plans were.

She asked: What about you personally though, because this is a lot. Does your husband Philip ever just say let them do it, lets go on holiday. What about the strain on you?

May replied: In any job there are times that are tough and you have to work through it, politics is the same. Philip is a huge support to me and he says I must do what I believe to be right.

The clash between which channel will host the live debate between Theresa May and Jeremy Corbyn rumbles on and it seems the PM is keen not to miss #Strictly! pic.twitter.com/mtQ6LCod6K  This Morning (@thismorning) December 3, 2018

The PM got her own back on ITV star Schofield at the end of the interview as they discussed a potential live TV debate with Jeremy Corbyn and whether it would air on ITV or the BBC.

She said: He said he wanted to be on ITV so he could watch the final of Im a Celebrity. Actually, I think his proposal meant that Id miss Strictly. I hate to say this on ITV, but Im a bit of a Strictly fan.

Read more

Theresa Mays last-minute no-show on This Morning

Public support for Theresa Mays Brexit deal increases

Whats next for Brexit? Yahoo News explainsOn Thursday night at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C., Mary Rice Hasson hosted the inaugural Kate OBeirne Event, in honor of our late National Review and National Review Institute colleague. The event was entitled The Future of the Church: Synod, Scandal, and Solace, sponsored by the Catholic Womens Forum, a program of the Ethics and Public Policy Center. I was honored to say a few words at the start of the program about my beloved friend. The following piece has been adapted from my remarks.

Theres so much I can and want to say about Kate OBeirne, but I hope these brief remarks help us all a little.

I first met Kate OBeirne when I was an undergraduate at the Catholic University of America. I was an intern at the Heritage Foundation, and she was vice president of government relations there. I looked up to her, even before I knew her. When I got to know her, my gratitude to her, and to God for her, only ever grew. It only ever has.

She was wise and fun. She was smart and bold.

As many of you know, she was a longtime presence on CNNs Capital Gang and Washington editor at National Review among many other things. But as the tributes testified when she died, she was above all a wife, mother, sister, friend, and mentor. She was godmother to Bob Novak, Judge Bork, and our beloved colleague Ramesh Ponnuru. She was a Marian presence in the Washington halls of power.

I often associate Kate with Mary. One dear reason was just a cute little story from her later years, when she gave me a bracelet for my birthday with various images of Mary  Our Lady of Lourdes and of Fatima, and the Immaculate Conception. She had told me of a few other people to whom she had given the same bracelet and said we were in the Mary Club. She wanted us to remember Mary always. She wanted to keep her close. And she wanted that for others.

I remember another time when the conflict with the Obama White House over the Health and Human Services mandate and religious liberty had begun, and all Kate really wanted was for all Catholics to pray a Hail Mary for religious liberty after mass. Sure, she had lots of political and policy insights, and she spent her days addressing those, but she also knew where the real power was.

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One of the last times she was on TV, it was in Rome, with some of our friends. It was only one of a few times when we got to be on television together, which was always great, because she would make me sound better than I would ever be on my own. We were there with Mary Matalin and Peggy Noonan  with whom we especially loved to be in Rome, and were blessed to be more than once  on Raymond Arroyos show at the time of the canonizations of John Paul II and John XXIII. Kate told the story of one of John Paul IIs miracles, when she met him with her husband, Jim, and their sons Phil and John, in his private chapel after mass. She said that she was actually speechless upon meeting him  which was the miracle. If you knew her, you heard her  she did have the gift for saying the funniest and cleverest and wisest things. And you wanted to hear more. You also enjoyed when she repeated something you said, making you feel so much smarter than you had ever felt on your own. She lifted people up and helped us be better and enjoy life more and be holier in some of the most attractive ways, drawing others to the same.

But I also have to tell you that speechlessness that day wasnt actually a miracle of Saint John Paul II. Sanctity filled her with wonder. I traveled the world with Kate OBeirne, and I saw her silent many times. She was a beloved and loving daughter of God at mass. I remember being with her in the house where it is believed that St. John and the Blessed Mother lived in Ephesus. The heart of the place seemed to clear out for us, and God was so present. I saw her struck by wonder at moments like that. I saw a window into her deep and rich interior life. And she loved John Paul and Mother Teresa and St. Francis of Assisi. And we had a particular fun love for St. Clare based on one of our adventures together in Assisi one year.

I remember sitting at a table more than once with her and young priests, and she had such a look of joy on her face. She was so grateful for young men who answered the call to the priesthood in love and obedience to God. And she believed we had a responsibility to help and encourage them. She also felt very strongly that they should all get to go to Rome, and she and Jim arranged for a number to go there on pilgrimages.

I was over at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception earlier today. Its one of the many places in the world where I think of Kate. I realized today that it was one of the last places I saw her out and about  at Justice Scalias funeral. I thought of that day and what a powerful witness it was to the world about Christian fatherhood and the priesthood. I thought about how much Kate valued those things.

Kate used to tease me about the time I was called to Rome to receive a message for all the women in the world  thats what the invitation said  from Pope Benedict. It said in part:

And now it is to you that we address ourselves, women of all statesgirls, wives, mothers and widows, to you also, consecrated virgins and women living aloneyou constitute half of the immense human family. As you know, the Church is proud to have glorified and liberated woman, and in the course of the centuries, in diversity of characters, to have brought into relief her basic equality with man. But the hour is coming, in fact has come, when the vocation of woman is being achieved in its fullness, the hour in which woman acquires in the world an influence, an effect and a power never hitherto achieved. That is why, at this moment when the human race is under-going so deep a transformation, women impregnated with the spirit of the Gospel can do so much to aid mankind in not falling. . . . Women, you do know how to make truth sweet, tender and accessible. Women of the entire universe, whether Christian or non-believing, you to whom life is entrusted at this grave moment in history, it is for you to save the peace of the world.

She would tease me that I never talked enough about it around her  when I was asked by the pope to repeat it to all the women of the world. I, of course, didnt have to. She was showing us, in so many ways more powerful than talking, how to save the peace of the world, by the way she lived.

I know some of you were blessed to know Kate. For those of you who didnt, I keep expecting her to walk in the room so I can introduce her. But I know our Redeemer lives, and shes been called to the greater glory that she helped so many of us know and love. Im so happy that there is a program and a series in her name now at the Ethics and Public Policy Center. I also am fairly certain that anyone looking to be a wise and prudent and clever and generous Catholic witness in the world  and maybe especially in this town  has an intercessor among the cloud of witnesses in heaven in Kate OBeirne.

And about whats going on in the Church today, I know shed say: pray. Of course, she would be on the phone advising. She would be respectful but also direct. Shed be nudging us all through her commentary. But most importantly, shed be imploring us to keep our eyes on Christ. Theres a homily of St. Paul VI that is in the Office of Readings every year where he insists on proclaiming Christ by name and often. Shed be there. She lived there. And not only by talking about Him, but by radiating Him. She could be a beacon in otherwise typical Washington rooms, caring for the least noticed, and making us all better for her presence, coming to know the nature of God better by the encounter.

Christ calls us to live differently, to let Christ transform us. This is what she strived to do, even amidst all the human weaknesses and temptations we all have. And through her final hours, God could be seen. She died on Divine Mercy Sunday, and that was no coincidence. Her last message to us seemed to be exactly that: to trust in Divine Mercy more, and live Divine Mercy. She did powerful and pious things such as go to Confession. We must get ourselves there and maybe even more often, too.

For every word you speak commenting on the situation in the Church  or distressing about it  triple the time you spend in prayer. I was at mass at the Basilica at the hour of Kates death, and it was the Sunday after Easter, so there were so many sung Alleluias. Thats what I associate with Kate and her life. Real belief in the Risen Christ, lived out in the world. And this we must do and show the world.

Thank you and God bless you and this conversation tonight  and all conversations about Holy Mother Church.Katy Perry, one of the biggest acts at Sundays all-star One Love Malibu benefit concert  held at the King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas, Calif., to raise money for those affected by last months devastating Woolsey Fire  was determined to go above and beyond for this worthy cause. So during the live Christies auction of a motorcycle ride with the man Im dating that I love and respect and the Malibu OG  aka her on/off boyfriend, Orlando Bloom  Perry hopped onstage to egg on prospective bidders, even throwing in a free lunch. Ill probably book it, she quipped.

Youre holding him in a way that I am not excited about! Youre holding his pecs and his six-pack  and its so glorious! Perry exclaimed in a dramatic, mock-jealous tone, describing the excursion up for bidding. You get to hold on to Orlando for about 45 minutes.  And then, you get to stare into his brown eyes!

One Love Malibu event co-organizer Linda Perry and performer Katy Perry onstage at the King Gillette Ranch. (Photo: Lyndsey Parker)

Eventually a fan named Laura placed a bid for $20,000, to which Perry shouted, Yay! I dont know who you are, but stan for my man! But just a moment later, Perry said, Laura, Im sorry  Im buying it for $50,000. As Perry wordlessly exited the stage, the auctioneer declared, Sold  to the lady in the red leather skirt! And the emcee marveled, That was a boss move.

Perry had an altruistic motive: Earlier in the day, before she performed a short set of three of her most inspirational songs (Roar, By the Grace of God and Firework), she said, Im really here because of this guy, pointing to her keyboardist, Ty Bailie. This guy is my friend, and weve been on tour for the past couple of years, and he lost his house in the fires. But hes got the greatest attitude and perspective in life and hes the coolest guy, and Im really just here for him  and for everyone else that has been affected by this horribleness. But, we have an opportunity to grow together now. I love you so much.

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Other highlights of the star-studded afternoon included Natasha Bedingfields fiery cover of the Prince power ballad Purple Rain; Robin Thicke (who, along with Katy Perry, was the first to sign on for the event) grooving on Michael Jacksons Rock with You and Al Greens Lets Stay Together; Alanis Morissette reuniting with her You Oughta Know drummer, Taylor Hawkins of the Foo Fighters (and changing the line in Ironic to Its meeting the man of my dreams and then meeting his beautiful  husband); Brandi Carlile, described by event organizer Linda Perry as her good luck charm, evoking the holiday spirit with a cover of Joni Mitchells River; and Gwen Stefani recruiting the Strokes Nick Valensi to play guitar on No Doubts Underneath It All and Dont Speak.

Among the other performers and presenters were Joe Walsh, Rick Springfield, Macy Gray, Best Coast, Rita Ora, Rita Wilson, Dorothy, Pete Molinari, Angel Haze, Demi Moore, Dick Van Dyke, Nikki Reed, and Brandon Boyd, Mike Einziger, and Ben Kenney of Incubus.

Proceeds from One Love Malibu (which was organized in four days by Linda Perry and Kerry Browns artist empowerment company, We Are Hear, with everyone volunteering their talent and time) will go to the Malibu Foundation, a nonprofit created to support the communitys effort to rebuild in areas of Southern California affected by the Woolsey Fire. According to We Are Hears press release, the funds raised will go to those most in need: the uninsured, people living paycheck-to-paycheck, and animal refuge and care. Further donations can be made here.

Read more from Yahoo Entertainment:BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq's Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) said on Monday it had nominated current premier Nechirvan Barzani to succeed his uncle Masoud Barzani as president of Iraqi Kurdistan, and Masoud Barzani's son Masrour as premier of the regional government. With 45 of 111 seats, the KDP is the biggest party in the Kurdish assembly after September's regional election but 11 shy of an outright majority, and will have to govern in coalition. Masrour Barzani is currently Iraqi Kurdistan's security chief. Both Masrour and Nechirvan have occupied senior roles within the KRG throughout the last decade. Veteran Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, still the head of the KDP, stepped down after 12 years as regional president in November 2017, less than a month after helming a referendum on Kurdish independence that backfired and triggered a crisis for Iraq's Kurds. The post has remained vacant ever since. The president's powers were divided between the prime minister, parliament and the judiciary in a makeshift arrangement, leaving the future of the presidency uncertain. The semi-autonomous region does not have a formal constitution, having failed to ratify it in parliament since it was drafted in 2009. Any future power-sharing arrangement would require a rethinking of presidential powers, which would need to be ratified by parliament. "We still don't know what the presidency will look like. Will it become a ceremonial post filled by parliament? " said Kamal Chomani, a Kurdish political analyst and non-resident fellow at the Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy. "In any case, Nechirvan will be weaker than Masrour but will stay powerful enough to control the foreign relations of the KRI. It all depends on how the presidential law will be amended," he said. Relations with the previous Iraqi administration of prime minister Haider al-Abadi were strained by the referendum. But with a new Iraqi government in place, led by Adel Abdul-Mahdi, Erbil and Baghdad have in recent weeks signaled a willingness to work together. (Reporting by Raya Jalabi in Baghdad and Ahmed Aboulenein in Cairo; Editing by Kevin Liffey, Richard Balmforth)BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - The Kremlin hopes that U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin can meet and hold talks before a G20 summit in Japan in June next year, a Kremlin aide said on Saturday. Trump canceled a planned meeting with Putin at the G20 summit in Argentina this weekend citing unease over Russia's Nov. 25 seizure of three Ukrainian navy ships and their crews. Trump and Putin instead had a very brief meeting when they bumped into each other on the sidelines of the summit in Buenos Aires, but did not hold proper talks. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters he hoped it would be possible for the two leaders to meet properly before too long. "Of course a new meeting is possible," said Ushakov. "Now we need to again have talks about preparing such a meeting." When asked where that meeting might happen, Ushakov cited a G20 summit in Osaka Japan in June next year as one option. "But it seems to me that it's very important for us and for them to find a way of meeting before then," said Ushakov. (Reporting by Vladimir Soldatkin; Editing by Andrew Osborn)SALT LAKE CITY (AP)  The Latest on the killing of a Utah woman in front of her children (all times local):

8:30 p.m.

The family of a Utah woman who authorities say was killed by her boyfriend's ex-wife while decorating a Christmas tree is warning about the devastating consequences of domestic violence that go beyond two people.

Police say 26-year-old Lisa Vilate Williams was making homemade ornaments with her boyfriend's twin 3-year-olds when 32-year-old Chelsea Watrous Cook burst in and shot her to death on Sunday.

Cook was arrested on suspicion of aggravated murder after her ex-husband took the gun away and pinned her to the wall until police arrived, authorities said.

Williams' sister and mother told The Associated Press that the slaying came after Cook bullied Williams online and harassed her for months.

Court records show Cook had been charged with domestic violence the month before the slaying.

A lawyer for Cook in that case did not return messages seeking comment, and family members declined to comment.By Mathieu Rosemain, Gwenaelle Barzic and Michel Rose PARIS (Reuters) - French President Emmanuel Macron will urge a visiting group of top Silicon Valley venture capitalists this week to invest in the nation's start-ups while calling on them not to "steal" the best creations, four sources told Reuters. The discreet event, not mentioned in Macron's official schedule, comes at a tough time for the French leader after rioters looted and ransacked boutiques and businesses in central Paris, chaotic images beamed around the world. Executives from some of the biggest names in U.S. tech funding, including Andreessen Horowitz, Sequoia Capital and General Atlantic, are among the 40 expected in Paris on Wednesday and Thursday for a tour of the French startup scene. The two-day roadshow includes presentations from what sources called tech 'superstars' already investing in France as well as visits to hubs such as the Station F tech incubator in eastern Paris. But instead of simply urging them to invest in France, Macron, who is scheduled to host the investors at the Elysee palace on Thursday evening, will also tell the U.S. funds to help French businesses to flourish rather than pushing the best French entrepreneurs to move to the United States. "Today, many French companies raise money in the U.S., and the usual reflex of U.S venture capitalists is to tell them: 'come to the United States then'," a source at Macron's office told Reuters. "We will tell them: it's an ecosystem, your best interest is to do like in Britain and Israel: invest here and don't move everything (to the U.S.)," the source said. The event was scheduled before the nationwide protests that turned the French capital into a battle zone and the format of Macron's appearance has yet to be finalised, sources said. With his authority challenged by the "yellow vest" protesters, who sprawled anti-capitalist slogans on banks and luxury boutiques on Saturday, Macron has his work cut out to counter the damage done to France's image. BREXIT BENEFIT The French tech scene has seen a boom in recent years, helped by Macron's efforts to turn France into a "startup nation", as a new generation of tech-savvy entrepreneurs less interested in government careers tap into the large pool of engineers that France's top universities produce every year. Macron aides say France's tech sector is poised to take advantage of Britain's planned exit from the EU to overtake its major European rival. "We think the French ecosystem will outgrow the one in England in the coming years," is one of the messages the U.S. investors will hear, the Elysee source said. Goldman Sachs and private equity fund KKR are also among the attendees. But French companies say the most promising startups need access to bigger funding rounds if they are to stay. Investments are not large enough to create "unicorns" worth more than $1 billion. So far this year, only two French firms have closed investment rounds of more than 100 million euros. Instead, successful French startups get snapped up by U.S. rivals, with social mapping firm Zenly's acquisition by SnapChat last year particularly riling the French tech scene. Investors on the two-day visit will tour Station F, a startup campus funded by telecoms billionaire Xavier Niel. They will meet entrepreneurs such as David Gurle, boss of U.S. encrypted messaging service Symphony, who moved its research center to a technology park in southeastern France. Among other U.S. tech figures who have chosen to relocate to France and who will make pitches are Tony Fadell, a developer of Apple's iPhone, and Ian Rogers, a former executive at its media player iTunes, now chief digital officer of luxury group LVMH. (Writing by Mathieu Rosemain; Editing by Keith Weir)Bacon and eggs could find themselves culled from popular phrases (Picture: PA)

Phrases featuring meat such as bring home the bacon and grab the bull by the horns will die out as people try to avoid offending vegans, a university researcher has said.

Dr Shareena Hamzah, a researcher at Swansea University, said idioms such as let the cat out of the bag and dont put all your eggs in one basket will eventually fade away as awareness of veganism grows.

She predicts they will fall out of usage as healthy eating and awareness of animal cruelty becomes more widespread.

It could mean that animal-free alternatives are used to complete the phrases in the future, such as feeding a fed horse instead of flogging a dead horse.

Writing on The Conversation academic website, Dr Hamzah said: If veganism forces us to confront the realities of foods origins, then this increased awareness will undoubtedly be reflected in our language and literature.

The increased awareness of vegan issues will filter through consciousness to produce new modes of expression.

She added: The image of killing two birds with one stone is, if anything, made more powerful by the animal-friendly alternative of feeding two birds with one scone.

MORE: Teens and children had 45,000 operations to remove teeth last year

MORE: Theresa Mays Brexit plan is a deal in name only, says latest minister to quit

Following guidance from Peta, Dr Hamzah suggested dumping taking the bull by the horns and replacing it with taking the flower by the thorns.

In a similar vein, more than one way to skin a cat could become more than one way to peel a potato.

On its website, Peta said: While these phrases may seem harmless, they carry meaning and can send mixed signals to students about the relationship between humans and animals and can normalise abuse.

Teaching students to use animal-friendly language can cultivate positive relationships between all beings.

Watch the latest videos from Yahoo UKAndres Manuel Lopez Obrador, friend of Jeremy Corbyn and veteran Left winger, will be sworn in as Mexico's president on Saturday - REUTERS

It has been the strangest of courtships, between the ultimate unlikely couple.

On one side sits Donald Trump, the bombastic and erratic America First nationalist who seized the White House from the gilded realm of Trump Tower.

On the other Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, a veteran Left-winger who started his political career sleeping on the floor of mud huts in impoverished rural Mexico, before rising to challenge big oil companies and fight for a global compact of social justice.

They have exchanged messages of flattery  Mr Trump tweeting last month: Great call, we will work well together!

Mr Lopez Obrador, who on Saturday will be inaugurated as president of Mexico, returned the compliment. He sought, he wrote, to reach a friendly understanding and mutual respect with you, with your people and with the great nation that you represent.

The letter ended: I send you a warm hug.

Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, voting in July with his son Jesus Ernesto

Its almost a bromance, said Laura Carlsen, the Mexico City-based director of the Americas programme at the Center for International Policy, a think tank.

Which is kind of disgusting for most Mexicans.

Even more surreal is the fact that Mr Lopez Obrador has managed to get the presidents of Venezuela, Cuba, and Bolivia into the same room as Mike Pence, the US vice president, and Ivanka Trump. One can only imagine the diplomatic dances being done at this very minute to avoid, at all costs, Mr Pence being cornered at the taco table by Nicolas Maduro.

Also there will be Jeremy Corbyn, making his debut as leader of the opposition at a presidential inauguration. The two men have a friendship dating back over a decade  my eternal friend, Mr Lopez Obrador called him, in a video on Twitter posted on Friday, as the pair spent inauguration eve together at the Mexican politicians ranch in the southern state of Chiapas.

Were on our way to Mexico City, he captioned the video, celebrating their reunion.

While his predecessor, Enrique Pena Nieto, chose to mark his inauguration with an inspection of a military parade and a private dinner at the Chapultepec castle, Mr Lopez Obrador has nodded to his activist roots.

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He is staging a day-long celebration in the Zocalo, a giant plaza in the centre of Mexico City, which was the heart of the Aztec city on which the modern capital sits. Indigenous people are to stage a ceremony, officially presenting him with a baton of power. Musicians from across the country have been invited. The largest plaza in Latin America, with capacity for 100,000 people, is expected to be packed.

Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's supporters fill the Zocalo as election results come in, on July 1

It will be a poignant moment for the 65-year-old, who was mayor of the city from 2000-2005.

In his second run at the presidency, in 2006, he staged weeks of protests in the Zocalo against what he and his supporters saw as a stolen election. On the night of his election, in July, he was once again in the Zocalo, addressing the adoring thousands.

Yet once the music has stopped, the party is firmly over and the real work begins.

And Mr Lopez Obrador, president-in-waiting for decades, finally getting his chance, is determined to make a dramatic debut. On Saturday, for the first time, the presidential residence, Los Pinos, is flinging its gates open to the public  Mr Lopez Obrador campaigned on a promise to move out of the giant luxury bunker and live a quieter life. He is moving the office to the National Palace instead, and seems likely to either sleep there or else take a small flat nearby.

A masked woman holds up a sign that reads in Spanish "The assassins are in Los Pinos," referring to the presidential residence, during a march demanding the resignation of Mexico's President Enrique Pena Nieto

He will then start work on his agenda. One of the first items is to end the presidential pension, and put a stop to the full-salary payments currently made to his six living predecessors. Another is to sell or rent out the presidential jet  both policies raising eyebrows for their brazenly populist sway.

Next will come plans to legalise marijuana, increase pensions for the elderly, and scrap the $13.3 billion redevelopment of the capitals airport  even though it is well underway.

He has definitely been elected to shake things up, said Eric Farnsworth, vice president of the Americas Society. And he has been very explicit that, right from the beginning, he is going to prioritise helping Mexicos poorest.

He has promised $5 billion in scholarships and youth training programmes, in a bid to give young people a future and take away the cartels cannon fodder  making good on his campaign promise: Becarios si, sicarios no  yes to scholarships, no to hitmen.

Mexico's streets have, in some states, been militarised since 2006

He will also launch his National Guard  the administrations controversial plan for a combined military-federal police force  in a bid to end the historic levels of violence plaguing the country. Critics have panned the idea, saying it is no different from the failed strategies of Felipe Calderon, who declared war on the drug gangs in 2006, and then Mr Pena Nieto, whose Gendarmerie did nothing to stem the bloodletting.

Furthermore, they see it as a betrayal of his campaign promise to focus on the societal causes of cartel violence, rather than resorting to military bombardment.

John Ackerman, a columnist and law professor at Mexicos largest university, UNAM, strongly disagrees.

The creation of the National Guard is absolutely the demilitarisation of Mexico, he said. The Guard will be made of mainly federal police, with some members of the military police. Its not keeping the troops on the streets at all.

Mr Ackerman laughed when asked if he was optimistic for Mexicos future. His wife, Irma Sandoval, will become director of the civil service secretariat  in essence, Mr Lopez Obradors corruption tsar  and Mr Ackerman himself is a longtime friend of the new president, serving as an unofficial advisor.

Im hardly independent, he said. But yes. This is the change Mexico needs. Enrique Pena Nieto has been a disgrace.

Enrique Pena Nieto, the deeply unpopular outgoing Mexican president

Mr Ackerman, born in the US, denied Mr Lopez Obrador was a populist, saying instead he was a progressive, democratic, socially-concerned liberal.

And he was excited to see how his wily friend dealt with Mr Trump.

The US-Mexican relationship could not be more important. US goods and services trade with Mexico totalled an estimated $615.9 billion last year. The North American Free Trade Agreement, Nafta, set the tone for trade deals  its survival looked precarious when Mr Trump came to power, but just this weekend he signed its replacement, alongside his Mexican and Canadian counterparts.

Since 9/11 cooperation on security has dramatically increased, and the 2007 Merida Initiative encouraged the two countries to work together to combat drug trafficking. The current trial in New York of Joaquin El Chapo Guzman, accused of leading the worlds biggest drug dealer, is a vivid example.

Mr Trumps sending of such a high-powered delegation to Mr Lopez Obradors inauguration  in addition to his vice president and daughter he has sent two of his Cabinet ministers and a slew of state governors and mayors - is a clear sign of how seriously he takes the relationship, despite having labelled the countrys population rapists.

Ivanka Trump and Mike Pence are leading the US delegation to the inauguration of "Amlo"

But the problems will come thick and fast.

The migrant caravan  around 5,000 people are currently camped out in increasingly unsanitary conditions in Tijuana, waiting to apply for asylum in the US, tear gassed by US border police  will dominate their early discussions.

Mike Pompeo, the US secretary of state, is leaving the G20 in Buenos Aires early, and flying up to Mexico to hold talks with his Mexican counterpart, Marcelo Ebrard, on Sunday.

On Monday the US homeland security secretary, Kirstjen Nielsen  who on Friday made a highly unusual plea for police to be sent to reinforce the US-Mexico border  will meet with more members of Mr Lopez Obradors cabinet.

The two countries are also in talks about a temporary solution to the current catch and release at the border, whereby migrants crossing illegally are detained then released for their court hearing. Mr Trump despises it, and Mr Lopez Obrador may offer him a Remain in Mexico solution, whereby they wait in Mexico while their asylum claims are processed. Its not yet clear what concession Mr Lopez Obrador is seeking in return for the huge favour.

Indeed, Mr Lopez Obrador is treading a fine line between appeasing Mr Trump and staying faithful to his Mexican voters, who hold the US leader in the lowest esteem of any country in the world.

But his supporters dont seem worried by this.

Hes a master strategist, said Mr Ackerman. Trump thinks he is the best, with The Art of the Deal and whatever.

But Trump plays poker. Lopez Obrador plays chess.Mexico City (AFP) - Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador started his six-year term Monday with something the country had not seen in years: a presidential press conference.

The anti-establishment leftist known as AMLO assumed the presidency on Saturday, promising to bring "deep and radical" change to a country fed up with corruption and crime.

He got down to business on Monday with a 6:00 am meeting with his public-security team, followed by a 7:00 am press conference that he says will now be a daily ritual.

It was a dramatic departure from the style of his predecessor, Enrique Pena Nieto, who read out scripted statements to the press on a semi-regular basis but almost never took questions from journalists.

"We are going to guarantee the right to information," Lopez Obrador, 65, told a room packed with reporters.

"We're at your disposal to answer your questions. There are no limits, no censorship.... The media are instruments to keep the people informed."

The nearly hour-long press conference touched on a wide range of issues.

Lopez Obrador said the early-morning meeting with his public-security team would also be a daily ritual, calling the record-breaking violence fueled by Mexico's drug cartels "the issue that most worries Mexicans."

He also announced the launch of a commission to investigate the disappearance of 43 students in southern Mexico in 2014, a murky, unsolved case that was one of the biggest stains on the previous administration.

He repeated his statement that he has a "respectful" relationship with US President Donald Trump while calling for a deal in which the United States would invest in economic development in Mexico and Central America to stop the flow of migrants across the US-Mexican border.

Trump for his part is pressuring Mexico for a deal to keep asylum-seeking migrants on its side of the border while their claims are processed, a possible source of tension between the two leaders.

Lopez Obrador also touched on his controversial decision to cancel a new $13-billion airport for Mexico City that was one-third complete, saying bonds from the project would be repaid.

He said he would give further details in Tuesday's press conference after meeting with his finance minister, Carlos Urzua, on Monday afternoon.Sully, the Labrador Retriever, by former President George H.W. Bushs casket. Source: Twitter/Jim McGrath

A heartbreaking photo shows former US President George HW Bushs dog lying next to his casket, after the death of the 94-year-old on Friday.

The labrador retriever named Sully, joined former President Bush in June. He came from Americas VetDogs, a not for profit organisation that provides canines to veterans, local outlet Fox8 reported.

Former President Bush tweeted a photograph of Sully, former President Bill Clinton and himself on June 25.

A great joy to welcome home the newest member of our family, Sully, a beautiful  and beautifully trained- lab, he tweeted.

Could not be more grateful, especially for their commitment to our veterans.

The heartwarming image of Sully by the casket was tweeted by Jim McGrath, former President Bushs spokesman, on Sunday night.

Former Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton with Sully. Source: Twitter/GeorgeHWBush

Mission complete, Mr McGrath wrote about the touching image of Sully by the casket, which was draped in an American flag.

The photograph has been retweeted over 13,000 times.Rabat (AFP) - Morocco's King Mohammed VI on Monday visited Gabon's President Ali Bongo at a military hospital in Rabat where the Gabonese leader is recovering from an illness, an official source said.

During the visit, the king said he was pleased about the state of Bongo's health which he said was improving by the day, according to the Moroccan source.

Bongo thanked the king for "his warm welcome and attention" since the president's arrival in the Moroccan capital, the royal palace said.

The palace issued a handout picture of King Mohammed sitting next to Bongo who was smiling at him and dressed in a turban and djellaba robe.

The publication of the photo and the subsequent release of a video of the encounter come after persistent rumours over the health of the Gabonese president for more than a month.

Bongo was flown to Morocco on Thursday from Saudi Arabia where he had been in hospital since October 24 after falling ill at an economic forum.

After an extended period of silence, the Gabonese presidency eventually admitted last month that Bongo was "seriously ill" and had undergone surgery, but said he was on the mend.

His recovery would take weeks, or even days, a source in the presidency said last week.

A lack of official news -- along with memories of the secrecy-shrouded death of Bongo's father Omar Bongo in 2009 after decades at the helm -- had sparked numerous rumours, including speculation he was incapacitated or even dead.

The Bongo family has governed Gabon for five decades.

Ali Bongo was elected head of state after his father's death.

He was narrowly re-elected in 2016 after beating opposition challenger Jean Ping by a few thousand votes following a presidential poll marred by deadly violence and allegations of fraud.Rabat (AFP) - A UN envoy is set to host an "initial round-table" in Geneva this week between Morocco and the Polisario Front in a bid to kick-start dialogue on the disputed Western Sahara region.

"It is time to open a new chapter in the political process", said UN envoy Horst Koehler in an October invitation letter.

Six years after direct talks broke down, the meeting is expected to take place on Wednesday and Thursday, with neighbouring Algeria and Mauritania also attending.

A former Spanish colony, phosphate-rich Western Sahara sits on the western edge of the vast eponymous desert, stretching around 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) along the fish-abundant Atlantic coastline.

When Spain withdrew from the North African territory in 1975, Rabat sent thousands of people across the border and claimed it was an integral part of Morocco.

The following year the Polisario Front declared Western Sahara the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), with support from Algeria and Libya, and demanded a referendum on self-determination to resolve the dispute.

But as the stalemate continued, Morocco built razor-wire-topped concentric sand walls in the desert that still ring 80 percent of the territory it controls.

A 1991 ceasefire saw the UN deploy a peacekeeping mission which has perpetuated the line of control, but the international community has long intended a referendum be held to decide the territory's status.

Rabat currently rejects any vote in which independence is an option, arguing that only granting autonomy is on the table and that this is necessary for regional security.

- Living in limbo -

Awaiting a settlement, between 100,000 and 200,000 refugees live precariously in camps in western Algeria, near the city of Tindouf.

The last round of direct talks were launched by the UN in 2007 but got bogged down 2012, as the opposing sides proved unable to compromise over the territory's status and the proposed referendum.

Story continues

Leading the diplomatic efforts since 2017, Koehler -- a former president of Germany -- has already met the key protagonists several times, albeit separately.

His efforts have paved the way for the Polisario, Morocco, Algeria and Mauritania to sit at the same table, even if the format has not been unanimously agreed.

Algeria wants to participate only as an "observer country", but Rabat considers it a "stakeholder" in the discussions, since Algiers is the Polisario's main backer.

A UN briefing note says the Geneva meeting represents "a first step... with the aim of reaching a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution which will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara".

But the itinerary remains vague, outlining the delegations will take "stock of recent developments, address regional issues, and discuss the next steps in the political process on Western Sahara".

According to one diplomatic source, the plan is not to put too much pressure on this first meeting.

Instead, it should be considered more of a "warming up" exercise aimed at "breaking the ice", especially given still-poor relations between Rabat and Algiers.

The situation remains "generally calm" along the line of control, despite tensions that resurfaced in early 2018, according to a UN report.

For the Polisario, a recent reduction in the UN peacekeepers' mandate from 12 months to six months is part of a "dynamic" created by Koehler's appointment.

The UN Security Council adopted a US-drafted resolution in October to renew the peacekeeping mission and throw its weight behind the planned talks.

But ahead of the Geneva meeting, all sides are sticking to their positions, even as they signal their goodwill.

While supporting a "durable" political solution marked by a "spirit of compromise", King Mohammed VI said in a recent speech that Morocco will not yield on its "territorial integrity", including control over Western Sahara.

Key Polisario official Mhamed Khadad told AFP ahead of attending the Geneva talks "everything can be negotiated except the inalienable and imprescriptible right of our people to self-determination."

Reflecting its status as the Polisario's main supporter, Algeria likewise speaks of this "inalienable and imprescriptible" right.

In a recent official statement, Algiers said it would head to Geneva favouring "frank and fair" direct negotiations between the Polisario and Morocco aimed at building a definitive solution.



Lord of the Rings filmmaker Peter Jackson says hes still keen to direct an episode of Doctor Who, and has jokingly offered to let the show shoot on the set of his new film Mortal Engines to help the BBC budget.

Jackson is a big fan of the Beebs long-running sci-fi show and, while hes yet to watch the latest series with Jodie Whittaker, he says hes just waiting for the BBC to invite him to collaborate on the series.

I havent actually seen the new Doctor yet, Jackson, producer and screenwriter on Mortal Engines (in cinemas 8 December), tells Yahoo Movies UK.

I havent had to chance because Ive been so busy on these films. I just have to get invited, and asked, and if we can figure it out, I would love to do a Doctor Who.

Jackson cast former Doctor Who star Sylvester McCoy in The Hobbit (BBC)

Former Doctor Who showrunner Steven Moffat, who left the series in 2017, says he met with Jackson face to face about directing an episode. He accepts that theres no money and that theres no time, Moffat told Empire (via Den of Geek), and it would have to be when hes available I think it will probably happen at some point.

Jacksons latest film, based on the Philip Reeve books of the same name, is set in a far-flung future Earth, where cities like London have become huge mobilised battle stations. The world of Mortal Engines would make a great setting for an episode of Doctor Who, and Fran Walsh  Jacksons wife and co-screenwriter on the film  says the BBC could make it a crossover episode.





[The Doctor] could end up on a giant moving city, Walsh suggests.

Weve got a few spare giant moving cities we could throw into the mix, Jackson adds with a wry smile.

We could offer that up to help the BBC budget!

The New Zealand filmmaker owns two Daleks, and made a cameo appearance in Peter Davisons The Five(ish) Doctors Reboot, a spoof episode starring Sylvester McCoy, Colin Baker, Paul McGann, and other Who alumni, that was made for the shows 50th anniversary year.





In 2015 he shared a video sketch (above) from his own home featuring the-then current Doctor Peter Capaldi, who delivers a contract from Steven Moffat to direct an episode.

Story continues

Maybe now, this time, it might happen for real?

Mortal Engines is in cinemas nationwide from 8 December. Watch our BUILD interview with the cast below.

Read more

How Peter Jacksons astonishing WW1 doc was made

Whittaker channels Tom Baker in New Year special

Rupert Grint wanted to quit Harry Potter



What a catalogue of rogues  and what a tantalizing pile of clues. Surely we will soon know where all this leads

The rogues gallery exposed in Robert Muellers court filings last week make the Watergate burglars look positively classy.

Even veteran lawyers who were involved in the investigations of Richard Nixon say theyve never seen this level of chicanery. Most importantly, last weeks events showed that Special Counsel Mueller is getting closer to exposing the scope and depth of it all. His most recent filings make clear that considerable evidence touches the president himself.

Donald Trump outside the White House. Last week came the astounding revelation that Paul Manafort was acting as a double agent inside Robert Muellers office. Photograph: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters

The disclosures from Michael Cohen, the former Trump fixer who is now a cooperating witness, drew the connection tighter. In his guilty plea to an additional charge of lying to Congress, Cohen revealed, and Trump confirmed, that the Trump Organization was pursuing a luxury skyscraper deal in Moscow while Donald Trump, identified as Individual 1 in the latest court filings, was sewing up the Republican party presidential nomination.

As a candidate, Trump repeatedly reassured voters that he had no business dealings in Russia. But as he uttered those lies, he knew Cohen was planning to sell Russian kleptocrats $250m units in a future Trump Tower Moscow by luring Putin into the project with a free $50m spread. This was all unfolding as emails from Democratic officials, hacked by the Russians, disrupted the Democratic convention and the Republican party was making its party platform much kinder to Russia.

Trump tried to dismiss this Moscow real estate bombshell, saying it was fine for him to pursue his business affairs while running for president, because if he lost, he expected to return to the throne of the Trump Organization. Could this help Mueller close the circle of collusion between Trump and Russia?

Cohen had previously connected President Trump to payoffs made to Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal, which may violate election law. But the additional guilty plea last week goes to the heart of Muellers investigation into Russian meddling and possible links to Donald Trump.

Story continues

Also last week came the astounding revelation that Paul Manafort was acting as a double agent inside Muellers office. After Manafort was convicted on multiple counts of bank and tax fraud related to the millions he was paid by Ukrainian clients, he cut a deal with Mueller before his second trial, agreeing to plead guilty and to cooperate with the special counsel. Instead of cooperating, turncoat Manafort was spying and tipping off the presidents lawyers about the prosecutions areas of interest.

Clownish though some of them seem, these men may hold some keys to Muellers investigation

Manaforts deal then went where it belonged, in the trash. Big jail time should be in store for him, but it is more than likely that he will receive a presidential pardon for being such a standup guy. I wouldnt take it off the table, President Trump said in an Oval Office interview with the New York Post. Why would I take it off the table? Mafia dons often dangle protection to silence snitches. But this isnt the mafia, its the White House.

Its hard to imagine anything lower than what Manafort did. But also trotting on stage last week were the conspiracy-loving tag team of Roger Stone and Jerome Corsi. In a draft court filing related to a collapsed plea deal with Corsi, 72, Mueller also revealed that in email exchanges, Stone told Corsi to get hold of hacked emails from WikiLeaks and that the pair discussed optimum times to release them in order to damage Clintons candidacy. Stone and Corsi have ties to Alex Joness ultra-right conspiracy site, Infowars, and Corsi was the man behind the false birther campaign against Barack Obama and Swift Boat Veterans for Truth, a rightwing group that tried to besmirch John Kerrys military record in his 2004 bid to become president. Stone is a trickster from way back (he even has a Nixon tattoo on his back). Stone and Corsi have both denied contacts with WikiLeaks.

Clownish though some of them seem, these men may hold some keys to Muellers investigation. And we have yet to hear from Michael Flynn, the Trump foreign policy adviser and short-lived national security adviser, who has also pleaded guilty in the Mueller investigation and whose role in this muck is soon to be revealed in court. Though last weeks documents did not deal with the suspect meeting in Trump Tower during the campaign with a Russian lawyer claiming to have dirt on Clinton. Manafort, Jared Kushner, and Donald Trump Jr, were there and the meeting remains a subject of interest to Mueller.

What a tantalizing pile of clues. Surely, we will soon know where they lead.

During the Nixon years, a famous journalist, Jimmy Breslin, wrote two books. One was a novel about the mafia called The Gang That Couldnt Shoot Straight, that I thought about as I watched Manafort et al trot across the television screen last week. He also wrote a book after Nixon resigned about the politicians who helped restore honesty and dignity to Washington. It was called How the Good Guys Finally Won. That one deserves a sequel.Michael Flynn, Paul Manafort and Robert Mueller. (Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: AP (3), Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Special counsel Robert Muellers prosecutors have told defense lawyers in recent weeks that they are tying up loose ends in their investigation, providing the clearest clues yet that the long-running probe into Russias interference in the 2016 election may be coming to its climax, potentially in the next few weeks, according to multiple sources close to the matter.

The new information about the state of Muellers investigation comes during a pivotal week when the special counsels prosecutors are planning to file memos about three of their most high profile defendants  former Trump national security adviser Michael Flynn, former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort and former Trump personal lawyer Michael Cohen.

A Flynn sentencing memo is due Tuesday, and memos about Manafort and Cohen are slated for Friday. All three documents are expected to yield significant new details on what cooperation the three of them provided to the Russia investigation.

There has been much speculation that Mueller might file his memo in Manaforts case under seal in order to prevent public disclosure of the additional crimes his office believes Manafort committed when he allegedly lied to prosecutors and broke a plea deal after agreeing to cooperate.

But Peter Carr, spokesman for the special counsel, confirmed to Yahoo News on Monday that the Manafort memo will be public, although he added there could be some portions that are redacted or filed as a sealed addendum. The Manafort memo has been requested by the federal judge in his case so that prosecutors could, for the first time, spell out what matters they believe Manafort has lied to them about.

The fact that Mueller is planning a public filing about Manafort suggests he may no longer feel the need to withhold information about his case in order to bring additional indictments against others. That would be consistent with messages his prosecutors have given defense lawyers in recent weeks indicating that they are in the endgame of their investigation.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Trump at the start of the G-20 summit in Argentina. (Photo: Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP)

Theyve been telling people they are tying up loose ends and trying to conclude, said one source familiar with the communications between Muellers office and defense lawyers who represent key witnesses in the case.

That message was reinforced to some degree Monday when Muellers office talked to congressional investigators as part of an ongoing discussion about whether new subpoenas for testimony by House and Senate committees might interfere with Muellers investigation.

The response, which surprised one investigator, was that it would not, at least in matters relating to alleged obstruction by the White House in the Russia investigation itself. What we were told is that the investigation has reached a mature enough stage that theyve basically talked to everybody they want to talk to, said a knowledgeable source who asked not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the matter.

Muellers office declined any public comment when asked to confirm that account, leaving open the possibility that there still could be a few witnesses yet to be questioned. Another source indicated that Muellers office is still asking congressional investigators to stay away from some other witnesses. But if true, the response on Monday could also be an indication that the special counsel does not plan to press for a face-to-face interview with President Trump, who submitted written responses to Muellers team in mid-November on matters relating to the Russia probe. The presidents lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, did not respond to a request for comment.

By all accounts, last weeks guilty plea by former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen was one of Muellers more significant documents. It revealed that during the 2016 presidential campaign, Cohen was in direct discussion with an assistant to Dmitri Peskov, the press secretary for Russian President Vladimir Putin, about securing financing and land for the construction of a Trump Tower in Moscow. Cohen told Muellers prosecutors that he briefed Trump about the plans on multiple occasions and that discussions about the Moscow skyscraper continued until June 2016  six months after he previously had told Congress he pulled the plug on the project.

Cohen is due to be sentenced in federal court in New York next week. While Mueller has not yet filed a sentencing memo in that case, Cohens lawyers have asked that he avoid jail entirely, and Muellers sentencing memo is due Friday. The president, meanwhile, offered his own suggestion  that his former lawyer should be jailed and serve a full and complete sentence  in a tweetstorm early Monday.

The only other publicly known matter Mueller is believed to be focused on relates to former Trump adviser Roger Stone and conspiracy theorist Jerome Corsi  both of whom have been aggressively investigated to determine if they had advance communications with WikiLeaks or associates of the group about its plans for the release of stolen emails of Hillary Clinton campaign chairman John Podesta in the final weeks of the 2016 presidential election.

_____

Read more from Yahoo News:

Jerusalem (AFP) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was to hold talks with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels on Monday, a day after police recommended the premier's indictment in a third graft case.

Netanyahu's office said the meeting had been set last week, but provided few other details.

US President Donald Trump's top diplomat was to be in Brussels for a NATO meeting of foreign ministers on Tuesday.

"I will discuss with Mike Pompeo a series of regional developments as well as the steps we are taking together to block the aggression of Iran and its proxies in the north," Netanyahu said before departing, referring to Syria and Lebanon.

"Of course we will also discuss other issues."

They were to meet on Monday evening, with Netanyahu accompanied by the head of Israeli spy agency Mossad, the head of his national security council and his military secretary.

Trump has pledged unwavering support for Israel and has pushed ahead with controversial policies such as moving the US embassy to Jerusalem.

Israel and the United States have also worked closely on a range of issues, particularly related to Iran.

Both have warned of Iran's presence in Syria, which neighbours Israel.

Netanyahu has pledged to stop arch-foe Iran from entrenching itself militarily in Syria and to keep it from transferring advanced weapons to its ally Hezbollah in Lebanon.

There has been increased attention in Israel in recent days over Israeli officials' concerns regarding Iranian activity in Lebanon.

The Israeli premier has also pursued ties with Arab Gulf nations that have no official diplomatic relations with his country and the United States has backed him in those efforts.

Netanyahu's trip comes a day after police recommended indicting him and his wife Sara for bribery and other offences, the third such move against him in recent months.

The attorney general must now decide whether to indict Netanyahu, who rejects the accusations against him in all three cases.Abuja (AFP) - Nigeria's main anti-corruption agency on Monday filed for the arrest of former oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke after a judge approved a request for her to be charged with corruption.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) said in a statement the application for warrant of arrest was a "condition precedent for Diezani's extradition" to face trial.

Alison-Madueke was arrested in Britain in October 2015 in a graft investigation where she was linked to a string of money laundering, bribery and asset recovery cases in Nigeria, Italy and the United States.

She has been on bail in Britain since.

EFCC chairman Ibrahim Magu last month said he wanted Alison-Madueke to be extradited from Britain, but said the process was taking too long.

In the latest agency statement, the EFCC said it would submit details of the case against Alison-Madueke at a court in the capital, Abuja, on Tuesday to back up its application for her arrest.

Meanwhile, the body said a judge had granted permission for Alison-Madueke to be charged for "offences bordering on conspiracy" and illegally "accepting and giving gratifications".

She would face five counts under Nigeria's Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 2000 alongside her associate, former oil boss Jide Omokore, at a hearing set for February 25, it added.

Omokore is a former chairman of the Atlantic Drilling Company.

His company was awarded oil contracts by Alison-Madueke, who served under former president Goodluck Jonathan until 2015 and was the first female head of OPEC.

The pair are alleged "to have accepted and given gifts" on two properties in the upmarket Ikoyi and Banana Island areas of Lagos.

Both apartments were owned by companies linked to the former minister.

Omokore is already involved in another case in which he faces nine charges of "criminal diversion of funds" totalling $1.6 billion, allegedly the proceeds of government oil sales.

His three co-defendants were senior executives at the state-run Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.

EFCC prosecutor Faruk Abdullahi told the court Alison-Madueke had been under investigation for her alleged involvement at the time of her arrest in Britain.A North Korea's guard post in the demilitarized zone is blown up in this picture taken from South Korea's territory - REUTERS

A North Korean soldier fled to South Korea early on Saturday, the military in Seoul said, the first such defection since a number of guard posts were blown up at the border this week.

South Korean soldiers escorted the defector to safety after finding him moving south of the eastern side of the military demarcation line that bisects the Koreas, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement.

"A North Korean soldier was detected crossing the military demarcation line" by South Korean troops using surveillance equipment, the military Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement.

"The soldier is safely in our custody," it said. "Related agencies plan to investigate him regarding the details of how he came to the South."

The Joint Chiefs of Staff said it had not observed any unusual activity from North Korean troops in the area where the defection happened.

It comes as the North and South Korea have pushed to implement a wide-ranging military agreement reached in September to reduce tensions across their border.

South Korean soldiers leave a border guard post at an undisclosed area in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) dividing the South and North Koreas Credit: Getty

South Korea's Defence Ministry said on Friday the Korean militaries completed removing 20 front-line guard posts and land mines from a border area where they plan to start their first-ever joint search for remains of soldiers killed during the 1950-53 Korean War.

The Koreas and the US-led UN. Command recently finished removing firearms and troops from a jointly controlled area at the border village of Panmunjom, and eventually plan to allow tourists to freely move around there.

However, experts downplayed the chances of seeing similar defections.

Martyn Williams, a North Korea analyst, said there was was "still considerable security" along the border.

"It's not easier for anyone to get close to the border so while this soldier might have seen a chance, it's probably still an incredibly risky thing to do," he told The Telegraph.

Last November, a North Korean soldier was critically wounded in the jointly controlled area after he fled to the South amid a hail of bullets fired by his former comrades.

More than 30,000 North Korean civilians have fled their homeland but most flee across the porous frontier with China, and rarely across the inter-Korean border which is fortified with minefields and barbed wire.Singapore (AFP) - Oil prices soared on Monday after Russia and Saudi Arabia renewed a pact to cap output, while the US agreed to halt raising tariffs on Chinese imports, stalling a trade row that many feared could hit demand for the commodity.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday he and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman "have agreed to extend our agreement" to limit production as prices slump on global markets.

An existing deal committing OPEC and non-members to cuts expires this year.

While there was no announcement on how much would be cut and for how long, the pact between the world's two biggest crude exporters was cheered by oil traders, with Brent jumping $2.60 to $62.06 and West Texas Intermediate up $2.42 to $53.35 on Monday.

There was a slight paring of prices after Qatar announced it would be leaving OPEC next year as it looks to concentrate on its gas production, though it would continue to pump crude. The country contributes a fraction of the entire output from the group.

"While we still need to know by how much OPEC will curb its production, Putin's comment does clear a barrier for OPEC in stabilizing prices as Russia has been ambiguous about its stance," Ahn Yea Ha, a commodities analyst at Kiwoom Securities told Bloomberg News.

Both main contracts have plunged by about a third since hitting four-year highs at the start of October, hit by a number of factors including easing demand, high production, softer-than-expected US sanctions on Iran and a global growth slowdown.

Another major reason for the sell-off has been the ongoing trade row between China and the US, which has seen the world's top economies swap tariffs on imports worth hundreds of billions of dollars fuelling fears about the impact globally.

However, Donald Trump and Xi Jinping on Saturday announced a deal that will see the US hold off raising levies on Chinese goods on January 1 and China promise to buy more from the US, while entering a 90-day period of talks to bring an end to the dispute.

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Traders are now looking ahead to a weekend meeting of OPEC and key non-OPEC members in Vienna, where they will make an announcement on their cuts plans.

Most analysts expect a cut of around one million barrels per day, but some say this may not be enough to arrest the decline in prices.

"It's a huge week not only for oil markets but capital markets in general," said Stephen Innes, head of Asia-Pacific trade at OANDA.

"Post-G20 sentiment is a bit more positive than expected but still very much work in progress, so perhaps the most crucial event in December next to (Britain's) Brexit vote could very well be the OPEC summit."The Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario conducted a study of recent university and college graduates that suggests only 25 per cent had the highest ranking for literacy, numeracy and critical-thinking skills. Photo from Getty Images.

When students graduate from college or university, employers expect them to know some basic skills, regardless of their major.

However, according to a recent study, approximately one in four students are falling short.

The Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario conducted a study of recent university and college graduates, which was published on Nov. 23, 2018. The study suggests that a surprising number of graduates did not meet the adequate ranking for literacy, numeracy and critical-thinking skills.

The study was conducted in two trials involving more than 7,500 students at 20 Ontario post-secondary institutions, according to the council. First, the Essential Adult Skills Initiative (EASI) was administered to 4,600 first and final-year students who elected to participate in the project. The EASI trial found only 25 to 30 per cent of grads scored Level 4/5, which is the highest achievable level on the study.

Meanwhile, 25 per cent of final-year students ranked at Level 1 and Level 2, and 45 per cent of students ranked at Level 3, which is considered the minimum standard to perform well in the world at work, according to HEQCOs summary.

To give you an idea of how that compares, at Literacy Level 1, students should be able to read various kinds of text to locate information, such as looking for a specific ingredient on a package label, according to the HEQCO guidelines. They should also be able to find a link on a website that gives a companys contact information and hours, and read a table in the newspaper presenting information. At Level 2, the person should be able to compare two different information sources and make inferences from them, such as determining how to return a damaged product via a company website and the warranty information associated with the product.

To see how you compare, take the sample literacy quiz offered by the OECD (select Demo Test beside your country/language of choice). The numeracy skills look at how individuals process numeric information.

To see what skills are needed, try our short quiz below:The Versace fashion house pulled out all the stops a for its Pre-Fall 2019 fashion show, held Sunday, December 2 in New York. Donatella Versace treated an audience of star guests to a collection revisiting the label's classics with a contemporary, feminine and ultra-glam flavor.

Donatella Versace delved into the Italian fashion house's archives to create her Pre-Fall 2019 collection, which featured a host of prints, vibrant colors and retro-inspired cuts, all sealed with the luxury brand's renowned extravagant style.

A few silhouettes were more subdued, in black or fall-inspired hues, with sensual and glamorous cuts and the odd rock'n'roll touch.

A host of celebrities turned out to the New York show, including Kim Kardashian and Kanye West. There was no shortage of stars on the runway either, with Gigi Hadid, Emily Ratajkowski, Hailey Baldwin, Amber Valetta, Kaia Gerber and Stella Maxwell.WASHINGTON (AP)  Police say an employee was shot during an attempted robbery at a Whole Foods Market in Washington, D.C.

The Metropolitan Police Department says the shooting happened Sunday morning inside the supermarket along a busy shopping strip in northeast Washington.

A police spokeswoman says the male employee who was shot was taken to the hospital in critical condition. No one else was injured.

Police say they are searching for the suspect, who they say fled the scene.

In a statement, Whole Foods, which is headquartered in Austin, Texas, said "thoughts and prayers" were with the wounded employee.A candle decorated with the faces of Syrian children suffering from war is placed next to Pope Francis during the Angelus noon prayer on Sunday 2 December - AP

Pope Francis is "concerned" about what he described as the "serious issue" of homosexuality, saying in an interview published Saturday that being gay was a "fashion" to which the clergy is susceptible.

"The issue of homosexuality is a very serious issue that must be adequately discerned from the beginning with the candidates," the pontiff said with regards to would-be priests.

"In our societies it even seems that homosexuality is fashionable and that mentality, in some way, also influences the life of the church," he says in the book 'The Strength of a Vocation', released in Italy on Saturday.

"This is something I am concerned about, because perhaps at one time it did not receive much attention," he said in the book, a transcript of an interview which will be released in ten languages.

The Roman Catholic Church's position is that homosexual acts are sinful and the pontiff's stance on homosexuality in the clergy is not new.

A decree on training for Roman Catholic priests in 2016 stressed the obligation of sexual abstinence, as well as barring gays and those who support "gay culture" from holy orders.

The barring of people who present homosexual tendencies was first stipulated by the Catholic Church in 2005.

"It can happen that at the time perhaps they didn't exhibit [that tendency], but later on it comes out," Francis said.

"In consecrated and priestly life, there's no room for that kind of affection. Therefore, the Church recommends that people with that kind of ingrained tendency should not be accepted into the ministry or consecrated life.

"The ministry or the consecrated life is not his place," the Argentine added.

Gay clergy were urged to be "impeccably responsible" in a warning over bad behaviour that was notable for its silence on heterosexual clergy who break their vow of celibacy.Mexico City (AFP) - Newly installed President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador launched his "transformation" of Mexico Monday with a return to presidential press conferences and a new commission to investigate the internationally condemned disappearance of 43 students in 2014.

The anti-establishment leftist known as AMLO, who assumed the presidency Saturday, got down to business with a 6:00 am meeting with his public-security team, followed by a 7:00 am press conference -- something his predecessor, Enrique Pena Nieto, habitually avoided.

He then signed a decree creating an investigative commission to unravel the unsolved case of the missing students, a stain on Pena Nieto's legacy.

"I promise you there will be no impunity, not in this terribly sad and painful case, and not in any other," Lopez Obrador said at a ceremony where the students' parents were present.

Mexico is still haunted by the disappearance of the 43 student protesters from the Ayotzinapa teachers' college in the southern state of Guerrero.

They were attacked and then detained by municipal police in the city of Iguala on September 26, 2014.

According to the official investigation, corrupt police then handed them over to hitmen from the Guerreros Unidos drug cartel, who killed them and burned their bodies at a garbage dump.

However, independent investigators found numerous holes in the official story -- including a lack of forensic evidence at the supposed crime scene and indications that many of the suspects were tortured into confessing.

- Trump's 'respect' -

Lopez Obrador's nearly hour-long press conference touched on a wide range of issues. But the biggest news may have been the event itself.

It was a dramatic departure from the style of Pena Nieto, who read out scripted statements to the press on a semi-regular basis but almost never took questions from journalists.

"We are going to guarantee the right to information," Lopez Obrador, 65, told a room packed with reporters.

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"We're at your disposal to answer your questions. There are no limits, no censorship... The media are instruments to keep the people informed."

The former protest leader and Mexico City mayor said both the early-morning press conference and meeting with his public-security team would be daily rituals, calling the record-breaking violence fueled by Mexico's drug cartels "the issue that most worries Mexicans."

He also repeated his statement that he has a "respectful" relationship with US President Donald Trump, and called for a deal in which the United States would invest in economic development in Mexico and Central America to stop the flow of migrants across the US-Mexican border.

Trump for his part is pressuring Mexico for a deal to keep asylum-seeking migrants on its side of the border while their claims are processed, a possible source of tension between the two leaders.

But they have gotten off to a warm start so far -- and Trump again tweeted his congratulations.

Lopez Obrador "had a tremendous political victory with the great support of the Mexican People. We will work well together for many years to come!" he wrote.

- Economic worries -

Lopez Obrador also touched on his controversial decision to cancel a new $13-billion airport for Mexico City that was one-third complete, saying bonds from the project would be repaid.

He said he would give further details in Tuesday's press conference after meeting with his finance minister, Carlos Urzua.

Criticized by opponents -- especially in the business world -- as radical and authoritarian, Lopez Obrador has triggered fears about the future of Latin America's second-largest economy after Brazil.

In the latest report from the central bank, a panel of independent economists revised down their forecast for Mexico's economic growth next year, from 2.2 percent to 1.9 percent.

Lopez Obrador won a landslide victory in the July 1 elections promising sweeping change in a country fed up with corruption and crime after 89 years of government by the same two parties.

Vowing to lead his anti-corruption, pro-austerity push by example, he has cut his own salary by 60 percent and forsworn the presidential residence, security detail and jet.

The latter was flown to California Monday to be refitted and sold.BEIRUT (Reuters) - A pro-Syrian Lebanese politician urged calm on Sunday after one of his aides was killed by gunfire during a police attempt to bring him in for questioning over accusations of stirring civil strife. Wiam Wahhab, a Druze ally of the powerful Shi'ite group Hezbollah who has close ties to Damascus, has been at the heart of rising political tension over the last week with a series of verbal attacks on Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri. Hariri supporters lodged a legal complaint against him after a video surfaced in which he was widely perceived to direct obscene insults at the Hariri family, including the late prime minister Rafik al-Hariri, without naming them. The tension has cast another shadow over efforts to form a new national unity government more than six months since an election, with rival parties still unable to agree on how to share out portfolios in the new cabinet. The internal security forces said they went to Wahhab's village of al-Jahiliya on Saturday evening to take him for questioning after the public prosecutor accepted the legal complaint against him and referred the matter to the police. In a statement, police said one of Wahhab's aides - Mohamed Abu Diyab - was shot in "random" gunfire by Wahhab supporters and denied the police had opened fire. Wahhab's Arab Tawhid Party said he was hit by a bullet fired by "the attackers". Wahhab said on Saturday the incident meant "civil war" but on Sunday urged calm while addressing Abu Diyab's funeral in Jahilya. "I am working to calm the atmosphere. I have (told) the guys it is forbidden to block roads or to annoy any citizen or to open fire during the funeral," Wahhab told al-Jadeed TV. Wahhab accused officials including Hariri of responsibility for the killing. A source close to Hariri, referring to Saturday's events, said: "These were judicial proceedings in which we had no intervention". Wahhab has said his comments in the video, which appeared to have been shot by mobile phone at a private gathering, were "general" and not directed at Rafik al-Hariri. Hariri's Future Movement said last week the Hariris were being targeted by "a campaign of falsehoods" hatched by "sick minds" bent on destabilizing Lebanon and obstructing efforts to form the new government. Lebanon has suffered spasms of political crisis and violence since its 1975-90 civil war. Hariri, Lebanon's main Sunni politician, currently heads a caretaker government. (Reporting by Tom Perry and Laila Bassam; Editing by Mark Heinrich)WASHINGTON (AP)  The top Democrat on the House intelligence committee says former Trump adviser Roger Stone's testimony should be provided to special counsel Robert Mueller "for consideration of whether perjury charges are warranted."

Rep. Adam Schiff said Sunday on ABC's "This Week" that emails between Stone and an associate, Jerome Corsi, are "inconsistent" with Stone's testimony before the congressional committee.

This comes after President Donald Trump's former lawyer pleaded guilty to lying to Congress, raising questions about whether the special counsel would pursue similar charges against others implicated in the Russia probe.

Mueller's investigators are trying to determine whether Corsi and Stone had advance knowledge of WikiLeaks' plans to release hacked material damaging to Hillary Clinton's presidential effort. U.S. intelligence agencies have said Russia was the source of that hacked material.

Stone and Corsi have denied any wrongdoing.Katowice (Poland) (AFP) - Nations facing imminent environmental disaster on Monday called on rich polluters to help them back from the brink, as the UN warned the world's plan to avoid climate catastrophe was "way off course".

From glaciers melting in Nepal to the rising seas threatening to engulf small island states, the world is already experiencing the damage lying in wait if global warming runs unchecked.

Nearly 200 nations gathered in Poland Monday for the start of the COP24 summit, where they must agree on a universal rulebook to make good on the promises they made in the 2015 Paris climate deal.

"Nepal is a country comprised of mountains and plains," president Bidhya Devi Bhandari told delegates. "We have been bearing the brunt of disproportionate impact of climate change despite being a low carbon-emitting country."

The Paris agreement vowed to limit global temperature rises to under two degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) and to the safer cap of 1.5C if at all possible.

For this, richer nations must provide funding -- $100 billion per year by 2020 -- to steer developing countries towards greener energy while drastically drawing down their own emissions.

But developing nations have complained that richer states -- responsible for the vast majority of historic fossil fuel use -- aren't doing enough to help them adapt to our warming planet.

"We feel as if we have been penalised for the mistakes we never made," said Bhandari. "It is incumbent on the international community to ensure that justice is done."

Trust in the Paris process has been hit by US President Donald Trump's decision to renege on his country's commitment, and there are fears the political will to act is waning as negotiations drag on.

Not a single G20 nation sent a top-level representative to the COP on Monday.

- 12 years to halve emissions -

With just one degree Celsius of warming so far, Earth is already being subjected to raging forest fires, flooding and superstorms made worse by rising seas.

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A string of UN reports have sounded the alarm: levels of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere are the highest in 3 million years and the last four years were the four hottest in history.

In October a team of more than 90 independent scientists said mankind must reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by half within the next 12 years to avoid heat rises that could tear at the fabric of society.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned nations that their plan to chart a route away from runaway global warming was "way off course".

"Even as we witness devastating climate impacts causing havoc across the world, we are still not doing enough, nor moving fast enough, to prevent irreversible and catastrophic climate disruption," Guterres said.

President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria used his address to call for more stringent guidelines on financing "from developed countries to developing economies for climate change action."

As developing nations begged for vastly quicker action, host Poland was pushing its own agenda: a so-called "just transition" to greener energy which critics fear would allow it to continue burning coal for decades.

- 'Generation that betrayed humanity' -

Eighty percent of Polish energy comes from coal, and the COP24 itself is being held on the site of a decommissioned plant in the mining city of Katowice.

Proceedings were injected with a shot of glamour as former California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and veteran wildlife documentary maker Sir David Attenborough both addressed delegates.

At a roundtable event later Monday, Schwarzenegger was asked what he would most wish for.

"I wish that I could be The Terminator in real life to be able to travel back in time and to stop all fossil fuels when they were discovered," said the former movie tough guy.

Attenborough issued a plea for action on behalf of humanity: "If we don't take action the collapse of our civilisations and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizon".

Frank Bainimarama, prime minister of Fiji and president of last year's COP, said developed nations must act before countries such has his are consumed by the waves.

"Or, God forbid, (we) ignore the irrefutable evidence and become the generation that betrayed humanity," he said.Algiers (AFP) - Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrived in the Algerian capital on Sunday night as part of a tour overshadowed by the murder of a dissident journalist.

The powerful prince and his large delegation were seen being greeted on a red carpet at Algiers airport by Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia and members of his government.

The aim of the trip was to give "new impetus to biliteral cooperation (and) the realisation of partnerships and investment projects", the Algerian presidency said ahead of the visit.

Prince Mohammed set off last week on his first foreign tour since the grisly murder of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi in Saudi Arabia's Istanbul consulate on October 2.

The Saudi crown prince's visit to Algeria has drawn criticism from political and academic circles in the North African country.

It was jointly denounced by 17 intellectuals, journalists, Muslim scholars and other figures in Algeria in a statement obtained by AFP.

In the statement, they said the "whole world is certain that he ordered a terrible crime against the journalist Jamal Khashoggi".

Political parties also expressed opposition to the visit, among them the Movement for the Society of Peace (MSP) opposition party.

It said Prince Mohammed was "responsible for the death of a large number of children and civilians in Yemen" as well as that of Khashoggi.

Louisa Hanoune, head of the opposition Workers' Party (PT), described his visit as a "provocation".

Earlier in the day, Prince Mohammed made a brief visit to Mauritania where he signed a series of agreements with President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz.

Khashoggi's killing has put mounting pressure on Riyadh and Prince Mohammed, who Turkish officials -- and reportedly the CIA -- have concluded was behind the critic's death.

Saudi authorities have vehemently denied the crown prince was involved in the murder, although Riyadh has admitted he was killed at the Istanbul consulate.Algiers (AFP) - Algeria's President Abdelaziz Bouteflika called off a meeting with visiting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday because of ill health, the national news agency APS reported.

It said the 81-year-old president, whose health has been fragile since he suffered a stroke in 2013 and is rarely seen in public, was "in bed with a heavy flu".

Bouteflika postponed a meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in February 2017 and was last seen on Algerian television on November 1 laying a wreath at the country's independence war memorial.

Prince Mohammed, on his first foreign tour since the October 2 murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, held talks instead with Prime Minister Ahmed Ouyahia, Algeria's presidency said, during a low-key visit that was kept largely out of the media spotlight.

The visit would focus on "partnerships and investment projects", the Algerian presidency said before the prince arrived in Algiers late Sunday on a flight from Mauritania.

Like a previous stop in Tunis, the crown prince's visit has drawn criticism from political and academic circles in Algeria over the Saudi-led war in Yemen and Washington Post columnist Khashoggi's grisly murder in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.

It was jointly denounced by 17 intellectuals, journalists, Muslim scholars and other figures in the North African country, in a statement obtained by AFP.

They said the "whole world is certain that he ordered a terrible crime against the journalist Jamal Khashoggi".

Khashoggi's killing has put mounting pressure on Riyadh and Prince Mohammed, who Turkish officials -- and reportedly the CIA -- have concluded was behind the critic's death.

Saudi authorities have vehemently denied the crown prince was involved.

The prince flew out of Algiers later Monday without an announcement on his next destination.

With its traditionally neutral stand, Algiers has good relations with Saudi Arabia's regional rival Iran but has also maintained cordial ties with Riyadh.

"Algeria finds itself half-way between the position of Iran and that of Saudi Arabia. It has never taken a position on their conflict," Rachid Grim, a political science professor at Algiers University, told AFP.By Ron Bousso LONDON (Reuters) - Royal Dutch Shell caved in to growing investor pressure over climate change on Monday, setting out plans to introduce industry-leading carbon emissions targets linked to executive pay. Rivals BP and Total have already set short-term targets on reducing carbon dioxide emissions, but these are limited to their own operations. Shell's targets, which will be introduced in 2020, will be more extensive with inclusion of the so-called Scope 3 emissions from the burning of fuels sold to millions of customers around the world, the company said. Monday's move marks a change of tack for Shell Chief Executive Ben van Beurden, who had previously resisted setting hard goals, saying it would be "foolhardy" to expose Shell to legal challenges. Shareholders have criticized Shell for previously setting long-term "ambitions" to halve carbon dioxide emissions by 2050, which lacked binding targets for implementation. But after discussions with investors, the Anglo-Dutch oil and gas giant said that from 2020 it will set three-year or five-year targets every year. Sacha Sadan, director of corporate governance at Shell investor Legal and General, said: "It is a very strong message from the world's second-largest oil company. As investors, we will go to other companies about what they can do. Shell are showing that it is hard but doable." Shell, which did not specify any targets on Monday, plans to link targets and other measures to its executive remuneration policy. The revised policy will be put to shareholders for approval at its annual meeting in 2020. The company has already linked 10 percent of executives' remuneration to reducing carbon emissions from the company's operations. The new targets will include Scope 3 emissions, a Shell spokeswoman said. "We are taking important steps towards turning our Net Carbon Footprint ambition into reality by setting shorter-term targets," CEO Van Beurden said in a statement. The move comes as governments meet in Poland for a United Nations-hosted conference to lay out a "rule book" to implement the 2015 Paris climate accord that set goals to phase out fossil fuel use this century, shift towards cleaner energies and help to limit global warming. (Reporting by Ron Bousso; Editing by Alexander Smith, Kirsten Donovan and David Goodman)Snake Pass, in Derbyshire, which could be hit by around 5cm of snow overnight on Tuesday according to the Met Office. (PA).

Snow has been forecast for Northern England as temperatures drop this week.

The Met Office said peaks of 400m and above in the North could see a covering of up to 5cm as temperatures drop below zero on Tuesday.

However, the colder temperatures  set to arrive on Tuesday  arent expected to last with a wild end to the week set to blast away the cold snap.

The coldest place in the UK is expected to be Western Scotland on Tuesday, where temperatures could drop as low as -6c and a yellow weather warning for ice is in place.

Snow covers Snake Pass, in Derbyshire, last month. The Met Office has forecast snow for the region overnight on Tuesday. (PA).

Met Office forecaster Becky Mitchell said: In Western Scotland there is a yellow weather warning in place and temperatures could fall as low as -6c tonight (Monday).

On Monday we have seen temperatures in double figures, with a high of around 13c in the South East.

On Tuesday they could drop to single figures with highs of around 6c to 8c, for most places it will be completely dry.

On Tuesday into Wednesday there will be some rain pushing from the south which will affect England, Wales and Northern Ireland, it will be heavy.

On Wednesday there will be widespread frost.

There could be some snow in the early hours of Wednesday over parts of England  mainly the Pennines and the Peak District at 400m and above with a covering of 2 to 5cm.

Once weve had that snow temperatures will rise and its set to be windy on Thursday and Friday.

Watch the latest videos from Yahoo UKBUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP)  Russian President Vladimir Putin got his chance to talk with U.S. President Donald Trump after all  but their brief exchange over Ukraine didn't accomplish much.

Russia put on a brave face after Trump abruptly junked a much-awaited sit-down with Putin, blaming it on internal U.S. politics and "anti-Russian hysteria." But Trump's snub was a clear kick to Putin as he joined a Group of 20 gathering in Argentina, where Western leaders banded together to denounce Russia's actions in Ukraine.

The two men did end up talking briefly Saturday on the sidelines of the G-20  just long enough for Trump to ask Putin what he is up to in Ukraine, and for Putin to respond.

"I answered his questions about the incident in the Black Sea. He has his position. I have my own. We stayed in our own positions," Putin told reporters.

So Putin turned elsewhere for attention.

He subbed in Turkey's president for the time slot he had reserved for Trump, and sought to strengthen his alliance with China and other non-Western economies. And he cozied up at Friday's round-table talks to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, somewhat of a fellow outcast at the G-20 over his suspected role in the killing of a dissident Saudi journalist.

Putin called it "too bad" that Trump cancelled their formal meeting, and hinted at the potential fallout if the leaders of the world's two biggest nuclear powers can't talk to each other substantively. Putin warned that the U.S. intention to opt out of a Cold War-era nuclear pact "creates risks of an uncontrollable arms race."

As the summit opened, European leaders lined up to criticize what one called Russia's "aggression" on Ukraine  the weekend seizure of Ukrainian ships and crew members near Crimea. The Group of 7 foreign ministers issued a statement demanding the seamen's release.

The standoff was the official reason that Trump cancelled his meeting with Putin, calling what's happening in Ukraine "very bad."

Story continues

The Russian interpretation of the cancellation, however, echoed that of some of Trump's critics at home, who noted the move came amid new challenges for Trump in the probe into Russia's alleged role in his 2016 election campaign.

"If the domestic situation and the pressure from Russophobes like Ukraine and its sponsors prevents the U.S. president from developing normal ties with the Russian president ... we will wait for another chance," Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said, adding "love can't be forced."

Prominent Russian lawmaker Leonid Slutsky said Trump probably fears that if he meets with Putin, his domestic rivals "will call him a Russian agent."

Isolated by Western democracies, Putin pushed instead to inject new strength into the so-called BRICS grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

"The five can, for a good reason, play a more significant role in the global financial system, strive to continue the reform of the IMF and strengthen our influence in the Fund," Putin said at a BRICS meeting.

He wasn't avoiding Western critics, though. Putin met France's president Friday  carefully drawing a map of Ukraine's coastline to explain Russia's claims that its seizures of the Ukrainian ships was justified  and will see Germany's chancellor Saturday.

Still, what Putin really wants is to make a deal with Trump.

The Russian leader, who views global politics as a cynical power play, sees himself as a consummate negotiator who can advance Moscow's interests through strong personal contacts with foreign leaders.

He repeatedly voiced a belief that Trump sincerely wants to improve ties with Russia but has been prevented from doing so by his political foes.

"Playing the Russian card has become a convenient tool for solving internal political problems," Putin said recently. "I hope it will end someday. Maybe it will happen in 2020 when the next U.S. presidential election is held and he will no longer have to constantly look back at those who engage in anti-Russian rhetoric."

Putin's wish list is topped by a desire to see an end to crippling anti-Russian sanctions imposed by the U.S. and its allies for Russia's annexation of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula, its support for separatist insurgents in eastern Ukraine and other actions by Moscow.

Putin also wants to talk to Trump about his intention to opt out of the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty over alleged Russian violations. Putin strongly denied any Russian breaches of the pact.

The Russian leader has warned that if the United States deploys intermediate-range missiles that are currently banned under the treaty to Europe, Russia will have to target the nations that would host them.

Such weapons are seen as extremely destabilizing as they take just a few minutes to reach targets, leaving virtually no time for decision-makers and dramatically increasing the possibility of a nuclear conflict over a false attack warning or technical glitch.

There was a risk that the Trump-Putin meeting could have worked out badly for both of them.

After the summit with Putin in July, Trump was widely criticized for failing to publicly denounce Russia's interference in the 2016 U.S. election and appearing to accept Putin's denials of such activity. More anti-Russian sanctions followed and relations soured further.

___

Associated Press writer Angela Charlton reported in Buenos Aires and AP writer Vladimir Isachenkov reported from Moscow.Madrid (AFP) - The first success of a far-right party in a regional election since Spain's return to democracy in 1975 has shaken national politics ahead of a busy electoral season.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialists were set to lose control of southern Andalusia, which it has governed for over three decades, after Vox took a surprise 12 seats in a regional election on Sunday. That handed a majority to right-wing parties in Spain's most populous region.

It was Sanchez's first electoral test since taking office in June after winning a vote of no-confidence against the conservative Popular Party (PP) government of Mariano Rajoy over a corruption scandal.

Top-selling daily El Pais called the results an "earthquake" which has changed the "national political panorama".

On Monday evening, hundreds protested against the emergence of Vox in several cities in Andalusia, including Seville and Malaga, videos posted online by Internet users and Spanish media showed.

The vote kicks off a series of polls with municipal, regional and European elections slated for May, and an early general election widely expected next year.

Vox, which takes a hard line against illegal immigration and Catalan separatism, is the first far-right party to win representation in a regional parliament in Spain since the country returned to democracy following the death of longtime dictator Francisco Franco in 1975.

With its 12 lawmakers, Vox could now play a kingmaker role in the formation of a governing coalition in Andalusia.

"We've got the message from citizens," tweeted Andalusia's Socialist president Susana Diaz, who faces an uphill struggle to remain as regional leader.

"Now it's about... stopping the government of Andalusia from depending on an extremist, sexist, homophobic and racist party," she said, adding she would negotiate with political groupings.

- Revival of Spanish nationalism -

Story continues

Sanchez, who heads a minority national government that has struggled to garner opposition party support to pass its draft 2019 budget, vowed to defend democracy.

"The results in Andalusia strengthen our commitment to defend the constitution and democracy from fear," he said in a Twitter message Monday, his first reaction to the poll results.

Fernando Vallespin, a political scientist at the Autonomous University of Madrid, said Spain had "ceased to be the exception in Europe", where far-right parties have already made gains in countries like Italy where they now govern.

But unlike other European nations, where the rise of far-right parties has been fuelled by anti-immigrant and anti-EU platforms, Vox owes its gains largely to its fierce defence of Spanish unity, he told AFP.

The election in Andalusia was the first outside Catalonia since last year's failed independence push and it "has had the effect that many feared", said Vallespin: the revival of extreme Spanish nationalism.

Vox has called for independence parties to be banned and wants to centralise power by putting an end to regional governments.

- 'Reconquering starts in Andalusia' -

The centre-right Ciudadanos, which also takes a tough stance against Catalan separatism, saw its representation rise by 12 seats to 21 in Andalusia's 109-seat parliament.

Vox, which was formed in 2013, hopes to build on its win in the upcoming elections and analysts said it had room to grow.

"The Reconquista (reconquering) starts in Andalusian lands and will extend across all of Spain," the party said in a Twitter message on Sunday night. That was a reference to a long series of medieval wars waged to recapture territory from the Muslims who occupied most of the Iberian Peninsula in the early 8th century.

"This party will start to quickly rise in the polls at the national level, and have the capacity to set the agenda," Pablo Simon, a political science professor at Madrid's Carlos III university, told AFP.

Vox will "without a doubt" win seats in next year's local and European elections and could win 5-6 seats in the next national election, he said.

Sanchez could now call snap polls "to try to mobilise left-wing voters with the fear of the far right", but this risks giving rise to a conservative government at the national level made up of the PP, Ciudadanos and Vox, Simon said.

"It is a complicated situation and I don't know what is the best option to resolve this dilemma," he added.Beijing (AFP) - The US and Chinese leaders have agreed to a truce in their trade war. Now comes the hard part for negotiators who will have 90 days to resolve major differences.

The White House announced after talks between President Donald Trump and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on Saturday that a tariff hike that had been due on January 1 would be suspended for three months while the two sides negotiate a resolution.

Here are four key issues that could be stumbling blocks in efforts between the world's two biggest economies to reach an agreement:

- Deficit gap -

Trump desperately wants China to reduce its $335 billion trade surplus.

US officials say China unfairly uses subsidies and other tactics to flood US markets with goods too cheap for American companies to compete with, including steel and aluminium.

As part of the truce, China has agreed to purchase substantial amounts of agricultural, energy, and industrial products from the US to reduce the huge trade gap, according to the White House.

But no target dollar amount was announced -- an omission that shows the two sides will have to haggle over how much China is willing to import from the United States.

China's agreement to "immediately" restart buying products from US farmers could prove a boon to Trump, who needs the support of his rural base as the 2020 Presidential election approaches.

Beijing had in July imposed a 25-percent border tax on US soybeans and other products, dealing a blow to Trump's rural electoral base.

- Intellectual property -

The US side will likely look for reassurances from China that it will crack down on the alleged theft of intellectual property.

Trump in March imposed tariffs on $50 billion worth of imports from China for punishment over alleged IP theft, which the US says costs its companies as much as $600 billion a year -- which China has denied.

A recent report by US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer's office accused China of continuing a campaign of state-backed cyber-attacks on American companies.

Story continues

Seeking to shake its reputation for counterfeit goods, China has in recent years taken steps to improve IP protections, including establishing specialised IP courts to handle matters including patent disputes, copyright and trademark infringement.

China also launched a nationwide campaign to protect foreign firms' international property rights in 2017.

- Know-how transfer -

The United States and European nations have also long accused China of forcing foreign firms to transfer their know-how to local partners in order to do business in the country.

Lighthizer's report accused China of using foreign ownership restrictions, administrative licensing and approvals, as well as a "non-transparent and discretionary" foreign investment approvals system to pressure firms to transfer technology.

Xi vowed on Wednesday to boost protection of intellectual property, but foreign firms in China complain that the promise is too routine and rings hollow.

- China's high-tech ambitions -

China is dependent on countries such as the US and South Korea for high-end microchips, a weakness in its bid to become a global tech leader.

The trade truce makes no mention of China's "Made in China 2025" plan to develop high-tech prowess to a level rivalling the United States.

But Oxford Economics said in a note that it is "possible that China has hinted at a willingness to change certain aspects of the 'Made in China 2025' plan".

Aiming to reduce reliance on foreign technology, the policy targets key sectors including robotics, new energy vehicles, and telecommunications equipment.

The US has targeted Chinese tech companies, citing national security concerns.

In October the US restricted sales of crucial technology to state-owned chipmaker Fujian Jinhua, accusing it of stealing trade secrets.

Telecoms equipment maker ZTE collapsed 40 percent in June after Washington banned US companies from selling crucial hardware and software components to it for seven years, though the ban was lifted after it agreed to pay a huge fine.

According to the White House, China is open to reconsidering Qualcomm's bid to buy Dutch chip rival NXP, which it previously blocked.The school has apologised profusely to parents (Getty)

A school has apologised after a substitute teacher told Year 1 students Father Christmas isnt real.

Michael Raj, the principal of Cedar Hill School in New Jersey, sent a letter to parents following the incident last week.

Mr Raj, who is also a parent, said he understands the sensitive nature of the topic.

Montville Schools Superintendent Rene Rovtar said in a statement that she was troubled and disheartened by this incident.

According to local media reports, Ms Rovtar said that childhood wonder associated with all holidays and traditions is special to her.

Mr Raj said hes spoken with the teacher about her poor judgment.

Lisa Simek, a parent of one of the students, claims children were told parents just buy presents and put them under their tree.

She told them reindeer cant fly and elves are not real, elf on the shelf is just a pretend doll that your parents move around, the mum wrote on Facebook.

Ms Simek also claims the teacher told students the tooth fairy isnt real and the Easter Bunny is made up.

She told them magic does not exist, she wrote.

There is no such thing as magic anything.

She added parents have been in damage control since the children came home from school.

However, journalism students at Toms River High East have offered to write personalised letters to students from the North Pole as part of a creative writing assignment.

Ms Simek said she didnt want the teacher blamed as no one knows her situation or perspective.

Administrators havent released the teachers name or said if she would be allowed to work again in the district.Beirut (AFP) - The US-led coalition against the Islamic State group said Monday it killed a senior jihadist involved in the executions of an American aid worker and other Western hostages.

Abu al-Umarayn was accused of involvement in the November 2014 beheading of Peter Kassig, a former US ranger who was doing volunteer humanitarian work when captured in 2013.

"He was killed and more information will be available after a full assessment," Sean Ryan, spokesman for the US-led coalition, said in a statement issued after the Sunday strikes.

"Al Umarayn had given indications of posing an imminent threat to coalition forces and he was involved in the killing of American citizen and former US Army Ranger, Peter Kassig," he said.

Ryan said the jihadist had also been involved in the execution of several other prisoners.

It is the first time the coalition, which has been hunting down IS fighters in Iraq and Syria since 2014, has announced the killing of a jihadist leader linked to Kassig's death.

At the time of the execution, IS released a video showing Kassig's severed head but did not publish footage of the decapitation, as it had done for other hostages.

Syria's official SANA news agency had earlier Sunday accused the US-led coalition of firing on Syrian army positions in remote eastern regions.

- Regime targeted? -

"The American coalition forces launched around 8:00 pm (1800 GMT) this evening several missiles against some positions of our forces in the Ghorab mountains south of Sukhna," it said.

Quoting a military source, it said the bombardment had caused only material damage.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said coalition forces fired "more than 14 missiles" at a Syrian army convoy as it was passing through the desert.

"The group was lost in the middle of the desert around 35 kilometres from the Al-Tanf base", the Observatory's director Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP.

Story continues

The United States often uses this base to launch its strikes against IS jihadists.

Ryan, the coalition spokesman, denied any strikes targeted the Syrian army.

"False, the strikes were as the report stated and directed at ISIS," he said, using another acronym for the jihadist organisation.

Kassig founded a humanitarian organisation in 2012 that trained some 150 civilians to provide medical aid to people in Syria. His group also gave food, cooking supplies, clothing and medicine to the needy.

He took the name Abdul Rahman after converting to Islam.

His execution was part of a gruesome series of Western hostage beheadings that IS filmed and published to shock the world as it attempted to expand across the region.

- 2014 executions -

Before Kassig's decapitation, which IS announced on November 16, four other hostages were executed by IS:

- British aid worker Alan Henning (video released on October 3)

- British aid worker David Haines (video released on September 13)

- US journalist Steven Sotloff (video released on September 2)

- US journalist James Foley (video released on August 19)

Another hostage held at the time and whose execution was threatened was British journalist John Cantlie.

He later appeared in videos in which he uttered IS propaganda but, more than six years after his kidnapping, his fate remains unclear.

The leader of the cell which was responsible for the executions and became known as "The Beatles" was believed to be Mohammed Emwazi, a British jihadist nicknamed "Jihadi John" who was killed in a drone strike in 2015.

After expanding to control a self-styled "caliphate" straddling Syria and Iraq which was larger than Britain, IS suffered a string of military setbacks.

It has virtually no fixed positions left in Iraq and is now defending a few pockets in desert areas of Syria, including the region where Sunday's strikes were carried out.

The other is the jihadists' main active front in the Hajin area of Deir Ezzor province, where coalition-backed Kurdish-led fighters have been struggling to flush out a group of jihadists making a fierce last stand.

The coalition has estimated around 2,000 jihadists remain inside that pocket.

The international alliance, as well as the Syrian government and its Russian backers, have all repeatedly vowed to carry on the fight until achieving a full victory over IS.

But analysts have warned that fully eradicating the jihadists from those desert hideouts, where the state has a very limited footprint, could prove almost impossible.Terry Crews (Credit: EFE)

Terry Crews has said that those who have abused others in the workplace shouldnt be allowed to go back to work.

Speaking at a panel event for the Teen Vogue Summit in Los Angeles, he said that they need to be made accountable for their actions.

Crews accused Adam Venit, an agent for his former representation WME, who has now retired, of groping him at a Hollywood party in 2016.

In September, Crews said that he had accepted an apology from Venit over the alleged incident.

I think as men, what we need to do is to say, Were sorry. Then we need to concede, and then we need to be accountable, Crews said (via THR).

The person who molested me in 2016, I had already forgiven him. That wasnt the point. The point was like, Wait, wait, youre telling me you can just do it? Youre telling me, wait, its okay? Youre not going to do anything? Hes like, No, I said I was sorry.

I said, But youre not going to correct this? Im giving you guys millions of dollars and youre going to sit here and say, Well, Terry, youre less of a human being right now. Just a little bit less. Just say it. Im, like, Im not saying that.

You cant ignore me, Im standing right here, he went on. All of a sudden youre an activist. Hey, who does he think he is, standing here like youre a human being or something? Yeah, I am. And all I did, this was not waving flags, this was not shooting guns in the air, this was like, No, no, no, youre not going to do that.

Crews in Brooklyn Nine-Nine (Credit: Fox)

No, he cant go back to work. No. He cant go back to work and do that. No man, woman, child  you cannot molest anybody and go back to work.

Crews parted with the WME agency in November, 2017, and sued both Venit and WME in December.

They settled a lawsuit in September this year.

Crews went on to admit that prior to the events of the #MeToo movement, he was part of Hollywoods culture of toxic masculinity.

Ive been involved in some of the most competitive, toxic environments you could probably ever be in. I mean, its really bad. But I was also a card-carrying member. Im guilty, he said.

Story continues

Toxic masculinity wants you to do what I say. Its domination. And I was part of that. My daughters here, and I dont want to put her on the spot because shes so beautiful, but Im telling you she grew up in a different household, because my oldest daughter is 32, and I remember yelling, screaming, anger, domination. It had to be my way or the highway.

Men need to concede. I, Terry Crews, had to concede. I had to say, I got this wrong. I didnt do it right. I had to correct. I had to make sure its not only apologies; its about accountability. I had to be accountable to my family, to my wife, to people that I did wrong in the past.

Read more

All the easter eggs in Ralph Breaks The Internet

Secret Cinema announces Casino Royale

Judi Dench says she was lucky to avoid harassmentTheresa May has refused to say if the UK will be better off under her Brexit deal.

In an interview on ITVs This Morning, the prime minister repeatedly avoided the question of her Brexit strategy would mean for the country.

She told This Morning hosts Philip Schofield and Rochelle Humes: We can be better off.

But when Mr Schofield asked her if that means we will be, she replied: Thats up to us.

Theresa May has refused to predict the impact of her Brexit deal (Picture: ITV)

Asked by Mrs Humes, Will we be better off?, the prime minister dodged the question.

Instead, she said: A lot of people ask this question. I believe we can be better off. But its not just about the deal.

She also told This Morning she is keen to have a Brexit debate with Jeremy Corbyn but fears that holding it on ITV would mean she missed Strictly Come Dancing.

MORE: Teens and children had 45,000 operations to remove teeth last year

MORE: Theresa Mays Brexit plan is a deal in name only, says latest minister to quit

The government and Labour are at loggerheads over whether to accept a BBC proposal for the discussion, favoured by Downing Street, or that of the commercial broadcaster, which Labour prefers.

Opposition leader Mr Corbyn last week complained on This Morning that the BBCs proposal would clash with jungle-based reality show Im a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!

On Monday, Mrs May used the same platform to bemoan missing its ballroom dancing-based rival.

A head-to-head debate between the party leaders is due to take place on December 9, just two days before MPs are due to vote on her Withdrawal Agreement.

Philip Schofield and Rochelle Humes interview Theresa May on This Morning (Picture: ITV)

Mrs May told This Morning: Im keen to have a head-to-head with Jeremy Corbyn, I hope this actually goes through.

He said he wanted to be on ITV so he could watch the final of Im a Celebrity I think his proposal meant that I would miss Strictly.

I hate to say this on ITV but Im a bit of a Strictly fan.

'I've got a deal that delivers what people voted for'. Prime Minister Theresa May on her Brexit vision. pic.twitter.com/L3kUbeInV4  This Morning (@thismorning) December 3, 2018

She added that which channel would host the programme was still being worked out, with less than a week to go until it is supposed to go ahead.

Story continues

It came after leading Tory Eurosceptics warned that the BBCs planned leaders TV debate would breach the concept of impartiality unless it involves a prominent Brexiteer.

The Daily Telegraph reported Boris Johnson, Dominic Raab and other former Cabinet ministers have written to BBC chairman Sir David Clementi to complain the views of the 17.4 million people who voted for Brexit would be nowhere represented in the discussion.

They noted that both Mrs May and Mr Corbyn voted Remain in the referendum, adding: They are both wedded to slightly different models of staying in the customs union.

They said that a senior Brexiteer should be included in the main line-up and not just on a proposed panel.

This is, after all, not a general election and the Government or the opposition cannot be allowed to play fast and loose with representative democracy, they said.Emile Ratelband, 69, who has lost a battle with a Dutch court in the hope of legally lowering his age from 69 to 49 in the hope of attracting more matches on dating app Tinder. (AP

A Dutch motivational speaker has lost a court battle in a bid to shave 20 years off his age in a bid to gain more matches on dating app Tinder.

Emile Ratelband, 69, hit global headline when he launched legal action hoping to lower his age from 69 to 49 to try and improve his success rate on the app.

But on Monday the self-styled self-help guru lost his challenge.

Emile Ratelband has lost a legal bid to shave 20 years off his age in the hope of gaining more matches on Tinder. Stock image (AP).

A statement released by Arnhem court said: Mr Ratelband is at liberty to feel 20 years younger than his real age and to act accordingly.

But amending his date of birth would cause 20 years of records to vanish from the register of births, deaths, marriages and registered partnerships.

This would have a variety of undesirable legal and societal implications.

Mr Ratelband went to court last month, arguing that he did not feel 69 and saying his request was consistent with other forms of personal transformation which are gaining acceptance in the Netherlands and around the world, such as the ability to change ones name or gender.

But in a written ruling, the court said Dutch law assigns rights and obligations based on age such as the right to vote and the duty to attend school.

If Mr Ratelbands request was allowed, those age requirements would become meaningless.

Emile Ratelband, 69, launched his bid to have 20 years removed from his age in November. On December 3, he learned it was unsuccessful.

The court said it acknowledged a trend in society for people to feel fit and healthy for longer, but did not regard that as a valid argument for amending a persons date of birth.

It said Mr Ratelband failed to convince the court that he suffers from age discrimination.

It added that there are other alternatives available for challenging age discrimination, rather than amending a persons date of birth.

Watch the latest videos from Yahoo UKPresident Trump announced Sunday night that China will reduce and remove tariffs on U.S.-made cars, which are currently at 40 percent.

China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 3, 2018

The president did not give details about when the reduced tariffs would go into effect or how much lower they would be.

The Chinese government has not yet commented on Trumps statement.

The announcement comes after Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday negotiated a halt to their countries trade war and agreed not to impose further tariffs, at least temporarily. The two world leaders and their delegations spoke over a two-and-a-half-hour dinner after the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

This was an amazing and productive meeting with unlimited possibilities for both the United States and China, Trump said. It is my great honor to be working with President Xi.

Saturdays agreement means U.S. tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods will hold at 10 percent instead of rising to 25 percent on January 1.

China also said it would purchase a very substantial amount of agricultural, energy, industrial, and other product from the United States to reduce the trade imbalance between our two countries, read a statement from White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders.

If at the end of this period of time, the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the 10 percent tariffs will be raised to 25 percent, the press secretary said.

During the summer, China reduced tariffs on imported cars from 25 percent to 15 percent. Almost immediately afterwards, however, the mammoth economy targeted American cars and other products with a new 25 percent tariff. The hike was a counterpunch to Trump raising tariffs on Chinese autos from 2.5 percent to 27.5 percent.

China accused the U.S. in July of starting the biggest trade war in economic history.

Trump has slapped more and more tariffs on Chinese goods in recent months, causing trepidation among investors and companies about whether the moves would negatively affect the U.S. economy.President Donald Trump has lashed out at his former personal lawyer, saying that he should serve a "full and complete sentence" instead of a reduced sentence for helping special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into potential ties between the Trump campaign and Russian meddling in the 2016 election.

Mr Trump's attack on Michael Cohen came on Monday morning, just days after the lawyer pleaded guilty to lying to Congress about negotiations between Russian officials and the Trump Organisation about a planned real estate development in Moscow. He said that he had lied when he said that negotiations had stopped before the 2016 Republican primaries, and had done so for political reasons related to Mr Trump's presidential campaign.

"You mean he can do all of the TERRIBLE, unrelated to Trump, things having to do with fraud, big loans, Taxis, etc., and not serve a long prison term? He makes up stories to get a GREAT & ALREADY reduced deal for himself, and get his wife and father-in-law (who has the money?) off Scott Free," Mr Trump tweeted. "He lied for this outcome and should, in my opinion, serve a full and complete sentence".

Cohen admitted last week to having lied to Congress during testimony when he said that Mr Trump had no business or financial ties to Russia during the Republican primaries in 2016, even though he kept Mr Trump and his family updated on ongoing negotiations for a Trump Tower Moscow project through June 2016. Mr Trump, in early 2016, had told reporters himself that he had no ties to Russia, but appeared to defend potential Russian ties last week after the Cohen news broke in saying that he was still a businessman during the 2016 campaign.

"He's a weak person, and not a very smart person," Mr Trump said last week before flying to Argentina for the G20 summit. "Here's the thing, even if he was right, it doesn't matter because I was allowed to do whatever I wanted during the campaign. I was running my business, a lot of different things during the campaign".

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Michael Cohen asks judge for no Prison Time. You mean he can do all of the TERRIBLE, unrelated to Trump, things having to do with fraud, big loans, Taxis, etc., and not serve a long prison term? He makes up stories to get a GREAT & ALREADY reduced deal for himself, and get.....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 3, 2018

....his wife and father-in-law (who has the money?) off Scott Free. He lied for this outcome and should, in my opinion, serve a full and complete sentence.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 3, 2018

Cohen's guilty plea was accompanied by a statement from his lawyer indicating that he plans on continuing to cooperate with the Mueller probe, and that he had already sat for dozens of hours of interviews with investigators.

Cohen had previously pleaded guilty to eight felony charges, including financial fraud and felony campaign finance violations. In court documents, Cohen said that he had violated campaign finance laws in the run up to the 2016 election by paying hush money to two women who allegedly had affairs with Mr Trump. Cohen claims that he made those payments at the behest of Mr Trump, but the president has repeatedly denied any knowledge of those payments.

Mr Mueller's team has brought charges against several associates of the presidents, as well as at least a dozen Russian individuals or entities.

Last week, the special counsel's office alleged that former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort had violated a plea agreement by lying to investigators.

Those allegations could lead to further jail time for Mr Manafort. He has denied intentionally lying or misleading investigators.Pakistan's foreign ministry said Monday that US President Donald Trump has written a letter to prime minister Imran Khan seeking Islamabad's support in securing a "negotiated settlement" to the war in Afghanistan.

The development comes as Washington steps up efforts to hold peace talks with the resurgent Taliban, more than 17 years after the invasion of Afghanistan.

In the letter, Trump said a settlement is "his most important regional priority", the Pakistani foreign ministry stated.

"In this regard, he has sought Pakistan's support and facilitation", it continued.

In a televised interview to selected journalists in the evening, Khan said his government would "try our best to make the Afghan Taliban sit together with the Americans so that negotiations can be carried forward," without giving further details.

US officials accuse Islamabad of ignoring or even collaborating with groups such as the Afghan Taliban and the Haqqani network, which attack Afghanistan from safe havens along the border between the two countries.

The White House believes that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence agency and other military bodies have long helped fund and arm the Taliban both for ideological reasons and to counter rising Indian influence in Afghanistan.

It believes that a Pakistani crackdown on the militants could be pivotal in deciding the outcome of the war.

Pakistan has long denied the claims and says it has paid the price for its alliance with the US in the so-called "war on terror", with thousands of its citizens killed in its long struggle with militancy.

"Trump acknowledged that the war had cost both USA and Pakistan," the foreign ministry statement continued.

Islamabad would help facilitate any talks "in good faith", the ministry added.

The troubled relationship between Pakistan and the US hit yet another bump last month after Trump declared he had cancelled assistance worth hundreds of millions of dollars because Islamabad does not do "a damn thing" for the US.

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Khan hit back at the criticism on Twitter, calling on the US president to name an ally that has sacrificed more against militancy.

Trump's letter came as the US announced Zalmay Khalilzad will make another visit starting this week as special envoy to the region.

Khalilzad will meet officials in Pakistan and Afghanistan, as well as Russia, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Belgium and the United Arab Emirates, as part of the push for talks.

He recently expressed hopes that a peace deal to end the war could be struck before the Afghan presidential election, scheduled for April.

At an international conference on Afghanistan in Geneva last Monday, Afghan president Ashraf Ghani said a 12-person Afghan negotiating team has been prepared for peace talks.

But the Taliban, who have previously insisted they will only speak with US officials, rejected Ghani's overtures, calling the government in Kabul "impotent" and a "waste of time".President Trump said Monday he expects to enter negotiations with the leaders of Russia and China that would bring a meaningful halt to the major and uncontrollable arms race between the countries.

I am certain that, at some time in the future, President Xi and I, together with President Putin of Russia, will start talking about a meaningful halt to what has become a major and uncontrollable Arms Race. The U.S. spent 716 Billion Dollars this year. Crazy!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 3, 2018

The president announced in October that the U.S. would be scrapping the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty with Russia, signed in 1987 by President Ronald Reagan and Soviet head of state Mikhail Gorbachev.

Russia has violated the agreement. Theyve been violating it for many years, Trump said at the time. If Russias doing it and if Chinas doing it and were adhering to the agreement, thats unacceptable.

The treaty prevents the U.S. from developing certain nuclear cruise missiles, a limitation not faced by China, which is not a signatory of the treaty.

In the coming decade the growing conventional military imbalance could well mean that the United States will not be able to uphold its security commitments to allies or reassure partners in the Indo-Pacific in the face of an increasingly assertive China, wrote Eric Sayers, a special assistant to Admiral Harry Harris, who was the head of the U.S. Pacific Command before his recent retirement.

Last week, Trump abruptly canceled a meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin scheduled for the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires over Russias recent seizure of Ukrainian Navy ships and sailors.

Meanwhile, Trump and Chinese president Xi Jinping are locked in a trade war that has seen the U.S. slap tariffs on $250 billion of Chinese goods and China levy tariffs on $110 billion of American goods. The two agreed Saturday to a temporary freeze on those tariffs.Washington (AFP) - US President Donald Trump boasted Monday that US relations with China have taken a "BIG leap forward" following his meeting in Argentina with President Xi Jinping.

"Very good things will happen. We are dealing from great strength, but China likewise has much to gain if and when a deal is completed. Level the field!" he said in a series of early morning tweet.

Trump alluded -- possibly inadvertently -- to the "Great Leap Forward," Mao Zedong's disastrous campaign to rapidly industrialize China's agrarian economy, which historians believe led to the deaths of tens of millions of people in the Great Chinese Famine.

Trump, who joined Xi in calling a truce on an intensifying trade war between their two powerhouse countries, earlier touted a roll-back in Chinese tariffs on US-made cars.

At their dinner meeting in Buenos Aires Saturday, the two leaders agreed to suspend any new tariffs and give negotiators 90 days to strike a deal, sending stock markets soaring.

"My meeting in Argentina with President Xi of China was an extraordinary one. Relations with China have taken a BIG leap forward!" Trump said.

"Farmers will be a very BIG and FAST beneficiary of our deal with China. They intend to start purchasing agricultural product immediately. We make the finest and cleanest product in the World, and that is what China wants. Farmers, I LOVE YOU!" he said.

Trump went on to praise what he said was his "very strong and personal relationship" with Xi.

"He and I are the only two people that can bring about massive and very positive change, on trade and far beyond, between our two great Nations. A solution for North Korea is a great thing for China and ALL!"London (AFP) - Britain's spy chief warned Vladimir Putin on Monday that London would no longer take the Kremlin at its word as it fights Russia's "perpetual confrontation" with the West.

MI6 foreign intelligence agency head Alex Younger came out of the shadows to deliver only his second public address since assuming office four years ago -- a period of flaring conflicts with Moscow.

Younger's agency has pinpointed the blame for the March poisoning with a nerve agent in England of former double agent Sergei Skripal on two officers with Russia's GRU military intelligence service.

MI6 also accuses the GRU for hacking the OPCW chemical weapons watchdog in The Hague the following month in an apparent bid to figure out the course of its probe into the Skripal case.

Younger called the poisoning a "flagrant hostile act".

Skripal survived the attack and Moscow has denied involvement in either incident.

"Mr (Sergei) Skripal came to the UK in an American-brokered (spy) exchange, having been pardoned by the president of Russia -- and to the extent that we assumed that had meaning," said Younger.

"That is not an assumption we will make again."

Skripal was included in a 2010 spy swap that followed the discovery in the United States of a Russian sleeper cell whose members included former model Anna Chapman.

He was pardoned by former president Dmitry Medvedev in the middle of a four-year span during which Putin served as prime minister and Russia's de facto leader.

Security analysts think Russia may have tried to kill him in retribution for his reportedly continuing cooperation with European intelligence agencies.

- 'Our own way' -

The legendary animosity between Moscow and London spies stretches back to the Cold War era.

Putin himself was a intelligence officer in the former East German city of Dresden in the years leading up to the Soviet Union's collapse.

Yet it is rare for the head of the MI6 to directly confront Kremlin leaders.

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Younger said he was focused on making sure Russia paid a price for any attacks on Britain high enough to ward them off in the future.

"Our intention is for the Russian state to conclude that, whatever benefits it thinks it is accruing from this activity, they are not worth the risk," he told students in a talk at his old university of St Andrews in Scotland

"We will do this in our own way, according to our laws, and our values," he said.

"We will be successful nonetheless, and I urge Russia or any other state intent on subverting our way of life not to underestimate our determination and our capabilities, or those of our allies."

Younger did not spell out what changes the MI6 was making in the wake of the Skripal incident.

He only referred obliquely to the development of a "fourth generation of espionage" that worked to counter foes who took advantage of the "blurred lines" of cyber security.

He added that Britain more broadly needs adjusting to a new political reality in which "power, money and politics is going east".

Younger also took pains to dismiss suggestions that Britain's capabilities would weaken once it breaks off from the European Union in March.

"We will always work with our sister agencies to strengthen our indispensable security ties in Europe," said Younger.

"We also work with other partners across the world, to disrupt terrorist activity and counter other serious threats -- but always on our terms, and based on our laws and our values as the United Kingdom."UKIP MEP Stuart Agnew (European Parliament)

Struggling UKIP is facing a fresh controversy after one of its elected members suggested deploying soldiers to deal with what he described as invasions of Europe by refugees.

UKIP is already in crisis over its direction under the leadership of Gerard Batten, with his predecessor Nigel Farage warning that the party risks becoming the new BNP.

Now MEP Stuart Agnew has enflamed the situation by raising the possibility of a military intervention against civilians fleeing across the Mediterranean.

EU Member States in the Mediterranean area are struggling with the influx of refugees. This mass illegal crossing of borders is essentially an invasion, he claimed in a written question to the European Commission.

MORE: UKIP has now lost 10 MEPs after Bours quietly left party

The east of England MEP added: Normally a country faced with an invasion would deploy troops to hold off such invasions.

Frontex, the EUs border agency, says illegal border crossings into the EU have fallen by 31% since this time last year and are on course to be at their lowest level since 2013.

But Agnew asked the commission: Taking into consideration issues of competence, has the Commission advised Member States to reinforce their borders using their armed forces when necessary?

Any such military intervention would have to have clearly defined rules of engagement. Has the Commission developed or issued such guidance to the Member States affected?

Gerard Battens association with EDL founder Tommy Robinson has thrown UKIP into turmoil (PA)

Agnews attitude was compared to that of a despotic regime by IMix, a group that works with refugees in the UK.

Spokesperson Alex Mitchelmore told Yahoo Finance UK: Many of the men, women and children who come to Europe to find refuge have been forced to flee their home country by despotic regimes who send soldiers to attack unarmed people.

It says a lot about Mr Agnew that he wants Europe to take the same approach. Thankfully, the majority of the public disagree, and support a fair and humane approach to people who come to Britain in search of safety.

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UKIPs latest migration controversy came after Batten survived a vote of no confidence at the weekend for hiring English Defence League founder Tommy Robinson as an adviser.

MORE: EDL founders job with UKIP leader poses security risk to European parliament, warns MEP

Battens association with Robinson has sparked a spate of resignations from the party by MEPs, leaving it with just 14 of the 24 it had elected in 2014.

Labour MEP Seb Dance has written to the president of the European parliament to warn that Robinsons role with Batten could be a potential security risk to the institution.

Agnew said he would have become the deputy of Anne Marie Waters, an anti-Muslim activist and associate of Robinson, had she won the 2017 UKIP leadership contest.

He has also previously been criticised for denying that humans are at fault for climate change and his prehistoric views on women in the workplace.

Speaking in the European parliament in 2013, he said: If you look at the people who get degrees more, women get them and they are getting the jobs in the work place, but for various reasons, they dont have the ambition to go right to the top because something gets in the way. Its called a baby.



KIEV, Ukraine (AP)  Ukraine's president announced a partial call-up of reservists for training amid tensions with Russia, saying Monday that the country needs to beef up its defenses to counter the threat of a Russian invasion.

The Kremlin dismissed the Ukrainian leader's statement as an "absurd" attempt to inflame tensions.

Ukraine has also accused Russia of blockading its ports on the Sea of Azov and urged Germany and other Western allies to boost their naval presence in the Black Sea to help deter Russia from further aggression.

Relations between the two neighbors have been strained following a Nov. 25 clash in which the Russian coast guard fired upon and seized three Ukrainian naval vessels and their crews off the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014 from Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko responded by introducing martial law for 30 days in the country's border areas and barring all Russian males aged 16 to 60 from entering the country, a move he said was needed to prevent Russia from assembling destabilizing forces in Ukraine.

Poroshenko said Monday that some reservists will be summoned for training as part of martial law and some military units will be redeployed.

"Ukraine is taking its own steps in response to the threat of a large-scale Russian invasion," he said.

Over the weekend, Poroshenko said Russia has deployed a large number of troops along its border with Ukraine and alleged that the Kremlin intends to push inland into Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, dismissed Poroshenko's claims as an "absurd attempt to foment tensions."

"The accusations against Russia have no basis whatsoever," he said.

Peskov also rejected Kiev's claim that Russia was blocking traffic to and from Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov, saying navigation has continued normally except for occasional breaks because of bad weather.

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The separatist conflict in Ukraine's eastern industrial heartland against Russia-backed rebels has taken a toll on the nation's economy, reducing the cargo flow through the Ukrainian ports of Mariupol and Berdyansk on the Sea of Azov. The naval clash further stoked tensions  and 24 Ukrainian seamen are still in Russian custody in Moscow.

Vitaliy Sinhur, a dock worker in Berdyansk, said the movement of ships has significantly ebbed.

Amid the tensions, the Russian military said its forces in occupied Crimea were conducting drills involving Bal and Bastion long-range anti-ship missile systems.

Ukraine's deputy defense minister, Anatoliy Petrenko, said the country is talking to its Western partners to respond to Russia's "escalatory actions."

The U.S. and its NATO allies have strongly urged Russia to free the Ukrainian vessels and the crews.

"There is no justification for this use of force," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters Monday. "Russia must release the Ukrainian sailors and ships. It must also allow freedom of navigation and unhindered access to Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov."

NATO foreign ministers are to discuss the incident later this week.

Stoltenberg added that NATO allies have helped modernize Ukraine's armed forces and have boosted their presence in the Black Sea over the last year.

Russia is adamant that the Ukrainian ships had entered its waters without permission, while Ukraine says its ships were operating in line with a 2003 treaty with Russia that gives both nations free movement in the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait.

In the Ukrainian port of Mariupol, Ukrainian border guard spokesman Artem Polyakov said tensions in the area were boiling.

"The Russian Federation is building up military forces in the Sea of Azov," he said.

Poroshenko said he tried to arrange a phone call with Putin to discuss the standoff but the Kremlin has refused.

Peskov said Monday that "no such conversation is planned."

___

Vladimir Isachenkov reported from Moscow. Lorne Cook in Brussels and Mstyslav Chernov in Mariupol, Ukraine contributed to this report.KIEV, Ukraine (AP)  Ukraine's president has promised the country's Orthodox Christian faithful they will be free to remain part of the Russian Orthodox Church after the creation of an independent Ukrainian church.

Amid deteriorating ties with Moscow, Kiev has been pushing for the creation of an autocephalous Ukrainian Orthodox Church that would be free of control from the Moscow Patriarchate.

The move would be a momentous step, splitting the world's largest Eastern Orthodox denomination and severely eroding the power and prestige of the Moscow Patriarchate.

"The state guarantees the constitutional right to freedom of religion, including for those who want to remain united with the Russian Orthodox Church," Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said Saturday night.

However, the Russian Orthodox Church said Sunday that more than 20 Orthodox priests have been summoned for questioning by Ukraine's SBU security service.

One priest, in particular, has drawn attention. The SBU is investigating the head of Kiev's Pechersk Monastery for "inciting hatred."

In a positive sign for Ukrainians who support breaking away from the Russian church, the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, the Istanbul-based institution that serves as a center of the global Eastern Orthodox faith, said Thursday it had drafted a charter for an independent Ukrainian church.

Moscow has protested the move furiously. After the patriarchate first signaled approval for a new Ukrainian church, the Moscow Patriarchate cut ties with Istanbul.Sydney (AFP) - Australia's under-pressure government received a double blow Monday from the United Nations and a leading doctors' group over harsh treatment of refugees on off-shore island camps.

In an unusual broadside, a top official for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees accused "bureaucrats and politicians" of overruling doctors and putting lives at risk at camps on Nauru and Manus.

Australia holds unauthorised migrants who try to reach the island continent by boat in "off-shore detention" -- part of a harsh policy designed to deter would-be asylum-seekers.

UNHCR's Catherine Stubberfield decried the policy as "sold too simplistically" and said changing it was now a matter of "basic human treatment and decency."

The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) on Monday also threw its voice behind those calling for the government to change course.

Around 160 people remain on the island of Nauru -- including women and children -- and it is believed as many as 600 men are still in transition centres on Manus after the Australian-run camp there was closed late last year.

The minority government of Prime Minister Scott Morrison has quietly agreed to transfer children off Nauru, but is under fierce pressure to close it completely.

Doctor and independent member of parliament Kerryn Phelps on Monday put forward legislation requiring the temporary transfer from Nauru or Manus of anyone assessed as needing medical treatment as well as the temporary transfer of all children and their families from Nauru.

Eyewitnesses -- including AFP journalists -- have reported a dire situation on Nauru, with families living under constant fear of loved ones committing suicide.

On Monday, Medecins Sans Frontieres also reported that almost a third of the people they had treated on Nauru before being expelled by the government in October had reported attempted suicide.

A dozen patients, the organisation said, had been diagnosed with "resignation syndrome" -- a condition that causes people to withdraw into themselves in an almost comatose state.

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David Isaacs of the RACP, a paediatrician who treated children on Nauru in 2015, said access to medical care "must be determined by a doctor  not a politician".

"There is a medical crisis in offshore detention," said Isaacs. "It is a crisis that is entirely preventable. The government can act to end it."

Polls show that a large number of Australians would like to bring the remaining children off Nauru, but are split on whether the broader population should be brought to Australia.

The tough offshore detention policy is popular with Morrison's right-wing base, which he needs to shore up dwindling support in parliament ahead of national elections due to be held by May.

Morrison has argued the policy deters people smugglers and saves lives.

"There are more medical professionals on Nauru, than there are children," he claimed last month.

But the latest volley from the UNHCR will only add to the pressure.

"Australia retains responsibility for those it has relocated under so-called 'offshore processing'," warned Stubberfield.

She suggested the government policy was partly responsible for the death of 24-year-old Hamid Khazaei, who died of sepsis contracted on Manus Island.

"Had he been evacuated to Australia within 24 hours of developing severe sepsis, Khazaei would have survived."Riyadh (AFP) - A UN plane will evacuate 50 wounded Huthi militants from Yemen's rebel-held capital Sanaa on Monday as a "confidence building measure" ahead of planned peace talks in Sweden, a Saudi-led military coalition said.

"A UN chartered plane will arrive at Sanaa international airport Monday to evacuate 50 wounded combatants... three Yemeni doctors and a UN doctor, from Sanaa to Muscat," a coalition spokesman said in a statement carried by the official Saudi Press Agency.

The fate of wounded rebels had been a stumbling block to the start of a previous round of aborted peace talks in September.

The coalition agreed to facilitate the medical evacuations at the request of UN envoy Martin Griffiths for "humanitarian reasons" and as a "confidence building measure", the spokesman added.

Huthi rebels on Thursday said they will attend UN-brokered peace talks in Sweden this week if guarantees to ensure they can leave home and return back are maintained.

Yemen's internationally recognised government, which is also backed by a Saudi-led coalition, has already said it would attend the planned talks in Sweden.

Griffiths has held talks separately in the past few days with officials from both sides as part of efforts to lay the ground work for the peace talks.

In September, a previous round of UN-led talks failed when the Huthis refused to travel to Geneva, accusing the world body of failing to guarantee their delegation's return to Sanaa or secure the evacuation of wounded rebels to Oman.

Previous talks broke down in 2016, when 108 days of negotiations in Kuwait failed to yield a deal and left rebel delegates stranded in Oman for three months.

According to UN figures, nearly 10,000 people have been killed since the coalition joined the conflict in 2015 to bolster Hadi, triggering what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

Rights groups fear the actual toll is far higher.Sanaa (AFP) - The UN's Yemen envoy visited rebel-held Sanaa on Monday as wounded insurgents were flown out of the capital for medical treatment, a key step towards bringing warring parties to the negotiating table in Sweden.

A UN source said efforts were being made to reopen Sanaa International Airport, closed for the past three years because of the war between the Iran-aligned Huthis and the Yemeni government backed by a Saudi-led coalition.

A UN-chartered flight left Sanaa with 50 wounded rebels on board and landed in Muscat, Oman's official ONA news agency reported.

The transfer was "in support of the efforts of the UN to prepare the ground for the negotiations planned in Sweden", ONA said on Twitter.

A UN source said the wounded had been evacuated in a "confidence-building measure" aimed at pushing ahead with negotiations between the Huthis and the Saudi-led coalition this month.

Huthi spokesman Mohamed Abdalsalam tweeted the rebels' appreciation of UN envoy Martin Griffiths for his "humanitarian effort that treats a small part of the Yemeni suffering caused by the closure of the airport and blockade".

Griffiths was "pleased to confirm" 50 injured Yemenis were to be treated on neutral ground in Muscat and "urged all Yemenis to work together in pursuit of peace and stability", according to the envoy's Twitter account.

The evacuation marked a key step in kickstarting stalled negotiations as world powers press for an end to the devastating conflict that has pushed Yemen to the brink of famine.

Saudi Arabia and its allies, who back Yemen's embattled President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, had agreed to allow for the 50 wounded combatants, 50 escorts and a team of Yemeni and UN doctors to be flown out to Muscat -- a condition set by the Huthis for negotiations.

Kuwait's Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled al-Jarallah told reporters that a Huthi delegation was set to leave Sanaa for Stockholm on Tuesday morning together with his country's ambassador to Yemen.

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The oil-rich Gulf emirate, which has been a mediator in the devastating conflict, hosted Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom for talks in Kuwait City on Monday.

- Talks to include airport -

The fate of wounded rebels had been a stumbling block to the start of a previous round of aborted peace talks in Geneva in September.

The rebels had said they would attend the talks in Sweden if they were guaranteed safe passage and the evacuations.

Journalists were banned from Sanaa airport in the hours leading up to the departure of the UN evacuation flight.

Wounded rebels were transported across the capital, controlled by the insurgents since 2014, in ambulances as they made their way to the long-defunct airport.

The proposed UN-brokered peace talks have been backed by both the rebels and the government and were expected to take place in Sweden this week.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, however, has played down the early December schedule and said he hoped talks would start "this year".

A UN source said the reopening of Sanaa airport was a priority at the next talks.

A UN panel of experts this year said the "effective closure" of Sanaa airport since 2015, when the Saudi-led alliance intervened in the Yemen war, constituted a violation of international humanitarian law.

- 'No excuses' -

The opposing sides have cautiously reiterated their willingness to attend negotiations.

Yemen's information minister, Moammer al-Eryani, said the government had agreed to the Sweden talks as a first step towards "facilitating negotiations" and to end "all excuses invoked by the coupists (rebels) to evade finding peace".

Huthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said the rebels were ready to hold talks "starting with a ceasefire" by the rival coalition, at a press conference broadcast on the insurgents' Al-Masirah television.

Iran also offered support on Monday, saying it was ready to cooperate with the international community to resolve the crisis.

Previous talks planned for September in Geneva failed to get under way as the Huthi delegation never left Sanaa, saying the United Nations could not guarantee their safe return.

Talks initially broke down in 2016, when 108 days of negotiations in Kuwait failed to yield a deal and left rebel delegates stranded in Oman for three months.

UN aid chief Mark Lowcock warned last week that Yemen was "on the brink of a major catastrophe".

His comments followed renewed deadly clashes between Huthi rebels and pro-government forces in the Red Sea port city of Hodeida, which is vital for the flow of humanitarian aid and controlled by the rebels.

The coalition spokesman said military operations in Hodeida were "ongoing" on Monday.

The UN has described Yemen as the world's worst humanitarian disaster, with at least 10,000 people killed since the coalition intervened.

Rights groups fear the actual toll is far higher.The US and China have imposed tariffs on billions of dollars in goods: AFP/Getty Images

Donald Trump has suggested he has no fear of imposing more tariffs on China at the end of a 90-day ceasefire in their ongoing trade war that has disrupted markets and kept investors up at night over the past year.

With just a month until yet another planned tariff increase, Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping agreed over dinner in Argentina at the annual G20 summit last week to a delay on any tax increases in hopes a lasting deal could be negotiated in that time.

Mr Trump said via Twitter on Tuesday that negotiations had started, but if no "real deal" with Beijing could be found he would impose more tariffs. hr then called himself "tariff man".

It remains unclear how much headway has actually been made in the negotiations, and the messages coming out of Washington and Beijing are anything but coordinated.

While Mr Trump said on Monday morning he managed to convince China to reduce tariffs on US car imports  a reduction that would be much needed good news for the American president after GM laid off thousands of workers last month  China has been much less straightforward on the topic, and has refused to confirm it had reduced its 40 per cent duty.

Whether the two countries can find a lasting truce and end the trade war that has simmered over the past year is anyones guess, but the two presidents have said they have instructed their economic teams to intensify talks.

Here is what you need to know about the trade war, how we got here, and what that means going forward.

Why are we seeing these tariffs now?

Mr Trump made China a major bogeyman during his 2016 campaign, insisting the country was taking advantage of the United States when it comes to trade, and what we are seeing is him making good on his promise to be strong on trade.

The tariffs we have seen in the past year come after an investigation by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) that determined that numerous acts, policies, and practices of the government of China related to technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation are unreasonable or discriminatory, and burden or restrict US commerce.

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More specifically, the Trump administration and the USTR report allege China distorts markets and has unfair intellectual property policies that harm American businesses.

The US, essentially, contends China has implemented unfair trading policies by forcing US companies to engage in joint ventures with Chinese companies to do business in the country, which opens the door for those companies to use, improve, or replicate US technologies.

In addition, the US contends the Chinese government does not adequately enforce or recognise US patents and the country discriminates against foreign technologies.

Those policies can have a pretty big impact, too, with the US losing out on an estimated $225bn (177bn) to $500bn (393bn) annually from intellectual property theft, according to the seven-month investigation by the USTR.

How big are these tariffs, and when did this start?

The most recent round of tariffs in September saw 10 per cent duties placed on an additional $200bn (157bn) in Chinese imports.

A USTR notice announcing those tariffs included a pledge to increase that rate to 25 per cent on 1 January, which has been temporarily halted as a result of the talks in Argentina.

Those tariffs came on top of taxes on $50bn (39bn) worth of goods that were imposed in July, and mostly covered high tech products. The USTR also announced in January a 30 per cent tax on Chinese made solar panels, and 20 per cent on Chinese washing machines brought into the US for sale.

The Chinese have not sat idly by, however, and has imposed tariffs on $110bn (86bn) of US goods that impact industries that could threaten Mr Trumps political support in the US. They have also threatened qualitative measures that could hurt US businesses operating in China.

What goods are being taxed?

The tariffs the US imposed on Chinese goods cover thousands of predominantly high tech goods. Those tariffs have impacted the price of TVs, solar panels, cosmetics, electronics, solar panels, beer, cars, and even clothing in the US.

Several major US retailers  including Walmart, Gap, and Coca-Cola  have announced the tariffs could force them to raise prices.

China, meanwhile, has imposed tariffs on goods like American aeroplanes, soybeans, whiskey, fruits and nuts, beer, and wines.

What comes next?

Following the agreement between Mr Trump and Mr Xi in Buenos Aires, the two countries have a 90-day period to find a lasting solution their disagreements.

Both sides have previously indicated that they have little interest in giving up any ground they do not have to, and US economic officials have repeatedly said that they believe the US economy is in a stronger place than Chinas. Those sorts of messages could indicate the US government has little intention of backing down at any time in the near future, and things could get a lot worse before anything gets better.

....I am a Tariff Man. When people or countries come in to raid the great wealth of our Nation, I want them to pay for the privilege of doing so. It will always be the best way to max out our economic power. We are right now taking in $billions in Tariffs. MAKE AMERICA RICH AGAIN  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 4, 2018

Regardless of the outcome of negotiations in the next 90 days, American consumers can likely look forward to higher prices as they finish up holiday shopping this month.Global stock markets are surging after the US and China agreed to a temporary trade truce. Photo: Horacio Villalobos/Getty Images

Here are the top business, market and economic stories you should be watching today in the UK, Europe and abroad:

Stocks surge on temporary US-China trade truce

Boom! Global stock markets were charging ahead on Monday after the US and China agreed to a short-term truce in their ongoing trade war.

Most European stock markets were rallying by more than 2% in morning trading, with auto giants and miners leading the way.

Shares in BMW (BMW.DE) and Mercedes-Benz manufacturer Daimler (DAI.DE) were surging by about 7% in early trading in Frankfurt. Shares in mining firm Antofagasta (ANTO.L) were up by 8% in London, followed close behind by Anglo American (AAL.L) and Glencore (GLEN.L).

Asian markets also posted strong gains, with both the Shanghai Composite (000001.SS) and Hang Seng (^HSI) in China rising by 2.6%.

US stock futures were indicating the key benchmark indices would shoot up by about 2% to 3% after the opening bell.

US president Donald Trump and Chinese president Xi Jinping brokered a trade war truce on Saturday at a G20 dinner, agreeing to halt additional tariffs on one another as they pursue fresh trade talks over the next 90 days.

Trump also said overnight on Twitter that China agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the US.

This outcome seems to be an optimistic one from the two leaders and more than what was priced into markets beforehand, meaning that this is enough to boost sentiment and risk-on trade, noted Hussein Sayed, chief market strategist at FXTM.

China has agreed to reduce and remove tariffs on cars coming into China from the U.S. Currently the tariff is 40%.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 3, 2018





Qatar leaving OPEC

Qatar said on Monday it would leave OPEC in January to focus on cementing its position as the worlds top liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter.

Story continues

The nation is one of the smallest oil producers in the multi-nation oil cartel and is locked in a diplomatic dispute with the groups de facto leader, Saudi Arabia. It said the move to leave OPEC was not driven by politics.

For me to put efforts and resources and time in an organisation that we are a very small player in and I dont have a say in what happens  practically it does not work, so for us its better to focus on our big growth potential, said the countrys energy minister Saad al-Kaabi.

Oil prices were shooting higher on Monday morning, with WTI crude futures (CL=F) up by about 4% to trade around $53 and Brent crude (BZ=F) was rising by a similar amount to $62.

Qatar still plans to attend the groups meeting on Thursday and Friday this week. It has been a member of OPEC for 57 years.





Shell to set new environmental targets

Royal Dutch Shell (RDSB.L) caved in to growing investor pressure over climate change on Monday, announcing plans to set short-term targets to reduce its carbon footprint.

Competitors BP (BP.L) and Total (TOT, FP.PA) have already set short-term targets, but Shells CEO Ben van Beurden had previously resisted setting hard goals, saying it would be foolhardy to expose Shell to legal challenges.

But following discussions with investors, the Anglo-Dutch oil and gas giant said that from 2020 it will set three- to five-year targets every year which will include specific net carbon footprint targets.

Shareholders criticised Shell for setting long-term ambitions to halve its emissions of carbon dioxide by 2050, which lacked binding targets for implementation.

Shell stock was rising by 3% on Monday morning.

Ted Baker to investigate culture of hugs

Shares in Ted Baker (TED.L) are falling by about 8% after an online campaign claiming to represent over 200 employees called on the company to end forced hugging and a culture that leaves harassment unchallenged.

The British fashion chain said it would investigate claims against chief executive and founder Ray Kelvin relating to his habit of hugging business colleagues.

There was no direct comment from Kelvin himself, who launched the company in 1988.

Ray greets many people he meets with a hug, be it a shareholder, investor, supplier, partner, customer or colleague, the company said in a statement. Hugs have become part of Ted Bakers culture, but are absolutely not insisted upon, it added.

With files from ReutersSanaa (AFP) - Wounded Yemeni rebels were flown out of Sanaa on a UN charter flight Monday for medical treatment in Oman, an airport source told AFP, a critical step towards planned peace talks.

The source said the flight had taken off at 6:00 pm (1500 GMT) carrying 50 wounded rebels, their escorts and a team of doctors.

A UN source confirmed that wounded rebels had been evacuated from the Yemeni capital in what was a "confidence-building measure" aimed at pushing ahead with negotiations between Huthi rebels and a rival Saudi-led military coalition this month.

UN envoy Martin Griffiths landed in Sanaa on Monday for talks with the rebels.

The fate of wounded Huthis had been a stumbling block to the start of a previous round of aborted peace talks in Geneva in September, when the rebel delegation refused to leave Sanaa for the scheduled negotiations.

The Huthis, who are linked to Iran, have said they will now attend the talks in Sweden if they are guaranteed safe passage.

The United Nations has described Yemen as the world's worst humanitarian disaster, with at least 10,000 people killed since the Saudi-led coalition intervened in 2015 to bolster the embattled government.

Rights groups fear the actual toll is far higher.

The war and failing economy have pushed 14 million people, roughly half of Yemen's population, to the brink of famine.Students of the Academy Charter School sing Smadar Shir's songs in Hebrew

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African-American, Latin and Jewish students at the Harlem Hebrew Language Academy Charter School in New York brought Israeli writer and poet Smadar Shir to tears during her recent visit, singing a medley they had prepared with their teachers from a selection of children's songs she had written.

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Shir visited the school as part of the "Community Project" delegationa joint initiative of the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and the Gesher NGOto better understand the Jewish community in the United States.

African-American, Latin and Jewish students of the Harlem Hebrew Language Academy Charter School in

As she entered their classroom, the children started singing the song "Shalom," which was written by her and composed by Israeli entertainer Moshe Datz. A surprised and moved Shir joined in with the children, singing "No Celebration Without a Cake" and "My life," both of which were also composed by Datz.

The Harlem Hebrew Language Academy Charter School, located in the heart of Harlem, serves hundreds of students, most of whom are not Jewish but study Hebrew. The school is supported by the State of New York. The national office of the school, Hebrew Public, is supported by private philanthropy, including some Jewish donors.

The school is open to all residents of the neighborhood regardless of religion, race or gender. While the school teaches Hebrew and Israeli culture, it does not teach Jewish or religious content. Hebrew is being taught in small groups by three teachers in a classroom.

Harlem Hebrew Language Academy Charter School in New York

During the trip, the delegation met with Jews from various communities, particularly with the students and the young leadership in each community. In addition, the delegation met with Dani Dayan, the Israeli Consul General in New York, and with members of the Jewish Federations in Boston and New York.

Gesher Executive Director Ilan Geal-Dor said that the purpose of the visit of the Israeli delegation to the Diaspora is to familiarize Israelis with Diaspora Jews.

"Unfortunately, there is a growing distance and gap, and we are trying to build a new bridge by introducing Israelis to the Jewish communities in the Diaspora," he noted.

"Such a conceptual bridge can only happen if we meet, talk to one another and build people to people relationships," he added.The second installment of $15 million in Qatar funds is expected to be delivered to 30,000 Hamas officials in the Gaza Strip this week. Post office branches across the strip are preparing to distribute the money on Tuesday, according to credible sources.

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The money is supposed to enter the strip through the Erez border crossing, with Israel's approval. Qatari officials headed by the Qatari Ambassador to Gaza Mohammed Al-Emadi in Gaza will supervise the money distribution.

Alongside Gaza's civil servants, the Qatari funding will also go to families of Palestinians killed or wounded during clashes with the IDF on the Gaza border since March.

Palestinian civil servants receive salaries (Photo: AFP)

Last month, amid Egyptian mediation aimed at reaching a long-term agreement between Israel and Hamas, three large leather suitcases containing $15 million in cash entered the coastal enclave, after arriving in a Qatari executive jet. It seems the cash infusion will take a similar route this time as well.

This time, however, both Israel and Hamas have decided to keep the money transfer low key in the wake of the public criticism that was sparked by the first transfer. An Israeli official went as far as saying that photographing the money suitcases would not be allowed.

The salaries paid to Hamas public servants and the public outcry that followed in Israel was one of the reasons given by former defense minister Avigdor Lieberman for his resignation. While National Security Advisor Meir Ben Shabat insisted Israel is supervising the money transfer to ensure it reaches the right recipients, Lieberman claimed the funds would get to terror elements in the strip.

And indeed, the first money transfer was plagued by irregularities, making it impossible for Israel to guarantee that the money reached the right recipients. Furthermore, on the same day as the Qatari money transfer, Hamas's military leadership also received salaries, making it unclear which funds were transferred and to whom.

Moreover, the criteria for families eligible for Qatari funds after their relative was killed or hurt during clashes with the IDF are not clear enough, with Qatar also handing out money to "unemployment academics" whose identity is unknown.

Rockets fired from Gaza at southern Israel (Photo: AFP)

Following the first installment of Qatari money funds delivery, Hamas fired some 500 rockets at Israel. This weekend, Hamas intends to "celebrate" the anniversary of the first intifada that broke out on December 9, 1987. Hamas dubbed the planned weekend protests along the Gaza border as "The big Intifada of stones."

Israel is examining whether the terror organization is seeking to fan the flames on the border to divert the focus from the fact that some of its demands, such as expanding the Gaza's fishing zone, have not been met.The Israeli Special Forces involved in a recent botched Gaza Strip raid had posed as medical personnel from one of the aid groups operating in the coastal enclave, British newspaper The Independent reported Sunday.

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The operation saw an IDF officer killed and another wounded, leading to a massive wave of rocket fire on southern Israeli communities. Seven Palestinians were also killed when the November 11 operation went wrong, and the IDF unit was forced to call in air support to help them flee.

An Independent journalist who went into the Gaza Strip obtained new information by interviewing Hamas members as well as residents living in the Khan Yunis area, where the incident had taken place.

Remains of the vehicle used by the force after it was bombed by the IAF (Photo: Reuters)

Furthermore, the Israeli troops "were posing as NGO workers, there were women in the car as well. They used this to justify why they were stealing into Gaza and had a story prepared should they be questioned," Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem told The Independent.

Remains of the vehicle used by the force after it was bombed by the IAF

Another Hamas official, who was not identified in the report, said the Israelis "told the fighters at the checkpoint that they were delivering patients back from clinics to their homes and had a wheelchair in the back of the van. They presented their ID cars but the (fighters) manning the checkpoint were suspicious as their accents and voices did not match the areas where they said they were from."

The Israeli forces were reportedly held at the checkpoint until the Hamas commander in Khan Yunis, Nour Baraka , was called to the scene and decided to take them in for questioning at a Hamas facility. It was then, according to the report, that the IDF troops opened fire.

Local residents told The Independent that Baraka knew the family of the woman the force claimed to have come to aid. He called the family and confirmed she had already passed away.

A Hamas official told the British paper the Israeli force was in Gaza to replace listening and surveillance devices that had been laid before.The fourth and current government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was established on May 14, 2015. During the coalition negotiation process, the prime minister made far-reaching concessions to Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon (Kulanu), Education Minister Naftali Bennett (Bayit Yehudi) and to the ultra-Orthodox parties. In return, he insisted on one thing: to serve as communications minister as well as prime minister.

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In addition, the coalition will commit, in advance, to supporting any decision he makes as the minister of communications. Netanyahu did not insist on the coalition's commitment to other issues like the Greater Israel, national security, the preservation of democratic values or the sanctification of the Jewish nation.

Shaul Elovitch and Prime Minister Netanyahu (Photo: Yuval Hen)

Netanyahu was only interested in the media. He was obsessed, according to people who participated in the negotiation process. He behaved like a child who had access to all the toys in the store, but he wanted just one toythe one he was not allowed to touch

The Ministry of Communications was born out of the Ministry of Postal Services: a modest, essentially technical, regulatory work, which experts committees recommended closing down repeatedly in order to establish a clerk-run authority instead. Since during the negotiation process there is always someone who is left without a portfolio of any kindthe ministry wasn't shut down. It became an office for losers.

The prime minister wanted to be in command of the Ministry of Communications not because he wanted to run it, but because he wanted to even the score. The enemy is the media. The key is to conquer it by force.

What Sheldon Adelson did to the print media, would be done to websites and television channels. Shaul Elovitch, the chairman and main shareholder of Bezeq will be the first: his news site will take order from the prime minister's residence on Balfour Street. If he behaves, he will benefit from the ministry's regulatory powers. Then others will follow. Let every tycoon and oligarch knowthose who behaveenjoy the pleasures of government.

In his fourth term, Netanyahu chose to be a vigilantethe poor man's Charles Bronson (American actor who was often cast as a vigilante in films with revenge-oriented plot linesed.), if you will. The opposite happened to Ariel Sharon: Sharon was at peace when he took office. He wanted to charm his opponents, not to break them. Netanyahu took office in a rageobsessive and seeking revenge.

Netanyahu at a Likud Hanukkah event (Photo: MX1)

At the time, I wrote that Netanyahu's insistence on taking on the communications portfolio must end with a State Comptroller investigation, if not with a police investigation. The writing was on the wall: government regulation overpowered by personal agendas; the dismissal of a professional CEO in favor of a political trustee who lacked skills; the appointment of lawyersthe prime minister's cousinswho specialize in communications; and a controlling shareholder of a large communications company that suddenly becomesalong with his wifea close friend.

I never met Elovitch. People who worked with him in the past claim he's not unpleasant, but rather a positive individual who bit off far more than he could chew. Then came Netanyahu and promised to approve all of his requests, and give him a gift that would make him the richest man in the country. It was an offer that could not be refused.

Yes, the timing of the police recommendations' publication was a bit off. "How can you do such a thing on the eve of the holiday," Minister of Social Equality Gila Gamliel (Likud) exclaimed Sunday. Hanukkah, which is considered a minor holiday in our tradition, suddenly became the most sacred Jewish holiday. "When you will have prepared the slaughter for the blaspheming foe," Netanyahu's Likud followers chanted.

Yes, the outgoing Police Commissioner Roni Alsheikh gave an unsuccessful interview to Ilana Dayan, as far as he's concerned. The claim that the prime minister had police investigators followed hasn't been proven. However, One mustn't forget what Netanyahu did to Alsheikh: he appointed him, at first, and then, upon realizing that Alsheikh was faithful to his job, and not to Netanyahu, he launched an insult-driven campaign to humiliate the police commissioner. Alsheikh did not take office to incriminate the premier. Netanyahu brought this upon himself.

Alsheikh (L) and Mandelblit (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky/EPA)

Yes, police investigators' involvement in the relationship between news sources and media is extremely problematic, to say the least. The media in a democratic country cannot operate properly without having access to sources. There is an element of give and take in this relationship; we mustn't let it become a criminal offense.

All these reservations melt away when placed against the serious findings of the joint Tax Authority and police investigation. Elovitch was not a media person and Netanyahu was not his source. If the police are right, they made a profitable dealcashbox for flatteryNIS 1 billion for positive news coverage. The deal felt so natural that it did not even occur to them that it was bribery.

Nevertheless, the police recommendations are not the end of the story. Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit and the State Prosecutor's Office, who were deeply involved in the investigation, will not be able to escape its conclusions. The police have set a high standard for Mandelblit, but how he will deal with it remains to be seen.German President lights a candle X

Berlin lights a candle

Standing in front of Berlins Brandenburg Gate, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier lit the first Hanukkah Candle on Sunday evening. Rabbi Yehuda Teichtal, the Chabad Rabbi of the Jewish Community of Berlin, couldnt hide his excitement: its incredible that 80 years after Kristallnacht, where Hitler stood and called for the annihilation of the Jews, the German president honors the community with lighting a candlea candle that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.

The menorah at the Brandenburg Gate (Photo: Rafael Herlich)

Steinmeier denounced anti-Semitism in his remarks at the event and said he is proud of the bustling Jewish life in todays Germany.

Nes gadol hayah sham (a great miracle happened there), said the president in Hebrew, but today, nes gadol haya po (a great miracle happened here), in Brandenburg Gate.

Brandenburg Gatethen and now

This is especially moving for me, said Rabbi Teichtal. My great-grandfather was murdered in Auschwitz. My father survived, and when he heard Im going to work in Germany in 1996, he was horrified. Later, he said he feels this is the real vengeance against the Nazisbut he never came to visit me here.

Wellington lights the first candle around the globe

New Zealands capital, Wellington, lit the first Hanukkah candle when it was still noontime in Israel.

Rabbi Ariel Tal and his wife Racheli, of Straus-Amiel Ohr Torah Stone, joined Chabad representatives, an Israel-loving Christian spiritual leader and 30 Israeli backpackers to light a candle.

A Hanukkah celebration in rural India

Bnei Menashe light the first candle

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In Manipur, a state in Indias northeast, the Haokip family lit a candle with several dozens of the Bnei Menashe communit, who believes they are the descendants of the Menashe Tribe that was deported from the land of Israel with the nine other tribes by the Assyrian king over 2,700 years ago.

Bnei Menashe celebrate in Manipur (Photo: Shavei Israel)

Community members speak Kuki and other local Sino-Tibetan dialects. Some live across the border in western Burma and Bangladesh. The Shavei Israel organization has been working for years to help Bnei Menashe make Aliyah and assist them in finding their place in Israel.

(Photo: Shavei Israel)

This is just like the heroic story of the Maccabees, who did everything to preserve their Jewish identity, said Rabbi Michael Freund, founder and chairman of Shavei Israel. They have managed to stay Jewish despite great challenges over the years. We hope this is their last Hanukkah in India.

Bariloche lights a candle in the far south

Chabad get ready for the candle lighting event ( :  )

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Hours after the candles in Tel Aviv had burned out, Chabad members and Israeli backpackers lit Hanukkah candles in Argentinas Barilochethe most southern Hanukkah candles to be lit around the globe.

Chabad celebrates far south (Photo: Shalom Weber)

Between icebergs and national parksIsraeli mochileros bring Hanukkah lights to surprising places. Chabads Car Menorah will travel to the most remote regions around here throughout the holiday, said Rabbi Boaz Klein. Well make it to the port where the ferries leave for Antarctica.

Israeli backpackers at Bariloche

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Hanukkah candles in Cairo

Israeli Ambassador in Cairo David Govrin and the entire embassy team celebrated Hanukkah in the Meir Biton Synagogue in the al-Ma'adi neighborhood of the Egyptian capital. Foreign ambassadors and members of the citys Jewish community attended.

This is an exciting event and it takes place at this unique synagogue, which was built in 1934 at the height of the citys Jewish community, in the luxurious al-Maadi neighborhood, said Govrin.

Hanukkah in Egypt

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Chabad lights menoras from Bangkok to Moscow

Celebratory candle lighting took place across the globe with Chabad representatives leading the major events. Rabbi Menachem Lazar from Rome lit Italys central menorah, while Rabbi Israel Lieberman led the candle lighting in Hong Kong, with hundreds of curious locals coming to see what the holiday is about.

Rome lights the first candle

In Cyprus, Rabbi Zeev Raskin lit candles in Larnaca. In Ukraine, a country where anti-Semitism is rampant, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Wilhelm led the candle lighting in the Carpathian regions Uzhgorod. In Bangkok, the candle lighting was followed by a party, attended by emissary Rabbi Nehemia Wilhelm.

Hanukkah at the Red Square

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In Russia, where Chabads Rebe Joseph Isaac Schneersohn was arrested for teaching Judaism in 1927, the candle lighting ceremony took place in Moscows Red Square.

Jerusalem lights up for Hanukkah

In Jerusalem, a candle lighting ceremony took place at the Western Wall, where Chief Rabbi David Lau lit a candle in the mens prayer section and the outgoing Police Commissioner Roni Alsheikh lit the menorah at the Western Wall Plaza. Hanukkah is the Jewish people's spiritual independence day, said Alsheikh.

Rabbi Lau lights a candle (Photo: the Western Wall Heritage Foundation)

Outgoing Police Commissioner Roni Alsheikh at the Western Wall (Photo: the Western Wall Heritage Foundation)

Three years ago, when I started my term, I reminded us all that after the Maccabees won, there were still wars that came our way, said Alsheikh. History repeats itself, I said then. Independence is something that needs to be maintained.

Of all weapons, the most ancient onekniveswas what threatened the Jewish independence, Alsheikh continued. And then, the citys keepers, the Israel Police, brought back the peace. Im excited to see this plaza full, because the people of Israel trust the police, he said, referencing the numerous stabbing attacks that took place in and around the Old City since October 2015.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels later on Monday, the Prime Minister's Office said in a statement. It said the meeting was arranged last week and that "developments in the region" would be discussed, although it did not provide details.

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The prime minister will be accompanied by the head of the Mossad spy agency, the Israeli national security adviser and his military attache.

Netanyahu and Pompeo's meeting, which was pushed up, is reminiscent of the meetings former prime minister Ehud Olmert held with US administration officials in Washington before bombing the nuclear reactor in Syria in 2007.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo (L) and Prime Minister Netanyahu

Netanyahu and Pompeo will likely discuss the quick establishment of Iran and Hezbollah's high-precision guided missile factories in Lebanon, as preparation for a possible Israeli action to thwart these efforts.

Netanyahu will probably present the Americans with the facts to gain US support in case Israel chooses to act, which could lead to a complaint against the Jewish State at the United Nations Security Council.

Satellit images of Hezbollah missile factory (Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit)

One can assume that Pompeo will promise Netanyahu to update President Donald Trump and US National Security Advisor John Bolton on the matter, adding a favorable recommendation to assist Israel in the international arena by giving Iran a "final warning," even before Israel decides to act.

It could be that the announcement on the meeting in Brussels (that could have remained confidential) is Israel's way of signaling to Lebanon and Iran that it is planning to act, maybe in an effort to avoid the need for such action.

Israel might also want the Americans to put pressure on Beirut, as the US has considerable influence over LebanonWashington supplies the Lebanese armies with weapons, and the Americans are also mediating between Israel and Lebanon in the dispute on oil drilling rights in the Mediterranean Sea.

However, the timing of the meeting is problematic from an Israeli standpoint. If the prime minister orders action in Lebanon, Syria or both after the police announced Sunday morning that there is sufficient evidence to indict him in Case 4000, he would be accused of doing so in an effort to divert the public's attention from his legal woes and postpone the attorney general's decision on whether to indict him. Netanyahu would be accused of sacrificing IDF soldiers on the altar of his political survival.

With a possible indictment hovering over his head, Netanyahu will have a hard time reaching a decision, knowing that no matter whether he instructs the IDF to act in Syria and Lebanon or not, his opponents would slam him for doing it out of selfish interests. To avoid such criticism, the prime minister would have to receive a definitive approval from the Security Cabinet to everything he does as prime minister and defense minister.

Missiles flying over the town of Kiswah, south of Damascus

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On Thursday, the Syrian news agency SANA reported that the regime's air force continues to repel Israeli "aggression" over southern Syria and that its air defenses have downed several "hostile targets" that were flying over the town of al-Kiswah, south of Damascus, a home to military bases only 50 kilometers away from the Israeli border. The IDF Spokesperson's Office denied this report.

Russia's RIA news agency cited a Syrian security source as saying that the "Syrian air defense forces shot down an Israeli war plane and four missiles." In addition, Syrian state television reported that "the Israeli attack did not achieve its goals because the hostile targets were shot down."

Another Syrian news agency claimed that the sites belonged to Iranian militias, but this report is yet to be confirmed.

Boeing 747 aircraft in Beirut

The attack, the first Syria has admitted to since Assads forces accidentally shot down a Russian intelligence aircraft following an Israeli missile strike on Latakia in September, occurred several hours after a Boeing 747 aircraft belonging to the Iranian cargo airline Fars Air Qeshm flew directly from Tehran to Beirut, reportedly carrying weapon shipments to Hezbollah.Documents uncovered by the Israel Police during its investigation into Case 4000, also known as the Bezeq-Walla corruption affair, led to the recommendation to indict Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu , Ynet has learned.

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The Israel Police announced Sunday that there is sufficient evidence to indict Netanyahu and his wife Sara for bribery, fraud and breach of trust in Case 4000, which deals with suspected corruption tied to telecommunications giant Bezeq and the Walla! News website.

The prime minister is suspected of taking bribes and acting in a conflict of interest by promoting regulations worth hundreds of millions of dollars to Bezeq and its then-majority shareholder Shaul Elovitch. In return, the prime minister allegedly received favorable coverage on Walla! News, which is owned by Bezeq.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Shaul Elovitch (Photo: Marc Israel Sellem, Orel Cohen)

Police have already recommended indicting Netanyahu on corruption charges in two other cases . One involves accepting gifts from billionaire friends, and the second revolves around alleged offers of advantageous legislation for a newspaper in return for positive coverage.

All three cases now await the decision of Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who is the only one authorized to order the investigation or indictment of a sitting prime minister.

Shaul Elovitch, who controlled both Bezeq and the satellite TV company Yes separately, sought to merge the two companies. At the time, Yes was owned by both Bezeq and Elovitch privately through the Eurocom Group, with each side holding 50 percent of the company. As part of the merger, Elovitch sold his private shares in Yes to Bezeq, making over NIS 1 billion ($269 million) from the deal.

At first, the Communications Ministry under Minister Gilad Erdan placed obstacles in the way of the merger, but after the 2015 elections Netanyahu decided to hold onto the communications portfolio, replaced director-general Avi Berger with Shlomo Filber another suspect in the case who later turned state's witness and later approved the Bezeq-Yes merger. According to the police, this approval was in return for positive coverage of the Netanyahu couple in Walla! News, which Elovitch owns.

Shlomo Filber (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

The police claim that "Netanyahu acted according to Elovitch's will on the merger," backing it with what has been referred to as the "golden evidence": a detailed document from The Anti-Trust Authority about the merger, following which Elovitch asked for an urgent meeting with Netanyahu in order to instruct him on how to act.

Nir Hefetz, the prime minister's confidant who later also turned state's witness, was sent to the Prime Minister's Residence on Balfour Street in Jerusalem to deliver the document to Netanyahu, allegedly telling the prime minister that Elovitch wishes to meet with him urgently to discuss the Bezeq-Yes merger. Hefetz allegedly left Netanyahu the document, and a meeting between Netanyahu and Elovitchwhich did not appear on the prime minister's official public schedulewas held shortly thereafter.

Nir Hefetz (Photo: Reuters)

While the prime minister's official schedule showed a different meeting taking place at the residence, police suspect Elovitch was brought in through a side-door to meet with Netanyahu.

Elovitch refused to comment on the meeting in his police questioning. Netanyahu did not deny such a meeting took place, but told investigators the two did not discuss the Bezeq-Yes merger.

In addition to the document that prompted the meeting, police also tracked the location of Elovitch's cellphone, showing he was present at the official residence at the time of the alleged meeting.

"The objective evidence we have in this case is strong," an official with knowledge of the investigation said. "We also have testimonies from objective witnesses and strong evidence about the existence of the meeting and its content."

Attorney General Mandelblit was persuaded to launch an investigation into Netanyahu and Elovitch's alleged quid-pro-quo relationship after receiving a 26,446-lines-long Excel report prepared by the Israel Securities Authority, which details the thousands of phone call recordings, text messages, and emails collected by Walla! News CEO Ilan Yeshua as well as the documents provided to investigators by Filber and other witnesses.

Prime Minister Netanyahu attacked the police on Sunday night, saying, "the release of the recommendations (to indict) on the last day of the police commissioner's tenure proves what I've been saying from day one: This is a rigged game."A senior Hezbollah source said on Monday neither the group nor Iranian positions in Syria had been struck last week during what Syrian state media had reported as an attack south of Damascus.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors the war in Syria, said Israel carried out a missile attack in the area last Thursday evening. Israel has not said whether it conducted the attack and Syrian state media did not identify who carried it out.A Gaza military court sentenced six people to death by hanging for "collaboration" with Israel, authorities in the strip said on Monday.

In addition, the court convicted 14 people in total of collaborating with Israel.The world's largerst menorah (:  )

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One of the worlds biggest Hanukkah menorahs, measuring 11 meters tall and 56 meters wide, was erected on top of the Hadar Mall in Jerusalem, where it can be seen from any spot around the capital.

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We did a thorough examination, and theres no bigger menorah around. There was one in Tel Aviv in 2013, but it was smaller than this one. We wanted a Guinness world record but we were too latemaybe next year, said the malls CEO Eyal Scoza.

A menorah that can be seen from every spot in the city (Photo: Eli Mendelbaum)

The menorahs construction took ten days and included a team of 110 people, mostly mall employees. Its made of six tons of metal and covered in a fabric lined with LED lights. The mall representatives refused to comment on the project's cost.

On Sunday, Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Leon and the citys Chief Rabbi Aryeh Stern lit a candle at the record breaking menorah. I stand here excited before a Jerusalemite audience that came here to celebrate a holiday that unites all of ussecular, religious and ultra-Orthodox, said Leon.

Weve come to Israel to establish a Jewish state, and we have the privilege to light Hanukkah candles in our own country, said Rabbi Stern. Our joy is greater than that of all previous generations, who lit candles in foreign lands. May we be blessed with security, peacefulness, health, and a good, kind and modest leadership, said Stern.Be'er Sheva's District Court rejected Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish's tort claim against the Defense Ministry for the incident in which his niece and three daughters were killed during Operation Cast Lead in 2009.

Two shells were fired at the house of a Palestinian facility in Jabalia, killing Abuelaish's daughters and niece and wounding others.

Abuelaish sued the state, claiming his house did not pose a danger to the IDF force that was stationed several kilometers from there, and that there was not any operational justification for the shooting.The State Comptroller's report, which was published on Sunday, reveals that local authorities and emergency services didnt implement the lessons learned from the 2010 Mount Carmel Forest Fire, in which 44 people were killed, some 17,000 evacuated from their homes, and 25 dunams of forest were scorched.

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The report, composed by retired judge Yosef Shapira, addresses the fire preparedness and conduct of local authorities during the five consecutive days of fires that wreaked havoc throughout the country in November 2016.

2010 Mount Carmel Forest Fire

According to the report, 97% of the fires victims' claims have been processed, and NIS 260 million, out of the compensation fund, were transferred to the fires' victims.

According to the comptroller, the 2016 spate of fires was the largest and most expensive wave of fires in Israel's history in terms of damage done to property and the environment. The fires consumed more than 10,000 acres (41,000 dunams) of land and about 1,900 homes were damaged. The damages and costs of managing the disaster amounted to at least NIS 647 million.

Haifa, 2010 (Photo: AFP)

The report was published, unintentionally or not, exactly eight years after the Mount Carmel Forest Fire. In the wake of the disaster, the comptroller published a special report in which he hoped that "the cost of loss of life paid by 44 young men and women will help prevent similar disasters in the future." However, he added, "applying the lessons learned from the tragedy is but a small comfort."

The report's findings prove that local authorities and emergency services did not implement the lessons learned from the Carmel Forest Fire and failed to make the necessary adjustments dictated by the previous Comptroller's report.

Among the failures described in the review, it seems that although forest fire protection regulations were formulated in 2014, in the absence of agreement between government ministries, they have not yet been approved. This means that the National Fire & Rescue Authority cannot direct local authorities to prepare for fire prevention or supervise the implementation of its provisions.

Firefighters in Neve Shalom, 2016 (Photo: Gil Yohanan)

In addition, the comptroller warned about the authorities' failures in dealing with high-rise buildings' fires, which may turn into "death traps" for the buildings' residents. The installment of fire alarms and extinguishing systems is mandatory in these buildings, but no instructions have been set regarding their maintenance and inspection.

Moreover, significant failures were found in the local authorities' preparedness for large-scale fires. Among other things, local authorities failed to devise a broad fire defense plan. Some local authorities didn't prepare buffer zones and escape routes, failed to set up sufficient water infrastructures and didn't practice their emergency fire protocol. Additionally, the report reveals that due to lack of permits, some fire and rescue personnel were denied access to fire areas, and as a result, were unable to carry out their duties properly.

"The draft version of the fire protection regulations has been completed several years ago, but has yet to be implemented. The minister asked the comptroller to get involved in this issue.

Fire safety regulations in high-rise buildings must be set and maintenance and inspection supervision must be routinely administered. In addition, the Ministry of Public Security's emergency department is currently formulating and implementing a national emergency plan for dealing with a multi-faceted wave of fires," the Ministry of Public Security said in a statement.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed his upcoming meeting with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels, Belgium, on Monday.

"We will discuss recent developments in our region and the steps we are taking together to curb the aggression of Iran and its allies. Other matters will be discussed as well."

Netanyahu described the meeting as important, "we are in regular contact with our American friends," he added.Hello there Mickey Gitzin, the CEO of the New Israel Fund. Three days ago CNN fired the channel's commentator Marc Lamont Hill for calling to free Palestine "from the river to the sea," which is an anti-Semitic call to destroy Israel. You've said many times, not only publicly but during our private conversations as well, that you oppose funding those who hold similar views. You've declared yourself a Zionist.

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We had, and still have, our differences, but I'm convinced you meant every word you said. This is the reason why I defended the New Israel Fund when I felt the criticism leveled at your organization was unfair. The thing is, Gitzin my friend, that in the past, as well as now, the fund has shown support for its senior memberswhose opinions are no less disturbing than those of Hill. Let me present you with several examples.

Mickey Gitzin, the CEO of the New Israel Fund (:  )

Human Rights Defenders Fund (HRDF), which is financed by the New Israel Fund, called Israel "racist," "murderous," and a "temporary Jewish Apartheid state." It also supports the idea of liquidating Israel, under the guise of the "right of return." The HRDF goes one step further and calls, as does Hill, to end the occupation "from the river to the sea."

In the past, I drew your attention to the Combatants for Peace NGO, which are waging an online campaign that focuses on supporting the "right of return." Both you and me know, Mr. Gitzin, that we are talking about the denial of Israel's right to exist. They are not alone, as some of the B'Tselem heads have declared their support for the "right of return," as well.

And the parade goes on. B'Tselem's public council member claimed that Israel is "worse than the Nazi regime," and that "it is not enough to only speak of the monster, something should also be done."

If this is not incitement to murder, I do not know what is. The Yesh Din NGO employs a blogger who wrote that Israel is a "murderous Jewish theocracy," and therefore "the Jewish State must be destroyed with blood and fire in order to allow its reestablishment as a democratic country." The fund also supports Breaking The Silence organization.

In addition, two out of its three board members support imposing international sanctions on Israel. The third board member published an article titled "He, who is not prepared to kill civilians is exceptional." The Israelis, in his opinion, are not human beings. They're a bunch of bloodthirsty creatures. Also, the retired female CEO recently published an article that is basically an expression of support for the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement. This is the evil spirit that prevails there, and you are funding it.

In the past, the fund's deputy director told the US Embassy that she wouldn't worry if Israel would no longer be a Jewish state, because that way the country would become more democratic." "Israel is responsible for humanitys greatest atrocities ... Israel has adhered to the Nazi values," she also wrote. However, even after uttering these insults, she was promoted to a senior position in another foundation financed by the fund.

Nevertheless, the fund has proven in the past that it can distance itself from anti-Israeli elements. For instance, the fund withdrew its support for the Coalition of Women for Peace after it had been revealed the feminist organization endorsed the BDS.

Marc Lamont Hill (Photo: CNN)

I did not mention any of the senior executives by name because this issue is not about keeping score. Its a matter of principle. And you know that there are other bodies and activistswho spread propagandafunded by you. They are the ones who inspire journalists like Hill to call for Israels destruction.

I didnt talk in this article about organizations like Adalahwhich is an issue of its own. What Ive presented here is enough. And dont tell me that the fund plays an important role in establishing a just society. Although it might be true, criticising a political body is not about emphasizing the good deeds but underlining the bad ones.

Mr. Gitzin, just dont tell us that were talking about private people." Hill is also a private man, but he was fired. So you have an opportunity to prove that when you said that the fund is indeed Zionistit wasnt just lip service. It you choose not to do anything, then the next time someone says that the New Israel Fund is anti-Zionist, dont complain. The ball is in your court.A Saudi dissident has filed a lawsuit against an Israeli surveillance company, claiming its sophisticated spyware targeted him and helped lead to the killing of his friend, Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

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The suit, filed in a Tel Aviv court on Sunday, follows others previously filed against the company. But because of its links to the international outrage over the killing of Khashoggi, it is likely to shine a larger spotlight on the company and the Israeli government, which licenses the export of the surveillance technology.

The company called the lawsuit "completely unfounded," saying it shows "no evidence that the company's technology was used."

Jamal Khashoggi and crown prince of Saudi Arabia (: EPA, AFP)

Israel's Defense Ministry declined to comment on its export policies.

According to the lawsuit, Omar Abdulaziz, a sharp online critic of the Saudi royals and a resident of Canada where he has received asylum, said he was friends with Khashoggi and worked with him on a project meant to rein in pro-monarchy Saudi trolls.

Abdulaziz received and clicked on a link sent to his phone in June 2018 that he says exposed his mobile communications to Saudi authorities. The lawsuit says Abdulaziz faced increased harassment by Saudi authorities after he clicked on the link, including the detention of family members in Saudi Arabia.

Abdulaziz plans to argue that his cooperation with Khashoggi was "a crucial factor" in the decision to have the US-based columnist for The Washington Post killed and that there was a direct link between the surveillance carried out on Abdulaziz and the slaying.

A 15-member team sent from Riyadh strangled and dismembered Khashoggi at the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul two months ago. His remains have yet to be found.

Turkey says the orders for the killing came from the highest levels of the Saudi government, but not King Salman. The Saudi agents blamed for the killing include some members of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's security entourage.

After weeks of denying any knowledge of Khashoggi's death, Saudi authorities acknowledged that he was killed in the consulate, saying a team of agents sent to retrieve him had exceeded their authority.

"The spying that was directed against (Abdulaziz) and the disclosure of the content of the conversations and messages between him and Khashoggi through the system contributed significantly to the decision to assassinate Mr. Khashoggi by the assassins at the consulate," the lawsuit states.

NSO Group (Photo: Orel Cohen)

It cites news reports and other sources claiming that NSO Group sold Saudi Arabia the technology in 2017 for $55 million.

The lawsuit says Abdulaziz was notified that his phone was compromised by internet watchdog Citizen Lab, which says it has used an internet survey technique to identify suspected spyware infections linked to the Israeli company.

Abdulaziz is demanding 600,000 shekelsabout $160,000in damages from the company, as well as an order preventing it from selling its technology, known as "Pegasus," to Saudi Arabia.

The NSO Group's smartphone-hacking technology has emerged as a favorite for authorities seeking to crush dissent across the Middle East and Latin America. The Israeli firm's software is part of a larger family of malware that allows spies to take remote control of phones from anywhere in the worldturning the devices in targets' pockets into powerful surveillance tools.

In a written statement, NSO Group disputed some details in the lawsuit and said it "appears to be based on a collection of press clippings that have been generated for the sole purpose of creating news headlines and do not reflect the reality of NSO's work."

The company said its products "are licensed for the sole use of providing governments and law enforcement agencies the ability to lawfully fight terrorism and crime in the modern age." It said it takes "an extremely scrupulous" approach to the sale of its products, which also undergo vetting and licensing by Israel's Defense Ministry.

In an earlier statement it said: "We do not tolerate misuse of our products. If there is suspicion of misuse, we investigate it and take the appropriate actions, including suspending or terminating a contract," it said.

NSO offices in Herzliya (Photo: Orel Cohen)

NSO has been under the spotlight for months as dissidents, journalists and other opposition figures have claimed the company's technology has been used by repressive governments to spy on them. These include Mexican and Qatari journalists who have already filed lawsuits against the company and an Amnesty International employee who was allegedly targeted by the software.

The new suit comes days after Amnesty said it was considering legal steps to have NSO Group's export license revoked. It said it had made an urgent request to Israel's Defense Ministry to revoke the company's export license following the targeting of one of its employees. It said the request was denied.

"We thoroughly reject this inadequate response. The mountain of evidence and reports on NSO Group and the sale of its spyware to human rights-violating regimes is substantial proof that NSO has gone rogue," said Molly Malekar, programs director of Amnesty International Israel.

By continuing to approve NSO's export license, she added, Israel is practically admitting to knowingly cooperating with a company whose "software is used to commit human rights abuses."For those wishing to reside in Israel, overcoming the long lines and endless delays one faces at the labyrinthine Ministry of Interior may be the most fitting test to prove you have the chutzpah to make it in Israeli society.

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During his countless visits to the ministry, David Ben Moshe has gained that requisite Israeli chutzpah. He has not yet gained his citizenship, however, and his ordeal has no end in sight.

For over nine months, Ben Moshe has endured some of the worst of Israeli bureaucracy. Hes dealt with suspicion and even accusations regarding his conversion to Judaism, despite his daily visits to the local Orthodox shul. As a black man, he says that he has been singled out by interviewers who have told him he doesnt look like a convert and theres no way his Israeli wifes parents could be happy with him. A former convict whos changed his life around, Ben Moshe remains stuck in bureaucratic limbo as the question remains: will Israel recognize his teshuvahhis repentanceand with it his claim to citizenship? Or will they even care?

David Ben Moshe, right, and his wife Tamar Gresser on their wedding day

Ben Moshe, 31, was born David Bonett to a Christian, African-American family in rural Maryland. After dropping out of college and finding himself short on money, he allowed himself to be lured into Baltimores booming drug trade. It caught up with him and in 2010, he was arrested and convicted of one count of unlicensed dealing of firearms and one count of unlicensed distribution of oxycodone, a popular synthetic opioid.

It was while he was serving his 30 month sentence in federal prison that Ben Moshe came across Jewish texts and was taken by the teachings.

With Christianity, I dont like the idea of having a universal truth, he told Tablet. It seems there are multiple ways to have truth, and you shouldnt force other people to agree with you. When I found Judaism, I saw it wasnt like that, and as I read more and more, I realized this made sense for me.

The Talmud and Tanakh inspired Ben Moshe to turn his life around. He was released early from prison on good behavior, and he immediately began devoting himself to Jewish study, undergoing a years-long process of conversion eventually to embrace Orthodox Judaism. He returned to college, graduated magna cum laude with a degree in exercise science, and became a fitness instructor. He would also volunteer at his local shul and police department.

A few years ago, he visited Israel for the first time on a Birthright trip. It was a monumental experience, Ben Moshe said. The second I arrived at Ben-Gurion (Airport), I felt immensely connected with the place. I knew that someday, Id want to live here.

In 2017, Ben Moshe accepted an offer to enroll in the University of Floridas doctorate of physical therapy program in exercise physiology. But due to his criminal record, the admissions office chose to make him apply independently to the general university after he had already enrolled. Though already admitted to the program he was subsequently declared ineligible to attend by the director of student conduct at the last minute. But in a way, Ben Moshe saw this as a blessing in disguise. I thought to myself, If I wanted to live anywhere in the world, where would it be? His answer was Israel, and in Spring 2017, he came to the Holy Land.

The nine weeks he originally planned to test out life in Israel quickly grew into a year studying at Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies, a nondenominational yeshiva.

What impressed me most was his sincerity and determination to not only live a Jewish life, but also his attachment to the land of Israel, said Rabbi Meir Schweiger, who has taught at Pardes for over 40 years and has served as Ben Moshes spiritual adviser since he arrived in the fall of 2017. When he spoke to our class, it was inspirational to see someone who through these struggles became so self-aware and made this commitment to practice Judaism.

His intense Jewish studies coupled with his love not only for the land of Israel but an observant Israeli woman named Tamar Gresser.

From the beginning, there was something very natural about (us), said Gresser. It felt comfortable and right. My parents had both gone to Pardes, so it felt like a natural connection. Also, my parents both grew up secular and found Judaism in later years. Theres something about the kind of values I was raised in thats similar to Davids, despite the external differences.

David Ben Moshe, right, and his wife Tamar Gresser on their wedding day

Gressers family embraced her husband wholeheartedly. Studying at Pardes and in love, Ben Moshe built a life in Jerusalem, immersing himself within his local communities and volunteering at Etgarim, an NGO that promotes exercise for special needs kids. By February, he knew he wanted to marry Tamar and make aliyah. He found a job as the head personal trainer of Musach Haguf, a physical therapy and fitness center in Jerusalem, which he was slated to begin after his program ended in the spring.

After initial difficulties, Ben Moshes Orthodox conversion was recognized by the Tzohar Rabbinate, and Rabbi Schweiger officiated his wedding this summer. But applying for citizenship dragged him into a bureaucratic abyss from which, months later, he is yet to emerge.

The Law of Return invites all Jews of the world, and their spouses, to become citizens of Israel, but it has its limits. A 1954 amendment gave the minister of interior the right to deny citizenship to a Jew if they are a person with a criminal past likely to endanger public welfare.

This amendment has been used to prevent Israel from becoming a haven for Jewish criminals. The most famous example is Jewish-American mobster Meyer Lansky, who was denied citizenship in 1972 and subsequently deported back to the US despite having no previous convictions. The Supreme Court has since ruled that Israel must take into consideration the severity and frequency of the applicants criminal past, as well as how much time has elapsed since their conviction and their subsequent behavior, to decide whether they would endanger the public welfare.

Ben Moshes criminal record meant that he had to deal directly with the Ministry of Interior. Before they accepted his application, Ben Moshe said the ministry forced him to make eight trips there and spend nearly $1,000 in related expenses, demanding more documents each time. Among the references he submitted affirming his rehabilitation and character were his former probation officer, American and Israeli rabbis, and family friends.

They finally accepted his application at the beginning of May. Three weeks later, Ben Moshe received a document stating his aliyah application was pending, which was supposed to render a visa unnecessary. The ministry told him he should expect a decision any day.

In June, he attended a workshop for personal trainers and physical therapists in Hungary. But when he returned, he was detained at Ben-Gurion Airport and subjected to five hours of interrogations. Recounting the incident, Ben Moshe said the interrogating official accused him of having been in Israel illegally and, further, claimed that it is illegal to try to make aliyah from within the country. Neither of those claims was trueBen Moshe had the proper documentation for his pending application which permitted him inside the country, and the Jewish Agency prominently advertises its Change the Status program to make aliyah from within the country. The border patrol officials only relented, Ben Moshe recalls, when he mentioned his impending wedding and suggested his lawyer get involved. They gave him a three-month tourist visa while threatening deportation after that was up.

David Ben Moshe

Thus began Ben Moshes weekly visits to the Ministry of Interior to inquire about his status, which resulted eventually in an offer to interview him following the High Holy Daysat which point his visa would have already expired and hed be subject to deportation. The African-American Jew did what any Israeli would: He refused to leave his seat until the ministry gave him another tourist visa.

The interview finally came at the beginning of October. It was not what he had hoped for. According to Ben Moshe, a ministry official accused him of converting to Judaism just to make aliyah. She told him that you dont look like a convert. Ben Moshe, a tall, fit black man with dreadlocks, wears a kippah and tzitzit. Ben Moshe recounted to Tablet how he was berated by ministry officials who told him he should go back to America and try to make aliyah from there. When he told the official of the life he was building in Israel with his wife and her family, the response was: How could your wifes parents be happy with you?

The interview concluded with the ministry officials informing him that he was to now wait for Minister of Interior Aryeh Deris personal decision on his application. They also told him that when his tourist visa ends in December, he can pay for a new tourist visaimplying that they had no plans to come with a decision before then.

Sharon Gilad, a political science professor at Hebrew University who researches governmental bureaucracies, said that general research shows bureaucrats tend to interpret the exact same information more harshly when it pertains to members of minority groups. Gilad believed it was entirely plausible that if David Ben Moshe was a Jewish-born Caucasian-American, the Ministry of Interior would have assessed the danger posed to public security as much lower.

After repeated requests for comment on Ben Moshes case and an explanation of their internal process on such matters, a spokesperson for the Immigration and Population Authority said, We hope to make a decision as soon as possible. And we cant add more than that.

Still unable to begin his work in Israel, Ben Moshe exercises and reads to pass the time, attending shul every morning at 6am. But while he maintains a laid-back demeanor and easy laugh, his friends and family are increasingly frustrated with the treatment hes received.

I have rarely met someone like him who I have felt is so sincere in his Judaism, said Rabbi Schweiger. To his core, he is such a good person. Thats why I have found this whole situation to be extremely disturbing. He would be the last person this should happen to.

Ben Moshes lawyer, Assaf Benmelech, is frustrated as well. If you reject his application, you reject the belief that one can change, said Benmelech, who is representing Ben Moshe pro bono. The Jewish belief of teshuvah says that anyone can repent, can grow and become a new person. And David is clearly a new person.

Benmelech added, It is not only a moral issuefrom a legal perspective, David has a right to make aliyah.

Ben Moshes future employer, Dara Saker, has now been waiting over five months for her prospective employee to become eligible to work for her. He has several certifications in personal training not commonly found in Israel that she needs to grow her business. He is a wonderful person, Saker said. Hes a married man. Its so silly. Its ridiculous. Are they trying to wait until he gets so angry and fed up with this country he just leaves this place?

All Ben Moshe can do now is wait for a decision to come from Interior Minister Aryeh Deri personally. Deri had first served as interior minister before he was convicted in 1999 of bribery, fraud and breach of trust in that position.

He got his life backwill he have compassion with me? Ben Moshe wondered.

This story originally appeared in Tablet Magazine, at tabletmag.com , and is reprinted with permission.A group of Israeli mothers from communities located near the Gaza border petitioned Monday the High Court of Justice (HCJ) to halt the second installment of $15 million in Qatar funds from being delivered to 30,000 Hamas officials in the Gaza Strip.

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Last month, amid Egyptian mediation aimed at reaching a long-term agreement between Israel and Hamas, three large leather suitcases containing $15 million in cash entered the coastal enclave in order to pay the salaries of Hamas public servants. Additional funds are expected to be transferred in the coming months.

Hamas officials in line to receive salaries after Qatari money transfer (Photo: Reuters)

The purpose of the petitionwhich was submitted through Shurat HaDin, a civil rights non-governmental organizationis for the court to issue an interim injunction ordering the state to either completely stop the transaction or to postpone the transfer of the second installment scheduled for next week.

"This money should not be transferred as long as Gaza is ruled by the Hamas terror organization, or as long as there are no guarantees that Hamas wont use the funds to escalate their terror activities," stressed the petition.

The first money transfer was plagued by irregularities (for instance the use of suitcases to transport the funds) making it impossible for Israel to guarantee that the money reached the right recipients.

The residents of the Gaza border communities wrote a letter to Prime Minister and Defense Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling the transfer of Qatari aid extremely unreasonable and blatantly illegal." The Prime Ministers Office so far has not issued an official response to the letter.

Nitsana Darshan-Leitner, the president of Shurat HaDin

Maya Ackerman, from Kibbutz Or HaNer, was one of those who signed the petition.

"It is inconceivable that while our children are being targeted by rockets, the Israeli government is handing out Hanukkah presents to Hamas," Ackerman vented.

Nitsana Darshan-Leitner, the president of Shurat HaDin, emphasized that the first installment of Qatari money had been immediately followed by a round of escalation on the southern border, which saw nearly 500 rockets launched at Israeli cities.

"The last time the government transferred $15 million to Hamas  it got 500 rockets in return," she stated.The Trump administration is urging Europe to impose tough new sanctions on Iran over its ballistic missile program.

The call comes as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is to meet European officials in Brussels this week and after the US and others condemned an Iranian missile launch over the weekend.An Israeli company known for its sophisticated phone surveillance technology on Monday rejected accusations that its snooping software helped lead to the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.ATTENDEES SING Christmas carols Sunday at Aspirus Ironwood Hospital during the hospital auxilary's Tree of Love and Celebration Tree lighting ceremony.

By RICHARD JENKINS

[email protected]

IRONWOOD - Locals gathered outside Aspirus Ironwood Hospital Sunday to celebrate the area's births and other milestones, as well as the loved ones who passed away, at the Aspirus Ironwood Auxiliary's Tree of Love and Celebration Tree tree lightings ceremony.

Now in its 27th year, the auxiliary's Tree of Love featured around 600 bulbs, according to auxiliary president Carol D'Alberto, each of which is someone who has passed away.

"(People) buy lights and it's for people usually who have passed; or someone remembering family, friends, grandmas, g...By RICHARD JENKINS

[email protected]

HURLEY  While they don't know the final number they're working towards, Iron County Outdoor Recreation Enthusiasts members began raising funds toward the purchase of a section of rail grade in northern Iron County Sunday at a fundraising dinner.

I think things have gone very well, Mike Fauerbach told the Daily Globe.

I don't know if we've had quite as many people as last year because of the weather, but it was very, very close, said Fauerbach, one of the fundraiser's organizers.

Along with the pizza and pasta dinner at Sharon's E...Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra office markets will see the strongest property returns in the next five years, while the commercial and industrial property sectors are predicted to see lower rates of return during the same period, according to a new study.

These forecasts are connected to the unusual market condition that started after the Global Financial Crisis (GFC). According to BIS Oxford Economics latest Australian Property Outlook report, returns have been driven by investment markets instead of leasing markets. In addition, decreasing bond rates and an inflow of funds into asset markets resulted in firming yields and prices.

The report highlighted that the extraordinary strength of total returns to property investment since the GFC-induced downturn has been mainly due to falling bond rates, which drive firming yields. Increasing rates, as well as cyclical strength of the Sydney and Melbourne office markets, also contribute to the gains.

However, returns will be significantly lower over the next five years than the last five  not just for property but across asset markets.

Bond rates are unsustainably low, both here and in the US. Were already past the low point for bonds. As recovery in the US proceeds, bond rates will rise, unwinding much of the stimulus to asset yields of the period of falling bond rates, said Dr Frank Gelber, report author and head of property for BIS Oxford Economics. The tide will go out, with softening yields leading to a setback to prices and impeding returns.

The strongest markets will be those cyclical markets with the tightest leasing conditions driving rental growth. Sydney and Melbourne office markets strong rental growth will support price rises and delay the softening of yields.

It is important to note that while returns will be cyclically strong, the same strength will cause a subsequent cyclical downturn.

The weakest markets, on the other hand, will be those that are cyclically exposed to weak leasing conditions. These include the Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane office markets.

[They] will be vulnerable as investors come to realise how long it will take to absorb the oversupply of stock and the cost of re-leasing space in weak markets with high incentives. As investor interest dries up, softening yields will weaken prices and returns, BIS Oxford Economics said.

Where should investors direct their funds?

For investors with a five-year horizon, it is recommended to turn to cities with the best investment returns in office markets. They are Sydney, with a 9.2% internal rate of return (IRR), Melbourne (7.7%), and Canberra (6.1%).

However, these are down from the previous five-year period between 2013-2018 when Sydney (17.8%), Melbourne (14.9%) and Canberra (10%) all hit double-digit IRRs.

Large format retail property also boasts of strong returns of nearly 7.9% on a five-year horizon, higher than traditional retail centres but is down from the previous five-year period (16.7%).Living Section

Wellton, Arizona - Children and teens are invited to the Wellton Library for movies, crafts, and fun! There is no charge to attend any program.

Please note, the library will be closed Tuesday, December 25th, for Christmas, and Tuesday, January 1st, for New Years Day.



Tuesday, December 4th @ 10:30 a.m.

Bilingual Storytime

Parents and children can participate in stories, rhymes, and songs in English and Spanish.



Tuesday, December 4th & 11th @ 3:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 27th @ 3:00 p.m.

Gaming

Teens and tweens ages 10-17 are invited to play video games on the librarys Xbox and Wii, play board games or relax with coloring activities.



Wednesday, December 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th @ 3:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.

Childrens Craft

Youngsters age 4 and up are welcome to join us each week for a different craft. (Children under age 10, bring an adult assistant!) This month, join us for jewelry making, Christmas cards, and suncatchers.



Wednesday, December 5th, 12th, 19th @ 3:30 p.m.

Creative Lab

Teens are invited to explore their creative abilities through painting, drawing, crafting, building, experimenting, computing, and more! (Ages 13-17) This month, join us for winter and holiday-themed projects.



Thursday, December 6th @ 3:00 p.m.

Holiday Gaming Party

Teens and tweens ages 10-17 are invited to play video games, board games or relax with coloring activities while enjoying light holiday refreshments.



Friday, December 7th & 21st @ 3:30 p.m.

Builders Club

Ages 6-12 can unleash creativity through construction! Different building materials and challenges will be provided to facilitate critical thinking and learning through play. This month, join us for gumdrop trees and gingerbread houses.



Tuesday, December 11th & 18th @ 10:30 a.m.

Storytime

Young children can participate in stories, rhymes, songs, and crafts while building language and learning skills. Most beneficial for ages infant to six years old.



Thursday, December 13th @ 3:30 p.m.

Living with Snakes

Learn how to cohabitate as peacefully as possible with snakes in the desert Southwest. Wildlife management scientist Amber Monson will teach you how to prepare for your inevitable snake encounter. No snakes will be at the program.



Friday, December 14th & 28th @ 3:30 p.m.

Library Lab

Ages 6-12 can participate in Halloween-themed STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) challenges including experiments, projects, games, and other activities. This month, work with kinetic sand and make fake snow.

Saturday, December 15th @ 1:30 p.m.

Film Club for Teens

From story writing to recording to editing, learn the art of filmmaking.

Tuesday, December 18th @ 3:30 p.m.

Santa Storytime

Join us for an interactive story time with hot chocolate and cookies, followed by a visit from Santa Claus! Each child will receive a used book (while supplies last), courtesy of the Friends of the Wellton Library.



Thursday, December 20th @ 3:00 p.m.

Merry Grinchmas

Join us for a Dr. Seuss-themed party! Enjoy a holiday story time, Grinchy crafts, refreshments, and a movie! All ages welcome.



Wednesday, December 26th @ 3:30 p.m.

Combined Childrens Craft and Teen Creative Lab

Heres a great craft for young hands and slightly older ones, too. Children, tweens and teens are all invited to create a snowstorm in a bottle.



The Wellton Library is located at 28790 San Jose Avenue in Wellton, AZ. For more information, call (928) 785-9575.Yuma News

Yuma, Arizona  Yuma Deputy City Administrator Ron Corbin will be the next manager of the northern Arizona city of Cottonwood, Cottonwood announced Friday.

Corbin was promoted to Yumas deputy city administrator in September 2017 after having directed the Citys Human Resources department and then also briefly leading the Citys Information Technology Services department on an interim basis.

I have very mixed emotions as it saddens me to leave such a great organization as the City of Yuma, but I am excited about the opportunity to serve the City of Cottonwood as their next city manager, Corbin said. I am thankful to Mr. Wilkinson for giving the opportunity to serve as his Human Resources director, CIO, and finally his deputy administrator. I also need to thank the mayor and City Council for their leadership and guidance of this organization. And most importantly I am proud to have worked with some of the finest public servants around. I will miss them all.

City Administrator Greg Wilkinson congratulated Corbin on his appointment, noting it was an accomplishment Corbin had been working toward.

It has been one of Rons goals to become a city manager. We talked it about when I brought him on as deputy, Wilkinson said. Im happy for him and sad at the same time.

Wilkinson indicated he will announce a transition plan early next week.

Corbin is the second person this decade to rise from the ranks of City staff to be named manager of another city. In 2014, Brant Hanson, then manager of the Citys Neighborhood Services division, became manager of the city of Ephraim, Utah.

I think that speaks highly for our organization, Wilkinson said. In the last interview process for deputy there was no on close to our internal candidates. I knew it would not be long before Ron landed a city administrator job.

Corbin had been with the City since July 2014. That month marked a return to Yuma for Corbin, who had served as the assistant director of HR for Yuma County prior to directing the human resources department in the town of Oro Valley.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.Castle Brands Inc., together with its subsidiaries, develops, markets, imports, and sells beverage alcohol and non-alcoholic beverage products in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia. The company offers premium and super premium rums, whiskey, liqueurs, vodka, tequila, wine, amaretto, and other spirits, as well as ginger beer and ready-to-drink cocktails. It provides its products under the Goslings rum, Goslings Stormy Ginger Beer, Goslings Dark 'n Stormy, Jefferson's bourbon, Jefferson's Reserve, Jefferson's Ocean Aged at Sea, Jefferson's Wine Finish Collection, Jefferson's The Manhattan: Barrel Finished Cocktail, Jefferson's Chef's Collaboration, Jefferson's Wood Experiment, Jefferson's Presidential Select, Jefferson's Straight Rye, Pallini, Clontarf, Knappogue Castle Whiskey, Brady's, Boru, Celtic Honey, Gozio, The Arran Malt, The Robert Burns, and Machrie Moor brands. The company offers its products through a network of wholesale distributors and state-operated agencies. Castle Brands Inc. was incorporated in 2009 and is based in New York, New York.

Read MoreWestpac Banking Corp. engages in the provision of banking and financial services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Bank, Business Bank, BT Financial Group (Australia), Westpac Institutional Bank, Westpac New Zealand and Group Businesses. The Consumer Bank segment covers consumer banking products and services under the Westpac, St. George, BankSA, Bank of Melbourne and RAMS brands. The Business Bank segment involves in sales and customer service of small-to-medium enterprise, commercial and agribusiness customers under the Westpac, St.George, Bank of Melbourne and BankSA brands. The BT Financial Group (Australia) segment manages wealth and insurance division. The Westpac Institutional Bank segment delivers a range of financial services to commercial, corporate, institutional, and government customers. The Westpac New Zealand segment comprises sales and service of banking, wealth, and insurance products for consumer, business, and institutional customers. The Group Businesses segment treasury which is responsible for the management of the Group's balance sheet, group technology which includes functions for the Australian businesses, and core support which covers

Read MoreThe founder and leader of the True Word Prophetic Fire Ministry (TWPFM), Prophet Nigel Gaisie, has incurred the wrath of Ghanaians over his latest comment.

The self-acclaimed man of God in his recent comment claimed that he saw Daniel Obinim in heaven.

Prophet Gaisie made the revelation while preaching to his congregants.

Prophet Nigel Gaisie (Photo credit: YEN.com.gh)

Source: Original

READ ALSO: Purfcie Conna breaks the internet with two new photos

Me I saw him in heaven so don't judge people. Don't condemn people. The people we are saying they are correct, [the] good English speaking preachers, I didn't see most of them in heaven. I saw this man, [a] controversial man, I saw him in heaven. I saw Bishop Obinim in heaven, he disclosed.

But his comment didnt go down well with some social media users as they took strong swipe at him.

The social media users took to YEN.com.ghs Facebook to make their views known.

READ ALSO: Afia Schwar causes stir on social media with latest photo

For instance Christophe Nohiro Dorho mocked Prophet Gaisie over his comment.

Shee Ankrah advised Prophet Gaisie

Muhammad Yaseen Adams See-de also mocked Prophet Gaisie

Anima Matilda labeled Prophet Gaisie as false prophet

Odeneho Johnson Jr went hard on Prophet Gaisie

Arthur Alex Kwesi Quayson also claimed Prophet Gaisie is a false prophet

READ ALSO: Dead owl found in speaker of parliaments seat in Nigeria (Photos)

Meanwhile, Bishop Obinim in reacting to Prophet Gaisie's comment lost his cool as he torn him to pieces.

According to Bishop Obinim, Nigel's revelation was childish and does not make sense to him.

Brain Storming: What is the Full Meaning of VAT? | #Yencomgh

Your stories and photos are always welcome. Send us a message via YEN's official Facebook page.

Click here to get the latest exciting English Premier League news. Get match highlights, reports, photos & videos all in one place

Source: Yen.com.ghFor those who think politicians are all about business and being serious, the current crop is defying this notion.

Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and Presidential Secretary, Nana Asante Bediatuo have proven to be better dancers than any of us can ever imagine.

In a video that has gone viral on social media, the pair are captured displaying some deft skills on the dancefloor.

READ ALSO: Top NDC flagbearer aspirants petition parts council of elders and Rawlings

The Finance Minister was particularly impressive, as he showcased different dancing skills, including Michael Jackson style.

They join a long list of Politicians who have shown that they can be unpredictable when on the dancefloor.

Some weeks ago, Ghanaians were awed after a video in which former president Jerry John Rawlings was dancing went viral.

Before that, there was another video of President Akufo-Addo and Speaker of Parliament Prof. Aaron Mike Ocquaye displaying their dance skills during a Royal Banquet held in honour of His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.

Just last week, former President Mahama also became the latest politician who show his other side, as he was videoed dancing during his birthday party.

In fact, from the above it is clear that we have very lively politicians in Ghana who love to excite themselves through dancing.

Star Gist: Rosemond Brown a.k.a. Akuapem Poloo discloses how much she earns | #Yencomgh

READ ALSO: Shatta Wale gives Germany free show as he drops trousers during performance on stage (Video)

Click here to get the latest exciting English Premier League news. Get match highlights, reports, photos & videos all in one place.

Source: Yen.com.ghGhanaian actress Fella Makafui, has set social media ablaze after releasing a new photo.

Fella posted the photo on her Instagram page to express her delight after winning the "Young Woman Entrepreneur Of The Year" trophy at the just ended Gowa Awards 2018.

In the photo sighted by YEN.com.gh, Fella is seen flaunting Medikals promise ring.'

READ ALSO: Purfcie Conna breaks the internet with two new photos

Fella's middle finger was adorned with a ring which seems to be a promise ring from her new found love, Medikal.

Fellas intention in posting that photo was to announce and show off her latest award to her fans but they saw something else as they focused more on the ring.

READ ALSO: Afia Schwar causes stir on social media with latest photo

@miimi_vidiva was first to comment about the ring: Am I the only seeing the ring?

@ellaunique11 also commented: Kafui I can see two things, Congratulations babe. I love you.

But others also heaped praises on the YOLO actress for claiming that award.

@serwaberry1 wrote: Well deserved.

@naooprah also commented: Congratulations dear.

@luxury_washington wrote: Well done sweetheart. Keep it up.

READ ALSO: Lady barricades bank's entrance after fraudsters wiped her account

Fella has been in the news for the past weeks after snatching Medikal from Sister Derby.

She was also in the news after her ex-boyfriend seized the cars he bought for her after she decided to date Medikal.

Reports also went viral that Medikal is planning to take Fella to the altar.

Star Gist: Rosemond Brown a.k.a. Akuapem Poloo discloses how much she earns | #Yencomgh:

Your stories and photos are always welcome. Send us a message via YEN's official Facebook page.

Click here to get the latest exciting English Premier League news. Get match highlights, reports, photos & videos all in one place

Source: Yen.com.ghReshape ADF for relevance, departing president says

Departing Australian Dairy Farmers president Terry Richardson says the peak dairy body needs to be significantly changed to stay relevant and the states will need to help make it happen.Controversial actress Rosemond Brown has been caught in a huge gaffe when she attempted to explain her roots.

The budding actress is reported to have goofed big while trying to explain that she traces her roots from both Ghana and Togo.

She is quoted as saying is a recent interview that she is both Ghanaian and Togolean, instead of Togolese.

Rosemond Brown.

Source: Original

READ ALSO: Egyptian actress Rania Youssef charged over revealing dress

I am half Ghanaian, Half Togolean. (She said Togolean instead of Togolese), she said, as quoted by MyNewsGh.com.

I was born at SuhumI attended Suhum Roman, Ofori Payin and Adonten Senior High School, she added.

Rosemond Brown has often been in the news due to her propensity to court controversy.

Earlier this year, the actress accused AMG rapper Medikal of pestering her and even trying to rape her.

In one of her viral video, Rosemond drew attention to herself after making wild claims against the Too risky hit maker.

However, she later made a big U-turn, explaining that at no point did Medikal try to rape her as she had previously claimed.

According to her, the video in which she accused the rapper of raping her was simply a joke.

I just stand up and do the video, and I do a trending one. I can be with you right now and when I do it, you would think I am mad, she told Accra-based Neat FM.

Its just a joke and he knows that it is a joke. And I informed him before doing the video.

READ ALSO: My ugly and masculine wife used juju on me - Husband cries for help after 7 years of marriage

Meanwhile, she also previously courted controversy after accusing veteran actors Fred Amugi and Prince Yawson (Waakye) of having sexual affairs with her  claims which they both deny.

Rosemond Brown later revealed that she made those allegations in order to become popular.

Star Gist: Rosemond Brown a.k.a. Akuapem Poloo discloses how much she earns | #Yencomgh

READ ALSO: Serious dance moves of Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta hits the internet

Click here to get the latest exciting English Premier League news. Get match highlights, reports, photos & videos all in one place.

Source: YenThe Bursar of Bole Senior High School in the Bole District of the Northern Region, Alexis Kaguah is dead after he was beaten by an angry military officer.

According to MyNewsGH.com report sighted by YEN.com.gh, the late Kaguah was beaten by the military officer.on suspicion he was dating his girlfriend.

Reports further suggest that, the incident occurred at Fou, near SSNIT flats a suburb of the Tamale Metropolis in the Northern Region. The identity of the soldier is yet to be established as eyewitnesses say they only know him as soldier  soldier.'

Bole SHS bursar beaten to death by military officer for flirting with his girlfriend (Photo credit: supplied)

Source: UGC

READ ALSO: 95-year-old woman defies all odds, enrolls in school (photos)

Alexis Kaguah, the deceased it has been established, had a broken rib and suffered a head injury as a result of the severe beatings he received in the hands of the military man and went into a coma for five days prior to his death.

He was rushed to a private clinic and later transferred to the Tamale Teaching Hospital where a brain surgery was conducted by draining some blood but he went into a coma for days and could not survive.

The story was first reported by drumbeatsgh.com who revealed that the deceased family is yet to officially report the matter to the police because the woman (girlfriend) over whom the Bole SHS Bursar was beaten to death is a friend to the family.

READ ALSO: Photo: President Trumps daughter reportedly dating millionaire who grew up in Nigeria Read

She comes to her place to do her makeup and styles. They are very close friends an unnamed source is quoted by MyNewsGH.com. If I was the deceased wife I would have let police arrest the girlfriend of the military officer ad well, the source said.

It is gathered that the deceased left behind four children and their mother.

Star Gist: Rosemond Brown a.k.a. Akuapem Poloo discloses how much she earns | #Yencomgh:

Your stories and photos are always welcome. Send us a message via YEN's official Facebook page.

Click here to get the latest exciting English Premier League news. Get match highlights, reports, photos & videos all in one place

Source: YenGhanaian policewomen serving with the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) have been widely commended for their efforts.

The female Police officers have been assembled in the war-torn country to help restore peace.

They have also been tasked to act as role models and inspire women and girls to advocate their own rights and pursue careers in law enforcement.

Ghanaian policewomen in Somalia. Source: Graphiconline.com.

Source: UGC

READ ALSO: 5 political deaths that rocked the nation in 2018

They are currently on a peacekeeping mission in Somalia to make the peacekeeping force approachable to women in the community.

The Graphic Online reports that the Ghanaian policewomen in Somalia are making a positive impact on the peacekeeping environments.

Overall, six countries from across the continent have contributed police officers for the operation.

The other countries include Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Sierra Leone and Zambia.

However, Ghana has the highest number of policewomen among the six police contributing countries.

There are 13 women from the Ghanaian Police, contingent of 37 individual police officers (IPOs), seconded to the AU Mission in Somalia, while Zambia places second with 11 women out of a 20-member contingent.

Nigeria has six women out of a contingent of 28, Kenya six out of 26, Uganda five out of 20 with Sierra Leone having two women out of 28 police personnel with AMISOM.

Inspector Peace Abra Nyampo, is in charge of coordinating a Joint Operation Command Centre (JOCC), at the Somalia Police Force headquarters in Mogadishu.

READ ALSO: GH420K Fee: NDC supporters queue to donate widow's mite to Mahama (Photos)

Meanwhile, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Ms Susana Dery, also mentors and helps the Somali Police Force in capacity building.

The Situation Report Office is also headed by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ms Hannah Adjei, who also serves as a Secretary to the Police Component of AMISOM.

She doubles as the driver of the armoured Police vehicles.

When they see us we give them hope, and we prove a point that as women we can equally work in sensitive and risky areas for the good of humanity and for a better world, Inspector Peace Abra Nyampo said in an interview with the Daily Graphic.

Ghana News Today: Colleges of Education Closed Indefinitely / Work Continues at GIJ | #Yencomgh

READ ALSO: GH420K Fee: NDC supporters queue to donate widow's mite to Mahama (Photos)

Click here to get the latest exciting English Premier League news. Get match highlights, reports, photos & videos all in one place.

Source: Yen.com.ghFrank Darko, the Ghanaian who went viral over his invention of a water bicycle  a bike that can be ridden on water surfaces, has joined the Total Startupper of the Year challenge in hopes of winning to represent Ghana in Africa.

The student of the Takoradi Technical University entered the top competition during its second edition of the entrepreneurship-based contest with his Trifad invention.

After the submissions, his project has been selected among the top projects which are under consideration to win the ultimate prize.

Frank Darko. Credit: YEN.com.gh

Source: Original

READ ALSO: 95-year-old woman defies all odds, enrolls in school (photos)

The ultimate winner however stands the chance of representing Ghana at the regional level.

Frank urged Ghanaians to vote for him do he could bring honour to the country. Click here to vote for Frank Darko

Frank Darko has received many accolades with the latest being the award he took during the 5th edition of the MOBEX Africa Innovation Awards which was held at the Labadi Beach Hotel on Saturday, September 29, 2018.

Frank Darko was won the 'Rising Star' category of the awards which was had other four innovative Ghanaians.

According to the event organizers, this was the first time they were awarding Ghanaians who sought to solve everyday challenges with their creativity.

The young inventor also received a national award for his invention which has come to be known as the from the Ghana Institute of Engineers at the 2018 Engineering Excellence Awards held on February 22, 2018 at the Academy of Health and Sciences.

Water bicycle. Credit: YEN.com.gh

Source: Original

His award was for his substantial contribution to the promotion of engineering practice and innovation.

READ ALSO: Photo: Man takes Jesus' statue to Soccabet shop as he hopes to win big

In YEN.com.ghs first exclusive conversation with Frank Darko, he revealed that his inspiration for the water bike came from a documentary he watched on how school-going children had to swim across water bodies before getting to school.

He put his ideas into action and came up with Africas first bicycle that travels on water and he received a lot of attention for his ingenuity.

Aside the national award, Frank has been offered to full scholarships by the Takoradi Technical University to come back and finish his course in Graphic Designing and take up another course in Engineering.

He also got featured on BBC Africa and made an appearance on The KSM Show in Ghana.

Some months ago, YEN.com.gh had an encounter with, Frank Darko after he reached out to us about his invention.

Frank Darko resides in Takoradi in the Western Region. The inventor revealed that the special bicycle was his first invention but he had drawn up plans for many more inventions.

He revealed that his creativity came about as a result of his matchless love for science, technology and the urge to solve day-to-day problems faced by people living in the community.

Total Petroleum Ghana Limited launched the second edition of the 'Startupper of the Year' competition - a contest designed to unearth budding entrepreneurs in the country to help advance the socio-economic development of the country.

The entrepreneurship-based challenge was launched at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra on Friday, October 5, 2018 with many dignitaries in attendance.

The winners for this year's challenge are going to share a cash pot of GHC 180,000, extensive publicity and would also be mentored for a year.

READ ALSO: 3 brothers from Kumasi attending big brothers wedding in Accra drown hours to ceremony (Video)

Watch: Ghana News Today: Colleges of Education Closed Indefinitely / Work Continues at GIJ | #Yencomgh

Click here to get the latest exciting English Premier League news. Get match highlights, reports, photos & videos all in one place.

Source: YenLocals Chris and Annie Glenn will open their 10th San Diego retail store with Urban Beach House in Carmel Valleys One Paseo in spring 2019. The store, boasting coastal-inspired fashion, accessories and gifts for men, women and kiddos will be the third Urban Beach Housethey also own Urban Beach House in Del Mar Plaza and Urban Girl and Perfect Pineapple in the Village at Pacific Highlands Ranch.

The Glenns lived in Pacific Highlands Ranch for nine years before making a move to Del Mar Mesa. Annie also holds a business representative seat on the Carmel Valley Community Planning Board. Their son, Jack, graduated from Canyon Crest Academy in 2016 and son Cooper is a sophomore at Torrey Pines High School.

The pair met in college at Point Loma Nazarene and after graduating the aspiring entrepreneurs pooled their money to open a kiosk in Horton Plaza in 1993. They went on to open stores in Seaport Village and Del Mar --opening Urban Girl in Pacific Highlands Ranch in 2015 and Perfect Pineapple in 2017.

The Glenns were excited to have their first construction meeting at the site last week. They are keeping it local and using White Construction, who also did their two stores in the Village at Pacific Highlands Ranch.

Urban Beach House will offer a diverse assortment of brands such as Quicksilver, TOMS, Billabong, Roxy, O'Neill, Rvca, Z Supply, Brixton, Havaianas and Olukai, along with many others.Asphalt works on the Bauerfield runway has started following initial trials and testing early this month.Blog Archive June 2021 (1) May 2021 (77) April 2021 (77) March 2021 (82) February 2021 (68) January 2021 (64) December 2020 (67) November 2020 (66) October 2020 (66) September 2020 (67) August 2020 (74) July 2020 (83) June 2020 (92) May 2020 (86) April 2020 (104) March 2020 (105) February 2020 (74) January 2020 (75) December 2019 (75) November 2019 (70) October 2019 (89) September 2019 (69) August 2019 (81) July 2019 (77) June 2019 (73) May 2019 (110) April 2019 (110) March 2019 (102) February 2019 (85) January 2019 (123) December 2018 (116) November 2018 (112) October 2018 (121) September 2018 (107) August 2018 (150) July 2018 (163) June 2018 (190) May 2018 (145) April 2018 (112) March 2018 (124) February 2018 (113) January 2018 (164) December 2017 (150) November 2017 (144) October 2017 (169) September 2017 (171) August 2017 (135) July 2017 (131) June 2017 (147) May 2017 (160) April 2017 (138) March 2017 (156) February 2017 (143) January 2017 (203) December 2016 (208) November 2016 (185) October 2016 (173) September 2016 (194) August 2016 (232) July 2016 (225) June 2016 (238) May 2016 (231) April 2016 (215) March 2016 (246) February 2016 (226) January 2016 (252) December 2015 (230) November 2015 (250) October 2015 (234) September 2015 (222) August 2015 (253) July 2015 (275) June 2015 (279) May 2015 (223) April 2015 (226) March 2015 (243) February 2015 (258) January 2015 (281) December 2014 (292) November 2014 (296) October 2014 (413) September 2014 (472) August 2014 (506) July 2014 (483) June 2014 (488) May 2014 (512) April 2014 (497) March 2014 (531) February 2014 (482) January 2014 (535) December 2013 (482) November 2013 (441) October 2013 (416) September 2013 (491) August 2013 (521) July 2013 (491) June 2013 (470) May 2013 (457) April 2013 (426) March 2013 (420) February 2013 (414) January 2013 (489) December 2012 (433) November 2012 (504) October 2012 (469) September 2012 (430) August 2012 (427) July 2012 (360) June 2012 (336) May 2012 (362) April 2012 (322) March 2012 (263) February 2012 (224) January 2012 (291) December 2011 (295) November 2011 (325) October 2011 (330) September 2011 (319) August 2011 (333) July 2011 (318) June 2011 (387) May 2011 (373) April 2011 (389) March 2011 (375) February 2011 (335) January 2011 (400) December 2010 (445) November 2010 (395) October 2010 (312) September 2010 (262) August 2010 (277) July 2010 (323) June 2010 (386) May 2010 (360) April 2010 (333) March 2010 (351) February 2010 (336) January 2010 (384) December 2009 (353) November 2009 (300) October 2009 (308) September 2009 (350) August 2009 (298) July 2009 (255) June 2009 (203) May 2009 (193) April 2009 (186) March 2009 (197) February 2009 (173) January 2009 (148) December 2008 (181) November 2008 (197) October 2008 (236) September 2008 (304) August 2008 (314) July 2008 (273) June 2008 (27) May 2008 (1) April 2008 (6) October 2007 (1) May 2007 (1) April 2007 (6) March 2007 (2) February 2007 (1) October 2006 (1) September 2006 (1) August 2006 (4) July 2006 (4) June 2006 (1) July 2005 (1) May 2005 (2) March 2005 (1) June 2004 (2) May 2004 (1) April 2004 (4) March 2004 (2) February 2004 (2) July 2003 (2) June 2003 (5)

By Reuters , Dec. 01, 2018





DUBAI (Reuters) - Irans navy on Saturday launched a domestically made destroyer, which state media said has radar-evading stealth properties, as tensions rise with arch-enemy, the United States.





In a ceremony carried live on state television, the Sahand destroyer  which can sustain voyages lasting five months without resupply  joined Irans regular navy at a base in Bandar Abbas on the Gulf.

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By The Hill , Dec. 01, 2018





Vice Adm. Scott Stearney, the Navys top officer overseeing forces in the Middle East, died Saturday in what defense officials now call an apparent suicide," CBS News reports.





Stearney, who was the commander of the military branchs 5th Fleet in Bahrain, was found dead in his residence, the Navy confirmed earlier on Saturday. Paul Schlise, the deputy commander of 5th Fleet, will assume command in his place.

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Videos

Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos.There was progress against impunity in El Salvador this week as a court handed down sentences against soldiers involved in "disappearing" three youth in the town of Armenia, El Salvador.The events in the case took place in February 2014 and arose from the military's role in patrolling El Salvador in support of the police in battling the country's gangs. A group of youth were talking in front of their houses in the municipality of Armenia. Six or seven soldiers on patrol approached the group and at gunpoint forced five of the boys to accompany the soldiers. They were taken from a zone controlled by the Barrio 18 gang to a zone controlled by MS-13. Two of the youth were released, and they went off to wait for their three remaining friends. Their friends never appeared, and to this date have never been seen again.Parents of the youth, including one father who was a member of the police, immediately began questioning the military, petitioning the police, prosecutors and the PDDH, asking what had happened to the boys. All their inquiries were met with a stone wall.It took a trip to the country's highest court to move the case forward. In January 2017, on the 25th anniversary of the 1992 Peace Accords, the Constitutional Chamber ruled that the role of the military in the disappearance of the three youth had been established and that the army must respond with information it possessed concerning the forced disappearances.Subsequently, prosecutors put the soldiers in the military patrol on trial for their actions where they have now been found guilty. The sentencing of six soldiers for the crime by a judge in Sonsonate is one of the rare times that the military or security forces have been held accountable for disappearances or extra-judicial killings. This event could not have been possible without the courage of the family members and their lawyers at the Salvadoran Association for Human Rights (ASDEHU) who pushed the government, often despite receiving death threats, to account for the disappearance of the three youth.Tragically, there are many similar cases which will never be prosecuted.Search All categories Advertising General Aerospace General Agriculture General Airlines General America - Post 9/11 General Apparel General Apple Products General Architectural General Architecture Architecture Art & Entertainments Books Celebrities Country Music Dance Magazines Movies Museums Music Music Downloads News & Talk Shows Performing Arts Photography Television Web Sites Arts/Culture General Auction General Automotive Aftermarket Classic Autos Consumer Publications General Motorcycle & Bike Racing Recreational Vehicle Repair & Service Trade Publications Blogging & Social Media Blogging & Social Media Business Advertising / Marketing 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By Michael Moriarty



Yes, it was Lyndon Baines Johnson that, with an eagerly grim exterior, vowed to uphold the Constitution of the United States.



Was Jackie forced to be in the photo

Looking like LBJs wife?

Some of us have heard all about LBJs fascination with Jackie.

Didnt he, and his bipartisan friends, like the Bush Family, also wish wed never get out of Vietnam? As both John and Robert Kennedy had wanted?

Yes, it was LBJ that first symbolized Americas Presidential Pilgrimage to a New World Order.

What of the sudden deaths of the peace-negotiating Kennedys?

All for the sake of The New World Order!

America, according to a momentarily bipartisan plot, seemed destined for an officially ordained suicide.

The United Nations calls for The New World Order!

And LBJ?

He was officially elected as President and so disgraced himself, he refused to run for a second term.

Following him?

The star of the next chapter, Richard Nixon.

I expect his chapter to be a bit longer.

As for LBJ?!

He was only a brief continuation of The Unending Infamy Out of Texas!

Michael Moriarty is a Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning actor who starred in the landmark television series Law and Order from 1990 to 1994. His recent film and TV credits include The Yellow Wallpaper, 12 Hours to Live, Santa Baby and Deadly Skies. Contact Michael at rainbowfamily2008@yahoo.com. He can be found on Twitter at https://twitter.com/@MGMoriarty.Looking at the structural problems of Canadian conservatism at the close of 2018 (Part Two) By Mark Wegierski

The Toronto-based Mackenzie Institute (despite a far higher profile in the late-1980s) appeared to mostly have been (from the 1990s until early 2014) the personal enterprise of one indigent person. The full name of the Institute was rendered in earlier years as The Mackenzie Institute for the Study of Terrorism, Revolution, and Propaganda. In early 2014, The Mackenzie Institute revamped its website and appears to have become more dynamic. The Ottawa-based Centre for Immigration Policy Reform, which was founded around 2011, appears to have become more active in 2014. Its main leading figures were the late Martin Collacott, and James Bissett, both of them formerly being prominent Canadian diplomats and civil servants. The Centre argues for lowered numbers and more responsible selection and screening in immigration, temporary worker, and refugee policies. The author is also aware of an association called Societe Macdonald-Cartier Society. For non-partisan celebration of the Canadian Monarchy, there is the Monarchist League of Canada. The profile of social and cultural conservatism in Canada is rather thin. The main social conservative publications are The Interim: Canadas Life and Family Newspaper (and an associated website, lifesite.net). The longtime magazine Catholic Insight (Toronto) ceased printing in 2015. Lifesite has tried to found a similar magazine, called Faithful Insight. Lifesite has had to defend itself from an irksome libel suit that could have potentially financially crippled the website. (However, the litigant passed away in 2014.) The main pro-life, pro-family association is called the Campaign Life Coalition. There is a French-language, Quebec-based, social conservative intellectual journal, called Egards. The most prominent think-tank of what could be called broadly religious conservatives is Cardus. Cardus has linked with the Centre for Cultural Renewal (formerly the Centre for Renewal in Public Policy). Cardus publishes a magazine called Convivium, as well as Comment. However, Convivium has become an online-only publication  its last print issue appeared in January 2017. Cardus is a think-tank which does not yet offer scholarships or grants (beyond one, as far as the author of this article can recall). In earlier articles, it had been suggested that Cardus could try to move in the direction of becoming an institution like the Intercollegiate Studies Institute (ISI) in the United States. The ISI, which has, for most of its history, been mostly traditionalist conservative, offers very extensive scholarships to students, as well as publishing scholarly journals and books, and holding various seminars and conferences for promising students and academics. There is also the Ottawa-based Institute for Marriage and Family Canada. In Calgary, there is the Canada Family Action group. And, for many decades, REAL Women of Canada has been a well-known association. To be continued. Mark Wegierski is a Canadian writer and historical researcher. HomeThe future of Sino-Israeli relations: Optimism or caution? By Shaun Ho

When Chinas Vice President Wang Qishan visited Israel on October 22-25, 2018, on his Middle East tour, there was a lot of media attention, not only surrounding his visit but also on the growing ties between the Jewish state and the rising Asian superpower. Although some praised increasing trade and cooperation, others warned that Chinas involvement in Israel may threaten the latters national security. This media attention is hardly surprising. Wang Qishan is the most senior Chinese official to visit Israel since former President Jiang Zemins visit in 2000. For the past decade, trade, investment, technological cooperation, tourism, and academic and cultural exchanges between the two countries have all expanded rapidly. China, which had stridently supported the Arab and Palestinian causemostly for its geopolitical and energy interests in the regionhas become more neutral in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and friendlier to Israel ever since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1992. Despite Beijings close ties to Israels regional adversaries, such as Iran, there is little doubt that Chinas relations with Israel will continue to grow rapidly. What does this growing Sino-Israeli relationship mean to both countries, economically and politically? What are the motivations of this relationship, and what challenges will each have to confront? As Jerusalem embraces its growing friendship with Beijing, both Israel and China will benefit greatly from increasing economic and trade opportunities and growing bilateral political ties. However, both sides will also need to exercise caution in the wider context of geopolitics in the region so as not to compromise their national security. Trade and Innovation

President Xi Jinping meets with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in China in March, 2017 The most crucial driving factor in the Sino-Israeli relationship is trade and innovation. Ever since China opened up its economy to the world in the 1980s, major economies around the world have rushed to take advantage of Chinas enormous labor market and, increasingly today, consumer market. As the worlds second-largest economy and largest exporter, it is simply impossible to ignore Chinas huge market. Israel, however, was a late starter. Even years after the two countries established official relations in 1992, China was a relatively minor player in the Israeli economy until a few years ago. For China, which currently has an economy more than 30 times larger than that of Israel, Israel was even more economically insignificant. In the past few years, however, the two countries signed numerous agreements on business, trade, innovation, and cooperation, which significantly increased bilateral trade between the two countries. The benefit to Israel is obvious. As one of the worlds largest markets, China offers myriad opportunities to Israeli companies, especially those specializing in agricultural technologies, medical equipment, and other products in the hi-tech sector, which have a high demand in China. As a global leader in innovation and start-ups, Israel has a great comparative advantage in this sector, even in the Chinese market. Israeli exporters are not the only benefactors. Consumers in Israel would also benefit from importing Chinese products, which are usually more affordable than their Western counterparts but also of increasingly high quality. While it is easy to see why Israel is so eager to trade with China, why is China so enthusiastic about increasing trade and cooperation with this tiny country in the Middle East? After all, China has great strategic and energy interests in the Arab states and Iran, so realistically it is not in Chinas geopolitical interest to cozy up to Israel. To understand this, it is important to recognize the economic transition Beijing is currently pushing for. For the past decades, Chinese has become the worlds largest manufacturer, which has lifted hundreds of millions out of poverty and allowed China to grow at double-digit rates for a long time. Chinas leaders, however, have recognized that this economic boom is unsustainable without further reforms, as manifested by the decrease in economic growth to about 6 percent and the rapid increase in debt. Innovation is the answer to this stagnation. Namely, Chinese leaders want to transform China from the worlds factory to an innovation superpower. It is only by implementing this economic transition that China can become a high-income economy with sustainable growth. Indeed, China has already become one of the most innovative countries in the world. The Asian superpower has already become the global leader in artificial intelligence (AI), mobile payment, facial recognition, digital technology, and other high technologies. Israel is also one of the most innovative countries in the world. It has the most start-ups per capita in the world and has created and invented a disproportionately large number of innovative technologies. Israels innovative power has undoubtedly grabbed the attention of Chinese political and business leaders. As it strives to make its economy even more innovative, China increasingly sees Israel as a valuable and strategic partner. Not only does trading with and investing in Israel benefit both countries economies, but it will also allow new and valuable technologies to be introduced to China. Furthermore, Israels fields of specialty are especially crucial to China, not only in terms of its bid to become an innovative power, but also in terms of solving some of its most serious domestic problems, such as drought and food security. Agricultural technology, of which Israel is a world leader because of its arid and unfavorable natural environment, is extremely important to China because of its lack of fresh water and arable land. Thus, Israels agricultural and food technologies will be crucial for China to be able to continue to feed its huge population and maintain its food security, which is especially important to Chinas social and political stability. In 2014, for example, the Chinese company Bright Food acquired a majority stake in Tnuva, the largest food manufacturer in Israel. Medical technology and equipment is another field that is especially valuable to China, as it is facing a shortage of medical supplies and its population is aging. In addition to Chinas desire to become an innovation superpower, its growing trade relationship with Israel is partly motivated by the ongoing U.S.-China trade war, which is harming Chinas exports to a considerable degree despite Beijings tough stance. According to Tian Wenlin, a researcher at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations (CICIR), amid the ongoing trade war, China needs new export markets and trading partners to offset decreasing exports to the United States. For Beijing, Tian said, strengthening cooperation in various fields and expanding trade with Israel would bring great economic benefits and expand Chinas export market. While increasing trade with Israel will not completely offset Chinas decreasing trade with the United States, it will alleviate Chinas loss from the trade war. Geopolitical and Security Concerns Cooperation in innovation and trade between China and Israel is a win-win situation from the economic perspective. However, the increasingly close ties between the two countries have raised concerns about the implications not only for Israels national security but also for that of its most important ally, the United States. According to The Economist, there are two main security concerns. One is Chinese involvement in infrastructure projects in Israel. By controlling key infrastructure projects in Israel, state-owned Chinese companies could easily spy on sensitive information and assets, such as military equipment, in Israel. The commercial shipping facility of Haifa Port, which is Israels most important port, is currently run by the Shanghai International Port Group. This port is also where the Israeli Navy docks some of its most important vessels, including submarines. Because of the close proximity of the commercial shipping to some of Israels most sensitive military equipment, concerns were raised about whether China will be able to gain access to sensitive information, which would potentially threaten Israels national security. The United States, which also has a naval presence in Haifa, has also expressed concern about Chinese involvement in Haifa Port, as China could easily spy on American military equipment as well. Another concern is the transfer of Israeli dual-use technologies to China, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity products. Although Israel stopped selling military arms to China in 2005 under U.S. pressure, some Israeli firms have continued to sell dual-use products that can be used for civilian but also military purposes, including intelligence and surveillance. Israeli security officials warned that such technologies may end up being transferred to Iran, one of Chinas most important allies in the Middle East. Efraim Halevy, a former head of the Mossad, said, Israel has to do business with China, of course, but there is no serious mechanism to make sure that we dont sell off key economic assets and valuable technological knowledge. Because of the lack of such mechanisms regulating the export of dual-use products, individual firms in Israel are expected to regulate themselves so that the most sensitive technologies are not exported to China. While many security officials have urged the government to implement such mechanisms, Prime Minister Netanyahu has been reluctant to do so as he fears that it may harm Israels trade relationship with China. Another dilemma that Israel must face is Chinas close alliance with its adversaries in the Middle East. Although Sino-Israeli relations have never been better, China still maintains close and friendly ties with Arab states and Iran to serve Chinas geopolitical and economic interests in the region. This is illustrated by the fact that top Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping, have made numerous visits to Arab states, while Wang Qishan was the first top official to visit Israel since 2000. As the United States pivots toward Asia and reduces its presence in the Middle East, the vacuum is being filled by other great powers, such as Russia and China. China, which is seeking to expand its international influence economically and politically, will want to expand its influence in the Middle East. For example, while it has not been involved in the Syrian civil war militarily, as Russia has, China has been supportive of the Syrian government throughout the war. As the war is coming to an end, China is likely to expand its influence in Syria as the country begins its reconstruction process. More crucially, China maintains close and friendly ties with Iran. The Islamic Republic is especially important for Chinas economic and geopolitical strategy in the region because it is an important source for Chinas gas imports and because geographically it serves as the gateway to the Middle East. Moreover, China sees Iran as an important power that balances U.S. influence in the region. In addition to Syria and Iran, China also maintains good ties with Arab states like Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Thus, while Jerusalems growing ties with Beijing will certainly benefit Israel economically and politically, it must also be cautious of Beijings close relationships with other players in the Middle East, especially Tehran and Damascus. Chinas involvement in the region, however, may not always be a security threat to Israel. For example, while China has become less pro-Palestinian than before, it has shown interest in being more involved in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. In 2017, when PA President Mahmoud Abbas visited Beijing, Xi Jinping presented a four-point peace plan, which is used by the Chinese delegation to the United Nations as a reference point to the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. During Wangs visit to Israel, Chinese state media stated that Jerusalem expressed its appreciation of Chinas increasingly active role in the peace process. While this does not mean that Beijing will be as involved as the United States or the European Union in the peace process, it does symbolize an important shift from its past policy of strict non-interference. Chinas Economic Interests in the Middle East China sees the Middle East as crucial to its economic interests. One important component of Chinas economic interest in the region is, clearly, its energy security. As a rising economic superpower, China is seeing an enormous demand for energy as its economy continues to expand rapidly and as its citizens become wealthier. While it is diversifying its energy sources by investing heavily in renewable and nuclear energy, it still sees securing the supply of gas and oil as crucial to its energy policy. As the worlds largest importer of crude oil, China imports more than 40 percent of its crude oil from Middle Eastern suppliers, such as Saudi Arabia and Iran. Iran, as one of the biggest natural gas producers in the world, is extremely important to Chinas energy interests, which explains Chinas decision to ignore the recent re-imposition of U.S. sanctions. The other important component of Chinas economic interest in the Middle East is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), also known as One Belt One Road (OBOR). The BRI is an international development project initiated and led by Beijing that is aimed at fostering trade and development in different parts of Asia, Europe, and Africa. Inspired by and based on the ancient Silk Road that connected China to the West, it consists of the Silk Road Economic Belt, which is a land route that spans from China to Central Asia and Europe, and the Maritime Silk Road, which is a maritime route that spans from China to Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Under the BRI, China has helped to fund infrastructure and investment projects in the countries involved, especially in Africa and Southeast Asia. Although the BRI has brought great economic and trade opportunities to many countries, the initiative is also regarded by critics as a form of economic imperialism and as an attempt by China to expand its market and to increase its economic and even political influence across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Sitting at the crossroads between Asia, Europe, and Africa, the Middle East undoubtedly plays an indispensable role in the BRI. As a result, in recent years China has paid increasing attention to the Middle East by fostering ties with countries in the region. It has also begun to put efforts into promoting political stability in the region, as instability and conflict would be damaging to the trade routes under the BRI. In July 2018, for example, Beijing hosted 22 Arab League member states in the Ministerial Meeting of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum, during which China pledged $23 billion in loans and aid to Arab states for infrastructure and investment projects and humanitarian aid. At the same time, however, China has emphasized the economic development method of fostering political stability and peace, rather than political interference. Despite its small size and lack of economic connectivity with the rest of the region, Israel will likely become a vital player in the BRI. As part of the Maritime Silk Road, Israel will play an important role in connecting China with the Mediterranean through trade because of its strategic geographical location in the eastern Mediterranean. This is why the ports of Haifa and Ashdod, which connect Israel with Europe, are so important to China. By investing in and being involved in the construction of these two ports, China will be able to create a new trade route between China and the Mediterranean via Israel. In addition, Israel has an important role in the BRI because it is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for Chinese investments, especially in the field of technology and infrastructure. Nevertheless, larger economies, such as Iran and Saudi Arabia, will likely continue to play a bigger role than Israel in the BRI, simply because they are of more strategic and economic interest for China. Conclusion Wang Qishans visit to Israel in October symbolizes an important milestone in Sino-Israeli relations. Indeed, there has never been a better relationship between Jerusalem and Beijing both economically and politically. Trade, tourism, technological cooperation, academic and cultural exchanges, and political relations are flourishing and should continue to do so. Yet, both Israel and China must exercise caution. For Beijing, while fostering good relations with Israel will bring great economic benefits, it must play a balancing act between maintaining friendly ties with Israel and Middle Eastern powers such as Iran. Since Iran and the Arab states are of greater strategic importance for Beijing, it will likely be cautious in its developing relationship with the Jewish state so as not to offend its closest allies in the region. Despite these potential roadblocks, however, bilateral relations between Israel and China will likely continue to flourish. Shaun Ho is a student at the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service and an intern at the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs (JCPA). HomeAn 'independent judiciary' reality check By Mark Alexander

Let's set the record straight... You may have heard that President Donald Trump is adamant about defending our southern border. Most recently, that defense has been focused on the migrant mobs attempting to breach our border between Tijuana and San Diego. In a setback to Trump's efforts, one of Barack Obama's appointees on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, Judge Jon Tigar, blocked Trump's order requiring that illegal alien asylum applications, the free ticket to America, be processed at legal points of entry. (There's a reason that circuit is also known as the Ninth Circus and the Nutty Ninth.) Trump responded to the ruling, "You go the 9th Circuit and it's a disgrace. And I'm going to put in a major complaint because you cannot win  if you're us  a case in the 9th Circuit and I think it's a disgrace. This was an Obama judge." On that note, Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, in an unprecedented rebuke of a U.S. president, chastised Trump for stating the obvious: that an Obama-appointed federal judge "was an Obama judge." Roberts declared, "We do not have Obama judges or Trump judges, Bush judges or Clinton judges. What we have is an extraordinary group of dedicated judges doing their level best to do equal right to those appearing before them. That independent judiciary is something we should all be thankful for." It would have been proper for Roberts to say nothing about Trump's remark, but, ostensibly endeavoring to protect the integrity of the courts, he apparently felt compelled. Obviously, Justice Roberts knows full well how highly politicized the federal courts are  and his assertion that we now have an "independent judiciary" defies reality. The objective of impartial "blind justice" is certainly what our Founders prescribed for the judicial branch, but they knew that attaining equal justice under the law was a high bar. The most recent skewering of then-SCOTUS nominee and now-Justice Brett Kavanaugh is an airtight case in point. So one might conclude that Roberts was projecting what he believes should be the nonpartisan nature of the courts. But as he stated it, he's flat wrong. Responding to Roberts, Trump said, "I have a lot of respect for [Roberts] but I think we have to use some common sense. This 9th Circuit, everybody knows it's totally out of control and what they're doing, what they're saying, the opinions are very unfair to law enforcement, very unfair to our military, and they're very unfair, most importantly, to the people of our country because I'm keeping them safe." Trump added: "Sorry Chief Justice John Roberts, but you do indeed have 'Obama judges,' and they have a much different point of view than the people who are charged with the safety of our country. It would be great if the 9th Circuit was indeed an 'independent judiciary,' but if it is[,] why there are so many opposing view cases filed there, and why are a vast number of those cases overturned[?] Please study the numbers, they are shocking. We need protection and security  these rulings are making our country unsafe! Very dangerous and unwise! Judges must not Legislate Security and Safety at the Border." Rep. Trey Gowdy (R-SC), a former federal prosecutor and a strong candidate for a Circuit Court nomination once he retires from the House, declared, "I wish Chief Justice Roberts were right. I wish there were not a politicization of the judiciary." Gowdy, chairman of the House Oversight Committee, added, "Every print article that you will go find ... refers to judges based on the president that put him or her in office. And you see terms like conservative and ultra conservative and liberal and moderate, which are political terms. ... So I wish Chief Justice Roberts were right. I wish that we did not refer to judges based on which president put them in office as if that is somehow going to inextricably lead us to the conclusion." The fact is, federal judges have proven to be partisan for generations, and there is most assuredly a very distinct division and partiality on the federal bench. Judges nominated and appointed by Republican presidents are partial toward Rule of Law and the Liberty enshrined in our Republic's Constitution. In the overwhelming majority of cases, they honor their oaths "to support and defend" our Constitution. Conversely, judges nominated and appointed by Democrat presidents are clearly partial toward the so-called "living constitution" embraced by those who reject Rule of Law in deference to the rule of men, the irrevocable terminus of which is tyranny. Of the latter, Thomas Jefferson warned they would "make the Judiciary a despotic branch." As the venerable former Sen. Sam Ervin (D-NC) once put it, these are judges who "interpret the Constitution to mean what it would have said if [they], instead of the Founding Fathers, had written it." Jefferson warned that such interpretation would render our Constitution "a mere thing of wax ... which [judges] may twist and shape into any form they please." As James Madison cautioned, "There are more instances of the abridgment of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations." As for partiality on the Supreme Court, over the last 18 months, according to The Daily Wire, "The four left-leaning judges on the Supreme Court are far more consistent about voting together as a bloc than the conservatives on the court; Elena Kagan votes with Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg an average of 89% of the time; Breyer votes with his cohorts an average of 91% of the time; Ginsburg also votes with her pals an average of 91% of the time, and Sotomayor joins them 90.3% of the time." The assessment notes further, "By contrast, among the four right-leaning judges, Neil Gorsuch, Samuel Alito, Clarence Thomas, and John Roberts, Gorsuch sided with them an average of 82.7% of the time; Thomas 86.3% of the time; Alito 85.7% of the time, and Roberts 80.7% of the time." As Cal Thomas concludes, "If all judges thought the same, as Roberts seems to suggest, why are there so many 5-4 rulings by the high court?" And regarding significant immigration decisions by the lower courts since Donald Trump took office, according to a Washington Times review, "53 of the 54 Democrat appointed judges who issued or signed onto opinions in immigration cases ruled against the Trump administration's get-tough approach." The Times study noted further, "By contrast, among GOP-appointees to the federal bench, 15 judges have backed the administration in immigration cases and 13 have not." As I have noted, judicial opinions are not about "Right" versus "Left"; they're about Liberty versus tyranny. Thus, in 2016, when I voted for Donald Trump instead of his leftist opponent, Hillary Clinton, I voted for the Supreme Court. And indeed, President Trump has consistently nominated constructionist judges to both the upper and lower courts. And finally, what debate about the Supreme Court would be complete without Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) offering one of his mind-numbing observations. In an opinion that sounded far more satirical than senatorial, Schumer offered an affirmation of Roberts's assessment of judicial independence, while in the same breath accusing Roberts of partisanship in his decisions: "I don't agree very often with Chief Justice Roberts, especially his partisan decisions which seem highly political. ... But I am thankful today that he ... stood up to President Trump for an independent judiciary." Yes, you heard that correctly: Schumer sided with Trump about the Court's partisan nature, then laughably implied that he supports "an independent judiciary." But no sooner had he sucked up to the chief justice than he was back to his old obfuscatory games. This week on the Senate floor, Schumer, singing the Demos' midterm "rigged election" theme song, declared, "Justice Roberts will go down in history as one of those who worked to take away voting rights when he authored the Shelby decision and stated that he didn't believe that ... more or less, he stated that he didn't believe that discrimination existed any longer, so we wouldn't need Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act." Of course, Roberts never wrote that. In fact, quite the contrary. In that decision, Roberts noted, "At the same time, voting discrimination still exists; no one doubts that." Never let it be said that Schumer allowed inconvenient facts to get in the way of a partisan cheap shot. Mark Alexander is the executive editor of the Patriot Post. HomeDr. Willie Soon versus the climate apocalypse By Dr. Jeffrey Foss

What can I do to correct these crazy, super wrong errors? Willie Soon asked plaintively in a recent e-chat. What errors, Willie? I asked. Errors in Total Solar Irradiance, he replied. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change keeps using the wrong numbers! Its making me feel sick to keep seeing this error. I keep telling them  but they keep ignoring their mistake. Astrophysicist Dr. Willie Soon really does get sick when he sees scientists veering off their mission: to discover the truth. Ive seen his face flush with shock and shame for science when scientists cherry-pick data. It ruins his appetite  a real downer for someone who loves his food as much as Willie does. You have got to love a guy like that, if you love science  and I do. Im a philosopher of science, not a scientist, but my love for science runs deep  as does my faith. So I cannot help but admire Willie and his good old-fashioned passion for science. Willie Soon may one day be a household name. More and more he appears at the pointy end of scientific criticism of Climate Apocalypse. In two recent lawsuits against Big Oil, one by New York City and the other by San Francisco and Oakland, Dr. Soon is named as the paid agent of climate change denialism. As the man who  Gasp!  singlehandedly convinced Big Oil to continue business as usual. Can you even imagine that? I cant: Big Oil couldnt turn off its taps in big cities even if it wanted to. Putting such silly lawsuits aside, it is a big honor, historically speaking, for Dr. Soon to be the face of scientific rebuttal of Climate Apocalypse, since feeding the developed worlds apocalypse addiction is the main tool of a powerful global political agenda. The IPCC  along with the United Nations and many environmentalist organizations, politicians, bureaucrats and their followers  desperately want to halt and even roll back development in the industrialized world, and keep Africa and other poor countries permanently undeveloped, while China races ahead. They want Willie silenced. We the people need to make sure he is heard. Dr. Soon never sought the job of defending us against the slick, computer model-driven, anti-fossil fuel certainties of Climate Apocalypse. Willie just happened to choose solar science as a career and, like many solar scientists, after nearly three decades of scientific research in his case, came to believe that changes in the suns brightness, sunspots and energy output, changes in the orbital position of the Earth relative to the sun, and other powerful natural forces drive climate change. In brief, our sun controls our climate. Even the IPCC initially indicated agreement with him, citing his work approvingly in its second (1996) and third (2001) Assessment Reports. That later changed, significantly. Sure, everyone agrees that the sun caused the waxing and waning of the ice ages, just as solar scientists say. However, the sun had to be played down if carbon dioxide (CO2) was to be played up  an abuse of science that makes Willie sick. Unfortunately for the IPCC, solar scientists think solar changes also explain Earths most recent warming period which, they point out, began way back in the 1830s  long before we burned enough fossil fuels to make any difference. They also observed the shrinking of the Martian ice-caps in the 1990s, and their return in the last few years  in perfect time with the waning and waxing of Arctic ice caps here on Earth. Only the sun  not the CO2 from our fires  could cause that Earth-Mars synchronicity. And surely it is no mere coincidence that a grand maximum in solar brightness (Total Solar Irradiance or TSI) took place in the 1990s as both planets ice caps shrank, or that the sun cooled (TSI decreased) as both planets ice caps grew once again. All that brings us back to Dr. Soons disagreements with the IPCC. The IPCC now insists that solar variability is so tiny that they can just ignore it, and proclaim CO2 emissions as the driving force behind climate change. But solar researchers long ago discovered unexpected variability in the suns brightness  variability that is confirmed in other stars of the suns type. Why does the IPCC ignore these facts? Why does it insist on spoiling Willies appetite? It sure looks like the IPCC is hiding the best findings of solar science so that it can trumpet the decreases in planetary warming (the so-called greenhouse effect) that they embed in the scenarios (as they call them) emanating from their computer models. Ignoring the increase in solar brightness over the 80s and 90s, they instead enthusiastically blame the warmth of the 1990s on human production of CO2. In just such ways they sell us their Climate Apocalypse  along with the roll-back of human energy use, comfort, living standards and progress: sacrifices that the great green gods of Gaia demand of us if we are to avoid existential cataclysms. Thankfully, virgins are still safe  for now. Surely Willie and solar scientists are right about the primacy of the sun. Why? Because the observable real world is the final test of science. And the data  actual evidence  shows that global temperatures follow changes in solar brightness on all time-scales, from decades to millions of years. On the other hand, CO2 and temperature have generally gone their own separate ways on these time scales. Global temperatures stopped going up in the first two decades of this century, even though CO2 has steadily risen. The IPCC blames this global warming hiatus on natural climate variability, meaning something random, something not included in their models, something the IPCC didnt see coming. This confirms the fact that their models do not add up to a real theory of climate. Otherwise the theory would be falsified by their incorrect predictions. They predicted a continuous increase in temperature, locked to a continuous increase in CO2. But instead, temperature has remained steady over the last two decades, while CO2 climbed even faster than before. IPCC modelers still insist that the models are nevertheless correct, somehow  that the world would be even colder now if it werent for this pesky hiatus in CO2-driven warming. Of course, they have to say that  even though they previously insisted the Earth would not be as cool as it is right now. Still, their politically correct commands stridently persist: stay colder in winter, stay hotter in summer, take cold showers, drive less, make fewer trips, fly less, dont eat foods that arent local, bury your loved ones in cardboard boxes, turn off the lights. Their list of diktats is big and continuously growing. Unlike the IPCC, Willie and I cannot simply ignore the fact that there were multiple ice ages millions of years ago, when CO2 levels were four times higher than now. And even when CO2 and temperature do trend in tandem, as in the famous gigantic graph in Al Gores movie, the CO2 rises followed temperature increases by a few centuries. That means rising CO2 could not possibly have caused the temperature increases  an inconvenient truth that Gore doesnt care about and studiously ignores. Unfortunately, through their powerful political and media cadres, the IPCC has created a highly effective propaganda and war-on-fossil-fuels vehicle, to herd public opinion  and marginalize or silence any scientist who dares to disagree with it. For better or worse, richer or poorer, my dear, passionate Dr. Soon is one scientist who is always ready to stand in the path of that tank and face it down: anytime, anywhere. Im frightened by the dangers to Willie, his family and his career, due to his daily battles with the Climate Apocalypse industry. I cant get it out of my mind that the university office building of climatologist John Christy  who shares Willies skepticism of Climate Apocalypse  was shot full of bullet holes last year. But lets not let a spattering of gunfire spoil a friendly scientific debate. Right? Willies courage makes me proud to know him, and to be an aficionado of science like he is. When it comes to the long game, my money is on Dr. Willie Soon. We the people hunger for truth, as does science itself. And that hunger will inevitably eclipse our romantic dalliance with the Climate Apocalypse. Dr. Jeffrey Foss is a philosopher of science and Professor Emeritus at the University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada HomeDay 1 Stumps New Zealand 229 for 7 (Watling 42*, Somerville 12*) v Pakistan

This was a day of - pardon the cliche - proper Test cricket. It was a day that Yasir Shah threatened to hijack once more after an extraordinary pre-lunch burst that reduced New Zealand to 72 for 4, with three wickets lost for two runs. Equally, it was a day that Kane Williamson looked to have salvaged for his side with a phenomenally gritty partnership alongside BJ Watling , who finished unbeaten on 42 off 180 balls, having come in to bat all the way back in the first session. In the end, it was perhaps a day that concluded with as little to separate the sides as there had been at the toss, where a delighted Williamson had decided to bat first, as you do in Abu Dhabi.

New Zealand went to stumps with three wickets still in hand, having accumulated 229 attritional runs across 90 overs. Watling kept the innings together after Pakistan looked like they would blow away the tail when Williamson fell, and on a track that is already taking in ludicrous turn for Day 1, every run he and the remainder of New Zealand's batsman can put together could be priceless by the end of the week.

Bilal Asif was just as impressive as Yasir throughout the day, though it wasn't until the final session that he had something to show for it. That was when the pitch started misbehaving altogether more noticeably; the players might gave gone in for tea, but the pitch seemed to be on something stronger than that. The only problem the spinners had was the ball was turning too much, an unusual situation for the opening day of a match. Bilal accounted for Colin de Grandhomme this way, with a sharply turning ball flicked to leg slip, where Asad Shafiq completed a smart catch. Tim Southee, too, fell to the off spinner, and it was around then New Zealand were in danger of being bowled out on Monday before the late resistance of debutant Will Somerville in Watling's company.

But the day was arguably defined by the second session partnership of Williamson and Watling, which accounted for 104 runs in 249 balls. After Yasir's salvo in the opening session, New Zealand were left to pick up the pieces, and the pair foraged and gathered rather well. New Zealand abandoned all other concerns but the defence of their wickets, not worried that the run-rate dropped like a stone. The pair scrapped their way through the 32 overs in the middle session, adding 72 runs along the way, but most gratifyingly, they had the asterisk next to their name that denotes their continued presence at the crease after tea.

Even scoring at more than 2 per over in the session was a climb from where the run-rate was at one point: from overs 20-44, New Zealand added 45 runs to their total, going at under 1.50. In the second half of the post-lunch session though, Williamson began to capitalise as the bowlers' lengths drifted more regularly, and brought up another plucky half-century. He was unbeaten on 71 by tea, but it was altogether slower going for Watling.

The wicketkeeper batsman has been around the New Zealand setup for almost a decade now, and you could see why. Often, he has played innings with complete disregard for his own reputation or instincts, with his reserves of concentration seemingly never running low. Monday was another such day, where for the best part he was simply hanging around for Williamson, an anchor around which his captain built his own innings. He struck only one four in over two sessions of play, but it is that store he sets by his wicket that makes him such a valuable cricketer for the Black Caps. It is not the first time he has done so, and it's unlikely to have been the last.

Williamson, for his part, was desperately unlucky to miss out on what would have been a well-made hundred, chiefly responsible for ticking the scorecard along when Pakistan were at their most menacing. He was the one who declawed Yasir after lunch. He also seemed to take the fangs out of the pitch, which began to look treacherous after he had been dismissed. So supremely comfortable was he at the crease, that it was a shock to see him dismissed with such a well-rehearsed plan. Hasan Ali encouraged a drive on the up, where Asad Shafiq was perfectly positioned for a simple catch, sending the New Zealand captain back 11 runs away from a 19th Test hundred.

In the morning, Yasir's bruising body blows to New Zealand in the last 20 minutes before lunch undid much of the hard work of Jeet Raval and Williamson in the previous hour. It had all been going along steadily for the visitors before Yasir found prodigious turn to beat Raval's inside edge, the ball clipping enough of leg stump to withstand a review from the batsman. That brought a very edgy-looking Ross Taylor to the crease, who went back to a ball so short it was almost a long-hop. It neither turned nor bounced, instead clattering into the batsman's middle stump. Henry Nicholls' dismissal was even softer, with the left-hander sweeping all around a Yasir googly, managing only to catch an edge that dragged it back into the stumps.

The day had begun perfectly for New Zealand. The toss is more important here than just about anywhere in the world outside of Sri Lanka, with the side batting first only ever having lost once. But Pakistan, fielding 18-year old debutant Shaheen Afridi , found cheer in his first spell, trapping Tom Latham in front of the stumps. Fittingly enough for a young man with the future ahead of him, it was a review that got him the wicket, with the umpire originally having turned the appeal down.

Having seen out a crucial passage of play late in the day, New Zealand will need to be up for another one early morning tomorrow. Instead of being skittled out under 225, the lower order has held its own against a surging Pakistan late in the day, even a new ball unable to dislodge the unflappable Watling, with Somerville playing an impressively composed innings on debut. So important is this first innings total any runs scored now already feel like a burden on a potential fourth innings chase, which, judging by the way today has gone, could come far sooner than the fifth day.UK police forces continue to suffer under the severely adverse consequences of the British governments fiscal austerity measures. The cuts have been deep and have seen big reductions in police numbers. Police chiefs up and down the country have been forced to disband specialized policing units, including many of their fraud squads.

The fraud squad officers are highly specialized. In most cases they are long-in-the-tooth detectives, who have chosen to specialize in the investigation of fraud. These officers have to be trained to deal with fraud matters. Some are also accredited financial investigators who are authorised to stand before a judge and make an application for a production order.

These skills are expensive to acquire. Re-forming these specialist units will take years to achieve, given that the requisite experience and skill to conduct fraud investigations effectively can only be acquired over several years of work.

The net result of disbanding fraud squads is that victims are being turned away from the police stations, simply because the forces concerned dont have the money and capacity to invest to resolve what can be a complex and time-consuming investigation. This is precisely where a company director called Vincent Tickel found himself in 2016, when the virtual police station door shut in his face.

Mr. Tickel had uncovered a long-running fraud perpetrated by his company accountant, aptly named Lawless. The fraudster in question, Gerard Lawless, had systematically taken 1.5 million ($1.9 million) from the company over an 11-year period. He used the money for lavish holidays, shopping trips and for tickets to watch the Irish rugby team.

To rub salt into the wounds, he even used the company credit card to pay for the champagne at his sons wedding, a celebration attended by Mr. Tickel who had no idea that the drink he, his fellow directors and other company employees were enjoying was effectively being paid for by his company.

Having identified the fraud but being refused further support by the police when he tried to initiate an investigation, Mr. Tickel had to resort to a private criminal prosecution, which resulted in Mr. Lawless being jailed for seven-and-a-half years.

There are two questions arising from this scenario. First, why did it take 11 years for the company to identify a 1.5 million loss? And second, why are the police turning Mr. Tickel away when he has nearly all the necessary evidence to hand, which should have made their investigative process straightforward?

The lawyer representing Mr. Tickel, Tamlyn Edmonds, summed up the situation when she said:

It is shocking to think that Gerard Lawless almost got away with stealing 1.5m because the police did not investigate this case. This lack of investigation, which is a common occurrence, is why so much financial fraud goes completely unpunished. It is only because the victim pursued a private prosecution that justice has been served.

The judge sensibly and fairly ordered that the state bear the cost of the private prosecution.

Unsurprisingly, the police force in question, Hertfordshire Constabulary, aware that its reputation had been tarnished by a lack of action, launched an investigation into the matter. It is to be hoped that they and other forces realize that fraud is a serious crime and has a seriously adverse impact on victims. It is not an offense suitable for brushing under the proverbial carpet.



With thanks to Tony McClements, Senior Investigator at Martin Kenney & Co, for his assistance with this post.

_________



Martin Kenney, pictured above, is Managing Partner of Martin Kenney & Co., Solicitors, a specialist investigative and asset recovery practice based in the BVI, focused on multi-jurisdictional fraud and grand corruption cases www.martinkenney.com |@MKSolicitors. In 2014 he was the recipient of the ACFEs highest honour: the Cressey Award for life-time achievement in the detection and deterrence of fraud. He was selected as one of the Top Thought Leaders of the Legal Profession in 2018 by Whos Who Legal International and as the number one offshore lawyer for asset recovery in 2018.Inkef Capital, an Amsterdam, The Netherlands-based venture capital fund focused on technology and healthcare, has appointed Roel Bulthuis as Managing Director and Head of Healthcare Team.

He will co-manage the Inkef fund alongside Robert Jan Galema, Head of Technology Team.

Roel Bulthuis joined Inkef from M Ventures, where he established and led Merck KGaAs corporate VC fund. Over the last 10 years M Ventures built a portfolio that has now reached a level of maturity where it counts amongst the most exciting collections of healthcare assets in Europe.

Prior to setting up M Ventures, Bulthuis was a Director in the Biotech Investment Banking Team at Fortis Bank, where he was responsible for the origination and execution of a wide range of financing and strategic transactions in the biotech sector based out of Amsterdam and New York.

Before joining Fortis Bank, Bulthuis worked at Devgen NV in Gent, Belgium.

He holds a Msc. in Biopharmaceutical Sciences from Leiden University, the Netherlands, and an MBA in Finance from the Helsinki School of Economics, Finland.

Bulthuis is a Kauffman Fellow and has been named among the top 100 leaders on the Global Corporate Venturing Powerlist for 3 consecutive years since 2016.

Founded in 2010 by Dutch pension fund ABP, Inkef Capital focuses on long-term collaboration and active support of Healthcare, Technology, IT/New Media & FinTech companies.

The firm has 500m under management.

FinSMEs

03/12/2018Rock Solid Technologies, a San Juan, Puerto Rico- and Austin, Texas-based software and IT services company in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, received a majority growth investment from Strattam Capital.

The amounf of the deal was not disclosed.

The company intends to use the funds to accelerate growth in the North American market for its their civic engagement platform and to create 100 new jobs in Puerto Rico over the next five years, mostly in software engineering and information systems consulting.

Founded in 1997, Rock Solid Technologies provides Respond, a civic engagement platform that features a centralized database which facilitates the connection of citizens with government. Serving over 7 million citizens, the web-based solution is configured according to the requirements of local governments and takes advantages of predefined and configurable workflows that have been built through the years in partnership with government agencies, countries, municipalities, and public corporations in the Caribbean, Latin America, Canada, and the United States.

Rock Solid, which has 134 employees, was recently selected to provide Respond for the cities of New Orleans, LA and Winston-Salem, NC. New Orleans joins Burlington in Ontario, Canada and more than thirty-five municipalities in Puerto Rico.

The company is a Microsoft Gold Partner.

FinSMEs

03/12/2018A new study from researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles shows that some cancer patients can experience cognitive decline after chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

Its commonly thought that cancer treatments may accelerate biological aging in cells. Specifically seen in this new UCLA study is evidence that common cancer therapies including chemotherapy and radiation may be linked to DNA damage and lower telomerase activity, telomeres being the enzymes that help maintain the health of cells. Thats especially true compared to women who had surgery but no other treatment for their cancers.

UCLA researchers surveyed 94 breast cancer survivors ages 36 to 69, all of whom had completed anywhere from three to six years of breast cancer treatments including either or both chemo and radiation. Researchers also examined the participants DNA damage and telomerase activity, then compared those results with participants cognitive function to reach the conclusions found in the study.

Together this research provides preliminary evidence that the cancer treatments can leave a lasting imprint on some individuals, said Judith Carroll, the studys lead author, an associate professor of psychiatry and biobehavioral sciences, and a member of the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. Our hope is that future research will target these biological aging pathways to prevent the cognitive declines experienced by some cancer survivors.

The builds on a previous study by the same UCLA researchersand including the same 94 breast cancer survivorswhich examined the relationship between breast cancer treatments and the cellular markers of aging.Christmas Market in Konigswinter : Kick off with 8000 visitors at Drachenburg Castle

Siebengebirge Despite rain showers, thick clouds and wind, the opening weekend of the Unique Christmas Time at Drachenburg Castle was well attended. Around 8000 visitors went to the special Christmas market.

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Henrietta Smith and Mr Davenport are standing in a draft. The pretty woman with long blond curls pulls her bonnet lower down onto her face. Her counterpart is holding an oversized cognac glass with an unknown liquid in his hand.

Hot apple cider, explains the English gentleman in the red coat. Highly recommended when its cold. Would you like a sip? Later perhaps. The pair give a friendly smile and saunter off across the Venus terrace, where visitors to the Unique Christmas Time were already impressed by the special atmosphere at Drachenburg Castle in the early afternoon.

Even though Ebenezer Scrooge has not yet appeared in the flesh, the grumpy miser from Charles Dickens Christmas story is omnipresent. Besides Mrs Smith and Mr Davenport, Ralf Winterhoff of Pirates Action Theatre has brought around 20 other actors and artists with him to Konigswinter. We are creating a journey back in time here to 19th century England, he says and winks as he pulls at his dark brown, slightly threadbare jacket lapel, which is definitely not 200 years old, but looks as though it is.

There are white pagoda tents and wooden kiosks all over the park and around 50 market stall holders are offering their wares at the seventh edition of the Christmas market high above the Rhine valley. It is a diverse selection, with historical postcards, fine silver decorations, aviaries, caps, leather goods, English sweets and liqueurs. Authentically dressed women in bonnets and long dresses complete with lace aprons serve mulled wine, red wine punch or waffles. In one corner, musicians are playing Christmas music on the saxophone and a choir is singing a capella of Love is all around.

Christmas exhibition in the art gallery

At the entrance to the castle buildings, a staff member in a long coat and top hat is regulating the flow of visitors. The rooms are open to visitors. The NRW Foundation is presenting its work and Michael Heider and his team have set up their exhibition in the art gallery with sparkling and glittering accessories to match the Christmas season.

It is starting pretty well, says Alexandra von dem Brinke, who is in charge of events management at the castle and is herself dressed in Dickens-style fashion for the Unique Christmas Time. Preparations began in the castle and park two weeks ago and everything was put in place in the past few days. She estimates around 4000 visitors came on Saturday, slightly fewer on Sunday. That is similar to last year. We are happy.

Come into the puppet theatre, calls Andreas Blaschke in a loud voice and swings the bell in his hand in front of the car hall. The artist from the Cologne Puppet Theatre is advertising the second of a total of three performances this afternoon.

Robert Blake proudly explains he is the three-times Dutch champion of street magic. He has just chosen eight-year-old Otokar and his mother Adela Havlova so he can show them one of his tricks using a wand, string and coins. Mother and son are impressed. We are here for the first time, says Havlova, who comes from Prague and recently started living in Bonn with her family. I couldn't really imagine what this Christmas market was like. But the atmosphere is really special.

Only the weather had not yet adjusted to the pre-Christmas atmosphere on this first weekend in Advent. With thick clouds, wind and rain, some had their fortunes told (in English on request) in Madame Heloises tent while Seraina De Block explained historical funfair curiosities in the Panoptikum next door.

At around 4pm, the lights go on at the castle. The buildings, park, every corner is bathed in colourful light. Rain or no rain, the Drachenfels train is full and visitors are queueing at the entrance.Crime in NRW : Significant reduction in number of burglaries in NRW

Dusseldorf According to NRW Minister President Armin Laschet, three out of four violent crimes are now being solved. The state is heading for its best figures for 60 years.

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Good news for the citizens of North Rhine-Westphalia: According to Minister President Armin Laschet (CDU), the number of criminal offences in the current year has fallen considerably compared with last year and the number of crimes being solved is rising. The crime rate is clearly falling and at the same time the proportion of crimes being solved has risen to nearly 54 per cent, Laschet told our editorial staff. He is especially pleased for police officers, to whom the CDU and FDP are giving the necessary political support.

If the proportion of cases being solved remains at 54 per cent at the end of the year, this would be the best figure for 60 years. The head of the CDU government said the successes of the security forces were particularly apparent in the fight against crimes with a significant impact on people because of the fear and uncertainty they cause. Three out of four violent crimes are solved. We have again seen a significant reduction in the number of domestic burglaries: of 22.5 per cent.

In 2017, the number of domestic burglaries had already fallen by 25 per cent year on year to just under 40,000. According to the NRW Ministry of the Interior, every second attempt fails because the perpetrators cannot get into the home or do not steal anything.

Laschet is also expecting a record low number of pickpocketing incidents at the end of the year. The level of street crime, which includes bicycle theft, car break ins or bodily injuries as well as pickpocketing, is set to reach its lowest level since the police crime statistics have been compiled.

A pleasing development. However, we must also acknowledge that as far as domestic burglaries are concerned, we are coming out of a deep valley, says Michael Mertens, head of the police union in NRW.

In relation to the reduction in street crime, Mertens points to successes through video surveillance in public places. This shows that, even in the digital age, police must be given more powers and this can lead to greater security. The police unionist is concerned about the increase in violent crime in the state. Violence is increasing and the attacks are getting more brutal. The phenomenon of knife attacks has increased from my subjective point of view.clarajancita at 3-12-2018 01:36 PM (2 years ago) (f)

A woman has been ordered by a court to repay her former boyfriend up to the tune 116,000 in cash and gifts he showered upon her while they were dating, but later went sour after he caught her cheating.

A woman has been ordered by a court to repay her former boyfriend up to the tune 116,000 in cash and gifts he showered upon her while they were dating, but later went sour after he caught her cheating.

Nurse Trish Garikayi, 37, said she was a given a Porsche 911 and a 100,000 diamond bracelet from Aspreys by a love-struck businessman, Wisdom Penfold, 58. But Mr. Penfold claimed their relationship turned sour after he caught her in bed with another man.



The pair ended up locked in a bitter court battle over money. And a judge at Central London County Court has ruled that she misappropriated money Mr Penfold entrusted to her when blinded by love.



Miss Garikayi has been ordered to repay him 116,000, lawyers bills, plus a 20% share of her 340,000 home. She earlier claimed to be a kept woman and insisted that the money, like the luxury goods he lavished upon her, was a non-returnable gift. But Judge Alexander Hill-Smith said she had her eyes firmly on winning the case and unhesitatingly preferred Mr. Penfolds account of events. After the judge announced his decision, Miss Garikayi hurled her 2,500 engagement ring across the courtroom towards her ex-fiance.



Mr Penfold calmly picked up the discarded diamond band and handed it to his solicitor. Earlier he accused her of spending over 200,000 of his money, which was supposed to go towards a home for the loved-up couple.



They met in a hospital cafe in 2009, but Mr Penfold claimed the perfect relationship came to an end in 2015 when he caught her with another man. He came home unexpectedly to find his younger lover with a doctor in the house, he told the judge.



The tree importer and exporter, of Lydia Park, Cranleigh, said the relationship was a happy one for years and they got engaged in 2013. But the weeping businessman was so shaken up by his completely shocking discovery that Miss Garikayi had to take him to A&E, the court heard.



She claimed they split up earlier, in June 2015, because he had got together with another woman, with whom he now has a child. Mr Penfold was still married to another woman when he first started seeing Miss Garikayi, but he said the marriage had not been close.



His wife was comfortable with his new relationship, and Mr Penfold said: Ive never been unfaithful to anyone in my life. The court heard 218,000 had been paid into Miss Garikayis account after Mr Penfold sold two investment properties.



Insisting the money was a gift, she said that, throughout the relationship,

Nurse Trish Garikayi, 37, said she was a given a Porsche 911 and a 100,000 diamond bracelet from Aspreys by a love-struck businessman, Wisdom Penfold, 58. But Mr. Penfold claimed their relationship turned sour after he caught her in bed with another man.The pair ended up locked in a bitter court battle over money. And a judge at Central London County Court has ruled that she misappropriated money Mr Penfold entrusted to her when blinded by love.Miss Garikayi has been ordered to repay him 116,000, lawyers bills, plus a 20% share of her 340,000 home. She earlier claimed to be aand insisted that the money, like the luxury goods he lavished upon her, was a non-returnable gift. But Judge Alexander Hill-Smith said she had her eyes firmly on winning the case and unhesitatingly preferred Mr. Penfolds account of events. After the judge announced his decision, Miss Garikayi hurled her 2,500 engagement ring across the courtroom towards her ex-fiance.Mr Penfold calmly picked up the discarded diamond band and handed it to his solicitor. Earlier he accused her of spending over 200,000 of his money, which was supposed to go towards a home for the loved-up couple.They met in a hospital cafe in 2009, but Mr Penfold claimed the perfect relationship came to an end in 2015 when he caught her with another man. He came home unexpectedly to find his younger lover with a doctor in the house, he told the judge.The tree importer and exporter, of Lydia Park, Cranleigh, said the relationship was a happy one for years and they got engaged in 2013. But the weeping businessman was so shaken up by his completely shocking discovery that Miss Garikayi had to take him to A&E, the court heard.She claimed they split up earlier, in June 2015, because he had got together with another woman, with whom he now has a child. Mr Penfold was still married to another woman when he first started seeing Miss Garikayi, but he said the marriage had not been close.His wife waswith his new relationship, and Mr Penfold said:The court heard 218,000 had been paid into Miss Garikayis account after Mr Penfold sold two investment properties.Insisting the money was a gift, she said that, throughout the relationship, Quote if I wanted something, I would get it. As far as the discussion I had with Wisdom, they were gifts to me, she told the judge. We were in love, the relationship was strong at that point. So there was no need for me to question or query.



Her solicitor, Chike Ezike, added:

Quote The nature of the relationship was one where Mr Penfold bestowed and showered Miss Garikayi with lavish gifts.



Treating her as a kept woman, he gave her a Porsche, a BMW and a Mercedes and the 100,000 bracelet, the court was told. And they enjoyed high-end holidays together to Paris, Spain, Indonesia and Dubai, he added. Mr Ezike claimed that Mr Penfold also regularly gave her large sums of money with no expectation that she would ever pay him back.



But, denying that he had been so generous, Mr Penfold said:

Treating her as a, he gave her a Porsche, a BMW and a Mercedes and the 100,000 bracelet, the court was told. And they enjoyed high-end holidays together to Paris, Spain, Indonesia and Dubai, he added. Mr Ezike claimed that Mr Penfold also regularly gave her large sums of money with no expectation that she would ever pay him back.But, denying that he had been so generous, Mr Penfold said: Quote I think if I gave 100,000 for a bracelet I would quite remember it. I think it would be welded in my brain for the rest of my life.



He accepted that he brought Miss Garikayi everything from the little pink pigs out of M&S that she liked, and a Burberry coat and Jimmy Choo shoes.

But he told the judge that he He accepted that he brought Miss Garikayi everything from the little pink pigs out of M&S that she liked, and a Burberry coat and Jimmy Choo shoes.But he told the judge that he Quote did not give her large sums of money and had never bought her a car.



The 218,000 was placed in Miss Garikayis account as a sign of the seriousness of their relationship, said his barrister, Richard Alford. They were looking to start a family together, but it was implausible that Mr Penfold would give her such a large gift, he added.



He raised the cash with a view to buying a family home and she indicated that he should pay the money into her account to demonstrate his trust for her.

He did as requested, instructing her that the funds were to be held in the account and not used unless he said so, added Mr Alford.



But instead, she spent some of the money on herself and used 91,000 to buy a property in Harare, Zimbabwe, without his permission, the barrister claimed.



Mr Penfold also claimed he was entitled to a share in a property in Chaucer Court, Guildford, Miss Garikayi bought for 275,000 in 2015.



He said he had paid the 35,000 deposit as well as refurbishment costs and two mortgage payments. She denied they had ever planned to buy a property together and said she bought her home on her own with no involvement whatsoever from Mr Penfold.



But Judge Hill-Smith ruled:

The 218,000 was placed in Miss Garikayis account as a sign of the seriousness of their relationship, said his barrister, Richard Alford. They were looking to start a family together, but it was implausible that Mr Penfold would give herhe added.He raised the cash with a view to buying a family home and she indicated that he should pay the money into her account to demonstrate his trust for her.He did as requested, instructing her that the funds were to be held in the account and not used unless he said so, added Mr Alford.But instead, she spent some of the money on herself and used 91,000 to buy a property in Harare, Zimbabwe, without his permission, the barrister claimed.Mr Penfold also claimed he was entitled to a share in a property in Chaucer Court, Guildford, Miss Garikayi bought for 275,000 in 2015.He said he had paid the 35,000 deposit as well as refurbishment costs and two mortgage payments. She denied they had ever planned to buy a property together and said she bought her home on her own with no involvement whatsoever from Mr Penfold. Quote I unhesitatingly prefer the evidence of Mr Penfoldhe gave his evidence in a careful way. His written statement is thorough and comprehensive and presents a coherent account of what occurred.



The judge said he was very much in love with Miss Garikayi and as far as he was concerned it was a perfect relationship.



The judge said he was very much in love with Miss Garikayi and as far as he was concerned it was a perfect relationship. Quote I find his account of the break-up of the relationship, his returning to the house, his reaction to it, going to A&E and being badly affected, compelling. Her account of the breakdown of the relationship was very unspecific, the judge added. It lacked the human qualities that one would find in a breakdown of a long-term relationship like this.



Miss Garikayi had her Miss Garikayi had her Quote eyes firmly on winning the case and the judge said: I do not find her to have been consistent in her defence.

The documentary evidence, I find, supports the account of Mr Penfold and not Miss Garikayi.



The judge ruled that the cash paid into her account, far from being a gift to a kept woman, was held on trust by her for Mr Penfold. She spent 91,000 on the Zimbabwe property in breach of trust and the judge ruled she had also misappropriated 25,000 of his money.



He accepted that Mr Penfold had contributed 35,000 towards the Chaucer Court deposit, as well as paying for refurbishments and two mortgage payments. That came to a total of 60,000, entitling Mr Penfold to a 20% stake in Miss Garikayis home, now valued at 340,000.

The judge ruled that the cash paid into her account, far from being a gift to a kept woman, was held on trust by her for Mr Penfold. She spent 91,000 on the Zimbabwe property in breach of trust and the judge ruled she had also misappropriated 25,000 of his money.He accepted that Mr Penfold had contributed 35,000 towards the Chaucer Court deposit, as well as paying for refurbishments and two mortgage payments. That came to a total of 60,000, entitling Mr Penfold to a 20% stake in Miss Garikayis home, now valued at 340,000. Quote I do find as a fact that the parties were intending this as a joint home together, the judge said. I have accepted Mr Penfolds evidence and essentially found for him on all the financial issues.



Miss Garikayi was given six months to buy him out, or her home would be sold and the proceeds divided. Mr Penfolds lawyers say they will be seeking 62,000 in costs against Miss Garikayi, and the judge ordered her to pay 30,000 of that within 21 days. Miss Garikayi was given six months to buy him out, or her home would be sold and the proceeds divided. Mr Penfolds lawyers say they will be seeking 62,000 in costs against Miss Garikayi, and the judge ordered her to pay 30,000 of that within 21 days.

Post Reply I am a metro reporter on Gistmania, I have been publishing news materials for over 5 years Posted: at 3-12-2018 01:36 PM (2 years ago) | HeroBishop David Oyedepo Also Claims That President Muhammadu Buhari Died In London (Video)

clarajancita at 3-12-2018 03:45 PM (2 years ago) (f)

In a video currently trending on social media, General overseer of the Living faith Church aka Winners Chapel, David Oyedepo is heard validating claims that President Muhammadu Buhari died in London and that Nigeria is being ruled by his double.

In a video currently trending on social media, General overseer of the Living faith Church aka Winners Chapel, David Oyedepo is heard validating claims that President Muhammadu Buhari died in London and that Nigeria is being ruled by his double.

According to Bishop Oyedepo, in the viral video, the Presidency reached an agreement with Jubrils Family in Sudan, stating that 50% of all Nigerias earnings, will be given to the family for 10 years to cover up the truth about Buharis death and replacement  And now, Nigeria is being recolonized, this time, by another African Nation.



See video...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IxxXaZQBBA&feature=youtu.be According to Bishop Oyedepo, in the viral video, the Presidency reached an agreement with Jubrils Family in Sudan, stating that 50% of all Nigerias earnings, will be given to the family for 10 years to cover up the truth about Buharis death and replacement  And now, Nigeria is being recolonized, this time, by another African Nation.See video...

Post Reply I am a metro reporter on Gistmania, I have been publishing news materials for over 5 years Posted: at 3-12-2018 03:45 PM (2 years ago) | Hero

james987 at 3-12-2018 04:00 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Una hear am? Doubting Thomas them. For buhari to stay months for inside hospital na huge plots. Make una no vote out APC and face the consequences. I balme Jonathan for handing over. Buhari is dead!!! Posted: at 3-12-2018 04:00 PM (2 years ago) | Hero Una hear am?Doubting Thomas them. For buhari to stay months for inside hospital na huge plots. Make una no vote out APC and face the consequences. I balme Jonathan for handing over. Buhari is dead!!! Reply

Knowman at 3-12-2018 04:02 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Poster you are an asssshole. What kind of fake news is this, he was quoting shit from paper which can never be confirm truth or lie. He is a man of God as claimed ,why not he pray for find the truth then proheise, your caption is misleading . Alot of blind minded ewes will read this and start carrying the rumor around . Posted: at 3-12-2018 04:02 PM (2 years ago) | Upcoming Poster you are an asssshole. What kind of fake news is this, he was quoting shit from paper which can never be confirm truth or lie. He is a man of God as claimed ,why not he pray for find the truth then proheise, your caption is misleading . Alot of blind minded ewes will read this and start carrying the rumor around . Reply

fineboy77 at 3-12-2018 04:19 PM (2 years ago)

(m) The truth will soon be out NK,gave the info,people doubted him,but the truth is now about to be out. What is the color beneath your skin? Posted: at 3-12-2018 04:19 PM (2 years ago) | Hero The truth will soon be out NK,gave the info,people doubted him,but the truth is now about to be out. Reply

fineboy77 at 3-12-2018 04:20 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Quote from: Knowman on 3-12-2018 04:02 PM Poster you are an asssshole. What kind of fake news is this, he was quoting shit from paper which can never be confirm truth or lie. He is a man of God as claimed ,why not he pray for find the truth then proheise, your caption is misleading . Alot of blind minded ewes will read this and start carrying the rumor around .

I see no bigger fool here than you !.....,yes he read it from a paper....,and then said what? What is the color beneath your skin? Posted: at 3-12-2018 04:20 PM (2 years ago) | Hero I see no bigger fool here than you !.....,yes he read it from a paper....,and then said what? Reply

ignis99 at 3-12-2018 04:30 PM (2 years ago)

(m) This is serious oo Posted: at 3-12-2018 04:30 PM (2 years ago) | Gistmaniac This is serious oo Reply

proly at 3-12-2018 07:33 PM (2 years ago)

(f) Only GOD knows the truth Posted: at 3-12-2018 07:33 PM (2 years ago) | Hero Only GOD knows the truth Reply

kacylee at 3-12-2018 07:38 PM (2 years ago)

(f) hmmm. only God knows the truth and will save Nigeria, cos this so called rumour is becoming realer I have been reporting for several years now and I am very interested in visual news reportage with strong inclusion of photos and video multimedia. Posted: at 3-12-2018 07:38 PM (2 years ago) | Addicted Hero hmmm. only God knows the truth and will save Nigeria, cos this so called rumour is becoming realer Reply

Knowman at 3-12-2018 07:51 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Quote from: fineboy77 on 3-12-2018 04:20 PM I see no bigger fool here than you !.....,yes he read it from a paper....,and then said what?

Fine boy, you are a he daughter of an ewe. English is not your mother tongue and you make no effort to learn. I dont blame low life bums like you. Go back and listen to his prayer request ,I guess prayer request is now prophesy. A*#S ,you are bigger than a dumbass Posted: at 3-12-2018 07:51 PM (2 years ago) | Upcoming Fine boy, you are a he daughter of an ewe. English is not your mother tongue and you make no effort to learn. I dont blame low life bums like you. Go back and listen to his prayer request ,I guess prayer request is now prophesy. A*#S ,you are bigger than a dumbass Reply

Mykie010 at 3-12-2018 09:19 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Quote from: Knowman on 3-12-2018 07:51 PM Fine boy, you are a he daughter of an ewe. English is not your mother tongue and you make no effort to learn. I dont blame low life bums like you. Go back and listen to his prayer request ,I guess prayer request is now prophesy. A*#S ,you are bigger than a dumbass

is that why u will call him names, because u live in the projects in America, u think u have arrived, they will soon deport u. Posted: at 3-12-2018 09:19 PM (2 years ago) | Gistmaniac is that why u will call him names, because u live in the projects in America, u think u have arrived, they will soon deport u. Reply

dareper at 3-12-2018 09:20 PM (2 years ago)

(m) The truth is gradually coming out. Eyes opened. Posted: at 3-12-2018 09:20 PM (2 years ago) | Hero The truth is gradually coming out. Eyes opened. Reply

Jarvisq at 3-12-2018 09:55 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Quote from: Knowman on 3-12-2018 04:02 PM Poster you are an asssshole. What kind of fake news is this, he was quoting shit from paper which can never be confirm truth or lie. He is a man of God as claimed ,why not he pray for find the truth then proheise, your caption is misleading . Alot of blind minded ewes will read this and start carrying the rumor around .

Young man you are so stupid infact you are are an imbecile, your every word shows you are so helpless and shameless. Idiot. Don't worry they will jail you and inject you where ever you are. Im giving you those words as a promise.

is that why u will call him names, because u live in the projects in America, u think u have arrived, they will soon deport u.

[/quote] Posted: at 3-12-2018 09:55 PM (2 years ago) | Newbie Young man you are so stupid infact you are are an imbecile, your every word shows you are so helpless and shameless. Idiot. Don't worry they will jail you and inject you where ever you are. Im giving you those words as a promise.is that why u will call him names, because u live in the projects in America, u think u have arrived, they will soon deport u.[/quote] Reply

fineboy77 at 3-12-2018 10:17 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Quote from: Knowman on 3-12-2018 07:51 PM Fine boy, you are a he daughter of an ewe. English is not your mother tongue and you make no effort to learn. I dont blame low life bums like you. Go back and listen to his prayer request ,I guess prayer request is now prophesy. A*#S ,you are bigger than a dumbass

Look at this low life,if you saw any errors in my English,that is just because you are an illiterate. I guess it will be better for you to re-read what you wrote,thats if your blind mind will be able to pick out the errors. I am not used to replying fools like you,but when you direct your ignorance to the public,then you stand to be corrected and put in your place. @Mykie,you think this vagabond has seen any borders?,you are wrong,he is just a yahoo boy spewing rubbish online. What is the color beneath your skin? Posted: at 3-12-2018 10:17 PM (2 years ago) | Hero Look at this low life,if you saw any errors in my English,that is just because you are an illiterate. I guess it will be better for you to re-read what you wrote,thats if your blind mind will be able to pick out the errors. I am not used to replying fools like you,but when you direct your ignorance to the public,then you stand to be corrected and put in your place. @Mykie,you think this vagabond has seen any borders?,you are wrong,he is just a yahoo boy spewing rubbish online. Reply

fineboy77 at 3-12-2018 10:24 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Quote from: Mykie010 on 3-12-2018 09:19 PM is that why u will call him names, because u live in the projects in America, u think u have arrived, they will soon deport u.

Thats what low lifes do. they use other peoples pictures to create fake profiles and then come here to vomit rubbish. What is the color beneath your skin? Posted: at 3-12-2018 10:24 PM (2 years ago) | Hero Thats what low lifes do. they use other peoples pictures to create fake profiles and then come here to vomit rubbish. Reply

Knowman at 3-12-2018 10:45 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Quote from: Mykie010 on 3-12-2018 09:19 PM is that why u will call him names, because u live in the projects in America, u think u have arrived, they will soon deport u.

Homie, I dont live in projects GOD FORBID. I worked hard to be where I am, I have being homeless in America too but ALL THANKS TO GOD WHO DELIVERED AND BLESSED ME. I can't be deported because I am an American, you should have read what got me calling him names but chose to make your statement. Your entire generation will die of poverty for sticking your stinking mouth in something you know nothing about and talking of deportation. You can't see abroad phyuking c*@t , not to talk of deportation honeypot Posted: at 3-12-2018 10:45 PM (2 years ago) | Upcoming Homie, I dont live in projects GOD FORBID. I worked hard to be where I am, I have being homeless in America too but ALL THANKS TO GOD WHO DELIVERED AND BLESSED ME. I can't be deported because I am an American, you should have read what got me calling him names but chose to make your statement. Your entire generation will die of poverty for sticking your stinking mouth in something you know nothing about and talking of deportation. You can't see abroad phyuking c*@t , not to talk of deportation honeypot Reply

Knowman at 3-12-2018 10:49 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Quote from: fineboy77 on 3-12-2018 10:17 PM Look at this low life,if you saw any errors in my English,that is just because you are an illiterate. I guess it will be better for you to re-read what you wrote,thats if your blind mind will be able to pick out the errors. I am not used to replying fools like you,but when you direct your ignorance to the public,then you stand to be corrected and put in your place. @Mykie,you think this vagabond has seen any borders?,you are wrong,he is just a yahoo boy spewing rubbish online.

I graduated from university of Nigeria nsukka years back, got to USA and went to MSU, still as undergraduate, got my master's after that. Calling me low life when your ass might be working in my company in Nigeria. Idiot am bigger than your entire generation. I have more brain, education, life and money than your whole family put together. My last son wouldn't be competing with you dumbass. Go and get a life fool Posted: at 3-12-2018 10:49 PM (2 years ago) | Upcoming I graduated from university of Nigeria nsukka years back, got to USA and went to MSU, still as undergraduate, got my master's after that. Calling me low life when your ass might be working in my company in Nigeria. Idiot am bigger than your entire generation. I have more brain, education, life and money than your whole family put together. My last son wouldn't be competing with you dumbass. Go and get a life fool Reply

fineboy77 at 3-12-2018 11:08 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Quote from: Knowman on 3-12-2018 10:49 PM I graduated from university of Nigeria nsukka years back, got to USA and went to MSU, still as undergraduate, got my master's after that. Calling me low life when your ass might be working in my company in Nigeria. Idiot am bigger than your entire generation. I have more brain, education, life and money than your whole family put together. My last son wouldn't be competing with you dumbass. Go and get a life fool

Hahahahahahaaaaa!!!,Fool knows me too well,and he is the richest man in the world !!!!. Come on shut up!!. Maybe you did pre-science at UNN cos your English doesn't support your GRADUATE theory. Talking about company,whats the name of your company?,isn't it that little poultry in your village?,Abeg spare me this laughter,my ribs are hurting. What is the color beneath your skin? Posted: at 3-12-2018 11:08 PM (2 years ago) | Hero Hahahahahahaaaaa!!!,Fool knows me too well,and he is the richest man in the world !!!!. Come on shut up!!. Maybe you did pre-science at UNN cos your English doesn't support your GRADUATE theory. Talking about company,whats the name of your company?,isn't it that little poultry in your village?,Abeg spare me this laughter,my ribs are hurting. Reply

olowoinlionsden at 3-12-2018 11:18 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Hmmm, some of these people don't want to forgive Buhari because of the attempt he made to retire them from their gold mines on the account of overstay in those religious organizations. Posted: at 3-12-2018 11:18 PM (2 years ago) | Gistmaniac Hmmm, some of these people don't want to forgive Buhari because of the attempt he made to retire them from their gold mines on the account of overstay in those religious organizations. Reply

Knowman at 3-12-2018 11:41 PM (2 years ago)

(m) Quote from: fineboy77 on 3-12-2018 11:08 PM Hahahahahahaaaaa!!!,Fool knows me too well,and he is the richest man in the world !!!!. Come on shut up!!. Maybe you did pre-science at UNN cos your English doesn't support your GRADUATE theory. Talking about company,whats the name of your company?,isn't it that little poultry in your village?,Abeg spare me this laughter,my ribs are hurting.

Keep loading your data coz am on your ass fag. Unn dont do prescience . I have seen your level of education. " poultry" , no sir, I have " ain't naming it " investments Ltd ( import and export ) , I have " aint naming it " petroleum and some other buildings. Idiot we are never ever on same level. Like I said , non of your family members can measure with my last child. Find your mate ,am bigger and more sensible than your entire generation born and unborn Posted: at 3-12-2018 11:41 PM (2 years ago) | Upcoming Keep loading your data coz am on your ass fag. Unn dont do prescience . I have seen your level of education. " poultry" , no sir, I have " ain't naming it " investments Ltd ( import and export ) , I have " aint naming it " petroleum and some other buildings. Idiot we are never ever on same level. Like I said , non of your family members can measure with my last child. Find your mate ,am bigger and more sensible than your entire generation born and unborn ReplyRussias latest global cyberthreats fuel tensions over Ukraine, Reveals Zero Day Live from Stealthcare

December 2018 by Jeremy Samide, CEO of Stealthcare

Despite Russian government denials, Zero Day Live (ZDL) the threat intelligence platform from Stealthcare, has detected Russia launching numerous cyberattacks last week that threaten not only Ukraine, but governments and private organizations worldwide.

The cyberattacks are in keeping with Russias effort to extend Soviet-style hegemony worldwidefar beyond regional sea skirmishes with Ukraine, according to Jeremy Samide CEO of Stealthcare.

These Russian cyberthreat actors often have the surname bear with two of the most infamous bears being the Russian government-linked Fancy Bear and Cozy Bearthe same threat actors responsible for numerous high-profile espionage attacks including the 2016 breach of the Democratic National Committee, noted Samide.

In addition to Fancy Bear and Cozy Bear, the Russia-linked threat actor Gamaredon stepped up its global attacks last week according to the Stealthcare Zero Day Live Threat Intelligence platform, and its team of threat intelligence experts uncovered the Russian breaches.

Samide explained how these attacks work: One of the threats remotely loads a series of weaponized document templates containing a malicious macro. The weaponized documents, attributed to Fancy Bear, targeted government entities in North America, Europe, and a former Soviet state. The first stage of the malware is a packed Zebrocy variant that gathers system information and shares it with the C2 server. The C2 subsequently responds with a secondary payload that appears to be functionally similar to Zebrocy but proves to be a malicious tool named Cannon. Once inside the gates, the trojan functions primarily as a downloader that relies on emails to communicate between the trojan and the C2 server. Attackers use C2 or command and control servers to communicate with the compromised system.

Phishing emails from a bogus US State Department address

Cobalt Strike Beacon, a new backdoor campaign by Cozy Bear also emerged recently and was seen running a phishing campaign targeting multiple sectorsamong them think tanks, law enforcement, media, US military, the transportation industry, pharmaceutical companies, national governments, and defense contractors. The phishing emails purport to be from the US State Department but contain malicious Windows shortcuts, Samide said.

Several elements from this campaignincluding the resources invested in the phishing email and network infrastructure, the metadata from the weaponized shortcut file payload, and the specific victim individuals and organizations targeted, are linked directly to the Cozy Bear phishing campaign of November 2016.

Closer to home, a new backdoor attacker has been targeting Ukrainian government agencies. The backdoor, dubbed Pterodo, is associated with the Gamaredon threat group that relies largely on off-the-shelf software and primarily focuses on Ukrainian military and government targets.

Pterodo is a custom backdoor that inserts other malware and collects sensitive information. Along with Gamaredon group, it has been tied to Russias Federal Security Service (FSB), alongside the Cozy Bear group, noted Samide.

The global and regional cyberattacks are in addition to open conflict that started when four Russian FSB vessels confronted three boats from Ukraine that were sailing from Odessa to Mariupol, a major Ukrainian port on the Azov sea. Tensions escalated when, on November 28, Russian FSB border guards opened fire on two Ukrainian gunboats and a tug before seizing their Ukrainian crews, according to BBC.Latvian English

Riga, 2018-12-03 11:31 CET (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

 Electronic system development and manufacturing company HansaMatrix gets EUR 10 million financing from the EIB, backed by the Juncker Plan.

 This is the first financing for a private company in Latvia with support under the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), the heart of the Juncker Plan.

 Funding will support HansaMatrix investment plan, meant to expand manufacturing capacity and boost research, development and innovation to develop its services.

The EIB has signed a EUR 10 million financing agreement with AS HansaMatrix of Latvia, to expand its manufacturing capacity and build a more all-round business model. The facility is made possible by the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), the core of the Investment Plan for Europe, and was supported in the initial stages by Latvian investment agency ALTUM.

The financing will support HansaMatrix ongoing growth strategy and the ongoing shift from manufacturing towards offering a full range of services, including value added design, engineering and aftermarket services. The financing will also help the company boost its research and development activities, as well as advance its LightSpace Technologies 3D-image display technology. All investments will be located in Latvia, at the company's existing sites near Riga, Parogre and Ventspils.

EIBs Vice President Alexander Stubb commented: Today is a great day as were financing the first private sector project in Latvia with the support of the Juncker Plan, which I also think is a great signal about - and towards - the market. For the Bank, innovation has been a top priority for some time now, and its great to see yet another example of cutting-edge technology business coming from a Baltic country.

European Commission Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis said: "I'm pleased to see that the financing under the Juncker Plan is going now also to the private companies of the manufacturing sector. I hope that more Latvian companies follow the same example soon, as the Juncker Plan represents an opportunity for businesses to get access to much needed finance, launch new products and expand beyond their local markets."

HansaMatrix CEO Ilmars Osmanis added: Our long voyage with the EIB team reaches completion today with this excellent event  the signing of a financing agreement. We are proud to be recognized by the EIB for being innovative and worthwhile to invest in. The results that made this possible are due to the motivated work of the whole HansaMatrix team, with a contribution from every team member. And I wish today to say thank you to every single HansaMatrix employee.

Latvia currently ranks sixth in the EU in terms of investments triggered by the EFSI relative to GDP, with already a number of deals signed with financial intermediaries or public bodies. This investment is the first EFSI financing to a corporate company in the country.

The investment project is expected to contribute to the further development of Latvian industrial sector and the creation of skilled jobs. As the EIB financing can only cover up to 50% of any project, the funding is to be complemented with AS HansaMatrix own capital, commercial bank lending and EU funds grants.

Contact for investors:

Maris Macijevskis, CFA

Member of the Management Board, Finance director

Phone: (+371) 6780 0002

E-mail: invest@hansamatrix.com

http://www.hansamatrix.com

Background information

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. It makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals. In the last five years, the EIB has provided over EUR 460 million euros in financing to Latvian projects, including the Tram in Riga and the University of Latvia.

HansaMatrix is a Latvian electronics manufacturing company active in the engineering and electronics sectors. The company designs, produces and assembles electronic printed circuit boards (PCB's) and other electronic components for data networks, industrial products, Internet of Things (IoT) appliances and other applications. HansaMatrix is based in Riga, Ogre and Ventspils in Latvia and serves European business customers, mostly in the Baltics and Northern Europe.

The Investment Plan for Europe focuses on strengthening European investments to create jobs and growth. It does so by making smarter use of new and existing financial resources, removing obstacles to investment, and providing visibility and technical assistance to investment projects. The European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) is the central pillar of the Juncker Plan. So far, the projects and agreements approved for financing under the EFSI are expected to mobilise over EUR 360 billion in investments in Europe, including EUR 960 million in Latvia, and support around 850,000 SMEs across all 28 Member States, including 7,300 in Latvia. Find the latest EFSI figures by sector and by country here, or see the FAQs.

ALTUM is the European Investment Banks (EIB) consultation point in Latvia, aiming to help and advise companies in getting EIB-support benefiting from the European Fund for Strategic Investments. ALTUM supports Latvian project promoters in the initial stages, before application submission to the EIB. ALTUM is happy that an innovative company, producing goods with high added value, such as HansaMatrix, has got the opportunity to receive financing from the EIB, which will help it grow and develop.

Press contacts:

EIB: Tim Smit Tel: +352 4379 89076, +352 691 286423, t.smit@eib.org  Twitter: @EIB

European Commission: Sophie Dupin de Saint-Cyr, +32 460 76 43 07, sophie.dupin-de-saint-cyr@ec.europa.eu

HansaMatrix : Zanda Lapane, zanda.lapane@hansamatrix.com, +371 200 77770

ALTUM: Lija Vitolina, Lija.Vitolina@altum.lv, +371 265 162 50English Finnish

St1 NORDIC COMPANY RELEASE, December 3rd, 2018 at 2PM EET

In November 2017 Alimentation Couche-Tard decided to sell 100% of the shares in Statoil Fuel & Retail Marine AS (SFR Marine) to St1 Norge AS, a subsidiary of St1 Nordic Oy. The conditions imposed by the Norwegian Competition Authority have been fulfilled and the sale has now been approved and the ownership of all the shares in SFR Marine have changed.

SFR Marine delivers fuel to the marine sector along the Norwegian coast. All SFR Marines employees will remain employed by the same legal entity as before the sale and the customer offer will not be changed due to the transaction.



The Norwegian Competition Authority imposed a condition to divest St1s existing marine business in the Stavanger region, and it has been sold to Bunker Oil.

We are glad that the process has now been completed, so we can focus on our new customers and strengthen our presence in the Norwegian market, says Mika Wiljanen, CEO of St1 Norge AS.

The teams on both sides have done a great job in making this happen. We are confident that this transaction will ensure development of the marine business, says Christoffer Sundby, Senior Vice President Norway in Circle K.







For further information, please contact:

Mika Wiljanen, CEO, St1 Norge AS, +358 40 1946 784, mika.wiljanen@st1.fi

Liisa Joenpolvi, Communications Manager St1 Nordic Oy, + 358 50 4110 025, liisa.joenpolvi@st1.fi

Pal Heldaas, Senior Director Communication, Circle K AS, +47 97 07 97 63, palhel@circlekeurope.com



Governments around the nation are working to design the best vaccine policies that keep both their employees and their residents safe. Although the latest data shows a variety of polarizing perspectives, there are clear emerging best practices that leading governments are following to put trust first: creating policies that are flexible and provide a range of options, and being in tune with the needs and sentiments of their employees so that they are able to be dynamic and accommodate the rapidly changing situation.The chairman of the North Carolina State Board of Elections announced Saturday he is resigning amidst a controversy over his social media and an ongoing investigation into alleged voter fraud in the 9th Congressional District race.Andy Penry stepped down as leader of the nine-person board, effective immediately. In a statement to The News & Observer, he said he is doing so on his own accord because its in the best interest of the investigation.The investigation of criminal conduct and absentee voting fraud in the 2018 Republican primary and 2018 general election in Congressional District 9 is a matter of vital importance to our democracy, he said in his statement. The investigation should be free of attempts at distraction and obstruction so that the truth can be revealed. I will not allow myself to be used as an instrument of distraction in this investigation.The Washington Post first reported the resignation.A former Dallas police officer who walked into an unarmed man's apartment on Sept. 6 and shot him while wearing her police uniform has been indicted on a charge of murder.The Dallas County grand jury began hearing the case against Amber Guyger, 30, on Monday. Guyger was originally charged with manslaughter in the shooting death of 26-year-old Botham Shem Jean. She was released from jail on a $300,000 bond about an hour after turning herself in.District Attorney Faith Johnson said that by 3 p.m., Guyger had turned herself back in on the murder charge. Her bond was transferred and she has been released.Asked why the grand jury indicted Guyger on a murder charge, Johnson said, "We presented the evidence and explained the law." She added that the law prohibits her from talking about the evidence presented to the grand jury.She said her office had a "very spirited conversation" with the Texas Rangers, the lead investigators in the case, back in September."They chose to file this case as manslaughter," she said. "We did our own investigation."She said that prosecutors talked to more than 300 witnesses.Guyger has said she mistook Jean's apartment at the South Side Flats for hers that night after getting off a long work shift, Dallas police said. Court documents have varied on the story of how Guyger got Jean's door open.The Fort Worth Star-Telegram, along with several other media outlets, have requested copies of the 911 call Guyger made after the shooting, along with body camera footage worn by the officers who responded. The Dallas Police Department has declined to release that information and sent the open records requests to the attorney general for final determination.Guyger was not wearing a body camera. The department said officers leave their body cameras at work after their shift.Johnson, who was voted out of office in the Nov. 6 election, will not see the case through to a trial and said Friday that she "trusts the DA-elect will continue to represent this family (and all of Dallas County) as he seeks justice for victims."Johnson also spoke about why it took her office two months to bring the case in front of a grand jury. She said she wanted to make sure the jury had everything they needed to "make the right choice.""We thought it was murder all along," she said. "But we didn't file this case ... but we did what we had to do get this case ready for the grand jury. Justice is never too long."Moving forward, it could be more than a year before Guyger sits in front of a judge and jury. It took 16 months, Johnson said, for the case against former cop Roy Oliver to go to trial. Oliver shot and killed 15-year-old Jordan Edwards while on duty as a Balch Springs police officer. He was found guilty of murder.Jean was a native of the Caribbean island of St. Lucia. After graduating from college in Arkansas, he moved to Dallas to work for PricewaterhouseCoopers.Jean's family filed a lawsuit against the City of Dallas and its Police Department in late October.Jean's family says in the suit that Guyger had a history of violence and used excessive force against Jean that fateful night in September, resulting in his wrongful death.The family also says the Dallas Police Department "has a pattern, practice, history and custom of using excessive force against minorities," and accuses it of not providing proper training or discipline for Guyger in the use of deadly force."By simply following proper police procedures and the best police practices and not the protocol of the DPD to 'shoot first and ask questions later,' Defendant Guyger would have not shot Jean," the lawsuit states. "Essentially, Officer Guyger was ill-trained, and as a result, defaulted to the defective DPD policy: to use deadly force even when there exists no immediate threat of harm to themselves or others."The Trump administration cannot withhold $29 million in federal money from New York and five other states that do not embrace harsh immigration policies, a judge wrote Friday, ruling that the effort violated the separation of powers.Manhattan Federal Judge Edgardo Ramos said the money from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program has to be distributed to the states, as well as New York City.Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions had spearheaded the effort to force "sanctuary" cities and states to implement policies such as allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement easier access to jails, prisons and citizenship information in exchange for the grant money."The separation of powers acts as a check on tyranny and the concentration of power," Ramos wrote."These conditions violate the separation of powers."The grant program is named after an NYPD cop, Edward Byrne, who was shot to death in 1988 while guarding the home of an immigrant targeted by gangs for reporting crimes in a Queens neighborhood."As we argued, local law enforcement has the right to decide how to meet their local public safety needs -- and the Trump administration simply does not have the right to require state and local police to act as federal immigration agents. The Trump administration's attempt to withhold these vital funds was nothing more than a political attack at the expense of our public safety," said State Attorney General Barbara Underwood.Ramos noted the city's basis for sanctuary policies that limit local authorities' cooperation with ICE."The City believes that these laws and policies are instrumental in maintaining the City's historically low crime rates by promoting trust and cooperation between the New York Police Department and the public, including immigrant communities that otherwise may retreat into the shadows if they believe that the police will share their information with federal immigration authorities," Ramos wrote.By contrast, the feds did produce any assessment of the consequences of withholding the money."Conspicuously absent from all of these documents is any discussion of the negative impacts that may result from imposing the conditions, and the record is devoid of any analysis that the perceived benefits outweigh these drawbacks," Ramos wrote.Mayor de Blasio said the ruling was a rebuke to President Trump's "fact-free claims" about immigration. The city was anticipating $4.3 million in crime-fighting funds through the program."The courts have spoken: President Trump's attempt to bully our city into enforcing his draconian immigration policies is unconstitutional," de Blasio said.The Justice Department has lost similar suits filed around the country.A Justice Department spokesman declined comment.by Reese Erlich





Im on a low-budget book tour, sleeping in spare bedrooms and munching granola in the kitchens of progressives all along the East Coast. Many had felt beaten down and pessimistic from two years of Trumpism. But I now sense some optimism and a renewed fighting spirit.





Just look at the surprising battle in the Senate over US participation in the Yemen War. On Nov. 28, Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Mike Lee (R-UT) co-sponsored a War Powers Resolution calling for an end to U.S. participation in the conflict. Trump tried to quash the effort, but 63 Democratic and Republican senators defied the administration and voted to discharge the bill from committee so it can be voted on as early as the first week of December.





Senators were reacting to Trumps failure to take decisive action against Saudi leaders responsible for the murder of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul.





But the Senate tumult also reflects the overwhelming American sentiment against the Yemen War, according to Cole Harrison, executive director of Massachusetts Peace Action and a friend.





Saudi Arabia has one of the most hated regimes in the Middle East, he told me. Its a repressive dictatorship. The murder of Khashoggi was just the spark that lit a fire.





Humanitarian crisis





In March of 2015 Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates began bombing Houthi rebels in Yemen. They claim the Houthis are controlled by Iran and part of an Iranian plan to dominate the region. In fact, the Houthis are an indigenous political Islamist movement allied with, but not controlled by Iran. The Saudi military promised a quick victory, but the war has dragged on for over three and a half years.





In June of this year Saudi Arabia and the UAE launched an offensive to seize the important port city of Hudaydah, declaring it would be a turning point in the war. Instead the offensive bogged down in a war of attrition, with no victory in sight.





International relief organizations now consider the Yemen War the worlds worst humanitarian crisis . The country faces a devastating cholera epidemic. An estimated 14 million Yemenis are on the brink of starvation and 85,000 children have already died of hunger. The Royal Saudi Air Force intentionally targets civilians according to a UN report and human rights groups.





The human rights community has played a key role in exposing Saudi atrocities, peace activist Harrison said.





Grassroots groups are also building opposition to the Yemen War. Four activist organizations took out full page ads in local daily newspapers urging support for the War Powers Act resolutions.





Eric Eikenberry, Director of Policy & Advocacy at the Yemen Peace Project, one of the groups sponsoring the ad, said, Many in the administration  inanely think that other countries will bear the brunt of both blame and accountability. With a potential famine impacting millions, we can only hope that Congress acts with more foresight, and more humanity.





A few Republican senators have also come out against the war, such as resolution co-sponsor Senator Mike Lee.





This is a war of bipartisan creation, he noted. A Democratic president has gotten us involved in a civil war in Yemen. We now have a Republican president, and that war has continued.





Potential presidential candidates Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders have spoken out against the war. Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA)) introduced a War Powers Act resolution in the House, but Republicans used parliamentary maneuvers to block its consideration. Democratic Party leaders have promised to allow debate on the anti-Yemen War resolution when they take control of the House in January.





Passage of the War Powers Act resolutions are far from certain. While Democrats won the majority in the House, conservative, mainstream Democrats will head key committees such as foreign affairs, intelligence and armed services.





Some good new Democrats were elected from whom we can expect a more progressive stand on foreign policy, but plenty of absolutely terrible Democrats were elected too, according to Howie Klein, founder of DWT, which specializes in analyzing the House of Representatives.





Dont rely on Congress





While the House and Senate debates are significant, dont hold your breath waiting for Congress to stop the war. Because the House cant vote on the resolution during the lame duck session, anything passed by the Senate would have to be re-introduced next year. Trump could veto the measure, thus requiring a two-thirds vote in both houses to override.





Thats why building a grassroots movement is so important. Peace activist Harrison admits that the anti-war movement is quite small these days. But he has seen increased activism on the issue of Israel and Palestine, and expects to see more interest in opposing Trumps other Middle East policies as well.





A recent opinion poll shows 75 percent of Americans oppose the Yemen War and 57 percent oppose all arms sales to Saudi Arabia. Increasing numbers of people are seeing the connection between Trumps disastrous domestic and foreign policies, according to Harrison.





The United States wastes trillions on war when we could use those funds for vital domestic programs, he said.





As I continue my book tour talking about The Iran Agenda Today, Ill keep readers posted on the growing anti-war sentiment and prospects for building a wider movement.Texas is suing the city of San Antonio for an alleged violation of the states new anti-sanctuary cities law, in the states first enforcement action against a city under the controversial statute.The lawsuit, filed Friday in Travis County District Court, centers on a December 2017 incident when San Antonio police discovered a trailer carrying 12 individuals from Guatemala who were suspected of being undocumented. The citys police department charged the driver with smuggling of persons, but released the migrants without involving federal immigration authorities, as the new law requires, according to the states lawsuit.The 2017 "sanctuary cities" law, known as Senate Bill 4, says police departments can't bar their officers from questioning the immigration status of people they detain or arrest. It also punishes local government department heads and elected officials who dont cooperate with federal immigration "detainers"  requests by agents to turn over immigrants subject to possible deportationSan Antonios police department policy states that officers will not refer individuals to Immigration and Customs and Enforcement unless they have a federal deportation warrant. That policy, the Texas lawsuit claims, prohibits and materially limits the enforcement of immigration laws.The lawsuit seeks hefty civil fees from the city, including a $25,500 penalty for nearly every day that the citys immigration procedures violated state law. The law went into effect Sept. 1, 2017  meaning those fees could amount to some $11.6 million.The lawsuit claims that San Antonio Police Chief William McManus personally called an immigration attorney from an advocacy organization and released the individuals without running background checks.Unfortunately, some municipalities, such as San Antonio, put the safety of police officers and the public at risk by defying state law, Attorney General Ken Paxton said in a news release.City Attorney Andy Segovia took issue with Paxton's characterization of events, saying the attorney general was clearly "aimed at furthering a political agenda.""While we need time to review the complaint, we are fully confident that neither the city nor Chief McManus violated the applicable provisions of [the law]," Segovia said in a statement. "The city has a long history of cooperating with federal authorities and we will continue to do so. The citys process for handling human smuggling/trafficking incidents was created in coordination with the federal government, and federal officials have not taken issue with our handling of immigration issues."Paxtons office has asked the court to issue an injunction requiring the city to comply with the new law, as well as assess major civil penalties against the city, police department and McManus.Thomas Saenz, president and general counsel of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, slammed the lawsuit, claiming it had "three obvious purposes: to intimidate and frighten immigrants in the state of Texas, to pressure Texas localities to violate constitutional rights, and to attract public attention for Paxton from the nativist fringe."On Friday, in the morning, at the Kedron Park Emergency Services Complex, Kedron, His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC visited the State Disaster Coordination Centre.

In the afternoon, at Government House, His Excellency and Mrs Kaye de Jersey hosted a luncheon for His Royal Highness The Duke of York.

Following, at Government House, His Excellency received the Clerk of the Parliament, Mr Neil Laurie, for the presentation of one Bill for Assent.

Following, at Government House, His Excellency received the Acting High Commissioner of Papua New Guinea to Australia, Mr Sakias Tameo, accompanied by Acting Consul-General for Papua New Guinea, Mr Jimmy Ovia, and Secretary, Department of Provincial and Local Affairs, Mr Dickson Guinea.

Following, at the State Library of Queensland, South Bank, His Excellency attended the Pitch@Palace Australia 2.0 final.

In the evening, at Government House, His Excellency and Mrs de Jersey hosted a dinner in honour of the visit to Queensland by His Royal Highness The Duke of York, and the Governor addressed guests.Description

GIS - 03 December, 2018: Government has agreed to the introduction of the Constitution (Electoral Reform) (Amendment) Bill into the National Assembly. The main object of the Bill is to reform certain aspects of the electoral system of Mauritius. Government has agreed to the introduction of the Constitution (Electoral Reform) (Amendment) Bill into the National Assembly.The main object of the Bill is to reform certain aspects of the electoral system of Mauritius.

Accordingly, the Bill amends the Constitution to provide for 63 seats in the Assembly for members representing constituencies, in lieu of 62, and in addition to the 63 constituency seats, 12 proportional representation seats (PR seats) and a maximum of 10 additional seats, with a view to ensuring wider representation of parties in the National Assembly.

In addition, the Bill does away with the requirement for the mandatory declaration as to the community to which a constituency candidate belongs to.

Moreover, in order to seek better gender representation in the National Assembly, the Bill provides that every party or party alliance shall present not more than two thirds of constituency candidates of the same sex and that every proportional representation list (PR list) submitted by a party or party alliance shall comprise not more than two thirds of persons of the same sex.

The Bill also provide s for anti-defection measures to enhance stability.Description

GIS  03 December, 2018: The Minister of Housing and Lands, Mr Purmanund Jhugroo effected a site visit at Longeres Toles, Tombeau Bay, on 30 November 2018, to take stock of the relocation progress of some 150 families who will benefit from housing units of the National Housing Development Company Ltd (NHDC).

The Minister of Social Integration and Economic Empowerment, Mr Alain Wong, the Minister of Labour, Industrial Relations, Employment and Training, Mr Soodesh Callichurn, the Managing Director of the NHDC, Mr Gilles LEntete, and other personalities were present on this occasion.

In a statement, Minister Jhugroo highlighted that these 150 families are being relocated in temporary shelters equipped with electricity meters, water supply facilities, individual bathrooms and toilets. He pointed out that, as at date, 96 families have been relocated in the temporary shelters. Government, he stated, will continue in its endeavours to provide assistance to upgrade the life of vulnerable families with a view to promote an equitable and inclusive Mauritian society.

The project, he underscored, to the tune of some Rs 250 million, consists of two phases: Phase one comprises the construction of 100 NHDC housing units of 60m2 in 2018-2019; and Phase two entails the building of 50 additional NHDC housing units in 2019-2020. Each housing unit will consist of a living room, a dining room, a kitchen, one bedroom, toilet and bathroom on the ground floor, and of two bedrooms and an open terrace on the first floor. The beneficiaries will also benefit from social support both before and after the remittance of keys of the housing units, he added.301,580 victims reported to FBI/IC3

4 billion victim losses reported to FBI/IC3

15 percent estimated number of victims who report cybercrime to FBI/IC3

Before, by pointing consumers and businesses to the best information from experts in cybersecurity education and awareness

During, by enabling a local, one-stop access to get someone on the phone who is empathic and responsive and can direct callers to the appropriate support based on crime type

After, by providing key contacts to guide in recovery and tools to prevent re-victimization

Cybercrime is growing. Last year, CNBC called cybercrime the fastest growing crime in America.Cybercrime is defined by Merriam-Webster as "criminal activity (such as fraud, theft, or distribution of child pornography) committed using a computer especially to illegally access, transmit, or manipulate data" or "an instance of such activity."Others describe cybercrime as "online crime" or "criminal activity that is primarily carried-out in cyberspace or on the Internet."Consider these cybercrime numbers from 2017:So whats being done to help victims of cybercrime? No doubt, there are many different answers to that question, but a new, coordinated answer has arrived that is gaining national attention, recognition, funding and other resources.The Cybercrime Support Network (CSN) is a public-private, nonprofit collaboration created to meet challenges facing millions of people and businesses affected each and every day by cybercrime CSNs mission is to improve the plight of Americans facing the ever growing impact of cybercrime by bringing together national partners to support cybercrime victims...But before diving deeper into the Cyber Crime Support Network, let me tell you about CSNs CEO and president, Kristin Judge Judge was a county commissioner in Washtenaw County, Mich., from 2008 to 2011. In October 2011, she joined the MS-ISAC as its director of Partner Engagement. In 2014, she joined the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), which leads National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) and staysafeonline.org , as a program lead and later as its director of Special Projects and Government Affairs.Judge has worked on many national cybersecurity issues in a variety of capacities. She has worked closely with the largest companies in the world as well as federal, state and local governments on various aspects of security awareness. She led many national seminars on cyber, like this NCSA roadshow on two-factor authentication I first met Kristin in 2011, when we partnered on the Michigan Cyber Summit, which was ground-breaking on numerous new cyberinitiatives with national significance. I was immediately impressed with Kristins fabulous people skills and project management and coordination abilities at a national (and even international) level. Kristin is truly gifted in public communication, but also shows the individual attention to people and is an expert on cybercrime topics, which is a rare combination. She is also kind and a true professional in every way, so I was delighted when she accepted my invitation to be interviewed on CSN.As a county elected official, I was approached by residents asking who to call for help with online fraud. That was back in 2011. I asked our local sheriff what was available from local law enforcement, and realized that law enforcement was not trained or staffed to support victims of certain online fraud and cybercrime. Discussions with 2-1-1 of Michigan started in 2011 and continued over the years. FBI, Michigan State Police and United Way World Wide started to join in the conversations.KJ: Currently we are working with federal, state and local law enforcement and consumer protection agencies to serve cybercrime and online fraud victims. Private-sector companies like AT&T, Comcast, Arbor Insight and Google are supporting our nonprofit and the Craig Newmark Philanthropies gave us a grant to build Fraudsupport.org and pay the salaries of our military family members on our staff. The Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crime has awarded CSN and our 211 partners multi-year federal grants to serve victims in west Michigan, central Florida and the state of Rhode Island as our pilot communities.KJ: Partners are helping us get the word out about our website and pilot programs through speaking engagements, webinars and newsletters. Sponsors are helping to fund our nonprofit so we can build consistent training, a national resource database and public service campaign. Sponsors from different private-sector areas are serving on our advisory board to help drive the direction of the programming we create.KJ: We are working through law enforcement national associations like the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the National Governors Association to get the message out to their members. As we receive grants to bring programming to a state, we work closely with state and local law enforcement and many times the state attorney general and governor's office.KJ: Since starting as a volunteer group in 2011 to understand the needs of cybercrime victims, the vision and goals have only grown larger. CSN is the only national group being a voice for this underserved victim class. We are working with domestic violence advocates, small business groups and other organizations we did anticipate. The scope of partners interested in helping us serve victims is greater than expected. It is encouraging to us every week when a new partner sees value in our work and wants to get involved. CSN is fortunate to work with groups like NW3C [National White Collar Crime Center], NCFTA [National Cyber-Forensics and Training Alliance] and the Cyber Threat Alliance to improve the data set of threats facing the American public.Kristin: Thanks!I want to thank Kristin for answer these questions on CSN.Last month, CSN launched FraudSupport.org . Here's an excerpt from that press release: "FraudSupport.org is a resource database for victims and law enforcement. As a public-private nonprofit, CSN is building FraudSupport.org as the first nationwide initiative developed specifically to help cybercrime and online fraud victims find help after an incident occurs. ..."I have no doubt that this effort will grow and mature over the next decade. The need is great, and the support already committed is fantastic. I expect to see their capabilities and partnerships to grow, and I encourage both public- and private-sector leaders to reach out to CSN to get involved.(TNS)  Emergency phone calls telling Paradise residents to run from the massive Camp Fire failed to reach more than a third of even the minority who signed up for the warnings, according to a data review byon Friday.Many of the towns residents said they relied on calls from alarmed relatives and the sight of approaching flames to flee from California's worst fire on Nov. 8. Logs released Friday show the official warning system reached fewer than 6,200 of the 27,000 who live in the ridge-top community.At least 88 people died in the blaze and more than 100 are still missing.The data underscore major flaws in a phone-based warning system that authorities have frequently relied upon in major disasters, including a string of catastrophic fires that have plagued California in the last two years.Call failure reports released by the Butte County Sheriffs Office at the request ofshow that the first evacuation orders requested by firefighters at the scene of the massive blaze frequently failed to connect. About as many calls went to voicemail as were answered by a live person.Even the calls that were answered went to only a fraction in Paradise  an estimated 30%  who subscribed to the phone-based CodeRed system contracted for by Butte County and owned by California-based OnSolve.The success rate dropped even further as the fire swept over Paradise and took down cellphone towers and panicked residents picked up their phones and jammed capacity in remaining cell lines. Logs show that more than half of some efforts to reach subscribed Paradise residents simply failed to go through.There were like seven to nine towers that went down, so that was huge, said Paradise Police Chief Eric Reinbold.The outages also forced the citys police department to abandon its dispatch center. Reinbold said he believed the fire interrupted efforts to send evacuation orders. He did not know that a full evacuation of the entire town was ever ordered.It just rolled through, he said.Cellphone companies must report to the state major incidents that cut communications, but those reports to the California Public Utilities Commission are confidential, said a commission spokeswoman.Leigh Bailey, whose Magalia neighborhood was placed under a mandatory evacuation order hours after the blaze began, said she never received an alert that day even though she had signed up for the CodeRed warning system. She first learned about the fire from a neighbor who didnt think it would threaten the town, so she went back inside to enjoy coffee cake and tea.By the time the 54-year-old realized she needed to leave, the main evacuation route was jammed with traffic. She had to navigate a dirt canyon road used by firefighters to escape.We never got a single notification. Nothing came over our cellphones, she said.Troy Harper, general manager of OnSolves public sector division, said a number of factors can delay CodeRed alerts from reaching their targets. Though the companys system  a network of 12 data centers around the world  can theoretically push out a message to hundreds of thousands of phones in one area in a minute, there is no telecommunications infrastructure in the United States set up to handle an influx that large, Harper said.In Northern California, he said, the system is generally limited to 2,000 to 4,000 calls a minute. As a result, neighbors can receive the same warning minutes or even hours apart. Such delays were found in Paradise, with more than half an hour delay in the receipt of emergency orders to leave.The system relies on the same cellphone towers and phone lines strung along power poles that residents are using to call 911, neighbors and relatives during an emergency. All that traffic at once can clog the system, further delaying messages going through, he said.The morning the Camp Fire began, CodeRed alerts hit a busy signal at twice the rate the company typically sees in an emergency, Harper said. He noted that the alert system also sent out texts and emails to those who signed up.Its not a blue sky day, so we expect to see some additional capacity on the infrastructure, he said. Thats why we always train our clients to use all modes of applicable communications.But the county did not use the federal Wireless Emergency Alert system that employs a separate frequency to send an Amber Alert-style tone, buzz and message to all cellphones in a specific area simultaneously."It's one of the tools in the toolbox," Harper said, adding that authorities can also use social media, go door-to-door with loudspeakers and employ the federal emergency alert system that reaches televisions and radios.Fridays reports come amid growing concern about the lack of warning residents received before the Camp Fire, which destroyed more than 14,000 homes.At a legislative hearing earlier this week, emergency experts and lawmakers pointed to numerous problems with the towns evacuation and said the state must work to improve its warning system.Paradise officials initially limited evacuation orders to just the side of town closest to the fire  hoping to keep the limited exit routes clear for those who needed to escape first.Some residents heard of the evacuation order from police cars driving by, barking the warnings through a loudspeaker. Others had to find out by door knocks or text messages from neighbors.The strategy failed  the blaze moved too fast. The police chief said there was no time for a citywide evacuation order  the citys own system went down in the midst of a partial order.Some regions of Paradise were not told to evacuate until hours after the blaze had burned through. Resident Keri Bush said her home security cameras showed the house burned by fire roughly two hours before the 4:17 p.m. order to evacuate came through.California has experienced unprecedented destruction from wildfires over the last two years, which has highlighted major flaws in the emergency alert systems, including a failure to use the latest technology to broadcast Amber Alert-style warnings on cellphones ahead of deadly disasters.The Sonoma County Sheriffs Office decided not to send a blanket alert over the federal Wireless Emergency Alert system as the Tubbs Fire leaped from wildlands into Santa Rosa last year. Many people were caught unaware about the fires path until they were at risk; some were awakened when the flames were on their doorsteps. At least 22 people died.When the Woolsey Fire swept into Malibu last month, many of the citys residents said they received no warning when the blaze moved into their neighborhoods. Some of them complained to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, demanding that officials come up with a better emergency notification system.At this weeks legislative hearing, Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) said only 45 of Californias 58 counties have signed on to a wireless emergency alert system that is tied to a federal warning program that transmits communications through cellphones and broadcasters when wildfires start.For close to four decades in various roles, Kirk Lonbom has traded in information  logging it, digging for it, codifying it, analyzing it, sharing it. Retiring as the state of Illinois chief information officer at the end of this month, hell leave behind a legacy of interagency communication built to carry on without him.Long before he was the states head of IT, Lonbom, 59, with a degree in criminal justice from Northern Illinois University, launched a career in public service in 1980 as a city police officer. After working in uniform, as a detective and undercover, he joined the Illinois State Police as an intelligence analyst. From there he ascended the chain of command to assistant chief of intelligence, collaborating with technology developers on the state polices first electronic intelligence system.Helping to manage and deliver other statewide systems, Lonbom became deputy CIO of the state police; then CIO and chief of technology for the Illinois Emergency Management Agency; then the states first full-time chief information security officer in the newly created Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology.He succeeded Hardik Bhatt in 2017 as Illinois CIO and acting secretary of technology.When he joined the state police in 2002, Lonbom said, his focus was on streamlining everything: investigative case management, criminal history systems, on-the-street officer communications and information-sharing across local and state agencies. Over time, the lack of communication between disparate agencies became harder to justify, and a partnership between the state police and Chicago Police Department started to change their culture into a more collaborative one.Prior to our partnership, we sort of operated separately, he said. Especially with criminal street gangs and other types of criminals moving around the state, there was a gap in information sharing, so we closed that gap and started sharing information, and its been going on ever since.Lonbom recalled Sept. 11, 2001 as a turning point for trust between agencies that werent previously sharing information. With that cultural shift in process, different agencies started to find common goals, like cybersecurity.Long-term, a lot of the challenge has been agencies working in silos across state government.  Some of that was probably by internal design, but it was really ineffective, he said. Through that process, the state suffered decades of technology debt and neglect. Systems werent getting upgraded, hardware was out of support and we werent delivering the services that we really needed to deliver. Since weve come together in the Department of Innovation and Technology, thats really changing.Lonbom said when he started as CISO in 2015, cybersecurity was merely reactive, with a small number of dedicated staff. He assembled a team from different agencies to draft a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, and since then, Lonbom estimates theyve quadrupled the states number of cybersecurity personnel and created one of the best state cybersecurity systems in the nation. He said theyve drastically raised cybersecurity awareness across the state, reduced billions of dollars in risk, established a proactive approach and got state employees to start thinking of security first.Over the past 15 months as CIO, Lonbom said his flagship project has been phasing in a single, new enterprise resource planning system to replace the hundreds of legacy systems Illinois has been using. By the end of 2018, he expects the new ERP system to be deployed across 80 percent of the states agencies.Hes also optimistic about the states hybrid cloud strategy, which is still in development.Given an overall push toward data-driven government and efficient use of tax dollars, Lonbom advised that one of the best things governments can do is collaborate, and focus on whats best for the taxpayer. To do that, he advised letting the private industry develop new technologies while investing public resources in project management and service.We dont normally have the budget to take huge risks, to step out in innovation. But through good partnerships with the private sector  we need to focus on data, on things that improve our capabilities and processes, Lonbom said. When we invest in our people, we need to invest in personnel that are really the ones who are going to bring the longest-lasting value, such as service managers, good project management, data scientists, enterprise architects. Government doesnt focus enough on those things, and we dont reach the success that we could if we invested more  in the folks that could really drive improvement in government.Lonbom didnt have a personal itinerary beyond retirement on Dec. 31, when Gov.-elect J.B. Pritzker will be prepping a new administration. But he said he was proud that he and his staff never lost sight of their duty while it was theirs.In my entire career, Ive been in kind of a protect-and-serve mode, and I dont see that changing much, he said.Duck is on the menu. Photo: Erinn Springer

So many new restaurants these days are what youd call elevated bars. You know, the ones mostly designed for drinking, but run by pedigreed chefs who cook food thats smarter than the usual chicken wings and bar burgers. Then there are those small, overachieving restaurants that strip down fine dining, keep the fine-tuned food, and make it all feel a bit more democratic: think Faun, the Finch, and the raved-about Olmsted. Add Oxalis to that list, too, as the now former pop-up bistro has settled into a home of its own in Prospect Heights.

Its nice just have a place we can finally set down roots and build the space weve been trying to create for the last couple years, says Oxalis chef-partner Nico Russell. Its a brand-new restaurant, but also one thats been a work in progress by Russell and partners Steven Wong and beverage director Piper Kristensen, who made drinks at the much-missed, boundary-pushing Booker & Dax as well as the Bearded Lady.

Over the course of a couple years, Oxalis popped up over 30 times around New York. Dinners sold out, and Russells precise, ambitious cooking clearly hit the right note with dishes like sasso chicken with rainbow chard and a caramelized mousse whey. To see another middle-tier but ambitious restaurant open is an exciting thing, too, when it can feel like almost everything opening these days is either a hyperexpensive, high-end tasting-menu spot or a fast-casual venture tailored for replication. New York is a great city for a few different things, theres a ton of high-end and a ton of low-end. Its hard because what defines the middle? Russell asks.

The bar rooms crispy pig trotter with mustard. Photo: Erinn Springer

Before striking out on his own, Russell worked at one of New Yorks most serious restaurants, Daniel, as well as at Frances lauded Mirazur. (Everything is sort of free-form, he says of the latter.) Those are both destination restaurants where deep pockets are very welcome; for whatever its worth, Mirazur was third on this years controversial Worlds 50 Best Restaurants list.

The restaurant is split into two spaces: a smooth, steely-looking barroom with cool blue tones and a big ceiling window, where you can order a la carte, and a 32-seat dining area with a set four-to-six-course menu. The bar menu has a couple handfuls of savory and sweet dishes that creatively cover categories youd expect: house-made brioche, cheddar toast with charred winter greens, and meaty options like crispy pig trotter with mustard, and beef shoulder with endive.

Our food is very subtle, its deceptively simple, says Russell. The chef points to the set menus cod dish, coming with whats simply called roasted potato and sorrel. The roasted potato, though, is actually roasted potato skin vichyssoise, and the cod is steamed and dressed in sorrel juice. We serve a crispy potato as a snack and use all the skins for the cod dish. Were trying to be conscious, too, and understanding that restaurants are a luxury for our society.

The food is, Russell says, 80 percent vegetables. Other dining room dishes include young carrots with chamomile; squash with burrata and flaxseed; and duck with sweet potato, fig, and yogurt. Kristensens abbreviated cocktail menu sticks to classics new and old with slight, undisruptive tweaks. Think an Old Fashioned made with beeswax and lanolin, a Sgroppino with bitter-lemon sorbet, and a Daiquiri that, to enhance the lime juices citrus, is also made with lime oil.

The barrooms beef shoulder with endive, horseradish, and black garlic. Photo: Erinn Springer

Goat milk, honey, and thyme from the dining room. Photo: Erinn Springer

The barrooms chicories, tarragon, and anchovy. Photo: Erinn Springer

The Old Fashioned with whiskey, sugar, beeswax, lanolin, and bitters. Photo: Erinn Springer

The dining room  Photo: Erinn Springer

 and the barroom. Photo: Erinn SpringerDublin distillery Teeling has named Maverick Drinks as its UK distributor which will be effective from the new year.

Having been founded in March 2015 by Jack and Stephen Teeling, the new distillery was the first in Dublin for more than 125 years.

The Irish whiskey brand now produces up to 500,000 litres of spirit every year with Alex Chasko acting as master distiller.

Maverick Drinks are best placed to evolve our business in the UK market for the years to come, said Jack Teeling.

The brands core range features three varieties; its Small Batch Whiskey, finished in Central American rum casks, its Single Grain which is aged in red wine casks and its Single Malt expression.

All three whiskies, alongside the full range of products from Teeling, will join the Maverick Drinks portfolio and are available to UK partners from 1 January 2019.

Michael Vachon, head of brand development at Maverick Drinks, added: "Teeling is exactly the kind of brand we are always looking for. It has everything - great design, extraordinary value, wonderful people, a real link to the community, and delicious, award-winning liquid.